HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013-05-14 Bd Comm minutesAirport Commission
March 21, 2013
Page 1
MINUTES FINAL
IOWA CITY AIRPORT COMMISSION
MARCH 21, 2013 — 6:00 P.M.
AIRPORT TERMINAL BUILDING
Members Present: Howard Horan, Chris Ogren, Minnetta Gardinier, Paul Hofineyer
Members Absent: Jose Assouline
Staff Present: Sue Dulek, Michael Tharp
Others Present: Matt Wolford, Philip Wolford, Eric Scott, David Hughes
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council
action): None
CALL TO ORDER:
Tharp noted that due to chair's absence and the secretary's term having expired on February
28, he would act as temporary chair, and he called the meeting to order at 6:07 P.M.
5b(1)
a. Hangar L/M Tour: Tharp asked the Commission to move the tour to the first
item. Ogren moved to amend the agenda, seconded by Horan. Motion carried 4 -0 (Assouline
absent). Tharp escorted members and members of the public to the Hangar L and M buildings
for a tour and description of the recently completed projects. Members then returned to the
conference room for the remainder of the meeting.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS:
Tharp noted that they need to open the floor for nominations for Chair. Horan nominated
Gardinier. Gardinier suggested they nominate Horan. Ogren asked how long Horan has been
on the Commission. Horan noted that he has been on the Commission the last 19 years, with
three years off at one point. Others asked if he would accept the Chair nomination, to which he
responded that he would. Horan moved to nominate Gardinier for Chair; no second given.
Motion died. Gardinier moved to nominate Horan for Chair; seconded by Ogren. Motion
carried 3 -0. (Assouline absent, Horan Abstained)
At this point Horan asked for nominations for Secretary. Horan moved to nominate Ogren for
Secretary; seconded by Gardinier. Motion carried 3 -0. (Assouline absent Ogren
Abstained). Ogren asked for a brief rundown of just what this position will entail, and Members
responded.
APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES:
Minutes of the February 21, 2013, meeting were reviewed. Ogren stated that under item b,
toward the bottom of page 1, "...when there were active," should read "...when they were
active." Also, the last line of item b, "...when they a couple days away," should be "...when they
are a couple days away." Moving to the last page, Ogren noted under j, "...let people know
about these and upcoming availability for the Commission." She questioned what this was
meant to be. Tharp stated that at this time they were talking about the open seats on the
Commission and recruiting new Members. Tharp will review this to be sure. Ogren then noted
Airport Commission
March 21, 2013
Page 2
on page 2, under item e, she questioned it having David Hughes' name here since he was not
able to make the meeting. Dulek noted that the agenda has his name on it and that the minutes
are taken from this. She also noted that the wording does show Hughes was absent. Ogren
moved to approve the minutes as amended; seconded by Horan. Motion carried 4 -0,
Assouline absent.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
None.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION /ACTION:
b. Airport Commerce Park — Tharp noted that Edberg is not present this evening.
Dulek added that Carousel Motors has submitted building plans now, so the last
two lots are now beginning to see some progress. She added that there is one
issue going before Council regarding an access easement, but that this will most
likely move forward with no problems. Gardinier asked if there has been any
interest in the remaining lots. Tharp stated that there has not been any, to his
knowledge.
C. Fly Iowa — Ogren stated that she believes they need to make an official decision
on this event if they are going to host it or not. She asked new Member,
Hofineyer, if he was familiar with this event and she briefly filled him in on what
has taken place so far. Gardinier noted that McDonald did send her an email
recently, asking if there was interest by Iowa City to host the 2014 Fly Iowa
event. She stated that she responded that there was interest, but that they
needed to get some solid commitments. She added that she believes each of
them needs to take on some role to make this event happen. Horan asked if
Gardinier and Ogren could identify the major tasks that need to be done.
Members continued to discuss the Fly Iowa event, with Gardinier and Ogren
asking others to step forward and play a part in the planning for this. Jet Air also
verbalized their interest in taking a part in this. Gardinier added that raising
money will also be an issue. She asked if Jet Air would be willing to contribute,
such as they did with the Air Race Classic event.
The conversation continued with members discussing what all will need to be
done in order to host this event. Contacting local groups, such as the
Barnstormers, is something that Gardinier has done to see if they would like to
collaborate on this event. Gardinier stated that she did hear back from the
Barnstormers group and that they would be interested in some capacity. Horan
asked if they shouldn't break down the tasks so they can get a feel for just what
they will need to do. There was a list around from the 2001 event that Tharp will
attempt to locate. Gardinier began to break down some of the areas as she
remembers them: youth aviation piece — Deb Dunkcase would be able to handle
this piece. Media — they need to get people from the media involved, such as
Chuck Peters who owns the Gazette, as he is a pilot. Other ideas for
collaboration were to get someone from the City involved, as well as the Fire
Department and Police Department, and others around the community from
various backgrounds engaged, as well. Another idea was to contact Rockwell
Collins and request flight simulators and possibly even a grant to help with the
financing.
Airport Commission
March 21, 2013
Page 3
The discussion continued, with Members looking at every aspect of hosting the
2014 Fly Iowa event. Parking at the Fairgrounds with some type of shuttle to the
Airport was one issue raised. Tharp stated that he could make some calls to see
if the Fairgrounds was available. Members agreed that at this point they need to
give an official 'yes,' review the contract, and get a committee together for the Fly
Iowa 2014 event. Tharp suggested having McDonald to the next meeting to
answer Members' questions and to get things rolling. Gardinier suggested they
wait another meeting, until they have time to review all of the data they have thus
far. She will get this information together and can also create more of a
committee structure for the next meeting, as well. Members agreed with this plan
of action.
d. FAA/IDOT Projects: AECOM / David Hughes
i. 7/25 Parallel Taxiway Paving & Lighting — Hughes stated that hopefully
one day soon it will stop snowing and the ground will thaw out. They have been
in contact with the contractor and are getting things laid out, but it all depends on
the weather. Horan asked what the next step is, and Hughes responded briefly.
Gardinier stated that she noticed some cracks starting in the paving by her
hangar. Hughes noted that this is something they need to discuss, as far as
DOT maintenance money, as it does need some maintenance in this area. Jet
Air will look into this further, to sweep away the chunks of asphalt.
ii. Airport Electrical Rehab — On this item Hughes noted there are several
punchlist items that need to be finished up before they can release this, but this
is also weather - dependent.
iii. FY2014 Iowa DOT Grant Application — Hughes stated that he has been
working with Tharp on this. They have come up with a list of several items. This
is due in early May. Tharp stated that by next meeting they will have this
formalized. One of the main items is the fuel tank repainting and rehab;
overlaying the north -south taxiway after the other rehabs are complete; and then
rehabbing the pavement around the hangars. Tharp continued, explaining the
various items that need to be addressed in this application. Ogren asked for
some clarification of the local match amounts and Tharp explained how this is
typically handled. Members continued to discuss the grant application and the
projects that could be covered under this. Tharp stated that they will put together
several options, depending on the money available, and should have something
for Members to approve at the next meeting. The deadline is May 9th
e. Airport Operations
i. Strategic Plan — Implementation — Tharp noted that he doesn't have
anything new here to share. Going back to this topic, Gardinier asked if there
has been a serious discussion regarding this plan lately. Tharp noted that there
has not been. She suggested they review this yearly and perhaps move a
project or two forward. Members agreed to add this to next month's agenda.
ii. Budget — Tharp stated that they are doing well budget -wise. He added
that with regards to the budget, they did go ahead with the fuel tank cleaning, as
mentioned in last month's meeting. The estimate was $2,800 and the final bill
was at $2,650, according to Tharp. Horan added that the accounting sheets are
very difficult to read. Tharp stated that the City is updating a lot of its software
and it should be online in July.
iii. Management
Airport Commission
March 21, 2013
Page 4
1. Operations Specialist Evaluation — Tharp noted that since
Assouline is not present, and he is the main one responsible for this
year's review, that they defer one more meeting. Horan asked if Tharp
had emailed this information to Hofineyer, stating that it would help him to
understand the process they go through to do this.
f. FBO / Flight Training Reports
I. Jet Air — Matt and Philip Wolford were present from Jet Air. Matt
reviewed the maintenance reports to date. For February, he noted the large
snowstorms they have had and all of the work they've had to put into plowing and
de- icing. A fuel vent on the AV tank was replaced due to some possible leakage.
March has brought another snowstorm, and also a run on light bulbs around the
Airport. Philip shared that there isn't much to report right now. With spring
approaching, he hopes to see increased activity.
ii. Iowa Flight Training — Gardinier suggested Tharp contact IFT to see
how things are going since they have not heard from him in quite some time.
g. Subcommittee Reports
L For March: Members began to review the various subcommittees, with
new Members receiving some history on the various committees. Tharp
explained who is typically on each subcommittee and how they work on items
such as the budget, community liaison, and economic development. This led to
a discussion about the Air Race Classic making Iowa City a stop in their 2014
event. Gardinier added that she thought this had been taken care of, and Tharp
noted that he has been in touch with them, and plans are being finalized.
Members continued to discuss the open seats on the subcommittees, with Ogren
stating that she would be glad to sit on several. Horan switched himself around
on several different committees. The discussion turned to how they might
collaborate with area businesses, such as the motels on Riverside Drive, or even
host a monthly steak fry or something similar to bring more traffic to the Airport.
Tharp noted that they are looking at acquiring a grill and a picnic bench for the
Airport. Gardinier suggested they revisit the viewing area plans and perhaps set
these things up there. The newer Members joined in on the subcommittees, as
well.
h. Commission Members' Reports — Horan asked Hofineyer to share something
about himself with the Committee. Hofineyer introduced himself, adding that he
earned his private pilot's license while in college. After several years away from
flying, last summer he got back into aviation and is currently just renting the 172
from Iowa Flight Training. Hofineyer continued, sharing that he has a
mechanical engineering background. He currently works at Rockwell Collins as
a Senior Quality Engineer. Ogren shared the progress of their airplane that her
husband is building at home. Gardinier stated that she just got back from a flight
to Tennessee this past weekend. She shared a story of how when she was
leaving for Tennessee the other day, she accidentally ran off the runway into
some mud. Horan shared that he heard the City received an award recently for
their "open government" and he congratulated the staff. Horan then shared that
he returned safely to the ground with his 14th CFI (certified flight instructor) in
three years. Horan now has somewhere around 45 flight hours under his belt.
i. Staff Report — Tharp noted that the Iowa Aviation conference is next month —
April 24th and 25th. The format has changed somewhat, so this year, according to
Tharp, the 25th is the day where everything is happening, and the 24th is the Iowa
Public Airport Association's general meeting and a pilot seminar that evening.
Airport Commission
March 21, 2013
Page 5
He shared that he has been asked to be a speaker this year, and this sparked a
discussion by Members on attending this year's conference. Tharp asked that
Members let him know if they plan to attend. He will get the information about
the meeting and the daily agendas to Members so they can make their decision
about attending. Tharp then mentioned some zoning issues that have come up
regarding building heights, the FAA, and that type of thing. Dulek further
explained the history behind this and how the Airport Zoning and Board of
Adjustment Commissions may need to be revived. Members were encouraged
to talk to members in the community about serving on these newly revived
committees. Dulek noted that there will be more on this issue in upcoming
agendas. Gardinier added that she will draft an email and have Dulek review it
before she sends it out to the EAA, for example, to recruit new committee
members.
SET NEXT REGULAR MEETING FOR:
The next regular meeting will be Thursday, April 18, 2013, at 6:00 P.M. at the Airport Terminal
building.
ADJOURN:
Horan adjourned the meeting at 8:01 P.M.;
CHAIRPERSON DATE
Airport Commission
March 21, 2013
Page 6
Airport Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2013
Key:
X = Present
X/E = Present for Part of Meeting
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = Not a Member at this time
TERM
�
Cn
0)
O
J00
0--
-.%
O
N
O
W
O
NAME
EXP.
co
-
to
rn
N
°
00
cn
o
N
C0
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
W
W
W
W
03/01/13
Rick
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
NM
Mascari
03/01/14
Howard
Horan
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Minnetta
03/01/15
Gardinier
X
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
Jose
03102/16
Assouline
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
Chris
03/01/14
Ogren
NM
NM
NM
NM
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Paul
03/01/17
Hofineyer
NM
NM
NM
NM
NM
NM
NM
NM
NM
NM
NM
X
Key:
X = Present
X/E = Present for Part of Meeting
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = Not a Member at this time
5b(2)
MINUTES — FINAL
CITY OF IOWA CITY CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION
APRIL 30, 2013 — 8:15 a.m.
HELLING CONFERENCE ROOM — CITY HALL
Members Present: Lyra Dickerson, Paul Hoffey, Jesse Case
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: Karen Jennings, Tom Markus, Andy Rocca, Sarah Holecek, and
Tracy Robinson
Others Present: None
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL (become effective only after separate Council
action):
None
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 8:15 a.m. Lyra Dickerson chaired the meeting.
Dickerson welcomed Case to the Commission. Dickerson confirmed that each
Commissioner had a copy of Iowa Code Chapter 400.
FIRE CHIEF RECRUITMENT:
The Commission reviewed the recruitment proposal and draft materials. The Commission
agreed that Dickerson would represent the Commission on the selection committee, with
Hoffey acting as alternate.
Dickerson asked if the Iowa Class D driver's license would be required of an applicant;
Jennings confirmed that it would be required after hire. Dickerson asked in what formats
would the questionnaire be accepted; Jennings confirmed that fax, email, mail and in-
person would all be accepted. Case asked what input the Fire Union might have during
the process; Jennings replied that everyone would be welcome to the public forum and
Markus added that bargaining unit members would be encouraged to attend the forum
and offer feedback. Hoffey asked if the required City residency would have a time limit;
Jennings replied yes and that the recruitment materials would be updated with that before
distribution.
OLD BUSINESS:
None
NEW BUSINESS:
On behalf of the Commission Dickerson thanked Rocca for his years of dedicated service
to the City.
ADJOURNMENT:
Hoffey moved to adjourn, Case seconded and the meeting was adjourned at 8:28 a.m.
Board /Commission: Civil Service Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2013
(Meeting Date)
NAME
TERM
EXPIRES
1/8/13
4/30/13
Lyra Dickerson
4/7/14
X
X
Paul Hoffey
4/4/16
X
X
Jesse Case
4/3/17
- --
X
Bill Cook
4/1113
O/E
- --
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No Meeting
- -- = Not a Member
'r. ®gar CITY OF IOWA CITY,
5b(3)
Date: May 9, 2013
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Tracy Hightshoe, Staff Member of Housing and Community Development Commission
Re: Recommendation from Housing and Community Development Commission
At their March 7, 2013 meeting the Housing and Community Development Commission made the
following recommendations to the City Council:
Motion to recommend approval of the ICHA Housing Choice Voucher Administrative Plan and
Admissions and Continued Occupancy Plan with one modification: Burglary in the 2nd degree be
changed to Burglary in the 3`d degree or higher (non- automotive related). Approved 8 -0.
Consideration of this recommendation was placed on the April 23 City Council agenda.
Motion to approve FY14 CDBG /HOME budget recommendation to City Council with the following
stipulations: if the final HOME /CDBG budget is reduced by no more than 10 %, each application
will be reduced pro -rata. If the budget increases by no more than 10% each application will be
increased pro -rata up to their initial funding request. If the final budget decreases /increases by
more than 10 %, HCDC will reconsider their recommendation. Approved 8 -0.
Consideration of this recommendation will be placed on the May 14 City Council agenda.
Additional action (check one)
No further action needed
Board or Commission is requesting Council direction
X Agenda item will be prepared by staff for Council action
S:RECform.doc
MINUTES APPROVED
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
MARCH 7, 2013 — 6:30 PM
IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY, MEETING ROOM A,
123 S. LINN STREET
MEMBERS PRESENT: Andrew Chappell, Michelle Bacon Curry, Scott Dragoo, Charles
Drum, Holly Jane Hart, Rachel Zimmermann Smith, Cheryll
Clamon, Jim Jacobson
MEMBERS ABSENT: None.
STAFF PRESENT: Tracy Hightshoe, Jeff Vanatter, Steve Long, Doug Ongie, Steve
Rackis
OTHERS PRESENT: Courtney Callahan, Stefan Duran, Levi Lynott, Kaleb Hays,
Danielle Wilde, Jake Richter, San Stewart, Casey Levigne,
Barbara Vinograde, Mike Kaolzills, Kari Wilken, Roger Lusala,
Bruce Teague, Maryann Dennis, Ron Berg
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
Motion to recommend approval of the ICHA Housing Choice Voucher Administrative Plan and
Admissions and Continued Occupancy Plan with one modification: Burglary in the 2nd degree be
changed to Burglary in the 3`d degree or higher (non- automotive related). Approved 8 -0.
Motion to approve FY14 CDBG /HOME budget recommendation to City Council with the
following stipulations: if the final HOME /CDBG budget is reduced by no more than 10 %, each
application will be reduced pro -rata. If the budget increases by no more than 10% each
application will be increased pro -rata up to their initial funding request. If the final budget
decreases /increases by more than 10 %, HCDC will reconsider their recommendation.
Approved 8 -0.
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
MARCH 7, 2013
PAGE 2 of 6
Housing
FY14Funding
Request
HCDC3.7 -13
Recommendation
CHARM Homes
$61,(50
$61,M0
City of Iowa City - Owner- occupied Rehab
$300,000
$300,000
TH F CH DO Operating
$23,250
$22,000
3 Diamond Development
$350,000
$0
Housing Total
$734,900
$353,650
Public Facilties
I owa City Fagade
$50,000
$0
I C Free Med
$85,371
$20,000
Mayor's Youth Emp. Program
$114,270
$70,000
MECCA
$50,645
$23,850
NC)C Playground
$55,000
$55,000
Sudanese Amercian Community Services
$50,000
$0
Public Facilties Total
$405,256
$165,850
Total Requested
$1,140,156
$552,500
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by Chair Andrew Chappell at 6:30 p.m.
APPROVAL OF JANUARY 3 & 17. 2013 MINUTES:
Zimmermann Smith moved to approve the minutes of January 3, 2013.
Drum seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 8 -0.
Clamon moved to approve the minutes of January 17, 2013, with one correction.
Jacobson seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 8 -0.
PUBLIC COMMENT FOR ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
Chappell announced that Gatlin resigned from the Commission.
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
MARCH 7, 2013
PAGE 3 of 6
STAFF /COMMISSION COMMENT:
None.
MONITORING REPORTS:
Dragoo reported MECCA's progress - it will have an invoice to the City by the end of March to
close out the project.
Dragoo reported on Habitat for Humanity acquisition and rehab of home on Nevada using
CDBG funds estimated at $32,000. The home will be finished in May. Another home was
identified on Franklin St. with the closing in late March. Habitat is negotiating home purchase on
Lower Muscatine, should be finalized in the next 90 days. Property in Industrial Park acquired
and rehabilitated. A certificate of occupancy issued this month.
Zimmermann Smith will report on the Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County at the next
meeting.
DISCUSSION REGARDING FY14 CDBG AND HOME FUNDING REQUESTS:
Staff stated the funding amount available was reduced by approximately 5% due to anticipated
sequestration of federal programs. At this time, this is only an estimate and it is not final.
Hightshoe confirmed $341,800 must be spent on housing, CHDO funds are a HOME eligible
expense, however does not get spent directly on housing but for operational funds for the
management and ongoing operations of housing providers. Only certified community housing
development organizations are eligible for these funds. The max. amount that can be allocated
is 5% of the HOME entitlement. Hightshoe explained CDBG - eligible projects and reported on
the status of the 3 Diamond's project and the existing Council resolution of support for this
project.
Commission discussed 3 Diamond's request, mixed support due to discussion of need, funding
and an out -of -town developer. Agreement to recommend no allocation.
Commission discussed Charm Homes' request, supported full funding of $61,650 without 3
Diamond's allocation.
Commission discussed City of Iowa City's request for $300,000, supported full funding.
Commission discussed The Housing Fellowship's request, supported funding at full amount (up
to 5% of HOME entitlement).
Commission discussed Sudanese American Community Services'request for funding and
partnership with Habitat for Humanity, acquisition of a site in question. Agreement to
recommend no allocation.
Commission discussed MECCA's request, agreed to recommend partial funding.
Commission discussed Broadway Neighborhood Center's request, support for full funding of
$55,000.
Commission discussed Downtown Fagade Project's request, funding not supported
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
MARCH 7, 2013
PAGE 4 of 6
Commission discussed Mayor's Youth, agreed to recommend partial request.
Commission discussed Iowa City Free Medical Clinic's request, agreed to recommend partial
funding.
Motion by Bacon Curry. Second by Zimmermann Smith to approve the FY14 CDBG /HOME
budget recommendation (below) to City Council with the following stipulations: if the final
HOME /CDBG budget is reduced by no more than 10 %, each application will be reduced pro -
rata. If the budget increases by no more than 10% each application will be increased pro -rata
up to their initial funding request. If the final budget decreases /increases by more than 10 %,
HCDC will reconsider their recommendation.
Vote was taken and the motion carried 8 -0.
FY14 HCDC Recommendation
Housing
FY14 Funding
Request
HCDC 3 -7 -13
Recommendation
CHARM Homes
$61,650
$61,650
City of Iowa City - Owner-occupied Rehab
$300,000
$300,000
THE CHDO Operating
$23,250
$22,000
3 Diamond Development
$350,000
$0
Housing Total
$734,900
$383,650
Public Facilities
Iowa City Fa ade
$50,000
$0
IC Free Med
$85,371
$20,000
Mayor's Youth Em p. Program
$114,270
$70,000
MECCA
$50,645
$23,850
NCJC Playground
- $55,000
$55,000
Sudanese American Community Services
$50,000
$0
Public Facilities Total
$405,286
$168,850
Total Requested
$1,140,186
$552,500
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
MARCH 7, 2013
PAGE 5 of 6
REVIEW UPDATES AND AMENDMENTS TO THE ICHA'S HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHER
(HCV) ADMINISTRATIVE PLAN AND ACOP:
Rackis, ICHA, presented updates and amendments to the Plan. Zimmermann Smith
questioned why the plan did not cover burglary in the 3`d degree or higher. Rackis explained the
types of crime that resulted in denials of assistance.
Motion by Jacobson, second by Hart to recommend approval of the ICHA Housing Choice
Voucher Administrative Plan and Admissions and Continued Occupancy Plan with one
modification: Burglary in the 2nd degree be changed to Burglary in the 3rd degree or higher (non -
automotive related).
A vote was taken and the motion carried 8 -0.
ADJOURNMENT:
Drum moved to adjourn.
Dragoo seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 8 -0.
z
0
O
U
Z
w
d
0
J
w
W
O
U
o�
QN(O
C7 o
Lu
Z =(p
=2a
Z
O
N
O
V
F-
Z
w
2
CL
0
w
w
O
Z
O
V
D
z
a
c�
z
N
O
O
O
u
w
Ir
w
U
Z
Q
D
Z
w
N
Q
M
r
0
N
N
0
N
M
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
LU
X
X
X
r
X
X
X
0
0
X
X
X
0
X
X
X
0
x X
X
X
0
o
X
x
X
X
0
X
x
X
N
vs
x
X
x
X
X
X
X
X
co
Z
x
X
X
0
X
X
0
X
0
x
x
x
x
0
x
x
x
0
V-
x
o
O
O
X
x
X
X
x
C4
x
x
ui
o
x
x
x
x
x
x
M
co
M
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
x
a.
x
v
LO
It
M
M
U')
M
v
LO
w
o
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
w
0)
rn
rn
rn
rn
am
rn
rn
M
w
J
J
w
V
w
J
z LU
H
>
z
Q
2
r
V
w
O
4
J
'
N
Z
V
w
V
Z
to
=
V
O
O
N
J
w
0
a
:3
X
i=
p
W
w=
z
m
U
0
a
0
a
z
N�
v
L�
W d
c
dQQz
II II II II
w
la) x000
IOWA CITY
PUBLIC LIBRARY
123 S. Linn St. • Iowa City, IA 52240
over Sown Cratg.w�*r 319-35!5200-w 319.356-5494.ww kof.org
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
March 28, 2013
FINAL APPROVED
5�
Members Present: Holly Carver, Thomas Dean, Mark Edwards, Thomas Martin, Mary New, Robin
Paetzold, Meredith Rich - Chappell, Jay Semel.
Members Absent: Linzee McCray.
Staff Present: Maeve Clark, Susan Craig, Kara Logsden, Anne Mangano, Patty McCarthy, Elyse
Miller, Vickie Pasicznyuk.
Guests Present: None.
Call Meeting to Order. President Rich - Chappell called the meeting to order at 5:04 pm.
Public Discussion. None.
Approval of Minutes. The minutes of the regular meeting of February, 28, 2013 were reviewed.
A motion to approve the minutes of the February meeting was made by New and seconded by
Carver. Motion carried 8/0.
Unfinished Business. None.
New Business:
Library Board Policy #814, Copyright Policy. Craig said that the two cornerstones of librarianship
are copyright and intellectual freedom. These can often result in uncomfortable conversations
with patrons as staff explain why they can't just show any DVD in the meeting room or use
images from library materials. Staff reviewed and revised the policy. A major change is revising
the permission needed to record a storytime. Research has shown our previous, very onerous,
practice, is not standard. A motion to approve Copyright Policy #814 as revised by staff was
made by Semel and seconded by Martin. Motion carried 8/0.
Digital History Initiative. Anne Mangano presented a first look at ICPL's digital history initiative.
We received a grant from the Noon Lions Club and Johnson County Historical Society (JCHS)
that enables us to digitize materials and put them in our collection. We'll begin with a few
collections of images we received from JCHS: Iowa City Centennial celebration, downtown at
night in the 1950's, and urban renewal. Currently, we are building the web site for these images
which will be searchable. We hope to roll this out in May. Rich Chappell asked how collections to
digitize are selected. Mangano said JCHS identified the first group. Going forward, we will treat
this like any other collection and have a collection plan for it. Todd Brown, Candice Smith and
Melody Dworak have been working on this project and we are hiring a summer intern to help.
Staff Reports.
Director's Report. Craig officially reported the retirement of Hal Penick on June 30, 2013. Last
week Craig attended the Public Library Directors' Symposium presented by Innovative Interfaces,
our integrated library system provider. Our vendor has a new president and is not privately held
anymore; Craig wanted to see how these changes would affect us.
Departmental Reports:
Adult Services. In response to a question about how ICPL was selected to be one of the 50
libraries participating in the Civil War 150 traveling exhibit, we wrote a successful grant. The
exhibit will be on first floor in the open space and the grand opening is April 25, 2013 from
7:00 to 9:00 pm. During this time we will have some music in the exhibit area.
Community and Access Services. No comments.
Development Office. McCarthy said we received a commitment from ACT and we are closer to
our goal for the Better Building, Better Service campaign. This year is the 10th anniversary of
Building the Collection. The event will be held at hotelVetro on May 5, 2013.
Spotlight on the Collection. No comments.
Miscellaneous. No comments.
President's Report.
There are three Board openings beginning July 1, 2013. Holly Carver, Mary New, and Jay Semel's
terms will end on June 30, 2013. Applications are due on April 17, 2013 to the City Clerk's office.
Announcements from Members.
Martin reported on the Legislative Lobby Day in Des Moines.
Committee Reports.
Foundation Members. No meeting.
Communications. Lindell email. No discussion.
Disbursements.
The Visa expenditures for February 2013 were reviewed. A motion to approve the disbursements
for February 2013 was made by New and seconded by Martin. Motion carried 8/0.
Set Agenda Order for April Meeting.
Volunteer recognition, 4/24 at 6:30 pm.
Adjournment. A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Martin and seconded by
Edwards. Motion carried 8/0. President Rich - Chappell adjourned the meeting at 5:40 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Elyse Miller
z O O X ;11�
m II II
u u y
Za-
p s CD (D
3 (D
M
x
c
(A
CD
Q.
L
70
5.
2
Z
CD
O
a)
>v
O
or
S
fDD
=
o
Q
_
0-
N
Ol
ON
0)
rn
m
m
Ol
ON
m
m-1
W
W
W
X
W
W
W
W
W
W
�
O
11
O
1
F�
Fl
F�
N
F"
,may
w
\I
\I
w
cn
\i
ui
ui
w
o
X
O
X
O
X
X
X
X
X
N
m
m
w
3
N
v
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O
m
o\NO
\
H
w
X
X
X
X
O
X
X
X
X
ui
I-
m
N
Do
\
r
w
W
F\+
W
LnN
N
W
F\+
W
N
r
W
N
Ln
r
w
N
N
I.,
w
N
r
W
H
NJ
N
r
N
r
hi
N
r
N
r
�D
F\+
W
n a
m m
z
X
M m
7X0 m
n
00
w�
v
w
O
0)
Q.
O
9
n
O
3
O
w
n
V
r
W
O
sv
C.
O
H
rF
ID
fD
N
5b(5)
MINUTES APPROVED
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
MARCH 13, 2013
ROBERT A. LEE COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER — MEETING ROOM B
Members Present: Clay Claussen, David Bourgeois, Maggie Elliott, Allie Gnade,
Cara Hamann, Alex Taylor, John Westefeld, Joe Younker
Members Absent: Lucie Laurian
Staff Present: Mike Moran, Chad Dyson, Terry Robinson
Others Present: Brandon Hofstra, Jeannette Chadek Fulton, Mike K., Del
Holland, Sue Bryant, Connie Peterson, Jeff Schabilion
CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Claussen called the meeting to order at 5 p.m.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate
Council action):
None
OTHER FORMAL ACTION TAKEN:
Taylor noted a change in the February 13, 2013 minutes. It was written that Taylor was
in charge of the upcoming Fun Runs. While Taylor is involved, he is not in charge of
this activity.
Moved by Elliott seconded by Gnade, to approve the February 13, 2013 minutes
as amended. Motion passed 8 -0 with Laurian being absent.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
None
DOGPAC INRODUCTION & DISCUSSION:
Commission Member David Bourgeois introduced Sue Bryant, President of DogPAC
and Connie Peterson, DogPAC Board member, to the commission. Susan thanked
the commission for letting them come and speak to the group. She stated that they
feel very blessed to have two dog parks in Iowa City. Susan distributed their strategic
plan to the commission highlighting a couple of the items. She stated that there have
been a number of discussions regarding concerns of signage at the parks. The board
does not want them to take on the look of an athletic field. DogPAC would like to work
with the commission to create the parameters for signage further stating that the public
considers the dog parks as parks and not sports fields. The second item highlighted
was that DogPAC wants to work with staff and commission in creating a priority list for
the dog parks. Susan noted that DogPAC would like to do a customer survey to
determine what users of the parks want, what they think is important and where are
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
March 13, 2013
Page 2 of 6
their priorities. Susan and Connie would like to come back to the commission to follow
up on the plan. Susan will request to be put on the agenda at that time.
Moran noted that instead of a contract between DogPAC and Parks & Recreation,
there will be instead a memorandum of understanding written between the two entities
as done with other affiliate groups. Moran will bring a draft of that to commission in the
next month or two.
CHADEK PROPERTY
Claussen welcomed the Chadek family and friends to the meeting. He noted that he
and Moran met with Tom Markus, City Manager and also with City Attorney Eleanor
Dilkes. The City is not able to purchase property for more than it is assessed. They
then met with Dave Minehart with the Friends of Chadek Property to let him know that
the friends would have to raise the funds prior to the City coming to an agreement.
Moran will maintain contact with all involved and update commission monthly. He will
also check on the availability of CDBG funding regulations and possibilities.
NEIGHBORHOOD OPEN SPACE REVIEW:
None
RECREATION DIVISION REPORT:
Dyson reminded commission of his discussion with them in February regarding
recreation facility access and creating a sign /banner policy for sports fields /parks.
Recreation Facility Access: Dyson reported that staff would like to start this process
with summer registration and begin enforcement when school starts in the fall. This will
be implemented at both the Robert A. Lee Community Recreation Center and Mercer
Park Aquatic Center /Scanlon Gymnasium. Westefeld asked if someone comes to
center without an ID will they be turned away. Dyson said they will not and that cards
can be issued on site. He also reported that the bar codes on these ID's will allow for
better tracking and statistics of center uses etc. Younkers asked what the policy will be
for children under 11. Dyson reported they are allowed in with an adult. Elliott asked if
Dyson has spoken with other recreational facilities that are using a similar system. He
said that North Liberty is the closest in using the same system, however, they only use
it as a walking /running track pass. Dyson said it is important to note that this system is
not to deny access but is to allow tracking, provide safety, and to create a database to
market our services.
Moved by Elliott. seconded by Taylor, that the Iowa City Parks and Recreation
Department implement a proposal for an ActiveNet pass system for Recreation
Center access. Motion pass 8 -0 with Laurian being absent.
Sian /Banner Policy: Dyson reported that the Parks and Recreation Department has
been approached by several affiliate groups who wish to, as a part of their fundraising
campaigns, offer sponsorships via signage /banners that would be placed at the
facilities they use. At this time city code does not allow for this on a semi - temporary
basis in private businesses, however, it does not address public space. Therefore, the
department has been asked to draft a policy that would address this. The department
proposes that seasonal banners, as they relate to athletic complexes, may be placed
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
March 13, 2013
Page 3 of 6
with the approval of the Director or designee. If approved, the banners would be
placed in an orderly fashion and in a location designated by the department. Signage
would only be allowed during the current season and must be removed at the end of
said season.
Discussion ensued. Westefeld asked if this would also include the dog park. Moran
said it would not and asked Dog PAC board members present to bring their
recommendations to the April meeting. Moran does not anticipate anything allowed in
the parks unless it is for a one -day event. Elliott noted that when the commission has
discussed signage such as this in the past there were more specifics, where this
seems to be somewhat open ended. Dyson agreed but also said that the policy may
be expanded upon if necessary. Peterson from DogPAC asked if this is to increase
revenue. Dyson said that essentially that is the case and that this revenue would help
in paying for improvements to facilities as well as provide affiliate groups with the
money needed to pay for facility rental fees. Taylor asked how a season is identified,
as it can be very open ended. For example, soccer can run from early spring to late
fall. Dyson said that the policy would specify the dates allowed. Younker and Taylor
discussed concerns about limitations and what can the City legally regulate. Gnade
asked Dyson to give an example of what would be included on these banners. Dyson
noted that it would be advertising for the sponsors. He also noted that the money paid
to hang these signs would be given to the affiliate group, not the City. Younker also
noted a need for limited number of signs permitted at one time per facility.
Gnade expressed her concerns stating that it is her feeling that signage at a park
dictates ownership. She further stated that parks are public property and should be
protected as such. She feels that parks should be considered screen free areas and
that children are already constantly inundated with advertising all around them. She
said that parks should be considered an oasis from home and are precious. Banners
form walls and block views of the green spaces and skies and banners should be used
as a last resort in fundraising. She closed by stating that there are plenty of other
sources available for advertising and that the parks are one place that should be
without it.
Younker noted that he is sensitive to Gnade's concerns. He asked that the policy be
more specific by addressing issues such as placement, numbers, size issues, etc.
before he would feel comfortable in making a recommendation.
Gnade talked of other sources such as plaques in front of trees or on benches, or
bricks etc., which she feels would be much more aesthetically appropriate. Robinson
asked about situations where there is a celebration, such as a class reunion, that may
want to hang a banner. How will these be handled? Gnade feels that this is a
celebration, not an advertisement and would be more acceptable.
Haman suggested that perhaps there needs to be different policies for different
locations. Also suggested that it should be tested at one site prior to moving on to
others.
Claussen summarized that it appears that it is necessary for the commission to have
more information before making a motion. Dyson will go back and include these
suggested parameters. Westefeld thanked Gnade for her excellent comments.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
March 13, 2013
Page 4 of 6
PARKS DIVISION REPORT:
Robinson announced that an additional shelter will be put up at Mercer Park. This
additional shelter will be placed between the existing shelter and the Mercer Park
Aquatic Center. The shelter will be delivered the week of April 1.
Robinson is working on getting an irrigation system into both of the dog parks. The
water lines have been established just outside the fencing with the next step being to
extend inside fenced areas and around buildings.
The plans and specs for shelter #6 at City Park have been sent out to the public for
viewing. This shelter will replace the existing shelter. The new shelter will be 42' x 72'.
Robinson noted that this will be a very attractive shelter with a steel frame and will
have some unique architectural features such as stone columns and metal posts.
Robinson announced that there has been some slight flooding in City Park because of
the recent rainfall and the frozen ground.
The Fairmeadows restrooms will be installed at a time to coincide with the construction
of the splash pad.
DIRECTORS REPORT:
TTRA: Construction continues inside the lodge. Moran expects it to be very near
completion at the end of May with a grand opening celebration being planned for the
weekend of August 24 & 25. Fin and Feather are ready to begin their concession
contract at the marina. Unfortunately the weather has caused quite a delay with the
lake being so low etc. They hope to be in during the fish drop which is scheduled for
April 13. Moran also noted that an alcohol policy for this facility, as well as Ashton
House, should be ready for commission review in April or May.
Master Plan: Moran contacted Greenplay for an estimate of updating our current plan
( Greenplay was consultant for the initial plan). Their fee was estimated between
$60,000- $85,000 which is too high. Moran will take a look at other bids that were
submitted five years ago and contact a couple of them for estimates as well.
Ashton House: The contract has been cut for the architect. Moran will be presenting
the plans to Historic Preservation. They have already approved the changes /updates
but would like to see the plans. If anyone is interested, the PowerPoint presentation
can be shared with the commission.
Normandy Drive Neicthborhood: Moran will be meeting with this neighborhood on April
3, 2013 to discuss their concerns about a secondary access road into City Park. There
is one resident of this neighborhood that would like garden plots put in in the
Normandy Drive area. No other neighbors are interested at this time.
Downtown District: The Downtown District, City Transportation Services, and the
Parks and Recreation Central Business District staff will be collaborating to provide an
ambassador program in the downtown district. The idea is to provide more personal
service to the community.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
March 13, 2013
Page 5 of 6
Pedestrian Mall Redesign: Moran noted that five companies have submitted RFP's for
this project. The work should be starting some time in mid to late summer. This will be
done in a two to three phase process.
Fairmeadows Splash Pad: This project is on track. Will be near completion by May 1st
opening on Memorial Day weekend.
David Bourgeois exited the meeting at 6:15 p.m.
CHAIRS REPORT
Claussen attended a planning and zoning public session for the Riverfront Crossings
area. He is excited about the prospects of this district.
Claussen noted that it was a privilege to take part in the Wellmark Three Point Play
presentation of the check for Parks and Recreation at a recent Iowa Basketball Game.
COMMISSION TIME /SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS:
Westefeld commended staff for their continued everyone on all of the
accomplishments of both the staff on all of the ongoing and new projects.
Taylor stated that he will be meeting again with the running group to discuss the fun
runs, which is a series of runs at the end of summer and early fall.
Younker has been asked by a couple of community members about the possibility of
lighting being added to running trails. Moran stated that this will be incorporated as
part of the master plan update.
ADJOURNMENT:
Moved by Taylor, seconded by Elliott, to adjourn the meeting at 6:23 p.m.
Motion passed 7 -0 with Bourgeois & Laurian being absent.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
March 13, 2013
Page 6 of 6
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
NAME
N
N
N
N
N
N
r
M
M
M
r
r
e
M
T-
O
T-
Lo
r
r
�_
N
r
�
Cl)
r
Cl)
TERM
EXPIRES
EXPIRES
I
`c
ti
°D
CD
°
r
`�
N
r-
r
1/1/15
X
X
X
X
LQ
X
LQ
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
Bourgeois
Clay
1/1/14
X
X
X
X
LQ
X
LQ
X
X
X
X
X
Claussen
Maggie
1/1/13
X
X
X
O/E
LQ
X
LQ
X
X
X
X
X
Elliott
Allison
1/1/14
O/E
X
X
X
LQ
X
LQ
X
X
X
X
X
Gnade
Cara
1/1/16
X
X
X
X
LQ
X
LQ
X
X
X
X
X
Hamann
Aaron
1/1/13
O
O
O **
X
LQ
X
LQ
O
O
Krohmer
Lucie
1/1/15
X
X
X
O/E
LQ
X
LQ
X
X
O/E
O/E
O/E
Laurian
Alex
1/1/16
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
X
X
X
Taylor
John
1/1/14
X
O/E
X
X
LQ
X
LQ
X
X
X
X
X
Westefeld
Joe
1/1/16
X
O/E
X
X
LQ
X
LQ
X
X
X
X
X
Younker
KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting LQ = No meeting due to lack of quorum
* = Not a member at this time
5b��)
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
APRIL 1 — 5:15 PM — INFORMAL
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
APPROVED
MEMBERS PRESENT: Carolyn Stewart Dyer, Charlie Eastham, Phoebe Martin, Paula
Swygard, John Thomas, Tim Weitzel
MEMBERS ABSENT: Anne Freerks
STAFF PRESENT: Bob Miklo, John Yapp, Sarah Walz, Sarah Greenwood Hektoen
OTHERS PRESENT:
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
None.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 5:15 PM.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA:
There was none.
Rezoning Item
REZ13- 00009: Discussion of an application submitted by Rockne Cole, Jon Fogarty and
Mark McCallum for a rezoning from Public (P -1) zone to Central Business Support (CB -5)
zone for approximately 0.38 -acres of property located at the northeast corner of Gilbert
and College Streets.
Yapp explained to the Commission that he helped coordinate the Request for Proposals (RFPs)
for the City for the subject property, and because of his familiarity with that project, he prepared
the staff report.
He said that the subject property is currently zoned Public (P) and owned by the City. He said
the RFP process resulted in nine development proposals, which were culled down to three
finalists before the Council chose The Chauncey. He said Planning Is currently in negotiations
for a development agreement with the developer and had anticipated applying for a rezoning to
Central Business (CB -10) once that agreement was largely accepted. He said the main
distinction between the Central Business Support (CB -5) and CB -10 zone is height limitation.
Yapp explained that for the CB -5 zone the limit is seventy -five feet, which is approximately a six
story building, while the CB -10 zone does not have a strict height limitation, but does have a
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 1, 2013 - Informal
Page 2 of 6
floor to area ratio requirement of ten or up to fifteen with bonus provisions. He explained what
the zones were immediately bordering the subject property.
Yapp said in evaluating this application to CB -5, staffs conclusion was that the subject property
has characteristics which would make it appropriate for CB -5 or CB -10. He explained all the
characteristics that are written into the Comprehensive Plan and the Downtown /Riverfront
Crossings Plan that made it appropriate for the CB -10 zoning. Yapp said staff recommendation
is to recommend against CB -5 zoning with the eventual goal of applying for CB -10 zoning.
Eastham asked if Yapp could expand upon the idea that there is a functional transition here that
would actually accomplish whatever transition areas are supposed to accomplish. Yapp said he
thinks of a transition area as stepping down in zoning and intensity from a higher intensity area
to a lower one. He said staff looked at the fact that an existing 475 space parking facility is to
the east of the subject property and there's additional Central Business Service (CB -2) zoning to
the east side of that parking ramp and to the east side of Van Buren Street for the transition
from the residential zone to the east.
Eastham said he understands what zones are there and said what he wants to know is the
purpose of a transition zone and how either the CB -5 or the CB -10 zoning accomplish that
purpose. He asked if the sole measure of transition zoning is that there's some other zoning on
each side of it. Greenwood Hektoen said she thinks that's a good question for Thursday
because many people are interested in that discussion.
Eastham said he thinks that the other aspect at play here is that the recently adopted Riverfront
Crossing /Downtown Development Plan talks about at some length about preserving historic
buildings. He says from this staff report it seems to say that the only strategies necessary to
preserve our historic buildings is that they are not redeveloped. He said there might be other
things that affect whether or not a historic building is able to functionally maintain itself as a
historic building. He asked Yapp to comment on that, particularly since there is a historic
building directly to the west of the subject property.
Swygard said the staff report talks about the shadow effect, focusing on the park. She said it
mentions that shadow studies were done. She said would like to see the shadow studies that
were done on surrounding buildings. Yapp said shadow studies were done on the three final
proposals that Council considered. Martin asked upon which buildings they considered the
shadow affects. Yapp said the impetus for that was on Trinity Church. Swygard asked if any of
the studies were directed to the east. Yapp said they were. Swygard asked to have that
information made available to the Commission.
Thomas said they don't have any information on what the shadow affects would be of a CB -5
building. He said he would like to see what the effects of a CB -5 building would be. He said the
shadow affects were studied at the minimum and maximum elevations of the seasons, the
winter and summer, and he would like to see it at the midpoint because there's wide variation in
terms of sun elevation throughout the year. He said what they are seeing from the existing
studies are the two extremes from during the year. Yapp said the City does not have the
technology to develop shadow studies. Thomas said that given how important this project is,
they need to have that information.
Swygard said if the argument for or against any proposal is the shadow affect, she feels she
needs more information. Eastham concurred with Swygard's statement.
Weitzel asked if there was a fourth person interested in this kind of study. Dyer said she is.
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 1, 2013 - Informal
Page 3 of 6
Thomas proposed starting at 7:00 a.m. and continuing the study at 10:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and
4:00 p.m.
Yapp said the studies he has did 7:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m. and 5:00
p.m. Thomas said that would be fine. He asked for a bigger picture of the subject transition
zone.
Swygard said she wants to see the residential zones from the east from the parking ramp
marked out clearly.
Thomas said in the staff report there is a mention of the properties in the Downtown Planning
District and his understanding is with the update, Iowa City 2030, there is a discussion of having
a redevelopment plan for study done, with whatever that comes out of that being folded into the
Central District Plan.
Miklo explained that the reason staff suggested that those areas might be added to the Central
District is that the Downtown District does not automatically require design review for multi-
family infill buildings. Therefore staff suggested that the areas that are not currently covered by
the Downtown Plan or the Central District Plan be added to the Central District to assure design
review.
Eastham asked if the Commission is going to look at the design of the proposed building at
College and Gilbert Streets. Miklo replied that if this comes back before the Commission as a
CB -10 zone, those are conditions that can be considered with the possibility of a Conditional
Zoning Agreement.
Eastham said he would like staffs comments about why we are doing anything with zoning in
those areas now when the overall plan is to have a more detailed study about what to do with
zoning in those areas. Miklo said staffs concerns are that these areas are likely to develop
without any sort of guidelines. In the case of the subject property it is zoned P but the City has
determined that it is not needed for City purposes and there was interest from private
developers so that the decision was made to handle the property through the RFP process.
Eastham asked what the Commission's role is with this application. Greenwood Hektoen said
they would consider whether the zoning request is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan as
they would do with any other zoning request. Eastham asked if he was correct in that he doesn't
have to consider the Council's RFP. Greenwood Hektoen said that is correct.
Thomas said he would like to know what the building height is on the Gilbert Street side, so he
will have an idea what seventy-five feet would mean on Gilbert Street.
Eastham said he would appreciate staffs comments on any other areas where CB -10 zoning
occurs other than in the Central Business District, and he would like that to be noted in the staff
report.
Thomas said he wants to bring in any information from the Riverfront Crossings Plan that
speaks to the question of building height. He said that would pertain to development standards
or the recommended building heights with the proposed development. He said he thinks that
ties to the concept of transition.
Eastham said he is struggling with the notion of the recently established Riverfront Crossings
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 1, 2013 - Informal
Page 4 of 6
and Downtown Districts and the emphasis in those locations for much more dense uses in
higher buildings and how planning for uses in those are superseded by or complementary to the
Riverfront Crossings and Downtown District Plan. He wants to know how those recent planning
efforts fit in with the current situation at Gilbert and College Streets.
Thomas said he wants to know how this plan for a twenty story building reflects the more
general thrust of the Downtown / Riverfront Crossings Plan as being in a more southern direction.
He said he's not aware of any discussion that the CB -10 character should be moving east.
Swygard said that in going over map after map it's obvious as mentioned in the staff report, that
the downtown is bordered on Gilbert Street. Miklo explained that the CB -10 zone has
traditionally been the Center Business District zone, and that stops at Gilbert Street. He said the
Downtown District for planning purposes extends further east, north and south. He said the CB-
2, CB -5 and CB -10 zones are all downtown zones.
Dyer wants to know why the City has a Planning and Zoning Commission or why this doesn't
come here first. Miklo asked if she is asking in terms of the RFP. She said she was, and dealing
with rezoning after the decision has already been made that what's going to be there is going to
be in that zone. Greenwood Hektoen said it hasn't been rezoned yet, so it's still a question for
the Commission to consider and for Council to consider.
Thomas said the Ryan proposal could be used as an example of a CB -5 building for the shadow
study. He said he would like to see the Fall and Spring equinox in the shadow study.
Comprehensive Plan Item
Public hearing on an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan to adopt an update to Iowa
City's Comprehensive Plan: "Iowa City 2030."
Walz said they have made some changes to this Plan based on feedback at the last meeting,
and she handed out the changes to the Commission. She explained that she is adding Hazard
Mitigation Risks to a sidebar that lists all the components of the Comprehensive Plan. She said
in response to Eastham's request she had eliminated the word "lure" in two places. She said
she had added a brief statement after public safety and how that's part of good neighborhood
planning. She explained how she has strengthened the portion regarding continuing to track,
measure and reduce energy consumption and greenhouse emissions. She said that in her
research she found no derogatory connotations to the term "workforce housing ". She said she
could only find the term "workforce" in the economic development section of the plan and it did
not refer to housing but developing the workforce.
Walz said there has been a call from both the Commission and some people in the community
for more concrete steps and measures regarding achieving sustainability. She said once Brenda
Nations has completed her report the City will have clear measures of where we are and what is
possible, and as a result of that assessment the City can set clear goals and steps to attain
sustainability. She said the things that lead to sustainability are already written into City Code,
things like walkability, complete streets in every subdivision, and the use of mass transit. She
said commercial development is spread throughout the city so there is access for the
neighborhoods.
Thomas said he thought the walkability is the best indicator of all sorts of measures. He said
that we do need to measure the goals set forth in the Plan.
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 1, 2013 - Informal
Page 5 of 6
Eastham said that measuring lets them know what is actually happening, even if it not what the
Plan calls for, but they have to know whether it is or isn't happening. Walz said that is what
Nations is doing at present.
Thomas said having the measures may promote cooperation between agencies. He said we are
all one community and these things do all fold together in establishing quality of life. He said
measuring gives them a better idea of where they need to focus.
Eastham said he is not satisfied with a part of the Plan that designates the College /Gilbert
Street parcel for Commercial Development within the new Plan. Miklo said the reason for the
change is that the Council has decided that the property is going to be sold. Miklo said three
blocks, with the exception of the subject corner, are shown as Public. Eastham said the borders
on the east side are shown as mixed uses. Miklo said that is based on the previous
Comprehensive Plan which was based on the uses that are there. Eastham said perhaps he
should note that Commercial doesn't mean CB -10.
Development Item
SUB13- 00007: Discussion of an application submitted by S&J Development for a
preliminary plat of Country Club Estates 4 -7 Additions, a 67 -lot, 51.08 acre residential
subdivision located west of Lake Shore Drive.
Miklo explained that this application has expired, as all preliminary plats do after two years. He
said there haven't been significant changes in zoning regulations since this application expired
for this part of the city. He said the plan before the Commission is almost the same plan that
was approved before. He showed the Commission the changes that were made. He explained
that the reasons for the staff's concerns are that the corner lot will have streets on three sides,
which isn't very desirable, and another house has a street in front and in back of it. He said the
subdivision Codes try to discourage that. Staff is recommending approval of this application.
OTHER
ADJOURNMENT:
Swygard moved to adjourn.
Thomas seconded.
The meeting was adjourned on a 6 -0 vote.
Z
_O
� Q
O
O U
O � o
W
Z Z N
r
N O N
ad W
o �
Z
Z Q
Z
Q
J
a
T-
NXXXXXXX
CO)
MLIJ
OXXxXXx
c4xXxxxOx
NXXXXXXX
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
;xxxxxxx
oxxxxxx
NXXXXXXX
Lij
to
j
X
x
X
0
X
X
X
r
�Xxxxxxx
r
�
x
x
x
x
x
X
x
r
00
oXXXXXWX
O
oXXXXXXx
P
to
0)
�XXxXXX�
co
co0XXX0X0
0)
,xxxxxxx
ti
LO
LO
LO
Lc)
Lr5
in
LO
E,XXXXXX
0
0
0
0
0
Cl
-
w
LU
Li
CD
r
(D
P
r
r
tf)
P
LO
r
M
r
w (L
I-- X
to
o
U)
0
to
0
U-)
0
0
0
Ln
0
LA
0
W
0U4X
w
>-
z
uj
Ova
=�ZQNw
=ao�
Q
zwoujw
ow
N
ZawU.20F
Gift,
OCZQ4w
Q
N
QwyQQwa
2W
Z0WLL
a0H-
QXxpxxxx
NXxXXXXX
N
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
�LLJ
oxxxxxx
NXXXxOXX
Lij
M
Nxxxxxxx
r
o0xxxxx0
�0
0xxx0
�XxXXXXO
MXXXX0X0
ti
w0XXXXOO
;xxxxxxx
CD
NXXXXXXX
v
wCo0Mr�Lo0m
W
LO
LO
LO
Lc)
Lr5
in
LO
tea/
(
0
0
0
0
0
Cl
0
w
W
ZQZW4Z
0U4X
V
=�ZQNw
Q
zwoujw
ow
N
ZawU.20F
-3:
U �
w
aQ� �
Qz
n u n u
xooi
w
Y
CITY OF IOWA CITY 5
MEMORANDUM --
Date: April 19, 2013
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Bob Miklo, Staff Member of Planning & Zoning Commission
Re: Recommendations from Planning & Zoning Commission
At their April 4, 2013 meeting the Planning & Zoning Commission made the following
recommendations to the City Council:
The Commission voted 7 -0 to recommend approval of an amendment to the Comprehensive
Plan to adopt an update to Iowa City's Comprehensive Plan: "Iowa City 2030."
The Commission voted 7 -0 to recommend approval of SUB13 -00007 an application submitted
by S &J Development for a preliminary plat of Country Club Estates 4 -7 Additions, a 67 -lot,
51.08 acre residential subdivision located west of Lake Shore Drive.
Additional action (check one)
No further action needed
Board or Commission is requesting Council direction
X_ Agenda item will be prepared by staff for Council action
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
APRIL 4 — 7:00 PM — FORMAL
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
APPROVED
MEMBERS PRESENT: Carolyn Dyer, Charlie Eastham, Anne Freerks, Phoebe Martin,
Paula Swygard, John Thomas, Tim Weitzel
MEMBERS ABSENT: None.
STAFF PRESENT: Bob Miklo, John Yapp, Sarah Walz, Sarah Greenwood Hektoen
OTHERS PRESENT: Rockne Cole, Mark McCallum, Jon Fogarty, Nancy Quellhorst,
Louise Young, Mary Gravitt, Josh Schamber, Diane Machatka,
Peter Jordet, Erik Gidal, Elizabeth Michael, Amanda Van Horne,
Paul Hanley, Alan Swanson, Regenia Bailey, Bill Nusser, Jan
Palmer, Elsie Gauley Vega, Dhyana Kaufman, Ann Christenson,
Sonia Ebbinger, George Etre, Tim Connery, Philip Kemp, Perry
Lenz, Nancy Adams Cogan, Eric Johnson, Linda Fisher, Nancy
Carlson, Mary Murphy.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
The Commission voted 7 -0 to recommend approval of an amendment to the
Comprehensive Plan to adopt an update to Iowa City's Comprehensive Plan: "Iowa City
2030."
The Commission voted 7 -0 to recommend approval of SUB13 -00007 an application
submitted by S &J Development for a preliminary plat of Country Club Estates 4 -7
Additions, a 67 -lot, 51.08 acre residential subdivision located west of Lake Shore Drive.
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
REZ13- 00009: Discussion of an application submitted by Rockne Cole, Jon Fogarty and
Mark McCallum for a rezoning from Public (P -1) zone to Central Business Support (CB -5)
zone for approximately 0.38 -acres of property located at the northeast corner of Gilbert
and College Streets.
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 4, 2013 - Formal
Page 2 of 14
Yapp explained that the property is currently owned by the City, is zoned Public (P) and is in the
Downtown Planning District. He showed a view of the property, and, at the request of the
Commission, showed a large view of the zoning patterns in this part of the city. He said in staff's
opinion the zoning does step down in density as the zoning pattern moves east from this
property. He said that the Riverfront Crossings /Downtown Plan, while not specifically including
this parcel, does state that corner lots should be reserved for taller buildings and that new
development should be focused on lots that do not contain historic buildings and that mixed use
developments should be encouraged. He said that the current Comprehensive Plan states that
higher density development in the Downtown reduces pressure on the less dense surrounding
neighborhoods. He said the property has many characteristics consistent with either Central
Business Support (CB -5) or Central Business (CB -10) zoning as outlined in the staff report. He
said the site is close to arterial streets and several public buildings.
Yapp said staff feels that the property has several elements that make it more appropriate for
CB -10 zoning than for CB -5 zoning: the adjacency to existing CB -10 zoning; it is on a corner lot
and adjacent to a 475 space, 24 hour parking facility; CB -10 is more consistent with the larger
strategy of promoting a pedestrian- oriented downtown; the ability to add more to the mix of
destinations and residences downtown; and the ability to deliver a mixed use development,
which is emphasized in the Downtown Plan.
Yapp said they were able to mock up a shadow study, at the Commission's request, for a
generic CB -5 building. He showed shadow studies for both that and The Chauncey. He showed
the studies for various times of day and at the highest and lowest points of the sun during the
year. He said in staff's opinion the shadows are similar. He showed other months and times for
both buildings.
Yapp said that staff recommends denial of the request from the applicants. He said staff feels
that a CB -10 zoning is more appropriate given the characteristics of the property. He said staff
intends to apply for CB -10 zoning when an agreement to transfer to private ownership is more
imminent. He said until that time, staff feels that it's appropriate that the property remain zoned
Public (P).
Eastham asked Yapp if he is correct in that there is more of a shadow effect for a two- hundred
than a one - hundred foot building on the Trinity Church property to the west. Yapp said that all
other things being equal, he would agree. He said that the he believes the setback of the upper
floor of the building make a difference.
Eastham asked if there is some way to measure or to assess the effect of the shadowing from
either building on either the Trinity property or the park to the north. He asked if there being a
shadow would be a problem. Greenwood - Hektoen said she thought that was a subjective
question that's difficult for staff to answer.
Thomas asked when the CB -5 and CB -2 zonings were developed and how the building heights
and Floor Area Ratio (FAR) standards for those zones were developed. Miklo said the CB -2
zone was put in place in 1985 and allowed ten -story buildings at that time. He said reforms in
2005 reduced the height limit to four stories. He said the CB -5 was developed in the early 1990s
as a way of encouraging redevelopment south of Burlington Street and east of downtown.
Thomas asked if the two aforementioned zones were developed at the same time as the CB -10
zone. Miklo said the CB -10 zone has been in place since at least 1983.
Freerks asked if CB -2, CB -5 and CB -10 zonings have all had a number of changes. Miklo said
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 4, 2013 - Formal
Page 3 of 14
the only significant changes to the CB -10 zone have been some design guidelines for
storefronts and some requirements for parking for residential uses. He said he doesn't think the
CB -5 has changed significantly. He said the CB -2 zone had the change in height requirements.
Thomas asked why seventy -five feet was set as the height limit for the CB -5 zone. Miklo said he
would have to look at the files to get that information.
Freerks asked if there are bonus points available in CB -5 zone. Miklo said there are and the
Floor Area Ratio (FAR) can go up to five with streetscaping improvements and masonry
construction.
Freerks asked if there are any height restrictions in the CB -10 zone or if it's all about lot area.
Miklo said in zone has a maximum FAR of ten, but you can get a higher FAR by including things
the City wants to promote, such as Class A office space.
Swygard asked if this is in the Downtown District in the current Comprehensive Plan. Yapp said
it is. Swygard asked if in "IC 2030" it will remain in that district. Miklo said the draft document
indicates that that the area between Gilbert Street and College Green Park needs further study
and depending on that study may be added to the Central Planning District.
Eastham said that in the staff report it says that reducing development pressures on
surrounding near downtown neighborhood is one of the rationales that staff uses to support CB-
10 zoning for this parcel as opposed to CB -5. He asked if staff is going to propose additional
CB -10 zoning to the east or north of the current proposal. Yapp said staff is not contemplating
additional CB -10 zoning in that area, however, the downtown section of the recently adopted
Riverfront Crossings Plan does state that underutilized properties, corner lots and non - historic
properties are appropriate for higher density development.
Thomas asked why the staff reported that the main distinction between CB -5 and CB -10 zoning
is the building height. He said the two aspects that differentiate the two zones are building
height and Floor Area Ratio (FAR), so he's not clear why Yapp said the main distinction is
building height. Yapp responded it's because the two are related in that the higher the FAR, the
taller the building can be. Thomas asked if the shadow study they did on a generic six story
building was for the entire footprint of the building. Yapp said they had a setback on the upper
floors. Thomas argued that the FAR in the two zones is different. Yapp agreed.
Eastham referred again to the statement about reducing the development pressures on
surrounding near downtown neighborhoods. He said he thought the gist of what they had been
doing the last several years to address that issue has been trying to reduce the number of short-
term renter occupants in those neighborhoods. Miklo said they have been undertaking other
measures to reduce pressures. Eastham said the proposed use of this parcel under CB -10
zoning would do that, unless staff is recommending that some of the residents in the proposed
building are used for short-term student occupancy. Miklo said it's not just about student
housing. He said the City's efforts have been to channel the demands for space to areas that
don't have historic buildings on them.
Freerks opened public hearing.
Rockne Cole of 1607 East Court Street said that the Comprehensive Plan is a document that
the Commission is sworn to uphold. He said what the Iowa Coalition Against the Shadow is
asking the Commission to do is to follow and uphold this document that citizens have spent
countless hours developing as they determined what kind of city we want to become. He said
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 4, 2013 - Formal
Page 4 of 14
their application for CB -5 zoning complies with the Comprehensive Plan in every way. He said
negotiations are underway, and it is still to be determined if the City will give away thirteen
million taxpayer dollars. He said the applicants' request boils down to determining the
appropriateness of CB -5 zoning for this parcel.
Cole read from the City Code that says: The purpose of the height limitation is to promote 1.
Reasonable building scale and relationship between buildings 2. To provide options for light, air
and privacy 3. To prevent buildings that visually dominate other buildings in the vicinity. He said
the proposed development will be higher than any other development in the city by at least six
stories, and it will tower over all other developments in the community. He said the community
believes this area should be transitional. He said the purpose of CB -5 zoning is to provide
orderly transition from the Central Business District. He asked under what definition of orderly is
the very first expansion of CB -10 as a twenty -story building. He said that's not orderly, it's not in
scale, and it's a violation of the public trust. He said the applicants want the Commission to
grant the application and put it in the hands of the City Council, who were the ones who did not
first consult this Commission or determine if the community would uphold this. He said the
applicants and the coalition support higher density that's environmentally sustainable for
business expansion. He said what the applicants are asking is that the very first expansion from
the Central Business District is not the highest building in the 170 year history of this
community.
Greenwood Hektoen clarified that there is no developers' agreement for this site, so the building
height has yet to be determined. She said Council has indicated that they would anticipate CB-
10 zoning there.
Mark McCullum of 1610 Crescent Street asked what zoning this lot was prior to the City's
ownership. Miklo said staff would research that and report back to the Commission. McCullum
said he participated in the Zoning Code rewrite in 2005 where they got lots of feedback from the
citizens indicating that the subject area was a transition area. He said when the City studied this
area for the Code rewrite, the result was a downzoning, not an up zoning. He asked if there is
an intention to rezone all public spaces in the area to CB -10. Yapp said there was not.
McCullum said he had been hearing that the Recreation Center, which covers an entire city
block, is in play before this is all over. He said if they start expanding the CB -10 zone, what's to
keep other buildings in CB -5 zones and CB -2 zones from asking for a CB -10 rezoning. He
suggested that everyone view the city from College Green Park and look at what's happening to
that area and they'll see how the city is moving eastward towards the park. He said this is the
first of many steps that he would call a slippery slope in why the CB -5 zone makes so much
sense as a transition zone. He said the applicants are for development, but would like to use
East Village in Des Moines or McQuillen Place in Charles City as models where there can be
reasonable transitional development that also expands the tax base.
Jon Fogarty of 1111 Church Street said in retrospect, if City Council had been doing their
homework, they would have rezoned this before they put out the Request for Proposals (RFP)
and the community would be discussing this map long before time and expense were put into
proposals. He said if you had asked citizens what size building should be put on that site; he
doesn't think many would say it should be the tallest building in town. He said the historic
neighborhood adjacent to this proposed building is only two stories high. He said he can't
imagine many people recommending going from five, to twenty to two stories all within a block.
Fogarty said the vision that is being put forth is myopic and doesn't take into account the rest of
that property. He said if they stick to the Comprehensive Plan and go south of Burlington and
the proposed building is as wonderful as is being touted, it's going to be a magnet for
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 4, 2013 - Formal
Page 5 of 14
development as downtown moves south of Burlington in accordance with all the planning that
has been done. He said if they are going to not go south of Burlington and spot zone this and
make a giant wart in the midst of CB -5 and CB -2 buildings, they might as well go all out and
bulldoze everything on three blocks from the Recreation Center to United Action for Youth, sell it
all for lots of money and be ready to zone it CB -10, do CB -5 all around it and watch the
encroachment into College Street. He said if the building is as good as advertised, it will be a
magnet for other density, and that's why it belongs in another part of the city. He said there have
recently been a number of great buildings in that neighborhood fall to the wrecking ball and be
redeveloped, and that is the future of the neighborhood if this one property is spot zoned. He
said then everyone from the Credit Union to United Action for Youth and others could then ask
for higher density zoning if this one building is spot zoned. He said when talking about vision,
let's not just look at this small subject parcel of land, but think about the vision for the entire
neighborhood and downtown and stand by our Plan.
Nancy Quellhorst of the Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce said she supports the retention
of Public zoning with the hope that this property will at some point be zoned CB -10. She said
CB -10 would better align with Smart Growth strategies, which include dense urban areas,
enable walkability, and boost the local economy, and create an environment that feels safe. She
said most importantly it could bring a real vibrancy to our area. She said CB -10 will allow for a
critical mass of the workforce housing with office space and ground level activity that will best
utilize this unique parcel.
Louise Young of 320 E. Washington Street said that this zoning should never be moved to CB-
10. She emphatically stated that a twenty story building does not belong in this part of town, and
it's inconsiderate of someone to put that building up when so many other buildings are affected
by the shadow it creates. She said she belongs to Trinity, and they use the sun and the ground
to go green on their heating and electricity. She said a smaller building that makes use of the
green methods of conserving electricity would be much better suited to that site. She said the
people at Trinity are very puzzled why the Council did not choose the one proposal that did fit
the bill.
Mary Gravitt of 2714 Wayne Street said Gilbert and College Street is only an approach to the
downtown area so that twenty story building is completely inappropriate and would create a
canyon. She said City Council has gone insane and thinks this town is Los Angeles or Paris or
New York. She says putting a twenty story building there looks very suspicious, as it may
forebode a move toward Linn Street, and building its brothers and sisters. She said she doesn't
want to see Iowa City overextend itself when we are what we are.
Josh Schamber, president of the Iowa City and Coralville Area Convention and Visitors' Bureau
said they have been pleased by the transparent and inclusive process of staff and City Council.
He said they are pleased with the cinema and bowling alleys that are proposed as they will bring
more community residents into the downtown area. He said they are pleased by having another
hotel and workforce housing. He said he believes that the developer will work to develop a
project that a majority of the community can be proud of.
Diane Machatka of 406 Reno Street disclosed that she works in the University of Iowa Planning
Department but she does not speak on behalf of the University and her comments do not
represent any University position. She said she supports development on this corner and the
City's goals for this development. She said, however, she doesn't think it's safe to assume that
just because something is outside the border of a neighborhood it's not really going to have a
negative impact. She said we have a responsibility to make sure that historic neighborhoods
and historic properties are not diminished by new development. She said the block just east of
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 4, 2013 - Formal
Page 6 of 14
the subject site is zoned CB -2, and all the other boundaries on the CB -10 zone that are not
public are zoned CB -5, which then steps down to CB -2 or CC -2. She said this is the only
location in town where a CB -10 area is bordered by CB -2, and to say that going directly from
what could be a twenty story building to a half block wide of CB -2 and then directly into a
residential historic district does not constitute a reasonable transition.
Peter Jordet, a student at the University said he believes the CB -5 zone achieves just as well if
not better what the CB -10 zone could achieve. He said the infill that has occurred so far in the
adjacent CB -10 zone is lower height buildings that fit into what is already there and the CB -5
zone would insure that trend continues near downtown. He said CB -5 would make a better
transition area. He said much of the Riverfront Crossings area will be zoned CB -10 and near
downtown, so if the subject property were to be zoned CB -10 it would only marginally improve
walkability or increase the amount that will be here in the future looking at the entire picture of
what's going to happen to the city.
Erik Gidal of 328 Brown Street said he thinks City Council and City Staff as well as many people
who are interested in downtown commerce are collectively losing their minds when they think
about building a twenty story building. He said this building would be a monumental disaster for
the downtown of the city. He said this is a matter of intervention among friends, and he is asking
the Commission to step in preemptively and zone this CB -5 as a message that there needs to
be a limit to the kind of development that's going on and a sense that City Council really needs
to rethink this.
Elizabeth Michael of 2801 Highway 6 E. said when she read about how the decision came
about in choosing the proposed building she decided that the fix was in. She said other people
talked to her and were similarly outraged and suspicious. She said it may be that the building
City Council chose may be the best building, but the process by which it was chosen does not
inspire confidence. She said before City Council is able to move ahead with the process she
wants them to use the criteria that they established to decide if this is truly the best choice.
Amanda Van Horne said she is the Junior Warden at Trinity Episcopal Church and is speaking
for CB -5 zoning on behalf of the congregation and vestry. She said they think that CB -5 zoning
would result in a development that's consistent with the Comprehensive Plan, maintains the
viability of their congregation, and provides for the welfare of all citizens. She said the
Commission has a responsibility to be the gatekeeper of the Plan, insuring that everyone,
including the City, abides by the Comprehensive Plan. She said the ways Trinity uses their
property are limited by the parking and space constraints that come with their decision to remain
downtown. She said they fear that increased pressure on parking, which may result from CB -10
zoning, would limit their economic viability. She said if limited parking causes people to go to
other churches or causes them to alter church activities, they may no longer be a viable
congregation and may be forced to abandon a historic building that they treasure.
Van Horne said Trinity has long been an advocate of affordable housing. She said high rise
construction limits who can afford to use the building. She said that buildings taller than seventy -
five feet are required to meet the building codes for high -rise construction, meaning increased
construction costs and higher rents that will limit the ability of low and moderate income
individuals and non - profit entities to use the space. She said given the public investment via the
TIF, it should be insured that the building is open for use by tenants of both modest and
extravagant means. She said CB -5 would limit the height of the building and therefore limit
construction costs, allowing the building to be more accessible to the general public. She said
they are urging the Commission to decide for a building scale that respects the City's own plan
for the neighborhood.
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 4, 2013 - Formal
Page 7 of 14
Paul Hanley of 518 Meadow Street said he taught Urban Planning, and he thinks it is premature
for the applicants to be asking for a change in the zoning. He said he believes a higher density
belongs on this side of Burlington Street. He said he doesn't think a rezoning to CB -5 will relieve
the concern of the shadow affecting Trinity Church.
Alan Swanson of 930 Foster Road said CB -10 zoning indicates a city moving forward, not stuck
in neutral when it comes to an exciting urban future. He said this building is a beacon of
progressive thinking. He said he sees the offerings of this building as a great addition to help top
off the complement of arts that the city offers. He said as a realtor he knows that young and
aging populations want to live downtown. He said we are no longer a small town, but rather an
international city.
Regenia Baily of 310 Reno Street said it's rare when a public space is turned into commercial
land. She said this is the community's land, and they should seek the highest return on it, and
CB -10 makes that possible. She said to deal with the growth pattern of Iowa City; it makes
sense to look into increasing the density where there already is the infrastructure. She said
development like this takes the pressure off our older neighborhoods. She said CB -10 offers the
most possibilities of the vision of bringing people downtown and it supports the vibrant and
active community downtown. She said she would hate to see this rare opportunity squandered
by keeping things short.
Bill Nusser, owner of Hand's Jewelers, said that we need responsible development that will
increase the chances of sustainability and survival for commercial business owners downtown.
He said that the Moen project offers that. He said he frequently hears that people want to live
downtown, and that opportunity doesn't exist right now. He said he thinks this project offers a
more stable type of resident as opposed to all the student housing that is in the downtown area.
He said he thinks this is exactly what the town needs exactly where we need it.
Jan Palmer of 814 Bowery Street said the genius of Iowa City is that it does not read as a city,
offering a rich cosmopolitan environment with the warmth and hospitality of a large town. She
said if they don't destroy it, this unique blend of elements may prove over time to be Iowa City's
civic asset. She compared Iowa City to Madison, Wisconsin, a city, not a town, which has
maintained a strict height limit on its buildings. She said a seventy -five foot limit seems entirely
appropriate for this location. She said anything larger would be out of scale and significantly
obstruct the view of downtown from neighborhoods to the east. She said the CB -5 zoning would
help assure that growth can be accommodated while protecting the essential nature of the
community.
Elsie Gauley Vega of 320 E. Washington Street said that a tall building just across from a
historic property is too close. She said just because the site is on a corner, it doesn't seem to be
calling for a tower. She said it's an insult to Trinity Episcopal Church, which just completed a
project on their building to provide more service to people. She said we are called Iowa City but
we are really a town. She said build the tall buildings in Riverfront Crossings instead of in a
residential district. She said the apartments in the proposed building would be too expensive for
the working class.
Dhyana Kaufman of 422 Wales Street said this site is just not the right place for a twenty -story
building. She said this is public land, held in trust by the City, and she doesn't feel there has
been enough genuine public discussion about what should be put on this site. She said she
feels that staff and City Council had this grand vision for what should go here, but they missed
the piece about talking to the community. She said a lot of people are passionate about the
character and nature of this town. She said because this is public land, the community needs to
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 4, 2013 - Formal
Page 8 of 14
hold the commission to higher standard for expectation of how it is used. She said this should
go back to City Council for more public hearings. She said this is indeed a rare opportunity to
make a space that is special and is really for the whole community, and could still be a magnet.
She said this is more about return on the dollar.
Ann Christenson of 827 Dearborn said she has a Masters in Urban Studies. She said a building
of twenty- stories is entirely inappropriate for that site. She said she thinks there are more
appropriate opportunities for a building of this type in the Riverfront Crossings area. She asked
why the City isn't pursuing the plan they already have for high rises in that area. She said this
building on the proposed site would obscure the view of Old Capital, our most recognizable
image. She asked why the City is giving so much TIF money to a project that should be able to
stand on its own. She said tax payer money should not go into it at the level it's being offered.
Sonia Ebbinger suggested we wait until the Park 2001 has been completed to see what the
shadow is like with this fourteen story building. She said the apartments in these high rises are
too expensive for the working people. She said this is a charming town, and we shouldn't make
it bigger than human, and she thinks these big buildings in the downtown are going to make it
lose its humanity. She said if Gilbert Street and College Street are going to have both more
residential and visitor traffic spilling out onto them, it's going to get overloaded with both drivers
and pedestrians.
George Etre, a downtown business owner, said he is excited by the proposed development. He
said projects like this only help the vibrancy of downtown.
Tim Connery said he believes that the strong economic environment in Iowa City was fostered
by the ability for responsible developers such as The Moen Group to proceed with projects such
as the proposed one. He said he thinks we shouldn't be afraid of this project. He said it is what
is needed to attract young professionals to the city.
Philip Kemp said he is speaking on behalf of Trinity Episcopal Church as a vestry member and
wants to emphasize that this is a historic decision that should be taken in context with what may
happen next. He said the Commission is setting a precedent here. He said if they recommend
CB -10 zoning they are opening a door to other CB -10 development moving to the east. He cited
an example in a section of London that was glutted with high rises that have not turned out to
fulfill the hopes and dreams of their planners and builders. He said we have to think about
environmental sustainability, and the carbon footprint of the proposed building may be quite
extensive in terms of light, energy and people commuting in by car. He said Trinity was getting
LEEDS certification on its building when they redeveloped it in 2009. He said if the proposed
building without any height restriction goes ahead, that will increase Trinity's costs of lighting
and heating and possibly cause them to relocate.
Freerks called for a five minute break, after which the meeting was called to order and public
hearing continued.
Perry Lenz of 113 Post Road said his concerns with a CB -10 zone is the traffic or parking
problems that could be created. He said with the character of the neighborhood, CB -5 zoning
would be more appropriate.
Nancy Adams Cogan of 1117 St. Clements Alley read a poem about light on College Street and
beyond that indicated her concern about light, the sky and the views of Iowa City if high rises
start proliferating.
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 4, 2013 - Formal
Page 9 of 14
Eric Johnson of Oxford said it is conceivable that the proposed building could be the seventh
tallest one in Iowa in a transitional zone. He said the proposed building, only one story lower
than the Alliant Tower in Cedar Rapids, is entirely out of place in the proposed location.
Linda Fisher from Coralville said she likes Moen's ideas very much, but he may be able to find
another place for this proposed building that won't pull the community apart. She said she has
faith in him to do that.
Mary Gravitt said she had issues with the pejorative connotations of the term "workforce
housing." She argued that there was nothing transparent about the City Council's selection of
that twenty -story building. She said Trinity Church made their improvements on their own and
didn't get any TIF money.
Louise Young said she and the people at Trinity are in favor of responsible development. She
said it not responsible to build multiple skyscrapers in this town, particularly in a transitional
area. She said the decision needs to be made carefully and prayerfully. She then said a prayer.
Nancy Carlson of 1002 E. Jefferson Street said from attending Planning and Zoning
Commission meetings for over twenty years, she has come to realize that one of the major
arguments that's always used by staff is that the subject area is already zoned a designation, so
why not expand it a little, with disregard to the area around it. She said she is frustrated by the
fact that the rest of the buildings in the CB -10 zone across from the proposed development are
of CB -5 character. She reminded the Commission that every time a developer has tried to up
zone an area they have told the Commission that if they don't do this it will be to the detriment of
the city. She argued that it would instead be a detriment to them, not to the city. She said the
City has turned down many of these projects, and she asked as a result if the city has suffered
or moved forward in a way that is better for all the citizens of the community.
Bill Nusser said he was happy that the shadow effect between a CB -5 and CB -10 building
appeared to be negligible. He said the people downtown have a concern that a CB -5
designation would bring more of what we have now, and it's inexpensive student housing, and
they don't think anyone could build anything other than that in a CB -5 zone.
Amanda Van Horne said she is again speaking on behalf of Trinity Church as an entity. She
argued that if a setback was included in shadow study for a CB -5 building, the shadow effect
could possibly not affect Trinity as intensely. She said even if there isn't much of a shadow on
Trinity after 9:00 a.m., two of the Sunday morning services and four weekday services are held
before 9:00 a.m. She pointed out that all the units proposed for workforce housing would be one
or two- bedroom units and the rents would be between $1100 and $2500 if it conforms to the
workforce housing restrictions. She said this is not affordable for those who are classified as
"workforce." She said it's been put forth that increased density downtown would improve
walkability. She said it might improve walkability for the people who live downtown but many
people drive from outlying areas and need to park to access the areas that are public spaces.
She said having a movie theatre and hotel that have varying capacities would influence the
ability of people to access the downtown. She cited instances of church members being
adversely affected by the safety issues of ice created by the shadow effect, parking and more
traffic.
Paul Hanley reminded the Commission that the decision on the petition is to change from P -1 to
CB -5 zoning. He said it's not making a comparison between CB -5 and CB -10, and that's an
argument for another day.
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 4, 2013 - Formal
Page 10 of 14
Freerks said she feels like the Commission might not want to decide on this application tonight.
Cole asked if the Commission needs other information or facts. Freerks said if the Commission
doesn't feel confident making a vote, sometimes they will just deny the application, and she
wants to give this the opportunity to have thought and consideration. She said she's going to
have to think about it more. Cole said given that this decision will have implications for
potentially one - hundred years and potentially involve tens of millions of dollars of taxpayer
money as well as private development, the applicants will waive the 45 day limitation period.
Freerks closed public hearing.
Thomas moved to defer until April 18, 2013 REZ13 -00009 an application submitted by
Rockne Cole, Jon Fogarty and Mark McCallum for a rezoning from Public (P -1) zone to
Central Business Support (CB -5) zone for approximately 0.38 -acres of property located at
the northeast corner of Gilbert and College Streets.
Eastham seconded the motion.
Thomas said a great deal of thought has gone into this on the part of the community, and it's a
major decision for the Commission. He said he's looking forward to reflecting on the comments
he's heard today.
Eastham said the issues that he will be interested in at the next meeting will probably be
protection of historic structures as called for in the Riverfront Crossings /Downtown Master Plan
and the Comprehensive Plan. He said he's interested in the staff's further discussion about how
that protection is actually supposed to occur. He said he is not clear on what a transition zone
meant to accomplish and how to insure that purpose is actually accomplished.
Martin said this is a question of zoning, not a building, so she needs to separate the two issues.
Swygard said for her it's a zoning issue, and it's not about the buildings but she appreciates the
input, because the types of issues the public hearing has brought forth, like height and light, are
important for her to hear.
Freerks said her hope will be that whatever occurs in this area in the future will be something
that strengthens this area and doesn't break it apart. She said the Commission has a lot to think
about. She said she can understand why it's an area keen for development. She said it's close
to a lovely area to the east, but that want to keep that area lovely. She said Trinity has put a lot
of work and money into part of the downtown, and they want them to stay downtown. She says
she feels that the building and the zone are intertwined in some ways. She said in her mind, it
would be nice if what is being negotiated right now weren't twenty stories, and she's not sure
how putting the tallest building in Iowa City in a transitional zone achieves transition.
Dyer said she doesn't think the Commission can consider this as only a zoning question. She
said if they think of it as a zoning question, she is really troubled by this being another example
of the City deciding to approve something and then coming to the Commission to see if they can
have the zone. She said it's supposed to work the other way around. She said she is persuaded
by the light argument because of a personal instance when her house lost its passive solar
capacity by a three story building on the adjacent lot. She said light matters.
Eastham said formally, this is an application to rezone a parcel of land. He said his responsibility
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 4, 2013 - Formal
Page 11 of 14
as he understands it is to consider that application in light of the current Comprehensive Plan
applicable to that parcel, which is the Vision 2000 Plan. He said that they are currently in the
process of recommending a revision of that Plan which has basically a call to study this and
other parcels. He said he would like the staff to help him work his way through what Plan he
should be applying to this and without regard to whatever action the Council has taken.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7 -0.
Freerks called for a five minute break, after which the meeting was called to order
Comprehensive Plan Item
Public hearing on an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan to adopt an update to Iowa
City's Comprehensive Plan: "Iowa City 2030."
Walz pointed out the changes that have been made to various portions, including Hazard
Mitigation, Economic Development, Environmental, and Arts and Culture. She reminded the
Commission that the issue of setting specific goals and measures for sustainability will be
published in the Iowa City Sustainability Assessment that should be coming forth in the next few
months from Brenda Nation's office. She said she will add some language to the background
section of the Code just to call people's attention to that assessment, and that will be the City's
opportunity to set very specific, measurable goals for sustainability.
Eastham asked if those goals will be applicable to private developments in the city. Walz said
some of them will.
Freerks opened public hearing.
Mary Murphy of Parkview Terrace said she has seen some deterioration in Iowa City. She
complained about pan handlers and petty theft being less than helpful in attracting people to the
city. She said many people with children that she knows have moved out of the city. She said
she would like to see the "Iowa City 2030" Plan be truly evaluated to see if it is competitive with
neighboring areas. She said there is a bias in this plan that does not favor families like hers.
She said she would have liked to have seen the staff ask the community what they didn't like
about Iowa City, which is just as important as what they like.
Murphy said the comments of the people on McCollister Court were ignored, and they will now
have high density housing behind their single family homes. She said not everyone wants to live
at certain points in their lives in a mixed neighborhood, and she thinks the Plan needs to respect
consumer choice more. She doesn't like the Plan's emphasis on shallow front yards or that it
discourages cul de sacs, and driveways in front yards because these are all elements that affect
a family with children. She said there's no reason why they should cram as much housing as
possible into Iowa City, despite its limited tax base. She said she doesn't agree that there's an
increased demand for higher density urban housing. She said workforce housing needs to be
better defined in the plan. She said there needs to be more choices for aging people in the
community. She said the Plan should think about whether commercial on the first floor is an
idea that should continue, as some of those retail areas don't look that well patronized.
Murphy said she likes the focus on the environment, but Iowa City is subsidizing a flood gate in
Coralville and some of the University. She said that's bad public policy because it encourages
people to build in a flood plain.
Freerks closed public hearing.
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 4, 2013 - Formal
Page 12 of 14
Weitzel moved to recommend approval of an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan to
adopt an update to Iowa City's Comprehensive Plan: "Iowa City 2030."
Eastham seconded.
Eastham said the only major objection he has to what is before the Commission now is the land
use map, which shows the property at the corner of Gilbert and College Streets for commercial
development. He said his purpose is trying to avoid confusion about what they are doing with
this amendment to the Comprehensive Plan for that parcel. He asked about showing the
property as mixed use.
Miklo said they have generally shown downtown and other major commercial areas as general
commercial, which allows for mixed use. He said at this point staff would advise continuing with
the Plan as drafted. Freerks said it does become an island if you show it as mixed use, and she
doesn't know if she has a better answer to the dilemma than Eastham has. Eastham asked if in
the staff's opinion if this land use scenario map is adopted is there any reason why the
Commission could not approve zoning for CB -5 on that parcel. Miklo said he doesn't believe so
because CB -5 and CB -10 are both commercial zones. He said adoption of this map doesn't
compel the Commission to deny the CB -5 zone. Freerks said she would agree with that.
Swygard said this update and the Riverfront Crossings /Downtown Plan project a lot of growth,
and she said that could create a lot of strain on City resources if they don't keep up with the
growth that is happening fairly quickly. She said in the Fire Department's strategic plan 2016
they list as one of their threats city growth outpacing department growth.
Freerks said she sees that happening in Parks as well. Miklo said it will be decades before
Riverfront Crossings builds out. He said the Plan doesn't make the growth happen, but it
provides a plan that it can fit into.
Swygard said with the buildings going higher, there may be additional training needed for fire
fighters.
Eastham said that Thomas had suggested that at some point they incorporate into the
Comprehensive Plan a list of actual, measurable goals which gives indication of progress over a
period of years. He said he supports doing that. Thomas said there's lots of good language in
the update, but his concern is that in looking at plans from twenty years ago, there has been
mixed success in meeting the goals and strategies, and measurability is a way of tracking that.
He said he thinks it's important to come up with an action plan.
Miklo said a good model of that might be the Historic Preservation Plan, which the Historic
PreservationCommission meets on annually to review and plan progress. Dyer said there
should be some goals and then an annual report on the progress of the goals and whether they
need to be modified.
Martin said this update is a lot of good work and still something of a work in progress. She
recognized that it is not going to be everything to every person. She had questions about how
you measure a goal. Freerks said she thinks goals are how you do it with limited time and
resources.
Eastham said there were comments earlier about honoring consumer choice, especially in
housing type and location, and although that's an important thing to keep in mind, he also has to
bear in mind that his responsibility is to the entire community. He said developers don't
necessarily have the same inclination as he does all the time.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7 -0.
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 4, 2013 - Formal
Page 13 of 14
Development Item
SUB13- 00007: Discussion of an application submitted by SW Development for a
preliminary plat of Country Club Estates 4 -7 Additions, a 67 -lot, 51.08 acre residential
subdivision located west of Lake Shore Drive.
Miklo said he received a revised plat and the technical deficiencies have been corrected. He
said the two double fronting lots have been combined into one, so staff is recommending
approval. He reminded the Commission that this is basically the same plan that was approved in
2009. He said one of the concerns was connectivity to Melrose Avenue. Miklo said in the long
term a collector street is anticipated in the vicinity of Slothower Road connecting Melrose to the
Country Club subdivision and eventually Rohret Road.
Freerks opened public hearing.
Freerks closed public hearing.
Eastham moved to recommend approval of SUB13 -00007 an application submitted by
SW Development for a preliminary plat of Country Club Estates 4 -7 Additions, a 67 -lot,
51.08 acre residential subdivision located west of Lake Shore Drive.
Swygard seconded.
Freerks said this complied with the Comprehensive Plan previously, there have been very few
changes, and it still complies with the Plan. Eastham agreed with Freerks' remarks.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7 -0.
Consideration of Meeting Minutes: March 21, 2013
Eastham moved to adopt the minutes of March 21 with minor corrections.
Martin seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7 -0.
OTHER
ADJOURNMENT:
Thomas moved to adjourn.
Eastham seconded.
The meeting was adjourned on a 7 -0 vote.
Z
_O
Fn
N
V
z_
z
N
ad
0
zE
z
g
a
w
.i
O 0
W
Z
M W
W LU LU
N
Z N Q
z N It It
W O
H W
FO
:!!tXXXXXXX
-XXXX
NXxxxxxx
M
M
--XXXXXx
X
X
X
X
X
X
N
-OXXXXXX
NXXXXXXX
ZXXXXXxx
-XX
�XXXXXXX
NxxxoXXX
X
X
X
X
X
r
N
oxoxxx0
CD
,.XXXXXxx
V-
NXxxxxxx
CD
mXXXX�X�
co
oXXXXXWX
•-
O
oXXXXXXX
r
lxxxxxx
0
1
°XXXXXXw
00
0O
M
I--
If)
U.)
M
WalnLO
0tn0
LO
C-40xxxoxo
CD CDXXXXXXX
ti
w
wcocflm�LoLo
Q
Z
WZ
M
0Ua
=app
Q
W
a
C
U
W
Y
wOCI
-
QZW�Z
0UQ
—W
ui
=a=pp
Q
Q�Q�Q�2w
ZCWU.20)
VYZaNW
3:W
QN
2
Q)-QMQ
Lij
2w
zoWLL
(5
f-3
0
Z
H
W
W
O
U.
Z
C)xx
-XXXX
NXxxxxxx
NXxxxxxx
Z
-OXXXXXX
r
Z;qXXXX
-XX
iqxxxxxxx
o
X
X
X
X
X
oxoxxx0
CD
ZXXXxXx0
CD
mXXXX�X�
oo�XXXXOO
:!txxxxxxx
NXxxxxxx
U)
� w
00
0O
M
I--
If)
U.)
M
WalnLO
0tn0
LO
X0000000
w
w
Q
Z
WZ
0Ua
=app
Q
a
C
U
Q
Y
wOCI
=a,ZQaW
—W
ui
ly-��H
Q�Q�Q�2w
ZCWU.20)
U) CD
U
Q E
aQ�Z
Q
n n n
xoo !
w
Y
5b(8)
mm ��
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION APPROVED
APRIL 15 — 5:15 PM — INFORMAL
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: Bob Miklo, John Yapp, Sarah Greenwood Hektoen
OTHERS PRESENT:
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
None.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 5:15 PM.
Rezoning Item
REZ13- 00009: Discussion of an application submitted by Rockne Cole, Jon Fogarty and
Mark McCallum for a rezoning from Public (P -1) zone to Central Business Support (CB -5)
zone for approximately 0.38 -acres of property located at the northeast corner of Gilbert
and College Streets.
Yapp said he had been asked by a member of the public to clarify what else is going on
immediately around this property. He showed the Commissioners what was to the immediate
north and east of it.
He addressed the questions that the Commissioners had for staff at the last Planning and
Zoning Commission meeting. Yapp said one question was how does the Comprehensive Plan
address downtown historic buildings. He said the current Plan refers to the Historic Preservation
Plan, which is very much oriented to preserving individual buildings through designation of
historic landmark status and encouraging facade improvements on historic buildings. He said
the number one objective for the downtown area is to emphasize the improvement of key
historic building, and the number two objective is to encourage facade improvements. He said
other goals include designating landmarks, supporting a downtown manager, and encouraging
building facade renovation on Iowa Avenue. He said downtown has a number of historic
landmark buildings but is neither a historic district nor a conservation district.
Eastham asked if the Historic Preservation Plan primarily addresses residential neighborhoods.
Miklo said yes, but there is a section of the Plan concerning downtown. He said the Historic
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 15, 2013 - Informal
Page 2 of 6
Preservation Commission did do a study of downtown identifying a potential national register
historic district, which could also lead to a local historic district, but the downtown business
organization had limited interest in pursuing that.
Yapp said the next question was how does the Comprehensive Plan address transitional areas
between downtown and near downtown areas. He said that the Plan states that the city should
preserve the integrity of existing neighborhoods by supporting historic preservation goals, which
are to designate historic districts and conservation districts where the neighborhoods qualify for
that status based on the percentage of qualifying historic structures in that neighborhood. He
showed the Commission a map of the historic and conservation districts. He said there is little in
the Plan regarding prescribed methods for transition areas. He said in the proposed
Comprehensive Plan there are two areas noted that have the potential to redevelop at higher
densities due to proximity to downtown and the university and should comply with the policies
and goals of the Central District Plan in terms of design review requirements for multifamily
buildings. He said design review is not required for projects in the Downtown Planning District.
Freerks asked why that was so. Miklo responded that the Multi- family Infill Guidelines were
initially developed for the Central Planning District. They were later expanded to include other
multi - family construction in other areas of the city, but not downtown. That might have been
because up to that point there had not been much multi - family built downtown. That has
changed in recent years. He said when they were drafting the Plan the two areas noted in the
paragraph above are where they saw the potential for development and decided that they
should be subject to some design review.
Eastham asked if those two areas are still covered by the Vision 2000 Plan. Miklo said they are.
Thomas asked if Low Density Multifamily (RM -12) is part of the transition zone. Yapp explained
that he included that in the staff memo to give a bigger view of the current zoning pattern
transitioning from west to east the Central Business (CB -10), then to the Public (P) zone, then to
Central Business Service (CB -2) and Central Business Support (CB -5) to the east of Van Buren
Street, and then to Low - Density Multifamily (RM -12) and Neighborhood Stabilization Residential
(RNS -20) starting around Johnson Street, and then ultimately further to the east single family.
Thomas said in his mind, what's there around College Green is single family, and that's the
neighborhood. Yapp said it's zoned RM -12 but part of it is conservation or historic district.
Thomas said if they are talking about transition from the downtown to the residential
neighborhoods, the latter would be RM -12. Yapp agreed. Thomas said he would like to see a
map in which the current CB -10 zone will be one color, any residential zones will be another
color, and the area in between would be a third color. He said they could overlay the
conservation and historic districts on the map, because he considers them reinforcements in a
way. Thomas said he thinks the zoning and the historic and conservation districts are two tools
the Commission uses, and they are not a consistent pattern.
Eastham said that he is grappling with the issue that while he partially agrees with the point that
the Comprehensive Plan talks about transitions, the specifics of how to do that are somewhat
elusive in the Plan. He said that the purpose of all the commercial zones, except for CB -10, is in
some way transitional. He asked staff to comment on that in terms of what they are trying to get
to in achieving some transition between CB -10 and less intensive areas.
Yapp replied that traditionally a transition is a stepping down in zoning from one density or
intensity of land use and trying to avoid that being directly adjacent to a much lower density or
intensity use. He said that can be done in stepping down in zoning, incorporation of green
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 15, 2013 - Informal
Page 3 of 6
space, topography and other ways.
Greenwood Hektoen said that would be good to explain at Thursday's meeting.
Eastham said that the Gilbert Street sub - district of the Riverfront Crossings /Downtown Plan is
one plan that has a specific discussion about achieving transition between neighborhoods and
higher density development by limiting building height.
Freerks said the lack of discussion or methods of transition is showing in the kind of tension
along that whole area, so as they talk about what's going to happen in the future in terms of
growth, this is an area the Commission wants to look at more closely.
Miklo said the Riverfront Crossings /Downtown Plan actually talks about parts of Downtown
being less intense, so it's not going to be a hard and fast rule that the zoning has to CB -10, then
CB -5 then CB -2. It's not always a formula where you step down the zoning: much depend on
the context of the property.
Eastham said the Riverfront Crossings /Downtown Plan shows in the downtown area fourteen
sites that are suggested or recommended for redevelopment. He said only five of those are
actually recommended for redevelopment above the CB -5 standard. Miklo said in the back of
the Plan there is height map which shows a range of seven to fifteen stories, and that is the
guide to use for individual properties.
Thomas said that map shows a six story maximum on the west side of Gilbert Street. Eastham
said whatever map you use that is the height recommendation along Gilbert Street.
Dyer asked about developing procedures for defining transitional zoning in the future. Freerks
said it does seem like the Commission is always trying to put out fires in terms of great things
that are going to happen or bad things that might occur. She said it does seem like something
that has fallen to the bottom of the list as they take care of other business, and it's coming to
that point where they really need to look at it.
Miklo said that in terms of zoning for downtown and transitioning to neighborhoods it's as much
of an art as it is a science, and he thinks what the Commission is asking for is a scientific
methodology. He said he doesn't think there is a formula. He said you look at sites specifically,
the surroundings, and the conditions on that site, which was done in the Riverfront
Crossings /Downtown Plan. He added that you look at the characteristics such as availability of
parking immediately adjacent to the development, what the zoning next door would allow, and
just like any other zone in town, you consider all of those factors in making your decision.
Eastham said he agrees with Anne in that the Commission is always being urged to react to a
particular recommendation or request either from the standpoint of excitement or dismay.
Miklo said in terms of the Comprehensive Plan, it's a vision and a guide, not a hard and fast
rule, so there's some judgment call on the part of the Commission and on the Council.
Thomas mentioned the 500 block of Washington Street and how Council did not take the
Commission recommendation to rezone that block mixed use in the mid- 2000's. He said it
remains CB -2, and he feels as staff did that it is classic transition. He said where you have
commercial zones to low density residential zones to residential zones that's a jump. Miklo said
that's why that area has been called out for further study in the draft Comprehensive Plan.
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 15, 2013 - Informal
Page 4 of 6
Yapp said another question asked by the Commission was which Comprehensive Plan should
they consider. He said the current Comprehensive Plan and the Riverfront Crossings /Downtown
Plan are adopted, so it is appropriate to use both of them in considering development proposals.
He said the Commission should also consider the proposed Comprehensive Plan update but to
keep in mind that it had not been adopted and has the potential for revisions.
Eastham said he was perplexed by the recommendation that he assess this specific zoning
request and consider something that doesn't actually exist because it hasn't been adopted yet
with the recognition that the recommendation for adoption may be changed. Miklo said he
doesn't see a conflict between the current Comprehensive Plan and the draft plan.
Greenwood Hektoen reminded Eastham that many times the Commission makes
recommendations at the same time they make a recommendation on an amendment to the
Comprehensive Plan.
Miklo said that neither of the Comprehensive Plans is at odds with each other.
Eastham said that the subject property is specifically included in the current Comprehensive
Plan. He said that contrary to what the staff memo says, it seems like the Comprehensive Plan
does address this property, as it is included in the area covered by that Plan and is on a map of
this area. Yapp said the Comprehensive Plan does not address this property specifically in the
narrative.
Yapp said that questions were asked by the Commission about the zoning history of this
property, and he provided them with a history. Eastham asked if the substation was rezoned to
CB -5 in 2005. Miklo said it was and explained that there were plans to eliminate the CB -2 zone;
and staff had to find alternatives to the properties that were zoned as such. He said after
objections to eliminating the CB -2 zone came from property owners on the 500 block of
Washington Street, Council agreed not to eliminate it, but the plan was already put forward with
rezoning CB -2 to alternatives, and that's how the power station and the Unitarian Church
properties were zoned from CB -2 to CB -5.
Thomas said he wanted to be clear on the rezoning for south of Burlington Street. He asked if
the only areas they need to be aware of in discussions of CB -5 and CB -10 were the
MidAmerican power station, the Unitarian Church and a piece of the Hieronymus property south
of Burlington Street. Miklo said there was some property on Market Street changed to CB -5
before 2005.
Eastham asked if there had been any discussion about zoning the MidAmerican power station
and the Unitarian Church CB -10. Miklo said he didn't recall.
Yapp said that both sixteen and twenty story options were presented to the City Council when
this project was presented to them. He said the specific height of the building is currently being
negotiated, which would ultimately be brought to the Commission in association with a rezoning
application for the property. He said the City and the developer have agreed that it will not be a
twenty story building. Freerks asked if any of the proposals were within the City CB -5 height
limitation. Yapp said there were two — the Clark family proposal for a five story building, which
did not make it as a finalist, and one of the five final proposals that was also a five story
building, which was one floor of commercial with four floors of residential above it. He said four
of the five finalists would have required CB -10.
Swygard asked for clarification about wording in a section of the minutes from the April 1
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 15, 2013 - Informal
Page 5 of 6
Informal Meeting. The tape of the meeting was reviewed, and a change was made in Hektoen
Greenwood's response to a question by Eastham.
Election of Officers
The Commission discussed who was interested in filling the vacancies for officers of the
Commission.
Discussion of Work Program
There was discussion about what would be the priorities for the Commission for the Fiscal Year
beginning in July 2013 and what the Commission has accomplished to date.
OTHER
ADJOURNMENT:
Swygard moved to adjourn.
Thomas seconded.
The meeting was adjourned on a 6 -0 vote. (Weitzel had to leave before adjournment)
Z
O
ro
U)
v
Z_
Z
N
Z
Z
Z
CL
O
O
u
W
w
W
U N
Z
G N
Z
W
r
NXXXXXXX
NXXXXXXX
M
NDXXXXXX
Nxxxxxox
NxxxXxXx
N
XXXXXX
Ixi
ZxxxxxXX
NXXXXXXX
XXXXXXX
lll
I
x
xxXX
�
XXxOXXX
0DXXXXXD
NXXXXXXX
�Dx0xxx0
°XXXXXXX
mXXXXXXD
ac
oXXXXXWX
.-
O
oXXXXXXX
T-
lxxxxxXD
NXXXXXXX
�XXXXXXD
co
�DXXXDX0
o�
�-XXxxxxx
0(omtiLoLoM
ti
W
O
O
M
M
W
� --------
"��-
�- x
0
0
00
0
00
W
Q
z
WZ
0Va
W
=app
a=
>-
a
z
uj
Ova
YZQNLU
=app
Q=
a
a�
V
Y
Z
Q
a
W
W
�
!
Lu
P
Q
ZGWIi2U)
>-
QOCQ
LL,
a
�
=
W
Q
zaWLL
�
Q
�
co
I-3
a
z
p
W
W
2
Ln
NXXXXXXX
CDXXDXXXX
NXXXXXXX
NxxxXxXx
�DXXXXXX
NXXXXXXX
M
4
x
xxXX
0DXXXXXD
�Dx0xxx0
mXXXXXXD
co
NXXXX�X0
ti
)DXXXXOO
NXXXXXXX
NXXXXXXX
W
2
0(omtiLoLoM
WEL000O0OO
�xoo0o000
W
W
Q
z
WZ
0Va
=app
a=
V
YZQNLU
a
N
2W
Q
ZGWIi2U)
>-
QOCQ
-�S
cn 0)
U
Q N
w
QQ)���
a<<Z
1' II II
xoo
w
Y
CITY OF IOWA CITY 5b��
►*"
All
47 MEMORANDUM
Date: May 3, 2013
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Bob Miklo, Staff Member of Planning & Zoning Commission
Re: Recommendations from Planning & Zoning Commission
At their April 18, 2013 meeting the Planning & Zoning Commission made the following
recommendations to the City Council:
The Commission voted 2 -5 ( Dyer, Freerks, Martin, Swygard, Weitzel) to recommend denial of
an application submitted by Rockne Cole, Jon Fogarty and Mark McCallum for a rezoning from
Public (P -1) zone to Central Business Support (CB -5) zone for approximately 0.38 -acres of
property located at the northeast corner of Gilbert and College Streets.
Additional action (check one)
No further action needed
Board or Commission is requesting Council direction
X_ Agenda item will be prepared by staff for Council action
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION APPROVED
APRIL 18 — 7:00 PM — FORMAL
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Carolyn Dyer, Charlie Eastham, Anne Freerks, Phoebe Martin,
Paula Swygard, John Thomas, Tim Weitzel
MEMBERS ABSENT: None.
STAFF PRESENT: Bob Miklo, John Yapp, Sarah Walz, Sarah Greenwood Hektoen
OTHERS PRESENT: Rockne Cole, Mark McCallum, Jon Fogarty, Rudolph Kuenzli,
Charles Stanier, Ben Webb, Phil Beck, Adrianne Behning,
Regenia Bailey, Evan Fales, Cecile Kuenzli, Chelsea Bacon,
Janiece Piltingsrud, Pam Michaud, Mary Gravitt, Ashley Shields,
Louise Young, Hannan Papineschi, Paul Hanley, Yale Cohn,
Dana Thomann, Will Downing, Mary Bennett, Erin Fleck, Jiyun
Park, Liz Moon
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
The Commission voted 2 -5 ( Dyer, Freerks, Martin, Swygard, Weitzel) to recommend
denial of an application submitted by Rockne Cole, Jon Fogarty and Mark McCallum for a
rezoning from Public (P -1) zone to Central Business Support (CB -5) zone for
approximately 0.38 -acres of property located at the northeast corner of Gilbert and
College Streets.
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
REZ13- 00009: Discussion of an application submitted by Rockne Cole, Jon Fogarty and
Mark McCallum for a rezoning from Public (P -1) zone to Central Business Support (CB -5)
zone for approximately 0.38 -acres of property located at the northeast corner of Gilbert
and College Streets.
Yapp showed an aerial photo, to explain the context of the property, and maps that had been
requested by the Commission at their informal meeting on April 15 that show the existing CB -10
zone, the CB -2 and CB -5 zones, Public (P) property both City and University- owned, residential
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 18, 2013 - Formal
Page 2 of 13
property, conservation and historic districts around College Green, and historic landmarks in the
downtown area. He said that staff recommends that this property remain zoned Public until a
development proposal is brought forward, at which time staff anticipates a request for rezoning
to CB -10. He named the characteristics this property has that leads staff to believe that it is best
zoned CB -10.
Swygard asked if this property is rezoned now to CB -5, would it be required to come back
through the Commission before the site could be developed. Yapp said not if it were developed
under the CB -5 rules and regulations. He said if the property owner sought a different zone,
then it would come back before the Commission.
Eastham asked if public land in conservation and historic districts is subject to the rules and
regulations of historic preservation. Miklo said if it's owned by the City, county or School District,
he believes that it would be. He said if it is owned by the State or Federal government, it would
not be.
Freerks opened public hearing, and invited the applicants to speak.
Rockne Cole of 1607 E. Court said he wants to discuss why CB -5 is appropriate for this
location. He said on the map presented tonight, the MidAmerican power station is zoned CB -5.
He said what the applicants are asking the Commission to do is to expand that existing zoning
on that block. He said the location has never had anything higher than one or two stories on it —
he said no one had even thought about putting an Iowa City Sears Tower on this location
before. He said he believes the community has recoiled in shock from the idea that a building
will suddenly shoot up as much as ten times higher than the adjacent areas. He said that past
use dictates a CB -5 zone here.
Cole said he thinks the most critical point is the neighbors. He stated that zoning is about
community, respect for neighbors and allowing the whole community to have access to Planning
decisions. He implored the Commission to listen to what the neighbors at Trinity Church have to
say. He said he has been most disheartened that Trinity Church, good neighbors who have long
served the community well, hasn't really been heard. He said there is the possibility that with
CB -10 zoning they will leave downtown. He asked the Commission to listen to the neighbors,
the people who will be most directly affected by this zoning. He said this is all about protecting
neighborhoods, and he cited the case of Pam Michaud, who now has a four story building
directly behind her house, with the prospect of something that's five times larger than that not
far away.
Cole read directly from the Downtown Planning District where it states that "as the downtown
prospers, care should be taken in providing proper transitions between intensity of downtown
development and surrounding residential neighborhoods ". He said he doesn't feel that such
care has been taken in this process, so he asked the Commission to be the ones who take care
that Trinity's concerns are addressed. He said the Central Business District is where the most
density occurs, and he said he thinks everyone can agree that College Green is less dense. He
said the applicants are asking the Commission to provide the transition between the two.
Cole summarized by saying that zoning is for allowing access for the community for those of the
community who don't have millions of dollars in TIF money to have a say. He asked the
Commission to listen to the neighbors and decide in favor of CB -5 zoning, then let the City
Council explain to the community why they made this rash, unpredictable and unforeseen
decision.
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 18, 2013 - Formal
Page 3 of 13
Mark McCallum of 1610 Crescent Street distributed pictures to the Commission showing a view
from College Green Park toward the downtown. He said you can see how the city is already
encroaching upon the park area. He stressed that the applicants are not against development
on this corner, but asked if it had to be the tallest building in Iowa City. He argued that once you
build the tallest building on the proposed site, that's going to re- establish the city center, and all
the other development is going to revolve around that.
Jon Fogarty of 1111 Church St. said there is a somewhat grand vision for how downtown is
supposed to grow south of the Central Business District, and if The Chauncey is as great as it's
been cracked up to be, why wouldn't we want it in this new area where public funds are targeted
for redevelopment of land that is in dire of need of new cash, new activity and new vision. He
said all the criteria that the staff has listed as reasons for the desirability of CB -10 zoning on the
subject property also fit numerous sites in the Riverfront Crossings areas. He said the City
Council's plan lacks the vision that this parcel demands. He said this is a highly desirable piece
of land that fits better with the CB -5 zone and has more flexibility to meet some development
needs while being good neighbors and still supporting the existing CB -10 zone. He urged the
Commission to look at how the staff's set of criteria in the staff report apply to properties in the
Riverfront Crossings area.
Rudolph Kuenzli of 705 S. Summit Street said his concern is if this parcel is zoned CB -10 at a
future date, it will be spot zoned demanded by City Council. He said if that happens, he's afraid
that our City Council will no longer be able to stand up to developers' demands for making
similar exceptions to the Comprehensive Plan. He said this land currently belongs to all of us,
and we should oppose such a break with the Comprehensive Plan, a break that we are asked to
subsidize with TIF.
Charles Stanier of 529 Brown Street distributed a report of calculations of shadow length of a
two hundred foot tall building versus a seventy -five foot tall building on various parts of Trinity
Church at different times of the day and the year. He summarized that the higher building would
create significantly more shadow than the seventy -five building for at least one -third of the year.
Eastham asked Stanier if his calculations were coordinated to reflect the times of the worship
services. Stanier said they were.
Ben Webb pastor of Trinity Episcopal Church said at the Commission's work session this past
Monday, he heard from staff that transitional zones are not well defined in the City Plan, but the
general expectation is that they will provide a buffer between high intensity and lower intensity
uses to protect the neighborhoods. He said that rezoning the eastern side of College and Gilbert
Streets to CB -5 would be consistent with the progression of uses that currently exist. He said
that rezoning to CB -10 would constitute a step back up in intensity. He said the height of the
building will influence construction costs and TIF requests and thus other public values that
Trinity advocates, such as environmentally sustainable construction and provision for workforce
housing. He said Trinity understands that sustainable development is much more difficult as
building height increases, and many of those kinds of development are much more expensive
on the front end. He said the lax City Code doesn't demand enough of developers in achieving
sustainable building. He also said that the height of a CB -10 building would be more likely to
yield residential units that are too expensive to accomplish the stated goals of increasing the
amount of workforce housing near downtown. Lastly, he said they are very concerned about the
amount of shadow that would be produced by a CB -10 building, much more than what a CB -5
building would produce for at least one -third of the year.
Phil Beck of 2230 Russell Drive mentioned how the area in question, as stated in "Iowa 2030" is
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 18, 2013 - Formal
Page 4 of 13
eventually intended to be included in the Central District Plan. He said this document states that
it will be used as a general guide to future development or redevelopment within the district and
for preserving valuable assets already present within established neighborhoods. He said it also
states that staff, the Commission and City Council will use the Plan as a guide when reviewing
development in rezoning requests, and any effective planning effort must take into account the
existing local conditions and any community -wide goals and policies that have already been
agreed upon.
Beck said that another part of the Central District Plan says that a goal of future development or
redevelopment within this Plan is to provide for an attractive and functional transition between
residential areas and adjacent commercial areas through management of traffic, landscape
buffering and screening, and outdoor lighting. He read from another portion of the Plan that
states that residential density and building bulk and height should gradually decrease the further
these areas are from the Central Business District in order to provide a transition to lower
density residential areas that surround the downtown. He said he doesn't think this language is
at all ambiguous. He said the Central District Plan specifically recommends that the height of
buildings decrease the further one gets from downtown. He said the 2030 Plan intends for this
site to eventually be part of the Central District Plan, so it needs to be zoned appropriately. He
said CB -5 would restrict the height to something proportional to the surrounding area as the
Central District Plan intends. He said a CB -10 zone would open the area to the kind of
development that the Central District Plan does not endorse, but rather specifically argues
against.
Adrianne Behning of 1100 E. Jefferson Street said she has never attended a City meeting
before, but she feels passionate enough about this issue that now is the time to start. She said
Iowa City doesn't need to compete with bigger Midwestern cities by growing bigger and shinier
and more expensive. She said she can understand the reasons for the City wanting the chosen
project because of its tax money and return from property taxes, new businesses and growth,
but to her it feels wrong for Iowa City. She said we want to be a destination city, but to do that
we need to retain our small town character. She said Iowa City is exploding with developments
right now, and although it can be a good thing, if we move too fast, we aren't going to recognize
ourselves. She said if we want to be the city that we have come to be loved for then we need to
look very carefully at what is developed here. She said, ultimately, this is not all about height or
the money, but it's about how our City government listens to us and whether or not we feel we
have some say in the type of community we become.
Regenia Bailey of 310 Reno Street claimed that this discussion became concerned about scale
and scope when one particular business was left out of the chosen development. She said this
block is already pretty intensively developed with a parking garage. She said the Request for
Development (RFP) was pretty clear about what was desired, and none of the finalists would
have been allowed in a CB -5 zone. She said that suggests to her an economic feasibility and
viability for what needs to be built here to fulfill the community desires for the kind of building we
want on this corner. She said she doesn't think the shadow on Trinity is going to be the
strongest argument for a CB -5 zone, as any building on the subject site will create some
shadow. She said we sell ourselves short when we build a shorter building that doesn't return as
much to the citizens of Iowa City.
Evan Fales of 1215 Oakcrest Street said he wants to place this in a much larger context. He
said about twenty years ago, he started thinking about the growth rate of Iowa City and the
political climate that seems uniformly to appreciate growth. He said he has been tracking the
census figures for decades. He said if Iowa City continues at its current growth rate, in another
one - hundred and fifty years it will be the size of Los Angeles. He said people claim that it will
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 18, 2013 - Formal
Page 5 of 13
stop growing before that. He questioned whether it will stop growing because it will become so
unattractive that people won't want to live here or because people have enough foresight to
think hard about the long distance. He said we get to long distances by three percent
increments every year, by variances in zoning and exceptions that get made and all sorts of
other market forces and things that are putting pressure on us for the short term. He said he is
here to speak for his grandchildren, because we need to think about them and what kind of
community they will inherit.
Cecile Kuenzli of 705 South Summit Street said this is a ridiculous "wanna -be" building that
wants to be somewhere else — Chicago or some other big city — but not in Iowa City, a block
from a historic district on a site where it's surrounded by four story buildings at the highest. She
related how in her small university hometown many years ago, an administrator left his mark on
campus by having a building erected near the original university building that was six times as
high as the buildings around it. She said to this day locals still ridicule this inappropriate and out
of place building. She urged the Commission to approve the rezoning to CB -5 because it is
most appropriate for the site and so as to avoid a public embarrassment in Iowa City.
Chelsea Bacon of 1211 E. Burlington Street said she is also in favor of the CB -5 zoning.
Janiece Piltingsrud of Coralville said she works in the area of the subject property and has seen
four new structures in the area in the past year, and none of them are more than six stories. She
said she believes that most of them are zoned as CB -5.She said that whatever is built on the
corner of Gilbert and College Streets will last a long time, and she hopes that the Commission
will give Council a well thought -out decision about the rezoning.
Pam Michaud of 109 S. Johnson Street showed the Commission images of streetscapes in the
area of the subject property to show what has been lost in the past two years and what can be
lost in the future. She said the parking ramp is only three and four stories high, although it has
been termed by one speaker as highly developed. She showed existing buildings from the
1870s in the area. She showed the block of Washington Street where ten businesses have
been displaced and the Bradley Building will face the wrecking ball. She said the City gives a lot
of lip service to supporting small businesses, but it didn't keep these alive because of the
intense development. She took issue with the new building on the site of the former Red
Avocado. She said Gilbert Street is the natural dividing line for protecting historic districts.
Mary Gravitt of 2714 Wayne Street disagreed with the former mayor that this building is about
money and business. She said the community is against the twenty story building. She said
many in the community are willing to take the financial loss in order to protect their private
property. She said the business she is in favor of is the New Pioneer Co -op, which is a part of
Iowa City culture. She said it's on a flood plain, and the City won't consider that. She took issue
with the use of the term "workforce housing ", and said that refers to the immigrants who came
over in steerage. She said we are talking about housing for citizens, and they are not workforce,
but workers, who need affordable housing.
Ashley Shields of 913 Dewey Street said she doesn't think that the community wants a huge,
high rise building. She said she doesn't have any friends or neighbors who want this huge
building. She said they want a building kept in scale with the neighborhood.
Louise Young of 320 E. Washington Street said that as a member of Trinity Episcopal Church,
she knows how much they do for the community at times other than during worship service. She
said they need a comfortable place for the people they reach out to, and a mammoth building
doesn't make anyone comfortable. She asked what would happen to a twenty story building if
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 18, 2013 - Formal
Page 6 of 13
we got hit by a tornado comparable to the one several years ago. She said that needs to be
considered. She said the City could have done much better in choosing one of the projects that
offered more affordable housing units. She said this proposed building does not offer a very
good percentage of that type of housing. She asked what is going on when the City first states
that they would like New Pioneer to have a space in that area and then they choose the one
proposal that doesn't include it.
Hannan Papineschi of 905 S. 7th Avenue showed a three dimensional model of the transitional
zone fashioned out of Legos and indicated how a twenty story building would look. She said she
thinks the CB -5 zone and a lower building will fit in much better with the surroundings.
Paul Hanley of 518 Meadow Street said he is there to speak in support of the staff
recommendation to keep the zoning as it is now. He agrees with the comment of the applicant
that this is a great exercise in getting the publics' voice heard in local government, and he is
completely supportive of that, but he doesn't see how that relates back to the merits of changing
the zoning from P to CB -5. He said he thinks the comments of the speakers support leaving
zoning the way it is for the time being.
Yale Cohn who works for the Public Access Channel said he thinks that everyone has come out
tonight because when something has the potential to happen in Iowa City that might have less
than positive results we come together. He said when the Council chose The Chauncey as their
preferred choice, emotions in the community ranged from taken aback to astonished that the
Council would make that choice. He said the Commission is in a good position to help steer the
Council toward abiding by the Comprehensive Plan. He said the proposed structure is a good
building, but this is not the right place for it.
Dana Thomann of 208 Fairchild Street said that Iowa City is really disappointing her right now
because it isn't sticking to its strategic plan as it said that it would. She said the Commission
should think about the slippery slope the city has been going down with all the new buildings
that are being built. She said her generation is not into development for development's sake but
are rather in favor of smart development, and she doesn't think that CB -10 here is smart.
Will Downing of 411 S. Summit Street said this is already a substantially urban zone, with the
transitional zone to the east of it, and he favors the proposed building that would bring new
things to do to the area.
Mary Bennett of 1107 Muscatine Avenue said it's very disturbing to her that this kind of major
transformation will take place without due consideration. She said she thinks Council abdicated
some of their responsibility by not examining their criteria carefully. She said she feels that
decisions so far have been driven by profit and by the need to increase the tax base. She said
she has been at enough Planning and Zoning Commission meetings to know that there other
sources of tax revenue planned, like the unfortunate office park that will take up the last rural
land at the entrance to Iowa City and all the redevelopment south of Burlington. She pleaded
with the Commission not to do that in the subject area because far too many in the community
object to it, and it goes against our core values about the historic character of the community.
Erin Fleck of 1506 Crescent Street spoke about the character and charm and texture of Iowa
City. She said to her, this building blots out the openings for connection and community you find
in Chauncey Swan Park. She said she thinks parking in the Chauncey Ramp may be a concern,
as it is already well used and to add a twenty story building to the mix might well push parking
onto the street. She said if the City is going to move toward higher density growth, they need to
reconsider the Code and the fact that there aren't enough transitional, systematic ways of
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 18, 2013 - Formal
Page 7 of 13
grading buildings. She said the way it is now prevents planning within scale as the zones jump
from a seventy -five foot height limit to unlimited in the CB -10 zone.
Jiyun Park of 20 Rocky Shore Drive said she thinks the subject site is something of a legacy
site. She said she loves the tall buildings in New York City and Chicago, but not here. She said
Chicago has very strict guidelines that protect their light and green space. She said if there is
anywhere else that the winning proposal could be developed, she thinks it would be an
enormous asset to the City, but she doesn't feel that on the subject site they ought to be doing
more than C13-5.
Freerks called for a five minute break, after which she called the meeting back to order.
Liz Moon of 423 Ronalds Street said there are grade differences in the area, and cited the
parking ramp as an example of a four story structure that feels shorter when viewed from certain
directions because part of it is on a lower level. She said whatever building is put on the subject
site is going to feel even higher than it really is at the Gilbert Street level. She said structures
are going to feel taller there from certain sides by virtue of the typography, so zoning that allows
an extremely tall building makes it that much worse in terms of how it will feel to be living and
moving around that space.
Freerks closed public hearing.
Eastham moved to recommend approval of REZ13- 00009, a request for rezoning from
Public (P -1) zone to Central Business Support (CB -5) zone for the northeast corner of
Gilbert and College Streets.
Thomas seconded the motion.
Thomas said this is the kind of meeting Iowa City needs for the Comprehensive Plan to come
alive. He read the statement that follows:
"To understand the appropriate zoning for the College /Gilbert site, I have looked at the
Comprehensive Plan's vision for the Downtown Planning District as a whole, which includes the
Downtown and the areas surrounding it. Given that vision, what is the proper height and size for
a building at the corner of College and Gilbert?
1. Downtown District
The Downtown /Riverfront Crossings Plan, adopted earlier this year, aims to preserve the
Downtown's pedestrian - friendly urban character, while promoting quality infill and
redevelopment. This is what it says about the density of future development:
• Of the 13 development opportunities remaining in the Downtown District, nine sites are 4
to 5- stories. The remaining four sites are 8 to 9- stories.
• Thus, despite the Downtown's CB -10 zoning designation allowing unrestricted building
heights and the greatest intensity of use, most future construction will be well under CB-
5's 75 -foot height limit. The four buildings exceeding that height limit will do so by 2 to 3-
stories.
• In addition, the building height development standard along the Downtown's eastern
edge, directly across Gilbert St. from the College /Gilbert site, is 2 to 6- stories. This
height standard also falls within the building height allowed under C13-5.
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 18, 2013 - Formal
Page 8 of 13
2. South Downtown District
Since the early 1990s, the City has viewed the area south of Burlington Street as the only
direction to expand the Downtown. In a Staff Report to the Planning and Zoning Commission in
July 2006 concerning the Hieronymus property at the southeast corner of Burlington /Clinton,
under the analysis of the Comprehensive Plan, staff notes:
"The plan to expand downtown to the south also supports the policy of preserving the historic
neighborhoods to the north and east of the central business district by providing a location for
growth away from these neighborhoods." In the same Staff Report, staff goes on to say that
mixed use development, including high -rise residential use, would be better developed south of
Burlington rather than in the core of downtown, "where a desirable mix, scale and streetscape
are already in place and should be preserved ".
Consistent with this policy, City Council approved the rezoning of the Hieronymus property from
CB -5 to CB -10 in 2006. When City Council approved the 12 -story Hieronymus Square project
that same year, many Council members mentioned that they supported the project in part
because it was an important step in expanding Downtown to the south.
The Downtown /Riverfront Crossings Plan continues to stress expanding the Downtown south of
Burlington Street. The aptly named South Downtown District, between Burlington and Harrison,
identifies 29 building sites, with over 1.5 million square feet of development, including 1 million
square feet of residential development and 136,000 square feet of office space. Of the 29 sites,
7 sites are over 6- stories, including two buildings over 10- stories (one of which is the
Hieronymus site).
So looking forward, the South Downtown District will by far see the most growth, and the
greatest concentration of buildings exceeding CB -5's 75 -foot height limit.
3. East Side Transition Zone
The most recent discussion of the east side transition zone was in 2005, one year before the
Hieronymus property was rezoned CB -10. In July 2005, the City considered rezoning various
CB -2 properties, including those in the transition zone less than two blocks wide between
Gilbert and Johnson Streets.
In the Staff Report from July 15, Staff noted:
• 'There are a number of zoning designations that could replace the CB -2 designation. "'
Freerks interrupted to say that what they really need to have right now is discussion. Eastham
said he would be happy to have Thomas finish the piece. Freerks asked Thomas to finish his
statement, but said that it's important to come to the meeting with an open mind and to be able
to discuss it, and what she really wants is discussion about the merits of the application
Thomas continued:
• "Staff considered the best fit for particular properties, and they looked at the surrounding
zoning, the existing land uses in the area, and how a particular zoning might affect the
surrounding neighborhood."
Taking those factors into consideration, staff proposed CB -5 for the two privately owned
properties surrounded by public properties: the Unitarian Church at the corner of Iowa /Gilbert,
and the Mid - American property that makes up the eastern side of the College /Gilbert
development site. This zoning recommendation was approved by City Council, and it is what we
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 18, 2013 - Formal
Page 9 of 13
have today.
What is the purpose of the CB -5 zone? Staff stated that:
• 'The CB -5 zone is intended to allow for the orderly expansion of the Central Business
District and to enhance the pedestrian orientation of the central area of the city. CB -5
would allow for a density and scale similar to that found downtown and on the University
property.'
This last sentence is very important:
• With a handful of exceptions, the buildings in the Downtown, including the west side of
Gilbert Street, reflect a height and size within CB -5 standards. As noted earlier, most
future Downtown development will also reflect CB -5 zoning."
Thomas concluded by saying that those are the kinds of considerations that would go into his
decision but what he is saying to sum it up is that the direction of the city in the downtown
seems to be CB -5 based on what's there now and what's proposed and that if we are going to
build CB -10 densities the emphasis is going to be south of Burlington Street for that density.
Greenwood Hektoen reminded Thomas to consider this application separately from any other
application sent before him, just like he always does. She said that past rezoning changes or
applications have no precedential value on this current application but in the context of the
Comprehensive Plan she said he had valid points.
Eastham said looking at past applications, while they can't serve as precedents, can help him
get an idea how the Comprehensive Plan is being interpreted. He said he has benefitted from all
the comments made by the public during the past two meetings. He said for this application he
tried to limit himself to what is appropriate to the application. He said this is an application to
rezone from public designation to CB -5, and the purpose of the CB -5 zone as put forth in the
Zoning Code includes serving as a transition between the intense use located in the Central
Business District and adjoining areas. He said he thinks that all decisions he makes need to be
based upon the Comprehensive Plan. He said the 1997 Plan is the one he is applying in this
case. He has to look at what the Zoning Code says about each zoning area and its function, and
one of the functions of a CB -5 zone is to provide a transitional area. He said the Comprehensive
Plan for the area under consideration calls for a transitional zone so that implies to him that a
CB -5 would be appropriate for this application.
Freerks said she has given this much thought. She said she knows and admires many people
on both sides of this issue, and it has been a difficult decision. She said what it comes down to
is what is the best use of this parcel, and she can't say that a six story building on that parcel is
the best use. She said she feels that a twenty story isn't the best use either, that it would be
completely out of character for that area. She said what she really wants to look at is the merits
of the application and CB -5, and she feels that there might be constraints on CB -5 and it would
be better to go in another direction. She said she wants to be very clear that a twenty story
building on that piece of land is not appropriate. She said she has strong feelings about scale
and density, and she thinks scale and density have been abused in many places in our
community, and she doesn't want to see that occur in this spot. She said we have unfortunately
already seen the transitional zone carry farther to the east, and she doesn't want to see it go
further in that direction, and she thinks that historic districts will help to protect that. She said
she doesn't think that what City Council has put out there is what she wants to see there, but
neither is she sure that CB -5 is what should be placed on this property.
Martin said she wishes that there was an in between. Freerks said she thinks there is still an
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 18, 2013 - Formal
Page 10 of 13
opportunity for both sides to alter and shape what goes on here. She said this has been a good
discussion, and it's all important to the real and final decision, which is made by City Council.
Martin said she doesn't think any zoning designation has to be the maximum of what that zoning
allows. She said in thinking about best use, she's not sure that CB -5 is that, nor is she sure that
CB -10 is either. She said she is very conflicted. She said what she is thinking about is the
opportunity for what kind of building goes in here, perhaps a LEED certified building. She said to
have that kind of building perhaps it needs to be a lesser density.
Freerks said she thinks there are a number of zones in the Comprehensive Plan that would
work in that area. She said there are a number of buildings in the CB -10 zone in the downtown
that she wants to see protected better. She said perhaps this would be the opportunity to think
about pursuing some sort of historic designation for downtown. She said the scale of some of
buildings downtown make Iowa City the beautiful place it is.
Weitzel said he thinks it's very important whether you do set the precedent that you are going to
preserve some buildings at a certain height despite the underlying zone that you provide relief
elsewhere. He said when we can develop larger and better value for the community it's really
important that we develop in allowable height. He said districts are useful. He said he thinks it's
important in our densest part of town that we provide relief so that somebody who wants to
develop large in this area can. He said he doesn't think we are going to lose our character that
easily. He doesn't think CB -5 is the best zoning, and he's perplexed about a zoning notion
without a building to go with it. He said he doesn't think that rezoning this parcel at this point is
appropriate. Weitzel said it's too soon to be thinking about this because they don't have a
proposal.
Martin said people hated the Chauncey Swan parking ramp when it was built but people love it
now and use it and she added that there was also an uproar when the Pedestrian Mall came
about, but these are now appreciated parts of the downtown.
Swygard said she doesn't know what belongs there, but to zone at this point is premature. She
said her tendency is to go with CB -5. She said she doesn't think it would be useful to put a very
large building there, no matter if that is fifteen or twelve stories. She said is inclined to keep the
zoning as it is for the time being.
Dyer said there's not a decision to make here that's connected to a plan that we can see all the
particulars of. She said perhaps this discussion will have an impact on the negotiations that are
currently underway between the City and the developer. She says she knows from personal
experience how much light and shade can impact an area negatively. She noted that Dubuque
is called The City of Churches, and she realized when she was last there that all the churches in
town rise above their surroundings, so she's concerned about the effect of development on
Trinity. She says she doesn't think the Commission has the information to make a decision
arbitrarily at this point. She said she had been thinking about abstaining, but she thinks she will
vote against the proposal with the same reservations that other people have about what will be
appropriate. She said there may be some comprises that might be more agreeable than what
they think will be proposed.
Freerks said she doesn't want people to take away from this that it's a failure or a triumph. She
said what they are doing here is having a discussion about what is appropriate in our community
for everybody. She said it's public property, and what is put there has to reflect the values of the
community.
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 18, 2013 - Formal
Page 11 of 13
Eastham pointed out that if the 2030 Comprehensive Plan update remains in its present form, it
will provide an excellent chance for the community and the developer to look at this general
area as well as one further north and make some decisions in an organized way about what are
the best uses in terms of redevelopment for this area and whether extending higher density,
higher buildings east of Gilbert Street is a useful step for the community to take or not. He said
his preference is that the use of this particular site be decided after the planning process is
undertaken.
Freerks said that this transition area and the one to the north are things that the Commission
hopes to discuss soon, so that this same situation doesn't arise in other areas. She said her
thought is to talk about mixed use and how to use existing structures in our community and not
necessarily have to redevelop all of them.
Dyer said the discussion tonight and that of two weeks ago has been the most valuable that
she's witnessed in her tenure on the Commission. She said she as well as other people have
learned a lot from it. She said that most of the discussion has not been self - serving in any way,
but rather a discussion about what's going to happen to a piece of public property, and she
values that.
Martin said she wanted to thank the public for coming forward to speak. She favored the idea
that two different speakers had of taking a breath and looking at the whole picture.
A vote was taken and the motion was denied 2 -5 with Dyer, Freerks, Martin, Swygard and
Weitzel opposed.
Consideration of Meeting Minutes: April 1 and April 4, 2013
Eastham moved to adopt the minutes with corrections.
Martin seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7 -0.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS
Eastham moved to elect Freerks as Chairperson for another term.
Weitzel seconded.
There was no discussion.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 6 -0.
Swygard moved to elect Eastham as Vice - Chair.
Martin seconded.
There was no discussion.
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 18, 2013 - Formal
Page 12 of 13
A vote was taken and the motion carried 6 -0.
Eastham moved to elect Swygard as Secretary.
Martin seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 6 -0.
DISCUSSION OF WORK PROGRAM
Dyer moved to defer to May 2.
Eastham seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7 -0.
OTHER
Greenwood - Hektoen asked if the Commission wished to have a consultation with City Council
regarding the pending zoning amendments affecting fraternal uses if Council is asked to make
an exception for Justin Mulford's project, which would be contrary to the Commission's
recommendation.
The Commission said they wished to have a consultation.
Freerks thanked Tim Weitzel for his years of service on the Commission.
ADJOURNMENT:
Eastham moved to adjourn.
Martin seconded.
The meeting was adjourned on a 7 -0 vote.
Z
O
U)
U)
O
V
CD
Z_
Z
N
06
O
Z_
Z
Z
Q
J
a
G
Ix
0 z
W
it W
W w
N
Z N Q
Z N
W 0
F-
LL
r E
w
MXXXXXXX
:!�XXXxxxx
XX
-
XXXX
Nxxxxxxx
M
M0XxxxXX
0 W
X
X
x
X
X
LU
X
N
N
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
,xxxxxxx
X
X
x
X
X
x
X
r
QOxxxxxo
xxxxxxx
So
N
x
x
x
O
x
x
x
�0
0XXX0
W)
XXXXXXX
V-
XXXXXXD
MXXXXXXX
V-
00
oXXXXXWX
000XXXXOO
O
oxxxxxxx
V-
�xxxxxxo
V-Xxxxxx�
T
T
T
T
LO
T
If)M
T
T
{(
Lf
r
t"
T
T
r
r
T
W a
16
16
Zn
Z ?5
16
W
W
zw >-
W
Z
W
Z
-
QZW�Z
Q
a0�
=
J
=va
2
=a0�
Q
2
Q�yao
Y
(L
a
N
W
Q
V
=OC—
y
=
Z
Q
Q
W
W
ae
_
�
Z
—
Q
N N
W
Q�QOCQ
Q
l
0
=W
N
z
W
LL
2(01
-3:
Z
I-
W
W
O
LL
Z
T-Xxxxxxx
C)
XX
-
XXXX
MXXXXXXX
Nxxxxxxx
Re
0 W
Nxxxx�Xx
T
M
j
X
X
x
X
X
x
X
QOxxxxxo
�0
0XXX0
XXXXXXD
co
MxxXxoxo
000XXXXOO
Nxxxxxxx
CD
MXXXXXXX
�wCOCOMI-
N
T
T
T
T
LO
T
If)M
T
T
{(
w m
(
LO
0
LO
0
LO
0
0
0
U')
0
0
0
n
0
W
W
zw >-
Q
Z
W
Z
Ova
=
Q
a0�
=
Q�yao
Y
a
N
W
V
=OC—
Z
Q
W
ae
-
LU
Q
=
N N
W
Q>.
ZCWLL2NI
Q
l
-�S
y
X
w
w �
CD
aQQ
n n u
xoo
w
Y
054443
5b(10)
IOWA CITY TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION APPROVED
MONDAY, MARCH 25,2013--5:30 P.M.
CITY CABLE TV OFFICE, 10 S. LINN ST. -TOWER PLACE PARKING FACILITY
MEMBERS PRESENT: Alexa Homewood, Matt Butler, Laura Bergus
MEMBERS ABSENT: Nicholas Kilburg, Bram Elias
STAFF PRESENT: Mike Brau, Bob Hardy, Ty Coleman
OTHERS PRESENT: Josh Goding, Alicia Hoerschelman, Hans Hoerschelman
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL
None at this time.
SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION
Hoerschelman said he appeared in a broadcast television interview about the broadband survey that
was heavily edited to appear that the City was dissatisfied with Mediacom and CenturyLink.
A flyer will be going out in the water bills promoting the survey. There are about 200 responses at this
point. Brau said about 375 responses are needed. Hoerschelman said that after the survey report is
finished it might be productive to have a public forum to gather input before any recommendation is
presented to the City Council. Mediacom is working with the University of Iowa and Iowa State
University to run programs on Mediacom channel 22. The University access channel will not be
affected. Coleman reported that the City Channel staff won a couple of awards from the Midwest
Region of the Alliance for Community Media. Hardy said he met with the City's executive team and
they decided not to pursue a joint facility. One consideration was that PATV's renter would need to be
displaced. Hardy said a joint facility appeared to be a good plan but upon a close look it did not save
that much money. In the final analysis it didn't seem a joint facility was economically feasible at the
moment. Hardy said his scenario anticipates being able to fund PATV for 8 -10 years based on the
amount of funds planned to be set aside in a reserve fund. The City executive team thinks the City
Council should reconsider their commitment to the local access cable channels when the franchise
expires in five years. Hardy said he has been unable to identify any funding models for public access
operations other than from a municipality's franchise fee or from the cable company. Bergus said that
in regards to the memo Hardy is preparing that if she were on the City Council she would want a
recommendation from the Commission. It would be ill- advised for the City Council discussion on
their commitment to local cable access to be premised on the direction given to Hardy by the city
management. The Commission should preserve an opportunity to educate the City Council on why the
funds spent on local access operations are funds well spent. If the plan for future funding involves
making the access channels less vital now, when the decision needs to be made a future Council may
have an attitude that PATV and the City Channel have been proceeding down a path of reduced
services and that path should be continued. Butler said that setting aside funds for the future just
delays the inevitable. It might be preferable to use those funds now to the best possible use and then
point to the results at the end of the five years as an example of the value of the local access operations
to the community rather than scale back and do less now. Homewood asked if the Commission will
get a copy of the memo Hardy is preparing regarding creating a reserve fund. Hardy said the memo
will be addressed to the Commission.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS
Homewood nominated Bergus for Commission chair. Butler seconded the nomination. Bergus was
unanimously elected chair. Bergus nominated Homewood for vice chair. Butler seconded the
nomination. Homewood was elected vice - chair.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Butler moved and Homewood seconded a motion to approve the amended February 25, 2013 minutes.
The motion passed unanimously.
ANNOUNCEMENTS OF COMMISSIONERS
Bergus presented Hoerschelman a certificate of appreciation for his service on the Commission.
Hoerschelman said he has enjoyed his time on the Commission and that he will continue to work on
the broadband survey.
SHORT PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS
None.
BROADBAND SURVEY
Hoerschelman said he appeared in a broadcast television interview about the broadband survey that
was heavily edited to appear that the City was dissatisfied with Mediacom and CenturyLink. The
interview did generate numerous responses to the survey. A public service announcement was
produced by the City Channel with Hoerschelman talking about the survey. The school district has not
yet promoted the survey. The University of Iowa is still in their bureaucratic process. A flyer will be
going out in the water bills. There are about 200 responses at this point. Brau said about 375
responses are needed. Brau distributed a document with initial tallies of responses but without any
analysis. Hoerschelman noted that a surprising number of people reported that they use the Internet
from home for work purposes. Hoerschelman said he was also surprised that a majority of respondents
did not know their download speed or if they had a data cap. Any Commissioner who wish to have
access to the results need to get a log in account from Hoerschelman. Hoerschelman said that after the
survey report is finished it might be productive to have a public forum to gather input before any
recommendation is presented to the City Council. Brau said a preliminary framework for how to
analyze the date would be available for the next meeting. Brau noted that the respondents with just a
high school education and those between the ages of 41 -65 are under - represented at this point
compared to census data for this area.
CONSUMER ISSUES
Hardy referred to the complaint report in the meeting packet and said all complaints have been
resolved.
MEDIACOM REPORT
Because the broadband survey agenda item was moved to the first of the meeting Grassley would not
be able to be reached by phone. Bergus asked Hardy to provide a list of the items the Commission has
mentioned in the past that they wished to address to Grassley. Hardy said he did not think there were
any outstanding items and suggested if Commissioners have questions they should forward them to
him.
LOCAL ACCESS CHANNELS REPORTS
Bergus noted that PATV distributed a report at the meeting. The City Channel and the library
provided written reports for the meeting packet. Homewood asked Hardy if he had contacted the
University of Iowa and Kirkwood about providing reports to the Commission. Hardy said he learned
that the person in charge of the Kirkwood channel has retired. Hardy called Kirkwood and was
transferred to that person's answering machine but the name was inaudible. Hardy talked with the
person running the University of Iowa channel. Hardy informed the University staff the Commission
is interested in being informed of their activities. Mediacom is working with the University of Iowa
and Iowa State University to run programs on Mediacom channel 22. The University access channel
will not be affected. Coleman reported that the City Channel staff won a couple of awards from the
Midwest Region of the Alliance for Community Media.
CABLE TV ADMINISTRATOR REPORT
Hardy said the PATV contract is not yet finalized. The current extension runs until June 30.
JOINT ACCESS FACILITY
Hardy said he met with the City's executive team and they decided not to pursue a joint facility. One
consideration was that PATV's renter would need to be displaced. Hardy said funds need to be saved
now in anticipation of the reduction in funding in five years. Hardy said his scenario anticipates being
able to fund PATV for 8 -10 years based on the amount of funds to be set aside in a reserve fund. A
five -year contract with PATV is contemplated. The City executive team thinks the City Council
should reconsider their commitment to local access cable channels when the franchise expires in five
years. Hardy said he has been unable to identify any funding models for public access operations other
than from a municipality's franchise fee or from the cable company. Hardy said he is working on
another memo that will outline the details. Hardy is not yet sure if the memo should go to the
Commission or the City Council. Butler said that the joint facility was the central feature of a plan to
save money for a long time and asked if that idea is off the table completely or just for the time being.
Hardy said a joint facility is off the immediate table but might come up again in the future. Hardy said
a joint facility appeared to be a good plan, but upon a closer look it did not save that much money. The
City facility is paid for and only incurs operating cost. PATV's mortgage is covered by the cost of
their tenant's rent. If the City Channel were to move into the PATV facility, those funds would need
to be made up. In addition, the City Channel would need to make significant expenditures to modify
that space. In the final analysis it didn't seem a joint facility was economically feasible at the moment.
Bergus said that in regards to the memo Hardy is preparing that if she were on the City Council she
would want a recommendation from the Commission. It would be ill- advised for the City Council
discussion of commitment to local cable access to be premised on the direction given to Hardy by the
city management. The Commission should preserve an opportunity to educate the City Council on
why the funds spent on local access operations are funds well spent. Bergus asked if the Council's
evaluation of access operations in the future would coincide with PATV's contract renewal at the end
of June. Hardy said it would likely occur as the end of the franchise approaches. Hardy said he
anticipates recommending that as January 2018 approaches that the Council begin to address and make
decisions to be initiated in August 2018. Bergus said that there needs to be an educational component
to the funding plan for the future. If the plan for future funding involves making the access channels
less vital now, when the decision needs to be made a future Council may have an attitude that PATV
and the City Channel have been proceeding down a path of reduced services and that path should be
continued. The Commission could begin to educate the Council on the value of local access operations
now and establish a record that access is a valuable community resource that needs to be protected to
the extent possible. Butler said that setting aside funds for the future just delays the inevitable. It
might be preferable to use those funds now to the best possible use and then point to the results at the
end of the five years as an example of the value of the local access operations to the community.
Hardy said that it possible to be converted to a state issued franchise at any time. If that were to
happen a significant savings in operational costs would be needed. That is what the access channels
should be doing now. Hardy said his plan to reduce costs could provide funding for the City Channel
and PATV for 15 years. Bergus said it is unwise to self - identify as inefficient. If there are
inefficiencies, providing more service could be a strategy to enhance the value of the access channels
to the community. Homewood asked if the Commission will get a copy of the memo Hardy is
preparing regarding creating a reserve fund. Hardy said the memo will be addressed to the
Commission
ADJOURNMENT
Homewood moved and Butler seconded a motion to adjourn. The motion was approved unanimously.
The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
*,V-P&
Michael Brau
Cable TV Administrative Aide
TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
12 MONTH ATTENDANCE RECORD
(X) = Present
(0) = Absent
(O /C) = Absent/Called (Excused)
Hoerschelman
Ber us
Homewood
5/28/11
X
X
X
X
x
6/27/11
x
o/c
x
x
X
8/27/11
x
x
x
o/c
X
9/24/11
X
X
X
X
X
10/24/11
X
X
X
X
X
11/26/11
X
X
vacant
X
X
Kilbur
2/25/12
X
X
x
x
X
Butler
3/26/12
o/c
x
o
x
X
4/23/12
X
X
X
X
X
5/21/12
X
X
X
X
X
6/25/12
X
X
X
X
X
7/23/12
x
X
X
X
X
8/27/12
x
x
x
x
X
9/24/12
X
X
X
X
X
10/22/12
X
X
X
X
X
11/26/12
X
X
X
X
X
12/17/12
X
X
X
X
X
1/28/13
X
o/c
X
X
X
2/25/13
X
X
X
X
X
Elias
3/25/13
o/c
x
o/c
x
X
4/22/13
x
x
x
x
0
(X) = Present
(0) = Absent
(O /C) = Absent/Called (Excused)