HomeMy WebLinkAbout1996-10-28 Info PacketINFORMATION PACKET
October 25, 1996
IP1
Memorandum from City Manager: Cottonwood Right-of-Way
IP2 Memorandum from City Manager: Assessment Projects
IP3 Memorandum from City Engineer to City Manager: Cement Shortage
IP4
IP$
IP6
IP7
Memorandum from Public Works Director to City Manager:
Transition Summary
Memorandum from Deputy City Clerk: Meeting Schedule
Letter from Mayor to Minnette
Neuhauser, and Robert Dvorsky:
Way
Letter from Finance Director to University Heights
Heights-Iowa City Agreement for Transit Service
Traffic Engineering~,~
Doderer, Dick Myers, Mary Mascher, Mary~:~
1996 Telecommunications Act - Public Right-of-
City Attorney: University~
IP8 Letter from Public Works Director to Dan Tiedt: Highland Avenue Storm Sewer
IP9
Memorandum from CenterSpace Committee: Combining CenterSpace Conference ~-~.
and Cultural Center with Additional Iowa City Public Library Space
IP10
Agenda for the Johnson County Board of Supervisors October 24,
agenda
1996, formalC~
IPll Cedar Rapids Gazette Article: Strategy Panel Lists Pros, Cons of Iowa City~-~o~_
Downtown (Novick)
IP12 Mason City Globe Article: Old Gold Hymn (Karr) [Council packer's only]
Johnson County Unit of Church Women United invitation
IP13
Agenda for the 10/29 Informal meeting of the Board of Supervisors. '~/N/~3
Copy of Press Release regarding the preliminary figures for the Special Census.?~o~L~_
Copy of Area Chamber Library Task Force Proposal,
Info from Council Member Norton regarding Use of 64-1A & present Library.
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM
Date:
To:
From:
Re:
October 24, 1996
City Council
City Manager
Cottonwood Right-of-Way
Some time ago, Karin Franklin directed a letter to the two property owners on Cottonwood about
the possibility of purchase of the right-of-way. To date she has not received any response. They
continue to use the right-of-way for access to their properties. It would seem that if we are
interested in disposing of the property, the Council will have to move toward a formal vacation
of the property and, thereby, the adjacent property owners would be offered a chance to
purchase.
cc: Karin Franklin
Jw/co,'taw~d.sa
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM
Date:
To',
From:
Re:
October 25, 1996
Steve Atkins, City Manager
Rick Fosse, City Engineer ~-~F:
Assessment Projects
The assessment process is a lengthy and detailed mechanism defined by the Code of Iowa.
Highlights include the ability to assess paving improvements to property owners within 300 feet
of the improvement and a commitment of 6 of 7 Council members is required for an
assessment project to proceed. An exception is that if owners representing 75% of the value of
the properties to be assessed object to the project, a unanimous vote of the Council is required.
For this reason it has been recent City policy to assure the commitment of property owners
before beginning the assessment process. This can be done by entering into a written
agreement, such as was done for the Maiden Lane Project, or waiting for a petition signed by
the property owners requesting the assessment project, such as was done with alley
improvements south of Bowery Street. Before this policy was implemented, many assessment
projects were defeated before construction, but after significant investment in engineering plans
and outside legal council.
cc: Chuck Schmadeke
Linda Woito
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM
Date:
To:
From:
Re:
October 24, 1996
Steve Atkins, City Manager
Rick Fosse, City Engineer J
Cement Shodage
There is a cement shodage affecting most concrete suppliers in the mid-west. Cement is the
powdered component that is mixed with sand, gravel and water to form concrate. This
shortage has contributed to delays on the Melrose West, Melrose Bddge and First Avenue
Projects. It is hoped that the recent rains will allow cement suppliers to catch-up on production.
Melrose West and First Avenue are still scheduled to be open to traffic before winter.
cc: Chuck Schmadeke
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM
Date:
To:
From:
Re:
October 25, 1996
Steve Atkins, City Manager
Chuck Schmadeke, Director of Public Works
Traffic Enginesring Transition Summary
On October 7, 1996, the functions of the Traffic Engineering Division were dispersed to the
Department of Planning and Community Development, Streets Division, Engineering Division
and Transit. A simplified outline of the division of duties is outlined below.
Department of Planning and Community Development:
Traffic studies, parking studies, determine installation of traffic control devices,
maintain accident statistics and respond to inquiries from the public.
Streets Division:
Installation and maintenance of traffic control devices and informational signs.
Engineering Division:
Design and construction administration of certain traffic control devices.
Transit:
Sign making.
cc: Rick Fosse
Jeff Davidson
Joe Fowler
Bud Stockman
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM
DATE:
October 25, 1996
TO:
FROM:
RE:
Mayor and City Council
Sue Walsh, Deputy City Clerk
Meeting Schedule
A reminder that the following meeting schedule is for the week of October 28th:
Monday, October 28th, Special Formal- 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday, October 30th, Joint meeting with Library Bd. - 5:00 p.m.
Both Council meetings will be held in the Council Chambers.
October 21, 1996
CITY OF I0 W,4 CIT¥
The Honorable Minnette Doderer
2008 Dunlap Court
Iowa City, IA 52245
Dear Ms. Doderer:
Earlier this year the federal government passed the 1996 Telecommunications Act. This Act
will have far-reaching implications for both state and local governments as well as their
constituents. Congress included clear language in the Act maintaining that local governments
control only the public right of way (PROW). Now, however, the telephone and cable
industries are seeking to limit local authorities through state legislatures, the courts, and even
state public utility commissions as they seek to accomplish at the local level what they could
not at the federal level.
As you are aware, municipal governments have historically regulated the PROW and received
compensation from private commercial concerns for use, maintenance, and upkeep of this
property through franchise fees and other recompense. In the past few months legislation
backed by some of the country's largest telecommunications companies, including US West
and MCl, has been introduced in a number of states which would limit local control over the
PROW and limit the fees municipalities can receive for compensation. Bills in California and
Colorado would prohibit cities from charging fees beyond the actual cost of processing a
permit for excavation, for example. In Minnesota US West and the Minnesota Cable
Telecommunications Association went to court to limit a municipality's authority over the local
telephone company to ",..the location of poles, wires, and other equipment or facilities on,
below, or above the street...". In Michigan TCI has appealed to the FCC for a ruling which
would limit local authority to regulate PROW for telephony services. In some cases the
telecommunications industry has found support in state public utility commissions seeking to
extend and assert their authority over delivery of telephone service and limiting the authority
of municipal governments. The Iowa legislature will likely be a target in the upcoming
session.
The 1996 Telecommunications Act specifically states that local government has the right to
charge fair and reasonable fees for the use of the PROW and that those fees must be
nondiscriminatory. Any fees must be applied equally to all potential competitors, including
cable companies offering telephone services. In fact, a recent study by the National
Association of Telecommunications Officers and Administrators (NATOA) showed that in the
case of Denver only 13% of the actual costs for the upkeep of the PROW are recouped by the
city. The remaining costs have been borne by citizens as a public subsidy. Those costs
would include any and all costs associated with the PROW, such as the design, construction,
monitoring, and regulation of the PROW, To not include all such costs in fees to the users
The Honorable Minnette Doderer
October 21, 1996
Page 2
of the PROW will mean citizens and local governments will have to bear the difference of
those costs, just as the Denver study has indicated.
Arguments put forth by the telecommunications industries often assert that any fees paid to
local governments to cover the costs of using the PROW will stifle competition and result in
higher costs to the consumer. I believe these claims are unfounded. Any fees must be
applied equally in a nondiscriminatory manner to any competitor. In fact, local telephone rates
are lower in some areas of the courttry in which PROW fees are collected than in areas where
they are not. For example, the local line charges in Mr. Prospect are $9.08 per month while
they are $12.05 in Iowa City. Mt. Prospect charges PROW fees currently, while Iowa City
does not, Historically, telephone companies have charged whatever the market will bear and
they can convince the public utility commissions to permit. In short, there is no evidence to
suggest local fees will have an adverse impact on consumer rates.
Thank you for your time and consideration of this important matter. I wanted to make you
aware of the likelihood that telecommunications industries' lobbying efforts will likely be
undertaken in the near future in Iowa, and express concerns regarding the detrimental effects
of the provisions put forth by these industry's in other areas of the country. Please feel free
to contact Drew Shaffer, Cable TV Administrator, at (319)356-5046 for additional
information.
Sincerely,
Naomi J. Novick
Mayor, Iowa City
cc: BTC
cabletv/t ¢omact.mrg
October 22, 1996
Mr. Steven E. Ballard
LEFF, HAUPERT, TRAW, & WILLMANN, LLP
222 South Linn Street
P.O. Box 2447
Iowa City, IA 52244-2447
CITY OF I0 WA
CITY
Re: University Heights-Iowa City Agreement for Transit Service, Response to Your
October 14, 1996 Letter
Dear Mr. Ballard:
I am in receipt of your letter dated October 14, 1996 regarding the University Heights-Iowa City
agreement for transit services. You state in your letter that the University Heights City Council
would like to receive further information in order to evaluate Iowa City's proposed transit
agreement for fiscal year 1996-97. This includes a ridership survey that Johnson County
Council of Governments (JCCOG) is planning to do in the near future. This has been agreed
to by Jeff Davidson, (JCCOG Director) and this information has been conveyed to the
University Heights City Council in prior meetings.
This does not answer the question of what University Heights should be paying for the transit
service provided to them by Iowa City for Fiscal Year (FY) 1997. The results of this survey
have no impact on what should be charged University Heights for FY97. This may be
information that could be used to calculate future contracts for transit services with University
Heights but not for FY97.
On behalf of the City, I cannot accept the proposal from the University Heights City Council of
$2,255 per month for transit services and suggest that a joint meeting be set to discuss a
mutually agreeable fee to be paid. In previous correspondence dated June 28, 1996 to
Mayor Swanson the suggested rate of $2,818 per month is based on population per pdor year
calculations (except for FY96 and FY95). If the new census figure projections are near City
estimates the FY97 proposed rate would have been $2,483/month.
I look forward to hearing from you regarding this matter. Please call me if you have any
questions.
Sincerely,
Finance Director
CC:
Iowa City City Council
Stephen Atkins, City Manager
Jeff Davidson, JCCOG
University Heights Mayor Donald Swanson
Joe Fowler
Ron Logsden
PHONE (319} 356.5000
FAX{319} 356.~009
3es-
October 23, 1996
Mr. Dan Tiedt
PIP Printing
4t5 Highland Avenue
Iowa City, Iowa 52240
CITY OF I0 WA CITY
Dear Mr. Tiedt:
Thank you for your presentation to the City Council about the proposed Highland
Avenue Storm Sewer. I was not at the meeting, but I am told that it was very well
presented and positively received by the Council.
The City Council has indicated that they have a strong interest in doing the projem. We
are in the process of negotiating a price for the work with the contractor performing the
sanitary sewer work. We expect to have a pdce to present to the City Council this
winter. If the price is reasonable, 1 expect the Council will approve the project for
construction in 1997.
Please understand that adding the storm sewer work to the sanitary sewer construction
already scheduled for Highland Avenue will increase the duration of construction and
make access to businesses more difficult while the contractor is working. I believe that
most will agree that the improved storm sewer is worth the inconvenience, but it is
important to know that up front.
I will keep you informed as to the progress of the project and again, I thank you for your
support.
cc: Steve Atkins, City Manager
Tim Randall, Project Manager
410 EAST ~ASHINOTOI~ STREET · IOWA CITY, IOWA $2240-1826 · (319) 356-5000 · FAX I319) 3~6-~009
oct z
CENTERSPACE
October 24,1996
To: Members of the Iowa City Council:
2' Naomi Novick, Mayor
Larry Baker
Karen Kubby
Ernie Lehman
Dee Norton
Dean Thornberry
Dee Vanderhoef
From: Co-chairs, CenterSpace Committee:
Karen Chappell
Joyce Summerwill
Shirley Wyrick
The CenterSpace committee has given thoughtful consideration to the possibility of
combining the CenterSpace conference and cultural center concept with that of the
need for additional Iowa City Public Library space. We would appreciate your giving
the enclosed materials your attention as you prepare for your meeting with the
Library staff and board.
It is our belief that the combination of Library and CenterSpace can provide the
special energy and momentum in downtown Iowa City which will maintain and
enhance its unique and special character, and which will bring more visitors and
general public downtown to participate, to enjoy it and to do commerce in it.
We are also giving these materials to the Library Board and to members of the
newly formed Downtown Strategies Committee, along with the many organizations
that have shown interest in the CenterSpace concept over the course of its
development.
We appreciate the encouragement of our past Iowa City Councils and will be most
happy to meet with you whenever you feel that is appropriate.
A Downtown Iowa City Vision Statement
Fall, 1996
We, members of the CenterSpace Steering Committee, believe this community is
graced with a rare opportunity to demonstrate the vision our citizens have
celebrated in the past.
The foresight of earlier leaders brought about a downtown renewal that is the envy
of municipalities nationwide. The renewal project and ensuing civic, business and
volunteer efforts through the years have preserved, enhanced and multiplied the
unique attributes that make Iowa City a destination rather than a departing point in
this region.
It's time for a next visionary step. The opportunity before us calls for the
inventive use of the last remaining parcel of downtown urban renewal
property. How can this property best be used to further our city's vision
and to benefit this region? Can a facility be packaged that will become our
downtown's keystone? Can a facility be envisioned to meet documented
community needs and attract increasing numbers of people to the
downtown? Can we envision and bring to reality in this key location a
structure that blends community goals and commercial goals? We believe
that with an inventive approach, the answer to these questions is Yes.
For over five years, the CenterSpace group of volunteers, representing a good cross
section of area residents and more than 40 arts and cultural organizations, has
worked to develop the concept of CenterSpace. Discussions led to a professional
feasibility study commissioned by the City of Iowa City affirming in 1994 the need
and logic for incorporating cultural and conference facilities into a mixed use
building on the last parcel of urban renewal land.
From the beginning of discussions, CenterSpace has been seen not standing by itself
but housed in a building that represents a good blend of both private and public
enterprise, a facility incorporating cultural, arts, conferencing and commercial
spaces. And we are convinced that the CenterSpace concept lends itself to many
different mixes, that it is a flexible one that could include a new Public Library, a
commercial food market (such as New Pioneer Co-op) and/or condominiums on
the top floors, in addition to several elements of the CenterSpace concept.
The CenterSpace committee would like to suggest combining elements of
CenterSpace with the building of a new public library and possible
approaches:
First, a New Building on the Last Urban Renewal Parcel:
1. We can envision a first floor that would have a separate entrance, lobby and first
floor devoted to the Iowa City Public Library (ICPL), as well as an open area that
would serve as a multi-purpose lobby incorporating the Information and Gathering
Centers we propose for CenterSpace (see the attached summary page of each of the
CenterSpace elements for a description).
The ICPL and the Information and Gathering Centers could be separate or
inte~udngled. Certainly both deal with the public at large, with families and with
essential services already identified as public needs. The cultural and community
activities envisioned in these centers could easily be part of the ICPL's mission since
an artskultural information area and central ticketing has long been a need in this
community.
2. We envision also a 500 seat conference and perfomlance auditorium as part of a
new building (this cannot be built into the current ICPL building because of its
structure). A full, but moderately-sized auditorium/perfo~-~ance hall has long been
a need for this community (the ICPL itself has professed a need for such an
auditorium in some of its programs). This $00 seat conference and performance
auditorium can accommodate primary daytime needs of conferences and primary.
evening needs of performances which include music, theater, talks, and a wide
range of presentations.
With the rapid growth of media and television we envision an exciting perfo~udng
arts and conference space that would lend itself well to multimedia, video and other
technology-based conference and community presentations. Support services for
conferences and performance require a fly space to house necessary screens and sets
for efficient use of this multipurpose space.
3. We envision in this building the addition of more library meeting rooms and
conferencing rooms, even while retaining present meeting rooms in the current
library. This could meet public demand for adequate meeting spaces, available to
anyone in the community, and could encourage more visitors by providing
adequate conference areas when combined with those of the nearby hotel or with
other hotels in the area.
Secondly, Utilization of the Current Library Building:
1. We envision the Communication Center as part of the renovated current library
building. It would house area-wide community-based public access television with
the capability of video and public access television service to all areas in the urban
renewal building as well as this building. (see the attached summary page of each of
the CenterSpace elements for a description).
2
2. We envision, also, a Visual and Literary Arts Center as part of this renovated
building. This would include exhibition space, workshops and hands-on activities
in the arts as well as a home for the very successful Arts Iowa City which has
developed the prototypes for these activities in its longtime downtown location.
(see attached summary page for description).
3. In a renovated current library building, we envision more space for activities
constituting a Discovery Center with exhibition space and areas for hands-on
learning experiences of every kind. (see attached summary page for description).
The Discovery Center could provide exhibition space for exhibits generated within
the center itself or by organizations such as the Johnson County Historical Society
which are not housed in the Discovery Center.
Lastly, a Bridge between the new building and the present library:
To best serve the integration of the activities between these two buildings, and in
the best interest of the public, the CenterSpace committee suggests that a
weatherized bridge (skywalk or underground connection), allowing freedom of
movement between the two sites, be designed between the two buildings. A bridge
will give access to the parking ramp and to the varied and related activities taking
place on both sites.
Members of the CenterSpace Committee, a Task Force of the Iowa City Area
Chamber of Commerce:
Richard Blazek - Part Cain - Karen Chappell, co-chair - Wally Chappell - Maggie Conroy -
Judith Dows - John Fitzpatrick - Wendy Ford - Donna Friedman - Gloria Galask - Rudy G~l~k -
Mary Gantz - Patrick Grady - John Hes~ - Jo Jones - Christiane Knorr - Mary Lea Kru~ - Donald
Macfarlane - Betty McKray - Barbara Nilausen-K - Kevin O'Brien - Ren~ Paine - Laurie Robh~son -
Robert Sierk - W. Richard Summerwill - Joyce Summerwill, co-chair - Alan Swanson - Wallace
Tomasini - Dickie Van Meter - Steve West - Craig Willis - Shirley Wyrick, co-chair
3
CenterSpace - a regional Cultural/Conference Center
Executive Summary - Spring, 1996
Name and Scope of Project;
CenterSpace is seen as a mixed-use facility providing opportunities for community
residents and visitors to participate in a wide variety of programs, performances,
exhibitions, events, workshops, classes, conferences and commercial offerings. Sited
on the last urban renewal parcel in downtown Iowa City adjacent to the Iowa City
Public Library and Pedestrian Mall, CenterSpace will be accessible to people of all
ages, populations, incomes and artistic experience. CenterSpace will serve the
community by joining traditional and innovative cultural activities with
educational opportunities and commercial enterprises. This integration is essential
to the facility's concept and key to its success. In addition to the conference and
commercial spaces, the cultural components would consist of the following:
Performinff Arts Center is a 500 seat conference and performance auditorium
with support areas, including fly space.
16,400 square feet estimated cost; $3,102,940
Information, Discovery & Gathering Center with multipurpose lobby is a
"hands-on" exhibits and educational space designed to attract families and
children in addition to its usage by the community for such needs as public
arts/cultural events and public, business and private receptions, etc. This space
also includes a centralized regional scheduling, infol'mation and ticketing
operation.
6,300 square feet estimated cost: $736,000
Communication Center is the area-wide community-based public access
television site for live and taped productions. Also provides service to all
activities and components of CenterSpace, including conferences, presentations,
and meetings.
3,000 square feet estimated cost: $314,000
Visual & Literary Arts Center (VLA) - all wall surfaces and public floor areas
within CenterSpace will be used for exhibitions and impromptu performances
and events. (Other off-premises exhibition sites in the area might be included as
part of the CenterSpace concept.) In addition, the VLA Center includes four
traditional classrooms and studios for visual arts such as painting, sculpthag,
printmaking, photography, etc., that can also be used for rehearsal space.
4,700 square feet estimated cost: $447,000
J~m~on County
Don SeI~, Chairperson
Joe Bolkcom
Charles D. Duffy
Stcph~n P. Lacina
Sally Stutsman
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
October 24, 1996
FORMAL MEETING
Agend
Call to order 9:00 a.m.
Action re: claims
3. Action re: formal minutes of October 17th.
Action re: payroll authorizations
5. Business from the Planning and Zoning Administrator.
a) Discussion/action re: approval of Application SP 10 of Mike Hodge
and Greg Dowries requesting a site plan review for Lot 3 of Scotts
Fourth Addition.
b) Other
6. Business from the County Auditor.
a) Action re: permits
b) Action re: reports
c) Other
Business from Joe Rasmunssen, Representative for Public Professional
and Maintenance Employees', IBPAT Local 2003 re: employees of
Johnson County Secondary Roads Department first bargaining
proposal/discussion.
913 SOUTH DUBUQUE ST. P.O. BOX 1350 IOWA CITY, IOWA 52244-1350 TEL: (319) 356-6000
FAX: (319) 356-6086
To, ~OIA CIT~ CCE~L ~:o~; Jo 8ogarl'y 10-Z3-9§ 8,~Sam p. 3 of 3
Agenda 10-24-96
Page 2
8. Business from the County Attorney.
a) Report re: other items.
9. Business from the Board of Supervisors.
a) Motion authorizing Chairperson to sign Emergency M~ical Sexyices
Training Money Conlxact in the amount of $10,235.00.
b) Other
10. Executive Session to discuss collective bargaining strategy for S.E.A.T.S.,
Social Services, Ambulance, and Secondary Roads.
11. Adjourn to informal meeting.
a) inquiries and reports from the public.
b) Reports and inquiries from the members of file Board of Supervisors.
Report from the County Attorney.
d) Other
12. Adjournment.
Strategy panel lists pros, cons of Iowa City downtown
~o,~'-q/, By John Kenyon Several perceived problems with "l go to (the Community Education to the City Council in December and
Gazette Johnson Cou~tty Bureau
IOWA CITY i The city's newly
appointed Downtown Strategy Commit-
lee has its work cut otl[ ['or it if the
ease with which members can list
negative aspects of downtown is any
indication.
That task likely will be eased. how-
evet', by a tong list of positive things
commiltee members also see. Both lists
were the product of the committee's
first meeting, held Thursday afternoon.
The t6-member committee is charged
with determining what type of activi-
ties and features draw people to down-
town and what keeps people away. It
also will ask what activities and fea-
tures could be added or eliminated to
draw more people downtown.
downtown were listed, including lack
of parking, litter, snow removal and
the lack of enforcement against illegal
activities.
Parking drew the m(~st discussion,
with some committee members saying
there was not enough and others say.
ing Iowa City had plenty of parking
when compared with other cities.
"Dealing with a parking problem is
better than not having a parking prob-
lem." said John Gross, owner of Tech-
nigraphics.
Gang presence on the Pedestrian
Mall also was raised as a concern.
Committee member MAst Hirst said
the belief that many youths on the
Pedestrian Mall are in gangs is a
misperception.
Center), and tike most CEC students, t
· have been mistaken for a gang mem-
ber," Hirst said. "Ifs a matter of
perception."
Positive things listed by the commit-
tee included arts activities, the variety
of shops, convenience and the presence
of the University of Iowa.
Karin Franklin. director of the city's
Planning and Community Development
Department, led the meeting. Franklin
said the group has six months to
prepare its proposals.
"And if it looks like things are
getting bogged down, we'll push you,"
she said. "We don't want to lose
individual participation by getting
bogged down."
The committee will report its vision
will present an implementation plan to
the council in March.
A public forum is scheduled for 7
p.m. Nov. 14 at the Iowa City'Public
Library so residents can share their
ideas. Committee members will discuss
those comments at the next meeting,
Nov. 20.
The committee members are:
Marc Belttame, Nancy Burhans,
Marge Dane, Bob Finch, Joanne Fritz
Victoria Gilpin, Suzanne Gleason, Ste
phen Greenleaf, Gross, Marty Haynes
Hirst, Gretchen Holt, Gary Lundquist
Bruce Sorrell, Dick Summerwill an{
Shirley Wyrick.
The members were chosen to repre
sent specific sectors of Iowa City.
From hisire'it O/d C~ipi~,)l
a litely pedesu'km
[111 (11'! 11111Si'lIIll lO (I J)i~,q\ ]~c~L~. I
From q.irky merclzamlise
to fineJbod. Iowa City offer.
di.uinctivch' .~ol)histicated fc
OL) G0;r
By day 8~ack
For The Globe Gazel!e
MASON CITY
ed mty
people watching to
tqmply ooakdng Up file
to,,~ pro~,des
Old
· ~!.."
· d
By Jay Black
For The Globe*Gazelle
MASON CITY
North Iowans
that you re
headed to Iowa
City and they'll
mediarely
mg to a foot-
ball game or fern checkup at Univer-
sity Hospitals
But there is much more to Iowa
C~ty than ball games and rood,col
tests. The town is a traveler's dehght
Iowa City has so much to offer a v~s.
itor in food. music. art and shopping
that you'll be astounded at the re:my
entertaimnent possibilities awaiting
you in this multi.faceted. sophisticat-
ed city.
boutiques of all kinds, unusual restau-
rants. quirky bars. live music. c]asmc
movie houses and sidewalk food van.
dora. The University Art Museum
along the lows River is a must de.~t~-
nation. na is Old Capitol. Iowa's first
statehouse.
Other internting
diver'sions reng~ from
people watching to
simply soaking up the
lively stimulation a
town with a major ani-
varsity can offer
There is nothing
campus fidl of nearly
30.000 students riding
the cusp of fresh ideas.
Their influence on
any town, espeoally s
one the size of lows
City, can be felt the
minute you hit the
Many people choose
to live here because of ~
the vivacity this college
town provides
"IOWA CITY is a
great town to visit,'
said David Viktucek,
Mason City, who trav-
els there about six
surer of the ]owe
Humanities Board.
'1 always look for-
ward to each trip over
there. My wife. Denise.
and 1 like university
towns because of the arts, culture and
diversity they provide. And Iowa City
has that special kind of atmosphere
and appeal my family likes to seek out
when we travel."
~ I/qT~G place to atay
that's dose to all this action is the
Golden Hang (pronounced hog~ Bed
and Breakfast home· The Haugs, Nila
and Dennis. have one of the most
unusual B&B's in Iowa. Because of
their name, they have dasigned their
homo around pig~ and it's just delight-
tul.
Their four teems have names such
as "Swine and Roses~ and "Sir
Francis Bacon." The rest of the
home also is decorated with lov-
able L~es. [ovable~ pigs.
Thr weather vane on the roof
~s a pi-v and they have o wooden
-'guard-p,g" by the front door.
The re-t of thmr home is deco-
rated with stuffed pigs, swine
prin~ and piggy pillows. Their
break fa~ts are superb and the
location. just east of downtown.
makes everything worth visiting
within easy walking distance.
Acros~ the street is an excel-
lent used book store and an
See IOWA CITY, ~4
qui~
inaj~
Oty',
Clod
from
up
Mark
dot d
· hosp
The (
Hau¢
and ~
who$
iOWU lLy UlI 1o
sophistication
Iowa ('itv
From Pag~ S1'
unusual food shop. Both busi-
nesses make a perfect. intro-
duction to tl,re eclectic nature of
this city.
The Haunted Book Shop i~ a
well organized book store. It's
in an old home and has more
than 25,000 titles to choose ~:
from. They sell used books but
will also search for books not
in stock that a customer wants
to obtain.
Next door is the new Pioneer
Coop Grocery. Many people ...
would not think a grocery ste~.
belongs in a tour guide, but it's
so different it's well worth a visit.
Few items in the store are
pre-packaged. Most are sold in
bulk, as stores did years ago.
They have stacks of fresh veg-
etables and fruit plus an area of
bulk beans and another for noo-
dles and spices. One wall is
devoted to different kinds of cof-
fees, the wine selection is huge '
and the bakery section features
European-style organic breads. ~
The deli has interesting offer-
ings such as tefu with parme-
san cheese, egg plant appetizers
and marinated peppers.
A stroll downtown takes you
to a two-block-long brick
pedestrian mall where every-
one seems to gravitate. There
are flower beds, wood benches
and shady trees. Food vendors
sell iced coffee, Polish sausages
and Greek gyros.
Interesting shops, art gal-
lames, restaurants and bars
front the mall. There are also
those marvelous kiosks plas-
tered with all kinds ofnotices
usually found in college towns.
Some of the businesses on the
mall have names hke The
Peaceful Fool, Almost Blue,
Moon Mystique, Third Coast
and Vibe Music. One of the two
Italian restaurants boasted a
special entree of slmmp sauteed
m garlic, basil, oregano and i
scsilions gla2ed with white wine
and served with cold tomatoes,
rata cheese and linquine.
After all this, consider a
walk across the river for a visit
to the University of lows
Museum of Art. Currently on
display, until Nov. 3, is an
impressive and inspiring exhi-
bition entitled "Plain Pictures:
Image~ of the American
Prairie." It brings a fresh
enthusiasm and new apprecia-
tion for our geographical her-
itsga. The prairie was a wild
giant sea of grass that present-
ed challenges. a~d hardships to
pioneers that is hard for us to
come to grips with today.
The exhibit graphically
depicts this lonely, inhos-
pitable windswept expanse of
sky and ground and the dan-
gers that lurked there for the
hunters and sod-bustere who
entered it. There are paintings
by Iowa artist Grant Wood and
his friend and colleague Mar-
vin Cone as well as Missouri
painter Thomas Hart Benton.
Other paintings of the early
prairie include works by John
Steuart Curry, George Catlin
and I.L~rl Bedmet.
It's another example of the
diversity and depth a visitor to
Iowa City can easily discover.
It's only a three-hour drive
away, so pack your bags and
get going.
October 14, 1996
The Johnson County Unit of Church Women United Invites you and all
members of the city council to World Community Day to be held
November 1, 1996 at Zion Lutheran Church In Iowa City. This ts an annual
event whlch attempts to address critical social Issues and provides an
opportunity for people of faith to deepen their commitments to individual
witness and corporate action.
The theme for thls yeaifs event is "Women and Violence and the Church."
This program is a powerful, creative way of addressing the problem of
violence against women. Using poetry and music, it gives participants a
glimpse of the Inner life of victims of abuse, and Issues a strong challenge
to churches to open dialogue about theology that is damaging to
women.
Registration for the program begins at Zion Lutheran Church, 310 N
Johnson, at 12:30 p.m. The program will be held In the Zion parish hall
beginning at 1 .'~ p.m. Childcare will be available. We hope that you will
be able to attend and appreciate your willingness to encourage other
members of the community to attend as well.
Members of the Planning Committee
Bea Beyerhelm
Kathy Keasler
Joan Luhman
Patti Matt
Phyllis Nelson
CITY £1£RK Fzoa, Jo Uogar~¥ 10-~U-96 10:~§aR p. ~ of 2
Jobmort CounU-
Don Sehr, Chairperson
Joe Bolk¢om
Charles D. Duffy
Stophen P. La¢ina
Sally Slutsman
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
October 29, 1996
INFORMAL MEETING
Agenda
1. Call to order 9:00 a.m.
2. Review of the formal minutes of October 24th.
Business from Brad Neumann, Solid Waste Management Planner for
Johnson County Council of Governments re: Waste Tire State Collection
Program/discussion.
4. Business from the Board of Supervisors.
a) Discussion re: FY 98 public information hearing.
b) Reports
c) Other
5. Business from the County Attorney.
(K m)
a) Executive Session to discuss collective bargaining strategy
S.E.A.T.S., Social Services, Ambulance, and Secondary Roads.
b) Other
Discussion from the public.
Recess.
for
913 SOOTH DUBUQUE ST. P.O. BOX 1350 IOWA CITY, IOWA 52244.1350
TEL: (319) 356-6000
FAX: (319)
356-6086~1~
PRESS RELEASE
CITY OF I0 WA CITY
City officials are responding to preliminary Special Census figures released Monday by the U.S.
Bureau of Census with optimism and surprise. Those figures show Iowa City has grown to
60,087 and has 24,539 housing units. Marian Karr, City Clerk and Co-Chair of the Census
Committee, stated they are only preliminary figures and staff is looking forward to reviewing
the final figures due in December. Preliminary figures indicate that although there has been
an increase in households, the new numbers reflect fewer persons per household.
City Clerk Karr explained the City is still in the final phase of the 1996 Special Census which
involves the "Were You Counted" campaign. This campaign requests that persons living in
Iowa City but who were not counted for the Special Census complete a mail census form." I'm
optimistic that the "Were You Counted" program will increase final population figures."
The "Were You Counted" form ran Saturday, October 26, in the Iowa City Press Citizen and
will re-run again on Wednesday, October 30. Individuals who have not been counted or wish
to adjust previously provided information should complete the "Were You Counted" form and
return to the address listed on the bottom of the form. The forms are also available in the iowa
City Public Library and main lobby of the Civic Center, 410 East Washington Street.
The final report from the Bureau of Census must be certified to the State by December 31.
When the final report is completed the City expects to receive valuable information on the
vacancy rate of housing units by geographic area, breakdowns of age and gender, numbers
of people living in group quarters (dormitories, nursing homes, etc.) and ethic background.
Additionally an increase in state monies are also anticipated as a result of increased population.
bc2-1MK
PHONE {319} 356-.~000
FAX(319) 356-5009
IOWA CITY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Area Chamber Library Task Force Proposal
The Executive Committee of the Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce
convened a task force of Chamber members in August to study and discuss the
need for expanded library services in Iowa City. The charge of the task force was
to evaluate how the need for expanded library services might interconnect with
other identified community needs, assets, and opportunities.
1
Initially the goal of the task force was to attempt to offer the Chamber's
perspective on the interplay between the various components of these issues to
members of the Iowa City City Council, City staff, the Library Board, Chamber
members, and others involved in this process. However, after numerous
meetings and discussions with library officials, City officials, and representatives
of the CenterSpace project, a consensus developed among members of the task
force on one specific proposal that we feel deserves careful evaluation.
it is important to note that this proposal is advanced for the purpose of
encouraging the determination of its feasibility. It is conceivable that after an
evaluation is completed, the Board of Directors of the Area Chamber could
decide it cannot support the proposal, But the proposed concept has numerous
features which we feel have the potential to satisfy several current, identified
needs of the community at what we expect will be considerably less cost than
several other competing proposals,
Members of the task force include:
Tom Gelman, Phelan, Tucker, Mullen, Walker, Tucker & Gelman
Current Chair of the Board of Directors
Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce
Harry Wolf, Southgate Development Corporation
Past Chair of the Board of Directors
Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce
Vicki Lensing, Lensing Funeral and Cremation Service
Member, Board of Directors
Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce
Bill Nusser, Hands Jewelers
Marty Haynes, Hansen Lind Meyer
John Beckord, President
Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce
IOWA CITY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
2
Executive Summary of Chamber Proposal
Th'e Area Chamber urges the City of Iowa City and the Iowa City Library B,
car~t Ily evaluate the construction of a mixed-use facility, including a
on 1 64-1A adjacent to the Holiday Inn, with the following cornpone
An o
would
considered,
become the
One or two leve
Sell or lease the
developer
Study the
as part
parcel 64-1A being large
parking, and a theater. But
significant traffic
Redevelop the existin
facility including pu
rooms, visitor )n center
(precluding the 3and
COil:~i~/i~/,,~ f~ h e proposed
/
library on the first two (three if necessary) levels of the
"performance plaza" immediately adjacent to the ' Inn. This
an important expansion of the and
epicenter of artistic expression in the area. We
:the feasibility of partially covering t31aza be
'haps by upper levels of the could
~iece of a downtown redevel ~gy.
underground parking.
rights" for 3 to 5 addi
and/or office
~nstructing
floors to a private
3ment.
: theater with fly space
doubts about the feasibility of
accommodate the library, underground
,re is no question that a theater would be a
~owntown Iowa City.
a mixed use public or public/private
~ision studios, expanded public meeting
box office, additional City office space
,ic center), and space for several
cultural nter.
iOWA CiTY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
2
Executive Summary of Chamber Proposal
The Area Chamber urges the City of Iowa City and the Iowa City Library Board to
carefully evaluate the construction of a mixed-use facility, including a new library,
on parcel 64-1A adjacent to the Holiday Inn, with the following components and
features:
A new library on the first two (three if necessary) levels of the building.
· An open "performance plaza" immediately adjacent to the Holiday Inn. This
would represent an important expansion of the pedestrian mall and
become the epicenter of artistic expression in the downtown area. We
recommend that the feasibility of partially covering this plaza be
considered, perhaps by upper levels of the building. This feature could
become the centerpiece of a downtown redevelopment strategy.
· One or two levels of underground parking.
· Sell or lease the "air dghts" for 3 to 5 additional floors to a pdvate
developer for residential and/or office development.
· Study the feasibility of constructing a 500 to 600 seat theater with fly space
as part of the mixed-use facility. We have doubts about the feasibility of
parcel 64-1A being large enough to accommodate the library, underground
parking, and a theater. But there is no question that a theater would be a
significant traffic generator for downtown Iowa City.
· Redevelop the existing library into a mixed use public or public/private
facility including public access television studios, expanded public meeting
rooms, visitor information center and box office, additional City office space
(precluding the need to expand the civic center), and space for several
components of the proposed cultural center.
IOWA CiTY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Questions & Answers
Our interviews with various people close to these projects and our evaluation of
the options has generated numerous questions that are key to an understanding
of our proposal.
Why not embrace the Library Board's proposal to expand the
existing library to the west?
Our view is that the proposal to demolish the Lenoch & Cilek building, build an
addition with commercial space on ground level, and extensively remodel the
existing library, is not likely to be approved by voters. It is a complex proposal
with a painfully high price tag.
Why not make marginal improvements to the existing library
and make do for 5 to 10 years?
The shortage of library space is simply too severe, even if 5,000 to 7,000 sq.ft.
could be added to the existing library. This Band-Aid approach would not be a
prudent use of public funds and we would be debating a major expansion again
in 5 years.
The existing library is only 20 years old. How can we justify the
construction of a new library?
It is very unfortunate that the existing library was not built with upward expansion
in mind. Clearly, we would not be contemplating this proposal if builders of the
existing library had envisioned the needs of a growing community. But they did
not. Now we must deal with the reality that we have a critical need for more
library space. Fortunately, the existing library can accommodate other
community needs and lot 64-1A, which is owned by the City, is still available.
Is a mixed-use librarylresidentiallofficeltheater complex really
the best use of parcel 64-1A?
We think so, especially when combined with one or two levels of underground
parking. It is our judgment that additional commercial space is not feasible in the
foreseeable future, particularly with the Hieronymus Square project on the front
burner. The addition of nearly One million (and possibly more) sq.ft. of
commercial space in Coralville during the next two years is also part of our
assessment.
Parcel 64-1A has been undeveloped for 20 years. It's time to move ahead with a
creative development proposal. There has always been a desire by the City
Council and the Area Chamber to include public space in any development on
64-1A. Finally, there would be no site acquisition costs, the air rights would have
real value to private developers, and the parcel is not particularly well-located for
commercial space.
IOWA CITY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
4
The Library Board's proposal would have resulted in a 79,000
sq.ft. library. Why is the Chamber suggesting that fewer S~luare
feet .c. ouid pos,sibly be enough? /
The Library Board s proposal included considerable space for public neetings.
Our proposal s. uggests those needs could be part of the redevelopm,eht of the
existing library, thus reducing the square footage required for a new~ibrary. We
urge the Library ~,oard to evaluate their space needs and determiD~ if there are
other non-essential.~library functions that could be located in the ~kisting library.
(For example storaget and/or office space.) If necessary, an unc~erground service
tunnel could connect anew library to the existing library.
If the air rights are ~o, id or leased, and a developper builds
apartments or office space on upper floors, where would the
library expand in the future. /
Library officials have indicated that after their propos/ed expansion, they would
be at a size where branch libraries make sense. We'assume this logic would
apply to our proposal. . /
How does the Chamber proposal co.rn~are to the Library Board's
proposal in terms of cost? , //
We are unable at this juncture to accurately estimate the difference in cost.
However, consider the following: '
· The City owns parcel 64-1A free/and Clear. There will be no site acquisition
costs as compared to acquir.~rf~ the Len0ch & Cilek building and
demolishing it. /
· The below ground parkin./~. facility wdl be a Iopg term source of revenue.
· The air rights have considerable (although undetermined) value. We
expect an estimate w6uld not be difficult for the city to develop.
/
· Reducing the nur01~er of square feet required for a new library by locating
meeting space a, fid perhaps other non-essential functions in the existing
library, will red}ice the cost of the project.
· Relocating c)ertaln c~ty offices that currently occupy leased office space
would effectively represent a shifting of operational expenses from one
location,t6 another. Also, city office space in the existing library will
preclud~ the need for expanding the Civic Center.
· Ultimately, if after careful evaluation, the redevelopment of the existing
library is deemed to be unfeasible, selling all or part of the buildixng is an
option to consider to help recover some of the expense of buildih~,xa new
library on parcel 64-1A.
Again, as stated before, we have rK)t undertaken a comprehensive evaluation of
ti~e costs of our proposal. We have seen data that indicates other Iowa
IOWA CITY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
4
The Library Board's proposal would have resulted in a 79;000
sq.ft. library. Why is the Chamber suggesting that fewer square
feet could possibly be enough?
The Library Board's proposal included considerable space for public meetings.
Our proposal suggests those needs could be part of the redevelopment of the
existing library, thus reducing the square footage required for a new library. We
urge the Library Board to evaluate their space needs and determine if there are
other non-essential library functions that could be located in the existing library.
(For example storage and/or office space.) If necessary, an underground service
tunnel could connect a new library to the existing library.
If the air rights are sold or leased, and a developer builds
apartments or office space on upper floors, where would the
library expand in the future?
Library officials have indicated that after their proposed expansion, they would
be at a size where branch libraries make sense. We assume this logic would
apply to our proposal.
How does the Chamber proposal compare to the Library Board's
proposal in terms of cost?
We are unable at this juncture to accurately estimate the difference in cost.
However, consider the following:
· The City owns parcel 64-1A free and clear. There will be no site acquisition
costs as compared to acquiring the Lenoch & Cilek building and
demolishing it.
· The below ground parking facility will be a long term source of revenue.
The air rights have considerable (although undetermined) value. We
expect an estimate would not be difficult for the city to develop.
· Reducing the number of square feet required for a new library by locating
meeting space and perhaps other non-essential functions in the existing
library, will reduce the cost of the project.
· Relocating certain city offices that currently occupy leased office space
would effectively represent a shifting of operational expenses from one
location to another. Also, city office space in the existing library will
preclude the need for expanding the Civic Center.
· Ultimately, if after careful evaluation, the redevelopment of the existing
library is deemed to be unfeasible, selling all or part of the building is an
option to consider to help recover some of the expense of building a new
library on parcel 64-1A.
Again, as stated before, we have not undertaken a comprehensive evaluation of
the costs of our proposal. We have seen data that indicates other Iowa
IOWA CITY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
5
communities have recently built libraries for between $130 to $155 per sq.ft.
Depending on the factors sighted above, we expect that a new, marginally
smaller library could be built on 64-1A for considerably less than the Library
Board's original proposal.
Why choose another downtown location for a central library?
The Library Board feels a downtown location, within 3 or 4 blocks of the public
transportation hub, is important to fulfilling the library's mission. Additionally,
several city officials have expressed the view that a downtown location is
important to the vitality of the City's central commercial district.
One aspect of this issue is what we have come to call the "location premium".
That is, the cost differential of building a library in the downtown area compared
to constructing it in an outlying location is the premium the community would pay
to facilitate the development of Iowa City's downtown. This extra cost (which has
not been determined) is essentially a cost associated with a downtown
development strategy.
Did the Chamber task force consider other alternative sites for
construction of a new library?
Yes. Several pareels of land adjacent to the Gilbert Street parking ramp (bus
depot, Wilson's Sporting Goods) could be assembled for a library. One
advantage would be the availability of parking in the ramp. But the site would not
meet other objectives such as proximity to the transportation hub or serve as an
anchor to a downtown redevelopment strategy.
Did the Chamber task force consider the CenterSpace project
proposal for combining a conference center and a theater on 64-
'!A?
Yes. It is our judgment that funding for the originally proposed CenterSpace
project on 64-1A would not be likely for several years due to competition for
private and public funds from numerous community improvement projects.
Additionally, we are concerned that the proposed theater, with flyspace, will be
difficult to build on parcel 64-1A and accommodate the needs of the library. But a
feasibility study will determine whether both are possible.
The idea that a theater could double as a conference facility is interesting but
additional facilities of adequate size would be required to make the concept
work. We think it is prudent to study whether another site, possibly in the near
south side area, would be better for a conference facility. The whole question of
what kind and size of conference facilities this community needs should be
revisited.
IOWA CITY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
6
It is important to note that a vision of building conference facilities at another
location does not necessarily preclude the feasibility of building a theater on 64-
1A.
How does the Chamber's proposal meet the needs of the
proposed cultural center?
Discussions should commence between representatives of the area's arts
organizations, city officials, the library board, the business community, and other
organizations who have identified space needs that could be met by
redeveloping the existing library into a mixed-use facility. The existing library has
49,000 sq.ft. of space and much of it could easily be configured to accommodate
several different uses.
It is conceivable that first floor space fronting the pedestrian mall could be
converted into commercial space with a separate outside entrance, thus creating
an additional source of revenue to support the project. A considerable amount of
creativity and negotiation will be required to redevelop the building and optimize
the use of available space. The effort required may ultimately result in a mixed-
use facility that will become a valuable asset to the citizens of Iowa City. Again, a
cultural center in the existing library would create another traffic generator of
downtown Iowa City.
We urge all parties involved to be forward-thinking, Creative, and committed to
meeting various community needs while seeking out ways to minimize the
overall cost of an integrated vision for downtown redevelopment, the library, a
performance theater, and a cultural center.
Proposal re Use of Urban Renewal Parcel 64-1a and Present Library
Submitted by Dee Norton, 10/30/96
64-1a
A. Assumptions:
37,500 sq. ft. footprint
One below-grade floor
Seven upper floors
B. Proposed Uses
Lower level: ConE. Ctr. 37,500 sq. if.
1st floor
Aud./Thea. 18,000
Info/Gather. Ctr 6,500
Library lobby 5,000
Hotel lobby 2,000
Retail 6,000
2nd floor
Library 37,500
(Plus 3,000 sq. ft. Reading Room
in bridge over Fed Mall)
3rd floor Library 34,500
Retail/Office 3,000
4th floor Retail/Off/Hotel 37,500
5th floor Hotel 37,500
6th floor Hotel 37,500
7th floor Condos/Apts 37,500
C. Summary:
Private space 198,500
Public space 101,500
Combined: Private 235,000 (67%)
Public 1 13,000 (33%)
Present Library Bldg.
1st floor: 31,000 sq. ft.
2nd floor: 17,000 sq. ft.
Comm. Ctr. 3,000 sq. ft.
Retail/Rest. 28,000
VLA. 4,500
Mtg. Rms 4,000
Retail/Off 8,500
36,500
11,500