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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1995-03-28 Bd Comm minutesMINUTES IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION FEBRUARY 14, 1995 - 5:30 P.M. LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM - CIVIC CENTER MEMBERS PRESENT: Jay Semel, Douglas Russell, Kay Irelan, Betty Kelly, Sue Licht MEMBERS ABSENT: Kevin Hanick, Ginalie Swaim STAFF PRESENT: Miklo, Kugler, Dawson OTHERS PRESENT: Paula Brandt, Steve Van Der Woude, Jeff Schabilion, Cynthia Chadton, Ginny Blair, Joni Kinsey, Thomas Chadton CALL TO ORDER: Russell called the meeting to order at 5:37 p.m. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: There was none. DISCUSSION WITH REPRESENTATIVES FROM FRIENDS OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION: Russell said in the Historic Preservation Commission's long-range plan, it decided it would like to be in closer touch with other preservation groups. He said this will be a two-directional information meeting. He said the Commission wants to know if there are things it can be doing better. Brandt said Friends will work with whatever the Commission's plan is. She suggested a regular column from the Commission in the Friends newsletter. She also suggested publishing brochures about the different historic districts. Brantit said at the last meeting, Friends gave five $1 ,O00 grants to houses for exterior improvements or renovation. She read the guidelines for grants. She said the Salvage Barn raises money for the grants, Russell discussed the progress of Historic Preservation Week. The Commission is also working on Landmark and Conservation District Ordinances. The Commission will want support in meetings with the City Council about the conservation districts. He said assuming the landmark ordinance goes into effect, the Commission will be buildings for designation as landmarks to the City Council regularly. Russell added there will be a Longfellow Neighbor- hood meeting at Longfellow School March 12 to discuss a survey of historic buildings in that neighborhood. He said the survey will be done by Molly Nauman. Russell said the Commission will look into contributing to the Friends newsletter regularly. Kinsey said the newsletter is published quarterly. Kelly asked if there's been a list of the National Register properties published. Kugler said the list is in the Historic Preservation Plan, and has been updated as to December 1992. He said the Planning Department should have files for buildings designated after that date, Russell Historic Preservation Commission February 14, 1995 Page 2 said Brown Street, the Moffitt Cottage Districts and two individual residences are the only new National Register listings. Russell said district brochures are a good idea. He said the Commission might also need to ask for grant money from Friends. For example, in the fall there were two projects for which the Commission needed money, The Commission decided to proceed with both projects, but might go over its City budget, Russell said he is also thinking about obtaining plaques for National Register homes. He said the City cannot be in the position of marketing specific plaques for the homes, but Friends might want to solicit the neighborhoods for their interest. He added that the City also cannot afford plaques, but Friends might want to be the middleman to purchase a quantity of plaques and sell them to homeowners. Brandt said Friends is interested in obtaining signs to publicize homes that are nominated or win awards during Historic Preservation Week. Russell said at the next meeting the Commission will begin discussing nominees for Historic Preservation awards. The deadline will be in April, He said nominees will be needed for the divisions of Residential Renovation, Institutional and Commercial Renovation and Historic Painting Awards. Russell said Moffitt Cottage District is in the process of becoming an Iowa City Historic District. He said the issue should be discussed at a March 28 City Council meeting. Kinsey asked if Friends should be there. Russell encouraged attendance at the City Council meeting. Semel said he encourages ideas about the presentation of the conservation district ordinance. He said there will be people both for and against the proposal at the meeting. Kinsey suggested strategy sessions be held before the meetings to allow Commission members to be ready for questions. Russell said he will make drafts of the Conservation District and Landmark Ordinance proposals available so members of Friends can look at them. Schabilion asked what the projected size of the Conservation Districts would be. Russell said sizes would vary. Schabilion asked how the Commission envisions the proposal of the districts. Russell said proposals would follow the same route as for Historic Districts, passing through Historic Preservation, Planning and Zoning then the City Council. Brandt said the state sesquicentennial committee is asking for suggestions on century homes and farms. Russell said members of Friends are invited to attend all Historic Preservation Commission meetings. Meetings are held regularly on the second Tuesday of the month. He said it would be very helpful to have members of the Friends talk with the City Council about these matters. Semel said it might also be useful to develop tactics for working with the University of Iowa. Kinsey said there are historic buildings at the UI, such as the old music building, slated for demolition. She said there are many committees on which Historic Preservation Commission members could serve. Historic Preservation Commission February 14, 1995 Page 3 DISCUSSION OF PROPOSED LANDMARK ORDINANCE: Russell said a draft has been proposed for the ordinance. The draft is being presented with the proposed additions to the city code underlined. He said he decided to use the same process that is used in designating Historic Districts. He said he left the Planning and Zoning Commission in the ordinance, but removed the State Historical Society's role. He said there is also a provision for a petitioner to bring a nomination form to the Commission. The criteria were based on statutes borrowed from other cities. He said the City should maintain a register of candidates and landmark designations should be recorded. Kelly asked if the nomination form is similar to the current process. Russell said if a citizen wanted to nominate a site, they must use the Commission's form and provide the data requested by the Commission. Miklo said he anticipated it would be the Commission doing the nominating in most cases. Russell said there are 50 buildings in Johnson County on the National Register, not including the historic districts. He said the Commission could create a policy to say that every six months it would send nominations to Planning and Zoning. Russell said he put a olause in the proposal so if the Planning and Zoning Commission does not act upon the nomination within 60 days, it will automatically go to the City Council. He said there will be two major issues in landmarking. The first will be whether the owner's consent is required, although it is not required by law. The second would be whether the landmark is the taking of someone's property, which means the property owner has to be compensated by the government. The Supreme Court has ruled that historic districts and landmark designations are legitimate zoning practices and are not takings. Licht said she is hesitant about leaving the State Historical Society out of the loop. She said there may come a time when the Commission members won't be trained in interpreting the information on the forms. She said the Commission needs an agency as an expert witness. It was the consensus of the Commission to have the State Historical Society review landmarks. Russell said Sara Holecek, Assistant City Attorney, included a memo in the packet. He said the answer to her question about whether a landmark has to be in a Historic District is no, it doesn't. Kelly asked what the dimensions of the landmark include. Russell said the landmark could include a building, a natural feature or a historical site. Miklo said there may be cases in which there are multiple buildings on one site. He said the Commission may designate a portion of the site as a landmark. Kelly said on page 9 there is no mention of who will pay for the plaque. Russell said he assumed if the proposal didn't say the City pays, then it would not be obligated to do so. Russell asked what the landmark should be called. He said calling it a Historical Landmark could be limiting the significance, as a cultural landmark might not be historic. Licht said the proposal cites the landmark must be 50 years old, which makes the site historic. Kugler Historic Preservation Commission February 14, 1995 Page 4 asked about places that are newer, but have had significance in the community. He asked if the commission wahted to tie itself down with places 50 years old or older. Russell clarified that the State Historical Society would be inserted into the list of bodies which must review nominations. He asked if there should be a method to undesignate landmarks. Licht said it would not be a good idea to bring attention to that topic in the ordinance. Russell said the City Council could undesignate by a vote. Semel asked what the grounds for appeal of a property owner could be, and whether there are economic grounds. Miklo said in theory the determination should be based on the merit of the building itself, and the challenge should be whether the building is historic or not. Russell said, as with other zoning, owner consent shouldn't be required. Miklo asked if the language on page seven, item D, referring to conferring with the owner, was taken from another ordinance, and is there a reason to spell the issue out. Russell said it was taken from either Ames or Des Moines, and the purpose is to give the owner a right to address the Commission before the process is approved. He said this would be before the public hearing and make it possible to avoid having a hearing. Miklo said he is concerned this would be short-circuiting the process. He said the purpose of a public hearing is to allow people to bring pro and con information to the Commission. Russell said he wanted to get that information out before holding a public hearing. Russell said he wanted there to be a way to make a record of approval or disapproval before the public hearing and allow the property owner to talk about it. Miklo said the purpose of a public hearing is to gather information, and this sounds ~ike the decision would be made before the hearing. He said there might be a different way to approach the matter. The Commission could send the nomination back for additional information if it is not sufficient. Russell said he will bring a revised draft to the March meeting. CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES OF THE JANUARY 10, 1995 MEETING: The commission moved out of the order of the agenda to discuss the minutes. Motion: Licht moved to approve the minutes of the December 13, 1994 meeting, Kelly seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 4-0. DISCUSSION OF REQUEST TO DESIGNATE PROPERTY LOCATED AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF JEFFERSON AND GILBERT STREETS AS A H~STORIC DISTRICT: Licht asked if the Commission wants to designate four-house districts continually. Russell said the answer might be to designate historic landmarks instead. Kugler said the Moffitt Cottage district only has one more building, but that area has the continuity of having been built by the same individual. Historic Preservation Commission February 14, 1995 Page 5 Semel asked why Historic Districts have to be represented on the Commission, Kugler said he thinks there's a cap on the size of the Commission. Kelly said the Commission needs to consider this topic before it passes the request, It was agreed that this request would be further discussed at the March meeting, DISCUSSION OF THE LONGFELLOW NEIGHBORHOOD SURVEY: Kugler said Molly Nauman has agreed to survey the properties on both sides of Grant Street and south of Sheridan Avenue. He said the Planning and Community Development Department is reviewing a draft of the contract. Russell said a meeting will be held on March 12 at 4:00 p.m. in the gymnasium of Longfellow School, The meeting will provide an opportunity for Nauman to meet with the neighborhood association, Kugler asked if there was anything specific about the meeting to be added to the neighbor- hood association newsletter. Russell said the first point would be to add the Historic Preservation Commission received a grant from the State Historical Society of Iowa for a survey of the district, He said the boundaries, the name of the firm conducting the survey and specific information about the setting of the meeting should also be added. DISCUSSION OF SUMMIT STREET BRIDGE REPLACEMENT: Kugler said the City would like to get an early start on this project. The money will not be available until Fiscal Year 1997. He said feedback has been requested of the Cornmission. Kugler said the impression he got from Jeff Davidson, JCCOG Transportation Planner, is that the bridge must be and will be replaced. Semel said he is concerned that traffic officials haven't met with neighborhood representa- tives. He said this is a neighborhood issue and should be treated in that manner. Russell said the neighborhood association should be considered, Semel asked if the Neighborhood Services Coordinator is at an equal level of the traffic planner. Kugler said the neighborhood coordinator's job is to facilitate communication between residents and the City. REPORT ON PROGRESS OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION WEEK PLANNING ACTIVITIES: Russell said Ginalie Swaim will have much to discuss at the next meeting. DISCUSSION OF THE PROPOSED MOFFITT COTTAGE HISTORIC DISTRICT: Russell said the Planning and Zoning Commission is going to hear the proposal Thursday, February 16. Kugler said Licht will not be able to attend the meeting, but he will present the proposal if no one else wants to. He said the Planning and Zoning Commission seems to approve of the district. Historic Preservation Commission February 14, 1995 Page 6 COMMISSION INFORMATION/DISCUSSION: Russell asked if there will be a draft of the Conservation District Ordinance at the next meeting, Kugler said there would be. Russell said April will be a big month for making Historic Preservation Week nominations. Russell said there will be a conference in Des Moines on April 6 at which it will be decided whether the Commission will receive a Certified Local Government Grant for the Dubuque Street Survey and College Street National Register Nominations. Kugler said on March 11 Carde McGrath will be coordinating a free Certified Local Government Grant training workshop. Russell announced the Iowa Heritage Tourism Conference sponsored by the Convention Visitors Bureau. Russell said the commission is invited to the Johnson County Historic Preservation Commission's March meeting. Proposing that the County government implement tax abatement for historic rehabilitation projects will be the topic of the meeting, ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 7:25 p.m. Minutes submitted by Jennifer Dawson, rninsth~2-14 Mayor's Youth Em910yment Program Minutes Board of Director's Meeting February 21,1995 Board Members present: Dave Jacoby, Kristin McFarland, Barry Kucera, Julie Pulkrabek, Pete Simonsen, Loren Forbes, Sheila Creth, Jean McCarty, Pat Schnack, Terry Neuzil, Natalie Cronk. Staff Members Present: Ben O'Meara Call to Order: Called to order at 4:35. I. Introductions/Welcome: Dave welcomed all in attendance. II. Approval of minutes: The minutes of the previous meeting will be amended to show that Sheila Creth had provided notification that she would not be able to make the meeting. Minutes with amendment approved by consensus. III. Additional Agenda Items & Correspondence Received: Received a negative response from Steve Atkins on Ben's request that the popcorn wagon loan be forgiven. Steve said that the loan payback has been built into budget projections and he didn't think it would be prudent to forgive the loan. IVo New Business: The financial report was reviewed by the board. made to address errors in last months report. were reviewed by item. Changes were These changes The discussion of the Policy & Procedures manual was tabled until the next Board meeting. Discussion of a vehicle purchase will be tabled until the next Board meeting. Discussion of the Youth Services Foundation was introduced. Ben and Pat Schnack explained the present situation regarding fund raising and the question of MYEP's continued association with the foundation. Youth Homes has released a policy statement that essentially says they need to fundraiser continuously due to their large debt. This is contrary to the YSF policy and requires input from our board. Discussion focused on the mission of the YSF and their history of financial support to MYEP. Ben offered the possibility of participating with the other agencies in hiring a full time fund raiser. Board discussion of this proposal was brief and indicated an unwillingness to participate in such a venture. Overall the Board comments were negative concerning YSF and continued participation. The Board directed Ben to report back with information from the March 2, 1995 YSF meeting. We then moved discussion to the basketball tournament. Ben asked Board members to recruit volunteers for one of the tournament times. We received a donation of $120.00 for the awards from Dave Carpenter. The donation was solicited by A.K. The date of the tournament is March 11 from 9am to 9pm if all age groups fill up. Discussion then focused on the possibility of MYEP moving to a new address. John Roffman has offered office space at a house located at 410 Market, which is just across the alley from our present location. The rent will be $750/month with an additional $100 for utilities. He (Roffman) will pay the heating costs. Dave and Pete have seen the space both shared that if we can afford the increase in rent and utilities, the location couldn't be better. Ben also said that there is space to expand if MYEP grows. The Board asked Ben to develop budget projections to determine if we can afford the increases and present those projections to the Board at the March 21 Board meeting. Roffman would like a 3-5 year lease and would like to know our decision shortly after spring break so he can notify his renters. V. Old Business: No old business. Pete moved we adjourn the meeting, seconded by Natalie. Meeting was adjourned at 5:43. The next boar4 meeting is March 21, 1995 at 4:30 g,~lle L, Pulkrabek Secretary Ben O'Meara Executive Director MINUTES PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION M~CH 1, 1995 MEMBERS PRESENT: MEMBERS ABSENT: STAFF PRESENT: GUESTS: John Beasley, Jana Egeland, Judith Klink, Deb Liddell, Bruce Maurer, Matt Pacha, John Pelton, Rex Pruess, Dee Vanderhoef None Howell, Kriz, Moran Longfellow Neighborhood Association Representatives: Cecile Kuenzli, Nan Trefz, Jill Smith, Pam Ehrhardt FORMAL ACTION TAKEN: Moved by Pacha, seconded by Liddell, to approve the minutes of the February 9. 1995 meeting as amended. Unanimous. Moved by Liddell, seconded by Pruess, to expand the definition of family for purposes of the family swim pass to include people registered under the Domestic Partnership Registry. Ayes: Beasley, Egeland, Klink. 'Liddell, Pruess, Vanderhoef. Nays: Pacha. (Maurer and Pelton arrived late for the meeting and were not present during this discussion.) Moved by Pruess, seconded by Pelton~ to accept the northeast and south parcels for the purpose of constructing a trail on the east border to connect the two parcels, and to obtain from the developer additional land for o~en space that is flat. above the high water mark. and contiguous to the south parcel. Unanimous. Moved by Pruess. seconded by Pelton. to accept a portion of the 120 foot pipeline easement which would be sufficient for a trail head at both the north and south end, and a 16 foot swath for a trail through the pipeline easement area. AYES: Egeland. Klink, Liddell, Maurer, Pacha, Pelton. Pruess. Vanderhoef. ABSTENTIONS: Beasley, due to possible unconstitutionality of NOS plan. Corrections to the February 9, 1995 minutes - Vanderhoef stated under the N.O.S. Action Co~nmittee report on page 4, the last sentence should read: "She noted the Eagle Food Store has indicated a willingness to'donate land along the same side of the creek." With respect to the discussion pertaining to expansion of Oakland Cemetery, Liddell requested an elaboration on the motion to explore cemetery expansion so it was not taken out of context; that the 5/4 vote was not a statement to go ahead and expand into Hickory Hill Park but simply approving FAMILY DEFINITION: ADS PROPERTY: preliminary exploration of more information, giving staff direction to bring more information back to the commission, specifically with respect to the area adjacent to the new section of St. Joseph's Cemetery. Vanderhoef indicated the question is whether or not to change the family designation in terms of purchasing a family swim pass, with the question going to consistency with city policy as it now reads for the Domestic Partnership Registry, and the other possible question is whether there should be a family swim pass. Moran stated if the commission voted to expand the definition of family to allow people who cannot or choose not to marry to qualify as a family, the Domestic Partnership Registry would be the most feasible way.to implement the change, one in which staff could easily handle. A person would need to obtain a certified statement declaring the domestic partnership and would need to show it when purchasing a family swim pass. Moran stated no other recreational program or activity has a family-based fee. Moved by Liddell, seconded by Pruess, to expand the definition of family for purposes of the family swim pass to include people registered under the Domestic Partnership ReGistry. Ayes: Beasle¥, Egeland, Klink, Liddell, Pruess, Vanderhoef. Nays: Pacha. (Maurer and Pelton arrived late for the meeting and were not present during this discussion.) Moran stated staff will implement this change beginning with summer registration on May 17, 1995, including the new definition in the upcoming summer brochure. Jill Smith addressed the commission with respect to the ADS property and possible purchase of land to meet neighborhood open space needs. She stated the neighborhood stands for and hopes to create a green belt along the creek, by acquiring a 50' section along the creek and railroad track. The neighborhood association has received easements for trails along some of the other properties in this area. She indicated Pam Ehrhart is writing a grant for plantings along the creek, and they are working with Mayors Youth Employment Program to put together a project to clean up the creek. They would like the commission to contact the current or upcoming owner to purchase an area along the creek or work with the developer offering resources to create a path and clean up the creek. Vanderhoef questioned whether owners of property on the east side of the creek were willing to give the city right-of-way through the back of their property or whether it was a situation where the owners were expecting the city to purchase it. Smith stated the association is working through Marcia Klingaman to contact the property owner re purchase, potentially using 2 CDBG flood funds. Ehrhart noted they are working with a subconm~ittee of Environmental Advocates on how to restore the creek bed, and they are interested in taking this on as their major project. Smith stated in summary when she thinks of a matriarch she thinks about an older person looking over the community. The Longfellow'Neighborhood Association has taken on the role of a matriarch. They are concerned with the clear-cutting that took place and the lack of green space in this area. The association is a strong core of people, long term residents, and are asking how do they take that next step, how can the city, developer and association work together and can the association receive assistance for long term maintenance. Pruess asked why they chose 50 feet. Smith stated both the Environmental Advocates and the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission recommended this amount due to the slope down to the creek, to help with erosion and clean up, noting acquiring more land would be wonderful. Vanderhoef stated the commission had worked with the previous owner to acquire, through the NOS plan, land along the creek and railroad track, land which the association is asking the city to purchase. She noted there will be an obligation by whoever develops the area to dedicate land to the city for open space. At this time it is unknown what the developer's obligation will be. Moran stated the new owners would need to file a preliminary plat and at that time give the city an idea as to what land they would like to dedicate. Smith asked when land was dedicated if the Parks and Recreation Department is willing to take care of it, and working with the neighborhood on maintenance. Vanderhoef stated when the city accepts land the city is responsible for maintenance and would welcome any partnership with the neighborhoods. Smith asked if land is dedicated for a path if Parkland Acquisition Funds or a matching grant could be used to help establish the trail/path, asking if the developer can be asked to grade the area so it is non-erodible. Moran stated this is something that can be negotiated with the developer, with Liddell noting the land can be conditionally accepted. Smith stated they were leaving with the understanding that the association and commission/staff will keep in close contact, with the association notifying the commission/staff when the land is purchased, and at that time working together to contact the developer. Vanderhoef noted once a preliminary plat is filed, according to the NOS plan it will be determined how much land will need to be dedicated and they would discuss possibly purchasing more 3 GALWAY HILLS: MORMON TREK VILLAGE: land if an insufficient amount is dedicated. Liddell noted from a marketing perspective developers want to know what it is going to mean to their land value and she has heard consistently that open space enhances land value. She noted developers are skeptical of the city's ability to maintain the open space it will be acquiring and they have a real reason for it as far as the level of the city's budget. Vanderhoef stated the city's Planning Department would like the commission to determine tonight what parcels to accept in Galway Hills. She noted the NOS Action Committee had discussed whether a trail should run along Highway 218 or along the east boundary bordering West High School property. They would like the trail to run along the east boundary avoiding use of sidewalks or streets, with it being a green belt. The NOS Action Committee is recommending acceptance of two of the proposed parcels, the northeast and south parcels for the purpose of constructing a trail head at the northeast parcel, with a trail running along the east boundary of this property to connect the two parcels, and asking the developer to dedicate additional land for open space that is flat, above the high water mark and contiguous to the south parcel. The commission supported the committee's recommendation. Moved by Pruess, seconded by Pelton, to accept the northeast and south parcels for the purpose of constructing a trail on the east border to connect the two parcels, and to obtain from the developer additional land for open space that is flat, above the high water mark. and contiguous to the south parcel. Unanimous. Vanderhoef stated the developer would like to dedicate the 120 foot pipeline easement which runs through the center of this development. Vanderhoef stated the NOS Action Committee is recom.mending acceptance of sufficient land to create a trail head at the north and south end of this easement and a 16 foot swath for a trail through this area. Vanderhoef stated a trail would extend from West High School to Willow Creek Park. Moran noted this is a high density area. Pacha and Maurer expressed concern about the lack of play space for the youth in this development. It was noted that the developer and homeowners association most likely would put in a play area and trail if the city did not. Moran stated the city could negotiate with the developer to build the trail in lieu of paying fees. Moved b~ Pruess, seconded by Pelton, to accept a portion of the 120 foot pipeline easement which would be sufficient for a trail head at both the north and south end. and a 16 foot swath for a trail through the pipeline easement area. AYES: Egeland, Klink, Liddell, Maurer, Pacha, Pelton, Pruess, 4 AFFILIATE GROUPS: Vanderhoef. ABSTENTIONS: Beasley, due to possible unconstitutionality of NOS plan. (Pacha left to attend another meeting.) Moran stated approximately seven years ago staff wrote letters to the youth sports affiliates with regard to their registration policy, with particular interest being given to Iowa City Boys Baseball and Iowa City Girls Softball. Both organizations indicated the opposite sex could participate in their program. Moran indicated staff could do this again. Liddell stated she did not like the exclusionary language in how the groups are named, noting some people would not choose to ask questions when it says gender. Liddell questioned whether these organizations should use non-gender language in the names of their organizations and on their applications. Pelton stated theoretically there would not be girls softball teams with mostly boys on it and vice versa, questioning why people have to mix the sexes all the time. Liddell stated it came to her attention two summers ago when one of her son's playmate's mother contacted her to see what she knew about boys baseball in that her daughter wanted to play baseball. She reported back she had a dif~ic61t time getting information and was really discouraged when she made advances to the organization. The mother decided not to pursue it because she did not want to put her 8 year old through it. Liddell stated she approached the founder of this organization last summer and asked if they let girls play, and he indicated they strongly discouraged it. She stated the commission should look at it in terms of the Kickers and Swim Club where both girls and boys participate together, and pointed out the gender neutral language in their name, by-laws and application forms. Liddell stated what the community knows about an affiliate group is what is included on the application form, noting the language was very exclusive. She agreed it probably would not be an issue for a large number of families, and youth would most likely play with their gender group, but she felt there should be a choice not a mandate. Liddell stated she wanted discussion as to what the city has a right to expect from affiliate groups and what it means to have affiliate status. Moran stated staff act as a liaison on the groups and attend their meetings when necessary. He felt the groups would not have a problem with making this change. Pruess questioned if it was right for the department to ask groups to change their policy when the department itself has separate men's and women's softball and basketball leagues and also co-re¢ leagues. Maurer stated both genders had a opportunity to 5 play softball/basketball whereas in this situation girls do not have an opportunity to play baseball and felt the law would dictate an equal opportunity to play. Pruess stated staff could ask the groups to use more acceptable language, noting the language used in Babe Ruth's application. Moran stated staff could ask the groups to make themselves aware of being gender neutral when putting out general correspondence to the public. Vanderhoef stated she reviewed and found that these organizations' by-laws were not gender neutral and would like to request all affiliate groups to use gender neutral language. Moran questioned adult affiliate groups such as Old Capitol Chorus and Sweet Adelines. Vanderhoef stated this was different in that there were opportunities for both genders to sing. Maurer asked what kind of teeth the city would be willing to put into this, with Moran stating the groups receive some funding and priority use of the fields at no cost. Liddell stated the issue is kids are feeling excluded and they should not have to fight for an opportunity to play, and asked for a review of all affiliate groups. Klink stated the overall goal was laudable and would support it but would like to put it in a larger context - what is legal's opinion; is there other situations within the city where this occurs. Beasley stated he needed to receive more information such as the by-laws, and was not in a position to mandate a change in the by-laws and name of the organizations at this time. Pelton stated he had no problem as to where it is now and the commission should not interfere. Egeland stated she was interested in at least pursuing communication and legality as to how this fits into if the city is giving them money what control it has. She encouraged wording to reflect opportunities available for the opposite sex. Pruess stated he was interested in what other cities do, noting more information would be helpful. Maurer stated what sport boys and girls are going to play is basically mandated by the High School Association (girls play softball, boys play baseball), and changing the language is not going to change what is going to occur, noting there is a built in sex bias based on the sport and based on what is happening in the country. Liddell stated the language does not change what happens on the ball field but it does determine whether or not people take the first step; they are now being systematically put out of the program. Vanderhoef questioned whether it was illegal to not allow for mix genders when there is not an equal opportunity for the opposite sex. She stated staff should work with the Legal Department to determine legal requirements. 6 P&R FOUNDATION REPORT: RIVERFRONT & NATURAL AREAS REBgRT: NOS REPORT: COMMISSION TIME: CHAIR'S REPORT: DIRECTOR'S REPORT: Beasley reported they met with the City Manager to obtain further information on recreation center expansion, noting the City Manager was very receptive and informative. The foundation/committee needs to start quantifying the need, developing plans and cost estimates, and investigating possible funding options. Pelton reported the majority of the meeting was spent discussing the Iowa City: Beyond 2000 Task Force Report. Vanderhoef reported the committee is still looking at each watershed, developing ideas for neighborhood parks and trails and as they progress their recommendations will be brought back to the commission for approval. Egeland distributed pictures of various Hickory Hill Park bridges taken by a friend who is interested in finding out more information about volunteering to possibly mulch the trails and working on some of the bridge paths. Moran stated this was labor intensive work, noting a problem is getting wood chips to the site. The chips have to be dumped at the head of a trail, then wheel barrowed in. Moran stated staff would be willing to work with this individual, asking that she contact him to let him know what she would like to do. Vanderhoef complimented staff on the innovative and ambitious plans for Spring Break, noting the limited space available for programs and staff's efforts in trying to accommodate the public. She stated she would welcome an update from the Old Capitol Skaters Alliance as to the use of the ice rink and how many days they were able to use it. Moran noted the panel boards have been removed at Mercer Park for the season, and understood the group felt the season went reasonably well. Vanderhoef stated she put in a request to city staff to see if another tile could be put under Gilbert Street when it is dug up for the sewer trunk line project, which would make it part of the trail system connecting Napoleon Park on the east side of Gilbert Street. This would create a safe way for people to get across Gilbert Street to Napoleon Park. Moran reported on the following: CRANDIC PARK. The City of Coralville is using Crandic Park as an access point for their contractor to rip rap the bank along the Iowa River. WETHERBY PARK. No response was received from Gary McCool who was to respond by February 27 as to whether or not 7 ADJOURNMENT: the owners were interested in selling their property adjacent to Wetherby Park. CBD PLAY EOUIPMENT. A time table has been prepared for the replacement project. The tear down and construction period will run between August 15 and September 30. Staff felt this was the best time since many people will be gone and there is only one home game during this time. Fliers will be distributed to businesses in the CBD area, the Downtown Association, and the Design Review Committee asking for their input. Staff will be interviewing playground equipment distributors for ideas, and initiating a contract. SOUTH SITE SOCCER FIELDS. Staff will be meeting with the Kickers Association and Iowa City Youth Soccer Association to begin building a relationship in lieu of the south site soccer fields and discussing the process that will be used to reserve fields. PLAYGROUND EOUIPMENT. Howell reported due to safety concerns 32 pony swings will be phased out and replaced with other playground equipment over the next 12-18 months. In the meantime the play equipment company will furnish retro-fit kits to make the swings safer. The company is also offering a one-time discount on the replacement equipment purchased. Moved by Beasley, seconded by Egeland, to adjourn. Unanimous. The meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m. 8 MINUTES IOWA CITY BUILDING BOARD OF APPEALS FEBRUARY 6, 1995 - 4:30 PM IOWA CITY CIVIC CENTER MEMBER PRESENT: Maas, Werderitsch, Buss, Carlson, Roffman, Hagedorn MEMBERS ABSENT: None STAFF PRESENT: Boose, Kugler, Bogaard, Miklo OTHERS PRESENT: Roger Gwinnup, Mauro Heck, Steven Chemlar, Glen Siders, Karen Kubby RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: Recommend disapproval, by a vote of 5-0 with Carlson abstaining, of an ordinance creating design standards and location restrictions for exterior stairs and corridors. CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Carlson called the meeting to order at 4:37 p.m. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES FROM THE DECEMBER MEETING: Buss moved and Roffman seconded for approval of the minutes from the December 1994 meeting. The motion carried unanimously. DISCUSSION OF STANDARDS FOR EXTERIOR STAIRWAYS AND CORRIDORS: Kugler said he was presenting the proposed design standards that would apply to multi-family residential and commercial property for exterior stairways and corridors. Kugler said that the Planning and Zoning Commission proposed the prohibition of exterior stairways altogether. He said the Commission was also concerned over the design of the stairways and had safety concerns. He stated that many of the exterior stairways are flammable and may have obstructions such as bicycles. He said City Council decided to have staff take a look at guidelines to help developers integrate the corridors and stairways into the design of the building Kugler said city staff came up with these standards along with two iowa City architects. Kugler showed a few slides as good and bad examples of external corridors and stairs. He said one building was inappropriate because the full circulation of the building was on the exterior. He noted another was inappropriate because it was an attractive building with an unfinished lumber stair case. He pointed out grills on the stairways as a fire hazard and obstructions. He said the first standard was that preference was given to interior rather than exterior corridors. The second is that external stairways bb screened by a wall that would be not less than 50% solid and incorporated into the design of the building. The third standard is the staircases should not be bare lumber. Kugler said a fourth standard is that there should be Iowa City Board of Appeals February 6. 1995 Page 2 a roof or a cover incorporated into the design of the building and that soffits over exterior corridors should not be vented. He said the final standard was that stairwells in the front yard should be carefully built into the side of the building. Kugler explained that the Director of Planning can give approval to alternative designs that meet the intent of the standards. Kugler said the standards would also apply to exterior lifts. He passed out an elevation of an alternative design with some treatment of the exterior stairwell. Siders asked whether a corridor is a balcony or is it defined the same as in the building code. Kugler said an exterior walkw~.y that has access to individual apartments is a corridor. Boose said the corridor, as they are defining it, is an exterior exit balcony in the building code Werderitsch asked who is the director of planning. Miklo said it is Karin Franklin. Werderitsch asked if it would be acceptable if you had 20 balconies of wood along the street side. Miklo said this was legal. Werderitsch pointed out this was legal even though it is not appealing. Miklo said balconies are usually an amenity and that developers will go to some expense to make them look good, while an exterior corridor is an attempt to cut costs. Werderitsch said that standard #1 stated that interior stairways were preferred and this means and the rest of the guidelines were an attempt to force developers into going this route. Werderitsch said he has a problem using this as a wedge. Kugler said the intent was to indicate that we were not encouraging the exterior and they should investigate the possibility of interior. Werderitsch suggested this way of wording over the way it is currently. Werderitsch noted that unfinished lumber is not okay unless it is screened and that this is not a safety concern. He said screened lumber is still flammable. Buss asked "what are you going to do with existing buildings that don't meet the standard?" Kugler said that the standards would apply in cases of additions and major building alterations. Carlson asked if you can do brown wolmanized wood and have approval even though its not appropriate. Siders asked "how do we developers know that because that isn't in the stan- dards and how do we know what will happen under another director?" Buss asked about Svoboda's building on Dubuque Street and Kugler said it was all right as long as you keep the corridors on the back. Roffman asked about the brick stairs on Belle's building because it is not covered, but has a patio behind it. Miklo said the only corridor is one on the inside and those are the front steps which do not access apartments directly. Iowa City Board of Appeals February 6, 1995 Page 3 Roffman asked about fire exits along the sides of buildings that do fall in side yard. Kugler said circulation is treated like a part of the building for figuring side yards. Miklo said this was an issue brought up by Planning and Zoning members, they did not want encroachment into the side or front yards as an incentive to put stairways on the outside. Roffman said he really didn't like the last section'marked in notes which boiled down to "maybe you could do your project and maybe it would have to be reviewed by the director and then it would depend on the project". Miklo said fraternities would be a good example of when tl'~e last clause would apply and the intention is to allow flexibility to do additions as they are retrofitting an existing building rather than modify an new building design. Kugler said visibility of the stairway project was an important issue. Siders pointed to one example that was visible from the street on the front, and the way you meet the fire requirements are unclear. Boose said a person can always go to Board of Adjustment, and that he lobbied for the last sentence so that there is an out for some of these older buildings and the retrofit jobs. He said some of those doing retrofitting have don~ a very good job of hiding the exits so that you don't notice them. Buss asked how they were going to redo the existing bad structures? Boose the standards will be part of site plan review so the maintenance of an existing structure would not be reviewed unless there were additions. Werderitsch asked if staff had any idea on what will be their rebuttal arguments for added costs--and there will be thousands and thousands of dollars added to the project-- and the effects on low cost housing. Miklo said the claims that increased costs will hurt low income housing come with any new standard. He said there are examples of housing with low income projects that have interior corridors and attractive designs. He said the rents in these unat- tractive places are probably not any lower than in places with interior corridors. Bogaard asked "what about when lot size does not allow an interior corridor?" Miklo said that exterior it is a still an option it's just not one which is encouraged. Roffman said the elevation drawing in the slide is not 50% coverage. Kugler said this was an attractive alternative to the standards and so this is an exception that would be allowed. Siders said the standards would not allow this slide, and Miklo said the exception would be allowed with the director's approval. He said there was going to be some subjectivity in the last clause. Siders asked what they meant by fenestratio~l -- was that a window or any openings. Carlson said the definition of fenestration included both windows and other openings. Siders said the covering requirement will violate light and ventilation requirements. Kugler said only stairs have that requirement, and corridors do not. Siders said you are going to have to have redesign of units because you will be oovering the fenestration if you require covered stairways. Siders said that the vented soffits should not be in the site plan review and that it should be in the building code. He said this should be taken out. iowa City Board of Appeals February 6, 1995 Page 4 Carlson said has become popular to put A.C. units on or under the balcony and this is very unsafe. He said this location is nice for the builder because there is a short run from the condensing unit on the outside, but that it's a point source for fire. Roffman said if he were looking at this as a developer, he would spend a lot of time designing something that may or may not be acceptable. Kuglbr said that standard was to give flexibili- ty. Miklo said people are welcome to consult informally with the director. Miklo said appeals go to the Planning and Zoning Commission which is a fairly reasonable group, Siders said if this says that you shall not do something and then to get to the point that you can get to talk with Karin, you have to invest money to POSSIBLY get it through, then you are not going to buy property or you are going to overinvest in the property. Miklo said he thinks that there are good points. Siders said these are design standards, and you should use code standards with code language or have non-binding standards. Miklo said the next Planning and Zoning meeting is February 16 so people can go and give them the comments or the Board could make a motion to approve, disapprove, or suggest language changes. He said Planning and Zoning will have public hearing and then the standards will go to the City Council. Carlson said he had not read this through and said the rest of the wording was in conflict with "shall". He said maybe the Board needs to think about wording and perhaps "should" would be better. Siders doesn't like the use of "inappropriate and appropriate". Miklo said the idea behind "inappropriate" is that you could have done something better in the building design. Werderitsch said his opinion is that the standards are going to give the staff and Planning and Zoning wide powers over aesthetics and he prefers to leave the dosign to the professionals rather than a bunch of people who don't have a design background. He said wouldn't vote yes on this. Miklo pointed to a slide where complete circulation for the building was exterior. He said Planning and Zoning members asked if this is what we want in our community. He said this bad one was done by a professional and there is nothing that prevents from this from being in the front yard right now. Carlson pointed to the slide and said in writing the standards we wanted to get rid of the entrance balcony where they've got air conditioning, bikes and grills all attached to the corridor. He said this example explained the standard involving the soffits, because if you had a fire, it would be sucked into the soffits, and then there is an attic fire. He said it's a Catch 22 from a code point of view, because this exterior corridor is slick when icy, and if you put up a wall it will decrease the ventilation. He said that historically, across the country, the outside walk is better from a fire egress standpoint. Carlson said this is a first step in citywide design standards. He said when we talk about professionals and aesthetics, a good example is the architect of the laser center who is and award winner, but nobody really seems to like that building. He said the City Council has said we want to have design standards and this Board can give any recommendation we feel like, Iowa City Board of Appeals February 6, 1995 Page 5 Roffman said a duplex is exempt from these standards, and if it's such a great idea, then we should take it to the single family level. Miklo said this was an attempt to get at the worst case. Buss said where do you draw the line with telling peopte what is good design and what isn't. Werderitsch said this Board deals with code issues~and we shouldn't deal with design stan- dards as they are not life safety standards. He said we should not be dealing with aesthetics. Boose asked Miklo what the timetable for the standards was. Miklo said the quickest they would get go to council is the first meeting in March which is the 7th. Boose asked when the next Homebuilder's meeting was, and Roffman said February 16. Boose said it would be beneficial to report to the Homebuilder's meeting and then get their concerns to Council. Werderitsch moved to recommend disapproval of the design standards. Roffman seconded the motion. Maas said he didn't understand how in//3 that the inappropriate one is illegal, but the inappro- priate one in//5 is just "inappropriate." He said you shouldn't use the same language, and he would not vote for it. Carlson suggested staff change the wording to acceptable and unacceptable and desirable and undesirable in #3 and #5 respectively. Hagedorn said that she didn't think that the "bad" examples were all that unappealing. She said this is confusing to say the least, and if it is to go any further, then it needs to be cleaned up and she would vote it down as it is now, She said she has no idea how to fix it. The motion carried 5-0 with Carlson abstaining as he had helped write the standards. Miklo said it would be helpful if the Board would send a representative to Planning and Zoning meeting to discuss your concerns. Roffman said he doesp't have a problem with the intent, but he doesn't know how to accom- plish the intent in a fair and clear way. Roffman volunteered to go to the Planning and Zoning meeting but he wouldn't be able to go to Homebuilder's. Maas said he could attend the Homebuilder's meeting and report to them. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF FASWALL BUILDING SYSTEMS: Chemlar said he had been in Carroll, Iowa distributing this product from many years and was now in the manufacturing of this product. He said FasWall is been around in Europe for some time as a wood/concrete technology and is a substantial part of building design in Austria and Germany as both a residential and commercial product. He said the wood fiber is recycled content material made from old pallets, crates, and not new timber. His company wants to be part of forward movement of recycling. The fiber is mineralized by impregnation of an emulsion of clay which is absorbed into the wood fiber and bonds the fiber to Portland cement. He said the coating action also prevents rotting so that rot and decay will not occur. The material will not be flammable because of the coating. The product is very safe as there is no fuel contributed and no smoke. The product has e 4 hour fire rating with only a parch coat covering. Iowa City Board of Appeals February 6, 1995 Page 6 He said that all FasWall systems should have an engineering consultant so that concrete has adequate strength..The form stays in place as insulation and the concrete in the core is protected from temperature swings. He said he's had some people talk about this produ. ct as an affordable material for housing. The cost savings come from labor because the product has no masonry and is dry. He said long term maintenance costs are lower than other products and insurance premium costs are lower as well because it is a masonry structure rather than wood. He said the product has safety and structural integrity and can be built for seismic or hurricane considerations. The indoor air quality is also important. It is not a waterproof product. He recommends a parch coat, but one that allows br.eathing. He said the product is energy efficient. He said the sound absorption is demonstrated by interstate highway use of FasWall as panels along roads to buffer the sound. He said the product is termite resistant, a University of Georgia study concluded that the product had no source of food for termites and they died. Roffman asked what keeps the forms from separating with vibration? Chemlar said it doesn't float like some Styrofoam and it's heavy enough that it doesn't separate. Gwinnup asked if he-put a fiberglass in there, what's to keep it from squashing. Chemlar said he didn't recommend a fiberglass insulation but rather would recommend a mineralized fiber. Buss asked if this product would work in earth shelter applications? Chemlar said the product would work very well for this type of building. Werderitsch asked what keeps the blocks lined up if you don't use a form. Chemlar said you can use braces but the density of the material and a lot of friction from the material keep the blocks lined up. Gwinnup asked about the cost. Chemlar said construction with the 9 inch block is about ~2.30per square foot and the 12" is $2.60 per square foot. Gwinnup said for a framing and sheeting material you could use plywood much cheaper. Chemlar said the guy who was doing the statistics was using concrete block as the comparison. Roffman asked Chemlar if the company had approved contractors and training. Chemlar said his responsibility is training the contractors who want to use it. Roffman said there are going to have to be some guidelines and procedures. Chemlar said the technical notes cover the guidelines pretty well, any other considerations will be given to the inspectors. Boose said that FasWall wanted these installations and the placement of the rerod to be designed by an engineer. Boose said it would be to FasWeg's advantage to pursue evaluation by IC80. Chemlar said the City of Austin, TX is a leader in the green building movement and they have FasWall as one of the materials in their source book. He said the state of Colorado is follow- ing Austin's guidelines as is the State of Wisconsin. Iowa City Board of Appeals February 6, 1995 Page 7 Werderitsch asked if the Board could be doing a disservice the city by passing this product without ICBO test results. Boose said if they had the ICBO approval already we wouldn't bring it up to the Board at all. He said as long as the Board arrives at it's recommendation with logic, there is really no liability. Carlson said in reality the product has better flame spread and smoke rating than most products, and if an engineer is going to set up the structural guidelines, the product should be fine. Heck said he is interested to having the addition on his house made with FasWall. He said he has seen a lot of houses with it and he likes the product a lot. He said he is using Swanson and Associates in Fairfield who have worked with the material before. Buss asked if the home handy person can use the product. Chemlar said they could in rural areas where there is no code and inspection. Buss asked "does your company have the ability to go out and take wood leftover from projects?" Chemlar said yes, but whether it is worth doing or not is a question. Roffman said he remembered an article about a company that makes wheat blocks. Chemlar said that company is in Fairfield, and he has talked with them on using their material as insulation. Boose asked what Chemlar recommended for below grade building. Chemlar said you can keep the water out with waterproofing material or use dampproofing with inplane draining and provide a way for water to escape, He said he recommended a sand-cement mortar for nonhabitable places and for habitable he recommends bentonite clay panels. Roffman moved and Carlson seconded for approval of FasWall building system for use in conventional construction to be installed in accordance with manufacturer's specifications and designed by a licensed design professional. The motion carried unanimously. DISCUSSION OF MEMO FROM CITY COUNCIL RULES COMMITTEE: Carlson asked if any one had a problem with filling the appointments as the memo indicated. There was general agreement and Boose said he could put the clause into the Board's by- laws. Carlson asked what people felt about the outside Iowa City clause, as many who live outside of town own businesses in town and are affected by the Board's opinion. Boose said, speaking as a citizen, he has a problem with those who choose to live outside of Iowa City having a say in the regulations. Roffman said you have a vested interest in the community as a business owner in the way that you are taxed and many people who are tradespeople can't afford to live in Iowa City. Werderitsch said he does work in a lot of places that he doesn't get to have a say in, and that's tough. He said he thinks we have enough expertise for the Board in the city. Roffman recommended to approve clause //1 but against clause #2. Buss seconded. The motion carried unanimously. Iowa City Board of Appeals February 6. 1995 Page 8 ELECTION OF OFFICERS: Buss nominated and Hagedom seconded Carlson for Chair. Carlson said that he would do it again but it might be nice to have some new leadership. Werderitsch moved and Maas seconded to close nominations. The motion to ele.ct Carlson as Chair for 1995 carried 5-1 with Carlson in dissension. Werderitsch nominated and Buss seconded for Hagedom as Vice Chair. Buss moved and Maas seconded the motion to close nominations. The motion to elect Hagedorn as Vice Chair for 1995 carried 6-0. OTHER BUSINESS: Boose said that Christine has rosigned and the Board needs a mechanical professional to be on the Board. Boose said he has more Code books, including the plumbing code and mechani- cal code. He said he'd like to forward the ordinances adopting the '94 codes to Council by July so the Board may have to meet twice a month in April and May. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 6:50 p.m. Minutes submitted by L. Schweitzer obert Car so~~ Approved on: ,~,~__,,~/..~///~ By: hisblg\boapp2-6 MINUTE~ IOWA CITY AIRPORT COMMISSION TUESDAY FEBRUARY 14, 1995 - 6:45 P.M. IOWA CITY TRANSIT FACILITY MEMBERS PRESENT: John Ockenfels, Pat Foster, Howard Horan, Robert Hicks STAFF PRESENT: Ron O'Neil, Anne Burnside CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Ockenfels called the meeting to order at 6:47 p.m. A quorum of the Commission was present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: The minutes of the January 10, 1995, meeting were discussed. There were no corrections or additions. AUTHORIZATION OF EXPENDITURES: Foster moved to approve the bills as presented. Horan seconded the motion and it was passed 4 - 0. PUBLIC DISCUSSION - ITEMS NOT ON AGENDA: No items were presented. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION/ACTION: a. Gor4on Aircraft Commercial Business Agreement - Ockenfels said there were some changes made to the draft agreement that was included in the information packet. The main change was that' Gordon and his tenants would share the use of the fuel tank and each user would purchase his fuel directly from the distributor. Gordon Aircraft would not be in the fuel sales business. Gordon was not able to attend the meeting, but O'Neil said he had contacted Gordon and discussed the agreement with him. Gordon agreed to all the terms of the agreement but requested the term run from March 1, 1995 to February 29, 1996. Jones, from Iowa City Flying Service (ICFS), stated that if Gordon flies charter without receiving a CFR Part 135 Certificate, he will be violating FAA rules. Ockenfels said the agreement does not allow for charter. O'Neil said a record system would need to be developed to show fuel use by the tenants. Each tenant must pay the distributor directly and be able to show a payment receipt. Hicks said he has a moral problem with allowing the tenants to fuel from the HLM fuel tank. He questioned whether this would undermine the existing base of fuel customers for ICFS. Ockenfels said it is not the Commission's charge to allow a monopoly on a service provided at the Airport. Gordon is not in direct competition with ICFS because he is not selling fuel to the public. Jones said he would like to go on record as being opposed to the agreement with Gordon. Hicks made a motion for a resolution'to accept the agreement, but delete the use of the fuel tank by the tenants. There was no second to the motion. Foster made a motion for a resolution to accept the agreement presented, with the changes in the dates of the term of the agreement. Horan seconded the motion, and at roll call vote, the motion passed 3 - 1, with Hicks voting no and Blum absent. bo Iowa City Landsaaping - Horan has been discussing this lease with ICL. O'Neil said that ICL would like to lease some additional space. The total area to be leased would be between 3.6 and 3.9 acres. The area is included in the farm lease but it may be possible to delete this from the farm lease before the 1995 crop season. The Cor~mission was in agreement to lease the additional land if it does not conflict with the farm lease. Horan will work with Paul Dykstra from ICL. This will be on the agenda in March. eo Bouth T-hanga~ building - O'Neil said two bids were received on February 3. The low bid, with included the concrete floor and apron, was $ 250,746.00. The original budget discussed with Council was approximately $ 200,000.00. O'Neil discussed this with Council last night and the Council agreed to fund the low bid. The funding will be from an interdepartmental loan. O'Neil wanted input on what would be an appropriate hangar rent. He gave the Co~u~ission a chart with several different rents and the time it would take to repay the principle of the loan. The Commission agreed that $ 125 per month per hangar would be an appropriate rental fee. This is $ 22.00 more per month than the most expensive T-hangars currently at the Airport. This is at the high end of the average rent for T-hangars. Horan made a motion for a resolution to accept the bid from Henningsen Construction in the amount of $ 250,746.00. Foster seconded the motion and at roll call vote, the motion passed 4 - 0, with Blum being absent. d. Maste~ Plan Btudy O'Neil said the application has been approved by the FAA in Kansas City and sent to Washington, D.C. The FAA will notify our congressional delegation, and they will make the announcement. He was not certain when this would occur. Ockenfels suggested contacting our congressional delegation to emphasize the importance of the grant. O'Neil said that the Commission should be prepared to call a special meeting as soon as the grant is offered. The contract with McClure is in final form and ready to sign as soon as the grant is offered.. CHAIRPERSON'S REPORT: Ockenfels said he and Mayor Horowitz discussed the issue of having an advisory Commission member. This would be someone not living within the City limits. This item will be discussed at a future meeting. 0ckenfels said he has been informed that the City would like to proceed with building the new Public Works facility on Airport property. He said he emphasized to the Mayor that the Commission is obligated by sponsor assurances to receive fair market value rent for the property. Ockenfels said this was his last Commission meeting and he thanked everyone for their cooperation and help while he was on the Commission. COM/(ISSION MEMBERS' REPORTS: Foster said he had one item. He presented a plaque to Ockenfels in appreciation for the eight years Ockenfels committed to the Commission. Ockenfels said he would like to stay active on issues, especially during the Master Plan study. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT: O'Neil said there is a copy of the annual report in the Commission's packet. The West Side zoning trial is scheduled for October 23, 1995. The Iowa Aviation Conference is scheduled for April 27 and 28, 1995, in kmes. Any Commission member interested in going should contact O'Neil by the March Commission meeting. The latest date given for commissioning the Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS) is March 1, 1995. O'Neil said there is a memo in the packet from the Council rules committee that said they would like input from the Cormmission concerning appointments for unexpired terms. Funding for the ADA project and asphalt overlay 'project were removed from the 1996 operations budget and will be included in a bond issue. O'Neil said a couple of different options are being looked at for the overlay project. Two proposals have been received for rehabilitation of the exterior of the Airport Terminal. O'Neil is waiting for one more proposal. SET NEXT MEETIN~ The next regular meeting was scheduled for March 21, p.m. ADJOURNMENT: Foster moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:26 p.m. the motion and the meeting was adjourned. ~kenf~ls, Cha~ e~r~son 1995, at 5:45 Horan seconded MINUTES SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION JANUARY 23, 1995 MEMBERS PRESENT: Rufine Anciaux, Harold Engen, Robert Kemp, Gens' Lackender, Terri Miller, Patrick Peters, Frieda Shannon, Wait Shelton, M. Kathryn Wallace STAFF PRESENT: Bette Meisel, Joyce Phelps, June Braverman GUESTS PRESENT: Deb Humpage, student intern; blartha Schut, MSW student practicum; Tom Muller, Kathy Wallace, St. Peer Counseling; Jean Mann, ESA; Kyle Van Why, VNA; Doreen Nidey, ADP; Mike Foster, Sr. Dining; Bud Code, Agnes Kuhn, Liz Kudsk; Dennis Kahler, janice Williams, COE; Chuck Thayer, Rachel Dennis. MEET TItE CONNECTION COMMITPEE - Engen · Engen reviewed the organization of the Connection Committee which is made up of Center Agency Directors with the idea of establishing a "sense of community within the Center" which is Goal 5 of the Commission Three Year Goals. Each director spoke briefly about what services are provided by their agencies , how they are funded, the number of clients they serve, and other entities with whom the)' cooperate to bring these services to the largest number of seniors possible. CALL TO ORDER/INTRO/MINUTES/COE REMARKS/PUBLIC DISC. Engen had each new Commissioner give a brief histow of his or her background, and he welcomed all of the guests. The December minutes were approved with one correction. Anciaux wanted the minutes to report that she is in favor of an editorial board for the Senior Center POST, Williams speaking for the Council of Elders said that the)' had discussed the possibility of gixdng volunteers tuition credit for classes based on the number of hours they volunteer. She said everyone on the Council had voted in favor of this suggestion as it was one way of showing appreciation to the volunteers. Williams also said their idea was that this would be limited to only one class per ),ear. Wallace asked if there were a lot of people who do not take classes because of the cost. Williams said she did not know but she suspected that there were some. DISC. OF JAN. ISSUE OF BOARDS & COMMISSIONS - Shannon Shannon said this issue suggested that each commissioner jot down three personal go'ds that, if accomplished, will have a positive impact on the Senior Center. And, she said, as the newsletter suggested, each person should make 4 copies of these goals. One should be given to the Chair of the Commission, one to the Center Coordinator, one taped to your desk or some other place where it can be seen daily, and one in their meeting notebooks. Anciaux suggested that everyone bring these to the meeting in February. One section of the newsletter was about setting a good agenda. She said the executive board did tD' to do that each month before the meeting, This issue 'also stressed good orientation for new members. This should be followed up by committee appointments so that new members can get involved and feel the)' have a stake in what happens. Page 2 - SCC Minutes - 1/23/95 The last section discussed related to financial information and feeling confident that the administrator, the Chair, and finance committee feel that the)' full)' understand and have the ability to tell anyone how we are doing financially. REPORTS AND UPDATES Building - Bud Gode Gode reviewed the original study done by Howard Green Company and said there were two options. One was removing the skylights and replacing them with windows. This was related directly to interior leakage. The second option was to evaluate all of the work that needed to be done when funds are available for total renovation of the building. He said that man). jobs needed to be done such as tuckpointing and caulking the steps and other areas. He stressed that this is just good maintenance. The main problem with this, he emphasized, is the lack of a city building inspector. He said if the City had such a person the work of building maintenance would be taken care of in a timely manner. As it is now, it is just fixing problems as they arise. He cited the example of the roof. The company put a perfectly good membrane roof on the building, but the problems that arose were because the plywood beneath was faulty and not replaced. He said this was not the roofer's fault. It was not in their contract. A building inspector would have been on the site and could have seen what needed to be done. He said on this last renovation job the City hired the Howard Green Company to oversee each step and inspect the work being done. He said he feels it is imperative for the Commission and the City Council to take a stand on building maintenance, otherwise the worst case scenario will be the building will continue to deteriorate even more. Engen asked Shelton if he would be willing to meet with Gode and the Howard Green Company engineer, Wight Dohlman about this. Gode said he is willing to come back in blarch or April. Shelton said he was willing to try it, and he would discuss it with Gode. Adult Day Program Task Force - Muller Muller said the Task Force had completed the job and there will be no more meetings. He said the original charges to the Task Force was to explore and identify the issues short term and do some long range planning for the next ten years. He explained that the Department of Health had submitted a 2 ).ear and S ),ear plan with the basic and deciding point being remaining at the Center with more space being made available to them. The committee voted 5 ayes for the plan and 3 nays against the plan. He said the 3 nays were: Susan ttorowitz, Steve Lacina, and his (bluller's) vote. tle emphasized that he didn't want to beat up on anyone or throw anyone out; however, the truth is that there is no more room to give ADP and actually the Center could use the ADP room to advantage as an exercise room. He said the Commission has an obligation to take a stand and to communicate this to the City Council. A discussion followed during which the following points were made: * Giving up the Game Room is not an option as the number of users number between 40-50 persons - far more than those served by the Adult Day Program; * The users of the game room include those who have had strokes and other illnesses which would make them candidates for an adult day program if they did not have their friends in the Game Room for support; Page $ - SCC Minutes - 1/25/9S * With the Center programming focusing on health3' aging, and the next wave of seniors being those who emphasize eating right and exercising, the space at the Center is being stretched to the limit now with the exercise bicycles and treadmills being heavily used, classes in yoga, PACE, and more weight training classes planned, with expectations of more equipment demands and no place to put it; * The Center needs every inch to accommodate the numbers of participants it serves and there is no reason to think the numbers will do anything but grow as the population ages; * That there is a need for an adult day program and their numbers will also increase which emphasizes their need for a facility either built or remodeled to fit their needs. Shelton moved that in the best interest of the Senior Center, and the seniors of Johnson County in general, even considering the problems of the Adult Day Program, that the Center remain in its present configuration. Second by Peters. Motion carried, all ayes. Volunteer Recognition Committee - Shannon The committee is waiting for a book which has been ordered full of suggestions for recognizing volunteers. Partners Miller Miller said SCI¥ has shot 5 different spots about the need for more staff which will be shown on PATV. She said most items on the timeline have been completed, but there are a few yet to be done. THE ROLE OF PROGRAM SPECIALIST - Braverman Braverman said the job consists of creating, developing, and staffing a broad range of classes and special events on a monthly basis. She said her job includes recruiting teachers for classes, speakers and presenters for special programs. She explained that she also meets with SCTV and assigns to them the monthly programs for video taping. She said the monthly programs, classes, art exhibits, special events all require time and attention. Braverman emphasized that writing articles for the POST, press releases, the SCTV promotional program From the Mezzanine, speaking to outside groups and on radio shows, as well as selecting the monthly art exhibit, im'itations, refreshments, etc., keeping track of monthly volunteer hours are all time consuming details that make up the job of program specialist. Part of the job involves some fund raising by grant writing and/or forming coalitions with University Hospitals, Nlercy Hospital, First National Bank, Hills Bank & Trust, Iowa State Bank, etc. and creating programs which they are willing to fund and participate in with the Center. She said these kinds of programs are a win win situation for both the Center and the partners. SENIOR CENTER UPDATE - Meisel bidsel said the position of program specialist has been advertised internally as well as outside. She said the senior clerk typist position will be advertised within the City first. Page 4 - SCC Minutes - 1/23/95 She asked the Commission to consider any questions they might want to ask a potential candidate for either job, and if the3' have an3' to please let her know by 1/30. CItAIR TIME - Engen Engen made the following committee appointments: Finance-Steering Committee: Chair billlet, Engen and Wallace Connection: Chair Engen, Frieda Shannon, Terri Miller, and Peters during contract time. SCTV Policy: Chair Anciaux, Robert Kemp Volunteer Recognition: Chair Lackender, Shelton *AD HOC COMMITTEES: Adult Day Program: Chair bluller Nutrition: Chair Thompson Building: Chair Gode Volunteer Recognition: Chair Shannon, Peters * Carry over committees by former SCC members. Their work is nearly complete. Sign-up sheets were passed around for City Council and Board of Supervisor visits, Commission Comments and Board and Commission Newsletter discussion. OPEN DISCUSSION - Engen Charles 'Fhayer, COE member, came forward and wanted to speak to the Commission. lie said his complaint was with the remarks Meisel made to the Council of Elders at a meeting at which he was not present about the Senior Dining Program. He explained that Meisel responded to a question at the Council of Elders meeting and said that the she would prefer it if the program were housed elsewhere if it continues to serve high fat non-healthy meals. Thayer also objected to her saying that those who have dietary problems and the young elderly cannot or will not eat the meals provided by the program. His complaint was to bleisel characterizing the Senior Dining program as unhealthy and pointed out that the3' serve low cholesterol, diabetic, low fat, and low salt meals for those who need them. It was his feeling that Senior Center st-,fff should not criticize the meals because Senior Dining is a separate program and that many people come for the meal and stay for other activities. There was some confusion among the members as to what the issue was, what he wanted the Commission to do. The consensus was that bleisel was free to answer a question. with a personal opinion. The meeting adjourned at 5:40 Phi. Minutes prepared by Joyce Phelps, SC Secretary Minutes approved by Terri Miller, SCC Secretary MINUTES SENIOR CFNTER CDMMISSION F£BRUAliY 27, 1995 MEMBERS PRESENT: Lackender, Wait Wallace Aufine Rnciaux, Harold Engen, Gerry Shelton, Frieda Shannon, M. Kathryn MEMBERS ABSENT: Peters Robert Kemp, Terri Miller, Patrick STAFF PRESENT: GUEST§ PRESENT: of Elders Bette Meisel, Joyce Phelps Rachel I]ennis; Grover Rosenkild, Council CALL TO ORDER/INTRO/MINUTES/COE REMARKS/PUBLIC DISC. Shannon called the meeting to order and welcomed the guests. The minutes were approved as mailed with one exception. Wallace wishes to be identified as M. Kathryn Wallace. There were no COE remar!<s. There was no public discussion. DISC. OF FEB. ISSUE OF BOARDS & ADMINISTRATOR-ANCIAUX Anciaux said the 3 important ideas this month are policy, growth and change. She said it reminded them again that the Commission is a "policy" board. Lackender said adding the COE to the agenda each month is growth in that the Commission has a regular place for input from Center participants and that is what they want. Shannon said change does come with new appointees. So, each Commission develops its own personality. Shelton questioned the necessity of discussion this newsletter monthly as everyone reads it. The consensus was that it was worthwhile to discuss the ideas as a group. SCC MINUTES FEBRUARY 27, 1995 PAGE 2 PARTNERS CAMPAIGN - ENGEN In Miller's absence due to illness, Engen opened a short discussion on the information that is to be presented to the City Council on the request for additional staff. Meisel circulated the front page spread in the Dubuque Telegraph Herald about our Center. She said Dubuque is raising money to start a Senior Center. First they visited the Center, then they sent a reporter and photographer so that all of Dubuque could see what occurs at a model center. It was decided that copies of the article would be given to the City Council and mailed to the Board of Supervisors. REPORTS AN!] UPDATES Building - Shelton No report as he has not yet met with Gode. Volunteer Recognition - Shannon Rogusky has given them a new book full of ideas to Ioo1< over. No recommendations yet. Adult Day P~'ogram - Engen Engen reported on a letter he received from a member of the Board of Health, his response to the letter and the letter of support he has written in support of ADP's campaign for new quarters, GIFT FUND REPORT - PHELPS There is one correction to be made and revised copies of the 2 quarters FY 95 will be mailed in the next pac!~et. SCC MINUTES - FEBRUARY 27, 1995 PAGE 3 SENIOR CENTER UPDATE - Meisel MeiseL said she has spoken to Bernardini, Golf Room coordinator, regarding using the money made on the Golf League for a portable or collapsible driving range so the room can be used the six months it isn't used for golf practice. Shelton volunteered to find out what is available. Engen added that the Golf League will begin signups soon. ~leisel said they could think about manning a food stand for some restaurateur for the time RAGBRAI is in Coralville as a fund raiser. She explained that the Center and New Pioneer had cooperated during the last RAGBRAI visit but it was not a money maker because it was off the beaten track. l~leisel said the new Program Specialist has been chosen from a field of 188 applicants. Linda Kopping mill begin March 28. ~leisel said out of 112 applicants for the senior clerk typist position, 18 have been selected to take a performance test. These are going on.this week and Meisel said advertising for the weekend maintenance worker is continuing. COMMISSION VISITS - MILLER and ENGEN Engen reported for Miller who visited the City Council. She gave them general information about the Center. There was no Supervisor visit. Lackender will make the March visit to the Board, Shelton will go to the City Council, and Anciaux will attend the Council of Elders. CHAIR TIME - SHANNON Shannon requested that members who are unable to come to the monthly meeting notify either the Chair or Meisel. Otherwise, she said time is wasted waiting for latecomers who end up as no-shows. SCC MINUTES- FEBI~IUARY 27, 1995 PAGE 4 She said thank you notes were sent to Gode and Muller for their work for the Center after leaving the Commission and to Miller who has worked so long and hard on the Partners Committee. Shannon said the memo from Joe Fowler regarding Chauncey Swan parking shouJs that even the 18 spaces reserved for the Center were not heavily used. Shannon said these may be cut again or eliminatecl if they are not used more. Another article on this will be writterl for THE PDST. OPEN DISCUSSION Meisel said that in response to the Commission request regarding keepin~l policy decisions in a file, this file is now available. Maxine Wlcker~ receptionist, has a 3 X 5 card file of policy decisions. Engen said the Connection Committee is meeting in March. There was a short discussion regarding "excused absences". The consensus was that all absences are excused and there was no necessity to have a category called "Excused Absences". Shannon reminded members to turn in their personal goals as requested in January. The meeting adjourned at 4:58 Minutes prepared by Joyce Phelps, SC Secretary Minutes approved by Frieda Shannon, SCC Chair MINUTES IOWA CITY PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION THURSDAY, MARCH 2, 1995- 7:30 PM CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS MEMBERS PRESENT: Ann Bovbjerg, Dick Gibson, Jane Jakohsen, Tom Scott, George Starr MEMBERS ABSENT; Pete Cooper, Sally Dierks STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Holecek, Scott Kugler, Robert Miklo, Dennis Gannon, Jeff Haring RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: Recommend approval, by a vote of 5-0, of REZ94-0016, an application submitted by Windsor Ridge Development Company to fezone four parcels (34.21 acres) located west of Taft Avenue along Court Street extended from RS-5, Low Density Single- Family Residential, to CN-1, Neighborhood Commercial (6.93 acres), RM-12, Low Density Multi-Family Residential (12 acres), and RS-8, Medium Density Single-Family Residential (8.14 and 7.14 acres), subject to: 1 ) verification by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers of the existence or lack of wetlands within the western RS-8 parcel; 2) a requirement that both RS-8 parcels be developed as OPDH developments containing structures other than detached single-family dwellings; and that the eastern RS-8 zone contain an open space similar to the "town square" design shown on the revised concept plan; 3) the extension of Court Street into this area prior to any of the subject parcels being developed; and 4) administrative review by the Director of Planning and Community Development prior to development of the CN-1 and RM-12 areas. Recommend approval, by a vote of 4-1, with Jakobsen voting no, of an ordinance amending City Code Title 14, Chapter 5, entitled "Building and Housing," Article H, entitled "Site Plan Review," by adopting design guidelines for exterior stairwells and exterior corridors on multi-family residential buildings. Recommend approval, by a vote of 5-0, to adopt the amendments to City Code Title 14, Chapter 6, Article N, entitled "Off Street Parking and Loading," to reduce the amount of off-street parking spaces required in the CN-1, Neighborhood Commercial zone. Recommend approval, by a vote of 5-0, to amend City Code Section 14-6L-1M, to repeal item one, a provision that neighborhood centers shall be located with access to arterial or collector streets. CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Scott called the formal. meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission to order at 7:43 p.m. Planning & Zoning Commission March 2, 1995 Page 2 PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: There was none. FRINGE AREA AGREEMENT/COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT: Public discussion of amendments to the Johnson County/Iowa City Fringe Area Agreement, and public hearing on amending the Comprehensive Plan to include the revised Fringe Area Agreement. Miklo said the City currently has a Fringe Area Agreement with the County which specifies the zoning districts and subdivision standards that will be applied to development within two miles of the city limits. State statutes provide for the City to review subdivisions within that two mile area for the purpose of protecting the interests of the City. Miklo said the current Fringe Area Agreement is proposed for amendments which would allow residential development in the northern portion of the Fringe Area, or Area A. Development in this area, according to the agreement, would be controlled as cluster development, meaning three acres of [and would be required for each residence, but the lot itself would be one acre, the other two acres would be held in common open space. This is done in an attempt to preserve open space, preserve environmental features, e,g., steep ravines and wooded area, preserve farm land, and assure that development is compact to ensure that in the event that the site is ever annexed, City services would be easier to provide. Currently, Fringe Area A allows only residential development in the portion of the area generally located west of Highway 1. This would allow considerably more development than provided for in the current Fringe Area Agreement. Miklo said the proposal for Fringe Area B is not to allow development, residential or commercial, in the County. The proposal is to allow development only upon annexation of the property within the city, Miklo noted that the proposal states that no rezonings shall occur from agricultural uses to other uses within Area B, because of the City's interest to grow into this area. This policy is not a great change from the current policy. Miklo said the Agreement recognizes the growth boundary of the city within Fringe Areas B and C, The Agreement states that no development shall occur within the County, unless the development meets full City design standards. Miklo said the proposal for Area C is very similar to Area B, however, there are areas in area C that are currently zoned residential. The Agreement recognizes that these properties are already zoned and would allow development, subject to meeting the County's cluster provisions, similar to those required in Area A. Miklo said that the Agreement states that the City will not extend its two mile extraterritorial review area automatically as is allowed by State law. Rather, each time an area is annexed, negotiations will take place between the City and the County as to whether or not it is appropriate to extend that two mile area. Planning & Zoning Commission March 2, 1995 Page 3 There was no Commission discussion at this time. Public discussion. Judy Pfohl, 2229 Abbey Lane, President of the Ty'n Cae' Neighborhood Association, said a good portion of stormwater within Area C flows into the Rohret Road/Abbey Lane area. Pfohl encouraged remedy of this problem from the west side of Highway 218, which would lessen the impact on properties east of the Highway. Richard S. Rhodes, II, 2014 Rochester Avenue, felt the revised Agreement is vastly improved over the current Agreemeht. Rhodes, however, did not see any explicit provisions within the Agreement to protect environmentally sensitive areas. This disturbed him. Second, Rhodes found no provision regarding development types to be allowed within the County. Precisely, Rhodes felt manufactured housing developments should be established within the City due.to its ability to provide needed City services. Rhodes said if there are no explicit statements as to what type of developments are deemed appropriate, this will allow too much room to get around things. Rhodes also questioned the boundary between Fringe Areas A and B at Interstate 80. Rhodes felt that due to drainage reasons, the area between 340th Street to the north, Interstate 80 to the south, and Utah Avenue to the east would be better situated within Fringe Area B, rather than A. Rhodes also felt that due to development pressures that are likely to happen in this area when Scott Boulevard is extended, the area would be better suited within Area B for the City to have more stringent control over its development. Scott and Gibson saw merit in this reasoning and felt this could be addressed by the Fringe Area Committee, prior to Council review. Bovbjerg agreed with Rhodes as well. The Commission asked staff to examine this area more closely to include within Fringe Area B. Public discussion closed. MOTION: Gibson moved to defer discussion on amendments to the Johnson County/Iowa City Fringe Area Agreement, and to continue a public hearing on amending the Comprehensive Plan to include the revised Fringe Area Agreement, to the I~larch 16, 1995, meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission. Bovbjerg seconded. Scott repeated the Commission request to have staff examine the site referred to in the above discussion, and that .the City recommendation be forwarded to the Joint City/County Fringe Area Committee, as well as the Planning and Zoning Commission prior to its meeting of March 16, 1995. The motion carried on a vote of Planning & Zoning Commission March 2, 1995 Page 4 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT ITEMS: Public discussion of setting a public hearing for March 16, 1995, on an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan to adopt "Iowa City: Beyond 2000" as an element of the Comprehensive Plan. MOTION: Gibson moved to set a public hearing for March 16, 1995, on an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan to adopt "Iowa City: Beyond 2000" as an element of the Comprehensive Plan. Jakobsen seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 5-0. Public discussion of setting a public hearing for March 16, 1995, on an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan to change the land use classification of property located south of Rohret Road, west of Mormon Trek Boulevard and northeast of Highway 218, from 2-8 dwelling units per acre to 8-16 dwelling units per acre. MOTION: Bovbjsrg moved to set a public hearing for March 16, 1995, on an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan to change the land use classification of property located south of Rohret Road, west of Mormon Trek Boulevard and northeast of Highway 218, from 2-8 dwelling units per acre to 8-16 dwelling uni'~s per acre. Starr seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 5-0. REZONING ITEMS: REZ95-OO03. Public discussion of an application submitted by Melrose Investments to rezone an approximate 29 acre tract of land located west of Mormon Trek Boulevard and south of Rohret Road, from RS~5, Low Density Single-Family Residential, to OPDH- 8 (19.2 acres) and OPDH-12 (9.79 acres). Miklo said that when reviewing this rezoning, staff examined the Comprehensive Plan for this area, including both the land use map and the general policies of the Plan. The map currently indicates that this area should develop at a density of approximately 2-8 dwelling units per acre. Miklo said there are, however, policies in the Comprehensive Plan which indicate that medium density development, 8-16 dwelling units per acre, may be appropriate. The Commission will be examining possible amendments to the Comprehensive Plan at its March 16, 1995, meeting. Miklo said the overall density of the proposed development would be 6quivalent to 12 dwelling units per acre. The townhouse section of the development would provide approximately 10 units per acre, while the multi-family section would provide approximately 16 units per acre, for an average of 12 units per acre. Staff felt the Comprehensive Plan amendment and the rezoning for medium density are justified in this area, as the area provides the necessary City infrastructure and facilities to Planning & Zoning Commission March 2, 1995 Page 5 support medium density development without having an undue effect on surrounding neighborhoods. Miklo said the property is well defined by arterial streets, Mormon Trek Boulevard to the east, Rohret Road, which is being rebuilt to arterial standards, to the north, and Highway 218 to the southwest. A church facility is located to the south. Those serve to separate this area from the surrounding residential neighborhoods and give the site a unique identity. Highway 21 8 also presents some constraints that this development may address. Because there is access to arterial streets and transit service can be readily provided, the area is appropriate for medium density development. Miklo said there is a neighborhood commercial area approximately one-half mile to the north to serve this development, a neighborhood park to the east, and there will be additional park developments in the area as a result of the recent adoption of the Neighborhood Open Space Ordinance. The area is well positioned for access to West High and Irving Weber Elementary School. The Comprehensive Plan also identifies the area as having sanitary sewer capacity. He noted it is one of the few areas in the City where sufficient sanitary sewer capacity for medium density development can be provided. Currently, there is capacity for 150 units, and upon completion of improvements in the Abbey Lane sanitary sewer, there will be capacity for over 300 units. In terms of the OPDH development, Miklo said there are aspects that make the development compatible with the surrounding developn~ents. The development along both Mormon Trek Boulevard and Rohret Road will have the townhouses facing the street, rather than the back yards facing the street. Staff feels this will provide for a more attractive view from these roads. The multi-family residential units are to be clustered around a private street system and will be adjacent to the stormwater detention facility. Because the multi-family residential units will be clustered and more compact than what is typical for single-family development in the area, it is possible to provide a buffer between Highway 218 and the residential units. In addition to the special buffer, garages are proposed between Highway 218 and the dwelling units to further cut down on the negative effects of living adjacent to the highway. The rest of the townhouse development is to be served by private streets as well. Miklo said staff had raised some design concerns in regard to the townhouses. The developer has addressed many of these concerns and has indicated he is willing to work with staff to alleviate any additional problems. One of staff's concerns involves the prominence of the garages on some of the townhouse units. Miklo said the streets of the development will have sidewalks immediately adjacent to the curb and will be private, so there will be no maintenance responsibility for the City. Miklo said the Parks and Recreation Commission examined the proposal in regard to the neighborhood open space requirement. The Commission indicated that it is interested in having the proposed trail within the pipeline easement, dedicated to partially fulfill the Neighborhood Open Space requirements for the development, and Planning & Zoning Commission March 2, 1995 Page 6 a fee in lieu of land dedication for the rest of the requirement, This fee may be offset by the actua~ construction of the trail system by the developer. Miklo said a stormwater detention facility is proposed adjacent to the southern boundary of the site, along the creek, According to the City's Stormwater Management Ordinance, stormwater runoff from the site shall not be increased above its current state, Miklo said staff feels tilere is merit to amending the Comprehensive Plan and rezoning the area to allow medium density development. This is an area that has City infrastructure and facilities in place, and can be easily served by City transit service, Therefore, staff finds the site appropriate for medium density development, Staff recommended that the land use map of the Comprehensive Plan be amended to indicate that medium density residential development at 8-16 dwelling units per acre is appropriate between Highway 218, Rohret Road and Mormon Trek Boulevard. Staff recommended that REZ95-0003, an application to fezone 29.9 acres from RS-5 to OPDH-8 (20,92 acres) and OPDH-12 (9,07 acres) be approved, subject to the OPDH plan being revised to correct any deficiencies and discrepancies, submission of complete elevation drawings, and conditioned upon: 1 ) a limitation of building permits to 150 dwelling units until the Abbey Lane sanitary sewer line is upgraded; 2) a provision in the legal papers indicating that the Homeowner's Association will remove snow from the sidewalks on the private streets; and 3) the applicant paying fees in lieu of constructing the sidewalk along Rohrat Road, Starr asked what measures the units located in the floodplain will need to undertake, Miklo said the area will require some fill for these units to be one foot above the 100 year floodplain level. Starr asked if this fill will have a displacement effect on where the water will then go, and whether this impact will be downstream from the site. Dennis Gannon, Assistant City Engineer, believed there may be a minor impact, but the impact is more likely to occur upstream. Bovbjerg felt the fill will have an impact on either the speed of the flow or length of retention time, and as a portion of the site is filled, the path of the flow will be narrowed and this may create a more rapid stream, Starr asked what notification those who purchase or rent units in the floodplain will receive. Miklo said renters will receive no notification, but dwellings within a floodplain are required to have floodplain insurance. There is usually notification on the deed of sale, Holecek said the Subdivideds Agreement often notes this as well. Gibson said this proposal consists of approximately 290 units and asked if this site were developed at an RS-5 or an RS-8 density, how many units would there be, Miklo said an RS-5 development typically develops at 3,25 units per acre, and 5.2 units per acre at an RS-8 density. Therefore, this site would produce roughly 97 units at an RS-5 density and 160 units at an RS-8 density. If the entire site were developed at an OPE)H-8 density, rather than an OPDH-8 and OPDH-12, this would create approximately 240 units and still allow multi-family dwelling units. Miklo noted even Planning & Zoning Commission March 2, 1995 Page 7 an OPDH-5 zoning allows multi-family development due to the planned development nature of the zoning classification. Starr said recently, the City has been involved in discussions and negotiations involving federal funds and the purchase of property that exists in the floodplain. Starr asked if there is any correlation possible to this site. Miklo said the City's policy is that the City will purchase the property of those who voluntarily wish to sell, particularly for those located along the Iowa River floodplain. Bovbjerg asked if school buses would enter the proposed private streets. Miklo said the school system does not send school busses onto private streets, and had told him that school children will most likely be picked up on Cae Drive to the north of Rohret Road. Miklo said that due to the proximity of the Irving Weber Elementary School, it may be these children will not even receive bus service. Miklo also said the Fire Marshal had examined the development plat and no concern was raised, so emergency vehicle access to the site is not an issue. As this is a private development with private streets, street maintenance, snow removal, and refuse service will need to be provided on a private basis at no expense to the City. In regard to neighborhood open space, Miklo said the Parks and Recreation Commission had met and reviewed the site last night. The Commission stated that it would accept a 16-foot wide strip through the utility easement for the trail system, plus a small area at the north and south ends of the trail system, but the overall pipeline easement would not be acceptable for fulfilling the neighborhood open space ordinance requirements. The Commission has proposed some fees in addition to the dedication. Bovbjerg noted that dedication would make the trails public property. Scott said that it is normal operating procedure to limit public discussion to five minutes on the first round, and after everyone who wishes has had a chance to speak, discussion on the second round will be limited to three minutes per speaker. However, Scott said that as the neighborhood appears to have appointed a representative to speak for them, he was willing to allow that representative a longer period of time. Public discussion, Gary Watts, Melrose Investments, presented structure designs to the Commission and reviewed the proposal. Watts noted the development is to have a dense row of White Pine trees all along Rohrat Road and Mormon Trek Boulevard. Watts said the development is designed to provide a mix of unit sizes and types, as well as varying architectural design, rather than having the same size and architecture throughout, Watts said he intends for the development to accommodate a wide spectrum of age and income levels as well. Gibson said some of the units present a protruding garage design and asked if the design could be reconfigured to make the garage a less prominent feature. Watts noted the development does provide from three to five different townhouse sWles, but said he would be willing to work with staff on a possible design improvement. Gibson Planning & Zoning Commission March 2, 1995 Page 8 also questioned whether steps out the back of each townhouse to Mormon Trek Boulevard, are appropriate, and asked whether a sidewalk that provides access to Mormon Trek from the corners might not be a better solution. Starr noted that a walkway, rather than steps, would be more in line with ADA requirements. Watts said they can look into this. Bovbjerg questioned the handicapped accessibility of the dwelling units. Watts said that due to the design and topography, it would be rather difficult to make most of the townhouses accessible, however, the ranch style units may lend themselves well to accessibility. He noted that all six of the 12-plex multi-family dwelling units will have access from the south side, and the 18-plex units will have an elevator and will be fully accessible. Gibson said that another item on tonight's agenda concerns exterior stairwells that do not fit in well with the overall architectural design. Watts said there will be no exterior stairwells or corridors. Judy Pfohl, 2229 Abbey Lane, said she is President of the Ty'n Cae Neighborhood Association, but is also representing the Walden Woods homes adjacent to Rohret Road, the Korean Baptist Church, Plaenview, some of the homes off of Rohret Road on Hunters Lane and Santa Fe Lane, and some people from Westwinds. Pfohl complimented MMS Consultants for their design of clustering development, their creativity, and the provision of adequate green space, but said those she represents feel the development is too dense. Pfohl said the area already consists of many developments that are dense. Pfohl also said as the road widths are 25 feet, there may still be a problem with emergency vehicle and bus access. Miklo had noted earlier that as this is a private development, busses will not directly access the site. In terms of emergency access, Pfohl noted that one dead-end street appears to consist of forty units, and she thought the Code requires a second access when there are more than 25 units. Pfohl also felt that on-street parking will be a problem with these narrow road widths. Pfohl said the neighborhood has been distributing a petition that asks for the corner of Rohret Road and Mormon Trek Boulevard to have a traffic signal installed, and that this installation be included within the City's Three-Year Capital Improvements Plan. Pfohl felt a second signal at Abbey Lane may even be warranted at some time. Pfohl noted the residents also have concern about the traffic numbers and traffic rates of speed on the single lane portion of Mormon Trek Boulevard. Miklo said he had checked with Jeff Davidson, the City Transportation Planner. Davidson maintains that even though Mormon Trek is a single lane at this point and south, Mormon Trek does have sufficient capacity, because there are few curb cuts for driveways and streets. Jakobsen noted the signal installation will provide breaks in the traffic, especially for those exiting the development and turning toward the north. Pfohl said Mormon Trek is flooded over the top of the road at least twice a year, and the area where the multi-family units and parking are to be constructed is all flooded. Pfohl noted there are already problems with flooding, or even flash floods as a result of rain waters in the Abbey Lane and Willow Creek area. Pfohl noted a lack of Planning & Zoning Commission March 2, 1995 Page 9 confidence in stormwater detention facilities, if the facility at the east end of Abbey Lane is a standard facility. Scott assured ?fohl that the stormwater detention facility must retain all waters that originate from the site and that this facility will possess vast technical improvements over the facility Pfohl referred to. Scott said the City has attained much knowledge and experience with these facilities over the years.' Pfohl said the petition also asks for a density of eight dwelling units per acre, not an OPDH-8, which can go as high as 10 units per acre. Pfohl said an RS-8 density is being requested by the adjacent neighborhoods to be realistic, but an RS-5 density is really preferred. Bovbjerg noted that the Commission has recommended zoning designations, such as an OPDH-8, e.g., with a condition on the zoning limiting development density to something less than the standard. Bovbjerg felt this may be an option here. Scott said if this were a condition on an OPDH, it must be agreed to by the developer prior to closure of the public hearing at the City Council. Peggy Janis, 2302 Abbey Lane, submitted petitions containing 165 signatures from the areas Pfohl referred to. Richard Cary, 2416 Walden Court, said he is encouraged to hear stormwater runoff is being addressed as the Commission had voted several years ago not to take action on the waters that were flooding his house. Cary said he objects to the OPDH-12 zoning as he feels there is no similar zoning in the surrounding area. Cary felt this would be totally out of place in a predominantly single-family, townhouse and duplex neighborhood. Cary noted that the limits of the Comprehensive Plan are being exceeded. Cary said a few years ago staff had stated that three story units, which were proposed for one portion of the Walden Woods development, would not be appropriate. Cary asked why these are allowed now and said he feels staff is being inconsistent. Ca~/ could not understand why these would even be wanted in this development. Cary felt any reasonable developer would have been much more consistent with surrounding residential areas when selecting the structure types to be used in this development. Cary objected to the narrow streets due to the reasons already stated. Due to the number of residents, children in particular, that this development will generate, the sidewalks need to be eight feet wide, rather than four feet. Cary said the proposal makes no reference to grading intended to be done on the site. Scott said the Grading Ordinance will address the questions of grading on the site. Miklo added that this will be a requirement due to the existence of a floodplain on the site. Scott noted some of the requirements and administrative procedures of the ordinance. Gannon addressed siltation, fencing and seeding requirements. He said the Housing and Inspection Services Department is in charge of enforcement. Cary said bulldozers had been on the site adjacent to his property on at least two occasions, yet the City did not enforce the ordinance. Scott said the Grading Ordinance was probably not in place before the occasions Cary referred to. He said it is clearly part of the Planning & Zoning Commission March 2, 1995 Page 10 public record that both the developer of the complex in which Cary lives, as well as the developer at the top of the hill, had culpability in drainage problems. He felt the City was being asked to solve a private dispute between individuals that the City had nothing to do with. Scott felt the matter was in no way dismissed by the City, the Commission or Council, rather the City did not have jurisdiction in the matter. Scott said the Harshberger development had problems when the units in it were constructed. Nell Bennett, 1402 Burrv Drive, asked in response to the previous statements, who approved the grading and elevation plans of the projects to which Scott makes reference. Bennett said he is merely seeking assurance that the level of review and protection on the current proposal will be much greater than what had just been discussed. Bennett noted concern if there is to be the same level of review on the present proposal. Scott assured Bennett review will be much more stringent as there is now a Grading Ordinance in place and the stormwater detention requirements were probably greatly inadequate for the size of the earlier development. Chris Stephan, MMS Consultants, engineering consultant for the applicant, addressed stormwater detention concerns. Stephen displayed several overhead transparencies and explained engineering considerations. The point of Stephan's discussion was that the Melrose Investment site produces roughly only 5% of the total runoff from this watershed; a much greater amount of runoff is generated on the west side of Highway 218 which makes its way to the east side of the Highway by way of an eight foot by eight foot culvert under the highway, Stephan said the development will produce virtually no effect on the amount of runoff that will be seen at the Mormon Trek culvert, as the site produces such a small portion of the total runoff to begin with. Stephan felt no dramatic improvements could be made in the runoff situation until a wet bottom stormwater detention facility is created upstream on the west side of Highway 218. Stephan was confident the wet bottom detention facility to be constructed on this site will catch much of the sediment and siltation that people downstream complain about. In regard to development within the floodplain, Stephan said they intend to take more precautions than was done for the Ty'n Cae development, Richard S. Rhodes, II, 2014 Rochester Avenue, commended the developer for including a trail system, but he felt the stormwater detention facility may very well preclude continuation of the trail west and over, or under, Highway 218. Rhodes noted a similar type of culvert/trail system is in the works for under Interstate 80 in Coralville. Rhodes said he understands that the culvert under Highway 218 is smaller than that under the interstate and that it may not allow the headroom for both a trail and runoff underneath, but he felt the culvert could be replaced with a larger one or another alternative found. Rhodes was also troubled that there appears to be a large amount of floodplain that will require fill in order for it to be built upon. Due to the amount of water that may encroach upon the site, on occasions it may be difficult to avoid flooding of the garage structures. Rhodes said he knows it is acceptable practice to let pa~king areas flood, Planning & Zoning Commission March 2, 1995 Page 11 but asked whether it was acceptable for garages to be flooded. Rhodes was confident in stating that fill affects property both upstream, as well as downstream. Rhodes questioned the appropriateness of allowing as much development within a floodplain, as is commonly accepted. Rhodes said that prior to the 1993 flood, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers had a statistical package that modeled out the flood occurrence intervals. However, by adding the flood of 1993 to their records, the Corps has determined that flooding of particular significance will occur on the Iowa River twice as frequently as previously thought. Rhodes said because of this, a little extra room between the structures and the floodway is warranted. Rhodes said the site presently acts as a semi-natural stormwater detention facility, but once the site is built upon and water is constrained to the south portion of the site, storm water will just pass on through, possibly to the detriment of those downstream. Wendy Molof, 2330 Cae Drive, asked if anyone has an idea of how many children of school age this development might add to the school district. Scott answered that no matter where development occurs, all Iowa City School District schools are at or near capacity, with Fo:-.s;~'lv the exception of Weber Elementary, which would serve the development in q~es.'.ion. Scott said school matters are "a chicken or the egg" question, in terms of determining which comes first. Molof also noted concern about the widths of the streets and bus maneuverability within the development. Scott felt bus pull-off lanes should be included within the Rohret Road improvement plans. Gibson noted that many bus drivers do not like bus pull-off lanes, because once they pull off, it is difficult to get back into the flow of traffic. Molof also noted she would not care to consider whether a traffic signal is needed at Rohret Road and Mormon Trek Boulevard after the fact. She asked whether the developer ever picks up part of the cost for a signal. Scott said a developer has never picked up the cost for traffic signals for a residential development, but there have been contributions for turning lanes. Bovbjerg asked staff to provide information relevant to the signal. Miklo said that it is standard policy not to install a signal until actual traffic counts can be determined, although it is generally accepted that a signal will be needed at this intersection in the future. Miklo said he will have the City Traffic Engineer provide specific information for the Commission. Della McGrath, 2365 Cse Drive, said in regard to water runoff, she has seen a storm sewer drain on the east side of Mormon Trek Boulevard, about midway between Abbey Lane and Cae Drive. Public discussion closed, Staff noted that a written extension of the 45-day limitation will be needed. Patricia Clifford, representative of the developer, agreed to submit a written extension waiving the 45-day limitation period to the meeting of March 16, 1995. MOTION: Gibson moved to defer REZ95-0003, until the March 16, 1995, meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission. Jakobsen seconded. Planning & Zoning Commission March 2, 1995 Page 12 The motion carried on a vote of 5-0. REZ94-0016. Public discussion of an application submitted by Windsor Ridge Development Company to fezone four parcels (34.21 acres) located west of Taft Avenue along Court Street extended from RS-5, Low Density Single-Family Residential, to CN-1, Neighborhood Commercial (6.93 acres), RM-12, Low Density Multi-Family Residential (12 acres), and RS-8, Medium Density Single-Family Residential (8.1 4 and 7.14 acres). Scott said a written extension of the 45-day limitation period until the meeting of March 2, 1995, had been received. Kugler said staff has no new information and continues to recommend approval of REZ94-0016, subject to the following conditions: 1) verification by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers of the existence or lack of wetlands within the western RS-8 parcel; 2) a requirement that both RS-8 parcels be developed as OPDH developments containing structures other than detached single-family dwellings; and that the eastern RS-8 zone contain an open space similar to the "town square" design shown on the revised concept plan; 3) the extension of Court Street into this area prior to any of the subject parcels being developed; and 4) administrative review by the Director of Planning and Community Development prior to development of the CN-1 and RM~I 2 areas. Public discussion. There was none, Public discussion closed. MOTION: Bovbjerg moved to approve REZ94-0016, an application submitted by Windsor Ridge Development Company to fezone four parcels (34.21 acres) located west of Taft Avenue along Court Street extended from RS-5, Low Density Single- Family Residential, to CN-1, Neighborhood Commercial {6.93 acres), RM-12, Low Density Multi-Family Residential (12 acres), and R$-8, Medium Density Single-Family Residential (8.14 and 7.14 acres), subject to: 1) verification by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers of the existence or lack of wetlands within the western RS-8 parcel; 2) a requirement that both RS-8 parcels be developed as OPDH developments containing structures other than detached single-family dwellings; and that the eastern RS-8 zone contain an open space similar to the "town square" design shown on the revised concept plan; 3) the extension of Court Street into this area prior to any of the subject parcels being developed; and 4) administrative review by the Director of Planning and Community Development prior to development of the CN-1 and RM-12 areas. Starr seconded. Jakobsen said that she is always reluctant to reconsider a rezoning that was considered only a short time ago. Planning & Zoning Commission March 2, 1995 Page 13 CODE 1, The motion carried on a vote of 5-0, AMENDMENT ITEMS: 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 guidelines for exterior stairwells and exterior corridors on multi-family residential buildings. Kugler addressed some concerns raised at the February 16, 1995, meeting, Kugler said some changes to the text of the ordinance were made. Rather than setting forth standards or requirements that must be met, these will now serve as guidelines to be used by the Department of Planning and Community Development in reviewing the design of buildings with exterior stairwells and corridors, The word "shall" has been replaced in each of the guidelines with the word "should." A second issue concerned the application of the guidelines to the term "exposed, unfinished lumber." The discussion was mainly centered on the use of unpainted or unfinished wolmanized lumber; whether or not it should be permitted, and whether or not the provisions of the other guidelines would effectively reduce the visual impact of the unfinished lumber on the appearance of the building, Kugler said it is staff's opinion that the guidelines should continue to address this issue, There may be cases where the use of an enclosing wall around an exterior stairwell would effectively hide or soften the appearance of the unfinished lumber, However, the enclosing wall provision would not apply to exterior corridors, Also, it is possible that an alternative design could be submitted showing no provisions for an enclosing wall, and make use of unfinished lumber. If unfinished lumber is addressed in the guidelines, it would allow the City to address this issue in the review process, Kugler said staff has proposed some revised language to clarify the intent of this provision: "Exposed, unpainted or unstained lumber should not be utilized unless approved by the Director of the Department of Planning and Community Development." Kugler said staff recommends approval of the proposed ordinance amendments. Public discussion. Glenn Siders, representative of Southqate Development Company and the Iowa Citv Homebuilder's Association, said he is not certain that the redraft of the ordinance is any different than the original. If anything, it may be less flexible as it leaves discretion in the hands of one particular reviewer, the Director of the Department of Planning and Community Development. Siders stated again that no one has been able to provide the percentage of properties this ordinance is being created to address, Siders still felt relatively few developers are building the offensive structures, Siders said this ordinance is penalizing all for the mistakes of the few, Siders questioned the impression that stairwells will be made safer by enclosing them, as only a partial closure is being considered. Siders feels this partial enclosure will only Planning & Zoning Commission March 2, 1995 Page 14 make maintenance and ice and snow removal more difficult, as the closure will not allow sun exposure to help melt the ice and snow. For this reason, Siders said the so- called safety aspects of the amendments are a moot point. Siders questioned what exposed lumber meant and asked whether exposed lumber refers to a two-by-two handrail or guardrail system, does this need to be covered, etc. Siders said due to this ordinance, a stain or finish will often be applied to wolmanized lumber that will look more offensive than the lumber itself. Siders noted that paints or finishes do not apply to treated lumber very well and will often need repainting within three or four years. Finishes often do not apply well until the lumber has had the opportunity to weather for about two years. Siders was willing to bet that 95% of homeowners, regardless of the price of the home, are constructing decks and porches with unfinished, treated lumber, and yet these people do not feel that it is offensive. Mike Hodqe, representative of the Iowa City Homebuilder's Association, said he was concerned about structural integrity if wolmanized lumber is not used. Hodge said that over time the wolmanized lumber is going to hold up a lot better. Gibson said the intent of this ordinance is to prevent the construction of these offensive exterior structures, and asked whether Siders or Hodge would prefer not to have these sort of protections built into the system. He said wolmanized lumber may be appropriate for decks and porches on single-family homes, but not for large three- and four-story stairwells on apartment buildings. Gibson said it is an aesthetic issue and how materials are being used, not so much the type of material being used. Siders and Hodge agreed, and added that it is even part of code that wolmanized lumber must be used in certain parts of the structure. Gibson asked Siders and Hodge what they would have the City do to prevent this abuse of constructing a building with multi-level unfinished lumber stairways. Neither Siders or Hodge were able to provide any new suggestions. Scott noted that the motion to exclude wolmanized lumber did not pass at the last meeting. He did not feel that the exclusion of wolmanized wood, per se, was the issue. Scott said the intent of this ordinance is simply to provide some design review. Scott felt wolmanized wood is appropriate for the steps, although he would not care to see wolmanized wood used in the cover structure of stairwells. He thought other materials were more appropriate in these instances. Scott was unsure as to how this could be incorporated into the ordinance, however. Public discussion closed. MOTION: Bovbjerg moved to approve an ordinance amending City Code Title 14, Chapter 5, entitled "Building and Housing," Article H, entitled "Site Plan Review," by -adopting design guidelines for exterior stairwells and exterior corridors on multi-family residential buildings, Gibson seconded, Planning & Zoning Commission March 2, 1995 Page 15 Scott stated again his feeling that wolmanized wood is really not the issue and should be allowed on stairwells and decking, although he would not care to see wolmanized wood used in the cover structure of stairwells and corridors. He said other materials, such as brick, are more appropriate in these instances and need to be architecturally incorporated into the overall design of the building. Scott said this ordinance should not create a problem for the majority of developers, so long as consideration is put into the appearance of these exterior structures in relation to the overall design of the structure. Jakobsen said she intended to vote against the ordinance, because she thought it would vest too much decision-making authority in one office. Jakobsen said she is not in favor of dictating design. The motion carried on a vote of 4-1, with Jakobsen voting no. Public discussion of amendments to City Code Title 14, Chapter 6, Article N, entitled "Off Street Parking and Loading," to reduce the amount of off-street parking spaces required in the CN-1, Neighborhood Commercial zone. Kugler handed out and explained the revised text amendments to the proposal. Kugler said staff concerns about the amount of parking currently required for uses being established in the CN-1 zone were presented at the February 13 and 16, 1995, Planning and Zoning Commission meetings. At that time, the Commission expressed an interest in reducing the amount of required parking for most uses by one third, and not allowing more than 110% of the required parking to be provided on-site, as recommended by staff. The proposal was based on the unique nature and intent of the CN-1 zone, the limited market area that the CN-1 zone is intended to serve, a review of the neighborhood commercial parking requirements of other cities, and a survey of existing commercial areas within Iowa City with respect to the use of their parking facilities. In addition to reducing the required parking by one-third, Kugler said provisions for relaxing certain parking requirements in the CN-1 zone have also been incorporated into the proposed amendments. Shared parking arrangements would be permitted between uses that experience peak parking demand at different times of the day. Provisions for the administrative approval of land banking of required parking, or the setting aside of undeveloped land such that it could be used for parking in the future, as the need arises, have also been added. Both of these items should reduce the overall paved area of CN-1 zones. In addition, as a result of the Windsor Ridge development, alternative parking designs allowing parking spaces to be accessed directly off of drives would be permitted if it is determined to be an integral part of the design of the development. Kugler said staff recommends that the proposed amendments to City Code Title 14, Chapter 6, Article N, entitled "Off Street Parking and Loading," to reduce the amount of off-street perking spaces required in the CN-1, Neighborhood Commercial zone, be approved. Planning & Zoning Commission March 2, 1995 Page 16 Public discussion, There was none. Public discussion closed. Scott asked why the place where administrative authority rests was changed. Kugler said simply because at the time of the informal Planning and Zoning Commission meeting on Monday, this language had not yet been run by Joint Staff. He said it was unclear as to whether this should be made specific or left more general. MOTION: Bovbjerg moved to adopt the amendments to City Code Title 14, Chapter 6, Article N, entitled "Off Street Parking and Loading," to reduce the amount of off- street parking spaces required in the CN-1, Neighborhood Commercial zone. Jakobsen seconded, .MOTION: Bovbjerg moved to amend the main motion, that the new Section 14-6N-11- 1, state that administrative review shall fall under the jurisdiction of the Director of the Department of Planning and Community Development or designee, rather than the City Manager or designee, Jakobsen seconded. The motion on the amendment to the main motion carried on a vote of 5-0. The main motion, as amended, carried on a vote of 5-0, Public discussion of an ordinance amending City Code Title 14, Chapter 6, Article L, entitled "Provisional Uses and Special Exceptions," to modify the access requirements for neighborhood centers. Miklo said staff recommended that City Code Section 14-6L-1M1 be amended to repeal the provision that neighborhood centers shall be located with access to arterial or collector streets. The Board of Adjustment will determine whether the Neighborhood Center is appropriate in the medium density residential zones and review such special exception requests with regard to the impact of proposed uses on adjacent properties, including potential traffic generation and conflicts. Public discussion, There was none. Public discussion closed. MOTION: Bovbjerg moved to approve amendments to City Code Section 14-6L-1M, that item one, the provision that neighborhood centers shall be located with access to arterial or collector streets, be repealed. Jakobaen seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 5-0. Planning & Zoning Commission March 2, 1995 Page 17 CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES OF THE FEBRUARY 16, 1995, PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION MEETING: MOTION: Jakobsen moved to approve the minutes of the February 16, 1995, meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission, as printed. Starr seconded, The motion carried on a vote of 4-0-1, with Gibson abstalnin~. PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION INFORMATION: Scott said Jakobsen has been appointed to the Near South Side Advisory Committee to represent the Planning and Zoning Commission. Scott said the City Council will make appointments for the two vacant spots on the Commission at its meeting of March 7, 1995. Scott said to achieve balanced representation on the Commission, he had already spoken to a representative of the Grant Wood Neighborhood Association and intended to speak to at least one other neighborhood group regarding the vacancies. Miklo said two applications had been received from Grant Wood Neighborhood residents. Scott asked whether the Idyllwild development was not an OPDH, as he felt the streetscape had been altered from what the Commission had approved. Staff said they would check on this. Gibson noted when he was in Kansas City recently, he had passed by the Banister Mall complex, where a Red Lobster restaurant was located separate from the main mall structure. Gibson said he was able to see three sides of this restaurant and only one small, white sign that advertised this restaurant. Gibson said this conflicts with statements made by representatives of Red Lobster, that a standard sign is used in all of their restaurants and no alternatives are available. Scott reminded the Commission of the American Planning Association Conference to be held in Des Moines, on March 30 and 31, 1995. Several Commission members noted interest in attending, Miklo said that Commissioners should contact him and he would make arrangements for them to attend, Jakobsen said she will not be present at the informal meeting on March 13, 1995. Scott said he will not be present at the formal meeting on March 16, 1995. Starr said he will likely be absent the rest of March. OTHER BUSINESS: There was none. Planning & Zoning Commission March 2, 1995 Page 18 ADJOURNMENT: MOTION: Gibson moved to adjourn at 11:00 p.m. Bovbjerg seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 5-0. George Starr, Secretary Minutes submitted by Jeff Haring. 22° COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY NEEDS WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25, 1995 - 6:30 P.M. SENIOR CENTER - LOWER LEVEL CLASSROOM FEB 2 2 MEMBERS PRESENT: Grace Cooper, MaryAnn Dennis, John Falb, Jim Harris, Linda Murray, Marls Snider, Rusty Martin, Christina Randall, Gretchen Schmuch MEMBERS ABSENT: Keith Ruff, Lisa Engh STAFF PRESENT: Karin Franklin, Marianne Milkman, Steve Long, Jeff Haring OTHERS PRESENT: Linda Severson, Elizabeth Swenson CAL'L TO ORDER: Chairperson Dennis called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM DECEMBER 21, 1994: MOTION: Falb moved to approve the minutes of the December 21, 1994, meeting of the Committee on Community Needs, as amended. Harris seconded. Randall said page four, the second paragraph, should say "Randall said the matter had been discussed...", instead of Murray. Randall said the last sentence, same paragraph, should say Milkman instead of Randall. Page three, the heading should say CITY STEPS. Update, instead of City Staff Update. Murray asked that page one, third paragraph, be clarified and shortened. Milkman and Martin suggested, "The task force last year wanted to keep people who could benefit from the Senior Center and its activities, at the Senior Center"; the rest of the original sentence can be added as an additional sentence, Dennis, page one, fourth paragraph, asked whether it was a consensus that the ADP belongs in the Senior Center. Several members responded that it was never the consensus of the Committee that the ADP belongs in the Senior Center. Martin wished to clarify that the ADP Task Force Ires never said it would prefer to have the ADP out of the Senior Center, but there is no more space. Martin said that a year ago the program worked with 18 clients but was forced to reduce to 11 clients due to State regulations regarding the required square footage per individual; this is not a cost effective way to run the program. Martin added, that on paper an apparently declining program does not look good when applying for grants. Milkman suggested that the sentence read, "It was a consensus of the last CCN meeting that such a program belongs in the Senior Center if the level of service that is currently being provided, is maintained, and there be no reduction in space". The Commission agreed. Murray, page two, last paragraph, midway, asked that the sentence read, "Milkman said the discussion centered around eight households,..". Randall, same paragraph, farther down, the sentence starting with "Randall said", asked that the word if be added, the "would" be removed, and the "and" after Iowa City, be removed. Dennis, page three, second paragraph under CITY STEPS Update, sentence starting with, "Randall said in 3D...", asked that the word livin.q be added and the word after "minimum" removed. Committee on Community Needs January 25, 1995 Page 2 Page four, under Strategies, first paragraph, Dennis said in the fifth sentence the name "Engh", should be replaced with Dennis. Dennis said the second paragraph under Strategies, midway down, the sentence starting with "Murray" should say Randall. Same page, first paragraph under Joint Hearing, the fourth sentence should read, "The Housing Commission in the past has just made recommendations to CCN on what housing related projects they think should be funded", adding the words housin.~ related. The motion carried on a vote of 9-O. PUBLIC/MEMBER DISCUSSION: Long handed out copies of the Citizens' Summary of the City of Iowa City, 1996-98 Proposed Financial Plan. CITY COUNCIL UPDATE: Milkman said any member of a City Board or Commission is invited to attend the City Council work session of February 6, 1995, to discuss Board or Commission budget matters. Milkman asked that written suggestions be submitted to the City Manager by 5:00 p.m., February 2, 1995. Dennis suggested that Committee members contact her regarding budget matters in order to funnel and combine Committee comments and suggestions, then these comments will be forwarded. Dennis read a list of applicants for CCN openings, these include: Lynn $tamus, Mary Clemm, Tim Ruxton, Elizabeth Hudson, Gretchen Schmuch, Rusty Martin, and John Koza. Council will make appointments on January 31, 1995. Milkman noted that the term of appointments for Schmuch and Martin end April 1, 1995, unless reappointments are made. Dennis read the openings on other City Boards and Commissions. HOUSING COMMISSION UPDATE: Jim Harris, acting Housing Commission liaison to CCN, updated the Committee on Housing Commission activities. Harris said that many of those who have been awarded housing vouchers have not found a unit largely because of lack of assistance in locating housing. Harris said he has been in contact with Ron Henderson and Mike Seales, among others, attempting to budget $35,000 for an additional full time staff person. Harris said he has been preparing for the City Council work session of February 6, 1995, in which City Board and Commission budget matters will be discussed and in which Council will receive at the least a written request. Harris said he is pleased with the responses he has been receiving to date. Harris introduced Elizabeth Swenson, a new member of the Housing Commission, and said Swenson is a candidate for the position of Housing Commission liaison to CCN. Committee on Community Needs January 25, 1995 Page 3 DISCUSSION OF THE IOWA CITY BEYOND 2000 VISION PLAN: Karin Franklin briefed the Commission on the Beyond 2000 Vision Plan. Franklin said three or four aspects of the plan are of particular interest to the C. ommittee on Community Needs, the general, introductory statement of the Plan; the Housing section; the Social Services section; and the economic weIFbeing section. Franklin said a major objective of the plan is the achievement of a community that emphasizes diversity in people, diversity in housing -- including diversity in housing types and diversity in socio-economic classes within neighborhoods, accessibility -- both physical and financial, and the environment. Franklin said one thing to keep in mind is that this document sets out many of the objectives, or visions, on what we want the community to achieve, but it is not very clear about what means will be utilized to meet tl~ose objectives. Franklin hopes that much of the specifics about the methods utilized will ultimately evolve through discussions, mostly at the City Board and Commission level, like the Planning and Zoning Commission. Franklin said many strategies had already been suggested in the discussions of the various task forces, but said these strategies are intended to be released to the Boards or Commissions concerned with these issues at a later date. Martin stated that he tends to work more effectively when specific programs or methods are put before him, rather than dealing with broad theoretical statements. Martin said that he hopes real specific, advocacy of specific points of view will be voiced at some point through- out this process and that many of these points of view will come from very diverse and broad areas, rather than strictly hearing from local experts and hearing conventional wisdom. Martin said no one will be forced to adopt what they hear, he just hopes new methods of achieving the goals might be expressed. Martin also feels the University should have the opportunity to be involved in this process. The Commission appeared relatively open to these points of view. Franklin said that every Board and Commission is welcome to hear from experts in their particular area, but expressed the desire that some closure will be attained from these discussions within a reasonable amount of time. Franklin said if anyone has any comments, feel free to contact her. CITY STEPS UPDATE: Randall said the CITY STEPS program was submitted to the City Council last week and that all of the Committee members were present. Randall said Pat Jordan from the Emergency Housing Project was present and made a few comments in regards to the plan. Jordan feels that Table 1 in the back of plan misrepresents the percentage of mentally ill homeless individu- als. Randall said she assumes that Jordan feels the amount should be higher. Randall said that Milkman had said it is a matter of how the Table must be set up, but said this variance will be explained in the narrative of the plan. - Randall said Jordan had also said she does not feel day shelter is a high priority. Randall said those present in the Strategies and Priorities meetings had heard many times that day shelter is a high need and decided to leave the issue as a high priority. Committee on Community Needs January 25, 1995 Page 4 Randall said Rosemary Friedrich also spoke about people with special needs. Not all mentally ill individuals are homeless, and these individuals deserve just as much consideration as those who are homeless. Milkman said these comments are in line with the recently released HUD guidelines, that the homeless mentally ill are considered in a separate category. DISCUSSION OF STRATEGIES AND PRIORITIES: Martin referred to the economics section and asked the status of the business incubation program. Long said the last recommendation, on page 27, refers to this subject. Martin said he is really interested in the business incubator program and asked that staff provide the Committee with an update on this program. Harris asked that staff also address the various types of business now in existence on the Oakdale campus, especially in regards to those on the business incubation program. Staff said they will talk to David Schoon, Economic Development Coordinator, about coming in and speaking to the Committee on these subjects. It was also mentioned that there had been discussion at the City Council work session meeting in regards to what defines a (iving wage, but that no change had been noted in the format of the document REVIEW OF CDBG/HOME ALLOCATION SCHEDULE: Milkman reviewed the CDBG and HOME allocation process. Milkman said, this year the Committee will be reviewing more applications than ever. Tl~e Committee will receive two separate sets of applications this year, those applying for CDBG funds, and those applying for HOME funds. Milkman said one difference between the two sources of funding is that HOME requires a greater amount of financial information from the applicant. Milkman said she hopes to have the applications ready to send out to the Committee members by early in the week of February 13th, so that the Committee members will have plenty of time to review before the first meeting on the February 22, 1995. Milkman said staff intends to schedule all housing related subjects for the meeting of February 22, 1995, in which the Housing Commission will also participate in discussion. Milkman said each application will be discussed for approximately 15 minutes and each applicant will be asked to limit discussion to 7-10 minutes with time for Committee discussion following. Milkman emphasized that it is vital that each Committee member read the applications beforehand as this will be virtually the only time in which to ask questions of the applicant before allocation night. Milkman said the Housing Commission would like to have a joint meeting with CCN on March 7, 1995, to discuss the applications as the Housing Commission will be making its allocation recommendations at its meeting of March 14, 1995. The Committee on Community Needs agreed to meet with the Housing Commission on March 7, 1995. Martin asked what he said is his perennial question, that the discussion and allocation meet- ings be videotaped and aired on Channel 4. Staff said they have been told there are problems with the logistics of the Senior Center room and videotaping, but said they can look into this, or schedule the meeting for the public library. Martin suggested that the tables be arranged in a U-shape, with the camera man positioned in the center. Committee on Community Needs January 25, 1995 Page 5 MOTION: Murray moved to videotape and air on Channel 4 the Committee on Community Needs, CDBG allocation meeting of March 22, 1995. Randall seconded. Cooper expressed reservation about videotaping this meeting as it may inhibit free and open discussion of the applications. Cooper felt she would prefer to make sound judgments without the fear of reprisal looming over head. The motion carried on a vote of 9-0. GREENVIEW UPDATE: Milkman reviewed the Greenview proposal and said that it appears Council will vote down the proposal at its meeting on Tuesday night (a super-majority of the Council members is needed for passage as more than 20% of the surrounding property owners have filed a formal petition of opposition), this will result in the question of what to do with the $420,000 in federal flood assistance monies. Long said the City must have a program decided upon and funds committed by August 15, 1 995, or the money will be returned. Dennis asked whether it is an option to allow Steve Bright and Sycamore Farms, Inc., to receive this money as Sycamore Farms has requested to participate and has adequate amounts of land already zoned RFBH. Milkman said the problem with this is that the City had gone through a Request for Proposal (RFP) process and one of the major stipulations was the desire on the part of the City to select a co-applicant with considerable manufactured housing park management experience. Milkman said Bright and Sycamore Farms had no experience. Murray suggested that CCN produce a statement, to read Tuesday nigh~ at the Council meeting, regarding the position of CCN in terms of use of flood monies previously reserved for Greenview. Murray mentioned land acquisition and/or down payment assistance as examples, but suggested that no specifics be mentioned to Council at this time. Milkman said that as this is emergency flood money, the money must be used to alleviate matters created or exacerbated by the flood. Dennis noted that it was CCN that had made the original recommendation that flood monies be used for land acquisition to move those presently residing in a floodplain out of the floodplain. It was the general consensus of the Committee that Dennis, Murray and Randall shall produce a statement to be read Tuesday night at the formal City Council meeting saying that the Committee on Community Needs would be happy to reexamine the issue of use of flood monies. ADULT DAY PROGRAM LOCATION TASK FORCE UPDATE: Martin reviewed the objectives and history of the Adult Day Program. Martin noted that a decision on the future location of the ADP will take place Tuesday at the Council meeting. MOTION: Murray moved to support the Adult Day Program Task Force recommendation, to seek additional space in the Senior Center for the Adult Day Program, and secondly, continue to look for a permanent location outside of the Senior Center. Randall seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 9-0. Committee on Community Needs January 25, 1995 Page 6 MONITORING REPORTS: City of Iowa City Rehab (MFH Fire Safety, Replacement). Dennis said the program is going exceptionally well. Dennis said, initially, 500 smoke detectors and 250 fire extinguishers had been ordered and these ar~ all gone. The program is now distribut- ing its second batch of 200 smoke detectors and 100 fire extinguishers. Dennis feels this program has been one of the better CDBG allocation recommendations. City/County United Way Hearings. Dennis said the hearings are over and that the United Way allocation process will occur within the next several weeks. 3. ESA Small Repair ProWlram. There was no report as Ruff was absent. Hillcrest Transitional Housin(~ Proqram. Martin said Hillcrest did not receive the grant for Supportive Housing, so the CDBG money allocated last year will be returned and reallocated this year. ISED. Murray said the program is going very well. A microenterprise class was developed in which twenty individuals had'participated and ten of these completed the program. Murray said one individual has already opened a children's consignment shop, located in West Liberty, and another individual will have an export business which will be operated out of his house. There will be a follow up study in one year to see if these people have succeeded. Murray said the program is being looked at by many in public administration as a means of getting people off of welfare. Murray said ISED will be returning to CCN for additional funding this spring. Neiqhborhood Centers, Dennis said the Executive Director of the program had re- signed; however, the construction project is moving along. Dennis said an interview process is under way for a new Executive Director. ADJOURNMENT: IVIOTION: Martin moved to adjourn at 9:12 p.m. Falb seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 9-0. Minutes submitted by Jeff Haring cdbg\mins\ccn 1-25 MINUTES IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES REGULAR MEETING 2ND FLOOR ADMINISTRATIVE CONFERENCE ROOM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1995- 5:00 PM Members Present; Margaret Cox, Jeri Hobart, Philip Hubbard, Katherine Moyers, Jesse Singerman, Anne Spencer(left 6:25), Chuck Traw Members Absent: Steve Greenleaf, Staff Present: Barb Black, Maeve Clark, Susan Craig, Larry Eckholt, Debb Green, Martha Lubaroff, Elizabeth Nichols CALL TO ORDER: Vice President Moyers called the meeting to order at 5:05 pm In consideration of the request for closed session to provide a six month evaluation of the library director, Moyers asked for a motion to go into closed session. A motion was made and seconded, Traw/Singerman. A roll call vote was taken during which all members present voted Aye. . The open Board meeting was reconvened at 5:30 pm APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Two exceptions were noted to the minutes; in the paragraph describing the six month output statistics, it was felt to be misleading to say that the library could continue to handle growth, even moderate, with the same staff. Board member Cox clarified the concern she had expressed about the recent Friedds/Foundation fundraising telephone solicitation. Her objection was not that a solicitor be aware that she had a giving history, but that, in her opinion, it would not enhance the fundraising effort. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: Director Evaluation. Spencer reviewed the process of evaluating the Director. The committee was comprised of Spencer, Singerman, Cox. An evaluation form was completed by Board members and the director. Based on those forms, they identified areas in which the Director has done exceedingly well, objectives for FY96 and responsibilities of the Board. A copy of this form will.be placed in Craig's personnel file. The Board met in closed session to review the report and discuss this evaluation with Director. They reported that it was felt she had performed in an exemplary fashion. Moyers thanked committee members and Director for her outstanding first six months. A new committee will be appointed next month and an annual evaluation will be completed before July 1. FY96 Budget Hearing followup. The question was raised of whether or not it would be fruitful for Board members to appear at the next public hearing in order to request additional staff again. Board members have already attended a presentation and have spoken individually to council members. City Manager's recommendation to Council would indicate that ongoing ICPL BOARD OF TRUSTEES FEBRUARY 23, 1995 PAGE 2 personnel positions would not be something that would be considered. It was decided not to attend the public hearing, Approve Calendar for FY96, The proposed calendar includes an Inservice Day on December 8, The issue of closing Thanksgiving eve at 6:00 pm due to very low attendance, and perhaps to consider being open on Easter Sunday since it is not a City Holiday were raised, This brought up a discussion about the feasibility of closing on Martin Luther King Day as a positive message to the community. If the preference was not to close, it was suggested that perhaps some special programming could be done that day, Craig explained that financially we could probably be open one more Sunday; either Easter Sunday or later in the spring. We could not afford more than one additional Sunday due to the fact that permanent staff'get paid overtime on Sundays, Traw stated that he was comfortable closing the evening before Thanksgiving at 6:00 pm, Board also agreed to closing December 8 for Inservice Day. Moyers would like the library to be open Sundays when public schools are in session. It was decided to table the Sunday question and discuss it as a budget issue for next year, Since overtime pay for Sundays is a contractual obligation, any changes in overtime for Sundays would have to be placed on the bargaining table. Traw made a motion to approve the calendar as proposed with the exception of closing at 6:00 pm the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Hobart seconded the motion. All members voted Aye, All other calendar issues will be discussed at budget time for possible changes to the FY97 calendar, NEW BUSINESS: Personnel Policy: In preparation of review of this Board policy, Moyers explained that much of the new policy language is copied from City policies, The policy was reviewed in sections, Traw moved to adopt 502.3 with the recommended changes. Hobart seconded. All Trustees voted aye. During the review of Section 502,4 Singerman asked Craig to give an example of how she might have the final authority to interpret and administer the contract. Craig gave an example of some scheduling issue that she might interpret from the contract, An employee might grieve her interpretation. This section was unanimously approved after a motion by Singerman/Cox Sections 502.5 - 502.12 were approved unanimously after a motion by Singerman/Spencer. Section 502.13- Grievance Procedure, A question about this section was raised at a previous review, The recommendation made in the past concerned involving the Board in the last step in the grievance procedure. Traw explained that the important thing was to give the individual an opportunity to be heard by a impartial group, Traw moved to amend 502.13(c)(2) by changing the third paragraph of subsection to read: "The grievant shall appoint one member, The first two members shall be current library employees and they shall appoint the third member who shall be a member of the library Board of Trustees." He also moved that we change the title of the City's Director of Human Relations to personnal administrator and delete the last paragraph, Hobart seconded, All but one voted aye. Authorization for funding property appraisal. The next step in determining the feasibility of expanding the building to the west, rather than up, is obtaining an appraisal of the property.The fee for this appraisal will be approximately ~5,500. Craig recommended that it ICPL 8CARD OF TRUSTEES FEBRUARY 23, 1995 PAGE 3 come from the Board's undesignated fund which has a balance of 919,000. Singerman moved to approve the expenditure of up to 95,500 from the Undesignated Gifts & Bequests fund for the appraisal of the Lenoch & Cilek building, Cox seconded, All voted Aye, STAFF REPORTS: 'rs Coordinator. At the time of the last meeting, we had interviewed four finalists and were prepared to offer the job of 'FS Coordinator to a candidate. The candidate turned down the offer because the salary did not meet her requirements. We are readvertising the position and we hope to have the position filled by May 1. Legislative Alerts: Craig reviewed the information sent in the packet, 1 ) Proposed legislation that would take the rights away of minors to use materials in the public library, Craig wrote a letter and has since heard that this particular issue will die. 2) a report that public libraries have been put back in the "National Guard proposal"; which is a proposal for funding Phase III of the Iowa Communications Network, 3) a news release indicating that library programs funded under federal LSCA grants could be cut. The State Library funds many programs with this federal money, Development Office report, Eckholt's report was included in packet, There were no questions, Eckholt informed the board that on June 17 the Friends Committee is planning a mystery dinner as a community fundraiser, This will coincide with other library related events during Arts Fest, Change March meeting to not conflict with spring break, The fourth Thursday in March occurs during Spring break. Traw moved to change the meeting date to March 30, Cox seconded it, All voted Aye, Miscellaneous. Craig informed the Board that she will be on cable public access television Sunday at 7:00 pm. on Channel 2 to talk about library issues. Johnson County supervisors, Smaller libraries in Johnson County have asked for increased funding and were turned down by the supervisors, Iowa City gets a 917,000 increase due to the fact that we have a contract, Coralville Public Library trustees are considering a charge to County users, A committee will be formed by the Supervisors to look at the funding issue for Johnson County libraries. It will consist of two supervisors, office assistant, and a member from each Board of Trustees. Communications: Ethel @1oesch of the Library School wrote a complimentary letter regarding the positive experience of practicum students here at ICPL. New Board member: An appointment will be made March 7. At this time there are three candidates who have applied, ICPL BOARD OF TRUSTEES FEBRUARY 23, 1995 PAGE 4 DISBURSEMENTS: Visa expenditures for January 1995 were reviewed Traw moved and Cox seconded approval of disbursements for January, 1995. All voted Aye Set agenda order for March meeting. The primary topic scheduled is a review of the Circulation and confidentiality and cardholder policy. Nichols prepared a packet of reading material that was distributed to the Board at this meeting in order to give Board members adequate time to review it. Nichols explained that the staff has spent a great deal of time at all levels working on this policy. Also at the next meeting a committee will be appointed to conduct the next review of the Director which will take place before July 1. ADJOURNMENT, Meeting was adjourned at 7:00 pm after a motion by Cox/Singerman Minutes taken and prepared by Martha Lubaroff. DRAFT MEMBERS PRESENT: MEMBERS ABSENT: STAFF PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: MINUTES BROADBAND TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION MONDAY, FEB. 20, 1995 LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM, CIVIC CENTER Trey Stevens, Cordell Jeppsen, Tim Finer Roger Christian, Eric Rothenbuhler, Shaffer, Brau, Helling, Hardy Beth Fisher, Rene Paine, Barbara Black, Doug Aliaire, Mary Jo Langhorne, Lida Cochran, Steven Hoch, Derek Maurer, Steve Wurtzler LIST OF MATTERS PENDING COMMISSION/COUNCIL DISPOSITION Cable TV refranchising/renewall. SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION Discussion centered on the proposals from the City Cable TV Office and PATV to hire a staff person to coordinate community programming. Helling noted that community programming will be a tangible, new service which can be pointed to as part of the return for the pass-through charges on subscriber's bills. Hardy outlined the City proposal, noting that the City currently provides a fair degree of community programming and that the existing administrative structures would facilitate success. There was agreement among the access channel providers that community programming will need to be a cooperative effort. There was consensus that the City is better suited to coordinate community programming given PATV's mission and the additional strain on their administrative responsibilities and resources. CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order a 5:35 P.M. .ANNOUNCEMENTS OF COMMISSIONERS None SHORT PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS DRAFT None COMMUNITY PROGRAMMING Allarie distributed PATV's draft Community. Programming proposal of 8/25/94 to further detail their proposal. Shaffer said the government channel's proposal provides a detailed description of what community programming is, why it is important, and how the government channel would provide it. Jeppsen inquired about a section of the government channel's proposal which refers to seeking additional outside funding. Shaffer said there is agreement that one staff person alone is not enough to adequately undertake community programming. As Aliatie had mentioned, it is anticipated that several organizations would contribute resources to the effort. Still, additional resources may be needed and instituting a low-cost charge-back system and pursuing grants are t¢~o methods of generating additional funds. It is not anticipated that there will be substantial sums available. Stevens said the section covering why community programming is important and needed dealt with a major concern of the Commission. Non- profit organizations often lack the experience and resources to produce programming and might not be able to produce a programming even with a great deal of support. The arrangement outlined in the government channel's proposal allows non-profits to get their message out. Hardy said the proposal was designed to meet the needs expressed in the refranchising needs assessments and those identified based on the experiences the government channel has with community organizations. Stevens asked about the role of, and the time commitment of, the oversight body. Hardy said the BTC was seen, at least initially, as the appropriate body to provide oversight, in part, because it has been a leader in promoting community programming. More time commitment would be needed in the beginning. The creation of a support group of those making use of community programming would also help to ensure that their needs are being met and the community is being served. In that sense, they too would provide oversight. Stevens noted that it is often difficult to recruit people to serve on boards and that making use of existing boards for oversight is preferable to DRAFf creating a new entity. Shaffer said one or two BTC members might serve on an oversight committee and report back to the BTC. Allarie said the PATV proposal had an advisory board made up of representatives of those programming access channels-the city, schools, the library, public access, and the.Senior Center. the Hardy said one problem has been that community groups have not perceived a clear process for utilizing community programming opportunities presently available. The support group would facilitate communication with community groups about the possibilities of community programming as well as provide a means of feedback. Finer asked about equipment needs and available resources. Hardy said some community programming is already being done by the government channel. The addition of a full time person to do community programming would be a good start. Additional time from the part-time staff and interns would also be needed. High quality equipment is available, but an increase in demand would necessitate additional equipment and possibly a studio. Shaffer said the proposal is to hire only one staff person and work them into an existing organization using existing equipment. Equipment needs will likely increase in the future. Hardy said the government channel gets 3-4 requests per month to produce a program for the community. The library and PATV also get requests. The creation of a centralized place for community programming will likely increase the demand. Given the amount of time different types of programs take to produce, at first there will be more coverage of meetings than say promotional videos or PSAs. Helling said that community programming will be a tangible, new service which can pointed to as part of the return for the pass-through charges on subscriber's bill. Stevens asked Hardy about possible problems scheduling community programming on the government channel and if there is a need for two channels. Hardy said initially what is presently available must be utilized. At sorue point after the rebuild community programming will have a separate channel. It is preferable to have one good video channel with substantive programming and a separate channel for Infovision. Aliaire said a new, separate channel gives the public more visible indication of DP, AFr what they are receiving as a part of the pass-through funds. A grand opening or launching of the channel might enhance that perception. Fisher said the demand for cablecasting events and meetings held in meeting room A is greater than can now be met. Stevens said covering those events would provide lots of programming and providing staff and resources to do so is a major goal. Hardy said the access channels don't have a clear identity in the public's perception. Moving into community programming may be an opportunity to clarify and rethink those identities. Merging of access activities may be desirable. The bulletin board, text oriented programming might be grouped together, for example. Jeppsen said that the lack of program listings is one area that is currently lacking for access channels. This makes viewing community programming more difficult. The government channel proposal does not provide an outreach plan. This needs to be addressed for community programming to be successful. Shaffer said discussions have been held on how the Community Programming Coordinator would develop outreach and promotion. Access channels have been unable to get their listings in the Press Citizen and this is a goal for community programming, iSaine said it appears that the City can accommodate community programming without disruption. It is unclear why PATV was asked to spend a great deal of time and effort working on a proposal. Stevens said the BTC had an idea of what it wanted to accomplish, but didn't know how to set it up. Some public access channels in other communities undertake community programming and PATV seemed a likely option. PATV was approached first to determine their interest and how they might take on community programming. That road was difficult for both PATV and the Commission. Because it may not be a good fit for PATV, especially given their mission, an alternative to the PATV structure was explored. The goal has remained the same. Hardy said the City proposal does not define PATV's role, but ideally community programming would facilitate cooperation among access channel providers. Stevens said that is important for that community programming be a cooperative effort. The best mechanism to lead and foster cooperation is a question which needs to be addressed. Aliaire said an advisory board of access channel providers, as outlined in PATV's proposal, would build in cooperation. Stevens said an advisory board should include community members rather than a board facilitating cooperation among access providers. Aliaire said the role of community programming coordinator should include directing the public to their options whether it be training by PATV, taping by the library, or having a program produced by the Community Programming Coordinator. Paine said PATV wants to contribute to a cooperative community programming effort. Aliaire said PATV is interested and willing to cooperate in the .effort. Stevens said the issue being addressed is the Community Programming Coordinator position and how to accomplish what the BTO wants to accomplish. Numerous things need to be done, but specific implementation issues can be worked out another time. Stevens noted that everyone seems to have reached consensus to work to implement the ideas presented in the City proposal. Shaffer said no formal recommendation is needed by the BTC to the Council. Implementation issues can be addressed after the franchise is negotiated. ADJOURNMENT It was moved by Finer and seconded by Jeppsen to adjourn. approved. Adjournment a 6:45 P.M. Unanimously Respectively submitted, Wm. Drew Shaffer Cable TV Administrator MINUTES DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE FEBRUARY 13, 1994- 3:30 P.M. CIVIC CENTER LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: Clara Swan, Larry Quigley, Nancy Footner, Karyl Larson, Laura Hawks, Gary Nagle MEMBERS ABSENT: Bill Nowysz, Gilda Six, Ruth Fox STAFF PRESENT: David Schoon GUESTS PRESENT: David Stookey, John Hieronymus, Wilfreda Hieronymus, Jay Oehler, Julie Spencer, George Mihalopoulos CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Hawks called the meeting to order at 4:07 p.m. REVIEW APPLICATIONS FOR CITY PLAZA VENDING PERMITS: Schoon said the city evaluates the vending carts each year as part of allocating permits. He said there are five spots available and five applicants this year. He said that a ranking 0 means that the design is unacceptable, while a 5 means that the design is excellent. He said in the past, each member of the committee gave the cart a score and then the rankings were aver- aged. Hawks said that the Committee could just discuss the cart and then reach a consensus. Schoon said the first cart was the Chicago Grill cart and the owner, Julie Spencer, was present at the meeting. Spencer said she wasn't positive that the colors shown in the picture would be the actual colors of the umbrella. She said she had a floral umbrella last year and she really liked that. She said she would have another cart on the plaza this year, and that this one has a longer grill which allows her to make more sandwiches at a time. Larson asked if Spencer planned on having the same shape to the umbrella. She said yes, but she wasn't sure about the coloring. Nagle said he liked the floral umbrella because it was very cheerful. Ouigley asked if the new cart would be same height and width of her other cart. She said it would be the same height, but it would be longer. Swan asked if the umbrella provided enough shading for Spencer in the summertime. Spencer said no, but she was under a shade tree so she stays comfortable. Swan asked if the new cart would be difficult to push. Spencer said the new cart will be easier to push than her existing one. Quigley said he didn't see any problems with the design. Hawks said the next cart was the gyros cart owned by George Mihalopoulos. Mihalopoulos said he would have a brand new cart this year. Larson said she thought the design was very nice. Schoon said the next cart was the Seattle Company cart. Design Review Committee February 13, 1995 Page 2 Stookey said the materials for his Orient Express cart would be formica. He said that he planned on a white formica table and probably a red taffeta awning. He said the lamps would be brass. Nagle asked how Stookey planned to do the finishing on the cart, and Stookey replied that he was a carpenter and he wanted the cart to have a nice, professional appear- ance. Swan asked if there was a way to weatherproof the taffeta. He said it will be Scotchguarded so that the awning will look nice. Stookey said that the budget allows for the awning to be replaced each year. Larson asked wh~t the lettering in the front said in Chinese. Stookey said it is a wish for love, prosperity, and luck. The New Pioneer Bakehouse representative said New Pioneer's cart is totally refurbished. She said there would be a canvas awning. She said there would a plexiglass container for their Bakehouse breads. The following table lists the individual and overall average ratings for each cart. CHICAGO GEORGE'S SEATrLE NEW ORIENTAL GRILL GYROS COFFEE PIONEER EXPRESS Nagle 4 4 4 4 5 Swan 5 5 5 5 5 Larson 4 5 4 5 5 Hawks 4 . 4 4 4 5 Quigley 4 4 4 5 5 Footnet 4 4 5 5 5 AVERAGE 4.17 4.33 4.33 4.5 5.0 UPDATE ON REVISING THE DESIGN REVIEW ORDINANCE: Schoon said he is still preparing the revised design review ordinance. He said he should have the revisions done for the next meeting. He said part of his revisions were to include the Committee's comments from the last meeting. DISCUSSION REGARDING NON-IOWA CITY RESIDENTS SERVING ON THE DESIGN RE- VIEW COMMITTEE: Hawks referred to the memo from the city clerk asking whether the committee was interested in changing it's by laws to (1) allow non-Iowa City residents to serve on the committee and (2) allow any unexpired term of six months or less to be advertised and filled as full term plus the unexpired 6 months. Nagle said the first amendment sounded like a good idea because the Committee had trouble finding members. Swan moved and Footner seconded to recommend to the Council Rules Committee to allow an unexpired term of six months or less to be adver- tised and filled as a full term plus the unexpired. The motion carried 6-0. Quigley moved and Swan seconded to recommend to the Council Rules Committee that non- Iowa City residents should be allowed to serve on the Committee, The motion carded 5-1, with Nagle voting no. Design Review Committee February 13, 1995 Page 3 DISCUSSION OF THE HIERONYMUS SQUARE PROJECT: Hawks said this item was on the agenda because some members had questions after the Committee's February 4th work session. Wilfreda Hieronymus said she wished the archite(;t for the project could have made the meeting. She said his mother had had surgery, but she hadn't heard from him that he would not make the meeting. Schoon said the issues discussed at the work session were the mass of the building and the lack of outdoor open space. He said there is large atdum in the center of the building which is not considered in the floor area ratio of the building. Wilfreda Hieronymus said that the atrium would be nice open space inside the building and provide a place for people to walk though as they do in the Old Capital Mall. She said that the developers are listing this building as Phase I of the project, and she would like to see the redevelopment go down the street to Dubuque St. She said she believes Iowa City needs a building with nice offices. She said the plan is for 2 floors of retail. She said she would be happy to answer any questions. Nagle said he didn't understand why the item was brought back to the Committee, because he thought they had settled the issue. Schoon said some members had some questions about the scale of the building. Schoon said that the ratio of floor area to lot area (FAR) is also a question. Nagle said that this is a staff problem, and not something he feels is a design problem. Swan said she thinks that scale is definitely a design problem. Schoon said that the Committee could recommend to the Planning and Zoning Commission that the FAR require- ments be changed. However, the developer has the right to construct her building under existing regulations. Quigley said that the aidurn would be nice, but it wouldn't be useful open space. Willreda Hieronymus said the city has a designer doing a streetscape design and so the outside of the building will be nice as well. She said that, if you don't allow people to reinvest in the down- town with a project like this, the downtown will decay. She said they will go to a lot of expense to place the windows to break down the scale of the building. Swan said she liked the fact the design was not a trendy building. Wilfreda Hieronymus said she wanted to tie into the design of the Pentacrest buildings. Larson asked Hieronymus whether the atrium would have a skylight. Wilfreda Hieronymus said she didn't want any dark offices inside the building, and that was the reason for the atrium, John Hieronymus said that the pedestrian .mall is not usable open space in February, while an enclosed atrium is usable space in any weather. Footner said that the type of activity in Old Capitol is much different than the type of events that take place in the pedestrian mall. She said that, in a mall, people are confronted with buying things. Nagle said he had no problem with the scale of the building.. He said he would like them to consider emphasizing the main entrance more than it was emphasized in the concept sketch. He suggested extending the canopy. Larson left the meeting at 5:00 p.m. Design Review Committee February 13, 1995 Page 4 Swan said she liked the color of the building very much. Wilfreda Hieronymus said she told the a~'chitect she did not want a building that was going to look dirty in a few years. Quigley said this is not the final review, and that a lot of the building appearance would depend on what the city did with the surrounding streetscape. Swan moved that the Committee stand by the general consensus that the Hiemnymus Square Project meets the general design guidelines of the Design Review Committee. Quigley seconded. The motion carried 5-0. DISCUSSION REGARDING PUBLIC AWARENESS OF DESIGN REVIEW & THE COMMiT- TEE ACTIVITIES AND COORDINATION/RELATiONSHIP WITH OTHER COMMUNITY : ORGANIZATIONS: Hawks said that all members should be involved in promoting public awareness of the Commit- tee. She said thai Fox was now on the slide show subcommittee. Swan volunteered for that subcommittee as well. Hawks said another idea would be to send a few members of the Committee to the Historic Preservation Commission meeting. She said that she would be interested in knowing how that Commission handles the demolition of buildings. Schoon said it may be beneficial to have a joint meeting with all the members of both groups. Hawks said that members were needed for the Design Awards subcommittee. Quigley said he was not yet on a subcommittee, so he would serve. Schoon said several city Commissions give out awards, including the Historic Preservation Commission. He said Quigley could use some of the information from those awards. COMMI'I-I'EE DISCUSSION: Schoon said that he's now trying to include a follow-up list with each Committee packet, Schoon said that a City Council member had asked him if the Design Review Committee would like to take over the Banner Program, which is to review the design on the banners and to administer hanging and removal of banners. He said the Convention and Visitor's Bureau handles the program now. The general consensus of the Committee was that the Committee was not interested in taking over the program. Schoon said that the Building Board of Appeals voled 6-1 to not recommend the design standards for exterior stairways. Schoon said it would be beneficial to have a representative at the Planning and Zoning Commission's meeting on Februan/ 16, 1995 at 7:30 p.m. Swan said she would go, but would like to have an architect go with her. Nagle said he would go if Nowysz was unable to attend. Hawks, said she would be able to represent the Committee at the City Council meeting, and would also like to have an architect help at the meeting. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 5:45'p.m. Minutes submitted by L. Schweitzer ecodev~ms\drc2.13.min MINUTES DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE MARCH 20, 1995 - 3:30 P.M. CIVIC CENTER LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: Clara Swan, Larry Quigley, Nancy Footner, Karyl Larson, Laura Hawks, Gary Nagle, Gilda Six, Ruth Fox IvlEMBERS ABSENT: Bill Nowysz STAFF PRESENT: David Schooa, Karin Franklin GUESTS PRESENT: Jay Oehler, Wilfreda Hieronymus, Cal Lewis RECOMMENDATIONS: By a vote of 8-0, the Committee recommends to the City Council that the City Council approve the design plans for the Hieronymus Square project as presented to the Committee at today's meeting. By a vote of 8-0, the Committee recommends to the City Council that the Burlington and Gilbert Street intersection improvements be delayed until the streetscape elements for the Near Southside Plan have been developed and approved, including design elements for street intersections. CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Hawks called the meeting to order at 4:03 p.m. FINAL REVIEW OF THE HIERONYMUS SOUARE PROJECT: Hawks introduced Cal Lewis to the group and then explained that the Committee needed to fortyard an fiual recommendation to the City Council. Lewis apologized for his absence at the last meeting. He said that the lie had been sick and there had been some miscommunication in his office so that Mrs. Hieronymus had not been contacted. Lewis said he tried to give a relatively thorough description of the project at the first review. He described the Iocati6n of the first phase, and then showed the location of the long term plans for Phase If. He said that he had tried to find a balance between the classic stone buildings of the major institutional buildings in the area, the smaller brick buildings, and the parking garages. He said that the scale of the project needs to command attention in relation to the parking ramps. Lewis showed a blueprint of the project and described the boundaries of the buildings and the lot. He said the plans regardlug the streetscape would coordinate with the City's plans as it establishes its streetscape plans. Fie said they do not have any specific landscaping plans yet for the ten foot setback, but would coordinate it with the City's streetscape plan. Ife said the building has an atrium in the center of the building to get daylight into the middle of the building. He said there would be a two story comer lobby. He said there would be a primary visual access and entry way parallel to Burlington Street. He said handicap accessibility will be to the front of the building. He said them is the possibility of individual accesses along Clinton Street in case there is a tenant that needs it own storefront entrance. He said the Gifted will take 3/Sths of the North elevation and would be the defining image of the Burlington Street side of the building. He said there is parking access off Clinton Street by means ofa txvo way driveway into the parking area beneath the building. He showed a cross section of the building and referred to a scale model to describe the location of the atrium. Design Review Committee March 20, 1995 Page 2 Quigley asked if there are bathrooms on the first floor. Lewis said no, there are bathrooms for the retail area on the second 'floor, which is standard practice in retail buildings. Lewis referred to the model and a material board. He said the two story lower level, the retail part, is mostly glass to display products. He said it is clearly de. fined from the upper floors, where a change in design denotes the beginning of the office space. He said the building windows are done in a manner to bring the scale of the building down. Lewis said there are two colors of brick used in the building. He said the base brick is used on the retail section. I-le said it has a little darker color than the other brick. He said they plan to use limestone as a visual accent, a tie into other buildings. He described the various frame materials. He said the aluminum would range between light anodizecl and dark anodized. He said the cornice and the sunscreen will be a translucent material and would be backlit from the sun and [it with lights at night. He said the north side of the building would be in shadows almost all the time, and so they designed the building to give the north side some extra relief. Lewis said there would be some painted surfaces in a neutral color range to match the bricks. He said all of the window glass is clear and would be a newer type of glass that keeps the ultra violet rays out to avoid heat buildup. Quigley asked if the spandral glass would reflect heat. Lewis said it would some, but not very much. Swan asked if the-darker brick would be in the upper level. Lewis said only in very small accent mounts. He said there are always subtle refinements to the design as the building gets closer to completion. Hawks asked about the treatment on the second floor on the north side of the building. Lewis said there would be glass, curtain wall, and spandral glass. He said there are show windows in the second floor. Frm~klin asked if the entire first two stories are all windows. He said no, he said there would be curtain walls and window frmning. He said the lighter color frmnes will probably be on the retail levels and the darker color frames would be on the higher sections. Nagle asked if Lewis was planning to have the plain steel frame. Lewis said that the frame would be in a standard building vocabulary. He said the decoration would be in the natural way the various materials are put together. Franklin asked if there were any plaits about what they were going to do with the 10 foot setback. He said there were waiting to see what the city had planned for the streetscape, but he said there would definitely be lights in the soffit area. Lewis said they were trying to use lighting to accent the important parts of the building and bring attention to the entry ways and individual retailers. Schoon asked about the treatment under the windows at the street level as the grade changes on Burlington Street. Lewis said they are planning to use the dark brick, but had thought about using black granite. He said it would not be bare concrete. Swan said that she has concerns about the use of the display windows on the second floor given the experience at Old Capitol Mall. Lewis said a lot oftbis depends on the attitude toward retail. He said the tenants usually do a pretty good job of composing their windows in a way that is acceptable and attractive in the prescribed frame of the design. Nagle asked about signage. Lewis said that the building's signage would be plastic and metal, and the tenant's signage would be inside the building within the glass line. l-le said they want it to be Hiemnymus Square first and then the individual tenant's space. Nagle asked whether any additional Design Review Conunittee March 20, 1995 Page 3 exterior signage not shown on the plan would bare to come before the Committee. Schoon said exterior signage would need to come before the Committee. Franklin asked about characteristics of uniformity Lewis was thinking about in signage. Lewis said he was willing to listen to the city's suggestions. He said lie thought uniformity in location and size would be the best. He said he thinks that signs can add life to a building as long as it fits into the scale of the building. Lewis said he did not think exterior signage would be appropriate. Six said the third floor is all windows. Lewis said that a little over 60% of the surface is windows. He said that a lot of modem buildings are 100% windows. He said they limited the number of windows. He said that the middle section of the windows is not clear glass, but is actually part of the window frame. Fox asked where the garbage collection and loading dock area would be. He said the dumpstem are inside at the rear of the building. Nagle asked about the penthouse materials. Lewis said it would be neutral plaster in an e.i.f.s. (exterior insulation systems - an insulation material with thin plaster coat so it looks like a plaster wall). Swan asked how Lewis characterized the style of building. Lewis said he was trying to create a nice sense of scale. Swan said she sees a modem look similar to Things and Things. Lewis said Freda wanted to do something special that fit into the scale and feeling of the Iowa City downtown. Swan asked if there are going to be semi tracks serving the building. Lewis said there ~vould be a usable alley and that most deliveries would be by smaller trucks anyway. Franklin asked if there is still a driveway to the parking area on the east side of the building. He said there was a drop off for the building, but the east side entrance driveway had been taken out. She asked what they were planning for parking for Phase II. He described several options based on the fact that the grade of the land slopes from west to east. Swan asked if there was any public parking. Lewis said the project provide parking for tenants and the project would pay the parking impact fee. Sxvan said the parking in this area is pretty overloaded. Franklin said there is space available in the Dubuque street ramp, which is diagoual from the project. Swan stated concerns regarding cars dropping off passengers along Burlington Street. Quigley asked about the site being a former gas station and underground storage tanks. Lewis said they are in the midst of doing environmental testing to meet state requirements. Quigley questioned whether the canopy meets the requirements of a canopy, because it appeam to extend to the second floor. Lewis demonstrated that the canopy does meet tire requirements. Fox moved and Six secotided a motion that the City Council approve the design plan as presented to the Committee at today's meeting. The motion carried 8-0. REVIEW PROPOSED BURLINGTON AND GILBERT STREETS INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS: Schoon introduced Jeff McClure from the engineering division. McClure said they were adding signalized left turning lanes on these two streets. He reviewed his March 15, 1995, memo to the Committee explaining the improvement project and the issue at hand regarding what to do with the Design Review Committee March 20, 1995 Page 4 parkways. That is they are going to be removing 17 of the existing 27 trees and will have difficulty raplacing the trees due to the limited amount of available parkway. The question at hand is where along the project should they attempt to provide trees and where should they pave the parkway. Nagle asked how this is going to tie in with the Near Southside Redevelopment Plan. Nagle said it seems to be a waste to pnt in the improvements before the streetscape plan is prepared. In particular, the draft streetscape plan the Committee reviewed discussed special crosswalk treatments at Burlington Street intersections. Schoon explained that the streetscape plan has not been adopted and in fact the City is in the process of hiring a consultant to perform a broad scale design plan for the Near Southside Neighborhood, which will include streetscape elements. He said this design plan will not be ready until the end of the year, arid when and how the plan will be implemented will not be known until sometime after the end of the year. Regarding the parkway issues, the Committee may wish to recommend that a limited amount of work be done in the parkways until such time as a streetscape plan is to be implemented. Nagle asked if tiffs project can be put off until the implementation of the design plan. Nagle said if there are going to be street designs for the Near Southside plan there should at least be a consensus on the design concept for the Southside plan so that it can be carried into this intersection. In response to a comment from McClure regarding widening the street as wide as they can, Nagle said the draft streetscape plan showed pavers in the street intersections. Hawks agreed. McClure stated the proposed project is based on safeW issues given the fact that this intersection has the highest accident rate in the city. Quigley said he did not like tile idea of taking out the trees. McClure said they do not have any choice on the trees, because there is too little room after the street is widened. Nagle moved that the Committee recommend to the Ciw Council that the Burlington and Gilbert Street intersection improvements be delayed until the streetscape elements for the Near Southside Plan have beea developed and approved, including design elements for street intersections. Larson seconded. The motion carried 8-0. Fox said that the safety issue at the intersection is the most important issue, and that after the safety issue we should try to save as many trees as possible. McClure said then were sight distance issues and that there is not enough room for trees to mature io. Quigley said that he was for keeping the trees as long as possible. Swan said that she would like to see the brick incorporated in the parkway improvements. Hawks said she has a problem with bricks as they are slick. McClure stated bricks are more expensive and have much higher maintenance cost than the exposed aggregate concrete. Nagle asked if it were possible to wait on making a recommendation on the parkway issues until the City Council has had an opportnnity to bear the Committee's recommendation on the overall streetscape issue. Swan moved to defer the item to the next nineting. Six seconded. The motion carried 8-0. McClure briefly continued to describe what the present plans are regarding parkway improvements. He said that the engineering staff will continue with firelf plans unless they hear differently from the City Council. Hawks stated that the Committee would be forwarding a memo on this issue to the City Council and asked if Nagle would attend the City Council meeting at which this item is discussed. Nagle said that Design Review Committee IVlarch 20, 1995 Page 5 he could go to the meeting. DISCUSSION OF PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT'S REOUEST FOR INPUT REGARDING THE PLAYGROUND EOUIPMENT IN THE DOWNTOWN PLAZA: Hawks said that the Committee will respond to the questionnaire from the Parks and Recreation Department. After much discussion the Committee agreed to send the following comments: the new playground equipment should be lower to the ground than the existing playground equipment; there should be a larger safeW area around the playground equipment; the new playground equipment should have wood incorporated into its design; the trees in the area should be saved as small children should play in the shade rather than the sun - the Committee would prefer a smaller play area rather than removing trees; the design of the new playground equipment should tie into the other furnishings in the Plaza. Fox asked if the Committee would see the new design before it is constructed. Schoon said they would. Footnet left at 5:50 p.m. UPDATE REGARDING DESIGN STANDARDS FOR EXTERIOR STAIRWELLS AND EXTERIOR CORRIDORS: Schoon said the Planning and Zoning Commission had staff rewrite portions of the design standards ordinance amendment. He said prior to the rewrite, if the applicant met the design standards, the applicant would get approval. He said it now reads that the Director will take these standards into consideration when approving the project. Schoon said that the Building Board of Appeals recommended against adoption of tbe design standards. Nagle said that the door is open for a lot of discretion, because the standards read "should" rather than "shall". Schoon said it has gone from requirements to guidelines, similar to the design review guidelines. Hawks said that it seems there could be a way around the proposed standards. She said that it wohld be nice to get at addressing the issue in a fair and clear fashion, because the standards seem unclear. Nagte said he felt the issue was totally an economic one for developers, and that it was much cheaper to just slap up something with wolmanized lumber. Fox said that the standards should apply to every one, and the standards should say shall rathar than should. The Committee discussed having representatives at the Council meetings on April 10th and April I Itb. CONSIDER APPOINTING A REPRESENTATIVE TO THE NEAR SOUTHSIDE DESIGN PLAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE: Hawks asked for a volunteer. After no one volunteered, Hawks volunteered to be the Committee's representative. Nagle asked if he could go as well. Schoon clarified that Hawks would be the actual representative, but any oue could attend the meeting as the meetings will be open to the public. UPDATE REGARDING REVISING THE DESIGN REVIEW ORDINANCE: Schoon said that the ordinance is still being revised and that this ordinance will contain both major and minor reviews as the Committee has been discussing. He said staff may be recommending that the Committee not divide projects between major and minor reviews. Design Review Committee March 20, 1995 Page 6 CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES OF THE FEBRUARY 13, 1995 MEETING: Nagle moved and Quigley seconded that the minutes of the February 13, 1995, meeting be approved. Hawks noted that Jay Oehler was a guest present at the last meeting but was not listed. The minutes were approved as amended, by a vote of %0. COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: Hawks started to review projects on the Committee's status list. Fox, Swan, and Quigley are to begin work on a design slide show or a design video. Hawks said it would be nice to incorporate the design review standards into'the slide show or video on how the standards and ordinance would impact structures. Schoon said he has talked with the Historic Preservation Commission staff person. The Commission does not wish to meet with the Committee prior to the Commission's May meeting, because it is working on its awards program at this time. Swan recommended that as many members as possible go to the Historic Preservation awards ceremony as the ceremony is very enlightening. Hawks said thero were a few letters that need drafting. Fox said she would draft a letter to Hills Bank regarding i~s clfangeable copy sign. Swan said she would draft a letter to the Sports Column regarding the nice job they did on their facade. Nowysz was assigned the task of drafting a letter to the owner of the property on the southeast comer of Linn and Washington Streets. Schoon briefly updated the Committee regarding sidewalk cafes. He said at this point in time there have been no major changes from the existing regulations except that under the proposal alcohol could be served in sidewalk cafes located outside of the Plaza. Cafes on the Plaza can already serve alcohol. Schoon will keep the Committee informed regarding this issue. PUBLIC DISCUSSION: There were no comments. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 6:30 p.m. Minutes submitted by L. Schxveitzer RULES COMMITTEE MEETING March 27, 1995 RULES COMMITTEE: Meeting of March 27, 1995, 6:00 p.m. COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT: Horowitz, Kubby STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT: Karr Board of Appeals By-laws= The Rules Committee unanimously recommends approval of By-laws as presented with two changes as follows in Article II. A) B) Section 1. Membership., Second sentence should end after Iowa City and striking "but not regular employees of the City." Section 2, Buildinq Official, to read "The Building Official shall act as secretary to the Board." Striking "shall be an ex officio member and" and "but shall have no vote on any matters before the Board." Boards and Commissions= The Committee reviewed the feedback received Commissions on the following two issues: from Boards and 1) Combining a full term to any unexpired term of 6 months or less. 2) Eligible electors of the City vs. County electors being on Boards & Commissions. After discussion the committee recommended unanimously as follows: 1) To direct all City Boards and Commissions to amend their by-laws to allow the combining of 6 months or less vacancies to a full term providing this change did not conflict with the State code (i.e. Airport Commission, Board of Library Trustees, etc.) 2) In recognition of the importance of consistency within all City Boards and Commissions require membership be limited to residents of Iowa City unless County representation is desirable in recognition of a county budget contribution. The Committee recognizes the recent non-resident appointment to Design Review, and suggests the non-resident by-laws be changed but the member complete the term. Meeting adjourned at 6:15 p.m.