HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017-06-20 Bd Comm minutes3b(1)
MINUTES APPROVED
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
APRIL 13, 2017
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Thomas Agran, Esther Baker, Kevin Boyd, Gosia Clore, Sharon
DeGraw, Pam Michaud, Ginalie Swaim, Frank Wagner
MEMBERS ABSENT:
Zach Builta, Cecile Kuenzli, Andrew Litton
STAFF PRESENT:
Jessica Bristow, Bob Miklo
OTHERS PRESENT:
Kumi Morris, 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:
There was none.
NATIONAL REGISTER NOMINATION: JOHNSON COUNTY SAVINGS BANK 102 SOUTH
CLINTON (MIDWESTONE BANK).
Bristow showed the location of the bank on a map of downtown Iowa City. She stated that the
nomination includes the main, six -story tower built in 1913; the three-story building to the east of
that, which is on the 1882 Sanborn map; and the 1984 addition to the south of that.
Bristow said the nomination discusses the different sections of the bank and talks about it as if it
were a column: the base, the shaft, the capitol. She said it discusses the different treatment of
the exterior of the bank and how much of it has its original integrity.
Bristow showed some photographs of the building. She showed the north facade and the lion
heads right below the frieze. Bristow said those were on each side of the entries, which were
modified and closed in over a period of time, beginning in 1921.
Bristow showed a photograph of the three-story building. She said there was originally a three-
story building on the site occupied by Johnson County Bank. Bristow said the bank needed to
grow, so it then took down most of the corner, leaving the one single bay. She said the bank
plans always included the second and third floors of that three-story building as part of the floor
plan for the bank, so it was going to be continually occupied by the same space. Bristow said
the National Register nomination discusses that in more detail and what happened with the first
floor.
Bristow said that the stone seen on the base is a 1963 change, so it is a modern or more
simplified version of the stone pattern on the six -story tower of the bank. She said that when
the six -story tower was built, the facade of the three-story building was updated to have more of
a classical, revival feel, so it would fit more in the same language as the new bank building.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
April 13, 2017
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Bristow showed the connection between the six -story bank and the 1984 addition. She stated
that there was always kind of a storefront entry in the space. Bristow said that when the
addition was put on, the structure of the wall was changed a little to make the connection. She
pointed out that the connection is recessed to create a "hyphen" between the original building
and the addition as currently prescribed by the National Park Service.
Bristow said that the bank did a simplified version of the stone facade along the street level,
which ties it together. She said the facade is divided into three bays with six windows. Bristow
said that in the new addition, the same kind of pattern is continued.
Bristow showed an image of the interior, looking toward the corner, after the more recent
remodeling. She said it brought back a lot of the original plan of the bank. Bristow stated that
during the remodel some of the same column and ceiling details were brought back or exposed,
and the floors remained or were refinished. She said the goal was to return to a lot of what the
original bank had, which had been modified over time.
Bristow showed an image from just inside the bank, from the south addition looking north toward
Washington Street. She said there is a stair, and one of the old vaults was in the bump out.
Bristow said one goes up to the second floor from this stair, and then there is a stair tower from
the second floor to the sixth floor.
Bristow showed a photograph from the third floor looking down the hall from Clinton Street east
and into the third floor of that three-story building.
Bristow said the nomination also discussed this building as an investigation into how Iowa City
could handle having tenants in the upper floors. She said the bank was not originally going to
occupy all of the floors, and so the bank investigated whether or not it would be able to get
tenants. Bristow said it seems as though it was occupied throughout its history.
Bristow showed the fourth floor as one looks east. She said this is where there is no longer a
three-story building, so it is the end of the tower. Bristow mentioned the original flooring, stairs,
and railing. She said that most of the woodwork around the windows, doors, and transoms is
original. Bristow said there were a few places where things were opened a little bit in the recent
remodel and that the trim was then moved to areas where the woodwork was missing.
Bristow showed a view on the second floor looking south into the addition. She said it is where
the tower stairs start and go up to the sixth floor.
Bristow showed a view on the fifth floor looking south, over the top of the 1984 addition.
Bristow said one of the important things done during the remodel was to remove a fire sprinkler
stack running up and down the center core of the stair tower. She showed a view looking down
through the stair tower.
Bristow showed the sixth floor. She said there was a hidden skylight that was uncovered to
make it a workable skylight again.
Bristow showed a view looking east, toward the end of the building
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
April 13, 2017
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Bristow said staff went through this nomination. She said staff feels this is one of the premiere
downtown buildings, is one of the first "fireproof' structures, and is the first high-rise. Bristow
said the architectural integrity is really amazing in this building. She said the fact that the
cornice was removed and then put back during the remodel really adds to the historic character
of this. Bristow said it was replicated pretty well because of historic photographs.
Bristow said that putting this property on the National Register would really be a benefit to the
downtown.
Boyd said he thinks this can serve as a model for other downtown businesses. He said it is a
great opportunity to showcase people investing and can serve as a model for others.
Swaim said she learned a lot of interesting local history regarding the banks in Iowa City in the
1930s during difficult times, as well as information about the various tenants who were in the
community in the 1930s and 1940s.
MOTION: Boyd moved that the Commission recommend that the application be
approved for the National Register, under criterion C. Baker seconded the motion. The
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS
800 Brown Street, Happv Hollow Park
Bristow stated that Happy Hollow Park is in the far northeast corner of the Brown Street Historic
District. She said that the park structures are non-contributing.
Bristow said the park currently contains a couple of structures under one roof comprising
storage, restrooms, and shelter. She said the proposal is to remove the structure and in the
same general location of that structure, there are plans to build a separate shelter and restroom
with a smaller storage area in the back of it.
Bristow said that the City owns the park. She said that the Parks and Recreation Department
therefore went through some research of the Brown Street District and held some neighborhood
meetings about this. Bristow said that Parks and Recreation looked at architecture in the
district as well as the history. She said there was once a brickyard here, and nearby is a house
built by the brickyard owners that served as its office.
Bristow said the shelter facility would have a simple, standing seam metal roof. She said it
would be a simple park -like structure. Bristow said the general design idea for both of these
buildings is something in the Craftsman style, which would be more appropriate for a park
structure than other, more formal styles.
Bristow showed the columns with a limestone base. She said there would be an open structure
for the roof. Bristow said the beams would extend out but not beyond the roof covering. She
said it would be a simple, open structure.
Bristow said there are a couple of options for the restrooms. She said that at this point, they
would go with what works with the bidding. Bristow showed the base bid - the main proposal.
She said it is a simple limestone -based structure with some lap siding, some trim, and the
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
April 13, 2017
Page 4 of 10
standing seam metal roof. Bristow stated that there is an option to do an alternate version with
columns.
Bristow stated staff feels that maybe in a structure of this size, the columns would not be
necessary, because columns would indicate a really formal entry or a porch. She said,
however, that this is a park structure, and staff feels either option would be acceptable. Bristow
said that if the bids come in such that the columns would be affordable, staff would be fine with
using that design.
Agran said that, in terms of the porch, he feels that either option would be fine. He said that all
of the designs are so much better than the very first suggestions.
Agran said the one with the little porch on it is nice, and having a little bit of shelter in front of the
entrance makes it feel less like it is really adjacent to the elements. He said if that bid is
possible, the little restroom will exist for the next one hundred years, so he hopes that it is not
too much more expensive.
Agran said that when he moved to Iowa City, he had no idea why that park was there or why it
was shaped this peculiar way. He said there is a really fascinating story that is part of the
history of the neighborhood in terms of the brickyard. Agran said there are a few Craftsman
buildings here, but there are a lot of brick buildings here.
Agran said the limestone hearkens him more to WPA/CCC-era park structures, which is fine.
He said there are a few Craftsman properties around here. Agran said there maybe could be a
material change on the foundations, using brick instead of limestone.
Agran said the park is non-contributing, but that doesn't mean that the Commission cannot aim
to have these be more contributing. He asked if there is any way that these buildings can tell a
little more of the story of why this park is here. Miklo said he would not say that the park is non-
contributing, but the current structures are non-contributing.
Agran said the design would be fine but feels it is also an opportunity to tell a story. He said the
park should not feel so random. Agran said the park is there because the material was dumped
out into those houses and properties around it. He said that he would approve this like it is, but
perhaps in the bidding or design process, if there is another option that feels right, this could
utilize the material to tell that story.
Agran referred to the map and said that when one looks down Lucas Street, there is a sight line
in the neighborhood. He said there is a sight line to these buildings, to this park at the end of
the street. Agran said that right now, that sight line goes to a parking lot and then to the awful
building that is there right now, so it is great that it will be removed.
Agran said that when he looks at the proposal and thinks about how to make this park look
nicer, especially as related to what is seen from the neighborhood and how these buildings fit in
the neighborhood, he thinks the placement of these buildings makes them feel quite clunky. He
said the connections between them feel really disparate; they don't feel like a unified blueprint
there.
Agran said that in the old structure, even though it was not nice, it really looks in on the park.
He said the park is a vessel, and it is a vessel by its very creation by having taken out all that
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
April 13, 2017
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clay and everything. Agran said the shelter doesn't really look into the park, which he says is
kind of a strange orientation. He added that the restroom is also at this kind of oblique angle.
Agran said the sightline is then towards the restroom, which is the very first thing one sees from
the neighborhood. He said he finds that a little bit strange. Agran said the solution to him could
be to have the sidewalk be one, graceful, long arcing curve that really embraces the park. He
stated that it might only be tenuously related to the Commission's role, but the buildings will
exist for a long time, and he would like them to be as contributing as they can to the park and
really embrace the park.
Agran said that right now they just feel a little bit plonked down there in a way that doesn't seem
considered in terms of what that park is as a space in the neighborhood. He said he would vote
to approve, but those are his thoughts as related to the park and the park's role in the
neighborhood.
DeGraw asked Agran what his priority would be in terms of the plans. Agran replied that it
would be nice to see what the landscaping might be. He said that if the restroom was turned at
more of a 90 degree angle to that path, one would see more of the side of the building and not
the front, from the Lucas Street vantage point. Agran commented that mostly he thinks it is
strange that the buildings no longer look in on the activity of the park.
Swaim asked if the sidewalk in the plans is already there. Bristow said that with the demolition
of the structure, there would be a new sidewalk.
Boyd said his first thought when he saw the plans was why brick is not involved. He said it
seems like an obvious place to use some kind of brick in a structure that used to be in a
brickyard.
Agran said that if others on the Commission feel sympathetic to this, the Commission could vote
on the motion saying it is approved as is, while allowing also for an option in the material. He
said it would open that as some kind of option, if it is deemed desirable. Agran said he would
not want to see this sent back to square one.
DeGraw asked if it would be possible to use brick in an ornamental way, perhaps in the
sidewalks. Miklo said that Morris, who is managing the project for the City was available for
questions.
Morris said that initially, the Parks and Recreation Department looked at brick, since it made
sense for a facility in a former brickyard. She said that the first designs had brick in both the
restroom facility as well as the shelter.
Morris said there is about $150,000 budgeted for both structures on the site. She stated that
most of the restroom facilities in the City have been coming in around $90,000. Morris said the
budget is pretty tight for this.
Morris said they then went back to the drawing board and had the architects, who are looking
holistically around the neighborhood, look at prototypes that will be done at many of the park
shelters. She said that one of the things to be careful about when putting together restroom
projects or projects in neighborhood parks is the issue of equity. Morris stated that what is
invested into one neighborhood park should not completely override what is done in other
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
April 13, 2017
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neighborhood parks. She said it is something to be careful about when considering materials
and the investment.
Morris said that a number of things with the restroom project were discussed. She said that in
the second, third, or fourth iteration, when it was realized that using a complete brick structure
would be completely out of the budget and would prevent construction of the shelter, it was
toned down. Morris said they went to a partial limestone base with a split -face block with some
kind of brick trim added in. She said that when they started to play with the language of the
architecture, they realized that they were getting further and further away from what they were
seeing in the context of the historic neighborhood.
Morris said that what they ended up doing was going back to looking at houses and the
construction. She said they were seeing limestone bases and, in terms of what could fit within
the budget, Craftsman style, and that is how the plan was derived.
Regarding placement, Morris stated that they looked at a number of things. She said they
wanted to make sure there was enough of a distance between the shelter and the restroom.
Morris said that, because of the budget, they wanted to align as closely as possible the utilities
of the existing structure. She said that unlike many renovation projects, demolition will also be
part of the $150,000 budget. Morris said they found that if they could align as closely as
possible certain parts of the foundations and the existing utilities that more could be invested
into the actual structures.
Regarding another issue, Morris said that if one looks at the site where the shadow of the trees
is, there are some low elevations and a lot of ponding. She said they want to keep the park as
open as possible, but they are looking at natural landscaping to absorb some of the issues with
the landscape moisture and ponding on the site. Morris said that the way the sidewalk is set up
will allow for a fairly landscaped area in front of that as well. She said that is being worked on
by the Parks Department.
Boyd asked, outside of Commission members' roles, but as citizens, what the best way would
be to weigh in on this. Morris said that anyone can send her an e-mail or send one to Julie
Seydel-Johnson, the Director of the Parks Department. Miklo said that Bristow could forward on
any e-mails sent to her.
Swaim said that if the budget allowed for it, it would be nice to have a sign explaining who the
park is named after or information about the neighborhood. Morris added that they are trying to
find a way to fit brick into the design that makes sense aesthetically as well as historically.
MOTION: Agran moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project at 800
Brown Street, Happy Hollow Park, as presented in the application including either Option
A or Option B. Clore seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0 (Builta,
Kuenzli. and Litton absent).
REPORTS ON CERTIFICATES ISSUED BY CHAIR AND STAFF:
Certificate of No Material Effect - Chair and Staff Review.
523 Grant Street.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
April 13, 2017
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Bristow said the garage at this address had a combination of a few different pieces of siding
which are failing. She stated that it will be resided with wood to match the original siding profile.
228 Summit Street Apt. 4D.
Bristow said that one of the apartments on the top floor needed vents in the roof. She said this
was approved, and it was not going to damage anything nor would it be visible.
Minor Review - Staff Review.
610 Jefferson Street.
Bristow said this is a local landmark. She said that it has always had a very small entry deck on
the back. Bristow said that it was rebuilt without a permit, and the owner needed to change the
railing.
Bristow said that during discussions of how to make the railing work to meet the guidelines, the
owners came up with idea of enlarging the deck. She said it is still set in well beyond the sides
of the house and will now be a usable deck instead of just an extended stoop. Bristow said it
will be about 12 feet by 13 feet and will have a railing that meets the guidelines.
719 Ronalds Street.
Bristow said this house will become a rental property. She said that a railing was needed at the
stairs. Bristow said there was a railing in the garage, and the owners will re -use it if it fits the
current stair configuration. She said that if it does not fit, it will be the model for the new site
stairs.
332 Ellis.
Bristow stated that because this building is one of the City's historic fraternity buildings and is
eligible for the National Register, the Board of Adjustment put a condition for meeting the
historic preservation guidelines on its exterior rehabilitation. Bristow said staff worked with the
owners to make certain that what they plan do meets the guidelines.
Bristow said she has a list of things that are relevant. She said this rehabilitation should help
and greatly improve this property.
Bristow said there is currently a window where the front door will go. She said the window will
be removed, and an appropriate door will be installed in that location.
Bristow said the owners need to come up with an ADA accessible first floor. She said therefore
a ramp will be constructed to fit between the columns. Bristow said they will shorten the
pilasters that are the trim, just against the wall next to the door, so the ramp can go in and up to
the stoop, because it is a little bit raised. She said they are shortening the trim but not removing
all the trim.
Bristow said the owners are replacing all of the remaining exterior doors with fiberglass doors
that would all meet the guidelines.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
April 13, 2017
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Bristow said that in the front, there are below grade egress windows and window wells. She said
the owners are removing all of those and covering over the window wells along the front, so it
will be more like the original, probably concrete, running along the front.
Bristow said the owners are replacing all of the windows on the property. She said that when
she visited the property, there were only storm windows on the first and second floors. Bristow
said the building does have original windows on the third floor, but there are some that are
missing and other issues. She said staff worked with the owners to come up with details for
this.Bristow said that the top of the third floor window is an arched piece. She said the new
windows will have that as well.
Bristow stated that there is a stair tower on the north side that does not meet the guidelines.
She said the owners will be replacing the bottom third of it and will match what is there for that
part. Bristow added that if for some reason it is determined that the whole thing needs to be
replaced, then the railing will meet the guidelines.
Bristow said the dormer in the front has been altered so that it does not match all of the others.
She said the owners will be rebuilding it to match what was originally there.
Bristow said the owners will be adding some trim in the arched area above the first floor
windows. She said there was never glass there, and it was never an arched window but was
some kind of a wood -paneled area. Bristow said that now the owners will be doing an arched
trim and a little bit of a pattern, which staff found to be appropriate.
Bristow said the owners have some shutters and will be consistent with the use of shutters. She
said they will be replacing them if missing or removing them if they shouldn't be there.
Bristow said that there is original copper flashing in the vertical piece below every single window
in the third floor at the Mansard roof. She said the ones in the front have been painted white or
replaced with wood and then painted white. Bristow said the owners will either strip them if they
are copper, replace them if they are wood, put in new copper, or something along those lines to
make them match so that they are no longer white.
Bristow said the building has its original slate roof, and the owners have been instructed to
repair it because it appears to be in good condition. She said that was not part of their original
plan, because the company that owns the house is also involved with Brava tile and intended to
remove the roof and put on Brava tile. Bristow said the company will need to get approval
before the roof work is done.
Bristow stated that any deteriorated trim will be repaired and replaced with material that follows
the guidelines. She said that there are a few windows on the back that are currently removed.
Bristow said there will be a total of three windows on that back that will no longer be there. She
said the owners will either come up with a matching brick that will be approved or put in a
window like all of the others with black spandrel glass.
Bristow said she thinks the owners will do a good job of bringing this back to having some
historic character and helping save this area. She said the property is in the far east side of the
overall Manville Heights Neighborhood.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
April 13, 2017
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CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES FOR MARCH 9, 2017:
MOTION: Boyd moved to approve the minutes of the Historic Preservation Commission's
March 9, 2017 meeting, as written. Agran seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote
of 8-0 (Builta Kuenzli and Litton absent).
COMMISSION INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION:
Preservation Summit - Fort Dodge IA June 8-10, 2017.
Bristow said the Preservation Summit will be held from June 8-10, which has led to the
rescheduling of the June Historic Preservation Commission meeting. She asked any
Commission members who would like to attend the Summit to let her know.
Bristow said she would need to register anyone who is interested by May 11. Miklo said that
travel expense, meals, hotel, and registration would be paid by the City.
Copy of 2017 Annual Work Plan Report.
Bristow said this is a copy of the report that she sent to the City Council.
A3iii-Ti
Agran said he received confirmation that perhaps in the next month or so, all of the concrete
fagade extensions are coming down off the Jefferson Building, and maybe some of the original
transoms and everything will be restored. He said it is unclear what is underneath them. Agran
said that other downtown building owners may see how much improvement this makes and do it
to their own buildings. He said he hopes it all goes according to plan.
Trimble said that Friends of Historic Preservation has a couple of events coming up. She said
that the Craft Your Environment Craft Fair will be on April 23. Trimble said she is still taking
applications from vendors and added that it will be held at the East Side Recycling Center.
Trimble said on that the weekend of April 28 - 30, Friends of Historic Preservation is having a
garage sale to support the final push on the Houser -Metzger House. She said that it will be
held at the Houser -Metzger House on College Street.
Trimble said there will be another passive floor restoration class on May 6. She invited anyone
interested to attend. Trimble stated that the Parade of Historic Homes, which will be in Manville
Heights and River Heights, will be held on May 28.
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting was adjourned at 6:46 p.m
Minutes submitted by Anne Schulte
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2016-2017
NAME
TERM
EXP.
4114
5/12
619
7/14
8/11
9/8
10/13
11/10
12/8
1/12
2/9
3/9
4113
AGRAN, THOMAS
7/1117
O/E
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
BAKER, ESTHER
7/1/18
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
BOYD, KEVIN
7/1/17
—
—
—
—
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
BUILTA, ZACH
7/1/19
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
CLORE, GOSIA
7/1117
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
0/E
X
X
DEGRAW, SHARON
7/1/19
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
KUENZLI, CECILE
7/1/19
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
LITTON, ANDREW
7/1/17
X
O/E
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
0/E
MICHAUD, PAM
7/1/18
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
SWAIM, GINALIE
7/1/18
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
WAGNER, FRANK
7/1/18
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
KEY: X = Present
0 = Absent
0/E = AbsenttExcused
— = Not a Member
CITY O F IOWA C1TY
MEMORANDUM
Date: May 30, 2017
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Bob Miklo, Planning & Zoning Commission
Re: Recommendations from Planning & Zoning Commission
_V_T;TT
3b(2)
At their May 18, 2017 meeting the Planning & Zoning Commission approved the May 4 minutes
with the following recommendation to the City Council:
1. By a vote of 6-0 (Dyer recused) the Commission recommends approval of REZ17-00007
an application submitted by Iowa City Cohousing LLC for a rezoning of approximately
7.8 -acres to amend the preliminary OPD Plan to add three additional units to Prairie Hill,
a 36 -unit cohousing development located west of Miller Avenue, south of Benton Street.
2. By a vote of 7-0 the Commission recommends approval of SUB17-00004, an
application for a preliminary and final plat of Little Ash Subdivision, a 1 -lot, 21.48 -acre
residential subdivision located on the east side of Maier Avenue.
3. By a vote of 7-0 the Commission recommends the City forward a letter to the Johnson
County Board of Adjustment indicating that the City has no objection to the conditional
use permit.
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
MINUTES APPROVED
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
MAY 4, 2017 — 7:00 PM — FORMAL MEETING
E M M A J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Carolyn Dyer, Ann Freerks, Mike Hensch, Phoebe Martin, Max
Parsons, Mark Signs, Jodie Theobald
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Sara Hektoen, Bob Miklo
OTHERS PRESENT: Del Holland
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
By a vote of 6-0 (Dyer recused) the Commission recommends approval of REZ17-00007 an
application submitted by Iowa City Cohousing LLC for a rezoning of approximately 7.8 -acres to
amend the preliminary OPD Plan to add three additional units to Prairie Hill, a 36 -unit cohousing
development located west of Miller Avenue, south of Benton Street.
By a vote of 7-0 the Commission recommends approval of SUB17-00004, an application for a
preliminary and final plat of Little Ash Subdivision, a 1 -lot, 21.48 -acre residential subdivision
located on the east side of Maier Avenue.
By a vote of 7-0 the Commission recommends the City forward a letter to the Johnson County
Board of Adjustment indicating that the City has no objection to the conditional use permit.
CALL TO ORDER:
Freerks called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
REZONING ITEM REZ17-00007:
Discussion of an application submitted by Iowa City Cohousing LLC for a rezoning of
approximately 7.8 -acres to amend the preliminary OPD Plan to add three additional units to
Prairie Hill, a 36 -unit cohousing development located west of Miller Avenue, south of Benton
Street.
Dyer recused herself and left the room during this discussion as she is on the Board of the Iowa
City Cohousing LLC.
Miklo noted that the Commission should all be familiar with this property, it is located on the
west side of Miller Avenue on the south side of Benton Street. The surrounding properties for
the most part are zoned RS -8, and to the north is Benton Hill Park which is zoned Public and to
Planning and Zoning Commission
May 4, 2017 — Formal Meeting
Page 2 of 5
the south is zoned Community Commercial. Miklo explained that the planned development
overlay that was approved included a private drive/street to serve 33 cohousing units. The
proposal is to amend that plan to add one additional unit to the Common House (near the center
of the development) and add two units to what was originally a duplex by adding a second floor.
Miklo showed drawings of the previous proposal and then drawings of the new proposal. The
new proposal also includes some minor design changes to other aspects of the plan, for
example the townhouses will no longer be two stories, and they will be single floor units (but
basically the same footprint). The garages would be slightly larger (extended by two feet) and
there would be additional parking to accommodate the three additional units. In terms of density
Miklo noted that this does fall in the RS -8 density, it is just under five units per acre, which is
typical for RS -8 development.
Staff is recommending approval of the amendment to the plan to allow the three additional units
and design changes.
Freerks asked if there was room for street trees along Miller Avenue. Miklo stated that yes
there will be street trees along Miller Avenue.
Freerks opened the public hearing.
Del Holland , 1701 East Court Street, came forward representing the applicant to answer any
questions.
Freerks closed the public hearing.
Hensch moved to approve REZ17-00007 an application submitted by Iowa City
Cohousing LLC for a rezoning of approximately 7.8 -acres to amend the preliminary OPD
Plan to add three additional units to Prairie Hill, a 36 -unit cohousing development located
west of Miller Avenue, south of Benton Street.
Parsons seconded the motion.
Hektoen noted that this property is currently subject to a Conditional Zoning Agreement and
those same conditions will remain in place. Miklo confirmed those would continue and not
change.
Freerks noted this is an exciting project that she is eager to see and the changes make sense
A vote was taken and the motion carried 6-0.
DEVELOPMENT ITEM SUB17-00004:
Discussion of an application submitted by Brian and Laura Wolf for a preliminary and final plat of
Little Ash Subdivision, a 21.48 -acre, 1 -lot residential subdivision located on Maier Avenue SW in
Fringe Area C.
Miklo noted this property is located within the two-mile Fringe Area of Iowa City, but is well
outside of the growth area and is not likely to be annexed into the city. The agreement with the
County is the City is required to review and approve subdivisions within the two-mile Fringe
Planning and Zoning Commission
May 4, 2017 — Formal Meeting
Page 3 of 5
Area. The subdivision is creating one buildable lot off from a larger parcel of property.
Subdivisions outside of the growth area are required to adhere to the City Rural Design
Standards contained in the Fringe Area Agreement. These standards generally conform to the
County zoning and subdivision standards rather than typical City requirements for infrastructure
and lot design.
Staff recommends that SUB17-00004, an application for a preliminary and final plat of Little Ash
Subdivision, a 1 -lot, 21.48 -acre residential subdivision located on the east side of Maier Avenue
be approved.
Freerks opened the public discussion.
Seeing no one Freerks closed the public discussion.
Parsons moved to approve SUB17-00004, an application for a preliminary and final plat of
Little Ash Subdivision, a 1 -lot, 21.48 -acre residential subdivision located on the east side
of Maier Avenue.
Theobald seconded the motion.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0.
CONDITIONAL USE ITEM CU17-00001:
Discussion of an application submitted by Paula Boback to Johnson County for a conditional
use permit to allow for a private school on property located at 3520 Osage Street. This property
is located southwest of Iowa City in Fringe Area C of the Fringe Area Policy Agreement.
Miklo noted this is the neighboring property from the one just discussed and again is well
outside the City's growth area, although in the Fringe Area. The County's Zoning Ordinance
allows schools in residential areas by a Conditional Use Permit. The County ordinance also
requires that the City review the Conditional Use Permit within the Fringe Area. Miklo reiterated
that this is not an area that is likely to be annexed into the city. He added if this area were
annexed, the City also allows schools in residential neighborhoods by a special exception
(similar to the County's Conditional Use process).
Given the proposed use is not within the Growth Area and that the school use would not be
incompatible with residential future growth, staff recommends that the City forward a letter to the
Johnson County Board of Adjustment indicating that the City has no objection to the conditional
use permit.
Freerks opened the public hearing.
Seeing no one Freerks closed public hearing.
Signs moved that the City forward a letter to the Johnson County Board of Adjustment
indicating that the City has no objection to the conditional use permit.
Parsons seconded the motion.
Signs noted in an effort to be transparent that the applicant's spouse is his personal doctor.
Planning and Zoning Commission
May 4, 2017 — Formal Meeting
Page 4 of 5
Martin disclosed she one went camping with the applicants.
Dyer noted it is a wonderful school proposal.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7-0.
CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: APRIL 20. 2017
Hensch moved to approve the meeting minutes of April 20, 2017.
Theobald seconded the motion.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0.
PLANNING AND ZONING INFORMATION:
Miklo stated that the City is continuing to work with the consulting firm that is looking at the
possibility of Form -Based Codes for the Northside and South Districts. The firm will be back in
town next week and there will be a continuation of the workshops. On Wednesday the
workshop will discuss the Northside and that will be at Horace Mann School 6:00 pm to 8:00
pm. Then on Thursday (again from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm) at Alexander Elementary School to
discuss the South District. Miklo asked that if the Commissioners plan to attend to let him know.
Signs noted he will be attending the South District discussion on Thursday. Freerks will be at
the Northside workshop.
ADJOURNMENT:
Hensch moved to adjourn.
Parsons seconded.
A vote was taken and motion carried 7-0.
PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2016-2017
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
--- = Not a Member
6/2
7/7
7/21
8/4
9/1
10/6
10/20
11/17
12/1
12/15
1/19
2/2
3/2
3/16
4/6
(W.S.)
4/20
4/20
5/4
DYER, CAROLYN
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
FREERKS, ANN
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
HENSCH, MIKE
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
MARTIN, PHOEBE
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
PARSONS, MAX
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
SIGNS, MARK
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
THEOBALD, JODIE
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
--- = Not a Member
I ^•� CITY OF IOWA CITY
MEMORANDUM
Date: June 2, 2017
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Bob Miklo, Planning & Zoning Commission
Re: Recommendations from Planning & Zoning Commission
At their June 1, 2017 meeting the Planning & Zoning Commission approved the May 18 minutes
with the following recommendation to the City Council:
1. By a vote of 6-0 (Dyer absent) the Commission set a public hearing for June 1, 2017 on
an application for a Comprehensive Plan amendment item CPA17-00005.
2. By a vote of 6-0 (Dyer absent) the Commission recommends approval of REZ17-00005
a proposal to rezone approximately 0.6 acres of property at 513 S. Riverside Drive from
Community Commercial (CC -2) Zone to Riverfront Crossings -West Riverfront (RFC -WR)
Zone, subject to a conditional zoning agreement requiring dedication of land along the
Riverside Drive frontage to widen the pedestrian area within the public right-of-way to a
minimum of 20 feet measured between the inside of the street curb and the new front
property line, and closure of driveways consistent with the City's access management
standards. These conditions should be satisfied coincident with the City's street
improvement project or prior to issuance of a permit for any improvements to the subject
property, whichever occurs first.
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
MINUTES
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
MAY 18, 2017 — 7:00 PM — FORMAL MEETING
E M M A J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
APPROVED
MEMBERS PRESENT: Ann Freerks, Mike Hensch, Phoebe Martin, Max Parsons, Mark
Signs, Jodie Theobald
MEMBERS ABSENT: Carolyn Dyer
STAFF PRESENT: Sara Hektoen, Karen Howard
OTHERS PRESENT: Charles Graves
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
By a vote of 6-0 (Dyer absent) the Commission set a public hearing for June 1, 2017 on an
application for a Comprehensive Plan amendment item CPA17-00005.
By a vote of 6-0 (Dyer absent) the Commission recommends approval of REZ17-00005 a
proposal to rezone approximately 0.6 acres of property at 513 S. Riverside Drive from
Community Commercial (CC -2) Zone to Riverfront Crossings -West Riverfront (RFC -WR) Zone,
subject to a conditional zoning agreement requiring dedication of land along the Riverside Drive
frontage to widen the pedestrian area within the public right-of-way to a minimum of 20 feet
measured between the inside of the street curb and the new front property line, and closure of
driveways consistent with the City's access management standards. These conditions should
be satisfied coincident with the City's street improvement project or prior to issuance of a permit
for any improvements to the subject property, whichever occurs first.
CALL TO ORDER:
Freerks called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ITEM (CPA16-00005):
Consider a motion setting a public hearing for June 1, 2017 on an application for a
Comprehensive Plan amendment to amend the North District Plan for approximately 70 acres
west of Dubuque Street, south of Interstate 80, and north and east of Mission Point Road and
Mackinaw Drive, to modify the land use map, adopt a sensitive areas survey, and add certain
housing, transportation and design goals.
Howard reminded the Commission that a Comprehensive Plan Amendment needs a public
hearing so this item is just to set that public hearing.
Planning and Zoning Commission
May 18, 2017—Formal Meeting
Page 2 of 6
Theobald asked if a translator will be present at the meeting when this item is discussed.
Hektoen stated she believes the applicant is bringing a translator.
Hensch moved to set a public hearing for June 1, 2017 on an application for a
Comprehensive Plan amendment item CPA17-00005.
Parsons seconded the motion.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 6-0.
REZONING ITEM (REZ17-00005):
Discussion of an application submitted by 513 Riverside, LLC for a rezoning of approximately
.62 -acres from Community Commercial (CC -2) zone to Riverfront Crossings -West Riverfront
(RFC -WR) zone for property located at 513 S. Riverside Drive.
Howard presented the Staff report and stated this property is located at the corner of Riverside
Drive and Myrtle Avenue, which is at the very north edge of the Riverfront Crossings West
Riverfront Zone. The property to the north is owned by The University of Iowa and they have
not indicated their future use of the property. To the west are some high density multi -family
properties and the other properties surrounding the area are zoned Community Commercial
(CC -2). Howard explained that one of the goals of the Riverfront Crossings Plan for this area is
to improve conditions along Riverside Drive for pedestrians and to improve the aesthetics of the
corridor, so when an upzoning to Riverfront Crossings zoning is requested, the City has been
requesting additional property to widen the pedestrian area along street frontages. This
particular property has a poor frontage condition. There is no sidewalk, and very little room
between the travel lanes and the private property to even provide a safe sidewalk to support the
new residential and commercial uses allowed by the proposed rezoning. The current zoning of
Community Commercial (CC -2) is not compatible with the Riverfront Crossings Master Plan as it
allows low -scale commercial development, limited housing above the commercial, and a very
auto -oriented area. Therefore, with additional land to enhance the public area along the street
to make it safe for future residents and customers, the change to Riverfront Crossings Zoning is
the appropriate zoning for the area.
With regards to the compatibility with the neighborhood, rezoning this property will bring the
property closer to compliance with the future vision for the area. Howard stated the largest
issue for this property is to make sure any new development has the kind of pedestrian facilities
necessary to support it. Howard showed images from the Riverfront Crossings Streetscape
Master Plan that was adopted last year. Riverside Drive is a State highway, there is no on -
street parking, and it has higher speeds than a typical residential or commercial street in the
downtown area. It is currently a four -lane arterial street with only about 60 feet of street right-of-
way. The City is planning improvements to the corridor to construct a pedestrian tunnel through
the railroad embankment located to the south of the property, extend a new sidewalk north to
the intersection of Myrtle Avenue, and signalize the Myrtle/Riverside Drive intersection to
improve pedestrian, bicycle, and traffic circulation in the area. Howard stated that as properties
are rezoned along Riverside Drive, staff recommends requiring a dedication of land to improve
conditions for pedestrians and to ensure that the streetscape and frontage area improvements
required in the Riverfront Crossings form -based code can be achieved. The cross-section in the
South Riverside Drive Streetscape Master Plan calls for a minimum of 20 feet between the
street curb and the front property line. This pedestrian area would include a 6 -foot sidewalk, 8-
Planning and Zoning Commission
May 18, 2017 — Formal Meeting
Page 3 of 6
foot wide area for street trees, and 6 -foot wide area between the street curb and the trees for
snow storage and utilities.
The applicant has agreed to enter into a conditional zoning agreement to dedicate land along
the frontage of the subject property to create a right-of-way that achieves the minimum
requirements (the 20 feet) specified in the streetscape master plan and the improvements
necessary for signalization of the intersection and also to reduce the number and location of
driveways to be consistent with the City's access management standards. The applicant has
agreed to close the driveways closest to the intersection that don't meet current access
management standards. This should improve safety for pedestrian, bicyclists, and for drivers.
Howard explained that it may also be necessary to close the other driveway on Riverside Drive,
but depending on what the applicant chooses to do with the property (whether it is just
commercial or mixed-use), that a right -out only driveway might work. Howard explained that the
developer doesn't have a concept plan for the property at this time because the applicant is
unsure whether the project will be solely a commercial building or a mixed use building. Since
the form -based zoning standards in the Riverfront Crossings code will ensure that the building is
built in a manner consistent with the goals for the Riverfront Crossings Master Plan and there is
an imminent City project planned to improve conditions along Riverside Drive, In addition, the
developer is supportive and will participate in helping to achieve a safer and more pleasant
environment along the street to support future redevelopment. Therefore, staff is supportive of
the rezoning.
Staff recommends approval of REZ17-00005 a proposal to rezone approximately 0.6 acres of
property at 513 S. Riverside Drive from Community Commercial (CC -2) Zone to Riverfront
Crossings -West Riverfront (RFC -WR) Zone, subject to a conditional zoning agreement requiring
dedication of land along the Riverside Drive frontage to widen the pedestrian area within the
public right-of-way to a minimum of 20 feet measured between the street curb and the new front
property line, and closure of driveways consistent with the City's access management
standards. These conditions should be satisfied coincident with the City's street improvement
project or prior to issuance of a permit for any improvements to the subject property, whichever
occurs first.
Hensch asked if there was an anticipated date or year when the street improvement project will
be complete. Howard stated it is under design currently and is budgeted for 2018. The City is
currently negotiating with the railroad for the pedestrian underpass.
Freerks asked if negotiations are complete with the other property owners to the south closer to
the railroad tracks so that the sidewalk improvements can be completed. Howard is unsure if
what conversations have taken place so far. However both property owners were contacted by
the City during the design of the Streetscape Master Plan.
Hensch asked if this was as far north as the Riverfront Crossings Plan goes. Howard answered
yes as everything to the north is University property.
Signs stated he did have a conversation with the applicant several months ago when they first
bought the property as he was expressing an interest in possibly doing some affordable housing
there and Signs directed him to the appropriate staff to have those conversations.
Freerks opened the public hearing
Planning and Zoning Commission
May 18, 2017—Formal Meeting
Page 4 of 6
Charlie Graves (13 Woodcrest Lane NE) stated he just closed on the property about three
weeks ago. Kum & Go, the previous owner, was required to make sure it was a clean site as
part of the purchase agreement and the DNR just gave clearance. Graves has been in
conversations with the City and is aware of their planned improvements to the area and until he
knows exactly where his boundaries area and the setbacks required he cannot design a project.
They are imagining a commercial use or multi-use building for the property.
Martin asked if they are also purchasing 517 Riverside Drive or what the overall plan for the
area might be. Graves said there have been preliminary conversations with that property owner
but the owner doesn't wish to sell and the tenant of that property just signed a multi-year long-
term lease extension.
Martin asked then if the entrance/exit to his property then would be on Myrtle Avenue and
Graves confirmed that but said that they are exploring a right out only onto Riverside Drive as
well.
Parsons asked if the right-out only drive would directly abut the neighboring property or would a
buffer be maintained between the properties. Graves noted there are some Department of
Transportation requirements that a driveway be so many feet from a signal, so if there is a drive
they would try to have it as far from the intersection as possible. They would do their best to
maintain the buffer between properties.
Hektoen noted that Riverside Drive is a State Highway so any access points will have to be
approved by the Department of Transportation. Howard stated that additionally the City also
has access management requirements and this will all have to be reviewed once a development
plan is proposed.
Graves added the timing on this project is such that it takes them about six months to a year to
plan a project and get it designed. Therefore, it is imperative that they can get started so they
can work in parallel with the City doing the street improvements.
Freerks asked what the distance for building required would be from the RM-44 that is to the
west. Howard said the setback would be 10 feet from the adjacent property. Freerks asked if
there was any stepping required due to height. Howard stated that the stepping in the West
Riverfront Crossings is required only where a property abuts a single family zone.
Freerks noted her concern about not having a concept plan prior to approving this zoning
change, but acknowledged that approval of the rezoning at this time would be beneficial to
working together to achieve the necessary pedestrian improvements. Graves noted that to
draw up a concept plan and present something to investors they have to be sure the footprint
they are working with is correct, and in this case could not do so without knowing the zoning is
approved and what the setbacks required will be. Freerks understands that for this case, but
cautions that is not something the Commission will necessarily relax on in the future.
Freerks closed the public hearing.
Hensch moved to approve REZ17-00005 subject to the conditional zoning agreement as
outlined in the Staff Report.
Martin seconded the motion.
Planning and Zoning Commission
May 18, 2017—Formal Meeting
Page 5 of 6
Hensch noted he feels it is a great step up to go to a Form -Based Code in this area as the
current layout is extremely dangerous for pedestrians and vehicles. The applicant dedicating
the land for the improvements is much appreciated and needed.
Signs added that the lot has a steep hill behind it and the neighboring properties are much
higher so if a future building is taller on this site, it will not look out of place or be a hindrance.
Several others on the commission noted their agreement that the sloping site will help to
mitigate concern about a taller building on the site.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 6-0.
CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: MAY 4. 2017
Hensch moved to approve the meeting minutes of May 4, 2017.
Theobald seconded the motion.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 6-0
PLANNING AND ZONING INFORMATION:
None.
ADJOURNMENT:
Martin moved to adjourn.
Parsons seconded.
A vote was taken and motion carried 6-0.
PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2016-2017
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
--- = Not a Member
7/7
7/21
8/4
11/17
12/1
12/15
1/19
2/2
3/2
3/16
4/6
4/20
4/20
5/4
5/18
DYER,CAROLYN
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
FREERKS,ANN
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
HENSCH, MIKE
X
O/E
X
T10/6
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
MARTIN, PHOEBE
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
PARSONS,MAX
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
SIGNS, MARK
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
XTHEOBALD,
JODIE
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
XX
X
X
X
X
X
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
--- = Not a Member