HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013-05-30 Info PacketCITY COUNCIL INFORMATION PACKET
CITY OF IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org May 30, 2013
IN Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
JUNE 4 WORK SESSION
IP2 Work Session Agenda
IP3 Memo from PW Dir. and Environmental Coordinator: Sustainability Assessment Report
completed
IN Memo from City Clerk: Council Appointee Evaluations
IP5 Pending Work Session Topics
MISCELLANEOUS
IP6 Memo from Asst. to the City Manager. Public Works Dir., and Finance Dir.: Expiration of
Iowa City's Local Option Sales Tax
Email from City Manager: Flood Update [Distributed to Council 5/30 as late handout]
DRAFT MINUTES
IP7 Police Citizens Review Board: May 29
IP8 Telecommunications Commission: April 22
Ix. �
CITY OF IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org
IN Council T
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION PACKET
Meeting Schedule
JUNE 4 WORK SESSION
IP2 Work Session Agenda \
IP3 Memo from PW Dir. and Envfronmental Coord
completed
IN Memo from City Clerk: Council Appdiptee
IP5 Pending Work Session Topics ,
May 30, 2013
Sustainability Assessment Report
uations
MIS LLA OUS
IP6 Memo from Asst. to the City Man ger. Public Work Dir., and Finance Dir.: Expiration of
Iowa City's Local Option Sales ax
DRAFT MINUTES
IP7 Police Citizens Review f3 ard: May 29
IP8 Telecommunications C mmission: April 22
r i IP1
.-, -A City Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
►� Subject to change May 30, 2013
14
CITY OF IOWA CITY
Date
Time
Meeting
Location
n
w
r
i
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
5:00 PM
Work Session Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
d ne
I I I
l
?fie °1w L4�fl Q
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
5:00 PM
Work Session Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
5:00 PM
Work Session Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Special Formal Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
5:00 PM
Work Session Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
fr
In
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
5:00 PM
Work Session Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
5:00 PM
Work Session Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
t
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
5:00 PM
Work Session Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
5:00 PM
Work Session Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
P
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
5:00 PM
Work Session Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
5:00 PM
Work Session Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Special Formal Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
Noon -6PM
Strategic Planning
TBA
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
5:00 PM
Work Session Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
Tuesday, December 17, 2013
5:00 PM
Work Session Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
AIlr �04 t '
CITY OF IOWA CITY
410 fast Washington Street
Iowa City. Iowa 52240 -1826
(3 19) 356 -5000
(3 19) 3S6 -S009 FAX
www.14C&Ov.org
City Council Work Session Agenda
June 4, 2013
5:00 PM
Emma J. Harvat Hall - City Hall
410 E. Washington Street
• Questions from Council re Agenda Items
• Council Appointments [# 13]
• Flooding Update
• Sustainability Assessment Report 2013 [IP # 3]
• Information Packet Discussion [May 16, 23, 30]
• Council Time
■ Meeting Schedule [IP # 4]
■ Pending Work Session Topics [IP # 5]
■ Upcoming Community Events /Council Invitations
Ault
` 140
CITY OF IOWA CITY IP3
MEMORANDUM
Date: May 29, 2013
To: Rick Fosse, Director of Public Works
From: Brenda Nations, Environmental Coordinator
Re: Sustainability Assessment Report completed
Attachment: Executive Summary for Sustainability Assessment Report
A report assessing Iowa City sustainability is now complete and a copy is included in the
information packet. A copy will be available on the City's web site soon. Attached is the
executive summary for this 100+ page document containing the highlights of the data analysis
for almost 60 sustainability indicators.
The purpose of this report was to analyze community -wide sustainability using data to provide
baseline information to prepare for upcoming sustainability planning. Indicators were chosen to
be similar to indicators which other cities use, as well as to give specific information unique to
our community. Iowa City has a long history of implementing sustainable best practices and the
data indicates that these efforts can be quantified. The community and the University both value
the concept of sustainability and many of the indicators relate to other efforts outside local
government operations. The most recent five years of data was gathered and compared to
state and national data (if available). The report shows that Iowa City is within or exceeding
acceptable levels in 34 of the indicators, below the desired level in 13 indicators, and 12
indicators are unclassified due to insufficient comparison data. Having baseline data will provide
valuable information for focus on the areas where work is most needed as well as identifying
what is working well. The City Manager's office will be guiding future work in deciding how to
best move forward once the report is published.
Funding for this work was provided through ARRA funds through the Energy Efficiency and
Conservation Block Grant, a three and a half year grant which was completed last week. This
grant also provided funds to conduct energy audits on eight of our largest facilities, implement
energy efficiency measures at four sites, automate our utility billing for city facilities, and provide
energy usage reports to facility managers. The sustainability assessment includes the
measurement of the success of these efforts in the Energy section of the report.
I look forward to presenting a summary of the report at the Council work session on Tues. June
4th
If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me at Brenda- nations(a)-iowa-
cit .or or 887 -6161.
The City began its efforts towards sustainability many years before the term
s became as commonly used as it is today. Iowa City was a pioneer in energy
conservation in the 1980s, implementing numerous energy conservation
programs and using a portion of the energy savings to fund additional projects.
More recently, from 1999 -2005, LED lighting was installed in City traffic signals,
cutting electrical usage for signals in half. In 2001, Sycamore Greenspace was
constructed. This green infrastructure contains 55 acres of wetland which serves
to manage stormwater and which also provides the City with a mulit -use
Iowa City
2013 Sustainability
Assessment
greenspace containing native plants, trails, public art and wildlife habitat. The
City -owned landfill began capturing and flaring landfill gas in 2001, which has
decreased greenhouse emissions from the landfill by 69 %. Iowa City's mayor
signed the Mayors Climate Protection agreement in 2007 and in 2009 was the
first City in Iowa to complete a community -wide greenhouse gas inventory and
emissions baseline data. In the last several years, many City departments have
begun partnering in sustainability projects with the University of Iowa, enhancing
the ability to broaden the work on sustainability within the community.
This assessment identifies specific indicators that coordinate with the vision and
broad set of goals set forth in IC2030, Iowa City's most recent Comprehensive
Plan and the City's Strategic Plan. The indicators will act as a source of
information for the next step of this process: the development of sustainability
goals and targets. In the process of sustainability goal setting, the City should
also consider sustainability goals set forth in the University of Iowa's 2020 Plan
so that aligned efforts of local government, business, non - profits, residents and
the University will combine to foster greater community progress.
Executive Summary Data for nearly 60 sustainability indicators in nine focus areas were compiled and
analyzed for this assessment. These indicators focus on the economic,
environmental and resource management, and social /cultural categories of
sustainability.
The nine focus areas included in the report are:
A Economic
'1
• Community Design and Transportation
• Energy
Water
• Waste Reduction
��. Natural Ecosystem
Housing
Community Wellness
Arts and Culture
The assessment conveys meaningful and measurable information about the
current status of the Iowa City community with respect to sustainability. Data
*a from 2007 serves as the baseline from which indicators in the following four
years are assessed. Comparisons between Iowa City, the state of Iowa, and
national totals are provided for each indicator wherever data is available and
applicable. A simplified rating system measures the status of each indicator in
the community and allows us to assess whether Iowa City is within or exceeding
the acceptable level, below the desired level or unclassifiable due to complexity
or other factors such as limited data.
Economic, environmental, and social /cultural conditions are healthy and
balanced in a vibrant and livable community. This report evaluates these three
categories of the Iowa City community in order to establish baseline conditions
for the creation of an effective and coordinated community- driven sustainability
roadmap.
The evaluation highlights improvement and provides a starting point for
leveraging our strengths and improving upon our deficiencies. The indicator
rating system shows that 34 indicators are within or exceeding acceptable limits,
13 indicators are not at desired level and 12 indicators are unclassified due to
insufficient comparison data. The indicators show that the City's sustainability
can be quantified, and that our level of sustainability is high.
Of the nine focus areas, these areas had the strongest positive indicators:
• Economic
• Community Design and Transportation,
• Water (municipal treatment and protection)
• Natural Ecosystem (acreage of natural areas)
The indicator rating Community Wellness
system shows that Arts and Culture
34 indicators are within
Although Iowa City is doing very well in many sustainability indicators the
or exceeding acceptable challenge we face is how to maintain these desirable characteristics while
limits, 13 indicators are overcoming deficiencies as the city grows in the coming years.
not at desired level and In these focus areas, work is underway and continued improvement is needed:
12 indicators are Energy
unclassified due to Water (river water quality and stream bank erosion)
Waste reduction
insufficient comparison Natural Ecosystem (invasive species)
data. Housing (rental housing issues)
Recognizing that there is room for improvement in these areas will allow the
community to see the need for more focus on energy reduction, greenhouse gas
targets, river and stream water quality improvements, waste reduction
j opportunities, plant species awareness and housing issues.
This report is the first step in commitment towards strategies that will foster a more
livable, viable and equitable community and solidify our future success.
Sustainable advancement in Iowa City requires setting quantifiable targets,
assessing progress and reevaluating goals to establish a basis for an overarching
sustainability strategy. Sustainability for a city means shifting to more whole
systems approach of functioning as a community, looking at all parts of the
environment, economic and social interconnectedness. In providing sustainability
goals and targets, Iowa City can use this overarching theme to ensure that the city
can continue to thrive and improve in the future.
1
lid
IOWA CITY
i
spssment
'I i
a"�
CITY OF IOWA CITY
Sustainabiity is the ability to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
Bruntland Report, 1987
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The City began its efforts towards sustainability many years
before the term became as commonly used as it is today.
Iowa City was a pioneer in energy conservation in the 1980s,
implementing numerous energy conservation programs and
using a portion of the energy savings to fund additional
projects. More recently, from 1999 -2005, LED lighting was
installed in City traffic signals, cutting electrical usage for
signals in half. In 2001, Sycamore Creenspace was constructed.
This green infrastructure contains 55 acres of wetland which
serves to manage stormwater and which also provides the City
with a mulit -use greenspace containing native plants, trails,
public art and wildlife habitat. The City -owned landfill began
capturing and flaring landfill gas in 2001, which has decreased
greenhouse emissions from the landfill by 69 %. Iowa City's
mayor signed the Mayors Climate Protection agreement in
2007 and in 2009 was the first City in Iowa to complete a
community-wide greenhouse gas inventory and emissions
baseline data. In the last several years, many City departments
have begun partnering in sustainability projects with the
University of Iowa, enhancing the ability to broaden the work
on sustainability within the community.
This assessment identifies specific indicators that coordinate
with the vision and broad set of goals set forth in IC2030,
Iowa City's most recent Comprehensive Plan and the
City's Strategic Plan. The indicators will act as a source of
information for the next step of this process: the development
of sustainability goals and targets. In the process of
sustainability goal setting, the City should also consider
sustainability goals set forth in the University of Iowa's 2020
Plan so that aligned efforts of local government, business,
non - profits, residents and the University will combine to foster
greater community progress.
Data for nearly 60 sustainability indicators in nine focus
areas were compiled and analyzed for this assessment. These
indicators focus on the economic, environmental and resource
management, and social /cultural categories of sustainability.
The nine focus areas included in the report are:
• Economic
• Community Design and Transportation
• Energy
• Water
• Waste Reduction
• Natural Ecosystem
• Housing
• Community Wellness
• Arts and Culture
The assessment conveys meaningful and measurable
information about the current status of the Iowa City
community with respect to sustainability. Data from 2007
serves as the baseline from which indicators in the following
four years are assessed. Comparisons between Iowa City,
the state of Iowa, and national totals are provided for
each indicator wherever data is available and applicable. A
simplified rating system measures the status of each indicator
in the community and allows us to assess whether Iowa City
is within or exceeding the acceptable level, below the desired
level or unclassifiable due to complexity or other factors such
as limited data.
Economic, environmental, and social /cultural conditions are
healthy and balanced in a vibrant and livable community.
This report evaluates these three categories of the Iowa City
community in order to establish baseline conditions for the
creation of an effective and coordinated community- driven
sustainability madmap.
The evaluation highlights improvement and provides a
starting point for leveraging our strengths and improving
upon our deficiencies. The indicator rating system shows
that 34 indicators are within or exceeding acceptable limits,
13 indicators are not at desired level and 12 indicators
are unclassified due to insufficient comparison data. The
indicators show that the City's sustainability can be quantified,
and that our level of sustainability is high.
Of the nine focus areas, these areas had the strongest positive
indicators:
• Economic
• Community Design and Transportation,
• Water (municipal treatment and protection)
• Natural Ecosystems (acreage of natural areas)
• Community Wellness
• Arts and Culture
Although Iowa City is doing very well in many sustainability
indicators the challenge we face is how to maintain these
desirable characteristics while overcoming deficiencies as the
city grows in the coming years.
In these focus areas, work is underway and continued
improvement is needed:
• Energy
• Water (river water quality and stream bank erosion)
• Waste reduction
• Natural Ecosystems (invasive species)
• Housing (rental housing issues)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION '
Demographic Profile 2
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT
Economic and Community Design 8 '
Economic 10
Community Design and Transportation 18
Environmental and Resource Management 26
Energy 28 '
Water 36
Waste Reduction 44
Natural Ecosystems 48
Social '
Housing b4 54
Community Wellness 62
Arts and Culture 10
Recognizing that there is room for improvement in these areas
will allow the community to see the need for more focus on
energy reduction, greenhouse gas targets, river and stream
water quality improvements, waste reduction opportunities, University of Iowa
plant species awareness and housing issues.
This report is the first step in commitment towards strategies
that will foster a more livable, viable and equitable community
and solidify our future success. Sustainable advancement in
Iowa City requires setting quantifiable targets, assessing prog-
ress and reevaluating goals to establish a basis for an overarching
sustainability strategy. Sustainability for a city means shifting
to more whole systems approach of functioning as a community,
looking at all parts of the environment, economic and social
interconnectedness. In providing sustainability goals and targets,
Iowa City can use this overarching theme to ensure that the city
can continue to thrive and improve in the future.
78
RESOURCES AND CONTRIBUTORS 94 '
Sustainability Indicators Index 98
City Accolades 101
'• INTRODUCTION • DEMOGRAPHICS
► This aerial map
shows the layout of
Iowa City, which is
bisected by the Iowa
River. Just southeast
of the intersection
of Interstate 80 and
Highway 218, Iowa
City encompasses
25 square miles of
Johnson County, Iowa.
♦ Location in Iowa
INTRODUCTION: DEMOGRAPHICS
Historical Background
The State of Iowa's name is derived from the Native American
word for `Beautiful Land," and Iowa City, a culturally dynamic
and engaging community, exemplifies this definition. Founded
in 1839, Iowa City joined Johnson County and served as the
state's capital from 1842 -1857 Located in the east central part
of Iowa, Iowa City lies alongside the Iowa River and boasts a
rich heritage. Iowa City is home to over 67,000 residents, with
attractive neighborhoods and downtown venues ranging from
restaurants providing original culinary creations to galleries
promoting local artists. The city is home to the University of
Iowa, founded in 1847, which is a part of the Big Ten Athletic
Association, includes the UI Hospital and Clinic, and enrolls
over 30,000 students a year. Iowa City's notable landmarks and
institutions include the Old Capital building, reminiscent of
the City's time as the state capital, and myriad museums, parks,
public venues, and the UI Hospitals and Clinics. Iowa City
was named the world's third city of literature by UNESCO
in 2008, and the University of Iowa is home to the world -
renowned Writer's Workshop. Most importantly, Iowa City is a
Community of hard-working and resilient people.
The Iowa City community has banded together to rebuild
after setbacks in the past, most recently a tornado in 2006
and devastating floods in 1993 and 2008. Serving as a home
to professionals, families, and students alike, Iowa City has
experienced significant population growth over the past few
years. This Sustainability Indicators Assessment will help the
local government and community evaluate the current state of
the city and plan for the future, in order to ensure that Iowa
City remains a vibrant and unique place for its residents. This
assessment is accomplished by defining indicators that play a
role in guiding sustainability in Iowa City.
INTRODUCTION • DEMOGRAPHICS • 3
Demographir
Iowa City's population has grown The population of Iowa City grew from 62,220 people in 2000 to 67,862 people
9.1% In the last decade, Outpacing the in 2010 (an increase of 5,642 people or 9.1% of the city population). The State of
state average. Iowa's population increased by 4.1% during this decade. The national population
has increased at slightly faster rate than Iowa City, increasing by 9.7% between 2000
and 2010.
POPULATION AND HOUSEHOLDS
Source: 2010 Census and 2000 Census, U.S. Census Bureau
Over the past ten years, Iowa City has Though white residents comprise nearly 80% of the total population, over the past
become more ethnically and racially ten years, the Hispanic population has nearly doubled, and the black population
diverse, with the Hispanic and black has grown by two - thirds.
Populations growing the fastest.
Source: 2010 and 2000
Census, U.S. Census Bureau Total
PERCENT CHANGE IN RACE AND ETHNICITY, 2000 -2010
Count
IOWA CITY
Count
IOWA
%
2000
UNITED STATES
Count
Count
%
Count
Count
%
Count
Count
Dh
2000
2010
Change
2000
2010
Change
2000
2010
Change
Population 62,220
67,862
9.1%
2,926,324
3,048,355
4.1%
281,421,906
308,745,538
9.7%
Households 25,202
27,,657
9.7%
1,149,276
1,221,576
END
105,480,101
116,716,292
10.7%
Persons per household 2.23
2.2
-0.5%
2.46
2.41
-2.0%
2.59
2.58
-0.4%
Source: 2010 Census and 2000 Census, U.S. Census Bureau
Over the past ten years, Iowa City has Though white residents comprise nearly 80% of the total population, over the past
become more ethnically and racially ten years, the Hispanic population has nearly doubled, and the black population
diverse, with the Hispanic and black has grown by two - thirds.
Populations growing the fastest.
Source: 2010 and 2000
Census, U.S. Census Bureau Total
PERCENT CHANGE IN RACE AND ETHNICITY, 2000 -2010
Count
%
Count
%
%
2000
2000
2010
2010
Change
All Hispanic
z
Asian
5.3%
Black
3,492
5.6%
z
Other; two or more
z
White
1,833
2.9%
3,627
5.3%
979%
3,492
5.6%
4,655
END
33.3%
2,272
3.7%
3,805
END
075%
1,218
2.0%
1,672
2.5%
373%
53,405
85.8%
54,103
79.7%
1.3%
62,220' 100% 67,862 100% 9.1%
'Though the original population total was revised, the U.S. Census Bureau did not revue the race subtotals.
'�• INTRODUCTION • DEMOGRAPHICS
Iowa City's median age is Due in part to the University of Iowa and downtown attractions, Iowa City draws
significantly younger than that of the an incredibly large number of young adults (41.1% of the population is between
state and the nation. 2034 years old, which is more than twice the average for this age group for both
the state and national averages). This profile has shifted the median age down
to 25.6, highlighting a cultural distinction within the city, while the state and
national median ages are 38.1 and 37.2, respectively. Though this population
largely fluctuates with enrollment and graduation, the profile suggests that direct
appeals to this younger demographic may generate and support and progress for the
community.
AGE COHORTS
The 21 -34 and 55+ age groups expanded Due to the University, bustling downtown area, and the numerous and diverse
between 2000 and 2010, while the <19 artistic and cultural events, Iowa City is often cited as a destination for young
years and 34 -54 age groups declined. people. While these observations and characterizations are certainly accurate, the
55+ demographic has expanded from 12.2% in 2000 to 16.8% in 2010, suggesting
that Iowa City is also appealing to these older age groups.
IOWA CITY
IOWA
U.S.
Count
%
Count
%
%
%
2000
2000
2010
2010
2010
2010
Younger than 19 years
15,619
25.1%
16,107
23.7%
20.9%
270%
20 -34
25,090
40.3%
27,894
41.1%
19.0%
20.3%
35 -44
7,270
11.7%
6,287
9.3%
12.0%
BAD
45 -54
6,619
10.0%
6,161
9.1%
14.4%
14.0%
55 -64
3,247
5.2%
5,878
8.7%
12.2%
11.8%
65 -74
2,204
3.5%
2,790
4.1%
74%
ZO%
75 or older
2,171
3.5%
2,745
4.0%
75%
6.0%
Total
62,220
100.0%
67,862
100.0%
100.0%
100.0%
Source: 2010 Census, U.S.
Census Bureau Median age
25.4
25.6
38.1
37.2
The 21 -34 and 55+ age groups expanded Due to the University, bustling downtown area, and the numerous and diverse
between 2000 and 2010, while the <19 artistic and cultural events, Iowa City is often cited as a destination for young
years and 34 -54 age groups declined. people. While these observations and characterizations are certainly accurate, the
55+ demographic has expanded from 12.2% in 2000 to 16.8% in 2010, suggesting
that Iowa City is also appealing to these older age groups.
INTRODUCTION • DEMOGRAPHICS • S
The number of students from various Every demographic examined in local schools expanded overall throughout the
racial and ethnic backgrounds trended 2007 2012 period—except the Asian group dropped around 5% over the last five
upwards in the last few school years, years. Local schools enrolled nearly 7% more students during the 2011 school year
producing larger and more diverse than the 2007 school year. White and black students increased roughly 1.5 %, while
groups of students In community schools. Native American and Hispanic percentages grew by 37% and 51 %, respectively.
Pacific Islander and Multi -Race groups were added to the assessment as populations
grew and they now represent more than 2% of enrolled students.
STUDENT DEMOGRAPHICS IN IOWA CITY COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
Native
Pacific
Year
White
Black
Asian
Hispanic
American
Islander
Multi -Race
2007 -2008
8,013
1,921
829
814
38
ND
ND
2008 -2009
7,884
1,814
840
885
26
ND
ND
2009 -2010
8,002
1,906
847
994
32
0
34
Source: Data eti
2010 -1201
8,013
1,933
853
1,068
44
5
9
(2012), Iowa Department of
Educator 2011 -2012
8,127
1,951
785
1,232
52
7
251
Iowa City has a highly educated population, due in part to
the University, with 60% of residents receiving a bachelor's,
graduate, or professional degree. In fact, more Iowa City
residents have received a graduate or professional degree than
any other attainment level.
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
• Graduate or
professional degree
• Bachelors degree
• Associate degree
• Some college, no
degree
• High school diploma
or equivalent
• Some high school,
no diploma
Source: 2010 Census, U.S.
Census Bureau
Iowa City
The largest attainment group by percentage in Iowa City is
"Graduate or professional degree," while the largest group in
the state and national averages is "High school diploma or
equivalent" The University of Iowa is a major contributor to
the highly educated residents thereby making Iowa City one of
the country's most educated cities per capita.
Iowa
United States
LL
'�• INTRODUCTION • DEMOGRAPHICS
Reaching achievement has been cited as a
Reading is a fundamentally important skill for further education, as well as day -to-
Strong Indication of high School graduation
day living, employment, and recreation. Reading ability is linked with educational
rate. Iowa City's reading achievement has
emphasis which leads to a strong correlation with high school graduation. The
consistently been above the average national
average percentile rank for Iowa City Community School District students
percentile rank.
consistently is above the national average. As the chart above indicates, in all
grades levels for reading, ICCSD students perform above the 50th percentile rank,
the national average. Over time, student achievement as compared to the nation
increases. Graduation rates have remained similar to the state average in recent years
and both high schools were named by two of the best public high schools in Iowa by
Newsweek. West High is ranked as the number 1 and City High as the number 6
high best high schools in Iowa.
THIRD -GRADE READING PROFICIENCY
GRADUATION RATES 2011 -2012 ACT TEST SCORES
(COMPOSITE)
Year Iowa City Iowa
Year Iowa City Iowa
Iowa City Iowa U.S.
2007 71.7% 78.3%
2009 91.8% 872%
2008 727% 74.8%
2010 85.2% 88.8% 25,4 22.1 21.1
2009 73.1% 76.1Vo
2011 88.1% 88.3%
2010 89.3% 75.5%
Source: ICCSD Achievement Data
2011 71.8% 773%
Source: Data & Statistics (2012), Iowa Deparmeent of Education
Source: APR State Student Achievement Data (2011)
Iowa Deparmeent of Education
The percentage of students receiving
assistance for school lunches grew
slightly each school year from 2007 to
2010, but it has been consistently lower
than the state average for the last
five years.
Source: Iowa Deparmeent
of Education
Although the percentage of students receiving free or reduced price school lunches
increased slightly during the 2007 -2008 school years, the percentage has remained
fairly steady for the last four years.
STUDENTS RECEIVING ASSISTANCE FOR SCHOOL LUNCHES
504 ■ Iowa City students ■ Iowa students 9.
9. a
404 < a �;� M a `m"
Ci
a ro v a on n
M pj M C O Qj
30% M M
20%
10%
0%
2007 -2008 2008 -2009 2009 -2010 2010 -2011 2011 -2012
INTRODUCTION • DEMOGRAPHICS • 7
In recent years, aggravated assaults,
In 2009, the Police Department received a grant focused on reducing violent
destruction /damage /vandalism, PAULA
crimes, which allowed officers to work overtime to locate instances of violent
charges, and robberies have declined
behavior. Arrests began to rise and instances of assault began to decline noticeably.
Steadily While burglaries, drug /narcotic
The use of this grant also freed up officers on regular duty, allowing them to
and equipment violations, and Shoplifting
address other issues in the city. Drug /Narcotic and equipment violations have
have Increased.
climbed rapidly in the last couple of years, but like the total number of crimes,
Aggravated assault
tends to fluctuate and shift regularly. PAULA (Possession of Alcohol Under the
134
Legal Age) charges fell nearly 50% since 2007, suggesting that underage drinking
101
may be diminishing (due in part to the 21 -only ordinance for downtown bars
2008
after 10 P.M.). For more than 12 years, the Police Department has worked with
879
the University and Rape Victim Advocacy Program to raise awareness and provide
274
helpful information about safety and rape prevention. Given the constant influx
306
of new students each year, this is a valued continued partnership. The state of
356
Iowa uses the Universal Crime Reporting (UCR) system, and most states use the
419
National Incident Based Reporting System (NIBRS) making national comparisons
Destruction/damage/vandalism
difficult. Having a large student population makes Iowa City unique compared to
709
most Iowa communities, so state comparisons are complex as well.
ALCOHOL - RELATED VIOLATIONS CRIME
DWI Arrests
PAULA Charges
2007
2006
2009
2010
2011
2007
486
1002
Aggravated assault
145
134
147
101
121
2008
424
879
Burglary/breaking & entering
274
343
306
299
356
2009
419
852
Destruction/damage/vandalism
846
709
784
622
598
2010
319
529
Drug /narcotic violations
332
310
333
453
626
2011
452
538
Drug equipment violation
172
178
170
209
268
Murder /non - negligent manslaughter
0
3
1
0
0
Source: Arrest
Statistics, City of Iowa City
Rape (Non- Statuatory)
42
29
29
48
35
Robbery
49
58
60
40
25
Shoplifting
208
191
329
276
348
Annual Total Crimes
4,196
3,993
4,366
4,109
4,416
Source: Police 2011 Annual Report. City of Iowa City
•� SII STAI NABI LITY ASSESSMENT •ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY NESI6N
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN • S
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT
ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN
Sustainable economic growth is essential for a thriving
community. Smart, planned growth can increase the level of
high quality employment opportunities, bring a larger income
to the community, and provide a better quality of life while
maximizing resources. To pursue economic growth, the City
has implemented a Strategic Plan that aims to diversify Iowa
City's economy while enhancing the established infrastructure
and increasing financial stability. Iowa City's locally -owned
businesses are supported through various local purchasing
programs that strive to balance smaller, independent
businesses with larger commercial centers. Since Iowa City
has also maintained low unemployment rates in recent years,
the economy has remained prosperous and has continued to
attract new residents and build a robust community.
Community design is an essential tool for shaping the
community and directing progress by using methods such
as mixed land use, compact building design, urban density,
walkable neighborhoods, and a range of housing choices that
provide distinct, attractive neighborhoods. This creates a
strong "sense of place" the way that land is developed can
strengthen a neighborhood and instill a feeling of belonging
by connecting residents. Iowa City's dense downtown
development efficiently utilizes land space and encourages
infilling. The City's partnership with the EPA has resulted
in the Riverfront Crossings Master Plan which provides an
outline for sustainably developing a walkable neighborhood
in the center of the City and reclaiming the riverfront as park
land that will be the catalyst for future development and a
means to manage flooding along the Iowa River.
1
10 • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: ECONOMIC
ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: ECONOMIC
A stable economy maintains the standard of living and ensures the financial well -being of the city residents.
Iowa City has remained resilient, especially amid
economic downturns and our unemployment rate
has remained low compared to the state and national
averages since around 2008. Sustainable economic
development requires the establishment and maintenance
of a diverse business sector and the fulfillment of public
demand for local attractions to provide opportunities
and destinations. Locally -owned businesses also keep
more funds within the community; strengthen bonds
within the city and support diverse markets. With this
in mind, Iowa City has programs that encourage local
purchases. Also, the low gender wage gap for Iowa City
reflects our commitment to equality. Recent research
has shown that Iowa City has a "hidden income," since
average household income collected by the census does
not adequately reflect U of I students. Many students
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: ECONOMIC • 11
SUSTAINABILITY INDICATORS: ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: ECONOMIC
Unemployment Bate
•
Percent change in unemployment rate
Sector Diversity
•
Diversity of the economy
Poverty
•
Average household income (includes hidden economy of student population)
Gender Wage Gap
•
Female median wage as a percentage of male median wage
Bond Bating
•
Bond rating from Moody's Investor Service
Gross Domestic Product
•
Annual GDP growth rate
Local Purchases
U
Programs supporting local purchases and the local economy
•
= within or exceeding acceptable level
O
= below desired level
U =
unclassitled
come from high - income households but can report zero
or little income in the census.
The City's 2011 Strategic Plan ties into sustainable
economic growth; three of the top five goals are
economic:
Economic and Community Development:
Development and Planning of the Downtown and
Near Downtown Areas:
It is the city's goal to promote growth of the
downtown and near downtown areas in a manner
that builds upon the existing vibrancy of the region,
serves persons of all ages and backgrounds, and
compliments the surrounding neighborhoods and
University community.
The city strives to expand and diversify the economic
base of the community, particularly in existing A Strong and Sustainable Financial Foundation:
Planned commercial and industrial areas that have the City aims to create a strong and sustainable
supporting infrastructure established. financial foundation that will provide needed
stability and flexibility while utilizing taxpayer
dollars in the most efficient and responsible manner.
1
• • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: ECONOMIC
Iowa City has experienced an Increased
The global recession has hit most economies and increased employment across the
rate of unemployment, though the rate
world; however, Iowa City has shown a much lower rate of unemployment compared
is Still Significantly Tess than that of the
to the state and national unemployment rates (Iowa City's unemployment rate is
State and national average.
-213 and -2/5 of state and national average, respectively). Unemployment increased
41,000
after 2008; regardless, Iowa City is experiencing smaller impacts from the worldwide
0
economic downturn compared to state and national statistics.
UNEMPLOYMENT RATE COMPARISON
12
10
8
6
Source: local Area 4
Unemployment Statistics
(2812) and Labor Force 2
Statistics (2812), U.S. Bureau
of Labor Statistics 0
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
ANNUAL EMPLOYMENT IN IOWA CITY
m
°a
m m
O M T
n
a
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
42,000
z
41,500
0
41,000
0
40,500
}0
a
40,000
w
39,500
39,000
m
38,500
Source: local Area
z
Unemployment Statistics
38,000
(2012), U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics
0
m
°a
m m
O M T
n
a
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: ECONOMIC • 13
Sector diversity has remained relatively
Sector diversity, which is data gathered from Quarterly Census of Employment
constant just above 89% —while stable
and Wages (2012), U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, refers to the various types of
and positive, efforts to increase diversity
businesses that make up the local economy more diverse economy is able to
could establish an even more robust
absorb market fluctuations more easily and remain prosperous for the community.
economic sector.
The next largest sector in Iowa City's economy is Retail Trade (8,314 employees),
(of top 15
followed by Accommodation and Food Services (6,968 employees) and Health
Care and Social Assistance (6,710 employees). Sector diversity has remained
employers)
consistent above 89 %, but the expansion of smaller industries could increase
University of Iowa
diversity, produce greater job growth, and strengthen the economy.
However, this source does not include data from the University of Iowa. The
University of Iowa alone employs more than 20,000 people (UI Hospital and
Clinic employs almost another 7,000, making it the top employer of the City after
the University).
1
TOP 15 EMPLOYERS IN IOWA CITY
Percentage
Number of
(of top 15
Employees
employers)
University of Iowa
20,588
51.2%
University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics
6,807
IGAVO
Iowa City Community School District
1,700
4.2%
Veterans Health Administration
1,562
3.9%
ACT, Inc.
1,243
3.1%
Mercy Iowa City
1,208
3.0%
Pearson Educational Measurement
1,200
3.0%
Hy -Vee (includes Coralville)
1,166
2.9%
City of Iowa City
1,049
2.13%
Systems Unlimited
890
2.2%
International Automotive Components
785
2.0%
Source: leading Employers
Procter & Gamble
700
1.7%
Survey, Iowa City Area
Johnson County Administration
500
1.2%
Development Group; Planning
Oral B Laboratories
462
1.1%
and Community Development
Department, City of Iowa City
Alpla of Iowa
360
0.9%
1
•� • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: ECONOMIC
While household Income may appear
Household income calculations are based on population and income reported from
low due to the large college student
Census data. For Iowa City this is a complicated issue due to the large student
population, Iowa City Is actually a Quite
population. Student's may report no or little income, but have financial resources
affluent Community.
from their parents or financial aid. While the Median Household Income numbers
for Iowa City are lower than both the state and national averages. This "hidden
economy" that can exist in college town was discovered when a study was done in
2011 to research the community's spending power for economic development. An
estimated 11,000 students filled out the 2010 census in Iowa City, dramatically
lowering the average household income. When students are factored out in this
report, the AHHI doubled to $92,000 which is much higher than both state and
national averages.
HOUSEHOLD INCOME (NOMINAL DOLLARS)'
IOWA CITY IOWA U.S.
Percend Percerd Percent
Household Income 2010 2010 2010
<$25,000 373% 23.8% 23.5%
$25,000 450,000 20.0% 274% 24.0%
$50,000 475,000 15.7% 20.7% 18.0%
$75,000 4100,000 10.3% 12.9% 12.3%
$100,000 4150,000 8.9% 10.3% 12.3%
$150,000 4200,000 3.9% 2.7% 4.4%
>_ $200,000 3.3% 230.0% 4.2%
Source: 2010 and 2000
Census, B.S. Census Bureau
Median Household Income $40,716 $46,972 $51,914
Averaged from annual data from 2008 -2010, with a margin of error of +/ -20
HOUSEHOLD INCOME IN IOWA CITY'
■ <$25,000
■ $25,000 450,000
■ $50,000- $75,000
■ $75,000 4100,000
■ $100,0004150,000
■ $150,0004200,000
=$200,000
'Does not include "hidden income' of students.
Source: 2010 Census, U.S. Census Bureau
2000 2010
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: ECONOMIC • 15
The gender wage gap Is much smaller
The gender wage gap is a ratio of median female earnings to median male earnings
than the state and national average.
for full -time, year -round workers in the area. The GWG values in this case is
The female median wage in Iowa City is
unadjusted, meaning they do not take into account the level of education /skill,
88.1% of the male median wage, while In
number of children, time off for maternity leave, occupation, etc. influencing
the state and nation, the ratio Is 78.8%
income disparity between males and females. However, direct discrimination
and 78.3% respectively.
through societal /cultural attitudes and bias on gender, as well as the level of value
Placed on the work performed, also factor into the wage gap. Iowa City holds a
reduced gender wage gap compared to the state and national average, indicating
the maintenance of economic prosperity and the prioritization of wage equity.
'
This reduced gap is a reflection of policies and practices that promote fairness and
equity, which makes Iowa City's economy more attractive to prospective residents
and employees.
GENDER WAGE GAP
■ Female median income ■ Male median income
$50,000
$40,000
$30,000
$20,000
$10,000
Source: 2010 Census.
U.S. Census Bureau $0
a
m
a
N
N
w
M
T
0
a
n
d
a
w
Iowa City Iowa United Slates
• • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: ECONOMIC
Iowa City has received the highest
As one of only four cities in Iowa that has achieved this rating, Iowa City receives
general obligation bond rating, Aaa, from
the lowest borrowing cost and can thus provide more services at a lower cost to
Moody's Investor Service for over
taxpayers. This high rating reflects the City's strong capacity to meet payment
35 years.
obligations, meaning that banks are also more confident about investing. By
borrowing responsibly and repaying obligations, Iowa City can sustainably provide
community services. Public engagement regarding the disbursement of funds can
facilitate responsible, targeted spending that meets the goals of the community in
an equitable manner. Iowa City maintains this responsible pattern of repayment
to ensure that future investments can be made and the City can continue to grow
without higher costs from borrowed funds.
The real Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
Real GDP and chained dollars are corrected for inflation /deflation, so they provide
has trended upwards in recent years,
a comparative index for the quantity of total output Increasing values coincide with
increasing by $237 million from
greater production, increasing the funds available to the community. Iowa City's
2007_2010.
real GDP shows that economic output has increased over the last few years despite
global downturns. The percent change in per capita GDP is nearly twice that of
the state average from 2005 2010. The greatest boost to real GDP in 2010 came
from durable -goods manufacturing (0.75 %), followed by professional and business
services (0.29 %).
REAL GOP IN IOWA CITY (MILLIONS OF CHAINED [2005] DOLLARS)
$6,700 $6,660
y $6,600 $6,567 $61561
o$6,500
$6,423
z $6,400
0
$6,300
Source: News Release
(2011), Bureau of Economic
Anaysls, U.S. Departeent of
Commerce
$0
2007 2008 2009 2010
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: ECONOMIC • 17
Several programs promoting local "Buy Local' has been an Iowa City policy since 2012 to help ensure that businesses
purchases have been Implemented for located in Johnson County that submit a cost - competitive bid will be given first
the Iowa City community. consideration for contract awards. Specifically, local businesses or vendors that
submit a quote or bid that is 5% or less above the low bid submitted by a non -local
vendor will have the chance to match or beat the price for the contract.
`Buy Here" is a local economic development initiative of the Iowa City Area
Chamber of Commerce that began in 2007. The goal of this program is to boost
the local economy through increased business -to- business purchasing. During '
its inaugural year, the "Buy Here" campaign shifted more than $6 million into
Johnson County. Membership has grown from 125 to more than 200 businesses,
non - profits, and local governments that have now pledged to shift 5% of their
non -local spending back to Johnson County to help strengthen the community.
Annual data for "Buy Here" community dollars and membership numbers are not
currently available.
"Buy Fresh, Buy Local" is a nationwide network with a chapter in our county that
promotes locally grown food. This program helps citizens locate nearby farmers
markets, vendors, restaurants, and community- supported agriculture and local
food events. Come to the Table is a local food summit which occurs every year
with the goal of fostering relationships between farmers and buyers in the Iowa
Corridor Region. Johnson County also has a Food Policy Council to give advice
on food and agriculture policies and programs.
By recirculating money in the community we become more self - sufficient, improve
health, provide new jobs and create new business opportunities. Local purchases can
also strengthen the ties between citizens and create a greater sense of community.
• • SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: COMMUNITY DESIGN AND TRANSPORTATION
ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN; COMMUNITY DESIGN AND TRANS
Access to open space encourages recreation, enhances mental well- being, and provides a
connection to nature for all citizens.
Access to open space encourages recreation, enhances
mental well- being, and provides a connection to nature
for all citizens. Iowa City has strategically located
open areas in close proximity to the vast majority of
households throughout the community, providing nearly
all residents with convenient access to these locations.
The IC2030 Comprehensive Plan outlines the City's
direction for growth, including preservation of historic
buildings, compatible infill development, creating a
diverse housing stock, and neighborhood commercial
areas. the Plan also defines goals and strategies to guide
development of sustainable land use patterns.
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: COMMUNITY DESIGN AND TRANSPORTATION • 19
SUSTAINABILITY INDICATORS: ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: COMMUNITY DESIGN AND TRANSPORTATION
Walkable Neighborhoods
•
Iowa City's walk scare rating
Urban Density
U
Ratio of residents per acre
Access to Open Space
•
Pement of households within 112 mile of open space (including parks, schoelyards, and natural areas)
Public Transit Ridership
•
Number of public transit passenger trips per 1,000 residents
Vehicle Miles Traveled
•
Average vehicle miles traveled per capita
Sale Travel Nelwork
•
Total number of traffic collisions, Injuries and deaths
• = within or exceeding acceptable level
0— below desired level
U= unclassified
PO RTATIO N
The variety of transportation choices in our community
includes a municipally owned transit service that
connects with the University and Coralville transit
services through a program called BONGO (Bus on
the Go). As of 2010, almost 19,000 people in Iowa
City regularly utilize alternative transportation for their
daily commute. Iowa City is also a Silver Level Bicycle
Friendly Community with 48 miles of paved trails. The
The Walk Score rating system indicates that most parts
of Iowa City are highly walkable. 'There are several
alternative methods of transportation supported by the
City and many citizens can live comfortably here without
a motor vehicle. As a result of the number of options, the
number of vehicle miles travelled is lower than state and
national averages. Iowa City has also adopted a Complete
Streets policy which is designed to enable safe access for
Iowa City Bike Library opened in 2004 with the mission pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and transit riders of all
of getting more people on bikes. They take donated ages and abilities.
bicycles and refurbish them. The checkout period is six
months and they provide 200 -300 bikes for checkout
annually. City Hall also has bikes available for staff to
use during work hours. The walkability of the downtown
area is high, with students and citizens able to live close
to work, school, and entertainment destinations.
1
• • SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: COMMUNITY DESIGN AND TRANSPORTATION
With a Walk Score of 53, Iowa City Is the
Neighborhoods that are more walkable provide opportunities for individuals
most walkable city in Iowa, due to the
to access more facilities and services throughout the community, regardless
densely packed and diverse downtown
of socioeconomic status. They also allow citizens to utilize alternate means of
integration of living, working, and
transportation, such as walking, biking, and public transit more frequently, reducing
shopping establishments.
pp g men
the amount emissions from automobiles, as well as relieving traffic congestion
and collisions. Cleaner air promotes better health, as does the physical activity
that is often associated with alternate transportation, but walkable neighborhoods
also increase social engagement and economic growth due to easy access to local
businesses and attractions.
► A walk score of
50 -69 means that
some amenities are
within walking distance.
Source. Walk Scare,
wmv.walkscoa.com
SOMEWHAT WALKABLE: IOWA CITY'S WALKABLE NEIGHBORHOODS WALK SCORE IS 53
5
a�
y
v '
'
S
.at
i
a �
r.
..
n•n
`.MM
ti
�
i ry
I
,
O
sWn
Y
M�
"5�
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: COMMUNITY DESIGN AND TRANSPORTATION • 21
Iowa City's population density Is 2,713.8
Higher density cities are considered more efficient and sustainable than lower density,
people per square mile compared to the
sprawled cities as they have a smaller environmental imprint while integrating living,
Population density of 52.7 people per
working, and shopping establishments for easier access and lower transportation
square mile for the state of Iowa, Which
costs' While optimal density is difficult to determine, it is important to provide
is largely agricultural. It is the fifth-
integrated zoning opportunities and establish transportation networks throughout
largest city In the state of Iowa.
the city that connect residents to their local community. As Iowa City's population
continues to grow, the downtown area's expansion must include the development
of residential housing to maintain and increase urban density. Benefits of higher
• CB Bike Racks
density urban areas include lower transportation expenses, reduced pollution and
greater economic vitality, among many others.
► The location of
wide sidewalks, hike
lanes, trails, and
hike racks, as well
as other convenient
features for cyclists
in the downtown area
These facilities assist
bicycle commuters
by providing safe
routes, storage, and
recreational areas—
they also reflect the
City's commitment to
the enhancement of
alternative means of
transportation.
LOCATIONS OF BICYCLE COMMUTER FACILITIES
® comm�rer snor er
crr- rsea era
e evd B' Raga
rcel Iowa cce]2os ci1Mn Sl
[(LE Rec&iileing 93o Serum Br-
6p •aeo
v
Bke Lal rs
Bl Field r-, 225 S card A-
OI Halaey Hall, 2B W Jeer —St
y N
Cl campus Re, &vkll —s 309 S Al
• CB Bike Racks
L
Bike Racks
JEW Iaa ar,er
�.Aayl.N
— BIKEIANE
•
.
- 3
— SHPAEB ROAR
•�•
�
W Im�s\\ mi
—TRAIL
•
T'� �[� °0 \4
—WDES BEvALK
M
•
P P
• • l •—•rte .
•
f
n
p
P
t
1
• • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: COMMUNITY DESIGN AND TRANSPORTATION
Almost 100% (99.4 %) of Iowa City
Access to open space is important for providing equitable recreational opportunities
residents live within 1/2 of a mile of open
to all residents and maintaining environmental connections in the urban setting.
space areas, Including the City's parks,
'These open, natural areas also help manage flooding, filter pollutants, and provide
schoolyards or natural areas.
refuge for wildlife. Open space areas also serve as a template upon which residents
are free to project their own desired forms of entertainment —from lounging,
reading, and art, to walking, playing, and sports. Iowa City has many natural areas
and parks within short distances to residences, providing nearly all of the city's
inhabitants with easy access to these recreational opportunities. A location map of
Iowa City's parks can be found on the City of Iowa City's website.
PUBLIC NATURAL AREAS
► Legend:
1. Waterworks Park
2. Peninsula Parkland
3. Hickory Hill Park
4. Longfellow Prone
5. Rohret Road Prairie
6. Sand Prairie
7. Whispering Meadows Wetland Park
a. Terry Trueblood Recreation Area
9. Ryerson Woods
10. Sycamore Greenspace
11. Oxeye Prairie
I--
JF
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: COMMUNITY DESIGN AND TRANSPORTATION • 23
Public transit ridership Increased by
Public transportation provides essential services for many who cannot afford
more than 600,000 passengers in the
personal vehicles and would otherwise be restricted to their local neighborhoods.
last 5 years. City transit ridership has
These public transit systems also alleviate fuel usage and greenhouse gas emissions
consistently made up 113 of public bus
due to the consolidation of various vehicle trips into a single, regular route utilized
ridership, While the DOIVerSlty Cambus
hilt the
it
mbus
by thousands of residents. Public transit fights urban sprawl by reconnecting
System SUS 213 all
communities and providing an affordable and more resource - efficient means of
transit ridership In Iowa City.
transportation. Iowa City has seen a rise in its public transit ridership over the last 5
years, suggesting that the growing population continues to rely upon this effective
and inexpensive transportation system. All vehicles are ADA lift- equipped to
promote an accessible community for those with disabilities; they also contain bike
racks to transport bicycles in the event of multi -modal transportation. Users can
also access www.ebongo.org to receive real -time bus location information for easier
scheduling. Students in particular heavily utilize the Cambus network that provides
free transportation throughout the campus and dormitories. There are now Zipcars
available in two areas downtown and three locations on campus where citizens and
students can reserve and have access to cars without owning them.
NUMBER OF PUBLIC TRANSIT RIDERS
(THOUSANDS)
■ City bus ridership ■ Cambus ridership
6,000
5,000
4,000 - -
3,000
2,000
1,000 a °m m IN
m m m m
0 1 =
2007 2006 2009 2010 2011
Source: Chris O'Brien, Director of Transportallon Services
TRANSIT ROUTES AND STOPS
xiIt 1
T'i ".�l.•�
♦ The interconnected bus routes that enable swift, affordable transportation all across the city. Iowa City's
website contains a full list of bus routes and schedules for riders to coordinate their transit needs, while
www.ebongo.org provides a GPS- based, real -time passenger information system that allows riders to
pinpoint bus locations.
BONGO stops are indicated on this map by the boxes with flags; blue routes indicate Coralville transit;
red routes indicate Iowa City transit; orange routes indicate University of Iowa Cambus.
1
• • SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: COMMUNITY DESIGN AND TRANSPORTATION
While the county, state and national Iowa City's development emphasizes design for people rather than vehicles, allowing
vehicle miles travelled per capita are for more walkable mixed -use communities. Due to this structure, a variety of
consistently averaging near 10,000 miles transportation options are available, especially for students that may not own
per year, residents of Iowa City average motor vehicles. Downtown Iowa City is located adjacent to the University campus,
less than 5,000 vehicle miles travelled facilitating greater walkability for students and non - students alike. By planning for
each year. integrated areas that allow residents to have homes, employment, and entertainment
in close proximity to one another, there is a reduced need for driving. Lower vehicle
miles travelled per capita results in lower greenhouse gas emissions, improved air
quality, and healthier citizens.
VEHICLE MILES TRAVELLED PER CAPITA
■ Iowa City
■ Johnson County
■
Iowa
■ United States
y
p N
OJ
W
N M
12,000
H V W
T W N
y M C4
W
M M O
N q
0 0 o
O
M O q
O O
p O O
nal source: Travel
National
0,000
Monitoring and Traffic
Volume, Federal Highway
8 00
Administration, U.S.
o
Department of Transportation.
6,000
a
^
16
v
^
o
^
State, county and oily source:
4 000
If
y
v
v
v
Vehicle Miles of Travel, Iowa
Department of Transportation
2,000
Population estimates, U.S.
Census Bureau
0
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: COMMUNITY DESIGN AND TRANSPORTATION • 25
Vehicle collisions and injuries have fallen
This steady decline in vehicle collisions and deaths may be a reflection of reduced
steadily, while vehicle - related deaths
numbers of vehicles on the road during work commutes. Estimates show nearly a
have remained consistently low.
10% reduction in usage of cars, trucks, and vans for commuting to work over the
last 5 years, as well as a 67% increase in public transportation, 52% increase in
bicycling, and 9% increase in walking. As more residents utilize alternate means
of transportation to work, there are fewer opportunities for collisions or other
accidents to occur. Thorough road planning is necessary to ensure safe routes
and intersections for all modes of transportation. Growing cities require adaptive
responses to facilitate easier, safer transportation and reduced congestion to prevent
'
unsafe situations. With Iowa City's growing population and dense downtown area, it
is essential to maintain effective corridors for all modes of transportation to provide
efficient, safe access throughout the city.
VEHICLE COLLISIONS, INJURIES, AND DEATHS
•Collisions •Injures Deaths
1,600
1,400
1,200
1,000
800
600
400
Source: Major Case Report
200
Iowa Deparhnent of
> > > > 3
Transportation
0 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
• SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
.r
w
t ,
� . P.`
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT • 27
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT
ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Iowa City has had a longstanding commitment to energy
efficiency, with an energy program dating as far back as the
1980's. Ongoing work such as the installation of efficient
LED traffic lights from 2001 -2005 has continued up to our
recent replacement of parking ramp lights with LED fixtures.
Also, the City assessed baseline COie emission data for 2000
and subsequently established a number of energy reduction
programs that have helped reduce annual per - capita emissions
in recent years. Municipal energy use has been significantly
reduced in recent years due to efficiency measures implemented
because of increased awareness. The 3 most recent buildings
constructed by the City have been built and certified to
LEED standards. Efficiency is just one benefit associated with
coordinated economic growth and environmental protection. A
clean and healthy water supply, reduced waste, and conserved
natural areas also provide benefits to citizens and help sustain
natural ecosystems. Having recently experienced a large
flood event in 2008, the City has reexamined its relationship
with the Iowa River and has partnered with the US EPA to
help restore the ecosystem and to increase the stability, safety,
and beauty of the riverfront. Iowa City is also committed
to the preservation of natural areas and provides incentives
for clustered, contiguous development to efficiently manage
land use. Similarly, a Sensitive Areas Ordinance is in place to
protect natural areas and maintain native populations of plants
and animals. Numerous recycling and waste management
efforts, such as the Food Scrap Program, are in place to divert
waste products, including household hazardous waste and
pharmaceutical drugs, from our landfill. All of these efforts
have helped to synchronize our environmental management
efforts with further economic growth and community
enhancement, providing a foundation for a sustainable city that
both protects and efficiently utilizes resources for greater benefit.
1
24 • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: ENERGY
ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: ENERGY
The City of Iowa City has been actively involved in reducing municipal and community energy use.
In 2007 Iowa City's mayor signed the U.S. Mayors
Climate Protection Agreement, and in 2008 the City
Council signed a resolution to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions and increase energy efficiency. Completion
of a greenhouse gas emissions inventory in 2009
(http: / /www.icgov.org /site /CMSv2 /file /solidWaste/
Greenhouse_gas_Emission _ inventory.pdf), made Iowa
City the first city in Iowa with baseline data for energy
usage and emissions for both the community and
municipal operations. Shortly thereafter Iowa City
received a U.S. Department of Energy Efficiency and
Conservation Block Grant (EECBG). This funding
was used to track municipal energy use, provide
building efficiency reports for City facilities, and
install energy efficient lighting, motors and other
equipment in municipal facilities. 'These actions have
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: ENERGY • 29
SUSTAINABILITY INDICATORS: ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: ENERGY
Building Standards
U
Number of commercial, industrial, and municipal buildings that meet LEED Standards
Renewable Energy Use
O
Amount of municipal energy use delved from renewable sources
Renewable Energy Use by Local Utility
•
Percentage of renewable energy an local utility grid
Community -wide CO2a Emissions
O
Annual carbon dioxide equivalent emissions for the community in metric tans
COze Emissions Per Capita
O
Annual carbon dioxide equivalent emissions per capita in metric tans
Municipal CO2a Emissions
O
Annual carbon dioxide equivalent emissions for municipal operations
• = within or exceeding acceptable level
0= below desired level
U= unclassified
resulted in increased awareness of energy efficiency,
decreased municipal energy use and have saved the
City energy costs. The City actively enforced the
sate energy code by inspecting new buildings and
Iowa City is also actively pursuing sustainable waste -
to- energy options for the landfill, which is owned
and operated by the City and serves the residents
of Johnson County. In addition, this Sustainability
Assessment was made possible through Energy
Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant funding.
Iowa City's utilities are largely provided by MidAmerican
Energy Company, the country's number one wind energy
producer. "Thirty percent of MidAmerican's energy
is obtained from alternative, non -fossil fuel derived
resources, primarily wind. MidAmerican provides energy
rebates to residents and commercial and industrial
clients to help fund energy efficiency. Eastern Iowa Light
and Power Cooperative provides energy to a small area
within the city limits. They offer customers an option to
purchase some wind - generated energy and offer rebates
for alternative energy projects. Iowa is first in the nation
in wind - energy use, which comprises nearly 24.5% of the
state's electricity generation.
Because fossil fuels are a limited resource, prices will
continue to increase as production costs rise and the
natural supply declines. Electricity prices have remained
stable in this area for many years, but are expected to
increase over the next few years. Energy is a necessity
and therefore increased use of alternative energy sources,
efficiency measures, emissions reductions are areas
that Iowa City can continue to improve upon. Iowa
City continues to track energy use and greenhouse gas
emissions and works closely with the University of Iowa,
which operates a power plant within the City limits.
1
A • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: ENERGY
The 2006 -2011 time period experienced
This recent expansion of LEED buildings in Iowa City signifies a commitment
growth In the number of LEED - certified
to energy efficiency, alternative energy and environmental conservation. These
buildings In Iowa City. These buildings
certifications require fulfillment of various criteria throughout the planning and
are built with the intention of increased
construction phases, as well as for the operations and maintenance procedures, to
energy efficiency, utilization of
establish sustainable practices throughout the life of the building. It is important to
alternative energy, reduced waste In
note that certification takes months to attain, and there are currently a number of
construction, and efficient design.
buildings in Iowa City awaiting LEED certification. These numbers do not include
homes that are LEED certified.
NUMBER OF LEED BUILDINGS CERTIFIED
Source: TEED Projects, U.S. Green
Building Council; Energy Star, U.S. EPA
Biogas usage at the wastewater
treatment plant offsets the use of
natural gas.
2000 - 2002 2003 -2005 2006-2008 2009 -2011
Biogas (methane) is a by- product of wastewater digestion. Heat is used to kill
pathogens in the biosolids so they can be applied in place of fertilizers. The biogas
is captured then burned in the digester boilers to continue the biosolid production
process. The biogas is a form of renewable energy cycling through the system
that reduces the need for natural gas and provides an efficient means for heating
biosolids. Excess biogas is flared on -site, especially during the summer when
not as much heat is required in the process. Flaring is done because biogas is a
strong greenhouse gas and burning it reduces the gas to CO., which is less potent
greenhouse gas. This situation provides a unique opportunity for use of renewable
energy use in the city.
BIOGAS USE IN THERMS (THOUSANDS)
40
Source: Wastewater Treatment Reports, 20
Iowa City Wastewater BINSIOn 0
2007
2008 2009 2010 2011
130
140
120
100
86
94
82
80
73
60
40
Source: Wastewater Treatment Reports, 20
Iowa City Wastewater BINSIOn 0
2007
2008 2009 2010 2011
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: ENERGY • 31
MidAmerican Energy's renewable fuel
MidAmerican Energy is the largest energy provider for Iowa City, so our community
Component has gone up 13% In the
energy usage closely reflects what they generate. In 2007, wind energy represented
last five years, largely due to Increased
less than 10% of MidAmerican's energy generation, but it has now grown to 26 %.
harvesting of wind power. Now,
Leading the nation in ownership of wind - powered electric generation among
113 of their energy Comes from
rate - regulated utilities, MidAmerican awards annual payments to landowners who
renewable sources.
have utility- installed turbines on their land. They also assess adverse environmental
impacts of potential wind farm sites before construction to ensure viability. Thanks
to voluntary customer contributions to the MidAmerican Energy Renewable
Advantage program, the company constructed a 0.5 megawatt wind turbine in
2007, and various solar installations in 2011 and 2012, in Iowa. While many have
questioned the feasibility of renewable energy on a large scale, MidAmerican is
helping to prove that these solutions are not only possible, but they are essential to
fulfilling consumer demands and increasing profits while paving the way to a more
sustainable future.
RENEWABLE ENERGY USE BY MIOAMERICAN ENERGY
(% OF TOTAL ENERGY USE)
35% 33%
30% 2 27%
25% 23%
20%
20%
15%
10%
5%
Source: MidAmerican Energy 00/0
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
1
3� • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: ENERGY
Total CDINImnity -Wide emissions have
A baseline inventory was conducted for community -wide CO,e emissions in 2000.
not been reduced since baseline levels
Calculations were made to forecast emissions for business -as -usual (based on
Were Calculated In 2000, but they have
predicted population increases), as well as a 20% overall reduction by 2020. Though
not reached the forecasted Increase.
data was not gathered from 2001 -2007, subsequent years have been assessed and it is
recommended that the community greenhouse gas emissions inventory be updated
yearly. Our total emissions have not reduced annually, but our reduction efforts have
prevented significant increases in emissions despite the population growth of 9.1%
from 2000 to 2010. The establishment of reduction goals could help lower annual
emission rates.
• Industnal
• Commercial
- Residential
U Power Plant
• Transportation
• Waste
— CO'e as usual
— Baseline
— 20% reduction
Source. Iowa City
Landfill Division
IOWA CITY COMMUNITY CO,E TOTALS BY SECTOR (METRIC TONNES)
1,800,000
1,600,000
1,400,000
1,200,000
1,000,000
800,000
600,000
400,000
200,000
0
O N C
O O O O
N N N N
W O N
O O O
C (L] W O
N
O O O O
Each sector of the Iowa City community
shows unique shifts in CUze annual
totals due to diverse policies, actions,
and events that shape our community.
While annual emissions have tended to
increase slightly, some reductions have
been made due to effective targeting of
mitigative actions.
IBWA CITY COMMUNITY
0
d
500,000
v
N m
450,000
6
400,000
o
m
m
M
N
350,000
M
O
N
^ �
N p m
� N
ry H
300,000
pJ y
'
250,000
200,000
150,000
100,000
50,000
0
Source . Iowa City landfill division
SUSTAI NADI LITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: ENERGY • 33
Community CO, emissions have varied over the five years calculated, especially
during 2008 when the City flooded. During this period, the University of Iowa
Power Plant was offline for 16 weeks due to flood damage. The University of Iowa
has committed to the reduction of coal usage in their power plant by substituting
alternative fuel types, such as oat hulls and biomass, which has decreased their plant
emissions over this time period. The implementation of the methane capture and
flaring process has reduced landfill emissions since 2000, lowering the rate of waste
emissions by more than 50 %. Emissions from waste have continued to increase since
2008 and the City is looking into new waste -to- energy options that would reduce
total emission levels.
TOTALS BY SECTOR METRIC
N �
p, OJ OJ N
^ N N
N ry N N
■ 2000 '
■ zoos
■ 2009
■ 2010
■ 2011
a
m �
d
-
0
M
6
O%
O
N
O N
O
N
^ �
N p m
� N
ry H
T A T
pJ y
■ 2000 '
■ zoos
■ 2009
■ 2010
■ 2011
a
m �
v
-
6
U �
d
34 • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: ENERGY
Although our per capita emissions are
nearly equal to annual national averages,
world averages are 4 metric tonnes per
capita, and sustainable emissions are
estimated to be only 2 metric tonnes
per capita.
High COie emissions per capita and high consumption of fossil fuels are a
significant environmental, economic, and social issue throughout the developed
world. Reduction steps should be taken since utility costs will continue to increase
as non- renewable fossil fuels are depleted. Initiating gradual reductions is the only
strategic way to produce the necessary CO, levels required to mitigate climate
change. A community -wide reduction goal could assist in raising awareness and
help bring Iowa City closer to sustainable emission levels.
Iowa City has been actively working
The City tracks energy usage for all utility accounts and facilities. With grant
on reducing municipal greenhouse
funds provided by the ARRA, energy efficiency projects were installed in
gas emissions and although emissions
municipal buildings. Energy reports were provided to facility managers that took a
Increased slightly between 2008 and
leading role in changing operations to manage more efficiently and cost effectively.
2011, energy usage has declined in
Energy reduction projects have targeted the wastewater and water plants, parking
several areas.
ramps, street lights and buildings. Energy reductions were observed in all targeted
areas while non - targeted areas showed varying levels of increased energy usage
(including vehicle fleet, transit fleet and or landfill buildings). The City has also
added three new LEED certified buildings and plans to build to LEED standards
whenever possible.
CO2E EMISSIONS PER CAPITA IN IOWA CITY (METRIC TONNES)
23
22 1 21.4
21 20.5
PO 19.8
A— 19.3
19 1 'NO—B.7
18
Source: Iowa City
Landfill Division 0
2000
2008 2009 2010 2011
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: ENERGY • 35
MUNICIPAL CO2E TOTALS (METRIC TONNES)
120,000
100,000 97,174
80,000
60,000 57,277 58,410
40,000
20,000
0
2000 2008 2011
MUNICIPAL ENERGY USAGE
90,000 It
^q N
80,000
70,000 "
M m
60,000
N
50,000
40,000
30,000
20,000
10,000
0
n M
� a
a �
N a
a �
Wastewater
■ 2000
■ 2008
■ 2011
r M
o ro
N N N
O
a M
tN0 O
11I
a
�i:
SRI
Buildings Vehicle Fleet prinking Water Transit Fleet
N n
r n
N
_
N _
Street and
Airport
Landfill
Traffic Lights
Buildings
1
A • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: WATER
IOWA CITY RIVER AND STREAMS
III This map displays
the Iowa River and
its tnbutanes at work
that flow through Iowa
City. It also shows the
city parks and natural
areas, which help
to absorb and filter
precipitation to reduce
run -off and promote
healthier ecosystems.
The thick blue line
indicates the Iowa
River; thin blue lines
indicate streams and
other avers; green
areas indicate parks.
t � RALvI L LE
J
- I -•IOWA CITY
f I
�ONIIES
ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: WATER
The Iowa City Public Works Department oversees the water supply, wastewater, and stormwater
management systems for the city.
More than 300 miles of underground piping for each the
wastewater and drinking water supply transports water
through the City. the Water Division provides clean, safe
water for Iowa City, providing an average of 5.5 million
gallons per day. Six groundwater wells and four alluvial
wells combined with water drawn from the Iowa River
and a manmade pond provide water for the City. the
City owned dam at Peninsula Park was refurbished to
ensure consistent water levels for all alluvial well sources.
The 200 -acre Water Works Park and 90 -acre Peninsula
Park offer woodland, wetlands and a reconstructed
prairie that serve as wellhed protection. They also provide
recreational trails for citizens and natural habitat for
Plants and animals.
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: WATER • 37
SUSTAINABILITY INDICATORS: ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: WATER
Total Water Consumption
•
Total water consumption per capita, measured in gallons
Drinking Water Quality
•
Annual percent of drinking water quality testing meeting EPA standards
Gallons of Treated Municipal Water
U
Annual gallons of municipal water treated annually
Wastewater Quality
•
Annual percent of wastewater End, TSS, and Ammonia nitrogen meeting NPOES standards
Biosolids
•
Tans of Class A biosolids produced and land applied
Sanitary Sewer Overflows
•
Annual number of sanitary sewer overflows
Green Roots
O
Number and area of green roofs
Urban Stream Bank Conditions
U
Percent of assessed urban stream miles with stable stream bank rating
Iowa River Water Quality
O
A section of the Iowa River within Iowa City is an El Impaired Waters List
Local Stream Water
•
Average levels of nitrates and phosphorus under Level of Concern using IOWATER sampling methods
Floodplain Management
•
Recognized by F.E.M.A. as Class 8 CRS Community
• = within or exceeding acceptable level
0= below desired level
U= unclassified
The Wastewater Division maintains two treatment plants, The Engineering Division developed a Stormwater
17 lift stations, and over 300 miles of sanitary sewer pip-
ing, while processing an average of nine million gallons of
wastewater each day (this includes wastewater from UI).
Staff members measure and report 120 different tests each
month to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources for
both influent waste and treated effluent. the north plant,
built in the 1930'x, will be decommissioned soon, while
construction is currently underway that will expand the
City's treatment capacity at the south plant. the south
wastewater treatment plant will also switch to ultraviolet
disinfection, which is safer, requires less contact time than
chlorine disinfection. the wastewater plant also produces
Class A Biosolids, which undergo heating over 140 °F to
remove pathogens. Biosolids can then be land applied in
Place of fertilizer because they are nutrient -rich, organic
materials containing nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus
that benefit soils and plants.
Management Program that protects waterways from
pollutants that are harmful to downstream cities and
ecosystems. As stormwater flows off roofs, streets, and
land surfaces, it picks up oil, chemicals, pesticides,
debris, and soil, which enter drainage systems and
pollute waterways. The Stormwater Utility uses strategic
monitoring, planning, and management programs to
protect waterways and informs developers, contractors,
residents and businesses of Best Management Practices
to reduce stormwater runoff (such as construction site,
stream management, rain gardens, and pervious pavers).
They also promote and coordinate volunteer efforts for
stream cleanup projects and ensure compliance with
federal regulations for sediment control. 'These efforts
reduce the amount of pollutants flowing into waterways
and help preserve water quality and stream habitat.
1
A • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: WATER
Though the population has grown,
consumption patterns have remained
low. Water consumption per capita
has declined slightly overall during the
2007 -2011 period.
Daily water consumption per capita in the United States is estimated to be more
than 80 -100 gallons (U.S. Geological Survey). Iowa City's water plant and
wastewater treatment plant combined use one -third of the energy needed for
municipal operations, therefore water conservation is on the lower end of average for
consumption in the United States. Water conservation is a growing concern as our
county's population continues to grow.
ANNUAL WATER CONSUMPTION PER CAPITA (GALLONS) DAILY WATER CONSUMPTION PER CAPITA
30,500 30,113.3 83
30,000 29,sz9a zs,593s 82
zs,szz.s
29,500 81
29,000 80
28,819.6
28,500 79
82.5
79.0
7
0 1 0
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
Source. Iowa City Water Division, Consumer Confidence Reports Source. Iowa City Water Division, Consumer Confidence Reports
The Iowa City Water Division has had no Safe and healthy drinking water is important for maintaining a healthy population,
health -based drinking water violations but it also serves as an indicator of environmental quality. With roughly 2 billion
in the last 5 years. More than 67,666 gallons of treated water pumped to Iowa City residences and businesses each year,
residents of Iowa City are served efficient and dependable management and treatment practices are essential. The EPA
by the Iowa City Water Plant. ensures healthy water quality by thorough monitoring in addition to establishing
limits, called maximum contaminant levels, which define the absolute extent of
allowable concentrations of contaminants in the water supply. Failure to meet these
guidelines can produce waters with high levels of chemicals and bacteria, which can
result in adverse health effects. The Iowa City Water Division's thorough monitoring
and treatment strategies have consistently produced clean, safe, and healthy drinking
water for the city.
ANNUAL TREATED MUNICIPAL DRINKING WATER
(BILLIONS OF GALLONS)
Source: 2088 -2012
Consumer Confidence 2007 2009 2009 2010 2011
Reports, Iowa City Water
Division 2.01 2.00 1.99 2.01 2.01
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: WATER • 39
Removal of carbonaceous biochemical
Iowa City's north and south wastewater treatment plants ensure that wastewater is
oxygen demand (CBODs), total
tested and treated to remove pollutants and contaminants, as required by federal
suspended solids, and ammonia
regulations, before discharging water to the Iowa River. Regulations require a
nitrogen has met, or greatly exceeded
reduction of CBOD and total suspended solids by more than 85 %, but Iowa City's
the requirements of the EPA's National
wastewater plants have consistently removed more than 96% of each for the last 5
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System.
years. Ammonia nitrogen regulations fluctuate in acceptable concentration limits
throughout the year, but there have been no violations during this period and
reductions have been greater than 92 %. These results show that the wastewater
plants have been effectively treating water, ensuring that natural ecosystems and
other downstream water users have continued access to safe, healthy water.
WASTEWATER QUALITY: POLLUTANT REMOVAL
Carbonaceous Total
Biochemical Suspended Ammonia
Oxygen Demand Solids Nitrogen
Source: Wastewater
2007 974% 974% 95.9%
Treatment Plant Iowa City
2008 976% 96.9% 95.2%
Wastewater Inner
2009 973% 971% 94.4%
Source Wastewater Treatment
2010 972% 9fi.9% 95.2%
Reports, Iowa City
Wastewater Division
2011 976% 970% 920%
Though the production of biosolids has
Biosolids are the pathogen -free residuals from treated wastewater and they often end
declined In recent years, the leftover
up incinerated or buried in landfills for disposal. However, as a nutrient -rich product,
volume In storage has continually supplied
they can be put to use as a fertil izer, saving money and providing a beneficial
large amounts to he land applied.
function for the product. In Iowa City, production of biosolids has slowed in recent
years, but with high amounts in storage, the amount of biosolids that have been
land applied has remained high. Continued application will ensure high levels of
nutrients in soils and plants, increasing potential for growth and offsetting the use of
manufactured fertilizer use.
TONS OF BIOSOLIDS PRODUCED AND APPLIED
1,750 1,730 — Produced
1,471 1,542 1A69 1,559 — Applied
1,500
500 1,2
1,250
1,209
Source: Wastewater
1,196
Treatment Plant Iowa City
1,662
Wastewater Inner
0
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
1
49 • SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: WATER
Sanitary sewer overflows that the City
When sanitary sewer overflows occur due to clogs in pipes that do not reside on
is responsible for declined dramatically
personal property, the city must act to correct the damage. preventative measures
during the 2007 -2009 period, and have
include jetting blasting high pressure water through the sewer to clean pipe sides
remained low ever since. AS a result,
and flush residue through the system, as well as televised sewer lines which allow
expenditures have fallen dramatically,
diagnosis of problems and implementation of appropriate solutions. There are more
"
reducing COSfS SINCe 2002
than 300 miles of sanitary sewer pipeline ranging from 6 -96" in diameter in Iowa
Source: Roger Overton,
City. This length, combined with the low frequency of overflows under the City's
Assistant Superintendent,
responsibility, indicates the effectiveness of preventative measures in maintaining
Iowa City Wastewater DiNsion
functional sanitary sewer systems.
SANITARY SEWER OVERFLOWS
Calls City
City Expenditures
Total Responsibility Due to SSO's
2007 52 23 567,304
2008 53 17 517,872
2009 43 7 520,135
Source: Roger Overton,
p010 47 7 $7,310
Assistant Superintendent,
Iowa City Wastewater DiNsion
2011 47 7 S11,831
Iowa City has two green roofs that cover
Green roofs are vegetation - covered roofs of buildings that absorb rainwater, provide
more than 1,000 ft' total. The Willowwind
insulation, maintain habitat for wildlife, and lower urban air temperatures, and
green roof was Constructed In 2007,
absorb carbon dioxide, among their many benefits. Iowa City has the opportunity
while the city owned ESRC green roof
to increase the number of green roofs by encouraging developers to explore
was finished in 2011,
these unique, aesthetically- pleasing, practical, and beneficial roof environments
throughout the design and construction process, increase biodiversity, and provide
educational opportunities. As new buildings are built and more land is developed,
green building practices can incorporate these environmental practices.
GREEN ROOFS
Location Area Installation Date
East Side Recycling Center 700 sq.ft. 06/01/2011
Willowwind School 416 sq.ft. 10/31/2007
Source:
Rooftop Students, LIC
Total 1,116 sq.fL
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: WATER • 41
Willow Creek was assessed from 2010-
Urban streams can be seen as an amenity within a community by providing habit,
2012 using RASCAL (Rapid Assessment
aesthetic beauty and recreational opportunities. They can also be polluted and
01 Stream Conditions along Length), an
will flood or erode land if the stream is not managed. Iowa City has three streams
assessment tool which analyzes 14 data
within the City limits, Ralston, Willow and Snyder Creek. Stream bank erosion can
Variables to determine the physical
affect water quality, destabilizing purchased land and increasing sediment to the
conditions 01 a Stream. Assessment began
stream. All three streams flow into the Iowa River, carrying sediment and decreasing
In 2013 for portions of Ralston Creek.
water quality. A greater number of roads, parking lots, roofs and impermeable
surfaces have increased stormwater runoff and accelerated erosion. Assessment of the
physical conditions of the stream banks for erosion allows the City to be aware of
structures, such as storm drains, sewer lines, or buildings that have been or will be
compromised. All three creeks in the City will need to be assessed for this indicator
to be analyzed and for effective management to be implemented.
BANK STABILITY: WILLOW CREEK WATERSHED, JOHNSON COUNTY.
•�! � � Airpnrx
■ S .hwa
C Iowa Hlghwara
x` 5LL�ai.IS.anmlar. Rwdx
_ = Afunicipal A v
"�.. S1 q. ..P1 Aw e.l
e r
Hank sut lllty t,ot
^-• Stable -
MlnvrEmion a -
Moderate Erasion
nus
G
113u. ass I n.w..
0
-n8u j,Awe C J
4i • SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: WATER
Rivers and streams that pass through
Iowa City is dissected by the Iowa River. A portion of the river is on the Iowa
Iowa City include the Iowa River, Ralston
Department of Natural Resources 303D List due to high levels of bacteria. While
Creek, Willow Creek, and Snyder Creek.
Iowa City is not responsible for upstream pollution , we are accountable for the
The Quality of these bodies of water
City's contribution. Point source pollution bacteria can enter streams when sewer
should continue to be monitored and
lines break, from transient encampments or even improper disposal of dog waste.
Improved.
Nonpoint sources from Iowa City's streams also add sediment loads via flow and
bank erosion carrying such contaminants as nitrogen and phosphorous from
lawns. Stabilization and restoration projects are planned as funding is available.
The City and the University of Iowa are exploring recreational uses on the Iowa
9
River increasing efforts to evaluate and to improve water quality.
The City of Iowa City has sampled two of
the three streams within the city limits
for the last five years. Weekly samples
taken from May through November for
chemical analysis show that stream
nutrients are under the "Level of
Concern" for nitrate and phosphorus with
the exception for 2012.
RALSTON CREEK NUTRIENT
J
E
d
W
6
L
d
a
e
m
a
Q
Within the city limits there are three creek watersheds. Ralston Creek has a
5,850 acre watershed which falls within the City limit. This creek has historic
significance for the City but also has issues with flooding in residential and
downtown areas. Willow Creek has a watershed of 3,347 acres, runs through the
City's Willow Creek Park and has recently undergone a stream bank assessment
and bank stabilization project. Snyder Creek's watershed is the largest at 16,400
acres, but most of the watershed includes agricultural land to the east of the city
limits. Snyder Creek's watershed within the city limits falls in an industrial area
and is starting to be evaluated for stream bank issues. From the data over the last
five years, our streams in Iowa City appear healthy.
■ Nitrate ■ Phosphate — Nitrate Level of Concern
20.0 1 o--
2.0
1.8
1.6
1.4
1.2
1.0
0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
0.0
m
N
WILLOW CREEK NUTRIENT LEVELS
— Phosphate Level of Concern — Precipitation
48.32
O
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
Sources: IOWATER for all often stream data, and the National Weather Snake Weather Forecast Office for precipitation averages (h fi // www. orh.noaagav/dvn/?rr= cllmatelocap
60
50
M
40
W
9
34 .93
O
9
30
26.12
20
'.
a
0
10
0
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
Sources: IOWATER for all often stream data, and the National Weather Snake Weather Forecast Office for precipitation averages (h fi // www. orh.noaagav/dvn/?rr= cllmatelocap
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: WATER • 43
With approximately 2,716 acres of
Iowa City consists of 27.9 square miles of diverse and rolling topography of
development In Iowa City's floodplain, It
which about 15% lies within the 100 and 500 year floodplains. Most of the
is important to protect the malty homes
floodplain through the core of the community is a part of the University of Iowa
and businesses In the area In order to
Campus. Iowa City has been a leader in floodplain management and developed
minimize flood Impacts to Secure other
its first floodplain maps over 50 years ago. Over the years, Iowa City has actively
areas against develoment.
worked to purchase floodplain property and convert it to parkland and other flood
resistant uses. Today, Iowa City's floodplain management ordinance provides the
highest level of protection in the State.
FLDDDPLAINS
► The dotted line
indicates the 2008
flood boundary; the
blue areas indicate
the FEMA 100 -year
floodplain; the orange
areas indicate the
FEMA 500year
floodplain.
C L V I LL
F:
- I A
---GA Y
IrV E "ff S V
H IG�
1
I
1
44 • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: WASTE REDUCTION
SUSTAINABILITY INDICATORS: ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: WASTE REDUCTION
Per capita Solid Waste
O
Per capita tons of solid waste sent to landfill
Household Hazardous Waste
•
Pounds of HHW received annually; number of customers annually
Recycling
O
Tannage of recycled material
Multifamily Unit Recycling
O
Percent of multifamily units with on -site recycling
Composting
•
Productive use of compost
• = within or exceeding acceptable level
0= below desired level
U= unclassified
ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: WASTE REDUCTION
With growing populations and high levels of consumption, waste production is an increasingly
important factor in the environment and requires intensive management systems.
The average American produces approximately 4.5 pounds /day (U.S. EPA)
one of the highest per capita in the world. Large reductions are necessary to
establish sustainable waste practices. the Iowa City Landfill and Recycling
Center processes waste from Johnson County, Kalona, and Riverside, taking
in an average of 120,000 tons of trash annually. the landfill has been in its
current location since 1971 and occupies 400 acres in total, half of which
holds buried trash. the landfill is projected to remain in operation at its
current location for another 23 years. the remaining land serves as a buffer
zhe landfill also participates in the IowaDNR's
for surrounding properties and wetlands. the Iowa Waste Reduction and
Environmental Management Synem, which is
Recycling Act was legislated in 1989, resulting in the ban of yard waste, tires,
a voluntary program to encourage responsible
management while setting baselines and tracking
lead acid batteries, appliances, and oil from Iowa landfills. This led to the
continuous improvement. In addition, the City is
development of recycling programs that handle these other forms of waste
considering ideas for innovative comprehensive waste
reduction technologies at landfill
and divert them from the landfill.*
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: WASTE REDUCTION • 45
Waste for Johnson County has remained Solid waste production per capita rose in 2008 when a large flood impacted many
fairly consistent despite the growing homes. The number has trended down about 5% annually since then although
population In the landfill service area. population has continued to increase in Johnson County. Increased recycling, the
downturn in the economy and reduced packaging are likely contributors to waste
reduction. Even with this decrease, the average per capita solid waste production is
still slightly above the national average of 1,640 pounds annually.
PER CAPITAL SOLID WASTE (LDSIPERSON)
2,000
1,750
1,500
1,250
Source. Iowa City Landfill and
Recycling Center, Iowa City o
Landfill Division,
U.S. Census Bureau 0
,99a
1,805
1,789
1,703 1,690
2007
Household hazardous waste (HHW) disposal has remained
relatively stable since 2008, after a large number of pounds
received in 2002 Drop -off appointments, which have increased
each year, are required for disposal and reflect the continual
expansion of the program.
Source. Iowa City Landfill &
Recycling Center, Iowa City
Landfill Division
2008 2009 2010 2011
Household hazardous waste products are those containing,
"corrosive, toxic, ignitable, or reactive ingredients" these
are often found in paints, cleaners, vehicle fluids, batteries,
and fluorescent bulbs (U.S. EPA). All residents of Johnson
County, Riverside, and Kalona utilize the Iowa City Landfill's
Hazardous Waste Collection Facility It is important that
hazardous materials are disposed of properly to protect residents'
homes, the community, and the natural environment. The
growing number of customers and diminished volume of HHW
suggest that high awareness of these hazardous materials has
inspired responsible disposal practices.
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE
2997 2999 2999 2919 2911
HHW received (in Ibs) 125,627 57,302 59,937 58,703 55,707
HHW customers 1,527 1,530 1,729 1,893 2,070
1
A • SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: WASTE REDUCTION
Since 2008, tonnages for both the
In 2008, the City received funding to improve and advertise the drop-off sites.
curbside recycling program and the
Curbside information was included in the advertising, which has contributed to
materials Collected at the five City-
the increases in both areas. In addition, the number of drop-off sites increased
operated drop -off recycling locations
from four to five between 2007 and 2008; the number of households served
have increased.
curbside has increased steadily each year with the growth of the number of homes
within Iowa City. Even with these increases, only about 65% of the residents who
have curbside service use it regularly and about half of what goes into the Iowa
City Landfill each year is plastic, cardboard, paper and metal which could have
been recycled.
HOUSEHOLDS WITH CURBSIDE RECYCLING
drop -off curb total tons
2008 333 1,219 1,552
2009 507 1,435 2,002
Source. Iowa City Landfill and 2010 587 1,486 2,072
Recycling Court 'r Iowa C" p011 548 1,512 2,080
Landfill Division, U.S. Census
Bureau 2012 587 1,538 2,125
Recycling programs in Iowa City include curbside pick -up,
household hazardous waste, used motor oil and a -waste recycling,
home appliances, lawnmowers, carpet and bicycles. The recently
opened East Side Recycling Center provides a site for residents
to reuse and recycle materials through Habitat for Humanity's
ReStore, the Salvage Barn, and the Furniture Project.
The East Side Recycling Center includes a LEED platinum-
certified environmental education center, drop -off recycling
bins, oil waste recycling and e -waste drop -off and compost
and wood chips sales. The annual Rummage In The Ramp
effort began in 2007 to keep tons of reusable material out of
the landfill during the rental housing lease changeover at the
end of July. During this time, residents can buy and donate
furniture, electronics, beds, and more, as they leave /take up
residence in the city.
RUMMAGE IN THE RAMP
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
Source. Iowa City Landfill &
Recycling Center, Iowa City
Landfill Division Tons sold & diverted from landfill 20 19 24 25.8 23.5
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: WASTE REDUCTION • 47
For the roughly 1,030 Iowa City apartment
A pilot project from February through December of 2012 researched best practices
complexes and condominium associations
for implementing recycling programs for apartments with more than four units. A
without City service, only 4% of offer
best - practices manual was completed and made available to Iowa City landlords.
on -site recycling at their complexes.
This is an important step for our community because the high student population
compost at home.
results in a higher proportion of rental housing than comparably -sized cities.
200
Though there are several recycling drop -off sites in Iowa City, many students do
2012
not own cars and therefore would not be able to transport their recyclables.
Iowa City Community Compost Is popular
The ICLF has composted yard waste since 1988 when astate law banned it from
and 100% Of available stock has sold
landfills in Iowa. At ICLF, yard waste is either ground up into wood chips or
out since 2009. Residential composting
composted; both products are available to residents and commercial users for
Is also encouraged and many citizens
landscaping. In 2009, the incoming yard waste increased significantly due to flood
compost at home.
debris. In 2007, a limited amount of food waste was accepted in the compost program;
200
in 2010 a permit amendment allowed for an increase in the amount of food waste.
2012
Multiple community partners now contribute food waste to the program, including
8.750
the University of Iowa (Hillcrest and Burge Dining Services), Regina Catholic Schools,
New Pioneer Co -op, and the Bluebird Diner. About 170 tons of food waste were
processed in the composting program in 2012.
CITY COMPOST
TOTAL TONS COMPOSTED AT THE IOWA CITY LANDFILL
BIN SALES
12,500
2009
25
11,250
2010
150
2011
200
10,000
2012
225
8.750
7,500 6,715
6,250
Source. Iowa City Landfill and
Recycling Center, Iowa City
Landfill Clvlalon. 0 2007
2008 2009 2010 2011
1
A • SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: NATURAL ECOSYSTEM
ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: NATURAL ECOSYSTEM
Nearly 200 years age, 83% of Iowa was tallgrass prairie broken by forests and wetlands along rivers
and streams.
Today 97% of the state is farmland and Iowa has
been called one of the most altered landscape in the
country. Native ecosystems benefit people in many ways.
They clean water, and air, provide flood protection by
decreasing runoff, sequester carbon, and are habitat for
a wide array of animals, insects, microbes and plants
that provide us with medicine, pollination, foods, and
aesthetic beauty. Natural ecosystems are no longer able
to maintain themselves due to the absence of beneficial
processes such as wild fires. Meanwhile, new challenges,
such as invasive species and overly abundant nutrients in
the water threaten natural populations.
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: NATURAL ECOSYSTEM • 49
SUSTAINABILITY INDICATORS: ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: NATURAL ECOSYSTEM
Forest Ecosystem
•
Total acres of municipal owned forest
Prairie Ecosystem
•
Total acres of municipal owned prairie
Wetland Ecosystem
•
Total acres of municipal owned wetland acres including City wetland mitigation projects
Tree Canopy /Street Tree Diversity
U
Percent coverage of trees within city limits; percentage of all street tree species
• = within or exceeding acceptable level
0= below desired level
U = unclassitled
Natural ecosystem management practices that focus
on restoration and maintained function of native Iowa
habitat are crucial to sustaining these resources. Iowa
Street tree inventories are useful management tools in
the urban landscape, especially in cases of emerging
threats such as the Emerald Ash Borer. This insect
City owns over 800 acres of forests, wetlands and prairies. has been found in the state and nearby counties and
Management of these areas includes annual evaluation,
prescribed burning and control of invasive species. This
process is very labor intensive and presently relies upon
significant volunteer effort to be effective. The success
of natural areas management can be measured by their
biodiversity or lack thereof
has been known to devastate Ash tree populations.
Evaluation of the species, age, condition, and location
of the City's tree population would facilitate enhanced
response efforts and minimize damage should an
infestation occur. Tree canopy information would also
contribute important information for assessing heat
island effect and stormwater runoff modeling.
1
51 • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: NATURAL ECOSYSTEM
Iowa City Is home to 41 parks, more than
Natural areas provide opportunities for outdoor activity and education, protect
34 miles of rivers and streams, and over
species diversity and the quality of water and Soil, and reduce the occurrence
800 acres which Contain prairie, Wetland
and severity of floods as well as erosion. Very little of Iowa's natural ecosystem
and forest.
exists, and while many of the acres are constructed prairies and wetlands (i.e.,
not remnants), the City has made an effort to plant native species in efforts to
restore these types of ecosystems which once used to be abundant in Iowa. The
table below provides the acreage of Iowa City's natural areas, which includes the
Waterworks Park, 230 acres of constructed prairie and wetlands with a variety of
native plants. The City also owns Ryerson Woods, which may soon gain preserve
status and Hickory Hill Park, which includes 185 acres of woodland. Invasive
species are a large threat to these ecosystems so they require continued monitoring
and diverse management technique.
NATURAL ECOSYSTEM COVERAGE
Source : Iowa City Parks &
Urban Forest 425 acres
Forestry Division; Property
Prairie 211 acres
Information Viewer.
Johnson County
Wetland 96 acres
Tree Canopy reflects the Space Covered
The National Arbor Day Foundation's Tree City USA program is coordinated in
by trees In the Community. Urban forests
Iowa by the DNR's Forestry Bureau with the goal of enhancing the benefits of
Clean the air, provide habitat for Wildlife,
trees in local communities. Iowa City has been named a Tree City USA for 32
absorb stormwater, reduce the heat
years. Requirements include that the city employ a city forester or active tree board,
Island effect, and provide aesthetic,
establish a tree ordinance, spend at least $2 per capita for the community forestry
natural beauty for our city.
program, proclamation sDB include
[ rmw ter management, erosion control higher
reduced costs for nergy,
property values, among many others. For more than 15 years, the City of Iowa City
has maintained a Memorial Tree Program in which trees can be purchased and
planted in memory of someone who has passed away, or in celebration of birthdays,
graduations, weddings, and more. In the last decade, the City has also had a goal
to plant 100 trees annually in City parks and City-owned land to beautify the
landscape. Tree canopy coverage and street tree species composition data is not
currently available.
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: NATURAL ECOSYSTEM • 51
Ad
• • SOSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: HOUSING
SUSTAINABILITV ASSESSMENT
SOCIAL
Iowa City is a unique and attractive Midwestern community
that provides a wide variety of opportunities for exposure
to arts and culture, collegiate and club sports, natural areas,
and community events and festivals. Residents and visitors
from diverse backgrounds and with varying interests have
many opportunities to engage in the community and identify
with other residents with similar interests. Iowa City's social
atmosphere fosters creativity and engagement, fulfilling
citizens and instilling a connection with those who live here.
Residents demonstrate connection with the community
through high rates of volunteerism, engagement in local arts
and sporting events, and the pursuit of higher involvement
in local schools which can result in greater higher graduation
rates. Environmental conservation, education and economic
prosperity should be coordinated to meet social needs such as
security, prosperity, social interaction, connection to nature,
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: NOOSING • 53
and health. Iowa City sustainabllity indicators show that our
community has good healthcare, many transportation options,
low crime, healthy residents, clean air and drinking water,
and engaged citizens. These traits are indicative of a livable,
rewarding community which provides members with a good
quality of life.
In Iowa City there are numerous social services such as a
shelter house to support the homeless, a free lunch program,
the free medical clinic, substance abuse and behavioral
health services, services for elderly citizens, youth outreach
services, and transitional living places. Having these services
for citizens in times of need is a reflection of the community's
care for all individuals. Enhanced social equity is a key
component of sustainabllity that often goes unrecognized but
is a reflection of the quality of the greater community.
1
• • SOSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: HOUSING
SOCIAL: HOUSING
Iowa City is blend of older historic neighborhoods, newer development and rental properties.
The high student population of the University of Iowa and
Kirkwood Community College account for the fact that
40% of the available housing in Iowa City is composed
of rental properties. Additionally, there are also low- and
high - income rental units available for residents. Location
drives that value for student renters, who are looking
for fair lease agreements, equitable move -in /move -out
policies, building security and timely maintenance. Rental
properties may be lacking in areas such as energy efficiency,
recycling, and water conservation, which could be an
opportunity for future improvements.
Affordability is especially important for renters and
homeowners alike. Residents tend to prefer to live
near their place of employment, other businesses
and entertainment opportunities. Choosing a more
affordable home that is further away from amenities
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: HOUSING • SS
SUSTAINABILITY INDICATORS: SOCIAL: HOUSING
Affordable Housing
U
Percent of population living in affordable housing
Age of Housing Stack
U
Percentage of houses built in each decade
Energy Assistance
U
Percentage of households applying for energy assistance in the form of LIHEAP
Tenure by Household Income
U
Number of owner- and renter - occupied housing units within various income ranges
Homelessness
U
Johnson County percentage of homeless population
Lead Exposure Testing /Poisoning Hale
•
Percent of children under 6 tested for lead poisoning; incidence of lead poisoning among tested children
• = within or exceeding acceptable level
O = below desired level
U = unclassified
means more driving and therefore higher transportation
costs. Affordable housing and transportation also allows
residents to spend their income on other essentials
such as food, health and education, which allow for
greater quality of life. Housing prices are also important
for the job market--affordable homes permit more
residents to reside in the community, which increases
the opportunities for economic growth. Quality homes
and neighborhoods make cities desirable places to live,
providing a cornerstone for development, diversification,
and prosperity.
The City of Iowa City has several programs in place to
ensure affordable and desirable housing options. One
of these is the UniverCity Housing project, in which
the City buys and makes improvements to homes near
downtown. 'These more affordable homes allow owners
to live near the more dense populated and walkable
downtown area. Funding through the City's Housing
Rehabilitation program provides guidance and financial
assistance to help residents rehabilitate and update their
home to help maintain Iowa City's housing stock. the
City also has a rental housing inspection program that
ensures rental properties are safe for residents. New
construction must adhere to the eight visit - ability
requirements established by the 2009 International
Residential Code as amended locally. 'These requirements
promote sustainable housing by ensuring access and
maneuverability for people using wheelchairs or other
mobility aids, reducing the need for costly redesigns or
building expansions. 'These efforts are an important step
for increasing the sustainability of Iowa City's housing.
1
• • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: HOUSING
Affordable housing analysis IU Bowe Iowa City conducts an affordable housing study every five years. The "Affordable
City IS complex duo to the high Student Housing Market Analysis" can be found on the Iowa City website. This study's
population. primary focus is to determine the need for affordable housing for non - student
incomes. Affordable housing is considered to be affordable to households at or below
80% of the median household income in the Iowa City metro area. The most recent
study documented that new residents continued to migration into the Iowa City
region, and that suburban areas are the areas where the most growth is occurring.
Existing demand for affordable housing will continue since many of the houses
produced are higher priced units more than moderately priced units. The City has
several programs in place to insure affordable housing. UniverCity Housing Project
is a program which buys and makes improvements to homes near downtown and
sells them at an affordable cost. The Housing Rehabilitation program provide
assistance to help residents rehabilitate and update their current homes.
► One of the
completed UniverCity
Housing Project
homes.
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: NOOSING • 57
Iowa City has a variety of housing stock,
Older homes in the area are desired by some residents, due to their unique character
Including older houses, newer homes,
and style. Iowa City's Housing Rehabilitation program provides residents financial
and rental units. In the last 15 years the
assistance to help residents repair their homes and preserve older home that may have
area has had two floods and a tornado,
more repair costs. Many of the homes bought by the City through the UniverCity
which destroyed many homes. Also, the
housing are older homes close to campus. These homes are often previously rental
economic downturn In 2008 had an effect
homes that are restored maintaining their character. Newer homes and apartments
1990 to 1999
continue m be constructed. Many of the new apartments constructed are in the
of slowing down Construction, which
downtown region, offering both high end housing and student housing within
was a trend nation -wide.
walkable distances of work, school, and other activities. Iowa City had more than 200
1980 to 1989
homes destroyed during the flood of 2008 damaged and demolition permits were
14.2%
higher than usual during this time, peaking in 2010. Construction permits fell during
14.0%
the time period indicated, likely due to economic reasons.
1970 to 1979
PERCENTAGE DF HOUSING UNITS BY AGE
16.5%
Year Built 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
2005 or later
3.3%
3.8%
4.8%
6.1%
6.9%
2000 to 2004
8.6/0
8.5%
8.5%
8.8%
8.8%
1990 to 1999
13.9%
14.2%
13.9%
13.9%
13.8%
1980 to 1989
14.3%
14.2%
14.0%
14.0%
13.8%
1970 to 1979
16.6%
16.5%
16.3%
16.0%
15.8%
1960 to 1969
11.5%
11.4%
11.4%
11.1%
11.1%
Source: 2011 American 1950 to 1959
11.4%
11.4%
11.3%
10.9%
10.9%
Community Survey 1 -Year 1940 to 1949
5.8%
5.9%
5.8%
5.5%
5.5%
Estimates, U.S. Census
Bureau 1939 or earlier
14.5%
142%
14.0%
13.7%
13.5%
The number of households applying LIHEAP, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, provides energy
for LIHEAP increased regularly from assistance for low -income households to protect vulnerable groups such as children,
2007 -2010, but declined In 2011 and 2012. the elderly, and the disabled. Lowering the cost burden for energy needs also
increases the capacity for these households to attain other necessities, such as
healthcare, education, and healthy food. The flood of 2008 damaged many homes
and businesses, increasing expenses while reducing incomes throughout the area.
Source: Bawkeye Area
Community Action
Program, Inc.
NUMBER DF HOUSEHOLDS APPLYING FOR LIHEAP
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
1,101 1,206 1,354 1,455 1,292 1,254
1
• • SOSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: HOUSING
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: NOOSING • SS
While owner- and renter- occupied
Iowa City has an atypical proportion of rental units due to the University population,
housing units are split evenly, tenure IS
which is expected to earn a lower income. Student populations fluctuate regularly
characterized by income — groups earning
many graduates leave the city while new students take up residence, establishing a
less than$35,000 tend to occupy rental
Perpetual renter- occupied population. As rental units often include utilities as a fixed
units, while those with Incomes greater
component of the rental fee, occupants may not be financially invested in efficiency
than $50,000 are much more likely to
and conservation of their resources (including water, gas, electricity, and heating/
cooling). These units are also not eligible for curbside recycling, which limits the
own households.
effectiveness of waste management programs in the city.
TENURE BY HOUSEHOLD INCOME
■ Owner- occupied ■ Renter - occupied
0
8,000
z 7,000
z 6,000
0 5,000 M
w 4,000 ■
3,000
2,000
Source: 2886-2818 American
n a n
1,000
Community Survey 5 -Year
Estimate, U.S. Census Bureau
0 tO
QOk 20k -35k 35k -50k 50k -75k >75k
HOMES THAT COST MORE THAN 30% OF INCOME
■ Iowa City ■ Iowa ■ United States
800/0
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
100 /a
Source: 2010 Census.
U.S. Census Bureau 0
9.
Owner- occupied Renter - occupied Total
1
•� • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: HOUSING
Johnson County's homeless population Homeless statistics are not available for Iowa City alone. Iowa City is the largest city
represents 0.7% Of the entire County's in the county and accounts for slightly over 50% of the county's population. The
population. City provides numerous services for those in need, including a shelter house fur the
homeless. Other services include a free medical clinic, and free meal programs to
provide for those in need. A complete list of services for people in need of assistance
can be found on the Iowa City Public Library's website.
HOMELESS STATISTICS 2009 -2010
Johnson
County
Iowa
Number of
Percent of
Percent of
Homeless
Total
Total
Served
Served
Served
By Age
Adults
664
73%
670/c
Children
235
26%
330/c
By Race and Ethnicity
White
426
470A
650/c
Black
453
500A
290/c
Hispanic or Latino
57
fiOA
80/0
By Gender
Male
473
520A
520A
Female
428
470A
470A
With A Long -Term Disability
Total With At Least One Disability
174
190A
250A
Alcohol
59
70A
10OA
Drugs
44
50A
10OA
Mental
125
140A
150A
Physical/ Medical
74
BOA
BOA
Homeless Extent
First Time
323
34%
40%
Source: The 2010 Community
Multiple Times
319
34%
39%
Needs Assessment Indicators
Ongoing or Chronic
295
31%
21%
Report United Way of
Johnson County
Total
904
100%
100%
SIISTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: NOOSING • 61
From 2007 -2009, Johnson County
Lead poisoning occurs most frequently in homes with lead paint and dust, as well
averaged a higher percentage of children
as those with lead water pipes. Industrial process can spread lead through the air
tested for elevated blood lead levels
and into the soil, posing risks for the population at large. Due to the high toxicity,
than the state or nation, and found fewer
moderate levels of lead can produce illnesses while high levels can slow development,
incidences of elevated blood lead levels
introduce learning disabilities, and cause comas and death. Elevated blood lead
among the children tested.
levels are especially prevalent in children living in poverty and in older homes, so
the indicator reflects the prevalence of these conditions throughout the population.
Averaging 2007 2009 data, a larger percentage of children in Johnson County are
tested than either the state or nation, and fewer cases of elevated blood lead levels
result, indicating that the area is relatively safe from lead hazards.
PERCENT OF CHILDREN TESTED
FOR ELEVATED BLOOD LEAD LEVELS
— Iowa City — Iowa — United States
604 I 52.3%
50ti/o
40ti/o
30ti/o
12.7%
2007
2008
PERCENT OF CHILDREN TESTED
WITH CONFIRMED ELEVATED BLOOD LEAD LEVELS
1.5ti/o
20%
Source: lead Data, Statistics,
and Surveillance, Centers
100/0
for Disease Control and
Prevention
0
12.7%
2007
2008
PERCENT OF CHILDREN TESTED
WITH CONFIRMED ELEVATED BLOOD LEAD LEVELS
1.5ti/o
— Iowa City — Iowa — United States
95
2009
2007 2008 2009
1
1.00 /o
Source: lead Data, Statistics,
and Surveillance, Centers
.054
for Disease Control and
Prevention
0.00 /o
— Iowa City — Iowa — United States
95
2009
2007 2008 2009
1
• • SOSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: COMMUNITY WELLNESS
SOCIAL: COMMUNITY WELLNESS
Iowa City has a compact, walkable downtown, 48 miles of paved trails, and accessible parks and
green space all of which encourage physical activity.
Easy access to over 800 acres of City owned natural areas
and other open spaces benefits the mental and physical
health of residents and has positive effects on children.
Interest in local food production has increased farmer's
market attendance, community supported agriculture
(CSA) options, a growing number of community gardens
and a number of restaurants focused on the local food
supply and healthy menu options. Air quality can also
affect health, so indicators were chosen to monitor several
measures in that area. Iowa City's recreational facilities
include indoor and outdoor pools and activities are well
used and the Iowa City Senior Center offers a variety
of classes and activities involving physical activities as
well. Community encouragement of healthy activities
also plays a major role in motivating and educating the
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: COMMUNITY WELLNESS • 63
SUSTAINABILITY INDICATORS: SOCIAL: COMMUNITY WELLNESS
Healthy Weight
•
Percentage of adults with a BMI below 30.
Healthy Rinds
O
Percentage of residents who eat who eat adequate fruits and vegetables daily
Farmers Market Attendance
•
Annual estimated attendees at the City's Farmers Market
Community Gardens
U
Square footage of community and school gardens
EPA Air Quality Index
•
Number of days within acceptable limits and number of days in unacceptable limits, annually
Rate of Asthma Incidence
•
Number of asthma - related inpatient discharges from Iowa City hospitals
Particulate Maller
O
Average annual PM2.5 concentration
Radon
O
Percentage of radon- tested household above 4 pci /L
• = within or exceeding acceptable level
O = below desired level
U = unclassified
public about the practices and benefits of healthy living,
and last year, there were 42 races, bike races and parades
in town; a true show of community involvement. Iowa
City was recently designated as one of the ten Blue Zone
Communities in Iowa, a community-based program
that will assist Iowa City in becoming an even more
physically, emotionally, and socially healthier community.
Along with healthy lifestyle, good health care is also
an essential part of a sustainable community. Iowa
City is home to the University of Iowa Hospitals and
Clinics, listed in the U.S. News e3• World Report's
"Best Hospitals in America" report since 1990. U of
I Hospitals and Clinics admits more than 30,000
patients per year from across the state for in- patient
hospital care, in addition to receiving more than 50,000
emergency department visits and 930,000 clinic - patient
visits. Iowa City is also home to the Mercy Hospital,
which is a Blue Distinction Center for heart care and
the only Accredited Chest Pain Center in the county,
as well as the VA Medical Center, which is in the top
ten medical facilities nationally in terms of research
funding. In addition to Iowa City's three hospitals,
Emma Goldman Clinic provides medical and Planned
Parenthood services to women. the Free Medical Clinic
provides medical and dental services for those that are
unable to afford the cost of regular health care.
Since 2008, Iowa City and surrounding communities
have partnered to create a combined response system for
emergencies such as tornadoes, flooding, other natural
disasters or emergencies. The community is in compliance
with the National Incident Management System (NIMS)
in order to respond quickly and effectively to assist citizens
in the area in the event of an emergency.
1
�r< SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: COMMUNITY WELLNESS
Adult obesity In Johnson County Is
Obesity is defined as having a body mass index greater than 30, which significantly
the lowest in all Iowa Counties at
increases the likelihood of developing adverse health conditions such as type 2
23.5%, well below the state and
diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Obesity rates have been increasing considerably
national averages of 30.0% and 30.3%
throughout the nation in recent decades, impacting national health and signifying a
respectively.
shift in production and consumption patterns, as well as food and health education.
Johnson County remains comparatively healthy compared to the rest of the state and
the nation as a whole. With the lowest adult obesity percentage in the state, Johnson
County stands out as a more healthy and food - conscious district, which is likely due
to the large population of those under the age of 34. Nearly one - quarter of Johnson
County adults are still considered obese.
2006 2007 2008 2009
JOHNSON COUNTY HAS THE LOWEST OBESITY
PERCENTAGE IN IOWA AT 23.5%, FOLLOWED BY
WINNESHIEK COUNTY WHICH HAS 24.7% OBESITY.
• 26.3- 29.76/6
• 22.0 - 26.26/6
• 0- 21.96/6
Source: National Diabetes
Surveillance System, Centers
for Disease Control and
Prevention
PERCENTAGE OF ADULT OBESITY
— Johnson County
— Iowa
— United States
356/6
28.9% 30.3%
300/0
28.3%
27.505
28595 30.0%
256/0
27.4%
27.70A
206/0
22.5%
22.1%
23.4% 23.5%
Source: National Diabetes
Surveillance System, Centers
for Disease Control and
Prevention
06/6
2006 2007 2008 2009
JOHNSON COUNTY HAS THE LOWEST OBESITY
PERCENTAGE IN IOWA AT 23.5%, FOLLOWED BY
WINNESHIEK COUNTY WHICH HAS 24.7% OBESITY.
• 26.3- 29.76/6
• 22.0 - 26.26/6
• 0- 21.96/6
Source: National Diabetes
Surveillance System, Centers
for Disease Control and
Prevention
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: COMMUNITY WELLNESS • 65
The percentage of adults Consuming
Though difficult to measure, healthy diets are an essential component of sustainable
adequate amounts of fruits and
communities because they signify and reflect attitudes towards health and personal
vegetables has remained steady, but still
responsibility. In 2008 and 2009, 22.6% of adults consumed an adequate amount
quite low. Poor eating habits Can pose
of fruits and vegetables in Johnson County. While this pattern of low fruit and
a significant risk to the health of the
vegetable consumption is widespread, it is important to promote food responsibility
population.
at the local level to strengthen communities. While data is not available at the
City level, Iowa City has been designated a Blue Zones community. The Blue Zone
Program promotes healthy lifestyle habits and perhaps we will see a rise in this
number due to healthier diets.
1
• • SOSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: COMMUNITY WELLNESS
Iowa City's Farmer's Market has been
Farmer's Markets are excellent opportunities to connect with other members of the
active for 40 years as of 2012 and
community and find healthy, local foods. Iowa City's Farmer's Market has been
averages between 9,000 and 51000
in operation since 1972 —when it first opened there were a maximum of 13 stalls
Customers on a Weekly basis, totaling
used on Saturdays. In 1980, the Wednesday market was added, and by 1999 there
around 200,000 annual attendees.
Were 49 stalls selling goods at the markets. Today, there are 142 stalls on Saturday
and 57 stalls on Wednesday with countless varieties of locally produced fruits,
vegetables, meat, pastries, crafts, and more as popularity and attendance of the
Farmer's Market continues to grow. The city's Farmer's Market was also ranked as
#1 in the state for "America's Favorite Farmer's Markets" by American Farmland
Trust from 2010 -2012. An additional Farmer's Market location is being added in
2013 at Mercer Recreation Center.
Community garden plots available for
Iowa City's community gardens include Wetherby Park, the Broadway Neighborhood
rent allow residents to grow their own
Center, and the Children's Discovery Garden, as well as the New Pioneer Food Co-
fruits and vegetables While Connecting
op's Earth Source Gardens and the Ped Mall's "My SoHmate " beds. The Children's
With other gardeners In the Community.
Discovery Garden totals 1,500 square feet, while We herby Park's community garden
spans an acre, and the Earth Source Gardens encompasses 2 acres divided into 10'
by 50' plots available for rent to the public. Community gardens provide fun and
educational opportunities while reestablishing a direct connection to land and food.
They also facilitate interactions among experienced and beginner gardeners alike,
spreading knowledge and passion for locally grown food.
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: COMMUNITY WELLNESS • 67
Iowa City has a very similar Air
The Air Quality Index compiles measurements of all criteria air pollutants in a
Quality Index to the state of Iowa,
geographical area. By categorizing the levels of pollution, the EPA developed a
though the city averages more days
scale to quantify the degree of healthiness of the air, which can be compared
with "Good" air quality, and less days
over time or between locations to determine the patterns and severity of air
designated as "Unhealthy for sensitive
Pollution. Maintaining healthy air is important for any community as air quality
groups "I "Unhealthy ". In fact, from
impacts the health of the population and the environment, and these monitoring
2007 -2011 Iowa City only had 4 days that
systems allow for emergency responses to be quickly implemented if air quality
Number
becomes dangerously low. In addition to monitoring air quality to ensure safety
were considered "Unhealthy for sensitive
and healthiness, the index captures pollution trends that can be correlated with
groups ", while all of the rest were "Good"
human activities to determine the possible impacts from those activities on local
or "Moderate ".
air quality. Iowa City's Air Quality Index averaged from 2007 -2011 shows that
of Days
three - quarters of the studied days (average number of studied days = 353 /year) are
of Days
designated "Good ", while the remaining quarter is "Moderate ". This consistent
of Days
pattern indicates a stable, healthy quality of air throughout the city, posing no
with AQI
significant risk to human health.
Asthma - related discharges from Iowa
AIR QUALITY INDEX REPORT
City hospitals have consistently remained
has only had 4 days in the last 5 years that were considered unhealthy for sensitive
low, and even shown an overall declining
groups (all of which occurred in 2007 and 2008). With Iowa City's consistently
trend from 2007 -2011.
healthy air quality and the incredibly low frequency of asthma - related discharges
from Iowa City hospitals, it seems clear that there is little, if any, exacerbation of
asthma symptoms due to air quality. Since Iowa City's hospitals serve a regional
population, it is not likely all of the discharges are citizens of Iowa City.
Number
Number
Number
Number
Number
Number
of Days
of Days
of Days
of Days
of Days
of Days
with AQI
Good
Moderate
USG'
Unhealthy
Very Unhealthy
2007 332
241
88
3
0
0
2008 348
281
66
1
0
0
'Unhealthy for Sensitme
2009 356
282
74
0
0
0
Groups. Source: Air
2010 305
251
114
0
0
0
Quality Index Report U.S.
2011 304
205
99
0
0
0
EnNmnmental Protection
Agency
Average 353
204
88
1
0
0
Asthma - related discharges from Iowa
Poor air quality is often a major trigger for asthma exacerbation, however Iowa City
City hospitals have consistently remained
has only had 4 days in the last 5 years that were considered unhealthy for sensitive
low, and even shown an overall declining
groups (all of which occurred in 2007 and 2008). With Iowa City's consistently
trend from 2007 -2011.
healthy air quality and the incredibly low frequency of asthma - related discharges
from Iowa City hospitals, it seems clear that there is little, if any, exacerbation of
asthma symptoms due to air quality. Since Iowa City's hospitals serve a regional
population, it is not likely all of the discharges are citizens of Iowa City.
ACUTE INPATIENT DISCHARGES FOR PATIENTS FROM IOWA CITY
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
Source: Informatlon Center,
Iowa Hospital Association Total Asthma- related Discharges 57 54 58 44 47
1
• • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: COMMUNITY WELLNESS
Average PM2.5 Concentrations In Iowa
PM2.5 refers to particulate matter (particles of dust, dirt, soot, smoke, and liquid
City are slightly higher than both State
droplets found in the air) of less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter. These tiny
and national averages, suggesting that
particles are formed from combustion and industrial activities; they are so small
these types of pollutants are prevalent
that they can be inhaled and accumulate in the respiratory system where they pose
In the City.
significant health risks. States with PM2.5 levels exceeding EPA standards are
designated as nonattainment areas to signify to the public that the air is unhealthy.
In response, these states must produce a state implementation plan and take action
to improve air quality. PM2.5 data in Iowa City is collected at Hoover Elementary
School —their data shows that Iowa and Iowa City have extremely similar PM2.5
concentrations, and both are often higher than the national average. Iowa City's
mean annual PM25 concentration is well below the three -year standard of 15 pg/
m3, but further reductions have the potential for greater health benefits while
decreasing the likelihood of violations.
ANNUAL AVERAGE PM2.5 CONCENTRATIONS
� Iowa City � Iowa � United States
13.0 1
12.2%
12.0 12.0%
11.7%
11.0
10.0
Source: Monitor Values
Report U.S. Emionmental
Protection Agency 0.0
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: COMMUNITY WELLNESS • 69
Radon has retained a consistently high
Radon is released through the ground and soil and enters homes through any
presence In Iowa City for the last two
openings (such as drains, cracks, and joints) in basement walls and floors. Radon
decades, with high levels in more than
is a carcinogenic, naturally occurring gas that is odorless and colorless, making it
one -third of households.
difficult to detect without specialized testing kits. The high frequency of basements
Iowa City
and glacial sediments, as well as a high water table produce large amounts of radon
of tested households
throughout Iowa. The prevalence and potency has lead radon to become the leading
Tip Code
cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers, making it a hazard that must be tested for
above 4pCi /L*
regularly in the home. Concentrations above 4 pCi /L are a significant health risk
52240
and the EPA recommends action to reduce or eliminate radon in these cases. From
44%
1990 -2011, 37% of Iowa City homes were found to exceed this limit, indicating that
52242
radon is a significant health risk for many Iowa City residents. However, statewide
00
measurements show that Iowa City is well below average for the percentage of
52243
households with harmful radon: as many as 49.6% of Iowa households have radon
23%
concentrations above 4 pCi /L.
1
1990 -2011 RADON DATA
Total count
Percent
Iowa City
of households
of tested households
Tip Code
with radon
above 4pCi /L*
52240
6,309
44%
52242
2,303
00
52243
22
23%
52244
101
42%
52245
3,509
45%
*Picocuries per liter
52246
3,622
33%
Source: Radon Program,
Iowa Department of Public
Heath
Total
15,066
37%
1
• • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: ARTS AND CULTURE
SOCIAL: ARTS AND CULTURE
Iowa City is a regional hub for the arts, with a rich community culture
Often called the, "Athens of the Midwest" due to the
artistic, cultural, and educational opportunities that are
available, Iowa City is home to many galleries, venues,
programs, and displays that bring the arts to the forefront
of entertainment throughout the year. In 2008, The
United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural
Organization (UNESCO) designated Iowa City as the
world's third City of Literature, making it a part of the
UNESCO Creative Cities Network. This title reflects
the city's strong link with literature, exemplified in the
Iowa Avenue Literary Walk, which features the words of
writers stamped into bronze plaques with writers words
and artistic images —all 49 authors and playwrights
featured have ties to the state of Iowa. The University
of Iowa Writers' Workshop, which celebrated it 75th
anniversary in 2011, was the first creative writing degree
program in the country, and is known as one of the best
writing programs as well. Iowa City's artistic and cultural
SIISTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: ARTS AND CULTURE • 71
SUSTAINABILITY INDICATORS: SOCIAL: ARTS AND CULTURE
Local Arts • Primary Indicators of Local Arts Index
Library Card Holders • Percent of residents with Iowa City Public Library cards
Volunteerism • Percent of residents who volunteer
Historic Preservation • Number of buildings an the National Register of Historic Places
Voter Participation O Number of residents registered to vote; number of voters in local elections
Senior Center Membership /Programs • Total number of members and programs offered at the Iowa City /Johnson County Senior Center
•
= within or exceeding acceptable level
O
= below desired level
U =
unclassified
focus is exemplified in the restored Iowa Territorial Capitol
building, which now serves as Old Capitol Museum is
located on the U of I campus adjacent to downtown Iowa
City and is an iconic venue for and holds public lectures,
press conferences, performances and celebrations.
The City's rich cultural landscape is celebrated by the
Iowa Cultural Corridor Alliance, which represents
over 120 arts /culture organizations and hosts a website
that features a comprehensive list of upcoming events,
activities, and attractions throughout the region. Iowa
City also sponsors many festivals and events, listed in this
section. The Iowa City Public Art Advisory Committee
advises the City Council on potential sites for public
art enhancement and oversees the Public Art Program,
which includes downtown public arts projects, the
Neighborhood Art Program, public art in city parks, and
the Iowa Art's Showcase Pad. In addition, the University
of Iowa has museums, performances, lectures and
readings that are open to the public and are well attended.
The Iowa City Public Library is a hub of activity that
attracts all ages. The Senior Center is a popular location
hosting events and classes for those over 50, providing a
variety of intergenerational programs and opportunities to
people of all ages. The rate of volunteerism is exceptional,
ranking #3 in the country for mid -sized metros. Iowa
City has a very high voter rate during national elections,
but one area of improvement would be having higher
turnout rates for local elections. Iowa City is an engaged
community that promotes the arts and culture in so many
numerous venues that cater to a wide variety of interests.
The state recently recognized Iowa City with two cultural
districts: the Old Capitol District and the Iowa River
Cultural District. 'These designations help to connect
artists with businesses to enhance economic development
through the support of arts, history and culture.
Certified districts are also eligible for aid from the state
for cultural rehabilitation and development.
1
• • SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: ARTS AND CULTURE
Johnson County produces a large
The Local Arts Index was developed to better understand the characteristics of the
number of graduates In the visual and
cultural life in a community. The Index can be used to compare counties, but also
performance arts, while encouraging
reads as a scorecard for the community's arts participation and industry. The area
numerous independent artists through
Produces an astounding number of graduates from the arts, due to high University
grants and Community support.
enrollment, and receives significant funding from grants for various projects and
Solo artists per 100,000 population
programs. The county also features large numbers of independent artists and
Total nonprofit arts organizations per 100,000 population
residents who readily attend performances and support the arts. However, Johnson
Arts education nonprofit organizations per 100,000 population
County has a limited number of museums and art education organizations
Performing arts and events nonprofit organizations per capita
expansion in these areas could be a significant asset for drawing in more participants
Visual arts nonprofit organizations per 100,000 population
and further engaging the community in the arts.
Millennial share of all arts nonprofits
LOCAL ARTS INDEX —
Revenue share of millennial arts nonprofits
ARTS INDICATORS FOR JOHNSON COUNTY
Expenditures on entertainment admission fees per capita 528.24
Expenditure on music instruments per capita
524.15
NEA grants per 10,000 people, 2005 through 2009
51,38784
State arts agency grants per capita, 2003 -2009
50.40
AAM accredited museums per 100,000 population
.76
National arts education association members per capita
18.34
Solo artists per 100,000 population
370.56
Total nonprofit arts organizations per 100,000 population
20.63
Arts education nonprofit organizations per 100,000 population
.76
Performing arts and events nonprofit organizations per capita
7.64
Visual arts nonprofit organizations per 100,000 population
.76
Millennial share of all arts nonprofits
29.03%
Revenue share of millennial arts nonprofits
22.89%
Competitive environment forthe nonprofit arts
5785%
Visual and performing arts degrees 2003 -2009
2,506.84
Accredited degree granting programs per 100,000 population
2.29
Source: Ara index: A Project "Creative Industries" share of all businesses
4.1%
of americans for dre arts "Creative Industries" share of all employees
20%
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: ARTS AND CULTURE • 73
The Iowa City Public Library serves Iowa
Libraries are an essential community service, and the Iowa City Public Library is
City, Rural Johnson County, University
no exception, serving as a major force within the community to assure equal access
Heights, and Hills —a total population Of
that transcends socioeconomic status. The mission of the Iowa City Public Library is
over 90,000 people. Library cardholders
to serve as, "an innovative and responsive community center that supports lifelong
have grown by nearly 5,000 users since
learning, literacy, and access to the world of ideas." The Iowa City Public Library is
2007, as ICPL now has nearly 70,000
centrally located on the downtown Pedestrian Plaza, easily accessible from all areas
active library cards.
of the City and conveniently located near the downtown Transit interchange. This
accessibility, and a collection of nearly 250,000 materials (including books, magazines,
eBooks, and eMagazines), draws over 760,000 people through the doors of the Library
each year. With over 1.6 million annual circulations of library materials, Iowa City
Public Library is the busiest library building in the state of Iowa.
Source: Annual Reports,
Iowa City Public Library
The Iowa City Public Library serves as a community center, hosting over 2,100
meetings each year in its five public meeting rooms with nearly 27,000 people
attending these meetings. The Library offers free WIFI service throughout the
Library and on the City's Pedestrian Plaza, with nearly 100,000 unique connections
each year. The Library has nearly 50 public internet computers and registers over
113,000 computer sessions each year as well as providing traditional reference service,
answering more than 76,000 questions annually.
The Iowa City Public Library offers unique collections, including the Local Music
Project (music.icpl.org) licensing music from local musicians and offering their
music for free download via the ICPL website. The circulating Art -to-Go collection
enables checkout of visual artwork of local artists while a new service of loaning
Kindle readers with pre - loaded eBooks offers immediate access to eBooks without
the necessity of Internet access. The Library strives to continually improve and
meet the needs and expectations of patrons by expanding collections, programs and
services to better serve the community. This dedication is readily apparent in the
increasing number of active cardholders who benefit from all the Library has to offer.
IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY CARDHOLDERS
■ Cardholders ■ Population Served
Percentages in brown are percentage of Iowans who are library cardholders
100,000 a
ae ae n
80,000 n n n
60,000 80.3% 82.4% 85.195 85.7%
40,000 66.3% 66.5% 6z7% 6z3%
20,000
a
n
n
1 83.7%
68.7%
o �
a
0i
m °0
83.0%
6
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
1
• • SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: ARTS AND CULTURE
The percentage of residents who
Volunteering builds connections, skills, and experiences, while instilling positivity,
volunteer IS Significantly higher than
passion, and focus. Volunteers reflect their sense of community by helping others
both the state and national averages,
and sharing their experiences. The majority of Iowa City's residents have volunteered,
with more than half of residents having
indicating a strong belief in giving back, helping others, and working for the
Volunteered during the 2007 -2010 period.
common good. The flood of 2008 also drew out thousands of volunteers and
Iowa City ranks third In the Country for
helped pull the community together to reduce the flood impact. Iowa City's student
volunteering for cities of similar size.
population is also frequently encouraged to volunteer to gain experience in various
fields as well as connect with peers and potential employers. These programs draw
volunteers further into the community, establishing new connections to their world
and providing valuable opportunities that benefit everyone involved.
VOLUNTEER RATE (2007-2010)
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
Iowa City Iowa United Slates
Source: Volunteering in America
Iowa City has 43 local historic landmark
"The National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate
properties, of which 34 are Individually
and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America's
listed on the national Register of Historic
historic and archaeological resources" (National Register of Historic Places Program).
Places. Iowa City also has eight Historic
Historic places serve as cultural artifacts and preserve the historic character of the
Districts and four Conservation Districts.
ever- changing districts and neighborhoods comprising the community. Iowa City
All eight Historic Districts are listed on
adopted the Historic Preservation Plan in 1992, setting immediate goals and a
the National Register.
work plan to guide future historic preservation to be undertaken by the City and
its citizens. The Plan was updated in 2008 to assess progress and reevaluate goals
and strategies to protect historic places. This update reflects the City's long -term,
continued effort to preserve historic places and maintain the culture that draws so
many people to Iowa City.
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: ARTS AND CULTURE • 75
While more than 70% Of Iowa City's
Voting is an essential element to our democracy that allows residents to select
residents are registered to Vote, the
policies, actions, and candidates for office; communities become defined through the
overall turnout In recent City elections
actions of voters, and the inaction of non - voters, alike. Voters reflect their ideals and
has declined significantly and represents
provide more opportunities for the candidates or positions they support, while non-
a small percentage Of the City's
voters opt out of the political system and sacrifice their chance to influence policies —
this in turn creates a smaller field of opportunities due to the lack of voiced
perspectives and concerns. In Iowa City, as with many other cities, counties, and
states across the nation, voter pools are so small that the majority of the population
is influenced by the selections of a small subset. It is worth noting that in the 2004,
2008, and 2012 presidential elections, Johnson County's voter turnout was roughly
80% of registered voters however, participation in local elections is important for
aligning city goals with community interests. In order to build a more sustainable
city with open communication, common goals, and cooperative partnerships, voter
turnouts in city elections must increase to more accurately represent the community
and facilitate greater public input.
CITY ELECTION VOTING STATISTICS
a
00,000 v v n ■ Tumout
50,000 m v ■ Registered
a
40,000 Source: Voter Registration and
Elections, Johnson County
30,000 Auditor
20,000 '
10,000
N � m
0
v ,e
2007 2009 2011
PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION VOTING STATISTICS
M
n n ■Tumout
100,000 v m m ■ Registered
m
80,000 Source: Voter Registration and
60,000 Elections, Johnson County
Auditor
40,000 m
20,000 M
M
0
2004 2008 2012
• • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: ARTS AND CULTURE
The mission of the Iowa City /Johnson
The Center offers programs, classes and services to the 50+ year -old members of
County Senior Center Is to promote
our community. The Center also offers intergenerational programs and services.
optimal aging among adults 50+ years of
For instance, annually over 500 volunteers of all ages assist in class instruction,
age by offering programs and services
club and activity groups, counseling, supervising evening and weekend activities,
that promote wellness, social interaction,
video production, program planning, community outreach, communication,
community engagement, and intellectual
fundraising, and more. Classes at the Senior Center cover a range of topics,
growth. The Center serves the public
including art, current events, dance, environment, fitness, literature, languages,
history, philosophy, religion, photography, science, technology, and wellness. Free
through intergenerational programming
professional services such as legal, health insurance, and mental health counseling,
and community outreach.
and income tax preparation are available. Regularly updated goals ensure the
expansion of programs and opportunities at the Senior Center are current and in
sync with community needs and interests.
IOWA CITY7JOHNSON COUNTY SENIOR CENTER MEMBERSHIP
1,750 1 ,587
1,500 1,271 1,297 1,39
1,250
1,003 1'U7
1,000
750
500
250
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
Source: Iowa City /Johnson County Senior Center
PROGRAM GUIDE STATISTICS
2097 2008 2009 2010 2011
Programs* 493 657 518 509 520
*Includes unique classes, events, special programs /performances, free professional services, groups,
clubs, and performance groups.
Source: Iowa City /Johnson County Senior Cover
SIISTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: ARTS AND CULTURE • 77
Throughout the year, Iowa City features festivals that engage
residents and visitors in the local arts community.
One Book Two Book (January) www.onebooktwobook.org
University of Iowa Celebrating Cultural Diversity Festival
ccdfestival.uiowa.edu
(February/ March)
Mission Creek Festival (March /April)
www.missionfreak.com
Riverfest (April)
riverfest.uiowa.edu
Irving B. Weber Day (May)
www.icpl.org /weber
Friday and Saturday Night Concert Series (May- September)
www.summerofthearts.org/ festival - menu /concert - series /about.aspx
Iowa City Farmer's Market (May - October)
www.icgov.org / ?id =1108
Iowa Arts Festival (June)
www.summerofthearts.org/ festival - menu /arts - festival /about.aspx '
Riverside Theatre Summer in the Park (June/July)
www.riversidetheatre.org
Iowa City Jazz Festival (June/July)
www.summerofthearts.org/ festival - menu /iazz- festival /about.aspx
Free Movie Series (June- August)
www. summerofthearts. orglfestival- menutmovie- seriestabout.aspx
Iowa City Book Festival (July)
www.iowacitybookfestival.org
Johnson County Fair (July)
www .johnsoncofair.comfindex.html
Iowa Soul Festival (September)
www.summerafthearts.org
Landlocked Film Festival (October)
landlockedfilmfestival.org
Oktoberfest (October)
www. northsideoktoberfest .com /index.php
' • SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
SUSTAINABILITV ASSESSMENT
THE UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
The University of Iowa is an integral part of the Iowa City
area. The University brings in over 30,000 students a year and
employs over 27,000 people, including the University of Iowa
Hospitals and Clinics. In 2009, the University of Iowa com-
missioned an economic impact report that determined the UI
annually generates $6 billion for the Iowa economy. Visitors to
the UI contribute $208 million to the economy each year. As
a major research institution, government and industry funding
for these efforts alone contribute an economic income of
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • UNIVERSITY OF IOWA • 78
With the establishment of the UI Office of Sustainability in 2008
and an increased campus -wide commitment to sustainability,
a new vision for sustainability was created which became the
University of Iowa 2020 Vision. In October 2010, President Sally
Mason announced the University of Iowa's ambitious sustain-
ability goals to be achieved by the end of the decade. As noted in
the UI 2020 Vision, "It is the product of planning and initia-
tives undertaken by hundreds of people, including faculty, staff
and students, as well as UI administrators. It sets out plans that
$963 million. Overall, the University of Iowa supports $1 out have been adopted to pursue and expand sustainability efforts in
of every $30 in the Iowa economy. With such economic and
social activity, the University of Iowa is an important and cm-
cial entity to consider when assessing the overall sustainability
of the City of Iowa City. In order to accomplish this, it is nec-
essary to explore the University's commitment to sustainability
through its academics and curriculum, social involvement,
and campus -wide initiatives and programs (Economic Impact
Report, University of Iowa, 2010).
several key areas of operations, research, education, and outreach.
...The 2020 Vision does not capture all that is being done, nor is it
intended to preclude the development of new initiatives and new
Plans. To the contrary, by stating these medium -term goals clearly
and forthrightly, we aim to set a floor, not a ceiling, on insti-
tutional efforts toward sustainability" The 7 goals are outlined
verbatim below. President Mason and EPA Region Seven Admin-
istrator, Karl Brooks, commemorated the adoption of the 2020
Sustainability Targets by jointly signing the EPA Sustainability
Partnership Program Agreement on Friday, Oct. 29, 2010.
' • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
1.
Achieve Net-Negative The UI will employ energy conservation efforts, build LEED facilities, modernize
aged building systems, and nurture a culture of conservation to reach the goal of
Energy Growth consuming less energy on campus in 2020 than in 2010, despite projected growth.
Strategies to be pursued over the course of the decade:
• The UI will continue to update building design standards to lower the impact of growth.
• The UI will continue to pursue aggressive energy conservation opportunities.
• Campus divisions and departments will be incentivized to conserve energy.
• Building HVAC systems will be upgraded employing more energy efficient designs.
• Commissioning and retro- commissioning efforts will become standard practices.
• A branded energy conservation marketing effort will be developed and implemented.
I
rW3
SIISTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • UNIVERSITY OF IOWA • 81
University ProgranlS To address energy conservation and sustainability in new construction, the Iowa
Board of Regents Sustainability Initiative (adopted April 2009: http: / /www.vpaf
uni.edu/ energy / dots/ CampusSustainabilityBORInitiativePartII .pdf) requires all
major projects (new buildings and major capital renovations) initiated after April 1,
2009 shall meet or exceed the U.S. Green Building Council's guidelines for silver
level LEED certification.
As of April 2013, University of Iowa LEED • Beckwith Boathouse, LEED Gold, 1st LEED project on campus
projects of note include: . Sports Medicine Clinic, LEED Gold, 1st healthcare project in the state
• State Hygienic Laboratory, LEED Gold
• Stuit Hall Renovation (formerly Old Music Building), LEED Gold,
1st LEED renovation on campus
• Information Technology Facility, LEED Platinum
• Dental Science Building Addition, LEED Gold
• College of Public Health Building, LEED Platinum
The UI adopted a Conservation and Energy Management Plan in 2007. The plan
provides guidelines for meeting future energy demand and a framework for the
internal energy conservation fund. The University of Iowa also adopted sustainable
construction standards which have been incorporated into the overall campus design
standards. These standards include a minimum requirement of LEED Silver for new
construction and major renovation, the requirement to give preference to design
professionals with LEED certification experience, the requirement for new budding
and major capital renovation projects that alter mechanical and electrical systems to
exceed the current American Society of Heating, Refrigerating &Air Conditioning
Engineers (ASHRAE) 90.1 and to incorporate the latest energy efficient lighting
design guidelines. The University of Iowa Facilities Management incorporates
a "total cost of ownership" approach in the selection of project equipment and
materials. This approach includes a lifecycle cost analysis and the application of the
triple bottom line and sustainability principles.
New tools in energy conservation include the Energy Control Center and building
dashboards. The Energy Control Center serves as a centralized location for the
monitoring, analysis, and efficient dispatching of utility systems. Live displays
of energy use (budding dashboards) for all of the buildings connected to the
main campus utilities systems (steam, electric, chilled water) are monitored and
evaluated by energy engineers. The building dashboards display of real -time energy
consumption to help building occupants track energy usage and provide immediate
feedback on their energy conservation efforts.
' • SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
2.
Green Energy Portfoflo The UI will pursue a renewable energy supply strategy that optimizes long -term
Energy supply and fuel price stability while preserving an ability to test and take advantage
of other potential fuels. As the UI transitions from dependency on fossil fuels, it
will increase the use of biomass, geothermal, solar, wind, landfill gas, gasification,
and other emerging energy alternatives to achieve the goal of 40 percent renewable
energy consumption on the campus by 2020.
University ProgramS In 2012, EPA's Green Power Partnership (GPP) recognized the University of
Iowa as number 17 on its Top 20 On -site Generation list for its generation and
use of renewable electricity. EPA's Green Power Partnership works with a variety
of organizations, including Fortune 500 companies, agencies at all levels of
government, and a growing number of colleges, universities, and schools, to promote
the use of green power. EPA defines green power as electricity produced from solar,
wind, geothermal, biogas, biomass, and low- impact small hydroelectric sources.
The University of Iowa is recognized for for using biomass (oat hulls) to displace
coal in one of its two solid fuel boilers, which significantly reduces its greenhouse
gas emissions. The university's Main Power Plant cogenerates nearly nine million
kilowatt -hours of electricity from biomass- produced steam, which represents more
than three percent of the main campus's annual electric power consumption.
Beginning in December 2010, The Office of Sustainability formed and engaged
a biomass partnership project. The purpose of this partnership has been to
bring together and consult with a diverse group of experts in agronomy and
agriculture, forestry and forest products, equipment manufacturers, fuel suppliers,
environmental regulations, and policy areas associated with using biomass as fuel.
Members have been drawn from Iowa Department of Natural Resources director's
office as well the department's forestry and geographic information systems
departments, US Fish and Wildlife Service, US Department of Agriculture, Natural
Resources Conservation Service, Amana Forestry, John Deere, River Trading
Company, Iowa State University, Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture, and
The University of Northern Iowa. Efforts to locate and develop sources of renewable
solid fuel are focused within a 50 -mile radius of Iowa City by identifying areas to
grow dedicated energy crops (e.g. miscanthus, prairie and switch grass) and short
rotation woody biomass crops (e.g. poplar, cottonwood, aspen trees), perform timber
stand improvement, use opportunity fuels (e.g. storm damaged trees, emerald ash
borer killed trees), use biomass produced from environmental management on
public lands (reed canary grass harvest), and locate and evaluate suitable industrial
byproducts and coproducts (e.g. clean wood waste, lignin). Defining the fuel -shed
within a 50 -mile radius of Iowa City limits the distance in which biomass and other
fuels will be transported; it also defines where the positive economic impact of local
fuel procurement will occur.
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • UNIVERSITY OF IOWA • 83
3.
Decrease Our The UI will foster a culture oriented to reducing waste, increasing recycling,
facilitating composting of organic waste, and enhancing green purchasing practices
Production of Waste to achieve a goal of a 60 percent waste diversion by 2020.
Sampling of strategies to he pursued over • A comprehensive recycling program will be developed and initiated.
the course of the decade: . The UI will modify its buildings to facilitate recycling.
• A branded marketing effort will be developed and implemented.
• Green purchasing practices, designed to reduce waste, will be implemented.
• Waste minimization practices will be incentivized and facilitated at departmental levels.
• Campus food service and composting operations will be retooled to minimize and capture
food waste.
Single-Stream To increase recycling, the U implemented a single- stream recycling system in
September, 2011. The single - stream system, also known as "sort- free ", allows all
acceptable recyclables to be collected in a single bin instead of being sorted in different
containers. The new system accepts newspaper, office paper, cardboard, lab plastics,
nonredeemable drink containers, plastics, tin, aluminum, and most food containers.
Class, Styrofoam, plastic bags and food are not accepted in the recycling program.
Regular waste audits are conducted across campus. Waste audits are a key tool to
discovering opportunities for reduction, reuse and recycling. The audits provide
students, faculty and staff with the opportunity to examine the actual composition
of their waste stream and review baseline data for planning future reduction efforts.
Changes III Hillcrest and While campus pre - consumer food waste has been collected for composting for
UHHospitals and Clinics several years, in 2012 the UI started a new post - consumer food waste program. A
new food pulper and dish machine were installed in Hillcrest Market Place, located
in Hillcrest Hall. The pulper collects post- consumer food waste from plate scrapings.
Both the pulper and the dish machine recycle water. Roughly 2,800 pounds of
food waste are diverted each week to composting. Water savings exceed 3,000
gallons a day. The use of cleaning chemicals has been reduced significantly. The
Hillcrest Market Place also implemented trayless food service, which has resulted in
approximately $100,000 in savings in institutional food orders.
In 2013, the UI Hospitals and Clinics implemented changes in food service to
reduce waste at the source, capture more post- consumer food waste and eliminate
non - recyclable plastics. A switch was made from plastic utensils and Styrofoam
containers to compostable materials. Post- consumer food waste collection was
initiated in the dining areas. Both food waste and compostable utensils and
containers are now collected and pulped for composting. Changes in food service
include moving to smaller batch -style preparations. Food that was prepared but not
served and that meets the UIHCs strict food handling requirements is donated to
Table to Table.
' • SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
Student-Run Composting Local student composting efforts are managed by the University of Iowa
Environmental Coalition's Green Consulting committee. The group volunteers 10 -12
hours a week, making bi- weekly stops at local establishments that collect food waste
for composting. The students collect the food waste and compost it at the University
Student Garden. The finished compost is used as a soil amendment at the garden.
The produce from the garden is sold to University Housing Residential Dining. The
proceeds from the sale of the produce directly support the Student Garden.
Hydration Stations In 2011, Elkay Filling Stations were installed in the UI Residence Halls to support
reusable bottle use. The stations are automated machines that dispense chilled, filtered
water directly into a reusable bottle. Each machine has a display that tracks the
number of single -use bottles that have been avoided. In Spring 2012, in conjunction
with the Office of Sustainability and the UI Student Government, UI Facilities
Management outfitted the Iowa Memorial Union with one station and retrofitted
the remaining fountains with goose -neck bottle fillers. Elkay Filling Stations are now
being added into new and /or high - traffic buildings. Future waste audits may uncover
the impact of these stations on student behavior through reduced plastic bottle waste.
(Kelsey Zlevor, Sustainability Initiatives Advocate, UI Student Government).
Paper Reduction and Paper is probably the most common purchase for most colleges and universities.
Iowa universities are required to purchase paper with at least 30 percent post-
Electronic Solutions consumer recycled paper content. All office paper ordered at the UI is 30 percent
post consumer or higher content, with the exception of specialty papers ordered
upon request where recycled content may vary. All purchased rough papers (paper
towels, toilet paper) are 100 percent recycled content.
The amount of copy paper purchased at the UI over the past several years has been
declining, due to paper conservation measures and efforts to reduce waste at the
source. Since FY2005, total copy paper purchased has dropped 57 percent. UI has
incorporated electronic solutions in virtually all business areas. These e- solutions
include solicitations for goods and services, e- printing of most admissions - related
items (including the University catalog, now only available online), payroll and
travel items, and other administrative notifications.
About 98 percent of all admissions applications are now received online.
Employees have a paperless option for most notifications, including tax forms.
UI's Workflow System for business transactions and employee self - service products are 100 percent
paperless.
Move -out and Surplus Materials Move -out collections have been held on campus each spring for the past several
years. The event started as a student group project for a sustainability class and
benefits Goodwill, Habitat Restore and the Crisis Center. The drive is organized by
the UI Environmental Coalition, ECO Hawk, UI Housing, Office of Sustainability,
Goodwill of the Heartland, Crisis Center, City of Iowa City and Habitat Restore.
Housewares, furniture, clothing and other items are collected and donated, diverting
several tons of material from landfilling each year.
SIISTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • UNIVERSITY OF IOWA • RS
Carbon Reduce the Carbon The UI will seek ways to reduce the vehicle miles traveled by single occupant vehicles,
employ increasingly efficient fuels and technologies, improve the greenhouse gas
ImpacImpact of Transportation efficiency of vehicles operated by employees and students, and seek net reductions
t and /or offsets in University - related air travel with the goal of achieving, by 2020, a
10% reduction in per capita emissions of fossil fuel- produced C(y from University-
related transportation and travel.
Sampling of Strategies to be pursued over • Carbon- efficient fuels and technologies will he increasingly employed.
the course of the decade: • The UI will implement vehicle management practices for passenger and freight systems to improve
the greenhouse gas efficiency of vehicles.
Demand management programs will he expanded to reduce the vehicle miles traveled by single
occupant vehicles used for commuting or intra- campus transportation.
The UI will investigate a local offset program to address the greenhouse gas impacts of University -
related air travel.
Because of the new addition to its maintenance facility which provides much more
protection from weather, the biodiesel used in diesel fuel for Cambus (37 transit
buses) rose from the 1 -5 percent ratio that has been in use since FY2004, to 20
percent (13-20 formulation) in FY2011. The installation of newer engines that
support the use of B -20 in their warranties, and the recent ability to store the fleet
indoors (lower temperatures can gel higher ratios of biodiesel) allows the use of the
higher ratio. In addition, idling times for buses have been significantly reduced
(down from 45 minutes to ten minutes) due to new air lines that allow for quick
pressurization of pneumatic systems.
The biodiesel ratio used in all other (non - Cambus) UI -owned transportation and
non - transportation diesel engines rose from the 1 -5 percent ratio to a 10 percent
ratio (13-10) in FY2011. The number of alternative - fueled vehicles on the campus
has been increasing. Currently, 52.4 percent of the vehicles managed by Fleet
Services are E -85, hybrid or fully electric vehicles (285 out of 544 vehicles).
The discounted bus pass program supported through U 1 Parking and Transportation
averages 1,600 employee and 2,100 student participants. The passes provide
unlimited rides on Iowa City or Coralville Transit.
' • SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
Van and 481' Pools/Biking The UI van pool program operates over 60 vans supporting close to 700 riders. At 70
percent occupancy levels for daily ridership, the operation of the van pool program
reduces vehicle miles traveled by over nine million miles annually, reducing potential
carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 3,200 metric tons.
Car- and van - pooling are encouraged and supported through Parking and
Transportation. Bicycling on campus is supported by the installation and upgrading
of bicycle parking spaces.
Most UI students (and faculty and staff) live off - campus and biking is an affordable
and easy means of transportation around the campus and Iowa City. University
officials coordinated in the update of the metro bike plan (http: / /www.jccog.org/
documents /bikePlan.pdf) to enhance biking opportunities and safety around town.
To develop a stronger strategy to support bicycling on campus, in 2012 the UI
developed a Bicycling Advisory Committee and applied for Bike Friendly Campus
status. The U 1 received an "Honorable Mention. ` With feedback from the League
of American Cyclists, the Bicycling Advisory Committee will continue to work to
develop biking resources on campus.
Vide0 Conferenclflg The use of videoconferencing is increasing as faculty and staff realize it is an effective
means of communication and a time- and travel- saving tool. Real -time collaboration
involves several kinds of synchronous communication tools such as: instant
messaging, group chat, whiteboard collaboration, application sharing, desktop
sharing, co- browsing, voice -over IP, and video and audio conferencing.
SOSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: UNIVERSITY OF IOWA • 87
'urriculu 11 With the University -wide sustainability commitment, the education programs have
also seen some changes in order to honor the University's goals. The University
developed an Environmental Science major through the College of Liberal Arts
and Sciences in 2004 that grants either a bachelor of arts or bachelor of science in
Environmental Science. The B.S. program involves core classes, and then requires
students to select a track to in biosciences, hydrosciences, geosciences, or chemical
sciences. The B.A. program involves the same core courses, but students instead
take one class from three of the four tracks. In 2004, the program had 89 students
enrolled in the major, and 4 students enrolled in the minor. In spring of 2012,
there were 160 students enrolled in the major, and 43 enrolled in the minor. These
numbers indicate an increased interest through the years, which also spurred the
development of the undergraduate Sustainability Certificate program (Art Bettis,
University of Iowa Environmental Sciences Program Coordinator).
The University has many certificate programs, but the Sustainability Certificate
(Fall 2009) has quickly become one of the more popular certificate programs. The
program is open to all majors, requires a minimum 2.00 grade point average, and
is a 24 credit hour program. It requires three core courses: Inrro to Sustainability,
Contemporary Environmental Issues, and Inrro to Environmental Science, and
four elective courses offered in "breadth" areas and a project course. Frank Yoder,
academic advisor for the certificate program, stated that the certificate program had
35 students enrolled in 2009, and those numbers have roughly doubled each year.
Last spring, 140 students were enrolled, and in the spring of 2012, over 30 students
graduated with the certificate. Yoder and other colleagues anticipate continuing high
enrollment in the coming years (Frank Yoder, Academic Advisor).
Student Increase Student
The UI will provide students with educational opportunities that elevate their
knowledge of and problem - solving skills in environmental, social, and economic
Opportunities to Learn
sustainability. These opportunities will include career - related certificate and /degree
and Practice Principles
programs, internships, and sustainability- related research experiences. Sustainable
practices will be incorporated into student campus activities, living and learning
of Sustainability
centers, food service, and health and wellness. A student sustainability activity
yfund
will be created to support these efforts. To build leadership for a sustainable
world, interdisciplinary internships for students will be increased. To promote the
understanding of sustainabllity principles through the study of natural systems, the
UI will enhance natural history activities and sustainability programming.
'urriculu 11 With the University -wide sustainability commitment, the education programs have
also seen some changes in order to honor the University's goals. The University
developed an Environmental Science major through the College of Liberal Arts
and Sciences in 2004 that grants either a bachelor of arts or bachelor of science in
Environmental Science. The B.S. program involves core classes, and then requires
students to select a track to in biosciences, hydrosciences, geosciences, or chemical
sciences. The B.A. program involves the same core courses, but students instead
take one class from three of the four tracks. In 2004, the program had 89 students
enrolled in the major, and 4 students enrolled in the minor. In spring of 2012,
there were 160 students enrolled in the major, and 43 enrolled in the minor. These
numbers indicate an increased interest through the years, which also spurred the
development of the undergraduate Sustainability Certificate program (Art Bettis,
University of Iowa Environmental Sciences Program Coordinator).
The University has many certificate programs, but the Sustainability Certificate
(Fall 2009) has quickly become one of the more popular certificate programs. The
program is open to all majors, requires a minimum 2.00 grade point average, and
is a 24 credit hour program. It requires three core courses: Inrro to Sustainability,
Contemporary Environmental Issues, and Inrro to Environmental Science, and
four elective courses offered in "breadth" areas and a project course. Frank Yoder,
academic advisor for the certificate program, stated that the certificate program had
35 students enrolled in 2009, and those numbers have roughly doubled each year.
Last spring, 140 students were enrolled, and in the spring of 2012, over 30 students
graduated with the certificate. Yoder and other colleagues anticipate continuing high
enrollment in the coming years (Frank Yoder, Academic Advisor).
A • SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
Student Organizations
The University of Iowa also provides
opportunities to pursue environmental
awareness and sustainability outside of the
classroom, with many student organizations
that either have ties or are solely dedicated
to greening the University.
Engineers for a Sustainable World -Open to all majors, increasing education about and promoting
implementation of more sustainable infrastructure.
University of Iowa Environmental Coalition- Promoting activism and enjoyment of the natural world
and resources.
Eco Hawk - "Easy Change Overall;' pursuing sustainable solutions through a public- health lens,
increasing waste reduction and recycling.
Take Back the Tap- Promoting the safety and necessity of tap water in order to reduce plastic
waste and the purchase of bottled water.
University of Iowa Sierra Student Coalition -The UI chapter of a broad national network, working
towards energy efficiency, renewable energy, and conservation through activism and campaign
organization.
UI Global Health Club - This network of students, faculty, staff, and community members focuses
on issues pertaining to global health.
College of Oentistry Go Green - Graduate and professional students and faculty promoting a
sustainable workplace in the medical realm.
UI Gardeners - Promoting local foods and the art and techniques of gardening.
Simply Food - Education and raising awareness about local foods, as well as choosing organic foods.
Engineers Without Borders -Using principles of infrastructure and design in order to innovate new
ways of achieving basic human needs in less- fortunate areas.
UI Physicians for Social Responsibility- Provides medical perspective on nuclear arms reduction,
safe energy, environment and health, and social justice to benefit humanity and preserve the
world's resources.
University of Iowa Student Government - Oversees a broad spectrum of student issues, has a
sustainability branch that works to increase opportunities and resources for students to practice
sustainability in daily college -life.
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • UNIVERSITY OF IOWA • 99
UI Student Garden Launched four years ago by student volunteers, the UI Student Garden serves as a
resource for students to learn basic gardening skills and environmental processes
such as composting. The UI Student Garden supplies produce to the Iowa
Memorial Union catering services and University Housing Residential Dining.
Additional produce is donated to the Johnson County Crisis Center. The garden
is located on a one -third acre plot on the west side of the UI campus. Harvests
are conducted bi- weekly in peak growing months and once a week during the fall
and winter. During the 2012 growing season, the garden produced 200 heads of
garlic, 350 pounds of zucchini, 20 heads of cabbage, 100 pounds of carrots, 60
pounds of beets, 100 pounds of cucumber, 30 heads of broccoli, and 150 pounds
of potatoes. Depending on the season, the garden also produces tomatoes, radishes,
watermelon, and salad greens.
' • SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
6.
Support and Grow
Interdisciplinary
Research in
Sustainability- focused
and Related Areas
The UI will pursue international prominence in water sustainability education and
research by supporting interdisciplinary research, teaching, and service on issues of
water availability, water quality, the economic and health impacts of floods, flood
control, water conservation, rural economic development, and the linkages between
emerging water resource issues and global climate change. The UI will work to
increase awareness in Iowa about the shared value of Iowa's water resources and the
impacts of land use in river watersheds. The water resource principles developed
through sustainability research programs will be adapted where applicable to the UI
campus and its operations.
Research conducted by both staff and students allows the entire campus community
to get involved with building sustainability. The Center for Global and Regional Envi-
ronmental Research ( CGRER) is a state - funded institute devoted to studying and bet-
tering our environment. Areas of focus include regional effects on natural ecosystems,
environments, and resources, and effects on human health, culture, and social systems.
To accomplish its missions, CGRER awards seed grants, fosters interdisciplinary
courses, provides state -of -the -art research facilities, and holds seminars and symposia.
Through these activities, CGRER assists Iowa's agencies, industries, politicians, and
citizens as they prepare for accelerated environmental change.
IIHRHydroscience & Engineering is a unit of the University of Iowa's College of
Engineering whose students, faculty members, and research engineers work together
to understand and manage one of the world's greatest resources water. Students
from around the world benefit from IIHR's comprehensive multidisciplinary
approach, which includes basic fluid mechanics, laboratory experimentation, and
computational approaches
To better address the problems and challenges faced by small towns in Iowa and
the Midwest, the School of Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Iowa
launched the Iowa Initiative for Sustainable Communities (IISC) in 2009. IISC's
purpose is to enhance the capacity of towns, cities, and counties in Iowa, as well
as elsewhere in the Midwest, to better become sustainable communities. More
specifically, sustainability entails efforts to protect and preserve the environment,
while both encouraging economic prosperity and the equitable distribution of
economic and social opportunity.
The UI College of Engineering has a strong emphasis in wind energy research
and collaboration. The University of Iowa College of Engineering and Iowa Lakes
Community College of Estherville, Iowa, have an agreement that allows some Iowa
Lakes students to transfer to either the UI Department of Electrical and Computer
Engineering or the UI Department of Mechanical Engineering. The transfer program
is designed specifically for students enrolled in the Iowa Lakes Wind Energy and
Turbine Technology Associate in Applied Science program. The agreement was made
possible in large part by Iowa Lakes' nationally recognized wind technology program,
the UI's leadership role in wind technology in the state of Iowa, and the dramatic
increase of wind power production and generation facilities in Iowa by private industry.
The UI College of Engineering now offers a certificate in wind energy.
SOSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • SOCIAL: UNIVERSITY OF IOWA • 81
Ram Gardens and Bioswales/
The use of alternative storm water management methods on the campus is
Alternative Storm Water
increasing. Rain gardens are structures designed to accept precipitation run -off
that combines salt with a byproduct from sugar beet processing. The sugar additive
from impervious surfaces, such as roofs and paved surfaces. Not only do these
Management
gardens help increase the beauty of the physical environment, they have a practical
product has a tacky texture so it does not need to be mixed with sand. Some UI
use as well. Rain gardens help filter runoff and recharge groundwater, thus
custodial staff report a decrease in the amount of sand tracked into buildings and
improving water quality. The rain water or snow melt is redirected to a vegetated
reduced damage to tiles and carpets.
area and allowed to seep into the ground, rather than running off, carrying
pollutants and causing erosion. The UI Chapter of Engineers for a Sustainable
World has been instrumental in the installation of several rain gardens on campus
in the past several years. The students have worked with the Johnson County
Soil and Water Conservation office and the urban conservationist to design the
gardens. In coordination with UI Facilities Management, the students installed
gardens at the Kuhl House (home of University of Iowa Press), Shambaugh House
and the Dey House (home of the Iowa Writer's Workshop).
Alternative storm water management systems are being included in new building
construction on campus; a prime example is the use of rain garden principles in the
design of the landscape that surrounds the new College of Public Health building,
designated LEED Platinum. The new building features a sustainable site design that
includes rains gardens, a natural tall-grass prairie, the use of no -mow lawns and
other native landscaping. The new State Hygienic Laboratory hosts a natural prairie
landscape, as well. The renovation of Stuit Hall included the installation (in 2010)
of a new rain garden on the east side of the building. (Rain gardens at U 1 — Dey and
Shambaugh Houses, Sustainability At Iowa).
Tree Campus USA The University of Iowa was proud to become the first Tree Campus USA designated
in Iowa in 2009 and has maintained its designation since. UI Facilities Management
staff organize spring tree plantings and other activities across campus which give
students an opportunity to get involved.
Reduction In Water Use The treatment and use of water at the University of Iowa has reduced significantly in
the past several years — by 11 percent from 2005. This is due to the elimination of
single pass cooling in the main Power Plant, water recycling, and the installation of
water- saving devices across campus.
Eco-friendly Deicer Facilities Management staff use a product called Pro -Melt, an eco- friendly deicer
that combines salt with a byproduct from sugar beet processing. The sugar additive
remains active as a deicer at a lower temperature so overall, less deicer is used. The
product has a tacky texture so it does not need to be mixed with sand. Some UI
custodial staff report a decrease in the amount of sand tracked into buildings and
reduced damage to tiles and carpets.
Reduction In Water Use The treatment and use of water at the University of Iowa has reduced significantly in
the past several years — by 11 percent from 2005. This is due to the elimination of
single pass cooling in the main Power Plant, water recycling, and the installation of
water- saving devices across campus.
A • SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
4
7.
Develop Partnerships to
Advance Collaborative
Initiatives, both Academic
and Operational
The UI will continue to create and nurture partnerships with communities,
businesses, government agencies and other educational institutions with the goal
of understanding and meeting the ever- increasing need for environmental, social,
and economic sustainability. In particular, the UI will work individually and
collaboratively with Iowa businesses and community colleges to meet the demands
of supporting the workforce and economic development needs of green industries in
Iowa (2020 Vision The University of Iowa's Sustainability Targets).
UniveibILY AIIU UILY UI Iowa City Initiatives
Alcohol Harm Reduction The city council of Iowa City acknowledged that underage drinking has a significant
health impact on the health, safety and welfare of citizens. In 2010, they city council
adopted an ordinance that prohibits those under the drinking age of 21 to enter
establishments that serve alcohol after 10 p.m.
The UI Alcohol Harm Reduction effort, spear - headed by the UI Division of
Student Life, is aimed at taking key actions that address high -risk drinking among
college students. The Alcohol Harm Reduction Plan involves education, bystander
interference, communication, and policy review.
Bongo BONGO is a cross- promotional effort of the City of Iowa City, the City of
Coralville and UI Parking and Transportation to increase public transit ridership.
Bongo is a CPS- based, real -time passenger information system that allows riders to
find current bus locations as well as predictions for upcoming bus arrivals for Iowa
City, Coralville and the University of Iowa. The application is available on smart
Phones for individual use. Public kiosks are also placed in locations across campus,
such as the Iowa Memorial Union, to assist passengers.
SBSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT • UNIVERSITY OF IOWA • 53
UnlverClty Housing A collaboration between the City of Iowa City and the University of Iowa,
UniverCity Housing strives to achieve a healthy balance between rental and owner
property throughout the city, as well as support safe and affordable housing that is
within walking distance of the UI or downtown. This initiative serves to encourage
investment in local neighborhoods, especially for business professionals working for
the University. Iowa City recently secured a $1.25 million I -JOB grant to acquire
and rehab 26 homes in designated areas to promote these concepts. The program is
now in Phase 2.
Zlpear The UI and the City of Iowa City jointly launched the Zipcar car sharing program
in August 2012. This service supports a walking and biking lifestyle by offering
affordable, accessible car rental by the hour. Ten high MPG vehicles are located on
campus and in the downtown area.
Summary In 2012, the University of Iowa enrolled in STARS, the Sustainability Tracking,
Assessment and Rating System. STARS is a transparent, self- reporting framework
for colleges and universities to measure their sustainability performance. STARS
was developed by AASHE with broad participation from the higher education
community. By requiring the public documentation of progress toward '
sustainability, STARS enables institutions to share best practices with other
schools in the system (STARS, Association for the Advancement of Sustainability
in Higher Education).
As both the City of Iowa City and the University of Iowa track and assess their
sustainability measures, the entire community can work together to implement
policies and practices that promote a more sustainable society.
94 • RESOURCES
RESOURCES AND CONTRIBUTORS
City of Iowa City City of Iowa City icgov.org
City Council, City of Iowa City www.icgov.org / ?id =1115
City Manager's Office, City of Iowa City www.icgov.org / ?id =1504
mm ivtarkus, City idanayer
Geoff Fruin, Assistant to the City Manager
Adam Bentley, Administrative Assistant
Public Works Department www.icgov.org / ?id =1810
Rick Fosse, Director
Dave Elias, Superintendent, Landfill and Wastewater Division
Brenda Nations, Environmental Coordinator, Landfill Division
Kevin Cutsforth, Sustalnablllty Assessment Assistant, Landfill Division
Jennifer Jordan, Recycling Coordinator, Landfill Division
Carol Sweeting, Public Information /Volunteer Coordinator
Tom Hansen, Superintendent, Equipment Division
Roger Overton, Assistant Superintendent, Wastewater Division
Eric Tripp, Energy Efficiency Intern, Landfill Division
Brooke Butler, Scale House Operator, Landfill Division
Barb Meredith, Senior Engineering Technician
Kay Irelam Graphic Technician, Engineering Division
Brian Boelk Senior Civil Engineer, Engineering Division
Planning and Community
Development Department
Karen Howard, Planner
www.icgov.org/?id=l 340
Doug Ongie, Associate Planner, Community Development Division
Wendy Ford, Economic Development Coordinator
Sarah Walz, Planner, Urban Planning Division
Tracy Hightshoe, Planner
Cheryl Peterson, Historic Preservationist
Marcia Bollinger, Iowa City Neighborhood Services Coordinator, Neighborhood Services
Kristopher Ackerson, MPOJC Assistant Transportation Planner
Parks & Recreation Department www.icgov.org / ?id =1082
Mike Moran, Director
Tammy Neumann, Administrative Secretary
Terry Robinson, Superintendent, Parks & Forestry Division
RESOURCES • 95
Police Department www.icgov.org / ?id =1318
Capt. Jim Steffen, Administrative Services Division Commander, Administrative Services Division
Housing & Inspection Services Department www.icgov.org / ?id =1143
Tim Hennes, Senior Building Inspector, Building Inspection Division
Stan Laverman, Senior Housing Inspector, Housing Inspection Division
Senior Center www.icgov.org / ?id =1215
Linda Kopping, Coordinator
Kristin Kmmray, Operations Assistant
Transportation Services www.icgov.org / ?id =1515
Chris O'Brien, Director of Transportation Services, Transit Division
Iowa City Public Library
Susan Craig, Director, Iowa City Public Library
Elyse Miller, Administrative Services, Iowa City Public Library
Finance Department
Kevin O'Malley, Director
www.icpl.org/
www.icgov.org/?id=1255
University of Iowa Liz Christiansen, Director, University of Iowa Office of Sustalnablll y sustainability.uiowa.edul
Kelsey Zlevor, Sustainability Intern, City of Iowa City; Sustainability Initiatives Advocate,
University of Iowa Student Government uisg.uiowa.edul
Art Bettis, Associate Professor, Geoscience Department
Ferman Milster, Principal Engineer, Renewables
sustai na hi lity.uiowa.edul
Frank Yoder, Academic Advisor Coordinator /Manager, Academic Advising Center
Craig Just Assistant Professor, Department of Civil and Envimnmental Engineering '
George McCrary, Communications Specialist, University of Iowa Office of Sustalnablllty
Robert Lane, Administrative Services Coordinator, Facilities Management www.facilities.uiowa.edul
• • RESOURCES
General U.S. Census Bureau 2010.census.gov /2010census /, http:llfactfinder2.
census.govlfaceslnavljsf /pages /index.xhtml, http: llquicklacts .census.govlgfdlindex.html
Iowa Department of Education educateiowa.govl
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics www.bls.gov/
Iowa City Area Development Group www .iowacityareadevelopment.coml
Iowa Department of Administrative Services das.iowa.govl
U.S. Department of Commerce www.commerce.gov/
Walk Score www.walkscore.coml
U.S. Green Building Council
www.usgbc.org /Default.aspx
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
www.epa.gov/
Johnson County, Iowa
www.johnson- county.com/
Iowa Department of Natural Resources
www.iowadnr.gov/
Center for Neighborhood Technology
www.cnt.orgl
Mitch Finn, Deputy Executive Director, Hawkeye Area
Community Action Program, Inc, www.hacap.orgl
American Community Survey
www.census.gov /acs /wwwl
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
www.cdc.gov/
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
www.hhs.gov/
U.S. Department of Agriculture
www.usda.gov /wps /portal /usda /usdahome
Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County www.mpojc.org/
Sara Hayes, Senior Director, Information Center, Iowa
Hospital Association
www.ihaonline.org/imisl5/ihaonline
Iowa Department of Public Health
www.idph.state.ia.usl
Arts Index, Americans for the Arts
www.artsindexusa.org/
Volunteering in America
www.volunteeringinamerica.gov/
RESOURCES • 97
Johnson County Auditor www.johnson - county.com /auditor /index.html
Scott Koepke, Education Outreach Coordinator, New Pioneer Food Co- op /Soilmates www.newpi.coopl
Iowa Cultural Corridor Alliance
Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce
Johnson County Community Health Needs Assessment
www.cuIturalcorridor.org/
www.iowacityarea.com/
www.johnson - county .com /dept_chna_agendas.aspx
Sustainability Progress Report 2012, City of Dubuque bloximages .newyorkl.vip.townnews.coml
sustainablecitynetwork.com /content /tncros/ assetsl v3l editorial /g /bd /gbd3caBB- ba3b -ll el -88c5-
001 a4bcf687814feOc591 a 1 ace.pdf.pdf
The 2010 Community Needs Assessment Indicators Report, United Way of Johnson County
www. unitedwayic .org /sitestunitedwayic .oneeach.org /filestrotor/ 2010 %201ndicatorsReport_Patti.pdf
Christine Scheetz, President & CEO, United Way of Johnson County
www.unitedwayjc.org/
National College Health Assessment, University of Iowa
studenthealth. uiowa. edu / sites / default / files / uploads /N CHA %2020120 /02OReport0 /0202.pdf
Community Profile, City of Iowa City Economic Development Division
-gov.org/ site /CMSv2 /file /planning /econDev /2007Comm on ityProfile.pdf#pagemode =bookm arks
Sustainability Assessment, Park Forest www. villageofparkforest .com /clientuploads /Economic _Development/
Plan ningl SustaiORbilityAssessPublicl20111 .pdf ?PH PSESSI D=93a19575caf8661 b8a91 b48c9f4ea9c7
Brian Gibbs, Key Account Manager, MidAmerican Energy
Jessica Johnson Executive Director, Iowa Cultural Corridor Alliance
Ronald Bunting, Office of Transportation, Iowa Department of Transportation
Dave Mohr, Manager of Business Development, Eastern Iowa Light and Power Company
Del Holland, Director, Iowa City Bike Library
Stephen Morley, Superintendent of Schools, Iowa City Community School District
Kate Moreland, Community Relations Coordinator, Iowa City Community School District
Jason Grimm, Food System Planner, Iowa Valley Resource and Conservation Development
Mary Skopec, Research Geologist, Iowa Department of Natural Resources,
Iowa Geological and Water Survey
www.midamericanenergy.com/
www.culturalcorridor.org/
www.iowadot.gov/
www.easterniowa.com/
www.bikelibrary.com
www.edline.net/pages/ICCSD
www.edline.net /pages /ICCSD
'
www.ivrcd.org
www.easterniowa.com
n -• RESOURCES: SUSTAINABILITY INDICATORS
RESOURCES: SUSTAINABILITY INDICATORS
ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: ECONOMIC PAGE 11
Unemployment Rate
•
Percent change in unemployment rate
Sector Diversity
•
Diversity of the economy
Poverty
•
Average household income (includes hidden economy of student population)
Gender Wage Gap
•
Female median wage as a percentage of male median wage
Band Rating
•
Band rating from Moody's Investor Service
Gress Domestic Product
•
Annual GDP growth rate
Local Purchases
U
Programs supporting local purchases and the local economy
ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DESIGN: COMMUNITY DESIGN AND TRANSPORTATION PAGE 19
Walkable Neighborhoods
•
Iowa City's walk scare rating
Urban Density
U
Ratio of residents per acre
Access to Open Space
•
Percent of households within 112 mile of open space (including parks, schaalyards, and natural areas)
Public Transit Ridership
•
Number of public transit passenger trips per 1,000 residents
Vehicle Miles Traveled
•
Average vehicle miles traveled per capita
Sate Travel Network
•
Total number of traffic collisions, Injuries and deaths
ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: ENERGY PAGE 29
Building Standards
U
Number of commercial, industrial, and municipal buildings that meet LEED Standards
Renewable Energy Use
O
Amount of municipal energy use derived from renewable sources
Renewable Energy Use by Local Utility
•
Percentage of renewable energy an local utility grid
Community -wide GO2o Emissions
O
Annual carbon dioxide equivalent emissions for the community in metric tans
COze Emissions Per Capita
O
Annual carbon dioxide equivalent emissions per capita in metric tans
Municipal COze Emissions
0
Annual carbon dioxide equivalent emissions for municipal operations
RESOURCES: SBSTAINABILITY INBICATBRS • 99
ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: WATER PAGE 37
Total Water Consumption
•
Total water consumption per capita, measured in gallons
Drinking Water Quality
•
Annual percent of drinking water quality testing meeting EPA standards
Gallons of Treated Municipal Water
U
Annual gallons of municipal water treated annually
Wastewater Quality
•
Annual percent of wastewater HOD, TSS, and Ammonia nitrogen meeting NPDES standards
Biosolids
•
Tans of Class A biasolids produced and land applied
Sanitary Sewer Overflows
•
Annual number of sanitary sewer overflows
Green Roots
O
Number and area of green roofs
Urban Stream Bank Conditions
U
Percent of assessed urban stream miles with stable stream bank rating
Iowa River Water Quality
O
A section of the Iowa River within Iowa City is an DNR's Impaired Waters List
Local Stream Water
•
Average levels of nitrates and phosphorus under Level of Concern using IOWATER sampling methods
Floodplain Management
•
Recognized by F.E.M.A. as Class 8 CRS Community
ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: WASTE REDUCTION PAGE 44
Per capita Solid Waste
O
Per capita tons of solid waste sent to landfill
Household Hazardous Waste
•
Pounds of HHW received annually; number of customers annually
Recycling
O
Tannage of recycled material
Multifamily Unit Recycling
O
Percent of multifamily units with on -site recycling
Composting
•
Productive use of compost
ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: NATURAL ECOSYSTEM PAGE 49
Forest Ecosystem
•
Total acres of municipal awned forest
Prairie Ecosystem
•
Total acres of municipal awned prairie
Wetland Ecosystem
•
Total acres of municipal awned wetland acres including City wetland mitigation protects '
Tree Canopy /Siraet Tree Diversity
U
Percent coverage of trees within city limits; percentage of all street tree species
• = within or exceeding acceptable level
O = below desired level
U = unclassified
Ain 0 • RESOURCES: SUSTAINABILITY INDICATORS
SOCIAL: HOUSING PAGE 55
Affordable Housing
U
Percent of population living in affordable housing
Age of Housing Stack
U
Percentage of houses built in each decade
Energy Assistance
U
Percentage of households applying for energy assistance in the farm of LIHEAP
Tenure by Household Income
U
Number of owner- and renter - occupied housing units within various income ranges
Homelessness
U
Johnson County percentage of homeless population
Lead Exposure Testing /Poisoning Rate
•
Percent of children under 6 tested for lead poisoning; incidence of lead poisoning among tested children
SOCIAL: COMMUNITY WELLNESS PAGE 63
Healthy Weight
•
Percentage of adults with a BMI below 30.
Healthy Riots
O
Percentage of residents who eat who eat adequate fruits and vegetables daily
Farmers Market Attendance
•
Annual estimated attendees at the City's Farmers Market
Community Gardens
U
Square footage of community and school gardens
EPA Air Quality Index
•
Number of days within acceptable limits and number of days in unacceptable limits, annually
Rate of Asthma Incidence
•
Number of asthma - related inpatient discharges from Iowa City hospitals
Particulate Matter
O
Average annual PM2.5 concentration
Radon
O
Percentage of radon- tested household above 4 pci /L
SOCIAL: ARTS AND CULTURE PAGE 71
Local Arts
•
Primary Indicators of Local Arts Index
Library Card Holders
•
Percent of residents with Iowa City Public Library cards
Volunteerism
•
Percent of residents who volunteer
Historic Preservation
•
Number of buildings an the National Register of Historic Places
Voter Participation
O
Number of residents registered to vote; number of voters in local elections
Senior Center Membership /Programs
•
Total number of members and programs offered at the Iowa City /Johnson County Senior Center
• = within or exceeding acceptable level
O = below desired level
U = unclassified
RESOURCES: CITY AWARDS • 101
RESOURCES: CITY ACCOLADES
• #3 (mid -sized metros) in volunteer hours per resident, Va/unteer and Iglic Life inAmeriq 2012
• One of America's Best Small Cities, Maneyftadne, 2012
• 4th Best U.S. College Destination, American Institute for Economic Research, 2012
• City High and West High School named Best High Schools, Newsweek, 2012
• #1 in the state for "America's Favorite Farmers Markets,' American Farmland Trust,
2010 -2012
• #2 "Best Cities for Successful Aging" (small metros), Milken Institute, 2012
• Iowa City's Thornberry Dog Park named One of the Ten Best in America, Dogster Online
Magazine, 2012
• Most Walkable City in Iowa, Walk Score, 2011
• #5 on the Top Ten Cities for Book Lovers list from Livability.com, 2011
• #8 on Best Performing Small Cities Index "Where America's Jobs are Created and
Sustained;' Milken Institute, 2011
• #13 on the Best Cities for Business and Careers (small cities) list, Forbes, 2011
• #10 Best City for Singles, Kiplinger, 2010
• One of the Top Towns for Jobs, MSN CareerBuilder, 2010
• Healthiest Town in the United States, Men'slouma/, 2010
• #3 on the list of Gayest Cities in America, lfxAdwmA 2010
• Johnson County is among the top 25 counties in CNN/ ManeyMagazine's Where the Jobs
Are list, with over 22% growth in the past decade, 2010
• #10 on Best Cities for College Grads list, Richard Florida, 2010
• UNESCO City of Literature, 2008
• 10th Smartest City in the Nation, Forbes 2008
• #8 Up and Coming Tech Cities, Forbes 2008
'
• 2nd Best Small Metro Area for Business /Careers, Forbes, 2008
• The Iowa City Senior Center was the first in Iowa to become nationally accredited through the
National Institute of Senior Centers, a unit of the National Council On Aging
i P i
-4
.'Rr21 6
�`aI� Y0I m�
CITY OF IOWA CITY
Researched and written by the City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org /sustainability
THE UNtVErsnY
OF IOWA
University of Iowa information provided by the
University of Iowa Office of Sustainability
Design: Benson & Hepker Design, Iowa City
FSC logo here
Printing: Tru Art, Iowa City
�1RECOVERYGOV
TRACK THF,\40NFV
I
r-�
Report funded by: ARRA- Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant
I r
IP4
CITY OF IOWA CITY
MEMORANDUM
Date: May 30, 2013
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Marian K. Karr, City Clerk
Re: Council Appointee Evaluations
Council requested that staff evaluations (City Attorney, City Manager, and City Clerk) be
scheduled as close to July 1St as possible.
In reviewing Council summer schedules, and contacting Members, it was suggested that we
schedule an off Tuesday for the special formal /executive session. Possible dates available are:
July 9
July 16
July 30
It is hoped that a date could be decided upon at your work session on June 4.
U:evaluationdate.doc
IP5
I.T
CITY OF IOWA CITY
PENDING CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION TOPICS
May 29, 2013
June 18, 2013
1. Review of staff recommendations related to the implementation of the ad -hoc
Diversity Committee final report
Pending Topics to be Scheduled
1. Discuss concept of a community business attraction and anti - piracy compact
2. Continue the discussion on the sale or dispersion of public housing units
3. Discuss potential procedures and/or policies related to requests for habitable private
spaces constructed over public right -of -way
4. Presentation on the Gateway project design options
5. Discuss large assembly event permit fees
6. Annual evaluation of Council appointees (City Manager, City Attorney, City Clerk)
7. Review of the Iowa City Succession Plan document
8. Discussion on Gilbert/Highland /Kirkwood neighborhood concerns
IP6
CITY OF IOWA CITY
MEMORANDUM
Date: May 29, 2013
To: Tom Markus, City Manager
From: Geoff Fruin, Assistant to the City Manager
Rick Fosse, Director of Public Works
Dennis Bockenstedt, Director of Finance
Re: Expiration of Iowa City's Local Option Sales Tax (LOST)
History:
In early 2009, the State Legislature authorized flood- impacted cities and unincorporated areas that did not
have an existing local option sales tax (LOST) to adopt one on an expedited schedule. Iowa City, as a city
with more than 50% of the population in Johnson County, authorized a special election for Johnson
County communities to adopt a 1% LOST through a resolution on February 24, 2009. The ensuing
special election was held May 5, 2009.
Prior to the May 5, 2009 special election, Iowa City twice failed to adopt a LOST. The first attempt was in
1987 and the second was in 1999. In 2009, Iowa City voters approved a 1% LOST by a margin of seven
votes (3641 to 3634). Additionally, voters in eight other Johnson County cities also adopted a 1% LOST.
Those cities include Lone Tree, Oxford, Solon, University Heights, Hills, Swisher, Tiffin and Shueyville.
The LOST for all of these communities, including Iowa City, became effective July 1, 2009 and will expire
on June 30, 2013.
The specific ballot language pertaining to the use of Iowa City's LOST revenue was as follows:
"Revenue from the sales and service tax shall be allocated as follows:
0% for property tax relief
The specific purpose for which the revenue shall otherwise be expended is:
100% for remediation, repair and protection of flood impacted public infrastructure, and
local matching funds for dollars received from any federal or state programs to assist with
flood remediation, repair and protection of flood impacted public infrastructure. "
Attached to this memo is a public education piece produced by Iowa City explaining the special election
process and the intended uses of the LOST revenue. At that time, the City mentioned two projects
specifically; the elevation of Dubuque Street and the reconstruction of the Park Road Bridge (Gateway
Project) and the relocation of the North Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Analysis:
At the time of the LOST special election, estimating future revenue was difficult due to the revenue
sharing formula that is defined in the state statute. The amount of funding was dependent on which cities
approved the LOST. It was estimated at the time of the special election that Iowa City would receive
approximately $9 million per year ($36 million total) if all cities in Johnson County approved the LOST.
Some communities did not approve the LOST and thus it was not expected that Iowa City would reach
the projected $36 million estimate. Current estimates from the Finance Department indicate that the
LOST will have generated approximately $34.2 million by the time the last of the revenue is received from
the State.
May 29, 2013
Page 2
In 2009, City staff estimated that over $.21 of every dollar would be paid by non - residents. Unfortunately,
there is no mechanism readily available that can verify the actual receipts from non - residents. If staff's
estimate at the time was accurate, then over $7.1 million of revenue would have been captured from non-
residents over the life of the LOST.
Having the LOST also enabled the City to pursue additional state and federal grants. To date, the City
has leveraged over $50 million in state and federal grants that are directly tied to the projects being
funded by the LOST.
As was communicated prior to the special election, the City has focused its LOST revenue on two specific
projects. Synopses of these two projects are provided below:
North Wastewater Plant Relocation
The North Wastewater Plant was inundated by the floods of 2008, which significantly limited operations
and necessitated significant emergency actions. The City determined that in order to reliably provide
critical wastewater service to the community, the North Wastewater Plant should be decommissioned and
the South Wastewater Plant should be expanded to provide consolidated services outside of the Iowa
River floodplain. The new plant will position the City to meet increasingly stringent state and federal
regulations related to the treatment of wastewater. Finally, the decommissioning of the North Wastewater
Plant will help mitigate future floods, allow for the creation of a new riverfront park, and help spur private
investment in the Riverfront Crossings District.
At the time of LOST special election, the cost for this project was estimated at $63 million. The City
Council awarded the construction contract in 2011 and the project is underway with an estimated
completion in 2014. The cost of the South Wastewater Plant expansion project is estimated to be $55
million, which does not include the demolition of the North Wastewater Plant. The funding sources for the
South Wastewater Plant project include:
EDA Grant $22.0 million
CDBG $13.0 million
I -Jobs $ 5.5 million
LOST $ 8.6 million
Utility Fund Revenue $ 5.9 million
Total $55.0 million
Staff is currently analyzing funding mechanisms for the demolition of the North Wastewater Plant, which is
estimated to cost $6 million. That project could commence in 2014 after the expansion at the South
Wastewater Plant is completed. When the North Wastewater Plant is removed and the Fire Training
Facility is relocated, the City will be able to begin work on the Riverfront Park project.
Gateway Project
During the 2008 flood, Dubuque Street was submerged for approximately one month; in 1993 it was
submerged for nearly two months. Occasionally, local heavy rains will also force temporary closures of
this important arterial street. Because of its low profile, the Park Road Bridge contributes to increased
water levels upstream during flood situations, including 14 inches of backwater that was observed during
the 2008 flood.
As currently envisioned, the proposed project will elevate Dubuque Street from Foster Road to just south
of Park Road. The project includes the replacement of the Park Road Bridge, repaving of roadways and
multiple utility replacement and expansion projects. City staff is currently concluding the required federal
environmental analyses and expects to present the City Council with various options on project scope
and design in the near future.
The 2009 cost estimate for the project was $32 million. More detailed engineering work and inflation since
that time has led staff to increase that cost estimate to $40. This estimate will be subject to change based
May 29, 2013
Page 3
on the project scope that the City Council determines later this year. The current revenue sources for the
project include:
EDA Grant $ 3.0 million
THUD Grant $ 1.5 million
STP Funds $ 6.0 million
LOST $25.6 million
G.O. Bonds $ 3.9 million
Total $40.0 million
The LOST funds collected over the last four years will have a defining impact on Iowa City for generations
to come. The relocation of the North Wastewater Plant will help create a defining public amenity with a
new riverfront park, mitigate future floods through the removal of structures from the floodplain, create
urban redevelopment opportunities and provide state -of- the -art wastewater services and increased
capacities to accommodate growth. Although the scope of the Gateway project is yet to be determined,
the improvements will rebuild aged and damaged infrastructure, help mitigate future floods and provide a
safer, more welcoming entrance into our community.
It is fairly common that when large -scale public infrastructure projects are needed that communities often
have to increase property taxes or utility rates to accommodate funding needs. Because of the LOST
revenue, Iowa City did not have to increase property taxes to meet the funding needs of the projects. In
fact, when the LOST was introduced, Iowa City's property tax rate was $17.85 per $1,000 of assessed
valuation. When it expires, Iowa City's property tax rate will have dropped approximately 6% to $16.81
per $1,000 of assessed valuation. As the 1% sales tax expires, Iowa City residents will also benefit from
the lowest municipal tax rate since FY 2003. This combined with the amount of federal and state funding
leveraged into our community, illustrates the profound financial benefits that the LOST will have had on
Iowa City.
Next Steps:
Staff is currently developing a communication strategy to inform Iowa City businesses of the LOST
expiration. We will be working cooperatively with the State Department of Revenue, as well as through
local partners including the Chamber of Commerce, ICAD, ICDD and the Convention and Visitors Bureau.
This effort is expected to be carried out throughout the month of June.
As was previously communicated to the City Council during the FY14 budget discussions, staff will
continue to evaluate whether another LOST should be given consideration by the City Council. If a
recommendation is carried forward, it will likely be included with the FY15 budget presentation. At that
time, staff will have a better understanding on the fiscal impact of the statewide property tax reform and
the impact those changes will have on service levels and our ability to provide for the infrastructure needs
of the community.
I � 1 Citizen's Guide to the Iowa City
=�- +�� Sales Tax Referendum
61 Z"74C
Special Election
CITY OF IOWA CITY May 5, 2009
The voters of Iowa City and throughout Johnson County will vote May 5 on a one cent local option sales tax.
This tax would be collected for four years, beginning July 1, 2009. This brochure will provide information on
the election process and what projects will be funded if the sales tax is approved in Iowa City.
How will the election work?
Each community in Johnson County will vote separately
on whether the sales tax will be collected in their
community. The tax is passed by a simple majority
(over 50 %) of the voters. The ballot language for
each community states how its share of the sales tax
proceeds will be used. Only communities that pass the
tax will share in the proceeds.
How will the sales tax revenue be distributed?
The sales tax revenues from all communities that vote
"yes" are pooled, and that amount is shared only by
those communities that vote "yes ". By state law the
funds are distributed according to a formula that is
based on population (75 %) and property tax dollars
levied (25 %). The funds are not distributed according
to where they are taken in, but on the basis of this state
formula.
Those communities that reject the sales tax are not only
rejecting potential revenue collected from their own
community but also a share of revenue collected from
other Johnson County communities that vote "yes ".
Example: if Coralville voters approve the tax and Iowa
City voters reject it, Iowa City will not share in any of
sales tax collected in Coralville.
How much revenue will be collected?
It is estimated that if all jurisdictions in the county pass
the tax, approximately $17 million in sales tax will be
collected in the county each year. Iowa City's share will
be approximately $9 million per year or $36 million over
four years.
Who will pay the tax?
Anyone who shops in a community that approves the
sales tax will contribute, Over 21 cents of every dollar
of sales tax collected will be paid by non - residents and
visitors.
What goods are not taxable?
Sales taxes are not collected on groceries, prescription
drugs, gasoline and vehicle. purchases.
What other major cities in Iowa do not have a local
option sales tax?
Currently Iowa City and Des Moines do not collect a
local sales tax. Davenport, Sioux City, Waterloo, Council
Bluffs, Dubuque and Ames all collect sales tax revenue.
The voters of Cedar Rapids recently approved a sales
tax for their flood recovery.
How will the tax revenue be spent?
The flood of 2008 revealed major vulnerabilities in
some of the city's vital public roads, bridges and
other public facilities. Sales tax proceeds will be used
for improvements that will help the city maintain vital
transportation, emergency, and public health services
in both routine and emergency situations.
The ballot language for Iowa City states:
0% of the revenues generated by this tax will be used
for property tax relief and the remaining for the following
specific purposes: 100% for remediation, repair and
protection of flood impacted public infrastructure
and local matching funds for dollars received from
any federal or state programs to assist with flood
remediation, repair and protection of flood impacted
public infrastructure.
See reverse side for information on the projects proposed for funding.
How the tax would be used:
Based on current funding projections, the City Council has indicated that the following two projects will be priorities
for use of the sales tax. These are very costly projects. Sales tax revenue alone will not pay for these projects and
they are not eligible for the current federal "stimulus" funding. Sales tax proceeds will be used to provide local match
for available state and federal funding and to reduce our reliance on property tax and increased user fees otherwise
needed to fund such projects.
Flooded Dubuque Street - June 2008
Elevation of Dubuque Street & Reconstruction of the
Park Road Bridge
Estimated cost: $32 million
Background: Dubuque Street serves as our primary link
to 1 -80 and access to major employment centers including
the UI campus, hospitals, and downtown. It is also our
lowest arterial street. During the 2008 flood Dubuque
Street was submerged for an entire month; in 1993 it was
submerged for nearly two months and it floods several
times each year from locally heavy rains. The Park Road
Bridge was constructed in the early 1960's and is in need
of structural repairs and traffic capacity improvements.
During the 2008 flood the bridge was observed to produce
increased water levels upstream by as much as 14
inches.
The proposed project will elevate Dubuque Street from
Foster Road to just south of Park Road. It will also replace
the Park Road Bridge with a structure that is higher and
longer so that it will remain open and reduce the level of
upstream flooding.
Benefits of project:
• Keeps major entrance /exit to the city open during
future flood events, maintaining access to employment
centers, health and emergency services, and
residential areas.
• The improved hydraulics of the new bridge will reduce
flood levels in neighborhoods upstream from Park
Road.
The project will replace a bridge that is in need of
costly structural repairs.
• The new bridge will reduce the likelihood of the city
being split by the closure of all bridges during future
floods. if the 2008 flood had reached 4 inches higher,
all river bridges would have been closed.
Inundated North Wastewater Treatment Plant - June 2008
Relocation of the North Wastewater Treatment Plant
Estimated cost: $63 million
Background: The North Wastewater Plant is located
directly adjacent to the Iowa River and was inundated
during the 2008 flood. Operations during the flood were
severely limited and required significant emergency .
operations.
This project will move all wastewater treatment operations
to the South Plant site which is outside of the Iowa River
floodplain. A sewer already connects the two sites that
will allow flow to be routed to the new location.
Benefits of project:
• Improved publicsafety and environmental stewardship
will be achieved through better and more reliable
wastewater treatment.
The new facilities will make Iowa City better equipped
to comply with future wastewater regulations.
• In addition to improved flood protection, the new
facilities will help contain future sewer rate increases
by replacing 1930's era facilities that are in need of
major repair and are ill- suited to comply with future
wastewater regulations.
This brochure has been prepared by the City of Iowa
City to provide information about the 1 cent local
options sales tax referendum scheduled for a vote
on May 5, 2009. If you have additional questions,
contact the City Manager's office at 319- 356 -5010
or go to www.icgov.orglsalestax.
3109
Marian Karr
From: Tom Markus
Sent: Thursday, May 30, 2013 4:46 PM
Subject: Flood Update
Members of the City Council and Fellow City Employees:
Over the last several days, the City has been receiving daily updates from the United States Army Corps of Engineers
regarding the potential flooding of the Iowa River. Based on the latest projections, it appears that a flood event of some
significance and duration is imminent. Beginning today and continuing for at least a week, we expect that river waters
will continue to rise. The amount of flooding and rate at which it occurs is largely dependent on additional rainfall in the
Iowa River basin.
City staff members from multiple departments, in cooperation with local, state and federal officials, are working
diligently to address the immediate needs of the community as well as developing plans for additional actions based on
the changing flood and weather forecasts. I have the highest degree of confidence in the team members that are
actively working on this issue and firmly believe we are taking all appropriate steps at this time. With that said, each
flood event is unique and presents different challenges. There will be unanticipated issues that arise and I have full
confidence in our team's ability to act accordingly in those situations. It will take a coordinated effort from all employees
to respond to the needs generated by the flooding, while continuing to provide our regular services to the entire
community. As you have demonstrated in the past, I know that together we can rise to meet this challenge.
The City's Communications Office will be the central hub of communication during this event. If you receive calls from
members of the media, please direct those to Shannon McMahon at 319 - 356 -5013. Shannon will coordinate the release
of public information and schedule media interviews with appropriate staff members. If you receive calls or emails from
members of the general public requesting assistance, wanting to volunteer or donate resources, or seeking general
information please direct them to the United Way at 319 - 337 -8657 or 2 -1 -1. Both call centers are provided on a
regional basis by the United Way of Johnson County to free up critical staff so that they can meet disaster - related
emergencies and required public services. You can also direct people to www.icgov.org /flood for updates and additional
resources. Updates will also be posted on the City's Facebook page (https: / /www.facebook.com /pages /The - City -of-
lowa -City- Government /267660140000321) and Twitter account ( www .twitter.com /cityofiowacity).
Please send any flood - related information that needs to be shared with the public to the Communications Office.
Communications will plan on including as much information as possible in one release every day, rather than distributing
multiple releases throughout the day.
The most recent media release, which was issued this afternoon, is available at www.icgov.org/flood. I encourage you to
frequently visit this site for further updates.
While service to the public is our mission, our first priority is to insure that our employees remain safe. If at any point in
time you have safety concerns, please contact your direct supervisor, our Occupational Safety Specialist, Mike Buser, or
the City Manager's Office.
Thank you in advance for all of the hard work and extra effort that will be expended over the next several weeks.
Tom Markus
City Manager
DRAFT I P7
POLICE CITIZENS REVIEW BOARD
MINUTES - May 29, 2013
CALL TO ORDER: Chair Joseph Treloar called the meeting to order at 5:30 P.M.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Kingsley Botchway (5:32pm), Melissa Jensen, Donald King, and
Royceann Porter (5:36pm)
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Staff Kellie Tuttle and Catherine Pugh
STAFF ABSENT: None
OTHERS PRESENT: Sgt. Chris Akers of the ICPD
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL
1) Accept PCRB Community Forum Summary
2) Accept PCRB Report on Complaint #13 -03
CONSENT
CALENDAR Motion by King, seconded by Jensen to adopt the consent calendar as
presented or amended.
• Minutes of the meeting on 04/16/13
• Minutes of the meeting on 04/23/13
• Minutes of the meeting on 04/29/13
• ICPD Memorandum #13 -07 (1st Quarter 2013 Use of Force Review)
• ICPD Use of Force Report — January 2013
• ICPD Use of Force Report — February 2013
• ICPD Use of Force Report — March 2013
Motion carried, 3/0, Botchway and Porter absent.
NEW BUSINESS None.
OLD BUSINESS Community Forum — The Board reviewed the draft of the forum summary
report.
Motion by King, seconded by Jensen to accept the draft and forward to City
Council.
Motion carried, 4/0, Porter absent.
BOARD INFORMATION None.
STAFF INFORMATION None.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION None.
PCRB
May 29, 2013
Page 2
SESSION Motion by King, seconded by Jensen to adjourn into Executive Session based
on Section 21.5(1)(a) of the Code of Iowa to review or discuss records which
are required or authorized by state or federal law to be kept confidential or to
be kept confidential as a condition for that government body's possession or
continued receipt of federal funds, and 22.7(11) personal information in
confidential personnel records of public bodies including but not limited to
cities, boards of supervisors and school districts, and 22 -7(5) police officer
investigative reports, except where disclosure is authorized elsewhere in the
Code; and 22.7(18) Communications not required by law, rule or procedure
that are made to a government body or to any of its employees by identified
persons outside of government, to the extent that the government body
receiving those communications from such persons outside of government
could reasonably believe that those persons would be discouraged from
making them to that government body if they were available for general public
examination.
Motion carried, 4/0, Porter absent. Open session adjourned at 5:33 P.M.
REGULAR
SESSION Returned to open session at 5:37 P.M.
Motion by Jensen, seconded by Botchway to summarily dismiss PCRB
Complaint #13 -03 due to the complaint not being filed within 90 days of the
alleged misconduct.
Motion carried, 5/0.
TENTATIVE MEETING SCHEDULE and FUTURE AGENDAS (subject to change)
• June 11, 2013, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm (meeting date TBD)
• July 9, 2013, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm
• August 13, 2013, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm
• September 10, 2013, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm
• October 8, 2013, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm
Due to the timeline for receiving the Chief's report on PCRB Complaint
#13 -01, the June 11th meeting will be moved to a later date. Staff is checking
on meeting room availability for the following weeks in June.
ADJOURNMENT Motion for adjournment by King, seconded by Jensen.
Motion carried, 5/0.
Meeting adjourned at 5:43 P.M.
I FBI R c x
efl a
wl eD
O
H
zy
eD
�C
rD Z
N �
M O
fD
� C�J
d N
O C17
v
�.J
i
It
r
n
r
n
H
N
�x
b�d
y`"
fD
rt
FN
�
F1
QQ
N
N
O
C�7
0
7
rte•
►�
r�
00
X
/ti
✓�
✓V
/V
0
O
C�7
A
W
N
b
H
zy
eD
�C
rD Z
N �
M O
fD
� C�J
d N
O C17
v
�.J
i
It
r
n
r
n
H
N
POLICE CITIZENS REVIEW BOARD
A Board of the City of Iowa City
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City, IA 52240 -1826
(319) 356 -5041
May 29, 2013
Iowa City City Council
City of Iowa City
410 E. Washington St.
Iowa City, Iowa 52240
Re: Police Citizen Review Board's Annual Community Forum Conducted April 23, 2013
To: Whom It May Concern
The Police Citizen Review Board held its annual forum at the Iowa City Public Library in Room A at 6:00
p.m. Board members present were Joe Treloar— Chairperson, Melissa Jensen -Vice Chairperson, Don
King, Royceann Porter, and Kingsley Botchway. The Board's legal counsel, Catherine Pugh was also
present.
The Chairperson called the forum to order, shared a welcome with the attendees, and the forum was
opened to the public for questions.
The Board was asked about what training the Iowa City Police Department received in regards to service
dog awareness. The individual stated she believed the police officers did not have a good understanding
of service dogs and what they do. The discussion regarding the use of service dogs continued for a short
period of time. Chairperson Treloar agreed to contact the police department and find out.
A member of the public inquired what comments the Board had about the recent report and
recommendations to the Iowa City City Council from the Ad Hoc Diversity Committee. Member
Botchway commented that one of the Diversity Committee's goals was for there to be a little more
transparency. Chairperson Treloar stated the Board was waiting for recommendations from the City
Council before commenting. The individual inquired about the format of the Board and whether it
encouraged the public to make reports. A brief discussion followed. Ms. Pugh commented that the
Board is limited by State law, and those changes would have to be made at the legislative level. An
additional discussion followed regarding how the Board was structured, and complaints were handled.
Member Botchway commented he would like to see the Board have more impact.
Johnson County Attorney, Janet Lyness, in attendance, commented that if people had concerns with
other law enforcement agencies, they could contact that department directly and share their concerns.
All of the departments, including Iowa City have internal affairs departments. Lyness encourage to
make reports if there are concerns, as departments take the concerns seriously. Chairperson Treloar
also encourage people, if they are interested, to get involved in the Citizens Police Academy which
occurs each year.
With no further questions or comments, a motion for adjournment was raised by Botchway, and
seconded by Jensen, and voted 5 -0 to adjourn.
Adjournment 6:43pm
KT
Melissa Jensen
Vice Chairperson
Police Citizen Review Board
Transcriptions attached.
Forum agenda, minutes, transcriptions, correspondence, and handouts are all available on the
City website. (www.ic og v.org)
April 23, 2013 Iowa City Police Citizens Review Board Public Forum Page 1
Members Present: Melissa Jensen, Royceann Porter, Joseph Treloar, Kingsley Botchway II,
Donald King
Staff Present: Catherine Pugh
Public Forum:
Treloar/ Well I'm going to call the meeting of the Iowa City Police Citizens Review Board to
order. (several talking off mic) We're going to open it up for comments from the floor.
That's pretty much the whole jest of the meeting tonight. Yeah. So, uh, roll call. Don
King.
King/ Present.
Treloar/ Melissa Jensen.
Jensen/ Here.
Treloar/ Um, Kingsley Botchway.
Botchway/ Here.
Treloar/ Royceann Porter.
Porter/ Here.
Treloar/ Joe Treloar. Here.
Treloar/ Catherine Pugh.
Pugh/ Here.
Treloar/ Okay. Urn ... the purpose of our meeting tonight is our annual public forum. Uh,
we ... we're going to open up the floor to questions. We do have Janet Lyness from
the ... the County Attorney. Um, we've had questions in the past concerning, uh, officers'
rights, or citizens' rights when they're stopped by the police, when they're questioned,
detained, things like that. And, uh, we've asked Janet Lyness, who's graciously offered
to come and address those questions as the Chief Law Enforcement Officer in the area.
So we get ... get good information! Janet, would ... um, so if there are any questions for
Janet Lyness concerning, um, your rights as a citizen when you're stopped or detained or
searched by the police, now would be a good time to address those. Do we have any
questions? (several talking) Anybody has any questions we're... we're going to ask that
you come up to the mic, state your name and sign in, and then ask your question.
(several talking away from mic) Oh, yes. Urn ... this... broad... this is being taped for
rebroadcast on the City Channel 4 at a later date. Um... and... so bear that in mind.
This represents only a reasonably accurate transcription of the Iowa City Police Citizens Review
Board public forum of April 23, 2013.
April 23, 2013 Iowa City Police Citizens Review Board Public Forum Page 2
Moore/ Hi everyone! I'm Cat Moore and...
Treloar/ Actually step ... that microphone right there, so you can sign in (laughter and several
talking) I'm sorry!
Moore/ (mumbled) Okay, so this is the one I'll be using?
Treloar/ Yes!
Moore/ Okay! Hello. My name is Cat Moore. That's my art name and my activist name.
That's people in the community who know me as an artist and a person who works to...
secure rights for people, make sure that they have their rights. They know me by that
name. Otherwise, my name is Catherine. Um ... one of the things that I'd like to ask
about tonight is there seems ... I want to know have the police specifically been trained in,
when it comes to sensitivity with the service animals. Um, I know that this isn't a ... I had
a, it wasn't an incident, but... frequently when I ... I have multiple sclerosis and I have two
service dogs that help me, and when the, uh, ambulance people came, um, they were fine
cause they'd seen `em before. The particular officer that came hadn't seen them before,
and this was one of those times when my dogs would not release to ... would not stop,
cause their thing is mobility for me, make sure I'm safe and that, and until they are
comfortable with the people who were there, that they can take care of me, then they will
back away and lay down. But the only person who had a problem with them, um, was
the police officer and ... and it's like, oh, will it bite? And I think that's a reasonable
question when your service dog is a Rottweiler or a Doberman, which mine are. But
those are the kind I have and that's what I need cause for the strength and the confidence,
and independent thinking. But what I want to know is like, okay, if that had also
happened on the street, most of the time when I'm out walking, everybody wants to pet
and you're not supposed to pet. You ... but you can ask your, you know .... I want to know
like if, um, an incident where ... I've had another time when I had to call an officer to the
house because there was a problem with, uh ... with a gentleman, and um, my husband
was not at home, and um, I couldn't get them to leave but we were in the house.
Anyway, as soon as the officer came I had him come in, as soon as he saw my dogs, first
thing he did was like pull his gun, like that, and it's like ... what in the world, and
increasingly for those of us who are service animal team advocates we're seeing more
and more incidents like that where people get so afraid of an animal, um, and part of
what, I mean, if this is correctly, if it is indeed a service animal, it is not going to attack.
It is not going to act aggressive. It is not going to do that, but if a big muscled dog just
moves its muscle, that doesn't mean you need to shoot it. You know? I'm just
wondering in terms of sensitivity, that's the kind of thing that I would like to make sure
that people ... that needs to be on -going training. On- going. Cause you keep hearing
incidents, etc., and you know, it's no one dog. The dogs that terrorize us usually when
we go out are terriers, Yorkshire terriers, Cairn terriers, miniature poodles, anything
that's little with four legs and is only that tall. And they're never on a leash and they're
always bugging us. Does anyone want to respond to what I said or...
This represents only a reasonably accurate transcription of the Iowa City Police Citizens Review
Board public forum of April 23, 2013.
April 23, 2013 Iowa City Police Citizens Review Board Public Forum Page 3
King/ Does that say like `working dog,' `don't touch,' or something ... I know they have ... I don't
know, placards or vests that the dogs wear.
Moore/ Yeah, but you (both talking)
King/ ...readily identify the dog as a working dog. I mean, if I came up and there was a German
shepherd or a Rottweiler and, um ... I ... I may think twice (laughs) approaching!
Moore/ Well, you should always think twice!
King/ ...um, but if...and some of the ... say, "Don't! It's a working dog. Do not touch," you
know, so ... let the kids know (both talking) the dog's working. The dog's actually
working. (unable to hear person away from mic)
Sherry Christoffer / (away from mic, difficult to hear) ...public library (mumbled) doing that this
Thursday (mumbled) the children here at story hour about service dogs. I've been doing
that for the last eight years and ... I have educated the Johnson County ambulance service
and the transit drivers, but I've tried to educate the police officers, cause of incidents, but
they refuse. Sam Hargadine said I have no interest in hiring her to come and educate my
officers. So, that has (mumbled)
King / And I know, wasn't it a couple of years ago ... that that was brought up, um ... was there
a ... complaint? Um...that one of the officers, I don't know, they treated a dog badly or
wasn't familiar with the ... the working dog, um ... and it was brought to the Chief's
attention, and they have on -going training (several responding) and I'm not sure ... I know
a lot of the in- service training that they have, they do it maybe at roll call. It's like a 15-
minute, uh, video or something on... say the working dog, or a 15- minute video on use of
your sirens. I know a lot of that is in- service, in -house type of thing, um, when we talked
to the Chief, and I think it was at the forum a couple of years ago, that that was brought
up, and it was ... um, there was an officer in the audience and said that they do have, uh,
sensitivity training for the dogs, uh, for working dogs. And ... and people with working
dogs.
Moore/ Okay.
King/ Um ... whether they, um, need `em for... some... mentally challenged people have a dog as
a companion for `em, to help them relax. Um ... yours, like you say, helps stabilize you.
So, I...I know that they do have in- service training. I don't know who puts it on, um, but
um, that was brought up two years ago.
Moore/ Okay.
King / And I know that that was, uh, put out that they do have sensitivity training for, uh, working
dogs.
This represents only a reasonably accurate transcription of the Iowa City Police Citizens Review
Board public forum of April 23, 2013.
April 23, 2013 Iowa City Police Citizens Review Board Public Forum Page 4
Moore/ We just want to make sure to keep an open dialogue on that, because there's often, you
know, officers and stuff coming in and out all the time, and to answer one question of
yours though, um, under law, federal law, you're not required with a service dog, a
service animal, team cause now under the ... um ... under the DOJ rules, the only service
animals are dogs and miniature horses. So you can use miniature horses, um, and I
would love to get some in this area (laughter) cause I think they're... they'd be really,
cause they, you know, they live longer, they're tiny...they're not very big. They really
are a miniature horse. (several responding) So you get one, you need to get two, and
you're not supposed to bring them in the house and put them in the bed with you, but like
your dog did follow you all around the house all day long, everywhere you go. But, um,
but those are the only ones that are recognized, but it is not required by law to have a, uh,
a vest on. You're not required to wear a cape. You're not required to, what you are
required to do, however, if a person stops you and they ask you, you know, like for
instance if I was going to go into a business. And let's say someone else was there, um,
and they were wondering, "What is this dog doing here ?" So they can ask one of the...
the people who's on staff. They come ask me, you know, is this a service animal?
(person responding) Is this ... is this a working animal? And then the other question that
they can ask is, "What service does this animal perform for you ?" (person responding)
And then that's it. So ... that's ... and...it's becoming a ... a problem we're hearing in the
neighborhood as some of us who do a lot of service animal work on the internet are
hearing more and more about this, uh, people who are ... going and getting little cards
saying that they have a service animal. They're actually going to the sites, places where
we go and buy capes, jackets, and things like that. Purchase those so that way I can get
on the bus because this is my service dog. And you know you get on there and I've got
my dog and it's not ... I'm not talking about a good obedience trained dog. I'm talking
about somebody who doesn't get enough exercise, probably has too much protein in their
diet, probably gets played with aggressively, and then I'm getting on a city bus with him.
That ... that is not a service animal, and the problem is there's no way for the driver to
know. (people responding)
King/ That ... that's what I was ... wasn't saying that it was (mumbled) I'm just suggesting that,
you know, it would eliminate some of that, um, and I ... you know, I know sometimes you
don't want your dog to be notified ... to be noticed like that ... that, but if you go into a
restaurant or something and they're going to ask you, it might be, uh, probably a little
elimination if they see this vest that says `service animal' or `service dog' or something
on it.
Moore/ Most of the service animals we train, you know, like you bring ... bring your animal in
that's going to come and sit right there. Now like my Doberman likes, he's very
attractive. He's handsome. He likes women, you know, like a lot of men do, but usually
two - footed women instead of just four- footed women. So they come; he'll come in; he'll
sit upon the chair and he'll just look around, see who's looking at him. I don't know why
male dogs do that. My male Rottweiler's have done it, male Doberman does it. But they
just think they look good and they want to make sure (laughter) you catch their best
profile. You know, but normally, they go ... they go underneath, they go down, just like if
you were on a plane. They go down, and the whole thing in the training is to be
This represents only a reasonably accurate transcription of the Iowa City Police Citizens Review
Board public forum of April 23, 2013.
April 23, 2013 Iowa City Police Citizens Review Board Public Forum Page 5
unobtrusive. (person responds) Always! You know, you're there to help, you're not
there to obstruct.
Treloar/ If you'd like I'd ... I'd be more than happy to contact the Chief or probably Officer Wyss
and find out what their most recent training is, what that entails, and get back to you on
that. (both talking)
Moore/ That would be cool! That would be cool. Want me to put email address on here?
Treloar/ That'd be great!
Christoffer/ (unable to hear away from mic) ... sensitivity training too. (person responds) The
actual (mumbled) on a video.
Jensen/ Ma'am? If you could use the mic. The only reason I ... we ask that is that way it'll, the
audio, everybody can hear it.
Treloar/ People on TV will be able to hear you (laughter) (both talking)
Moore/ (several talking) yeah, we just want to make sure that there continues to be an open
dialogue, not...
Treloar/ Sure!
Moore / And a ... not a closed door.
Christoffer/ Yeah, just to make sure, I'm Sherry Christoffer, and I'm on the Coalition for Persons
With Disabilities and I'm a educator and advocator about service dogs especially and...
my whole thing is to make sure that we have the sensitivity training that all our, um...
that our service people are educated, trained to proficiency on the ins and outs on how to
identify a service dog, and to identify fakers of service dogs, and I would be more than
happy to come in and do the educating or be a part of it, and I'm sure we could get other
people ... to help out. So, that's what I would like to see more of in the community and
then I think that would help clear up some of the...I don't know ... ties that we might have
with the police or other service people in the community. (several talking)
Moore/ ... good strong well - trained, uh, dog that's gone through obedience training, whether it's
owner trained or gone through one of the groups, like the Dog Obedience Club or Spot
and Company, uh, Sue Pearson's. They're ... you know, I mean, that's a different.
They're coming in just like a show dog. You'll know from the body language etc. that
it's been trained. That's going to be very different. (people responding) you know.
Treloar/ Well and service dogs are used in so many more areas than ever used to be. I mean
there's even, um, service dogs for diabetics.
Moore/ Yeah!
This represents only a reasonably accurate transcription of the Iowa City Police Citizens Review
Board public forum of April 23, 2013.
April 23, 2013 Iowa City Police Citizens Review Board Public Forum Page 6
Treloar/ ...they can sense low blood sugar incidents coming on and ... I mean ... I would guess
that could even be a relatively small dog that you would never guess would be a service
dog (laughs)
Moore/ Well there's some people that have been having problems. One of the groups I belong to
has, um, it's for small service dogs, service animals, and they're dogs primarily, of
course, and they're...a lot of people have little Chihuahuas and the little vests and for
some reason every time they go to Walmart, the people are getting confronted when they
come in. It's like, you're kidding me. That's not a service animal! Oh no, that's not a
service animal, and... often times depending upon the need, could be anything from a
psychiatric service animal to ... could actually be one that could alert for something else,
or let's just say you just don't dare put `em down ... so that they could get stepped on.
(person responding) so... does anyone else have a comment or something they want to
make? Okay.
Treloar/ Thank you so much!
Moore/ Thank you. We don't bite! (laughter) And I'm the President of the Johnson County
Coalition for People With Disabilities. Always welcome (unable to hear, away from mic)
Treloar/ Do we have any other questions, concerns from the community?
Harper/ Hi, uh, my name is Nicholas Harper. I'm a third -year law student at the University of
Iowa College of Law. Um ... I've been a resident here at, uh, Iowa City for three years.
Um, as a law student I'm very interested in the Police Citizens Review Board. Um, I had
a couple questions about, um, some ... uh, articles that I had seen the titles of in
newspapers recently, but I hadn't actually read the articles and ... and just wondered what
...what comments you might have about, um ... those articles. Um ... one thing that I saw
is that, um ... I guess there was a minority community, um, kind of, um ... I guess a
committee that was put together that was supposed to study and discuss the interaction
between the minority community and the police enforcement. And I know that some of
their recommendations regarded the, um, the review board and I was wondering, um,
what your thoughts were on, um, any results of that, um, committee report, if you ... if you
know of it, um, and ... any thoughts you might have on its comments towards (mumbled)
specific.
Botchway/ So can you just repeat that last question as far as every, all the different things you
said?
Harper/ (laughs) Sorry! Um, just... specifically, urn ... I know that some of the recommendations
or at least the conclusions of the report referred specifically to the review board, and I
was wondering if, um, you guys had any comments or plans, um, regarding those
conclusions of the committee?
This represents only a reasonably accurate transcription of the Iowa City Police Citizens Review
Board public forum of April 23, 2013.
April 23, 2013 Iowa City Police Citizens Review Board Public Forum Page 7
Botchway/ Well I don't think the committee's talked about, um, the things that were
recommended by the Diversity Committee, um, I think ... being on the Diversity
Committee I think one of the main goals was just to, um, have a little more transparency,
um, and... show the public a little more trust as far as, um, how the PCRB was conducted
or just how they felt. I know that Orville, who was on the committee, had the idea as far
as having other people participate, um, in the process as far as the complaint process to
give that legitimacy to the public that, um, other people's eyes were on it. I know two of
the things were inviting the City Manager to be a part of the interview process, um, for
the complainant, as well as, um, the Human Rights division, as well, you know, having
that aspect in there, um, just giving another, you know, having another organization to
kind of promote that trust, but again I'm not sure what the committee's kind of talked
about. I think it's just something that still needs a lot more parts to come together and
make some of those changes that ... have uh, been recommended.
Treloar/ Kind of where we're at at this point is the recommendation has been made, it's being
submitted to City Council. They haven't acted on it yet and ... we ... we operate under the
guise of the City Council so ... we're going to wait to see what they have to say and ... if
they have recommendations for us, based on their review of the report.
Harper/ Okay. Uh, and then... um, I noticed that the Human Rights Commission, uh, also, um...
made a motion to the City Council about the board and reviewing the board and its
model, and I was wondering if you had any comments on that?
Treloar/ I don't at this time. Does anybody else?
Pugh/ I think the Diversity Committee's work was as a result of that, that motion. So that... um,
was, that request was made to the City Council. Then they appointed the Diversity
Committee to examine, not only the PCRB, but several other aspects in the community,
and so now they've made their recommendations. The City Council will consider those
and then ... then their orders will come back to the committee and to the various other
entities within the City for what changes they would like to see to ... to do a better job!
Harper/ Um, and I...um ... sorry (mumbled) Uh, just had I guess, urn ... I ... disclosure, I recently
interned with, uh, Student Legal Services at the University of Iowa, um, and so, um, I met
lots of students, urn ... a few students who had, um, encounters with officers that, um, they
were concerned about, um, and that concerns me, um... and I always offered that they
were more than welcome to file a report with the Police Citizens Review Board. Um,
sometimes they were not ... they didn't want to, they were resistant to that. Um ... and I'm
not sure whether that was because they felt like they ... there might be some kind of, um...
I don't know what the word is but, you know (mumbled) they were afraid of something
coming back to them, urn ... and I ... also ... I was wondering if the ... if the form itself and
the model of the review (mumbled) review board, um, do you believe it's conducive to
encouraging citizens to make reports? Or do you think that it is perhaps intimidating in
some ways, um, to people who are already vulnerable because they believe that their
rights have been violated?
This represents only a reasonably accurate transcription of the Iowa City Police Citizens Review
Board public forum of April 23, 2013.
April 23, 2013 Iowa City Police Citizens Review Board Public Forum Page 8
Treloar/ I'm not personally familiar with how it might be intimidating, um, if there's ... if
somebody, you know, would give me some comment on that, I'd certainly look into that.
We do make the forms available at the Library here, um, at the Broadway Neighborhood
Center, and other locations around town, um, with it in mind that some people might be
intimidated by going to the Police Department to file a complaint. Um, we've also... we
held one of our first public forums, well, not our first, but we held one of our public
forums at the City Hall and, uh, there was concern that that might be intimidating to
people because it was in such close proximity to the Police Department. So that's why
we've chosen different avenues like here at the Public Library. We've met at The Spot,
things like that. Um ... we ... we do try and address, you know, people's apprehension.
Another thing to bear in mind is, we're the Police Citizens Review Board for the Iowa
City Police Department only. So complaints...
Harper/ Not the University of Iowa.
Treloar/ (mumbled) University of Iowa, Johnson County, those... those...
Harper / Right.
Treloar/ ...those would not come before us. So...
Pugh/ And we're always, the Committee is ... uh, always willing to hear suggestions, um, you
know, if there are ideas the public has to make it a less intimidating procedure, uh, I think
the City Council would be very interested in hearing those ideas and the Commission
would certainly be interested in hearing those ideas, as well.
Harper/ Okay! Um, one question specifically I had about the form. (mumbled) I noticed that
when somebody makes a report, um ... a supervisor or investigator from the Police
Department contacts the complainant. (person responds) Urn ... I was wondering if you
could tell me ... why the, why the process is set up that way and do you think that ... is that
in itself perhaps intimidating, um, because perhaps some people come to the Citizens
Review Board because they have a distrust for police officers in general, um, or they
have had bad experiences with the police department in general, and ... that any
interaction even with a supervisor, um, might be intimidating to them.
Pugh/ Um, this is a subject that we covered rather extensively last year and, um, because
it's ... it's a little hard to understand why it is set up this way. Uh, it's a result of both
federal and state law that's in place, as to why it's investigated by the Police Department.
If the ... if the PCRB investigated the complaints, the PCRB would have no access to the
officer's side of the story. So the only way that a full investigation can take place is for
the Police Department to investigate the complaints, both from the complainant's side
and from the officer's side, so that they can get both sides of the story. Now that is one
issue that's being explored as to whether perhaps there would be, um, a member of the
PCRB at such an interview or the City Manager, um, trying to, you know, create more
checks and balances, um ... as a community we've got a lot of faith in our police
department, but certainly, you know, somebody who's got a complaint, who feels they've
This represents only a reasonably accurate transcription of the Iowa City Police Citizens Review
Board public forum of April 23, 2013.
April 23, 2013 Iowa City Police Citizens Review Board Public Forum Page 9
been treated unfairly, they've got another layer involved there, and we're trying to
recognize that and come up with ways to make that a little more user friendly, um, but the
reason that that procedure is in place that way, it's just due to the ... the state and federal
laws that are restraining how we can ... how we can operate.
Harper/ Okay. Um ... I thought I had another question but I blanked so, um, but thank you for
your answers. It's very helpful!
Treloar/ Thank you for your questions, and if you do think of your question later, please come
back (mumbled). Do we have any other questions or comments from the public? (unable
to hear person away from mic) Could you come up to the mic so the people on TV can
hear too please (laughs).
Moore/ You know, for most people any kind of contact with, um, authority figures ... for most
people any kind of contact with authority figures can be intimidating, and um, our police
who we have here to serve and protect, they also educate. They do a lot of things, um,
for us. There's also people who feel, like you know, some people are criminals. Some
people, I don't know, maybe they stole a sock from their husband's drawer, like I usually
do, um, and um... and... and have that on today so they (mumbled) guilt comes over them
when they see the officers. I don't know, but the ... part of one of the things that I've
always seen as a problem with the Police Citizen Review Board is the fact that the
powers are so limited. It's like limited civil administrator review powers. (mumbled) no
power, no authority. I mean, there ... okay, we look at this, we say here's a problem.
We're going to ... this is a problem that's been brought to our attention and then what,
takes what, three months usually before it gets run through? Or taken care of? (person
responds) And, um...also ... I guess in that time you have to make sure not only the rights
of the person who's filing the complaint, but the rights of the officer who may
be ... they're complaining about, both have civil rights. It's just a ... it seems like it's too
slow and my biggest thing has always been with the PCRB is that ... why do you have a
Citizens Review Board that's supposed to be interacting or have some kind of say about
what happens with, um, how the police conduct themselves in the community. But you
have no teeth. No teeth at all!
Pugh/ And again, that's just ... we're limited by state law. That's not something that ... we have
any say in. That's not something that the City Council can change. It just ... that would
have to go to the legislature.
Moore/ So that means it'd have to go to like Senator Grassley or Harkin or go to Loebsack, talk
to them about that. I don't think ... I'm not advocating for people who do not have...
experience with the law to take it upon themselves to practice the law. I'm not saying
that. I'm just saying that things need to be more... expo... they need to expedite, come a
little bit faster. I don't know, uh, Janet, you would know better about whether that can be
done and still offer—rights for both people, cause I ... cause that's the frustration. That is
a real frustration. Cause both people do have rights. Um ... but ... why have a Citizens
Review Board that has no teeth? Um ... you make recommendations and then it can get
This represents only a reasonably accurate transcription of the Iowa City Police Citizens Review
Board public forum of April 23, 2013.
April 23, 2013 Iowa City Police Citizens Review Board Public Forum Page 10
...go ahead and it's shot down, um, by the Chief of Police, even who's appointed to the
Police Citizens Review Board has to go through the Chief of Police.
Pugh/ Well actually no. That ... that's determined by the Council.
Moore/ Oh, really?
Pugh/ Uh huh. The Council appoints the members of the commission.
Moore/ Oh, okay!
Pugh/ And ... also, the ... the board's recommendations go to Council.
Moore/ The City Council?
Pugh/ Correct! Right, so it's not like (both talking) to the Chief. Um ... the Council reviews `em
and if there are recommendations that the board makes, they'll look into it and, I mean,
they have the power then to make changes.
Moore/ Cause we're not, I'm not really talking about the criminal things. I'm talking about more
civil than anything else. (person responds) Okay. Well, there we have it.
Treloar/ Um ... I ... I've heard the complaint that the board has no teeth a lot, but and ... I
understand their frustration. I would argue though that the board does have effect. One
of the, uh, very powerful things that the board does is it ... brings citizens, such as
yourself, and gives them an opportunity to express their concerns about the police
department, the way they thing ... think things should run, and they should ... the ways they
should be treated, and kind of gives a, uh ... an overall expectation from the public of what
they expect from their police department.
Moore/ Uh huh.
Treloar/ And that's... that's a good strong message. It also (mumbled) brings these investigations
in front of the Chief and, uh, they ultimately go in front of the Council, and... it requires
accountability, which is very powerful. So we've got ... a process where, um ... the
citizens for lack of better terms can say this isn't right or this is what we expect from you,
the police department, and ... then a review process where this is conveyed to the officers
this is what is expected of your behavior when you do your job. Um ... I think it's worth
noting too that our officers wear microphones and they have...
Moore/ Oh yeah!
Treloar/ ...and they have the cameras and I think that's very noticeably effective, I mean ... in
viewing some of these tapes, urn ... it's obvious that they know that they're going to be
held accountable for how they behave, and they behave accordingly!
This represents only a reasonably accurate transcription of the Iowa City Police Citizens Review
Board public forum of April 23, 2013.
April 23, 2013 Iowa City Police Citizens Review Board Public Forum Page 11
Moore/ Yes, obvious for some! But for others things seem to disappear. You know? And also I
wanted to make a comment about the police. They're ... the police (mumbled) for their
expectation, the fact that you exist, the Citizens Review Board, it's not just our
expectations of the police. But for us as the public, they should be able to expect certain
things from us, like for instance that officer who was, uh, choked over on ... Burlington
Street. I was so angry when I saw that. People went right by. Nobody even called it in!
What right, you know, we have an expectation. They should have an expectation of... of,
from us of not only respect or of support, they should at least of called that in, and, you
know, that's... it does work two ways. It's not just a one -way thing. (person responds)
Treloar/ The police department does work most effectively when ... when they have the support
and cooperation from t he community because... there's just so many more eyes and ears
out to report what's going on and it's a win -win situation when you have that kind of
relationship.
Moore / Uh -huh.
Treloar/ Um ... I ... it's timely and key that this recent incident in Boston. It's on the main, uh,
evidence was gathered by citizens' cameras. Citizens turned in this information. They
worked with the police department. They helped resolve the situation in a timely manner,
to the betterment of all! And ... I think that's fantastic, getting the public involved in
helping the police, and the police depending on the public for support. That's the best of
all worlds.
Moore/ I mean, there is that but there's a science fiction movie called "Equilibrium." Sometime
I'm going to suggest that you have a look at that (several responding) Um ... Christian
Bales is in it. He's had his teeth done. He's a superstar police officer, you know, he can
do the catena and numchucks and everything! You know, but ... at that point, everywhere
you go in that society there's eyes. That's, you know, that's been a problem too. There's
eyes looking. People taking these pictures all over the place. And invading privacy too.
But you know I give you your point.
Treloar/ Thank you (several talking)
Botchway/ I want to make one more comment kind of to what you were saying.
Moore/ Okay!
Botchway/ One, "Equilibrium" is a ... amazing movie!
Moore/ Yeah!
Botchway/ I've seen it a couple of times! (laughter) Um, actually came before the "Matrix" I
think and so I...
Moore/ Yeah, it did!
This represents only a reasonably accurate transcription of the Iowa City Police Citizens Review
Board public forum of April 23, 2013.
April 23, 2013 Iowa City Police Citizens Review Board Public Forum Page 12
Botchway/ ...yeah, well in that ... but as far as your comment about teeth I do agree with you.
Does need to happen both ways. Um, specifically, um... can't remember the gentleman
that was just up here when he talked about, um, just students that were, um, saying that
they felt intimidated. You know, I think those type of things go underreported, um,
possibly, and ... I'd like to see more complaints. I'd like to see more complaints with
actual teeth, where you know, there was an actual violation, um, legitimate violation that
occurred, so the board can present a recommendation to City Council that makes some
change. I...I think the public obviously is feeling some type of way about how the police
are acting, but there's no documentation.
Moore/ Uh -huh.
Botchway/ I mean, I'm all about a paper trail, not that I don't ... yeah, I'm all about a paper trail,
and I like to see that type of, um. ... you know, aggression or public outcry sort of tunneled
into more complaints about what's going on so, you know, some of these comments that
students are making are actually bearing some teeth.
Moore/ They're backed up by evidence.
Botchway/ Right.
Moore/ ...as you said before, cause otherwise it just sounds like wh000, the Wicked Witch! You
know! I'm going to leave if you guys don't mind (mumbled) (laughter)
Treloar/ Thank you so much! Any other comments, questions? Thank you. I'm going to give it
another minute just in case somebody else wants to say anything or ... (unable to hear
person away from mic) We'll give it to Janet Lyness to (both talking)
Lyness/ Yeah, Janet Lyness. Um, just to let people know too since this is going to be, um,
broadcast probably, if there is a complaint, I mean, the Iowa City Citizens, the Police
Citizens Review Board is one place to make complaints. Everybody should also know
that all the other law enforcement agencies, if you make a ... if you're dealing with
University police or Coralville or Johnson County Sheriff's Office or North Liberty, you
can certainly call that department and make ... and register a complaint with them. All of
them have internal affairs, uh, kinds of review, and so they will do an investigation, so if
you have a complaint about University police, definitely call University police...
University police has quite a few chains of command, up to the President at the
University of Iowa and then the Board of Regents and then the Governor. So, there's a
lot of steps along the way too to make those complaints. So if you, um, do have a
compliant outside of Iowa City, or even within Iowa City, don't hesitate to call, uh, the
Iowa City Police Department, as well, um, as was mentioned it's like most of the law
enforcement officers have, um, cameras in the cars, so if there's something that can be,
that was recorded, they will certainly take a look at that. Uh, University police I think are
actually a lot of them are wearing cameras on their person as they're out patrolling. So
that's something that could be checked as well, um... so the police are doing a lot more,
This represents only a reasonably accurate transcription of the Iowa City Police Citizens Review
Board public forum of April 23, 2013.
April 23, 2013 Iowa City Police Citizens Review Board Public Forum Page 13
recording when they're interviewing people within, um, an interview room. There should
be a recording of that too so there's going to be more and more ways to be able to—to
check and law enforcement, uh, officials that, you know, up the chain of command really
do want to hear complaints. If they don't hear about it, they can't make changes. So if
there are concerns and there are problems that you're seeing with officers, anybody, I do
encourage you to make those reports because if it... if it's not... if it's not reported, it may
not change, and if it is reported, I do believe that the people in law enforcement, you
know, the higher ups that get those reports really are going to try to make it ... make a
change and take that really seriously any complaints, and we'll look at whatever video
information they can get, etc. I know within the County if we get a complaint about
something going on, we will do our best to try to investigate it and try to make changes.
So I really do encourage everybody, um, make complaints, tell your friends, tell other
people — if they have a problem, make that complaint because it's really hard to make
changes if we don't hear what the problems are. So, please do that.
Treloar/ I'd like to make another plug (laughs) Um, the local law enforcement agencies, the
Sheriff's Department, Iowa City Police Department, Coralville Police department, and
University Police Department every year put on a citizens police academy, usually starts
in January. It's about 12 weeks long and it's an excellent way to learn about what the
police do, why they do what they do, how they do what they do. It's just a tremendously
good idea. And I would encourage everyone if they can have the opportunity to attend
that, it's ... it's very informative. If you're at all interested in law enforcement, it's a very,
very good thing to see.
Moore/ How much does it cost?
King/ $25.00
Treloar/ $25.
Moore/ (unable to hear, away from mic)
Treloar/ Any other comments? Going once ... oh (mumbled)
Lyness/ ...(away from mic) I'll be glad to try (laughter)
Treloar/ Um, do any board members have questions for Janet or...
Jensen/ I do not but thank you for the offer! (laughs)
Treloar/ Um, hearing no other comments, I ... I'm going to wrap this up. I want to again thank
Janet Lyness for coming and being with us this evening to answer questions and thank
you so much for coming and sharing your concerns and questions with us this evening,
and uh ... at this time I'll entertain a motion to adjourn.
King/ So moved.
This represents only a reasonably accurate transcription of the Iowa City Police Citizens Review
Board public forum of April 23, 2013.
April 23, 2013 Iowa City Police Citizens Review Board Public Forum Page 14
Jensen/ Second.
Treloar/ Moved and seconded. All in favor say aye. All opposed same sign. We're adjourned,
folks. Thank you so much for coming!
Jensen/ Thank you!
This represents only a reasonably accurate transcription of the Iowa City Police Citizens Review
Board public forum of April 23, 2013.
POLICE CITIZENS REVIEW BOARD
A Board of the City of Iowa City
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City IA 52240 -1826
(319)356 -5041
PCRB REPORT OF SUMMARY DISMISSAL TO THE CITY
COUNCIL
Re: Investigation of Complaint PCRB #13 -03
PCRB Complaint #13 -03, filed May 13, 2013, was summarily dismissed as
required by the City Code, Section 8 -8 -3 D and 8 -8 -3 E. The complaint was not
filed within 90 (ninety) days of the alleged misconduct.
DATED: May 30, 2013
PCRUrimeliness Report Form:4/13/99
IP8
IOWA CITY TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
MONDAY, APRIL 22,2013--5:30 P.M.
DRAFT
CITY CABLE TV OFFICE, 10 S. LINN ST. -TOWER PLACE PARKING FACILITY
MEMBERS PRESENT: Matt Butler, Laura Bergus, Nicholas Kilburg, Brain Elias
MEMBERS ABSENT: Alexa Homewood
STAFF PRESENT: Mike Brau, Bob Hardy, Ty Coleman
OTHERS PRESENT: Josh Goding, Hans Hoerschelman, Bond Drager, Kevin Hoyland, Emily
Light
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL
None at this time.
SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION
Bergus said she would be concerned if the PATV contract made substantial changes from the existing
contract and went to before the City Council without an educational component to explain what was
being proposed and why. Bergus said it is important for the Commission to. establish a record that
articulates why the Commission believes this contract is appropriate for the next five years. Butler
asked if there are any areas in the contract that will be significantly changed. Hardy said how the
money is being used needs to be discussed. Bergus asked Hardy how he perceives the issue of how
funds are being used reflected in the PATV contract. Hardy said that in the past the City has given the
entire amount of funding to PATV even though it is not required by the franchise agreement. Hardy
said is unsure what the City administration wishes him to do. The question needs to be asked if
budgets need to be tightened and money put aside. Bergus said the Commission needs to see the draft
contract in advance of the May Commission meeting. Bergus and Kilburg agreed to serve on a
subcommittee to deal with the contract. Hoerschelman said the collection of broadband Internet
surveys will end May 10. Placing a flyer in the city water bills proved an effective method of
soliciting responses. When the analysis is complete the data will be provided to Internet service
providers and the public. The Commission might wish to consider how to disseminate the results. The
Commission may wish to hold a public forum to address questions resulting from the survey. One
result from the survey that stands out is the lack of information the public has about many aspects of
their service such as the amount of bandwidth they are provisioned to receive. Brau distributed a
document that indicated what questions would be paired for a cross tabulation analysis and ask
Commissioners to forward any additional cross tabulations they would like to have performed.
Kilburg said he would be interested in running an analysis on those who use an Internet connection
from home for work purposes.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Kilburg moved and Butler seconded a motion to approve the March 25, 2013 minutes. The motion
passed unanimously.
ANNOUNCEMENTS OF COMMISSIONERS
None.
SHORT PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS
None.
CONSUMER ISSUES
Hardy said he had no complaints to report. In regards to questions put Mediacom Hardy said that
Grassley told him that he will try and get the service call phone completion rate. Grassley also
informed Hardy that standard Internet rates are not available on the Internet because introductory and
special prices are typical. To list a standard price would be misleading. Regarding the pattern of
complaints or a complaint analysis Hardy said Grassley will try and get that information. Bergus had
requested Hardy inquire of Mediacom what might be included in an Iowa City "social contract"
agreement Mediacom has with municipalities that have been converted to a state issued franchise.
Hardy said he will contact some cities that have been converted. Butler asked if prices varied from
area to area. Brau said that Meidacom's Internet prices are standardized across the country but
television prices vary from area to area.
MEDIACOM REPORT
Hardy said Grassley was unable to attend.
LOCAL ACCESS CHANNELS REPORTS
Bergus noted that the library, PATV, and City Channel 4 had written reports in the meeting packet.
The Senior Center distributed a report at the meeting. Hoyland said the school district has a shoot
scheduled of an event to honor retiring teachers and present the annual employee awards. Light said
the Senior Center TV will be having an open house May 16 that will feature a sampling of SCTV
programming and an introduction to use of video equipment. Drager reported the library is looking for
an intern for the next year. The position is paid. Kilburg asked if Hardy had heard anything from
Kirkwood. Hardy said he had not contacted them but will do so.
CABLE TV ADMINISTRATOR REPORT
Hardy said he had nothing to report.
PATV CONTRACT
Hardy said he and Goding have not met. Bergus asked about the status of a memo Hardy discussed at
the last meeting. Hardy said he is now unclear on the purpose of the memo. The considerations of the
long -term future for public access as they relate to the terms of a new contract have evolved. Hardy
said he will prepare a memo addressing the future of public access with a view more towards the end
of the five -year period between now and the end of the franchise agreement. Hardy said he will be
recommending a 5 -year contract rather than one for 3. Deliberations on the future of pubic access
could begin after about 4 %2 years. The contract will likely be much the same but the level of funding
and putting aside funds will need to be addressed. Bergus said she would be concerned if the PATV
contract made substantial changes from the existing contract and went to before the City Council
without an educational component explain what was being proposed and why. Bergus said it is
important for the Commission to establish a record that articulates why the Commission believes this
contract is appropriate for the next five years. Butler asked if there are any areas in the contract that
will be significantly changed. Hardy said how the money is being used needs to be discussed. Bergus
asked Hardy how he perceives the issue of how funds are being used reflected in the PATV contract.
Hardy said that in the past the City has given the entire amount of funding to PATV even though it is
not required by the franchise agreement. Hardy said he is unsure what the City administration wishes
him to do. The questions of budget tightening and setting money aside need to be asked. Bergus asked
if there was any intention to issue an RFP for public access services. Hardy said he had no intention at
this time. Bergus asked if Hardy anticipated having a draft contract for the May Commission meeting.
Hardy said that is his expectation. Hardy said it was just a matter of getting everyone to the table.
Bergus said the Commission needs to see the draft contract in advance of the May Commission
meeting. Bergus and Kilburg agreed to serve on a subcommittee to assist with the contract.
BROADBANDSURVEY
Hoerschelman said the collection of surveys will end May 10. Placing a flyer in the city water bills
proved an effective method of soliciting responses. When the analysis is complete the data will be
provided to Internet service providers and the public. The Commission might wish to consider how to
best disseminate the results. The Commission may wish to hold a public forum to address questions
resulting from the survey. One result from the survey that stands out is the lack of information the
public has about many aspects of their service such as the amount of bandwidth they are provisioned to
receive. In fact, this information is not provided on billing statements. Hoerschelman also note that
the responses to the RFP regarding selling a portion of the state -owned Iowa Communications
Network (ICN) is due at the end of the month. Brau distributed a document that indicated what
questions would be paired for a cross tabulation analysis and ask Commissioners to forward any
additional cross tabulations they would like to have performed. Kilburg said he would be interested in
running an analysis on those who use an Internet connection from home for work purposes.
NEXT MEETING
Due to Memorial Day the next meeting will be held June 3.
ADJOURNMENT
Elias moved and Butler seconded a motion to adjourn. The motion was approved unanimously. The
meeting was adjourned at 6:40 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Michael Brau
Cable TV Administrative Aide
TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
12 MONTH ATTENDANCE RECORD
(X) = Present
(0) = Absent
(O /C) = Absent /Called (Excused)
Hoerschelma
n
Bergus
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
Kilburg
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)