HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-07-31 Info PacketCITY COUNCIL INFORMATION PACKET
CITY OF IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org July 31, 2014
IN Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
MISCELLANEOUS
IP2 Memo from NDS Senior Planner: Tate Arms — 914 S. Dubuque Street
IP3 Letter from Mediacom: Channel Relocation
IN Article from Council Member Throgmorton: A better way to build in the suburbs
IPS Article from Council Member Throgmorton: Five steps to a complete community
IP6 Article from City Manager: Auditor: Latest budget uses $171 million from surplus
IP7 Article from City Manager: Portland Could Be the Most Airbnb - Friendly City in the U.S.
IP8 Article from Asst. City Manager: Fallout from Iowa public pension shortfalls
IP9 Article from NDS Planner Howard to City Manager Markus: 9 Steps to Creating a Great
Waterfront
IP10 Civil Service Entrance Examination: Maintenance Worker II —Central Business District
IP11 Letter from G. Knorr to Mayor Hayek: Fluoridation of Iowa City water [staff response
included]
IP12 Minutes of City Council Economic Development Committee —February 10 (Approved)
IP13 Minutes of City Council Economic Development Committee —April 1 (Approved)
IP14 Minutes of City Council Economic Development Committee —July 14 (Preliminary)
IP1S Certificate of Sponsorship for 4th Annual Iowa City Juneteenth Celebration
IP16 Minutes of Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee —June 4
IP17 Minutes of Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee —July 2
IP18 Minutes of Joint Cities Meeting —July 28
DRAFT MINUTES
IP19 Ad Hoc Senior services Committee: July 21
IP20 Charter Review Commission: July 22
IP21 Human Rights Commission: July 15
Vag=
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CITY OF IOWA CITY
Date
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
City Council Tentative Meeting Schedule IP1
Subject to change July 31, 2014
Time
CANCELLED Work Session Meeting
Location
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM Formal Meeti
Tuesday, September 16, 2014 5:00 PM
7:00 PM
Tuesday, October 7, 2014 5:00 PM
7:00 PM
Tuesday, October 21, 2014 5:00 PM
Work Session Meeting
Formal Meeting
Work Session Meeting
Formal Meeting
Work Session Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
Emma J. Harvat Hall
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM Formal Meeting
Monday, October 27, 2014 4:30 PM Joint Meeting /Work Session North Liberty
Tuesday, November 4, 2014
5:00 PM
Work Session Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
5:00 PM
Work Session Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
5:00 PM
Work Session Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, December 16 2014
5:00 PM
Work Session Meeting
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
CITY OF IOWA CITY
MEMORANDUM
Date: July 30, 2014
To: Tom Markus, City Manager
From: Robert Miklo, Senior Planner
Re: Tate Arms — 914 S. Dubuque Street
E P2
M
Recently there has been considerable public interest in the future of the Tate Arms building
located at 914 S. Dubuque Street. The Riverfront Crossing Plan identifies the property as a key
historic building due to its association with Helen Tate and the boarding house that she
operated for African American students prior to integration of University dormitories.
We have received an application from the current owner requesting that the property be
designated as an Iowa City Historic Landmark. Landmark designation will protect the building
from demolition and will also provide for zoning incentives allowing greater height and density
on the adjacent land and relax parking requirements in exchange for reuse of Tate Arms.
The Landmark application will be considered by the Historic Preservation Commission on
August 14. If the Commission finds that the property meets the criteria for Landmark
designation, the application will be forward to the Planning and Zoning Commission and the City
Council.
c M 1 f ► h
July 28, 2014
Ms. Marian Karr
City of Iowa City
410 E. Washington St.
Iowa City, Iowa 52240 -1826
Subject: Channel Relocation
Dear Ms. Karr:
On or about September 1, 2014 CBS Sports Network will relocate from the
Sports & information Tier to the Family TV tier and at the same time CBS
Sports Network HID from Sports & Information HID to Family TV HID.
CBS Sports Network will continue to be located on channel 171 and CBS
Sports Network HID on channel 762.
If there are any questions please call me at 319- 395 -9699 ext. 3461 or e -mail
me at 1 rassleygmediacomcc.com .
Sincerely,
064 4 1,oif
Lee Grassley
Senior Manager, Government Relations
Mediacom Communications Corporation
6300 Council St. NE • Cedar Rapids, IA 52402 •
319 - 395 -7801 • Fax 319 - 393 -7017
IP3
Cpl
A better way to build in the suburbs I Better! Cities & Towns Online
Idr -'
Better places, stronger communities.
Page MI
From Council Member Throgmorton
A better way to build in the suburbs
Here are io reasons why a new, small, apartment complex in Chico, California, creates a
"place" in the suburbs.
B1og post by Robert Steuteville on 21 Jul 2014
architecture building development sprawl retrofit
Robert Steuteville, Better! Cities & Towns
A 22 -unit apartment complex of four small buildings was finished in May of 2014 in Chico,
California, completing the traditional neighborhood development Doe Mill, begun in 2000.
The complex, designed by Anderson I Kim Architecture + Urban Design and developed by Tovey
Geizentanner of Green line Partners, does certain things well in to specific ways despite its location on a
car - oriented thoroughfare.
This area is a bit isolated. It is sited several miles from the walkable neighborhoods of Chico. Architect
David Kim and John Anderson report that the developer is looking at parcels closer in town for his next
project.
http: //bettercities. net / news - opinion / blogs /robert- steutevillel2l206lbetter- way - build- suburbs 7/29/2014
A better way to build in the suburbs I Better! Cities & Towns Online
Page 2 of 6
Typically, when multifamily is built in a drivable location, it is built on a fairly large scale — usually 200
units or more. It has large parking areas in front and the project is isolated from other housing types,
walkable streets, and parks.
Development is still occuring in drivable locations all across America. In some ways, these locations are
easier than infill sites. This project offers some lessons on how to build better in the suburbs:
1) It is small scale. These buildings appear to be not much bigger than single - family houses. The scale
allows the buildings to be integrated with townhouses, single - family houses, and courtyard buildings that
make up the rest of Doe Mill.
2) Due to their small size, these buildings are easier to finance and simpler to build than many larger
multifamily buildings. There's no expensive construction required or elevators.
3) Parking is provided on two surface lots — not expensive or resource intensive — but hidden behind the
buildings on an alley. The lots are planted with shade trees that cut heat retention, absorb rainwater, and
reduce runoff.
http:llbettercities. net / news - opinion / blogs /robert- steutevillel2l206lbetter- way - build - suburbs 7/29/2014
A better way to build in the suburbs I Better! Cities & Towns Online Page 3 of 6
4) These cost savings are balanced by very targeted spending that makes these buildings "pop." Each
window has trim that can be painted. "The units are built with stained concrete floors on the ground floor
and vinyl plank on the upper floors," Anderson notes. "The exterior is finished with three -coat Portland
cement stucco. The bay windows are sided with Hardie panels. The cabinets were fabricated locally."
Its
5) This small project connects to a small neighborhood with parks. Doe Mill is an isolated traditional
neighborhood development with no mixed -use, but it still includes about 8 to io blocks of very walkable
streets with public spaces that add value and livability.
http:llbettercities. net / news - opinion / blogs /robert- steutevillel2l206ibetter- way - build - suburbs 7/29/2014
A better way to build in the suburbs I Better! Cities & Towns Online
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6) While fitting into a small neighborhood with construction costs similar to single - family, this project
taps into the growing market for multifamily rental.
7) The buildings add to a "sense of place" at Doe Mill. The three -story towers at the corners complete the
main entrance to the subdivision and enclose a neighborhood park called Hutchinson Green. This effort is
not altruistic — rather it is connected to creating more value.
8) Rather than backing off of the higher -speed road in front, the units make an architectural statement. If
this road is converted to a complete street in the future — as it should — these buildings will contribute to
http: //bettercities.netlnews- opinion / blogs /robert- steutevillel2l2O6lbetter- way - build - suburbs 7/29/2014
A better way to build in the suburbs I Better! Cities & Towns Online Page 5 of 6
a feeling of enclosure and an 'outdoor room." The street is also planted with trees that will grow and
create a canopy over the sidewalk and part of the street.
9) Rather than contributing to the sprawling character of this area, these buildings help to set a new
pattern. The retrofit of our suburbs will be an important land use and planning task in the coming years,
and the completion of Doe Mill gives Chico an example of how to do better.
io) The project made money. "All 22 units have been leased at rents about 15 percent above the pro forma.
Most units were leased to single person households, which the market identified as significantly
underserved when we looked at existing and recently constructed local apartments," Anderson notes.
Robert Steuteville is editor and executive director of Better Cities & Towns.
http: //bettercities. net / news - opinion / blogs / rbert-steutevillel2l206lbetter- way - build - suburbs 7/29/2014
Five steps to a complete community I Better! Cities & Towns Online
Better places, stronger communities.
Five steps to a complete community
rage 1 of 5
From Council Member Throgmorton
Here are changes needed to make a small apartment complex in Chico truly walkable.
Bloe post by Robert Steuteville on 24 Jul 2014
development mixed -use sprawl retrofit streets
Robert Steuteville, Better! Cities & Towns
On Monday I posted apiece on a small multifamily development outside of Chico, California. I gave 10
reasons why this project is better than the typical suburban housing.
To recap, the project is nicely designed, completes a small residential neighborhood, hides the parking,
helps to create a sense of place, and begins to change the character of the main road, among other
attributes. I made clear that the site is isolated, with no mixed -use, on a thoroughfare designed to move
traffic fairly fast. The question came up in the comments: "Are there new commercial areas within a
reasonable walk?' To which somebody else added: "Or other social opportunities ?"
The answer: Not much on either count. The Walk Score of the site is 15 — very low. The buildings are
great, the public spaces in the little neighborhood are well done, but the site is — at best — a work in
progress.
Yet the prospects are far from hopeless. Numerous green areas are nearby. Residents can walk to a very
good park with playground, basketball court, and field large enough for pick -up or organized ball games.
Within a half mile is an elementary school. Within a mile are a grocery store, Starbucks, big box stores,
http: //bettercities. net / news - opinionlblogs / rbert- steuteville /21216 /five- steps - complete- com... 7/29/2014
Five steps to a complete community I Better! Cities & Towns Online Page 2 of 5
regional mall, and lots of restaurants. Two miles away are historic, walkable neighborhoods, and three
miles west is downtown and Chico State University.
The area is extensively developed with conventional subdivisions connected to an arterial road.
Google maps view of the area, with the location of Doe Mill marked 'A."
What would make this little project truly walkable? Here's a list of five key steps that would make this area
a complete community over time.
1) The culture of development has to change. More projects are needed like the one highlighted, designed
by Anderson I Kim Architecture + Urban Design and developed by Tovey Geizentanner of Green line
Partners. I don't mean exactly the same — some should include mixed -use, commercial, institution,
workplace, and civic buildings. I mean similar in the sense of contributing to place and the overall
neighborhood. This is not as vague and far - fetched as it may sound. The development industry is shifting
in this direction. But without that change in culture, this little part of the world will never add up to much.
2) Change is needed in thoroughfare design. East loth Street, where this project is located, is a typical
suburban arterial geared to cars and not pedestrians, bicyclists, and users of transit. This reform is also
not far - fetched: California is changing its approach to streets. More specifically, East loth Street has to
become a "complete street," designed for all users. This could mean many things: Narrower lanes that
slow traffic, more street trees, bike lanes, more sidewalks, on- street parking, and mixed -use buildings that
front the street are some options.
http: //bettercities. net / news - opinion /blogs /robert- steuteville/ 21216 /five- steps - complete- com... 7/29/2014
Five steps to a complete community I Better! Cities & Towns Online Page 3 of 5
East 2oth Street existing view, above. The street could be reimagined in many ways, along the lines of
IS.
3) The city should plan for a mixed -use center nearby. This has already been done. Within a quarter mile
of the site, a very large walkable urban center, Meriam Park, is planned. Still on the books, this project
ground to a halt due to lack of financing as a result of the 2oo8 housing crash. Perhaps a paired down, less
expensive version of Meriam Park could be revived. Failing that, more mixed -use in general is needed
nearby.
http: //bettercities.nettnews- opinion /blogs /robert- steuteville /21216 /five- steps- complete- com... 7/29/2014
Five steps to a complete community I Better! Cities & Towns Online Page 4 of 5
IM
in
Meriam Park illustration and plan.
4) Form -based codes adopted all along the corridor would transform the shape of the built environment
over the next decade or two in a way that would promote community.
5) A focus on infill, coupled with measures to preserve open space, would discourage leapfrog
development. Not far beyond Doe Mill are pristine countryside and natural areas. These are assets and
should be preserved as much as possible — even as walkable, mixed -use, infill development creates a
stronger sense of place heading into town.
A smart growth purist might ask: Why build at all in this automobile - oriented location? Why not just
build downtown where the area is already walkable? One answer is that development should take place in
http: //bettercities. net / news - opinion /blogs /robert- steuteville /21216 /five- steps - complete- com... 7/29/2014
Five steps to a complete community I Better! Cities & Towns Online Page 5 of 5
in -town neighborhoods that are already good. But the opportunities maybe just as signficant to improve
areas like East loth Street, Chico, in the coming years.
Robert Steuteville is editor and executive director of Better Cities & Towns.
f
IP6
From the City Manager
Auditor: Latest budget uses $171 million from surplus
The Des Moines Register
Iowa's budget for the year that began this month will rely on $171 million in surplus funds, state
Auditor Mary Mosiman announced in a review released Monday.
The spending in excess of projected revenues cuts into a $746 million budget surplus, leaving the
state with an estimated $575 million cushion at year's end.
Mosiman, a Republican, said the gap is affordable and responsible, so long as lawmakers are cautious
in their future budgeting. It does, however, undermine a central tenet held by legislative Republicans,
who have pledged repeatedly in recent years not to spend more than the state takes in.
Gov. Terry Branstad, a Republican, has said tapping surplus funds will be necessary over the next
few years to pay for new education initiatives and an overhaul of the state's property tax system that
were approved in 2013.
Mosiman's findings were contained in a review of the final action on the 2015 budget, which
lawmakers approved earlier this year and which the governor signed into law — with significant
spending vetoes — last month.
The fiscal year runs from July 1 through June 30, 2015.
Mosiman noted a handful of questionable practices in the budget — including $29 million in spending
from a one -time source of funds and $340 million in spending from sources that obscured the true
cost of the state's ongoing operations.
Taking into account spending from outside the state's primary checking account for state operations,
known as the general fund, the auditor calculated true spending for 2015 at $7.4 billion, well above
the $6.98 billion approved and highlighted by the Legislature.
Overall, however, Mosiman was complimentary of the budget, noting four years of growing budget
surpluses and an average growth in revenues that has exceeded the average growth in expenditures.
"This is a sustainable budget," she said. "This is a budget making good progress."
Article from City Manager
Portland Could Soon Be the Most Airbnb-
Friendly City in the U.S.
IP7
By Jessica Plautz4 days ago
Portland, Oregon could soon be one of the most permissive cities in the U.S. for Airbnb -style rentals,
as the city council prepares to vote on regulations that would legalize short-term one- and two -
bedroom rentals in privately owned homes.
The council discussed planned rules Wednesday that could have effects outside the northwestern city,
as municipal law adapts to the emergence of startups in the growing sharing economy. If adopted,
homeowners who have been violating local laws by renting to tourists would have a new ally in a city
government trying to keep up with the times. The vote is planned for July 30.
See also: New York Goes to War Against Airbnb for Disrupting Hotel Business
Cities and municipalities across the United States — and around the world — have been approaching
the growth of private- sector short-term rentals, through sites like Airbnb, F1ipKey, HomeAway and
Villas.com, with different tactics and with varying agility, as the rate of growth is outpacing most
regulation.
"The Internet is changing everything in ways that we weren't necessarily ready for or aren't even
necessarily happy about," Portland Mayor Charlie Hales told The Ore og nian. "We ought to figure out
how to run apace with this rapid change when we can "
Hundreds of residents of the northwestern city have already been renting out spare rooms or entire
homes, even though many regulations ban it
Hundreds of residents of the northwestern city have already been renting out spare rooms or entire
homes, even though many regulations ban it, and operators have actively petitioned the city
government asking that the practice be legalized.
The item on the city council agenda seeks to "improve land use regulations related to accessory short-
term rentals through the Regulatory Improvement Code."
At the meeting Wednesday, citizen commenters and city commissioners said many of the economic
effects of legalizing short-term rentals are unknown because there haven't been any comprehensive
economic studies that look at how the proliferation of short-term rentals affects a community — not
just in Portland but nationwide.
"The testimony today shows how vexing the sharing economy is," said Portland Commissioner Dan
Saltzman.
Although Airbnb is only one of the services that has made short-term private rentals more available, it
has been at the forefront of changes to lodging regulations, likely in part because of how important
legalization is for the company's $10 billion valuation. Airbnb announced plans earlier this year to
start a customer service outpost in Portland, hiring 160 people, per The Oregonian.
"This is an exciting step forward for everyone who cares about home sharing," Airbnb spokesman
Nick Papas told Mashable about the upcoming adoption. "We look forward to the legislative process
moving forward on Wednesday and we are excited to see local leaders embracing the sharing
economy and the benefits it brings to the city."
The changes will allow one- or two - bedroom rentals within privately owned homes after the owner
gets an inspection of the property, notifies neighbors, and purchases a permit for $180.
A lobbyist for Airbnb had argued against inspections, and supported legalizing apartment and condo
rentals as well, in written testimony to the city.
What the city is not doing is just as important as what it is for the future of short-term rental
companies.
What the city is not doing is just as important as what it is for the future of short-term rental
companies. Portland is not legalizing short-term rentals of apartments or condos, and individuals
renting an apartment are not legalized to sublet. Even though it is a limited allowance, it will make
Portland one of the most permissive of short-term rentals so far.
A yes -vote will put Portland "among the nation's first cities to deliberately adopt Airbnb - friendly
regulations," according to The Oregonian.
The city has recognized that the banned rentals are happening irregardless of regulation.
"This is happening in multi - family buildings, regardless of whether or not we look at it," Saltzman
said at an earlier city council meeting. Commissioners have suggested revisiting short-term rentals
next year when they address zoning changes.
Airbnb, as part of recent changes to its transactions with hosts and guests, started collecting tax on
Portland rentals on July 1. The 11.5% tax includes a 6% city lodging tax and a 5.5% Multnomah
County tax.
Although tax collection has been simplified, Portland is unlikely to have an easy time enforcing
permitting. According to the agreement with the city, the company will not provide user data to the
city and will instead pay taxes as though it were a 1,600 -room hotel.
Elsewhere around the world, governments are often taking less friendly approaches toward short-term
rentals.
IowaBiz: Fallout from Iowa public pension shortfalls
From Asst. City Manager Fruin
T1 T1 7
We are o
WestBankStrong.com
Recycle your roof I Main
CATEGORIES
Fallout from Iowa public pension shortfalls
Accounting /Finance
by Iowalliz in Tax policy Tweet ... .. ............... ...... ...... ...
Business Law
July 30, 2014 'This nnrtinn
Business Management /Sales
Gretchen Tegeler is executive director of the Taxpayers
Association of Central Iowa.
Business Referrals
Buying /Selling a Business
Public pension funds around the country have fallen trillions of dollars
behind in the amounts that should be set aside to pay pension benefits
Company Culture /ESOP
when they come due. Such shortfalls have arisen from many years of
Customer Service
inadequate contributions, compounded by huge investment losses.
Economic Development
Because benefit payouts are guaranteed no matter what happens with
Health /Wellness
investments or prior funding, the shortfall becomes a debt that must be
Information Technology
covered by you, the taxpayer.
insurance
Like a mortgage, taxpayers are now scheduled to pay off this debt over
Internet Law
the next 25 to 30 years. This is being accomplished through higher
pension contributions on the public payroll. Here in Iowa, payments on
Leadership Books
the debt are about $380 million per year, Just for debt service on public
Leadership /HR
pensions. This is on top of the cost of the new benefits that accrue
Life /Work Balance
each year, of which taxpayers are financing another $380 million. In
Marketing & Branding
total, Iowa taxpayers are spending about three - quarters of a billion
dollars each year for state and local defined benefit public pensions.
networking /collaboration
Organizational
The increase in public spending for pensions has impacted the ability of
strategy/ development
our state and local governments in Iowa to pay for other services. The
Project Management
result is a decline in the quality of public services and an increase in
property taxes. For example, all Des Moines libraries have closed an
Public Relations
additional day each week just to help cover the cost of police and fire
Retail
pensions. Urbandale is raising property taxes. Some have questioned
Social Media
whether it's worth the substantial public cost to pay such a generous
Social Networking
benefit to so few individuals. Police and firefighters in our largest 49
Starting /Growing a Business
cities can retire at age 55, and receive 82 percent of their highest salary
each year for the remainder of their lives. Almost all of the retirees in
Sustainable Construction and
Design
this system will have a higher standard of living post- retirement than
they did during their highest earning years.
Tax policy
Technology
http: / /www.iowabiz.coml20l4 /07 /fallout- from -iowa- public - pension - shortfalls.html 7/30/2014
IowaBiz: Fallout from Iowa public pension shortfalls
Now there's an additional cost associated with public pensions in Iowa.
Moody's Investor Services has changed the way it evaluates municipal
credit risk, now giving explicit consideration to the amount of public
pension debt a government entity carries and its capacity to fund it.
Using the new methodology, Moody's has downgraded 8 of the last 12
cities it has reviewed in Iowa. Lower ratings mean higher borrowing
costs for these entities. Cities with rating downgrades by Moody's are
shown below in red.
Rating
City
Pop Rank
Last Update
AAA
Iowa City
5
04/29/2014
West Des Moines
9
07/24/2014
Cedar Rapids
2
05/06/2014
Ames
8
03/21/2014
Aal
Urbandale
12
07/24/2013
Marion
14
10/21/2013
Ankeny
11
04/16/2014
Des Moines
1
06/19/2014
Dubuque
10
04/11/2014
Aa2
Waterloo
6
05/30/2014
Sioux City
4
02/25/2014
Cedar Falls
13
03/03/2010
Bettendorf
15
03/27/2014
Council Bluffs
7
03/13/2014
Aa3
Davenport
3
02/05/2014
Moody's uses its own methods and assumptions to estimate the amount
of pension debt carried by each government entity. State government's
Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS) debt is estimated by
Moody's to be more than twice as much as is reported by the system.
And while the Municipal Fire and Police Retirement System of Iowa
(MFPRSI) reports a funded ratio (ratio of assets to liabilities) of 77
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Steve Sink
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Victor Aspengren
http: / /www.iowabiz.coml20l4 /07 /fallout- from -iowa- public - pension - shortfalls.html 7/30/2014
IowaBiz: Fallout from Iowa public pension shortfalls
percent (with 100 percent being fully funded), Public Financial
Management estimates the funded ratio to be only 55 percent - a truly
alarming figure -- using Moody's methods and assumptions. In this
plan, taxpayers are already paying 30 percent on top of salaries for
pension contributions, with the associated budget and service impacts,
but should probably be paying much more.
Moody's understands the crowding out effect that a heavy debt burden
can have on city budgets. Heavy debt means less is available to sustain
city services, which can, ultimately, lead to a downward spiral as people
leave and the tax base erodes. They have seen it happen in Detroit and
elsewhere, with the result that bondholders and pensioners both lose.
In recent reports, a typical comment from Moody's would be, "The
downgrade is a result of an elevated debt burden, due in part to
retirement pensions for full -time firefighters and police officers.
City XYZ has moderately elevated exposure to two statewide cost -
sharing pension plans."
Besides the additional cost of borrowing, Iowans should be concerned
about the rating downgrades because they mean an independent entity
is basically waving a red flag. Will we see it in time?
July 30, 2014 1 Permalink
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Project for Public Spaces 19 Steps to Creating a Great Waterfront
From NDS Planner
MORE ARTICLES TYPE
IP9
Howard via CM Markus
9 Steps to Creating a Great Waterfront
1. LOOK FIRST AT THE PUBLIC SPACE
In planning a waterfront development, city officials or a developer should begin by
envisioning a network of well- connected, multi -use public spaces that fit with the
community's shared goals. By orienting waterfront revitalization around public spaces, new
construction will enhance the quality of existing destinations and result in a whole that is
greater than the sum of its parts.
While streets may be appropriate on some waterfronts, pedestrian connections should be
given top priority, making large parking lots and auto - oriented development out of the
question.
Developers of the Point Street landing development on the Hudson River in
Yonkers, N.Y. began their project by determining what the character of the
public spaces should be.
2. MAKE SURE PUBLIC GOALS ARE THE PRIMARY OBJECTIVE
Waterfronts everywhere are too valuable to simply allow developers to dictate what happens
there.. This is not to say that private development is unwelcome and should be discouraged
— on the contrary, it is often necessary to the future of a healthy waterfront. But the best
solutions for revamping waterfronts put public goals first, not private short-term financial
http: / /www.pps.org/ reference/ stepstocreatingagreatwaterfront/ 7/29/2014
Project for Public Spaces 19 Steps to Creating a Great Waterfront Page 2 of 6
objective. As long as redevelopment plans adhere to the notion that the waterfront is an
inherently public asset, it will be relatively easy to follow the rest of the steps here.
Community engagement — and, ultimately, local ownership and pride — depend on this basic
premise.
Successful waterfront destinations reach out to entire community,
as happens with Paris Plage, a month -long celebration that creates
a beach to the Seine River in Paris.
3. BUILD ON EXISTING ASSETS & CONTEXT
Granville Island has created an abundance of user - friendly destinations
while preserving the site's industrial character.
After establishing the public spaces and public goals, begin the public visioning process with
the existing assets and surrounding context. Start with the historical form and function of
the site to foster a locally grounded identity by channeling former vibrancy into a variety of
uses. Existing industrial uses should be preserved when compatible with human activity on
the waterfront. Surrounding neighborhoods should be integrated into the waterfront to
strengthen connectivity between destinations. And new development should embrace its
waterfront context with appropriate orientation and usages.
4. CREATE A SHARED COMMUNITY VISION
Unlike a master plan, a community visioning process does not lock a project into a
prescribed solution. It is a citizen- driven initiative that outlines a set of goals — ideals to strive
for —that set the stage for people to think boldly, make breakthroughs, and achieve new
possibilities for their waterfront. Because a vision is adaptable and can be implemented
gradually, starting with small experiments, it often becomes more powerful through time as
public enthusiasm for making bold changes gains support.
http: / /www.pps.org/ reference /stepstocreatingagreatwater front/ 7/29/2014
Project for Public Spaces 19 Steps to Creating a Great Waterfront Page 3 of 6
A community visioning plan for Brooklyn's Pier 6 (left). The existing design
did not benefit from a community process, and the community did not feel
it reflected its needs (right).
5. CREATE MULTIPLE -USE DESTINATIONS BY TAPPING THE POWER OF
10
Through decades of work, PPS has found that the most effective way to propel a visioning
process is to set a goal of creating ten great destinations along a waterfront, an idea we call
the "Power of Ten." This focus on destinations, rather than "open space" or parks, enables a
genuine community -led process to take root. Residents, businesses, community
organizations and other stakeholders all join in to help identify the key destinations and then
define the uses and activities they want to see at each place.
After using the Power of io to create great destinations throughout a waterfront, the same
principle should be applied at each destination to come up with a list of ten activities for that
spot. A wealth of things to do broadens the appeal of the destination, encouraging round -
the- clock use.
After multiple place evaluation workshops, a variety of community
stakeholders, public agencies, and private firms produced a collective vision
for a broad range of uses to draw people to Newark's waterfront.
6. CONNECT DESTINATIONS ALONG THE WATERFRONT
Destinations should be connected to one another and incorporated into a vision for the
waterfront as a whole. A waterfront that is continuously walkable with a variety of activities
along the way will successfully link destinations, allowing the appeal of each one to
strengthen the place as a whole..
Creating these seamless connections is a fascinating challenge that involves mixing uses
(such as housing, recreation, entertainment and retail) and mixing partners (such as public
institutions and local business owners). Another key element is attracting people to the
waterfront on foot or bike, rather than just in their cars.
http: / /www.pps.org/ reference / stepstocreatingagreatwaterfront / 7/29/2014
Project for Public Spaces 19 Steps to Creating a Great Waterfront Page 4 of 6
Parks or esplanades should not serve as the whole purpose of the entire waterfront. Too
much passive, one - dimensional open space puts a damper on the inherent vibrancy of
waterfronts, as evident in many spots throughout Toronto, New York City and Vancouver, -
cities that have relied too heavily on "greening" their waterfronts without including other
public activities that draw people for different reasons at different times. The world's best
waterfronts use parks as connective tissue, using them to link other high- profile destinations
together. Helsinki, Stockholm, Sydney, and Baltimore have successfully employed this
strategy.
Connecting the destinations at the San Diego
Embarcadero.
7. MAXIMIZE OPPORTUNITIES FOR PUBLIC ACCESS
It is essential that the waterfront be accessible for everyone to the greatest extent possible.
Here too, the goal of continuity is of paramount importance. Waterfronts with continuous
public access are much more popular than those where public space is interrupted. Even
small stretches where the waterfront is unavailable to people greatly diminish the
experience. California's Balboa Island, located off the coast of Newport Beach, makes its
entire shoreline accessible to the public instead of giving waterfront property owners sole
rights of use.
Access also means that people can actually interact with the water in numerous ways —from
swimming and fishing, to picnicking dockside and feeding the ducks. If it is not possible to
actually dip their hands in the water, people should have access to another type of water
nearby —such as a fountain, spray play area or a swimming pool that floats next to the shore
(such as the pools set up in the Seine during Paris Plage).
PPS was asked to assess the strongest locations and connections for new
waterfront destinations on Vancouver's False Creek.
8. BALANCE ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS WITH HUMAN NEEDS
While a wide variety of uses can flourish on a waterfront, many successful destinations
embrace their natural surroundings by creating a close connection between human and
natural needs. Marine biologists and environmentalists today promote the restoration of
natural shorelines — at least where marine uses do not dominate — and advocate replacing
http: / /www.pps.org/ reference / stepstocreatingagreatwaterfront / 7/29/2014
Project for Public Spaces 19 Steps to Creating a Great Waterfront Page 5 of 6
crumbling bulkheads with natural vegetation that will improve water quality, and revive fish
and wildlife habitat. But this natural restoration should -not preclude human use.
Boardwalks, interpretive displays, and even more active uses such as playgrounds and picnic
areas can be incorporated into the shoreline design without sacrificing environmental
benefits.
Boardwalks, such as this one in Cleveland, provide opportunities for
people to interact with wildlife along natural shorelines.
9. START SMALL TO MAKE BIG CHANGES
Good public spaces don't happen overnight, and no one has all the answers about improving
a place right at the outset. Placemaking is about doing more than planning. Many great plans
get bogged down because they are too big, too expensive, and simply take too long to happen.
Short-term actions, like planting flowers, can be a good way not only to test ideas, but to also
give people the confidence that change is occurring — and that their ideas matter.
bl- 9 =i
IP10
� r
- .�..�_
CITY OF IOWA CITY
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1826
(319) 356 -5000
(319) 3S6 -5009 FAX
www.icgov.org
July 23, 2014
TO: The Honorable Mayor and the City Council
RE: Civil Service Entrance Examination — Maintenance Worker II — Central
Business District
Under the authority of the Civil Service Commission of Iowa City, Iowa, I do hereby
certify the following named person(s) as eligible for the position of Maintenance Worker
II — Central Business District.
Dalton Jacobus
IOWA CITY CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION
Lyra W. Dickerson, Chair
IP11
G Knorr
330 Kimball Rol
Iowa City, IA 52245
319 -3.51 -2952
geoknorr @mchsi.com
May 6, 2014
To the Mayor of Iowa City
Matt Hayek
City Hall
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City, IA 52240
Dear Mr. Hayek:
We met for the first time during the memorial for Ann Bovbjerg last year.
We discussed the problem of fluoridation of Iowa City water. I cited a
recent scientific paper and asked: What are we doing?
Recently I received a statement from Fluoridealert.org which impressed
me by its precision and compactness. It was written by Paul Connett who
a couple of years ago published a landmark book about the subject.
It occurred to me that you might be interested in it. We all have to form
an opinion about the subject. People with decision power are obliged
only more so. How is it possible that we, as a nation, out of ignorance and
arrogance feed our children with poison which reduces their
intelligence? How is it possible that our governments from Washington
DC to the City Council of Iowa City, IA find that this is the correct way to
act?
Sincerely-yours,
G Knorr
"Fluoridealert.org" <info@fluoridealert.org>
geoknorr@mchsi.com
info @fluoridealert. org
The Arrogance of Fluoridation
FLUORIDEALERT.ORG
MAY 5, 2014
Dear George:
Organized dentistry, which includes the American Dental Association [ADA], the Oral Health
Division of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [OHD] and state dental directors, is the
only health profession that seeks to deliver its services via the public's water supply.
The practice of artificial water fluoridation is the height of arrogance when one considers the
following undisputed facts and scientifically supported arguments.
a) Fluoride is not a nutrient. Not one biochemical process in the human body has been shown
to need fluoride.
b) The level of fluoride in mother's milk is exceedingly low (0.004 ppm, NRC, 2006, p.40).
Formula -fed infants receive up to 175 to 250 times more fluoride than a breast -fed infant
if using water fluoridated with .7 or 1 ppm of fluoride. Does the dental community really
know more than nature about what the baby needs?
c) Fluoride accumulates in the bone and in other calcified tissues over a lifetime. It is still not
known what the true half -life of fluoride is in the human bone, but an estimate of 20 years
has been made (NRC, 2006, p 92). This means that some of the fluoride absorbed by
infants will be retained for a lifetime in their bones. Early symptoms of fluoride poisoning
of the bones are identical to arthritis. Lifelong accumulation of fluoride in bones can also
make them brittle and more prone to fracture.
d) Once fluoride is added to the water supply, there is no way of controlling the dose people
get daily or over a lifetime and there is no way of controlling who gets the fluoride— it
goes to everyone regardless of age, weight, health, need or nutritional status.
e) The addition of fluoride to the public water supply violates the individual's right to
informed consent to medical or human treatment. The community is doing to everyone
what a doctor can do to no single patient.
(htW: / /www nlm nih gov /medlinepius/enZ�/natientinstructions /000445 htm
f) Fluoride is known to have toxic properties at low doses (Barbier et al, 2010).
g) Children in fluoridated countries are being over - exposed to fluoride as demonstrated by
the very high prevalence of dental fluorosis. According to the CDC (2010) 41% of
American children aged 12 -15 have some form of dental fluorosis. Black and Mexican
American children have significantly higher rates (CDC, 2005, Table 23).
h) A 500 -page review by the National Research Council in 2006 revealed that several subsets
of the population (including bottle -fed babies) are exceeding the EPA's safe reference
dose (0.06 mg / kilogram bodyweight/day) when drinking fluoridated water at 1 ppm
(NRC, 2006, p85). The NRC panel also indicated that fluoride causes many health
problems at levels close to the exposure levels in fluoridated communities (NRC, 2006).
i) An un- refuted study conducted at Harvard University shows that fluoride may cause
osteosarcoma (a frequently fatal bone cancer) in young men when boys are exposed to
fluoridated water in their 6th, 7th and 8th years (Bassin et al., 2006). Despite promises by
Bassin's thesis advisor (Chester Douglass) a subsequent study by Kim et al. (2011) did
not refute Bassin's key finding of the age- window of vulnerability.
j) There are many animal and human studies, which indicate that fluoride is a neurotoxin and
37 studies that show an association between fairly modest exposure to fluoride and
lowered IQ in children. Twenty-seven of these studies were reviewed by a team from
Harvard University (Choi et al., 2012). In an article in Lancet Neurology, Grandjean and
Landrigan (2014) have since classified fluoride as a developmental neurotoxicant. All
these papers can be accessed at %��rtiNjiuuliJeAlerl„r"i c,Jih,o1a -I I
k) For many decades no health agency in any fluoridated country has made any serious
attempt to monitor side effects (other than dental fluorosis). Nor have they investigated
reports of citizens who claim to be sensitive to fluoride's toxic effects at low doses.
1) No U.S. doctors are being trained to recognize fluoride's toxic effects, including low dose -
reversible effects in sensitive individuals.
m) Dental caries is a disease, according to the ADA, CDC's OHD, and the American
Association of Pediatric Dentistry, and others. Fluoridation is designed to treat a disease
but has never been approved by the FDA. The FDA has never performed any trial to
ascertain the safety of fluoride. FDA classifies fluoride as an "unapproved drug."
n) The effectiveness of swallowing fluoride to reduce tooth decay has never been
demonstrated by a randomized control trial (RCT) the gold standard of epidemiology
(McDonagh et al., 2000).
o) The evidence that fluoridation or swallowing fluoride reduces tooth decay is very weak
(Brunelle and Carlos, 1990 and Warren et al., 2009).
p) The vast majority of countries neither fluoridate their water nor their salt. But, according
to WHO figures, tooth decay in 12 -year olds is coming down as fast —if not faster — in
non - fluoridated countries as fluoridated ones ( http,// figo_ ridealert.org/issues /earies/who-
data/ ).
q) Most dental authorities now agree that the predominant benefit of fluoride is TOPICAL
not SYSTEMIC (CDC, 1999, 2001)— i.e. it works on the outside of the tooth not from
inside the body, thus there is no need to swallow fluoride to achieve its claimed benefit
and no justification for forcing it on people who do not want it.
r) Many countries (e.g. Scotland) have been able to reduce tooth decay in low - income
families using cost- effective programs without forcing fluoride on people via the water
supply (BBC Scotland, 2013).
s) While organized dentistry (i.e. the ADA/OHD) claims that fluoridation is designed to help
low- income families, it is hard to take such sentiments seriously when,
i) 80% of American dentists refuse to treat children on Medicaid.
ii) The ADA opposes the use of dental therapists to provide some basic
services in low - income areas.
Moreover, such a practice can hardly be considered equitable when low-
income families are less able to afford fluoride avoidance strategies and it is
well - established that fluoride's toxic effects are made worse by poor diet,
which is more likely to occur in low - income families.
t) Compounding the arrogance of this practice, neither the ADA, nor the OHD will deign to
defend their position in open public debate nor provide a scientific response in writing to
science-based critiques (e.g. The Case Against Fluoride by Cornett, Beck and Micklem).
Conclusion: It is time to get dentistry out of the public water supply and back into the dental
office. It is also time the U.S. media did its homework on this issue instead of simply parroting
the self - serving spin of the dental lobby.
Sincerely,
Paul Connell, PhD
Director of the Fluoride Action Network
Co- author, The Case Against Fluoride (Chelsea Green, 2010)
Postscript:
"It is not only what we have inherited from our father and mother that `walks' in us. It is all
sorts of dead ideas, and lifeless old beliefs, and so forth. They have no vitality, but they
cling to us all the same, and we cannot shake them off. Whenever I take up a newspaper, I
seem to see ghosts gliding between the lines. There must be ghosts all the country over, as
thick as the sands of the sea. And then we are, one and all, so pitifully afraid of the light."
Henrik Ibsen, The Ghosts
Note: readers can view a videotape of a recent presentation Paul Connett gave on fluoridation in
Seattle, Washington at
References:
Barbier et al. 2010. Molecular mechanisms of fluoride toxicity. Chem Biol Interact. 188(2):319 -33.
AUsuact.
Bassin et al. 2006. Age - specific fluoride exposure in drinking water and osteosarcoma (United
States). Cancer Causes and Control 17: 421- 8..'kininn i.
BBC Scotland. 2013. Nursery toothbrushing saves £6m in dental costs. Nov 9. Online at
,� �.wm, nc � +s, uk- �unlaud- 24SSU3�0
Brunelle JA, Carlos JP. 1990. Recent trends in dental caries in U.S. children and the effect of water
fluoridation. J. Dent. Res 69(Special edition):723 -727. , ws r ,
CDC (1999). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 1999. Achievements in public health,
1900- 1999: Fluoridation of drinking water to prevent dental caries. Mortality and Morbidity
Weekly Review. (MMWR). 48(41):933 -940 October 22, 1999. Online at
CDC (2001). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Recommendations for using fluoride to
prevent and control dental caries in the United States. Mortality and Morbidity Weekly Review.
(MMWR). August 17. 50(RR 14):1-42. Online at
LLm;,�r.iUl +ai.lnm
CDC (2005). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2005. Surveillance for dental caries,
dental sealants, tooth retention, edentulism, and enamel fluorosis — United States, 1988 -1994 and
1999 -2002. MMWR Surveill Summ 54(3):1-43. Online at
CDC (2010). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2010. Beltran - Aguilar, et al. Prevalence
and Severity of Dental Fluorosis in the United States. Online at
Choi AL, et al. 2012. Developmental fluoride neurotoxicity: a systematic review and meta - analysis.
Environ Health Perspect 120:1362-1368. Online at http:iAluoridealert.oreiwo-
contenl/yploads /choi- 20121.odl
Cornett, P, Beck, J, Micklem HS. 2010. The Case Against Fluoride. Chelsea Green, White River
Junction, Vermont.
Grandjean P, Landrigan PJ. 2014. Neurobehavioural effects of developmental toxicity. The Lancet
Neurology 13(3):330- 338.,io,ou�t.
Kim FM, et al. 2011. An assessment of bone fluoride and osteosarcoma. Journal of Dental
Research 90:1171 -76. r, o>uact.
McDonagh et al. 2000. Systematic review of water fluoridation. British Medical Journal
321(7265):855-59. Study atiWi)� i�t cuo«. ____
NRC (2006). National Research Council of the National Academies. Fluoride in Drinking Water: A
Scientific Review Of EPA's Standards. Online at irtt0 :nAa+1r.uuli.euu,�dialUe�,hil ?iiternu iii -f`a1
Warren et al., 2009. Considerations on optimal fluoride intake using dental fluorosis and dental
caries outcomes —a longitudinal study. J Public Health Dent. 69(2):111 -5. ; b,. eaei
VIHW 1 iA010N 01, BLLLI.IIA
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�� - -,�•, �salsa
CP
Ueorg E. Knorr
330 Kimball Road
Iowa City • IA • 52245
USA
� �G .If-6
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TO THE MAYOR OF IOWA CITY
MATT HAYEK
CITY HALL
410 EAST WASHINGTON STREET
IOWA CITY, IA 52240
HHS and EPA announce new scientific assessments and actions on fluoride
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: DASH ashmedia @hhs.gov 202 - 205 -0143
Speeches and Testimony
January 7, 2011 EPA isa.jalil @epa.gov or 202 -564 -3226
Reports
HHS and EPA announce new scientific assessments and actions on fluoride
Freedom of Information
Agencies working together to maintain benefits ofpreventing tooth decay
Act (FOIA)
while preventing excessive exposure
Audio / Video / Photo
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) today are announcing Important steps to ensure that standards and guidelines on fluoride in drinking water continue to
E -mail Updates /RSS
provide the maximum protection to the American people to support good dental health, especially in children. HHS Is
Feeds
proposing that the recommended level of fluoride In drinking water can be set at the lowest end of the current optimal range
to prevent tooth decay, and EPA is initiating review of the maximum amount of fluoride allowed in drinking water.
Social Hub
These actions will maximize the health benefits of water fluoridation, an Important tool In the prevention of tooth decay while
Contacts
reducing the possibility of children receiving too much fluoride. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention named the
fluoridation of drinking water one of the ten great public health achievements of the 20th century.
X:
"One of water fluoridation's biggest advantages Is that It benefits all residents of a community —at home, work, school, or
-
play," said HHS Assistant Secretary for Health Howard K. Koh, MD, MPH. "Today's announcement Is part of our ongoing
support of appropriate fluoridation for community water systems, and Its effectiveness In preventing tooth decay throughout
one's lifetime."
"Today both HHS and EPA are making announcements on fluoride based on the most up to date scientific data," said EPA
Assistant Administrator for the Office of Water, Peter Silva. "EPA's new analysis will help us make sure that people benefit from
tooth decay prevention while at the same time avoiding the unwanted health effects from too much fluoride."
HHS and EPA reached an understanding of the latest science on fluoride and Its effect on tooth decay prevention and the
development of dental fluorosis that may occur with excess fluoride consumption during the tooth forming years, age 8 and
younger. Dental fluorosis in the United States appears mostly in the very mild or mild form - as barely visible lacy white
markings or spots on the enamel. The severe form of dental fluorosis, with staining and pitting of the tooth surface, Is rare In
the United States.
There are several reasons for the changes seen over time, Including that Americans have access to more sources of fluoride
than they did when water fluoridation was first Introduced In the United States in the 1940s. Water is now one of several
sources of fluoride. Other common sources Include dental products such as toothpaste and mouth rinses, prescription fluoride
supplements, and fluoride applied by dental professionals. Water fluoridation and fluoride toothpaste are largely responsible
for the significant decline In tooth decay in the U.S. over the past several decades.
HHS' proposed recommendation of 0.7 milligrams of fluoride per liter of water replaces the current recommended range of 0.7
to 1.2 milligrams. This updated recommendation is based on recent EPA and HHS scientific assessments to balance the
benefits of preventing tooth decay while limiting any unwanted health effects. These scientific assessments will also guide EPA
In making a determination of whether to lower the maximum amount of fluoride allowed in drinking water, which Is set to
prevent adverse health effects.
The new EPA assessments of fluoride were undertaken In response to findings of the National Academies of Science (NAS). At
EPA's request, In 2006 NAS reviewed new data on fluoride and Issued a report recommending that EPA update Its health and
exposure assessments to take Into account bone and dental effects and to consider all sources of fluoride. In addition to EPA's
new assessments and the NAS report, HHS also considered current levels of tooth decay and dental fluorosis and fluid
consumption across the United States.
UPDATE: The notice of the proposed recommendation published in the Federal Register on January 13 and HHS will accept
comments from the public and stakeholders on the proposed recommendation for 30 days at CWFcomments @cdc.gov. HHS Is
expecting to publish final guidance for community water fluoridation by spring 2011. The proposed recommendation Is
avallable at
http: / /frwebgate2. access. gpo. gov/ cgi- b] rVTEXTgate. cgl7 WAISdocID= WOYUwI /0 /1 /0 &WAlSaction= retrieve. Comments
regarding the EPA documents, Fluoride: Dose - Response Analysis For Non - cancer Effects and Fluoride: Exposure and Relative
Source Contribution Analysis should be sent to EPA at FluorideSclence @epa.gov. The documents can be found at
http: // water .epa.gov /actiorVadvlwries/dri nking/fl uoride_index.cfm
For more information about community water fluoridation, as well as Information for health care providers and Individuals on
how to prevent tooth decay and reduce the chance of children developing dental fluorosis, visit
http: / /www.cdc.gov /fluoridation. For information about the national drinking water regulations for fluoride, visit:
http: / /water.epa. gov / drink / contaminants /baslclnformation /fl uoride. cfm
Note: All HHS news releases, fact sheets and other press materials are available at http : / /www.hhs.gov /news.
Like HHS on Facebook W, fallow HHS on Twitter @HHSgov ®, and sign up for HHS Email Updates.
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HHS and EPA announce new scientific assessments and actions on fluoride
Fallow HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius on Twitter @Sebelius N.
Last revised: May 7, 2011
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July 16, 2014
Mr. George Knorr
330 Kimball Rd
Iowa City, Iowa 52245
Dear Mr. Knorr,
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CITY OF IOWA CITY
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1826
(3 19) 356 -5000
(3 19) 356 -5009 FAX
www.icgov.org
Your letter with the FLUORIDEALERT.ORG enclosure has been forwarded to me for review and
response. As you are aware, the Water Division is responsible for drinking water safety and quality and is
relatively heavily regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Iowa Department of
Natural Resources (IDNR), and for the addition of fluoride, the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services (HHS) through the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the Iowa Department of Public Health
(IDPH). As background, for the situation in Iowa City, I can offer the following information:
• According to IDPH records, fluoride has been added to Iowa City's drinking water since 1953.
• The average concentration of fluoride in our drinking water is supplemented to 0.7 parts per
million (ppm). The normal level of fluoride in the raw water (alluvial wells) is comparable to the
Iowa River at approximately 0.25 ppm.
• The USEPA/IDNR Safe Drinking Water Act limit for fluoride is 4.0 mg /L.
• The fluoride compound used in Iowa City drinking water is fluorsilicic acid. It comes from Mosaic
and is manufactured in Florida.
All fluoride compounds used for drinking water are required, per the IDNR Chapter 42, Section 42.4(3) "b ",
to be certified and in compliance with the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) /American National
Standard Institute (ANSI) 60 for use in an municipal water system for human consumption. They also
comply, along with other chemicals used in our treatment process, with the American Water Works
Association (AWWA) Standard B703 -00 for use in a municipal water system.
Iowa City's drinking water has a fluoride level that is set at 0.7 ppm as per EPA and the recent
recommendation of the HHS through the IDPH. This level is constantly monitored with other treatment
processes twenty four hours per day, seven days per week by city staff persons that are certified by the
State of Iowa as Water Treatment Plant Operators. The recommendation of 0.7 ppm was based on
continued research and findings for optimal fluoride level in drinking water and has gone through an
extensive review process.
The Iowa City Water Division is committed to providing potable water that is of the highest quality and
meets all applicable regulations. We are governed by the USEPA, IDNR and the IDPH. We apply
fluoride in a safe, effective, and reliable manner that includes monitoring and control of fluoride levels
within limits mandated by State and Federal laws.
We will continue to look to the USEPA to be a lead role to regulate drinking water quality and the HHS for
water quality standards and recommended fluoride levels in our drinking water. As it is our responsibility
to provide safe water for the public health of our community, we will monitor closely when the USEPA will
be reviewing the fluoride water quality standards in the future.
If you have any other questions or comments regarding this subject or any other aboa -' the City's drinking
water please feel free to contact me. I appreciate the information Mayor Matt Hayed shared from your
correspondence.
sincerely,
E Moreno
Iowa City Water Superintendent
V,
CC: Rick Fosse; Tom Markus; Matt Hayek
r
-` -I 4 CITY OF IOWA CITY
47 0*- MEMORANDUM
Date: July 14, 2014
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Wendy Ford, City Council Economic Development Committee
Re: Recommendations from City Council Economic Development Committee
At their July 14, 2014 meeting the City Council Economic Development Committee approved
the February 10 minutes with the following recommendation to the City Council:
1. Payne moved to recommend the request for financial assistance from Film Scene per
staff recommendation. Hayek seconded the motion. Motion carried 3 -0.
2. Hayek moved to recommend the request for an Economic Development grant to assist
Meta Communications in their expansion and relocation per staff recommendation.
Payne seconded the motion. Motion carried 3 -0.
3. Payne moved to recommend the request for a CDBG Economic Development Loan to
Butter, a new breakfast and lunch restaurant, per staff recommendation. Hayek
seconded the motion. Motion carried 3 -0.
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 - DONE
IP12
MINUTES APPROVED
CITY COUNCIL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
FEBRUARY 10, 2014
CITY MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL, 8:00 A.M.
Members Present: Susan Mims, Michelle Payne, Matt Hayek
Staff Present: Wendy Ford, Tracy Hightshoe, Jeff Davidson, Tom Markus, Steve
Long, Eleanor Dilkes
Others Present: Taki Mullins (Butter); Adam McLaughlin (Midwest One Bank); Bob
Long (MetaCommunications); Dan Cilek (Meta Communications);
Aly Brown (Press- Citizen); Andy Brodie (Film Scene); Bill
Thomasson (Film Scene); Laura Bergus (Film Scene); Mark Nolte
(ICAD); Nancy Quellhorst (Chamber)
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
Payne moved to recommend the request for financial assistance from Film Scene
per staff recommendation. Hayek seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3 -0.
Hayek moved to recommend the request for an Economic Development grant to
assist Meta Communications in their expansion and relocation per staff
recommendation. Payne seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3 -0.
Payne moved to recommend the request for a CDBG Economic Development Loan
to Butter, a new breakfast and lunch restaurant, per staff recommendation. Hayek
seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3 -0.
CALL MEETING TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Mims at 8:01 A.M.
WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS:
Chairperson Mims welcomed everyone and asked that those present introduce
themselves for the minutes.
CONSIDER APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
The first action was to review the minutes of the September 3, 2013, Economic
Development Committee meeting. There was no discussion.
Payne moved to approve minutes from the September 3, 2013, meeting as
submitted.
Hayek seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3 -0.
EDC February 10, 2014 2
APPROVED
CONSIDER REQUEST FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FROM FILM SCENE
Ford gave the background on this request. As noted in the packet information, two
separate studies have indicated a strong desire for movie theaters in the downtown
district. Two years ago, Andy Brodie and Andrew Sherburne approached the Planning
Department with plans to start an art house cinema that would fill this void. Staff worked
with Brodie and Sherburne to find the right space for this vision. After two years, the two
began to work with Marc Moen on the possibility of creating some space in the old Vito's
location for an initial venue. By this time, they had formed their board of directors,
incorporated as a non - profit and begun to raise funds.
Ford noted that Film Scene has been doing well, exceeding some early expectations,
but they still require financial assistance. As with many non - profit arts organizations,
they count on two sources of income — contributed funds (donations) and earned
revenues (ticket sales and concessions). Film Scene's projections are conservative in
terms of fundraising and tickets sales, and there will be a deficit for the first three years
of operation. Ford noted that Film Scene has requested three years of funding to get
them through until they can operate without a deficit. They have requested a declining
amount of $35,000 in FY15; $25,000 in FY 16 and $15,000 in FY17. This total of
$75,000 would reduce Film Scene's projected deficit of $179,000 at the end of the three -
year period, and also require a combination of additional fundraising and for them to
obtain an operating line -of- credit from their bank.
Ford noted that movie -going is an activity that helps to fill an entertainment void
downtown. She recalled for Members the rehab improvements made to the building,
and the assistance the developer received, specifically for replacing the roof, the HVAC
system, and adding an elevator in view of the future potential for the building as a non -
alcohol entertainment, retail and office venue in the ped mall. She noted the developer,
in turn, is helping Film Scene by providing a below- market rent rate for them. Ford also
referenced two the Council's strategic planning priority goals of having a vibrant urban
core and engaging in strategic economic development activities, and said that
supporting this request is aligned with City Council's Strategic Planning Priorities.
Andy Brody then addressed the Members. He said that they have been pleased with the
success of Film Scene so far. Film Scene has been open full -time for almost three
months now, and they have been averaging more than 40 people per show, and as of
this morning, have sold 5,770 tickets since opening full -time. He added that they now
anticipate 25,000 admissions in their first year of being open full -time, about 7,000 more
than their original projections.
Brody noted that they have a predominantly non - student membership program where
members pay an annual fee and receive $5.00 admission to all regular programming.
Normally tickets are $8.50 each, with a $7.50 price for a matinee, $6.50 for seniors 60 +,
and $6.50 for University of Iowa students. They also hope to extend this discount to
Kirkwood College students in the future. Brody noted that about 700 to 800 of the
admissions were U of I students. The IndieGoGo (a web -based crowd sourcing)
Campaign netted around 225 members and a fundraising total of $91,000. So far more
than 900 individuals have made contributions to Film Scene through either the social
media campaign or through the Founder's Circle campaign and Film Scene has over
350 annual paying members currently.
EDC February 10, 2014 3
APPROVED
Brody then responded to Members' questions about the jobs at Film Scene. There are
currently two full -time and one part-time employee, in addition to six part-time box office
staff and four part -time projectionists. Box office and concession staff starts at $7.50 an
hour plus tips, and shift managers make $8.00 while projectionists make $10.00 hour.
The head projectionist's pay is at $12.50 per hour, with the salary for the executive
director is $35,000; $30,000 for the operations director; and $15,000 for the part-time
marketing director. Payne asked if the possible minimum wage increase will have much
effect on Film Scene, and Brody stated that they have not looked at those numbers yet.
Hayek noted that the Board of Directors for Film Scene is packed with talent, adding that
this really gives him confidence for their success. He asked about fundraising for the
near future and how Film Scene plans to deal with this going forward. Brody responded,
noting they plan to increase membership in their $1,000 Founder's Circle level. Mims
then asked what impacts are expected if the College /Gilbert Street project moves
forward with Marc Moen. Brody noted that they did do a Letter of Intent to be included in
the project when it was first being discussed, and added that they hope to have the
College /Gilbert project as an expansion of Film Scene, not a replacement. As far as he
knows, the developer intends to keep the theater at the College /Gilbert Street location.
Brody also spoke to how he hopes to host a film festival one day, and that in concert
with the Englert and the eventual Chauncey project, they would be well on their way to
being able to host a substantial film festival.
Payne asked for an explanation of the difference between Scene 1 and Film Scene.
Brody explained that Scene 1 is more akin to a nickname and refers only to the space at
118 E. College. It is as much a marketing tool as anything. With no further discussion,
Chairperson Mims asked for a motion.
Payne moved to recommend the request for financial assistance from Film Scene
per staff recommendation.
Hayek seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3 -0.
CONSIDER ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GRANT TO ASSIST META
COMMUNICATIONS IN THEIR EXPANSION AND RELOCATION:
Steve Long spoke to the Members regarding this grant request, noting that Meta
Communications is a software development company based in Iowa City. They have
thousands of customers all over the world, and have been housed in Iowa City since
1991. They also have offices in Chicago and St. Petersburg, Russia. Long stated that
Meta has outgrown their current space on South Gilbert Street and has been looking for
something in the downtown area. Due to several factors, namely the cost of staying
downtown, Meta began to look elsewhere. Long stated that they began to work with
Meta to help them stay in Iowa City as this is where they truly wanted to stay as they
expand their operations. One of the issues was the cost of parking for their employees.
Long stated that they came up with a way to assist by providing parking permits over a
three -year period and a declining number of permits over subsequent years, if their
goals to add 20 more employees were met. Another need is high -speed internet,
something currently missing in this area. Long noted that the City is working with South
Slope to provide the fiber optic line needed for this high -speed capability.
EDC February 10, 2014 4
APPROVED
Long continued, explaining the costs for the Meta Communications' expansion. They
are currently looking at purchasing three floors. The actual purchase will be made by a
separate entity who will then lease back to Meta Communications. Looking ahead, Meta
plans to have 53 employees by the end of three years. Hayek asked about the total cost
to the City for this request, and Long explained. Over a 10 -year period, there would be a
$222,720 value for the parking permits, plus the requested $58,000 of the total $300,000
build out costs. Long stated that staff is recommending approval of the funding request.
Payne stated that she thinks it sounds like an exciting project and she looks forward to
having this downtown. Markus added that it shows the company's commitment to
downtown, as well. Bob Long from Meta added that they want to stay in Iowa City, that
having the University has been helpful for them as a feeder program and keeps the
talent coming. Hayek added that this is exactly the kind of creative class office
environment they are wanting downtown and that he supports it fully. Payne asked for
further clarification on the parking contract and how that will work. Staff explained.
Hayek moved to recommend the request for an Economic Development grant to
assist Meta Communications in their expansion and relocation per staff
recommendation.
Payne seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3 -0.
CONSIDER REQUEST FOR CDBG ED LOAN TO BUTTER, A NEW BREAKFAST
AND LUNCH RESTAURANT:
Tracy Hightshoe introduced the next item and applicant, Taki Mullins and his lender, who
were both present. She gave a brief description of the proposed restaurant, noting they
hope to open by June. It will be a breakfast and lunch restaurant. Startup costs are
estimated at $125,000. Midwest One has offered a financing commitment for $50,000
with the condition that the applicant could secure a $25,000 CDBG economic
development loan and put up $15,000 in cash. The landlord is willing to put in a $25,000
building allowance for some of upgrades. Hightshoe noted that the owner has consulted
with the Small Business Development Center process and has worked out the initial staff
concerns. The restaurant will create about 18 positions — three full -time staff at $10 -
$12 per hour and two full -time cooks. The rest of the jobs will be part -time. Staff is
recommending a $25,000 loan over seven years at 0% interest. Mims asked the owner
what brought him to Iowa City. He responded that he has always wanted to open a
gourmet -type breakfast and lunch restaurant. Markus asked what security there would
be for this loan, and Hightshoe noted that it is secured by a bank UCC lien.
Hayek asked if Hightshoe could give some history on how they have handled such
requests in the past for restaurants. Hightshoe noted that $20,000 to $35,000 has been
loaned in the past, typically capping out at $35,000. When interest rates were higher
they would charge more for such loans, but now with rates so low, they have been doing
0 to 1 %. Hightshoe explained how businesses such as this go through the Small
Business Development Center's evaluation before they can be considered for such
requests. Mims agreed that this will be a great addition to the Riverfront Crossings area.
Hayek added that this is one of the riskier types of loans we do, but that is inherent in
economic development. Markus asked that Hightshoe to give some background on how
many defaults they have had on such loans. She said none since 2006, and that one
party is still paying them back, even though they defaulted. Markus added that they
have had very good luck with restaurants using this grant program.
EDC February 10, 2014 5
APPROVED
Payne moved to recommend the request for a CDBG Economic Development Loan
to Butter, a new breakfast and lunch restaurant, per staff recommendation.
Hayek seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3 -0.
UPDATE ON THE STATUS OF AGREEMENT TO ESTABLISH COMMUNICATION
PROTOCOL FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY IN THE THREE
JURISDICTIONS OF IOWA CITY, CORALVILLE, AND NORTH LIBERTY:
Markus gave an update on his efforts to get an agreement between Iowa City, Coralville,
and North Liberty on how we communicate and cooperate regarding economic
development activities. He noted this is going to take a bit longer to do than he had
originally hoped. Hayek asked what other cities in the state have such agreements.
Markus noted the Quad Cities do and much of the language used in the initial draft is
from that, in particular, the part about businesses moving from one jurisdiction to
another. Another issue we have emulated is "Recruitment by Proxy," when a city gives a
developer an incentive, and the developer goes out and does the recruitment and
disbursement of the incentive. Markus noted that Mason City, Cedar Rapids and
Hiawatha have such agreements. As for the name of this agreement, Markus stated that
they softened this a bit as it was originally called an "Anti- Piracy Agreement." Mims
stated that she hopes they continue to move forward with this, and she noted the
Connect Five agreement. She also thanked staff for the work they have done with
companies to find accommodations in Iowa City to keep them here. Hayek stated that he
agrees this is a good document, and one that is fair to all jurisdictions, but he agrees that
they face challenges in getting the other jurisdictions to buy into it. Markus used JECC
as an example, noting that this was one of those issues that faced an uphill battle, and
yet now it is being touted as an exceptional model. Markus stated that Mark Nolte has
been included in the conversation, which helps to give some perspective to the bigger
picture.
COMMITTEE TIME:
Mims stated that she would like to have a discussion on the I -JAG program. There has
been a request for support of this program, and Mims stated that the question then
becomes — do we, as a City, support this work, and if so, where do the funds come from.
She believes they need to have a discussion regarding where these funds will ultimately
come from.
STAFF TIME:
Report on Tourism Improvement Districts — Ford stated in November, the CVB
invited city managers to a statewide DMO Association meeting to listen to a keynote
speaker who spoke about tourism improvement districts, or TIDs. Ford further
explained noting that it is a district formed by petition by those within the district to
assess additional funds for marketing tourism in their communities. She said that the
speaker was an attorney who has been part of an advisory group helping other
states enact laws that would allow such activity in their states. Ford said currently
five or six other states have been using such districts for increasing their tourism
promotion.
EDC February 10, 2014 6
APPROVED
EntreFest 2014 Conference & Sponsorship — Ford talked about EntreFest, a
conference that is going to be hosted in downtown Iowa City, May 14, 15, and 16,
with a hoped for attendance of 500 people who are entrepreneurs, intra - preneurs or
economic development people for three days of learning, meeting and mingling. She
noted that the City Manager's office approved a $2,500 sponsorship for this event.
The Creative Corridor with Amanda Styron and her group are the event organizers.
Real Estate Broker for Industrial Park — Ford noted that they are currently in
negotiations with a real estate broker who will be listing the industrial park on 420th
Street. Staff feels confident this broker will be able to bring some new businesses to
the industrial park. Hayek brought up how they need to be very conscious of buffers
in this area as things develop in the industrial park, the new school is built, and more
residential areas are developed as well. Davidson explained how the Southeast
District Plan covers this with a required greenway that will serve as this type of
buffer. The area will be a public green space that can allow for the transition from
industrial to residential. He added that if Council were interested they could go over
this plan at a work session.
CDBG Economic Development loans — repayment update — Hightshoe noted that
currently they have 16 businesses in various stages of repayment. Over the past
year $55,000 has been repaid, and these funds are reinvested in the CDBG account.
Discerning Eye just paid off their loan, and Alphie's Beauty Supply will probably pay
off their loan next month.
ESRI Market Data Information Sheets — Hightshoe noted that back in October of
2012, ESRI offered municipalities the ability to run 33 reports before deciding if they
wanted to order the service. She added that the service is quite expensive so staff
did not recommend it. However, staff did run 33 reports and they coordinated with
the National Development Council about what businesses, especially site selection
or developers, they would want to see in an area before they invest. Ten areas were
done throughout Iowa City, according to Hightshoe. She further explained what the
reports show — such as in a given area, what are the consumers like, how do they
spend their money. She noted how accurate the reports appear to be. Hightshoe
continued, explaining each page of the report and highlighting sections of particular
interest to the Members. She noted that the information will be on the City website
and the Economic Development web page for the public to look at.
Davidson then noted the Court/Linn site — staff is preparing the RFP and hopes to
get this out in March. Since the last discussion on this project, staff has updated the
parking demand figures for downtown in Riverfront Crossings, and now believe that
with the partnership with Midwest One Bank and the LLC that will be doing the
housing project on the Harrison Street site, that there is currently not a need for
another public parking facility. Demand numbers are down slightly, according to
Davidson, and permit waiting lists are shorter. Regarding the Midwest One Bank
project, Davidson shared that the rehab of the historic building and the construction
of the new building are both proceeding. Once the new office tower is completed,
the joint venture part of the Harrison Street project will begin.
Davidson stated that the University hopes to have an RFP out in March on bringing
the Art Museum downtown. They are interested in the downtown and Riverfront
Crossings areas.
Davidson shared that the two new buildings in Towncrest are occupied and open
now. There is one small retail space still available. The Williams Street streetscape
project should wrap up in the spring, according to Davidson. The Hospice is
proceeding with their facade improvement program, as well. Davidson stated that
EDC February 10, 2014 7
APPROVED
these improvements have had the desired effect — other businesses are now
interested in the Towncrest area and are looking into relocating there.
• Regarding the Chauncey project at Gilbert and College, Davidson noted that Marc
Moen has continued discussions with them on that project as he completes his Park
at 201 project.
• The project that was discussed for the Mumm's site on Riverside Drive was pulled by
the developer, according to Davidson. Staff has been in touch with the developer
who states that they are just making some slight changes and plan to come back
with plans shortly. This is for a mixed -use building with retail on the ground level and
40 residential units above it.
• The Packing and Provisions Buildings, formerly known as Vito's won an award from
the Thousand Friends of Iowa under 'best practices for historic rehab buildings.'
• Davidson then noted the project at 700 S. Dubuque coordinated by the 404
Development Group is waiting for a State grant program to reopen, hopefully around
April 1. The State has indicated that they stand a good chance of accessing these
funds.
• Davidson added that the 404 Development Group is also working with New Pioneer
Co -Op on property east of the Rec Center. There will be more information on this
soon.
Hayek noted that when they were in Washington, D.C. last week they spoke about the
possibility of grant funding for their Transit building, due to the nature of that site and the
need for relocation of it. Davidson noted that they have been in touch with some of the
national franchise businesses, but that due to timing issues with relocation, have not
accelerated the redevelopment process. Mims added that what they heard in D.C. last
week didn't sound good as far as what kind of funding might be available for such a
project. Markus stated that they have also started conversations with other transit
facilities in the area to see if they are interested in working together.
Steve Long added that the NCAA swim meet has chosen Iowa City as its host city next
March. There is a committee consisting of staff, the UI Athletic Department, the CVB,
and the Downtown District to make sure they feel welcome. There will be several
thousand visitors from around the country.
OTHER BUSINESS:
None.
ADJOURNMENT:
Payne moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:20 A.M.
Hayek seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3 -0.
EDC February 10, 2014 8
APPROVED
Council Economic Development Committee
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2013-2014
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
TERM
a>
a
o
N
NAME
EXP•
(Ii
�Ji
w
Michelle
01/02/14
X
X
X
X
Payne
Matt
01/02/14
X
X
X
X
Hayek
Susan
01/02/14
X
X
X
X
Mims
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
I r 1
_.:. ®�,
CITY OF IOWA CITY
MEMORANDUM
Date: July 14, 2014
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Wendy Ford, City Council Economic Development Committee
Re: Recommendations from City Council Economic Development Committee
At their July 14, 2014 meeting the City Council Economic Development Committee approved
the April 1 minutes with the following recommendation to the City Council:
1. Payne moved to recommend the request for financial assistance from the Mission Creek
Festival per staff recommendation. Hayek seconded the motion. Motion carried 3 -0.
2. Payne made the motion to recommend approval of the updates to the Economic
Development Policies as discussed. Hayek seconded the motion. Motion carried 3 -0.
3. Hayek made the motion to deny the request for assistance from I -JAG. Payne seconded
the motion. Motion carried 3 -0.
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 - DONE
uf -J51-14
IP13
MINUTES APPROVED
CITY COUNCIL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
APRIL 1, 2014
CITY MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL, 8:00 A.M.
Members Present: Susan Mims, Michelle Payne, Matt Hayek
Staff Present: Wendy Ford, Tracy Hightshoe, Jeff Davidson, Tom Markus,
Eleanor Dilkes
Others Present: Andre Perry, Mission Creek;
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
Payne moved to recommend the request for financial assistance from the Mission
Creek Festival per staff recommendation. Hayek seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3 -0.
Payne made the motion to recommend approval of the updates to the Economic
Development Policies as discussed. Hayek seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3 -0.
Hayek made the motion to deny the request for assistance from I -JAG.
Payne seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3 -0.
CALL MEETING TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Mims at 8:01 A.M.
CONSIDER APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Minutes of the February 10, 2014, Economic Development Committee meeting were
reviewed. Payne noted that on page 3, in the paragraph where it states: "Payne asked
for an explanation of the difference between Scene One and Film Scene... ", and she
questioned the way this is worded. Ford stated that she would work on this wording and
will resubmit the minutes for the Committee's approval.
CONSIDER REQUEST FOR ASSISTANCE FOR MISSION CREEK FESTIVAL:
Ford introduced the item, noting that Mission Creek will be embarking on their ninth
annual festival this year. She briefly spoke to Members about the history of the festival
and how well it has been accepted. This year there will be an expansion of youth
activities and also the addition of a high -tech component with a lecture and a mini -tech
conference at the Englert Theatre. The request is for $5,000, and Ford noted that there
are funds in the Economic Development fund that could cover it. She invited Andre
Perry to speak to Members about the festival. He thanked the Members for their help
over the years, and began to explain what they can expect with the upcoming festival.
He added that this year is the biggest expansion of programming they have had, with the
high -tech component and working with local entrepreneurs and tech folks to bring that
EDC April 1, 2014
side of creativity to the festival. There will also be a full - fledged film component and
youth activities, according to Perry.
Perry noted that about 30% of their funds continue to be contributed income, while about
70% is earned income through ticket sales. Payne asked Ford about the Economic
Development fund and if this will be replenished July 1 with the new fiscal year. Ford
noted that it would be. Mims stated that she believes this event to be successful and
that it attracts people from around the region and beyond. Hayek agreed, stating that he
believes this is an excellent event for the City to invest in. He suggested that it be
included in long -term economic development funding.
Payne moved to recommend the request for financial assistance from the Mission
Creek Festival per staff recommendation.
Hayek seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3 -0.
CONSIDER UPDATE TO IOWA CITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT POLICIES:
Davidson noted that these policies are continually reviewed and refined in accordance
with the Council's perspective on these issues. He stated that the City Manager wanted
to make sure that these policies reflect the Council's strategic plan objectives.
Therefore, after the Council's meeting in January where they reviewed their strategic
plan, staff has refined economic development policies to reflect the Council's objectives.
By doing this, Davidson stated it gives staff and developers a better guide to work with
when looking at projects.
Davidson continued, noting that staff just wanted to quickly step through these to see if
the Committee agrees with the policies being proposed. Mims brought up the cover
letter on staff's packet info, noting that it shows February 10 in the third paragraph. She
questioned if this shouldn't be April 15`, today's date. Ford noted that this issue was
previously scheduled to be discussed at the last meeting, but that there were a couple of
issues left to work out, so it was deferred. Markus and Davidson noted that other
communities handle their requests for financial participation in a less formalized way.
Iowa City uses a gap analysis to help determine funding requests. This can cover TIF
assistance, parking funds, land sale and acquisition, etc.
Davidson discussed the policies. Payne asked about the focus on the developer's
return. She stated that when she read this, she thinks it appears to convey our interest
in the developer making a profit. She finds this wording lacking clarity. It was suggested
to use `scrutiny' in its place. Davidson continued the review, noting that use of TIF
rebates shall be considered highly preferable to cash up front. Dilkes proposed that in
the last sentence, "...upfront financing... additional security is required," to eliminate the
word 'additional' and move this sentence down to the paragraph at the bottom of the
page. Then on the second page, where the bullets are, it should note "all or some," not
"all" in the objectives. Davidson added that the final three bullets at the bottom of the
page are to provide additional clarification and information about the City's processes.
Payne noted that on the last page, top paragraph, the last few words say '...as
determined by the City Council.' She questioned this, stating that it is more what the
EDC April 1, 2014
staff has determined and the Council has approved. Davidson noted that they can clean
this up. Then the last bullet, under `comprehensive planning,' Payne questioned if this
shouldn't say 'strategic plan.' Davidson suggested they add "strategic plan" to this, in
addition to the comprehensive. Hayek added that also in this section, if we shouldn't
consider the order of these bullet items. Markus suggested adding wording that states
they are not in order of priority.
Davidson continued to discuss the policies of the City, noting that when they are up
against other states and areas for business competition, they need to be flexible in their
approach. He reiterated how these various projects and initiatives are taken from the
strategic planning document. Members continued to discuss ways to incent
development and ways to remain flexible while still accomplishing the overall goals and
objectives. Davidson noted that if the Economic Development Committee approves
these changes to the policy, it can then go before the full Council for approval.
Members continued to ask questions of staff concerning how they approach their work
with developers and how much the City can and cannot control. Mims spoke to the
perception that the public has with development and how much involvement the City
has, and she questioned ways to get the information and processes more accessible
and into the public realm. Dilkes suggested publishing more detailed analysis, showing
why such decisions have been made.
Payne made the motion to recommend approval of the updates to the Economic
Development Policies as discussed.
Hayek seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3 -0.
CONSIDER REQUEST FOR ASSISTANCE FOR I -JAG:
Mims stated that she is the one who asked to put this item on the agenda. She believes
they should remove this request at this time, until I -JAG gets their fundraising formalized
and other entities become a part of it. Currently other municipalities are not taking part
in this assistance. She added that they have growing private support. She asked if City
High still has the one class, and Ford noted that they have two classes now, with the
hope to start a third at West High. Hayek asked if they applied for assistance from
United Way, and Ford stated that they did not. Members continued to discuss this
situation, with staff noting what funding stream would be best for continued support.
Ford stated that they should respond to I -JAG, and she reiterated that they should go
through the Johnson County United Way joint funding application process, which will
begin again in the fall.
Hayek made the motion to deny the request for assistance from I -JAG.
Payne seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3 -0.
REVIEW ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FUND BALANCES:
Ford stated that this report focuses on three funds — Aid to Agencies, Community
Development, and Economic Development. She noted how each fund is different and
EDC April 1, 2014 4
has unique purposes. Ford and Markus then responded to Members' questions about
various line items. There was consensus this report was helpful.
Davidson then stated that he wanted to have Hightshoe report on the Building Change
program. She noted that they currently have a balance of $47,000 in the CDBG
Economic Development Fund for small business loans, and then they will have an
additional $100,000 coming in July 1St. The plan is to put $25,000 towards small
business loans, in conjunction with the $75,000 for minority or those that might not be
CDBG eligible, and then they can put up to $93,000 into the Building Change program.
Hightshoe shared that a lender recently approached her about being in a partnership
where the City would manage money that the bank provides as low- interest loans to
expand the Building Change program. This money could only be used for facade
improvements in the downtown urban renewal area, and could be used for sustainability,
energy efficiency, and upper -floor renovations. Hightshoe stated that two other banks
have also shown an interest in this program. Mims asked if Hightshoe had sought the
credit union's interest on this program, in addition to local banks. Hightshoe stated that
she had not done this yet, but would.
COMMITTEE TIME:
Payne asked if staff had an update on the Chauncey project. Davidson noted
negotiations are going well, and the gap analysis is moving along. Dilkes has started the
preliminary work on the development agreement. Davidson noted the various aspects of
this project — FilmScene, a bowling alley, restaurant, office space, and a variety of
residential units.
Hayek asked if what he has heard is true about some possible partnership with the Co-
Op behind the Rec Center. Davidson stated that they are in the middle discussions with
a developer, and a gap analysis is underway and there will be more to come.
Hayek commented that the Sheraton's lighted sign is missing multiple letters, and he
questioned how they could address this since it is a private property. Davidson stated
that staff could contact the hotel.
Hayek also stated that he has seen some recent press regarding some start-ups out of
Iowa City that have received some pretty hefty loans from the State. He said we should
keep our eyes on these businesses as they have some influential people on their
boards, signaling keen interest. We want to be sure to keep these businesses in town.
Payne asked if we had secured a broker for the industrial park. Davidson said yes.
Hayek said he wants to ensure, as the park developed out, that there is a good buffer
between the industrial and residential neighborhood to the north. Davidson stated that is
the plan. Davidson and Markus continued to talk about this industrial area, further
explaining how the rail system is meant to work.
Payne asked if the University has put out their RFP for the Art Museum. Davidson
stated that they are getting ready to do so, and that there is a "pre -RFP release" meeting
on April 10 that staff is planning to attend. Davidson stated that he met with the
business manager of the University and that learned there were just a few sites of
interest to them and that the University does have interest from the owners of these
sites.
EDC April 1, 2014
OTHER BUSINESS:
Davidson noted that residents of the Peninsula area may be present at the Council's
meeting regarding getting a flood -proof access to their area so they will not have to
contend with another possible evacuation in the future. He added that they have been in
contact with the property owner, Mr. Cole, and have been trying to develop a plan for the
development of his property. Markus noted that the cost of putting in such a road must
be weighed with possible development in the area, and discussions continue. Davidson
continued with his updates, noting that the park planning is underway in Riverfront
Crossings. They have the flood mitigation grants that they need and are moving forward
with the planning. Streetscape planning will be starting soon for Riverside Drive,
according to Davidson, so they can be ready as development begins to take place there.
In April, the Planning Department hopes to get to the RFP out for the Court-Linn
property. Midwest One has started back up on their construction. Dilkes has been
working hard on the Harrison ramp and townhouses project that will be next to the
Midwest One Bank building. Davidson noted that they have been in constant contact
with City Carton. Sycamore Mall has also been in touch with the City quite a bit as they
work on filling their vacancies. The Jefferson Hotel project is still active. The Van Patten
property that burned down is seeing some movement. A new project may be the
Unitarian Church and possible redevelopment of their property. Markus noted the City
may be interested in partnering in some way, with the need for more office space.
Davidson noted that Towncrest rehab continues to move along well with continued
interest in the area.
ADJOURNMENT:
Payne moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:18 A.M.
Hayek seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3 -0.
EDC April 1, 2014
Council Economic Development Committee
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2013-2014
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
TERM
a
-4
0
N
A
NAME
EXP.
o
w
o
W
W
W
Al
A
Michelle
01/02/14
X
X
X
X
X
Payne
Matt
01/02/14
X
X
X
X
X
Hayek
Susan
01/02/14
X
X
X
X
X
Mims
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
E IP14
MINUTES PRELIMINARY
CITY COUNCIL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
JULY 14, 2014
EMMA HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL, 8:00 A.M.
Members Present: Susan Mims, Michelle Payne, Matt Hayek
Staff Present: Wendy Ford, Jeff Davidson, Tom Markus, Eleanor Dilkes, Dennis
Bockenstedt, John Yapp, Geoff Fruin
Others Present: Marc Moen (Moen Group); Steve Rohrbach (Rohrbach Associates);
James Phelps (Rohrbach Associates); Tom Jackson (National
Development Council); Mark Nolte (ICAD)
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
Payne moved to recommend the financial assistance request for The Chauncey to the full
City Council. Hayek seconded the motion. Motion carried 3 -0.
Payne moved to accept staffs recommendation to deny financial support for
Entrepreneurial Development Center, Cedar Rapids. Hayek seconded the motion. Motion
carried 3 -0.
CALL MEETING TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Mims at 8:04 A.M.
CONSIDER APPROVAL OF FEBRUARY 10, 2014 MEETING MINUTES:
Payne moved to approve the minutes as presented. Hayek seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3 -0.
CONSIDER APPROVAL OF APRIL 1, 2014 MEETING MINUTES:
Payne moved to approve the minutes as presented. Hayek seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3 -0.
CONSIDER APPROVAL OF FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR THE CHAUNCEY:
Jeff Davidson addressed Members regarding a request for financial assistance for The
Chauncey. He gave a brief history of the project to date, and explained that the project is ready
to move forward. One of the first things to enable Council consideration of City financial
assistance in the project is to amend the downtown Urban Renewal Plan to include it. Davidson
explained that process will begin at the Council meeting on July 15 with a Resolution of
Necessity for the City- University Project 1 Urban Renewal Area, Amendment #12.
Davidson described the project and a financial structure that has been negotiated between City
staff and the developer of The Chauncey, which, if approved by Council, would be memorialized
in a Development Agreement. He stated since the earlier stages of the project, there has been
one significant change — a reduction in height from 20 stories to 15 stories. Davidson spoke
further about the zoning change needed — from P (Public) and CB -5 for the MidAmerican
City Council Economic Development Committee
July 14, 2014
Page 2
property, to CB -10 (Central Business District). Davidson noted that parking for the residential
part of the project will be provided in a subterranean parking area. Davidson noted that the
project will displace the Bike Library, which has been known since the project was initiated. He
stated that the hope is to create a retail -like area in the ground level that can accommodate it.
Davidson then discussed TIF (tax increment financing) and how a project requesting TIF is
evaluated. He stated that the main guides for staff are the Council's Strategic Plan and the
Economic Development (ED) policies. Projects undergoing financial gap analysis must be
aligned with Council's Strategic Planning Priorities and with the Economic Development
policies. Noting elements of the ED policies, Davidson cited the requirement for high quality
architectural and site design and that Rohrbach and Associates PC, a local firm, has designed
The Chauncey project -- and brought a model for display at the meeting. Another element of
the ED policies is that energy efficiency and sustainability features must be included. The
developer has noted that the building will be built to LEED Silver standards.
As part of the financial analysis, Davidson noted that the developer will be purchasing the
property from the City along with the subterranean rights for a geothermal field to be installed
under Chauncey Swan Park. Davidson explained the financial gap of $14.2 million includes
$12.1 million for the building plus $2.1 million for the property and the subterranean rights for
the geothermal system. He explained $14.2 million is the financial gap in the whole project, but
because the Developer will pay $2.1 million to the City for the property and subterranean rights,
those funds will be used to reduce the amount of TIF needed to $12.1 million.
Davidson reiterated some of the goals of the project — affordable housing, the Iowa City Public
Housing Program will purchase five units; creation and retention of high - quality jobs, with almost
39,000 square feet of Class A office space, there will be the potential for quality employment
opportunities; developer equity equal to or greater than the public financing requested,
Davidson noted that this can be seen in the report from Mr. Jackson, as can the breakout of the
remaining financing of the project; redevelopment of underutilized or blighted property —
Davidson stated that staff supports the designation of this parcel as blighted and in need of
redevelopment; and also, projects should achieve public purposes, as detailed in the
Comprehensive Plan, Urban Renewal Area planning documents, and /or City Council Strategic
Plan — Staff does believe that all three of these are accomplished by this project.
Davidson then focused on the Chauncey Swan Park, stating that the park will be enhanced at
the completion of the project. Its improvement will benefit the entire community, and special
care is planned to spare the Farmers Market from as much disruption as possible during
construction. The developer has indicated that he is committed to spending up to $500,000 for
the reconstruction of Chauncey Swan Park as part of the project.
Summarizing, Davidson noted that staff is seeking a recommendation for the financial
assistance structure presented. This arrangement would then be incorporated into a formal
Development Agreement that will come to the full City Council for approval. The current
estimate is that this will be a $49 million project — a 15 -story mixed -use building, including movie
theaters, a bowling alley, lobby /gallery space, Class A office space, a 35 -room hotel, and eight
floors of condominiums and apartments.
Davidson then responded to questions from Members.. Hayek asked what the anticipated
payback period would be for this TIF request. Davidson referred the question to the Finance
Director Bockenstedt who noted that they continue to refine the numbers and right now are
City Council Economic Development Committee
July 14, 2014
Page 3
looking at a 20 to 25 year period. Davidson further explained the significance of the potential
TIF increment on a parcel that has not generated property taxes in decades. Payne asked if the
$2.1 million is for the sale of the property, plus the subterranean rights, which Davidson
affirmed. Payne also asked about fire protection, and whether the Fire Department has trucks
that can reach 15 stories. Davidson noted that there are special fire code requirements for
buildings of this height, and he asked if Moen or Rohrbach could respond. Both responded,
noting that in high- rises, the stair towers are pressurized to keep smoke out, thereby allowing
firefighters to attack fires on higher floors as needed, without being inundated with smoke.
There are also communication systems throughout the building and stair towers to aid in such
situations, as well as stringent codes for sprinkler systems.
Davidson asked if Members would like any further information. Payne asked if the $500,000 for
Chauncey Swan Park's reconstruction is part of the $49 million. Moen confirmed that it was.
Hayek asked if they could get further information regarding the gap analysis. Davidson then
asked Tom Jackson from the National Development Council to join them at the table so that he
could further discuss his report. He noted that NDC's philosophy in assisting cities for almost 45
years, is to ensure there is no undue enrichment of the developer if the City is to be a financial
partner. Their analysis uses projections that are supported by the market study the development
team was required to procure. NDC agrees with these projections in terms of rents for the
residential units and rents for the other areas of the building. An 'as complete' appraisal will
confirm the capitalization rate, an important part of the evaluation. NDC can substantiate a
$14.2 million gap. Two key contributors to the gap are the uses in the commercial portion of the
project that Council had favored — the film theaters and the bowling alley.
Jackson continued, noting that in modeling this gap analysis as with other projects, such as
Park at 201, they treated the project almost exclusively as a 'rental' project, while recognizing
that Moen and his team are also going to offer units for sale. This has the effect of keeping the
gap smaller than if 'for sale' units were factored into the model. Jackson noted a level of comfort
with the analysis of this project and this developer, given the developer's experience. As the
design process moves forward and bidding takes place, numbers will be refined, according to
Jackson, but in terms of what they know at this time, NDC believes the developer has
demonstrated a need for gap financing assistance in the amount shown in the report. Mims
asked what the timeframe is on building and occupancy. Moen stated that completion of the
residential component is hoped to be two years after commencement. Mims asked how far out
that might be. Moen responded that they hope to begin the project in 2015, with the residential
section done in two years and commercial completed in two and a half years. Mims then asked
about the affordable housing piece of the project, and whether it will be part of the agreement.
Moen responded that it will be. She then asked if this should be written more as a Right of First
Refusal, with the parameters as they currently are. Mims further explained, noting that they are
beginning to see development in the Riverfront Crossings area, also with affordable housing
possibilities. She questioned if they shouldn't require affordable housing units on more of a
contingency basis. Davidson noted that there are several other projects in the works where
they are also considering affordable housing components, helping to scatter these units
throughout the community so they are not concentrated in just one area.
Hayek stated that he would like Jackson to explain what NDC does, its relationship with the
City, how long the relationship has been in place, and to put some context to this arrangement,
as far as services the City has received. Jackson responded, noting that the City first
contracted with NDC after staff became familiar with NDC's finance certification courses about
three and a half years ago. The scope of services that NDC is contracted to provide include
City Council Economic Development Committee
July 14, 2014
Page 4
analyzing the debt capacity and equity attraction of proposals that are presented for
development assistance. This analysis helps to determine if sources of private debt and equity
have been maximized before public debt is considered and whether the developer's equity and
equity of other investors is enough. NDC then looks at the rationality of developments costs,
pulling all of this information together to see if the total costs, less the available debt and equity,
leave a financing gap that is reasonable for the City to consider in order to reach stated
community goals. NDC is performing these services in 100 other communities across the
country, according to Jackson.
Jackson noted that NDC's is a quantitative analysis including a focused look at the financial
character of the developer's request. The goal is to determine whether or not it's a reasonable
request. The qualitative or policy considerations, such as influencing the mix of uses, provision
of affordable housing, additional market -rate housing, office space, etc., are left to the City to
make. Davidson noted that the City has an annual contract with NDC for services at roughly
$6,000 a month. Davidson added that Jackson or another representative of NDC is on -site three
days a month, per the contract, and are available to us by phone and email 7 days a week.
Mims asked if the developer, Marc Moen, had anything to add. He reiterated that this is a
partnership and spoke highly of being able to work with the City staff to come up with the best
possible project for this space. He added that when going from 20 to 15 stories, they tried to
keep all of the good qualities that made this project special from the beginning. Moen talked
about Film Scene and how the collaboration with them began at the Vito's building. He stated
that they have been doing well and he believes will continue to be a benefit to the downtown.
Hayek and Payne both spoke highly of the project and what has been laid out as the blueprint
for moving forward. Mims agreed, stating that there has been a lot of discussion about the use
of TIF, but that Iowa City's use has always been in a very responsible manner. She added that
the long payback isn't ideal, but that the benefit of this project to the public will be worth it. Mims
also spoke highly of NDC's recommendations in this process, and how this helps assure her
that the decisions they are making at the Council level are sound ones.
Hayek stated that he will support this. He spoke highly of the City's financial standing and its
history of TIF use in the area of economic development. He noted that they could take a
passive approach to development in the downtown area, but that this would not produce the
results they are seeking as they look at their Strategic Plan goals and objectives. This type of
development partnership is an opportunity to set the bar and to continue what has been a string
of impressive projects for the City. The character of this project, hits upon several of the City's
objectives — office space, community space, environmental leadership, density, and affordable
housing, he said.
Payne moved to recommend the financial assistance request for The Chauncey to the full
City Council. Hayek seconded the motion. Motion carried 3 -0.
CONSIDER REQUEST FOR FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR ENTREPRENEURIAL
DEVELOPMENT CENTER (EDC), CEDAR RAPIDS:
Ford noted that Members have a memo in their packet regarding this request from the
Entrepreneurial Development Center. This is an organization that has been around for several
years now, helping startups in the Corridor. This is their third request for funding from the City.
Ford stated in 2007 they requested $15,000. The Economic Development Committee at that
time decided to defer a decision on that request due to the new relationship EDC had begun
City Council Economic Development Committee
July 14, 2014
Page 5
with ICAD, an organization the City funds. At that time, committee members were unsure of
how much involvement EDC would have with the southern portion of the Corridor. In 2009, the
group requested $20,000 annually, and the City again deferred this request due to budgetary
concerns and a lack of detailed information. This March, the group approached the City
Manager's office with a request for $25,000 for the remainder of this calendar year, and then
$50,000 per year for the next five years. She stated that staff still has the same concerns, one -
- that the City funds are even more limited now, and two, that staff is not clear on the actual
number of businesses in Iowa City that have received assistance from EDC. Ford stated that
staff would require more detail about the finances of the group and does not have enough
information to recommend the request for funds.
Hayek asked if staff had requested further information in the past to no avail. Ford confirmed.
Mims added that she is comfortable with staff's recommendation to not grant this request.
Other Members agreed.
Payne moved to accept staffs recommendation to deny financial support for
Entrepreneurial Development Center, Cedar Rapids. Hayek seconded the motion. Motion
carried 3 -0.
UPDATE FROM IOWA CITY AREA DEVELOPMENT GROUP:
Mark Nolte, ICAD president, addressed Members, quickly reviewing ICAD's accomplishments
over the past five years. To date, they have worked on 21 projects, which have created 877
new jobs that are at or above the county average. Continuing, Nolte stated that technology is
on the forefront. He talked about some of the growing industries, such as wind energy, and
natural and organic products. Medical biotech is another strong industry in this area.
Technology in the vehicle industry is thought to be one of the next big changes, according to
Nolte, and ICAD is working with leaders around the state and nation to position itself for such
changes.
Nolte stated that they have drafted a proclamation that the City Attorney's office is reviewing. It
says that Iowa City is open for these companies and industries are welcome to come here for
the automotive automation industry. He noted they are working with the Chamber of
Commerce, the Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Downtown District, and others to market
the area as the place for automotive automation research and development. Nolte also noted
the CoLab and its success. There are at least five other companies on a waiting list for space at
the CoLab. Members spoke briefly with Nolte about the success of ICAD and how they are
critical in helping to bring the talent we need to this area, as well as to keeping the talent that
comes out of the University. Hayek thanked ICAD and the Chamber for what they do, noting
these updates are helpful to the Committee.
STAFF UPDATES:
Davidson noted that the University has received proposals for their Art Museum project. They
have asked the City to collaborate with them in the evaluation and selection of a preferred
developer for this project. This will take place in August or September of this year, according to
Davidson. In regards to the old St. Pat's School site in Riverfront Crossings, the deadline for
proposals for this site is 4:00 P.M. July 16. Davidson stated that included in the RFP was a
request for space that the City would like for some of the business incubation /applied research
opportunities that are coming out of the University, as well as businesses that are outgrowing
City Council Economic Development Committee
July 14, 2014
Page 6
the CoLab and need more space. Davidson noted that staff have travelled to the University of
Illinois and Iowa State University to see research park facilities that are affiliated with the
universities. Davidson talked next about the Harrison Townhouses and parking project, a
partnership involving Midwest One Bank, stating that it will be coming to the Council soon, as is
the hotel project planned for the Hieronymus Square property. Lastly, Davidson noted that the
Sycamore Mall, or the Iowa City Market Place, as it is now known, will have an announcement
soon on a new anchor tenant for the mall. He added that staff does anticipate the group will
need some assistance from the City in enhancing the facilities, but specifics are as yet
unknown.
Ford shared that work continues with the real estate listing agency in marketing the industrial
park. She also noted there will soon be an amendment to the Riverside Drive Urban Renewal
Area on the Council's agenda.
Hayek asked about what is happening in the Towncrest area. Davidson noted that there is
interest in the property directly to the south of the two new buildings. He added that the
streetscape project is done, and that staff hope to continue it in the area. Ford stated that there
are a few tenants of this area that are exploring the possibility of a joint venture to build a new
building, but that the project is still in the early stages of consideration. Davidson stated that
staff continues to work with the Town and Campus Apartments owner. Hayek asked about the
old Kerr McGee site at Muscatine and First. Davidson stated that one of the owners is not
interested in selling, even though two others are.
COMMITTEE TIME:
None.
OTHER BUSINESS:
None.
ADJOURNMENT:
Payne moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:11 A.M. Hayek seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3 -0.
City Council Economic Development Committee
July 14, 2014
Page 7
COUNCIL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2013-2014
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
TERM
°w
-4
w
N
o
�
NAME
EXP.
`w
a
3
`o
Michelle
01/02/14
X
X
X
X
X
X
Payne
Matt
01/02/14
X
X
X
X
X
X
Hayek
Susan
01/02/14
X
X
X
X
X
X
Mims
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
`Iv
0
0
0
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N
FF
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O
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IP16
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE JOHNSON COUNTY
CRIMINAL JUSTICE COORDINATING COMMITTEE:
JUNE 4, 2014
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Update and Direction Regarding Addressing the Needs of the Courthouse, Including but Not
Limited to: Design of a Courthouse Annex, Cost Estimate, Bond Referendum, Vacation
of Harrison Street, Public Education and Outreach and other Related Issues ...........................1
Update and Direction Regarding Addressing the Needs of the Jail, Including but Not Limited
to Plans and Process for Necessary Repair and Maintenance Projects and Other Related
Issues............................................................................................................ ..............................2
Reports and Updates from Subcommittees ........................................................ ..............................2
Membership and Structure of Committee and Subcommittees .......................... ..............................2
Additional Comments from Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee Members ..........................4
Chairperson Neuzil called the Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee to order in
the Johnson County Administration Building at 4:30 p.m.
Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee Members present were: Supervisor
John Etheredge, Supervisor Pat Harney, Supervisor Terrence Neuzil, Supervisor Janelle
Rettig, Supervisor Rod Sullivan, Department of Corrections Supervisor Jerri Allen,
MECCA Director Ron Berg, Iowa City City Council Member Kingsley Botchway II,
Iowa City Public Library Adult Service Coordinator Kara Logsden, County Attorney
Janet Lyness, Bar Association Representative James McCarragher, County Sheriff Lonny
Pulkrabek, Sixth District Judge Douglas Russell, Citizen Representative Professor
Emeritus John Stratton, and Consultation of Religious Communities Representative
Dorothy Whiston.
Absent: Public Defender's Managing Attorney Peter Persaud.
UPDATE AND DIRECTION REGARDING ADDRESSING THE NEEDS OF THE
COURTHOUSE, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO: DESIGN OF A
COURTHOUSE ANNEX, COST ESTIMATE, BOND REFERENDUM,
VACATION OF HARRISON STREET, PUBLIC EDUCATION AND
OUTREACH AND OTHER RELATED ISSUES
Executive Assistant Andy Johnson said the Board passed a resolution setting the bond
referendum language and setting the bond referendum vote for November 4th, the
General Election. Johnson said the proposed floor plan of the Courthouse annex is on the
County website. He met with Neumann Monson Architects Principal Kim McDonald and
Venture Architects Design Director and Principal John Cain about how to structure the
public input meetings scheduled for June 17th. Johnson said there will be various
representations of the interior and exterior of the Courthouse annex on display at the
County Fair.
Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee Minutes: June 4, 2014/ page 2
Sullivan said the Board of Supervisors are prohibited from campaigning on this
referendum and from using County resources or public funds to promote the referendum.
Citizen groups may form to promote the effort and the Board would like to be informed
of such meetings.
County Attorney Janet Lyness said the Board of Supervisors as a government entity
cannot campaign or use County resources. But as individuals, Board members may take
a public position on the referendum without using any County resources or public funds.
UPDATE AND DIRECTION REGARDING ADDRESSING THE NEEDS OF THE
JAIL, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO PLANS AND PROCESS FOR
NECESSARY REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE PROJECTS AND OTHER
RELATED ISSUES
Johnson discussed the design proposal for Jail security upgrades submitted by
Venture Architects. The Board is scheduled to vote on this proposal at tomorrow's
formal meeting
Board members said approximately $1.5 million is budgeted in FY15 for security
repairs /upgrades in the Jail. These upgrades will help maintain a standard required for the
Jail to remain open.
REPORTS AND UPDATES FROM SUBCOMMITTEES
Harney said the Facilities Subcommittee has not met but that Johnson has been in
contact with General Services Administration (GSA) representatives to discuss the
proposed contract to swap property for parking spaces. Johnson said GSA's legal staff is
reviewing the proposed contract.
Sullivan left at 4:45 p.m.
MEMBERSHIP AND STRUCTURE OF COMMITTEE AND SUBCOMMITTEES
Johnson said he will draft a letter to the mayors of the Cities of Coralville, North
Liberty, and University Heights inviting them to have representation on the Criminal
Justice Coordinating Committee (CJCC).
Lyness said the Jail Alternatives and Treatments Subcommittee will discuss how to
address Disproportionate Minority Contact (DMC) and present a proposal to CJCC
members.
Iowa City City Council Member Kingsley Botchway II said he believes their is a
weakness in public awareness and outreach and suggests expanding CJCC's efforts at
informing the public. Neuzil suggested utilizing social media to engage community
members and to speak at various organization, such as the Kiwana's and Rotary Club, and
on radio programs.
Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee Minutes: June 4, 2014/ page 3
Sixth Judicial District Judge Douglas Russell suggested including someone from the
Public Defender's Office, Clerk of District Court Kim Montover, and County Facilities
Manager Eldon Slaughter. The Johnson County Bar Association has designated Tom
Maxwell and Peter Gardner to participate in this process.
Neuzil suggested Iowa City Downtown District Executive Director Nancy Bird and
then asked for an update on representatives from the University of Iowa (UI). Lyness
said they should reinstate a representative from UI Student Government and someone
from UI administration. Harney said they should invite a representative from the UI
Department of Public Safety.
Consultation of Religious Communities Representative Dorothy Whiston said she
would like to address DMC by creating a separate subcommittee. Botchway said he is
concerned with duplication of efforts with respect to DMC and his inclination is to
address adult DMC through a CJCC subcommittee. Lyness agreed.
Botchway said he would like to serve on the Jail Alternatives and Treatments
Subcommittees and a diversity/DMC subcommittee.
Russell and MECCA Director and CEO Ron Berg agreed and spoke about the
longevity of the DMC and the Jail Alternatives and Treatments subcommittees.
Rettig asked about the Committee's intention to recruit new members from the public.
Johnson County Bar Association Representative Jim McCarragher said Tom Maxwell
is designated to serve as the Johnson County Bar Association representative and would
be a good addition to the CJCC. UI Student Government liaison Evan McCarthy would
like to serve as Drew Lankin's replacement.
Motioned by McCarragher and seconded by Etheredge, to appoint Tom Maxwell and
Evan McCarthy to the CJCC, and to appoint Peter Gardner to the Public Information
Subcommittee. Motion carried unanimously.
Rettig noted they are trying to recruit more people to serve on the CJCC and
wondered if they should invite applications online. Johnson summarized decisions they
made at the last CJCC meeting regarding this matter and committee members agreed to
recruit a number of additional people for committee and subcommittee service.
Deputy Sheriff Brian Kahler agreed to serve on the DMC Subcommtitee.
Crime Prevention Officer Jorey Bailey agreed to serve on the Jail Alternatives and
Treatments Subcommittee and DMC Subcommittee.
Johnson County resident Mike Carberry said he would gladly serve on a
subcommittee if needed.
Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee Minutes: June 4, 2014/ page 4
Motioned by Rettig, seconded by Botchway, that the CJCC advertise to recruit two
new community members to the CJCC and for new members on each of the
subcommittees, and to send letters to the cities of Coralville, North liberty, University
Heights and to the UI Department of Public Safety requesting they appoint someone to
the CJCC. Motion carried unanimously.
Citizens opposed to the proposed Courthouse annex bond referendum are encouraged
to attend CJCC meetings.
The next CJCC meeting is scheduled for July 2nd at 4:30 p.m. and will continue to
meet on the first Wednesday of the month. Neuzil encouraged subcommittees to meet
before July 2nd.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS FROM CRIMINAL JUSTICE COORDINATING
COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Johnson said a letter pertaining to Harrison Street has been sent to the City of Iowa
City City Manager Tom Markus, and Assistant County Attorney Andy Chappell is
working with them on this matter.
Harney noted that this design places the facility on Harrison Street and on the
Courthouse property. It is adjacent to the GSA property, not on the GSA property.
Rettig noted that attendance at the Forum on Racial Disparities In Youth was standing
room only. Whiston said the audio is available online.
Botchway inquired about the community ID program.
Adjourned at 5:32 p.m.
Attest: Travis Weipert, Auditor
Recorded By Hannah Paul
Finalized on July 30, 2014 at 1:45 p.m.
0 7 -3/ -Ife
IN 7
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE JOHNSON COUNTY
CRIMINAL JUSTICE COORDINATING COMMITTEE:
JULY 2, 2014
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Update and Direction Regarding Addressing the Needs of the Courthouse, Including but not
Limited to: Design of a Courthouse Annex, Cost Estimate, Bond Referendum, Vacation
of Harrison Street, Public Education and Outreach and other Related Issues ...........................1
Update and Direction Regarding Addressing the Needs of the Jail, Including but not Limited
to Plans and Process for Necessary Repair and Maintenance Projects and other Related
Issues............................................................................................................ ..............................2
Reports and Updates from Subcommittees ........................................................ ..............................3
Update on Membership and Structure of Committee and Subcommittees ......... ..............................3
Chairperson Neuzil called the Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee to order in
the Johnson County Administration Building at 4:33 p.m.
Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee Members present were: Supervisor
John Etheredge, Supervisor Pat Harney, Supervisor Terrence Neuzil, and Supervisor Rod
Sullivan, MECCA Director Ron Berg, Iowa City City Council Member Kingsley
Botchway 11, Iowa City Public Library Community and Access Services Coordinator
Kara Logsden, County Attorney Janet Lyness, County Sheriff Lonny Pulkrabek, UI
Student Liaison Evan McCarthy, Clerk of District Court Kim Montover, and
Consultation of Religious Communities Representative Dorothy Whiston.
Absent: Department of Corrections Supervisor Jerri Allen, Public Defender's Managing
Attorney Peter Persuad, Sixth Judicial District Judge Douglas Russell, JC Bar
Association Representative James McCarragher, Citizen Representative Professor
Emeritus John Stratton, and Supervisor Janelle Rettig.
UPDATE AND DIRECTION REGARDING ADDRESSING THE NEEDS OF THE
COURTHOUSE, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO: DESIGN OF A
COURTHOUSE ANNEX, COST ESTIMATE, BOND REFERENDUM,
VACATION OF HARRISON STREET, PUBLIC EDUCATION AND
OUTREACH AND OTHER RELATED ISSUES
Neumann Monson Architects President Kim McDonald said that the public input
sessions on June 17th highlighted concern for respecting the historic elements and
preserving the view of the Courthouse. McDonald presented a new design for the
Courthouse annex which he said incorporates public feedback from those meetings.
There is less square footage in the new design but the floor plan is more efficient.
Harney asked how this design would incorporate jail space in the future. McDonald
used the design plans to show the best site for a future jail, or even Courthouse
expansion.
Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee Meeting Minutes: July 2, 2014/ page 2
Venture Architects Design Director and Principal John Cain participated via
teleconference to comment on public access to the Clerk of Court's office. Clerk of
District Court Kim Montover said they need a secure area for public access to the
Electronic Document Management System.
Harney and Neuzil said they are concerned that the downward sloping ramp leading
form Harrison Street to the Courthouse annex basement will collect water and ice
buildup. McDonald said there are ways to address that concern.
McDonald addressed questions about the number of public entrances, about public
and maintenance elevators, and staff entrances and access. They also discussed vertical
versus horizontal expansion.
Facilities Subcommittee Larry Wilson advised on working out landscape
fundamentals prior to finalizing the design.
County Sheriff Lonny Pulkrabek asked about the stability of the Courthouse during
construction. McDonald discussed stabilizing techniques to secure the Courthouse.
Botchway said he would update the Iowa City planners and Iowa City Downtown
District Executive Director Nancy Bird. He also asked about the distance between public
parking and the Courthouse annex entrance.
Iowa City Public Library Community and Access Services Coordinator Kara Logsden
addressed handicap accessibility and noted the IC Public Library has a wheelchair
available for public use at the entrance.
Rettig said she would like to know the cost difference to frame out the rest of the
basement. McDonald said they can bid that as an alternate.
McDonald answered additional questions regarding parking, secure staff entrances
and other security measures, Courthouse renovations, drainage mechanics for the
Courthouse annex roof, LEED certification, exterior facade, sound systems, natural
lighting, the overall budget and public green space.
Committee Members discussed why the Courthouse annex was voted down in prior
elections, public perception and releasing information to the public at the County Fair.
Supervisor Neuzil asked Neumann Monson Architects to compile their information
and email it to CJCC Members not present today.
UPDATE AND DIRECTION REGARDING ADDRESSING THE NEEDS OF THE
JAIL, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO PLANS AND PROCESS FOR
NECESSARY REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE PROJECTS AND OTHER
RELATED ISSUES
Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee Meeting Minutes: July 2, 2014/ page 3
Neuzil said the Board allocated approximately $1.45 million for repairs and updates
to the Jail and primarily for the locking system, electronics, and communications
equipment. Repairs to the generator and the roof still need to be addressed.
REPORTS AND UPDATES FROM SUBCOMMITTEES
Neuzil said the Public Information and Outreach Subcommittee reviewed and updated
the current public information documents to ready them for the website. They expect to
send a press release with updated information at the time of the Johnson County Fair.
Also, they contacted some members of the Johnson County Bar Association to involve
them in public relations and outreach efforts.
Public Information and Outreach Subcommittee Member Mike Carberry added they
would like to expand the Subcommittee membership to include members of the public
who previously opposed justice center proposals.
Neuzil said the next Public Information and Outreach Subcommittee meeting is
scheduled for July 30th at 4:30 p.m.
UPDATE ON MEMBERSHIP AND STRUCTURE OF COMMITTEE AND
SUBCOMMITTEES
Neuzil said CJCC members should encourage residents to participate on committees
and subcommittees to gain new perspectives before the November 4th General Election.
Neuzil said the Local Option Sales Tax referendum will impact the outcome of the
Courthouse annex referendum.
Executive Assistant Andy Johnson said they are accepting applications through July
18th for appointments to the CJCC and various subcommittees.
Neuzil said the next CJCC meeting is scheduled August 6th at 4:30 p.m.
Adjourned at 6:03 p.m.
Attest: Travis Weipert, Auditor
Recorded By Hannah Paul
Finalized on July 30, 2014 at 1:45 p.m.
IP18
Joint Cities Meeting
Tiffin City Hall, 300 Railroad Street
Monday, July 28, 2014
City Administrator Jackson (Tiffin) called the meeting to order at 4:31 p.m.
Attendance: Louise From(University Heights), Ryan Heiar (North Liberty), Gerry Kuhl (North
Liberty), Coleen Chipman (North Liberty), Terry Donahue (North Liberty), Ellen Habel
(Coralville), John Lundell (Coralville), Tom Gill (Coralville), Ellen Habel (Coralville), Tom
Markus (Iowa City), Matt Hayek (Iowa City, Susan Mims (Iowa City), Kingsley Botchway II
(Iowa City), Rick Dobyns (Iowa City), Jim Thorgmorton (Iowa City), Geoff Fruin (Iowa City),
Sam Hargadine (Iowa City Police Department), Misha Goodman (Iowa City), Janelle Rettig
(Johnson County Board of Supervisor), Pat Harney (Johnson County Board of Supervisor), John
Etheredge (Johnson County Board of Supervisor), Rod Sullivan (Johnson County Board of
Supervisor), Terrence Neuzil (Johnson County Board of Supervisor), Attorney Janet Lynes
(Johnson County), Auditor Travis Weipert (Johnson County), State Representative Mary
Mascher, Chris Lynch (Iowa City Community School District), Tim Kuehl (CCA School
District), Tracey Achenbach (Housing Trust Fund), Kent Ralston (MPO), Steve Berner (Tiffin),
Michon Jackson (Tiffin), Jim Bartels (Tiffin), Joann Kahler (Tiffin).
LOST discussion: Presentation by Susan Mims about Iowa Cities decision to apply for LOST
funding which included: creation of a committee, ballot language, property tax reform
legislation, impacting revenues, valuations of residential vs. commercial, multi - residential class
impacts (FY 17), creation of exemption for telecommunication companies, slows taxable growth,
lowers taxable values, treats multi- residential property as residential, strategies: revenue
diversification, emergency funding, controlled spending. Property tax comparisons per cities,
hotel /motel tax revenues, utility franchise rate, comparisons for utility rates, some other cities
can get casino revenues, voting procedures: the contiguous cities count as a block— bigger cities
are on own voting, feasibility: based on population (75 %) & property taxes collected (25 %),
estimated LOST distribution of funds to each city, should pursue LOST county -wide, cities
requesting a 10 year sunset, will be on general election in November. Kingsley Botchway:
(informally requested) 10% of LOST go to affordable housing and & senior population. Johnson
County Board of Supervisors collectively requested 10% of LOST to go to the Courthouse. The
Johnson County Housing Trust Fund discussed affordable housing and Low to Moderate Income
housing ( "LMI").
Johnson co courthouse annex: Terrence Neuzil discussed the bond referendum and that the
courthouse is a community problem, not just Johnson county. County is asking for support from
the cities of 10% of LOST funds. Education needs to happen so people know what they are
voting for. Board of Supervisors at this time is unsure of the sunset for the LOST. Ballot
language from all cities to the Auditor by August 27th. Travis Weipert indicated all cities need to
support this initiative to make this work. Cities requesting 10 year sunset on LOST. Johnson
County is going to hold a public hearing on August 14th on this topic.
Iowa City Animal Shelter Presentation: The groundbreaking had a good turnout. The project was
bid twice because first run pricing was too high. Second bid for the 11,370 sq. ft. (expandable)
building that will be completed by 08/31/15 is around $3.2 Million. It will have several areas:
evaluation, sick, surgery, etc. The Foundation has raised around $975,000.
Iowa City School District construction projects: Penn Elementary renovation and addition
started, Hoover Elementary adding HVAC and security items, Alexander Elementary
groundbreaking a few weeks ago (by Sycamore area), West High athletic improvements (turf &
track renovations), both high schools will get modulars to handle enrollment. The new school
can hold 1,000 students. Twain and Van Allen will be rebid to reduce costs. Next year:
Coralville renovation, Hills renovation and another floor to City High.
Clear Creek Amana School District construction projects: Amana School is getting air
conditioning, The new Tiffin Elementary has most of the grading completed and planning on
pouring footings next week, the middle school will have a pre - construction meeting soon as well.
There is a committee working on redoing boundaries. High School enrolment is around 570 and
the capacity max is 600 students. The High School is expandable to adapt to 900 kids.
Flood recovery projects /updates: Terrence Neuzil indicated starting to reduce river outflow in
Iowa City today. Working on creating a forum on how to handle the levels at the reservoir.
Ireland Avenue (Tiffin): Mayor Berner stated the IA DOT opened bids, pricing came in
$800,000 more - around $3.2 million. Will be awarded in August by Council.
Affordable housing: Rod Sullivan and Kingsley Botchway both indicated this is a high priority
issue in Johnson County. Kent Ralston with Metropolitan Planning Organization ( "MPO ") of
Johnson provided a brief presentation about updating the Affordable Housing Plan from 2007 by
September.
The next Joint Cities meeting will be on Monday, October 27th at 4:30 p.m. (reception at 4:00
p.m. in North Liberty.
Adjourn at 6:12 p.m.
Michon Jackson, City Administrator /Clerk
City of Tiffin
MINUTES
AD HOC SENIOR SERVICES COMMITTEE
JULY 21, 2014 — 3:30 P.M.
HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
DRAFT
Q
Members Present: Joe Younker (Chair), Jay Honohan, Rick Dobyns (arrived 3:34 P.M.),
Jane Dohrmann, Mercedes Bern -Klug, Ellen Cannon, Hiram Rick Webber
Staff Present: Geoff Fruin, Julie Voparil
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 07/07/14 — The minutes of the July 7, 2014, meeting
were discussed first. Honohan noted that he had an amendment to the minutes and
distributed a handout of his amendment before discussing it. Honohan stated that he
believes it is important for them to remember that the minutes are not a verbatim
translation of what occurred at a meeting, that minutes are a summary of the meeting.
Honohan continued, noting that sometimes if they do not speak up loud enough, items
can be missed. Before continuing, Honohan paused as Member Dobyns arrived so he
could be part of the conversation. Continuing, Honohan read his proposed amendment
(see handout). Bern -Klug did note that there were a couple of typos in the amendment
that need to be corrected.
b. Correspondence — (1) Jack Hobbs; (2) Bonnie Love; and (3) SEATS questions
( Dohrmann — email response from Transportation Director; (4) Stan Smith; (5) Deb
McCarthy
Honohan moved to accept the Consent Calendar as amended and with late handouts,
seconded by Webber. Motion carried 7 -0.
DISCUSSION OF SENIOR CENTER EVALUATION SUBCOMMITTEE REPORT:
Younker noted that at the last meeting it was requested that the Senior Center Evaluation
Subcommittee come prepared with a proposed timeline and some information about how this
evaluation will take shape. He added that there also is some budget information that the
subcommittee received. Bern -Klug began the review, noting that she, Honohan, and Webber
make up this subcommittee. They have met twice now and have decided to design their report
in direct response to what the City Council has asked regarding the Senior Center. They will be
relying on documents that have already been developed, by both the Senior Center and the
national accrediting group that accredited the Center last year. Also used will be the survey that
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
July 21, 2014
Page 2
the Center performed of members, non - members, and Center participants. The subcommittee
plans to meet again next week to add more detail. Younker asked if anyone had any questions
at this point for the subcommittee. He asked if the subcommittee has a sense of when they will
have a draft of their report for the rest of the Committee to review. She responded with mid -
August, and Honohan agreed, stating that the meeting on August 18 is probably going to be
their target date. Bern -Klug asked if they should have their draft report to Karr for the August 18
meeting packet, and Younker agreed they should. At that meeting the Committee as a whole
can discuss the report and ask for further information, if necessary, as they get a sense of what
information they have. Dohrmann thanked the subcommittee for their work, adding that she
looks forward to seeing their draft report.
REPORTS FROM CONTACT MEMBERS RE: LOCAL AGENCIES / CONSORTIA:
Elder Services - Dohrmann stated that she met with several staff and was able to gather the
information that the Committee is seeking. She highlighted some of the areas of her report,
noting that for the services that Elder Services does provide, 90% of the clients are homebound.
Elder Services considers themselves to be a lifeline for these types of individuals, especially
when they are seen on an almost daily basis. Also noted, 75% of the Elder Services' clients
make less than $24,000 per year. Elder Services told Dohrmann that they would like to be able
to expand their services, that there is a need for care management, for example. Honohan
stated that he believes they need a more detailed budget from Elder Services, one that would
show, for example, how much money they receive from each of their sources. Dohrmann stated
that she did ask for this information and has not yet received anything, but that she will follow -up
on this.
Younker then thanked Dohrmann for her work on this, noting that they did have a rather large
packet for this meeting. Because of this, the pages are numbered and are referred to on the
agenda. Younker then brought up that on page 27, in Dohrmann's report, a reference is made
to increased partnerships between the Senior Center and Elder Services. He asked if Elder
Services provided any more detailed information regarding this. Dohrmann responded that
Elder Service's staff's primary concern is that the Center isn't as accessible as it could be. They
believe that the adjoining parking ramp should have more signage to the Center, and that also
the side entrance to the building should be more ADA- accessible and better signed than it
currently is. In response to Honohan's question about finances, Dohrmann stated that there is a
breakdown in the Fiscal Year 2013 Annual Report from Elder Services (distributed), on page 10,
showing funding but that it does not show specific percentages.
Dobyns asked Dohrmann what, in her best guess, is the relationship between the Senior
Center, Elder Services, and the third party that was involved in the meals program. She stated
that Elder Services is going to be partnering with Independent Living in North Liberty and will be
using the kitchen there, instead of using the Senior Center kitchen. They will have more access
in the North Liberty location, according to Dohrmann. Dobyns asked what the issue was with
the Senior Center, and Dohrmann stated that Elder Services will have 24 -hour accessibility to
the kitchen in North Liberty, which is something they need. However, the Senior Center will
remain as a congregate meal site. Elder Services has also opened an additional meal site on
the east side.
Heritage Area Agency on Aginq (HAAA) - Cannon stated that she did quite a bit of research on
HAAA online, but has still not made personal contact with either director. However, she plans to
do so before the next meeting. Members received a brief summary report in their meeting
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
July 21, 2014
Page 3
packets from Cannon, showing the merged data from both HAAA and the JCLC databases.
She noted that both entities' web sites list the agencies that they represent. She opened all of
the URLs listed and went in agency by agency to get the self- descriptions of the agencies. This
is what she put into her database for Members to review. In updating the number of service
agencies for seniors in the Iowa City area, Cannon noted that there are 115 service providers in
Iowa City, 20 in Coralville, for a total of 135. She then broke this down as 90 are `service host'
and 45 are listed as 'targeted programs' under these service hosts. Of these service providers,
30 are governmental, 38 are for - profit, and 67 are non - profit. Breaking these providers down
even further, Cannon noted that the primary services provided are medical, disability and mental
health, 93; housing, housing assistance, 24; transportation services, 14; and long -term care or
respite, 17. Dobyns asked Cannon what is meant by a 'service host.' She noted that these are
such entities as Mercy Hospital or the V.A. Hospital. Bern -Klug asked if all of these programs
receive funding through the HAAA. Cannon stated that this is one of her questions for the
director, but that from her research, the HAAA appears to be more of an information and referral
agency for seniors.
Dobyns then spoke to the financial side of this issue, noting that it's all about the money — where
does the money come from, and he questions where some of these agencies get their funding.
He noted that Honohan is right in that they need a clearer picture of each agency's financial
background. Cannon noted that the HAAA does have a posted budget on their web site, but
that it is dated 2012. She will attempt to get some updated information. Members thanked
Cannon for her preliminary report.
Shelter House - Honohan stated that he has contacted Mark Sertterh, Resident Services
Director. Shelter House basically provides emergency services to persons experiencing
homelessness. Fourteen of the beds offered at Shelter House are reserved for veterans, and
these are subsidized by the Veterans Administration, according to Honohan. Also, the
Department of Labor provides a grant to Shelter House to provide a program that helps
veterans find employment. Honohan noted that Shelter House provided emergency shelter
services to 653 individuals, 94 of them aged 55 years or older, in fiscal year 2014. There are no
specific programs for seniors, according to Honohan, but Shelter House does review each
individual's situation while attempting to develop a plan for that person to get them out of
homelessness. Seniors are assisted in finding senior - subsidized housing within Johnson
County, which has resulted in the past with getting some individuals into assisted living, some
go to live with family, and some have obtained their own apartment. Honohan stated that he
especially likes one thing the Shelter House tells its senior clients — that if they do not work, they
should become involved with the Senior Center.
Honohan then spoke to the Shelter House's budget, which was $2 million for fiscal year 2014,
which ended June 30, 2014. The funding breakdown is not complete yet, but Honohan stated
that he has quite a bit of information nonetheless. Housing and Urban Development (HUD),
$450,000; Department of Labor, $105,000; Veterans Administration, $175,000; the Iowa
Finance Authority, $120,000; United Way, $70,000; City of Iowa City, $50,000; Johnson County,
$60,000; City of Coralville, $7,000; and private donations totaled $250,000. As for the
remainder of the funds that make up the $2 million budget, Honohan stated that Sertterh did not
have that information for him yet. There are grants, corporate grants, and faith community
donations, as well as catering from the Shelter House kitchen which generates revenue for the
Shelter. Younker thanked Honohan for his report. He asked if he knows what the original
requests for funding were from Johnson County and the City of Coralville. Honohan stated that
he did not ask this of Sertterh but that he will obtain this information for the Committee.
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
July 21, 2014
Page 4
Pathways - Bern -Klug stated that she doesn't have her report written up yet, nor with as much
detail as she would like regarding the funding sources. Younker suggested she go ahead and
share what she has so far. Berg -Klug described what Pathways is — an adult health center that
provides adult day services in Iowa City. It is the only adult day services center targeted
towards seniors. Reach For Your Potential also provides adult day services for those with
developmental disabilities, but Pathways is the only provider focused on seniors. Pathways is
also the only adult day services in Johnson County. Due to funding constraints, Bern -Klug
stated that many of these service providers have had to close across the state of Iowa. There
are approximately 100 individuals per year that use Pathway's services, and on any given day
there are approximately 35 to 40 individuals at the facility. Transportation from SEATS allows
many of these individuals to attend the adult day services, according to Bern -Klug. Individuals
typically receive a meal here, and can receive personal and medical care as needed too. The
model is that a person who is not able to live independently completely may be able to stay in
his or her home setting with these support services allowing that.
Bern -Klug noted that about half of the people receiving services at Pathways have dementia.
She believes this is an issue when it comes to the way the City prioritizes senior services' funds.
She asked that this be reconsidered as there are older adults with mental health issues and
other issues that are not getting a high enough priority when put in with `senior services.' She
believes they need to have a higher level of priority as this population is at greater risk.
Including seniors into high category areas when they're part of this population will be important.
She noted that just as Dohrmann reported in her piece, much of the vulnerable populations,
such as the frail and elderly, need to have a higher priority.
Bern -Klug continued her report, stating at it costs about $60 per day at Pathways for the entire
day, per client. They do recoup most of this if an individual is eligible for Medicaid and is on the
Waiver. However, many are not eligible for Medicaid and are not on a Waiver and they have to
try and pay out of pocket. Pathways tries to work with these individuals, with some paying as
little as $15 per day, according to Bern -Klug. However, this can still be a financial hardship for
many. Pathways does receive funding from various sources — such as Heritage, United Way,
faith community grants, Iowa City Aid to Agencies, Veterans Administration, Medicaid Waiver,
fundraising, and still they face financial hardship each year, according to Bern -Klug. She added
that a larger subsidy from the City or the County, for example, could help assure that the people
who really need these services could get them, keeping these individuals out of nursing homes
and in their home environments.
Younker then asked Fruin about his presentation on Aid to Agencies and what discretion does
the City have to identify other categories or to break out specific senior services from this
broader category. Fruin responded that he believes they do have some discretion, but that
HUD defines all of the categories. Then it is up to the City to look at how best to categorize
them. Fruin added that just about every agency they fund could fit into multiple categories, but
that they have to find one specific category for each. Fruin added that with the new five -year
plan they are currently developing, they see HUD is shifting away from some of the definitions
and categories that are currently in use. Fruin stated that he would like to have Tracy
Hightshoe, who administers this program, explain to the Committee how the new plan will force
the City to prioritize, especially as it relates to senior services. This should give the Members an
opportunity to weigh in on this topic as staff works through the new plan. Fruin will plan to have
this information in the next meeting packet.
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
July 21, 2014
Page 5
Consultation of Religious Communities (CRC) — In response to Younker, Dohrmann responded
that she did speak with the Chair recently, and once they have their executive meeting in
August she should hear if she will be on their August 201h agenda. The Chair did want the
Committee to know that the CRC represents 35 congregations in the area, and that there are 80
total. Several congregations in the evangelical, African - American, and Latino communities do
not participate in the CRC, according to Dohrmann. She did share with the Chair the questions
that the Committee would be asking, and he stated that he would disseminate that before the
August 20th meeting. Bern -Klug asked why these specific groups are not a part of CRD, and
Dohrmann responded that her understanding is they have been invited to be a part.
Dobyns moved to accept the aforementioned reports from the contact members,
seconded by Honohan. Motion carried 7 -0.
Dobyns asked if he could make a comment, going back to Bern - Klug's question about the City's
preferencing in terms of senior services. He commented on how the City tries to craft its budget
according to funding streams. One example he brought up is the upcoming decrease in
highway funding from the federal government. This is one reason the Iowa City City Council is
proposing a 1 -cent sales tax to help bridge the gap in what can be anticipated in road fund
decreases. Dobyns stated that there is also information regarding funding for senior services at
the federal level, and how this Committee was formed to help find plugs for those gaps before
they become too big. He continued to explain to Members how this LOST revenue could help
keep the general fund monies available for services such as those they have been discussing.
Bern -Klug spoke to the fact that many of the people who work in long -term care, in adult day
services or nursing homes, do not live in Iowa City. She noted that they work in Iowa City, but
they live elsewhere, in part because of the cost of living. She asked if there couldn't be some
type of incentive for long -term care workers where they could get a reduced tax rate or
something like that if they were to live in Iowa City, as well. She believes this would help to curb
the turnover in such help, and would also acknowledge the important service these people are
providing. Fruin noted that generally speaking there is nothing the City could do with this, that
you can't alter the tax rate based on the occupation of a resident. He added that perhaps they
could create a program where if you showed proof of employment, you could receive a dollar
amount that had been set forth, albeit this would be a bit unusual. Fruin added that this could
be a bit of a slippery slope as there could be other occupations that fit this category as well.
Dobyns stated that Council recognizes that there is a creative class of people who need to live
close in to Iowa City in order to keep the economy and community going, even though they
cannot afford to live in Iowa City. He spoke again to the possible sales tax and how it could go
towards affordable housing for just this class of people. Honohan stated that he does agree
with the sales tax issue. Younker stated that as they speak with these various agencies they
need to find out what they see as their barriers, and if labor is one of them.
DISCUSSION OF ADDITIONAL LOCAL AGENCIES:
Younker questioned Members if as they go through Cannon's database of other local agencies
they have been able to think of some they need to add to their list. Younker stated that the Free
Medical Clinic is one he thought of. He stated that he would be happy to take this one on as he
is on their Board.
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
July 21, 2014
Page 6
Honohan moved to add Free Medical Clinic to their list of agencies, seconded by Webber.
Motion carried 7 -0.
Dobyns asked if anyone is assigned yet to MECCA or Johnson County Mental Health. Younker
stated they are not, and Dobyns stated that he would be glad to take them on. He asked if there
are any other mental health agencies he should add to this list. Cannon stated that one
underserved population for seniors, as identified on the Heritage web site, is substance abuse
services. This would be addressed through MECCA. Webber asked what Johnson County
Medical is, and Dobyns stated that it is their mental health services department. This is an
outpatient, walk -in clinic that receives very little funding through Medicaid.
Honohan moved to add MECCA to the list of agencies, as well as the Johnson County
Mental Health; seconded by Dohrmann. Motion carried 7 -0.
Dohrmann noted that while at Elder Services she did ask about their relationship with the Crisis
Center. Reportedly funding had been lost, but after Crisis Center staff advocated for
reallocating funding, they were able to get some of it back. Fruin spoke to how the funding went
this year with HCDC's allocations. He explained how this committee is tasked with dividing up
the funds available, and due to a change in prioritization, funding was cut to Elder Services.
They historically received around $50,000, but due to this change, they received only $20,000.
This recommendation went to the City Council, and after supporters spoke to the Council, the
Council made a one -time contribution from the general fund of approximately $10,000, bringing
the total up to around $30,000. Dobyns spoke to the financial streams again, noting that this is
indicative of what is to come from both federal and state funding. Bern -Klug asked if there is
some type of federal document outlining these looming cuts. Fruin stated that if it would be
helpful they could be shown the Community Development Block Grant trends over the past few
decades. This is the federal program that Iowa City receives funds for as an entitlement city,
meaning they receive funding every year of varying amounts.
Bern -Klug asked if there is something looming that they should know about. Dobyns stated that
they are talking about government and politicians, and they just don't come out and say, `We're
going to cut your funding.' He continued to speak to the subtle signs that funding is being cut in
many different areas. Fruin then spoke to federal dollars, and how these funds go to the Aid to
Agencies programs. The Senior Center does not receive CDBG dollars. There is a shrinking
pot of CDBG dollars, according to Fruin, something they have seen over the past 15 years. He
spoke then to the property tax dollars the City receives and how the State property tax reform
will impact these funds. Bern -Klug asked that Fruin speak more to this so that everyone is clear
what this means.
Fruin stated that the State passed significant property tax reform in 2013, and it will be gradually
phased in over the next 10 years. What this does is shrink the amount of taxable value for
commercial properties and for multi - family, residential properties. This change is just now
starting to impact the City's budget. Fruin continued, stating that it is anticipated that the City
will lose up to $50 million over 10 years in property tax revenues. The Senior Center is partly
funded on property taxes, just as the Police, Fire, City Manager's office, and Parks are, to name
a few. Even though the City expects to continue to see growth and an increased tax base, the
property tax reform is more than offsetting this, according to Fruin. Younker stated that he
believes it would be helpful to have the information regarding the CDBG funds — the last 15 -year
history, and also what the best predictions are for the next two budget cycles. Younker also
stated that when the property tax legislation passed, the Parks and Rec Commission had a
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
July 21, 2014
Page 7
presentation on what the impacts might be. He thinks this information would be useful, as well,
for the Ad Hoc Committee. Dobyns noted that in the July 7th packet to this Committee, at the
end of it, Fruin included a report from the National Senior Center Society. He stated that it is
somewhat lengthy, but he urged Members to take a look at it. It shows seven different models
for senior centers, as they have confronted financial problems similar to what Iowa City is and
will be facing.
Bern -Klug asked if it would be fair to summarize it as because of the State property tax
reductions in 2013, the Senior Center is going to feel the impact of the amount of funding it
receives, as well as other things. Fruin stated that he cannot say with certainty that this will
have an impact on the Senior Center's budget. Basically staff does not know how this will all
play out. What they do know is that the taxable value of existing properties within Iowa City is
going to decrease significantly over the next 10 years, and budgets are going to really start to
feel the impact. Fruin continued to explain the discretion that the Council has as it sets up its
budget, and offered to bring in the Finance Director to further explain the property tax reform
impacts in more detail, if the Committee so desired. Younker stated that he believes this would
be useful, to have the fiscal framework in place as they move forward in their recommendations.
Fruin stated that he will work on this.
Younker then asked if anyone had any further questions at this point, or any other agencies they
believe should be added to the list. Bern -Klug asked if local services for domestic violence are
prepared to handle seniors. She noted that most of the population receiving these services is
not in that age group, but she questioned if the current stock of domestic violence services are
elder - friendly. Cannon stated that she will check on this when she makes her agency contacts.
She added that she has seen this on the agency web sites, that it is an issue being addressed,
and that one of the statistics on Heritage's web site states that for every one report of elderly
neglect or abuse, 23 are not reported. Dohrmann stated that this makes her wonder about
people who may be homebound who are immigrants or undocumented citizens, and what their
needs may be. Dobyns stated how difficult this type of information might be to gather, asking
Fruin if the Human Rights Commission would be a place to go for this. Fruin stated that there
may be some contacts on the Human Rights Commission that would have some good insight.
Another avenue may be the Center for Worker Justice as they work with a lot of the immigrant
populations. Members continued to briefly discuss this issue and the possible needs of these
populations.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION (ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA):
Michael Chan, 927 Oxen Lane, stated that he and his wife are members of the Johnson County
Senior Center. Having lived in Iowa City since 1969, they have seen the many changes and
growth in the city. He spoke of the international fame the city has and also how it has been on
the forefront of senior centers since the Center's opening. Chan continued, stating that the
Center is the perfect place for students and seniors to come together. The location, next to the
parking ramp, and the handicap accessibility all contributes to make the building the perfect
place. An example that Chan shared was of how the seniors at the Center have inspired a
University of Iowa non - fiction writing student, who participated in the Center's activities for
March, April, and May of this year. She noted the "grandeur of the stories the seniors tell" in a
Press - Citizen article. Chan continued, sharing that their time at the Center is also a story that
they want to be able to tell the next generation, and he urged that the present building be kept
for the Senior Center, if at all possible.
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
July 21, 2014
Page 8
Mary Dusterhoft, 1421 Franklin St., stated that she is a Member of the Senior Center
Membership Committee and they are working on obtaining signage in the parking ramp. She
believes that some of the new signage is already up, and added that they have been working
with the City to get more signage. Dusterhoff also stated that she resents the fact that
apartment owners are going to be paying less property tax than she is, and that they make a lot
of money off their apartment buildings. She noted that it is everyone's duty to pay taxes.
Mary Gravitt, 2714 Wayne Ave. # 6, stated that after listening to their reports, she believes there
is a lot of misreporting. She started playing an audio recording of the recent City Council
meeting (July 15), noting that TIF is part of the problem here. In the recording, James Knapp is
addressing the City Council regarding his request for information regarding TIF being granted
for a Moen Group project. Honohan asked Chairman Younker if he could interrupt the
recording, stating that he believes this issue is outside of this Committee's charge. (The audio
was never finished) Gravitt stated that what this video is showing is how the City operates, that
it is not about the Moen building. She stated that this is about a senior citizen who did his
research on how the City works. Gravitt continued, stating that she is trying to show how the
City cheats the citizens, and how this man in the video is talking about this very issue. Gravitt
was asked to wrap up her time as her five minutes had elapsed. Gravitt stated that she would
return later in the meeting to speak again.
Mary Struxness spoke next to the Ad Hoc Committee. She stated that if they lose the Senior
Center, their quality of life will be seriously impaired. Also, she added that if this building were
to be converted into an office building, it's small enough that there would be no significant
revenues from it. She stated that there are some contractors building some huge buildings
currently in Iowa City, and she believes they could ask them to contribute funds to the City.
Contributions such as this are tax deductible, which would be a win for the contractors.
Honohan responded there is a rumor that the building is going to close and become office
space. It is strictly a rumor that is unfounded and has no basis in fact as far as everything he
has seen and been told and added that he would like to put that rumor to rest.
Rose Hanson asked about some agencies that may qualify for federal help that are not even
aware of this, and asked if there is a way to let these agencies know that they may qualify for
some additional help.
Larry Rogers, a resident of Ecumenical Towers, asked if the Visiting Nurses Association is part
of the Ad Hoc's list and also Legal Aid.
Mary Gravitt, 2714 Wayne Ave. # 6, stated that the supposed `rumor' of the Center closing down
came from Member Dobyns at the last meeting. Due to the City being an entitlement city,
Gravitt noted that this is because entitlements come on the backs of the poor. She also asked
about the tax on the electric bill, stating that this was to be for flood purposes. She questioned
where this money is going now that the flood is over. Gravitt continued to express her
displeasure about what people are saying, and what she is being told she can and cannot speak
to. She then spoke to Elder Services and how they have two sets of rules there. She added
that these agencies lie and lay off workers and have all kinds of sweetheart deals going on.
PENDING ITEMS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS:
None.
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
July 21, 2014
Page 9
TENTATIVE THREE MONTH MEETING SCHEDULE (first and third Monday of each
month): Younker asked the Committee if they want to keep the July 30 meeting date or not.
Cannon suggested they drop this meeting and just have their next meeting on August 4.
Dohrmann agreed, as did Honohan. Several checked their calendars for the August 4th
meeting. Honohan stated that he would prefer to have the full slate of Members at each
meeting. He asked that they keep the July 30 meeting and cancel the August 4 meeting.
Honohan moved to keep the July 30th meeting and cancel the August 4th meeting,
seconded by Cannon. Motion carried 7 -0.
July 30 — (special date)
August 4 — meeting is cancelled
August 18
September 3
September 24
ADJOURNMENT:
Honohan moved to adjourn the meeting at 5:01 P.M., seconded by Webber. Motion
carried 7 -0.
Ad Hoc Senior Services Committee
July 21, 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
0
0
NAME
EXP.
O
O
N
w
O
N
12/1/14
X
X
X
X
X
X
Joe
Younker
Jay
12/1/14
X
X
X
X
X
X
Honohan
Mercedes
12/1/14
X
X
X
X
X
X
Bern -Klug
Hiram
1211/14
X
X
X
X
X
X
Richard
Webber
Ellen
12/1114
X
X
X
X
X
X
Cannon
Jane
12/1/14
X
X
X
X
X
X
Dohrmann
Rick
12/1/14
X
X
X
X
X
X
Dobyns
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
- -- = Not a Member at this time
IP20
MINUTES
CHARTER REVIEW COMMISSION
JULY 22, 2014 — 7:30 A.M.
HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
DRAFT
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, Julie Voparil
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council
action):
None
CONSIDER MOTION ADOPTING CONSENT CALENDAR AS PRESENTED OR AMENDED:
a. Minutes of the Meeting on 06124/14 — Chairperson Chappell noted that they
have the Consent Calendar, including the minutes, to review, as well as
correspondence from four separate individuals. Dilkes requested a change on
the first page where she was speaking about hiring of Police and Fire Chiefs and
requested deleting "...these are civil service positions" and adding "there are Civil
Service requirements for the hiring of the chiefs." Kubby asked for some
clarification on the minutes, at the end where it states, "With others agreeing to
start this practice..." where referring to two -hour meetings. She added that she
does not recall this as being something agreed to for all of the meetings, just this
meeting. After discussion, Members agreed that one -hour meetings are
preferred, but that they can play it by ear as they move through this process.
b. (1) Robert Givens; (2) Russell Haught; (3) Betty Dye; (4) Caroline Dieterle —
Chappell noted that they can discuss the correspondence received if they desire.
He noted that Haught's letter speaks to term limits, and both Haught and Dye
agree there should be direct election of the mayor. Givens and Dieterle are both
advocating for changes to 'qualified' vs. 'eligible.' Kubby suggested that when
they receive such written comments that perhaps they should keep a 'tally' of
sorts. This will help to show the Members the types of comments they are
receiving, and if there are multiple individuals agreeing.
Vanderhoef moved to approve the Consent Calendar as amended, seconded by Kubby.
Motion carried 9 -0.
REPORTS FROM MEMBERS AND STAFF:
None.
REVIEW CHARTER:
a. Specific Sections addressed:
Preamble — none
Definitions — none
Article 11 — none
Charter Review Commission
July 22, 2014
Page 2
Article III — Chappell noted that in their packet they have a memo from
Dilkes concerning her proposed changes to Section 3.01. He asked if
others had anything to add or any comments they would like to make.
Kubby asked Dilkes whether or not cities are required to make State -level
changes. Dilkes responded that not with respect to these issues. Kubby
stated that she was also reviewing the information received from Karr
regarding the 10 -year history of primaries, and requested more
information on candidates who got more than 50 %. Kubby continued,
speaking to primary vs. run -off elections, and the possibility of eliminating
the need for the second election. Members agreed to request from Karr
percentages that each candidate received in that primary over the past
ten years.
Continuing the discussion, Kubby noted that the reason she is asking the
question is if it is the standard in this community that nobody gets the
50 %, then having a run -off system won't actually be of help to them.
However, if in general changing to a run -off would result in more than 1
candidate getting 50% such that a second election isn't needed, then
savings could be seen.
Chappell then steered the conversation back to 3.01 and Dilkes'
proposed changes. He asked if there is a consensus to tentatively
approve these recommendations. Vanderhoef asked why the district seat
ordinance was changed in 2005, but the at -large goes back to 1985.
Dilkes stated that she would have to go back and review the reports to
see why.
Article IV — Chappell then moved on to Section 4.03 where they left off at
the last meeting. He asked Stone to read this section for the Members.
After a brief discussion, Members agreed to tentatively approve this
section.
Chappell then began a discussion of the duties of the city manager,
Section 4.04. He asked Dilkes if any of these are part of the State code
or not, and she replied that the State code does not have this much detail.
Dilkes responded to Members' questions regarding items within this
section. Under subsection (6), Members asked how the compensation
plans work for the City employees. Dilkes responded that the
compensation plans are adopted by resolution of the City Council. She
then gave an example of how this section of the article applies. Sullivan
asked if they shouldn't add that salaries are basically under City Council
control, through resolution, and not city manager discretion. Vanderhoef
added that the budget process also provides a review of each
department's salaries and compensation packages within City direction.
Moving on to subsection (7), Chappell asked if this is the one that
changed in the last Charter review process. Kubby spoke to having a
`buy local' preference and if there is interest from others, she volunteered
to work on some language for this. Sullivan stated that he believes this is
more of a city manager preference, not something that should be put in
Charter Review Commission
July 22, 2014
Page 3
the Charter itself. Dilkes stated that there are a lot of legal hurdles to 'buy
local.' Members continued to discuss the 'buy local' policy and whether it
should be a part of the Charter. Dilkes gave some further background on
the City's purchasing policies, noting that they are adopted by City
Council resolution.
Chappell then read subsection (8), where members questioned the use of
the word `manage'. Dilkes noted that it does not necessarily mean
actually handling the project, but coordinating the functions of the various
departments — such as Planning, Public Works, etc., for a project. The
discussion continued, with Shaw asking whom other than the fire chief
and the police chief does the city manager appoint. Dilkes responded
that the city manager appoints all of the department heads.
No changes were noted in subsection (9).
In subsection (10), Sullivan asked if State law dictates what records need
to be maintained. Dilkes stated that in some respects it does.
Subsection (11) notes that it is prescribed by State law.
Chappell then moved to subsections (12) and (13) with no comments
heard.
After hearing subsection (14), Atkins stated that his only comment would
be use of the word 'business' here. This would refer to the 'affairs' or
'financial affairs' of the City. Kubby noted that anything the City does is
essentially considered 'City business,' and others agreed.
Chappell then read subsection (15), asking if there is a reason it only
states 'boards' as opposed to 'boards and commissions' here. Stone
read what the definition is of 'board' within the Charter, noting that it does
include boards, commissions, or other similar entities. Chappell then
asked a question of Dilkes regarding whether there is a provision for a
process by which individuals can petition to have the City's budget
audited by the State. She stated that auditors are here every year.
Members continued to discuss this Section, debating the list of city
manager duties and what should or should not be in the Charter. Schantz
noted that this list seems incredibly detailed. Chappell then continued the
review, going through the 'shalls' of this list. Vanderhoef noted that the
Council sets limits on the amount of a contract the city manager can
approve. Dilkes stated that the Council recently added a $150,000 limit
for the purchases of commodities, for example. Members then briefly
discussed closed session meetings versus public meetings, especially
when dealing with an employee, for example. Sullivan asked if others
agree that this needs to be a detailed list. There was consensus among
Members to tentatively approve this section.
Charter Review Commission
July 22, 2014
Page 4
Craig then read Section 4.05 to the group. Members briefly discussed
this, noting that a city manager can vote in an election, they just cannot
run a councilor's campaign or something along those lines. Members
agreed to tentatively approve Section 4.05.
Article V — After Schantz's reading of Section 5.01, Kubby noted that the
word `citizen' is in this section twice, which they previously discussed.
Chappell noted that there are several boards and commissions that are
dictated by State law — Planning and Zoning and Board of Adjustment, to
name a few. Vanderhoef brought up the Library Board, noting that often
people would ask how this board functions. She asked if they need to
mention those that are dictated by State law. Vanderhoef also
questioned why it does not state that the boards and commissions are
`advisory' in nature. She added that this helps to let the citizens know
that these boards cannot change things, but that they can make
recommendations to the Council. Dilkes noted that not all boards and
commissions are advisory. The Airport Commission is one that is not, for
example. Sullivan asked Dilkes if the boards and commissions all have a
charge or a document that states that they do. She responded that they
all have rules and policies that govern them. Sullivan stated that since
they are all so different in nature, he believes they should leave the
boards' and commissions' details out of the Charter.
The discussion continued, with Members then questioning if they don't
need to change the name of the CPRB (Citizens Police Review Board) in
this document where it previously was the PCRB. Dilkes explained how
they are handling this name change in various situations. Members
agreed that this should be updated in the Charter at this time. This led to
a discussion by some Members of how the complaint system works with
this board. Kubby suggested on #2, removing the word `citizen' here — "to
investigate claims of misconduct by sworn police officers" — that this might
help reduce some issues. Chappell then asked Members if they agree
with the removal of 'citizen's' in #1, as well as in #2, per their discussion.
There was consensus among the Members on these changes.
Atkins questioned use of the word `minimum' on subsection A — ".... the
following minimum powers ". He stated that this does not seem to fit with
the rest of it. Chappell argued that the way he sees this one is if nothing
else, the CPRB is going to do the following, noting they have a minimum
of duties that are assigned to their board. Chappell added that Council
can always add to the powers. Shaw asked if it is necessary to reference
this board in this way. Dilkes noted this was a referendum vote and is
required to be in the Charter. Atkins questioned if they shouldn't consult
with the CPRB on some of these issues. Chappell stated that it sounds
like they have some definite changes to this section. He asked if there
was consensus to tentatively make these changes. Chappell suggested
that Karr check with the CPRB on these proposed changes to see if they
have any feedback. Majority agreed to indicate the first paragraph as 'A'
and change the second paragraph (currently `A') to V.
Charter Review Commission
July 22, 2014
Page 5
Chappell then moved on to Section 5.02, which he asked Vanderhoef to
read. He questioned the 30 -day policy, noting that it was probably
adopted when the only way to advertise for these vacancies was in the
newspaper. With technology advancements, he questioned if this isn't
too long to wait. Members discussed this, with individuals on both sides
of the issue weighing in. Sullivan stated that he likes to give the Council
discretion, but not necessarily indicating a prescribed shorter period.
Chappell suggested the wording of '30 days or less' or at the discretion of
the Council. The discussion turned to requirements for advertising for
these positions on boards and commissions. Dilkes stated that having no
notice before filling a vacancy could lead to more problems than it would
solve. Dilkes also noted that since the current version of the Charter was
written a new requirement has been made — a gender balance
requirement. This can add to the time it takes to find someone to fill an
open position. Vanderhoef noted that there have also been times where
after 30 days they receive no applications, and then have to readvertise
for another 30 days. Voparil clarified that the Clerk's office does not re-
advertise 30 days. Chappell stated that this is one area where he would
like to hear from Karr, someone who is familiar with this process and has
to deal with it on a regular basis. He would like to know if Karr thinks the
30 -day window is limiting or causing too many vacancies to go unfilled.
Shaw asked, for purposes of this Charter, who is a 'citizen' as it is
referenced in 5.02. Chappell noted that this is that one item they are still
watching throughout the Charter, and they can then revisit this later and
decide how the term 'citizen' is being used here. Kubby asked if there is
any value in adding the 'gender balance' piece to the Charter itself.
Dilkes noted that the provision references State law so that stet gender
balance law applies automatically. Some conversation took place among
Members regarding the gender balance issue.
Shaw read Section 5.03 at Chappell's request. The question was raised
whether or not the rules of boards and commissions are posted on the
City's web site. Dilkes noted that the City's web site is undergoing a
major overhaul, but that this would be a good thing to consider having
available there. Atkins asked if the Council's internal rules are part of
this, such as it takes three members of Council to direct that an item be
placed on an agenda. Kubby pointed out that this section is dealing with
just boards and commissions, not the Council. Members then tentatively
approved this section.
b. Commission Discussion of Other Sections (if time allows):
Article VI — Shaw volunteered to read Article VI and its sections.
Chappell began the review with Section 6.01, noting that Dilkes probably
knew the latest Supreme Court decisions on campaign finance. She
noted that she has not read the most recent case in detail as she did not
expect the Commission to get this far today. She added that she will,
however, read it prior to the next meeting. Chappell suggested she bring
any recommended changes to the next meeting for their review. He then
Charter Review Commission
July 22, 2014
Page 6
asked Members for their review on this section, where Council currently
has set a limitation of $100 per election per candidate.
On Section 6.02, Schantz noted that the State changed Chapter 56 fairly
recently and may be working on it yet again. He spoke to contributions
for primary and general elections, and that the Supreme Court has gotten
rid of most of these rules. Members briefly discussed the issue of
campaign rules, with Dilkes noting that her review prior to the next
meeting should answer some of these questions. As Members wrapped
up their conversation, Chappell noted that they will be able to continue
their discussion of Article VI at the next meeting and will have Dilkes'
memo to help answer questions. They will also begin review of Article
VII.
DISCUSSION OF PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT:
Chappell noted that Karr wanted to speak further to this and how the Members would like to
plan their public forum meeting. He suggested they speak to this at the next meeting. Schantz
spoke briefly to their September 23rd meeting, stating that he believes they will get more interest
if there are some larger issues that the Commission has taken action on to the extent they are
able. Kubby stated that previously they had discussed this first meeting being one where the
public brings issues of interest to them to the Commission's attention. Then at a second public
forum the group would have several areas of interest that could then be addressed more
specifically. Schantz noted that the election of the mayor has already proven to be an area of
interest, at least from the correspondence received so far. Atkins suggested that this group
have a discussion themselves about this issue. Chappell noted that the thought was to first get
through a full review of the Charter, and then they can come back and have more detailed
discussions about those areas of interest.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
None.
TENTATIVE THREE -MONTH MEETING SCHEDULE (Second & fourth Tuesdav of each
month): Dilkes noted that she will not be able to attend the August 12t meeting, but that she
will prepare a memo addressing the Commission's concerns on Article VI as well as the issue
raised earlier about Article VII.
August 12
August 26
September 9
September 23 — tentative public forum.
October 14
October 28
ADJOURNMENT:
Kubby moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:26 A.M., seconded by Vanderhoef. Motion
carried 9 -0.
Charter Review Commission
July 22, 2014
Page 7
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
4
O
O
CA
O
0)
O
W
O
O
00
NAME
EXP.
co
w
c
-
N
N
06
411/15
X
X
O/
X
X
X
Steve
E
Atkins
Andy
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
Chappell
Karrie
411/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
Craig
Karen
4/1115
O
X
X
X
X
X
Kubby
Mark
411/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
Schantz
Melvin
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
Shaw
Anna
4/1115
X
X
X
X
X
X
Moyer
Stone
Adam
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
Sullivan
Dee
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
Vanderhoef
Key.
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
- -- = Not a Member at this time
IP21
Minutes
Human Rights Commission Preliminary
July 15, 2014 — 6:00 PM
Helling Conference Room
Members Present: Harry Olmstead, Shams Ghoneim, Andrea Cohen, Orville Townsend, Ali
Ahmed, Kim Hanrahan, Stella Hart.
Members Excused: Paul Retish, Joe Coulter.
Staff Present: Stefanie Bowers.
Others Present: Misty Rebik, Brittany Kimzey.
Recommendations to Council: No.
Call to Order:
Olmstead called the meeting to order at 18:00.
Consideration of the Minutes from the June 17, 2014 Meeting:
Motion: Moved by Townsend, seconded by Hanrahan. Motion passed 6 -0. ( Ghoneim not present).
MeetinE Business:
Annual Report
Commissioners reviewed the report for FY 14. The report is accepted unchanged.
Motion: Moved by Hanrahan, seconded by Ghoneim. Motion passed 7 -0.
2014 Johnson County ADA Celebration
This event is being held on Saturday, July 26 from 2 -4 p.m. on the Ped Mall. Hart and Cohen will
represent the Commission at the event. The fee is $25 for a table. The Commission will participate in
this event. Motion: Moved by Ghoneim, seconded by Townsend. Motion passed 7 -0.
Human Rights Opportunity Fair
Brittany Kimzey gave a brief overview of the Human Rights Opportunity Fair. It will be held on
Wednesday, September 17 from l lam -3 pm at the Old Capital Center. So far, 22 organizations have
confirmed participating in this event and Kimzey hopes the number will go as high as 40. One of the
purposes of the event is to bridge the gap between the community and the University and to let the
community know about some of the meaningful work that students do in the area of human rights here in
Iowa City. The Commission will participate in this event. Motion: Moved by Hanrahan, seconded by
Hart. Motion passed 7 -0.
University of Iowa Center for Human Rights One Community One Book
The Commission voted to donate to this community project. The author Reyna Grande will present in
Iowa City on Saturday, October 4 at 7:30 pm on the University of Iowa campus. The book The Distance
Between Us: A Memoir looks at how US immigration policies affect families. The Commission will
donate $200.00. Motion: Moved by Ghoneim, seconded by Cohen. Motion passed 7 -0.
Goal Setting Session
The agenda incorrectly labeled the goal setting session for FY 14, Bowers noted it should have read FY
15. Commissioners decided to hold the session on Thursday, October 2 starting at 5 pm. The alternative
date is scheduled for Thursday, October 9 starting at 5 pm. Bowers will locate a City facility to hold the
session.
Breakfast 2014
Misty Rebik, Executive Director for the Center for Worker Justice (CWJ), updated the Commission on
the status of the allegations made against the Sheraton since the Breakfast of 2013. Rebik reports that no
non - minority employees (past or present) have made any similar complaints against the Sheraton.
She also discussed that the CWJ is working on the problem of wage theft here in Iowa City.'
Some Commissioners voiced concern about consistency when doing business around town and whether
they have heard both sides of the situation with respect to the Sheraton.
Bowers mentioned that the location of the breakfast should be on the bus line. She added that last year's
ticket price was $20.
After a head count of Commissioners who would be comfortable returning to the Sheraton, Townsend
moved that the Commission check with the Iowa Memorial Union (IMU) for availability and if that is
unavailable, to use the Sheraton as the second choice for the 2014 Breakfast. Motion: Moved by
Townsend, seconded by Hart. Motion passed 4 -3. (Cohen, Hanrahan, Ahmed in the negative).
Commissioners are asked to come up with suggestions for a keynote speaker for the breakfast.
Suggestions include William "Sandy" Boyd, Adrien Wing, Burns Weston, Royceann Porter, Kingsley
Botchway, Chad Simmons, Orville Townsend, Diane Finnerty, Jim Leech, and LaTasha Massey. Further
discussion is tabled until the August meeting. Bowers will forward information on the suggested people
to the Commissioners.
Reports:
Iowa City Pride
Cohen reports the event went well.
(Olmstead left meeting)
CIVIC Visitors -Human and Civil Rights for All
Cohen reports the event went well. The subject was discrimination against the LGBT community.
(Ghoneim left meeting)
Building Blocks to Employment Job Fair
Planning meeting for job fair will be held on August 19 at noon in the Helling Conference Room.
Building Communities
Townsend reported that Black Voices met with the Iowa City Community School District's Chief Human
Resource Officer, Chace Ramey. They discussed improving the hiring process so that more minority
instructors are recruited and retained.
Commission
Ghoneim (Bowers presented) will participate in a program through CIVIC where she will meet with an
international visitor to discuss human rights here in Iowa City.
1 See Human Rights Commission Meeting Minutes of November & December 2013 for background information.
2
staff'
Bowers thanked Commissioners for their patience in getting a date selected for the Goal Setting Session.
Adjournment: 19:52.
Next Regular Meeting — August 19, 2014 at 6:00 pm.
Human Rights Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2013/2014
(Meeting Date)
NAME
TERM
EXP.
7/16/
13
8/20/
13
9/17/
13
10/15/
13
11/19/
13
12/17/
13
1/21/
14
2/18/
14
3/18/
14
4/29/
14
5/20/
14
6/17/
14
7/15/
14
Ali Ahmed
1/1/17
-
-
-
-
-
-
X
X
O/E
O/E
O/E
X
X
Orville
Townsend, Sr.
1/1/17
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
Paul Retish
1/1/17
-
-
-
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
Kim
Hanrahan
111115
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
Shams
Ghoneim
111115
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
Stella Hart
1 11 115
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
X
X
Jewell Amos
111115
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
R
R
R
R
Joe D. Coulter
1/1/16
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
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
X
X
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
- -- = No longer a member
R = Resignation
Ell