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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1995-02-14 Bd Comm minutesPlanning & Zoning Commission February 2, 1995 Page 2 ANNEXATION AND REZONING ITEM: ANN94-0009, REZ94-0018. Public discussion of a City-initiated annexation and rezoning of the proposed water treatment plant site, a 230 acre parcel located north of 1-80 and west of N. Dubuque Street from County A1, Rural, to P, Public. (Refer to the January 19, 1995, Planning and Zoning Commission packet.) Scott announc.ed that ANN94-0009, REZ94-0018, will be deferred to the April 6, 1995. Public discussion: There was none. Public discussion closed. MOTION: Jakobsen moved to defer ANN94-0009, REZ94-0018, to the April 6, 1995, meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission. BovbJerg seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 7-0. REZONING ITEMS: REZ94-0020. Public discussion of an application submitted by East Hill Subdivision, Inc. to rezone approximately 13.09 acres located at 655 Meadow Street from RM-12, Low Density Multi-Family Residential, and RS-5, Low Density Single-Family Residential, to RS-8, Medium Density Single-Family Rssideptial. (45.day limitation period extended to February 2, 1995) (Refer to the January 19, 1995, Planning and Zoning Commission packet.) Kugler said the Commission had asked a number of questions at the January 19 meeting regarding various aspects of this rezoning, including previous development proposals on the site, existing traffic volumes both north and south of the access point to this develop- ment, the possibility of secondary access, and why the location of the access on the concept plan might be the preferred location. Kugler said staff was unable to locate any record of a previous development proposal filed for this site that proposed access along Meadow Street. Information was found regarding proposed development on a portion of this site with access onto Muscatine Avenue, and there is some indication that a development may have been proposed on the RS-5 portion of the subject site, but never formally filed with the City. Staff has also researched the history of the Oakes Meadows development, which includes the properties along Dover Street immediately east of this site, hoping to find some information regarding the East Hill site andJor information regarding the decisions that have led to the present development pattern in this area. Kugler said an application was filed in 1977 by Alvin Streb for a Planned Area Develop- ment (PAD) to allow a 72 unit apartment or condominium complex on the western parcel of this site (shaded in light gray on tl3e location map). The proposal included one access onto Muscatine Avenue. The staff report indicated concern that the proposed PAD would result in an increase in the number of dwelling units allowed with no provisions for any Planning & Zoning Commission February 2, 1995 Page 3 usable open space within the development, Other than a stormwater retention basin, the whole site was occupied by either parking or buildings. The Planning and Zoning Com- mission denied the proposal and the project was never developed. Kugler said staff also had discussions with Doug Boolhroy, Director of the Department of Housing and Inspection Services, who was a member of the planning staff in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Boothrey recalls a development proposal by Dean Jones to develop the portion of this site that is currently zoned RS-5 (shown in black on the location map). The main point of contention with the surrounding property owners, as Boothrey recalls, was the fact that Jones intended to reroute Ralston Creek to the north so that it would have run along his northern property line and closer to the homes along Friendship Street. Boothroy did not recall increased traffi.c being a concern and felt if it was it was overshadowed by the concerns over the relocation of the creek. No information regarding this proposal could be found in the files of either the City Clerk or the Department of Planning and Community Development. Boothroy indicated that the discussions may have been preliminary discussions and with Jones and the neighborhood, and a formal petition may never have been filed. Kugler said another concern expressed at the Janua~/19 meeting was in regard to incremental street planning and why the surrounding property was allowed to develop in such a manner that resulted in this property having only one access point. In reviewing the file for the preliminary plat of the Oakes Meadows Addition, located along Dover Street, it was discovered that the possible development of this site was contemplated by the staff and reported to the Commission. In the staff report dated October 6, 1977, it was noted that only one means of access, from Meadow Street, was to be provided for the Oakes Meadows subdivision; at the time no connection from Dover Street to Muscatine Avenue was being proposed by the developer. It was reported in the staff report that "this access (off of Meadow Street and heading south) would also necessarily serve ahy development in the future of the R1A area directly to the west", referring to the East Hill site. Because of this access situation for both areas, a secondary access to Muscatine Avenue was required, instead of a proposed cul-de-sac. In addition, the staff report stated that "provisions need to be made in this subdivision (Oakes Meadows Addition) for extension of a street west into the undeveloped R1A area (the East Hill tract). This street should intersect with Meadow Street extended (now Dover Street) at a point approximately 450 feet from the intersection of Brookside Drive and Meadow Street. This would have provided a second access for the East Hill site. The subdivision was eventually approved with a secondary access to Muscatine Avenue, but for some reason no provision for an access street to the East Hill site was required. Therefore, the East Hill site was left with only the single point of access. Regarding traffic volumes, Kugler said the City Traffic Engineer attempted to get some indication of traffic volume on the streets surrounding the entrance to the proposed development. The only day the Traffic Engineer was able to attain full 24-hour counts was on Tuesday, January 31, 1995. Counts were obtained at two locations. The traffic counts on Dover Street, 450 north of Muscatine Avenue, showed a total of 790 vehicles, which was broken down into 423 vehicles south bound and 367 north bound. At another location just south of Brookside Street on Meadow Street, the counts were 319 south bound and 361 north bound, for a total of 680 vehicles. Kugler said he had talked with Traffic Engineer, Jim Brachtel, and said Brachtel had noted that there is going to be a potential for conflicts at any interseclion, which is unavoidable. However, he did not feel Planning & Zoning Commission February 2, 1995 Page 4 that this case posed a significant increase.in dsk, even when the hill and the offset intersection are taken into consideration. Kugler said another question raised by the Commission was in regard to the possibility of a second access being provided through the Memory Gardens property to the west, Kugler said the developer had submitted a plat which indicates that most of the area where a possible drive could be put through already has cemetery plots on the site. It does not seem realistic to expect to be able to locate a roadway through this area. In regards to the proposed location of the entrence drive along Meadow Street, Kugler said that the City Engineer feels that an alignment of Perry Court that would result in a "T" intersection with Meadow Street is not an ideal situation. During winter months, vehicles traveling south on Meadow Street may experience preblems traveling up this hill if forced to stop at this intersection near the top of the hill. Moving the entrence read the other direction, farther north and lower on the hill than the concept plan depicts would provide no increase in safety or sight distance, and at some point would begin to conflict with the intersection of Meadow Street and Brookside Drive. Locating the entrance read farther to the north would also result in the loss of some proposed lots. Since it would provide no increase in safety there is no justification to requiring the relocation of the entrance street to the north and thereby limiting the use of this portion of the preperty. Kugler also wished the Commission to keep in mind that discussions about the actual design and layout of the proposed development are not pertinent to the discussion of a rezoning, but should be addressed when an actual development plan is submitted through the site plan or subdivision review process. Kugler said a question was also raised regarding the load limit on the Meadow Street bridge. Kugler said the bridge has a 10-ton load limit and would restrict some emergency vehicles, such as fire trucks, from using this reute. Kugler pointed out that this site would be served by the district 3 fire station which is based south of this site, and may not need to use this bridge. Kugler noted that the bridge farther east of the site on east Brookside Drive currently has a 5-ton load limit, but is scheduled for replacement in the next fiscal year and would then allow access of fire vehicles from the north. Kugler said staff continues to recommend that REZ94-0020, a request to rezone 13.0.9 acres located west of Dover Street, north of Muscatine Avenue, be approved subject to the dedication of the Ralston Creek floodplain to the City, including an access easement between the proposed Cascade Court and the floodplain, and conditioned upon a restric- tion on the totsl number of dwelling units to 72 unless secondary access is provided. Gibson asked what the generally allowable traffic counts are for a local street and a collector street. Kugler said this depends on which standard is used. Kugler said the Comprehensive Plan provides some guidelines which are aimed at limiting traffic volumes on local streets to below 1,000 vehicle trips per day, and 5,000 vehicle trips per day for a collector street. Kugler said Dover street is built to local street standards, although it functions as a minor collector. Kugler said he had discussions with Jeff Davidson of JCCOG, who feels that Ihe area is somewhat unique, as Dover Street is connected to Muscatine Avenue to the south, which is an arterial, and Friendship Street to the north, which is a collector. Dierks asked at what point the former R1A development proposal had planned to connect onto Muscatine Avenue. Kugler said he believes it is through the point where the AAA Travel and Insurance Agency now exists. Planning & Zoning Commission February 2, 1995 Page 5 Gibson referred to the single access vehicle counts and pointed out that the counts for this proposal, in addition to the counts obtained on Tuesday, January 31, assuming that half of the drivers from the East Hill site go north and half go south, still do not appear to top the guidelines for local streets, although Gibson acknowledged the counts would be very near the recommended 1,000 vehicle trips per day limit. Kugler added that they may actually exceed this guideline a bit, but that it is just a guideline and not a hard and fast requirement. There was some discussion regarding procedures and what is likely to happen should this rezoning request be denied, and Holecek pointed out that should the allowable density not be lowered, as proposed in this application, this is tantamount to saying that the parcel is appropriate for development at the current density level. Scott said that on the second public discussion an attempt is made to limit public com- ments, therefore, those who wish to speak will be limited to three minutes on the first go around, and after everyone who wishes has had a chance to speak, discussion on the second go around will be limited to one minute per speaker, and one minute for each round thereafter. Public discussion: Nicholas Chmaruk, 909 Dover Street, said several individuals had asked him to speak on their behalf as a neighborhood advocate, some of which were unable to attend the meeting tonight, one due to health reasons. Scott said that if Chmaruk had something written from these individuals to this effect, he will allow him to use their time, otherwise those who wish to yield their time to Chmaruk must indicate this desire. Chmaruk read into the record a letter dated February 2, 1995, which was submitted to staff and the Planning and Zoni~g Commission at this time. Jim Uinqus, 2701 Friendship Street, and Deborah Jel3son, 930 Dover Street, yielded their time to Chmaruk throughout the reading of this letter. Scott noted that by yielding their time they will not be recognized to speak later. No objection was noted. Chmaruk added an addendum to the reading of the letter that stated that information provided by the Iowa Department of Transportation over the last three years indicates a 20% increase in seasonal traffic volume. Chmaruk said that in recent discussions with Jim Brachtel, Brachtel had indicated that in the summer there is more traffic as people will avoid windy, precarious roads with a grade during the winter. Chmaruk also noted his traffic figures fo~ local and collector streets, which are provided by the Institute for Traffic Engineers and stated in his letter, differ with the Comprehensive Plan figures quoted by Kugler. Chmaruk displayed a road map for the area and stated that the house on the corner of Perry Court that blocks the line of vision, the curve on Perry Court, and the 9.6% road grade on Meadow Street, together pose a safety risk, especially in emergency situations with emergency vehicles attempting to navigate the curve st high rates of speed. Several members of the Commission pointed out that these are existing conditions and will not change with this proposal. Kugler pointed out that earlier that day Public Works had examined the grade of Meadow Street south of Brookside Drive and found the grade to be approximately 8% at the point of the access. Gibson asked if staff had attained a Planning & Zoning Commission February 2, 1995 Page 6 definitive statement from either the City Fire Marshall or the Fire Chief opposing this proposal. Kugler said he had talked Andy Rocca several times over the last few days about the single access and bridge issues, but Rocca chose not to comment at this time and wished to reserve comment until an actual development proposal is submitted. Scott agreed with Gibson that a definitive answer from Rocca is needed, but did not feel it was necessary until the time a subdivision proposal had been submitted. Richard S. Rhodes, 2044 Rochester Avenue, in regards to the dedication of the open space on the north side of the site, said he had suggested that the developer contribute toward the construction of a trail east and west through this area that would access the green areas farther east, and the commercial areas to the west. Rhodes said that staff had indicated that this issue was not appropriate for a Conditional Zoning Agreement. Rhodes attained a copy of the Conditional Zoning Agreement for the Windsor Ridge development and said that point 4B in this CZA (in brief) says that the developer is required to dedicate a ceriain amount of open space to the City, and a certain amount of open space that is to be developed as a greenway trail linking with Scott Park. Using the term loosely, Rhodes feels there is a rational nexus which requires that developers provide accessways, both vehicular and for pedestrian traffic, from their residential areas to existing areas of the city. Rhodes feels this type of pedestrian access would be very appropriate in this case as the east.west access will assist school children and others going from commercial development and the proposed Eagle's store to the west, to greenways and schools to the east. Rhodes strongly urged that the Commission to attempt to negotiate with the developer to accept some contribution for a trail within the dedicated ground and within the floodplain. Gene Kree~er, 320 Willis Drive, partner in the East Hill subdivision, wished to point out that this application is a downzoning, more than a rezoning. Kreeger said his engineers and City staff have been discussing this site and the most apprepdate density for more than a year. Kroeger said he will attempt to meet all City standards throughout the entire process. Kroeger feels a viable density and a development proposal that would be most compatible with the surrounding residential neighborhood had been selected for the East Hill site. Scott referred to page two of Chmaruk's letter, and Frank and Lorena Taubefs comments. Kroeger said this statement is correct, that the deed includes the area behind the AAA Travel and Insurance Agency, but ends at the Tauber property. The 900 feet to the north are not included. Scott said he takes exception to the staff indication that trail development and dedication of land should not be discussed until the subdivision level, as he knows that trail develop- ment has been discussed at the rezoning level on numerous occasions. Miklo said he would not disagree with that, but given that the City is not sure at this point whether it will be able to attain the right-of-way to the west, or east for that matter, it may be premature to start this line of discussion. Miklo said this site is different from most in that it is an (in-city) development which is already built up on all sides. Scott asked Kreeger whether he would be willing to participate with the City in discussions for the development and installation of a trail in the Ralston Creek floodplain, at a shared cost. Kroeger said he certainly cannot provide an open check until he knows the particulars, but he would be willing to participate in discussions regarding possible development and installalion of a trail in the Ralston Creek floodplain. However, Kreeger cautiously referred to a 13 acre Planning & Zoning Commission February 2, 1995 Page 7 dedication of land for park and open space development made in December of 1993 for the Park West development that to date remains undeveloped. Krueger said it is also incumbent upon the City to follow through on what is demanded of the developer. Both Miklo and Denney said staff feels it is premature to discuss trail development on this site and at this time. Rhodes wished to say that he has heard reference to the proposed trail as both a recre- ational trail and a nature trail, but Rhodes did not regard it as either, but rather an essen- tial pedestrian accessway between the development, schools, greenways and commemial zones. Rhodes said there is an easement already in existence for a trail along the creek on the Towncrest property. Rhodes feels this trail development is not as premature as staff maintains. Chmaruk requested that opinions be attained from the Fire Marshall and the Traffic Engineer, as to whether the access point is the desired point of access, prior to a vote. Scott guaranteed this information will be attained throughout, if not before, discussions at the subdivision level. Public discussion closed. MOTION: Bovbjerg moved to approve REZ94-0020, an application submitted by East Hill Subdivision, Inc. to rezone approximately 13.09 acres located at 655 Meadow Street from RM-12, Low Density Multi-Family Residential, and RS-5, Low Density Single-Family Residential, to RS-8, Medium Density Single. Family Reetden- tlal, subject to the foll(Jwlng conditions: 1) dedication of the Ralston Creek flood- plain to the City, Including an access easement between the proposed Cascade Court and the floodplain, 2) a restriction on the total number of dwelllng units to 72 unless secondary access is provided, and 3) that the developer participate with the City In the development and installation of a trail along the dedicated portion of the Ralston Creek floodplain. Starr seconded. Bovbjerg said she has read the formal protests and kept a tally of all the points mentioned in the letters. Bovbjerg said every petition does mention traffic level concerns and that she has both walked and driven the area and can understand the fear of the residents. However, Bovbjerg said she would not care to see how area would be should the Com- mission not approve this downzoning. Bovbjerg feels that should the site develop this is a wiser choice than that of the current zoning. Bovbjerg said she would like to see some of the concerns addressed as this development progresses. Dierks agreed with Bovbjerg, and compared the traffic concerns to her neighborhood, the Harlocke/Weeber neighborhood. Dierks said her preference would be to zone this property RS-5, although RS-8 is certainly more acceptable than the present zoning., Dierks referred to comments made by Holecek, that the City would be hard-pressed to not accept a proposal for the current density should this pmpossl for a lower density be denied. Cooper agreed with Bovbjerg and Dierks, and said he feels the residents would probably much rather preference this alternative, as opposed to apartment buildings. Planning & Zoning Commission Feb~.~ary 2, 1995 Page 8 Gibson said he had read both the petitions and the letter used to make the case to the neighbors, and said that nearly all of the petitions argue the case against development, period, and not the issue of downzoning. Gibson read a statement from Chmaruk's letter which says, "therefore, one could conclude that under current zoning development would not occur." Gibson said one could certainly conclude this, but it would not be a logical conclusion. Gibson said he firmly believes that an RS-8 zoning, instead of an RS-12 zoning, is more appropriate for the site, and that he firmly, believes he is on the side of the neighbors in voting this way. Starr agreed with everything mentioned. Starr did ask whether some of the on-street. parking regulations on Friendship and Dover Streets could be examined to alleviate some of the congestion. Miklo said one of the difficulties is that many of the units, on Dover Street, e.g., were built with one-car garages which leaves little room elsewhere for park- ing. Miklo said one advantage to this is that the more parking on the streets, the slower traffic travels. Kugler said Bovbjerg mentioned this just today, so he talked to the traffic engineer, who indicated that there was a proposal at one time in which neighborhood residents were asked whether they would be open to such a proposal. Kugler said most had objected to this proposal. It is not fair to place this inconvenience on the existing residents for the benefit of the new development. Scott said two issues he feels should be addressed in order to alleviate some of the congestion are parking and/or utilization and installation of stop signs. Scott requested input on these issues from staff at the subdivision level. Jakobsen added the intersections of Friendship Street at First Avenue, and Dover Street at Muscatine Avenue, and whether more traffic control is needed, should also be addressed at that time. Jakobsen said that from a purely planning point of view. it is better to have a development within the City, than undergoing an annexation procedure. Jakobsan said that although her primary reason for acceptance of this proposal is due to the downzoning factor, she can't help but to feel that development of an (in-city) site should occur before more land is annexed, Jakobsen said that should the neighborhood wish to keep the site open, they can purchase it. The motion carried on a vote of 7-0. The Commission took a recess from 8:58 to 9:03 p.m. REZ95-0001. Public discussion of an application submitted by James and Nancy Kestel to fezone an 8,075 square foot lot located at 202 Douglas Street from RS-8, Medium Density Single-Family Residential, to C1-1, Intensive Commercial. (45-day limitation period: February 27, 1995) Scott announced that this item has been withdrawn by the applicant. Public discussion: There was none. Public discussion closed.. Planning & Zoning Commission February 2, 1995 Page 9 MOTION: The motion carried on a vote of 7-0. REZ95-0002. Public discussion of an application submitted by Chandler Signs, Inc. to amend the Conditional Zoning Agreement for 1069 Highway 1 (Westport Plaza) to allow an additional freestanding pylon sign. (45-day limitation period: February 27, 1995) Miklo said that when Westport Plaza was approved under a Conditional Zoning Agree- ment, (CZA) several restrictions were put on the property above and beyond the regular Community Commemial, CC-2, zoning. Miklo said the CZA was entered into by the City in agreement with the developer, because of the concern that this is a major entryway into the City. Miklo said the City'e Comprehensive Plan states that entryways should result in attractive development, Miklo said the developer had also presented Westport Plaza as not just any strip shopping center, but an integrated development with limited signage and visual clutter. Staff feels to amend the CZA to allow an additional freestanding sign would be counter to the policy of encouraging an attractive appearance of this entryway to the city, and would be counter to the development plan submitted by the applicant at the time the City rezoned the property. Miklo said the Conditional Zoning Agreement restricts the overall shopping center develop- ment to two freestanding signs and that these signs could accommodate the main anchors of the shopping centera, as well as the some of the smaller tenants that might come along at a later date. In addition to these freestanding signs, all of the tenants within the development are allowed other forms of signage, including facia signs, monument signs, window signs and canopy signs. Staff feels that the sign options available to each business wilhin the shopping center am generous and should be sufficient to allow the general public to identity each business. In a broader sense, Miklo said staff is also concerned that the City not make piece meal amendments counter to the original intent of Conditional Zoning Agreements. In some cases it is possible that the City would not approve requested rszonings unless the applicant's and property owners had agreed to specifics in a Conditional Zoning Agree- ment. Unless there is compelling mason to amend a Conditional Zoning Agreement, such as a change in City policy, staff believes they should be adhered to as closely as possible. Otherwise, the conditional zoning process would be undermined, as applicants would agree to conditions in order to get favorable approval of their rezonings, and then would at a later date come in and request that those conditions be removed. Miklo said in this particular case them appears to be no compelling mason to amend the specifics of the Westport Plaza Conditional Zoning Agreement. The zoning agreement as it stands allows the business ml~msented by the applicant a generous allocation for signage. To amend the Conditional Zoning Agreement to allow additional signage would be counter to the intent of minimizing the stdp commemial appearance of Westport Plaza, Miklo said for these reasons staff recommends that the proposed amendment to the Westport Plaza Conditional Zoning Agreement be denied. Planning & Zoning Commission February 2, 1995 Page 10 Dierks asked that should an amendment be approved would the amendment follow the original CZA, or would the amendment get lost at some point. Miklo said any amend- ments would be in the file and open for review. Public discussion: Abel Oberqon, San Antonio, Texas representative of Chandler Signs, Inc. said his compa- ny has been asked by their clients, Red Lobster Restaurants, to seek this amendment to the Conditional Zoning Agreement. Obergon said this request is based on the following: one, the proposed sign is within City Code requirements with respect to height and square footage. Second, the unique design is a registered Irademark for General Mills, or more specifically, Red Lobster Restaurants, and is recognized throughout the United States. Third, the building facia signage shown on the plot will not adequately address the Highway 1. Obergon said the sign will be parallel to Highway 1, therefore, it will not be adequately seen from either direction on Highway 1. Obergon said his client feels this will create an undue hardship. And fourth, Obergon said his client has purchased this parcel of land and has secured written endorsement for the proposed sign from Wal-Mart, Weslport Limited Partnership, and the Morris Family Corporation. In regards to the existing signs staff refers to as ample or generous, Obergon said the Cub Foods sign is not able to be utilized by his client as there is already another sign below the Cub Foods sign and it is not feasible to add Red Lobster% to it. Obergon does not feel the post presently utilized by Wal-Mart will support any more weight. Obergon feels a monument sign would be largely ineffective as the structure lies well below the Highway. Scott asked if the sign could be altered in any manner such that it may qualify for a facia sign on the building. Obergon said that the building as it is designed now is part of their trademark and the signs are the way lhey are being done throughout the country. Starr said that the Highway 1 area is particularly sensitive as to how development is to prog- ress, The majority of the Commission members said they look forward to the opening of the restaurant. Obergon said it is tentatively planned to open on May 15, 1995. Public discussion closed. MOTION: Dlerks moved to deny REZ96-0002, an application submitted by Chandler Signs, Inc. to amend the Conditional Zoning Agreement for 1069 Highway I (Weet- port Plaza) to allow an additional freestanding pylon sign, Jakobeen seconded. Dierks said that the Highway 1 entryway into the City is particularly sensitive to develop- ment and that this subject was thoroughly examined when the signage for Westport Plaza was reviewed. Dierks feels to add more signage would be contrary to the previous decision. Dierks added that she does not feel people will have any trouble locating or remembering the location of the Red Lobster as people have been looking forward to one coming to Iowa City for a long time. Gibson said the sign does not trouble him, but amending a previous decision and facing the consequences of this revision would seriously trouble him. Gibson said for this reason Planning &Zoning Commission February 2,1995 Page 11 alone he would reject the proposal. Gibson said it is even interesting that it is not the developer himself in here asking for this amendment, rather it has been bumped to two or three parties removed from the developer. Scott noted that the original owners had sold the properly to Wal-Mart, although Wai. Mart had agreed to and signed the CZA. Scott said when signage for this location was original- ly discussed, he recalls discussion of the need for cooperation between and amongst the various uses, because originally there was talk of a significant unified development with Wal-Mart and a grocery store as an anchor, and the two outlots of which Red Lobster has taken one, all in a sort of mall setting. Scott said he agrees with Gibson in that there would need to be compelling reason to accept an override. The motion carried on a vote of 7-0. DEVELOPMENT ITEM: SUB94-0016. Public discussion of an application submitted by David Larson for prelimi- nary plat approval of D&L Subdivision, 6.41 acre, four lot commercial subdivision located on the south side of Highway 1 West, west of Sunset Street. (45-day limitation period: February 13, 1995) (Refer to the January 19, 1995, Planning and Zoning Commission packet.) Denney said the Commission had asked several of questions at the January 19 meeting concerning Lot 1 and whether it possesses the potential for development. Der,ney said staff had examined this and found the lot contains approximately 7,500 square feet of buildable area, and that this could support a building of up to about 2,000 square feet. Denney said the applicant has submitted a drawing of how such a building might fit on the lot and while there are some constraints identified by the applicant, staff feels the site could support a small office or retail use. Denney said staff continues to recommend approval of SUB94-0016, the preliminary plat of the D&L Subdivision, subject to approval of preliminary stormwater calculations and the Grading and Erosion Control Plan by the Public Works Department prior to City Council consideration of the plat. Holecek said the Gibson had requested some specific language regarding the develop- ment viability of Lot 1. Holecek said lhis can be addressed by either a note on the plat, or the motion could contain some language with a reservation concerning Lot 1. Holecek suggested some language along the lines of, "the pamel designated as Lot 1 may be limited in its development potential due to topography, existing easements, and applicable building requirements." Holecek suggested that if the intent is to notify buyers of these limitations of Lot 1, she feels the best approach would be a note on the plat. Gibson agreed and asked that the motion indicate this desire. Public discussion: There was none. Public discussion closed. Planning & Zoning Commission February 2, 1995 Page 12 MOTION..' Bovbjerg moved to approve SUB94-0016, an application submitted by David Larson for preliminary plat approval of D&L Subdivision, 6.41 acre, four lot commercial subdivision located on the south side of Highway I West, west of Sunset Street, subject to approval of preliminary stormwater calculations and the Grading and Erosion Control Plan by the Public Works Department prior to City Council consideration of the plat, and that a note be attached tothe plat stating that t~e pamel designated as lot 1 may be limited In Its development potential due to topography, existing easements, and applicable building requirements. Starr seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 7-0. CODE AMENDMENT ITEM: Public discussion of an ordinance amending City Code Title 14, Chapter 5, entitled "Building and Housing," Article H, entitled "Site Plan Review," by adopting design guide- lines for exterior stairwells and exterior corridors on multi-family residential buildings. Scott said that as this item is still in review by the Design Review Committee and the Board of Appeals, and that this item will be deferred to the February 16, 1995. meeting. Public discussion: There was none. Public discussion closed. MOTION.: Bovbjerg moved to defer this Item, an ordinance amending City Code Title 14, Chapter 6, entitled "Building and Housing," Article H, entitled "Site Plan Review," until the February 16, 1995, meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commis- sion. Gibson seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 7-0. CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES OF THE DECEMBER 15, 1994, AND JANUARY 19, 1995, PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION MEETINGS: MOTION: Jakobsen moved to approve the minutes of the December 15, 1994, meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission, as amended. Starr seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 7-0. MOTION: Dlerks moved to approve the minutes of the January 19, 1995, meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission, as corrected at Monday night's Informal meeting. Jakobsen seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 7-0. PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION INFORMATION: Miklo said the Rules Committee of the City Council has asked the opinion of the Planning and Zoning Commission concerning Cily Boards and Commissions in that some of the boards and commissions find that they need expertise that is not available from citizens within Iowc City and Planning & Zoning Commission Februa~ 2, 1995 Page 13 allow appointments from Johnson County as a whole, and not just Iowa City. The Rules Commit- tee would like to know if the Planning and Zoning Commission finds that this is a concern, or whether the Commission requests that all appointments be Iowa City citizens. MOTION: Jakobsan moved to send the recommendation to the City Council that the Plarmlng and Zoning Commission does not see any reason for a change in the by-laws concerning City Boards and Commission membership. Dlerks seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 7-0. Oierks asked staff to check and see if Menard's is fully in compliance with the screening require- ments of the Conditional Zoning Agreement. Ulklo said staff will check it out. Miklo submitted a letter from Karen Kubby, dated February 1, 1995, explaining her reasoning for voting against the Greenview proposal, Jakobsen said she will be absent from the next informal meeting on February 13, 1995, Jakobsen also noted that Scott and she had switched Council meeting dates. Scott will attend the next Council meeting and Jakobsen will attend the Mamh 27 meeting, Gibson said he is likely to be absent from both the next informal and formal meetings, Bovbjerg thanked staff for all their hard work and additional work recently. OTHER BUSINESS: There was none. ADJOURNMENT: MOTION: BovbJerg moved to adjourn at 9:40 p,m, Dlerks seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 7-0. George Starr, Secretary Minutes submitted by Jeff Haring, rnins~p&z02-02 IOWA CITY PLA/qNING AND ZONING C0~I~ZSSZON I~EETING T~URSDAY~ FEBRUARY 2~ 1995 - 7:30 P.~. CZVIC CENTERCOUNCIL CHAMBERS Address 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19o 20, 21. 22. 23° MINUTES PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION JANUARY 11, 1995 PRELIMINARY Subject to Approval MEMBERS PRESENT: John Beasley, Judith Klink, Deb Liddell, Matt Pacha, John Pelton, Rex Pruess, Dee Vanderhoef MEMBERS ABSENT: Jana Egeland, Bruce Maurer GUESTS PRESENT: Karin Franklin, Director of Planning and Community Development, Mike Gatens, and one individual who did not sign in STAFF PRESENT: Blanchard, Carroll, Coffin, Howell, Kriz, Moran, Norin, Trueblood FORMAL ACTION TAKEN: Moved by Pacha. seconded by Liddell. to a/~prove the minutes of the December 14. 1994 meeting as amended. Unanimous. Moved by Pacha. seconded byLiddell. to a~prove Option C of the Swimming Pool Fee Options for FY96-98 as proposed and presented by staff. Ayes: Beasle~. Klink, Liddell. Pacha, Pruess. Vanderhoef..Nays: Pelton. Moved by Pacha, seconded by Beasley, to approve the Recreation Division Fees and Charges, Proposed for F¥96, and Tentative Proposals for FY97-98 as proposed and presented by staff. Unanimous. Moved by Liddell. seconde~ by Pacha, to appoint John Pelton as the commission's representative on the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission for 1995. Ayes: Beaslsy, Klink, Liddell, Pacha. Pruess, Vanderhoef. Abstention: Pelton. MINUTES: PUBLIC DISCUSSION: Klink stated the minutes of the December 14, 1994 meeting should reflect the correct date; the date of January 11, 1995 is incorrect. Moved by Pacha. seconded b3Liddell, to approv~ the minutes of the December 14. 1994 meeting as amended. Unanimous. Mike Gatens, 2045 Dubuque Road, addressed the commission with respect to lack of indoor recreational space in Iowa City. He stated he was representing many citizens of Iowa City who feel the city needs more gym space, and asked where it was on the commission's priority list. Vanderhoef indicated expansion of the Recreation Center and the Mercer Park Aquatic Center were high prioritips on the commission's priority list. Beasley questioned whether the Mercer Park Aquatic Center was designed to accommodate future expansion, with Trueblood stating it was designed to allow expansion of the facility to the north. Gatens stated he reads about paths, trails, and indoor skating rink, noting a need for paths and trails but that attention should be given to the number of people and usage when ranking priorities; additional gym space should be a higher priority. Gatens related a recent situation at South East Junior High School wherein he contacted the school to reserve space for a youth basketball team practice. He was told the Parks and Recreation Department had reserved both the gym and auxiliary room for volleyball and aerobics for 7 p.m. (Thursday, January 5), and his team could not have the space until afterwards. He stated when they went to South East Junior High School they discovered the department did not use either space; he stated the department should notify the schoolwhen they will not be using space it has reserved. (Subsequently, it was discovered that the department had neither requested nor scheduled use of the facility). Trueblood stated staff works with the School District's administration office in scheduling and cancelling use of school facilities. Gatens stated there is a great demand for space for indoor soccer and basketball programs which start in the 2nd grade, and when the Parks and Recreation Department has to use school facilities, Mr. Gatens feels it takes away space from youth, for whom the space was built. Liddell noted the Girls Softball Association's efforts were successful because there were groups of people not only saying their improvement project was important but raised money and volunteered efforts to get it accomplished. Gatens stated this was great but unfortunate, and felt there was a kink in the process if you have to bring money to the city to get things done. Beasley asked Gatens if a committee was formed to look at putting together more gym space if he would bewilling to serve on it, with Gatens stating he would be willing to do so. Gatens felt the additional gym space should be located on the east side of Iowa City, feeling the west side has enough gymnasiumspace. Liddell stated she was on the citizen task force for Parks, Recreation and Open Space, who created a vision statement for Iowa City and indoor facilities emerged as a very high priority. For clarification, Trueblood stated such things as trails and many other projects can be done without a referendum and with federal f~nding, noting indoor space grants were very few and hard to get. He stated the commission will begin having serious discussions in the upcoming months about indoor recreational space. He indicated under the seven year CIP plan there is a category "Projects IOWA CITY: BEYOND 2000 REPORT: Requiring Referendum", under which expansion of the Recreation Center or expansion of the Mercer Park Aquatic Center was listed as the number one priority. Gatens stated he felt the city would not have a problem in getting a 60% approval on a referendum for more gym space. Trueblood stated other things needed to be looked at, such as the possibility of other upcoming referendums, and the need for City Council's approval to hold a referendum. Another member of the publicwho did not identify himself stated he was a voice of the community at large. He stated indoor recreational space is a high priority, and it is very difficult to schedule in time and to find space given the City's existing facilities. Vanderhoef stated she appreciated Gatens comments and agreed the city needs more gym space and space for other programs. Beasley indicated he would contact Gatenswhen a committee is established to pursue additional indoor recreational facilities. Karin Franklin, Director of Planning and Community Development, addressed the commission with respect to the "Iowa City: Beyond 2000" report. She stated the report is the beginning of a process to re-evaluate the city's future, looking to what the city wants to be in the next decade. She stated the city put together a number of task forces to address various areas of the city, who came up with vision statements for each particular area. The report is a compilation of the work of the different task forces and an attempt to crystalize the vision for Iowa City. She stated the report is going to various boards and commissions who are being asked for any input they would like to bring to the document, for suggestions of areas not covered, or concurrence. These comments will be taken to the Planning and Zoning Commission, who has been given the responsibility of making a recommendation to the City Council on the City's comprehensive plan. After the City Council adopts the plan the city will begin working on implementation strategy, setting out specific ways to achieve the community as described by the report. She asked for input from the commission. Pruess noted lack of anything. on the Iowa River Corridor/Stanley Plan. Franklin stated some items were very specific to a particular area or project and those were removed and will be part of the next step, with these items being the basis for the overall plan that will carry it out. She stated staff did not want to get bogged dora9 in specifics at this point, wanting to be more general and visionary. Pruess also was concerned about the lack of references 3 RECREATION DIVISION FEES: throughout the report to technology and the city's role in encouraging expansion of communication, noting he was interested in encouraging expansion of communication with citizens being able to access information through their home computers; i.e., a library without walls. Franklin stated this was a feature included in the Library Strategic Plan, indicating she was not sure where she would include it elsewhere. Trueblood stated with respect to the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Task Force some items were omitted, such as fostering creative partnerships with neighborhood associations and expansion of cemetery space. Franklin stated these were specific items which would be part of the next phase. Pelton stated bikeways were mentioned and felt they were a potential solution to transportation problems, with Franklin stating alternative modes of transportation were included under the transportation section. Pelton stated he endorsed the process of developing a vision statement and having a long term plan for the city, and commended Iowa City for developing longer term plans. Franklin stated commission members could contact her at her office if they have any individual comments to make. Vanderhoef stated staff did a magnificent job culling from the original task forces and reorganizing it into a very readable docu]~ent. Trueblood stated that proposed increases in FY96 swimming fees are the only changes from the three-year document developed last year and updated this year. Staff prepared various options for the commission's consideration, specifically relating to swim passes. Trueblood reviewed the various options and what the result of each would be: Option A increased daily admissions by 25 cents and increased fees for punch cards and passes in a proportionate amount; Option B was the same as Option A but swim pass increases were phased in over a two year period; Option C would eliminate summer passes, replacing them with 3-month passes (request to consider 3-month passes coming from City Council); Option D was the same as Option C but with lower prices for 3- month passes, which would result in the projected revenue being reduced bY $7,600. He stated the proposed 3-month pass would be valid for approximately 13 weeks whereas the summer pass was valid from Memorial Day to Labor Day, a 14-week season, and the 3-month pass would be good for three months from date of purchase. Vanderhoef stated a Family Pass was a bargain, with Trueblood stating when the family pass was suggested, staff felt it should give a bargain to families to encourage family participation, noting even though %he Family Pass may be a bargain, not many of them are sold. Pacha asked staff which option they liked best, with Moran stating staff could live with 4 what they have now but if more flexibility is wanted by offering a 3-month pass, staff felt Option C would be the way to go. Trueblood stated the 3-month pass would be very user friendly. Moved by Pacha, seconded by Liddell, to approve option C of the Swimming Pool Fee Options for F¥96-98 as proposed and pre~ented by staff. Ayes:. Beasle¥, Klink, Liddell, Pacha, Pruess, Vanderhoef. Na¥sl pelton. The motion carried. Pelton stated he felt Option C was too expensive and would prefer Option D which had lower prices for the 3-month pass. He felt a 3-month pass made a lot of sense, letting people define their own summer. Pacha noted the drop in revenue if Option D was selected. Trueblood stated it was the Recreation Division's goal to have 45% of their budget supported by non-property tax revenue, noting with Option C the percentage would be 44.63% as opposed to 44.18% with Option D. Trueblood noted if City Council approves these fees, they would probably be implemented with the beginning of this year's summer season, meaning they would actually be implemented in F¥95. Trueblood asked for the commission's input with respect to the other fees and charges, with Pacha noting there were no changes made from last year's recommendations for FY96. Moved by Pacha. seconded by Beasley, to approve the Recreation Division Fees and Charges, Proposed for F¥96. and Tentative Proposals for E¥97-98 as proposed and presented by staff. Unanimous. Trueblood stated the fees would be forwarded to the City Council for final approval. APPOINTMENTS: Vanderhoef stated John Pelton was willing to serve as the commission's representative on the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission for 1995. Moved by Liddell. secondedby Pacha. to appoint John Pelton as the com~ission's representative on the Riverfront and Natural Areas commission for 1995. Ayes: Beasley, Klink, Liddell, Pacha. Pruess, Vanderhoef. Abstention: Pelton. The motion carried. The following committee/commissions appointments were made by Chair Vanderhoef: Parks and Recreation Foundation: John Beasley, Jana Egeland, Bruce Maurer, and Matt Pacha. Beasley and Pacha stated they were willing to serve as co-chairs. Pacha stated the foundation could undertake additional indoor recreational space as a project, setting up a sub- committee. Pacha questioned the approximate time it would take from initiation of a project to the actual referendum, with Trueblood stating they would need to hire a consultant to do the design work and the City 5 DEPARTSlENT ' S REDED BUDGET: Council would need to approve money for same; from that point to a referendum would take at least one year. Vanderhoef asked the foundation to put something together as far as a sub-committee, bringing same back to the commission for approval. Neighborhood Open Space Action Plan Committee: Judith Klink, Deb Liddell, Rex Pruess, Dee Vanderhoef, and two members from the original NOS committee, Ann Bovbjerg and John Watson. Trueblood stated budget review sessions with the City Council have begun, but the budget will not be adopted until late February or early March. He gave a summary of what is/is not being recommended for approval by the City Manager. The major item discussed was that the request for a net increase of 1.5 permanent employees for the Parks Division is not recommended for approval. Liddell asked if it was time for the commission to go to the City Council, noting the department's recommended budget looks good, but the city cannot keep getting parkland without budgeting money for additional staff to maintain it. Beasley stated he thought the commission sent a message to the City Council that if the Neighborhood Open Space Plan. and Ordinance were passed and adopted, the City Council would need to make a commitment to provide necessary funding and personnel to adequately maintain the open space/parkland acquired. Vanderhoef stated this concern came up at numerous public hearings on the open space plan. Trueblood stated over the past eight years the amount of parkland has increasedby 40%, with staff only increasing by 5%. He stated it might not be as critical to have additional staff this next year as it would be in the next two to three years as more and more parkland is acquired. Pelton asked if the new employee recommended for the Forestry Division could be shared with the Parks Division. Trueblood stated this particular position is being funded by road use tax funds which means this employee has to spend his/her time working in right-of-ways, meaning street trees. He stated the various divisions help each other now, but it would become easier to do so when a central maintenance facility is constructed. Pruess felt it was important to approach the City Council with respect to the recommended budget. Trueblood stated an evening is set aside for boards and commissions to address the City Council, and he would let the commission know when it was scheduled. Liddell noted as parks grow the Forestry Division's budget will also need to grow, as well as programs° Trueblood stated he would send a summary of the seven year CIP budget to the commission, when he completes it. MARCH MEETING: COMMISSION TIME: After discussion it was decided the March commission meeting would be moved to the first Wednesday in March (March lst). Pacha welcomed Judith Klink and Rex Pruess to the commission. He asked how the ice rinks at Mercer Park were doing, with Trueblood stating the ice skating group seems to be pleased with how things are going. Pacha askedwho was paying for the water and lights at the ice rinks in Mercer Park, with Trueblood stating the city is and volunteers are flooding and maintaining the ice. Klink thought Nancy Seiberling's letter with respect to the department's brochure was very well taken. She stated she had received a complaint about the money spent on the brochure. She noted it would be nice to use electronic media to disseminate information on our programs, with people being able to access it on their home computers when they need to, referring to Pruess' point on technology. Moran stated a diskette of the brochure is provided to Cable T.V., and this information can be accessed and reviewed on the government access channel. Pruess indicated he was enjoying his first meeting and was looking forward to serving on the commission. Liddell encouraged Klink and Pruess to share any information or news they receive from the school or FIRST with the commission at commission meetings, noting it was a good time to do so. Liddell referred to the Citizens Summary of the budget and asked why income from the hotel/motel tax had been $427,000 but estimated revenue for next year is $400,000, and what fund the interest accrued was deposited in. Trueblood stated interest wentinto the city's general fund, with 25% of the amount received from the hotel/motel tax going towards parks and recreation (15% to the Mercer Park Aquatic Center and 10% to the Parkland Fund). He didn't know the reason for the reduced income estimate. Liddell asked how. Ralph Sedlacek was doing since his accident at City Park, with Howell indicating he was doing well and was back to work. As far as the tractor which fell into the pond, it was removed and it appears repair costs won't be too bad. Vanderhoef stated she was interested in receiving the Heritage Tree Inventory and receiving a quick update. Vanderhoef referred to the Recreation Division's monthly DIRECTOR'S REPORT: ADJOURNMENT: report where it was indicated the adult volleyball season was extended into Christmas break. Moran stated the season had to be extended one week, which ran into the Christmas break week, because South East Junior High School was unavailable at the beginning of the season. Trueblood reported on the following: Department's Brochure. A letter sent to the City Manager from Nancy Seiberling was shared with the commission. A similar letter was sent to staff. Seiberling expressed her pleasure with the outstanding graphic presentation throughout the brochure and especially on the cover by Mary Gail Bentz. Trueblood informed the commission about a recent editorial on KXIC which stated the city of Iowa City has a "champagne and caviar taste", referring to the magnets sent out by the water division and the department's brochure which they felt was wasteful and could be done much less costly. The editorial stated the brochure cost $60,000 per year to produce; this was in error. The brochure costs approximately $50,000 per year which, in terms of cost per brochure per resident, equals 80 to 85 cents per year (3 brochures per year). Staff has received many positive comments and very few complaints about thebrochure. One complaint received on occasion is someone who does not use the brochure, asking if there is some way we could refrain from sending it to them. Brochures are sent via bulk mail and the Post Office's bulk mailing policy is that delivery is made to all residences. Klink asked what the cost was to mail each brochure, with Moran stating it had been approximately 15 cents but was unsure what it would cost with the new postal rate increase. CDBG/HOME Funding Programs. A memo from the Community Development Division was distributed indicating the Committee on Community Needs and the Housing Commission are beginning their annual solicitation of proposals for funding through these programs. The deadline for receiving funding requests is Friday, February 10. Trueblood stated the department has not submitted any proposal for the past three to four years because it has become very difficult for our projects to fall under their criteria, priorities and objectives. Trueblood asked commission members to contact him with any possible projects that might qualify for this program. Moved by Pacha, seconded by Beasley, to adjourn. Unanimous. The meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m. MINUTES COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY NEEDS WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 1994 - 6:30 P.M. IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY, MEETINO ROOM A MEMBERS PRESENT: MaryAnn Dennis, Rusty Martin, Christina Randall, Linda Murray, Lisa Engh, Marie Snider, Jim Harris, John Falb, Oretchen Schmuch MEMBERS ABSENT: Orace Cooper, Keith Ruff PUBLIC PRESENT: Sill Snider STAFF PRESENT: Marianne Milkman, Steve Long Call to Order Chairperson Dennis called the meeting to order at 6:30 P.M. REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM OCTOBER 26, 1994: Motion: Randall moved to approve the minutes of the October 26, 1994, meeting of the Committee on Community Needs, as corrected. Murray seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 9-0. PUBLIC/MEMBER DISCUSSION: Dennis referred the committee to a letter from the Department of Health regarding the location of the Adult Day Program (ADP) and the task force which has been created to assess the overcrowding in the Adult Day Program. She indicated Martin had handed out a memo from Bob Welsh regarding the program. Martin is the CCN representative on the task fome. Martin discussed the background regarding the Adult Day Program. He said the State regulations which went into effect earlier this year mandated that there be more room per person. An interim solution was to create more space in the Senior Center. Martin said the Health Department made a proposal that looks at two lochions: (1) the Senior Center; (2) another location somewhere else. The task force last year wanted to keep people who could benefit from the Senior Center and its activities at the Senior Center. Other people, for example, more advanced Alzheimer's patients might be cared for somewhere else without affecting the quality of their care and they would not be disadvantaged by moving out of the Senior Center. Martin said he was not interested in rearranging the Senior Center. His position is that ADP belongs in the. Senior Center and that the consensus of the last meeting was that ADP should remain in the Senior Center if space is available. He said the old proposal of building a facility somewhere else continued to be discussed. Martin said he felt the Senior Center Commission was the body to decide how to allocate the space. He said the Committee should look at whether the program would work well and how it would be done and the bargaining could be done by someone else. Dennis suggested this matter be included as an agenda item for the next meeting. Dennis said CCN recommended to the City Council that $25,000 be placed in a contingency so that the Senior Center could be rehabilitated to acco.mmodate the Adult Day Program. That was passed in a resolution by the City Council. She said CCN did not recommend the money be put Committee on Community Needs December 21, 1994 Page 2 in contingency so that a task force could use it as it saw fit for the program. CCN said it was for rehabilitating the Iowa City/Johnson County Senior Center to accommodate the Adult Day Program. Martin said things were moving but the matter was not solved, Milkman asked what Martin felt was happening. He said things appeared to be moving right along, but the same arguments continue to surface, Dennis said she wanted to have both the County plans and the Adult Day Program plans included in the next CCN packet, Schmuch said she would like information about how the ADP impacted the Senior Center. Dennis asked if there was any other Public/Member Discussion. Randall said on January 3 a Public Hearing would be held regarding the Greenview Manufactured Housing park, Murray said she had heard there was not a need for Greenview or that the neighbors didn't want it there. Milkman said there had been hours of discussion with numerous points of objection--one of them is that flood monies are being used, A survey of potential residents who live in the floodplain has not been done because until the park is an actuality there was not a mason to build up hopes, Any information in a survey like this is public and the City wanted to make certain there would be no backlash from other parks to the tenants. As soon as the matter is approved, a survey will be made and the information will be made public. Milkman indicated no one has to move, it would simply be an opportunity to move out of the 100-year floodplain. Another complaint is that there is too much concentration of manufactured housing units in the southeast side of town. Flowever, this is the area that is level and less expensive to build a park, Other arguments are fear of drugs and crime and the perceptions of who is going to live in the park, which the City is trying to dispel. Dennis said she had received calls from opponents of manufactured housing. Milkman said the owners of Sycamore Farms were opposed. Fslb asked if P&Z had recommended approval and Milkman replied that they had recommended approval, 5-1. Milkman suggested the discussion be tabled to another time because them was a lot of information which would come out in the Public Hearing. Martin asked about the Steve Bright proposal. Milkman said the second rezoning had been rejected by P&Z on the grounds that there appeared to be enough manufactured housing zoning for now. Engh asked if the projects were right next to one another. Milkman said yes. Randall said Greenview was in the County. Milkman said that the annexation and rezoning of that property would go to Council in January. Martin questioned if money had been put into the Towncrest relocation, Milkman affirmed, He said it was his understanding that it was getting more difficult to relocate some households. He wanted to know if an issue was before the Council about devoting more resources to individual people. Milkman said the Council discussed the matter informally and decided ,,ot to do that at this point. Some of the mlocations involve solutions that more money can't buy. Martin asked how many people were involved, Milkman said the discussion centered on eight households that had special problems. Milkman said half of the households had already relocated and that fairness to all concerned wa san issue, Harris asked if there were other agencies involved, Milkman said LIFE Skills and other social service agencies were involved, Harris asked if some of the difficulty was location, Martin said most would want to be in Iowa City, Randall said that if they have to move out of Iowa City that would be a hardship. Milkman said if places were found in Iowa City, there were problems such as pets or the age of the unit, She said everyone thus far who has moved has moved into a better situation and six of them have purchased "stick built" homes, Committee on Community Needs December 21, 1994 Page 3 Dennis asked if there was any other public/member discussion. Dennis said she wanted to remind the Committee members to call Irene if they are not going to attend a meeting when they receive an agenda. It is upsetting for others to come and then discover there is no quorum. CITY COUNCIL UPDATE Dennis listed vacancies on the Airport Commission and the Broadband Telecommunications Commission appointments to be January 17, Appointments to the Committee on Community Needs and Historic Preservation Commission will be made on January 31, Discussion was held about reapplying to cerve on CCN. Milkman indicated that individual members would need to apply by the Thursday before the meeting. Dennis indicated that would be Martin and Schmuch, Murray asked if they would go back to the original application or did a person have to reapply. Milkman said they needed to say they had filled an unexpired term and wanted to reapply, She said the Council was planning to have the Commissions change By-laws so that if someone fills an unexpired term that they would automatically extend into another term, HOUSING COMMISSION UPDATE Harris said there was not a meeting in December. He indicated the Housing Commission proposed to be more pro-active using vouchers and certificates. He indicated 50% of the persons with vouchers were unable to find units and that funds for at least a half-time person at LIFE Skills should be allocated to deal with this. He said he felt the City should do this out of its operating budget not from CDBG funds. CITY STEPS UPDATE Milkman introduced a program called CITY STEPS--a consolidated plan for housing, services and jobs for low-income residents. She briefly discussed that the approach has been to deal first with obtaining information on needs (through public meetings and other input from staff), figure out the priorities and then come up with strategies to meet those needs. What was mailed to the CCN was information on needs, rankings by the Committee, and a general listing of various strategies to meet the needs. The Council will receive a modified form of this information and will have a Public Hearing on January 17 on these priorities and strategies and the Citizen Participation plan. Milkman said Randall and Schmuch were part of an eight-member committee that worked on this project. Schmuch said that the group operated on a consensus basis. Dennis asked if the document of 12/14/94 called Needs of Low Income Residents for Housing, Services and Jobs-were priorities or items that were brought up in the six different meetings. Dennis asked if all the needs were to be addressed in the strategies. Schmuch said yes. Engh asked if the items were prioritized by voting or how. Schmuch said they discussed and then came to a consensus. Dennis asked about A4 (page 2) Barriers--if these were drafts that the committee could give staff suggestions on changes. She said the statement "...perception that non-profits do not need to be professional organizations but can provide quality services with volunteers and limited resources." Milkman said that the words "quality services" might not be appropriate. Milkman asked how it should be changed. Dennis said, "...services with volunteers and limited resources". Randall said in 3D wording was to be added to say "pay at least a living wage". Randall asked if there were any other questions or comments dealing with the priorities or strategies. Dennis thanked the members of the committee for the work. Committee on Community Needs December 21, 1994 Page 4 STRATEGIES Martin asked about the business incubator. Randall said that would include shared services, e.g. a copier and clerical staff. Martin said he would add artistic space them and referred to what Cedar Rapids had done. He said space for artists to work in a building like this would have potential. Dennis discussed the Minneapolis Housing Agency which specifically provides affordable housing to artists for art space. Martin said that people tended to think of space for business and not artists as entrepreneum. Martin said he felt the library served that sort of function--as sort of an economic development. Dennis asked about the (') on the last page, "...at least a living wage." She questioned whether a family of three making between $17,000 and $20,000 dollars would consider that a living wage. Milkman said this figure is based on a family in a 2-bedroom unit at fair market rant paying 30% of income on housing. Falb asked what is the fair market rent in Iowa City for a 2-bedroom apartment. Milkman said $512 for a two-bedroom and $712 for a 3-bedroom (with utilities). Dennis asked how much the income worked out to an hour. Milkman indicated about $10.00 an hour. Milkman suggested adding in living wage ~17-$20,000 plus benefits if that's what the committee felt. If you add childcare into this, the figure appears even lower. Milkman said there would be a lot of questions on that but if the document talks about a living wage there must be some indication of what that is. Randall said the matter had been discussed at length in the meeting. Martin said it would be helpi~ul if a different method were used to figure this out. Milkman indicated the document would be going back to the committee. Harris said one way to accomplish this might be to look at a family budget and factor in costs and healthcare, etc. Milkman said that is why she thought putting plus benefits would address this issue. Murray agreed and said there were many more considerations. Schmuch said the debate going on in the committee was not unlike the debate in the meetings she and Randall attended. Milkman said the staff could work on it-she would discuss the matter with David Schoon. Dennis said the public hearing on CITY STEPS was on January 17. She asked if there were any other things to discuss about the document. Murray said D-4 (IV) re: zoning policies needed to be changed. Milkman said the committee needed to address having the jobs where people are living instead of having great acres of residential and no employment around--with zoning not only for residential but also for commercial for employment. Randall said that was one of the barriers that the committee found to achieving community goals. JOINT HEARING WITH HOUSING COMMISSION ON CDBG AND HOME APPLICATIONS Milkman suggested consolidating the decision-making process on the way the funds are being spent. CCN deals only with CDBG funds, the Housing Commission deals only with HOME funds and makes recommendations, the Local Homeless Coordinating Board deals only with Emergency Shelter Grant Funds. The Emergency Shelter Grant Pmgra. m deadline has already passed for this year. The Housing Commission in the past has just made recommendations to CCN on what housing related projects they think should be funded. They've felt uncomfortable at times because they only had one liaison reporting to them on what was said at the hearings. Milkman is recommending that both commissions hold joint hearings in February for CDBG and HOME funds. We will try and put all housing projects on one night and non-housing on the other night. The allocation recommendations would be done separately as they've been done in the past. So the allocation process would be similar except the Housing Commission would have a much better Committee on Community Needs December 21, 1994 Page 5 understanding of what requests there are for housing programs, They will be able to make fair recommendations to CNN, Dennis asked if the City knows how much HOME funds it will receive, Milkman said it was expected to be $500,000. Dennis asked then if an applicant could write one application for both. Milkman said no, they would have to write two because some of the information needed was different. They could perhaps use the HOME application for both. Martin asked if there would be a situation where one committee felt the request should be approved and the other did not. Milkman said that has happened in the past. Martin asked if CCN would know what the Housing Commission wanted when CDBG got to allocating funds. Milkman said the logistics had not been figured out. She said this was the only yea~' this would happen. If the consolidation process continued the two commissions' would be probably consolidated. Murray asked if it was common for housing projects to get funding from both HOME and CDSG. She said it had happened. She said that CCN had the harder job because it was likely to get a lot more applications of a lot more variety. REVIEW OF CDBG APPLICATION AND ALLOCATION PROCESS Long said staff had looked at the application and made a few updates to the form. He reviewed the new form. Dennis said a page for the needs was beneficial because the small space and request to add more pages produced volumes to read. She asked if the explanation of need could be limited to one page. Long said that could be done. Randall thought additional pages might need to be included. A discussion was held about how much information had to be put into the narrative. Dennis asked if there was any way to shorten the expense category section. She asked if people would get directions. Milkman said yes. Dennis asked why a full budget was not required like for the Emergency Shelter Grant. Milkman said these were usually project budgets which did not require an operational budget. Long reviewed #16 which is a new question involving evidence that low-income persons will benefit from the project. He also asked to limit letters of reference to three. Murray asked if #16 was trying to get at a need or evaluation. Milkman said both--an evaluation/feedback to determine that the application will serve people that it sets out to serve. MONITORING REPORTS DVIP. Schmuch said $15,000 was allocated to construct an area for kids. The construc- tion drawings are ready. Engh asked if they were going to use a portion of the basement or the whole. Schmuch said she did not think there was enough funds for the whole basement. 2. ESA Small Repair Proclram. Ruff was absent, so there was no report. Mayor's Youth Employment Prodram. Engh said the employment program operates the popcorn stand. They were going to do a pastry cart, but when the opportunity to pumhase the popcorn stand came up they decided to change because there was already a market for it. The beginning was rough with 13 kids (high risk) and all in high school. There was trouble with the kids showing up for work so the stand would be closed and citizens would complain. The work crew dropped to 6 and a manager (a freshman in college) was hired. CDBG funds the salary of the manager for watching over the program and this seems to Committee on Community Needs December 21, 1994 Page 6 15e working well. There are new, good goals for the stand. The funds are also used for stipends for the youth (they receive 95,00 an hour for working). Youth Homes. Engh said the siding on the outside of the home was nearly completed and the inside was completed and looks great. ADJOURNMENT; Motion.: Randall moved to adjourn at 8:40. Murray seconded. The mo'{Ion carried on a vote of 7-0. Minutes submitted by Steve Long, ppdcdbgTml,~J t esS:ca 12.21 MINUTES SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION DECEMBER 19, 1994 MEMBERS PRESENT: Rufine Anciaux, Harold Engen, Gerry Lackender, Terri MiRer, Tom Muller, Frieda Shannon, Mark Thompson MEMBERS EXCUSED: Fred Krause, Patrick Peters 6UEST~ PRESENT: BB Ballontyne, Ed Perkins, Woodrow Weebar - SCTU; Mary Pat Conway, Battle Campion- COE; Patricia Cone Fisher, City Attorney; Robert Kemp, Wait Shelton-New SCC Appointees; Jody O'Mara. INTRO/MINUTES/COE REMARKS/PUBLIC DISC, MULLER Muller called the meeting tb nl~ler at 3:69 PM and welcomed the guests. The minutes were appr~sued :as mailed. Conway, speaking for the Council of Elders, said they haue been working on the Uolunteer Recognition suruey report and they were also Interested In the SCTU Committee report. There was no public discussion. DISC. OF BOARDS D ADMINISTRATOR - LACKENDER Lackender opened the disctisslon by saying this Issue is about goals and obJectWes which the Commission has done, She led the group In reading the Mission Statement saying euerything the Commission does should be In keeping with the Mission Statement. Lacksrider said the points made in the newsletter were what the commission has done: I. Prioritize goals and objectives. 2, Make themselues available to the participants and the public. 3. Realize that Melsel is their administrator. She said the Commission should be better at "tooting its own hum", getting better acquainted with each other and trying to reach an agreement oner what the main issues are. Several members suggested space allocation, additional stoff~ voluntary financing and a sense of community are the main issues, Lackender urged all members to talk to older people and if they don't use the Center find out why. She 81s0 asked the Commission what they would tell the older non-user and what did they find out from the usam. Campion said the XRC (Holl'~ay Retirement Corporation) rates Johnson Coun'.~y #l In the state because of all of the opportunities offered to seniors in Iowa City. She cited the great classes, teachers and actluitles offered at the Center as the mason. Muller agreed and said getting feedback from seniors is one of the keys to our SUCCYSa, SCC MINUTES PAGE 2 PARTNERS CAMPAIGN - MILLER Miller reported that the committee has been working on an Informational packet for the City Council in support of our budget request for additional staff, Miller said she believes our request has merit, that our reasons for the request a~e sound, and our usage by the public prove it. Miller said she hopes the City Council will be receptive end approachable. RDP TASK FORCE UPDATE - MULLER Muller said that Nidey from ADP had presented their 2 year and 5 year goals and ADP's proposed selutlon In this plan Is to greatly expand the program in the Senior Center. This plan requires 1588 sq. ft of room space plus 388 sq. It. of office room. Muller said the plan for the expansion was fine and he wished them well, but there was no space at the Senior Center for It. He said that if and u~hen RDP moves to other quarters their room would be Ideal for Center exercise equipment which Is used alot, but is crowded Into half of the Game Room. He reported that Horowitz pointed out that the last expansion remodeling their room and giving Nldey an office, was a short term solution and that there waa no more available space at the Senior Center for them. Muller said Lacina presented an idea which received consensus from the group, He said with several constltuenclos Involved and ideas suggested - Superolsore, Board of Health, CDB6 and anyone else willing to give or raise money, they should be able to find a location. He suggested that the looking begin and with money next year end the year after that the problem can be salved. The Commission agreed that gluing up more space for the ADP wee not an alternative to consider. SCTU POLICY COMMITI'EE REPORT - RNCIAUH Rnclaux said the committee had met and agreed upon the Mission Statement and Policy as presented to the Commission, Shannon said that SCTU uoluntsers had read It, but had suggested 3 changes. Copies of the report with the 3 changes were circulated, and Perkins from $CTU explained the reasons for the changes. There was a dlscueelon during which the point was made that 2 members of SCTU were on the committee to represent SCTU and they approved the policy as written. SCC MINUTES PAGE 3 Thompson moved that the Commission accept the Mission Statement and Policy as proposed bg the SCTU Committee. Second bu RnclauH.Motlon carried, 6 ages, I nag bU Shannon. SENIOR DINING AGREEMENT - THOMPSON Thompson circulated o new revised memo to Charles Duffy, Choir of the Nutrition Advisory Committee. Thompson said he had contacted Serelcemaster who has the contract for cleaning at Marc§ HospitaJ who will come Doer and explain how he cleans their dining room. There was a short discussion about snow removal on days the Center Is closed and Senior Dining is open. Engen moved that the memo ae revised on December 19th be accepted. Second by Onclaux. Motion carried, all ayes. UOLUNTEER RECOGNITION REPORT - SHANNON Sharinon summarized the findings from the questionnaire and several Ideas suggested were discussed briefly. The consensus Is that she would haue 8 written report for the January meeting, that there was no rush to make any changes in the Center's uo[unteer recognition dinner and all of the Ideas suggested will be discussed at 8 later date. SENIOR CENTER UPDATE - MEISEL Melsel updated the Commission on the following: 1. She gave a report showing avei'a§e daily attendance figures for the Center and the Senior Dining p~ogram for the months of August through November. She pointed out that Senior Dining attendance remained basically the same averaging between 139 - 148 while the Center's numbers fluctuate based on activities scheduled - 175 to 23g. She said putting the menus in THE POST and having a month long Senior Dining anniversary celebration did not increase their attendance. She said that unlike the Center, they know exactly how many eat whereas we have always figured that at least 26% of Center visitors do not sign In. SCC MINUTES PA6E 4 2. She said the National Institute of Senior Centers is using our logo "Everything under the sun" for their promotion this year. it will be on all of their printed material, t-shirts, mugs, arc,, and credit Is given to us and Judi Waterman who designed it. She asked the Commission about buying mugs for sale in the Eidercraft Shop and for giving visiting dignitaries, Lackender moved that Meisel purchase 144 mugs as discussed. Second by Rnclaux. Motion carried, 6 ayes, Miller voted nay. 3. Meisel said the Partners In Reading program was a huge success with visits at South East Junior High by sealers and visits by students at the Senior Center. She added that the Center got lots of publicity out of It including mention in a Press-Citizen editorial. 4. Maisel said the Center will also get more publicity far the SCTU program as it has been selected as one of the 8 most innovative programs in the country for seniors and for inclusion in a book which will be for sale by the American Recreation and Parks Assoclatiml. The book will be sold nationwide. 5, Melsel said the Pilot Club of Iowa City has given $569 for audio augmentation in the Assembly Room, Finally, Meisel told of her and Rogusky's trip along with others to the Fiber Optics center In Johnston, The National Guard sponsored the trip and are in charge of the network, She said she thought the Commission and Council of Elders would benefit from taking such a trip next year. She added that Bud Gode will go over the further construction work on the building with the engineer and report back in January. Muller said the Commission should write a thank you to the Pilot Club, CONNECTION COMMITTEE ENGEN Engen reported that he and Muller had held the first meeting and felt it was a successful beginning, He is writing an article about it for THE POST. Engen said they agreed on meeting quarterig and to Include long-term space needs on the next agenda. Xe also invited them to come to the January SCC meeting to Introduce themselves and give a brief statement describing their work. Engen said he took a picture of the group and he has visited each agency and given them a print of the picture. SCC MINUTES PAGE 5 CHAIR TIME - MULLER Muller said Krause had asked him to express his thanks to all for his time on the Commission. Muller also expressed his own pleasure in serving end thanked the staff and MeiseL Engen presented Muller, Thompson and Krause with certificates of appreciation. ELECTION OF OFFICERS - MULLER The nominating committee presented the following slate: Chair - Engen, Co-Chair - Shannon, Secretary - Miller. Rncixux moved that the slate of officers be elected unanimously. Second by Lackgorier. Motion carried, all oyes, OPEN DISCUSSION - MULLER Meisel said the 3rd Mondays in both January and February were holidays and asked if the 4th Mondays were open for the meetings, It was agreed to meet on January 23 and February 27 at the regular time, The meeting adjourned at 5 PM. Minutes prepared by Joyce Phelps, SC Secretary. Minutes approued by Gerry Lackender, SCC Secretary, MINUTES IOWA CITY PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 199,5- 7:30 PM CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS MEMBERS PRESENT: Ann Bovbjerg, Pete Cooper, Sally Dierks, Dick Gibson, Jane Jakobsen, Tom Scott, George Starr MEMBERS ABSENT; None STAFF PRESENT: Denney, Holecek, Kugler, Miklo, Hating RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: Recommend approval, by a vote of 7-0, REZ94-0020, an application submitted by East Hill Subdivision, Inc. to mzone approximately 13.09 acres located at 655 Meadow Street from RM-12, Low Density Multi-Family Residential, and RS-5, Low Density Single-Family Residential, to RS-8, Medium Density Single-Family Residential, subject to the following conditions: 1) dedication of the Ralston Creek floodplain to the City, including an access easement between the pmpossd Cascade Court and the floodplain, 2) a restriction on the total number of dwelling units to 72 unless secondary access is provided, and 3) that the developer to participate with the City in the development and installation of a trail along the dedicated portion of the Ralston Creek floodplain, Recommend denial, by s vote of 7.0, REZ95-0002, an application submitted by Chandler Signs, Inc. to amend the Conditional Zoning Agreement for 1069 Highway 1 (Westport Plaza) to allow an additional freestanding pylon sign. Recommend approval, by a vote of 7-0, SUB94-0016, an application submitted by David Larson for preliminary plat approval of D&L Subdivision, 6.41 acre, four lot commemlal subdivision located on the south side of Highway 1 West, west of Sunset Street, subject to approval of preliminary stormwater calculations and the Grading and Erosion Control Plan by the Public Works Department prior to City Council consideration of the plat, and that a note be attached to the plat stating that the pamel designated as Lot 1 may be limited in its development potential due to topography, existing easements, and applicable building requirements. Recommend approval, by a vote of 7-0, to send the recommendation to the City Council that the Planning and Zoning Commission does not see any reason for a change in the by-laws concerning City Boards and Commission membemhip. CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Scott called the formal meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission to order at 7:42 p.m. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: Them was none. RIVERFRONT AND NATURAL AREAS COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 18, 1994 - 5:30 P.M. SENIOR CENTER CLASSROOM 5 MEMBE.RS PRESENT: Larry Wilson, Nancy English, Catherine Pugh, Jim Pugh, Richard Hoppin, Courtnay Daniels, Jessica Neary, Les Kuehl, Don Otto MEMBERS ABSENT: None STAFF PRESENT: Charlie Denney, Karin Franklin GUESTS PRESENT: Terry Dahms, Nancy Seiberling CALL TO ORDER, INTRODUCTIONS, AND ANNOUNCEMENTS: Chairperson Kuehl called the meeting to order at 5:37 p.m. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: Kuehl suggested that the Commission had not reached a conclusion about a system of warning buoys on the Iowa River. He asked if Dennay wanted a formal recommendation about the system and whether the City staff has continued work on the system. Denney said he knew that Iowa City City Engineer Rick Fosse was continuing to work on the warning system. He said he thought the discussion in the previous meeting covered the topic well, and that the Commission could make a formal recommendation if they wanted to do so. This item was added to the agenda following election of a vice chairperson. CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES OF THE DECEMBER 21, 1994 MEETING: Wilson submitted grammatical corrections to the minutes. Jim Pugh stated that he didn't like the use of acronyms such as ISTEA in the minutes because it was difficult to decipher them. Schweitzer noted that Don Otto's name had been omitted from the "Members Present" list. The minutes were approved as amended {MCU). DISCUSSION OF IOWA CITY: BEYOND 2000: Franklin explained that the City of Iowa City is the process of updating its comprehensive plan. She said the original plan was created in the 1970's and was a very extensive document. She said updates tothe plan had previously sought public participation by sending out notices or surveys that had a very low response ra[e, and so the staff ended up putting together the plan. She said the plan has historically been heavily focused on land use. Franklin said this year the City staff tried something different and put together 9 task forces for the 9 different-subject areas for the plan. She said she believed the task forces were very successful in producing overall vision statements and specific objectives for the plan. She said she would like comments from the members of RNAC on the vision statements and said that the Open Space task force and the Environmental task force may be of special interest to the Commission. Riverfront & Natural Areas Commission January 18, 1995 Page 2 Franklin said she was going to give the task force results and the comments from all the Boards and Commissions to the Planning and Zoning Commission. She said the members of RNAC can give comments at this meeting or give them to her personally at a later time. Wilson said he would like to hear comments from the RNAC members who had been on the task forces. Hoppin said he had been on the Parks, Recreation and Open Space task force and there had beer much emphasis on creating interconnectivity of trails and parks throughout the city, including neighborhoods, schools, and downtown. Hoppin said the task force had also tried to emphasize that open space facilities should be accessible both physically and economically. He said the task force wanted to make sure that any fees were set low enough so they were affordable to everyone. Hoppin said the only real remaining issue was whether the City could accomplish the gbals the task force set. Franklin said the goals would be implemented in more ways than just through development policy. She said this update would hopefully coordinate numerous community objectives beyond just planning and zoning. Jim Pugh said he was interested in how the plan would address the issues of interconnectivity of green space and interconnectivity in regard to the city's fringe area. Wilson said he was impressed that the vision statements included mostly broad issues rather than "potholes". Franklin responded that she had taken the "potholes" out of this document to be addressed later in the implementation phase of the project. Seiberling said she had been on the Environmental Protection task force. She said the process of developing the vision statement was amazing as they started with specific problems, and then the discussion grew outward toward more broad goals. Jim Pugh asked Franklin how the RNAC would be involved in the implementation of the plan. Franklin said the Commission would continue its advisory function as the plan was implemented. Pelton said he would like to see keywords like "riverfront and natural areas" included in the environmental protection vision statement. He said this would provide a more clear link to RNAC's role in the plan. Kuehl asked what the time schedule was for comments about the vision. Franklin said she wants to give as much time as possible for discussion, but she would like to forward the vision and the comments to the Planning and Zoning Commission by March. Kuehl suggested the Commission members may want to take the time before the next RNAC meeting to go over the vision documents more thoroughly, Jim Pugh agreed that it would be good to look the document over more now that Franklin has clarified the document and its implementation. Jim Pugh moved that the Commission should Include a discussion of the Iowa ClW: Beyond 2000 on next month's agenda. Wilson seconded. The motion carried unanimously (MCU). Riverfront & Natural Areas Commission January 18, 1995 Page 3 DISCUSSION OF JCCOG TRANSPORTATION PLANNING DIVISION WORK PROGRAM: Oenney said that JCCOG is required to develop a work program each year by the state Department of Transportation. Denney said the work program summary included in the packet gives the status of projects in the current fiscal year's work program. Jim Pugh asked if the time was coming when RNAC should begin to plan for segments of the trail west of the river, south of Highway 6, Wilson said he would prefer to continue to pursue the priorities outlined in the Iowa River Corridor Study Update, one of which is the segment of trail east side of the river south of Highway 6. The City has applied for funding of this segment from the Statewide Transportation Enhancement Program. Wilson said he had been pushing for a connection between Hawkeye Apartments and Coralville. Denney said JCCOG was looking at that as an option in a Mormon Trek Boulevard pedestrian and bicycle facilities study. Wilson said all of the other projects he's thought of are more appropriately University projects. Jim Pugh asked what the status was on the plans for raising Dubuque Street. Denney said the City staff had looked into applying for some federal flood relief money to raise Dubuque Street, but the City Council was not interested in pursuing the project at this time. Wilson suggested the raising of Dubuque Street may provide a great opportunity for getting a trail through the area. Hoppin said another issue the Open Space task force identified was a lack of sidewalks. He said one example was Lexington Avenue which has no sidewalks so that walkers must use the street and the traffic on this road is quite fast and heavy. Jim Pugh said there is a section of along Sturgis Ferry Park that is very well travelled by both pedestrians and walkers that has no sidewalk and no lighting. He said it is very dangerous and he asked whom he should contact to get this changed. Denney suggested Rick Fosse who is the Iowa City City Engineer. Kuehl suggested the lack of lighting may be considered a transportation problem, Wilson moved to request that assistance with development of the Iowa River Corridor Trail between Park Road and Taft Speedway, and continued general assistance with Iowa River corridor trail planning be included in the JCCOG Transportation Planning Division work program. ELECTION OF VICE-CHAIRPERSON: Jim Pugh was selected by acclamation to serve as Vice-Chairperson. RIVER WARNING SYSTEM Kuehl said the Commission looked at a buoy system submitted to the City Council by a concerned citizen that could serve as a warning system above dams on the Iowa RiVer. He said the City Manager had requested input from the Commission on this system. Kuehl Riverfront & Natural Areas Commission January 18, 1995 Page 4 agreed to send a letter to the City Manager stating that the Commission feels the buoy system is an idea worth exploring, and that City staff should consider {he system as they review options to improve safety in the vicinity of dams on the Iowa River, RIVER CORRIDOR TRAIL UPDATES: Denhey gave an update on the status of planning for River Corridor Trail projects, UPDATE ON DEVELOPMENT ITEMS: Denney said there was no update other than the City's Sensitive and Natural Areas Commission had its first meeting, COMMITTEE REPORTS: There were no committee reports, All committee members were encouraged to meet before the next Commission meeting, CCMMISSIONERS' REPORTS_: There were no Commiseioner's reports, FIRST REPORT: Dahms gave a report of the FIRST activities, ADJOURNMENT: Pugh moved adjournment of the meeting at 7:00 p,m, Otto seconded, Minutes submitted by Schweitzer and Denney, MINUTES IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION JANUARY 10, 1995- 5:30 P,M. LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM - CIVIC CENTER ME.~;~BERS PRESENT: Jay Semel, Kevin Hanick, Douglas Russell, Kay Irelan, Betty Kelly, Ginalie Swaim, Sue .Licht MEMBERS ABSENT:' None STAFF PRESENT: Miklo, Kugler, Dawson OTHERS PRESENT: Joan Hart CALL TO ORDER: Russell called the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: Joan Hart, 328 E. Jefferson St., said her neighborhood has been rezoned and she is requesting a portion of her block on which four historic homes stand be named a Historic Preservation Overlay Zone. She had a letter of request for the commission naming the homes. Hart said she owns the corner of the block, and bought the home to the north to preserve their green space. She said she needs the help of the.City in the form of a historic designation to preserve the brick home. Russell said the Commission has the authority to designate'historic districts, but not landmarks at this time. Hart said she is working toward getting the brick house on the National Register. Russell said the Commission will decide on a course of action and give Hart a written response to her request, DISCUSSION OF NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES NOMINATION - ST, MARY'S RECTORY, 610 E. JEFFERSON ST.: Kugler said this building was originally located on Jefferson St., four blocks west of its present location. The building was moved in the 1890s. He said attached to the staff memo is a list of the National Register criteria, which notes that moved structures are not usually considered to be eligible for the Register. He said the criteria do provide for certain situations, for example, if the building is significant for its architectural value. He said the Rectory is an example of the Greek Revival style. Other local examples are the Old Capitol and Rose Hill. He said some elements of the building have be6n replaced, but the front entryway is original, and the overall building style is a good example of Greek Revival. Kugler referred the Commission to excerpts from the Historical Preservation Plan, which recognizes that many early Iowa City buildings were moved in the past - a factor which should not exclude them from National Register eligibility. Russell asked if it is the duty of the Commission to determine eligibility before sending the application to the state level. Kugler said that it is, end showed photographs of the Rectory, Historic Preservation Commission January 10, 1995 Page 2 Hart said the current front porch was constructed out of remnants of the original. She said the siding is original, but the old roof rotted and had to be replaced. She said the slope of the roof changed somewhat with the reconstruction. She said the first four rooms of the Rectory were built in 1854, and the next two in 1856. The house was then moved intact in 1891, Licht clarified that the roof's pitch changed and the front section of the Rectory was built first. Hart confirmed these points and said two years later the rest of the building was constructed. Hart said the house is eligible for the National Register because of its architectural style. She said it is also important to focus on the people who lived there. She said the interior of the Rectory is as it was originally. Licht asked who Hart is working with on the state level. Hart said she is working with Ralph Christian. She said her next Des Moines review is Feb. 10. Kelly said there have been a tremendous amount of alterations. She asked if the windows have been altered. Hart said the windows are original, although some panes have been replaced. Russell said it was his inclination to approve the Rectory's eligibility and see if the state agrees. Licht said it is unusual for homes to be listed when they have been moved. Miklo said when he and Kugler researched the Rectory and put together the memo, they were unaware the roof had been changed. Russell said the roof did not change the architectural style of the building. Licht said the changes were in proportion to most homes built during that period. She said the roof probably rotted due to water and ice damage. Miklo suggested that in the motion, the context of the changes should be referred to. If the Rectory is found to be eligible, remember to refer to the reasons why it is and that the Preservation Plan provides for exceptions for moved buildings. Hanick said point five of the plan almost suggests the movement was part of the historical significance of the building. Irelan noted that there is no framing around the windows, yet the siding is old. She asked if the framing was taken off because of asbestos shingles. Hart said the previous owner removed the asbestos shingles, and the front is now back to the original. Miklo said the back of the Rectory is covered with new siding. Licht said generally when a thick window casing is taken off and replaced with a thin one, a gap forms, which is not evident in this case. Semel asked what the house should look like to make it significant, Russell said it should resemble Greek Revival. Historic Preservation Commission January 10, 1995 Page 3 Licht said she was not confident about the eligibility of the Rectory. Itelart asked what Licht would have done with the roof when it rotted. Licht said it couldn't have been saved, but could possibly have been rebuilt in the same style. Miklo said the new roof has eJements of Greek Revival that were not evident in the previous roof. He said the only other feature that is an example of Greek Revival is the front door. Licht said she is concerned that the Des Moines office know the roof is not of the original design. Miklo suggested saying the Commission recognized the architecture of this building. Given the age of the building, alterations would be expected and it is common for buildings to move in Iowa City. MOTION: Russell moved that the St. Mary's Rectory be considered eligible for the National Register under Criteria Consideration B - "Architectural Value" and Register Requirements 3 and 5. Iralan seconded. Semel asked what was to be done about the concern for the roof. Russell said Hart would have to discuss that issue with the state office. Hart said this building is a good example of early Iowa City architecture. Miklo said the replacement porch is historic by itself. The motion carried on a vote of 7-0. CONSIDER SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING ON A PROPOSAL TO CREATE THE MOFFITT COTTAGE HISTORIC DISTRICT AS AN IOWA CITY HISTORIC DISTRICT: Russell said he sent invitations for a neighborhood meeting to the five homeowners in the Moffitt Cottage district, but only one person showed up, and was in favor of the historic district. He said he had heard previously from two other homeowners enthusiastic about the project, and had not heard from the two others. Russell said if the Commission determined it wanted to pursue the designation of the Historic District, the next step would be to have the hearing, vote to recommend the district then hold a hearing with the Planning and Zoning Commission. If P&Z votes to approve the district, a public hearing with the City Council will ensue. Russell said the Commission needs to decide whether to propose that the Moffitt Cottages, which are on the National Register, be designated as a local historic district. The Commission must also consider the fact that this creation would provide for a new member of the Commission. This person would have an equal vote to other members, while only representing five homes. , Hanick said with such a small constituency, there is the possibility of an empty seat on the Commission. Licht asked if Moffitt Cottage could be tied in with another district at a later time. Russell said the boundaries of a district can be amended. This district could be combined with ;he East College St. district and therefore have one representative for both Historic Preservation Commission January 10, 1995 Page 4 areas. Russell said the residents of the buildings could be the representatives and would not necessarily be owners, Kelly asked if there was any opposition to the area becoming a historic district. Russell said there was not. Irelan asked how long it would be before East Court St, would be considered, Russell said it would be considered after the Longfellow project, in approximately 18 months, Irelan said it would be a good idea to wait with the decision, She said the process will include additional meetings and City Council time, and it will only be a couple of years before the area can be considered with East College St, Miklo said this issue would be separate from East College S{, and didn't think that the time issue would be a problem. Licht said the issues before the City Council are monumental enough that this discussion would take up too much of their time, Miklo said this process would not be too time- consuming, as there are not many properties involved. He said packaging the two areas could end up hurting one of them. Russell said this process would be relativ.el¥ simple to do. Russell said he thought there would be someone present at the public hearings to speak in favor of the proposal, Swaim said she could not see any reason not to approve the district. Hanick said the process has momentum, and won't have trouble being approved. MOTION: Kelly moved to set a public hearing for the Moffitt Cottage Historic District for Jan. 26 at 7:00 p.m, Haniok seconded, The motion carried on a vote of 7-0, REPORT ON RESPONSES TO THE REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR THE LONGFELLOW NEIGHBORHOOD SURVEY: Kugler said he received six responses by the Jan. 9 deadline and two more may be on the way, He suggested consideration of the proposals at the January 26 meeting, Russell said the project is being funded by the HRDP grant Kelly wrote, It was agreed that the proposals would be considered at the January 26, 1995, meeting, DISCUSSION OF CONSERVATION DISTRICT ORDINANCE REVISIONS: Miklo said the revisions are a response to a latter and discussions he had with one of the consultants, Landscape Research, Inc. He said the consultant wants to meet January 26 to discuss revisions. He outlined a number of problems in the ordinance which he felt should be corrected. Russell said on Jan. 26, instead of going line-by-line, he wants to be able to tell the consultants exactly what the Commission wants, He said that adoption of the ordinance will give the Commission the authority to designate conservation districts. Historic Preservation Commission January 10, 1995 Page 5 Swaim said four-to-five pages of guidelines is excessive. Russell said the Commission first needs to focus on the ordinance, then the guidelines. It will be important to denote how the conservation districts will be different from historic districts. He said he read the draft with a view toward regulations and changed things that weren't red-lined. Mik[o said the contract says the City can cease payment to the consultants at any time. Russell said if the consultants are fired, they will claim they used the entire amount of time outlined in the contract. Semel said he is concerned that this draft of the ordinance will be difficult to pass. Miklo said the general concept of a conservation district should not be difficult to pass. REPORT ON PROGRESS OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION WEEK PLANNING ACTIVITIES: Swaim said a Historic Preservation Week meeting will be held Jan. 15. She needs suggestions of properties that would be candidates for awards. Russell said painting, preservation, jurors, sponsors and funding still need to be discussed. Swaim said Rich Taylor is interested in having some events at his property. The Johnson County Court House will be used this year. Russell said there will be no guest speaker this year. Swaim said the practice of having the jurors present the Commission's selections for the pailsting awards need to be reconsidered, as last year's jurors hadn't seen the slides prior to the presentation. Russell asked who this year's jurors will be. Swaim said Tim Rinders, a design consultant for the Main Street Program, has been suggested by Kerry McGrath, who is also interested. Tim Samuelson, a restorationist from Chicago, has also been suggested. Miklo said a field representative from the Chicago office of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, as well as a Dubuque Historic Preservation Commissioner, have been suggested. Swaim said Tom Baldwin, and architect with Baldwin & White in Des Moines, and Charles Johnston from Marshalltown are also candidates. Miklo suggested contacting Licht about an architect. DISCUSSION OF A DRAFT OF THE "IOWA CITY: BEYOND 2000 - IOWA CITY'S VISION FOR THE FUTURE" DOCUMENT: Russell said there are sections of the document regarding neighborhoods and historic preservation. He said he and Kelly participated in the committees which drafted the document. Miklo suggested a memo supporting the document, stating it has historic preservation as one of its goals. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES OF DECEMBER 13, 1994, MEETING: Semel said paragraph two on page three should be corrected to say Iowa Humanities Board as opposed to Historical Board, MOTION: Hanlck moved to approve the minutes of the December 13, 1994 meeting as amended. Semel seconded. Historic Preservation Commission January 1 O, 1995 Page 6 The motion carried on a vote of 6-0. COMMISSION INFORMATION/DISCUSSION: Russell said Semel's and Hanick's terms expire in March. He said Hanick will be on his third term and Semel on hi5 second. He wanted to know whether the two intend to reapply. Russell said the application deadline is Jan, 31. Russell said there has been interest in historic district plaques for the [~rown St. homes. He is currently gathering information. Russell said if the Landmark Ordinance is adopted, a plaque might be considered for each landmark. Kugler distributed information about JCCOG's transportation work program for next year, the CDBG funding period, and the proposed fiscal plan for the City of Iowa City. Hanick said 409 S. Summit has a sale pending. He asked if the owners need permission from the Commission to build a fence in the back yard. Kugler said a permit was not required unless the fence will be over six feet in height.. He requested a note from I(ugler to inform the owners they do not need the Commissien's permission. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 7:17 p.m. Minutes submitted by Jennifer Dawson. ppda~in~mins~gc I. ~ O.mln MINUTES DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE JANUARY 23, 1995 - 4:00 P.M. ROOM C - IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY MEMBERS PRESENT: Clara Swan, Gary Nagle, Larry Quigley, Nancy Footner, Bill Nowysz, Karyl Larson, Gilda Six, Ruth Fox, Laura Hawks MEMBERS ABSENT: None STAFF PRESENT: Wilfreda Hieronymus, Jay Oehler, Cal Lewis, Karin Franklin, Bob Miklo, Scott I(ugler, David Schoon, Betty Anderson CALL TO ORDER Chairperson Swan called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. PRELIMINARY REVIEW OF HIERONYMUS SQUARE Cal Lewis presented a brief overview of the project design. Through the use of a model and sketches he described the building as having two stories of retail, three stories of office, and a large atrium in the center of the building. He stated that the building was fairly far along in the design process and wanted to hear the Committee's comments on the project. He said that the developer has been working with the City in some detail to deal with the CB-5 Zone requirements. Lewis displayed diagrams showing the location of Phase I and Phase II of the project. He said that the streetscape elements are not shown, as he is waiting on the City to determine the streetscape plan for the Near Southside area as a whole. In response to a question of Nagle's, Lewis stated that the distance between the street curb and the building is about 20' on the north and 25-30' on the west; a ten foot setback for the first floor exists on Burlington Street, Lewis presented descriptions of other properties in the area, which gave a sense of what was around the project. He said the project was adapted to blend and add to the influences of other buildings including the nearby parking garages, the institutional buildings of the Pentacrest, and the classic/ornate brick buildings of the downtown. Nagle asked if the sense of entry were strong enough to tell people it is an entry. Lewis said the two story glass wall would help differentiate the entrance as well as the canopy which covers the entrance on Burlington as well as along Clinton. Nagle asked if there was only one entrance, Lewis said there was an entrance along Burlington and an entrance along Clinton Street. Lewis discussed the plans to emphasize that there was something happening inside the building and how the atrium would be developed as a focal point. He discussed the elevation from the front, side and alley sides of the building. He touched on what plans might be included for Phase II, Lewis said the base material would be brick and that the model was relatively accurate. The developers would be blending the color of the limestone institutional--big scale buildings of Design Review Committee December 19, 1994 Page 2 the Pentecrest and the Business school building with the design elements of the more traditional downtown buildings. The building would have its own character and identity but also be an evolution of the other different styles that are prevalent in the most positive parts of downtown Iowa City and the UI campus. Swan asked for clarification that the public could enter anywhere along the building. Lewis suggested the project was developed with the idea of a sense of welcoming ;rid the public's ability to walk in off of Burlington and Clinton. Nagle again expressed concerns that the entry on the west facade may not be strong enough to tell people that this was the entry. Lewis said the two story glass wall at the entrances would be totally different and shaded from anything else. Nagle said even on the model he had trouble identifying the entry. Lewis suggested that the building entrance would be so dominant that it would be difficult to miss as a point of entry. He said it would be lighted different but even in the daytime that the canopy over the entry would be a focal point. Nagle said he did not think the main entry was dominant enough to draw people to it. Swan asked if there would be entrances all along Burlington Street. Lewis said one could not physically enter there because of the drop of grade on Burlington but there would be a sense of acceptance and welcoming from the colonnade. He said the ability to walk in would occur anyplace where the grade was back up to the point of where one could make an entrance to the building. He said the sense of entrance was pretty gracious and a grand sense of acceptance and welcoming. Six asked about the alley exit along the existing alley. Lewis said there would be an access door--a way in and out of the alley but it would not be a focal entrance. He said the building was planned to expand in that direction and the current plans would break up the alley facade so there was some scale to that side of the building and people could enter from the alley side. Six asked if there were five floors and Lewis said that was correct. Larson asked if the canopies would be glass--not canvas. Lewis said it would be metal, glsss or whatever would be a more permanent, fixed canopy rather than an awning. He said the building was a large- scale institutional type building. Six asked about the square footage of the first floor. Lewis said it was about 20-22,000 sq. ft. Swan asked about display windows. Lewis said all tenants would have visual or entrance access with the first two floors being particularly open and inviting. Lewis said there could be no access along the north side of the building because of the change in grade but there would be glass. Swan felt that would be a safety feature with people not being able to enter the building along Burlington Street; it discourages people from crossing the street in mid-block. Quigley asked if the access along Clinton Street would be accessible from a wheelchair and Lewis confirmed that it would. Swan asked about the elevator. Lewis said it would be immediately inside the main entrance, in the lobby. Fox asked about the signage. Lewis said that signage had not been decided and that would be provided at final review, He said there would probably be major signage over the entrances and a major identification of the building. Hawks asked about setvice/loading. Lewis said the alley during Phase I would stay in place with a service dock off the alley. Six asked how many parking spaces there would be. Lewis said about 33. Swan asked if the one opening to the parking area was both the entrance and exit and Lewis said yes. Design Review Committee December 19, 1994 Page 3 Nagle asked about the materials to be used on the panels. Lewis said no specific selection had been made. Nagle asked about the columns and Lewis said those would be brick. He said the only material not decided on was the inset at the second level, Lewis said the plans now had a steel frame with a translucent skylight kind of material as the cornice to allow light down through the top. It would have a glowing effect which would provide relief and allow the cornice to glow from the sun shining through it. It would add some light to the north elevation, Nagle asked if it was painted steel and Lewis said probably, Nagle asked about the colors to be used on the building and Lewis said it was similar to the model he presented, mainly grays. Quigley asked about open space and trees. Lewis said the plan would-clearly be to have that but the ultimate decision would be part of the City development as the sidewalk deve!opment around the building would be part of the City's streetscape improvements. Quigley asked about the width of the sidewalk area. Lewis said it varied from 20' on the north to between 25-30' on the west. He said the developer would work with the City streetscape design. The Committee continued to question Lewis about the materials to be used, colors and the entrances. Lewis said the entrances would depend on the number of retail owners and the size of the leased spaces. He said the design would allow the option to the tenant of having an entrance along Clinton Street. He said the number of entrances along Clinton Street could not be predetermined. He said the building would have the typical street-front walk-in retail look as its goal. Nagle asked for clarification on the outside lighting. Lewis said it was a little early in the development stage but there had been some thoughts-perhaps lighting in and around the canopy areas at the entrance and described other possibilities--including the two story lobby with its grand lighting which would have some spill over into the corner area. He said another lighting possibility would be with the cornice. Not only would it glow during the daytime with the sunlight, but potentially would have the same glow and character at night. He said they would not be considering floodlighting the building, but that more incidental detailed lighting of the building would be used to focus on something and to emphasize some of the scale and detail aspects of the building, Swan asked if there was space inside the atrium for pedestrian seating and Lewis said yes. He said the lobby was approximately 30' wide by 90' which would be a 2-story public space. This would be in addition to the 150' long 30' wide grand promenade and at the second level it would get bigger still. He described the atrium as extending through all five floors and this would be shared by everyone--retail and office tenants. The idea of putting the atrium in the middle is to have daylight through the entire building, so that a big floor plate could be developed for a company to have a large layout but still not be away from daylight, He said this was also about-the most energy-efficient way to do this. Swan said after the review the Committee would send a letter to the applicant outlining the design elements that comply and those that the Committee feel are inconsistent with the zoning ordinances and design ordinance requirements. She suggested Committee members ask additional questions as they relate to the materials in their packet. Design Review Committee December 19, 1994 Page 4 Quigley asked if the surrounding areas were conducive to the planned building. Lewis said that within the C8-5 there were no clear-cut design features so the developer looked more toward the other retail portions of downtown Iowa City and the UI campus. He said there was an attempt to be aware of the surrounding scale and materials and to try to bring them together in an expression that is sensitive and aware of the other influences, including the historic buildings. Six asked about the color being compatible with the Electronic Cave. Swan said that building would eventually be gone. Wilfreda Hieronymus said the lease for that building ran through July of '99. Six asked about the Mod Pod, a dark brick building. Lewis said if Phase II comes into being Mod Pod and Electronics Cave would be replaced and the development'would take its cues from the downtown and Ul--in essence--jump Burlington. Fox said the building was a good start to the redevelopment of the area and pulling the area together. Nowysz said the building captures the feeling and reflection of the older elevations of downtown and fits into the existing environment. Nowysz asked about the bays adjacent to the sidewalk and how the individual stores would determine the use. Lewis said "Gifted" would be an example for the new building to follow, He said the west elevation clearly depended on the retailer using the glass. Franklin noted that half of the frontage on Clinton would be the entrance. Lewis said more than half. Franklin asked what would be done to create a sense of activity within the building entrance and atrium. Lewis said there would also be the cascading stair coming down just inside the glass along the whole facade so the sculptural quality of the stair would form scale and character. He said details had not been completed but whatever lighting, benches and trees-- kinds of interior treatments that a Mall typically has would be done. He said because of the openness and the light that would penetrate there it would be more transparent--one would actually be able to see through that glass. He said whatever scale, character, color and lights it has would come on out to the corner and be part of the corner environment. He said that's what the retailers and people in the Mall would want--would be to make it as welcoming, open and inviting with as much color and character and lights and things that could possibly be there. Nagle asked about the roof top mechanical units and if they would be seen. Lewis said no and described the elevation. Nagle asked about material and Lewis said there was no idea at this time but it would be some neutral--plaster or something similar. It would probably not be brick but it could be. He said the development was not that far along but the focus would be to neutralize the visibility of roof top mechanical units. Nowysz asked if there would be smoke glass. Lewis said the glass would be clear to capture all of the sun and have control capabilities-again--with an open/interactive environment. Nagle asked if blinds would be provided. Wilfreda Hieronymus said the lease would delineate the type of blinds that would be used by tenants. Swan said she appreciated the sense of bringing the downtown into the project and the use of the cornice and canopy. Swan said the color of the brick, gray, was a surprise. Lewis said the reason for the color was to straddle the line between the small scale, traditional/painted, detailed red brick buildings and intermix with the Pentecrest buildings. Design Review Committee December 19, 1994 Page 5 Now¥sz commented about the elevation. Swan said the Committee had been concerned about the size of the building and it not blending with the street-scape. Lewis said the facade being broken down into three parts has the result of bringing the scale of the building down. He said that it should be remembered the building had two parking garages as immediate neighbors to relate to. Larson asked about the two sides for future development. She asked about the protected walkways. Lewis said facing the alley side there would not be storefronts. Larson asked about an entrance on south side of the building. Lewis said that was not a possibility because of the ramp down to the parking area. He said in addition there was an existing building which required fire separation ann that this side of the building would be the back of the first floor retail space which is typically the service side of the retail space. Nagle asked if anything with brick would be dor, e on the parking drive side. Lewis said the south side would be broken up with some type of brick pattern so there would be some sense of relief. Fox said she worried that the back side would be like other typical developments where around the backside of a corner ;he developer goes back 5' with brick and then the rest of the back wall would be concrete block. Lewis said it would have a brick pattern all the way around. Lewis said the east side would be a short-term investment and it was a true alley side which potentially would not be brick in the short-range. He said it would be a material that could be easily taken down and removed when Phase II is completed such as plaster. He said it would still be the image and color of the brick but would not be brick because of the investment cost of tearing it out when doing Phase II. Fox asked if the parking lot which is currently rented out would stay at this point and Lewis said yes. She asked if that parking would be for the new building. Lewis said he did not know if that had been determined and if so, it would he more for tenants than the public. Swan thanked Lewis for the presentation and encouraged the developers to proceed. Swan summarized that the general consensus of the Committee is that the Hieronymus Square project, as it was presented to the Committee, meets the general Design Guidelines of the Design Review Ordinance. EXTERIOR STAIRWELLS AND EXTERIOR CORRIDORS ON MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS Scott Kugler reviewed the staff memo dated January 13, 1995 and presented pictures as examples. Hawks stated that the drawings in the proposed ordinance amendment should be properly labelled in terms of where the sketches are being viewed from. Swan asked if this ordinance would be retroactive. Kugler said the ordinance would apply to exparlsions of existing buildings, and Miklo added that it would be a judgment call and it could be retroactive if it was a major expansion but for a minor addition it would not be expected to be retroactive. Swan specifically discussed the project behind the Mansion. She was told the stairwell and corridor were designed to allow for the required parking and that the stairs had to be where they are located. Miklo replied that the developer built to the maximum density allowed on the property, which explains the project design. Design Review Committee Oacember 19, 1994 Page 6 In response to a question from Quigley, Miklo stated that even though the ordinance doesn't specifically say so, the ordinance would apply to exterior wheelchair lifts. Miklo said the ordinance could easily incorporate wording to require lifts to meet the same requirements. In response to a question from Nagle regarding location of windows next to semi-enclosed stairwells, Miklo stated that he believes that these windows would not be required meet to certain 3/4-hour standards. Nagle was concerned about requiring the use of 3/4-hour windows, given that they could change the look of buildings. In response to Fox's question of safety, Kugler stated that persons on the Building Board of Appeals brought up the fire safety issue. Members of this board and the fire marshal were part of the committee that worked on the proposed regulations. In response to Swan's question, Kugler stated that this ordinance will not eliminate bad design, but will prohibit the exterior stairwells that we have been seeing throughout the community. Hawks moved to recommend to the Planning and Zoning Commission approval of the ordinance amending the Site Plan Review'ordinance (Title 14, Chapter 5, Article H) by adopting design guidelines for exterior stairwells and exterior corridors on multi-family residential buildings subject to: 1)labeling the sketch elevations accordingly and 2) expressly stating in the ordinance that the design standards apply to exterior lifts. Nowysz seconded. The motion carried 9-0. Miklo informed the Committee that P&Z will discuss this item on February 2 and 1 6. PROPOSED EAGLE COUNTRY MARKET DEVELOPMENT AT FIRST AND MUSCATINE AVENUES Footner summarized the neighborhood meeting that she attended at which this issue was discussed. She said she was concerned about the size and scale of the building, First Avenue being widened to five lan.~s, and additional semi-truck traffic. Hawks stated that the proposed development is the size of Econofoods. Fox stated that additional screening and buffering was needed between the development and adjacent residential developments. In addition to the buffering, Nagle added that relocating the building on the lot could eliminate some of the concrete. The Committee discussed the location of the stormwater management area and its use as open space. The Committee concluded that the letter should not imply that the open space must be located at the front of the development; the memo to Karin Franklin was rewritten to reflect that. Nowysz stated that typically Eagle storefronts are primarily all sign, and he hopes that the Committee would discourage such use of signs. , Quigley moved that the Committee send the memo to the Director of Planning and Community Development as rewritten to include language regarding the use of signage and providing adequate screening/buffering between the development and adjacent residential development to the north and east. Hawks seconded. The motion passed 9-0 Design Review Committee December 19, 1994 Page 7 Footnet and Nowysz left at 5:45. EXPANDING THE DESIGN REVIEW SCOPE TO INCLUDE THE CB-10 AND CB-5 ZONES Hawks briefly summarized the subcommittee's position regarding establishing three review categories for the design review ordinance; those being a certificate of no material effect, minor reviews, and major reviews. Minor reviews would be approved by the Committee, while major reviews would be reviewed by the Committee and approved by the City Council. Schoon asked if the Committee liked this approach. The Committee generally agreed that it liked this approach. The Committee discussed whe. ther demolitions should require a design review process. Quigley, Six, and Nagle questioned whether demolitions should require a design review process. The general consensus appeared to be that demolitions should not require a design review process. The Committee directed staff to further refine the definitions of when an alteration is a major or minor alteration. Schoon stated that he, with the help of other City staff, will prepare a new design review overlay ordinance for the Committee to review. At that point, the Committee can get into the details of minor and major reviews. NON-IOWA CITY RESIDENTS SERVING ON THE DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE Schoon reported that the City Council Rules Committee has requested that all boards and commissions state whether they feel it would be appropriate for non-Iowa City residents to serve on their own board or commission. Once the Rules Committee gets this information back, it will make a recommendation to the City Council regarding non-Iowa City residents serving on the Design Review Committee. ANNUAL ELECTION OF OFFICERS AND REPRESENTATIVES TO THE BANNER COMMITTEE Swan nominated Hawks as chair. Larson seconded. Hawks was elected as chair by a vote of 7-O. Hawks nominated Swan as vice chair. Larson seconded. Swan was elected as vice chair by a vote of 7-0. Larson nominated Nagle and Six as representatives to the Chamber of Commerce Banner Committee. Hawks seconded. The motion carried 7-0. CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES OF THE DECEMBER 12, 1994 MEETING Moved by Hawks to approve the December 12, 1994 minutes. Larson seconded. The motion carried 7-0. Design Review Committee December 19, 1994 Page 8 COMMITTEE DISCUSSION The work session was set for February 4, 1995, at 8:30 a,m,, and the next regular Design Review Committee was set for February 13, 1995, PUBLIC DISCUSSION There was none ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 6:20 Submitted by Betty Anderson,