HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-07-03 Public hearingOU,er-
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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will
be held by the City Council of Iowa City, Iowa, at
7:00 p.m. on the 3rd day of July 2018, in Emma J.
Harvat Hall, 410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City,
Iowa, or if said meeting is cancelled, at the next
meeting of the City Council thereafter as posted
by the City Clerk; at which hearing the Council will
consider:
A resolution approving an amendment to
the Comprehensive Plan, Annexation
Policy, to add a section pertaining to
affordable housing.
Copies of the proposed ordinances and
resolutions are on file for public examination in the
office of the City Clerk, City Hall, Iowa City, Iowa.
Persons wishing to make their views known for
Council consideration are encouraged to appear
at the above-mentioned time and place.
Kellie Fruehling, City Clerk
Prepared by:�ob Miklo, Senior Planner, 410 E. Washington Sl, Iowa City, IA; 319-356-5240 (CPA1&-00001)
Resolution No.
A resolution ame ding the Comprehensive plan, Annexat' n Policy, to
add a section pert 'ning to affordable housing.
Whereas, the Comprehen ive
city; and
Whereas, the Comprehem
recommendation that consideratie
housing contributions, and
Whereas, the Planning and
Comprehensive Plan pertaining to
Plan contains policies regarding annexation of land into the
Plan Affordable Houp,69 g Action Plan includes a
given to an annexatio policy that provides for affordable
Now, therefore, be it resolved by the City
The Comprehensive Plan, Annexation
:ommission as reviewed an amendment to the
housing d has recommended approval.
cil the City of Iowa City, Iowa, that:
li , is hereby amended to include the following:
If the annexation is for residentia develop ent that will result in the creation of
ten (10) or more new housing u Its, the de lopment will support the City's goal
of creating and maintaining th supply of affo able housing. Such support shall
be based on providing affo able units equa to 10% of the total units in the
annexed area with an ass ance of long term a ordability, preferably for a term
of not less than 20 year g. Income targets sha be consistent with the City's
existing program requirefnents. How the develop nt provides such support will
vary depending on t particular circumstances the annexation, and may
include, but is not li I,ad to, transfer of lots/units t the City or an affordable
housing provider; f e -in -lieu paid to the City's afford le housing fund; and/or
participation in a. tate or federal housing program. determining the most
desirable option onsideration shall be given to the inter t of both the City and
the Iowa City Community School District in not exacerb ting the burdens on
neighborhood and elementary schools experiencing c Ilenges related to
concentratio s of poverty. An agreement committing the caner/Developer to
the affords a housing obligation, shall be required prior to an exation, and shall
be further memorialized, if necessary, in a conditional zoning a eement.
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Passed and approved this day of 20
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Mayor: r `j
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Approved by: cn
Attest:
Kellie Fruehling, City Clerk
City Attorney's Office
Comprehensive Plan
Public hearing for May 17 on an amendment to the
Comprehensive Plan, Annexation Policy, to add a section
pertaining to affordable housing.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will
be held by the City Council of Iowa City, Iowa, at
7:00 p.m. on the 15th day of May, 2018, in Emma
J. Harvat Hall, 410 E. Washington Street, Iowa
City, Iowa, or if said meeting is cancelled, at the
next meeting of the City Council thereafter as
posted by the City Clerk; at which hearing the
Council will consider.
1. An ordinance conditionally rezoning
approximately 7.84 acres from Interim
Development Research Development
Park (IDRP) zone to Planned
Development Overlay/Low Density
Multifamily (OPD/RM-12) zone located
west of Camp Cardinal Boulevard and
e—Beer�reek—Roa EZ17-
00015)
2. An ordinance conditionally rezoning
approximately 3.41 acres from High
Density Multifamily Residential (RM -
44) zone to Riverfront Crossings —
South Downtown Subdistrict (RFC -SD)
zone located at 12 E. Court Street.
REZ18-00014)
Copies of e—proposed—ouhmi2ces _arid -
resolutions are on file for public examination in the
office of the City Clerk, City Hall, Iowa City, Iowa.
Persons Wishing to make their views known for
Council consideration are encouraged to appear
at the above-mentioned time and place.
Kellie Fruehling, City Clerk
qb
To: Planning and Zoning Commission
Item: REZ18-00014
GENERAL INFORMATION:
Applicant:
Contact:
Requested Action:
Purpose:
Location:
Size:
Existing Land Use and Zoning:
Surrounding Land Use and Zoning:
Comprehensive Plan:
Neighborhood Open Space District:
File Date:
45 Day Limitation Period:
STAFF REPORT
Prepared by: Bob Miklo and Sylvia Bochner
Date: April 19, 2018
100-500 LLC
PO Box 3047
Iowa City, IA 52244
Jeff Clark
355 S. Gilbert Street
Iowa City, IA 52240
319-631-1867
jeffmc@yahoo.com
Rezone to Riverfront Crossings — South
Downtown Subdistrict
To allow for redevelopment of multi -family
housing
12 E. Court Street
3.41 acres
Multi -family residential, RM -44
a4b
North: University building and Public parking
ramp (P-1 and P-2)
South: Johnson County Courthouse and
parking (P-1 and P-2)
East: Voxman Music Building and Multi-
family residential (P-2 and RFC -SD)
West: University building and Multi -family
residential (P-2 and RFC -SD)
Downtown and Riverfront Crossings Master Plan
C7 - Near Southside
March 22, 2018
May 6, 2018
E
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
The applicant, 100-500 LLC, is requesting rezoning from High Density Multi -Family
Residential (RM -44) to Riverfront Crossings—South Downtown District (RFC -SD) for 3.41
acres of property located at 121. Court Street. The property currently contains the Pentecrest
Garden apartment complex. The Downtown and Riverfront Crossings Master Plan was
adopted in 2013 as an element of the City's Comprehensive Plan. One of the goals of the
Master Plan was to adopt a form -based zoning code for the Riverfront Crossings District that
would facilitate the redevelopment of properties according to the adopted vision. In 2014, a
form -based zoning code for Riverfront Crossings was adopted.
The subject property is located between Burlington Street and Court Street. As part of the
proposed rezoning, the applicant plans to dedicate right-of-way for Capitol Street to reopen
this street, which was closed as an urban renewal project.
The applicant has indicated that they have chosen not to use the "Good Neighbor Policy".
ANALYSIS:
Current and Proposed Zoning: The subject area is currently zone High Density Multi -Family
Residential (RM -44), a zone intended for the development of high density, multi -family
dwellings and group living quarters. The maximum height in this zone is 35 feet. The current
development on the subject property is an apartment complex in four buildings, which
contains 96 units.
The proposed zone, Riverfront Crossings—South Downtown District, is intended for high
intensity mixed use development in buildings with active ground floor uses opening onto
pedestrian friendly streetscapes. Buildings in this zone must be designed with facades along
public sidewalks with parking and service areas located behind buildings in rear lot and
midblock locations. This zone allows a variety of uses, including commercial and multi -family
residential uses. The height for buildings in the South Downtown District is 8 stories with the
possibility of 7 additional floors if bonus floors are granted for features that provide public
benefit or further goals and objectives of the Master Plan.
In the Riverfront Crossings zone, projects with residential uses are required to provide 10
square feet of useable open space per bedroom. This open space includes any open air,
outdoor space shared by residents of the building, with a minimum width of 20 feet. Indoor
activity space can count for up to 50% of the open space requirement. The submitted concept
plan dgep not include information on the number of units or bedrooms in the proposed
buildings, but it will need to comply with this open space requirement. The applicant has
indicated that the open space will be provided in rooftop areas.
The Riverfront Crossings zone requires that residential developments containing more than
10 units must provide affordable housing units equal to or greater than 10% of the total units.
Alternatives to providing the required affordable housing within the development include
payment of a fee to an affordable housing fund, off site affordable housing, or contribution
of land. A signed affordable housing agreement will be required prior to City Council
approval of the rezoning.
3
Compliance with Comprehensive Plan: The Downtown and Riverfront Crossings Master
Plan was adopted in January 2013 as an element of the City's Comprehensive Plan. The
form -based zoning code for Riverfront Crossings is intended to help implement that vision
and contains standards for building and parking placement, streetscape improvements,
building form and design, and landscaping and open space requirements.
The Master Plan specifically addresses the superblock bounded by Burlington Street, Court
Street, Clinton Street, and Madison Street, in which the subject property is located. The
plan calls for the extension of Capitol Street to connect Burlington Street and Court Street.
The plan also states that this area is an appropriate site for student housing, due to its
proximity to campus and the student recreation center. The Master Plan envisioned this
property being combined with others in the area and redevelopment of apartment
buildings surrounding internal courtyards. Because properties within this block have
already redeveloped, the arrangement of buildings around an internal courtyard is no
longer feasible. However, the proposed apartment buildings on either side of the extended
Capitol Street complies with the broader goals of the Master Plan to increase connectivity
and provide student housing close to campus.
Compatibility with neighborhood: The surrounding properties are all zoned either
Riverfront Crossings—South Downtown District or Public (P-1 or P-2). Neighboring
properties include University facilities, such as the Voxman Music Building, the Johnson
County Courthouse, apartment buildings, a gas station, and mixed-use buildings with
commercial on the ground floor and apartments above. In staffs view, the proposed high-
density multifamily residential use will be compatible with both existing and future land
uses in the surrounding neighborhood.
Traffic implications: As a condition of the rezoning the applicant has agreed to dedicate
right-of-way to construct Capitol Street between Burlington Street and Court Street. This
will improve vehicular and pedestrian connectivity in the area and supports a goal of the
Downtown and Riverfront Crossings Master Plan.
The Downtown and Riverfront Crossings Master Plan calls for streetscape enhancements
along Burlington Street to make it a safe pedestrian route to and from campus. The plan
calls for a 15' sidewalk and a 5' furnishing zone, which should contain pedestrian scale
lighting, and landscaping such as trees, tall grasses, bollards and chain to create a buffer
between the street and the pedestrian sidewalk. The landscape features should also be
designed to discourage midblock pedestrian crossing. Given the increased density and
pedestrian activity that will result from this development, staff recommends that
installation of these improvements be a condition of the rezoning.
Concept Plan: The applicant has submitted a concept' plan and illustrations of buildings
that are similar in character to what he would like to construct. It should be noted that these
illustrations are not actual designs for this property. The form -based code will require that
the upperfloors be stepped back. Development on this propertywill require building design
approval by the Staff Design Review Committee and City Council. The applicant has
indicated that he will be seeking bonus height for right-of-way dedication.
The concept plans shows Capitol Street as a two-lane street with parallel parking on each
side. It is anticipated that the street will include turn lanes at the intersection with
Burlington Street. There is also the possibility that the street will be designed as a
2
pedestrian street with limited or no access to vehicles. The design of the street will need
to be approved by the City Engineer.
The concept plan illustrates a maximum development foot -print, but the applicant has
indicated that specific building design has not been created. The buildings will include
parking within the buildings. Parking for the western building will be accessible from the
alley located on the west side of the building. Parking for the eastern building will be
accessible from Capitol Street or possibly Court Street (because the alley to the east is at a
higher elevation, it may not be usable to provide access to underground parking).
The applicant has indicated that these buildings will include roof top open space for the
benefit of the residents.
Summary: The proposed rezoning including the reopening of Capital Street complies with
the Downtown and Riverfront Crossings Plan. A specific plan has not been prepared for
the property. If the applicant is to achieve the bonus height being requested a specific plan
will need to be approved by City Council.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of REZ18-00014, a proposal to rezone approximately 3.41 acres
of property located at 12 East Court Street from High Density Multi -Family Residential (RM -
44) to Riverfront Crossings—South Downtown District (RFC -SD) subject to the following
conditions:
1. The applicant will dedicate right of way to the City to reopen Capitol Street.
2. The developer will build the Capital Street to specifications approved by the City
Engineer.
3. Applicant will install streetscape improvements to enhance. the pedestrian
environment on Burlington Street and Court Streets, as discussed in the Downtown
and Riverfront Crossings Master Plan.
An affordable housing agreement will be required prior to the close of the City Council public
hearing on this rezoning.
u
1. Location Map
2. Concept plan
Approved by: ( VV� U
Tracy Hight e, Di or,
Department of Neighborhood and Development Services
ppdadminWmpldo nQ
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CITY OF IOWA Cmr
An application submitted by 100-500 LLC
for a rezoning of 3.41 acres located at
12 E. Court Street from High Density
Multi -Family Residential (RM -44) to
Riverfront Crossings - South Downtown
Subdistrict (RFC -SD).
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Planning and Zoning Commission
April 19, 2018
Page 23 of 25
Freerks thanked the applicant for being patient through this process and thinks the end product
will be wonderful and a nice area for the residents that will rent easily.
Parsons noted it is a challenging piece of property to develop on and he feels the changes that
have been made in this process make this application strong.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7-0.
—� REZONING ITEM (REZ18-00014):
Discussion of an application submitted by 100-500 LLC, for a rezoning of approximately
3.41 acres from High Density Multi -Family Residential (RM -44) zone to Riverfront Crossings -
South Downtown Subdistrict (RFC -SD) zone located at 12 E. Court Street.
Due to the late hour of the meeting Miklo did not deliver the whole staff report, it is online for
anyone that wants to read it. Staff is recommending approval with the condition that the right-of-
way to reopen Capitol Street be dedicated to the City and the applicant build or install the street
to the specifications of the City Engineer. The direction of the street at this time is it will be open
to traffic and not limited to a pedestrian street. The applicant would install the streetscape
improvements as called for in the Riverfront Crossings Plan for Burlington and Court Streets.
Additionally the affordable housing requirements Riverfront Crossings must be included in the
Conditional Zoning Agreement. Miklo noted the applicant has indicated they will be seeking a
bonus for additional stories on the buildings, possibility 15 floors, and the Commission had
indicated a desire to see that design so that could be a condition placed on this rezoning.
Freerks said she is interested in seeing the design of this project given the large scale and as
she feels there needs to be usable indoor and outdoor spaces.
Freerks opened the public hearing
Rob Decker (HBK Engineering) stated that this application will require a level two design
approval so there will be a packet of information supplied to the City and he feels it does make
sense to come back before Planning and Zoning. Decker confirmed they will be applying for
height credits, they will get a lot of it from the right-of-way transfer. They will work with Public
Works on parking options, and also address the pedestrian access required along Burlington
Street and their intent is to do a full streetscape in the area. It will all be shown in the design
packet submitted.
Freerks noted she does want to see Capitol Street open to traffic and not just pedestrians due to
all the deliveries that will go to these new buildings and need for vehicle unloading area (not on
Burlington Street).
Signs noted he is hopeful to see a dynamic design of this project, it is a premier piece of
property. Freerks agrees and hopes to see green spaces and areas for activities.
Freerks closed the public hearing
Hensch moved to recommend approval of REZ18-00004 a n application submitted by 100-
500 LLC, for a rezoning of approximately 3.41 acres from High Density Multi -Family
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 19, 2018
Page 24 of 25
Residential (RM -44) zone to Riverfront Crossings - South Downtown Subdistrict (RFC -
SD) zone located at 12 E. Court Street including the conditions of:
• The applicant will dedicate right of way to the City to reopen Capitol Street.
• The developer will build the Capital Street to specifications approved by the City
Engineer.
• Applicant will install streetscape improvements to enhance the pedestrian
environment on Burlington Street and Court Streets, as discussed in the
Downtown and Riverfront Crossings Master Plan.
• The design plan will come before Planning and Zoning for approval.
Parsons seconded the motion.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 7-0.
CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: MARCH 12, MARCH 15, APRIL 2 & APRIL 5,
2018
Miklo noted the April 5, 2018 minutes are not in the packet and will be deferred until the next
meeting.
Hensch moved to approve the meeting minutes of March 12, March 15 & April 2, 2018.
Parsons seconded the motion.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0.
PLANNING AND ZONING INFORMATION:
Miklo reminded the Commission that in a previous meeting they recommended approval of
historical landmark status for seven properties, City Council approved five of the properties.
With two of the properties the owners objected and therefore the State Code requires six out of
seven council members to approve and that did not happen. Miklo asked if the Commission
wanted to meet with Council to discuss the votes. Freerks confirmed that yes a meeting should
happen. Miklo said one possible time for the meeting would be May 15 at the Council's work
session. He said that the Historic Preservation Commission is also being invited, so he will
confirm the meeting time once it is established.
Adjournment:
Hensch moved to adjourn.
Parsons seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0.
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 16, 2018 —Work Session
Page 5 of 9
REZONING ITEM (REZ17-00015):
Discussion of an application submitted by Cardinal Pointe West, LLC for a rezoning of
approximately 7.84 acres from Interim Development Research Development Park (IDRP) zone to
Planned Development Overlay/Low Density Multifamily (OPD/RM-12) zone for the property
located west of Camp Cardinal Boulevard and east of Deer Creek Road.
Miklo stated the applicant submitted a couple of concept illustrations of what the buildings could
look like. They went from the 40 unit buildings with the gable/hip roof to one with flat roofs and
modular changes in the building fagade. The applicant is proposing three buildings with three
different stone/brick colors for distinction.
Theobald asked if the siding is vinyl siding. Miklo is unsure of the material but it is some sort of
manufactured masonry product. One of the goals is more sound deadening materials due to the
proximity to the highway so the Commission can specify what materials are used.
Miklo also stated he confirmed that fire department is open to using pervious pavers or grass
creek in the fire lanes if it is engineered to support fire trucks. The applicant is also working on
identifying tree species to use in the buffer that aren't susceptible to fungus or disease. He also
added there would be some gazebos on the deck areas, the whole area would not be covered
but some of the area would.
Freerks suggested the top windows of the buildings to be taller perhaps to break up the design.
Otherwise she feels this is the right direction.
Signs is glad to see each building distinctive with color.
Miklo stated the applicant should have plans complete for the meeting Thursday but the
Commission may still want/need to place some conditions in the conditional zoning agreement
that the applicant generally follow the concept plan, the landscaping plan be approved by the
City Forrester, and the Fire Marshall and City Engineer approve the design of the fire lanes.
—� REZONING ITEM (REZ18-00014):
Discussion of an application submitted by 100-500 LLC, for a rezoning of approximately
3.41 acres from High Density Multi -Family Residential (RM -44) zone to Riverfront Crossings -
South Downtown Subdistrict (RFC -SD) zone located at 12 E. Court Street.
Miklo stated this property is currently RM -44 which is high density multi -family, there are
approximately 95-100 apartment units in the complex. The complex was built after Urban
Renewal and at the time Capital Street was closed to traffic. The Riverfront Crossings Plan calls
for reopening Capital Street, and also calls for high density and possibility student housing in this
area. This area is identified as appropriate for student housing because it is immediately
adjacent to campus and the Code provides a bonus for student housing. A concept plan was
included in the Commissioner's packets showing how the street would be reopened, and a
maximum foot print of what could be built there, no actual design has been drafted. The building
would have stepbacks after a certain level and there would be some usable open rooftop area.
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 16, 2018 — Work Session
Page 6 of 9
The applicant originally submitted two designs for the street, a four -lane with parking and a two-
lane with parking. Staff is inclined to go with the two-lane with parking and turn lanes at
Burlington Street. Staff is recommending conditioning the zoning on the street being built as part
of the development. Miklo also pointed out the applicant is hoping to use the bonus provisions of
the Code. Riverfront Crossings would allow 8 story buildings in this area with some stepbacks,
the bonus provisions would allow up to 15 floors and vacation of the street right-of-way would be
part of the bonus provision. To get the bonus provisions the design will require City Council
approval, it would not come before the Planning and Zoning Commission, just the City Council.
Dyer asked if it has to go before the Council, why can't it come to the Commission first. Miklo
said that could be a condition of the zoning if there is a valid reason. He noted the
Comprehensive Plan does show what is anticipated here.
Freerks commented that the Commission usually sees more from applicants at this point and is
concerned the design will only go before City Council.
Hensch asked what the goals were for opening up that street, seems like a perfect opportunity to
create a pedestrian area. He noted that if this development is high density student population
having traffic drive down the middle of it seems unsafe as students will cross mid -block.
Freerks countered that she is excited to have the road open to traffic because often when these
big buildings are developed there is no place for UPS to pull in or any other service vehicle.
Signs noted that in other walkways around town (such as the T. Anne Cleary walkway) service
vehicles are parked there all the time. Freerks acknowledged that but said it is different when it
is private and deliveries are pizza and other types. Hensch asked if they could just have service
lanes established. Additionally he noted there is a significant grade change where Capital Road
will go through. Miklo said they will have to bring in quite a bit of fill. Miklo also noted by opening
up the road the residents of the building on the west will be able to access the underground
parking.
Signs noted he is excited to see the street go through but is concerned about the size of the
buildings if a 15 story bonus is allowed, and no green space.
Freerks noted they are proposing a roof top green space, but wants to make clear that the
expectation is more than just a few planters and a couple of chairs. What is needed is
something with true green space and an area that could be used year-round.
Hensch questioned how much room would be available on the rooftop with all the HVAC units
and other mechanical equipment up there. Miklo noted that under the Form -Based Code they
cannot build a rectangle that goes all the way up, they will have to have stepbacks and some
outdoor open space. one of the conceptual drawings shows and idea of the outdoor space
being atop the lower floors where the stepback begins.
Freerks said the Commission would like to hear details from the applicant regarding the
recreation area.
Dyer commented they would like to see actual concepts, not just images of other buildings.
Hensch agreed and noted that for a project of this size (hundreds of units collecting rents for 75
years) the applicant should be able to spend the money to have elevation and concept designs
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 16, 2018 — Work Session
Page 7 of 9
drafted.
Miklo asked Hektoen if the concerns about open space and the streetscape are valid enough
reasons to impose a conditional zoning agreement so that the design would have to come back
before the Commission. Hektoen acknowledged if the rational is articulated a conditional zoning
agreement could be imposed.
Freerks asked about the building height being an issue for flight paths for the hospital
helicopters. Miklo replied it would have to be approved by Federal Aviation Administration.
Adjournment:
Hensch moved to adjourn.
Signs seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0.
Kellie Fruehling
From: James Pobst <simulacraj@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 30, 2018 10:03 AM
To: Council
Subject: Thoughts about the pace of student housing construction
Council members: I was encouraged when I heard that the latest student housing building construction south of
Burlington was put on hold. Might I suggest that this moment also gives you pause about the future of construction for
students generally in the city given current conditions?
Have you thought about the recent and near future enforced implementation of student tuition increases at the
University, and what that might do to the desirability of students to come to the city? I personally think it's a bad
decision to continue with approving construction projects without knowing how the student population might fluctuate
in the years to come, given the concerns over budget in the state as a whole and how it affects education funding. I
don't think you want a cluster of half -full buildings in the core of downtown.
So I would propose that you take this opportunity to offer a moratorium on further construction projects, until we
would know more information about how tuition increases will affect enrollment at the University in this coming year.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
James H Pobst
Kellie Fruehling
From:
Quinn <quinnstamp@msn.com>
Sent:
Wednesday, May 30, 2018 3:56 PM
To:
Council
Subject:
Pentacrest Garden Apartments
Dear Council,
The Pentacrest Garden Apartments project is a slam dunk for Iowa City and my hope is that the City Council
won't block this from moving forward simply because some of its members find tall buildings unsightly. I
understand each project is unique and requires unique consideration. But this project and this particular site,
as Mr. Botchway spoke to in the meeting on 5/29/2018, is a no-brainer.
You can't run a campaign on a progressive platform and then stop progress of those who wish to invest money
in your city. You can't be pro -environment, pro -bicycle, pro-walkability, pro -historic preservation, et al, and
not allow a project to move forward which addresses these issues, merely b/c you and your friends may have
a personal aversion to tall structures.
The biggest question I have is shared by that of Mr. Botchway - which is the question around affordability. But
those are questions that can be addressed with the developer and ought to be the focus of this Council. I
beseech each of you to make that your focus in regards to this project and not to get hung up on the height of
its structure.
Quinn Stamp
957 Canton Street, Iowa City
Kellie Fruehling
From: Tim Weitzel <tweitzel.email@gmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2018 9:00 AM
To: Council
Subject: proposed rezoning of 12 Court St. from RM -44 to RFC -SD
Attachments: proposed rezoning of 12 Court St. from RM -44 to RFC-SD.rtf
Please find a Rich Text File document attached with my thoughts and remarks.
Iowa City Council Members:
Regarding the proposed rezoning of 12 Court St. from RM -44 to RFC -SD, I want to indicate my support
for approval of the rezoning. As stated by staff, the property was only left out of the Riverfront Crossings
plan because the City wanted to allow for additional negotiation to achieve goals meeting public benefit
criteria. Approving the rezoning furthers those goals and meets several others established for the
Riverfront Crossings district, including mandatory affordable housing, reopening capitol street, and a
long term planning goal to provide sufficient student housing to reduce student rental demand for
converted single family houses, such as those in the north side. This allows the potential for
reestablishing single family uses in this area, and with programs such as the UniverCity program, makes
the housing available at an affordable level as established by US Housing and Urban Development.
Further, many of the multiplex buildings are reaching the end of their service life. Housing built in the
1970s and 1980s was largely built on standards for housing that would survive just 30 years. Many of
these buildings will require substantial renovations and the costs may well exceed the value of retaining
the buildings, leading to redevelopment. This will displace a number of renters in the process and we
need to meet the demand that will create for replacement rentals. New, taller construction meets a
much longer lifespan objective and is inherently more sustainable for this
I was on the Planning and Zoning Commission when we recommended Council approve the district plan
for the River Front Crossings area of Iowa City. Mayor Throgmorton and Council Member Mims were
both on City Council when this addition to the Comprehensive plan was adopted. The process took
months and endless hours of staff and consultant time to accomplish at no small expense to the City. As
stated in the Executive Summary, "The Downtown and Riverfront Crossings Master Plan was developed
with significant public input gathered through a series of workshops and focus group sessions that took
place over the course of several months. The Master Plan will serve as a framework to guide future
public and private investment in a manner that will benefit citizens living or working in the core of the
city as well as citizens in Iowa City as a whole."
The plan was to be a long range planning tool. It was to set the tone for development and act as a guide
to developers, staff, and appointed and elected officials. As stated in the Executive Summary "The
planning process was guided by a market analysis and a visioning process. The market analysis
examined the mix of uses within the Study Area and projected market demand for these uses into the
future." So the analysis, based on a market study and sound projections, was based on evidence that
indicated a demand for higher densities was favorable for adopting the higher densities in this district.
Further, the Planning and Zoning Commission and Council, by approving the Riverfront Crossings District
plan,
Tall buildings are indicated in the district plan for corner lots where public infrastructure and
transportation can sustain the larger density. Allowing the rezoning accomplishes this goal along with all
the other goals stated above—mandatory affordable housing, reduced demand potential for the north
side, more sustainable building design, and reopening Capitol Street.
I strongly urge the council to consider this and to not vote down a rezoning recommended by staff and
Planning and Zoning Commission for only aesthetical choices regarding building height.
Tim Weitzel, Iowa City
Kellie Fruehling
From:
jjehle <jjehle@mymailstation.com>
Sent:
Thursday, May 31, 2018 10:21 AM
To:
Council
Subject:
Iowa City is a UNIVERSITY TOWN!!!!!
City Council Members:
I cannot believe that "we" are deciding whether to allow a 15 story or an 8 story building on Burlington
street! l...even if it faces Court Street.
THIS IS A UNIVERSITY TOWN .... let the Old Capitol Building be seen from most anywhere in the City. Let the
new U of I Music building stand out on Burlington Street. We don't need MORE CONGESTION on Burlington
Street.... even if it faces Court Street) l
Joan Jehle
1167 E. Jefferson Street
Iowa City, IA 52245
Kellie Fruehling
From: Teagan Roeder <teagan.roeder@gmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2018 2:20 PM
To: Council
Subject: Voxman apartments density issue questions?
Hello!
I saw a Press Citizen article discussing a potential apartment complex and was curious to know what's the issue cited by
various council members regarding the density of the potential project. Is the concern with the density of the proposal
to do with utilities being strained or something else?
-Teagan Roeder
Kellie Fruehling
From: Susan Mims
Sent: Friday, June 15, 2018 12:19 PM
To: Kellie Fruehling
Subject: FW: 12 E. Court St.
Please include this in the next info packet.
Thanks,
Susan
Sent from Mail for Windows 10
From: Hunter Gillaspie
Sent: Friday, June 15, 2018 12:14 PM
To: Kingsley Botchway; Rockne Cole; Susan Mims; Mazahir Salih; Pauline Taylor; John Thomas; Jim Throamorton
Subject: 12 E. Court St.
Iowa City City Council,
I'm writing you all in regard to a proposed development at 12 E. Court Street.
As a resident of 432 S. Dubuque Street, I have walked past this parcel virtually every day over the past 3 years as I've
walked to class at the university, and to work at UIHC. My thoughts are as follows:
The existing development that sits on the parcel, frankly, is out of place with the developments that have
occurred adjacent to it, namely, the Voxman Music Building, and the new apartment building fronting Madison
Street.
The existing development does not have an engaging streetfront. Pedestrians walk by rows of parked cars as
they pass by. This type of development is more suburban than what would be appropriate for this site. The
proposed development shows buildings that engage the streetfront, which would foster pedestrian -friendliness.
• The existing development obstructs pedestrian connectivity to the campus area via Capitol Street. The proposed
development reopens this street, improving pedestrian and bicycle connectivity in the heart of the city.
1 recognize that this parcel is in close proximity to the Johnson County Courthouse, and that obstruction of view
is a concern. There are numerous ways to reduce this impact while still allowing for dense, urban development,
such as staggered building heights, segmented tower structures, and use of less obstructive building materials.
You have the power to negotiate these details with the developer. I encourage you to exercise that power.
The existing development essentially serves as an obstructive eyesore that divides the vibrant campus and
downtown area to the north from the developing Riverfront Crossings area to the south. This new development,
if done correctly, could serve as the perfect gateway between the two areas. You have the power to negotiate
this design proposal with the developer and ensure that it's done correctly. Again, I encourage you to exercise
that power.
Furthermore, 1 had a couple of very close friends who I would visit frequently that lived in the apartment buildings that
currently occupy that parcel. The interior of the existing developments is outdated, cheaply constructed, and will have a
limited lifespan regardless of whatever cob job remodel the landlord comes up with if you don't allow the parcel to be
redeveloped. I'm well aware of the history Apartments Downtown has with tenants, which is why I have chosen not to
rent from them. However, I see this as a way to encourage them to improve upon their past. The proposed
development, as a taller building, requires higher quality construction techniques that would be a huge upgrade in
comparison to what currently sits there.
I recognize that there are 4,000+ housing units that are currently in the process of coming online in the central areas of
the city. I think that's a huge step in the right direction. However, I also think that developers do their homework before
they make these kinds of proposals, and they wouldn't be proposing this if there wasn't a demand there. Demand for
housing close to campus and downtown has been pent up for a number of years, and 1 think allowing some of these
developments to progress could alleviate that pressure from historic neighborhoods adjacent to downtown that have
been inundated with students as a result.
Finally, I want to thank you all for your service, your previous interactions with myself and student government, and for
leading the future of the city I've called home for the past four years. I've enjoyed my time here. I will be moving to
Chicago at the end of the summer to pursue my Master of Urban Planning & Policy degree at the University of Illinois at
Chicago. While I'll miss the Corridor, having grown up in Marion and gone to school here in Iowa City, it was time for a
new experience. What I will say, is that I think areas like the Corridor, Des Moines, and other medium-sized metropolitan
areas.will need to show an ability to urbanize in order to make them attractive places for me and thousands of young
people like me as we choose a place to make a permanent home. Obstructing projects like this one is only hurting Iowa
City's potential for the future.
1 encourage you all to allow this development proposal to move forward, and to hold the developer accountable to
making this a positive addition to our city.
Best,
Hunter Gillaspie
Urban Planning Intern, City of Cedar Rapids
He/Him/His
Kellie Fruehling
From:
Brad Grupe <bradgrupe@mchsi.com>
Sent:
Tuesday, June 26, 2018 1:41 PM
To:
Council
Subject:
Pentacrest Gardens
I'm writing in support of Pentacrest Gardens, the high-rise apartment development that you are voting on soon.
For a council that professes to be "progressive" I don't understand the resistance by some of the council to this
project.
Planning and zoning has already approved it and their are safeguards in place that if the developer wishes to
build it higher than eight stories that special approval is needed.
I would think you would welcome the tax revenue and also the opportunity to require low-income units be
included (not waived for additional payment) in this project. This would help bolster the downtown area and
businesses as well as provide much needed tax revenue to the city.
Please abide by the P and Z approval and approve the project. Each delay costs the developer and the city
money in the long run.
Thanks for reading -
Bradley Grupe
1654 Aber Ave
iowa City IA 52246
Kellie Fruehling
From: Andy Moore <andymoore8448@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, June 26, 2018 8:41 PM
To: Council
Subject: Building Heights
Dear Council,
Please don't limit building heights in the Riverfront Crossings District and elsewhere downtown. Taller
buildings improve walkability, stabilize rent pricing, and decrease urban sprawl. Some of the comments made
recently by members of the council regarding "tall buildings" are very concerning. Innovative cities, which I
believe ours to be one, don't make these statements regarding building heights. They don't tell developers to
cut building heights. The encourage innovation not put chains on it. Your actions have already cost the
Chauncey height, 7 Linn Street, and potentially the proposed developments at Linn and Market and along
Burlington and Court. You don't have to like something to understand its value. I ask that you think 30 plus
years down the road ... do you want 5 story building after 5 story building lining our streets? No. Thank you!
-Andy Moore
Kellie Fruehling
From: Geoff Fruin
Sent: Monday, July 02, 2018 5:01 PM
To: Eleanor M. Dilkes; Kellie Fruehling; Tracy Hightshoe
Cc: Simon Andrew; Ashley Monroe; Jim Throgmorton
Subject: FW: Request for Deferral for 12 East Court
Importance: High
Kellie –
Can you please distribute this tomorrow with the late handouts? Thanks,
Geoff Fruin
City Manager
From: Rob Decker [mailto:rdecker@axiom-con.com]
Sent: Monday, July 02, 2018 4:57 PM
To: Geoff Fruin <Geoff-Fruin@iowa-city.org>
Cc: Jeff Clark <jeffmc1973@yahoo.com>; bryan2@live.com
Subject: Request for Deferral for 12 East Court
Importance: High
Geoff,
-4�-qj .
Late Handouts Distributed
71i / 8
—7
(Date)
The development team for the 12 East Court Street rezoning effort would like to formally request a deferral vote at the
next council meeting (July 3rtl) until the August r council meeting.
It is our understanding that Ms. Salih will return on that day and a full council will be present. In the event that this is not
the case, an August 2V date would be requested.
Thank you.
Ax1.om
COSULTANTS
Rob Decker, MSE, CPG, CPII
PRINCIPAL
A 60 E. Court Street, Unit 3, Iowa City, IA 52240
O 319.519.6221 M 319.333.9322 E rdecker(a)axiom-
con.com W www.axiom-con.com
logo
Publish 6/14
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING OF INTENTION
TO AMEND PRIOR ISSUE OF
MIDWESTERN DISASTER AREA REVENUE BONDS
(IOWA CANCER CURE PROJECT)
SERIES 2012
Notice is hereby given that the City Council of the City of Iowa City, Iowa, (hereinafter "Issuer")
will meet on the 3`t day of July, 2018, in the Council Room, at the City Hall, 410 E. Washington
Street, Iowa City, IA 52440 at 7:00 p.m. and hold a public hearing on the proposal to amend the
prior issue of $5,376,250 principal amount of the Issuer's Midwestern Disaster Area Revenue
Bonds (Iowa Cancer Cure Project), Series 2012, (hereinafter "Bonds") pursuant to the provisions
of Chapter 419 of the Code of Iowa, as amended, and Sections 103, 141-150 and 1400N of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, originally issued for the purpose of defraying all or
portion of the cost of acquiring, constructing and improving an approximate 24,000 square foot,
two story medical office building for use as a radiation oncology clinic and other medical uses
located at 3010 Northgate Drive, Iowa City, Iowa, together with all incidental items and paying
the costs of issuance of the Bonds. The facilities are owned and operated by Iowa Cancer Cure,
L.L.C., a limited liability company organized and existing under the laws of the State of Iowa
(hereinafter "Borrower").
The Bonds were issued pursuant to a Bond Purchase Agreement and Issuer and Borrower entered
into a Loan Agreement wherein the Issuer agreed to loan to Borrower the proceeds from the sale
of the Bonds in return for loan payments from Borrower sufficient to pay the principal of,
interest and premium, if any, on such Bonds as the same shall become due and payable.
Borrower and the purchaser of the Bonds desire to amend said Bonds to revise the interest rate
formula and such other revisions as may be required thereby.
Such Bonds, and the principal thereof and the interest thereon are payable solely out of the
revenues derived from the Loan Agreement and shall never constitute an indebtedness of the
Issuer within the meaning of any state constitutional provision or statutory limitation and shall
not constitute nor give rise to a pecuniary liability of the Issuer or become a charge against its
general credit or taxing powers.
All local residents who appear at the public hearing or any adjournment thereof, shall be given
an opportunity to express their views for or against the above stated proposal and, at the meeting
or any adjournment thereof, the City Council of the City of Iowa City, Iowa shall adopt a
resolution determining whether or not to proceed with the amendment of the prior issue of the
Bonds. Written comments may also be submitted by the time of the above hearing, to the Issuer
at City Hall, 410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52440.
By Order of the City Council this 29th day of May, 2018
KELLIE FRUEHLING, City Clerk