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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-09-18 CorrespondenceItem Number: 9.a. I r , CITY OF IOWA CITY UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE September 18, 2018 ATTACHMENTS: Description Derek Huish: Ordinance Proposal [Staff response included] Kellie Fruehling From: Geoff Fruin Sent: Friday, August 31, 2018 7:43 AM To: 'Huish, Derek A'; Council Subject: RE: Ordinance Proposal Mr. Huish, All correspondence, including suggestions for ordinances, can be emailed to the City Council at council@iowa- city.org, If you prefer, you can also bring a hard copy submittal to the City Clerk's Office at City Hall, 410 E. Washington Street. All correspondence received will be delivered to the City Council in their next available meeting packet. Those packets are compiled and delivered twice monthly. Thank you, Geoff Fruin City Manager From: Huish, Derek A [mailto:derek-huish@uiowa.edu] Sent: Thursday, August 30, 2018 10:00 AM To: Council <Council@iowa-city.org> Subject: Ordinance Proposal Good Morning, I am a law student, and I am conducting research regarding a potential ordinance for Iowa City. I am wondering whether there is a formal submission process for Iowa City ordinances. If so, where must submissions be made? Are there any deadlines? Thanks, Derek A. Huish Senior Managing Editor, Iowa Law Review, Vol. 104 J.D. Candidate 2019, The University of Iowa College of Law (208) 206-8710 Item Number: 9.b. i r , CITY OF IOWA CITY UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE September 18, 2018 ATTACHMENTS: Description Carol deProsse: Climate Threat Demands article Kellie Fruehling From: Carol deProsse <lonetreefox@mac.com> Sent: Thursday, August 30, 2018 7:49 PM To: Council Subject: Local Efforts Noble, But Study Shows Scale of Climate Threat Demands 'Heavy Lifting' of National Governments https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/yTPRCDkxnKFoApylWJUNh Thursday, August 30, 2018 by Common Dreams Local Efforts Noble, But Study Shows Scale of Climate Threat Demands 'Heavy Lifting' of National Governments "The actions of cities, companies, and states aren't insignificant but they can't do it by themselves." by Julia Conley, staff writer California lawmakers passed a bill this week aiming for 100 percent renewable energy in the state by 2045 but a new study finds local and state efforts aren't enough to combat the climate crisis. (Photo: Diana Robinson/Flickr/cc) Since President Donald Trump withdrew from the Paris climate agreement in 2017, a number of local governments have taken it upon themselves to meet the deal's requirements to the extent that they can—but a new study finds that while those efforts are admirable and significant for individual states and communities, they are no match for the climate crisis fast accelerating by increased carbon emissions around the world. Local leaders should continue doing what they can to combat the climate crisis, researchers at Data -Driven Yale found in their study. But until the United States—the world's largest driver of greenhouse gas emissions—is led by a government that prioritize a sharp reduction of carbon emissions and a shift to renewable energy, individual cities' and states' ability to slow the climate crisis will be minimal. Examining the efforts of nearly 6,000 cities and states and 2,000 businesses—like California's advancement on Tuesday of a 100 percent renewable energy bill—found that those initiatives will only reduce U.S. carbon emissions by 1.5 billion to 2.2 billion metric tons by 2030. In contrast, the United States' carbon output last just last year was 5.14 billion metric tons. "When we look at the individual pledges the impact isn't that large, so we absolutely need national governments to pull through and do a lot of the heavy lifting," Dr. Angel Hsu, director of Data -Driven Yale, told The Guardian. "The actions of cities, companies, and states aren't insignificant but they can't do it by themselves. This shows everyone can be doing more. The current reductions are woefully inadequate and hopefully the actions of other entities will give national governments the confidence to be more ambitious." The individual actions of forward -thinking governors and mayors, the study suggests, is no match for an administration which refuses to even acknowledge the consensus of 97 percent of climate scientists that human activity is contributing to the climate crisis, and which announced last week a plan under which states would be able to regulate their emissions from coal plants. "The idea we just tighten our belt a bit isn't going to solve the problem. We need to stop using the atmosphere as a dumping ground, abandon fossil fuels, find other sources of energy and deal with the carbon debt we already have," Klaus Lackner, the director of Center for Negative Carbon Emissions at Arizona State University, told The Guardian. I r , CITY OF IOWA CITY UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE September 18, 2018 ATTACHMENTS: Item Number: 9.c. Description John and Kathleen Holst: Gilbert Street from Brown to Kimball Road [Staff response included] Kellie Fruehling From: Ron Knoche Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2018 5:24 PM To: jaho1972@yahoo.com' Cc: Council; Jason Havel; Melissa Clow Subject: RE: Gilbert Street from Brown to Kimball Road Mr. Hoist: Thank you for your email to Council. As the Gateway Project is getting close to completion, we will review the streets adjacent to the project corridor and address damage caused by the construction access. The 900 block of North Gilbert Street is identified on the unfunded projects list which is reviewed during the develop of the Capital Improvements Projects Program. We will start this review in October. If you have further questions, please feel free to contact me. Sincerely, Ron Ronald R. Knoche, PE Public Works Director City of Iowa City 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa Email: ron-knoche@iowa-city.org Phone: (319) 356-5138 Cell: (319) 430-3625 From: John Hoist [mailto:laho1972@yahoo.comj Sent: Thursday, August 30, 2018 10:11 PM To: Council <Council@iowa-city.org> Subject: Gilbert Street from Brown to Kimball Road Dear Representatives of Iowa City, We are adjacent to the Gateway project that has spent millions of taxpayer dollars on improving infrastructure and the roads or our city. Attached are pictures of our road with the continued neglect, on top of dump trucks and excavators using it as a "launching/descending" pad for the project. (One, even using the scoop to pull them selves up over the incline.) I invite our city representatives to take a drive down this road when you have a free chance. Take a look at the "filling in" of the huge cracks and other damage PCI did to our already dilapidated road. It's a disgrace. (I can provide those pictures too, if you want. But, it's better to see in person because it will at least give you a laugh.) UI students, even when this project is completed will continue to use this hill to walk to and from downtown or to campus. Cars will use it as a shortcut to and/or off of Dubuque street. Citizens and kids will still walk their dogs on it. No sidewalks. No speed bumps. Trees/bushes 4 foot over the crest/blind spot. Seems like a huge liability that the city clearly is not concerned about. I hope the city does not have to pay more of our tax money in a future multi-million dollar lawsuit when someone gets killed or injured on this hazardous road. Please, someone represent us, our neighbors, students and visitors. Regards, John and Kathleen Holst 916 N.Gilbert Iowa City, 52245 Item Number: 9.d. i r , CITY OF IOWA CITY UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE September 18, 2018 ATTACHMENTS: Description Alexandra Skores: Straw Ban [Staff response included] Kellie Fruehling From: Geoff Fruin Sent: Monday, September 03, 2018 8:22 PM To: Alexandra Skores; Council Subject: RE: Straw Ban Alexandra, Iowa City does not have a ban on straws. The State of Iowa does not allow cities to take such action. Best, Geoff Fruin City Manager From: Alexandra Skores <alexandra.skores@yahoo.com> Sent: Sunday, September 2, 2018 10:15 PM To: Council <Council@iowa-city.org> Subject: Straw Ban Hi, My name is Alexandra Skores and I am a news reporter for the Daily Iowan. I am looking to get more information on the city ordinance of the straw ban for the restaurants in Iowa City. Best, Alexandra Desiree Skores (she/her/hers) University of Iowa `21 Journalism and Mass Communications BA I Political Science BA I Criminology, Law, and Justice Minor News Reporter I The Daily Iowan Group Leader I On Iowa! Sisterhood Director Alpha Xi Delta 224-425-2752 1 alexandra-skores@uiowa.edu Item Number: 9.e. I r , CITY OF IOWA CITY UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE September 18, 2018 ATTACHMENTS: Description Alison Oliver: Vote No on current massage therapist ordinance proposal Kellie Fruehling From: Alison Oliver <iasw.alisonoliver@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, September 04, 2018 4:41 PM To: Council Subject: Vote No on current massage therapist ordinance proposal Dear Council Members, I am writing in haste since the current ordinance proposal to try to deter prostitution and sex trafficking is now in its final review and vote this evening. I speak as a former Director of Education at the Rape Victim Advocacy Program and as someone who has facilitated trainings on trafficking at the Iowa Coalition Against Sexual Assault trainings in Des Moines. I am concerned that the current language and potential reverberations of this ordinance might be potentially dangerous for those who are actually experiencing sexual exploitation and might be unnecessarily marginalizing for those in massage therapy or bodywork practice, especially for those who do not speak English as a first language. I did not see the operational definitions for "legitimate" or "illicit" businesses, which offers a wide range of interpretation. I also see little in the current language that offers parameters regarding implementation, nor a rationale of how the state regulations and oversight process regarding licensure for massage therapy is insufficient to the point of necessitating this particular ordinance. I apologize that I only recently became aware of this ordinance, or I would have contacted you much earlier. I am curious about the consultation that Council has had with local and state victim advocates to evaluate if this particular policy intervention would be the most effective method of regulation to interrupt or deter trafficking as well as how this ordinance might have unintended consequences for those experiencing sexual exploitation. Thank you for your time and attention to address and prevent sexual exploitation. Respectfully, Alison Oliver Item Number: 91. I r , CITY OF IOWA CITY UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE September 18, 2018 ATTACHMENTS: Description Mark Levine: First Avenue and bicycling safety [Staff response included] Kellie Fruehling From: Ron Knoche Sent: Thursday, September 06, 2018 8:49 AM To: 'malevinel7@gmail.com' Cc: Geoff Fruin; Kent Ralston; Council; Jason Havel Subject: RE: First Avenue and bicycling safety Mr. Levine: I was asked to respond to your email to Council. I am sorry to learn of your incident. Thank you for making us aware of the issue on First Avenue. We will make sure this type of situation is better addressed in the future. The City has developed a Bike Master Plan. The plan calls for a wide sidewalk along 11t Ave from Rochester Ave to the Court Hill Trail (where there is an existing wide sidewalk south to SE Junior High). At this time, this project is on the unfunded list. We will continue to move the plan forward as projects are developed and constructed in the future. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. Sincerely, Ron Ronald R. Knoche, PE Public Works Director City of Iowa City 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa Email: ron-knoche@iowa-citv.org Phone: (319) 356-5138 Cell: (319) 430-3625 From: Mark Levine <malevinel7@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, September 4, 2018 4:54 PM To: Geoff Fruin <Geoff-Fruin@iowa-city.org>; Council <Council@iowa-city.ore> Subject: First Avenue and bicycling safety Dear Mr. Fruin and City Council, First, my apologies if it would be more suitable for me to direct this letter to different parties in Iowa City government. I would ask that if that is the case, you might forward this message to the appropriate person or unit. I'm writing in response to a bicycle accident my 12 -year old son had two days ago, on September 2, on First Avenue in Iowa City, while he and I were returning home from a 25 mile bike ride on roads south of Iowa City. We had returned to town on the South Sycamore bike lane, taking the sidewalk path on Lower Muscatine and continuing on sidewalks from Mall Drive to First Avenue. On the west side sidewalk of First Avenue, I abruptly came upon a site in front of 715 South First Avenue where a small segment of sidewalk was being replaced. As the attached photo indicates, the break in the sidewalk was marked only with a strip of yellow tape strung across lengths of rebar. The work site is located underneath foliage and beside overgrown shrubs, and was not visible until I was immediately upon it. I managed to swerve onto the grass and stop; my son, who was riding behind me, had less response time and crashed to the sidewalk. He has deep abrasions—"road burn"—on his thigh, hand and shoulder on one side of his body, and sprained his wrist. I'm glad that was the extent of his injuries. To me, this incident calls attention to two issues. The first concerns inadequate safety measures taken at this particular site. This stretch of sidewalk on First Avenue, just north of where the Court Hill bike path crosses, sees considerable bike use, is located on a downhill slope for northbound cyclists, giving a cyclist less time to prepare to stop, and was obscured by shadows and foliage. It was obviously marked with no consideration for people on bicycles, and posed a substantial hazard. The second issue concerns the more general safety hazards for cyclists along First Avenue, which is a major artery not just for vehicles, but for students of several schools, including Southeastern Junior High, City High, Regina, and Kirkwood College. I'm particularly aware of this issue because my son began attending Southeastern Junior High a few weeks ago, and has been commuting to school by bicycle, which is the most viable mode of transportation from our house on Rochester Court—especially given the lack of a First Avenue bus route. First Avenue is simply too narrow to be safely shared by vehicles and bicycles, and it is not uncommon to see vehicles reacting in dangerous ways to the presence of bicycles on the road, particularly between Rochester and Muscatine. From our location, however, there are no alternative bike routes that would be safer. As a result, we have directed our son to ride on the First Avenue sidewalk, despite its being uneven, often in poor condition, and crossed by many driveways. What he and I encountered last Sunday, however, was yet another indication that the use of bicycles along First Avenue seems not to be a priority for planners. As someone who commutes to his office by bicycle, I know that Southeastern Junior High is far from the only major destination in Iowa City that is difficult to reach by bicycle. Indeed, the lack of adequate public transit to Southeastern, along with the lack of bicycle -friendly routes there, only contributes to the heavy traffic in the area at the start of the school day, which of course serves to heighten the hazards for those who are trying to use alternative means of transportation. I understand that these are not simple issues to address. But I would like to feel that my son and other children can get to and from school safely and independently, using one of the few means of transportation available to children their age, and one that is healthy and environmentally sustainable. In a place like Iowa City, it would be gratifying to feel that these children's interests are not subordinated to those of drivers. Thank you very much for your attention. Sincerely, Item Number: 9.g. I r , CITY OF IOWA CITY UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE September 18, 2018 ATTACHMENTS: Description Florence Boos; pls convey this to deer commission [Staff response included] Kellie Fruehling From: Jody Matherly Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2018 4:38 PM Late Handouts Distributed To: virginiamiller@uwalumni.com' Cc: Council Subject: FW: biking on sidewalks (Date) -� Virginia, Thank you for contacting us regarding riding bicycles on sidewalks. We are glad to hear that you and your family are experiencing the joys of bicycling and the benefits it brings. The Iowa City city code regulates the operation of bicycles with a sense of safety in mind. It is legal to ride bicycles on most sidewalks when done in a prudent and careful manner. So riding on the sidewalks from your home to downtown is legal. However, once you reach downtown the law changes. City code does prohibit riding bicycles on sidewalks in the central business district as defined in 9-8-1. In addition, under 10-5-3 it is illegal to ride bicycles in the City Plaza, also known as the ped mall (the area on College between Clinton and Lynn and Dubuque between College and Washington). So, when you reach the intersection of Burlington St. and Capitol St and do not desire to ride on the street with traffic, you have a couple of options to comply with the law: 1) dismount and walk your bicycle to the library 2) To continue to ride on sidewalks, cross Burlington St at Madison St, ride the sidewalks to Court St and then to Linn, St, then to Burlington St. That is just a couple extra blocks and then a very short walk to the library. 9-8-1: OPERATION OF BICYCLES E. Riding On Sidewalk: 1. No person shall ride a bicycle upon a sidewalk in the central downtown business district. The central downtown business district is the area bounded by and including Capitol Street to the west, Burlington Street to the south, Gilbert Street to the east, and Jefferson Street to the north. (Ord. 97-3788, 6-3-1997) 2. Whenever any person is riding a bicycle upon a sidewalk, such person shall yield the right of way to any pedestrian and shall give audible signal before overtaking and passing such pedestrian. (1978 Code §23-64; amd. Ord. 97-3765, 1-14-1997) 10-5-3: BICYCLE AND NONMOTORIZED VEHICLE RESTRICTIONS: A. Bicycles: No person shall ride a bicycle within the City Plaza; no bicycles shall be left unattended within City Plaza unless located in a bicycle rack; no bicycle shall be locked or affixed to any post or structure other than a bicycle rack. If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact us. Jody L 9Wathefyr Chief of Police Iowa City, Iowa Fair o- 319-356-5271 Responsive Prafessional From: Virginia Miller <virginiamiller uwalumni.com> Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2018 9:02 AM To: Council <Council@iowa-citv.ore> Subject: biking on sidewalks Hello IC council - I have a question: lately when my kids want to go to the library we have been riding our bikes to get there. We make the trip 1-2 times per week. My 8 year old rides on his own bike, and my 5 year old rides behind me on a tagalong. We ride on the sidewalks the entire trip from our house in University Heights, down Melrose, across the pedestrian bridge (where we dismount and walk) and then up the hill to downtown. It is not safe for us to ride in the street. We aren't traveling fast enough to keep up with car traffic and my kids are not smart or coordinated enough to keep clear of cars. I see that yesterday Ryan Hall was issued a citation for riding on the sidewalk, which makes me concerned for our own trips downtown. I don't want to be cited for riding on the sidewalk, but it isn't safe for us in the streets. What would you recommend we do? Thanks, Virginia Miller I r , CITY OF IOWA CITY UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE September 18, 2018 ATTACHMENTS: Description Bob Oppliger: Bike lanes Item Number: 9.h. Kellie Fruehlin From: bob oppliger <boboppliger@gmail.com> Sent: Sunday, September 09, 2018 9:13 AM To: Council Subject: Bike lanes Dear City Council Thanks for adding bike lanes on 1st ave and Mormon Trek. As a resident living off south Sycamore, I use the 1st ave bike lane regularly commuting to 1st ave HyVee and the businesses in that area. It offers a much safer commute especially as PG and other businesses do afternoon shift changes. Weather permitting I will use the lanes year round to do the couple miles for grocery shopping. The bike path along Highway 6 also provides safety benefits and expeditious travel for bikers. The abundance of rain this summer has offered me another perk. In the summer months, almost daily I do an hour long morning bike ride. This frequently takes me down the Sycamore Trail. The rain has generated an abundance of compass plants asters, wild bergamot, and milkweed and recently health stands of little bluestem. It makes the ride most enjoyable especially when I catch a south wind on the return leg. I look forward to the addition of bike lanes into downtown along Gilbert and Summit to ease the commute. I think it will be well received. Bob Oppliger Education & Advocacy Coordinator Bicyclists of Iowa City & Member, Board of Directors League of American Bicyclists I r , ,xl Mom CITY OF IOWA CITY UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE September 18, 2018 ATTACHMENTS: Description Robert Dostal - Issues Item Number: 9.i. ALBERT EINSTEIN SAID THAT WITHOUT IMAGINATION THERE COULD BE NO INTELLIGENCE. IF EINSTEIN HAD LIVED IN IOWA CITY, HE WOULD HAVE SAID THAT IMAGINATION IS THE PATH TO STUPIDITY. .In Iowa City, POBLIC ART = PUBLIC UGLINESS. Don't do it. After some 40 years, benches on the pedestrian mall were covered with vulgar designs done in gloss enamel. The paint soon flaked off. As I remember, the last time I was uptown, local morons were at work repeating the mistake. And coming soon to that garfed up part of town: THE LENZ, $0.5M thing that those who contributed to its creation say is art. It belongs in the city dump. Do benches in metal or treated wood. .The tunnel under the tracks should have happened some 60 years ago when S. Riverside was expanded from 2 to 4 lanes. Walk the subject area and discover first hand the curse on pedestrians and cyclists. I suggest "walk lights" added to the junction of Hwys. 1 & 6 and in the center of the distance from the junction to Benton and the junction to Orchard. .The meetings are masterstrokes of exposition. ROBERT G. DOST+4L 326 Douglass St. Iowa City IA 52246 a:a �^ ////�, ALBERT EINSTEIN SAID THAT WITHOUT IMAGINATION THERE COULD BE NO INTELLIGENCE. IF EINSTEIN HAD LIVED IN IOWA CITY, HE WOULD HAVE SAID THAT IMAGINATION IS THE PATH TO STUPIDITY. .In Iowa City, POBLIC ART = PUBLIC UGLINESS. Don't do it. After some 40 years, benches on the pedestrian mall were covered with vulgar designs done in gloss enamel. The paint soon flaked off. As I remember, the last time I was uptown, local morons were at work repeating the mistake. And coming soon to that garfed up part of town: THE LENZ, $0.5M thing that those who contributed to its creation say is art. It belongs in the city dump. Do benches in metal or treated wood. .The tunnel under the tracks should have happened some 60 years ago when S. Riverside was expanded from 2 to 4 lanes. Walk the subject area and discover first hand the curse on pedestrians and cyclists. I suggest "walk lights" added to the junction of Hwys. 1 & 6 and in the center of the distance from the junction to Benton and the junction to Orchard. .The meetings are masterstrokes of exposition. ROBERT G. DOST+4L 326 Douglass St. Iowa City IA 52246 i r MOM CITY OF IOWA CITY UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE September 18, 2018 ATTACHMENTS: Description Virginia Miller - biking on sidewalks Item Number: 9.j. q-J Kellie Fruehling From: Jody Matherly Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2018 4:38 PM Late Handouts Distributed To: 'virginiamiller@uwalumni.com' Cc: Council Subject: FW: biking on sidewalks 1 ` 1'1,1g (Date) Virginia, Thank you for contacting us regarding riding bicycles on sidewalks. We are glad to hear that you and your family are experiencing the joys of bicycling and the benefits it brings.The Iowa City city code regulates the operation of bicycles with a sense of safety in mind. It is legal to ride bicycles on most sidewalks when done in a prudent and careful manner. So riding on the sidewalks from your home to downtown is legal. However, once you reach downtown the law changes. City code does prohibit riding bicycles on sidewalks in the central business district as defined in 9-8-1. In addition, under 10-5-3 it is illegal to ride bicycles in the City Plaza,also known as the ped mall (the area on College between Clinton and Lynn and Dubuque between College and Washington). So, when you reach the intersection of Burlington St. and Capitol St and do not desire to ride on the street with traffic,you have a couple of options to comply with the law: 1) dismount and walk your bicycle to the library 2) To continue to ride on sidewalks,cross Burlington St at Madison St, ride the sidewalks to Court St and then to Linn, St,then to Burlington St. That is just a couple extra blocks and then a very short walk to the library. 9-8-1: OPERATION OF BICYCLES E. Riding On Sidewalk: 1. No person shall ride a bicycle upon a sidewalk in the central downtown business district.The central downtown business district is the area bounded by and including Capitol Street to the west, Burlington Street to the south, Gilbert Street to the east, and Jefferson Street to the north. (Ord. 97-3788, 6-3-1997) 2. Whenever any person is riding a bicycle upon a sidewalk, such person shall yield the right of way to any pedestrian and shall give audible signal before overtaking and passing such pedestrian. (1978 Code§23-64; amd. Ord. 97-3765, 1-14-1997) 10-5-3: BICYCLE AND NONMOTORIZED VEHICLE RESTRICTIONS: A. Bicycles: No person shall ride a bicycle within the City Plaza; no bicycles shall be left unattended within City Plaza unless located in a bicycle rack; no bicycle shall be locked or affixed to any post or structure other than a bicycle rack. If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact us. Jody L.Matrrry Chief of Police Iowa City, Iowa Fair o-319-356-5271 Responsive Professional facebook y ; :? 1 From:Virginia Miller<virginiamiller@uwalumni.com> Sent:Thursday,September 13, 2018 9:02 AM To:Council<Council@iowa-city.org> Subject: biking on sidewalks Hello IC council - I have a question: lately when my kids want to go to the library we have been riding our bikes to get there.We make the trip 1-2 times per week. My 8 year old rides on his own bike,and my 5 year old rides behind me on a tagalong.We ride on the sidewalks the entire trip from our house in University Heights, down Melrose, across the pedestrian bridge (where we dismount and walk) and then up the hill to downtown. It is not safe for us to ride in the street.We aren't traveling fast enough to keep up with car traffic and my kids are not smart or coordinated enough to keep clear of cars. I see that yesterday Ryan Hall was issued a citation for riding on the sidewalk,which makes me concerned for our own trips downtown. I don't want to be cited for riding on the sidewalk, but it isn't safe for us in the streets.What would you recommend we do? Thanks, Virginia Miller 2 Kellie Fruehling From: Virginia Miller <virginiamiller@uwalumni.com> Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2018 9:02 AM To: Council Subject: biking on sidewalks Hello IC council - I have a question: lately when my kids want to go to the library we have been riding our bikes to get there. We make the trip 1-2 times per week. My 8 year old rides on his own bike, and my 5 year old rides behind me on a tagalong. We ride on the sidewalks the entire trip from our house in University Heights, down Melrose, across the pedestrian bridge (where we dismount and walk) and then up the hill to downtown. It is not safe for us to ride in the street. We aren't traveling fast enough to keep up with car traffic and my kids are not smart or coordinated enough to keep clear of cars. I see that yesterday Ryan Hall was issued a citation for riding on the sidewalk, which makes me concerned for our own trips downtown. I don't want to be cited for riding on the sidewalk, but it isn't safe for us in the streets. What would you recommend we do? Thanks, Virginia Miller Item Number: 9.k. I r , CITY OF IOWA CITY UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE September 18, 2018 ATTACHMENTS: Description Bonnie Riggan: Request for exception to City Code for prohibited animals Kellie Fruehling From: bonnieriggan@yahoo.com Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2018 9:42 AM To: Council Subject: Request for exception to City Code for prohibited animals Attachments: Document (1).docx Dear Iowa City Councilmembers, Please see the attached document, a formal request for an exception to the City Code (Sec. 8-4) pertaining to prohibited animals. Sincerely, Bonnie Riggan 1380 Dodge Street Court Iowa City, IA 52245 319-321-6904 Sent from Yahoo Mail for Wad City of Iowa City Attn: City Council Members 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 September 9, 2018 Dear City of Iowa City Councilmembers, I am writing to request an exception to the Iowa City Code, 8-4-6, as relates to prohibited animals. I request that you grant an exception to the code section regarding prohibited animals. I request that I be allowed to apply for a permit to keep two Nigerian Dwarf wethered male goats on my farm located within the city limits of Iowa City. These are two healthy domesticated animals that cannot serve as livestock as they cannot be bred or milked and the breed is not suited for use as meat. The rationale to support the exception is two -fold. First, the property at 1380 Dodge Street Court is large and isolated. Animals can be kept with no possibility of creating a nuisance or hazard to any person or animal. This property consists of over three acres at the end of a dead end street. Adjoining properties include a 16 acre land trust with no homes on it and privately owned properties where the houses are hundreds of yards away through dense woodlands. The property is currently fenced in such a way that it would be impossible for the goats to get out. The goats would be housed in a fenced pen with a wire fence 60 inches tall. That pen is located inside of a 20,000 square foot garden area surrounded by a 7.5 foot deer fence thus preventing any possibility that these goats could present a nuisance or hazard to any human or animal. The second point of rationale supporting this exception is the property at 1380 Dodge Street Court is currently and has historically been registered as a farm by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (Farm number 6156 Tract Number 8715). There are horses housed very near us on Dubuque Road, and it is assumed they are allowed because that land is zoned Agricultural. Similarly, an exception could be reasoned for 1380 Dodge Street Court, land that is a registered farm, which, like the Agricultural zoning, provides a justification that would prevent a problematic precedent. I request your thoughtful consideration of this request for an exception that will create neither a nuisance nor harm to any person or animal and that will also not create a troublesome precedent. I look forward to your positive response. With Respect, Bonnie Riggan Calico Farm 1380 Dodge Street Court Iowa City, IA 52245 I r , ,xl Mom CITY OF IOWA CITY UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE September 18, 2018 Kinnick House ATTACHMENTS: Description Kinnick Douse Correspondence Item Number: 9.1. q.l Kellie Fruehling From: Karin Southard <karin.southard@gmail.com> Late Handouts Distributed Sent: Friday, September 14, 2018 7:52 AM To: Council Subject: Please support Rockne's proposal (Daattee)-� Dear Councilors, I am asking you all to please support Rockne's proposal dated September io, 2o18 so that you can help prevent another "Kinnick house" from occurring in ANY Iowa City residential neighborhood. Thank you for your support. Karin Southard Kellie Fruehling From: kbefeler <kbefeler@gmail.com> Late Handouts Distributed Sent: Friday, September 14, 2018 8:54 AM To: Council; Dennis Befeler Subject: RE: Mini-Kinnick House CA 1-A (—Daae)) Dear Council, Please support Rockne Cole's proposal, dated September 10, 2018, to help prevent another "Kinnick house" development from happening in ANY Iowa City residential neighborhood. Thank you, Kasey & Dennis Befeler 234 Hutchinson Ave Iowa City, IA 52246 R. f Kellie Fruehling From: Sonia Ettinger <spcettinger@yahoo.com> Late Handouts Distributed Sent: Friday, September 14, 2018 9:37 AM To: Council Cc: Karin Southard Subject: Infill regulations (Date) The construction of the now infamous Kinnick House has highlighted several issues which should be considered for any future projects. From the beginning, it was quite obvious that this was an entertainment venue. As the existing classifications for construction were only for residential and commercial, it was allowed under residential, despite requests for variance.. The city needs an extra classification for building such venues. It is therefore necessary for the City to allow a variance when many, affected neighbors request a detailed examination of a project. This is essential when an "infill" project is being promoted. The City can regulate procedures by having a "trigger" that flags projects by a percentage, that exceed local standards of height, footprint, location, plumbing, traffic and erosion to name a few. The City's quasi-judicial boards must have their own legal representation, which is not that for the City staff. This legal person could assist with training these members in the formal procedures required for proper operation of discussions and voting. Also these Boards must be allowed to have the full complement of representatives to prevent a tied decision, as was the case for the Kinnick House, where one member was missing. The City Council must require that the City staff update its regulations in order to protect Iowa City from another poor decision. Iowa City has many different constituents- it is a family town, a safe town for older people wanting to retire here because of the various cultural activities, a student town and a town that receives intermittent influxes of visitors. The City staff needs to consider all these complexities when planning for the future. One hopes that the City Council will assist the staff in crafting appropriate regulations for the future needs of the Iowa City population . Sincerely Sonia Ettinger long term resident Kellie Fruehling From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Patricia Koza <trishkza@gmail.com> Friday, September 14, 2018 11:38 AM Rockne Cole Council Thank you Late Handouts Distributed \ice �1 Mqt(�) Dear Rockne: All of us in the neighborhood appreciate the time you have spent with us and the time you have devoted to formulating your suggestions to your fellow councilors. I hope they will agree that these are simple and reasonable things to implement. Sincerely, Trish Koza PS I would add a personal wish: Infill projects that demolish public sidewalks MUST restore them. Many of us will miss the portion of the Lusk Avenue sidewalk that has been destroyed. c�, C Kellie Frueh From: Southard, Thomas E <tom-Southard@uiowa.edu> Sent: Friday, September 14, 2018 2:22 PM To: Council Cc: Rockne Cole Subject: Please support a Council work session as proposed by KDO)Cole Dear Iowa City Council members, Please support Councilman Rockne Cole's proposal (dated September 10, 2018) for a Kinnick House Work Session. This is important for all of Iowa City's neighborhoods. Thank you. Tom Southard Kellie Fruehlina From: Rushton, Gerard <gerard-rushton@uiowa.edu> Sent: Saturday, September 15, 2018 9:59 AM Late Handouts Distributed To: Council Cc: Rockne Cole Subject: Support uniform application of existing zoning rules cl 1i-� 11'I (Date) Dear members of Iowa City Council. We urge you to support the uniform application of existing zoning rules across Iowa City as described in Rockne's memo of September 10. We do not support the city granting approval for development of so-called party houses being designated as residences as was approved in 2016 at 101 Lusk Ave in Manville Heights. Gerard & Carolyn Rushton 215 Lexington Ave Iowa City Telephone (319) 351-8604 M Kellie Fruehling From: Rebecca Porter <jsdillon@mchsi.com> Sent: Sunday, September 16, 2018 10:08 PM Late Handouts Distributed To: Council Subject: Endorsing work session proposed by Rockne Cole Dear City Council, (Date) We are pleased that Councilor Rockne Cole recently proposed a work session specifically to develop a process to evaluate new "in -fill" projects when those projects lie outside the usual residential community/neighborhood standards — such as the structure at 101 Lusk Avenue. In particular, we strongly endorse the following: • the creation of an "outlier threshold" that triggers specific review — including a neighborhood hearingrip or to granting a demolition and/or building or permit. This process would, I envision, be similar to the notice that is sent to neighbors when a proposed building variance is requested. Perhaps notifications should be sent to neighborhood associations in addition to the neighbors in immediate proximity to the proposed "in -fill" project; that the "outlier threshold" should be triggered when a proposed structural footprint on a lot along with an analysis of anticipated capacity of the proposed building exceeds nearby homes by a given percentage. Esthetic appeal aside, particular attention should be paid to safety issues (ability of multiple first responders to actually reach the structure; increased strain on neighborhood parking; `tourist' traffic to look at the structure; impact of increased traffic on neighborhood safety). functionally separating the Legal department and City Manager's office from both advising, representing and selecting legal representation with the quasi-judicial Boards. The purposes of the structure at 101 Lusk Avenue are to clearly function as an entertainment venue and to draw attention simply because it is a replica of a popular sports venue. It is highly visible from multiple locations — including driving along Highway 6 by the VA Hospital and along Woolf Avenue, Bayard Street and Lexington Street. Unless you take immediate action, a comparable venue could be built in any Iowa City Neighborhood — threatening the integrity of that neighborhood exactly as this structure has impacted the safety and integrity of Manville Heights. Sincerely, Rebecca Porter and Joseph Dillon 42S Hutchinson Avenue Kellie Fruehling From: Sent: To: Mary Cilek <marymcilek@gmail.com> Sunday, September 16, 2018 8:13 PM Council Subject: Rockne Cole's Work Session Proposal Late Handouts Distributed Dear members of the City Council, (Date) Below is a photo of the newest "single family home" in my friendly, established, pleasant, livable, neighborhood. I do not believe this structure is a "home" where a "single family" is going to reside. I hope that you will support Rockne Cole's proposal for a work session to consider procedures that might control such future development in our Iowa City neighborhoods. Thank you for your service and your attention on this matter. Sincerely, Mary Cilek 9.1 Kellie Fruehling From: Craig Syrop <craigsyrop@icloud.com> Late Handouts Distributed Sent: Sunday, September 16, 2018 7:28 PM To: Council Cc: Craig Syrop; Anne G Sadler Subject: endorsement for a work session as outlined by Rockne Co (Date) We want to voice my strongest possible support for the Council to hold work sessions to consider and address all of the points proposed by Mr Rockne Cole. Specifically, we highlight the concepts of: i)setting triggers for a " variance" type review when infill development or significant additions exceed a yet to be established community standard for size or volume related to original construction and that this apply to infill, a split or subdivision of existing lots. 2)Establishing criteria for identifying and classifying " residential' entertainment venues and resolving the safety issues involved. Finally, I request that any extension of non -conformity for safety codes to infill ( not lot use/ frontage/ size) which would otherwise apply to new construction ( such as attachment of a sewer that is not independent ) at a minimum require a review and notification of involved neighbors. Thank you for your consideration. Craig H Syrop Anne G Sadler q.I Kellie Fruehlin From: Kerber, Linda K <Lnda-kerber@uiowa.edu> Sent: Saturday, September 15, 2018 11:20 PM Late Handouts Distributed To: Council Subject: Endorsing a Work Session proposed by Rockne Cole Dear members of the Iowa City Council, (Date) I have been delighted to learn that Rockne Cole has proposed a work session to develop a fresh evaluation process when new building -to -surrounding property scale exceeds a community standard; and that an "outlier threshold" be created that would require a review and neighborhood hearing, akin to a variance request prior to granting a permit. To avoid conflict of interest, the City's quasi-judicial Boards should function independently of the City Manager. I am writing to endorse his proposal as strongly as I can. The health of our community requires, I believe, that we avoid in the future the tensions and anxieties that have surrounded the creation of the new building at 101 Lusk Avenue. I walked past it today and was stunned to find that it is easily seen from Woolf Avenue. The house is built virtually to the lot line, which none of the other houses in the neighborhood are. This matter has real urgency; it affects all neighborhoods in Iowa City, not simply those close to the athletic stadiums. It is invigorating to learn that the Council can revisit this important matter. Sincerely, Linda K. Kerber 425 Lexington Avenue, Iowa City 52246 q. l Kellie Fruehling From: Jean Hogan <scoutbelieve@gmail.com> Late Handouts Distributed Sent: Saturday, September 15, 2018 8:43 AM To: Council Subject: Regarding Rockne's proposal dated Sept 10, 2018 car �-l�\� (Date) Dear Council I am writing to ask your support of Mr Rockne's proposal dated Sept 10, 2018. 1 would like to see a trigger process added to aid in discerning appropriate developments within neighborhoods, ie entertainment venue type structures. Gratefully, Jean Hogan 200 Ferson Ave Iowa City IA 5224 9.1 Kellie Fruehling From: Merchant, Mary L <mary-merchant@uiowa.edu> Late HandoutS�3������, Sent: Friday, September 14, 2018 5:09 PM To: Council Subject: Rockne's proposal (Date) Please support Rockne's proposal and help prevent another kinick stadium house from being built in any neighborhood. Just because people have loads of money doesn't mean they can do whatever they want disregarding their neighbors. Mary Merchant Sent from my Whone gvWx Kellie Fruehling From: crossi@mchsi.com Sent: Friday, September 14, 2018 3:45 PM To: Council Subject: sept. 10 work session proposal Please give all due consideration to scheduling a work session per Rockne's Sept. lo. suggestion. Sincerely, CR Rossi Kellie Fruehling From: Sent: To: Subject: Dear Councilors of Iowa City: joannemadsenic@gmail.com Monday, September 17, 2018 10:40 AM Council "Kinnick House" on Lusk Avenue q.( Late Handouts Distributed 9L -7-L-? (Date) We are writing to strongly endorse Rockne Cole's proposed work session regarding lessons to be learned from the building of the Kinnick house. Trust between the residents and the City is an obvious prerequisite for community well- being. We believe that the outline developed by Councilor Cole is an excellent point of departure. All of Iowa City's neighborhoods have a big stake in this. Thank you for giving this your serious attention. Sincerely, Joanne and Douglas Madsen 244 Woolf Avenue Iowa City, IA 52246-2440 Kellie Fruehling From: Sent: To: Subject: Council Members: amatkinson@mchsi.com Monday, September 17, 2018 11:37 AM Council Work session q, C Late Handouts Distributed ►,I►q (Date) Thank you for considering a work session to discuss the issues that have been created by the approval and construction of the entertainment focused `Kinnick House.' Establishing criteria to trigger a closer review of potential violations such as sensitive areas, fire safety and traffic concerns would lead to better control of such buildings and their location in residential neighborhoods. Thank you for your service, Alice Atkinson 219 Lee Street 1 l Kellie Fruehling From: Catherine Erickson <catherinerickson@gmail.com> Late Handouts Distributed Sent: Monday, September 17, 2018 12:15 PM To: Council Subject: Work Session Endorsement Dear members of the Iowa City Council, have been delighted to learn that Rockne Cole has proposed a work session to develop a fresh evaluation process when new building -to -surrounding property scale exceeds a community standard; and that an "outlier threshold" be created that would require a review and neighborhood hearing, akin to a variance request prior to granting a permit. To avoid conflict of interest, the City's quasi-judicial Boards should function independently of the City Manager. I am writing to endorse his proposal as strongly as I can. The health of our community requires, I believe, that we avoid in the future the tensions and anxieties that have surrounded the creation of the new building at 101 Lusk Avenue. I live very near the "home" at 101 Lusk Avenue and continue to be shocked by the size of the structure on its lot. The house is built virtually to the lot line, which none of the other houses in the neighborhood are. This matter has real urgency; it affects all neighborhoods in Iowa City, not simply those close to the athletic stadiums. If it can happen in my neighborhood, it could happen anywhere. It is invigorating to learn that the Council can revisit this important matter. Sincerely, Catherine Erickson 11 Rowland Court, Iowa City q+I Kellie Fruehling From: Katherine Moyers <katherinemoyers@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, September 17, 2018 5:19 PM Late Handouts Distributed To: Council Subject: Supporting Rockne Cole's Proposal (101 Lusk Avenue) Dear Council Members, (Date) We are writing to wholeheartedly support Rockne Cole's proposal to develop a new evaluation process when new building -to -surrounding -property scale exceeds a community standard. It is important to include an "outlier threshold" that would require a review and neighborhood hearing. We also support the idea that the quasi-judicial boards function independently of the City Manager. No residential neighborhood in our city should have to accommodate a building like this. Mr. Cole's proposal will help provide the protection Iowa City residents expect from their city government from this kind of encroachment. Sincerely, Katherine and John Moyers 417 Hutchinson Avenue Iowa City, IA. 52246 319-338-2693 Item Number: 9.m. I r , ,xl Mom CITY OF IOWA CITY UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE September 18, 2018 Minimum Wage Increase ATTACHMENTS: Description Minimum Wage Increase correspondence 9.rvt Kellie Fruehling T , TT .3_-_ -3 From: Hirst, Donna L < donna- hirst@uiowa.edu> Sent: Monday, September 17, 2018 3:47 PM To: Council Subject: Minimum Wage (Date) I strongly support the plan to move Iowa City public employees from the current wage rate to a $15.00 minimum. Donna Hirst 810 N Linn Iowa City, IA 52245 351-5253 Kellie Fruehling From: A. Joseph Wyse <wyse888@gmail.com> Late Handouts Distributed Sent: Monday, September 17, 2018 3:49 PM To: Council Subject: Minimum Wage Increase ... -7 il? Honorable City Council Members -- (Date) I respectfully urge you to approve a plan immediately to begin moving Iowa City public employees from poverty wages to a $15 minimum. Jobs with dignity improve the community for us all ! Thank you :-) A. Joseph Wyse Ecumenical Towers Resident -- #7C Kellie Fruehling From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Dear Iowa City Council members: ccepting@aol.com Monday, September 17, 2018 3:50 PM Council rafael@cwjiowa.org Living wages... q ,rn Late Handouts Distributee (Date) Thank you for the important discussions you are soon to have on Iowa City public employees wages. Let me encourage you to move now from the near -poverty wages some of these valued workers now receive to a living wage of at least $15 an hour. We citizens will "have your back" if you make this courageous decision! C. Christopher Epting VII Bishop of Iowa (ret) 86 Broadmoor Lane Iowa City 52245 1 Kellie Fruehling From: ann zerkel <annzerkel@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, September 18, 2018 4:28 PM To: Council Subject: A $15 Minimum Wage is Minimal Justice! late Handouts Distnbutea How wonderful that our Iowa City Council wants to discuss a $15 Minimum Wage! `\%\\`6 Jobs that offer dignity to workers dignify us all.. (Date) Thank you for tackling this difficult issue, Ann Zerkel 1110 East Washington Street for 39 years 1