HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - February 22, 2022, Regular Meeting of the Ames City CouncilAGENDA
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CONFERENCE BOARD
AND REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
COUNCIL CHAMBERS - CITY HALL
FEBRUARY 22, 2022
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC: The Mayor and City Council welcome comments from the public
during discussion. If you wish to speak, please complete an orange card and hand it to the City Clerk.
When your name is called, please step to the microphone, state your name for the record, and limit the
time used to present your remarks in order that others may be given the opportunity to speak. The normal
process on any particular agenda item is that the motion is placed on the floor, input is received from
the audience, the Council is given an opportunity to comment on the issue or respond to the audience
concerns, and the vote is taken. On ordinances, there is time provided for public input at the time of
the first reading.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CONFERENCE BOARD
CALL TO ORDER: 6:00 p.m.
1. Roll Call
2. Motion approving Minutes of January 25, 2022
3. Public hearing on proposed 2022/23 budget for City Assessor’s Office:
a. Motion adopting budget
CONFERENCE BOARD COMMENTS:
ADJOURNMENT:
REGULAR MEETING OF AMES CITY COUNCIL*
*The Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council will immediately follow the Regular Meeting of the
Ames Conference Board.
CONSENT AGENDA: All items listed under the Consent Agenda will be enacted by one motion.
There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a request is made prior to the time the
Council members vote on the motion.
1. Motion approving payment of claims
2. Motion approving Minutes of Special City Council Meeting held January 28, 2022 and February
1, 2, and 3, 2022, and Regular City Council Meeting held February 8, 2022
3.Motion approving Report of Change Orders for period February 1 - 15, 2022
4. Motion approving ownership update for Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit,
Class C Beer Permit (Carryout beer) and Sunday Sales - Kum & Go #1113, 2801 E 13th Street
5. Motion approving ownership update for Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit,
Class C Beer Permit (Carryout beer) and Sunday Sales - Kum & Go #227, 2108 Isaac Newton
Drive
6. Motion approving ownership update for Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit,
Class C Beer Permit (Carryout beer) and Sunday Sales - Sam’s Club #6568, 305 Airport Road
7. Motion approving ownership update for Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit,
Class C Beer Permit (Carryout beer) & Sunday Sales - Casey’s General Store #2905, 3612
Stange Road
8. Motion approving renewal of the following Beer Permits, Wine Permits and Liquor Licenses:
a. Class C Liquor with Outdoor Service & Sunday Sales - BN’C Fieldhouse, 206 Welch Ave
b. Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service & Sunday Sales - Coldwater Golf Links,
1400 S Grand Avenue
c. Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit, Class C Beer Permit (Carryout Beer)
& Sunday Sales - Kum & Go #1113, 2801 E 13th Street
d. Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit, Class C Beer Permit (Carryout Beer)
& Sunday Sales - Kum & Go #227, 2108 Isaac Newton Drive
e. Class A Liquor License with Outdoor Service & Sunday Sales - Elks Lodge, 522 Douglas
Pending Dram Shop Insurance
f. Special Class C Liquor License - Homewood Golf Course, 401 E 20th Street
g. Special Class C Liquor License - The Spice Thai Cuisine, 402 Main Street
h. Class C Beer Permit with Class B Native Wine Permit & Sunday Sales - Swift Stop #4,
1118 S Duff
i. Class C Beer Permit with Class B Wine Permit & Sunday Sales - Swift Stop #5, 3208
Orion St
j. Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit, Class C Beer Permit (Carryout Beer)
& Sunday Sales - Casey’s General Store #2905, 3612 Stange Road
k. Class B Beer with Sunday Sales - Pizza Pit Extreme, 207 Welch Avenue
l. Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit, Class C Beer Permit (Carryout Beer)
& Sunday Sales - Sam’s Club #6568, 305 Airport Road
9. Resolution confirming appointment of Kit Clayburn to serve as a Iowa State University Student
Government representative to Ames Transit Agency Board of Trustees
10. Requests from Campustown Student Apartments for Spring Carnival on April 15, 2022:
a. Motion approving blanket Vending License
b. Resolution approving closure of Chamberlain Street from Welch Avenue to Stanton
Avenue from 2:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
c. Resolution approving suspension of 19 on-street metered parking spaces and 11 parking
spaces in Campustown Lot Y from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
11. Resolution setting March 8, 2022, as date for public hearings and additional action on proposals
to enter into General Obligation Loan Agreements and to borrow money thereunder
12. Resolution acknowledging that Lease Agreement between City of Ames and Board of Regents
acting on behalf of Iowa State University regarding Healthy Life Center never went into effect
13. Resolution approving Resource Recovery System Annual Report for 2021
14. Resolution approving the Police Department’s application for and participation in the
Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau Enforcement Grant program
15. Resolution approving Addendum to Iowa DOT Funding Agreement for 2018/19 Shared Use
Path System Expansion (Trail Connection South of Lincoln Way)
16. Resolution approving preliminary plans and specifications for Ada Hayden Heritage Park
Dredging of Wetland G (Cell 1); setting March 23, 2022, as bid due date and April 12, 2022, as
date of public hearing
17. Resolution approving preliminary plans and specifications for 2021/22 Arterial Street Pavement
Improvements (North Dakota Avenue and Ontario Street); setting March 15, 2022, as bid due
date and March 22, 2022, as date of public hearing
18. Resolution approving preliminary plans and specifications for 2021/22 Collector Street
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Pavement Improvements (Hoover Avenue); setting March 16, 2022, as bid due date and March
22, 2022, as date of public hearing
19. Resolution awarding contract to Stew Hansen Dodge RAM of Des Moines, Iowa, for purchase
of one Ram 4500 crew cab chassis with safety strobe lighting for Electric Services in the amount
of $55,575
20. Resolution awarding contract to Stew Hansen Dodge RAM of Des Moines, Iowa, for purchase
of one Ram 5500 truck chassis with safety strobe lighting for Public Works Operations in the
amount of $68,695
21. Resolution awarding contract to WESCO Distribution of Des Moines, Iowa, for the purchase of
cable and wire for the Electric Department in the amount of $116,180.60 (inclusive of Iowa sales
tax)
22. Resolution awarding contract to Crest Precast Inc., of La Crescent, Minnesota, in the amount of
$91,121.20 (inclusive of sales tax) to furnish six concrete vaults for Electric Services
Department
23. Cooling Tower Blowdown Sanitary Sewer Modification:
a. Resolution waiving Purchasing Policy requirement for competitive proposals
b. Resolution approving Change Order No. 2 to WHKS & Co., Ames, Iowa, for design and
construction services in the amount of $55,500
24. Resolution accepting completion of Fire Station No. 1 HVAC Replacement Project
25. Resolution accepting completion of 2020/21 Concrete Pavement Improvements (8th Street)
26. Resolution approving amended Final Plat for Auburn Trail Subdivision, 1st Addition
PUBLIC FORUM: This is a time set aside for comments from the public on topics of City business
other than those listed on this agenda. Please understand that the Council will not take any action on
your comments at this meeting due to requirements of the Open Meetings Law, but may do so at a
future meeting. The Mayor and City Council welcome comments from the public; however, at no
time is it appropriate to use profane, obscene, or slanderous language. The Mayor may limit each
speaker to three minutes.
ADMINISTRATION:
27. Requests from Ames Chamber of Commerce for Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market on
Saturdays from May 7 to October 15, 2022:
a. Motion approving blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit and blanket Vending License
for Central Business District from 5:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
b. Resolution approving closure of 300 and 400 blocks of Main Street, Burnett Avenue from
Main Street to the U.S. Bank drive-through, and Tom Evans Plaza from 5:30 a.m. to 1:30
p.m.
c. Resolution approving suspension of parking enforcement in CBD Lots X and Y from 6:30
a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
d. Resolution approving usage and waiver of electrical fees and waiver of fee for blanket
Vending License for event from 5:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
e. Resolution approving/motion denying request to waive parking meter fees
ELECTRIC:
28. 161kV Electric Line Relocation Project:
a. Resolution waiving City’s Purchasing Policy requirement for competitive proposals and
awarding a contract to Dewild Grant Reckert & Associates Company, Rock Rapids, Iowa,
on a time-and-materials basis for an estimated total cost of $291,000 for professional
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services and right-of-way acquisition service, which amount is inclusive of prior Change
Orders to existing Purchase Order for preliminary engineering services performed
b. Resolution approving funding for payment of temporary and permanent easements needed
for the relocation in the amount of $92,400
c. Resolution approving Reimbursement Agreement from the Iowa Department of
Transportation for the Engineering and Right-of-Way Costs associated with the relocation
of the Electric Transmission Line
PARKS & RECREATION:
29. Resolution approving preliminary plans and specifications for Downtown Plaza; setting March
23, 2022, as bid due date and April 12, 2022, as date of public hearing
PLANNING & HOUSING:
30. Iowa Reinvestment District Program:
a. Resolution authorizing staff to submit the final Application to Iowa Economic Development
Authority for the Reinvestment District
HEARINGS:
31. Hearing on Maximum Levy:
a. Resolution approving maximum levy amount of $22,965,898 for Fiscal Year 2022/23
b. Resolution setting March 8, 2022, as date of final public hearing on Adjusted Budget for FY
2021/22
c. Resolution setting March 8, 2022, as date of final public hearing and adoption of budget for
FY 2022/23
32. Hearing on rezoning of 525 SE 16th Street from Agricultural “A” to Highway Oriented
Commercial “HOC” and retain the Environmentally Sensitive Area Overlay “O-E” for the
floodway:
a. First passage or ordinance
33. Hearing on voluntary annexation of 72.99 acres located at 2105 and 2124 Dayton:
a. Resolution approving Pre-Annexation Agreement to delegate to the developer
responsibility of ensuring access to, protection of, and to maintain the integrity of the
Franklin Township Cemetery
b. Resolution approving annexation
34. Hearing on voluntary annexation of property located on the southwest corner of intersection of
George Washington Carver and Cameron School Road:
a. Resolution approving Pre-Annexation Agreement
b. Resolution approving Annexation
35. Hearings on rezoning of and Major Site Development Plan for 2098 W. 190th Street (Hayden’s
Ridge):
a. First passage of ordinance rezoning 2098 W. 190th Street from Floating Suburban
Residential Medium Density (FS-RM) to Floating Suburban Residential Medium Density
Planned Unit Development (FS-RM PUD) Overlay:
b. Resolution approving Major Site Development Plan:
c. Resolution approving Preliminary Plat
d. Motion directing staff to initiate a Zoning Text Amendment to clarify applicability of
compatibility standards related to single-family attached housing units and alley access
36. Hearing on proposed Zoning Text Amendment to allow temporary yard waste processing
facilities through approval of a Special Use Permit by the Zoning Board of Adjustment:
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a. First passage of ordinance
37. Hearing on South 16th Street Improvements:
a. Motion accepting report of bids and delaying award
38. Hearing on 2021/22 Downtown Street Pavements Improvements - Alley (Duff Avenue to
Sherman Avenue):
a. Resolution approving final plans and specifications and awarding contract to Con-Struct,
Inc., of Ames, Iowa, in the amount of $127,952
39. Hearing on 2021/22 Concrete Pavement Improvements (S. Kellogg to N. 2nd Street):
a. Resolution approving final plans and specifications and awarding contract to All Star
Concrete, of Johnston, Iowa, in the amount of $967,416.31
ORDINANCES:
40. Third passage and adoption of ORDINANCE NO. 4458 on proposed Text Amendment to
modify the Planned Unit Development Overlay District standards to allow for a small
commercial component to districts
DISPOSITION OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL:
COUNCIL COMMENTS:
CLOSED SESSIONS:
41. Motion to hold Closed Session as provided by Section 20.17(3), Code of Iowa, to discuss
collective bargaining strategy:
a. Resolution approving Collective Bargaining Agreement with International Union of
Operating Engineers Local 234 (Blue Collar Unit)
b. Resolution approving Collective Bargaining Agreement with International Union of
Operating Engineers Local 234 (Power Plant Unit)
42. Motion to hold Closed Session as provided by Section 21.5(1)c, Code of Iowa, to discuss matters
presently in or threatened to be in litigation:
ADJOURNMENT:
Please note that this agenda may be changed up to 24 hours before the meeting time as
provided by Section 21.4(2), Code of Iowa.
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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE
AMES CONFERENCE BOARD AND
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA JANUARY 25, 2022
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CONFERENCE BOARD
The Regular Meeting of the Ames Conference Board was called to order by Chairman John Haila
at 6:00 p.m. on January 25, 2022. Present from the Ames City Council were Bronwyn
Beatty-Hansen, Gloria Betcher, Amber Corrieri, Tim Gartin, Rachel Junck, and Anita Rollins. Lisa
Heddens, and Latifah Faisal represented the Story County Board of Supervisors. Other members in
attendance were: Kelly Winfrey, Ames Community School Board of Directors, Allen Bierbaum,
Ames Community School Board of Directors; and Joe Anderson, Nevada School Board of Directors.
Gilbert School Board of Directors and United Community School Board of Directors were not
represented.
MINUTES OF DECEMBER 14, 2021: Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Heddens, to approve the
Minutes of the December 14, 2021, meeting of the Ames Conference Board.
Vote on Motion: 3-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
APPOINTMENT OF NANCY HALVORSON TO BOARD OF REVIEW: Moved by Anderson,
seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-015 approving the appointment of Nancy
Halvorson to the Board of Review.
Roll Call Vote: 3-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Chair, and hereby made
a portion of these Minutes.
DISCUSSION OF CITY ASSESSOR’S BUDGET PROPOSALS: Assistant City Manager Deb
Schildroth directed the Board’s attention to the Tables on Page 3 of the Report. Finance Director
Duane Pitcher explained that the value shown is as of January 1, 2021, and this amount is used to
set the tax rate for the upcoming budget in FY 2022/23. He noted that on the “Assess Values by
Class” table, each class except for the Railroads & Utilities less Gas & Electric, are all set by the
Assessor. Each class of property had increased, with commercial having the highest increase of
12.5%. He pointed out that most classes showed an increase, but the multi-residential decreased. He
explained that the multi-residential was a class that was created about seven years ago with a stair-
step reduction in value each year, and this will be the last year. Director Pitcher commented that he
is not sure how the Assessor will handle the multi-residential class next year, but that class will go
away and move up with residential. There may be a big bump in residential next year, but this will
be due to the change in class. As far as revaluation, there was a modest revaluation in commercial
and residential properties. Commercial revaluation was up about 6%, residential was 3.4%, and
multi-residential was 5.2%, and all of those are subject to rollbacks.
Ms. Schildroth explained that she will be reviewing the proposed budget for FY 2022/23. The
information started on Page 12 of the Annual Report. She mentioned that the Mini Conference Board
met on January 6, 2022, to review the Assessor’s budget proposal. Ms. Schildroth stated that the
expense item for the Assessor remained unchanged from the last budget, but all other staff were
budgeted with a 3% cost of living increase and a 2% merit pool, for a total of 5%. She highlighted
that there was a 13% reduction in staff salary, due to the Administrative Assistant position being
vacant since 2020. The Staff Report provided by the Iowa Department of Revenue recommended not
including the Administrative Assistant position any longer and so that position was not included in
the budget. The hourly rate for the Board of Review wages was doubled in 2022, to $35, in the hopes
of attracting and maintaining qualified members. Ms. Schildroth stated that the City had informed
the Assessor’s office to expect a 7% overall increase in health insurance for the upcoming fiscal year.
The total proposed budget for FY 2022/23 is $985,025, which is a 3.6% reduction from the FY
2021/22 budget.
Council Member Betcher pointed out that when the last City Assessor was hired the City had
negotiated a salary based on moving to Ames and other factors. Ms. Schildroth mentioned that there
were some negotiations and consideration was also given to the salary based on the Annual Salary
Survey of Assessors. Ms. Betcher inquired if it was a possibility that the budgeted amount may not
be the actual amount paid to the new Assessor. It was confirmed that it was correct.
Mayor Haila stated that salaries for the City Assessor’s office staff are now being paid by the City
and the City is re-calibrating the job descriptions to be paid at the City level. The hope is that the
new Assessor can find and hire a Deputy Assessor and set realistic salary ranges. Currently, the
proposed budget is the maximum, but does not have to be used. He said they need to set up a good
management position, and they are starting to trim the budget to give exceptional value to the
taxpayers while being fiscally responsible.
Supervisor Heddens wanted to know how the general compensation range would work for the new
Assessor. She wondered if it would be at the higher range or at the midpoint range. Ms. Schildroth
stated that all the positions in the Assessor’s office were put into the City’s classifications and
compensation schedule. The City Assessor’s salary is in the same range as Department Heads, and
the Deputy Assessor salary is the same range as Assistant Directors. She noted that when taking
those ranges and looking at the latest salary survey, it indicated that the $140,000 does fit into the
same range as other City Assessors.
Supervisor Faisal asked what salary range the current City Assessor job posting was set at. Ms.
Schildroth stated that the range ended at $162,000. The Mayor explained that if a new Assessor was
hired at $162,000, they would already be maxed out on the amount they could make. Supervisor
Heddens stated that the City advertised with the salary range up to $162,000, but if any potential City
Assessor looks at the proposed budget, they will see the $140,000, and she is concerned about the
difference in salary being shown. Ms. Schildroth commented that typically when the City budgets
for salaries it is budgeted at mid-point, hoping they are going to get someone with experience and
then there will be room for negotiations. Ms. Faisal inquired what the salary range would be. The
Mayor noted they would like to start at $140,000 and negotiate from there.
Ms. Schildroth went over “Other” office expenses and highlighted a few items. She explained that
for: “Employee Mileage & Expenses,” there was a reduction because the City Assessor, Deputy
Assessor, and the two residential appraisers receive a mileage stipend. This amount is provided every
month for the expense of using their personal vehicles for City business and the employee mileage
was moved into the Taxable Fringe Benefits category. What is paid out for mileage in the “Employee
Mileage & Expenses” category is any mileage that is incurred when any staff member is attending
any training or education event. She explained that the “Data Processing Services/Major Software”
had a 4% increase. She explained that the Harris Computer Systems (ProVal) is the current software
that the Assessor’s office is using for its property information. That software will be phased-out and
switched over to the new Vanguard software. She noted ProVal was budgeted for FY 2022/23
because the conversion will take some time. The “Utilities” had a 16.8% increase; this number is
provided by the City. The “Equipment & Machinery (Purchases)” is for the replacement of
computers and other equipment that needs to be phased out. The last line item “Management
Services/Contingency” was increased by 1302.9%, for services that were included in the
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that was approved by the Conference Board last March that
directed the transition of the City Assessor office payroll from Story County to the City of Ames
effective January 1, 2022. The breakdown is $9,762 for Human Resources and $3,267 for Finance,
which will cover payroll, and recruitments. These services were provided before, but now with the
payroll being handled by the City, those services can now be paid for, and will be an ongoing
expense. The charges are based on the number of employees per office. Ms. Schildroth stated that
the total payroll and related expenses for FY 2022/23 is $300,756, which is an 8% increase. The total
payroll and office expenses for FY 2022/23 is $1,285,781, which is a 1.1% reduction from the
previous fiscal year.
Assistant City Manager Schildroth reviewed the “District Court Case Concerning Northcrest
Exemption (Assessment Appeals/Court Courts), and because it was a non-evaluation year, the line
item dropped to $15,000, which is a 40% decrease. The last line item is the “CAMA Conversion
Project.” On June 16, 2021, the City Assessor’s Office entered into a five-year contract with
Vanguard to purchase software, implementation, training, and consultation services in the amount
of $165,732.50. The City Assessor’s Office was notified by Vanguard in September 2021 that the
amount was on the low side and was advised to budget an additional $40,000 into the FY 2022/23
budget to cover additional costs. There is also a one-time set-up fee in the amount of $3,200 for the
Beacon database connection to the Vanguard system. The overall total expenses for FY 2022/23 will
be $1,343,981; this is an overall 1.4% increase.
The Mayor asked for more information about the contract with Vanguard. Ms. Schildroth
commented that the software was purchased in June 2021 in the amount of $165,732.50, plus the
additional $40,000 will cover the Contract through 2026. She noted that they may need to budget
more money for the FY 2025/26 budget for continuing maintenance of the software. She is not sure
if it will be an annual or multi-year contract. She mentioned that so far, the software is robust and
will hopefully offer a lot of efficiencies for the office.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Bierbaum, to approve the recommendations of the City
Assessor’s Report.
Vote on Motion: 3-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Heddens, seconded by Junck, to receive the proposed budget.
Vote on Motion: 3-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Faisal, to set 6:00 p.m. on February 22, 2022, as the date of public
hearing on the proposed FY 2022/23 City Assessor’s budget (adoption of budget will occur after
hearing is held).
Vote on Motion: 3-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Ms. Schildroth introduced Lisa Henschel, Database Manager from the City Assessor office. Ms.
Henschel has taken the lead on the Vanguard conversion project. Ms. Henschel explained that the
representatives from Vanguard provided training. Each employee was set up with a log-in for the
testing portion of the software. She noted that for a conversion from a different software package the
conversion was remarkably clean. Ms. Henschel noted that there were a few issues and were
“crippled” by the lack of staff time and commercial appraisal experience. Staff is hoping to begin
the second round of testing within the next month or so. Ms. Schildroth mentioned that the City has
an Agreement with Mel Obbink who has been providing the commercial appraisal expertise. Mr.
Obbink is familiar with Vanguard. Vanguard is used by Assessors throughout the state. The
conversion will take three education rounds.
CONFERENCE BOARD COMMENTS: Council Member Betcher thanked Assistant City
Manager Deb Schildroth, City Clerk Diane Voss, and staff for helping out in the Assessor’s Office
in the interim and helping with the transition.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Bierbaum, seconded by Betcher, to adjourn the Ames Conference
Board at 6:30 p.m.
Vote on Motion: 3-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
______________________________________________________________________
Amy L. Colwell, Deputy City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
__________________________________
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk
MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING
OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA JANUARY 28, 2022
Mayor John Haila called the Special Meeting of the Ames City Council to order at 2:00 p.m.
with the following Council members participating: Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen, Gloria Betcher,
Amber Corrieri, Tim Gartin, and Anita Rollins. City Council Member Rachel Junck and ex
officio Member Trevor Poundstone were absent.
FY 2022/23 BUDGET OVERVIEW: City Manager Steve Schainker stated that his
recommended budget for FY 2022/23 totals $280,300,058. The budget reflects: (1) the service
plan presented in a program format, rather than by Department, (2) the financing strategy to
accomplish those services, and (3) the performance measures that allow bench-marking
productivity against the prior year results as well as against other cities’ efforts.
Mr. Schainker presented the major highlights of the proposed service plan for FY 2022/23.
The FY 2022/23 budget requires an additional $1,184,190, which is an increase of 3.65%, in
property tax revenue as compared to the previous year’s adopted level to finance those programs
funded by that funding source. The additional tax revenue can be generated with an overall tax
reduction of 4.4 cents from a $9.87/$1,000 to $9.83/$1,000 of taxable value. While it is not
possible to project the additional cost for each property owner, when analyzing each tax
classification, on average, in FY 2022/23, residential property tax bills will decrease 1.22% or
$6.81 less per $100,000 of assessed valuation. Commercial property tax bills will increase by
5.81% or $51.63 more per $100,000 of assessed value. Industrial property tax bills will increase
3.09% or $27.47 more per $100,000 of assessed valuation as compared to the previous year.
Challenges that impacted the development of the 2022/23 budget were noted as:
1. The promised financial backfill from the State Legislature to compensate cities for rolling
back the taxable values on commercial and industrial properties is being eliminated over the
next five years resulting in a $168,322 loss in State Replacement Tax revenue in FY 2022/23
alone. Approximately $99,000 of this total will be lost to the General Fund.
2. The State mandated rollback on residential properties was reduced from $56.41% to 54.13%,
resulting in $83,902,749 less assessed valuation being subject to taxation, which impacts all
four levies that comprise the City’s overall tax rate.
3. Along with the traditional annual amount of General Obligation Bond issuance for street,
traffic, storm water, public safety, and park improvements; the FY 2022/23 budget reflects
for the first time the issuance of $6,192,512 in General Obligation bonds for the new Indoor
Aquatics Center, with an additional $13,971,664 of bonds planned for sale in FY 2023/24.
As a result, over half of the $1,184,190 in additional property tax funding being requested for
FY 2022/23 is earmarked to cover the Debt Service Levy increase.
Mr. Schainker shared good news that will positively impact the budget and help generate the
additional revenue needed to fund the budget. He advised that the City has been informed that
the City’s obligation for the State-administered Police and Fire Retirement System will be
approximately $169,000 less in FY 2022/23 than the prior year.
Also, throughout the pandemic, Ames residents appear to have continued to shop in person and
through the internet resulting in a projected increase of approximately $2,300,000 more in Local
Option Sales Tax revenue than budgeted in FY 2021/22. An additional $892,036 is projected for
FY 2022/23 as compared to the FY 2021/22 adopted budget. It was noted that for both fiscal
years, 60% of those totals will be used to reduce property taxes.
In addition to the unexpected increase in Local Option Sales Tax revenues, an unusually high
number of vacant positions were experienced in the General Fund supported departments, which
resulted in substantial savings. Some of the vacancies were the result of retirements, some were
influenced by police officers deciding to leave the professional, and others were caused by the
City’s conservative approach not to fill the vacancies immediately in the face of the uncertainty
as to whether or not the negative effects of the pandemic on revenues would cause a need to cut
expenditures later in the fiscal year. Those vacancies have resulted in approximately $800,000 in
savings in personnel costs in both FY 2021/21 and FY 2021/22.
According to City Manager Schainker, one-time net savings in the General Fund are projected to
be $3,504,556 from FY 2020/21 and FY 2021/22. He strongly advised the City Council to use
those one-time savings for one-time expenditures. To apply those savings to reduce ongoing
operational expenditures will create a large increase in property taxes the following year when
the balance has been depleted. The list of uses developed by Mr. Schainker (that have been
incorporated into the budget) for one-time expenditures totaling $877,624 include Fire Safety,
Parks and Recreation, the Library, the Cemetery, Information Technology, and Facilities. It was
explained by the City Manager that since those expenditures would likely show up in future
budget requests, using a portion of the savings for these purposes will help reduce future costs.
Mr. Schainker directed that additional one-time savings be earmarked as follows: $200,000 for
an initial pool for sustainability projects, $500,000 to restore the Parking Reserve Fund balance,
$900,000 for the Debt Service Fund balance to mitigate the tax impact on the issuance of
$21,000,000 for the Indoor Aquatics Center, and $1,000.000 to the City Council’s Priority Fund
for yet-to-be-determined capital projects.
Mr. Schainker advised that the General Fund ending balance in FY 2022/23 is projected to be
$10,282,146, which meets City Council’s goal of a 25% unobligated reserve and leaves an
additional $991,061 to further respond to unplanned events.
Finance Director Duane Pitcher brought the Council’s attention to the Special Reports for FY
2022/23 Budget. He pointed out that today’s presentation will only cover Ames portion of
property taxes. The portion of the property tax levy going to the City of Ames (31.66%) is
approximately one-third of the property owner’s total tax bill. Ames School District receives
46.00%; Story County, 20.17%, and DMACC, 2.17%.
Mr. Pitcher provided the following highlights for the overall budget:
1. Property tax rate is down $0.04 from FY 2021/22
2. Taxable and assessed value is up for all major property classes
3. Decreases in the replacement tax from the State of Iowa and increase in debt service levy
were mitigated by Local Option tax increases and modest changes in operating costs
4. Balanced General Fund budget for operations and capital
5. Utility rate increases for wastewater, storm water, and the resource recovery tipping fee
The tax levy breakdown was explained. The total tax levy per $1,000 taxable valuation will
equate to $9.83 for FY 2022/23, down from $9.87 in 2021/22. The total change in Taxable Value
for all property types from 2021/22 to 2022/23 increased by 4.39%. An analysis of changes in
taxable value was given. The Total Change in Net Taxable Value for all four property types was
$142,836,149; after changes due in part to State Rollback, the net change on existing property
equates to $45,147,869.
The Debt Service Allocation was itemized by the user of the bond proceeds, showing specifically
the General Obligation Bond issues included in the 2022/23. For FY 2022/23, the Debt Service
Levy will increase to $3.07409 from 2.99735/$1,000 valuation. Mr. Pitcher shared that, by the
end of 2032, the entire Library debt will fall off.
Finance Director Pitcher explained the Police and Fire Fund and noted the changes that will
occur to that Fund in 2022/23.
Director Pitcher reviewed the cost of City services for 2022/23 per residence from property taxes
(based on a $100,000 home), as follows:
Streets/Traffic $ 145
Police Protection 126
Fire Protection 80
Library (includes Debt Service for renovated library) 64
Recreation and Parks 31
General Support Services 28
Transit 32
Planning Services 9
Resource Recovery 6
Animal Control 5
Facilities/Cemetery 3
Storm Water Management 2
Building Safety 1
TOTAL $ 532/$100,000
Projected Utility Rate Summary. Mr. Pitcher reviewed the projected utility rates, as follows:
Electric Utility: No rate increase.
Water Utility: No rate increase. Assuming five-year projections remain true, water rate
increases in FY 2023/24 and FY 2025/26 will be needed.
Sanitary Sewer Utility: 5% in 2022/23. Additional rate increases in FY 2024/25 and FY
2026/27 will be needed.
Stormwater Utility: $0.25 increase in monthly Equivalent Residential unit increase from
$4.95 to $5.20 to help cover the costs to maintain the existing stormwater system as well
as the Capital Improvement Projects to replace deteriorating infrastructure over the next five
years.
Resource Recovery: No increase in the per-capita subsidy; $3.75 increase for the per-ton
tipping fee from $58.75 to $62.50 per ton.
Mr. Pitcher reviewed the Utility Bill Rate samples for median use residential and commercial
customers. The increase due to the rate change is estimated to be $1.38%. For median use
commercial customers, the increase is estimated to be 0.34%.
Information on the proposed fee increases for Parks and Recreation facilities and programs,
Planning and Housing, and Rental and Building Inspections, and the Projected Revenue and
Expenses for the Ames Intermodal Facility was included in the Special Reports.
Placed around the dais was information pertaining to FY 2022/23 ASSET Allocations and
COTA funding recommendations.
Fund Summaries. Budget Analyst Nancy Masteller stated that the Fund Summaries include the
Fund Sheets for the following: General Fund; Special Revenue Funds, including Local Option
Sales Tax, Hotel/Motel Tax, Road Use Tax, Public Safety Special Revenues, City-Wide Housing
Programs, Community Development Block Grant, Home Investment Partnership Program,
CDBG/COVID-19 CARES Act, IEDA/COVID-19 CARES Act, HOME/American Rescue Plan;
Employee Benefit Property Tax, Fire/Police Pension, Parks and Recreation Donations and
Grants, FEMA/COVID-19, FEMA/Derecho 2020, American Rescue Plan, Library Donations
and Grants, Utility Assistance, Miscellaneous Donations, Developer Projects, Economic
Development, and Tax Increment Financing.
Ms. Masteller briefly reviewed Capital Project Funds, as follows: Special Assessments, Street
Construction, Airport Construction, Park Development, the Winakor Donation, Indoor Aquatic
Center Donations (new), Council Priorities Capital Fund, and Bond Proceeds.
Two permanent funds were reviewed: Cemetery Perpetual Care and the Donald and Ruth
Furman Aquatic Center Trust.
Ms. Masteller also explained the Enterprise Funds for the Water Utility, Water Construction,
Water Sinking, Sewer Utility, Sewer Improvements, Sewer Sinking, Electric Utility, Electric
Sinking, Sunsmart Community Solar, and Parking Operations. The Parking Capital Reserve
fund was briefly reviewed; it is used to fund future Parking capital projects. Due to lost revenue
due to the pandemic, funds had to be transferred to fund operations in 2021/22.
Budget Analyst Masteller continued with brief explanations of additional Enterprise funds, as
follows: Transit Operations, Transit Student Government Trust, Transit Capital Reserve,
Stormwater Utility, Stormwater Improvements, Ames/ISU Ice Arena, Ice Arena Capital Reserve,
Homewood Golf Course, and Resource Recovery. Corrected pages for Transit Operations (Page
332) and Transit Student Government Trust (Page 333) were distributed to the Council members.
The Debt Service fund was described. The available fund balance from this account is used to
reduce future debt service.
The presentation concluded with summaries being given of Internal Services funds, including
Fleet Services, Fleet Replacement Reserve, Information Technology, Technology Replacement
Reserve, Technology Reserve Fund, Shared Communications System, Printing Services,
Messenger Services, Risk Management, and Health Insurance.
City Manager Schainker brought the Council’s attention to the memo included in the Special
Reports regarding the FY Budget for Ames Intermodal Facility. He noted that at the end of FY
2022/23, it is projected that the balance in the Facility will be $271,719.85. The Agreement
between the City and Iowa State University requires the parties to share equally in any year
where revenues do not. Mr. Schainker stated that, due to the excellent work being done by Mark
Miller, who manages the Facility, the City’s financial support was rewquired only in the first two
years of the Intermodal’s existence. Since no deficit is being projected for FY 2022/23, no
action will be needed from the City Council.
City Manager Schainker noted that information regarding the proposed allocations for COTA,
ASSET, and Outside Funding requests had been provided to the Mayor and Council. The
decisions on the allocations will be finalized at the Budget Wrap-Up meeting to be held on
February 8.
DISPOSITION OF COMMUNICATIONS: Mayor Haila noted that a letter submitted by Jeri
Neal, on behalf of the Ames Climate Action Team, had been received. This item was taken
under advisement by the Council.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Noting that most of the largest cities in Iowa are already at the 8/10
limit for debt, Council Member Gartin noted that not all communities are in the good financial
position like the City of Ames. He credited and thanked City staff for working hard to get the
City in that position. Council Member Betcher echoed those comments.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Gartin, to adjourn the meeting at
4:47 p.m.
________________________________________ ____________________________________
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF
THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA FEBRUARY 1, 2022
CALL TO ORDER: The Special Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor
John Haila at 5:15 p.m. on February 1, 2022, in the City Council Chambers in City Hall, 515 Clark
Avenue, pursuant to law. Present were Council Members Gloria Betcher, Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen,
Amber Corrieri, Tim Gartin, Rachel Junck, and Anita Rollins. Ex officio Member Trevor Poundstone
was absent.
FY 2022/23 BUDGET PROPOSALS:
Library Services. Library Director Sheila Schofer noted that they added back services this year and
made the most of the COVID innovations by offering outdoor programming and using new
technology to reach more people in hybrid and virtual environments. This time last year the lobby
was opened to the public after being closed due to COVID-19. Throughout the pandemic, the Library
remained committed to serving customers, staying connected, and meeting customers’ needs in new
and different ways. The Library uses its Strategic Plan, which was launched in 2020, to focus its
ongoing work in the areas of equity, inclusion, civic engagement, access, wellness, and staff
development.
The Library Administration Team has the responsibility for overall staffing and operations of the
Library. It includes key teams of Information Technology, Volunteer Resources, and Building
Maintenance. Ms. Schofer highlighted the new front door and adult changing table that were
completed. The IT Department had been critical in helping with the changing of community needs.
Wi-Fi services were boosted, improved patron printing experiences, document scanning, and easy
card payment options. The public PC’s and laptops were upgraded. The public meeting rooms were
also upgraded.
To help with Staff Development the Library formed a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Team that
helped identify a trainer and is helping to guide some library focused training. Director Schofer
explained that volunteers play an important role in all the services. The Library is planning an in-
person appreciation event for the volunteers in the Spring.
Council Member Gartin noticed that there was a significant reduction in volunteer hours and wanted
to know if that has affected the library at all. Ms. Schofer stated it had a little bit, but staff has been
able to work through the reduction. She noted that the volunteers are starting to come back as the
pandemic is changing.
Library Resource Services is responsible for the acquisition, cataloging, processing, and management
of all items in the Library’s collection. This includes the administration of the Integration Library
System, management of all electronic resources, and the Library’s online presence. Director Schofer
indicated that the downloadable e-books, audio, and videos are increasing in popularity. The Library
is continuing to offer online subscriptions and tools to the community. Another resource that is
offered is online learning tools for student success.
Youth Services gave out over 9,000 grab-and-go kits, which were science kits and corresponded to
an online video. Families came out over the summer for several events at Bandshell Park and
throughout the City. Summer meals were offered, and 1,464 meals were served.
Council Member Betcher asked what accounted for the tremendous increase in the number of teen
programs, as it seemed counterintuitive as most other areas dropped in numbers. Director Schofer
mentioned that the teens really latched on to the online presence. The Library had a discord channel
and Zoom programs.
For Civic Engagement, the Library held multiple vaccination clinics and worked with several
organizations to host the School Board candidate forums. The Library partnered with various other
community organizations to encourage engagement. Staff works in collaboration with The Bridge
Home to host them at the Library as the Library is already serving that key population. The Library
was intentional in offering inclusive programming. The Library Customer Account Services team
looks at ways to respond to customer needs and make the Library easier to do business with. Ms.
Schofer noted that the Wi-Fi hotspots were checked out 917 times. A big innovation that was done
was the implementation of student and educator cards. In partnership with the Ames Community
Schools, over 5,000 students and 300 educators were issued library accounts.
Council Member Betcher asked if there was any way to measure the success of promoting
Neighborhood Associations at the Library. Ms. Schofer stated it was done one time and it was more
of a get-to-know-you effort. Ms. Betcher felt the City should continue to promote the Neighborhood
Association.
Council Members Rollins asked if there was any way to know if the hotspots that were checked out
were used by adults or adults with children. She was curious if families from the school districts
were taking advantage of the opportunity. Director Schofer mentioned that there may have been
some, but they don’t track that information; it was more teens who checked out the hotspots.
Council Member Gartin asked for data on the bookmobile as he didn’t see it mentioned. Ms. Schofer
noted that the bookmobile did not go out that often and the information will be slim. It was indicated
that there was some information on Page 193 of the Draft Program Budget book. Mr. Gartin wanted
to know if the Library was working directly with the schools regarding resources and programming.
Director Schofer stated that they do, and the partnership is continuing to improve.
Mayor Haila noticed that the H. Barnes Reading Academy is not getting funded for FY 2022/23 and
questioned what happened. Director Schofer stated that the H. Barnes Reading Academy withdrew
its funding.
The Mayor stated that one of the in-progress activities was to support youth wellness through staff
training opportunities like “Youth Mental Health First Aid” and through partnerships on programs
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like “Teen Dating Violence” and “Mindful Teen.” Ms. Schofer stated that the “Mindful Teen” was
a series that was partnered with ISU Extension. She was not sure the turn-out was what was
expected, but they are going to continue to try different programming.
Water Operations. John Dunn, Director of the Water and Pollution Control Department, introduced
the members of the Water and Pollution Control Leadership Team. Photos were shown of the student
operators. Director Dunn provided an overview of the two main areas of emphasis that the
Administrative Division handles that are included in the Administration budget. He highlighted that
there has been a request for another FTE to be added to the budget for a new SCADA & Controls
Technician and this position will be under the Administration budget.
Regarding Plant Operations, Director Dunn stated there was a moderate drought for most of last year
and the South Skunk River went completely dry. Water demands were at or near all-time highs for
each month of the summer. The budget is always set for “normal” years, not for drought or flood
years. Resiliency is a big deal and that is why scattered throughout both the Operating Budget and
the Capital Improvements Plan are things that will improve the safety and security of the utilities.
Examples were additional standby power, new fencing, additional security cameras, cyber security
measures, and bringing SCADA support in-house are all designed to address what is referred to as
a “multi-hazard resiliency” approach. The Water Treatment Plant will host an Open House on
Saturday, April 23, 2022.
Programs for WPC Facility Operations. The programs covered under Facility Operations included
Administration, Flood Warning, Maintenance, Treatment, and Farm Operations. Director Dunn
mentioned that the Ames Water and Pollution Control Facility (WPCF) received the prestigious
Platinum 31 Peak Performance Award. The Award recognizes the Ames WPCF for 31 consecutive
years of perfect compliance with its National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit. The
WPCF holds the second-longest compliance record in the nation. In December WPCF staff received
a new DRAFT NPDES Permit from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. There was a 45-day
comment period and there were a number of comments that were made, but there is nothing that staff
felt would warrant appealing the Permit.
W&PC Laboratory. The laboratory is one of several work groups that will be impacted by the federal
Lead and Copper Rule Revisions. The rule change will impact the number of samples that have to
be collected in each sample round and the types of locations from where samples are taken. The
revised rule contained a number of provisions regarding how utilities communicate with customers
about the test results, but this will not have an impact on the City as staff is already performing that
task. Director Dunn noted that, while watching the various infrastructure funding bills being debated,
he and Public Works Director John Joiner are watching to see if there will be an opportunity to
utilize federal funding to incentivize private property owners to replace their lead service lines.
Council Member Gartin asked how many properties are served by lead. Director Dunn indicated it
was around 250 properties, which is about 1.5% of all services lines in Ames. Mr. Gartin inquired
how much it might cost a property owner to replace lead service lines. It was indicated that it would
3
be between $6,000 to $8,000.
W&PC Metering Services. Director Dunn mentioned that staff is around 75% complete with the
Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) conversion. The ability to get to that 75% number is going to be
heavily dependent on supply chain issues.
Council Member Betcher asked what the life expectancy was for one of the units. Mr. Dunn expected
the radios to last 10 to 15 years.
Council Member Rollins inquired if the meters had the ability for the customers to interface with
them and to know real-time how they are using water. Director Dunn indicated that this first phase
does not have that ability; however, the meters can be converted from AMR to an Advanced
Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system. The AMI option is currently being explored.
Mr. Dunn reviewed the rate and fee adjustments:
1. Proposed 5% Sewer rate increase, effective July 1, 2022 (no change to water rates)
2. Increase other “sewer-related” fees by 5%
3. Annual update to meter-setting fees based on actual costs
Council Member Gartin asked how the drought impacted the City’s aquifer. Director Dunn stated
that in each of the City’s wells there is the ability to monitor real-time the draw down. The City is
able to spread out the demand through multiple wells. The new Treatment Facility, with its ability
to augment ammonia, has given the Operators a lot more flexibility to select which wells to turn on.
Mayor Haila mentioned that a new well is scheduled to be built and asked for an update. Director
Dunn indicated they are working on the last of the permitting issues. Staff is looking to redesign a
few elements before the project is bid. Hopefully, the project will go to bid this summer and it will
take about a year before the new well will be in service.
Public Works. Public Works Director John Joiner showed the Public Works Department
organizational structure. An overview was given of the work activities for the Utilities Program,
including Water Distribution, Sanitary Sewer Collection, and Stormwater/Storm Sewer. Staff has
been trying to increase its use of social media. Director Joiner mentioned that the City is about five
to six water main breaks below the average. Public Works Director John Joiner showed a video
highlighting the hydrant flushing program.
Stormwater Permit System - In 2021, Ames was named “River Town of the Year.” Director Joiner
noted that public education and outreach efforts are key activities that are promoted through the
Smart Watershed. The stormwater utility fee is being recommended to increase from $4.95 to $5.20
a month.
Resource Recovery. The existing landfill on the west side of Dayton has had a Closure Permit with
the IDOT for over 20 years and that Permit has now been closed. An Environmental Covenant has
4
been issued to the City; this acknowledges the stability of the landfill and the good work that City
employees are doing. The Waste-to-Energy Alternatives Study is underway and will hopefully come
back to the Council in the Spring. The Food Waste Diversion program continues to grow, and staff
is currently piloting anaerobic digestion with WPC.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen asked if the anaerobic digester could be placed elsewhere and how
much water it takes to fund the digester. Director Joiner noted he was not sure of the amount of
water to run a unit or the scalability. Resource Recover Superintendent Bill Schmitt commented that
he was not sure if they would be able to put more digesters around the City, but staff is looking at
having alternative drop-off sites.
It was highlighted that Rummage RAMPage averages about 100,000 lbs. of waste each year that is
able to be diverted from the landfill.
Transportation. Highlights were given for Public Works Administration, Engineering, Traffic
Engineering and Operations, Street System Maintenance, Parking Operations, and Airport
Operations. For Administration, the Ames-on-the-Go mobile app and Web site has seen an increase
in usage. The Ames on the Go app has been utilized a lot and receives approximately 1,600 requests
per year. The service has been expanded to Parks and Recreation, Electric, Fire, and WPC. This year
will be another round of data collection and analysis of the Pavement Management Program. A big
celebration was the South Grand Avenue Extension ribbon-cutting.
The Mayor asked what kind of data is collected for the Pavement Management Data Program.
Director Joiner mentioned that staff checks the ride/smoothness, amount of cracking, and the cracks
offset. That information is then entered along with the roadway type, age, and if the road had been
overlaid. All the data is then analyzed and rated and then the ratings are used to help with future
projects and the Capital Improvement Plan.
Public Works GIS: Director Joiner mentioned this activity has been moved out to stand alone.
Director Joiner explained all the different activities that GIS performs.
Under the Snow & Ice Control Program, Director Joiner noted that staff planned for 19 events with
a total of 36" of snow; there have been eight events with 15 inches of snow to date. A graph
highlighting the average response time per season has continued to trend down for the past decade
as the team has improved its efficiency. A graph of salt usage was shown.
Parking Operations: Staff is going to do a Smart Meter trial on the meters that will be placed in the
new Downtown Plaza. The new meters will be able to take credit cards.
Regarding Airport Operations: Director Joiner reported that the Airport Master Plan has been
completed. The City will continue to receive fixed-based operator services from Central Iowa Air
Service. Staff has been working on finalizing the Sigler Purchase and this will be coming back to
Council in the next few months.
5
Council Member Gartin said he continues to get good feedback from people who are utilizing the
Airport. Mr. Gartin wanted to know how long the waiting list was for anyone who wanted to store
a plane in a hangar. Mr. Joiner noted it was hard to gauge the turnover, but there is a significant
waiting list as all the hangars are full. It was noted that the Master Plan had identified areas to add
additional T-hangars, and the City would be looking for public/private partnerships.
Council Member Betcher questioned how many landfills were still in Story County. Director Joiner
stated there are not any active landfills. Ms. Betcher asked what the City would do if the Boone
landfill couldn’t handle any more capacity. Mr. Joiner indicated that staff has been looking into that
and the closest option would be to go to Marshall County or potential options with Metro Waste
Authority.
Fleet Services. Director Corey Mellies advised that the hourly rate for maintenance services will
increase to $81.11/hour in FY 2022/23, which is a 3.7% increase. The rate is designed to recover the
cost of the technicians’ salaries and benefits. The average fuel costs are projected to be $2.45 for FY
2021/22 and $2.25 for FY 2022/23. There were 48 vehicles and equipment purchased for the City
in 2020/21. A chart was shown of the fuel trends from 2012/13 to 2021/22. The B100 fuel cost is
currently $2.62 which is cheaper than the diesel fuel at $2.85. A graph was shown showing the fuel
trends from 2011 to 2020. The E85 and diesel have gone down due to the usage of B100. About 28%
of the current fleet has been converted to green. He highlighted that in Years 1 and 2 of the B100
Pilot Project, the City has been able to reduce the metric tons by 225.
Council Member Betcher asked how long the B100 Pilot Program is supposed to last. Director
Mellies indicated that the pilot program was for three years. He indicated that discussions will have
to happen with REG about leasing the fuel tanks when the pilot is complete. The City has received
a lot of phone calls from all over the country regarding the B100 program.
Fleet Services is a member of the Technical Team for the Climate Action Plan and has been
discussing assumptions for the fleet, what is needed to meet the goals, and then creating a plan.
Director Mellies discussed different vehicle purchases for the next year along with a few challenges.
The Mayor mentioned that Fleet Services space is becoming tight when trying to park all the
different vehicles and equipment. He wanted to know if there was any plan to expand the facility for
more parking. Mr. Mellies noted that the fabric storage barn has been completed and items can go
into the building and this will help for now, but at some point, there may need to be more
discussions.
Facilities. Unfortunately, the City is still dealing with COVID-19 and mitigation efforts are
continuing. The keycard access is 99% installed at City Hall and the Fire Stations. Employee
keycards should be coming out in the next couple of weeks. Staff is working on the plans for the
Downtown Plaza and working with Parks and Recreation on the Indoor Aquatic Center. A consultant
has been hired to work on interior updates to City Hall. The colors of the walls have been decided;
it will be shades of gray along with green. Director Mellies highlighted upcoming future projects.
6
Finance Services. Finance Director Duane Pitcher presented the budget for the Economic
Development Program. They had established an additional Urban Renewal Area and Plan for
improvements in Downtown Ames. He mentioned that they had applied for the Iowa Reinvestment
District funding and received a provisional award of $10 million to help fund an Aquatic Center;
they are working on the completion of a final application. Director Pitcher stated that all TIF Funds
are now collecting more incremental property tax than the annual debt service payments.
Director Pitcher briefly covered the budgets and gave highlights for Financial Services, including
Administration, Purchasing Services, Information Technology, Utility Customer Service, and
Parking Violation Collection. He noted that there had been a lot of turnover that has impacted the
budget. He noted that Finance has continued to maintain its Aa1 G.O. Bond rating. Finance received
a GFOA Certificate of Excellence for Budget Document. Finance has also continued to expand on
electronic payments, American Rescue Plan, CARES Act, FEMA COVID and derecho grants.
Purchasing Services -This Division supports all large City initiatives, implementing electronic
bidding and vendor management, and continues to improve use of electric management and working
to connect to the finance software. He noted that the supply chain has affected everything, and the
cards needed for the badge access were delayed.
Information Technology. Director Pitcher noted that the only change was due to the increase in
equipment purchases. Staff has continued to improve security with Cisco Umbrella and Cisco ISE.
A big change was the Central Square account system was migrated to Software-as-a-Service
(SAAS), retiring the IBM i-Series server. Staff is working to enter into an Enterprise Agreement with
Microsoft to improve management and security and working on improvements to mobile device
management software.
Council Member Betcher inquired if there has been a delay with equipment purchases. IT Manager
Brent Moore stated that the Dell purchases formerly took two to three weeks and now it is taking two
to three months. Ms. Betcher asked how the City plans for any equipment wait time. Mr. Moore
mentioned they are trying to order equipment early to put it into stock and will continue to order
stock as needed.
When referencing Utility Customer Service, Director Pitcher noted that the budget shows there was
a lot of turnover in the Division and the budget will reflect the change as long-term employees have
retired and have been replaced by newer employees, which caused a decrease. This Division had
implemented multiple COVID relief assistance programs, community solar credits, and a new
parking ticket issuance and collection system with the Police Department.
DISPOSITIONS OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: City Manager Schainker noted that
two additional requests for funding were given to the Council. It was asked if the Council wanted
to respond to the requests individually or refer the requests to the City Manager for more information
before the Budget Wrap-Up meeting. The first request was from Sharon Wirth and Craig Marrs on
behalf of the Ames History Museum and the other was from Lauris Olson, Home Allies requesting
7
funding for public purposes of increasing long-term housing for low-income and housing-insecure
residents in Ames. The Council inquired if there were any more requests that would be coming in.
Mr. Schainker mentioned the request from Ms. Olson is asking for a total amount for two different
purposes; one is for construction and the other is for support.
Council Member Betcher wanted to know if the Home Allies request was accurate in discerning if
the way it is structured is legal. She mentioned that Attorney Lambert had provided a letter about the
funding for the History Museum and the letter from Ms. Olson asserts that the Home Allies program
is not the same. Ms. Betcher wanted to know if that was true.
Council Member Corrieri mentioned they haven’t discussed in a couple of years about doing another
round of Capital Grants for Nonprofits. She wanted to bring up the competitive Grant process to the
rest of the Council to see if it might be a better way to analyze the funding requests that have been
received. Ms. Corrieri asked the Council if they would like to have a grant process instead of
possibly setting a new trend to take random requests. Council Member Betcher stated that the
Downtown request and the History Museum are already a part of the City Council grant process. Ms.
Corrieri pointed out that Downtown and the History Museum were not eligible for the Capital Grants
in the past as they were only open to ASSET agencies. The Council continued to discuss if they
should offer the Grant process or take everything on a case-by-case basis.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Corrieri, to put the request from the Ames History Museum
and Home Allies on to the February 8, 2022 Agenda for discussion.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Council Member Gartin stated there was a brief discussion regarding climate action and how it
relates to the CIP process. The recommendations from the consultant won’t be to the Council until
April, and he felt from a timing perspective, it is going to be difficult to add a climate component
to the operating budget. Mr. Schainker noted that the Council has $1 million to prioritize. He noted
that he will have to give the Council an implementation process and it is going to be a multi-million
dollar change and will need to outline a strategy. Mr. Schainker stated it needs to be well-thought-out
as it will affect property taxes, electric rates, and other utility rates. He has already provided the
Council with smaller projects that could be started. Mr. Gartin commented that the Council should
be thinking of how climate budgetary issues will be handled in the next budget. Mr. Schainker
pointed out that it is not just the City of Ames organization, but what the industrial community is
going to do, or what ISU is going to do. Everyone will have a role in it, and everyone will have to
invest in it.
Assistant City Manager Deb Schildroth stated that April 5 is the Steering Committee meeting where
SSG will present the low-carbon action steps. This will come as a packaged deal and the Council
needs to be careful about what they want to do. She noted that, because of the ambitious goal of
trying to get to a goal by 2030, the City will need to take big steps instead of small steps. A survey
has been put together, but this has been slowed down due to adding the cost estimates. It was
anticipated that the survey will be mailed out the week of February 14. Mr. Gartin asked how a price
8
tag could be added to the survey when the Council doesn’t have the recommendations back yet. Ms.
Schildroth stated that SSG has been working on the recommendations and the Technical Committee
has been reviewing the recommendations and assessing cost estimates to each one. She noted that
she has not seen the survey yet, but it will go through each Committee before it goes out. Mr. Gartin
asked if the Council was interested in seeing the survey before it went out. Council Member Betcher
commented that she trusts the staff. Mr. Schainker said they can ask the consultant and get back to
the Council.
COMMENTS: Council Member Betcher stated she will be sending the Council an email about an
addition to the budget for a continuation for one year of the Small Art Grant Pilot Program at a
funding level of $30,000.
The Mayor mentioned that the legislature had met on sales tax. He mentioned that it is being tracked
and not sure if going to affect the City. Mayor Haila explained that he will keep the Council updated.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adjourn at 7:46 p.m. Motion
declared carried unanimously.
****************************************************************************
MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF
THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA FEBRUARY 2, 2022
CALL TO ORDER: The Special Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor
John Haila at 5:15 p.m. on February 2, 2022, in the City Council Chambers in City Hall, 515 Clark
Avenue, pursuant to law. Present were Council Members Gloria Betcher, Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen,
Amber Corrieri, Tim Gartin, Rachel Junck, and Anita Rollins. Ex officio Member Trevor Poundstone
was absent.
FY 2022/23 BUDGET PROPOSALS:
Parks & Recreation. Parks and Recreation Director Keith Abraham stated that there was a big
impact on participation due to COVID-19. The impact affected revenue and part-time staffing. In
2019, there were 456 part-time staff, but due to COVID, there were only 272 part-time staff hired
in 2020; however, in 2021 the numbers picked back up and there were 343 part-time staff hired.
Director Abraham mentioned that there would be some fee changes for FY 2022/23. The overall
activities/programs are experiencing a 40% increase. Staff is recommending the Ice Rental Rates
increase by 5%. The increase to Homewood season passes will vary. A 3% increase for passes was
proposed for the Furman Aquatic Center. A 3% increase in the Auditorium Rental Rates was
recommended. The Parks and Recreation Department offers scholarships and the number of
registrations has gone down since 2016/17. They are going to work on promoting scholarships to
hopefully get more registrations.
Council Member Gartin noted he spent several years on City Council before he knew that the Parks
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and Recreation Department offered scholarships. He asked if the scholarships were for just kids or
adults as well. Director Abraham stated that the program scholarships are for 6th graders and below;
however, the swimming pass scholarships are for youth, adults, and families. Mr. Abraham
mentioned that the Parks and Recreation Commission has asked staff to look at the scholarship
program and come back with recommendations; staff will need to look at the impact to the budget.
Council Member Betcher asked about the program passes and if there was any information on what
they are being used for. Director Abraham stated he did not have the data in front of him, but felt
they were mainly used for swim lessons.
Director Abraham highlighted activities that the Parks and Recreation Department offers for the
Miracle League, ski clinic, and fishing. He noted that the Small Wonders program has been
happening for 30 years; but this program will be discontinued at the end of this year. The numbers
have not been as well attended as it used to be five mornings a week. Now only three mornings are
offered. The North River Valley Concession will be discontinued in 2022 for adult softball leagues,
but will be open for bigger events.
Director Abraham provided an update on the Municipal Pool. He mentioned that there will be
program relocations in 2022/23; they have budgeted $100,000 to make adjustments to the Gateway
building and this will free up space within City Hall to allow for more offices and conference rooms.
Virtual Registrations for in-person classes were 142 in FY 2020/21, and in FY 2021/22, there were
67 virtual attendees. Due to COVID there were 17 outdoor classes. In FY 2022/23, staff will
continue to offer outdoor classes.
Ames/ISU Ice Arena - ISU is not offering some programs (hockey), which has had an impact on
rentals. Staff will be offering a “Drive the Zamboni Experience” in 2022.
Homewood Golf Course Clubhouse. Director Abraham mentioned they are offering clubhouse
rentals. The budget is set to expect 100 hours of rentals, and so far, they are at 70 hours. Staff has
been getting calls for graduation parties.
Park Maintenance - One thing that added to the budget has been the addition of new parks and
amenities. Director Abraham mentioned, in order to maintain everything, they are hiring an
additional Maintenance Worker. The work schedule for Maintenance Workers will be changing; it
will be going to a Wednesday through Sunday schedule. It was highlighted that they have a group
that volunteers their time and last year had over 1,000 volunteers that helped clean out debris from
the parks. The Carr Park bathhouse will be demolished, and a lot of the materials will be recycled.
All the parks are on a five-year tree-pruning schedule. Director Abraham explained that from July
1, 2021, to January 30, 2022, staff had removed 25 at risk trees, inspected and pruned 866 trees,
planted 42 trees, and received $5,000 in tree planting grants and outside funding.
Pertaining to Cemetery Operations - Director Abraham stated that two columbariums were added
and another one was moved. A pavilion will be added along with some sidewalks.
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Right-of-Way Management. The tree pruning will happen every five years and is broken down into
different zones. The accomplishments from July 1, 2021 to January 30, 2022, included removing 142
right-of-way at risk-trees’, 2,503 right-of-way trees were inspected and pruned; 160 trees were
planted, and $10,000 was received in tree-planting grants and outside funding. Director Abraham
indicated that staff was in Year 8 of the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) tree removal. He noted that by
the end of Year 9 all the ash trees will be removed from the parks and cemeteries. This will leave
only 392 trees in the rights-of-way to remove.
City Manager Schainker stated there were 1,400 EAB trees removed, but he wanted to know how
many were planted. Parks and Facility Supervisor Joshua Thompson explained they plant trees one
by one. This way when one is removed, they plant another one.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen commented that the Council had received an email from a citizen
requesting more tree planting. She asked how much tree planting is limited by funding versus time
or labor. Director Abraham explained that the City Forester put together a draft with some of the
information that the resident had asked about. He is hoping to present it to the City Council soon.
Council Member Betcher asked, when trees in the ROW are taken out, does staff notify the
homeowners if the tree roots have made the sidewalk bulge. Mr. Abraham explained that they do
notify the homeowner; that is sometimes why the tree is removed. He noted sometimes the roots can
be cut, but not always. He noted that City Forrester Paul Tauke does a great job of working with
homeowners.
Council Member Gartin stated that the erosion control done at the Homewood was an extensive
project and a great job was done. Director Abraham stated it was a joint effort with Public Works
and worked really well. Mr. Gartin asked where the Parks and Recreation Commission was at
developing a trail on the East River Valley Trail further north. Mr. Abraham mentioned that
discussion has not occurred; they are limited going north due to private properties. Joshua Thompson
stated that they are working on getting more data and will bring it back to the Council in a couple
of months.
Electric Services. Donald Kom, Director of Electric Services, showed a video on the history of the
Power Plant.
The Electric Administration budget request for FY 2022/23 is $1,398,615, which reflects a 11%
increase. The increase was due to contractual expenditures; new radio lease, and increased
membership dues. Director Kom stated that some money was added to the budget to renovate the
Electric Administration building. Director Kom mentioned that overall, electric rates are 15% lower
than neighboring electric companies
Mr. Kom emphasized that, in the Demand-Side Management program the, City hit a peak on August
24, 2021 of 128.7 megawatts, but this was still below the highest peak of 130.7 set in 2012.
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Demand Side Energy. The Sun Smart program has pollinators, sheep, and native vegetation. The
total expenditures for FY 2022/23 are $1,081,719, which is a 6% increase from the previous year.
Director Kom highlighted programs that were done by Electric Services for the year (Sun Smart,
rebate programs, Geothermal Pilot at the Baker Subdivision, EV chargers, Prime Time Power
program, and a solar crate).
Council Member Gartin felt it was important to note that about 15% of the City’s energy is coming
from renewable energy. Director Kom explained that percentage is a little misleading because there
are three types of generation (natural gas plant, wind farm, solar farm), and these vary from month
to month. The remaining part of the energy is purchased from MISO, which is the regional grid. He
stated that the overall carbon footprint is between 35% to 40%, which would be considered green
renewable energy.
Council Member Gartin asked about the retail solar numbers and wanted to know, if the City wanted
to leverage those solar panels to increase capacity for residential solar would EUORAB be looking
into doing this. Mr. Kom mentioned that EUORAB is in the process of looking to hire a consultant
to look at five sites within Ames where the City can dramatically increase the amount of solar. The
focus has been to look at larger systems opposed to individual homes. There had been some
discussion about increasing some of the rebate programs, but then decreasing some of the buyback
rates.
Regarding the Electric Production program, total expenditures for FY 2022/23 were $13,949,963,
which is a 3.8% increase from the previous fiscal year. Director Kom noted that Unit 8 is up and
running. The expenditure increase was due to contractual services that increased preventive
maintenance. Electric Production had gone 349 days without lost time accidents. Director Kom said
that Plant staff is experiencing high turnover. Currently, the Waste-to-Energy study is 80% complete;
they are working to finalize with other departments.
Council Member Betcher noted that in the video, it showed Units 5 and 6 were dormant. She wanted
to know why the Units were still there instead of being removed. Director Kom stated it is very
costly to remove the Units. He noted that part of the Waste-to-Energy study is taking Unit 5 or Unit
6 and trying to reuse the turbines.
Fuel & Purchased Power is the largest of all the program budgets with an estimated total expenditure
of $32,344,052 for FY 2022/23, which is a decrease of 1.2% from the previous year. It was noted
that natural gas prices have been going up, but for the City of Ames, it is significantly lower as the
prices were locked in under a Contract until 2023. Council Member Beatty-Hansen stated the
Contract is on its seven year of an eight- year contract and she wondered if the rates will go way up
as. Director Kom said he was hopeful that rates would go back down in the next year. He explained
that the Waste-to-Energy study has the intent to move away from natural gas, and it is the hope that
this will help protect the City and reduce greenhouse gases.
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Electric Distribution Operations/Maintenance will see an increase of 1% for FY 2022/23 to
$3,666,846. The biggest expense was for tree trimming. He mentioned that they now have a text
messaging system for outages. More information will be sent out to the public regarding this option.
Electric Distribution Extensions/Improvements. The total expenditures for FY 2022/23 are estimated
to be $2,509,530. This is a 3.7% decrease from the FY 2021/22 Adopted Budget. Director Kom
mentioned the following projects: adding more capacity to the Mortensen Road feeder; Duff and
South 16th transmission; Baker Subdivision; Street Lights on Grand and S. 5th Street; and system
maintenance.
Technical Services. Director Kom said that the total expenditures for FY 2022/23 are estimated to
be $1,276,029, which is a 5.6% increase from the FY 2021-22 Adopted Budget. The increase is due
to the long lead time on meters/parts, transformer oil, servicing, and transportation.
Electric Engineering will see a 2.6% decrease for the FY 2021/22 Adopted Budget. The total
estimated expenditures are $942,290. It was noted that a lot of the electrical system is over 30 years
old and staff is having to replace failing underground and overhead lines. The DOT has asked the
City to move its power lines in order to expand I35. The LED street light change-out should be
finished in FY 2021/22. Retail approvals are up to 155 retail customers that have solar.
The Electric Fund is estimated to have total revenues of $65,779,600. This is down 2.4% from FY
2021/22 Adopted Budget. It is estimated that the estimated Fund Balance by the end of FY 2022/23
would be around $30,243,579. Unreserved Fund Balance will be $20,143,579. Staff is not suggesting
any rate increases for FY 2022/23.
Council Member Betcher asked if the age of the City’s system was in line with the age of other
electrical systems in the state. Director Kom stated that typically it is; however, a few cities had
upgraded their systems after the derecho. The City of Ames is looking to replace over a half dozen
poles every year.
Mayor Haila inquired what the impact would be on the electric distribution system when looking at
making changes for the Climate Action Plan (CAP). Director Kom explained that ISU will have to
make changes and its load will more than double what they are currently using with the City. This
will probably cause a new substation to be built or a new unit to be built. When looking at homes,
adding an electric car charger could increase a homeowner’s electric consumption by 50% or higher,
depending on how fast the vehicle charges. Director Kom stated staff will need to do an Integrated
Resource Plan.
Fire Department. Fire Chief Rich Higgins stated that the Fire Department is broken down into two
programs: Fire Safety and Building Safety. Chief Higgins explained they are currently in the
recruitment process for a new Deputy Fire Chief and a new Plans Examiner. The current Plans
Examiner Scott McCambridge was just recently promoted to the position of Assistant Building
Official. There are also a few firefighter openings, and they anticipate a few more later this year due
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to promotions and the addition of a proposed new firefighter for the next fiscal year. Chief Higgins
noted they are incrementally increasing staffing levels in anticipation of adding a fourth fire station.
Staff is recommending a 3.2% overall increase in the Fire Safety Budget. He recognized ISU and its
25% commitment to the City’s operating budget and debt services, which is projected to be a little
over $2 million next year.
Fire Administration and Support - Chief Higgins highlighted three different areas. The first is their
COVID-19 response team. This group started meeting in March of 2020 and continues to meet
regularly to protect and service the community during the ongoing pandemic. The second area was
Community and Civic engagement and outreach programs. This area helped get “Stop the Bleed”
kits placed around City Hall next to the AEDs. Chief Higgins said staff is now training City staff and
other community members on how to use tourniquets and bandages to stop someone from bleeding.
The training kit was made possible by a Fireworks Safety Grant that the City was able to secure
through the State of Iowa Fire Marshal’s Office. Another activity where staff was able to use the
grant money was to purchase two new training props: a trash can and a stop top fire unit. The “Stop
the Bleed” kits; CPR, and AED training kits, and the portable fire extinguisher training kit allows
firefighters to come to the customers, businesses, or neighborhoods and provide lifesaving training
free of charge. The third area that Chief Higgins wanted to highlight was the City’s Incident
Command Center Development. A lot of work goes on behind the scenes with other departments to
make sure the City is ready to respond to large-scale emergency disasters. Pictures were shown of
the train derailment that happened in June 2021. It was mentioned that staff will begin transitioning
the primary Incident Command Center from the Ames City Hall Police Squad room to the Ames
Water Plant. A state-funded and sponsored Incident Command Center Exercise will be conducted
alongside Story County EMA in April 2023.
Council Member Rollins asked if the Fire Department had its own drone. Chief Higgins stated that
they do as they are typically tied up with other concerns, but there are a couple other departments that
have drones and the training to help when needed.
Fire Suppression & Emergency Action. Chief Higgins stated that the EMT transition was complete.
In January 2022, staff moved to full-time Emergency Medical Technician Services. The change to
EMT will increase the service level to the community, which will give quicker access to more
advanced medical care on site by the Ames firefighters. The fire station received its first set of
battery-powered extrication equipment that has been ordered and will be placed into service around
March when the new ladder truck goes into service. This change will help lower carbon emissions,
increase service capabilities with unlimited tool reach, and extend the service life of the equipment.
This change will start the transition towards smaller, pickup style, rescue units for medical calls and
will bring the department one-step closer towards purchasing a technical rescue vehicle. In 2021,
firefighters responded to 4,954 total incidents. Photos were shown of the Ames Public Safety
Training Site along with a vision for the future buildout of the Ames Public Safety Training Site that
is shared with the Ames Police Department.
Community Outreach. Station tours have not returned to normal since the start of the pandemic, but
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crews are continuing to find ways to engage with the public and share a fire safety message.
Building Safety - According to Chief Higgins, the Division budget is requesting an overall increase
of 6.8 %, and no Building Permit fee increases. The increase is a result of some health insurance
changes and planned pay step increases. Staff experienced a larger than expected increase in the
number of residential permits being issued last year. It was thought this was partly due to more
people being home during the pandemic and the availability of stimulus money for home projects.
Commercial permits declined last year, but were only off by 11% from the six-year average. Staff’s
goal is always education over enforcement as they want customers to understand the “why” behind
the codes.
For Rental Housing, staff is proposing a 3% Rental Fee increase for the next fiscal year. This
increase will result in a price per-unit increase ranging from $0.73 for apartment complexes over 20
units to $1.46 for a single-family dwelling rental. The fee schedule was last adjusted in 2017 when
a third rental inspector was added. The number of rental units within our community continues to
grow despite last year’s lull.
The Mayor asked how many new single-family permits were issued. Ms. Van Meeteren stated she
is not sure, but they are remaining steady, maybe a couple hundred a year.
Law Enforcement. Police Chief Geoff Huff highlighted a video showing an unfortunate event that
happened to a couple of young lemonade entrepreneurs. Eventually, the $750 donation ballooned to
$7,500 and the money was used for the Shop-with-a-Cop program and donated to the Boys and Girls
Club Fundraising Gala. In addition, the Animal Shelter received over $8,000 in donations due to
Betty White’s birthday.
Chief Huff said that 2020 was an unusual year with a few retirements and several staff leaving the
Police Department, including nine police officers and the Chief of Police. In addition, the contract
for the School Resource Office will not be renewed for the 2022/23 school year. The reduction in
staff of one FTE will offset the lost revenue from the School District. Of the nine openings, Chief
Huff noted that four openings have been filled with five more in the hiring process. Once hired, new
officers still need to attend a 16-week Iowa Law Enforcement Academy and the City’s own four-
month field training program.
Council Member Gartin asked what efforts were taken with the recruitment process for new Police
Officers. Chief Huff said that staff works closely with Human Resources and recruitment was done
in Illinois and Minnesota.
Council Member Betcher asked if the City was still getting candidates who are coming from college
or other areas. Chief Huff indicated it was a little bit of everything. Most people have a four-year
degree and they are seeing a lot of candidates who have military service experience.
Chief Huff said that the Police Department partnered with “Hope in Christ” to bring National Night
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Out back for 2021. This partnership led to supplying over 700 backpacks with school supplies to kids
in need. This event also helped staff build stronger relationships with the diverse community. Chief
Huff highlighted several events that Police Officers participated in.
It was mentioned that staff is finishing the last pieces of the StoryComm Public Safety/Public
Service Radio system. New radio equipment is being installed in the Communications Center; there
were some supply issues that caused a delay.
In July, the Department began the process of publishing its Monthly Activity Reports. The Reports
are published on the Police Department’s website, distributed on social media, and printed/electronic
copies are available at the Library as well the Police Department. To date, the Department has
completed nine of the recommendations from the “Policing in Ames, a Path Forward” Report. Staff
is currently working on the Ames Resident Police Advisory Committee, which will help complete
several of the other recommendations from the Report. Chief Huff reported that, along with the
Monthly Activity Reports on the website, there is also a new reporting form to allow residents to file
a compliment or complaint that goes directly to Chief Huff. The Police Department is looking
forward to working with an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer. The entire Department attended
12 hours of cultural awareness training.
The Department now has five Police Hybrid vehicles that are being used in the fleet and anticipate
receiving four more in the next six months. This will put the Police Department at 90% hybrid in the
Police Patrol Fleet. The detective vehicles are at 50% hybrid, and staff will continue to replace all
vehicles with hybrids within the next two years. Staff has found that they will save around $8,000
per year on fuel at the current rates, which reduces carbon dioxide by 32.1 metric tons. The hybrid
vehicles also help reduce oil changes from 13 a year to four, increase miles-per-gallon from eight
to 18, and reduce maintenance costs.
Chief Huff said that the Department is continuing to see increases in mental health calls for service
despite the many partnerships in the community. There are some partners that have limited
interactions due to COVID shutdowns and precautions. It is anticipated that the numbers will
continue to increase for mental health calls. The Mental Health Advocate is being changed from a
3/4-time position to full-time. There were 2,300 mental/emotional health calls this year and 2,000
last year. A current program called “Third Way Program” with a couple agencies in Ames will help
with Mental Health calls.
Council Member Corrieri asked what the percentage was for repeat services for mental health. Chief
Huff noted he did not have the information at this time, but will see what he can find.
Under Police Administration and Records. The Department is looking to change a part-time evidence
custodian to a full-time position. There has been an increase in the amount of evidence that is taken
in, and the staff time to process the evidence has also increased.
Trends were reviewed for the Crime Prevention and Police Services. There was a reduction in
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assaults. Domestic violence calls ended up flat for the year, but there was an increase in sexual
assault cases. In addition, homicides are increasing; last year, there were four and typically there is
only one a year. Noise complaints and nuisance parties continued to trend down. Fireworks are still
a sore spot for citizens. Council Member Betcher asked how often anything can be done when a call
comes in for fireworks. Chief Huff noted that officers usually show up after the fireworks are done
and it is hard to catch someone in the act.
Thefts have continued to trend down, but seem to be flattening out. However, Chief Huff cautioned
that the decrease is due to a change in retailer policies. SCAMS are still rampant and take many
forms.
The number of accidents from 2015 through 2021 was shown. In 2020, there were 1,145 accidents,
and in 2021, there was an increase to 1,427. The Mayor stated it would be nice to see how many of
those accidents were weather-related.
Pertaining to the Communications - Emergency Medical Dispatch, the time to answer 911 calls were
reviewed. The National Fire Protection Association standards state that 90% of 911 calls shall be
answered within 15 seconds and 95% should be answered within 20 seconds. The City of Ames
dispatchers answered 92.5% of 911 calls within ten seconds or fewer and 98% in 15 seconds or
fewer. Approximately 4,166 medical calls were received.
Under Parking Enforcement. The new parking software launched in August 2020. Each ticket is
time-stamped and GPS located for accuracy. Tickets are uploaded to the cloud as soon as they are
printed, for customers to review, pay, or appeal. Of the 28,145 tickets written in 2021, 9,629 or
34.2% were for meter violations. The Community Safety Officers (CSOs) do more than just parking.
They assist Animal Control, take care of the bike auctions, provide motorist assists, and transport
prisoners.
Animal Control. Staff has seen an increase in intake of animals along with an increase in good
outcomes for the animals in the shelter. The Animal Control staff partnered with ISU College of
Veterinary Medicine and the Shelter Medicine Club to do a microchip clinic. The facility continues
to present challenges to staff. When any purchases for the shelter are made, staff tries to ensure that
what is acquired can be moved to a new shelter once one can get constructed. Unfortunately, due to
the high increase in construction costs, it is not a good time to move forward with building a new
shelter, but they will continue to look for funding sources.
Council Member Gartin said that the Department has been measuring racial stops and wanted to
know when that data would be available. Chief Huff stated the data will be released on February 10,
2022. City Manager Steve Schainker noted that the public is invited to attend the meeting where the
Chiefs of Police from Ames and ISU along with the consultant will share the Report. It will be
televised and streamed to watch real-time. There will be an opportunity for questions from the
Council and the public. It was mentioned that the study was brought upon by the City themselves
as the Police Department wanted to know how it was doing and what it could do to improve.
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Mayor Haila noted that several residents contacted the Council about “801 Day” and conversations
have been happening along with researching what can be done. It was mentioned that “801 Day” was
not uncommon.
DISPOSITIONS OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: None.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Council Member Gartin noted that the Police Department has a 90%
approval rating.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to adjourn the meeting at 8:09 p.m.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF
THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA FEBRUARY 3, 2022
CALL TO ORDER: The Special Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor
John Haila at 5:15 p.m. on February 3, 2022, in the City Council Chambers in City Hall, 515 Clark
Avenue, pursuant to law. Present were Council Members Gloria Betcher, Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen,
Amber Corrieri, Tim Gartin, Rachel Junck, and Anita Rollins. Ex officio Member Trevor Poundstone
was also present.
FY 2022/23 BUDGET PROPOSALS:
Transit System. Transit Director Barb Neal stated that the proposed budget was approved by the
Transit Board at its December meeting. The challenges of 2020 had continued into 2021 and 2022.
CyRide is gradually seeing more passengers return to riding the bus. For FY 2022/23 staff will
continue to work on rebuilding the large ridership base. It was noted that about $1.4 million of
federal funding is tied to high ridership and operational efficiencies. Director Neal mentioned that
over the past two years ridership patterns have shifted significantly due to changes in work patterns
and education offerings. Ridership is about 65% to 70% of pre-pandemic levels, and while ridership
is projected to increase in 2022/23, staff will continue to see ridership levels that are below normal.
Historically, ridership has mirrored what is happening at ISU; as enrollment has declined so has the
ridership. Ms. Neal explained that about 93% of the riders are ISU students and CyRide is projecting
ridership in 2022/23 to be about 3.5 million passengers.
A slide showing the projected revenues was displayed. CyRide was fortunate to receive a timely
influx of one-time federal funding. CyRide was able to spread the funding over two years. The FY
2022/23 represents an overall increase of 3% over last year’s budget. CyRide requested $2,078,474
or 14% from the City. Ms. Neal highlighted a Capital Improvement Project where CyRide will be
replacing 12 diesel buses with newer vehicles that are less expensive to operate and have
significantly cleaner emissions. CyRide was able to leverage grant funding to replace eight of the
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vehicles using a Volkswagen Settlement Grant, which lowered the local match to 3% for the funding
partners.
Transit Fixed Route expenditures will increase by 3.1% due to wages and benefits. Hiring and
training of part-time drivers has been a challenge for CyRide, which has led to increases in overtime
and training costs.
Dial-A-Ride. CyRide has been working with HIRTA to help close the transportation gap for seniors
or people with disabilities. Staff had worked in coordination with HIRTA to raise awareness of the
Dial-A-Ride service and have shifted eligible users on to the service. Ridership was trending down
prior to the pandemic, but ridership is anticipated to return to the 2015 levels.
Council Member Gartin said during the CIP discussion it was mentioned that the batteries for the
electric buses would cost a lot and he wanted to know if CyRide has thought about how they are
going to pay for any replacement batteries. Director Neal clarified that the price of the battery is
typically $400,000; however, CyRide is getting buses from a manufacturer where they have already
negotiated a price of $200,000 and were guaranteed that the buses will have 80% battery life for the
next six years. Ms. Neal noted staff will continue to look at future grants to help pay for battery
replacements.
Council Member Rollins inquired if CyRide still had a program where ISU students with the
appropriate license are hired to drive the buses, and if so, if the number of students is about the same
as previous years. Director Neal said that CyRide trains the drivers and pays for them to get their
CDL license.
Mayor Haila noted that there was a huge decline in ridership and wanted to know if the trend was
the same across the nation. Ms. Neal stated that when ridership levels were at 6.7 million that was
due to the highest enrollment ever at ISU. She didn’t believe ISU would have those high numbers
again.
Council Member Gartin mentioned that the City has an aggressive Climate Action Goal and will
require everyone to think about how cars are being utilized and will encourage citizens to take their
bike or use CyRide. He asked if CyRide has thought of ways to help with the Climate Action Goal.
Director Neal explained that, by looking at the Demand Response Software, it will bring an
opportunity to capture people who want to try the bus, but are nervous about trying it. Regarding the
Climate Action Plan, CyRide has spoken with the consultants and given them an update on CyRide.
The consultants were receptive to help make changes.
Council Member Betcher asked how CyRide 2.0 was going. Director Neal explained that CyRide
2.0 started and then the pandemic happened and ridership has shifted, but she is not sure if it was due
to CyRide 2.0 or due to the pandemic. Once ridership starts to stabilize, staff will look to see what
else needs to be done.
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Council Member Junck inquired if CyRide had considered fare-free ridership for the entire
community, instead of just ISU students. Director Neal explained that the City Council had approved
a fare-free summer a few years ago, and it was successful. The Transit Board was presented with the
idea of looking at fare-free as a community and what it would cost and will be looking at that
information.
City Council. Assistant City Manager Brian Phillips noted that this has been a year of transition. On
January 22, 2022, the City Council met for a Goal-Setting Retreat. Staff will bring back to City
Council the recommended tasks and a final look at the City Council goals. A few slides were shown
highlighting recognition and special events throughout the year.
City Manager. Assistant City Manager Brian Phillips explained that the City’s response to COVID
has covered a lot of the work that needed to be done. Mr. Phillips highlighted all the major projects
supported in Ames by the City Manager’s Office. Another responsibility of the City Manager’s
Office is to staff seven of the 19 Boards and Commissions. He indicated that, later in 2022 or early
2023, the City Manager’s Office will begin the recruitment process for a Management Analyst.
City Clerk. City Clerk Diane Voss highlighted the main source of revenue comes from beer and
liquor licenses and it totaled only $16,563 last fiscal year, which was significantly less than the over
$70,000 that is normally received. The loss of revenue was due to the Alcoholic Beverages Division
(ABD) response to COVID, which was to delay processing the applicant’s electronic bank transfers.
Ms. Voss indicated that ABD will be collecting the past revenue when an establishment renews its
license. Many of the services provided by the City Clerk’s Office were summarized. The City
Clerk’s budget for FY 2022/23 showed a decrease of 1.2%.
Council Member Betcher asked about the fluctuation in the budget for the File Management System
(FMS). Ms. Voss stated that a major upgrade was currently underway with FMS, and it will take
about three years to accomplish the update.
Public Relations. Public Relations Officer Susan Gwiasda read the Mission Statement. She
explained the Media Services is part of Public Relations. She relies a lot on part-time staff as well
as assistance from the Print Shop. She mentioned that the Public Relations office works on press
releases, newsletters, social media, website, public education/speaking/tours, recognition events,
outreach events, and print shop collaboration. She highlighted several events that were held in 2021
and what events are coming up in 2022.
Media Production Services. Bill Gebhart explained that there has been a continued increase in use
of videos across departments (training, promos, boards and commissions, recruitments). He indicated
that social media algorithms are favoring videos. Staff is exploring other areas of
communications/media and maybe bringing back some of the old programs, but making them more
current. In the budget, there is a need to repair/upgrade equipment, but the one biggest need is staff.
Council Member Rollins asked about the use of drones. Mr. Gebhart noted there are two drones, and
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currently there are two drone pilots within the City.
Legal Services. City Attorney Mark Lambert summarized the services provided by the Legal
Department. He highlighted what the Legal Services Department does, and reviewed the budget
allocations to four main items: Personal Services, Internal Services, Commodities, and Contractual.
The number of new legal matters that were opened averaged 500 a year. Mr. Lambert noted that this
year there have been around 40 property appeals; normally they average around 15 a year.
Human Resources. Human Resources Director Bethany Ballou presented the budget for the
Department. She noted that staff continued to have a COVID-19 response. Human Resources was
tasked with all the policy documentation for all COVID concerns. Ms. Ballou mentioned that
recruitment activities have increased with approximately 182 recruitments in FY 2020/21. She noted
that the 182 recruitments were not all new recruitments, but some recruitments may have been run
more than once. Of the 182 recruitments, there were 3,100 applications received and they are seeing
fewer and fewer applicants for each position. Staff has continued to provide different employee
training opportunities, that have been mixed with some in-person and some virtual.
Diversity and Inclusion. All employees were provided training and the training was well received
by employees. A Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coordinator position has been added to the budget
and the recruitment will start sometime in the Spring.
Risk Management. Risk Manager Bill Walton provided information on the different City of Ames
Liability Insurance and Property Insurance claims. The Liability Program has remained about the
same each year; however, the Property Insurance is becoming more expensive.
Health Insurance Management. Human Resources Officer Krista Hammer said that the City’s main
service objective has been to keep rate increases below 10%. For FY 2022/23 the projections
indicated a need to increase the existing health insurance premium rates by 9.7%; however, there are
very high reserves in the Health Insurance Fund balance and will use approximately $289,429 along
with the 7% increase to premium rates starting July 1, 2022. Health Expenditures for FY 2022/23
were mentioned.
Ms. Hammer indicated there was a new initiative that was started called “It’s Okay Not to be Okay.”
The poster provided to departments provides CICS Mobile Response contact information, programs
that NAMI offers, Suicide Prevention Lifeline, and Veterans Crisis Line, as well as how to reach the
Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Wellness & Health Care Initiatives. Health Promotion Coordinator Andrea Cardenas mentioned that
the Health Promotion Program and services are funded through the Health Insurance Fund. For the
FY 2022/23 budget, they are asking to expand online wellness resources. She highlighted that there
was a 28% cost increase for flu vaccinations, but still had a high rate of participation. COVID-19
vaccinations were also offered to employees this year the City.
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Council Member Rollins stated that many businesses and organizations have found that working
remotely has become an option and wanted to know if the City will offer any remote working option,
or would it not work. Ms. Ballou stated that some employees were able to work remotely while the
City was closed to the public; however, not every position can work from home.
Planning. Planning and Housing Director Kelly Diekmann provided an overview of Planning
Services, which includes Current Planning, Long-Range/Policy Planning, and Administrative
Services (shared with the Public Works and Fire Departments). Staff supports three Boards and
Commissions (Planning and Zoning Commission, Zoning Board of Adjustment, and Historic
Preservation Commission). A chart was shown indicating how much time is spent on Planning
activities in eight different categories.
Under Current Planning, there was a steady number of Site Development Plan applications and staff
is anticipating an average of 92 units in FY 2022/23. Staff is pushing for a different variety of single-
family homes and the use of the new PUD Overlay will help. There were no new apartment
developments approved in 2021, including senior housing. Commercial/Industrial planning was
projected to follow recent trends and buildout of existing areas. The Planning Division is going to
institute more online submittals, which will be more efficient for applicants, and will provide a cost
savings for large projects on printing costs. It was recommended to propose an average 10% fee
increase on major permit types. Director Diekmann noted that the Zoning Enforcement Officer is
currently the Building Official, but that is going to change to the Planning Director. Mr. Diekmann
reviewed the upcoming projects and noted that the budget for outside consultants for planning
studies and Council projects is $80,735.
Administrative Services - Staff includes five positions. One the position of Supervisor has been
vacant for about half a year. They are currently working on recruiting for that position. Staff from
Administrative Services covers multiple Boards and Commissions. One major accomplishment was
staff completing the transition to online building permit applications.
City-Wide Affordable Housing. Housing Coordinator Vanessa Baker-Latimer reviewed the
activities of the City-Wide Affordable Housing programs. She also reviewed the activities that the
City-Wide Housing Program covered in FY 2021/22. Ms. Baker-Latimer also noted the activities
that will be undertaken in 2022/23.
Community Development Block Grant. Ms. Baker-Latimer advised that the City received its 17th
allocation of CDBG funding for 2021/22 in the amount of $599,177, not including 2020/21 rollover
funds or 2021/22 Program Income, which totaled approximately $426,522. In addition, the budget
included $250,000 of General Obligation Bonds that were committed to CDBG projects. Ms. Baker-
Latimer highlighted several activities that were done in FY 2021/22. Of importance was the
completion of approximately 90% of the infrastructure for the Baker Subdivision. It was noted that
the FY 2021/22 CDBG allocation for the City of Ames has not yet been announced; however, for
budgeting purposes, the FY 2022/23 CDBG allocation of $599,177 is being projected. The Annual
Action Plan is to be submitted to the Department of Housing and Urban Development on or before
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May 17, 2022, if funding has been announced.
HOME Program. Ms. Baker-Latimer announced that the City was awarded is the fourth allocation
of HOME funds in the amount of $350,543. She noted that the City’s allocation has continued to
decrease. HOME requires a 25% local match contribution. The City had allocated $250,000 of
General Obligation Bonds toward the infrastructure improvements for 321 State Avenue that will
count as the local match for the first three years. HOME also requires that 15% of the annual
allocation be set aside for certified Community Housing Development Organizational (CHDO). The
FY 2022/23 allocation has not yet been announced; however, for budgeting purposes, the same
amount as last year’s allocation of $350,543 is being projected.
CDBG/IEDA CARES Program. In 2020/21 the City had received $710,696 in CDBG CARES
funding. To date, approximately 162 households have been assisted through one or all three
programs. Largest assistance has been for rent of approximately $396,000. In 2020/21 the City was
eligible to receive $604,386 in round two of the CDBG CARES funding. The application for the next
round of funds is anticipated to occur in the 2022/23 program year.
CARES/HOMEARP Program. As part of this Act, grant funds were allocated to local governments
that qualified for HOME Investment Partnerships Program allocations for FY 2021. The funding is
to provide housing, services, and shelter to individuals experiencing homeless and other assist low
and moderate-income households with incomes that are at 80% or below the Ames Metropolitan
Statistical Area. The City was awarded $1,269,248 in ARP funding. Of this amount 15% can be used
for program administration. The City’s 2021/22 Annual Action Plan will have to be amended once
a Program Allocation Plan has been created. The deadline for the expenditures of these funds is
September 30, 2030.
Council Member Betcher asked if the funds with the 2030 deadline have any potential to be used to
offset costs that might be associated with the Climate Action Plan that could affect low-to moderate
income individuals in the community and their homes. Ms. Baker-Latimer mentioned it was a
possibility.
The Mayor asked if Prairie Fire doesn’t get LIHTC credits could ARP funds be dedicated in the same
amount that Prairie Fire is applying for the tax credits. Ms. Baker-Latimer noted that staff had that
discussion the other day. The State of Iowa has around $20 million of ARP money to fund the second
round of applications and Ms. Baker-Latimer was hopeful that the City would get awarded more
money, but it will depend on the guidelines.
Conclusion. City Manager Steve Schainker stated that he was proud of all the accomplishments that
were made over the past year and the quality of City staff. He highlighted what decisions would need
to be made at the next City Council meeting.
Assistant City Manager Deb Schildroth pointed out that the ASSET volunteers are requesting that
the unallocated funds of $11,652 be set aside for housing services.
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Mayor Haila inquired how the Council should handle The Bridge Home. Ms. Schildroth mentioned
that on Page 3 of the ASSET Report that was handed out to the Council, the ASSET volunteers are
recommending sequestering a total allocation of $245,684 (City’s portion is $144,020 for a 20%
increase) for The Bridge Home until staff can review more information.
DISPOSITIONS OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: None.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Council Member Betcher wanted to know about the potential for
renaming the Ames Municipal Airport after J. Herman Banning, who was an African American pilot
from Ames. He was the first black man in the nation to receive a commercial pilot’s license. She
noted that Mr. Schainker was going to check with the Traffic Engineer to see if the name change
could happen and what it would cost to make that change. It was discussed that there was an option
to name a terminal after Mr. Banning.
The Mayor said that if the City starts renaming facilities after people, it needs to have a
policy/criteririon in place. He recommended that the Council look at developing a policy.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Junck, to adjourn the meeting at 8:08 p.m.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
_________________________________________________________________
Amy L. Colwell, Deputy City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
__________________________________
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk
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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA FEBRUARY 8, 2022
The Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor John Haila at 5:16 p.m.
on February 8, 2022, in the City Council Chambers in City Hall, 515 Clark Avenue, pursuant to law.
Present were Council Members Gloria Betcher, Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen, Amber Corrieri, Tim
Gartin, Rachel Junck, and Anita Rollins. Ex officio Member Trevor Poundstone was also present.
FY 2021/22 BUDGET WRAP-UP:
PUBLIC ART COMMISSION (PAC): Assistant City Manager Brian Phillips advised that the
Public Art Commission is requesting $46,000 in funding for the next fiscal year, which matches the
current year allocation.
ARTS FUNDING (COTA): Assistant City Manager Brian Phillips stated the Commission on The
Arts (COTA) had prepared its FY 2022/23 funding recommendations. The City Council authorized
COTA to allocate $216,470 for the next fiscal year, which is a $7,263 decrease from the budgeted
amount for the current FY 2021/22. The decrease is due to the City Council authorizing a substantial
amount in the current year for a one-time COVID-19 relief for arts agencies. Of the $216,470
authorized by City Council, COTA recommended an allocation of $206,470 directly to agencies for
FY 2022/23 annual grants and reserving $10,000 for spring and fall Special Project Grants. Mr.
Phillips noted that two Commission Members were present for any questions, Tom Lockhart and
David Detlefs.
OUTSIDE FUNDING REQUESTS: Assistant City Manager Brian Phillips explained that, for this
year’s requests, City Council had authorized an increase of $277,659 (20%), which covers the
funding requests and the operational requests from various organizations plus the funding that is set
aside for reimbursing the Parking Fund when there are district-wide free parking days due to events.
The total amount excludes $15,000 that was requested by the Ames Economic Development
Commission (AEDC) for workforce initiatives. The AEDC request would come out of the
Hotel/Motel Fund because it is an Economic Development Initiative. Staff has reviewed the requests
and once funding is approved, Contracts will be generated to the agencies. This process will happen
in the Spring and will be brought back to Council at that time.
HUMAN SERVICES FUNDING (ASSET): Assistant City Manager Deb Schildroth pointed out
that three ASSET volunteers were available for any questions: Ed Gillot, Becky Harker, and Jen
Schill.
Ms. Schildroth stated that the Council had revised the ASSET priorities in August and approved
$1,729,180 in December, which was an 8% increase over the FY 2021/22 allocations. The ASSET
volunteers approved all recommendations during its January 20, 2022, meeting. The
recommendations were posted on the ASSET website on January 21, 2022, and agencies were
notified via email. There were a few first-time requests for City funding, which were NAMI’s Family
and Peer Education Service, NAMI’s Wellness Center, and YSS’s Service Coordination. There were
increases in requests from daycare agencies to help address increases in staff wages for recruitment
and retention purposes and increases in rent and utility assistance as well as food pantry services. Ms.
Schildroth commented that there were significant increases for housing services provided by The
Bridge Home.
Council Member Gartin asked for more information regarding The Bridge Home’s request. Ms.
Schildroth commented that The Bridge Home request for all funders was for $835,000. The City’s
portion of the request was $375,000. The big bump for the request from The Bridge Home was for
the Emergency Shelter and Transitional Living Services. She noted that during the hearing with The
Bridge Home, the volunteers had several questions. Ms. Schildroth stated that the volunteers noticed
that The Bridge Home had not requested any emergency funding from United Way. Historically,
United Way has been asked for funding from The Bridge Home and provided it. She mentioned that
The Bridge Home said they did not ask for any help from United Way for emergency funding
because United Way changed the way it issues funding. United Way now uses the draw-down
method of funding and that is hard for The Bridge Home. She mentioned that during The Bridge
Home’s hearing, there was not enough time to answer all the volunteers’ questions. The volunteers
had voiced concerns regarding the amount of The Bridge Homes request and how more information
needed to be clarified. The volunteers sent their additional questions to The Bridge Home after the
hearing. A concern was raised about emergency services being met in the community because The
Bridge Home had mentioned being full at the shelter and were only able to reserve seven hotel rooms
within its budget. The decision the volunteers arrived at was for the City to request an increase in
emergency services for $92,927, but to sequester those funds until the volunteers get more
information from The Bridge Home. Any remaining funding would be set aside for housing services
in case any additional funding is needed for that purpose.
Council Member Gartin inquired about shelter services and what appears to be a shift in focus of The
Bridge Home. He commented that Marshalltown and Boone have closed its facilities and with those
closings it shifts more of a responsibility to the City of Ames. Mr. Gartin asked if The Bridge Home
was committed to providing emergency residence support in the future. Ms. Schildroth stated if The
Bridge Home continues to provide services it will be on a very limited basis and will be with a strict
budget. She noted that it used to be that people would stay within emergency services for two weeks.
Now more time is being spent on individuals to access their needs (jobs, mental health, living
situation), and this is causing individuals to stay longer in emergency services. Mr. Gartin stated he
was supportive of ASSET’s recommendation, but going forward, this will present a challenge to the
Council on how to provide the best care for those individuals who need help.
City Manager Schainker noted that what was presented for Public Art, COTA, ASSET, and the
Outside Funding Requests is included in the budget, and if the budget is approved, the
recommendations are already included.
PUBLIC INPUT ON CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN (CIP) AND OPERATING
BUDGET: Mayor Haila opened public input.
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Lauris Olson, 1705 Buchanan Drive, Ames, stated she is the President of Home Allies. She noted
that she had sent out an email earlier to the Council letting them know Home Allies was under a time
constraint. She pointed out that she would still like to make a case that the Home Allies project falls
under State Auditor Sand’s criteria for Economic Development, specifically retention of
jobs/income. Ms. Olson explained for the lower-wage fields, it is necessary to retain existing slots
in specific industries. She stated there are several businesses that have to change their hours due to
lack of staffing. Ms. Olson mentioned that childcare is a huge item on everyone’s list, and she stated
that one reason there has been difficulty in filling childcare slots is because of the difficulty that low-
wage earners also have to find housing they can afford within the City of Ames. Ms. Olson said that
low-wage earners need to have availability of reliable transportation. The Home Allies project is on
a major bus route and has stops very close to it. She noted that Home Allies can’t use tax abatement
because they are already going to ask to have the property taxes waived as a nonprofit. Ms. Olson
explained that Home Allies doesn’t qualify for any of the City’s HOME or CDBG programs. Her
project is targeted for people who may not qualify for Section 8 housing and the same rules for
Section 8 are used for HOME funds. She would like the Council to consider Home Allies under
Economic Development.
Richard Deyoe, 505-8th Street, #2, Ames, said the City doesn’t charge taxes for churches. He
mentioned that when he first moved to Ames, he asked people to spend the day with him; however,
one church would not allow him to continue to frequent the church. When Mr. Deyoe had nothing
to say regarding City business, he was asked to sit down.
Sarah Dvorsky, 304 Main Street, Ames, said she was present on behalf of Ames Main Street. She
explained that in November 2021, Ames Main Street had presented a variety of streetscape items that
need repaired and/or replaced and had asked the City for funding to help beautify Downtown. Ames
Main Street appreciated the past support of Council and is looking forward to seeing great things
happen Downtown.
Public input was closed by Mayor Haila when no one else came forward to speak.
AMENDMENTS TO THE 2022-27 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN (CIP): Moved by
Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to approve the 2022-27 Capital Improvements Plan (CIP).
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
AMENDMENTS TO FY 2021/22 ADJUSTED BUDGET: Budget Manager Nancy Masteller
explained that when staff put together the Draft Budget, they did not include a transfer between the
Student Government Trust Fund to the Transit Operations Fund to cover the shortfall in its funding.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to add $462,745 to the revenue in the Transit
Operations fund and $462,745 to expenditures in the Transit Student Government Trust Fund to
reflect an additional transfer from the Transit Student Government Trust Fund to Transit Operations
to cover the shortfall in student funding for FY 2021/22.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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City Manager Steve Schainker referenced Page 317 of the Draft Budget and explained that it lists
$1 million for Council Priorities and $200,000 for Sustainability. To make it easier for staff and to
give the Council more flexibility, he recommended a motion to combine the amounts and put it
under the General Fund for a total of $1.2 million.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Betcher, to combine the $1 million in Council Priorities and
$200,000 for Sustainability and put it all in the General Fund for a total of $1.2 million.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adopt the Ames Main Street request for an
Amendment to the Budget in the amount $68,600.
Mr. Schainker stated the funding for the Ames Main Street request would come from the available
balance in the Hotel/Motel Tax fund.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to adopt the request from the Ames History Museum for
$150,000.
Mr. Schainker recommended having the funding come from the Hotel/Motel Tax Fund available
balance.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The Mayor asked about Home Allies’ request for $25,000 for acquisition/construction costs and
$24,552 for rent subsidies. Council Member Corrieri mentioned that she could get behind the capital
request, but was having a problem with the rental assistance piece. She explained that there is already
an established process, and it would be incredibly unfair to all the other agencies if the City were to
provide rental assistance money to fund the request outside of that process.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to amend the budget to provide $25,000 to Home
Allies for the proposed construction cost.
Mr. Schainker recommended that the funding come out of Council Priorities.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to add to the budget an allocation of $30,000 to
continue the Small Art Grant Pilot Program for another year.
Council Member Corrieri stated that the Council had allocated $10,000 last year, but she didn’t
believe all the money had been drawn down yet. She explained that she was supportive of the
motion, and wondered if the Council should budget the money, but not do anything with the funds
until the Council has determined if the first year of the Small Art Grant Pilot Program was
successful. Assistant City Manager Brian Phillips indicated that there were four or five Contracts
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done and a couple of those were completed; however, the others are still pending. Each of the
Awardees has until June 30, 2022, to complete their projects. He mentioned that it may be beneficial
to wait until the beginning of the next fiscal year before the Council kicked off another round of
funding. This would give the Council the opportunity to get a report back on either on the success
of the Program or any issues. Mr. Schainker recommended appropriating the funds, but to not release
the funds until a report has been received. Council Member Betcher agreed with waiting until next
fiscal year, but wanted to make sure the funding was set aside to continue the Program. Mr.
Schainker suggested that the $30,000 come from the General Fund available balance.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Mr. Schainker referenced Page 292 of the Draft Budget for the Hotel/Motel Tax Fund. His
recommendation was that, in the 2021/22 adjusted column there is $125,000 earmarked for an
Internet Improvement Study. He asked the Council to allocate $75,000 of the $125,000 to update the
City’s website, and leave the remaining $50,000 for any other future improvements.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Junck, to take $75,000 from the available balance of
$125,000 for internet improvements and allocate it to update/improve the City’s website, and leave
the $50,000 balance for future improvements.
Council Member Gartin said he was fine with the motion, but asked if $50,000 was enough to do
the Internet Improvement Study. Mr. Schainker stated that the large balance was to see about the City
having its own internet service, which the Council had decided not to do, but the $50,000 could be
used for a different study to look at ways to improve the private sector partners to cover gaps.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to approve the Adjusted Budget for FY 2021/22, as
amended, including interfund transfers.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
AMENDMENTS TO PROPOSED FY 2022/23 BUDGET: Moved by Rollins, seconded by
Betcher, to authorize the reservation of $11,652 in unused ASSET budgeted funds for additional
needs that may arise in FY 2022/23.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to approve the Proposed Budget for FY 2022/23, as
amended, including interfund transfers.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
SET PUBLIC HEARING DATE TO ADOPT A MAXIMUM CITY PROPERTY TAX LEVY
FOR FY 2022/23: Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Junck, to set February 22, 2022, as the date of
public hearing to adopt a Maximum Property Tax Levy for FY 2022/23.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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Mayor Haila recessed the meeting at 6:10 pm and reconvened it at 6:14 pm.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
PROCLAMATION FOR “CHINESE NEW YEAR:” The Mayor proclaimed February 1, 2022,
as “Chinese New Year,” and encouraged citizens to join individuals and families in Ames and
worldwide in welcoming the Year of the Tiger with celebrations culminating with the Lantern
Festival on February 15, 2022.
Accepting the Proclamation was Dr. Chen, member of the Ames Human Relations Commission, and
several members of the community. He thanked the Mayor and the Council along with the
community for including diversity, equity, and inclusion into the City of Ames.
CONSENT AGENDA: Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Junck, to approve the following
items on the Consent Agenda.
1.Motion approving payment of claims
2.Motion approving Minutes of Special City Council Meetings held January 18, 2022; and
January 22, 2022; and Regular City Council Meeting held January 25, 2022
3.Motion approving Report of Change Orders for period January 16 - 31, 2022
4.Motion certifying Civil Service candidates
5.Motion approving ownership update for Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service and
Sunday Sales - Buffalo Wild Wings, 400 South Duff Avenue
6.Motion approving ownership updated for Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit,
Class C Beer Permit (carry-out beer) and Sunday Sales - Wal-Mart Supercenter #4256, 534
South Duff Avenue
7.Motion approving renewal of the following Beer Permits, Wine Permits and Liquor Licenses:
a.Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit, Class C Beer Permit (carry-out beer)
and Sunday Sales - Wal-Mart Supercenter #4256, 534 South Duff Avenue
b.Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service and Sunday Sales - Buffalo Wild Wings, 400
South Duff Avenue
c.Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit, Class C Beer Permit (carry-out beer)
and Sunday Sales - goPuff, 615 S Dayton Ave
d.Class B Permit with Sunday Sales - Time to Roll, 2801 Grand Ave., Suite 1290
e.Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service and Sunday Sales - Noir, 405 Kellogg
8.RESOLUTION NO. 22-057 approving Revised Employee Recognition Programs Policy
9.RESOLUTION NO. 22-058 approving Amendment to Governmental 28E Agreement for
Combined Law Enforcement Investigations of Controlled Substances
10.RESOLUTION NO. 22-059 approving Amendment to Professional Services Agreement for
2019/20 Storm Water Erosion Control Program (Ioway Creek, 6th Street to 13th Street)
11.RESOLUTION NO. 22-060 approving Amendment to Professional Services Agreement for
2019/20 Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation (Basin 10)
12.RESOLUTION NO. 22-061 waiving enforcement of prohibition of motorized vehicles in Ada
Hayden Heritage Park for the Ames Triathlon on June 26, 2022 from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
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13.RESOLUTION NO. 22-062 approving preliminary plans and specifications for CyRide Battery
Electric Bus Facility Improvements; setting March 9, 2022, as bid due date and March 22, 2022,
as date of public hearing
14.RESOLUTION NO. 22-063 approving contract and bond for 2021/22 Pavement Restoration -
Slurry Seal Program
15.RESOLUTION NO. 22-037 approving contract and bond for City Hall Parking Lot Expansion
16.RESOLUTION NO. 22-038 approving contract and bond for 2021/22 Asphalt Street Pavement
Improvements (Opal Dr., Opal Cir., Harcourt Dr., Turquoise Cir., and Top-O-Hollow Rd.)
17.RESOLUTION NO. 22-039 approving contract and bond for 2021/22 Seal Coat Street
Pavement Improvements & 2021/22 Water System Improvements Program - Stafford Avenue
(E. 13th Street - South End)
18.RESOLUTION NO. 22-040 approving contract and bond for 2021/22 Traffic Signal Program
(University Blvd. & S. 4th St.)
19.RESOLUTION NO. 22-041 approving contract and bond for 2020/21 South Dayton
Improvements
20.RESOLUTION NO. 22-042 approving Change Order No. 5 to Peterson Contractors, Inc., for
South Grand Avenue Extension in the amount of $24,466.20
21.Steam Turbine No. 8 Parts Procurement project:
a.RESOLUTION NO. 22-043 accepting completion of contract with Alin Machining
Company, Inc. (Power Plant Services)
b.RESOLUTION NO. 22-044 accepting completion of contract with Argo Turboserve
Corporation
c.RESOLUTION NO. 22-045 accepting completion of contract with Mechanical Dynamics
& Analysis LLC (MD&A)
22.RESOLUTION NO. 22-046 approving completion of CyRide 2020 HVAC Project
23.RESOLUTION NO. 22-047 approving completion of CyRide 2020 Interior Improvements
Project
24.RESOLUTION NO. 22-048 accepting completion of 2020/21 Asphalt Street Pavement
Improvements (McKinley Drive, Jensen Avenue, and Luther Drive)
25.RESOLUTION NO. 22-049 accepting completion of 2018/19 Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation
(Siphon)
26.RESOLUTION NO. 22-050 approving Final Plat for Auburn Trail Subdivision, First Addition
and accept sidewalk and street tree deferral
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motions/Resolutions declared carried/adopted unanimously, signed by the
Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
PUBLIC FORUM: Mayor Haila opened Public Forum.
Grant Olson, 3812 Ontario Street, Ames, stated that he wanted to discuss a few ways to make the
City of Ames a little better. He noted that Friendship Ark purchased a home on Fletcher Boulevard
near Bloomington. Mr. Olson pointed out that he does not represent Friendship Ark, but he wanted
to advocate for the home’s residents. The residence has a mix of people with development and
intellectual disabilities. The residents are unable to drive and have to rely on walking to access
7
CyRide. Last year, parents of the residents and Friendship Ark leadership had concerns about the
safety of the residents when crossing Bloomington at Fletcher to access the closest CyRide. The
crossing only had signs, at that time, for Bloomington motorists. Mr. Olson said a request for safety
improvements was made, and Public Works consulted a guidance document from the Federal
Highway Administration. He mentioned that the Public Works staff decided to add crosswalk paint.
He said that adding paint helped, but felt more needed to be done at the intersection. The curb-to-
curb distance is about 40 feet at the crosswalk and about 26 feet is needed for two travel lanes. He
pointed out that vulnerable pedestrians are exposed to automobiles for about 14 feet. Mr. Olson
commented that a safety improvement, that is relatively cheap, would be to add delineators. His
proposal is to install some white delineators that would form two travel lanes of normal width at the
crossing. Mr. Olson indicated that crossing safety is also influenced by speed limits and terrain. He
recommended adjusting the speed limit further to the west. Improving walkability has benefits for
not only Friendship Ark residents, but for all residents who live near Bloomington and Fletcher. Mr.
Olson indicated that walkability provides freedom and independence especially for children and
older adults. Improving street design can increase the wellbeing of those age groups. Mr. Olson
asked that City staff take action on improving walkability, and to not wait for the street to be
reconstructed. He indicated there are cheap fixes that could be put in place at Bloomington and
Fletcher until more permanent design changes could follow. He indicated he had an example of a
configuration that he would be happy to email to staff.
When no one else came forward to speak, the Mayor closed public forum.
ENDORSING IOWA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY APPLICATION FOR
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR BERDEX USA WITH LOCAL MATCH IN THE FORM
OF A GRANT: Finance Director Duane Pitcher stated this is a straightforward application. The
business is a Netherlands-based company that builds trailers. This project would bring the
manufacturing of Berdex trailers to the former Caremoli site in Ames. Besides the manufacturing
of three types of livestock trailers, Ames will also be the Berdex USA headquarters.
The Mayor opened public comment.
Dylan Kline, Director of Business Development for the Ames Chamber of Commerce, explained that
the Berdex project is one that the Ames Economic Development Commission (AEDC) has been
working on to bring to the City of Ames. Mr. Kline indicated that the AEDC has already approved
its portion of the 20% local match.
Public comment was closed by the Mayor when no one else came forward to speak
Moved by Junck, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-051 endorsing the Iowa
Economic Development Authority Application for Financial Assistance for Berdex USA with local
match in the form of a grant.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
8
REVISED STORM DAMAGED TREE POLICY: Parks and Recreation Director Keith Abraham
indicated that after the derecho and the storm in the fall, staff had reviewed its Storm Damaged Tree
Cleanup Policy and noticed that there were several “housekeeping” items that needed to be done to
update the Policy. Director Abraham indicated there were two items that he wanted to mention to
the Council. The first was to change the amount of time to make a decision from 24 hours to 36
hours. He said that the reason for this change was to allow staff more time to evaluate the damage
thoroughly. The second was regarding the map of the City. He indicated that the current Policy states
that 50% of residential properties in four of seven “maintenance districts” must be affected for full
collection to be implemented. Those maintenance districts are no longer used by Public Works and
the City has grown since the map was originally done in 1998. A new Storm Debris Cleanup Areas
map was done that divided the City into eight areas and also allowed for future growth. It was
proposed that five of the eight areas must be affected for full collection to be implemented. Director
Abraham said that staff looks at the damage to residential properties and not commercial areas. He
mentioned another change was that The Volunteer Center is identified in the current Policy, but is
no longer in existence. The proposed change was to change the wording to “Volunteer
Organizations” will be contacted to help coordinate volunteers.
Council Member Betcher asked if the discrepancy in sizes on the map was due to the number of
residents that are in an area or done by topography. Director Abraham stated staff looked over the
creeks in the area, but did not count how many residences there were in each area.
Council Member Betcher said she was looking over the Policy and on the first page of the Policy,
she thought the “Full Collection in a Limited Area (2b)” was somewhere between full collection city-
wide and the intermediate City response. She asked why 2b didn’t have drop off points similar to
2A and 2C. She felt that 2A was more intense than 2C. Director Abraham stated that some of the
same items under 2A should be listed under 2b as well. He said if the Council adopted the Policy and
indicated that 2A should be under 2B as well, staff will make the change.
Council Member Rollins inquired about the drop-off sites and how staff would know if the debris
was from that area or if someone was just dumping their debris wherever they wanted to. Director
Abraham said there has to be some trust from the citizens, as the amount of resources and time it
would take to make that distinction would not be worth it.
The Mayor opened public input. It was closed when no one came forward to speak
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to approve the Revised Storm Damaged Tree Policy with
Amendment to add subsections 2, 3, and 4 from Item 2A to Item 2B.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
KINGSBURY’S SUBDIVISION, 5TH ADDITION: Planning and Housing Director Kelly
Diekmann explained that before the Council is a Minor Subdivision Final Plat. The property was
previously created through a Developer’s Agreement that allowed for deferral of SE 3rd Street
improvements. The property owner is proposing a Supplemental Development Agreement in
9
conjunction with the Final Plat to continue the terms of partial waiver of public improvements
approved with the 4th Addition. The partial waiver reassigns the SE 3rd Street improvements to
proposed Lot 3 of the 5th Addition. The owner plans development of a new carwash on Lot 1. Staff
is recommending approval as the request is consistent with the original intent of the Developer’s
Agreement, and the circumstances that lead staff to originally support the deferral are still the same.
Mayor Haila opened public comment and closed it when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Gartin, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-028 approving the
Supplemental Development Agreement for Kingsbury’s Subdivision, 5th Addition.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-029 approving the Final
Plat for Kingsbury’s Subdivision, 5th Addition.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes
STURGES SUBDIVISION, FIRST ADDITION (5019 HYDE AVENUE): Planning and Housing
Director Kelly Diekmann indicated that there were a number of parts to this proposal and it is a
unique request. The Subdivision includes Lot 1, for the existing Sturges home, and Lot A, to be
dedicated as a street right-of-way for Hyde Avenue. The proposed Subdivision is located adjacent
to the current City limits of Ames in the unincorporated area of Story County. The applicants
requested the City Council to approve the Minor Final Plat at this time, prior to the land being
annexed into the City. The deferral of the annexation is due to the timing of the Iowa Natural
Heritage Foundation’s (INHF) ability to acquire Outlot A with funding from a specified donor.
Although the current property abuts the City and can be annexed, the timing of annexation would
extend past the INHF’s deadline on its option to purchase the property and meet the donor’s
parameters. The applicant proposes to enter into an Agreement for future annexation based upon one
of two conditions, whichever occurs first. Annexation would occur either when 1) Outlot A is
replatted into a developable lot or 2) after March 1, 2024, at the City’s discretion. The Agreement
requires the owners to file the annexation application with the City prior to recording the Final Plat
so the City can act on the annexation in the future. Director Diekmann indicated that the division
does not trigger any street improvements or water/sewer improvements because the City already
completed those as part of the Hyde Avenue Street Assessment project. However, there are frontage
improvements for sidewalks expected with the division. This is a unique circumstance as the City
inspires to have a ten-foot trail constructed along Hyde Avenue and staff had reached an agreement
with the developer to the north of this site to be responsible for trail construction across the frontage
of this site. The INHF is requesting a waiver of the requirement to install sidewalks and post security
for its installation with the proposed subdivision. Director Diekmann mentioned that if the City
Council does not approve the waiver of sidewalk installation, they will need to defer action on the
Final Plat until a Sidewalk Agreement and financial security are provided with the Final Plat.
10
Mayor Haila opened public comment.
Ross Baxter, 505-5th Avenue, Suite 444, Des Moines, Iowa, stated he is with the Iowa Natural
Heritage Foundation. He commented that he appreciated the City Council’s consideration of the
project. Mr. Baxter felt this was a great space to add more green space for a growing residential
development.
Public comment was closed by Mayor Haila when no one else came forward to speak.
Moved by Rollins, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-052 approving the
Agreement for Annexation of Sturges Subdivision, First Addition (5019 Hyde Avenue).
Roll Call Vote: 5-0-1. Voting Aye: Beatty-Hansen, Betcher, Corrieri, Junck, Rollins. Voting Nay:
None. Abstaining due to conflict of interest: Gartin. Resolution declared adopted, signed by the
Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-053 approving the
waiver of sidewalk installation for Sturges Subdivision, First Addition (5019 Hyde Avenue).
Roll Call Vote: 5-0-1. Voting Aye: Beatty-Hansen, Betcher, Corrieri, Junck, Rollins. Voting Nay:
None. Abstaining due to conflict of interest: Gartin. Resolution declared adopted, signed by the
Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-054 approving the Final
Minor Plat for Sturges Subdivision, First Addition (5019 Hyde Avenue).
Roll Call Vote: 5-0-1. Voting Aye: Beatty-Hansen, Betcher, Corrieri, Junck, Rollins. Voting Nay:
None. Abstaining due to conflict of interest: Gartin. Resolution declared adopted, signed by the
Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
STAFF TO IMPLEMENT A TEMPORARY DOWNTOWN RESIDENTIAL OVERNIGHT
PARKING PERMIT FOR $25/MONTH: Traffic Engineer Damion Pregitzer said a request had
been received from Ames Main Street to help facilitate existing and potential future residents in the
Downtown area to have the means to park overnight. Mr. Pregitzer pointed out that the City does not
have a permit that is similar to this request. Currently, Downtown’s parking options are parking
metered spaces ($0.50/hour from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday), time-limited
free parking in the CDB lots, and 24-hour Reserve Parking Permits ($50/month). Under the proposed
permit, there would be a 15-hour period (6:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m.), seven days a week, in which
registered Downtown residents could use any public Downtown metered or parking lot stall for
overnight parking, excluding the Reserved stalls and Main Street stalls, for $25 per month. Mr.
Pregitzer stated that staff expects significant changes to parking in the Downtown area due to the
future Lincoln Way corridor development. With the potential for new structured parking in the CBD
lot, this program may need to change or cease altogether. Therefore, if approved, the Downtown
Residential Overnight Parking Permit Program should be considered temporary. Once a business
plan for the Downtown parking system is developed, staff will know the long-term viability of the
Program.
11
City Manager Steve Schainker pointed out that this proposed program does not exempt or eliminate
the Zoning Ordinance requirement of one parking space per residential dwelling unit for projects
with more than 18 units.
Council Member Betcher said that the Permit Program would allow parking in metered spaces or lot
spaces. She indicated that there is a business Downtown, Noir, and is in the Sheldon Munn building,
which has no available parking. Ms. Betcher wondered if this would cause parking issues along
Kellogg Avenue for Noir. Mr. Pregitzer stated that the proposal that staff was given from Ames Main
Street was to exclude Main Street due to restaurants and businesses along Main Street. He indicated
that concern also addresses the temporary nature of the Program and if there are a large amount of
complaints or conflicts, staff would need to come back to City Council with either an adjustment to
the Program or cancel it.
Mr. Schainker explained that the Program would be slightly disruptive to those who have the Permit
as they are going to have to move their cars out of the area if there is snow removal happening or if
there is a Special Event planned.
Council Member Rollins asked if any consideration was taken for citizens that work at night and
sleep during the day. Mr. Pregitzer said those individuals would be able to park in one of the lots.
Mayor Haila opened public comment.
Sarah Dvorksy, 304 Main Street, Ames, Executive Director of Ames Main Street, stated that staff
is excited for this opportunity. The proposed Overnight Parking Permit Program would allow an
opportunity for recruitment of new people to live Downtown, but also as retention for those who
currently live Downtown.
Daniel Oh, 3327 Goldenrod Circle, Ames, indicated he was a Director for Ames Main Street and has
a business Downtown. He said he wanted to answer a few questions that came up. Mr. Oh said that
one of the challenges for anyone who wants to add housing or wants to live there, is that there is no
certain place to park. Anyone currently Downtown has to do the “car shuffle” or park in residential
areas to the north. He said that the City has underutilized parking at night time and having the
proposed Overnight Parking Permit Program is a great way for the City to earn additional funding
and allow for safer places to park for the residents of Downtown. He indicated that when referring
to the question about Noir, people from the Sheldon Munn are already parking in the Downtown
spots. Mr. Oh believed people are going to want to park where they are able to walk quickly into one
of the businesses. He mentioned that the City also offers reserved parking; the City already offers
multiple options. The number one problem is that people don’t know where to park and this proposal
will help the community.
Public Input was closed when no one else came forward to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to direct staff to implement a temporary Downtown
12
Residential Overnight Parking Permit for $25/month, with limitations.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON PROPOSAL FOR THE CITY OF AMES TO LEASE ITS RIGHT, TITLE,
AND INTEREST TO PROPERTY LOCALLY KNOWN AS 205 SOUTH WALNUT, AMES,
TO HEARTLAND SENIOR SERVICES FOR A PERIOD OF 50 YEARS (CONTINUED
FROM JANUARY 11, 2022 AND JANUARY 25, 2022): City Attorney Mark Lambert stated that
the Council had directed staff to develop a long-term Lease Agreement with Heartland Senior
Services to lease the land at 205 South Walnut to them. Heartland Senior Services will demolish its
current building and will build a new building in the same location. Mr. Lambert indicated that there
was a change made this afternoon to the Contract that changed the $5 million insurance requirement
to $3 million.
The Mayor opened the public hearing and closed it when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-055 approving the
Agreement to lease 205 South Walnut to Heartland Senior Services for a period of 50 years.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-056 authorizing Heartland
Senior Services to demolish the City building at 205 South Walnut.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes
ORDINANCE ON PROPOSED TEXT AMENDMENT TO MODIFY THE PLANNED UNIT
DEVELOPMENT OVERLAY DISTRICT STANDARDS TO ALLOW FOR A SMALL
COMMERCIAL COMPONENT TO DISTRICTS: Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by
Corrieri, to pass on second reading an ordinance on a proposed Text Amendment to modify the
Planned Unit Development Overlay District standards to allow for a small commercial component
to districts.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
DISPOSITIONS OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: Mayor Haila noted that there were
three items on the list. The first item was a memo from Paul Tauke, City Forester providing a tree
planting summary in response to a citizen’s request for additional money and staff to plant more
trees.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen explained that it was mentioned in the memo from Mr. Tauke that
staff may eventually want to move from the 1:1 tree replacement ratio. It was recommended to wait
to discuss tree replacement options until after the climate action plan is approved as it may address
tree planting. Ms. Beatty-Hansen said that the City Council will keep this recommendation in the
back of their minds for future consideration.
13
The second item was a letter from Sue Ravenscroft regarding retail space inventories in the proposed
Lincoln Way Reinvestment District. Mayor Hails said that after hearing that no motions were made;
the Council will take Ms. Ravenscroft letter under advisement.
The last item was a memo from Traffic Engineer Damion Pregitzer regarding the stop sign control
plan for Sunset Ridge Subdivision. No action required as this was an update from Staff.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Ex officio Poundstone indicated that he is still working on the Local
Affairs Committee and is not sure when that will get passed.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen referred to Grant Olson’s earlier comments about the traffic control
at the crossing of Bloomington and Fletcher. She explained that staff had already looked into the area
and asked if the Council had received a report back yet. Assistant City Manager Brian Phillips stated
that Traffic Engineer Damion Pregitzer had mentioned to him that there is a pending referral
regarding the area, but if the Council wanted to, they could ask for Mr. Olson’s comments and
concerns to be incorporated into the referral. The Mayor asked when the referral might come back
to the Council. Mr. Phillips noted that there is a group of traffic referrals that staff is working on to
hopefully have to the Council by the end of the month; however, he is not sure if this area is in the
group that is being worked on.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Betcher, to incorporate Grant Olson’s request into the Report
that staff is currently working on.
Council Member Gartin mentioned that Mr. Olson made it clear he was not representing Friendship
Ark and felt it would be reasonable for staff to reach out to Friendship Ark to get its input. Mr.
Gartin asked Council Member Beatty-Hansen to accept a friendly amendment to include reaching
out to Friendship Ark for its input. Ms. Beatty-Hansen agreed.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Council Member Junck stated she had been thinking about Sue Ravenscroft’s letter and
Haverkamp’s request from last week and wanted to think about the vacant retail spaces and vacant
commercial spaces that the City of Ames has, especially in mixed-use buildings. Ms. Junck wanted
to think about better ways to use the properties, whether for smaller businesses, incubator space, or
affordable housing.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Rollins, to ask staff to find out where vacant or underutilized
commercial and/or retail spaces in mixed-use buildings are, through whatever resources needed, and
brainstorm what potential options are available to Council to help fill the commercial spaces.
Council Member Gartin said that the Council has a general expectation that when there are proposals
the Council gets them about a week in advance to think about what to do. Council Member Junck
stated from her perspective she felt her motion would help the Council with Haverkamp’s request
to not only be considering that one vacant retail space, but to also look to see where else it may be
14
happening in mixed-use buildings in the community. Mr. Gartin asked what all would be involved
to obtain that information. City Manager Steve Schainker mentioned that staff would need to reach
out to the Ames Chamber of Commerce for help or realtors to obtain that information.
Council Member Corrieri commented that the Council wouldn’t be able to change the use after the
fact unless a property owner requested to make a change. Council Member Beatty-Hansen stated they
couldn’t, but may possibly be able to incentivize.
Council Member Rollins stated that what the Council is hearing is that citizens are concerned about
the vacant commercial spaces across the City and the motion would give the Council an idea how
large of a problem there is or if there even is a problem.
Council Member Gartin asked to make a friendly amendment to also obtain longitudinal data. He
mentioned that he would like to see an incubator area where the City participates and would be a
great opportunity for start-ups. Council Member Betcher inquired if there was even the capability
to get longitudinal data considering no studies have been done before. Mr. Gartin said if there is
longitudinal data that would be great, but if not, that would be okay.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to get information from staff on some kind of
recommendation on how Council can set an expectation for the community on submitting budgetary
requests to the Council, and how the Council can address those requests in a consistent and fair
process.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Council Member Gartin stated that routinely there are long-term members of the community who
pass away and don’t necessarily bring it up, but tonight he wanted to mention the passing of Carole
Horowitz. He mentioned that she was a dynamic individual, community oriented, and set an example
of putting the priorities of the community and living for others ahead of her own self. Mr. Gartin
voiced his condolences to the family.
Council Member Betcher mentioned she didn’t bring up the renaming of the airport during the
budget process because staff is still working on getting a straight answer from the FAA about what
the costs would be.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, put on the agenda, soon, the question of whether
the Council should be a naming policy for municipal properties, similar to Parks & Recreation
Policy, and staff to bring back a policy to Council for consideration and adaptation.
Council Member Gartin asked which department would handle the motion and how much time
would be involved. Mr. Schainker indicated it would be done by the City Manager’s office as they
will see what the Parks & Recreation Department is doing and will use that as a template to create
15
a Renaming Policy for the Council. He didn’t think it would take a lot of staff time to prepare the
information.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adjourn the meeting at 7:21
p.m.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
______________________________________________________________________
Amy L. Colwell, Deputy City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
__________________________________
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk
16
REPORT OF
CONTRACT CHANGE ORDERS
Department
General Description Change Original Contract Total of Prior Amount this Change Contact
Public Works 2018/19 Sanitary
Rehabilitation (Siphon
Rehab)
/Electric
Services
Company
Flood Mitigation Project
Services for Unit 8 Turbine
Period:
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Item No. 4
+
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Item No. 5
+
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+
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Item No. 7
+
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Smart Choice
515.239.5133 non-emergency
Administration
fax
To: Mayor John Haila and Ames City Council Members
From: Lieutenant Heath Ropp, Ames Police Department
Date: February 10, 2022
Subject: Beer Permits & Liquor License Renewal Reference City Council Agenda
The Council agenda for February 22nd, 2022, includes beer permits and liquor license
renewals for:
•BN’C Fieldhouse (206 Welch Ave) - Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service &
Sunday Sales
•Coldwater Golf Links (1400 S Grand Ave) - Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service
& Sunday Sales
•Kum & Go #1113 (2801 E 13th St) - Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit,
Class C Beer Permit (carryout) and Sunday Sales
•Elks Lodge (522 Douglas) - Class A Liquor License with Outdoor Service & Sunday Sales
•Swift Stop #4 (1118 S Duff) - Class C Beer Permit with Class B Wine Permit & Sunday
Sales
•Swift Stop #5 (3218 Orion St) - Class C Beer Permit with Class B Wine Permit & Sunday
Sales
•Casey’s General Store #2905 (3612 Stange Rd) - Class E Liquor License with Class B
Wine Permit, Class C Beer Permit (carryout) & Sunday Sales
•Sam’s Club (305 Airport Rd) - Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit, Class C
Beer Permit (carryout) & Sunday Sales
A review of police records for the past 12 months found no liquor law violations for the
above locations. The Ames Police Department recommends the license renewal for the
above businesses.
Item No. 8
Smart Choice
515.239.5133 non-emergency
Administration
fax
cTo: Mayor John Haila and Ames City Council Members
From: Lieutenant Heath Ropp, Ames Police Department
Date: February 10, 2022
Subject: Beer Permits & Liquor License Renewal Reference City Council Agenda
The Council agenda for February 22nd, 2022, includes beer permits and liquor license
renewals for:
•Kum & Go #227 (2108 Isaac Newton Dr) - Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine
Permit, Class C Beer Permit (carryout) and Sunday Sales
A review of police records for the past 12 months found 1 liquor law violation. During a
compliance check on March 26th, 2021, an employee sold alcohol to a minor and was
cited accordingly. A follow-up compliance check was completed, and no violations were
recorded.
•Homewood Golf Course (401 E 20th St) - Special Class C Liquor License
A review of police records for the past 12 months found 1 liquor law violation. During a
compliance check on May 13th, 2021, an employee sold alcohol to a minor and was cited
accordingly. A follow-up compliance check was completed, and no violations were
recorded.
•The Spice Thai Cuisine (402 Main St) - Special Class C Liquor License
A review of police records for the past 12 months found 1 liquor law violation. During a
compliance check on April 22nd, 2021, an employee sold alcohol to a minor and was cited
accordingly. A follow-up compliance check was completed, and no violations were
recorded.
Item No. 8d, 8f, 8g and 8k
•Pizza Pit Extreme (207 Welch Ave) - Class B Beer with Sunday Sales
A review of police records for the past 12 months found 1 liquor law violation. During a
compliance check on April 16th, 2021, an employee sold alcohol to a minor and was cited
accordingly. A follow-up compliance check was completed, and no violations were
recorded.
The Police Department will continue to monitor the above locations by conducting
regular foot patrols, bar checks and by educating staff through training and quarterly
meetings. The Ames Police Department recommends license renewal for the above
businesses.
Caring People Quality Programs Exceptional Service
515.239.5105 main
5142 fax
Ave.
Ames.org
MEMO
TO: Members of the City Council
FROM: John A. Haila, Mayor
DATE: February 22, 2022
SUBJECT: Iowa State University Student Government Appointment to
Ames Transit Agency Board of Trustees
Due to the resignation of Natalia Rios Martinez from the Iowa State Student
Government, the Council needs to confirm appointment to fill this vacancy. I
have been notified that Kit Clayburn have been appointed by the ISU Student
Government to serve on the Board.
Therefore, I recommend that the City Council confirm the appointment of Kit
Clayburn to the Ames Transit Agency Board of Trustees.
JAH/alc
Item No. 9
1
ITEM # 10
DATE: 02/22/22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: REQUESTS FROM AMERICAN CAMPUS/CAMPUSTOWN STUDENT
APARTMENTS FOR SPRING CARNIVAL
BACKGROUND:
Campustown Student Apartments is proposing to host a celebration for current and
future tenants from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, April 15. This Spring Carnival will
consist of carnival games, food, and music. To facilitate this event, Campustown
Student Apartments has requested the following for Friday, April 15:
• Closure of Chamberlain Street from Welch Avenue to Stanton Avenue from
2:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• Closure of 19 on-street metered parking spaces and 11 parking spaces in
Campustown Lot Y from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on (estimated loss of $34.50
to the Parking Fund)
• A blanket Vending License ($50 license fee)
A Noise Permit has also been requested from the Police Department.
Staff has discussed safety considerations in detail with the event organizer including the
need to limit the number of attendees to a manageable size. Organizers expect
approximately 50-100 attendees. Organizers have provided staff with an Emergency
Safety Plan. Staff has also been informed that no alcohol will be permitted at this event.
Event organizers have informed staff that they will go door-to-door with the event
information and distribute event details to affected neighbors and the neighborhood
association prior to the City Council meeting. Staff has requested that the organizers
make neighbors aware that this event will be on the February 22 City Council agenda.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the requests from Campustown Student Apartments as indicated above,
but require payment for the lost parking meter revenue and the Vending License
($84.50 total)
2. Approve the requests from Campustown Student Apartments as indicated above,
and waive the requirement to reimburse for lost parking meter revenue and the
Vending License fee.
3. Direct staff to work with organizers to find an alternate location for the event.
4. Do not approve the requests.
2
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The event will take place during daylight hours and will not involve alcohol. Additionally,
the Ames Chamber of Commerce is supporting this event.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
ITEM # 11
DATE: 2/22/2022
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: PUBLIC HEARINGS AND NOTICE OF INTENT TO ISSUE $11,225,000
ESSENTIAL CORPORATE PURPOSE GENERAL OBLIGATION
BONDS, $700,000 GENERAL CORPORATE PURPOSE GENERAL
OBLIGATION BONDS FOR DOWNTOWN PLAZA, $350,000 GENERAL
PURPOSE GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS FOR FIRE STATION
IMPROVEMENTS, AND ASSOCIATED TAX LEVY FOR DEBT SERVICE
BACKGROUND:
The FY 2022/23 City Budget includes several General Obligation (G.O.) Bond-funded
capital improvements. A public hearing is required to authorize issuance of bonds and
the levy of property taxes for debt to be issued. The dollar amounts and corresponding
property tax levy for the planned G.O. bond issue is included as part of the FY 2022/23
budget.
The G.O. Bonds and debt service levy for the FY 2022/23 budget are based on projects
listed in the table below. Council authorization will be required later to approve the sale
of the bonds. Bonds are expected to be issued shortly after the start of the new fiscal
year.
Though the bonds will be combined in a single sale, the $700,000 to fund the downtown
plaza and $350,000 (rounded) for fire station concrete rehabilitation are general
corporate purpose issues subject to a reverse referendum and separate public hearings
are required. The City is limited to $700,000 in general corporate purpose bonds by
purpose of use and each use requires a separate hearing. The remainder bond issue is
qualified as essential corporate purpose, not subject to reverse referendum and can be
combined in a single public hearing in amount not to exceed $11,225,000.
On September 14, 2021, the City Council held a public hearing to issue general
obligation bonds not to exceed $21,200,000 to fund the construction of an indoor
aquatics center as part of reinvestment district urban renewal plan. The first
issue of bonds to fund the aquatic center will be included in the upcoming sale of
bonds, but no additional public hearing is needed.
Please note that in addition to the amount to fund the G.O. Bond-funded capital
projects, the amount not-to-exceed includes additional authorization to allow for
issuance costs and the option to sell our bonds at a premium over the par or face value
of bonds. In any case, debt will not be issued in an amount where debt service exceeds
the property tax levy included in the proposed budget.
The public hearings and pre-levy resolution will be required at the time of the budget
certification to levy property taxes for the bonds not yet issued. The pre-levy amount is
included as part of the total debt service property tax levy and is $1,511,628 of the total
taxes levied for debt service at $10,627,021.
The Capital Improvements Plan’s 2022/23 G.O. Bond issue includes the following:
Total G.O. Essential Corporate Purpose $11,124,560
Issuance Costs/Rounding 100,440
Grand Total – 2022/23 G.O. Issue $11,225,000
Fire Station 3 Concrete Rehabilitation $350,000
Downtown Plaza $700,000
Bond Hearing Already Held For:
Indoor Aquatic Center $6,192,512
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Set March 8, 2022 as the date of public hearing to authorize the issuance of
Essential Corporate Purpose General Obligation Bonds in an amount not to
exceed $11,225,000, a second hearing to authorize the issuance of General
Corporate Purpose General Obligation Bonds in an amount not to exceed
$700,000, and a third hearing to authorize issuance of General Purpose General
Obligation bonds for fire station improvements in an amount not to exceed
$350,000. After the hearings the Council can authorize the sale and associated
pre-levy resolution.
2. Reject or delay the public hearings, reduce the FY 2022/23 property tax levy, and
delay the capital projects. Rejection of the Essential Corporate Purpose Bonds
will prevent the City from completing the bond-funded projects reflected in the
CIP. Rejection of the General Corporate Purpose bonds will delay the Downtown
Plaza project.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Prior to the issuance of debt, state law requires that a public hearing be held and
associated pre-levy resolution be adopted. This is a required step in order to accomplish
the Council’s approved capital improvements for the upcoming fiscal year.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, thereby setting March 8, 2022 as the date of public hearing to
authorize the issuance of Essential Corporate Purpose General Obligation Bonds and
General Obligation Refunding Bonds in an amount not to exceed $11,225,000, a
second hearing to authorize the issuance of General Corporate Purpose General
Obligation Bonds in an amount not to exceed $700,000, and a third hearing to authorize
issuance of General Purpose General Obligation bonds for fire station improvements in
an amount not to exceed $350,000.
Smart Choice
515.239.5101 main
5.239.5142 fax
Ave.
IA 50010
w.CityofAmes.org
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Steven L. Schainker, City Manager
Date: February 18, 2022
Subject: Status of Land Lease Agreement Between Iowa State University (ISU) and the
City of Ames Regarding the Healthy Life Center Site on Ontario Road
On August 13, 2019, the City Council approved a Lease Agreement with Iowa State
University for land west of Scholl Road and north of Ontario Road to serve as the site for
the proposed Healthy Life Center. Subsequent to that action, the Board of Regents
approved the Lease Agreement.
As you know, the bond referendum on September 10, 2019 failed to garner the necessary
votes needed to continue with the Healthy Life Center project. As a result, the City
Council passed separate Resolutions on December 5, 2019, to terminate the previously
approved Agreements with Mary Greeley Medical Center, Story County, and Heartland
Senior Services, who previously committed to upfront capital contributions and ongoing
operational support for the Center. No action was taken to terminate the Land Lease
Agreement because Iowa State University never returned a fully executed Land Lease
Agreement to the City after the bond election failed.
In order to set the record straight, an ISU representative recently requested that the City
take action to clarify the status of the Lease Agreement. Therefore, I am recommending
that the City Council pass a resolution acknowledging that the Lease Agreement
previously approved by the City of Ames and the Board of Regents (acting on behalf
of Iowa State University) regarding the Healthy Life Center never went into effect
and is no longer needed since the project was not pursued further.
SLS/drv
Item No. 12
MEMO
ITEM#: 13
DATE: 02-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: 2021 RESOURCE RECOVERY SYSTEM ANNUAL REPORT
BACKGROUND:
The previous year proved to be very challenging with the continuing effects of COVID-19
and the completion of major improvements at the Ames Power Plant. Federal
requirements dictating the amount of RDF that can be fired along with completing the
Power Plant maintenance activities led to a temporary increase in the amount of rejects
being processed and hauled.
However, through these challenges, the Resource Recovery System (RRS) continues to
be a very effective method for waste management and landfill diversion. With 51,223 tons
of municipal solid waste (MSW) generated within the partner communities and agencies
during 2021, approximately 40,040 tons were received at the plant and processed to
create 23,598 tons of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF). An estimated 1,307 tons of metal and
256 tons of glass were recovered for recycling. Additional items diverted from the landfill
included almost 13 tons of Household Hazardous Materials, 15 tons of organics and 6.4
tons of pumpkins from the Great Pumpkin Disposal Program. Fortunately, we were able
to hold Rummage RAMPage once again in 2021, finding new uses and homes for
approximately 100,000 pounds of household items that would have otherwise been
destined for the landfill.
As mentioned, major improvements to the Power Plant boilers that began in 2019 were
completed in the fall of 2020. This will enhance the capacity of co-firing RDF and allow
increased efficiency of the Resource Recovery plant. This will also provide redundancy
and resilience for the haulers and other customers. Revenues from all sources totaled
$4,514,203 and total expenses were $4,254,055. This resulted in a net increase of
$260,148 to the Resource Recovery fund for fiscal year 2021. The per capita fee charged
to member agencies will remain at $10.50 and will be billed according to the results of the
2020 census. Based on projected financial needs to meet future operating, maintenance
and capital needs, the tipping fee will be raised to $62.50 beginning July 1, 2022.
ALTERNATIVES:
1.Accept the 2021 Resource Recovery System Annual Report
2.Request further information from staff
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Completing major improvements at the Power Plant last year will increase the efficiency
and capacity of utilizing RDF. The redundancy achieved by completing these major
improvements in both Power Plant boilers will result in enhanced and more consistent
service for the haulers and other customers.
The study to evaluate alternatives for optimizing the Waste-to-Energy process is
scheduled to be completed and presented to the City Council in spring of 2022. This
shared study between Resource Recovery and Electric Services could lead to significant
changes that improve the solid waste handling and energy production systems.
City Council acceptance of this report will allow staff to bill our participating partners for
their respective per capita fees for the Resource Recovery System.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No.1, as noted above.
ANNUAL REPORT 2021
ARNOLD O. CHANTLAND— RESOURCE RECOVERY SYSTEM
Email: rrp@cityofames.org
Web: www.cityofames.org/resourcerecovery
Phone: 515.239.5137
Address: 110 Center Ave
Ames, Iowa 50010
Email: rrp@cityofames.org
Web: www.cityofames.org/resourcerecovery
Phone: 515.239.5137
Address: 110 Center Ave
Ames, Iowa 50010
Thank You to our partners in Sustainability!
Nevada, Story City, Huxley, Slater, Roland, Gilbert, Maxwell,
Cambridge, Zearing, McCallsburg, Kelley, Story County,
Iowa State University
Table of Contents
Letter from the Director of Public Works
Service Objectives and Highlights
Materials, Revenues & Expenses
Resource Recovery System Fiscal Report
Resource Recovery System Annual Billing
Population- Percentages-Charges
Resource Recovery Plant Volumes
Resource Recovery System Fee Schedule
Public Works Department 515.239.5160 main 515 Clark Ave.
Administration 515.239.5404 fax Ames, IA 50010
www.CityofAmes.org
Service Highlights & Objectives
System Improvements Update
• Resource Recovery staff continues to work on recommendations from the consultant’s report on
landfill diversion. Continuous improvements include replacing conveyor belts C-2 and C-3A. The
C-2 conveyor belt is 72 inches wide and 81 feet long; and the C-3A conveyor belt is 72 inches
wide and 112 feet long. These continuous improvements allow us to maximize the recovery of
RDF and reduce the amount of material going to the landfill while continuing to send the highest
quality RDF to the Power plant.
Program Updates
• Participation in the Food Waste Diversion program has increased
dramatically with 32 tons diverted from the landfill in 2021. Two
trial runs of transporting food waste to the Water and Pollution
Control plant were performed and successfully run through the
anaerobic digester. Staff from RRP is working with staff from
WPC to facilitate this method of organic disposal and methane
recovery.
• The glass recycling program set a record in 2021 with 256 tons
recycled.
• The Great Pumpkin Disposal Program netted more than six tons destined for composting rather
than the landfill.
• Over 1,284 tons of metal was recycled from the waste stream rather than being landfilled. In 46
years, 81,669 tons of metal have been diverted from landfill and recycled. Additionally, after six
years of low pricing the metals market has noticed a partial recovery.
Resource Recovery System Public Education and Outreach
• Resource Recovery has worked to increase social media presence and en-
gagement. The City of Ames – Government and also the Ames Public Works
social media pages offer a great way to share plant and program information
in a timely way. Additionally, these outlets have provided another opportunity
to engage with residents.
• Sustainapalooza at Iowa State in the Memorial Union offers a great way to
network with other sustainability leaders from campus and the Ames commu-
nity; Resource Recovery featured the Food Waste Diversion program at the
2021 event.
• A new video was created for use with virtual audiences in mind during the
pandemic to explain what happens at RRP.
• Resource Recovery staff followed IDPH and CDC guidelines to minimize
risk to our employees and customers while still providing excellent customer
service. Regular reminders at staff and safety meetings help keep everyone informed and up to
date on City policies.
www.cityofames.org/resourcerecovery
Service Highlights & Objectives
Resource Recovery System Public Education and Outreach, cont’d
• RRP is working in cooperation with Ames Municipal Electric Services and a consultant to analyze
how we can maximize diversion from landfill and maximize energy recovery through a Waste to
Energy Options Study.
• Early planning meetings have started for Rummage RAMPage
2022. The sixth annual event will begin on Friday, July 29 and run
through Saturday, August 6. The event is organized by the City of
Ames and Iowa State University and staffed with volunteers from non-
profit organizations. Proceeds from the sales are divided amongst the
volunteer organizations.
• In five years, the event has diverted more than 430,000 pounds of furniture and household
items from the landfill. Rummage RAMPage would not be possible without the donations
from the citizens, the buyers, and the fantastic volunteers!
• Household Hazardous Material (HHM) drop-off appointments are now available on Saturday
mornings, as well as Wednesday afternoons. An additional day was added as a convenience op-
tion for customers, to improve customer service, and remove HHM from the waste stream.
• Primary Shredder: Staff worked with organizations that utilize the same brand shredder to source
parts to replace the rotor teeth and countercomb teeth that perform the shredding action. These
teeth are integral to the operation of the shredder to give proper sizing and shredding of the
waste. By utilizing this alternative vendor, RRP can reduce the replacement cost for the teeth by
60%!
• The Primary shredder is operated with an advanced hydraulic sys-
tem that can switch from a high speed/low torque to a low speed/
high torque operation automatically depending on the internal fluid
pressures in the hydraulic system. These specialized hydraulic drive
motors are necessary for the operation of the shredder, and they
are expensive. RRP staff has worked with local suppliers and ven-
dors to identify a company in Des Moines that can rebuild these hy-
draulic motors in house at a significant savings.
www.cityofames.org/resourcerecovery
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Email: rrp@cityofames.org
Web: www.cityofames.org/resourcerecovery
Phone: 515.239.5137
Address: 110 Center Ave
Ames, Iowa 50010
CITY OF AMES, IOWA
RESOURCE RECOVERY SYSTEM
SYSTEM SUMMARY FISCAL REPORT
2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 2022/23
Service Accomplishments: Actual Actual Adjusted Projected
Tons of refuse available 51,749 51,223 52,000 52,500
Tons of refuse diverted to Boone landfill 17,970 11,053 9,000 7,000
Tons of refuse processed 33,511 40,040 42,000 44,000
Tons of RDF to Electric Utility 17,217 23,598 29,000 30,500
Tons of glass recycled 215 256 265 280
Tons of metal recycled 1,056 1,307 1,800 2,000
Pounds of HHM* collected 26,420 25,716 27,000 27,000
ISU tons into plant 2,156 2,241 2,300 2,250
Pounds diverted from landfill to Rum-
mage RAMPage 116,424 0 92,126 105,000
Pounds of Organics Diverted 1,947 27,306 35,000 45,000
Average # of vehicles/free yard waste 638 624 532 575
Efficiency and Effectiveness:
% of available materials processed 67% 78% 85% 88%
Reject disposal rate/ton (Boone County) $52.00 $52.00 $52.00 $ 55.00
% of processed materials that are sent to
the landfill as rejects 45% 34% 27% 26%
Reject transportation rate/ton $14.14 $14.63 $15.15 $ 16.00
Average cost/user free yard waste day $7.24 $7.05 $10.22 $ 9.46
* Household Hazardous Materials
Email: rrp@cityofames.org
Web: www.cityofames.org/resourcerecovery
Phone: 515.239.5137
Address: 110 Center Ave
Ames, Iowa 50010
CITY OF AMES, IOWA
RESOURCE RECOVERY SYSTEM
ANNUAL BILLING
Participating Communities
For Fiscal Year 2021
REVENUES:
Per Capita $ 870,008
Refuse Derived Fuel-
Electric $ 976,964
Sale of Metals $ 227,736
Public Fees $ 84,603
Regular Customers $ 2,153,503
Reimbursements and
Refunds $ 5
Other Governmental
Agencies $ 6,810
I.S.U. Solid Waste
Share $ 197,211
Interest Revenue $ (2,637)
Damage Claims $ -
$ 4,514,203
EXPENSES:
Operations $ 4,093,668
Debt Service $ 160,387
$ 4,254,055
Net Income/Expense $ 260,148
Email: rrp@cityofames.org
Web: www.cityofames.org/resourcerecovery
Phone: 515.239.5137
Address: 110 Center Ave
Ames, Iowa 50010
CITY OF AMES, IOWA
RESOURCE RECOVERY SYSTEM
POPULATION - PERCENTAGES - CHARGES
Annual Billing - Calendar 2017 at $9.10
Annual Billing - Calendar 2019 at $10.50
Population
Percent of
Population Per Capita Charge
Ames 56,427 64.93% $592,484
Story County 8,965 10.32% $94,133
Nevada 6,925 7.97% $72,713
Story City 4,244 4.88% $44,562
Huxley 3,352 3.86% $35,196
Slater 1,543 1.78% $16,202
Roland 1,362 1.57% $14,301
Gilbert 1,211 1.39% $12,716
Maxwell 859 0.99% $9,020
Cambridge 827 0.95% $8,684
Zearing 528 0.61% $5,544
McCallsburg 353 0.41% $3,707
Kelley 304 0.35% $3,192
TOTALS 86,900 100.00% $912,450
Based on 2020 U.S. Census
Ames is 66,427 minus I.S.U. 10,000
Email: rrp@cityofames.org
Web: www.cityofames.org/resourcerecovery
Phone: 515.239.5137
Address: 110 Center Ave
Ames, Iowa 50010
CITY OF AMES, IOWA
RESOURCE RECOVERY PLANT VOLUMES
For Fiscal Year 2021
Generator 2021 TRIPS 2021 WEIGHT
PERCENT OF TOTAL
WEIGHT
Non-Scale Refuse (Car line) 5,577 1,185 2.3%
Commercial Haulers 7,460 36,230 71.5%
Private Industry/Contractors 536 442 0.9%
City of Ames 38 44 0.1%
Iowa State University 635 2,241 4.4%
Iowa Dept. of Transportation - - 0.0%
U.S.D.A. Lab 46 73 0.1%
Directly to Boone 1,981 10,454 20.6%
TOTALS 16,273 50,669 100.0%
Email: rrp@cityofames.org
Web: www.cityofames.org/resourcerecovery
Phone: 515.239.5137
Address: 110 Center Ave
Ames, Iowa 50010
CITY OF AMES, IOWA
RESOURCE RECOVERY SYSTEM
FEE SCHEDULE
CARLINE
YEAR PER CAPITA TIPPING CARS PICKUPS
2002/03 $11.75 $52.75/TON $8.00 $22.00
2003/04 $10.50 $52.75/TON $8.00 $22.00
2004/05 $10.50 $52.75/TON $8.00 $22.00
2005/06 $10.50 $52.75/TON $8.00 $22.00
$10.50 $52.75/TON $8.00 $22.00
$10.50 $52.75/TON $8.00 $22.00
$10.50 $52.75/TON $8.00 $22.00
$10.50 $52.75/TON $8.00 $22.00
$10.50 $52.75/TON $8.00 $22.00
$9.10 $52.75/TON $8.00 $22.00
$9.10 $52.75/TON $8.00 $22.00
2013/14 $9.10 $52.75/TON $8.00 $22.00
2014/15 $9.10 $52.75/TON $8.00 $22.00
2015/16 $9.10 $52.75/TON $8.00 $22.00
2016/17 $9.10 $52.75/TON $8.00 $22.00
2017/18 $9.10 / $10.50 $55.00/TON $10.00 $25.00
2018/19 $10.50 $55.00/TON $10.00 $25.00
2019/20 $10.50 $58.75/TON $10.00 $25.00
2020/21 $10.50 $58.75/TON $10.00 $25.00
2021/22 $10.50 $58.75/TON $10.00 $25.00
Proposed 2022/23 $10.50 $62.50/TON $10.00 $25.00
1
ITEM # __14
DATE: 02/22/22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: GOVERNOR’S TRAFFIC SAFETY BUREAU ENFORCEMENT GRANT
PROGRAM
BACKGROUND:
The Police Department is again requesting permission to apply for funding from the
Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau to support additional overtime traffic enforcement, and to
participate in the project should funding be awarded.
This program is conducted through the Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau in
cooperation with local and county law enforcement agencies. Its purpose is to
address traffic safety problems including alcohol, excessive speed, pedestrian and
bicycle safety, and vehicle occupant protection. The program is designed with both
enforcement and educational components to improve driver safety and protection, to
reduce impaired driving, and to enhance overall traffic safety. The Ames Police
Department has participated in similar annual programs in the past.
This grant will support additional traffic enforcement during periods of high risk for impaired
driving, excessive speed and crashes. The officers conducting this intensified traffic
enforcement will be added to the normal staffing levels for the Police Department and will
work on an overtime basis. The areas in which these officers work will be selected on the
basis of citizen complaints, officer observations and traffic incident data.
The grant application would request $39,000 in funding for the following uses:
•To pay officers at an overtime rate,
•To replace an in-car video camera unit,
•To fund acquisition of a Lidar, laser radar unit,
•To send an officer to an annual national traffic safety conference.
There is no local match required with this grant.
ALTERNATIVES:
1.Approve the Police Department’s application for and participation in the Governor’s
Traffic Safety Bureau Enforcement Grant program.
2
2. Do not approve this application.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Participation in this program allows our Police Department to devote additional resources
to traffic safety without additional local costs. These funds help reduce traffic violations and
improve traffic safety for the citizens of Ames.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council approve
Alternative #1 as described above.
ITEM # 15
DATE: 02-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: 2018/19 SHARED USE PATH SYSTEM EXPANSION – TRAIL
CONNECTION SOUTH OF LINCOLN WAY
BACKGROUND:
On August 13, 2019, City Council approved an Iowa DOT Agreement for MPO/STBG-
TAP funding for the 2018/19 Shared Use Path System Expansion – Trail Connection
South of Lincoln Way. The construction contract was awarded to Howrey Construction,
Inc. of Rockwell City, Iowa on September 22, 2020, with revised project limits from
Beedle Drive east to Franklin Park to coordinate with the timing of other projects.
This project is substantially complete with minor punch-list items and the project audit
remaining. As part of the Iowa DOT project audit requirements, the original agreement
must be revised to reflect the adjusted project limits. The attached Iowa DOT
Agreement Addendum has been prepared to reflect the change.
As shown on the attached map, the segment associated with this action is from
Beedle Drive to Franklin Park (brown). The segment from Franklin Park to S Wilmoth
Ave (green) is currently under design which construction anticipated late 2022 or early
2023. The most easterly segment from S Wilmoth Ave to State Ave (blue) is being
constructed in Spring 2022 as part of the Baker Subdivision improvements.
ALTERNATIVES:
1.Approve the Addendum to the Iowa DOT Agreement for MPO/STBG-TAP
funding for the 2018/19 Shared Use Path System Expansion – Trail Connection
South of Lincoln Way (Beedle Drive east to Franklin Park).
2.Reject the Agreement.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Approval of this addendum will allow the project closeout process to move forward.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as stated above.
Attachments (2)
BEYER CT
LINCOLN WAY
TRIPP ST
STATE AVE
DOTSON DR
COY ST
BEEDLE DR
S WILMOTH AVE
S FRANKLIN AVE
MARIGOLD DR
HARRIS ST
WOOD ST
APLIN RD
HILLTOP RD
STORY ST
S SHELDON AVE
HICKORY DR
LETTIE ST
HYLAND AVE
CAMPUS AVE
HOWARD AVE
WILMOTH AVE
FRANKLIN AVE
SUNFLOWER DR
COLORADO AVE
HUNT ST
COCHRANE PKWY
S HYLAND AVE
MARSHALL AVE
KNAPP STVILLAGE DR
FRONTAGE RD
MCDONALD DR
TRAIL RIDGE RD
MORNINGSIDE ST
BELLFLOWER DR
STORY ST
N 1 inch = 583 feet
Shared Use Path System Expansion
South of Lincoln Way Path
BEYER CT
UNION DR
LINCOLN WAY
TRIPP ST
WEST ST
WOODLAND ST
COY ST
STATE AVE
DOTSON DR
BEEDLE DR
HYLAND AVE
CAMPUS AVE
SHELDON AVE
ARBOR ST
HICKORY DR FRANKLIN AVE
S WILMOTH AVE
S FRANKLIN AVE
MARIGOLD DR
HARRIS ST
WOOD ST
APLIN RD
HILLTOP RD
STORY ST
S SHELDON AVE
CRANE AVE
LETTIE ST
ELLIS ST
HOWARD AVE
WILMOTH AVE
WESTWOOD DR
SUNFLOWER DR
COLORADO AVE
HUNT ST
COCHRANE PKWY
S HYLAND AVE
MARSHALL AVE
KNAPP ST
OLIVER AVE
VILLAGE DR
TRAIL RIDGE RD
FRONTAGE RD
HILLCREST AVE
MCDONALD DR
MORNINGSIDE ST
BELLFLOWER DR
LATIMER LN
STORY ST
Se gmen t Complete d (This Project)
Under D esign (2022 -23 Construction )
Constructio n in Sp ring 2 022 (Ba ker Su bdivision)
1
ITEM # 16
DATE: 2-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: ADA HAYDEN HERITAGE PARK PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS
FOR DREDGING WETLAND G
BACKGROUND:
This project is to dredge Wetland G located in Ada Hayden Heritage Park (see Figure 1).
The dredging will include removing approximately 3,800 cubic yards of sediment (sand,
silt, soil, etc.) and disposal at an offsite location. Wetland G is the first wetland pond that
is part of a complex of wetland ponds that treat storm water flowing into the park via
Jewelwing Creek. Jewelwing Creek drains a majority of the land directly west and
northwest of Ada Hayden Heritage Park (Hayden’s Preserve).
It was noted in the Land Management Plan developed by the Friends of Ada Hayden
Heritage Park indicates that in order for the wetland ponds to continue to function as
designed, dredging should take place within 20 years after the park’s development. This
year marks the eighteenth year of the park being open.
Figure 1
City of Ames Water Pollution Control staff completed the survey and developed the plans
and specifications for the project. It is estimated that Wetland G is at capacity regarding
2
the amount of sediment that has been deposited as determined by the initial survey
compared to the original specifications.
There is no Engineer’s Estimate for this project; however, staff contacted local
contractors capable of doing this work and it was determined that $175,000 would
be sufficient to complete this project. Therefore, the FY 2020/21 adjusted City
Budget allocated $175,000 from General Fund savings for this project. This funding
has been carried over into the current year and is available for this project.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve Plans and Specifications for the Dredging of Wetland G in Ada Hayden
Heritage Park, set the bid due date for March 23, 2022, and set April 12, 2022,
as the date of hearing and award of contract.
2. Do not approve the plans and specifications at this time, delaying the Ada
Hayden Heritage Park Dredging of Wetland G in Ada Hayden Heritage Park.
3. Refer back to staff.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Ada Hayden Heritage Park is one of the most popular parks in Ames. More importantly,
the lake provides a source of water in times of drought to recharge the aquifer that
supplies the City of Ames. The wetlands around the lake are in place to filter stormwater
coming into the park to protect the lake. It is important that the wetlands are maintained
to ensure they operate as intended and dredging will assist with meeting that goal.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that City Council approve
Alternative #1 as stated above.
ITEM#: 17
DATE: 02-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: 2021/22 ARTERIAL STREET PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS (NORTH
DAKOTA AVENUE AND ONTARIO STREET)
BACKGROUND:
This annual program utilizes current rehabilitation and reconstruction techniques to
improve concrete streets with asphalt or concrete. Restoring structural integrity,
serviceability, and rideability will extend the service life of these streets.
MSA, Inc. and City staff have completed plans and specifications for this project with
estimated construction costs of $1,362,000. Engineering and construction administration
costs for this project are estimated at $302,125, bringing total estimated costs for this
project to $1,664,125.00. Staff sent letters to all residents/businesses and met with
several property owners to obtain input regarding staging, construction timing, and special
access needs. Comments were received and addressed with the project design.
This project will have a March 15, 2022, letting through the Iowa DOT, which is a
requirement of using the MPO/Federal/State funding. Work could start as early as May
2022 and Iowa DOT has set a late start date of June 6, 2022. A summary of revenues
and projected expenses is shown below.
Funding Source Revenue Expenses
TOTAL $1,700,000 $1,664,125
ALTERNATIVES:
1.Approve plans and specifications for the 2021/22 Arterial Street Pavement
Improvements (North Dakota Ave and Ontario St) project and establish March 15,
2022, as the date of letting and March 22, 2022, as the date for report of bids.
2.Do not approve this project.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Approval of the plans and specifications will continue to keep this project on the Iowa
DOT’s March 15, 2022, letting schedule. Delay or rejection of these plans and
specifications will delay this project, and possibly jeopardize the funding.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.