HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013-02-19 Correspondence701�a
State of the City Address
Mayor Matt Hayek
February 19, 2013
Good evening. It is my pleasure, along with my colleagues on the City Council, to present the
2013 State of the City Address. Before I begin, I'd like to recognize my fellow council members
and thank them for their work — Mayor Pro Tern Susan Mims and councilors Connie Champion,
Terry Dickens, Rick Dobyns, Michelle Payne, and Jim Throgmorton. I thank them for their time,
their dedication, and their leadership on behalf of Iowa City. I would also like to recognize and
thank the hundreds of city employees who work hard to deliver excellent services to residents
and businesses every hour of every day of the week.
With a growing population and an economy in full recovery, we should be encouraged by the
opportunities before us. 2012 was a year of slow but steady growth. The good news is that
Iowa City fared better than most communities. At the beginning of 2012, our unemployment
rate was 4.3 %. Since then, the city has seen steady growth and the unemployment rate is now
3.5 %. When compared to a state unemployment rate of 4.9% and a national unemployment
rate of 7.9 %, we have much to appreciate.
As a local government, our health relies on careful planning and good financial management.
While it is true that many university communities across the nation tend to do well, it is not the
case that all perform as well as we have.
Over the last two years, the City tightened its belt, finding new and more efficient ways of doing
business and encouraging growth. During this time, the City lowered property taxes by 5.8 %,
reduced approximately 22 staff positions mostly through attrition, leveraged millions of dollars
in federal and state grants, and maintained our Moody's AAA bond rating — which only four
communities in Iowa and fewer than 200 nationwide enjoy. And despite these actions, city
services remain of the highest quality.
Decisions at the state level continue to impact operations locally. Commercial property tax
reform, should it pass in Des Moines, could have a major impact on city budgets. The Supreme
Court's ruling on housing cooperatives could result in the loss of hundreds of thousands of
property tax dollars to Iowa City each year. And pension requirements, coupled with an aging
workforce and ever - escalating health insurance costs, put tremendous pressure on local
budgets, forcing us to think about how we sustain viable retirement options for employees. All
of these items reduce our fiscal agility and strain our budget.
At the federal level, we continue to see reductions in funding in multiple areas. The reality is
that with slow growth and relatively flat property tax values, the City will continue to rely on
existing staff and resources to carry out its functions. This will require more efficient and
practical ways to deliver government services in a manner consistent with protecting the
taxpayer.
I would now like to highlight a number of Iowa City's ongoing activities.
Public safety continues to be a top concern for both the council and the community. Not only
do fire and police services provide security for us all, they are investments in our future by
encouraging residential and commercial investment. In 2011, we opened the fourth fire
station. The total project construction cost was $3.2 million and was partially funded by a $2.2
million I -JOBs grant. Despite budget constraints, we added nine new firefighters to ensure full
staffing for the station.
Our Fire Department is to be commended on achieving an upgraded status from the Insurance
Service Organization. The upgrade from level ISO 3 to ISO 2 highlights the strength of our
overall fire and emergency system. Only three communities in Iowa have achieved this level.
Our Police Department recently added two new officers to the force. These officers, funded
through a federal government COPS grant program, received assignments consistent with our
strategic goals. One officer is assigned to the downtown district and partially funded by the
Downtown District itself. The second officer is stationed at the new police substation in
Pepperwood Plaza and will focus on neighborhood stabilization issues throughout the
community. We welcome these positions and look forward to their impact in the community.
The Police Department continues to embark on a number of partnerships within the
community. Working with the school district, the department promotes safety and security
initiatives such as competency training for officers and teachers. Working with the Partnership
for Alcohol Safety, the department (along with local officials, university leadership, and
business stakeholders) is making Iowa City a safer place for young people.
The last year in Iowa City saw a renewed emphasis on economic development and
neighborhood stabilization. The City Council embraces the strategic priorities of increasing our
tax base and creating new high - quality jobs. These policies are the cornerstone of our economic
development approach, which is designed to promote well- thought -out, sustainable growth in
the community.
The greatest potential economic growth will remain focused on Downtown, the adjacent
Riverfront Crossings District, and the University of Iowa campus. Our studies show that
significant benefits could emerge from these areas in terms of creating an exciting urban
environment that appeals to a broad group of citizens. Two separate entities now encourage
new business startups and a more entrepreneurial culture downtown. The Iowa City Area
Development Group (ICAD) Co -Lab and the Busy Co- working spaces are new resources for
individuals looking to develop business plans within a collaborative, real world environment.
2
Essential to this growth downtown is a live -work environment that we believe has real promise.
Attracting residential renters and owners will fosteran environment that harnesses the
excitement of an academic community and is sensitive to professionals and families. With
recent policy changes such as the 21 ordinance and bar - related zoning restrictions, we believe
progress is being made to make downtown exciting and attractive to all our citizens.
We are excited about partnering with the Iowa City Downtown District to pursue a mutual
vision for the area. The District, supported by its business owners, had a successful first year
and we welcomed Nancy Bird as the District's new director. We are confident that, under
Nancy's leadership, the District stakeholders will see their investment pay dividends and create
more demand for services.
Beyond Downtown, we continue to focus our efforts on infill areas where public infrastructure
is already present and the necessary investment in public improvements is minimal. These
areas include Towncrest on the east side, Riverfront Crossings south of Downtown, and the
Highway 1 /Highway 6 commercial corridor. The College and Gilbert site, presently the subject
of considerable discussion, will transform a deteriorating building and parking lot into a
valuable downtown asset with office, residential and other uses, upgrades to surrounding
infrastructure, and similar public benefits. The level of interest in this redevelopment
opportunity is an indication that our downtown is attractive and growing. At the same time, we
see strong indications of growth all over town, including the Moss Ridge project near Interstate
80, various developments near Interstate 380, and residential building throughout.
Where appropriate, Iowa City will continue its responsible approach to economic development
through the use of Tax Increment Financing and other tools. Iowa City has always been
conservative in its use of TIF incentives. In fact, the City has utilized only about 12% of its total
potential increment and closes out each project once the debt from that project is retired. The
Plaza Towers project is a good example of how smart TIF planning can transform an empty lot
generating no tax dollars into a multi -use building that diversifies downtown, attracts people
and businesses, and pays nearly $1 million a year in property taxes to the City, County, and
School District. We will continue to explore opportunities that meet community goals and
enhance demand for visiting, living and working downtown.
The Amtrak passenger rail project from Chicago to Iowa City and further west remains a top
priority. This federal initiative will connect regions, enhance sustainability, and create jobs.
And we believe it will promote significant local development. A comparable city in Illinois
recently reported more than $200m in private sector investment around its passenger rail
station, and we believe a station in the heart of Riverfront Crossings would have a similar
impact. We continue to make the case to the Iowa: Legislature that state support for passenger
rail makes strong economic sense and will give Iowa a competitive advantage as passenger rail
is enhanced throughout the Midwest.
The other strategic goal I'd like to mention is neighborhood stabilization. We have directed
staff to coordinate a targeted approach to protect and reinvest in one of our best assets: our
3
neighborhoods. The UniverCity Neighborhood Partnership Program, a successful joint venture
between the University and the City, has restored 30 homes, 28 of which have already been
sold to owner occupiers, and will be continued. In addition, the Housing Rehabilitation
program has worked with homeowners to rehabilitate 38 homes in neighborhoods throughout
Iowa City.
In April 2012, the City Council passed amendments to the zoning code to set a maximum
number of unrelated persons in a unit to three, easing the strain on our neighborhoods by
reducing traffic and nuisance issues. The Council also approved a graduated density formula for
the development of one, two and three bedroom apartments in select zoning classifications
and increased the parking requirement for three bedroom units in the newly defined University
Impact Area. Expanded historic preservation zones and other recent measures will benefit
fragile areas for decades to come. Iowa City's commitment to its neighborhoods is strong and
more initiatives can be expected over time.
It is also worth thinking about how we move around as a community. To that end, our
Transportation Services department completed a number of worthy projects in 2012.
We welcomed the addition of the Zipcar program to our area. Zipcar allows citizens to rent
vehicles on an hourly basis from designated parking locations throughout the City and
University. We are also excited for a partnership with the ICDD to provide "first- hour - free"
parking. Still in the development stage, this change could result in four municipal parking
facilities offering the first hour free for parkers. This program will also see the implementation
of technological enhancements to the parking system that will improve convenience for citizens
and visitors.
A word about flood recovery. We continue to deal with the aftermath of the 2008 floods, which
caused significant damage to the City and University of Iowa. The City budget includes a
number of significant flood mitigation projects designed to better safeguard our community in
the future. Currently planned are sixteen major flood mitigation projects totaling $158M. Thus
far, we have assembled over $100M in committed State and Federal grants as well as $32M in
local option sales tax toward the cost of these projects.
We recently approved plans and specs for the relocation of the North Wastewater Treatment
Plant to a more secure site out of the flood plain and adjacent to the existing South Wastewater
Treatment Plant. At an estimated expense of $55 million, this will be the most expensive Public
Works project in the history of Iowa City. In addition to protecting our ability to treat
wastewater, it also creates the opportunity for us to construct a beautiful riverfront park in the
Riverfront Crossings area on the old plant site that can be inundated during flood events
without putting the community at risk.
Other flood mitigation projects include the Gateway Initiative, which is the elevation of
Dubuque Street and the Park Road Bridge. This $32 million project will protect the main
entrance to Iowa City, the University and Downtown employment centers. The elevated street
4
is being designed to accommodate all modes of transportation including pedestrian, bicycle,
and public transit.
We continue to evaluate several potential levee and other projects intended to protect areas
impacted by the 2008 flood. We are ready to proceed this year with the West Side Levee and
the Rocky Shore Drive Floodgate and Lift Station, followed by the Animal Shelter. We are
wrapping up the flood buyout program, and by the end of 2012 we purchased and demolished
some 95 flood -prone residences. We are replacing them with some 130 new homes
constructed through the State's Single - Family New Homes program and, in so doing, adding to
the tax base.
This year will also mark the tenth anniversary of our new Water Plant. This plant transformed
Iowa City's drinking water system from marginal to one of the best in Iowa. The plant served us
well during last year's drought thanks to ample capacity to meet the record water demands we
experienced. Our robust water system was instrumental in the recent upgrade of Iowa City's
Insurance Service Organization's public protection classification.
While the floods were certainly devastating for those affected, the opportunity to rebuild parts
of Iowa City and the University is unprecedented. We hope to make the most of this disaster,
both for flood protection and for community and economic development.
Iowa City's vibrant culture and high quality of life are well recognized. From our designation as
the only UNESCO City of Literature in the western hemisphere, to our community calendar with
its constant artistic, athletic and academic programming, to the numerous "best of" lists we
make on a state and national level, Iowa City should be proud of its accomplishments. We are
recognized as a great place to have a career or start a small business. We are known for our
high rate of volunteerism. And we are a popular destination for people of all ages, from
students to retirees.
One notable accomplishment this year supports our commitment to quality of life. The Blue
Zones designation, announced just last month, designates 10 communities across Iowa to
receive special resources and assistance, enhance community health and reduce healthcare
costs. This collaborative effort between various government, non - profit, and private sector
organizations, highlights our community's interest in quality of life issues.
Speaking of the health and quality of life of Iowa City citizens, the Park and Recreation
Department will add two new locations for special events in 2013. The Ned Ashton House on
the Iowa River, built in 1947 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2001, was
purchased by the City as part of the flood buyouts. With its commanding views of the river, this
facility is sure to become a popular location for weddings, receptions and other events.
On the south end of town, the Terry Trueblood Recreation Area Lodge will open in a few
months in the City's new 200 -acre park of the same name. Situated adjacent to Sand Lake and
offering a capacity of 150 people, the lodge will be used for City functions and event rentals.
5
We believe the park will become a popular recreational venue for outdoor enthusiasts of all
types.
An exciting project between the City, University, and the State concerns the Burlington Street
Dam. This project has the potential to transform a hazardous low -head dam in a dense urban
setting into a safe recreation zone accessible to a wide range of recreational interests including
fishing and kayaking. Modifications to the dam are being studied and we are excited to review
a unique opportunity to expand recreational opportunities in the Riverfront Crossings area.
With respect to environmental matters, we continue to enhance recycling operations and boost
recycling among our citizens. The East Side Recycling Center opened on Earth Day 2012. Since
then, the Landfill and its partners, including the Friends of Historic Preservation Salvage Barn
and the Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity Restore, have expanded environmental offerings
through quarterly hazardous waste events, a rain barrel and compost bin sale, educational
presentations, webinars, panel discussions and educational films. Public use of this facility is
already exceeding expectations.
Our recycling capacity now includes carpet, books, beverage cartons, and plastic bags.
Significantly, the landfill undertook a pilot recycling program for multi - family housing to provide
convenient recycling opportunities for residents who do not enjoy curbside recycling. By all
measures, the program was a success; five complexes totaling 109 units participated with an
average recycling rate of 39% by volume. All five locations continued recycling at their own
expense following the project. The experience gained from this program was used to draft a
Best Management Practices Guide that is available on our web site. This guide will help owners
and tenants establish effective and affordable recycling services in multi - family residences.
Sustainability also includes stewardship of the land. To that end, we engaged the public in 30
events involving 850 volunteers and 22 organizations to enhance Iowa City's natural areas. The
drought created an opportunity for a thorough cleaning of creek corridors and the Iowa River.
In a single event on the Iowa River, over 14.5 tons of debris was removed.
Lastly, a word about cooperation and equity. As we have learned from examples like transit,
land use planning and emergency communications, intergovernmental partnerships can make a
lot of sense. When local governments collaborate on goals, investments, and costs, they
maximize tax dollars and often deliver better services for participating communities. The SEATS
para- transit program, which Iowa City is committed to maintaining, is a good example of a
regional service that maximizes the tax dollar and provides exceptional service.
However, we must also recognize that how services are funded matters to the taxpayer. The
essence of this is equity — making sure that the stakeholders who use a service are paying their
fair share. This requires that taxes and fees be assessed fairly to citizens. When we partner
with other local governments on a given service, our philosophy is to pursue funding equity
between the participating organizations. There will always be room for disagreement, but our
6
expectation is that the process will be marked by civility and dialogue. This is what the public
expects and deserves.
From our neighborhoods to our businesses to our schools to our cultural venues, Iowa City is a
special community. We continue to face challenges to our budget and our resources. But
thanks to deliberate planning and conservative forecasting, we have weathered the economic
storm and enjoy a position of strength and optimism. We are blessed to have a safe, growing
and vibrant community. On behalf of the City Council and City staff, I thank the community for
its involvement in these important issues.
Thank you.
7
Marian Karr
From:
Bob Long <blong @meta - comm.com>
Sent:
Saturday, February 02, 2013 9:11 PM
To:
Council
Cc:
Mark Nolte; Sam Hargadine; Tom Markus
Subject:
Re: Business
Hello Folks,
5f(1) _
I own a software company located on S. Gilbert St. in Iowa City. We have about 50 people employed, and just in the last
couple months we have hired five Iowa graduates in computer engineering.
I strongly request you do something about panhandling on the city street corners, because it's really getting out of hand. I
have had a HUGE problem with these people in my area of Gilbert street, including confrontations and employees afraid
to walk to their cars.
IMHO, Iowa City has become the dumping ground for the VA hospital and an experiment for those
running Shelter House (sorry if that's politically incorrect to say). I'm all for helping people that need it,
and especially families ... but the people I see panhandling on street corners look to me to be well fed
(if not not fat), have money for cigarettes and animals, and even cell phones.
My company is trying to attract talent locally and get people to stay in the community after graduation,
but I'm also seeking to attract Silicon Valley people expecting 300K+ for a salary. They come here
and see these guys parading around my parking lot and then holding up traffic. It's really bad
for recruiting.
The ICPD has been fantastic in helping secure our area, but it should not have to be this way. I've lived in Iowa City since
going to school here, and have built an internationally recognized company that has shed a great light on the city. Having
said that, I remember when I could walk anywhere in IC at anytime. Those times have passed for now, but I insist they
must come back, and you folks have got to help in a dynamic and thoughtful way.
Thanks,
Bob
Robert Long, President & CEO
MetaCommunications, Inc.
1210 S. Gilbert St., Iowa City, IA 52240
IN. T: (319) 337 -8599 ext 180 1 C: (319) 621 -2201 1 blong777
www.metacommunications.com
mini
Marian Karr
From: tundi brady <tundibrady @yahoo.com>
Sent: Saturday, February 02, 2013 2:44 PM
To: Council
Subject: HOPE FOR A HELMET
Dear Council Members,
5f(2)
As many of you remember, early in 2012, three Iowa City West High School students worked to get a bill
introduced in the Iowa Senate that would require helmets to be worn by children under the age of 18 when
riding a motorized bicycle or moped. The bill reached the Senate Transportation Subcommittee, but did not go
further, partially because our Iowa legislators felt they did not hear enough statewide support for a helmet law
for children.
Senator Tod Bowman, chairman of the Senate Transportation Subcommittee, said that West High students "had
a mission, they came up short, they're going to get another opportunity to convince legislators and see if
anything has changed."
That opportunity is now.
A new bill co- sponsored by six senators that would require helmets for riders under the age of 18 is going to be
discussed in a Transportation Subcommittee Hearing on Thursday, February 7.
The only way our legislators will know there is support for such protection for our children is if we tell them
there is. If you support this, please let them know. We are hoping they hear from as many groups and
individuals in support of the bill as possible before February 7th.
Following is the list of Transportation Committee Members.
Transportation Committee Members
Chair Tom Rielly tom.riellyna,legis.iowa.gov
Vice Chair Tod Bowman tod.bowmanglegis.iowa.gov
Ranking Member Tim Kapucian tim.kapucian ,legisdowa.gov
Daryl Beall daryl.beallalegis.iowa.gov
Jeff Danielson jef£danielsonglegis.iowa.gov
Dick Dearden dick.dearden(2legis.iowa.g_o_v
Robert Dvorsky robert.dvorsky(2legis.iowa.gov
Joni Ernst joni.ernstglegis.iowa.gov
James Hahn james.hahnglegis.iowa.gov
Tom Hancock tom.hancockglegis.iowa.gov
Hubert Houser hubert.houser@legis.iowa.gov
Matt McCoy matt.mccov(a legis.iowa.gov
Brad Zaun brad.zaunglegis.iowa.gov
Thank you for your service to our community.
Sincerely,
Tundi Brady
Hoping for a Helmet
Marian Karr
From: Blomgren, Richard <blomgrenrichardw @sau.edu>
Sent: Tuesday, February 05, 2013 1:19 PM
To: Council
Subject: mandatory helmet law
Dear Iowa Legislator,
I am writing to ask you to support a mandatory helmet law for children under the age of 18 riding a moped or
scooter. Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among teenagers in Iowa with nearly half of all
teen fatalities between the ages of 14 and 17 linked to vehicle accidents.
Please help Iowa parents protect our children by making helmets mandatory for children under the age of 18.
Sincerely,
Richard Blomgren
Rock Island, Illinois
Marian Karr
From: Holly Hart <hhart2 @mac.com>
Sent: Wednesday, February 06, 2013 3:03 PM
To: Council
Subject: Follow -Up: Locating Temporary Overnight Shelter
Members of the Iowa City City Council:
02 -19 -13
543)
At last night's council meeting, I spoke during the public comment period, first to thank the council for taking an interest
in assessing the number and needs of the city's homeless population, and second, for considering the need for some
type of overnight shelter in colder months.
I would like to follow up with a request /suggestions. I hope there is action that can be taken now; even though this
winter has been mild and and likely to be warming up shortly, conditions are still not adequate for those without
shelter. I would like to propose use of a designated place (public, private, faith - based) for very basic overnight shelter -
essentially, floor space and access to restroom facilities inside a heated building. The previous overflow program
provided cots, and I'm told no one knows where those are anymore. Cots would be nice, but I don't think they are
essential, as homeless individuals generally have some sort of bedding. The place would be staffed by volunteers,
(ideally two per night). No one would be turned away, but if someone is disruptive, they would be moved to a
partitioned area or different room; if the disruption is serious, the police would be called.
Several possible solutions have been suggested: the open area of the County Administration Building first floor; the Rec
Center; Newman Center lower floor; Old Brick. I am willing to help staff, and believe I can gather enough volunteers to
cover the next few weeks - a month at the most, probably less would be needed. I plan to contact the faith /private
organizations involved with the Newman Center and Old Brick, and want to ask how one might inquire about the public
buildings (Rec Center, County Admin Bldg)? Is the city council able to approve use of the Rec Center; or do council
members have ideas for other locations or solutions?
Sincerely,
Holly Hart
331 -9616
January 27, 2013
Members of the Iowa City City Council:
I am writing to ask the city council to grant permission for the use of a city -owned property, which, to my knowledge,
currently stands unused. I'm told the former St. Patrick's Church parish hall, at 423 South Linn Street, used to house
"overflow" from Shelter House - that is, individuals in need of overnight shelter when Shelter House was already at
capacity; who either did not qualify for Shelter House, or who had used up their allotted time there.
This was a volunteer- operated service that staffed the facility in colder months where individuals in need of overnight
shelter could spend the night. The program was initiated and managed by the Ecumenical Council, staffed mostly with
volunteers from the respective denominations.
With the opening of the new and expanded- capacity Shelter House, the "overflow" program was suspended as of this
year. While Shelter House has been able to serve at greater capacity (especially increased capacity for veterans), there
remains a need for some means of shelter for some who may not qualify for Shelter House services or who may have
used up their allotted time there. There are fewer individuals now who would be in need of such shelter, but there are a
handful who spend the night outdoors. last week, I spoke with a member of the city staff, who told me that the city
council might be willing to allow use of that facility for that purpose again if volunteers could be found to staff
overnights.
Some of the former volunteers may have done all they wished, but others may be willing to help out again, and I believe
I can round up more. My suggestion is that the old parish hall be available for overnight shelter the next couple of
months (through mid - March, perhaps), simply to provide a heated place to sleep and a restroom facility. Cots, meals,
other amenities, would not need to be part of this effort.
I would request the city council consider this request as soon as possible. Do you need further information? Is it
possible to address the council at a regular council meeting, either on the agenda or as part of the public comment
period?
Thank you for your consideration,
Holly Hart
(319)331-9616
Marian Karr
From:
Rod Sullivan <rodsullivan @mchsi.com>
Sent:
Thursday, February 07, 2013 9:53 PM
To:
Council
Subject:
SEATS
This correspondence will become a public record.
Dear Council:
My name is Rod Sullivan, and I live in Iowa City. I do NOT feel particularly good about that fact right now.
5f(4
Iowa City recently put out a press release on the SEATS program. In the first sentence of the 5th paragraph, you state:
"Johnson County has firmly indicated that they intend to phase out funding of para- transit services."
That sentence is patently false. Johnson County is committed to continuing to provide SEATS services in EVERY case
where SEATS is a County responsibility. The only "phasing out" is the decision Johnson County made to "phase out" a
$500,000+ annual subsidy to Iowa City.
Johnson County's commitment to pay for para- transit services has been demonstrated for 40+ years. Just follow the
money. Now it is the time for Iowa City to step up and meet its federally- mandated responsibilities.
I would like the public record to reflect the reality rather than this gross misrepresentation.
Sincerely,
Rod Sullivan
Marian Karr
From: Osland, Vicki L <vicki- osland @uiowa.edu>
Sent: Wednesday, February 06, 2013 1:07 PM
To: Marian Karr
Subject: RE: Save Our SEATS
Thanks for the information and your quick response!
Casey
From: Marian Karr [mailto:Marian- Karr @iowa - city.org]
Sent: Wednesday, February 06, 2013 1:04 PM
To: Osland, Vicki L; Council
Subject: RE: Save Our SEATS
Thank you for your request. The petition filed with the City Council last evening will become part of the permanent
record and archived with Council proceedings of February 5, 2013, and available on our website next week. Please let
me know if you have additional questions.
Marian K. Karr, MMC
City Clerk
From: Osland, Vicki L fmailto :vicki- osland(- auiowa.edu]
Sent: Wednesday, February 06, 2013 1:01 PM
To: Council
Subject: Save Our SEATS
Dear City Council Members:
Thank you for your time last night at the Iowa City Council Meeting. Because Johnson County, Coralville, North Liberty,
and Solon are going to be sharing the cost, it may be beneficial for them to see a copy of the petition that I presented to
you. You currently possess the only hard copy of this petition. I would be very grateful if you could retain this copy for
public use until the issue has been resolved.
Thanks again,
Casey Hayse
Pinkcasey62 @gmail.com
Notice: This UI Health Care e -mail (including attachments) is covered by the Electronic Communications
Privacy Act, 18 U.S.C. 2510 -2521, is confidential and may be legally privileged. If you are not the intended
recipient, you are hereby notified that any retention, dissemination, distribution, or copying of this
communication is strictly prohibited. Please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error,
then delete it. Thank you.
T - I IOWA
Ll
BLIND
Opportunities for Independence
Terry E. Branstad
Governor
Kim Reynolds
Lt. Governor
Richard Sorey
Director
524 Fourth Street
Des Moines, IA 50309 -2364
Tel: 515-281-1333
800 -362 -2587
Fax: 515 - 281 -1263
TTY: 515- 281 -1355
www.IDBonfine.org
The Honorable Matt Hayek
Mayor of Iowa City
14 Heather Drive
Iowa City, Iowa 52245
Dear Mayor Hayek,
I am writing to voice my support for the continued operation of the
SEATS paratransit program in Johnson County.
While I understand that the program is not being discontinued, on
behalf of the blind and visually impaired residents of Johnson County, I
would like to remind you of the importance of this service in enabling
our consumers to live independent lives. A number of our constituents
have expressed concern about the health of this program. Blind and
visually impaired residents of Johnson County rely on SEATS to get them
to their places of employment, the grocery store, social opportunities,
and to generally maintain their independence. Accessibility to medical
appointments is a major function fulfilled by paratransit transportation
services like SEATS and is often the only option to meet this need.
As you continue to work out a solution to this issue, please keep the
Iowans we both serve foremost in your thoughts.
Sincerely,
Richard Sorey
Director, Iowa Department for the Blind
( cf)
Marian Karr
From: Tom Markus
Sent: Tuesday, February 19, 2013 8:53 AM
To: Marian Karr; Matthew J. Hayek (mhayek @hhbmlaw.com)
Cc: Geoff Fruin; Adam Bentley; Chris O'Brien
Subject: FW: SEATS contract
Attachments: SEATS Letter 2- 18- 13.docx
From: CAROL SPAZIANI [mailto:spazianic @msn.com]
Sent: Tuesday, February 19, 2013 8:29 AM
To: Tom Markus
Subject: SEATS contract
Tom,
Copy of letter re: SEATS contract from League of Women Voters to City Council attached.
Carol Spaziani, Vice President
League of Women Voters of Johnson County
February 18, 2013
To: Johnson County Board of Supervisors, Coralville City Council, Iowa City City Council
From: Barbara Beaumont (President) (626 -6227, bgbeaumont @iuno.com) and Carol Spaziani
(Vice President), (338 -6140, spazianic @msn.com), League of Women Voters of Johnson County
Subject: SEATS Contract Renewal
The recent disagreement over how much each participating local government should pay for
SEATS service to its residents has pointed out several things:
1. Every five years when the contracts between the cities of Iowa City and Coralville with
Johnson County are up for renewal, there is a huge intergovernmental argument. This
creates high anxiety among the users of SEATS, a paratransit service of Johnson County
that provides rides throughout the county to elderly and disabled persons and to
anyone living in the unincorporated area. Most of these riders are dependent on this
service, the only public transit serving the whole county, for their health and quality of
life.
2. Johnson County has four separate public transit systems serving a population of around
133,000. The local government entities operating them have consistently:
- resented the government subsidies necessary to support public transit
- resisted all suggestions that perhaps a consolidated service might be more
efficient, expand services, or avoid the repeated flaps over "fair share" funding.
3. Policy- makers of the contracting entities appear to be more concerned about protecting
their own budget territories than truly seeking to provide the optimum transit service to meet
the needs of users.
4. The repeated squabbling (as opposed to good- faith, rational, scheduled negotiation) is
harmful to the goal of intergovernmental cooperation – perhaps even eventual consolidation.
Most residents would say, if asked, that they wish our local governments would cooperate
more.
The League of Women Voters of Johnson County (LWVJC) has been advocating for many years
for either an expansion of public transit to developing areas of the county or a consolidation of
existing systems. Local governments must stop talking about transit subsidies as a naughty
word and view public transit as a desirable public utility —an important one to be provided by a
growing community desirous of offering features sought by companies seeking to locate where
they can attract employees.
Apparently this view is more widely held than many realize. Witness the recommendations in
May, 2012, of the "Future Transit Needs Committee" of the Metropolitan Planning Organization
of Johnson County ( MPOJC). Members included representatives of Johnson County, Iowa City,
Coralville, University of Iowa, University Heights, North Liberty, Tiffin, and the public. Among
the eight goals articulated by this committee and later adopted by the MPOJC Urban Policy
Board were:
1. Work with communities in Johnson County on ways to increase the SEATS on- demand
system
2. (Long Range): Consider the need for transit consolidation or a county -wide authority.
The League of Women Voters has observed that each of the SEATS contracting entities' idea of
"fair share" has some merits. It would be a step backwards for intergovernmental cooperation
if each entity opted to provide its own paratransit system, proliferating our existing four
systems into six. We urge all of you to find common ground to see that our only county -wide
transit system continues as a single, merged service with one number to call for service. We
also urge you to continue to investigate ways to expand —not diminish —this important service.
Marian Karr
From:
Rick Fosse
Sent:
Wednesday, February 13, 2013 3:38 PM
To:
'dickbeyer @yahoo.com'
Cc:
Council
Subject:
Regarding Waste Removal
Dear Mr. Beyer:
5f(5
Thank you for your e-mail about garbage pickup at your residence at 3243 East Washington Street. You noted in your e-
mail that you have had conversations with our staff regarding refuse pick up and that our staff committed to have our
refuse workers radio in each week when they pick up the garbage at your address so that we know that it has not been
missed. Our staff has been doing that since the first of the year. However, since you live in a four unit condominium, we
have no way of knowing if the garbage they pick up belongs to you or your neighbors. In any event, we have verified
that we do pick up the garbage at your address each week. We have also contacted your neighbors and they do not
report any problem with their garbage service. My best advice is to make sure that your garbage is out by 7:00 am on
you garbage day, which is Friday.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thanks,
Rick Fosse
Public Works Director
City of Iowa City
410 E. Washington St.
Iowa City, Iowa 52245
319 - 356 -5141
From: Richard Beyer <dickbever @vahoo.com>
Date: February 8, 2013, 2:59:06 AM CST
To: <council @iowa- city.o >
Subject: Regarding Waste Removal
This correspondence will become a public record.
Dear Sir or Madam,
[You may wish to forward this to the supervisor / manager of waste removal]
For about three months now I have sought to have the trash picked up from 3243 E. Washington St. but have
had no success with the waste department, despite several emails and a phone call. The wheeled bin that the
city provides is taken out the night before the pick -up and placed on the corner as instructed, but it is never
emptied. I can't figure it out. In one email I was told that the collectors would need to `radio in' when it was
emptied — to assure that it was — but obviously this never happened. This is frustrating since I pay for waste
removal each month. Your help with this would be greatly appreciated.
Yours sincerely,
Richard Beyer
Marian Karr
From: Roberts, Cindy <cindy- roberts @uiowa.edu>
Sent: Sunday, February 10, 2013 8:50 AM
To: Council
Cc: Marcia Bollinger; Tom Markus; 'michael -moran @iowa- city.org; Chad Dyson; 'matt -
eidahl @uiowa.edu'
Subject: Family Skate time returns to Grant Wood Elem -FYI from Cindy Roberts
Attachments: Grant Wood roller skating poster.docx
Dear Mayor Hayek and City Council Members,
This past fall I updated you on a decision that was made to temporarily discontinue our skate night at GW
gym due to a variety of concerns. I'm pleased to share that Family Skate time has returned to Grant Wood
Elementary effective January 20. We changed our time from Friday evenings to Sunday afternoons. Marcia
Bollinger and I met with our skate supervisors prior to the January start -up to review skate time policies
and behavior expectations of those who attend. As you know, PIN grant funds are used each year to
cover our Parks & Rec staff salaries and equipment costs.
I'll be visiting skate time periodically this winter /early spring to see how things are going and to get
feedback from staff. Later in the spring when GWNA presents their PIN grant requests for 2013 -14, I'll be
able to give you more complete feedback on how things are going.
I'm optimistic that the changes we've made will ensure we have a safe and enjoyable environment for all
who attend. As always, we appreciate the City Council's support via the PIN grant funds for our
neighborhood association.
Thank you,
Ct*-1 y
Cindy Roberts, Coordinator
Grant Wood Neighborhood Association
As FYI -Copy of email I sent to my GW neighborhood email group
Dear Neighbors,
Family Skate Returns to Grant Wood Elementary Gym
Roller Skating is back at Grant Wood Gym starting Sunday, January 20 from Noon until 2:00 PM. They
will continue every Sunday throughout the rest of the school year. The Grant Wood Neighborhood
Association receives grant funding through the Program for Improving Neighborhoods for this event
through the City of Iowa City.
The new schedule is:
FAMILY /SLOW SKATE - Noon - 1:00 PM - for slower /inexperienced skaters
FAST SKATE - 1:00 PM - 2:00 pm - for faster, experienced skaters
The rules and policies for the event include:
• Skaters 6th grade and younger must be accompanied by a supervisor at least 16 years of age.
• Supervisors can be responsible for up to 3 skaters
• Use of skates will require a $1 deposit or approved ID for each pair of skates
• Behavioral expectations will be strictly enforced by staff and those not willing to comply will be
asked to leave and possibly not permitted to participate for an extended period of time.
Please take advantage of this Family Friendly event! Contact Cindy Roberts or Marcia Bollinger
if you have questions or comments.
"Serving Our Neighborhood N Making a Difference"
Grant Wood Neighborhood Association /GWNA
Iowa City, IA
ROLi •Fu
SKATING
Sundays - Noon - 2:00 PM
(starting January Zo, 2- 013)
Noon - voo pm Family /Slow Skate
for slower /inexperienced skaters
1:00 - z:oo pm Fast Skate
for experienced skaters
V * ** *Policies * * **
Age policy: Children 6th grade and below must be accompanied by a responsible
supervisor at all times. Children 7th grade and above can participate in Skate -night
without a responsible supervisor.
Supervisor Requirements: supervisor must be at least 16 years old and required to
show ID as proof of age. They may be responsible for no more than 3 skaters.
Deposit: All skates will require a $i deposit for each pair of skates or an acceptable ID,
one per pair of skates. Bills larger than one dollar will NOT be accepted. Deposit will
be returned when skates are returned at the end of the event.
Rule Enforcement: Any participant violating any of rules /policies twice in an evening
will be required to leave skate night and school property.
The Iowa City Recreation Division reserves the right to refuse entrance to Skate -night to skaters and /or their
supervisor for an extended period of time if ongoing violations of policies occur.
Skate Night is sponsored by the Grant Wood Neighborhood Association and the City of Iowa City.
Marian Karr
From: kathleen henderson <kmhenders @hotmail.com>
Sent: Monday, February 04, 2013 1:37 PM
To: Council
Subject: tall building
Council Members:
I think 20 stories is too tall for Iowa City. We should not abandon our planning and zoning designations or try to override
the FFA rules because a developer wants us to. I can understand making no space for the Co -op if you feel they would
compete too much with the Bread Garden, but Moen should modify his plans and build something more sensible. I didn't
like any of the designs. I miss the small old gas station that was there and would like something that hinted at Art Deco.
Kathleen Henderson
Marian Karr
From: Joy Smith <joysmi @aol.com>
Sent: Tuesday, February 05, 2013 9:02 PM
To: Council
Subject: Keep New Pioneer Co -op Expansion in downtown Iowa City
Joy Smith & David Rust
915 East Bloomington Street
Iowa City, IA 52245
319.855.8749
Dear Iowa City Council Members,
The preservation and revitalization of the Central District of Iowa City is important to us. It is where we
dine, meet friends, go for entertainment, shop, and own a commercial building. We do nearly all our
business in the center of the city and care deeply about central district development. Let us be clear
up front: we appreciate previous Moen Group downtown developments because we think they have
helped to beautify and revitalize the core of the city.
However, the more we learn about the Council's selection of The Chauncey as the preferred
development for the public land at the corner of College and Gilbert Street, the greater our dismay.
The Council selected a project that is radically inconsistent with Iowa City's Comprehensive Plan,
which describes a vision for the kind of community we should be and the steps necessary to get
there. Moreover, the Council's most preferred option is an unnecessarily risky investment of taxpayer
funds. We believe the Council disregarded public input and city planning documents with regard to
building use, density, sustainability, design and affordable housing. These are all issues that deserve
Council reconsideration.
Today we write to express alarm at the Council's decision to deal New Pioneer Co -op out of the
project. With that decision, the Council turned its back on a business that could serve as an economic
engine for the entire downtown area.
To rectify the situation the Council should:
• Negotiate with the chosen developer to include New Pioneer Co -op as the anchor
commercial store, OR
• Do whatever is necessary to assure that New Pi secures a suitable location for
expansion within the core downtown Iowa City area.
When people like us urge the Council to extend particular regard to New Pioneer, it is not because we
have some pie -in- the -sky love affair with an old "hippie" business. Rather, we know that New Pi is a
financially thriving gem in the world of member -owned Co -ops. The Council should go to great
lengths to assure that New Pioneer expands in downtown Iowa City because:
• It is not dependent on taxpayer funds for financial success. New Pioneer has no debt and
has annual revenue is $24 million dollars; $12 million are generated by the downtown store.
With expansion, Co -op market studies predict downtown revenue of 18 million dollars.
New Pi has a 41 -year history as a good community citizen. In 2011 New Pi made $71,000 in
donations to 185 non - profit organizations in the area, including human service agencies, arts
organizations, schools, and organizations promoting health and a cleaner, greener
environment.
New Pioneer brings shoppers to the center of the city. The Co -op has 26,000 members who
reside throughout the corridor. Market studies anticipate that an expanded Iowa City store
would annually generate 250,000 customer visits.
New Pioneer provides good jobs. The Co -op currently employs 190 people. Seventy
employees work in the Iowa City store. New Pi anticipates that an expansion will add thirty new
jobs. New Pi strives to maintain 70 -75% of its positions as full -time. The Co -op provides a
comprehensive benefit package to all full -time employees, including leave days, a 5% 401 K
match, profit- sharing bonuses, and disability, dental, life, and health insurance. New Pi pays
80% of the cost of a single health insurance plan for full time employees.
New Pi supports the growth of other small businesses. One hundred and fifty of New Pi's
suppliers are local. It is expected that an expanded Iowa City store would boost purchases
from local farmers and producers to $500,000.
New Pi's current location in a flood plain does not allow for growth and may be
unsustainable.
If the Council disregards New Pioneer as an important economic and cultural member of the
community, the Co -op will certainly invest its expansion resources somewhere else to the
great loss of downtown Iowa City. Iowa City can't afford to make this sort of bad business
decision.
Sincerely,
Joy Smith and David Rust
Marian Karr
From:
Devin Redmond <devinredmond @hotmail.com>
Sent:
Wednesday, February 06, 2013 4:12 PM
To:
Council
Subject:
possibilities for the new pioneer co -op
Good afternoon, Council Members,
First off, thank you for your service to Iowa City. I can only imagine it is a thankless job, but I am
appreciative of your time and efforts to make Iowa City a great place.
I am writing in regards to the New Pioneer Co -op being overlooked as a possibility for the corner of
College and Gilbert Street development. When all of the hubbub was going on, I didn't write to you all
voicing my excitement about the chance for the store to have a new space. I should have, but I
honestly and truly thought they were a shoe -in for the spot. They were included in what? Four out of
the five final plans? I was utterly shocked when the Co -op was overlooked, especially for a 20 -story
monstrosity.
feel the Co -op deserves prime real estate in our city for the following reasons:
1. The New Pioneer Co -op is successful.
2. The store is used often by Iowa Citians and even those outside of the community.
3. 1 know many employees at the Co -op personally who receive a living wage, along with benefits.
4. The Co -op just donated money (about $2,500) to every Food Bank in the area, including North
Liberty, but they are consistently being what I would call a "good citizen business."
5. 1 feel the Co -op has paid its dues in Iowa City.
I am not sure there is any chance left that the New Pioneer Co -op could still be included as a
possibility for the corner of College and Gilbert Street, but if there is, I implore you to think about
it. Can the space chosen include the Co -op? Would the Moen /Mondonaro group go for this
possibility? Can we get rid of the bowling alley? Are you all Big Lebowski fans? No one I talk to
wants a bowling alley! : -)
Thank you for your time,
Have a great night,
Devin Redmond
Brown Street, Iowa City
Marian Karr
From: Heywood, Ellen M <ellen- heywood @uiowa.edu>
Sent: Friday, February 08, 2013 10:34 AM
To: Council
Subject: College /Gilbert St Redevelopment Project
Dear City Council:
We write today to urge you to negotiate with the chosen developer of the College /Gilbert redevelopment
project to include space for the New Pioneer Cooperative.
In its 40 -plus years, New Pioneer has never asked for tax incentives from the City to support expansion. Yet
they have operated as our responsible citizen, donating thousands to local charities, paying their full -time
employees a living wage with benefits, and operating their business in a committed ecologically- sensitive way.
As you are aware, the Coop is located in a flood plain and cannot expand. It is not the optimal location for a
grocery store, but a downtown location is absolutely necessary to serve the majority of their customers. Their
options in the downtown are limited and the College /Gilbert project meets their needs on several fronts.
Many businesses come and go, but New Pioneer is here to stay. Your actions should encourage established
local businesses to succeed and grow. You have the power to ensure the Coop's continued success by keeping
them in Iowa City in a downtown location. That location should be the College /Gilbert project.
Sincerely,
Ellen Heywood & Paul Ingram
1178 E Court St
Iowa City, IA 52240
337 -6003
Marian Karr
From: Brown, Victoria <BROWNV @Grinnell.EDU>
Sent: Sunday, February 10, 2013 11:48 AM
To: Council
Subject: New Pioneer Co -op Expansion
February 10, 2013
To: Iowa City Council
From: Victoria & Jim Brown
Re: New Pioneer Co -op and downtown development
We write out of concern — and genuine disappointment — that the plan for development at Gilbert and College
Street does not currently include space for the New Pioneer Co -op. We truly do not understand why this well -
established, successful, valued downtown business was not incorporated into the plan as a reliable anchor in this
new venture. At this time when we hear so much about businesses seeking tax incentive funds to come to our
community or expand in our community, New Pi has asked for nothing except space in which to meet existing
demand. Providing that space for New Pi involves no wild speculation on whether it will succeed and no doubt
about what community citizen it will be. New Pi has an impressive track record, including its successful
expansion into Coralville, its debt -free status, and its continued participation in community development
through in -kind donations to human services and purchases from local farmers and producers.
New Pi already attracts thousands of shoppers into the downtown area, but its cramped space and limited
parking on a flood plain put an arbitrary ceiling on its ability to serve its current and potential clientele. As part
of New Pi's 26,000 membership, we know about the market studies showing that an expanded store would
invite 250,000 additional customer visits each year. Why is the City Council not banking on this strong record
of New Pi patronage to build a solid business foundation at the Gilbert and College Street development? It just
makes no sense to us that, in choosing the Chauncey plan, the Council seems to have ignored input from both
citizens and city planners as well as simple marketing data. Why? What interests are being served by this plan?
As you move into the zoning phase of this development project, we implore you to re -think the exclusion of
New Pioneer Co -op from the plan. This store is one of the signature businesses in Iowa City and has earned an
expanded facility in the downtown. We think it makes sense to place that expanded facility in the location of
the new development project. If, by any chance, there are cultural issues operating here — some sense that New
Pi is a "hippie" store that serves a fringe population in Iowa City — the Council should closely interrogate those
prejudices, ask if they are accurate (or fair), and set about making policy based on known data, not outdated
ideas that no longer reflect the cultural, ideological, and dietary diversity that characterizes all of Iowa City, not
a fringe.
We have belonged to New Pioneer Co -op for over twenty years and regard it as among the gems of Iowa City.
We hope you will re- consider your decision regarding its expansion and relocation.
Victoria & Jim Brown
2659 Hickory Trail
Iowa City, IA 52245
,n �r 113
V ecr �-o w C-0 U/I c, ,
W fr'K
�h GL/,l c e `�- �" e- �C�p M (" �, W i�Q ✓) � �i %'� � /a,, IQ c3C r� � I" i2 Wl Gin `�-
+0 A vvJop �� 614/ T- m, -sr, ek 4x-e- CA CL u,, C07 cQ s o vyLoLk-t7
(/ V
�w4- w wi� e�ec� -� it�2�e r` � / i e-►�. � e� � 5 �� ec, � Rs7� � �,, �G,e
a of pin-ill-el 4v w e cc U il.. ✓2 r'Se' S h-,dei f.s
T nF f c� m*n u n.. &-4 0. t." Lve& 41C a
T �� GQ¢. p�, � /� �� I� �� �O crz. �- ��'�¢ G�G �S t'w, � vr� v v 2 "�r k/G✓�
i
Marian Karr
From: David Borger Germann <david.borgergermann @gmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, February 14, 2013 8:10 AM
To: Matt Hayek; Rick Dobyns; Susan Mims; Terry Dickens; Michelle Payne; Jim Throgmorton;
Council
Subject: building
Dear Iowa City City Council,
There is a letter to the editor in today's Press Citizen (Thursday, Feb. 14, 2013) that exactly mirrors my own
opinion on the Chauncey - see the link below.
I respectfully ask that the council reconsider this development choice. Perhaps in 5, 7, or 10 years, the City may
be ready for this kind of development, but I do not think the time is now.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
David Borger Germann
Iowa City resident
http• / /www press- citizen comlarticlel20130214lOPlNIONO5 /302140012 /Wrong- choice - made - Chauncey
Marian Karr
From:
Carol deProsse <lonetreefox @mac.com>
Sent:
Tuesday, February 12, 2013 8:17 AM
To:
Council
Subject:
Blog on City Manager /County Relations
Hope you will take the time to read this.
Carol deProsse
http : / /twoatthefrinee.blogspot.com/ 2013 /02 /city - managers- attitude - hurts - all- county.htmI
5f(8)
City Manager's Attitude Hurts All County
Residents
Iowa City JohnsonCounty
Current relations between Iowa City and Johnson County lead one to conclude that either
City Manager Markus is in desperate need of a basic civics tutorial on Iowa local
government, or he is adopting an exceedingly selfish "me first and the devil take the
hindmost" policy in his dealings with the County.
Since he has stated publicly that he wants to stay here for the rest of his active career it
seems that ignorance is the more likely reason for his intransigence. He spent many years in
Michigan where local government is structured far differently and the county does not play
the role that it does in Iowa:
http / /ci bangor mi us /PDFs/ Government / Michigan %20Local %2oGovernment %20Structu
re. df
With a strong township structure the system is more diffuse in Michigan, but here the city is
a mere pimple on the face of the County (or as with Coralville, a running sore).
In Johnson County the cities are starving the County by their use of TIFs and are still
expecting the County to take care of all the key services that it is responsible for under the
Code of Iowa. This cavalier and shortsighted view has got to STOP.
With those thoughts we reprint -- with permission and some minor editing -- the
comments of Supervisor Rod Sullivan in his latest edition of Sullivan's Salvos. If you are
interested in subscribing to Rod's weekly comments, mostly on county business, you may do
so by sending an email to rodsullivan@mchsi.com with the word `subscribe' in the subject
line.
- -Carol deProsse
Caroline Dieterle
An Open Letter to City Manager Tom Markus
Dear Tom:
You blew it. There was a great opportunity for Iowa City and Johnson County to work
together, but you blew it.
OK - let me get the obvious out of the way. I am speaking for myself, and not the whole
Board of Supervisors. (I have a disclaimer that says as much at the end of every edition of
Salvos. Today is no different.) Let me also say - if individual Board members disagree with
me, you should ask them to explain their own theories. You deserve to know how the
people that represent you think.
You screwed the County when it came to the Animal Shelter and now you are being
disingenuous when it comes to SEATS negotiations. I'do not trust 'you. 'I do not like the way
you do business.
It was not always this way. Yes, Iowa City has always assumed itself to be superior to
Johnson County. That mild arrogance is just Iowa City. It is almost
heartwarming. (DELETE `For you ") But Iowa City was never malicious. As a matter of fact,
Iowa City used to be quite friendly and helpful where Johnson County was concerned.
Things took a`turn for the worse during the whole JECC debacle, but we were recovering
from that. You blew it.
So Tom. Let's talk a bit about YOUR "theories" -as they apply to local government.
First of all, Iowa City recently put out a press release on the SEATS program. In the first
sentence of the 5th paragraph, it stated: "Johnson County has firmly indicated that they
intend to phase out funding of para- transit services."
That sentence is patently false. Johnson County is committed to continuing to provide
SEATS services in EVERY case where SEATS is a County responsibility. The only "phasing
out" is the decision Johnson County made to "phase out" a $500,000+ annual subsidy to
Iowa City. I would like the public record to reflect the reality rather than your gross
misrepresentation.
Johnson County's commitment to pay for para- transit services has been demonstrated for
40+ years. Now it is time for Iowa City to step up and meet its federally mandated
responsibilities.
The press release goes on to state: "Central to these discussions is the issue of having
each community fund their equitable portion for the services provided to their residents.
Iowa City firmly believes that our residents should pay an equitable share of costs for
these critically important para- transit services. However, we also understand that our
residents pay taxes to both Iowa City and Johnson County and further believe that
equitable funding shares should include the source of tax dollars regardless of the
governmental entity that collects them."
That would be great. But it is not true. You do not REALLY. want equitable funding and you
apparently don't mind gouging the County.
Want to pay equitably, Tom? We can get together a bill for Ambulance services - about
80% of the calls occur in Iowa City. Your Public Health bill will be huge - you can cover the
costs of inspecting all the restaurants, tattoo parlors, swimming pools, saunas, etc. You'll
also owe quite a bit for WIC and Child and Maternal Health - most of those clients come
from Iowa City. Don't even get me STARTED on alcohol issues!
A high percentage of the people who use Johnson County Conservation areas /trails are
from Iowa City. We will need to charge you accordingly. Almost all of our Medical
Examiner calls occur within Iowa City limits. That will cost you well over a million bucks.
The County has an annual Mental Health budget of over $15 million. Most of the clients
live in Iowa City. Your check for $12 million can't arrive soon enough!
Iowa City residents can pay a surcharge every time they use the Recorder's Office. Most of
our births, deaths, marriages, divorces, and property transactions are in Iowa City. Same
goes for the Treasurer's Office - whenever they pay taxes or renew plates. These offices
cost money to run, you know! Oh, and the Treasurer collects and distributes all of Iowa
City's annual property taxes - over $70 million. We are going to need to begin charging a
small fee for this service; perhaps 1 %. Surely you don't object!
Iowa City cops can start paying to drop prisoners off at the jail. Better yet, build your
owngoddamned jail! Iowa City puts the most people there anyway! And you'll be getting a
bill for Iowa City residents who access the Courts. The County Attorney will need to
charge about $400 /hour to prosecute all Iowa City cases. That will be a lot, but don't
worry - it should be under $10 million!
Johnson County is spending about $4 million on human services.' Ummm.... I hate to break
it to you, but'- yeah. Mostly Iowa City. Plus we pay to house DHS and Juvenile Court. The
people using those offices are largely from Swisher. (Whoops! I mean largely from Iowa
City! Just seeing if you are still paying attention!) Veteran's Affairs? Almost all Iowa City.
But that is a relatively small budget.
And last but certainly NOT least - we'd love the millions in TIF money you have stolen
over the years!
Still want "equitable funding ", Tom? Yeah, that is what I thought! It makes for a great
sound bite, but in reality, your "principled stand" is all bullshit.
live in Iowa City. My home is assessed at $162,000. I pay about $1400 (44 %) of my taxes
to Iowa City. I pay about $550 (17 %) of my taxes to Johnson County. (About 37% goes to
the ICCSD. )
Now that I think about it, Tom - why don't you put your money where your mouthis and
charge Iowa City residents based only upon the services they use? If your theory works on
the city Level, why not the individual` level?
I:hhave never had a fire, and don't wish to pay for the Fire Department (and their fancy
fireplaces). So chop that off my taxes. The public art you have chosen is not to my liking -
I'll take a refund on that, too. Senior Center? I'm not even 50 yet.
Streets? Frankly, the plowing is piss-poor. I'm not paying full freight there. Cut my share
in half. Building inspectors? Used one once, and paid a fee to do so. Count me out.
Parks? fuse a lot of them. But none on the west side. Put my bill for them at 75 %. My kids
are basically grown, so no more paying for soccer fields or swimming pools for me. Let the
users pay, right Tom?
Oh, and salaries! Your $160,000 salary? ,I believe in paying a livable wage, so put me down
for my share of the $50,000 1 think you are worth.
OK - I will freely admit that I have been cheeky in presenting these examples. But the fact
remains, my examples are EVERY BIT as legitimate as your arguments re: SEATS. Iowa City
residents may be paying a tiny bit too much in one area - they are paying a tiny bit too
little in others. If folks are too upset by this, they have recourse!
We have a great system in County government - we vote. If the majority of the people
want me gone, I'm gone. You, meanwhile... there is NOTHING I can do to get rid of you.
I'd have to recruit 4 candidates who all agreed to fire you. All 4 would need to win, that
takes two election cycles. You are pretty untouchable - I'll give you that!
Markus, you should probably focus on the 44% of my taxes that is your job! If you want to
be a County Supervisor, you should run for the job! Meanwhile, the city I have called
home for 30 years is getting worse, not better. Tom - you have work to do. Why don't you
quit whining about Johnson County and do it?
By the way, I am happy to discuss any and all of this in any public forum. I prefer a public
forum, where minutes are kept or recordings are made. See, I have nothing to hide, this is
public business - may you have the courage to discuss it in public!
I have known /visited Iowa City my whole life. I have lived in Iowa City for 30 years. I am
an Iowa Citian. I am not going anywhere. You, on the other hand, are a hired gun. You are
going to be here 2 -3 more years, then take the retirement you want to deny your cops and
firefighters and retire to someplace you consider home. And I'll be here to clean up your
mess. I care about this City, and I care about this County. You decided to put my town's
future in the balance. You now have a fight on your hands and may the best man win.
Supervisor Rod Sullivan
From: Clem, Patricia < patricia.clem @nebraskablue.com>
Sent: Wednesday, February 13, 2013 11:39 AM
To: Council
Subject: Blue Moose Tavern
This correspondence will become a public record.
Good Morning,
My name is Patricia Clem, I am contacting you from Omaha, Ne. this is in regards to my daughter Michaela
Clem. She was the young woman who was assaulted at the Blue Moose on Sat. Feb 9th. The young lady that
assaulted her was underage, and visibly intoxicated. I understand the concert was a 18 and over show, and wrist
bands were given to patrons of legal drinking age. The problem we have with the tavern, is there was not
adequate security present in the actual room where the band was playing. There should have been security
throughout the crowd, especially since minors were mixed in with the older kids. Michaela suffered several
lacerations on her face and chest, an inch further and the glass would have gone into her throat, a couple of
inches higher, into her eye. We are thankful for neither. After the girl hit her with the glass, she proceeded to
grab her hair and punch her, and still no security was present. The local newspaper wrote that bar employees
pulled the girl off of Michaela, that is incorrect. My daughters friends had to pull the girl off of her. I am asking
that you take into consideration the renewal of the bars liquor license, or at least not allow them to hold concerts
with minors present. They should be held accountable. I did read on your website about PAULA, maybe this
could apply to concerts also.
I thank you very much for your time.
Patricia Clem.
DISCLAIMER
This communication, along with any attachments, is covered by federal and state law governing electronic communications and may contain confidential and
legally privileged information. It is intended solely for the addressee. If you are reading this message, but you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby
notified that you may not disclose, print, copy, store, forward or otherwise use or disseminate the information contained in this transmission. If you have received
this message in error, immediately contact the sender and destroy all copies of the original. Thank you.