HomeMy WebLinkAbout2004-04-06 Transcription#2 Page I
ITEM 2. MAYOR'S PROCLAMATIONS
a. Week of the Young Child
Lehman: (reads proclamation)
Kart: Here to accept the proclamation is Katie Klefstad. (applause)
Klefstad: I just want to say something really quickly here. My name is Katie
Klefstad. I'm a child development home provider here in Iowa City. I
own and operate Small World childcare. This is my son; Brook's here to
help me. I'm representing early childhood professionals, young children
and their families in Johnson County, and I'm also here on behalf of the
Johnson County Chapter of the National Association for the Education of
Young Children, the NAEYC. On Saturday, April 17th, the Johnson
County chapter of the NAEYC will host the third annual "Celebration of
the Young Child". The annual celebration is a way to celebrate the joy of
childhood, and the celebration will take place from 10am to 12 noon at the
Sycamore Mall in Iowa City, and it will include activities for children and
families, presentations from children's groups, displays and materials for
community groups, from community groups, excuse me, and special deals
from businesses, and we wanted to invite all of you, and the public, to join
us that morning in celebrating the wonder of the early years of life, and we
also wanted to thank you the Council for recognizing the importance of
the early years as an issue that affects us all and for officially proclaiming
April 18th through the 24th, 2004, as the Week of the Young Child in Iowa
City. Thank you very much. (applause)
Lehman: Thank you.
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ITEM 2. MAYOR'S PROCLAMATIONS
b. Fair Housing Month
Wilburn: (reads proclamation)
Karr: Here to accept the proclamation is Krista Bowersox from the Des Moines
HUD office. (applause)
Bowersox: Thank you for the proclamation. I just want to say a few words. Housing
and Urban Development is a housing agency committed to increasing
home ownership, supporting community development, and increasing
access to affordable housing, free from discrimination. Under the
leadership of President Bush, our national commitment to creating equal
housing opportunities for all Americans remains strong. Our office of Fair
Housing and Equal Opportunity is proud to be the federal agency charged
with carrying out the nation's fair housing laws. Home ownership has
increased to record levels. 68.6% of all Americans own their own home.
President Bush has made increasing minority home ownership a national
priority. His goal is to increase minority home ownership by 5.5 million
by the year 2010. There are many achievements that we have made, but
over the years, over the past 35 years, the federal government has made
much progress toward insuring an America where equality and
opportunity in housing is not simply a goal, but a right, but we can't rest
until that right is a reality for all. (applause)
Lehman: Thank you.
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ITEM 2. MAYOR'S PROCLAMATIONS
c. Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week
Elliott: (reads proclamation)
Karr: Here to accept the proclamation is Dr. Russell Smith. (applause)
Smith: I'd like to take a moment here to thank the Mayor, as well as the Council,
for recognizing Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week, and I think our
important mission is to educate the public about head and neck cancer. As
mentioned it's a fairly uncommon cancer, and probably compromises, or
effects less than 5% of the individuals that actually are affected by cancer
each year, and as for education, I think it's important to recognize the risk
factors, and those include the use of tobacco products, excessive alcohol
consumption, and also to educate the public about early warning signs,
and unfortunately a lot of the early warning signs are the same things we
experience with common colds, and other ailments. Stuffy nose, chronic
sinus infection, a bad tooth, a canker sore, maybe a sore throat, or even a
Iittle change in our voice, and fortunately if people would be able to
recognize these as warning signs, come in and seek attention early for
these, we could potentially make an earlier diagnosis and hopefully affect
their outcome, and I do want to emphasize that we do have a "Head and
Neck Cancer Screening Day" on the 23rd at the Department of
Otolaryngology, and there will be information online through the Yul
Brenner Head and Neck Cancer website, as well as the Department of
Otolaryngology web site, and you can also directly call the Department of
Otolaryngology to set up a screening time. Thanks again. (applause)
Lehman: Thank you.
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ITEM 2. MAYOR'S PRESENTATIONS
d. National Medical Laboratory Week
Vanderhoef: (roads proclamation)
Karr: Here to accept the proclamation is Beth Hochstedler, Training
Coordinator, UI Agency Labs. (applause)
Hochstedler: Thank you to the Mayor and the City Council for this proclamation, and I
proudly accept this proclamation on behalf of laboratory professionals
across Iowa. Mercy Medical Hospital, University of Iowa Hospitals and
Clinics, Cross Laboratories, Veterans Administration Medical Center, and
the University of Iowa Hygienic Laboratory are just a few of 136
laboratories in Iowa, providing a range of testing, from cholesterol
screening, newborn screening on every baby born in Iowa, environmental
testing, West Nile virus, SARS, and the list goes on and on. These
laboratory professionals are working with you for better health in Iowa.
Many times behind the scenes, working 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to
provide test results that provide diagnosis, treatment, and therapy that we
all benefit from in Iowa. Thank you again for this recognition in honor of
all the exceptional Iowans. Thank you. (applause)
Lehman: Thank you.
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ITEM 2. MAYOR'S PROCLAMATIONS
fi Public Access Television Week
Champion: (reads proclamation)
Karr: Here to accept the proclamation is Board Member Carrie Watson.
(applause)
Watson: Thank you. My name is Carrie Watson, and as a member of the PATV
Board of Directors, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the
Council and the people of Iowa City for participating in the success of the
local cable access. A well-used public access center, such as ours, shows
a stimulated citizenry. Supporting such a resource shows respect for all
viewpoints. In this day and age when television has such a profound
affect on our culture, it is important to provide training and access to the
tools and to the medium, and to foster a community of responsible media
makers and viewers. This is our mission at PATV. We invite you to stop
by the access center, or to tune in to cable channel 18, and get involved in
the dynamic exchange of ideas that build a strong community. Thank you.
(applause)
Lehman: Thank you.
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ITEM 2. MAYOR'S PROCLAMATIONS
g. Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Bailey: (reads proclamation)
Karr: Here to accept the proclamation is Karen Siler, Johnson County Services
Coordinator. (applause)
Siler: I just want to briefly thank Mayor Lehman and the Council for giving us
this proclamation, and helping us raise awareness to the terrible crime that
is prevalent in our society, so thank you. (applause)
Lehman: Thank you.
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ITEM 3. OUTSTANDING STUDENT CITIZENSHIP AWARDS -
Grant Wood Elementary
Lehman: Tonight we have two different schools. First let's do the young gentleman
from Grant Wood. Now this one is extra special because this young man
wasn't able to be here the night his other two comrades received the
award, and I think it's particularly special that you thought enough of it to
be here tonight, so if you would give us your name and then read why you
were nominated please.
Gadson: My name is Kyven Gadson. I am a 6th grader at Grant Wood Elementary
School. Activities that I do in school are safety patrol, conflict managers,
box top committee, and student council. On safety patrol I help kids to be
safe before and after school. On conflict managers I help kids with their
problems at recess. Some activities I do outside of school include football,
basketball, baseball, tae-kwon-do, track, and wrestling. What I did to get
this award was be a good student by helping out around the classroom,
turning in my assignments on time, setting good examples in and out of
school. I would like to thank you very much for this Outstanding Student
Citizenship Award. (applause)
Lehman: Do you know Jan Grinko Lehman? She is my ..... I am her favorite father-
in-law (laughter), and you tell her that you got this from me. I want to
read this: for outstanding qualities of leadership within Grant Wood
Elementary as well as the community, and for sense of responsibility and
helpfulness to others, we recognize Kevin as an outstanding student
citizen. Your community is proud of you. Presented by the Iowa City
City Council, and I'm sure that your parents are proud of you, and your
grandparents, so congratulations. (applause)
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ITEM 3. OUTSTANDING STUDENT CITIZENSHIP AWARDS -
Longfellow Elementary
Lehman: And now we have some folks from Longfellow, if they would come up
please. You can be over here with me...there you go. You know, this
really is one of the favorite times I'm sure for the entire Council. It's a
very, very important part of our Council meeting. One of these days, and
it won't be as long as you think, you folks will be sitting up here. You
think it's funny now, but it happens. Look at us. (laughter) Anyway, I'd
like again if you would read, give your name, and then read why you were
nominated.
Hugh: My name is Breanne Hugh. I go to Longfellow. I looked up citizenship in
the new Lexicon Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English
Language. It meant devotion and loyalty to your community. To me
citizenship means what you do for your community to make it a better
place to live, by sharing your ideas, improving the environment, and
contributing. When I turn 18 I will be able to have a say in what goes on
in our country. Until then, I can do things to make my school a better
place by being on safety patrol and PALS to make sure the little kids are
safe. School is much like a little city. I can share my ideas with student
council to make a better community. I found a paragraph about
citizenship from a book my school counselor had. Being a good citizen
means following the roles, helping others, and taking responsibility for
things that need to be done. I think I qualify as being a good citizen,
because at the beginning of the school year I needed to stay in for recess to
get my work done, but since January I have been staying in because I want
to do extra work, or just read, not because my work isn't done. I follow
all the rules at school and do my best to help others do the same. When
someone is being bullying another student, I don't.join in, but go with that
person to talk to an adult about solving the problem. When there is a
fundraiser I always raise a lot of money. This year I have raised over $130
for each project. This month I have participated in two fundraisers. I
made less money for each thing than usual, but I have fun raising money
for charity. There is one person at our school who has taught me by being
such a good citizen herself. Her name is Miss Williams, our school
counselor. She takes time to talk to you about family problems or
problems with friends. It is such fun to hang out with her at lunch when
she takes groups of kids with her to her office to do crafts or other fun
stuff. Last year I had a lot of social problems, and Miss Williams made
me realize I needed to ignore people. This year I haven't been to her
office for personal problems, and I miss that, but I know she is happy she
could help and I could solve my problems myself. So, if you want to be a
good citizen, find a mature adult to show you how, and enjoy the rewards
of knowing you are helping make life a better place. And thank you for
the Outstanding Student Citizenship Award. (applause)
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Davis: Hi my name is Chelsea Davis. I go to Longfellow Elementary, and I'm
currently in Mr. Brennan 6th grade class. I am proud and honored to
receive this award. Mr. Brennan asked me to say a speech about what
activities I'm in so here it goes. I just started 4H and used to be in Girl
Scouts. I'm in two choirs -- one outside of school, the other in school. I
play alto saxophone in band and take voice lessons. In 3rd grade I was
class president. In 5th grade ! was in student council. I have been in two
bake sales to help raise money for the animal shelter and Ronald
McDonald House. I have also raised money for "Feed the Children". My
social studies teacher, Mr. , has just gotten me in an
organization called "Free the Children". I have also been in a lot of
musical performances, like the Cedar Rapids Opera Hansel & Gretel, and
also a Pops concert. Those are just a few reasons why I was picked for the
citizenship award, and I again am so happy to get this award. Thank you.
(applause)
Lehman: I'm almost starting to get tired. You guys have got more energy than I can
imagine. (laughter)
Rowden: My name is Graham Rowden and I go to Longfellow Elementary and my
teacher is Miss Jackson. I am reluctant to accept this award because I feel
that I really haven't done that much, but on behalf of the group I have
been involved with, I will. Eight months ago I joined the group called
MOE -Money Offering Effort, a social action group dedicated to helping
people in need. It was formed three years ago by four 10-year old boys.
This year there are ten members, and these are some of the things we have
done: raised $300 for a woman who is epileptic to get a seizure-response
dog; rake leaves for the elderly; got together with members nearly every
Saturday in the fall to make crafts for a holiday bizarre, over $3,000
raised. 80% of the money was used to fund a project in
.; remaining 20% was donated to six local agencies: Table to
Table, Caf6, Free Medical Clinic, Domestic Violence, Wheels
to Work, and the overflow Homeless Shelter. Twenty wool blankets were
donated to the overflow shelter. We've also helped transport cots and
supplies from one site to another. $100 was given to a local family who
lost their home in a fire. We helped move furniture and household items
to a temporary home for them. We are currently planning our next project
to raise awareness and support for the homeless by spending one night in a
cardboard box. Besides MOE, I also volunteered at the free lunch
program, and picked up litter. The end. (applause)
Lehman: Boy I can tell you when I say we're proud of you guys, I'm not kidding,
and I'm sure your parents are extremely proud. This is quite a group. I
want to read this, these all say the same: for outstanding qualities of
leadership, within Longfellow Elementary, as well as the community, and
for sense of responsibility and helpfulness to others, we recognize these
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outstanding student citizens. Your community is proud of you. Presented
by the Iowa City City Council. Thank you, folks. (applause)
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ITEM 4. CONSIDER ADOPTION OF TIlE CONSENT CALENDAR AS
PRESENTED OR AMENDED
Champion: Move adoption.
O'Donnell: Second.
Lehman: Okay, moved by Champion; seconded by O'Donnell.
Elliott: Ernie, I'd like to take one ..... it's my understanding that there is an
individual here who would like to address the number one item under
correspondence, related to the change of a bus stop, and I'd like to take
that out and handle it separately to give the individual an opportunity to
address it.
Lehman: You would like to remove F. 1 .?
Elliott: F. 1., please.
Lehman: Okay. We've been asked to remove Item number 4, which will be
deferred indefinitely. Is there other discussion? I just ..... I suppose two
items that I'd like to point out. Number one, we're setting a public
hearing for April 20th on an ordinance to reduce the water rates, which is
something that we will enjoy a great deal, and also authorizes us to sign an
agreement with the DOT for the cooperation between the DOT and the
City for the improvements of Foster Road/Dubuque intersection for which
we will get a grant for up to $1.6 million, which is a pretty significant
amount.
Karr: Also, Mr. Mayor, you're adding setting a public hearing on the Brookland
Park sewer separation project as well, with the Consent Calendar.
Lehman: Right, right. Other discussion? Roll call. Motion carries.
Champion: Move adoption ofF.1.
Elliott: Second.
Lehman: Motion and a second to adopt F. 1. Discussion?
Elliott: I guess I was wrong.
Lehman: Okay.
Elliott: Yes, yes.
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Lehman: Almost missed it.
Fazen: Hi, Matthew Fazen, Church and Lirm. I wanted to talk about the bus stops
on North Dodge. I've been working at NCS and ACT for the last five
years, last two and a half with ACT. I gave you all two maps. The scary
one I drew. The other one I got from ACT. The one that I drew, I'd like
to start with. It's got a little more details. We're talking about by ACT
Circle Road, if you know where that is, up by the Sinclair station, where
ACT is. Do you know what I'm talking about? (several respond from
Council) Okay. If we look at the, I made two for them too. If we look at
the rough map, let's look right in the middle of the page I have the old bus
stop. They took that out, and according to Deb Shriver that was at the
request of ACT because the driveway that goes up from there is closed
now, closed to vehicles, and they don't want pedestrians either. They took
that bus stop and they moved it down by Scott Boulevard, if you go down
you see it. Okay, now back up to the middle, there's the current bus stop
over by where Minerva's, Travel Lodge, North Dodge Athletic Club, you
see that? They want to, the proposal is to move that bus stop down to
Scott Boulevard also. Now every bus rider I've talked to has already had
a problem with this. The problem is, is people are going to be having to
walk up North Dodge Road and half the way up, if you can look at my
drawing, is sidewalk. Then it tums into shoulder. So what you're going
to have is people walking on the shoulder of the road. That's not good,
even in nice weather. Inclement weather it's going to be even worse. As
it is now, the bus stops help no one that rides the bus. I've talked with a
dozen people that I had never spoken with before, and they were from
livid to very disappointed. They find themselves walking in the road. If
they're going to the ACT campus on the east, they have to take Scott
Boulevard sidewalk over to Dubuque Road, if you're looking at the
bottom, and then they're walking in the road and it's a longer walk, it's in
the road, and it's very inconvenient. Many of the other people that work
on the other side, where the North Dodge Athletic Club, Travel Lodge,
Minerva's, Sinclair, pardon that bad drawing of the dinosaur. (laughter)
But a lot of people work down there that take the bus, and they're going to
be having to walk up North Dodge and they're going to be on the shoulder
of the road. Now already the sidewalk and the shoulder of the road is very
dirty from dirt, stones, wind and that's not to mention if it rains, and I'm
not even thinking of snow. There's a ..... I understand that it's going to be
a four-lane in the fall of 1995, and that there will be other plans for the bus
stops. What I'm asking, and I think I'm, I know I'm speaking for 100%
virtually almost, you know, I don't know any bus rider that likes what
they're doing, but if they move that one down there from Minerva's and
the Sinclair, and move it down to Scott Boulevard, it's just a hardship on
everybody. And another thing, all the businesses are up by where it is
now. If you keep it where it is, I know Sinclair, I talked with them, and
they're like "what, they're going to move it?" You've got people, if it is
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inclement weather, you like to be near something where you can get out of
the rain. As it is where it is on Scott Boulevard it's not doing anybody any
good that rides the bus. I talked with Deb Shriver again today, and it
seems that the major sticking point, I talked with you, Elliott, about this.
It seems like the major sticking point is that road that's closed right now.
They don't want any people there, and it's closed to cars, but they're
making a real hardship and a dangerous situation for the riders. I'm going
to read some quick notes here so I don't forget anything.
Lehman: You need to wrap this up pretty quick.
Fazen: Okay, okay. Well, I guess I've said enough. I'll just say that where it's at
now, the one that's on the west side of the road, I think you should keep it
there until you switch things. It's safer. It's more convenient. Actually,
ideally, where it used to be on the east side of the street was pretty good
and there's room for a bus to pull over, and it's not having people walk up
and down North Dodge. So I....I might have left a few things out, but
that's it. So you can keep those maps and everything, and I don't know,
but is the public hearing on the 20th about this?
Lehman: We didn't have a public hearing on this.
Fazen: Okay.
Karr: Sir, could I have your name for the record.
Fazen: Matthew Fazen.
Karr: Thank you.
Fazen: Yeah, thank you.
Lehman: Other discussion?
Elliott: I talked with Ron Logsden, and this was done at the request of ACT, and
also he said that the bus drivers themselves have been concerned about the
safety of the buses as cars come up over the hill on Highway 1.
Lehman: Site distance?
Elliott: Right, and I would hope that at some time in the future, maybe there could
be a more convenience place, a more safe place, for everyone, but at the
present time, I will, I guess, have to vote approving this.
Lehman: Steve, did you have something?
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Atkins: I was going to say, I'm not completely familiar with what ACT's thinking
was on the thing. If this is something ....
Lehman: Could we defer it? (several talking at once) Do we have a motion to defer
this item?
O'Donnell: Move we defer this for two weeks.
Elliott: Second.
Lehman: We have a motion and a second to defer this for two weeks. All in favor?
Opposed? Okay, motion carries.
Atkins: Matt, did you leave your address and phone number so we can contact
you? Okay.
Wilburn: Eventually this is sidewalk on both sides, isn't it?
Atkins: I believe it is, Ross. I don't have...
Vanderhoefi I think so. I think it's an eight and a four.
Fazen: I guess the main thing was just that it's making everybody walk further,
and it's putting them in a situation that's not real safe.
Lehman: We're going to check it out further.
Fazen: Those were the main two. Thanks.
Lehman: Thank you.
Atkins: We'll follow up and get back with you.
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ITEM 5. COMMUNITY COMMENT (ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA)
Dieterle: Hi, I'm Caroline Dieterle, and I'll just say very briefly that I'm hoping that
something will be done to reexamine the timing of the lights on Burlington
Street. I know there was some talk about that earlier when there was that
fatal accident at the comer of Linn and Burlington, but I cross it often,
down by the Lindquist Center, and truly, I think of myself as being
reasonably fit, and relatively quick, but you know, you can barely make it
across. If you start right when the light tums, and you know, for elderly
people and anybody who is in any way handicapped, or people who aren't
really warned about this and aren't familiar with the intersection, and think
that they can go when the light has been changed for a couple of seconds,
are likely to get caught in the crossfire.
Lehman: Do you push the button when you cross?
Dieterle: Well, I haven't because I've waited for the light to change and...
Lehman: I'm not sure but I think some of those walk lights are longer if you push
the button. If you don't push the button, I think it's controlled by cross
traffic.
Dieterle: Well that would be nice to have that made a little more public because I
think that most people, when they get there and they know the light is
about to change, don't bother to push it.
Lehman: I think there is a sign there that says push the button for southbound, push
it for Westbound.
Dieterle: Well, that's tree but I thought....I guess I'm just completely out of it. I
thought....okay.
Lehman: We'll check it.
Champion: I didn't know that either.
Elliott: Yep.
Lehman: Could be wrong.
Bailey: I've heard some concerns about...
Atkins: Burlington is a common complaint, one the state highway has involvement
in, and secondly, I think the biggest issue is the side friction. The side
streets trip the lights and that's why it's difficult to find a length of time.
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Lehman: Will you find out for us?
Atkins: Yes, we will.
Vanderhoefi I think they're already timed and they do reset once or twice a day to get
the through traffic to try and...
Lehman: Well they're timed for cars and I think what we're talking about is
pedestrians, but I do think the button, the actual button ....
Atkins: ...is a group of elderly citizens. It's a legitimate complaint.
Lehman: We'll check for you. Other comments?
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ITEM 6. PLANNING AND ZONING MATTERS
a. CONSIDER A MOTION SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING FOR
MAY 4, 2004, ON AN ORDINANCE CREATING A SELF-
SUPPORTING MUNICIPAL IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
(SSMID) ACCORDING TO IOWA CODE CHAPTER 386 FOR
DOWNTOWN IOWA CITY.
Wilburn: Move to set the public hearing.
Bailey: Second.
Lehman: Moved by Wilbum; seconded by Bailey.
Champion: I will have to abstain from the vote on this because I have a conflict of
interest.
Vanderhoef: I will be abstaining for a conflict of interest.
Lehman: I also will be abstaining.
Elliott: I won't. (laughter)
Lehman: All in favor? Opposed? The motion carries 4 to 0. There were three
abstentions.
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ITEM 6. PLANNING AND ZONING MATTERS
b. REZONING APPROXIMATELY 32,000 SQUARE FEET FROM
CENTRAL BUSINESS SERVICE ZONE (CB-2) TO HIGH
DENSITY MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL ZONE (RM-44)
FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 302 AND 308 SOUTH
GILBERT STREET (REZ04-0003)
(a) PUBLIC HEARING
Lehman: Public hearing is open.
Holland: Good evening, my name is Joe Holland. I'm here on behalf of the
applicant on this rezoning matter. To answer any questions you have,
these are t~vo apartment buildings that were built in the early 1980's.
They were in compliance with the zoning ordinance when they were built.
The zoning ordinance has subsequently changed, and has limited the
flexibility of the use of the first floor of these buildings, that's why we're
asking that they be rezoned. This rezoning that's proposed would actually
bring the properties closer into compliance with the current ordinance, and
both staff and Planning and Zoning Commission are in favor of this
change.
Lehman: Thank you, sir. Public hearing is closed.
(b) CONSIDER AN ORDINANCE (FIRST CONSIDERATION)
Lehman: Do we have a motion?
O'Donnell: Move first consideration.
Champion: Second.
Lehman: Moved by O'Donnell; seconded by Champion. Discussion? Roll call.
Motion carries.
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ITEM 6. PLANNING AND ZONING MATTERS
c. REZONING APPROXIMATELY 24.1 ACRES FROM INTERIM
DEVELOPMENT RESIDENTIAL ZONE (ID-RS) TO LOW
DENSITY SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL ZONE (RS-5),
SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, FOR PROPERTY LOCATED ON
SOUTH SYCAMORE STREET, EAST OF SOUTHPOINT
SUBDIVISION (REZ04-00002)
Lehman: Public hearing is open.
Bimbaum: My name is Anthony Birnbaum. I live at 163 Stanwyck Drive in Iowa
City, which is immediately opposite on the other side of the drainage ditch
bike path of the proposed development. I'd just like to bring to your
attention some safety concerns, and I think I speak on behalf of all the
neighbors on Stanwyck and the existing part of Gable. With the extension
of Gable across the bike path drainage ditch, to the proposed new
development, as you probably are aware, I emailed Mr. John Yapp on a lot
of these things and he responded accordingly, and he may have forwarded
my email to you, at least he said he would. So ifI sound redundant, please
forgive me. But, one of the main concerns we have is when they extend
Gable to the new development, it's going to be a straight street, and my
experience with human nature is, in other places I've lived, it's going to be
that motorists are going to tend to try and gun it, so I'm wondering if the
City Council might consider addressing some possible solutions to make
sure that Gable at least is made safe, because there are a lot of children on
this street, two of my own, and there's more on the way. You know, for
example, putting "calmers" in, maybe on both the north side and the south
side of the bike path. As you're probably aware, and I notice this from my
own visual experience, a lot of people do use this path, and it's a great
path. My wife also ~vanted me to mention of making sure there's adequate
lighting at the intersection of the path and the .... and Gable Lane. Maybe
some of you might have some possible ideas as to how we might keep
traffic from, you know, speeding along that line. My guess is that when
people ..... as this development increases, people are going to come on to
Lombard and they're probably going to turn left onto Stanwyck and then
go down Gable, and that's where our concern is, and we just wanted to try
and make sure that the street remains safe so that, you know, there aren't
any injuries, or even possible fatalities. I know, for example, at Willow
Creek Park you have some humps that go along...I don't know the name
of that street. That seems to work fairly well. They're not really huge
bumps but they're enough I think that I think it keeps traffic at a
reasonable pace. So, the other thing that I wanted to mention, whenever
it's fiscally possible for the City to do so, to upgrade Sycamore and I think
that will help the burden on Gable because fight now Gable is going to be
the only access point to this subdivision, and again, I think I speak on
behalf of the neighborhood when, you know, this is a real safety issue for
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us. I also....kind of indirectly related to this, is again, with the soccer park
you know just down the road, and with this new development, there's
going to be of course a lot more traffic on Sycamore and I'm wondering
where the intersection of Highway 6 and Sycamore, if some turning lanes
might be put in, because I know even now when I turn onto Sycamore to
get home, I'm always backing up traffic when I turn to the southbound
lane of Sycamore. Again, I know that's another fiscal responsibility but
you know, whenever it's feasible for the City to do so, I'd highly
recommend the City pursue that option. And finally, again, just kind of,
not directly related to this development but more related to the bike path
that's there. IfI remember correctly, in the original neighborhood plan,
the bike path was supposed to cross Sycamore and go over to Wetherby
and then eventually over to Napoleon. Now don't quote me on that. My
memory is kind of fuzzy on this. In some recent maps that have shown the
proposed bike path roate, I think that's been removed and I was kind of
disappointed by that, and I was kind of hoping the City will, and maybe
this is something that needs to go back to the Zoning Commission, or the
Committee, but I'd if possible like to see that be reinstated because a lot of
people, as you can just see by the pictures up there, really do love and use
these paths and so...right now it's still undeveloped and so if it's feasible,
again, for the City to do so to extend that path across Sycamore to hook up
with the path at Wetherby, and then eventually hook up with Napoleon
path. I think that covers all my concerns for now, but the main concern I
wanted to bring forth is Gable Street, and the possible safety issues that
the increased traffic will bring.
Lehman: You are aware that the connection to Sycamore, this subdivision, can be
established as soon as south Sycamore has been put on our capital
improvements program, which could...
Birnbaum: Do you know when that is?
Lehman: We don't know. It has been on there.
Birnbaum: If my information is correct, it was...the money that was...it was
supposed to be done like last year or something and the money got
diverted to another project.
Lehman: Right, but I think it's a pretty high priority. My guess is you're going to
see it in the next year or two. Don't quote me, but as soon as that appears
on the CIP, that connection can be made to Sycamore and they'll no
longer have to use Gable.
Birnbaum: Okay.
Lehman: And I would expect that, frankly, I would think that would be fairly soon.
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Bimbaum: So is it in your opinion then that maybe we don't need to do anything on
Gable Street per se then?
Lehman: I'm not going to say that, but is Gable 28 foot street? (TAPE ENDS)
Champion: ...if the neighborhood ends up having problems, we do have a traffic
calming program where...
Bimbaum: Yes, Mr. Yapp did send me a brochure on that. Unfortunately I filed it
somewhere and couldn't remember...
Champion: And that's how the bumps got put on Cal Drive too.
Birnbaum: Okay.
Lehman: Right. You brought up good points. Thank you.
Birnbaum: All right, thank you.
Champion: Thank you.
Elliott: I have a quick question for Karin or someone. I'm familiar with
Sycamore. Where...the street in question is Gable?
Lehman: Right.
Elliott: Gable, is that the name? Where does that come in? Sycamore is like a
short quarter mile track. Does it come in on the east side?
Lehman: Sycamore is straight down.
Elliott: I mean Stanwyck.
Bimbaum: Sycamore is the main... Stanwyck? If you know where Lakeside Drive is?
Okay, you turn onto Lakeside and then there's a little street called
Lombard, which is basically just a linking street to Stanwyck. It's...right
now Stanwyck is just kind of a horseshoe shape, and on the bottom of the
horseshoe is Gable.
Elliott: So is it east of Lombard?
Birnbaum: Yes.
Elliott: Okay, okay. It's at the far end of the loop then. Okay, good .... thanks.
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Bimbaum: And that's the street that's going to cross the...
Lehman: Right. Anyone else wish to speak at the public hearing? Public hearing is
closed. Do we have a motion? I'm sorry. Public hearing is opened again.
(laughter)
Franklin: We have to continue the public hearing on this to get signatures on the
conditional zoning agreement.
Lehman: Oh, do we have a motion to continue the public heating?
Vanderhoefi So moved.
Elliott: Second.
Lehman: We have a motion and a second to continue the public heating. All in
favor? Opposed? Motion carries, and I assume that that motion is to
continue that two weeks from tonight, is that appropriate? Okay. Do we
have a motion to defer first consideration?
Vanderhoefi So moved.
Lehman: Moved by Vanderhoef.
Bailey: Second.
Lehman: Seconded by Bailey. All in favor? Opposed? Motion carries.
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ITEM 7. AMENDING SECTION 14, CHAPTER 5, ARTICLE A. BUILDING
CODE, BY ADOPTING THE INTERNATIONAL BUILDING
CODE, 2003 EDITION, AND THE INTERNATIONAL
RESIDENTIAL CODE, INCLUDING APPENDIX F RADON
CONTROL METHODS, 2003 EDITION, PUBLISHED BY THE
INTERNATIONAL CODE COUNCIL AND PROVIDING FOR
CERTAIN AMENDMENTS THEREOF; TO PROVIDE FOR THE
PROTECTION OF THE HEALTH, WELFARE AND SAFETY OF
THE CITIZENS OF IOWA CITY, IOWA
(a) PUBLIC HEARING
Lehman: Public hearing is open.
Smith: Good evening, my name is Dan Smith. I'm here tonight to represent the
Greater Iowa City Area Home Builders Association. First let me
apologize for the state of my voice. I lost it last Thursday and it's coming
back now, much to the chagrin of some of my colleagues and my wife.
(laughter) We are, my comments by the way are applicable to the next
couple of items of course, building codes. Our association is pleased to
endorse the various building code amendments. As you all know, our
building codes reflect a shared commitment to protecting the safety and
health of our community by promoting best practices in the building
construction industry. These amendments are also indicative of the
productive working relationship we share with the building department, in
particular building official Tim Hennes, that we've established in working
together on various building and construction-related matters through the
years. As you know, establishing and revising the voluminous building
code is certainly a daunting task, one that requires diligence, and a special
working knowledge of construction matters. We feel these amendments
represent a common sense approach, because sometimes competing policy
matters before this Council, of safety, health, and housing affordability.
We therefore urge the Council to adopt these proposed amendments to the
building code. Thank you.
Lehman: Dan, I really appreciate the Home Builders speaking up on this. I think
it's a very positive thing and Council is pleased to hear from you.
Smith: We were happy to get the call from Tim to work on this. Any time.
Thank you.
Lehman: Thank you. Does anyone else wish to speak? Public hearing is closed.
(b) CONSIDER AN ORDINANCE (FIRST CONSIDERATION)
Lehman: Do we have a motion?
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Champion: Move first consideration.
Vanderhoefi Second.
Lehman: Moved by Champion; seconded by Vanderhoef. Discussion? Roll call.
Motion carries.
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ITEM 8. AMENDING TITLE 7, CHAPTER 1, FIRE PREVENTION AND
PROTECTION, ADOPTING THE 2003 EDITION OF THE
INTERNATIONAL F1RE CODE, REGULATING AND
GOVERNING THE SAFEGUARDING OF LIFE AND PROPERTY
FROM FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS ARISING FROM THE
STORAGE, HANDLING AND USE OF HAZARDOUS
SUBSTANCES, MATERIALS AND DEVICES, AND FROM
CONDITIONS HAZARDOUS TO LIFE OR PROPERTY IN THE
OCCUPANCY OF BUILDINGS AND PREMISES IN THE CITY OF
IOWA CITY; PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF PERMITS
AND COLLECTION OF FEES THEREFORE; REPEALING
ORDINANCE NO. 02-4034 OF THE CITY OF IOWA CITY AND
ALL OTHER ORDINANCES AND PARTS OF THE ORDINANCES
IN CONFLICT THEREWITH
(a) PUBLIC HEARING
Lehman: Public heating is open. Public hearing is closed.
O'Donnell: Move first consideration.
Vanderhoef: Second.
(b) CONSIDER AN ORDINANCE (FIRST CONSIDERATION)
Lehman: Moved by O'Donnell; seconded by Vanderhoef. Discussion?
Champion: This did remove the sprinkler portion from fraternities and sororities, but
did we include any requirements for sprinkler systems, like in major
remodeling in buildings downtown? Did we....is there any requirement?
Jensen: Nothing beyond the language that's in the model code.
Champion: That's it?
Lehman: Doesn't major remodeling downtown require sprinklers anyway?
Jensen: It would depend upon size of the model and the square footage.
Hennes: It would depend on the, if it's a change of use to an occupancy that would
require sprinkling, so possibly.
Lehman: I see, okay, but not as a blanket policy it's not required?
Hennes: No, that's right.
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Lehman: Thank you.
Champion: I think that's too bad. When I think about the fires we've had downtown,
and how interconnected those buildings are, it's pretty scary. We do have
a sprinkler system at Catherine's.
Lehman: Other discussion? Roll call. Motion carries.
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ITEM 9. AMENDING TITLE 14, CHAPTER 5, ARTICLE B, OF THE IOWA
CITY CODE OF ORDINANCES, BY ADOPTING THE 2003
EDITION OF THE UNIFORM PLUMBING CODE, WITH
CERTAIN AMENDMENTS, TO REGULATE THE PRACTICE,
MATERIALS AND FIXTURES USED IN THE INSTALLATION,
MAINTENANCE, EXTENSION AND ALTERNATION OF ALL
PIPING, FIXTURES, APPLIANCES AND APPURTENANCES IN
CONNECTION WITH VARIOUS PLUMBING SYSTEMS, TO
PROVIDE FOR THE ISSUANCE OF PERMITS AND INSPECTION
OF PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS AND THE COLLECTION OF
FEES, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS
(a) PUBLIC HEARING
Lehman: Public hearing is open.
Elliott: Tell me what an appurtenance is.
Lehman: I can't even say it. (laughter) I think it's some sort of plumbing appliance
of some sort.
Dilkes: Appurtenance, it's an attachment to a big thing.
Lehman: Okay so you can pronounce it. Do you know what it is? (laughter) We
think it's okay, Bob. (laughter) Public hearing is closed.
(b) CONSIDER AN ORDINANCE (FIRST CONSIDERATION)
O'Donnell: Whatever that is, I'll move.
Lehman: Okay we have a motion.
Elliott: Second.
Lehman: ...by O'Donnell; seconded by Elliott. Discussion? Roll call. Motion
carries.
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ITEM 14. THE CITY'S INTENT TO PROCEED WITH AND AUTHORIZING
THE ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY RIGHTS FOR TItE SOUTH
GILBERT STREET IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT - NAPOLEON
LANE TO CITY LIMITS
Lehman: Public hearing is open. Public hearing is closed.
Champion: Move for the resolution.
O'Donnell: Second.
Lehman: Moved by Champion; seconded by O'Donnell. Discussion? Roll call.
Elliott: Steve, on that there's a detour on that road right now, Sand Road. Is that
detour for this project?
Atkins: Oh no, that must be County project.
Knoche: The County's doing an overlay on a bridge on, south of the sanitary sewer
road...
Elliott: Okay, it would have been nice had they put a sign when you started down
Sand Road, um, because I got halfway down and realized there was a
detour. That's fine, so it's not this project. Thank you.
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ITEM 15. CONSIDER A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF A
CHAPTER 28E AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF IOWA
CITY AND JOHNSON COUNTY REGARDING CERTAIN
OBLIGATIONS INVOLVING THE SOUTH GILBERT STREET
IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT
O'Donnell: So moved.
Vanderhoefi Second.
Lehman: Moved by O'Dormell; seconded by Vanderhoef. Discussion? Roll call.
Motion carries. That's another example of cooperation between the City
and the County - that project that we're doing together.
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ITEM 16. CONSIDER AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 10 OF THE
CITY CODE, ENTITLED "USE OF PUBLIC WAYS AND
PROPERTY," TO CREATE A UNIFORM PERMITTING
PROCESS, TO ESTABLISH REQIREMENTS FOR THE
FARMERS MARKET, TO PROVIDE FOR THE
NONCOMMERCIAL PLACEMENT OF OBJECTS IN CITY
PLAZA ON A TEMPORARY BASIS, TO MODIFY THE
PROVISION ON RESIDENTIAL PICKETING, TO CLARIFY TItE
CURRENT PROVISIONS REGULATING MOBILE VENDORS
AND AMBULATORY VENDORS, TO CODIFY SPECIFIC
ADMINISTRATIVE RULES AFFECTING SAID VENDORS, AND
TO MAKE ADDITIONAL NONSUBSTANTIVE CHANGES
(SECOND CONSIDERATION)
Wilbum: Move second consideration.
O'Donnell: Second.
Lehman: Moved by Wilburn; seconded by O'Donnell. Discussion?
Bailey: I want to make a motion to amend this ordinance to reflect the changes
that we got in the memo on 3/31, and then there was an email response
that Eleanor provided to us, and that amendment was included in the
ordinance that was passed out at a work session last night.
Wilburn: Second.
Lehman: We have a motion to amend. We have a second. Discussion of the
amendment?
Fisher: Good evening. My name is Eric Fisher and I'm speaking on behalf of the
Iowa Civil Liberties Union, Hawkeye Chapter, and I'm an attorney. I
work as a supervising attorney for Student Legal Services here at the
University, and graduated from the University in 1993. In terms of, I want
to begin also by thanking Eleanor Dilkes, and I want to thank Regenia
Bailey for their incredible help. Regenia in bringing this together and
listening to our ideas, and Eleanor also for engaging in a dialogue with us.
We're very appreciative of that. We've accomplished a lot of things, but
right now there are two primary items which we object to and would ask
the Council not to approve this particular ordinance, and that is Section
10.1.3., Subsections 15 and 16, no 14 and 15, I apologize.
Vanderhoefi Say that again?
Fisher: 10.1.3., Items 14 and 15. And I'll start with Item 15 first, and it's our
contention that Item 15 is unconstitutional and is facially invalid, and I've
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had discussions with Eleanor and I guess we have a disagreement over
this, but I'll explain to you why I believe this is facially invalid. When
something is facially invalid you can read it and immediately by reading it
it's unconstitutional. In terms of the standard that the Supreme Court
applies, it's called a strict scrutiny standard. In other words, there is a
burden on the City that this is unconstitutional to begin with, and the City
has to show that it isn't. The reason why this is facially invalid is that if
you look at this, if you look at 15, it says, "Insurance is required in the
reasonable amount necessary to minimize risk of harm to persons and
property, based on the nature and size of the event, as determined by the
City's Risk Manager." The problem with that, and there's a Supreme
Court case named Forsythe, is that it vests discretion in the City Risk
Manager. In other words, the City Risk Manager gets to decide how much
the insurance is going to be. Now Eleanor has proposed some language
which I think is very helpful, but won't solve a problem, and the language
she proposed and sent in an email...
Lehman: I think we all got copies of that.
Fisher: You got copies of the email? Okay.
Lehman: We just need your comments.
Fisher: But basically the problem here is the City has, the City Manger has
discretion, or the City Risk Manager has discretion to set an insurance
amount, and even if the City Manager has the best of intentions not to
make that decision based upon the content of who is protesting, that is
impossible. For example, if you had the KKK marching down the streets
of Iowa City, the City Risk Manager might set an insurance liability policy
at a million dollars. If you had the March of Dimes marching down Iowa
City, you know doing the march, they might set the liability policy at
$10,000. Maybe the City Risk Manager would say "well I'm doing it
based upon the number of people that would turn out, the amount of police
fome that would be devoted, and state a whole bunch of content neutral
factors. Still, that decision and that amount of discretion would be
considered to be content-based. In Forsythe, basically what happened was
you had a county determining what the permit fees were going to be, and
the permit fees could be anywhere from zero dollars to a thousand dollars,
and the county said for the KKK "okay, your permit fees are going to be
$100", and the statute didn't delineate how they arrived at this, and the
Forsythe court said well that's unconstitutional. You're giving the county
too much discretion. Now I have a solution that I'm going to maybe put
forth in that you can have a content-neutral insurance provision, but the
way it might have to read is something like "if the event has more than
200 attendees for..." --- in the application it says if there's more than 200
attendees and food and beverages are going to be served, then they must
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procure a liability policy and insurance in the amount of $500,000. That
would be a content-neutral insurance based statute, and there are a number
of....I started reading through municipal ordinances...there are a number
of municipalities that do it that way, and that would get you around your
problem. As long as you vest discretion in someone to decide what it's
going to be, you can put whatever language you want at the end of it, that
they're only going to consider the first amendment, whatever it is, as long
as you have that discretion, it's facially unconstitutional because there's a
possibility, even if it's never actually done, there's the possibility that it
might be unconstitutionally applied, even if it's never ever done, it's still
unconstitutional, and that's what facial, it means to be facially
unconstitutional.
Lehman: You need to wrap up.
Fisher: Okay. The second part that we're opposed to is Item 14, which is the
indemnification requirement, and I've sited some case law, and the
problem with the indemnification requirement is that it impermissibly
places a burden on free speech. In other words, it chills people's desire to
free speech. IfI want to march and now you're telling me that I'm
responsible for any injury to any third person, suppose I march down the
streets of Iowa City and I have something that's controversial and
somebody rushes out towards me, slips in a pot hole and is injured.
You're telling me that now I have the burden of indemnifying either the
City if they pay through their insurance policy, however that may be
based. Courts have held that indemnification requirements are
unconstitutional because the City does not have a compelling interest in
what's called "perspective injuries". In other words, injuries they don't
know that are going to happen. One court, and I'm not going to site the
case, said that basically there are other ways to do this. Either by
criminalizing acts, or by the alternative means that are constitutional. I
think....based upon what I've researched that this would have a chilling
effect that is not constitutional. That it should be removed. I think both
are fairly serious violations of the United States Constitution, and I think
that certainly the insurance one can easily be changed to make it
constitutional. Thank you.
Lehman: Thank you, Eric. Further discussion of the amendment?
Dilkes: I'm not going to go into analysis of the case law. I don't think....unless
you want me to.
Lehman: Well I guess the only question is are you comfortable with the
amendment?
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Dilkes: I'm very comfortable. As I told Eric today, I think he and I just have a
fundamental disagreement and I'm comfortable with the way the
ordinance reads. IfI can just give you a very small example, the United
States Supreme Court in 2002 upheld the Chicago Park District permit
ordinance, which included both an indemnification and an insurance
requirement. The argument was made in that case that waiver provisions
which allowed an administrator to waive certain requirements of the act
was unconstitutional because it allowed that administrator to favor some
speakers and not favor others. The court rejected that challenge and said
that is not a facial problem with the ordinance, on its face. That's a
problem with the ordinance as it's applied and if it is used in a way to
favor speakers, or disfavor others, it can be challenged on that basis, but it
is not invalid on its face. I think Eric is making very similar arguments in
response to our insurance and indemnification provisions.
Lehman: Okay. All in favor of the amendment as presented, signify by saying
"aye". Those opposed? The amendment carries. I...do we need a
re...need the person who made and seconded the motion for second
consideration would they be amenable to having that changed to a first
consideration motion?
Wilbum: Yes.
Karr: It was Wilbum and O'Donnell.
O'Donnell: Yes.
Lehman: Okay, so the motion now is for first consideration of the ordinance as
amended. Is there any further discussion?
Bailey: I'm going to support this first consideration reading and, Eric, as I
indicated to you, I'm willing to discuss this further and I'm sure that I'll
be in contact with Eleanor to begin to understand this better, but I think
this could move it forward and we can have further discussion.
Lehman: Roll call. Motion carries.
Karr: Motion to accept correspondence.
O'Donnell: So moved.
Wilbum: Second.
Lehman: Motion and a second to accept correspondence. All in favor? Opposed?
Motion carries.
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ITEM 17. CONSIDER AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 4, ENTITLED
"ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES," CHAPTER 5, ENTITLED
"PROHIBITIONS AND RESTRICTIONS," AND TITLE 10,
ENTITLED "USE OF PUBLIC WAYS AND PROPERTY,"
CHAPTER 9, ENTITLED "PARKS AND RECREATION
REGULATIONS," SECTION 2, ENTITLED "PROHIBITED
ACTIONS IN PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS" TO ALLOW FOR
THE SALE, POSSESSION, AND CONSUMPTION OF BEER AND
WINE UNDER LIMITED CIRCUMSTANCES IN A CITY PARK,
ON PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY, OR ON A CITY GROUND,
EXCLUDING CITY BUILDINGS, PURSUANT TO A WRITTEN
AGREEMENT WITH THE CITY (SECOND CONSIDERATION)
Vanderhoef: Move second consideration.
Bailey: Second.
Lehman: Moved by Vanderhoef; seconded by Bailey. Discussion?
Skinstad: My name is Anne Skinstad. I am a faculty member in the College for
Public Health, Department of Community and Behavioral Health, and I'm
also an alcohol researcher. And I have very serious concerns about
allowing expansion of alcohol consumption in public places like City
Park, and it seems like a very small thing to do, to expand it, to be
associated with the Shakespeare Festival and the City Park. However, it
sends a very clear message that we have research to show, is negative.
What we are trying to do in Iowa City with the ordinance of last year, is to
reduce access to alcohol, and here we expanded. Every research program
that is successful when it comes to prevention of expansion of alcohol
problems is reduction of consumption. So I would really urge City
Council to reconsider, and think about what kind of message it's sending
when we at the same time are trying to reduce access in the City of Iowa
City.
Lehman: Thank you. Other discussion? Roll call. Motion carries 6 to 1; Lehman
voting in the negative.
Wilbum: I invite the woman who spoke up at the dais there to, when the Council
revisits the existing 19 and under ordinance to please come then and
express some concerns. I think when you're talking about access, that is
probably a greater impact than what this is talking about doing, in my
opinion.
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ITEM 19. CONSIDER AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CITY CODE,
TITLE 14, "UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE, CHAPTER 1,
"STREETS, SIDEWALKS AND PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY,"
"ARTICLE A. STREETS, SIDEWALKS AND PUBLIC RIGHT OF
WAY GENERALLY", SECTION 14-1A-6, "MAINTENANCE OF
PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY", TO IMPOSE LIABILITY ON
ABUTTING PROPERTY OWNERS FOR FAILURE TO
MAINTAIN ALL PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY LOCATED
BETWEEN TIlE EDGE OF TItE STREET OR CURB LINE AND
THE PROPERTY LINE (FIRST CONSIDERATION)
Vanderhoef: Move first consideration.
O'Donnell: Second.
Lehman: Moved by Vanderhoef; seconded by O'Donnell. Discussion?
Elliott: Does this mean that the property owner can do with it what he or she
wants to do, unless it impedes the flow of traffic?
Champion: No.
Lehman: They'd still be subject to all the other ordinances we have.
Vanderhoefi Yeah.
Elliott: For instance, signs. If you have responsibility for that area, why do you
not have the responsibility for putting signs there if you'd like to?
Lehman: We prohibit that, signs on public property.
Elliott: Seems like a one-way street to me.
Lehman: No, no, no, no. I think the City owns the sidewalk too, is that not correct?
Dilkes: Right, but...
Lehman: Right, we have to put the sidewalk in and you have to maintain it.
Dilkes: The maintenance obligation, both by state code and by city ordinance, for
years and years, has imposed the maintenance obligations on the abutting
property owner for the sidewalk and for the parking area. That's why we
do our sidewalk notices that require people to repair their sidewalks, that
whole kind of thing. We have a number of ordinances, as Regenia
mentioned last night, that deal with what you can and can't do in that area,
you know, what we...need a permit to plant a tree, and that kind of thing.
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None of that is really changed by this ordinance. What this ordinance
does is simply place, or attempt to place the liability with the party that
has the maintenance obligation.
Elliott: Excuse me. I understand the legality but I don't think it still makes it
right. I mean, the City says it's my responsibility but ifI want to do
something, the City says I can't do it. I understand, it doesn't need to go
any further than there, but at least to me it's not right.
Lehman: But we also say...
Elliott: If it's my responsibility and I wanted to put a sign there, I ought to be able
to put a sign there.
Lehman: Well we also say you can't park your car in the grass in your front yard.
Elliott: And I've been wrong before. (laughter)
Lehman: You'll move your car, right? (laughter) Other discussion?
Dilkes: The simplest, the simplest example is as Dee mentioned last night, is
somebody who has a gap in their sidewalk from one square to another
that's this high, and will not fix it despite our request that they do so, and
someone trips and falls on that, and it seems logical to us that it should be
the person who failed to repair it.
Lehman: Even if we have not requested that they repair it, and someone falls, they
are still liable.
Dilkes: We'll make that argument.
Lehman: Right. Okay. Further discussion? Roll call. Motion carries.
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ITEM 20. CONSIDER A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE
ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY INTERESTS NECESSARY FOR
CONSTRUCTION OF THE DUBUQUE STREET / FOSTER ROAD
INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
Vanderhoef: Move the resolution.
O'Donnell: Second.
Lehman: Moved by Vanderhoef; seconded by O'Donnell. Discussion?
Champion: This ~vill be nice when it's done.
Lehman: Really nice. Roll call. Motion carries.
Vanderhoefi Just a note, so people don't get overanxious. The way I read the capital
improvements, it will not be started until next construction season, next
summer.
Atkins: I don't think so, Dee. (several talking at once)
Knoche: We're currently looking for a July letting on this project so it'll start this
fall.
Vanderhoef: A letting? So it'll still start this fall.
Knoche: Yes.
Vanderhoef: Oh, good. I thought I read...
Atkins: It might not be finished.
Vanderhoefi Well that's true. Early snow can do anything to us. (laughter)
Lehman: We'll just be sure that we have detours during football season. (laughter)
Wasn't funny --- I'm sorry.
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ITEM 22. CONSIDER A RESOLUTION RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO.
79-462 AND ADOPTING IN LIEU THEREOF A NEW
RESOLUTION FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A SENIOR
CENTER FUND FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF GIFTS,
MEMORIALS, AND FUNDRAISING REVENUE TO THE IOWA
CITY/JOHNSON COUNTY SENIOR CENTER
Lehman: We've been asked to defer this one to ....
Bailey: Indefinitely.
Lehman: Before we do the indefinitely, I was...received a call today from the
Chairman of the Senior Center Commission. There is some time
sensitivity to this...not that we can't meet the time frame, but they would
like very much for us to be able to vote on this at the first meeting in May.
So if we have our concerns at the next work session, Eleanor, would two
weeks time be long enough for you to give us an opinion so we could
perhaps move forward?
Dilkes: Yeah I think so.
Bailey: Can we also have the Chair and the staff at the next work session?
Lehman: They will be at the next work session.
Atkins: I talked to Jay also and encouraged him to be here.
Lehman: All right, so...
Vanderhoef: Move to defer until first meeting in May.
Lehman: Okay, we have a motion to defer.
O'Donnell: Second.
Lehman: We have a second. All in favor? Opposed? Motion carries.
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ITEM 23. CONSIDER A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE TERMS ON
WHICH THE CITY WILL PURCHASE A 4-ACRE PARCEL OF
LAND EAST OF IOWA CITY ADJACENT TO LOWER WEST
BRANCH ROAD, AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN
AND THE CITY CLERK TO ATTEST DOCUMENTATION OF
THE SAME
Atkins: Ernie, may I interrupt a moment?
Lehman: You certainly may.
Atkins: That was a deferral to May. I think you meant to defer...
Lehman: First meeting in May.
Karr: May 4th.
Atkins: The work on this is in the April meeting though.
Kart: The work session is April 19th.
Atkins: Fine.
Lehman: The resolution is the portion that we deferred.
Champion: I don't think it's as complicated as they're trying to make it.
Atkins: You're probably right. (laughter)
Lehman: Probably not, most things aren't...(reads Item 23).
Champion: Move the resolution.
Vanderhoef: Second.
Lehman: Moved by Champion; seconded by Vanderhoefi Discussion?
Elliott: I need to abstain. I have a conflict of interest.
Lehman: Okay. Let me just say that the amount that the City is proposing to pay for
this property is below the assessed, the appraised value.
Atkins: The appraised value, yes.
O'Donnell: And the usage, Ernie, is for future location of water storage tanks.
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Lehman: The time to buy it is now, before...okay. Other discussion? Roll call.
Motion carries 6 to 0, with one abstention.
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ITEM 24. CONSIDER A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE EAST CENTRAL
IOWA COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS (ECICOG) REGIONAL
COMPREHENSIVE SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN
Champion: Move the resolution.
Wilburn: Second.
Lehman: Moved by Champion; seconded by Wilburn. Discussion?
Bailey: I noticed in this that there is once again the goal of increasing recycling for
multi-family housing, which was a previous goal, and I would like to
encourage us to do more about that beyond encouraging multi-family
dwellers to simply use our drop sites.
Atkins: We very much agree with you on that.
Lehman: Steve, is this something our recycling person would be...
Atkins: ...there are very few changes; this is something that ECICOG does on our
behalf. I've asked that they prepare, and I should have it for you within
the next meeting or two, a list of projects that we have pending that we
will be proposing out of this plan.
Lehman: Okay. Roll call. Motion carries.
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ITEM 25. CONSIDER A RESOLUTION AWARDING CONTRACT AND
AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN AND THE CITY CLERK
TO ATTEST A CONTRACT FOR CONSTRUCTION OF TItE 2004
ASPItALT RESURFACING PROJECT
Lehman: We received one bid from the L. L. Pelling Company of North Liberty for
$374,126. The estimate from Public Works Engineering was $369,000.
Public Works is recommending awarding the contract to L. L. Pelling
Company.
Vanderhoef: Move the resolution.
Wilbum: Second.
Lehman: Moved by Vanderhoef; seconded by Wilbum. Discussion?
Champion: What is this project, Steve? Is this ....
Atkins: This is Rochester, Morningside...
Champion: It's not just pot holes?
Atkins: No.
Knoche: This will be Rochester from Seventh into Governor Street, and
Momingside right by City High School. There is some areas in the City
Park area that have some parking lots that they want overlay, and also
some area in Oakland Cemetery that they want overlay...
Atkins: Ron, is this strictly overlay or...is there some reconstruction as well?
Reconstruction meaning much more substantial than an overlay.
Knoche: The majority of it is just overlay, but we will mill out the Rochester and
Momingside with some curb and gutter replacement.
Atkins: Okay.
Lehman: Okay. Further discussion? Roll call. Motion carries.
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ITEM 26a. CONSIDER RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE ADVERTISEMENT
FOR SALE OF NOT TO EXCEED $5,045,000 GENERAL
OBLIGATION REFUNDING BONDS, SERIES 2004A, NOT TO
EXCEED $11,395,000 GENERAL OBLIGATION REFUNDING
BONDS, SERIES 2004B AND NOT TO EXCEED $16,385,000
SEWER REVENUE REFUNDING BONDS, SERIES 2004, AND
APPROVING ELECTRONIC BIDDING PROCEDURES
Vanderhoefi Move the resolution.
Champion: Second.
Lehman: Moved by Vanderhoef; seconded by Champion. These are refinancing
existing debt, is that correct?
Atkins: That's correct.
Lehman: Discussion? Roll call. Motion carries.
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ITEM 27. CONSIDER A MOTION APPROVING A TENTATIVE
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF IOWA CITY AND THE
POLICE LABOR RELATIONS ORGANIZATION OF IOWA CITY
FOR A COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT TO BE
EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2004, THROUGH JUNE 30, 2005
Champion: Move the resolution.
Lehman: Moved by Champion.
Bailey: Second.
Lehman: Seconded by Bailey. This provides for a 2.5% wage increase.
Discussion? Roll call. I'm sorry, all in favor? Opposed? Motion carries.
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ITEM 28. ANNOUNCEMENT OF VACANCIES
Lehman: (reads vacancies) Now, we have another proclamation. We didn't get it at
the beginning of the meeting but we're going to get it at the end. (reads
proclamation for Alcohol Awareness Month)
Kan': Here to accept the proclamation is Anne Skinstad. (applause)
Skinstad: It's a pleasure for me to be able to accept this proclamation and I do it on
behalf of a group of coalition, community coalition, consisting of
community-based treatment centers, University of Iowa, the University of
Iowa Athletic Department, and we do this every year because we are very
concerned about underage drinking and underage drinking is something
that we see a lot in Iowa City. Unfortunately we are not the only state in
this region. The upper Midwest has this as a general problem. What we
have are a number of programs that you will have access to during this
upcoming month. People will be able to get assessment of their alcohol
problems anonymously at MECCA is they so choose. We will also give
that opportunity for students every Thursday, from this week on, in
different places on the campus. We are trying to make it possible to listen
to some of this on radio and we will also try and do it in sermons in select
churches. So you will hear from us during the month of April, and this is
very nice that we can focus on alcohol abuse this month. Thank you.
Lehman: Thank you.
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ITEM 30. CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION
Lehman: Robert?
Elliott: Couple items....in Human Rights, I'm going to read this because I think
it's rather important. In the Human Rights Commission minutes of
February 24, Commissioner Paul Retish is quoted saying 'we may need a
more balanced commission, including those who don't view things as we
do', he said. 'We would make more progress if we knew what other
people are thinking and they might have more of an impact on change.'
And I just call that statement to the attention of my fellow Council
members and other Commission members. I think that it's a good
thought. Happy day on Dover Street last week. A young lady that my
wife and I saw grow up from a little child and become a wonderful mother
and her two little daughters, saw their husband and father come home
from Iraq. Whole, safe and home. It was a great day on Dover Street.
Lehman: Connie?
Champion: Well my news isn't quite as much fun as that, but I'm wondering....what I
would like to see done, I would like to see it as a matter of policy if
anybody else on the Council is interested. When we approve negotiations
for salary, what is that called? The collective bargaining agreements. I
would like, now-, I would like not that it's just going to be this 2.5% pay
raise. I would like to know what this employee is costing us more than
last year, because we know it's more than 2.5. If there's a pay raise you're
paying more Social Security. Since our benefit package is so good, I'm
sure they've gone way up, and I think we ought to know as a Council and
we ought to know as a public, on what....how much more this employee is
costing us this year. I don't know if anybody else is interested in that, but
I think it'd be a very good...
Lehman: Connie, I think...you know last night we alluded to the fact that we may
have some discussions, work sessions, on special topics, and I think last
night, Dee, you brought that up and obviously you've mentioned it for the
last two years, and that has got to be a long (TAPE ENDS)
Champion: But I mean, what I'm talking about isn't a difficult, long thing. I just want
to know how much more this employee is costing us. The fact that we
might think about setting limits on that benefit package tax, that's much
more complicated.
Lehman: Okay.
Elliott: I think it's important when we talk about not just salary, but talk about
total compensation.
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Champion: Exactly.
Atkins: We are prepared to provide you with that information, and I had
understood that you wanted to have at least bat around some policies and
how we might want to address it some time in the future. It's really a
mar[er of...Ernie, we'll get with you and get it scheduled because we're
prepared to bring that to you.
Lehman: Mike?
O'Dormell: Well as Bob mentioned, it was happy day on Dover Street and for that
matter, for the whole county. I went out to the Coral Ridge Ice Rink and
watched as 109th came home from Iraq, along with about 3,500 other
people. It was incredible. There were fathers who got to pick up their
babies for the first time, and mothers who got to hug their children after
over a year's absence. But it was an incredible thing out there, and it
really doesn't matter which side of the war you come down on, the people
have bonded together to support these troops, and it really is an
incredible....it was an incredible honor to be there. That's all I have.
Lehman: Dee?
Vanderhoef: Last Saturday, Bob joined me, we were invited to the inauguration of the
new student senate president and vice president, Lindsay Schutte and
Jason Shore, and they gave their thoughts and hopes for this coming year,
but what was very interesting to me was the speeches given by the
outgoing president and vice president, Nate Green and May Rose
Wagman, and how they have changed over this year. How they have
grown. I must say that Nate had very kind words to offer about working
with Mayor Lehman, and what he thought, it was terribly important to be
working with the City. Offered up that the first item on the agenda
probably in the fall for the new group will be to discuss the alcohol
ordinance, and he had already mentioned that he went through a list of his
things that he enjoyed and accomplished, and things that he didn't enjoy,
which was an interesting kind of list, but they're very, very nice young
people, and I wish them well in their futures. They will be graduating,
two of them will be graduating this spring, and I look forward to working
with the new people for the coming year.
Wilbum: Nothing tonight.
Lehman: Regenia?
Bailey: I just wanted to get some information -- as we develop the area off of,
north of I80, off Dodge Street and Highway 1, I wanted to explore the
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possibility of getting some pedestrian or bike routes over by 80 because I
think we saw tonight there's a lot of foot traffic out in that direction. We
know we have people walking and biking to NCS to work and getting a
cost feasibility looking at that as we anticipate the north Dodge project,
and further improvement of 180.
Atkins: We've made that an employment center so I don't think there's any doubt
(can't hear).
Vanderhoefi Well we talked about it...
Bailey: So if other people are interested I think we should look into that. I mean
when we look at traffic, we have to look at all sort of vehicles, including
bike and pedestrian use, right, Bob? (laughter)
Elliott: Yes.
Vanderhoef: ...and it's for both bridges actually, Dubuque Street and Dodge Street.
Both need...
Atkins: Ultimately the state and the feds are going to have a lot to say about it but
! suspect when they see the land use that occurs out there (can't
understand).
Vanderhoef: ...and it's growing.
Bailey: And that's what we like to see so let's encourage that.
Lehman: Two things, first I will have to say I thoroughly enjoyed working with
Nate Green as well. He was a very bright young man, and I felt very
anxious to work with the City of Iowa City on issues that directly affected
the students, and some that probably didn't directly affect the students, but
it was great and I look forward to working with Lindsay. I've not met
Lindsay, but I think we started something last year that I'd like to see
become a tradition where there is some really meaningful interaction
between the student government and the City government because
obviously we have a tremendous amount of things in common. Relative
to the 109th, we have two City employees, I understand, who are back at
work.
Atkins: Not back at work yet.
Lehman: Not back yet, but they're home and home safe.
Atkins: Home safe, yes.
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Lehman: I mean, that truly was....I was unable to be there. Had I been there and
they asked me if I'd speak, there's only one thing I could have said and
that's just "thanks". Tremendous sacrifice on those guys, and women's,
part. It's great to have them back. Steve?
Atkins: Nothing, sir.
Lehman: Eleanor? Marian? Do we have a motion to adjourn? Second?
O'Dormell: Moved.
Wilbum: Second.
Lehman: All in favor? Motion carries. We are adjourned.
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