HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016-11-15 Bd Comm minutesFINAUAPPROVED
4b(1)
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.
NOMINATIONS FOR OFFICE OF VICE -CHAIRPERSON
Motion by Treloar and seconded by Green to nominate Townsend 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 Townsend for Vice -Chair.
Motion carried, 3/0, King and Salih absent.
R90
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.
• November 8, 2016, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm (moved to November
• 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
(Meeting Date)
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
--- = Not a Member
TERM
9/8
10/12
12/16
1/20
1/25
2/17
4/12
4/26
5/18
5/23
6/7
8/17
9/13
10/11
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
X
Treloar
Royceann
9/1/16
O
X
O
X
X
X
NM
X
X
X
O
---
Porter
Mazabir
9/1/17
X
O
O/E
O
X
O
NM
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
O
Salih
Donald
9/1/19
---
X
X
X
X
O
NM
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
WE
King
Monique
7/1/20
---
---
---
---
---
---
---
---
---
---
X
X
X
Green
Orville
7/1/20
—
---
---
---
---
---
--
X
X
X
Townsend
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
--- = Not a Member
4b(2)
MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
AUGUST 11, 2016
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL
APPROVED
MEMBERS PRESENT: Esther Baker, Zach Builta, Gosia Clore, Cecile Kuenzli, Ginalie
Swaim, Frank Wagner
MEMBERS ABSENT: Thomas Agran, Sharon DeGraw, Andrew Litton, Pam Michaud,
Ben Sandell
STAFF PRESENT: Jessica Bristow, Bob Miklo
OTHERS PRESENT: Kevin Bell, Molly Bell, J. Tucker Krone, Alicia Trimble
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (become effective only after separate Council action)
CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Swaim called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA:
Trimble stated that one of the long time board members of Friends of Historic Preservation,
Claire Sponsler, passed away recently. Trimble said that Sponsler had been on the board of
Friends for about 13 years and was a very active member of the North Side. She said that
Sponsler's memorial service would be Saturday at Preucil School at 2:00 p.m.
CERTIFICATES OF APPROPRIATENESS:
408 Fairchild Street.
Wagner said he would recuse himself with regard to this certificate and on the next project, as
he is the contractor for the proposals.
Bristow said that this property is in the North Side Historic District and involves two projects.
She said that the house is a Tudor revival and was built between 1929 and 1932. Bristow said
that, as one can see from the windows and the entrance canopy, the house does have some
Craftsman -style details as well, including some wood shake cedar siding on the second floor.
Bristow said the house has a small garage with a flat roof on the side. She said that the
applicant would like to remove the garage and build a new structure. Bristow stated that the
new structure is not quite a conforming parking structure so it would not technically be a garage,
but it would be built and detailed like a garage and would be pushed back into the back yard.
Bristow said that one can see, with the existing structure, that it has siding that matches the
house. She said that the interior wall between the house and the garage also has siding,
although she does not know if the garage was added later or not. Bristow said staff feels that
the pitch of the roof really makes it not work with the verticality of the house very well. She said
staff finds that the design as well as the functionality could lead to the idea that it could be
approved to remove the current garage.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
August 11, 2016
Page 2 of 9
Bristow showed a view of the garage from the back. She said there is a door that leads from
the house, down a couple of steps, and to the door into the garage area. Bristow said they
would just have a door that went out to the side yard.
Bristow said that the new storage/garage would have a roof pitch that would be similar to that of
the house. She said it would also have lap siding of either wood or fiber cement board. Bristow
said it would also have a carriage-style door.
Bristow said that currently there is not a plan for any windows, although there is a plan for a side
door entering into the yard. She said it would face west.
Kuenzli asked if, since there are shingles under the peak of the gable on the house, it would be
appropriate to put some on the garage as well. Bristow said that would certainly tie the
structures together more.
Bristow said that there are some aspects of the second project that do not exactly meet the
guidelines. She said that the guidelines allow room for the Commission to make an exception
for specific projects. Bristow said the guidelines discuss exceptions for non-historic structures,
which this is clearly not. She said there are places where the guidelines are silent or unclear,
which is also not the case here.
Bristow stated that uncommon situations are something that the Commission can look to as a
basis for the exception on this project. She said that the guidelines discuss allowing
architectural flexibility, basically where the project satisfies the intent of the guidelines without
quite meeting the guidelines. For this project, Bristow stated that the Commission would need
to come up with a way that this does satisfy the need for an exception, in order to approve the
project as presented in the staff report and the application.
Bristow said that currently the house has a dormer on the back with a shed roof and shingled
siding, as do all of the second floor areas. She said that inside that is a bathroom. Bristow said
that originally the applicant produced a plan to extend the dormer with eight-inch setbacks on
the sides of the house, while the guidelines call for three-foot setbacks. Bristow said that the
face of a dormer is typically supposed to be mostly window. She said that the goal is to get
window and light in. Bristow said that the original dormer here is not really doing that.
Bristow stated that the revised plan extends the dormer but has 18-inch setbacks, so it is a little
bit more pulled back from the end walls of the hosue. She said there will a little bit more of an
interruption of the roofline, so it will not look like an extension of the side wall quite as much.
Bristow said that one of the things staff felt is important and one of the reasons the setback is
required is how one sees this from the street and how the roofline looks. She said that staff has
produced some 3-D images to show what one would see from a street view, approximately.
Bristow showed the recommended three-foot setback and the view from a similar angle. She
said it shows basically what one would see if the plan was pulled in three feet on each side.
Bristow showed a comparison of an 18-inch and a three-foot setback. She said that one sees a
little bit more of the roofline. Bristow said that it is interrupted so that it doesn't look like a
continuation of the side wall, but one does see a little bit more of the dormer.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
August 11, 2016
Page 3 of 9
Bristow said that while the 3-D model doesn't have the window set into it, it shows kind of what it
would look like from the back. She added that this house has a very small lot, so it is difficult to
photograph it straight on. Bristow said it is a very small house on a very small lot, so it is hard to
see.
Swaim asked what the current setback is. Miklo said he believes it is more like six to seven feet
from the east edge of the house. Swaim agreed that it is a very narrow house.
Kuenzli said that she feels the 18-inch setback is a good compromise, and it certainly affords
the house becoming much more livable because it is so small and on a small lot.
Builta asked if there are any graphics of the staff diagram of a two-foot setback. Bristow said
that she did model that but did not include it because, once it was modeled, it became obvious
that at least from the one view, that six inches did not make an apparent difference in the side-
by-side pictures between the 18 inches and the two feet.
Kevin Bell said that he and his wife are lifetime residents of Iowa City. He said they have
purchased this house and are asking that the Commission to make the compromise to an 18-
inch setback and split the difference with them. Kevin Bell said that, because of the small space
upstairs, they are trying to make more room for the master bedroom, a bathroom, and another
powder room.
Kevin Bell said that it is really hard to see the back of the house from the street. Molly Bell said
that they do not have alley access, because it is too close to the corner, so one cannot see it
from the back. She stated that one can kind of see it from Gilbert Street with the right turn, but
there isn't much one can see.
Bristow stated that historically this was a large lot with the house to the west and then the house
to the north of that. She said it had a commercial building, and then the area was divided up.
Bristow said that the house around the corner to the north goes along the alley and actually
overlaps.
Miklo said that this project would require three motions: one approving the demolition of the
garage, approval of the new storage building, and a motion for the dormer. He said that if the
Commission chooses to grant the exception, the reasons will need to be stated.
Bristow said that there would be additional windows for the dormer addition. She said they
would match as closely as possible, but that would be something the Commission might want to
have staff and the chair approve when the windows are submitted.
MOTION: Kuenzli moved to approve the removal of the garage at 408 Fairchild Street.
Builta seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 5-0-1 (Agran, DeGraw,
Litton. Michaud, and Sandell absent; Wagner abstaining).
MOTION: Clore moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the construction of
the storage structure at 408 Fairchild Street, with the option of having shingles on the
upper side of the building. Kuenzli seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote
of 5-0-1 (Agran, DeGraw, Litton. Michaud, and Sandell absent; Wagner abstaining).
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
August 11, 2016
Page 4 of 9
MOTION: Builta moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project at 408
Fairchild Street as proposed and with approval of the 18 -inch setbacks for the dormer as
proposed. He stated that the reduced setback would bean acceptable exception due to
the size and space of the house and because of the limited visibility that this would have
to the public. Baker seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 5.0-1 (Agran,
8 Bella Vista Drive
Bristow said this house is in the Brown Street Historic District. She said the house is brick and
stucco with a kind of prairie -school style, hipped roof cottage kind of form. Bristow said that a
lot of the windows have been replaced, and there are not as many divided lights as there once
were.
Bristow said that one of the interesting things with this project is the fact that in 2004, the
Commission approved a really extensive project that was not implemented. She referred to an
image of that and informed the Commission that it did go through, even though this project
should not be based on that. Bristow said the proposal was very extensive and is not even
close to what is currently proposed.
Bristow said that along the facade to the far side, there is a brick area that has been infilled.
She said that the brick clearly does not match, and the brick around the opening has not been
cut. Bristow stated that it looks like it has an original sill of brick and it definitely has an original
header, so there was an opening there at some point in time. She said it was probably a
window or a door that someone enclosed. Miklo said that it was probably once a French door,
very similar to what is being proposed.
Bristow said that, because it is kind of a wide opening, the plan is to put in a pair of French
doors. She said that the front door has a divided light pattern, and there is also a divided light
pattern on some original windows on the back of the house, although most of the rest have
been replaced. The new French doors would match that pattern. Bristow said that it would be a
little bit wider set of French doors, and the trim would match the other openings in the brick wall
with probably some kind of a brick mold. She said that it would remove all of that infill brick that
doesn't match.
Bristow said that the other part of the project is to reconstruct the stoop and patio. She said that
there currently is a brick wall along the stoop that continues along the face all the way around
the patio. Bristow said that would be reconstructed as needed, as some of the bricks have
really deteriorated. She said the applicant would work with staff to come up with a match.
Bristow stated that it would be reconstructed except for one area that she showed. She said
there are obviously some basement windows, and the proposal is to remove the one section
and then be able to remove the grills and things that are blocking the basement windows.
Bristow said there would therefore be a reconstructed stoop. She said that it would have a
concrete slab top, and it would be stamped concrete to match what is there now, which appears
to be incredibly mildewed or stained. Bristow said that whatever it is, it would be matched. She
added that then there would be a step or two or whatever it takes down on the side and the
same up on the other side. Bristow said that the two would not necessarily have to
communicate or connect, because there will be a door now leading on to the patio. She said
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
August 11, 2016
Page 5 of 9
that having this extra raised area basically serves to block windows in the basement from light
and air.
Kuenzli said that the only other window with muntins in it is the main door. Bristow answered
that there are a couple on the back that still do have them, and they are also up in the attic
dormer. Kuenzli asked if there are any plans to change any of the other windows on the front.
Bristow responded that it would not be a part of this project and cannot be required, since it is
not part of this application to replace other windows.
Kuenzli asked if the owner will be changing the canopy to resemble the original 2004 plan.
Bristow replied that it would not be changed. She said that some of the posts are deteriorated
at the bottom, so they will be replaced just to match what is there currently.
MOTION: Baker moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project at 8
Bella Vista Drive as presented in the staff report with the following condition: the
matched brick to be approved by staff and chair. Clore seconded the motion. The
716 North Dubuoue Street
Bristow stated that staff has been working with the owner of this property to clear up and make
sure that everything has been taken care of that was originally decided on as conditions for the
historic landmark designation, and this is almost done. She said there are a few things that are
unpainted and a few pieces of missing trim, but it is pretty close.
Bristow said the applicant will be doing a couple of different projects. She said the current
application is to put a sign with the Greek letters on the front of the house. Bristow said that a
sample is in the packet, showing that historically the Greek letters were on the house in this
same location. She stated that because of Iowa City code, there can only be one sign on the
building, so the Greek letters can only be on the building once.
Bristow said the applicant plans to put a decoration on the side of the building. She showed
where the Greek letters would be placed and where a decorative crest would be placed.
Bristow showed the mockup of the crest. She said there is a metal ship that has always been
on the chimney, and staff felt that aligning those might make it a little simpler and tie them
together a little bit more.
Bristow said the designs would be anchored into the mortar joints. She said that the applicant
will not be making holes in the stone, as that is one of the requirements. Bristow said one would
not want to see anything done that would cause permanent damage to the stone. She said that
the Secretary of the Interior Standards for Rehabilitation and general knowledge of masonry
care call for things to be mounted into the joint instead of the stone.
Krone introduced himself as the alumni advisor and house director for this property. He said
this is a different fraternity from the previous occupants.
Krone said that he is not proposing to put the letters on a rectangular piece as was done
historically. He said he does not intend to mount them onto the stone.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
August 11, 2016
Page 6 of 9
MOTION: Wagner moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project at
716 North Dubuque Street as presented in the staff report. Baker seconded the motion.
REPORTS ON CERTIFICATES ISSUED BY CHAIR AND STAFF
Certificate of No Material Effect - Chair and Staff Review
519 North Johnson Street
Bristow said this property is in the Goose Town/Horace Mann Conservation District. She said
this was a University partnership home. Bristow said that rotten materials will be repaired on
the deck, porch column bases, a little bit of the porch railing, and similar things.
125 North Gilbert Street.
Bristow said this house, in the Jefferson Street Historic District, is going to be reroofed with
asphalt shingles.
325 South Summit Street.
Bristow said this project involves rebuilding the porch floor. She said that staff urged the owner
to use Douglas fir instead of pine.
722 Oakland Avenue.
Bristow said that this project was stopped mid -roof, but then the owner reshingled the roof as
well as the roof of the neighboring house, which is owned by the same family. She said that it
was basically asphalt to asphalt.
728 Oakland Avenue.
See 722 Oakland Avenue.
623 College Street.
Bristow said that this project was basically to put the porch back on in the same size and shape.
She said the skirt will just be pretty much vertical slats to match a historical remnant found
under the front porch.
Bristow said that the railing, however, had been a square spindle and kind of plain top rail that
was clearly not original. She said there was a house on North Linn Street that had the same
brackets, and there were more and more details that were very similar between the two houses.
Bristow said she thought that the kind of cut out pieces sandwiched between the bottom rail and
under the top rail would be a good compromise. She said that something like that would be
used for the new railing.
Bristow said that the applicant is working on getting new columns turned but also will not be
throwing away the existing ones just in case.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
August 11, 2016
Page 7 of 9
Swaim stated that this is one of the houses that United Action for Youth was in before it was
moved. She said that Dottie Ray was incredibly helpful and supportive to UAY in terms of
fundraising and support in all forms. Swaim said that Ray finally said it was okay for UAY to
name the parlor in this house the Dottie Ray Parlor.
730 North Van Buren.
Bristow said this house is in the Brown Street Historic District and also involves the reshingling
of a roof.
Minor Review - Staff Review.
659 South Governor Street.
Bristow stated that this is a non-contributing house at the very end of the Governor -Lucas Street
Conservation District. She said the owner is putting two egress windows in the second floor on
the side that faces the railroad tracks. Bristow said there will be muntin bars to make these look
like double hung windows, even though they will be casement windows for egress.
UPDATE ON POTENTIAL LANDMARK DESIGNATIONS:
Swaim said that this work is continuing.
CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES FOR JULY 14,2016:
Bristow said that one change was noted, in that the minutes referred to Kuenzli saying
something about the solar panels. She said that was actually DeGraw.
MOTION: Wagner moved to approve the minutes of the Historic Preservation Commission's
July 14, 2016 meeting, as amended. Baker seconded the motion. The motion carried on a
vote of 6-0 (Aoran. DeGraw, Litton, Michaud, and Sandell absent).
COMMISSION INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION
Builta distributed notes regarding the Fisk Reception. He said that a reception will be held at
the Iowa City Airport from 5:30 to 7:30 on September 29. Builta said there will be a slide show
of the homes that Henry Fisk helped design. He said that the Iowa City Airport location will hold
40 people, and the reception will be open to the public. Builta added that there will be a press
release and an article in the Press -Citizen. He asked anyone with funding ideas to let him
know.
Builta said there will be food and a few speakers, including a partner of Henry Risk's, Roland
Wehner. Builta asked if anyone from the Historic Preservation Commission or Friends of
Historic Preservation would like to speak. Miklo suggested asking Jan Nash, an historian who
did some research on the airport. He said he would contact Nash and include Builta on the e-
mail.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
August 11, 2016
Page 8 of 9
Baker said a suggestion for fundraising would be to get someone to sponsor the event, perhaps
an architectural firm or a business that is in one of the Fisk buildings. Swaim thanked Builta for
his work on this.
Distribution of new by-laws.
Swaim said this is self-explanatory. She said the Commission voted on this at a previous
meeting.
CLG Grant Update.
Swaim said this involves applying for a grant to hire a consultant to update the downtown
surrey. She said that Baker has volunteered to put that together and has a draft started.
Bristow said that an estimate from Marlys Svendsen was received. Bristow said that a
resolution is also on the City Council agenda regarding applying for the grant. She said that
matching funds in the amount of $8,000 would be required from the City.
Swaim said this is an important project, but it takes hours of work on the part of staff, the
consultant, and the Commission, particularly Baker, who has taken the lead on this.
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting was adjourned at 6:11 p.m.
Minutes submitted by Anne Schulte
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ATTENDANCE RECORD
2015-2016
NAME
TERM
EXP.
9/10
10/8
11/12
12/10
1/14
2/11
2/25
3/12
4/14
5/12
6/9
7/14
8/11
AGRAN, THOMAS
3129/17
0/E
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
O/E
BAKER, ESTHER
3129/18
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
BUILTA, ZACH
3129/19
—
—
—
—
—
--
--
---
X
X
X
X
X
CLORE, GOSIA
3129/17
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
DEGRAW, SHARON
3129/19
---
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
X
X
X
X
O/E
KUENZLI, CECILE
3/29/19
—
—
—
—
—
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
LITTON, ANDREW
3129/17
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
O/E
MICHAUD, PAM
3129/18
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
SANDELL, BEN
3/29117
X
X
X
0/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
SWAIM, GINALIE
3/29/18
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
WAGNER, FRANK
3/29/18
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
— = Not a Member
"ice
4b(3)
MINUTES APPROVED
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
SEPTEMBER 8, 2016
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Thomas Agran, Esther Baker, Kevin Boyd, Zach Builta, Gosia
Clore, Sharon DeGraw, Cecile Kuenzli, Andrew Litton, Pam
Michaud, Ginalie Swaim, Frank Wagner
MEMBERS ABSENT:
STAFF PRESENT:
OTHERS PRESENT:
None
Jessica Bristow, Bob Miklo
Alicia Trimble
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (become effective only after separate Council action)
CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Swaim called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Swaim stated that Ben Sandell moved to Cedar Rapids and is therefore now unable to serve on
the Commission. She introduced Kevin Boyd as the new at -large representative.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA:
There was none.
NATIONAL REGISTER NOMINATION - BYFIELD HOUSE, 715 WEST PARK ROAD:
Bristow said that the Byfield House has been nominated to the National Register. She said that
as a Certified Local Government, the Commission is charged with lending its opinion to the
State committee that will review the nomination before it goes to the federal nomination board.
Bristow said the basic need is to determine whether or not it meets the criterion to be on the
National Register. She said that in this case, it is based on architecture. Bristow showed slides
of the property.
Bristow said the house is located at the corner of Park Road and Lexington Street. She said it
is part of the survey area and part of the original first wave of construction in the Manville
Heights Neighborhood, in the Manville Addition, which began in 1909. Bristow said that the
house was probably built about 1917, according to Marlys Svendsen.
Bristow said the property was outside of one of the areas that was identified for the Manville
Heights Historic District, but it was marked as one of the important landmarks outside of the
proposed district.
Bristow showed the southwest elevation. She said the house is a blend of Tudor and Craftsman
style of architecture. Bristow said it was designed by an engineer - Stuart Hobb Simms. She
said it was built during a period of time when many University engineers were employed on a
free-lance basis to design bridges and buildings and infrastructure around Iowa City.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
September 8, 2016
Page 2 of 7
Bristow stated that the current owner has done some research on the house and found a
pattern book from 1912 that had an English house in it that matches this house fairly well. She
said it shows the source of the style.
Bristow showed a slide of the northwest corner of the house, with a two-story porch that is only
accessible from the inside. She said that some of the photographs in the packet show the
craftsman details on the inside. Bristow stated that the Tudor details are obvious because of
the brick; the use of stucco; the board detailing on the porch; the large, decorative chimney; and
the tile roof. She said that craftsman details have more to do with the actual fabrication of the
details of this house, particularly the interior.
Bristow showed photographs of the English house that was the model for his house. Bristow
said there are similarities with the door and the brick with stucco above.
Bristow said the house is pretty much intact as it was originally built. She said there has been a
garage addition and an L-shaped addition connecting the garage to the main house. Bristow
said there have been slight changes in the second story floor plan. She said that the first story
floor plan changed a little bit when the addition was put on in that the stucco wall on the low part
used to be a single -car garage but is now the kitchen.
Bristow referred to interior details in the main living room on the first floor off the porch. She
pointed out the leaded casement windows. Bristow said that all of the original hardware is here,
as is the original internal vacuum system. She showed one of the fireplaces.
Bristow said the house is remarkable because of its intact condition, the fact that it is part of this
original Manville Heights building, and because of the blend of Tudor and craftsman in the
English cottage style.
Swaim said this is a good reminder that there are a lot of really important houses on the west
side of the river - grand houses like this one and also more modest houses that are equally
important. She said it is good to keep these buildings researched and protected.
Michaud asked if this would restrict the owner from adding any buildings within view of the street
or sidewalk. Bristow said that the National Register listing would not impose any restrictions,
and this won't actually fall under the Commission for regulatory purposes unless it becomes a
local landmark. Miklo said staff may follow up with the owner about having this nominated as a
local landmark in the future.
Bristow said the State would look to any comments that the Commission would like to add to the
nomination form.
MOTION: Wagner moved to approve National Historic Register Landmark designation for
the house at 715 West Park Road, based on criterion C for architecture. Clore seconded
the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 11-0.
CERTIFICATES OF APPROPRIATENESS:
821 North Johnson Street. Bristow said this property is a non-contributing structure close to the
end of Johnson Street. She said it was probably built in the 1950s. Bristow said the house is
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
September 8, 2016
Page 3 of 7
brick. She said that the owners want to put an egress window for the basement on the back of
the wing of the house.
Bristow said the house currently has vinyl windows, and the contractor is proposing a vinyl
window. She said that most of the windows on this property are casement windows. Bristow
said that because the house is not contributing, staff feels that going ahead with a casement
window without divided lights to make it look like a double hung window might be most
appropriate.
Bristow said she has talked to the applicant about a window well not being a typical, metal
curved piece of window well but something that actually matches the foundation. She said that
in this case, since one cannot see any foundation beyond brick, she has worked with the
contractor to do a concrete block window well that will be topped in row lock brick, basically like
the window sill that one sees where they all stand up on the thin edge. Bristow said that will go
all the way around the top of the window well.
Bristow said the contractor submitted a drawing that she distributed to the Commission. She
said it shows that he agrees to put on the brick cap so that there does not have to be anything
special with that, and he agrees to use a casement window. Bristow said staff agrees with that
and with the vinyl window for this case because of the non-historic, non-contributing house.
Wagner said that the brick cap the way it is drawn does not look like the brick cap in the
photograph. Bristow replied that she told the contractor to specifically use row lock brick and
will make sure that he knows that.
Bristow said staff had just received window product information earlier in the day that is
proposed to match the other windows on the property.
MOTION: Baker moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project at 821
North Johnson Street, as presented in the application, with the following conditions: 1)
window product information to be approved by staff and chair and 2) the brick match on
the top of the window well to be confirmed by staff. Litton seconded the motion. The
motion carried on a vote of 11-0.
422 Brown Street. Swaim said that the applicant is a Commission member, Andy Litton. Bristow
said that after the agenda packet had been prepared, the application has changed to no longer
include replacement of the internal gutters, so at this point there is not anything that needs to be
voted on.
Bristow said this property is part of Black's Gaslight Village and is the main front house, which
has had many additions. She said the roofline has a nice gentle curve to it, and there are some
remaining internal gutters. Bristow said there are obviously some K-style gutters that were put
on. She showed where there are some internal gutters and a downspout coming down.
Bristow said there is a lot of original woodwork along the windows. She said the original
application was to replace the roof shingles, which does not need to be brought to the
Commission, but included removal of the internal gutters. Bristow said that at this point, based
on the condition of the house and the gutters, staff recommended going ahead and removing
them, partly because perhaps some of the PVC downspout and other things can be remedied.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
September 8, 2016
Page 4 of 7
Bristow said that since then, staff has learned that the applicant is actually going to leave the
internal gutters and have Mark Anderson coat the gutters with the Acrymax coating that staff is
suggesting for people with metal roofs. Bristow said this will probably work fine here.
Bristow said staffs only other recommendations had been, instead of replacing the aluminum
soffit material if needed, to try to go towards bead board. She said it was used in some of the
dormer overhangs. Bristow said staff recommends maintaining any wood trim that needs
replacement and putting on downspouts that would be appropriate. She said staff will work with
the applicant to find something that is not PVC.
Bristow stated that at this point there does not need to be a vote of the Commission, because
the roof does not need to come before the Commission, and the internal gutters will not be
removed.
REPORTS ON CERTIFICATES ISSUED BY CHAIR AND STAFF:
Certificate of No Material Effect - Chair and Staff Review.
530 East Davenport Street. Bristow said this house is in the Goosetown/Horace Mann
Conservation District. She said the stucco is in poor condition. She said the application it to
repair and replace sections as needed. Bristow said the stucco is falling off in many places on
the house.
415 Brown Street. Bristow said this is a reroofing project. She said the gutters are not in bad
shape and will be repaired. Bristow said that right now the house has a kind of three -tab
shingle, and it will be replaced with a more appropriate architectural shingle.
435 and 437 South Summit Street. Bristow said this house has quite a few flat roof areas,
including the front porch, a back bump out area, and an area on the top of the roof. She said
that all of that will be replaced with a regular, white rubber roof membrane.
1030 College Street. Bristow said this house has a standing seam metal roof. She said the
owners plan to replace some of the shingled areas of the roof with new shingles. Bristow said
those areas include the front porch, the little bay area, and all of the area in the back.
Bristow said there is a flat roof section where there may have originally been a door. She said
that will probably be a roofing membrane. Bristow said this will have shingles that looks like
weathered, wood shake shingles.
817 Bowery. Bristow said the property was having a porch reconstruction that was found in mid -
process. Bristow said the flooring has been replaced, and the floor structure has been replaced.
She added that on the back porch, the owner used bead board and on the side of the shed roof
for the porch and on the porch ceiling as well.
Bristow said that in the course of the work, the owner replaced one single posts. She said that
because it was already done and the owner did not actually have to replace any of the other
posts, staff is not going back to have the owner replace them all with what would really be
appropriate, which would be something much more substantial.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
September 8, 2016
Page 5 of 7
830 Bowery. Bristow said the owner of this property wanted to replace the double hung, original
windows in the bays. She said the windows have unfinished aluminum storm windows over
them, but in some cases the storm windows are missing or broken or don't operate. Bristow
said the actual windows are in good condition, so the owner will be replacing the storm windows
and probably putting new putty in, glazing, and painting the original windows instead of
replacing them.
Minor Review - Staff Review.
506 South Governor Street. Bristow said the garage on this house in the Governor -Lucas Street
Conservation District had masonite siding that was deteriorating. She said that staff worked
with the owners to put on a siding that matches the house. Bristow showed what the project
looks like in process.
CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES FOR AUGUST 11, 2016:
MOTION: Kuenzli moved to approve the minutes of the Historic Preservation
Commission's August 11, 2016 meeting, as written. Baker seconded the motion. The
motion carried on a vote of 11-0.
COMMISSION INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION
Swaim said that the Fisk Reception, which Builta is volunteering on, will be held September 29
She added that the Commission is co -sponsoring the reception with Friends of Historic
Preservation and the Johnson County Historic Preservation Commission.
Swaim said this fulfills one of the Commission's goals in terms of educating the public and
celebrating local historic housing and building stock. Miklo added that Fisk was one of the
designers of the City Hall building as well as the Airport terminal where the reception will take
place.
Swaim said that the Iowa Preservation Summit is next week, and she, Bristow, DeGraw, and
Alicia Trimble will be attending.
Swaim said it is not too early for Commission members to take note of properties that might be
considered for awards at the January awards ceremony.
Regarding the house move to College Street, Miklo said that not a lot was occurring over the
summer, because the contractor who had done the foundation work had to finish the grading,
which took some time. He said that now that it is done, the front porch is starting to appear.
Bristow added that the front porch structure was started this past week by Wagner. Bristow said
that the back porch structure has been started, and they are looking for porch floor to salvage
and use on these porches.
Bristow said that some of the next steps involve vacuuming out all of the soot, having some
plumbing work done, reconfiguring some things on the second floor, and determining what to do
with the fireplace and chimney. She said it is getting to the point where volunteers may be
needed. Bristow said some educational workshops will be held, based on the work being done.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
September 8, 2016
Page 6 of 7
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting was adjourned at 6:00 p.m.
Minutes submitted by Anne Schulte
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2016-2017
NAME
TERM
EXP.
10/8
11/12
12110
1/14
2/11
2/25
3/12
4/14
5/12
6/9
7/14
8/11
918
AGRAN, THOMAS
3/29/17
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
BAKER, ESTHER
329/18
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
BOYD, KEVIN
3/29/17
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
X
BUILTA, ZACH
329/19
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
X
X
X
X
X
X
CLORE, GOSIA
3/29/17
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
DEGRAW, SHARON
3/29/19
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
KUENZLI, CECILE
3/29/19
--
--
---
---
—
—
—
0/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
LITTON, ANDREW
3129/17
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
0/E
X
MICHAUD, PAM
3129/18
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
SANDELL, BEN
3129/17
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
—
—
SWAIM, GINALIE
3129/18
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
WAGNER, FRANK
3/29/18
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
KEY: X = Present
0 = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
-- = Nota Member
=-
4b(4)
i0ft-* IOWA CITY
fs PUBLIC LIBRARY
123 S. Linn St. •Iowa City, IA 52240
v 3wn<Nq•i.x 31Y356311p•i.. 319356HV1 •www.Kga9
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Minutes of the Regular Meeting FINAL APPROVED
September 22. 2016
Members Present: Diane Baker, Janet Freeman, Thomas Martin, Meredith Rich -Chappell, Jay Semel,
Monique Washington (in at 5:03 pm.).
Members Absent: John Beasley, Adam Ingersoll, Robin Paetzold.
Staff Present: Maeve Clark, Susan Craig, Kara Logsden, Anne Mangano, Patty McCarthy, Elyse Miller,
Brent Palmer, Angela Pilkington.
Guests Present: None.
Call Meeting to Order. President Semel called the meeting to order at 5:01 p.m.
Public Discussion. None.
Approval of Minutes.
The minutes of the August 25, 2016 Library Board of Trustees meeting were reviewed. A motion to
approve the Minutes was made by Freeman and seconded by Rich -Chappell. Motion carried 5/0.
Approval of Minutes of Special Meeting.
The minutes of the September 7, 2016 Special Meeting of the Library Board of Trustees were reviewed.
A motion to approve the minutes was made by Baker and seconded by Martin. Motion carried 5/0.
Unfinished Business.
Bookmobile Update. The City has issued the purchase order and construction has begun. There was a
meeting with staff last week to talk about scheduling for the bookmobile. We hope to have the vehicle
on 4/17. Three choices for the bookmobile's exterior design will be brought to the October Board
meeting.
Bookmobile consulting contract. Craig believes the money for the consultant would be well spent. He
will travel to the manufacturing site for inspect to make sure everything meets our RFP specifications.
Martin asked if there is any liability on the part of the consultant. Logsden said a certain amount of
money is held back during the process for any outstanding issues. The consultant would step in if there
are any issues between ICPL and the vendor. Craig believes our consultant is professional and knows
what he is doing. His qualifications and performance are good. Martin asked about the extra money
mentioned in the proposal. Logsden said this is included in case the consultant has to travel to
t
Colorado a second time. A motion to approve the consulting contract was made by Martin, seconded
by Freeman. Motion carried 6/0.
New Business.
FY18 Budget Request. Craig worked with staff to use the City's projected numbers in all areas except for
personnel, which are not available yet, however, Craig added additional funding for temporary staff for
a full year of the new hourly pay plan that goes into effect January, 2017. Craig adjusted some of the
figures provided by the City, for example, gas and electric costs. There is $98,000 in capital expenditures
in the operating budget, spread out over building improvements, IT expenses and furniture for the work
we hope to do in the Children's Room and Computer Lab. Craig asked the architect of our building for a
ballpark figure to re -carpet the building, resulting in a significant project. Craig asked for $200,000 for
three years to replace the worst carpeting in the building. More than 10 million people will have walked
on the carpet by the time we start to re -carpet. Semel commented that we need to request what we
need. Baker said that the building isn't new anymore and the City needs to know that maintenance will
become ongoing. Martin added that this is an important City building that needs to be maintained. A
motion to approve the budget request as submitted was made by Baker and seconded by Washington.
Motion carried 6/0.
ICN Service. Craig believes going forward with the suggested changes will create a more flexible space
and the City Building Inspector previously said the capacity of the room could be doubled if there was
no fixed furniture in the room. The fixed furniture will be removed to allow for more options to use the
space. Urbandale and one other location are the only two other ICN locations left in public libraries in
Iowa. Palmer will ask the City if it has any interest in keeping the ICN connection as it is reliable, but the
room itself will no longer have the ICN equipment in it. The Board agreed to the discontinue offering
ICN in the room beginning March 1, 2017.
Staff Reports.
Director's Report. The person who sent the email about security cameras to the Board also sent an
email to City Council members. The City Attorney will respond to her communication. Craig will meet
with her next week. Craig believes the security cameras are an important safety feature at the library.
The Iowa City Book Festival is coming up October 4 through 9. Craig encouraged Board members to
attend any events that look interesting. ICPL is getting positive press from our special Saturday access
hours for children with autism. Pilkington received requests from American Libraries Direct, a phone call
from the Director of the Charlotte -Mecklenburg library in North Carolina, the American Library
Association for an interview for an upcoming book, from Library Journal to do an article, and from Web
Junction, an OCLC online education service. 62 people and two dogs attended the program. North
Liberty will participate in this programming every other month with us.
Departmental Reports:
Adult Services. Next Tuesday is the last event at ICPL in conjunction with the Shakespeare Folio exhibit,
Hamlet's Dreams, a book discussion about the copy of the Alexander edition of the Complete Works of
Shakespeare that was secretly circulated, annotated, and signed by a group of political prisoners at
Robben Island in the 1970s. Tonight, the library is showing Looking for Richard, with Al Pacino. Three
Cyclo -cross World Cup informational events will take place at ICPL. The founder of Jingle Cyclo -cross
spoke at ICPL on Tuesday night. UI Professor Steve McGuire discussed fabrication and bike design last
week. Programs were taped so if you were unable to attend, you will still be able to see them. The route
2
is on the Johnson County Fairgrounds, Craig said in response to a question by Semel. Baker said the
Cyclo -cross is fabulous.
Community & Access Services. No comments.
Business Office. No comments.
Facilities Services. No comments.
Development Office. McCarthy talked about the Giving Guide, published by the Corridor Business
Journal.
Spotlight on the Collection. No comments.
Miscellaneous. Craig encouraged members to go to a Lunch and Learn.
President's Report. No report.
Announcements from Members. Martin said Rock and Read has 54 registered readers, up significantly
from last year after some good publicity.
Committee Reports.
Foundation Members. The first meeting was held and members are getting to know each other. The
FY2017 Memorandum of Understanding between the Friends Foundation Board of Directors and the
Iowa City Public Library Board of Trustees was approved and is included in the packet. Semel signed on
behalf of the Library Board of Trustees.
Communications. Email from Kellsie Pepponi.
Disbursements.
The MasterCard expenditures for August, 2016 were reviewed. A motion to approve the disbursements
for August, 2016 was made by Martin and seconded by Washington. Motion carried 6/0.
Set Agenda Order for October Meeting.
Internet Use policy.
lst quarter statistics.
Bookmobile update.
Adjournment. A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Rich -Chappell and seconded by
Freeman. Motion carried 6/0. President Semel closed the meeting at 5:48 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Elyse Miller
Board or Commission: ICPL Board of Trustees
ATTENDANCE RECORD
12 Month
KEY:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
MeetingDate
Name
Term Expiration
11/19/15
12/17/15
1/28/16
2/25/16
3/24/16
4/28/16
5/26/16
6/23/16
7/28/16
6/25/16
9/22/16
10/27/16
Diane Baker
6/30/19
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
O
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
John Beasley
6/30/21
X
X
X
O
O/E
O/E
O/E
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
Janet Freeman
6/30/19
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
Adam Ingersoll
6/30/21
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
Tom Martin
6/30/17
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Robin Paetzold
6/30/17
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
Meredith
Rich -Chappell
6/30/17
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Jay Semel
6/30/19
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
Monique
Washington
6/30/21
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
KEY:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
CITY OF IOWA CITY
MEMORANDUM
Date: November 4, 2016
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Bob Miklo, Planning & Zoning Commission
Re: Recommendations from Planning & Zoning Commission
At their October 20, 2016 meeting the Planning & Zoning Commission approved the October 6'"
minutes with the following recommendations to the City Council:
1. By a vote of 7-0 the Commission recommends approval of 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.
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.
Additional action (check one)
No further action needed
Board or Commission is requesting Council direction
_X_ Agenda item will be prepared by staff for Council action - Done
Ei
MINUTES APPROVED
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 14-513, 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.
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.
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
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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 14-5B, 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.
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 overtime 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 (CI -1) 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
(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.
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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