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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1995-10-24 Bd Comm minutesMINUTES IOWA CITY AIRPORT COMMISSION THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 14, 1995 ~ 5=45 IOWA CITY TRANSIT FACILITY MEMBERS PRESENTs STAFF PRESENT= Pat Foster, Howard Horan, Rick Mascari, Dick Blum Anne Burnside, Jeff Davidson, Ron O'Neil CALL TO ORDERS Chairperson Horan called the meeting quorum of the Commission was present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: to order at 5:48 p.m. A The minutes of the August 10, 1995, meeting were approved as submitted. AUTHORIZATION OF EXPENDITURES= Mascari commented that there were several bills from an overhead door company. O'Neil said those were from the corporate hangar and shop leased by Iowa City Flying Service. He said there would be a substantial bill next month from AAA Mechanical. Last spring, someone managed to get into the locked boiler room and turn the boiler up to 240 degrees. This is probably what cracked the heat exchanger on the boiler and ruined the pump motor. The repairs will be around $ 2000. Blum made a motion to approve the bills. Mascari seconded the motion and it was approved 5 0. PUBLIC DISCUSSION - ITEMS NOT ON AGENDA= Jeff Davidson presented information concerning the trails system proposed for the Iowa River corridor. Davidson said he is a member of the Master Plan Resource Group and at a meeting last week, there were some concerns expressed about the bicycle trails. One of the trails is proposed to go through the Runway Obstacle Free Area for Runway 24. Davidson said he does not perceive there to be any problem. It is not a trail rs. Airport issue. Nothing will be done that could jeopardize FAA funding for the Airport° Davidson presented a lay out plan for the trails and a time frame for implementation for various sections. He said the City Council has indicated the trails are a priority item. Jerry Sear%e, from McClure Engineering, said he has asked the FAA about their opinion of having a trail through the Runway 24 Runway Protection Zone. If the proposed Airport Layout Plan is adopted, there will not be a problem. The runway end will be displaced and the area in question will no longer be in the Obstacle Free Area. Davidson said there is also an interest in a Willow Creek Trail. He asked that this be kept in mind as the plan for the area on the west side of the Airport is being developed. PUBLIC HEARING - UNITED STATES ARMY RESERVE: Horan opened the public hearing at 6:10 p.m. O'Neil said the information discussed by the Commission at the last meeting was incorporated into a lease form provided by the USAR. O'Neil said the CoI~mission would need to decide specific terms. The Cobhmission agreed that the lease should be for three years, with an option for an additional three years. This would be consistent with the land lease with the National Guard. Blum said that at some point in time, the Commission should get appraisals to determine what is fair market value for leased property. This will be needed if Public Works wants to move to the Airport or the commercial property at the north end of the Airport is developed. The hearing was closed at 6:23 p.m. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION]ACTION: ao Master Plan Study - Jerry Searle ~resented information on the Master Plan Study. He explained the concept plan that has been developed. It included not only options for meeting FAA airport design standards, but also provided a concept for off site land uses that would compliment the development of the Airport. As part of the study, a pavement condition survey was conducted. P~nway 17/35 was in the worst condition, probably requiring reconstruction within 5 to 10 years. If the FAA will only participate in supporting two runways, reconstruction would have to be with State and/or local funding. In meeting with the FAA last Tuesday, Searle said he was told by Jan Monroe, the airports' planning supervisor, that the first thing Iowa City must do is make a commitment to remove the obstructions affecting the Airport. Part of the Master Plan Study is to identify those obstructions. Searle said the FAA seemed to like the land use concept, including developing some of the Airport's property for commercial and industrial use. Searle said he has met with many of the landowners of the off site areas. Though there were a few minor changes requested, no one objected to the general concept of the plan. O'Neil said the land owners appreciated being invited to comment on the plan early in the process. He emphasized to the land owners that the decision to develop their property was entirely up to them. What the Commission' needed was a commitment that the land would not be developed in conflict with the plans proposed for the Airport. Searle said if the Commission approved the preliminary plan, the information would be presented to City staff on September 15, the Board of Supervisors on September 19 and to the City Council on September 25. He would like to see some consensus agreement between the Council and the Supervisors within the next four to six weeks. The Commission indicated approval of the plan. Mascari asked about the possibility of extending RW 24 to the east. Searle said it could be designed and built, but the cost/benefit ratio would show it would not be feasible. Blum said the costs of the easements and fee simple purchases could be quite high, based on some earlier appraisals. Searle said the FAA likes the idea of developing the area as an air industrial park. It could bring money and jobs into the community and could help the Airport towards it's goal of self sufficiency. O'Neil said the next update will be at the October 12th Commission meeting, and the next opportunity for the public to comment will be at a public meeting on October 19. ( At this point in the meeting, two members of~the Sertoma Club were introduced. They said they wanted to thank the Commission and the Airport Manager for their help and the opportunity to hold their annual fund raising breakfast at the Airport. They hoped the tradition would continue. ) b0 Iowa National Guard lease - Blum made a motion for a resolution for a three year lease with the Iowa National Guard for approximately one half acre of land to be used for vehicle storage. Foster seconded the motion and at roll call vote, the motion passed 4 - 0, with Hicks being absent. Oo Public Works site - O'Neil said there is renewed interest in moving the Public Works facility from it's present site. One option is to move to Airport property south of the Army Reserve Center. If the preliminary plan presented by McClure is adopted, this area could be the entrance to some commercial or industrial property. Horan said as long as Public Works is willing to pay fair market value on a long term lease, he thinks they should encourage Public Works to proceed with their plan. Blum said if the south area is to become an entrance to a larger development, the value may be more than the City is willing to pay to have it as a Public Works site. Burnside said she thought the City would like to move as soon as possible and market the property on the corner of Highway 6 and Riverside Drive. O'Neil asked the Commission for a consensus on what they wanted to do. The Commission agreed to work with Public Works to find a place on the.Airport, but stated that the site south of the Reserve Center might not be the best area. CHAIRPERSON'S REPORT: Horan said he wanted to thank Sertoma for all the work they did to make the fly in breakfast a success. COMMISSION MEMBERS' REPORTS~ Mascari said he has walked through the Airport Terminal with a contractor. Depending on how much money is spent, he thinks the building could be made much more attractive. He will try to get some budget numbers together for the Commission. ADMINISTR]%TIVE REPORT: O'Neil said the Master Plan Resource Group met There was good participation and Jerry Searle did explaining the conceptual plan he has developed. on September 7. an excellent job O'Neil is getting estimates for landscaping for the west side of the Airport Terminal. This will finish this phase of renovating the exterior of the building. There will be additional landscaping to be budgeted for and completed next year. There are several upcoming issues to be addressed by the Commission. O'Neil presented a list of the issues and a time frame. There are several leases to be reviewed and negotiated in the next six months. The FY 97 budget process will begin next month. This will be an agenda item in October. Mascari will work with O'Neil to develop a preliminary budget to be reviewed at the meeting° O'Neil said the Commission needs to focus on implementing the ADA requirements for the Airport Terminal° A list of required changes has been generated. SEATS is interested in leasing the United Hangar office space. Mascari, Burnside, and O'Neil are working on this project. A public hearing will be held on this lease at the October meeting. O'Neil said there are some trees at the end of some of the runways that will have to be trimmed or removed. They are not on Airport property. One tree is about 37' too high. Horan asked why this tree was allowed to grow to such an obstruction height. O'Neil said it was only at the most recent IDOT inspection in June that the trees were identified as needing to be removed. O'Neil will work with the City Forester to have the trees trimmed or removed. There is still a strong interest by some businesses to locate their corporate aircraft here if hangar space was available. O'Neil said he will ~ry to put together some budget information. The Commission will then need to go to the City Council to discuss funding. The hangar building built this summer is full and there is a waiting list for the hangars. O'Neil met with other City staff to discuss Sturgis Ferry Park. The City Manager and Council have an interest in cleaning the area up and making it look more like a park. Horan, Mascari and Foster will attend the Central Region AIP Conference in Kansas City on October 4. ~ET N~XT The next regular meeting was scheduled for October 12, 1995, at 5:45 p.m. AD~OURNMENT~ Blummoved to adjourn the meeting. Mascari seconded the motion and the meeting adjourned at 7:52 p.m. h a ran, Chairperson MINUTES IOWA CITY PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION THURSDAY, OCTOBER 5, 1995 - 7:30 PM CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS S,l ject to . ppr0vai MEMBERS PRESENT: Ann Bovbjerg, Sally Dierks, Dick Gibson, Tom Scott, George Starr, Lee Supple MEMBERS ABSENT: Jane Jakobsen STAFF PRESENT: Robert Miklo, Chades Denhey, Sarah Holecek, Jeff Hating RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: Recommend approval, by a vote of 6-0, of REZ95-0012, a request 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 Residential, to RM-12, Low Density Multi-Family Residential, subject to the provisions contained in the Condi,'ional Zoning Agreement, Recommend approval, by a vote of 6-0, amendments to the Weed Control Ordinance, City Code Section 6-3-3, as recommended in the October 5, 1995, m~,.-,torandum, subject to City Council approval of the Sensitive Areas Ordinance. Recommend approval, by a vote of 6-0, amendments to the Grading Ordinance, City Code Section 14-51, as recommended in the October 5, 1995, staff memorandum with certain revisions made by the Commission, subject to City Council approval of the Sensi- tive Areas Ordinance. Recommend approval, by a vote of 6-0, repeal of the River Corddor Overlay Zone, City Code Section 14-6J-1, subject to City Council approval of the Sensitive Areas Ordinance. CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Scott called the meeting to order at 7:45 p.m. PUBLIC DISCUSSION Of ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: There was none. REZONING ITEM: REZ95-0012. Public discussion of 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 Residential, to RM-12, Low Density Multi-Family Residential. Denney said the applicant had met last week with Commission members Tom Scott and Ann Bovbjerg and City staff to discuss the status of the subject rezoning. An agreement was reached at this meeting regarding a revision to the concept plan and conditions to be included in the Conditional Zoning Agreement. Denney said the applicant had submitted a revised concept plan and landscape plan. These documents address the concams raised by staff regarding the location of the entrance in relation to Highway 6, screening of the site due to its location at an entrance Planning & Zoning Commission October 5, 1995 Page 2 to the City and proximity to industrial uses across Highway 6, and the on-site circulation. The concept plan allows development of the site with carports as desired by the applicant. Denhey said the City Council continued its public hearing on this item to its October 10 meeting. At this meeting, the Council is also planning to give first consideration to the ordinance rezoning the property. Input from tonight's meeting will be forwarded to the Council prior to the closing of the public hearing on the matter. Denney said staff recommends approval of REZ95-0012, a request 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, subject to the provisions contained in the Conditional Zoning Agreement. Public discussion: There was none. Public discussion closed. In regard to the letter received from the Grant Wood Neighborhood Association, Starr asked whether there is anything in the rezoning or Conditional Zoning Agreement that would preclude an easement to the wetlands park. Denney said the City Engineer is currently examining the plan. Denney added there is nothing in the Conditional Zoning Agreement or site plan that would preclude such an easement. MOTION: Bovbjerg moved to approve REZ95-0012, a request 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 Residential, to RM-12, Low Density Multi°Family Residential, subject to the provisions contained in the Conditional Zoning Agreement. Gibson seconded. Bovbjerg commended the applicant and staff for coming up with a working document and concept plan. Scott wished to clarify that the Conditional Zoning Agreement includes a landscape plan for a vegetative buffer along Highway 6, and limitation of access to the site within 200 feet south of the intersection of Lakeside Drive and the Highway 6 frontage road. The plan includes submission of a concept plan for development of the site in conformance with the attached concept plan, which is intended to address the planning issues created by the specific characteristics of the propert,j. The motion carried on a vote of 6-0. REZ95-0013. Public discussion of an application submitted by Dave Ed Limited to rezone approximately 16.92 acres located south of Melrose Avenue, east of Highway 218 from RS-5, Low Density Single-Family Residential, to RS-8, Medium Density Single-Family Residential. (45-day limitation period waived to October 5, 1995.) Miklo said the applicant has requested a deferral of this item to the October 19, 1995, meeting. Miklo said the applicant has also indicated that the current rezoning application Planning & Zoning Commission October 5, 1995 Page 3 may be withdrawn entirely. The applicant may then submit a proposal for a subdivision consisting entirely of RS-5 density. Publlc discussion: There was none. Public discussion closed, MOTION: Dlerks moved to defer REZ95-0013, to the October 19, 1995, meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission. Gibson seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 6-0. TEXT AMENDMENT ITEMS: Public discussion of Sensitive Areas Ordinance Accompanying Amendments: Weed Control Ordinance, City Code Section 6-3-3. Miklo said the proposed amendment to the Weed Control Ordinance is intended to make this section of the City Code consistent with the proposed Sensitive Areas Ordinance that is now before the City Council. The ordinance would, in essence, allow areas within the designated stream corddoro to remain as natural areas, rather than being required to be mowed. Public discussion: There was none, Public discussion closed. MOTION: Starr moved to approve amendments to the Weed Control Ordinance, City Code Section 6-3-3, as recommended in the October 5, 1995, staff memorandum. BovbJerg seconded. Supple asked whether the motion should include the phrase "subject to City Council adoption of the Sensitive Areas Ordinance". Holecek said this is correct. MOTION: Starr moved to include a friendly amendment to the main motion that the amendments to the Weed Control Ordinance are subject to Council approval of the Sensitive Areas Ordinance. Bovbjerg seconded. Tl~e motion carried on a vote of 6-0. Gradin.cl Ordinance, Citv Code Section 14-51. Denney said the proposed amend- ments are intended to make the Grading Ordinance consistent with the proposed Sensitive Areas Ordinance that is now before the City Council. The amendments require a Grading and Erosion Control Plan be submitted for grading on slopes greater than 25%, or 4-to-1 slopes. This proposal would make the Grading Ordi- nance consistent with the steep slopes section of the Sensitive Areas Ordinance. Staff and the Sensitive Areas Committee recommend that the Grading Ordinance be kept separate from the Sensitive Areas Ordinance. This will allow the provi- sions of the Grading Ordinance that apply to existing development to remain in Planning & Zoning Commission October 5, 1995 Page 4 force, and to continue to apply to situations and properties that may not be cov- ered by the Sensitive Areas Ordinance, The requirements of the Grading Ordi- nance are included by reference in the Sensitive Areas Ordinance. Denney said Iowa City's Grading Ordinance requires a Grading and Erosion Control Plan for any grading in areas discussed, but engineered grading is not required until 5,000 cubic yards of grading is involved. This level was the highest of any ordinance reviewed. Other jurisdictions had a range of 100 to 500 cubic yards. Staff proposes that an engi- neered grading plan be required if grading involves 500 cubic yards or greater. Staff has estimated the area at which an engineered grading plan would be required as approxi. mately the area of a good-sized single-family home. Denney added that the specific measures for tree protection currently listed in the Grading Ordinance may not be appropriate in all situations and may limit the opportunities to use new and innovative techniques. In conjunction with the Sensitive Areas Ordinance, staff is developing guidelines that include current practices for tree protection. Staff recom- mends that these guidelines be referenced in the Grading Ordinance. Doing this will allow the most up-to-date tree protection measures to be incorporated into grading plans. Denney said the issue of when a Grading and Erosion Control Plan should be submitted and approved has also been questioned. Currently, the plan is required to be submitted with the preliminary plat. If the grading plans could be submitted following Planning and Zoning Commission review, but prior to City Council consideration of the preliminary plat, changes that occur during the review process could be accounted for in the Grading and Erosion Control Plan. Denhey said the Commission has received a letter from Ron Boose, Senior Building Inspector, that addresses these enfomement questions about the Grading Ordinance. At this time, staff does not recommend an ordinance amendment, but does recommend that a policy be implemented allowing the Grading and Erosion Control Plan to be submitted following Commission action on a preliminary plat proviaed the grading plan is approved prior to City Council consideration of the preliminary plat. Denney said some minor changes to the text were recommended at Monday nighrs informal meeting of the Commission and have been distributed tonight, Staff recommends that the proposed amendments to the Grading Ordinance be adopted, subject to City Council approval of the Sensitive Areas Ordinance. Scott asked whether the proposed Grading Ordinance would then apply under four conditions. Miklo said this is correct. Those conditions are the property contains 1) flood plains, 2) wetlands, 3) a stream or body of water, or 4) slopes of 25% or greater. Public discussion: There was none. Public discussion closed. MOTION: Bovbjerg moved to approve the amendments to the Gradlng Ordinance, City Code Section 14o51, subject to Council approval of the Sensitive Areas Ordi- nance. Supple seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 6-0. Planning & Zoning Commission October 5, 1995 Page 5 Repeal of the River Corddor Overlay Zone, Citv Code Section 14-6J-1. Miklo said the River Corddor Overlay Zone currently requires a 30-foot setback from the Iowa River. The proposed Sensitive Areas Ordinance requires a 50-foot setback from the Iowa River, and also contains a setback requirement for streams that varies depending on the size of the stream. Staff recommends that the current River Corridor Overlay Zone be repealed as the essence of it is contained within the proposed Sensitive Areas Ordinance. Public discussion: There was none. Public discussion closed. MOTION: Dlerks moved to app~'ove the repeal of the River Corridor Overlay Zone, City Code Section 14-6Jol, subject to Council approval of the Sensitive Areas Ordinance. Starr seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 6-0. CONSIDERATION OF THE SEPTEMBER 21, 1995 PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION MINUTES: Scott said he had some additional changes to propose, in addition to those made at Monday night's informal meeting. On page six, the last paragraph, third line, Scott said he would like the sentence to read, "...affordability of developing i_n a sensitive area." Page seven, first paragraph, last line, Scott said should read, "...much in the way of woodlands or steep slopes," rather than wooded, steep slopes. In paragraph two, line three, the sentence in the middle of the paragraph presently reads, "Scott said he had stated before that he believes the implementation of additional regulations usually translates into the necessity of additional staffing." Scott said he has stated the opposite on a number of occasions and would like this statement amended to read in the negative of that written. Scott said to stdke the "however" at the end of the sentence and change it to "and." Paragraph four, line two, beginning with the first full sentence, says, "Scott said a draft copy of the ordinance was sent to individuals or groups during the public debate process." Scott said this should read, "Scott said a draft copy of the ordinance was sent to 3~8 individuals or groups during the public debate process." In the last paragraph, line three, Scott asked that this be changed to, "The committee has completed its task, and has completed it admirably." MOTION: Gibson moved to approve the minutes of the September 21, 1995, meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission, as amended at Monday rJght's and tonlght's meetings. Supple seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 6-0. PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION INFORMATION: There was none. OTHER BUSINESS: Miklo noted that the Council will be discussing the Fringe Area Agreement at its informal meeting on Monday night. The Mayor had sent a letter to the Board of Supervisors asking for their comments on the agreement. No reply from the Board has been received, but the Council will go ahead and discuss the current status of the agreement in terms of recent zoning decisions Planning & Zoning Commission October 5, lg95 Page 6 made by the County. Scott said he will attend the Monday night meeting to hear the discussion of the Fringe Area Agreement. Dierks said she attended the North Corridor meeting at the Public Library on Tuesday night. She said, if anything, it was interesting to see how the County functions. The meeting will be re- broadcast on the Library channel. Bovbjerg urged everyone to vote tn the primary on Tuesday. Bovbjerg said a re-broadcast of the First National Bank candidate forum is being aired on Channel 4. Scott wished to clear the air in regard to a reference in the Iowa City Home Builder's Association letter about a comment made in the minutes of the Commission, that the Home Builder's Associa- tion always criticizes proposed ordinances, Scott read page four, paragraph three, of the July 25, 1995, minutes of the Planning and Zoning Commission where this reference is found. These say, "Scott said comment number three In the Home Bullder's Association letter says the Sensitive Areas Ordinance is too long and difficult to read." Scott went on to say, "The Home Builders Association letter is always a criticism of every proposed ordinance, and he thinks this ordinance is neither lengthy nor unreadable. Scott said that it is a red herring to say that every ordinance is too long and complicated. Mlklo noted that this ordinance is an attempt at a compromise between environmental protection and development concern." Scott said his comments were certainly not directed at the Iowa City Home Builder's Association, rather that his objection was to the criticism that ordinances are too lengthy or too complicated, as this is what is heard all the time. ADJOURNMENT: MOTION: Gibson moved to adjourn at 8:13 p.m. Bovbjerg seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 6-0. Sally DieAs, Secretary Minutes submitted by Jeff Haring. ppdadmin~mms~o&zl 0-5.rain MINUTES IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 1995 - 5:30 PM CIVIC CENTER LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: Kay Irelan, Betty Kelly, Sue Licht, Douglas Russell, Ginalie Swaim MEMBERS ABSENT: Michael Pugh STAFF PRESENT: Scott Kugler OTHERS PRESENT: Steve van der Woude CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Russell called the meeting to order at 5:32 pro, PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: There was none. CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS - 519 BROWN STREET: Russell noted that this item had been considered at the September 12 meeting, at which time a certificate of appropriateness was approved for alterations to the roof line, but action on the porch addition was deferred. Russell asked the applicant if he would like to offer any comments about the porch addition. Steve van der Woude, 730 N. Van Buren Street, referred to some photographs of porches on other houses of similar design as models that he was trying to emulate. He said the intent of adding the porch was to de-emphasize the 1960s addition that was put on the front of the house where the original porch used to exist. He stated that rental code requirements must also be considered when looking at the size of the porch. He feels that one of the most important features of the Brown Street Historic District is the prevalence of front porches, and he wants this building to contribute. He noted that many of the porches along Brown Street are not original to the houses, but were added on at a later time and remain as symbols of historic growth patterns of the houses. In most cases, these were full length porches that allowed people to sit out on their front porch and say hello to their neighbors. He said he sees this porch as a continuation of those "growth spurts" that occurred on old homes over time. He stated that he realized that he was putting a porch where there never was a porch before. Kelly asked about the possibility of removing the 1960s addition and rebuilding the porch as shown in the historic photograph of the house. van der Woude stated that economically that is not feasible. There is no other way to get a stairway up to the upstairs apartment and meet code. He stated that he would like to achieve a compromise where the full length porch is permitted, but the design altered so that it fits better on the house. He said he was open to suggestions. Historic Preservation Commission September 19, 1995 Page 2 Licht said that she drove through much of the Northside looking specifically at the porches, and noted that many times the front porches were not of the same vintage as the house. One of the things that disturbed the Commission at the last meeting was the proportion of the porch in relation to the rest of the house. She referred to a sketch drawn by Irelan which she felt improved the design by making the roof line, where it intersects with the building wall, wider, and by adding some bulk to the posts. One thing she noticed in looking at other porches is that she didn't see many other porches that terminated so far inside the corners of the house. The soffit or eaves usually come out to at least the corner boards. Irelan stated that she noticed the same thing as she looked at surrounding porches. Licht felt that the proposed porch looked too light-weight for this house, especially the posts. van der Woude asked for clarification on the width of the porch. He asked whether the posts should line up with the corner boards. Licht noted that generally, in looking at the photos that staff took of other porches, the soffit or gutter was lined up with the inside of the corner boards, then there was an overhang of a foot or so, and then the structure of the porch. She said that there was some variation but that this seems to be most common. She used a photograph of the house at 1307 Rochester Avenue as a good example. Russell asked about the dimension of the columns. Licht noted that the square or spindle design doesn't really matter, but that the columns needed to roe wider than shown on the plans. van der Woude asked whether copying the back porch, which is still intact, would be acceptable. Licht noted that the back porch was smaller. Perhaps the same proportions could be used but just blown up a little for the front porch. She suggested using some of the same detailing, but giving it a little more mass. van der Woude noted that he hoped to use salvaged materials for the posts, but that there may not be anything available. He would be limited to what is on the market as far as column width and design. Russell said that too small or narrow columns are a concern. Russell noted that at the September 12 meeting, there was a suggestion that a pediment be included on the east end of the porch over the entry. He asked whether the Commission felt that was necessary or whether the roof as shown would be adequate. van der Woude said that he liked that style porch but that he didn't think it belonged on this house. He felt it would draw your eye more toward the area of the 1960s addition, which he is trying to de- emphasize. Kugler noted that the Secretary of the Interior's standards would discourage this because it would be adding an architectural feature to the porch that never existed. The original porch had a simple hipped roof similar to that proposed. Licht said that she felt that the gable or pediment in this location would not fit with the altered roof line which was approved at the last meeting. The Commission agreed that the hipped roof was more appropriate. Russell again brought up the issue of the column width. Licht felt that the columns should be at least 5 or 6 inches at the foot and the base. Whether they are square or turned posts does not matter as much as whether they are scaled appropriately. Historic Preservation Commission September 19, 1995 Page 3 Licht drew a sketch to illustrate some of the items that the Commission discussed. She said it is not important to try to replicate a certain porch, but rather to get a porch that looks appropriate for the house. MOTION: Russell moved to grant a certificate of appropriateness to allow the addition of a front porch at 519 Brown Street, subject to the following conditions: 1} the porch should have a width, symmetry, and scale similar to that shown on the sketch provided by Irelan; 2) the porch posts shall have a minimum dimension of 4~ inches; and 3) the spindles and mils should match those on the existing back porch. Kelly seconded. The motion carried by a vote of 5-0. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 6:05 pm. MINUTES IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES SPECIAL MEETING ~4EETING ROOM A TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 1995 - 5:00 PM Members Present: Margaret Cox, Stephen Greenleaf, Philip Eubbard, Mary McMurray, Mark Martin, Jesse Singerman, Anne Spencer, Jim Swaim, Chuck Traw Staff Present: Barb Black, Maeve Clark, Susan Craig, Larry Eckholt, Debb Green, Martha Lubaroff, Laura Morton, Liz Nichols Others Present: Beverly Ogren, Assistant City Attorney, Geraldo Samor, Iowa City Press Citizen CALL TO ORDER: President Traw called the meeting to order at 5:05 pm Traw summarized the last meeting. September 7 meeting having cor~nitted expansion. The Board adjourned the to making a choice regarding He asked for discussion and comments. Singerman stated her belief that it was important for the library to remain downtown. The branch concept did not seem a sensible option at this time although it could be a choice in the future. She was in favor of exploring the building to the west. Singerman then proposed a motion that the Board proceed with expansion plans to the west taking appropriate steps to achieve that goal. Seconded by Greenleaf. Greenleaf stated that of the options he believed the best one was to enter into serious negotiations with the owners of the property to the west to determine if an offer could be made. He believes this option is cost effective, meets our physical needs and would be much less disruptive to library service during the time of expansion and renovation. It would serve to enhance the downtown area as a whole as well as improving the library. Although there would be some disruption, in the long run commercially, downtown Iowa City would benefit. He commented that he sensed reception by some owners of the property and a willingness to hear more. Discussion continued. Hubbard reported a remark made to him by a community member who felt that a branch was needed. Spencer responded with a statement of her view that the libraries in smaller towns around Iowa City are getting stronger and larger and seem to act as a branch library for many people in Johnson County. She feels that this replaces a need for an Iowa City branch library because reciprocity agreements allow Iowa City residents to use any library in the county, and vice versa. Craig commented that the ICPL BOARD OF TRUSTEES SEPTEMBER 19, 1995 PAGE 2 trade off is that ICPL serves as a strong reference center which fills a need that smaller libraries have. Swaim stated that it would be important to convey to the public the seriousness with which we have considered a branch library. He bellyes in five to ten years we might explore the option of a branch library, but the space needs at the downtown building must be addressed first. Cox expressed concern about the cost of the proposal. Will the community be willing to support a project this expensive? It was pointed out that, although a branch could attract new users, there would be m~ny people who would use a branch and also use the central facility. Pressures on the downtown building would not be alleviated. Traw reminded the board that even if we filled in all the space available on the second floor, we would still be short of space that was needed in 1990. Swaim pointed out that in the future, there could be possibilities for a branch in some existing site that would not have the financial impact that a new branch building would have. Spencer stated that choosing to go west did not rule out the option of expansion vertically. We could always come back to that plan. Martin stated that there is a need to come to some conclusion and make a decision. The people of Iowa City will ultimately make the decision as to what they want. Martin believes in the efforts that the Board has put into this process over the last few years. His preference is to expand west. Traw called for a vote. The motion passed unanimously. Greenleaf moved that the Board go into Executive session for the purpose of discussing the possible purchase of real estate. All signified approval in a roll call vote by stating Aye and the Board adjourned to the Conference Room for this purpose at 5:30 pm. Minutes taken and prepared by Martha Lubaroff. MINUTES IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES REGULAR MEETING 2ND FLOOR ADMINISTRATIVE CONFERENCE ROOM THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 1995 5:00 PM Members Present: Margaret Cox, Stephen Greenleaf, Philip Hubbard, Mary McMurray, Mark Martin, Jesse Singerman, Anne Spencer Members Absent: Chuck Traw, Jim Swaim Staff Present: Barb Black, Maeve Clark, Susan Craig, Larry Eckholt, Debb Green, Martha Lubaroff, Liz Nichols CAJuL TO ORDER: Vice President Spencer called the meeting to order at 5:05 pm APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Regular meeting of August 24, 1995. Greenleaf/Hubbard S~ecial meeting of September 7, 1995. Greenleaf/Cox Special meeting of September 19, 1995. Approved as amended. Singerman/Cox Amendment for special meeting of September 19. Executive session was adjourned. Regular meeting was reconvened. President Traw reported that a discussion was held regarding the feasibility of purchasing the adjoining property. No action was taken at the time. All in favor of approving the minutes with the correction. UNFINISHED BUSINESS University Heights contract. In response to Craig's proposal of exploring a joint contract with University Heights, Coralville Public Library's Director Heidi Lauritzen invited Craig and board members to attend the next Coralville Public Library board meeting on November 1 at 6:00 pm. Spencer will attend with Craig. NEW BUSINESS A. Initial discussion of FY97 budget proposal Craig reviewed the budget process that began with managers preliminary preparation before Labor Day. Preparation of a budget for FY97 when PY95 has just been completed and FY96 has just begun is difficult. Planning FY96 for projects has just begun and there is some uncertainty regarding outcomes which makes it difficult to plan. Craig does not get city guidelines until late in the month of September, so this initial discussion does not include that information. The goal for the presentations tonight is to gather information, and have the Board recommend priorities. ICPL BOARD OF TRUSTEES SEPTEMBER 28, 1995 PAGE 2 Coordinators then made brief presentations highlighting the activities of their departments and any specific budget proposals. Nichols, Assistant Director and Circulation Coordinator, highlighted changes in the Circulation Department brought on by new technolo95,. Several improved services were introduced during the past year, most recently the implementation of patron placed holds and the ability for patrons to have access to information about their accounts through the catalog. Nichols stressed the continued need for a Circulation Coordinator. This position has been requested and denied in two previous years. Craig pointed out that the last position funded from operating fund tax dollars was in 1991; positions added in 1993 were funded by the library levy. Singerman asked about the half time librarian position that had been requested last year. Craig explained that with the recent reclassification of a library clerk to library assistant in the Technical Services Department, and the reorganization of workloads due to the implementation of a new acquisitions software program, we were able to relieve the systeras librarian from cataloging duties and would not resubmit that request. Nichols then spoke about library systems: Interoperability has come to the library with linkage of the many systems. Internet access for the public is being planned for the first part of the year. Nichols spoke about her responsibility for the collection development of a multimedia material. Her requests for funding were for the hardware and software to support these projects. Nichols also is requesting an increase in the computer replacement fund. The GEAC system, which is the library's main computer system, will have to be replaced no later than FY98. Wiring is also out of date and, hopefully, can be upgraded as part of the building renovation. Clark, Inforrm%tion Services Coordinator, reviewed the strategic plan goals which call for the maintenance of an excellent reference collection for young adults and adults. Information Services is adding to electronic sources available on Refnet. They will be adding a full text periodical database this year. With direct access to Internet more information is available and the staff is enthusiastic. Clark is requesting continued funding for FirstSearch. This program was initially brought to us by the State Library of Iowa. It is a service which comes from OCLC and provides databases that enhance reference service. Debb Green, Children's Services Coordinator, reported that Childrens Services is an active participant in many library-wide strategic plan initiatives. Their budget requests support the need for an increase in the hourly pay budget and additional hours; in particular for the Summer Reading Program. Budget requests that ICPL BOARD OF TRUSTEES SEPTEMBER 28, 1995 PAGE 3 involve collection maintenance and cable production will support needs of the Childrens Service. Speaking for absent Technical Services Coordinator, Laura Morton, Nichols described a project to receive cataloging records from the OnLine Computer Library Center (OCLC), the world's largest database provider. This was a mich higher ticket item in the past and wasn't brought to the board prior to this due to the price With Internet access available it is now affordable and would be very cost effective. Technical Services has organized, automated and streamlined procedures. They have begun working with the new acquisitions software, and are adding authority records and cross references to the Compass database. Her request supports the OCLC database purchase in order to bring more records into our local Compass database. Collection maintenance is a high priority and Morton is asking for an increase in the processing supply budget. Nichols stated that Morton has done a great job in a very short space of time. Development Office. Larry Eckholt reported that the Welcome Window was just mailed to residents of the county. Postage costs have caused this popular project's expenses to iucrease and alternative distribution methods are being looked into. The other major project the Development Office does with funding from the operating budget is volunteer recognition. Barb Black, Community & Audio Visual Services Coordinator, reported that the strategic plan calls for an increase in video production to achieve several goals. Black is asking for a quarter time increase to the LibraryAssistant II position. This is a repeat of what was asked for last year. The increase in this production assistant's time will enable him to assist with projects in the strategic plan, support growing use of the library meeting rooms and make up for the support lost when public access tv staff is no longer available. Black also is requesting funding for equipment and programming that will enhance the quality of Ch10. She feels that the library's channel is not keeping up with other public access stations. Craig spoke for the request to increase the payscale for hourly/temporary staff. She described the increased workload on the office with the hiring and departure of library aides due to the low starting wage. Last year we proposed raising it by 10% and compromised at 5%. we need to adjust that scale again, which is being planned for City-wide, and also add 18 hours a week of hourly staff. Adding Sundays. In response to the Board's interest last spring, Craig described several different alternatives incorporating more ICPL BOARD OF TRUSTEES SEPTEMBER 28, 1995 PAGE 4 Sundays. Discussion was carried on regarding overtime, who is covered, how often do staff have to work on Sunday. There was some consensus for opening from September 1 to June 15 including the three Sundays of Easter, Memorial and Labor Day weekends which would add five Sundays. Craig spoke about an increase to the materials budget. She reminded the Board that the number one priority of the strategic plan is library collections and that strategies call for increasing availability of materials users want, maintaining excellent reference and childrens collections and improving collections for adults and young adults. Facility Expansion and Renovation. Although we don't know exactly where we will be by FY97, funds will be needed to develop alternatives, in case a referendum fails, or proceed with the project. Craig asked for some direction from the Board regarding the presentation of the budget. Board members expressed comfort with a proposed increase in the budget. Martin advocated presenting an accurate picture of what the budget needs are. Craig will proceed with this budget adding Sundays as discussed and using City figures just received. A 5 pm meeting was scheduled for October 12 to review the budget once more before it is submitted to the City. B. Appointments to Art Advisory Committee Greenleaf moved to approve Linda Dyer's request for the appointment of Ronald McClennlen and Linzee McCray to replace two members of the Library Art Advisory Committee who have resigned. Martin seconded and the motion was approved unanimously. STAFF REPORTS A. Intellectual Freedom Festival Report Black reported that a successful inaugural festival was held this past weekend. Almost 80 people attended the brunch in recognition of Carol Spaziani. Seventy people attended the Intellectual Freedom lecture. A panel discussion on "Censorship in Cyberspace" was held on Tuesday evening. People phoned in questions and one question came via the Internet. Activities during the week included showing films that had been challenged on the Library Channel, and Childrens Librarian Debb Green made a presentation to staff on materials for children that have been challenged. B. Iowans Can't Wait Committee Craig is serving on a statewide task force that is identify new funding sources for public libraries. attempting to The task force ICPL BOARD OF TRUSTEES SEPTEMBER 28, 1995 PAGE 5 is composed of librarians, trustees, state staff and legislators. C. Staff reclassification approved by City This was talked about in the budget presentations regarding the Technical Services Department. D. Development Office report Eckholt's report was included in the packet. The Foundation meets on October 26 at which time the consultant hired to recommend a fundraising plan for the capital improvements project will make a presentation. E. Carpet & brick repair projects completed Craig reported that the outside brick work was repaired in August. Carpet has recently been mended in places that were the most worn. Carpet remnants that had been stored were used and the only cost was for labor. Fe Craig included an article on librarianship for the trustees to read. Also included in the packet was a letter from Sharman Smith, State Librarian, regarding our response to a survey indicating an interest in participating in the Iowa Community Network (ICN) by planning for the development of an ICN meeting room. COMMITTEE REPORTS A. Facilities Planning Report Greenleaf reported on a meeting with City Manager Arkins, Craig, Martin and himself. Atkins's recommendation was to inform the City Council regarding the Board's policy decision and proceed with making an offer for the Lenoch & Cilek property. He also recommended bringing the public into the process and meeting with groups such as the Chamber or Downtown Association. Greenleaf made a motion that the Board authorize the President and the Facilities Planning Committee to contact owners of the adjoining property and offer them a price for the property commensurate with the price of the appraisal; and that the President Traw write a letter to City Council bringing them up to date on the Board's policy decision and the offer that will be made. Greenleaf/Martin. The motion was passed unanimously. DISBURSEMENTS There was a question regarding the $19,000 expense for Turner periodicals. It was explained that this is a yearly expense for ICPL BOARD OF TRUSTEES SEPTEMBER 28, 1995 PAGE 6 the library's magazine subscriptions. Disbursements were approved unanimously after a motion by Singerman/McMurray. SET AGENDA ORDER FOR OCTOBER MEETING Special-meeting in October set Look at final budget. Report on Facilities. for 5:00 pm, October 12, 1995. ADJOURNMENT: A motion was made to adjourn at 7:40 pm by Greenleaf/Cox. approved unanimously. Minutes taken and prepared by Martha Lubaroff. It was MINUTES SPECIAL MEETING ON THE SENSITIVE AREAS ORDINANCE RIVERFRONT AND NATURAL AREAS COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 30, 1995 - 7:30 P.M. CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS MEMBERS PRESENT: Sue Chase, Cortne~/Daniels, Nancy English, Richard Hoppin, Les Kuehl, Jessica Neary, Jim Pugh, Larry Wilson MEMBERS ABSENT: Don Otto, John Pelton, Catherine Pugh STAFF PRESENT: Denney, Miklo, Rockwell, Haring OTHERS PRESENT: Vince Neary, Harvey Wehde, Bruce Glasgow, Nancy Seiberling CALL TO ORDER, INTRODUCTIONS, AND ANNOUNCEMENTS: After moving the meeting from the Lobby Conference Room to the Council Chambers to provide more space, Chairperson Kuehl called the meeting to order at 7:38 p.m. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: Regarding the riverbank cleanup day which was scheduled for August 27, 1995, J. Pugh said apparently there was some miscommunication and the fraternity members had already been scheduled to attend a consciousness-raising seminar. J. Pugh said he will attempt to reschedule a cleanup day, with or without fraternity assistance, for another date. CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES FROM THE JULY 19 AND AUGUST 16, 1995, MEETINGS: MOTION: J. Neary moved to defer consideration of the minutes from the July 19 and August 16, 1995, meetings to the next regular meeting of the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission. J. Pugh seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0. DISCUSSION OF THE PROPOSED SENSITIVE AREAS ORDINANCE: Kuehl said he would like to base the proceedings of tonight's meeting on comments raised at the August 21, 1995, joint meeting of the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission and the Planning and Zoning Commission. Kuehl also recognized receipt of a letter from the Iowa City Homebuilder's Association, dated July 24, 1995, included in the member packets. Kuehl said the first speaker at the August 21 meeting, Chris Randall of Shamrock Dr~ve, was concerned about flooding and the apparent inadequacy of the 15-foot buffer zone for stream corridors. J. Pugh said he can sympathize with this concern and related an instance of the City of Iowa City installing a box culvert under a road located near his home. J. Pugh said the culvert, and some straightening of the creek which would run through the culvert, was intended to alleviate some of the backlog of storm water on one side of the road. However, the creek has since made its own route, missing the culvert altogether and exacerbating the flooding situation in the area. J. Pugh said due to instances like this, adequate buffer zones 3133 Riverfront & Natural Areas Commission August 30, 1995 Page 2 are terribly important, to provide room for the natural occurrences of a creek, to provide ample room should a problem downstream create a backlog, or to construct a man-made remedy lagoon should there be a need. Denney clarified that three levels of buffer zone do exist, and explained the definitions and difference between a floodway and a floodplain. J. Pugh said his point, however, was that the culvert, a man-made item, did not work and flooding occurred outside of both the floodway and floodplain as a result of the poor engineering. Wilson said he is receiving e-mail in support of a wider buffer, which he can sympathize with, but he recognized the buffer zones established were created in a spirit of cooperation and compromise. Wilson felt a buffer that is the width of the floodplain is asking too much. He said the Floodplain Ordinance may be a better place to deal with these issues. He felt there should be a caveat in the ordinance, however, to include up to the top of the bank in the buffer area. Vince Nearv, North Linn Street, a recent graduate.in hydraulic engineering from the University of Iowa, said he disagrees with Wilson. He felt the buffer zone does need to be roughly as large as the floodplain, He thought the floodplain should be considered a common public resource. Issues V. Neary would like to see addressed include: = Concerning Page 1, Section B.1 .a., Sensitive Areas Overlay Zone, V. Neary said he recommends that the 100-year floodplain be listed as a sensitive area, 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 concern of duplication. Neary said it is his opinion that the 100-year floodplain is not a significant amount of area. V. Neary stated that there is a good deal of literature based on scientific study, which backs up his opinion that the 100-year floodplain should be listed as a sensitive area. V. Neary related a 1970s study performed jointly by two professors from the University of Iowa, one from Economics, and tl',~ other from Hydraulics. In their examination of the impact of urbanization on flooding, it was concluded, "that a straightforward approach to new housing development would include floodplain management regulations that would restrict floodplain use, or floodplain acquisition for appropriate public use, such as parks or open space." V. Neary wished to point out that this is a study by two individuals who are keenly aware of both the hydraulic and the economic impacts of stream corridors. Page 10, Condition 1 .A., regarding natural buffers for a wetland, states, "this could be reduced by up to 50 feet if the wetland is less than five acres in area." V. Neary said he 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, landscape and use that is critical. Smaller wetlands may require as much, if not more protection, because they have less capacity to absorb pollutants carried by runoff. Regarding the Wetland Mitigation section on Page 12, V. Neary does not support compensatory mitigation for wetlands, and recommended that this section be removed from the ordinance. Studies show that reconstructed wetlands rarely resemble natural Riverfront & Natural Areas Commission August 30, 1995 Page 3 wetlands that have been destroyed; approximately 50% fail. Assurances that they are constructed properly requires years of costly monitoring. Studies have shown these measures are not usually followed through on, and the costs are not borne by the developer. Denney assured that the ordinance requires the costs of compensatory mitigation to be borne by the developer. He also stated that wetland mitigation is considered a last resort. 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:." V. Neary asked that this be changed to say, "...the City will consider the following:." For Page 15, Section 4.A., under Stream Corridor Buffer Requirements, V. Neary asked that a rational, scientific basis be used in determining the buffer requirements. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (F'WS) recommends a buffer width that is two to five times the width of the stream channel, or a minimum of 50 feet, based on F-~VS studies of wildlife needs. V. Neary said it is his understanding that the figures the City is utilizing 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:." The conditions listed for reducing stream corridor buffer requirements are unclear and V. Nearv 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 landscaping in which lawn chemicals are used. If reductions in buffer requirements are to be allowed. then the terms, "significant vegetative cover and enhanced vegetative cover" should either be defined in the Definitions Section of the ordinance, or referred to in an existing City manual. J. Pugh agreed that more references be used to clarify where the basis for some of the figures used had originated, and that the figures used be backed up by scientific study. This could be achieved, perhaps, with the use of footnotes where the reader can be referred to an explanation at the end of the ordinance. Regarding the second suggestion and the size of a wetland, Denney said these figures were based on what other jurisdictions have done. J, Pugh and Chase questioned the term "prairie remnant" and felt that there is a good deal of sensitive land under the size of an acre that would fall into the category of a remnant that should not be treated lightly. Denhey explained that it was the Committee's decision to preserve those tracts of land located within the floodplain and buffer areas which are deemed worthy of preservation. J. Neary and J. Pugh felt that the text does not clearly represent what the Committee had meant by the reference to prairie remnant. They said this could be better explained to reduce confusion. J. Neary, J. Pugh and Chase also questioned the reference to "will be approved Riverfront & Natural Areas Commission August 30, 1995 Page 4 by City staff." Denney said staff has begun to develop the lists of appropriate vegetation. Miklo clarified that there is no set list for every event. Rather, each location is distinct and the appropriate materials will be determined on a case-by-case basis, through site plan review or during consideration of a development application by the Planning and Zoning Commission and the City Council. He said it was a real concern of the Committee not to go into great detail on specific materials as this would be determined on a case-by-case basis. Miklo said staff will be assisted in making determinations from several resources, including the Environmental Technical Advisory Committee (ETAC), the City Forester, etc. Miklo emphasized that as it stands now, there are no guidelines or measures to protect these environmentally sensitive areas. In response to a question from Chase, Miklo stated the names and positions of the members of the ETAC. Chase asked if all those referred to, who would have a hand in making a determination, hold a regular position in the public sector. English suggested adding a glossary of appropriate vegetation, perhaps, to the bottom of page three. Wilson and Daniels suggested that a strategy, or assurance statement, be included up front that would assure that appropriate expertise will be utilized in determining the vegetation for a buffer zone. This may alleviate many questions down the road. Wilson said this may even be an accompaniment and not necessarily within the ordinance. V. Neary displayed a photograph of a homeowner located along Ralston Creek who is losing a good deal of his back yard to the creek. V. Neary said it will cost this homeowner a good deal to shore up this problem and said development would not have been approved this close to the creek had the ordinance been in place. V. Neary complimented the City and the Committee on their efforts to date and said he feels the ordinance is much more reasonable and easier to read than previous ordinance attempts. Wilson wished to clarify statements made earlier regarding floodplains. He said there may be a lot of compatible uses within a floodplain, such as parks and ball fields, and he does not feel the land should necessarily lay dormant. Wilson felt the Floodplain Ordinance should be updated to accommodate a greater variety of these types of uses, V. Neary agreed that in many instances these types of uses may be compatible within the floodplain and agreed that the Floodplain Ordinance could use some updating. Denney said this is already in the works, that the Committee also felt some uses are compatible within a floodplain. Harvey Wehde, owner of Iowa City Insulation and several tracts of land throughout the City, displayed a stack of information at his feet representing the effort and cost put ~nto the Woodlands Preservation Ordinance. Wehde said the City staff and Council have lost touch with reality and the desires of the community. Wehde said he does not know how much these efforts have cost the taxpayer to date, but 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 ordinance, the cost of housing will increase and more people wdl be leaving Iowa City and moving beyond the two-mile limit. Wehde pointed to Bruce Glasgow and stated that Glasgow has not sold one residential lot within the last year. Wehde said Iowa City is over-regulated to the point that nobody knows what is going on within their own system. He said 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 Riverfront & Natural Areas Commission August 30, 1995 Page 5 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 development projects 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, the owner of a company and feels he has made good decisions in order to be successful. He said the City must learn to stop bucking 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. Wehde stated Iowa City is out of touch with the market-place. He said 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, and move into the 21 st century with common sense government, not fiscal irresponsibility. Wehde said Iowa City is creating the north corridor crisis as it is chasing everyone out due to the expense and problems associated with building in Iowa City. Wehde said the City is already facing money shortages and cannot maintain its current responsibilities. Wehde said one question in a Chamber of Commerce survey, in which 200 surveys have been returned to date, asks, "How would you grade Iowa City staff and City Council on its performance," with a 5 equaling "an 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 an impediment or somewhat of an impediment to growth and development in Iowa City. In closing, Wehde asked that the final vote on the'ordinance be postponed until the City Council election is over, or that the ordinance be dropped altogether, now. J. Pugh asked whether Wehde's objection is with this particular ordinance, or bureaucracy in general. Wehde said bureaucracy in general. Wehde referred to an example where the Governor of Florida had thrown out all regulating documents and started over from ground zero. Bruce Glasqow 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 he has done business in Iowa City since 1954, the first property of which had three trees and is now all trees. Glasgow said he plants hundreds of trees every year. He said Iowa City is full of environmental activists, but few active environmentalists, and threw the City of Iowa City into the environmental activists category. He said Iowa City is becoming a bedroom community to Coralville. Glasgow referred to the City of Minneapolis and the need to cut back mowing ahd maintenance by 10%, due to the lack of funds. Glasgow felt that Iowa City is headed in this direction, and will need at least two additional full-time staff in order to coordinate and implement the ordinance. Glasgow said he tried building on a lot using the regulations of the Woodl~.nds Ordinance. Glasgow said he had 71 trees on a lOS-foot by 1 5e-foot lot. In order to make the lot buildable under the Woodlands Ordinance, he would have ended up with 17 Riverfront & Natural Areas Commission August 30, 1995 Page 6 trees. Denney pointed out that single-family residences would be exempt under the Sensitive Areas Ordinance. Nancy Seiberlinq related a University of Chicago study which had determined that the presence of trees had not only improved the air quality, but had provided a significant savings in electricity due to the shade that can be provided in the summer. Seiberling said trees greatly improve the quality of life. She said she appreciated the efforts made to protect sensitive areas. I(uehl said at the August 21 meeting, Larry Schnittjer felt an 18% slope, even a 24% slope, is not very steep. Schnittjer felt the slope should be greater before the ordinance kicks in. Keuhl said Schnittjer was also concerned about the designation of wetlands. Denney said this is an existing federal regulation that would not change in the Sensitive Areas Ordinance. Wilson said all the current ordinance says is that the steeper the slope, the more careful the developer must be, Kuehl said another speaker at the August 21 meeting, Connie Mutel, had stated that she feels single-family housing should not be exempt from the ordinance. Mutel also felt homeowner education is needed such that more effort is made to preserve prairie remnants. J. Pugh felt Mutel had made a good point in regard to preserving prairie remnants less than one acre in size. Chase agreed. Regarding the concern that passage of the ordinance will result in an unnecessary expense and increased bureaucracy, Denney said examination of similar ordinances in other jurisdictions had shown additional staff has generally not been needed, except in some larger jurisdictions. Generally, staff duties were shifted and existing staff was trained to coordinate the additional duties. Chase pointed out she had recently discovered that Johnson County has some 25,000 acres already zoned for residential development that simply have not yet been developed. Wilson added that expertise is needed to effectively implement the ordinance, but additional staff is not a given. Regarding the concern that the ordinance will result in an overlapping with current ordinances, Denhey said there is some overlapping, but this has been identified and language is being drafted that would amend existing ordinances, should this ordinance be adopted. Regarding the length of the ordinance and the need to condense it, Hoppin said this is an area that had received much thought. He felt the draft is a good compromise. It is not too vague and is not too specific. The Commission, specifically Wilson and Daniels, appeared to agree with Hoppin. Kuehl suggested that an index may direct the reader more quickly to the information being sought. J. Pugh said he feels the design standards in the ordinance are somewhat elitist. He said more attention along these lines does need to be placed in the county, however, as most development will occur there in the future. J. Pugh also said there is no mention of the application of the ordinance to manufactured housing zones. Denney said it is not identified because the ordinance would apply equally to all zones, RFBH or otherwise, Chase asked about the status of the Fringe Area Agreement. Miklo brought the Commission up to date. Riverfront & Natural Areas Commission August 30, 1995 Page 7 Regarding complaints, specifically from Wehde, about the expense undertaken to prepare the document, Daniels questioned whether these concerns are valid. Miklo said that much of the effort to date has been made by volunteers and that basically the only additional expense has been copy and mailing charges. Aside from this, staff duties have been shifted and some matters have been reprioritized, but this has not resulted in overtime, or in the need to hire additional staff. Daniels added that the net result of the implemented ordinance may be a balance of expenditure between addressing possible trouble areas beforehand, or fixing problems after the fact. Daniels said the ordinance may even preserve some aspects that are beyond measure. Rockwell asked if the Commission makes a recommendation to amend the recommended buffer widths, that available, accepted data be used as a measure. One of the reasons the Committee chose the floodway line for the stream corridor limits is because that line is mapped for the larger streams, and can be easily referred to by property owners, developers, and staff. V. Neary agreed the floodway could be used as the base, and have the buffer be two to three times the width of the floodway. J. Neary pointed out that the floodplain is a mapped area that could serve as a standard reference. The Commission decided to continue discussion of the Sensitive Areas Ordinance at its scheduled meeting of September 20, 1995. ADJOURNMENT: MOTION: Daniels moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:30 p.m.. J. Pugh seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0. Minutes submitted by Jeff Hating. rmnstmac8.30 MINUTES RIVERFRONT AND NATURAL AREAS COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 1995 - 7:30 P,M, CIVIC CENTER - COUNCIL CHAMBERS MEMBERS PRESENT: MEMBERS ABSENT: STAFF PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT; Sue Chase, Cortney Daniels, Nancy English, Richard Hoppin, Los Kuehl, Jessica Neary, Don Otto, Catherine Pugh, Larry Wilson John Pelton, Jim Pugh Denney, Haring None CALL TO ORDER, INTRODUCTIONS, AND ANNOUNCEMENTS: Chairperson Kuehl called the meeting to order at 5:34 p.m. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: Denney passed out an article submitted by Lon Drake, titled, "Human and Bacteria Cultures in Pond Restoration", from the July/August 1995 issue of Land and Water. CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES FROM THE JULY 19 AND AUGUST 16, 1995, MEETINGS: MOTION: O~to moved to approve the minutes from the July 19, 1995, meeting of the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission, as amended at tonight's meeting. Wilson seconded. Page 3, paragraph above item four, next to last sentence, Wilson asked that this be amended to add," .... but for now Benton Street to City Park is the area designated for lighting". Wilson said this was left out of the minutes and he feels this is an important element of the subject. The motion carried on a vote of 9-0. MOTION: C. Pugh moved to approve the minutes from the August 16, 1995, meeting of the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission. Daniels seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 9-0. MOTION: Wilson moved to defer consideration of the minutes from the August 21, 1995, joint meeting of the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission and Planning and Zoning Commission, to the October 18, 1995, meeting. C. Pugh seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 9-0. Resources & Natural Areas Commission September 20, 1995 Page 2 MOTION: Wilson moved to approve the minutes from the August 30, 1995, meeting of the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission. C. Pugh seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 9-Q. DISCUSSION OF THE PROPOSED SENSITIVE AREAS ORDINANCE: Denney noted that in order to clean up overlaps and conflicts of language, amendments will be needed to several existing ~ections of the City Code. These include amendments to: the Grading and Erosion Control Ordinance, City Code Section 14-51; and the Weed Control Ordinance, City Code Section 6-3-3. The River Corridor Overlay Zone, City Code Section 14- 6J-1, will also need to be repealed. The Commission reviewed the determined size of natural prairie remnants, as was raised by Connie Mutel at a previous meeting. Neary felt that a remnant as small as 1/4 or 1/8 an acre is justified as prairie remnants are an important part of American heritage and do not exist in conjunction with any other sensitive area. Daniels and Chase tended to agree. Wilson agreed with the good intentions of preserving remnants and our heritage, but said that 1/4 or 1/8 acre patches of land do not necessarily result in viable natural prairie remnants. Wilson noted that these patches would also require an access easement in order to maintain. C. Pugh noted concern about the costs the developer would incur for these small parcels of land, in addition to the existing requirements of the Open Space Ordinance. C. Pugh felt a patchwork of non-viable spaces would result. Wilson said that a number of years ago, while involved in the development of subdivisions, it came to be the consensus that spaces the size of those considered were not viable as they were more of a hassle than an amenity and tended to be neglected. Wilson said there are also the issues of natural, as opposed to created remnants, and, encroachment upon, as is the case at Whispering Meadows. Wilson added that fortunately the Whispering Meadows Wetland is large enough to absorb this encroachment. Otto asked what criteria, size and otherwise, were used to determine that the several identified locations on the Sensitive Areas Map, are natural prairie remnants. Denhey said the sites were identified by the consultant, and although he was unsure of the size determinant he noted that one or more of these identified areas may lie on private land. The Commission asked itself, then, whether this whole discussion is a moot point. Most appeared to feel this was the case. Daniels did note, however, that should the size of a remnant be reduced, more remnants are likely to be identified. (English left the meeting at 6:15 p.m. due to a previous engagement) MOTION: C. Pugh moved to recommend that the one acre size required for a prairie remnant as proposed by the Sensitive Areas Committee in the draft dated September 1, 1995, and presented in Sections L.2. a. and c. of the Sensitive Areas Ordinance, be justified so that it is consistent with what scientific knowledge considers to be a truly viable size for a natural prairie remnant. Should this justified size of a natural prairie remnant be found to be less than one acre in size, the remnant size should adjusted to match, but should the justified size be Resources & Natural Areas Commission September 20, 1995 Page 3 found to be one acre or larger, leave the remnant size as written. Daniels seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 8-O, with Enqlish absent. Wilson said that while some confusion may result from using a top of bank definition for a stream corridor, he feels that using such a definition would help to better protect trees along stream banks. Denhey indicated that the existing River Corridor Overlay Zone allows the property owner to designate either the top of bank or floodway line as the stream corridor and this has been viewed as a problem with the ordinance. The Overlay Zone is proposed to be repealed and replaced by the Sensitive Areas Ordinance. Neary pointed out that when the 15- foot buffer is added to the stream corridor requirement, the area 30 feet from the centerline of a stream will be protected. Neary said she was concerned that 30 feet was not sufficient, as she is all to aware of instances in which homeowners have lost property as a result of erosion. The Commission appeared to feel there is no one width for all instances and until the ordinance has been tested, the Commission felt comfortable to leave it as written. Denney noted the Sensitive Areas Committee also felt the City's Flood Plain Management Ordinance would more specifically address many of these issues. Denne¥ noted the Committee feels the Flood Piein Management Ordinance should be reviewed to address concerns raised by citizens regarding flood plain development. MOTION.: Daniels moved to recommend that the Chairperson of the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission send a letter to the Mayor recommending that the City review and consider amendments to the Flood Plain Management Ordinance to address concerns raised by citizens regarding flood plain development during the Commission's consideration of the Sensitive Areas Ordinance. Wilson seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0, with English absent. MOTION: C. Pugh moved to adopt the Sensitive Areas Ordinance as proposed by the Sensitive Areas Committee with revisions included in the draft dated September 1,1995, with the condition that the one acre size required for a prairie remnant in Sections L.2. a. and c. be justified so that it is consistent with what scientific knowledge considers to be a truly viable size for a natural prairie remnant. Should this viable size of a natural prairie remnant be found to be less than one acre in size, the remnant size should adjusted to match, but should the viable size be found to be one acre or larger, leave the remnant size as written. Chase seconded. Wilson said that although he would like to adjust many facets of the ordinance, he was willing to compromise in order to see the ordinance passed and more action taken to preserve sensitive areas within the community. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0, with English absent. OTHER: C. Pugh asked that the Commission get back on top of River Month activities and that this be put on the October meeting agenda. The Commission agreed. Daniels added that she would also like to have a brain storming session to set a month-to-month agenda that would Resources & Natural Areas Commission September 20, 1995 Page 4 attempt to consider more of the items on the Commission Pending List. Denney noted that a Water Watch related group would like'to meet with the Commission next month, which would be a possible tie-in to River Month. The Commission asked that the Ned Ashton Park item be put back on the October agenda as there are a few matters the Commission should be brought up to date on. ADJOURNMENT: MOTION: C. Pugh moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:00 p.m.. Daniels seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0, with English absent. Minutes submitted by Jeff Hating. ppdadrnin'~'ni~',O-20mac HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 21, 1995 SENIOR CENTER, LOWER LEVEL CLASSROOM Members Present: Ann Donovan, Charlie Eastham, John Falb (left at 8:40 p.m.), Jim Harris, Linda Murray, Christina Randall, Tim Ruxton, Gretchen Schmuch Members Absent: Elizabeth Swenson (called absent) Staff: Doug Boothroy, Stephen Long, Marianne Milkman, Steve Nasby RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL 'l'he Commission recommends approval of a budget amendment to the Supplemental CDBG Budget (Flood Allocation #2). MEETING CALLED TO ORDER Temporary Chair Murray called the first HCD meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Falb moved that the minutes of the August 22, 1995, Committee on Community Needs meeting be approved. Randall seconded the motion. The motion passed 6-0. (Only former CCN mem- bers voted on this motion.) ELECTION OF CHAIR AND VICE-CHAIR Murray asked for nominations for Chairperson. Eastham nominated Murray as Chair with Randall seconding the nomination. No other nominations were made and Murray accepted the appoint- ment. Randall nominated Harris for Vice-Chair with Eastham seconding. No other nominations were made and Harris accepted the appointment. PUBLIC\MEMBER DiSCUSSiON OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA Eastham requested that the amended Disposition Plan for Public Housing units at Broadway submitted by the Iowa City Public Housing Authority (ICPHA) be sent to the HCD Commission for review. ESTABLISHING A MEETING DATE AND TIME Murray asked if anyone had days or times they could not attend meetings. The consensus was that evenings worked the best between 6:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. After discussion the Commission selected the second Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. as its regular meeting time. GENERAL DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION Milkman thanked the members for volunteering to serve. She said that the duties and responsibil- ities were outlined in the bylaws and that there were three main points she wanted to discuss. First, she said the Council had considered the appointments and reviewed the bylaws very carefully and decided to eliminate the Council representative to the HCD Commission. Milkman explained why a Council representative had been appointed in the past and Council did not feel Housing and Community Development Commission September 21, 1995 Page 2 the need to continue it on this Commission. She added that Council requested that Boards and Commissions keep attendance records and that those records would be used in the future when Council considered reappointmerits. Second, Milkman wanted the members to read the conflict of interest memo from the City Attorney. She said that since this Commission dealt with a large amount of money in CDBG and HOME everyone should be aware of the legal opinion. The opinion says that Commission members who are involved with an organization requesting funds cannot become involved with the discussion or vote on any application for funding concerning that agency; however, members could discuss and vote on other applications. She stressed that while Commission members may have interests in agencies that apply for funding the members should be objective when considering the applications. Eastham added that he thinks it is important for the Commission members to note the particular interests of their fellow Commissioners and any potential conflicts they may have regarding funding proposals. Finally, Milkman briefly discussed the role of the HCD Commission and the City's Rehab Review Board. She said that Jack McMahon (formerly of the Housing Commission) was currently serving and had expressed an interest to continue. Milkman said that since no one currently on HCD has a construction background that it would be beneficial to the program for McMahon to continue. The Commission agreed and requested that Milkman contact McMahon. Milkman noted that there was an alternate position that is currently held by Eastham. Eastham said that an alternate was probably not necessary to continue. Milkman said that since this is a hybrid Commission all members will have new issues to learn about. Boothroy presented the Commission with a brief description of how HIS and the ICPHA fit into the role of the HCD Commission. He said that the Commission will have the responsibility to review Housing Code amendments, funding requests made by the ICPHA and housing plans and policies relating to assisted and public housing. Since most of the HCD members were new to the workings of the ICPHA he distributed several handouts detailing statistical facts relating to both assisted and public housing. Several Commission members had questions on the informa- tion and how the program worked. Boothroy suggested that the Commission have someone from the Housing Authority come to one of their meetings to answer their questions and explain the programs in detail. Boothroy noted that the Commission would be receiving a monthly statistics sheet from the ICPHA that would update them on the status of the Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Boothroy reviewed the report with the members and answered their questions. Falb and Donovan asked about what documents or reports they could read to increase their knowledge of the programs and activities the HCD Commission was responsible for overseeing. Milkman referred them back to the bylaws that referenced planning documents and policies. She encouraged them to read the CITY STEPS Plan. This plan contained Councirs policy on housing, jobs, and services for low income persons. Milkman also noted that Council was holding a special policy meeting on affordable rental housing on September 30, 1995, and the public was welcome to attend and listen. Milkman said that Congressional funding for CDBG and HOME is currently slated to remain at last year's levels. This was due to the program's effectiveness, advocacy and publicity on the "good" things accomplished by both CDBG and HOME. She asked the Commission to note that advocacy and promoting these programs were duties outlined in the bylaws. The main public awareness "event" hosted by the Commission each year was Community Development Week that is usually held in April. Additionally, the Commission gets publicity when the CDBG and HOME allocation process is underway. She noted that allocations are the Commission's biggest responsibility and the Council has generally followed what the Commission has recommended. Housing and Community Development Commission September 21, 1995 Page 3 BUDGET AMENDMENT FOR SUPPLEMENTAL CDBG FUNDS FLOOD #2) Nasby said that a proposed budget amendment had been included in the packet. The amend- ment was necessary to cover costs incurred by the flood repairSrehab program. When asked how many repairSrehab projects were left to be funded with this amendment Long said there were four- five manufactured home repairs and several single-family homes. Nasby said that most of the Flood #2 funds were used to purchase undeveloped floodplain property to mitigate future flood damage. The largest property is located along the Iowa River on "the peninsula" and contained approximately 115 acres of floodplain. He also noted that the flood grant had expired and approximately $420,000 may be returned to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Develop- ment (HUD). Eastham asked if we could persuade HUD to let us extend the grant period. Milkman said HUD would redistribute the funds to communities still in need of flood relief. Eastham moved that the budget amendment be approved as presented, Falb seconded the motion. The motion passed 8-0. REVIEW OF THE FY95 GRANTEE PERFORMANCE REPORT (GPR) Murray declared the public hearing on the FY95 GPR open. Long said that an annual report is required by HUD. The GPR is designed to show how CDBG funds were spent and who benefit- ted. Falb asked when the report was due to HUD. Long said that it was due by September 30, 1995. Murray asked why the amount allocated to the GICHF was $151,500 when CCN had allocated $150,000, Nasby responded that the figure on the GPR included the $1,500 in staff project delivery costs set-aside for that project. Murray asked if funds were not spent if they would go into the contingency fund. Milkman said "yes," however, CCN carried over some projects like the GICHF into the next year so those funds would not be added into contingency. Milkman added that the CDBG program currently has a large carry-over due to GICHF and the Neighborhood Center projects that have yet to spend their FY95 funds. She said that the City is over the limit of funds that can be carried forward, however, she was confident that Neighbor- hood Centers would be spending their funds in the next month or two, In response to Schmuch, Milkman said that if these CDBG funds do not get spent HUD could withhold future allocations. She added that HOME funds are different and that if we do not legally commit them in two years then we lose the money. Murray asked what CDBG rehab programs were used to assist manu- factured housing units. Milkman said that most often it is under the Emergency Repair Program. When we are contacted the staff makes an inspection of the home and we end up fixing all of the health and safety items we find. Murray asked about energy efficiency. Milkman said that HACAP does energy efficiency. Murray closed the public hearing. INFORMATIONAL OR EDUCATIONAL TOPICS Murray said that the Committee on Community Needs (CCN) had wanted to setup a joint meeting with the Planning and Zoning Commission to discuss affordable housing issues. Schmuch asked if we could have other cities give presentations on the affordable housing projects they completed. Milkman said that we could do this but Iowa City is unique due to the University and the housing market. She said that most cities have deteriorated housing they buy and rehab, have undevel- oped land available, and do not have the kind of rental market pressure present in Iowa City. Milkman added that the Council was planning a policy meeting on September 30, 1995, to discuss affordable housing issues and this may be helpful for the Commission members. Eastham responded that he thought inviting someone from Metro Area Housing Program in Cedar Rapids would still be educational. Milkman said that the Commission would be reviewing the Housing and Community Development Commission September 21, 1995 Page 4 Housing Rehabilitation Manual in the future and suggested that the Commission have Pam Barnes, the Rehabilitation Officer, give a presentation. Murray said another issue CCN had discussed dealt with the allocation process. She said that there were some agencies\organizations that requested funding every year like LIFE Skills. Murray wanted to know if the rest of the Commission members were interested in talking with Council to see if they could fund programs like this since CDBG was not intended to be an ongoing soume of funding for agencies. Donovan asked how one learns about this committee. Murray suggested that Linda Severson, the Johnson County Council of Governments (JCCOG) Human Services Coordinator, be invited to speak at an HCD meeting since human service agencies traditionally request CDBG funds. Eastham suggested that reading CITY STEPS and the past CDBG and HOME applications would provide a good background of information. Murray asked if it would be beneficial for the Commission to ask someone from the Greater Iowa City Housing Fellowship or Robert Burns to come to a meeting and explain what the barriers are to finding land for affordable rental housing. Randall asked if any studies had been done regarding barriers to affordable housing. Milkman responded that a study is in the works and a draft copy of the first half should be completed by September 30, 1995, She thought the whole document may be available near the end of the year. ADJOURNMENT Eastham moved that the meeting be adjourned, Randall seconded and the motion passed 7-0. The meeting was adjourned at 9:12 p.m. pl)dcd13g~nln~'.~hc(19-21 .m~