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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1995-09-26 Bd Comm minutesMINUTES PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION AUGUST 9, 1995 MEMBERS PRESENT: John Beasley, Deb Liddell, John Pelton, Dee Vanderhoef MEMBERS ABSENT: Jana Egeland, Judith Klink, Bruce Pacha STAFF PRESENT: Terry Trueblood, Bob Howell, Azakia taker) GUESTS: Ellen Sueppel, Dr. J. Max Shirley Rex Pruess, Maurer, Matt Owen (minute FORMAL ACTION TAKEN A quorum was not established until 5:55 p.m. No votes were taken until after that time. Moved by Liddell, seconded b~y Beasle¥, to approve the July 12. 1995 minutes as written. Unanimous. Moved by Beasley, seconded bV Pelton, to approve use of a portion of Hickory Hill Park for softball during the Iowa City Fall Fun Festival, under the same conditions as the previous three years. Unanimous. Moved by Liddell, seconded by Pruess, to approve Iowa City Girls' Softball request to build an addition to the Napoelon Park rest room building. Unanimous. Moved by Liddell, seconded by Pelton, to inforl~ the Planning and Zoning Commission that the Parks & Recreation Commission is still interested in preserving the strip of land between the Iowa River and Sand Lake for trail purposes. The motion carried. 4-0-1. with Beasley abstaining. PUBLIC DISCUSSION Trueblood introduced Dr. J. Max Shirley, retired professor in Parks and Recreation Administration from the University of Northern Colorado. NEIGHBORHOOD OPEN SPACE OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Vanderhoef requested input relative to the June 28, 1995 draft of "Neighborhood Open Space Objectives and Strategies." Pruess requested a change on page 2, objective 4, in the Wetherby District to read... "Connect the Taylor Drive and Briar Drive sidewalks through Wetherby Park, and also connect to the sidewalk which leads to the shelter from the parking lot." There was consensus to make this change. REOUEST FROM IOWA CITY FALL FUN FESTIVAL RE USE OF HICKORY HILL PARK Ellen Suepp~l was present to request the use of a portion of Hickory Hill Park to accommodate some of the softball games that are a part of the Iowa City Fall Fun Festival. This has been allowed in the past, and it was indicated that hopefully this will be the last year the park will be needed. Sueppel said the area would be policed for alcohol, and the festival committee would keep the area clean, mow it and erect a temporary fence up around the area when in use. There have been no complaints about the area in the past, and the~ do keep it clean. Moved by Beasley. seconded by Pelton. to approve use of a portion of Hickory Hill Park for softball during the Iowa City Fall Fun Festival, under the same conditions as the previous three years. Unanimous. IOWA CITY GIRLS' SOFTBALL PROPOSAL FOR ADDITION TO NAPOLEON PARK REST ROOM BUILDING Liddell wondered if the proposed concession stand structure would be affected by future sewer line construction. Trueblood confirmed that the structure is not in the line of construction. Liddell raised concerns about endorsing a "privatized" building; for example, Boys and Babe Ruth Baseball. Trueblood noted that Boys and Babe Ruth Baseball do have exciusive use of concession stands to raise money for their respective organizations. He believes that volunteer organizations need this privilege in order to help finance their operation, and maintain viable programs for the community. He also indicated that the building will be owned by the City; therefore, the City can exercise control over it if need be. Trueblood noted that Girls' Softball would pay for the construction of this permanent structure for their use, but, like Boys' Baseball, there is not a written agreement that specifies exclusive use. Moved by Liddell, seconded by Pruess, to a~prove Iowa City Girls' Softball request to build an addition to the Napoelon Park rest room building. Unanimous. NEIGHBORHOOD OPEN SPACE ISSUES/ACOUISITIONS S2%ND LAKE TRAIL: Trueblood reported that the Planning and Zoning Commission and staff would like an indication as to whether or not the Parks and Recreation Commission was still interested in acquiring the strip of land between the Iowa River and Sand Lake, just south of Highway 6. The land is now owned by Southgate Development. Beasley indicated he would be abstaining because his employer performs legal work for Southgate. Vanderhoef indicated she is for keeping the land for a public trail, and to encourage Southgate not to fill in the lake. Beasley interjected that no motion including restrictions or alterations to the lake should be made since this was not a specific agenda item. He asked that the issue be whether or not Parks and Recreation still has 2 an interest in the use of that strip of land for a trail. Pruess agreed that the Commission should have strong interest in securing the land, but was not sure the proposal should include restrictions on land use. Trueblood indicated that the only thing needed from the Commission at this time was their feeling about preserving the land for a trail, either through acquisition or easement. Moved by Liddell, secondedby Pelton, to inform the Planning and Zoning Commission that the Parks & Recreation Commission is still interested in preserving the stri~ of land between the Iow~ River and Sand Lake for trail purposes. The motion carried, 4-0-1. with Beasley abstaining. Neuzil Property: Trueblood indicated that he needs an indication from the Commission relative to their thoughts in pursuing acquisition of this property, which is located adjacent to University Heights. He reported that the Neighborhood Open Space Plan shows a deficit of 7.29 acres. The Commission members indicated they are interested in the possibility of acquiring this property, but the consensus was that the City of University Heights should assist financially with the acquisition. They also felt that if the property would be used for purposes other than parkland (i.e., stormwater management), perhaps other funding sources should supplement any possible Parkland Funds or Park budget expenditures. Jensen Property: It has been.reported that this four acres, located in the Harlocke/Weeber area, is for sale. A large portion of it is wooded ravine, but a sizeable portion (maybe 25-40%) is flat open space which would be suitable for active neighborhood park purposes. Trueblood reported that the Neighborhood Open Space Plan shows a deficit of 6.95 acres. commission members indicated that the possibility of acquiring this land should be explored. MISCELLANEOUS REPORTS With respect to expansion of indoor recreation facilities, Trueblood reported that staff would be meeting with Kevin Monson on August 23, after which a follow-up meeting would be scheduled with the Foundation committee. An update report will be given at the next Commission meeting. COMMISSION TIME Pruess reported that portions of the trail through City Park are in need of repair, and asked if it was scheduled to be done this year or next. Trueblood noted that the repair was not a part of the current C.I.P. budget, but the worst sections will be repaired, perhaps using some of the funds budgeted for parking lot and sidewalk repairs. 3 CHAIRtS REPORT Vanderhoef noted that Mesquakie Park is still listed in the Parks and Recreation brochure, and asked if its status as parkland has been changed yet. Trueblood indicated that Mesquakie Park is still officially on the parkland inventory. It has not changed yet because it is a bit more complicated than originally thought, and has been placed on the "pending list" for now. He further indicated that staff could refrain from listing it in the brochure as a. park until the issue is resolved, since it is technically not open to the public. DIRECTORt$ REPORT Trueblood reported on the following: Whispering Meadows Wetland. The colored substance found floating in the whispering Meadows Wetland on several occasions has been tested by the state hygienic lab. They believe it to be the result of a decaying process, and nothing to be alarmed about. Sturgis Ferry Park. At the direction of the City Manager, an effort to clean up the area just north of Sturgis Ferry Park has been initiated. As a result, the free firewood will not be available (at least for now) as it is being relocated to the landfill. Also, the free wood chips will temporarily be unavailable, but will likely return to this location. Staff will also be developing a plan to enhance the park, making it a more attractive entrance to the City. As a part of this, one of the shelters will likely be relocated to Scott Park, thus helping the Friendship Neighborhood Association stretch their "P.I.N." dollars further in developing a playground area in Scott Park. Property adjacent to Wetherby Park. The City Council has given approval to proceed with plans to purchase 10 acres of property south and west of Wetherby Park, in order to expand the park. Paperwork needs to be completed to make it official. ADJOURNMENT Moved by Liddekl, seconded by meeting adjourned at 6:51 p.m. Pelton, to adjourn. Unanimous. The 4 MINUTES BROADBAND TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION MONDAY, AUGUST 28, 1995 LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM, CIVIC CENTER MEMBERSPRESENT: Eric Rothenbuhler, Cordell Jeppsen, Steve Hoch, Betty McKray MEMBERS ABSENT: Roger Christian STAFF PRESENT: Shaffer, Brau, Helling, Burnside OTHERS PRESENT: Beth Fisher, Mary Jo Langhorne, Lida Cochran, Howard Weinberg, Rene Paine, Doug Aliaire, Mark Weills LIST OF MA'I-i'ERS PENDING COMMISSION/COUNCIL DISPOSITION Cable 'IV Refranchising/Renewal SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION Aliaire distributed a copy of a memo sent to the PATV Board outlining proposed guideline changes regarding producer identification and the prime-time policy. The first policy change requires all providers and producers to take the guidelines workshop. Another policy change refers to the prime-time policy. A mailing describing what PATV has to offer was sent to over 200 nonprofit organizations. Langhome reported that the Iowa City School systum will have video editing equipment available at both high schools and will be offering video production classes. It is anticipated that 150 students will enroll. Shaffer announced Government Channel 4 will be providing cable subscribers access to the World Wide Web. It was agreed the next regular meeting will be moved up one week to Sept. 18. The joint BTC/City Council public hearing on the new cable TV franchise is tentatively scheduled for Oct. 10. The Oct. BTC meeting will be held Oct. 16. The BTC approved bylaws changes recommended by the Council regarding appointments to unexpired terms. CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 5:35 APPROVAL OF MINUTE~ It was moved by Hoch, seconded by Rothenbuhler, to approve the July 24, 1995 BTC minutes. The minutes were unanimously approved. ANNOUNCEMENTS OF COMMISSIONERS None SHORT PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS None LIBRARY REPORT Fisher reported that thirteen live programs were cablecast in August. Among these were a Science Center program on hormone therapy and the Johnson County Democratic Concems Committee program on Medicare in the 90's. LEGAL REPORT Burnside reported that work continues on the franchise and ordinance. PATV REPORT Aliaire noted a recent Press Citizen editorial which praised PATV for releasing producers names to those inquiring, but taking PATV to task for not requiring identification of producers on the programs. Unlike the Cedar Rapids Gazette, no Press Citizen reporter attended the PATV Board meeting or made inquiries about the policy changes which specifically require producers to be identified on the program. Aliaire, Paine and Steve Wurtzler will meet next week with the Press Citizen to provide them with accurate information. Aliaire distributed a copy of a memo sent to the PATV Board outlining proposed guideline changes regarding producer identification and the prime-time policy. Aliaire said PATV's contract with the City says PATV policy is to be made "in cooperation" with the BTC. While the meaning is not precisely clear, in the past the PATV Board has modified policy, reported it to the BTC and then worked out any differences. The first policy change requires all providers and producers to take the guidelines workshop. This will make users familiar with the rules and philosophy of PATV. Producers have always been required to take the guidelines workshop while providers have not. Shaffer asked if the proposed change would discourage people from utilizing PATV. Aliaire said that was considered but if people are to use PATV they ought to be aware of the rules. Hoch asked how PATV deals with possible violators of law given prescreening is not done. Aliaire said an "illegal" tape could indeed run. The producer is legally responsible for the program, not PATV. PATV may advise producer, but cannot legally prevent a program form being cablecast prior to its legal status being determined. Jeppsen asked if the form and contents of producer identifications had been developed. Rothenbuhler and Jeppsen suggested clear wording be developed for how producers are to be identified. Aliaire said the PATV Board will expand or further define producer identification requirements. Another policy change refers to the prime-time policy. Paine reported PATV held some workshops for the Johnson County Arts Center. A mailing describing what PATV has to offer was sent to over 200 nonprofit organizations. Staff-assisted series applications will be taken until Friday, Sept. 1. PATV staff attended TCI's cable fair and distributed information. There was alot of interest in PATV's World Wide Web site. Rothenbuhler said a shift in perspective from using equipment to utilizing the channel as a resource is a good idea and hopes that idea is emphasized in the workshops. Jeppsen said requiring providers to attend the guidelines workshop is a good idea. Shaffer asked that PATV keep the BTC informed of the response the nonprofit mailing gets and PATV agreed. Mark Weills said there had been a strong initial response. TCl REPORT Shaffer said Bill Blough called him and reported TCI was in the process of replacing a coax line with a fiber optic cable which would eliminate the hub site at Old Brick. The cutover will take place tonight, Aug. 28 and Aug. 29 at night resulting in some outages of a few hours. Hoch said public notification for planned outages should be included in the new franchise. Jeppsen said he was concerned this would lead to further delays. McKray asked if the outages are scheduled at night. Shaffer said they are scheduled between midnight and 5 a.m. Hoch said because TCI has monopoly power and outages don't affect their rates, they can do as they choose if it isn't forbidden in the franchise. Rothenbuhler asked if there was a precedent for including notification language. Shaffer said he didn't recall such language being in the draft franchise or ordinance. Rothenbuhler asked if there was a history of planned outages with no public notification. Shaffer sad he did not recall any problems in the past and TCl usually attempted to notify th public via press releases and spot radio announcments, however this could not be done according to the City's consultants. Rothenbuhler said he agreed with Hoch's analysis but given there hasn't been a history of problems in this area he does not support inclusion in the legal system or putting off the franchise agreement. Hoch said a long rebuild pedod will occur after the new franchise is complete and asked if outage time and notification language was considered by staff when developing the franchise and ordinance. Shaffer said discussions were held during negotiations regarding planned outages in which Blough expressed an intention to plan outages late at night to minimize disruption, but specific language was not included in franchise. The current franchise requires rebates for each 24 hour outage and the new franchise for 18 hours. The 18 hour threshold was ardved at only after a great deal of intransigence from TCl. Most unplanned outages are minutes in duration and Shaffer had desired the threshold be in the minutes. Shaffer said the upgraded plant should greatly reduce the incidence of outages. McKray said staff should express to TCI during negotiations that the BTC is very concerned with outages and inquire how many outages can be expected. If such language had been included in the draft franchise she would support it, but would not if it were to delay the completion of an agreement. Shaffer said City staff wants the Commission to review their work thoroughly, but it is important to pick battles with TCI carefully. ECC REPORT Langhorne reported that the Iowa City School system will have video editing equipment available at both high schools and will be offering video production classes. It is anticipated that 150 students will enroll. This should have a positive impact on programming. Northwest Junior High received a Carver Technology grant of which part will be used to purchase video equipment. Part of another grant will fund staffing. CABLE TV ADMINISTRATOR REPORT Shaffer reported receiving 17 complaints: 6 about outages, 6 about rate increases, 3 about billing problems, 1 about commercial rates, and 1 about a bad cable hook-up. Don Wood attended TCI's cable fair and provided information about InfoVision and Channel 4. InfoVision will be installing an interface with selected World Wide Web sites next Tuesday. Staff retreats are planned to evaluate past performance and plan for the future. The Community Networking Group (CNG) has continued to meet. The importance of the group has become greater in light of how franchise negotiations are working out. The CNG has formed two committees, one to research telecommunication carriers which might serve as conduits and one researching other cities who have undertaken similar projects. AMENDMENT OF THE BTC BYLAWS Jeppsen read the proposed changes to the bylaws regarding filling unexpired terms. Helling said the intent is to avoid appointing people to very short terms. McKray said she would prefer language that stipulated how much, perhaps half, of a term was expired before people could be reappointed and that many organizations she is involved with are shortening the length of terms as it is sometimes difficult to get commitment for long terms. Hoch moved to delete Section 2, Article 3 of the current BTC bylaws and replace the paragraph with the following language: "If a position/appointment becomes vacant by reason of resignation or otherwise and · results in an unexpired term the Council may choose to fill the unexpired term in such a manner that the appointee shall continue in the position not only through the unexpired term but also through subsequent regular term." Rothenbuhler seconded the motion, The motion passed unanimously. BTC/ACCESS CHANNELS RELATIONSHIP Shaffer refered to material in the BTC meeting packet. Hoch asked if PATV is currently unhappy with their relationship with the BTC. Aliaire said he was not, but it was unclear what the PATV contract means when referring to "cooperation" with the BTC in developing policy. In the past PATV has developed changes to the guidelines and provided the results to the BTC for comments. Jeppsen said it is not true that PATV can't make a move without BTC approval. Aliaire said in one instance PATV was in the midst of policy discussion when there were indicators the BTC wanted to be involved in developing the policy. Hoch asked what might happen if there was a disagreement between PATV and the BTC. Aliaire said there would be discussions. The relationship is not confrontational. The BTC oversees the job PATV performs as it does the government, education, and library channel. Jeppsen said the BTC has important input in the development of PATV's contract with the City. Burnside said the phrase "in cooperation" has no specific legal meaning. McKray said a while back there was a memo from the City Attorney which refered to changes in the PATV guidelines which had omitted some language and the BTC had not been notified. The memo indicated that this was improper. Aliaire said this was a mistake on PATV's behalf. There was an inconsistency in language regarding prescreening and some language was edited out. Aliaire said the change should have come to the BTC. Burnside said an understanding of the phrase "in cooperation" can be arrived at when reading it in the context of the entire paragraph. In this case it refers to PATV's guidelines be consistent with existing law. There is no implied veto power. REFRANCHISING Shaffer said there are few remaining issues. A teleconference will be held to work on those issues. Assuming negotiations continue to progress a joint BTC/City Council public hearing might be held Sept. 26. The BTC need not to have completed their work by that time. The public hearing is to gather input from the public. Hoch said Sept. 26 is a religious holiday for some community members and would prefer to hold the hearing another day. It was agreed the next regular meeting will be moved up one week to Sept. 18. The public hearing will be tentatively scheduled for Oct.10. The Oct. BTC meeting will be held Oct. 16. Mc Kray asked if other Commissioners were satisfied with the draft franchise. Jeppsen said some sections provide for things which will be big improvements and some issues never went where we hoped they might. The City has done a good job of pushing those issues as far as possible. McKray said the draft franchise is a pretty good package and starting over would be misguided. Rothenbuhler and Jeppsen said that while the package isn't as good as what had been hoped, it is better than where the negotiations were last winter. Jeppsen said the refranchising process began by hiring a consultant best suited to Iowa City's needs. Matters were trusted to City staff and the consultants due to their expertise, legal requirements, and restrictions on Commissioner's time. At this point there won't likely be many changes, but there is a need for Commissioners to come to an understanding of the franchise and the implications for the community. The document is somewhat set because there were sacrifices made to arrive at what is in the franchise as it stands. Shaffer said in some sense it is perceived as a package arrived at after a long process of negotiations involving give and take on both sides. If one party decides to pull out some items, the other party may want to do so as well. The draft franchise is not set in stone, however. Helling said that City staff is not completely happy with the draft franchise but there are things which are not included which the company cannot be required to provide and the company has said they won't provide. ADJOURNMENT It was moved by McKray, seconded 'by Hoch to adjourn. The motion passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 6:55 p.m. Repectfully submitted, Wm. Drew Shaffer Cable Televsion Administrator MINUTES JOINT WORK SESSION PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION RIVERFRONT & NATURAL AREAS COMMISSION THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 1995 - 7:30 P.M. SENIOR CENTER CLASSROOM PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT: Tom Scott, George Starr, Lea Supple, Jane Jakobsen, Ann Bovbjerg RIVERFRONT AND NATURAL AREAS COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT: Jim Pugh, Catherine Pugh, Larry Wilson, Sue Chase, Dick Hoppin, Jessica Neary STAFF PRESENT: Bob Miklo, Melody Rockwell, Scott Kugler, Chadie Denhey, John Yapp Staff presented an overview of the proposed Sensitive Areas Ordinance. Jakobsen said that prehistory and histop/should be defined, either in the archaeological sites section, or in the definitions section. J. Pugh asked why a woodland was defined as a wooded area of at least two acres with at least 200 trees per acre. Denney said staff used that definition, because it is the definition the State of Iowa used for the property tax relief program for woodlands. Denney said the Sensitive Areas Committee seemed comfortable with the definition. J. Pugh said that he thought the density of 200 trees per acre seemed high; that few woodlands would achieve that density. Denhey said the Committee felt that using the density to define a woodland, rather than only protecting trees of a certain size within a woodland, would help to protect all the trees of all different ages in the woodland. Rhodes noted a forest tree is defined as an approved tree two inches in diameter or greater. Neary asked whether the trees per acre density should be based on a State tax program, or on ecologically sound principals. Denney said he could check with the State to find out the rationale for the definition. Wilson thought it might take too many trees to be able to qualify as a woodland under this definition. J. Pugh agreed. Denney said staff would go out and locate some areas in Iowa City which have 200 trees per acre, and then provide show some local examples of woodland density to the Commissions. J. Pugh asked how a grove of trees would be protected. Denhey said a grove of trees would not have the same level of protection as a woodland, but would be taken into consideration during the development and design review process. Attempts would be made to protect as much of the grove as possible through the design of the development. J. Pugh said it is unclear as to who decides what can and cannot be done with someone's property if they have a grove of trees on their property. Scott said on site plans, Joint Staff Joint Work Session August 10, 1995 Page 2 would make decisions as to what is approved or not. Their decisions could be appealed to the Planning and Zoning Commission. For Sensitive Areas Oveday zones, the Planning and Zoning Commission and Council will make decisions based on City staff recommendations. Denney said the Committee was concerned with streamlining the implementation of the ordinance. Therefore, much of the ordinance is designed to be implemented administratively. The Committee recommended that criteria, such as the lisf of approved forest trees, be maintained as a separate reference, but not included in the ordinance itself. Scott said there was an underlying premise of the Committee that this ordinance should reference existing regulations, both to make it shorter and stronger. For example, it uses the same definition of a woodland as the State does. Wilson said the minimum of two acres for a woodland sounded faidy good to him. Wilson said trees are very important as a spatial element for a city. He felt this ordinance was very strong, well wdtten, and held together very well. J. Pugh agreed with Wilson, and also said the ordinance was very readable. He said the brochures were a very good introduction to the ordinance. Bovbjerg said she had concerns that the Department of Public Works would not favor the development of alleys or narrower streets. She said the paving of alleys may consume more land than is necessary, and that Public Works may not want to maintain alleys. She also asked what would happen to the leftover environmentally sensitive land that was not developed. Miklo answered that the environmentally sensitive land would be set aside as conservation easements, dedicated parks, or easements on individually owned lots, depending on the situation. Bovbjerg asked what would happen if a homeowner cut down the prairie in their backyard, which was in an easement. Miklo said that was an enforcement issue, and the Council would have to consider the staff needs associated with enforcing this ordinance. He noted public education about the importance of these natural areas is very important. Bovbjerg said nearby environmental sensitive features can be a great selling point for developments. She did not know how successful garages behind buildings would be, because people want to shovel their snow off the shortest ddveway possible. She said tandem garages and shared driveways would help to conserve land. Miklo said one reason for the design guidelines is to facilitate the transfer of density from the environmentally sensitive area. To accomplish this, you have to go to more compact development. To have quality, livable compact development, you have to have some design guidelines. Bovbjerg said that Iowa City has a distinct student population who may need much more parking space than the average family. Wilson said that student parking needs are based on habit rather than need. Jakobsen asked what the staff needs are connected with this ordinance. Miklo said that it is difficult to assess the staff need without having actually worked with the ordinance. He said staff may be needed not only for planning, but for public works and building inspection as well. Joint Work Session August 10, 1995 Page 3 Miklo said that one idea was to irrlplement the ordinance using consultants at first, in order to assess the staff need, and then hidng the proper amount of staff. Otto said he wholeheartedly supports this ordinance, but to play devil's advocate, it may cost another $100,000 to implement this ordinance. Miklo said them will be some added expense associated with this ordinance, and it is difficult to give a quantified number at this point. He said $100,000 would basically be two full-time staff people. There will be some extra review time for planning, public works, and the Planning and Zoning Commis. sion and City Council. There will be additional inspection and monitoring time, and some ongoing public education associated with this ordinance as well. Wilson said there are many unquantifiable benefits with protecting these environmental areas. Denney said this ordinance will help implement the environmental policies of the Comprehensive Plan. Miklo noted that staff has spent the last three to four years working with the Sycamore Farms project. If this ordinance were in place, that project could have been resolved much eadier, because the regulations and rules would have been clear upfront. Chase said'that implementing this ordinance with one more staff person would cost a lot less than all the time and money spent on ~he Sycamore Farms project, which has taken years. Bovbjerg said that it is far cheaper to prevent an environmental mess in the first place than it is to clean it up after it happens. She also said that not protecting environmental areas is expensive for members of the community in non-quantifiable ways, as they will not be able to enjoy certain aspects of the environment. Rhodes said them are many hidden costs in cleaning up the environment, such as public works having to clean out poorly made storm sewer systems. Scott said it takes far more time to dght a wrong after it happens than it does to prevent the wrong in the first place. Scott said he believes there are enough staff right now to implement this ordinance. He said there will be some additional workload, but there should be enough people to spread around to cover the work. He said there are times in the year when certain departments may have to work overtime, like HIS when there is a lot of student turnover. He said some of the pre- development work should be done by the developer or by someone hired by the developer, rather than having an environmental planner on the staff. Bcvbjerg said we have to be flexible. We have to look at other kinds of density for Iowa City, We have to be open-minded about how to fit people in the city. People will continue to move here, and we need to fit them in while preserving the qualities that this city has. Scott asked on page 14 under C, could the ordinance spell out what measurements of the water chemistry should be taken, such as the pH, nitrates, suspended solids, etc.? Rhodes said that n]ay be better left as an accessory reference sheet. Scott agreed, but said it should state somewhere what exactly is needed in measuring the water chemistry. Kugler said that made perfect sense to him; that staff could develop some sort of water chemistry checklist. Joint Work Session August 10, 1995 Page 4 Rhodes said he had a problem with that, because there are many kinds of wetlands which are affected by many different sorts of pollutants. He said the document should be kept more flexible. Scott thought the types of tests which should be done for water quality should be listed somewhere. Bovbjerg said that different types of wetlands lend themselves to different types of tests. Supple said she had a few comments to make. First of all, the ordinance is very well wdtten and holds together very well, and the people who worked on it should be commended. Supple said one criticism is that in some places it refers to wildbYe uses and in some places it refers to wildlife presence, and the wording should perhaps be consistent. Supple noted it says known habitat for migratory birds of regional importance in some places and in other places it says...of regional significance. Those two phrases should perhaps be consistent. Supple asked whether non-migratory birds were of regional importance. Kugler said the definition was based on federal standards for wetlands, and the EPA has determined in some court cases that migratory birds were of importance. Rhodes said most birds in Iowa are migratory, because of the winter. Supple said she did not like # 5 under the purpose section, to foster compact development. She said instead of the word 'compact,' perhaps it should say 'creative.' J. Pugh said he did not know why we are getting into the design of houses and alleys and garages. Wilson noted the intent of having compact design guidelines was to conserve infrastructure and preserve the environmental areas. Supple said the word 'compact' has very negative connotations. W~lson said #5 might say land conservative urban development. J. Pugh said we could just drop the word compact. Miklo suggested #5 say To fester development so as to preserve open space... The Commissions agreed. Supple said why in the applicability section, section 2 reads very well. However, section 1 is not very readable. Section 1 should be written in a form consistent with section 2, with a heading and consistent letters and numbers for the outline. Supple asked why on page 2, section 2b, a recording requirement for a Sensitive Areas Development Plan was not mentioned. Rockwell said the recording is not mentioned for rezonings and subdivisions, because recording already occurs as part of those processes. However, site plans are not automatically recorded documents. That is why site plans are specifically cited in this section. Supple asked, under page 6, section D2 in the exemptions section on ownership or sale of property or change in ownership of a business, what does "of a business" mean? Supple asked if this was talking about the change in ownership of a business as opposed to a change in the ownership of property? Rockwell noted that sometimes people own a business on a property, but do not own the property. Scott said it should be changed to say" . .the change ~n ownership of a property or a business." Bovbjerg said there are many places where the sentences could be made much more concise. Some of the sentences may not be clear legally speaking, and should be more direct and concise. She said she has noted the sentences she is talking about, and will show the staff Joint Work Session August 10, 1995 Page 5 where they are and make suggestions to change them. Scott said some wording perhaps should be changed, but we should not go overboard. Jakobsen said she liked the brochures. They help give a good introduction to the ordinance. J. Pugh agreed. Wilson said he had a few questions on the streambanks section. He said the problem with using the floodway or the centerline of the .stream to define the corddor is that they do not account for where the top of the bank is. Denney said the Committee felt that in many cases the top of the bank is difficult to determine, while the floodway is easier to define. Wilson said we should perhaps use the top of the bank for the definition of the stream corddor where the top of bank can be determined, and use the floodway everywhere else. Scott said that it would be difficult to use a visual definition of the top of bank, because different people would have a different perception of where the top of the bank is located. Wilson said perhaps we should have a statement that where a tree line occurs along the top of bank, the City can extend the buffer to cover those trees. Rhodes said one way to address this would be to increase the buffers for stream corridors. Rhodes said although he fully supports this ordinance as a whole, he felt the buffers are inadequate as they stand. Supple said that if there are trees along a stream, they might be protected as a woodland or as a grove..Wilson said it depended largely on how your property was configured. Wilson said he did not support a grid street pattern in environmentally sensitive areas. The lay of the land should dictate the street pattern. The street system should respond to the land, otherwise it will contradict the purpose of this ordinance. Miklo noted that this is a modified gdd, and that these are guidelines, not requirements. Miklo agreed that it is unlikely that we will create large gdd areas, such as the Northside. Rhodes noted that the ordinance does say the street pattern should be adapted to the topography of the land. Wilson said he did not believe a grid pattern should be promoted. Wilson said that although he disagrees with a few elements of the ordinance, overall, the people who took part in writing it did a very good job. Scott agreed that the Sensitive Areas Committee should be commended. Meeting adjourned at 9:30 P.M. Minutes submitted by John Yapp MINUTES IOWA CITY AIRPORT COMMISSION THURSDAY AUGUST 10, 1995 - 5:45 IOWA CITY TRANSIT FACILITY MEMBERS PRESENTs STi%FF PRESENTs Pat Foster, Howard Horan, Rick Mascari, Robert Hicks Anne Burnside, Beverly'Ogren, Ron O'Neil CALL TO ORDERs Chairperson Horan called the meeting to order at 5:48 p.m. quorum of the Commission was present° A APPROVAL OF MINUTES= The minutes of the July 13, 1995, meeting were approved as submitted. AUTHORIZATION OF EXPENDITURES: Foster made a motion to approve the bills. Mascari seconded the motion and it was approved 3 - 0. Jones, from ICFS, requested the Commission not charge him for the July rent on hangar #32. The opener has been broken and he has not been able to use it. O'Neil said the parts have been on order for about three weeks. Mascari made a motion to waive the rent charge for one month's rent. Foster seconded the motion and it passed 3 - 0. PUBLIC DISCUSSION - ITEMS NOT ON AGENDA: Questions were asked about some maintenance issues at the Airport. One issue concerned landscaping on the west side of the Terminal Building and interior rehabilitation. It was explained that many of the issues raised have been addressed at past Commission meetings. Mascari volunteered to get estimates to rehab the interior of the Terminal Building. This will be incorporated in the budgeting process that starts in October. Jones said he will do something with his sign and with the telephone lines attached to the exterior of the building. PUBLIC HEARING ~ IOWA NATIONAL GUARD Horan opened the public hearing at 6:18 p.m. O'Neil explained where the area was that the Guard would like to lease. The lease would be for a three year term, with an option to renew for another three years. The price per square foot would be the same as with the current lease. There was discussion concerning hard surfaced parking. Burnside will research the Code and report to the Commission at the next meeting. The general terms of the lease were agreeable to the Commission. This will be an agenda item at the September meeting. Horan closed the public hearing at 6:28 p.m. PUBLIC HEARIN~ - UNITED 8TATES ARMY RESERVE: Horan opened the public hearing at 6:28 p.mo O'Neil said the USAR wanted to change some things in the lease, but they had not sent a copy of the proposed changes. Burnside recbmmended continuing the hearing until the next meeting. Mascari made a motion to continue the hearing until more information is available. Hicks seconded the motion and it passed 4-0. The hearing was closed at 6:34 p.m. ITEMS FOR DISCUSEION/~CTION~ a. Master Plan Study - Jerry Searle, from McClure Engineering, presented information on the Master Plan Study. Searle said that even though the Board of Supervisors would not wait until after the Master Plan was completed to discuss the Wolf rezoning, his schedule would not change. Location of a mobile home park just south of the Airport would reduce the options available to the Airport. He discussed a possible lay out of the Airport that would allow for a 5500' runway and a cross wind runway of about 4000'. This would require moving a substantial amount of dirt west of Runway 6. Jones suggested extending the other end of that runway to the east and closing or rerouting Riverside Drive. Searle said all options will be looked at but he did not think this would be a politically viable alternative. Searle discussed options available for the other two runways. If the FAAwill only fund two runways, the third runway may have to be funded through state grants, local funding or reduced to a taxiway. Searle said the Commission will have to decide what the physical and political realities are for developing the Airport. There may be a more concentrated effort to develop the Airport for business and industry. Depending on how the runways are developed, there may be land available for an industrial park. O'Neil suggested that during the Master Plan Study, the Commission should choose one of the Commission members to be a spokesperson for the Commission. This will assure the press or anyone else interested in the study is able to get correct and consistent information. Horan suggested O'Neil be the spokesperson and the Commission will direct any questions to O'Neil. The other Commission members agreed to handle communications this way. b. Airport Terminal Building Rehab - O'Neil said this item should be deferred. There was some discussion on what should be done on the west side of the building. o.. Airport Terminal Building and Unite~ Hangar Roof Projeots - O'Neil said this project has been satisfactorily completed. Foster made a motion for a resolution to accept the roof project to reroof the United Hangar building and the Airport Terminal building. Mascari seconded the motion and at roll call vote, the motion passed 4'- 0, with Blum being absent. 4. Corporate hangar building a O'Neil said he and Mascari are working on the possibility of building additional hangar space. There are some corporate aircraft owners interested in locating in Iowa City. e. Fly-in breakfast - O'Neil said the trophies have been ordered for the paper airplane. It will cost about $ 250.00 in expenses to bring the aircraft simulator from Des Moines. Bey Ogren has volunteered to help with the paper airplane contest. Mascari said the Commission should take a more active role in promoting the breakfast. O'Neil said Sertoma normally handles the advertising. CHAIRPERSON'S REPORT: Horan said he and several other people spoke in opposition to the Wolf rezoning request to locate a mobile home park at the end of Runway 35. The Board of Supervisors voted 4 - 1 to rezone the property. COMMISSION MEMBERS' REPORTS: No items were presented. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT: O'Neil said there was some interest from a realtor in leasing or buying some Airport property that fronts on Ruppert Road. Development of the property will be discussed as part of the Master Plan Study. O'Neil said that many people, including ICFS employees, ignore the no smoking ordinance in the Terminal Building. There was a discussion among the Commission on the best way to enforce the ordinance. O'Neil reminded the Commission of the FAA Central Conference October 3 through October 5. Mascari, Horan, expressed interest in attending at least one day. Region AIP and Foster SET NEXT MEETTNG~ The next regular meeting was 5:45 p.m. ADJOURNMENT: Foster moved to adjourn the meeting. and the meeting adjourned at 7:53 p.m. HoWard Horan, Chairperson scheduled for September 14, 1995, at Mascari seconded the motion MINUTES IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES REGULAR MEETING 2ND FLOOR ADMINISTRATIVE CONFERENCE ROOM THURSDAY, AUGUST 24, 1995 5:00 PM Members Present: Margaret Cox, Stephen Greenleaf, Philip Hubbard, Mary McMurray, Jesse Singerman, Chuck Traw Members Absent: Staff Present: Mark Martin, Anne Spencer, Jim Swain Barb Black, Maeve Clark, Susan Craig, Eckholt, Martha Lubaroff, Liz Nichols Larry CALL TO ORDER: President Traw called the meeting to order at 5:00 pm APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Minutes of the regular meeting of July 27, 1995 unanimously after a motion by Greenleaf/Singerman were approved NEW BUSINESS A. Review Annual Report Craig introduced discussion of the report. She commented on the pictures this year which are a new feature. An annual report is a historical document and pictures are a visual record of the past year. Craig pointed out that statistically she had some concerns about the small drop in the percentage of rural Johnson County usage. The other main focus of the report described our efforts in preparation for major technological changes including the preparation and training of staff and the groundwork necessary prior to introducing new features to the public. Hubbard noted that he was impressed by the format and the achievements of staff. Traw noted that the staff should be complimented for their work in preparing this report. Discuss possible contract with University Heights for library service. In response to the Board's request to Craig several months ago concerning exploration of a contract with University Heights, Craig prepared a proposal. She expressed the opinion that it would be most appropriate to pursue a joint contract with Coralville Public Library. Craig spoke to Heidi Lauritzen, Director of Coralville Public Library, who will broach the subject with her Board of Trustees. She suggested to the Board that if they seriously wanted ICPL BOARD OF TRUSTEES AUGUST 24, 1995 PAGE 2 to approach University Heights with this proposal, it should be done by October so it can be included in University Heights' budget discussions. The funding level proposed is based on the per capita tax support for Coralville and Iowa City public libraries; the lower of these two rates would be used to charge University Heights on a per capita basis, based on the population of University Heights. Currently we offer fee cards for $110 which must be paid up front by residents. This appears to limit use by University Heights residents. The Board was in agreement that it was a contract worth pursuing. Once Coralville Public Library's Board has a chance to review the proposal, Craig will followup and report back to the board. C. Discuss format of budget presentation meeting(s) in September. The format has either been to have one longmeeting or two shorter meetings. Each department head makes a presentation about their budget .needs. Craig makes an overall presentation regarding capital improvements, materials, etc. In October a special meeting to review the proposal is held and at the Board's regular meeting, the budget is approved as a final document that goes to the City. It is then reviewed by the City Manager and most likely modified to his reconm~endations before it is presented to City Council for discussion in January. It is Craig's opinion that the City will be dealing with implications of federal budget cuts and it may affect how the library's budget is considered. The Board agreed that it was useful to hear from'Department Heads. However, they also agreed that one meeting should be sufficient to hear from managers briefly about issues that might not be covered in the budget documents or to highlight the material they have included in the Board's packet. At the regular meeting on September 28, budget information will be presented. The meeting may run long and refreshment will be provided. STAFF REPORTS A. Request to support ICPL Hospice Team (Maeve Clark). In the past, the Board has allocated $500 from Gifts & Bequests. These expenses cover the costs incurred in the organization of Team Iowa City Public Library. Greenleaf moved the Board allocate $500 for expenses to organize and promote the library team. Hubbard seconded it. The motion was passed unanimously B. Iowa Library Association Registration. This year's meeting is in Des Moines. There are workshops scheduled for Trustees. Craig asked if there was Board interest. ICPL BOARD OF TRUSTEES AUGUST 24, 1995 PAGE 3 There was none at the time. Craig know. Interested board members should let C. Intellectual Freedom Festival This festival has been planned to accomplish a goal of our Strategic Plan as well as to honor Carol Spaziani, former Coordinator of Community and Audio Visual Services. The festival will coincide with Banned Books week. The library will have displays of banned books all month. The Assistant Director of the American Library Association's Office of Intellectual Freedom will give a public lecture at 3:00 pm on Sunday, September 24 followed by a public reception to which Foundation members are also invited. The committee is attempting to move the banquet to a more convenient time. [Staff Note: The banquet has become a brunch. It will be held from 12-2 on Sunday, September 24.] There will also be an Intellectual Freedom event during the week. In addition, Debb Green, Childrens Services Coordinator, is planning a storytime of banned books for a Staff meeting. We will be running a series of films on the library channel which have been challenged in some way. D. Development Office report A copy of the annual report was passed around. The annual report is at the printers and will be mailed next week. A large booksale is planned for Friday night to coincide with the last Friday night band concert on the Pedestrian Mall, and the traditional Saturday booksale. Welcome WINDOW is in progress. It should be completed next week and go to the Post Office by the 15th of September. Eckholt was asked for an update on the focus groups which were scheduled to be part of the feasibility study. This study is to be conducted by the consultant recently hired to make recommendations about the fundraising aspect of the expansion plan. Eckholt is working on scheduling a time for the Board to hear a presentation from the consultant. Once that is done, a timeline will be prepared. E. Introduction to the Internet classes for Board Staff trainers have written curriculum for several staff classes. They include Introduction to Internet, E-mail, ListServs, Gophers, and World Wide Web. Craig offered to present the courses to the Board once the staff has been trained. Board is enthusiastic. Board member Jim Swaim has been discharged from the hospital. He plans to be at the September 7 meeting. ICPL BOARD OF TRUSTEES AUGUST 24, 1995 PAGE 4 PRESIDENT'S REPORT Traw discussed plans for the special meeting September 7, 1995. It is to be held in Meeting Room A. Traw, Craig and Greenleaf will each review and update a segment of the history and status of the project. Karin Franklin, Director of the Planning & Community Development of the city of Iowa City will also make a presentation on the value of the library being downtown. The Board will receive information regarding each segment of the presentation for their review. After a lengthy discussion regarding the structure of the meeting on September 7, it was agreed by the Board that the sole purpose is to review the entire building planning process for the benefit of new Board members as well as residing Board members. Once the Board has the opportunity to reassess the many phases of the process, there will be an occasion to hear from the public who may be present. A further meeting on 7A~esday, September 19 has been scheduled, at which time the Board will approve a plan of action and begin to move forward. Traw informed the Board that an article appeared in the Grant Wood Neighborhood Association newsletter in which councilperson Larry Baker wished to discuss the issue of branch libraries, rather than an expansion, with neighborhood members. Mr. Baker had previously spoken to Craig about the possibility of branch libraries. If such a meeting is held Craig will attend with a member of the Facilities Planning Committee if possible. FINANCIAL REPORTS A. FY95 Receipts compared to FY94 B. FY95 Receipts compared to Budget C. FY95 Expenditures D. Gifts & Bequests Receipts & Expenditures by Fund There was very little discussion about the reports. The end of the year showed good financial accountability in keeping with the budgeted figures. DISBURSEMENTS Review Visa expenditures for July 1995 Approve Disbursements for July 1955 The disbursements were approved unanimously after a motion by Greenleaf/Singerman SET AGENDA ORDER FOR SEPTEMBER MEETING As described above ADJOURNMENT: ICPL BOARD OF TRUSTEES AUGUST 24, 1995 PAGE 5 The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 pm after a unanimous vote on a motion made by Singerman/Greenleaf. Minutes taken and prepared by Martha Lubaroff. MINUTES IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES SPECIAL MEETING MEETING ROOM A THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 1995 - 5:00 PM Members Present: Margaret Cox, Stephen Hubbard, Mary McMurray, Singerman, Anne Spencer, Greenleaf, Philip Mark Martin, Jesse Jim Swaim, Chuck Traw Members Absent: Jim Swaim Staff Present: Barb Black, Maeve Clark, Susan Craig, Larry Eckholt, Debb Green, Martha Lubaroff Others Present: CALL TO ORDER: Lolly Eggers, Dee Vanderhoef, Thomas Hulman, Ellen Buchanan, A.K. Traw, Dee Norton, John Buchanan, David Lubaroff, Karin Franklin, Director of Planning & Community Development. President Traw called the meeting to order at 5:05 pm. Traw welcomed the guests. He stated the purpose of the meeting is to inform and update new board members regarding the status of the library expansion project. He described the format for the meeting which will consist of presentations by himself, Craig and Greenleaf who would each offer information about a segment of the process up to the present time. Franklin would offer a perspective of the project and its relationship to the entire downtown. On September 19, the Board will meet and discuss options, hopefully deciding on one, and develop a timeline. Traw 9ave a history of the work of the Facility Planning Committee which was first formed im 1992 to review needs, consider options and make recommendations regarding library space over the next ten to fifteen years. This committee was comprised of four board members and four staff members. A former committee had met in 1990 and prepared considerable background information. Surveys and studies done between then and 1992 showed that space needs were rapidly growing and the need to expand was increasing quickly. After accepting and reviewing Requests for Proposals from several consultants, David Smith was selected as the building consultant and began working with the committee. A large amount of information was reviewed by the committee, consisting of demographic studies, projected growth patterns, population of users, growt,, of Iowa City, short and long term impacts; operating and capital budget of the city and its impact on our expansion. From this background a recommended amount of additional space was determined. Options considered were building a branch, expansion to the south in the event an additional facility was built, expansion to the west and expanding the current building on site. In July of 93, the consultant's Space Needs Assessment Report was adopted. The report discussed a variety of options, but recommended expanding vertically in the present building. The next phase was to select an architect and prepare a detailed library ICPL BOARD OF TRUSTEES SEPTEMBER 7, 1995 PAGE 2 building program. Five architects were interviewed. The firm of Meyer, Scherer & Rockcastle of Minneapolis was selected. Craig reported that after the selection of the architect, the task of the staff and library board was to draft a library building program. This document provides basic functional design criteria. The library building program reflects the minimum space requirements for an expanded library facility needed by the City of Iowa City to meet projected needs. The building program, which was adopted in September of 1994 details each area in the building and describes the space requirements including lightin9, shelving, seating and equipment. The architects used the program and met with the staff to prepare schematic designs. Greenleaf spoke next, first clarifying the issue of hiring a construction manager. CPMI acts as an intermediary among the owner, staff, architects and various sub contractors. They serve as cost estimator, project manager and general contractor. They are especially recommended in complicated remodeling situations. The University used CPMI when the Union was remodeled. In December of 94 .the construction manager prepared cost estimates of the architect's preliminaryplans. Letters from construction engineers regarding the extensive demolition of plumbing, electrical concerns and the major problem of reinforcement of foundation and pillars, etc caused the price of expansion to be considerably more than originally anticipated. With the cost estimates of $11.5 million the Board considered the expansion alternatives in January, confirming the decision to expand the current building. AS an alternative to vertical expansion, the owners of the property to the West were contacted and an appraisal of the ~roperty was conducted. This plan would involve demolishing the building and put up a new structure with commercial space on the ground floor and the library on the floor above. This would allow the building to continue to generate tax dollars, keep commercial downtown space and meet our needs at the same time. However, at this time the building is not on the market. Franklin addressed the issue of downtown plan~ing as it relates to the Library. Iowa City Public Library is very important to Iowa City and is an asset to the downtown. The library provides a multipurpose reason for people to come downtown. It adds to the vitality, provides meetin9 space and brings people to downtown businesses. Franklin reviewed the other options mentioned in terms of their relationship to downtown development. The option of expanding west is an attractive one. In her opinion it would be a very efficient use of that site. Traw asked for questions from Board. Singerman asked about costs for renovation or remodeling this building if we did no expansion. Significant remodeling projects, ICPL BOARD OF TRUSTEES SEPTEMBER 7, 1995 PAGE 3 like carpeting, new roof, and major rewiring to accom~odate the increase in networking and computers, would have to be done. These projects have not been costed out, but the price tag is probably approximately one million dollars in capitol improvements that would need to be made if we remained here. Singerman asked for clarification on the cost of acquiring the building west of us and the additional cost of building on the site. Public com~,enzs or questions: A suggestion was made about expansion to the north. It was felt that the same and more problems would be encountered due to the alley. Some comments were made regarding using only a portion of the building site to the west and leaving some different configuration for commercial space. Franklin agreed that was possible, but recommended that commercial use definitely be built into the plan as well as keeping options open for the library to expand in future. Trustees were reminded of the special meeting on September 19. A motion was made and seconded to adjourn the meeting at 6:30. Martin/Singerman. It was passed-unanimously. Minutes taken and prepared by Martha Lubaroff /~.)~ ~MINUTES IOWA CITY PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 1995 - 7:30 PM CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS MEMBERS PRESENT: Ann Bovbjer9, Sally Dierks, Dick Gibson, Jane Jakobaen, Tom Scott, Lee Supple MEMBERS ABSENT: George Starr STAFF PRESENT: Holecek, Kugler, Miklo, Rockwell, Haring RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: Recommend denial, by a vote of 4-2, with Scott and Supple voting no, of REZ95-0012, a reconsideration of an application submitted by CB Development, Ltd. to rezone an approximate 2.02 tract of land located east of Lakeside Drive and south of Highway 6 from ID-RS, Interim Development Single-Family ResidenUal, to RM-12, Low Density Multi- Family Residential, subject to a conditional zoning agreement that would ensure develop- ment of the parcel in conformance with a site concept plan approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission and the City. Said site plan is to include: 1) approval by the City of a landscape plan as part of site plan approval of the site; 2) limiting vehicular access to the site to one location located at least 200 feet south of the intersection of Lakeside Ddve and the Highway 6 frontage road; and 3) City approval of the parking area and carport layout. Recommend approval, by a vote of 6-0, of SUB95-0019, a request submitted by Lyle Donohoe for preliminary and final plat approval of Donohoe Fourth Subdivision, an 11.35 acre, two-lot commercial subdivision located in Fdnge Area 1.on the south side of High- way 1 at its intersection with Landon Road, subject to the approval of legal papers by the City Attorney's Office prior to Council consideration of the final plat. Recommend approval, by a vote of 6-0, of SUB95-0025, a request submitted by Arlington, L.C. for preliminary and final plat approval of Windsor Ridge - Part Six, a resubdivision of Tract"A," Windsor Ridge - Part One, and Outlot "A," Windsor Ridge - Part Three, a 7.8 acre, seven-lot residential subdivision with two outlots located north of American Legion Road and west of Arlington Drive, subject to approval of the legal papers by the City Attorney's Office prior to Council consideration of the final plat. Recommend approval, by a vote of 6-0, of SUB95-0026, a request submitted by South- gate Development, Inc. for final plat approval of Kennedy's Waterfront Addition, Part Three, a 31.23 acre, '~ 1-lot commercial subdivision located south of Highway 1 between Gilbert Street and the Iowa River, subject to the following occurring prior to Council consideration of the final plat: 1) the approval of the construction drawings by Public Works, and 2) the approval by the City Attorney's Office of legal papers which address the conditions placed on the approval of the preliminary plat, i.e. conditions that deal with provision of sanitary sewer to the site and the dedication of right-of-way for the future expansion of Southgate Avenue. Recommend approval, by a vote of 6-0, of SUB95-0027, a request submitted by East Hill Subdivision, Inc. for final plat approval of East Hill Subdivision, a 13.04 acre, 36-1ot residential subdivision located north of Muscatine Avenue, west of Dover Street and Perry Court (formerly referred to as 655 Meadow Street), subject to: 1) the approval of legal papers by the City Attorney's Office prior to Council consideration of the final plat, and PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 7, 1995 PAGE 2 2) the approval of the construction drawings by Public Works prior to Council consider- ation of the final plat. CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Scott called the meeting to order at 7:46 p.m. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: There was none. REZONING ITEM: REZ95-0012. Public discussion of a reconsideration of an application submitted by CB Development, Ltd. to fezone an approximate 2.02 tract of land located east of Lakeside Drive and south of Highway 6 from ID-RS, Interim Development Single-Family Residential, to RM.12, Low Density Multi-Family Residential. Miklo said this is a proposal for a rezoning from ID-RS, Interim Development Single-Family Residential, to RM-12, Low Density Multi-Family Residential. As mentioned in earlier staff reports, staff does view the rezoning as an appropriate area for multi-family zoning. Staff does, however,. have concams relating to the unusual shape of the property, the extensive sanitary sewer easement on a good portion of the eastern side of the property, and the location of the property on an entryway to Iowa City. The Comprehensive Plan calls for special site design of properties located on an entryway. Further, the property is located adjacent to Highway 6 and an industrial area. The Comprehensive Plan states that extra care should be exercised to create buffers between industrial development and residential development. Miklo said an initial site plan submitted by the applicant raised concerns about the access situation and the internal traffic circulation system. At an earlier meeting, the Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed this proposal and recommended denial. At the most recent Commission meeting, the Commission agreed to reconsider the rezoning. Miklo said staff recommends approval, subject to a conditional zoning agreement contain- ing the following conditions: 1) development of the site in conformance with a concept plan approved by the City; 2) approval by the City of a landscape plan as part of site plan approval of the site; 3) limiting vehicular access to the site to one location located at least 200 feet south of the intersection of Lakeside Ddve and the Highway 6 frontage road; and 4) City approval of the parking area and carport layout. Miklo said the intent of condition one of the conditional zoning agreement is to ensure that the internal circulation system and layout is appropriate given the odd configuration of the lot and easement. The intent of the second condition is to ensure that an adequate landscape buffer is provided between the highway, the industrial area to the north and the subject property. The intent of the third condition is to avoid traffic conflicts at the existing intersection. The intent of condition four is to make the parking area and carport layout subject to review, because the plan submitted by the applicant indicates that the internal traffic circulation may not work and may not comply with the City parking layout standards. Miklo said the Commission had stated at an earlier meeting, the desire to review the site plan for this area. Miklo said, typically, the Commission does not review a site plan, PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 7, 1995 PAGE 3 unless an appeal is submitted by an adequate number of residents within the immediate area, a site plan is brought before the Commission by staff, or an applicant is appealing a staff decision. Bovbjerg wished to know to whom "the City' refers. Miklo said, as worded, this means staff, but it may be made specific to the Planning and Zoning Commission, or both, as well. Miklo said all four conditions are appropriate for re~/iew by the Commission, though a landscape plan is normally approved by the City Forester. Miklo said, in review of a site plan, staff usually refers to Housing and Inspection Services staff, Planning staff, Engi- neering staff, and the Fire Marshal. Dierks noted her concern about long term site inspection and compliance. Miklo said these will be inspected the same as any other rental properties. He said inspections to .ensure compliance have been stepped up recently. Dierks wished to know whether the ~nspectors possess copies of the site plan, as she feels many Commission-approved site plans are not being carried out, at least not within a reasonable amount of time. Miklo said the inspectors do not receive copies of site plans. Gibson said the September 1, 1995, memorandum from Charles Denhey, says that the appticant may have a revised concept plan available prior to the September 7 Commission meeting. Gibson asked whether a revised concept plan had been submitted. Miklo said a plan had not been received. He said the applicant should be asked to address this matter. Public discussion: Mary Lewis, 56 Re.qal Lane, representative of the Grant Wood Neighborhood Association, said the Association supports the lowest density possible on the subject site, due to the number of higher density zones, apartments and duplexes in this portion of the city. Lewis also asked the Commission to consider that the site is located near the Whispering Meadows Wetlands site. She also voiced neighborhood safety concerns. MOTION: BovbJerg moved to approve REZ95-0012, a reconslderatlon of an appllcao tlon submltted by CB Development, Ltd. to rezone an approximate 2.02 tract of land located east of Lakeside Drive and south of Highway 6 from ID-RS, Interim Develop- ment Single-Family Residential, to RM-12, Low Density Multi-Family Residential, subject to a conditional zoning agreement that would ensure development of the parcel In conformance with a site concept plan approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission and the City. Said site plan is to include: 1) approval by the City of a landscape plan as part of site plan approval of the site; 2) limiting vehicu- lar access to the site to one location located at least 200 feet south of the Intersec- tion of Lakeside Drive and the Highway 6 frontage road; and 3) City approval of the parking area and carport layout. Supple seconded. Scott said "City" refers to the Housing Inspection staff, Planning staff, Engineering staff, and the Fire Marshal, as had been stated by Miklo earlier. Scott reminded the Commis- sion that the conditional zoning agreement would also require approval by the City Council. PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 7, 1995 PAGE 4 Gibson said he is going to vote no to this proposal as the applicant has been granted more than sufficient time to resolve some of the issues that have been asked of by the Commission and staff, and yet, has shown no progress in this regard. Gibson emphatical- ly stated that he is very troubled by the process that allows approval of a proposal, subject to resolution of any number of conditions that appear to be unacceptable to the applicant. Gibson said more of these matters need to be dealt with up front and with a display of some assurance that the matters will be dealt with in' a reasonable amount of time. Gibson urged a no vote. Scott asked legal staff, if an unwillingness has been shown by the applicant to comply with the conditions of a CZA, regardless of the conditions, and even while still before the Planning and Zoning Commission, whether this is grounds for denial of the proposal. Holecek said, yes, however this recommendation could still go before Council, but without the existence of the conditions. Gibson said this still doss not resolve his point. Gibson said he does not agree with the notion that the applicant must agree to the conditions later, when there should be an up- front agreement. In the absence of this agreement, the Commission should simply deny the proposal. Gibson felt the absence of an up-front agreement is just a way to by-pass the system and pass the buck onto someone else. Gibson said the present proposal has been before the Commission now on four or five occasions, without any of progress by the developer or a display of any intent to comply with the conditions, which have been clear from the onset. Gibson said it is a waste of everyones' time to reconsider a matter when conditions set forth in a previous proposal have not been addressed, Scott said a problem may reside in the applicant's disagreement with the underlying premise of a conditional zoning agreement, and not necessarily the conditions set forth in that CZA. Holecek clarified that she would not say that the absence of a CZA, at this stage, in and of itself, is basis for denial. Holecek added that the apparent unwillingness on the part of the applicant to enter into or meet the conditions of a CZA, however, would bring consideration of the proposal back to square one, a non-conditioned rezoning. This may be the basis for denial by the Commission. A CZA is attached to the title for the land and if the conditions are not met, the necessary permits are not granted and development may not proceed. Gibson asked then whether denial of the motion on the floor will have resolved legal issues, as far the Planning and Zoning Commission is concerned. Holecek said yes. Miklo said the position Planning staff would take, is that should the Commission feel the land use is appropriate, the details of the site plan can be worked out. If the Commission is not satisfied with substantive issues within a site plan, the Commission may deny a proposal for not addressing these concerns. Gibson did not agree with this position as it would be giving away the leverage to negotiate. Scott disagreed with Gibson, stating that the design process is not the concern of the Commission. He said the Commission should be concerning itself with the issue of land use. Scott said the process should not be the most important reason for making a decision. Gibson said his position will not change until the applicant shows progress on the concerns raised. Without progress, the position to negotiate is lost. Dierks said she would have to agree with Gibson for the reasons stated. PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 7, 1995 PAGE 5 Scott asked the Commission to understand that if an unconditioned rezoning is approved with a site concept plan, the site plan carries absolutely no validity and the developer cannot be held responsible to it. On the other hand, a developer can be held responsible to abide by the conditions placed on a conditional rezoning agreement. Scott said denial of the application on the basis of process does not stand up to previous decisions made by the Commission, nor reason. Gibson repeated the position stated by Holecek on acceptable grounds for denial. Bovbjerg said it is usually the case that the conditions are reasonably acceptable to staff, as well as the applicant. This does not appear to be the case in this instance and she felt uneasy about this. Bovbjerg thought it would be prob- lematic to agree to a motion in which only some parties agree. Scot~ asked staff to indicate the staff position in regards to the previously proposed sidewalk for the south side of the property. Miklo said the condition to install a sidewalk that would connect Lakeside Drive with the eastern boundary of the property, and likewise to the Whispering Meadows Wetland Park to the south, had not been recommended by staff due to staff concern that no rational nexus exists between the subject property and the sidewalk, as the sidewalk would primarily serve those properties to the west. Miklo said the City may wish to consider installing the sidewalk on public property, should the applicant accept, but without placing the burden of financial assistance on the applicant. Holecek said the consideration should be that should the motion be denied, the motion is denied because RM-12 without any conditions is not an appropriate density for this property, Due to the unique character of the property, a conditional zoning agreement is needed to address the concerns raised by this rezoning, The motion was defeated on a vote of 2-4, with Scott and Sup131e In the affirmative. MOTION: Glbson moved to deny approval of REZ95-0012. Jakobsen seconded. Jakobsan said a vote to deny should send a stronger message to (~ouncil about the concams for this parcel, than a conditioned approval would. Gibson asked that procedural issues be discussed at an informal meeting of the Commission sometime in the near future. The motion carried on a vote of 4-2, with Scott and Supple voting no. TEXT AMENDMENT ITEM: 1. Public discussion of the proposed Sensitive Areas Ordinance. Miklo said the minor revisions asked of staff at the August 21, 1995, joint meeting, have been made, as stated in the memorandum from Rockwell, dated September 1, 1995. Jakobsen asked for an update on the proceedings of the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission meeting of August 30, 1995. Miklo said the meeting tended to focus on the appropriate width of a stream corridor, and included discussion about the use of a flood- plain to define a stream corridor. PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 7, 1995 PAGE 6 Bovbjerg asked whether concams about duplication have been addressed. Miklo said staff has identified several duplications with existing ordinances, and these will need to be amended or repealed. He said the recommendation to appeal the River Corridor Overlay Ordinance was one example. Regarding concems about the ability to compre- hend the ordinance, Miklo complimented the Committee for its effort to make the draft as brief as possible, given the complexity of the ordinance, without being too vague. Bovbjerg agreed, and stated that she found the brochures to be very helpful and very well oriented for the general public. Public discussion: Carol Thompson, 1116 Muscatine Avenue, agreed with comments made by Mildo and Bovbjerg and commended the Committee and staff for their efforts. Thompson asked all to keep in mind the public amenities that may be gained, or lost, with the approval of the Sensitive Areas Ordinance. Thompson feels this ordinance covers all the amenities that deserve a position in a public ordinance, e.g. the value of and protec- tion of wetlands and the protection of steep slopes. Thompson does not see the exis- tence of the ordinance precluding development of a site, rather the ordinance states up front what will be required of a developer. This should reduce the need for expensive consultants and lengthy debates. Bruce Glas¢low, 834 North Johnson Street, asked whether the City will have to follow the regulations of the ordinance. Scott said governmental agencies are exempt. Glasgow asked whether utilities are exempt. Holecek said this depends on the particular utility. Glasgow said he will not discuss the environmental concerns of wetlands and stream corridors, etc., as these need to be resolved in District Court. Glasgow said he has already gone this route on several occasions and has found that often these claims do not stand. Glasgow said this ordinance is the straw that will break the camel's back. Glasgow related the layers of bureaucracy that will be necessary to go through if the ordinance is implemented. Glasgow said the threats to trees are disease, deer, beaver, fire, flooding and drought. Glasgow said another answer is the City of Iowa City, as the City destroys more trees than all of the above. Next are the utllily companies, and then construction site damage. Glasgow said the entrance to Hickory Hill Park on First Avenue has twenty dead elm trees, yet the City does not have the time, money, or inclination to remove these. Glas- gow said he has 40 acres of timber behind the Mayflower Residence Hall where oak wilt killed 40 trees last year. These were removed. Another 40 died this year. These, too, will be removed as oak wilt is spread underground, through the mots, and prompt removal is necessary. Glasgow related the benefits to new growth of clearing debris. Glasgow related the effects of deer and their horns, and beaver that contribute to tree deterioration. Glasgow also said the rip-rap being installed on one side of the river is going to cause the other side to erode causing trees to fall into the river. Further, tree loss due to street widening and paving is substantial. Glasgow gave the Dodge Street widening at NCS, as an example where five oak trees had been removed. PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 7, 1995 PAGE 7 Glasgow said severe damage is done to trees by the mowing and maintenance habits of the City. He gave tree damage due to mowers and weed-eater use on Scott Boulevard as an example, Glasgow related an instance of a subdivision on Green Mountain Drive where the City had required him to remove 120 trees, then turned around and required that five trees be planted. Glasgow said the ordinance that states tree planting in a storm water basin is prohibited should have been repealed years ago. Glasgow said we are all familiar with utility company damage to trees, so he will skip this, Glasgow said proper care taken at construction sites simply needs to be instructed, The developers understand the value of a tree on a property and they have and will continue to protect this value. Glasgow asked what the cost to implement the ordinance would be. Glasgow feels that a staff person experienced in tree management, a car, a secretary, and a full time assis- tant will be needed, which he estimates at $110,000/year, Glasgow said he would rather spend this money planting new trees and taking care of existing maintenance needs, Glasgow said the bottom line is that the ordinance is not needed at this time. It pinpoints trees in certain areas and exempts others, Cooperation and education would better further the City's goals in preservation, It is too costly and will be the first ordinance to be discarded when belt-tightening occurs, which Glasgow feels is not far away, Glasgow said the City cannot take care of its existing matters and adequate ordinances are already in place, Glasgow suggested coercion, penalties and fines as incentives to follow existing regulations. Glasgow passed out a copy of his statement to the Planning and Zoning Commission, dated September 7, 1995, and literature regarding Lasting Woodlands, Inc., and an article titled, Techniques to Guarantee Compliance. Gibson said this draft of the Sensitive Areas Ordinance is considerably toned down, compared to the Woodlands Preservation Ordinance, which was too cumbersome. Gibson said this draft is a far better, more tempered and even-handed approach to the issue. The entire Commission appeared to agree. Regarding tl~e City and public utilities, Scott said he has long promoted greater flexibility in the installation of infrastructure, e.g, narrower street widths and the placement of utilities under the street pavement, rather than asking for extra right-of-way in sensitive areas. Scott hopes the City staff, as well as Council, will soon start accepting this idea. Laura Dowd, 517 Grandview Court, a representative of Environmental Advocates said she will address some issues brought up before the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission on August 30, Concerning Page 1, Section B. 1 .a,, Sensitive Areas Overlay Zone, Dowd said the Environmental Advocates would recommend that the 100-year floodplain be listed as a sensitive area under the zone, and should be included as an additional section between stream corridors and stream slopes. Under this new section the reader can be directed to the City Floodplain Management Ordinance for details. This addition would cover the matter of duplication issues and will not add sub- stantially to the ordinance. PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 7, 1995 PAGE 8 Dowd said Page 10, Condition 1.A., regarding natural buffers for a wetland, says, "this could be reduced by up to 50 feet if the wetland is less than five acres in area." Dowd said the Environmental Advocates would like to have this stipulation removed as it is scientifically unjustified. Klaus Richter, a wetlands ecologist, has stated that it is not the size of a wetland, but the location, use, and landscape that is critical. Smaller wetlands may require as much, if not more protection, because they have less capacity to absorb pollutants carried by runoff'. On Page 12, under Wetland Mitigation, Dowd said Environmental Advocates does not support compensatory mitigation wetlands, and recommends that this refer- ence be removed. Rarely do reconstructed wetlands resemble natural wetlands that have been destroyed. Assurances that they are constructed propedy requires years of costly monitoring and studies that are not usually followed through upon by the developer. Page 11, Section 3.B.4., states, "In determining whether to reduce, or not to reduce, the required buffer the City may consider the following:..." Dowd said Environmental Advocates asks that this say, "...the City will consider the follow- ing:..." Concerning Page 15, Section 4.A., under Stream Corridor Buffer Requirements, Dowd said Environmental Advocates asks that a rational basis be utilized in determining the buffer requirements. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recom- mends a buffer width that is two to five times the width of the stream channel, or a minimum of 50 feet, based on Wildlife Service studies of wildlife needs. Dowd said it is the understanding of Environmental Advocates that the figures the City is using have been borrowed from other ordinances, and are not necessarily scientifically valid. Page 15, 4.B., states, "The City may reduce the required natural buffer based on the following criteria:..." Dowd said the conditions listed for reducing stream corridor buffer requirements are unclear. Environmental Advocates recommends that these be clarified, if not removed completely. For example, why would buffer requirements be reduced if significant vegetative cover is not present. Benefits of a buffer could still be realized, even without native trees or prairie remnants. These would still offer protection to the stream corridor from conventional land- scaping in which lawn chemicals are used. if reductions in buffer requirements are to be allowed, then "significant vegetative cover and enhanced vegetative cover'' should either be defined in the Definitions Section, or the reader should be referred to an existing City manual where these are defined. Oowd said she is impressed by Glasgow's knowledge and evident concern for trees. Dowd pointed out that the ordinance, however, protects more than just trees and should not be denied on the basis of trees alone. Harvey Wehde, owner of Iowa City Insulation, Inc., a partner in Sand Road Investors, leassr of commercial property in Iowa City, member of the Iowa City Homebuilder's Association, and a member of the Iowa City Chamber of Commerce displayed a stack of information representing the effort and cost put into the Woodlands Ordinance. Wehde PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 7, 1995 PAGE 9 said he does work in a fifty mile radius and deals with all kinds of people. He has twenty employees, most of whom cannot afford to live in Iowa City. Wehde said the City staff and Council have lost touch with reality and the desires of the community. Wehde questioned how much taxpayer money had been spent preparing the ordinances, but said he does not want anyone to feel that just because this much effort has been placed into it means that it has to be passed. If the City is to pass this ordi- nance, the cost of housing will increase and more people will be leaving Iowa City and moving beyond the two mile limit. Iowa City is over-regulated to the point that nobody knows what is going on within their own system. We need to downsize City government, not keep adding ordinances and regulations that will bankrupt us in the near future. The cost to submit a Sensitive Areas Development Plan will run up to thousands of dollars depending on the acres involved. This ordinance has been put together in a way that the time frame for developers could be a bureaucratic monstrosity. This does not include the added costs of negotiations to get it approved. Wehde said he is a college graduate, and is the owner of a company. He felt he has made good decisions in order to be successful. He said the City must leam to stop bucl~ing the trend and realize that the country cannot continue to run in the red and must downsize. The system that now exists can handle the problems that come up with the same work force we have. Iowa City is out of touch with the market-place. We have to have Council and staff find ways to downsize City government, privatize as much as they can and become competitive in the market-place, moving into the 21st century with common sense government, not fiscal irresponsibility. Wehde said Iowa City is creating the North Corridor cdsis by chasing everyone out due to the expense and problems associated with building in Iowa City. Wehde said the Chamber of Commeme survey (200 surveys of which have been returned to date) asks, "How would you grade Iowa City staff and City Council on its performance", with a 5 equaling "impediment", a 4 equal to "somewhat an impediment", etc., down to 1. Wehde said 93% of the surveys returned claim Iowa City staff and City Council are impediments or somewhat impediments to growth and development in Iowa City. Larry Schnittjer, 1917 South Gilbert Street, with MMS Consultants, said he feels the existing Grading Ordinance is cumbersome, and yet the subject ordinance is even more cumbersome. Schnittjer felt compliance will turn into a paper nightmare. Schniltjer pointed out that if paragraph B.1 .a. is needed, then it is also needed for B.2.a. Regarding slopes, Schnittjer felt an 18%-24% grade slopes are not steep and recommend- ed these figures be raised. Regarding stream corddom, Schnittjer said blue lines on the U.S. Geological Survey maps require a 30-foot buffer. Added to the buffer requirements of the ordinance, a 60-foot wide no build stream corridor must be set aside. Schnittjer said this much buffer is a waste of valuable land. Schnittjer said as presently stated, developers will no longer be able to fill within 100-year floodplains to the floodway bound- ary, as a 15 to 50 foot buffer is needed. Schnittjer said this means buffers that have productive value will no longer be available for development. He said subdivisions such as Village Green and Village Green South could not have occurred under this ordinance, because of the stream corridor requirements along drainageways. Schnittjer stated that someone schooled in the area will need to be hired to implement the ordinance alone. PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 7, 1995 PAGE 10 MJklo said in those cases where there is no valuable stream corridor, the Committee decided that these sites where would be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and the buffer could be reduced. The buffer is not automatically 60 feet. Miklo said 1he section immedi- ately following the section Schnittjer referred to describes this. Rockwell added that Village Green South was used as an example in which the development could not occur as the developer would like and the land would not be productive due to the amount of buffer that would be required along a stream corridor. Rockwell asked the Commission to recall that the Village Green South subdivision provided more than the required buffer along the drainageway, which resulted in an ample parkway, She said this development has really followed the sense of the proposed ordinance. Scott said that we may not, however, always have a developer that was agreeable, Schnittjer added that the buffer was given away in return for something else. Rockwell pointed out that the Sensitive Areas Ordinance would not have precluded the development in Village Green South. The subdivision was developed in harmony with the intent of the ordinance, and in fact, exceeded what would be required under the proposed ordinance. Glasgow said he had recently been approached by the City to allow the installation of a water main easement through his property. Glasgow said that according to the detriment that .would result to sensitive areas, he could not allow this installation to occur. Glasgow said he does not feel this ordinance will be of assistance to the City in this regard. Scott reiterated the statement that he feels adjustments in the installation of infrastructure need to be considered by all, including the City. Barbara Beaumont, North Libertv, said she favors the ordinance and asked all to keep in mind the destruction already done to our environment, e.g. the Cliff Apartments. Richard R. Rhodes, III, 2014 Rochester Avenue, said he is a member of the Committee that developed the ordinance, Rhodes said much has been mentioned about the cost to the City if the ordinance is passed, but Rhodes felt morley will be saved in the long run. Rhodes said many tracts turn into long term maintenance problems, a cost that is usually home by the taxpayer. Rhodes said the conservation aspects are important, but are secondary with respect to the long-term savings and protection that will result. Schnittjer added in regard to inappropriate development, after all this time, only one project has been illustrated as a long-term maintenance problem. Schnittjer said if really only one problem property exists, then we are asking for unnecessary trouble with this ordinance. Schnittjer felt the current ordinances could be better utilized. Schnittjer also added that if the City wants the extra buffer, it should be willing to purchase it. Public discussion closed. Scott said due to the Labor Day Holiday, the informal meeting of the Commission was not held this week, therefore, the Commission wished to defer this item to the September 21, 1995, meeting. MOTION: Dterks moved to defer discussion of the Sensitive Areas Ordinance to the September 21, 1995, meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission. Jakobsan seconded. PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 7, 1995 PAGE 11 Scott wished to state that of all boards, commissions and committees he has had the privilege to serve upon, the Sensitive Areas Committee had one of the best working relationships. Scott felt the Committee was very productive and ensured that all the issues had been thoroughly reviewed. Likewise, the Committee stands to blame for anything that has not been adequately considered, not staff. Scott thanked staff for its assistance however. He strongly urged support of the ordinance. Scott added that the document is not going to harm development. Scott said the argument that too much money had been spent in the drafting of the document comes from an illogical premise, that is, that the position of the person who made this statement is correct. Scott said no one, including himself, is so good that their position is correct all the time and no one else has something good to offer. Scott said he is very pleased with the compromise that had been achieved in the production of this document. The motion carried on a vote of 6-0. Discussion of a recommendation from the Design Review Committee to review the sign regulations as they pertain to the definition of time/temperature signs and the definition of projecting signs. Scott asked Gibson to state his position on this item. Gibson said he is bewildered that a person can simply install either a time register and/or a temperature register on a business sign, and this somehow validates a way for the person to side-step the sign ordinance and install a sign that projects farther into the right-of-way than would have been allowed otherwise. Gibson feels this is wrong and was never intended to be the intent of the sign ordinance. Public discussion: There was none. Public discussion closed. MOTION: BovbJerg moved to direct City staff to draw up text that would amend the Clty's Sign Ordinance concerning time/temperature signs. Gibson seconded. Bovbjerg thanked Gibson for this input, saying the acceptance of time and/or temperature displays appeared to be good at the time, but has created a loop hole that was never intended. The motion carried on a vote of 6-0. DEVELOPMENTiTEMS: SUB95-0019. Public discussion of a request submitted by Lyle Donohoe for preliminary and final plat approval of Donohoe Fourth Subdivision, an 11.35 acre, two-lot commercial subdivision located in Fringe Area 1 on the south side of Highway 1 at its intersection with Landon Road. (45-day limitation period: waived to September 7, 1995.) PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 7, 1995 PAGE 12 Kugler said staff recommends that SUB95-0019, be approved, subject to the approval of legal papers by the City Attorney's Office prior to Council consideration of the final plat. Gibson asked whether the plat addresses the concerns raised in the staff report, in particular, the access to Highway 1. Kugler said a note had been added to the plat that would restdct access to Highway 1 from Lot 1, and that the only access to Lot I would be through the existing access easements. Kugler said this note on the plat is agreeable to the developer. Publlc dlscusslon: There was none. Public dlscusslon closed. MOTION: Supple moved to approve SUB95-0019, a request submitted by Lyle Donohoe for prellmlnary and final plat approval of Donoboe Fourth Subdivision, an 11.35 acre, two-lot commercial subdivision located In Fringe Area 1 on the south side of Highway I at its Intersection with Landon Road, subject to the approval of legal papers by the City Attorney's Office prior to Council conslderatlon of the final plat. Bovbjerg seconded. The Commission felt all that can be said has been said and there appears to be no way to make the position of the City understood in these matters. The motion carrted on a vote of 6-0, SUB95-0025. Public discussion of a request submitted by Arlington, L.C. for preliminary and final plat approval of Windsor Ridge - Part Six, a resubdivision of Tract "A," Windsor Ridge - Part One, and Outlot "A," Windsor Ridge - Part Three, a 7.8 acre, seven-lot residential subdivision with two outlots located north of American Legion Road and west of Arlington Drive. (45-day limitation period: September 11, 1995.) Rockwell said this seven-lot residential subdivision conforms with the general require- ments of the RS-5 zone, and also with the subdivision regulations. All of the deficiencies and discrepancies have been resolved and staff recommends approval of the preliminary and final plats, subject to approval of the legal papers by the City Attorney's Office prior to Council consideration of the final plat. Rockwell said it is understood that the annex- ation approval must be received from the Secretary of State prior to Council consideration. Scott confirmed that staff would take care of that procedural item. Public discussion: There was none. Public discussion closed, MOTION: Gibson moved to approve SUB95-0025, a request submitted by Arlington, L.C. for prellmlnary and final plat approval of W. Indsor Ridge o Part Six, a reaubdlvl- PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 7, 1995 PAGE 13 sion of Tract "A," Windsor Ridge o Part One, and Outlot "A," Windsor Ridge - Part Three, a 7.8 acre, seven-lot residential subdivision with two outlots located north of American Legion Road and west of Arlington Drive, subject to approval of the legal papers by the City Attorney's Office prior to Council consideration of the final plat. Jakobsen seconded. There was no Commission discussion. The motion carried on a vote of 6-0. SUB95-0026. Public discussion of a request submitted by Southgate Development, Inc. for final plat approval of Kennedy's Waterfront Addition, Part Three, a 31.23 acre, 11-lot commercial subdivision located south of Highway 1 between Gilbert Street and the Iowa River. (45-day limitation period: September 11, 1995.) Kugler said Pubiic Works has given approval of the final plat and all the deficiencies and discrepancies have been resolved. There are still, however, some off-site dedication issues that were placed as conditions on the preliminary plat that need to be addressed in the legal papers and construction drawings. Kugler said staff recommends that SUB95-0026 be approved, subject to the following occurring prior to Council consideration of the final plat: 1) approval of the construction drawings by Public Works; and 2) approval by the City Attorney's Office of legal papers which address the conditions placed on the approval of the preliminary plat. Scott asked whether the conditions deal with the provision of sanitary sewer and the dedication of right-of-way for the future expansion of Southgate Avenue. Kugler said this is correct, although there are some off-site issues in regard to the extension of Southgate Avenue that need to be resolved prior to Council consideration of the final plat. Kugler clarified that the property is under new ownership and that ownership changed hands between the preliminary and final plat approval processes. The new owner feels the previous owner should have been responsible for the dedication of the right-of-way. Publlc discussion: Larrv Schnittjer, 1917 South Gilbert Street, MMS Consultants, said he will be meeting with both the previous owner and the new owner on Monday. Schnittjer said it was his understanding from discussions with the Director of Public Works, and the previous owners, that Kennedy would have the right-of-way dedicated, by separate document, at such time as the City desired to have the dedication done. Public discussion closed. MOTION: Bovbjerg moved to approve SUB95-0026, a request submitted by South- gate Development, Inc, for final plat approval of Kennedy's Waterfront Addition, Part Three, a 31.23 acre, 11-1ot commercial subdivision located south of Highway 1 between Gilbert Street and the Iowa River, subject to the following occurring prior to Council consideration of the final plat: 1) the approval of the construction drawings by Public Works; and 2) the approval by the City Attorney's Office of legal papers which address the conditions placed on the approval of the preliminary plat, i.e. conditions that deal with provision of sanitary sewer to the site and the dedlca- PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 7, 1995 PAGE 14 fion of right-of-way for the future expansion of Southgate Avenue. Jakobsan seconded. There was no Commission discussion. The motion carried on a vote of 6-0. SUB95-0027. Public discussion of a request submitted by East Hill Subdivision, Inc. for final plat approval of East Hill Subdivision, a 13.04 acre, 36-1ot residential subdivision located north of Muscatine Avenue, west of Dover Street and Perry Court (formerly referred to as 655 Meadow Street). (45-day limitation period: October 2, 1995.) Kugler said the proposed final plat appears to be in general conformance with the prelimi- nary plat in terms of street and lot configuration, although there have been some changes to the storm and sanitary sewer easements. The configuration of the easements will be finalized when construction drawings are approved. Kugler reminded the Commission that the property was the subject of a conditional zoning agreement, which included the dedication to the City of the Ralston Creek floodplain, as well as the dedication to the City of the former "Outlot A" and the former "Outlot B," all of whic'h are referred to as "Outlot A" on the final plat. Scott noted that upon consideration of the preliminary plat at Council, the developer had volunteered to dedicate $5,000 for the construction of the trail system along Ralston Creek, as well as dedicate the floodplain and "Outlots A and B". Publlc discussion: There was none. Public discussion closed. MOTION: Gibson moved to approve SUB95-0027, a request submitted by East Hill Subdivision, Inc. for final plat approval of East Hill Subdivision, a 13.04 acre, 36-1ot rasidentlal subdivision located north of Muscatlne Avenue, west of Dover Street and Perry Court (formerly referred to as 655 Meadow Street), subject to: 1) the approval of legal papers by the City Attorney's Office prior to Council consideration of the final plat, and 2) the approval of the construction drawings by Public Works prior to Council consideration of the final plat. Jakobsen seconded. Gibson wished to know whether the $5,000 dedication is tied to the properly indefinitely, or if there is a time limit. Holecek said the legal papere will address that should the trail system not be constructed within a certain time period, the developer may request a withdrawal of this dedication. Gibson said this would be acceptable. Dierks said there have been bulldozers on the site and some grading has been occurring. Dicrk.~ asksd whether this is appropriate. Miklo said the Grading and Eresion Control permit had been approved by Public Works. Miklo said typically a developer will wait until the final plat has been approved before starting work, but as there were few technical PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 7, 1995 PAGE 15 deficiencies and discrepancies, the developer apparently felt there would be few alter- ations from this point on. The motion carried on a vote of 6~0. CONSIDERATION OF AUGUST 17, 1995, PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION MINUTES: Scott asked that the last line be changed to add, "Scott felt the Press-Citizen should do more research before ~opDin.q off with their opinions." MOTION: Bovbjerg moved to approve the minutes of the August 17, 1995, meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commlsslon, as amended at tonlght's meeting. Jakobsen seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 5-0-1, with Dlerks abstaining. PLANNING AND ZONING CO. MMISSION INFORMATION: Scott asked that Gibson's request to discuss the subject of conditions and conditional zoning agreements be scheduled for an October agenda. Starr and Supple are to attend the Planning Seminar to be held in Cedar Rapids, on September 15, 1995. Jakobsen said Council was curious at its meeting of August 25, 1995, why the Planning and Zoning Commission had reduced the density to 8 for Mormon Trek Village, when the zone already allows a density of 8-10. Of course, they had not yet heard from the neighbors. The relationship between the Commission's amendment to the density and the Comprehensive Plan was dis- cussed, and it was suggested the Council refer back to the minutes regarding this discussion. Scott noted the articles that had recently been published in both the Press-Citizen and the Gazette, regarding the Fringe Area Agreement. Scott felt the Gazette article more accurately reflected his viewpoint. Scott said his viewpoint, whether reflected in the articles or not is that he does not think the main issues of an automatic two-mile extension, and more flexibility in the southwest and west quadrants are insurmountable. Scott said the Supervisors' always appear to be more upset in the press than in the conversations he has with them. The two parties are much closer to agreement than the papere reflect. Scott said that should the issue be brought back to the Fringe Area Committee, he would recommend that only these two issues be dealt with. Scott felt an agreement can be reached, and needs to be reached, as the present arrangement is, by and large, not being lived up to by the County. Scott said he had stated for the Council, on behalf of the Commission, that the Commission feels it is unfair to ask the Commission to bastardize its principles to recommend in favor of something, when in fact, both political bodies refuse to change what neither one appears to be satisfied with. OTHER BUSINESS: There was none. PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 7, 1995 PAGE 16 ADJOURNMENT: MOTION: Dlerks moved to adjourn at 10:12 p.m. BovbJerg seconded, The motion carried on a vote of 6-0. Sally Dierks, Secretary Minutes submitted by Jeff Haring. DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE SPECIAL MEETING AUGUST 21, 1995- 4:00 PM IOWA CITY CIVIC CENTER- LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: Nancy Footner, Clara Swan, Marty Haynes, Gilda Six, Karyl Larson MEMBERS ABSENT: Gary Nagle, Laura Hawks, Larry Quigley, Bill Nowysz STAFF PRESENT: David Schoon, Bradley Chamberlain CALL TO ORDER: Vice Chairperson Clara Swan called the meeting to order at 4:12 p.m. DISCUSSION REGARDING TIME/TEMPERATURE SIGNS AND PROJECTING SIGNS Swan introduced Ron Boose, Senior Building Inspector who was attending the meeting at the request of the Design Review Committee. Discussion focused initially concerning the time/temp sign for Uncommon Grounds that previously came before the Committee. The Committee wondered if a person can get a projecting sign by just adding a thermometer? The Committee felt that the design and integrity of signs could become jeopardized due to this loophole. It was the sentiment of the Design Review Committee that good design was preferable to bending the rules to put a sign out. Boose stated that in order to change the ordinance, the Planning and Zoning Commission would have to look at that issue at a future meeting; however, if they did not, nothing could really be changed. Haynes stated that the sign was just a projecting sign with time/temp aspect to comply with code. The design of the sign was good alone without the thermometer; nonetheless, the time/temp aspect validated the sign to the Building Department. Swan asserted that the Planning and Zoning Commission must be made aware of this sign and the loophole involved. Schoon recommended to the Committee to send a recommendation to the Planning and Zoning Commission about the issue of projecting signs. A memo could address how the Committee perceived the issue, and if that was the intent of the law or did the issue need to be looked at more closely? Footner commented that she was confused about why canopies were not seen as projecting signs. Boose elaborated on the definitions and different aspects of a marquee sign versus a canopy sign. He spoke about the controversy surrounding the zoning ordinance in 1983 involving Burger King. There was some controversy in changing the former theater marquee into an advertising sign for Burger King. The Committee questioned further about canopy, awning and marquee signs. Boose then elaborated on the definitions of canopies and awnings. The Committee discussed the controversy surrounding the Pizza Hut sign. Pizza Hut was ordered to take down their sign because of a permit that was issued in error, but has yet to remove the sign. DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE AUGUGT 21, 1995 PAGE 2 Footner briefly left the meeting but returned momentarily. Larson asked about guidelines concerning the amount of space that could be used for graphics on a sign. Boose stated that it was 15%. Swan recommended that a motion be made to the Planning and Zoning Commission to review projecting signs and the loophole. Schoon asked if the Committee wished to indicate to the Planning and Zoning Commission what type of priority this issue is. The Committee responded that this item was not an immediate priority. The Committee thanked Boose for his time and comments. He left the meeting at 4:43 p.m. Haynes moved and Footnet seconded to recommend that the Planning and Zoning Commission review the sign regulations as they pertain to the definition of time and temperature signs and the definition of projecting signs. There was no further discussion concerning the motion. The motion carried 5-0. Schoon added that Sept. 7 was the next Planning and Zoning Commission formal meeting. The Committee chose Haynes and Swan to be representatives for the Design Review Committee at the meeting. DISCUSSION OF AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE TO ESTABLISH A DESIGN REVIEW OVERLAY ZONE (ODR) Swan stated that a sub-committee had put together two new brochures. Schoon outlined some of the changes to the brochures. The brochure format was different from when the Committee last saw the brochures. The purpose of one brochure was to explain what is Design Review? The brochure also gives a history of the Design Review Committee and what the Committee has done up to the present. The other brochure was to explain the proposed design review overlay zone ordinance. The Committee felt that there were items lacking in the brochure. The Committee spent the rest of the meeting rewording the brochure, CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES OF THE JULY 31, 1995 MEETING Larson moved and Six seconded approval of the minutes from the July 31, 1995 meeting. The motion carded by a vote of 5-0. Haynes left the meeting at 6:10 pro. There was not a quorum present after this; however, the Committee members present continued to discuss the brochure. Footnet left the meeting at 6:32 p.m. DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE AUGUST 21, 1995 PAGE 3 COMMITTEE DISCUSSION _There was none. PUBLIC DISCUSSION Them was none. ADJOURNMENT Swan adjourned the meeting at 6:35 p.m. Minutes submitted by Brad Chamberlain e¢o~evVrm~DR~8-2~ MINUTES DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE AUGUST 30, 1995 - 4:00 PM IOWA CITY CIVIC CENTER- LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: Nancy Foother, Clara Swan, Marty Haynes, Gilda Six, Karyl Larson, Laura Hawks, MEMBERS ABSENT: Gary Nagle, Larry Quigley, Bill Nowysz, Martin Haynes STAFF PRESENT: David Schoon, Bradley Chamberlain CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Laura Hawks called the meeting to order at 4:05 p,m, DISCUSSION REGARDING DESIGN REVIEW OVERLAY ZONE ORDINANCE: Hawks stated that the Design Review Committee was originally to meet with the Planning and Zoning Commission in September for the Commission's consideration of the proposed design review overlay ordinance. She recommends that the Commission defer consideration of this issue for some time. Hawks stated that she believes the Committee did not have the constituency nor the support of the community. A large time commitment and effort was needed of the Committee to educate the community. Hawks stated that many steps are involved to get this issue passed and the Committee must proceed carefully and thoroughly with follow-up activities to ensure its success. Clara Swan reiterated that more work needed to be done to get the ordinance adopted. Commitment and dedication were needed by all members. Swan stated that Doug Russell should be contacted concerning the Historic Commission's steps toward passing their historic preservation overlay ordinance in 1982. The Committee was handed a table which divided the goal of adopting the proposed ordinance into different phases, with tasks and a target date for each item. Hawks summarized the four phases being 1 ) preparation, 2) education, 3) persuasion, and 4) approval. Hawks noted that the Committee should meet twice a month, instead of one time in order to get these tasks accomplished. A discussion followed concerning different ideas to be incorporated into a slide show presentation. Some examples included different shop fronts in the downtown area and how people viewed them, i,e. - the pub being built next to Pizza Hut, and the Osco Drug Sign. Hawks noted that the Committee should find persons who support the proposed ordinance. Those people would be utilized to help educate the general public. The Committee should learn to answer negative feedback, develop a teamwork attitude and maintain an internal support structure. Larson stated that role plays would help in getting the Committee use to questions and feedback from the public. Design Review Committee August 30, 1995 Page 2 Hawks stated that not enough people were attending the design review meetings for the Committee to be effective as a team unit. If people could not commit themselves, they should think about resigning. Hawks noted that some members may not be prepared to involve themselves in such a task. Schoon stated that it would take some time to appoint new members to the committee if some chose not to continue. Larson questioned if the Committee wanted the ordinance to be an election issue. Schoon stated the difficulty in persuasion and education during the election time. The timing could help the issue or hinder it. Schoon asked the committee if the majority agreed with the time schedule presented in the handout, and all were in agreement. The Committee spent time discussing which persons wanted to handle specific issues on the work schedule, and how people could effectively handle being involved in more than one project at a time. Footnor commented that an awards ceremony concerning good design be done near the end of the work schedule. Downtown businesses could be nominated in different categories. The ceremony date was suggested to be in early November during the DTA annual membership meeting. Hawks stated that Larry Quigley was .moving to Coralville and would not be able to continue on the Committee. It was discussed that a designer, architect, or attorney would be suitable on the Committee. Larson questioned the current status of projecting signs with the Planning and Zoning Commission. It was stated that the Design Review Committee recommendation will go to the Planning and Zoning Commission next Thursday. They will be asked to review the definition of time/temp signs and a projecting sign, COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: There was none, PUBLIC DISCUSSION: There was none. ADJOURNMENT: Hawks adjourned the meeting at 5:00 p.m. ecodevtm~rt~t 8-30DRC MINUTES IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION TUESDAY, JULY 11, 1995 - 5:30 P.M. LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM - CIVIC CENTER MEMBERS PRESENT: Kay Irelan, Betty Kelly, Sue Licht, Mike Pugh, Doug Russell, John Shaw MEMBERS ABSENT: Ginalie Swaim STAFF PRESENT: Kugler, Haring OTHERS PRESENT: Dean Corbae, Rick Thompson CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Russell called the meeting to order at 5:37 p.m. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: There was none. SECTION 106 REVIEW: 1506 OLD DUBUQUE ROAD (DEMOLITION): Kugler explained that there is a proposal to construct affordable housing units on this property using CDBG funds. The property contains a historic structure, a foursquare with some prairie details, built in the early part of this (~entury. Photographs of this structure were distributed. Kugler noted that the date of construction was not specifically known, but that ownership changed in 1906 and again in 1919, and it is likely that it was constructed around either of those periods. Russell asked if this was the housing project that had recently been turned down by the Planning and Zoning Commission. Kugler replied yes. Russell asked if this decision was still required by the Commission. Kugler noted that the project will be brought forward to the City Council, at that it is still alive at this point. Kugler stated that the proposal is to demolish the building, and that because federal funds are involved, the Commission must determine whether or not it is eligible for the National Register. Staff's assessment of the building is that it is clearly not eligible as part of a historic district, as there are only a few older structures in the immediate area. Individually it does not appear to satisfy the National Register Criteria. Shaw asked if the house has been abandoned. Licht noted that the site inventory says that it is vacant. Kugler confirmed, noting that it has been vacant for quite some time. Shaw asked if the interior had been vandalized. Kugler replied that most or all of the windows are intact, but that he had never seen the inside. The foundation appears to be in bad shape. Russell asked for a clarification of the application of the National Register Criteria to this structure. Kugler stated that the criteria deal with the building's association with important events in the past, important persons, whether the structure represents the work of a master builder or is exceptionally important architecturally, or whether the building is likely to yield information that is important to history or pre-history. It would be difficult to make a case for this building under any of these criteria. Historic Preservation Commission July 11, 1995 Page 2 Pugh asked what type of research had been done on the building. Kugler replied that another staff person did the research, and he wasn't sure exactly what resources were investigated. Kugler pointed out that copies of old deeds for the property are part of the file. MOTION: Pugh moved that the Commission find that the historic structure located at 1506 Old Dubuque Road is not eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. Irelan seconded. Shaw asked if the possibility of moving the building had been looked into. Kugler said that there had not been any discussion of moving the building that he is aware of. Licht noted that the structure appears to be in decent shape based on the photos that were passed out, and that there haven't been many alterations to it. Russell stated that there is probably vacant land nearby to move the building to. Shaw said that the City has moved houses in the past for affordable housing, and that affordable housing is being proposed for this property, why throw out this building that could be put to similar use. The Commission agreed. Russell directed staff to send a memo regarding this possibility to the Community Development staff, Friends of Historic Preservation, and anyone else who may be of help. The motion carried on a vote of 6-0. CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS FOR 314 BROWN STREET: Dean Corbae, co-owner of the property, and Rick Thompson, Contractor, were present to discuss the renovations. Thompson briefed the Commission on the plans for the project, stating that this phase of the renovations include removal of the present garage at the rear of the residential structure, and replacing it with a two story residential addition. Thompson displayed concept plans of the renovation. A previous phase of the renovations, accepted by the Commission at the June 12, 1995 meeting, proposed the construction of a replacement garage at the rear of the lot. Thompson said construction on the new garage began today. Thompson said the addition will include a new, poured concrete foundation with two floors above ground. Thompson said he intends to mimic the architectural features of the rest of the house in the addition. Thompson said he intends to match the width of panel trim and to utilize Anderson Window Company windows. The concept plans called for transom windows in several locations, including the north elevation, above the first floor door, and again on the east elevation. Thompson said the transom design was utilized because it ~s utilized in a humDer of places in the present structure, and the transom window allows extra light inside. Licht and Kelly, however, felt the transom look was not appropriate above the windows, but okay above the doors. Kelly noted that the transom appearing window in the front of the structure is actually a fixed, stained glass window, which is typical of the Queen Anne period. Licht proposed the use of a taller double-hung window, in place of the proposed transom windows. Licht also suggested avoiding the Anderson window, as it is her opinion that Anderson windows are the least historically appropriate eouble-hung replacement window, because the profile is so thin. Thompson was provided with the names of several alternate window companies. Lastly, Licht asked that some additional effort be made to try to center the second floor windows above the door on the east elevation. Shaw sai ~ over the course of viewing this project, he has concerns about the appearance of the poured concrete foundation. Shaw said because a good portion of the basement wall will be Historic Preservation Commission July 11, 1995 Page 3 exposed in some areas, he would like to avoid the appearance of wood molds that had been pulled off of the concrete. Shaw suggested a burnishing, or hand-dressing of the concrete while the concrete is still semi-wet, in order to smooth out the surface. MOTION: Kelly moved to grant a Certificate of Appropriateness to 314 Brown Street, pursuant to the submitted plans, subject to 1) the utilization of double-hung window(s) on the second floor, north elevation, and first floor, east elevation, rather thah transom windows; 2) that every effort be made to utilize a window that has a sash profile that matches the windows in the existing structure; 3) that the side walls of the concrete foundation be hand-dressed or burnished; and 4) an effort is made to match the features of the existing structure, as detailed in the submitted, modified plans. Licht seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 6-0. DISCUSSION OF COMMISSION BY-LAWS/MEMBERSHIP RULES: Russell noted the m. emorandum in the Commissioner packets, dated April 19, 1995, from the City Clerk, regarding vacancies in unexpired terms. MOTION: Shaw moved to amend the Commission by-laws to accept the language regarding vacancies in unexpired terms, stated in the memorandum from Anne G. Burnside, First Assistant City Attorney, dated June 26, 1995. Pugh seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 6-0. Regarding Commission membership, K~gler said the memorandum from Sarah Holecek, Assistant City Attorney, dated June 26, 1995, essentially says that it is mandated by State law that every designated historic district be allowed to have a district representative sit on the Commission. Russell said this means that unless the State law is changed, the Commission must decide how many at-large members of the Commission there is to be. Russell said he feels he speaks for all of the Commission members when he says that he feels at-large members are needed, one, to reduce the chances of the Commission becoming a special interest group, and two, to provide the necessary expertise. The Commission agreed. Russell said it is understood that the Commission can allow as many at-large members as it chooses, but in order to somewhat balance things out, the Commission size may become too unwieldy. Kugler said that Des Moines and Dubuque have faced a similar situation. Kugler said in these cases it has been suggested that once membership is too large to be efficient, that a separate sub-committee be established to review certain aspects of Commission's activity such as design review. The entire Commission would oversee the recommendations of the sub-committees and would continue to act on more important issues, such as ordinance changes, etc. Kugler pointed out that these ideas are still in the concept stage and there has not yet been a need to institute them. Kugler said he will try and get more information along these lines. Kugler pointed out that the City Attorney feels that no changes in membership need to take place until March 1996, as several terms will be concluding at that time. Shaw, however, the Summit Street representative to the Commission, will be moving from Summit Street before the end of his term. The Commission asked Kugler to look into whether someone that was appointed to represent a specific district may continue to serve on the Commission if he/she moves out of that district before the end of his/her term. In conclusion, the Commission felt that as there is not much choice in the matter and that because the issue is mandated by State law, an attempt should be made to change the State law. Historic Preservation Commission July 11, 1995 Page 4 DISCUSSION OF SUMMIT STREET BRIDGE REPLACEMEINYT PROJECT: Kugler noted the memorandum from Jeff Davidson, Transportation Planner, regarding the two concerns the Commission had raised at its June 12, 1995, meeting. Russell noted that a copy of the Summit Street Conservation Plan, produced in December 1990, was also included in the member packets. Russell noted that Davidson still expects a Commission recommendation, if the Commission so chooses, by September 15, 1995, so DavidsOn can proceed on schedule. Shaw said the elevation question had bean sufficiently answered, but he feels the question of width is still too vague. Shaw noted that for all the reasons that have been stated on a number of occasions, the Summit Street residents are adamant about the width issue. It was suggested that the Commission make a recommendation that the width not increase beyond the present width. The Commission asked Kugler to seak further clarification on the width. Regarding design features, the Commission suggested that the City hire out design expertise. The Commission felt that for the size of the project it is really beyond the scope of the Commission to make design recommendations. The Commission will be happy to review design alternatives when these are available. It was pointed out that N.N.W. Consultants are involved for engineering reasons, but engineers are not necessarily architects. APPOINTMENT TO THE TASK FORCE ON CITY PLAZA: Russell noted receipt of the memorandum from Stephen Arkins, City Manager, dated June 15, 1995, regarding the recent authorization of the City Council to create a task force on the City Plaza renovations/maintenance. Shaw volunteered to be the Historic Preservation Commission representative to the task force. DISCUSSION OF ORDINANCE-TIGHTENING AMENDMENTS: The Commission deferred this item to the August meeting. DISCUSSION OF ANNUAL REPORT: Kugler referred to the July 11, 1995, draft of the Annual Report, included in the member packets. Russell asked that item 9, on page two, list only the name of the main award winner, the number of awards distributed within each category, deleting the names and addresses of each award winner. Russell also asked that items 10-13 be condensed. Licht pointed out that item 13, on page 4, say, prepare for the 1~90 awards program. Kugler noted that item 1, page 3, should say implementation. rather than implantation. The Commission asked that the grant amounts be double checked. DISCUSSION OF SCHEDULING A SPECIAL MEETING TO REVIEW DUBUQUE STREET CORRIDOR PROPOSALS: Special thanks were given to Mike Pugh, Commission Member, and Scott Kugler, Staff, for getting the Dubuque Street Corridor Request For Proposal put together on such short notice. The Commission scheduled the Special Meeting for Tuesday, July 25, 1995, at 5:30 p.m., in the Civic Center Lobby Conference Room to review proposals submitted for this project, Historic Preservation Commission July 11, 1995 Page 5 DISCUSSION OF SCHEDULING SEPTEMBER ANNUAL PLANNING SESSION: The Commission tentatively scheduled the Annual Planning Meeting for Saturday, September 9, 1995, at 10:00 a.m., in the Civic Center Lobby Conference Room. The date is to be confirmed at the August meeting. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES OF THE JUNE 12, 1995 MEETING: Russell asked the motion for a Certificates of Appropriateness, not include more specific titles for a project than stated on the agenda as this may confuse the issue more than help. Russell asked that page 5, under Discussion of Commission By-Laws, fourth sentence, say "Commission membership inqludes four...", striking oonaiate of. Kelly said she had attempted to stress at the June meeting, and wishes to have added to the minutes under discussion of the Iowa Heritage Expo, that in the future there will be an increasing number of CLG Commissions vying for more scarce funding. Kelly says this as a warning that the competition for funding will get increasingly more difficult and will put more pressure on the Commission to raise funding from alternate sources. MOTION: Kelly moved to approve the minutes of the June 12, 1995, as amended at tonight's meeting. Russell seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 6-0. COMMISSION INFORMATION/DISCUSSION: Conservation District/Landmark Ordinance update. Russell said that the Conservation District Ordinance passed the Planning and Zoning Commission on a 4-2 vote. Russell said P&Z Commission members Jakobsen and Starr do not like the concept of design review, as per the words of Jakobsen, The Ordinance now goes to the City Council where it will be open for public comment at the first Council meeting in August. Russell said there has not been opposition to date, but would still like a strong support group present, The Landmark Ordinance passed the Planning and Zoning Commission on a vote of 6-0, and with no controversy. Russell said P&Z Members were quoted as saying that the Ordinance was long overdue. Kugler noted that the Planning and Zoning Commission had approved an amendment to the Landmark Ordinance, because the State Historical Society has asked that archaeological sites be listed within the definition of Historic Landmark. Kelly asked to receive a list of the designated Historic Landmarks. Kugler said this is printed in the Preservation Plan and will forward a copy to Kelly. 2. Discussion of HRDP clrant aDi31ication for the Colleqe Hill District. Kugler said the State Historical Society of Iowa has scheduled an HRDP grant application prioritizing meeting in Des Moines on Thursday, August 10, 1995, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.. This meeting is open to the public, but not necessarily open for public comment. Historic Preservation Commission July 11, 1995 Page 6 3. Transcript from a Dreseotation bv James Howard Kunstler renardincl neotraditional town plannin.q. Inserted for Commission Member information. Pugh said he had sent a copy of the transcript to John Murphy, President of the Downtown Association, because he knows Murphy is quite concerned about these issues. 4. Summit Street hitchinq Dost update. Kugler said Public Works is reluctant to get involved in the repairs. Public Works feels a private firm that would accept the project should be contacted, and Public Works will then excavate it from the ground and haul it to the site of the repairs. The Commission asked Kugler to look into whose budget, whether the Commission's or Public Works, etc., may cover the expenses o~ the project. 5. Update on Desinn Review Committee. Russell said that in discussion with representatives from the Design Review Committee at the Commission's June 12, 1995 meeting, it was suggested that the Design Review Committee seek information about the Main Street Program, as it is a new source of funding. Russell said he will check with the Committee to see if it has made any progress in this area. Kugler noted that the Planning ~nd Zoning Commission does not appear to favor a design review overlay zone, a subject that the Design Review Committee has been examining for the last year. 6. Lonqfellow Neiclhborhood Survey progress report. Molly Myers Naumann submitted a progress report, dated July 10, 1995, 7. Follow-up on Joint Meetinns. Johnson County Historic Preservation Commission: The Commission requested feedback regarding state tax relief for historic properties from the County Commission by the August meeting. Friends of Historic Preservation: The Commission requested feedback from Friends regarding historic marker plaques by the August meeting of the Commission. 8. Iowa Department of Transportation will be holding a local Statewide Transportation Improvement Program meeting on August 9, 1995, in the Civic Center, at 4:00 p.m., room undetermined. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 7:26 p.m. MINUTES 'SPECIAL MEETING' IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION TUESDAY, JULY 25, 1995 - 5:30 P.M. LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM - CIVIC CENTER MEMBERS PRESENT: MEMBERS ABSENT: STAFF PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Kay Irelan, Sue Licht, Mike Pugh, Doug Russell '~,~,~,,., Betty Kelly, John Shaw, Gin a lie Swaim ,~,~),~ ~~,~'~ None CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Russell called the meeting to order at 5:39 p.m. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF A~IY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA. There was none. DISCUSSION OF PROPOSALS SUBMITTED FOR THE DUBUQUE STREET CORRIDOR SURVEY AND ELEVATION. Kugler said $17,332 will be available for the survey and elevation, $9,000 in Federal CLG funds and $8,332 in matching City of Iowa City funds. Kugler went over the proposed budget. Kugler clarified that of the City funds, there is approximately $1,300 in soft costs that add up as these items and services are used. Therefore, only approximately $1 6,000 is allocated specifically to this project. Kugler said the goal is to have a draft contract in to the State by August 1. 1995. Kugler passed out a Summary of Proposals for the Dubuque Street Corridor, dated July 25, 1995. The Commission went over the proposal of each applicant. Patricia Eckhardt: Eckhardt is an Iowa Citian with formal training in the area. Pugh questioned the photography expanse that was three times the amount of any other proposal. Russell questioned the, perhaps, unrealistic reliance on volunteers in the proposal and the lack of a secondary support professional. The Commission agreed that the volunteers will not be as readily available in this distrmt as in other districts due to the commercial, fraternity/sorority and short term, renter characteristics of the residents. People tend to take part when there is something that affects their neighborhood, but not necessarily when they are short term inhabitants. Licht felt that Eckhardt had underestimated the amount of time to do the necessary work, almost 400 hours less than the Naumann proposal, and she doesn't have a paid assistant to pick up some of the work load. It was noted that Eckhardt is somewhat new in the field and perhaps underesti- mated the hours in order to get her foot in the door and establish a name for herself. The Commission felt that the Naumann proposal is probably a realistic amount of hours and could not envision that Eckhardt would be able to make up 400 hours in volunteer assistance, lending some to believe she would be hard pushed to complete the necessary work in time or Historic Preservation Commission Special Meeting July 25, 1995 Page 2 without asking for additional funds for another assistant. It was pointed out that Eckhardt does live in and is familiar with the area, which may save her some time in research. Loukes & Associates: Russell liked the fact that Loukes intended to make monthly 'site visits and attend all of the regular meetings of the Commission throughout the period of the survey. Mr. Nunnelly, one of the principals of the group, is a University of Iowa Ph.D., and would be somewhat familiar with the town. Russell said the down side to the proposal was the fact that they would be traveling from out of state and would have a $3,400 expense budget. Russell also questioned that page seven, under Expected Results, is a statement that reads, "Site inventories will be developed as appropriate". Russell said inventories will be needed for every building and he questioned the amount of time that was estimated to complete the project as a result. It was pointed out that this may be one reason the estimated hours was relatively low. The Commis- sion, again, questioned the ability to rely on volunteers, especially for a group that does not have established ties to the community. Kugler also pointed out that the hourly rate was relatively high and that the grant program allows a maximum of 845 per hour. Laura Thaver & Associates: Again, volunteers may be relied upon, though there did not appear to be as much reliance on volunteers as in other proposals. Kugler said he had spoken to Thayer, and he let her know that interns will be available to perform some of the more routine duties. Licht pointed out Thayer intends to utilize a Field Surveyor at a lower hourly rate, which Licht felt was a positive. Licht, however, noted that Thayer only intended to attend the first and last meetings of the Commission. The Commission appeared to feel that the document of prior work was impressive and well organized. Licht felt that the examples were different than what the Commission desires because it was a different type of project. In short, the Commission found it difficult to justify $5,300 in expenses, most of which would be travel expenses. Molly Mvers Naumann: The initial question asked by the Commission was whether an additional project would be too much for Naumann to handle. Kugler said that Naumann has stated that this would be a positive for her in that there would be some overlap between the two projects -- easier than having two projects in two different cities. The Commission has been satisfied by her output in the past. The Commission noted that Naumann will also utilize a Field Surveyor who has worked w~th her in the past, an experience factor. Pugh questioned the estimated number of hours, especially for someone who has knowledge of the area and has an experienced staff. Kugler pointed out that Naumann does not intend to utilize City interns very extensively. Russell pointed out that Naumann is over budget. Licht suggested that Naumann submit a revised proposal in which interns are more greatly utdized, which would cut back the hours in the proposal. Licht felt that as it appears the Commission does not wish to pay for excessive travel expenses, this would be a more realistic route to take than to rely on the heavy volunteer basis of the Eckhardt proposal. The Corn- Historic Preservation Commission Special Meeting July 25, 1995 Page 3 mission agreed that in fact they do not care for the idea of paying large travel expenses, as are parts of the Loukes and Thayer proposals, especially when there is already such a tight budget. Irelan questioned whether Naumann would have the time to get the work completed and felt Eckhardt may be in a better position to complete the work, and on time. Irelan suggested that both Eckhardt and Naumann be given a chance to submit a revised proposal. Pugh also questioned the justification of selecting the higher N~umann proposal. Licht stated again that she feels Eckhardt has less experience, that Eckhardt has underestimated the amount of time necessary to complete the job adequately. Russell added that he felt it would be inappropriate to ask Eckhardt to submit a revised proposal asking for more money and adding a paid assistant. Licht felt the only logical option was asking Naumann to submit a revised, lower proposal. MOTION: Pugh moved to authorize staff to contact and offer the contract to Molly Myers Naumann, with the condition that Naumann amend her bid to accept $12,800, instead of $16,800. If Naumann does not accept the condition staff is authorized to contact and offer the contract to Patricia Eckhardt, as submitted. Russell seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 4-0. COMMISSION INFORMATION/DISCUSSION: 1. Butler residence update. The Commission discussed the possibility of organizing a field trip to the Butler resi- dence. The Commission decided to wait until the September meeting to schedule the field trip,. when more Commission members are present. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 6:55 p.m. MINUTES IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 1995 - 5:30 P.M. LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM- CIVIC CENTER MEMBERS PRESENT: Kay Irelan, Betty Kelly, Sue Licht, Doug Russell, John Shaw MEMBERS ABSENT: Ginalie Swaim, Mike Pugh STAFF PRESENT: Kugler, Davidson, Haring OTHERS PRESENT: None CALL TO ORDER:' Chairperson Russell called the meeting to order at 5:42 p.m. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: There was none. DISCUSSION OF SUMMIT STREET BRIDGE REPLACEMENT: Russell noted receipt of the memorandum from Jeff Davidson, Transportation Planner, dated August 2, 1995. Davidson said he is not yet able to give the Commission definitive answers on most questions due to the need to achieve approval for plans from the Federal government and the time this process takes. Davidson wished to stress that all aspects of the project are still very flexible at this point. As the recent tendency in government is to leave more responsibility in the hands of local government, Davidson suggested that the Commission not be afraid to offer suggestions, no matter the perceived irapracticality. Davidson said he does know that the Railroad is requiring a 23-foot clearance above the track, despite a clearance of only 21 '8" on the Dodge Street bridge. Davidson said the reason for the difference is that the Railroad would like to attain a 23-foot clearance on the Dodge Street bridge, as well, when that bridge needs replacement. Davidson feels there may still be room for negotiation with the Railroad in regard to the required clearance. Davidson also wished to note that the previously stated September 15, 1995, design suggestion deadline is not definitive and the Commission may have more time. Shaw restated a position of the Commission stated in a previous meeting, that the Commission ~s very pleased with the completed product of the Evans Street bridge, but the Commission does not feel it is the jurisdiction of the Commission to suggest or develop design aspects. Shaw said the position of the Commission is adequately detailed through the sentiments expressed in the first paragraph of the Summit Street Preservation Plan. Shaw said the Commission feels that an Architect with a background in the style desired should be contacted to develop a design. Davidson said he is familiar with an individual with N.N.W. Consultants who may fit the bill and asked the Commission if he can contact this person. The Commission agreed that Davidson may contact N.N.W. Consultants. Historic Preservation Commission August 8, 1995 Page 2 In summary the Commission's recommendation included adhering to the policies of the historic preservation plan, making the new bridge as low and as narrow as possible, including input from the appropriate neighborhood groups, and involving the Commisison in the review of any streetscape improvements that may be proposed along Summit Street. CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS: 715 N. GILBERT STREET: Kugler said that the applicant is out of town and could not arrange for an alternate individual to act as a representative, so he will attempt to express the position of the applicant. Kugler distributed photographs of the structure and explained the modifications to be made. The project consists of two skylights to be installed, one on the south elevation of the front porch and one on the west elevation of the structure. No design elevations were submitted. Shaw wished to point out that the installation of these skylights does not alter the structural integrity and he personally does not feel the skylights will still be in place ten years from now. The Commission appeared to agree that the modification is more or Jess an accessory rather than an alteration. Kelly noted that the alteration will put the structure in a new decade, historically, but feels that the modification is a better option over enlarging the roof line to more windows. MOTION: Shaw moved to grant a Certificate of Appropriateness for 715 N. Gilbert Street, subject to the selection of framing and awning compatible with the shade of the roof shingles. Irelan seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 4-0. UPDATE ON CONSERVATION DISTRICT AND HISTORIC LANDMARK ORDINANCE: Russell said that he introduced these items to the City Council at the August 1, 1995, meeting. Russell said he and Paula Brandt, from Friends of Historic Preservation, spoke in favor of the Ordinance. No one spoke in objection. Russell said the Council Members had several questions, e.g., the meaning of "traditional" in the statement "traditional homes"; questions about notice were raised; there were questions about reports in the Conservation District Ordinance as it was desired that the standards for review of each potential district had undergone substantive work and provided the ability of amendment, etc., but overall things went very smoothly. Russell said after three considerations on the items, which will be held at the next three Council meetings the ordinance should be adopted. He expects a positive vote on the night of the third reading scheduled for September 12, 1995. Russell said the Council had asked about the possibility of making amendments to some of the language. Apparently, there is a line in the Conservation District Ordinance which reads, "built portions of which are at least 50 years old," that the Council felt was inadequate. Several other examples of questionable, language were read. It was stated to the Council that the Council is welcome to make amendments, but the Russell felt it would be ~nappropriate for the Commission to make amendments at this point. Historic Preservation Commission August 8, 1995 Page 3 Regarding the Landmark Ordinance, Russell said it was expressed by several Council members that this Ordinance is long overdue. Russell asked the Commission members to keep in mind sites of possible landmarks. DISCUSSION OF AMENDING THE COMMISSION'S BY-LAWS AND MEMBERSHIP RULES: Russell referred to the draft of an ordinance which increases the number of at-large Commission seats from 3 to 4. Kugler said he had suggested this change as an interim solution to the problems being discussed, at least until the State law is changed. Russell said a second change consists of an Ordinance amendment which, as a result of increasing the number of at-large seats from 3 to 4, would alter the make-up of the Commission slightly. Should the number of designated City historic districts exceed three, a new member shall be added to the Commission for each new district in excess of 3. The Commission agreed with this amendment, stating that it attempts to preserve the independent voice in the Commis- sion. It also helps ensure that there will be room on the Commission for some of the trained professionals needed to pass judgement on certain issues. A third change concerns vacancies on the Commission. Vacancies occurring in the Commission shall be filled by appointment of the City Council in accordance with the by-laws of the Commission. The Ordinance will be accompanied by a resolution amending the by-laws with regard to filling vacated, unexpired terms, as suggested by the Rules Committee. IVIOTION: Russell moved to adopt the' changes to Section 2, Nominations, of the By-Laws, and the Ordinance amending the Membership Rules of the Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission, as drafted. Kelly seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 4.0. DISCUSSION OF BUTLER RESIDENCE: Russell noted that a good article on the site, its history, and the recent attention focused upon it by the Commission, had been published in the Cedar Rapids Gazette. Kugler said as the Commission is making recommendations to Council regarding the residence, he feels it would be a good idea to set up a field trip to the site. Regarding protection of the site, Shaw felt that a fence would simply draw more attention to the site, not to mention liability issues. Shaw said the site has benefited to date from having a low profile. It was suggested simply posting private property signs in close vicinity of the site, which state that those trespassing are subject to a fine, etc., as this will carry sufficient weight to keep most out. The Commission asked Kugler to forward this suggestion on to Public Works. The Commission asked that as not all Commission members are present, that this item be placed on the September agenda. DISCUSSION OF ORDINANCE-TIGHTENING AMENDMENTS: This ~tem was deferred to the September 12, 1995, meeting of the Commission. Historic Preservation Commission August 8, 1995 Page 4 UPDATE ON NORTH DUBUQUE STREET/LINN STREET CORRIDOR SURVEY: , Kugler reminded the Commission that at the Special Meeting of July 25, 1995, the Commission had asked staff to contact Molly Myers Naumann, asking that she submit a revised proposal of $12,800, or less, or the contract would be offered to Patricia Eckhardt. A revised proposal was submitted by Naumann that falls just under the cap at $12,765. Kugler said the draft subcontract is already under review by the State and the City Attorney, and he hopes to meet the September 1, 1995, deadline of having an executed subcontract submitted to the State. Kugler said he intends to wait until the contract is signed by Naumann and the Mayor before notifying the other applicants. The Commission felt this was an appropriate measure. DISCUSSION OF UPDATED LIST OF IOWA CITY NATIONAL REGISTER PROPERTIES: Kugler noted that the Brown Street District and the Moffit Cottage District were inadvertently left off the list. Russell added that the Bohumil-Shimik house at 529 Brown Street, placed on the National Register in 1992, was also absent. The Sylvanus Johnson house at 2155 Prairie du Chien Road resides in the County and should be removed. Kugler said he is having a database prepared which can list the properties by address, name, date, etc., and he will have some revi~ed copies distributed to the Commission members. COMMISSION INFORMATION/DISCUSSION: Reminder of September 9 Annual Planning Session. The meeting will be held at 10:00 a.m. in the Lobby Conference Room of the Civic Center. Swaim is likely to be absent due to an illness in the family. Pugh may be late due another engagement. 2. Follow-up from Joint Meetings: a. Tax abatement issue. b. Historic Landmark plaque program. Main Street program. Pugh is to follow up with the Design Review Committee and City Staff, to determine whether Iowa City is eligible for Main Street funding. do Column in Friends' newsletter. Kugler said Friends of Historic Preservation have asked the Commission to make a regular contribution to their newsletter that is published approximately four times a year. The contributor's may rotate and the subject is open to the discretion of the contributor. Historic Preservation Commission August 8, 1995 Page 5 HRDP grant application for Colleoe Green and East College Street National Register nominations. Kugler said the Nomination Review Committee will be meeting this Thursday, July 27, in Des Moines, to rank the various grant proposal applications. The Commission should know by September or October the status of the College Green and East College Street proposals. Task Force on City Plaza. Due to the resignation of Shaw, Irelan has volunteered to take the place of Shaw on the Task Force on City Plaza. Plum Grove district update. Kelly said that as the Commission's representative to the Plum Grove advisory committee she would like to announce that Plum Grove will be constructing a historic garden, hopefully to be ready for viewing by next year. The presentation is to consist of historically accurate flora. The garden is to be approximately 50 x 25 feet in dimension. Handouts are to be produced which the Commission members will receive soon in their packets. Status of the National Historic Preservation Trust. Russell said he had received a note stating that the House of Representatives is threatening to cut funding for the Trust by up to 50%. Russell urged the Cpmmission to write their Congressman to oppose this cut. Longfellow Survey Progress Regor~. Molly Myers Naumann says in her letter dated August 3, 1995, that work is proceeding on schedule, and that a draft of the report is due on September 1, 1995, and will be submitted on time. Also submitted was a copy of suggested questions for the oral history interviews. Resionation of Commission Member, John Shaw. As Shaw will be moving out of the Summit Street district, it is the opinion of the City Attorney that he can no longer serve as representative of the district and must resign, effective upon the move. Shaw will be moving within the next month, so tonight is his last meeting. Chairperson Russell thanked Shaw, on behalf of the Commission and the City, for his commitment to the City and historic preservation efforts. Shaw was encouraged to consider applying for future vacancies in the Commission, as his skills and experience would be an asset. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 6:55 p.m.