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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2001-04-03 Bd Comm minutes Animal Control Advisory Board Meeting Minutes January 25, 2001 Coralville City Hall Present: Michele Brandstatter, Jonelle Hankner, Diana Lundell, Lisa Drahozal-Pooley; LC. Staff: Misha Goodman, Tommy Widmer, Sue Dulek (Guest City Attorney's Office) Public: Alicia Brown-Matthes, Elizabeth Hospodarsky, Jean Walker Absent: Tammara Meester, Coralville staff (Sue Cote, Terry Koehn) Minutes from last meeting were approved. OLD BUSINESS 1. Contract Update. Misha reported that she still had not gotten information back from Johnson County regarding their interest in a contract for animal control services. In the meantime she has had a request from Dr. Gay of the University Heights City Council regarding what arrangement could be made to impound some of their animals (estimated about 5 to 10 a week). 2. Holiday With the Hounds. This was an extremely successful event. Hundreds of people came to the center throughout the event - that night, and in the 2 weeks following, the center received $7,000 in donations. The center also received significant product donations. 3. Press Citizen Update. Misha reported that the special ad for the center is doubtful at the Press- Citizen because when the reps went out to sell the advertising to surround the photos of the adoptable animals, they could not sell enough advertising. Alicia brought in some prices for a similar type ad that would go in the t C Gazette. Tammara will continue to talk with the Press- Citizen and Alicia with the Gazette. 4. Licensing Update. Diana reported that she had finally talked with Coralville Police Chief Bedford, who said he supports the idea of a small group to work on improving the licensing issues between Coralvil[e and Iowa City. Diana recommended that the group consist of Misha, Sue, Diana, Michelle, and Terry. Diana will arrange a meeting of that group. 5. Support Services. Jean Walker provided a written report from the Foundation (attached) and made some brief remarks. NEW BUSINESS 1. Introduce new member. Newest board member is Michelle Brandstatter of Coralville 2. 2000 Statistics. Misha apologized for having the stats because of a technical problem. 3. Supervisor Report. Misha reported on several items: · Adoption thank-you letters postponed for now, but staff still wants to do some sort of follow-up with folks who adopt to thank them and make contact · New sign for center Misha showed us a drawing of the new sign for the Animal Care and Adoption Center · Thank you for Board members ~vho came and spoke to the Iowa City Council during its budget hearing 4. Board member reports -- none. 5. Citizen Comments -- none. Minutes submitted March 13, 2001 by Secretary Diana Lundell HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION TUESDAY, FEBUARY 13, 2001 SENIOR CENTER LOWER LEVEL MEMBERS PRESENT: April Gutting, William Stewart, Lucia-Mai Page, Kathleen Renquist, Gretchen Schmuch, Amy Correia, Gretchen Holt, Rick House, Denita Gadson STAFF PRESENT: Steve Nasby, Angela Williams, Lolita Charton, Stephen Long, Linda Severson, Maggie Grosvenor OTHERS PRESENT: David Schoon, Ernest Lehman, A. Ashe, G. Weiss, Ed Gaines, Dennis Bryon, Matt Olson, Marlin Wiskus, Ron Bradley, Dennis Spencer, Irvin Pfab, Steven Kanner, Brleta Denise Ganpat, Crissy Canganelli, Brian Corinh, Mary Gute CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Renquist called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM JANUARY 25, 2001: Motion: Stewart moved to approve minutes, Page seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 9-0. PUBLIC/MEMBER DISCUSSION OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA: Gadson withdrew from the review and decision-making duties of the commission due to a conflict of interest. Gadson then took her place with the public forum. OLD BUSINESS: Firststar Downpayment Assistance Program Long reported that Firstar Bank has requested termination of their Agreement with the City of Iowa City to operate the HOME funded Downpayment assistance program. Long stated that the program has had its problems due to the bank changing hands from First National to Mercantile and finally Firstar Bank, personnel difficulties and the new Lead Base Paint regulations. Firstar does not wish to take on the project any longer. Long stated that Firstar has signed a Termination Agreement with the City, Long recommended that the City staff administer the remaining Downpayment assistance funds. Staff feels because they have successfully assisted over 35 households with funds received from CDBG and continue to receive numerous requests from potential homeowners for the assistance funds that this would be the best option to ensure and assist potential first time home buyers with funds allocated by City staff. Motion: Stewart moved to approve the City Staff continue to allocate funds for the Downpayment Assistance Program. Page seconded the motion. Motion carried by a vote of 9-0. Housing and Community Development Minutes Februa~ 13,2001 Page 2 REVIEW OF FY01 APPLICATIONS FOR CDBGIHOME FUNDING: Renquist explained that applicants would have approximately 5 minutes to make their presentation and 10 minutes to answer questions by the commission. Economic Development Fund, City of Iowa Citv- David Schoon David Schoon informed the committee that a little over a year ago the Iowa City City Council decided to take a proactive approach to Economic Development. In taking such an approach the City Council formed a sub-committee of itself to focus on the economic development issues in the community. As part of that discussion the committee began designating funds for Economic Development projects. Part of the funds are for capital projects to support economic development activities, and the other for a more general fund, dollars that can be used for a variety of activities from direct assistance to business to studies the City Council may wish to undertake it terms of marketing, and urban redevelopment studies. The sub-committee is discussing focusing alt efforts in creating one organization to use all resources. The application before the Committee is requesting that a portion of the CDBG funds be used towards economic projects that will benefit low to moderate income persons and have the Economic Development Committee, the sub-committee of the City Council, take on those CITY STEPS goals and objectives identified and then have the committee establish a CDBG Economic Development fund that the committee would administer to reach goals through CITY STEPS. The community views the CDBG funding cycle as a disincentive or an obstacle for some projects to benefit from the CDBG funds. If they do not apply at the proper funding cycle, the opportunity ceases to exist throughout the year. The committee allows the funding to be available throughout the year. Funds would be used for employment training, education opportunities, employment suppodive services, and to also use funds for expansion and retention in businesses that provide a living wage income. Stewart asked if 75% of the funding would be grant and 75% would come back as a loan. Schoon stated that would be their goal but at this time it is unsure which would be applied for the most. Applicants applying for supportive services such as training programs which would rely more on grants while direct assistance for business which would create employment opportunity in which there is a greater chance that a loan would be used. Schoon stated at this point funds would be divided equally between grants and loans. Schmuch stated that in the past there has not been a large response from applicants. She asked how the ED subcommittee will be different in getting the information on fund availability to the public. Schoon replied after speaking with groups such as Small Business Development Center, they have projects they work on that could take advantage of a low interest loan but those opportunities may not be available at the one year funding cycle. There may be opportunities for the funds but the timing issue of an annual funding cycle doesn't work. Renquist introduced the mayor of Iowa City, Ernest Lehman, and asked if he had any comments. Lehman responded by saying he feels that this could be sustainable fund; it could be an investment fund of sorts that would benefit the community for a long time. Lehman also stated Housing and Community Development Minutes February 13, 2001 Page 3 that this could be one way of sustaining and increasing the City's tax base. He feels if the pool fund is substantial enough, there are people who will go through the process because the reward will be enough to justify the eftotis. Lehman went on to say if the funds were available year round, the response from the community would greatly increase. Renquist inquired about a previous proposal placed before the committee for a revolving fund, but the amount was small. The objection the commission had at the time was whether the monies would be used for jobs. She questioned City staff as to what happens if the money from HUD is not expended -what has to be done. Nasby said there is a "timeliness threshold" of 1.5 times the grant amount. Typically the money should be expended in a year's time. If the money is not spent in a timely fashion, it goes against the City's letter of credit. If a lot of projects were to pile up, it could be a potential problem. Stewad asked if the funds would be monitored. Nasby stated that would be true. Any funds that are not used just roll over similar to the Old Brick project. However, the City would encourage that the funds be spent in a timely fashion. Correia asked how the CITY STEPS goals match with the City funds? Would traditional economic development types of projects have more favor because of the City's goal of improving the tax base versus issues low to moderate income folks may feel are more impodant. Lehman stated that his opinion is the funding would be less traditional, but he cannot speak for the rest of the Council. One less traditional need is a tremendous need for childcare, and these funds may be a great assistance to the community. Correia asked about just opening up the way the CDBG and Home funds are distributed to make the process less constricting. Schoon stated that the Commission sets these priorities, and there is a housing fund that has flexibility to continue. He said this Economic Development funding may be analogous to that. The Committee would have to consider where this funding fits as a priority within economic development when it recommends to City Council. Page asked if City staff was assuming that volunteers at Human Resources would be the ones who would be using the funds. Schoon stated that the Committee members would have to decide the ranking and recommend to City Council. Extend The Dream - Thomas Waltz Waltz stated he is the Associate Director of Extend The Dream Foundation, and a professor emeritus in Social Work. He introduced some of the VISTA volunteers, along with Ed Gaines and Marlin Wiskus, who are potential owners of businesses in the project; AI Helene, who is a professor from the Small Business Center at UI and monitors students who work on the project; Jeff Denberg from Coldwell Banker who can answer questions on the lease of the property. The project is requesting $125,000 as a rent subsidy for the property at 401 S. Gilbert St. They will locate five businesses to be operated by persons with disabilities in that building, generating 25- 30 employees who would be persons with disabilities. There will be a coffee shop and a tea shop, as well as a bookstore, a Houseworks, and consignments by downtown businesses. There will also be a student service center. Their intention is to create a model of commerce centered to serve staff as well as clients. Extend The Dream is run by a committee of small businessmen from Iowa City, and they utilize consultants from the Small Business Center. They would ultimately like to be in a position to pay their own rent down the line. Housing and Community Development Minutes February 13, 2001 Page 4 Renquist asked if Waltz could describe the organization's capacity to maintain compliance with federal, state and local regulations pertaining to the proposed project. Waltz stated this was a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a Director and Associate Director, staff consisting of mainly volunteers, an accountant, so they are well-staffed, but not a conventional agency. Stewart asked if after three years they will be able to pay the rent themselves. Waltz said their plan is to take a percentage of gross revenue for each business and place it into a fund that should build up to help offset the rents they will have to pay down the line. However, like low-income housing, low-income businesses are tough. They do believe they have a better than average opportunity to seek other support as well. They just received a grant from Teamsters Union. Holt asked about parking spaces. Edberg stated that there is a parking lot a block away, at the corner of Gilbert & Court, owned by the owner of the building and 8 parking spaces have been allocated for the exclusive use of the building. There is also metered parking in the vicinity. Waltz stated that the building is perfectly designed for their purposes. It is separated into sections, in excellent shape, and is accessible from the west side with large, accessible restrooms. Page asked whether, for leveraging, there are other funds that have been solidified. Waltz said they are working on some major fund efforts, but the only one they have heard from at this point is the Teamsters. Holt noted that here is a lot of in-kind. Waltz stated that the timing is much better than last year, to work with the foundation out of Williamsburg because they are really committed to disability development. Nasby asked how many FTE's (full-time equivalent persons) were planned. Waltz said that in five businesses, there were owners plus one FTE per, so probably 10 FTE persons. Most will be part-time. These are people who can't just walk in to Hy-Vee and get a job. Severson asked if this was a rental or property acquisition. Waltz confirmed that it is a rental. Severson asked if there was any hope they can purchase the building. Edberg said he didn't believe so. However, Waltz feels that the owners would be a more than reasonable landlord so long as they were reasonable tenants. Edberg stated that utilities, insurance, taxes, maintenance all would be included in the rent payments. Public health has been in to take a look and advise regarding their expectations. They could enter the building in April to work for 90 days before opening. 4Cs - Theresa Guither Theresa Guither introduced herself as the Director of 4Cs. Guither stated they provide referral services to parents and caregivers with regard to healthcare. Their project is to relocate the toy lending library and to make the building at 1500 Sycamore Street accessible. They have to relocate because they are losing their current space at the old public library building as of July 30, 2001. They provide basic classes to childcare givers - CPR, mandatory reporting of child abuse, universal precautions, child development. They currently are working with the Iowa City Economic Development in developing business plans for childcare givers. Renquist asked Guither to briefly describe the organization's capacity to maintain compliance with federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances pertaining to the proposed project. Housing and Community Development Minutes February 13, 2001 Page 5 Guither stated she assumes they will be able to comply fully because they currently get federal dollars. They monitor the child and adult food program, which is similar to the school lunch program. Holt asked if 4Cs owns the building at 1500 Sycamore Street. Guither stated yes, they have a mortgage of about $40,000 and they make monthly payments. Stewart asked if they give direct care. Guither advised that they operate six programs - one is Home Ties, which is a childcare center for children who are homeless or at risk for homelessness, but that is at another location. The 1500 Sycamore address is mostly administration and some training. Holt asked for a rough breakdown on who borrows the toys. Guither advised that they have a lot of providers who use the library, but the majority of users (80%) are parents who are low income. Gutting asked whether the classroom training is required by the state for the caregivers to remain licensed. Guither stated that was true. Page asked how the grant would help people gain self-sufficiency. Guither advised that the childcare providers are developing a business, so their services assist those caregivers. She stated that they would be able to have more toys. She did not know if they would expand their classes, but the building would be more accessible and would provide "one-stop shopping" for the caregivers. There is bus service and free parking. Stewart asked about their use of volunteers. Guither stated they have a small, dedicated pool of volunteers. All board members are volunteers, and some of the caregivers volunteer at the toy library. The Home Ties program has about 60 volunteers during the course of a year, counting students and community members. Most of the toys are donations, and are developmentally appropriate. Toys are checked out for two weeks at a time. Schmuch asked if they were given partial funding, how would that affect the project? Guither advised that she was not able to fully answer that, because their bid is very close to what they asked for. They have a reserve, but the Board has not indicated that they would be willing to use it for this service. Page asked if they would not be able to move the toy library if partial funding was made; were there other locations available. Guither said they checked into that before making this application, and they could not afford to pay rent because of the mortgage on their building. Page asked if other area businesses would be willing to provide "sponsorship". Guither stated that she has contacted the Gannett foundation, who helped initially to purchase the toys to set up the library. She is willing to look into that. United Action for Youth - Jim Swaim Swaim stated they have a proposal to acquire some additional youth center space for services for young people. Their agency provides counseling, intervention programs, and prevention and youth development programs. They have been at 410 Iowa Ave. since 1987, which was acquired with help from a CDBG grant. Their board has explored several properties, and would like to acquire the Boyrum Street property across from Yen Ching. The asking price is $1 million, and they are trying to negotiate for significantly less than that. They have doubled their Housing and Community Development Minutes February 13, 2001 Page 6 numbers since they began. They served about 2200 people and about 400 families in the last year. The key element is this project addresses high priority for youth center space, as identified in the City Steps as a high priority. Their teen parent program also serves children. The house next door to the 410 Iowa Ave. property is owned and used by UAY, but is not a licensable facility for child care. They are licensed to do respite care, which allows four children at a time, but the parents must be somewhere in the vicinity. They have not yet made a purchase offer. They have received surveys from clients as well as focus groups and private meetings, are surveying parents and volunteers and students, and have been meeting with agency providers. Holt asked about increasing the concentration of services of people on the south side, whether that would be ghetto-izing that area. Swaim stated he did not feel that, but it is an issue he has been consulting with people about. A lot of their clients walk to the facility. Their client base for the last four years has been more concentrated with City High and Southeast students, but they do serve kids from the other population centers. Holt asked about the feedback from parents regarding transportation. Swaim stated there is a sheltered bus stop in front of the building. He said they want to be more informed about these issues before making a purchase offer. He stated that they need more space, and one possibility is the business office and teen parent program. The staff of the teen parent program feel it is important to keep that program near the youth center environment. Space in their current neighborhood would run $100 to $120 per square foot; space in the new Tower Plaza runs $130 per square foot. Space at the Boyrum location would likely cost $30-$50 per square foot. Correia asked whether the church next to Bruegger's Bagels, which is going to be up for sate (First Christian), would be less expensive. Swaim stated that space could possibly be less expensive, and their board is looking at that, but there is no parking and no childcare. The advantage of the Boyrum space is that they could give up their downtown property and move all facilities into one location. Renquist asked if their organization is in compliance with federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances. Swaim stated it is, and that this project would help them meet more of the spirit of the law in terms of ADA compliance. Stewart stated he was concerned about their board not yet having made a decision on the right way to go, and because of that, if UAY decided not to proceed there is funding that some very good agencies could have been allocated. Swaim clarified that his board has authorized them to apply for this with the notion that if it's possible to make an offer, they would do so. Realistically, they have not had adequate time to do proper surveying, and the nature of the property being available necessitated an application at this time. The board has authorized them to meet with the property owner and explore making a purchase offer. Schmuch asked if they have a timeline for when these decisions might progress. Swaim stated the board meets again in two weeks, and they plan to devote most of the board meeting deciding whether it is time to make a purchase offer. Swaim stated he would notify the commission if a decision was made not to make a purchase offer. The problem he sees is that the board could decide they are very serious about the project but not ready to make a purchase offer at their next board meeting. They are aware that someone else could come in and purchase the property. Stewart stated it was his understanding that the $600,000 equity would stem from sale of the Iowa Avenue properties. Housing and Community Development Minutes February 13, 2001 Page 7 Swaim said he would like to focus on the building plans as providing a great space for their project, even though they would prefer a space downtown. GICHF-Student Built House - MaNann Dennis Dennis introduced herself as the executive director of Greater Iowa City Housing Fellowship, and Dennis Spencer from the Home Builder's Association. She announced that the Community Land program of GICHF made the Fannie Mae newsletter. GICHF is requesting $30,000 of City Home funds to purchase a lot for the Student Built House to be sold as part of GICHF's community land trust programs. This program instructs young people in the building trades; provides area high school students with scholarships and equipment to pursue careers in the building trades; provides an affordable homeowner opportunity for a low income first-time home- buyer; and fosters public-private partnerships. The partners include GICHF, the City of Iowa City, the IC Community School District, the Home Builder's Association and local lenders. They have used Home funds from the City in the past to acquire lots. The current house, at the corner of High Street and Morningside, will be sold in early June. The house they choose to build will be built and sold within the school year. The program sells the home without selling the land; the home buyer enters into a 99 year renewable land lease with GICHF. This lowers the cost of the home for the buyer. In 2000, GICHF sold three newly constructed detached single-family homes for less than $100,000. Spencer stated that the program allows students to build a home, learn skills related to construction, and encourages students to consider a career in the building trades. Their members volunteer their time at the sites. This includes both City High and West High schools, and has included Lone Tree in the past. There are currently 29 students involved directly in building the house, but there are also 30 students involved in the design, interior design and those types of activities. They have a job shadowing program that goes along with the program in which students can go with a contractor or subcontractor for one day each week for about a month. They have won an award at the international convention, and were featured in USA Today. Renquist stated she knows GICHF has been previously funded, and asked if the organization complies to federal, state and local la. ws, regulations and ordinances. Dennis stated that they do comply. Stewart stated that they just gave $25,000 to this organization late last year. He feels this is a double bang for the buck on this deal with the students being able to build the housing. Spencer stated that the program is 29 years old, and the Home Builder's Association has been involved for two years. Dennis stated that it also leverages a lot of in-kind support from the Home Builders and professionals in the trade. Schmuch asked if they have a lot yet. Dennis stated they do not have a lot as yet, but she is aware of a lot available in Southpoint off Sycamore for sale which may be more reasonably priced than others available. GICHF-Peninsula - Man/ann Dennis Dennis advised that GICHF is requesting $623,467 of City HOME funds to develop affordable rental housing in the Peninsula neighborhood. This is a unique opportunity in a planned community. GICHF and the Iowa City Housing Authority are excited about partnering to accomplish some of the major goals set by the City Council, including affordable housing on the Housing and Community Development Minutes February 13, 2001 Page 8 front end of the neighborhood development with a mix of housing types and property values. This will add 19 units of affordable rental housing to the market. The request is a 1% loan, interest only payments with a balloon after 20 years. GICHF and the City Housing Authority will acquire lots at a 10% discount and construct 19 units of affordable housing, with GICHF as the developer of the project. The plans include a 12-unit accessible apartment building: four two- bedroom units and eight one-bedroom units. In addition, plans include three three-bedroom townhouse units and two three-bedroom duplex buildings. Ownership of the 12-unit apartment building will be transferred to the Housing Authority after receiving certificate of occupancy. Rents are set at FMR to be affordable to households with 50% or less than the area median income, with affordability for the life of the properties. GICHF has a policy that once their debt is retired, they reduce the rents. The City funds will leverage over $1.5 million from other sources. The properties receive property tax exemptions, however, the Housing Fellowship and the Housing Authority both make voluntary payments in lieu of taxes of about 25%. Firstar has indicated they will provide private construction financing; a State of Iowa HOME Funds application has been submitted; the Federal Home Loan Bank application is due in April. City of Iowa City support is required to receive any State Home funds. Stewart asked for clarification on the payback on this project. Charlie Eastham advised that they would be paying 1% interest each year for the first 20 years. The principal due at the end of 20 years would' be the principal borrowed. Stewart said it was his understanding that would give back somewhere between 3-7 points, not just the minimum of 3 points. Gutting asked if they could accept partial funding. Dennis said that would depend on how much the partial funding would be. If they don't receive full funding from the City HOME Fund, that would have a ripple effect for the remaining sources of funds. Eastham stated they developed the financing for the project with a view toward reducing the amount of local Home Funds to the minimum necessary for the project. Renquist asked if this organization complies with federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances for previously funded CDBG and HOME Funds. Dennis stated that they do. Eastham commented that this was a three-year long process, and this plan has included rental housing so that anyone in Iowa City who chooses to live in this development will be able to live there. Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity - Nancy Stensvaacl Mary Gute, a PCD intern, helped to write the grant along with a couple of fellow students. Habitat is asking for $75,000 to purchase three lots to build single-family homes which will be sold to Iowa City residents who fall within 31% to 50% of the Iowa City median income. These homes are valued around $50,000. Stewart noted that Habitat has been funded before. Long stated that 2-3 years ago they provided funding from CDBG funds. Gute stated that they were able at that time to purchase four lots with the funding instead of three, so they do try to stretch the funds as far as possible. Schmuch asked about the accessibility issue of the homes. Gute stated she understands that Habitat builds based on the needs of the family selected. Holt asked if the families have been selected yet. Gute stated that families for these three houses have not been selected. Accessibility needs are not a requirement for selection. Housing and Community Development Minutes February 13, 2001 Page 9 Renquist asked if partial funding could be accepted. Gute stated that partial funding would mean fewer lots would be purchased. Schmuch asked if there is a site in mind. Gute stated that no sites have been selected at this time. Habitat tries to build throughout the community and not concentrate in any one area, but it depends on the cost of the lots. Renquist asked if Habitat has been in compliance with the federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances for previously funded CDBG and Home funds. Gute stated that as far as she knows, they are. Nasby asked if any groups were currently participating, such as local churches. Gute stated she was not aware of fundraising, but she does know that Habitat is seeking multiple funding sources. There is a lot of in-kind, donated labor and materials which keeps the amount actually spent down. Eaqles' Fligqht, Inc. - Beleta Rush Beteta Rush introduced herself as the program manager with Victory Temple. Their project, which started two years ago, helps minority women and girls with health issues. They have provided blood drives, physical assessments with Colleges of Nursing, Public Health, Medicine, and have sought input through seminars, in-service sessions, community drive. The program is proposing hiring a program assistant to work for 12 months for further development and expansion of a community-based youth operated garden, as well as hiring two supervisors and 18 youth workers primarily from low- to moderate-income families between the ages of 9-22. The plan is to further develop and expand the health education and promotion services to women and girls from culturally, ethically and racially diverse populations in Johnson County. Renquist asked the applicant to describe the organization's capacity to maintain compliance with federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances pertaining to the proposed project. Rush responded that they have a volunteer staff with experience in regulations and research, formulating grants, setting up protocols, universal precautions. In addition, they utilize University professionals as advisers in grants and protocols. She has also been working with the office of Small Business and Development as well as TIA-CREF. Correia asked if these would be the first paid staff persons of the organization. Rush responded that the backbone of the program is volunteerism with occasional consultants. This gives the students a chance to interact with participants. They currently have over 100 students involved, staff and faculty from the University, and about 10 community organizations that work with them. Schmuch asked if they are a r~on-profit organization. Rush stated that was true. She stated they are in the process of obtaining 501(c)(3). Stewart requested clarification of where the private funds of $57,300 comes from. Rush stated that they received various grants. Severson asked for more information regarding the fundraiser they propose. Rush brought a brochure called the Healthy Me program, and the proceeds go to benefit the Victory Temple Minority Women's Health Initiative. They are organizing sponsors and 100 teams of six members. They project $55,000 will be raised. They have received in-kind donations already and expect their costs to be minimal. Housing and Community Development Minutes February 13, 2001 Page 10 Renquist asked if they had contacted the Family Planning Clinic. Rush believes they are on the mailing list, which they are compiling and mailing. Renquist advised that they do free medical exams on the Hispanic population, and suggested that perhaps the group could work up a grant with the Family Planning Clinic. Nasby advised that these monies would not be available until July Ist, and asked if they would be able to begin their presentation as proposed in April without these funds. Rush advised they anticipate being able to start in April because they can use some of the grant monies they already have received. Schmuch asked where their garden spot is located. Rush stated they use the garden that the City has in Wetherby Park. They propose to do two lots this year. Schmuch asked how they choose the kids they use in the program. Rush stated they will go through the Neighborhood Centers, the schools, and community centers, and would like to open up to any children who want to be involved. EmerClency Housincl Project - Crissv Canqanelli Canganetli advised that the EHP is Johnson County's only general use homeless shelter. The three core programs relevant to this request are: emergency and transitional shelter (provided shelter to 780 persons last year); drop-in center (from 5-10pm nightly providers showers, laundry, food, clothing & toiletries, and mailing address and phone); in-house counseling program (in 2000 they assisted about 600 individuals in progressing toward economic self- sufficiency and independence. These individuals have access to the shelter for up to 90 days). The request for one full-time services coordinator is substantiated by recent HUD reports, indicating that roughly 60% of homeless suffer from alcohol and drug-related problems, nearly 60% suffer from mental health problems, and 60% of the homeless suffer from both. The shelter is open 24 hours a day on weekdays. Renquist asked if the group was in compliance with federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances pertaining to the proposed project. Canganelli responded they were. Stewart asked if they utilize volunteers. Canganelli responded that they utilize a lot of students and other volunteers. The Board consists of many volunteers. She said the Board has started to assist with administrative tasks. They are looking to the Board to handle tasks like deposits and bills and answering the phones during the day. Renquist asked about benefits for the two health care individuals. Canganelli said yes, benefits will be available. Currently most employees have benefits. Schmuch asked if they received help from the GICHF program regarding rental deposits. Canganelli responded that this program exists and they make referrals, but 95% of people going through the shelter don't quality for the program. Renquist asked about Section 8 funds. Canganelli said the clients are eligible for Housing Certificate vouchers but the voucher doesn't assist with the security deposit. But there are many individuals who for some reason don't quality for public housing. Severson asked about the sustainability of their programs. Canganelli stated they were trying to investigate other resources. They have been trying to avoid going to the same organizations each year for assistance. They are hoping to work with landlords to secure the security deposit Housing and Community Development Minutes February 13, 2001 Page 11 so that when the person moves out of the apartment, the deposit would be reinstated back to Emergency Housing. They are also seeking contributions to specific programs through local suppod. Stewart asked about the reimbursement of deposits. Canganelli stated that they don't count on the households to repay, that it's up to the landlords to commit to return the deposit. Stewart stated that if the household does not have to personally repay the deposit, it doesn't put the onus on the person to take care of the property. Canganelli stated that was not necessarily true because of the relationship the family has with the agency. Canganelli stated they were also trying to establish a relationship with landlords in the community. Family Services, Inc.- Denise Gampat Gampat stated the program is making a specific request for consumer credit counseling. This grant would pay the counseling and subsidize ongoing help if needed for low-income households. They had 366 inquiries last fiscal year, and have had about 200 inquiries so far in this one-half year. Last fiscal year they provided 135 appointments; so far in six months they have had 97 appointments. Last fiscal year they set up 34 new clients in the debt management program; already in this six months they have had approximately 50 new clients join that program. This does not include the students th'rough the facility on campus. Currently they collect about $5.89 per client out of the $20 initial assessment; $14.48 per client out of the $25 fee that sets them up in the debt management program; and $6.38 per client as far as ongoing fees in the debt management program. Their goals are to strengthen individuals, families and the community by financial education, debt management services, and helping clients find and implement solutions to their financial problems, and improve their financial situation, regardless of the clienrs ability to pay. An upcoming activity is a technology upgrade which will cost $2,000-$3,000 for each office, which will bring increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Schmuch asked if the CDBG funding would all go to 50% or lower median income. Gampat responded that was true, and they do see some clients who are over 100% of area median income. Stewart asked if they were non-profit. Gampat stated yes, they had 501 (c)(3) status. Renquist asked if they were in compliance with federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances pertaining to the proposed project. Gampat stated they were in compliance.' Stewart asked how they utilize volunteers. Gampat stated they have volunteers who help with accounting, office help, board members, an advisory counsel, and who help with some of the educational programs. Stewart asked how they advertise. Gainpat said they rely on word of mouth currently. They do keep track of how the clients come to them. They belong to the National Foundation for Credit Counseling and receive referrals from that agency. Stewart asked how the agency worked as far as helping the client reduce debt. Gainpat explained how they contact creditors and arrange agreed-upon payments. Holt asked how many of these clients declare bankruptcy. Gainpat responded that 20%, more or less, have to take bankruptcy. Their clients average $24,000 to $27,000 unsecured debt, and 17 months is the average amount of time it takes in the program to get out of debt. Housing and Community Development Minutes February 13, 2001 Page 12 Neiqhborhood Centers of Johnson County - Brian Lorincl Loring presented a brief overview of the agency. They have two centers in Iowa City that focus on the needs of the neighborhood (Pheasant Ridge and Broadway). The centers try to deliver the needs of the neighborhood into daycare. They are required to utilize a Title XX childcare block grant, which doesn't provide a lot of funds. They also receive block grants from United Way and through the City and County. They need to make some upgrades due to accreditation requirements. Stewart asked how they utilize volunteers. Loring stated that volunteers are used extensively, a lot who work with school age children in mentoring and tutoring programs. They do not have a lot of volunteers in day care, but would use them if available. Page asked if they could work with partial funding. Loring said the carpet, library, community space, and playground shade are not a top priority. Most of the classroom and playground equipment is required. Gutting asked if Loring could explain their national accreditation review. Loring stated they are accredited through the National Association for the Education of the Young Child, and have a three year visit/review on facilities. They are up for review this year, and they do look at the facility and how well it is maintained. Loring handed out some documents to the committee. Renquist asked if the group complies with federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances. Loring stated they do comply. Stewart moved to adjourn. Page seconded. The meeting adjourned. Kathleen Renquist, Chairperson Minutes submitted by Neana Saylor HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION ~) TUESDAY, FEBUARY 15, 2001 ~' SENIOR CENTER LOWER LEVEL MEMBERS PRESENT: April Gutting, William Stewart, Lucia Mai Page, Kathleen Renquist, Gretchen Schmuch, Amy Correia, Gretchen Holt, Rick House, Denita Gadson STAFF PRESENT: Steve Nasby, Angela Williams, Lolita Charron, Stephen Long, Linda Severson OTHERS PRESENT: David Schoon, Jeanne Kelsey, Gary Smith, David Brown, Catherine Lane, Dave Sears, Jesse Burns, Laura Crossley, Sharla Berg, Aaron Rempp, Jack McMahon, Chris Bergren, Chris Kinkead, Theresa Kopatich, Jo Benson-Vorwald, Dan Stromer, Deon Oliver, Stacy Gray, Bob Burns, Alaina Welsh, Kymbyrly Koester CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Renquist called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM FEBRUARY 13, 2001: PUBLIC/MEMBER DISCUSSION OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA: Schmuch reported that she had an update on the monitoring report. The organization is looking at a different property that wilt not have some of the difficulties of the Church having to get some loans, etc. This would be a properly licensed daycare for 34 children, and the property is on Sheridan Avenue. This building would already be available to suit the organization's needs. Gutting reported that the Free Medical Clinic has utilized $10,202.69 of their funding. They are currently looking to fill the position for nurse case manager. House reported that the ISED program is off to a slow start but is moving along pretty well. They are setting up classes for the home based child care services. Eagle Flight is using this organization for some consulting and guidance. They have spent about $5,700 to date. Gadson reported that the Lexington Place has expended no money to date because they are still waiting for an agreement from the City. They have a building permit, all the financing is in place. They have been awarded low income tax credits. The project is on schedule, and they have already had calls for rental applications and they are about 9 months away from construction. OLD BUSINESS: None. Housing and Community Development Minutes Februa~ 15,2001 Page 2 NEW BUSINESS: None. REVIEW OF FY01 APPLICATIONS FOR CDBG/HOME FUNDING: Linda Severson introduced herself as the Human Services Coordinator for Johnson County Council of Governments. She works with human service agencies. Renquist explained that applicants would have approximately 5 minutes to make their presentation and 10 minutes to answer questions by the commission. MetroPlains - Jeanne Kelsev Kelsey stated that this proposal was also submitted last year, but they did not have site control at that time. In the summer, they applied for Affordable Housing funds and were recommended to City Council and received the funds. They applied for housing tax credits for the site. Their proposal is for 30 duplex rental homes in Village Green Commons. She handed out a document showing the rental structure for the proposal. They plan to elect the maximum affordability period of 41 years so they can maximize their scoring, and their commitment to the community. All rents will be at fair market rent or less. Two market studies were done on this proposal, one by this committee and one by the agency. Stewart asked about the 1% simple interest on the loan with a balloon payment on the end. Kelsey stated that they are planning an interest payment only. Correia asked where this project would be located. Kelsey stated it was west of Scott Boulevard behind the other existing duplexes that are owner-occupied. Correia asked if the bus goes out there, and Kelsey responded that the bus does go up and down Scott Boulevard. Schmuch asked if these duplexes would be open to anyone, or what are the qualifications. Kelsey stated it was income qualification. Renquist asked if any of the units would be accessible. Kelsey stated two of the units will be accessible, with a bedroom on the main floor with a loft above. The bathroom would be made a full bath, ADA approved. Nasby asked for a clarification on the FMR values over the 41 year period. Kelsey stated they will fill out the Land Use Restrictive Covenant when they apply for tax credits. Stewart asked about the use of volunteers in their organization. Kelsey stated that they have been talking with HACAP, and they have services available for Head Start, daycare, etc. wherein MetroPlains will be a referral for them in their program to work with people with financial difficulty. Their volunteerism will be mostly through social services that will be provided for the residents by other agencies. Long mentioned that those efforts do not count as use of volunteers since those organizations are providing paid staff. Renquist asked Kelsey to describe the agency's capacity to maintain compliance with federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances pertaining to the proposed project. Kelsey stated that MetroPlains has been developing affordable housing for 23 years. They own and Housing and Community Development Minutes February 15, 2001 Page 3 operate every one of their developments. Their management company (Garston Perennial Management) handles everything to keep MetroPlains under compliance. Nasby asked about the schedule for tax credit allocation awards. Kelsey said it is in the hearing process; will be finalized by April 11; application deadline is June 11; and award is supposed to happen within 60 days of application. Holt asked if the families who move in are required to have children. Kelsey stated they cannot rent to full-time students because of Section 42 guidelines. Incomes are based upon how many people are in the family, so income limits go up as you have more people in the family and that's how they income qualify them for the limits. DVIP Furniture Project - Chris Berfiren, Chris Kinkead Chris Kinkead introduced herself and Chris Bergren. This project distributes donated furniture to families who are referred by other human services agencies. Referrals this year have doubled from last year. They now request a $5 donation from people donating furniture, and they have raised $936 to date. They also ask for a donation from people picking up furniture, but that is not as successful. Kinkead stated that DVIP has applied for CDBG funds in the past for the furniture project. The project does not fit into the normal range of projects for traditional funding. They do utilize volunteers for moving furniture, but it's not a popular volunteer activity. Last year they hired an 8-hour a week person. Stewart asked about the shape of the furniture they pick up. Bergren stated they will not pick up anything that is ripped, stained, dirty, or in bad shape. Stewart asked what percent they have to turn down. Bergren stated it is very minimal because she clarifies on the phone first what she can take. They work with an appliance store locally to clean up and repair appliances and place a warranty on them. Schmuch asked if they were expecting the City contribution again this year. Kinkead stated they are, but don't know the amount yet. Bergren stated she hopes to move into the new storage facility by the end of summer or early fall. Renquist asked if there would be a hardship on people who need the service to get to the new location. Bergren stated that was one of her concerns, but she's not sure. If she has enough volunteers and time, she can deliver items to people. Nasby asked how many projects similar to this she is aware of. Bergren stated that there were only about 35 projects like this two years ago in the United States. They work as a group to help each other with questions and funding. Kinkead said they don't know of any other projects like this in eastern Iowa or in all of Iowa. Renquist asked if they get any money from the County. Kinkead stated that DVIP does get funding from the County but the furniture project does not. DVIP does receive United Way funds. Most of that funding is geared toward victims of crime. They use the United Way dollars as discretionary funds to help with the furniture project (about $6,000 per year). Housing and Community Development Minutes February 15, 2001 Page 4 Renquist asked if the organization is in compliance with federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances for previously funded CDBG or Home funding projects. Kinkead stated yes. Successful Living -Theresa Kopatich Kopatich stated they are requesting assistance to develop a part-time staff position for a licensed social worker who will specialize in working with persons with mental illness issues. They have seen an increase in working with people with really severe chronic illnesses (75%). Successful Living currently has a substance abuse counselor ¼ time, and a full-time assistant, which allows an increase of revenues and an increase in clients. This organization helps stabilize the clients and then channel them into the community to work with community agencies. Holt asked how the organization fits in with IMPACT, which is a similar home-based process. Kopatich stated that IMPACT provides services to people living in the community. If they are living in Successful Living houses, this organization provides the services. They did work with IMPACT when they started the agency. The people monitoring the funding for IMPACT said that this is a conflict of services and they cannot utilize both programs. Severson asked who was managing the severely mentally ill people healthwise. Kopatich stated that most of the people who come in don't have a physician or anyone. Successful Living staff works to develop a relationship with the client and then takes them to appointments and hook them up with Community Mental Health or the University to stabilize on medicalions and evaluate. If a person meets the criteria for Chapter 24 funding, then they talk with the County about getting that funding. Some of these people have not developed a place of residency, and there are other barriers to getting them hooked up for that funding source. Holt asked who on staff has the qualifications to evaluate these people. Kopatich stated that they have a masters substance abuse level person, and all the staff has a background in social work or psychology. The position they are seeking would be a licensed social worker with expertise in working with persons with mental illness. Currently, their staff evaluates and arranges medical appointments, but this process takes valuable time. A staff position would help them make it more successful for the people coming into the program. Williams asked what percent of full-time employee they are asking for. Kopatich said they want half-time. Renquist asked if their salaried individuals have health benefits. Kopatich said as of January 1 they were able to start offering health benefits. Renquist asked if the organization is in compliance with federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances for previously funded CDBG or Home funding projects. Kopatich stated yes. Correia asked if they mean licensed independent social worker or someone who could have just graduated and gotten their license but don't have their independent license yet. Kopatich said that would be negotiable to them at this point. They want someone licensed and experienced in working with persons with mental illness. Housing and Community Development Minutes February 15, 2001 Page 5 Stewart asked if the funding they are seeking is enough to get the position filled. Kopatich stated the actual position would be about $18,000; Successful Living would pick up the difference, and they feel it would be enough to get that part-time position started. She feels that if they can get the position started, they could make it full-time by next year. Severson asked if they had other funding sources. Kopatich stated that this position is new, so it is something they need more help with starting, but they have developed the funding to keep the full-time person they have now on. They have added another full-time caseworker, so Successful Living has worked to increase wages for other staff, They are checking other resources. Pathways, Inc. - Jo Benson-Vorwald, Dan Stromer Benson-Vorwald introduced Dan Stromer, the executive director of Pentacrest and Abbey, Inc. (an affiliate of Pentacrest). Stromer advised that adult day health centers provide a variety of services to challenged adults and frail seniors to help them remain independent in the community. The individuals Pathways helps are 18 and over with a variety of physical and psychological challenges, and frail seniors. This project seeks CDBG funds to assist in purchase of a building at 817-825 Pepperwood Lane to relocate their program and expand services to the community. Currently, they have been leasing space on Greenwood Drive since 1995. Pentacrest, Inc., a local 503(c)(3) assumed the administrative responsibility for Pathways in 1996. They have to relocate because the space they are currently in is being expanded to assisted living in the spring. They would expect to serve 35-40 people daily at their new site; now they serve 21 daily. They use a sliding fee scale. Their goals are to increase access to affordable alternatives to institutionalization, increase the number of frail seniors and challenged adults served to 35-40 per day, provide respite for caregivers, and to retain the quality of service. They would like a combination of CDBG funding, in-loan funding, board fundraiSing and a mortgage to purchase and renovate the property. They are currently leasing and renovating the property. Renquist asked if the organization is in compliance with federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances for previously funded CDBG or Home funding projects. Stromer stated that Abbey, Inc. is a management service organization that provides services to five not- for-profits, including Pathways, so they can focus on the day-to-day adult health care. Abbey, Inc. manages the grants and makes sure the conditions of this type of project are met. Page asked what other funding they are seeking. Stromer stated that Board fundraising is one- third of the funding, CDBG funding would be one-third, and the mortgage would make up the remaining one-third Benson-Vorwald stated they are also pursuing a community awareness plan. Stewart asked how volunteers are utilized. Benson-Vorwald stated there are many different kinds of volunteers in the organization. They utilize the University practicums and internships. They also utilize individuals who come to them volunteering. They have a daily volunteer who assist in nutrition needs and monitors the dementia clients. Correia asked if it is a fee for service, and if it was covered by health insurance. Stromer said it was a combination of funding - in Iowa it is a combination of fee for service, sliding fee scales, with a per-diem of $45 per day. The minimum is $10 per day. The funds are subsidized by United Way, Johnson County. Long-term care insurance is also starting to cover these services. Benson-Vorwald stated that 35% right now are private pay. Housing and Community Development Minutes February 15, 2001 Page 6 Nasby asked if they have a time frame to raise the Board funds. Catherine Lane responded that their first effort is community awareness. They have approximately $4,500 and have done nothing from fund raising yet. They have received gifts from student organizations to pay for appliances. Schmuch asked what happens if these funds don't come through by July 1st when their lease runs out. Stromer stated that they would have to re*evaluate what they can afford in a lease arrangement because they would not be purchasing the facility or renovating the entire facility. This would limit the type of participant they can serve. Schmuch asked if they were maxed in terms of space? Benson-Vorwald said it was not a space issue, it was the needs of the client. They can't accept Alzheimer's and dementia clients in the numbers they would like to serve because of staff limitations. Stromer stated that caregivers many times have to do bathing, etc. They need to design an area for those services and more people would use them for respite. Stewart asked whether there was any reason they couldn't structure this as a declining balance lien over 10 years? Nasby said that was simply their request. Stewart's concern was that if the facility was sold in five years, the project would have to pay back some monies. Holt asked if there was any thought of increasing the number of days they are open each year. Benson-Vorwald said if the need was there, they would address it. They survey annually clients, families and referral sources. Stewart asked if they had received funding from CDBG before. Stromer stated that before they started operating the program, there was a grant of $100,000 but was not used. EIder Services, Inc. - Connie Benton-Wolf Gary Smith introduced himself and Jack McMahon, supervisors of the Housing Repair and Modification Program for EIder Services, Inc. This project serves persons 62+ years in age. They seek an increase in funding this year. In FY2000 they served 37 households, completing 60 projects. So far this year, they have served 30 households, completing 49 projects. They have billed the City approximately 50% of the funds that have been allocated. They need an increase in funds because of the need for housing repair in the community. This year was a hard winter, and for that reason there will be a higher need for repairs. There is only 16% of the budget left for these repairs. In addition, they have altered their guidelines to comply with the housing rehab guidelines, which has increased the demand. Expenditures for FY2001 include: mean expenditure of $366.34 per household; median expenditure of $230.97 per household; high expense was $1,193.28; low was $82.43. Renquist asked if the organization is in compliance with federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances for previously funded CDBG or Home funding projects. Smith stated yes. McMahon stated that the new lead based paint requirements will be affecting them because they deal primarily with older homes. Correia asked how they use volunteers. Smith stated they cannot use volunteers because of liability issues and all the paperwork. They have worked some in-kind elements into the program. The contractors are used efficiently as well. Schmuch asked if the board was volunteers. Smith stated yes, that was true. Housing and Communi~ Development Minutes Februa~ 15,2001 Page 7 Stewart asked whether any efforts to secure other funding have been sought. Smith said he believes CDBG is a very important source of funds for Iowa City and they serve a function that is unparalleled. They also seek other funding options. Smith has used Elderly Waiver funds. There are limitations on those funds and a $1,000 cap. Also, they use SLT funds through the Heritage Area Agency on Aging. They utilize these funds when they identify a person who would qualify for those funds. The CDBG funds are used for those who don't qualify for special funding. They also have designated funds from private sources. Schmuch asked for a general idea of what something might cost and what they do to keep the cost down. McMahon responded that a plumber may charge $50-$60 for grab bars, and they try to locate the item for $35. He knows the skill levels of contractors, and will use the appropriate one for the job to maximize the job. Smith stated that some contractors give them a discount for all work done through this project. Nasby asked if all the homes are owner-occupied. Smith stated that some rental modifications were authorized with prior approval of the landlord, but that is the minority. Nasby stated that the people they assist pay property taxes. Salvation Army (Rehab) - Deon Oliver, David Sears Oliver introduced himself and Dave Sears. Oliver stated that they try to provide affordable housing to low-income people and those who need assistance without compromising that level of housing. They are asking for funds for renovation to lower and maintain the rate they charge (75% of the fair market value is the goal). Sears added that they purchased a building a couple of years ago in which three apartments were included. They would like to renovate the apartments because the maintenance level is poor. If they used general funds, they would have to recover the renovation costs through the rent. They would prefer to keep rent where it is so they can slowly drop the rent down. Stewad asked if the apartments are handicapped accessible. Sears stated they were not. Correia asked how many bedrooms there are. Oliver stated there are two two-bedrooms and one one-bedroom. The rents are $450 for single and $550 for two bedroom. Sears stated one apartment is currently being used by the Olivers. The Salvation Army moves officers at shod notice, so they allow an officer a provided apartment. They will be moved off-site as soon as a home is located. Renquist asked if the organization is in compliance with federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances for previously funded CDBG or Home funding projects. Sears stated yes. Stewart asked how they utilize volunteers. Sears stated the Salvation Army uses many volunteers. Sears stated their mortgage is locked in at 5% rate, so as they pay that down they will retire it in 5-6 years and will be in a position to drop the rents further. The apartments have central air, dishwasher, microwave, refrigerator and stove. Housing and Community Development Minutes February 15, 2001 Page 8 Renquist asked if the organization is in compliance with federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances for previously funded CDBG or Home funding projects. Sears stated yes, to their knowledge. Schmuch asked if they will accept housing vouchers from the Iowa City Housing Authority. Sears stated that was their preference, but the problem will be as rents go lower they will attract some people who are not low income but are just looking for a good deal, so they have to assure they hit our target group. They don't want to face discrimination charges, so they have to be very careful in screening applicants. Stewart asked if they use volunteers in the program. Oliver stated they have around 7 volunteers each day doing a variety of work. Salvation Army (Deer Meat) - Deon Oliver, David Sears Oliver stated that last year deer meat distribution was for the low-income, needy and they had to prove that. This year, everyone in Johnson County will benefit. They have received 363 applications and have served 1,532 people in only three distributions to date. Sears stated that the committee should be familiar with the program. The Salvation Army feels that if the shoot is going ahead and they can utilize the meat to help low-income people, then they will do so. Stewart asked if there are income requirements. Oliver stated there will be no income requirements for the coming distribution. Nasby stated there was federal money involved the first time around and they had to meet those requirements. This year there is no federal money involved, so the distribution is open to anyone. Correia asked if they could generate income by asking for donations. Sears stated that in the first two distributions, they did not request any donations because of the federal funding. Correia asked whether, without the income restrictions and federal funding, they felt they could ask for donations. Sears stated they want to be careful because some of the funds for processing are coming from outside the Salvation Army and that funding is paying for it. The storage, and the cost of staff traveling to and from the locker to pick up the meat are covered by general donations to the Salvation Army. They have received donations from people who offer. Schmuch asked if they had spoken to any other businesses who may be willing to help sponsor this project either with funds or storage, etc. Sears stated they have not asked businesses directly. He understands Solon Meat Locker has given a substantial reduction on their meat processing costs the first two years, but he doesn't know if that will be a factor this year. Sears stated that he would advise Oliver not to seek sponsorship of this program, because it is controversial. Seeking sponsorships would draw attention to it and draw the Salvation Army into the issue. Their position is that the shoot is going ahead anyway, so they want to help the poor. They want to be in the background. Renquist pointed out that there are recipes developed by the Extension service that are provided with the meat. All the meat provided is ground meat. House asked if there are other organizations that distribute the meat also, such as centers. Oliver said they do distribute to the Crisis Centers, Free Lunch, Boy Scouts, churches and various other groups. Housing and Community Development Minutes February 15, 2001 Page 9 Hillcrest Family Services - StacV Gray Gray advised that her supervisor, Julie Woodguard, intended to be here to present but she is ill. Hillcrest is requesting funds for the Boarding House. This is a transitional facility that serves 9 individuals who have chronic mental illness coming from a group home or hospital setting. They have had the home since 1988, and have been trying to keep up with repairs. The requested funds will renovate the second floor bathroom. as well as tuckpointing the foundation. Renquist asked if the organization is in compliance with federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances for previously funded CDBG or Home funding projects. Gray stated yes. Renquist asked how this program compares to Successful Living. Gray replied that their program is designed specifically for people with chronic mental illness. She said she believes they have the same kind of goals. Holt asked if they have a lot of connections with other organizations that serve mentally ill in the community. Gray stated they do work with many agencies in the community. Stewart asked how they utilize volunteers. Gray advised that they don't use volunteers with the boarding house because of confidentiality issues. Some of the issues are very personal and very intense, and they feel it is best to keep that with the staff. The Hillcrest Board is comprised of volunteers. They have also utilized volunteers with the group home. Severson asked what kinds of rents they would be charged with. Gray stated they charge room and board. Board is $175 per month which includes food and utilities; rent is $260 for a single room and $180 for a double room. Schmuch asked if they received assistance from SSDI or SSI. Gray stated both. Nasby asked how much confidence they have in the bid information. Gray stated they had a contractor come in prior to the funding application, so they are confident. Schmuch asked how long they planned to stay in this house. Gray stated they are planning on staying where they are. Foxboro Ridqe/Emerson Point - Bob Burns, Jesse Burns, Alaina Welsh Bob Burns introduced himself, Jesse Burns and Alaina Welsh, the architects and developers for Foxboro Ridge and Emerson Point. He stated they would combine the two presentations. Jesse Burns stated that these are affordable rental housing projects with support services consisting of 30 dwelling units that will be rented at fair market rent ($395 for one-bedroom and $508 for two- bedroom). They do accept Section 8 rental assistance. All 30 units in both buildings are 100% accessible, built for disabled and elderly households. They plan to serve homeless seeking permanent housing or persons moving on from transitional housing, and will give priority for vacant units to households between 0-30% of median family income. They have a large waiting list for their current project. Phase I is completed and 20 units are rented with 13 pending. Alaina Welsh described the support services they offer. They have an on-site support service office with regular office hours by Mercy Home Health and Successful Living. Some of the Housing and Community Development Minutes February 15, 2001 Page 10 services will include budgeting, financial & nutritional counseling, chore services, support group facilitation, and skilled nursing care by Mercy Home Health as necessary. Bob Burns stated that Alaina is a staffperson with a background in social work as well as a graduate degree in urban and regional planning. Burns stated that the site is an infill site in western Iowa City. He said the project has been considered one project built in four phases at the request of the City. Two phases have been implemented, and they are now applying for the third and fourth phases. After all four phases are in place, the operating budget will support a full-time site manager and maintenance person. They have a deed to both sites, all the infrastructure is in place, and they are ready to build. If they are granted this funding, the City funds would leverage an additional $2.5 million in funds from other sources. The requested funding is a fully amodized loan that they will repay to the City in full in 30 years. They plan to make a debt service each year of $10,600. They also pay property taxes the entire time. The affordability period under the Home program is 20 years; 50 years under the low income housing tax credits. The project meets all National Home objectives. It's near the Fairway and Harding Drug Store in western Iowa City. These 120 units were recognized by the City Steps as part of the supply side when calculating demand. Burns passed around photographs of Phase I. Schmuch asked what the units will look like inside as far as accessibility. Burns stated that all units all have grab bars, turning radius is full five foot turning radius in the bathroom, all counter heights are 34", all ranges are front control, the sink in kitchen is removable. All doorways are wide, and all appliances are designed for accessibility. Welsh stated that the carpet was low pile and there are pull cords in the bathrooms and bedrooms. The vanities in the bathroom are .removable so a wheelchair can wheel underneath the sink. Burns stated all the support spaces are also accessible. Correia asked if the units will be for people 55 years and older and for people with physical disabilities. Bob Burns stated they include physical and/or mental disabilities. Correia asked if there was any age eligibility with that. Burns stated there was not. Correia asked if that would include families with children, and if there was a disabled child would that qualify. Burns stated that if they were disabled, yes that would, but he didn't know if just having a disabled child would qualify the family. There are 28 1-bedroom and 2 2-bedroom units. Gutting asked if they will accept partial funding. Bob Burns stated that rather than accept partial funding, they would probably prefer to fund one project rather than both. Page asked about some of the services they propose as far as whether they are being applied for Phase I residents. Welsh stated that there is a support service in the Phase II building. Concord Terrace did not initially have a support service but all tenants are welcome to participate in the services provided in the other buildings. Additional phases will allow for support service providers to be in the area for longer periods of time and more frequently. Severson asked how they are going to fund the services they provide. Welsh stated that it will be a combination of ways. Each provider has their own funding source. Some of the services will be provided free to tenants; some at a reduced cost including wellness checks, blood pressure, glucose, nutritional counseling, spiritual care. Some residents will have Medicare or Housing and Community Development Minutes February 15, 2001 Page 11 Medicaid that will cover the skilled nursing services. They be more encouraged to utilize services if they are in the building and others are using it. Schmuch asked if there was a sliding scale arrangement. Welsh said the agencies have a sliding scale arrangement. Gutting asked when the expected completion date was for Phase II. Bob Burns stated that Phase II has a completion date of fall 2001, which would be close to the start of construction of Phase III. Stewart asked when was the actual award of the funds expected. Burns said September was what was planned. Renquist asked if the organization is in compliance with federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances for previously funded CDBG or Home funding projects. Bob Burns stated yes. He stated they have proven their tenant profile at the Citizen Building. Nasby asked whether the fair market rent level was geared to the 20 year compliance or the 50 year compliance. Bob Burns stated he believes that it is 20 years under the Home program. Jesse Burns said it would depend on what applications they made for the tax credit application. So it would be for the 50 years. Welsh said that the rules for the tax credit have not been established yet. Correia asked if there was bus service. Burns stated it was 1/10th Of a mile away. RubV's Pearl- Kvmbvrlv Koester, Laura Crosslev Koester and Crossley introduced themselves as co-owners of Ruby's Pearl, a new business opened 8 days ago. They run a feminist health and body resource shop and a resource center for Iowa City and the outlying areas working with Emma Goldman, DVIP, RAC and other agencies. They will provide supplies not found in stores, books dealing with gender issues and positive body issues. They are one of five stores nationwide like this. Koester passed out copies of articles from the Press-Citizen, the Daily lowan, and the Garlic Press. Renquist asked if the organization is in compliance with federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances pertaining to this proposal. Koester clarified that they are up to code, have met with a lawyer and have talked with a couple of other local business owners who said yes. They've contacted federal, state and local levels on what they will need, and have all their ID numbers. Stewart asked about other funding. Koester stated that bank interest was high at Hills Bank, and they assumed that the other banks would be similar. Stewart asked about a LIFT loan for women in business. Koester stated they had gone to Pappajohn's small business center and the women's business center in Coralville about loan opportunities. It is possible they will apply for the SELF loan through the women's loan department if this funding doesn't go through. Page asked if they liken themselves to RAC. Crossley said they do consider themselves a resource center, but they consider the products they carry to provide tools for people so it's like taking it another step further. They do cooperate with RAC as far as events. Long asked if they have accessible entrance to the store. Koester said they have talked with the landlord and he has said he doesn't have to comply with the laws because of the year the building was built, but they would like to see it done. It has other entrances but you have to go through stairs. Rousing and Community Development Minutes February 15, 2001 Page 12 Renquist asked if the funding would allow the staff positions to have health care. Koester said it was a goal for them. Renquist asked if they could survive with partial funding. Koester stated they could because they have looked into that when putting together their application. The reason they are hoping for the grant/loan is they could have a living wage and not be scraping by. Nasby asked if they understood that a requirement would be that jobs would be 3 years in duration. Koester stated that the reason they put the 1.5 years down because they could hopefully be self-sustaining by that time. Renquist asked that they provide the supporting documentation as to why the project is needed. How exactly will it feed a need in the community. Koester said it talks about that in the articles, and they do have documentation they can provide about the groups they are working with and the programs they want to provide. Renquist asked if those programs were already committed. Koester said yes, and that is only the beginning. They have a book of suggestions. Nasby advised that part of their lease payment needs to go toward property taxes to qualify for the application. He asked if they were a not-for-profit that is except from taxes. Koester said they are not non-profit; they are a business. Page asked if the affiliations with RAC and RVAC were a way of leveraging human resources and volunteerism. Koester said that was true - the people who want to hold the workshops in their space are not asking for money, they are volunteering to do this. Koester also hopes to bring in professional educators that they would need to pay. Page asked if there will be a fee people will be asked to pay for attending the workshops. Crossley said it would depend on who they bring in and what they require. They do not plan to charge for workshops. but would accept donations. They would like their products and programs to be accessible to a large amount of people. Koester said if fees were required they hope that their business can be self-sufficient in order to pay them. Long asked if they have a business plan with the small business center or anyone else. Koester said they have been meeting with Chris Paycek with Pappajohn to talk about ideas and steps they will need to take. They have been reviewing books and pamphlets, and have been talking with other small business owners. Stewart asked if they had any bank debt at this time. Koester stated they did not. Gutting moved to adjourn. House seconded, The meeting adjourned. Next meeting is March Kathleen Renquist, Chairperson Minutes submitted by Neana Saylor HCDC02-15-01 doc MINUTES l~~:~g4~ IOWA CITY BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2001 -5 P.M. CIVIC CENTER- COUNCIL CHAMBERS MEMBERS PRESENT: Mike Paul, T+J. Brandt, Vincent Maurer, Dennis Keitel, Kate Corcoran MEMBERS ABSENT: None STAFF PRESENT: Karen Howard, Sarah Holocek OTHERS PRESENT: None CALL TO ORDER: Vice Chairperson Corcoran called the meeting to order at 5:03 P.M. ROLL CALL: Maurer, T.J. Brandt, Paul, Corcoran and Keitel present. CONSIDERATION OF THE DECEMBER 13, 2000, BOARD MINUTES: Corcoran noted that the meeting was started at 5:15PM as reflected by the draft of the minutes. It indicated that T.J. Brandt was absent. Corcoran stated that she also would have been absent for the roll call vote and for the review of the minutes+ Paul stated that he seconded the motion. to approve the minutes and it would have been approved on a 3-0 vote. Motion: Paul moved to approve the December 2000, minutes as amended and re-confirmed from the tape. Keitel seconded with the motion being carried on a vote of 3-0. Maurer and T.J. Brandt abstained, as they were not present at the December meeting. ELECTION OF CHAIRPERSON AND VICE CHAIRPERSON: MOTION: Keitel nominated Corcoran to serve as the chairperson with a second by Paul. The motion passed unopposed on a 5-0 vote. MOTION: Paul nominated Brandt to serve as the vice-chairperson with a second by Corcoran. The motion passed unopposed on a 5.-0 vote. REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION: Consideration of a letter received from Thomas Gelman requesting reconsideration of the decision made during the December board meeting to deny AP00-0001, am appeal of a decision of the Building Official to deny a minor site plan submitted by Bloomington Properties, LLP for a medical office building and associated parking lot located at 510/512 East Bloomington Street in the Commercial Office (CO1) zone. Attorney Holocek explained that according to Robert's Rules of Order, duly adopted by the Iowa City Board of Appeals, where there are not rules of procedure explicitly setout in the bylaws, the Board of Adjustment procedurally follows Robert's Rules of Order. Pursuant to this, a motion to reconsider must be made by someone on the prevailing side or who voted on the prevailing side. As there was a 2-2 vote, the prevailing side would be to deny the appeal because statutorily per Iowa Code three members of a five member board is required to overturn a decision of a lower official. In this case it is the building official. The prevailing side was the denial. The two persons voting to deny the appeal were Corcoran and Lowell Brandt. Mr Brandt's term has expired; therefore Corcoran is the only person who can make the motion to reconsider However, it does not preclude other members from making statements as to why or why not it would not be in the best interest of all to reconsider the matter, short of debate Chairperson Corcoran offered the opportunity for the board members to make their statements as to why or why not the matter should or should not be reconsidered. Iowa City Board of Adjustment Minutes January 10, 2001 Page 2 Paul stated that the Board went through a lengthy process of listening to pros and cons as well as explanations by the staff and Mr. Gelman. Given the process that the city and the Bloomington Partners have gone through up to this point he said he felt it was a shame that the fifth member was not present. It is nothing against the fifth member. His presence could have made the difference one way or another. He stated that he is in favor of re-hearing the case. It was very worthwhile and informative. He stated he felt it would serve justice to hear the comments again Keitel inquired if the applicant has indicated to the Planning Department if they intended to make any changes since the letter was written. Howard stated that she was not aware of any changes. Brandt offered a deep apology to all parties involved as well as the board+ Due to business problems he was not able to attend the meeting. Had he been present it would have been decided one way or another. He would be in favor of the reconsideration as the fifth member for his own sake, as well as the applicant's sake. Corcoran stated that she had really struggled with this issue as she expected this action to occur. Respectfully she declined to make the motion to reconsider. She stated that she believed in the two and one-half hours that the board considered the appeal there was a full and fair exchange of information. It received a very good review by the board. She realized that there were only four board members present and she was four minutes late to the meeting. In the procedural rules, Article 6, Section 4, it is stated that a quorum for the board is three members and four were present. She stated that she would stand by the findings that she gave as the basis for voting against the appeal. She said that she believed that the building official had the discretion. In the site plan review the preamble as well as the rest of the additional sections provided for discretion. The building official in denying this site plan did not abuse his discretion. There was a reasonable basis to deny the site plan that was submitted by Bloomington Properties. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT INFORMATION The next meeting is scheduled for February 14, 2001. ADJOURNMENT Board Chairperson 7~/~F/b'~ Minutes Submitted By Le Ann Dunne-Tyson IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION THURSDAY, MARCH 8, 2001 - 5:30 P.M. CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS MEMBERS PRESENT: Michaelanne Widness, Peter Jochimsen, James Enloe, Michael Gunn, Marc Mills, Ann Freerks, Sue Licht and Loret Mast MEMBERS ABSENT: Richard Carlson, Doris Malkmus STAFF PRESENT: Bob Miklo OTHERS PRESENT: CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Gunn called the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: There was none. DISCUSSION OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION WEEK PREPARATION: Miklo presented a list of tasks that need to be done prior to Historic Preservation Week. He passed around photographs of potential award nominees and asked the Commission members to identify addition projects for awards. Jochimsen asked for clarification on the various areas for nomination. Miklo stated that traditionally the areas were painting, residential rehabilitation, residential additions, and commercial projects (restoration or additions). There may not be awards in all categories. Miklo advised that other properties that have been suggested to him include: 935 College Street (a paint job), the Field House Bar (1st floor remodeling), and the Billiards Club downtown. Freerks asked about the former Great Midwestern building. Miklo suggested Michaelanne's house on Melrose Avenue and the cottage that Aaron Gwinnip is restoring on Church Street; however, he doesn't believe the cottage will be done this year. Mast reminded the commission of the screened porch put on by Cox at the Loomis house. Miklo suggested that the commission call or e-mail over the next couple of weeks with any suggestions. Jochimsen asked if the work had to be done in the calendar year. Gunn stated as long as the work was recent. Miklo reminded the commission that they will need to consider an award for Preservation Person of the Year. The Commission went through the list and volunteered for various duties. The Historic Preservation awards ceremony is scheduled for May 16, at 5:30 p.m. at the Courthouse. Miklo stated he would have the list typed out and delivered to commission members. Mast asked which bank was due to provide the refreshments this year. Miklo stated he would go through the file to determine which bank is due. DISCUSSION OF PRIORITIZING HISTORIC AND CONSERVATION DISTRICT NOMINATIONS: Gunn stated that there was a list as part of the planning report. Freerks advised that they have a grant for Longfellow. Licht stated that Longfellow should be high on the list. Widness stated that Marlys had commented on the fact that the order in which they were designated would probably correspond to vulnerability to abuse. Miklo stated that the areas closest to campus would most likely be the most vulnerable. Gunn stated his recollection is that North Linn and North Gilbert should be combined as one district. Miklo stated his recollection of Marlys' suggestion was that North Linn and North Gilbert be one district; Jefferson Street to stand on its own; and Ronalds Street be an extension of the Brown Street Historic District. Miklo said that for the National Historic Preservation Commission Minutes March 8, 2001 Page 2 Register they would have to re-nominate the Brown/Ronald Street district, which makes it more complicated. Freerks stated that she was concerned about a number of buildings in the downtown area, including the old Public Library. Miklo suggested that the HPC do a landmark award very soon in an attempt to preserve the old Public Library. Freerks stated it was a Carnegie building, and would be worth preservation. Gunn stated that since the grant was approved, he would like to get moving on the Longfellow District. Licht stated that the process is lengthy, and that if the commission is waiting for the National Register nomination to be approved before they do the historic district, it could take 6-9 months. The conservation district could be placed in the works. Enloe asked if the historic district could be nominated locally and done independent of the national. Licht stated it can be, they just have never done it that way because the National Register gives some leverage. Licht is very concerned about the downtown area because a tremendous number of downtown buildings are threatened. Licht asked if Marlys felt Goosetown was seriously threatened. Freerks stated that she did, but that it was over time due to individual homeowners doing misguided work. Gunn asked if more staff time was included in the budget. Miklo stated that the Council discussed reorganizing the Planning Department to allocate more time to the HPC, but that has not yet been worked out. Miklo stated that Dubuque Street/Clinton Street had probably 97% absentee-landlord owned properties. He said that the Comprehensive Plan calls for a district plan for the central area, which includes all of the older neighborhoods. Gunn asked if there was neighborhood support in the North Linn/North Gilbert area. Miklo felt there was some neighborhood support, and that it was threatened by slow demolition. This area is mostly residential, except for Mercy Hospital, Dr. Kammermeyer, the gas station, and a few bars. The Commission felt that they should work on local nominations and then work on national. Licht asked if the two conservation districts and the historic district at Longfellow could be done at the same time. Gunn feels it makes sense to do it all at one time, but it will be hard. General consensus was that they could establish a precedent of doing the local first without having done national. Miklo said that if all goes well with the consultant, they could probably have the national register nomination before fall, and it would probably take that long to get the conservation districts in order. Licht stated that then they could get them all approved at the same time. Freerks asked if they could be working on an individual designation for a downtown building at the same time. Miklo said that he felt that if the Commission feels the Carnegie Library was threatened it would be a key for the commission to focus on. Freerks stated that it would take educating the community as to the potential value and what other communities have done with their libraries. After extensive discussion of the survey areas as presented on the map they were provided. the Commission determined that the districts should be prioritized as follows: Longfellow District, Northside Neighborhood, Downtown. Miklo asked where the Carnegie Library fits into that prioritization. Licht said it would be interesting to go through the nomination process to bring it to the front. Miklo stated that the Council provided the money to the Commission for the downtown area to prevent things like the destruction of historic buildings from happening. Miklo stated that it is Marlys' suggestion that the commission use the awards program as an opportunity to promote downtown. Freerks thought that if they could promote one building, it would be a start to getting the downtown business owners aware. Miklo said his understanding was that the committee wants to proceed with the current course: Marlys will present the report to the downtown owners, see what interest is there and try to promote distinguishing downtown from the outlying areas. Historic Preservation Commission Minutes Mamh 8, 2001 Page 3 REVIEW OF MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 8, 2001: Gunn stated that on page two, paragraph two under "Discussion of Development Regulations Analysis", the first line should road: Gunn stated that he would like the consultant to address the possibility of including a demolition by neglect ordinance provision in the proservation rogulations. MOTION: Enloe moved to adopt the minutes as amended. Mast seconded. The motion carried unopposed. COMMISSION INFORMATION/DISCUSSION: 903 Iowa Avenue Miklo stated that the information Richard put together on 903 Iowa Avenue has been sent off to Ralph Christian at the State Historic Society. Christian has called Miklo to report that he is looking at it and will have a determination by March 25th whether this is National Register eligible or not. If it is, they can grant a waiver of the lead based paint abatement requirements; if not, the rehab people can proceed with vinyl siding. Gunn said the area contains several contributing structures. and asked if this should be combined into a College Hill District. Miklo stated that he felt the commission should do a survey of the gap between College Hilt and Goosetown. One of the maps shows an area that has not been surveyed to Hotz Avenue up through Rochester. Freerks asked what the zoning was. Miklo stated he believes it to be RNC-12 and RNC-20. Governor Street/Lucas Street Conservation District The City Council public hearing is March 20th. Memo from Kerr,/McGrath, CLG Coordinator Miklo asked the commission to review the memo from Kerry McGrath and fill out the survey. National Reqister Listin¢l of Ashton Residence The Commission has been presented with a letter regarding the Ned Ashton property, which is now listed on the National Register and should be considered as a local landmark. Miklo stated that there are two or three properties that have been listed nationally that the commission may want to list as local landmarks, including the Ned Ashton property and the church on Governor Street. Miklo passed around a booklet that was provided by the Friends of Historic Preservation called History of the Preservation Movement in Iowa City. It begins with Old Brick and goes to the present, including the demolition of the Harmon Building. Miklo presented a large mock-up of a check for $4,400 from the State Historic Society, which was the grant for the Longfellow District. The State Historic Society recommends that the City have a press conference and have someone in the neighborhood be presented with the check. Gunn and Freerks volunteered to work on that together. Gunn presented his draft of an exparte contract policy. Enloe asked if a subcommittee should be appointed to deal with that. Miklo asked if the bylaws should be amended to include that. Freerks and Jochimsen stated it would be a good idea. It was decided that Gunn would present it at the next meeting. Historic Preservation Commission Minutes March 8, 2001 Page 4 Miklo stated that there was a basement wall collapse at 10 Bella Vista Place in the Brown Street district. They have applied for a certificate of no material effect, and plan to replace the wall with identical materials. There should be no outward change in appearance. Gunn stated that he, Enloe and Licht reviewed the request on the Herman property at 526 Summit Street. They feel that it should be owner's choice because irs a non-contributing structure. ADJOURNMENT: Meeting adjourned at 6:53 p.m. i~ ~ 4-03-01 MARCH 15, 2001 -7:30 PM ~ CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS MEMBERS PRESENT: Ann Bovbjerg, Pam Ehrhardt, Benjamin Chait, Dean Shannon, Marilyn Schintler MEMBERS ABSENT; Jerry Hansen STAFF PRESENT: Mitch Behr, Bob Miklo, John Yapp, Karen Howard OTHERS PRESENT: Bob Downer, Glen Siders, Mike Pew, Charles Ruppert CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Bovbjerg called the meeting to order at 7:37 p.m. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: Bob Downer, attorney for Charles Sodergren, Woodridge Avenue, appeared on Sodergren's behalf and on the behalf of other Woodridge residents whom Mr. Sodergren represents to ask the commission to review city ordinances relating to the siting of cellular communications towers within the corporate limits of the City of Iowa City. He cited the 1996 Telecommunications Act, which established a comprehensive framework for the exercise of jurisdiction by state and local authorities over the construction, modification and placement of towers. All towers so far have been located in Commercial, Commercial Industrial, Industrial and Rural zones. Now a company wants to place a tower on the Regina campus, which is in an RS-5 zone. Lighting may be required atop towers to meet FAA requirements, and in some cases strobe lights are required. Health risks may be associated with the electro-magnetic emissions. Dewher cited the Los Angeles Board of Education's opposition beginning 27 June 2000 to any future placement of towers on school property. Dewnet asked the Commission to set in motion a process for development of appropriate regulatory standards in Iowa City regarding placement of cellular towers. Bovbjerg asked if he represented any organized group. Downer said Sodergren is the principle member of a nascent group opposing the tower placement on Regina's campus. Ehrhardt asked what procedure would be followed to place a moratorium on building the tower until the situation could be studied. Would it come from Planning and Zoning, or the City Council. Behr said he would need to look at the Los Angeles decision before he could adequately answer. Miklo said that the City had looked into this issue in 1997. Yapp said that in 1997 the City studied the issue of the placement of communications towers, and as a result did open a few more zones in which towers are permissible. In response to the Telecommunications Act of 1996, communications towers are permitted in the Industrial zone. By special exception communications towers are also allowed in ORP, RDP, ID and P zones. They are permitted in Commercial zones if they are accessory to a commercial business, as is the case with KCRG. The recent Duncan Report largely agreed with the City's 1997 revisions, but made suggestions for minor revisions. Chait asked what the zoning at Regina is. Yapp said it is RS-5, Single-Fmaily Residential; communications towers are not permitted in residential zones. The only option available to a cellular provider would be to apply for a variance, or ask that the city code be changed. Bovbjerg asked whether Planning and Zoning should open the issue again. Yapp said it might be a good starting point to reveiw what was adopted in 1997. Bovbjerg asked Miklo for clarification: is it an issue to place on the pending list or is it a point of information. Miklo said it would be a point of information. If the Commission felt further work needed to be done, or the ordinance needed revision it would be something to put on the pending list. City Council would have final say as to whether or not the issue should be reopened. Miklo added that, given the small space of time since the adoption of the ordinance in 1997 he would be hesitant to devote a lot of time to researching the topic again. Planning and Zoning Commission Minutes March 15, 2001 Page 2 Bovbjerg asked if the matter of obtaining a variance to site a tower came up it would go to the Board of Adjustment. Yapp confirmed this. Downer added that Federal court decisions regarding the legality of statutes and the latitude available to local governments in legislating ordinances on tower siting all took place after 1997. Those court decisions may need to be taken into account. Chait reminded Downer that a request for a variance would be made to the Board of Adjustment, not Planning and Zoning. Downer conceded this but reiterated the perception of his client that Planning and Zoning was a good first step in the process of opposing a Regina-sited tower. Chait asked if there was a more definitive way to say no to siting towers in residential zones. Yapp said that other than stating it is not a permitted use he could not conceive of a better way. He stated that the legal test for obtaining a variance is very strict. Yapp emphasized that the City has not received any application for a communications tower on the Regina property so far. Bovbjerg invited further comment. There was none. Announcement of Vacancies: Bovbjerg said there is a list of City Board and Commission vacancies posted on the lobby bulletin board. She iterated the value of public input. REZ01-0002, an application submitted by Charles Rupperf for a rezoning of approximately 12.09 acres of property from I-1, Industrial, to C1-1, Intensive Commercial, for property located on the south side of Highway 1, between Westport Plaza and Menards. Yapp said that at the request of the Commission at the meeting of March 1, 2001 Staff has proposed language intended to minimize the possibility of having a blank wall face Highway 1. The Comprehensive Plan contains statements that the City should enact guidelines to protect the appearance of entranceway corridors. Because there is as yet no development proposal the protective language staff suggested is somewhat broad. Staff suggests the Conditional Zoning Agreement state that: the building walls facing Highway 1 shall be masonry, including brick, stone, dressed concrete block, or stucco; or, a minimum of thirty percent of the wall should be windows or window openings; or, other changes in the pattern of the wall provided the wall is masonry or like material. Staff continues to recommend approval of rezoning contingent on a conditional zoning agreement addressing landscaping, site and building wall design, signs, access, and airport runway protection zone issues. Ehrhardt asked if the Wal-mart wall facing Highway 1 would be permissible under this language. Yapp said it would either have to be all masonry, or be 30% windows, or another patterned surface, predominantly masonry, as appreved by the Director of Planning and Community Development. Bovbjerg asked if the proposed language would be part of the conditional zoning agreement. Yapp confirmed this. Public discussion open: There was none. Public discussion closed. MOTION: Shannon moved to approve REZ01-0002, an application submitted by Charles Ruppert for a rezoning of approximately 12.09 acres of property from I-1, Industrial, to C1-1, Intensive Commercial, for property located on the south side of Highway 1, between Westport Plaza and Menards, subject to a conditional zoning agreement addressing the development's landscaping, Planning and Zoning Commission Minutes March 15, 2001 Page 3 site and building wall design, sign, access, and runway protection zone issues. Schintler seconded the motion. Ehrhardt asked if there were any way to prevent a solid wall of one material being constructed. Yapp said that would be up to the Commission. Yapp suggested striking the first sentence requiring the wall to be masonry, leaving the other two as conditional options. Discussion followed on the definition of "masonry" and perceptions of what constituted a blank wall. Ehrhardt expressed concern that the language was perhaps too broad. Shannon cited the previous instance of requiring a percentage of fenestration at the t 1s Avenue Walgreen's. Yapp confirmed this. Shannon also recalled there were landscaping requirements, which Yapp said was accounted for in this case as well. Bovbjerg asked Ehrhardt if the mention of masonry in the third condition was satisfactory. Ehrhardt, with slight reservation, said it was. Bovbjerg asked Staff if striking the first sentence would require an amendment to the Commission's motion, Yapp said no. Chait expressed reservations about the level of minutiae the rezoning conditions seek to address. The Commission discussed the language suggested for the Conditional Zoning Agreement. Bovbjerg asked how the Commission felt about altering the language meant to minimize the chance of a blank wall facing the highway and just requiring the patterned wall surface be at least mostly masonry. Following further discussion the Commission decided to leave the language for the Conditional Zoning Agreement intact, as recommended by staff. The motion carried on a vote of 5-0. REZ01-0003/SUB01-0004, an application from Southgate development for an amended Sensitive Areas Overlay plan and a preliminary plat of Walnut Ridge Parts 9-1 O, a 13-lot residential subdivision located on Kennedy Parkway. Miklo said the applicant is requesting that the tree protection area and buffer be reduced in four of the lots (93, 97, 98, 99) and on Lots 98 and 99 additional trees would be removed with approval. Grading in Lots 93 and 97 could ultimately lead to the demise of several extant trees if the roots are harmed. The Sensitive Areas ordinance allows the City to approve replacement trees if infrastructure considerations or site constraints exist that would prevent property development without said tree removal. Miklo said that if the developer were to reduce setbacks from the forty feet consistent throughout the development to thirty feet there would be sufficient room on which to site a house without changing the existing tree protection area. Staff does not recommend approval of the current amendment to the previous plan. Schintler asked what the City Forester had to say about the trees and their removal. Miklo said the Forester approved the replacement plan if the Commission finds there is sufficient cause to approve the current plan, but he does not endorse tree removal. Bovbjerg asked if the plan was different in the layout of lots. Miklo replied that the change in the protection area is the only difference. Chait asked what the depth of the proposed increase is. Miklo said it ranges from about twenty-five to sixty feet, Public discussion open: Glenn Siders of Southgate Development stated that Southgate misunderstood the meaning of the buffer line. They thought that the trees within the fifty-foot area from the buffer line to the preservation line were potentially removable when a house was built. Siders said Southgate is requesting that a new, less deep buffer be set 110 feet from the right of way. Planning and Zoning Commission Minutes March 15, 2001 Page 4 Siders stated that the City approached Southgate ten years ago with an agreement to reduce some ordinance standards to facilitate construction of one acre plus development within city limits. Southgate agreed. Siders said Staff suggestions to move the Alder Court cul-de-sac southwards would not work because of the reduction in size of Lots 95 and 96. Nor would shrinking the size of the cul-de-sac. Siders said he would be willing to enter into a legal agreement in which Southgate would cut down only enough trees on each lot to be able to fit in the houses. Siders went on to ask that Planning and Zoning work with Southgate on this issue. He pointed out that ordinances have changed since Walnut Ridge was begun. He asked that the new buffer line, 110 feet back from the lot line, be approved. Ehrhardt asked whether having fewer lots was an option, considering the difficult building conditions. Siders said no; he would consider that quite a constraint. Ehrhardt asked about the illegal grading and removal of trees. She wondered if Southgate had had a different plan previously. Siders said the plan is different. The cul-de-sac has been moved south from its originally proposed position and reduced in diameter. The grading had been done in anticipation of construction needs. Bovbjerg asked if there were any further questions. There were none. Mike Pu~h, attorney for Southgate, made the clarification that only the trees on Lots 98 and 99 would be removed. Pugh said that Southgate has a contention with Staff concerning sensitive areas site restrictions, in that Staff feels Southgate has not adequately demonstrated that site restrictions exist. Pugh cited Sider's random sampling of previous lot plans to reiterate the fact that, on average, grading has extended to 120 feet from the lot line. Southgate is proposing to extend to only 110 feet. He pointed out that the existing buffer line on Lot 99 leaves only an eighty-foot depth. The largest depth measure on Lot 98 is ninety feet. Pugh said Southgate feels that--based on the requirements the City has imposed in the past regarding lot sizes and setbacks in Walnut Ridge--in this phase of the development there is a constraint. Pugh said that the fact that there is still room to build a structure is not the intent of the sensitive areas ordinance. Pugh said Southgate feels the modification in buffer lines constitutes a reasonable use. Bovbjerg asked if there were any further questions. There were none. Public discussion closed. MOTION: Chair moved to defer an application from Southgate development for an amended Sensitive Areas Overlay plan and a preliminary plat of Walnut Ridge Parts 9-10, a 13-1ot residential subdivision located on Kennedy Parkway. Ehrhardt seconded the motion. Bovbjerg commented on how we have learned over time that there is a need for sensitive areas overlays. She said Parts 9 and 10 of Walnut Ridge should be rethought; Lots 97, 98, 99 should be dropped from the plan. Planning and Zoning Commission Minutes March 15, 2001 Page 5 Chair found nothing wrong with the request; the trees in question are so few in number. He agrees that reducing the setback from fody feet to thirty feet would be out of character in the context of the rest of the subdivision. Shannon said he would approve contingent on a tree replacement plan. The motion carried on a vote of 5-0. Public hearinq on an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan to include the North District Plan. Karen Howard said Staff had nothing further to add from last time, as they had received no additional correspondence regarding the Plan. Chair asked if a public hearing could take place with no one from the public present. Bovbjerg said that legally this is a public meeting and that we had received comments from the public at previous meetings. Behr confirmed this. Howard asked if the Commission wanted to discuss the amendments attached to the North District Plan. Bovbjerg and others indicated that they would be prepared to vote without further discussion. MOTION: Ehrhardt moved to approve and send on to the City Council the amendment to the Comprehensive Plan to include the North District Plan as amended. Schintler seconded the motion, Bovbjerg asked for discussion. The motion carried on a vote of 5-0. Bovbjerg asked when Council would set public hearing on the amendment. Miklo said it would probably be April 17, 2001. Consideration of minutes of February 15 and March 1. MOTION: Shannon moved to approve the minutes of February 15 and March 1. Schintler seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 5-0. Bovbjerg asked if there was any other business. MOTION: Ehrhardt moved to adjourn. Chait seconded the motion. Ehrhardt asked what motivates the order of treatment for district plans. Miklo said the Commission and Council determined the order a few years ago. The order could be revisited if the Commission wished to do so. Ehrhardt asked which district Hadocke Street is in. Miklo said it is in the Southwest District. Bovbjerg asked which district Staff was currently working on. Miklo said after the North District was wrapped up they would begin on the Central Planning District. Planning and Zoning Commission Minutes March 15, 2001 Page 6 Meetinq adjourned Dean Shannon, Secretary Minutes submitted by John Adam. ppdadminlmin/p&z3-15~ldoc