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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1996-04-23 Bd Comm minutesMINUTES PAP~KS AND RECREATION COMMISSION M~CH 6, 1996 MEMBERS PRESENT: Jana Egeland, Judith Klink, Deb Liddell, Bruce Maurer, Rex Pruess, Alan Stroh, Ross Wilburn MEMBERS ABSENT: Ken Fearing, Matt Pacha STAFF PRESENT: Terry Trueblood, Bob Howell, Marilyn Kriz FORMAL ACTION TAKEN: Moved by E~eland, seconded by Pruess, minutes as amended. Unanimous. to approve the March 6, 1996 IPRA CONFo: U OF I SOFTBALL COMPLEX: With respect to the commission's February 14, 1996 minutes, Klink asked that the first sentence of the fifth paragraph (discussion regarding the Jensen and Neuzil Properties) be deleted and replaced with the following sentence in order to reflect a more accurate statement: "Klink stated that there is strong support in the Weeber-Harlocke neighborhood for buying parkland in the Jensen tract, but only after there is a comprehensive plan which includes the whole adjacent Ruppert tract and the placement of the planned trail linking the two proposed parks in the area." Moved b~ Egeland. secQnded by Pruess. to approve the March 6, 1996 minutes as amended. Unanimous. Trueblood stated transportation, lodging and registration arrangements needed to be made by March 22 for co~Lmission men,hers who would be attending the annual conference of the Iowa Park and Recreation Association to be held in Des Moines April 20-22. Stroh indicated he would be attending the Citizen Board Members Day (Sunday, April 21), noting he would not need transportation or lodging. Wilburn, Egeland, Pruess and Liddell indicated they would not be able to attend. Klink and Maurer indicated they would inform Trueblood before 3/22/96 if they were able to attend. Trueblood stated the City Council approved the agreement between the University of Iowa and the City of Iowa City for the lighting and joint use of the Hawkeye Softball Complex. He stated the entire lighting system was ordered directly from Musco Lighting, and installation will be done in-house by the University, with City staff available to assist them if necessary. Trueblood indicated the project should be completed by the time Iowa City Girls Softball is ready to play, and if not, back up plans are in place. Maurer asked if the costs would be shared 50-50 with the University, with Trueblood indicating the City is paying 100 percent of the project in exchange for long term use of the facility. Pruess asked how the Mercer Park fields would be utilized after Iowa City Girls Softball is returned to Napoleon Park and adult softball is moved to the University complex. Trueblood stated plans are for Mercer Park to be utilized primarily as a youth softball/baseball complex. Egeland stated this is a great example of the University and City working together, with NOS: Trueblood stating the University has been very cooperative. Egeland asked about concession; Trueblood stated concessions would be operated by the University, unless they chose not to, then the City would do so. Liddell asked if Iowa City Girls Softball would be allowed to have concessions at City Park, with Trueblood stating they would be allowed if requested. With respect to the Neighborhood Open Space Task Force, Klink reported the majority of the last meeting consisted of a presentation on the South Area Study/Plan. The group also discussed reviewing the neighborhood open space action plan and prioritizing the objectives of each neighborhood open space district. The task force will be meeting Friday, March 8, to begin this process. Liddell stated the task force will be developing a time table to meet with neighborhood groups to determine if priorities established are consistent with the neighborhood needs as the neighborhood groups see them. Commission members will be asked to commit to attending at least one neighborhood meeting. Liddell stated the task force was optimistic about completing their charge by the end of the school year. Trueblood distributed a copy of a proposed memo to the City Council regarding the Jensen and Neuzil properties, stating the City Council requested an official response from the Commission with respect to the Jensen and Neuzil property appraisals. Klink stated she felt the Commission should reiterate the Commission's proposal to the City Council made approximately one year ago regarding the need to acquire parkland in this area. Trueblood stated the City Council specifically wanted the Commission's reaction to the appraisals. Klink felt the memo was negative in that it indicated the Commission did not want to pursue acquisition of these properties "at these prices", when in reality the Commission would want to do so if the asking prices were reasonable. She noted if Ruppert came up with a plan tomorrow that would dovetail into this neighborhood she felt the neighborhoods would do everything they could to acquire the land as long as they see how it fits into the whole picture. She stated the neighborhoods felt very strongly and would pursue fund raising efforts. Pruess shared Klink's concern, noting the intent of the memo is good but he was not sure how others might interpret it. Liddell felt the memo and minutes of the February 14th meeting of the commission were clear, noting they did not indicate the commission would never be interested in acquisition of either property, but wanted to keep options open if circumstances should change with respect to prices. The commission as a whole felt the appraised prices were too high. Klink stated the neighborhoods do not want a street through this area or high rises constructed. She stated it was her suggestion that the memo set out that the overall plan for this area is to have two neighborhood parks with a trail connecting them. Pruess noted the commission is well aware of the open space deficit in this area, and will explore options including these and others. Stroh felt the proposed memo reflected this and recognized the commission's 2 CoIoP.: concern with the open space deficit in this area. Egeland and Maurer stated they did not have strong feelings against changing the memo. Klink suggested deleting the bold print and underlining of the word "not", underlining "appraised prices", and deleting the first part of the second paragraph ("Rather than close the door completely, however,"). Wilburn stated if someone might interpret the memo negatively removing the emphasis on the word "not" and part of the second paragraph was the simplest way to change the memo. No objections were raised by the commission with respect to these changes. Trueblood reviewed the memo previously sent to the commission regarding the status of the major capital improvement project requests prioritizedby the commission last June. With respect to expansion of the Mercer Park Aquatic Center, staff will apprise the commission as soon as it is determined whether or not the School District is interested in being involved in this endeavor. Liddell noted there was an article in the newspaper attributed to Southeast Junior High School looking forward to the expanded facility at Mercer to help with overcrowding at the junior high. With respect to the Soccer Complex, staff met with University representatives regarding the University's interest in establishing intercollegiate women's soccer and possibly using some of the Soccer Complex fields until the University fields are ready. Trueblood stated the Recreation Center pool will be closed for four to six weeks beginning March 10 for the pool filtration project. Letters were sent to swim pass holders who had indicated they mainly use the Recreation Center pool. They were informed that the Mercer Park Aquatic Center has the same programs available, but if it is not convenient for them to use that facility they may bring their swim pass in to obtain a pro-rated refund. Trueblood stated, if approved, a landscape architect will be completing a proposed concept plan for Sturgis Ferry Park. Stroh asked if Hickory Hill Park could also be looked at, in particular, the part recently designated as parkland. Trueblood reported $60,000 has been budgeted to redo the trail system, part of which has been spent redoing the section near First Avenue. Stroh stated future trails and how to use this area need to be identified. Trueblood agreed, noting the need to hire someone to develop such a plan. Egeland stated she felt the cemetery expansion issue should be resolved prior to this being done. Trueblood noted the primary area the plan would deal with would not be affected by the cemetery issue, although this needs to be kept under consideration. Pruess questioned the lack of CIP budget line items for developing the recent addition to Wetherby Park and the trail in the Rohret/Mormon Trek area. Trueblood stated these projects are part of the operating budget as opposed to the CIP budget. He noted development of the recent addition to Wetherby Park could be included as a CIP project in the next CIP budget process. Trueblood indicated he will prepare a memo updating the cor~mission 3 P&R FOUND.: RNAC REPORT: Trueblood indicated he will prepare a memo updating the commission on the various trail projects. Egeland stated the Foundation has not met since the commission's last meeting. She indicated she felt that it will be a struggle to get the Mercer Park expansion project done unless the School Board agrees to help. Maurer stated they have discussed investigating the possibility of hiring a professional fund raiser. Egeland indicated there still needs to be a strong core of people to work with that person, noting she was not sure if there is one. Pruess reported the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission discussed the proposed amendments to the JCCOG transportation plans. The funds marked by North Liberty to improve Highway 965/Penn Street will be used instead to build a pedestrian bike trail from North Liberty to the Oakdale Campus; the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission went on record supporting this action. There is a proposal to amend the plans for the proposed Oakdale Boulevard extending from First Avenue in Coralville to Dubuque Street to make it more of an arterial street thereby putting it in a better position for funding; the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission went on record supporting this action, but added they would like the extension to include an eight foot sidewalk along it. They also discussed the Press Citizen editorial opposing bike trails to which they drafted a letter supporting the river trail, which was published. He reported the Woodland Committee will be meeting to recognize and encourage woodland tree protection, and Larry Wilson gave a presentation on the University of Iowa River Corridor landscape plan. Wilburn stated he was pleased to see the letters to the editor supporting trails and the trail network concept. He indicated he posted a couple of notes on the Internet bulletin board and also received comments from individuals supporting trails. COMMI$SION TIME: Pruess reported on correspondence received from Joe Bolkcom which set out the trail projects coming to Johnson County in 1997 and 1998. Construction of the West Overlook recreational trail, a one- half mile trail along West Overlook Road from Dubuque Street to the Corp of Engineers property, will begin in the spring of 1997. The Prairie Du Chien recreational trail, a 1.5 mile trail extending along Prairie Du Chien Road from 1-80 north to the intersection of Newport Road, is also planned for 1997. Reconstruction of the sidewalk along North Dubuque Street, starting north of Butler Bridge and stopping at the intersection of West Overlook Road and Dubuque Street, into a bona fide trail is tentatively planned for 1998. Pruess indicated he was pleased that BIC and FRIENDS efforts in promoting biking were being recognized, and "Bicycle Friendly Community" signs will be placed at the entrances to Iowa City. Egeland inquired about the status of the City Plaza Task Force, with Trueblood stating the City Manager will be sending a letter to task force members in the near future. Liddell assured the cc~mmisslon that the letter to the editor she drafted regarding the proposed bike trails in Iowa City was nailed to the Press Citizen on February 26, 1996. She noted they have called twice to confirm she wrote it, and was told they have had a lot of air time on the issue and will try to publish the letter when they can. DIRECTOR'S REPORT: Trueblood reported on the following: CRANDIC PARK. CRANDIC Railroad has indicated they might be willing to donate the park to the city and will need an updated legal description which will probably require a survey. PIN GRANTS. Twelve applications have been submitted, five of which directly or indirectly affect Dark and recreation interests. The Longfellow Neighborhood Association has submitted applications for a kiosk, benches and plantings in the Longfellow Manor Area and for street tree plantings; the Friendship Neighborhood Association for adult fitness equipment at Scott Park; and the Grant Wood Neighborhood Association to enhance the play area in Fairmeadows Park. Another application of some interest is one to establish a .bird sanctuary at Grant Wood School. COLLEGE GREEN PARK. The park has been nominated for 1996 for an award recognizing new or refurbished "streetscapes." This award program was started up by the by the Design Review Committee. Wilburn noted an individual has offered to build bat houses in City Park if the city supplies the lumber, and asked staff to follow-up. Trueblood noted the Johnson County Songbird group will be putting up bat houses in the Whispering Meadows Wetlands area. Trueblood stated a water line project is being planned along Dubuque Street from Park Road through Terrell Mill Park. Installation of an eight foot sidewalk with necessary curbs to go over the water line will be made a part of this project. The sidewalk will run along the west side of Dubuque Street through Terrell Mill Park, which will eventually tie into Taft Speedway, the peninsula area, and the Iowa River dam area trail. Moved by Egeland, seconded by Wilburn. to adjourn. Unanimous. The meeting adjourned at 6:25 p.mo 5 MINUTES IOWA CITY AIRPORT COMI(ISSION THURSDAY MARCH 14, 1996 - 5545 P.M. IOWA CITY TRANSIT FACILITY MEMBERS PRESENT: Howard Horan, Rick Mascari, Robert Hicks Pat Foster STAFF PRESENT: Anne Burnside, Ron 0'Neil CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Horan called the meeting to order at 5:45 p.mo APPROVAL OF MINUTES: The minutes of the February 8, 1996, meeting were approved as submitted. AUTHORIZATION OF EXPENDITURES: Mascari made a motion to approve the bills° motion and it was approved 4 o 0. Foster seconded the PUBLIC DISCUSSION - ITEMS NOT ON AGENDA: Jones, from Iowa City Flying Service, said he would like access to the furnace and to turn on the air conditioner. He said a tenant should have access to the furnace. Mascari noted that ICF$ once had a key and wanted to know why they could no longer have one. O'Neil said several things happened that no one would claim responsibility for. There have been a number of times when ICFS has had the heat and the air conditioning running at the same time. The final event that caused the lock to be changed was when someone turned a boiler up too high and caused about $ 2500 damage to the boiler. Jones also wanted to know why the bathrooms had been torn up so long. O'Neil said the bathrooms were being renovated to meet ADA standards. Because of the age of the building, it was taking longer to match some of the tile and other items that required change. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION/ACTION: a. Master Plan Study - Jerry Searle passed out copies of several chapters of the Master Plan. He asked the Commission to review them and make comments before they were put in final form. He said a preliminary ALP will be sent to the FAA in the near future. When initial comments are received from the FAA, those changes will be incorporated in the Master Plan. The financial plan will then be put together and included in the Master Plan. Searle said that the Commission should concentrate on obstruction removal. The more obstructions that are removed before the Master Plan is completed, the better off the Commission will be. Karen Countryman discussed putting together a brochure instead of some of the newsletters described in the Scope of Services. The Commission offered suggestions on the format and context of the brochure. Some of the suggestions included an executive summary and a copy of the ALP. The brochure could also be used as a marketing tool for the areas of industrial and commercial property on the Airport that the Commission would like to develop. Countryman will work on a design to present to the Commission° The Commission will set a public hearing for the Master Plan at the April Commission meeting. ~. Sports Car Club of America - Bob Kistler requested use of Airport property for two dates during the summer to hold a SCCA rally and competition. The events would be held on a Sunday and would require Commission supervision. The events would be scheduled from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 pom. Hicks said he would supervise the event on August 4 and Foster will supervise the event on September 22. Mascari made a motion to allow the SCCA to use the Airport property for two one-day events on August 4 and September 22. Foster seconded the motion and it was passed 4 - 0. Kistler will fill out the application and return the application and damage deposit to O'Neil. Oo Snow removal policy - Mascari said his subcommittee had met once and had developed some ideas to suggest to the Commission. The subcommittee was not ready to present the recommendations. A formal draft will be forwarded to the Commission before the next meeting. Mascari commented that a great job was done clearing the snow after the last snow fall. Horan said that Dick Blum visited the FSDO office and they ~ o~ ~ at emphasized to him that the FAA circular that Mascari r~f ..... ~ the last meeting was to be used as a guideline only. do Corporate hangar lease - #32 Jones, from ICFS, requested a modification to his contract. He wanted to be released from his corporate hangar contract if he were to build a new shop building and no longer needed the extra hangar space. Horan said that if ICFS were to build a new shop, it would probably involve some modification of the current FBO contract. He said if ICFS was serious about negotiation, the Commission should be willing to discuss the issue with him. He said this means serious negotiation, not immediately wanting to go to arbitration without trying to negotiate. Jones will make a written request, clarifying the language he wants for the corporate hangar lease. e. "Old Jet" relooation request - Bud Lewis said several veterans groups were opposed to moving the F 86 jet from Iowa City. He said the groups do not object to moving the jet on the Airport or from the Airport to a park, but they would like it to remain in Iowa City. Horan said no decision had been made on if, or when, it would be moved. Hicks made a motion to defer ths item to a later date. seconded the motion and it passed 4 - 0. Foster f. Iowa City Landsoaplng lease - O'Neil said this is a one year lease, identical to last year's lease. ICL leases 3.6 acres and pays monthly rent of $ 300.00. O'Neil said ICL is moving some things around on the property to enhance drainage across the property. Hicks made a motion for a resolution to sign a one year lease with ICL. Mascari seconded the motion and at roll call vote, it passed 4 - 0, with Blum being absent. go West Corporate Hangar' Building - O'Neil presented specifications for bids for the proposed building. He said that in order to see if the building is financially possible, the Commission needs to finalize criteria and.advertise for bids. The Commission discussed what size of building they wanted and where it should be located. Two locations and two building sizes were discussed. Site preparation would cost more for the smaller hangar because more taxi way would be required and it would be further to hook up to utilities. The Commission decided to go out for bids on the 100' by 100' building. Hicks made a motion to set a public hearing for the hangar building on March 26, 1996, at 12:00 p.m. Foster seconded the motion and it was passed 4 - 0. CHAIRPERSON'S REPORT~ Horan said he had nothing further to report. COMMISSION MEMBERS' REPORTB: No items were presented. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT: O'Neil commented that no one came to the public meeting on February 16 for the Master Plan Study. An appeal was filed for the airspace study concerning a proposed antenna northwest of Runway 12/30. Blum, Foster, Horan and O'Neil will attend the Iowa Aviation Conference in Ames on April 26, 1996. O'Neil said a copy of the StateWeather and Navigational Aids study is available for review. The application for State AIP projects will be out soon. If Commission members have any projects, 0'Neil will check to see if they are eligible for funding. O'Neil said an aerobatics team from Florida would like to relocate in Iowa and was looking for hangar space. He will get more details from them before the next meeting. ELECTION OF OFFICERS: Hicks made a motion to maintain the same slate of officers. Mascari seconded the motion. Horan and Foster agreed to serve another year as chairperson and vice-chairperson and the motion passed 4 - 0o SET NEXT MEETING= The next regular meeting is scheduled for April 11, 1996, at 5:45 pom. ADJOURNMENT: Hicks moved to adjourn the meeting° Mascari and the me~ting adjourned at 7:09 p.m. HoWard Horan, Chairperson seconded the motion MINUTES BROADBAND TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION MONDAY, MARCH 22, 1996 - 5:30 P.M. CIVIC CENTER LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: Cordell Jeppsen, Betty McKray, Eric Rothenbuhler, Howie Vernon MEMBERS ABSENT: Steve Hoch STAFF PRESENT: Shaffer, Brau, Helling, Burnside, Hardy OTHERS PRESENT: Beth Fisher, Ren~ Paine, Steve Wurtzler, Derek Maurer, Barbara Black, Mary Jo Langhorne, Bill Blough SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION Paine reported PATV now offers a program guide providing descriptions of programs. Fisher reported the Library Board will soon be reviewing Channel 10's guidelines. Langhorne reported the ECC has made $500 available to each high school for video uses. Blough reported TCI plans to increase their rates by $3.83, or 17%, in June including an increase to $11.05 for Basic and an increase to $14.78 for Expanded Basic. Shaffer said the City has hired Rice, Williams Associates to review the proposed rate increase. The Commission agreed not to allocate the pass-through funds until after PATV's contract is finalized. APPROVAL OF MINUTES It was moved by McKray, seconded by Rothenbuhler, to approve the February 26 minutes. The motion passed unanimously, ANNOUNCEMENTS OF COMMISSIONERS None SHORT PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS None PATV REPORT Paine reported PATV is in the process of selecting programs for the staff-assisted series. PATV Program guides providing play times and descriptions of programs are now available. Three additional training workshops have been scheduled to meet an increased demand. A tour and special training session will be held for some Lucas Elementary students. Derek Maurer reported the PATV Board has finished an evaluation of the director. The evaluation process will be continued as a formal, ongoing process and should help improve management of PATV. The director received the confidence and support of the Board. 135a, Broadband Telecommunications Commission March 22, 1996 Page 2 LIBRARY REPORT Fisher reported the Library's new character generator is now in operation. Many compliments have been received on the improvement. The Library Board has begun a periodic review of Channel 1O's policies and guidelines. The library hopes the BTC will have guidelines on community programming soon so they might be incorporated into the library's policies. ECC REPORT Langhorne reported the ECC has made $500 available to both West High and City High video coordinators for productions and equipment. Students at Northwest Junior High won first prize in the Iowa Educational Student Media Festival for one of their productions. Enrollment in the single camera video production workshops offered at Northwest Junior High filled up quickly and will be offered again during the summer. LEGAL REPORT Burnside said she had nothing to report. TCI REPORT Bill Blough reported TC] plans to increase rates in June. A copy of a news release on the rate increase was distributed. Blough said the increase in the rates are comprised primarily of two elements: inflation and programming costs. Subscriber notices may go out as early as the April 26 billing cycle. The combined basic and extended basic proposed rate increase is $3,83 or about a 17% increase. Shaffer said Rice, Williams Associates has been retained by the City to analyze TCI's filing and should complete their review in 2-3 weeks. At that point the City will know the rate increases should be contested, Jeppsen asked Blough if and when cable modems might be available. Blough said TCI is testing cable modems in three cities this year. Cable modems and unlimited internet access should be available about the time the rebuild is finished. Blough said he expects TCI to offer telephone service in Iowa City at some point. The new Open Video Service (OVS) video delivery platform established in the 1996 Cable Act will likely a~rac~ another cable provider in iowa City within three years and will compete with TCI for subscribers. Based on current figures, the pass-through fee may generate about 8105,000-~110,000 per year. Blough said that based on past experiences, the rate increase will not likely result in a loss of many subscribers. Some downgrades may be expected. 6% of all subscribers get only basic, 50% get only basic expanded basic, and about 50% subscribe to a premium channel. CABLE TELEVISION ADMINISTRATOR REPORT Shaffer reported receiving 12 complaints: three about poor signal quality, three about billing problems, one about commercial rates, one about the late fee, one about installation problems, three about the pass-through fee (two of which had their concerns met upon explanation of the fee's use), and one requesting closed captioning on local access channels. Jeppsen asked about the cost and possibility of getting closed captioning. Bob Hardy sa~d it would be very Broadband Telecommunications Commission March 22, 1996 Page 3 expensive to add closed captioning. Taped programs would have to be sent out for City Council meetings two court reporters would have to be hired. PEG channels have limited obligations due to the cost. Until the new technologies are developed, closed captioning will be beyond the cable divisions budget, There is limited usefulness of sign language as there are several sign languages and few people can read sign. Shaffer noted the chart of expenditures and InfovisioNs Annual Report included in the packet. The chart of expenditure shows all funds received from TCI, including franchise fees and how they are spent. Infovision had about 35,000 calls accessing 800,000 screens in 1995. Caller ID may be added to Infovision when available, possibly May 2, Caller ID would enable better polling data to be gathered. Rothenbuhler said a mechanism is needed to protect the anonymity of respondents when caller ID is available, especially for those accessing information and not responding to a polk Shaffer said he has discussed including screens explaining to callers that information is being gathered. COMMUNITY PROGRAMMING The Commission agreed not to allocate the pass-through funds until after PATV's contract is finalized, ADJOURNMENT it was moved by Rothenbuhler, seconded by McKray, to adjourn. The motion passed unanimously. Adjournment at 6:28 p.m. Respectfully submitted, cab(etv~btc3-22 AGENDA ITEM 3A MINUTES IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES REGULAR FLEETING 2ND FLOOR ADMINISTRATIVE CONFERENCE R00M THURSDAY, M2%_RCE 28, 1996 - 5:00 PM Members Present: Margaret Cox, Stephen Greenleaf (left at 5:30, returned at 5:50 pm), Philip Hubbard, Mary McMurray, Mark Martin, Jesse Singerman, Anne Spencer, Jim Swaim (arrived 5:30 pm), Chuck Traw Mer~ers Absent: Staff Present: Barb Black, Maeve Clark, Susan Craig, Larry Eckho~, Martha Lubaroff Liz Nichols Otkers Present: Eleanor Di!kes, Assistant City Attorney; Brad 5angguth, Vice-President, Friends Foundation CALL TO ORDER: President Traw ca±led the meeting to order at 5:05 pm APPROVAL OF MINU~ES.: The minutes of the regular meeting of February 22, 1996 were approved unanimously after a motion made and seconded by Greenleaf/Hubbard UNFINISNED BUSINESS In the interest of efficiency, the discussion of property acquisition was deferred to later in the meeting. NEW BUSINESS The discussion on presentation of building project to City Council was deferred until after the discussion of property acquisition. STAFF REPORTS Volunteer Recoqnition A committee comprised of library staff menfoers have been meeting to plan the events. A group event is planned for April 26 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. There will be an award ceremony and reception. Four hundred and eleven volunteers will be invited. An ad will appear in the paper in appreciation and recognition of volunteers. Youth volunteers will have a party Thursday evening 4/25 which is the evening of the next Board meeting. Board members should try to attend these events. ICPL BOARD OF TRUSTEES MARCH 28, 1996 PAGE 2 AGENDA ITEM 3A Centennial Committee The Trustees received a handout announcing the Centennial committee comprised of current and former Trustees, Foundation and Friends members and ICPL staff. They will begin work soon on planning a year-long calendar of activities. World Wide Web use. Clark reported on the three means of access now being offered: Lynx, Netscape, and dial-in to Lynx. In just the first eleven days of introduction of Netscape, 86 usages were recorded. In just three months use has grown dramatically. A third dial-in line has recently been added. Classes held in February and March were very successful. Additional classes have been scheduled and are booked through May. The materials in the collection on the internet are in high demand. Development Office report The report was included in packet. Additionally Eckholt reported that the Investment Committee is looking at proposals from four local financial institutions who responded to an Request for Proposal and will make a recommendation to the Board by April, in terms of which institution should manage the endowment fund. Eckholt reported on his attendance at a very fine fundraising conference in Los Angeles; he focused on capitol projects and Board participation. Staff met' today for the first of many sessions on the planning cycle review. They are working on what will become a proposal for the Board to approve for FY98. B~dget Budget amendments are due at the City. Craig has been busy year. FYI Craig distributed additional articles regarding our Childrens' Room staff. In particular, Debb Green has been named honorary chair of "Week of the Young Child." PRESIDENT'S REPORT OLD BUS INESS Traw requested a motion to meet in closed session to discuss the acquisition of real estate. A motion was made and seconded by Greenleaf/Martin. A roll call vote was taken and all members signified approval by voting Aye. ICPL BOARD OF TRUSTEES MARCH 28, 1996 PAGE 3 AGENDA ITEM 3A The Board moved into Executive Session at 6:00 pm. The tape recorder was turned on. A motion was made and seconded to adjourn the closed session and return to open session. Martin/Cox. All in favor signified by voting Aye. Let the minutes reflect that during the closed session, the acquisition of real estate was discussed. NEW BUSINESS: Greenleaf introduced Eleanor Dilkes, new Assistant City Attorney. Dilkes will be working with the Library Board and Director regarding the aspects of acquiring property for the expansion of the library. Craig updated the Board on Council's plans to discuss the parcel of land known as "641A" and the issue of a sales tax at their meeting on April 8. Both issues could impact the library and its presentation at the Council meeting of April 22. Craig will attend the meeting on the 8th. Craig reported on her attendance at a meeting at the Chamber of Commerce which focused on sharing information from a variety of individuals and groups who are all planning to raise money for new projects in the Iowa City area. Craig asked the Board about the structure of the architect's presentation to City Council on April 22. The architect will prepare some sort of drawing or model and since each option has a cost attached to it she wanted the consensus of the Board. They were in favor of something attractive, but not expensive; like a black and white line drawing or a basic model. The possibility of a computer simulated model was discussed. Craig will transmit the Board's wishes to the architect. The meeting is an opportunity for the Board to present the building plan along with an explanation of the process used in arriving at the decision, and to present a drawing and or model. It was also suggested ~ha~ ~f possible an estimate of increased operating costs be prepared to respond to any questions. The issue of private fundraising will be presented to the Council. The Council will then be asked to approve the library referendum's appearance on the ballot in November. The Board then discussed the timin§and preparation over the next few months and how the Development Office's coordination of fundraising will fit in. Singerman, Greenleaf, Cox, McMurray, and Traw agreed to attend the meeting on the 22. ANNOUNCEMENT FROM MEMBERS Susan announced that ,Martin will be one of the presenters of a program co-sponsored with ICPL on Positive Leadership to be held at the Holiday Inn on the 10th. A luncheon program on Positive Impact will be held at ICP5 on the 17th. ICPL BOARD OF TRUSTEES MARCH 28, 1996 PAGE 4 AGENDA ITEM 3A COMMITTEE REPORTS Traw named a committee to evaluate the Director. Singerman is chair of a committee consisting of Swaim and Greenleaf. DISBURSEMENTS Visa expenses for February, 1996 were reviewed. After clarification of a fewquestions, Disbursements for February were approved after a motion by Singerman/Cox. All signified approval by saying Aye. SET AGENDA ORDER FOR APRIL ~;~ETING ADJOURNMENT: Meeting was adjourned at 7:00 pm after a motion by Spencer/Cox Minutes were taken and prepared by Martha Lubaroff .( o# MINUTES IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION SATURDAY, MARCH 30, 1996 - 10:00 A.M. CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS Subject to Approval MEMBERS PRESENT: Kay Irelan, Betty Kelley, Sue Licht, Doris Malkmus, Mike Pugh, Doug Russell, John Shaw, Ginalie Swaim STAFF PRESENT: Scott Kugler, James E~in OTHERS PRESENT: Mark Brookfield, Carl Gardy, Bruce Glasgow, Addan Rittenmeyer, Elizabeth Swenson CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Russell called the meeting to order at 10:05 a.m. Russell noted that an item had been added to the agenda. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: There was none. PUBLIC HEARING ON THE NOMINATION OF 37 PROPERTIES FOR DESIGNATION AS IOWA CITY HISTORIC LANDMARKS: Russell explained that the public hearing had been scheduled in order to provide information and receive public comments on the histodc landmark designations. He bdefiy explained the designation process. He noted that the Histodc Preservation Ordinance had been revised in 1995 to provide landmarks with the same protection as buildings within histodc districts. He said that the Commission had selected thirty-seven buildings as the first sedes of Iowa City historic landmarks based on their inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. He noted that the owners of these propedies had been notified on Februar~ 2, 1996. He then explained that if the Commission voted at the meeting to approve the landr,~arks, the nominations would go to the State Historical Society for comment. They would then go to the Planning and Zoning Commission, and from there to the City Council. Russell said that the property owners of designated landmarks would be authorized to display a plaque on the property. Licht gave a bdef overview of the properties, and displayed slides of each. Public discussion: Bruce Glasgow, 834 N. Johnson St., introduced h~mself as the owner of several histodc properties, ~ncluding the Boemer-Fry Building at 332 E. Washington Street. He asked that the Boerner-Fry Budding not be included. Glasgow said that the building had been placed on the National Register of Historic Buildings to prevent demolition by the City, and said that it seemed ridiculous to place the building back under the City's junsdiction by participation in the landmark program. He indicated that he had drafted a letter explaining his views and passed it on to the Commission. Adrian Rittenmever, 1402 East Davenport St., said he was the great~jrandson of F.X. R~ttenmeyer. He questioned some of the information being used. He said that until 1930, the Rittenmeyer family had lived at 630 East Church Street. He noted that the address of the budding called the F.X Rittenmeyer House was located at 630 East Fairchild Street. Histodc Prosedation Commission March 30,1996 Page 2 Rittenmeyer said he had been unable to find any connection between that address and his great-grandfather's name. He also said that contrary to the information given in the presenta- tion, F.X. Rittenmeyer had been a wood dealer, but had never owned a lumberyard. He conceded it was possible F.X. Rittenmeyer had constructed the house. He asked that the family name be withheld from connection with the house, as there was no evidence of a link. He said that a Burger family had been listed as living at that address in both the 1891 and 1909 City directories. Kugler noted that the building had been listed on the National Register due to its architectural significance, and not due to its connection with any person. Rittenmeyer agreed that the building was architecturally significant. Russell suggested calling the building the Burger House or some genedc name until the issue was clarified. Kugler was directed to make the changes in the report and do some research on the early residents of 630 E. Fairchild Street. Mark Brookfield, 219 South Gilbert, Carl Gardv, 1415 East Davenport, and Elizabeth Swenson, 829 Kirkwood, indicated their support for the landmarks as shown. Public discussion closed, Russell noted a letter from Elizabeth Swenson that 829 Kirkwood was pending for listing on the National Register, and that the correct name of the property should be the Clark House. Licht explained that listing on the National Register did not provide any protection against demolition, whereas a listing as an Iowa City histodc landmark would. Russell noted that listing as a local landmark did not require the owner's consent. He said it was possible that the Planning and Zoning Commission or the City Council could remove the property of an owner who did not wish to be listed, but said that it was not a necessary action. Swaim agreed that a National Register listing carded no guarantees of protection. Russell said that ~isting as a local landmark would prevent someone from demolishing a listed home without the consent of the Commis- sion. Rittenmeyer asked if the construction date of 630 E. Fairchild had been derived from the architectural style. Kugler said the information the Commission used was from the National Regist(~r nomination form for the property, and that the building had been listed due to its architectural significance. Kelly asked if the name should be the same as that on the National Register. Russell said the Commission could refer to the house as the Burger House. Shaw noted that the first mention of the Burger family at that address was in 1891, sixteen years after its construction. Russell then suggested that the building be called the 630 E. Fairchild House. The Commission agreed. Pugh asked who had nominated the house, and if it was only due to architectural considerations. Kugler said he could get that information from the State Historical Society. Russell asked if the Eckel House had been renamed. Licht said the first occupant was named Augustus Clarke. Kugler noted that the revised list included this change. MOTION: Kelley moved to nominate the listed properties as Iowa City Historic Land- marks, with #24 renamed the 630 East Fairchild House unless a more accurate historic name is found. Swaim seconded, The motion was carried by a vote of 8-0. Russell asked Kugler to send the appropriate papers to the State Historical Society, the Planning and Zoning Commission, and the City Council. Historic Preservation Commission March 30, 1996 Page 3 CONSIDERATION OF A LETTER TO ROSE MIDDLETON IN SUPPORT OF WATERLOO'S HISTORIC PRESERVATION ORDINANCE: Kugler said that a resident of a historic district in Waterloo had wanted to install aluminum siding, which is prohibited under Watedoo's Historic Preservation Ordinance. He said when Waterioo's Historic Preservation Commission rejected the resident's request, the resident had come to City staff and asked about procedures in Iowa City. Kugler said he gave the resident a copy of our ordinance and information about the dangers of synthetic siding. The resident then appealed the Waterloo Histodc Preservation Commission's decision to their City Council, using Iowa City's ordinance as ammunition. The Waterloo Commission therefore had request- ed clarification of the City's standpoint on synthetic siding. Kugler said he had drawn up a letter for the Commission's approval, explaining that the Commission discourages siding but it's not written into our ordinance. Kelley noted that she had spoken with Rose Middleton and asked why siding was not prevent- ed in Iowa City. Kelley said she replied that it is tied to the need for a building permit, and requiring a permit for siding would be controversial. Russell said there was the question ~f whether the Commission should become involved, along with the question of whether the letter was aldght. Shaw noted that the Waterloo resident had already involved the Commission by claiming that the Commission felt siding was okay on historic buildings, which is an inaccurate statement. Russell agreed that the resident was misrepresenting the Commission's position. Pugh asked what the reference to "misleading information" in the letter referred to. Kugler said some siding companies claimed that their products were maintenance free, without mentioning the maintenance costs needed for siding after several years. Pugh suggested that that reference be deleted. MOTION: Llcht moved to approve the letter. Pugh seconded. The motion was carried bv a vote of 8-0. Russell asked what date was set for the April meeting. Kugler said it had been changed from the 9th to the 1 lth. Russell then asked if Kugler had received a copy of Glasgow's letter. Shaw volunteered his copy. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 10:55 a.m. MINUTES IOWA CITY PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 1996 CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS Subject tO MEMBERS PRESENT: Ann Bovbjerg, Dick Gibson, Jane Jakobsen, George Starr, Lea Supple MEMBERS ABSENT: Benjamin Chair, Tom Scott STAFF PRESENT: Anne Burnside, Scott Kugler, James Erwin RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: Recommended approval, by a vote of 5-0, of the Summary Report for REZ96-0004, Village Green, Part XIV, a one-lot, eight unit planned residential development located on the north side of Village Road. Recommended approval, by a vote of 4-1 with Jakobsen voting in the negative, of SUB96- 0008, a preliminary and final plat of River Hilt Addition, a 10.3 acre, two lot residential subdivi- sion located at 4608 Oak Crest Hill Road. CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 7:35 p.m. ANNOUNCEMENT OF VACANCIES ON CITY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS Starr said that he did not have a listing with him, but that one could be found in the lobby. He said this will become a regular agenda item. REZONING/DEVELOPMENT ITEMS: REZ96-0009/SUB96-0007. Public discussion of an application submitted by Southgate Development Company, Inc., to rezone a 1.8 acre tract from RS-8, Medium Density Single-Family Residential, to OSA-8, Sensitive Areas Oreday, and approval of a prelimi- nary Sensitive Areas Development Plan and preliminary plat for the resubdivision of Lots 3 and 4 of the Henry F. Bird Addition, a seven lot residential subdivision located on the south side of Benton Street. (45-day limitation pedod: April 29, 1996) Kugler sa~d that a previous application had been deferred indefinitely in 1993 due to design and sight distance concems. He said the new design called for seven duplex lots on a private street. Kugler noted the Sensitive Areas Ordinance applied to the develop- ment, due to cr~bcal slopes on the east edge of Lots 5 and 6. Kugler noted that the slopes on these lots will not be encroached upon by the development. He said a small area of critical slopes in the middle of Lot 6 would likely be graded. Due to the possible future improvement of Benton Street, the nght of way would be expanded. A white pine buffer is being suggested to ameliorate a reduction in the 40 foot setback requirement along Benton Street. Kugler noted that the private street was only 26 feet wide. He said staff supports the narrower street width, as the street would only serve 14 households. He then noted that Public Works had asked that it be a public street, due to concerns over maintenance and snow removal. He said the issue would be discussed at the next Planning and Zoning Commission April 4, 1996 Page 2 staff meeting. He said Public Works recommends that grading be in place for a side- walk, as a later construction easement would harm the proposed white pines. Kugler said staff also recommended that fees be accepted in lieu of open space. He said that the Parks and Recreation Commission would review the item at their next meeting. He said staff recommended deferral until deficiencies were resolved, and, if resolved, approval subject to approval of a grading plan by Public Works. Bovbjerg asked how the sidewalk along the pdvate street would be constructed, and who would have responsibility for cleadng it. Kugler said there would be a five foot open space between the road and the sidewalk, and that the owners would be responsible for cleadng the sidewalk. Bovbjerg asked if the road could handle the weight of a city snowplow. Kugler said that it could, as it would be constructed of 7" concrete. Starr asked if the narrower street would cause any problems. Kugler said none were fore- seen, given the number of units involved. Public discussion, William Buss, 747 West Benton Street, introduced himself as a neighbor. He said that the public was at a large disadvantage at these meetings, as the notification process gave little time to assemble a presentation or assimilate the facts in a case. He there- fore urged the Commission not to make their decision until all the neighbors had spoken. He said that he and two other residents he had spoken to did not approve of the proposed development due to traffic considerations. He said the development was against the public interest and expressed disbelief that it had been proposed on top of the Benton Street hill, where traffic conditions were already unsafe. Gibson asked if Buss could propose an alternative development plan. Buss said that he would not mind single-family development. He said that development should not occur independently of a consideration of impact. He said that he had no objection to multi-family housing, but felt that there should be a different traffic outlet. Ruth Baker, 515 West Benton Street, also urged the Commission to keep an open mind. She asked if Benton Street would be widened. Kugler said that it may be widened in the future, but that hasn't been determined. He said plans for widening the street had not yet been initiated. Baker said she had spoken with the traffic engineer, who said the development met safety standards for normal conditions. She said she had been hit once on Benton street while trying to enter her driveway. She expressed disbelief that the developers were increasing traffic in that area. She said the development would only worsen an already intolerable situation. She agreed that the development should have a different traffic outlet. Bovbjerg asked Kugler ~f there had been a recent traffic count. Kugler said he was unsure. He noted that the City Transportation Planner had said the ~ncrease in traffic would be negligible given the number of units involved and the existrag traffic volume. He noted that any development increased the risk of an accident regardless of s~te constraints, and reaffirmed that the traffic engmeer had found the risk acceptable by his assessment. Bovbjerg then asked if the redesign of Benton Street would ~nclude left turning lanes. Kugler sa~d he was not sure, because it has not yet been designed. Gibson observed that w~thout the Sensitive Areas Ordinance, the tract could have been developed as an RS-8 zone. Kugler said that it may have still required an OPDH. Gibson also obsen/ed that there was nothing very new about the proposed develop- Planning and Zoning Commission April 4, 1996 Page 3 ment. He noted that a proposal for this property had been in the public record for several years. Jo Butterfield Rose, 804 Hudson, said she had lived in the area for two years. She said at least twice a day, she hears cars braking to avoid an accident on Benton Street. She had seen cars run onto her lawn twice to avoid a collision, and had almost been in an accident twice. She noted that she lived at the bottom of the Benton Street hill and often found it hard to see because of the position of the sun. She urged that safety be the first consideration. Esther Otto, 733 West Benton Street, asked if them was grading on the east side of the property. Kugler said there would be grading throughout the development. He noted there were critical slopes on the east side. Otto said she thought there was a critical slope on the west edge of the property. Kugler said he could check, but that staff was going by the information provided by the applicant. Otto then noted that she had checked the bank on three properties and had counted five indentations from care stdking the bank. Richard Rhodes, 2014 Rochester Avenue, asked Kugler what speed was being used for sight distance calculations. Kugler said traffic engineers use the 85th percentlie speed in their assessment, taking into account the actual speed of the vehicles. Rhodes asserted that the present surface was dangerous, especially for bicyclists. He said that traffic tended to move in excess of the speed limit. Rhodes urged caution in accepting the traffic engineer's estimates. He also urged that the alternate access route east on Miller be used. Rhodes then said that escrow funds should not be accepted in lieu of immediate sidewalk construction. He noted that the presence of even a short stretch of sidewalk would spur the extension of the sidewalk network. Rose noted that the traffic engineer's report was being discussed a great deal. She said the road would be alright under normal conditions, but she noted the traffic engineer had not been asked to look at capacity issues. Public discussion closed, MOTION: Bovbjerg moved to defer consideration of REZ96-O00915UB96-0007 to the April '18, '1996, Planning and Zoning Commission meeting. Gibson seconded. The motion carried bv a vote of 5-0. REZ96-0004/SUB96-0002. Public discussion of the Planning and Zoning Commission's Summary Report'on an application submitted by Village Partners to rezone a 3 09 acre tract from RS-5, Low Density Single-Family Residential, to OPDH-5, Planned Develop- ment Housing Overlay, and approval of a preliminary OPDH plan and plat for Village Green. Part XIV, a one-lot. eight unit residential development located on the north side of Village Road. Kugler said the Summary Report noted the changes to zoning requirements and subdivision standards for the proposed planned development. Planning and Zoning Commission Apdl 4, 1996 Page 4 MOTION: Gibson moved to approve the Summary Report for REZ96-0004, Village Green, Part XIV, a one-lot, eight unit planned residential development located on the north side of Village Road. Jakobsen seconded. The motion carried by a vote of 5-0, REZONING ITEMS: REZ96-0007. Public discussion of an application submitted by Steve Moss for the Iowa City Tennis and Fitness Center for a rezoning of a 7.1 acre tract from CH-1, Highway Commercial, to OSA/CH-1, Sensitive Areas Overlay/Highway Commercial, and for approval of a preliminary Sensitive Areas Development Plan for property located at 2400 N. Dodge Street. (45-day limitation pedod: Apnl 29, 1996) Kugler said staff recommended deferral pending the correction of technical difficulties. Bovbjerg asked if this would count as the first public meeting, as the application was merely being deferred. Kugler said that it might, and noted a waiver would be needed of the limitation pedod from the appl!cant if two more meetings were desired. MOTION: Jakobsen moved to defer REZ96-0007 indefinitely until the technical difficulties were resolved. Gibson seconded. The motion carried on a vote of $-0, REZ96-0008 Public discussion of an application for a rezoning of a 1.79 acre tract from CC-2, Community Commercial, to OSNCC-2, Sensitive Areas Overlay/Community Com- mercial, and for approval of a preliminary Sensitive Areas Development Plan for the AB Building located at the intersection of Sturgis Comer Drive and Highway 6. (45-day limitation pedod: April 29, 1996) Kugler said the Sensitive Areas Overlay rezoning was required due to the presence of a stream corridor and protected slopes on the site. He said a buffer reduction would be required to allow construction within the stream corridor and protected slopes buffers. He said staff needed to conduct additional analysis to determine if the reduction was appropriate. He emphasized that no development would take place on the protected slopes themselves, but that a reduction of this buffer would be needed. He said staff recommended a deferral in order to assess the buffer reduction requests. and to allow time for the apphcant to a(~dress defic~encres in tl3e plan. Jakobsen noted that the River Corridor Trail was slated to go through the development. She asked if provisions for grading had been made. Kugler said a Grading Plan had been submitted and was being reviewed by Public Works. He said the property owner and his tax attorney are working with the City on designating an easement for the trail. He sa~d information would be available at the next Planning and Zoning Commmsion meeting. He sa{d staff hopes to have that issue resolved by that time. Bovbjerg d~scussed possible alternatives to reduction of the protected slopes buffer. She asked if a reduction of the building scale was possible. Kugler said the budding would have to be reduced in size or reconfigured on the site to remove it from the protected slopes buffer. He noted that the building could be reodented on the lot. Bovbjerg asked if that would reduce their parking. Kugler said that it might, depending on the design. Bovbjerg asked when more information would be available. Kugler said the analysis should be complete by the next meehng Planning and Zoning Commission Apdl 4. 1996 Page 5 Public discussion, Richard Rhodes said as a member of the Sensitive Areas Committee he personally felt a parking reduction was consistent with the Sensitive Areas Ordinance. He expressed his opinion that the existing parking requirements were generous. He said he strongly supported the trail and urged the City to get an easement as soon as possible. Public discussion closed. MOTION: Supple moved to defer consideration of REZ96-0008 to the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting of April '18, 1996. Bovbjerg seconded. Discussion. Gibson expressed his hope that the trail issue would be resolved satisfactorily before the application was approved. The motion carried on a vote of 5-0. DEVELOPMENT ITEMS: SUB96-0006. Public discussion of an application submitted by Thomas Wegman for preliminary plat approval of Prairie View Estates, Part Four, a 22-1ot, 30.86 acre residen- tial subdivision located east of Praide du Chien Road and north of Interstate 80. (45-day limitation pedod: Apdl 29, 1996) Kugler said the odginal application had been denied in 1991 due to the lack of second- ary access. He noted that Prairie du Chien Road was due for improvement next spdng, which would enable the construction of secondary access in the near future. He said this access would be provided by the extension of Sydl Street. He said that staff sup- ported the proposed uniform street standards in the area. Kugler noted when Part 3 was originally proposed, staff had recommended denial because they thought any further development should require secondary access, which could be provided with the improvement of Praide du Chien Road and Syril Street. Kugler said that preliminary drainage plans are stiii under review by Public Works, and the development had not yet received a fire rating or approval from the Solon Fire Department. He said staff therefore recommended deferral. He said that the water and septic systems had not yet been approved. Kugler said staff recommended deferral pending resolution of deficiencies on the plat, and that upon resolution of the deficiencies, approval subject to three conditions: 1) the improvement of Prairie du Chien Road and Synl Street to prewde secondary access prior to final plat approval; 2) preliminary approval of the well and septic systems by the County Health Department prior to Councd consideration; and 3) approval of a Grading Plan by Public Works prior to Council consideration. In response to a question from Jakobsen, Kugler said the second and third conditions would have to be addressed before Councd consideration, but the first was needed for approval of the final plat. Starr said it was his understanding that the developer had requested deferral. Supple asked if Sydl Street would have to pass over someone else's property to reach Prairie du Chien Road after it has been realigned. Kugler said yes. Planning and Zoning Commission April 4, 1996 Page 6 Public discussion. Teri Downes, 2354 Kent Count, introduced herself as President of the Praide View Estates Homeowners' Association. She noted that Kyle was currently the only access. She said that if Synl connected with Prairie du Chien, it could be in the middle of a hie She asserted that Synl would not draw away any traffic, as it was inconvenient. She opposed the development, saying it would increase density and endanger children in the neighborhood. Gibson asked if she could suggest an alternative. Dowries said she had none. Gibson asked if she would rather have no secondary access. Dowries said she would like seconda~ access, but could not think of an appropriate location. She said the proposed access plan might help Pant 3, but would do nothing for the rest of the subdivision. Gibson asked if she therefore opposed any development. Downes said she could not think of a viable place for secondary access. Kugler explained that the secondary access was required mainly as an alternative route for emergency vehicles. Kugler said that culverted drainageways and vegetation along existing streets would prevent vehicles from partially leaving the roadway to bypass an obstruction in the road. He noted that the design of Sydl Street was decided as part of an eadier plat. Gibson asked what the trip count was for homes in the area. Kugler said the average is seven tdps per household per day. He noted that design standards called for collector streets to carry 1000 vehicles per day, and single access streets should not carry more than 500. City design standards called for 2500 vehicles a day on collector streets, and 1250 on single access collectors. Bovbjerg asked if Kugler meant seven tdps out and seven back. He replied that the trip number referred to the total number of passes. Bovbjerg expressed her concern at the lack of sidewalks. Richard Rhodes noted that City grading and stormwater requirements had been im- posed, but not the Sensitive Areas Ordinance. He noted that the steep slopes and a drainage channel would require a Sensitive Areas Development Plan in the city, and asked why such a plan was not required in this case. Kugler said the Sensitive Areas Ordinance was not incorporated into the subdivision regulations as the grading and storm water management ordinances are, and thus does not apply outside the city limits. Kugler noted that most ravines would be protected to some degree. Rhodes noted that an aerial photograph seemed to show that existing trees had been clearcut o~=n~itiVc= and said that the deveiopmeni n ynt uu a9'ainst u~u ~l~.,t o~ Lh~ Areas Ordi- nance. Starr said the Sensitive Areas Committee might be reconvening, and noted they might look at applying the ordinance in the Fdnge Area. Public discussion closed. MOTION: Bovbjerg moved to defer SUB96-0006 to the April 18 meeting, Jakobsen seconded. The motion carried by a vote of 5-0. 2 SUB96-0008. Public discussion of an application submitted by Dwight and Vicki Tardy for preliminary and final plat approval of River Hill Addition. a 10.3 acre, three lot residential subdiws~on located at 4608 Oak Crest Hill Road SE. (45-day limitation period: April 29, 1996) Kugler sa~d that Lot 1 had an existing home, and Lot 2 was reserved for a home. He said staff felt the apphcant should consult with an engineer on development on the steep slopes on Lot 2, but noted the Sensitive Areas Ordinance did not apply to county Planning and Zoning Commission Apdl 4, 1996 Page 7 subdiwsions. He said stormwater requirements had been waived. Kugler said staff recommended approval pending the approval of a Grading Plan. Jakobsen asked why the Grading Plan was under discussion. Kugler sa~d the subdivi- sion would create a building lot which contained steep slopes. Jakobsen asked if the Commission had any power in this case. Kugler said the approval of a Grading Plan was required. He noted review of Grading Plan could at least indicate problems to the developer. Public discussion. Dwiqht Tardy, 2911 Radcliffe Avenue, said he was unsure why the slopes were so important to the grading procedure. He said the requirements seemed like an arbitrary imposition, and expressed his belief that the City and the County seemed to be in conflict. He noted that he had been forced to submit several plats to both entities. Tardy said he was concerned that the .requirement might mean new hurdles ten years from now, should he wish to build again. Kugler explained that certain information is required on plats in order to assure that there would be good land records for the future. Tardy asked what the intent of the Grading Ordinance was. Kugler said that among other things, the Ordinance requires grading approval.when slopes over 25% are present. He noted that the Commission and Council could waive the requirement. Starr asked what the intent of the Grading Plan is if it is unenforceable. Kugler said the City did have power to enforce the ordinance, as it had approval power over plats within 2 miles of the corporate limits. He indicated he was unsure of the C~ty's enforcement policy on County subdivisions, however. Gibson asked if the building would require a City or County building permit. Kugler said a County permit was required. Bovbjerg said she believed the development would not seriously harm water quality or drainage. Tardy said houses in Califomia had been built on much steeper slopes. He said the ordinance seemed overly cautious. Starr said he was concerned about setting a precedent. He said he would not like the grading issue to impede cooperation with the County on the Fnnge Area Agreement. Jakobsen asked where grading would be done. Kugler said grading would be done along the access easement on the north edge of the property. He noted that Outlot A was lower ground. Gibson said bureaucracy could be a good thing, but said that hollow requirements were only a waste of time and money. Richard Rhodes noted that the first item outside the city limits which had been dis- cussed in light of the Sensitive Areas Ordinance had consisted of 20 or 30 lots, and was adjacent to the c~ty. He said this development was limited and fairly far from the city Public discussion closed. MOTION: Bovbjerg moved to approve SUB96-0008, a preliminary and final plat of River Hill Addition, a 10.3 acre, two lot residential subdivision located at4608 Oak Crest Hill Road SE, subject to the approval of a Grading Plan prior to Council consideration. Gibson seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 4-1, with Jakob- sen votinq in the ne.qative. Jakobsen ~ndicated she had voted no due to the requirement of a Grading Plan. Planning and Zoning Commission April 4, 1996 Page 8 CONSIDERATION OF THE MARCH 21, 1996 PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION MIN- UTES: MOTION: Bovbjerg moved to approve the March 21, 1996, Commission minutes. Jakobsen seconded. The motion carried by a vote of 5-0. Bovbjerg commended Erwin for his work on the minutes for the March 21 meeting. PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION INFORMATION: Starr noted that he had recaJved a letter from Jim Throgmor~on, saying that the author of Rural By Design would be at a round table discussion on April 23. Bovbjerg indicated her interest in attending. OTHER BUSINESS: There was none. ADJOURNMENT: MOTION: Supple moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:15 p.m. Gibson seconded. The motion was carried by a vote of 5-0. Lea Supple, Secretary Minutes submitted by James Erwin. IOWA CITY PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION MEETING THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 1995 - 7:30 P.M. CMC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 15. 17. 18. 19. MINUTES DESIGN REVIEW COMMI']-]'EE MEETING MONDAY, APRIL 15, 1996- 4:00 P.M. CIVIC CENTER LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: Nancy Footnet, Laura Hawks, Kar71 Larson, Randy Rohovit, Marty Haynes, Billy Nowysz MEMBERS ABSENT: Gary Nagle, Phillip Reisetter, Clara Swan STAFF PRESENT: David Schoon, James Erwin OTHERS PRESENT: Tara Cronbaugh RECOMMENDATIONS Recommended, by a 6-0 vote, approval of the sidewalk cafe design for 211 1/2 E. Washington Street (Java House). CALL TO ORDER AND INTRODUCTIONS Chair Marty Haynes called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m. CONSIDERATION OF A SIDEWALK CAFE AT 211 ½ EAST WASHINGTON STREET (JAVA HOUSE) Nancy Foother noted that the design seemed largely unchanged from last year. Schoon said there had been suggestions that sidewall( cafes should indicate their location in a manner useful to sight-impaired individuals. Tara Cronbaugh said planters would be used. She noted that planters used in this fashion would be subject to abuse, and so mulch would be used instead of plants. She said a nylon rope barrier had been considered but was determined to be dangerous. Cronbaugh said a wrought-iron hamer could be used in the future. Bill Nowysz suggested the possible use of a screen lattice. FOother suggested that potted plants could be used. Cronbaugh remarked that the possibility of theft or vandalism had ruled that out Haynes asked if e~ght feet was the mandatory walkway width. Cronbaugh said it was. Rohovit asked if everything else had been approved for the application. Schoon said it was in the process of being approved. Footner expressed her approval of the color scheme. Nowysz and Hawks said the planters were a good solution. Schoon asked what kind of mulch would be used in the planters. Cmnbaugh said regular garden mulch would be used. Larson asked if any plants would be used Cronbaugh said none would be used. MOTION: Hawks moved to recommend to the City Council approval of the sidewalk care design for 2'11 '/z East Washington Street (Java House), Rohovit seconded. The motion carried by a vote of 6.0. Schoon noted that the design was the same except for the planters. He noted that many s~dewalk cafe applications were coming up for renewal that were similarly unchanged, and said MINUTES DESIGN REVIEW COMMI'FrEE APRIL 15, 1996 PAGE 2 staff would only bring the applications to the Committee for review if the Committee wanted them to be reviewed. The consensus of the Committee was only to review renewal applications for sidewalk cafes that differ significantly from the previous year. Footner asked if the Uncommon Grounds sign would be changed soon. Schoon said it was staying up. Hawks noted that the sign now contained a functioning thermometer. UPDATE REGARDING THE PROPOSED DESIGN REVIEW OVERLAY (ODR) ZONE ORDINANCE Hayne~ said that Tom Gelman and John Beckord of the Chamber of Commerce, a representative from the Nomebuilder's Association, and Anna Buss had spoken against the proposed Ordinance at the City Council discussion. He said it seemed that the Council is split 3-3 on the ordinance with one councilor undecided. Rohovit asked about Kubby's motion to allow preliminary review. Schoon said the language of Kubby's proposed amendment was meant to cladfy the language of the ordinance to indicate that the design review process could occur way before the building permit process or at the same time as the building permit. Haynes said Gelman raised the concern about the delay the proposed ordinance would create in development. Haynes said an early review would allow development with minimal loss of time. Schoon said the Downtown Association at its Board meeting had also talked about the loss of time, and said the process was too lengthy to justify the prevention of one or two badly designed projects. Footner remarked that a badly designed building could disrupt an entire block. Hawks said that one councilor feared the proposed ordinance could make Iowa City homogenous, like Galena, Illinois. Haynes said that the Committee had always supported diversity in design, and that architectural diversity was one of the City's strengths. Nowysz noted there had been a charge of elitism. He said the Committee was providing free expertise. Haynes said that a threshold of good design was needed. Hawks brought up the suggestion of education as an alternative. Larson said those who did want education already came to the Committee. Footner said an argument should be made about the apparent trend towards the "mallification" of Iowa City. Nowysz said that if a building was being constructed downtown, developers should already have a designer on staff. Larson said a list of cities with design review ordinances and how they do it could be helpful. Haynes noted that education would be important, in order to make people aware of the design process review. Footnet noted that most of the opposition seemed to come from larger corporations who wanted to insert their s~gnature designs on their property without regard for the context of the community. Schoon noted that it has been suggested that design review be a mandatory participation process, but voluntary compliance. He said this would not resolve the time issue. Larson noted large corporations would simply ignore the Committee's recommendabons Larson MINUTES DESIGN REVIEW COMMI'I-I'EE APRIL 15, 1996 PAGE 3 asked if the City Council could amend the ordinance ~n that fashion without consulting the Committee. Schoon said the Council would probably send the proposed ordinance back. Rohovit asked if the Committee would have an opportunity to change the ordinance if an amendment was needed to secure a majodty for approval. Schoon said any substantive change would require the Council to go through the public headng process. Haynes expressed his opinion that the proposed ordinance had come a long way since the Committee first approached the Planning and Zoning Commission. Schoon stated that he would arrange having Committee members present at the Monday, April 22, and Tuesday, Apd123, Council meetings. CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES OF THE MARCH 18, 1996 MEETING MOTION: Hawks moved to approve the minutes of the March '18, '1996 meeting. Rohovlt seconded. The motion was carried by a vote of 6-0. PUBLIC DISCUSSION There was none. COMMI'FI'EE DISCUSSION Footnet asked how the development was progressing on the Hy-Vee project at First Avenue and Muscatine Street. Schoon replied he was unsure and would follow-up on it. Hawks said that collecting reactions from people who had gone through the design review process might be helpful in the discussion with City Council members. Schoon said he would look into the matter. Larson noted that Jay Ohler had spoken favorably of design review at the Planning and Zoning Commission headrig. Hawks said that in her research on other design review committees, she had found that St. Louis had a Hedtage Committee which reviewed historical districts and all demolitions in St Louis. She said the Hedtage Committee also reviewed all commercial projects within 300 feet of a historical landmark or district. Haynes asked if the St. Louis Heritage Committee was a volunteer committee. Hawks said she was unsure. Foother asked if the Press Citizen had carried any articles on the Design Awards. Schoon said he did not think they had. Hawks and Schoon listed the awards. ADJOURNMENT MOTION: Hawks moved to adjourn the meeting at 5:.10 p.m, The motion was carried by a vote of 6-0. RULES COMMITTEE MEETING APRIL 17, 1996 RULES COMMITTEE: COMMITTEE MEMBERS STAFF MEMBERS Meeting of April 17, 1996, PRESENT: Novick, Norton PRESENT: Karr, Shank 9:00 a.m. Human Rights Commission Bylaws: The Rules Committee unanimously recommends addition/change to the By-laws presented. approval of the