HomeMy WebLinkAbout1996-02-27 Bd Comm minutesMINUTES
RIVERFRONT AND NATURAL AREAS COMMISSION
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 1995 ~ 7:30 PM
CIVIC CENTER - CONFERENCE ROOM
MEMBERS PRESENT: Sue Chase, Cortney Daniels, Nancy English, Richard Hoppin, Les
Kuehl, Jessica Neary, Donald Otto, Jim Pugh, Larry Wilson
MEMBERS ABSENT: John Pelton, Catherine Pugh
STAFF PRESENT: Charles Denney, James Erwin
CALL TO ORDER, INTRODUCTIONS, AND ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Chairman Kuehl called the meeting to order at 5:35 PM.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA:
Jessica Neary announced her intention to resign from the Commission following the January
meeting. She said that working on the Commission had been enjoyable and rewarding. She
indicated that she was moving to California,
Kuehl noted that there were openings on several City Commissions.
CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES OF THE OCTOBER 18 AND NOVEMBER 15, 1995,
MEETINGS:
Wilson and Pugh both indicated they had corrections to the October 18 minutes. Hoppin noted
that a passage on the last page should read "C. Pugh motioned".
MOTION: C. Pugh moved to approve the minutes of the October 18 meeting. Chase
seconded. The motion was carried by a vote of 8-0.
MOTION: Otto moved to approve the minutes of the November 15 meeting. Hoppin seconded.
The motion was carried by a vote of 8-0.
RIVER CORRIDOR TRAIL UPDATES:
1. IMU Bridqe to Iowa Avenue. Denney noted the City Council had approved plans for the
River Corridor Trail, and that bids on the project would be opened in January. He noted
that the City Engineer had been directed to look into possible other sites for borings,
including the Iowa Interstate Railroad embankment at Mormon Trek Boulevard and the
Pine Street tunnel, as having boring equipment in Iowa City could result in cost
savings.
2. Burlinqton Street to Hiclhway 6. Denney indicated that plans should be completed
soon,
Riverfront & Natural Areas Commission
December 20, 1996
Page 2
Hiqhwav 6 to Naooleon Park. Dennay indicated that Iowa City's application for
Statewide Transportation Enhancement funding was still pending.
Willow Creek Trail. Dennay noted there was a possibility of connecting with the
Galway Hills subdivision. He said that plans should be ready in January, and that Iowa
City would likely request local Transportation Enhancement funding.
Denney said that Iowa City was pursing construction of a trail over the Iowa River
Power Company Dam, and had approached Coralville about a cost sharing agreement,
but that there had been no commitment yet from Coralville. Kuehl said that he could
speak to the Coralville Council as a representative of the Commission.
UPDATE ON DEVELOPMENT ITEMS:
Dennay'noted that the Sensitive Areas Ordinance had been passed by the City Council. He
said tha[ three site plans had already been affected in the past week. Pugh asked if the
development plan adjacent to the Johnson County Fairgrounds would be affected. Denney
replied that it was difficult to tell at this point. Dennay then noted that the Department of
Public Works was taking the Sensitive Areas Ordinance seriously. He then said that
consultants were preparing a report on storm water management basins in the southeast
quadrant of Iowa City.
ELECTION OF COMMISSION OFFICERS:
Kuehl announced his intention to step down as Chairperson. He noted that it was difficult to
perform effectively as Chairperson of the Commission and maintain his workload. Wilson
asked if the voting would be by open ballot. Denney indicated that the City Attorney's Office
had raised concerns in the past regarding a vote by secret ballot. J. Pugh agreed to serve as
Chairperson. He commented in passing that issues should be discussed more thoroughly
before meetings.
IVlOTION: English moved to nominate J. Pugh as Chairperson of the Riverfront and Natural
Areas Commission. Chase seconded.
Discussion.
There was none.
IVIOTION: Otto moved to close nominations. Hoppin seconded. J. Pugh was elected
Chairperson of the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission by a vote of 8-0.
MOTION: Otto moved to nominate Daniels as Vice-Chairperson. English seconded.
Discussion.
Riverfront & Natural Areas Commission
December 20, 1996
Page 3
Daniels remarked that she had concerns over the amount of time required. She indicated that
she would likely step down should the position prove too time-consuming. The Commission
was in general agreement. J. Pugh suggested that tyro persons could jointly hold the position.
Kuehl noted that proper delegation of tasks would prevent any real problems from occurring.
MOTION: Wilson moved to close nominations. Otto seconded. Chase was elected Vice-
Chairperson of the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission by a vote of 8-0.
DISCUSSION OF COMMISSION'S GOALS AND DIRECTION:
Daniels noted that she had submitted a memorandum about the December 5 meeting outlining
a regular yearly schedule for the Commission. Denney then added that the bylaws of the
Commission were included in the packets for the meeting. He said that the new City Directory
would be available in January or February and that it provides the names and phone numbers
of key City staff and other Board and Commission members as requested.
Daniels said that the Commission needed to increase its visibility. J. Pugh noted certain people
volunteered for the Planning and Zoning Commission or the Parks and Recreation Commission
that might have volunteered for the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission had the
Comm~ssion's visibility been higher. He said there was a need to educate new members. He
then noted that many saw the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission as lacking the power
of the Parks and Recreation or Planning and Zoning Commissions because ~t has no direct
funding or budget recommendation responsibilities. Daniels asked how funding is determined.
Denney replied that the City staff prepares annual budgets for consideration by the City
Council in February. J. Pugh noted that other Commissions were similarly overlooked. Chase
asked if the Commission could apply for a grant, as it was not funded regularly by the City.
Denney said that the Commission could not, but that it could ask City staff to assist in
drawing up a budget request for specific projects. He noted that the City Council has
approved a number of initiatives recommended by the Commission recently, including trail
projects and the Sensitive Areas Ordinance. Also, the RNAC activities are included in the
Urban Planning Division budget.
Kuehl noted that he approved of the calendar outlined in the memorandum from Daniels.
Daniels said that an orientation guidebook would be helpful to new members of the
Commission, which could possibly include the bylaws and open meeting rules. Kuehl asked
if an executive meeting could be held in January to draw up a guidebook. Pugh agreed, saying
that executive meetings were often productive. Daniels suggested that a standing steering
committee would be a good idea. Pugh thought such a committee could initiate and oversee
~mportant projects. Danmls said she could set a time for discussion. Daniels then suggested
that the Commission should consider a retreat. Wilson noted that retreats were good for
brainstorming goals and methods. Pugh then suggested that the same productivity could come
from a longer evening meeting. Wilson noted that focus was the important ~ssue. Daniels said
that ideas could be brainstormed and then worked on by small groups. Daniels noted that
attendance was the important issue. Wilson suggested that reminder memoranda could be
sent out, and if a member of the Commission missed three meetings in a row, the Commission
could take action. Pugh noted that there was no point m scheduling meetings without a
quorum, and that the issue could be further discussed at the retreat.
Riverfront & Natural Areas Commission
December 20, 1996
Page 4
FIRST REPORT:
Denhey noted that FIRST and Bicyclists of Iowa City were working on a bikeways map for the
Iowa City/Coralville area. One side of the map would include trails and on-street bike routes,
the other side of the map will have information on parks, bicycle safety, and other related
topics. He said that funding would either come from a joint effort of the two cities, from
advertising or some combination of the two. Wilson asked if the Commission could fund the
project itself. Daniels asked if there was any other way for the Commission to connect itself
with the map project. Denney noted there had not yet been a formal request for funds. He
noted that the Commission could help support the project and gain recognition on the map if
Iowa City participated in funding the project.
ADJOURNMENT:
IVIOTION: Pugh moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:00 PIVi, Chase seconded. The motion was
carried by a vote of 8-0.
Minutes submitted by James Erwin.
MINUTES
RIVERFRONT AND NATURAL AREAS COMMISSION
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 1996 - 5:30 P.M.
CIVIC CENTER - COUNCIL CHAMBERS
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Sue Chase, Cortney Daniels, Richard Hoppin, Jessica Neary, Don
Otto, Rex Pruess, Jim Pugh, Larry Wilson
MEMBERS ABSENT:
Nancy English, Les Kuehl, Catherine Pugh
STAFF PRESENT:
Charles Denney, Jeff Hating
OTHERS PRESENT:
Nancy Seiberling
CALL TO ORDER, INTRODUCTIONS, AND ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Chairperson J. Pugh called the meeting to order at 5:34 p.m.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA:
The Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission granted Commission member Jessica Neary a
Certificate of Appreciation for her dedication and guidance in protecting, preserving and
enhancing the natural features of Iowa City.
J. Pugh said he is attempting to arrange a steering committee meeting concerning the Com-
mission calendar and goals and direction. J. Pugh said nothing had yet been arranged, but
he would keep people notified if anything were to progress in that direction.
J. Pugh noted that the City Council will be discussing budget considerations next Tuesday,
January 23, 1996 (see memorandum dated Jan. 10, 1996). Each of the City's Boards and
Commissions have been invited to make an appeal for budget considerations at that time,
Denney noted that Commission activities are included in the Urban Planning Division Budget.
Denney noted that if the Commission has any special budget requests, those should be
presented on January 23, Denney pointed out that the Council has supported projects, such
as the Iowa River Corridor Trail, advocated by the Commission.
J. Pugh noted that there has been greater interest on the part of the Commission, to take
more field trips to become more knowledgeable about areas of concern around Iowa City, as
well as to learn more about things of concern to the Commission. Nothing further was
discussed along these lines.
J. Pugh suggested that video and slide presentations be held at the beginning of meetings,
rather than at the end. J. Pugh feels this will give everyone time to have coffee and treats,
should there be any, before the meeting has progressed too far. There were no comments.
Riverfront & Natural Areas Commission
January 17, 1996
Page 2
CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES FROM THE DECEMBER 20, 1995, MEETING:
MOTION: Daniels moved to defer consideration of the minutes from the December 20, 1995,
meeting of the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission, until the February, 1996, meeting
of the Commission. Chase seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0.
(Wilson arrived at 5:48 p.m.)
PRESENTATION OF THE HERITAGE TREE PROGRAM:
Nancy Seiberling, representing the Heritage Tree Program of Iowa City, was present.
Seiberling handed out tour guides, which are packets of brochures on tree walks throughout
various parts of the city. Seiberling briefed the Commission on the concept of the Heritage
Tree Program. Seiberling says the program will require a systematic approach to succeed that
will consist of surveying of trees throughout the community, consciousness raising, and fund
raising. Seiberling says the City Forestry Department and the Parks and Recreation Division
are aware of the program, but little has been done within the City to evaluate and implement
such a program. Seiberling noted that the city of Cedar Rapids Forestry Division spends
upwards of $12 per capita, whereas Iowa City spends only about 93.25 per capita.
The Commission felt something should be done to raise awareness, possibly in conjunction
with Arbor Day on April 26, 1996. Wilson noted there is an annual Arborist Conference, held
at I.S.U. in the spring, and he would bring information to the next meeting. It was also
brought up that River Month could be more all-encompassing, perhaps titled "Natural Areas
Month", and the topic can change from year-to-vear. The Commission agreed and expressed
a desire to discuss the issue in more detail at a future meeting.
Rex Pruess was introduced as the new Parks and Recreation Commission representative to
the Commission.
PRESENTATION ON SOUTH AREA STUDY:
Denney reminded the Commission of the memorandum the Commission members received
last month on this subject. Denhey displayed a map of the area in question. Denney said the
intent of this notification is to receive citizen input on the vision for the area, before things
have progressed too far and direction of development is left up to the developers. Denney
sa~d this input will help in creating a revised comprehensive plan for the area, which is a set
of policy guidelines that assist in shaping future development.
Pruess said he is aware that residents of the Pepperwood Neighborhood area would like to see
an east-west trail installed along the back lot lines of residences on the south s~de of Burns
Avenue, running to and through Wetherby Park. Denney noted that one thing staff is attempt-
ing to develop is a more nee-traditional method of development for the area. Denney said
nee-traditional development consists of a more grid-like street plan, and centrally located
neighborhood commercial centers that provide the everyday necessities, like groceries, barber
shops, etc., all on a smaller, more neighborhood-friendly scale. Denney said this item will
appear before the Commission again before any final recommendations are made.
Riverfront & Natural Areas Commission
January 17, 1996
Page 3
The Commission indicated that they were glad to see that Planning for this part of the City
was taking place before development occurred. The Commission encouraged the creation of
open spaces and greenways in an interconnected system, as opposed to isolated areas of
open space.
REPORT FROM THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE:
Daniels said J. Pugh and herself had talked on the telephone, but did not accomplish much
due to the absence of other Committee members as a result of the Holidays. Daniels suggest-
ed the Committee meet at the conclusion of this meeting, to set a time to meet. Daniels
hopes to have a calendar of pending items drawn up, in the near future.
RIVER CORRIDOR TRAIL UPDATES:
IMU BridGe to Iowa Avenue. Denhey said the project would be bid before the end of
the month,
Burlington Street to Hiclhwav 6. Denhey said he received the revised plans back from
the consultant, and these have been forwarded on to the Engineering Division,
Hiqhwav 6 to Napolean Park. Denney said this item will be considered by the Trans-
portation Commission on February 6, 1996. Denney said he has not received one
word from the IDOT since he submitted the application.
4. Willow Creek Trail. Final plans are being reviewed.
UPDATE ON DEVELOPMENT ITEMS:
Denney discussed a proposed amendment to the Sensitive Areas Ordinance to allow
consideration of development activities on previously altered protected slopes. These are
slopes created by cutting and filling activities.
Denney also said that the first Sensitive Areas Development plan has been received and is
being reviewed. The property is located at 517 S. Linn Street. Approval of the plan would
require approval of the previously mentioned ordinance amendment.
COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS:
There was none.
F.I.R.S.T. REPORT:
There was none.
Riverfront & Natural Areas Commission
January 17, 1996
Page 4
ADJOURNMENT:
MOTION: Otto moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:12 p.m.. Wilson seconded. The motion
carried on a vote of 8-0.
MINUTES
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
JANUARY 10 , 1996
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Jana Egeland, Judith Klink, Deb Liddell, Bruce
Maurer, Matt Pacha, Rex Pruess, Alan Stroh, Ross
Wilburn
STAFF PRESENT:
Melody Rockwell, Bob Howell, Marilyn Kriz, Mike
Moran, Terry Trueblood
FORMAL
ACTION
TAKEN:
FUTURE
MTGS.:
P&R
FOUNDA-
TION
APPT.:
RNAC
APPT.:
NOS
TASK
FORCE:
Moved by Klink, seconded by Pacha, to aDprove the December 13,
1995 minutes as written. Unanimous.
Moved by Pruess, seconded by Wi!burn, to elect Matt Pacha as
Chair, Jana Egeland= as Vice Chair, and Bruce Maurer as
Secretary/Treasurer of the Parks and Recreation Foundation Board
of Directors. unanimous.
The commission discussed next month's meeting time and changing
the date of the March meeting. It was agreed to change next
month's meeting time to 5:00 p.m., and the commission's meeting
in March to March 6. Liddell stated officially changing the
commission's monthly meeting time from 5:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
will be voted on at next month's meeting° Pruess stated he
would not be able to attend the February meeting, but supported
this change.
Liddell stated the Parks and Recreation Foundation 'Board of
Directors is to consist of four members of the commission, along
with up to seven additional members from the general public.
Pacha briefly described the primary purpose of the foundation.
Liddell indicated Egeland, Maurer and Pacha are presently
serving on the Board, and recommended the following slate of
officers: Pacha, Chair; Egeland, Vice Chair; Maurer,
Secretary/Treasurer. Moved b~ Pruess, seconded by Wilburn, to
elect Matt Pacha as Chair, Jana Egeland as Vice Chair, and Bruce
Maurer as Secretary/Treasurer of the Parks and Recreation
Foundation Board of Directors. Unanimous. Liddell stated the
remaining appointment would be made at next month's meeting.
Liddell stated a commission member needed to be appointed to the
Riverfront and NaturalAreas Commission. She also asked for one
or two volunteers to serve as substitutes. Wilburn and Klink
volunteered to serve as substitutes, with Pruess volunteering to
serve as the commission's representative on the Riverfront and
Natural Areas Commission.
The commission discussed the Neighborhood Open Space Task Force
and the need to finalize its charge. The task force had
discussed meeting with the neighborhood associations to present
and receive their input on the proposed Neighborhood Open Space
SOUTH
AREA
STUDY/
PLAN:
Action Plan. Liddell asked the task force to meet to determine
how to proceed and to set up a schedule to meet with the
neighborhood associations. She stated at next month's meeting
she would elicit commitments from members to attend one to two
of these meetings. Klink indicated she and Egeland will be
meeting with the Galway Hills and Walnut Ridge neighborhood
groups on January 23.
Melody Rockwell addressed the commission with respect to the
South Area Study/Plan, and presented a map outlining the study
area. She stated once the South River Corridor Interceptor
Sewer is constructed within the next two years, there will be a
demand for residential development in this area. Prior to
considering development requests in the south area, the Planning
and Zoning Commission and the City Council will be considering
a neighborhood plan. They will be using the VISION 2000
statements which were developed by the task forces formed two
years ago to envision and plan for the community's future. She
stated they are trying to increase the sense of pedestrian
access, emphasizing trails and small park areas throughout.
They are also looking at environmentally sensitive areas and
will be adhering to the recently adopted sensitive areas
ordinance. She asked for ideas the commission might have on the
type of open space that should be planned. Pruess indicated he
would like to see a trail between Wetherby Park and the ornate
box turtle area, and a trail on top of the sewer trunk line to
provide connectivity between Napoleon Park and the south area.
Rockwell indicated with respect to the box turtle area, she
would be reluctant to have too many people walking through this
area which may threaten the turtle population. She indicated
that i~ could be something for them to look at, noting possibly
erecting a fence around the area where people could still
observe the turtles. Pruess shared her concern with possibly
disrupting the area. Trueblood stated he has made the City
Attorney and the Public Works Director aware of the commission's
interest in utilizing easements for trail purposes, but he needs
to follow-up further. Klink also stated telephone/utility
easements should also be looked at, with Rockwell stating it is
more difficult because they would be working with a private
entity. She indicated it was something they could look into,
noting the city has more rights over city-owned easements tha~
private ones. Pruess pointed out an easement on Pepper Drive
between two residences, and indicated there is interest in
constructing a sidewalk in this area which would connect to
Wetherby Park. Trueblood stated from staff's perspective,
trails connecting parks and open areas, and active use
neighborhood parks between Wetherby and the soccer complex are
needed. Liddell felt it was important for the school and city
to work together in having the future school site in this area
also serve as an active park. Klink stated she was in favor of
preserving as much woodlands and wetlands as possible. Rockwell
asked if there were any ideas where neighborhood parks should be
2
P&R
FOUNDA-
TION
REPORT:
COMMIS-
SION
TIME:
located in this area, with the consensus being to have a park on
each side of Sycamore with trails connecting to the soccer
complex. Pruess indicated there was potential for a commuter
trail straight west from Wetherby to Napoleon Park. Rockwell
encouraged the commission to contact her with any other ideas
and suggestions, noting staff will be setting up a charette and
public meeting to receive input from the general public.
Pacha reported a meeting was held January 3 with the group
formed to look at the proposed plans for the expansion of the
Mercer Park Aquatic Center. He stated there were feelings
expressed about promoting this as a youth facility, involving
the School District, providing walking/jogging and exercise
areas, and space for spectators° He stated the commission's
co~ittee will be meeting to discuss the primary needs, keeping
the project affordable and how to package it.
Egeland welcomed the new commission members, Allen Stroh and
Ross Wilburn.
Pacha asked if other city'departments have a similar 45% goal of
their operating budget, less capital outlay, supported with non-
property tax revenues. Trueblood stated this was a self-imposed
goal of the Recreation Division, and was not aware of other
departments other than those that have enterprise funds that
need to be covered 100%.
Klink stated she discovered Doug Jones/Sierra Club's guide to
natural areas in and around Iowa City on the World Wide Web
(Internet). She indicated if the city is Dart of the Web it
would be a great way to distribute information about possible
trail ventures.
Pruess indicated he met last night with the Pepperwood
Neighborhood association, who still have questions about the
area purchased adjacent to Wetherby Park. Staff will be meeting
with this group in the near future. Pruess asked for an update
on the Walden Wood area that was dedicated to the city for the
purpose of providing a trail connection to the proposed Willow
Creek trail. Trueblood stated he would determine if the land
has been officially accepted. He noted progress being made on
the Willow Creek trail, which will be going out to bid fairly
soon. Pruess asked if the Walden Wood parcel could be included
in this project. Trueblood stated the firm was hired to put
together the Willow Creek trail plans and specifications some
time before the Walden Wood parcel was dedicated, and it may not
be possible to include it at this time. Staff will investigate
the possibility.
Stroh noted he appreciated being made felt welcome and a meeting
that adhered to its agenda and time°
3
Liddell encouraged members to visit Sturgis Ferry Park to
observe the bald eagles in this area.
CHAIR'S Liddell stated she, Pacha and Trueblood discussed the
REPORT: feasibility of a 90 minute meeting. The commission as a whole
endorsed this proposal. Liddell established this as a goal,
noting it would not be possible to meet if there is a heavy
agenda. She encouraged commission members to contact her at any
time with comments or suggestions.
DIRECTOR'S
REPORT: Trueblood reported on the following:
PreseBtation of Budget. The City Council is meeting on January
23, and boards/commissions are invited to appear before them to
present any issues they believe are pertinent to the budget
request made by the department.
Jensen and Neuzil Properties. The city is proceeding to 'get an
appraisal on both parcels.
1996 CDBG and HO}~E Funding. A memo is included in the packet
stating proposals for funding through the CDBG and HOME programs
are being solicited. The deadline for submission of proposals
is February 7. Staff will be meeting to discuss possibilities°
Trueblood noted that, realistically, funding of Parks and
Recreation projects is generally not a high priority.
Commission Vacancy. Three individuals have applied to fill the
vacancy on the commission created by Dee Vanderhoef's election
to the City Council. The City Council will be making the
appointment at its January 16 meeting.
Iowa City Girls Softball. Napoleon Park will be torn up during
the sewer pipeline project this summer, and alternative plans
will need to be made for the Iowa City Girls Softball games.
Staff will be discussing with the University of Iowa the
possibility of lighting three fields at the U. of I. complex and
transferring the Girls Softball games from Napoleon to this
complex.
Moved by Pacha. seconded by Wilburn, to adjourn.
The meeting adjourned at 6:40 p.m.
Unanimous.
4
MINUTES
IOniA CITY AIRPORT COMMISSION
T~URSD~Y J~%NUi%RY 11, 1996 - 5:45 P.M.
IOWA CITY TRANSIT FACILITY
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Howard Horan, Rick Mascari, Richard Blum,
Pat Foster
STAFF PRESENTs
Anne Burnside, Ron O'Neil
CALL TO ORDERs
Chairperson Horan called the meeting to order at 5:49 p.m.
quorum of the Commission was present.
A
APPROVAL OF MINUTES~
The minutes of the December 14, 1995, meeting were approved as
submitted.
AUTHORIZATION OF EXPENDITURES:
Mascari made a motion to approve the bills.
motion and it was approved 4 - 0.
Foster seconded the
PUBLIC DISCUSSION - ITEMS NOT ON AOENDA:
Robert Kistler, of the Sports Car Club of America ( SCCA ),
requested time on the Commission agenda at the next meeting. His
group would like to use a portion of a taxiway for a SCCA
sanctioned event. They have done this in the past and wanted to
hold one or two events in Iowa City again this year. Horan
directed O'Neil to put this on the agenda in February°
PUBLIC HEARING - CORPORATE HANGAR LEASES:
Horan opened the hearing at 5:55 p.m. No one from the public
presented information. O'Neil said the main issue in the lease was
to decide if there was to be an increase in rent and what a fair
market rent should be for the hangars. The CPI for land values in
Iowa City had increased an average of over 3% per year since 1987.
O'Neil surveyed ten other airports. Only two others offered
comparable heated hangars. After a short debate, the Commission
decided to increase the rent for the 5 year lease by 10%. Horan
closed the hearing at 6:12 p.m.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION/ACTION:
ao Master Plan Study - Jerry Searle presented a lay out plan for
the Airport Terminal Area that would be incorporated in the Airport
Master Plan. The placement of the buildings and a priority for the
construction of additional hangars was discussed.
Information was presented by McClure Engineering on the cost of
constructing a 100' X 100' hangar, south of the Airport Terminal.
The Commission discussed how many tenants would be needed and what
type of rent would be expected from each tenant to make the project
workable. Blum said he is aware of at least two tenants that are
interested in basing their business aircraft in Iowa City if
additional hangar space is constructed.
O'Neil will review the information presented by McClure and this
item will be discussed at the next Commission.
h. Corporate hangar leases - Mascari made a motion for a
resolution to offer 5 year leases for corporate hangars # 31, # 32,
# 33, and # 34. Foster seconded the motion, and at roll call vote,
the motion passed 4 - 0, with Hicks being absent.
o. Gordon Aircraft agreement- Gordon had exercised his option
and requested an additional one year exteK~ion to his business
agreement. The terms and conditions of the original one year lease
were the same. Blum made a motion for a resolution to extend the
Gordon Aircraft business agreement for one year. Mascari seconded
the motion and at roll call vote, the motion passed 4 - 0, with
Hicks being absent.
do Iowa City/Coralville J. Co'S - No one from the J.C.'s was in
attendance. O'Neil said he had contacted the co-chairperson of the
J.C.'s Fourth of July Committee and she assured him someone would
be at the meeting. O'Neil said he had requested a more detailed
lay-out plan and work schedule for the event.
Blum said the project takes about 25 to 30 hours of volunteer time
from the Commission. Mascari volunteered at the December meeting
to be the Commission's representative and contact person. This
will be an agenda item at the February Commission meeting°
e0 ADA improvements : Airport Terminal Building - O'Neil provided
the Commission with four proposals for constructing the ADA
improvements for the Airport Terminal. Improvements included
making the main doors accessible and improvements to the men's and
women's bathrooms. The low proposal was by Boyd Crosby
Construction for $ 15,337. Foster made a motion for a resolution
to accept the proposal by Boyd Crosby Construction. Blum seconded
the motion and at roll call vote, the motion passed 4 - 0, with
Hicks being absent.
f. Iowa City School Distriot lease - The amount of rent for the
parcel of property leased by the Iowa City School District is to be
negotiated by March 1, 1996. Horan and O'Neil will contact the
School District and negotiate a fair market rent.
CHAIRPERSON'S REPORT:
Horan said he will represent the Commission at the Council budget
meeting on January 23, 1996.
COMMISSION MEW~ER$~ REPORTS=
Mascari wanted to discuss the snow removal policy. He wanted to
change the policy to discuss when the airport would be plowed. He
suggested plowing whenever the Street Department begins to plow.
O'Neil said he thought the streets are plowed when there are two or
three inches of snow, but salt and sand is used before that amount
of accumulation. He will get a copy of the snow removal policy for
the Commission.
Blum said the current policy states that if it snows an inch or
more, the manager is to have at least one runway open by daylight,
which would be considered the beginning of the business day. This
has been the policy that has been in affect for the last 15 years
or so. Blum said safety is the main issue, but with a limited
number of staff and equipment, the Commission is responsible for
looking at what is economically and physically feasible for an
airport of this size.
Horan said the policy will be reviewed and will be an agenda item
at the next meeting.
Mascari said that he was concerned about the number of people that
have master keys to the T-hangar buildings. O'Neil said that three
of the buildings are leased to ICFS and they are responsible for
the keys. Gerald Jones, from ICFS, said that sometimes in the
past, instead of individual hangar keys being given out, ICFS gave
out master keys. The master keys were to be returned when
iDdividual keys were made available.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT=
O'Neil said Horan's Commission term is up for appointment. The
Council will make the appointment at their January 30 meeting.
SET NEXT MEETING=
The next regular meeting is scheduled for February 8, 1996, at 5:45
p.m.
ADJOURNMENT:
Foster moved to %djourn the meeting.
ihe meet~fng adjo~rne~t 8:18 p.m.
Blum seconded
the motion and
MINUTES
IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
REGULAR MEETING
2ND FLOOR ADMINISTRATIVE CONFERENCE ROOM
THURSDAY, JANUARY 25, 1996 - 5:00 PM
Members Present:
Margaret Cox, Stephen Greenleaf (arrived at
6:00 pm), Philip Hubbard, Mary McMurray, Mark
Martin, Jesse Singerraan, Anne Spencer (left
5:35 pm), Jim Swaim, Chuck Traw
Staff Present:
Barb Black, Maeve Clark, Susan Craig, Martha
Lubaroff, Liz Nichols
CALL TO ORDER:
President Traw called the meeting to order at 5:00 pm
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
The minutes of the regular meeting of December 28 were approved.
Cox/Martin
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Followup on City Council's FY97 budget hearinq held on January 23.
The Council members had several questions which Traw answered.
Some of the questions concerned our reserve accounts and how they
are used. Traw and Craig felt fairly confident that the budget as
presented by the City Manager will be approved with most of our
requests except those for additional permanent personnel and
continued funding for building expansion planning.
NEW BUSINESS
Six month planning report. In June of 1994 the objectives for FY96
were approved by the Board. This is a six month review of the
progress and completion of those objectives. Traw asked for
questions or comments. Singerman commented on the Public Relations
goal which calls for increased public awareness. Singerman felt
that perhaps this goal was weaker than it should be. Craig
responded that the grant requests and public relations activities
related to the Centennial will achieve much of this goal. This
particular goal is not the highest priority, takes large.resources
and is difficult to measure.
In this regard, Swaim encouraged the library to reach out to some
of the agencies in the community who work with young adults.
Although Neighborhood Centers are part of our outreach plan there
was agreement that reaching out to other agencies is worth
pursuing.
A question was raised in terms of endowments and how the proposed
StanleyAmendment would affect fundraising. The Stanley~u~endment,
if passed, would force libraries to replace tax dollars if
ICPL BOARD 0F TRUSTEES
JANUARY 25, 1996
PAGE 2
fundraising was successful because a net gain would not be allowed.
It would not be good for libraries.
The Board praised the staff for a well done and an easy to follow
report.
Cable Franchise Report:
Craig gave a brief history of Cable TV and the library in terms of
space, programming, etc. The Franchise fee is 5% which generates
close to $300,000 annually. The library is interested in
participating in discussions regarding the passthrough fees.
Issues related to community programming will be tackled in an
attempt to pool resources. The issue of PATV remaining part of the
library's expansion plans was raised. At the current time there is
no plan for PATV to be included in a new building however it would
be something that could be taken up again and negotiated for if
there was a need and interest. Swaim encouraged some communication
with PATV offering to discuss their needs. The library gets
$38,000. There was encouragement to speak with them soon so that
if necessary space could be included in our building plan. The
Board was in agreement with Craig's writing a letter offering a
meeting.
Library's Centennial
The kick off will take place in September of 1996 and events will
end one year later. There will be a committee formed to work on
this. It will be comprised of staff, library board members, former
board and current or past Foundation Board and Friends Committee
members. The committee will gather ideas and decide how to
proceed. Library staff is asking for allocation from the Board of
$1,000 from the Gifts & Bequests fund to cover initial expenses.
Swaim moved approval of allocation to support expenses. Hubbard
seconded. Hubbard asked about coordination of the Sesquicentennial
of the State and University of Iowa. Craig said that they had a
conversation with someone from the University and they will work on
blending efforts. No further discussion. All signified approval
by -saying Aye. The motion passed unanimously. Craig asked for
volunteers for this committee from the current Board. Hubbard
volunteered since he is on the University's sesquicentennial
committee. Craig will recruit a former Board member as well.
STAFF REPORTS
Internet Service and Open House. This past Sunday invited guests
came to the library to try the multimedia and world wide web
access. General public use of WWW began Monday. This represents
a great deal of work by staff members. A live radio show took
place from the library this week. Staffmembers were interviewed by
Roy Justice. Two more Open Houses are scheduled.
ICPL BOARD OF TRUSTEES
JANUARY 25, 1996
PAGE 3
Iowa Legislative Day on February 28. Craig will be attending.
Board members were invited to attend.
Right tO Know traininq. In response to a federal hazardous
materials law that says employees need to be apprised of hazardous
materials in the workplace, training took place for all City
employees here at the library.
Development Office report. Included in packet
"View from the 13th floor", an article from Iowa CityMagazine that
mentions the library, was included for the pleasure of the Board.
Inserv~ce Day report was passed out at the meeting. Evaluations
were positive and the staff will recommend continuing Inservice Day
when the FY97 calendar is discussed.
ANNOUNCEMENT FROMMEMBERS
A report was made on the University Heights City council meeting
where the possibility of contracting for library service was
discussed. Craig, Spencer, Heidi Lauritzen, Director and a Trustee
from the Coralville Public Library attended. The Council had not
received copies of the proposal sent to the Mayor so they listened,
said they would talk about it and get back to us. There appeared
to be some interest. They indicated that the range of money talked
about based on per capita tax support seemed reasonable. They
talked about getting community input at a meeting in February.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Facilities Planning Committee Report
Traw requested moving into a closed session for the purpose of
discussion of an offer to purchase real estate. Disclosure could
affect negotiations of such an offer. A motion was made by
Singerman and seconded by Martin. A rollcall vote of all members
was unanimous in favor of moving into closed session and a tape
recorder was turned on.
Let the record show that Trustees are in Executive session.
A motion was made to return to Open Session by Greenleaf and
seconded by Martin.
All said Aye.
Let the minutes reflect that the Trustees went into closed session
to discuss possible property acquisition for the expansion of the
library.
ICPL BOARD OF TRUSTEES
JANUARY 25, 1996
PAGE 4
FINANCIAL REPORTS
FY96 Six month gift account. It was explained that the negative
balance in one of the accounts was due to a transfer made after the
report was printed.
FY96 Six month receipts. The Receipts are in good shape.
FY96 Six month expenditures. Craig pointed out some high numbers
in printing, but overall budget is in good shape six months into
the year.
OTHER REPORTS
Six month Output Statistics
Circulation figures are down a little. Children's circulation has
dropped a bit.
Reserves are higher due to the free reserves.
Six month Open Access Report
Craig explained that this reflects the fastest growing segment of
our use.
DISBURSEMENTS
Review VISA expenditures for December'95.
Approve Disbursements for December 1995. Motion to Approve made by
Singerman and seconded by Cox. Passed Unanimously.
SET AGENDA ORDER FOR FEBRUARY MEETING
Executive Session to discuss property acquisition.
Policy reviews.
ADJOURNMENT:
Motion to adjourn was made by Spencer and seconded by Hubbard at
7:00 pm
Minutes submitted by Martha Lubaroff.
RULES COMMITTEE MEETING
FEBRUARY 9, 1996
10:00 A.M.
COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT: Novick, Norton
STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT: Karr, Rockwell
Board of Adjustment Procedural Rules:
The Rules Committee recommends adoption of the Procedural Rules with the following
changes:
Article [. Authority, At the request of the City Attorney the paragraph should be
formatted to reflect "...City Code, Title 14, Chapter 4, entitled "Land Control and
Development", Article B, entitled "Board of Adjustment,"..."
Article II. Membership, Section 6. Terms, Change third sentence to read "However, a
member appointed to fill an unexpired term with one year or less remaining may also be
appointed concurrently for one full five (5) year term."
Article III. Officers, Section 1. Number, Change first sentence to read "The officers of
the Board shall be a Chairperson and a Vice-Chairpersons, each of whom shall be elected by
majority vote of the members of the Board."
Article III. Officers, Section 2. Election and Terms of Office, Change first sentence to
read "The Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson shall be elected annually at the first regular
meeting of the Board each year."
Article Vl. HearinQ, Section 1. Regular Hearinq~, Change to read "Hearings will be held
as needed at a regular time and place to be set by members of the Board."
Article VI. Hearinq, Section 3. Place of Hearinqs, Change sentence to read "All hearings
and meetings of the Board shall be open to the public and shall be in a place accessible to
persons with disabilities."
Article Vl. Hearinq, Section 4. Quorum, Change to read "Three members of the Board
constitute a quorum."
(Article VI. Hearinq, contained two Sections numbered 7. A correction to renumber
will be made starting with Section 8. Hearinq Order in the final version.)
Article VI. Hearinch Section 8. Board Deliberation, At the request of the City Attorney
the first sentence should be replaced by the following two sentences "After all parties have
been heard, the public hearing will be declared closed, so that the Board may deliberate the
case. The Board must state its findings of fact and conclusions of law, as required by state
law. The Board may request..."
Article Vl. Hearincl, Section 10. Board Votinq, Second paragraph, second sentence shall
MINUTES
RULES COMMITTEE MEETING
FEBRUARY 9, 1996
PAGE 2
read "Every member of the Commission, including the Chairperson, shall cast a vote upon
each motion."
Article Vl. Hearing, Section 11. Legal Advisor, At the request of the CiW Attorney the
sentence will read "The City Attorney or a designated representative shall act as legal counsel
to the Board."
Article Vl. Hearing, Section 12. Changed to read "Except as otherwise provided within,
Roberts Rules of Order Newly Revised shall be used to conduct Board hearings and meetings."
Article VII. Decisions, Section 3. First sentence changed to read "Each decision shall
be filed with the City Clerk within a reasonable time after the Board hearing, and shall be
stamped by the Clerk to indicate the date and time of filing."
Article VIII. Decisions, Section 4. At the request of the City Attorney the reference to
the Legal Department will be changed to City Attorney's office.
Article IX. Amendments to Procedural Rules, Final sentence should read "Amendments
shall go into effect upon approval by the City Council."
The Board of Adjustment will consider the changes at their regular meeting of March 13.
Meeting adjourned at 10:45 a.m.