HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-12-09 Bd Comm minutesItem Number: 5.a.
a
CITY OF IOWA CITY
"QR T-4 COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
December 9, 2025
Climate Action Commission: October 6
Attachments: Climate Action Commission: October 6
MINUTES
IOWA CITY CLIMATE ACTION COMMISSION
OCTOBER 6— 4:00 PM — FORMAL MEETING
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL
FINAL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Michael Anderson, Emma Bork, Jamie Gade, Ben Grimm, Zach Haralson,
Wim Murray, Michelle Sillman, Robert Traer
MEMBERS ABSENT: Nadja Krylov, Brinda Shetty, Angie Smith
STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Gardner, Diane Platte
OTHERS PRESENT: Grace Dillingham, Adam Swartzendruber
CALL TO ORDER:
Gade called the meeting to order at 4:00.
APPROVAL OF SEPTEMBER 8.2025 MINUTES:
Minutes were corrected to reflect accurate attendance. Anderson moved to approve the corrected
minutes, Sillman seconded, and the motion carried.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Action items from last meeting (staff): Commissioners were asked to provide prioritization scoring for
transportation items ahead of this October meeting. Because a discussion was deemed to be useful,
commissioners will also discuss scoring in today's meeting.
Recap of Climate Fest events: Gardner reported great attendance and participation. Tour of the solar
array/solar art show was an especially popular event. Gardner noted solar array tours at the airport
would help with public education ahead of future solar installations discussions.
Events:
• Volunteer Bike/Ped Count Data Share Out, Oct. 23, noon-1 p.m. on zoom
• Iowa Energy Summit, Oct. 29-30, Coralville Hyatt
o Student -built house will be featured.
• Other events in the community (commissioners): none
NEW BUSINESS:
Presentation and discussion on small scale nuclear: Grace Dillingham, Adam Swartzendruber, UI
engineering students
• Gardner introduced the topic by explaining that a small-scale nuclear reactor is not planned for
Iowa City or anywhere nearby. Rather, the presentation was being offered for information
sharing purposes only. It stemmed from a University of Iowa engineering and sustainability
course that reached out during the spring semester to solicit topics for student research
projects. Climate Action staff suggested information pertaining to small scale nuclear energy
Climate Action Commission
October 2025
Page 2 of 4
would be useful, given rising interest by various utilities in exploring the technology. Dillingham
and Swartzendruber took up the project and shared the results at the end of term, which
highlighted key differences from prior nuclear generation technology and a comparative cost
analysis to renewable energy sources. Staff invited the students to present the research to the
commission in recognition of their work.
• Dillingham and Swartzendruber presented their research as summarized on the slides in the
agenda packet.
• Haralson noted he appreciated the consideration of timeframe in the table shared in the slides
and asked for clarification on the table comparing solar with and without storage. Haralson also
asked about construction time for natural gas and Natrium facilities. Swartzendruber shared
that the first TerraPower unit was originally slated to take two years to construct but is now
slated to be completed in 2030 and that he could not speak to how long it takes to construct a
natural gas plant. Gardner asked if the 2-6 year estimate was just construction time or if it
include permitting time, and Swatzenruber confirmed it was construction only. Gardner shared
that adding planning and permitting to construction can increase the timeframe to 8-10 years.
• Bork noted similar costs for nuclear and solar to construct but a significantly longer payback
period for nuclear and asked what accounted for the difference. Swartzendruber answered
ongoing labor costs to operate a nuclear generation unit result in the longer payback period.
• Sillman asked about safety features for extreme weather. Dillingham noted that the Natrium
reactor is underground so less vulnerable to severe weather.
• Anderson asked if researchers explored politics and public perception of nuclear project in
Wyoming. Dillingham responded that Terra Power has partnered with another energy company
that possibly has more ties to Wyoming, but public perception was largely outside the scope of
this research project.
• Gade asked about number of jobs created. Swartzendruber reported a team of 5 engineers plus
40-50 technicians would operate the Natrium facility.
Prioritization scoring of Accelerating Iowa City's Climate Actions Plan
• Gardner summarized items from the transportation section and commissioners offered scoring
of action items relating to transportation.
• Gade asked if a reduction in parking tickets had been observed as a result of public transit being
incentivized (TI-1) through Fare Free service. Gardner noted there had been a decrease in use of
downtown parking facilities but would have to find out if a decrease in parking fines had also
occurred.
• Haralson asked if UIHC would be strong candidate for eco-driving campaign (TE-2).
• Gardner noted the City is currently undertaking a parking study (TI-1, TR-1).
• Gardner explained that the participation of a Climate Action Commission member on the Comp
Plan committee is the new interpretation of TR-2.
Angie Smith joined the meeting.
• Gardner noted an RFP to purchase more bus shelters was in the works (TPP-1). Haralson asked if
Fare Free has produced uniform increases in ridership and whether a new Transit Study, post -
Fare Free, may be needed. Gardner shared that some routes had experienced larger increases
Climate Action Commission
October 2025
Page 3 of 4
than others, and that staff were tracking that data. She shared a new transit study would most
likely not be undertaken until after the Transit Facility is built, around 10 years after the initial
transit study.
• Haralson asked if purchasing more electric buses fits into the transportation set of goals.
Gardner affirmed that bus purchasing falls under TCP-1, and City Council will soon be
considering purchasing Gillig electric buses. Gillig is the maker of all of the other buses owned by
the City. If approved, Gillig buses will probably be operating in the city in 2027.
o Murray asked if other cities have also had issues with ProTerra buses. Gardner affirmed
that to be the case and suggested that one of the functions of government is to
experiment with new technologies to support their emergence in the market.
• Gardner asked about possibilities for Potential Objective/Target (Metric) for Tier 1 Item: Partner
with stakeholders to promote green building construction and rehabilitation, sharing three
possible options from the agenda packet. Commissioners discussed possibilities. Gardner asked
if they would like time to consider the options and make a determination in the next meeting,
when it might be possible to do so alongside a transportation -related metric. The Commission
confirmed this preference.
PUBLIC COMMENT OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
• None
RECAP:
Confirmation of next meeting time and location:
• Monday, November 10, 4-5:30 p.m. Emma J. Harvat Hall
Actionable items for commission and staff:
• Gardner will compile transportation scores and provide a matrix along with Objectives/Targets.
ADJOURNMENT:
Sillman moved to adjourn, Haralson seconded, and the motion carried. Meeting adjourned 5:24.
3
Climate Action Commission
October 2025
Page 4 of 4
CLIMATE ACTION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2024-25
0
N
F-
r-
F-
N
W
A
Ul
Ql
CO
l0
0
NAME
TERM EXP.
A
N
A
U,
U,
U,
Ln
Ln
U,
U,
U
A
Michael
12/31/2025
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
Anderson
Emma Bork
12/31/2026
O/E
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
Michal Eynon-
12/31/2024
X
X
X
Lynch
John Fraser
12/31/2024
X
O/E
O/E
Jamie Gade
12/31/2025
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
Ben Grimm
10/31/2026
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
Zach Haralson
12/31/2025
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
Nadja Krylov
12/31/2026
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
Wim Murray
MiclAmerican
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
Rep
Michelle Sillman
12/31/20025
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Brinda Shetty
UI Rep
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Angie Smith
12/31/2025
O/E
X
X
X
X
I O/E
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
Gabe Sturdevant
12/31/2024
Robert Traer
12/31/2026
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
KEY: X = Present
0 = Absent
0/E = Absent/Excused
NM= No Meeting
* No longer on Commission
4
Item Number: 5.b.
I, CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
December 9, 2025
Climate Action Commission: November 10
Attachments: Climate Action Commission: November 10
MINUTES
IOWA CITY CLIMATE ACTION COMMISSION
NOVEMBER 10 — 4:00 PM — FORMAL MEETING
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL
FI NAL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Michael Anderson, Emma Bork, Jamie Gade, Zach Haralson, Nadja
Krylov, Wim Murray, Brinda Shetty, Michelle Sillman, Angie Smith,
Robert Traer
MEMBERS ABSENT: Ben Grimm
STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Gardner, Kendall McMullen, Diane Platte
OTHERS PRESENT: Audrey Wiedemeier, Katie Peterson
CALL TO ORDER:
Gade called the meeting to order at 4:01.
APPROVAL OF OCTOBER 6. 2025 MINUTES:
Anderson moved to approve the minutes, Haralson seconded, and the motion carried.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Action items from last meeting (staff): Gardner compiled transportation scores and provided a matrix
along with potential Objectives/Targets.
Gardner introduced Kendall McMullen as the newly hired Climate Action Specialist.
No upcoming events reported.
NEW BUSINESS:
Resilience Hub pilot project update: Audrey Wiedemeier, Iowa City Bike Library. Wiedemeier
summarized recent expansions to Bike Library programs and facilities.
• Working with Tim Dwight, 80 solar panels were installed on the facility roof. The system will be
turned on after the installation of bollards in front of electrical panels. The bollards will be
installed as part of a project to reduce asphalt and beautify the area in front of the building.
• A new mural serves as educational piece for water quality. It will be paired with 3,000-liter rain
barrel/rainwater harvesting system for rooftop runoff to serve as a bike washing station. They
are working with college of engineering students in a 2-semester project to boost water
pressure via pedaling a bike which will reduce or eliminate need for cleaning solvents for bike
washing.
• Future projects include adding a covered 16x18 bike parking area. Wiedemeier noted businesses
often ask the Bike Library for bike racks.
Climate Action Commission
November 2025
Page 2 of 5
• Other projects for 2026 include creating seating with raised beds, installing shade sails, installing
an archway sculpture by an artist out of Cedar Rapids to show "Hub" built out of recycled bike
parts. An unexpected indicator of success was contractors making personal donations to capital
campaign.
• Traer asked if the Bike Library had a role in the Lower City Park bike tool installation.
Wiedemeier answered no and Gardner affirmed the fix it station was installed by the City.
• Gardner noted the Bike Library has been a fantastic Resilience Hub partner, highlighting the
outreach made possible by the Resilience Hub hangout during Climate Fest.
• Commissioners thanked Wiedemeier and praised Bike Library efforts, voicing support for
continuing the Resilience Hub partnership.
Prioritization scoring of Accelerating Iowa City's Climate Actions Plan
• For the purpose of the transportation metrics discussion, Gardner proposed and commissioners
approved refinements of the wording of TR-2 and TCP-1 to reflect actions already completed.
o Updated TR-2 from "Require climate change analysis for new subdivisions and
rezonings" to "Include climate change considerations in comprehensive plan update and
implement in new subdivisions and rezonings
o Updated TCP-1 from "Establish an electric and fuel -efficient vehicle purchasing policy"
to "Advance the electric and fuel -efficient vehicle purchasing strategy."
• Commissioners discussed finalization of potential metrics for action items related to buildings.
Michelle Sillman joined the meeting.
• Anderson asked by what mechanism have builders gotten HERS ratings. Gardner described the
grant program for builders which has incentivized obtaining HERS ratings.
• Shetty asked for clarification whether the objective is designed that 40% of buildings would get
a 52 or better HERS rating or 40% of buildings would get a HERS rating. Gardner noted it could
be defined either way; most builders who submit an application for a HERS rating are motivated
to score 52 or better.
• Krylov asked if the builder community has its own momentum for continuing green practices.
Gardner speculated that few would be getting HERS ratings without the City program, though
the hope is that someday participation would be sustained by market forces.
• Anderson asked about a parallel incentive for remodelers. Gardner described PEARL, a program
like HERS but for remodels. The City has a contact within the PEARL organization, and a
presentation for the area remodelers association suggested that there is interest. With PEARL,
the remodeler or realtor self -reports energy upgrades to the building, as opposed to the
external audit process for HERS ratings. Because of this, defining targeted interventions would
likely be needed, i.e. "If you put in a heat pump (or solar panels or other specific energy
efficiency upgrade), the City will pay for the PEARL rating." Gardner summarized with PEARL,
there are more unknowns, but potential meaningful opportunities.
• Haralson described a logical order of focusing on PEARL first and then engaging realtors in both
HERS and PEARL training later.
• Bork asked if PEARL would apply to apartments too. Gardner answered staff did not yet know
enough about the program to be able to answer.
Climate Action Commission
November 2025
Page 3 of 5
• Smith asked what types of homes are getting HERS ratings. Gardner reported HERS applies to
single family homes, town homes, and duplexes and shared that staff have been tracking the
return on City's investment as well as the data benefits. Gardner offered to provide
commissioners with a more detailed report on the HERS program.
• Krylov asked if efficiency investments equate to a higher selling price the way kitchen remodels
do. Gardner shared that conversations with builders and realtors suggest that historically this
has not been the case and that of the values of the rating program is making energy systems
more visible and valued by purchasers.
• Gade wondered if shifting to a target related to PEARL would mean letting go of something with
HERS. Gardner noted that the HERS program would continue as is. The PEARL program likely
would be designed in 2026 and would be ready to implement in 2027.
• Traer asked for additional details about who is served by each program. HERS applies to new
construction, while PEARL applies to existing homes. The community's housing stock includes
more existing homes than newly built homes, and existing homes are often more affordable.
• Krylov commented there is not much of a model for solar as resilience instead of solar as
energy -savings. Gardner noted the City was recently awarded a grant for mobile solar, and the
Student Build house for this year is going to be net zero.
• Commissioners decided to pursue as the 2026 target action "Initiate program for remodelers
similar to HERS program for new construction."
Finalization of potential metrics for action items related to transportation
• Smith asked if the university would be the large employer for the target "Partner with area
employer to install EV charging." Gardner shared that it would be unusual for a city grant to go
to a state institution such as the university and offered to learn if this was simply a practice or a
formal prohibition. She suggested other possible area employers who might be good candidates
included Proctor and Gamble, as they were known to draw employees from surrounding
communities. She shared that area employment data suggests 40,000 commuters come to Iowa
City from outside the city daily.
• Gade and Shetty expressed interest in Targets 1 and 3: expand public EV charging outside of
downtown ramps and initiate EV ambassador group that connects local EV owners with each
other and interested residents.
• Haralson asked if DC Fast Charging might be a possibility under Target 1.
o Gardner noted price differences: a data -collecting Level 2 charger costs $10,000 but a
DC Fast Charger generally costs $50,000-80,000 and infrastructure upgrades may be
needed beyond the equipment costs. DC Fast Charging is more likely than Level 2
charging to be serving people not from the community who are passing through quickly
and generally regarded more suitable for siting along the interstate for that reason.
• Bork asked for clarification on the quantities attached to the targets, and Gardner explained.
o Anderson voiced support for creating a community of EV ambassadors.
• Gade asked if the commission chose Target 3 but the Volkswagen settlement funding became
available would the City still pursue grant funding for public chargers at parks and the airport.
Gardner shared that would likely be the case but that choosing it as a target could make a
stronger case for pursuing the grant and could help strengthen the application.
Climate Action Commission
November 2025
Page 4 of 5
o Gardner offered that Target 3 could be structured as a soft launch for late in the year,
tied to Climate Fest. Target 1 could be adopted in 2026, Target 3 could be researched in
2026 and launched more formally in 2027. Traer and Haralson voiced support for this
idea.
• Bork asked what an EV ambassador group would look like, and Gardner described several
possibilities, including a coordinated social media page to share resources and ideas and/or a
group with regular in person meetings to connect and plan events.
• Consensus formed around focusing Target 1 this year and doing setup for Target 3.
• Krylov spoke to non-EV-related transportation emission reduction strategies, and Gardner
affirmed that this effort was meant to attach a target to the top priority item but that efforts
such as Bike to Work Week outreach and Fare Free engagement would continue, as would the
other action items.
Preliminary review and scoring of action items related to adaptation was shifted to the December
meeting due to time constraints.
Commissioners agreed to a plan to host future meetings in the City Managers conference room rather
than Council Chambers.
PUBLIC COMMENT OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
• None
RECAP:
Confirmation of next meeting time and location:
• Monday, Dec. 1, 4-5:30 p.m. Emma J. Harvat Hall
Actionable items for commission and staff:
• Commissioners will consider potential nominees for chair and vice chair for next meeting.
• Gardner will work with the Climate Action Analysts on preparing a HERS program report for
February meeting.
ADJOURNMENT:
Shetty moved to adjourn, Smith seconded, and the motion carried. Meeting adjourned 5:26.
!9
Climate Action Commission
November 2025
Page 5 of 5
CLIMATE ACTION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2024-25
N
W
A
V1
Ql
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w
F-
NAME
TERM EXP.
F-`
N
N
Q1
W
W
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N
A
co
U
N
N
A
A
U,
U,
U,
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U,
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to
cn
Michael
12/31/2025
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
Anderson
Emma Bork
12/31/2026
O/E
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
Michal Eynon-
12/31/2024
X
X
Lynch
John Fraser
12/31/2024
O/E
O/E
Jamie Gade
12/31/2025
O/E
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
Ben Grimm
10/31/2026
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
O/E
Zach Haralson
12/31/2025
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
Nadja Krylov
12/31/2026
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
Wim Murray
MiclAmerican
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
Rep
Michelle Sillman
12/31/20025
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Brinda Shetty
UI Rep
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Angie Smith
12/31/2025
X
X
I X
X
I O/E
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
Gabe Sturdevant
12/31/2024
O/E
X
Robert Traer
12/31/2026
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
KEY: X = Present
0 = Absent
0/E = Absent/Excused
NM= No Meeting
* No longer on Commission
Item Number: 5.c.
a
CITY OF IOWA CITY
"QR T-4 COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
December 9, 2025
Historic Preservation Commission: October 9
Attachments: Historic Preservation Commission: October 9
MINUTES APPROVED
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
OCTOBER 9, 2025 —5:30 PM —FORMAL MEETING
E M M A J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Margaret Beck, Kevin Burford, Austin Curfman, Andrew Lewis, Deanna
Thomann, Nicole Villanueva, Frank Wagner
MEMBERS ABSENT: Carl Brown, Ryan Russell
STAFF PRESENT: Jessica Bristow, Anne Russett
OTHERS PRESENT: Andy Martin, Frank Durham, Alex Andino
CALL TO ORDER:
Lewis called the meeting to order at 5:30 p m.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
CONSENT AGENDA — CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS:
HPC25-0054: 622 North Van Buren Street - Brown Street Historic District (rear deck demolition and
door to window alteration):
Bristow stated she emailed everyone about how a consent agenda works. This project will not be
presented in order to keep things moving. This is a project where it complies with the guidelines
completely, so we can answer any questions but otherwise the Commission will make a motion,
discuss if needed, and then vote.
MOTION: Thomann moves to approve a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 622 North Van
Buren Street, as presented in the staff report, which includes the removal of the rear deck and staircase
and the replacement of the associated door with a window.
Villanueva seconds the motion.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0.
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS:
HPC25-0030: 317 Fairchild Street- North side Historic District (metal roof replacement and Yankee
gutter removal):
Russett stated this is a proposed roof replacement project on a house that was built between 1907 and
1912 and incorporates aspects of the Queen Anne style and the American Foursquare style. This
project is a replacement of a deteriorated metal roof with architectural asphalt shingles and the removal
of internal gutters and their replacement with external gutters. Russett shared some photographs to
show the deterioration of the roof.
In terms of the guidelines, the guidelines recommend repairing original built in gutters but there is an
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
OCTOBER 9, 2025
Page 2 of 16
exception in the guidelines to remove original gutters that are unable to be repaired. In terms of mass
and roof lines, the guidelines recommend preserving historic trim, and in terms of metal roofs they are
recommended to be repaired, but on a case by case basis, the Commission can consider their removal
and replacement with an approved alternative material due to deterioration, which is the case here that
the roof was determined to be too deteriorated to be repaired by Pardekooper Construction and they
recommend replacement. Mr. Pardekooper has experience painting and repairing metal roofs, but he
took a look at the roof and said it was too far gone to repair. Russett noted the removal of metal roofs
will remove the internal gutters, which cannot be constructed in the same way with new roofing
materials, even true for a new standing seam metal roof. The interior gutters on the rear portion of the
house will be removed with the roof material and external gutters would be installed and staff finds that
the removal of the internal gutters on the rear projection does not impact the historic character of the
house. The internal gutters on the east projecting bay and front porch will not be removed.
Staff recommends approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 317 Fairchild, which
includes the replacement of a metal roof with architectural asphalt shingles and the removal of the
internal gutters on the rear of the house through the use of an exception.
MOTION: Wagner moves to approve for a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 317 Fairchild
Street, as presented in the staff report, which includes the replacement of a metal roof with architectural
asphalt shingles and removal of the internal gutters on the rear of the house through the use of an
exception to the guidelines to allow the removal of the internal gutters.
Villanueva seconded the motion.
Thomann understands these are old roofs and they get beyond repair, but it does make her sad and
she feels like a lot of these gutters could be repaired. She acknowledged they are going to a different
material, so this gutter is not going to function the way it may be originally did, but it makes her
disappointed. However, because staff is recommending approval, she is comfortable with that.
Burford stated he is happy that it's in the rear of the of the property.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0.
HPC25-0050: 721 Grant St - Longfellow Historic District (rear demolition and new addition):
Bristow stated this house is a bungalow and a couple of years ago they had gone through an approval
process for an addition on the back of the house. The house was built in 1923 as a side gabled roof
with a shed roof dormer on the front. On the back, is a similar shed roof dormer as well as an addition
from about 1960 with an entryway to that area that's been enclosed. The plan is to remove both the
addition and the enclosed entryway and to create a new addition on the back of the house with a stoop
and step that is no longer enclosed. Bristow noted one of the main points with this particular project is
they have a very large old oak tree, and similar to the previous project that was approved, the goal is to
avoid disturbing the roots of the tree and not damage it so that it would have to come down. Therefore,
this addition will not have a typical foundation and instead it will be constructed on helical piers that will
be screwed into the ground, and that basically distributes the weight through the piers and helps to
avoid damaging the roots. Bristow stated one of the exceptions that was approved in the past, that staff
recommends approving here as well, is to create a foundation that appears similar to the house instead
of matching the foundation on the house, and that's to protect the oak tree.
Bristow shared images of the house plan and the portion that will be removed and the new addition.
She noted it is basically a kitchen addition with a couple pairs of windows on the west wall and a couple
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
OCTOBER 9, 2025
Page 3 of 16
pairs of windows and a door on the north wall, as well as the stoop and step. The roof will tie into the
down slope of the rear portion of the gable and it'll come up just a little higher on the wall of the dormer
than the existing addition, but it will match the slope of the dormer roof above. Bristow pointed out the
stoop and step are not covered by the roof, the roof overhang is 2' and the stoop and step will project
beyond that. Bristow shared the site plan details and elevations noting a big two car garage and that all
of the area up against the house is paved. Bristow pointed out in the staff report that most of the
windows are individual on this house, the front pair is a pair of windows which makes it more
architecturally significant. On the south side of the addition they have proposed to not have any
windows, on the west facing wall they have proposed two pairs of windows and will retain the window in
the back wall of the house. On the north elevation they can see the stoop and step, the entry door and
one of the pairs of windows, and again on the south wall of the new addition they're not proposing any
windows.
Bristow stated there are numerous guidelines that relate to this project, there are guidelines about the
stoop and step and the baluster and handrails, there are guidelines about adding new door openings
and trimming them to match the existing ones and also there is a guideline about the material for doors,
and typically they don't approve metal doors, they approve either a wood door or a fiberglass door that
could be painted in replacement for wood. Mass and roof line guidelines recommend preserving the
original roof pitches and spans which will be preserved in this case and preserving the original walls
and vertical corners that define the massing of a building, which will also be preserved here. For siding
the applicant has proposed a cement board or LP and the house has mitered corners in the siding so
staff worked with them so that their drawings include aligning the lap and the addition will also have
those mitered corners. Regarding windows the guidelines recommend matching the overall
appearance of the historic windows, which is what the applicant has proposed, adding new windows in
a location that's consistent, using wood or metal clad wood, and then there is a guideline about the
simulated divided lights. Matching key horizontal lines in the building is one guideline that is reviewed in
additions and they look at the eave line, window heads, windowsills, etc.
Bristow shared more guidelines about additions, making sure that the wall areas and the roof pitches
and spans are all consistent with the existing building. In this case the addition's roof line will match the
slope of the dormer above. Constructing roof overhangs and soffits and eaves so that they match. She
stated it is noted that one of the things that is disallowed is leaving large expanses of wall surface
uninterrupted by windows and doors and that's because a lot of modern homes have windows on the
back and in the front and nothing on the side, but that is not the case in a historic house, historic
houses have windows on all sides in order to take advantage of natural light, being able to look across
backyards, and in order to avoid having a large expanse of wall that is completely unadorned.
Bristow stated there are two exceptions they need to utilize for this addition, and they were both also
used for the previous approval. First is the one about foundations, where it's acceptable just to match
the color and in this case they would be using a material to make a fake stucco to be similar to the
stucco foundation on the house. The other exception allows for additions on the back of a house to not
necessarily replicate all of the trim details but would still expect them to have the basic details like frieze
boards at the top of the wall. However, this house actually has brackets and they're not proposing to
add that here because it is just a one story addition and the brackets seen on the house are up on the
main roof and on the dormers. Staff does recommend moving the north wall in so that the stoop
terminates before the corner, partly because of the big two car garage and a bunch of pavement, and
that the pavement goes right up to the house, but also to avoid having that stoop and step project
beyond the side of the house. Also, currently the drawings show the eave height of the addition is
higher than the eave height on the main roof so staff would recommend that it was dropped slightly so
that the eave fits with the window head and everything is similar to what is on the main house. Staff
also recommends that the south wall incorporates a window or two. Bristow also noted all of the
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windows that are shown on the addition are paired windows and on the house they only have one
paired window on the front, which is architecturally significant, but the rest of the house is all individual
windows, so staff would recommend that that window patterning is what is matched in the addition to
comply with the guidelines.
Bristow stated the staff recommendation includes conditions that would alter the project to comply with
the guidelines so the Commission can pick and choose or do however they wish with those conditions.
Andy Martin spoke as the contractor on the job and admittedly it may not be the way things were done
150 years ago or whatever, but the floor plan is driven by the internal workings of the house. So in
order to get the space they needed in the new kitchen they had to push that window over towards the
driveway side and then also that's the reason they don't have windows on the south wall, because it
would really disrupt the floor plan and the way they intend to use the house. Martin also noted the new
addition will stick out another foot or two from what the old addition but from the street they're not going
to see this addition and that's why they were hoping to get some leniency on this, again it will greatly
affect the way they can use their home and the floor plan that they've laid out. Martin stated he doesn't
think it's going to affect the character of the neighborhood, all the neighbors directly to the south will be
able to see that, but they've been looking at that view for 65 years or whatever and have seen an
addition with no windows on it, so it's not going to be a major change for them. It'll actually be an
upgrade because there'll be a nicer space, the siding will look better and the structure will be nicer, but
it won't severely impact what they're used to seeing.
Lewis asked if putting a window on the south side, to not have just a blank wall, how would that
influence how they use the space. Martin confirmed it would due to the way the kitchen is laid out. If
they were to put a window in there, they would have to move the stove, and that would probably affect
the island and would take away some cabinet space.
MOTION: Beck moves to approve a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 721 Grant Street as
presented in the staff report through the use of exceptions to the guidelines for the foundation and
simplified trim with the following conditions:
• The north wall is set in so that the stoop and step terminate before the corner of the house.
• The eave height is lowered to match the house.
• Windows are added to the south wall of the addition.
• Windows are revised to reflect the window patterning on the historic house.
• Window and door product information is submitted for review.
Villaneuva seconded the motion.
Thomann noted they've had projects that have used a fake window before
Villanueva stated to her it is not that big of a deal if that south wall doesn't have a window, if it's
possible to do fake window, she is all for it but out of all these adjustments that one is very low on the
list.
Burford stated it is offset by the fact that there would no longer be the two skylights, which are not
historic and not terribly esthetic, so there's a tradeoff there.
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Wagner noted going back to the number of windows, there are now four windows and if they reduce the
two on the west side to one each, down to two total, and put one on the south side, they'd have three
windows instead of four, which would free up wall space for cabinets. He noted the concern about what
is seen from the street, that eave height in the back might not be such a big deal to match the house,
because they really might not see but the window patterning, and the window on the south wall, he
thinks they'd want to have a window in the south wall for morning light, especially since they are getting
rid of the ones that are in the ceiling.
Lewis agrees that it's not super visible from the street and they make a lot of judgments based off of
that. He questions the stoop and step and is there anything in the guidelines that says the stoop and
step must be set or is this just a concern of visibility. Bristow noted generally if they have an addition,
they want the whole thing set back so that they aren't seeing a tiny portion of it projecting beyond the
house. She can think of an addition on College Street that was approved, but that was case where
there was no driveway and they had an alley garage, but that addition was set in maybe 18 inches and
then they had a stoop and step that projected out. She acknowledged they have approved additions or
stoop and steps that project in the past. Lewis stated as long as the main part of the addition is set in,
but the stoop and step aren't, and if it doesn't actually violate the guidelines, it's okay.
Villanueva noted the concern would be when they walk past it, what would they see. For her it wouldn't
bother her if she was walking past and saw a stoop and step hanging out a little bit.
Thomann asked what balustrade or railing would they see from the side. Bristow stated it would look
just like any stoop and step that is approved, the railing would need to follow the guidelines and under
the stoop there would be a post aligned with the railing post above. Thomann asked if there would be a
roof covering. Bristow noted on the drawing they're putting on the new addition a 2' overhang to match
the main one on the house so it would cover a portion, but it won't cover the whole stoop and step.
Villanueva asked if they did not approve the exception, would the stoop and step have to be 2' smaller.
Bristow stated they would have to move the wall in 2' because code wise they couldn't make the stoop
smaller.
Bristow stated typically, they would require a post in the railing, even though it is not drawn that way,
and they would also require that there's a corresponding post below that, and the space would be
enclosed with skirting, which is required to match the skirting on the front of the house. Those are all
parts of the guidelines that go with stoops and steps.
Lewis stated then the major concern would be the window on the south side of the house, and the
windows overall because one of the conditions is to make them single windows instead of twin
windows.
The Commission discussed the conditions on the motion.
Beck amends the previous motion to remove the first two conditions.
AMENDED MOTION: Beck moves to approve a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 721
Grant Street as presented in the staff report through the use of exceptions to the guidelines for the
foundation and simplified trim with the following conditions:
Windows are added to the south wall of the addition.
Windows are revised to reflect the window patterning on the historic house.
Window and door product information is submitted for review.
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Villanueva seconds the amended motion.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0.
HPC25-0056: 415 Clark Street- Clark Street Conservation District (new aaraae):
Bristow sated this is a regency style home, which is actually very rare in Iowa City, it has a low,
moderate hipped roof. It has quoins, which historically would be stone and are meant to reinforce the
corners but here it's just for style. There's lap siding below a smooth pseudo stucco kind of finish on the
second floor. On the upper level there are some arched wall dormers, two on each wall all the way
around the house, and the entryway has a little copper hood. This house does have a historic garage
that was built at the same time, but it's just a small one car garage, and the applicant is wanting a larger
garage. Bristow explained it is not possible to expand the existing attached garage to the north,
because the property line is much closer than the fence that is there. She stated they always in
preservation like to try to keep the historic garage if possible, so the proposal is to leave it and retain it
as a garage and to build a second garage in the backyard.
In 2005 the Commission approved an addition, it has a similar hipped roof and while the house has a
very small eave overhang which is very indicative of this Regency style, the addition has a little bit
larger overhang because they like to build overhangs in modern properties for shade and to prevent as
much water from running down the wall.
The plan is to add a curb cut and driveway that goes along the south side of the property and to place a
garage in the back corner of the property. Bristow stated they typically don't necessarily approve a
second curb cut on a property and tend to prefer to have one or have a garage entered off an alley.
However, in this location there is no alley and the only way to save the existing garage is to add a
second curb cut. Bristow also noted putting the garage in the back corner of the property will minimize
its impact on the neighborhood as it's a large lot. The proposal is a two story garage, they plan to have
a recreation space above, the bump out on the north side is where the stairs are to the upper level. The
garage will include wall dormers to match the house. She stated it has a complicated roof, with the
bump out, but staff will support that design decision because it helps minimize the size of everything
and won't compete with the house. Bristow shared the rendering of the garage noting a very wide eave
overhang shown so staff does recommend that it is reduced, not to the point where it matches the lack
of overhang on the house, but at least reducing it down so that it's similar to the other addition, or even
smaller, which will help with the gutter situation and the downspouts and how they come out. The
existing historic garage has a flat roof with a terrace on it, which is an alteration, the new garage will be
sitting down a little bit lower than the house which helps minimize its presence. They've included three
wall dormers on the front facade of the garage, which is more complicated than the house, which only
has two, so part of the recommendation is to reduce it so that they're not competing with the house and
making something that's more elaborate.
The products they will be using for the new garage are a smooth Hardie board siding, the lap would
match the house, which is fairly wide, it would be mitered at the corners. They have chosen an
overhead door configuration that is generally approved. It would have composite overlay squared
windows, the windows are on this project are a vinyl window and because this is a conservation district,
there is an exception to the guidelines to allow a vinyl window on an outbuilding in a conservation
district. Bristow stated one of the things included on the back of the garage are two pairs of sliding
windows and sliding windows are actually a modern window type that is disallowed in the guidelines.
Also, on the drawings they have shown a door that looks like a craftsman door and that's not
considered appropriate for a Regency style home, it's more in the Colonial Revival style of architecture.
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Bristow shared some examples from a reference book of some typical Colonial Revival styles and what
staff would probably recommend, a crossbuck pattern in the lower portion for a garage. Another thing
they typically approve for garages is a basic historic back door, which is a half-light two panel door, and
that is very similar to what they are proposing, only this would be glass with two panels instead of one.
The guidelines state matching the trim, substituting wood, and the same with the siding.
Regarding the site and landscaping and the parking and curb cut it talks about making sure that they're
parking back behind the house and this project would comply with these guidelines. The second curb
cut is the only thing that's not something normally approved but is recommended here. Bristow did
point out there is a limit on how wide a driveway can be until back behind the house, a maximum of 8'
to 10' wide. Windows are generally relatively small and rectangular, but in this case they're making
something that's more similar to a carriage house, and so they're matching the windows on the house.
Again, staff would like to see the front facade reduced to just two wall dormers instead of three, if they
wanted more light staff would approve a skylight on the garage. Also, the guidelines disallow the use of
modern window types so staff recommends that on that west side those two bands of sliding windows
are changed to either the typical rectangular garage window, which could be fixed or operable,
depending on if they want, or just match the other windows. Staff would also need to approve the vinyl
windows through an exception, and that exception is written into the guidelines. Staff recommends
reducing the eave overhang to 1' or so instead of what they have and also changing the passage door
from a craftsman door to more suitable Colonial Revival door.
Staff recommends approval a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 415 Clark Street as
presented in the staff report with the following conditions:
• The vinyl -clad windows are approved through an exception to the guidelines.
• The west -facing windows are revised to windows that comply with the guidelines.
• The eave is revised to a 1' overhang and reduced to two dormers in the front fagade.
• The passage door is revised to a Colonial Revival Style.
Burford asked what the advantage of vinyl clad windows is it simply cost. Bristow replied, initial cost
because they wouldn't last as long.
Thomann noted they don't consider the interior but is the top space a recreational area or is this an
accessory dwelling unit. Bristow stated they have not given any indication that they are going to do an
accessory dwelling unit, but they probably could and go through a zoning code review to do so.
MOTION: Wagner recommends approval a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 415 Clark
Street as presented in the staff report with the following conditions:
• The vinyl -clad windows are approved through an exception to the guidelines.
• The west -facing windows are revised to windows that comply with the guidelines.
• The eave is revised to a 1' overhang and reduced to two dormers in the front fagade.
• The passage door is revised to a Colonial Revival Style.
Burford seconded the motion.
Villanueva stated this house was in the Parade of Homes a few years ago and it was gorgeous on the
inside.
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Lewis noted the front of the house has two dormers and a circular window, would it be possible to
mimic that in the new garage, they would still get three windows but only the two dormers. Bristow
thinks they would not want that because they would want it to be simpler than the house. The staff
recommendation is since they have a very large elaborate carriage house to simplify it so that it avoids
competing with the house. The guidelines state to always have the garage or carriage house to be
subordinate to the house.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0.
HPC25-0060: 332 North Johnson Street - Goosetown/Horace Mann Conservation District (rear porch
demolition and new addition):
Bristow stated this is a very old house built in the 1880s and originally it was just a portion of the size it
is now, it was basically what was called a hall and parlor type of house, it had two rooms and that's it.
They added an addition behind the north half at an unknown date, and then before 1899 they added
another addition per the Sanborn Historic Fire Insurance Maps, a very Victorian addition. They basically
had a very simple Goosetown cottage, and they added a hip roof Victorian addition to it. On the back of
the house there used to be an open area that was an open porch but that was enclosed by 1899, and
then someone added a poorly constructed open porch on the end of that and didn't have proper
support for the columns, and the columns aren't really the right style, etc. Bristow stated this house is
clad in asbestos siding, and after staff got further photos to review, she thinks that it might be the case
where this house actually does not have siding under the asbestos, which would be rare. She noted the
reason for that thinking is because of the relationship between the trim and the asbestos, the trim still
projects beyond the asbestos, similar to the way it would with the original siding, meaning that maybe
there's not room for siding under there. Bristow noted with an addition they always like to match the
historic siding on the house, and they will be removing some of the asbestos in order to do this addition,
so staff has the general recommendation to match the historic siding however, if there is none, then
they would just follow the guidelines, which ask for a three to five inch lap siding, and corner boards
and typical trim. They would probably be able to tell what was on the house once they see the nailing
pattern and stuff underneath, it could have been a shingle siding or something and maybe that's why
they removed it, if they did.
Bristow stated they are changing the layout, removing a wall and that porch, and expanding to make it
into a sunroom with a new roof over the whole thing. The sunroom would have two windows on each
side and a passage door and the addition would have a flat roof matching the eave height of the
existing roofs.
This is again the same guidelines as for other additions. Of note is the fact that this was enclosed by
1899 and there is a historic corner of the house still there, typically with an addition they are looking at
retaining those corners and will set the addition in. However, to do that on such a small house would
mean that they would have to shift the whole hallway over and lose important space on the inside, so
staff does recommend that guideline about retaining the corner in this case is allowed to not be
complied with, basically because it is such a small space. Regarding the guidelines about siding and
windows Bristow reiterated the analysis on this is basically allowing it to align with the corner, knowing
that they will match a historic siding if they can, and use a three to five inch lap siding if there is none.
Also, instead of trying to match the existing roofs staff is recommending a flat roof on this addition
which will allow all of the roofs to drain out towards the east. This house has individual windows, the
Victorian addition has some paired windows on the front, because this is very small house and they're
creating a sunroom, staff does recommend that they allow the windows on each side of that sunroom to
be paired. The applicants originally had a craftsman door but staff recommends a half-light, two panel,
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
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basic door and they have revised their drawings to show that.
Staff recommends approval of a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 332 North Johnson
Street, as presented in the staff report, with the following conditions:
The door is revised as a half-light door.
The flat roof is membrane is gray.
The trim condition matches the existing house.
Bristow noted the top condition has already been met, so they don't need to include that condition to
revise the door.
Villanueva asked why the roof is gray. Bristow explained this house has some shingles and some
metal roof. It's in a conservation district and they don't review changing roofs in conservation districts.
The owners do plan to re -roof the entire house but that's not something that staff would review because
it's a conservation district. For the new roof they're using a roof membrane that comes most often in a
white color, and staff doesn't recommend using white because of how reflective it is and how it stands
out, instead recommending using either a gray to match what a metal roof would look like, or black
because it tends to not draw attention to itself.
MOTION: Burford recommends approval of a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 332
North Johnson Street, as presented in the staff report, with the following conditions:
The door is revised as a half-light door.
The flat roof is membrane is gray.
The trim condition matches the existing house.
Villaneuva seconded the motion.
Lewis noted a concern with saying it's small so therefore let's not follow a guideline.
Burford noted the additional windows seem appropriate for a sunroom, it makes sense.
Villanueva likes that it's going to be a sunroom but is still following the guidelines of adding the more
historic windows.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0.
HPC25-0064: 409 South Summit Street - Summit Street Historic District (roof cladding replacement and
Yankee Gutter removal):
Bristow stated this is a Victorian house built in the early 1890s with a front porch that wraps around and
a high gable roof. Similar to the earlier project, they have what's basically called a Yankee gutter which
is a gutter that is built out of the metal roof material in the slope of the roof. If they were to replace this
roof with modern materials the only way that they could make this kind of gutter would be a very labor
intensive stainless steel, hand soldered, welded together pieces and it would be very expensive and
complicated, therefore staff has determined that it's not possible to make a Yankee gutter in modern
roofing materials that's cost effective anymore. In addition to the Yankee gutter, which is all on the
historic portion of this home, this project is also about the crown molding that is at the eave edge.
Bristow also pointed out they do have an internal gutter on the flat roof of the front porch, but that is a
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more traditional internal gutter that can be repaired, they can replace the pans or put a membrane roof
over them as a temporary, or short life span repair. On the back of this house is a two story flat roof
addition which ties in with some of the metal roof. Staff has been working with this owner for quite a few
years, tracking down people who might be able to repair or even replace this roof with a matching
material and it was just completely not cost effective. Bristow shared photos of the house and roof and
noted the damage and deterioration over time as the water gets in and has been running into the roof
framing and into the crown molding and the fascia. This project proposes to retain the porch roof
gutters per the guidelines.
Again, this is a situation where they do not have the option of maintaining metal roofs rather than
replacing them. All of these roofs were wood shingles before the metal roofs became popular and were
used so Bristow is sure they're going to find multiple layers of wood shingles under this metal roof when
they take it off. The existence of the wood shingles is part of the reason why they do allow an asphalt
shingle roof as a replacement for a metal roof, and that is what is proposed here. The applicant
proposed adding some roof vents in the gable end but staff recommended against that as the main
gables have fish scale shingle, so the contractor is going to put vents in the slope of the roof instead.
The guidelines state to repair historic wood elements rather than replace them and only replace any
damaged wood with new or salvaged wood components that match. It is only allowed to substitute a
material if it can be worked like wood and painted, and it is disallowed to remove historic wood
elements such as trim, porches and cornices and decorative elements. Bristow stated it's disallowed in
the guidelines to take off the cornice or the brackets or the crown molding unless it is deteriorated
beyond repair and replaced with matching material. It is also disallowed to substitute a material in place
of wood that does not retain the appearance, function and paint ability of the original wood.
The owners want to use the architectural asphalt shingles, staff would recommend a brown or gray to
be similar to a wood roof. Staff finds that removing the internal gutter on the main roof will not impact
the historic character of the home, because it is just a gutter in the slope of the roof, it's not something
with an elaborate eave condition creating an internal gutter, and also because it's not possible to make
a new roof with that same type of gutter. Staff does find that the applicant requesting to remove all of
the crown molding and replace it with an Azek material that is a similar profile would not comply with
the guidelines, and they should retain the historic crown where it's not deteriorated, and what does
need to be replaced, replace it with a wood that matches the same profile.
Staff recommends approval of a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 409 South Summit
Street, as presented in the staff report, with the following conditions:
The roof shingle is a brown or gray, and the porch roof membrane is gray.
The crown molding removal is limited to the deteriorated portions and is replaced with wood to
match.
Burford stated with the crown molding, to match it can be difficult, when he did his own house, they had
to custom make molding to fit. Bristow acknowledged the contractors had reached out about this. First
of all, they can determine what the existing profile is using a contour gauge and staff also know of a
number of carpenters and contractors in town who have made replacement molding for various houses,
some of them have machines and the knives that cut them set up to do that, but they can also make
knives that could make that molding. Staff is confident that they can find someone who could do it right.
Burford noted his concern was due to how hard it is to find craftsmen to repair metal roofs and was it
difficult to find craftsmen who could do crown molding.
Thomann thanked staff for explaining the relationship between the metal roof and the gutters as metal
roofs are a mystery and she often forgets that a lot of them came after wood shingles.
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Frank Durham (409 South Summit Street) stated their main question is going to be about how much
wood and how much non -wood materials are required for the crown molding, but they won't know that
until someone comes and really looks at it.
Alex Andino (contractor) has been working with the homeowner, Frank Durham, on this project for the
restoration of his roof. With regards to the crown molding, they found contacts and appreciate staff's
showing them a list of people that they can contact about this crown molding. The plan is to just replace
the crown molding in the areas there are damage.
MOTION: Villanueva moves to approve a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 409 South
Summit Street, as presented in the staff report, with the following conditions:
The roof shingle is a brown or gray, and the porch roof membrane is gray.
The crown molding removal is limited to the deteriorated portions and is replaced with wood to
match.
Wagner seconded the motion.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0.
Bristow noted they had two projects on this agenda that had the same issue, a Yankee gutter in the
roof slope. A few years ago, they had the first one, and then that followed up with a second one so
these are three and four. If the Commission is interested staff would be open to the idea of saying
specifically Yankee gutter removal is something that could be approved as a minor review in the future.
It would then just be brought to the Commission as a staff review COA. The Commission agreed to
that discussion and Bristow will put it on a future agenda.
Villanueva asked if they should look at all internal gutters, because they're really struggling to find
people that can rebuild internal gutters. Bristow stated she has been working on the list, a couple years
ago they only knew one person and now they know of six and are continually expanding that list of
people. The list has some people who make new pans, some people who just line them with EPDM,
there are two people now who repair them with fiberglass, one has been doing that for 25 years in St.
Louis and now is doing it here. The Commission can certainly take it up but with most internal gutters
staff finds that if they were to approve removing them it would substantially impact the architectural
character of the of the building, and so that's why the guidelines disallow removing them. Bristow
added that's why it is really important for people to reach out to City staff because they do have lists of
experienced contractors and are continually updating them. Bristow also stated she wouldn't
recommend having it be staff approvable regardless because of the fact that it can really impact the
historic character. With the Yankee gutters it's just not possible to build them again in the same way.
REPORT ON CERTIFICATES ISSUED BY CHAIR AND STAFF:
Certificate of No Material Effect- Chair and Staff Review:
HPC25-0059: 810 North Johnson Street - Brown Street Historic District (partial foundation wall
replacement):
Bristow noted they've had a few projects because this house went up for sale, in this particular project
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they are replacing the foundation wall on the north side and it won't be visible because it's at grade.
HPC25-0062: 431 South Summit Street - Summit Street Historic District (window repair):
Bristow stated this is Villanueva's house and there are some windows that will be repaired. Villanueva
noted they did use one of the new contractors that staff recommended.
HPC25-0067: 1022 East College Street- East College Street Historic District (porch railing repair):
Bristow stated this railing is deteriorated enough to need replacement.
Minor Review - Staff Review:
HPC25-0042: 624 North Johnson Street - Brown Street Historic District (window sash replacement):
Bristow stated these windows were modern and they're replacing sashes. It is on the back of the house
in the kitchen, but the windows are not the same age as the front windows of the house.
HPC25-0052: 528 East College Street - College Green Historic District (roof shingle replacement):
Bristow stated the roof shingles are being replaced.
HPC25-0057: 813 Ronalds Street - Brown Street Historic District (Rear deck replacement):
Bristow noted this is actually a key property in the Ronalds Street Historic District that has changed
hands and they did a little work on the porch earlier, now they're replacing the deck.
HPC25-0061: 525 & 601 Oakland Avenue - Longfellow Historic District (shared garage roof
replacement):
Bristow explained 525 and 601 Oakland Avenue share a garage and it needs some overall repair. This
project they're just replacing the roof shingles but there might be more work coming up on this in the
future.
HPC25-0065: 447 S Summit St - Summit Street Historic District (new mini -split HVAC units):
Bristow stated they are getting some mini splits, all the units all in the back.
Intermediate Review— Chair and Staff Review:
HPC25-0051: 1046 Woodlawn Avenue - Woodlawn Historic District (replacement of stairs and decks):
Bristow stated this is a 1960s style ranch house duplex and it has two little entry decks on each side
that are going to be replaced.
HPC25-0055: 404 E Jefferson Street - Jefferson Street Historic District (foundation wall ventilation
alteration):
Bristow noted this is the St Paul's Lutheran chapel and they have been working through some HVAC
issues over time. This project is something that looks like an egress window in the foundation wall, but
it'll be a vent, probably with a grate over it. It is on the Jefferson Street facing side but it'll be down
below grade and hopefully not visible.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
OCTOBER 9, 2025
Page 13 of 16
HPC25-0063: 748 Rundell Street - Lonafellow Historic District (shinale replacement oroiect):
Bristow stated this little brick bungalow has shingle siding in the gables so while they're re -roofing this
they're going to put wood shingles back on the walls of the gable like it would have originally had.
CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES FOR AUGUST 14, 2025:
MOTION: Thoman moves to approve the minutes of the Historic Preservation Commission's
August 14, 2025, meeting. Burford seconded the motion The motion carried on a vote of 7-0.
COMMISSION INFORMATION:
Bristow stated all commissioners are required to do a training regarding open meetings, once
completed you will receive a certificate and will need to give that certificate to the clerk's office.
COMMISSION DISCUSSION:
Iowa Highway 6 Bridge Mitigation Project:
Russett stated that Bristow spoke on this several months ago, but as a reminder this bridge has to be
demolished, so it's creating a need to mitigate the impact of the demolition of this historic bridge. When
the Commission discussed this last time there were three mitigation projects that were identified, the
Summit Street monument, doing a survey for Oak Grove Park, and the third one was survey of the
Lucas Farms/Kirkwood Avenue neighborhood. Staff has been in contact with the DOT throughout this
project and they reviewed the three options and determined that the Oak Grove Park survey would be
the most appropriate based on their time and resources. Russett shared the draft language that they
are proposing for the MOA and wanted the Commission to have an opportunity to look at the language,
and if there are any comments, to share those with staff so they can send those back to the DOT. The
DOT will do a survey of the park and surrounding residences. The Commission will then have an
opportunity to review the survey. The DOT will be hiring the contractor and the architectural historian to
do the survey and managing the project.
Bristow stated this is the park next to the railroad tracks that is believed to have a history as a Mexican
barrio. The Mexican immigrants who worked on the railroad lived in boxcars along the railroad, then
eventually the boxcars were replaced with a row of tiny homes that are now gone.
Historic Preservation Awards - Save the Date: Wednesday, March 25, 2026
Lewis stated the committee will get together soon to discuss ways to promote it and get nominations.
Letter from the University of Iowa related to the Cannon -Gay House and Sanxay House:
Russett noted there's the letter from the University in the agenda packet, the background is this is the
Cannon -Gay House that the University owns. There was a City right of way, an alley next to it and the
University requested that the alley be vacated and the City agreed to that but that the University needs
to protect the house. The University agreed so there is a deed restriction that protects this Cannon -Gay
House. Circumstances have since changed and there's a lot of development that's going on in this part
of the campus. There's also an effort to make Byington Road a two way street, and that's going to
coincide with the Burlington Street Bridge Project, the roadway will need to be realigned which could
impact the front yard of this house. Therefore, the University is proposing is to protect the home at 109
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
OCTOBER 9, 2025
Page 14 of 16
East Market Street, the Sanxay-Gilmore House in exchange for the demolition of the Cannon -Gay
House. There were earlier discussions around protecting the Sanxay-Gilmore House and moving it over
to the City -owned surface lot, and the City was going to give the lot to the University to do that.
However, once the costs came in on the house moving, it was over budget and that effort failed to
protect that house. So, this is an opportunity for the Commission to weigh in on this situation, it will be a
decision of City Council but any comments that this Commission has will be forwarded to Council.
Bristow added if members of the Commission want to attend the Council meeting and they happen to
have any time for members of the public to speak, Commissioners would be able to speak.
Thomann asked if the house that's along Market Street is occupied, it appears empty when she walks
by. Russett replied she doesn't think it's occupied or that the University is currently using it.
Lewis noted concern that they've developed enough over by the Cannon -Gay House that it's kind of
lost and the context of it doesn't really work but then in in a year or two are they're going to get another
letter saying they'd like to destroy the Sanxay-Gilmore House and they will protect something farther
away or whatever.
Villanueva noted what's stopping Tippe from right across the street coming in with a huge donor.
Wagner stated that's the whole reason they have that big green space there, those were homes that
the University bought and the intention was to get rid of 107 and 109 Clinton Street and make that
whole section part of something to do with the College of Business. That house really should be moved
and saved because both the exterior and interior integrity is quite good. At one time Lutheran Campus
Ministries owned it, the English Lutherans, Gloria Day, and they rented it and then they sold it to the
University. The other one, the Cannon -Gay House, while it looks really nice on the outside, the
University used it for offices and they clobbered the inside, there's not one thing inside that is
salvageable. He took a tour of it with the hopes that maybe there's stuff to salvage but there was
nothing in that one that he could salvage.
Thomann is thankful for that context, because to look at that house it looks magnificent, but it is not so
much.
Wagner stated his understanding is the University could go in tomorrow and just knock everything
down. He has spoken to Rod Lehnertz at the University about 107 and 109 Clinton Street and that 109
Market should not be destroyed.
Lewis noted the business school is also expanding into Gilmore Hall.
Wagner stated that vacant lot, that's the next site for University development, so the house will need to
be moved. The question is where, but it can be done.
Thomann stated the University is doing a lot around there, they tore down a couple of houses on
Dubuque and Bloomington.
Wagner reported that a window from one of those houses got reused on a garage on College Street.
Bristow noted another interesting thing is the fact that the Cannon -Gay House was listed in the National
Register and then was locally landmarked it in 1996. South of that is the Melrose Historic District that's
also listed in the National Register. However, because there are so many University owned houses
along Melrose in that district the City did not locally designate that district and part of it was because
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
OCTOBER 9, 2025
Page 15 of 16
they had the Cannon -Gay House that they agreed to locally designate. She added they also do not
have any local or national registered designation on the Sanxay-Gilmore House. Bristow stated when it
originally was going to be taken down a few years ago there was a push to save it and to have it locally
landmarked was discussed, but since it was owned by the University, and the City doesn't regulate the
University properties in the same way, that discussion didn't go any further. Russett stated that why the
with the Cannon -Gay House there's a deed restriction, it's not a rezoning like what would typically be
done for a landmark designation.
Lewis asked if the City Council agrees to this and they shift the deed restriction to the Sanxay-Gilmore
House does that mean if they want to change something they have to go through City Council. Russett
confirmed yes and the Board of Regents because the Board of Regents will probably the ones be
signing the deed restriction.
The Commission discussed the Cannon -Gay House and generally agreed that since it is unsalvageable
they are okay with the proposal.
Thomann asked if there was any way to encourage that if this is demolished that any salvageable
pieces go to the salvage barn or other outlets like that.
Bristow noted they are always looking for historic bricks, but depending on how it is demolished they
may not be able to salvage the bricks. It also has stone keystones over some of the windows, though
it's also not going to be a simple salvage, they would need a mason to salvage instead of just a
demolition contractor.
Bristow stated they could include a comment that suggests that they provide an opportunity for salvage,
that has been done that in the past when they took down Quadrangle and the house that used to be the
Women's Resource and Action Center.
Curfman noted there was a neighbor that wanted the front door. Bristow stated the house at 1011
Woodlawn that caught fire a while ago had a really elaborate pair of doors so the idea is that these
doors could go to that house.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 7:20pm.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION ATTENDANCE RECORD
2024-2025
TERM
10/10
11/14
12/12
1/9
2/13
3/13
4/10
5/8
6/12
7/10
8/14
10/9
NAME
EXP.
BECK,
6/30/27
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
MARGARET
BROWN,
6/30/26
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
O/E
O/E
CARL
BURFORD,
6/30/27
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
KEVI N
CURFMAN,
6/30/2028
---
---
---
---
---
---
---
---
---
X
O/E
X
AUSTIN
LEWIS,
6/30/26
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
ANDREW
RUSSELL,
6/30/27
O/E
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
RYAN
SELLERGREN,
6/30/25
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
JORDAN
THOMANNN,
6/30/26
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
DEANNA
VILLANUEVA,
6/30/25
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
NICOLE
WAGNER,
6/30/26
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
FRANK
WELU-
6/30/25
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
REYNOLDS,
CHRISTINA
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E= Absent/Excused
--- = Not a member
Item Number: 5.d.
I, CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
December 9, 2025
Housing & Community Development Commission: September 15 [See Recommendations]
Attachments: Housing & Community Development Commission: September 15 [See
Recommendations]
r
��_..® CITY OF IOWA CITY
MEMORANDUM
Date: November 19, 2025
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Brianna Thul, Senior Community Development Planner
Re: Recommendation from Housing and Community Development Commission
At the September 15, 2025 meeting, the Housing and Community Development Commission
discussed FY26 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding requests. By a vote of
5-0, the Commission recommended $212,132 of CDBG funding to the Iowa City Housing
Authority for acquisition of affordable rental housing. Attached please find a copy of the minutes
of the September 15, 2025, Housing and Community Development Commission meeting.
Resolution 25-169 approved this amount of CDBG funding to be used for rental acquisition and
Resolution 25-29 authorizes the City Manager to execute, terminate or amend CDBG
agreements. No further action is required at this time and any property purchase will come
before City Council prior to closing.
Additional action (check one)
X No further action needed
(FY26 Annual Action Plan budget was approved by City Council July 8, 2025)
Board or Commission is requesting Council direction
Agenda item will be prepared by staff for Council action
MINUTES
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
SEPTEMBER 15, 2025 — 5:30 PM
FORMAL MEETING
E M M A J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
FINAL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Maryann Dennis, Amos Kiche, Sarah Murray, Thomas Rocklin, Kyle
Vogel
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Brianna Thul
OTHERS PRESENT: None
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
By a vote of 5-0 the Commission recommends $212,132 of CDBG funding to the Iowa City Housing
Authority for acquisition of affordable rental housing.
CALL MEETING TO ORDER:
Dennis called the meeting to order at 5:30 PM.
CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: AUGUST 18, 2025:
Rocklin moved to approve the minutes of August 18, 2025. Kiche seconded the motion. A vote was
taken and the minutes were approved 5-0.
PUBLIC COMMENT FOR TOPICS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
DISCUSS FY26 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT FUNDING REQUEST AND
CONSIDER BUDGET RECOMMENDATION:
Thul noted in a normal year, the Commission would be comparing different proposals and trying to decide
how to divide up the CDBG funding, but this year is a bit unusual with just one request, so the
Commission is essentially deciding to fund or not fund this request. She noted the Commission is not
obligated to fund it just because it is the only proposal. They could recommend rolling those funds into the
next competitive funding round. She noted that staff do recommend funding the proposal and that it would
help the City meet spending deadlines but it's ultimately up to the Commission.
Dennis stated she is going to vote to approve this, she thought it was a good application, the pro forma
looked good and they do have some cash flow at the end. She does think finding a property that doesn't
need any rehab for the price point that they're looking for could be difficult, but she has confidence that
they'll be able to do it.
Vogel noted when he saw the pro forma his concern was that there was more money left on the table.
They're paying 9% and they have 9% management fees, he is not sure who they have manage it.
However, he is also going to recommend approval as there is a legitimate need for larger properties, for
larger families. It also is only within the last year that the city of Iowa City changed the housing code to
allow for multifamily properties that were over three bedrooms or four bedrooms for multifamily residential
Housing and Community Development Commission
September 15, 2025
Page 2 of 7
so finding stock will be difficult, there's not a lot of four or five bedroom apartments built in the 80s out
there and there's obviously not a lot of houses out there that are affordable either. Vogel is also
concerned because he always hates approving money when not knowing what the actual amount is going
to be. He noted this is what their best guess is and he went on the MILS and there's a lot of properties out
there that are four or five bedrooms that are cheaper than what this is going to cost. But as pointed out
there's also going probably going to be some upgrade or remodel needed to make it livable for larger
families. He asked what if they find that property that's cheaper than the money awarded, and why not
split it up and buy two properties with 50% down payments down on properties. Vogel stated that's not
the proposal that was presented, but maybe in the future that's something that that they can look at and
maybe there is a possibility to actually make this a bigger project, or the ability to serve more than just
one family.
Dennis noted the other thing about these funds is if a seller has a house on the market and somebody
comes and says they want to buy the house but is not sure when they are going to get the money the
seller is not going to just keep on paying property taxes and insurance and everything.
Kiche stated he would support it just for the fact that is going to increase the supply of affordable housing
and that's a big area that worries him, even if it is by one unit. Also the fact that is the rent is going to be
about 80% of the regular market fact is very important.
Vogel noted it is less than that - they're looking at $1,300 a month for a four or five bedroom which is
about 40% of market rent. This is going to serve a family of eight or nine who are 40% AMI, at probably
$59,000 that only get $1,300 a month for the voucher. Right now on Zillow a five bedroom house in the
area would probably be $3,300 or $3,400.
MOTION: Dennis moved to recommend $212,132 of CDBG funding to the Iowa City Housing
Authority for acquisition of affordable rental housing.
Motion was seconded by Kiche.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 5-0.
FY25 CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL PERFORMANCE & EVALUATION REPORT (CAPER) OVERVIEW
AND UPDATE ON CITY PROGRAMS:
Thul introduced the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report. The format of the report is
prescribed by HUD and staff have prepared some slides to help supplement the report. Thul began with
an overview of the Neighborhood and Development Service Department. NDS is led by Tracy Hightshoe
and includes three divisions. Development Services includes Urban Planning and Building Inspections.
Neighborhood Services is where the Community Development team is located along with Housing
Inspection Services and the Iowa City Housing Authority. The third division is the Metropolitan Planning
Organization. The City's Community Development team operates with a lean staff like many other City
workgroups. There are two housing rehab specialists, a program assistant, and a grants specialist. The
grants specialist is a temporary position they were able to hire through HOME -ARP funding which was a
one-time allocation of funds related to COVID.
The Community Development team administers different grants for the City including those specific to this
plan which are Community Development Block Grant and HOME Investment Partnership Program funds.
Thul encouraged Commissioners to keep in mind that the CAPER does not cover everything that the City
does related to housing and community development. The report is very specific to the two HUD grants.
The Community Development team also operates programs administered directly by the City such as
down payment assistance. They also facilitate competitive funding rounds and work with subrecipients to
undertake projects. Staff spend a lot of time working with nonprofits to provide technical assistance and
help them through the complicated federal regulations. They want to make sure projects are set up for
success and that subrecipients have what they need. Thul's team also undertakes planning initiatives
Housing and Community Development Commission
September 15, 2025
Page 3 of 7
related to community development. They recently completed a big five-year plan known as City Steps.
Commissioners will see the Annual Action Plan each year with planned projects and then the CAPER is
the last step of the annual planning process. The CAPER provides accountability to HUD. Thul continued
that staff also handle monitoring and compliance for federally funded activities. For example, they review
tenant information annually for affordable rental activities to make sure that the those assisted are at the
correct income thresholds. Lastly, staff participate in different community groups like the Local Homeless
Coordinating Board to stay in tune with what is happening in the community.
Thul gave an overview of City administered programs that are funded with CDBG or HOME funds. The
City's down payment assistance program began in 2022. Eligible households can receive just under
$25,000 to purchase an affordable home. The assistance is provided in the form of a loan with no monthly
payments or interest. If the buyer stays in the home for the full compliance period, usually 10 years, the
loan is forgiven. The program is made possible through partnerships with GreenState Credit Union and
Hills Bank. Both lenders provide flexibility in credit, assets, and job tenure in consideration of mortgage
approval. To date, the City has invested about $580,0000 in affordable homeownership for 25
households. During the planning process for City Steps 2030, staff heard a lot from the community about
down payment assistance. There is definitely a need for this assistance and the City will open this
program again in FY26.
Thul explained that a portion of the annual Aid to Agencies program budget come from federal CDBG
funds. About 11 % of the FY26 budget was federally funded. HUD caps the amount of each grant that the
City can use for public services, so the funds only cover a portion of the program.
The City also operates a longstanding homeowner rehab program. For example, an income eligible
homeowner may need to replace their leaking roof. The City's housing rehab specialists would help them
develop a scope of work and collect bids to complete the work. Staff also inspect the work once
completed to make sure everything looks okay. Thul explained that when people think of affordable
housing, they generally think of adding new units, but it is also very important to preserve the City's
existing housing stock to make sure the problem doesn't worsen. The programs are a great way to help
do that.
Thul continued that the City stated a new tenant based rental assistance program this year as well
through the Iowa City Housing Authority. The Housing Authority has a waiting list for assistance and the
TBRA program uses HOME funds to help pull people off the waiting list sooner as a transition before a
voucher is available. This program serves elderly and disabled households below 30% AMI. This program
is very new, but Thul noted they have served 8 households so far.
Income limits vary based on funding source and activity. Area median income is established by HUD
annually for Iowa City along with rent limits. In general, 51 % of CDBG beneficiaries are required to be
below 80% AMI. One thing the City does really well is making sure the assistance gets to those that need
it the most. 51 % is the minimum requirement for CDBG and Iowa City is achieving about 95%-99% under
80% AMI. In the FY25 CAPER, about 72% of beneficiaries were below 30% AMI.
Thul highlighted the impact from projects completed in FY25. 13 households were provided with down
payment assistance. 13 owner units and 2 rental units were rehabbed. The City also completed ADA curb
ramps at 10 intersections on the southeast side of Iowa City. Over 3,000 individuals were assisted with
public services funding. Shelter beds for survivors of domestic violence doubled from 35 to 70 beds
thanks in part to CDBG and HOME -ARP funds and just under 2,000 people were assisted through public
facility improvements. Thul noted that FY25 was the final year of the previous five-year plan, City Steps
2025 and that there was a flyer in the meeting packet that included project highlights from partnerships
with local nonprofits. Having nonprofits in the community with the capacity to undertake federally funded
projects is an important piece of this funding.
Other highlights from FY25 include the highest spending levels in more than a decade which allowed the
City to meet HUD's timeliness test in May. The spending test also underscores the importance of the
Commission's work with reviewing applications. If projects are funded that are likely to encounter
Housing and Community Development Commission
September 15, 2025
Page 4 of 7
significant or repeated delays, it makes it a lot harder for the City to meet HUD's requirements. In FY25
the City also approved a new five-year consolidated plan, transitioned to new software for select
programs, and committed all HOME -ARP funding to projects.
Challenges from FY25 include many new changes to regulations with little guidance on how to
implement. Staff work hard to keep tabs on these changes to make sure they are following the most
current guidance. Other challenges include complex federal regulations that make it difficult to get bids for
projects and general decreases in annual funding allocations, especially considering inflation.
Thul noted that FY25 was the conclusion of City Steps 2025 and that not all goals were achieved for the
five-year period. The plan was approved in January of 2020 right before the pandemic which changed
everything. For example, only two rental units were constructed during the five-year period. The infusion
of funds from HUD and from the state in response to COVID really shifted the focus for several years.
Looking ahead to City Steps 2030, one of the City's goals is to strategically use all the federal and non-
federal resources available. The City has also simplified the competitive funding rounds and changed the
annual set aside amounts to reserve funds for ongoing programs such as down payment assistance.
The public comment period for the CAPER began on September 4t" and runs through September 21 st. No
comments have been received to date. This plan isn't required to be approved by the HCDC or by City
Council, but staff typically request approval from HCDC annually.
Vogel asked for comments or questions from Commissioners about the report.
Kiche asked about contractors and noted that the tables in the report do not specify if contractors are
local or if they are coming from other areas. He is concerned that less experienced local contractors may
not be given opportunities. Thul responded that table only includes information that is required by HUD to
report on, but that anecdotally she can confirm that they do see small local contractors come through
various programs. Contractors can reach out staff for more information on City programs.
Dennis asked for clarification on the table that summarizes progress towards goals. Are the goals annual
or for the full five years? Thul explained that the table includes both. Two columns show the cumulative
progress for the five-year period and two of the columns show the annual goals and progress. The way
this table downloads from HUD's software can be very confusing and staff have added tables under
Appendix A for clarity.
Rocklin asked what the barrier was to build 20 units of rental housing. Thul explained that the
construction goal was set in January of 2020 right before the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded in March the
same year. This created many challenges including construction costs.
Dennis asked about the HOME match requirements and confirmed if the City can carry extra match
forward. Thul confirmed and explained the requirement and that the City uses property taxes forgone for
match.
Kiche asked about the difference between special needs households the City planned to serve and the
actual outcome. Thul explained that accomplishments are reported in the CAPER the year the activity is
completed. The TBRA Program began in FY25 and has a target to serve 80 households. Since the
program started recently, the accomplishments for this program will be reported in a later CAPER upon
completion. One of the extra tables in Appendix A shows the partial funds expended to indicate the
program is underway.
Kiche noted the City does a lot to support homeless serves in the community and yet there is no data
from Shelter House on their federal grants. Thul stated that this report specifically deals with CDBG and
HOME funds. Shelter House receives funding from other federal entities, and they own have their own
obligations to report to their funders. An example of when they would see data from Shelter House in this
!9
Housing and Community Development Commission
September 15, 2025
Page 5 of 7
CAPER is when they use CDBG funds to make public facility improvements at their shelter. In that case,
they would be reporting on the beneficiaries specific to that project only.
Kiche commented on the Section 3 report and the few number of projects listed. Staff clarified that the
Section 3 rules only kick in for certain projects receiving federal assistance above $200,000. The Section
3 table is not representative of all projects.
Vogel noted that the City puts out other information all year for the public that is designed for the public.
This report is what HUD has asked for. Murray asked if it is fair to say that this report does not capture a
wider scope than what it is at this moment. Vogel confirmed. Thul added that if there is information or
data points that Commissioners are interested in that falls outside the scope of the CAPER, staff are
happy to provide more information. She continued that the department does an annual Neighborhood and
Development Services report that highlights department wide work and is intended to be user friendly for
the public.
Rocklin asked what happens after the report is submitted to HUD. Thul stated that they will submit the
through HUD's software system and HUD staff will typically get back to them with any questions or points
of clarification about the report before approving.
Kiche asked if the report can be used for internal decision making. Thul responded that it depends on
what decisions you are looking at. This report is a good representation of what the City has achieved
during FY25 with CDBG and HOME funds, but it is a narrow view of the work being done by the City. As
Vogel and Dennis mentioned, there is a lot of work being done by the City outside of these federal funds.
Thul doesn't want Kiche to think that this report is the only affordable housing activity going on at the City.
Also, things like local Aid to Agencies outcomes aren't reflected in this report either. Thul stated the
CAPER is the City's accountability to HUD for CDBG and HOME specifically.
Kiche wondered why they don't use the funds to use grants to increase the level of effort with inspections,
so houses are in good condition. Vogel responded that he has not seen an organization come to HCDC in
the time he has served to ask for a request like that. They do occasionally have new agencies that come
forward.
Thul added that when the agenda for HCDC isn't so busy with funding decisions, they can also have
presenters come in to give an overview of different topics like housing inspections. She also stated that
there is $1.1 million available right now for affordable housing projects through the Housing Trust Fund of
Johnson County. Applications are due October 3rd. If there are entities interested in housing activities,
there are other funds available as well beyond CDBG and HOME.
Motion: Murray motions to approve the FY25 CAPER for submission to HUD.
Dennis seconded the motion.
A vote was taken and motion passed 5-0.
STAFF & COMMISSION UPDATES:
Vogel reminded everyone if they have not signed up for one of the required trainings, please do so. There
is a training on September 29 that's currently open for registration at Terry Trueblood. He added if they
can't make this one on September 29, they'll be sending out a notice for another one on Wednesday
October 22.
Vogel also noted for the October HCDC meeting there is a conflict for this space at 5:30 that night. So
they could meet either the week before, which is October 13, or the week after October 27. Thul noted
because there's not a lot coming up they could just say it's no October meeting as there are not any
funding decisions or plans, and nothing time sensitive.
Housing and Community Development Commission
September 15, 2025
Page 6 of 7
Vogel asked when City Council might appoint replacements. Thul stated they are supposed to appoint
one person tomorrow to fill George Kivarkis's seat and now will have to fill another one as Karol Krotz has
also resigned. Vogel noted it might be best to wait then until November and have both of the new
members come together to their first meeting.
Everyone agreed to no October meeting
ADJOURNMENT:
Murray moved to adjourn, Dennis seconded the motion and a vote was taken and the motion passed 5-0
Housing and Community Development Commission
September 15, 2025
Page 7 of 7
Housing and Community
Development Commission
Attendance Record 2024-2025
Name
Terms Exp.
6113
8119
9116
10121
3124
4121
5119
6116
7121
8118
9115
--
A
A
P
A
A
D
D
D
D
D
Balde, Daouda
6/30/27
P
P
A
A
P
P
A
P
Borgen, Horacio
6/30/25
(zoom)
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Dennis, Maryann
6/30/25
--
--
--
--
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Kiche, Amos
6/30/25
--
P
P
A
P
P
P
P
P
Kivarkis, George
6/30/27
(zoom)
(zoom)
P
A
P
P
A
A
P
P
A
A
Krotz, Karol
6/30/27
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
P
P
P
Murray, Sarah
6/30/27
P
P
P
P
Patel, Kiran
6/30/26
P
A
P
A
Pierce, James
6/30/26
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
P
P
P
Rocklin, Thomas
6/30/28
Szecsei, Denise
6/30/25
A
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Vogel, Kyle
6/30/26
Key:
P = Present
A = Absent
* = Resigned
-- = Vacant
D = Discharged
Item Number: 5.e.
a
CITY OF IOWA CITY
"QF T-4 COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
December 9, 2025
Human Rights Commission: October 28 [See Recommendation]
Attachments: Human Rights Commission: October 28 [See Recommendation]
r
��-4 CITY OF I O W A CITY
Tom'i®!� MEMORANDUM
Date: December 2, 2025
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Stefanie Bowers, Human Rights Coordinator
Re: Recommendation from Human Rights Commission
At its meeting of October 28, 2025, the Human Rights Commission made the following
recommendation to the City Council:
To pass a resolution for Fourth Amendment Workplace Protections.
Additional action (check one)
X No further action needed
Board or Commission is requesting Council direction
Agenda item will be prepared by staff for Council action
S:RECform.doc
Approved Minutes
Human Rights Commission
October 28, 2025
Emma J. Harvat Hall
Commissioners Present: Doug Kollasch, Elizabeth Mendez -Shannon, Kelsey Paul Shantz, Mark Pries,
Viana Qadoura.
Commissioners on Zoom: Talya Miller, Lubna Mohamed.
Commissioners Absent: Emily Harkin, Roger Lusala.
Staff Present: Stefanie Bowers, Tre Hall.
Meeting Called to Order: 5:32 PM.
Recommendations to City Council: Yes, to pass a resolution for Fourth Amendment Workplace
Protections.
Native American Land Acknowledgement: The Land Acknowledgement was read by Paul Shantz.
Report from the Police Department's Community Outreach: Tre Hall, Community Outreach Assistant
Went over past events.
'Brew with the Crew' took place at the beginning of the month at the Willow Creek Park. The event
had great turnout, Hall hopes the event continues to grow. 'Brew with the Crew' is advertised on
Facebook, news releases and the radio.
Hall and Joshua Dabusu, Community Outreach Assistant tabled the African Fest. Hall and Dabusu also
met the new street outreach, Eben Senft from Shelter House. Hall exclaims Senft is an excellent
resource.
The team did a squad tour at a preschool off Court and 1st
Hall met with Community Violence Intervention, and they are working on a project with more
information coming. Hall shares he has high hopes for this project.
The Salvation Army teamed up for a Trunk or Treat October 23rd at the Pizza Ranch. 150 to 200 kids
and their families walked through the event.
Winter clothing drive was 3-4 full days of people attending from throughout Johnson County.
Holiday with Heroes is coming up in December. Previous name was 'Shop with the Cop' and changed
1
due to potential legality issue.
Impromptu community outreach took place on the Pentacrest on October 29' handing out candy,
koozies and stress balls.
Qadoura asks if there are any resources that would be great to know about due to SNAP and food
security issues. Hall responds that Community Crisis is a resource with more information or great
resource to direct questions to. The Senior Center on Mondays has food drives. These options will be
more utilized as the SNAP deadline hits.
Paul Shantz brings concern to the cold weather months and lack of benefits and if there are any
resources for residents. Hall brings attention to the rules and regulations put in place by City of Iowa
City that landlords must provide heat and water. If you are having issues, call the Iowa City Housing
Inspector.
Presentation by Escucha Mi Voz:
Frist Speaker, Heidi Pu-Osorio shared her experience of immigrating that is why we organize, because in
the United States, we have the power to change our present and our future. To instill this belief Pu-
Osorio demands the Fourth Amendment to be enforced to protect immigrant workers from harassment,
detainment and their right to due process. The law must protect all of us, equally, because justice knows
no immigration status.
Second Speaker, Wendy Castanun shared her experience of immigrating in search of a safe life, due to
violence becoming part of everyday life and poverty had closed the doors to a better future. Leaving
everything behind with hope of work and education but with dreams and dignity. We came because we
deeply believe that all human beings deserve to live in peace, with justice and respect, regardless of our
race, language, skin color or religion because dignity has no borders. Castanun shares the hope we all
have for a better life and why it is essential to organize to defend our rights, resist the unjust policies of
this administration and raise voices against discrimination and abuse. Organizing is not just an act of
defense, it's and act of hope and collective power. Castanun states it is necessary to fully implement the
Fourth Amendment, so immigrants have protection and safety at work. No person should be harassed,
detained or violated without cause of due process. The law must protect us all equally.
Third Speaker, Elida Contreras brings attention to the working families in Johnson County who sustain
our economy and are facing an increasingly severe crisis, both at home and work. Many our essential in
sectors such as construction, childcare, cleaning, hospitality and food services. Many are being harassed
2
by ICE at their workplace and forced to live in overcrowded condition and denied access to resources. To
intervene, Contreras stresses the obligation of local governments should be obligated to do so and asks
the Human Rights Commission to help pass the resolution of Workplace Due Process and Safety
Resolution, which reaffirms 4th Amendment protections for all workers. We don't want more cases like
Jorge's to happen.
Pries moves to advance to City council; seconded by Paul Shantz.
Pries would like to learn more about non-public workplaces or spaces. Escucha Mi Voz explains there are
private place or non-public places in public workplace. A room just for workers, not the public. Pries asks
for a description of designating a locked private area. Escucha Mi Voz uses an example of a kitchen is
usually open and if workers can lock themselves in, ICE cannot storm in.
Mendez -Shannon mentions in addition to the resolution, Escucha Mi Voz will be available to train local
officials and then have an open invite to businesses in town, workers, owners and legal observers.
Paul Shantz points out the community support section and to put resources behind it to highlight the
importance whether that be joint entities or individual city councils. Escucha Mi Voz idea is not to just
implement this resolution in Iowa City but other cities that belong to Johnson County because so many
immigrants live and work here.
Pries would like to see lots of signage on buildings. Escucha Mi Voz would make them. Pries explains that
the signage, the Commission could encourage churches to buy them and put them up.
Workers need to be safe and right now ICE is storming in and grabbing people with no warrants. Many
know there's their private place at work, like Jorge but was revealed to ICE by the business owner. The
language is to educated business owners and workers about the rights they have.
Kollasch asks if there are any other incidents that are not as publicized as Jorge's. Escucha Mi Voz
responds not as big as Jorge's since the incident was in the core of Iowa City but there are check -ins with
people. Many incidents are not learned until after and the family is reaching out. The construction
workers that go to Menards are kidnapped.
Pries states that the Bread Garden event with Jorge was intended to instill fear among us by ICE and it
certainly did that but still a big crowd protested.
Paul Shantz brings awareness to how awful and threatening this is to the community, even if they do not
see themselves concerned or at risk, the use of state force in this way and using ICE resources is a threat
to all of us and how important Escucha Mi Voz is.
Kollasch states that Escucha Mi Voz has the Commission's help and support.
Qadoura highlights people and their organizations courage and bravery right now facing federal and
state laws and how important they are as a starting point but also as a moment in history that we will
not be silenced and giving possibilities to ourselves and community. 1 hope no one gets daunted or shys
away from seeking justice, even if things do not pass as we expect them to.
Paul Shauntz asks how community can support beyond the initial presentation. Escucha Mi Voz
attending join entity meetings and receiving donations to move forward.
Motion passed 7-0.
Approval of Meeting Minutes of September 23, 2025, and October 1, 2025: Priest moved; seconded
Paul Shantz. Motion passed 7-0.
Public Comments of Items Not on the Agenda: None.
Correspondence:
- Veterans for Peace: November 1P
- One Community, One Book: November 10'n
- Community Connections Day: November 18'h — Staff tabling 9-2
Review November Meeting Date:
Original date: Tuesday, November 25'n
Rescheduled: Monday, December 1s' at 5:30pm
Consider Hosting a December Mixer:
Kollasch highlights having meet and greet events like this in the past. Staff mentions past events
called 'Coffee and Cocoa'. Qadoura mentions a weekday may draw less crowds since people are
usually rushing through their business hours and things, therefore afternoon, early evening or
weekend.
Pries mentions this could be a 'magnet group' depending on how event is promoted.
Kollasch pitches a Sunday Afternoon, December 7th. Call the event 'Cocoa and Carols' and maybe
have a church group sing, the Commission can sing or record music.
Miller suggests 'Cocoa and Cards' and attendees could make holiday cards.
91
Kollasch recommends doing a Doodle Poll via email.
Staff clarifies date for December 7t". Chair agrees, Kollasch states somewhere in that first two weeks
of December.
Mendez -Shannon asks for schedule clarification and how that works with the Commission bringing
the resolution to City Council. Staff clarifies that it is a recommendation, and any next steps would be
within their purview of the City Council, this does not guarantee a seat at the table. Kollasch confirms
Commission will reach out to city council members and encourage them to put the resolution on
their agenda.
Commission Work Groups:
Transportation — Staff will reach out to Jeremy.
Ordinance Revisions— Miller started compiling information on the person of size ordinance within the
human rights ordinance in Minneapolis. No meetings yet.
Immigration — Mendez -Shannon officially agrees to be apart of working group and highlights Escucha Mi
Voz as the champion voice of what's happening. Escucha Mi Voz has a work session open to everyone in
the community for SNAP information. Possibly consider a partner workshop with the police on
immigrant rights. Qadoura joined the Immigration working group and would like to bring an idea to the
Commission that expands the outlines of the group next meeting.
Community Outreach — Paul Shantz, Kollasch and Miller met briefly after the last Commission meeting.
Planning to have the first of the dialogue series out before the end of this year, depending on personal
schedule and/or illnesses.
Housing — Paul Shantz is supporting Harkin in this group, and they have not met yet. Mohamed chooses
to be in the housing working group too. Paul Shantz clarifies each working group can determine what
they can do and what to do based on needs and issues identified in the community. Paul Shantz
suggests the next step for them is meeting with Harkin to align on updates. Paul Shantz will step off
from supporting if needed. Pries also joined the group.
Grant Net Update: November 12t" I Meeting #2
Mendez -Shannon shares this second meeting they will dive deeper into assessing the landscape of each
program and what is happening on the ground, and how we con help each other.
Professional Development for Commission and Community Members:
Kollasch brings attention to the community members and the training within the immigration
conversation and how the Commission can get more involved in that space.
Mendez -Shannon shares there was already a training marketed towards the workers and through that,
the realization that all business leaders should be invited from the response of business leaders making
and placing 'No ICE' signs in their windows. The Resolution navigates that knowledge is power and
knowing your rights and that owners and workers have rights to their spaces and navigate those rights.
Paul Shantz wonders if there is any additional 'Know Your Rights' training for private business and/or
members of the community to collaborate with Escucha Mi Voz and if the organization is already
thinking along those lines, there are couple of names within the business community Paul Shants can
suggest.
Kollasch adds an idea of help from non -immigrants within the community and what they can do to help
and what are their rights if they see something happening.
Mendez -Shannon asks about a business network in town. Pries mentioned the Chamber of Commerce
had merged and is now, Greater Iowa City, contacts mentioned are President / CEO Nancy Bird and Vice -
President of Programs and Executive Director of Better Together 2030, Cady Gerlach.
Paul Shantz highlights an opportunity for interpersonal conflict training for individuals and groups that
they are working in the community outreach / dialogue working group and will continue to look into an
option for the community, but there are facilitated training that help people and/or individuals
moderate conversations or to be self -aware of there own interactions and to reach peaceful resolutions
for oneself and/or community.
Staff & Commission Updates:
Staff —Thanks everyone for the great turnout of the 41s' Human Rights Awards breakfast and everyone had
their part to make it successful.
Kollasch — Behalf of the commission returns thanks to staff. The No Kings organization will be doing a food
drive in response to the SNAP benefit deadline in November. Kollasch feels heartbroken and infuriated with
the potential deadline and how this will affect the community going into the colder temperatures and holiday
season and how the Commission can respond. Encourages ideas and discussion from Commission.
Paul Shantz — Announces public virtual launch of edited volume, Identity -Based Mass Violence in Urban
Contexts, on November 12'" at 11am and offers to share link. Paul Shantz has been working on the
volume for the last 5 years of uncovering everyday violence and its connection with mass violence and
the systemic levels of violence against some people in communities that are ignored, overlooked, and ,
not addressed and how that is large-scale and widespread mass violence. This volume has academic
contributors and those who have lived experience with violence. Paul Shantz will be in the United
Kingdom attending Tate Modern, King's College London, University College London, House of Lords in
Parliament, University of Oxford and Bristol to launch English version of the volume and they will be
releasing a Spanish version of the volume in a Spanish-speaking country. This is a culmination of one
6
thing to start another of possible solutions of connection within cities and communities addressing the
experience of violence and create more peaceful communities at the same time.
Pries — Attends the Interfaith Alliance intersection every first Friday of the month. At this month's
meeting, there was a presentation of pronatalism and its racist persistence of a need for white babies.
He also attended the webinar for the book, No Place for Us, and exclaims it is one of the saddest books
he ever read. Pries also went to the movie, Good Fortune. Pries attend the No Kings march, about 1,000-
1,500 at the Pentacrest. Pries brings recognition to the arts and its ability to dive deeper such as the
movies, Eleanor the Great about the Holocaust and Kiss of the Spider Woman is about the Dirty War in
Argentina and encourages Commission members to experience the arts. On November 10th, Pries will
attend the conversation with Author Carolyn Chambers and Dr. Jean Jew to talk about the sexual and
racial harassment that happened at the University.
Miller— Organizing events to bring awareness to disability and body size in the community and will have
more updates at the next meeting. Reading the book, Care Work - Dreaming Disability Justice, and how
to build community support from a disabled activist and writer. The book talks about how disabled
communities know how to build communities due to the response for survival and keeping community
going.
Mohamed — no updates.
Qadoura — Would like to share about people in Gaza, Qadoura's home. People in Gaza never learn to
heal, and they will never heal as they should, but they learn to endure. Qadoura states this has been
ongoing for 70 years and what is being faced is beyond comprehension. Palestinians, Darfur, Sudan and
the City AI-Fasher are suffering. Rapid Support forces have killed more than 2,000 civilians in the past 2
days. Lynching, sniping, killing and if not killed, starved to death. The Sudanese community Qadoura
works with, saves their money to send back home and this effects our local community. We need to
acknowledge this pain within in our community and assist/support somehow as difficulties arise with ICE
agents, immigration policies and SNAP benefits. It is a sad reality to witness, feeling helpless, but we
must care. Closes by asking for prayers and to keep these thoughts when working with the Sudanese
community.
Mendez -Shannon —Acknowledge the need for us to support each other In establishing care in your realm
of influence and impact in your community. Understanding ICE and their impact is emotional work and
being able to show up and be helpful by doing what we can do and be a support.
Pries moves to adjourn. Seconded by Mendez -Shannon.
7
Adjourned: 6:48 PM.
The meeting can be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/@citychannel4/videos.
Human Rights Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2024/2025
(Meeting Date)
NAME
TERM
EXP.
7/23
8/27
9/24
11/26
12/12
1/28
2/25
4/1
4/22
5113
5/27
6/24
8/26
9/23
10/28
Lubna Mohamed
2027
-
-
-
-
-Z
A
Z
Z
A
A
A
Z
A
Z
Doug Kollasch
2027
Z
p
P
P
-
p
P
P
P
Z
P
P
P
P
P
Emily Harkin
2027
P
Z
A
P
-
p
A
A
Z
A
P
p
P
Z
A
Viana Qadoura
2025
P
p
P
P
-
A
A
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Idriss Abdullahi
2025
P
Z
A
P
-
p
A
A
Z
-
R
R
R
R
R
Mark Pries
2025
P
p
P
P
-
A
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Roger Lusala
2026
P
p
P
P
-
p
P
A
A
P
P
A
P
A
Kelsey Paul Shantz
2026
P
A
P
P
-
p
A
P
P
P
P
Z
P
P
P
Liz Mendez -Shannon
2026
P
A
P
A
-
p
P
P
A
A
P
P
P
A
P
Talya Miller
2025
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
A
P
Z
KEY: X = Present
A = Absent
Z = Present via Zoom
Item Number: 5.f.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
December 9, 2025
Library Board of Trustees: October 23
Attachments: Library Board of Trustees: October 23
Iowa City Public Library Board of Trustees
Meeting Minutes
October 23, 2025
2nd Floor — Boardroom
Regular Meeting - 5:00 PM
FINAL
Robin Paetzold
- President
Bonnie Boothroy
John Raeburn
Joseph Massa —
Vice President
Ellen Fox
Cory Schweigel-Skeers
Claire Matthews
- Secretary
Kelcey Patrick -Ferree
Kalmia Strong
Members Present: Bonnie Boothroy, Ellen Fox, Claire Matthews, Robin Paetzold, Kelcey Patrick -
Ferree, John Raeburn, Corey Schweigel-Skeers.
Members Absent: Joseph Massa, Kalmia Strong.
Staff Present: Anne Mangano, Brent Palmer, Jason Paulios, Angie Pilkington, Katie Roche, Jen Royer.
Guests Present: Matt Ghilcrist.
Call Meeting to Order.
Paetzold called the meeting to order at 5:00 pm.
Approval of October 23, 2025 Board Meeting Agenda.
Paetzold noted the agenda should be dated October 23, 2025. Boothroy made a motion to approve the
October 23, 2025, meeting agenda. Raeburn seconded. Motion passed 7/0.
Public Discussion.
None
Items to be Discussed.
Budget Discussion.
Mangano said the budget will be submitted to the City of Iowa City by Tuesday. Mangano noted a few
lines in the budget request where she was asking for an increase. Sanitation supplies are frequently used
and need to increase. New furniture is needed to replace broken tables and chairs in Meeting Room D.
Miscellaneous processing supplies are not being increased however Mangano is requesting they move
in the budget as RFID tags are no longer a capital expense. A consulting budget increase is needed for
the strategic plan. Building repair and maintenance has a major increase as that line is regularly being
overspent and Mangano doesn't want it to impact other parts of the operating budget. Mangano said if
the HVAC or parts of the boiler need to be replaced, it means we're not doing something else. Mangano
is very happy the city approved the CIP request to replace the HVAC units as there were many proposed
projects throughout the city. The City of Iowa City is currently planning to fund the replacement of all
the library's HVAC units in 2030, but it means there may be a major repair beforehand, which would be
a substantial operating budget expense. Paetzold agreed this could be a substantial expense. Mangano
noticed City Hall's HVAC unit is also slated to be replaced in 2030 and there may be opportunities to
combine the projects to get a better deal.
Mangano said the next step is to submit the budget through the city's software and then meet with the
City Manager's office. Paetzold asked if the library materials budget increase was adequate with all the
changes to vendors. Mangano said she played around with that number and didn't ask for more than
requested because she thinks we can negotiate with other vendors, noting the more you buy the better
the discount. Mangano said the digital materials expense line is going down because we changed the
way we repurchase expired licenses. Mangano said a lot of the money spent on digital materials in the
last couple years was used to repurchase expired licenses eBooks and eAudiobooks and we addressed
that through increasing the use threshold for individual titles. If we re -purchase everything, we're unable
to keep a current collection. Mangano said staff are also playing around with different models of cost
per circ with Overdrive. If someone makes a purchase suggestion, rather than buying a $120 dollar
audiobook, we might just make it available for the next two weeks to save money. Schweigel-Skeers
noted interest in how the library can lower the cost of materials. He asked for a run-through at a future
meeting on how the library could lower the cost of materials, digital and overall.
Matthews made a motion to approve the FY27 budget request. Boothroy seconded. Motion passed 7/0.
Review 1" Quarter Financials and Statistics.
Mangano noted the expenditure memo outlined items that were over and under spent. Mangano said
with the Baker & Taylor disruption we're behind on adding materials to the collection by 1,000
materials. Mangano noted the materials line was only 22% spent and she would prefer it to be at least
25% spent, or closer to 30% spent, in the first quarter of the year. Mangano said many of the digital
databases are spent at the beginning of year, and we are far behind purchasing physical materials, but
we will catch up. Matthews asked if the Baker & Taylor disruption affects pre -orders and asked if pre -
orders are paid for when they arrive. Mangano agreed. Matthews noted October, November, and April
are big publishing months. Mangano hopes to have it resolved by April.
Paetzold asked if there had been inquiries from the public about the waiting list. Mangano said no,
however Iowa Public Radio, The Gazette, and KCRG picked up the story from our website blog post,
which was also shared on social media.
Mangano asked if there were measurements trustees would like to see highlighted on the Output cover
sheet. Matthews appreciated the at -a -glance statistics.
Ghilcrist entered the meeting at 5:09 pm.
Matthews felt catalog access would be good to keep on the cover sheet as the library moves to the new
ILS (Integrated Library System) for comparison. Mangano said that catalog access could be kept on the
cover sheet. Matthews also asked for broad program attendance statistics on the cover sheet. Pilkington
said there were 1,200 programs and 49,000 attendances. Matthews said that was amazing, noting there
were 42,000 registered borrowers.
Patrick -Ferree noted there was a report on circulation by community and one of the lines noted schools
had zero circulation. Patrick -Ferree asked if these were circulations to schools or AIM cards. Mangano
said they were loans to schools. Royer said it was listed on page 51 of the packet. Paetzold noted the
AIM card numbers were low. Pilkington said they fluctuate. Matthews said school ID cards go out at a
certain time of year which is when librarians advertise the program. Pilkington said she tries to promote
the cards when school is not in session, so as not to replace school libraries. Matthews said some of the
librarians have backed off promoting the AIM cards because of legal unclarity, noting the statistics may
increase after school picture day.
Staff Reports.
Director's Report.
Mangano thanked everyone who attended the director's reception.
Mangano said she is working through a carpeting project timeline. Engberg Anderson made a phasing
document that outlines where the carpet is going to go when, and where each portion of furniture will
move (down to the chair), while it's implemented. Mangano said she is working through that document
to see what services we're offering, and what disruptions there will be, so we can communicate with the
public. Paetzold said one of Mangano's goals is to keep the library open while this is going on, and she
commends that. Mangano said that COVID taught us how to be nimble and we utilize those skills.
Paetzold said Engberg Anderson will present at next month's Board meeting. Mangano said they will
show the carpet tiles, the phases to expect, and the timeline. Fox asked if Mangano had a rough idea of
how long it will take. Mangano said 140 days. Raeburn clarified 140 working days. Mangano said
starting in April and ending in September. Mangano said the CIP funding was slated for this year and
that it is the earliest we can start, noting the architects are working quickly. Matthews asked if summer
reading would be on the Ped Mall. Pilkington shared she's been working with Parks & Rec and the
Senior Center to partner with their facilities. Pilkington said the children's room carpeting begins in June.
Pilkington said the architects do recognize that is the busiest time in the children's room, and the library
in general, so they plan to utilize meeting rooms A, B, &C. Pilkington said these rooms have been
blocked off for library use during the carpet renovation and will be multipurpose. Pilkington said we will
not have the same 49,000 program attendance numbers as we did this year.
Matthews asked if the bookshelves would need to be moved. Mangano agreed. Paetzold asked if they
could adjust the order in which they are doing the renovation to protect the children's room in the
summer. Pilkington said they ran several phasing models, and this was the best, and least disruptive.
Mangano said it was the fastest way to complete it. Pilkington said the carpets will be beautiful, we will
be nimble, we have the bookmobile, and we're already planning to do stories in the park with the
Bookmobile. Mangano said she's talked with community partners too about facilities and potentially
moving library services there. Pilkington said the theme for summer reading is Plant a Seed, noting
gardening can be done outside. Mangano said we're very lucky that Meeting Room A was recently
recarpeted and can be utilized.
Paetzold asked Mangano to speak about the September 29t" public input session on the library building.
Mangano said 35 people attended and she heard a variety of things people were looking at. The
architect showed some concepts such as expanding the children's room into the MERGE space and
adding a 3rd floor event space. Mangano shared she attended the Iowa Library Association conference
and learned how Cedar Rapids Public Library collected community feedback as they build a branch.
Cedar Rapids Public Library staff went to community groups throughout the city and engaged with
people there rather than in the library. They did multiple sessions, offered sessions in a variety of
languages, and talked to people to learn why they don't use the library. Mangano wants to take a step
back and talk to the architects, noting we met with 35 people in Meeting Room A to present concepts
that staff decided. Mangano thinks we hear more from the community. Mangano said now that the
budget and state report have been submitted, she envisions doing more of that next month.
Patrick -Ferree asked how much Mangano followed the process for a new pool at city park. Mangano
agreed that experience would be useful and shared Cedar Rapids Public Library went to their Parks &
Rec department to learn about their process. Mangano said Iowa City Parks & Rec has a master plan
that has been in place for over a decade and utilizing their skills to learn how they get out in the
community would be valuable. Mangano said the Communications Department has also invested
heavily in neighborhood associations and that would be an asset as well. Boothroy and Raeburn thought
it was a great idea.
Mangano talked with the architect to see if the building plan could be a long-term project done in
phases. Mangano said if the children's room becomes a priority, we could focus on that first and then
work towards another priority. Mangano said it would give us some goal posts to work towards.
Paetzold asked new trustees if they were familiar with the library's relationship with MERGE. Mangano
said when the library was built there was a bond issue that came up to build a library building. When
they took out the bond, to save money, the library decided not to use the whole block and put some of
it as a rental space (current MERGE location). The rental income received was then used to pay off the
bond. Mangano said the bond has since been paid off, noting it was rented by coffee shops and The
Wedge Pizzeria for a while. Mangano said the hope at the time, was when the bond was paid off, the
library could work towards moving into that rental space. Mangano said moving into that space has
always been the plan, and we are now at the 20-year mark of the plan to move into that space.
Mangano said when the library was the landlord for the restaurants the library also managed the
income for the rent, however now the City Manager's Office has taken over the control of renting the
space. Mangano said she thinks it is a good time to talk about a memorandum of understanding
between the Library Board of Trustees and the City Manager's Office, to determine how leases are
negotiated, the length of the leases, and making sure we're in conversation when leases are renewed.
Paetzold said the library still carries some responsibility as the landlord, sharing library facilities staff
manage the building maintenance. Patrick -Ferree asked who is getting the payment now that the bond
is paid off. Mangano said the City of Iowa City is.
Departmental Reports: Children's Services.
Pilkington shared on Tuesday there was a children's Halloween parade. Raeburn said it was delightful to
see the kids in their outfits. Boothroy said there was a little pandemonium, but it was fun. Pilkington
estimated there were 500 attendees and not everyone could fit in the library's meeting room space.
There was trick or treating and Pilkington said staff handed out 100 pounds of candy. Pilkington
thanked everyone who made a Halloween book cart, and the city departments that got involved.
Collection Services.
Mangano said applications have been received for the Collection Services Coordinator position and
there is a nice pool. Mangano said the new hire will have an opportunity to make the job their own
between the new ILS and new library material vendors.
Mangano happily reported that all the Baker & Taylor orders were moved to Ingram. Staff are looking to
identify other library material vendors, so we aren't reliant on a single vendor. Mangano said every
library in the United States is currently doing this too. Mangano is happy to see books coming in from
Ingram. Paetzold asked if Mangano was anticipating increased labor costs with the change in vendor
and the carpeting project. Mangano said staff are absorbing it at this point. Mangano was thankful for
the press around the change to help explain staff are doing the best they can. Patrick -Ferree noted the
former vendor, Baker & Taylor, was a state library vendor. Patrick -Ferree said the state has been drawing
back on services and local governments have been making cooperative agreements to try to get better
rates. Patrick -Ferree asked if ICPL had thought about going in with other Johnson County libraries or
larger libraries in the state. Mangano said she believes it will be discussed at the Public Libraries of
Johnson County meetings and will ask other IUPLA (Iowa Urban Public Library Association) libraries.
Mangano contacted the state library, and they have no plans to do an RFP for a new vendor.
IT.
Matthews asked if there are many requests for DVD players. Paulios said yes, and there are DVD players
for check out but they don't last very long and cost $40 on Amazon. Paulios said staff are pushing
people to use the public computers because there is unlimited time on them, and we have external
drives. Matthews said she hadn't seen a computer with an optical drive in a long time.
Development Report.
Roche said if trustees hadn't received fundraising appeals from the Friends Foundation she doesn't have
their address. If trustees wanted to see how mid -year and year end fundraising is handled, she can send
a letter to their address.
President's Report.
Paetzold said Inservice Day will be held December 121". Mangano said Inservice day celebrates employee
milestones and offers professional development training. Mangano said the architects are coming to
talk with staff about the building. Pilkington said the University of Iowa will be speaking about de-
escalation from the school of social work. Royer said there will also be a session on Voicing and
Listening in Times of Change, and on intellectual freedom. Paetzold asked trustees to come for all or
part of the day. Mangano said we try to tie Inservice Day to the strategic plan. Paetzold said the library
is closed that day to the public.
Paetzold reminded trustees the LOST vote will be November 4t"
Announcements from Members.
Foundation Updates.
Roche said the 990 form is in motion. There is a lot of action happening with the finance committee and
they are dialing in on the way financial reports are presented. Roche said this work is particularly
Important right now as we start to think about future long-term planning. We need to understand how
to sustain the operations of the foundation, perhaps invest in additional staffing for future campaigns or
marketing. The governance committee is looking at a few different policies important to the operation
of the foundation. They will be revisiting the investment policy and working on record retention on
annual basis.
Paetzold asked Roche to speak about the Book Gala. Roche said the Book Gala is a very fun and casual
fundraising event at Prairie Lights, where people can buy gifts for the holidays and benefit the library. It
typically rises from $800 to $1,200. Roche said the big event after that is the Arts & crafts Bazaar on
December 6t". Roche said crafters donate handmade items now, and welcome trustees to volunteer at
the event. Paetzold said the Book Gala attendees are library supporters.
Advocacy Updates.
Patrick -Ferree said a lot has happened with the State Historical Library situation, and it was in the news.
The Des Moines folks hired prison labor to move the materials from Iowa City to Des Moines. The first
day they were there it rained and there were many concerns expressed about how that would affect the
materials. A lawsuit was filed, saying that state law requires a location to exist in Iowa City suitable for
research. Patrick -Ferree said it does in plain language. There has not been a ruling on the restraining
order they were seeking to keep the materials that are currently in Iowa City here. Patrick -Ferree said it
is a fast-moving situation. The working group has put together a statement that is in draft form now but
can be available to approve at the next meeting. Patrick -Ferree said there were many concerning
developments but is hopeful the lawsuit will kick off some changes. Paetzold asked Patrick -Ferree when
we might hear something about the lawsuit, noting this seemed to happen rather spontaneously.
Patrick -Ferree said it can't have been that spontaneous because a contract needed to be in place.
Paetzold said it seemed spontaneous to the public. Patrick -Ferree hoped we would see information
soon about the restraining order. Matthews said the statement would be of solidarity.
Communications.
News Articles.
None.
Consent Agenda.
Boothroy made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda. Schweigel-Skeers seconded. Motion passed
7/0.
Set Agenda Order for November Meeting.
Paetzold said the November meeting has a scheduled meeting about the carpet discussion, and a
recommendation from the Bylaws Working Group. There was discussion about when the Library Board
should give a policy to legal for review. Paetzold said the November meeting will also review the
Collection Development policy. Patrick -Ferree noted the request for a presentation on how the
collection process works with digital and physical materials and asked if the presentation needed to be
done before reviewing the policy. Mangano said the Collection Development policy cedes purchasing
materials to the Collection Services staff, which won't change. Mangano said if trustees wanted the
collection presentation the policy schedule could be changed but also noted the policy is ready to go.
There was discussion on what order of events made sense. Mangano felt it wasn't necessary to alter the
schedule. Mangano thought the digital materials presentation could be in December or January, noting
the advocacy statement would need to be added to the agenda as well. Paetzold bringing in a new
Collection Services Coordinator is another variable. Matthews said the Collection Development Policy is
big picture. Mangano said the main discussion will be about the reconsideration process and artificial
intelligence. Schweigel-Skeers felt it could be kept on the November agenda. Mangano said it is a good
time to review the Collection Development policy as we go into the legislative session.
Adjournment.
Patrick -Ferree made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Matthews seconded. Motion passed 7/0. The
meeting adjourned at 5:54 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Jen Royer
,0� -r �t IOWA CITY
,*.g s PUBLIC LIBRARY
Board of Commissions: ICPL Board of Trustees
Attendance Record
Name
Term
Expiration
11/21/2024
12/19/2024
1/23/2025
2/27/2025
3/27/2025
4/3/2025
4/24/2025
5/22/2025
6/26/2025
7124/2025
8/28/2025
914/2025
9/25/2025
10123/2025
11/20/2025
Boothro , Bonnie
6/30/2029
X
X
OE
X
X
X
X
OE
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Fox Ellen
6/30/2027
X
X
X
Johnk DJ
6/30/2025
X
OE
OE
X
X
OE
X
X
OE
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
Massa Jose h
6/30/2027
OE
X
X
X
X
X
X
OE
X
X
X
X
X
OE
X
Matthews, Claire
6/30/2023
X
O
X
X
X
X
X
OE
O
X
X
X
X
X
OE
Paetzold Robin
6/30/2023
X
OE
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Patrick -Ferree Kelce
6/30/2031
X
X
X
X
X
X
Raeburn John
6/30/2027
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Rocklin Tom
6/30/2025
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
OE
X
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
Schwei el-Skeers Co
6/30/2031
X
X
X
X
X
X
Shultz Hannah
6/30/2025
X
X
OE
X
OE
X
X
X
X
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
TE
Stevenson Daniel
6/30/2027
X
X
X
X
OE
X
X
X
OE
X
R
R
R
R
R
IStrong, Kalmia
6/30/2031
1
1
1
1
1 X
X
I X
X
OE
X
KEY:
X Present
O Absent
OE Excused Absence
NM No Meeting Held
R Resigned
TE Term Expired
Item Number: 5.g.
I, CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
December 9, 2025
Parks & Recreation Commission: October 8 [See Recommendations]
Attachments: Parks & Recreation Commission: October 8 [See Recommendations]
r
��_..® CITY OF IOWA CITY
MEMORANDUM
Date: 11 /12/2025
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Staff Member of Parks and Recreation Commission
Re: Recommendation from Parks and Recreation Commission
At their October 8, 2025, meeting the Parks and Recreation Commission made the following
recommendations to the City Council:
• To move forward with the plan for City Park Pool operations as proposed by staff.
• To approve the adjusted recreation Fees and Charges for FY27 as proposed by staff.
Additional action (check one)
X No further action needed.
Board or Commission is requesting Council direction.
Agenda item will be prepared by staff for Council action.
IOWA CITY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION APPROVED
MINUTES OF OCTOBER 8, 2025
ROBERT A. LEE RECREATION CENTER — MEETING ROOM B
Members Present: Connie Moore, Brian Morelli, Virginia Hayes, Michael Gaunt,
Jeff Mallory, Alex Stanton
Members Absent: Missie Forbes, Rachel McPherson, Caleb Recker,
Staff Present: Juli Seydell Johnson, Tyler Baird, Brad Barker, Gabe Gotera,
Caylea Housh
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):
Moved by Stanton, seconded by Morelli, to recommend moving forward with the plan
proposed by staff for City Park Pool operations. Motion passed 6-0 (Forbes, McPherson,
and Recker absent).
Moved by Stanton, seconded by Mallory, to recommend approving the FY27 Recreation
Fees and Charles as presented. Motion passed 6-0 (Forbes, McPherson, and Recker
absent).
OTHER FORMAL ACTION:
Moved by Gaunt, seconded by Morelli, to approve the September 10, 2025, minutes.
Motion passed 5-0 (Forbes, Mallory, McPherson, and Recker absent).
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
October 8, 2025
Page 2 of 10
CITY PARK POOL OPERATIONS — Superintendent Brad Barker and Program
Supervisor Caylea Housh
Dir. Seydell Johnson introduces Superintendent Barker and Program Supervisor Housh, who will
be discussing the operations for City Park Pool. Seydell Johnson clarifies that tonight will create
the base that the hours, rules, and fees will be built up from.
Supt. Barker compares the proposed hours of operation to that of past years. Barker explains that
having three different pools would give a lot of options with how staff can program the space but
clarifies that the intent is to have City Park Pool open to the public as much as possible, within
the reason of budget and staff allocations. Barker highlights the following major changes:
- The Activity Pool will be a 0-depth-entry and will be the space getting use most from the
younger crowds at the pool. Open swim is proposed for 1 — 8 p.m. on most days for
consistency but would close at 5 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays due to swimming
lessons. In past years, the pool opened for lap swim at 1 p.m. on week days, 11 a.m. on
Sundays, and closed earlier on Saturdays due to pool rentals.
- The Deep Pool will be the diving well and has proposed hours similar to the Activity
Pool. The Deep Pool would have open swim from 1 — 8 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday,
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The Deep Pool would also close at 5 p.m. for swim lessons
on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
- The Lap Pool would have more varied hours of operations and would resemble the lap
lane swim hours that were offered previously. The Lap Pool will open for lap swim from
6:15 — 9 a.m., close for swim lessons, and continue lap swim from 11:45 a.m. — 2 p.m.
This would provide an additional 45 minutes of public lap swim every day. The Lap Pool
would transition to Open Swim at 2 p.m. but would keep two 50m lanes open for
exclusively lap swimming. This adds up to 46 additional hours each week where there are
at least two 50m lap lanes available to the public.
- Barker explains that there are blocks on the schedule where the pool appears closed but
clarifies that this is to keep options available to staff for recreation programming.
Supt. Barker explains that staff are currently in the midst of FY27 budget planning, and that what
is possible for hours of operation are dependent on resource and staff allocation. All considered,
staff feels comfortable that there will be enough funding to open with the hours proposed. This
first season will certainly be an opportunity for staff to see what does and doesn't work in the
new facility.
Supt. Barker says that there will likely be pre and post season hours. Barker explains that the
regular season would be considered when the school district is out for the summer and kids have
availability to go to the pool. Pre and post season hours would consist of reduced open swim
hours and increased lap swim hours during the week. The weekend hours would typically remain
unchanged.
Supt. Barker says that a question was received about keeping the Activity Pool open for water
walking in the morning. Barker explains that the proposed hours would see the Activity Pool
being used for swim lesson in the mornings but clarifies that the Lap Pool could be used for
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
October 8, 2025
Page 3 of 10
water walking during lap swim hours. The Lap Pool was designed to be shallow enough so that
patrons can utilize the 50 m pool for either water walking or lap swimming.
Vice Chair Morelli notes that there is a block in the middle of the day from 11:45 a.m. — 1 p.m.,
where the Activity Pool is closed while the Lap Pool remains open. Morelli asks why the
Activity Pool is closed for this period when the larger facility is open. Supt. Barker responds that
it is due to the amount of lifeguard staff necessary to cover an additional pool for an additional
hour and a quarter. Barker notes that this would be consistent with previous year's open swim
schedule, opening at 1 p.m. Barker clarifies that this does not rule out the possibility of
additional hours down the line, if there is enough demand. Barker notes that staff is wanting to
keep the Ip.m. opening time consistent, allowing staff to tell the public that the entire facility
opens at 1 p.m. The Lap Pool would have one more hour before four lanes transition to open
swim at 2 p.m. Commissioner Stanton asks this one hour different would make scheduling a
headache for the lifeguard staff. Program Supervisor Housh expects it to be easy because this
would be consistent with how lap swim operated in the past. Housh says that it may take some
time for the lifeguards to acclimate, but that the lifeguards will be trained to reference the
different hours for the different pools.
Commissioner Mallory arrives at 5:10 p.m.
Supt. Barker goes over the pool rules which are available in Arabic, English, French, Mandarin,
and Spanish. The rules are consistent across all three city pools to make it easier for patrons to
know that it is the same expectations for behavior no matter the location. This also makes it
easier on lifeguard staff who work at multiple locations.
Supt. Barker goes over the following updates to the general pool rules that will take effect next
season:
- Previously, only children 7th grade and up were allowed to be at the pool unattended. This
has changed to also include 6th graders. This change is after Southeast Junior High started
teaching the 6th grade. The rec center rules have already been updated to allow 61h graders
to have rec center facility passes.
- There will not be rentals of the entire facility. Previously, City Park Pool would close at 5
p.m. on Saturday evenings for any pool rentals, sometimes to the disdain of the public
looking to swim. Now, the 5 — 8 p.m. slot on Saturdays will be for public open swim.
- The lap lanes can be rented out to organized swim groups. Some examples would include
iFly, the Iowa City Community School District, and Iowa City Eels. The exact parameters
are lane rentals are only during lap swim time when there are six lanes available. Only
one group can rent lanes at a time, and each group can reserve a maximum of two lanes.
- The Deep Pool may be available for rental during the morning hours, if there is no
programming scheduled, such as a water fitness class. This would happen during lap
swim time, adding a new guard into the rotation.
Barker explains that this are the new schedule during normal circumstances, clarifying that the
Parks and Recreation Director could make some exceptions to the schedule when warranted.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
October 8, 2025
Page 4 of 10
Commissioner Mallory asks, historically, how popular were pool rentals at the old City Park
Pool. Program Supervisor Housh says that only half of the rentals offered would get reserved.
Housh adds that even if someone reserved the space online, sometimes they would never show
up. This wasn't very economically efficient with the lifeguarding staff. Even at indoor pools,
rentals would only get reserved about half of the time. Since then, it has been beneficial to have
groups reserve a room at an indoor pool and swim during open swim hours. Due to this success,
staff are looking to use this model at City Park Pool. People would be able to reserve the multi-
purpose room at the new City Park Pool, hang out in a private area, and still get to enjoy the
pool. Commissioner Stanton asks for confirmation that a party could just rent an individual room
at the pool, as opposed to renting the entire pool. Barker confirms this to be true.
Commissioner Hayes asks if there will still be reduced rates offered for evening swims. Supt.
Barker says that this is to be determined. Staff are discussing the options but have not made any
decisions yet.
Supt. Barker talks about organized groups and camps at the pool. It was a sore point for the
public on Thursday afternoons, when the pool was closed to the public except for organized
camps that has pre -registered with the facility. These camps would only be able to come on
Thursday afternoons. The idea was that having all camps come on one day increased the
enjoyment of the public for the rest of the week. This will change to have the pool open as usual
on Thursday afternoons. Now groups and camps can come on any day of the week but will have
to pre -register. There will likely be a set percentage of capacity that will accept groups up to that
point. This way, it will not be overwhelming on any given day.
Commissioner Stanton asks if a motion is made to use the proposed policies as a framework and
if it is found that changes need to be made down the line, would it be brought to the commission
to review. Supt. Barker confirms that this is accurate.
Commissioner Mallory, regarding Rule 15, where if there are 15 or less pool users for 60 minutes
or more, staff reserve the right to close, asks if this is a new or old rule. Program Supervisor
Housh explains that it this has been a rule since at least she was working as lifeguard. Housh
says that it doesn't happen often, and that staff try to avoid this. If it does happen, it is typically
towards the end of summer when temperature get cooler, children get ready for school, and
attendance drops.
Moved by Stanton, seconded by Morelli, to recommend moving forward with the plan
proposed by staff for City Park Pool operations. Motion passed 6-0 (Forbes, McPherson,
and Recker absent).
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
October 8, 2025
Page 5 of 10
FY27 USER FEES & CHARGES — Superintendent Brad Barker
Supt. Barker explains that staff typically propose any fee adjustments only every other year, and
that for the most part, will be true for FY27. FY26 saw a fee adjustment across the board, while
the only adjustments proposed for FY27 are regarding the daily pool admission fee and a deposit
fee for farmers market vendors.
Supt. Barker says that if you see any empty stalls at the Farmers Market, it is not for a lack of
interest. Typically, these are vendors not showing up, either withdrawing late, or no -call -no -
showing. When this happens, staff don't have time to reach out to other vendors that are
interested in the spot. This creates the following problems:
1) The poor aesthetic of empty stalls make it appear that there is a lack of interest of vendors
to come to the market.
2) It takes away an opportunity from another vendor that would have been interested in
attending.
3) It takes away revenue from the both the market and the department.
Typically, staff would collect the $25 vendor fee on the day of the market. Staff have tried to
have vendors pay in advance, but it quickly turns into a weekly puzzle to get the payments
beforehand. From both a staffing and vendor perspective, it's easier to collect the fees day of, but
if they don't show up, staff is unable to collect their fees. The new idea is to implement a $100
refundable deposit. For each instance that a vendor no -call -no-shows, staff will take $25 from the
refundable deposit. This allows the market to make revenue and the vendor to have bit more skin
in the game. At the end of the season, their remaining deposit balance will be refunded. Barker
state that there have been over 100 no -call -no-shows, leading to a couple thousand dollars in lost
revenue.
Vice Chair Morelli asks if currently, there are any penalties against someone if they don't show
up. Barker explains that the current penalty is that they will have to call in on Wednesday and
pay in advance to attend the market. The issue with this is that it depends on staff to be present
when they call. From an administration perspective, it would just be easier to take the $25 from
their deposit. If their entire deposit runs dry, they will be taken off the market for the rest of the
season.
Supt. Barker explains that staff are looking to increase the daily pool admission fee from $4 to
$5. The daily pool admission fee of $4 has not increased since the early 2010s. In the meantime,
there have been incremental adjustments to the prices of swim passes, but not the daily fee, as an
increase of $4 to $5 would be a 25% increase. Typically, staff would not make that large of a
price increase, but staff also tries to keep the prices to a flat dollar amount. This way patrons do
not have to deal with coins. Staff have found that from an operation perspective, the increase to
$5 is warranted, and when compared to other local options, is still very fair, competitive, and
affordable.
Supt. Barker states that the cost of the "10 Punch Pass" would also increase from $32 to $40,
making it buy eight punches, get two for free.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
October 8, 2025
Page 6 of 10
Vice Chair Morelli asks how much of the fees are a portion of the budget for the pool. Dir.
Seydell Johnson says that in 2024, City Park Pool brought in about $100,000 in revenue and that
the expenses were about $241,000. This makes it under 50%. Seydell Johnson clarifies that this
does not take into account season passes.
Vice Chair Morelli asks if the fee would restrict some people from attending. Is there anybody
that does not go to the pool due to the costs. Supt. Barker says that he does not know for the
people that don't attend, but notes that this was something addressed in the master plan,
particularly financial barriers for participation in programs. Staff tries to alleviate this as much as
possible. There is the RecAssist program, which would take 50% of the swim passes for those
that are income eligible. This would make the 30-day pass basically the cost of a few admissions
a month. Barker says that with the daily fee not adjusting for 15 years, he does not see the $5 fee
to be prohibitive to people any more than the $4 fee was.
Commissioner Stanton asks if the policy to remove someone from the market's season after their
deposit is run dry is listed in the market rules. Supt. Barker says that it is not currently, but that it
would be in the vendor handbook. The fee adjustment would make it possible to charge the $100
deposit. Stanton asks if it would be possible for a vendor to reup their deposit and miss more
than four markets. Barker says that the larger issue is that the vendor is repeatedly not giving
staff the courtesy of saying "I won't be able to make it".
Moved by Stanton, seconded by Mallory, to recommend approving the FY27 Recreation
Fees and Charges as presented. Motion passed 6-0 (Forbes, McPherson, and Recker
absent).
REPORTS ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF
Commissioner Hayes leaves at 5:33 p.m.
Parks and Recreation Director — Juli Seydell Johnson
Nothing
Parks and Forestry Superintendent — Tyler Baird
Projects: Supt. Baird announces that the summer park projects are mostly complete. Staff have
been communicating with the contractor and are waiting for the delivery of safety surfacing,
such as mulch, which would be installed in the parks. Baird says that the projects have turned out
nicely, encouraging the commissioners to revisit the park locations that they had toured in May
2025.
Tree Plantings: Supt. Baird says that staff have been busy with tree plantings, with only 50-60
trees left to plant in the rights -of -way near Pheasent Hill Park. Baird adds that staff had recently
planted 30 trees in the same neighborhood with the support of Big Grove Brewery. They funded
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
October 8, 2025
Page 7 of 10
the planting in conjunction with Trees Forever and the Rotary Clubs. Baird notes that Big Grove
Brewery has helped the department with multiple projects over the years.
Parks Maintenance: Supt. Baird discusses the maintenance on the grounds of the following
Parks:
- A new park shelter has been installed in Court Hill Park near the basketball court. The
shelter was of a new style. Staff were able to install it smoothly.
- The playground that was previously in Upper City Park has been moved to Lower City
Park, near the baseball fields. The playground was moved to make way for the renovated
City Park Pool, while keeping the recently new playground equipment still in use. Baird
says that he has already heard positive words from visitors using the baseball fields.
- Staff have been busy working on the Athletic Fields at both Napoleon Park and Iowa City
Kickers Soccer Park for the Fall sports, including soft ball, baseball, flag football, soccer,
and cross country meets.
- One of the parks crews have been working on the bridges in Hickory Hill Park. Some
have already been added with another one being added as part of the REAP grant project.
The new bridge will be wider than before, allowing for emergency services to get across.
This will also make the park more accessible to different areas.
Dir. Seydell Johnson announces that Supt. Baird was chosen to give a presentation at the
National Recreation and Park Association conference. Baird presented "Building the Forest
Through the Trees", regarding forestry. Seydell Johnson says that the presentation was well
attended and received many good comments from across the country.
Recreation Superintendent — Brad Barker
Events: Supt. Barker highlights the following recent and upcoming Recreation events:
- The "Get Outside!" festival was held several weeks prior at Lower City Park. This was
the third year the festival was hosted and had great turnout with good weather. The
festival is a great opportunity for people to explore different options of outdoor
recreation. There were around a dozen different partner groups that partook, each with
their own activity.
- On Oct. 12, 2025, at the Terry Trueblood Recreation Area, staff will be hosting an
Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration. There will be multiple stages, each with different
activities or crafts. The Recreation Division has been working with Great Plains Action
Network, from Sioux City, who has helped with financing for music, dancing, and spoken
word poetry. The event will require no attendance fee.
- There is a variety of different Halloween events.
o The Sensory Scare Fair, an event with sensory friendly Halloween-themed games
and activities. This was the second year that the event was held and had around
150 attendees.
o The Teen Mystery Night is a type of a dinner theater event.
o The Floating Pumpkin Patch, an event held in one of the indoor pools.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
October 8, 2025
Page 8 of 10
o The Halloween Carnival is the Recreation Division's big Halloween event, with
usually around 1,200 attendees, most in costume.
o The Halloween Market is a Halloween themed Farmers Market.
o The Tot Monster Mash is an event for young children to come out and play
different games and activities on Oct. 31.
Chair Moore asks if there is an itinerary for the Indigenous People Day Celebration. Supt. Barker
says that there is a tentative schedule of the different events that staff can send to her.
CHAIRS REPORT
None
COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS:
Commissioner Mallory says that he heard that earlier in the day, there were women who felt
unsafe in the woman's locker room at the Robert A. Lee Recreation Center. Dir. Seydell Johnson
says that staff are on taking the situation seriously, noting that that morning she had been
personally speaking with these women on the subject. Seydell Johnson adds that staff have been
in contact with the police department and have additional meetings setup.
Commissioner Stanton thanks Supt. Barker and the larger Parks and Recreation team for hosting
the open -meeting training at the Terry Trueblood Lodge. Stanton says that he is excited to attend
the upcoming Halloween Carnival, having brought his family in past years.
Vice Chair Morelli says that he watched Parks staff install the shelter in Court Hill Park, noting
that it was fun to watch the crews work and that the shelter looks great. Morelli says that it is
cool to see all the different events that Recreation hosts, especially ones that encourages people
to explore new ways to get outside.
Chair Moore says that she is loves Hickory Hill Park and is glad to see the bridges and trails
being maintained and improved.
Commissioner Mallory wants to recognize the Robert A. Lee custodian, Spencer, for changing
the locks in the men's locker room, allowing for more use of the larger lockers. Mallory says that
he spoke to Spencer about it and that it was addressed within two days. Dir. Seydell Johnson
thanks Mallory, noting that his appreciation has been passed along to Spencer and the
Government Buildings division.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
October 8, 2025
Page 9 of 10
ADJOURNMENT:
Moved by Mallory, seconded by Morelli, to adiourn the meeting at 5:46 p.m. Motion passed
5-0 (Forbes, Haves, McPherson, and Recker absent).
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
October 8, 2025
Page 10 of 10
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
NAME
N
o
N
0
N
0
N
0
N
0
N
0
N
0
N
0
kn
N
0
kn
N
0
kn
N
0
kn
N
0
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
TERM
EXPIRES
Missie
12/31/25
O/E
NM
X
NM
X
X
X
NM
O/E
O/E
X
O
Forbes
Michael
12/31/28
*
*
X
NM
X
X
X
NM
X
X
X
X
Gaunt
Virginia
12/31/27
O/E
NM
X
NM
X
X
O/E
NM
X
X
O/E
X
Hayes
Jeff
12/31/28
*
*
X
NM
X
X
O/E
NM
X
O/E
X
X
Mallory
Rachel
12/31/26
X
NM
O/E
NM
X
O/E
X
NM
X
X
X
O/E
McPherson
Connie
12/31/25
X
NM
X
NM
X
X
X
NM
X
X
X
X
Moore
Brian
12/31/25
X
NM
X
NM
X
X
X
NM
X
X
O/E
X
Morelli
Caleb
12/31/26
X
NM
X
NM
X
O/E
O/E
NM
X
O/E
X
O/E
Recker
Alex
12/31/27
X
NM
O/E
NM
X
X
X
NM
X
O/E
X
X
Stanton
KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused NM = No meeting
LQ = No meeting due to lack of quorum * = Not a member during this meeting
Item Number: 5.h.
a
CITY OF IOWA CITY
"QF T-4 COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
December 9, 2025
Planning & Zoning Commission: November 5 [See Recommendations]
Attachments: Planning & Zoning Commission: November 5 [See Recommendations]
r
��_..® CITY OF IOWA CITY
R&
MEMORANDUM
Date: November 20, 2025
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Anne Russett, Senior Planner
Re: Recommendations from the Planning and Zoning Commission
At its November 5, 2025 meeting, the Planning and Zoning Commission have the following
recommendation to the City Council:
By a vote of 6-0 the Commission recommends approval of REZ25-0014, a rezoning of 13.60
acres of land from Interim Development — Research Park (ID -RP) zone to Medium Density
Single -Family Residential (RS-8) for 4.75 acres and Rural Residential (RR-1) for 8.85 acres.
By a vote of 6-0 the Commission recommends approval of SUB24-0005, an application
submitted by Tailwind North Dubuque LLC for a combined preliminary and final plat of Cole Hill,
a 2.84-acre subdivision to create one residential lot to accommodate an existing single-family
home.
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
NOVEMBER 5, 2025 —6:00 PM —FORMAL MEETING
E M M A J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Kaleb Beining, James Davies, Steve Miller, Scott Quellhorst, Billie
Townsend, Chad Wade
MEMBERS ABSENT: Maggie Elliott
STAFF PRESENT: Alex Bright, Sam Brodersen, Anne Russett
OTHERS PRESENT: Gina Landau, Jon Marner
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
By a vote of 6-0 the Commission recommends approval of REZ25-0014, a rezoning of 13.60
acres of land from Interim Development — Research Park (ID -RP) zone to Medium Density
Single -Family Residential (RS-8) for 4.75 acres and Rural Residential (RR-1) for 8.85 acres.
By a vote of 6-0 the Commission recommends approval of SUB24-0005, an application
submitted by Tailwind North Dubuque LLC for a combined preliminary and final plat of Cole Hill,
a 2.84-acre subdivision to create one residential lot to accommodate an existing single-family
home.
CALL TO ORDER:
Quellhorst called the meeting to order at 6:00 PM.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
REZONING ITEM:
CASE NO. REZ25-0014:
Location: West of Ava Circle and south of Kennedy Parkway
An application for a rezoning of approximately 13.6 acres of land from Interim Development
Research Park (ID -RP) zone to Medium Density Single -Family (RS-8) zone for approximately
4.75 acres and Rural Residential (RR-1) zone for approximately 8.85 acres.
Brodersen began the staff report sharing an aerial map and zoning map of the subject property.
The property is currently zoned Interim Development Research Park, to the north is an
undeveloped area of the city of Coralville, to the south is Deer Creek Road SE and Highway 218,
to the east is Low Density Single -Family Residential with the Planned Development Overlay and
Interim Development Research Park and to the west is Interim Development Research Park
zoning. For some background on this case Brodersen stated this rezoning request is the next
phase of the overall Cardinal Point West development that has been in development, between
2015 and 2021 71.84 acres of surrounding land has already been rezoned and subdivided in
order to accommodate similar patterns of development. This application is requested to rezone
the subject property from Interim Development Research Park to Medium Density Single -Family
Residential (RS-8) for 4.75 acres and Rural Residential (RR-1) for 8.85 acres, with the goal of
developing the RS-8 area with 19 single family dwellings and leaving the RR-1 area undeveloped
Planning and Zoning Commission
November 5, 2025
Page 2 of 6
to preserve sensitive features. The rezoning is needed to allow uses that are not allowed in the
current zoning designation.
The applicant has hosted a good neighbor meeting on October 22 there were three attendees.
These attendees had questions regarding the plan and vision for the subject parcel. Brodersen
shared some photos of the project site and the surrounding areas. He reiterated that the subject
property is currently zoned Interim Development Research Park which is not compatible with the
existing neighborhood, which is a mix of single family homes, townhomes and multifamily
residences. The request is to rezone it to Medium Density Single -Family Residential and Rural
Residential and the RS-8 zoning designation will allow for single family residential uses on
smaller lots. Additionally, the request for Medium Density Single -Family Residential and Rural
Residential is more consistent with the current zoning pattern and City services are available to
service the proposed development. Again, the Rural Residential areas will remain undeveloped
in order to preserve sensitive areas.
Brodersen explained that the City uses two criteria to review all rezonings, first is consistency
with the Comprehensive Plan and second is compatibility with the existing neighborhood.
Looking at the Future Land Use Map from the IC2030 Comprehensive Plan the subject area is
designated for conservation design, which aligns with the requested rezoning. Additionally, the
Comprehensive Plan has a list of goals and strategies that align with this request such as to
guide development away from sensitive features, to encourage a diversity of housing options, for
the development of housing options on smaller lots that conserve land and allow for more
affordable single family housing. Brodersen also noted the subject parcel is located within the
Clear Creek Master Plan which lays out a general development concept with possible street
layouts and shows areas for residential, commercial and office development. As previously
mentioned, the Future Land Use Map identifies this area as appropriate for conservation design
and the proposed rezoning aligns with the conservation design vision as conservation design is
intended to be appropriate for areas containing steep slopes, woodlands and other sensitive
features, it's intended to have building sites identified to take advantage of the preserved land,
and the intention is for development to be more compact with less pavement and more open
space than conventional development. In terms of compatibility with the existing neighborhood
Brodersen stated there are a variety of housing types, including single family dwellings,
townhouses and multifamily housing in the area, this rezoning is the next phase in the overall
Cardinal Point West development and the current Interim Development Research Park zoning is
not compatible with the existing neighborhood, as it only allows agriculture by right. Interim
Development Research Park zoning designation is intended to be a default zoning designation
until City services are available and City services are available to service the proposed
development so the Interim Development Research Park zoning is no longer appropriate.
Brodersen stated that staff received no correspondence related to this rezoning request.
Staff recommends the approval of REZ25-0014, a rezoning of 13.60 acres of land from Interim
Development — Research Park (ID -RP) zone to Medium Density Single -Family Residential (RS-
8) for 4.75 acres and Rural Residential (RR-1) for 8.85 acres.
In terms of next steps, City Council will schedule the date for the public hearing at the next
Council meeting on November 18, following that, they will consider the rezoning at future
meetings.
Planning and Zoning Commission
November 5, 2025
Page 3 of 6
Davies asked if the Clear Creek Master Plan is something that's publicly available or is that part
of a Comprehensive Plan. Russett explained it is not available on the City's website, staff does
have it available by request, it was something that was done in collaboration with the city of
Coralville several years ago.
Davies noted it says 19 houses will be there, is there any kind of delineation, are those all in the
RS-8 or is the intent to spread them between the RS-8 and the RR-1. Brodersen stated the
request is to place the dwellings in the RS-8 area, which is in the northern area of the parcel, the
RR-1 zoning is planned to remain undeveloped.
Quellhorst opened the public hearing.
Gina Landau (Navigate Homes) is here on behalf of the owner, Crossing Land, LLC which is a
break off from SouthGate and are doing the development part. She confirmed the developer's
request is for a rezoning so they can build 19 single family homes.
Quellhorst closed the public hearing.
Townsend moved to recommend the approval of REZ25-0014, a rezoning of 13.60 acres of
land from Interim Development — Research Park (ID -RP) zone to Medium Density Single -
Family Residential (RS-8) for 4.75 acres and Rural Residential (RR-1) for 8.85 acres.
Miller seconded the motion.
Townsend noted it seems that this is land that's vacant and they need housing, they also seem
to be smaller and not huge homes, so it sounds like the proper thing for her.
Davies noted they don't have a lot of information on how the land will be sited but he assumes
that gets taken care of. He also noted it seems like the Good Neighbor meeting was mostly
about wanting to retain some trees as a buffer to 218 and if there's really no planned
development for the RR-1 that would retain the trees and buffer so he is generally supportive of
the plan and the rezoning.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 6-0.
SUBDIVISION ITEM:
CASE NO. SUB24-0005:
Location: 620 Foster Road
An application for a combined preliminary and final plat for Cole Hill, a 2.84-acre subdivision to
create one residential lot to accommodate an existing single-family home
Russett began the staff report showing an aerial map of the property, the house at the center is
the property that's located at 620 Foster Road, the land to the north is undeveloped and then
Interstate 80 is to the north with Foster Road to the south. The subject property is zoned RS-12
with a Planned Development Overlay and the surrounding area is also zoned mainly Single
Family with a Planned Development Overlay, and some multifamily to the south. In terms of
Planning and Zoning Commission
November 5, 2025
Page 4 of 6
background, this property has never been subdivided, it was rezoned to the Planned
Development Overlay RS-12 in 2019 as part of the larger Forest View Development project.
Russett explained that development never moved forward and then the land was sold to Tailwind
North Dubuque LLC, who is the applicant. Russett stated the rezoning conditions that were
applied to the rezoning in 2019 still apply to the subject property but the goal tonight is to carve
off a piece of that land that Tailwind owns for the homeowner, the home is owned by a different
entity so they need to create a lot that can be reverted back to the owner of the of the house that
exists there.
Russett shared the combined preliminary and final plat noting again there's one lot that's
proposed with this subdivision, which again is to accommodate the existing residence. In terms
of the Comprehensive Plan, the IC2030 Comprehensive Plan and the North District Plan both
identify this as appropriate for conservation design, and the land was rezoned to that RS-12
designation several years ago. There are environmentally sensitive areas on the subject
property, but this is exempt from the Sensitive Areas Ordinance as there's no development
proposed and construction of single family or two family homes are exempt if development does
not exceed 20,000 square feet, which is the case here.
Staff recommends approval of SUB24-0005, an application submitted by Tailwind North
Dubuque LLC for a combined preliminary and final plat of Cole Hill, a 2.84-acre subdivision to
create one residential lot to accommodate an existing single-family home.
In terms of next steps, after a recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission, this
would go to City Council for consideration at their next meeting.
Quellhorst asked if currently the home and the land are actually owned by two separate entities.
Russett explained the land is owned by Tailwinds and the house is Ed Cole's house. Ed Cole
was previously involved in the development of the land when it was the Forest View project but
he isn't involved in the development moving forward. Therefore, the goal is to carve off a piece of
that land so he can separate the house from any development that may move forward someday
for the rest of the land.
Davies asked about the road and timing and responsibility as it seems integral to the access to
the development to the north. Russett stated it would be required to be extended if development
were to occur to the north. The property at 620 Foster Road will still have access from Foster
Road so they don't need an extension of Algonquin to access their home.
Quellhorst opened the public hearing.
Jon Marner (MMS Consultants) is representing the developer and reiterated the intent here is to
create one parcel for the existing home. Tailwind currently owns it the land so this would allow for
the transfer of that property back to Ed Cole and still establish guidelines and all the necessary
measures for Tailwind to continue to proceed with their plans for development. Marner noted the
application for that development is in and they are working with City staff and the DOT on the
traffic study and all the other things that are required with the intent is to continue to move that
forward.
Townsend noted the whole Forest View area was set aside for affordable housing at one point so
Planning and Zoning Commission
November 5, 2025
Page 5 of 6
is this new proposal going to include affordable housing. Marner stated he can't speak to that,
whenever that next application comes before the Planning and Zoning Commission and Council
all of those plans and any agreements would be addressed at that time. The goal for this
application is to just establish that initial lot since Ed Cole is not involved with the Tailwind group
on that future development the goal is to create that parcel for his house and then Tailwind can
continue with their application.
Quellhorst closed the public hearing.
Wade moved to recommend approval of SUB24-0005, an application submitted by
Tailwind North Dubuque LLC for a combined preliminary and final plat of Cole Hill, a 2.84-
acre subdivision to create one residential lot to accommodate an existing single-family
home.
Davies seconded the motion.
Wade noted this is pretty straightforward, splitting off that lot for the private residence and it
sounds like access is still on the private drive but could connect to Algonquin if it ever needs to
for access in the future.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 6-0.
CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: OCTOBER 15 2025:
Townsend moved to approve the meeting minutes from October 15, 2025. Wade seconded the
motion, a vote was taken and the motion passed 6-0.
PLANNING AND ZONING INFORMATION:
Russett noted the updated flood plain amendments that were presented to the Commission
several weeks ago were recently adopted by City Council.
ADJOURNMENT:
Townsend moved to adjourn, Miller seconded and the motion passed 6-0.
PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2024-2025
914
9118
11120
1214
2119
3/5
5/7
6/4
6118
712
7116
816
8127
9/3
10115
11/5
B E I N I N G, KA L E B
-- --
-- --
-- --
-- --
-- --
-- --
-- --
-- --
-- --
X
O
X
X
O
O
X
DAVIES, JAMES
-- --
-- --
-- --
-- --
-- --
-- --
-- --
-- --
-- --
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
CRAIG, SUSAN
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
-- --
-- --
-- --
-- --
-- --
-- --
-- --
ELLIOTT, MAGGIE
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
HENSCH, MIKE
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
X
X
O/E
X
X
QUELLHORST, SCOTT
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
TOWNSEND, BILLIE
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
WADE, CHAD
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
KEY:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
--- = Not a Member