HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-10-13 Info Packet CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION PACKET
CiTY OF IOWA CiTY
www.icgov.org October 13, 2005
I OCTOBER 17 WORK SESSION
IP1 Council Meetings and Work Session Agendas
IP2 Memorandum from Matthew J. Hayek: Scattered Site Housing Taskforce Final
Recommendations [Memorandum from Community and Economic Development Coordinator
regarding Scattered Site Housing Task - Clarification of votes distributed at 10/17 Work
Session]
IP3 Memorandum from the City Clerk: Council Upcoming Meeting Schedule
Memorandum from City Clerk: New Work Session Meeting Dates [Distributed at 10/18
formal meeting]
MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS
IP4 Memorandum from the City Manager: Dates to reserve on your calendar
IP5 Letter from James Fry to the City Manager: Traffic flow at the Benton and Sunset Street
Intersection [City Manager response included]
IP6 Memorandum from the City Clerk: Agenda Items for Joint Meeting
IP7 Memorandum from the City Clerk: Municipal Leadership Academy
IP8 Memorandum from the Fire Chief to the City Manager: GeoComm - Final Report
IP9 Memorandum from the Public Works Director to the City Manager: Water Quality Standards
- Issues for Iowa City
IP10 Police Dep~rtment Use of Force Report September 2005
Letter from Melissa Hunt, Hawkeye Area community Action Program, Inc.' Senator Harkin to
hold a town hall meeting (October 14) at HACAP
Memorandum from City Manager: ICAD Board - Municipal Electric [Distributed at 10/17
Work Session]
Memorandum from City Clerk: Absence
PRELIMINARY/DRAFT MINUTES
IPll Deer Task Force: September 27, 2005
October 13, 2005 Information Packet (continued! 2
IP12 Senior Center Commission: September 27, 2005
IP13 Scattered Site Housing Taskforce: October 3, 2005
~.~_~.-S;~.~=:_~'='~__~_ _ CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION PACKET
C..ITY OF IOW,A CITY
October 13, 2005
www.icgov.org
octopi, wo. s ss o.
I
/
IP1 il Meetings and Work Session Agendas
IP2 Me from Matthew J. Hayek: Scattered Site g Taskforce Final
Recor
IP3 Memorandum from City Clerk: Council Upcoming Schedule
IISCELLANEOUS ITE
Dates
/
IP4 Memorandum from the City r: to resale on your
calendar
IP5 Letter from James Fry to the City er: flow at the Benton and Sunset Street
Intersection [City Manager response
IP6 Memorandum from the City Clerk: Agenda I1 is for Joint Meeting
IP7 Memorandum from the City Clerk: Munici rship Academy
IP8 Memorandum from the Fire Chief to the ;eoComm - Final Report
IP9 Memorandum from the Public the City lager: Water Quality Standards
- Issues for Iowa City
IP10 Police Department Use of For//~ Report September 2005
/
PR~LIMINARYIDRAFT MINUTES
IPll Deer Task Force: Se/p~mber
27,
2005
IP12 Senior Center Co~mission: September 27, 2005
/
IP13 Scattered Sit~ousing Taskforce: October 3, 2005
/
~ City Council Meeting Schedule and
CITY OF IOWA CITY Work Session Agendas October 13, 2005
www.icgov.org
· MONDAY, OCTOBER 17 Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:30p Council Work Session
· Scattered Site Housing Task Force
· Planning and Zoning Items
Joint Meeting with Planning and Zoning Commission
Map and Code (a-i)
· Agenda Items
· Council Upcoming Meeting Schedule
· Council Time
· TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18 Emma J. HarvatHall
7:00p Regular Formal Council Meeting
I TENTATIVE FUTURE MEETINGS AND AGENDAS
· WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 26 North Liberty
TBA Joint Meeting
· MONDAY, OCTOBER 31 Emma J. Harvat Hall
2:00p- 5:00p Work Session (Special time)
· TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1 Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00p Regular Formal Council Meeting
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 7 Emma J. Harvat Hall
TBA Special Work session or Formal (zoning code)
· MONDAY, NOVEMBER 14 Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:30p Council Work Session
· TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15 Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00p Regular Formal Council Meeting
· TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29* Emma J. Harvat Hall
TBA Possible goal setting 2005/2006 City Councils
· SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3 Emma J. Harvat Hall
A.M. Meeting with area Legislators
· MONDAY, DECEMBER 12 Emma J. Harvat Hall 6:30p Special Work Session
· TUESDAY, DECEMBER 13 Emma J. HarvatHall 7:00p Special Formal Council Meeting
*Date not confirmed
IP2
MEMORANDUM
TO: Iowa City City Council
FROM: Matthew J. Hayek
DATE: October 11, 2005
RE: Scattered Site Housing Taskforce Final Recommendations
Dear Council Members:
The Scattered Site Housing Taskforce has now completed the investigation for which it
was formed in April 2004. I am pleased to report that the complexity of the issues
examined was matched by the energy and dedication of all eight Taskforce members.
Attached are the following:
Final Recommendations for City Council
Chart summarizing free-reduced lunch numbers at ICCSD schools
(Table 1)
Fair Share Matrix (Table 2)
Map showing census block groups in Iowa City where
opportunities exist for future assisted housing
The above-referenced final recommendations and materials collectively were adopted by
an almost-unanimous vote of the Taskforce. Seven members voted for their adoption,
and one member (Jerry Anthony) voted against.
I and others from the Taskforce look forward to discussing these materials with you at the
October 17, 2005, Council work session.
Iowa City Scattered Site Housing Taskforce
Final Recommendations for City Council
11 October 2005
INTRODUCTION
The Scattered Site Housing Taskforce ("Taskforce") was created by the Iowa City City
Council by unanimous vote on April 6, 2004. The Council's instructions to the Taskfofce were
to "study the existing distribution, location and types of assisted housing in Iowa City" and
"recommend policies or actions, as appropriate, regarding the disbursement, location, and type of
future assisted housing."
The Taskforce consisted of eight individuals from the community who volunteered their
time and talents to the inquiry:
· Don Anciaux - Chair, Iowa City Planning & Zoning Commission
· Jerry Anthony - Vice Chair, Housing and Community Development Commission
· Darlene Clausen - Representative, Iowa City Neighborhood Council
· Matthew Hayek - Chair, Housing and Community Development Commission
· Jan Left- President, ICCSD Board of Directors
· Jan Peterson - Executive, United Way of Johnson County
· Sally Stutsman - County Supervisor, Johnson County Board of Supervisors
· Joan VandenBerg - At-Risk/Youth and Family Coordinator, ICCSD
Between April 2004 and October 2005, the Taskforce toured much of the community's
assisted housing infrastructure, conducted 24 open session meetings, and held two public
hearings. Numerous individuals and organizations were invited to present data and opinions.
Of the 17 organizations that presented, 11 were providers of assisted housing. Others presenters
included housing-related departments at the City, University of Iowa experts, residents,
developers, and so on. The Taskforce reviewed over a thousand pages of written material
submitted by these organizations and individuals.
Following this exhaustive review, the Taskforce began a process of deliberating the
issues at hand. This report (1) summarizes some of the trends identified by the Taskforce and (2)
offers a number of policy recommendations for consideration by the Council.
Page 1 of 8
Iowa City Scattered Site Housing Taskforce
Final Recommendations for City Council
11 October 2005
TRENDS
The Taskforce identified numerous trends that need community attention. The more
salient trends include the following:
(1) Demand for housing assistance is on the rise. In 2000, the waiting list delay for Housing
Choice Voucher Program (formerly known as Section 8) vouchers through the Iowa City
Housing Authority was zero. An individual or family could apply for housing assistance
and, if qualified, receive a voucher immediately. By 2005, the waiting list has grown to
more than 2,650 names. An individual or family applying now for housing assistance
faces an approximately two-year wait for a voucher.
It should be noted that Iowa City is by no means unique in this regard; other metropolitan
areas and even smaller communities within the state have witnessed this very trend in
recent years. The influx of low-moderate income populations likely stems from housing
policy shifts in major metropolitan areas as well as demographic and economic changes.
Iowa City is a particularly attractive place to live due to job opportunities and a broad
array of services such as health care, human and social services, education, and public
safety.
(2) Local housing costs are among the highest in the state. Whether renters or owners,
Johnson County households face among the highest housing costs in Iowa. In fact,
Johnson County has the highest proportion of cost-burdened households statewide.
While the cost of housing within Iowa City drives the countywide average, this dynamic
is changing as Coralville now has a higher median price for single-family units. The
Taskforce found that numerous members of the community whose incomes are modest
are unable to pay market rates to rent or purchase housing. Land prices continue to rise.
(3) Assisted housing tends to be concentrated. The Taskforce found that certain census block
groups contain a disproportionately high number of assisted housing units, while other
block groups contain few (and ot~en no) assisted housing units. Census block groups are
the smallest geographic measurement for which reliable statistical data are available.
This fact makes it very difficult to gauge the concentration of assisted housing within, for
example, a single square block or a portion of a single street. Without a doubt, large
multi-unit assisted housing complexes result in an even higher concentration in the
immediate vicinity.
(4) Emergency and transitional housing is even more concentrated. Within the spectrum of
assisted housing, emergency and transitional housing (i.e. housing for the homeless or
nearly-homeless) is especially concentrated. One area in particular stands out in this
regard. Block group 18-2 presently contains 41 percent of all transitional housing and 69
percent of all emergency housing. If the local homeless shelter is relocated pursuant to
current plans, block group 18-2 could end up with 100 percent of all emergency housing.
The Taskforce believes this situation merits special attention.
(5) Poverty and mobility pose a challenge to our schools. The school district has witnessed
marked changes in its student population. Poverty levels at certain schools, measured by
Page 2 of 8
Iowa City Scattered Site Housing Taskforce
Final Recommendations for City Council
11 October 2005
the percentage of students receiving a free or reduced price lunch, are on the rise. By
way of example, 26 percent of Mark Twain Elementary students received a free or
reduced price school lunch in 1995; by 2004, the figure was 61 percent. This contrasts
sharply with other schools in the district, where rates were as low as 2 percent. The
district wide average was 21 percent. A chart summarizing the 2004 free/reduced lunch
numbers of all ICCSD elementary schools is attached as Table 1.
Other data are likewise alarming. Rates of student mobility (the likelihood that a student
will not start and finish an academic year at the same school) are on the rise. At Twain,
the mobility rate exceeded 60 percent by 2003, while elsewhere in the district the
mobility rates were as low as 8 percent (Lincoln Elementary). Teachers who addressed
the Taskforce noted the difficulty of providing quality educational outcomes to high-
poverty, highly-mobile student populations. The district targets higher-poverty schools
with considerably more resources (up to ten times the amount targeted to lower-poverty
schools) in the areas of guidance, reading, class-size reduction, ESL, special education,
before-and-after school programs, family resource centers, and the like. Despite this,
however, educators from the classroom to the central administration office shared what
they described as a growing crisis for education within the community. Notwithstanding
the commitment of additional resources, Twain and Grant Wood are the two ICCSD
elementary schools at risk of being placed on the federal watch list. The Taskforce is
concerned with what it regards to be increasingly disparate school environments within
the same public school system.
Due to confidentiality restrictions on school data, the Taskforce was un. able to examine
links between poverty and mobility on the one hand and assisted housing on the other.
However, it believes the City, the school district, and other relevant organizations should
research this issue further and explore appropriate responses.
(6) Local service providers face increasing demand The Taskforce heard from numerous
agencies and non-profits that provide housing and/or services to low-moderate income
populations. The message from these entities is that their workloads continue to increase
and that many of them face barriers to meeting demands for housing, social and human
services, and the like. As budgets for these services are reduced by the federal and state
governments, additional burdens are placed on local government, the agencies
themselves, and private donors.
(7) The University of Iowa impacts local housing. The Taskforce found that rental units of
all kinds (both assisted and unassisted) are found mostly within a third of Iowa City's
residential census block groups, and mostly near the University of Iowa. This is due to
zoning as well as market demands. The total current enrollment at the University of Iowa
is 29,745. Only 20 percent of University of Iowa students live on campus. The
remaining 80 percent live in private market rental units. Of the total enrollment, 15,765
(53 percent) live in private market rental units in Iowa City; 1,785 (6 percent) live in
private market rental units in Coralville. As a result, individuals and families compete
with college students for rental housing. The college students can often pay higher rental
rates and/or find roommates to share rent expenses, placing low-moderate income
individuals and families at a disadvantage.
Page 3of 8
Iowa City Scattered Site Housing Taskforce
Final Recommendations for City Council
I I October 2005
(8) Federal funding for housing programs is decreasing. City staffand the presenters
discussed the declining levels of support for housing, jobs and services for low-moderate
income persons. Drops in CDBG, HOME and Housing Choice Voucher Program
(formerly known as Section 8) funding have diminished the federal resources available
for local housing needs.
RECOMMENDATIONS
The Taskforce urges the Council to consider two sets of objectives:
General policy objectives:
(1) Iowa City should strengthen its commitment to assisted housing and increase
opportunities for affordable housing generally.
(2) Iowa City should adopt a scattered site policy to ensure a fair share distribution of
assisted housing throughout the community.
Specific policy objectives:
(3) The City should launch a campaign to educate the community about the importance of
affordable housing, the impact of allowing the status quo to continue, and the degree to
which housing and development decisions must involve all segments of the community.
(4) The City should enlist other municipalities, as well as the county and area school
districts, for purposes of collective action to address affordable housing and services.
The issues of housing and poverty cannot be solved by the City alone.
(5) The City should make land available for emergency and/or transitional housing
throughout the community. The City should neither encourage nor support additional
transitional or emergency housing within census block group 18-2. At present, 41
percent of all transitional housing, and 69 percent of all emergency housing, is located
within census block group 18-2. The new Shelter House facility will result in the
location of 100 percent of all emergency housing within census block group 18-2. (This
recommendation is not intended to impact plans .for the new Shelter House facility. The
Taskforce recognizes the difficulty to date associated with finding a location for the new
shelter.)
(6) The City should commit resources to encourage future assisted housing to be placed in
underrepresented census block groups identified by the fair share matrix provided with
these recommendations. This means committing additional funding (i.e. beyond current
expenditures and beyond the CDBG/HOME funding stream from HUD) to providers of
assisted housing to offset the increased cost of developing housing in such areas.
Page 4 of 8
Iowa City Scattered Site Housing Taskforce
Final Recommendations for City Council
11 October 2005
(7) If the City commits sufficient resources to scatter assisted housing without causing a
reduction in current rates of supply, it should not support additional assisted housing in
census block groups identified as significantly overrepresented.
(8) The City should encourage affordable housing within the private market. This may'
involve changes in zoning and code regulations; permitting smaller lot sizes, row
housing, and the like; and exploring creative approaches to housing and development
policy.
(9) The City should ensure that the needs of our assisted housing population are adequately
met by the community's service providers. The City should avoid imbalances between
the level of need and the ability to meet that need through human and social services.
The City should collaborate with public and private partners on comprehensive services
to those in poverty. Assistance in the areas of transportation, child care, Counseling,
education, and employment can help individuals and families become and remain self
sufficient.
(10) The City should encourage low- and medium-density rental housing (such as duplexes,
town houses and the like) to be developed in currently-underrepresented areas of the
community. At present, most rental housing is confined to only 10 of 31 census block
groups. Such a policy would disperse rental housing away from the University of Iowa
student areas and make it easier for families to compete with students for such housing.
(11) The City should take additional steps to increase sustainable home ownership among its
population earning less than 80 percent of area median income.
(12) The City should develop a mandatory inclusionary zoning policy with incentives for new
housing developments. An inclusionary zoning policy holdS great promise for affordable
housing at minimal cost to taxpayers. [Adopted 6-1; Hayek voted against; Anciatac
abstained.]
(13) The City should expect owners and managers of all rental housing to manage their
facilities adequately. The Taskforce encourages vigorous enforcement of existing
policies. Much public opposition to assisted housing results from deficient maintenance
and management of unassisted tenant populations. As a mere 1,150 of the approximately
15,000 rental units in Iowa City are assisted, it is important to monitor all rental facilities.
(14) In conjunction with its review of the Consolidated Plan (CITY STEPS), the City should
provide for a yearly review of fair share data so that the matrix provided with these
recommendations is updated as conditions within block groups change. The Taskforce
recommends that City staff and HCDC coordinate this annual task.
(15) The City should conduct a comprehensive review of any scattered site policies at five-
year intervals. The City should consider a sunset provision to ensure that such policies
are closely monitored.
Page 5 of 8
Iowa City Scattered Site Housing Taskforce
Final Recommendations for City Council
I 1 October 2005
[Recommendation nos. 1-11 and 13-15 were adopted 7-1; Anthony voted against them.
Recommendation no. 12 was voted on separately (see above).]
FAIR SHARE MATRIX
As described above, the Taskforce concluded that concentrations of assisted housing are
a growing problem for the community and should'be addressed as a matter of policy. At the
same time, the growing need for both affordable and assisted housing requires a continued
commitment. How best to address concentration and housing demand is the challenge we face.
After considerable analysis and deliberation, the Taskforce decided to establish a "fair
share" matrix (Table 2) (see also the attached map showing census block groups within the
community that lack assisted housing). For this, each of the 31 applicable census block groups
was assigned two numbers. The first number is the present amount of housing units (both
assisted and unassisted) within a given block group as a percentage of all housing units in the
community. The second number is the present amount of assisted housing units within that
block group as a percentage of all assisted housing units in the community. This approach
demonstrates how a given block group compares to other block groups in terms of its share of
assisted housing. Additionally, the taskforce wanted the matrix to be easy to understand, employ
readily available and reliable data, and permit efficient updating as new building occurs within
the community.
The fair share matrix demonstrates that the total current number of housing units within a
given block group may be as low as four and as high as 2,945. Similarly, the fair share matrix
demonstrates that the total current number of assisted housing units within a given block group
may be as low as zero and as high as 392.
The basic premise of the fair share matrix is this: for a blockgroup to contain its "fair
share" of assisted housing relative to other block groups, its percentage of all assisted housing
should approximate its percentage of all housing. The Taskforce believes this approach provides
the most equitable means of improving the distribution of assisted housing.
It should be noted that the fair share matrix does not - and cannot - answer all questions
or account for all variables. For example,, zoning constraints within certain block groups
preclude medium- or higher-density apartments and condominiums, discouraging the even
distribution of such housing. However, after considering various different approaches and data
sources, the Taskforce concluded that the fair share matrix represents a fair, logical way to
measure the assisted housing landscape.
While the fair share matrix was selected as the primary means by which concentration or
lack of affordable housing opportunities should be gauged, other data were considered and are
worth mentioning. The Taskforce reviewed the following data and discussed their merits and
faults at great length. Consensus was not reached regarding the use of these data, and as such
they were not included as criteria in the fair share matrix. However, the Taskforce believes these
and other factors should be considered in any scattered site policy.
Page 6 of 8
Iowa City Scattered Site Housing Taskforce
Final Recommendations for City Council
I I October 2005
· Data regarding the Housing Choice Voucher Program (formerly known as the
Section 8 program)
Data regarding assisted housing by type (elderly viz. disabled viz.
individuals/families) and by block group
Data regarding assisted rehtal housing as a percentage of all rental housing
per/within each block group
· ICCSD free/reduced lunch data
· ICCSD mobility data
· ICCSD test scores data
Poverty, median housing price data
· Location of human/social services data
· University of Iowa - Field Problems Project
List of Presenters
Habitat for Humanity
Shelter House
Domestic Violence Intervention Program
City of Iowa City Housing Authority
City of Iowa City Community and Economic Development Office
City of Iowa City Urban Planning Office
Greater Iowa City Housing Fellowship
Successful Living, Inc.
Hawkeye Area Community Action Program
Bums & Bums, L.C.
Mid-Eastern Council on Chemical Abuse
Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County
Iowa City Neighborhood Council
Wells Fargo Bank (private lender representative)
University of Iowa - Residential Services
University of Iowa - Urban and Regional Planning
Home Builders Association of Iowa City
Iowa City Area Association of Realtors (invited but declined to present)
Iowa City Community School District
Page 7 of 8
Iowa City Scattered Site Housing Taskforce
Final Recommendations for City Council
I 1 October 2005
S.S.H.T. Meeting Dates
April 29, 2004
May 12, 2004 Bus Tour
May 17, 2004
June 7, 2004
June 21, 2004
July 12, 2004
July 19, 2004
August 2, 2004
August 16, 2004
August 30, 2004
September 20, 2004
October 4, 2004 Public Hearing at Twain Elementary School
October 18, 2004
November 8, 2004
November 22, 2004
December 6, 2004
December 13, 2004
January 3, 2005
January 24, 2005
January 31, 2005
February 14, 2005
February 28, 2005
March 28, 2005
April 4, 2005 Public Hearing at the Senior Center
April 25, 2005
May 26, 2005 (cancelled)
October 3, 2005
Page 8 of 8
Table 1
Table 1: Percentage of K-6 grade
students in F&R pro,rams by school
School Year
1995 2004
Twain 26% 61%
Hills 30% 54%
Wood 19% 45%
Mann 37% 44%
Roosevelt 35% 41%
Kirk'wood 16% 32%
Lucas 13% 29%
Coralville Central 15% 27%
Penn 18% 23%
Longfellow 19% 21%
Lemme 7% 18%
Weber 20% 15%
Hoover 7% 11%
Horn 5% 8%
Wickham n.a. 5%
Lincoln 5% 4%
Shimek 7% 2%
City High 7% 15%
West High 8% 14%
Northwest junior high 14% 21%
Southeast junior high 13% 22%
CEC 44% n.a.
Total for ICCSD 14% 21%
Source: ICCSD data presented to the Taskforce
TABLE 2
Fair Share Assisted Housing Units Based on Percentage of All Housing in Each CT~BG
All Assisted Units (Owner and Renter)
Column I Column 2 Column 3 Column 4 Column $ Column 6 Column 7 Column 8 Column 9*
Census Block 2000 Census 2000-2004 Bldg Total Number of Percent of All Housing Number of Percent of Assisted Over,Under
Tract Group All Housinq Units Permits (# of units) Housin.q Units Units in CTI, BG Assisted Units Units in C'I'tBG Fair Sham
I 1 935 88 1023 3.56% 4 0.39% Under
I 2 1018 90 1108 3.85% 38 3.43% Under
4 I 2327 486 2813 9.79% 392 13.94% Over
5 1 4 0 4 0.01% 0 0.00% Under
5 2 2652 293 2945 10.25% 21 0.71% Under
6 1 1812 7 1819 6.33% 9 0.49% Under
11 I 833 8 841 2.93% 30 3.57% Over
11 2 929 18 947 3.29% 14 1.48% Under
12 I 398 2 400 1.39% 14 3.50% Over
12 2 499 5 504 1.75% 4 0.79% Under
13 I 681 59 740 2.57% 13 1.76% Under
13 2 523 3 526 1.83% 9 1.71% Under
14 I 281 0 281 0.98% 6 2.14% Over
14 2 713 26 739 2.57% 90 12.18% Over
14 3 909 144 1053 3.66% 28 2.66% Under
15 I 709 2 711 2.47% 10 1.41% Under
15 2 572 8 580 2.02% 16 2.76% Over
16 1 1602 73 1675 5.83% 15 0.90% Under
16 2 1372 3 1375 4.78% 81 5.89% Over
17 I 455 I 456 1.59% 21 4.61% Over
17 2 346 2 348 1.21% 3 0.86% Under
17 3 545 11 556 1.93% 13 2.34% Over
18 I 1794 420 2214 7.70% 102 4.61% Under
18 2 1389 123 1512 5.26% 162 10.71% Over
21 I 14 0 14 0.05% 0 0.00% Under
21 2 612 139 751 2.61% 104 13.85% Over
23 1 430 30 460 1.60% 1 0.22% Under
23 2 784 2 786 2.73% 0 0.00% Under
23 3 5 0 5 0.02% 0 0.00% Under
104 4 627 0 627 2.18% 0 0.00% Under
105 I 31__.~3 618 93_._~1 3.24% 7_~6 8.16% Over
Iowa City Totals 26083 2661 28744 100.00% 1276 4.44%
Note: "Assisted" units include rental and owner-occupied housing units that received public funds. This does not include Housing Choice Voucher Program (a.k.a. Section 8) units.
* The 'Over, Under' Fair Share in column 9 is determined by the data in columns 6 and 8. If the percentage in column 8 is greater than the percentage in column J~ then the census block group
is 'Over' its Fair Share and if the percentage in column 8 is less than the percentage in column 6 the census block group is 'Under' its Fair Share and is lacking assisted housing opportunities.
10 October 2005
Dear Council Members:
The following are some supplemental thoughts concerning the recommendations of the
Scattered Site Housing Taskforce.
1. The recommendations before you were the product of deliberation and negotiation
between eight citizens who lent their time and energy to the task, as well as
certain agencies and individuals who advocated a number of policy outcomes.
The recommendations reflect a compromise of opinion.
2. The specific method of scattering assisted housing chosen by the Taskforce is,
from my perspective, less critical than the need per se to avoid such
concentrations. In other words, the fair share matrix offered with the
recommendations may or may not be the best approach. The City's own planners
are well-equipped to advise Council in this regard.
3. If housing in Iowa City is to become more affordable for more people, the private
market is essential.~ Even if additional public funds are dedicated to assisted
housing programs, the net increase in assisted housing units throughout the
community will pale in comparison to the amount of housing generated by the
private market. In realistic terms, I would estimate the ratio of future assisted
housing to future private market housing to be no greater than 1:20. This fact
underscores the importance of working with the private market to encourage and
incent affordable housing. Density of housing (lot sizes, row housing, etc.) is, in
my opinion, a good place to start.
4. Greater promotion of home ownership among low-moderate income individuals
and families is important. Home ownership carries financial and other benefits
that most of us take for granted. It offers more options for consumers and can
scatter housing more effectively. It merits as much support as this community can
provide.
5. I do not support mandatory inclusionary housing for two reasons. First, I believe
the City should experiment with voluntary, incentive-based inclusionary zoning
before taking the more drastic step of requiring it. Second, I believe the specifics
of any inclusionary zoning policy (regardless of type) should be crafted by City
planners after careful study. Ideally, any such policy would cover most or all of
Johnson County to avoid imbalances or unanticipated impacts to Iowa City.
6. Regional planning will become more important - and hopefully more viable -
with time. Affordable housing, concentrations of poverty, and increasing
demands on social services are issues that Iowa City's neighbors are starting to
face. I believe area municipalities and school districts will be more likely to
conclude that they, too, have a role to play in these issues. Collective, well-
planned action promises to benefit all communities in Johnson County.
Sincerely~
Matthew J. Hayek
Scattered Site Housing Taskforce
· OCT 10
Supplementary Note and Critique- ,.lerry Anthony, member Housing and Community
Development Commission of the City of Iowa City
The recommendations of the Scattered Site Housing Taskforce have several features and some
shortcomings that if overlooked in any scattered site policy adopted by the City may lead to
serious legal challenges.
1. Problems because of the lack of evidence
The Iowa City Community School District's letter to the Council (dated November 11,
2003) implied that students living in assisted housing are the prime cause of low school test
scores. As explained in paragraphs a), b) and c) below, there is no evidence to support this
contention.
a) The Taskforce asked Iowa City Community School District (ICSSD) to provide test scores
of students based on where they lived (assisted housing versus non-assisted housing). Citing
data confidentiality reasons, ICSSD did not disclose this information. Thus, no evidence to
back ICCSD's claim was presented to the Taskforce.
b) Students living in assisted housing are often assumed to be more likely enrolled in free and
reduced price lunch programs than students living in non-assisted housing. Yet if ICCSD data
on students enrolled in free and reduced price lunch (F&R) programs is exam/ned one does not
find clear support for this assumption. As the Table 1 (on the next page) shows, the
percentage of F&R students in Wood and Twain (two schools that are often presumed to draw
many students from assisted~housing developments) are not dramatically different from those
of Hills, Mann and Roosevelt (that are commonly presumed to have far fewer proportions of
students living in assisted housing).
c) Students enrolled in F&R programs are often assumed to have lower scores on standardized
tests than other students. Yet data from ICCSD schools presented to the Taskforce do not
support this assumption. In ICCSD elementary schools in 2003 there were 826 students in
grades 3-6 who were below proficiency levels on standardized tests: of these, the majority
(454) were not enrolled in F&R programs. Assisted housing comprises a mere 4% of the total
rental housing stock in Iowa City. Since children living in non-assisted rental housing are
· likely to be as mobile as those living in assisted rental hoUsing, ascribing all problems from
mobility (if any) in the ICCSD to those children living in assisted rental housing is incorrect.
In summary then, there is no evidence at all linking students scores with living in assisted
housing, there is no indication that there is a greater percentage of students on F&R programs
in areas that have more assisted housing units, and no definitive trend linking enrollment in
F&R programs or high mobility with low test scores in ICCSD. Therefore, to blame students
living in assisted housing for poor school test scores without any evidence to that effect is
clearly wrong. And if poor test scores is used as an argument to support a scattered site
housing policy, such a policy may be easily overturned upon legal challenge.
Table 1: Percentage of K-6 grade students in
F&R programs by school
School Year
1995 2004
Twain 26% 61%
Hills 30% 54%
Wood 19% 45%
Mann 37% 44%
Roosevelt 35% 41%
Kirkwood 16% 32%
Lucas 13% 29%
Coralville Central 15% 27%
Penn 18% 23%
Longfellow 19% 21%
Lemme 7% 18%
Weber 20% 15%
Hoover 7% 11%
Horn 5% 8%
Wickham n.a. 5%
Lincoln 5% 4%
Shimek 7% 2%
City High 7% 15%
West High 8% 14%
Northwest junior high 14% 21%
Southeast junior high 13% 22%
CEC 44% n.a.
Total for ICCSD 14% 21%
Source: ICCSD data presented to the Taskforce
2. The danger of inappropriate policy intervention
The issue as framed in the ICSSD's letter to the City Council (noted above) tends to pit the
school district's interests against those of Iowa City families wanting to pay affordable rents
and prices for housing. Based on overall test scores, the ICCSD is one of the best performing
school districts in the nation and perhaps the best in the state. On the other hand, Johnson
County has the absolute worst affordable housing situation in the state. Since new policy
interventions should enhance community welfare, it is imperative that new policies not
exacerbate current problems. Therefore, attempting to address the school district's concerns
about low-test scores (a worthy goal) by exacerbating the affordable housing crisis, regardless
of whether scattering could actually improve test scores, may not be a wise, legally-defensible
strategy. If the City considers implementing a scattered site housing policy, hopefully this
point will be kept at the forefront of all deliberations.
Parenthetically, one wonders whether the ICCSD has explored other options for improving
school test scores within the school system, such as busing some students from enrollment
areas of school with low-test scores to schools with higher scores.
2
3. The Fair share matrix has significant shortcomings
The Fair share matrix is based on the notion that every part of the city should have its fair
share of the assisted housing units. While the concept is simple, it has a significant
shortcoming: zoning disallows location of assisted or affordable housing in many parts of the
city (for example, multi-unit apartments and high density single-family units can only be built
in a select few areas of the city). Therefore, it is absolutely impossible for all parts of the city
to have a fair share of the city's assisted housing.
The matrix itself has three major shortcomings:
a) One, it disallows construction of assisted housing for elders (who do not have any
children in schools) in certain areas of the city.
b) Two, it disallows construction of new assisted housing in areas that have
developable land while encouraging construction in areas that do not.
c) And finally, it uses a definition of concentration that is vastly different from the one
the City has always used without providing any reason for the change in definition.
Use of the matrix to implement a scattered site policy will likely lead to multiple legal
challenges about its appropriateness.
4. Problems in process
Deliberations of the Taskforce were seriously compromised by several lapses of due process
that could invite legal challenges. For the sake of brevity, only one example is provided here:
the Taskforce did not include any member who either built assisted housing or lived in it---
thus excluding an important group from the deliberations--while including two members of
the organization that leveled charges against assisted housing.
Guidelines for policy intervention.
Given the plethora of legal challenges possible, should a scattered site policy be implemented and
if so how?
If the City chooses to implement a scattered site housing policy, committing additional
funds (from new sources, rather than from CDBG/HOME and other existing sources) will help
ensure that the current supply of affordable housing is not adversely affected by a desire to scatter.
Implementing a scattered site policy after the new sources have been identified will further reduce
legal challenges. That said the Fair Share matrix in its current form, may still expose the City to
some legal challenge. The City should consider using the definition of concentration that it has
always used in the past or prepare a less flawed Fair Share matrix. Ideally, the City should adopt
a mandatory inclusionary zoning policy as recommended by the Taskforce. This would provide a
steady supply of affordable housing units, in scattered locations and at no-cost to the City.
Ultimately, as Taskforce members concluded, a mandatory inclusionary zoning policy is the only
financially feasible and sustainable solution to offset the location of assisted housing units in only
some areas of the city.
3-
MEMORANDUM
DATE: october 14, 2005
TO: City Council
FROM: Steven Nasby, Community and Economic Development Coordinator
RE: Scattered Site Housing Task Force - Clarification of Votes
To avoid any confusion on the votes taken by the Scattered Site Housing Task Force
(SSHTF) regarding their recommendations, trends and fair share matrix the following is a
summary of the votes from the October 3 meeting.
1. Notion to accept all 'recommendations' as revised, excluding recommendation
#12 (inclusionary zoning). Notion passed 8-0.
2. Notion to approve recommendation #12, that the City should develop a
mandatory inclusionary zoning policy with incentives to new housing
developments. Notion passed 6-1-1 (Hayek voting against and Anciaux not
voting).
3. Notion to approve the revised Fair Share matrix. Notion passed 7-1 (Anthony
voting against).
4. Notion to accept the 'trends' as revised. Notion passed 8-0.
5. Motion to accept the whole SSHTF report as revised and previously voted upon.
Notion passed 7-1 (Anthony voting against).
For additional information please see the 'preliminary' minutes for the October 3 $SHTF
meeting that were also in the October 13 Council Information packet. If you have any
questions, please contact me at 356-5248 or via e-mail at Steven-Nasby@iowa-city.orq.
Natthew Hayek, SSHTF Chair
DATE: October 12, 2005
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Marian K. Karr, City Clerk
RE: Council Upcoming Meeting Schedule
Proposed New Work Session Meetinq Dates:
Tuesday, November 22 (rescheduled from November 9)
(7:00 PM - Public Library) - League meeting with area
Legislators on Property Tax Legislation
Wednesday, November 16
(1:00-3:00 PM - Harvat Hall) - GeoComm Radio System Upgrade
(joint communications center)
Monday, November 28 (option to Saturday December 3)
(4:30-6:00 PM - Harvat Hall) - Meeting with area legislators
Confirmation of Tentative Work Session Meetinq Dates:
Tuesday, November 29 - Goal Setting 2005/2006 City Councils
(TBD - Harvat Hall) (Outside facilitator?)
Zoninq Code text & map proposed schedule
October 17 - P&Z joint meeting at work session for discussion of map changes
and determination of possible changes to text *
October 16 - Public hearing on map & continued hearing on text; continue text
to 11/1; close hearing on map OR continue to 11/1; continued
determination of possible changes to text *
October 31 - Work session (2:00-5:00 PM); reconcile map & text; continued
determination of possible changes to text *
November 1 - Continued public hearing on text and continue again to 11/15;
hearing on map if continued; close map hearing; continued
determination of possible changes to text *
Council Upcoming Meeting Schedule
October 12, 2005
Page 2
November 7 - Work session to finalize changes to text *
November 15 - Continued public hearing on text; close hearing; first consideration
on both map & text *
December 4 - Moratorium ends
December 12 - Second consideration (special formal at Monday work session)
December 13 - Pass and adopt (regular formal)
· If Council chooses to wait until November 7 to propose changes to the text it
will not be possible for staff to have the text ready for first reading on
November 15.
cc: Steve Atkins
Eleanor Dilkes
Karin Franklin
S:upcomingschedule.doc
DATE: October 18, 2005
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Marian K. Karr, City Clerk ~t~
RE: New Work Session Meeting Dates
Discussion of the proposed schedule was continued from the October 17 work
session until the formal meeting of October 18.
Work Session dates and times noted below will be added to the Council
schedule unless directed otherwise.
Wednesday, November 16
GeoComm Radio System Upgrade (joint communications center)
(1:00-3:00 PM - Harvat Hall)
Tuesday, November 22 (originally scheduled for November 9)
League meeting with area Legislators on Property Tax Legislation
(7:00 PM - Public Library)
Monday, November 28 (option to Saturday December 3 afternoon)
Meeting with area legislators
(4:30-6:00 PM - Harvat Hall)
Tuesday, November 29
Orientation 2005/2006 City Councils
(6:30-8:30 PM - Harvat Hall)
S:upcoming schedulelI.doc
Date: October 12, 2005
To: City Council
From: City Manager
Re: Dates to reserve on your calendar
Please note two dates I would like to have you mark on your calendars. On November 4 at
approximately 3:30 we are planning a formal dedication, grand opening, etc. of the new Court
Street Transportation Center. On November 16 between 1:00 and 3:00 we plan to have
Geocom, our consultant for the Emergency Dispatch Center report, present their findings and
other related information. Council members are invited to hear this presentation. It is my intent
to invite the County Board of Supervisors as well as other interested parties.
cc: Mike Sullivan, County Board
mgdmem/calendar.doc
October 4, 2005
Steve Atkins
City Manager
City of Iowa City
410 E. Washington Street
Iowa City, IA 52240
Dear Sir:
I would like the mayor and city council to determine the correct traffic flow on Benton
Street at the Sunset Street intersection. The width of both the eastbound and westbound
lanes has been widened enough to allow a second vehicle to pull alongside when a car is
waiting to make a left turn. Many times I have seen that vehicle use it as a right tum
lane. This does not create a problem if their vision of north and or southbound traffic is
not obstructed. However, I have also seen a number of vehicles pull alongside and pass
on the right to go straight ahead. It is not uncommon for that to occur just as the left
turning vehicle tums and the vehicle behind it continues to go straight ahead. The
vehicle on the right essentially cuts off the path of that second vehicle.
If you do not plan on installing left turn signals at that intersection, it seems that it would
help prevent accidents if the right lanes were marked as right turn only lanes or a left turn
only lane marked in the center lane if you choose that alternative. Personally I don't feel
there is enough space for the through traffic to pull over to the right to go straight ahead.
Thank you.
es Fry
Cc: City Council --
~-< "q -l-t
Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1826
(319) 356-5000
(319) 356-5009 FAX
October 12, 2005 www.icgov.org
Mr. James M. Fry
2110 Slagle Circle
Iowa City, IA 52246
Dear Mr. Fry:
I have referred your letter of October 4 to the City Council. It does appear that the lane markings
could be more clearly marked at the intersection of Benton and Sunset Street. Your thoughts on
turning lanes will need to be reviewed. We will have our traffic engineering staff collect the
necessary data to determine the proper lane configuration.
If you have any questions and would like an update on the review process, please feel free to
contact Jeff Davidson, 356-5252, who will be conducting the review.
Sincerely,
City Manager
Cc: City Council
Jeff Davidson
mgr/Itrs/benton-sunset.doc
C I T Y
~~~~. IP6
IJ M
DATE: October 10, 2005
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Marian K. Karr, City Clerk
RE: Agenda Items for Joint Meeting
North Liberty will be hosting the next joint meeting of the City Councils of Iowa City,
Coralville, and North Liberty; the Iowa City Community School Board, and the Johnson
County Board<of Supervisors. The meeting date is scheduled for October 26 at 4:00
(originally set for October 19 but rescheduled due to Chamber Annual Banquet).
Please forward any agenda items to me no later than Wednesday, October 19. The
meeting is scheduled to last about two hours. Because of time constraints items will be
reviewed by the Mayor prior to submission.
A complete agenda and meeting date confirmation will be available in your packet
preceding the meeting.
cc:jointmeetingrequestforitems.doc
DATE: October 12, 2005
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Marian K. Karr, City Clerk
RE: Municipal Leadership Academy
Attached is information on the Leadership Academy presented trough a partnership of the
Iowa League of Cities, the office of State and Local Government Programs at Iowa State
University and the Institute of Public Affairs at the University the University of Iowa.
Please contact me if you are interested in attending.
Enclosure: Brochure
Logan City Hall
Municipal
L rsh p
The Fundamentals of C ty Leadership
A Four Part Workshop Series
Presented through a partnership of the Iowa League of Cities, the Office of State and Local Government
Programs at Iowa State University and the Institute of Public Affairs at the University of Iowa.
Learning the Essentials
Leadership in city government involves making policy deci-
sions that affect the day-to-day lives of citizens. City decision-
making is impacted by local, state and federal regulations. It is
vital for mayors, council members and other city officials to
understand the essentials of city government, especially those
new to office.
The basics covered during the series include: · Municipal law
· City finance and budgeting
· Employment and personnel issues
· Meeting procedures attendance of veteran city officials as participants and panelists
gives a newly-elected official the chance to learn from those
Making Connections who already serve in city leadership positions.
In addition to learning the basics of city government, making
connections is crucial in city leadership. Whether the city is Who Should Attend?
seeking connections to resources or wants to connect to other
cities for ideas, MLA provides opportunities for both. Newly elected mayors and council members, veteran mayors
and council members, city clerks and city administrators will
all benefit from attendance.
MLA will help a city official learn where to go for answers
when they have questions. One added benefit of MLA for the
Graduates of the Academy receive a certificate and special recognition
newly elected official is time with other city officials from the
at the League's 2006 Annual Conference. Local media outlets are
area, many of whom are also new to city government. The
notified of each graduate' s achievement.
Part One: The series begins after the 2005 elections and before a newly elected official takes office. Part One is held at six
locations around the state. The meeting kicks off with tips from a panel of experienced elected officials. City leaders have to
make financial decisions for their city and attendees at Part One will learn the basics of the city financial and tax systems.
City business is conducted through council meetings, and attendees will learn about the Iowa Open Meetings Law as
well as practical information on conducting meetings. Participants will also learn the essential municipal laws that affect
day-to-day city business. Lastl)~ as part of their registration fee, attendees receive a copy of the Municipal Policy Leader's
Handbook: A Guide for Mayors and Council Members published by the Institute of Public Affairs, a value of $18 provided at no
extra cost to registrants.
Mason City Cedar Rapids Ames
Saturday, November 19 Saturday, December 3 Saturday, December 10
Hartford Inn Clarion Hotel & Convention Center Iowa State Center
Hwy 122 West 525 33rd Ave SW Suite 04 Scheman Building
Mason City, IA 50401 Cedar Rapids, IA 52404 Ames, IA 50011
10 a.m.-2 p.m. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Atlantic Cherokee Ottumwa
Thursday, December 1 Thursday, December 8 Thursday, December 15
Cass County Community Center Cherokee Community Center Indian Hills Community College
1205 Sunnyside Lane 530 West Bluff 525 Grandview Avenue
Atlantic, IA 50022 Cherokee, IA 51012 Ottumwa, IA 52501
4-8 p.m. 4-8 p.m. 4-8 p.m.
Part Three: Part Three will
Part TWo: One of the build on the basics introduced in
the first two sessions. Pending leg-
islation will be discussed and time
is reserved to talk about the
hottest topic affecting cities at the
time. Economic development
financing will also be a prime
topic. Attendees will learn about
Tax Increment Financing and other
tools used by cities to retain and
attract businesses and housing. A
portion of time will also be spent
on community betterment and
nuisance clean-up.
Pocahontas
Thursday, March 30, 2006, 4-8 p.m.
Pocahontas County Expo Center
310 NE 1st Street
Pocahontas, IA 50574
Albia
Saturday, April 1, 2006, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Indian Hills Inn
100 Hwy 34 East
Albia, IA 52531
Charles City
Thursday, April 6, 2006, 4-8 p.m.
Sleep Inn & Suites
1416 S Grand Ave
Charles City, IA 50616
West Des Moines
Saturday, April 8, 2006, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Sheraton West Des Moines
1800 50th Street
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Griswold
Saturday, April 22, 2006, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Griswold Community Bldg
603 2nd Street
Griswold, IA 51535
Maquoketa
Thursday, April 27, 2006, 4-8 p.m.
Maquoketa Comfort Inn
1910 Narin Drive
-Maquoketa, IA 52060
Part Four: The final MLA session
occurs in conjunction with the
League's 2006 Annual Conference &
Exhibit. Specific workshops at the
conference will be designated for
MLA participants. Attendees will
need to register for conference sepa-
rately in June 2006.
Coralville
September 27~29, 2006
MuniciPaI Leadership Academy (MLA)Re§istration
Each attendee must fill out a separate form.
Name Title
City. Email
Address Phone Fax
Contact Name
~ Please sign me up for the first MLA Session only (Please indicate below, the location you plan to attendforpart 1). ,
Member fee = $45/person Non-city officials = $90/person
You are entitled to the League member fee if you are a city official or have recently been elected to a ~ity office.
I plan to attend all first three parts of the MLA Series and receive a special rate of $90. A savings of $20!
(Only available to League members. Please indicate below, the locations you plan to attend for Parts 1, 2 & 3.)
Part Two - ICN sites
Thursday, January 12, 2006 Part Three
Please circle the ICN site location you plan to attend. [] Pocahontas
Al~ sites are tentative. P/ease confirm a week prior to the event. Thursday, March 30, 2006
Ankeny Denison Laurens Rockford [] Albia
Saturday, April 1, 2006
Audubon Estherville Marshalltown Sac City [] Charles City
Thursday, April 6, 2006
Burlington Fairfield Monticello Sioux City
[] West Des Moines
Centerville Forest City Muscatine Vinton Saturday, April 8, 2006
[] Griswold
Clarinda Fort Dodge Orange City Waterloo Saturday, April 22, 2006
Creston Indianola Oskaloosa West Union [] Maquoketa
Thursday, April 27, 2006
.Council Bluffs Lamoni Perry Williamsburg
Please note: In the unlikely event that any workshop must be canceled due to inclement weather, the League will attempt to
contact all registrants. Registrants can also check the League's web site at www. iowaleague, org for information. Workshops
canceled by the League will be rescheduled. Participants unable to attend the new date will receive full refunds. Registration
deadline is one week prior 'to the workshop date; refunds can be given up until one week prior to the workshop date. Call the
League if you need special accessibility or dietary accommodations.
Return this registration form and appropriate fee to: Iowa League of Cities, PO Box 84, Des Moines, IA 50309 or FAX: (515) 244-0740
You may also register online at www. iowaleague, org.
Iowa City Fire Department
"Serving with Pride and Professionalism Since 1872"
DATE: October 11, 2005
~v-
TO: Stephen J. Atkins, City Manager~(v~/_ ~/~ L~' g'~'
FROM: Andrew J. Rocca, Fire Chief/~_,~
RE: GeoComm - Final Report
On November 16, 2005, Mr. Mike Celeski and Mr. Paul Linnee will be presenting GeoComm's
final report and recommendation on the radio system upgrade. The meeting will be held in
Emma J. Harvat Hall from 1:00 PM to approximately 3:00 PM.
During the presentation, they will cover the City of Iowa City's options regarding an upgrade to
the City radio system and the feasibility of developing a joint communications system with
Johnson County. This will be an excellent opportunity for elected officials to learn first-hand
about the radio communications study and GeoComm's final recommendations.
Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
AJR/bdm
FIRE DEPARTMENT * 410 E. Washi~tgton Street * Iowa Ci(r, IA 52240 Phone: (319) 356-5260 FAX: (319) 356-5263 n'ww. iq[~t, org
Office of the Fire Chief Office of the Fire Marshal Battalion Chief~ Fire Training HazMat Public Education
Fire Administration Fire Prevention B~treat~ Station 1 St~ttion I Statiot~ 2 Station 3
(319) 356-5256 (319) 356-5257 (319) 356-5262 (319) 356-5258 (319) 356-5266 (319) 356-5265
City of Iowa CityiP9
MEMORANDUM
To: Steve Atkins, City Manager
~.A,
From: Rick Fosse, Public Works Director ~---~g:::::
Date: October 11, 2005
Re: Water Quality Standards - Issues for Iowa City
DNR is holding public hearings this month on a variety of changes to the state's "Water Quality
Standards".
The issue has been brought to the fore by environmental activist groups claiming Iowa has not
adequately implemented the Clean Water Act through classifying and applying water quality
standards to all streams in Iowa.
The majority of the streams in question are small streams. Some have been administratively
categorized with a minimum flow while others have not been categorized at all.
The proposed change intends to apply a classification to all streams, including those that do not
flow all year and those that are made up entirely of wastewater plant effluent for part of the year.
The initial effect of these changes will be to increase the required level of wastewater treatment
for smaller communities, trailer parks, camp grounds, and industries. Most likely these will need
to upgrade their facilities to mechanical treatment systems rather than aerated lagoons in order to
achieve ammonia removal limits.
One problem with the suggested DNR changes is that these will be applied before a formal
technical "Use Attainability Assessment" is done for each stream. The assessment may indicate
that many of these streams are not and never will be fishable and swimmable because they never
carry enough water to allow it.
Another problem centers on the likely scenario that only point sources will be regulated on the
basis of these changes. The further control of point source contaminants- nitrogen in particular -
has been shown to produce an insignificant improvement due to the small percentage of their
contribution. DNR does not have the authority to regulate most non-point sources - in particular,
agricultural runoff.
The issue of water quality improvement for the Iowa environment needs to be addressed through
a coordinated and complete watershed approach. We will advise the IDNR of our concerns and
share our recommendation to complete the scientific analysis to determine need before
implementing more stringent standards.
Cc: Dave Elias
IOWA CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT 0~~~ ~g~
USE OF FORCE REPORT ' ~
September 2005 ~L~
OFFICER DATE INC # INCIDENT FORCE USED
02,25 090105 05-43688 Warrant Service Officers used hands on control technique
to take a subject into custody that was
resisting arrest.
14,42 090305 05-44032 Interference with Official Subject attempted to physically interfere
Acts with the arrest of another after being told
to leave the area. Officers used hands on
technique to escort the subject away
from the area and take them into custody.
02,20 090305 05-40053 Intoxicated Subject Subject was placed under arrest for
public intoxication and resisted hand
cuffing efforts. Officers attempted to use
control techniques to take the subject
into custody. Subject continued to resist
and was exposed to a chemical agent.
Subject was then handcuffed and taken
into custody.
23 090305 05044210 Welfare Check Subject attempted to assault Officers and
was placed in handcuffs.
59 090505 05-44656 Committal Officers used hand control techniques to
disarm a subject that was attempting to
cut themselves.
47,51 090605 05-44875 Trespass Subject was placed under arrest and
resisted handcuffing efforts. Officers
used control techniques to place
handcuffs on the subject and escort them
to a squad car.
38,58 091005 05-45472 Interference with Official Subject assaulted a Police Officer and
Acts tried to facilitate the escape of another
who had been arrested. Officers exposed
the subject to a chemical agent and used
control techniques to take the subject
into custody.
38 091005 05-45472 Public Intoxication Subject was placed under arrest and
resisted handcuffing efforts. Officers
used control techniques to place
handcuffs on the subject and escort them
to a squad car..
36 091505 05-46342 Possession of Controlled Subject attempted to destroy evidence.
Substance Officer used control techniques to
remove the subject from their vehicle
and take them into custody.
06 091605 05-46519 Bar Check Subject attempted to flee from Officers
after being stopped for an alcohol
violation. Officers used control
techniques to detain the subject and
place them in handcuffs.
47,44 091605 05-46574 Medical Assist Subject was placed under arrest and
resisted handcuffing efforts. Officers
used control techniques to place
handcuffs on the subject and escort them
to a squad car.
33,51,31,05,36 091705 05-46839 Armed Subject Officers drew sidearms while searching
for a subject who had threatened another
with a handgun. Subject was located and
taken into custody without incident.
21 091705 05-46921 Welfare Check Subject had been placed under arrest and
resisted handcuffing efforts. Officers
attempts to use control techniques to take
the subject into custody were
unsuccessful. Officers then exposed the
subject to a chemical irritant which
allowed them to be taken into custody.
05 091805 05-47132 Prowler Officers drew sidearms when searching
the area for suspicious person. The
subject was located and taken into
custody without incident.
48 091905 05-47349 Public Intoxication Subject assaulted a Police Officer while
at the hospital. Officers used control
techniques to escort the subject out of the
building.
25 092105 05-47741 Public Intoxication Subject assaulted Police Officers while
at the hospital. Officers used control
techniques to prevent the subject from
further assaults.
33 092505 05-48442 Assault Subject attempted to assault a Police
Officer. Officer used control techniques
to place handcuffs on the subject.
58,55,25,18,31 092505 05-48459 Fight in Progress Subject was placed under arrest and
resisted handcuffing efforts. Officers
used control techniques and a chemical
irritant to take the take the subject into
custody.
58 092505 05-48459 Fight in Progress Subject had been placed under arrest and
refused to walk to a squad car to be
transported. Officers used control
techniques to escort the subject to a
squad car.
31 092805 05-48888 Criminal Mischief Subject had been placed under arrest and
refused to sit in the back of a squad car
to be transported. Officers used control
techniques to assist the subject into a
seated position for transport.
95,30 092905 05-49050 Burglary Officers responded to an alarm where
forced entry to the building was located.
Officers drew sidearms while searching
the building. No suspects were located in
the building.
H AW K E Y E A R E A 1515Ha~vkeye
Drive
COMMUNITY ACTION Hiawatha, IA 52233
P R O G R A M, I N C ~ Phone (319)393-
7811
Fax (319) 393-6263
Contact: Melissa Hunt
Phone: (319) 393-7811 ext. 12 P.M., October 13, 2005
1009
SENATOR HARKIN TO ~{OLD A TOWN ~IALL MEETING AT
HACAP' S CORPORATE OFFICE
HIAWATiHA, IA, OCTOBER 14TM 2005: Senator Tom Harkin
will be hosting a Town-Hall style meeting on Friday
October 14th at HACAP, Inc. 1515 Hawkeye Drive,
Hiawatha Iowa 52233. The meeting will begin at 2
P.M. and conclude at 3 P.M. The Senator will be
opening up the discussion to participants in the Low-
Income Heating and Energy Assistance Program. (Li-
HEAP) The discussion will focus on the threat they
are facing this winter due to the steep rise in
energl~ costs.
Date: October 14, 2005
To: City Council
From: Mayor Pro Tem
City Manager
Re: ICAD Board - Municipal Electric
On Friday, October 14 at the regularly scheduled ICAD Board meeting, the Board voted a
formal position to "recommend the municipal utility referendum be defeated". In our capacity as
members of the Board we abstained, explaining that the City Council had chosen not to take a
formal policy position for or against with respect to the municipal electric referendum.
mgdmem/municipal-electric.doc
RANDUM
DATE: October 18, 2005
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Marian K. Karr, City Clerk ~-'~'~
RE: Absence
I will be out of the office Thursday, October 20, and will be back in the office on Friday. Both
Julie and I will be attending the Iowa Municipal Finance Officers Association in Des Moines.
Sondrae and Kellie will know how to reach me.
cc: Steve Atkins
Dale Helling
Eleanor Dilkes
U/absence.doc
MINUTES DRAFT
DEER TASK FORCE MEETING
SEPTEMBER 27, 2005
LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM - CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Pat Farrant, Chair; Alan Nagel; Harold Golf; Jan Ashman;
Martin Jones; Gene Szymkowiak (arrived late)
MEMBERS ABSENT: Peter Jochimsen, Pete Sidwell, Linda Dykstra
STAFF PRESENT: Kathi Johansen, Sue Dulek
CALL TO ORDER:
Chairperson Farrant called the meeting to order at 5:50 PM.
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL:
Jones moved to accept the Long-Term Deer Management Plan as amended;
seconded by Goff. Motion passed 6 to 0.
APPROVE MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER 20, 2005, MEETING:
Farrant asked if anyone had any changes to the minutes. Jones noted that under
"Recommendation to Council," in the second paragraph, it should be "Moved by Jones;
seconded by Szymkowiak." Jones further noted that in the second line, where it mentions
Item 4.B.2., it should also have Item 5. Next, on page two, second paragraph, where
Szymkowiak talked about deer habitat, Jones stated that it needs to be changed to reflect
what he was saying, such as, "...as there will be less deer habitat in these districts."
Jones stated that about three lines down from this, there is a typo with "about." On page
three, Jones noted that where it states "Szymkowiak stated that he would make the
motion," should be Jones. This was then seconded by Szymkowiak. (Szymkowiak
arrived at 5:56 P.M.) Jones stated that a point had been made at this meeting about
inviting the City Manager to a Deer Task Force meeting. Johansen stated that she would
add this under "Other Business." Nagel noted that the third sentence of the fourth
paragraph, "He feels they..." - this should be "we." Nagel further stated that on page
three there is a close quote, but he does not see the beginning quote, and he believes this
is a typo. Nagel moved to accept the September 20, 2005, minutes as amended;
seconded by Jones. Motion passed 6 to 0.
APPROVE LONG-TERM DEER MANAGEMENT PLAN:
Farrant noted that the changes that had been requested have been made to the Long-Term
Deer Management Plan. Jones noted that on Item 4, after the word "long-term" there
should be the word "deer" added (deer population). Nagel noted that he had some
discussion with Dulek about Item 6. Nagel brought up the "annual plan" wording in the
Long-Term Deer Management Plan. There also was a deletion of the phrase "prior to
initiation of City Management plans." Ashman asked if the members wanted to add
"Annual" to the wording "Deer Management Plan." Dulek relayed to the members the
process that will take place with their plan. She said that a resolution approving the
Long-Term Deer Management Plan will be on the City Council's agenda Tuesday
evening. Golf stated that he wanted to bring up a "technical" matter. He stated that in
4.B. 1. it states "...using centerfire rifles," and essentially it is "centerfire and rimfire
rifles." Jones moved to accept the Long-Term Deer Management Plan as amended;
seconded by Goff. Motion passed 6 to 0.
COMMUNITY COMMENT: None.
OTHER BUSINESS: Johansen noted that they received six Proposals for the
sharpshooting contract. Members also asked what the process is, or will be, for
homeowners to let the City know that they are having problems with deer. It was
suggested that they contact the City Manager's office. Members were also asked to
check the City's web site for more information.
SET AGENDA AND TIME FOR NEXT MEETING: Johansen suggested scheduling
a meeting next week to discuss the 05/06 plan. After some discussion, it was decided that
this was not needed at this time as the recommendation for sharpshooting and
bowhunting for 2005-2006 had been discussed and provided to Council last spring.
ADJOURN:
Farrant asked for a motion to adjourn. Ashman moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:26
P.M.; seconded by Szymkowiak.
Minutes submitted by Laura Berardi
2
Deer Management Task Force
Attendance Record
20o5
1/18 2/15 3/1 3/22 4/19 4/26 9/20 9/27
J. Ashman X O X X X X O/E X
L. Dykstra X X X X X X X O
P. Farrant X X X X X X X X
H. Goff X X X X X X X X
M. Jones X O O X O X X X
P. Sidwell O X X O X X X O/E
A. Nagel X X X X X X X X
P. Jochimsen X O X O X X X O/E
G. ] ........ X X X X X X
Szymkowiak
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No Meeting
..... Not a Member
DRAFT
MINUTES
SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION
SEPTEMBER 27, 2005
ROOM AR - SENIOR CENTER
Call to Order: Meeting called to order at 2:05 PM.
Members Present: Lori Benz, Jo Hensch, Jay Honohan, Sarah Maiers, Charity
Rowley and Nancy Wombacher.
Members absent: Betty Kelly.
Staff Present: Michelle Buhman, Linda Kopping, Julie Seal and Susan Rogusky.
Others Present: Lynn Campbell, Betty McKray and Lee McGovern
Recommendations to Council:
None.
Approval of Minutes:
Motion: To approve the minutes from the August 2005 meeting as distributed.
Motion carried on a vote of a 7-0. Hensch/Rowley
PUBLIC DISCUSSION
Alvin Schroeder invited members of the Senior Center Commission to attend his
program on the life and times of Mark Twain scheduled at the Senior Center on October
13, at 1:30 p.m.
Charlotte Walker suggested that the Center offer more dances.
COMMISSION ASSIGNMENTS
Benz volunteered to write the report from this meeting for the website. Hensch and
Honohan will report on this meeting to the Board of Supervisors and City Council
respectively.
DISCUSSION OF THE RECOGNITION OF ELEANOR HUGHES
The Commission will resume their discussion of how to honor Eleanor Hughes for her
large donation at the next goal setting session scheduled for October 14, 2005.
REVIEW OF AUGUST STRATEGIC PLANNING MEETINGS AND AN UPDATE ON
THE OCTOBER 14 IMPLEMENTATION PLANNING SESSION THAT WILL
CONCLUDE THE STRATEGIC PLANNING PROCESS. Kopping
Kopping asked commissioners for their comments regarding the summary of the August
Goal Setting Sessions provided by Jim Swaim, meeting facilitator. Commissioners
agreed that the documents were complete and reflected the discussions that took place
at the meeting.
The implementation planning meeting is scheduled for Friday October 14, 2005 from
9AM to 3PM in the conference room at the City's Water Plant. Nancy Jackson, a
consultant with expertise in the participatory strategic planning process the Commission
DRAFT'
has been involved in will be the primary facilitator for this meeting. Jackson was
recommended by Jim Swaim, who will be assisting at this final session. Jackson's total
fees will be $1050. Swiam has requested a family membership at the Center in return for
his services.
SENIOR CENTER UPDATE
Operations - Kopping
Kopping distributed and reviewed a financial report for fiscal year 2005 that she received
from Michael Stoffregen, Director of the Community Foundation of Johnson County.
According to this report it appears that the last transfer of funds was deposited into the
Charitable Giving Fund rather than the Endowment. Kopping said she talked to
Stoffregen about this and was told that all transfers are held in the Charitable Giving
Fund until there is a financially opportune time to move the funds into the Endowment.
The transfer to the Endowment had not taken place by the end of fiscal year 2005.
Kopping announced that Senior Center Receptionist, Irene Crutchley, has decided to
retire as of October 3, 2005. According to City policy this position will be advertised
internally first. This gives temporary and permanent employees the first opportunity to
apply for this job.
Programs - Seal
No report available. Seal is on vacation.
Volunteers - Rogusky
Rogusky reported on the Care for the Care Giver program series that is being offered on
Wednesday evenings. Approximately twenty-five people have been attending each
session.
Rogusky has been recruiting volunteers to staff the lobby on weekends during the
October Scavenger Hunt sponsored by the Johnson County Cultural Alliance. The
Scavenger Hunt is a cooperative promotional project involving organizations in the Iowa
City, Coralville and Cedar Rapids areas that are associated with the Cultural Alliance
Memberships and Fundraising Report- Buhman
Buhman reported that there are approximately 975 members at this time. As of August
31, 2005 the center has raised 25% of the $149,009 it is supposed to raise for the
operational budget in fiscal year 2006.
COMMISSION DISCUSSION:
Honohan reported to the City Council on the August Commission meeting. He
volunteered to report to the Board of Supervisors on the Commission's October meeting.
Wombacher plans to report to the City Council after the October meeting. Benz will write
the Commission report for the website.
Motion: To adjourn. Motion carried on a vote of 6-0 Rowley, Wombacher.
DRAFT
Senior Center Commission
Attendance Record
Year 2005
Name Term 1/24 2/15 3/15 4/26 5/18 6/21 7/19 8/16/ 9/27
Expires
Lori Benz 12/31/05 O/E X O/E X X X X O/E X
Jo Hensch 12/31/06 X X X X X X O/E X X
Jay Honohan 12/31/07 X X X X X X X X X
Betty Kelly 12/31/07 X O/E O/E X X X O/E X O/E
Sarah Maier 12/31/06 X X X X X X X X X
Charity Rowley 12/31/05 X X X X X X X X X
Nancy 12/31/06 X O/E X X X X O/E O/E X
Wombacher
Key: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E= Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
-- = Not a member
MINUTES
SCATTERED SITE HOUSING TASKFORCE
OCTOBER 3, 2005
LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Don Anciaux, Jerry Anthony, Darlene Clausen, Matthew Hayek, Jan Left, Jan
Peterson, Sally Stutsman, Joan Vandenberg
STAFF PRESENT: Steve Nasby, Steve Rackis
OTHERS PRESENT: Maryann Dennis, Charles Eastham, Tracy Falcomata
CALL TO ORDER:
Chairperson Hayek called the hearing to order at 4:10 pm.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Anciaux asked if Axeen was contacted to ask for clarification of his statement at the March 28 Public
Hearing, as noted in the minutes. Nasby and Hayek said not to their recollection. Several minor
typographical edits were submitted for the minutes.
MOTION: Anciaux moved to approve the April 25, 2005 Minutes as amended, and Stutsman seconded.
The motion carried on a vote of 8-0.
DISCUSSION OF DRAFT RECOMMENDATIONS FROM TASKFORCE TO CITY COUNCIL:
Hayek said that the subcommittee consisting of Jerry, Joan and himself met several times and also meet
with staff. Though there was some delay because of schedule conflicts with arranging meetings and data
that needed to be gathered. Work was done on the revisions to the recommendations, which were
discussed at that previous meeting, and on composing a narrative report to accompany the
recommendations. New language was composed for several items, and the order of the
recommendations was also changed per the taskforce's directions. The fair-share matrix was revised; the
new matrix is a departure from previous matrices, and will be discussed later. Additions included an
introduction explaining the process the taskforce followed leading to the final report, summarizations of
salient trends, and a list of presenters and meeting dates. The fair share matrix and the updated map
prepared by city staff will both accompany the report as well. He noted that all the taskforce members are
encouraged to do a page supplemental memo if they feel that important information was omitted, as the
subcommittee decided that a short and concise report would be the most effective.
Hayek said that the City Council had indicated that it would like the taskforce to finish their report and staff
had scheduled time on the October 17 work session so that the findings can be presented. If consensus
cannot be reached on any points, he suggested putting it to a vote and then moving on. Stutsman asked
if a minority report could be done. Hayek said yes, the idea being to employ some approach to resolve
the issue or establish how the taskforce members stand on the issues. The next Council meeting is on
October 17th or 18th, so the packet and any supplemental comments need to be submitted by October 12.
Anthony asked if the taskforce received a memo from the Council requesting the taskforce complete its
report. Hayek said no, the request was conveyed through city staff.
Anthony suggested reviewing the recommendations quickly, since they are near completion. Anciaux
asked which recommendations were tabled at the last meeting. Anthony said numbers 6 and 7. Anthony
said that after reviewing and approving the recommendations, the taskforce then can move on to the
matrix, and spend some time discussing it since it is different from previous versions. After that, the trends
would be discussed.
Hayek noted that some other recommendations needed to be reviewed, one with new language and the
other for changes in relation to census tract 18. Recommendations 6 and 7 were tabled because of
planned revisions to the matrix.
MOTION: Anciaux moved to accept the edited recommendations as submitted. Stutsman seconded.
Scattered Site Housing Taskforce Minutes
October 3, 2005
Page 2
Stutsman asked who "it" is in recommendation number 7. Hayek said the City of Iowa City. Stutsman
asked to change the document to make the reference more specific.
Peterson asked what "providing additional funding" meant in the last sentence of recommendation
number 6. Anciaux said it would be a subsidy to offset higher land values, to allow affordable or assisted
housing to be built in more areas. He noted that it might be inappropriate to tell the Council what to do in
regards to financial planning, so that part should be phrased as a recommendation.
Peterson asked for clarification about who the providers of assisted housing are. For example, people can
live wherever the vouchers are accepted, so the providers are not specific. Vandenberg suggested
changing "providers" to "developers." Anthony agreed with clarifying the statement without providing
specific agencies. Stutsman recommended leaving it as is, since "developers" is too specific, has certain
connotations, and might exclude other groups. Clausen suggested using "program." Peterson said that
might be just as confusing. There was general consensus with leaving the statement as already written.
Hayek asked if there were any additional concerns or comments. Stutsman added that she liked the new
language in recommendation number 6.
Hayek said that recommendation number 5 is tied to the trends part of the report. The subcommittee had
concerns with the inconsistency of focusing on block group data for some of the recommendations, and
census tract data for others. Data is now available for emergency and transitional housing in block groups
18.1 and 18.2. He recommended breaking down the data for this recommendation also by block group.
Vandenberg asked how the data breaks down. Hayek said that for transitional housing, 4.5 percent is
located in 18.1 and 41 percent is located in 18.2. For emergency housing, zero percent is located in 18.1
and 69 percent is located in 18.2. He noted that if Shelter House moves to its intended location, 100
percent of emergency housing would be in 18.2.
Peterson asked for confirmation that by changing the recommendation to say block group 18.2, and
changing 45 percent to 41 percent, the statement would be consistent. Left agreed. There was general
consensus for accepting the edit. Hayek said that he will use the same language, and he would make the
appropriate changes to reflect the data by block group. Anciaux asked for confirmation that the
information is not moving to the trends section. Hayek said no, it will not be moved. He added that it is
referenced in trends, but cited in the recommendation.
Hayek said that recommendation 9 has new language in the last two sentences. Peterson suggested
adding "and remain" to the sentence about becoming self-sufficient. Anciaux asked if the city is expected
to take on the additional funding if other areas are not able to help. There was general consensus that the
city is not expected to provide funding on its own. Hayek added that recommendation number 4 says to
enlist the aid of the other municipalities, the county, and the school district for collective' action.
Hayek asked if the proposed change is acceptable. There was general consensus for accepting the
revision as written along with the additional edit suggested by Peterson.
Hayek said that number 12 involves inclusionary zoning. Anthony suggested approving the other
recommendations, and then discussing a change to inclusionary zoning in number 12 after that.
MOTION: Anciaux amended his motion to accept all recommendations as revised, excluding
recommendation 12. Stutsman seconded, and the motion passed on a vote of 8-0.
Anthony proposed that recommendation 12 state that mandatory inclusionary zoning is necessary. A
fundamental cause of concentration of certain types of housing is zoning restrictions. Every other course
of action treats only the symptoms of the problem, rather than the root cause of concentrations of Iow-
income housing in certain areas. Recommending a change from voluntary to mandatory inclusionary
zoning would send a strong message about the importance of this point.
Anthony said the reason he brings it up now is due in part to the recent debates about the new zoning
code. He has done research on recent developments, and is concerned with some trends in housing
development in the area. Most developers are already not meeting current zoning levels on larger lots.
With the old zoning code, most development allows five units per acre, but developers are building only
Scattered Site Housing Taskforce Minutes
October 3, 2005
Page 3
three or four units. Voluntary inclusionary zoning would continue the status quo, rather than increasing
affordable housing. Additionally, many subdivisions are putting restrictive, private covenants in place that
contribute to restricting affordable housing over and above current zoning restrictions. He said that a
strong message needs to be sent about the cause of the problem, or otherwise the problems will persist.
The only difference will be which tracts are concentrated in the future. The City can reject this
recommendation, but there is no guarantee that the other recommendations will be accepted either.
Stutsman noted that recommending mandatory inclusionary zoning would be controversial. Anciaux
asked to be recused from the discussion, due to a conflict of interest. Anciaux left at this point.
Peterson asked what concerns there are with including mandatory inclusionary zoning, apart from
potential controversy. Stutsman said it seems like people resist anything that is mandatory, preferring
voluntary action instead. One concern is that the rest of the recommendations would be overshadowed by
concerns about the mandatory aspect.
Vandenberg asked if implementing inclusionary zoning would push development out of Iowa City.
Anthony said no. When Iowa City initially adopted a zoning code and a master plan, years ago,
developers during both debates said they would not continue to build in Iowa City because the restrictions
were too harsh. However, development did not increase in Coralville or other areas after the restrictions
were put in place. He noted that there are always benefits to having a zoning code and comprehensive
plan that improve the quality of the area, and which offset the restrictions. If Iowa City did not have a
zoning code and comprehensive plan to help shape its urban development, it would be no different from
Coralville or North Liberty.
Stutsman asked for clarification about the phrasing Anthony would like. Anthony said it would say the City
should develop a mandatory inclusionary zoning policy for new housing developments, and then delete
the second and third sentences. It is a costless option for both the city and the citizens. Some additional
planning by the developers would be needed for them to comply with it, but that could be offset by
incentives. Stutsman suggested adding "with incentives" to the first sentence. Anthony agreed. Peterson
asked for confirmation that the incentives would then be mandatory also. Stutsman said yes. Anthony
noted that the details about the incentives would have to be determined later. He acknowledged that it is
a radical recommendation. Clausen said it sounds good.
Left said that Anthony should supply an explanation for this recommendation, similar to the one given to
the taskforce members. Stutsman agreed that education is a key component. Peterson said her concern
is that she does not know what the ramifications for this change might be, because she is not
knowledgeable about the zoning code. Anthony said that in principle, it means that developers would be
required to build a certain number of houses within every new development that are affordable to Iow and
moderate income households, which is 0-80 percent area median income. This includes both rental and
owner-occupied housing. If done well, these homes can be indistinguishable from the other houses. This
is not new, but has been done successfully in other cities already.
Hayek said he is open to proposing that the City investigate mandatory inclusionary zoning. However,
making it mandatory could be controversial enough to distract from the rest of the document. Voluntary
incentives could also work, and the City might turn to the mandatory zoning before trying voluntary ones.
Anthony said that voluntary inclusionary zoning is already in place, and promises some incentives, but
they have not worked thus far. He added that the City could also propose more effective incentives in
response to this recommendation, instead of implementing mandatory inclusionary zoning.
Peterson said that if there is controversy, the taskforce members can respond by saying they
recommended it because this is important, and the current voluntary system is not working. Anthony said
that if a few assisted or affordable housing units are built into every new development, they would
naturally be scattered. He said that is the only sustainable fix to the problem of concentration.
Stutsman said it would be very helpful if the other area communities were included. Anthony agreed that it
should be a regional move, rather than local. Vandenberg said she does not feel knowledgeable enough
to make this sort of judgment call. She would like it if all communities participated, otherwise this might
push development away from Iowa City. Anthony said there was a similar debate when the smoking ban
was discussed, for example, but that does not appear to be happening. The smoking ban has not kept
people from eating in Iowa City; if there is something there they want.
Scattered Site Housing Taskforce Minutes
October 3, 2005
Page 4
Vandenberg noted that people are choosing to live in the neighborhoods that have restrictive covenants,
so there appears to be an interest and demand in that market. Rackis said that referring to "city planner"
in the paragraph is not accurate, since this is a discussion of a proposed policy, rather than
implementation. The City Council sets policy, and staff is then responsible for implementing it. The
taskforce members don't need to have expertise, because a general policy does not require great detail.
Any policy would have to be tailored to the community when it is implemented.
Hayek said whether the policy would work in Iowa City is something city staff should recommend to the
Council. This recommendation would distract from the rest of the document. He suggested asking the city
to explore inclusionary zoning. There was some material about inclusionary zoning included in the
research material, but the taskforce did not spend a lot of time investigating it. He suggested putting it to a
vote. Anthony said that the details would be worked out by city staff for all of the recommendations.
Vandenberg suggested using the word "consider." Stutsman noted that this would be the time to take a
firm stand.
Peterson questioned that if inclusionary zoning is the ideal for the county, why it would not then be a good
thing to implement in Iowa City. The Council does not have to accept this recommendation, or any of the
other ones. Stutsman said it is the only strong statement that the taskforce can make. Peterson added
that the other strong statement is in regards to placing no more emergency or transitional housing in
block group 18.2.
MOTION: Left moved to approve the revision to recommendation 12, that the City should develop a
mandatory inclusionary zoning policy with incentives for new housing developments, deleting the second
and third sentences, and leaving the last sentence as is. Clausen seconded. The motion passed on a
vote of 6-1-1. Hayek voted against, with Anciaux recused.
Anciaux returned at this time.
Stutsman asked Hayek if he would be submitting a minority report regarding the motion. Hayek said yes.
Anthony asked if dissenting notes would be submitted with the report. Hayek said yes, all the extra
statements would be attached to the end of the report.
Hayek moved the discussion to the matrix. Nasby distributed copies of the new matrix data, noting that
though the data are all the same on the new one as on the one distributed in the packets, the new one
has a label saying it includes rental and owner-occupied assisted units. He said that the census
numbers by block group for Iowa City were obtained from the state data center; because there was some
confusion in the block group numbers as some of the counts included both City and County blocks. The
number of building permits show is the number of units permitted during calendar years 2000 through
2004, according to the Housing and Inspection Services Office.
Nasby said the fair share over/under column compares the percentage of total housing in Iowa City in
each block group with the percentage of assisted housing in the block group. If the percentages of the
total housing units are equal to the percentage of assisted housing units, a block group would have its fair
share. If not, it is classified as either over or under represented. He explained that the over/under column
corresponds to the map that was included in the packet. The areas highlighted on the map are the ones
that are underrepresented or lack assisted housing opportunities in correspondence with the matrix data.
Stutsman asked if the benchmark of "over/under" and the definitions of the types of assisted units would
be included. Nasby said he would add those definitions as footnotes on the matrix. Clausen said the new
matrix makes determining the over and under represented areas very easy. Nasby said that the change
to the data from the previous matrix is that owner-occupied assisted units were included. That increased
the number of assisted units by 126 citywide. Anthony asked if the inclusion of owner-occupied units
changed the map. Nasby said yes, the two changed block groups are 15.2 and 17.3, which are both over
represented with the owner-occupied units.
Peterson confirmed that the yellow areas of the map are under represented. Nasby says yes. Stutsman
said that the map key should be explicit, explaining that the yellow areas are under represented, while the
white areas are over represented. Nasby noted that the numbers in the matrix will be dynamic, and the
Scattered Site Housing Taskforce Minutes
October 3, 2005
Page 5
dilution rates will change every year. However, using the matrix will allow rapidly expanding block groups
to be easily identified.
Vandenberg asked how large the numbers in tract 105 would have to grow before it was not over
represented. Nasby said that the percentage of all housing units would go up in that block group, while
the other number (percent of units assisted vs. total units) would come down. Where they would meet is
difficult to determine. Eastham said that by comparing to other tracts with similar percentages, 105 would
have to double the number of units to reach that point.
Hayek said that the subcommittee members were pleased to have data they are comfortable with, and
that can be recalculated every year based on issued building permits. Peterson asked what Vandenberg's
concerns were about tract 105. Vandenberg said it is an example of all the details that cannot be
controlled for. The assisted housing there is for the elderly, which gives the neighborhood a different
character. If elderly and disabled assisted housing were not included, the area would be very suitable for
more assisted development for family housing. The good thing is that the taskforce is not saying assisted
housing cannot be built there, just that it would not qualify for incentives. Peterson agreed that there had
been a lot of discussion about the diverse impacts of the different types of assisted housing.
MOTION: Anciaux moved to accept the revised matrix, and Stutsman seconded.
Anthony said he has concerns about the new matrix, though it is acceptable in conjunction with the
recommendation for a mandatory inclusionary zoning policy. Many highlighted areas will not allow rental
units or affordably priced units because of current zoning. Also, the matrix does not take into account the
potential for development of any area. With the inclusionary zoning, new development will include
assisted units at least in the undeveloped parts of the highlighted areas of the map. Hayek said that
zoning constraints are noted in the narrative portion of the matrix.
Anthony said there was some discussion about whether to include owner-occupied units in the matrix,
because previous matrix drafts accounted only for rental units. Rackis said that assisting with owner-
occupied units basically involves assistance with getting a second mortgage to cover the total cost of the
unit. It is essentially another loan, or down payment assistance. Second loans to cover down payments
are becoming more commonly available through banks, but if it is done through the City, it is labeled as
assisted.
Yandenberg would like to emphasize in the summary that the type of assisted housing matters. Peterson
agreed that is an issue of concern. She added that is addressed in the first bullet point, though it is not
stated strongly. Hayek asked if that should be reworded. Anthony asked if public housing is included in
the matrix. Rackis said yes, because they have fixed sites. The housing choice voucher program does not
have fixed sites. Vandenberg suggested changing "public housing" to "housing choice voucher program."
Vandenberg said assisted housing by type would be a different bullet point. Stutsman suggested putting
what is meant by "type" in brackets. There was general consensus to accept the proposed edits.
Hayek asked for feedback from Eastham regarding rental only versus rental and owner-occupied units in
the matrix. Eastham said that it is practical to include only rental units in assisted unit numbers, and
exclude owner-occupied. The question is whether or not the map reflects over represented units in a way
that makes sense, in terms of what is occurring with current development. Also, there is no rationale for
inclusion of owner-occupied units for assessing impacts of assisted housing. They have typically been
considered in a different category from rental units.
Dennis added that no families who have purchased homes through the Housing Fellowship qualify for
free/reduced lunch. She is unsure of the current focus of the taskforce, whether it is on the issues raised
by the school district, or on citywide assisted housing. If it is on citywide assisted housing, including
elderly and disabled housing is beneficial because those households need services. Yandenberg said it is
a citywide focus, which is why the elderly/disabled were included.
Eastham said that it would be five years or so before 105 would support additional assisted housing,
according to the current evaluation. In tract 105, 8 percent are assisted units, and all 75 of those units are
in Regency Heights. He asked what the rationale is for not having the city support further assisted
development near Regency Heights.
Scattered Site Housing Taskforce Minutes
October 3, 2005
Page 6
Peterson said she would like to have something in the summary noting that the evaluators need to look at
the neighborhoods before making decisions, and that the matrix will not be perfect. Vandenberg asked if
an inclusionary zoning policy was accepted, more assisted housing would go into tract 105 through that
means. Hayek said they would be affordable units. Peterson said that the taskforce is not saying
development cannot happen there; just that it would not be eligible for City support or incentives.
Hayek said the question at hand is whether to include owner-occupied assisted housing unit numbers in
the matrix. The denominator in the calculations includes owner-occupied. Stutsman asked if taking out
the owner-occupied units presents an accurate picture of assisted housing in Iowa City. Peterson said
that it would not be completely possible to create an accurate picture using a map and a matrix. Stutsman
said that many factors go into decisions about where to build, and the matrix gives a limited snapshot of
what assisted housing looks like in Iowa City. She would like to keep it as it is, including the owner-
occupied.
Peterson suggested adding a sentence on page six with the other bullets, encouraging the Council to
bear in mind the other factors. Taskforce members together composed an additional sentence to be
included in the paragraph, as follows: "However, the taskforce strongly feels that these are factors that
need to be considered in any scattered site policy."
MOTION: Anciaux amended his motion to accept the revised matrix, including the edits to the bullet
points, with Stutsman as second. The motion passed on a vote of 7-1, with Anthony against.
Hayek moved the discussion to the introduction section. Stutsman requested a change to her listed title.
Hayek said that the roles listed were those people had when the taskforce formed. Peterson said it was
written in past tense, so titles should be listed as they were when the taskforce formed. Several changes
were submitted by other taskforce members.
The taskforce began discussion of the trends section. Hayek said that he would make the necessary
changes to trend 4 according to the edit to the pertinent recommendation. Peterson asked what
"particularly susceptible" meant in the second paragraph of trend number 1. Anciaux said it that other
metropolitan areas are reducing services, so Iowa City is seeing an increase in demand. There is Iow
unemployment, so people come here for jobs.
Rackis said that the increase is not all tied to the housing waiting list for the local housing programs.
Clausen said the trend explanation starts out saying that Iowa City is not unique, but then finishes with an
explanation about how the City's situation really is unique. Peterson said she thinks the sentence
expresses an inflammatory point of view on a divisive issue in the community.
Hayek suggested taking out the word "particularly." Anciaux said he is interested in what Rackis was
saying about people moving to Iowa City for job opportunities. Perhaps it should say "job opportunities
and/or housing assistance." Rackis said he does not think a connection can be made that everyone who
is accessing services in Iowa City is here because of the housing programs. 43 percent of the families on
the waiting list do not live in Iowa City. The largest migration to Johnson County is from Linn County.
Peterson asked what the last sentence in the paragraph adds to the explanation. Anciaux said he has
concerns about the second-to-last sentence in the paragraph. Stutsman suggested deleting them both.
Hayek said that it is important to point out that Iowa City is an attractive community because of Iow
unemployment and available services, among other reasons. Peterson said the word "susceptible"
implies something bad might happen to the community.
Clausen suggested editing the second-to-last sentence. Anciaux recommended deleting it. Vandenberg
noted there is ample access to medical facilities, convenience to the interstate, as well as the university.
Peterson said she agrees, but when people discuss services, they typically mean human services. There
is a perception that the fact that Iowa City offers human services is why there is a problem. Rackis said
that discussion about why people come to Iowa City should be a separate trend. Hayek said it initially was
which may explain some of the current confusion.
Peterson said if the point is that people who need housing assistance also need other service, which is
one thing. Stutsman said the point is to justify why the demand for housing assistance is on the rise.
People are attracted to this community for a number of reasons. Rackis said that the inference is made
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October 3, 2005
Page 7
that the waiting list is bringing people to Iowa City, because the waiting list is discussed in the first part of
the trend explanation. Hayek asked if job opportunities should be added to the point. Stutsman agreed.
Dennis said that one reason why the demand for assisted housing is on the rise is because, with only 4.4
percent of all housing assisted, there simply isn't enough. People are not coming to Iowa City for cheap
housing. Rackis said that stating the waiting list was zero in 2000 is inaccurate. There was a waiting list
prior to receiving 200 additional vouchers into the program. The waiting list is also not necessarily a
benchmark of need, because not everyone on the list will keep their contact information updated, nor will
necessarily be qualified even when their names come up.
Rackis said trend number 1 should be separated into two trend statements. Anciaux confirmed that what
Rackis is saying is that people come to Iowa City for a variety of reasons, not necessarily because of the
housing waiting list. Those reasons include economic opportunities. Hayek said that the second
paragraph clarifies reasons for moving to Iowa City. Dennis said there is a widespread perception in the
community that because human services are so available in Iowa City that people come to the community
to take advantage of them, and that is what causes problems. Peterson agreed.
Peterson suggested changing the sentence to make it more positive. "Iowa City is a particularly attractive
place to live due to its broad array of services." Using the word "susceptible" is not the best tone. Rackis
said having the trend divided would be more effective. Peterson said the trend is discussing the demand
for housing assistance overall, not necessarily linked to the waiting list. People come to Iowa City for a
variety of reasons, and cannot find affordable housing. Hayek suggested adding "low unemployment" to
Peterson's proposed sentence. There was general consensus to add "job opportunities" instead.
Anciaux asked Rackis if he still had concerns. Rackis said the trend explanation as it stood still had the
potential to feed the myth that everyone on the housing waiting list is living in Iowa City and currently
accessing services. It also could feed into the myth that people are here because of the policies of major
metropolitan areas. Stutsman said unless the statement is eliminated totally, it clearly states what the
taskforce means, with the edits suggested by Peterson.
Vandenberg said that the dual needs of housing assistance and other services are addressed in another
section. Stutsman agreed with taking out the statement that many who seek housing assistance also
need other services. Clausen confirmed that currently the revisions to the second paragraph of trend 1
are to leave the first two sentences as stated, remove the third sentence, and then revise the last
sentence as proposed by Peterson. There was general consensus to accept the proposed edits.
Stutsman asked why Coralville is included in trend number 2. Hayek said it is because Coralville shares
these issues; their housing costs are on the rise. Dennis asked why households below 50 percent median
income are referred to as "modest," when HUD refers to that level as "very Iow." Peterson asked what
modest income is. Anthony said 80 to 100 percent median income. Peterson suggested changing it
instead to "modest incomes." There was general consensus to accept the proposed edits.
Hayek said that number 3 notes the limitations of the census data. No edits were suggested.
No edits were suggested for number 4.
For trend number 5, Vandenberg said that it should say Twain and Wood "may" be on the watch list in the
last paragraph. There are two measures, and by one measure they are on the list, but the second
measure has not been calculated yet. Hayek suggested putting "at risk" of being put on the watch list.
Peterson agreed. Dennis asked whether Lincoln is compared with Twain for mobility because it is the
lowest. Vandenberg said yes.
Vandenberg distributed a chart with free/reduced lunch information, to be included as a reference with the
report. Iowa City schools with changes are starred. She noted that the rate has decreased in some Iowa
City schools. However, Lemme, Lucas, Twain, and Wood have increased. Anthony asked if information
for the schools currently on the watch list could be included. Vandenberg said they are junior high and
high schools. Rackis agreed, noting that those schools are fed by the elementary schools. Vandenberg
said that they are on the watch list because of special education. Left said also for English as a second
language learners.
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October 3, 2005
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Anthony suggested changing the statement to say that the taskforce could not examine the information. A
link between the two points was not confirmed because the data was not available. There was general
consensus to accept the proposed edit.
Rackis said there is some concern with potential links between free/reduced lunch rates and assisted
housing in some schools, specifically Wood and Twain. The question becomes why assisted housing is
not a problem for other schools with the same percentages on the free/reduced chart. Vandenberg said it
is saying that poverty and mobility is a challenge in education, and poses a greater challenge for some
schools than others. Anciaux said both schools draw from census block 18.2.
Vandenberg said the issue is that there is greater poverty in those two schools than others. Eastham said
there is no clear evidence that links the poverty in those schools to assisted housing. There was general
agreement with that statement. Clausen said that is why the statement was edited to say the information
could not be examined. Eastham said the taskforce's purview is assisted housing, rather than poverty.
Peterson noted that these are explanations of general trends in the community.
Rackis said that listing only those two schools implies that poverty and mobility are problems only in those
two schools, even though other schools have similar percentages. Hayek said the chart is included.
Peterson agreed that these are used as examples. Hayek suggested including mobility data. Vandenberg
said that is possible, but would be difficult.
Dennis said that if assisted housing cannot be tied to poverty and mobility in the schools, perhaps it
should not be included. Left said that it has to be included because of the original charge of the taskforce.
Hayek said other things would have to be removed as well by that logic. This section is a discussion of
trends the taskforce noticed, not the subject of specific policy recommendations. Dennis agreed that
poverty and mobility is a large problem in education, but suggested that if more people could find housing
they could afford, those problems could be alleviated. That would mean more assisted housing.
Stutsman said the explanation says poverty and mobility are a challenge to the schools, not that it is
caused by assisted housing. Eastham said that all schools that experience challenges from poverty and
mobility should be included in the discussion, rather than just singling out Twain and Wood. Vandenberg
said she would be willing to focus on Twain as an example, because it is always far above the other
schools by any measure of needs assessment. The situation at Twain does have a lot to do with assisted
housing, from HACAP, MECCA, and DVIP. Eastham said if that is the reason for the opinion that assisted
housing has an impact on Twain and Wood, the statement should be explicit. The type of assisted
housing should be specified.
Stutsman said she would agree with focusing on Twain. Left also agreed. Hayek said the chart would be
included so the numbers for all schools is included. Left said using an average would be better than
choosing Lincoln. Vandenberg suggested adding a note that some free/reduced rates are decreasing.
Peterson said it is important to keep in mind what is stated in the last sentence of the second paragraph.
Stutsman asked to add a statement, referring readers to the chart. There was general consensus to
accept the proposed edits.
Stutsman said she would like to change the heading of number 6. Left said the heading for number 7
should be changed as well. The heading statement for number 6 was changed to, "Local service
providers are faced with increasing demands." Several other edits were made to the explanation. There
was general consensus to accept the proposed edits.
Heading statement for trend 7 changed to, "The University of Iowa impacts local housing."
Clausen said she would like to include the percentage of university students living off campus. The
University is another group that the city needs to work with. Rackis said he has the percentage and the
number. Hayek said he preferred including the number. Stutsman suggested including both. Anciaux
noted that university students can augment their rent payments by having roommates with individual
incomes, whereas families have fewer income options.
In trends number 8, "Section 8" was changed to "housing choice voucher program."
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October 3, 2005
Page 9
MOTION: Left moved to accept the trends as amended, and Anciaux seconded. The motion passed on a
vote of 8-0.
Hayek said that all taskforce members are encouraged to submit dissenting opinions or additional
thoughts for any part of the report. These should be submitted to Nasby in memo format by close of
business on October 10. Nasby said they should be one page, in at least 11 point font.
MOTION: Anciaux moved to accept the scattered site housing taskforce report to the City Council as
amended and previously voted, and Peterson seconded. The motion passed on a vote of 7-1, with
Anthony against.
Stutsman and Left noted thanks to the subcommittee for their hard work putting together the report.
ADJOURNMENT:
MOTION: Left moved to adjourn, and Vandenberg seconded. The motion passed on a vote of 8-0, and
the meeting was adjourned at 6:40 p.m.
s:lpcd/minuteslScatteredSiteHousingTaskforce/2OO5110-O3-O5.doc