HomeMy WebLinkAbout2012-08-21 Bd Comm minutesAirport Commission
June 21, 2012
Page 1
MINUTES
IOWA CITY AIRPORT COMMISSION
JUNE 21, 2012 — 6:00 P.M.
AIRPORT TERMINAL BUILDING
Members Present: Jose Assouline, Howard Horan, Rick Mascari
Members Absent: Minnetta Gardinier
Staff Present: Sue Dulek, Michael Tharp
Others Present: Matt Wolford, Jeff Edberg, David Hughes
FINAL
3b(1)
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council
action): Airport Commission by consensus agreed to recommend to Council to develop a
Policy to allow alcohol be served at events held at city facilities.
CALL TO ORDER:
Chairperson Assouline called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M.
APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES:
Minutes of the May 17, 2012, meeting were reviewed. Mascari moved to approve the
minutes of the May 17, 2012, meeting as submitted; seconded by Horan. Motion carried
3 -0; Gardinier absent.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
None.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION /ACTION:
a. Airport Commerce Park — Tharp noted that he has not heard from Jeff Edberg, but that
he did have contact with his secretary regarding the meeting schedule. Mascari noted
that the realtor is only putting one ad out per month on the commerce park lots, and he
questioned if more marketing isn't needed. Edberg showed up at this point in the
meeting and Members posed the increased marketing question to him. Edberg
explained the advertising methods currently being used, noting both the Skogman web
site and his own personal web site. He further clarified how the marketing of these lots
is being handled. At next month's meeting, Edberg will bring his laptop and show
Members just exactly what he is talking about with the web sites and the marketing plan.
The discussion continued, with Members talking about the various angles that could be
used to draw attention to these lots. Mascari asked for an update on Deery's option to
purchase additional lots. Edberg stated that the option period for Deery to buy the
additional lots expired. Edberg noted that he is aware of another client with interest in
these lots.
b. Terminal Building Brick Repair — Mascari stated that the work looks great and other
Members agreed. Mascari moved to consider Resolution #Al2 -20, Accepting Work
Airport Commission
June 21, 2012
Page 2
for Terminal Building Exterior Repairs; seconded by Horan. Motion carried 3 -0;
Gardinier absent.
c. Hangar L — Tharp stated that ground has been broken on this project, with the end of
September, early October as the expected completion date. Mascari asked if there have
been any unexpected changes or delays. Tharp noted that MidAmerican wants to make
some changes and he briefly explained these.
d. FAA/IDOT Projects: AECOM —
i. Obstruction Mitigation — David Hughes addressed the Members, noting
that there is no update on the obstruction mitigation at this point.
ii. 7125 Parallel Taxiway Grading & Drainage — Hughes noted that they
are finishing up the west end of the project. The deep fill is completed and the
contractor is currently putting top soil on. Hughes added that they plan to
complete this project by the end of next week.
iii. 7/25 Parallel Taxiway Paving & Lighting — Hughes stated that the
paving and lighting project is at the bidding stage now.
1. Public Hearing — Assouline opened the public hearing.
Hughes stated that after speaking with the FAA it sounds like
discretionary funding is going to be more readily available than it has
been in the past few years. Assouline then closed the public hearing after
a brief discussion.
2. Mascari moved to consider Resolution #Al2 -21,
Accepting Plans and Specifications for Runway 7/25 Parallel
Taxiway Paving and Lighting for Construction; seconded by Horan.
Motion carried 3 -0; Gardinier absent.
iv. Airport Electrical Rehab — Hughes stated that they sent out four RFPs
to electricians, and received back three. The two lowest bids were only about
$300 apart, according to Hughes, with Girard Electric being recommended.
Mascari moved to consider Resolution #Al2 -22, Awarding Contract for
Airport Electrical Rehabilitation as discussed; seconded by Horan. Motion
carried 3 -0; Gardinier absent.
e. Aviation Authority — Tharp spoke to this issue, noting that he had a conversation with
the Cedar Rapids Airport manager this morning regarding this. He gave Members a
brief history of why various other cities have gone to having an Authority, such as Des
Moines doing so in order to speed up the process of being able to obtain more airlines.
Burlington created an Authority in order to revitalize their airport. Tharp noted that if the
Commission is interested, the Cedar Rapids Airport manager did offer to have their
consultant expand what he is looking at, to make it not only a regional approach but also
to look at possible partnerships that could be forged between entities. Members
discussed their feelings, with the majority agreeing that they should take a wait - and -see
attitude.
f. Airport "Operations ":
i. Strategic Plan- Implementation — Tharp stated that he would like to do a
review of this plan when all Members are present. Members agreed they could
do this at the July meeting.
ii. Budget — Tharp stated that things look good for the end of the fiscal year.
Revenues are coming in a bit higher due to some lease changes and increases.
Expenses, on the other hand, are a bit lower than expected, according to Tharp.
Airport Commission
June 21, 2012
Page 3
iii. Management — Tharp stated that he has the appropriate form needed to
change his position from .75 to FTE status on July 1St. Tharp next spoke to the
issue of allowing alcohol to be served at Airport functions, noting that he has had
conversations with the Library and Parks and Rec about this. They would like to
see the City restrictions eased on being able to serve alcohol in City -owned
facilities. This would be tied to an approval process, which Tharp briefly
explained. Members discussed whether or not they want to proceed in this
direction. Dulek explained what this type of procedure would do for the Airport.
The three Members present agreed that they would like to pursue an alcohol
policy.
g. FBO / Flight Training Reports —
L Jet Air — Matt Wolford spoke to the Commission next. He added to the
previous conversation that Jet Air would like to be able to hold special events,
where alcohol could be served. He then gave a brief rundown on where Jet Air is
with their building project, which has a completion date of July. Wolford also
noted an uptick in their business with flights.
ii. Iowa Flight Training — Wolford noted that Tim was not present from IFT
but that from what he can tell things are still busy there. Tharp noted that a
couple of weeks ago during the Young Eagles' event, Tim did an aviation camp.
h. Subcommittee Reports —
i. for June — Infrastructure (Horan, Mascari, Tharp) — Horan spoke about
the vertical infrastructure report. He noted that things are slowly but surely
getting done, i.e., runway lights, transformers, and controllers. He briefly touched
on some of the other infrastructures projects that are either in the process of
getting done or need to be looked at. Assouline asked if the airplane that sits up
front could be washed down, to which others agreed. Mascari asked if there is
any way to get water to the hangars, some type of pump that a hose could be
attached to. Wolford pointed out an area at the Airport where Mascari could
access a hose. The discussion continued with Horan touching on some of the
long -term projects they hope to achieve. Tharp also noted some roof repairs that
will be completed this summer.
ii. for July — no reports
i. Commission Members' Reports — Mascari noted that his annual checkup went well at
Jet Air. He also noted that Jerry Full called him recently to say that he has vacated his
hangar. Mascari said that it will take him some time to get his things moved. Horan
stated that he is still enjoying his flight training.
j. Staff Report — Tharp stated that he will be taking a few vacation days next week. In
July he will take off for a week's vacation. Tharp also stated that yesterday the Airport
hosted the department -head staff meeting for the City. He said that he had several
compliments on the Airport. Tharp also spoke briefly about the Young Eagles event
back on June 9th, stating they did about 32 airplane rides for the youngsters. Horan
added that Sertoma is the last Sunday in August. Mascari then mentioned that his
daughter got married last weekend.
Airport Commission
June 21, 2012
Page 4
SET NEXT REGULAR MEETING FOR:
The next regular meeting will be Thursday, July 19, 2012, at 6:00 P.M. at the Airport Terminal
building.
ADJOURN:
Mascari made the motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:02 P.M.; seconded by Horan.
Motion carried 3 -0, Gardinier absent.
CHAIRPERSON DATE
Airport Commission
May 17, 2012
Page 5
Airport Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2012
Key:
X = Present
X/E = Present for Part of Meeting
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = Not a Member at this time
TERM
o
0
0
0
0
0
0
NAME
EXP.
(0
rn
cyl
O
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
03/01/13
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Rick
Mascari
03/01/14
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Howard
Horan
Minnetta
03/01/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
Gardinier
Jose
03/02/12
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
Assouline
Key:
X = Present
X/E = Present for Part of Meeting
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = Not a Member at this time
3MENi�
MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
MAY 10, 2012
EMMA HARVAT HALL
APPROVED
MEMBERS PRESENT: Esther Baker, Thomas Baldridge, William Downing, Pam Michaud, Ginalie Swaim,
Frank Wagner
MEMBERS ABSENT: Kent Ackerson, Andrew Litton, David McMahon, Dana Thomann
STAFF PRESENT: Bob Miklo, Chery Peterson
OTHERS PRESENT: Maryann Dennis, Tammy Spies, Jean Walker
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (become effective only after separate Council action)
None.
CALL TO ORDER: Swaim called the meeting to order at 5:15 p.m.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA:
There was none.
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS:
1301 Muscatine Street.
Peterson showed a map of the College Hill Conservation District, pointing out this property at the corner of
Muscatine and Burlington Streets. She showed the front of the house.
Peterson said staff originally felt that all the components of the application could be done through intermediate
review. She said that when staff went to look at the windows, they realized they were in pretty good condition and
did not meet the guideline qualification for being deteriorated. Peterson said that is why this is before the
Commission.
Peterson stated that the windows are original, and the two pairs on one side of the house would be replaced in the
proposal. She said there is no proposed work for the windows on the porch. Peterson said that one window on the
south side would be included in the project.
Peterson added that the owners are working on multiple aspects of renovating this house, including a new garage
door and redoing the retaining walls as part of what staff has approved. She said the problem with the window
replacement is that the guidelines say the windows must be deteriorated to be replaced; otherwise they should be
repaired.
Peterson said the specifications for the project list repair. She said she feels that the owners probably need to replace
the combination storm/screens, if those are binding up and have failed. Peterson said that restoring the windows and
possibly replacing the storm/screens is her recommendation at this time.
Regarding the specifications that she sent everyone in an e-mail, Peterson said there was a visual inspection that
showed a little bit of loose paint at the very bottoms of the sashes and perhaps a little on the sill. She said the
recommendation from the City reviewers is that that can be scraped and repainted. Peterson said that would mitigate
the lead problem.
Spies said she is the project manager for a private non - profit landlord in Iowa City. She said this would be a rental
project. Dennis said she is Executive Director of the Housing Fellowship.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
MAY 10, 2012
Page 2 of 7
Dennis said she did not know how thorough of an investigation of the windows was done by City staff. She said the
Housing Fellowship (HF) works very closely with the rental housing inspection department of the City of Iowa City.
Dennis said the Housing Inspector is kind enough to go out with the HF staff prior to purchasing a property to give
them an idea of what needs to be done to receive a rental permit.
Dennis said there is a big concern about lead. She said that lead can be mitigated if the windows are repaired.
Dennis said, however, with the constant up and down with an old house, she believes there would be an ongoing
lead mitigation issue. She said the HF only rents to families, and there is a very good chance there would be a small
child living in that home. Dennis said that it is necessary to have egress, ease in operation, and every window has to
work easily in order to get a rental permit.
Dennis said that not all of the windows they want to replace are currently operable. She said she believes that with
repair they would be operable, but they would still have the ropes and the weights, and ongoing maintenance might
be required to maintain them as operable.
Dennis said that they cannot repair the storms. She said that even if the windows are repaired, the storms are not
going to match. Dennis said that Miklo and Peterson recommended a couple of contractors who would be able to
repair the windows, and Dennis has some information from them stating that the storms cannot be repaired and the
ones that are there cannot be replaced.
Dennis said the other issue is that they cannot, because of the HF's funding sources, get the names of repair people
and simply hire them. She said they have to go through a competitive bidding process, which takes time they don't
necessarily have. Dennis said the biggest issue is making this safe for the family that will be living here, in terms of
getting in and out of the home if need be and also in terms of lead.
Downing asked Dennis if the HF had gone through a bidding process for the window replacement. Dennis
confirmed this. She said they had a bid opening on March 5`h. Downing said the specifications call for repair, not
replacement, and asked how that was handled.
Dennis said that was the initial step they took, but then they had an alternate for replacement. Downing said that the
window that the owner presented information on looks like a standard window pocket unit, without nailing fin,
versus a full replacement window.
Peterson said she checked the product, and it is a Jeld -Wenn insert. She said the contractor would only take out the
sash and the stops, leave the old frame, and put the new window in. Peterson said it is a new window with its own
frame and sash. She said that it would shrink the visible glass area and increases the frame width.
Dennis said the frame of the window would have the lead they would be mitigating, and that doesn't move. She said
it was mentioned that the frame may have lead. Dennis said they would mitigate that; they know they are going to
have to do lead mitigation anyway.
Peterson said that repair of the windows will give a window that is lead -free. Downing said that if the alternate bid
was for replacement, there should be a bid for repair from the contractor as well.
Spies said they found that replacement would be more cost effective for them, especially in the long run, for
maintenance reasons. Peterson said that if long -term is more than 15 years, that is about the life on the replacement
windows. She added that if the insulated glass ever breaks or the seal fails, one has to replace the entire window.
Peterson said that an old window can be re- glazed. Dennis said she realizes the window won't last forever.
Swaim stated that if the windows are repaired correctly, they can be as energy efficient, perhaps more so, than a
replacement window. Petersons said that energy efficiency depends on the storm window; the long life of those
windows requires the right storm. She said that these storms do not seem to be original, but they have served their
purpose to protect the windows and probably need to be replaced with new so that there is something that operates
easily. Dennis agreed that the storms are not original.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
MAY 10, 2012
Page 3 of 7
Regarding the bedroom windows, Wagner asked if they are large enough to be egress windows or if they would
have to be casement windows. Peterson responded that to restore, one does not have to make that change; she said
that if the windows are replaced, they would have to be turned into casement windows. She added that the
application is for casement windows.
Wagner said there are seven windows total to be replaced and asked how many would be casement windows.
Peterson said there are two bedrooms, so at least one in each bedroom. Wagner said four would then be casements
and three would be double hung. Peterson said that the double hung would be the two on the left in the living room
and the one she showed on the other side of the house, which is a hall.
Wagner stated that one thing about the four casement windows is that the combination storm screens, when one
replaces some but doesn't replace others, stop matching. He said if one replaces the four double hungs with
casements, the combination storm screens have to go then, because one cannot open the window with that in place;
it would just be a screen.
Michaud said that casements can have a learning curve for some renters. She said also if there are some double
hung windows and some casements, the windows would not match.
Baker asked how much the window will be reduced in size by doubling the frame — how wide the frame is going to
be. Wagner said that if one stands on the inside of the window, then takes out the first box, then takes out the lower
sash, takes the ropes out, then takes out the stop to get the upper one out, and then there will just be the jamb on
either side. He said there is then the rough opening that the new window slides into.
Wagner said it would then have a track that the replacement windows slide into, and then they stop up against the
outside stop. He said there is maybe an inch and one -half lost, with three - quarters inch on either side, and then there
are the new sashes, which are metal clad.
Miklo said that, in terms of the guidelines, they do not allow the pocket where the entire new window can be slid in.
He said they allow sash replacement. Miklo said that if the Commission determines that these windows are badly
deteriorated, which is the first step, then the applicant would have to use an approved design, which the proposal is
not.
Peterson said she did not know what one would gain, because this would still involve dealing with lead paint if new
sashes are installed. She said the sashes here are good quality.
In terms of deterioration, Miklo said it basically involves maintenance. He said the putty would need to be replaced,
and the exterior would need to be painted. Miklo said one would want to do the interior paint as well, which would
mitigate the lead. He said there was quite a bit of cracking of paint on the exterior stop, which probably should be
replaced, and that would again mitigate lead.
Miklo said that when there is an application for window replacement, the owner is asked to supply some evidence of
deterioration, which is usually done with a photograph. He said there is usually obvious rot, dry rot. Miklo said the
photographs in this case did not show that, so staff looked at the windows and found that the sashes are actually in
good condition, and the glass was in good condition.
Regarding the lead -based paint, Wagner said abatement means to get rid of it, and then one can encapsulate it. He
said that abatement means one has to get it out of the house completely. Wagner said it is a perfectly acceptable
practice to encapsulate it. He said that one can paint over it with a latex paint, and chances are that has already been
done.
Miklo said that most of the lead paint is probably on the interior woodwork of the house. He said that the exterior
stop probably should be replaced, and most window repair people would replace that.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
MAY 10, 2012
Page 4 of 7
Wagner said that simply to get the windows out, one would have to take out the first stop, and the parting stop. He
said one takes the windows out whether they are replacement windows or non - replacement windows, or restoring
them or putting in replacement windows; one still has to take the windows out. Regarding the parting stops, Wagner
said one would buy new ones anyway or would use new ones that are wood. He said it is almost impossible to get a
sash out without breaking it. Wagner said it is a stock product that one can buy.
Downing asked if the woodwork was originally stained. He said there is always a chance that if it were stained and
not painted until the last 41 years that the paint would be latex and not lead.
Dennis said that the City did the lead testing. She did not have the results with her. Dennis said that the HF does a
lot of lead mitigation or encapsulation but tends not to do abatement. Wagner said that abatement refers to
everything.
Dennis said that the HF currently has 141 rental units. She said they were invited by the City Planning Department
to be a partner in the UniverCity Neighborhood Partnership. Dennis said the HF has 20 years of experience in
acquisition and rehabilitation. She said she has really good people doing the work.
Miklo asked Dennis if this was a conservation district when the HF purchased the property. Dennis confirmed this.
Miklo asked if Dennis was aware of the requirements. Dennis said she looked them up on the web.
Miklo said the question before the Commission is whether the application meets the requirements in the guidelines.
He said the first question is whether the windows are badly deteriorated. Miklo said he would defer to Peterson,
who inspected the windows, on this question.
Miklo said if the Commission determines that the windows are deteriorated to the extent that they should be
replaced, a replacement product that does not change the openings, etc. should be approved. He said that Peterson
has made her recommendation on both of these counts, and it is up to the Commission to decide.
Peterson said the application is for seven insert replacement windows.
MOTION: Michaud moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for an application for 1301 Muscatine
Street as presented in the application for the replacement of windows. Baldridge seconded the motion. The
motion failed on a vote of 0 -6 (Ackerson, Litton, McMahon and Thomann absent).
Dennis asked if this is a final decision. Miklo said the decision could be appealed to the Board of Adjustment.
Wagner stated that for the cost of the replacement windows plus the installation costs, which is just the cost of these
windows which would not be allowed anyway, one could probably get the windows at least restored and the lead -
based paint taken at least away from the window sashes and sill for that much or less. He said that might also leave
resources to buy new storms to make them work.
Spies asked, if they repair the windows and replace the non - functioning storms on the seven windows, they would
have to have approval. Miklo replied that storm windows do not require approval.
Michaud asked if there is a replacement product for new ropes. Downing said there are cotton and nylon
combination ropes and said that it is important to get the right diameter rope. Wagner agreed that if they are too
small, the ropes get hung up on the pulley.
REPORT ON CERTIFICATES ISSUED BY CHAIR AND STAFF:
Peterson said there were three certificates, one of which was a chimney removal for the previous applicant.
SUBCOMMITTEE REPORT ON POTENTIAL LOCAL HISTORIC DISTRICTS.
Jefferson Street National Historic District.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
MAY 10, 2012
Page 5 of 7
Swaim said the subcommittee met earlier in the day for about an hour. She said the subcommittee mainly discussed
the Jefferson Street District and basically just laid out the timeline of Jefferson Street going through the public
hearings, etc. Swaim said the subcommittee discussed some of the issues that might be encountered, including the
numbers of houses.
Swaim said the meeting was just to lay some groundwork in terms of Jefferson Street and discuss what issues might
be similar to the Melrose District.
Melrose National Historic District.
Regarding the Melrose District, Swaim said the subcommittee felt it best to become more familiar with the
neighborhood. She said that Walker, the district representative, agreed to give a walking tour of the neighborhood,
after which the subcommittee will hold more meetings. Swaim said the subcommittee in some cases will be going
through the same steps for the two districts. She added that they may differ in terms of speed and involvement and
such but will basically proceed at the same time.
Swaim said that, weather permitting, May 21 or May 29 or May 30 were suggested as potential dates for a walking
tour for the subcommittee. She asked members to let her know by e-mail which dates would work the best.
Swaim said she has received information from Walker so that everyone has the same documentation on the district.
Walker said that in 2008, the neighborhood submitted a document to the Historic Preservation Commission at its
February 28, 2008 meeting. She said she would like to present that again in an update and perhaps summarize the
discussions that took place at that time.
Swaim said the subcommittee got a good start. Michaud said the subcommittee had a lot of good ideas and plans to
contact a lot of people for support.
REPORT ON IOWA STATEWIDE HISTORIC PRESERVATION CONFERENCE.
Swaim said that she and Peterson attended the State Historic Preservation Conference in Decorah. She said there
were discussions that were very helpful, including a discussion on federal and state tax credits.
Swaim added that the keynote speaker was Donovan Rypkema, who has written extensively on the subject of
Historic Preservation. Rypkema spoke specifically about the economics of Historic Preservation and is trying to put
together a statement on the economic value of historic places; the jobs that are created; and savings created in terms
of money, landfill use, etc. Swaim said there are not a lot of figures available in terms of communities similar to
Iowa City. She said there are a lot of other ways to look at the value of an historic district, rather than just through
aesthetic value.
Swaim said she attended a session regarding window rehabilitation and preservation presented by David
Wadsworth, who had trained at the Campbell Center, which consists of an old college building or two that has its
students come in and work on rehabilitation projects. Swaim said Wadsworth took attendees to tour a building in
Decorah where he had redone the windows.
Swaim said it was a very invigorating and informative conference.
Peterson said she attended a session on log houses that discussed the history and presented a hands -on restoration
guide.
OTHER:
Swaim said that the Commission is looking for someone to fill Alicia Trimble's at -large spot. She said if anyone
has suggestions to let staff know.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
MAY 10, 2012
Page 6 of 7
Miklo said that an e-mail was sent regarding some training on May 22 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Public Library. He
said it will basically cover how to conduct the meetings to stay within the scope of the Iowa Open Meetings Act.
Miklo added that it will also review how to be effective as a Commission. He encouraged Commission members to
attend.
CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES FOR APRIL 12,2012:
MOTION: Michaud moved to approve the minutes of the Historic Preservation Commission's April 12, 2012
meeting, as written. Baldridge seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 6 -0 (Ackerson, Litton,
McMahon and Thomann absent).
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting was adjourned at 6:00 p.m.
Minutes submitted by Anne Schulte
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3b(3)
MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
JUNE 14, 2012
EMMA HARVAT HALL
APPROVED
MEMBERS PRESENT: Kent Ackerson, Esther Baker, Thomas Baldridge, William Downing, Andrew Litton,
Pam Michaud, Ginalie Swaim, Frank Wagner
MEMBERS ABSENT: David McMahon, Dana Thomann
STAFF PRESENT: Bob Miklo
OTHERS PRESENT: Robert Carlson, Justin Mulford, Wendy Robertson, Jennifer Wagner, Jean Walker, Tim
Weitzel, Lucie Laurian
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (become effective only after separate Council action)
None.
CALL TO ORDER: Swaim called the meeting to order at 5:15 p.m.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA:
There was none.
CERTIFICATES OF APPROPRIATENESS:
Congressional Church of Iowa City, 30 North Clinton Street.
Miklo said that this property is an Iowa City Landmark and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places a
number of years ago. He stated that it was then designated as a local landmark.
Miklo said the proposal is to replace the roof and repair the wood trim in the eaves. He showed an illustration
demonstrating where the asphalt shingles are showing signs of deterioration. Miklo said the proposal is also to
repair or replace portions of the wood trim in the eaves of the church.
Miklo said that along the southern wall of the church, the decorative work in the eaves was removed a number of
years ago and was replaced with a simplified design. He said the proposal is to use the (metal ?) in one area. Miklo
showed some close -ups that revealed some deterioration. He said that in other places it's difficult to tell from the
photographs, but there may be some additional wood rot.
Miklo said the roof being proposed is somewhat unique. He said that rather than using asphalt shingles, which have
a more limited lifespan, the proposal is to use a metal roof that has a coating similar to asphalt. Miklo distributed an
example to Commission members. He said that up close, it is obvious that this is metal, but from a distance, it does
have the appearance of an asphalt roof.
Miklo stated that the original roof on this building was most likely wood shake shingles that were replaced many
years ago. He said the guidelines indicate that for practical purposes, asphalt shingles of architectural grade that
have the appearance of shake are an appropriate alternative. Miklo said that in staff's opinion, although these are
not asphalt shingles, they have a similar appearance. He said that, given the application on such a large roof, staff
feels it would be an appropriate substitute material and would recommend it.
In terms of the decorative work in the eaves, Miklo said that staff would like to see more details. He said staff
would recommend approval of repair and replacement where the wood is severely damaged, but as much of the
historic material should be reused to the extent possible.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
JUNE 14, 2012
Page 2 of 9
Regarding the southern eave, where the proposal is to use metal, Miklo said that the preferred solution would be to
duplicate the wood design as used throughout the rest of the church. He said that because of the exposure there and
the close proximity of Phillips Hall, this does not get a lot of direct sunlight. Miklo said that water damage has
therefore been a problem here, and that is probably why it was replaced previously. He said staff would be open to a
metal substitute but would like to see a profile more similar to the historic profile.
Miklo said staff therefore recommends approval of the roof replacement, subject to more details regarding the extent
of wood rot so that as much of the original material as possible would be reused, and on the south exposure, staff
would like more detail regarding the design of the molding.
Carlson stated that he is the architect for this project. He said he has closely observed the majority of the wood.
Carlson said that most of the wood is in good shape; the paint has come off, but the wood is in good shape. He said
they believe that if they sand it to get back to a smooth surface, prime it properly, and repaint it, they will be able to
retain most of it. The wood that is not that way is the flat board fascia that is on that west face. Carlson said they
were showing some of the gaps in that. He said that down at the ends, one can see the pieces coming apart; it is the
flat board in behind that is really in bad shape.
Carlson said they believe they can duplicate that really well in a fypon material that will hold paint. He said that all
the decorative wood would be taken off, sanded, primed, and back painted, and then first coat paint on it and then
reinstalled. Carlson said the decorative element on that side would all be back. He said the ones that need to be
repaired would get repaired, but then that piece that is up against the brick, which is really the harness on that wood,
would be the fypon. Carlson said it would be stable, it gives a long length, and they can get the long lines in there
and hold the joints.
Carlson said they think they can get clear cedar in there to stay, but they just don't have the wide, good pieces of
board without knots, which are really getting hard to find, and that is why they thought they could go back to the
fypon. He said that if there are sections of that that are in good shape, they would use those elsewhere, where some
of the boards are not. Carlson said that the idea is mostly going back with the original wood, outside of that one
board.
Carlson said that they may of course find, when they take everything apart, that the back side is the problem. He
said that on the south side where they are proposing the metal, in the 1950s, the overhang was cut back. Carlson
said it is just about a foot now, where the overhang on the other side is quite a bit deeper. He said that in trying to
come back with something decorative, the shape and style would have to be significantly different.
Carlson said that one can basically see that off the handicapped entrance ramp on Phillips Hall. Carlson said that if
that metal face is the same color as the wood, it wouldn't be noticeable.
Carlson said the big advantage with the metal is that it will be a fully vented soffit. He said they want to get more
air up into the attic. Carlson said that on the north side, they have found some condensation coming down out of the
roof through some of the grooves. He stated that the interior of that roof does not follow the exterior, so there is
actually a fairly reasonable attic space up toward the top. Carlson said that if they can introduce more air up there,
they think they can pull more of the moisture out.
Carlson said that one of the other advantages of the metal batten roof is that they get the battens underneath so they
will be able to pull air up under the metal. He said that will help keep the sheathing dry and help get a little more
moisture out of that roof. Carlson said the building was not designed to have humidity in it. He said that now that
humidity is added for modern comfort, they need to get it back out of the roof system.
Michaud said this sounds reasonable and asked about the fypon. Carlson responded that it is a synthetic material, a
polyurethane product. He said it comes in various thicknesses, and they would be going back in with something
three - quarters to seven - eighths, nominally the same thickness as that board. Carlson said that it can be milled just
like wood. He said he worked on the exterior of the Shambaugh House, and the trim pieces on that that went back
are all fypon. Carlson said it actually mills more nicely than wood does. Miklo stated that another place the
Commission has allowed fypon to be used is on the Mansion on South Gilbert Street.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
JUNE 14, 2012
Page 3 of 9
Baldridge asked if there has been any discussion of replacing the finials that historically were on the lower part of
the church. Carlson replied that the finials were removed because they were damaged and having problems at that
time. He said that it would cost a lot to go back and put them back and that they were removed for a reason.
Carlson said they are all carved wood. He said the steeple was once struck by lightning, and at that point in time,
several things were simplified because of all the problems they were having. Carlson said the lightning strike really
drove them to make some changes. He said the finials would be expensive to put back, and for two of them, the
masonry is actually gone — it was removed down below the roof level and the roof was then extended over it.
Downing asked if the old shingles will be removed. Carlson confirmed this. He said there was plywood installed
over the sheathing in the 1990s. He said they are assuming, based on what they have seen, that the plywood
sheathing is still in good shape. Carlson said it doesn't have to be in great shape, because they are putting the board
and battens over it. He stated that anything that is really badly delaminated would be replaced, but he does not think
they will see that at this point.
Michaud asked if any insulation will be installed. Carlson said they have talked about it, but at this point they think
it will not. He said the only insulation one would get would be the foil that would reflect the heat back off. He said
the church is not having a problem with the cooling load, and this will actually improve the cooling load. Carlson
said that going back and installing the foil underneath will stop the transmittance of the moisture up. He said they
are thinking they will lose more than they will gain.
Wagner asked about staff's recommendation on the roof material. Miklo said staff recommends approval.
Wagner asked Carlson if they would also be doing the steeple with this material. Carlson said they originally
planned to do the steeple with this same metal. He said, however, that they talked to the roofer and found out that
they make a triple -thick asphalt shingle that is almost a dead ringer for color and texture. Carlson said that it may
lay better. He said that on the curve and the intersections, it may lay better.
Wagner asked how the edges will be finished. He said that with the flat shingle, there would be a pretty good -sized
gap there. Carlson replied that there is a J mold at the end on the ridge. He said that piece that is on there now
would be replaced with a custom - folded J mold so that the shingle would slide in on both sides. Carlson said there
would not therefore be a sealant joint at that point.
Carlson said that with the original pitch of the church, those were wood battens on there. He said that has been there
and really makes the steeple stand out. Carlson said that they have been discussing with the roofer whether the
metal or the asphalt would be a better solution for the steeple.
MOTION: Ackerson moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for an application for 30 North
Clinton Street as presented in the application, with the following condition: provide roof edge details,
including wood and metal components, for review and approval by Chair and staff. Baldridge seconded the
motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8 -0 (McMahon and Thomann absent).
4 Bella Vista Place.
Miklo said this property is a key property in the Brown Street Historic District and is located just north of Brown
Street on Bella Vista Place. He said there is a garage and small breezeway on the south side of the house. Miklo
said that about a year ago, the Commission approved the removal of the garage and the replacement of the garage
with an addition to the house.
Miklo said the homeowners have since decided they would rather preserve the structure and convert it to living
space. He added that the proposal is to remove the pedestrian door, fill that in with windows, and then replace the
garage door with windows and a pedestrian door.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
JUNE 14, 2012
Page 4 of 9
Miklo said that when this was last reviewed, the previous preservation consulting architect thought that the garage
was not a significant element. He said that when she reviewed this, Chery Peterson felt that the garage was
somewhat important as it is an attached garage that is either original to the house or was added early in its history.
Miklo said Peterson therefore thought there was some merit to preserving the appearance. He said staff
recommends approval subject to the area that currently contains the garage door being trimmed out and that the
windows or doors mimic what was there before. He showed an example of a converted garage with a similar
treatment that is located at Bowery and Clark Streets.
Miklo said staff therefore recommends approval of this subject to chair and staff approving the details in terms of
what would go in place of the original opening.
Jennifer Wagner, one of the owners, said that the drawing doesn't show over the garage door coming down on the
left, where there would also be divisions, lines coming down from the windows above. She said there would be
three panels there, and the lower one in the example would be solid. Jennifer Wagner said that Peterson had shown
them photographs of the French doors that staff felt would look good. She said she and her husband agreed with
that assessment and propose to use a Weather Shield French panel three door.
Michaud asked if it would work to have a half light divided on the top, because that would be a little closer to the
four panel on the bottom and the six lights on top. Miklo said it would be closer, but the proposal now is to have
this be similar to the Bowery Street property, where there would be more glass. He said it is not going to look like a
garage, but at least the opening would be preserved.
Michaud said she was taking climate control into consideration, because the area faces straight west. Jennifer
Wagner said this is a valid point. Wagner suggested the Commission could approve either alternative — mimicking
the design that is there or using the French doors.
MOTION: Michaud moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for an application for 4 Bella Vista
Place, as presented in the application, with the following condition: provide final design, with door and
window product information, for review and approval by Chair and staff, as necessary, for the three French
doors or a design mimicking the original door panel. Baker seconded the motion. The motion carried on a
vote of 8 -0 (McMahon and Thomann absent)
523 Grant Street.
Miklo showed the location of the property on a map. He said the proposal is to remove a porch, which staff does not
believe is original, off the back of the house, and replace it with a new addition /structure.
Miklo showed a design, stating that it is a little different than the one in the Commission packet in that it shows the
removal of a window, the addition of a beam similar to the front porch, and shorter windows in another location. He
said that staff would recommend this alternative or the one in the packet but would want to have it be as shown,
similar to the front porch, and would like more details regarding the porch pillar.
Miklo said Peterson felt that the one window was a little tight in its proposed location and might get a little bit
awkward. He said that Peterson then suggested the new design, and staff is comfortable recommending either.
Regarding the larger windows, Robertson, one of the owners, said that the idea is to try to fit a lot of different
purposes into a small space, and one purpose is that kind of conservatory off the back. She said that the smaller
windows would be fine, if that is what is preferred. Regarding the beam piece, Robertson said it should be there.
Swaim asked if there is a step up to the door. Weitzel, the other homeowner, said there will probably not be a step
up. He said that the diagonal line on the side of the drawing is the ground line right now.
Baldridge asked if the original plan had a lower window sill. Weitzel replied that in the first proposal, the windows
on the elevation matched the original window on the right, which is a fairly large window. Robertson said the
window on the south elevation still matches the ones on the south of the house.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
JUNE 14, 2012
Page 5 of 9
Downing said that a shorter window would have a higher sill. Weitzel said Peterson thought that might work better,
although he did not know if it was for long -term adaptability or because they are smaller windows.
Michaud asked if the door would have a half light on top. Weitzel said that is the plan, instead of a full glass door.
He said it will probably be a fiberglass door for ease of use and security.
MOTION: Litton moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for an application for 523 Grant Street,
as presented in the application but with either window design, with the following condition: provide final
design details at the column and door, for review and approval by Chair and staff. Baldridge seconded the
motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8 -0 (McMahon and Thomann absent).
111 & 115 South Governor Street.
Swaim said these two properties are in the College Hill Conservation District. Miklo showed the location of the
properties on a map. He said they are between College and Washington Streets on the west side of Governor Street.
Miklo said 111 S. Governor is a classic foursquare house, and 115 S. Governor is a craftsman style house, built in
the first quarter of the last century. He stated that both of these houses are contributing structures in the district.
Miklo said the proposal is to remove both structures and replace them with a fraternity house.
Miklo stated that the Commission had received sketches of how that might look but not full, detailed plans. He
showed an illustration of the back of the property. Miklo said the application proposal states that there are problems
with the foundations of the two houses, and there was a report from an engineer indicating that there are some
defects with the foundations. He said that staff and a consulting housing inspector viewed the houses with the
applicant.
Miklo said that for the most part, the foundations are not exposed, so that it is difficult to see. He said that in some
locations, such as under the porch where the foundations are exposed, there is some slight deterioration but nothing
unexpected in buildings of this age. Miklo said staff feels that although there has been some neglect to these
properties in terms of maintenance and there are some issues with some of the additions that could be fixed, the
main structures are still sound and repairable.
Miklo stated that, according to the guidelines and what the Commission needs to follow in making a decision like
this, there are basically three tests to determine if the application meets the guidelines. He said that one test is that
the buildings are structurally unsound. Miklo said there is a report indicating that there are some defects. He added
that the consulting architect, Peterson, and the consulting housing inspector agree that there are some defects but that
the buildings are not structurally unsound.
Miklo said, if the Commission answers yes to the first question, the second test is, are they irretrievable or
irreparable. He said that again staff finds that the answer to that question is no — that the problems with the
foundations and some of the other deterioration of these buildings could certainly be repaired. Miklo said there
would be some expense involved, but that would be maintenance of the property.
Miklo said the third question is whether the replacement building meets the design guidelines. He said that staff
cannot really answer that question at this point, as the applicant did not want to spend the money to come up with a
design if there was not a possibility of removing the existing buildings.
Miklo said that staff is therefore recommending that this application be denied, because it does not meet the
guidelines in terms of two of the key tests, with the third test as yet unknown. He added that there is something
called demolition by neglect, which would indicate that if the Commission does not approve this, there should be
some repair taken. Miklo said that is something that the City's Inspection Department would look at before issuing
new rental permits for these properties.
Male asked Mulford, the applicant, if it is his opinion that these properties are structurally deficient. Mulford
answered that he had an engineer come through, and the footings on both of the front porches have basically
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
JUNE 14, 2012
Page 6 of 9
decayed. He said when they laid all the supporting members of the structures, they laid them lengthwise across the
entire house; they didn't take them from the house, lag them to the house, and then run them out to supporting
structures in the front. Mulford said the porches actually kind of swale and puddle; they puddle water whenever rain
comes in from the side. He said the porches need a lot of work, and one of the porches has a crack up where it
meets the house, and the siding is pulling away from the house, because the footing structures of the porches are
deteriorating a lot faster than the actual foundation.
Mulford said that on the back of 115 South Governor, the far left corner has actually settled two to three inches. He
said it was an old deck converted into a kitchen. Mulford said the floor system needs some significant work. It
needs to be jacked up. He said there is a good amount of foundation work, outside of the fact that they are not
waterproofed. Mulford said they are all clay tile. Mulford said there is a significant amount of work that a
foundation company would need to do to make these buildings last for more than five years. He said that at the rate
they are going, five to ten years down the road they are going to start to have extreme amounts of damage.
Ackerson asked about the clay tile. Mulford said there is a crawl space underneath the other side of it, but then that
ends where it juts out a little bit, and then it is just open to air. He said there is a lattice that is just open.
Michaud asked if the deterioration was just the corner piers or the entire porch. Mulford responded that just the
corner piers where they are exposed to the elements.
Downing said that periodic maintenance and repair are necessary for any building. The defects do not rise to the
level requiring the demolition of the entire structure. He said the Commission sees a lot of porch repair. Downing
added that a five -year life span on a 90- year -old clay tile foundation is probably an exaggeration. He said that a
large percentage of houses in this area have clay tile foundations, and he wouldn't say that they are going to collapse
in the next five years.
Mulford said he does not mean the entire foundation but just certain areas. He said the clay tiles in the back corner
and some of the clay tiles in the front porches have deteriorated.
Michaud asked how the houses are classified for rent. Mulford said they have been grandfathered in as rooming
houses, which are allowed one person per bedroom. He said one house has seven bedrooms, and the other has eight.
Wagner said this was discussed at a previous Commission meeting, and he asked what had changed. Miklo
responded that this involves an actual application, whereas that was just an informational discussion.
Mulford said that if this is approved for a certificate of appropriateness for demolition, he would like to construct a
building to be consistent with the neighborhood. He said there are at least four sororities in that neighborhood, and
this neighborhood is there to preserve the Greek society. Mulford said he would basically be adding to the Greek
society by putting a new structure here, something similar to the Alpha Chi house that was demolished in the
tornado and then redone.
Swaim said the commission will evaluate this based on the guidelines contained in the Historic Preservation
Handbook. Laurian asked if there is a requirement that an owner keep up his property, or if an owner can let it go for
another ten years and then say that it needs to be demolished. Miklo answered that the City's requirements do have
a provision regarding demolition by neglect. He said that the Historic Preservation Commission can certainly ask
the Housing Inspection Department to take a closer look at these properties, in terms of what needs to be done to
stabilize the porches, etc. Michaud said it was crucial to repair the kitchen deck area.
MOTION: Downing moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for an application for 111 and 115
South Governor Street. Litton seconded the motion.
Baker stated that the guidelines seem very clear in this type of situation. Looking at section 7.1 of the Historic
Preservation Handbook, she said that removing any primary building is disallowed unless it meets the criteria.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
JUNE 14, 2012
Page 7 of 9
Regarding whether the buildings are unsound, Baker said there are clearly some things that need to be repaired.
Regarding whether the buildings are irreparable, she stated that there are enough people at the table with experience
in this who would say that it will cost some money, but the porches and kitchen and those kinds of things are
reparable, and we have not seen a replacement plan.
Regarding demolition by neglect, Baker said the guidelines in point two require that all structures in conservation
and historic districts must be preserved against decay and deterioration to prevent demolition by neglect. She said
that because the problems are not insurmountable, she does not think there is justification to make an allowance
here. Baker said the Commission has disallowed the demolition of houses that are in worse repair than these two
houses. She said there is no precedent to make an exception here.
Ackerson asked how the City would guarantee there would not be demolish by neglect. Miklo commented that the
City has a couple of tools in this regard. He said the City could cite the owner(s) for violating this clause, and there
is also the possibility that the City might not renew or might pull the rental permits if inspectors find that this repair
work is not done.
The motion failed on a vote of 0 -8 (McMahon and Thomann absent).
MOTION: Baker moved that the Commission request that the Iowa City Housing Department inspect these
properties for repairs and defects. Michaud seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8 -0
(McMahon and Thomann absent).
REPORT ON CERTIFICATES ISSUED BY CHAIR AND STAFF:
Miklo said there were a number of certificates of no material affect for which repairs were approved. He said he
would answer any questions from Commission members.
SUBCOMMITTEE REPORT ON POTENTIAL LOCAL HISTORIC DISTRICTS.
Miklo said that the Commission is exploring both Jefferson Street and the Melrose Neighborhood as historic
districts and is doing some of the research and legwork at this point, before going public with the proposals.
Jefferson Street National Historic District.
Swaim said the subcommittee has not discussed this district further but has focused on the Melrose historic district.
Melrose National Historic District.
Swaim stated that Walker had volunteered to give the Commission members a walking tour of the Melrose
Neighborhood. Swaim said that four or five Commission members went on the tour and that it was very
educational.
Swaim said that she and Miklo recently met with several members of the Melrose Neighborhood Executive Board
for about two hours. She said the members wanted to have some basic questions answered, and it was a very helpful
discussion. Swaim said there will be a neighborhood -wide meeting at some point to discuss the proposal and what it
will mean.
Walker thanked Swaim and Miklo for their presentation and said it was excellent. Walker commented that
neighborhood members would be happy to do walking tours with members of the City Council as well as with
University officials.
CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES FOR MAY 10, 2012:
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
JUNE 14, 2012
Page 8 of 9
MOTION: Baldridge moved to approve the minutes of the Historic Preservation Commission's May 10, 2012
meeting, as written. Wagner seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8 -0 (McMahon and Thomann
absent).
RaL9103,0118IG10INS
The meeting was adjourned at 6:12 p.m.
Minutes submitted by Anne Schulte
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MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
JULY 12, 2012
EMMA HARVAT HALL
APPROVED
MEMBERS PRESENT: Kent Ackerson, Thomas Baldridge, William Downing, Shannon Gassman,
Andrew Litton, Pam Michaud, Frank Wagner
MEMBERS ABSENT: Esther Baker, David McMahon, Ginalie Swaim, Dana Thomann
STAFF PRESENT: Chery Peterson, Bob Miklo
OTHERS PRESENT: Jeff Clark, Jeffrey Cox, Alicia Trimble, David Van Dusseldorp, Steve Vincent,
Owen Wagner,
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (become effective only after separate Council action)
None.
CALL TO ORDER: Vice Chairperson Litton called the meeting to order at 5:20 p.m.
Litton welcomed Shannon Gassman as the Commission's newest member, in an at -large position.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA:
Regarding the application for 602 E. Washington, Cox said that he is concerned about the green space
that is behind the synagogue. He asked the Commission to consider, during the plan review, the
preservation of the green space for that site.
Cox said that this is a site of historical and cultural interest that is important to the integrity of the
neighborhood. He said it contains gardens with Biblical plants, that is, plants that were mentioned in the
Old Testament.
Cox said this is also important to the integrity of College Green Park — that the site is in effect a private
park that constitutes an extension of College Green Park. He said that if one puts a development there
that is a solid row of houses across Washington Street, it will end the sense of expansiveness in College
Green Park.
CERTIFICATES OF APPROPRIATENESS:
Litton stated that the Brown Street application would not be discussed at the meeting.
602 E. Washinqton Street (new townhouse development).
Peterson said this property is in the College Hill Conservation District. She said it is the site of the
synagogue at the corner of Johnson and Washington Streets.
Regarding the synagogue building, Peterson said that much of it was built in the 1990s, and the site
inventory form for this building states that it is non - contributing, and the district has this building as non -
historic. She showed a view of the building from College Green Park looking toward the north. Peterson
showed the other property on this block, the house on the corner of Washington and Dodge Streets. She
showed a view, looking to the east, of the houses facing the park from Dodge Street, and another view
showing the houses on Johnson Street that are just west of the property.
Peterson said the new development would consist of two rows of townhouses with six units in each row.
She said they would have a common driveway down the center that is accessed from one driveway on
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
JULY 12, 2012
Page 2 of 10
Johnson Street, on the west end of the site. Peterson said there would be six units facing the park and
six units fronting the alley and the creek. She showed the elevations of the proposed development.
Peterson said the garage basement level would be a rock - faced, masonry unit, and the levels above
would be fiber - cement board, lap siding. She added that the gables and some of the ornament would be
a fiber - cement, shingle product. Peterson said the windows are all solid aluminum; some double hung,
some of the casement style and some awnings. She said that both the entry doors and the garage doors
would be a fiberglass type.
Peterson said there are quite a few categories of review for this project. Regarding demolition, Peterson
said staff is advising that because this is a non - contributing, existing building, it is not eligible for the
National Register and demolition would be appropriate.
Peterson said there are specific requirements for the College Hill Neighborhood. She said those include:
the building style reflecting the historic style of the neighborhood and that the height and mass be
compatible with the surrounding neighborhood. Peterson said this design does appear to meet the intent
and requirements of the guidelines, with the exception of the overall size of the front fagade. She said it
will be much larger than the 1,200 square foot allowed maximum, although it is broken into modules and it
does have massing that matches the neighborhood.
Regarding multi - family buildings, Peterson pointed out again that this is broken into the modules. She
said it meets the requirements for entrance design, parking design, and setback. Peterson said staff had
a question about site lighting that can be confirmed.
Peterson said this has also been reviewed with regard to the guidelines for new construction. She said
staff had some specific questions for the applicant to confirm, but otherwise, staff is recommending
approval.
Clark, the applicant, said he was available to answer questions.
Michaud said that in the past, a lot of time was spent discussing the target market for this neighborhood.
She said that is really not the Commission's purview. Michaud said she likes the design of this a lot. She
said the density is not so high, and in general, people she has talked to have had very favorable
reactions. Michaud said people are concerned about whether these units will be sold to market or will be
rentals.
Clark responded that they will be rental units, although he expects them to be sold some day.
Michaud said, with the future in mind, if it wouldn't expand Clark's market a little bit to have some front fill
toward the east end or whichever end if appropriate, to go accommodate universal design so that at some
point the building would be ADA accessible. Clark responded that if needed in the future, it could be
ramped at some point, but he agreed that some modifications would have to be made for that.
Michaud said that, as it is, the original design was going to be infill in the front. She asked if that now
would not be filled in. Clark said it will have some fill. He said that as one comes up there will be fill
through there and then come around, but it does dive off a little bit there once it gets around the building.
Michaud stated that each end is like a twelve -foot drop. Peterson said the drawings make it look like the
finish grade will match the sidewalk elevations.
Michaud said it just jumped out at her that there are a lot of steps, because there are basically four levels.
Clark said there are bushes and everything there, and there will be fill there. Wagner commented that
from the sidewalk, one does not go down and back up again on that far east end; that would be
eliminated. Clark confirmed this.
Michaud said that then actually maybe the top of the garage is about twelve feet. Clark said he did not
know if it is twelve feet there, because right now it might be roughly nine or ten feet, because as one
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
JULY 12, 2012
Page 3 of 10
comes in that back area, it does go up a little bit from grade. He said he thought the garage was a little
bit less than twelve feet there.
Michaud said it is more like one just doesn't want a really tall garage for no reason. Clark confirmed this
and said that it keeps the building down by keeping it lower in back there. Michaud said it does look as
though this will be more like a homeowner garage rather than a commercial garage. Clark said that is
correct.
Michaud asked if there is any possibility of doing some kind of solar panels to provide hot water or if that
would be overly expensive. Clark replied that he believes it would be very expensive. He said there
would have to be multiple panels because there are separate utilities for the units. Clark said he did not
know how many solar panels it would take to do that.
Michaud said this design is pleasing. She added that this roofline is much more appropriate for the
neighborhood than a flat roof.
Miklo said that a concern has been raised about the open space and some of the landscaping on this site.
He said that in terms of reviewing this application, the Commission has a set of requirements and
guidelines that it needs to follow. Miklo said that if this was a landmark property or an historic property,
then those sorts of features could be taken into consideration. He said that this is in a conservation
district, however, and it is not an historic property in terms of the Commission's criteria.
Miklo said he believes the Commission's hands are probably tied in terms of considering those concerns.
He said that what the Commission should look at is, as outlined by Peterson, whether this meets the
guidelines, and if there are any exceptions to be considered. Miklo said the one exception is that this
exceeds the maximum 1,200 square foot fagade on any one street, but staff feels it meets the intent
because of the distinction of the smaller modules and the use of quality building materials that exceed
what would normally be required. He said that is why staff is recommending this exception.
Peterson said there was one other condition to add to the list of things staff would want to see verified,
and that is a detailed landscaping plan. Downing said that would be required by the building department
anyway. Peterson said the applicant has modified that plan by working with staff, and staff would want to
follow through with that. Miklo said staff would like to see a little more detail. He said the landscaping
being installed here is very important because of the size of the foundation. Miklo said that the plan to
landscape it by terracing out will help and will bring it closer to scale with the neighborhood, but staff
would just like more details.
Michaud said that people who she showed these plans to thought it was great to have both an open deck
and a screened deck. She said that in the future, possibly the screened porch could become a closed -in
bedroom for universal design. Michaud said that if it had suitable flooring, that might be possible at some
point.
Peterson said staff questioned the proportion of the end window in the attic space. She said that when
one looks at each row of units, only the end units get that third window, and it looks too big for the scale
of the gable. Clark said he could change that. Peterson said it appears that the required egress windows
are all on the driveway sides.
Michaud asked if it will be necessary to use any of the cylindrical 'light tube' skylights for light. Clark said
his preference would be to go with the standard style, because they allow more light, and they don't have
the condensation issues that the tubular ones sometimes do.
Baldridge said this plan would occupy all of the territory. Clark confirmed this. Baldridge asked if Frank
Riehl has looked at this, because Riehl had been concerned about how close to his property this
development would come.
Clark replied that this stays 20 feet off the property line, instead of the required seven feet. He said they
do that to address concerns of the neighborhood. Clark said they reduced everything down because of
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
JULY 12, 2012
Page 4 of 10
the expressed concerns.
Michaud asked if the alley will remain a functional access. Clark confirmed this. He said that the eight- or
ten -foot sidewalk that is going down through there is public access.
Michaud said this ties in with Cox's concern that there be some green space with the creek. She asked if
there is a regulation to have a ten -foot wide drive then. Clark replied that he thinks it was a desire to get
rid of the gravel.
Miklo stated that the area between the north sidewalk and the creek will be open space and will have to
be improved as part of the sensitive areas zoning requirement. He said that is beyond what is shown on
this site plan. Miklo said the reason it will have to be improved is because there is a provision in the
zoning code that regulates stream corridors. He said this is adjacent to a stream, and there are
provisions there regarding open space, control of erosion, and that type of thing.
Trimble asked if there is a requirement that the alley be maintained. Miklo said that the City will require
that the alley be at least at its current state or improved. He said the preference would be that the alley
be improved, because it provides pedestrian access to this property and would also provide access for
lawnmowers or maintenance equipment for the property to the east, which also relies on the same alley.
Miklo said staff would not want to see the alley remain as gravel, which it is not; it is basically
grandfathered in.
Cox asked if part of the alley is going to be maintained by the property owner. Miklo said that is correct.
Cox asked if the City is vacating part of the alley. Miklo said the City is not vacating any part of the alley.
He said the City would maintain the alley, but the present condition would be improved in terms of cement
versus gravel.
Cox asked how much space there would be between the edge of the pavement and the creek. Miklo said
he did not know how many feet there are between the creek and the pavement without looking at a more
detailed plan. He showed on a map the entire property that the synagogue currently owns.
Cox said then that from the edge of the pavement, which is partly City property but maintained by the
property owner, to the creek bed will be the responsibility of the City to do something with that creek bed.
Miklo said that is not the case. He stated that as part of the site plan approval, which is in conjunction
with the building permit and in terms of the zoning regulations, the City is going to require the
enhancement of the creek bank.
Cox asked if plans have been made in terms of what the enhancement will consist of. Miklo said the
planning has not yet reached that point. He said the determination will be made by the building official in
consultation with the Planning Department and the Public Works Department. Miklo confirmed that it will
be an administrative /staff decision, and there will not be public input.
Cox asked what staff has in mind to do with the creek bed. Miklo said this will be discussed in detail with
the building official and city engineer. He said his thoughts are that the bank be stabilized, with probably
some rock being brought in, some of the undesirable trees will need to be removed, and appropriate
plantings, either trees or a native plant mix, would be put in their place.
Cox asked if the public will have access to the alley. Miklo said that is correct. Cox asked if the public will
also have access to the creek bed — if people can walk down there. Miklo said they can walk down there,
but technically it is private property. He said he believes it is owned by the property owners on either
side; at least between the creek and the alley there is some private property. Miklo said the alley is
owned by the City, and then there is intervening property owned by the synagogue and Dick Patchell,
who owns some property between the bank and the actual publicly -owned land.
Cox asked if any part of the City -owned alley will be beyond the pavement or is the entire alley right -of-
way to be paved over. Miklo showed a point on the map beyond which the alley will remain grass. Cox
said there is a place where people can walk down to the creek bed where there is access. Miklo replied
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
JULY 12, 2012
Page 5 of 10
that that situation will not change. He said that the area between the alley and the creek bed will still be
private property, and if the property owner wanted to tell someone he is trespassing, he has the right to
do that today and will still have the right to do that in the future. Miklo said he does not think that is likely
however.
MOTION: Wagner moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for an application for 602 E.
Washington Street as presented in the application, with the following conditions: provide
information on all exterior lighting; provide information on the posts supporting the screen
porches; verify window muntin style, and window sizes, and provide product information for
entrance doors; provide product information and a sample of the masonry veneer product; verify
use of smooth rather than textured finish for fiber cement clapboard siding; provide a detailed
landscaping plan; with these items to be reviewed and approved by the chair and staff. Ackerson
seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 7 -0 (Baker, McMahon, Swaim and Thomann
absent).
MOTION: Michaud moved to approve demolition of the synagogue building at 602 E Washington
Street for the proposed project. Wagner seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 7 -0
(Baker. McMahon. Swaim and Thomann absent).
425 Oakland Avenue.
Peterson said this property is in the Longfellow Historic District. She showed the front view of the house
and said that the garage is accessed from the alley off the back. Peterson said the existing garage would
be torn down, with a new two -car garage to be built in its place. She showed the garage to the north and
the garage to the south for reference.
Peterson said the packet contains a lot of information about the proposed garage. She said that a lot of
requirements that are pre- approved by the Commission for garages will be incorporated in this garage,
including the overhangs, the trim, and the type of doors and windows. Peterson said this is spelled out in
the recommended motion: that it be confirmed that the overhangs are 18 inches; that there is trim around
the doors, windows, corner boards, frieze boards, and vents; that the fiber cement lap siding being
proposed be the smooth type; that the pedestrian and the overhead door be fiberglass. She said the one
difference is that instead of two doors, the owner is proposing one double -wide door. Peterson said it
would be a simple, flush, overhead door, without panels.
Peterson said staff has been told that the existing garage has been beat up quite a bit and that it is really
beyond repair.
Van Dusseldorp said that he is the son of the homeowner and grew up in this home. He said that this
spring, a tree came down and knocked the corner of the garage. Van Dusseldorp said the garage is now
off - kilter. He said that repair is not a realistic option, and, for an elderly lady trying to drive from a narrow
alley into a narrow, single -wide garage, the double -wide door will be a nice improvement.
Van Dusseldorp said he had a question about the style of the proposed garage. He said he understood
the preference for a smooth finish on the overhead door but asked why the recommendation for the
swinging door is different.
Miklo said the requirement for the overhead garage door is either that it be a carriage -style door, as
illustrated in the guidelines, or that it have a smooth finish. He added that a pedestrian door should be a
panel door, which would be more historic. Miklo said he did not believe the Commission had ever
approved just a flat door for a pedestrian door.
Miklo said the reason the guidelines include the flat door for the garage overhead door is because the
carriage house doors were really not available until recently, or they were not available without great
expense. He said that is why the choice is to use something that does not call attention to itself, like a
fake panel door, whereas a pedestrian door with panels made of fiberglass is quite similar in appearance
to historic doors.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
JULY 12, 2012
Page 6 of 10
Van Dusseldorp said a carriage door might be appropriate if this were a prairie style or bungalow style or
something like that. Miklo said it would be appropriate on this garage, because the house was probably
built in the 1920s or 1930s, and carriage -style doors would have been common at that time.
Michaud asked Van Dusseldorp about other options. Van Dusseldorp said it could have a carriage look
as an overhead door. Peterson said the guidelines state that a simple style is also acceptable.
Peterson said that for the recommend motion, she should have included that the pedestrian door and the
garage door would be of fiberglass. Miklo said that the overhead door could actually be of metal instead
of fiberglass.
MOTION: Ackerson moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for an application for 425
Oakland Avenue, as presented in the application, with the following conditions: the roof overhang
be 18 inches; install trim around all doors, windows, and vents, and include corner boards and
frieze boards; fiber cement board to be installed with smooth finish; and the pedestrian door to be
a fiberglass panel door. Baldridge seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 7 -0
(Baker. McMahon. Swaim and Thomann absent).
728 Rundell Street.
Peterson said this property is in the Longfellow Historic District. She said the Commission looked at this
house back in April. Peterson showed before photographs, and current photographs.
Peterson said the owner proposes to replace the front steps, remove the awning, and also redo the siding
on the dormer. She said the owner proposes to use the same siding that is seen on the side: the cedar,
lap siding. Peterson said that staff feels that the awning and the brick side walls to the entry stoop are not
original and that it would be appropriate to take those off and redo the front steps with new poured -in
place steps and stoop and a simple metal handrail on the sides. She said staff has those
recommendations, and everything else about the application is otherwise okay.
Michaud asked if there won't be any overhang at all. Vincent, the owner of the house, said the roof
projects outward about 18 inches, similar to another Moffitt house in the neighborhood. He said there is
no awning per se, just the overhang of the roof.
Vincent said the proposal is to change the type of siding on the dormer, which is now vertical siding. He
said the vertical siding is not original. Vincent said it is inconsistent with the identical dormer in the rear,
which has clapboard, horizontal siding, and it is inconsistent with the other Moffitt house in the
neighborhood that has a similar dormer on the front with horizontal siding.
MOTION: Wagner moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for an application for 728
Rundell Street, as presented in the application, with poured in place concrete and simple wrought
iron railings on the new porch. Baldridge seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of
7 -0 (Baker. McMahon, Swaim and Thomann absent).
833 Rundell Street.
Peterson said this property is in the Dearborn Conservation District. She said the proposal is to add a
dormer on the south side of the house as part of finishing out the attic. Peterson said the siding currently
on the house appears to be aluminum, and the owners had discussed matching it. Peterson said one
suggestion she had is that if the owners use fiber cement board, perhaps the dormer could be a narrower
exposure than the big, wide aluminum.
Owen Wagner, the designer, said he thinks the metal siding is eight or six inches wide. Peterson said it
would be okay to have the narrower board on the dormer. She said the aluminum can't be original
anyway.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
JULY 12, 2012
Page 7 of 10
Miklo asked Owen Wagner if he knows what is under the aluminum. Owen Wagner said that he did not
know. Frank Wagner said he would assume that it is wood. Miklo said that if Owen Wagner could
somehow investigate to find out what is underneath, he could match it so that if the aluminum ever comes
off, the upper part would match. Owen Wagner said that would be the ideal — to tear it all off. Peterson
said the dormer is a smaller form, and she thought it could have the narrower board and still look okay
with the wider siding on the house.
Peterson said the proposal is to add a couple of skylights on the north part of the roof. She showed
drawings of the proposed skylights. Regarding the windows on the east, Peterson said the intent seems
to be to do a divided window as in the picture, with the three over one double hung sash. She said that is
what is shown in the dormer, too, and that is what would be expected for any of the windows. Owen
Wagner said there is sort of a mixed bag of the six over one and three over one existing on the house
right now.
Michaud referred to the front entry way that appears to be an enclosed porch. She said she thought it
might be compatible with the original house to have two windows in the dormer. Michaud said that is
what is on the gable end.
Peterson said the guidelines state that the front of the dormers should have as much glass as possible.
Owen Wagner said he was trying to match the massing of the porch with the three windows.
Peterson said, based on the application, staff needs to know if the windows are to be the Andersen or
Marvin windows and also verify that they would be the type of simulated, divided lights that are approved
by the guidelines, and verify the pitch of the roof on the dormer. She said the pitch looks like it could be a
little too flat in the drawing. Peterson said the guidelines require review of the skylights, so product
information for those would need to be provided.
Owen Wagner asked if aluminum clad wood windows are acceptable. He said they would be using
Andersen windows. Peterson said that would be acceptable if they make the muntin bars that are
permanently adhered to the glass on both the interior and exterior.
MOTION: Wagner moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for an application for 833
Rundell Street as presented in the application with the following conditions: verify Andersen or
Marvin windows, window sizes, and type of grille at simulated divided lights; verify roof pitch of
new dormer; provide product information for the skylights; with these items to be reviewed and
approved by the chair and staff. Gassman seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of
6 -0 (Downing abstaining: Baker. McMahon. Swaim and Thomann absent).
DEMOLITION BY NEGLECT.
304 S. Summit Street.
Miklo said it was brought to staffs attention that there are some signs of neglect on an historic building at
the corner of Summit and Burlington Streets. He said the property is in the Summit Street Historic District
and is quite an important building. Miklo added that there is material in the packet pointing out the
importance of this property in the neighborhood and also in Iowa City history.
Miklo said that just from the street, without entering the property, there is evidence of deterioration. He
said the mortar is coming out of the brick, possibly due to gutters not being maintained. Miklo said there
may be more deterioration elsewhere in the building. Miklo said the guidelines have a provision regarding
demolition by neglect. He said staff put this in front of the Commission to consider whether it would like to
ask the building official to pursue enforcement of the building maintenance codes to ensure that there is
not further deterioration. Miklo stated that it comes to a point where it becomes difficult to save a building.
Ackerson asked if the owners live in the house. Miklo said the owners do not live there, and the building
has been divided up into apartments. Downing said the owners live next door.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
JULY 12, 2012
Page 8 of 10
Baldridge asked what kind of power the Commission has in this case. Miklo said if the Commission
makes a motion requesting that the building official investigate this, that requires the building official to go
out and examine the property to determine whether it is meeting building codes. Miklo said that if it is not
meeting building codes, the building official can cite the owner for failure to meet building codes.
Downing asked if this property has a valid rental permit. Miklo said he did not know.
Baldridge said he believes the Commission should take action. Peterson read from the guidelines, "The
Historic Preservation Commission may file a petition with the building official requesting investigation of
any applicable building or structure suspected of neglect or deterioration. The building official will
proceed with investigation and may take enforcement action necessary to correct or prevent further
violation. Failure to comply with the stated corrective action may result in penalties and /or legal action."
MOTION: Downing moved to petition the Building Department to review the building at 304 South
Summit Street in relation to the enforcement of applicable codes per section 7.2 of the Historic
Preservation Handbook. Ackerson seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 6-0
(Wanner abstaininn and Baker, McMahon, Swaim, and Thomann absent).
Miklo said that in the future, when someone needs to abstain from a vote, it is best to announce that fact
before the vote, stating the reasons for the abstention.
REPORT ON CERTIFICATES ISSUED BY CHAIR AND STAFF:
Peterson said there were the usual types of certificates of no material affect approved by the chair and
staff, and they are documented in the Commission packet. Commission members had no comments or
questions.
DISCUSS FISCAL YEAR 2013 CLG GRANTS.
Miklo stated that the Certified Local Government Program provides, on an annual basis, a competitive
grant program whereby communities throughout Iowa apply for grants. He said there is a match
requirement that generally can be fulfilled through staff time or cash or volunteer time. Miklo said that has
been difficult lately in terms of budgeting and staff time. He said, however, that if there is a project the
Commission feels is worthwhile, an application could be submitted.
Baldridge asked what the status is of the cabins in City Park. Miklo said he believes the Parks and
Recreation Commission was applying for funding, and the Commission did supply some support for that.
Trimble said she has spoken to Joyce Carroll, who has someone handling this. She said they were
applying and missed the deadline for the last round, so they are trying to raise money as well as trying to
get grant funding.
Michaud asked about the status of the brick house on Kirkwood Street. Miklo said the City has tried to
exercise demolition by neglect on that house. He said there was a certificate approved to replace the
foundation with a new, modern, concrete block foundation, which was completed. Miklo stated that part
of that approval was that the owner was to put a veneer of limestone back to replicate or mimic the
original foundation. He said the work was never done and the person who received approval left the
country.
Miklo said the house is in the process or has been foreclosed upon, so it has been difficult for the City to
get anyone to do anything because of the ownership issues. He said he would check with the Building
Department on this for the next meeting.
Trimble said that Friends of Historic Preservation is also concerned about this house.
The consensus of the Commission was to pursue a CLG grant for work on the City Park cabins. Trimble
said the other grant was an HRDP grant, so this is a different grant.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
JULY 12, 2012
Page 9 of 10
CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES FOR JUNE 14, 2012:
MOTION: Baldridge moved to approve the minutes of the Historic Preservation Commission's June 12,
2012 meeting, as written. Wagner seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 7 -0 (Baker,
McMahon, Swaim and Thomann absent).
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting was adjourned at 6:35 p.m.
Minutes submitted by Anne Schulte
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PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION APPROVED
JULY 19, 2012 — 7:00 PM — FORMAL
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Carolyn Stewart Dyer, Charlie Eastham, Anne Freerks, Phoebe
Martin, Paula Swygard, John Thomas, Tim Weitzel
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Robert Miklo, Andrew Bassman, Sarah Holecek
OTHERS PRESENT: Helene Hembreiker, Sarah Clark, Misty Rebik, Jeff Strottmann,
Ryan Downing, Bryson Dean, Christopher Siech, Susan Goodner,
Seth Miller
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
The Commission voted to recommend approval of REZ12- 00013, a rezoning of 2.0 acres
of land located along the south side of Highway 1 West, west of Shirken Drive, from CIA
to CC -2.
The Commission voted to approve a recommendation to change Title 14 of the City Code
as outlined by staff, defining payday lending uses and regulating them as provisional
uses in the Community Commercial (CC -2) zone.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA:
There was none.
REZONING ITEM
REZ12- 00011: Discussion of an application submitted by Southgate Development Services for a
rezoning from Interim Development Office Research Park (ID -ORP) zone to Low Density
Multifamily (RM12) zone for approximately 27.68 acres of property located at Camp Cardinal
Boulevard, south of Preston Lane. (Applicant has requested deferral to August 2.)
Eastham moved to defer the item to the meeting of August 2nd
Weitzel seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7 -0.
Planning and Zoning Commission
July 19, 2012 - Formal
Page 2 of 8
REZONING ITEM
REZ12- 00012: Discussion of an application submitted by Southgate Development Services for
a rezoning from Interim Development Multifamily (ID -RM) zone to Low Density Multifamily
(RM12) zone for approximately 13.90 -acres of property located at S. Gilbert Street and
McCollister Boulevard. (Applicant has requested deferral to August 2.)
Eastham moved to defer the item to the meeting of August 2 "d
Dyer seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7 -0.
REZONING ITEM
REZ12- 00013: Discussion of an application submitted by the City of Iowa City for a rezoning
from Intensive Commercial (CI -1) zone to Community Commercial (CC -2) zone for
approximately 3.5 acres of property located south of Highway 1, west of Shirken Drive. (521 and
531 Highway 1 West & 1119 Shirken Drive)
Freerks noted that in a memo the Commission received this evening, 1119 Shirken Drive is to
be removed from this item.
Bassman explained that the City is initiating this rezoning to bring the restaurants in the area
into conformance with the Zoning Code and to bring the zoning into conformance with the
Comprehensive Plan. He said when the new Code was adopted in 2005 restaurants were
removed as an allowed use from the Intensive Commercial (CI -1) zone, which made the
Godfathers Pizza Restaurant at 531 Highway 1 West a non - conforming use. He said when the
Code was being re- written, the City wanted to return the CI -1 zoning to its original intent, which
is providing locations for land- consumptive and light industrial uses. He showed the
Commission examples of what you might find in a CI -1 zone. He said that the proposed
Community Commercial (CC -2) zoning is more retail oriented, and restaurants are a permitted
use in this zone. He said that the quick vehicle servicing use at 521 Highway 1 West is allowed
provisionally in the CI -1 and CC -2 zones.
Bassman said that the South Central District Plan future land use map shows the area south of
Highway 1 from Riverside Drive to the west edge of the lot at 809 Highway 1 as retail or
community commercial uses. He said the South District Plan states that land available in the
western reaches of this sub -area just beyond Highway 218, given the fairly direct access to
Highway 1 and Highway 218, offers opportunities for large lot development and is suitable for
intensive commercial uses with extensive outdoor storage needs. He said that as the retail area
in the eastern part of this sub -area is upgraded, encouraging intensive commercial businesses
located on or east of West Park Plaza to relocate to CI -1 zones to the south or west could result
in a more compatible mix of traffic and commercial shops, offices, restaurants and restaurants
and residential uses. He explained that staff decided that the property at 1119 Shirken Drive
should not be part of the application as the southwest portion of the building includes
warehouse space, which is not allowed in the CC -2 zone. He said that the owner has concerns
about being able to rent the building for anything other than warehouse use.
Freerks opened public hearing.
Planning and Zoning Commission
July 19, 2012 - Formal
Page 3 of 8
Freerks closed public hearing.
Freerks asked for a motion.
Eastham moved to approve REZ12- 00013, a rezoning of 2.0 acres of land located along
the south side of Highway 1 West, west of Shirken Drive, from CIA to CC -2.
Weitzel seconded.
Freerks invited discussion.
Freerks said to approve this would bring the zoning into conformance and be consistent with the
Comprehensive Plan.
Eastham asked if with approval of this application, adequate CI -1 zoning would remain in the
city.
Miklo said that after the South Central District Plan was created, area along Rohret Road was
zoned to CI -1, and there are still vacant lots there.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7 -0.
CODE AMENDMENT ITEM
Discussion of an amendment to Title 14, Zoning Code, to define payday lending uses and
regulate them as provisional uses in the Community Commercial (CC -2) zone.
Bassman said that the difficulties of low- income consumers with poor credit history in accessing
certain services from federally insured banks has helped create an alternative financial services
industry that includes payday lenders. He explained that payday loans can trap consumers in
repeat borrowing cycles due to the high cost of borrowing, short repayment term and
consequences of failing to make good on the check used to secure the loan. He said that
although there are some regulations placed on these lenders, the annual percentage rate for a
two week, $250.00 loan is 358 percent. He said a study of the effect of payday lenders on the
surrounding areas published in the Journal of Criminology and Public Policy in 2011 found that
payday lenders in the Seattle area tend to be concentrated in communities where crime rates
are higher. He said the study also found a statistically significant correlation between the
presence of payday lenders and increases in crime.
Bassman said that Ames, Clive and West Des Moines have passed zoning ordinances
restricting where payday lending establishments can locate. He explained that the ordinance in
Iowa City would be more of a preventative measure. He said the other Iowa ordinances require
separation between payday lenders and other uses or zones. He said that staff has drafted
amendments that would regulate the location of payday lending establishments in Iowa City. He
said staff recommends that Iowa City amend the Code to include a definition for payday lenders,
or delayed deposit services, as the State Code describes such uses. He said staff recommends
restricting these uses to provisional uses in the Community Commercial (CC -2) zone with
additional separation requirements of one - thousand feet between delayed deposit uses and
other uses and other areas that may be negatively impacted. He said these latter uses include
any property containing existing daycare, educational facilities, parks and open spaces,
Planning and Zoning Commission
July 19, 2012 - Formal
Page 4 of 8
religious, private assembly or residential uses. He showed the Commission a map indicating the
existing five licensed payday lenders in Iowa City, where five licensed payday lenders used to
be located, and the four areas where payday lenders would have to be located under the
amended Code. He said with the amendment, existing payday lenders would become
nonconforming uses. He said staff recommends that these uses be limited to those licensed by
the State of Iowa.
Freerks asked what would happen to those businesses once they become nonconforming.
Miklo replied that a nonconforming use can continue as is, but they would not be able to expand
in terms of square footage, and if they go out of business another similar use could not establish
there if it was within one - thousand feet of the above - mentioned uses.
Eastham asked how staff saw the Comprehensive Plan encompassing these proposed
regulations.
Miklo said the Plan doesn't directly address this issue, but you could say it indirectly does so by
encouraging viable neighborhoods, and in other communities where this has been adopted, it's
seen as supporting neighborhood health.
Eastham asked if the Plan could be amended to clearly encompass these regulations.
Miklo said it could be, but he doesn't necessarily see a need to do that.
Holecek said that a number of stabilization actions have been taken and with every one, they
haven't amended the Plan. She said that the Comprehensive Plan is supportive of
neighborhood health, and she doesn't see a need to amend it.
Dyer asked what the rationale was for limiting their proximity to churches.
Miklo said it is standard rationale used throughout the Code for sensitive uses to be restricted in
relationship to churches, parks, schools and open space.
Swygard asked if there are any statistics for Iowa City on crime in relation to the areas where
payday lenders already exist.
Miklo said there are crime statistics available, but they did not do a correlation.
Freerks opened public hearing.
Helene Hembreiker of 3002 Parkview Avenue said she is a member of the Iowa Citizens for
Community Improvement (CCI). She said that payday lenders prey on vulnerable members of
our community, and this causes people who use these services to sink deeper into debt. She
said it is up to individual cities to regulate these businesses. She said the new ordinance passed
by Ames serves as a model for Iowa City and other cities in Iowa. She thanked staff for drawing
up this important ordinance and requested that it be passed.
Sarah Clarke of 509 Brown Street said she is speaking in support of this amendment. She said
neighborhood stabilization is a very important issue for her. She said there are some very
vulnerable neighborhoods close to where there are or have been payday lenders. She said the
proliferation of these businesses on entrance streets to the city may make people question the
economic stability of the area and hesitate to build or open businesses there.
Planning and Zoning Commission
July 19, 2012 - Formal
Page 5 of 8
Misty Rebik of 1033 S. 7th Ave. said she is also a member of Iowa Citizens for Community
Improvement. She said she supports this ordinance because predatory payday lending causes
neighborhood blight, increased crime, traps people in a cycle of poverty and drains communities
of hard - earned wealth. She says she has first -hand experience with immigrant communities that
have to resort to these types of lenders because they earn a low hourly wage and can't get a
loan anywhere else when they need money.
Jeff Strottmann of 426 S. Dodge St., Apt. A said he is also a CCI member. He says he thinks
payday lenders are basically evil, and restricting them is the best we can do at this level. He
said the payday lenders are out of state corporations so none of the revenue goes to public
government. He said it detracts from what could be going to local banks and credit unions. He
said it would be a necessary first step in helping the southeast side of the city by limiting these
lenders and reduce them as time goes on.
Ryan Downing of 3019 Pinecrest Road and a member of CCI said he supports everything the
other speakers have said in support of the recommendation from City staff. He said the work
they have put into this is appreciated. He said that a Council member had asked if they
shouldn't let the market take care of this. Downing said that research has been done to show
that in Iowa and elsewhere the interest rates don't change much from one payday lender to
another, and the market is not taking care of the interest rate problem. He said this ordinance
won't change the interest rate, but it will change the landscape to provide room and space for
organizations like CCI and other community organizations to work with the more legitimate
financial institutions in finding ways to provide more ethical forms of low- interest loans. He said
he encourages the Commission to view this as a way of regulating the market to allow room for
the development of more choices in this market.
Bryson Dean of 310 Scott Court #2 said she is a CCI member. She said this is a matter of
wanting to help people in the community as well as image. She said too many of these
businesses make it look like blight. She urged the Commission to recommend approval of this
ordinance.
Christopher Seich of Money and More on Riverside Drive said he had some of the same
concerns the speakers have when he accepted a position at this business. He said in the
eighteen months he has been there he has seen more people on a short-term basis helped out
of a crisis than the cycle folks who have a hard time managing their money. He said payday
lenders are on the decline and have been for last couple years. He said all the ones in Iowa City
are regulated. He said the really deplorable ones are online. He said Money and More employs
fifteen local people and is a locally owned business. He said he would like to see a lesser
standard than the recommended one - thousand between delayed deposit uses and other uses.
He said other cities have started with 250 feet. He said he has seen many cases of emergency
situations where people didn't have enough on their credit card to pay for a car repair or couldn't
cash a check because they were from out of town, and they were grateful to have this service to
help them. He said if they borrowed $100.00, they would then pay back $116.67 at the end of
two weeks, which he didn't think was bad. He said it is a necessary thing for some people with
an emergency. He said it is also a necessary thing for some people who can't manage their
money. He said he has seen tremendous help given through his business.
Eastham asked Seich to repeat the terms of a loan.
Seich replied that if you borrowed $100 today, July 19th, anytime between now and August 2nd,
which is two weeks from today, you have the opportunity to pay it back at $116.67, with $16.67
as the interest. He said if you don't come in, the next day they send it to the bank. He said if you
Planning and Zoning Commission
July 19, 2012 - Formal
Page 6 of 8
borrow $200 it will cost $227.78.
Susan Goodner of 4649 Running Deer Court said that just because a business is locally owned
and employs fifteen people doesn't mean it's a good business. She said the one thousand foot
restrictions make more sense than the 250 foot limit because the ordinances in the other Iowa
cities have only been in place a short time. She said she would like to see the numbers to
support Seich's sense that it's short-term crisis people rather than people who get caught in the
spiral who are the majority of his clients. She said she thinks the way Seich spoke of people
who can't manage their money is pretty derogatory. She said if they are able to establish micro -
lending programs through the credit unions these people can have access to credit counselors.
She said just because internet lenders are worse doesn't mean that the local predatory payday
lenders are better.
Seth Miller, who works at Money and More, said they provide a service that is needed for the
community. He said oftentimes this money is needed for medical procedures if the borrowers
are uninsured. He said they are State regulated and licensed and that Iowa has the strictest
regulations in the nation on payday lending. He said they are not opposed to this amendment
but would encourage a 250 feet limit rather than the one - thousand feet, which he thinks is a bit
excessive.
Freerks closed public hearing.
Weitzel moved to approve a recommendation to change the City Code as outlined by
staff.
Eastham seconded.
Freerks invited discussion.
Weitzel said that they aren't going to be able to eliminate or prohibit payday lenders. He said
based on the staffs memo, no uses are being prohibited and he thinks a restriction of one -
thousand feet is reasonable.
Eastham said in regard to the notion that they should not engage in land use regulation in this
area because the market will take some sort of appropriately corrective action, it has occurred to
him that land use regulation of any kind is market corrective, so that argument is not appealing
to him. He said he is persuaded that the adverse effect on surrounding neighborhoods is
potentially real and significant enough to warrant some separation and limited number of these
types of businesses. He said since there is a limit on the distance between liquor stores, he has
no problems with the distance requirement in this proposed amendment or with the separation
of residential and other uses.
Swygard said she's looking at this as a land use issue and what is best for Iowa City in relation
to the goal of neighborhood stabilization. She said she is concerned about the entrance to the
city and how it looks when people enter from the south side. She said she supports this
proposed amendment.
Thomas said he supports all the comments from the Commission. He said that this is a
preventative measure and that it's not affecting any existing business. He said the one - thousand
feet limit seems reasonable to him, especially in an automobile environment where these
businesses are perceived as you drive by. He said there may even be consideration on the
commercial stabilization that they not be concentrated.
Planning and Zoning Commission
July 19, 2012 - Formal
Page 7 of 8
Martin asked if in terms of the one - thousand foot limit those in existence would be non-
conforming.
Miklo said that most of them would be.
Dyer said she's not convinced that payday lenders cause crime. She said she doesn't support
the expansion of payday lenders but if they limit where they can be, the ones that exist have the
opportunity to maximize the business that exists, and perhaps someone with different interest
rates could offer another orientation. She said it seems that the cause is poverty and the lack of
places for people to borrow money. She said she will probably support this, but it's not going to
necessarily solve any problems.
Freerks said she will support the proposed amendment, and she thinks one - thousand feet is
appropriate here. She said behavior and land use sometimes go hand in hand. She said the
existing businesses will be non - conforming and can't expand, and there is room for four more of
these businesses, and she thinks that is plenty for a community this size.
Eastham said he wonders if the effect on neighborhoods has to do with how much money
borrowers have to pay for the service, and that money reduces how much is available to them
for other kinds of things.
Martin said she agrees in that the issue that's being brought up is not necessarily the location of
payday lenders but the issue of disclosure and blight that was raised by CCI.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7 -0.
CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: June 4th, 7th, 18th, and 21st, 2012:
Weitzel moved to approve the minutes with minor corrections.
Eastham seconded.
The motion carried 7 -0.
ADJOURNMENT:
Weitzel moved to adjourn.
Eastham seconded.
The meeting was adjourned on a 7 -0 vote.
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Approved Minutes
May 2012
MINUTES
SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION
MAY 17, 2012
ROOM 209, IOWA CITY /JOHNSON COUNTY SENIOR CENTER
Members Present: Jay Honohan, Rose Hanson, Chuck Felling, Mark Holbrook,
Sarah Maiers, Michael Lensing
Members Absent: Daniel Benton
Staff Present: Linda Kopping, Kristin Kromray
Others Present: None.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
None.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 4:00 PM. Honohan chaired the meeting.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM APRIL 26, 2012 MEETING:
Motion: To accept the minutes from the April 26, 2012 meeting. Motion
carried on a vote of 5/0. Benton /Holbrook.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
COMMISSION ASSIGNMENTS:
Honohan will attend the June 5th City Council meeting. Lensing will attend the
June 7th Johnson County Board of Supervisors meeting.
STEERING COUNCIL REPORT:
Felling reported that the Membership Committee is planning on making a
demonstration video of the exercise equipment. The Outreach Committee has a
number of community events this summer that they will be involved with including
booths at the Pride Festival and Johnson County Fair. The monthly op -ed Press
Citizen article by a Senior Center member will be starting soon, the first article
will be written by Chuck Felling.
08-21�
3b(6)
Approved Minutes
May 2012
STATUS OF CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL OF INCREASED PARTICIPANT
AND PARKING FEE STRUCTURE:
Honohan reported that he and Kopping will be going to City Council on June 5th
regarding the membership and parking fee increase recommendation.
DISCUSSION OF SERVING ALCOHOL AT SENIOR CENTER EVENTS:
Honohan reported that the Parks and Recreation Commission and the Library
Board are going to approach the City Council about serving alcohol at fundraising
events. Commission discussed under what circumstances alcohol would be
allowed. There was agreement that the details of how and when alcohol would
be served needed to be very specific.
Motion: To support the general concept of serving alcohol at fundraising
events at the Senior Center. Holbrook/Lensing. 5/0.
OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW:
Kopping reported that the manager of the nutrition program has resigned.
Kopping will be on vacation during the next scheduled Commission meeting. The
next commission meeting will be moved up a week to June 14tH
Emily Light continues to work with the Honoring Your Wishes community wide
Advanced Care Planning initiative. The Senior Center was recently a counselor
training site for this program.
Michelle Buhman is working on fall programming.
Buhman and Light are planning a community wide health screening day that will
take place in June.
Kopping continues to work on the Senior Center Accreditation process.
Kopping reported that the front step repair began. There have been a few
unexpected findings, but the project is progressing in a timely fashion.
Approved Minutes
May 2012
COMMISSION DISCUSSION:
Honohan reported he attended the Board of Supervisors meeting. He informed
them that the Commission has recommended a fee increase and the City Council
will be considering the increase on June 5 th
Holbrook reported that he attended a City Council meeting.
ADJOURNMENT:
Motion: To Adjourn. Motion carried on a vote of 5/0. Maiers /Holbrook.
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Approved Minutes
May 2012