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Home My WebLink About2016-10-20 Info PacketCITY COUNCIL INFORMATION PACKET CITY OF IOWA CITY www.icgov.org October 20, 2016 IN Council Tentative Meeting Schedule 1132 Agenda October 24 JOINT MEETING MISCELLANEOUS IP3 Copy of press release: Author and walkability advocate Jeff Speck to speak in downtown Iowa City I134 Invite: Fall Open House Event I135 City Manager response to Audrey Keith email: ICPD commitment to racial equity IP6 Memo from City Clerk: KXIC Radio Show I137 Memo from City Clerk: Draft Budget Schedule IP8 Civil Service Entrance Examination — Maintenance Worker III - Streets IP9 Copy of press release: Volunteers needed next two week -ends for Iowa Riverbank environmental clean ups DRAFT MINUTES IP10 Airport Commission: September 15 IP11 Community Police Review Board: October 11 IP12 Housing and Community Development: September 15 IP13 Planning and Zoning Commission: October 6 r City Council Tentative Meeting Schedule IP1 rA Subject to change ar®,� CITY OF IOWA CITY October 20, 2016 Date Time Meeting Location Monday, October 24, 2016 4:00 PM Reception Johnson County Health 4:30 PM Joint Entities Meeting Human Services Bldg. Tuesday, November 1, 2016 5:30 PM * Work Session *(revised start time) Emma J. Harvat Hall 7:00 PM Formal Meeting Tuesday, November 15, 2016 5:00 PM Work Session Emma J. Harvat Hall 7:00 PM Formal Meeting Tuesday, December 6, 2016 5:00 PM Work Session Emma J. Harvat Hall 7:00 PM Formal Meeting Tuesday, January 3, 2017 5:00 PM Work Session Emma J. Harvat Hall 7:00 PM Formal Meeting Tuesday, January 17, 2017 5:00 PM Work Session Emma J. Harvat Hall 7:00 PM Formal Meeting Tuesday, February 7, 2017 5:00 PM Work Session Emma J. Harvat Hall 7:00 PM Formal Meeting Tuesday, February 21, 2017 5:00 PM Work Session Emma J. Harvat Hall 7:00 PM Formal Meeting Tuesday, March 7, 2017 5:00 PM Work Session Emma J. Harvat Hall 7:00 PM Formal Meeting Tuesday, March 21, 2017 5:00 PM Work Session Emma J. Harvat Hall 7:00 PM Formal Meeting IP2 Johnson JOHNSON COUNTY IOWA County BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETING AGENDA • OCTOBER 24, 2016 Conference Rooms 203 BIC Joint Entities Meeting 4:30 PM HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES BUILDING 855 SOUTH DUBUQUE STREET IOWA CITY, IA 52240 PHONE: 319-356-6000 www.JOHNSON-COUNTY.com www.JOHNSON000NTYIkIQM2.com JOINT ENTITIES MEETING BETWEEN THE JOHNSON COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS, UNIVERSITY OF IOWA, IOWA CITY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD, CLEAR CREEK AMANA COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD, AND THE FOLLOWING CITIES: CORALVILLE, HILLS, IOWA CITY, LONE TREE, NORTH LIBERTY, OXFORD, SHUEYVILLE, SOLON, SWISHER, TIFFIN, AND UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS ----- MEETING PRECEDED BY 4:00 PM RECEPTION ----- A. CALL TO ORDER: 4:30 PM B. WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS C. DISCUSSION/UPDATE 1. Presentation on walkable cities by Principal Planner Jeff Speck, Speck & Associates LLC (City of Iowa City) 2. Joint letter of support on an update to the regulation plan for the Coralville Lake/Iowa River (Johnson County) 3. Facilities Master Plan (Iowa City Community School District) 4. Legislative Priorities (Iowa City Community School District) 5. Other business 6. Schedule next meeting D. DISCUSSION FROM THE PUBLIC E. ADJOURNMENT Johnson County Iowa Published: 10/ 18/2016 03:30 PM Page 1 From: City of Iowa City <CityoflowaCity@public.govdelivery.com> Sent: Monday, October 17, 2016 8:10 AM To: Marian Karr Subject: Author and walkability advocate Jeff Speck to speak in downtown Iowa City SHRRE Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page. 10WACITY FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Date: 10/17/2016 Contact: Karen Howard, Associate Planner Phone: 319-356-5251 Author and walkability advocate Jeff Speck to speak in downtown Iowa City An international expert and advocate on the importance of making cities walkable will deliver a public lecture in Iowa City. Jeff Speck, author of Walkable City. How Downtown Can Save America, One Step at a Time will speak Monday, Oct. 24, at 6:30 p.m. at the Iowa City Public Library, 123 S. Linn St., Iowa City. This event is free and open to all. Speck is a city planner and urban designer who advocates for more sustainable cities. In his latest book, Walkable City, Speck writes that creating a walkable city is more than constructing sidewalks. Instead, the urban environment must be designed so walking is useful, safe, comfortable and interesting. He says, "...we must understand that the walkable city is not just a nice, idealistic notion. Rather, it is a simple, practical -minded solution to a host of complex problems that we face as a society, problems that daily undermine our nation's economic competitiveness, public welfare, and environmental sustainability." Speck previously served as Director of Design at the National Endowment for the Arts from 2003 to 2007 where he presided over the Mayor's Institute on City Design and created the Governor's Institute on Community Design. Both are leadership initiatives that help local governments deal with critical urban design challenges. Since 2007, he has led Speck & Associates, a boutique planning firm that specializes in American downtowns. Speck will be available after the event to sign his book. Prairie Lights will sell copies at the event and will also have them in stock at their book shop located at 15 S. Dubuque St., Iowa City. The City of Iowa City and University of Iowa School of Urban Planning are partnering to bring Speck to the Iowa City community. To learn more about Speck, visit ieffspeck.com ,r CITY O1 I0%%'A C l l Y UN(SCo cm or tM"Tux( JEFF SPECK Author & Walkability Advocate to Speak in Iowa City Monday, Oct. 24, 2016 6:30 p.m. Iowa City Public Library 123 S. Linn Street, Iowa City This event is free & Mr. Speck will be available afterwards to sign his book. Prairie + lights will sell copies at the event and also have them in stock open to the public at their shop lotated at 15 S. Dubuque St., Iowa City. 1 ! 1 -" Cie to ON � ,\ Questions? Contact Us CITY OF TOWN CITY 1)%15(0(111 of I II IRAIIIRI G Author of Walkable City: How Downtown Can Save America, $60W of One Step at a Time, Jeff Speck is a city planner and urban Urban designer who has dedicated his career to determining what Regional Manning makes cities thrive. He will share simple solutions to make cities more economically competitive and environmentally sustainable. This event is free & Mr. Speck will be available afterwards to sign his book. Prairie + lights will sell copies at the event and also have them in stock open to the public at their shop lotated at 15 S. Dubuque St., Iowa City. 1 ! 1 -" Cie to ON � ,\ Questions? Contact Us CITY OF TOWN CITY 1)%15(0(111 of I II IRAIIIRI G IP4 ❑nnnino New Ur Come hungry! Good food and like-minded people are only a few of the offerings at Successful Living Thursday, November 3rd, vilwil yuu join us for a delicious. hearty dinner progressing through 2406 Towncrest Drive. Smiles and laughter are served up, and second helpings encouraged. This year. our Living for Success Day Hab is hosting a silent auction. using the funds raised on donated items for a new dishwasher. This is our annual chanr:e to throw our doors .vide open to welcome you. Come find out what's new! 1luestions7 call 319-358-6811(1 Original email added to 10/18 agenda Item 4f(6) IP5 Marian Karr From: Geoff Fruin Sent: Wednesday, October 19, 2016 7:35 AM To: 'Audrey Keith'; Council; PoliceChiefSearchAutoReply Subject: RE: ICPD commitment to racial equity Audrey, Thank you for your email and interest in the Police Chief search and various outreach activities of the department. 1 have provided brief responses to your questions and indicated where you can go for additional information. If you still have remaining questions you can feel free to contact me. 1.) The chief will have discretion to review, edit and create new department policy. This discretion may be limited by legal constraints, collective bargaining agreements and other matters depending on the topic. The Chief reports to the City Manager and works through any significant polity change with our office. 2.) More information on our outreach efforts can be found through our quarterly DIF reports available on our Human Rights website (httos://www.icgov.ore/city-government/departments-and-divisions/human- rights/racial-ea uity-and-diversity-initiative) 3.) Coffee with a Cop is one of many outreach efforts of the ICPD. More of the outreach efforts are noted in the above link. If you have ideas for additional outreach activities to consider we are always looking for new ways to effectively engage the community. Thank you again, Geoff Fruin City Manager I City of Iowa City P: 319.356.5013 Web I Facebook I Twitter From: Audrey Keith [mailto:audreykeithiowa@gmail.com] Sent: Monday, October 17, 2016 11:20 PM To: Geoff Fruin; Council; PoliceChiefSearchAutoReply Subject: ICPD commitment to racial equity Hello, My name is Audrey Keith and I am critical of the ongoing unjust and racist treatment of black people and other people of color here in Iowa City. I am aware of the council's strategic plan and diversity implementation -- sounds like there's a lot of good stuff going on or in the works, and I appreciate that, but I have a few specific thoughts and questions: 1) In regards to the new police chief hire, will the chief have the authority and be willing to enforce any new policies created regarding the use of de-escalation tactics, eradicating racial profiling, de -prioritizing the enforcement of non-violent offenses, and limiting use of force? 2)I saw that the ICPD participated in a panel about Campaign Zero, what community policing tactics do they intend to employ? I saw the hiring of a Community Outreach Assistant, which is great, and what else will the ICPD do to change how all officers go about their work? 3)I like the idea of the Coffee with a Cop events for their focus on one-on-one informal interaction, how has participation been for these so far? -- I'm afraid there would be a lot of barriers for people to be able and willing to attend, especially if they already distrust the police. Is the officer in uniform, do they have their weapons on them? That might not feel safe for many people. --It's putting the responsibility on the public to bring tough conversation topics and represent their communities, when really the responsibility should be on officers and the department in general to seek out interactions with the public by attending community events (preferable in street clothes) or volunteering in various neighborhoods. Thanks for you time and consideration, Audrey Keith B.S.W. Certificate in Critical Cultural Competency University of Iowa r CITY OF IOWA CITY 1P6 MEMORANDUM Date: October 19, 2016 To: Mayor and City Council J1 From: Marian K. Karr, City Clerk Ag Re: KXIC Radio Show At your October 18 work session, and follow-ups conversations, Council Members agreed to the following schedule for the Wednesdav 8AM radio show. Wednesdav October 19 — Cole October 26 — Mims November 2 — Dickens November 9 — Mims November 16 —Taylor November 23 — Thomas November 30 — Throgmorton December 7 — Mims In addition we are adding a 7:15 — 7:45 AM the first and third Friday of each month: Friday October 21 — Throgmorton November 4 — Botchway November 18 — Botchway December 2 — Cole December 16 — Dickens ** Please remember that KXIC is very flexible with taping the Wednesday sessions ahead of the show. It is the intent of the Friday interviews to be live. U: radioshowappts.doc CITY OF IOWA CITY 10-20-16 1P7 MEMORANDUM Date: October 19, 2016 To: Mayor and City Council From: Marian K. Karr, City Clerk Re: Draft Budget Schedule - 2017 Attached is a draft schedule for the upcoming FY18 budget sessions. Please review and let me know if the January 7 or 10 dates will not work for you. These special budget work sessions are in addition to your regularly scheduled meetings on January 3 and 17. Once approved I will incorporate the dates into the tentative schedule for distribution. Ubudget memo 2017.doe Saturday. January 7. 2017 Budaet Work Session 5:00* Budget Overview and Highlights -City Manager's Office & Finance 9:30 BREAK General Government Program Budgets: City Attorney City Clerk City Manager Finance Police Department Fire Department Library Parks & Recreation Senior Center _ 12:00 Noon LUNCH 1:00 Neighborhood and (MPO) (Parking, Transit, Landfill and Refuse) *Times not estimates Tuesda 11 1:00* 1:30 Capi 3:30 BREAK work session Improvement Projects [CIP] (2 hours) Discussion wrap-up 7:00 Scheduled ending time *Times noted are estimates U:BUDGET SCHEDULE17.doc r1 U-20-16 1 IPs Maw =l �— ■ CITY OF IOWA CITY 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1826 (319)356-5000 (319) 356-5009 FAX www.1cgov.org October 18, 2016 TO: The Honorable Mayor and the City Council RE: Civil Service Entrance Examination — Maintenance Worker III — Streets 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 I — Streets. Joshua Stratton IOWA CITY CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION Lyr W. Dickerson, Chair Volunteers needed next two weekends for Iowa Riverbank environmental clean-ups Page 1 of 2 IP9 Receive Updates jEnter Email Address I Go T Volunteers needed next two weekends for Iowa Riverbank environmental clean-ups City of Iowa City sent this bulletin at 10/19/2016 02:46 PM CDT [a SHRRE Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page. atyo 10WACITY FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Date: Oct. 19, 2016 Contact: Carol Sweeting Phone: 319-541-2385 https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/IAIOWA/butletins/I6c77a6 10/19/2016 Volunteers needed next two weekends for Iowa Riverbank environmental clean-ups Page 2 of 2 Volunteers needed next two weekends for Iowa Riverbank environmental clean-ups At least 15 volunteers are needed from noon to 3 p.m. this Sunday, Oct. 23, 2016, for an environmental clean-up along the Iowa River north of McCollister Bridge in Iowa City. Volunteers will remove trash, invasive species, and woody debris to help reduce flooding and erosion and to improve water quality. If enough volunteers are not signed up by Friday evening, the event will have to be cancelled. Another clean-up is scheduled the following Sunday, on Oct. 30. A range of jobs will be available to accommodate all age groups and skill levels, and no experience is necessary, reports Carol Sweeting, Volunteer Coordinator for the City of Iowa City's Stormwater Division. Individuals, families, service groups, students and others are urged to sign up for one or both events. University of Iowa or Kirkwood Community College Environmental Science students can earn three hours of volunteer credit, and the event will also generate credit for junior high and high school students. Participants under 18 years of age must have a parent sign a consent form on the day of the clean-up. Register for the Oct. 23 and/or Oct. 30 clean-ups at facebook.comlowa.citv.stormwater.volunteers. Check the Facebook page the morning of the event to make sure it has not been cancelled due to a shortage of volunteers or inclement weather. Volunteers should wear long pants, socks, and closed -toe shoes or boots. Gloves and tools will be provided. Participants will meet at the parking lot in Napoleon Park, 3800 Napoleon Lane, at noon for assignments. For more information, contact Carol Sweeting at carol-sweetino(o Iowa-citv.org or 319-541-2385. 1 � Questions? Contact Us CITY of town CITY uaeuo un OF unurua STAY CONNECTED: � a in SUBSCRIBER SERVICES: Manage Preferences I Unsubscribe I Helo P"woo by T https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/IAIOWA/builetins/I6c77a6 10/19/2016 September 15, 2016 Page 1 MINUTES DRAFT IOWA CITY AIRPORT COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 15, 2016 — 6:00 P.M. AIRPORT TERMINAL BUILDING Members Present: Minnetta Gardinier, Robert Libby, A. Jacob Odgaard, Chris Ogren Members Absent: Julie Bockenstedt Staff Present: Michael Tharp, Eric Goers Others Present: Matt Wolford, Bruce Hostager, Carl Byers, Todd Allen RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council actionl: None. DETERMINE QUORUM: Chairperson Odgaard called the meeting to order at 6:05 P.M. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: a Minutes of the August 18, 2016, meeting were reviewed first. Ogren noted that she was not at this meeting, but that in reading the minutes she questioned the spelling of former Mayor Regenia Bailey's name. Tharp noted that he would look into this. After some discussion, it was noted that this is the correct spelling. Libby moved to accept the minutes of the August 18, 2016, meeting as presented. Gardinier seconded the motion. The motion carried 3-0, Ogren abstaining and Bockenstedt absent. PUBLIC DISCUSSION: None. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION/ACTION: a. Airport Master Plan — Tharp stated that Carl Byers planned to be present for this discussion but that he had another meeting to attend first. He suggested they hold this topic for later in the meeting, in hopes of Byers attendance. Tharp stated that the plan is still with the FAA being reviewed at this time and that unfortunately it is moving slower than expected. Members agreed to hold off on this topic for now, until Byers' arrival. Gardinier asked for clarification on circling, and Tharp noted that there is still no circling allowed. b. FAA/IDOT Projects: AECOM / David Hughes - September 15, 2016 Page 2 I. FY16 Apron Expansion — Tharp stated that Todd Allen is present from AECOM. He noted that there is not much to update here. The close out on the apron project is not ready yet, but should be by the next meeting. ii. FYI Obstruction Mitigation — Tharp noted that there is no change on this issue, as they are still awaiting the final master plan approvals. He then introduced Allen to the Commission. C. Airport Operations - i. Strategic Plan — Implementation — Tharp stated that he is a bit behind on this and is still completing the RFP process. He noted that he is having difficulty finding another airport in Iowa that is similar in doing a strategic plan, and that those outside of the state are more in line with the Cedar Rapids Airport. Gardinier noted that the Marion Airport should have a strategic plan that would be similar in nature. Tharp will check into this. ii. Budget — Tharp stated that he does not have much to add here. He noted that the blinds for downstairs have been ordered and he is awaiting their arrival. He added that a hangar door was recently repaired and that it took several attempts to fix this. iii. Management — 1. FAA Unmanned Aircraft — Part 107 —Tharp stated that he put this on the agenda as he wanted to give Members some insight into what the FAA has done with Part 107. He further explained what the process is to obtain a drone certificate. Basically it takes the 'approval' of such a certificate away from the airports. He added that in this meeting's packet there are several pages further explaining what the drone program entails. The DOT has put together a map showing the space that drones can be operated in without having to notify anyone. Members shared their concerns about drones being flown close to the Airport. Gardinier suggested the Airport educate the public on what good drone etiquette is and suggested using the Public Library to hold such an event. It was suggested that this information also be posted in the Airport terminal for people to see. Odgaard asked Tharp if he has had many calls about the drone rules and Tharp responded that he has had several calls, especially in the last few weeks. Gardinier also suggested having the Aero Hawks post this at their field. d. FBO / Flight Training Reports - i. Jet Air — Matt Wolford with Jet Air addressed the Members regarding the monthly maintenance reports. He noted that in August they finished the ceiling tile replacement downstairs. He also spoke to some of the other maintenance items that crews addressed over the past month. Ogren asked if they have been able to catch any groundhogs yet and Wolford noted that traps have been set but that he doesn't believe any have been caught yet. Members spoke briefly to the game day traffic at the Airport and fuel sales. Wolford then addressed the upcoming hangar construction, giving Members a brief rundown of timeframes and responding to their questions. e. Commission Members' Reports — Libby noted that he missed a recent disaster drill planning meeting but that Tharp was in attendance. Tharp spoke to the September 15, 2016 Page 3 meeting, stating that things are moving forward and that they are still looking at a May 20"' date for this drill. He added that they are still getting the scenario planned but that things are moving ahead. Tharp then noted that Carl Byers had arrived at the meeting, and he asked if Byers had any updates on the master plan. Byers stated that the plan is still being reviewed, and that once they receive it from the FAA they can move to the next phase. Gardinier noted that she saw the "Sully" movie recently and she highly recommended it to Members. She noted that she is planning to fly to Lexington, if the weather cooperates, where she will give a talk about the Air Race Classic. f. Staff report — Tharp spoke briefly to the Sertoma event. He stated that everything went well from what he has heard. He also noted an upcoming reception that will be held for Henry Fisk, the architect who did the Airport terminal building. Tharp also noted that the Airport grounds will be used for parking for the upcoming Cyclo -cross event being held at the Fairgrounds. Gardinier asked if anyone knows how they would go about having a banner in the downtown area for the Airport's upcoming anniversary. Goers stated that they should check with the City Manager's office on this. Odgaard asked if Members would like to create a subcommittee to deal with this anniversary. SET NEXT REGULAR MEETING FOR: The next regular meeting of the Airport Commission will be held on Thursday, October 20. 2016, at 6:00 P.M. in the Airport Terminal Building. ADJOURN: Ogren moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:05 P.M. Gardinier seconded the motion. The motion carried 4-0, Bockenstedt absent. CHAIRPERSON DATE September 15, 2016 Page a Airport Commission ATTENDANCE RECORD 2016 Key: X = Present X/E = Present for Part of Meeting 108_1ljI O/E = Absent/Excused TERM o 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -+ N N W A. N M V w 69 w NAME EXP. N -` N N oo -' cc m ° m N i T ii 0 C) (D 07 J W i 07 N G1 CY) Oi 01 01 Minnetta 03/01/ X X X X X X O/ X X X X Gardinier 19 E Jose 03/01/ X O/ X N N N N N N N N Assouline 16 E M M M M M M M M Chris Ogren 03101/ X X X X X O/ X X X O/ X 16 E E A.Jacob 03101/ X X X X X O/ X X X X X Odgaard 18 E Julie 03/01/ X X X X O/ X X X O X O/ Bockenstedt 17 E / E E Robert Libby 03/21/ N NM NM N X X X X O X X 20 M M / E Key: X = Present X/E = Present for Part of Meeting 108_1ljI O/E = Absent/Excused September 15, 2016 Page 5 NM = Not a Member at this time DRAFT IP11 COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW BOARD MINUTES — October 11, 2016 CALL TO ORDER: Vice Chair Joseph Treloar called the meeting to order at 5:34 P.M. MEMBERS PRESENT: Monique Green, Orville Townsend MEMBERS ABSENT: Donald King, Mazahir Salih STAFF PRESENT: Legal Counsel Ford and Staff Kellie Fruehling STAFF ABSENT: None OTHERS PRESENT: Interim Police Chief Bill Campbell of the ICPD RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL None REPORT FROM NOMINATING COMMITTEE King and Townsend did not have a chance to meet so no report was given. MOTION TO FIX METHOD OF VOTING Motion by Treloar, seconded by Green to fix the method of voting to be by voice vote. Motion carried, 3/0, King and Salih absent. NOMINATIONS FOR OFFICE OF CHAIRPERSON Motion by Townsend and seconded by Green to nominate Treloar for Chair. Motion carried, 3/0, King and Salih absent. MOTION TO CLOSE NOMINATIONS Motion by Townsend, seconded by Green to close nominations. Motion carried, 3/0, King and Salih absent. BALLOT OR VOTE Motion by Townsend and seconded by Green to select Treloar for Chair. Motion carried, 3/0, King and Salih absent. Motion by Treloar and seconded by Green to nominate Treloar for Vice -Chair. Motion carried, 3/0, King and Salih absent. MOTION TO CLOSE NOMINATIONS Motion by Treloar, seconded by Green to close nominations. Motion carried, 3/0, King and Salih absent. BALLOT OR VOTE Motion by Treloar and seconded by Green to select Treloar for Vice -Chair. Motion carried, 3/0, King and Salih absent. October 11, 2016 Page 2 CONSENT CALENDAR Motion by Townsend and seconded by Green to adopt the consent calendar as presented or amended. • Minutes of the meeting on 09/13/16 Motion carried, 3/0, King and Salih absent TENTATIVE MEETING SCHEDULE and FUTURE AGENDAS (subject to change) • November 8, 2016, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm (moved to November 7th) • December 13, 2016, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm • January 10, 2017, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm • February 14, 2017, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm Motion by Treloar, seconded by Townsend to move the November 8th meeting to Monday, November 7th at 5:30 P.M. due to the 8th being election day. Motion carried, 3/0, King and Salih absent. OLD BUSINESS None. NEW BUSINESS None. PUBLIC DISCUSSION Interim Police Chief Bill Campbell introduced himself to the Board. BOARD INFORMATION None. STAFF INFORMATION None. EXECUTIVE SESSION Motion by Townsend, seconded by Green to adjourn into Executive Session based on Section 21.5(1)(a) of the Code of Iowa to review or discuss records which are required or authorized by state or federal law to be kept confidential or to be kept confidential as a condition for that government body's possession or continued receipt of federal funds, and 22.7(11) personal information in confidential personnel records of public bodies including but not limited to cities, boards of supervisors and school districts, and 22-7(5) police officer investigative reports, except where disclosure is authorized elsewhere in the Code; and 22.7(18) Communications not required by law, rule or procedure that are made to a government body or to any of its employees by identified persons outside of government, to the extent that the government body receiving those communications from such persons outside of government could reasonably believe that those persons would be discouraged from making them to that government body if they were available for general public examination. Motion carried, 3/0, King and Salih absent. Open session adjourned at 5:46 P.M. CPRB October 11, 2016 Page 3 REGULAR SESSION Returned to open session at 6:08 P.M. Motion by Green, seconded by Townsend to set the level of review for CPRB Complaint #16-03 and to 8-8-7 (13)(1)(a), On the record with no additional investigation. Motion carried, 3/0, King and Salih absent. Motion by Green, seconded by Townsend to set the level of review for CPRB Complaint #16-04 and to 8-8-7 (13)(1)(a), On the record with no additional investigation. Motion carried, 3/0, King and Salih absent. ADJOURNMENT Motion for adjournment by Townsend, seconded by Green. Meeting adjourned at 6:10 P.M. COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW BOARD ATTENDANCE RECORD YEAR 2015-2016 KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused NM = No meeting --- = Not a Member TERM 9/8 10/12 12/16 1/20 1/25Vv� 2/17 �L4/12 4/26 5/18 5/23 6/7 8/17 9/13 NAME EXP. 10j Melissa 9/1/16 X X X X X X NM X X X X Jensen Joseph 9/1/17 X X X X X X NM X O/E X X X X Treloar Royceann 9/1/16 O X O X X X NM X X X O Porter — Mazahir 9/1/17 X O O/E —0—X O NM X X O/E O/E X X Salih Q Donald Wl/19 --- X X X X O NM X X X X O/E X O/ King Monique 7/1/20 -- Green X X X Orville 7/l/20 ---X Townsend --- --- --- --- X X KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused NM = No meeting --- = Not a Member IP12 MINUTES PRELIMINARY HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 15, 2016 — 6:30 PM DALE HELLING CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL MEMBERS PRESENT: Peter Byler, Syndy Conger, Christine Harms, Bob Lamkins, Harry Olmstead, Dorothy Persson, Emily Seiple, Paula Vaughan MEMBERS ABSENT: John McKinstry STAFF PRESENT: Kris Ackerson, Steve Rackis OTHERS PRESENT: Shawn McRoberts RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL: By a vote of 8-0 the Commission recommends approval all proposed amendments to the Housing Choice Voucher Administrative Plan. CALL TO ORDER: Byler called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM. NOMINATE AND ELECT OFFICERS (CHAIRIVICE CHAIR): Persson nominated Byler to continue as the Chair. Seiple seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the motion passed 8-0. Byler next called for nominations for Vice Chair. The previous Vice Chair was Jim Jacobson who left the Commission earlier in the year and was not replaced. Persson noted that she replaced Jacobson as the Vice Chair. Olmstead nominated Persson as Vice Chair. Conger seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the motion passed 8-0. APPROVAL OF AUGUST 18. 2016 MINUTES: Persson noted a misspelling of her name in the minutes. Seiple anticipated recommendation #6 was to read "actively pursue." Seiple also noted on recommendation #14 and #15 should include tenant or landlord education. Byler noted that there was mention of education in recommendation #12 which was one of the Commissions priorities "Create an education program to promote the benefits of subsidized housing projects to landlords/developers." Persson questioned recommendation #15 and had thought something was going to be added to the minutes that would show what the simpler language was going to be. Ackerson noted that the memo that went to the City Council had specified that but it will be up to the City Manager to craft the final document. Vaughn said it is noted in the minutes that simpler language should be used. Ackerson noted it will be a policy that will need to be crafted. Harms asked if that policy would come to the Commission. Ackerson replied that no, the recommendations that the Commission sent to the Council will be considered at their next meeting on September 20. Persson asked if the Commission would see the final document. Ackerson noted it would be in the City Packet and could be reviewed there. Housing and Community Development Commission September 15, 2016 Page 2 of 8 Olmstead moved to approve the minutes of August 18, 2016 with the edits. Harms seconded the motion. A vote was taken and motion passed 8-0. PUBLIC COMMENT FOR TOPICS NOT ON THE AGENDA: Shawn McRoberts (St. Mark's United Methodist Church) stated he was present because he was very interested in what this Commission was doing and was present to learn more. Byler opened the public hearing Ackerson passed out one of the reports that did not make it into the PDF packet. The report summarizes how the money was spent last year and how much was rolled over for the next year. The report also has a list of the various projects broken down by the type. Ackerson also noted that the format that is online is a new template the HUD has created online so there are lot of quirks with the layout. Byler asked if there were anything particular that Ackerson would recommend the Commission spend time reviewing. Ackerson replied that most of the document is just summary of what the Government requires, the tables are the most beneficial to review are on pages 35, 36 and 37. Those tables are a list of the CBDG and HOME projects that the City completed so it is a good summary to see what actually got done. Conger said at previous meetings the Commission had asked for distinction of what monies were used for owner -occupied versus rentals. Ackerson said that information is in the report. Ackerson said he would find those tables and send them to the Commission. Syler closed the public hearing. Conger moved to approve the FY16 Consolidated Annual Performance& Evaluation Report (CAPER) with minor typo edits. Olmstead seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the motion carried 8-0. TENTATIVE SCHEDULE OF PROJECT MONITORING VISITS IN FY17:. Byler noted that the schedule is in the Commission's packets. Ackerson noted that he outlined the dates that he will ask the grant recipients to present. In the past the Commissioners would sign up to go out and see the projects themselves, but that was hard to schedule so the partners come to a meeting to present. Olmstead questioned if the Commission could not do both. Ackerson said that was acceptable, noting that the Commissioners are all welcome to contact the recipients and go visit the sites. Byler suggested that the entities come to the meetings and present and then if there are particular projects the Commission would like to visit that can be set up after the presentation. Seiple agreed that would work well. Byler asked if Ackerson could add to his memo on each line the amount awarded to each entity and a description of the project. Housing and Community Development Commission September 15, 2016 Page 3 of 8 UPDATES AND AMENDMENTS TO THE IOWA CITY HOUSING AUTHORITY'S HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHER PROGRAM (HCVP) ADMINISTRATIVE PLAN: Rackis from the Iowa City Housing Authority stated that this agenda item had previously been on an earlier meeting's agenda but he pulled it thinking they would be adding some items to the discussion, but never did. Rackis also noted he thought the meeting was next Thursday so that is the date he gave to the Johnson County Local Homeless Coordinating Board so their absence here tonight is not a lack of enthusiasm for their own project, it was due to Rackis relaying misinformation. Rackis stated that everyone is excited about the FUSE (Frequent Users System Engagement) Housing First initiative and noted he has been on the steering committee for about two years and they came up with this Special Admission as a way to help with the cash flow of the project. The individuals that this project is discussing may ultimately qualify for social security or social security disability but they have not been in one place long enough to apply and go through the application process. Rackis noted that is the problem with chronic homeless, some of these individuals have come to the top of the waiting list five times but they never follow through with the paperwork. Rackis also said that instead of tying the voucher to the unit they encouraged the FUSE project to go with Special Admission because they are optimistic that if they house someone first and provide the services then maybe someone can move on transitional housing or supportive community living or even independent living they would then have a voucher to take with them to ensure that housing is affordable. The FUSE project would then make another referral for that person that moved out. Rackis noted that the Housing Authority only as 1215 vouchers and cannot go over, but there is always turnover and attrition which averages out to be about 200 per year to go to people on the waiting list. Rackis explained that even if they are at 100% they are still going to issue a voucher because at the end of the calendar year it should even out. It is in fact a gamble but it hasn't been a risk. Byler declared he has no issues with the changes to the language but does question how many homeless people there are in Iowa City. The memo just states FUSE assists chronically homeless individuals who are the most frequent users of high cost services at public expense. These individuals: a. Continuously cycle through a variety of social and public services. b. Experience chronic homelessness and are a small fraction of the overall homeless population (4- 5%). c. Have complex behavioral and social challenges that make it difficult for them to succeed in traditional services. Byler notes that implies that there are 300 homeless people in Iowa City if they are building thirteen FUSE units. Rackis informed that there would be 24 units. Byler concedes then that implies that there are 700 or so homeless in Iowa City. Lamkins stated he read the 4-5% as 4-5% of the homeless population, not the City's population. Byler agreed but if 4-5% of the homeless would fill 24 units, that would mean the homeless population is 500-600 which seems astonishing. Persson stated that the City tries to count the number of homeless each year and if Crissy Canganelli (from the Shelter House) was here she would likely have that data as they help between 700 and 900 people at the shelter every year. Rackis stated he took the language from the FUSE brochure. The goal is to have 24 units and the Coordinating Board had determined that maybe 10 will meet 100% of the FUSE criteria. Based upon the zoning change that City Council passed the architect was able to expand from an 8-12 unit building to a 24 unit building. Rackis contends that what Crissy Canganelli would confirm is that there are 8-10 people that will hit all of the FUSE criteria (such as the monetary criteria) and the other people that will be referred to them may not hit the monetary criteria but they will hit the other criteria in terms of that they had multiple contact with law enforcement, multiple contact with University Hospitals and Clinics, multiple contact with mental health, etc. Olmstead mentioned a program being put together by the County for mental health where they are going to do substance intervention and asked if the City has been involved with that at all. Rackis is not aware Housing and Community Development Commission September 15, 2016 Page 4 of 8 of that initiative. Olmstead also noted that this morning there was a report on poverty in the United States from the Census Bureau which concluded what states and cities were high and low in poverty, Iowa City was not on either end of that list but right in the middle. Rackis stated that he can give Ackerson copies of the brochure that the FUSE project created to help clarify what some of the numbers mean. Rackis noted that when the School District counts, even families that are doubled up, they don't get a count of 700. Persson said she would like to know that number, noting that she has volunteered at the Shelter House and in the winter/wet shelter so she feels that it could be a high number. Rackis confirmed that the winter overflow shelter did have numbers up to 120 people and Shelter House at 70 was full so that is already 200. Seiple asked if this definition supersedes the locational (residency) preference. Rackis confirmed that this is a Special Admissions, and likely the 24 individuals that will be referred to them are "living" in Iowa City — they don't have a legal domicile but they are living here. Seiple also asked if differentiating for the people that will get vouchers that they can carry after this or having project based vouchers affects the funding then. Rackis replied that there will not be and that their funding is based on two things, one is voucher utilization because they cannot go over the 1,215 so part of it is unit based but part is budget based. If they spent $16.9 million in calendar year 2016 then they can anticipate what HUD will give them for calendar year 2017. Rackis is very excited about this FUSE project, his understanding is they plan to purchase the site by the end of September and then it's just a matter of putting all the funding in place and building. Persson asked how Shelter House's Lodge Program fit into this program. Rackis replied that they are supporting individuals in the lodges with vouchers. Byler questioned that when the FUSE facility opens 24 people will come to the top of the list so if someone is on the waiting list it will likely be for six weeks or so until placement. Rackis said if they get 24 referrals on impact that will make a very minimal impact on someone on the waiting list. When working with the waiting lists they usually take 100 people off at a time, the usual rule of thumb is if 100 are offered, about 50 will respond. Olmstead asked if there was any minimal time of residency required. Rackis responded that HUD allows housing authorities as a local preference to have residency preferences but there cannot be a residency requirement. Olmstead asked if there would be any special consideration for Veterans. Rackis said there wouldn't be however there will be referrals and they can add a Veterans preference, but the need hasn't yet been identified. Persson noted that a lot of Veterans get help at Shelter House because they do have a Veterans program. Olmstead moves to recommend approval of all proposed amendments to the Housing Choice Voucher Administrative Plan. Lamkins seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the motion passed 8-0. UPDATE ON ENERGY EFFICIENCY GRANT PROGRAM WITH AMERICORPS AND MIDAMERICAN: Ackerson wanted to notify the Commission that the City is working on this new project partnering with AmeriCorps. This is a project operated out of UNI that have set up teams in communities that spend a year visiting cities conducting energy audits of all the publically-city owned housing units. Ackerson noted this will be great for the tenants because the improvements that are made can help reduce utility bills. This group will conduct what is known as "blower door" test where they try to find leaks in windows, doors and foundations and fixing those. They will be replacing lighting, checking the furnace and air conditioning Housing and Community Development Commission September 15, 2016 Page 5 of 8 units, and then make a list of things that the City can do after fact (like adding insulation into the walls or attics or replacing doors, etc.). Vaughn questioned if any inefficient appliances will be part of the review or faulty plumbing. Ackerson replied that he is not sure about the plumbing but he will find out, as also with the appliances. UPDATE FROM CITY ATTORNEY REGARDING CRIME FREE ADDENDUM: Byler noted the response (in the agenda packet) from Susan Dulek, Assistant City Attorney, was very thorough and thanked the City Attorney for that work. Persson asserted her concern because this was presented to them but were not give motivation as to what presented to them. Seiple stated she was the one that requested this information. Persson understood the conversation but feels that if there are problems with a landlord using this addendum too much they should have a right to respond and there should be fairness. Byler noted that this memo was meant to clarify fairness and non-discrimination for all tenants, but especially for those projects receiving city assisted funds. Byler noted that perhaps if this Commission wants to pursue this topic perhaps as a future meeting agenda item for perhaps an email address compliant system for people who feel they have been wrongly treated with regards to a crime -free addendum in a lease. It could be treated similarly has the Human Rights Commission complaints where Staff would follow up. DISCUSS HOW HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION WANTS TO RECEIVE CORRESPONDENCE: Byler began by reiterating the current policy that the Commission has is if anyone wants information included into the Commission's packets, which comes out a week before the meeting, has to forward that information to Ackerson. Byler stated that items can always be passed out at the meetings, but the policy is to not pass out any new information at a meeting and act on it at that meeting. It needs to be placed on a future agenda. If information becomes available between the week of the packet distribution and the meeting date, it still needs to be sent to Ackerson to be distributed. Ackerson noted that because this Commission allocates funding it is important for the Commission to be as transparent as possible and the City will not distribute materials to the Commission without also making them available to the public. Ackerson said he has been considering adding a correspondence item to each agenda because there are people who find articles that are housing related either locally or nationally. That way if they are on the agenda there is an opportunity to discuss them if people want to, but they are not action items. Olmstead asks that Staff not censor anything that the Commission gives to be added to the packet. UPDATE ON PUBLIC INPUT BEING SOUGHT REGARDING CITY STEPS: Ackerson explained that every year the Commission tries to do outreach to the community and get additional input and identify if there are any changes that need to be made to CITY STEPS (the five-year plan) and identity if there are any new priorities. Tracy Hightshoe is meeting with folks in Mobile Hospital today and then later this month on the 281b Ackerson will visit IC Compassion, which works with refugees, so if anyone is interested in going with Ackerson let him know. Staff will bring the feedback from these visits to the Commissions next meeting. At the October meeting the Commission will also have the opportunity to propose any amendments to the Plan they might have. Housing and Community Development Commission September 15, 2016 Page 6 of 8 Seiple noted that she attended the Iowa Finance Authority Conference in Des Moines last Wednesday and saw the presentation Crissy Canganelli on the Lodge Project, the FUSE project, and the new zoning that is facilitating that project. Olmstead declared he is in need of volunteers for Election Day. There is a group that will provide transportation to persons with disabilities to the precincts but they would like persons at the precincts to greet them. Byler noted that in the last round of applications to this Commission a person stated that they feel they would be a good person to be added to this Commission and that prompted Byler to send an email to the Mayor noting his opinion is in disagreement. That email was released through an open records request, so Byler just wanted to make everyone aware. ADJOURNMENT: Olmstead moved to adjourn. Seiple seconded the motion. A vote was taken and motion carried 8-0. Housing and Community Development Commission Attendance Record Name Terms Exp. 10/22 11/19 1/21 2/18 3/10 4/21 5/19 6/16 8/18 9/15 Byler, Peter 7/1/17 X X X X X X X X X X Conger, Syndy 7/1/18 O/E X X X O/E X O/E O/E X X Harms, Christine 7/1/19 — — — — -- — X X X X Lamkins, Bob 7/1/19 X X X X X O/E X O/E O/E X McKinstry, John 7/1/17 — — — -- -- X X O/E O/E Olmstead, Harry 7/1/18 — — X X X X X X X X Persson, Dottie 7/1/17 X X X O/E X O/E X X X X Seiple, Emily 7/1/18 X X X X X X X X X X Vaughan, Paula 7/1/19 --- --- — -- --- --- — X X Kev: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused — = Vacant MINUTES PRELIMINARY PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION OCTOBER 6, 2016 — 7:00 PM — FORMAL MEETING EMMA HARVAT HALL — CITY HALL MEMBERS PRESENT: Carolyn Dyer, Mike Hensch, Ann Freerks, Phoebe Martin, Max Parsons, Mark Signs, Jodie Theobald MEMBERS ABSENT: STAFF PRESENT: Sara Hektoen, Bob Miklo, Jann Ream, Karen Howard OTHERS PRESENT: Nancy Bird, Steve Long RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL: By a vote of 7-0 the Commission recommends approval of City Code Section 14-5B, Sign Regulations: Section 14- 3C, Design Review; and Section 14-9C, Sign Definitions to implement amendments related to the Iowa City Downtown District Storefront Design and Signage guidelines, and the Reed v. Town of Gilbert (2015) Supreme Court decision. By a vote of 7-0 the Commission recommends approval of REZ16-00002, a request to rezone approximately 4.57 acres of property located at 1225 and 1301 S. Gilbert Street from Intensive Commercial (CI -1) and (P-1) to Riverfront Crossing -South Gilbert (RFC -SG) and to amend the conditional zoning agreement for approximately 3.97 acres of property located at 1201 S. Gilbert Street, be approved subject to a revised conditional zoning agreement for the property at 1201 S. Gilbert Street and a new conditional zoning agreement for the properties at 1225 S. Gilbert Street and 1301 S. Gilbert Street or alternatively, a conditional zoning agreement that addresses all three properties, as outlined in the "traffic and pedestrian circulation" section of the Staff Report dated October 6, 2016. romm"eximaNg Freerks called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: There were none CODE AMENDMENT ITEM: Consider approval of amendments to City Code Section 14-513, Sign Regulations: Section 14- 3C, Design Review; and Section 14-9C, Sign Definitions to implement amendments related to the Iowa City Downtown District Storefront Design and Signage guidelines, and the Reed v. Town of Gilbert (2015) Supreme Court decision. Miklo introduced Jann Ream to the Commissioners, Ream issues all the sign permits for Iowa City so she is the foremost expert in the sign code and was instrumental in putting these amendments together. Planning and Zoning Commission October 6, 2016— Formal Meeting Page 2 of 15 Ream stated two things came together to bring these amendments in front of the Commission. One, about a year and a half ago the City worked with the Downtown District to hire an outside design consultant to help come up with retail design and signage guidelines for the Downtown District. Two, at the same time there was this Supreme Court decision relating to signage stated that cites could not use content based signage to regulate. Ream said that with those two things coming together it was a rather comprehensive review and rewriting of quite a bit of the City's Sign Code and this is likely the largest Sign Code package amendment the City has brought before the Commission in awhile. Ream noted there are quite a few changes, some of the Commissioners may not be aware of how the Sign Code was organized before but Ream will try to go through this step by step. Ream showed the Commissioners illustrations from the Iowa City Downtown District that were designed, reviewed and accepted as the final guidelines. The objective is to create an avenue downtown to promote creative new signage that is appropriate to the scale of the downtown buildings and a pedestrian oriented clientele. The goal was to eliminate those types of signage that are really more appropriate for buildings that are in auto -oriented areas. The downtown is very different and a unique situation that is pedestrian oriented. The consultants that were hired and other studies all emphasize the need for creative, pedestrian -scaled storefront signage in a downtown setting. Ream stated one of the first major changes is that plastic trim cap letters and cabinet signs where the entire face is internally illuminated would be prohibited. Ream showed examples of such signage to the Commission. Ream stated this will be a big change and will require quite a bit of education and discussion with downtown business owners to make them understand this is not the most appropriate signage for their business. Freerks asked about grandfathering current signage and Ream declared that all current signage will be grandfathered. Ream noted that in the previous ordinance the City has two types of canopy signs, canopy and canopy roof, and really the only difference was where the letters were mounted on the canopy. So part of this process was the result of a simpler signage ordinance. The City was able to eliminate a lot of sign types and combine a lot of sign types. The canopy roof sign would be eliminated as a separate sign type, and would be included in the general canopy sign designation. A canopy sign could be mounted to the top, face of a canopy. Rather than a square footage limitation on size (12sf), the size would be regulated by a maximum letter height (24 inches) for signs mounted to the top of the canopy and by the length of the canopy (no more than 90%). Ream noted that awning signs are a different type and the City ordinance would prohibit that much signage on an awning. Ream declared the next one is a big change, fascia signs are mounted to the face of a building. Fascia sign size would be reduced from 15% of the s i g n wall to 1.5x the length of the street facing facade. So, for example, a storefront with 25ft of street facing facade, would be allowed 37.5 sf of signage. This change would only apply to the CB zones. The other commercial zones would remain at 15% of the sign wall. This 1.5x the length is found in most Codes throughout the country, it is not a new concept and looking at the current signage in the Downtown District, most of the current signage fits this standard. Currently storefront projecting signs are allowed up to the first story. They are pedestrian - scaled, but underutilized downtown. In terms of trends in signage, Ream stated they are finding nationally projecting signs are coming back into vogue and are an appropriate storefront signage from a pedestrian visibility standpoint. In addition, some of the new larger buildings are Planning and Zoning Commission October 6, 2016 - Formal Meeting Page 3 of 15 proposing projecting signs and the City wanted to be able to allow them under certain circumstances. Therefore, projecting signs would be divided into three categories: Storefront, Upper level and Banner. The storefront projecting signs would be reduced in size from 12sf to 9sf but there would still be an allowance for a storefront projecting sign to be larger if the storefront is taller (has a ground to ceiling height of 18ft or more) and the sign is vertically proportioned. Storefront signs are allowed on the first floor facade up to the bottom of window sills on 2nd floor. Upper level projecting signs can be placed anywhere above the ground floor but below the top roofline or cornice of the building. They can be larger than storefront , projecting signs - size is proportional to the height of the building. These would be allowed under certain circumstances. Banner projecting signs are proposed to be allowed on large multi - tenant buildings such as Old Capitol Mall and size is proportional to the building. Ream shared examples of each of these with the Commission. Next Ream discussed window signs. The current ordinance just allows window signs that cannot be more than 25% of the storefront window, and can't obstruct views into the store. The Consultants in their guidelines prohibit window signs or only allow them in first floor windows, and Ream doesn't see that being an issue. Ream stated that currently the City prohibits painted signs, a business is not allowed to paint a sign directly onto a fagade. This is especially important for brick facades. However, the proposal is to make some allowance for these types of signs when incorporated into a wall mural on non -street -facing facades, such as an alley or along the side of a building. A wall mural can be very effective in brightening up these types of areas and make them less dreary. Additionally having the wall murals can discourage graffiti on those alley walls and side walls. Ream noted one change, that really doesn't have anything to do with the Downtown District, but the City has had request from some of the large manufacturing facilities, is that currently directional signs are only allowed up to three square feet and in Industrial zones, the size of directional signs would be increased to 15 square feet per side. This is proposed to address existing operational issues with semi -truck deliveries in industrial zones, and the limitation on directional signs causing difficulty with out-of-town drivers being able to find delivery locations. Freerks asked if those directional signs would be illuminated and Ream replied they would not. There could be ambient light or landscape lightening. Ream noted a few things, not necessarily related to sign categories that they are proposing. Larger integral signs, some are downtown already (such on the Jefferson Building), can be used to create a sense of identity for a whole building. Freerks asked for more detail on integral signs and if they are allowed in other areas, such as RS -5. Ream replied that they have always been allowed up to two square feet in a residential zone, so if one wanted to have a stone plaque indicating a historic home on their house they could. Integral means the sign is part of the building and generally letters carved into stone blocks. Reams continued and said that the City has never allowed animated signs in any way, but thought for the storefront projecting signs (that will be small, nine square feet) that if there was some sort of interesting sign and some rotation that could give it a little interest then the City will allow that. One other change, for window signs the City will allow electronic changeable copy which is specifically to allow changing signage for a movie theater listing different movies and Planning and Zoning Commission October 6, 2016 — Formal Meeting Page 4 of 15 times every week Parsons asked if the current bank signs (Midwest One and US Bank) would be conforming, they flash the time and temperature. Reams said that time and temperature signs have always been allowed and are regulated separately. Reams continued with the second part of the Sign Code amendments which are related to the Supreme Court decision and the relation to content based signs now being declared unconstitutional. The Court decision was based on a town in Arizona that regulated temporary signs and depending on what the sign said, determined if the sign could be placed in city right- of-way. There was a church that was advertising their church services that received fines while other organizations and businesses were not fined. As Iowa City went through the sign ordinance and all of the sign categories they realized they had a lot of content based sign types. For instance the City has real estate signs, development signs, construction signs, going out of business signs, etc. So the question is how to regulate such signs, as they are legitimate signs. What the City decided was to make them all temporary signs and rather than categorizing them by what they denoted or advertised, it was stated that in certain situations these types of signs, in certain sizes, would be allowed for certain lengths of time. Therefore it became time, place and manner rather than the content of the sign. For instance, instead of calling something a real estate sign, now the ordinance would allow for a parcel sign located on a lot or parcel when the lot is being advertised for sale, up to 4 square feet in size for residential zones and up to 32 square feet in other zones. Ream stated they went through each of those types of signs to find a way to accommodate them in the Sign Code without them being defined by their content. Hektoen noted that it was a very broad Supreme Court decision and there were dissenting opinions and concurring opinions, it was a very convoluted decision. Therefore there has been some subsequent litigation trying to figure out what it all means. Since the breadth of decision is still being defined, the City took a very conservative approach. Ream asserted it really did help streamline and clean up the Code. Hektoen stated the Court said in their decision that aesthetics can be compelling and significant but not always. Therefore the City is taking a conservative, cautious approach. Ream elaborated and said that was one of the reasons to eliminate all references requiring design review for signage as that often involves some subjectivity. Freerks noted that the City does have restrictions for lighting and noise, and Ream agreed stating that is then how the City will address design issues. Ream continued and acknowledged that political signs would basically be unregulated. The City's policy in the past was to not regulate political signs, the only stipulation was to say they could not be in City right-of-way. With regards to residential leasing signs, that type would be eliminated. This type of sign advertises the name and contact information of the company who owns or manages a property. A Residential Leasing Sign is a sign permanently affixed to the building and it does not advertise a particular unit for sale or lease. It is only allowed in multi- family residential zones and commercial zones and only on buildings of eight units or more. This sign type was created several years ago as a compromise with apartment owners and management companies in order to eliminate all of the signage on single family, duplexes and small unit buildings (original single family houses that had been converted into multi -family buildings). Previously, these types of signs were considered real estate signs and were allowed on any building. An issue raised in the past by the Northside Neighborhood is that these signs were permanent and detracted from the residential character of the neighborhood. So this new Planning and Zoning Commission October 6, 2016 — Formal Meeting Page 5 of 15 sign type was created and its use was restricted. This sign type is truly content based and no accommodation could be found that could allow it to remain as a sign type. "For rent" signs would still be permitted under the temporary sign rules and regulations, but would then only be used when an actual dwelling or dwelling units on the property were for rent. Freerks asked how the Residential Leasing Signs would be weeded-out over time. Ream said the current ones will be grandfathered in, but if the building changes hands it will be considered non-conforming. Freerks asked if the signs become rusty or damaged, can they be removed and not repaired. Reams replied that there is an ordinance in the Sign Code that states signs must be maintained and if they become obsolete they have to be removed, and the City will just approach that as situations arise. Reams stated that private signs in the public right-of-way will continue to not be permitted. Currently the City has a very tolerant policy for charitable organizations (run for the schools, March of Dimes walk, etc.) and the City will have to not allow that tolerant policy anymore. Therefore the City will work with the organizations to make them understand those signs cannot be in the right-of-ways. The impact on this new ordinance will be felt in the Downtown District. There are obviously some signs that are non-conforming, but they will be grandfathered in. Overtime as businesses change, the nonconforming signs will be replaced with conforming signs. The City hopes to partner with the Downtown District and business owners on education and obtaining the correct signage. Ream stated by eliminating all the content based signage the City will bring the Sign Code into compliance with Supreme Court law. Freerks asked about temporary signs, no more than 14 days and 2 occasions a year, noting that some signs people do put in their yards for a good portion of the year (school cross country, etc.), not in the public right-of-way, that can be an important communication tool. Ream noted that it will be a matter of enforcement and City Staff enforcement. Even under the current Code those type of signs are not to be permanent, so as long as the homeowners are not keeping them up permanently that is what the City is looking for. Freerks asked about flags in residential zones. In table 5-B-1 it was eliminated (public flags were stated as no permit was required) but some of the later tables it stated one was allowed. Ream said public flags were eliminated completely because citizens are always allowed to fly a public flag, and in the commercial zones they are stating they can have one additional flag (such as company flag). Signs asked about the trim cap and cabinet signs and if those were only being eliminated in the Downtown District or city-wide. Ream replied that they are only being eliminated in the Downtown District. Signs asked the same question in regards to pole-mounted banners. Ream stated they eliminated all those because a sign is only a sign if it is readable and legible from a city right-of-way. Therefore things like menu boards for restaurants, pole-mounted banner signs in private parking lots of shopping centers, were eliminated from the sign code because you can only see them once you are in the parking lot or drive-thru lane, so are not considered signs and are therefore not regulated. In the entire time Ream has been doing sign enforcement she has never issued a permit for those types of signs. Hektoen stated they are not by definition considered signs. Ream stated the City's compelling interest is what can be seen from public ways, so they aren't saying businesses can't have banners on poles, the City just isn't regulating it. Planning and Zoning Commission October 6, 2016 — Formal Meeting Page 6 of 15 Freerks asked about realtor signs and if there was a time limit on those signs. Ream said the limit is for as long as the property is for sale. Freerks noted that some buildings may have for lease signs up for years if some portion of the building is constantly for lease. Ream stated that is okay, as long as there is space available in the building for lease. Dyer asked about the illustration Ream showed for the temporary sign for property for sale, would that also apply for property for lease. Ream said lease is the same as for sale. Freerks opened the public hearing Nancy Bird (Executive Director, Iowa City Downtown District) first expressed her appreciation for this thoughtful conversation and review and a special thank you to Ream, Karen Howard and John Yapp who all worked closely with the Downtown District through this process. Bird acknowledged this process was very important and that there is a lot of data that indicates if one changes a sign so it is more visible on the street, it improves the business operations. Bird stated they currently have 335 businesses downtown and when someone comes into town as a visitor and cannot see down the street, and all the signs are flush against the buildings, it is losing opportunities for those businesses. It is the goal of the Downtown District to help support all the businesses and to retain them and keep them downtown and improve the environment. Signage is a really interesting thing because as Ream mentioned there are changes in the signage world. There are a lot of things that a long time ago were cut down (which the City did) due to fear of a world of restaurants and bars and all that signage. But things are turning and the Downtown District really wants to make sure they can capture the essence of the downtown identity by looking for local artists and local sign fabricators to get really authentic and creative signs out there. Bird noted that when they first approached the City with this project the Downtown District put their own funds out there and the City matched it. Bird stated that she feels good that parts of this new Sign Code will improve other parts of the City as well. Bird stated their three primary goals (1) to encourage best practices which are included, the consultant not only had a signage background but also an urban design and retail background and understood how important it really is for businesses to extend their brand out into the streets. (2) Allow room for creativity, this is not an auto -oriented environment, it is pedestrian - oriented environment which means the signage downtown has special needs. (3) Flexibility in knowing that one sign may not be right for all places. Flexibility is always the challenge for regulations, one blanket regulation that has to apply to everybody, so it was important to see how design guidelines could help support the process. On that note Bird stated the Downtown District is very appreciative of the Code efforts today, they feel they are really strong and are going to (in tandem with the design guidelines) really encourage more opportunities that aren't available now (especially with the projecting signs) so it really compels one to walk down the street. Bird noted that when a regulatory environment changes, it doesn't just happen so Bird forward information to the Commission about a new program called "Cosign" that they applied for earlier this year and they have accepted the Downtown District to look at the program. What will happen is the Downtown District will get applications from several businesses (10-15) to join this program, then get designers involved and look for fabricators and see what kind of built signs that they can create within this Code. Bird asserted that the Code right now is really important and this program will really encourage other businesses to renovate or re -do their signage based on the result of others they see. The importance of the Code at this juncture is to work with City Staff and this program so the businesses comply. In that vein the design review component continues to be important because there is a path forward for design review. Bird noted one of the things that was recommended is that while currently the City uses a third party consultant to look at development projects in the Gap Analysis (the National Development Planning and Zoning Commission October 6, 2016— Formal Meeting Page 7 of 15 Council) and it is a process that has worked really well for the City because it allows them to utilize and support professionals that understand that environment. It is not someone local so there is not a conflict of interest and the staff can rely on unbiased feedback to drive those projects. This is the same kind of process where a third party consultant could provide for signs that may not fit "in the box" provided by the sign regulations and take a look at a sign that maybe (because of its location, not content) would be appropriate in certain settings. Bird shared with the Commission an exhibit that showed three examples of what a rooftop signage looks like. It is not in the current Code right now, and probably shouldn't be added because it is not something you would want to proliferate all over downtown, but there are really cool opportunities in other cities where they have allowed this in certain circumstances. Bird stressed this is not about the content, and noted there is a piece of the Supreme Court case that states it is similar to a when a building has unique aesthetics. Signs can be the same. The content can be read differently but where the sign is located matters and what it can look like matters. Bird recognizes that the legal advice from the City is there to ensure no risk for any kind of litigation. Bird would encourages this Commission to think about it a bit differently and to say it is good input and it might open the door for some sort of risk but it would be worth it because she feels there are some opportunities for the Cosign program to see some very cool wayfinding signage that is a little "outside of the box" the City currently has. Bird again thanked the Commission for allowing her to speak and noted it is true that signs change over time but the whole point of opening up this conversation with the City was to reduce the amount of times the local businesses would have to come to Staff to make a call about amending the Sign Code again. That is a ton of time for Staff and can create then a Code that is layered and layered and then really doesn't work. Now it is streamlined, but with a design review process it would eliminate the need to amend for individual ideas (such as the rooftop sign) that is not in the Code. Bird hopes the Commission's consideration can be passed onto Council and then this discussion of how design review can happen could be considered in a future amendment process. Freerks closed the public hearing Signs stated he tends to agree that not having some mechanism in place for alternatives sounds like it will lead to problems very quickly. Theobald moved to approve City Code Section 14-56, Sign Regulations: Section 14- 3C, Design Review; and Section 14-9C, Sign Definitions to implement amendments related to the Iowa City Downtown District Storefront Design and Signage guidelines, and the Reed v. Town of Gilbert (2015) Supreme Court decision. Martin seconded the motion. Signs stated he liked the idea of third party design review, doesn't really understand it or how it would work but having lived in Iowa City for a long time now he has seen the evolution of signage changes (like fashion) and sees the advantages of being a little fluid. Freerks stated she is okay with adopting this as it is now, and it will be okay to revisit because new things do come about and need amended. She does feel this is a lot more streamlined and is not sure how design review would work, but likes the idea of having lots of opportunities for creative signage in the downtown area and across the area as a whole. Freerks asked Ream if the Staff discussed rooftop signage. Ream said they did not discuss rooftop signage a whole lot, not in this particular context, and there is an entire history of rooftop signage. Freerks Planning and Zoning Commission October 6, 2016 — Formal Meeting Page 8 of 15 acknowledged that one thing she has learned over time that allowing something that is perfectly manageable in one spot can be absolutely hideous and awful in another and feels that design review doesn't always catch that because people feel they are obliged to be able to have something when it is allowed. Freerks believes rooftop signage would have to be an issue on its own due to so many concerns (illumination, height, residential areas around, etc.). It's not to say it can't occur but it needs more conversation. Hektoen noted her concerns with design review is in looking at whether the City is going to pass strict scrutiny or intermediate scrutiny you must really justify the Government's interests in the regulation and the City can't say if it looks a certain way the regulation then doesn't really matter. It is really difficult to go to a court and justify the regulation when the City allows deviations from it. The interest is much less compelling or tailored when deviation is allowed. So the question then becomes why do we even have that regulation and should we just eliminate it. Hektoen said that design review really undermines the interest the City is trying to promote with the regulation. Hensch stated that sounds logical and agrees with what Hektoen said but the definition of Iowa City is this dynamic small metropolis that is being creative and does this then stifle how Iowa City is defined. Theobald feels this updated Sign Code allows for that creativity better. Freerks agreed stating there are a lot of possibilities here and if there is something someone doesn't see then bring it back to the City for discussion. Ream noted that some of the more commonly requested creative designs are three dimensional signs and those will now be allowed by this proposed Sign Code. So there is flexibility added into the proposed ordinance. Martin expressed that she really enjoyed hearing about the collaboration the City had with the Downtown District and feels this looks very nice and understandable and is excited to see what happens with this. Signs noted that he feels they did a very good job of eliminating the content based issue. He wanted to note he is very intrigued by the rooftop idea and can think of many cities where such signs are iconic to that city (such as the Traveler's umbrella in Des Moines) and it defines those areas and feels there could be a place for rooftop signage in Iowa City. Hensch asked if this sign policy allows for things that don't fit neatly "into a box", is there any discretion. Ream said if the City can't fit it into a category then it doesn't work and that is when the City would have to come back to the Commission for amendments. Dyer asked if the new sign on the Midwest One Bank fit into this new Sign Code. Ream replied that yes it would. It would be classified likely as an integral sign. A vote was taken and the motion carried 7-0. Planning and Zoning Commission October 6, 2016 — Formal Meeting Page 9 of 15 REZONING ITEM (REZ16-00002): Discussion of an application submitted by 1225 Gilbert, LLC & 1301 Gilbert, LLC for a rezoning from Intensive Commercial (CIA) zone to Riverfront Crossings - South Gilbert District (RFC - SG) zone for approximately 3.25 -acres of property located at 1225 S. Gilbert Street and approximately 1.3 -acres of property located at 1301 S. Gilbert Street. Howard began the staff report noting that there is part of the description that should have been included which is "to amend the conditional zoning agreement for approximately 3.97 acres of property located at 1201 S. Gilbert Street' that is the former Nagle Lumber site. Howard explained that the application was subsequently amended to include that because it is all part of the same redevelopment plan. Howard showed a map of the area which is the very southern portion of the Riverfront Crossings District. The area where the wastewater treatment plant was has been demolished and turned into green space for the future Riverfront Crossings Park. Ralston Creek is on the western portion of the subject properties for the rezoning. Howard noted that S. Gilbert Street is not a very pedestrian oriented street currently, but the Riverfront Crossings plan is all about transforming these areas into a walkable neighborhood with a riverfront park instead of a sewer plant. The area is currently low-density, land intensive commercial uses (lumberyard, nursery, etc.) with front parking lots and not a lot of defined traffic circulation. Howard pointed out an older building that has been vacant for a while but is now being repurposed into a craft brewery with a restaurant. That project will need to be incorporated into the redeveloped area in a manner that best meets the vision outlined Riverfront Crossings Master Plan. The property at 1301 S. Gilbert and a portion of the property at 1225 S. Gilbert are currently zoned Intensive Commercial (CI -1). The westernmost portion of the property at 1225 S. Gilbert Street is currently zoned Neighborhood Public (P1). Since this property is not currently owned by a public entity, it is unclear when or why this area was zoned Public. Regardless, the requested rezoning is an opportunity to clear up this matter. The property at 1201 S. Gilbert (former Nagle Lumber) was conditionally rezoned to Riverfront Crossings South Gilbert (RFC -SG) last year before the idea of repurposing the building at 1225 S. Gilbert into a brewery was proposed. The subject rezoning includes a request to amend the conditional zoning agreement to shift the required pedestrian street alignment north to allow the existing building at 1225 S. Gilbert to be repurposed as a brewery. Howard stated the subject properties are located within the South Gilbert Subdistrict of Riverfront Crossings, so rezoning the properties to this designation would be consistent with the plan. Howard shared an excerpt of the regulating plan that is in the Zoning Code for this district, some of the parameters for this zoning are that on the primary streets the buildings have to be built oriented towards those streets and built close to those streets. There are two pedestrian streets that lead over to the new park that are also listed as required primary streets and the Ralston Creek frontage is also considered a required pedestrian street. With regards to the Comprehensive Plan, Howard explained that the South Gilbert Subdistrict master plan objectives talk about capitalizing on Highway 6 access and visibility in this location, leveraging the riverfront area of the new park, improving pedestrian and bicycle connectivity, and restoring and enhancing conditions along Ralston Creek. The development character of the new neighborhood should be a mix of residential and commercial uses in this location, having urban frontage conditions (meaning the buildings are built close to the street with parking located behind), and a street and block pattern that emphasizes connections to the park and providing public access to the park. The maximum building height in this zone is 6 stories, but an airport overlay zone affects the allowed building heights in some locations on the property. Planning and Zoning Commission October 6, 2016 - Formal Meeting Page 10 of 15 Howard read from a section from the sub -area plan (that was adopted in 2011) that specifically focuses on enhancements to the public realm, which includes the streets and public open space and how the buildings frame that space. This section of the plan describes the improvements to the public realm that will be necessary to create the walkable pedestrian oriented environment that is envisioned for this area. Currently pedestrians and bicyclists are an afterthought. The existing environment is an uninviting place for pedestrians. The plan states that the design of the public realm including streets and the placement of buildings will greatly affect the quality of place for Riverfront Crossings. Pedestrian comfort and safety should be placed at a premium during the design phases. The circulation pattern should continue the gridded network of streets already in place while connecting to the larger trail network along the Iowa River. To connect residents and visitors along the Gilbert Street corridor to the park, east/west connections with pedestrian bridges across Ralston Creek should be developed. Consideration should be taken to provide amenities for pedestrians including landscaping, street furniture and other amenities. Howard pointed out that the form -based code with the new required east -west pedestrian streets is intended to provide a means to implement the vision of the Riverfront Crossings Plan. Currently these properties do not have a street grid in place and traffic and pedestrian circulation is confusing and undefined. First Street used to extend from Gilbert Street west to Ralston Creek, but was vacated and sold to Aero Rental. Second and Third Streets also do not extend west to Ralston Creek. In order to have urban development and a walkable neighborhood, smaller blocks with new street extensions over to the creek will be necessary. New smaller blocks will provide more street frontage that will increase the development potential for the properties as well as improving connectivity and pedestrian orientation for a new neighborhood to grow in the future. Howard reiterated that while this is a rezoning application it should be noted that a subsequent subdivision platting will need to occur to establish these new required streets. Otherwise the properties will not be able to develop as envisioned in the Riverfront Crossings Plan. Martin asked about the current speed limit on the southern part of Gilbert Street. It is currently 30 m.p.h and wondered if that would be reduced. Howard was uncertain about the speed limit, but that would be something to look into in the future as this corridor redevelops into a more urban, high density neighborhood. Howard showed another map from the Riverfront Crossings Plan that indicated all the pedestrian connections that would be beneficial to a new neighborhood. Moving onto Gilbert Street itself Howard showed a cross section of Gilbert Street envisioned in the plan and it shows a wider right-of-way for better pedestrian movement, comfort, and safety, and an attractive street frontage for new businesses. Dedication of land for this wider right-of-way will be necessary. Street trees are a very important buffer for shade and pedestrian comfort and safety, and should not just be an afterthought. The street cross section in the plan also indicates parallel parking along Gilbert Street, which would activate businesses and buffer the pedestrians from the travel lanes along the street. There is also a desire to accommodate bicycles along Gilbert Street and there would be parallel north -south bicycle routes through the park as well. Next Howard showed a map showing the green space and the pedestrian streets to access the green spaces. Howard explained that not only are these pedestrian streets for access to the park, but also could be used for stormwater management more appropriate to this urban setting rather than providing a stormwater basin in this area, more typical of lower density areas of the city. Green space along the pedestrian streets could be used as stormwater management to Planning and Zoning Commission October 6, 2016 — Formal Meeting Page 11 of 15 capture the water in bioswales and then direct it over to the creek. The City will be investing considerable resources to restoring Ralston Creek in this area so there is a need for careful stormwater management plan for the private development so that run-off will not degrade the stream corridor over time. Howard notes the plan does mention quite a few options for green infrastructure that might be appropriate for this setting. The developers have indicated an interest in exploring these options. Howard discussed the concept plan the developer submitted with their application which shows a basic street and building layout that is generally consistent with the Riverfront Crossings Plan. One of the variations from the plan, however, is the repurposing of the building at 1225 S. Gilbert into a brewery, which makes it necessary to shift the pedestrian street north. Staff notes that the benefit of shifting it to the north is that it will align with Second Street, which usually benefits traffic circulation and creates a logical street pattern. Howard showed the Commissioners several views of the concept plan. In summary, Staff is recommending approval with a number of conditions: (1) Dedication of 40 feet of land along Gilbert Street, some additional land may be necessary near the intersection with Highway 6 to accommodate turn lanes. These improvements must be dedicated to the City prior to issuance of an occupancy permit for the brewery at 1225 S. Gilbert Street. (2) Dedication of 30 feet of land along Ralston Creek as measured from the top of the bank prior to issuance of an occupancy permit for the brewery. The City anticipates working closely with the property owners during restoration of Ralston Creek to ensure that existing and future development is enhanced by the creek and park improvements. (3) Prior to issuance of a building permit for any new building on any of the subject properties, a subdivision plat must be approved that establishes a private street that extends west from Gilbert Street to the 30 -foot Ralston Creek pedestrian street. This street should align with 2nd Street and have a minimum 60 -foot right-of-way for the pedestrian street portion and 80 feet for the vehicular portion to provide adequate space for on -street parking. In addition, the subdivision plat should establish a 30 -foot wide cross access easement in a location parallel to and west of Gilbert Street in a manner that will provide safe and adequate traffic circulation and access to parking according to the Riverfront Crossings Plan. At the time of redevelopment this public cross -access easement must be constructed as a private rear alley that provides access to parking areas located behind buildings as illustrated in the Riverfront Crossings Plan. Staff recommends approval of REZ16-00002, a request to rezone approximately 4.57 acres of property located at 1225 and 1301 S. Gilbert Street from Intensive Commercial (CI -1) and (P-1) to Riverfront Crossing -South Gilbert (RFC -SG) and to amend the conditional zoning agreement for approximately 3.97 acres of property located at 1201 S. Gilbert Street, be approved subject to a revised conditional zoning agreement for the property at 1201 S. Gilbert Street and a new conditional zoning agreement for the properties at 1225 S. Gilbert Street and 1301 S. Gilbert Street or alternatively, a conditional zoning agreement that addresses all three properties, as outlined in the "traffic and pedestrian circulation" section of the Staff Report dated October 6, 2016. Hensch asked how the issue of the 100 or 500 year flood plains will be addressed, since this is at the delta of Iowa River and Ralston Creek. Parsons commented that it looked like on the maps that all the buildings were located outside the 100 year flood plain but a few buildings were in the 500 year flood plain. Howard agreed that buildings will have to be built above the 500 -year flood plain. She noted that none of the subject buildings were flooded in 2008 and the Planning and Zoning Commission October 6, 2016 — Formal Meeting Page 12 of 15 flood plain generally follows close to the eastern edge of the creek. The park will generally be lower and will help provide additional flood capacity. Hensch asked if the railroad truss that goes over Ralston Creek would be taken out. Howard said that is a question the City has for the park consultants. They need to examine that from an engineering and park design standpoint. Crandic Railway doesn't want it as it is an unutilized spur, so they said the City could have the bridge if they wanted it or they can take it out. Freerks stated that the developer's plan was moving in the right direction, but noted a concern that in the original Riverfront Crossings concept plan it appeared there was a stronger pedestrian draw from Gilbert Street into the area that will be public park land. She doesn't feel this concept reflects that, so she hoped that they would continue to refine this aspect and hoped to see it better defined when they bring in a subdivision plat. Signs agreed and said he was struggling because the concept of reusing an existing building from an environmental and sustainability standpoint is excellent but it then seems like the north half of the plan follows the Comprehensive Plan and then it's lost on the south half because of the building remaining and the way the traffic will be rerouted. Someone driving by on Highway 6 will just see a big parking lot. Freerks said proposed concept doesn't carry the pedestrians from Gilbert Street to the park as well as what is shown in the Riverfront Crossings Plan. Howard said that will need to be addressed in the subdivision process. Once the streets get laid out it will become apparent where the sidewalks should be and where the parking should be located. Freerks just wanted to make sure since a lot of public money is going into to be invested in this area, so there needs to be good access for the public to get to the park and not just those that will be living in the area. Signs commented on the width of Gilbert Street and that there would be 50 or 60 feet added to that corridor. Is that coming from these properties? Howard said that the plan showed most of the additional right-of-way would be from the west side of the street because of the larger properties and greater likelihood these would redevelop first. On the east side of the street there are a lot of smaller properties so being able to acquire and consolidate properties enough to redevelop would be a lot tougher. Signs questioned then what happens with the Aero Rental building, since it is already close to the street, will that hinder when this streetscape can be redone. Howard agreed that will likely be an issue. The Gilbert Street improvements are not yet in the 5 -year Capital Improvements Plan, but will likely be included as part of the discussion this year due to the pending redevelopment. It is up to the City Council to decide how they wish to allocate the City funds to the various projects around the city. Howard believes this redevelopment will be completed in phases taking into account the Gilbert Street improvements may not happen right away. Parsons asked about the idea of parallel parking on Gilbert Street and he is wondering outside of the downtown area, where else on a major street in Iowa City is parallel parking allowed. Howard believes there are quite a few arterial streets that have on -street parking. Freerks opened the public hearing. Steve Long (HBK Engineering) spoke representing the owner. He acknowledged that the partnership is excited to be part of Riverfront Crossings and also being part of the planning process. He appreciates the City inviting them to be part of that process. Long noted that it was seven years ago tomorrow that there was a large public kick-off for Riverfront Crossings planning effort and now the idea of what could really happen here is materializing. Planning and Zoning Commission October 6, 2016 — Formal Meeting Page 13 of 15 Freerks closed the public hearing Hensch moved to approve REZ16-00002, a request to rezone approximately 4.57 acres of property located at 1225 and 1301 S. Gilbert Street from Intensive Commercial (CI -1) and (13-1) to Riverfront Crossing -South Gilbert (RFC -SG) and to amend the conditional zoning agreement for approximately 3.97 acres of property located at 1201 S. Gilbert Street, be approved subject to a revised conditional zoning agreement for the property at 1201 S. Gilbert Street and a new conditional zoning agreement for the properties at 1225 S. Gilbert Street and 1301 S. Gilbert Street or alternatively, a conditional zoning agreement that addresses all three properties, as outlined in the "traffic and pedestrian circulation" section of the Staff Report dated October 6, 2016. Signs seconded the motion. Parsons stated he likes the idea of pedestrian connectivity and feels the placement of the buildings and all that will come into place when they come up for review. He really likes (a) the restoration of Ralston Creek as an asset to the area and also (b) blending Gilbert Street into the area, right now it is just kind of a four -lane speedway to people to get from one place to another. Cutting off those small driveways and making it a four -lane landscaped street with a median will really make it an asset to the area. Martin commented that she is loving where this area is going, but as a bicyclist the idea of all the parking spaces along Gilbert Street frightens her as cars will be backing in and out, so conceptually she is not seeing super pedestrian or bicycle friendly and hopes it will be improved as the plan is refined. Hensch believes this is all very exciting especially the idea of Ralston Creek redevelopment, particularly the overview of Riverfront Crossings park. This will be a premier area that will have a lot of interest for people to live, recreate and shop in that area. Signs agrees with everyone and likes the direction this project is going, and appreciates the development group's willingness to dedicate space to this nice new street and to orient their buildings to the park and the Ralston Creek walkway area. The fact that one group is looking at such a large area at one time is a great way to start a major redevelopment in that area. Dyer likes the idea but commented it scares her that it is one builder and that all the buildings may then look the same. Different owners might have different visions. A vote was taken and the motion carried 7-0. CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: SEPTEMBER 1, 2016 Signs moved to approve the meeting minutes of September 1, 2016. Hensch seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0. Planning and Zoning Commission October 6, 2016 — Formal Meeting Page 14 of 15 PLANNING AND ZONING INFORMATION: Miklo shared a flyer for two upcoming learn at lunch events being sponsored by the Human Rights Commission. Howard noted that the City has invited Jeff Speck, a nationally recognized urban designer and advocate for walkability, to speak in Iowa City on October 24. More information will be provided at the next meeting. ADJOURNMENT: Martin moved to adjourn. Hensch seconded. A vote was taken and motion carried 7-0. 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