HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-07-15 Bd Comm minutesAd Hoc Senior Services Committee
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June 9, 2014
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MINUTES FINAL
AD HOC SENIOR SERVICES COMMITTEE
JUNE 9, 2014 — 3:30 P.M.
HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
Members Present: Joe Younker (Chair), Jay Honohan, Rick Dobyns, Jane Dohrmann,
Mercedes Bern -Klug (arrived 3:50), Ellen Cannon, Hiram Rick Webber
Staff Present: Fruin, Karr, Kopping, Craig, O'Brien, Moran, Dyson, Hightshoe
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council
action):
None
CALL TO ORDER:
Chairperson Younker called the meeting to order at 3:30 P.M.
CONSIDER MOTION ADOPTING CONSENT CALENDAR AS PRESENTED OR AMENDED:
a. Minutes of the Meeting on 05/19/14 — Younker asked if there were any
changes or additions to the Consent Calendar. Honohan moved to accept the
Consent Calendar as presented, seconded by Dobyns. Motion carried 6 -0;
Bern -Klug absent.
b. Correspondence — None.
CITY DEPARTMENT PRESENTATIONS:
a. Library — Susan Craig, Iowa City Public Library Director, spoke to Members first.
She noted that they should have received a memo from Kara Logsden,
Community and Access Services Coordinator, about the variety of services the
Library offers. She added that the Library used the age of 55 as they reviewed
their services for seniors. There are approximately 5,000 people within the Iowa
City city limits who are over the age of 55 and currently have an active library
card, and around 1,000 people in rural Johnson County. Craig noted that the
large -print collection, for example, is one more heavily used by people over the
age of 55. Another area of interest for this age group is learning the new
technologies. The Library offers both classes and one -on -one learning through
the 'Drop -In Tech Help' feature for those needing help with a new smart phone,
for example. Craig also noted that they have hundreds of volunteers at the
Library, and that these volunteers are typically over the age of 55. Another
service of the Library that is typically utilized by the over 55 age group is the 'At-
Home Services' program. This program is open to all ages, but the majority of
users are over 55 and are unable to physically leave their homes to use the
library services.
Craig continued, noting that in their current strategic plan there is a specific goal
of doing more outreach to those citizens over the age of 55. This led to the
offering of more classes for this age group, and also more promotion of the 'At-
Home' program. Honohan noted that he had read the report and he asked for
some clarification on the numbers shown. Craig responded, noting that they do
not track participants' ages, other than when someone applies for a library card.
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In this instance, participants are asked their date of birth. Honohan then asked
about the tech programs and how the Library staffs these. Craig noted that if it is
a class, the Library has trained staff to teach these. If staff is unable to answer a
question, they will find somebody who can, according to Craig. Honohan asked if
Craig had any idea of attendance numbers for these tech -type of programs,
where the senior age group may have attended. For the drop -in and the classes
offered, Craig stated that a significant number of the participants are over the age
of 55, but that again, they do not collect this information from participants.
Honohan stated that it would be helpful to have some attendance numbers for
these programs, mainly for the over 55 group.
Dobyns stated that he had a couple of questions for Craig. First he asked that
she briefly describe the conference rooms that are available at the Library, and
times of day that these are available, as well. Craig responded, noting that the
Library has five public meeting rooms, which are booked through either the
online process, via telephone, or in person. To use these rooms, Craig noted,
you need to be the representative of a non - profit group. Commercial use is not
allowed for these rooms, as the Library does not charge for use of these rooms.
In addition to these larger rooms, the Library also has four conference rooms and
four discussion rooms, each of varying sizes. These rooms are on a first -come,
first -serve basis. Dobyns noted that it sounds like the busiest time for these
spaces is during the academic year. He asked what the probability is of
obtaining Room A, the most popular at the Library, during this peak use time.
Craig stated that between 9:00 and 4:00, chances would be greater, that the
evening times are typically booked well ahead of time. Dobyns asked Craig if
she could get some numbers on both Rooms A, B, and C. He asked if the
Library has staff on -hand for these rooms when they are so heavily used, to do
things like set up, clean, etc. Craig stated that staff does typically check the
rooms after usage, but that due to not charging for the rooms, staff does not do
anything special. There is a standard set up with a podium chairs, tables, that
type of thing. If a special set up is needed, the user needs to do that themselves.
Craig stated that the Library does have sophisticated AV capabilities in Room A
for people to use, and if help is needed, the Library asks that participants contact
them beforehand in order to make sure they know how to use the equipment
prior to their use of the room.
Dobyns then asked about grants and whether the Library has seen any that are
geared towards senior services. Craig responded that she has seen some small
ones, such as the one they recently received from the Pilot Club. Next year the
Library will begin a program called `Traveling Tales,' which is based on books
and programming that goes to dementia facilities in the area. This program is
specifically designed for people with dementia to talk about books and to
experience other cultures through this. The grant from the local Pilot Club will
allow the Library to purchase materials for this program. Craig stated that the
Library, in addition to grant funding, can go through their Foundation for local
donations to help fund programming initiatives.
Honohan asked if these types of grants are one -time things. Craig responded
that typically they are, that they are meant to help get programming started in a
particular area. A question was then asked about the Library's outreach
services. Craig noted that the biggest outreach efforts go to those citizens who
have a difficult time getting to the Library in person. There are currently around
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20 outreach collections, according to Craig, which are primarily made up of items
the Library has multiple copies of, gift materials that are not needed in the main
collections, and large -print material for the various retirement communities and
nursing homes in the area. Another outreach area that the Library has
experimented with is having a tech drop -in at the local HyVee. Craig stated that
this was not very well received and that they have had better luck with this
offering at the Library instead.
C. Parks & Recreation — Mike Moran, Parks and Recreation Director, spoke next.
Chad Dyson, Recreation Superintendent, was also present. Moran gave
Members some background on the relationship between Parks and Rec and the
Senior Center, beginning with the Golden Age Club and the annual Christmas
dinner. Moran then spoke to the philosophy differences between Parks and Rec
and the Senior Center. Where Parks and Rec provides services to all age
groups, from birth through death so to speak, the Senior Center is targeting a
specific audience. Moran noted that where the Senior Center is unable to
provide something, such as swimming, Parks and Rec can provide. In this way
they have collaborated on facility -based needs.
Moran continued, stating that Parks and Rec works towards recovering 50% of
their budget through fees and charges. They also work towards having their
adult programs fully recovered through fees, and youth programs at 50 %.
Programs for those with special needs has an almost zero recoupment,
according to Moran. As for fee policies, Moran explained that Parks & Rec fees
are based on income, not age. He then spoke to the structure of Parks and Rec,
and how they are similar to the Senior Center in that they also have a
Commission appointed by City Council. Also similar is how both Parks and Rec
and the Senior Center put out brochures of their programming for the public's
information. Moran then laid out the various departments within Parks and Rec,
with Recreation being the largest.
Dyson spoke to Members next and shared a handout showing some of the
breakdown in numbers regarding Parks and Rec's senior services. Aquatic
programming is one of the more popular programs with the senior crowd,
according to Dyson. Of the total 220 annual swim passes sold each year, 139, or
63 %, are to people in the 55 and up crowd. Younkers asked if there are any
perceived obstacles to Parks and Rec delivering programming to seniors. Moran
responded that space would be one major factor. Dobyns asked what time of
room space Parks and Rec has in its various facilities for public use, and also
what their general availability is. Moran stated that the Recreation Center has
three rooms, sometimes four. Mercer Park has two, with their availability being
slim to none, according to Moran. He added that summer is their busiest time
due to summer camp programming. Evenings are also busy, with local service
organizations using the rooms. Dobyns then asked what type of opportunities
are available for decentralizing programs and putting them into the
neighborhoods instead by using places of faith, community centers, etc., instead.
Moran stated that during the summer months they do bring the programs to the
neighborhoods, through Party in the Park and similar programs. Moran stated
that they could look into more of this, but that it would then become a staffing
issue of some type. He added that they do have a good relationship with the
School District and do use various facilities throughout the district. Fruin noted
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that currently they are working with the District as they plan new facilities and
renovate old ones. As renovations are done, the City is looking for ways to
participate so that renovated spaces can become more available for public uses
outside of the school. Honohan asked if there is a charge for using school
facilities. Moran responded that this has been free, but that this is one of the
things they have been discussing. With new facilities coming online, this is likely
to change.
Honohan then asked some questions of Dyson regarding the handout on
attendance numbers. More specifically, he asked how many sessions there are
of the Adult Art Class. Dyson responded, stating that they typically have two
sessions per season, and then three seasons. This would be six to eight
sessions annually. Honohan asked if this would be the same for other program/
activities listed. Dyson stated that it would also apply to Adult Fitness /Dance,
Aquacise, and Adult Athletics. Pickle Ball, on the other hand, shows a daily
average. The Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program is a bit different, with classes
fluctuating from three participants in a class to 12 or 15. This program is done on
a volunteer basis through the Arthritis Foundation.
d. Transportation — Chris O'Brien, Transportation Services Director, spoke about
his department's operations, noting that they oversee both Parking and Transit
operations for the City. O'Brien gave a brief overview of what services Transit
offers, including their SEATS operation. O'Brien made special note of `off -peak
hours,' stating that they will further discuss this when they speak to 'off -peak
passes' for seniors and those with disabilities. Speaking to goals of the Transit
department, O'Brien noted that they have a goal of 33% that they try to recoup
with fares. He continued to explain the various funding sources for Transit, and
also shared various statistics with Members. O'Brien highlighted three bus
passes of particular interest to this group — the `Off -Peak Senior,' 'Senior Low
Income,' and a 'Disabled' pass. Bern -Klug asked which service is ending in
January. O'Brien responded that this is the SEATS reduced fare, the paratransit
services. O'Brien further explained that this fare was part of a phased out option
that was set to expire in 18 months.
Dobyns asked O'Brien to further explain the revenue realities that led to these
changes, especially in light of the fact that there is a change in available
resources. O'Brien broke down the cost of a ride, both in regular transit and in
SEATS, giving Members a clearer picture of what they are talking about with a
change in available resources. Dobyns asked O'Brien to further clarify just why
there is less money available for paratransit services, and O'Brien outlined
funding changes and philosophies. Fruin noted that the City, along with
Coralville, contracted with the County to provide the SEATS service. The County
significantly reduced their funding during the last negotiation, and the City had to
make some adjustments. Therefore, Sunday service was one service cut and
half -fare was set to be phased out.
Fruin asked O'Brien to address an issue that was brought up at the previous
meeting, and that is when does the bus stop in front of the Senior Center and
when do they only drop off at the main hub downtown. O'Brien responded that
the Towncrest, Court Hill, free shuttle, and 7t" Avenue routes all stop on
Washington Street, outside the Senior Center. O'Brien continued to respond to
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Members' questions regarding transit and SEATS services. Bern -Klug asked
O'Brien if they intend to seek more funds in order to restore Sunday service, or is
this going to be the new normal. He noted that as of right now, this is the new
normal.
O'Brien then spoke to Parking operations. He noted in particular the Tower
Place parking facility, directly next to the Senior Center. He noted that they have
an arrangement with the Center to buffer off an additional 75 spaces, especially
during the academic year. Honohan noted that during the time when it states the
parking deck is full, he can still get in with his pass. O'Brien stated that this is
correct and he further explained how Senior Center users can be assured of a
parking space during these peak periods. Honohan noted that he pays $100 per
year for his pass.
Dobyns asked what they have available for parking at the Library and at the
Recreation Center, and if any of the new developments in the area will interfere
with parking. O'Brien noted that his understanding is that much of this new
development will be providing its own parking on -site. As for the Recreation
Center's lot, it is to be reconfigured to allow for more parking. As for the Library,
O'Brien noted the on- street parking availability, as well as the Dubuque Street
facility at the corner of Linn and Burlington Streets. Honohan noted that the
Library also has five or six spaces for 20- minute parking, and in his experience
these work very well.
b. Neighborhood & Development Services (Aid to Agencies) — Tracy Hightshoe
from Neighborhood and Development Services addressed Members on the Aid
to Agencies process, as well as the Community Development Block Grant funds.
Hightshoe noted that the Aid to Agencies funds are available for operating
expenses, especially for local non - profits to use in their operations. She
explained the process that agencies go through annually, and how their
application is a request not only to Aid to Agencies, but also for United Way,
Johnson County, and Coralville funding. Hightshoe further explained where
these funds come from, noting that they have seen a decrease in funding. She
then explained what the Community Development Block Grant funds are and
where they come from. Hightshoe noted that these funds were used in several
senior housing projects — Concord Terrace, Lexington, Regency Place.
Fruin clarified for Members what City Steps is — a five -year plan that the federal
government requires, one that basically forces you to prioritize needs within the
community. He asked Hightshoe to address where senior services falls in the
City's priority list at this time. Fruin added that this is important as they will be
working on a new five -year plan very soon. He asked Hightshoe to also address
the level of funding they have been working with in the last few years when it
comes to senior services. Hightshoe noted that the funding provided for senior
services in the last few years has been made mostly to Elder Services to fund
four of their programs. Meals on Wheels and case management are two of the
primary programs being funded. Pathways Adult Day Health Care has also
received funds from the City, according to Hightshoe. Through the Home
program, Hightshoe noted that funds have gone to Lexington, Concord, and
Regency Heights for housing needs.
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As for where senior services is ranked in the City's priority list, Hightshoe noted
that the current five -year plan has given senior services a `medium' priority. She
explained that they are currently beginning the process of working with a
consultant to create the next five -year plan's priorities. She added that, in fact,
there is a community needs hearing tomorrow evening at the Senior Center.
Hightshoe then further clarified how they are addressing this prioritization
process. Younker asked how Elder Services is categorized, and Hightshoe
responded that they are classified in a 'general' category of senior services. She
noted that when it comes to housing, it is typically not categorized as senior so
much as it is income level.
Fruin then asked Hightshoe to give some examples from the various priority
levels, such as some high priority items. Hightshoe noted that high priorities are
mental health services, transportation, youth services, and neighborhood
services. Medium priorities include items such as health services, and Free
Lunch, Free Medical Clinic, and Pathways all fit in this category. Hightshoe
further explained that just because something is given a medium priority, it does
not mean the service is not needed. The priorities are given based on whether
something is a good fit for federal funds. Due to the income documenting
needed, some programs just are not a good fit for these requirements, according
to Hightshoe.
Honohan then asked for some clarification about the number of neighborhood
centers that are funded from these federal funds. Hightshoe noted that
Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County is the actual non - profit agency that
has two neighborhood centers — Pheasant Ridge and Broadway — in Iowa City.
The funding goes to the actual non - profit, who in turn takes care of the two
centers. These centers provide mainly subsidized childcare for children under
five, youth programming, summer camps, and GED services for adults.
Honohan asked for some further clarification on where these federal funds go
and Hightshoe gave several examples of this, noting that the key here is the
agencies have to apply for these funds. The primary programs for seniors, that
are funded through these dollars, are Elder Services and Pathways. Fruin asked
if the City itself can apply for these funds, and Hightshoe noted that it can, and
that Parks and Rec has applied for funds to the various splash pads in the
neighborhoods. The School District has also applied for funds to use in
playground improvements, and the Housing Authority has applied for tenant -
based rent assistance for seniors.
Dobyns stated that he finds what Housing does for seniors to be very broad
based. He noted that what Hightshoe has been talking about covers many
entities who may or may not touch on senior services. However, the amount of
monies given to these many agencies is actually very small when you look at the
whole picture. Hightshoe noted that the annual action plan for the last five years
is on the City's web site, and that there is a page in there showing what was
requested and what was actually funded, which might show Dobyns that gap he
is referring to. Dobyns stated that he has seen this, but that it doesn't really give
all the information he is looking for. Younker asked how difficult it would be for
Hightshoe to gather this information for a five -year period. Hightshoe noted that
staff can work on gathering this information for the Committee.
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Bern -Klug noted that this Committee needs to formulate their report by
December, and she asked Hightshoe when they will have their prioritization of
senior services completed. Hightshoe stated that they have to have their
document finalized in December, as well. She briefly explained that they have
been cautioning agencies to not expect the same amount of funding as previous
years, because much of the amounts that will be available are still unknown.
Fruin interjected that this is why meetings like tomorrow's hearing at the Senior
Center on community needs is so important. By getting feedback on what
services are truly needed and what should be a high priority, the process can
hopefully rank these items accordingly. Hightshoe noted several other meetings
where senior services can be talked about — tomorrow at 8:30 A.M. a session for
affordable housing providers; Wednesday, June 11, at 11:00 A.M. a session for
social service providers; and tomorrow evening the meeting at the Senior Center
for general input.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Bryson Dean, a member of the Senior Center, spoke to Members, stating that she is
happy that the City Council has chosen to address senior needs in this manner. She
stated that she finds it rather interesting that questions keep coming up about space
when she thought they were talking about people and their needs. Continuing, she
stated that at the last meeting Councilperson Dobyns hypothetically asked Senior
Services Coordinator Linda Kopping what she might do for senior services if there was
`zero footprint.' She questioned what Dobyns meant by this comment, adding that in
this meeting he is again talking about space and meeting rooms and what events are
taking place where. Dean stated that it was also curious when the transportation piece
was presented. Nobody asked what might be the possibility of a dedicated stop for the
Senior Center. She added that this has been a very popular topic at the Center, as
some of the Members have trouble walking from the closest bus stop. She stated that
right now it appears there are some hidden agendas here and that hopefully things will
be clarified as they move through these issues. Webber asked for some clarification on
the dedicated stop issue, and whether Dean means right in front of the Center, versus a
stop nearby. She responded that this is indeed what she is referring to.
Kathy Mitchell, a Senior Center Commissioner, spoke next. She spoke to the choices in
the community for young people and children, for families, and for the college students.
She pointed out that this shows how unique the Iowa City /Johnson County Senior
Center is, in that it provides seven days of dedicated service to seniors with the
computer lab and continual volunteers to help anyone needing it. She spoke to some of
the other services offered, many seven days a week, that help seniors with the modern
technologies and the modern world.
USE OF SUBCOMMITTEES:
Younker stated that he and Vice Chair Dohrmann met recently to discuss ways to give
some structure to this Committee's work in order for them to meet their goals and
timelines. He reiterated what their charge is — evaluating and assessing the Senior
Center; making recommendations to City Council on the use of financial and physical
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resources as they relate to senior services; and to then identify obstacles, including
facility obstacles, that impede people's opportunities to take advantage of senior
services. Younker added that he believes it is important for this Committee to have
transparency and for the public to know just what they are doing. He added that
Members have a copy of the email that basically lays out a proposal. This proposal is to
have three subcommittees. One would be tasked with completing the Senior Center
evaluation. The second would be charged with evaluating the physical and financial
resources; and the third subcommittee would be a drafting subcommittee. The finished
product will be a written recommendation to the City Council. The third charge of
identifying obstacles to these services will be covered by the first two subcommittees as
they work through their issues. As for a timeline, Younker explained how they would
like to handle this. First, they need to have more periods for public comment. He
suggested they have an open public forum in early July, in order to get the public's
perception of what is working well, what is not working, what needs to be made
available, etc., before the subcommittees dive into their work. Younker stated that the
goal would be to have the subcommittees meet on their own and work towards
preparing draft reports for their particular areas. Ideally these draft reports would be
ready by early September. At that time, these can be brought to the Committee as a
whole for comment, as well as for more public comment. Once these reports are given
to the drafting subcommittee, the goal would be to have an initial draft report by early
October. At this time there would be more public comment and revisions made as
needed, with the goal then of meeting that December deadline.
Webber noted that this gives them three months to get the understanding they need to
make these decisions. He added that they won't know what the critical funding is going
to be until the end of the year. Honohan noted that this is due in December, and the
Council will start its budget process in early January, and that this may be why the
Council selected the December date. Webber agreed, stating that they would have
former budgetary considerations to review to see what is actually needed to keep things
running. Honohan stated that he is all in favor of the public meeting that Younker
mentioned, but he questioned the location of said meeting. He added that he believes
they would have better participation if held at the Senior Center versus City Hall.
Webber agreed, stating that he was unaware that the Senior Center has been managed
by three professionals for 30 -some odd years, and they use only volunteers to fill in the
gaps. He added that the Center has been accredited twice, which is quite impressive,
and rated in the top ten in the nation. He believes they need to focus some attention on
this ongoing victory, perhaps with a plaque.
Dobyns then asked if there is going to be one public meeting with a lot of comment, or
several meetings to gather this info. Younker stated that he believes there will be
several types of public meetings needed. The one he is calling for in July is a general
public forum. As they work through their recommendations in subcommittee, Younker
stated that the public meetings then can be more focused on particular .
recommendations, for example. Dobyns stated that he strongly disagrees with having
this particular meeting at the Senior Center due to the bias with that population. He
further explained his belief, adding that City Hall represents all of the people, all of the
entities involved in this issue. Honohan noted that obviously they disagree here. He
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noted that a specific charge is to review the Senior Center, and he believes they need to
hear from the people who use the Center. Younker further explained what his original
intent was for this first meeting. He believes that they need to let the public comment on
the process and the job of the Committee before they move forward. Honohan noted
that only 10 people are attending the current meeting in the City Hall location, versus 20
that attended a Commission meeting at the Senior Center regarding the ad hoc
committee itself. He also spoke to the time of day that meetings are held and what
population they can expect at evening meetings versus daytime meetings. Honohan
reiterated that he believes they need to start with a public meeting at the Senior Center.
Bern -Klug then asked if the evaluation of the Senior Center will affect the resources
evaluation, or if these are two completely separate items. Younker stated that his
understanding is that these are separate, at least in the initial analysis. There is overlap
between the two, he believes. Berg -Klug stated that she believes what is of highest
importance to everyone is resources and how they are going to be used. She strongly
suggested that they lay out how they plan to look at the resources and what a draft
report might look like, prior to getting public comment. She stated that she believes the
anxiety around these unknown changes is what needs to be addressed. Younker
further clarified what the Committee's charges are and how he believes they can
achieve their goals. The conversation continued on this topic, with Younker stating that
he believes they need several types of public comment. One is the general comment
type of session where people can comment on what they feel they need, what they like,
etc., just an overall comment session. Secondly, the subcommittee charged with
looking at resources would do just that — work with the City staff to see what resources
are available for senior services.
Fruin stated that staff can give the Committee some information on this, such as here is
what is spent on the Senior Center every year; here is what we spend on the support of
social services every year that senior service agencies could apply for. This would give
Members somewhat of a baseline understanding of what they are being asked to look
at. He added that looking at the financial aspects of this will not be part of the
Committee's charge. Bern -Klug noted that everyone on the Committee needs to be
privy to all of the information available, especially the items that the resource
subcommittee would have. Otherwise they stand the risk of disagreeing with the report
if they haven't all seen the same information. She believes this is the main part of their
charge and that all of them need to be part of the resource evaluation work. Honohan
stated that he would support this.
Younker agreed, stating that this is a very important part of their charge. However, a
concern he has with having the entire Committee tasked with assessing resources from
the beginning is for them to be able to make all of the meetings they will need, to get all
of the speakers in that they need, and still be able to present a report by December 1St
With the meeting rules they have to follow, this requires posting an agenda in a certain
amount of time, quorum issues, that type of thing. By having subcommittees, they can
be a bit more flexible in schedules as they go about getting the information they need
for their issues. Dohrmann asked if they were looking at subcommittees existing of
three people, and Younker agreed they were. Dobyns stated that he agrees with Bern -
Klug, that they need to do this in the best possible way in order to achieve their goals.
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
June 9, 2014
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Younker stated that he believes the role of the subcommittees will be to decide what the
entire Committee needs to hear or read. He added that members of these
subcommittees will be able to request items be placed on the agenda, such as needing
further information on an issue. Honohan stated that he agrees with Berg -Klug too, that
the evaluation of the Senior Center itself will be less of their task, that the resources
portion needs the most attention. He added that with the information they will be
receiving from Fruin and Hightshoe, they will be able to move forward with that part of
the resources aspect.
Bern -Klug stated that it appears to her that part of the agenda is that the Senior Center
is receiving the lion's share of City funding, and other agencies would like a piece of this
funding. She asked if this is correct, and if their charge is to take this funding and
distribute more of it to these other groups. Younker explained that the
recommendations are to include how current financial and physical resources can be
used to meet the needs of Iowa City seniors, that this is where the idea of a
subcommittee was developed. Bern -Klug stated that if this is the case, and that
finances are not going to be increasing, then she believes they are basically talking
about redistribution of the Center's share of City finances.
Fruin responded to Bern - Klug's comments by stating that as a group they are going to
figure out the needs as put forth in their charge. Several scenarios could occur, and he
gave examples — such as staying the course and keeping funding as is. Another could
be taking money from the Senior Center funding and diverting it to agencies serving
seniors. Yet another idea could be identifying an unmet need, but stating that the
Senior Center funding should not be sacrificed to meet it — that another resource should
pay this. Bern -Klug moved that the full Committee do the resource evaluation
portion of their charge, seconded by Honohan. Younker noted that they have a
motion and a second on the floor, and he called for further discussion. He stated that
he believes without a subcommittee that several individuals will need to be tasked with
gathering some of this information, and he questioned how this would be done.
Dohrmann stated that she likes the idea of two open forums at the Senior Center, with
one being specifically for the Senior Center and the other a general one. She
questioned how the Committee would then regroup in order to accomplish their tasks,
as some of this will need to take place outside of their regular meetings.
Honohan responded that information can be gathered by Members and then put into
their meeting packets for distribution to the entire Committee. He expressed his
concern with only three Members being on a subcommittee. Bern -Klug again spoke to
how they could best achieve this, and she noted that perhaps the best way to go about
this is to have the subcommittee doing the legwork, but having the resources report
come from the Committee as a whole. She believes this will help them come to a
consensus as a whole better for the final report. Her concern is that others who are not
a part of this evaluation will not know as much as others on the Committee, and she
feels it is important that every one of them knows the same information.
The discussion continued, with members discussing how they can handle getting this
work done, without a subcommittee, and how they can delegate particular tasks to
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
June 9, 2014
Page 11
Members, who can then work on obtaining the needed information outside of meeting
times. Cannon agreed, stating that she also believes they all should be getting the
same information from the same sources in real time together and then they can
discuss this as a group. If they find that they need further clarification, she stated that
she would be glad to volunteer in making sure they had their issue taken care of.
Younker asked if there was any further discussion as they have a pending motion on
the floor at this point. . Bern -Klug moved that the full Committee do the resource
evaluation portion of their charge, seconded by Honohan. Motion carried 7 -0.
Moving on to the issue of establishing a subcommittee to evaluate the Senior Center,
Younker asked for a motion. Honohan moved to establish a Senior Center
evaluation subcommittee, seconded by Dohrmann. Motion carried 7 -0.
Younker then asked Hightshoe if she would be able to gather her information prior to
the meeting on June 23rd. Honohan asked if Fruin would be able to provide his
information as well for that packet. Younker then moved on to the topic of public
comment, receiving public comment at the meeting on the 23rd. This would be a
broader -based issue forum. Dobyns asked if this is something that will be special,
outside of the normal public comment at each meeting. Younker spoke to this, stating
that instead of the general public comment time they would devote more time to a
broader public comment session. By that date they will have had several meetings
under their belt and he believes it makes sense to invite the public to comment on the
Committee at this juncture. Dobyns moved that this meeting be held in a neutral
site, such as Harvat Hall in City Hall, and that a subsequent meeting be held at the
Senior Center. The agenda would also include the information from Hightshoe
and Fruin. Dohrmann seconded the motion. Honohan stated that he didn't envision
the 23rd meeting to be one for public comment. He thought this was to be at a meeting
in July. He thought that comment at the next meeting would be on the information they
are going to be receiving. Younker stated that whether the meeting takes place on the
23rd or in July he doesn't believe matters. That he wants to get as much broad public
comment as possible, as soon as possible. Honohan reiterated that he still believes the
July date works best. Bern -Klug stated that she believes the public will be most
interested once they see the draft proposal. The sooner they can get this draft out to
the public and receive their comments, she believes the better off they will be.
Younker asked for some clarification from Karr about how much discussion is
appropriate in response to a public comment during that section of the agenda. Karr
asked if this is for subject matter or timeframe, and Younker stated subject matter. Karr
stated that they can have more than one public comment, that they can have it under
their financial reports, for example, and then more of an open period for items not on the
agenda. Honohan stated that as he recalls what Dilkes said, they are restricted in their
interactions with speakers on items not on the agenda. Karr noted that this is a policy
that Council does follow. Honohan then asked Dobyns what the purpose of his motion
is. Dobyns responded that the purpose is to have a meeting early on in their process
that would be considered the meeting for people who are interested in this matter to
attend. He believes this is an important meeting, and that such a meeting should be
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
June 9, 2014
Page 12
held on neutral grounds, such as City Hall. Dobyns moved that this meeting, June
23rd, be held in a neutral site, such as Harvat Hall in City Hall, and that a
subsequent meeting be held at the Senior Center. The agenda would also include
the information from Hightshoe and Fruin. Dohrmann seconded the motion.
Motion carried 7 -0.
Honohan then asked Karr if it would be possible to get the meeting packets out on
Thursday evening. She stated that the first priority will be to the Council agenda, and
that she can work on the Ad Hoc agenda. It was agreed that information for the
Thursday packet should be to Karr no later than noon on Thursday.
PENDING ITEMS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS:
None.
TENTATIVE THREE MONTH MEETING SCHEDULE: (first and third Monday of each month):
Younker asked if there are any conflicts with the schedule so far. Karr stated that there is one
for August 4th, and Honohan added that they now have two. Younker suggested they wait and
address this at a future meeting. Karr asked that others get any dates to her so that staff can
work up a new calendar. Dobyns stated that he has been told he will be starting clinics in
September on Monday afternoons, and suggested meeting Monday mornings. The September
schedule will be discussed at the June 23r meeting. Members confirmed the start time of 3:30
for all meetings.
Tentative meeting times were discussed:
June 23
July 7
July 21
August 4
August 18
ADJOURNMENT:
Honohan moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:10 P.M., seconded by Bern -Klug. Motion
carried 7 -0.
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
June 9, 2014
Page 13
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2014
Key.
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
- -- = Not a Member at this time
TERM
Q
Q
o
CD
NAME
EXP.
o
C"
w
o
m
1211114
X
X
X
Joe
Younker
Jay
12/1/14
X
X
X
Honohan
Mercedes
1211/14
X
X
X
Bern -Klug
Hiram
12/1/14
X
X
X
Richard
Webber
Ellen
12/1/14
X
X
X
Cannon
Jane
12/1114
X
X
X
Dohrmann
Rick
1211/14
X
X
X
Dobyns
Key.
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
- -- = Not a Member at this time
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
June 23, 2014
Page 1
MINUTES FINAL
AD HOC SENIOR SERVICES COMMITTEE
JUNE 23, 2014 — 3:30 P.M.
HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
Members Present: Joe Younker (Chair), Jay Honohan, Rick Dobyns, Jane Dohrmann,
Mercedes Bern -Klug, Ellen Cannon, Hiram Rick Webber
Staff Present: Fruin, Karr
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council
action):
None
CALL TO ORDER:
Chairperson Younker called the meeting to order at 3:30 P.M.
2b(2)
CONSIDER MOTION ADOPTING CONSENT CALENDAR AS PRESENTED OR AMENDED:
a. Minutes of the Meeting on 06/09/14 — Honohan noted that the minutes are
excellent, but that he did not see any mention of Mike Moran's comment about space
availability being `slim and none' in the Park District facilities, under Item C, paragraph 3.
He added that he would like to move to include this in the minutes. Karr also noted
some corrections — page 1, A, Library — it should be `Kara' not `Karen,' and on page 8,
`plague' should be `plaque.'
b. Correspondence — (1) Charlotte Walker: Part 1 — SEATS new application and
instructions; (2) Asst. City Manager Fruin: City Council Strategic Plan; (3) Library Dir.
Craig: Library Room Availability & Technology Support for Seniors
Honohan moved to accept the Consent Calendar as amended; seconded by Cannon.
Motion carried 7 -0.
REPORT ON CITY SUPPORT AND FUNDING OF SERVICES FOR SENIORS:
Fruin addressed Members regarding the funding of the various operations that were presented
at the previous meeting; and noted an overview of this information was included in their meeting
packet. Fruin noted that many of the services of the Library, Parks and Rec, and Transportation
are not just for seniors, so drawing out just senior services is a bit difficult. He then reviewed
information provided in the meeting packet, beginning with the Assistance to Social Service
Agencies which is done primarily through the Aid to Agency process. Again, Fruin noted that
many of these agencies do not serve just the senior population. He then briefly explained the
Aid to Agency process, noting that there is both federal and local funding available for this
program. However, the amounts available have been either stagnant or declining in recent
years, according to Fruin. He stated that two of the agencies listed have been highlighted, as
they serve the senior population — Elder Services and Pathways Adult Health Center.
Fruin referenced the chart provided that mentions City STEPS, and explained that City STEPS
is the five -year plan that the City must compile in order to receive federal funds. This plan
basically prioritizes the City's needs, laying out where this funding will be going. Fruin noted
that `senior services' has a medium priority on this chart. He continued to explain how these
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
June 23, 2014
Page 2
priorities are set, noting that there are no `low' priorities funded, and that the majority of funding
goes to 'high' priority agencies. Cannon noted that one of the 'high' priority areas is mental
health services, and she questioned if services to people with dementia or cognitive impairment
are included in this area of service. Fruin responded that the scope of services provided is
basically up to the agencies to decide, but that he can look into this further to see how dementia
services, for example, would be classified.
Honohan asked Fruin to clarify his comment about a resolution established by the Council
setting these priorities. Fruin noted that there is a resolution that instructs the Housing and
Community Development Commission on how they should rank applications for funding.
Honohan then asked when the current plan was adopted by the Council, and Fruin stated that
the current City STEPS covers the five -year period from 2011 to 2015. A new five -year plan is
in the works, according to Fruin, with public forums being held for comments. Younker then
asked for some clarification on the 'high' priority items and whether they are funded at the level
requested. Fruin stated that this decision is basically up to the HCDC. HCDC reviews the
applications and makes their decisions based on the priority level assigned. Fruin noted that
not all of the `high' priorities were funded at their requested levels.
Fruin then moved on to the capital requests, noting that this is a competitive process they go
through each year for funding. The two areas that have been focused on are 'housing' and
'public facilities.' He stated that in the past three years there has been only one request for an
exclusive senior housing development — Three Diamond Development — who requested
$450,000 in FY14. Fruin stated that this funding was not granted, as the developer was unable
to secure the State funding that they needed in order to make this project happen. In the past,
however, funds have been granted for requests for senior housing developments. These
include Lexington Senior Housing, Concord Terrace Senior Housing, and Regency Heights
Senior Housing. Honohan noted that Regency Heights, which received $150,000, supposedly
does not have handicap - accessible doors. He questioned if this is the time to bring this issue
up, but that the City should look into this, particularly since this development received funds
from the City. Fruin noted that they can look into this matter, and he added that this funding
was made available back in 1999.
Continuing, Fruin moved on to the Senior Center and their budget information, which was
provided in the meeting packet as well. He noted that what he tried to do in this handout is
provide enough detail without being overwhelming, to help the Members better understand the
budget. Looking at the revenue section, Fruin noted that this will show everything except for the
general fund contribution. What is shown is the County grant received, income from
memberships, donations received, collections of parking fees and building rent, locker rent, etc.
On the expense side, Fruin noted that the majority of dollars are dedicated to staffing needs,
which is typical of most departments. Moving on to the 'net difference' then, Fruin noted that
this is essentially the general fund contribution portion. FY14 shows a general fund subsidy of
almost $687,000. At this point Fruin pointed out that Members should read through the second
footnote here. He added that the City takes a fairly conservative approach to budgeting and
tends to overestimate expenses. He believes this will be the case this year with the Senior
Center. Another footnote of importance, according to Fruin, is that capiol or large -scale /
improvements would not be shown in this budget. Such projects of this size would have a mL
separate budget. There are no such renovation projects in the works, according to Fruin, other
than some painting and minor floor replacement.
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
June 23, 2014
Page 3
Fruin then went to Parking and Transit, noting that both have large budgets, but if you boil it
down to programs just for seniors, there are only two programs — Senior Center parking and the
senior off -peak bus pass. Looking at the Senior Center parking program, Fruin explained the
dollar amount shown for parking reflects Senior Center users and visitors. He also explained
the bus pass program and the discount that is received. At this point, Chair Younker stated that
he would like to let Members ask questions of Fruin, and then open it up for public comment.
Honohan asked Fruin about the salaries of the employees at the Center and if they aren't part of
the union contract. Fruin responded that he would assume they are.
The Chair announced public comment would be received at this time. Mary Gutmann, 1717
Mackinaw Dr., shared her experience with the Senior Center since moving to Iowa City.
Gutmann touted the wonderful programs offered at the Center, and how having all of these
offerings under one roof has made attending programs much easier.
Cheryll Clamon, 1023 Village Green Blvd., Senior Center member, noted that she is also a
member of the Housing and Community Development Commission. She stated that she is very
frustrated with the `medium' priority level given senior services in the City STEPS plan. She
urged the Committee to consider this as they work through their recommendations.
Mary Wahl shared with the Committee her experiences with Iowa City, stating that Iowa City is a
wonderful place to live due to all of the activities that take place — the Arts Fest, the Jazz Fest,
the City of Literature, and the Senior Center. She reminded everyone that Iowa City's Senior
Center is a national model for senior centers all over the country.
Michael Lensing, a former Senior Center Commission member and a current Friends of the
Center member, gave a brief update on the Friends Foundation, stating that the endowment
account, as of May 31, 2014, is at $673,726, and the charitable giving account has a balance of
$12,533. They also maintain a checking account, with a current balance of $7,078. Lensing
continued, stating that each year the Center receives somewhere between $20,000 and
$30,000 from the Community Foundation of Johnson County. This money goes towards the
Center's operational budget. He shared some of the wonderful things that the Friends
Foundation has been able to fund for the Center, such as new computers, a scanner, materials
for a gardening project, diversity training, and various programming needs. Lensing noted that
the Center offers a wealth of programming for seniors and he hopes that one day he can spend
more time there himself.
Mary Gravitt asked the Committee what would happen to the Senior Center if they did not all
show up to protest. She stated she feels seniors are the 'disposable generation.'; and stated
that if they are going to be having meetings like this, they should be televised as not everyone
can come in person. Gravitt continued, stating that the Senior Center is an integral part of the
community, as is the senior population and all those it serves.
Lorraine Dorfman, 314 Magowan Ave., stated that she serves as Chair of the Program
Committee at the Center and also that she is a gerontologist who was the former Director of the
University's Inter - Disciplinary Aging Studies Program. She noted that she has taught a program
for several years called "Programs and Services for Aging Adults," where she tries to educate
students about the value of the full -range of services for the elderly population. Dorfman
continued, stating that she believes the Senior Center performs its function very well in
addressing the social, intellectual, and physical needs of seniors. The issue of diversity was
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
June 23, 2014
Page 4
noted next, with Dorfman stating that the Center addresses this issue by offering a scholarship
program for membership to those with lower incomes.
Ed Rolenc of Iowa City stated that he is concerned with this Committee's formation and that he
finally decided to speak up about the importance of the Senior Center in his life. Rolenc shared
his and his wife's experiences with the Center, especially after both were diagnosed with
cancer. Over the past several years, Rolenc stated that he has attended classes in writing, art,
music, philosophy, religion, literature, astronomy, biology, history, forensics, and anthropology,
to name a few. A teacher by profession, Rolenc stated the importance of life -long learning and
the many opportunities to do so at the Senior Center. Since his wife's death, he himself has
begun teaching again — at the Center.
June Braverman asked the Committee if it has a base figure for the number of senior citizens in
the area to be served, and what age parameters and demographics are utilized as
determinants. She stated that there appear to be differences in the age parameters for senior
hood in the available data, and that some clarification might be necessary. She spoke to the
Census data available and other population counts for Iowa City and the surrounding areas.
She urged the Committee to look at the true number of seniors needing services.
Helen McClean, a resident of Ecumenical Towers, spoke to the value of the many volunteers
and the time they give to teach classes, serve on boards, etc., and how much this saves the
City. She shared a story of a frail, elderly gentleman at the Center, singing "Rock Around the
Clock," and how it sparked a conversation about the original singer of this song. Honohan
spoke up at this point, noting that last year there were 24,300 hours of volunteers at the Senior
Center. This would have amounted to approximately $508,599 in value if these volunteers had
been paid $20 an hour. Younker asked Honohan where he obtained this information, and
Honohan responded that it came from the Center itself.
Joan McMillan of North Liberty addressed the Committee about her concerns regarding cuts to
the SEATS funding. She stated that without SEATS, many people will be unable to attend the
Center. She believes they need to take a look at how funds are distributed and make sure they
are equally divided among the services so desperately needed.
Kathy Mitchell, 722 Iowa Ave., Senior Center Commission Member and Member of the Senior
Steering Council, stated that since 1981 the Senior Center has been a leader of services for the
elderly, complementing the social services network in the Iowa City /Johnson County area.
Mitchell noted the variety of first -class services offered at the Center. She noted that
transportation has been noted as a problem for seniors coming to the Center. As has been
noted previously, Mitchell stated that a dedicated bus stop at the Senior Center, on Washington
Street, would be much appreciated. She explained how the bus stops close by can still be quite
arduous for some of their members to maneuver, especially in poor weather.
Bob Wiley, Box 147 (Solon), Senior Center Television, stated that they are one of the outreach
programs at the Center, where they try to bring events at the Center to the homebound
members.
Louise Young, 320 E. Washington St., Ecumenical Towers resident, stated that she has been
active at the Center for many years, serving on such committees as the Task Force on Aging.
She also spoke to the Center's television productions, noting that they are the only senior center
in the country that has its own television station. Young also spoke to the need for a designated
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
June 23, 2014
Page 5
crosswalk near the Senior Center and Ecumenical Towers, on Washington Street. She stated
that they need to do everything they can to keep the Senior Center very accessible to everyone.
Young also noted that the Senior Center does more than just work with seniors. They work with
many other age groups, such as in the upcoming chorus concert at the Englert Theater.
Larry Rogers, 320 E. Washington St., stated that he moved to Iowa City from Minneapolis and
was fortunate enough to get into Ecumenical Towers when he did. He shared his delight in
having the Senior Center so close to where he lives, adding that he is able to get all of the
services he needs without going anywhere else. Rogers stated that he belongs to the Voices of
Experience group at the Center and enjoys being able to sing and do things. He is also the
Coordinator of the GLBT Movie Series, where he shows movies to those in the GLBT
community. Rogers then spoke about Elder Services and their meal program that he enjoys.
He shared his disappointment at the cuts to Sunday meal service, reportedly due to budget cuts
at Elder Services. Rogers then asked a question of the Committee — if diversification is so
great, what happened to the one -room schoolhouses.
Jeneva Ford, 978 22nd Ave. (Coralville), noted that once she decided to settle down after some
years of traveling, her doctor recommended the Senior Center to her. She stated that she
enjoys having a social circle once again and finding new friendships with people who have
similar interests. Ford stated that as secretary for the Steering Committee, she has heard each
month reports from each of the committees on new ideas for programming at the Center, all
from volunteers in the community wanting to share something with the Senior Center. She
spoke to the importance of the Center and its integral part in making the Iowa City area
nationally known. Ford also noted that with Iowa City being a college town and having so many
things geared towards that population, it's really nice to have the Senior Center geared towards
the older population.
Collin Kerstetter, 2388 Russell Dr., an independent contractor, teaches fitness to older adults.
She added that she does this at various locations around town, with ten classes being taught at
the Senior Center. She then pays a percentage of what she makes to the Center, and has done
this for 12 years now. Kerstetter noted the difficulties in trying to find space around town to hold
such fitness classes and the need for guaranteed space. She reiterated what others have said
about the importance of having a place, like the Senior Center, in which to offer such
programming.
Ina Loewenberg of Iowa City stated that she has been in Kerstetter's classes for 12 years and
has been seen in Senior Center commercials lifting weights. She also spoke about her tai chi
classes at the Center, noting that she now lives downtown, in part because she was driving to
the Center several times a day. Now she can walk to the Center. Speaking to funding issues,
she noted that the Center has the hardest working, leanest staff imaginable.
Mary Means, 1708 Hollywood Blvd, stated that her father, who recently passed, was active at
the Senior Center for 20 years or more. She added that the Center is much more than a
building and she shared memories of joining her parents there. The Senior Center was and is a
large part of her family's life. She urged the Committee to really look at the Senior Center and
to find ways to enhance it even more. Means noted that she has heard the Center might be
closed and used for City offices. She added that there are several other options out there that
the Senior Center really needs to be left as it is.
Nancy Olthoff, 2129 Slagle Dr., spoke to what the Senior Center means to Iowa City. She noted
that the members are the ambassadors of the Center, by going out and telling everyone what a
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
June 23, 2014
Page 6
great place Iowa City is to live — because of the access to the Senior Center. She noted that
other communities are jealous of the Senior Center and wish they had such a place in their
towns. She noted that the New Horizons Band was invited to be at the Iowa Band Masters
Association in May, where they represented not only the Center but Iowa City as well.
Ed Fisher of University Heights spoke to the economics of having the Senior Center downtown.
He stated that seniors add to the economy and provide support to the downtown businesses, as
well.
Elsie Gauley Vega spoke about her enjoyment living next to the Senior Center in the
Ecumenical Towers. She attends many of the events and classes offered at the Center. She
also spoke about a group from Sudan that they hosted and how enjoyable the program was.
Vega also spoke about the high ranking the Center has throughout the country, reminding the
Committee how proud they are of this, and also for the international recognition they have
received, as well.
Valerie Appleton, 320 E. Washington St., stated that she just wanted to `ditto' what everyone
has said so far this evening, bringing a laugh to the crowd.
Beth Clopton, 1108 5th Ave., shared her experiences with the Senior Center, stating that it really
gave her 'a life' when she decided to join. She has made many friendships there and wishes
her health would allow more participation. She too sings with the Voices of Experience group.
She reiterated the sentiment of 'don't mess with the Senior Center,' but rather add to it, make it
even stronger.
Rose Hanson, 320 E. Washington St., stated she moved to Iowa City upon retirement and now
she is not only in love with the Senior Center and Iowa City, but that she is in love with the
whole state of Iowa. She also spoke about the V.A. Hospital located in Iowa City, adding that
she volunteers there three days a week. The Chair closed the public comment and thanked
everyone for their comments.
Dobyns moved to accept correspondence from Mary Gutmann and June Braverman,
seconded by Honohan. Motion carried 7 -0.
SELECTION OF MEMBERS FOR SENIOR CENTER EVALUATION SUBCOMMITTEE:
Younker stated that at the last meeting Members decided to form this subcommittee, and asked
if there were any nominations for individuals to serve on this subcommittee. Honohan
nominated Mercedes Bern -Klug, seconded by Webber. Dohrmann nominated Jay
Honohan, seconded by Bern -Klug. Cannon nominated Hiram Richard Webber, seconded
by Honohan. Honohan then made the motion to accept the slate as nominated,
seconded by Cannon. Motion carried 7 -0. Younker reiterated that one of the charges of the
Committee is to evaluate the Senior Center, and this subcommittee will complete that portion of
the charge.
DISCUSSION OF METHOD FOR ASSESSING THE USE OF FINANCIAL AND PHYSICAL
RESOURCES:
Younker noted that another task of the Committee is to do an assessment of the financial and
physical resources that are allocated to senior services. At the last meeting the Committee
opted to not pass this on to a subcommittee, but that rather agreed that the Committee as a
whole would take part in this portion. He noted a memo in the packet from himself and the Vice
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
June 23, 2014
Page 7
Chair on how they might best proceed with this assessment. The memo lays out five tasks — to
review the inclusive and sustainable values set forth in the City's strategic plan; to assess
current programming offered to seniors by the City; to identify current financial and physical
resources that are available; to identify and assess the services that other providers offer in the
community, such as Elder Services, Pathways, Shelter House, Johnson County Livable
Community, and the Consultation of Religious Communities. Finally, to consider the needs of
specific segments of the senior population as recommendations are formed. Younker stated
that they are asking for volunteers from the committee to be the contact member for these
service providers mentioned. They will be asked to make some initial contact with these
organizations to find out what services they are providing, to gather whatever information they
can — such as brochures or handouts, and to share this with the Committee as a whole.
Members volunteered as follows:
Berg -Klug - Pathways
Dohrmann - Consultation of Religious Communities
Dohrmann - Elder Services
Honohan - Shelter House
Cannon - Johnson County Livable Communities (added Heritage Agency on Aging later)
Younker stated that the hope is to get this portion going right away and he asked that these
Members try to bring a report to the next meeting. At that point the Committee can decide what
further information they want from these agencies. Younker stated that he would also like to
hear ideas from Members at the next meeting on other agencies they might need to make
contact with.
Bob Welsh, 84 Penfro Dr., spoke and suggested that another agency to contact would be the
Heritage Area Agency on Aging. He explained that this is a channel through which federal
funds are made available for services for seniors. Cannon volunteered to be the contact person
for this agency.
DISCUSSION OF PROPOSED TIMELINE FOR COMPLETING THE COMMITTEE'S
CHARGES:
Younker stated that he and the Vice Chair met to discuss this and he reviewed a proposed
timeline distributed in the packet with Members, with December 1St as the deadline for
presenting recommendations to the Council. Younker asked if there was any discussion
regarding this. Honohan stated that the schedule looks a bit ambitious to him, and noted the
December 1 deadline established by Council. Dobyns stated that there has been some
discussion about ad hoc committees at the Council level, versus regular boards and
commissions, which typically have fairly long terms. He stated that keeping things tight will
keep things moving. Younker added that by putting a timeline down on paper it helps to give
them something to shoot for.
Honohan stated Dobyns had motioned at the last meeting to have today's meeting on neutral
ground and the next meeting at the Senior Center. Honohan stated he believes that today's
meeting covered this matter and questioned a continued need for the next agenda location.
Majority agreed that they no longer need to do this.
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
June 23, 2014
Page 8
PUBLIC DISCUSSION (ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA):
Bob Welsh, 84 Penfro Dr., stated that he has heard the City intends to move some of their
offices into the Senior Center. He added that he was able to stop this same thing some 20
years ago when he pointed out the need for repayment of some of the federal funds used to
secure the Center. Secondly, Welsh spoke to parking. He stated that the City made a wise
move when it went to 1 -hour free parking. He suggested that this would be even better if the
City would add 15 to 20 minutes to this, so that a person attending an hour -long class could do
so for free. Finally, Welsh stated that he believes it would be helpful for the Committee to look
at various models of other senior centers. The key is inter - governmental cooperation. He
spoke to the various models that could be used, suggesting that the first model would provide
the maximum service with the least administrative costs. The second model, according to
Welsh, is the most practical and would result in the most bang- for - the - bucks. It would also have
the least negative impact on employees and agencies.
Louise Young, 320 E. Washington St., asked for clarification of the second model mentioned by
Welsh. She stated that she needs to understand more clearly what the Center is and is not
allowed to do. Younker explained that they are not at a point where they can respond to her
questions. She noted that she will speak with Welsh directly then. Honohan asked if they could
request a copy of what Welsh is referring to. Karr noted that they could do this, and would add
to the next packet.
Larry Rogers, 320 E. Washington St., asked who this Committee is representing. Younker
responded that the committee was formed through a resolution adopted by the Iowa City City
Council, and that they are charged with evaluating the Senior Center, assessing physical and
financial resources that are allocated to seniors, and identifying impediments to accessing these
services. Rogers also questioned the possibilities of moving services to outlying areas, such as
Coralville and North Liberty, noting that the Center is centrally located and easy for people to
access.
Jody Wiley, Box 147 (Solon), stated that she believes the Senior Center is very important and
she volunteers there 11 hours a week, believing that the drive from Solon is very much worth it.
She added that she believes Johnson County should increase their funding to the Center.
Louise Young, 320 E. Washington St., stated that this is the Johnson County Senior Center —
not just Iowa City.
PENDING ITEMS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS:
Younker noted that Karr is keeping a list of pending items for them, and Members can add to
this at any time. Several of the items have been addressed and can be updated, according to
Younker.
TENTATIVE THREE MONTH MEETING SCHEDULE (first and third Monday of each month):
Younker stated that they need to spend some time reviewing their upcoming schedule,
especially for September. Also noted, August 4th has three conflicts at this point. Younker
asked for the committee's choice on what to do. Karr suggested a different day of the week
might be considered. After some discussion, Members decided to the following schedule:
July 7
July 21
August 4 — cancel meeting; move to July 30
August 18
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
June 23, 2014
Page 9
and starting with the September meetings, the schedule will move to the first and third
Wednesdays at 3:30 P.M.
ADJOURNMENT:
Bern -Klug stated that she would like to clarify something heard during today's comments. There
were comments made about another use of the Senior Center building. She stated that this is
completely outside the realm of her experiences and she does not see this being part of their
charge — that someone else is wanting to use that building. Fruin agreed, stating that there are
no plans for alternative uses, including City offices or anything like that.
Honohan moved to adjourn the meeting at 5:40 P.M., seconded by Dohrmann. Motion
carried 7 -0.
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
June 23, 2014
Page 10
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2014
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
- -- = Not a Member at this time
TERM
o
0
0
0
Q"
w
0)
0)
NAME
EXP.
w
j
m
0
m
iN
w
j
12/1/14
X
X
X
X
Joe
Younker
Jay
12/1/14
X
X
X
X
Honohan
Mercedes
12/1/14
X
X
X
X
Bern -Klug
Hiram
12/1/14
X
X
X
X
Richard
Webber
Ellen
12/1/14
X
X
X
X
Cannon
Jane
12/1/14
X
X
X
X
Dohrmann
Rick
12/1/14
X
X
X
X
Dobyns
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
- -- = Not a Member at this time
Charter Review Commission
June 10, 2014
Page 1
MINUTES
CHARTER REVIEW COMMISSION
JUNE 10, 2014 — 7:30 A. M.
HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
FINAL
Members Present: Steve Atkins, Andy Chappell, Karrie Craig, Karen Kubby, Mark Schantz,
Melvin Shaw, Anna Moyers Stone, Adam Sullivan, Dee Vanderhoef
Staff Present: Eleanor Dilkes, Marian Karr
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council
action):
None
CONSIDER MOTION ADOPTING CONSENT CALENDAR AS PRESENTED OR AMENDED:
2b(3)
a. Minutes of the Meeting on 05/27114 — Chairperson Chappell asked if there
were any issues with the minutes. Chappell noted that he is questioning what is
stated on the second page of the minutes, second paragraph from the bottom,
where Karr was responding to a question regarding council pay. Karr noted that
this is how she responded, even though it was incorrect; and correct information
was provided in this week's packet. Vanderhoef then brought up an issue on the
same page, bottom paragraph, where she was talking about the amount of time
she herself spent on council issues. The 40 -hour minimum was her personal
minimum, not necessarily what other councilors should do. Karr noted that she
can make this clearer by adding, 'From her perspective..." or "From her
experience." Vanderhoef agreed to this. Kubby moved to accept the minutes
of the 5/27/14 meeting as amended, seconded by Vanderhoef. Motion
carried 9 -0.
REPORTS FROM MEMBERS AND STAFF:
Sullivan noted that he had a conversation over the weekend with some of the organizers
regarding cameras and drones. They had talked to Sullivan about the logistical issues with
having to get qualified electors on their petitions. He recommended that they write a letter to the
Charter Commission to share their thoughts.
Karr stated a correction to the salaries mentioned at the last meeting was distributed; and
additional information distributed gives some background history on the salaries, as well the
process. Dilkes noted the email provided by Commission Member Kubby, received from
Caroline Dieterle, and stated she found the case referenced but has not had a chance to review
it yet.
REVIEW CHARTER:
a. Specific Sections to be Addressed:
Preamble — Chappell noted that in this section they have Schantz's
proposal still to review.
Definitions — Chappell noted that they are still working on clarifying this
section.
Charter Review Commission
June 10, 2014
Page 2
Article II — Chappell then started the review where they left off, with
compensation. He noted the information received from Karr on this
subject. Atkins asked why they have a salary for council. Chappell
stated that it is basically a stipend for Members, one that after some
discussion, this Commission thought the amount might need to be raised.
Sullivan added that the concern was that those in the community who do
not have very lucrative careers might not be able to run for a council seat
due to the huge time commitment and low compensation. Financially it
would be a hardship for many people. Stone stated that her take on the
conversation was that the compensation be enough that most anyone
could run for council, but that the amount would not be so much that
someone would try to make it their primary job. Kubby added that they
need to find that `sweet spot.' Chappell agreed, stating that there does
need to be some type of compensation for missed work, etc. Stone noted
that council itself sets the ordinance for their compensation. She
questioned if the Charter Review Commission should come up with
another mechanism for this, so that the council does not set their own
compensation. Members continued to discuss this issue, agreeing that
the amount itself should not be in the Charter, but that a formula or
something to that effect could be set forth here. Karr noted that State law
prohibits councilors from giving themselves a raise — it goes to the next
council in two years. Craig stated that to her it appears the current
mechanism is working. She questioned if the Charter is the method,
actually, to increase engagement in government.
Section 2.06 — Vanderhoef spoke to this section, stating that after the last
meeting she gave some thought to the topic of the mayor and how many
terms this position should have. She presented the idea that there be no
more than two consecutive terms for a mayor. This would open up the
position more and might help alleviate some of the tensions that can arise
within the council itself. Kubby noted that this might help alleviate the
pressure that can build politically. Members continued to discuss this
issue, with Schantz stating that at some point they need to decide if the
selection of the mayor will remain with the other councilors or go to the
people. Chappell noted that they can have further discussion at any time
on these types of issues. He would like to get through the Charter once
and then they can return to those items that need further discussion.
Section 2.07 — Shaw spoke to Section 1.01 and how he believes it relates
to this section — the City has all powers either granted or necessary --
questioning a power that isn't expressly granted. He also questioned if
these two sections shouldn't reference the ordinances that are
established by the City. Schantz noted that the Preamble grants powers
to the City. Dilkes noted that the wording is from State law and she then
touched on what Section 1.01 is saying, as well as Section 2.07.
Chappell spoke to this, noting that his concern would be using
"necessary" in this wording. He then asked if there was consensus to
tentatively approve this section. Members continued to discuss their
views on the use of the word `powers' in this and other sections. Dilkes
read what the State code says, noting that this section of the Charter
Charter Review Commission
June 10, 2014
Page 3
comes from the State code itself. Members did agree to tentatively
approve this section of the Charter.
Section 2.08 — Kubby read Section 2.08 to begin the discussion. She
asked if these positions are typically appointed by the councils in other
Iowa towns. Dilkes responded that in Davenport, for example, the city
attorney works for the city manager. She added that the State code
requires that a city clerk be appointed. Atkins questioned item D, if the
council actually appoints all members of City boards. Dilkes noted that
State law dictates the composition of certain boards and commissions.
Members continued to discuss this issue, with tentative approval of this
section being made.
Section 2.09 — Schantz then read this section prior to the Commission's
discussion. Atkins asked if there were any legal standards that lay out
how records must be kept. Karr responded that in many cases there are.
Schantz noted that the Public Records law would apply here. Sullivan
asked if there is something elsewhere about boards and commission
recordkeeping standards. Karr stated that this is not included in the
Charter as it deals with the council. The bylaws and policies of the
boards and commissions are where you would find this information.
Tentative approval was reached on this section, as well.
Section 2.10 — Sullivan read the next section. Members agreed that there
was nothing they could change here as it is dictated by State law.
Tentative approval was reached.
Section 2.11 — Shaw read Section 2.11 prior to discussion. Dilkes noted
for the Commission's information that the only time you do not say 'all
members of the council is seven' is when there is an abstention for a
conflict of interest. She gave an example of how this could play out, and
she also responded to Members' questions concerning these types of
issues. Schantz asked if State law requires super majority votes for any
particular issues the council votes on. Dilkes responded that it does, and
she gave an example of when there is a protest on a zoning decision.
She then responded to Members' questions, further clarifying what this
section is setting forth. Members agreed to tentative approval of Section
2.11 after some further discussion.
Chappell asked that Article III be added to the next meeting agenda so
that they can begin discussion of it.
b. Commission Discussion of Other Sections (if time allows):
None
DISCUSSION OF PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT:
Chappell discussed the tentative forum schedule, noting that the original date (June 16th) will not
work. He added that with everyone's schedule, they have come up with either an August or
September date. Karr added that this would give them plenty of time to get through their initial
Charter Review Commission
June 10, 2014
Page 4
review of the Charter, and to have plenty of time to get the word out about the public forum.
Kubby added that August might not be a good idea as so many community members are out of
town then. Looking at September, Members discussed what date might work for everyone.
Chappell suggested they take an evening meeting and make it the public forum. After some
discussion, September 23 was agreed to as a tentative public forum date. Chappell asked that
everyone come to the next meeting with their schedules so they can then confirm this date.
Kubby stated that she still believes they need to have a more conversational format at one of
their public forums.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
None.
TENTATIVE THREE -MONTH MEETING SCHEDULE (Second & fourth Tuesday of each
month):
June 24
July 8
July 22 — Schantz noted that he will be gone this date.
August 12
August 26
September 9
September 23 — corrected date; tentative public forum.
Karr asked Members to let her know if their schedules change, and she will alert the chair of
possible scheduling conflicts.
ADJOURNMENT:
Kubby moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:45 A.M., seconded by Sullivan. Motion carried
9 -0.
Charter Review Commission
June 10, 2014
Page 5
Charter Review Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2014
Key.
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
- -- = Not a Member at this time
TERM
o
0
0
0
0
NAME
EXP.
w
o
?
Ab
06
4/1115
X
X
O/
X
Steve
E
Atkins
Andy
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
Chappell
Karrie
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
Craig
Karen
4/1/15
O
X
X
X
Kubby
Mark
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
Schantz
Melvin
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
Shaw
Anna
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
Moyer
Stone
Adam
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
Sullivan
Dee
4/1115
X
X
X
X
Vanderhoef
Key.
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
- -- = Not a Member at this time
2b(4)
MINUTES APPROVED
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
MAY 8, 2014
EMMA HARVAT HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Thomas Agran, Esther Baker, Gosia Clore, Kate Corcoran, Frank
Durham, Andy Litton, Pam Michaud, Ben Sandell, Ginalie Swaim
MEMBERS ABSENT: Kent Ackerson, Frank Wagner
STAFF PRESENT: Bob Miklo
OTHERS PRESENT: Jeff Schabilion
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (become effective only after separate Council action)
None.
CALL TO ORDER: Swaim called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA:
There was none.
CERTIFICATES OF APPROPRIATENESS:
431 Rundell Street
Miklo explained that this is a contributing property built by Howard Moffitt in the Longfellow
Historic District. He said there are additions that were constructed before this became a historic
district. He showed photographs of several views of the house. He said the proposal is to add a
cupola to the area of the house that he indicated in the photographs. He said in staffs opinion
these recent additions to the house are in the spirit of Moffitt and his use of salvaged material.
He said staff feels that additional ornamentation on the roof follows that character, and staff is
recommending approval.
Michaud said this looks great to her but knows that it isn't architecturally unified.
Swaim said it's a delightful and imaginative house.
Jeff Schabilion of 431 Rundell Street said when he purchased the house the front and sides
were attractive in detail but the back was a blank slate and not in keeping with the front, which
was what encouraged him to build the additions to the back before the area was made a historic
district. He said he thinks the addition of the smaller cupola will harmonize with the larger one.
He said the height of the smaller cupola is about seven feet.
MOTION: Corcoran moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project at
431 Rundell Street, as presented in the application. Agran seconded the motion. The
motion carried on a vote of 9 -0 ( Ackerson and Wagner absent).
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
May 8, 2014
Page 2 of 7
Michaud said that she had to leave early but she wanted to discuss the Unitarian Church. The
Commission agreed to put it on the agenda for its next meeting.
926 Bowery Street
Miklo said this one -story early bungalow is in the Summit Street Historic District. He said the
proposal is to change some of the basement windows into egress windows. He said the
applicant has agreed to use a material in the window wells similar to the foundation, which
would be concrete, and then dress the top portion with stone. Miklo said the windows would be
wood aluminum clad and would meet the guidelines by having divided lites similar to the main
windows on the house and the windows that were removed in the basement. He said staff finds
that this meets the guidelines with stipulations as outlined in the staff report.
MOTION: Durham moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project at 926
Bowery Street, as presented in the application with revisions as described in the staff
report. Corcoran seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 9 -0 (Ackerson
and Wagner absent).
At this point, Michaud left the meeting.
219 N. Gilbert Street
Miklo said that this property is a local landmark. He said the proposal is to put a projecting, or
flag, sign at the front entrance. He explained how it would be mounted and showed where it
would be located. He said there is a decorative panel on the entry, and staff recommends that
the mounting bracket be designed so it doesn't obscure that panel. He said the applicant has
agreed to that, and staff recommends approval of the sign.
MOTION: Durham moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for a front entrance
sign at 219 N. Gilbert Street, as presented in the application with minor revision of upper
attachment plate dimensions per staff comments. Litton seconded the motion. The
motion carried on a vote of 8 -0 ( Ackerson, Michaud and Waqner absent).
518 Bowery Street
Miklo said this property was recently added as a local landmark as well as a National Register
property given its unique storefront design. He said the proposal is to put a sign on the front of
the property. He said the sign would be of modern material but would look like painted wood. He
said staff recommends approval.
MOTION: Baker moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project at 518
Bowery Street, as presented in the application. Agran seconded the motion. The motion
carried on a vote of 8 -0 ( Ackerson. Michaud and Waaner absent).
1111 E. Burlinaton Street
Miklo said the property is in the College Hill Conservation District, was originally 1 -1/2 stories
and was added onto at least twice. He said the proposal is to replace the front door with a
fiberglass, paintable door that meets the historic preservation guidelines. He pointed out a
window on the second floor would become egress and where there would be a new window in
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
May 8, 2014
Page 3 of 7
the kitchen. He said staff is recommending approval with stipulations as outlined in the staff
report.
Swaim asked if the kitchen window will have a frame that will show. Miklo said staff hopes they
are able to do that but it's not been determined whether it can have a frame or the applicant will
replace it in the existing frame.
MOTION: Agran moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project at 1111
E. Burlington Street, as presented in the application with conditions as described in the
staff report. Baker seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8 -0 ( Ackerson,
Michaud and Wagner absent).
1116 E. Burlington Street
Miklo said the proposal is to rebuild the back porch as a heated room and finish it as a
bathroom /laundry room. He pointed out where a window would be added for the kitchen. He
said staff is recommending approval with stipulations noted in the staff report.
MOTION: Baker moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project at 1116
E. Burlington Street, as presented in the application with conditions as described in the
staff report. Durham seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8 -0
(Ackerson, Michaud and Wagner absent).
Swaim noted that the speed with which the Commission went through six applications is based
on the thorough reports that staff and Chery Peterson put together as well as a lot of behind the
scenes work with the applicants.
REPORT ON CERTIFICATES ISSUED BY CHAIR AND STAFF:
Swaim stated that this is available for review in the Commission packet.
REVIEW NATIONAL REGISTER NOMINATION OF JOHNSON COUNTY POOR FARM AND
ASYLUM HISTORIC DISTRICT
Miklo said the Poor Farm is located on the south side of Melrose Avenue west of Highway 218.
He said it's the role of the local Commission to review these when they are nominated and
make comment or recommendation to the State Historic Preservation Office on whether or not
the Commission deems this eligible for the National Register.
Swaim said she thinks this is the only poor farm /asylum in Iowa of this smaller size and is
therefore a unique structure.
Corcoran said she remembers that there used to be a large, imposing stone building on this
property. Miklo said there is also a cemetery with unmarked graves on this property.
Durham asked what the implications are of historic status for this property.
Miklo said it's honorary and is entered into the National Register and also provides the
possibility of federal funding. He said because this is owned by Johnson County, a public entity
rather than a private one, there are fewer possibilities for tax incentives. He said the building is
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
May 8, 2014
Page 4 of 7
also protected if there's an undertaking in the area such as a highway or federally funded
program, and therefore any harmful effect would have to be mitigated.
Agran asked what the future plans are for this property. Miklo said the county has a plan for the
bulk of the property to become open public space. He said there was discussion about the
possibility of selling the western portion for private development.
Sandell asked if because Johnson County has a plan to make this open space, the opportunity
for improvements and alterations would be limited. Miklo said it wouldn't be limited unless they
are using federal funds, in which case they would have to follow Secretary of Interior Standards.
MOTION: Durham moved to approve the designation of this property with the National
Historic Register. Baker seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8 -0
(Ackerson. Michaud and Waqner absent).
DISCUSS COMPLETION OF FEMA PUBLIC MEETING COMMENT FORM
Miklo explained that FEMA is providing some flood recovery to the University of Iowa, and since
its federal funding, any harm on a National Register eligible building or site should be
considered or mitigated if it can't be avoided. He said the university traded land with some
banks for the new school of music, and because the Sabin School will be taken down to
accommodate the banks' needs, FEMA is required to somehow mitigate the loss of that
building. He said the Commission considered the same proposal a couple years ago and
identified three potential projects that could be funded that would mitigate the loss:
1. Construct an elevator for the Horace Mann and /or Longfellow School, which were built in
the same year and by the same architect as the Sabin School. He said because the
school district is committed to renovating both schools and making them handicapped
accessible this is not a likely recommendation.
2. Fund a facility study for Horace Mann and Longfellow focused on maintaining these
buildings for long -term continued use. He said this isn't a likely recommendation for the
reason indicated in #1.
3. Fund a National Register nomination for the Horace Mann Elementary School.
Miklo said another possibility that was considered by the Commission but not forwarded the last
time it reviewed this was to salvage some of the decorative stone elements from Sabin School
to possibly re -use in a public space. He said it's up to the Commission to make one or more
proposals on how to mitigate the loss of the Sabin School.
Swaim asked if the work already done for Longfellow School could be used in nominating
Horace Mann, as their history relevant to the nomination is similar. Miklo said that Longfellow
was nominated as part of a larger district, so there may not be much detail on the building itself.
Swaim asked if the property owner's permission is needed. Miklo said to nominate it is not, but
to list it the property owner must consent.
There was discussion whether materials taken from the Sabin School could be re -used in the
renovation of Horace Mann and Longfellow. Miklo said it was unlikely, as most of the work
would be done on the interiors of the schools and on additions. He said that Sabin is masonry,
and the damage to masonry when you take it down renders it generally unusable.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
May 8, 2014
Page 5 of 7
Sandell asked about the cost estimate for salvaging the materials. Miklo said it came from an
architect retained by FEMA.
Swaim said the pieces were less decorative than they were massive. Miklo said the size is what
makes them difficult to salvage.
There was discussion how to get the most value. Miklo said he thought the National Register
nomination would have some benefit by highlighting the importance of Horace Mann to the
community and may support the continued use of the building. Swaim said it would also dovetail
with the proposed conservation district around Horace Mann.
It was suggested that the Commission propose replacing the bricks on Brown Street. Miklo said
that would cost more than what FEMA has indicated is available.
Corcoran suggested that some of the features of Sabin be salvaged and used somewhere in the
city. Swaim said if they were stored at the Salvage Barn, they could be bought privately and
there ends the community story of the school.
Sandell said Sabin seems to have many re -use materials, but the question is if it's fiscally
feasible. He said he was frustrated that they can't find a good use.
Durham asked if the cost of preservation was versus the utility or the aesthetic value of having a
similar decorative piece made of new materials. Miklo said part of the difficulty is not having an
identified use for the materials.
Swaim asked if the Commission wanted to make a recommendation along the lines of a
reasonable effort to remove and reuse the pieces that are manageable.
Corcoran said it would be nice to save something if they could.
Sandell asked if cost estimate for salvage prepared by the architect is separate from the demo.
He said if it was demo at the same time as salvage, it might come in a lot less than $50,000.
Durham said they don't have a cost basis for the salvage costs versus using new materials,
although the preference is that it be reused. He said if it proved to be economically feasible and
suitable for the reuse, the Commission prefers that it be preserved.
Miklo said if you remove the stone from Sabin not knowing where it will be placed, the only thing
that will retain its aesthetic quality would be the entrance archways. He said a possible
suggestion would be for them to explore reusing the archways.
Agran said when the renovations and additions are done to Horace Mann and Longfellow it
would be aesthetically pleasing and more durable to have these doorways from Sabin used
instead of some lesser modern material.
Baker said she would love to save the archway because it's so beautiful, but there's also the
logistics of storing and maintaining it to consider. She asked if Friends of Historic Preservation
are interested in it. Miklo replied that he thought they were not likely interested in something this
monumental, but he could not speak for them.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
May 8, 2014
Page 6 of 7
Clore said if it went to the Salvage Barn, it would probably benefit only the buyer, but if it was
used in the renovation of the schools, it would benefit the larger community.
Swaim said another idea would be if there were elementary school units on preservation or an
art class that toured historic districts and drew elements of historic houses - something to sow
the seeds of seeing and appreciating older houses.
Miklo summarized the options put forth in the discussion;
1. To encourage the reuse of at least the archways or one of the archways either in a
public setting or making it available to the Salvage Barn
2. To nominate Horace Mann School for the National Register perhaps coupled with some
educational programs
Miklo said he would be surprised if one person wanted this archway, as it could be reproduced
less expensively. He said at one time there was the thought that it could be used in the future
park where the waste water treatment plant now stands.
MOTION: Agran moved to recommend in order of priority: 1. salvage the three archways
for the Henry Sabin School for reuse in a public park; 2. salvage the main archway of the
Sabin School for reuse in a public space or school and supplement this with an
educational program aimed at teaching school students about historic buildings and
neighborhoods; 3. prepare a National Register nomination for Horace Mann School and
supplement this with an educational program aimed at teaching school students about
historic buildings and neighborhoods. Baker seconded the motion. The motion carried
on a vote of 8 -0 ( Ackerson. Michaud and Wagner absent).
There was discussion regarding the Iowa Memorial Union and possible recommendations for
mitigation.
MOTION: Baker moved to concur with the proposal from FEMA for educational programs
regarding the archeological findings in Hubbard Park near the Iowa Memorial Union.
Agran seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8 -0 ( Ackerson, Michaud
and Waaner absent).
CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES FOR APRIL 10, 2014:
MOTION: Durham moved to approve the minutes of the Historic Preservation
Commission's April 10, 2014 meeting as written. Corcoran seconded the motion. The
motion carried on a vote of 8 -0 (Ackerson, Michaud and Wagner absent).
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting was adjourned.
Minutes submitted by Joy Bayshore
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CITY OF IOWA CITY
MEMORANDUM
Date: July 10, 2014
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Tracy Hightshoe, Housing and Community Development Commission
Re: Recommendations from Housing and Community Development Commission
2b(5)
At their June 19, 2014 meeting the Housing and Community Development Commission
approved the April 17 minutes with the following recommendation to the City Council:
1. The Commission voted 9 -0 to recommend the approval of the FY15 Annual Action Plan
with minor typographical corrections.
2. The Commission voted 9 -0 to recommend the approval of the FY14 Annual Action Plan
Amendment #2.
Additional action (check one)
No further action needed
Board or Commission is requesting Council direction
X_ Agenda item will be prepared by staff for Council action
MINUTES APPROVED
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
APRIL 17, 2014 — 6:30 PM
DALE HELLING CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Michelle Bacon Curry, Andrew Chappell, Cheryl[ Clamon, David
Hacker, Jim Jacobson, Peter Matthes, Dottie Persson, Christine
Ralston, Rachel Zimmermann Smith
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Tracy Hightshoe
OTHERS PRESENT: Joel Shrader, Miller Thammovongsa, Jaclyn Steiff
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
The Commission voted 9 -0 to recommend the approval of the FY15 Annual Action Plan
with minor typographical corrections.
The Commission voted 9 -0 to recommend the approval of the FY14 Annual Action Plan
Amendment #2.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by Chair Andrew Chappell.
APPROVAL OF FEBRUARY 20 AND MARCH 6. 2014 MINUTES
Clamon moved to approve both sets of minutes.
Bacon Curry seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 9 -0.
PUBLIC COMMENT FOR ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None
STAFF /COMMISSION COMMENT:
Hightshoe told the Commission that the City is offering the Building Change program again for
downtown /Northside Marketplace improvements such as fagade renovations, energy efficiency
improvements, accessibility and utilization of upper level spaces. In addition to CDBG fagade
grants, three local lenders have agreed to each deposit $50,000 in a fund administered by the
City that provides no interest, no fee loans for these types of improvements. The participating
lenders include MidWestOne Bank, Hills Bank and the University of Iowa Community Credit
Union.
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
April 17, 2014
PAGE 2 of 5
Jacobson asked if the UniverCity program use realtors to sell /market the homes. Hightshoe
stated to date the City has not needed to use realtors for this program. The City uses online
marketing, has a website, issues press releases and has used other avenues to advertise the
program. There has been sufficient interest in the homes so that we have not had to use
realtors.
Review of the FYI Annual Action Plan (www.ic-gov.org/actionplan
Hightshoe explained that the Annual Action Plan identifies how the City will utilize its federal
funds during FY15. The plan is a HUD required document and also includes information
regarding general program management such as monitoring practices, affirmative marketing,
resale /recapture provisions, program certifications, and identifying low income and minority
concentrations per census tract.
Hightshoe questioned the commission about their approval of the Targeted Rehab Program.
When the commission recommended $140,000, they didn't specifically address if a portion of
the allocation could be used for downpayment assistance per the revised application. In the
draft Action Plan, staff included $125,000 for rehab and $15,000 for downpayment assistance
for a total $140,000 allocation. She said if the Commission prefers that the funds only be used
for rehab, they need to make the recommendation that the $140,000 be utilized only for rehab.
Chappell said it didn't seem that anyone had any concerns about that particular part of the
project.
Hightshoe explained that the public comment period goes from April 4 to May 6. The City
Council will hold a public meeting on May 6. The Council can either accept the plan as
recommended by HCDC or they may alter it. The plan must be submitted to HUD by May 15,
2014.
Jacobson asked how staff tracks if the jobs in economic development projects are going to low -
moderate income persons. Hightshoe stated that businesses are required to give employees an
income survey for any new position created during the first year. The income survey must be
kept in the personnel file. Businesses either send staff all the surveys at the end of the year or
staff monitors their employee files as it relates to the CDBG funds. An employee can refuse to
complete the survey, but they have to be considered over income on the annual report. At the
end of the year, the business completes a report identifying the income for each position
created that year. CDBG does not have a specified time the business must retain that position.
The City elects to track the jobs for a year.
Persson moved to recommend the approval of the FY15 Annual Action Plan with minor
typographical corrections.
Matthes seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 9 -0.
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
April 17, 2014
PAGE 3 of 5
Review of the FY14 Annual Action Plan Amendment #2
Hightshoe explained that the Commission had allocated HOME funds to Charm Homes to
purchase two homes in FY14. She said they have identified one home, but unable to identify a
second home that meets their accessibility needs. Charms was also allocated FY13 HOME
funds to purchase two homes. They acquired one and are looking for the second. They
believe they will locate a second home to complete their FY13 agreement, but do not believe
they could identify a third home by the end of the fiscal year. Charms is requesting an
amendment to utilize the FY14 funds for one home as opposed to two. This reduces the
beneficiaries from eight to four and requires an action plan amendment. Hightshoe stated staff
is recommending approval of this request. This will reduce the amount of private financing
required and helps keep the units affordable. The City would not have time to reallocate the
funds to another activity per HOME regulations. If not utilized, the funds may be recaptured by
HUD.
Chappell said this isn't something he normally would support, but they just can't afford not to
spend the funds at this point.
Bacon Curry moved to recommend the approval of the FY14 Annual Action Plan
Amendment #2.
Zimmermann Smith seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 9 -0.
Discuss FY14 Projects that have not Performed per the Unsuccessful or Delayed Projects
Policy
Hightshoe explained that the Policy states that if a CDBG recipient hasn't spent at least 50% of
its award by March 15, the project must come back to the Commission for review. The
commission may either grant an extension or recommend recapture and reallocation of the
funds. She said none of the public facilities met the expenditure threshold. She stated that
being said, they have all procured a contractor and work has started. MECCA is nearly
complete, but not billed yet. Free Medical Clinic started their project early this year, but hasn't
billed yet. Mayor's Youth got a slow start due to the occupancy and parking issues, but
contractors are hired and work commenced. Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County
procured a contractor for the landscaping work and work will be done as weather permits.
Hightshoe stated she would be concerned if a recipient hadn't procured a contractor by this
time, but the work is proceeding and all of them should be complete or nearly complete by June
30. For smaller projects, the contractors may wait till the end to bill.
The Commission agreed to take no action, meaning that the funds will be automatically
extended.
Discussion of the Community Development Celebration
Hightshoe said the City did not have a Community Development Celebration last year. She
requested that the commission form a subcommittee to brainstorm ways to advertise the impact
of CDBG /HOME funds with or without a celebration as previously held in the past.
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
April 17, 2014
PAGE 4 of 5
Bacon Curry suggested something with Public Access TV or channel 4 where they could have a
running ad with pictures of prior projects. Could include photos on the buses. Persson
suggested putting projects on the City's website. She said they could also do a press release for
each project.
Jacobson recommended publicizing good stories as many press releases get buried.
Zimmermann Smith suggested involving the Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown
Association.
Bacon Curry and Zimmermann Smith agreed to be on the Community Development Celebration
Committee.
Review Allocation Process — CDBG /HOME and Aid to Agencies
Chappell asked the Commission's preference on reviewing both programs or just reviewing one
this year.
There was agreement that members were not comfortable with the Aid to Agencies process.
The scoring criteria for CDBG /HOME applications were discussed, but the consensus was to
review just Aid to Agencies.
Persson, Jacobson and Ralston volunteered to serve on a committee to review the Aid to
Agencies process by mid - August.
Hightshoe gave a brief overview of the history of the Aid to Agencies funding process.
Chappell said that perhaps through the Aid to Agencies review they could get some ideas on
how to change the CDBG /HOME process and they can plan on doing that next year.
Monitoring Reports
• FY14 Neighborhood Centers — Playground (Hacker)
• FYI Iowa City Housing Authority — TBRA (Hacker)
• FYI Habitat for Humanity — Acquisition & Rehab (Matthes)
All the monitoring reports were deferred to the next meeting.
ADJOURNMENT:
Zimmerman Smith moved to adjourn.
Bacon Curry seconded.
Motion to adjourn carried 9 -0.
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II II II II
X00
Minutes
Human Rights Commission
May 20, 2014 — 6 P.M.
Helling Conference Room
2b(6)
�l
WZI]% X17
Members Present: Harry Olmstead, Joe Coulter, Shams Ghoneim, Paul Retish, Andrea
Cohen, Orville Townsend.
Member Excused: Ali Ahmed, Kim Hanrahan.
Staff Present: Stefanie Bowers.
Recommendations to Council: No.
Call to Order:
Olmstead called the meeting to order at 18:00.
Consideration of the Minutes from the April 29, 2014 Meeting:
Motion: Moved by Coulter, seconded by Ghoneim. Motion passes 6 -0.
Meeting Business:
Before You Know It (Event)
This film will be screened on June 17th at 5:45 p.m. at FilmScene. This is the same date and time of the
next Commission meeting. The Commission is a co- sponsor of this event.
Commissioners voted to move the date of the June 17th meeting to 4:30 p.m. for those Commissioners
who wish to attend the screening. Motion: Coulter moves to change meeting time on June 17, 2014 from
6:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., Ghoneim seconds. Motion passes 6 -0.
Juneteenth Celebration (Event)
The Juneteenth Celebration is June 14th from 12-4 p.m. at Mercer Aquatic and Recreational Center. The
Commission is co- sponsoring this event. Commissioner Townsend will be present at the event. Staff
submitted a proclamation to the Mayor for Juneteenth for the Council meeting of June 3rd.
Iowa City Pride Festival (Event)
Commissioners Cohen and Coulter will attend this event on behalf of the Commission. It is scheduled for
June 21 st from 12 -5 p.m. on the Ped Mall. The Commission is a financial contributor for this event.
Building Blocks to Employment Job Fair
Retish encouraged other Commission members to be a part of the planning committee for this job fair.
The job fair will be held in the fall of 2014. The job fair is geared at individuals who are unemployed or
underemployed. Meetings are usually held in the months leading up to the date of the job fair and are
scheduled for noon here at City Hall. Coulter and Townsend agreed to assist in the fall job fair
preparations.
Subcommittee Reports:
Youth Awards
The event went very smoothly. Recipients and attendees enjoyed it. This year had more attendees than
last year.
Education
No subcommittee meetings have been held in recent months. Retish suggests adopting a wait - and -see
approach, then speak up when something develops. Townsend is interested in having more information
concerning the District's programs and whether the programs result in high school aged students
receiving diplomas or certificates. Retish and Townsend will meet to discuss and draft a written request to
the District for more information.
Building Communities (Housing)
Townsend discussed the need for materials, in general, to be consumer friendly.
Adjournment: 18:45
Next Regular Meeting — June 17, 2014 at 4:30 pm.
2
Human Rights Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2013/2014
iMpptin4 nAtpl
NAME
TERM
EXP.
5/21
/13
6/18/
13
7/16/
13
8/20/
13
9/17/
13
10/15/
13
11/19/
13
12/17/
13
1121/
14
2/18/
14
3/18/
14
4/29/
14
5/20/
14
Diane
Finnerty
1/1/14
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
-
-
-
-
-
Ali Ahmed
1/1/17
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
X
X
O/E
O/E
O/E
Orville
Townsend, Sr.
1/1/17
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
Paul Retish
1/1/17
-
-
-
-
-
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
Dan Tallon
1/1/14
X
X
O/E
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
Kim
Hanrahan
111115
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
Shams
Ghoneim
111115
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
Jessie Harper
111115
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
Jewell Amos
111115
-
-
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
R
R
Katie
Anthony
1/1/16
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
Joe D. Coulter
1/1/16
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Harry
Olmstead
1/1/16
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Andrea Cohen
1/1/16
-
-
-
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
Connie Goeb
1/1/13
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Howard
Cowen
1/1/13
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
David B.
Brown
1/1/14
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
Henri Harper
1/1/14
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
-- = No longer a member
R = Resignation
2b(7)
Q11111 WVMWMW4_, IOWA CITY
PUBLIC LIBRARY
123 S. Linn St. • Iowa City, IA 52240
owcm Susan Craig • PHow 319.356.5200 • ax„ 319.3565494 • www.icpLorg
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
May 22, 2014
FINAL APPROVED
Members Present: Diane Baker, Tom Dean, Janet Freeman, David Hamilton, Linzee McCray,
Meredith Rich - Chappell, Jay Semel.
Members Absent: Thomas Martin, Robin Paetzold
Staff Present: Terri Byers, Maeve Clark, Susan Craig, Kara Logsden, Anne Mangano, Patty McCarthy,
Elyse Miller, Brent Palmer.
Guests Present: Bill Wilson, Ethel Himmel, Strategic Planning Consultants.
Call Meeting to Order. President Rich - Chappell called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
Public Discussion. Terri Byers invited everyone to Valeria's retirement party on 6/13/14 from
11:00 am to 1:00 pm. President Rich - Chappell will work with Craig to acknowledge Valeria's long
tenure (44 years) for the Board.
Approval of Minutes.
The minutes of the Regular Meeting of Library Board of Trustees April 24, 2014 meeting were
reviewed. A motion to approve the minutes was made by Hamilton and seconded by Freeman.
Motion carried 7/0.
Unfinished Business.
Planning process update. Consultants Bill Wilson and Ethel Himmel provided an update on the
strategic planning process. Wilson stated this process is unusual in how engaged committee
members have been. He believes the conversation has been excellent, as has the data, information
and participation by the planning committee. The next step is for a subcommittee consisting of staff
members who are on the planning committee after tomorrow's planning committee meets to work
on plan details after which the whole committee will meet again. The targeted completion date was
the end of June and Wilson projects that we will be close to that.
New Business.
Election of Officers. A slate of officers for FY15 was presented by the Nominating Committee. The
slate is President, Robin Paetzold, Vice President, Tom Dean, and Secretary Jay Semel. A motion to
approve the slate as presented was made by Baker and seconded by Hamilton. Motion carried 7/0.
Dean begins as Vice President today as the position has been vacant since the resignation of Mark
Edwards.
Board Policy #501: Statement of Authority. This is a regularly scheduled policy review. No Board
action required since there were no changes.
Board Policy# 502: General Personnel Policies. Changes were made based on amending our policy
to incorporate new language the City put in their personnel policies. A motion to approve the
revised Policy #502 was made by Dean and second by McCray. Motion carried 7/0.
Board Policy# 503: Administrative /Confidential Rights & Benefits. All of the Managers of the Library
are included in the Administrative /Confidential group. There were significant changes made by the
City to this policy. A motion to approve Policy #503 as presented was made by Semel and seconded
by Freeman. Motion carried 7/0.
Staff Reports.
Director's Report. Craig updated the Board on the rental properties. The basement space currently
rented by the University of Iowa for UIHC training space requested a lease extension of 18 months
(through December, 2015) which will be on the June 3, 2014 City Council agenda. The first floor
tenant, the Wedge, is owned by Steve Harding. Mr. Harding would like to enter into a longer lease
than he is currently operating under to make additional investments in his current businesses. He
will pursue this with the City.
Craig has been corresponding with an individual who is against having cameras in the bathrooms.
Craig has directed this person to the Library Board of Trustees. As previously noted on many
occasions, the security cameras are only in the public areas of the public restrooms, not in the stalls.
Another Library- related item to be addressed at the June 3 City Council meeting is a change to
budgeted permanent staff positions at the Library. Craig has asked that the full -time Library Clerk
job be reduced to 25 hours per week upon the retirement of Valeria Schnor. Five hours each will be
added to two other positions, the Library Assistant I /Graphics Specialist position, and the Library
Assistant III /Adult Services training position. This will slightly reduce the Library's overall personnel
FTE.
Departmental Reports.
Adult Services. Clark mentioned the serendipity of our posting post cards of early Iowa City and
Johnson County from the private collection of local historian Bob Hibbs to the Digital History
Project. An author writing a book about Klondike Bill contacted Clark after seeing a Klondike Bill
postcard in this collection.
Community & Access Services. Outreach has resulted in 44 new library cards from SE Jr High. A
group from the First Mennonite Church went door to door in Hilltop and signed up 22 people for
library cards.
Development Office. McCarthy stated the Unevent fundraiser is closing in on $10,000. The Library
Links Golf Classic is coming up on June 27, 2014. There are ten sponsors and ten foursomes so far,
E
which is ahead of last year. There will be many great prizes including a Hole In One car. The last
installment of $80,000 for the Better Building Better Service project was presented to City Council.
The new Summer Reading coalition, assisted by a grant from United Way of Johnson County, is
gathering data to show the impact of summer reading programs. ICPL is working with the Coralville
Public Library, North Liberty Community Library, and ICCSD on this project.
Volunteer Recognition. Rich - Chappell appreciated all the work volunteers do for the Library and was
glad to have the report.
Spotlight on the Collection. No comments.
President's Report. Rich - Chappell stated this is her last meeting as President of the Board as she
will not be present at the June meeting. She appreciated the opportunity to serve as President, said
she learned a lot, and thought it was fun. She thanked staff.
Announcements from Members. Dean was pleased to be part of a local author's fair held at
Coralville Public Library on April 19, 2014.
Committee Reports.
Foundation Members. No report.
Communications. None.
Disbursements.
The MasterCard expenditures for April, 2014 were reviewed. A motion to approve the disbursements
for April 2014 was made by McCray and seconded by Dean. Motion carried 7/0.
Set Agenda Order for June Meeting.
Strategic Plan.
Board Annual report.
Adjournment. A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Baker and seconded by McCray.
Motion carried 7/0. President Rich - Chappell closed the meeting at S:S6 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Elyse Miller
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2b(8)
MINUTES APPROVED
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
MAY 14, 2014
ROBERT A. LEE COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER — MEETING ROOM B
Members Present: Suzanne Bentler, David Bourgeois, Larry Brown, Clay Claussen, Maggie
Elliott, Cara Hamann, Katie Jones, Lucie Laurian, Joe Younker
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: Mike Moran, Chad Dyson, Zac Hall
Others Present: Angela Pitkin, DogPAC
CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Claussen called the meeting to order at 5 p.m.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council
action):
None
OTHER FORMAL ACTION:
Moved by Bourgeois seconded by Jones to approve the April 9, 2014 minutes as written.
Motion passed 9 -0.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
None
FRIENDS OF HICKORY HILL PARK REPORT:
Moran reminded commission members of the Hickory Hill Park plant sale to be held at the
South Hickory Hill shelter the weekend following this meeting.
Moran reported that the prairie burn that was done last fall at the park was proven successful in
promoting new growth which is evident this season.
DogPAC REPORT:
Angela Pitkin, Vice President of the DogPAC board was present. She announced that DogPAC
is very pleased to donate $5000 towards the new animal shelter and $1000 towards new water
fountains at Rita's Ranch.
Pitkin said that the group is very interested in working with Parks and Recreation in the possible
development of a 10 -acre dog park in the future Riverfront Crossings area.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
May 14, 2014
Page 2 of 7
Pitkin announced that the board welcomes new member, Pat Peterson who is from a Chicago
suburb. She will be researching the possibility of having a summertime dog festival in 2015 for
the purposes of fundraising. The desire is to make this a large event and hold it in or near
Downtown Iowa City. One activity they are hoping to include, which tends to draw large crowds
is called "Dock Dogs." Dock Dogs is a dock jumping and diving sport for dogs. It is a very
popular sport in the U.S. and has been featured on ESPN. Moran suggested that they speak
with the summer of the Arts coordinators to discuss getting on their calendar, or perhaps trying it
at Thornberry Off -Leash Dog Park. Some of the other ideas include "Meet the Police Dog," and
possible vendor booths. Dog PAC believes this would be a very popular event with the high
population of dogs in the area. They will keep the commission informed of any plans as they
progress.
Brown asked if there is information available somewhere for people that are interested in joining
DogPAC. Bourgeois noted that this information is available on their website at
www.icdoapac.org.
Claussen noted that dog parks are of great interest to many who are thinking of moving to the
area.
Laurian stated that she has some issue with dedicating 10 of the 35 acres of land planned for
Riverfront Crossings for a dog park. Bentler noted that urban dog parks are generally smaller;
Elliott asked who would approve such a request. Moran noted it would be up to City Council.
There would likely be a lot of neighborhood involvement as well.
NEIGHBORHOOD OPEN SPACE REVIEW
First and Rochester, Part One: This is for a development of an 11 -unit building that offers no
land for park use. It consists of steep slopes and the sidewalks don't meet trail needs and
Ryerson's Woods is nearby.
Moved by Elliott, seconded by Bourgeois to accept fees in lieu of land for the First and
Rochester Part One Development. Motion passed 9 -0.
Walden Hills /Rohret Road Preliminary Sensitive Areas Site Development Plan: This is a
proposal for a 14 -unit apartment complex which is bordered by trees. Staff does not want to
remove trees to provide green space for a park as they serve as a sound barrier from Highway
218.
Moved by Elliott, seconded by Younker, to accept fees in lieu of land for the Walden
Hills /Rohret Road Sensitive Areas Site Development Plan. Motion passed 9 -0.
Prairie Hill: This includes the land swap proposal by the City to the Iowa City Cohousing LLC.
The City proposes to swap 3 acres to the south of the park for some wooded land to the west of
the park for use by the cohousing group for access to Benton Street. The idea is to provide a
more open space to the community within the park. The Prairie Hill Development offers an open
space that doesn't have much for trees so could provide space for a playground or splash pad.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
May 14, 2014
Page 3 of 7
Staff does have some questions about this property yet concerning storm water drainage,
having no alley -way etc., which will be discussed at the May 20, 2014 Joint Staff Meeting.
Moran feels that the property swap is a good idea if issues can be worked out. This is an
informational item only, no vote by commission necessary at this time.
RECREATION DIVISION REPORT:
Napoleon Softball Lighting: Dyson reported that he was contacted when the lights went off too
early at Napoleon recently. He explained that in 2008 Musco Lighting put in an automatically
controlled lighting system at five of the fields at Napoleon as well as Mercer Park fields. This
allows Musco to monitor the efficiency of the system, to check for issues, to change lamps when
they go out which then provides the City with an extended warranty on the system. On the
second night that this new system was in place, there was a scheduling error at Napoleon and
the lights went off prematurely. That has been resolved and there have had no issues since.
Dyson further noted that he has received a quote to add this type of lighting to the City Park
tennis courts as well. As far as the City Park ball diamonds are concerned, the existing lighting
cannot be retrofitted for this automated system.
City Park Pool Project: Dyson announced that due to weather related delays, the City Park Pool
will now open on June 7 rather than the expected May 24 date. He noted that the project is
looking great and that there will be a substantial increase in the amount of deck and green
space provided. This delay may impact some of the regular lap swimmers who prefer City Park
Pool, however, should not impact the community as much as it could with the delay in the
school year ending.
Blue Zones: Dyson is once again serving on the leadership board for Blue Zones and will keep
Commission informed of upcoming events.
Affiliate Groups: Dyson reported that staff will likely be discussing fees for use of the city
facilities with affiliate groups. Some of the affiliate groups are reporting that their numbers are
down this year. For example, Kickers reports being down 200 registrants, boys baseball is
down three to four teams and girls softball numbers are declining as well. Some thoughts for
this decline include lack of transportation and the growing popularity of U -trip teams. Dyson
noted that as stated in the memorandum of understanding that the department has with affiliate
groups, that they be invited to attend a commission meeting once per year. He would like to
begin this process. He would likely schedule sports groups separate from those who rent rooms
etc. Bourgeois suggested that the Iowa City EELS Swim Club be met with separately. Dyson
agreed based on their unique relationship with the department, that they be met with separately
as well. Dyson suggested beginning these meetings as the groups are wrapping up their
seasons. Moran suggested that perhaps they all be brought in as one group to announce that
we are reviewing fees etc., and then schedule them in smaller groups at a later time to discuss
on an individual level.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
May 14, 2014
Page 4 of 7
Brown asked if there was any way to provide bus service to some of these areas where there
currently is none. Moran is going to speak with Chris O'Brien, Director of Transportation and
see if he can attend a future Commission meeting to discuss.
Dyson will bring to the Commission in June what we currently provide for these affiliate groups.
Moran noted that this action was attempted in the past, however, many of the groups came
back showing the money they had given to the City etc., and it was dropped. At that time there
was discussion of a sliding scale fee for these groups. Moran noted that while the City is
extremely grateful for their generosity in the past, the expenses to keep these facilities running
is increasing and the City has to recoup these expenses. Jones asked what other cities do to
recoup their costs. Moran explained that they are run by parent boards. Parents do the
chalking of fields, mowing etc. It eventually becomes difficult for them to find people to maintain
these venues.
PARKS DIVISION REPORT:
Hall and Moran will present a plan to council regarding Emerald Ash Borer. Hall noted that at
last count the city has about 1200 ash trees, and about 600 more in the parks. Staff did not
count Hickory Hill Park or Ryerson's due to the heavy forestation. Ash trees will not be removed
from these two parks. Hall will share a plan with Commission in a couple of months. There will
be a systematic plan for taking these trees down. They will not have to be burned as senate has
passed a bill so that they can be taken to the landfill but do have to be chipped to 1" x 1" size
prior to doing so. The University of Iowa uses chips for power so the department may look at
selling them to the University for fuel, or see if they would come and get them for no cost. Elliott
asked if the trees are taken down before being infested. Moran said that yes they are in an
attempt to be proactive rather than reactive. Hall noted that the lifecycle of the ash bore is one
year and they will decimate a tree within that time frame. Moran further stated that the plan will
include replacing the trees that are removed with another. Bentler asked if replacement of trees
will promote diversity of species. Hall said yes. Moran noted that in the past the department has
given landowners options of five or six types of trees to choose from. Jones asked if any of the
options would include edible trees. Moran said no as this usually invites more birds which will
make more of a mess around the tree. Jones suggested that even so, since the landowner
would get to choose, perhaps they should have an option of an edible tree.
DIRECTORS REPORT:
Ashton House: Moran noted that most of the parking lot has been backfilled. Staff is still waiting
on a permanent ramp and hope to have that in by the end of the month. Project GREEN will
begin working on the gardens over the Memorial Day weekend.
TTRA: The Lodge is very busy with reservations. The park has become very popular for many
walks as it provides a perfect 5K route (from the park to Napoleon and back). Moran noted that
some of the trees that were planted last year did not survive the winter. They will be replaced.
He also noted that a Herky statue has been placed at the park. This particular statue is named
"Wood Grain Herky" and sets in front of the lodge.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
May 14, 2014
Page 5 of 7
Social Services Agency Transportation: At the previous commission meeting it was suggested
that some social services agencies be invited to a future meeting to discuss some of the
challenges they are seeing when it comes to getting kids involved in recreational activities.
Moran asked for a better definition of what the Commission would like to see done. He does not
want to invite them, offer ideas and then find out that the City cannot provide the services
suggested. Brown said that unfortunately those that he has spoken with do not really have any
concrete ideas to offer. Moran said that he will contact Chris O'Brien, the City's Director of
Transportation for input. Younker suggested that O'Brien be invited to a future meeting to get a
sense of what the options are. Bentler suggested that someone also might want to speak with
the affiliate groups to get their input. Perhaps parents and coaches could put together a carpool
system. Hamann suggested that perhaps staff involve the Off Road Riders Program involved.
This group does an annual fundraiser. Last year they were able to provide six to seven bicycles
to kids and this year as many as 30 were distributed. The fundraiser this spring rose over
$10,000. Brown asked what happens to bikes that the police pick up. Moran noted that they are
auctioned off to bigger cities. He said that there may be some regulations in place that would
not allow them to distribute through the City, but he will look into this.
After more discussion Claussen asked members to send any ideas for other resources etc. to
Brown. Moran and other staff can work with Brown to identify people /groups to meet with.
Moran again stated that he believes step one is to have the Director of Transportation speak at
a future commission meeting.
Park Tour: Moran reminded members that last month there was some discussion about holding
the annual park tour earlier in the year. These are generally scheduled for September or
October. Bourgeois suggested that perhaps one be done in the spring and one in the fall.
Willow Creek/Kiwanis Park: Moran handed out a proposed concept plan for the Willow Creek
stream channel. The stream corridors and water quality need to be addressed in Willow Creek.
The creek is eroding as well as the trails. He noted that the first step will be to hold public
meetings. He will likely schedule a neighborhood meeting sometime in June. The estimated
cost for construction at Willow Creek and Kiwanis Park is about $320,000.
Ryerson's Wood Park: This park has been designated as a state forest preserve. The Governor
will come to the park and make an announcement in mid to late June. The State Forest
Preserve naming will protect the parkland from the cutting down of trees, plants, or anything
else done around the area. Also, this will help when applying for future grants or funding for the
park.
City Park Parking: The department has begun selling parking passes for constructions workers
that are working at Hancher and using the park to park their vehicles. They will pay $60 /month
from May through November. Staff has designated two parking lots for them. The money for
these tags will go back into the City Park account.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
May 14, 2014
Page 6 of 7
CHAIRS REPORT:
Claussen asked Tammy Neumann to provide a report to the commission about the Farmers
Market. Neumann will report in June.
COMMISSION TIME /SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS:
Laurian hopes to see efforts of the City to build better relationships with the schools in the
future. She does not feel that there is a good relationship that exists at this time.
Younker reported on the ad hoc Senior Services Committee. The first meeting was mostly for
organizational purposes. He stated it consists of a good diverse group. He will keep this
commission apprised of developments through this committee.
Hamann suggested that perhaps the Blue Zones committee be involved in some of the
transportation issues to be discussed.
ADJOURNMENT:
Moved by Bourgeois, seconded by Bentler to adiourn the meeting at 6:46 p.m. Motion
passed 9 -0.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
May 14, 2014
Page 7 of 7
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE
RECORD
NAME
M
M
M
M
M
M
T
T
v
v
TERM
N
O
r
r
r
Go
co
a
N
Q1
EXPIRES
tO
iz
o
Suzanne
1/1/17
*
*
*
X
X
X
NM
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
Bentler
David
1/1/15
X
LQ
X
X
X
X
NM
X
X
X
X
X
X
Bourgeois
Larry
1/1/18
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
X
X
O/E
X
X
Brown
Clay
1/1/14
X
LQ
X
X
X
X
NM
X
X
X
X
X
X
Claussen
Maggie
1/1/13
X
LQ
X
X
X
X
NM
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
Elliott
Allison
1/1/14
X
LQ
X
O/E
O/E
X
NM
X
Gnade
Cara
1/1/16
X
LQ
X
X
X
X
NM
X
X
X
X
X
X
Hamann
Katie
1/1/18
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
X
X
X
X
X
Jones
Lucie
1/1/15
O/E
LQ
O/E
O/E
X
X
NM
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
Laurian
Alex
1/1/16
X
*
Taylor
John
1/1/14
X
LQ
X
X
X
X
NM
X
*
X
Westefeld
Joe
1/1/16
X
LQ
X
X
X
O/E
NM
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
Younker
KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting LQ = No meeting due to lack of quorum
* = Not a member at this time
! 2b(9)
�
CITY OF IOWA CITY
..,,.._ MEMORANDUM
Date: July 10, 2014
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Bob Miklo, Planning & Zoning Commission
Re: Recommendations from Planning & Zoning Commission
At their June 19, 2014 meeting the Planning & Zoning Commission approved the June 5
minutes with the following recommendation to the City Council:
The Commission voted 7 -0 to recommend approval of REZ14- 00006, a rezoning from
Commercial Office (CO -1) zone to Planned Development Overlay (OPD -8) zone for
property located at 2815 Rohret Road subject to general conformance with the site
design and building plans submitted and a Conditional Zoning Agreement which
addresses the following:
a) Existing healthy trees within a distance of 80 feet of the Highway 218 right -of -way
shall be preserved except where it is necessary to remove trees for installation of
stormwater management facilities.
b) The building will be built with sound abating construction techniques materials that
reduce interior sound levels including masonry, fiber cement siding, and laminated
windows.
c) The maintenance the Rohret Road sidewalk becomes the responsibility of the owner
of the development.
2. The Commission voted 7 -0 to recommend approval of REZ14- 00009, a proposal to
rezone approximately 3.02 acres of property located between South Riverside Drive and
Orchard Street north of Benton Street from Community Commercial (CC -2) zone to
Riverfront Crossings — West Riverfront (RFC -WR) zone subject to a Conditional Zoning
Agreement requiring the applicant;
a) To dedicate ten feet of land along the Riverside Drive frontage of the property to the
City in order to widen the public right -of -way along Riverside Drive
b) Closure of the northern most curb cut from the property to Riverside Drive
c) Dedication of land or grant of a public access easement to allow the public sidewalk
to be extended around the Iowa Interstate Railroad embankment in a location to be
determined by the City.
3. The Commission voted 7 -0 to recommend approval of REZ14- 00008, a rezoning of 1.36
acres from Low Density Single - Family (RS -5) to Low Density Multi - Family (RM -12)
located at the northwest corner of Muscatine Avenue and Scott Boulevard and SUB14-
00008, a preliminary plat of Silver Slope, a 20 -lot approximately 12.14 acre residential
subdivision at the same location subject to the storm water management drainage for
Lot 23 being graded toward Muscatine Avenue.
4. The Commission voted 7 -0 to recommend approval of amending minor modifications,
variances, special exceptions and provisional uses 14 -46 -1 to add a minor modification
which would allow archways and gates taller than four feet to be approved
administratively.
5. The Commission voted 7 -0 to recommend that City Code Section 14 -4D -2 be amended
be amended to add outdoor service areas as an allowable temporary use for up to one
July 10, 2014
Page 2
year subject to the six conditions identified
be amended to clarify that outdoor ser%
residential and mixed use zones will nc
conforming use.
in the staff report and that the Zoning Code
ce areas associated with a restaurant in
t be considered an expansion of a non-
6. The Commission voted 7 -0 to recommend that the City Council send a letter to the
County recommending approval of a cell tower located on the northwest corner of 420th
St SE and Taft Ave SE, in Area B of the Iowa City and Johnson County Fringe Area
Additional action (check one)
No further action needed
Board or Commission is requesting Council direction
_X_ Agenda item will be prepared by staff for Council action
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION APPROVED
JUNE 5 — 7:00 PM — FORMAL
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Carolyn Dyer, Charlie Eastham, Ann Freerks, Phoebe Martin,
Paula Swygard, Jodie Theobald, John Thomas
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Bob Miklo, John Yapp, Sue Dulek
OTHERS PRESENT: Jesse Allen, Bill Synan, Ann Synan, Bruce McDonald, Jennifer
McDonald, Dave Zahradnick, Garry Hamdorf, Kevin Digman,
Kevin Hanick, John Hieronymus, James Hayes, Mike Bieniek
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
The Commission voted 7 -0 to recommend approval of REZ14- 00006, a rezoning
from Commercial Office (CO -1) zone to Planned Development Overlay (OPD -8)
zone for property located at 2815 Rohret Road subject to general conformance
with the site design and building plans submitted and a Conditional Zoning
Agreement which addresses the following:
a) Existing healthy trees within a distance of 80 feet of the Highway 218 right -of-
way shall be preserved except where it is necessary to remove trees for
installation of stormwater management facilities.
b) The building will be built with sound abating construction techniques materials
that reduce interior sound levels including masonry, fiber cement siding, and
laminated windows.
c) The maintenance the Rohert Road sidewalk becomes the responsibility of the
owner of the development.
2. The Commission voted 7 -0 to recommend approval of REZ14- 00009, a proposal to
rezone approximately 3.02 acres of property located between South Riverside
Drive and Orchard Street north of Benton Street from Community Commercial
(CC -2) zone to Riverfront Crossings — West Riverfront (RFC -WR) zone subject to a
Conditional Zoning Agreement requiring the applicant;
a) To dedicate ten feet of land along the Riverside Drive frontage of the property
to the City in order to widen the public right -of -way along Riverside Drive
b) Closure of the northern most curb cut from the property to Riverside Drive
c) Dedication of land or grant of a public access easement to allow the public
sidewalk to be extended around the Iowa Interstate Railroad embankment in a
location to be determined by the City.
3. The Commission voted 7 -0 to recommend approval of REZ14- 00008, a rezoning of
1.36 acres from Low Density Single - Family (RS -5) to Low Density Multi - Family
(RM -12) located at the northwest corner of Muscatine Avenue and Scott Boulevard
and SUB14- 00008, a preliminary plat of Silver Slope, a 20 -lot approximately 12.14
Planning and Zoning Commission
June 5, 2014
Page 2 of 13
acre residential subdivision at the same location subject to the storm water
management drainage for Lot 23 being graded toward Muscatine Avenue.
4. The Commission voted 7 -0 to recommend approval of amending minor
modifications, variances, special exceptions and provisional uses 14 -413-1 to add
a minor modification which would allow archways and gates taller than four feet to
be approved administratively.
5. The Commission voted 7 -0 to recommend that City Code Section 14 -4D -2 be
amended be amended to add outdoor service areas as an allowable temporary use
for up to one year subject to the six conditions identified in the staff report and
that the Zoning Code be amended to clarify that outdoor service areas associated
with a restaurant in residential and mixed use zones will not be considered an
expansion of a non - conforming use.
6. The Commission voted 7 -0 to recommend that the City Council send a letter to the
County recommending approval of a cell tower located on the northwest corner of
420th St SE and Taft Ave SE, in Area B of the Iowa City and Johnson County Fringe
Area
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA:
There was none.
Rezoning / Development Items
REZ14 -00005
Discussion of an application submitted by Allen Homes for a rezoning of approximately
3.6 -acres of property from Low Density Single Family (RS -5) zone to Planned
Development Overlay (OPD -5) zone to allow construction of an 11 -unit multi - family
building located at the NE corner of First Avenue and Hickory Trail.
Yapp noted what kinds of zoning surround the subject property. He showed photographs of
various views of the subject property. He said this project would be a cluster of eleven dwelling
units into a single multi - family building on the northwest part of the property, with that number
based on the number of single family units that could be placed on the property. He said there is
a required 100 foot buffer provided from the stream corridor and wetlands along the east edge
of the property. Yapp said staff feels that the plan for the property is consistent with the
Northeast District Plan. He said a majority of the parking is planned to be underneath the
building, with two pedestrian entrances proposed to the building. He showed several views of
the structure. He said although one corner of the building is taller than thirty -five feet, the
average height of the structure is under thirty -five feet. He said staff finds that the development
won't overburden streets and utilities. He said the proposed development provides more open
space and views across the property than a conventional subdivision. He said the single means
of access to First Avenue is preferable to multiple driveways. He said the Parks and Recreation
Commission has recommended fees in lieu of public open space. He said staff finds that the
development meets the intent of the Planned Development and Sensitive Areas Development
Planning and Zoning Commission
June 5, 2014
Page 3 of 13
Plan by clustering the units, preserving a majority of the property as open space, preserving the
wetland buffer and stream corridor and minimizing paving and recommends approval subject to
general conformance with the plan provided and the building design complying with the multi-
family site design standards.
Freerks asked what, if any, impact site features would have on how many single family homes
could be built. Yapp said for the homes built on First Avenue, the homes would be required to
be built outside the buffer and the buffer would become a rear yard. He said in order to achieve
the lots on Hickory Trail the developer would have to request a reduction in the buffer.
Freerks opened public discussion.
Jesse Allen of Allen Homes, the developer, said if he could build single family homes on this
property, he would. He said they have designed a building to minimize impact for Hickory Trail
and that will blend into the terrain and be compatible with the houses to the east. He said he
wanted to preserve one - hundred percent of the wetlands and the trees, so they pushed the
building to the northeast portion of the property, which allowed them to use some existing
screening.
Eastham asked about ADA compatible units. Allen said all the units will be ADA compatible and
there is an elevator in the proposed building.
Bill Synan of 833 Cypress Court said he isn't in favor of this rezoning. He said he has seen
several rezonings in the past few years that have substantially increased the number of multi-
family dwelling units along First Avenue. He said there is no reason to rezone these parcels
because single family homes can be built on this land.
Ann Synan of 833 Cypress Court said this proposed development is not what residents had
envisioned for the gateway to the Bluffwood neighborhood. She said she doesn't feel that this
proposed building will blend into the area and that it will adversely affect privacy of the single
family homes. She said the open space on the southern end of the subject property won't
necessarily offer more green space or protect the wildlife or plant species any more than the
single family homes are already doing. She said the residents of the area are afraid of seeing
another massive retaining wall put in like the one across the street. She said she feels there are
enough condominiums in this area already and would like to see either single family homes or
duplexes built on the subject property.
Bruce McDonald of 855 Cypress Court said he will have a direct view into the back of the
monstrosity that is planned. He said the City has received many letters opposed to this rezoning
as well as a petition against it containing over one - hundred signatures, and if this rezoning goes
through, that is not government by and for the people. He said with the grade on this property
there would need to be a large retaining wall on this property.
Jennifer McDonald of 855 Cypress Court said her first choice is single family dwellings, but if
they have to build perhaps they could balance the zero lot buildings up the hill on First Avenue
by building more of them on the subject property.
Dave Zahradnik of Newmann Monson Architects said at the Good Neighbor meeting the
consensus was that short of buying that property so nothing could ever be built on it, the
neighbors would be happiest saving most of the ground and that the clustered condos would be
the best option. He said that that new proposed grades do fit in with the existing grades so there
is no retaining wall along the west. He pointed out on the proposed plans that what might look
Planning and Zoning Commission
June 5, 2014
Page 4 of 13
like a retaining wall is actually the foundation of the building and where the building stops, a
retaining wall continues that will be well screened with plants.
Garry Hamdorf, owner of the property to the north of the subject property, asked the
Commission to drive out and look at the condo that is being built on the corner of First Avenue
and Hickory Trail. He said the blocks in the retaining wall are huge and it looks like a fortress.
He said he thinks a responsibility of the Commission and City Council is to protect the citizens
who are established and who moved there with a zoning that's different than what is being
requested. He said they need to look at what else is possible on this site.
Freerks closed public discussion.
Eastham moved to defer REZ14 -00005 to the June 19th meeting of the Commission.
Dyer seconded.
Eastham said he wants to look at what the options are for developing this site.
Freerks said she wanted more time to consider this.
Thomas said he's concerned with what the intent is of the RS -5 zone and what kind of
development is described in the Zoning Code with respect to RS -5, and what types of uses are
permitted on this zone.
Miklo explained that if owners of twenty- percent of the land within two - hundred feet of the
subject property sign a protest petition it takes a super majority or six out of seven Council
members to approve a rezoning, and the petition submitted does not constitute a protest petition
according to the Zoning Code.
Eastham said he wants some kind of metric to evaluate Comprehensive Plan provisions about
doing additional multi - family development along First Avenue, and what the ratio is for single
family versus multi - family development.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7 -0.
REZ14 -00006
Discussion of an application submitted by Hodge Construction Company for a rezoning
of approximately 4.40 -acres of property from Commercial Office (CO -1) zone to Planned
Development Overlay (OPD -8) zone to allow construction of a 33 -unit multi - family
building located at 2815 Rohret Road.
Eastham disclosed that he's on the board of a non - profit that had previously looked at this
property as a potential site, but those negotiations have stopped and there's been no action in
the past several months.
Miklo explained the zonings of the surrounding areas. He said the applicant is requesting the
rezoning because they have not been able to find a market for CO -1 here. He showed photos of
the neighboring areas and the subject property. He said the Comprehensive Plan encourages
clustering development farther away from Highway 218 to allow preservation of trees along the
highway and provide space to help mitigate highway noise. He said the Southwest District Plan
does indicate that cluster development is appropriate in this area. He said staff believes that the
design of the building and the materials proposed are compatible with the neighborhood, that
Planning and Zoning Commission
June 5, 2014
Page 5 of 13
the building position on the site allows for a generous setback especially from the properties in
Mormon Trek Village and that the building is being positioned to provide buffering from the
highway noise. He said staff is recommending approval with conditions regarding preservation
of the trees within eighty feet of the right -of -way of Highway 218 except where necessary for
storm water management, that the building be constructed of materials designed to abate sound
from the highway, and that maintenance of the sidewalk on Rohret Road be tied to this property.
Freerks asked how many parking spaces are being
per dwelling unit and two guest spaces, with the
require two spaces.
Freerks opened public discussion.
provided. Miklo said the plan is two spaces
expectation being that not all the units will
Kevin Dignan of Hodge Construction said the plan is for twenty two- bedroom units and thirteen
one - bedrooms.
Freerks closed public discussion.
Thomas moved to defer REZ14- 00006.
Eastham seconded.
Thomas said the issue for him is cluster development and its definition. Miklo explained that the
Zoning Ordinance and Planned Development Ordinance indicate that with the Council's
approval after recommendation by the Commission, clustering includes creation of multi - family
buildings where you would put units into multi - family or duplex or townhouse -style units or single
family with smaller lots. He said that for zoning purposes, all of the above are the intention for
clustering.
Freerks stated that this proposed plan does meet what the City considers a cluster
development.
A vote was taken and the motion for deferral was denied 0 -7.
Eastham moved to recommend approval of REZ14- 00006, a rezoning from Commercial
Office (CO -1) zone to Planned Development Overlay (OPD -8) zone for property located at
2815 Rohret Road subject to general conformance with the site design and building
plans submitted and a Conditional Zoning Agreement which addresses the following:
1. Existing healthy trees within a distance of 80 feet of the Highway 218 right -of -way
shall be preserved except where it is necessary to remove trees for installation of
stormwater management facilities.
2. The building will be built with sound abating construction techniques materials that
reduce interior sound levels including masonry, fiber cement siding, and laminated
windows.
3. The maintenance the Rohert Road sidewalk becomes the responsibility of the
owner of the development.
Martin seconded.
Miklo noted that since the staff report was written, the City Engineer has received the storm
water management plan and has it.
Planning and Zoning Commission
June 5, 2014
Page 6 of 13
Eastham said he thinks this is a reasonable use of this parcel. He says this helps achieve a
better balance of multi - family higher density homes available to people whose children will be
attending Weber Elementary School.
Theobald said she wished there was another way to manage storm water and buffer with
vegetation that would further draw water down. She said she thinks what they do with that is not
very attractive and probably not the best practice. She said she would like to discuss the design
of stormwater in general at a later date.
Thomas said with the cluster this would be a great opportunity to develop a recreational area,
but according to the plans he's looking at, more focus seems to be on the parking.
Freerks said sometimes there's a nice balance between that and retaining unkempt trees and
shrubs and nature as a buffer. She said there is value in both. Thomas agreed that there was an
opportunity here to do both.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7 -0.
REZ14 -00009
Discussion of an application submitted by Emrico Properties LLC for a rezoning of 3.02 -
acres of land located on the west side of South Riverside Drive, north of Benton Street
from Community Commercial (CC -2) zone to Riverfront Crossings — West Riverfront
(RFC -WR) zone.
Miklo said the subject property formerly contained a portion of the Hartwig Auto Dealership. He
showed various views of and from the property. He said the proposed Riverfront Crossings zone
is a mixed use zone that allows both commercial and residential, the latter either on the ground
floor or on the upper floors. He said intensity of development for residential would be somewhat
higher in the Riverfront Crossings Zone than in the CC -2 zone as the CC -2 zone requires
commercial on the ground floor and Riverfront Crossings does not and CC -2 allows three
stories whilst Riverfront Crossings allows four stories with the potential for a bonus floor.
Miklo said the proposed plan is for 96 dwelling units built over an underground parking facility
with a surface lot as well. He said an issue identified with the Riverfront Crossings District is
improvement of pedestrian access and the character along Riverside Drive, and staff believes
this building will contribute to that vision by building a structure on the west side of the street
with the parking behind it. He said as conditions of the rezoning staff is recommending that ten
additional feet of right -of -way be dedicated to the City to allow improvement of the pedestrian
sidewalk and an easement or right -of -way be granted by this property to allow a pedestrian
connection for a potential tunnel under the railway viaduct.
Miklo said staff feels this proposal does meet the Riverfront Crossings vision. He said there will
be a buffer strip on the west side of the proposed building. He said one of the two curb cuts will
be eliminated and consolidate them into one. He said staff is recommending approval with the
conditions outlined in the staff report.
Swygard asked if the subject property abuts a single family property. Miklo said it abuts the
OPD -5 zone to the west which contains duplexes. She asked how much traffic will funnel down
Orchard Street to Benton Street. Miklo said they anticipates some, but predicting how much will
go down Orchard versus Riverside Drive may not be possible.
Planning and Zoning Commission
June 5, 2014
Page 7 of 13
Yapp said they could not model something this small on their traffic model. He said he thinks
that most of the residents of the proposed building will be headed north toward campus and
downtown.
Dyer asked if this is the only property that will abut residential property across Orchard Street.
Miklo said as you work south there will be other properties that will abut residential.
Eastham asked what the Form Based Code has to say about assessing the capacity of a street
like Orchard Street to carry traffic from a fairly dense residential use. Yapp said the Form Based
Code doesn't address traffic volume on streets but as part of staff's regular analysis they do
consider traffic volumes and how that might affect a street. He said even with this number of
units for the proposed building, Orchard Street will have a relatively low traffic volume overall.
Freerks opened public discussion.
Kevin Hanick on behalf of Emrico LLC said we will be seeing major changes in downtown. He
said the downtown housing right now is dominated by undergraduate rental housing. He said he
thinks there is a need to serve a non - undergraduate population with a level of amenity -based
housing that's close in but not in downtown. He said this project would predominantly have
studios, one and two- bedrooms. He said although they would qualify for a bonus floor by
dedicating an extra ten feet of right -of -way and buffer they don't anticipate going over four
stories. He said this property is out of the flood plain.
Eastham said the plan before him shows buffering between the subject site and the homes
across Orchard Street. Miklo said the Code requires a buffer strip that this plan includes. He
said it's a good zoning practice to have transitions occur at backyards and that is the case here
for the properties on Orchard Court.
Freerks said it's key to address headlight traffic.
Hanick said the applicants hope that residents will take advantage of the nearby bus routes, and
pedestrian and bicycle paths, and that driving will not be the only way to get around.
Swygard said there will be good public transportation to get to stores across the highway, but
she said she still has some concern about the headlights as they exit facing west to get onto
Orchard Street.
Hanick said the curb cut from the parking lot would align with Orchard Court.
Dyer said she finds it distressing to have parking facing a residential neighborhood. She asked if
all the spaces are necessary.
Hanick said it's what they need and it will meet the City guidelines.
Freerks closed public discussion.
Eastham moved to recommend approval of REZ14- 00009, a proposal to rezone
approximately 3.02 acres of property located between South Riverside Drive and Orchard
Street north of Benton Street from Community Commercial (CC -2) zone to Riverfront
Crossings — West Riverfront (RFC -WR) zone subject to a Conditional Zoning Agreement
requiring the applicant;
Planning and Zoning Commission
June 5, 2014
Page 8 of 13
1. To dedicate ten feet of land along the Riverside Drive frontage of the property to
the City in order to widen the public right -of -way along Riverside Drive
2. Closure of the northern most curb cut from the property to Riverside Drive
3. Dedication of land or grant of a public access easement to allow the public
sidewalk to be extended under the Iowa Interstate Railroad embankment in a
location to be determined by the City.
Martin seconded.
Eastham said the Commission agreed to a course with the Form Based Code governing the
Riverfront Crossings area so his duty is to approve this rezoning with the conditions as outlined.
He said this is a real opportunity to take the first step in the Riverfront Crossings District.
Freerks said she's happy to see this come forward and is starting to formulate what staff and the
community have put so much into and this has a lot of potential. She said she hopes it all comes
together well and the applicant knows that the Commission is concerned about parking and
headlights.
Thomas said he's pleased to see things moving forward and he was interested in seeing how
the Form Based Code would translate to the building design. He said although this isn't the final
plan, it is a building with some articulation creating useable open space and he thinks that's a
real step forward. He said that in the Downtown / Riverfront Crossing Master Plan the drive does
align with Orchard Court and these are the kinds of things that do make a difference in terms of
the overall outcome.
Swygard said it's good to see some development finally happening in this part of town that will
hopefully encourage and spur further development in the area. She said she's happy to see
some stability come to the area with this development. She said her concern is the traffic
because even though it's anticipated that people living there will either work or head north for
certain activities, she knows they are going to go south for their daily activities like grocery
shopping. She said she is concerned about cut - through traffic on Miller and Hudson Streets,
streets that are already overburdened and she would encourage that neighborhood to look at
some traffic calming features for those two streets.
Theobald said she's excited about this development but she does share Swygard's concerns
about the traffic.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7 -0.
Freerks called for a short break.
Freerks called the meeting back to order.
R EZ 14- 00008 /SUB 14 -00008
Discussion of an application submitted by John Hieronymus for a rezoning of 1.36 -acres
of land located north of Muscatine Avenue and west of Scott Boulevard from Low
Density Single - Family (RS -5) zone to Low Density Multi - Family (RM -12) zone and for a
preliminary plat of Silver Slope, a 20 -lot, 12.14 acre residential subdivision.
Miklo explained the street design changes between the current rezoning application and a
previous one. He said the previous plan provide a loop street that would have connected back
Planning and Zoning Commission
June 5, 2014
Page 9 of 13
to Muscatine Avenue in the future. He said the current proposal moved the new street access
to Scott Boulevard and ends with a cul -de -sac. He said the subdivision regulations generally
discourage cul -de -sacs, but in this case the applicant wishes to set aside Outlot B to preserve
trees and open space. He said staff is recommending approval subject to Lot 23 being graded
to drain toward Muscatine Avenue and that would be a note that would have to be added to the
plat before this goes to City Council.
Freerks opened public discussion.
John Hieronymus of 3322 Muscatine Avenue said this is a two -part development and they are
happy to have staff support on this.
Freerks closed public discussion.
Eastham moved to recommend approval of REZ14- 00008, a rezoning of 1.36 acres from
Low Density Single - Family (RS -5) to Low Density Multi - Family (RM -12) located at the
northwest corner of Muscatine Avenue and Scott Boulevard and SUB14- 00008, a
preliminary plat of Silver Slope, a 20 -lot approximately 12.14 acre residential subdivision
at the same location subject to the storm water management drainage for Lot 23 being
graded toward Muscatine Avenue.
Swygard seconded.
Freerks said the Commission usually doesn't like to see cul -de -sacs but it's okay occasionally
for a reason such as the open space being proposed here. She said it's nice to see multi - family
and single family here side by side, and is happy that the applicant wishes to retain a grove of
trees on the property.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7 -0.
Code Amendment Items
Consider an amendment to Title 14, Zoning Code, Chapter 4, Use Regulations, Article B,
Minor Modifications, to allow archways and gates over 4 feet in height in required
residential front yard setbacks to be approved administratively.
Yapp explained that the current Code prohibits fences taller than four feet within the front yard
setback. He said staff was recently approached by James Hayes regarding a proposal for an
archway gate and fence to be installed in the front setback for properties on Burlington Street.
He showed an image of what that archway and fence might look like. He said the purpose is to
delineate and identify these properties as a cohesive area. He said the intent of the current four
foot limitation is to maintain a pedestrian friendly street scape and prevent a stockade -like feel
walking along the sidewalk. Staff reviewed this proposal and feels there are situations where the
design of the fence could actually enhance and add to the street scape.
Freerks asked about including the condition of using quality materials. Yapp said the definition
of a quality material can be subjective.
Yapp said a meeting for property owners within 200 feet would be part of the Minor Modification
review process.
Planning and Zoning Commission
June 5, 2014
Page 10 of 13
Eastham asked if approval from the Historic Preservation Commission would be required. Miklo
said it would.
Freerks opened public discussion.
James Hayes of 1142 E. Court St. gave a history of the houses in question and said they are
being used as The Grant Wood Artist Colony.
Freerks closed public discussion.
Thomas moved to recommend approval of amending minor modifications, variances,
special exceptions and provisional uses 14 -413-1 to add a minor modification which
would allow archways and gates taller than four feet to be approved administratively.
Martin seconded.
Freerks said she's excited about this and the fact that someone is doing this so the public can
enjoy it. She said she's satisfied with not putting "quality materials" in this amendment as
hopefully it's something that will always be assessed and monitored by staff.
Eastham said this is a wonderful idea and is appreciative of Hayes for putting it together.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7 -0.
Consider an amendment to Title 14, Zoning Code, Chapter 4, Use Regulations, Article D,
Temporary Uses, to allow outdoor service areas associated with restaurants as
temporary uses in residential and mixed -use zones.
Yapp said City Council directed staff to prepare an amendment to allow outdoor service areas in
residential and mixed use zones as a temporary use requiring an annual permit.
Martin asked why there is a maximum of thirty people. Yapp said that was the condition for the
Community Commercial zone so this would be consistent, and also the concern is that when
you get a larger group of people there's a greater chance of noise.
Eastham asked if there is a definition of an outdoor service area. Yapp said it has to be defined
with a barrier and tables aren't necessarily required. He said the definition is that it's an outdoor
service area for food and alcohol and it's the alcohol that makes it an outdoor service area.
Freerks opened public discussion.
Freeks closed public discussion.
Thomas moved to recommend that City Code Section 14 -4D -2 be amended be amended
to add outdoor service areas as an allowable temporary use for up to one year subject to
the six conditions identified in the staff report and that the Zoning Code be amended to
clarify that outdoor service areas associated with a restaurant in residential and mixed
use zones will not be considered an expansion of a non - conforming use.
Planning and Zoning Commission
June 5, 2014
Page 11 of 13
Eastham seconded.
Freerks said the temporary nature of this and the idea that there are ways to get around this
make this more appealing to her. She said these types of things are good to try, and small areas
where people can get together and mix are good.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7 -0.
County Conditional Use Item
Discussion of an application submitted to Johnson County from Verizon Wireless
requesting a conditional use permit to allow a 195 foot tall communications tower on 9.2
acres of land located on the northwest corner of 420th St SE and Taft Ave SE, in Area B of
the Iowa City and Johnson County Fringe Area.
Miklo indicated that this is in Fringe Area B of the Iowa City /Johnson County Fringe Area
Agreement. The County Zoning Code provides for City review of Conditional Use Permits when
they are within two miles of a city. He said this area will likely be annexed into the city and
zoned Industrial in the future. He said that such towers are allowed in the city's industrial zones
proved that the tower be setback from the property line a distance at least equal to the tower's
height. He said the application has been revised to adhere with the City's requirement regarding
the setback and staff recommends approval.
Freerks opened public discussion.
Michael Bieniek said he represented the applicant and was available for questions.
Freerks closed public discussion.
Eastham moved to recommend that the City Council send a letter to the County
recommending approval of a cell tower located on the northwest corner of 420th St SE
and Taft Ave SE, in Area B of the Iowa City and Johnson County Fringe Area.
Martin seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7 -0.
Consideration of Meeting Minutes: May 1, 2014
Eastham moved to approve.
Swygard seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7 -0.
Other
Adjournment
Eastham moved to adjourn.
Planning and Zoning Commission
June 5, 2014
Page 12 of 13
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7 -0.
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Approved Minutes
May 15, 2014
MINUTES
SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION
MAY 15, 2014
ROOM 209, IOWA CITY /JOHNSON COUNTY SENIOR CENTER
Members Present: Jay Honohan, Chuck Felling, Kathy Mitchell, Rose Hanson,
Margaret Reese, Jack Hobbs, Mark Holbrook
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: Linda Kopping, Kristin Kromray, Michelle Buhman, Craig
Buhman
Others Present: None
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
None.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by Honohan at 4:00 PM.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM MARCH 20, 2014 MEETING:
Motion: To accept the minutes from the March 20, 2014 meeting. Motion
carried on a vote of 7/0. Holbrook /Hobbs
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM MARCH 25, 2014 MEETING:
Motion: To accept the minutes from the March 25, 2014 meeting. Motion
carried on a vote of 7/0. Hobbs /Holbrook
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
COMMISSION ASSIGNMENTS:
None.
Approved Minutes
May 15, 2014
DISCUSSION OF AD HOC SENIOR SERVICES COMMITTEE:
Honohan reported that the Ad Hoc committee will meet every other Monday. The
next meeting will occur on Monday May 19th at 4pm in room 202 of the Senior
Center. After the meeting there will be a tour of the Senior Center.
DISCUSSION RELOCATION OF THE SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM
Kopping reported that she was contacted by Susan Blodgett (Wehr) of Elder
Services and was told that the nutrition program will be relocating their kitchen to
North Liberty.
Elder Services will continue to use the Senior Center as a contqregate meal site 7
days a week. Kopping will be meeting with Blodgett on June 4t to discuss more
specifics of what space needs Elder Services will have after the move. Kopping
has been reviewing the lease agreement and list of equipment that is in the
kitchen. Staff has been discussing various ways that the kitchen could best be
utilized to meet the needs of the Senior Center, Elder Services and area seniors.
Kopping will also be meeting with the Board of Supervisors, Heritage Area
Agency on Aging and Elder Services on June 5th
OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW
Kopping reported that two of the treadmills in the exercise space are having
issues. One will need to be replaced and the other is under warranty and will be
repaired if possible.
Kopping reported that Friends of the Center has agreed to purchase 33 raised
garden beds. Ecumenical Towers, Pathyways, Emmerson Point and assisted
living at Bickford Cottage have all agreed to be pilot sites for the project. Michelle
Buhman is currently identifying volunteers to help set up the garden beds and
work with representatives from each location.
Buhman mentioned that summer registration begins on May 20th. This summer
there are 101 opportunities to be involved in (63 classes /events, 21 groups and
clubs, 6 performance groups, 2 movie series and 9 volunteer positions).
Buhman reported that the Visibility Action Team is having a free screening of the
movie "Before You Know It" on June 17th at FilmScene. After the movie there will
a discussion with the film maker and two people that are in the movie via skype.
There will also be an encore screening at the public library the following
Saturday. This event is being sponsored by Johnson County Livable
Communities and the Human Rights Commission.
2
Approved Minutes
May 15, 2014
The Visibility Action Team is also going to be moving forward with the SAGE
affiliation, which was put on hold while SAGE reorganized their application
process.
Buhman reported that the Textured Aging program was successful. Next year
she looks forward to being the co -chair of the Oberman Center Late -Life
Learning Group which put on this program.
Buhman is looking into the Silver Sneakers program through Medicare. This
program works by reimbursing people for fitness classes they take that are
provided by certified silver sneakers instructors. In order to participate, the
person must use an insurance provider approved by the Silver Sneakers
program. Providers vary from one location to another.
COMMISSION DISCUSSION
Honohan reported he went to the city council and discussed the Colin Milner
program and the Bunny Hop dance.
ADJOURNMENT:
Motion: To Adjourn. Motion carried on a vote of 7/0. Mitchell /Holbrook
Approved Minutes
May 15, 2014
Senior Center Commission
Attendance Record
Year 2014
Name
Term Expires
8/15
9/19
10/24
11/21
12/19
1/16
1/30
2/6
2/20
3/3
3/20
5/15
Chuck Felling
12/31/15
NM
X
X
NM
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Rose Hanson
12/31/14
NM
O/E
O/E
NM
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
Jack Hobbs
12/31/16
--
--
--
--
--
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
Mark Holbrook
12/31/14
NM
X
X
NM
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
Jay Honohan
12/31/16
NM
X
X
NM
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Michael Lensing
12/31/13
NM
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Kathy Mitchell
12/31/15
NM
X
X
NM
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Margaret Reese
12/31/15
--
X
X
NM
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
Key: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM= No meeting
-- = Not a member
2b(11)
IOWA CITY TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION APPROVED
MONDAY, JUNE 2,2014--5:30 P.M.
CITY CABLE TV OFFICE, 10 S. LINN ST. -TOWER PLACE PARKING FACILITY
MEMBERS PRESENT: Laura Bergus, Nicholas Kilburg, Alexa Homewood, Matt Butler
MEMBERS ABSENT: Bram Elias
STAFF PRESENT: Ty Coleman
OTHERS PRESENT: Josh Goding, Emily Light
SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION
Coleman said Grassley informed him that an increase in broadband speeds has been implemented.
Grassley also said that Cedar Rapids now has a 350 Mbps Internet service plan and that due to the
number of local access channels Iowa City will not likely be upgraded to that level soon. Coleman
asked Grassley if there might be an interest in providing an HD signal for local access channels in
exchange for moving a channel or channels' channel number out of the lower numbers. Coleman said
the Internet consumer guide website has been up since the beginning of May. Homewood said it
would be interesting to see how many people viewed the site and used the bandwidth calculator.
Coleman said he could get that information. The Iowa City Communications Department agreed to put
a link to the consumer guide on the city's website in the newcomer's section. In addition, Brau will
forward the link with an explanation to the University of Iowa Orientation Department. The first video
has been completed and is on the City Channel. Coleman said a draft of a survey regarding viewers'
perspectives on the local access channels was included in the meeting packet and asked
Commissioners to review it and think about what additional kinds of information would be useful to
explore. The goal is to improve the local access channels' services. Each access channel was
forwarded a draft and feedback was requested. Homewood and Kilburg said it was good to include the
surrounding area and not limit the survey to Iowa City. Coleman said it would be best to conduct the
survey when the University is in session. How to collect responses is still being explored. A web -
based survey will likely be done and other methods might also be pursued.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Bergus moved and Kilburg seconded a motion to approve the amended March 24, 2014 minutes. The
motion passed unanimously.
ANNOUNCEMENTS OF COMMISSIONERS
Homewood thanked Bergus for her presentation to the city council on the Internet consumer education
initiative and said the presentation was very well done.
SHORT PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS
None.
CONSUMER ISSUES
Homewood noted that there was a written report in the meeting packet. Coleman said one of the
complaints has subsequently been resolved.
MEDIACOM REPORT
Coleman said Grassley informed him that an increase in broadband speeds has been implemented.
Grassley also said that Cedar Rapids now has a 350 Mbps Internet service plan and that due to the
number of local access channels Iowa City will not likely be upgraded to that level soon. Coleman
asked Grassley if there might be an interest in providing an HD signal for local access channels in
exchange for moving a channel or channels' channel number out of the lower numbers
LOCAL ACCESS CHANNEL REPORTS
Goding reported that PATV was open 39 hours per week for 13 weeks in the first quarter of 2014. 168
hours of programming were cablecast per week. The guidelines workshop has been moved to the first
Thursday of the month. The PATV board will not meet in June. On June 14 PATV will open the
studio for people from 12 -3 pm to come in before a green screen and record a Father's Day message
for a program to air on Father's Day. PATV continues to produce the "Live and Local" program on a
wide variety of local topics and "Live from Prairie Lights ". A new series, "What If', produced in
association with the University of Iowa Public Policy Institute will begin playback soon. Light
reported that the month of May was quite busy at the Senior Center and SCTV recorded many of those
events. Events include concerts by the New Horizons Band, the Voices of Experience and Family Folk
Machine, a performance by a group recreating an old -time radio show, a panel discussion on aging
stereotypes, and a screening of a documentary, "Consider the Conversation ", followed by a panel
discussion.
CONSUMER EDUCATION PROJECT
Coleman said the consumer guide website has been up since the beginning of May. Homewood said it
would be interesting to see how many people viewed the site and used the bandwidth calculator.
Coleman said he could get that information. The Iowa City Communications Department agreed to put
a link to the guide on the city's website in the newcomer's section. In addition, Brau will forward the
link with an explanation to the University of Iowa Orientation Department. The first video has been
completed and is on the City Channel.
LOCAL ACCESS CHANNEL SURVEY
Coleman said a draft of a survey regarding viewers' perspectives on the local access channels was
included in the meeting packet and asked Commissioners to review it and think about what additional
kinds of information would be useful to explore. The goal is to improve the local access channels'
services. Each access channel was forwarded a draft and feedback was requested. Homewood and
Kilburg said it was good to include the surrounding area and not limit the survey to Iowa City.
Coleman said it would be best to conduct the survey when the University is in session. How to collect
responses is still being explored. A web -based survey will likely be done and other methods might
also be pursued. Bergus asked if there was an opportunity to promote the survey using Mediacom's
bills. Coleman said he will inquire.
ADJOURNMENT
Homewood moved and Kilburg seconded a motion to adjourn. The motion passed unanimously.
Adjournment was at 6:03 p.m.
Re tfully submitted,
Michael Brau
Cable TV Administrative Aide
TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
12 MONTH ATTENDANCE RECORD
(X) = Present
(0) = Absent
(O /C) = Absent/Called (Excused)
Hoerschelman
Ber us
Homewood
5/28/11
X
X
X
X
x
6/27/11
x
o/c
x
x
X
8/27/11
x
x
x
o/c
X
9/24/11
X
X
X
X
X
10/24/11
X
X
X
X
X
11/26/11
X
X
vacant
X
X
Kilbur
2/25/12
X
X
x
x
X
Butler
3/26/12
o/c
x
o
x
X
4/23/12
X
X
X
X
X
5/21/12
X
X
X
X
X
6/25/12
X
X
X
X
X
7/23/12
x
X
X
X
X
8/27/12
x
x
x
x
X
9/24/12
X
X
X
X
X
10/22/12
X
X
X
X
X
11/26/12
X
X
X
X
X
12/17/12
X
X
X
X
X
1/28/13
X
o/c
X
X
X
2/25/13
X
X
X
X
X
Elias
3/25/13
o/c
x
o/c
x
X
4/22/13
x
x
x
x
0
6/3/13
X
X
X
X
X
6/24/13
x
o/c
z
o/c
X
7/22/13
o/c
x
x
x
X
9/23/13
x
X
X
X
o/c
10/28/13
X
X
X
X
X
12/30/13
O/C
X
O/C
X
X
1/27/14
X
X
X
X
X
2/24/14
X
X
X
0
0
3/24/14
X
X
X
X
X
6/2/14
0
X
X
X
X
6/23/14
0
X
X
X
x
(X) = Present
(0) = Absent
(O /C) = Absent/Called (Excused)