HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - CCC Minutes 04/27/20Minutes
CAMPUS AND COMMUNITY COMMISSION
Meeting was held via Zoom due to the COVID-19 Pandemic
Ames City Hall, 515 Clark Avenue
Ames, IA 50010
Monday, April 27, 2020
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 6:03pm by Chair Sandeep Stanley.
Members Present: Karin Chitty, Evelyn Beavers, Pete Englin, Warren Madden, and Tom
Lindsley
Member(s) Absent: Eric Abrams and Marth Broadnax
Staff Liaison: Deb Schildroth
Approval of Minutes: Warren moved approval of the February 24, 2020 minutes and
Tom seconded. Motion carried unanimously.
Public Forum: There was no one present for Public Forum.
Review Tenant/Landlord Issues Report: Sandeep led the discussion on the draft
report and reviewed the recommendations as follows:
• implement a mediation process that offers an informal resolution for
small- scale grievances
• boost awareness of the rental process and understanding the terms and
conditions of lease agreements through education and information
o informational packets accompanying leases
o annual seminar by Student Legal Services
o revamping and promotion of the RentSmart Ames website
Warren shared suggested language that acknowledges several changes impacting
landlord/tenant issues such as the decline in ISU enrollment, the development of
additional rental housing, and the impact of COVID-19. It was also noted that the
recommendations still have value in light of financial and community challenges though
it may be necessary to wait and see if any further action may be needed.
Warren moved preliminary approval of the draft report including changes and
recommendations and Tom seconded. Motion carried unanimously. Sandeep will
make changes to the report and send it out to Commission members the week of May
11th with a plan to present the report to City Council on May 26th.
Commissioner Comments: The question was raised about what the Commission may
investigate given the present COVID-19 pandemic. Karin commented on the re-
opening of Campustown. There may be some time of event hosted next fall. Street
improvements will be starting on Welch Ave the first week in May.
Pete shared that the residence hall move-out date has been extended to June 7th to
allow students time to make alternative living arrangements if unable to return home.
ISU refunded $17 million in housing and dining funds. Summer sessions and
orientation will all be done online. A Fall Planning Committee has been created to
discuss bringing students back to campus. The health and safety of students, faculty,
and staff is in the forefront of decision-making.
Next Meeting: It was noted that next month’s meeting will fall on the Memorial Day
holiday, May 23rd.
Adjournment: Evelyn moved adjournment. Meeting adjourned at 6:46pm.