HomeMy WebLinkAbout2000-09-19 Info Packet of 9/14 CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION PACKET
September 14, 2000
I SEPTEMBER 18 WORK SESSION ITEM
IP1 Memorandum from Housing and Inspection Services Director: Registration and
Inspection of Vacant/Abandoned Buildings
IP2 Letter from City Manager to Bettina Bourjaily: 300 McLean
IP3 Memorandum from Housing and Inspection Services Director: Vehicle Storage in
Single-Family Residential Zones
IP4 Memorandum from City Manager: Public Hearings - Council Work Session -
September 18
MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS
IP5 Memorandum from City Manager: Press Conference/Meeting Concerning First
Avenue Referendum
IP6 Memorandum from Planning and Community Development Assistant Director:
Proposed Extension of First Avenue; Traffic Projection Information Provided by the
Transportation Planning Division
IP7 Memorandum from City Manager: News Media Drop Slots - City Manager's Office
IP8 Letter from City Manager to David Dahlquist: Destination Park
IP9 Letter from Barbara Eckstein to City Manager: River Boat/Bus [City Manager
response included]
IPIO Letter from Amy Spencer to Mike Moran: Chlorination in Pools [Staff response
included]
IP11 Memorandum from Cable TV Administrator: Proposed Name Change of Government
Channel 4
IP12 Memorandum from Dianna Furman: Utility Discount Program Statistics - Fiscal Year
'99 Total, FY '00 and '01 Monthly
IP13 Minutes: July 17 Deer Management Committee
IP14 Minutes: July 31 Deer Management Committee
IP15 Memorandum from Community Development Coordinator: Housing and Community
Development Commission -- Tour
Agenda: Joint Meeting, J.C. Board of Supervisor, City 6f Iowa City, City of
Coralville, City of North L~berty, Iowa City Community School Board
Memorandum from Assistant City Attorney: Combating Underage Drinking
Broadcast
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM
~ 0~~
Date: September 1 ~.~
I
To: City Council
From: Doug . of FI ~. ervices
Boothroy,
Re: Registration and Inspectioq of Vacant/Abandoned B dings
fire, and housing inspection services can ensure these buildings are secure, maintained, safe, and don't
become a danger to the public. The health and safety issues associated with vacant buildings can be
prevented through early identification (registration) and proper maintenance.
The community has a number of existing buildings that have been vacant for longer than one year and
are in various states of disrepair. The condition of these buildings is a serious concern to neighborhoods
and the community because their lack of maintenance has resulted in deteriorated conditions that
endanger the public health and safety. Some of the problems neighbors have complained about are:
attractive nuisance; harborage for rodents and vermin; invitation to derelicts, vagrants, and criminals as a
temporary residence; invitation for dumping of garbage or rubbish; contributing to blight; and depressing
market values of surrounding properties. In general. deteriorated conditions of vacant buildings leave
neighbors or the public insecure in the use and enjoyment of their own property.
Currently, neither the Housing nor Dangerous Building code provides the means for early involvement
that would prevent these types of problems from developing and becoming a burden to the City and
neighbors. These codes don't address vacant buildings, are designed to react after a property becomes a
serious problem, and are enforced only on a complaint basis. The Dangerous Building code enforcement
process is difficult and time consuming (sometimes taking years). Also, this code is not intended to
function as an ongoing maintenance code to protect existing structures from deterioration. The Housing
code is a maintenance code but designed for occupied rental property and, therefore, does not address
conditions of vacant buildings unless a complaint is filed.
The proposed amendment addresses the concerns previously mentioned by requiring owners of vacant
buildings (i.e., vacant for longer than one year) to do the following:
1. Register the vacant building.
2. Allow annual housing code inspections of the interior and exterior of the premises.
3. Comply with the housing code as well as other city requirements including the weed ordinance
and snow and ice removal.
4. Disclose all pertinent ownership information including lien holders.
5. Designate an agent to act on the behalf of out of town property owners to accept legal processes,
authorize repairs as required, and be available in case of an emergency.
6. Pay an annual fee reasonably related to the administrative cost of the city.
The goal of the proposed amendment is to maintain the quality of our community and protect the public
through identification and annual code inspections of vacant buildings, thereby preventing serious and
expensive problems from developing.
Thank you for your consideration of this matter.
Hisadm~rnemos\vacantbldg.doc
09-14-00
IP2
September 7, 2000
Ms. Bettina Boudaily
410 Beldon Avenue
Iowa City, IA 52246-3700
Dear Ms. Boudaily:
This' note is to follow-up on your recent correspondence. It is my
understanding staff will be proposing an ordinance amendment to address
vacant houses. This ordinance should be before Council by the end of
September or early October.
If you have specific questions about the ordinance amendments and how
they might pertain to the property at 300 McLean, please contact our
Housing and Inspection Services Director at 356-5121.
Sincerely yours,
City Manager
cc: City Council
Doug Boothroy
410 EAST WASHINGTON STREET * IO'Vlt'A CITY, IOWA 52240-1826 * (319) 356-5000 , FAX (319) 356-5009
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM
Date: September 14, . ,~%
T~o ..... ~,~~' ! ---,
m. u and InspectIon
: - . . ;%, _; · . .
motor vehicles on a single-family lot as a public nuisance.
Numerous complaints have been received by the City concerning the number of operable
motor vehicles being stored outside in single-family neighborhoods. The issue being raised
is when too many motor vehicles are stored outside on a single-family lot it creates a
"vehicle storage lot" which is a commercial-like activity and incompatible with a residential
neighborhood.
Neighbors have complained that excessive vehicle storage negatively impacts the character
of the neighborhood, contributes to blight, impacts property values and interferes with
their right to peaceful enjoyment and use of their property. Vehicle parking and storage
areas are not intended to be primary activities in any residential areas and, therefore,
should constitute no more than a minimal intrusion.
The proposed amendment would address this issue by defining exterior parking, storing or
keeping of more than four motor vehicles as a nuisance. The total number of motor
vehicles allowed to be stored outside on a lot may exceed four by the number of licensed
drivers who reside at the residence and whose driver's license is the same as the residents.
This code amendment would not apply to temporary parking (e.g., a continuous period not
to exceed 24 hours) for temporary repairs, guests, etc.
Thank you for consideration of this matter.
tp3-1db.doc
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM
TO: City Council
FROM: City Manager
DATE: June 16, 2000
RE: Public Hearings - Council Work Session - September 18
Council Members expressed interest in having an informal discussion about
the process of the conduct of public hearings as well as the timing of a
vote subject to public hearings. We have placed the matter on your agenda
for discussion at the work session the evening of September 18. Most of
you are familiar with the process of public hearings, and the legal
requirements for such public hearings.
City of Iowa City
09-14-00
MEMORANDUM '",
Date: September 14, 2000
To: City Council
From: City Manager
Re: Press Conference/Meeting Concerning First Avenue Referendum
As you mentioned at the Council meeting of September 12, a request has been
received for a press conference or meeting to present information concerning the
extension of First Avenue. The nature and extent of the information to be
presented was not discussed.
As I am you are aware, there is a variety of information and information sources
available with respect to this issue. This information is used by the interest
groups to best describe their position. We discussed the proposed press
conference and the related political, ethical, and legal issues which might be
pertinent. We believe it is not in the City's best interest to conduct a meeting of
this nature. Clearly, the various sides will attend. I am uncomfortable placing the
staff in the position of being quoted, and/or having information attributed to them
by a variety of sources; having the information interpreted by a variety of news
media and then subjected to a public response made up of just as many if not
more opinions. Such is the nature of our community.
We have provided information to any individual that requests information as it
relates to the First Avenue project. We have responded to requests for
interpretation and analysis. The information often appears in some form or shape
that is contrary to the original content. Such is the nature of political campaigns.
We are further concerned the meeting would place the staff in a position of
advocating an issue and thereby be contrary to State election laws. City
departments have given recommendations concerning the First Avenue project.
Council Members have commented to the contrary concerning these
recommendations. If the people present in the audience at such a meeting were
to question a department director concerning their position, it clearly places that
depai'tment director in the position of advocating a project. Public funds are not to
be expended for advocacy.
We will continue to rely on the distribution of information requested by various
parties, as we have in the past.
Page 2
Press Conference/Meeting Concerning First Avenue Referendum
You Will note in your Council packet a response by the Department of Planning and
Community Development concerning the traffic projections mentioned at a recent
City Council meeting discussion. I will be candid with you in that for the most part,
the issue of First Avenue is no longer one of accurate technical information but one
of passion and posturing. Members of the City staff, as well as my office, are
contacted daily by individuals on both sides of the First Avenue extension issue.
This is not unusual particularly with the serious "campaigning" now underway. We
are of the opinion that the 20,000 per day vehicle traffic projection is an example of
that campaigning. To our knowledge the 20,000 vehicle per day has never been
reported to be an accurate projection of traffic volume, and I encourage you to read
carefully the memo prepared by the Assistant Director of Planning and Community
Development.
Questions of how much traffic is too much, or will children going to school be safe
are not issues satisfactorily or easily answered by a purely technical evaluation.
They involve opinion and emotion. Traffic collision information we have provided
has been used by both sides of this issue to show that First Avenue is both safe
and unsafe. Information prepared by others is often attributed to the City and is
purported to be factual when, upon review, we find it to be opinion and conjecture.
We are not asked how the information presented by others will be used. We
respect the right of any individual in the community to express what they think and
are reluctant to get into refuting or supporting anyone's position or information.
We will continue to rely on the distribution of information to others as they have
requested in the past. We urge the Council not to have a press conference and/or
meeting concerning this issue.
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM '
Date: September 14, 2000
To: City Manager
From: Jeff Davidson, Assistant Director, Department of Planning and Community Development ~
Re: Proposed extension of First Avenue; traffic projection information provided by the
Transportation Planning Division
In December 1998, the JCCOG Transportation Planning Division provided information to the Iowa
City Planning and Zoning Commission detailing our traffic projections on northeast Iowa City arterial
streets under several street extension scenarios. This estimate of traffic volumes included the
currently unbuilt portion of First Avenue. We provided the following estimates of First Avenue traffic
volume:
· Current traffic volume: 0 (doesn't exist)
· Existing traffic volume if Captain Irish Parkway and First Avenue extended: 9,986
· 10 year future traffic volume if Captain Irish Parkway and First Avenue extended: 12,041
These numbers should not be added to traffic volumes further south on First Avenue; they include
existing First Avenue traffic plus the 3,000 - 4,000 vehicles we estimate will be diverted from North
Dodge Street to First Avenue. There have been questions asked about a figure of 20,000 vehicles
per day projected traffic volume for First Avenue. This has at no time been a valid traffic projection
provided by the Transportation Planning Division, and it remains our opinion that it is not a valid
traffic projection.
In 1998 when our analysis was being prepared for the Planning and Zoning Commission, an
individual associated with the anti-First Avenue extension movement was provided raw data from
our arterial street traffic analysis computer model for various links in the street system. We clearly
advised the individual that this was raw data which did not represent accurate traffic projections. The
individual said he understood this. The raw model data reflected several erroneous assumptions
which resulted in such inaccuracies as a model-generated link volume of 20,000 where it could not
be substantiated.
This type of error occurs in many places throughout the traffic analysis model, and is a result of a
machine attempting to take a series of mathematical data inputs and predict human behavior.
Anyone who uses traffic analysis models will tell you that part of using them is going through a
process of modifying data inputs so that the results make sense. There are consultants who make a
living manipulating traffic analysis models to say whatever their clients want, and I assure you that it
is a simple matter to manipulate our traffic analysis model so that the projected traffic volume for
First Avenue is 300 vehicles per day or 30,000 vehicles per day. The 9,986 and 12,041 figures that I
have provided are what we consider to be our most accurate traffic projections for First Avenue. You
have heard me emphasize repeatedly that the model does not have a high level of precision in
making traffic projections. The model should only be used in making broad generalizations about
patterns of traffic movement.
We have provided information to the City Council and the public containing our best estimates of
traffic projections, and persons are welcome to accept, reinterpret or reject those projections.
cc: Karin Franklin
ppdadm\mem\trafproj ,doc
City of Iowa City iP7
MEMORANDUM
TO: City Council
FROM: City Manager
DATE: September 14, 2000
RE: News Media Drop Slots - City Manager's Office
As most of you are aware, we have drop slots for the area media in my
office. Recently, Council Members have been placing various documents
that they wish the media to read in these drop slots. We then receive
requests from the news media as to the nature of the document, who sent
it, etc. Please make it a point when you place information in the media
drop slot that you place your name on the document. Something as simple
as an article you might like the media to read does generate questions we
are unable to answer, and we cannot refer the news reporter to a contact
person. By placing your name on the document, it will direct the media to
you for response and any other information/attention you might be
interested in securing. These news drop slots are intended for City
business.
Thank you.
September 6, 2000
David L. Dahlquist
Shive Hattery
1601 48th Street, Suite 200
West Des Moines, IA 50266-6748
RE: DNR Destination Park Concept
Dear Mr. Dahlquist:
Sorry I was unable to meet with you on your recent visit to the Iowa City area. Unfortunately, I
was out of town. However, Rose Rennekamp and Wendy Ford have relayed to me their
conversation with you. On behalf of the City of Iowa City and the Iowa City area community, I
would like to express our support for the creation of a destination park at MacBride State Park.
The recreational activities, both passive and active, at MacBride State Park and the adjoining
Coralville Lake provide an excellent opportunity for a destination park. As the city manager of a
major urban center located very near MacBride State Park, I would like to make sure you
consider the excellent recreational and cultural activities in close proximity to MacBride. These
activities complement the natural environment of MacBride and would provide visitors to the
destination park with additional activities to enjoy during their visit.
The University of Iowa provides many exciting opportunities for visitors through the many
cultural activities at Hancher Auditorium and the many Big Ten sporting events. In addition to
the University events, the Iowa City area offers many additional cultural and recreational
activities. The community has numerous live music venues, including free weekly summer
concerts on Friday and Saturday nights on the downtown pedestrian mall, and many local
theater companies offering theatrical productions all year long. Recreational activities abound in
our local parks, on our local trail systems, and on area golf courses. In addition to recreational
and cultural activities, many shopping experiences await visitors to the area. From the new
Coral Ridge Mall to the vibrant and eclectic downtown Iowa City, there is a shopping opportunity
to please nearly any type of shopper.
And do not forget the many cultural and recreational activities offered by our sister city to the
north, Cedar Rapids. Recreational activities include such varied items as hockey games at a
new ice rink, auto racing, and a soon to be new baseball stadium for minor league baseball
games. And when the Iowa Child Project becomes a reality, a unique educational and
recreational activity will be provided that will be unmatched anywhere in the country.
410 EAST WASHINGTON STREET · IOWA CITY, IOWA 52240-1826 · (319) 356-5000 · FAX (319t 356-5009
So in addition to the natural beauty of MacBride State Park and the recreational opportunities it
provides, I hope you consider the success of any destination park will also be dependent upon
the other types of activities an area has to offer the visitors to the destination park. We believe
that MacBride State Park and the Iowa City/Cedar Rapids area has what it takes to make a
destination park successful.
Sincerely,
City Manager
Cc: City Council
Wendy Ford
Rose Rennekamp
u:\~les\prspct\desintation park.doc
1020 Church Street ~ ~ [~ ~ [I ~ ~ i
Iowa City, IA 52245
20 July 2000 . JUL 2 4 2000
CITY MANA ER'S liEFig[
Steve Atkins
City Manager
Iowa City, IA 52240
Dear Mr. Atkins:
For some time I have been thinking about the virtues of having a river boat/bus running between
the two dams on the Iowa River. As I read of other cooperative ventures including the university,
Iowa City, and Coralville, and read of some city council members' objections to a bridge (I do
think a pedestrian bridge would be nice.) near the new Peninsula development, I keep hoping to
see discussion of a river-based addition to public transport. Having thought about this a long
while, I have stored a list of advantages (and can imagine some objections that I think are
answerable). For example, if the boats were large enough, people could even ride with
bicycles--thus encouraging their use instead of cars--and the landings could link to bus routes of
Iowa City, Cambus, and Coralville.
I write in hopes that city planners, public officials, and university administrators do discuss this
alternative. I have written the university's planner, Larry Wilson, about this idea and asked his
advice in who I might write or talk to at the university. (I am a faculty member. We, in fact, met
in my capacity as a reviewer of Doug True's office.) Since I am an Iowa Citian, I have not written
anyone in Coralville. If there is some history of discussion of this issue in Iowa City, I would be
grateful to know of it.
Sincerely yours,
Barbara Eckstein
September q q, 2000
Barbara Eckstein
1020 Church Street
Iowa City IA 52245
Dear Barbara:
Thank you for your letter of July 20. There does not seem to be any history of discussion of a ferry
as you suggest, at least in recent times. In the 19th century, there was a ferry near the power dam
location. Foster Road roughly follows the historic alignment of the road which led to the ferry.
As we have looked at development of this area of Iowa City more recently, the emphasis has been on
creating neighborhoods and on pedestrian and bicycle access. A plan from the 1970s which showed
an arterial street bridging the river at 5th Street in Coralville was abandoned as a concept in the 80s
due to the cost of the bridge. This enabled us to look at the Peninsula in a different light in terms of
how it could be developed, resulting in the Peninsula Plan. No vehicular access for the public is
planned for the lower plateau of the Peninsula. This lower floodplain will be a natural park with
pedestrian and bicycle access via a pedestrian bridge on the Iowa River Power Dam and trails which
come from the upper peninsula via Foster Road.
The vacant land north of Foster Road is owned by a private developer and is defined by wetlands and
a limestone cliff. This area also will be inaccessible to vehicular traffic but is likely to have a trail
system which will connect with planned trails north of the interstate on the City's water plant site.
Since we do not plan vehicular access to the river from the Peninsula or the property along the river
to the north, there will be no opportunity for transit service to connect with any riverboat. We are,
however, stressing pedestrian and bicycle access.
In arriving at this position, we have considered the fact that there are three options for vehicular
connections in this area between Iowa City and Coralville either existing or planned - Highway 6,
1-80 and Oakdale Boulevard. Given the expense of these corridors it does not seem prudent to
pursue the expense of a fourth option.
If you wish to pursue a public discussion of your proposal, you are certainly free to do so. I did want to
gather some history as well as offer a perspective of why things are as they are to date.
Sincerely,
City Manager
rngrMtrs~eckstein .doc
410 EAST WASHINGTON STREET · IOWA CITY, IOWA 52240-1826 · (319) 356-5000 · FAX (319) 356-5009
Amy L. Spencer
2945 Newport RD. NE.
Iowa City, Iowa
August 28, 2000
Mr. Mike Moran
Director
Recreation Department
Iowa City, Iowa
Dear Mr. Moran,
My daughter, Kelsey, swims for the City High swim team. I contacted her coach,
Mr. Branstetter, after learning that the girls on the swim team, including my
daughter, were experiencing serious coughing spells at practice. 1 was told that
this problem is directly related to the chlorination, or rather the lack of
ventilation, in the chlorination process. I was also informed that this has been an
ongoing problem, which has been affecting swimmers at this pool for years. I
feel that this is a very serious situation that is being overlooked. Not only is this
afflicting the City High swimmers, but it impacts the public swimmers who use the
pool as well. My daughter suffers from asthma, so this situation becomes
extremely serious. I don't feel that my daughter should be forced to quit the
swim team and give up on a sport she loves, simply because of poor ventilation
at the pool. I hope that you will look into this problem and I anticipate hearing
back from you.
Sincerely,
Amy L. Spencer
cc Iowa City City Counsel
cc City High Coach Branstarter
CITY OF I0 WA CITY
PARKS & RECREATION
DEPARTMENT
September 1, 2000
Amy Spencer
2945 Newport Rd. N.E.
Iowa City, IA 52240
Dear Ms. Spencer:
Thank you for your note of August 28, 2000. I would like to address your concerns as I
feel you have been given quite a bit of misinformation. The pool comes under the State
Health Department rules and regulations and we are inspected annually. We have to
monitor our water chemistry every hour we are open and we don't believe it to be a
chlorination problem. I only first became aware of this concern at the last Parks and
Recreation Commission meeting three weeks ago. I have not received any complaints,
concerns, etc., prior to that time.
Currently we are working with the building architect to verify all ventilation systems are
in proper running order. Then a State Hygienist will be coming to take air samples and
report findings. Ifa problem is discovered, we will most certainly take appropriate action.
When I find out anything I will be happy to share information with you.
Sincerely,
Michael E. Moran, CLP
Superintendent of Recreation
cc: Terry Trueblood, Director
Parks & Recreation
220 SOUTFI GILBERT STREET ANAnON~GOU>mn~.
IOWA CITY IOWA 52240-1632 ,,,,,, ' .-.~.. ,.:: ".PHONE (319)356-5100
-
~ .-2,'"'; F*A~C (319)356-5487
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM '
Date: September 7, 2000
To: City Council Members
From: Drew Shafferj.~
Re: Proposed Name Change of Government Channel 4
At its meeting on July 24, 2000, the Iowa City Telecommunications Commission (ICTC) voted in
favor of changing the name of Government Channel 4 to the City Channel. If you have any
concerns about this please let me know and we can address them at an upcoming Council work
session. If you are in concurrence, we'll move ahead with the name change.
A majority of the ICTC had no problem with the name change.
tp3-1ds.doc
Date: 1 -Sep-00
To: City Manager and City Council
From: Dianna Furman
Subj: Utility Discount Program Statistics - Fiscal Year' 99 Total, FY' 00 and ' 01 Monthly
Water Sewer
Refuse Total Accounts
Recyling Water Sewer on Discount Sewer Refuse Recycling
Month Discounts Discounts Program Water Discount Tax Discount Discount Discount Discount Total Discounts
FY99
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
FY 01
Jul 120 61 181' $856.74 $43.19 $819.13 $876.37 $299.25 $2,894.68
Aug 124 70 194 $855.68 $42.77 $779.03 $765.67 $261.45 $2,704.60
Totals 244 131 194 1,712.42 85.96 1,598.16 1,642.04 560.70 2,894.68
cc: Kevin O'Malley
*Renewals for discount program completed July 2000
UTILDIS00.XLS9/1/008:37 AM
09-14-00
MINUTES FINAL IP13
DEER MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING "
JULY 17,. 2000
LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM
MEMBERS PRESENT: Pat Farrant, Harold Goff, Jan Ashman, Doug Jones, Nancy
Menning, Paul Emerson, Judy Rhodes, Steve Hendrix, Linda
Dykstra
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Lisa Mollenhauer, Jeff Davidson
STAFF ABSENT: Misha Goodman, Ron Fort
OTHERS: Leslie Hall, Florence Boos, Lory Van Allen, William Boos, Joyce
McKusick, Heather Woodward (IC Press-Citizen), Tim Thompson
(DNR)
CALL TO ORDER
Chairperson Farrant called the meeting to order at 6:30PM.
SPEED LIMITS AND SIGNS
Jeff Davidson, Acting Traffic Engineer, spoke on how speed limits are determined.
Jones inquired about "the effect of speed limits on how fast people go." Davidson stated there is
unfortunately the mistaken impression by many people that the posted speed limit governs how
fast people go. Most people go at the speed that they feel comfortable traveling, depending on
conditions. Engineers have determined, based on statistical analysis, what is termed the 85th
percentlie speed; the speed that 85% of the drivers are traveling. All state routes are based on
the 85th percentlie speed. Davidson indicated that simply posting lower speed limits alone will
not get people to slow down. Constant enforcement is necessary; however, Iowa City does not
have personnel resources to provide this service on all routes.
Davidson noted that, according to Iowa Code, it is possible to have a variation to the regulated
speeds in some neighborhoods when the City Council adopts a lower speed by ordinance.
Engineers would say that this action would have very little effect on how fast drivers go.
Menning inquired about the posted speed on North Dubuque Street. Davidson responded that it
is posted at 35 mph. Traveling speed near the interstate is 46 mph and 44 mph closer to town.
Menning noted that her last community used a trailer that posted speeds as drivers passed. It
was very.effective. Davidson said that Iowa City has one. They have found that once people find
that there is not a police officer in the area. they do not necessary slow down. In fact, some
people will test the sign by speeding up.
Ashman inquired about warning signs. Davidson said that initially when signs appear, people
really notice them; they soon become part of the scenery.
Mollenhauer asked if the Committee made the recommendation could the council change the
speed on north Dodge Street or Dubuque Street. Davidson replied that Dodge Street is a state
route and it could not be changed; however Dubuque Street could be changed.
Deer Management Committee Meeting Minutes
July 17, 2000
Page 2
William Boos spoke and stated that he lived in Germany for a couple of years. There are no
speed limits on the autobahn. He said if an 85th percentlie speed was applied to the autobahn it
would have to be posted at 105-110 mph. He inquired if this is done; is it really the sensible
thing to do to have people left to their own devices?
Hendrix commented that perhaps the Committee should work to educate people of locations
where there are high vehicle-deer accident incidents. Emphasizing that people should slow
down may be the route to go.
Farrant inquired about frequently changing signs to keep peoples' attention. Davidson said that
the city is restricted somewhat by federal regulations regarding standardized signage.
Emerson inquired about the deer reflectors. He said that nobody takes care of the signs.
Mollenhauer noted that the city manager has now authorized resources for maintenance of
these signs.
Davidson noted City staff are working with Iowa DOT on a reconstruction plan for Dodge Street
to Governor Street; both to be reconstructed around 2005. Safety issues relating to deer are
being addressed.
NON-LETHAL PROGRAM TOOLS
Ashman spoke about the brochure. She said it will be presented to the Committee at a later
date in a more finished form.
Farrant noted that the first listening session is scheduled for July 26th at Parkview Evangelical
Church. It will be recorded and televised on the public television channel.
Menning-gave some ideas of how she envisioned the listening session format. The community
has to live with the deer and the residents need to express their views.
Members agreed there needed to be structure to the sessions. Ashman said she really liked the
idea of the shared responsibility by including the community in this process in a more direct
way.
Goff inquired about how the meeting is to be publicized. Mollenhauer said a display adwill be
placed in the three papers, something on the sequencer and the website. Menning volunteered
to distribute flyers in the peninsula area announcing the meeting.
Jones said that he felt that it was clear that there would need to be meetings in other areas of
the city. Members agreed to target others sections of the city.
Mollenhauer noted that a community comment board will be added to the website. This will
allow comments to be access by anyone with internet service.
Ashman noted a book entitled A Country So Full Of Game--The Story of Wildlife in Iowa by
James Dinsmore. It covers Iowa wildlife over one and a half centuries. Jones agreed it is an
excellent book. Farrant also noted a booklet related to critter crossings. She said it was worth
looking at. Jones noted a book entitled Gardening in Deer Country.
Farrant reminded the members that a plan needs to be developed for the coming year.
She asked members to read last year's plan.
Deer Management Committee Meeting Minutes
July 17, 2000
Page 3
PUBLIC COMMENT
Florence Boos inquired about the public hearing. Mollenhauer said it was to be set - but would
be no earlier than September 5% Council may be amending their schedule. Boos commented
on the seasonal signs and felt they were very good. She said she appreciated the comments
regarding speed limit signs.
William Boos spoke on traffic. He said that people do ignore traffic signs. This does not mean
that they do not have an effect. He liked the flip signs.
Lory Van Allen said she was encouraged to hear the various options discussed for deer
management. People do need to understand that there are other options to deer management
than sharp shooting. She suggested that the population on the peninsula is more fragile
because she does not believe they do travel as has been indicated. She said they might be the
targeted population with the new development. Emerson said a deer would not travel outside of
a four-mile radius from where they are born unless they are threatened.
Joyce McKusick said she lived on Park Road. Her residence is on the river, and the deer cross
the river at will. She said she had lost a friend to a deer-vehicle accident fifteen years ago.
Farrant reviewed the nonlethal projects the committee has taken on. The no-feed campaign will
be discussed at future meetings. Mollenhauer said staff would be working on a defensive driving
video throughout the fall.
ADJOURNMENT
Ashman moved to adjourn the meeting with a second by Jones. The meeting adjourned at
8:08 P.M.
Minutes submitted by Le Ann Dunne-Tyson.
mgrlminldeerT-17-O0.doc
DEER MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING
JULY 31, 2000
LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM
MEMBERS PRESENT: Pat Farrant, Harold Goff, Jan Ashman, Doug Jones, Nancy
Menning, Paul Emerson, Judy Rhodes
MEMBERS ABSENT: Steve Hendrix, Linda Dykstra
STAFF PRESENT: Lisa Mollenhauer, Ron Fort
STAFF ABSENT: Misha Goodman
OTHERS: Leslie Hall, Florence Boos, Lory Van Allen, William Boos, Ray
Washburn, Jamie Washburn, Zack Kucharski (IC Gazette),
Jennifer Dyke (IC Press-Citizen)
CALL TO ORDER
Chairperson Farrant called the meeting to order at 6:35PM.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM JULY 5, 2000, MEETING
Jones moved to approve the minutes with a second by Ashman. The minutes were approved on
a 7-0 vote.
LISTENING SESSION
Farrant noted that the first listening session took place. Menning commented it appeared
participants felt it was good to have an opportunity to express themselves. Many perceptions
and situations were brought out. Opposing views were allowed to be expressed by the
participants. Rhodes felt that it was a very open session with good discussion. Jones noted that
two farmers were in attendance who have crop damage problems. An idea was brought up
where the male and female deer are separated during the mating session in the Wisconsin
Dells. Jones commented that it was somewhat of a wild scheme, yet it could work. He said he
was not sure how the DNR would react to such an idea.
Menning stated that she has had personal frustration with people who have the "just kill them"
attitude; however, she felt that none of the people started at this point. It seems to reflect the
level of frustration that has built up. Some people are getting to a fairly desperate point. Jones
said that it puts into a clearer light some of the action that took place last year around town.
Rhodes concurred with these thoughts. She felt it became a serious personal issue.
Rhodes noted another issue that was brought up. Developers have been required to put in
vegetation, and the deer are eating it up. The committee agreed that this issue needs to be
addressed. Rhodes also noted that the majority of the people who attended the meeting were of
an older generation. Farrant commented that she was surprised at the level of rage among the
residents.
The committee agreed to another listening session - next to be on the east side of town
Goff said that in terms of selling the sessions as "living with deer" he said that community
members might not want to attend as they might not want hear reasons that they should live
Deer Management Committee Meeting Minutes
July 31, 2000
Page 2
with the deer. It was agreed to change the title of the listening sessions to encourage a wider
participation.
NON-LETHAL TOOLS
Jones noted that the William and Florence Boos had written a note regarding fences. He said
that the current code is clearly oriented towards the small residential property. He suggested
that the committee needs to come up with a way to use electric and high fences in a reasonable
manner within the city. Mollenhauer noted that the eight-foot fence is necessary for deer and as
far as she knew requests for such fences have not been turned down for back yards. The
committee agreed that discussing the options with Housing Inspection Services would be a
good idea. The committee generally agreed they would like to see a loosening of fence code.
Menning commented that this would lessen deer habitat in town. Rhodes said there are a
significant number of people on the north side who enjoy the deer. Mollenhauer then suggested
someone from the Planning Department come to a meeting to discuss the Comprehensive
Development Plan. The committee agreed this was a good idea. Jones commented that it was
only about fifteen years ago that the Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission pushed through
a natural area overlay on the zoning. This was a major victory, but only focused on certain
areas. He felt that process would be something that could be discussed.
Mollenhauer brought up the flip sign idea. One idea was to have the sign fold down when traffic
would not be high with deer crossing. The other option would be to have a sign that would flip
up at high deer presence times. Jones commented a simple option would be a good idea.
Rhodes inquired if there had been any studies done that correlate the speed of drivers with the
incidence of deer-vehicle collisions. Her thought was if there has been no study to show that
reduced speeds directly correlated with reduced accidents, then perhaps the driver needs to be
looking harder for the deer. Goff then said that he would like to see a report on the driver speed
related to deer accidents. He pointed out that if speed is the issue then all of the accidents
should be on the freeway; rather than in town. Rhodes wants signage to encourage people to
slow down and look for deer. Fort said that no sign would accomplish that. It would be
impossible to get non-responsible drivers to be attentive until their driver's license is taken
away. Jones said that if 5% of the drivers would slow down, it would be worth it. The committee
agreed to look into signage. Florence and William Boos agreed to look into any studies that
have been done on accidents related to animals.
DEER MANAGEMENT PLAN
Staff has been updating facts and figures. Farrant opened the floor to any suggested updated
information. Jones suggested the history of the last two years needs to be updated. The
committee agreed and would forward suggestions to Farrant for revisions. It was agreed that the
DNR would provide population modeling for the plan. The committee requested that the DNR
provide statistics and information on how the issue was dealt with from other Iowa communities.
It was also agreed that Farrant would contact various cities that have dealt with deer issues.
OTHER BUSINESS
Menning asked about comments from committee members on the web site comment board.
The committee agreed that it should be personal comments, but not to dominate the board.
Deer Management Committee Meeting Minutes
July 31, 2000
Page 3
PUBLIC COMMENT
William Boos inquired about the listening session. Mollenhauer said that it would hopefully be
within the next ten days.
Florence Boos thanked staff for putting up the web site. She noted that the comments were
running in favor of non-lethal methods. She suggested putting the issue to vote at some time.
She encouraged pursuing the option of fencing. She said it appeared there was a major
economic investment to gardening in some cases; so fencing would be an important option.
Ray WasHburn commented he heard a lot of discussion about people solutions. He did not hear
much about the other solutions related to the deer. He said that tranquilization has not been a
good option as per the DNR. He did suggest tranquilizing and moving the deer. It would not be
invasive to the neighbors. He said that the deer could be taken into private possession or
moved to an area that does not have large deer populations. He said that he did not feel
contraception was a workable idea.
He suggested the sale of the deer for hobbyists or that they could be moved to nature
preserves. They could also be given to citizens. It all depends on what the DNR allows. He
encouraged the committee to consider tranquilizing as an option.
Jamie Washburn said he has been hired to move deer from highly populated private property.
He said last year he moved around 150 deer and lost maybe four. He said that he could move
20-25 per day. They have been transported considerable distances. People will buy them for
$10-15K each.
ADJOURNMENT
Ashman moved to adjourn the meeting with a second by Menning. The meeting adjourned at
8:35 P.M.
Minutes submitted by Le Ann Dunne-Tyson.
mgrlminldeerT-31-OO. doc
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM
DATE: September 14, 2000
TO: City Council and City Manager
FROM: Steve Nasby, Community Development Coordinator ~Vl
RE: Housing and Community Development Commission -- Tour
The Housing and Community Development Commission (HCDC) has planned a tour of
community development projects for September 21st. We will be meeting in the east
parking lot (between the Civic Center and New Pi) at approximately 6:05 p.m.
The tour will include the following stops:
HACAP- Trans/t/ona/ Hous/ng (912 Benton Dr/ve)
kl///er-Orchard Ne/ghborhood- Park Land and Hous/ng Rehab///tat/on
South Pointe - Homeownersh/p Projects (GICHF and ICHA)
Regency He/ghts - New Sen/or Renta/ Un/ts (1060 Scott Park Dr/re)
SaNat/on Army- Fac///ty Rehab/l/tat/on (1116 G//bert Court)
Carole Conner (HACAP site) and Captain Deon Oliver (Salvation Army site) will give brief
presentations on two of these projects. In addition to the scheduled stops, several
other projects will be pointed out while we are traveling between destinations.
Transportation by City bus has been arranged for this tour. Seating remains available
for anyone wishing to join the tour.
If you are interested in joining the HCDC please let Marian Karr know. Questions about
the tour or the projects may be directed to me at 356-5248 or by e-mail at
Steven_ Nasby@iowa-city. org
SEP--1~--00 09:~5 AM CITYHORTHLI~ERTY ~19626~28e P.02
AGENDA
Joint Meeting
Johnson County Board of Supervisors
City of Iowa City
City of Coralville
City of North Liberty
Iowa City Community School Board
Wednesday, September 20, 2000
Penn School
North Liberty Family Resource Center
4:00 PM
1. Tour of North Liberty Family Resource Center facilities.
Move to North Liberty Community Center, Meeting Room C.
Call to order.
Introductions.
2. Discussion of Resource/Community Centers.
3. New PEPL and TIF legislation.
4. Alcohol issues.
5. Pat White: tobacco presentation on enforcement of sales to minors.
6. Discussion of Sioux Avenue.
7. Update on proposed jail bond issue.
Adjourn.
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM
Date: September 18, 2000
To: City Council
From: Andy Matthews, Assistant City Attomey ~t,,d,t]
Re: Combating Underage Drinking Broadcast - Sept.22, 2000
Attached is a copy of a brochure for a broadcast to be presented on Friday, September
22"d, at the U of I Student Union, Illinois Room, from 12:30-2:30 PM. The presentation,
"Combating Underage Drinking", is being presented by the US Department of Justice,
Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, to a national audience on that
date.
Julie Phye, who has being working with the Stepping Up Program, has made
arrangements for the broadcast to be shown at the Union's Illinois Room, for anyone
interested in the subject matter. There is no fee or charge associated with the program,
which is targeted to retailers, law enforcement, community leaders, school administrators,
youth service providers, and local, state and federal policymakers.
I will be attending, and of course, council members can attend. I would remind council
members that if there will be a quorum of council members attending, that there are open
meeting requirements that could come into play.
If you have any questions, do not hesitate to call me.
cc: Steve Atkins, City Manager
Dale Helling, Assistant City Manager
Eleanor Dilkes, City Attomey
Marian Karr, City Clerk
SITE REGISTRATION FORM - .~ .... ...."'7. '- ....... --. ·: Please JOin Us For:,
'o m~ster, complete ~is fo~ and mail or fax it to the address or , ~ ){2. ~: '
ax number below. All registration forms must be received by ~, ' "'; ' ~'[0l~:';:' · ' ' 2':':; ' ' USDepartaent of'Justice':
,e~tember 15, 2000, to be assured of receiving a packet of 5 ~ '!-'.~: . . , .. :,; '~." ".: )' ' ~'f~ce of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention
flotation and materials for duplication. Later registrations will be ~ ~ B Z~H~$ON~~, h~OiNff ..: .... = .... '.- :' '
ccepted wi~ ~'e ~den~naing that .only the satellite coordinates
nd a agen~ will ~ faxed. Materials will also be made available on ~. ~ ~ "' ' " ....*:': ' .....=' - -
" ..... " 'Underage
~am~ -"
- ~ . . .... -
~ddres~ ' ,, '. ;'
State Zip
Email Address: ~.;~. "~'. ".-. :, - :' ' .... -' ) . .7, ','.' .,.,:: . "; · ,. '
Viewing Location:
Viewing by Satellite Online , ' ~'o~
NOTE:' ,All sites registering are accepted. You will receive ~'~
tdditional info~ation and materials if you register by September ~ ~s O
15, 2000. Site'coordi'nators will be required to duplicate materials
· br local paaicipants.
Please respond by September 15; 2000 to: ~ .- m m
ATTN: Jenny McWilliams ~ > ~ Friday, September 22, 2000
301 Perkins Building ~ ~ ~ z 1:30-~30, PM EDT
521 Lancaster Avenue
~ ' o 2:30
~ Richmond, KY 40475-3102 ~
Phon~: Fax: ~' ~ ~'.' 0 .
(o ~ ~ ~ . 11:30-1:3~
606-622-6671 606-622-4397 ~ o .
.-. ~'~ ~ ~ -
~ 'S .~ ~ ~ ~ z 10:30-12:30 PM PDT
Email: ~ ~ ~ ~ m ~ ' ~ - Pwduced by the Office of Juvenile Justice and
~ Delinquen~ P~vention and the Jugnile J~tice
Ple~'se" check out our website aDer September 9 at ~ E ~ 2-'~ ~ . .'. :..' . .. ' TelecommunicationsAssistancePmject
(Grant ~ 98-MU-MU-O005)
"www./uvenilenet.org" for a daily updated listing of
c'omOattn u naerage.ortn Ktn g
Registration is fred If you are interested. in
coordinating and facilitating a downlink site in
your Community, please complete the registration
· ~: "' '~ ....·'·::2"'.'.:-:7.;:~,..'form and submit it by September 15, 2000. You
.... .,::
.......... """ ':~.'~".' must register to receive broadcast
..... " -" ............. site but would like to view the videoconference,
" " "'~:~ "':" :iii d~hkihg. by y6hth,Wil!.also be reviewed which"~ll
.... ~c ....... : "' .. · :". ,, ."<...';'¢ ,;:,.. ;....: .'.:...... ;-:. :; :: :;,'; ,,:.' :.-' · '~'.~::: '..-', ~.~.~:facility that can receive the satellite coordinates.
..... ' .... it': :~hesi e6hani~tie:i'iii~e:-ili~i2i'it~ige; This means the facility must have a steerable
of stmte E' ,~ ..'I/itS' ind 'chlih'~ii;.i~ '~"~'~t'mi~:(dd~s''satellite dish. The broadcast will be available on
and co~ :.¢"'effo'rt.~':t~ curb alcohol t,~e and access. C-Band and Ku-band. Agencies to contact in
...; ..
'ribe the imp.'~ct the pmt,:ams have had '~ii: (li~2your community to schedule a viewing site are
· ' ' "~: cooperative extension offices, community
-- ' - ' Facilitating a downlink site is easy and can provide
Broadcast ObjeCtiVes ..... Audience an opportunity for you to ~neet with other local
· Present information 'about'the rangeof Serious health and socialThis broadcast is designed for anyone concerned with underageorganizations or agencies. When you register to
problems associated with underage drinking drinking, but most critically for retailers. law enforcement, schoolbe a site coordinator/facilitator, you will receive
· Share model 'approai:hed, ..strategies;~ and mdthods to reduceadministrators, juvenile court judges, community leaders, youthall of the relevant information (i.e., Participant
underage drinking . . - .' service providers and loc.al, state and federal policymakers. Packet, Facilitator Guide, and Technical
· Provide information abiStit the importanrroles for govemmental InformatiOn Guide) approximately one week
and non-g0vemmental agencies and organizations concemed with before the broadcast. You are requested to copy
this issue and about the Feder/il funding opportunities for states the Participant Packet and provide one to each of
and communities .~ your site's participants on the day of the
" broadcast.
· - ,' ' 2This. BrOadcast can be viewed on the World Wide Web ..... ..
To view the streaming technology, ydur computer will need the folldwing components: Video Rights
' a 28k or 56k modem m .You are encouraged to videotape the broadcast for
· '. a'set of speakers use as a future resource...No rights are reserved by
· asoundcard ' OJjDP or its contractor, the JuvenileSJusti6e
..' Microsoft Media Player (free download) or Telecommunications Assistance Project (JJTAP)..This
" . R'ealPl.ayer (free download) broadcast will be closed-captioned for the
To verify that yo'~r s~stgm is set up to receive live.streaming, please visit the following website: hearing impaired.
' ' , , 'http://www.juvenilenet.org - ' D