HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016-10-18 Bd Comm minutesCITY OF IOWA CITY 4
MEMORANDUM
Date: 10/12/16
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Staff Member of Community Police Review Board
Re: Recommendation from Community Police Review Board
At their September 13, 2016 meeting the Community Police Review Board made the following
recommendation to the City Council:
(1) Accept CPRB Annual report
Additional action (check one)
No further action needed
Board or Commission is requesting Council direction
Agenda item will be prepared by staff for Council action
S:RECform.doc
FINAL/APPROVED
COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW BOARD
MINUTES — September 13, 2016
CALL TO ORDER: Vice Chair Joseph Treloar called the meeting to order at 4:36 P.M.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Monique Green, Donald King (5:30 P.M.), Mazahir Salih (5:35
P.M.), Orville Townsend
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Kellie Fruehling, Staff and Patrick Ford, Legal Counsel
STAFF ABSENT: None
OTHERS PRESENT: John Kirby, Public
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL
(1) Accept CPRB Annual report
NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION
Vice Chair Treloar handed out an outline for the orientation. He went over a description of the
Board, the complaint process, and Board member responsibilities.
During the orientation, John Kirby, a member of the public, asked questions concerning a
potential complaint he might have. Treloar explained the process to him and also stated that
the Board would not comment unless a complaint form had been filed and the process
followed.
Kirby thanked the Board and left the meeting and Treloar continued with the orientation.
Motion by Townsend, seconded by Green to recess the meeting until 5:30 P.M. to allow the
remaining members to arrive.
Motion carried, 3/0, King and Salih absent.
(Recess at 5:12 P.M. until 5:30 P.M.)
CONSENT CALENDAR
Motion by King, seconded by Green, to adopt the consent calendar as presented or amended.
Minutes of the meeting on 08/17/16
ICPD Department Memorandum #16-07 (March 2016 Use of Force Review)
ICPD Use of Force Report — March 2016
Motion carried, 4/0, Salih absent.
CPRB
September 13, 2016
Page 2
OLD BUSINESS
None.
NEW BUSINESS
Select Nominating Committee - King and Townsend volunteered to be on the nominating
committee. They will report back to the Board with recommendations for Chair and Vice Chair
at the next meeting.
CPRB FYI Annual Report (DRAFT) — The Board reviewed the draft prepared by staff of the
annual report.
Motion by King, seconded by Salih, to approve the annual report as drafted and forward to the
City Council. Motion carried, 5/0.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION
None.
BOARD INFORMATION
Salih informed the Board of the annual fundraiser dinner for the Center for Worker Justice on
Friday, October 14th at St Patrick's Catholic Church.
STAFF INFORMATION
Fruehling stated that there would be no executive session due to the Board receiving the
complaint information (including audio/video) at the meeting and having no time to review.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Not needed.
TENTATIVE MEETING SCHEDULE and FUTURE AGENDAS (subject to chance)
• October 11, 2016, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm
• November 8, 2016, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm (Election day, will be rescheduled)
• December 13, 2016, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm
• January 10, 2017, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm
Staff will coordinate with members and try to schedule another meeting before the tentatively
scheduled October 11th meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion for adjournment by Salih, seconded by King.
Motion carried, 5/0.
Meeting adjourned at 5:49 P.M.
COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW BOARD
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2015-2016
(Mee ting Date)
KEY: X =
TERM
9/8
10/12
12116
1/20
1/25
2/17
4/12
4/26
5/18
5/23
6/7
8/17
9/13
NAME
EXP.
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
O
X
O
NM
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
Salih
Donald
9/1/19
---
X
X
X
X
O
NM
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
King
Monique
7/1/20
---
---
---
---
---
---
---
---
—
—
X
X
Green
OrviHe
7/1/20
---
---
---
---
—
—
—
---
---
---
---
X
X
Townsend
KEY: X =
Present
O =
Absent
O/E =
Absent/Excused
NM =
No meeting
--- =
Not a Member
COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW BOARD
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Established in 1997, by ordinance #97-3792, the Iowa City Police Citizens Review Board formerly
known as Citizens Police Review Board and now known as Community Police Review Board
(hereafter referred as the CPRB), consists of five members appointed by the City Council. The CPRB
has its own outside legal counsel.
The Board was established to review investigations into claims of police misconduct, and to assist the
Police Chief, the City Manager, and the City Council in evaluating the overall performance of the
Police Department by reviewing the Police Department's investigations into complaints. The Board is
also required to maintain a central registry of complaints and to provide an annual report setting forth
the numbers, types, and disposition of complaints of police misconduct. The Board shall hold at least
one community forum each year for the purpose of hearing citizens' views on the policies, practices
and procedures of the Iowa City Police Department. To achieve these purposes, the Board complies
with Chapter 8 of the Iowa City Code and the Board's By -Laws and Standard Operating Procedures
and Guidelines.
ACTIVITIES AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2016
Meetings
The CPRB tentatively holds monthly meetings on the second Tuesday and special meetings as
necessary. During FY16 the Board held eleven meetings and one Community Forum.
ICPD Policies/Procedures/Practices Reviewed By CPRB
The ICPD regularly provided the Board with monthly Use of Force Reports, Internal Investigation
Logs, Demographic Reports and various Training Bulletins. The Department also provided various
General Orders for the Board's review and comment. A senior member of the Police Department
routinely attended the open portion of the CPRB meetings, and was available for any questions Board
members had regarding these reports.
Presentations
In April of 2016 the Board held its eighth Community Forum as required by the City Charter. The
Board did introductions, a brief overview and an update of the name change was given, and the forum
was opened to the public for questions. There was one member of the public that spoke at the forum,
in which they thanked the Board for their service to the Community.
Board Members
In October 2015 officers were nominated with Melissa Jensen as Chair and Joseph Treloar as Vice -
Chair. Donald King was appointed in September of 2015 for a four-year term.
COMPLAINTS
Number and Type of Allegations
Five complaints (15-03, 16-01, 16-02, 16-03, 16-04) were filed during the fiscal year July 1, 2015 —
June 30, 2016. Two public reports were completed during this fiscal period (15-02, 16-02). Two
complaints were summarily dismissed (15-03, 16-01) and two complaints filed in FY16 are pending
before the Board (16-03, 16-04).
Allegations
CPRB Annual Report FY 2016 — Approved 0911 31201 6 —1
Complaint #15-02 '
1. Unprofessional Behavior— Rudeness and Harassment— NOT SUSTAINED.
2. Differential Treatment —Violation of Civil Rights —NOT SUSTAINED.
3. False Reports — NOT SUSTAINED.
Complaint #15-03
SUMMARILY DISMISSED
Complaint #16-01
SUMMARILY DISMISSED
Complaint #16-02
1. Questionable interview and Interrogation tactics — SUSTAINED.
2. Unlawful Seizure of the Complainant's cell phone — SUSTAINED.
Level of Review
The Board decided, by simple majority vote, the level of review to give each report, selecting one or
more of the six levels specified in the City Code per complaint:
Level a
On the record with no additional investigation 2
Level b
Interview or meet with complainant 0
Level c
Interview or meet with named officer 0
Level d
Request additional investigation by Chief or 0
City Manager, or request police assistance
in the Board's own investigation
Level a
Board performs its own additional investigation 0
Level f
Hire independent investigators 0
Complaint Resolutions
The Police Department investigates complaints to the CPRB of misconduct by police officers. The
Police Chief summarizes the results of these investigations and indicates in a report (the Chief's
Report) to the CPRB whether allegations are sustained or not sustained. (If complaints are made
against the Chief, the City Manager conducts the investigation and prepares and submits the reports.)
The Board reviews both the citizens' complaint and the Chief's Report and decides whether its
conclusions about the allegations should be sustained or not sustained. The Board prepares a report
which is submitted to the City Council.
Of the Five allegations listed in the two complaints for which the Board reported, two were sustained.
The Board made comments and/or recommendations for improvement in police policy, procedures, or
conduct in two of the reports:
Complaint #15-02 — The complete video and audio record alone clearly refutes all of the allegations of
misconduct as baseless. In fact, after extensive audio and video review during this investigation, the
Complainant agreed the officer did not commit the violations that were alleged.
Complaint #16-02 — If an interpreter was needed when the Complainant met with the investigator from
Internal Affairs, someone other than one of the officers named in the complaint should have been
used.
CPRB Annual Report FY 2016 — Approved 09/13/2016 — 2
Name -Clearing Hearings
The ordinance requires that the Board not issue a report critical of the conduct of a sworn officer until
after a name -clearing hearing has been held. During this fiscal period, the Board scheduled one
name -clearing hearing, but none were held.
Complaint Histories of Officers
City ordinance requires that the annual report of the CPRB must not include the names of
complainants or officers involved in unsustained complaints and must be in a form that protects the
confidentiality of information about all parties. In the two complaints covered by the FY16 annual
report a total of six officers were involved with allegations against them.
ICPD Internal Investigations Logs
The Board reviewed the quarterly ICPD Internal Investigations Log, provided by the Chief of Police.
COMPLAINT DEMOGRAPHICS
The following is demographic information from the seven complaints that were completed in this fiscal
year. Because complainants provide this voluntarily, the demographic information may be
incomplete.
* Category/Number of Complainants
Age. National Origin: Color:
Under 21 0 American 0 White
21 & over 1 Unknown 2 Black
Unknown 1 Brown
Unknown
Sexual Orientation:
Gender Identity:
Sex:
Heterosexual
0
Female
0
Female
Unknown
2
Male
1
Male
Unknown
1
Unknown
Marital Status:
Religion:
Mental Disability:
Single
1
Unknown
1
No
Married
0
None
0
Yes
Unknown
1
Baptist
1
Unknown
Divorced
0
Physical Disability:
No 0
Yes 1
Unknown 1
* Information is reported as presented by the person completing the form.
BOARD MEMBERS
Melissa Jensen, Chair
Joseph Treloar, Vice Chair
Royceann Porter
Mazahir Salih
Fidencio Martinez/Donald King
CPRB Annual Report FY 2016 — Approved 09/13/2016 — 3
4b(2)
MINUTES APPROVED
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
JUNE 8, 2016
RECREATION CENTER— MEETING ROOM B
Members Present: Suzanne Bentler, Larry Brown, Clay Claussen, Maggie Elliott, Wayne Fett, Cara
Hamann
Members Absent: Lucie Laurian, Paul Roesler, Joe Younker
Staff Present: Juli Seydell Johnson, Chad Dyson, Zac Hall, Jessica Lang, Parks & Recreation
Staff, Eleanor Dilkes, City Attorney
Others Present: Chris Coretsopoulos, Lynne Beach, Jim Glasgow, Gretchen Schmuch
CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Claussen called the meeting to order at 5:00
OTHER FORMAL ACTION:
Moved by Fett. seconded by Elliott, to approve the Mav 11, 2016, 2016 minutes as written. Passed
5-0. (Laurian, Roesler, Younker absent).
PUBLIC DISCUSSION
None
CHAUNCEY SWAN PARK PLAN — ELEANOR DILKES, CITY ATTORNEY:
In Laurian's absence, Claussen shared her notes regarding the Chauncey Swan Park Plan. First, she noted
that she is very relieved that the cost of the construction of the stairs coming off back of building into the
park will not be deducted from the $500,000 budget allocated for park reconstruction. She is also grateful
that the City will be able to plant trees and shrubs above the geothermal system in the future if desired.
Laurian is concerned that Exhibit G states that all trees and bushes planted above the geothermal system
can be removed by the developer who will not be responsible for replacing those. At this point Attorney
Dilkes interjected that this is incorrect and that the developer will be required to either replace anything
that is disturbed within the park, such as trees or benches for example, or compensate the City for that
loss.
Laurian also noted that Exhibit G does not specify the boundaries or size of the easement allocated for the
geothermal system. She wrote that this is supposed to be included in Exhibit A which, according to the
City Attorney, has not yet been written or voted on. Therefore, she is recommending that the Commission
ask that when Exhibit A is written that is specify that the easement area for the geothermal system should
be composed of the eastern 75% of the site, thereby excluding the north -south strip along Gilbert Street.
She explained that this would allow for the planting of trees on the west side of the site and assure that
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
June 8, 2016
Page 2 of 6
they would not be disturbed and allow to mature. She further noted that it would allow the flexibility to
add a building on the west side of the park should that be desired in the future. Attorney Dilkes
commented that the agreement states that the entire park space will be occupied by the geothermal system
and that this agreement is final.
Therefore, Laurian is suggesting that when Exhibit A is written, that 75% of the east side of the park be
designated for geothermal placement and that 25% of the west side be left vacant of the geothermal
system, thus allowing for future structures or plantings if desired. Dilkes commented that Exhibit A
wasn't attached as it has not yet been defined or designed and with the developer being required to
compensate the City $10 per square foot, it is important that it be accurage. She also said that as per the
agreement, the geothermal system will occupy the entire park. She further noted that the agreement is
final.
Fett asked about the timeline for the construction. Dilkes reported that it is slate for completion in 2019
and that the developers hope to begin construction this fall.
THORNBERRY OFF -LEASH DOG PARK POND UPDATE — DAVID BOURGEOIS
Claussen noted that Jim Glasgow has spent a lot of time and money in construction of the pond at the
Thornberry Dog Park. While it has taken some time to complete, Claussen commended Glasgow for
doing a thorough job.
Dyson summarized the project stating that the previous pond, which was in place since the parks opening
in 2006, was in need of renovation. Jim Glasgow with Glasgow Construction agreed to donate the labor
and materials to install a new pond including a windmill aeration system to keep the water clean. J.C.
DogPAC contributed $5000 and the City contributed $10,000 toward the project as well. Construction of
the pond began in September of 2015 and reopened on May 28, 2016.
Glasgow explained that part of the delay occurred when Jay Proffitt began digging out the pond and ran
into sand. It became necessary to line the pond with a foot of clay before moving forward. Since then the
pond filled rather quickly and is holding water. Glasgow also reported that the grass around the pond and
dock had been growing well until the dogs returned. Many of them avoided the dock and took the shorter
route into the pond thereby creating a lot of mud. Glasgow is working towards a solution for this and
suggests possibly using Grasscrete. This is a concrete that one can either grow natural grass or can also be
filled with gravel.
Brown asked Glasgow is the windmill is functional or just there for aesthetics. Glasgow answered tha tit
is functional in that it aerates the water. Brown noted that when riding his bike past there in the morning
there have been times that the windmill was not turning. Glasgow said that it does need wind to run,
however, he has very seldom noticed it not running. He will follow-up.
Bourgeois noted that there are life-saving devices (buoy and shepherds hook) in place at the pond.
Bourgeois wanted to publically thank Glasgow for all his work on this project and for his generosity in
donating labor and material costs.
Claussen thanked Bourgeois for his time and effort in this project as well.
Moved by Elliott, seconded by Fett, to publically thank Jim Glasgow for his generosity in donating
his time and material costs to the pond restoration project at the Thornberry Off -Leash Dog Park.
Motion passed 6-0 (Laurian, Roesler, Younker absent).
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
June 8, 2016
Page 3 of 6
HICKORY HILL PARK MASTER -PLAN
Don Marner with Snyder and Associates was at tonight's meeting to update Commission on the status of
the Hickory Hill Park Master Plan. He noted that he has been working with the redesign Advisory
Committee consisting of city staff and four members of the Friends of Hickory Hill group. This
committee is working to create a redesign of the trails, bridges, signage and amenities as well as
programming of Hickory Hill Park. During this process the group identified project goals and objectives.
Two public meetings were held where good input was received. Some discussion also ensued with a
mountain bike group. From these meetings and the information gathered a master plan was developed.
Marner shared more specific information as follows.
Signage Component: Three main entrances: Conklin Lane, First Ave and Bloomington Street entrance.
Signage wize want to make sure people know how to get to these locations and parking lots. We have
portable restrooms planned and some other enhancements. Signage proposing — more of a kiosk type
design. Existing shelter Wayside North Shelter. Looking at color coding trails. Intepretive signs.
Trails/Bridge: At last public meeting the yellow is proposed 8' wide trails. Previously had discussed
interest of a commuter type use paved trail through the park. Once we heard back from the public we
looked as a granular surfaced secondary trail. We have three levels of trail system: paved trails,
secondary trail (6 & 8 width) and primitive trails.
Bridges —looked and identified where some are going to need to be replaced, some enhanced, channel
work to be done to make sure erosion wise no trouble in the future.
Regarding master plan for the single track mountain bikes, we are not going to include at this time. Theres
concerns with emergency access, parking, adding another program to the park. Keep dialogue going with
them to decide if this is the right park. Not shutting the door not high priority at this time or budget4ed.
$600,000 has been allocated over a three year plan. Improvements will be majority of secondary trails as
well as bridge improvements. Top properity secondary trails, bridge improvements, and signs.
Seydell-Johnson mentioned that there is still discussion that if the overall bike trail plan moved forward
and there was funding, possibility for the future. till shows as sa note as a possibility of the future. Want
to be clear on that.
Elliott asked what trails are now. Mixture, paved, chip seal at both north and south loop, essentially paved
but not concrete, chip seal. Some asphalt millings (lose granular surface) material, granular surface, holds
up well to erosion. Used for secondary trails, holds up well. Seydell-Johnson said that this caused some
confusion, thinking it is concrete where it is really a loose granular product, what is already out there.
Hamann asked what he is proposing for trail surfacing. He is proposing chip seal or something similar. He
will look at cost and longevity. Marner — Stream bank improvements.
We do have natural playground areas planned in a couple of areas but are lower on the priority list. Will
be based on budget.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
June 8, 2016
Page 4 of 6
Claussen are there any proposed changes in the routes. Marner for the most part it is the primitive trails
that we are doing some reallignments, not the secondary trails. Zac — identified early on one section
where the major erosion occurs crossing the stream, thought was how can we min
May be some rerouting but not getting rid of. Zac — again lower on the priority list
Is there consensus between FHH and the public.
PARKS & RECREATION FOUNDATION INFORMATION:
Seydell Johnson noted that as a follow-up to the April Parks and Recreation Commission meeting,
members of the Foundation met on Thursday, May 5, to discuss the possibility of redirecting funds to the
Community Foundation of Johnson County. The Foundation unanimously agreed that this is in the best
interest of the department and also agreed to dissolve the current Parks and Recreation Foundation. The
current balance in the Foundation is $73,115.16, of which $29,958.41 is designated for specific projects.
The Foundation will spend the designated funds and transfer the rest to the Community Foundation. The
Community Foundation offers an opportunity for the foundation funds to be administered under a much
larger umbrella. Seydell Johnson has followed up with the City Attorney to get a final opinion and is
awaiting a response. Claussen noted that the commission will still have an active role in future
fundraising plans.
REPORT ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF
Recreation Division Superintendent (Chad Dyson):
• Dyson said he and other staff were very pleased with the turnout for the ribbon cutting for the
new playground at Mercer Park.
Dyson reported that department staff is very busy preparing for summer programs. Staff is
prepping City Park Pool for its Memorial Day weekend opening, as well as the splash pads and
spray pad. Day camp registration is going very well.
Dyson reminded Commission that the funding for the Playgrounds program was reduced last
season, thereby making it necessary to eliminate several locations. He was happy to announce
that the program will return this season as funding is again available.
Parks Division Superintendent (Zac Hall):
• Hall announced that the department has hired Steve Erickson for a parks maintenance position.
He transfers from Transportation Services and has an environmental service background and a
history working in park districts. Hall said that the department will hire a second maintenance
worker in July.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
June 8, 2016
Page 5 of 6
• Hall announced that the first Party in the Park event will be at Glendale Park on June 2 from 6:30
to 8 p.m. Members were encouraged to attend.
• Hall received great comments from those who attended the Vicious Circle Disc Golf Tournament
that was held at the Peninsula course in Iowa City. The organizer said that they had the largest
turnout ever with 100 players attending. One of the players is a top ten touring professional who
stated that he was very impressed with how well the City worked with the group. They mentioned
that they will be looking into hosting a larger regional tournament in Iowa City in the future.
Parks & Recreation Director (Juli Seydell Johnson):
• Seydell Johnson announced that the Hickory Hill Master Plan public input meeting is scheduled
for May 15 from 2-3:30 p.m. in the Hickory Hill Park shelter at the south park entrance, 1439
Bloomington Street. Rain location is the Recreation Center Social Hall. There will also be a
public input meeting for Happy Hollow Park on Wednesday, May 25 from 4:45-5:45 p.m. at the
park. There will also be a meeting scheduled in the near future for Frauenholtz Miller Park.
CHAIRS REPORT — CLAY CLAUSSEN
Claussen would like to invite Jim Glasgow and David Bourgeois to the next Commission meeting to give
the group an update on the pond at Thomberry Dog Park.
COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS:
Younker commended staff for a job well done on the Mercer playground stating it is a huge hit with his
daughter.
Hamann asked for a follow-up on the recycling at parks and event venues discussion from last month
Seydell Johnson will invite Jennifer Jordan, Recycling Coordinator, to a future meeting.
Hamann was questioning what concerns The Avacentre has about allowing kegs at event facilities.
Seydell Johnson said that they have experienced difficulty with maintaining demeanor and clean up at
parties where kegs have been allowed. Seydell Johnson said that she will continue to explore this option.
Bentler thought that the smaller kegs should be allowed and that perhaps it needs to be determined if this
rule is deterring people from renting the facilities.
Fett mentioned that he too would like to have more discussion about recycling options for public
facilities. '
Bentler wanted to draw attention to a letter that was enclosed in the packet. This is a letter from Robert
McKay regarding the preservation of woodland wildflowers at City Park. He is encouraging staff and
commission to plan so that the least amount of damage is done to this area.
Laurian said that she is very impressed with the Hickory Hill plan. She has heard positive comments
about the dog park pond as well.
Roesler said that his family too is really enjoying the new Mercer playground. He said that it is the only
playground where he has seen kids waiting in line to play. Seydell Johnson added that the Optimist Club
has donated $2000 for the renovation of the fire track at Mercer.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
June 8, 2016
Page 6 of 6
Brown asked about some cabling that is being run through City Park from above. Hall said that this is part
of the utility work for the Gateway project.
Hamann mentioned the Bike Boulevard program that will be riding from City High to the Farmers Market
on May 21. A temporary bike lane will be set up on College Street from 8 a.m. to noon. The route will
begin at City High and end at the Farmers' Market at Chauncey Swan Park. The goal is to encourage
people to push for a more bike -friendly city and to educate the community on bike safety. The group will
also hand out educational material at both ends of the route.
Hamann also reminded Commission of the Move Naturally to the Market program. When a person walks
or rides their bike to the market, they will receive a $2 coupon to use at the market. This program will run
Saturdays in May.
Laurian noted that Iowa City Mayor Jim Throgmortan issued a "Regenerative City Day" proclamation at
a recent City Council meeting. This proclamation states that the city "must take decisive action to
significantly reduce community-based greenhouse gas emission.: The goals of a "Regenerative City" is
to plant native prairies and trees to store carbon in the soils; expand urban agriculture to power the city
and neighborhoods efficiently through green building designs and renewable energy.
nar1ri».iamal
Moved by Bentler, seconded by Hamann, to adjourn the meeting at 6:45 p.m. Motion passed 8-0
(Elliott absent).
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
June 8, 2016
Page 7 of 6
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
NAME
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Suzanne
1/1/17
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Bender
David
1/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
Bourgeois
Larry Brown
1/1/18
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
Clay
1/1/18
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Claussen
Maggie
1/1/17
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
Elliott
Wayne Fett
1/1/19
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
X
X
X
X
Cara
1/1/16
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
Hamann
Katie Jones
1/1/18
X
X
*
Lucie
1/1/15
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
Laurian
Paul Roesler
1/1/18
*
*
*
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
Joe Younker
1/1/16
O/E
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting LQ = No meeting due to lack of quorum
* = Not a member at this time
4
MINUTES - APPROVED
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
SEPTEMBER 1, 2016 — 7:00 PM — WORK SESSION
HELLING CONFERENCE ROOM — CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Carolyn Dyer, Mike Hensch, Ann Freerks, Phoebe Martin, Max
Parsons, Mark Signs, Jodie Theobald
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Sara Hektoen, Bob Miklo
Freerks called the meeting to order at 5:30 PM.
VIEWING AND DISCUSSION OF MISSING MIDDLEVIDEO ABOUT HOUSING
DIVERSITY:
Miklo introduced the video of Dan Parolek's presentation of the Missing Middle
housing concept that occurred at the Iowa City Public Library in May. He noted that
some of the Commissioners had attended that event. He said that the Commission
is familiar with the Missing Middle as it was discussed in the recently adopted
South District Plan. The video may be viewed at:
http://view.earthchannel.com/PlayerController.aspx? PGD=iowacity&e1D=1518
After the video the Commission discussed the presentation.
Martin asked if the type of housing that would be behind the old Brueggers on Riverside Drive
could be considered the Missing Middle. Miklo stated those would be a larger scale that the
Missing Middle concept generally consists of buildings that are 2 to 8 units.
Freerks said the conversation was about a scale of apartment buildings being the same scale
as a house, so it depends on what the scale of a house is. She believes this form of housing is
very important especially in the South District. Because this is a new area, the City has to learn
to create a mix of housing in new areas. Currently we are only seeing single-family homes and
then large apartments complexes further away.
Dyer noted that co -housing is a new form of housing being introduced to the city and that it has
characteristics similar to the Missing Middle.
Martin noted that there used to be a lot of houses on the north side that had been converted to
stacked duplexes. For example 711 Gilbert Street was recently a UniverCity Neighborhood
Partnership project that was converted from a stacked duplex into a single-family home.
Freerks noted she has lived her in neighborhood for 20 years and is concerned about the
balance of single family homes and multi -unit building in some of these "near neighborhood".
She doesn't see how adding more density to some of the older neighborhoods really works with
Planning and Zoning Commission
September 1, 2016 —Work Session
Page 2 of 6
the goals of stabilizing the neighborhood. Freerks noted one of the key quotes Dan Parolek
made in his presentation was "the builders will show up". Freerks believes that is the bottom
line, people have worked in these neighborhoods where there is a great deal of pressure from
the University for housing students to try to open up some spaces for single-family homes.
Some of the inner neighborhoods have some of the greatest diversity in housing types and
higher density than any other type of housing anywhere else in the city. Miklo noted that some
of these areas already have the Missing Middle. Freerks agreed and therefore doesn't see
applying something that would open up more development in those areas. Freerks feels
however there are areas in Iowa City where it could be applied with a great deal of success but
the key is it needs to create redevelopment where the City wants redevelopment.
Theobald noted that redevelopment in the right way is the key. Freerks stated that she can't
see how increasing density in certain areas would be a good thing. Theobald agreed, but said
the concept states no larger than a house. Freerks agreed but stated that people know the
value of the lots in these neighborhoods by the University and close to downtown. Therefore to
start the "missing middle" idea in an outer area where it can be applied more evenly and easily
is absolutely key and important. She has a great deal of hesitation of applying this concept to
near neighborhoods.
Martin asked about carriage houses. Miklo noted that those are allowed currently as accessory
apartments for owner occupied single family homes in the RS -5 and RS -12 zones.
Hensch questioned that if the 12-plex behind Freerks' house burnt down what would happen to
that lot. Freerks said the owner would just build another 12-plex. Theobald felt they would not
be able to under this concept. Miklo said if it were destroyed by more than 75% then whatever
the current zoning (form -based or lower density) would be applied. The issue is the foundation
generally has to be destroyed for it to be considered more than 75% destroyed. Freerks noted
she doesn't really mind a 12-plex in her backyard, it offers a certain type of affordable housing
for people who don't want to live in a 4 -bedroom unit with other people.
Martin said she made notes while watching the video of places in the city where she felt may
already fit into this concept. The Peninsula was mentioned at the start of the conversation but
also Court Street and Scott Boulevard have a lot of little apartment buildings (four-plexes in a
row) and townhouses that are either four or six units in a row. But also was thinking that
Saddlebrook also provided a variety. Miklo noted that the buildings in Saddlebrook are either
12-plexes or larger. Martin agreed in the apartment parts, but they also have the Belmont area
out there that has the 4-plex and the duplexes. Miklo agreed and noted that was a planned
development where this concept was applied, before it was known as the "missing middle'
concept. Martin feels then that the City has already been having this conversation for a long
time about transitions.
Signs said he sat in on the session with the developers the day Dan Parolek gave his
presentation and part of it is that it looks at the form and provides some consistency. Right now
those types of projects are done through Planned Development zones. That is because it is the
only way they can overlay it if they want those types of projects. Miklo confirmed, because the
underlining zoning is single-family. Miklo explained that the "missing middle" is to write a code.
Signs said that developers hate planned developments because they are very time intensive
and cost intensive to create. The developers would rather see this predictability of a form -based
code. Then they would know if they meet a certain criteria they are good to go. Miklo stated
that a form based code would be like having a pre -approved planned development. Freerks
Planning and Zoning Commission
September 1, 2016 — Work Session
Page 3 of 6
agreed but noted that space has something to do with it because it is best to have a big space
that is starting from somewhat fresh which is why it is very different to have this concept in
certain areas of the city.
Martin noted that the concept also talks about walkability, but truly some areas are only
walkable to maybe a Casey's, no other necessities. Signs noted that the Comprehensive Plan
calls for some areas for small businesses. Freerks also noted that with greater density than just
single -family homes there would be more opportunity for bus services.
Martin noted that the term walkable means different things to different people. In the video
when someone brings up the question of accessibility Perolek's answer is to look at universal
design or accessibility as the same thing and she felt that was a mixed message. Parsons also
noted that everyone's definition of a house is different.
Dyer noted that in most co-housing communities there is no concern about privacy on the first
floor. Houses are close together intentionally. In other developments it seems like they want to
be further and further apart. Miklo said the difference is in the co-housing the pedestrian routes
are not through routes, but for the people in that housing community. Freerks stated that co-
housing also consists of very nice green spaces for the community and other amenities.
Martin said she found it interesting that Perolek talked about a couple of different communities.
For example, Richmond California. Martin stated it was not a place she would get off the train
with her children, it is a very different community. Additionally, New Orleans, she would not
want to emulate what they do there. Iowa City is such a different community.
Signs noted that when he lived in Des Moines he lived for a while In the Sherman Hill district, it
feels exactly like what we are trying to do with the missing middle in Iowa City. It is a pre-1940's
neighborhood six by six blocks just west of downtown and the hospital district. The
neighborhood is made up of 4-plex, 6-plex, 12-plex and single -family homes. The mix of
housing worked great in that neighborhood, and there were also some small shops in the
neighborhood. The West Grand neighborhood in Des Moines is also similar.
Freerks said the challenge is that close to a university it becomes overrun with student housing.
Signs agreed and said that is a challenge he wished someone had an answer for. Freerks
noted that she has observed the neighborhood stabilization efforts over many hears and doesn't
want all the positive work that the neighborhood associations and the Commission have done
be undone. It is difficult to keep stability in neighborhoods, even with the UniverCity partnership
program. There have been four homes in her neighborhood that have recently gone to rentals.
Therefore adding more density and development to areas, especially conservation zones, is not
the best solution.
Signs said he was not suggesting converting the older neighborhoods but rather how this
concept could work to create new neighborhoods. Freerks agreed, it would be a good concept
for creating new areas.
Theobald noted that her neighborhood was undergoing the same transition. Homes are being
turned into rentals, and it's not just one or two people living in the rentals, but five guys plus their
girlfriends. So the idea of having new neighborhoods with a balanced mix of housing is enticing.
Signs stated that while he does not know the exact historical preservation language there
Planning and Zoning Commission
September 1, 2016 — Work Session
Page 4 of 6
seems like there could be a way to protect the neighborhood but yet to allow opportunity.
Hensch agreed, noting that eventually the structures would become old and unrepairable and
someone would have to tear them down and rebuild something. There are many houses and
apartment complexes that were not constructed with quality construction and were thrown up
quickly and they will come down someday.
Miklo said those are probably more in the conservation districts and not the historic districts.
When the historic preservation did the evaluations for the historical district those were based on
National Register of Historic Places. They tend to be more solid houses and that is why they
qualify.
Freerks said there are stipulations put in place already through the conservation district and the
replacement and how it is dealt with. Miklo agreed and said that in the conservation district they
can get to the level where there are buildings that are non-contributing or modern (40 or 50 year
old buildings that were not built all that well) and there may be an opportunity for
redevelopment. If this concept were to be applied to conservation districts the City would need
to go back and reevaluate each building. He noted that one of the theories of the conservation
district is it is made a conservation district and over time buildings are improved and fixed up so
that the district can become historic. So each property would have to be evaluated to know
which ones should be preserved and which ones could be redeveloped.
Freerks asked what leads to stability in a neighborhood then. Miklo feels that is another
question aside from the historical value of a neighborhood. It is a valid concern and the City will
need to involve the neighborhoods as this process moves forward. Freerks noted that if the
goal is to redevelop and reinvent and renew and make sure the builders show up, perhaps the
conservation districts in the neighborhoods are not the places to start with that. Perhaps to start
elsewhere and see if there is success.
Signs feels that is the plan. The plan is not to run into the Northside and make changes.
Freerks noted it is on the list however. Miklo referred to a memo that says the Council decided
to look at the Northside as one of the areas. Miklo said Staff feels that perhaps the southern
area of the Northside that is not in historic or conservation districts. He also noted the key to the
"missing middle" is it is not all multi -family or duplexes, there are single-family houses in those
neighborhoods. Freerks said that the single-family are a rarity in certain neighborhoods near
downtown and while they may look like single family homes they are really duplexes and
triplexes so there is already a variety of housing types. And there needs to be a variety of
housing types for a variety of income levels. If older structures were torn down and replaced by
new structures the cost of living in those structures would likely increase as well.
Dyer noted that the Miller Orchard area might benefit from this concept. She noted there are 27
restaurants within walking distance, there are grocery stores, and one can do almost anything
they need to do commercially within walking distance.
Parsons stated that most of this is focused on permanent housing and not rentals. Miklo said
that the City cannot prevent someone from renting a property. Martin asked then how would
more duplexes create more stability. Freerks said that because in certain neighborhoods the
diversity of housing types is not missing. In other neighborhoods it is missing so they could
benefit from some duplexes and other housing types to give more people options of living in
those neighborhoods.
Planning and Zoning Commission
September 1, 2016— Work Session
Page 5 of 6
Martin asked about neighborhood commercial and what is allowed. Miklo said the City does
allow neighborhood commercial zones but the issue is in today's market it is hard to compete
with the larger commercial entities such as HyVee. It is more to do with the market than to do
with zoning.
Signs stated that his understanding of form -based code is that the idea is more how the building
is designed and what it looks like rather than what is inside the building. Therefore there could
be an office open in what looks like a single family home. Miklo confirmed that was the case
and an example is the Peninsula Neighborhood.
Miklo summarized the conversation stating that applying this "missing middle" concept will be a
lot easier to green fields rather than to existing neighborhoods. He noted the Council has
directed Staff to draft a Request For Proposals (RFP) to seek a consulting firm to draft a code
by working with the neighborhoods, beginning with focus on the south districts, and some of the
north district. He feels the south districts will be easier because it will be working with a blank
slate.
As this moves forward, Freerks reiterated that the key is if neighborhood is found to be "missing"
housing diversity. If not, then don't mess with that neighborhood. Theobald said that depends
on how "missing" is defined. If it's in aesthetics and style than even if there is already diversity
in housing it still might not be the aesthetics or style the City wants.
CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: AUGUST 4, 2016
Hensch moved to approve the meeting minutes of August 4, 2016.
Parson seconded the motion.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0.
ADJOURNMENT:
Martin moved to adjourn.
Hensch seconded.
A vote was taken and motion carried 7-0.
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APPROVED
MINUTES
Iowa City Telecommunications Commission
August 29, 2016 — 5:30 P.M.
City of Iowa City Cable TV Office, 10 S. Linn St. - Tower Place, LEVEL 3A
Call to Order: Meeting called to order at 5:30 P.M.
Members Present: Alexa Homewood, Nick Kilburg, Laura Bergus, Derek Johnk, Paul
Gowder
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: Ty Coleman
Others Present: Gerardo Sandoval, Bond Drager
Recommendations to Council : NONE
Approval of Minutes:
Kilburg moved and Johnk seconded a motion to approve the July 25, 2016 minutes as
presented. The motion passed unanimously.
Announcements of Commissioners:
Homewood announced that she would be stepping down from her position with the
Telecommunications Commission for personal reasons. Homewood noted that her time
with the Commission had been an enjoyable experience. The Commission expressed its
appreciation for Homewood's contributions.
Short Public Announcements:
None
Consumer Issues:
No discussion
Mediacom Report not including litigation:
No report was received from Mediacom. Johnk noted the recent news in the media
regarding the litigation, though no specifics were discussed. Johnk questioned whether it
would be permissible for the Commission to discuss any possible, additional Internet
service providers in the Iowa City area. Coleman said he would inquire about this with
the City.
Local Access Reports:
Sandoval stated that this was his first time submitting a quarterly report for Public Access
Television (PATV). He noted that he had discussed the quarterly reports with Coleman
APPROVED
and that he would be happy to provide more information, based on PATV's contract with
the City, as requested by the Commission.
City Cable TV Office Report:
Coleman noted that the Cable TV Office's production activities were transitioning from
many summertime concerts and events to more lectures, presentations, and forums.
Coleman said that some series programming, produced with organizations such as the
Iowa City Foreign Relations Council and the State Historical Society of Iowa, would be
starting up again. Coleman also mentioned that the Cable TV Office had recently been
contacted by the Iowa City Noon Rotary Club to record some of its upcoming
programming, noting that this was an organization whose public programs had not been
covered in the last several years.
Coleman reported that the City recently hired Jack Brooks into the role of Special
Projects Assistant within the Cable TV Office. Coleman said that Brooks hit the ground
running and has been doing great work that is strengthening the Cable TV Office's
support of the City's Communications Office and its efforts.
Adiournment:
Johnk moved and Homewood seconded a motion to adjourn. The motion passed
unanimously. Adjournment was at 5:39 p.m.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
12 -MONTH ATTENDANCE RECORD
(x) = Present
(o) = Absent
(o/c) = Absent/Called (Excused)
Elias
Bergus
Kilburg
Johnk
Homewood
09/28/2015
x
x
x
x
x
10/16/2015
x
x
x
x
x
11/23/2015
x
x
o/c
o/c
x
01/25/2016
o/c
x
x
x
x
02/22/2016
x
x
x
x
o/c
Gowder
03/28/2016
x
x
o/c
o
x
04/25/2016
x
x
o/c
x
x
05/31/2016
x
x
x
x
o/c
06/27/2016
o/c
x
x
x
o/c
07/25/2016
o
x
x
x
o/c
08/29/2016
x
x
x
x
x
09/26/2016
x
x
x
o
resigned
(x) = Present
(o) = Absent
(o/c) = Absent/Called (Excused)