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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2000-08-01 Info Packet of 7/27 CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION PACKET "~/~Y~,'~' July 27, 2000 JULY 31 WORK SESSION ITEMS iP1 Memorandum from Acting Traffic Engineering Planner: College Street and Washington Street Traffic Calming Evaluation I MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS IP2 Memorandum from City Manager: Williams Pipeline/Iowa City Terminal - City Water Supply IP3 Memorandum from City Manager: Pending Development Issues IP4 Memorandum from City Manager: Vacation IP5 Memorandum from City Manager: Errors/Omissions Insurance Coverage IP6 Letter from City Manager to MaW Schlueter (City High PSTO): Sign IP7 Letter from City Manager to Iowa City Press Citizen Editor: Skate Park Letter to Editor IP8 Memorandum from Administrative Assistant: Web Site Deer Comment Board IP9 Memorandum from City Clerk: Iowa League of Cities IP10 Memorandum from City Attorney: Vacation IP11 Memorandum from Parking and Transit Director to City Manager: Twenty-Five Cent Fare Week IP12 Memorandum from Dianna Furman: Utility Discount Program Statistics by Month - Fiscal Years 99 and 00 IP13 Note from Community Development Commission: Appreciation IP14 City Utility News - August 2000 City Council Report - Wastewater Treatment & Collection Facility Special Projects: Photographical Report - Water Facility Improvements Memorandum from City Clerk: Vacation Letter from j. Patrick White, J.C. Atty. - Civil Penalties (Tobacco issues) City of Iowa City MEMORANDUM Date: July 26, 2000 To: City Council From: Jeff Davidson, Acting Traffic Engineering Planner ~'~// Re: College Street and Washington Street traffic calming evaluation In June 1999 three traffic circles were installed on College Street and Washington Street; one at the intersection of Summit Street and Washington Street, one at the intersection of Summit Street and College Street, and one mid-block on College Street between Summit Street and Muscatine Avenue. These traffic circles were installed at your direction after a neighborhood survey indicated approximately a 50-50 split of persons in favor of the traffic circles and opposed to the traffic circles. According to our traffic calming process, an evaluation is to occur one year after the installation of any traffic calming devices to determine whether or not they have been successful. In your evaluation you may determine to leave the existing traffic circles in place, reconstruct them in a more permanent fashion, or remove them entirely. The traffic circles were constructed of asphalt by City crews and can be removed relatively easily if that is the desire. To assist you with your evaluation, we have the following information: Follow-up traffic count. One year ago the Average Daily Traffic recorded on College Street was 1,567 vehicles, with the 85th percentlie vehicle speed (the general speed at which motorists feel comfortable) recorded at 30 mph. Traffic volumes were similar on Washington Street, although speeds were slightly slower. The follow-up traffic count recorded in May 2000 indicates Average Daily Traffic volume on College Street of 1,161 vehicles and 774 vehicles on Washington Street. Eighty-fifth percentlie speed is 29 mph on College Street and 27.5 mph on Washington Street. The data indicate there has been a modest decrease in traffic volume and vehicle speeds on College Street and Washington Street since the installation of the traffic circles. I would not attribute the change in volume and speeds solely to the traffic circles, but they are likely a contributing factor. Collision data. From March of 1999 to May of 2000 there were no reported traffic collisions at the intersection of Summit Street and Washington Street, or mid-block on College Street between Summit Street and Muscatine Avenue. There was one collision at the intersection of College Street and Summit Street, which was a failure to yield the right-of-way from a stop sign. The collision was a property damage only-type collision and it is not clear whether or not the traffic circle was a contributing factor. Survey of emergency service, public works, and transit providers. The traffic calming evaluation process requires solicitation of comments from the Fire Department, the Police Department, Johnson County Ambulance, the City of Iowa City Streets Division, and Iowa City Transit. One comment was received from the Fire Chief. He stated: "1 am sensitive to the need for the use of traffic calming devices, and sympathize with citizen complaints regarding cut-through traffic and speeding. However, the Fire Department is opposed to the use of traffic calming devices as they do not discriminate on the type of traffic that is slowed down. Emergency vehicles are slowed by these devices and this has a negative effect on the services that we provide. Illegally parked vehicles in No Parking zones can completely obstruct the street for emergency vehicles. Minimum overhead vertical clearance Traffic Calming Evaluation Memo July 26, 2000 Page 2 should be maintained at 13', 6". Apparently the growth of tree limbs/branches has complicated the issue." Neighborhood Survey. The surrounding neighborhood which was originally surveyed was asked to return a questionnaire indicating their preference from the following three choices: (1) would they like the three traffic circles on College Street and Washington Street to remain; (2) would they like them to be removed, with the understanding that other traffic calming measures will be considered; or (3) would they like the traffic circles removed with no other traffic calming measures considered. The survey was of a total of 122 individual dwelling units; 63 of these were single-family units, and 59 were multi-family units. Fifty-seven survey questionnaires were returned, a response rate of 47%. Thirty-four of the responses were from single-family residences, and 23 responses were from multi-family residences. The results of the survey were as follows: Number of Traffic Calming Survey Responses I would like the three traffic circles on College Street and Washington Street to 30 (53%) remain. I would like the traffic circles to be removed with the understanding that other 7 (12%) traffic calming proposals will be considered. I would like the traffic circles to be removed and no additional traffic calming 18 (32%) proposals pursued. 2 (3%) No response Forty-five survey comments were received on the questionnaires, primarily negative in nature toward the traffic circles. I received several comments by phone, split approximately equally positive and negative. There were both positive and negative comments received pertaining to the aesthetic qualities of the traffic circles. There have been several questions related to the difference in the responses from single-family residences compared to multi-family residences. Interestingly, each group responded with almost identical rates of approval; 53% from single-family residences and 52% from multi-family residences. This is consistent with the original response of approximately 50-50 in favor and opposed to the traffic circles, and indicates that it is consistent from single-family or multi-family residences. It should be noted that when staff was developing the original traffic calming proposal with the neighborhood, it was determined that traffic circles were the appropriate traffic calming feature to be installed. Other devices such as chicanes, diverters, and speed humps were not appropriate given the specific characteristics of the neighborhood. Stop signs are not to be used for speed control because they introduce a whole new set of problems when they are installed in unwarranted situations. The decision to have traffic calming on College and Washington Streets rests solely with the City Council, but if you remain committed to the program we believe traffic circles are the appropriate traffic calming feature for this neighborhood. Let's plan to discuss this matter at your August 31 work session. cc: Steve Atkins Karin Franklin Marcia Klingaman Chuck Schmadeke Rick Fosse Andy Rocca Iw/mern/jd-traffcircles .doc City of Iowa City MEMORANDUM Date: July 24, 2000 To: City Council From: City Manager Re: Williams Pipeline/Iowa City Terminal - City Water Supply Attached is a letter that was directed to the attention of Williams Pipeline Company. We were made aware of subsurface contamination at and near the Williams terminal located in Coralville. Due to the potential for the subsurface contamination to move and thereby possibly affect our raw water sources, we have made known to the Williams Pipeline Company our concern and desire to work with them in assuring the City's water supply continues to be of high quality. We will be reviewing reports submitted to the DNR and have undertaken an independent review of these reports. We do so to know the impact of the leak from their facility and how it might affect our water system. We will keep you advised. cc: Director of Public Works ~' mgr\memos\williams,doc July 18, 2000 Dennis Whitfield Manager, Operations & Maintenance Willlares Pipeline Company 5354 American Legion Road Iowa City, IA 52240-8354 Dear Mr. Whitfield: After preliminary review of your .lune 2000 report prepared by Leggette, Brashears & Graham, Inc. regarding the subsurface investigation for the Williams Iowa City Terminal located in Coralville, it appears there may be a potentially adverse impact on the new water well field that was recently constructed by the City of Iowa City. The City of Iowa City has since 1993 extensively investigated raw water sources for its new water treatment plant. The alluvial sand and gravel located north and south of Interstate #80 along the east side of the Iowa River on the peninsula and new water plant sites are a vital and important part of the City's proposed water system improvements. This well field draws water from the shallow (30 to 50 feet) sand and gravel deposits adjacent to and underlying the Iowa River. The limited availability of good quality source water in an abundant quantity along the Iowa River basin makes this water well field an invaluable resource to the entire region. As it is our responsibility to protect this source water and our water facility infrastructure, Iowa City has decided to seek an independent review of your report to better evaluate the potential impacts of the leak from your facility. This will be the first step to the development of a strategy to safeguard our water system. We appreciate your notifying us of this problem and the preparation of the report. Our intention is to continue to work with you and whoever else may be involved to prevent an adverse impact on our water facility. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to call me at 356-5141. ~arl~es 3. Schmd/ee~ " Director of Public Works cc: Edward Moreno Water Superintendent, City of Iowa City ~teve Atkins City Manager, City of Iowa City Daniel Cook IDNR Project Engineer Uncontrolled Sites Wallace State Office Building Des Moines, IA 50319 410 EAST WASHINGTON STREET * IOWA CITY, IOWA 52240-1826 * (319) 356-5000 * FAX (319) 356-5009 City of Iowa City MEMORANDUM Date: July 26, 2000 To: City Council From: City Manager Re: Pending Development Issues An application from Julie Cassell for a rezoning from Low Density Multi-Family Residential Zone (RM-12) and Neighborhood Conservation Residential Zone (RNC-20) to Medium Density Single-Family Residential Zone (RS-8), for properties fronting on Washington Street between Muscatine Avenue and Governor Street, the east side of Governor Street between Washington Street and Iowa Avenue, Muscatine Avenue between Iowa Avenue and Washington Street, Summit Street between Washington Street and Burlington Street, and propedies on the south side of the 900 block of Iowa Avenue. An application from the Historic Preservation Commission to rezone one lot from (CB-10) Central Business Zone to (OHP/CB-10) Historical Preservation, Central Business Overlay Zone located at 13 South Linn Street. An application submitted by David and Karen Baculis for a variance to the use requirements of the industrial (I-1) zone to allow continuation of a residential use established in the I-1 zone. mg~mem/developmt.doc  07-27-00 City of Iowa City iP4 MEMORANDUM TO: City Council FROM: City Manager DATE: July 21, 2000 RE: Vacation I will be out of town from Saturday, July 29 through Thursday, August 3. Dale will cover the Council meetings. Lisa has my itinerary. cc: Department Directors City of Iowa City MEMORANDUM Date: July 26, 2000 To: City Council From: Stephen J. Atkins, City Manager Re: Errors/Omissions Insurance Coverage From time to time Council Members have expressed interest in touring the community, possibly even inspecting work sites, etc. In an organized, collective fashion (i.e., the Full Council) this can be accomplished. We are planning a tour of City facilities in the early fall and will be seeking dates/schedules from you. There has also been interest in individual Council Members conducting their own on-site inspections. It is for this reason I would like to bring a note of caution to you. Of particular concern to me is the "inspection" process. Council Members, as any citizen, are invited to observe and learn about various construction projects and other activities as long as they follow the proper safety rules and regulations on the particular work site. This is for the Council Members' safety as well as the workers. Council Members are in the unique position of making the policy decision to approve/disapprove a particular project. My concern is whether you, as an individual Council Member, would engage contractors or others responsible for a particular project in any conversation/discussion which might be interpreted as a City directire. If anyone at a construction project were to rely on a Council Member's comments in the field, our errors and omissions insurance would not cover the consequences of these actions. For instance, if you were to make a statement about your opinion or encourage a direction on a project and the contractor were to rely on that statement or opinion and take action accordingly, any mistakes, errors or fault would fall directly on the City. We have project managers assigned to not only fulfill the policy, but also represent the City's interest to assure the work is done in accordance with the contract. Our project managers are available to answer your questions. When you are representing the City as a City Council Member, I urge your caution, particularly regarding any comments to individuals that could be interpreted incorrectly. cc: Department Directors ~~. sa-nosubject.doc | .h ~ IP6 July 24, 2000 Ms. Mary Schlueter City High PSTO President 1900 Morningside Drive Iowa City IA 52245 Dear Ms. Schlueter: This letter is in response to City High's request for an exemption from the Iowa City sign ordinance regarding an off-premise sign in a CN-1 zone. Council discussed the request and has decided to not allow any exception to the Code. I have included Jann Ream's memo to Council which best explains the intricacies of this ordinance. If you have specific questions, please feel free to call Jann at 356-5120. Sincerely yours, City Manager Enclosure cc: City Council Jann Ream 410 EAST WASHINGTON STREET · IOWA CITY, IOWA 52240-1826 * (319) 356-5000 · FAX (319) 356-5009 csrr os sow c rr MEMORANDUM To: City Council From: Jann Ream, code enforcement assistant Date:July 7, 2000 Re: City High School sign Mary Schlueter, president of the City H.S. PSTO, is requesting an exemption from the Iowa City sign ordinance in order to place an off premise sign in a CN-1 zone. Since the Council cannot simply exempt a person or organization from the requirements of City Code, it was requested that the Council be informed of the issues and choices involved in allowing this sign. Basically, the City High PSTO can appeal through existing processes to have the sign allowed or request an ordinance amendment. When Ms. Schlueter first approached Housing & Inspection Services about using the sign at Dan's Short Stop, it was discussed with Doug Boothroy if this sign could be catorgorized as a "public sign". Public signs are allowed in all zones without a permit. The definition of public sign - "a non commercial sign installed by or on the order or authorization of the City or other public agency in the public interest which includes but is not limited to, safety signs, zoning signs, memorial plaques, signs for structures or sites of historical interest and all similar signs."- really does not apply in this case. Even though the definition in listing examples states "not limited to", the intent is to include such signs as directional signs, hospital emergency signs, and all similar types of signs that provide necessary information to the general public. A Zoning Interpretation Panel could be called to see if this definition might be applicable; but, if the City did include the City High PSTO sign in this definition, it could create a precedent for any type of civic organization to put up off premises signs in any zone of Iowa City including residential zones. Also there is another type of sign whose definition more appropriately applies to the City High PSTO sign and that is an "institutional sign." The definition of an institutional sign is "a sign which displays the name of a religious institution, school, library, community center, civic, cultural, or historic institution, nursing home, hospital or similar institution and announces its services or activities." Institutional signs are allowed with a permit in all zones but if it is not located on the same lot as the institution then it is also an off premises sign and can only be permitted in zones that allow off premises signs. A variance could be applied for but the City High PSTO would have a difficult if not impossible task of proving hardship. And it is doubtful if they would want to pay the $308.00 application fee if they don't want to pay to relocate a flee sign from Dan's Short Stop to City High property abutting 1 ~t Avenue. The Council could consider an ordinance amendment that would allow an off premises sign in a CN-1 zone but would need to include some limitations and safeguards. The Zoning Ordinance states that businesses in a CN-1 zone are supposed to be "relatively nuisance flee to surrounding residences and do not detract from the residential purpose and character of the surrounding neighborhood." Allowing off premises signs in this zone would seem to be contrary to the intent of the CN-1 zone. It was shown to the City High PSTO that they could relocate the sign to actual City H.S. property farther south on 1st Avenue (approx. ½ mile). It is my understanding that due to relocation costs, that option was eliminated. If any council member has further questions on this issue, please feel free to call 356-5120. cc: Doug Boothroy City HIgh PS'I'9 City High School Iowa Ci~, Iowa 52240 Phone 339-6811 June 7, 2000 Iowa City Council 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52245 Dear City Council members: Dan Glasgow from Dan's Short Stop has graciously donated his advertising sign on First Avenue to City High. City High may then announce events and achievements in the community. Off premises signs according to Iowa City Sign ordinance zoning code 14-60 Chapter 14-60-4-B-I0 are not permitted in a CN1 zone. Other options such as placing the sign on City High property or another area along First Avenue have been explored and ruled out due to relocation cost and poor advertising site. In faot, where the sign is presently located is the ideal site to broadcast City High events. City high is a leader in academic, sports, and the arts. It produces leaders in our community. What better way to promote a working relationship with City High and the community than t'o allow City High this offpremise's sign at Dan's Short Stop? City High is requesting an exemption from this ordinance. We await your decision. Sincerely, Mary Sc~ueter City High PSTO President 07-27-00 | .b z IP7 July 26, 2000 Iowa City Press Citizen Attention: Editor 1725 N. Dodge Street Iowa City, IA 52245 To the Editor: In a letter from Mr. Pat Novak of North Liberty, he expresses his dissatisfaction with the City's planning process for a new skate park. This decision involved the City's Parks and Recreation Commission; a recreational consultant; professional staff, including the Risk Manager and City Attorney; City Council; as well as many young citizens interested in the possibility of such a facility. Under state law the City is immune from liability for injuries resulting from the risk inherent in skate boarding and in-line skating. It is unfortunate that Mr. Novak has chosen to refer to the people involved as "too dumb to plan." This immunity provision was one of the considerations in our planning for a skate park. Rather than name calling, Mr. Novak would be better served by attempting to do a little basic research into the facts surrounding a recreational issue or project. Sincerely, City Manager indexbc\ltrs~-I SJA,doc 410 EAST WASHINGTON STREET · IOWA CITY, IOWA 52240-1826 · (319) 356-5000 · FAX (319) 356-5009 ' ZET'FE EDITORIALS Skate park planning: Model for progress ONE COULD GAIN SOME HOPE for the future by following the development of plans for a skate park in Iowa City. Most recently, more than two dozen "kids," ranging in age from 10 to at least 25, met with Parks and Recreation Director Terry Trueblood at the ScanIon Gymnasium on Monday and Tuesday nights to hammer out modifica- tions and details for the skate park, to be located in Terrell Mill Park. Too bad more adults couldn't have watched the dynamics of young people working with city officials, the architect and the professional skate park consul- rant -- a former skateboarder now enjoying a productive career as an expert on skate parks. And not just any young people, but a group that is often pigeon-holed as delinquent in some respect. Maybe if people could see these kids in action, working for something they are passionate about, they might not feel so intimidated or repulsed or annoyed the next time they see' a pierced, dyed, decked-out youth. These meetings were simply the next step in what is now an eight-year-old project, if you consider that six teen-agers brought up the idea for a skate park at a meeting with downtown business owners in 1992. · . Some of those six are still involved in' the pro- Maybe if people could ject, and they will see it see these kids in come to completion, probably within a year. action, working for The shared learning something they are experience of taking the passionate about, they teens' idea and turning might not feel so it into reality has in- intimidated or repulsed cluded positives and negatives for both the or annoyed the next young people and the time they see a city officials with whom pierced, dyed,, they have worked. Skat- ers were frustrated over decked-out youth. .the years as the City, Council wrestled with where skating should be prohibited, both for safety reasons and to protect property from damage. The skaters just wanted to have fun. City officials were frustrated as some skaters continued to break the law even as they tried to reach compromises that seemed reasonable. Trueblood said after Monday's design session that the biggest lesson he had learned from the experience was how smart the kids are and how much he was able to learn from them. (And skaters aren't the only young people who could teach adults a thing or two.) The kids got a hands-on lesson in how the city government process works and what approach works best in dealing with adults. Maybe it's also too bad that more kids couldn't have observed the give-and-take process that is leading to a terrific skate park for the community. Those same lessons could be applied to dealing with Mom and Dad or the school board or even with each other. City of Iowa City MEMORANDUM TO: City Council FROM: Administrative Assistant DATE: July 21, 2000 RE: Website Deer Comment Board The Deer Management Committee is very interested in creating forums for residents to comment on and discuss Iowa City's deer. Today our Web Developer, Kent Bliven, made available a "Deer Comment Board" at the City's website. We will periodically print and distribute the messages to Council and the Deer Management Committee. If you would like to view the page, please enter the following address: http ://www. iowa-city. org/deer_comments. htm Call me if you have any questions. City of Iowa City MEMORANDUM DATE: July 27, 2000 TO: Mayor and City Council FROM: Marian K. Karr, City Clerk RE: Iowa League of Cities Just a reminder that the Iowa League of Cities Annual Conference is planned September 27-29 in Dubuque. If you are interested in attending, please complete the attached forms and return to me. Thus far I have registered Cotmcil Members Kanner, Vanderhoef, and Wilbum. Attachments: Registration Form Housing Request Registration Fees Registration Form ,.d,.d., .d.i,,,o. ,o workshops ond meol fundions on the mnferen~e ogendo. Iowo Leogue of Cities Pleose inform Andi Slewort o! (515) 244-7282 of oc~essibilily ] 02nd Annuol Conference &Exhibit or dietory o~ommodo/ions you moy require. On-site Dubuque Five Flogs Center regigrotion fees ore subiea to increose. September 27-29, 2000 Please circle only one. Before After Entire ¢onference Aug, ! 8 Aug. ! 8 (Excludes dinner Thursdoy evening) City/~ompony Leogue member ~130 Nome (osto oppeor on bodge) Non-Leogue member S205 $230 Thursdq mnference extlend.me only Title Includes workshops, breokfos! ond lunch. Leogue member S 90 S120 Stree| oddress Non-Leogue member ~1 ~5 S] 95 Cily State Zip Thursday evening Riverboat dinner cruse Phone Fax ~30 x aUendees S (~ Yes? I'm a first time delegate. Wednesday golf fees Gues registration s40x __ players 6ues! registration is complimentary. However, tjcket~ for menIs end the guest tour must Extra tickets for g ests be purchased separately. (See fees section, right.) Thursday' breakfast S6 x auendees Thursday lureheart Guest name (as to appear on badge) S1S x a.endees Thursday Dubuque Tour Workshops Proconference adi es Riverfront/Downtown Development-reservation required These activities run concurrently on the afternoon of Wednesday, September 27.No charge x ~ attendees Complimentary Please select only one. City Tour - reservation required No charge x __ attendees Complimentary (~) Leadership Workshop (1 - 4 p.m. Wednesday) Thursday Spouse/Guest Tour This session is complimentary for registered delegates. Because space is limited,S15 x altondoes we ask that you sign up in advance. Friday brumh 515 x afendees 0 Iowa Best Ball Golf Tournament (Wednesday afternoon) S40 per person entry fee includes greens fees for 18 holes, cart and refreshments.Total amount enclosed* $ All golfers must be registered delegates or guests. Foursomes and tee times will be*Registration will not be processed without payment,' checks determined by handicap. only, please. Hotel reservations are made and billed with the Housing Request form. Credit card payment is accepted for hotel reservations. All cancellations must be received in writing Name/tifie by September 15. No refunds will be made for no-shows. Cancellations after September 15 are subject to a $50 admin- City/firm istration fee. Handicap for 18 holes Mail this form and payment to: Iowa League of Cities Questions? 317 Sixth Avenue, Suite 1400 Call the League at (515) 244-7282. 4L_I~,~3~INi~,,~q~ Des Molnes, IA 50309-41 ! i Housing Request Iowa League of Cities - :;-.. 102nd Annual Conference &Exhibit . 'F~t offjce Use only:'~= :' September 27-29, 2000, Dubuque .=::'.:=N~~~ll ~'~ ~ hotel, below. If you would like to make arrangements to slay at these facilities,.. - :~::~: :....:. !. ::::' .= .;= .choice hotel. lhis housing form must accompany your registration form. Only registered'If changes are a~ce~'ry, please t0ntad the't. ibg'ue'~'offit~!at delegates, exhibitors and guests may occupy a room wilhin the League's ' (51'5) 244-7282i~n~diatel~. ~'~:!;; ':: :::'.' . ' :' ';: ~!: :; room blocks. The hotels will not take reservations for rooms within the · · League's room blocks. Housing requests are fulfilled on a first-come, first-~: served basis. Prices are honored until August 21. Only one room per form. Please make copies of lhjs form for additional rooms. If you have questions,Other room o~mpants contact the League office at (515) 244-7282. Name Name Name City/company Name Arrival date Departure date Method of payment (~ Smoking room (~) Nonsmoking room Please indicate firsl, second and third choices. Check the type ofTo qualify for lax exemption for rooms paid for by your city, you musl accommodations desired. provide tax exemption documentation directly to hotel. A room reservation will not be made without a ~redit mrd Holiday Inn (headquarters hotel)* to guarantee it. 450 Main Street ................................................................... (~) Single or double S62 Please charge my credit card as listed below. (~ King Whirlpool S92 (~ Visa ~ MasterCard Best Western Dubuque Inn 4~ Discover (~) American Express 3434 Dodge Street q~) Single or double 571 Name of cardholder Days Inn Card number 1111 Dodge Streel l~)Single or double S62 Expiration date Julian Inn* Signature 200 Main Street (~ Single S45 (~) Double 549 Mail lhis |arm with registration and payment to: · Within walking distance of the conference Iowa League of Cities Questions? 317 Sixth Avenue, Suite 14OO Call the League at (515) 244-7282. Des Molnes, IA 50309-41 ! 1 City of Iowa City MEMORANDUM Date: July 27, 2000 To: City Council ' ~f/) From: Eleanor Dilkes, City Attorne Re: Vacation I will be out of the office from August 4 through August 18. Sarah Holecek will be Acting City Attorney in my absence and will handle the City Council meetings on August 14 and 15. My staff will know how to reach me. cc: Steve Atkins, City Manager Dale Helling, Assistant City Manager Madan Karr, City Clerk Sarah Holecek, Assistant City Attorney Department Directors ed-vacation.doc City of Iowa City MEMORANDUM t Date: July 25, 2000 To: Steve Atkins, City Manager From: Joe Fowler, Director of Parking & Transik~ Re: Twenty-five cent fare week With the recent increase in gasoline prices the Transit Division decided to do a promotion to encourage residents to Try Transit. During the week of July 10 to 15 Transit fares were reduced from $.75 to $.25 per trip. July is traditionally a low transit ridership month due to vacations and nice weather that enables alternate modes of transportation such as walking and bicycling. Despite this, the promotion was judged to be a success. To calculate the effect of the reduced fare, comparisons were made to the weeks before and after the promotion and the same weeks the previous year. There was an increase of 3,152 rides during the week of July 10 to 15, the reduced fare week, when compared to the week of June 26 to July 1, full fare week. There was an increase of 3,397 rides compared to the week of July 12 to 17, 1999. To calculate the residual effect of the promotion, ridership for the week after the promotion was compared to the week before and the same week the previous year. During the week of July 17 to 22 there was an increase of 166 rides over the week of June 26 to July 1, 2000. There was an increase of411 rides over the week of July 12 to 17, 1999. The increase in ridership during the week of the promotion demonstrates the effect of price on ridership. The increase the week following the promotion demonstrates that if we can get people to Try Transit they find it an acceptable form of transpodation. indexbc\memos\3-1JF.doc Treasury Division Memorandum Date: 20-Jul-00 To: City Manager and City Council From: Dianna Furman Subj: Utility Discount Program Statistics by Month - Fiscal Years' 99 and ' 00 Water Sewer Refuse Total Accounts Recyling Water Sewer on Discount Water Sewer Refuse Recycling Month Discounts Discounts Program Discount Tax Discount Discount Discount Discount Total Discounts FY99 Jul 109 59 168 431.88 21.61 433.10 478.88 153.30 1,518.77 Aug 115 59 174 612.42 30.70 614.16 728.16 233.10 2,218.54 Sept 120 62 182 631.89 31.67 633.68 780.64 249.90 2,327.78 Oct 117 57 174 654.90 32.80 656.76 806.88 258.30 2,409.64 Nov 119 62 181 633.66 31.72 635.45 780.64 249.90 2,331.37 Dec 117 65 182 649.59 32.52 651.43 783.93 250.95 2,368.42 Jan 124 66 190 651.36 32.74 653.20 780.64 249.90 2,367.84 Feb 134 67 201 700.92 35.12 702.90 852.80 273.00 2,564.74 Mar 138 73 211 725.70 36.44 727.75 879.04 281.40 2,650.33 Apr i41 73 214 762.87 38.36 765.03 921.69 295.05 2,783.00 May 144 76 220 768.18 38.60 770.35 938.08 300.30 2,815.51 Jun 144 76 220 796.50 39.90 798.77 970.90 310.80 2,916.87 Totals 1522 795 2317 $8,019.87 $402.18 $8,042.58 $9,702.28 $3,105.90 $29,272.81 FY 00 Jul 120 63 183 614.19 30.81 615.93 744.57 238.35 2243.85 Aug 124 66 190 754.99 37.95 725.30 738.00 252.00 2508.24 Sept 130 75 205 600.33 30.29 576.72 498.15 170.10 1875.59 Oct 134 75 209 846.57 42.60 809.36 817.94 279.30 2795.77 Nov 137 83 220 893.38 44.89 854.32 836.39 285.60 2914.58 Dec 141 85 226 923.90 46.52 883.20 873.30 298.20 3025.12 Jan 144 89 233 932.03 46.81 891.48 879.45 300.30 3050.07 Feb 143 87 230 1174.20 59.16 1120.21 1196.17 408.45 3958.19 Mar 152 93 245 738.71 37.21 709.66 596.55 203.70 2285.83 Apr 151 90 241 995.12 50.02 952.08 931.72 318.15 3247.09 May 154 96 250 997.15 50.31 954.04 934.80 319.20 3255.50 Jun 158 95 253 1003.27 50.53 959.89 922.50 315.00 3251.19 Totals 1688 997 2685 $10,473.84 $527.10 $10,052.19 $9,969.54 $3,388.35 $34,411.02 UTILDIS00.XLS7/19/005:08 PM cc: Kevin O'Malley ~ ! 07-27-00 IP13 ,' ..~ ~'.) CI~ OF I0 WA CIT'Y 410 E. WASHINGTON ST. IOWA CITY, IOWA 52240-1826 (319) 356-5248 STEVEN NASBY FAX (319) 356-5009 Community Development Coordinator steven_nasby @ iowa-city. org CITY UTILITY NEWS Construction Update The City of Iowa City is continuously improving the water and sanitary sewer systems to benefit all users of those services. Your dollars are hard at work. The new water treatment facility is currently under construction at 2551 North Dubuque Street, north of 1-80 and southwest of the Iowa River. This state of the art water treatment facility will provide softened water to Iowa City residents and will allow continued compliance with drinking water standards. We are striving for a completion date of 2002. The City is constructing a South Wastewater (sewage) Plant treatment facility that will expand present capacity from 5 million gallons per day (mgd) to 10 mgd and add lab facilities and industrial treatment. Also, changes are being made to the North Wastewater Plant as a result of federal ammonia removal requirements. Notice of City Utility Water, Wastewater, Garbage, and Recycling Fee Rates Effective for Billings Mailed After August 1, 2000 Water Monthly Charge Minimum Monthly Charge Monthly Usage Rates Meter Size (inches) Rate Cubic Feet Rate 5/8 (residential size) $7.47 First 100/mo. min. monthly charge % $8.17 101-3,000/mo. $3.49/100 cu. ft. 1 $9.63 3,001 and over $2.51/100 cu. ft. 1% $19.21 2 $25.82 Single Purpose Meter Charges* 3 $47.72 First 100/mo. min. monthly charge 4 $83.24 Over 101/mo. $3.49/100 cu. ft. 6 $167.51 * Water usage only. There will be no minimum monthly charge for a single-purpose water meter from November to March for those months during which no water is used. Sewer Monthly Charge (based on total water consumption) Minimum Monthly Charge (includes the first 100 cu. ft. used) $6.84 , Each Additional 100 cu. ft. $3.35 Garbage and Recycling Garbage Recycling Monthly Fee per Unit $8.20 $2.80 (per single-family dwelling or each apartment up to four units) J City Utility Discount Program The City of Iowa City has a utility discount program to aid City utility customers in need of financial assistance. The actual discount for eligible customers is 60% of the water and wastewater minimums per month and 75% of the refuse and recycling monthly fees. For more information regarding the city utility discount program contact the Treasury Division at 356-5066. over please Water Meters The City supplies water only through City meters. Property owner/agents are responsible for lost or damaged meters. If a meter requires repair or replacement, the City will perform the required work and bill the owner/agent on the next City utility billing. No one is to set, remove, or repair meters except the City or its agents. The City's agents must be allowed access during reasonable hours for service and maintenance work. A single purpose water meter is any _water meter that measures water usage which does not discharge into the City's sanitary sewer system intended for uses such as outside gardening, watering of sod, and filling a swimming pool. No sewer charges are billed for the water consumption measured by this meter. A monthly bill is produced for the water service. During the months of November through March, if there is no consumption recorded on the meter, no bill will be presented. The owner pays a meter fee and all expenses associated with the installation of this water meter. Call the Water Division at 356-5160 or the Treasury Division at 356-5066 for additional information. Methods for Easy Payment Did you forget to mail your utility bill payment and time is short? Use one of the following convenient payment methods: 1. DRIVE-UP drop-box on the East side of the Civic Center. We collect these payments at 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. 2. WALK-UP drop-box in the main lobby of the Civic Center 3. USE YOUR MASTERCARD OR VISA CHARGE ACCOUNT. Call our office at 356-5066 to authorize this payment using one of these two credit cards at no additional fee. 4. SAVE all headaches of submitting payment for your utility bill on time. Join the satisfied customers participating in our automatic bank debit program, SurePay, and earn the monthly savings of $1.00 per billing. Yes, you receive a $1.00 discount with every monthly bill. Complete the form below and return it to the Treasury Division, 410 E. Washington St., Iowa City, IA 52240-1826. Phone: (319) 356-5072 ~ntreas/utilitynews8-00,doc .................................................... TEAR HERE .................................................... Utility Account #: Bank ACCOUNT #: Name on Utility Account: Name on Bank Account: Service Address: Bank Routing #: Customer's Telephone #: Bank Name: Mark One: Checking Savings I (we) authorize the City of Iowa City to initiate debit entries to my (our) account indicated above and for the financial institution to debit the same to such account. Name #1: Name #2: Signature #1: Signature #2: Date: [ OFFICE USE ONLY: Process date Effective date DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS SPECIAL PROJECTS ~ '~l" l l 7 WASTEWATER TREATMENT AND COLLECTION FACILITY Contract 3 - South Plant Improvements CITY COUNCIL REPORT Report Number: #l Contractor: Story Construction Company Report Date: July 27, 2000 300 South Bell Ave. Project Number: 3387.0 Ames, Iowa City oflowa City Administration and Inspection Staff: Engineering Consultant: Tim Randall, Special Projects Manager Stanley Consultants, Inc. A1 Richerson, Special Projects Inspector 225 Iowa Avenue Terry Simmons, Construction Inspector Muscatine, Iowa Date Construction Started: March 14, 2000 Approved Time Extensions (Days): 0 Contract Completion Date/Days: March 13, 2002 / 730 Revised Completion Date: N/A Days Elapsed: 135 Percent of Project Completed: 4.9 % Days Remaining: 595 Contract Price: $26,574.000.00 Percent of Time Used: 18 % Progress Payments to Date: $1,230,939.89 Summary of Construction Activities To Date: ~ Laboratory/Administration Building: Excavation work is complete. The concrete footings and concrete foundation walls are nearing completion. Placement of fill sand and concrete floor slab is anticipated next. ~ Maintenance Vehicle Storage Building: Excavation work is complete. The foundation reinforcing steel and the concrete footings are nearing completion. The start of work on the foundation walls and placement of fill sand is anticipated. } Addition to Sludge Processing Facility: Demolition of the existing entrance vestibule is complete. The excavation work is complete. The start of work on the footings and foundation walls is anticipated. South Wastewater Plant Contract 3 City Council Report # 1 Page 1 July 27, 2000 DEPARTN|F, NT OF PUBLIC WORKS - Eagineerillg Divisiotl Layout and placement ol: the amphitheater City of Iowa City MEMORANDUM TO: City Council FROM: City Clerk DATE: July 31, 2000 RE: Vacation I will be out of town from Thursday, August 3 through Monday, August 7. Julie has my itinerary. CC: Department Directors Office of the Civil-Juvenile Anne M. Lethey Janet M. Lyness Johnson County Attorney Johnson County Courthouse · 417 South Clinton Street · P.O, Box 2450 · Iowa City, IA 52244 Criminal Phone (319) 339-6100 · Fax (319) 339-6149 David V. Tiffany LiMa M Paulson Rivka Sorerisen COPY County Attorney Michael D. Rrennan Emily A, Colby Angela J. Boeke July 31, 2000 U. VictodaDominguez Child Support Carc~ A. Turner Steve Kanner 1-(8~) 229-9223 515 E. College St. if3 Iowa City, Iowa 52245 Dear Mr. Kanner: , This replies to your letter of June 23rd. The Chief's memo of June 6th is quite correct. It was my intention to pursue, before the City Council, civil penalties. Unfortunately, it has been the case that workload and staffing here have not allowed me to do that. I agree that civil penalties can be an effective tool. We are, as of today, adding a civil attorney to our staff and I'd be pleased to allocate time from that position. The step that needs to occur is a Council discussion with the manager and city attorney---which I would be happy to attend. I almost always need two to four weeks lead time for scheduling a meeting. I have had discussions over the past year or so with Assistant City Attorney/Lndy Matthews---including one quite recently. My understanding is that they are'preparing a report or discussion document to the Council. I do have some thoughts on civil penalty procedures, remain interested and believe that the time is now available if the Council wishes our participation. Sincerely, J.~pat~ri~ Johnson County Attorney ~Ernie Lehman Steve Atkins Eleanor Dilkes L. Graham Dameron Eileen Fisher Printed e,q recycled paper with soy ink.