HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-01-02 Bd Comm minutes01-02-18
3b(1)
MINUTES APPROVED
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
OCTOBER 11, 2017 — 5:15 PM
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Gene Chrischilles, Connie Goeb, Bryce Parker, Becky Soglin, Tim
Weitzel
MEMBERS ABSENT:
STAFF PRESENT: Susan Dulek, Sarah Walz
OTHERS PRESENT: Ben Kinseth, Duane Musser
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 5:15 PM.
ROLL CALL:
A brief opening statement was read by Soglin outlining the role and purpose of the Board and
the procedures that would be followed during the meeting.
CONSIDER THE JULY 12, 2017 MINUTES:
Weitzel moved to approve the minutes of July 12, 2017. Chrischilles seconded the motion.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 5-0.
SPECIAL EXCEPTION ITEM EXC17-00006:
Discussion of an application submitted by Hilton Garden Inn for a special exception to expand
the hours of operation for a Rooftop Service Area in the Riverfront Crossings -South Downtown
Sub -District at 328 S. Clinton Street.
Chrischilles noted that he has a personal connection with this item and recused himself from
this discussion item.
Walz presented the staff report and began by showing a map of the area and where the Hilton
Garden Inn is located. She also noted that the vacant lot next to the Hilton Garden Inn (on the
corner of Burlington and Clinton Streets) is proposed for development of two seven story
buildings, one an extended stay hotel and another a mixed-use building with ground floor
commercial and residential uses above. Walz explained that no special exception is required
for the Rooftop Service Area (RSA) itself because it is accessory to a hospitality use and it is
noted as a provisional use reviewed administratively. The Hilton Garden Inn is now open but
the Vue Rooftop Restaurant is not at this time and will not open until a certificate of occupancy
is issued.
Board of Adjustment
October 11, 2017
Page 2 of 9
Walz noted that in the staff report they mistakenly identified this area as being "open air", which
was in an older version of the plan. However, in the updated plan the only area that will be
"open air' and defined as a RSA is the front part of the building (approximately 1000 square
feet) that directly overlooks Clinton Street. The other area of the rooftop is all enclosed. Walz
also showed that the 12 story building is stepped back from the street after the fifth story. On
the north side of the building, between future uses, there is a 30 foot alley that exists separating
the buildings. The entrance to the RSA is through the restaurant.
Walz referred to the staff report notation of the Management Plan that is required for the serving
of alcohol on a rooftop and must be submitted prior to the issuance of the occupancy permit.
Walz stated that the Hilton Garden Inn has not yet submitted their management plan at this time
and Staff is working through that with them. The Plan will need to include notations of no fewer
than one employee at all times to monitor the safety and compliance. If nuisance or safety
issues arise the City can require immediate changes to the management plan. The Plan must
also indicate that food service is provided and the City knows it will be since it is connected to
the restaurant. The Management Plan will also show the understanding of the City's noise
ordinance policy regarding exterior amplified sound, which must be turned off by midnight.
Walz did not reiterate all the general criteria noted in the Staff Report, the Board's purview only
applies to the extended hours of the RSA. The RSA is allowed by City Ordinance up to 10:00
pm on weeknights and up to midnight on weekends. The Hilton Garden Inn is requesting to go
beyond those hours to midnight on weeknights (Sunday — Thursday) and to 2:00 am on
weekends (Friday and Saturday). Walz said Staff felt very comfortable in this case with this
request and articulated those reasons under the particular Standards in the report. Some
reasons are the location of the RSA is at the top of a 12 story building; it will be so different in
height from the adjacent uses, the proposed screening of the 8-foot tall glass wall; the limited
size of the RSA (it will only be 1000 square feet); limited access to the RSA (can only be
accessed through the restaurant); the surrounding zoning and uses (will be much lower
buildings) and amplified sound is not allowed in the RSA after midnight. Finally, in Riverfront
Crossings, for this sub-district (the South Sub-district), it is seen as an entertainment district and
Staff viewed this RSA as an appropriate use in a district that is meant to be lively.
Staff recommends approval of EXC17-00006, a special exception to extend the hours of
operation for a Rooftop Service Area at 318 South Clinton to 10:00 AM to midnight Sunday
through Thursday and to 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM on Friday and Saturday, subject to the following
conditions:
• General conformance with the site plan submitted with regard to the size and location
of the RSA.
• The RSA will be located on the 12th floor of the hotel and be surrounded by an 8-
foot high glass wall.
• All aspects of the RSA must conform with code standards, including lighting, sound,
and management plan.
Goeb asked if the Hilton Garden Inn needs permission from the City or the Board to do
whatever they wish in the enclosed area. Walz confirmed that they would not need permission
for anything in the enclosed area nor for anything in the RSA beyond the extension of hours.
Parker asked about amplified sounds and Walz reiterated that amplified sound could not be in
the RSA past midnight.
Soglin asked if the assumption is that because the neighboring buildings will be lower the sound
Board of Adjustment
October 11, 2017
Page 3 of 9
from the RSA will not affect them. Walz noted it is a combination of the height difference of the
buildings, the screening around the RSA and also that there is a limit to the loudness of the
amplified sound. Soglin asked if this is based on examples from other cities. Walz stated it is
not scientifically based it is just given that since the City does not allow an unlimited volume of
amplified sound it would be reasonable to expect it would not travel far enough to inconvenience
the other neighbors.
Soglin asked if there were currently any other hotels operating hours past midnight or 2:00 am.
Walz was unsure if there were other examples, this might be the first time this has been
proposed in Iowa City.
Soglin opened the public hearing and invited the applicant forward to address the Board.
Ben Kinseth (Kinseth Iowa City LLC) stated they have a pretty unique situation here with this
high-rise rooftop restaurant and bar, likely unique for the whole state. Beyond the fact that they
will have a very regimented management staff to patrol the area and they will certainly have
door service to examine ids. As far as the experience for the patrons to go outside and get the
feel of Iowa City in that unique experience they wish to offer that past midnight on the weekends
and past 10:00 pm on weekdays.
Goeb asked if the rooftop dining area is the main dining area for the hotel. Kinseth replied that it
is the main dining area for dinner, for breakfast they have a restaurant on the first floor. Goeb
asked about lunch service. Kinseth stated it will be just for dinner at first, they may open for
lunch in the future once they are stabilized.
Kinseth added that there is comfortable seating out in the outdoor area, a big rail with seats
around the glass walls, and will allow patrons to have a nice experience.
Parker asked what is directly below the RSA. Kinseth replied it was individual hotel rooms. The
construction added sound proofing but they will monitor their hotel patrons' experiences as well.
Soglin asked if Kinseth had any similar hotel setups with similar hours. Kinseth noted they have
restaurants and bars in other hotels with similar hours, but not on rooftops such as this one.
They hope this will be an entertainment destination as well as a restaurant.
Soglin asked if there were to be future issues with sound how would it be handled. Walz said
they would first look to changes to the Management Plan, perhaps limiting the use of amplified
sound, but of course the hotel will want to manage the sound for their own business purposes.
It would have to be a persistent long issue for the City to provoke the temporary use permit.
Dulek added that a disorderly house citation could be issued as well due to noise that is
bothersome.
Weitzel asked if a horizon could be placed on this exception so it could be reviewed in the future
to see how it worked. Walz believes that is not an option and Dulek also added she is unsure of
the answer to that question. Walz said they have added in conditions before that noted if there
was a set number of violations of disorderly house or convictions would result in a termination of
the special exception but they cannot set a timeline that this special exception would sunset
after ten years.
Goeb asked if the Board's decisions are precedent setting. Walz said this particular application
seems reasonable due to the difference in surrounding building heights and their particular
Board of Adjustment
October 11, 2017
Page 4 of 9
uses. The hotel also has a specific interest in controlling sound for the benefit of the other floors
of their business—this makes it different from a bar that is just a bar. There have been cases
where special exceptions have been granted to other uses, e.g. fraternities, with conditions that
effectively allow the special exception to be revoked if there are more than two nuisance
violations (convictions) within a year. Walz added that, in this case, if the special exception was
ever revoked, it would only affect the hours of operation—it would not mean the hotel could not
operate the RSA during regular hours.
Walz stated also that when the adjacent properties are developed they will be developed by the
same developers as did the Hilton Garden Inn and are aware of this special exception request.
Soglin closed the public hearing.
Goeb and Parker both stated they do not have any issues with this special exception request.
Parker added that the nature of the business is not the same as a fraternity or bar, the
expectation of problems is not there.
Weitzel agreed, noting that the building height gives it an advantage as well as the glass wall
surrounding the RSA.
Soglin admitted she would have a slight preference to add language regarding whatever an
appropriate number of violations in the first six or twelve months might be would result in the
special exception being rescinded.
Parker believes with the direct hotel rooms underneath he feels there would be extra care on
sound taken. Goeb agreed it would be self -regulated because of the hotel business.
Goeb recommends approval of EXC17-00006, a special exception to extend the hours of
operation for a Rooftop Service Area at 328 South Clinton to 10:00 AM to midnight
Sunday through Thursday and to 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM on Friday and Saturday, subject to
the following conditions:
• General conformance with the site plan submitted with regard to the size and
location of the RSA.
• The RSA will be located on the 12th floor of the hotel and be surrounded by an 8 -
foot high glass wall.
• All aspects of the RSA must conform with code standards, including lighting,
sound, and management plan.
Weitzel seconded the motion.
Parker noted that he especially considered General Standard 1 and that the building will be
separated by adjacent residential properties by a good distance.
Weitzel stated that regarding agenda item EXC17-00006 he concurs with the findings set forth
in the Staff report of October 11, 2017, and conclude the general and specific criteria are
satisfied. So unless amended or opposed by another Board member he recommends that the
Board adopt the findings in the Staff Report as our findings with acceptance of this proposal.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 4-0 (Chrischilles was recused).
Soglin stated the motion declared approved, any person who wishes to appeal this decision to a
Board of Adjustment
October 11, 2017
Page 5 of 9
court of record may do so within 30 days after this decision is filed with the City Clerk's Office.
Chrischilles rejoined the meeting.
SPECIAL EXCEPTION ITEM EXC17-00007:
Discussion of an application submitted by RKM Investments LLC for a special exception to allow
a drive-through facility in the Community Commercial (CC -2) zone at 1075 Highway 1 West.
Walz began the staff report showing an aerial view of the site along Highway 1 West. She
pointed out a shared drive that serves the entire shopping center area which is at a signalized
intersection. All drives within the shopping center area are private drives. The uses within the
shopping center are oriented more toward the private drives rather than the highway. The
subject site is a building with two units in it, unit 1069 is home to the Midtown Family Restaurant
with an entrance off the east side of the building. 1075 is the portion of the building that faces
towards the highway and has been vacant for quite some time and has an entrance off the west
side of the building. The applicant is proposing to be able to market the site with the availability
of a drive-through service. There is not currently a particular tenant or user in mind, this special
exception is to allow for expanded marketing for the vacant site. The applicant is proposing to
establish a 13 -foot driveway between the building and the property line. The building itself
would be modified (a portion of the north side of the building removed) to allow space for the
drive-through lane and required setback. Cars would circulate counter -clockwise with an order
area and pickup window. The site plan included in the Board's packet is not finalized because
there is a not a particular user with a design in mind. A future use may provide potential walk-in
service from the west side of the building and will use the west parking area for any required
parking.
Walz reviewed the specific standards. 14 -4C -2K a (1) states wherever possible and practical,
drive-through lanes shall be accessed from secondary streets, alleys, or shared cross access
drives. That is the case here, the access is through the Westport Shopping Center, and there is
no driveway from the property directly to Highway 1. The shared driveway to the highway is a
signalized intersection.
14 -4C -2K a (2) states to provide for safe pedestrian movement, the number and width of curb
cuts serving the use may be limited. No new curb cuts are requested, all curb cuts are already
in place.
14-40-2K a (3) notes an adequate number of stacking spaces must be provided to ensure traffic
safety is not compromised. What is required differs depending on uses. A minimum of six (6)
stacking spaces is recommended for drive-through facilities associated with eating
establishments and a minimum of four (4) stacking spaces for banking, pharmacies, and similar
nonfood related drive-through facilities. "Stacking spaces" shall be defined as being twenty feet
(20') in length and the width of a one lane, one-way drive. Walz suggested they move forward
with the assumption that the use here would likely be food related. The submitted site plan
shows space for two cars to stack between the pickup window (located at the west end of
building) and the order board with three additional stacking spaces at the order board. An island
dividing the entry to the drive-through lane may provide space for an additional car to stack
outside the shared drive that serves the east parking area. There is ample space for additional
stacking within the east parking area.
Board of Adjustment
October 11, 2017
Page 6 of 9
14 -4C -2K a (4) states sufficient on site signage and pavement markings shall be provided to
indicate direction of vehicular travel, pedestrian crossings, stop signs, no entrance areas, and
other controls to ensure safe vehicular and pedestrian movement. Staff is recommending that a
directional sign for the drive-through be provided at the east drive entrance to Lot 3 to direct
traffic directly to the drive-through lane.
14 -4C -2K b (1) discusses locations and in most Staff encourages drive-through lanes and
service windows to be located on the backside of the building, however, in this shopping center
the uses are oriented to the interior drives and due to the change in grade it would be screened
partially from the highway. Staff recommends adding additional S2 screening to minimize views
of the drive-through. Additionally this drive through lane is separated from areas of property
where there may be conflicts with pedestrians.
14 -4C -2K b (2) notes that drive-through lanes must be set back at least ten feet (10') from
adjacent lot lines and this will be setback more than 10 feet from the north (and nearest)
property line.
14 -4C -2K c discusses the character of the area and since this area is auto oriented Staff doesn't
see an issue with the drive-through circulating around the building, especially with the change in
grade and addition of additional screening. Stacking to the north and, if necessary, to the
northwest of the building would not conflict with pedestrian circulation. Maintaining stacking
space along the north side of the building also minimizes conflict with the use that shares the
site (Midtown Family Restaurant).
Staff is recommending approval of EXC17-00007 to allow a drive-through facility for property
located at 1075 Highway 1 West, subject to the following conditions:
• General compliance with the site plan submitted with additional recommendations of
staff for screening along the north and northwest portions of the site: S2 landscaping
along the north side of the drive-through lane and additional trees, including shade
trees along the northwest corner of the property. A final landscape plan must be
approved by planning staff.
• All lighting and signage for the property must comply with current code standards for
the zone in which the property is located.
• All modifications to the building must comply with current zoning code standards.
• For drive-through pick up of food or beverages, the drive-through lane should provide
no fewer than 5 stacking spaces along the north side of the building.
Chrischilles asked about the traffic flow Staff recommended. Which entrance would the cars
use, etc? Walz stated Staff's recommendation was for a sign to be placed to direct traffic into
the lot, drive past Midtown entrance and then circulate around the building and out on the west
side.
Chrischilles asked about the building remodel and what happens if a drive-through window is
not constructed. Walz said the special exception would then go away. She added that if this
location was in a zone not so auto -oriented Staff would probably not recommend approval
without knowing specific details on the tenant and building use.
Parker asked if special exceptions automatically expire if they are not picked up by a certain
time. Walz confirmed an applicant has six months to make progress on the project for which the
special exception was approved.
Board of Adjustment
October 11, 2017
Page 7 of 9
Weitzel asked if it changed the number of parking spaces required. Walz said the two
landscape areas may reduce the parking in the lot, however, there are more spaces in that lot
than the minimum requirement.
Weitzel inquired if there were any sidewalks to the site. Walz said it is possible, depending on
what they do with the site, they would be required to install additional sidewalks.
Soglin opened the public hearing and invited the applicant forward to address the Board.
Duane Musser (MMS Consultants) came forward and reminded the Board that at one time this
was a Red Lobster restaurant and once that use went away the building addition was added.
When it was the Red Lobster restaurant there was concrete and parking on the north side of the
building. They will have to remove some of the building to make room for the drive-through and
be able to maintain the 10 foot setback. Once they receive Board approval on this special
exception they will begin the site plan process. This space has been vacant for three plus
years, and has been marketed at its current office use with no success, and they have received
inquiries about a restaurant use so want to prepare the building and site for such a use. Musser
acknowledges the additional landscaping that will be needed and will meet those requirements.
Musser also noted that one of the applicants to this project is the owner of the Midtown Family
Restaurant so they are concerned about access and stacking of cars and will be making sure
the traffic and space is used in the best interest of all.
Parker asked if the current office space was two stories, and Musser confirmed it was. Musser
showed concept of how much of the building would be remodeled.
Chrischilles asked about traffic flow and how it will affect Midtown Family Restaurant. According
to the site plan there doesn't seem to be any option other than running cars in front of Midtown's
front entrance and feels that will be a problem with people walking from the parking area to the
restaurant entrance. Musser acknowledged the concerns but not knowing who the tenant would
be makes it hard to give specifics on what will happen. He reminded the Board that one of the
applicants of this special exception is one of the owners of the Midtown restaurant and has the
same concerns which is why they created a two-lane drive-through option to create more
stacking spaces.
Chrischilles asked if there has been any discussion of having the new business use the west
driveway entrance and running all the business on that west side. Musser said they could not
get a car window to the drive-through window coming from that side. Even if they could get the
space to make that work, it would then have users going into the business having to cross over
the drive-through traffic.
Soglin closed the public hearing.
Weitzel stated his initial concerns were similar to Chrischilles'. however learning that the owner
of Midtown is involved in this application and project eases the worry and figures they will do
what is best for them.
Chrischilles agreed, his strong objections were relieved when he heard the owner of Midtown
was also the owner and applicant on this portion of the building.
Parker noted that with the elevation change from the highway to the restaurant the light noise
will be minimized, especially with the addition of 8 -foot trees and 4 -foot bushes.
Board of Adjustment
October 11, 2017
Page 8 of 9
Chrischilles asked if there had been any consideration to extending the screening to the
stacking area. Walz noted it is steeper to west of the property and less likely to need screening.
Goeb moved to recommend approval of EXC17-00007 to allow a drive-through facility for
property located at 1075 Highway 1 West, subject to the following conditions:
• General compliance with the site plan submitted with additional
recommendations of staff for screening along the north and northwest portions
of the site: S2 landscaping along the north side of the drive-through lane and
additional trees, including shade trees along the northwest corner of the
property. A final landscape plan must be approved by planning staff.
• All lighting and signage for the property must comply with current code
standards for the zone in which the property is located.
• All modifications to the building must comply with current zoning code
standards.
For drive-through pick up of food or beverages, the drive-through lane should
provide no fewer than 5 stacking spaces along the north side of the building.
Weitzel seconded the motion.
Weitzel stated that regarding agenda item EXC17-00007 he concurs with the findings set forth
in the Staff report of October 11, 2017, and concludes the general and specific criteria are
satisfied. So unless amended or opposed by another Board member he recommends that the
Board adopt the findings in the Staff Report as our findings with acceptance of this proposal.
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:
None.
ADJOURNMENT:
Goeb moved to adjourn this meeting.
Weitzel seconded the motion.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 5-0
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
ATTENDANCE RECORD
NAME
TERM EXP.
9/14
9121
9130
10/12
11/9
12/14
1111
4112
5/10
6/14
7/12
10111
PARKER, BRYCE
1/1/2022
--
--
--
--
--
--
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
GOEB, CONNIE
1/1/2020
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
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
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
--- = Not a Member
01-02-18
3b(2)
MINUTES APPROVED
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL
NOVEMBER 9, 2017
MEMBERS PRESENT: Thomas Agran, Esther Baker, Kevin Boyd, Zach Builta, Gosia
Clore, Sharon DeGraw, G. T. Karr, Cecile Kuenzli, Pam Michaud,
Frank Wagner
MEMBERS ABSENT: Ginalie Swaim
STAFF PRESENT: Jessica Bristow, Bob Miklo
OTHERS PRESENT: Jerod Leupold, Julia Leupold, W.C. Leupold, Shawn Meaney,
Derek Perez, Alicia Trimble
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (become effective only after separate Council action)
CALL TO ORDER: Vice Chairperson Baker called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA:
There was none.
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS:
725 Summit Street.
Bristow said this house is in the Summit Street Historic District. She said that over the past few
years, it has had metal siding removed, and that has been replaced with cement board siding.
Bristow said that last year there was an addition put on the back.
Bristow stated that the current application is to remove the garage that was built with a 1993
certificate of appropriateness and replace it with a new garage. She said that because of the
fact that the garage was approved by the Commission, it is not an historic garage, so there is no
need to really put it under the same evaluation as an historic garage to remove it. Bristow said
that it can just be taken down, especially since it is going to be replaced with another garage.
Bristow showed an aerial view with the existing garage. She showed the approximate location
of the new garage. Bristow stated that when the 1993 garage was approved, it replaced an
original barn -type garage that was roughly in the planned location for the new garage.
Bristow showed the site plan, pointing out the house and Summit Street. She showed the
current, existing garage and the new garage location.
Bristow showed the front elevation. She said the garage will have board and batten siding.
Bristow said she discussed some of the barn -type and garage structures that are seen in the
College Hill and Summit Street neighborhoods with the architect. She said the architect took
that as inspiration for this.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
November 9, 2017
Page 2 of 14
Bristow said this will be a two -car garage, as opposed to the one -car garage that is currently
here. She said the shingles currently would not match the house, because the house has an
older kind of flat -style shingle, and when that does need to be replaced, staff would want them
to use an architectural shingle. Bristow said staff therefore suggested using that kind of shingle
on the new garage so that it does not need to be replaced later on.
Bristow said there is an overhead door on the north side. She said that the windows will be a
metal -clad, single hung that meets the guidelines. Bristow said that basically this meets the
guidelines, and if it did not need to replace another garage, could probably be a minor review
and staff review to approve the design of this garage. She said that staff does recommend
approval.
Meaney, the owner of the property, said that where one can clearly see the foundation of what
he assumes was a carriage house or barn of some sort, there was a structure there, although
he does not know if it was original to the property.
MOTION: Kuenzli moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project at
726 South Summit as presented in the application. Boyd seconded the motion. The
motion carried on a vote of 10-0 (Swaim absent).
817 Iowa Avenue
Bristow said this house in the College Hill Conservation District has undergone significant
changes over time. She showed what the house currently looks like and what it looked like prior
to the 2006 tornado. Bristow said there has been some window replacement and the whole
addition structure really altered the appearance of the house. She showed what the house
looked like right after the tornado.
Bristow said that one can see where there was a picture bay window and another pair of
windows. She showed where, once the house was rehabilitated after the tornado, it was left
with a single window and a pair of double hung windows below. Bristow said it is set up the way
it typically would be on a house of this style, but the upper window is actually a little bit
undersized.
Bristow said the applicant needs to install an egress window. She said that typically, code
doesn't require a change, but this would be for a new bedroom. Bristow said this is kind of a
unique case, as this has not been a bedroom recently, according to the Building Inspector.
Bristow said that in many cases, what staff ends up doing is approving a casement window with
some type of muntin bar so that it looks like a double hung window. She said those are usually
only approved for a basement or on the back of a property, partly because when a casement is
open, it does not really look right on an historic building.
Bristow said she has talked to the owners about putting in a bigger window that would meet
egress requirements and still be a double hung window. She showed a rough, Photoshop
mockup of what that might look like. Bristow added that staff really feels like this would be the
way to go as far as putting an egress window in this room.
Bristow said the new window would fit the proportions in an acceptable way. She said staff
recommends approval of putting in a double hung window as an egress window in this location.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
November 9, 2017
Page 3 of 14
MOTION: Wagner moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project at
817 Iowa Avenue as presented in the application. Clore seconded the motion. The
motion carried on a vote of 10-0 (Swaim absent).
318 Gilbert Street
Bristow stated that this property is on the southern end of the North Side Historic District. She
said that at the time of the survey, this was categorized as a non -historic house. Bristow said
the house was built in 1958, so that at this point, it would meet the 50 -year threshold to be
considered historic. She said that if the district were to be re-evaluated, this house would be
considered non-contributing to this district.
Bristow said the application is to replace the siding, and staff assumes replacement of the soffits
and fascia as well, with an aluminum smooth siding that would probably have the same wide
plank, lapped look to it. She said that as the Commission starts to look at mid-century, modern
houses, she does research on these types of houses.
Bristow said this house is almost pristine on the outside as far as having its original materials.
She said the house has original storm windows, original windows, a front stoop that matches the
stone veneer at the entry, is shaped like an L, and has an entrance that is recessed into that L
and actually recessed into the wall, which is very typical of this style of mid-century ranch home.
Bristow stated that having shutters on just one face and the configuration of the picture window
in the recess of the L are also typical features. As far as having its own historic integrity,
Bristow said this house is very intact.
Bristow said that at the same time, this house needs to be painted. She said that she has
spoken to the applicants, who have done some touchup work over time. Bristow said that she
visited the property in September, and it needs to be scraped and the rest of the paint needs to
be removed. She said that except for a few areas up near the gutters, she did not see any big
areas of rot or deteriorated siding. Bristow said the house is bound to have rot in a couple
places, but what she saw in places on the west and south that she could get to is basically
peeling paint.
Bristow said it needs to be made sure that the wood is the right moisture level. She said that
she does not know whether or not it needs to have linseed oil applied to it like any other wood
lap siding. Bristow said that once the wood has the right moisture level, if the applicants use a
high-quality oil-based primer and then paint the house, it should last for at least ten to 15 years.
Bristow said the proper methods must be used. She said that when she visited more recently, it
looked like someone had gone over this same wall in probably a primer or paint coat, which
covered up the paint but is not the kind of job that needs to be done to make the paint really
last.
Because the siding is not heavily deteriorated and is original siding, Bristow said that at this
point staff recommends that the owners paint the siding properly and not replace the siding.
She said that if the Commission decides to disallow the replacement of the siding, it will need to
form the motion in a positive but then vote it down. Bristow said the motion needs to be worded
as a positive, and Commission members may vote yes or no based on their findings.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
November 9, 2017
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Wagner asked about the siding and whether it was wood or something like medium density
fiberboard. Bristow confirmed that it is wood siding and she could see the grain in it.
Karr asked Bristow about the status of the property and type of district. Bristow confirmed that
this is a non-contributing property in an historic district not a conservation district. She said that
if the district were to be reviewed again, it would still be classified as non-contributing. Bristow
said that each district has a period of significance, and the current period of significance for this
district does not extend up to 1958. Miklo stated that the property would be considered historic
though, but it is from a different era.
Kuenzli said that if the Commission were to approve replacing the siding with aluminum siding,
people who were aware that this is in an historic district would say that they should be able to do
the same thing. Bristow commented that every property is evaluated for siding individually
anyway, whether it is historic or non -historic, contributing, or non-contributing.
Bill Leupold said he wanted to give the Commission the history of how he wound up with a
house in Iowa City. He said that in 1999, his son and daughter-in-law were living in an
expensive apartment in Iowa City. Bill Leupold said his son and daughter-in-law planned to buy
a house as a solution. He said he began house hunting, and eventually they bought the house
on Gilbert Street.
Bill Leupold said it became an issue as to whether this area should become an historic district.
He said that he was not in favor of that, because he felt there would be problems in terms of
maintaining this building as he wished. Bill Leupold said he received a call before the vote and
was told that since the property was non-contributing, he would not have to worry and could do
about anything he wants.
Bill Leupold recently found out that the house needed to be painted, and he instructed his son to
get it painted. They contacted three different painters. He said they could not find anyone to do
the work, so he decided to try siding. Bill Leupold said the siding will last a long time, will satisfy
the City, and will not require painters.
Jerod Leupold said that he has lived at the house for the past 18 years. He said that he called
the City several months ago and said he understood that the property is non -conforming/
noncontributing and asked if he needed to worry about anything as far as getting siding done.
Jerod Leupold said he got a call back with a message saying that he was not part of that, this is
non-contributing, go ahead and move along, and there were some suggestions, if he wanted to
call back.
Jerod Leupold said he did not need suggestions but just wanted to move forward and get this
done. He said he went through a couple of different people for bids. Jerod Leupold said that
when the contractor came to turn in the plans to City Hall was the first time he saw that there
was any sort of issue and there may be a problem.
Julia Leupold said that when it did not seem possible to paint this structure and there were all
kinds of roadblocks and they had contact from the City Inspector, Miklo, and Stan Laverrman
saying this doesn't look good, they understood that and knew that something needed to be
done. She said that when they could not find a painter, she said they needed to do something
and decided to do siding.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
November 9, 2017
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Julia Leupold said that at that point, Miklo referred her to Bristow, because Jerod Leupold had
already sent for vinyl siding. Julia Leupold said they did not put the vinyl on, but it was Jerod
Leupold's understanding that as a non-contributing and non -historic structure, the guidelines in
the handbook did not have to be followed.
Julia Leupold said that Jerod Leupold met with the Acri Siding Company several times and
spent a lot of time selecting a vinyl siding. She said that Miklo then informed them that vinyl
would not be a good thing, as it is a synthetic. Julia Leupold said she talked to Bristow over the
phone, who told her that a siding that is aluminum with a smooth surface, if it had the same
profile as the existing siding and is paintable, would be appropriate for this structure.
Julia Leupold said she then called the Acri Company to tell them that they wanted to comply
with this district. She said it is not their intent to not respect a historic place. Julia Leupold said
that the Acri Company spent some time and did find what they felt would be appropriate 1950s
siding. She discussed the history of aluminum siding and asked if aluminum would be
considered synthetic, as aluminum is on the periodic table.
Julia Leupold said the siding that the Acri Company found meets all the criteria that she was told
would be acceptable. She said they had been told that the stonework should not be covered.
Julia Leupold said that was fine with them, as they loved the stonework. She said she was also
told that the shutters should remain, and they were fine with that as well.
Julia Leupold said they have tried very hard to meet the guidelines that they were given. She
said previous discussion stated that the style encompassed by the North Side goes up to the
1930s. Julia Leupold said the handbook also references numerous housing styles and
structures, and this little house does not fit.
Julia Leupold said the handbook also really directs one to those historical architectures. She
asked what the implications are and if the district will stay at that era or if other architectural
styles may be added. Julia Leupold said that currently, little ranch houses are not part of that.
Bristow agreed that ranch houses are not listed in the current styles for that district. Regarding
whether they could be added, Bristow said she did not know but said that would be done as part
of a re-evaluation of the district. Julia Leupold said that re-evaluation has not been done at that
point in time, and Bristow said that is correct. Bristow said that is why this property is
considered non-contributing. Julia Leupold said that is her understanding and is why they have
moved forward the way that they have.
Julia Leupold said that she is a teacher. She said that when one looks at a school system, it is
actually very much like one of these historic districts. Julia Leupold said that through the
handbook or the grading system, everyone is pretty much expected to tow that line. She said
that as a teacher, however, her student body is not like that. Julia Leupold said she had all
kinds of students, some more capable, some requiring more effort, more time, and more caring.
She said this little house sits on the very fringe of this district. Julia Leupold said it is not
contributing.
Julia Leupold asked what they can do. She said she is not going to allow this little house to not
be cared for, but she may need to do it in a different way than the guideline in the handbook.
Julia Leupold said there are also clauses in the handbook that say that there are exceptions for
non -historic and non-contributing properties. She said that she believes siding is one of them.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
November 9, 2017
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Miklo said there is a section regarding siding that he could quote from when Julia Leupold has
finished her statement.
Julia Leupold said they are just trying to be the best caretakers that they can be and know how
to be to this home that they cherish. She said they have owned it and cared for it for 18 years.
Julia Leupold said they are asking the Commission for an exception to be flexible to allow the
use of a 1950s appropriate aluminum siding and meet all the criteria that they were given. She
thanked the Commission for its consideration of this issue.
Derek Perez said that he is a friend of Nick Acri, owner of Acri Siding Company, and also owns
a couple of businesses in town. Perez said that some of the conversation made it sound like
the Leupolds planned to replace the siding. He said that they plan to cover the siding, not
replace it. Perez said that one of the specifications, either the appeal or the thing, is that one
covers the siding and leaves the original in place, and this fits that mode.
Perez said that if one looks at the house, one can see where it is painted well. He said that the
house sits on the corner alley between the two buildings, and there is nothing there that can
protect that south side. Perez said that no matter how many times it is painted or what kind of
paint is used, the heat of the sun will hit it and the cool of the night will cool it down. He said
that is why the side that looks so poor is the south side, and this will continue to happen.
Perez said, with regard to historic homes, the Commission is trying to do the best that it can,
and the Leupolds are trying to do the best that they can with the house that they have, and they
want it to look right. Perez said that the 1950s aluminum siding is definitely within the historic
parameters of that era.
Perez said the moisture freezes in our climate and causes the paint to not stick. He said that
the Acri Company has put siding on many historic homes in the Quad Cities, and the Historic
Society in the Quad Cities has decided that the best way to protect the structures is to put siding
on it. Perez said that although the owners wanted to put vinyl siding on the house, they
changed to do something more historically accurate.
Regarding non-contributing, Perez said that some of the people at the meeting live in the area.
He said there are beautiful homes all the way throughout, but this isn't one of them. Perez said
it is a nice house, but it does not have ornate details and there is nothing to it that is any
different than a house over by Twain or over by his house on Brookside. He said it is not a
foursquare; there are not dentil applications.
Perez said he can see why the Commission does this; the houses on Summit Street look great,
but this is not one of them. He said the definition of historic is "famous or important in history."
Perez said that in Iowa City, this house is not famous or historic.
Perez added that there will be a difference in price between having to paint the house,
especially on the south side where it will have to be painted more often because it cannot be
shaded. He said the boundary lines show that it makes no sense that this house is in that area.
Perez said that at the corner of Bloomington and Linn, there is a beautiful house that is not in
the district at all.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
November 9, 2017
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Perez said he was reading through the historic information, and as they progress from 1992 to
2007, it says that every five to ten years it is supposed to be resurveyed. He asked when the
last time was that this district was resurveyed. Perez said if it has not been, the City is not
following its own rules.
Bristow said that if the district were resurveyed, this house would be found to be non-
contributing. Perez said the house is non-contributing, but then somehow it became historic.
Bristow said it is historic if it is over 50 years old; that is the definition that is used in historic
preservation. Perez said he understands that 50 years is the margin, but if there is ever
something that should be a reason for an exception, it is this house.
Miklo stated that at the 50 -year mark is when properties are considered to be potentially historic.
He said that characteristics are also looked at, such as the interest in mid-century, modern
architecture, and that is where this property falls.
Perez said that in the case of the North Side District, the idea is to protect houses from the
1930s era. Miklo said the plan is to protect a whole neighborhood. Perez stated that this house
doesn't have anything to do with the 1930s; it was built in 1958. He said that if one would go
through the course of the thing from when it was put into place in 2007, 50 years before that
would be 1957.
Miklo said that mid-century modern is now being recognized as an historic architectural design.
Perez asked if this house is important architecturally. Bristow said it is, because it is very
characteristic of its style and because it has its original materials.
Bristow said that part of the overriding goal of historic preservation is to preserve the historic
character of the property, whatever it is. She said that the historic character is usually defined
by the materials that are used, as well as the forms, and this has both.
Perez said the goal is to protect the historic materials, and by putting on something, to save the
taxpayers the money of having to repaint it over and over again, what they could do is put
something over it to protect it. He said that is part of it, and aluminum is not synthetic.
Bristow said there are also goals in historic preservation to not cover historic materials with
something that will then trap the moisture in and deteriorate them further.
Perez said there was a house there before this one. He said that if that house had been saved,
he could understand but said that this house was built in 1958. Perez said the Leupolds bought
it in 1999. He said he did not understand how this house got included, and the house on the
corner is not in a district.
Perez said the owners want to do the right thing. He said there is no way to shade the one side
of the house, and their best option is to cover it with aluminum siding. Perez said that if the
Commission doesn't want to make them come back and repaint this all the time... He said this is
just a little house that doesn't conform to the neighborhood. Perez said no one will be able to
say to the Commission that this house was allowed to have aluminum siding, because there is
no other house the same.
Perez asked why the house on the corner is not in a district. He asked why all of those houses
down across from Mercy Hospital are not in the district.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
November 9, 2017
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Miklo answered that those houses are in a commercial zone. He said there was a decision at
the time not to include the commercial properties in the historic district.
Agran asked if the image of the paint that is chipping off the side is from the south wall, the wall
that is shared with the little brick wall. Bristow said it is right around the corner. She said that in
first picture, the wall that has the deterioration is in the gable. Agran asked about the wall that is
right by the entryway. Bristow said it did not show that level of deterioration. She pointed out all
of the walls and the directions they face. Bristow said she did not include an overall shot of the
south side because of the weeds and overgrowth that is along there and blocks the view of that
side.
Agran said that, as he recalled, the wall with the greatest deterioration had a ten- to 15 -foot
privet hedge that was growing right up against it along that alley on the south -facing side of the
building. He said it was cut back a couple of years ago. Jerod Leupold confirmed that the
hedge was cut down about two years ago.
Karr asked how many times the Leupolds have painted the house in the 18 years they have
owned it. Bill Leupold responded that he painted it himself once about 15 years ago.
Baker said the subject came up about one of the painters not wanting to paint the house if it had
lead-based paint. She asked if the paint has been tested. Jerod Leupold said that a couple of
painters did stop by, with one testing the paint. He said they were not 100% sure but had
enough of a concern that there could be lead paint.
Kuenzli asked if any other painters were contacted because there are many painters in town,
not just three. Jerod Leupold said that after that, if someone asked how old the house was, he
got the same kind of reaction. He said that after going through a handful of folks, he figured he
would try a different option with siding.
Wagner asked, if the house were owner -occupied, could the paint be let go. Miklo replied that
the City cites owners as well as rental properties. He said the City does have a little more
leverage with a rental property, because the rental permit can be denied until the defect is
corrected.
Regarding being a landlord, Bill Leupold said that he receives no rent for the property. He was
shocked that he would be considered a landlord and need a rental permit when he doesn't get
rent out of it.
Regarding the paint job, Trimble said she sees paint deterioration. She said there is some gray
wood, which was probably painted over initially, which means that it probably had UV exposure,
and paint will not bind to that. Trimble said it does not look like there is an oil primer on there.
She said those are two of the biggest issues. Trimble said that when painting a house, one has
to make sure to use a very high solid content primer and paint. She said that most of them on
the market today are not very high. Trimble said that those factors will make the paint fail much
more quickly, and one needs to make sure to use at least two coats of paint, probably three in
weather and sun -prone areas.
Julia Leupold stated that the property to the north of this one is historic and happens to have
vinyl on it. She said she was visiting with the owner of the property: Prime Rentals [actually
Prestige Properties]. Julia Leupold said the owner agreed that the house had vinyl siding but
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
November 9, 2017
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said it was installed before this was an historic district. Julia Leupold said they discussed his
other rental units and how often they need to be repainted. She said the neighbor told her that
he has the properties on a seven-year rotation to paint, and every five years he feels like they
need to go in and touch up the paint. Julia Leupold said he told her that he pays $40 per gallon
for primer. She said the City is very fortunate to have a business owner who is doing that.
DeGraw asked if there are painters in Iowa City who will work with lead paint. Bristow
responded that the City has a list with at least ten painters who will work with lead paint. She
agreed that when siding is grayed or has been exposed to LIV rays, it has to be sanded and the
wood has to be properly prepared. Bristow said that when the proper steps are taken, the paint
job should last several years.
Kuenzli said that there are two things that direct the Leupolds' wish to use aluminum siding.
She said that it seems to have started with the difficulty of finding a painter who would do the
job. Kuenzli said that then equally or maybe even more important, seems to be the point of
view of the ease of maintenance, considering the distance away that the owners live. Kuenzli
said that aluminum siding is not maintenance free. She said that when Bristow showed the
pictures, she said the siding looks to be in pretty good condition, except around the gutters
where there is some rot. Kuenzli said that with aluminum siding on it, one cannot see when it is
rotting behind the siding.
Kuenzli added that a friend of hers who has aluminum siding on her house has been plagued
with wasps in the house and could not find the source. Kuenzli said that two companies looked
for the source and finally, someone found a tiny hole in the second story of the house in the
aluminum siding where wasps had gotten down. She said that between the aluminum siding
and the exterior wall of the house, they removed a wasp nest that was five feet long and two
feet wide. It is not completely maintenance free. Kuenzli said that with any siding, where there
is any opening, anything can get in there whether it is moisture or insects and one cannot see it.
MOTION: Wagner moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the siding
replacement project at 318 North Gilbert Street as presented in the application. Builta
seconded the motion.
Agran said that from his own perspective and his own familiarity with this property, he does not
believe that the siding is deteriorating because the paint just won't hold up. He said there are
two south -facing walls here - one is in proximity to very overgrown vegetation and was for a long
time. Agran said he is sure the deterioration is related a lot to that, especially since the other
side does not have that issue. He said it could be due to the different size of the eaves, but he
just does not quite believe that.
Agran said he thinks that the wood seems to be in fine condition and just needs to be painted.
He said a side of him feels that this is a relatively small house and that painting and maintaining
this house is not really a big deal. Agran said it might be a big deal though, if the landlord lives
a long way away.
Agran said that if the property owner being referred to is Michael Olivera from Prestige
Properties, he owns a lot of properties in the neighborhood. Agran agreed that he does a very
good job of maintaining his properties, and part of that maintenance and responsibility to the
property is touching up the paint and repainting. He said that like all things on a structure, they
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
November 9, 2017
Page 10 of 14
are not maintenance free, just like the gutters, which as shown in the picture are not properly
attached.
Agran said that side of the argument he does not really agree with. At the same time, He said
that whether or not he personally agrees that this is the correct financial decision or the correct
decision for the integrity of the house, the structure is listed as non-contributing. Agran said that
whether or not it is historic now, it is surveyed currently as non-contributing.
Miklo read the section from the exception in the guidelines that addresses that when
considering whether replacement siding should be allowed: "Non-contributing and non -historic
structures should be evaluated on a case by case basis to determine the architectural merit of
the property under consideration. Some non-contributing and non -historic structures were
classified according to an architectural style or construction period inconsistent with the district
but nevertheless remain important properties and worthy of preservation."
Miklo said the whole point of that paragraph is to say that perhaps this is not a Victorian house
that fits into the character of the district. He said the question the Commission should ask and
answer in making this decision is if this is a good example of mid-century modern buildings -
ones that the Commission wants to preserve with a degree of historic materials. Miklo said he
thinks that is the key point in the whole discussion.
Agran said that if this were his property, this is not the choice he would make. He said that he
does not think that the cited causes are actually the causes for the deterioration here. Agran
said he thinks the owners make a compelling case that for whatever authenticity this property
has that using the suggested material is one that would have been widely available at the time
the building was constructed. He said that while he does not agree with that choice, he thinks it
is a compelling argument.
Boyd said he looks at the Commission's job of looking at these properties as part of a larger
district as telling the story of that neighborhood. He said that should one do a reassessment
that post-war infill and 50s homes that were added and mid -modern homes that were added are
likely going to be part of that history of these neighborhoods and these districts. Boyd said that
preserving them as they would have been and as they were seems to be part of what the
Commission is trying to accomplish in terms of preserving the nature of these houses that are
historic by definition now, at 50 years, and in a reassessment certainly could be contributing to a
larger story of what the neighborhood and what the districts look like.
Agran said this is not an enameled steel house like the one on Clark Street. He said that while
that story is correct, that there may be five houses in the North Side that are part of that district,
but if that story has not been established as part of a survey, to say if surveyed these would be
part of that story is very different than if the survey had been done.
Miklo said that is why the guidelines call for a case by case basis review of properties coming
before the Commission. Agran said that any property over time, if contributing or non-
contributing, is taken all individually as they are now, not as they were surveyed, and Miklo
confirmed this. Bristow said that a recent example is a house on Brown Street that was listed as
non-contributing and when the owner put in an application they discovered that through
changes to previous alterations the house is now consider contributing to the district.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
November 9, 2017
Page 11 of 14
Karr said there was a very similar property on Summit Street. He said that about 15 years ago
he was in the applicant's position. Karr said there was a duplex that he wanted to put siding on.
He said it was ultimately decided that it would not be allowed, because of similar reasons, it was
still in a condition to paint. Karr said the decision may have been different if the property had
been in a conservation district. Miklo said there is a little more latitude in a conservation district.
The motion failed to carry on a vote of 0-10 (Swaim absent).
REPORTS ON CERTIFICATES ISSUED BY CHAIR AND STAFF:
Certificate of No Material Effect - Chair and Staff Review.
523 Rundell Street.
Bristow said this project involved the replacement of shingles, replacing flat shingles with
architectural shingles.
701 Oakland Avenue.
Bristow said the flat part of the roof on the addition must be redone.
519 North Gilbert Street.
Bristow said the porch roof on this house is being reconstructed, and the owners may be
redoing the roof material on the one-story addition on the back.
317 Fairchild Street.
Bristow said this house has a new owner who is trying to get tax credits. Bristow said the
internal gutters will be repaired, along with some soffit and fascia repair.
Minor Review - Staff Review.
613 Grant Street.
Bristow said this house has its original siding on the front, with some metal siding on the sides
and the back. She said the owners are removing the metal siding on the back to make it match
the front. Bristow said the sides will be done eventually.
613 Grant Street.
Bristow said the owners are putting a small deck on the back of the house.
420 Ronalds Street.
Bristow said that the owners are replacing a tiny, first floor casement window with a double hung
window in the back on an addition. She said it does not appear to even originally be a
casement window. Bristow added that the four little windows in the attic, which are inward -
opening hopper windows, will be replaced with awning -type windows.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
November 9, 2017
Page 12 of 14
314 Church Street.
Bristow said there is an addition on the top with a modern, full -light door. She said the owner
will put a new, more appropriate door and storm door on it.
Intermediate Review - Chair and Staff Review.
317 Fairchild Street.
Bristow said that the curb cut here is extremely tiny. She said the owners have a big problem
with people parking near the drive and blocking them in. Bristow said the owner is going to
widen it just a little bit so that one can park in the driveway and not hit the wall with the car door.
314 Summit Street.
Bristow said this involves the project that was approved by the Commission. She said that the
owners actually could not build the garage because of the accessory apartment. Bristow said
that it is a zoning issue in that the house has to be owner -occupied in order to have an
accessory apartment. Miklo said there could be a finished space up there, but it could not have
a kitchen or bathroom.
Bristow said the owner has now revised the plans to something much more standard.
CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES FOR OCTOBER 12,2017:
MOTION: Michaud moved to approve the minutes of the Historic Preservation Commission's
October 12, 2017 meeting, as written. Clore seconded the motion. The motion carried on a
vote of 10-0 (Swaim absent).
COMMISSION INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION:
Preservation Iowa Membership.
Miklo said that a flyer from Preservation Iowa, which is seeking members was included in the
meeting packet. He said it is a fairly low-cost membership, and the group does a lot in terms of
education and advocacy for preservation across the State.
Local Landmark Process Update.
Bristow said that staff is proceeding forward with some of the local landmarks that the
Commission earmarked about two years ago. She said that owner meetings will be held next
week. Bristow said the properties are 213 East Market Street, 319 East Bloomington Street,
504 East Bloomington Street, 410/412 North Clinton Street, 412 North Dubuque Street, and
1029 North Dodge Street.
Miklo said that presentations to the property owners will be made on Wednesday at 5:30. He
said that Commission members are invited to attend.
Bristow said staff is also proceeding forward with a small historic district south of Burlington
Street: the Clinton Street and Railroad Historic District. She said it would include the
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
November 9, 2017
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passenger railroad station, which is already a local landmark and on the National Register.
Bristow said it would include the houses just along Clinton Street, so it would encompass the
depot, the small hotel right across the street, the neighboring next two houses, the larger house
on the corner, and the brick house across the street. She said that staff will be meeting with
these owners on Thursday at 5:30. Bristow invited interested Commission members to attend.
Miklo said the next step after that meeting would be a public hearing before the Commission,
possibly in December or January.
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting was adjourned at 6:43 p.m.
Minutes submitted by Anne Schulte
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2017-2018
NAME
TERM
EXP.
11/10
12/8
1/12
2/9
3/9
4/13
5/11
6/15
7/31
8/10
9/14
10/12
11/9
AGRAN, THOMAS
7/1120
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
BAKER, ESTHER
7/1/18
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
BOYD, KEVIN
7/1120
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
BUILTA, ZACH
7/1/19
X
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
CLORE, GOSIA
7/1/20
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
DEGRAW, SHARON
7/1/19
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
KARR, G. T.
7/1/20
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
X
X
X
X
X
KUENZLI, CECILE
7/1/19
X
X
01E
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
O/E
O/E
X
O/E
X
MICHAUD, PAM
711/18
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
0/E
X
X
X
SWAIM, GINALIE
711/18
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
WAGNER, FRANK
7/1/18
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
01E
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
— = Not a Member
01-02-18
10W29 IOWA CITY 3b(3)
fael� PUBLIC LIBRARY
123 S. Linn St. • Iowa City, IA 52240
�� )Inn GMg•no, 31G156))Iq•w 31#)%),W •wwrYpnp
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
November 16, 2017
FINAL APPROVED
Members Present: Diane Baker (in at 5:03 pm) Janet Freeman, Adam Ingersoll, Carol Kirsch, Robin
Paetzold, Jay Semel, Monique Washington.
Members Absent: John Beasley, Kellee Forkenbrock.
Staff Present: Terri Byers, Maeve Clark, Susan Craig, Kara Logsden, Patty McCarthy, Elyse Miller, Brent
Palmer, Angela Pilkington.
Guests Present: None.
Call Meeting to Order. President Semel called the meeting to order at 5:01 pm.
Public Discussion. None.
Approval of Minutes.
The minutes of the October 26, 2017 regular meeting of the Library Board of Trustees were reviewed. A
motion to approve the regular Minutes was made by Freeman and seconded by Kirsch. Motion carried
6/0.
The minutes of the November 4, 2017 special meeting of the Library Board of Trustees were reviewed. A
motion to approve the special minutes was made by Ingersoll and seconded by Freeman. Motion
carried 6/0.
Items to be discussed.
Computer Lab Remodeling Project. Craig said the project is now out for bid. Two respectable,
responsible local companies attend the pre-bid meeting, which is good. Semel asked how much the
project will cost. Craig estimated $160,000, with $100,000 coming from the City and the rest from gifts.
This does not include equipment or furniture.
Policy Review: 808: Art Advisory Committee. This is a regularly scheduled policy review. No changes are
proposed.
Policy Review: 810: Discussion Rooms. This is a regularly scheduled policy review. Policy update includes
specific language about setting time limits. The current time limit has been working well. Semel asked
what precipitated the change. Clark said there many people were turned away before. She noted there
have been few complaints and this seems fair to most people. Kirsch asked about the time limit, which
is two hours. A motion to approve the policy as amended was made by Kirsch and seconded by
Freeman. Motion carried 7/0.
Policy 809: Library Use Policy. This is not a regularly scheduled policy review. The City Equity Director
requested changes to the policy to include bullying language regarding teens and gender to meet a
national recommendation. We added bedbug language at this time, too. Freeman asked how we could
know about a bedbug infestation when materials or people come into the library. Craig said you can't
know and have to find it in the materials. We have a company with a bedbug sniffing dog visit the
library quarterly or as needed. It is expensive but it must be done. Paetzold asked how a renter or a
minor can obtain proof that a bedbug infestation has been cured. Logsden said landlords in Iowa City
are responsible for their properties. Paetzold is concerned about access and Ingersoll is similarly
concerned. This policy has quite a specific remedy, whereas other parts of the policy do not, e.g., other
hygiene issues. Baker said it is not necessarily the library's problem if a person cannot be in the library,
it is a community library and people need to know it is safe to be here. Ingersoll does not care for the
placement of the language in the policy. He thinks staff should have more discretion and the policy is
aggressive. Paetzold asked how schools respond to bedbugs and would like more information about
what other libraries and schools are doing. Craig wants to protect the collection as much as possible
and removing specific language about library access following an incident does not mean procedures
might not result in the same outcome. Ingersoll believes discretion benefits the library in this instance.
A motion to approve the policy and accept new language in 809.201 and 809.406 and rejecting
suggested language in 809.602 was made by Paetzold and seconded by Ingersoll. Motion carried 7/0.
Staff Reports.
Director's Report: Craig reminded members there is a Special Meeting on Monday, December 4, 2017 at
5:00 pm to approve the bid on the Computer Lab work and enable us to enter into a contract with the
approved bidder. Craig invited members to attend the Arts & Crafts Bazaar on Saturday, December 2,
from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. She also extended an invitation for Board members to attend Inservice Day
on December 8. Craig informed the Board that a new telephone system was installed City-wide. The
switchover from the 15 year-old system occurred on Veteran's Day.
Departmental Reports.
Adult Services. No comments.
Community & Access Services. Logsden said the Bookmobile winter/spring schedule is coming
together. The UI College of Medicine courtyard will be a new site on Tuesdays over the lunch hour. We
added two stops to coordinate with the mobile food pantry. Paetzold asked if borrowing periods match
the visit schedule to these sites. Logsden said this would happen. Logsden wanted members to know
there are typically 6-8 regular visits to daycares on rotating Wednesdays that don't appear on the
official Bookmobile schedule.
Development Office Report. The Window newsletter, our giving issue, will be in mailboxes today or
tomorrow. McCarthy stated 60% of financial contributions are made by people in November and
December. She thanked Baker and Paetzold for helping out at Prairie Lights on Sunday. Paetzold asked
if the HyVee wine fundraiser was still an event. McCarthy said it will take place in February. Paetzold
asked if we have approached Wilson's Orchard.
Spotlight on the Collection. No comments.
Miscellaneous. No comments. A new confidentiality and privacy bookmark was distributed at the
meeting. This is a continuation of our efforts to keep patrons informed about confidentiality and
privacy, a goal of our strategic plan. Semel asked how many confidentiality issues come up in a year.
Craig said frontline staff spend more time educating people about privacy and confidentiality than she
does. In response to a question, Craig said she has never responded to a request from the FBI and very
few from local law enforcement to see patron records.
President's Report. Semel said a smaller group is preferred for the director search committee; a
maximum of 3-4 Board members, someone from the City Attorney's office and someone from City
Human Resources. Semel will email Board members about this. Craig said the first task is to select a
consultant. She will have a draft RFQ for the consultant search at the December Board meeting. Semel
asked Craig to outline a timeline for the director search process.
Announcements from Members. None.
Committee Reports. Foundation Members. No meeting.
Communications. None.
Disbursements.
The MasterCard expenditures for October, 2017 were reviewed. A motion to approve the disbursements
for October, 2017 was made by Ingersoll and seconded by Paetzold. Motion carried 7/0.
Set Agenda Order for December Meeting.
Adjournment. A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Ingersoll and seconded by Freeman.
Motion carried 7/0. President Semel closed the meeting at 5:49 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Elyse Miller
Board or Commission: ICPL Board of Trustees
ATTENDANCE RECORD
12 Month
KEY:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
MeetingDate
Name
Term
Expiration
3/23/17
04/27/17
5/25/17
6/22/17
7/27/17
8/24/17
9/28/17
10/26/17
11/06/17
11/16/17
12/4/17
12/21/17
Diane Baker
6/30/19
O/E
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
x
x
X
x
John Beasley
6/30/21
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
O
Kellee
Forkenbrock
6/30/23
Not on Board
O/E
X
X
X
O
O/E
x
X
Janet Freeman
6/30/19
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Adam Ingersoll
6/30/21
X
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
O
X
X
O/E
O/E
Carol Kirsch
6/30/23
Not on Board
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
Tom Martin
6/30/17
X
X
X
X
Off Board
Robin Paetzold
6/30/17
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Meredith
Rich -Chappell
6/30/17
X
X
X
X
Off Board
Jay Semel
6/30/19
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Monique
Washington
6/30/21
X
X
X
X
O/E
O
X
X
O
X
X
O
KEY:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
01-02-18
IOWA CITY 3b(4)
f! PUBLIC LIBRARY
123 S. Linn St. • Iowa City, IA 52240
cm Sumn Cmig.n 3143WSM-Fu3l93WS4gS•www PION
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Minutes of the Special Meeting
December 4. 2017
FINAL APPROVED
Members Present: Diane Baker, John Beasley, Kellee Forkenbrock, Janet Freeman, Carol Kirsch,
Robin Paetzold, Jay Semel, Monique Washington.
Members Absent: Adam Ingersoll.
Staff Present: Susan Craig, Elyse Miller, Patty McCarthy.
Guests Present: None.
Call Meeting to Order. President Semel called the meeting to order at 5:00 pm.
Public Discussion. None.
Items to be discussed.
Computer Lab Remodel Project. Craig is pleased with the bid. Kirsch and Beasley wondered why there is
such a discrepancy in the bids. Craig does not know why the bids were so different. Beasley said he
knows Selzer Werderitsch to be a very reputable company. A motion to approve the resolution
awarding the bid for the construction of the Computer Lab renovation to Selzer Werderitsch was made
by Baker and seconded by Kirsch. Motion carried 8/0.
Adjournment. A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Freeman, and seconded by Forkenbrock.
Motion carried 8/0. President Semel closed the meeting at 5:04 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Elyse Miller
Board or Commission: ICPL Board of Trustees
ATTENDANCE RECORD
12 Month
KEY:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
MeetingDate
Name
Term
Expiration
3/23/17
04/27/17
5/25/17
6/22/17
7/27/17
8/24/17
9/28/17
10/26/17
11/06/17
11/16/17
12/4/17
12/21/17
Diane Baker
6/30/19
0/E
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
x
x
x
x
x
x
John Beasley
6/30/21
X
X
X
X
X
X
x
X
X
O/E
x
O
Kellee
Forkenbrock
6/30/23
Not on Board
O/E
X
X
X
0
O/E
X
X
Janet Freeman
6/30/19
X
X
=X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Adam Ingersoll
6/30/21
X
X
X
X
0/E
O/E
X
0
X
X
O/E
0/E
Carol Kirsch
6/30/23
Not on Board
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
Tom Martin
6/30/17
X
X
X
X
Off Board
Robin Paetzold
6/30/17
X
X
X
X
O/E TX
X
X
X
X
X
X
Meredith
Rich -Chappell
6/30/17
X
X
X
X
Off Board
Jay Semel
6/30/19
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Monique
Washington
6/30/21
X
X
T
X
X
O/E
0
X
X
O
X
X
0
KEY:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
MINUTES APPROVED
NOVEMBER S, 2017
ROBERT A. LEE RECREATION CENTER — MEETING ROOM B
Members Present: Suzanne Bentler, Larry Brown, Clay Claussen, Angie Smith, Joe Younker
Members Absent: Wayne Fett, Cara Hamann, Lucie Laurian, Jamie Venzon
Staff Present: Juli Seydell Johnson, Chad Dyson
Others Present: Bruce Bedell, Del Holland
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):
None
OTHER FORMAL ACTION:
Moved by Younker, seconded by Bentler, to approve the October 12, 2017 minutes as written.
Passed 5-0 (Felt. Hamann, Laurian & Venzon absent).
PUBLIC DISCUSSION
Bruce Bedell, member of the public, was present tonight as the spokesperson for an ADHOC group that
uses Thornberry Off -Leash Dog Park on a regular basis. They have requested that the City consider the
installation of solar powered lights at the dog park. They have offered to raise money to assist in funding
such a project. He further noted that it would enhance the park by allowing participants to use the facility
after 5 p.m. during this time of year when it gets dark earlier in the evening.
Dyson reported that the department has, in fact, already been researching the possibility of adding solar
lighting to the dog park. He noted that the department has a group of AmeriCorps volunteers doing research
on pathway lighting. Brown asked if this might be something that staff would consider placing in other
parks. Seydell Johnson said not at this time, however, she feels that Thornberry Off -Leash Dog Park is a
great location to start with. She said that staff has also received requests for lighting at Rita's Ranch Dog
Park. Younker asked if the ADHOC group included neighbors of the park. Bedell said it does not include
neighbors, but includes users of the park. Claussen thanked Bedell for coming to the meeting and asked to
have this item added to a future Commission agenda.
PRESENTATION — BICYCLE SAFETY DISCUSSION -SARAH WALZ &KENT RALSTON
METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION (MPO):
Seydell Johnson invited MPO staff to present the Bicycle Master Plan to Commission after the
Commission had discussed and expressed concerns regarding bicycle safety in the community. Kent
Ralston, Executive Director of MPO, shared that the City worked with RDG Consultants in creating a
Bicycle Master plan. The plan was adopted by City Council this summer. He said that the impetus for
creating the plan is that City Council wants to achieve a gold -level designation by next year from the
League of American Bicyclists. Iowa City currently sits at a silver level. The plan goals include
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
November 8, 2017
Page 2 of 5
engineering, education, encouragement, evaluation, enforcement and equity. Sarah Walz, Assistant
Transportation Planner, presented a slide show summarizing the Bicycle Master Plan to the Commission.
The presentation is attached. Ralston and Walz announced that the City of Iowa City is producing a
series of short videos that focus on bicycle safety and education. These are a follow-up to the Bicycle
Master Plan.
Smith asked if staff has considered placing bike racks or bike "fix -it" stations in low-income
neighborhoods. Walz noted that it has been difficult to keep the bike repair stations operating and as it is
a rather expensive option. There has been some consideration to having them available within the school
offices where there can be oversight of the items.
Younker expressed his ongoing safety concern where the Creekside trail crosses First Avenue. He noted
there has always been confusion on the part of motorists as to whether they are to stop or proceed through
the intersection. Ralston said that there was a study done on placing yield ahead signs which increased
yielding by 30%. Walz said that there will be a video produced that will address bicycling on sidewalks
and where to cross from on -street to off-street etc. Younker also suggested that perhaps staff look at
widening the islands on First Avenue, as it currently will not allow a bicycle with a child trailer to fit. To
watch the "Bike Shorts" videos and to see the entire Bicycle Master plan, go to
httos://www.icizov.ore/i)roiect/iowa-citv-bicvcle-master-Dlan
CIP & OPERATING BUDGET UPDATE — JULI SEYDELL JOHNSON
Seydell Johnson referred to the CIP/Operating Budget Update document included in the commission
packets. She explained that the front page includes the capital improvement project requests as well as
the recommended completion date of each per the master plan. It also includes the district that each
occurs as well as the CIP budgeted amount. She said overall the department did pretty well with only a
few projects being shifted. These recommendations will go before Council in January. Seydell Johnson
said that the department will move forward with getting final designs for Creekside Park, Cardigan Park,
Riverfront Crossings restroorrs and shelters. Claussen asked how the property tax rollback has affected
the City budget. Younker suggested that the Commission invite Dennis Bockenstedt, Director of Finance,
to present at a future meeting.
ASHTON HOUSE USE — JULI SEYDELL JOHNSON
Seydell Johnson reviewed a report with Commission that includes past Ashton House use as well as a
proposed marketing plan. Since completion of the landscaping, arbor and patio, there has been a slight
increase in interest. Staff has recently posted a Facebook ad, which has received a lot of interest with over
5000 people reached and 500 engagement views (sharing and commenting). Seydell Johnson is asking
the Commission to provide feedback regarding marketing and ideas for possible future use of the Ashton
House. Brown asked if a person can rent the facility overnight. Seydell Johnson said that no overnight
rentals are allowed. She further explained that because it is a house that is in a neighborhood, there cannot
not be any noise after 10 p.m. There is also no furniture in the facility to accommodate overnight stays.
Smith thought that it may be a good opportunity to open it up for overnight rentals as there seems to be a
high demand for such in Iowa City. Younker suggested that there may be an opportunity for advertising
through the bar association, downtown district and others. He also thought that adding some furnishings
may make it more appealing. Bentler suggested perhaps making it more of an active park by providing
lawn games etc., and tying it into City Park somehow. Seydell Johnson noted that Project Green has an
office at the house that is staffed part-time. They have shared some good ideas regarding painting and
other changes within the house.
DRONES IN PARKS — CHAD DYSON
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
November S, 2017
Page 3 of 5
Dyson has an intern researching this topic. He stated that there is an increase in drone usage as a hobby.
As such, staff expects there to be more drone usage requests in parks etc. This may present a concern,
especially for those with cameras attached. He explained that municipalities can put ordinances in place
governing the use of drones. He said that some cities limit them to certain parks, which may be a
consideration for Iowa City. Beyond privacy issues, the safety of users of the parks also needs to be
considered. He said that Cedar Rapids is close to adopting a drone policy so staff will likely consult with
them. The staff will continue research and development of a drone use policy. The City Attorney's office
will review any policies that are created. Bender asked if the department has been receiving complaints of
drone usage. Dyson said not yet, however, the department wants to take a proactive approach. Staff will
continue research and discussion on this topic.
REPORT ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF
Recreation Division Superintendent Report — Chad Dyson
Dyson announced that the department held its 271 Halloween Carnival in October. The event was
moved to Mercer Park Aquatic Center due to the construction taking place at the Robert A. Lee
Center. The turn -out was great.
• Dyson said that the Dog Health Fair held on October 22 at Thornberry was a success with 110
visitors and 16 vendors participating.
Dyson reported that the non-competitive swim team launched this fall and had their fust swim
meet. This team was adapted to help support Iowa City Eels and offer some of the kids that are
not quite ready for competitive swimming but have outgrown swim lessons to have the
opportunity to continue. The idea is to offer a program to nontraditional populations. Smith noted
that she had made a suggestion 15 years ago for a similar program. She is very happy to see it
being offered now. Dyson said that while it is small now, the staff hopes to see the program grow
in the future.
• Dyson announced that the Robert A. Lee Recreation Center will be closed for public use from
December 11 through January 7 for various projects in the facility including resurfacing of the
gym floor, painting of the pool, installation of the handrails to the stairway and finishing up the
office and restroom construction projects currently taking place.
Parks Division Superintendent Report — Zac Hall
• In Hall's absence, Seydell Johnson reported that Hall continues working towards creating job
descriptions, interviewing and hiring for two forestry positions.
Parks & Recreation Directors Report — Juli Seydell Johnson
• Seydell Johnson announced that the December 13 Commission meeting will be held at The Park
Lodge at Terry Trueblood Recreation Area due to ongoing construction at the Robert A. Lee
facility.
• Seydell Johnson noted that there will be new carpeting and benches added to the upstairs lobby of
the Recreation Center.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
November 8, 2017
Page 4 of 5
• Seydell Johnson, Hall, other City Staff, as well as commission members Claussen and Younker,
met with Congressman Loebsack and gave a tour of the Riverfront Crossings project. She said
that Loebsack expressed and great deal of interest and hopes that interest will spread.
CHAIRS REPORT
Claussen noted that he recently had a discussion with a friend regarding the future of the Senior Center
and wondered if there was any discussion about coordinating efforts with the Recreation Center. Seydell
Johnson said that it has been discussed extensively in the past and she would not rule out anything for the
future. Younker, who was on an ADHOC committee in 2014 for the Senior Center, said that there was a
lot of concern voiced by users of the senior center in doing so. At that time, Council took all
recommendations under advisement to reassess in the future. Smith noted that there are more programs
that mix preschoolers with senior citizens. She feels this provides a healthier community, further stating
that senior citizens are an untapped resource in the community.
ADJOURNMENT:
Moved by Bentler, seconded by Brown, to adjourn the meeting at 6:06 p.m. Motion passed 5-0
(Fett, Hamann, Laurian and Venzon absent).
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
November 8, 2017
Page 5 of 5
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused
NAME
'�"
H
00
rl
00
N
'"
7
~
N
M
N
00
TERM
N
N
M
o
o
EXPIRES
Suzanne
1/1/17
O/E
X
NM
X
X
X
0
X
X
X
X
X
Bentler
Larry Brown
1/1/18
X
X
NM
O/E
X
X
LQ
X
O/E
X
X
X
Clay
1/1/18
X
X
NM
X
X
X
LQ
X
X
X
X
X
Claussen
Maggie
1/1/17
X
*
Elliott
Wayne Fett
1/1/19
X
X
NM
X
X
X
LQ
X
X
X
X
O/E
Cara
1/1/20
X
O/E
NM
X
X
X
LQ
X
X
X
X
O/E
Hamann
Lucie
1/1/10
X
X
NM
X
X
X
LQ
*
O/E
X
O/E
O/E
Laurian
Paul Roesler
1/1/18
O/E
*
Angie Smith
1/1/18
*
*
*
O/E
X
X
LQ
X
X
X
O/E
X
Jamie
1/1/20
*
X
NM
X
X
X
LQ
X
X
X
X
O/E
Venzon
Joe Younker
1/1/20
X
X
NM
O/E
X
X
LQ
X
X
X
X
X
NM = No meeting LQ = No meeting due to lack of quorum
* = Not a member at this time
r CITY OF IOWA CITY 01
^r �h MEMORANDUM 3bb(6),6,
Date: Dec 11, 2017
To: Mayor and City Council -
From: Bob Miklo, Planning & Zoning Commission
Re: Recommendations from Planning & Zoning Commission
At their December 7, 2017 meeting the Planning & Zoning Commission approved the November 2
minutes with the following recommendation to the City Council:
By a vote of 7-0 the Commission recommends approval of an amendment to City Code
Sections 14 -5B -8E Sign Standards in the Central Business zones, and the South
Downtown, University, Central Crossings, Park, South Gilbert and East Side Mixed Use
subdistricts to allow plastic trim cap letters for signs above the fifth story.
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
NOVEMBER 2, 2017 — 7:00 PM — FORMAL MEETING
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Ann Freerks, Mike Hensch, Phoebe Martin, Max Parsons, Mark
Signs, Jodie Theobald
MEMBERS ABSENT: Carolyn Dyer
STAFF PRESENT: Sara Hektoen, Jann Ream
OTHERS PRESENT:
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
By a vote of 7-0 the Commission recommends approval of an amendment to City Code
Sections 14 -5B -8E Sign Standards in the Central Business zones, and the South Downtown,
University, Central Crossings, Park, South Gilbert and East Side Mixed Use subdistricts to allow
plastic trim cap letters for signs above the fifth story.
Freerks called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
CODE AMENDMENT:
Discussion of amendment to City Code Sections 14-513-8E Sign Standards in the Central
Business zones, and the South Downtown, University, Central Crossings, Park, South Gilbert
and East Side Mixed Use subdistricts to allow plastic trim cap letters for signs above the fifth
story and discussion of internal illumination on upper stories of high-rise buildings.
Ream noted that the Commission requested more information on illumination on the high-rise
building signs. So Ream prepared a map to show where the existing high-rise buildings are and
also where others are proposed or already built. The map shows how the high-rise buildings
are concentrated in the downtown and south downtown Riverfront Crossings area. Next Ream
spent time walking the areas and driving in her car to get an idea of the viewsheds for these
high-rise buildings from surrounding neighborhoods. She showed some Google images (not all
completely up-to-date) and pictures she took herself to give the Commission some idea of what
the viewsheds look like. Ream found that the buildings skyline are exclusively visual from the
arterial streets (Burlington, Gilbert, Dubuque, Clinton and Washington Streets). There is a small
area while on Riverside Drive where one can look across the river and see the buildings. Ream
also noted that due to the topography (and vegetation) of the area and the existing buildings in
the area the viewsheds of the high-rise buildings can change drastically (from completely
Planning and Zoning Commission
November 2, 2017 — Formal Meeting
Page 2 of 4
obscured to viewable in half a block). Ream added that when viewing the MidWestOne
Building, the sign on that building would not be allowed in the new zoning standards, it would be
at least one-third smaller.
Freerks asked about the 1.5 times the size of the side of the building standard for signs and is
that for each side or the building as a whole. Ream stated it is for each side, each sign wall is
treated separately.
Freeks stated her appreciation that Reams went out and walked and drove the area to be able
to show the Commission a real feel for how the area looks.
Ream stated as requested she looked at what other communities allow and one of the things
that surprised her was how many communities allowed roof signs, and illumination of roof signs
She looked at four communities in Iowa, cities of a fairly similar size, plus she looked at both
Burlington Vermont and Boulder Colorado because they are both of similar size and university
towns with similar ped mall areas. Neither of those two communities allow high-rise buildings.
The tallest building in Boulder allowed is 55 feet (5 stories) and in Burlington it is 65 feet.
Hektoen added that the issue of illumination is not pending application so if there is a majority of
commissioners that wish to pursue this further it could be added to the worklist and proceed
from there.
Freerks opened the public discussion.
Seeing no one Freerks closed the public discussion
Hensch moved to recommend approval of an amendment to City Code Sections 14 -5B -8E
Sign Standards in the Central Business zones, and the South Downtown, University,
Central Crossings, Park, South Gilbert and East Side Mixed Use subdistricts to allow
plastic trim cap letters for signs above the fifth story.
Martin seconded the motion.
Freerks understands the amendment was to allow the plastic trim caps but wanted to use the
opportunity to learn more and open the conversation and to let City Council know that some of
the commissioners have concerns or thoughts of how it might affect things in the future.
Freerks would rather plan than react.
Theobald noted that she likes the community of Lacrosse Wisconsin and how they have created
their riverfront. However at this point Iowa City is already further down the road and these
conversations should have been at the beginning. Ream said in Lacrosse it appears there is a
historic overlay over the entire downtown and all the signs must be wood or metal and cannot
be backlit to be kept with the historic nature of the buildings.
Ream noted that Dubuque Iowa had the same requirements.
Signs stated he was intrigued by Ream's comment that Boulder does not allow high-rises and
has building limits of 55 feet. His thought was that "ship has sailed" here in Iowa City, we have
driven the prices of land up so high that one cannot afford to not build up high. Signs feels the
City will see more and more high-rises because of that new reality. Ream added that Boulder
passed their height ordinance in 1971.
Planning and Zoning Commission
November 2, 2017—Formal Meeting
Page 3 of 4
Hektoen added that in the context of affordable housing Boulder has a pretty serious affordable
housing crisis.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7-0.
CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: OCTOBER 19. 2017
Theobald moved to approve the meeting minutes of October 19, 2017.
Parsons seconded the motion.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0.
PLANNING AND ZONING INFORMATION:
Freerks noted that in the Staff memo there were a number of places where it stated
"Commission Chair expressed" or "Commission Chair requested" and asked that in the future
that is not used so there doesn't appear to be a bias or so that others will not be afraid to say
something or ask something in fear of being "called out" in a memo. She added this is a place
for information and that the Commission collectively works as a group. The meeting minutes
will indicated individual's statements and opinions.
Signs noted he will be absent for the December 7 meeting.
Martin will be absent December 21 and January 4.
ADJOURNMENT:
Signs moved to adjourn
Martin seconded.
A vote was taken and motion carried 7-0.
PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2017
KEY: X = Present
0 = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
— = Not a Member
4/6
M.S.)
4/20
4/20
5/4
5/18
6/1
(W.S)
6/7
6/15
7/6
7/20
8/3
8/17
9/7
9/21
10/5
10/19
11/2
DYER, CAROLYN
X
X
X
X
O/E
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
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
HENSCH, MIKE
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
MARTIN, PHOEBE
X
O/E
0/E
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
PARSONS, MAX
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O!E
X
X
X
X
SIGNS, MARK
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
XX
X
I X
X
X
X
X
X
THEOBALD, JODIE
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
KEY: X = Present
0 = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
— = Not a Member
Approved Minutes LELJ
September 21, 2017
MINUTES
SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION
SEPTEMBER 21, 2017
ASSEMBLY ROOM, IOWA CITY/JOHNSON COUNTY SENIOR CENTER
Members Present: Kathy Mitchell, Margaret Reese, Kenn Bowen, Hiram (Rick)
Weber, Cheryll Clamon, Lorraine Dorfman
Members Absent: Mark Holbrook
Staff Present: Kristin Kromray, Linda Kopping, Michelle Buhman
Others Present: None
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by Reese at 4:04 PM.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM AUGUST 17, 2017 MEETING:
Motion: To accept the minutes from the August 17, 2017 meeting as
amended. Motion carried on a vote of 610. Mitchel/Clamon
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
None.
DISCUSSION OF COMMISSION VISITS:
Lorraine will attend the October 5t' Board of Supervisors meeting.
REVIEW OF OPERATIONAL HANDBOOK (2011) AND DRAFT POLICIES:
Kopping presented a draft of a "Center Use Policy". This would replace the
current "Code of Conduct". In addition she presented a Whistleblower Policy,
Volunteer Policy, and Exhibit Artists and Artwork policy. Kopping explained the
process of how she is updating each policy to help the commissioners
understand how to compare old and new polices as they work on giving her
feedback on the new policies.
OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW:
Approved Minutes
September 21, 2017
Kopping reviewed the revenue and expenses comparison between FYI and
FY17. There was an increase in FYI expenses which is largely due to an
additional employee and capital improvements. There was an increase in
revenue from FYI and FYI in the amount of approximately $40,000. This is
due to an art grant, reimbursement from Friends of the Center for new tables, an
increase in membership fees, and additional room rental fees.
Kopping reviewed the participation counts between FYI and FYI 7. The
commission discussed these numbers.
Buhman reported that she and Edrington are compiling the FYI volunteer list
and hours for the annual report. A new work study student, Liz, is now assisting
Buhman. Fall programs are going well overall. Many classes are full, including
the Spanish for Beginners class, which had 19 people on the wait list. The
instructor for the Spanish class agreed to open another section to accommodate
the waitlist. A book reading by Jon Kerstetter was attended by over 100 people.
A membership appreciation event with a tailgate theme will be held at US Bank
on October 5t'. TRAIL and the Senior Center are partnering on an event at the
Coralville library on September 25th. There will be a live video discussion of the
book "Being Mortal". Buhman and Kopping have worked with the legal
department to update the independent contract agreement. Buhman's deadline
for spring program guide programs is October 8th.
COMMISSION DISCUSSION:
ADJOURNMENT:
Motion: To Adjourn. Motion carried on a vote of 610. Bowen/Mitchell
Approved Minutes
September 21, 2017
Senior Center Commission
Attendance Record
Year 2017
Name
Term Expires
10/20/16
11/17/16
12/8/16
1/19/17
2/16/17
3/16/17
4/20/17
5/18/17
6/15/17
7/20/2017
8/17/2017
9/21/2017
-
-
-
X
X
X
Kenn Bowen
12/31/20
NM
X
X
X
X
X
NM
NM
X
O/E
X
X
Cheryll Clamon
12/31/18
X
X
X
--
X
X
O/E
X
Lorraine Dorfman
12/31/19
NM
X
O/E
--
Jack Hobbs
12/31/16
NM
X
X
X
X
X
NM
NM
X
X
X
O/E
Mark Holbrook
12/31/18
NM
X
X
--
-
--
--
--
Jay Honohan
12/31/16
NM
X
X
X
X
X
NM
NM
X
X
X
X
Kathy Mitchell
12/31/19
NM
X
O/E
X
X
X
NM
NM
X
X
X
X
Margaret Reese
12/31/17
Hiram (Rick)
-
-
-
X
O/E
X
X
12/31/20
Weber
Key: X =
Present
O =
Absent
O/E =
Absent/Excused
NM=
No meeting
-- =
Not a member
Approved Minutes
September 21, 2017
01-02-18
Approved Minutes I 3b(8)
October 26, 2017
MINUTES
SENIOR CENTER
October 26, 2017
ROOM 205, IOWA CITY/JOHNSON COUNTY SENIOR CENTER
Members Present: Kathy Mitchell, Margaret Reese, Kenn Bowen, Hiram (Rick)
Weber, Cheryl] Clamon, Lorraine Dorfman, Mark Holbrook
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: Kristin Kromray, Linda Kopping
Others Present: None
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by Reese at 4:00 PM.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM SEPTEMBER 21.2017 MEETING:
Motion: To accept the minutes from the September 21, 2017. Motion carried
on a vote of 6/0. Mitchel/Bowen
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
None.
DISCUSSION OF COMMISSION VISITS:
Commissioner Dorfman visited the Board of Supervisors meeting. She focused
on reporting participation counts from FYI 7. She also commented on the quilt
raffle, fall programming and the volunteer recognition event.
Commissioner Weber said he would be willing to go to the next City Council
meeting.
FY19 BUDGET DEPARTMENT PROPOSAL REVIEW:
Kopping reported that the budget for FYI and amendments to the FYI budget
had been submitted the previous week. In FYI the only amendment that was
made was for one of three UV air filters to be purchased. Other large projects for
Approved Minutes
October 26, 2017
FY18 include painting of all 2nd floor classrooms and an elliptical machine. In the
FY19 operational budget the following items were included: assembly room
tables and chairs, 2 ultraviolet air filtration units, and an inspection of the
tuckpointing on the exterior of the building.
Kopping also submitted capital improvement projects for FY19-22 in the amount
of $300,000, spread out over three years. This money would be used for carpet
throughout the building, plaster repair, replacement of worn furniture and other
building updates.
The budget is first reviewed and approved by city management and then by the
city council in early next year.
OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW:
Kopping continues to work on policy and procedures, the Friends annual appeal
letters, and annual report.
There have been staffing shortages at the front desk due to illness and family
emergencies.
Kopping reported that Buhman and Edrington have been working on the spring
program guide and helping to cover the front desk.
Kopping noted that Edrington has been working hard to make the quilt raffle a
success, despite having a difficult time recruiting volunteers to sell tickets.
COMMISSION DISCUSSION:
There will be two vacancies on the commission at the end of this calendar year.
Commissioners discussed ways to encourage people to apply.
►,1IaI61111adJ'i 141 11
Motion: To Adjourn. Motion carried on a vote of 6/0. Mitchell/Dorfman
2
Approved Minutes
October 26, 2017
Senior Center Commission
Attendance Record
Year 2017
Name
Term Expire
11/17/16
12/8/16
1/19/17
2/16/17
3/16/17
4/20/17
5/18/17
6/15/17
7/20/17
8/17/17
9/21/17
10/26/17
-
-
-
X
X
X
X
Kenn Bowen
12/31/20
X
X
X
X
X
NM
NM
X
O/E
X
X
X
Cheryll Clamon
12/31/18
X
X
X
NM
NM
X
X
O/E
X
X
Lorraine Dorfman
12/31/19
X
O/E
-
-
-
Jack Hobbs
12/31/16
X
X
X
X
X
NM
NM
X
X
X
O/E
X
Mark Holbrook
12/31/18
Jay Honohan
12/31/16
X
X
X
X
X
NM
NM
X
X
X
X
X
Kathy Mitchell
12/31/19
X
O/E
X
X
X
NM
NM
X
X
X
X
X
Margaret Reese
12/31/17
Hiram (Rick)
-
-
X
O/E
X
X
X
12/31/20
Weber
Key: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
-- = Not a member