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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017-08-01 Bd Comm minutes2b(1) MINUTES APPROVED BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT JUNE 14, 2017 EMMA J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL MEMBERS PRESENT: Gene Chrischilles, Connie Goeb, Becky Soglin, Tim Weitzel, Bryce Parker I11�4-&V-11 \1sommoolLi=7 STAFF PRESENT: Susan Dulek, Sarah Walz OTHERS PRESENT: None CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 5:15 PM. ROLL CALL: All present. CONSIDER THE MAY 12, 2017 MINUTES: Weitzel moved to approve the minutes of May 10, 2017 with minor edits as submitted by Soglin. Goeb seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the motion carried 5-0 SPECIAL EXCEPTION ITEM EXC17-00003: Discussion of an application submitted Mukunda Kantamneni to amend the conditions of a previously approved special exception to allow removal of a barrier/gate located in the Community Commercial (CC -2) zone at 1410 Waterfront Drive. Walz summarized the situation at the site showing the two sections of Waterfront Drive as they existed prior to 2016. She noted the location of the subject property and the gate that had been required to prevent cut -through traffic to and from Gilbert Street. Walz then showed a more recent aerial view in which the entire northwest section of Waterfront Drive had been vacated and removed, eliminating the intersection that had been at issue during the original special exceptions in 1997 and 1998. The aerial view provided a view of the new development of the site with a new access drive that lined up with the Hill Bank entrance drive on the west side of Gilbert. Walz explained that the northern portion of Waterfront Drive no longer existed and therefore the gate no longer served the purposed for which it had been required. The Board discussed the matter briefly and then Soglin opened the public hearing. Seeing no one present to speak on behalf of or against the special exception, Soglin closed the public hearing. Board of Adjustment June 14, 2017 Page 2 of 3 Weitzel made a motion to approve the amendment to the terms of EXC98-00029, to remove the condition requiring a physical barrier to prevent the property from becoming an access between the two portions of Waterfront Drive. Parker seconded the motion. Soglin asked whether findings were needed. Goeb noted that the redevelopment had made the gate obsolete based on the change to Waterfront Drive. A vote was taken and the motion carried 5-0. Soglin stated the motion declared approved, any person who wishes to appeal this decision to a court of record may do so within 30 days after this decision is filed with the City Clerk's Office. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT INFORMATION: Walz noted that she had received one application for the July meeting. Goeb indicated that she would not be in town for the July 12 meeting. Parker indicated that he too would be away. Walz said that she would let the applicant know that it was likely that only three board members would be present, thus requiring an unanimous decision. She said she would contact the board if it seemed appropriate to reschedule the meeting. ADJOURNMENT: Weitzel moved to adjourn this meeting. A vote was taken and the motion passed 5-0 Meeting adjourned at 5:25 PM. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT ATTENDANCE RECORD NAME TERM EXP. 7113 8110 9/14 9121 9130 10/12 11/9 12/14 1/11 4/12 5/10 6114 PARKER, BRYCE 111/2022 -- -- -- -- -- - -- -- X O/E X X GOEB, CONNIE 1/1/2020 X X X X O/E X X X X X X X CHRISCHILLES, T. GENE 1/1/2019 X X X X X X X X X X X X SOGLIN, BECKY 1/1/2018 X X X X X X X X X X X X WEITZEL, TIM 1/1/2021 X X X X X X X X X X X X KEY: X = Present 0 = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused — = Not a Member FINAL/APPROVED COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW BOARD MINUTES — May 9, 2017 2b(2) CALL TO ORDER: Vice Chair Orville Townsend called the meeting to order at 5:30 P.M. MEMBERS PRESENT: Monique Green, Donald King (electronically) MEMBERS ABSENT: Mazahir Salih, Joseph Treloar STAFF PRESENT: Kellie Fruehling STAFF ABSENT: Legal Counsel Pat Ford OTHERS PRESENT: Sargent Derek Frank of the ICPD RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL None CONSENT CALENDAR Motion by King, seconded by Green, to adopt the consent calendar as presented or amended. • Minutes of the meeting on 03/14/17 • Minutes of the meeting on 04/12/17 • ICPD GO#07-03 (ADM 09.1 Fiscal Management) • ICPD GO#00-01 (LEG -04.1 Search and Seizure) • ICPD GO#89-05 (OPS -01.1 Radio Communications Procedure) • ICPD GO#99-01 (OPS -02.1 Police Vehicle Pursuits) • ICPD GO#07-02 (OPS -21.1 Detainee Processing) • ICPD GO#99-04 (OPS -07.1 Canine Operations) • ICPD SOG#16-03 (Fire Prevention Plan) • ICPD SOG#01-17 (Missing Persons) Motion carried, 3/0, Salih and Treloar absent. NEW BUSINESS None. OLD BUSINESS Community Forum Discussion — Fruehling stated that the draft minutes from the community forum had a draft summary and the transcriptions attached for Board review before forwarding to Council. It was moved by King, seconded by Green to forward the draft summary to Council with no changes. Motion carried, 3/0, Salih and Treloar absent. PUBLIC DISCUSSION None. BOARD INFORMATION None. STAFF INFORMATION Fruehling noted she had included the Council approved revised by-laws in the meeting packet for member files. CPRB May 9, 2017 Page 2 TENTATIVE MEETING SCHEDULE and FUTURE AGENDAS (subject to change) •June 13, 2017, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm •July 11, 2017, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm •August 8, 2017, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm •September 12, 2017, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm ADJOURNMENT Motion for adjournment by Green, seconded by King. Motion carried, 3/0, Salih and Treloar absent. Meeting adjourned at 5:35 P.M. COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW BOARD ATTENDANCE RECORD YEAR 2016-2017 (Meeting Date) KEY: X = TERM 5/18 5/23 6/7 8/17 9/13 10/11 11/7 11/15 12/15 1/10 2/14 3/14 4/12 5/9 NAME EXP. Joseph 7/1/17 O/E X X X X X X X X X X X X O/E Treloar Mazahir 7/1/17 X O/E O/E X X O X O X X X O/E X O/E Salih Donald 7/1/19 X X X O/E X O/E O/E O/E O/E O/E O/E X X X King Monique 7/1/20 --- — X X X X X X X X X X X Green Orville 7/1/20 — — — X X X X X X X X X X X Townsend Melissa 9/1/16 X X X — -- --- --- --- — -- — — Jensen Royceann 9/1/16 X X O --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- Porter KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused NM = No meeting --- = Not a Member MINUTES CITY COUNCIL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE APRIL 5, 2017 EMMA HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL, 4:00 P.M. Members Present: Rockne Cole, Susan Mims, Jim Throgmorton Staff Present: Wendy Ford, Eleanor Dilkes, Geoff Fruin Others Present: RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: Cole moved to approve the minutes with the change noted. Throgmorton seconded the motion. The motion carried 3-0. CALL MEETING TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Mims at 4:04 P.M. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF MINUTES: EDC April 5, 2017 1 APPROVED 2b(3) Minutes from the March 23, 2017, meeting were reviewed. Throgmorton noted that on page 4 of the minutes, where it states, "...industrial projects must make improvements equivalent to eight LEED energy efficiency points," that he was instead referring to mixed-use developments in or near downtown. Cole moved to approve the minutes with the change noted. Throgmorton seconded the motion. The motion carried 3-0. Continue Discussion of TIF Policies: Mims stated that before they continue their discussion, she would like to do a couple of recaps from the last meeting, noting that Throgmorton's comments about the minutes addressed on one of these areas. One area of concern is ensuring clarification on the difference of expectations between residential mixed-use and industrial. She believes that this will be essential for staff as they begin crafting policy changes. She asked the other Members if they are in agreement about the differences they want to see between mixed-use and industrial, when it comes to energy efficiencies and LEED certification. Members agreed, with Throgmorton stating that he said something back in the fall about having a specific section of the TIF policy focused on the Downtown and Riverfront Crossings Districts. He believes these areas are where the controversy is. Continuing, Mims next addressed the eight energy efficiency points that had been suggested for all TIF applicants to achieve along with LEED Silver certification. She stated that she would like to restate her position on LEED certification, noting she is concerned about the policy being written in such a way that it will require LEED Silver certification. Mims believes that they could possibly back themselves into a corner with this requirement. She added that she would prefer they consider language such as 'highly desire' or'highly recommend,' LEED Silver certification, yet give developers the opportunity to discuss other options, should they exist. Mims would like to see some flexibility in this area, in order to take advantage of any opportunities that might EDC April 5, 2017 2 APPROVED come up. Throgmorton stated that he does not agree with this, that he believes they should require LEED Silver certification for any new construction projects seeking TIF. Cole agreed with Throgmorton, adding that he would be in favor of LEED Gold certification. Mims noted that Throgmorton seemed to agree that requiring building renovation projects to also be LEED Silver would not be appropriate, as she had suggested. Fruin stated that when they spoke with architects, one of the common phrases heard was 'projects that are suitable for LEED.' He noted that basically not all projects are suitable for LEED certification. He suggested the City retain some discretion on what is suitable for LEED. Next, Mims addressed the idea of providing upfront vs. rebates in exchange for LEED Gold certification. She stated that she is not interested in only Gold LEED certification being eligible, that the potential for upfront financial support needs to have more flexibility. Cole stated that he wanted to clarify his statement about LEED Gold, adding that just because a developer meets Gold, that would not automatically mean they receive upfront financial support. He spoke further to the expectations of developers and how the City might develop its TIF policies around these. Throgmorton stated that this is an interesting concept, but that he is not sure he would be persuaded to adopt such a policy. He believes the risks are too high to the City, and he referred to Dilkes' memo to the Committee. Dilkes then gave Members some background on TIF policies that the City has followed over the years, noting how the landscape of downtown development has changed over time. She warned against such a policy, stating that if the City were to offer upfront financial support for LEED Gold certification, they could then open themselves up to too many risky situations. Throgmorton agreed, and stated the idea of blending upfront financial support with rebates. Mims said that they can already do this with current policies. Cole stated that he still wants to have data on how much more unfeasible LEED Gold is as opposed to LEED Silver plus eight. Fruin responded, noting that this would be project -specific. Cole asked if there is an average in the difference, or a narrative type description of the differences. Fruin noted they don't track this information, but that staff could contact the U.S. Green Building Council to see if such data is available. He added that in the focus group with local architects, there was a definite change in the conversation when they went from talking about LEED Silver to LEED Gold. LEED Silver is seen as an attainable stretch for almost any project in a downtown setting, while LEED Gold is more dependent on the type of project. Mims stated that she believes they should stay with the current policy, that she is not interested in requiring LEED Gold for consideration of upfront TIF. She believes that in order to get any upfront help, there has to be highly compelling public benefit to the project. This would then give staff and developers some flexibility. Throgmorton added that he believes they would be sending a clear signal to the public about what the expectations are by requiring LEED Silver with six to eight efficiency points. Cole suggested they use 'encourage' instead of 'require' in terms of being able to get upfront support for LEED Gold. He stated that he believes there are other cities that require this and he asked if staff knew of any, other than Madison. Throgmorton stated that he has looked for good, clear detail about the linkage between TIF support and energy efficiency and that he has not been able to find any. Moving on to the fourth point, community engagement, Throgmorton said he thought this was too open ended and needed more detail. Members continued to discuss it, with Cole stating he would like to have a set of policies that people will be able to understand more clearly while giving staff the flexibility to get the growth that is desired. Continuing, Cole stated that he too would like to have some type of example so this point can be more clearly understood. Throgmorton stated that in thinking about this point, he sees racial equity as a possible example. He noted that a developer might use lower-income workers, including a mix of people with diverse backgrounds, in either the project itself or in the construction. Fruin gave an example where a manufacturing company might be looking to locate in Iowa City and was perhaps seeking TIF assistance. If they did not meet the job threshold that the City requires, for example, EDC April 5, 2017 3 APPROVED but they had partnered with the local labor community and Kirkwood to offer industrial arts space, this could be an acceptable trade off. Mims stated that she might be in favor of staff putting together an introductory paragraph about the value, but that they need to watch how they word this. Throgmorton stated that he likes Fruin's example of the negotiation for industrial arts space and that he agrees staff should craft some type of paragraph for this point. Regarding the fifth point, public improvements, Mims asked for specifics on this point. Fruin stated that it is always beneficial to leave the option open for using TIF assistance for public improvements. He added that staff is getting ready to bring some amendments to the urban renewal area plan to Council, and that point gives staff flexibility to pursue this avenue for funding select public improvements. Fruin stated that sometimes public improvements can help influence private economic development activities. As for the arts as it relates to TIF, Fruin said during the budget process there was some discussion when he suggested using TIF to help with the restoration of the Englert Theater, and the renovation and upkeep of the existing Film Scene space. Mims then voiced agreement regarding using TIF for certain public improvements to further economic development. Throgmorton stated that he is inclined to support this as well, but would like to see a draft statement policy on it. Cole then spoke to the controversy surrounding the use of TIF for municipal projects and asked why people would be against this. Mims responded that in some cases, TIF is used for public projects, while at the same time there is no growth going on in the community. Fruin added that the primary criticism has been that cities have been using TIF as a way to skirt referendums. Developer equity — Mims stated that the policy to date has been that the developer be required to have as much equity in the project as City incentives. Ford noted those numbers are determined in part after the developer has maximized the amount of debt they can attract to the project. Ford briefly noted how the gap that is determined in a project and how this is handled in a TIF request. Fruin noted borrowing costs and how these have been addressed in the gap assessment. Mims spoke briefly to discussions she has had with developers and what they have shared with her regarding their experience with the TIF process. Length of the TIF — Mims states that she believes the shorter the better. She added that they need to be flexible in this, as each project is different. Back to item number one in the staff memo, Mims suggested they hold off until another meeting, due to the time. Throgmorton stated that he was wondering if TIF supported projects would have to comply with the newly revised affordable housing location model. He added that he spoke to Fruin about this earlier and was told that they would. Members agreed Throgmorton could restate the points he would like to discuss at the next meeting. These points include: determine a clear, predictable policy on building heights; guidelines, whether the underlying zoning is sufficient or not — Throgmorton stated that he does not believe the underlying zoning to be sufficient. He believes that any project they support must be consistent with the overall vision for downtown preservation and development as articulated in the Downtown/Riverfront Crossings Master Plan. He noted there is specific language that he would refer that comes out of the Downtown Master Plan, and he read it to Members: According to the Downtown and Riverfront Crossings District Master Plan, "New development [in the downtown area] should follow a list of very basic rules that are consistent with the underlying character of downtown. The following guidelines were developed following a thorough analysis of the patterns and framework that make downtown special. These include: new development should be located on sites that do not contain historic buildings. Active uses such as ground EDC April 5, 2017 4 APPROVED floor retail and not blank walls should front onto the street frontages and the City Plaza. Upper floors should contain office, commercial, and residential uses. Buildings should be built to the property line. Corner locations should be reserved for taller buildings, creating a block structure with taller buildings on the corners and lower scale historic buildings between them. The taller buildings on the corners should have a lower base consistent with adjacent historic buildings to make them 'feel' contextual with the rest of downtown while also limiting the perceived height of towers. Throgmorton added that while the downtown plan does not have the force of law, it does have the force of discretion — such that it can be used as a policy tool. Members agreed that they will discuss these issues further at the next meeting. STAFF TIME: None. COMMITTEE TIME: None. OTHER BUSINESS: None. ADJOURNMENT: Throgmorton moved to adjourn the meeting at 5:01 P.M. Cole seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. EDC April 5, 2017 5 APPROVED Council Economic Development Committee ATTENDANCE RECORD 2016-2017 Key: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused TERM 2 a rn o N w a NAME EXP. a N o A N J w w � Rockne Cole 01/02/18 X X X X X X X X X Susan Mims 01/02/18 X X X X X X X X X Jim 01/02/18 X X X X X X X X X Throgmorton Key: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused EDC April 14, 2017 1 APPROVED MINUTES CITY COUNCIL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE 2b(4) APRIL 14, 2017 EMMA HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL, 11:00 A.M. Members Present: Rockne Cole, Susan Mims, Jim Throgmorton Staff Present: Wendy Ford, Simon Andrew, Geoff Fruin Others Present: Karyl Bohnsack, Home Builders Association; Kevin Monson, Neumann Monson Architects; Dave Zahradnik, Neumann Monson Architects; Nick Lindsley, Neumann Monson Architects; Chris Nicknish, Calacci Construction; Julia Marlowe, Iowa City Capital Partners; Mark Ginsberg, MC Ginsberg; Marc Moen, Moen Group; Pat Ford, Leff Law Firm; Kim Casko, Chamber of Commerce, Matt Adam, Simmons Perrine Law Firm. RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: Throgmorton moved to use the language 'substantial weight be given to projects that clearly follow the Downtown, Riverfront Crossings District Master Plan, including the map shown on page 106. However the Council will identify certain factors that will allow staff to deviate from those standards.' Cole seconded the motion. The motion carried 2-1, Mims in the negative. CALL MEETING TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Mims at 11:00 A.M. She then asked those present to introduce themselves and thanked everyone for attending today's meeting. Continue Discussion of TIF Policies: Mims briefly reviewed what they have gone over so far, citing Ford's memo dated March 10 as the outline for the discussion to date. She noted that at the last meeting the Committee ended ready to pick up discussion of item #1 — balancing building height and form with building economics. Mims began the discussion by recalling some of the points about economics in the March 10 memo. She noted that after the sixth or seventh story of a building, the building construction is required to be steel throughout, as opposed to wood. This is one of the major issues with building economics. Mims then asked Throgmorton to pick up the conversation where they left off, explaining his desire to require building height, as cited in the Comprehensive Plan as opposed to the Zoning Code, to any project in requesting City financial assistance downtown. Throgmorton stated that the question had to do with determining a clear, predictable policy on building height for TIF -supported projects. He noted that Ford presented three decision points for the Committee. Referring to Ford's memo, the first decision point noted -- is the height permitted by the underlying zoning code sufficient or is there another guideline the Council wishes to use. Throgmorton stated that he does not think the height permitted by the underlying zoning code is sufficient for projects the City choses to support. He believes any project they support must be consistent with the overall vision for downtown preservation and development, as articulated in the Downtown and Riverfront Crossings District Master Plan. Throgmorton then EDC April 14, 2017 2 APPROVED commented that with all due respect to those who are present at this meeting, there is still a large fraction of the community that is not present, giving the example of people who are advocates of historic preservation. Continuing, Throgmorton quoted several issues from the Comprehensive Plan that he believes are important to this discussion. First, new development in the downtown area should follow a list of very basic rules that are consistent with the existing character of downtown. The following guidelines were developed following a thorough analysis of the patterns and framework that make downtown special. These include — new development should be located on sites that do not contain historic buildings. Active uses such as ground floor retail and not blank walls should front onto the street frontages and the City Plaza. Upper floors should contain office, commercial, and residential uses. Buildings should be built to the property line. Corner locations should be reserved for taller buildings, creating a block structure with taller buildings on corners and lower -scale historic buildings between them. The taller buildings on the corners should have a lower base, consistent with adjacent historic buildings to make them feel contextual with the rest of downtown, while also limiting perceived height of towers. Mims asked that they first discuss the question of whether the zoning code is sufficient or if they are going to amend the TIF policy to say they won't consider TIF for non -corner CB -10 lots. She added that she would not support such an amendment. Mims continued, stating that she does not want to see them amend their policy to be so narrow in scope and that the Downtown & Riverfront Crossings Master Plan was created to be aspirational. She cited an aspiration noted in the Downtown & Riverfront Crossings Master Plan to build a parking ramp in the middle of the block of Washington between Clinton and Dubuque Streets. She posited it is too detailed for an aspirational document, suggesting the Downtown & Riverfront Crossings Master Plan may be overly detailed if it is indeed aspirational. Throgmorton stated that he believes that the aspirational nature of these plans is what people want to see happen in downtown, which is to develop and preserve, and to maintain historic character. He believes that if the City is to offer financial support, they need to do so in a manner that is consistent with the aspirations of the people of Iowa City, as expressed in the Downtown and Riverfront Crossings District Master Plan. Mims stated that she wanted to clarify one thing that Throgmorton said and asked if he said that no matter what site a project was on — corner or mid -block — with CB10 zoning, a project must still undergo the strict EDC and Council review to be considered for TIF and that would remain the same. He concurred. Regarding historic preservation, Fruin then stated that he wanted to clarify one issue, noting a document that governs the use of tax increment financing -- the Urban Renewal Area Plan. The Council has to designate the urban renewal area and then amend the plan any time a new project takes place. A 2001 amendment to the plan governs how the City considers historic structures if they would be part of a TIF request. Fruin read from the plan — "Plans and specifications for proposed exterior renovations to historic or architecturally significant structures must be submitted to the Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission for review and approval, prior to issuance of a building permit in order for the improvements to qualify for tax increment financing. New construction that requires the demolition of structures identified in the Urban Renewal Plan as historic and/or architecturally significant is not eligible for either tax increment financing or the exclusion of property taxation during construction." EDC April 14, 2017 3 APPROVED He added that the same rules would apply for tax abatement. Throgmorton noted that he would like to tie this to Ford's third decision point, regarding promotion of historic preservation and a reinvestment into existing building stock. He stated that he does not believe they should provide TIF support for any project that entails the demolition of any structure that has been determined to be eligible for designation as a local historic landmark. Fruin stated that this has been the policy since the 2001 amendment. Mims then asked Cole if he had any comments. Cole wanted to revisit the upfront support versus TIF rebate support, noting that the current policy shows the City's preference for TIF rebates. He wanted to ensure there is flexibility built into the policy so that if certain conditions are met, Council has the discretion to grant upfront financial support. Cole stated that he would like to see the term "substantial weight" used in the policy when referring the to importance of compliance with the Downtown & Riverfront Crossings Master Plan vs. the Zoning code, but to not outright require it. He suggested they gather more public input early on for such projects to get a read on the public's approval. Mims responded this does not give developers much clarity, something the Committee was hoping to do with this policy. She stated she thinks this will not improve policy terms of giving any more assurance for developers as to the desires of the City Council. Bringing a project forward is expensive and developers won't want to gamble on presenting a taller building project. Throgmorton stated that taller buildings (clarified as anything taller than what exists currently) is not necessarily his issue. For him, it has to do with the CB -10 zoning designation and making it possible for developers to build even taller buildings anywhere in the downtown. Cole stated again that he believes that before they make any amendments they need to obtain community input on such matters. Members continued to discuss the issue of taller buildings, from what 'taller' means exactly, to having taller buildings allowed only on corner lots. Mims questioned where the 'taller buildings on the corner only' idea came from recounting feedback from community members who also question the concept. Fruin then responded to Member comments, noting that his preference would be the underlying zoning. However, if the Council does not desire this, instead of amending the Comprehensive Plan, Fruin would recommend they look at the underlying zoning issue. Amending the zoning code would be a huge undertaking, but he believes it would still be the preferred path in that it would offer the most clarity. Fruin also spoke to Cole's comment that they should stick with the Comprehensive Plan unless a project really "wows" them. He stated that this is good in theory, but that it is difficult for staff to gauge which projects would merit such attention. Fruin stated that one thing to keep in mind is that when developers first approach the City with ideas, there is a need to keep this confidential at first. Cole then spoke to this, stating that he believes when they are talking about a publicly - funded project, they need to be as open as possible and as early as possible. Mims said she has no idea how you can write a policy with this philosophy without using the map on p. 106 of the Master Plan. Throgmorton then presented two images of how downtown could change over time, noting that he believes people in the community have these images. One is that the Council would inhibit any type of development in the downtown and gradually the older buildings would deteriorate and the downtown would fade, with businesses getting into trouble. Second is that the Council is willing to provide TIF support for any project it considers to be meritorious based on what the particulars are at that time, and given the existing zoning of CB -10, then new, very tall buildings could be constructed anywhere downtown. This would transform the character of the downtown, EDC April 14, 2017 4 APPROVED according to Throgmorton, beyond what anyone could imagine. Throgmorton stated that he believes they don't want either of these polar extremes, but they need to find a happy synthesis. Throgmorton believes the Downtown & Riverfront Crossings Master Plan seeks to describe a happy synthesis, by allowing development while preserving the historic character of the downtown. He agreed that Cole's suggestion of the language 'substantial weight' being given to compliance with the Comprehensive Plan, but not necessarily required. The map could also be incorporated into this policy. Cole again suggested gathering input from various groups within the community on this as well, when looking at deviating from the Comprehensive Plan standards. Mims then spoke to the map, asking for some clarification on what is shown and again stated that she believes they still don't have the clarity they were seeking, unless they tie it specifically to the map. Throgmorton moved to use the language 'substantial weight be given to projects that clearly follow the Downtown, Riverfront Crossings District Master Plan, including the map shown on page 106. However the Council will identify certain factors that will allow staff to deviate from those standards.' Cole seconded the motion. The motion carried 2-1, Mims in the negative. Moving on to the second decision point — determine how to consider architectural impact on adjacent properties; is staff Design Review sufficient, is it important to note that most projects are not fully designed at the development agreement phase, changes are often necessary throughout the design process; general compliance with initial concepts rather than exact adherence to early design phase documents can be used. Regarding staff Design Review, Throgmorton stated that he would like to hear more on this from Fruin. He stated that there is language in the Board of Adjustment's rules that he believes should be brought to bear on this, and in fact were on the Linn Street project. That is that any project the City supports — "must be designed in a manner that is sensitive and complementary to any adjacent historic buildings. It must contribute to a harmonious rhythm and proportion of building elements along the street frontage, and ensure that differences in mass and scale are mitigated through facade articulation and if possible upper story setbacks." Mims then returned to her original question of 'is staff Design Review sufficient.' Throgmorton stated that he believes this type of language would send a clear signal to architects working on particular projects, but he questions how consistent it is with the design review requirements that the staff currently has, with regard to projects downtown. Fruin responded that any TIF project downtown triggers staff Design Review. Throgmorton stated that he understand this, but he questioned what the staff considers when doing its design review. Fruin gave some examples of how staff deals with such issues, noting that they look at the relationship to any historical structure that is directly adjacent to a project. He added that at the development agreement stage they have a good idea of what a proposed building is supposed to look like upon completion. At this point Council can ask for further clarification, etc., before moving forward. Members agreed to move forward with the second decision point as discussed. EDC April 14, 2017 5 APPROVED Promotion of historic preservation and reinvestment into existing building stock— Mims noted that they have discussed this somewhat already. Council may want to consider district -wide TIF applications for renovations or less time-consuming processes such as tax abatement. Mims stated that she is supportive of this. She believes they want to be able to consider district -wide applications when it might be relevant for the scale of an overall project. Fruin stated that this involves working with existing property owners and he spoke to how this might be accomplished in the downtown. Members agreed with this approach. Throgmorton stated that he has recently been reading about cities in Europe that are requiring net -zero carbon emissions on new buildings. He added that he isn't advocating they do this, but is sharing that this is happening around the world and that it may be a conversation to be had in the future. Cole stated that he would like to urge the public to give any feedback on these issues. �1 (e1 ;f;h 111 ri1:$ Ford and Hightshoe gave Members a quick update on the 'So You Want to Start a Business' program being offered in conjunction with Kirkwood Community College again this year. Hightshoe stated that after they reviewed input from last year's program, it became evident that people wanted a more condensed version. This year there will be a 'Building Business Basics' program on Saturday, May 20, from 9:30 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. This will end with a lunch with business owners so that attendees can meet with them to talk about running their business. They will be reaching out to low-income entrepreneurs and also through social media outlets. COMMITTEE TIME: None. OTHER BUSINESS: None. ADJOURNMENT: Throgmorton moved to adjourn the meeting at 1:00 P.M. Cole seconded the motion. Motion carried 3.0. EDC April 14, 2017 6 APPROVED Council Economic Development Committee ATTENDANCE RECORD 2016-2017 Key: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused TERM N A N 0 -4 O N W A A NAME EXP. Xt4� o J A A N = N A � Ol OI Ol OI O! W " V A V V Rockne Cole 01/02/18 X X X X X X X X X X Susan Mims 01/02/18 X X X X X X X X X X Jim 01/02/18 X X X X X X X X X X Throgmorton Key: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused US -01 -17 2b(5) Approved Minutes Human Rights Commission Halling Conference Room, City Hall June 20, 2017 Members Present: Jeff Falk, Adil Adams, Tahuanty Pena, Joe Coulter, Kim Hanrahan, Eliza Willis, Shams Ghoneim. Members Not Present: Barbara Kutzko, Andrea Cohen. Staff Present: Stefanie Bowers. Recommendations to City Council: No. Call to Order: Hanrahan called the meeting to order at 5:31 PM. Approval of May 16, 2017 Minutes: Coulter moved to approve the minutes; the motion was seconded by Ghoneim. A vote was taken and the motion passed 4-0. (Adams not present for vote. Hanrahan and Willis abstained as they were not present at this meeting). Collaborating with Community Organizations: Hanrahan will provide an update in the fall. Update on Building and Crossing Bridges Together: This event being held on September 30 at Hancher will feature a performance by Niyaz, an Iranian Canadian musical duo, in the evening and interactive activities in the afternoon. Commission subcommittee members (Falk, Adams, Kutzko) are planning to make the event very inclusive by inviting many to perform. Juneteenth: Willis and Coulter will represent the Commission at this annual event and present the certificate and award to the winner of the youth essay contest. Human Rights Awards Breakfast 2017: Commissioners selected Jean Lloyd -Jones as the keynote speaker for the Human Rights Awards Breakfast. She will be asked to speak on human rights in the context of a polarized political system. Coulter moved and Ghoneim seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0. Update Social Justice Racial Equity Grant Process for FY18: This Commission subcommittee (Willis, Cohen, Hanrahan) has been reviewing and making suggestions on the grant application, evaluation process and pre -training for all Commissioners. They will present their recommendations at a special commission meeting being held on July 11. Update Rapid Response Team: This Commission subcommittee (Willis, Ghoneim, Hanrahan, Cohen) has met once and a draft letter has been created to solicit area organizations. Parities in the Park: Falk attended the June 8 event at the Court Hill at Wetherby Park. Park. Hanrahan will attend the August 3 event Report from the Iowa City Community School District's Equity Committee: At its last meeting, the group discussed ADA compatibility for a playground at Shimek Elementary and the cultural climate of schools in the district. Report from the University of Iowa Center for Human Rights Advisory Board: The program committee is working on an event that would discuss the affects of terrorism and violence on youth. Announcements: Willis reported on Pride 2017 held in downtown Iowa City on Saturday, June 17. Coulter reminded Commissioners of the City Manager's Roundtable notes available on the City's website. Adams mentioned that he and others will be break the Fast for Ramadan Iftar this upcoming weekend. Ghoneim invited Commissioners to break the Fast at the Community Ramadan Iftar being held at the Iowa City Mosque. Staff: The City recently changed four restrooms to single use family restrooms. Anyone can use the restrooms, regardless of gender identity or expression. The strategic planning meeting for the Social Justice Racial Equity Grant is set for July 11 from 5:15 — 7:15 PM at the Robert A. Lee Recreation Center, Meeting Room A. Next regular meeting date July 18, 2017 at 5:30 PM. Adjournment: 6:50 PM 2 mX009 w yC is >C iC k O k x = N H O x X is is uo yo R UO x UR N A�1 rO� rry� � N X i i Iv Iv IV O i N z=Nx Dc k x o=NDS I � k �u iu< iU i b x x x x ANO �. .-. W W . W r-, V�44 0 00 0 0 0 0 " .. , O , O N " N '-' N ._' N '"' N N '_' N '"_' N Y q c n x° W m O Q ti d ice. y q Q sem. o ° :o a o W °'S° wk ti d Ha: 4 d w3 dU�= ai0 mX009 w CITY OF IOWA CITY 2b61 MEMORANDUM Date: 7/25/17 To: Mayor and City Council From: Staff Member of Parks & Recreation Commission Re: Recommendation from Parks & Recreation Commission At their May 10, 2017 meeting the Parks and Recreation Commission made the following recommendation to the City Council: Moved by Younker, seconded by Laurian, that the Commission recommends that Council allow alcohol permits be available for all park shelter reservations consistent with the existing event venue alcohol policy and that it be reviewed in six months after implementation. Motion passed 8- 1. 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 S:RECform.doc MINUTES APPROVED MAY 10, 2017 RECREATION CENTER – MEETING ROOM B Members Present: Suzanne Bentler, Larry Brown, Clay Claussen, Wayne Fett, Cara Hamann, Lucie Laurian, Angie Smith, Jamie Venzon, Joe Younker Members Absent: None Staff Present: Juli Seydell Johnson, Chad Dyson, Joyce Carroll, Matthew Eckhardt, Matt Eidahl, RaQuishia Harrington, Jeff Sears Others Present: Thomas Agran CALL TO ORDER Chairman Claussen called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council action): Moved by Younker, seconded by Laurian, that the Commission recommends that Council allow alcohol permits be available for all park shelter reservations consistent with the existing event venue alcohol policy and that it be reviewed in six months after implementation. Motion passed 8- 1. OTHER FORMAL ACTION: Moved by Hamann, seconded by Bentler, to approve the April 12, 2017 minutes as written. Passed 7-0. (Laurian and Smith Absent). PUBLIC DISCUSSION None Laurian arrived at 5:04 p.m. Smith arrived at 5:09 p.m. REVIEW OF ALCOHOL POLICY FOR PARK SHELTERS: A resident recently reached out to City Council asking that the City reconsider the policies relating to alcohol use in public park shelters. The City Council discussed this at the May 2, 2017 work session. At that time Council directed staff to research similar policies from other cities and to discuss with the Parks Commission for their input and recommendation. Alcohol is currently banned in all city parks except during rentals at The Park Lodge at The Terry Trueblood Recreation Area, the Ned Ashton House, and the Riverside Festival Stage at City Park. Seydell Johnson clarified that this policy will not apply to open container rules within parks. In other words, alcohol will not be allowed in all park areas—only with PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION May 10, 2017 Page 2 of 4 shelter rentals. A person would be required to rent a park shelter and apply for a permit. Fett asked what the department staff recommends. Seydell Johnson said that when speaking with Parks Maintenance Staff, it is very apparent that consumption of alcohol is already taking place in the parks. She explained that such a policy would follow similar guidelines as that written for the event facilities where a person would be required to carry insurance and that consumption would be limited to beer and wine, no hard liquor. She also noted that several cities charge an application fee and that this may be considered as well. Laurian shared that she is concerned about the increase in noise this may create. Seydell Johnson said that perhaps a policy regarding the noise level be considered, however, it should be separate from the alcohol policy. Fett asked how staff would determine if the renter is 21. Seydell Johnson explained that by filling out and signing the application, the renter assures legal age and would be assuming responsibility for anyone attending their function. Claussen said that he noted that other policies exclude kegs. Seydell Johnson said that small pony kegs would be allowed but nothing larger. Younker said that he is in favor of allowing alcohol consumption but that perhaps it should be limited to just some of the parks. Laurian also suggested that perhaps it not be allowed in shelters that are in close proximity of a playground. Seydell Johnson said that parks staff only mentioned that they would suggest that it not be allow near the youth sports fields. Seydell Johnson stated that shelters near playgrounds hold family events where the group may want to consume alcohol but also have a play area nearby for children attending the event. Thomas Agran, a member of the public, said that he lives on VanBuren Street adjacent to North Market Square Park. He said that he is in complete support of allowing alcohol in the parks because, as Seydell Johnson mentioned, it already happens regularly without any acknowledgement. He also noted that recently while in Milwaukee that he attended a function where there was a beer garden present within a park and that it was a great addition. He feels that by allowing drinking in the park, there will be a more critical mass of responsible drinking. He is concerned that based on discussion he is hearing this evening amongst commission members, that perhaps North Market Square would be a park that would be excluded from the policy. He feels that this inconsistency will lead to more confusion. He further noted that it does not take alcohol to make a loud gathering in a park. Venzon agreed with Agran in that restricting it to certain parks will only cause more confusion. Bentler and Hamann also agreed. Seydell Johnson confirmed that what she is hearing from Commission, alcohol would be allowed at shelter rentals located at athletic complexes. Alcohol would only be allowed with shelter rental, not general spectating. Brown expressed his deep concern as he feels that by allowing alcohol at the sports fields, the City is promoting drinking. Laurian suggested that staff, while making reservations, remind patrons that there is a noise ordinance in Iowa City. Moved by Younker, seconded by Laurian, that the Commission recommends that Council allow 1. Hamann noted that she is not comfortable with the extra cost for insurance along with the fee for shelter reservation and the possible additional application fee. She believes this will only encourage illegal drinking. Laurian agreed with this concern as well as Agran, from the audience. Seydell Johnson pointed out that when reviewing other cities most require insurance. Hamann said that it appeared that in those cases patrons were only charged for the use of the shelter and then an extra $20 for the alcohol permit. Moved by Younker, seconded by Venzon, that the City Attorney be asked to provide guidance as liability insurance requirements. Passed 9-0. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION May 10, 2017 Page 3 of 4 Claussen thanked Thomas Agran for attending tonight's meeting and providing his input. Thomas wanted to clarify that he did not send the initial email to Council, therefore, proving that he is not the only party supporting this policy. RECREATION UPDATE AND REVIEW: Seydell Johnson noted that while the Commission has a good idea of what projects are happening within the Iowa City parks system, they may not be aware of what all the Recreation staff is involved in. Therefore, she invited all Recreation Supervisors to present a summary of their programs and operations to the Commission. Dyson explained that the role of the Recreation Division is to provide high-quality leisure time opportunities to the public while increasing the number of people served, improving the quality of program delivery and to advocate the benefits of recreation involvement to the general public. The Recreation Division manages the operation of the City's recreation facilities, programs and services. The Recreation Division offers programs in youth and adult sports, aquatics, art, social and environmental programs along with programs for persons with special needs. The presentations from the staff members are attached. Following the presentations Bentler expressed her appreciation to the staff and was really pleased that they took the time to present to the Commission. Laurian said she is looking forward to the City website including all of the Recreation program information. Claussen also thanked the staff on behalf of the entire commission. Smith departed at 6:45 p.m. PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR — JULI SEYDELL JOHNSON: No report. CHAHIS REPORT No report. ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Fett, seconded by Younker, to adjourn the meeting at 6:56. Motion passed 8-0. (Smith absent PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION May 10, 2017 Page 4 of 4 PARKS AND RECREATION ATTENDANCE RECORD NAME 'u TERM EXPIRES 'o na Suzanne 1/1/17 X X X X X X O/E X NM X X X Bentler Larry Brown 1/1/18 X X X X X X X X NM O/E X X Clay 1/1/18 X X X X X X X X NM X X X Claussen Maggie 1/1/17 X O/E X X X O/E X Elliott Wayne Fett 1/1/19 X X O/ X O/E X X X NM X X X E Cara 1/1/20 X X X X X X X O/E NM X X X Hamann Lucie 1/1/10 X O/E O/ X X X X X NM X X X Laurian E Paul Roesler 1/1/18 X X X O/E X X O/E Angie Smith 1/1/18 * * * * * * * * * O/E X X Jamie 1/1/20 * * * * * * * X NM X X X Venzon Joe Younker 1/1/20 X O/E X X O/E X X X NM O/E X X KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused NM = No meeting LQ = No meeting due to lack of quorum * = Not a member at this time r �` CITY OF IOWA CITY 2b171 MEMORANDUM Date: July 21, 2017 To: Mayor and City Council From: Bob Miklo, Planning & Zoning Commission Re: Recommendations from Planning & Zoning Commission At their July 20, 2017 meeting the Planning & Zoning Commission approved the July 6 minutes with the following recommendation to the City Council: By a vote of 7-0 the Commission recommends to approve SUB17-00008, Stone Bridge Estates Part 10, a 22 -lot, 7.9 acre preliminary plat located along Huntington Drive and Thames Drive and also REZ17-00011, a rezoning of 1.59 acres from Medium Density Single Family (RS -8) zone to RM -12 Low Density Multi -family, for property located on Huntington Drive, south of Thames be approved subject to a conditional zoning agreement as stated in the Staff Report. 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 JULY 6, 2017 — 7:00 PM — FORMAL MEETING EMMA J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL MEMBERS PRESENT: Ann Freerks, Carolyn Dyer Mike Hensch, Phoebe Martin, Max Parsons, Mark Signs, Jodie Theobald MEMBERS ABSENT: STAFF PRESENT: Sara Hektoen, John Yapp OTHERS PRESENT: Charlie Eastham, Jeff Maxwell, Kurt Kimmerling, Mazahir Salih, Becker, John Moreland RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL: Margarita Baltazar, Julay Flores, Ivan Hall, Kevin Monson, Jimmy By a vote of 7-0 the Commission recommends to approve SUB17-00008, a 22 -lot, 7.9 acre preliminary plat located along Huntington Drive and Thames Drive and also REZ17-00011, a rezoning of 1.59 acres from Medium Density Single Family (RS -8) zone to RM -12 Low Density Multi -family, for property located on Huntington Drive, south of Thames be approved subject to a conditional zoning agreement as stated in the Staff Report. CALL TO ORDER: Freerks called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: Charlie Eastham (953 Canton Street) said that years ago when he was on the Commission, the Commission spent a lot of time on the Wal Mart application, and spent a lot of time on landscaping requirements for the large parking lot. Now that the landscaping has had time to mature, it looks fantastic. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ITEM (CPA16-00006): A public hearing 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. Yapp reviewed the staff memo. Yapp stated the staff memo was written in response to the materials the applicant had submitted at the last meeting. Yapp said staff has identified two questions for the Commission 1. Is Highway/Neighborhood Commercial land use appropriate north of Knollwood Lane and 2. If Highway/Neighborhood Commercial land use might be appropriate, what types of policies/goals should be incorporated in a Comprehensive Plan amendment to address concerns with proximity to Knollwood residents? Planning and Zoning Commission July 6, 2017—Formal Meeting Page 2 of 13 Hensch asked why staff called out the gas station when developing these questions. Yapp said it was due to public comment and commission discussion at the last meetings where this was discussed. Freerks agreed, saying they had spent some time discussion the commercial land use and gas station at the last meeting. Yapp said Idylwild residents and representatives from the Dubuque Street LLC team have met several times to discuss stormwater issues, and that they would be providing input to the Commission tonight. Yapp said the applicants have submitted wetland, wooded area, and threatened and endangered species survey information for parts of the property including the Dubuque Street frontage. The applicants have not, however, conducted a specific tree survey. Hensch asked what the tree preservation requirement is. Yapp said that for commercial property, up to 90% of a woodland may be cleared under the Sensitive Areas Ordinance. For residential property, it is 50%. Yapp said that regarding the types of design standards to be incorporated into a conditional zoning agreement, the applicant has provided examples of landscaping and building material standards. Staff concurs that these are good examples of the types of conditions which might be in a Conditional Zoning Agreement, in addition to addressing concerns like lighting and signage along Dubuque Street. Freerks opened public discussion. Jeff Maxwell (Maxwell Construction) discussed the stormwater management. He noted the City has in the current budget $450,000 to design the Idyllwild stormwater diversion channel which is located on the no -name road along the west side of the Idyllwild property. Maxwell stated he has met with Kurt Kimmerling (the Idyllwild Homeowners Association), Deb Thorne and Ivan Hall three times since the last Planning and Zoning meeting with the intention of sharing ideas on how to move forward as a neighborhood community. Maxwell noted that even though the development has the obligation and intention to abide by all the stormwater ordinances the City imposes, Idyllwild is in a particular position where their comfort level needs more attention than just the City ordinances. They feel a pumping station is critical so Maxwell has asked City Engineers Jason Reichart and Jason Havel to arrange a meeting with the Idyllwild group to discuss the diversion channel. There have been two different scenarios proposed, one an open ditch and the other an enclosed piping system that would convey water from Foster Road underground to the river. Maxwell stated that the Idyllwild Community, or the representatives from that community, are favoring the lesser expensive option of the diversion proposals. The City hired Howard Green Engineering to conduct a study who made recommendations to the City and now that plan will go out as a request for proposal to local civil engineers to prepare and submit bids to the City. Maxwell stated that their intention, as neighbors upstream of Idyllwild, are to serve as their friends and their neighbors. Maxwell is the contact person and will continue to meet with them and share with them and invite them to meetings to discuss the importance of the pumping station. Maxwell stated if the diversion channel is built there will be a sluice gate that would be in addition to the private sluice gates that have been designed in the Idyllwild retention flood walls that have already been built. That retention and flood wall barrier will only be solid if the diversion wall also has a sluice gate and Maxwell believes that is part of the plan that the City is endorsing. If those gates are ever activated by the high water level in the Iowa River, on the Idyllwild side of the levee, there is no way to get rid of any stormwater without physically pumping it over the levee. Maxwell is hoping to meet with the City to request that if they are endorsing the lesser of the two priced diversion channels could the City sluice Planning and Zoning Commission July 6, 2017—Formal Meeting Page 3 of 13 Engineering department consider allocating the unused portion of that budgeted amount towards the pump station. The Idyllwild Community would hire their consulting engineer to design, submit that to the City for their review, so that the Idyllwild Community could have a complete stormwater protection system. Maxwell noted that the funds that will be left over (of the $450,000 budgeted, only $250,000 is estimated needed) are hoped to be endorsed to be contributed towards the pump station. Any shortfall or deficit the Idyllwild Community would be responsible for as well as the Forest View Community would consider participating in helping so they can close the loop on the fear of the stormwater issue at Idyllwild. Hensch asked if the stormwater diversion channel and the pump station are both approved and funded would that satisfy the concerns of the Idyllwild residents. Maxwell can't totally speak for the Idyllwild residents but in their conversations he felt they were pleased with that proposal. Margarita Baltazar (President of the Association of Forest View) is here following the process because they are the most interested in this project advancing. They are low income people, they have been working for more than one year with the developers. They seeing that the developers are worried and they want to help the community. She stated her community is the most interested one in this project and they want to see this project moving forward. She feels there are some moments when people are telling her this project is not moving forward, but she tries to tell them yes it is moving forward as it is a good thing for their sons and daughters. She stated that this is good for the community and would be a good example for other communities to show this can be done together. She is very happy with the developers, as these are not developers like other ones that just come, build and leave, this is taking care of people and being very concerned with the people living in the community. The developers have listened to the residents and they all have the same goal, it is a win-win situation and improve everyone's lives. She acknowledged that there is worry for the community and people and thanked everyone for that. JulaV Flores (Forest View) is speaking as representing Forest View Association and the Center for Worker Justice which has been a lot of support. She wants to reaffirm and confirm what the president of the association was saying. They say it was a good presentation from the developers and it is a good sign that everyone is meeting at the table and just to be able to have conversation is a good sign and is expecting good results. She stated there is no doubt this will be a good example that Iowa City can have with this project because it can be something good for the community. It will be an example for other communities. This is especially true for the community because there will be good housing for low income people. The project is also taking into account the community and the environment. Especially the social part has been taken into consideration and she is very thankful for that. Signs noted that the developer and the residents spoke at the Johnson County Affordable Housing Coalition meeting last week with the focus discussing the affordable housing aspect of the project. Signs was present but did not participate in the conversation. Kurt Kimmerling (33 Trevose Place) is the President of the Idyllwild Association. He first thanked Jeff Maxwell and Eddie Cole for the time they spent with the Association, they had three very good meetings. There has been quite a bit of progress but still a long way to go. With regards to whether Idyllwild is satisfied with the solutions presented, the answer is no. The goal of stormwater management resolved for the entire district has not been met. It is there understanding that there could be quite a few discreet different stormwater retention areas up there (underground, ponds, etc). Idyllwild would like to know better how those will be Planning and Zoning Commission July 6, 2017 — Formal Meeting Page 4 of 13 independently managed because all that water will eventually come their direction. Additionally Kimmerling added that pumping the water out will be so important when the sluice gates are closed. Idyllwild's three goals are (1) diversion, (2) pump station funding, and (3) future stormwater management for the district. With regard to the RFQ, Kimmerling spoke to Ron Knoche and he expects to take the diversion RFQ bids to City Council the first week in August. Freerks asked Yapp to talk about the the idea of a stormwater management district as that is a new concept. Yapp noted it is not something Iowa City is equipped to do nor have ever done in the way that is being described. The City does have a few large stormwater basins that are City controlled (one in Hickory Hill park and one is Scott park). In this type of situation where there are multiple smaller watersheds (because of the topography) developed at different times when properties are being developed. Yapp stated they have discussed at the staff level the possibility or idea of that being a self-imposed stormwater management district with private covenants and private management fund set up for future maintenance. Hensch asked if there were statutory needs for a regional stormwater management system. Yapp said Iowa City has not done it before. Hektoen stated that just because there are multiple stormwater management basins doesn't mean it will be managed by different groups per say. Typically there is a homeowners association within any subdivision and it is managed by the HOA or designee. Hensch asked when the appropriate time to discuss the management is. Rezoning? Subdivision Plat? Hektoen replied it is most commonly done in the subdivision phase. Mazahir Salih (Center for Worker Justice) stated while she doesn't live in Forest View but is invested in this project because Iowa City has an affordable housing crisis. Most of the Forest View residents are members of the Center for Workers Justice and they are very concerned about losing their homes and not being able to find any good housing options in Iowa City. As this project has progressed, what she has noticed is how the developers has worked with the residents to achieve a creative solution for the affordable housing crisis in Iowa City. She encourages the Commission to support this project because of the benefit for the residents. Ivan Hall (14 Idyllwild Court) began with the point that the proposed development is not just homeowners, it is commercial, and it is retail space, hotels, and possibly gas stations. There is a mix where people will be doing things autonomously and there is a risk associated with all the different operations. There could be an operation failure that would affect any one or all of the systems that are connected and could result with water being backed up (not because of weather) due to an operational shutdown. The law of probability is if there are 11 or 12 systems something will go wrong. Hall next commented on the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) authority where the City can set up a commission locally, there can be a mandate to enforce it, the City is supposed to offer protections to the residents by whatever means makes sense. When the City implements under that guidance it is federally regulated. The commission can also impose regulations above and beyond City Code to address needs often created by planning and zoning requests. Therefore there are two precedents to come forward to set up these councils, they don't have to be funded, but they need to be legitimate and need to be set up through that. Hall stated one of the things he was disappointed in with the Staff study doesn't give enough press to all the activity and energy Idyllwild has put forward. Stormwater should be one of the top four or five Staff recommendations. The tactic of Planning and Zoning Commission July 6, 2017—Formal Meeting Page 5 of 13 conditional zoning could be used as everything needs a burning bridge. The City's burning bridge is the NPDES. Hall is trying to make them understand the Commission has an obligation to enact phases and are guided by them. Hall offered to meet with the City Attorney if she doesn't comprehend the regulations as he is familiar with federal regulations. It is criminal negligence, as defined by gross deviation from a reasonable standard of care having full knowledge of law, policy and community and neighborhood issues and vulnerabilities and consequences. Hall stated with the Staff study that was done, with the study for Idyllwild that was done, and all the good work they are doing together no one is able to say they don't know what the vulnerabilities are for the area. The area (Idyllwild) is trying to handle this themselves so setting up underneath the NPDES to give them legitimate standing and to dedicate one staff person to be the recorder to make it work is what they are requesting. Hall acknowledged this isn't the standard business process of dealing with homeowner groups, commercial properties are tough to deal with and how that is managed as a single integrated system will be hard unless there are some rules imposed on the developer that all participants agree to before they become a member of this enterprise. Signs asked if Hall's main thrust is that the NPDES is the authority to set up a commission to be the stormwater group. Hall confirmed that is his point and there are many opportunities to be taken advantage of. Kevin Monson (North Dubuque Street LLC) gave a short summary for the Commission because there has been a lot of details and issues raised but he wants to take it back to the goals of the project. There needs to be a comprehensive idea of what really is the plan for this area of our City. There are five big goals. (1) Safe, affordable, long-term housing for the current residents of Forest View. They want to maintain that community, it is truly a community within the City. Other developers that have approached the Coles throughout the years did not have that goal and thankfully the Coles are part of that community and saw the value of maintaining the community. That makes Monson proud to be part of this team, improving the living conditions of those that call Forest View their home is the primary goal. (2) Smart Growth. It is very easy for the City to grow and take up more farmland and we see that happen every day. It is a lot more difficult to do an infill project such as this. It has built in issues, but smart growth is the way he best sees growth in the future. That means continuing constant communication with neighbors, working together to find solutions to common issues, and Monson noted he has never been part of a project where they have as many good neighbor meetings. When they began they didn't have answers, but over time they have been able to work towards solutions that are viable, feasible, affordable, and all wraps together. (3) Diversity. There has been much said about low-income housing, but there will also be moderate -income housing, hope to have retirement housing, a true mix and very diverse community. That mix includes jobs, jobs for the residents, jobs for the community, jobs and opportunities for people to very easily walk to get services where they once would have had to drive. This will be a much different development than has been seen in neighboring communities. (4) Protecting the environment. They have been pushing since day one to use low -impact design strategies. That is not standard practice in the community and is a work in progress. Earthview Environmental is part of their team. (5) To beautify the entrance to the community. As a longtime resident of Iowa City, Monson shared we often overlook the entrances to the City and feels that this entrance in particular has been overlooked. The 40 year old mobile home park is the first thing some of our visitors see. We can do better. The Dubuque Street corridor is a very important part of the City and the design will protect the green space along corridor. The architectural guidelines will be very stringent on what will be seen in the construction of the buildings. They will be stone, wood and glass. They will celebrate the wooded setting. The development is named Forest View because they want Planning and Zoning Commission July 6, 2017—Formal Meeting Page 6 of 13 to keep the forest view, it is part of their mission. Monson asks for the Commission's support so they can work together and move forward as a community Ivan Hall stated that Yapp has a copy of the permit for the NPDES and can forward it to the Commission for their opportunities to govern with authority coming from the Federal Government. Freerks stated she feels there are still a few details that need to be outlined and hates making up language on the fly. The Commission has had the past two weeks to review documents and hear from Staff and just now she feels like she can digest all of it. Hektoen stated if there are questions for the applicant it needs to be framed as such and done in public hearing. If there just needs to be discussion amongst the Commission then the public hearing should be closed. Freerks noted her concerns to the applicant about the placement of the gas station and would rather see office commercial south of the new roadway. Part of what Staff outlined in response to the conversation a few weeks ago was that neighborhood commercial use may not be appropriate there and may not achieve all the goals Mr. Monson just outlined. Freerks is questioning the details and is not opposed to the commercial, just the transition from the homes to the commercial. Monson replied that certainly they have a diagram but they have not marketed any piece of the property and are a long ways away from being able to do that. They have already discussed moving the hotel to where the market it on the diagram. The idea was to hide the market more effectively (because it is lower than the tree ridge) and the back wall would have no windows and be 300 feet away. If the hotel or other commercial building goes there, it will definitely been seen by the neighbors. He feels they can address the concerns with materials and plantings much more effective than if a bigger structure were there. Freerks noted that the gentlemen that is closest to the area has a concern about a gas station that close to his home. Monson acknowledged the concern but noted when one has a forest in their back yard for year and now it is to be developed of course there are concerns. Monson said they are trying to mitigate those concerns and make is as least intrusive as possible. Others in the area voiced concern about having a taller building there because of noise and light pollution. Freerks asked what the hours of the marketplace (gas station) might be. Monson replied that it has not yet been marketed so those details have not been decided. Hektoen stated those are the type of details that are addressed at the conditional zoning stage. Freerks understands that but is concerned about the impact on the area, which is decided at this Comprehensive Amendment stage. Monson noted that with regards to noise and traffic, the traffic on Dubuque Street is much closer to the houses than this new development will be. Freerks stated it is more than just car noise, it could be speakers from the gas station that generates noise. Freerks asked Yapp if commercial office was allowed in the area, what the height restrictions would be. Yapp believes it would be two stories (25 feet). Martin asked Monson what all the possibilities of zoning have they looked at along the Dubuque Street exit. Monson replied that he is an architect and has a problem when people say a building is not attractive or a distraction. A proper designed building with materials that will add to the character of the Dubuque Street corridor and frankly has to be better than looking at a 40's era mobile home park. They will continue to feature the natural features of the area and maintain the ravine. Planning and Zoning Commission July 6, 2017 — Formal Meeting Page 7 of 13 Martin stated that what the City has done regarding the trail system along Dubuque Street and across the bridge seems great but she had a friend hit by a car using the crosswalk with that trail. The City has tried to keep that entrance beautified and even with the construction of the trail system didn't disturb the landscape. So now adding a hotel and gas station, how will that maintain the beautification of the area? Monson replied that part of their plan is a path to connect the trail systems down to Foster Road. Regarding the entrance to the area, they showed renderings at a previous meeting of stone walls as a gateway to Forest View. Freerks shared she feels less comfortable after hearing that because weeks ago they heard that the buildings will be low and set back, signs will be low and the lush green entrance will be maintained. Now it seems as if the buildings will be close to the road and just by saying the buildings will be beautiful and constructed with high end materials doesn't create the same beautiful entrance that people expect for Iowa City. Monson noted that his point was not to say they wouldn't continue the lush green entrances, he is admitting that every building will not be hidden by trees on this lot. They know they will not need large signage as everyone uses apps nowadays to find facilities. Their plans show all kinds of different areas of protecting the land masses and tree covers and they will develop more on the areas that are more open. Monson added that almost all the buildings (the market is the exception) will have parking under the buildings, therefore reducing impact on the footprint size and impact on the green space. Yapp showcased on the map the areas of the proposed buildings within the development. He noted the only maps that are being considered for adoption into the Comprehensive Plan however are the land use map and sensitive areas map. Jimmy Becker (Dubuque Street LLC) was born and raised in Iowa City and his brother currently lives in the Peninsula neighborhood. He works for Blackbird Investments (part of the Dubuque Street LLC). He wants to address the question of the hotel and marketplace and how they will be able to preserve trees while at the same time proposing commercial buildings. Each issue is a piece of a puzzle that will fit into this master plan. With regards to the marketplace and the topography of that area allows for a way to tuck it within the trees with minimal invasion. Additionally with the hotels they will be building up (rather than out) again preserving the greenery and trees. Martin asked without the hotels and gas station, would the rest of the development be viable. Becker confirmed that those proposals make the rest of the project viable, specifically for the affordable housing. Freerks closed the public hearing Hensch moved to approve CPA16-00005 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 as listed in the Staff Report. Parsons seconded the motion. Hensch noted that while listening to all the discussions and speakers he kept in his mind what is most important to the community and if all those criteria are met. (1) Infill development; yes, this project brings development to an underutilized area; (2) entrance way to Iowa City; the poor Planning and Zoning Commission July 6, 2017 — Formal Meeting Page 8 of 13 condition of Forest View currently and the impression it leaves on visitors to Iowa City will be addressed; (3) affordable housing; this development address an chronic issue in Iowa City; (4) stormwater management; while not discussed in the Comprehensive Plan it can be address in rezoning and subdivision; (5) preserving trees; the beautiful entrance to Iowa City needs to be preserved and a goal to the Comprehensive Plan can be added to maintain a buffer of trees at the entrance. Theobald agrees with Hensch, and believes this is an opportunity to create a really interesting entrance to Iowa City. Her concern is in recent developments when she has seen what was put in for landscaping she has been disappointed. This would be an area where the landscaping needs to be preserved. She doesn't disagree with commercial properties being in that area, it could enhance the area, if done correctly. She feels there are the proper steps in the future to ensure it is done correctly. Freerks stated she is not opposed to commercial either, her question is in the placement of the gas station and having it right next to residential. Additionally there is concern about the removal of trees in a commercial area. She feels there needs to be a goal added regarding preserving the terrain, greenspace and trees. Hensch agrees that 90% tree removal is unacceptable for this area (which is allowable for commercial areas) but not all trees are equal, and it is important that a tree inventory be done so that the correct species be saved. Freerks stated that Project Green would argue its more than just the trees, it's the lush green space as well. Freerks believes more detailed goals need to be added for the preservation of green space and perhaps even the stormwater management. Martin understands that at some point this area is going to be redeveloped but she hopes as a community we can all stand tall and tell our children and grandchildren of the amazing process of this really cool Dubuque Street entrance. There are amazing opportunities here and don't want to have regrets. This is a multi -facet project with many pieces. Freerks agreed and noted that there have been situations in the past that were poorly vetted and ended up being nothing like what was imagined in the beginning. Martin also stated it's not just the landscaping but also the traffic Signs mentioned that one of the items in the Strategic Plan that stands out to him was the Council's goal to proactively develop interstate entryways. He agrees that this area is a crucial piece of the community's psyche and he feels the developer knows that and knows they will be under the microscope. Signs feels that since the group of developers are part of this community they do care like the community does. Signs had some concern at first with some of what Steve Long and the others had said about trees but feels the Commission can set limits at some point in the process, wherever appropriate. When Signs thinks of the possibilities he has been using Minneapolis as a comparison. They have a lot of development in marshlands and woodlands and have done so in a beautiful way. This development group has heard all the concerns and as members of the community that do business here will want to do what is best and right to not only protect the area, but their reputations. Signs is concerned that the Commission is allowing this one piece of a 70 acre area overshadow all the good that this development is. This is one of the best conceived development ideas he has ever witnessed with the preservation of greenspace and working with affordable housing. Planning and Zoning Commission July 6, 2017—Formal Meeting Page 9 of 13 Signs also discussed the Idyllwild situation noting that area has had a problem since development and that problem isn't the fault of this developer. Less than half of the land for this development is in the Idyllwild watershed and one-third of that is being preserved. Signs feels it is important to move forward with this Amendment and perhaps add to the motion that City Council work with Idyllwild and the developer to develop a solution. However that one issue is not enough to hold up this entire project moving forward. Freerks stated it is the responsibility of the developer and the Commission to do no greater harm. Signs agreed but noted the developer will have to meet all the run-off and groundwater criteria for their development and therefore that does not need to be a hold-up at this phase. Freerks just feels there needs to be more time to iron on the details that can be added to the Amendment for reassurances. Martin added that when Signs stated this is cooperation between developers and neighbors like he's never seen before, that actually makes her more cautious because when something appears to be as amazing as this project, it seems too good to be true. Hensch recommends adding a goal about tree preservation and woodlands specifically. He noted he is not concerned about a gas station, his concern is with the entrance on Dubuque Street and maintaining the beauty of that. Theobald is concerned with the placement of the gas station and would like to see it swapped with the hotel due to environmental issues of living/working next to a gas station. There are odor issues, not to mention noise. Martin is concerned about traffic with pedestrians and bicyclists. Dubuque Street will only get more crowded when the new high school opens. Yapp noted in the motion Staff is recommending adopting the sensitive areas inventory which shows proposed impacts and proposed preservation. Freerks said she doesn't believe that is enough. Dyer noted that making an 80 foot right-of-way is going to require more than 80 feet wide of excavation and then someplace to put all that dirt. That will create a big hole in the entryway and eliminate what is appealing there. Dyer stated that two of the votes she regrets most while being on this Commission both deal with gas stations (the HyVee gas station on North Dodge and the Benton Street gas station). They light up the whole universe 24/7 and both face residential neighborhoods. They are supposed to have buffers of plantings and all they have is grass. She does not want to see the same mistake in this location. She agrees there needs to be more specific language about preserving the existing environment along Dubuque Street. Martin feels the City and the Developer need to work together to draft language to reach the goals of the Commission. Hensch withdrew his motion, Parsons seconded the withdrawal. Hensch moved to defer the item until the next meeting so an additional goal can be drafted regarding the woodland preservation along the Dubuque Street entrance. Dyer noted the houses on Knollwood Lane may qualify as historical houses since they are mid- century modern that were created by a distinctive developer. Planning and Zoning Commission July 6, 2017 —Formal Meeting Page 10 of 13 Parsons seconded the motion and concurred. Parsons noted that when he read the North District Plan there was already mention of trying to preserve the area, so would that statement remain. Yapp confirmed that would remain in the Plan. The current language discusses the scenic character of the corridor but doesn't get into the specific woodland preservation or natural areas. A vote was taken and the motion carried 6-1 (Signs dissenting). REZONING / DEVELOPMENT ITEM (REZ17-00011/SUB17-00008): Discussion of an application submitted by Arlington LC for a rezoning of approximately 1.59 acres from Medium Density Single -Family (RS -8) zone to Low Density Multi -Family (RM -12) zone and a preliminary plat of Stone Bridge Estates, Part Ten, a 22 -lot, 7.9 -acre residential subdivision located southeast of the intersection of Thames Drive and Huntington Drive. Yapp began the staff report showing a map of the location of the proposed subdivision. The existing zoning is Medium Density Single -Family Residential (RS -8), to the south is Low Density Multi -Family (RM -12) zone, and to the west is Planned Development 5, a Planned Development Single -Family. The proposed application consists of two parts; the first part is rezoning lot 147 to Low Density Multi -Family consistent with the property to the south. The remainder of the application is for a single-family subdivision, extending Huntington Drive to the northern property line and extending Thames Drive to Taft Avenue. Yapp explained that the existing RS -8 zoning does allow duplexes on corner lots and the applicant does intend to construct duplexes at the intersection of Huntington and Thames Drives and that is why those lots are a little bit larger. Yapp showed images of the proposed townhouses and lot 147 could accommodate approximately 8 townhomes that would be accessed from a rear lane. When this property was first rezoned in 2009 the City required a landscape buffer along Taft Avenue and a concept plan was adopted and Staff now requires that same concept be required. The concern at the time was someday Taft Avenue will become a major north/south arterial street and the hope is by the time that happens this landscaping will have matured and help protect the rear yards of these properties. Staff recommends approval of REZ17-00011, a rezoning of 1.59 acres from Medium Density Single Family (RS -8) zone to RM -12 Low Density Multi -family, for property located on Huntington Drive, south of Thames be approved subject to a conditional zoning agreement requiring compliance with the following: 1. The developer is required to dedicate space along Taft Avenue for right-of-way and construction easements to allow the future improvement of the arterial street; 2. Substantial conformance with the concept plan in regard to lot depths and street layout; and 3. Substantial compliance with the landscaping plan dated 10-12-09 4. Substantial compliance with the elevations submitted for two buildings consisting of 4 townhomes each. Stormwater management would be collected near the creek and directed along Scott Boulevard stormwater basin, a City regional stormwater facility. Staff also recommends approval of SUB17-00008, a 22 -lot, 7.9 acre preliminary plat located along Huntington Drive and Thames Drive. Planning and Zoning Commission July 6, 2017—Formal Meeting Page 11 of 13 Hensch asked if Taft Avenue from Highway 6 to Rochester Avenue was a City road. Yapp stated that most of that is half City half County but the City does have a maintenance agreement with the County regarding who does dust control and snow removal. Hensch shared the concern again regarding the appropriate amount for the developer to have to improve. Yapp stated that when this property was rezoned in 2009 the amount (the 12.5%) was stated in the Conditional Zoning Agreement at that time. Freerks noted these dwellings will be fronting onto Huntington Drive not Taft Avneue. Dyer asked if there are plans to extend the City limits to the other side of Taft Avenue at some point. Yapp replied that the City's growth area does not extend much further east. The growth area is defined as areas where the City can provide gravity sewer so unless a significant sewer pump station were funded and constructed they could not provide sewer no more than a quarter mile east of Taft Avenue. Freerks opened the public hearing John Moreland (960 Arlington Drive) is the developer. He noted that 25 years ago they started on American Legion Road with 300 acres and have developed all the way up to Lower West Branch Road. They have been very successful in mixing multi -family with single-family and feel it is important to have a different price point for everyone involved. One of the reasons that prompted this rezoning was the ability to build duplexes only on corner lots. Since there is the cross street that goes through this area it allows for a nice place to put some ranch -style duplexes which are very popular for retirees. They held a Good Neighbor Meeting and scaled reduced the amount of townhouses they were originally proposing due to the feedback. Freerks closed the public hearing. Martin moved to approve SUB17-00008, a 22 -lot, 7.9 acre preliminary plat located along Huntington Drive and Thames Drive and also REZ17-00011, a rezoning of 1.59 acres from Medium Density Single Family (RS -8) zone to RM -12 Low Density Multi -family, for property located on Huntington Drive, south of Thames be approved subject to a conditional zoning agreement as stated in the Staff Report. Parsons seconded the motion. Hensch stated he likes seeing the mix of housing types in this area and supports that. Freerks agrees. A vote was taken and the motion carried 7-0. CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: JUNE 1, JUNE 7 and June 15, 2017 Hensch moved to approve the meeting minutes of June 1, June 7 and June 15, 2017. Theobald seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0. Planning and Zoning Commission July 6, 2017—Formal Meeting Page 12 of 13 PLANNING AND ZONING INFORMATION: Theobald requested that locations of firework selling stands be discussed at a future meeting. Yapp noted that a City Council member has made the same request. ADJOURNMENT: Parsons moved to adjourn. Hensch 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 10/20 11/17 12/1 12/15 1/19 2/2 3/2 3/16 4/6 (W.S.) 4120 4120 5/4 5/18 6/1 (W -S) 6/7 6115 7/6 DYER, CAROLYN X X X X X X X X X X X X O/E X X X X FREERKS, ANN X X X X X X X X O/E X X X X X X X X HENSCH, MIKE X X X X X X X X X X X X X X O/E X X MARTIN, PHOEBE O/E X 0/E X X X X X X O/E O/E X X X X O/E X PARSONS, MAX X X X X X X O/E X X X X X X X X X X SIGNS, MARKX O/E X X X X X 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 KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused --- = Not a Member