HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019-05-07 Bd Comm minutesItem Number: 5.a.
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CITY OE IOWA CITY
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May 7, 2019
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Description
Housing & Community Development Commission: March 14
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CITY OF IOWA CITY
MEMORANDUM
Date: April 19, 2019
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Kirk Lehmann, Community Development Planner
Re: Recommendations from Housing and Community Development Commission
At their April 18th meeting, the Housing and Community Development Commission approved
the March 14, 2019 meeting with the following recommendation to the City Council:
1. By a vote of 5-0 (Eastham and Fixmer-Oraiz recused) the Commission recommends to City
Council the following allocation of FY20 Emerging Aid to Agencies funds: $9,000 to Grow
Johnson County, $5,000 to the Center for Worker Justice, and $5,000 to Successful Living.
2. By a vote of 7-0 the Commission recommends to City Council the following allocation of FY20
CDBG/HOME funds:
In the event federal funds are higher or lower than budgeted by 20% or less, these amounts will
be prorated accordingly, subject to federal caps/requirements and requested amounts; in the
event federal funds are higher or lower than budgeted by more than 20%, another funding round
will begin.
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
CDBG
HOME
Mayor's Youth Empowerment Program - Lot Acquisition/Rental
Construction
$176,000
Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity - Lot Acquisition/Homebuyer
Assistance
$50,000
Successful Living - Rental Acquisition
$164,000
The Housing Fellowship - Rental Rehabilitation
$70,000
Successful Living - Rental Rehab
$59,000
The Housing Fellowship - CHDO Operating
$21,000
Domestic Violence Intervention Program - Shelter Repair
$90,000
Old Brick — ADA/Structural Fortification Improvements
$10,000
In the event federal funds are higher or lower than budgeted by 20% or less, these amounts will
be prorated accordingly, subject to federal caps/requirements and requested amounts; in the
event federal funds are higher or lower than budgeted by more than 20%, another funding round
will begin.
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
MINUTES
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
MARCH 14, 2019 — 6:30 PM
SENIOR CENTER, ROOM 202
FINAL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Megan Alter, Charlie Eastham, Vanessa Fixmer-Oraiz, Christine Harms,
John McKinstry, Maria Padron and Paula Vaughan
MEMBERS ABSENT: [vacant position], Mitch Brouse
STAFF PRESENT: Kirk Lehmann, Erika Kubly
OTHERS PRESENT: Ryan Holst, Elias Ortiz, Craig Moser, Jake Kundert, Shirley Tramble,
Brenda Nogaj, Kari Wilken, Roger Lusala, Roger Goedken, Brianna
Wills, Heath Brewer, Ashley Gillette, Anthony Smith, Sara Barron, Michi
Lopez, Martha Norbeck
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
By a vote of 5-0 (Eastham and Fixmer-Oraiz recused) the Commission recommends to City Council the
following allocation of FY20 Emerging Aid to Agencies funds: $9,000 to Grow Johnson County, $5,000 to
the Center for Worker Justice, and $5,000 to Successful Living.
By a vote of 7-0 the Commission recommends to City Council the following allocation of FY20
CDBG/HOME funds:
In the event federal funds are higher or lower than budgeted by 20% or less, these amounts will be
prorated accordingly, subject to federal caps/requirements and requested amounts; in the event federal
funds are higher or lower than budgeted by more than 20%, another funding round will begin.
CDBG
HOME
Mayor's Youth Empowerment Program - Lot Acquisition/Rental
Construction
$176,000
Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity - Lot Acquisition/Homebuyer
Assistance
$50,000
Successful Living - Rental Acquisition
$164,000
The Housing Fellowship - Rental Rehabilitation
$70,000
Successful Living - Rental Rehab
$59,000
The Housing Fellowship - CHDO Operating
$21,000
Domestic Violence Intervention Program - Shelter Repair
$90,000
Old Brick — ADA/Structural Fortification Improvements
$10,000
In the event federal funds are higher or lower than budgeted by 20% or less, these amounts will be
prorated accordingly, subject to federal caps/requirements and requested amounts; in the event federal
funds are higher or lower than budgeted by more than 20%, another funding round will begin.
Housing and Community Development Commission
March 14, 2019
Page 2 of 11
CALL MEETING TO ORDER:
Vaughan called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM
APPROVAL OF THE FEBRUARY 21, 2019 MINUTES:
Eastham moved to approve the minutes of February 21, 2019 with corrections. Alter seconded. A vote
was taken and the motion passed 7-0.
PUBLIC COMMENT FOR TOPICS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL FOR FY2020 EMERGING AID TO AGENCIES
APPLICATIONS:
Eastham excused himself from this agenda item as he is on the Board of one of the applicants. Fixmer-
Oraiz also recused herself as she is employed by one of the applicants.
Lehmann presented the Commission with a summary of the six applications and the requested funding
amounts and discussed clarifications about the Forest View Mobile Home Park application. The applicant,
Center for Worker Justice, is not able to be present at this evening's meeting but Lehmann can try to
answer any questions regarding the application.
Padron began by stating she recommended $9,500 for Unlimited Abilities and $9,500 for Grow Johnson
County.
Vaughan recommended $7,000 for Grow Johnson County.
Harms recommended $5,000 for Grow Johnson County.
McKinstry recommended $5,000 for Grow Johnson County and $5,000 for Successful Living and $9,000
for the mobile home park redevelopment.
Alter recommended $3,800 to all the applicants except for Little Creations Academy. Padron noted the
minimum allocation should be $5,000 so Alter reconfigured her allocations to $5,000 for Center for
Worker Justice, $5,000 for Johnson Clean Energy and $5,000 for Successful Living.
Lehmann added all recommendations into a spreadsheet and calculated the averages.
McKinstry noted there is the most consensus for Grow Johnson County so that allocation should be at
least the minimum of $5,000. Given the total amount of funds the Commission has to allocate to emerging
agencies, they can only fund at most two other organizations.
Padron noted the next two top vote getters were Successful Living and Center for Worker Justice (Forest
View). If both those were awarded $5,000, the total allocated would be $15,000 which leaves $4,000.
Padron asked why McKinstry and Alter wanted to fund the mobile home association. McKinstry noted that
Forest View has a tremendous potential for affordable housing in the future. Lehmann clarified the
request was not for people to attend the meetings but rather Center for Worker Justice costs which
included helping the tenant association start by providing space for them to meet, occasional
transportation, some translation for public meetings and childcare. The applicant stated that the most
important of these functions is for meeting space rent so this association can meet. McKinstry noted this
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March 14, 2019
Page 3 of 11
is a true startup, it is an emerging organization. Vaughan said her concern was that the organization
seemed temporary, project based, and not an emerging agency. Padron noted they are funding the
Center for Worker Justice which is an agency, for their project of helping this neighborhood association.
However the Center for Worker Justice has been around for more than two years and has received
funding from the City so wouldn't they be excluded from this. Lehmann clarified the Center for Worker
Justice has not received Aid to Agencies funds which makes them eligible for this funding. Alter supports
this application because the Center for Worker Justice is lending aid to a group in community outreach
and is helping a neighborhood association.
Vaughan questioned the allocation to Successful Living which appeared to be an allocation to pay
employees but that would not be an ongoing payment, it would only be for one year. Her concern is if they
are having difficulty paying their employees then perhaps the model for their organization should be
reviewed. Harms agreed and noted all the agencies are having difficulty with payments from Medicaid
and not getting paid as much as they thought and this may start a trend of all agencies coming forward.
The change in Medicaid payment was known to the agencies and some likely prepared for it better than
others. Alter feels this application was a creative attempt at a solution to the problem at least for the year
and was thinking of the people who are impacted by the care from Successful Living but acknowledges
Harms' point that this is not a permanent solution.
Padron noted these funds are for emerging agencies and Successful Living has been around for 20 years
and some of the other applicants, like the energy project (Johnson Clean Energy), is very new and
interesting. Vaughan noted she would like to see more details on what Johnson Clean Energy will be
using the funding for and be able to target their ideas, they appear to have a lot of goals, which are all
great, but it is a lot to accomplished and they need to be more focused.
Padron suggested allocating $5,000 to Successful Living and $5,000 to Center for Worker Justice and the
remaining $9,000 to Grow Johnson County. Grow Johnson County has never been funded before and is
helping many people. Harms noted Grow Johnson County had come before the Commission before but
set aside their funding request when hearing another agencies needs and acknowledging that agency
needed the funding more.
Harms moved to recommend to City Council the following allocation of FY20 Emerging Aid to
Agencies funds: $9,000 to Grow Johnson County, $5,000 to the Center for Worker Justice, and
$5,000 to Successful Living. Alter seconded the motion, a vote was taken and motion passed 5-0
(Eastham and Fixmer-Oraiz recused).
RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL FOR FY2020 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK
GRANT (CDBG) AND HOME INVESTMENTS PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM (HOME) APPLICATIONS:
Lehmann shared a handout with the Commission that had the CDBG/HOME allocations ordered by
average score, projects with more than $50,000 should get first consideration and per the City's
Consolidated Plan they can only fund two public facilities projects. Additionally, there are staff comments,
one is Successful Living has unspent funds from the past fiscal year and if additional funds are allocated
they may have difficulty meeting their commitment deadlines, therefore staff recommends not funding
Successful Living until they spend down the current funding. Also for new organizations without a lot of
history, staff recommends starting with small funding amounts as there may be concerns with compliance
and the five year reversion of assets requirement. If a new organization does not last for five years, then
the City has to pay back those funds to the federal government and if the organization doesn't own their
facility they must be able to lease it for the five year compliance period. Lehmann said this may affect the
applications from Little Creation Academy and Old Brick. City Staff will monitor all CDBG/HOME funded
projects and work with agency staff to make sure they meet compliance.
Eastham asked about the Successful Living application and how much were they allocated and have left
unspent. Lehmann said they have approximately $30,000 from the FY18 rehab allocation unspent, for the
FY19 acquisition they have spent around $60,000 and will spend approximately $75,000 shortly which
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March 14, 2019
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leaves approximately $60,000 in additional funds they have not spent. The rehab project is the one they
have had more delays on, not as much with acquisition projects. Lehmann noted this is a concern staff
wanted the Commission to be aware of as they award funds, the Commission can still allocate funds as
they see best and staff will work with those agencies to make sure there are no issues moving forward.
Eastham noted that the new Successful Living rehab project could get funded and move forward even
though the current rehab project is having issues.
Roger Goedken (Successful Living) stated with regards to the FYI rehab project they anticipate the
work being done in April, weather has been some of the hold-up. With the home acquisition funds they
have purchased one home and have residents moving in, the other they just closed on and they
anticipate to spend those remaining funds by the end of the fiscal year as they are actively looking at
houses. He explained there were many issues with the rehab project including when federal agencies
shut down, rental moratorium, and issues with finding contractors. He added that even when they have
acquisition projects they sometimes have to do limited rehab to those houses to make them accessible
for their clients. Lehmann stated there were also some delays with the FYI acquisition but staff had
amended the Annual Action Plan for it and it was completed a couple months back. Goedken said the
current application is for a kitchen/bathroom remodel and new HVAC on a house they purchased a few
years ago, they do have residents currently living there but the repairs are needed.
Lehmann stated regarding the HUD guidance for the boiler issue for Little Creations Academy, HUD
requested additional clarification and Lehmann supplied it but has yet to hear back.
Vaughan began with the public facilities projects (CDBG) and noted they can fund no more than two
projects. Lehmann noted they have $100,000 to allocate and also that CDBG funds can be used for
housing projects but HOME funds cannot be used for public facility projects. Vaughan stated when
looking at the commissioner's allocations it appears everyone was in favor of funding Domestic Violence
Intervention Program - Shelter Repair and additionally the Old Brick — ADA/Structural Fortification
Improvements. Alter proposed allocating $90,000 to DVIP and $10,000 for Old Brick.
Eastham noted the DVIP application is strong in terms of the need to repair the shelter as well as the
need to repair the parking lot however he feels financing the repair to the parking lot could be done in
another way and the Commission's priority should be on the repairs to the shelter interior. He noted
Council has the ability to provide additional funds to these organizations and the Council should pay for
the parking lot repair. Alter agrees however noted that Council just funded a larger allocation in the Aid to
Agencies based on Commission recommendation and may point to the fact the Commission indeed has
funds to support this application in this case. McKinstry noted with the recent consolidation, DVIP now
has to cover a larger geographic area and that is stretching their already dwindling funds. If they had the
money to do these repairs, such as the parking lot, they would have done it — they do not have additional
funding to support this repair. Padron agreed with McKinstry and noted that what Eastham stated about
DVIP is how she feels about Old Brick, perhaps Old Brick could find funding elsewhere. Fixmer-Oraiz
agreed with Alter and noted if we send any of these applications to Council they may not fund anything.
She also agrees with Padron that Old Brick could have more avenues for funding. Harms feels the
Commission should support Old Brick and noted it is always hard for the Commission because there are
applications for historical preservation and others for necessary community services. For that reason she
feels comfortable with the allocation of $90,000 to DVIP and $10,000 to Old Brick.
Vaughan noted the Commission is to only review what is in the application before them, they are not here
to make recommendations on how other agencies might run their business, they are to look at the
applications and make recommendations based on the information in those applications.
Eastham noted he is fine with the allocation of $90,000 to DVIP and $10,000 to Old Brick but will keep
advocating for City Council to step up and help agencies, we should not solely rely on federal funding.
Lehmann noted that Old Brick is also applying for local and state historic preservation grants as well.
Vaughan next moved to housing applications, there are $540,000 in HOME funds to allocate. Looking at
the Commission's individual allocations it appears if they went with the averages for application they
Housing and Community Development Commission
March 14, 2019
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would be slightly under their allocated amount
Eastham noted he is uneasy allocating money to Habitat for new homes when there are other agencies
such as Successful Living and MYEP who have clients living in homes in need of repair. Padron agrees.
Lehmann noted The Housing Fellowship - Rental Rehabilitation would need to be allocated $70,000
based on the estimated funding required for CHDO reserve funds.
Eastham stated Successful Living and MYEP had a clear plan and need for adding to their group homes,
they both have waiting lists, both run stellar group home programming for the residents, the rehab
amounts seemed reasonable. Eastham added he would be fine not allocating any CHDO operating funds
to The Housing Fellowship, he feels that organization would be fine without those funds and would prefer
giving MYEP and Successful Living amounts closer to what they applied for.
Vaughan noted her concern with Successful Living having challenges meeting timeframes and payroll
(since they requested paying employees from the emerging agencies grant). She is also concerned about
the future of Medicaid funding from the State and feels more local aid will be needed for these agencies.
McKinstry agrees with Eastham on the issue of need for affordable rental versus affordable ownership
and noted he did not allocate as much to Habitat for Humanity because the money could help more
individuals in rentals rather than ownership. He also values the need for affordable homeownership and it
addresses historic imbalances and therefore would want to see some homeownership in the mix which
should be supported by some public funds as well as private funds.
Fixmer-Oraiz was swayed by the presentation Habitat gave at the last meeting and learned about the
overall impact homeownership has on the community. She allocated the full amount but equally can see
the need for assisted living as well and will support those as well.
Alter noted that Habitat said they could purchase a lot and get started on a new home with a $50,000
allocation so that is what she feels they should be awarded. That will open up more monies for
Successful Living or MYEP. She does strongly support funding Habitat for the reasons McKinstry noted.
Eastham asked if there was any support from other commissioners to reduce The Housing Fund
allocation and therefore not fund their CHDO operating request. He stated he has seen their budget and
feels this amount requested is not a make or break amount in their overall budget. Those funds from the
CHDO operating request could better be served in Successful Living and MYEP to expand the number of
residents they could serve.
Fixmer-Oraiz did not agree and felt CHDO operating funds should be funded. Padron agreed and also
feels the Habitat allocation should be lowered to $50,000 and any additional funds be split amongst
Successful Living and MYEP.
The Commission discussed the reallocations and staff presented a new allocation table for the
Commission to vote on. They also discussed what to do in the event the federal funding was different
than what they based the allocations on. Lehmann said in the past, staff has prorated the allocations
among the agencies unless it was more or less than a 20% difference. Eastham suggested no positive
prorated amounts be added to The Housing Fellowship. Vaughan noted they could add if prorated up but
to make sure the allocation is not more than the asking amount.
McKinstry moved to recommend to City Council the following allocation of FY20 CDBG/HOME
funds:
CDBG HOME
Mayor's Youth Empowerment Program - Lot Acquisition/Rental Construction $176,000
Housing and Community Development Commission
March 14, 2019
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Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity - Lot Acquisition/Homebuyer Assistance
$50,000
Successful Living - Rental Acquisition
$164,000
The Housing Fellowship - Rental Rehabilitation
$70,000
Successful Living - Rental Rehab
$59,000
The Housing Fellowship - CHDO Operating
$21,000
Domestic Violence Intervention Program - Shelter Repair
$90,000
Old Brick — ADA/Structural Fortification Improvements
$10,000
In the event federal funds are higher or lower than budgeted by 20% or less, these amounts will be
prorated accordingly, subject to federal caps/requirements and requested amounts; in the event
federal funds are higher or lower than budgeted by more than 20%, another funding round will
begin. Fixmer-Oraiz seconded. Passed 7-0
PRESENTATION ON FAIR HOUSING STUDY:
Lehmann presented the Fair Housing Choice Study staff began working on some time ago, beginning
with introduction, public input received and initial observations.
Fair Housing Choice is the ability to choose housing free from unlawful discrimination, it applies to owners
and renters, and to people providing other housing services as well such as financing. There are many
protected classes based on Iowa City's Human Rights Ordinance including age, disability, color, class,
race, nation of origin, creed or religion, sex, gender or identity or sex orientation, marital/familial status,
presence or absence of dependents and most recently added public assistance as a source of income
including Housing Choice Vouchers. The City strives to further fair housing in everything it does, it is a
requirement of HUD funds but also applies to all the City's programs. This means the City tries to take
meaningful actions to overcome patterns of segregation, promote fair housing choice and ultimately to
foster inclusive communities. Lehmann pointed out that fair housing is different than affordable housing
although there is a lot of overlap because often affordability is a barrier to housing choice. However, fair
housing is the idea that housing is available to all residents of the community whereas affordable housing
is housing costs that match incomes. Often protected classes have lower incomes so providing affordable
housing is important to fair housing but it is not sufficient to affirmatively further fair housing.
The Fair Housing Choice study is being conducted by Neighborhood Services and the Office of Equity
and Human Rights. It includes both qualitative (getting narrative) and quantitative (looking at data)
components. In terms of public input so far (qualitative) City staff held a public meeting and six focus
groups of different representative groups (a total of 83 attendees), and then also did a public survey for
broader public perspectives, which got 234 responses. For the quantitative analysis they looked at
private and public data, most of which is from the census. The goal is to complete the study in May 2019
so it is ready for review when the Consolidated Plan is updated. Staff will share a copy of the study draft
with Commissioners in May.
For the survey, 234 individuals responded, skewing towards higher incomes. The survey was made
available online and hard copies were provided through the public library and social service agencies.
They received good feedback in terms of getting representation of protected classes. 70% of respondents
were females, 17% were nonwhite or Hispanic, 5% were foreign -born, 20% had a disability, 12% spoke
another language, 12% had a Housing Choice Voucher. One big thing that stuck out were only 43% of
respondents said they felt they understood their fair housing rights while 26% felt they experienced
discrimination. Somewhat shocking but not surprising, was only 3% of those filed a complaint. Most
stated they didn't know what good it would do (70% of respondents) while others were unfamiliar with
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March 14, 2019
Page 7 of 11
how to do it or afraid of retaliation. I n terms of barriers cited, affordable housing was overwhelmingly
cited as the primary barrier to fair housing choice, including all for types of households (large families,
small families, persons with disabilities, etc.) and the most common source of discrimination people noted
was having a Housing Choice Voucher. In terms of public policies that were identified as barriers none
received a majority, but the top ones were City funding practices followed by zoning and housing codes.
At focus groups and the public meeting, the comments mirrored many results from the survey. Iowa City
was noted as an expensive housing market, and incomes don't necessary match the cost of the market
and it is especially problematic where there is not a diversity of housing choices within a neighborhood (if
it is all single family it can be challenging for different groups to find housing). This includes both City
assisted housing and privately affordable housing because it is just not City assisted housing that is
affordable. For the housing stock it was also mentioned that there are low quality rentals, especially near
downtown, which can be problematic for persons who are in protected classes as well as accessibility
challenges in older parts of the City with properties not built to visitability standards.
There were several public policy challenges raised, development codes can increase costs and limit
flexibility, especially where design review is involved. Policies need to better align with goals and funding
that is allocated should match up with the goals the City has (it doesn't always). The City should also
streamline processes wherever they can including rental permitting, and the City needs to make sure they
enforce their rental housing standards so there is quality housing. Coordination was also cited as an
issue, between the City and surrounding jurisdictions and also with other actors (tenants, builders,
landlords, etc.) or educational institutions such as the school district and university. Overall education is
generally needed for tenants and landlords to better understand what fair housing rights are, what the
responsibilities of different parties are in the housing market and to better information people on
neighborhoods (people can be informally or formally steered towards certain neighborhoods) and the
survey corroborated that.
In terms of data observations, Iowa City is a college town and has more young people, fewer families,
and fewer children especially near downtown. Generally, near downtown there are fewer persons with
disabilities because it is a younger population, it is more ethnically, racially and culturally diverse, a lot
due to immigration into Iowa City especially from Asian populations, but also black/African American
populations as well. There are some racial/ethnic concentrations across the City, specifically Black/
Hispanic groups south of Highway 6 and Asian groups concentrated on the west side. None of these
concentrations meet the standard HUD for being a racially and ethnically concentrated area of poverty
however. Those areas do tend to have lower incomes but the lowest income areas tend to be nearer to
the university where students are. There are large limited English proficiency populations, especially
Spanish (3100 speakers) and Mandarin (2400 speakers). Segregation by race or ethnicity is considered
low in Iowa City based on the dissimilarity index standards, but it has been increasing over time. For the
economy, it is focused around education and healthcare, there is a high proportion of low-income
households due to student populations and that is increasing as well. Minority households tend to have
lower incomes in Iowa City, primarily outside downtown, and LMI (low moderate income) areas are
primarily to the south and west but there is a large LMI area downtown as well.
The majority of housing in Iowa City is rental, concentrated in around downtown and near the university.
Minority groups tend to have lower homeownership rates in Iowa City, which especially true for Black
households and households of two or more races. There has been a large increase in multifamily building
permits, peaking in 2016, much of it is downtown, and there are correspondingly higher vacancy rates
with that. That being noted, rents have increased faster than incomes or housing values. Housing values
have actually been closer to increases in income lately but rents increased more quickly. In terms of cost
burden (which means they are paying more than 30% of their income on housing), 16% of homeowners
and 64% of renters are cost burdened, a lot of whom are students based on non -familial status. Minority
households tend to experience housing issues at higher rates including housing cost burden and other
issues such as overcrowding and the quality of facilities.
Lehmann noted there is limited data on fair housing because things don't get reported, but of the data
they do have in Iowa City there tends to be around 10-12 fair housing complaints per year. Most of those
are based on discrimination by race, disability or sex. 113 tend to be outside the City's jurisdiction so they
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March 14, 2019
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get referred to the correct jurisdiction, 113 get closure at the City or withdrawn due to resolution and the
remaining 1/3 require further various levels of investigation. Data from the State or Federal level is even
more limited, most is based on Johnson County. Progress since the last plan, there were five findings and
while the City was making progress some of these findings have cropped up again. For example, racial
ethnic concentrations is still there, outreach and education is still an issue and a huge need.
Staff next looked at policies, public sector policies in addition to private sector policies and Lehmann
discussed those and where staff found impediments. For City development codes there is no reasonable
accommodation policy for persons with disabilities which is basically a streamlined approach for, say
someone in a wheelchair to put a ramp outside their house in a historic district where there are many
levels of complex policies to deal with. Staff is looking to adopt some sort of reasonable accommodation
policy to ensure people can be housed in older parts of the City without running into bureaucratic barriers.
Also staff is looking at generally increasing opportunities or choices for housing by allowing diverse
housing throughout the City. That will focus on increasing density because single family can be affordable
depending on construction but allowing more multifamily by right in residential areas would be good.
They are also looking at bedroom caps in multifamily as that can restrict large families and student living.
Finally looking at how permanent supportive housing is currently treated in the community because it is
treated as separate use only allowable in specific zones (essentially the Cross Park Place project where it
is long-term housing, more than a year lease). Housing Code has new requirements like rental permit
cap, increased inspections, which may affect protected classes, these changes are relatively new as of
2018 so it is hard to know the impact or results but it will be tracked.
Vaughan asked if those new requirements were federal requirements. Lehmann replied it was a State
requirement change where a city could not distinguish between nonfamily and family households in the
zoning code which was a way the City was trying to balance student housing downtown. When the State
made that change the City reviewed the process and put a cap on areas near the university and also
increased inspections for certain types of units.
For affordable housing assistance, Lehmann stated the City put more local funding towards affordable
housing initiatives but it doesn't have the same federal requirements, so staff has not been tracking
protected characteristics for beneficiaries. As such, impacts are difficult to ascertain for all City assistance
because more than half the units created aren't being tracked. With new funding comes new programs
and lots of requirements and staff is making sure administrative rules are well coordinated.
For site selection and neighborhood revitalization, Lehmann stated the Affordable Housing Location
Model and rental permit cap interact in complex ways; both affect certain types of housing in certain areas
at certain times. Staff is working to identify those affects for affordable housing and service providers, how
they impact choices for protected classes and seeing if there are ways to streamline some of these
programs as they come into play. Currently there are 1215 Housing Choice Vouchers, about 850 of which
are in Iowa City. Within Iowa City, Housing Choice Vouchers are still relatively concentrated in certain
neighborhoods, typically the more affordable neighborhoods thus the concentration. However based on
the survey there is also some evidence landlords may still be discriminating against Housing Choice
Voucher recipients. Therefore providing more information to Housing Choice Voucher recipients is
needed, further alerting them of their rights and encouraging them to live in other areas of the City is
something staff is recommending. Also The Housing Authority has a preference categories with families,
persons with disabilities, and elderly with residency in Iowa City as the first group to receive vouchers.
Staff recommends an equity analysis to make sure the policy is targeting the correct populations for
service as based on the CITY STEPS Consolidated Plan.
With regards to home lending, Lehmann noted the data showed Black and Hispanic households have
elevated rates of denials, however a study that was conducted a year ago showed there are
discrepancies in data entry and there are issues with a small sample size. Staff wants to follow up to
make sure this is not discrimination and will continue to monitor. Additionally they recommend additional
fair housing education for lenders and borrowers.
Alter asked if the City has anyone that works with lenders and people who are applying to help them
through the process. Lehmann stated the City does trainings for lenders but is unsure of how regularly it
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March 14, 2019
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is done. These trainings are also provided for the general public. Kubly added if a person is part of The
Housing Choice Voucher program they are assigned a case worker to help them navigate the process.
Eastham asked about impediments related to realtors. Lehmann said he had no data on it but based on
the focus groups it doesn't seem to be much of an issue, it seems the larger issues for steering people to
certain locations is word of mouth from others in the community. Eastham said he hears anecdotal
statements about realtors engaging in steering certain people to certain locations of town. McKinstry
noted when he has talked to realtors it appears everyone is super sensitive to steering and know it is
illegal and unethical and are hypervigilant in not steering people to certain locations of town. He was
startled to find there are four or five protected classes here in Iowa City more than in other areas of the
State or Nation. He stated that two woman in Missouri, this year, were denied the opportunity to live in a
retirement center because they were married to each other. Because of situations like that McKinstry is
so glad Iowa City has these additional protected classes.
Lehmann noted for the rental market there is a mismatch between the cost of rentals and incomes and
staff recommends more rentals in high demand areas, especially downtown, and considering ways to
reduce the cost of housing such as group living options. The also recommend more education on the
protections for renters and keeping landlords apprised of the protected classes and education of best
practices. Additionally staff needs to make sure all fair housing complaints are dealt with in a timely
manner and resolved quickly. Since there is a lack of metrics for policy impacts staff will need to make
sure they measure these fair housing impacts on protected classes. Lehmann noted staff does not do a
lot of testing in Iowa City but it is one of the better ways identify discrimination or steering.
Finally Lehmann talked about other observations worth noting. There are ethnical and racial
concentrations so encouraging a range of housing throughout the City while continuing to invest in
minority, LMI or protected class neighborhoods is important. Homeownership rates are lower for minority
groups so it is important to encouraging homebuyer programs in targeted areas for protected classes.
For elderly households and persons with disabilities, especially those with ambulatory issues who cannot
walk around easily, there is a need to focus on areas of town with accessibility barriers to help ensure
aging in place is possible. Student populations have the lowest incomes, so there is a need to ensure all,
especially those who are LMI or in protected classes, can afford to live in the community.
In terms of next steps, Lehmann stated staff is working on the internal review of the draft of the Fair
Housing Study, hoping to get a draft to stakeholders in April and start to let the document be public for
adoption process, there will be a public meeting with HCDC on May 16 and then go before Council either
May 21 or June 4 and have the document adopted prior to June 30.
Eastham stated he wanted to see the data behind this study for the HCDC review
Harms noted that when someone has an issue, time constraints for resolving the issue is enormous,
especially for working individuals. Perhaps the City could increase hours of availability to help the public.
Fixmer-Oraiz noted a recurring theme in the Study is a need for education and outreach and there
definitely needs to be more for renters, landlords and potential homeowners. Eastham stated if the City is
going to put resources toward this education and outreach it should be for consumers, realtors and banks
already have some educational opportunities. Fixmer-Oraiz noted the university does a freshman intake
and perhaps the City can provide education on fair housing. Lehmann noted the university does a "Renter
101" event and Iowa City provides information at that. Vaughan suggested something other than just a
written brochure, it doesn't often speak to a lot of people, and is easily tossed. She noted it should be
written to speak to all individuals, regardless of the level of education.
Padron noted it is important to remember not every resident has a computer or internet and much of what
comes from the City is via email or directs one to a website. Harms noted with the elderly or others they
may not want to use a computer and the City needs to be cognizant of that. Lehmann noted they did
hand out hard copies of the survey in the senior living areas, agencies and also at the library for those
that did not want to use a computer. The surveys were provided in multiple languages.
Housing and Community Development Commission
March 14, 2019
Page 10 of 11
Vaughan asked if there was educational pieces created do they have to be done by staff or can
volunteers assist. Lehmann said they would welcome volunteers and partners.
McKinstry is happy to see the interest in collecting data on housing in the City.
Fixmer-Oraiz asked if the City could partner with the school district and send information home in back
packs. Lehmann stated the school district has tightened up on allowing things to be handed out but
improved coordination between the City and schools is needed.
Any additional comments or questions can be directed to Lehmann.
STAFF/COMMISSION COMMENT:
Lehmann noted that Council has appointed Peter Nkumu to the Commission, he is the president of the
Congolese Community of Iowa and will be a great addition to the Commission.
Staff is interviewing consultants for the Consolidated Plan this month.
Staff, Padron and the head of the Human Rights Commission had a brief discussion on the ways to
revamp the Aid to Agencies process, conversations will continue in April.
The next HCDC meeting will be April 18 where we will discuss projects not conforming to the
unsuccessful delayed project policy which will include a report from The Arthur Street Healthy Living
Center. They will also have HCDC monitoring reports and begin Aid to Agency visioning process and also
a background information presentation on the Affordable Housing Model. Staff will present the Annual
Action Plan and continue the Fair Housing Study review.
Eastham noted he heard from an agency partner some agencies are having discussions with the City
Manager on Aid to Agency funds and what those agencies feel the City should be funding. Lehmann said
this will be part of the discussion at the next meeting.
Lehmann stated Community Development Week is April 22-26, there will be some type of proclamation
and Vaughan suggested doing some type of tour of projects that are complete, to see the impact.
Lehmann noted there is a new tenant education program that the local Homeless Coordination Board is
putting together, it is intended as a possible alternative to eviction for tenants. It will start April 9 in the
Iowa City Public Library and be held every Tuesday through May 14 for a total of six modules.
Fixmer-Oraiz had a question on monies from other sources and specifically The United Way who gives
out all kinds of money to agencies. Lehmann noted the application process does go through The United
Way along with Coralville, Johnson County and United Way.
ADJOURNMENT:
Fixmer-Oraiz moved to adjourn. Alter seconded. Passed 7-0
Housing and Community Development Commission
March 14, 2019
Page 11 of 11
Housing and Community
Development Commission
Attendance Record
Name
Terms Exp.
7/10
9/20
10111
11/15
12/20
1/17
2121
3/14
Alter, Megan
6/30/21
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Brouse, Mitch
6/30/21
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
Eastham, Charlie
6/30/20
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Fixmer-Oraiz, Vanessa
6/30/20
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
Harms, Christine
6/30/19
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Lamkins, Bob
6/30/19
0/E
O/E
X
O/E
O/E
.
McKinstry, John
6/30/20
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Padron, Maria
6/30/20
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
Vaughan, Paula
6/30119
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Resigned from Commission
Key:
X
= Present
0
= Absent
O/E
= Absent/Excused
___
= Vacant
Item Number: 5.b.
Awl Q-
CITY OE IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org
May 7, 2019
Item Number: 5.c.
Awl Q-
CITY OE IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org
May 7, 2019
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Parks & Recreation Commission: March 13
IOWA CITY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION
MINUTES APPROVED
MARCH 13, 2019
RECREATION CENTER — MEETING ROOM B
Members Present: Suzanne Bender, Steve Bird, Luke Foelsch, Cara Hamann, Ben Russell, Angie
Smith, Jamie Venzon, Brianna Wills, Joe Younker
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: Brad Barker, Zac Hall, Juli Seydell Johnson
Others Present: None
CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Younker called the meeting to order at 5 p.m.
INTRODUCTION OF NEW MEMBER:
Younker introduced Brianna Wills, new Commission member to the board. Wills shared that she has lived
in Iowa City for eight years and has four children. Her husband is an orthopedic surgeon in Iowa City and
she is the Executive Director of Old Brick. She reminded commission members of their family's donation
in honor of their son Calder Wills. She further noted that being a member of the commission will help them
determine where best to direct future donations. All members and staff introduced themselves to Wills as
well.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council action):
Moved by Russell, approved by Hamann, to recommend the designation of the Ned Ashton House as
an Iowa City Local Historic Landmark based on the criteria for local designation. Passed 9-0.
Moved by Venzon, seconded by Smith, to recommend the designation of the Old Settler's Association
of Johnson County Cabins at City Park as an Iowa City Local Historic Landmark based on the
criteria for local designation. Passed 8-1, Bentler voting no.
OTHER FORMAL ACTION:
Moved by Smith, seconded by Venzon, to approve the January 9, 2019 minutes as written. Passed
9-0.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION
None
HISTORIC LOCAL LANDMARK DESIGNATION FOR THE NED ASHTON HOUSE AND THE
CITY PARK CABINS — JULI SEYDELL JOHNSON
Seydell Johnson directed commission members to the information included in their agenda packets
regarding these two items.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
March 13, 2019
Page 2 of 6
The first item discussed was the Ned Ashton House. She explained that the Ashton House was listed in the
National Register of Historic Places in 2001. She further noted that this designation would require Historic
Preservation Commission approval of any significant changes to the exterior of the building. Seydell
Johnson said that this has been a practice of staff, even though it was not required, whenever changes have
been made to the house and/or the property. Younker asked if there were any necessary repairs needed to
the property that could become a concern if listed as an historic landmark. Seydell Johnson said there is
nothing planned. Bentler asked if there would be any restrictions on usage of the house. Seydell Johnson
said there would not be any restrictions on use. She further noted that this designation would have no effect
on the landscape. She pointed out that the patio on the back of the house would have to go through a review,
however, staff made efforts to make sure that it was appropriate to the building when installed.
Moved by Russell, approved by Hamann, to recommend the designation of the Ned Ashton House as
an Iowa City Local Historic Landmark based on the criteria for local designation. Passed 9-0.
Seydell Johnson noted that the Old Settler's Association of Johnson County Cabins at City park (a.k.a. City
Park Cabins) were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in September 2013. It is recommended
to designate the City Park Cabins as an Iowa City Historic Landmark.
Bentler questioned the criterion item which states that for a property to become a Local Historic Landmark,
it must possess integrity of location. The larger cabin was originally built on a different site and moved to
City Park.
Moved by Venzon, seconded by Smith, to recommend the designation of the Old Settler's Association
of Johnson County Cabins at City Park as an Iowa City Local Historic Landmark based on the
criteria for local designation. Passed 8-1, Bentler voting no.
REPORT ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF
Parks & Recreation Director — Juli Seydell Johnson:
• Willow Creek Park: Seydell Johnson reported that the renovations of Willow Creek park are
moving forward. She shared photos and plans of the new playground. She noted that the restroom
will stay in its current location, however the shelter will now be separate from the restrooms. She
shared that the playground will include a musical theme throughout. The playground will include
several pod areas, a stage for play acting, two parent/child swings and other features. The larger
play structure will have a poured -in-place surface underneath which increases accessibility. There
will be a quiet space adjacent to the playground as well. Restrooms will be like those installed at
Happy Hollow and Creekside Parks. The bids for this project are due on March 20. Construction
will begin this spring with completion scheduled for September of 2019. Foelsch inquired about
the musical theme. Seydell Johnson explained that it was a request from CARTHA (Collaborative
Arts in Research Translation for Human Advancement) and a local rotary club, noting the
promoting healing effects of music. Younker noted that he believed there to be discussion about
fencing around the park. Seydell Johnson said that it was included in the original plan but that it
did not fit within the budget. Bird asked that with the number of bids coming in over budget
recently, if staff considered this when creating the budget for this project. Seydell Johnson said that
yes, the bidding climate was considered.
• City Park Adventure Play: Seydell Johnson stated that staff and contractors are still working on the
design process. She reminded Commission that this playground will be built into the hillside
between upper and lower City Park. After not being satisfied with the first two design concepts,
staff asked for more funding to provide the fun adventurous playground that is desired. Staff and
designers looked at options to include an embankment slide built into the hill, however it did not
fit within the budget. Instead there will still be a tube slide on the hillside that will provide the same
experience. The playground will also include a log climbing structure and a merry-go-round. Wills
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
March 13, 2019
Page 3 of 6
asked if staff had considered a spider -web play structure. Seydell Johnson said that staff did
consider such a structure, however, with there being like -structures at school playgrounds, it was
decided to go with something a little different. Smith asked about the rope bridges etc., that had
been discussed. Seydell Johnson said these items were looked at as well but would make the project
over -budget. Younker asked if these items could be added later. Seydell Johnson said it would not
be likely since this structure is being adapted specifically for this location, however, it may be
possible to add additional elements around the site. Younker asked about the river animal theme
that was discussed at a previous meeting. Seydell Johnson said that there will be two spaces that
will have stamped animal prints on colored concrete.
2020 Projects: Seydell Johnson noted that staff is already making plans for summer projects
scheduled for 2020. These will include a restroom, shelter and playground at Wetherby Park. There
will be neighborhood meetings held and PIN grants offered as well. Fairmeadows Park will have a
preschool -sized play space installed. The smaller playground was selected as there is a playground
for older children available at Grant Wood Elementary which is very near the park. A shelter and
playground will also be installed at Scott Park that will be similar to the structures at Cardigan and
Frauenholtz Miller Parks. Napoleon Softball Complex will also get a new playground installed.
Seydell Johnson noted that Snyder & Associates are the designers for these projects.
Recreation Center Updates: Staff is currently accepting proposals from non-profit groups that may
be interested in using the current racquetball and game room spaces as office space post
construction. Five groups attended the pre -proposal meeting.
Iowa Parks &Recreation Association Spring Conference: Seydell Johnson announced that a few
members of the department were nominated to receive awards at this year's conference. Those
included Tammy Neumann for the Administrative Assistant Award, Joe Wagner for the Athletic
Fields Maintenance Award, Kate Connell for the Young Professional Award, and Nancy Pope, a
part time temporary staff member who has been very committed to the edible gardens and other
programs with the Recreation Department. While none were selected for an award, she commented
that all staff of the department are worth of an award.
Recreation Division Superintendent — Brad Barker:
• Summer Planning: Barker reported that staff is currently working on the second draft of the
Summer Activity Guide, as well as the Summer Camp packet. Summer Camp registration will
begin on March 29 and all other program registration will start on April 25.
• Swimming Program: Barker reminded commission of the swim lesson program being offered to
students from both Faith Academy and Alexander Elementary. He said that 26 kids from Faith
Academy and 57 from Alexander Elementary participated. Staff will continue expanding upon
this program.
• City Park Pool Turns 70: Barker explained that staff is planning a summer -long celebration of the
pool this summer with a couple of events for each month.
• Swim Scholarship Program: The 24-hour swim event held annually to raise funds for the Swim
Lesson Scholarship Program will move to City Park Pool this year. This event will be held on
Sunday, September 1.
• Staffing: Barker announced that Matthew Eckhardt, Aquatics Program Supervisor, will be leaving
his position after working for the Recreation Department for 11 years on April 5. Staff is working
on posting this job opening which will initially be open for internal City staff only.
• Partnerships Barker announced that the new partnership with the Iowa Sports Foundation is going
well with 27 teams signed up from Iowa City, Cedar Rapids and the corridor. Staff will work
towards offering some different options that people have expressed interest in. This may include
smaller group sport opportunities or drop-in sessions which are not as competitive as organized
team sports. Many adults no longer have the time to commit to a season long team sport.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
March 13, 2019
Page 4 of 6
• Garden Plots: Garden Plot renewals have begun for those who leased a space in 2018.
Registration will open to the public on April 1 for those plots that are still available.
• Summer Camp: Staff will be doing some more heat map studies to determine what areas of Iowa
City are currently served by the summer camp program and those that are not. This will help with
planning continued outreach. Barker will present their findings at a future Commission meeting.
Parks Division Superintendent — Zac Hall
• Flood Potential: With the melting of the snow and the added rain, Hall reported that staff will
keep a close eye on areas that are prone to flooding. Staff closed a section of the trail at
Riverfront Crossings that runs under Highway 6 due to flooding today. Staff will keep in touch
with the Corps of Engineers and continue monitoring areas for flooding.
• Hickory Hill Park: Work continues at Hickory Hill Park. Engineering will be hiring a contractor
clean up the creek bank, to remove logs from the creek and continue the stabilization process
along the creek. Continued invasive species removal will take place at the south end between the
creek and the trail. Hall announced that the trail section off First Avenue and the parking lot will
be closed for renovation. He noted that the contractor is working against a tight timeline due to
the bat habitat restrictions that begin on April 1. The other part of this project will include the
bridge improvement at Hickory Heights Lane. This will be a major improvement to the park and
will provide better access for maintenance vehicles.
• Creekside Park: Hall said that the contractor will be back to work in the park soon after having to
stop work in January due to the snowfall.
• Gardens: Staff continues working with Backyard Abundance on designs for Chadek Green,
Walden Green and Creekside gardens. Work will begin at Chadek Green Park this fall with the
other locations to follow.
• Signage: It was noted in the Parks Master Plan that there is a need for more signage at the
entrances of parks. Hall announced that ten new signs will be installed in the parks this summer.
• Staffing: Hall announced that Tyler Baird has been promoted from Horticulture Specialist to the
Assistant Parks Superintendent position. Other staff promotions include Steve Erickson who has
been promoted to the Horticulture Specialist position, and Nate Steel has been promoted to the
Maintenance Worker I -Forestry position vacated by Erickson.
CHAIRS REPORT:
No report.
COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS:
Bender updated the Commission with a report from the Tree Advisory Committee. She noted that the
committee discussed the Emerald Ash Borer issue. She reminded commission that the plan was for 400
trees to be treated. She said that some interesting ideas were discussed. One was that if a tree is
considered marginally infected to not treat to save money that could instead be invested in replacement
trees.
Bentler asked Hall to share the Arbor Day events discussed by the committee. Hall shared that staff is
working with Green Iowa AmeriCorps volunteers as well as Trees Forever and the school district to plan
events for Arbor Day. He said that they will be doing a large-scale tree planting event with students from
Hoover Elementary in the morning and City High students in the afternoon of Wednesday, April 24 at
Terry Trueblood Recreation Area. On Thursday, April 25, there will provide a presentation for students at
Shimek Elementary and more Arbor Day celebration activities at Willow Wind School and Regency
Heights on Friday.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
March 13, 2019
Page 5 of 6
Bentler said the committee talked about ways to encourage property owners to plant more trees. She
noted that Marion has a program where they add $1 to individual's property taxes to help in the cost of
additional trees for the community. The committee agreed, however, that taxation is never well received
so turned their discussion to incentive ideas. One idea was to possibly offer a small discount of .50¢41
off a property owners water bill if they plant a tree. Wills asked if the City has a goal of how many trees
they would like to see planted. Hall noted that there are goals noted in the Urban Forest Management
Plan. Wills suggested that perhaps the City could make it a friendly competition. Younker noted that
perhaps the staff present to commission and overview of what other cities are doing. Wills asked about
the electric company incentives that have been offered in the past. Hall said that there has been a change
at the state level and that this program is being disbanded. Bentler said she believes there is one more year
to take advantage of the program. Smith noted that the process will need to be monitored so that there is a
variety of trees that are planted. Bentler said that it is difficult to monitor private properties, but certainly
can monitor those being planted on the right-of-way. Smith suggested that perhaps a list of preferred trees
be shared with the community. Younker suggested that staff invite stakeholders (realtors, developers, etc.)
to a future meeting to get their input.
Bentler noted that she saw in the minutes that it was requested to return some of the trash receptacles back
in City Park and wanted to express her support of this request.
ADJOURNMENT:
Moved by Bentler, seconded by Venzon, to adiourn the meeting at 5:59 p.m. Motion passed 9-0.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
March 13, 2019
Page 6 of 6
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused
NAME
°�°
00
00
p"
00
00
00
°°
M
�
00
e4
�
M
M
TERM
EXPIRES
n
P
c
o
~
^`
Suzanne
12/31/20
O/E
NM
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
NM
X
Bentler
Steve Bird
12/31/21
X
NM
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
NM
X
Wayne Fett
12/31/18
X
NM
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
Lucas
12/31/22
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
x
NM
X
Foelsch
Cara
12/31/19
X
NM
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
NM
X
Hamann
Lucie
12/31/18
X
NM
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
Laurian
Ben Russell
12/31/21
X
NM
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
NM
X
Angie Smith
12/31/21
X
NM
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
NM
X
Jamie
12/31/20
X
NM
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
NM
X
Venzon
Brianna
12/31/22
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
O/E
NM
X
Wills
Joe Younker
12/31/19
X
NM
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
NM
X
NM= No meeting LQ = No meeting due to lack of quorum
* = Not a member now
i
CITY OE IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org
May 7, 2019
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Planning & Zoning Commission: April 4
Item Number: 5.d.
MINUTES APPROVED
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
APRIL 4, 2019-7:00 PM — FORMAL MEETING
E M M A J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Larry Baker, Carolyn Dyer, Mike Hensch, Max Parsons, Billie
Townsend
MEMBERS ABSENT: Phoebe Martin, Mark Signs
STAFF PRESENT: Sara Hektoen, Anne Russett
OTHERS PRESENT:
CALL TO ORDER:
Hensch called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
DISCUSSION ON THE GOOD NEIGHBOR POLICY, APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS,
AND REZONING CRITERIA:
Russett noted this discussion came up during the March 12 City Council/Planning &
Zoning Commission consult meeting where the Mayor requested the Commission
discuss some of the items presented at that meeting, mainly related to the Good
Neighbor Policy application requirement and rezoning criteria. Russett noted this
evening the Commission doesn't need to recommend any items, this is just the start of
the conversation and in May the City Council will also discuss this item so any
information discussed this evening will be shared with Council and Council will then
make any specific recommendations to staff next month.
Russett stated the Good Neighbor Meeting Policy was established in 1998 and reviewed
in 2013 and at that time both staff and City Council felt Good Neighbor Meetings should
be kept voluntary, and today staff recommends meetings remain voluntary as well for a
variety of reasons.
1. The projects that come before the Commission and that staff review are all very
different, some are large scale with large impact, some are small with small
impacts.
2. Some meetings happen early in the process of the rezoning stage and don't
happen at platting.
3. There are notification requirements the City sends out as well as postings on the
site for notification to neighbors.
Russett shared a table that showed some of the applications the Commission reviewed
in the last few months and whether or not a Good Neighbor Meeting was held. The
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 4, 2019
Page 2 of 8
results are varied, there were a couple of rezonings (Moss Ridge Road and Highway 1
rezoning and the 2130 Muscatine Avenue rezoning) that did not hold Good Neighbor
Meetings, the vacation the Commission reviewed a few weeks ago did not hold a Good
Neighbor Meeting but the larger scale projects like Forest View, Cherry Creek and the
affordable housing project on the east side did hold Good Neighbor Meetings.
Russett noted the Commission has expressed some concerns about the number of
people who are notified of the Good Neighbor Meetings. The requirement is for
notification for neighbors within 300 feet of the project area. Russett showed a map of
an area to show what 300 feet looks like, the example property was 2130 Muscatine
Avenue. Staff has not done a comprehensive review of what other local jurisdictions
require, but based on the cities staff is aware of the 300 foot requirement is comparable,
they are aware of one other jurisdiction that does use a much larger area because it is
rural in nature.
Russett next presented some background on rezonings and how staff looks at rezonings.
Rezonings are requests to use the land differently and are not always tied to a specific
project. When staff receives an application for a rezoning they review that rezoning
against all of the uses that are permitted in that zone district. They look at the intensities
that are permitted, the densities, and they review whether they are consistent with the
Comprehensive Plan vision as well as whether or not they would be compatible with the
neighborhood. She noted sometimes it is difficult to separate the rezoning of the land
from the specific development project that is being proposed. Often both the
Commission and the City Council want more information on the project, staff does as
well, particularly for the larger projects. In terms of application requirements for
rezonings, there are two types of rezonings. First is the standard rezoning which is one
base zone to another base zone designation (i.e. RS -5 to RM -12 or CO -1 to CC -2). The
other type is the OPD or Planned Development Overlay where there is a base zoning
designation and then an actual overlay. These are often done when there are sensitive
areas on the site. The application requirements for these two different types of
rezonings vary. There are more details on OPD rezonings required (landscaping.
elevations, concept plans) than on standard rezonings.
Russett showed another table of projects the Commission has reviewed over the past
few months along with the level of detail provided for those rezonings. Different levels of
detail are provided depending on the project. The Lower West Branch Road and Taft
Avenue and the Moss Ridge Road and Highway 1 rezonings only provided concept
plans whereas the rezoning of the multifamily housing on the east side provided a
concept plan, elevations and landscaping.
In terms of criteria, Russett stated the criteria is different between a standard rezoning
and a Planned Development Overlay rezoning. The general criteria for standard
rezonings is consistency with the Comprehensive Plan and compatibility with the
neighborhood. For OPD rezonings they look at those two criteria but also specific
criteria related to density, design, impact to streets and utilities, etc.
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 4, 2019
Page 3 of 8
It is staff's goal to have a consistent message to applicants in terms of what is required at the
application stage for various application types, particularly rezonings. Staff must often times
provide advice to applicants on what they should provide so the Commission can make an
informed decision and that should be a consistent message. If they are asking for concept plans
or landscaping plans that are not required as part of the application the applicant has the right to
question why they need to provide it. It is also staff's goal to not require too much detail that the
process becomes increasingly burdensome.
Baker asked if the area of notification and the lack of a requirement for a Good Neighbor Meeting
is the same no matter what the type of application. Russett confirmed that was correct. Baker
suggested that perhaps the larger the development the wider the area of notification ought to be
as well as the requirement of a Good Neighbor Meeting. He feels the impact of the project
should dictate a different standard.
Parsons questioned how to clarify a size of a project. Does that mean acres it covers, because
in the example of the Chauncey project, it has a huge impact but yet only covers a small area.
Baker suggested possibility density as a measure as well as size of acres involved. In most
cases number of acres involved would create a higher density.
Hektoen noted the State Code allows people who live within 200 feet of a rezoning have the
authority to protest rezonings and trigger a super majority vote from Council.
Baker is not sure that addresses the issue, he still sees a bigger difference in the projects on
Muscatine Avenue and one the size of Forest View and how the community input and
notifications for each of those projects should perhaps be different. Russett said for a project
such as Forest View staff would, and has, told the applicant they should hold a Good Neighbor
Meeting as it is very important for the project. Baker appreciates that, noting if they don't hold a
Good Neighbor Meeting then they will hear from the neighbors at the Commission meeting. He
also asked if there is any interest in having the area of notification larger for larger scale
developments.
Hensch noted there are a couple common things the Commission hears from the public at
meetings, they say they are never notified (but they are usually outside of the circle or just
ignored their mail) or they were not invited to a Good Neighbor Meeting. Hensch said he does
struggle with an application that chooses to not hold a Good Neighbor Meeting, philosophically
he is opposed to that because it is a good communication tool, it shows concern for the
neighbors and respect to the neighbors. It does not mean the applicant has to do or change
anything to appease the neighbors but maybe small things can be changed and problems
avoided. He does not see a downside of requiring a Good Neighbor Meeting for a rezoning. He
does not see it as necessary for a vacation or plat, but for a rezoning, when someone moves into
a neighborhood they know what the neighborhood should look like, but with a rezoning it brings a
choice of changes for land uses and could change a character of a neighborhood and therefore
the neighbors should be involved in that decision. Part of the role of the Commission is to do
what is best for the community. He feels requiring a Good Neighbor Meeting and expanding the
notification area is a good thing. He understands it won't solve all the problems but there does
need to be changes. Putting notification in the newspaper is not the solution, no one reads
newspapers anymore, and it is time to rethink how these notifications are being presented.
Perhaps they should be done via social media. Hensch did note he does not want to create
more work for staff so it must be put on the responsibility of the developer.
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 4, 2019
Page 4of8
Hektoen asked what Hensch would envision the consequence being if a developer doesn't hold
a Good Neighbor Meeting. Hensch said the developer then could simply not proceed with the
rezoning. Parsons asked if notice goes out, no one responds, then what it the purpose of
holding a Good Neighbor Meeting. Hensch said that is fine, at least the option was there.
Parsons asked what would constitute a Good Neighbor Meeting, could the developer hold it at
their office at an inconvenient time. Hensch said there are already rules for Good Neighbor
Meetings set from Neighborhood Development Services on what constitutes a meeting. Russett
said the current process is the applicant would set up the meeting, staff would work with the
applicant on developing the letter to the neighbors and creating the list of the people who would
get the invitation. She noted staff does attend the meetings, they do not moderate them, but are
there in case there are questions related to processes.
Dyer also agrees that Good Neighbor Meetings should be required and also there has to be
better notice for projects with bigger impacts for the community at large and especially the
neighborhood. In the case of Forest View they did hold Good Neighbor Meetings and that was
good but there was not good notification of the meetings. Additionally that project will affect
everyone on the Peninsula not just those within 300 feet. In earlier meetings the people living in
Idyllwild came to express their concern about drainage and therefore a whole lot of work was
done regarding drainage as a consequence. The project affects whole neighborhoods, not just
300 or 500 feet from the edge of the project. She also agreed there has to be better ways of
notifying neighbors, more visible ways. In the case of big buildings, such as the ones downtown,
that concerns everyone, not just those within 300 feet. It will affect the skyline, traffic, and
aesthetics for the entire city. She is not sure what the answer is regards who to decide which
projects are large (area, density, dollar value, etc.). In the example of the Chauncey there were
lots of people at the zoning meetings and Council meetings because those people were not in
the area of which to be invited to the Good Neighbor Meetings.
Russet asked Dyer about projects that are downtown and affect the skyline does that concern
include Riverfront Crossings. Dyer confirmed she would include Riverfront Crossings when
discussing downtown skylines.
Hensch noted the issue of if the Commission receives a report from the Good Neighbor Meetings
has also come up in the past. Sometimes they occur but the Commission does not get a report.
He also discussed the inconsistency in requirements and the Commission decisions and that is
true, sometimes the Commission is aggressive on a project developer and sometimes back off
regarding elevations, concept drawings and construction material lists. He agrees there needs to
be consistency and developers deserve the right to know what is required, but these items are
what helps the Commission make their decisions. It helps the Commission make a correct
decision for a neighborhood if they can see exactly what the developer wants to do with the
rezoning.
Baker noted that was one of the problems with Forest View is there are design standards and
guidelines but that doesn't really show what will actually be built on that area. Hensch said there
were some concepts with that application, they just didn't have any elevations. He understands
some of the big projects will be phased in over time so all details may not be available but to deal
in trust and hope doesn't always work out. He also knows that sometimes it does require the
developer to have certain drawings created and that costs money, but if they want the
development they should be willing to invest in the process.
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 4, 2019
Page 5 of 8
Baker questioned however if a developer shows a drawing or elevations at the rezoning, how
obligated are they to follow those. Hensch noted they are not obligated but it shows a good faith
effort. Hektoen noted the drawings or elevations can be made as a condition of the rezoning, to
say they must have substantial compatibility with concept plans show.
Dyer noted that some of the OPDs they have reviewed over the past few years have required
changes before approval and the developers have ended up being happy with the changes
suggested by the Commission and ended up being better projects for the community.
Sometimes it is providing more open space in a family development or changes in building
materials to add distinction. She feels strongly that multifamily projects and OPDs need to have
concept drawings and elevations.
Hensch also said often a developer comes before the Commission, the 45 -day clock is ticking,
and they don't have concept drawings or elevations it can seem like a "rubber-stamp" being
pushed though. He feels in many cases the projects get so much better when there has been
this input by the Commission and the public and developers come back with better solutions.
Townsend noted that when there is a rezoning, there are the signs that go up, so it would be nice
to have Good Neighbor Meetings so the community can find out more details and an opportunity
to ask questions. Otherwise people see the signs and have to call City Staff and ask the
questions, staff may or may not have the answers to. Dyer asked if the wording on the signs is
legislative or could there be more information put on the signs. Hektoen doesn't feel the
wordage is codified. Dyer said an attachment to the sign could post when the Good Neighbor
Meeting is being held.
Baker feels the consensus is a recommendation to require a Good Neighbor Meeting for all
rezonings and elevations for all projects.
Hensch said this is just an initial discussion meeting and they can come back to this at the next
meeting after some thought. He would like the suggestions to be thoughtful, not detrimental to
staff time, and helpful to citizens.
Hektoen noted that requiring site plans or concept plans it is important to note that all projects
are different and the stage of which they are in when they come before the Commission are
different so it is important to keep in mind within the zoning context the Commission has the tool
to impose conditions to address public needs that are created by the rezoning. So if there is an
application that is very nebulous or will be a 15 year build -out and the Commission can articulate
the public need, they can impose a design review as a condition of the rezoning to come back
before the Commission with a concept plan.
Baker asked if that could have been imposed on the Forest View project. Hektoen said the
condition of a design review was imposed. Dyer said that would be a staff review though, not
Commission. Russett said for the project at 12 East Court Street, they did add the condition of a
design review by the Commission. The project is in Riverfront Crossings, Pentacrest Gardens
apartments. Baker asked if the Council could also impose such a condition and Hektoen said
they can.
Russett will have this discussion topic on the next meeting agenda as well for continued
discussion.
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 4, 2019
Page 6 of 8
Parsons stated his reservations of making Good Neighbor Meetings required, he doesn't feel
they are necessary for all rezonings. He feels the trust is in staff, they know the rules and see all
the applications and they know what the Commission wants and what the public would or would
not want in their neighborhoods. He feels requiring such meetings for small projects would be a
burden on staff.
Townsend agrees with Parsons but does feel there should be a way,people in the neighborhood
could find out more information, such as having a link posted on the site, etc.
Parsons asked when the notices of rezonings go out to the public. Russett said it must be a
minimum of seven days but they try to have them out at least two weeks prior. Dyer noted if the
neighbors are to have an impact, they need to be part of the process long before the rezoning
meeting.
CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: MARCH 21, 2019
Dyer moved to approve the meeting minutes of March 21, 2019.
Townsend seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 5-0.
PLANNING AND ZONING INFORMATION:
Russett gave an update from the Council meeting on Tuesday where the Council discussed a
few things pertinent to the Commission. First, staff presented Council with a residential infill
analysis and she will send out the PowerPoint presentation to the Commission. Staff has been
directed by Council to work with the consulting firm, Opticos Design, to think about ways to
address out of scale or oversized infill residential. Also the City has executed a contract with
Opticos to work on a Form -Based Code for the South District. Council has asked staff to explore
an amendment to the contract to include a visioning session for the North Side Marketplace as
well as a parking study for the North Side Marketplace. That area is Linn Street east to Gilbert
Street and Market Street to Bloomington.
In terms of recent applications sent to Council. 2130 Muscatine Avenue rezoning was adopted
as well as Rollins Pass preliminary plat. Council had the Forest View public hearing on Tuesday
and was continued to the April 23 meeting, staff has received some protest petition so are
running the numbers to see if a super majority vote is needed.
Hektoen mentioned there will be two people coming from Minneapolis to discuss the Race, Place
and Land Use Minneapolis 2040 Plan. They have eliminated single-family zoning and will be
speaking about that at the Iowa Memorial Union on April 25 at 7:30pm.
Baker asked when Council would vote on Forest View. Parsons said that is not known for sure.
Baker asked if there was time as a Commission to have discussion at the next meeting on
whether they wanted to recommend to Council to impose a condition of their vote to have
elevations and design review to come back before Council for approval. Russett said the
Commission has already made their recommendation to Council on that application. Hektoen
noted that Planning & Zoning's review of the application has passed, the recommendation has
Planning and Zoning Commission
April 4, 2019
Page 7 of 8
been made. Hensch said they can reach out to the Councilors as citizens.
Baker noted that the Forest View project is such a long-term project with three distinct
components and he wondered if a developer could do one of the components and not do the
others. Russett said there are times where things are platted as outlots or zoned ID (interim
development) but once you have the zoning designation and it's platted that is what is done.
There could be a scenario where nothing gets built. Baker is concerned about the commercial
area being developed but the residential is deferred, delayed or whatever. Russett agreed that
could happen. Hektoen noted they should not be discussing the Forest View project as it was
not on the agenda, but it was noted in the recommendation they must provide the replacement
housing in the first phase of the project.
Baker will not be at the May 16 meeting.
Adjournment:
Dyer moved to adjourn.
Parsons seconded.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 5-0.
PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2018-2019
KEY:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
- = Not a Member
5/17
6/7
6/21
7/5
8/16
9/6
9/20
10/18
12/20
1/3
1/17
(W.S.)
2/4
2121
3/7
3/21
4/4
BAKER, LARRY
-- --
-- --
-- --
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
DYER, CAROLYN
X
X
O/E
X
O
O/E
O
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
FREERKS, ANN
X
X
X
-- --
HENSCH, MIKE
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
MARTIN, PHOEBE
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
PARSONS, MAX
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
SIGNS, MARK
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
THEOBALD, JODIE
X
X
O/E
-- --
TOWNSEND, BILLIE
-- --
-- --
-- --
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
KEY:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
- = Not a Member
i
CITY OE IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org
May 7, 2019
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Senior Center Commission: February 21
Item Number: 5.e.
Approved Minutes
February 21, 2019
MINUTES
SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION
FEBRUARY 21, 2019
ROOM 205, IOWA CITY/JOHNSON COUNTY SENIOR CENTER
Members Present: Lorraine Dorfman, Zach Goldsmith, Kenn Bowan, Cheryll Clamon, Hiram
Webber
Members Absent: Scott Finlayson
Staff Present: Michelle Buhman, LaTasha DeLoach
Others Present: Angela McConville, Jori Romano
Call to Order:
The meeting was called to order at 4:18
Recommendations to council:
Approval of minutes from the January 24, 2019 meeting with amendments. Motion carried on a
vote of 4-0. Clamon/Dorfman
Public Discussion
None
Commission Assignments
Bowen will attend the next Board of Supervisors meeting.
Operational Overview
Senior Center Update Policies
Motion: To approve Administrative Record Retention Policy. Motion carried on a vote of 4-0.
Goldsmith/Dorfman
Motion: To table the art exhibit policy. Motion carried on a vote of 4-0. Clamon/Goldsmith
Motion: To approve Evaluation of Programs and Services and In -House Agency Services policy.
Motion carried on a vote of 4-0. Clamon/Dorfman
Discussion: Goldsmith questioned evaluation of every five years. De Loach commented the five years
evaluation has been previously established based on the National Accreditation process.
Webber arrived at the meeting at 4:44 PM
Motion: To approve the Marketing policy. Motion carried on a vote of 5-0. Goldsmith/Dorfman
Motion: To approve Operational Databases policy. Motion carried on a vote of 5-0. Weber/Goldsmith
Approved Minutes
February 21, 2019
Motion: To approve Senior Center Quilters policy. Motion carried on a vote of 5-0. Dorfman/Clamon
Motion: To approve Winter Weather closing policy. Motion carried on a vote of 5-0. Dorfman/Clamon
Motion: To approve Works -Study Employees policy. Motion carried on a vote of 5-0.
Goldsmith/Weber
Pantry Update
De Loach announced that the pantry is up and running. A new logo has been created and a student
intern is working on developing a toolkit to manage the pantry. A plan is being developed to secure
food during the slower donation seasons. The pantry has been a valuable service for those who rely on
the congregate meal program which has cancelled several times in the past few weeks due to severe
weather. A student intern is keeping a record of how much food is donated. A grand opening is the
works for around the second week of March. DeLoach encouraged commissioners to attend the grand
opening. Recycling bags for to use take products home will be made available in time for the grand
opening. In addition, a new condom dispenser has been installed in the location near the pantry.
Potential Open House/Programming
De Loach reported that staff is working on a possible Open House during the month of May. DeLoach
will update the commission as program details are confirmed. Bowen commented that the center needs
to develop a stronger marketing program. De Loach agreed and highlighted the efforts of the new staff
has been stepping up the social media and signage around the building.
Staff Training Information
De Loach updated the commission how the staff is being trained in different areas:
• Jessi Simon, Development Specialist, recently completed the Grant Writing workshop.
• Michelle Buhman, Program Specialist, will be attending the American Society on Aging
conference in April.
• Emily Edrington, Community Outreach Specialist, will be attending the Global
International Conference in June. The focus of this conference is to help identify ways to
increase was to create intergenerational programs.
Commission Discussion
De Loach announced the commission will vote to appointment the non -Iowa City Commission seat at
the March meeting.
Dorfman noted that the term of her appointment is incorrect in the minutes and needs to be corrected.
Meeting Reports
Approved Minutes
February 21, 2019
None.
Program Committee Report
Bowen and Dorfman reported that the program committee is working on the summer session. A guest
was present looking for feedback on a potential program.
Parking
Clamon commented that parking continues to be a problem for people who want to attend senior
center program because the Tower Ramp is regularly full. Senior Center members who hold a parking
permit are allowed access into the ramp in the permit only lane. Clamon noted that signage for the
permit only lane and the full sign in the parking ramp is not visible from the street and tends to cause
additional problems. She also commented that ice has been a problem in the ramp, particularly on the
top floor. The icy conditions present a danger for seniors.
De Loach reported that she spoke to the director of the Parking department regarding signage. Clamon
reported people have expressed to her that they are unhappy with parking and have vowed not to
return to the Center or downtown Iowa City because of the parking.
Motion: To approve the Parking policy. Motion carried on a vote of 5-0. Clamon/Webber
Future agenda items
Parking.
Motion: to adjourn. Motion carried on a vote of 5-0. Clamon/Webber
Approved Minutes
February 21, 2019
Senior Center Commission
Attendance Record
Name
Term Expires
3/15/18
4/19/18
5/17/18
6/21/18
7/19/18
8/16/18
9/20/18
10/18/18
11/15/18
12/13/18
1/24/19
2/21/19
Kenn Bowen
12/31/19
N/M
X
X
X
X
X
NM
X
X
NM
X
X
Cheryll Clamon
12/31/20
N/M
X
X
0/E
X
X
NM
X
X
NM
X
X
Lorraine Dorfman
12/31/21
N/M
X
X
X
X
O/E
NM
X
X
NM
X
X
Robert (Scott)
Finlayson
12/31/20
X
X
0/E
X
X
NM
X
O/E
NM
X
O/E
Zach Goldsmith
12/31/21
X
X
NM
X
X
Kathy Mitchell
12/31/19
N/M
X
X
X
Margaret Reese
12/31/18
N/M
X
X
X
X
X
NM
X
X
NM
Hiram (Rick) Webber
12/31/19
N/M
X
X
X
X
X
NM
X
X
NM
X
X
Key: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM= No meeting
-- = Not a member