HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-10-16 Bd Comm minutesItem Number: 5.a.
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CITY Ok 10WA CITY
www.icgov.org
October 16, 2018
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Community Police Review Board: September 11
Final/Approved
COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW BOARD
MINUTES — September 11, 2018
CALL TO ORDER: Chair Townsend called the meeting to order at 5:31 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Monique Galpin, Don King, David Semler
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Staff Chris Olney, Legal Counsel Patrick Ford
STAFF ABSENT: None
OTHERS PRESENT: Iowa City Police Captain Denise Brotherton
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL
None.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Motion by Galpin, seconded by Selmer, to adopt the consent calendar as amended.
• Minutes of the meeting on 08/21/18
• ICPD General Orders 95-04 (Administration of Department Training)
Motion carried, 4/0.
NEW BUSINESS
Select Nominating Committee — Galpin and Selmer volunteered to be on the nominating committee.
They will report back to the Board with recommendations for Chair and Vice Chair at the next meeting.
OLD BUSINESS
King presented a memo regarding suggested changes to the ICPD General Order 95-04
(Administrative Department Training). Captain Brotherton will forward suggestions onto the Police
Chief.
Proposed Ordinance Change — Selmer reported that he had attended the City Council meeting on
August 7th to present a brief synopsis of the memo sent to Council regarding the Board's proposed
ordinance change.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION
None.
BOARD INFORMATION
Galpin asked about the status of the Board vacancy. Olney stated the appointment was on the
September 18th City Council agenda.
STAFF INFORMATION
None.
CPRB
September 11, 2018
Page 2
TENTATIVE MEETING SCHEDULE and FUTURE AGENDAS (subiect to change)
• October 9, 2018, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm.
• November 13, 2018, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm.
• December 11, 2018, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm
• January 8, 2019, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm
ADJOURNMENT
Motion for adjournment by Selmer, seconded by Galpin.
Motion carried, 4/0.
Meeting adjourned at 5:44 P.M.
COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW BOARD
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2017-2018
ee ing Date
KEY: X =
TERM
10/10
11/14
12/7
1/9/18
2/13/18
3/19/18
4/17/18
4/23/18
5/8/18
6/12/18
7/23/18
8/21/18
9/11/18
NAME
EXP.
Mazahir
7/1/21
X
X
O/E
---
---
----
----
------
-----
Salih
-------
-------
------
------
Donald
7/1/19
X
X
X
O
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
King
Monique
7/1/20
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Galpin
Orville
7/1/20
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Townsend
Royceann
7/1/21
----
----
----
----
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
O/E
------
------
-----
Porter
David
7/1/21
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O
X
Selmer
KEY: X =
Present
O =
Absent
O/E =
Absent/Excused
NM =
No meeting
--- =
Not a Member
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CITY Ok 10WA CITY
www.icgov.org
October 16, 2018
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Library Board of Trustees -August 23
Item Number: 5.b.
►' IOWA CITY
l PUBLIC LIBRARY
123 S. Linn St. • Iowa City, IA 52240
mrcrTm Susan Craig • vwor,r 319.3565200 • ru 319.3565494. w .kptorg
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Minutes of the Regular Meeting FINAL APPROVED
August 23, 2018
Members Present: Diane Baker, Wesley Beary, John Beasley (in at 5:07 pm), Janet Freeman (by phone),
Carol Kirsch, Robin Paetzold, Jay Semel.
Members Absent: Kellee Forkenbrock, Monique Washington
Staff Present: Maeve Clark, Susan Craig, Melody Dworak, Kara Logsden, Anne Mangano, Patty
McCarthy, Elyse Miller, Brent Palmer, Jason Paulios, Angela Pilkington.
Guests Present: RL Birla.
Call Meeting to Order. President Paetzold called the meeting to order at 5:00 pm.
Public Discussion: President Paetzold introduced Wesley Beary, our newest Board member who was
appointed to fill Adam Ingersoll's position. Beary introduced himself. Board members went around the
table and introduced themselves.
Approval of Minutes.
The minutes of the July 26, 2018 Regular Meeting of the Library Board of Trustees were reviewed. A
motion to approve the Regular Minutes was made by Baker and seconded by Semel. Motion carried
6/0.
Items for Discussion/Action.
Library Annual Report. The annual report reflects the activities of the library for FY18. The Library
Board's FY18 annual report was discussed and approved at the July meeting. Craig said this year has
been good and busy and she believes we will once again be the busiest public library in Iowa this year.
Semel asked if there are ways to determine the health of a library through its annual report. Craig said
she sees the annual report as an historical record. She said a person could look at ten years of annual
reports to get a sense of the success or health of a library. Paetzold said the Kanopy numbers surprised
her. Mangano said usage is more than we expected.
Amend FY19 Strategic Plan. An amended FY19 Strategic Plan to correct the omission of considering
changes to channel 20 in the Technology section of the plan presented last month required Board
approval. Craig provided a brief history of the library's cable channel. A motion to approve the
amended FY19 Strategic Plan was made by Semel and seconded by Kirsch. Motion carried 7/0.
Historical Newspapers. Melody Dworak, Librarian in Collection Services, previewed the digitally archived
newspapers, now available online at ICPL. So far, these newspapers have been accessed more than 400
times. Newspapers printed between 1820 to 1929 are included in this digital archive. Dworak said it is a
boon for historical resources and researchers and it is free to everyone, everywhere.
Staff Reports.
Director's Report. Craig said the Proclamation for National Library Card Month (September) was
presented at both the City Council and the Johnson County Board of Supervisors meetings on 8/21/18.
North Library, Coralville, Oxford, and ICPL were represented at the County. Staff are working on the
FY20 budget which the Board will see at the September meeting. City Council members are talking
about raising the minimum wage for hourly workers; Parks & Recreation and ICPL employ the most
hourly workers in the City. The City estimates the increase to $15.00 per hour would cost almost a
million dollars a year. Phasing in the wage change would be different than changing all hourly workers
to $15.00 at the same time. Several City departments applied together for Bicycle Friendly Business
status from the League of American Bicyclists and have received that designation.
Departmental Reports:
Children's Services. No comments.
Collection Services. No comments.
IT. No comments.
Development Office Report. McCarthy said the next Eat out to Read fundraising event is September 19
at Hudson's. McCarthy said it was a good year for the Friends Foundation and thanked everyone for
their support.
Business Office annual report. No comments.
Facilities Services annual report. No comments.
Spotlight on the Collection. No comments.
Miscellaneous. No comments.
President's Report. President Paetzold announced the Board dinner is postponed until the September
meeting date (9/27). Paetzold mentioned the ILA conference and efforts to be more trustee inclusive.
Paetzold asked members to consider attending some of the sessions. She said the outstanding trustee
of the year award is being revived; nominations are welcome . President Paetzold mentioned the
Unconscious Bias training offered by the City on 9/13 from 5:30-7:00 pm, with dinner included. She
encouraged others to attend and believes it is useful to explore how decisions are affected by
unconscious bias.
Announcements from Members. John Beasley shared that the Beasleys, Washington, and Clark began
gardening on land Doug and Linda Paul own where a previous garden had been abandoned. Over the
years the space has been transformed with the help of volunteers and on August 4 there was a
fundraiser for the Friends Foundation in the garden; dinner was prepared and served using produce
from the garden. Twenty-four reservations brought in $1,800.
Committee Reports.
Foundation Members. No meeting. Meet next week.
Director Search Committee. Paetzold has been sending updates. A formal confidentiality document has
been prepared for each search committee member to sign. Two staff members, Anne Mangano and
Jason Paulios, have been appointed to the Director Search Committee.
Communications. None.
Disbursements.
The MasterCard expenditures for July, 2018 were reviewed. A motion to approve the disbursements for
July, 2018 was made by Semel and seconded by Kirsch. Motion carried 7/0.
Set Agenda Order for September Meeting.
Board dinner.
Budget discussion.
A member of the public, R.L. Birla, addressed the Board and has some suggestions for improving
revenue and patron involvement in the library. He has also spoken with Stacey McKim.
Adjournment. A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Baker and seconded by Kirsch. Motion
carried 7/0. President Paetzold closed the meeting at 5:52 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Elyse Miller
Board or Commission: ICPL Board of Trustees
ATTENDANCE RECORD
12 Month
KEY:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
MeetingDate
Name
Term
Expiration
11/16/17
12/4/17
12/21/17
1/25/18
2/22/18
3/22/18
4/26/18
5/24/18
6/28/18
7/26/18
8/23/18
9/27/18
Diane Baker
6/30/19
x
x
x
x
O
O/E
x
x
x
x
x
x
Wesley Beary
6/30/21
Not on Board
X
X
John Beasley
6/30/21
O/E
x
o
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Kellee
Forkenbrock
6/30/23
O
O/E
x
x
x
X
x
O/E
x
x
O/E
x
Janet Freeman
6/30/19
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
x
x
O/E
O/E
x
x
Adam Ingersoll
7/30/18
X
O/E
O/E
X
O/E
X
x
x
x
x
Off Board
Carol Kirsch
6/30/23
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
x
O/E
X
X
Robin Paetzold
6/30/23
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
x
x
X
x
x
Jay Semel
6/30/19
X
X
X
X
X
X
x
X
x
X
X
X
Monique
Washington
6/30/21
X
X
O
X
X
X
x
O
O
x
O/E
x
KEY:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
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CITY Ok 10WA CITY
www.icgov.org
October 16, 2018
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Planning & Zoning Commission: July 5
Item Number: 5.c.
r
p4 CITY OF IOWA CITY
-To MEMORANDUM
Date: October 1, 2018
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Anne Russett, Senior Planner
Re: Recommendations from Planning & Zoning Commission
At their August 16, 2018 meeting the Planning & Zoning Commission approved the July 5 minutes
with the following recommendation to the City Council:
By a vote of 6-1 (Dyer dissenting) the Commission recommends approval of REZ18-
00005/SUB18-0005, an application submitted by Bedrock LLC for a rezoning from ID -
RM to OPD/RS-5 (5.8 acres) and OPD/RM-12 (12.23 acres) and a Preliminary Plat and
Sensitive Areas Development Plan for Cherry Creek Subdivision, a 17 -lot, 18.03 -acre
residential subdivision located east of Gilbert Street subject to 1) City Forester review
and approval of the tree replacement and protection plan prior to final plat approval, 2) at
the time of final plat approve the development agreement will specify that the roof drains
and gutters for lots 5 - 16 will be required to drain toward the storm drains on Toby
Circle, and 3) the applicant contracting with an archaeologist approved by the State to
complete a study or excavation plan prior to any additional grading on the property.
Additional action (check one)
No further action needed
Board or Commission is requesting Council direction
_X_ Agenda item will be prepared by staff for Council action - Done
MINUTES APPROVED
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
J U LY 5, 2018 — 7:00 PM — FORMAL MEETING
E M M A J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Larry, Baker, Carolyn Dyer, Mike Hensch, Phoebe Martin, Max
Parsons, Mark Signs, Billie Townsend
MEMBERS ABSENT:
STAFF PRESENT: Sara Hektoen, Bob Miklo
OTHERS PRESENT: Alex Carrillo, Andrew Bockenstedt, Joel Kline, Don Cochran,
Shannon Patrick, Nate Byers
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
By a vote of 6-1 (Dyer dissenting) the Commission recommends approval of REZ1 8-00005/SUB1 8-
0005, an application submitted by Bedrock LLC for a rezoning from ID -RM to OPD/RS-5 (5.8
acres) and OPD/RM-12 (12.23 acres) and a Preliminary Plat and Sensitive Areas Development
Plan for Cherry Creek Subdivision, a 17 -lot, 18.03 -acre residential subdivision located east of
Gilbert Street subject to 1) City Forester review and approval of the tree replacement and
protection plan prior to final plat approval, 2) at the time of final plat approve the development
agreement will specify that the roof drains and gutters for lots 5 - 16 will be required to drain toward
the storm drains on Toby Circle, and 3) the applicant contracting with an archaeologist approved
by the State to complete a study or excavation plan prior to any additional grading on the property
Hensch called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
Parsons nominated Hensch for Commission Chair, Dyer seconded the nomination, a vote was
taken and the motion passed.
Hensch nominated Parsons for Vice Chair, Dyer seconded the nomination, a vote was taken and
the motion passed.
Hensch nominated Signs for Secretary, Martin seconded the nomination, a vote was taken and the
motion passed.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
REZONING/DEVELOPMENT ITEM (REZ18-00005/SUB18-00005):
Discussion of an application submitted by Bedrock, LLC for a rezoning of approximately 18.03
acres from Interim Development Multifamily Residential (ID -RM) zone to Planned Development
Overlay/Low Density Single Family Residential (OPD/ RS -5) zone (5.8 acres) and Planned
Planning and Zoning Commission
July 5, 2018
Page 2 of 12
Development Overlay/Low Density Multifamily Residential (OPD -12) zone (12.23 acres) and a
preliminary plat of Cherry Creek Subdivision, a 17 -lot, 18.03 -acre residential subdivision with 93
multifamily dwellings, 2 duplex lots and 15 single family lots located east of South Gilbert Street &
west of Sandusky Drive.
Miklo noted this item was deferred from the May 17 meeting, since that time the applicant has
submitted a revised plan and the most significant change in the plan is former lot 17 is no longer
proposed to be rezoned to Low Density Multifamily but rather to be rezoned to Low Density Single
Family, the same as the adjacent lots south of the proposed Cherry Avenue. Miklo stated the
previous plan had included 10 multifamily units in the form of two sets of townhouses, the new
proposal is to create two lots which will be suitable for either single family or corner lot duplexes,
either which is allowed by the proposed RS -5 zone, and two single family lots. As a result all of the
properties that will have access to Toby Circle will be single family or the possibility of two duplexes
on the corner lots.
Miklo highlighted other changes to the plan, one is the density of the proposal has decreased from
7.5 units per acre to 7.18 units per acre and both of those densities are within the Comprehensive
Plan recommendation of 2 to 8 dwelling units per acre. Another concern that was raised by the
Commission at the May 17 meeting was with the two -36 unit apartment buildings therefore the
applicant has revised the plan to pull back the parking and fire access drive from the south
property line and therefore creating more greenspace in that area. The building itself has not
changed. In the expanded greenspace area the applicant proposes playground area and dining
areas with a concrete patio, fixed in place grills, picnic tables and a pergola added. A similar
feature has been added to the north building as well, and even with the addition of the playground
area there is still a tree buffer between the area and Gilbert Street. Miklo added the landscape
plan has also been amended with additional trees added to the southern part of the single family
lots and additional trees added to the retaining walls on the south side. Also with the revised plan
the retaining walls stair -step and there are two levels rather than one tall retaining wall. Miklo
noted street trees have also been added between the sidewalk and the curb as well as the trees on
the private property. Miklo noted this is a change in City policy, in the past the City has avoided
putting trees in areas where there might be water lines or other easements but it is rare those lines
break and need to be repaired so trees are now being allowed_
Traffic and traffic calming questions were raised at the last meeting, one specific concern was
regarding the length of the alley, the City transportation planners looked at the plans and they felt
the design of the alley is such that it will not need traffic calming. There will be a retaining wall and
a dense row of trees along the north side and having trees or landscaping along a roadway tend to
slow traffic down, additionally the alley is broken into two segments serving a relatively small
number of units (14 units served in one section and 7 in the other section) and there is a curve in
the alley with three points of entry. Miklo noted the applicant has agreed if there are issues in the
future they would be open to installing some traffic calming devices.
The driveway access to Cherry Avenue was also a concern with the question of if it had sufficient
sight distance, again the transportation planners reviewed this and confirmed there is sufficient
sight distance. Another question was regarding the landscape islands that are designed into
Cherry Avenue to calm or slow down traffic and if a third island would be necessary and again the
transportation planner felt it isn't really necessary and the islands are spaced according to City
guidelines.
Planning and Zoning Commission
July 5, 2018
Page 3 of 12
Miklo commented on the sidewalk along Gilbert Street and the question of whether it should be
widen to 8 feet, there currently is a 4 foot sidewalk in the area and upon inspection for the most
part is in good condition, any part not in good condition would need to be repaired before
occupancy. There is an 8 foot sidewalk and trail system on the other side of Gilbert Street and the
City standard is to generally have 8 foot sidewalks on one side of the street and a 5 foot sidewalk
on the other side, in this case the 4 foot sidewalk is nonconforming and it is staffs view that the
expense of removing and replacing that sidewalk is not worth it and do not recommend it. Staff is
looking at introducing a street crossing with a curb cut or curb ramp to make it easier to cross
Gilbert Street.
Regarding stormwater management the City Engineer has indicated they will require that all the
gutters, roof drains and driveways for the single family lots be directed to Toby Circle, where the
street will have inter -storm drains that should help minimize any runoff to adjacent properties to the
south. There is also a conservation easement along the south property line for preservation of
some existing trees as well as new trees that will be planted. Therefore there will be minimal
pavement in that area and therefore the City Engineer has approved the preliminary stormwater
plans and feels it will actually be an improvement over the current conditions on the site.
There were questions raised about the archeological study of the area, the applicant had
contracted with a private archeologist who has reviewed the site and determined because of
grading that happened back in the 1990's when the adjacent subdivision was built, apparently
there was fill from some of the basements dumped on this site and also soils borrowed from this
site to supplement Pepperwood Addition, and that work was all done before the City has a
sensitive areas ordinance. Because of that disturbance they found no evidence of archeological
sites but there are some areas where they would like to do further studies as the fill material that
was placed there in the 1990's is removed, so the applicant has agreed to have an archeological
monitor present on the site when further development occurs and that is something the City can
specify in the conditional zoning agreement.
Miklo next showed images of the buildings that are proposed. There are three different models of
the townhomes so there will be a variety of building types along Cherry Avenue. The garage
entrances onto Cherry Avenue will require a minor modification which can later be approved by
staff. The reason is due to the topography it does not lend itself to an entrance from the side.
Staff recommends approval of REZ1 8-00005/SUB1 8-0005, an application submitted by Bedrock
LLC for a rezoning from ID -RM to OPD/RS-5 (5.8 acres) and OPD/RM-12 (12.23 acres) and a
Preliminary Plat and Sensitive Areas Development Plan for Cherry Creek Subdivision, a 17 -lot,
18.03 -acre residential subdivision located east of Gilbert Street subject to 1) City Forester review
and approval of the tree replacement and protection plan prior to final plat approval, 2) at the time
of final plat approve the development agreement will specify that the roof drains and gutters for lots
5 - 16 will be required to drain toward the storm drains on Toby Circle, and 3) the applicant
contracting with an archaeologist approved by the State to complete a study or excavation plan
prior to any additional grading on the property.
Hensch asked about the sidewalk on the east side of South Gilbert Street and that it does not
extend all the way south so how will the people from this new subdivision get across the street to
the walking trail. Miklo noted that City transportation planners are investigating a possible
crossing. Miklo added that sidewalks on the east side will eventually be extended to McCollister
Boulevard as the McCollister Farms property is developed.
Planning and Zoning Commission
July 5, 2018
Page 4 of 12
Hensch shared his concern about the language of having an archaeologist monitor on site and if it
was specific enough to note that means if anything is uncovered all work on the site should stop
until future investigations. Miklo said that could be clarified when the conditional zoning agreement
is drafted. If a burial ground is uncovered there are State Codes that will be enforced.
Parsons asked what the square footage was for the open space now on lots 1 and 2. Miklo noted
the applicant could address that question. He did add that there would be a payment in lieu of
open space that would be used to support Wetherby Park or Sand Hill Park.
Hensch opened the public hearing.
Alex Carrillo (373 Windmill Place) works for Bedrock LLC as the project coordinator for the
proposed Cherry Creek Subdivision. He began by thanking Staff and Miklo for all the guidance
and support they provided in completing the revisions for the development project. Bedrock LLC is
very excited about the plan that is before the Commission this evening. Carrillo noted his
appreciation for the Commission and the neighboring community members for their feedback at
that last meeting and stated since that time they have collaborated with the City, MMS and the
architects (Fusion) to try to address some of the feedback that was brought up. To highlight some
of the primary comments, first was density, also the size of the Lot 1 apartment building, the usable
open space, and traffic and tree buffers. Miklo addressed in his staff report a bit but Carrillo had
prepared a presentation to address the concerns as well.
With regards to density, even though the Comprehensive Plan suggests 2 to 8 dwelling units per
acre they felt they could reduce some of the units and create a better buffer from townhomes to
single family homes. In an effort to maximize the open space they utilized their grading plan and
were efficient as possible with the space, moving the retaining walls and creating more open
space. They also reduced the parking spaces as they had more than was required, so that created
more open space. They are now adding a playground, a pergola picnic area, and are reducing the
height of the retaining wall. In this restructure every dwelling will have green space, the single
family homes will have yards, the townhomes will have screen porches overlooking the woodland
areas and the apartment buildings will have the open playground/picnic areas.
Martin asked how many bedrooms would be in the two apartment building units. Carrillo said they
will be one and two bedroom units.
Carrillo continued with addressing the concern about the Lot 1 apartment building and if it was too
close to the property line. They have complied with the height requirements, the setback
requirements, and they felt it was appropriate, especially given the topography of the land. He
presented some 3-D renderings so everyone could better see the plan. The digital profile is set to
the grading plan. The buildings are set into the hills and therefore will not tower over the rest of the
development. They also updated the coloring scheme to be less bland and add character to the
buildings. Carrillo next showed pictures of the property in its current state and noted the tree
buffers that will remain as well as where new trees will be planted.
Signs asked about the two large retaining walls on the southern part of the property. Carrillo said
they have revised the plan to terrace those retaining walls and add plantings to create the best
aesthetic possible. They will be using the Rosetta's Outcropping product, which will provide a
beautiful aesthetic with a natural look.
Planning and Zoning Commission
July 5, 2018
Page 5 of 12
Carrillo stated the pergola and picnic tables would made of timber which would add to the aesthetic
of the property. Hensch asked how many tables and pergolas would be on the property. Carrillo
said they are showing three tables on the plans, but could add more as there is space available.
Dyer asked what the components of the play structure will be. Carrillo said it will have a couple
slides and some monkey bars. Dyer noted there should be some benches added for parents or
caregivers to sit and watch children play.
Hensch noted that since both buildings are the same size, they should both have the same number
of picnic tables and outdoor spaces.
Martin questioned having 1 and 2 bedroom units in the apartment buildings and then also saying
there would be play structures and open space for children. Carrillo said many young couples with
one child will live in a 2 bedroom unit.
Dyer asked if there was room on the ravine side for benches to be place overlooking the ravine.
Carrillo didn't think there would be room for that because of the sensitive areas but they could add
benches to the areas by the parking lots.
Hensch asked what exterior building materials they propose to use on the three, four and five-plex
buildings. Carrillo said they would use cement board, not vinyl as indicated on some of the plans.
There would also be stone and shingle shakes used.
Hensch stated a concern from neighbor comments regarding the 36-plex and the distance from the
southern lot line. It also is an 80 foot building so that is massive along a property line. Carrillo
acknowledged that was a concern and why he showed the 3-D images and how the tree line will
block the sight lines. He added the first residence to the south is over 300 feet away.
Martin asked what type -of trees they are planting along the southern property line. Carrillo said he
is unsure of the species of trees planned, however they have met with the City Forrester and is
using his recommended species.
Andrew Bockenstedt (3116 Lyle Drive NE) is also with the Bedrock LLC, he wanted to reiterate that
they are more than willing to work with the City to install the curb ramps and crosswalk for access
to the trail on the other side of Gilbert Street.
Hensch noted his concern about having a crossing across Gilbert Street, it is a very busy street.
Bockenstedt agrees and likes the idea of running the sidewalk on the east side further south but
there is a steep slope along there and a retaining wall would need to be added.
Miklo added that South Gilbert Street is being considered for a "road diet" which would reduce it
from four lanes to three, slowing traffic and making it easier for pedestrians to cross.
Martin asked where the closest bus stop to this development would be. Miklo is unsure, Hensch
knows there is one at the corner of South Gilbert and Southgate Streets and knows there is not
one on Sandusky.
Hensch asked about the landscaping plan noting that typically the plans label each type of tree that
is to be located in each area. This proposed plan does not indicate what types of tree and Hensch
Planning and Zoning Commission
July 5, 2018
Page 6of12
is concerned because of the early harvesting of the trees on this property they need to make sure
they get quality trees introduced back into the area. Bockenstedt said he is open to having the
landscape architect update the plan to show the types of trees. Miklo said they are recommending
that the City Forester approve the landscaping plan before final plat approval.
Joel Kline (2460 South Gilbert Street) owns the McCollister Historic Farm House to the south of the
applicant's property. He wishes to point out again he has taken on this National Historic Registry
house in good faith and made a strong effort to restore it. Currently they have artisan brick
workers using historic mortar doing repairs on the house. They built the garage in discussion with
the City and architects to keep it with the historic feel as well. Kline stated to put the largest and
tallest building south of Highway 6 just 23 feet from the property line of an historic property doesn't
seem to be keeping with maintaining the character of the National Historic Landmark. Kline said
he raised a number of concerns at the May meeting and feels none of them have been addressed.
The trees they are showing to the south side of their property are actually trees on Kline's property
so he is responsible for the buffer. Those trees on his property are deciduous trees and will not
provide much visual protection during five months of the year when the tree leaves are shed. Kline
had asked for a consideration of a large berm being constructed along the south border to provide
a visual and personnel barrier as well as an 8 foot fence on the south side of the berm. That
request has not been addressed at all. Kline also noted the berm would be useful in water
management since removal of the mature trees is likely to disturb the water flow in an adverse way
to his property. Kline believes development is important, affordable housing is important, but he is
not sure the spirit of this zoning is to require a 36-plex, the greatest density of people outside of the
downtown area. He would suggest it be a two story building rather than three, but realizes that
reduces the revenue of the property. Kline added something like this cannot be undone, it will
significantly change the character of the land in this part of the area, this area was originally the
Napoleon Trading Post, Napoleon Park named after that, and Kline's home was the major
homestead in that area. Once you start building up around it, it cannot be undone, and he urges
the Commission to seriously consider the ramifications and long term effect on the neighborhood
and residents.
Don Cochran (2530 South Gilbert Street) lives on the other parcel that is just south of the proposed
development. He also spoke at the May 17 meeting to voice concerns, some of which have been
captured, some he wants to address again. Runoff is a concern and it appears the City has signed
off on the stormwater plan and Cochran should not get more excess water on his property (he is
now, with the rain recently they had flooding with the removal of the trees). He noted the safety
regarding crossing Gilbert Street has been addressed, it is a major concern, kids especially are
going to want to cross the street to get to the park area. Another area where the kids would want
to explore is the woodland area of his property, there used to be a cattle fence in the woodland but
Cochran pulled out that fence on his property because trees were entwined, so he feels another
fence needs to be built to show the property lines. Cochran pointed out in photos his property line
the tree buffer the applicant is discussing and wants to make sure any landscaping they are
capturing is not part of his or Kline's property, but is truly new landscaping that is being built there.
Cochran also stated that property value was a concern of his as this area was a woodland area
before, he can appreciate that it is going to develop but he didn't think it would be the biggest
building south of Highway 6. He pointed out in pictures that there was once berms along the
property line, not just woodlands, but that has now been leveled out and he feels a berm should be
considered. With looking at the 3-D rendering of the large apartment building, Cochran questions
the elevation of the parking lot, in the original drawings he thought it was the same elevation as
Sandusky, even if it is a bit lower it will up high and the retaining walls don't seem as high. The
Planning and Zoning Commission
July 5, 2018
Page 7 of 12
final concern Cochran raised at the previous meeting was density, and that again has been
addressed this evening, he appreciates the reduction of townhouses but the density was 7.5 out of
2 to 8 before and now is 7.18 out of 2 to 8 and while that is a reduction, it is still a higher density
then one would expect in that location. There are two lots facing the development to the south,
one to the north, and seven lots facing it from the side and to get this large of a density in that one
small area seems excessive.
Shannon Patrick (652 Sandusky Drive) also spoke at the May 17 meeting and said why he thought
when this proposal got to City Council it would not go anywhere, the short reasons were the school
zone conflict, fit with the neighborhood, and lack of trust in good faith. First, with the fit for the
character of the neighborhood, it has been talked about to some degree and Patrick also
appreciates the developer taking out the 10 multi -units to put in single family, he feels it will help on
the transition, but his concern at this point is the 36 unit blocks, which at the end of the last meeting
from the Commissioner's comments he felt it was agreed that those 36 unit buildings were not a
good fit for the neighborhood. He maintains this will be a lot of people to add into a residential
neighborhood, it is a very dense block of housing, and not in character with the single family
neighborhood it is going into. With regards to the school zone conflict, this development will fall
into the Twain district and Iowa City seems to like to dump all of its dense housing into the same
school district which has been giving the school board a headache for years, parents will
remember meeting after meeting about how to get better diversity in housing for the district and it is
difficult because all of the dense housing is built in the same area. Therefore Patrick would
encourage the Commission to look like they are working with other parts of the government in the
plan and not build 72 more units in the form of an apartment building in the Twain neighborhood.
With regards to the trust issue, Patrick agrees that good faith effort has been made to get the
neighbors aware of the meetings, but he noted that some neighbors said the Good Neighbor
Meeting was presented as a done deal and not as an opportunity to give feedback. He noted that
an issue from the last meeting was the clearing out of the trees, the developer stated this was done
before the permit but was okay because he thought it was scrub land, Patrick finds it perplexing
how the developer says he thought it was scrub land, but yet sold off dozens of trees. One does
not sell off truckloads of trees and call it scrub land. Patrick also notes that when looking at an old
map it looks like the area was intended for some large house lots. He added this meeting is the
day after a holiday, and be presented to a new board, makes him feel like perhaps there is some
shady work happening and encourages the Commission to make sure to scrutinize the plans and
make sure everything is ticked off nicely. The last issue Patrick is to comment on is the crossing
on Gilbert Street, it will be an issue, and he thinks of the 72 units, with nationally means 2.5 people
per unit so 250 people in those buildings, and the nearest playground is across Gilbert Street at the
softball fields. He feels there needs to be more than just curb ramps, there needs to be lightening
and other safety alerts. To reiterate Patrick stated this development is not a good fit, to have that
large of buildings in this space.
Nate Byers (2423 North Ridge Drive, Coralville) works with MMS Consultants, the civil engineer
firm for this project, with regards to the questions on the retaining wall height at the outermost
corner the wall is 25 feet above the building elevation so only 12 feet of the building will be seen
over the wall. The roof line of the 36-plex is no higher then the rooflines of the single family homes
looking at the development from the high point on Cherry Avenue. The 36-plex is sunk into the hill
quite a bit. With regards to the tree lines to the south, there will be two rows of plantings long the
whole south side and there was a discussion of putting a berm back there but the City Engineer
actually recommended against it and rather to take all the roof drainage to the north and not worry
about the rear yards.
Planning and Zoning Commission
July 5, 2018
Page 8 of 12
Hensch is concerned about the elevation of the building on lot 1 and to address the neighbor's
concerns it looks like the high elevation on the property is 700 feet and it drops down to 680 at the
corner of the building. It is unfortunate they don't have an elevation drawing from that point to
clarify and solve the concerns. Byers explained the elevations and also noted there are some tree
types explained on the landscape plan and that they have worked with the City Forrester regarding
that.
Martin asked about the retaining wall. On the side facing the apartment building it is a tiered wall,
is the other side just a gigantic solid wall. Byers said the wall is cut into the land there so it will not
just be a gigantic solid wall from that view.
Baker asked for clarification on the concept of density, the two 36 -unit buildings are one and two
bedroom units, is there a breakdown of how many are one versus two. Byers stated he believed
there are 12 one bedroom and 24 two bedroom units in each building. Baker noted that compared
to most of the apartment structures in Iowa City that is a smaller density and therefore the look of
the building might be deceiving with regards to the population of the building.
Miklo clarified that a two bedroom dwelling is calculated the same as a one bedroom in the sense
of calculating the density.
Hensch closed the public hearing.
Parsons moved for the approval of REZ1 8-00005/SUB1 8-0005, an application submitted by
Bedrock LLC for a rezoning from ID -RM to OPD/RS-5 (5.8 acres) and OPD/RM-12 (12.23
acres) and a Preliminary Plat and Sensitive Areas Development Plan for Cherry Creek
Subdivision, a 17 -lot, 18.03 -acre residential subdivision located east of Gilbert Street
subject to 1) City Forester review and approval of the tree replacement and protection plan
prior to final plat approval, 2) at the time of final plat approve the development agreement
will specify that the roof drains and gutters for lots 5 -16 will be required to drain toward the
storm drains on Toby Circle, and 3) the applicant contracting with an archaeologist
approved by the State to complete a study or excavation plan prior to any additional
grading on the property.
Signs seconded the motion.
Hensch acknowledged the neighbors to the south have a valid point on how this plot of land will
change for them, however the applicant seems open to addressing the landscape plan to the
south, even adding a berm.
Signs noted there may not be room for a berm, and Hensch agreed a berm may not be the answer
Hensch also noted he was surprised the revised plan did not show any reduction in the size or
mass of the two 36 -unit buildings but since the applicant did decrease the density in the Toby
Circle area that was a plus and overall he believes the applicant addressed everything else the
Commission raised.
Dyer is concerned that the 36 -unit building is only 23 feet from the property line which is the same
distance that is allowed in a single family neighborhood, it seems too close for such a big building
regardless of how much of the building can be seen.
Townsend agreed with the concerns regarding the crossing at Gilbert Street and increased number
Planning and Zoning Commission
July 5, 2018
Page 9 of 12
of people on these properties, some which will be children. Miklo stated that traffic and safety is
always a concern the Commission needs to review, as noted the City does have plans to narrow
Gilbert Street from four lanes to three,
Signs feels that if they do narrow Gilbert Street, having the crossing at Cherry Avenue will line up
with the trail on the west side of the street, perhaps a pedestrian island can be added as a possible
solution. Miklo said the traffic engineers would have to do a study to see if that would be
appropriate.
Hensch suggests adding a condition that the applicant is responsible for the costs of implementing
whatever solution the City comes up with to get people across Gilbert Street.
Dyer also noted it isn't just pedestrians, there will be bicyclists needing to get over to the trail along
the river.
Martin noted that recently the Commission just reviewed a large number of properties the Historic
Society wished to designate as historical and here we are neighboring an already existing historical
property and she echoes Dyer's concern of the 23 feet, it seems like to have such a big building so
close to a property line infringes on a historical property. She added Gilbert Street is another
entrance to Iowa City and it is the Commission's responsibility to be thoughtful about it and have a
good transition. She understands looking at two 36-plex buildings, townhomes and single family
there is transition within the plat, but it is important to look at what is surrounding that plat. She is
struggling with the large scale of buildings so close to a historic property.
Baker asked if the concern is at all mitigate by the fact that the historic property building itself is
300 feet away. Martin said it is more that such a big building is so close to a property line. Baker
questions if the Commission is comfortable overall with the plan except for the immediate impact
on a couple of surrounding properties and whether buffering becomes the issue that resolves their
problems. He is not concerned about the density, nor does the size of the building, but
understands the concern regarding the proximity to the neighbors. He wonders if there is
something they could ask of the developer to mitigate the visual impact.
Martin agrees and admits she doesn't have a good enough visual of what the sight line from Gilbert
Street will be. The photos and renderings being shown are from within the development not from
the Gilbert Street view.
Parsons said there will be trees plus a 20 foot high retaining wall, what else can be added. Miklo
thinks adding anything else would be difficult. Parson added the developer is using the topography
to their advantage to minimize the view.
Signs agrees and feels with the topography the neighbor to the south may not actually see
anything, especially if evergreens are planted on top of the retaining wall, it will block any view of
the building from the south. He is not concerned with the distance of the building to the property
line but understands others are and can empathize. He is appreciative to see his concerns
regarding the visual impact from Gilbert Street addressed from the last meeting.
Hensch suggested adding two conditions, one regarding the applicant covering the costs to
improve the crossing across Gilbert Street, and the other one to enhance the landscaping plan to
the south border to increase the trees or brush plantings to create a better separation. Miklo noted
Planning and Zoning Commission
July 5, 2018
Page 10 of 12
in terms of additional landscaping, it is already pretty full up if trees are planted too close together it
will not be a healthy environment.
Parsons asked how long a traffic study would take to determine if and where a cross walk is
appropriate. Miklo is unsure, he just knew they were not able to complete the study before
tonight's meeting.
Miklo added that staff did discuss with the applicant the possibility of making the building shorter or
showing an image from the south. The Commission does have the option to defer this item until
the traffic study is done.
Hektoen is concerned about the open -natured aspect of the condition placed regarding the
sidewalk crossing because it could be very expensive or not, the information is not available at this
time.
Baker feels if Cherry Street is opened, this development will not create the demand for crossing
Gilbert Street so he is reluctant to say this developer should pay for the work to provide that
crossing when everything east of the development will be using that access as well. He doesn't
think that should hold up this decision.
Signs noted another concern of the neighbors to the south was people coming onto their properties
and he agrees there is potentially some issue there so wonders if the Commission wants to add a
requirement that the developer install a fence along the south wall.
Hensch feels that is perpetual problem for any development and he is not sure that is a precedent
they want to set. If a homeowner doesn't want people on their property isn't it incumbent for them
to put up the fence.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 6-1 (Dyer dissenting).
CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: JUNE 21, 2018
Parsons moved to approve the meeting minutes of June 21, 2018.
Signs seconded the motion.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0.
PLANNING AND ZONING INFORMATION.
None.
Hensch announced he will be on vacation at the end of July.
Martin will also be gone but can phone in for the next meeting.
Planning and Zoning Commission
July 5, 2018
Page 11 of 12
Baker raised a question at the joint meeting with the Commission and the Council earlier in the
week regarding the height bonuses on buildings and how they are determined for the Capitol
Street project. It appears to him the Mayor has created a list of guidelines, if the Council acts on
that and accepts those guidelines for that project, do those become the guidelines the Commission
uses as well. Miklo said if they become part of the conditional zoning agreement they will.
Hektoen stated the Commission's review of the rezoning on that project is already completed, if the
developer wants density bonuses it will come back to the Commission to review against the
Conditional Zoning Agreement. Nothing will be known until Council moves on their decision.
Townsend asked if all projects have affordable housing built into them. Miklo replied that in
Riverfront Crossings there is a requirement that 10% of the units be affordable for a period of 10
years, it is just for that part of the City. The other area that is required to include affordable
housing is with annexations into the City.
Baker asked if there is a condition placed on an approval for landscaping by the City Forrester, is
the Commission ever able to review the final proposal. Miklo noted it is unlikely the Commission
would be involved again and the condition is placed so that the Commission is relying on the
expertise of the Forester.
Adiournment:
Martin moved to adjourn.
Parsons seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0.
PLANNING &oomINGuOMMISoIOm
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2017-2018
KEY X=Present
O~Absent
O/E=Absent/Excused
—=NmaMembe,