HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - March 22, 2022, Regular Meeting of the Ames City CouncilAMENDED*
AGENDA
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES AREA
METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION (AAMPO)
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE AND
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
COUNCIL CHAMBERS - CITY HALL
MARCH 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.
AMES AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION (AAMPO)
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE MEETING
CALL TO ORDER: 6:00 p.m.
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 AAMPO Transportation Policy Committee votes on the motion.
1. Motion approving Annual Self-Certification for FY 2023
2. Resolution approving designation of AAMPO representatives to Central Iowa Regional
Transportation Planning Alliance
3. Motion setting May 24, 2022, as date of public hearing regarding amendments to the FFY
2022-2025 Transportation Improvement Program
ADMINISTRATION:
4. Motion approving the Draft FY 2023 Transportation Planning Work Program and setting May
24, 2022, as date of public hearing
POLICY COMMITTEE COMMENTS:
ADJOURNMENT:
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING**
**The Regular City Council Meeting will immediately follow the meeting of the Ames Area
Metropolitan Planning Organization Transportation Policy Committee.
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 the Regular Minutes of March 8, 2022
3. Motion approving Report of Change Orders for period March 1 - 15, 2022
4.Motion approving renewal of the following Beer Permits, Wine Permits, and Liquor Licenses:
a. Class C Liquor License with Sunday Sales - Dangerous Curves, 111 5th St., Pending Dram
Shop Insurance
b. Class C Liquor License with Sunday Sales - Cinemark Movies 12, 1317 Buckeye Avenue
c. Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service and Sunday Sales - Cornbred BBQ, 526 Main
Street, Suite 106
d. Class B Liquor License with Sunday Sales - Radisson Ames, 2609 University Blvd.
e. Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service and Sunday Sales - Brick City Grill, 2640
Stange Road
f. Class E Liquor License, Class C Beer Permit, Class B Wine Permit - Off Campus Beer &
Spirits LLC, 4518 Mortensen Rd, Suite 109
5. Resolution approving and adopting Supplement No. 2022-2 to Municipal Code
6. Resolution approving appointment of Mike LaPietra to the Planning and Zoning Commission
7. Resolution setting April 12, 2022, as date of public hearing for sale of City-owned property at
241 Village Drive to Habitat for Humanity of Central Iowa in the amount of $100,000 and
authorize staff to finalize terms and conditions for the sale
8. Resolution approving Certified Local Government (CLG) Annual Report
9. Resolution approving the State Historical Society of Iowa Grant-in-Aid Agreement for the
Chautauqua Park - Ridgewood Intensive Survey, Certified Local Government Grant Project
10. Resolution authorizing Public Art Commission to enter into agreements with artists for 2022/23
Ames Annual Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition selections
11. Resolution approving exception to Section 22.32(c)(2)(v) to allow alcohol service in Sidewalk
Café at Della Viti, 323 Main Street, Ste. 102
12. Resolution approving exception to Section 22.32(c)(2)(v) to allow alcohol service in Sidewalk
Café at Noir, 405 Kellogg
*Additional Item: SCADA System for Electric Services:
a. Resolution waiving City’s Purchasing Policies and Procedures requirement for formal bidding
b. Resolution awarding contract to Open Systems International, Inc., of Medina, Minnesota, for The
Monarch Support (Diamond/Gold/Diamond/Gold) for a four-year term in the total amount of
$321,021.00
13. Resolution approving Amendment to Lease Agreement with T-Mobile to authorize an
emergency standby generator to be installed adjacent to T-Mobile’s existing infrastructure
located at the Bloomington Road Elevated Tank (BRET)
14. Resolution approving the adoption of the 2022 Electric Reliability Plan statement
15. Resolution approving request from ChildServe to modify its FY 2021/22 ASSET Contract to
transfer $6,000 from Daycare Infant to Daycare Children
16. Resolution approving request from Heartland Senior Services to modify its FY 2021/22 ASSET
Contract to transfer $23,012 from Activity/Resource Center and $16,912 from Congregate Meals
to Home Delivered Meals
2
17. Requests from Frederiksen Court Community Center for Freddy Fun Run on Saturday April 23,
2022:
a. Motion approving blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit for the closed area
b. Resolution approving closures of portions of 6th Street from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
18. Requests from Ames Main Street (AMS) for Music Walk on Thursday, April 28, 2022:
a. Motion approving blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit and blanket Vending License in
Central Business District from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
b. Resolution approving closure of 10 metered parking spaces for vendors from 3:00 p.m. to
9:00 p.m.
c. Resolution approving waiver of parking meter fees and enforcement and usage and waiver
of electrical fees, and waiver of fee for blanket Vending License for Ames Main Street from
3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
19. Resolution approving an Electric Utility Easement on State of Iowa property for the installation
of electrical pull boxes along the east side of Beach Avenue between Sunset Drive and Country
Club Boulevard
20. Resolution approving an Electric Utility Easement on State of Iowa property adjacent to the
CyRide building that covers a new pad-mounted transformer and existing City-owned electric
facilities not previously covered by an easement
21. South 16th Street Improvements:
a. Motion rejecting bids
b. Resolution approving preliminary plans and specifications; setting April 6, 2022, as bid due
date and April 12, 2022, as date of public hearing
22. Resolution approving preliminary plans and specifications for 2020/2021 Concrete Street
Improvement (Ford Street, Bell Avenue, S. 17th Street, S. Kellogg Avenue); setting April 20,
2022, as bid due date and April 26, 2022, as date of public hearing
23. Resolution accepting completion of Contract with Blade Runner Turbomachinery Services,
LLC, for Unit 8 Turbine Generator Overhaul Project
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:
24. Staff Report regarding Outside Funding Request process
25. Staff Report regarding Naming Policy
PLANNING & HOUSING:
26. Motion directing staff to initiate annexation of 2219 and 2121 State Avenue
27. Dayton Avenue Tax-Increment Financing Development Agreement:
a. Motion directing staff to finalize the proposed Developer Agreement and return to City
Council for final approval in April
3
28. Resolution approving 2022/23 Proposed Annual Action Plan Projects for Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Programs
HEARINGS:
29. Hearing on proposal to sell, subject to easements, City-owned land locally known as 1101
Aviation Way (Sigler):
a. Resolution approving sale of 1101 Aviation Way to Mulmac, LLC
30. Hearing on proposal to vacate existing Public Utility Easement and Water Main Easement at
1915 Philadelphia Street:
a. Resolution approving vacating Public Utility Easement and Water Main Easement
31. Hearing on CyRide Electric Bus System Upgrades:
a. Motion accepting report of bids and delaying award
32. Hearing on 2021/22 Arterial Street Pavement Improvements (North Dakota Avenue and Ontario
Street):
a. Resolution approving final plans and specifications and awarding contract to Con-Struct,
Inc., of Ames, Iowa, in the amount of $1,430,118.60, contingent upon receipt of Iowa
Department of Transportation (IDOT) concurrence
33. Hearing on 2021/22 Collector Street Pavement Improvements (Hoover Avenue):
a. Resolution approving final plans and specifications and awarding contract to Manatt’s Inc.,
of Ames, Iowa, in the amount of $2,185,487.58
ORDINANCES:
34.Third passage and adoption of ORDINANCE NO. 4459 rezoning 525 SE 16th Street from
Agricultural “A” to Highway Oriented Commercial “HOC” and retain the Environmentally
Sensitive Area Overlay “O-E” for the floodway
35. Third passage and adoption of ORDINANCE NO. 4460 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
36. Third passage and adoption of ORDINANCE NO. 4461 to allow temporary yard waste
processing facilities through approval of a Special Use Permit by the Zoning Board of
Adjustment
DISPOSITION OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL:
COUNCIL COMMENTS:
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.
4
ITEM #: AAMPO 1
DATE: 3-22-22
AMES AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE
SUBJECT: AMES AREA MPO ANNUAL SELF-CERTIFICATION FOR FY 2023 BACKGROUND:
Pursuant to federal regulations, each Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) must
self-certify that its transportation planning process is addressing the major issues in the metropolitan planning area and is being conducted in accordance with all applicable
requirements. In the last Ames Area MPO process review by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA)
and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), a joint report was issued finding that the transportation planning activities of AAMPO are being carried out in accordance with federal regulations, policies, and procedures. ALTERNATIVES:
1. Certify that the Ames Area MPO transportation planning process is being
conducted in accordance with all applicable requirements.
2. Reject the certification.
ADMINISTRATOR’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The Administrator recommends that the Ames Area MPO Transportation Policy
Committee adopt Alternative No. 1, as noted above.
AMES AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
In accordance with 23 CFR 450.334, the STATE DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION and the Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization for the
Ames, Iowa urbanized area(s) hereby certify that the transportation planning process is
addressing the major issues in the metropolitan planning area and is being conducted in
accordance with all applicable requirements of:
(1) 23 U.S.C. 134, 49 U.S.C. Section 5303, and 23 CFR Part 450;
(2) In nonattainment and maintenance areas, Sections 174 and 176(c) and (d) of the Clean
Air Act as amended (42 U.S.C. 7504, 7506(c) and (d) and 40 CFR 93);
(3) Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended (42 U.S.C. 2000d-1) and 49 CFR
part 21;
(4) 49 U.S.C. 5332, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, national
origin, sex or age in employment or business opportunity;
(5) Section 1101(b) of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity
Act: A Legacy for Users (Pub. L. 109-59) regarding the involvement of Disadvantaged
Business Enterprises in FHWA and FTA funded planning;
(6) 23 CFR part 230, regarding the implementation of an equal employment opportunity
program on Federal and Federal-aid highway construction contracts;
(7) The provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et
seq.) and 49 CFR parts 27,37, and 38, and USDOT implementing regulation;
(8) Older Americans Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. 6101);
(9) 23 U.S.C. 324, regarding prohibition of discrimination based on gender; and
(10) Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and 49 CFR Part 27, regarding
discrimination against individuals with disabilities.
For AAMPO:
_________________________ _________________
John Haila, Chair Date
Transportation Policy Committee
ITEM #: AAMPO 2
DATE: 3-22-22
AMES AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE
SUBJECT: DESIGNATION OF CIRTPA REPRESENTATIVES BACKGROUND:
Each year the Transportation Policy Committee appoints representatives and alternate
representatives to the Central Iowa Regional Transportation Planning Alliances’ (CIRTPA) two committees – the Transportation Policy Committee (TPC) and the
Transportation Technical Committee (TTC). Since the Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization is an advisory member of CIRTPA, these are non-voting positions.
It is recommended that the Ames Area MPO’s designated representatives for 2022 be as follows:
TPC Representative: Kyle Thompson, Transportation Planner TPC Alternate Representative: Damion Pregitzer, Traffic Engineer
TTC Representative: Kyle Thompson, Transportation Planner TTC Alternate Representative: Damion Pregitzer, Traffic Engineer
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Appoint the individuals named above to their respective roles representing the
Ames Area MPO on CIRTPA.
2. Designate other individuals to serve the Ames Area MPO in this capacity.
ADMINISTRATOR’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The Administrator recommends that the Ames Area MPO Transportation Policy
Committee adopt Alternative No. 1, as noted above.
1
ITEM#: AAMPO 3
DATE: 3-22-22
AMES AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE
SUBJECT: FFY 2022 - 2025 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (TIP)
AMENDMENT
BACKGROUND:
To receive Federal funds for transportation improvement projects, it is necessary for the
projects to be included in the approved Iowa Department of Transportation Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP). The initial step in this process is for the Ames
Area MPO to develop a regional Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The Ames Area MPO’s current TIP programs projects for federal fiscal years 2022 through 2025 and
was approved on July 13, 2021. The TIP may be amended in accordance with prescribed amendment and public participation procedures.
The City of Ames has requested (see attached request) that the Ames Area MPO make modifications to two projects listed in the FFY22-25 TIP as follows:
• Ioway Creek Trail Project (ID: 19249)
o Total Cost: Increase to $1,082,000 (currently $922,000) o Federal Funding: Increase to $560,000 (currently $400,000) in FFY22
o Location:
Old Location: In the City of Ames, Ioway Creek: from Skunk River to S 5th Street.
New Location: In the City of Ames, Ioway Creek: from 0.5 miles east of S Duff Avenue to S 5th Street.
• Skunk River Trail Project (ID: 14983) o Remove from the TIP (Currently has $160,000 in federal funding programmed in FFY22.) Per the City of Ames request, the Skunk River Trail Project has seen a lack of property acquisition progress; therefore, it is likely that this project would need to continue to be rolled over into future fiscal years. Removing this project from the TIP and reprogramming those federal funds towards the Ioway Creek Trail project, which has an anticipated letting in September this year, would allow for a more immediate use of the MPO’s TAP funds.
Additionally, Iowa Clean Air Attainment Program (ICAAP) funds were awarded by the Iowa DOT to CyRide in January for three transit projects. These three projects need to be added to the current TIP so CyRide can promptly access the awarded funds:
o #11 Cherry Night Service (Year 3) - $31,609 in CMAQ funding
o #12 Lilac Midday Service (Year 3) - $29,830 in CMAQ funding o #6 Brown Night Service (Year 3) - $28,258 in CMAQ funding
2
The requirements to process amendments to the TIP call for an opportunity for public review and comment as well as approval by both the Technical and Policy Committees of the Ames Area MPO. The Technical Committee reviewed this proposed amendment on March 10, 2022, and unanimously recommended approval. The public input period will be available from March 23, 2022, to April 30, 2022. After the public input period, this item will go before the Policy Committee again for the public hearing and final approval on May 24, 2022.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Review the amendment to the FFY 2022-2025 Transportation Improvement
Program and set May 24, 2022, as the date for the public hearing.
2. Review and modify the amendment.
ADMINISTRATOR’S RECOMMENDATION:
The Transportation Technical Committee has reviewed the proposed amendment to the
FFY 2022-2025 TIP and unanimously recommended approval. The requested project
modifications by the City of Ames will allow the Ames Area MPO to better utilize its
accruing TAP funding for trail projects. Additionally, adding CyRide’s ICAAP projects will
allow them to access their awarded funds.
Therefore, it is recommended by the Administrator that the Transportation Policy
Committee adopt Alternative No. 1, as noted above.
Caring People Quality Programs Exceptional Service
515.239.5160 main
515.239.5404 fax
515 Clark Ave.
Ames, IA 50010
www.CityofAmes.org
Public Works – Traffic Division
MEMO
To:Kyle Thompson, AAMPO
From:Mark Gansen, Civil Engineer II, Public Works - Traffic
Date:February 28, 2022
SUBJECT:Proposed Amendments to Ioway Creek Shared Use Path, TPMS
ID# 19249 & Skunk River Trail Shared Use Path, TPMS ID#14983
UPDATE:
Through coordination with other City of Ames projects, it has been determined that
the project limits of the Ioway Creek Shared Use Path project need to be modified
due to delays in property acquisition. Here’s information on the location change:
Old Location: In the city of Ames, Ioway Creek: From Skunk River to S. 5th
St
New Location: In the City of Ames, Ioway Creek: From 0.5 Miles east of S.
Duff Avenue to S. 5th Street
Through this same coordination it has also been determined that the Skunk River
Trail Shared Use Path needs to be removed and reprogrammed at a later date due
to the lack of property acquisition and other potential uses of the property.
Through preliminary design of the Ioway Creek project we’ve also created a
preliminary OPC and would like to request additional TAP funding. Here’s
information on funding items:
Local Funding: $521,800
Original MPO Funding: $159,000
7-13-21 Amended TIP MPO Funding: $400,000
Proposed MPO Funding: $560,000
Most recent OPC: $878,520.50
Also attached is a map for reference for the location change. Please let me know if
you need any additional information. Thank you.
Ioway Creek Trail Project (Proposed New Project Limits)
S
D
u
f
f
A
v
e
S 5th St
S
W
a
l
n
u
t
1
ITEM#: AAMPO 4
DATE: 3-22-22
AMES AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE
SUBJECT: DRAFT FY 2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM
BACKGROUND:
The Ames Area MPO carries out a continuing, cooperative, and comprehensive multimodal
transportation planning process. As a part of the Federal regulations governing Metropolitan
Planning Organizations, the Federal Highway Administration and the Federal Transit
Administration provide planning funds to reimburse agencies for transportation planning
activities. Transportation planning activities are outlined in a unified transportation planning work
program which the Ames Area MPO develops annually for each fiscal year. The State of Iowa
uses a Consolidated Planning Grant where FHWA and FTA planning funds are combined into a
single fund.
In addition to conducting and coordinating short-term and long-term regional transportation
planning efforts, the MPO is responsible for the development of the following planning
documents: Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP), Transportation Improvement Program
(TIP), Public Participation Plan (PPP), Transportation Planning Work Program (TPWP), and
Passenger Transportation Plan (PTP). To plan for and organize these planning efforts, the FY
2023 TPWP has been separated into seven different work elements. These elements are:
1. Administration
2. Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
3. Transit Planning
4. Comprehensive Planning
5. Long-Range Transportation Planning
6. Transportation Data
a. Data Management
b. Data Procurement
7. Special Studies
a. US 69 (S Duff Ave) & US 30 Interchange Study
b. Ames North Growth Intersections (190th St Corridor) Study
On February 9, 2022, the Iowa Department of Transportation provided funding targets for the
MPO to use in the development of the FY 2023 TPWP. Those targets are shown in the following
table.
2
The currently proposed FY 2023 MPO budget totals $448,000 ($358,400 in Federal funds and
$89,600 in local funds). This budget, shown in detail below, fully utilizes all anticipated carryover
amounts and has $42,928 in unobligated funds that can be programmed in future fiscal years
as carryover.
Federal Funding Source
Work Element Activity Staff 5305d 5305d FHWA PL
Carryover
FHWA PL
New Federal Local
Match
Total
Funding
1 - Administration Admin 785 $3,582 - $22,292 $14,126 $40,000 $10,000
2 - TIP TIP 196 $716 - $4,458 $2,825 $8,000 $2,000
3 - Transit Planning 765 $3,582 $14,126 $22,292 - $40,000 $10,000 $50,000
4 - Comprehensive
Planning Comp Planning 491 $1,791 - $11,146 $7,063 $20,000 $5,000 $25,000
5 - Long Range
Planning
Long-Range
Planning 196 $716 - $4,458 $2,825 $8,000 $2,000 $10,000
6 - Transportation
Data
196 $716 - $4,458 $2,825 $8,000 $2,000 $10,000
Data
Procurement - $7,093 - $44,138 $27,969 $79,200 $19,800 $99,000
7 - Special Studies
Interchange 39 $9,099 - $56,622 $35,879 $101,600 $25,400 $127,000
Ames North
Growth
Intersections 39 $4,800 - $29,871 $18,928 $53,600 $13,400 $67,000
FY23 Budget Totals
FTA 5305d
Carryover
FTA 5305d
New
FHWA PL
Carryover
FHWA PL
New TOTAL
Starting Available Federal Balance $ 32,098 $ 44,866 $199,737 $124,627 $ 401,328
Programmed $ 32,098 $ 14,126 $199,737 $112,439 $ 358,400
The FY 2023 Transportation Planning Work Program will be effective from July 1, 2022, through
June 30, 2023. All MPO planning activities and processes conducted during this time must
conform with the work program.
3
The next step will be a public input period from March 23, 2022, to April 30, 2022 (including a
public input session on March 24, 2022, being held via Microsoft Teams). Additionally, federal
and state partners will be reviewing the draft document, which is due by April 1, 2022.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the Draft FY 2023 Transportation Planning Work Program and set May 24,
2022, as the date of public hearing.
2. Modify the Draft FY 2023 Transportation Planning Work Program and set May 24, 2022,
as the date of public hearing.
ADMINISTRATOR’S RECOMMENDATION:
The Transportation Technical Committee has reviewed the Draft FY 2023 Transportation
Planning Work Program and unanimously recommends approval.
Therefore, it is recommended by the Administrator that the Transportation Policy Committee
adopt Alternative No. 1, as noted above.
The Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization prepared this report with funding from the U.S. Department of
Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration, and in part through local matching
funds of the Ames Area MPO member governments. These contents are the responsibility of the Ames Area MPO. The
U.S. government and its agencies assume no liability for the contents of this report or for the use of its contents. The
Ames Area MPO approved this document on May 24, 2022. Please call (515) 239-5160 to obtain permission to use.
DRAFT
Transportation Planning Work Program
Fiscal Year 2023
2 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
CONTENTS
1 - Introduction...........................................................................................................................................4
1.1 Document Purpose ...........................................................................................................................4
1.2 AAMPO Overview and Planning Area ...............................................................................................4
1.3 Transportation Policy Committee.....................................................................................................5
1.4 Transportation Technical Committee ...............................................................................................6
1.5 Planning Documents Maintained by AAMPO ...................................................................................6
2 – TPWP Development..............................................................................................................................7
2.1 TPWP Development Process.............................................................................................................7
2.2 Planning Priorities.............................................................................................................................8
2.3 Performance-Based Planning............................................................................................................9
3 – Work Elements ...................................................................................................................................12
3.1 Regional & Federal Planning Goals.................................................................................................12
3.2 Planning Emphasis Areas ................................................................................................................13
Element 1 - Administration...................................................................................................................14
Element 2 – Transportation Improvement Program ............................................................................16
Element 3 – Transit Planning ................................................................................................................18
Element 4 – Comprehensive Planning..................................................................................................21
Element 5 – Long-Range Transportation Planning ...............................................................................22
Element 6 – Transportation Data..........................................................................................................23
Element 7 – Special Studies..................................................................................................................25
4 – FY 2023 Budget Summary...................................................................................................................26
4.1 Budget & Staff Hours Summary......................................................................................................26
4.2 Cost Allocation Plan ........................................................................................................................27
4.3 Private Sector Involvement.............................................................................................................27
5 – Revisions to the Transportation Planning Work Program ..................................................................28
5.1 Overview.........................................................................................................................................28
5.2 Waiver of Approvals........................................................................................................................28
5.3 Revision and Approval Procedures .................................................................................................29
Appendix A – Resolution of Approval.......................................................................................................30
Appendix B – Self-Certification of Procurement and Consultation Selection Procedures .......................31
3 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Appendix C – Performance Management Agreement .............................................................................32
4 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
1 - Introduction
1.1 Document Purpose
The Fiscal Year 2023 Transportation Planning Work Program (TPWP) is the regional work plan
developed by the Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (AAMPO) for the fiscal year
beginning July 1, 2022 and ending June 30, 2023. The TPWP is a requirement of 23 CFR 450.308(b) for
metropolitan planning organizations to develop a document identifying work proposed for the next
one-year period by major activity and task. The document includes details to indicate who will perform
the planning activity, the schedule for completing the activity, what products should result from each
activity, funding for each activity as well as a total program budget.
1.2 AAMPO Overview and Planning Area
AAMPO was officially designated the MPO of the Ames urbanized area by the Governor of Iowa in
March 2003. This designation was the result of the Ames urbanized area having a population greater
than 50,000 in the 2000 Census.
As a result of the 2010 Census, the urbanized areas of Ames and Gilbert were combined into one
urbanized area, therefore requiring the Metropolitan Planning Area to be expanded to encompass this
area in its entirety. The Ames Area MPO approved the current Metropolitan Planning Area boundary
on November 13, 2012 (shown in Figure 1). The City of Gilbert and Iowa State University were added to
the Transportation Policy Committee on March 26, 2013.
Figure 1: AAMPO Boundary (Adopted Nov 13, 2012)
5 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
The Ames Area MPO provides and coordinates various transportation planning and improvement
efforts throughout the Ames urban area.
1.3 Transportation Policy Committee
Transportation Policy Committee Membership
Representative Agency Member Representative Agency Role
City of Ames (Chair)John Haila Mayor
City of Ames Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen Council Member
City of Ames Gloria Betcher Council Member
City of Ames Amber Corrieri Council Member
City of Ames Tim Gartin Council Member
City of Ames Anita Rollins Council Member
City of Ames Rachel Junck Council Member
Boone County Bill Zinnel Board of Supervisors
Story County Linda Murken Board of Supervisors
Ames Transit Agency (CyRide)Jacob Ludwig CyRide Board Member
City of Gilbert Jonathan Popp Mayor
Iowa Dept. of Transportation ‡Andy Loonan District 1 Transportation Planner
Iowa Dept. of Transportation ‡Zac Bitting Metropolitan and Regional Planning Coordinator
Iowa Dept. of Transportation ‡Cindy Shearer Statewide Planning Support
Federal Highway Administration ‡Darla Hugaboom Iowa Division Community Planner
6 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Federal Highway Administration ‡Sean Litteral Planning and Development Team Leader
Federal Transit Administration ‡Eva Steinman Region 7 Community Planner
Iowa State University ‡Brandi Latterell Director for Planning Services
‡ Non-voting
1.4 Transportation Technical Committee
The Transportation Technical Committee (TTC) consists of technical personnel from various agencies
involved in transportation issues within the planning area. The TTC formulates the procedural details of
the Transportation Planning Work Program. The committee reviews and monitors the output of
various MPO activities identified in the work program and makes recommendations to the policy
committee. The committee is also responsible for assisting in developing Transportation Improvement
Programs and Metropolitan Transportation Plans. The Iowa Department of Transportation, the Federal
Highway Administration, and the Federal Transit Administration serve as advisory, non-voting,
representatives.
‡ Non-voting
1.5 Planning Documents Maintained by AAMPO
The Ames Area MPO develops, updates, and maintains the following core planning documents:
Transportation Planning Work Program (TPWP)
Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
Public Participation Plan (PPP)
Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP)
Passenger Transportation Plan (PTP)
Transportation Technical Committee Membership
Representative Agency Member Representative Agency Role
City of Ames (Chair)Damion Pregitzer Traffic Engineer
City of Ames (Vice-Chair)Justin Moore Planner
City of Ames Justin Clausen Operations Manager
City of Ames Kelly Diekmann Director of Planning & Housing
City of Ames Tracy Peterson Municipal Engineer
Ames Transit Agency (CyRide)Barb Neal Transit Director
Iowa State University Sarah Lawrence Campus Planner
Boone County Scott Kruse County Engineer
Story County Darren Moon County Engineer
Ames Community School Dist.Gerry Peters Facilities Director
Ames Economic Development Commission Dan Culhane President & Chief Executive Officer
Iowa Dept. of Transportation ‡Andy Loonan District 1 Transportation Planner
Iowa Dept. of Transportation ‡Zac Bitting Metropolitan and Regional Planning
Coordinator
Iowa Dept. of Transportation ‡Cindy Shearer Statewide Planning Support
Federal Highway Administration ‡Darla Hugaboom Iowa Division Community Planner
Federal Highway Administration ‡Sean Litteral Planning and Development Team Leader
Federal Transit Administration ‡Eva Steinman Region 7 Community Planner
7 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
2 – TPWP Development
2.1 TPWP Development Process
The FY 2023 Transportation Planning Work Program was developed from input by AAMPO staff, the
AAMPO Transportation Technical Committee, the public, and the AAMPO Transportation Policy
Committee. The following milestones describe the process in which the Transportation Planning Work
Program was developed.
February 1, 2022 – March 9, 2022 – Initial Draft Development
AAMPO staff developed the initial Draft FY23 TPWP.
March 10, 2022 – Transportation Technical Committee Meeting
A review and discussion on the Draft FY23 TPWP was undergone by the Transportation
Technical Committee.
March 22, 2022 – Transportation Policy Committee Meeting
A review and discussion on the Draft FY23 TPWP was undergone by the Transportation Policy
Committee and the date of public hearing was set for May 24, 2022.
March 23, 2022 – April 30, 2022 – Public Input Period
A public comment period for the Draft FY23 TPWP was established from March 23 through April
30, 2022. During the comment period, the draft document was posted on the MPO website,
aampo.org, and notifications were distributed to the public. Comments could be submitted via
online form, email, mail, and by phone. A public input session was also held virtually via
Microsoft Teams on March 24, 2022.
April 1, 2022 – April 30, 2022 – Review by Federal and State Partners
Federal and State partners at the Federal Highway Administration, Federal Transit
Administration, and Iowa Department of Transportation reviewed the Draft FY23 TPWP. By
April 30, 2022, the MPO received comments to address in the Final FY23 TPWP.
May 1, 2022 – May 23, 2022 – Final TPWP Development
AAMPO staff created the Final FY23 TPWP based upon feedback from the public, state and
federal partners, and members of the AAMPO Technical and Policy Committees.
May 24, 2022 – Transportation Policy Committee Hearing
A public hearing was held by the Transportation Policy Committee to consider adoption of the
FY23 TPWP with opportunities from the public to respond and present to the committee. This
document was then formally approved by the Transportation Policy Committee.
8 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
2.2 Planning Priorities
The FY 2023 TPWP addresses the planning goals of the Ames Area MPO, which are:
Provide a connected transportation system that offers efficient and reliable mobility options for
all modes of travel.
Provide a safe transportation system.
Consider and mitigate the impacts of the transportation system on the natural and built
environment.
Provide an accessible transportation system which fits within the context of its surroundings
and preserves community character.
Provide a transportation system that supports the regional economy and efficiently moves
goods.
Maintain transportation infrastructure in a state-of-good-repair.
The following is a list of ongoing and future challenges the Ames Area MPO expects to address through
projects and planning activities:
The Ames regional area experiences a high variability in traffic due to weekly commuters,
regional commercial weekend traffic, and special events (such as Iowa State football games).
AAMPO will leverage emerging technologies as well as automated data collection to generate
regional metrics for a performance-based planning approach and assist local agencies in
improving traffic operations.
The COVID-19 Pandemic may catalyze long-term fundamental changes in travel behaviors
across all modes of transportation. AAMPO will utilize emerging data sources and data types to
monitor these potential shifts in travel behaviors as well as stay current on the latest research
and reporting of travel behavioral trends.
Some intersections and corridors within Ames are nearing operational capacities and struggle
to handle currently observed levels of traffic and users. Through emerging technologies such as
adaptive traffic signal control, transit signal priority, widescale data collection, and new ITS
communication technologies, AAMPO will ensure projects are planned and executed which
attempt to leverage new technologies to maximize operational capabilities and improve
intersection and roadway capacities across all modes of travel.
9 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
2.3 Performance-Based Planning
Performance-based planning and performance management became a focus for State and regional
transportation planning with the signing of the 2012 Federal surface transportation bill Moving Ahead
for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP-21). The Federal government established seven national goals
through MAP-21, and maintained these goals in subsequent Federal legislation, with the purpose of
improving decision-making through performance-based planning and programming. Those seven goals
are:
Safety
Infrastructure Condition
Congestion Reduction
System Reliability
Freight Movement and Economic Vitality
Environmental Sustainability
Project Delivery
The Ames Area MPO must establish and use a performance-based approach in transportation decision
making to support the national goals. The Ames Area MPO implements these required metrics in
coordination with the Iowa DOT (see Appendix C for the Performance Management Agreement),
which includes setting regional targets for several performance measures established by the Federal
Highway Administration (FHWA) and Federal Transit Administration (FTA). Future reports on the Ames
Area MPO’s progress in reaching regional targets will be included in future metropolitan transportation
planning documents. A discussion is shown here for each of the performance areas.
Road Safety
The safety measures are:
Number of Fatalities
Rate of Fatalities per 100 million VMT
Number of Serious Injuries
Rate of Serious Injuries per 100 million VMT
Number of Non-Motorized Fatalities and Non-motorized Serious Injuries
In October 2021, the Ames Area MPO adopted to support the targets of the Iowa Department
of Transportation.
10 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Transit Safety
As a recipient of urbanized area formula grant funding, the Ames Transit Agency (CyRide)
established its initial agency safety plan on October 28, 2020, where safety performance targets
were established within this plan based on the following safety performance measures FTA
established in the National Public Transportation Safety Plan including:
Fatalities
Injuries
Safety Events
System Reliability
CyRide’s Safety Plan, which will be certified each year, includes processes and procedures to
implement Safety Management Systems (SMS) at CyRide to anticipate future risks and detect
problems before safety issues occur. This plan includes strategies for minimizing the exposure
of the public, personnel, and property to unsafe conditions and again include safety
performance targets. SMS will support a data-based framework to identify and analyze safety
hazards and risks to prioritize resources towards the mitigation of these issues.
In October 2021, the Ames Area MPO adopted to support the targets set in CyRide’s Safety
Plan. The plan will be updated annually by October and if targets are revised, those will be
submitted to the Ames Area MPO.
Pavement and Bridge
The pavement and bridge measures are:
Percent of Interstate pavements in Good condition
Percent of Interstate pavements in Poor condition
Percent of non-Interstate NHS pavements in Good Condition
Percent of non-Interstate NHS pavements in Poor condition
Percent of NHS bridges classified as in Good condition
Percent of NHS bridges classified as in Poor condition
In March 2021, the Ames Area MPO adopted to support the targets of the Iowa Department of
Transportation.
11 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Transit Asset Management
The Transit Asset Management (TAM) targets are:
Equipment: Percent of non-revenue vehicles met or exceeded Useful Life Benchmark
Rolling Stock: Percentage of revenue vehicles met or exceeded Useful Life
Benchmark
Facilities: Percentage of assets with condition rating below 3.0 on FTA TERM scale
Infrastructure: Not applicable. (The infrastructure performance measure element,
which FTA requires, is limited to rail fixed guideway assets. There is no fixed
guideway passenger transport in the Ames region.)
CyRide established their first TAM plan and targets in January 2017. Every year, the TAM Plan
and targets are updated by CyRide in the fall. The last update for CyRide’s TAM Plan was
September 2021 and intends to update its TAM Plan again in September 2022. If targets are
modified, CyRide shares those updated targets with the AAMPO. Per FTA regulations, AAMPO
is not obligated to update their TAM targets whenever transit agencies update their targets.
In October 2021, the Ames Area MPO adopted CyRide’s latest TAM targets.
System and Freight Reliability
The system performance and freight measures are:
Percent of person-miles traveled on the Interstate that are reliable
Percent of person-miles traveled on the non-Interstate NHS that are reliable
Truck Travel Time Reliability Index
In March 2021, the Ames Area MPO adopted to support the targets of the Iowa Department of
Transportation.
12 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
3 – Work Elements
This section will describe each of the seven planning work planning elements that AAMPO will undergo
in Fiscal Year 2023: administration, transportation improvement program, transit planning,
comprehensive planning, long-range transportation planning, transportation data, and special studies.
3.1 Regional & Federal Planning Goals
Table 1 describes how each of the work elements relate to accomplishing regional transportation
planning goals/priorities (listed in the AAMPO’s MTP, “Forward 45”) and the federal planning factors
that should guide the planning processes conducted by MPOs.
Table 1: Relation of Work Elements and Regional Goals/Planning Factors
Elem. 1
Admin
Elem. 2
TIP
Elem. 3
Comp
Planning
Elem. 4
Transit
Elem. 5
Long-
Range
Planning
Elem. 6
Data
Elem. 7
Special
Studies
Accessibility X X X X X X
Safety X X X X X
Sustainability X X X X X
Efficiency &
Reliability X X X X X X
Placemaking X X X X X X
Regional
Goals
Preservation X X X X
Economic Vitality X X X X
Safety X X X X X X
Security X X X X
Accessibility &
Mobility X X X X X
Protect &
Enhance the
Environment and
Promote
Conservation
X X X X X X
Integration &
Connectivity X X X X X X
Efficiency X X X X X X
Preservation X X X X
Improve
Resiliency &
Reliability
X X X X X X
Planning
Factors
Enhance Travel &
Tourism X X X X X X
13 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
3.2 Planning Emphasis Areas
On December 30, 2021, the FHWA and FTA released updated 2021 planning emphasis areas (PEAs) for
use in the development of metropolitan and statewide planning and research programs. The following
details how the Ames Area MPO addresses some of these PEAs through its various planning activities
and planning document updates (including the TPWP).
Climate – The Ames Area MPO will provide support, as needed, to the City of Ames in the ongoing
development of its Climate Action Plan, which will be a framework and plan that outlines the guiding
principles and actions needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Ames. This is identified in Work
Element 3 (Comprehensive Planning). Work Element 4 (Transit Planning) also includes the
development of CyRide’s Climate Action Plan. The Ames Area MPO will also continue to consider
climate impacts (positive and negative) when identifying, prioritizing, and evaluating projects in the TIP
and the MTP.
Equity & Justice – The Ames Area MPO develops and maintains a Public Participation Plan (PPP) and a
Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Plan. These plans aim to ensure ample public involvement
opportunities for underserved and disadvantaged populations. Additionally, the Ames Area MPO
submits Title VI documentation to both the FHWA and FTA, which ensure that the MPO is adhering to
applicable Title VI requirements. Title VI prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national
origin in any program or activity that receives federal funding. These documents are all developed as a
part of Work Element 1 (Administration). Additionally, impacts to underserved and disadvantaged
populations are considered when identifying, prioritizing, and evaluating projects in the TIP and the
MTP.
Complete Streets – The Ames Area MPO previously supported the City of Ames in the development of
its Complete Streets Plan in 2018. The latest MTP refers to the Ames Complete Streets Plan and
leverages its policies and principles when evaluating the regionwide transportation network and
developing and prioritizing projects.
Public Involvement – As previously mentioned, the Ames Area MPO develops and maintains a Public
Participation Plan. This plan details how the MPO involves the public and stakeholders in its
transportation planning efforts.
Planning & Environmental Linkages (PEL) – During MTP updates, the Ames Area MPO always considers
environmental, community, and economic goals early in the transportation planning process. These
regional goals (which were shown before in Table 1) form the foundation of the MTP and its strategy
development and project prioritization processes.
Data in Transportation Planning – The Ames Area MPO is actively incorporating data in its planning
processes and shares its data with its member agencies and stakeholders. Work Element 6
(Transportation Data) is dedicated to obtaining and leveraging transportation datasets and utilizing
data analytics to strengthen performance-based planning efforts in the region.
14 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Element 1 - Administration
Objective: To initiate and properly manage the “3-C” planning process, ensuring that it is continuous,
cooperative, and comprehensive, and in compliance with applicable State and Federal laws and
regulations.
Primary FY 2022 Accomplishments:
Administered the FY 2022 TPWP
Developed and approved the FY 2023 TPWP
Developed and approved the 2021 update to the Public Participation Plan
Developed and approved the 2021 update to the Limited English Proficiency Plan
Developed and approved the 2021 update to the FTA Title VI Program
Conducted Transportation Policy Committee and Transportation Technical Committee meetings
Attended Iowa DOT quarterly MPO meetings
Submitted quarterly planning funding reimbursement requests and semi-annual DBE reports
Updated and maintained the AAMPO website: www.aampo.org
Participated in meetings and coordinated with other agencies
Note, all activities from FY 2022 were completed for this task.
Description:
This task includes all administrative tasks which support activities of the MPO including the following:
prepare and submit required documents to maintain the continuity and credibility of the planning
process. Sponsor and conduct meetings and provide support to policy and technical committees.
Prepare budgets, maintain financial records, and ensure planning funds are spent appropriately.
Coordinate activities with participating agencies and other public and private interests.
Purchase/lease supplies, computer equipment and other equipment necessary to carry out planning
efforts. Maintain sufficient software and purchase necessary upgrades when beneficial to AAMPO.
Conducting informational meetings, as well as public hearings, to obtain public input and feedback on
ongoing activities. The Public Participation Plan, along with other pertinent documents maintained and
developed by the Ames Area MPO are posted online at www.aampo.org. The Public Participation Plan
will be evaluated for modifications to evolve with communication preferences, as warranted.
AAMPO staff will participate in conferences, seminars, meetings, and other training opportunities to
remain familiar with the latest regulations and techniques related to the transportation planning field
as provided by the Federal Transit Administration, Federal Highway Administration, American Planning
Association, Environmental Protection Agency, Iowa Department of Transportation, peer
transportation planning organizations, and other agencies and professional organizations.
15 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
FY 2023 Products:
Administer the FY 2023 TPWP
Develop and approve the FY 2024 TPWP
Carry out required annual certifications
Maintain records and files and update and maintain the AAMPO website
Complete reports, surveys, and other materials requested by Federal, State, or other
governmental agencies
Administer meetings for the Transportation Policy Committee and Transportation Technical
Committee
Participate in regional and state-wide coordination meetings related to transportation planning
Participate in conferences, trainings, and meetings pertinent to transportation planning hosted
by Federal, State, professional organizations, or other appropriate organizations and agencies.
Market and perform outreach for MPO planning activities
Review Public Participation Plan (PPP) and Title VI documentation and update as needed
Purchase/lease supplies and equipment as well as maintain sufficient software and upgrades
that are beneficial to AAMPO planning efforts
Activities for this work element will be ongoing throughout the fiscal year unless noted below.
The FY 2024 TPWP will be developed and approved in late winter/spring 2023.
Total Budget: $50,000 (Federal - $40,000)
MPO Staff Hours: 785
16 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Element 2 – Transportation Improvement Program
Objective: Develop and maintain a regional program of near-term projects that are consistent with the
current Ames Area MPO Metropolitan Transportation Plan, “Forward 45”.
Primary FY 2021 Accomplishments:
Approved and administered the FFY 2022-25 TIP
Amended the FFY 2022-25 TIP
Developed the FFY 2023-26 TIP
Solicited, gathered, and evaluated applications for regional STBG & STBG-TAP funding
Performed and managed regional project programming through the TPMS system
Note, all activities from FY 2022 were completed for this task.
Description:
The Ames Area MPO is responsible for developing the funding program of transportation projects
which use Federal funds, utilize STBG-SWAP funds, or are regionally significant. The MPO carries out a
process for soliciting regional projects for the Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) and
Transportation Alternatives program (STBG-TAP). The MPO also reviews regional projects seeking Iowa
Clean Air Attainment Program (ICAAP) funds.
Projects which are awarded Federal funding, or are regionally significant, are included in the
Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The TIP is developed in coordination with local
governments, the State of Iowa, and transit operators. Consistent with the Public Participation Plan,
opportunities for public review and comments will be provided for all Transportation Policy Committee
actions on the TIP. Coordination with the Iowa DOT Statewide Transportation Improvement Program
(STIP) will also be undertaken.
FY 2023 Products:
Approve and administer the FFY 2023-26 TIP
Amend and modify the FFY 2023-26 TIP as needed
Develop the FFY 2024-27 TIP
Solicit, gather, and evaluate applications for regional STBG & STBG-TAP funding
Perform and manage regional project programming through the TPMS system
FY 2023 Schedule:
Activities for this work element will be ongoing throughout the fiscal year unless noted below.
The FFY 2023-26 TIP will be approved in July 2022 and the FFY 2024-27 TIP will be developed in
late spring/early summer 2023.
Regional STBG & STBG-TAP funding applications for FFY 2024-27 will be solicited, gathered, and
evaluated in late winter/spring of 2023.
17 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
FY 2023 Hours/Budget:
Total Budget: $10,000 (Federal - $8,000)
MPO Staff Hours: 196
18 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Element 3 – Transit Planning
Objective: Enhance a coordinated, accessible, and efficient transit system.
Primary FY 2022 Accomplishments:
Human service/transportation provider coordination meetings and plan updates
Coordinated planning and meetings with human service organizations
Safety Plan Development & Certification
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Program Monitoring
Disadvantage Business Enterprise (DBE) Goals Development and semi-annual reports
Transit Service Planning (i.e. route planning, battery electric bus project planning)
Transit Management Analysis Planning (i.e. transit policies during COVID-19)
Capital Planning
Metropolitan (Long Range) Transportation Plan Development (transit side)
Transit Asset Management (TAM) Plan (performance measures, annual National Transit
Database narrative & performance targets updates)
Title VI Program Monitoring
Bus Stop Planning & ADA Planning (i.e. bus shelters, automatic annunciators)
Triennial Review Virtual Development & Submission
Note, all activities from FY 2022 were completed for this task.
Description:
Planning efforts will reflect prioritization of the following areas:
Transit Agency Safety Plan annual updates
Transit Asset Management Plan, performance measures, annual narrative & performance
target updates on an annual basis.
Transportation Planning Work Program Development
Transportation Improvement Program Development
ADA Planning updates (Automatic Annunciators, Infotainment and LED Signage, Dial-A-Ride
Service Planning, Dial-A-Ride Surveys)
Title VI Program and Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Plan updates; planning services/programs
with out regard to race, color or national origin
Equal Employment Opportunity Program update
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise goals submission
Federal compliance reviews regarding Federal Transit Administration regulations
Transit Service Planning for updated route planning & ridership studies
Transit Management Analysis for transit policy modifications
Participation of transit in metropolitan and statewide planning
19 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Coordination with non-emergency human service transportation organizations to improve
transportation service for the low-income, aging and disabled populations within Ames
Make transit capital investment decisions through effective system planning
Bus stop planning for future ADA improvements
Technology planning (automatic vehicle annunciators (AVAs), automatic passenger counters
(APCs), etc.) and data analysis
Facility expansion analysis
System Redesign recalibration efforts with possible federal funding and when to implement
based on possible new normal of transit ridership levels.
MOU update between CyRide and the Ames Area MPO
Develop CyRide Climate Action Plan to reflect transit board desires
This item involves transit planning issues related to land use and development issues, facility
expansion analysis, ridership surveys and analyses, plans to manage transit agency in accordance
with the Federal Transit Administration guidelines, and the study of fixed route transit services.
Meetings will be held to facilitate the locally developed coordinated public transit/human-services
transportation plan to improve transportation services for the low-income, aging, and disabled
populations within the community. Efforts will concentrate on improving operating efficiencies of
current services and eliminating gaps where and when transportation is not available. The
transportation planner may conduct various planning and ridership studies throughout the year to
ensure compliance with federal regulations. The safety officer will also update the safety plan
annually through a coordinated process with front line staff.
FY 2023 Products:
Various transit plans as required, administration and audits of the following programs requiring
annual certifications by the transit agency: Equal Employment Opportunity Program (EEO), Title
VI Program, Limited English Proficiency (LEP), Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), Transit
Asset Management Plan, CyRide Safety & Security Plan, Federal Audits/Reviews.
Update 2020-2023 Ames Area MPO Passenger Transportation Plan (PTP) as needed; monthly
coordination of transit with various human & health service organization groups
Capital/Financial planning to analyze fleet, facility, and technology needs for five-year period.
Transit Asset Management Plan Update, annual performance targets & narrative report to FTA
Transit Service Planning for current/new services or ridership studies
Transit Management Analysis of current/new policies
Long-term facility expansion studies
Bus stop amenities & technology planning
Safety Plan review/update and performance measures
Equal Employment Opportunity Program monitoring
Disadvantages Business Enterprise Goals FFY2023-FFY2025
Automatic Passenger Count Research Project Final Report
MPO-CyRide MOU Update
20 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
CyRide Climate Action Plan or short-term/long-term goals
FY 2023 Schedule:
Activities for this work element will be ongoing throughout the fiscal year unless noted below.
DBE Goals to the Federal Transit Administration by 8/1/2022
Title VI Program Update and Limited English Proficiency Plan due to the Federal Transit
Administration by 10/1/2022
TAM Plan and performance targets due to AAMPO by 10/1/2022; TAM Plan narrative to FTA
through NTD by 10/1/2022
Passenger Transportation Plan minutes due to Iowa DOT by 7/1/2022
Automatic Passenger Count Research Project Final Report due to FTA by 6/30/2023
Safety Plan review/update complete in August then targets provided to AAMPO by 10/1/2022.
MPO-CyRide MOU Update due in December/January 2023 prior to CyRide’s next triennial
review.
CyRide Climate Action Plan due by April 2023
FY 2023 Hours/Budget:
Total Budget: $50,000 (Federal - $40,000)
MPO Staff Hours: 765
21 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Element 4 – Comprehensive Planning
Objective: Integrate transportation planning and land-use planning for Ames Area MPO member
jurisdictions.
Primary FY 2022 Accomplishments:
Provided technical assistance and support to local agencies for various transportation studies
and projects (including speed studies, traffic studies, etc.)
Performed traffic modeling for various projects and studies
Assessed and analyzed region-wide transportation data sets for general trends in volumes,
vehicle speeds, origin-destination behavior, etc.
Coordination with the City of Ames for implementing Phases 1 and 2 of their ITS Master Plan
Note, all activities from FY 2022 were completed for this work element. In FY 2023, activities related to
the collection and analyzation of transportation data now fall under Work Element 6 (Transportation
Data) under the “Data Management” work activity.
Description:
Participate in regional activities which enhance the transportation network including collaboration with
local transportation activities, technical assistance for member agencies, and other activities which are
promoting a comprehensive planning approach.
FY 2023 Products:
Provide technical assistance to local agencies incorporating regional transportation goals and
objectives into comprehensive, sub-area, capital improvement, and other local plans
Perform traffic modeling (Microsimulation, Synchro, SIDRA, etc.) to support local studies and
projects as needed
Coordinate with the City of Ames on its ITS Phase 1-3 projects (and update Regional ITS
Architecture document as needed).
Coordination with the City of Ames in the development of their Climate Action Plan
Coordination with the City of Ames in the development of their Bicycle-Pedestrian Master Plan
Updates to Safe Routes to School maps as needed
Analyze potential alternative funding sources
FY 2023 Schedule:
Activities for this work element will be ongoing throughout the fiscal year.
FY 2023 Hours/Budget:
Total Budget: $25,000 (Federal - $20,000)
MPO Staff Hours: 491
22 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Element 5 – Long-Range Transportation Planning
Objective: Provide framework for long-term orderly and efficient growth of an integrated, multi-modal
transportation network.
Primary FY 2022 Accomplishments:
Utilized the Regional Travel Demand Model for use in long-range planning and forecasting
Ensured regional transportation efforts and projects conform with the 2045 Metropolitan
Transportation Plan, “Forward 45”.
Note, all activities from FY 2022 were completed for this work element.
Description:
The 2045 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (known as “Forward 45”) became effective on October 27,
2020. To support the activities of this Metropolitan Transportation Plan, AAMPO will continue to
monitor and update the plan, as necessary. AAMPO will continue to ensure that ongoing planning
efforts and regional transportation projects confer with the 2045 Metropolitan Transportation Plan.
AAMPO staff will also continue to maintain and utilize the Travel Demand Model for long-range
planning and forecasting.
FY 2023 Products:
Monitor and update the 2045 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (“Forward 45”) as needed and
ensure that all regional transportation efforts and projects continue to conform with the
regional planning goals and projects outlined in the Metropolitan Transportation Plan.
Maintain and utilize the Travel Demand Model for use in long-range planning and forecasting.
Prepare for the 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan update.
FY 2023 Schedule:
Activities for this work element will be ongoing throughout the fiscal year.
FY 2023 Hours/Budget:
Total Budget: $10,000 (Federal - $8,000)
MPO Staff Hours: 196
23 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Element 6 – Transportation Data
Objective: Obtain and leverage transportation datasets and utilize data analytics to strengthen
performance-based planning efforts in the region.
Primary FY 2022 Accomplishments:
Procured a subscription/contract with StreetLight Data, Inc. for a transportation data service
platform which provides access to regionwide multi-modal (vehicle, truck, bicycle, pedestrian,
transit, socioeconomic) transportation data sets as well as various analytical capabilities.
Obtained access to the Strava Metro platform, which provides regionwide aggregated data
using Strava user activity data (pedestrians, runners, and bicyclists).
Note, all activities from FY 2022 were completed for this work element (which previously was named
“Data Services”). Note that any activities relating to the collection and analyzation of transportation
data were previously reported under Work Element 4 (Comprehensive Planning).
Description:
Rapidly emerging technologies have allowed for new forms and quantities of transportation data and
new powerful analytical capabilities. The Ames Area MPO will explore and leverage these new
transportation datasets and analytical capabilities to farther performance-based planning efforts for all
modes of transportation throughout the region. The MPO will also continue to leverage more
traditional data sources such as field sensors, travel surveys, and census data. In addition to using
transportation data for its own planning efforts and planning document updates, the MPO will also
seek to make its data available to its member agencies, members of the pubic, as well as other regional
stakeholders.
FY 2023 Products:
Maintain and leverage existing subscriptions/contracts with transportation data and analytics
service providers.
Explore new potential transportation data and analytics sources and procure new services or
devices as needed.
Perform data collection as needed.
Aid with the maintenance of member agency’s transportation datasets and assets as needed.
Assess and analyze available region-wide datasets for any trends in vehicle speeds, travel times,
origin-destination behavior, socioeconomics, multi-modal data, or vehicle volumes.
Provide access to the MPO’s transportation data for member agencies, citizens, and other MPO
stakeholders.
FY 2023 Schedule:
Activities for this work element will be ongoing throughout the fiscal year.
24 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
FY 2023 Hours/Budget:
Total Budget: $109,000 (Federal - $87,200)
MPO Staff Hours: 196
Data Management
This activity within the work element’s budget is dedicated to the MPO staff time used for completing
the various tasks described in this work element.
Budget: $10,000 (Federal - $8,000)
MPO Staff Hours: 196
Data Procurement Activity
This activity within the work element’s budget is dedicated to the procurement of transportation
datasets or sensors as well as data analytics platforms.
Total Budget: $99,000 (Federal - $79,200)
MPO Staff Hours: 0
25 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Element 7 – Special Studies
Objective: To further the region’s transportation planning goals and objectives, as defined in the
MPO’s Metropolitan Transportation Plan, through special studies undertaken by MPO staff or
consultants.
Primary FY 2022 Accomplishments:
N/A (This work element was not present in the FY22 TPWP. Additionally, this work element is
not intended to be reoccurring.)
Description:
The Ames Area MPO’s current Metropolitan Transportation Plan “Forward 45” identified several policy
options, strategies, and studies that should be prioritized to augment the goals, priorities, and projects
defined in the plan. Two of the studies identified where a study of S Duff Ave (US Highway 69) from S
16th St to Airport Road and a study of the 190th Street corridor from George Washington Carver Ave to
US Highway 69.
FY 2023 Products:
Conduct and complete a study of S Duff Ave from S 16th St to Airport Rd, as identified and
described in the current MTP.
Conduct and complete a study of 190th St from George Washing Carver Ave to US Highway 69,
as identified and described in the current MTP.
FY 2023 Hours/Budget:
Total Budget: $194,000 (Federal - $155,200)
MPO Staff Hours: 78
S Duff Ave & US 30 Interchange Study (S 16th St – Airport Rd)
This portion of the work element’s budget is dedicated to the solicitation, selection, and payment of a
consultant for the US Highway 69 and US Highway 30 Interchange Study.
Budget: $127,000 (Federal - $101,600)
MPO Staff Hours: 39
Ames North Growth Intersections Study
This portion of the work element’s budget is dedicated to the solicitation, selection, and payment of a
consultant for the Ames North Growth Intersections (190th St Corridor) Study.
Budget: $67,000 (Federal - $53,600)
MPO Staff Hours: 39
26 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
4 – FY 2023 Budget Summary
4.1 Budget & Staff Hours Summary
Table 2 shows a breakdown of the seven work elements including their budget totals, funding sources,
and MPO staff hours by activity. Table 3 shows a breakdown of the budgeted unobligated federal
funds by funding source. AAMPO has budgeted a total of $448,000 for FY 2023 across all work
elements, $358,400 of which will come from federal funding sources. There is a total of $42,928 in
budgeted unobligated federal funds. There are 2,707 staff hours budgeted for MPO staff. This budget
conforms to the MPO/RPA Carryover Policy (Appendix D). Note that FHWA program funding is
transferred to FTA and merged with FTA funds into a consolidated planning grant.
Table 2: Budget and Funding Source Summary
Federal Funding Source
Work Element Activity
MPO
Staff
Hours
FTA
5305d
Carryover
FTA
5305d
New
FHWA PL
Carryover
FHWA PL
New
Total
Federal
Funding
Local
Match
Total
Funding
1 - Administration Admin 785 $3,582 -$22,292 $14,126 $40,000 $10,000 $50,000
2 - TIP TIP 196 $716 -$4,458 $2,825 $8,000 $2,000 $10,000
3 - Transit Planning Transit
Planning 765 $3,582 $14,126 $22,292 -$40,000 $10,000 $50,000
4 - Comprehensive
Planning Comp Planning 491 $1,791 -$11,146 $7,063 $20,000 $5,000 $25,000
5 - Long Range
Planning
Long-Range
Planning 196 $716 -$4,458 $2,825 $8,000 $2,000 $10,000
Data
Management 196 $716 -$4,458 $2,825 $8,000 $2,000 $10,0006 - Transportation
Data Data
Procurement -$7,093 -$44,138 $27,969 $79,200 $19,800 $99,000
US 69 & US 30
Interchange
Study
39 $9,099 -$56,622 $35,879 $101,600 $25,400 $127,000
7 - Special Studies Ames North
Growth
Intersections
Study
39 $4,800 -$29,871 $18,928 $53,600 $13,400 $67,000
FY23 Budget Totals 2,707 $32,098 $14,126 $199,737 $112,439 $358,400 $89,600 $448,000
Table 3: Unobligated Funds
FTA 5305d
Carryover
FTA 5305d
New
FHWA PL
Carryover
FHWA PL
New TOTAL
Starting Available Balance $ 32,098 $ 44,866 $199,737 $124,627 $ 401,328
Programmed $ 32,098 $ 14,126 $199,737 $112,439 $ 358,400
Unobligated Funds $ - $ 30,740 $ - $ 12,188 $ 42,928
27 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
4.2 Cost Allocation Plan
The City of Ames is the primary fiscal agent for AAMPO. The local match for salaries and other
expenses is a part of the City of Ames Program Budget, adopted by the City of Ames City Council for all
personnel and associated expenses. Costs billed will be for those specified. The main source of local-
match funds will come from the City of Ames Road Use Tax allocation. New FY 2023 funds have been
combined with the carryover amounts for expense allocations. Carryover funds will be used first before
new allocations. The Ames Area MPO does not charge indirect costs.
A vendor will be selected in the procurement of a web-based transportation data and analytical
platform as a part of the data procurement activity within Work Element 6 (Transportation Data).
Additionally, consultants will be selected for each of the two studies identified in Work Element 7
(Special Studies).
AAMPO certifies that any procurement process and consultant selection will adhere to all applicable
requirements (see Appendix B).
28 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
5 – Revisions to the Transportation Planning Work Program
The work program is developed annually, however, it can be amended at any time throughout the life
of the document. The following section outlines the process to be used to amend the work program.
5.1 Overview
2 CFR 200 describes the uniform administrative rules for Federal grants and cooperative agreements
and subawards to State, local and Indian tribal governments. These requirements apply to
metropolitan planning (PL) and State Planning and Research (SPR) grants. FTA has similar
requirements documented in FTA Circular 5010.1D, which apply to FTA metropolitan planning grants.
Iowa uses a Consolidated Planning Grant where FHWA and FTA planning funds are combined into a
single fund managed through FTA’s TrAMS system. The uses of these funds are documented in the
work programs of the Iowa DOT, MPOs, and RPAs.
5.2 Waiver of Approvals
All work program changes require prior written Federal approval, unless waived by the awarding
agency. 2 CFR § 200.308 outlines different types of revisions for budget and program plans, and this
FHWA memo on prior approvals summarizes revisions that require prior Federal approval, as well as
other miscellaneous actions and allowable costs that require prior Federal approval.
Types of TPWP revisions that require Federal approval include, but are not limited to, the following:
Request for additional Federal funding.
Transfers of funds between categories, projects, functions, or activities which exceed 10% of
the total work program budget when the Federal share of the budget exceeds $150,000.
Revision of the scope or objectives of activities.
Transferring substantive programmatic work to a third party (consultant).
Capital expenditures, including the purchasing of equipment.
Transfer of funds allotted for training allowances.
Types of revisions that require Iowa DOT approval include:
Transfers of funds between categories, projects, functions, or activities which do not exceed
10% of the total work program budget, or when the Federal share of the budget is less than
$150,000.
Types of revisions that require MPO/RPA approval include:
Revisions related to work that does not involve federal funding.
29 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
5.3 Revision and Approval Procedures
All revision requests from MPOs and RPAs should be submitted electronically to the Iowa DOT Systems
Planning Bureau and the agency’s Iowa DOT District Planner. If all necessary information is provided,
the request will then be forwarded to the FHWA and FTA for review and any necessary approvals.
Revision requests shall, at a minimum, include:
o A resolution or meeting minutes showing the revision’s approval.
o Budget summary table with changes highlighted/noted.
o Modified section(s) of the plan’s work elements with changes highlighted/noted.
Revisions where FHWA/FTA is the designated approving agency shall require written approval by
FHWA/FTA prior to commencement of activity, purchasing of equipment, or request for
reimbursement.
Revisions where the Iowa DOT Systems Planning Bureau is the designated approving agency shall
require written approval by the Iowa DOT Systems Planning Bureau prior to commencement of
activity, purchasing of equipment, or request for reimbursement.
Revisions where the MPO or RPA is the approving agency shall be approved by the Policy Board.
Notification by the approving agency will be in writing.
NOTE: All necessary TPWP approvals shall be in place prior to the commencement of activity,
purchasing of equipment, or request for reimbursement. More specifically, regarding the procurement
of equipment and services, there should be no notification of award, signed contract, placement of an
order, or agreement with a contractor prior to receiving the necessary TPWP approvals.
30 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Appendix A – Resolution of Approval
<Insert resolution of approval here.>
31 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Appendix B – Self-Certification of Procurement and Consultation
Selection Procedures
<Insert Self-Certification of Procurement and Consultation Selection Procedures here.>
32 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Appendix C – Performance Management Agreement
On May 27, 2016, the final rule for statewide and metropolitan transportation planning was published, based on
2012’s Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP-21) Act and 2015’s Fixing America’s Transportation
System (FAST) Act. As part of this final rule, 23 CFR § 450.314 (h) was amended to state:
(h)(1) The MPO(s), State(s), and the providers of public transportation shall jointly agree upon and
develop specific written provisions for cooperatively developing and sharing information related to
transportation performance data, the selection of performance targets, the reporting of performance
targets, the reporting of performance to be used in tracking progress toward attainment of critical
outcomes for the region of the MPO (see §450.306(d)), and the collection of data for the State asset
management plan for the NHS for each of the following circumstances:
(i) When one MPO serves an urbanized area;
(ii) When more than one MPO serves an urbanized area; and
(iii) When an urbanized area that has been designated as a TMA overlaps into an adjacent MPA
serving an urbanized area that is not a TMA.
(2) These provisions shall be documented either:
(i) As part of the metropolitan planning agreements required under paragraphs (a), (e), and (g)
of this section; or
(ii) Documented in some other means outside of the metropolitan planning agreements as
determined cooperatively by the MPO(s), State(s), and providers of public transportation.
In 2017, the following three-pronged approach was cooperatively developed to address 23 CFR § 450.314 (h).
This approach provides a regular opportunity to review and update coordination methods as performance
management activities occur, which offers an adaptable framework as performance-based planning and
programming evolves.
Agreement between the Iowa DOT and MPOs on applicable provisions through documentation
included in each MPO’s TPWP.
Agreement between the Iowa DOT and relevant public transit agencies on applicable provisions
through documentation included in each public transit agency’s consolidated funding application.
Agreement between each MPO and relevant public transit agencies on applicable provisions through
documentation included in the appropriate cooperative agreement(s) between the MPO and relevant
public transit agencies.
Inclusion of the following language in an MPO’s TPWP, and that TPWP’s subsequent approval by Iowa DOT,
constitutes agreement on these items.
The Iowa DOT and Ames Area MPO agree to the following provisions. The communication outlined in these
provisions between the MPO and Iowa DOT will generally be through the metropolitan and regional planning
coordinator in the Systems Planning Bureau.
1) Transportation performance data
a. The Iowa DOT will provide MPOs with the statewide performance data used in developing
statewide targets, and, when applicable, will also provide MPOs with subsets of the statewide
data, based on their planning area boundaries.
b. If MPOs choose to develop their own target for any measure, they will provide the Iowa DOT
with any supplemental data they utilize in the target-setting process.
33 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
2) Selection of performance targets
a. The Iowa DOT will develop draft statewide performance targets for FHWA measures in
coordination with MPOs. Coordination may include in-person meetings, web meetings,
conference calls, and/or email communication. MPOs shall be given an opportunity to provide
comments on statewide targets and methodology before final statewide targets are adopted.
b. If an MPO chooses to adopt their own target for any measure, they will develop draft MPO
performance targets in coordination with the Iowa DOT. Coordination methods will be at the
discretion of the MPO, but the Iowa DOT shall be provided an opportunity to provide comments
on draft MPO performance targets and methodology prior to final approval.
3) Reporting of performance targets
a. Iowa DOT performance targets will be reported to FHWA and FTA, as applicable. MPOs will be
notified when Iowa DOT has reported final statewide targets.
b. MPO performance targets will be reported to the Iowa DOT.
i. For each target, the MPO will provide the following information no later than 180 days
after the date the Iowa DOT or relevant provider of public transportation establishes
performance targets, or the date specified by federal code.
1. A determination of whether the MPO is 1) agreeing to plan and program
projects so that they contribute toward the accomplishment of the Iowa DOT or
relevant provider of public transportation performance target, or 2) setting a
quantifiable target for that performance measure for the MPO’s planning area.
2. If a quantifiable target is set for the MPO planning area, the MPO will provide
any supplemental data used in determining any such target.
3. Documentation of the MPO’s target or support of the statewide or relevant
public transportation provider target will be provided in the form of a resolution
or meeting minutes.
c. The Iowa DOT will include information outlined in 23 CFR § 450.216 (f) in any statewide
transportation plan amended or adopted after May 27, 2018, and information outlined in 23
CFR § 450.218 (q) in any statewide transportation improvement program amended or adopted
after May 27, 2018.
d. MPOs will include information outlined in 23 CFR § 450.324 (f) (3-4) in any metropolitan
transportation plan amended or adopted after May 27, 2018, and information outlined in 23
CFR § 450.326 (d) in any transportation improvement program amended or adopted after May
27, 2018.
e. Reporting of targets and performance by the Iowa DOT and MPOs shall conform to 23 CFR §
490, 49 CFR § 625, and 49 CFR § 673.
4) Reporting of performance to be used in tracking progress toward attainment of critical outcomes for
the region of the MPO
a. The Iowa DOT will provide MPOs with the statewide performance data used in developing
statewide targets, and, when applicable, will also provide MPOs with subsets of the statewide
data, based on their planning area boundaries.
5) The collection of data for the State asset management plans for the NHS
a. The Iowa DOT will be responsible for collecting bridge and pavement condition data for the
State asset management plan for the NHS.
34 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Appendix D – MPO/RPA Carryover Policy
Background
Each year, federal planning funds from both the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and Federal
Transit Administration (FTA) are combined into a new consolidated planning grant (CPG) under the
FTA. This includes all federal transportation funds that are utilized by metropolitan planning
organizations (MPOs) and regional planning affiliations (RPAs) in Iowa for planning, including FHWA
metropolitan planning (PL), state planning and research (SPR), and surface transportation block grant
(STBG) funds and FTA 5305d, 5305e, and 5311 funds. The FHWA funding sources are transferred to
FTA for inclusion in the CPG, and once funds are part of an awarded CPG, they are unable to be
deobligated for other purposes.
Carryover is defined as any unspent funding that has been targeted to the agency but is not included in
the agency’s current state fiscal year (SFY) budget. During the Transportation Planning Work Program
(TPWP) development cycle, carryover ‘targets’ that show the current balances of carryover funding are
provided to the agency along with targets for new federal funding. However, it should be noted that
an agency does not have to wait for the next TPWP cycle to utilize carryover funding if there are
anticipated needs in the current fiscal year. Unbudgeted funding is available to the planning agency to
be amended into its budget at any time. Unspent funding from the prior SFY is available to the
planning agency to be amended into its budget following close-out of the prior SFY.
When developing the TPWP, agencies are required to program carryover funding before programming
new funding. When reimbursement requests are submitted to the Iowa Department of Transportation
(DOT), payments are made by utilizing the oldest funding source in the agency’s planning agreement.
Funding is drawn down first by age, then sequentially by source. This helps streamline bookkeeping
and ensure that funding within older CPGs is utilized prior to funding within newer CPGs.
Since MPOs and RPAs are allowed to carry over unused federal planning funds rather than being
required to draw them down within a fiscal year, multiple CPGs are open at any given time. FTA has
asked Iowa DOT to ensure funds are being drawn down in a timely manner and to work to limit the
number of CPGs that are open. Furthermore, the new grant management system FTA launched in
2016 requires additional documentation and justification to keep a grant open past its original end
date.
In order to satisfy FTA while still providing flexibility to MPOs and RPAs, Iowa DOT has implemented
internal steps to reduce the number of CPGs that are open and has also developed the policy outlined
below. Internal steps that Iowa DOT has taken include discussing the necessity of STBG transfers with
individual agencies when substantial carryover balances exist, and evaluating planning agreements and
amending them if necessary early in the SFY to ensure any older funding that was unspent in the
previous SFY is utilized prior to newer funding. The MPO/RPA carryover policy, which is outlined
below, took effect as part of the SFY 2018 TPWP cycle.
35 | P a g e
FY2023 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
The internal changes and the MPO/RPA carryover policy will help Iowa DOT manage carryover balances
that have become problematic for a small number of planning agencies. Over time, reduced carryover
balances will allow Iowa DOT to maintain fewer open CPGs. In addition, the policy will prevent
unnecessary funding transfers from FHWA to FTA, thus enabling SPR and STBG funding to be used
more efficiently.
MPO/RPA Carryover Policy
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA MARCH 8, 2022
The Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor John Haila at 6:00 p.m.
on March 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, and Anita Rollins. Ex officio Member Trevor Poundstone was absent. Council Member Junk
arrived at 6:01 p.m.
CONSENT AGENDA: Mayor Haila stated that staff had requested to pull Item 5: Motion
approving new 12-Month Class B Native Wine Permit - Oak Lane Candle Co., LLC, 121 Main
Street, from the Agenda.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Betcher, 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 February 10, 2022, February
15, 2022, and February 28, 2022, and Regular City Council Meeting held February 22, 2022
3.Motion approving Report of Change Orders for period February 16 - 28, 2022
4.Motion certifying Civil Service candidates
5.Motion approving renewal of the following Beer Permits, Wine Permits and Liquor Licenses:
a.Class E Liquor License with Sunday Sales - Tobacco Outlet Plus #530, 204 S Duff
b.Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit, Class C Beer Permit (carryout beer), and
Sunday Sales - Wal-Mart Store #749, 3105 Grand Avenue
6.RESOLUTION NO. 22-106 approving appointments to various Boards and Commissions
7.RESOLUTION NO. 22-107 setting March 22, 2022, as date of public hearing to vacate public
utility and water main easements at 1915 Philadelphia Street
8.RESOLUTION NO. 22-108 approving Encroachment Permit Agreement with Tonya Rock
Photography for a Sign at 300 Main Street
9.Request for Greek Week:
a.Greek Week Olympics, Saturday, April 2, 2022, with April 3, 2022, as rain date
i.Motion approving blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit for the closed area
ii.RESOLUTION NO. 22-109 approving closure of Ash Avenue, Lynn Avenue, Sunset
Drive, Gray Avenue, Greeley Street, and Pearson Avenue from 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
on April 2
10.RESOLUTION NO. 22-110 approving preliminary plans and specifications for 2021/22 Shared
Use Path Maintenance - Little Bluestem; setting April 20, 2022, as bid due date and April 26,
2022, as date of public hearing
11.RESOLUTION NO. 22-111 approving preliminary plans and specifications for 2022/23 Main
Street Paver Replacement Program (Kellogg Avenue - Douglas Avenue and Douglas Avenue -
Duff Avenue); setting April 20, 2022, as bid due date and April 26, 2022, as date of public
hearing
12.Secondary Disc Screen Rollers:
a.RESOLUTION NO. 22-112 waiving Purchasing Policies pertaining to formal bidding
b.RESOLUTION NO. 22-113 approving sole source purchase from Clarke’s Sheet Metal of
Eugene, Oregon, in the amount of $54,542 (including freight charges)
13.RESOLUTION NO. 22-114 approving contract and bond for 2021/22 Concrete Pavement
Improvements (S. Kellogg Avenue and N. 2nd Street)
14.RESOLUTION NO. 22-115 approving contract and bond for 2021/22 Downtown Street
Pavement Restoration - Alley (Duff Avenue to Sherman Avenue)
15.RESOLUTION NO. 22-116 accepting completion of 2020/21 Airport Improvements (Electrical
Vault)
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motions/Resolutions declared carried/adopted unanimously, signed by the
Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
Council Member Junck arrived at 6:01 p.m.
PUBLIC FORUM: Mayor Haila opened Public Forum. No one requested to speak, so he closed
Public Forum.
DISCUSSION OF ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS FOR RESIDENTIAL SATISFACTION
SURVEY: Public Relations Officer Susan Gwiasda advised that it was time for the annual
Residential Satisfaction Survey. She stated that before the entire process starts, she likes to present
the Survey to the Council to see if there are any recommended changes. Typically, the Survey is sent
out in April, and by July, staff has received the responses to the Survey with the final results being
presented in September.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen suggested dropping the “What would make Ames cool” question.
She wanted to add a question about people’s willingness to sort their waste stream. Ms. Beatty-
Hansen would like to see what kind of tolerance citizens would have to sorting their garbage.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Gartin, to add a question about garbage sorting and to
remove the “What Would Make Ames Cool” question from the Survey.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Council Member Junck said that in Section E, No. 8, of the Survey regarding the Ames Police
Department it said, “School Resource Officer Services,” and she suggested removing this line from
the Survey. She also recommended breaking up “Illegal drug use prevention and enforcement” as
she felt it would be valuable to have a separate line about marijuana because that item is policed
differently than other illegal drugs.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to remove the “School Resource Officer Services”
question and add a category for marijuana-related crime enforcement.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Council Member Rollins referred to Page 10 of the Survey under the “Your Health” section and
2
recommended combining question E and F, which would combine fruits and vegetables. She also
wanted to add a question that asked citizens about accessing mental health services related to stress
or feeling depressed.
Moved by Rollins, seconded by Betcher, to combine the section under “Your Health” regarding fruits
and vegetables (Page 10, Item E and F) and add a mental health question to the survey.
Ms. Gwiasda wanted to clarify if the mental health question should be about how the citizens felt
or if they accessed care. Council Member Beatty-Hansen mentioned that she preferred to ask how
the citizens felt. Ms. Rollins stated that it would be nice to know how the citizen felt and then have
another question to see if care was accessed.
Council Member Corrieri inquired if the question should be “During the last seven days did you feel
depressed.” She explained that feelings are a very point-in-time question and she was not sure if that
question would be a good gauge of mental health in the community.
Council Member Betcher wondered if the question should be “Have you accessed Mental Health
Resources within the last six months.” Ms. Gwiasda pointed out that a lot of the other questions refer
to the past seven days and that would be a change. She stated that the Council needs to think of what
information they are trying to obtain and how a question can be formulated to get the information
that the Council is seeking. Ms. Rollins explained that the goal is to see if people have suffered from
depression and if they have accessed any resources. Council Member Corrieri stated that it would
be good to know if people have felt they needed to access professional mental health care resources.
She suggested that there be two questions: 1) If you felt you needed professional mental health
resources; and 2) If you accessed professional mental health resources. Ms. Gwiasda mentioned that
she could leave it as an open ended question.
Council Member Gartin said that Ms. Rollins’ question was actually asking “How would you rate
your health.” Within the past few years they have learned that mental health is part of physical
health. If the Council is going to ask a specific mental health question, there should also be a
question asking “How would you rate your physical health.”
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Council Member Betcher said that she would be interested in replacing the Letter E question under
“Sense of Community” stating “What would make you feel welcomed and have a sense of belonging
in Ames?” with “What could the City do to demonstrate its commitment to Diversity, Equity, and
Inclusion.” She stated that she believed there was a difference in whether people felt welcomed or
not and whether the City is doing enough to show that it is committed.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to replace the Letter E question under “Sense of
Community” from “What would make you feel welcomed and have a sense of belonging in Ames?”
to “What could the City do to demonstrate its commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.”
3
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Council Member Rollins asked if the Survey came in different languages. Ms. Gwiasda stated it did
not. She said that she had never received any calls regarding offering the Survey in another language.
Ms. Rollins suggested having the Survey available in the three other main languages. It was
discussed to have something in the Mayor’s letter about having the availability to obtain the Survey
in a different language.
CONTRACTS FOR ARTS CAPITAL GRANT PROGRAM: Assistant City Manager Brian
Phillips explained that this was a new Program that was implemented in the past year. A team of
representatives from the Public Art Commission (PAC) and the Commission on the Arts (COTA)
volunteered to evaluate the applications and made recommendations. A total of 11 applications were
received, and after review, the evaluation team recommended awards to seven proposals. Granting
the awards to the seven proposals will exhaust the $200,000 available funding. Staff had prepared
Contracts and held an orientation session for all the proposed awardees. Mr. Phillips said that all the
proposed awardees have returned their Contracts. There are some unique projects that will
potentially be moving forward with the Council’s approval. All projects are to be completed by June
30, 2023.
Council Member Betcher asked if the Council would have any means to find out what the outcomes
were for each project. Mr. Phillips indicated that as part of the Contracts, each of the recipients will
be required to receive the Council’s approval in order to close out their project. Staff will be bringing
information back to the Council with photos and updates on the projects.
Mayor Haila opened public input and closed it when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-117 approving the seven
Contracts for the Arts Capital Grant Program, in accordance with the recommendations provided by
the review committee.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0-1. Voting Aye: Beatty-Hansen, Betcher, Corrieri, Junck, Rollins. Voting Nay:
None. Abstaining due to a Conflict of Interest: Gartin. Resolution declared adopted, signed by the
Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
REQUEST FROM CAMERON GRAY REGARDING SCULPTURAL FREE LIBRARY TO
BE PLACED ON CITY PROPERTY: Assistant City Manager Brian Phillips noted that the
Council had previously received a memo outlining the basic details of the proposed project that was
brought forth by Cameron Gray. Staff had identified a few questions that had come up if the Council
wanted to proceed with the placement of the sculptural free library on City property. Information was
provided to the Council on how this project may interact with some of the City’s existing Programs.
The proposal from Mr. Gray is unique as it is a combination of art and a free library, and the City
has programs for those two items, but separately.
4
Council Member Beatty-Hansen mentioned that she had spoken with Mr. Gray about some of the
issues. One of the questions was regarding ownership of the structure. Ms. Beatty-Hansen indicated
that when she spoke with Mr. Gray, it sounded as if he would be okay with the City eventually
owning the structure. If the structure belonged to the City, it would take away some of the issues
described in the Staff Report. She wanted to confirm with Mr. Gray that he was comfortable with
the City owning the structure. The other topic was who would stock the free library and she was told
that Mr. Gray would initially stock it and then the community would help to make sure that the free
library was continually stocked.
Council Member Gartin stated it would be helpful to partner with organizations who have the
structures that are already in place such as: Parks and Recreation, the Public Art Commission, and
Raising Readers. If the structure was donated to the City, he would be in favor of it.
Council Member Betcher asked about the Raising Readers partnership and if there were rules to
specify what the other free libraries can do. Parks and Recreation Director Keith Abraham
commented that there are no regulations for colors or designs, and generally the free libraries are on
a post, but have not discussed any further details.
Mayor Haila asked if there was a written policy or had it just been verbally communicated. Director
Abraham stated that Raising Readers had worked with United Way to build the free libraries and
give them to Parks and Recreation staff to install. If one of the free libraries gets damaged, staff lets
Raising Readers know and they repair it, but nothing has been done formally.
Mayor Haila opened public input.
Cameron Gray, 505 Northwestern Avenue, Ames, thanked the Council for looking through his
proposal. He noted he is committed to working with the Council to make the proposal happen. Mr.
Gray felt this project could show that the City is acknowledging the presence of the black
community. It was mentioned that Mr. Gray would be open to the City owning the structure;
however, he was worried that over time the structure would be torn down. He didn’t want to have
the obelisk built only for it to be torn down five years later. Mr. Gray said that he would be happy
to do a five-year contract with renewal options.
Mayor Haila asked staff if the sculpture would become an art piece. Mr. Phillips explained staff has
not talked with the Public Art Commission (PAC) regarding this project. PAC has a couple of
Programs that they operate and solicit proposals for. This proposal is unique as it is the artist coming
up with a proposal rather than the other way around. There is a set of policies with PAC regarding
acquisition of donated pieces. Mr. Phillips said there was a possibility of structuring an Agreement
similar to a loan, where the City would take custody of the piece for a period of time and then turn
it back over to Mr. Gray. Director Abraham stated another thing to consider is the parks system. He
indicated that every year the Parks and Recreation Department gets requests from adjacent property
owners to place items in the Parks, and he wanted to make the Council aware that random requests
are made throughout the year. He would like to make sure there is a distinction between artwork and
5
“other” items. Council Member Beatty-Hansen commented that defining the structure as a free
library would be helpful.
Council Member Gartin asked what the obelisk would be made from. Mr. Gray stated that he has
hired an architect to help him build the obelisk to make sure it could stand up to all types of weather.
The Mayor inquired about restocking books and what Raising Readers’ policy was for content and
variety of books. Director Abraham said that the City does not dictate what types of books are put
in besides age appropriate books. There is one individual from Raising Readers that does go through
the free libraries and restocks the books and takes out anything inappropriate. Director Abraham
suggested having a conversation between Mr. Gray and Raising Readers to discuss how to get more
diversity in the free libraries throughout the system. Mr. Gray indicated that he has already started
collecting books and felt that Raising Readers would be able to help him find picture books showing
black heritage. He wants to have books available for kids, teens, and adults. Mayor Haila noted that
the Council is supportive of the project, but will refer to staff to obtain the rest of the details.
Mayor Haila closed public input when no one else came forward to speak.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Junck, direct staff to meet further with Mr. Gray, work out
the ownership details as well as any structural requirements, and work on a Memorandum of
Understanding.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
STAFF REPORT ON AFFORDABLE HOUSING FOR OR RELATED TO THE ANNEX
GROUP: Planning and Housing Director Kelly Diekmann noted that this item was in response to
a referral request from the Annex Group requesting the City Council to establish an Urban Renewal
Area (URA) to provide a tax abatement incentive in support of its planned 192-unit affordable
housing project located within Hayden’s Preserve (formerly Rose Prairie) development. The
approved Hayden’s Preserve Master Plan for the site allows for the development of up to 192
apartment units spread across two sites and with limitations on the mix of bedrooms and sizes. The
Annex Group’s desire is to apply for a 4% Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) project with
100% of the units as affordable units to households making 60% or less of the average median
income (AMI) for Ames for a period of 30 years. The City has no current policy pertaining to
providing incentives for affordable housing beyond the use of its CDBG and HOME funds. Director
Diekmann commented that the Annex Group desired direction from the Council on its willingness
to establish an URA for future tax abatement. At this time there is no policy in place to guide the
City Council in determining which affordable housing projects should qualify for a tax abatement
incentive. An affordable housing strategy is planned for later this year, which should identify targets,
project eligibility criteria, and incentives. Staff’s early assessment of the proposed project indicated
that the location’s lack of services, public transportation, and higher tax rates are negatives for the
project. Director Diekmann stated that if the Council wanted to move forward, it would be just to
direct staff to continue conversations with the Annex Group; it would not approve anything. The
question before Council is if they want to look at this project as an opportunity right now or to wait
6
and see how the affordable housing strategy will line up with this particular location.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen said that the creation of the Strategy is scheduled for later in 2022.
She and wanted to know what the time estimate would be. Director Diekmann explained the Strategy
was added to the Work Plan about three weeks ago and the hope was to kick-off the Strategy in the
late summer with the first step being to identify the issues. Ms. Beatty-Hansen asked if the Annex
Group would have any issues with a delay. Director Diekmann mentioned that the Annex Group has
the option to purchase the land sometime in the Spring; the Subdivision is not complete yet. If the
Council did decide to work on the Strategy later in the fall, the Annex Group would need to see
about getting an extension to their purchase option.
Council Member Corrieri asked if any conversations had occurred with the Annex Group regarding
its project in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She noted that the project was similar in terms of size and what
was being requested. Director Diekmann said he had not, but the Annex Group did indicate that they
are accustomed to having a smaller tax rate or a tax abatement for their projects.
Council Member Gartin asked if staff was confident that all 192 units would be able to be filled.
Director Diekmann was sure that they would be filled. He commented that the apartments would be
built in phases. It was mentioned that there have not been any new apartments in the City for the past
several years. Director Diekmann said that all 192 units would be income-restricted at 60% or less
of the average median income.
Council Member Betcher commented that there were a lot of challenges with this proposal and she
loved the idea of having that many affordable units being brought to Ames, but it is an area that is
not readily served by CyRide. At this point, the Council doesn’t know what the assessment is, there
isn’t a lot of information available, and there is not a City Assessor. Ms. Betcher stated there were
a lot of unknowns and some challenges, which made her lean towards waiting for a Policy to be in
place first.
Council Member Corrieri said that she also believed the Council needed to have a policy in place.
She stated that whatever conversation that staff has with the developer should be to inform them that
the Council is trying to put a policy in place and would be interested in continuing to entertain a
potential project from them if they are able to extend their purchase option. Ms. Corrieri stated that
the Annex Group does have a history of affordable housing developments and this would be exciting
for the City of Ames.
Director Diekmann stated that he looked at the Planning and Housing’s Work Plan and the
Affordable Housing Strategy is slated to begin in September 2022. The Mayor asked, if the Annex
Group was interested in obtaining an extension, would there be any flexibility in moving the
Affordable Housing Strategy up on the list. Director Diekmann commented that the biggest task was
to start the Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance in the middle of this summer, and this would be a
project that could be moved back a few months. Council Member Beatty-Hansen asked if the
Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance and the Affordable Housing Strategy could trade priority levels
7
in the Work Plan.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Corrieri, to switch the Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance
task with the Affordable Housing Strategy in the Work Plan.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Betcher, to direct staff to communicate with the developer
that the City wants to work on its Affordable Housing Policy first, but is interested in their proposal
and the City is working to speed up the process of a new policy.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Council Member Gartin commented that he would like to have a conversation about having mixed
units incorporated into the policy discussion for affordable housing.
UPDATE ON STATUS OF THE LOW-INCOME HOUSING TAX CREDIT (LIHTC)
APPLICATION FOR MULTI-FAMILY HOUSING DEVELOPMENT IN THE BAKER
SUBDIVISION (321 STATE AVENUE): Housing Coordinator Vanessa Baker-Latimer stated that
in December 2020, the City entered into a partnership Agreement with Prairie Fire Corporation and
Builder’s Development Corporation to submit a Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC)
application to the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) for 37 multi-family housing units in the Baker
Subdivision (321 State Avenue). In late September 2021, staff learned that the 9% LIHTC
application was not funded due to the large group of disaster set-aside projects that absorbed most
of the funding allocation. However, staff was still hopeful as the developer was notified that the
governor’s priority was to allocate an additional $100 million dollars to affordable housing that the
State was eligible to receive through the US Treasury. Unfortunately, the final US Treasury
guidelines did not permit for the State to use the funds as they hoped. As a result, the State is only
using the funds for previously awarded LIHTC projects. Therefore, the Agreement with Prairie Fire
and Builder’s Development Corporation is no longer valid, and staff would like to know how to
proceed.
Ms. Baker-Latimer mentioned that the Staff Report listed four options for the Council to choose
from. She reviewed, in detail, what the four options were:
1.Submit an application for the next round of 9% LIHTC funding with the current developer.
2.Partner with the current developer as a 4% LIHTC project and grant local assistance of
approximately $2.9 million.
3.Partner with the current developer as a 4% LIHTC project and local assistance of
approximately $2.0 million.
4.Request new proposals.
City Council Member Gartin asked if the numbers had been run for the amount of subsidy there
would be per unit. The Mayor said the subsidy would come to around $100,000 per unit. Mr. Gartin
noted that the Council needed to think about if this would be a good investment for the City. Director
Diekmann said for the development and the land it was discussed as being around $40,000 per unit.
8
This would be a 30-year commitment for affordable housing.
Council Member Rollins inquired about what would happen to the funding that has already been set
aside if the Council wanted to delay the project. Ms. Baker-Latimer stated staff will continue to hold
the funding.
Council Member Betcher wanted to clarify the numbers of units. There are 32 affordable units in the
current version and Option 3 would change the number to 30 affordable units. Ms. Baker-Latimer
confirmed that was correct.
City Manager Steve Schainker stated a good question would be what would happen to the HOME
funds if the City had to wait a year. Ms. Baker-Latimer advised that if the City Council wanted to
use more than $650,000 and go back out for proposals, some construction will need to be started on
at least one house to use the available funding.
Council Member Gartin asked what the original proposals were for the number of units for
affordable housing. Director Diekmann stated there was one proposal for 50 townhome units and
this proposal was for 37 mixed-use units. Mr. Gartin stated that the Council has been talking about
the need for affordable housing and wanted to know why the Council would want to reduce the
number of affordable housing units. He said he would like to go back to the discussion of having 50
units instead of 37.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen inquired if the number of units would help on the LIHTC
application. Director Diekmann explained that it is about maximizing the amount of credits and not
maximizing the number of affordable units. He noted that 50 units was pushing the maximum
amount for the site; 40 units would be a more comfortable number.
Council Member Betcher commented that when she thought about the options available, she was
concerned about the option to start over as construction costs will not be going down and the City’s
subsidies will have to go up, which will make the project cost even more. She would be in favor of
Option 3, which would get the City fewer units, but it would leave the City with some funding to do
other things in the community.
Mayor Haila wanted to know the status of single-family homes and if it would be a slow, methodical
roll-out so some money would be available to help. Ms. Baker explained that the HOME funds have
been a blessing as you can use the HOME funds for construction. As far as finding home buyers, she
has already gone through 50 applications and she is struggling to find people who could potentially
qualify for a mortgage loan. She stated there are restrictions on the HOME funding, and they could
have a house built, but if it sat empty for too long, the house would convert to a rental property,
which staff is trying to avoid. The CDBG funds can’t be used to build, but the money can be used
for down payment and closing cost assistance. Ms. Baker-Latimer pointed out that she had spoken
with several modular home developers to get an idea on pricing, and the current rates were between
$250,000 and $300,000. She said staff would also look at working with non-profit developers to help
9
build.
The Mayor asked if the developer would be open to a lower front-end load and doing a partial tax
abatement for a period of time. Director Diekmann commented that they can evaluate that option
with the developer; however, he doesn’t know what the actual project is yet. He pointed out that the
HOME funds need to be spent. Ms. Baker-Latimer said that the City is in need of low-income units
for families, and especially those with Section 8 vouchers.
Council Member Gartin asked if the City Council chose Option 4: to have the City rebid the project
and ask for new Proposals, what would the City’s monetary contribution be. Director Diekmann
stated it would depend on if the City would be going with the 4% or 9% amounts, and it would also
depend on if the project was going to be this year or next year.
Council Member Corrieri said she was not interested in starting over as that had already been done
once. She was not convinced that a proposal would come in that was a lot more cost-effective.
Mayor Haila asked if there was a timeline. Ms. Baker-Latimer indicated that the 4% option had an
open-ended application window while the 9% option would have applications due by May 18, 2022.
Ms. Betcher asked how long it would take to get a decision after the applications were submitted.
Ms. Baker-Latimer noted that it would be around November 2022.
Council Member Rollins wanted to know, if the City decided to move forward when the current
builder would be able to start. Ms. Baker-Latimer indicated that they could be ready in May if the
City went with the 4% option. Director Diekmann stated if it was agreed to do the 4%, the City
would need to enter into a new Agreement with the developer, and concurrently, do a Site Plan
review, and create building plans, while going through the Iowa Finance authority to get the award.
It would be around September before the developer would get any notice from the State that it would
be awarded the 4%, and the earliest any groundbreaking would happen would be October 2022.
Ms. Baker-Latimer reminded the Council that, when using the HOME ARP funds, they still needed
a public input/comment period.
Mayor Haila asked, if the project gets designed and bid and the amount comes in above what is
estimated would the designer have the option to ask for money or not do the project at all. Mr.
Schainker replied hat it would depend on what the current Agreement said.
Mayor Haila recessed the meeting at 7:50 p.m. and reconvened it at 7:55 p.m.
Director Diekmann stated that, under the current Agreement, the developer had complete discretion
to execute the Agreement within nine months of the LIHTC award. If the developer chose not to
execute the Agreement, there would be no penalty. Prairie Fire would have had to show the City
proof of financing before the land could be sold to them.
10
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-123 to partner with the
current developer as a 4% LIHTC project and local assistance of approximately $2.0 million.
Council Member Gartin wanted to know at what point the City would consider the legality of going
with a Contract that is significantly different than the first arrangement. He wanted to make sure that
whatever the Council decided to do would be legal to make a change without having to do a new
RFP. Ms. Baker-Latimer said she had a conversation with the Purchasing Agent and the Assistant
City Attorney about that exact question. She was told that since the project has not changed, the City
would be okay to renegotiate the Agreement. Director Diekmann pointed out that the entity needed
to be the same as what the City first dealt with; the name can’t change. Mr. Gartin said he had hoped
that the City could get a better project for the community and was concerned that housing advocates
were not at the initial meetings and were not present now. He felt that the people who were really
losing on this project were not present. He wished the Council would have stayed with the original
proposal of 50 units.
Roll Call Vote: 5-1. Voting Aye: Beatty-Hansen, Betcher, Corrieri, Junck, Rollins. Voting Nay:
Gartin. Resolution declared adopted, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these
Minutes.
REQUESTS FOR PROJECTS IN CONJUNCTION WITH CDBG-CV ROUND 2 CARES
FUNDING THROUGH THE STATE OF IOWA DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY: Housing Coordinator Vanessa Baker-Latimer explained that
the City has received a significant amount of CARES funding. Staff’s priority was to administer the
City’s CDBG-CARES-CV to first ensure that 80% of the direct allocation of funds of $710,970
would be spent addressing one of the City’s most urgent needs. Those needs included providing rent,
mortgage, and utility assistance to low-income households about to face eviction, foreclosure, and/or
utility disconnections. In recent meetings with IDEA staff, they encouraged the City to expend the
funds quickly and to focus on small prevention through service capacity building and/or facility
expansion types of projects. Staff had reviewed services to determine a list of specific groups that
provide services in the areas of food distribution, meal delivery for the elderly, and facility-based
daycare. Staff recommended supporting these types of programs due to the feasibility and the need
in the community. A Workshop would be held for related organizations describing grant-eligible
activities and soliciting grant applications. The process would occur over the next few months with
funds being potentially available later in calendar year 2022.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to direct staff to proceed with hosting a grant application
workshop and requesting funding proposals from area organizations that provide services, such as
a food distribution, meal delivery for the elderly, and facility-based daycare services for potential
funding through the CDBG-CV Round 2 CARES Program administered by the IDEA.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
SETTING DATE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR MARCH 22, 2022, FOR THE SALE OF
AIRPORT PROPERTY AT 1101 AVIATION WAY TO MULMAC, LLC: Moved by Betcher,
11
seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-118 setting the date of Public Hearing
for the sale of airport property at 1101 Aviation Way to Mulmac LLC, for March 22, 2022.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON PROPOSAL TO ENTER INTO A LOAN AGREEMENT AND TO BORROW
MONEY THEREUNDER IN A PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $11,225,000:
Mayor Haila opened the public hearing. It was closed when no one asked to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-119 approving the proposal
to enter into an Essential Purpose Loan Agreement for the purpose of paying the costs of undertaking
essential public improvements and acquiring vehicles and equipment for the Municipal Fire
Department and providing for the levying of taxes to pay the same.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON PROPOSAL TO ENTER INTO A LOAN AGREEMENT AND TO BORROW
MONEY THEREUNDER IN A PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $700,000: The
public hearing was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-119 approving the proposal
to enter into a General Purpose Loan Agreement for the purpose of paying the costs of undertaking
the Downtown Plaza Improvements and providing for the levying of taxes to pay the same.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON PROPOSAL TO ENTER INTO A LOAN AGREEMENT AND TO BORROW
MONEY THEREUNDER IN A PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $350,000: The
Mayor opened the public hearing. There was no one wishing to speak, and the hearing was closed.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-119 approving the proposal
to enter into a General Purpose Loan Agreement for the purpose of paying the costs of concrete
surfacing improvements for a municipal fire station and providing for the levying of taxes to pay the
same.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON AMENDMENTS TO FISCAL YEAR 2021/22 BUDGET: Mayor Haila declared
the public hearing to be open.
Lauris Olson, 1705 Buchanan Drive, Ames, thanked the Council for its commitment to affordable
housing. She stated she would like to ask the Council to amend the award to Home Allies. Ms. Olson
commented that they were grateful for the $25,000. She asked if the Council would consider
12
awarding the $24,522 or rounding up to $25,000 for construction. They are currently at 30% for
funds raised to match for the bank loan, and they are at 50% for the subsidies. Ms. Olson said she
was waiting on the leases and a Memorandum of Understanding from The Bridge Home.
Council Member Gartin asked for clarification on what Ms. Olson was requesting. Ms. Olson stated
she was previously awarded $25,000 by City Council for rent subsidies and now she is asking for
another $25,000 for construction for a total of $50,000. City Manager Steve Schainker asked Finance
Director Duane Pitcher if the Council was able to add money to the budget at this time. Director
Pitcher explained that the Council could not add money, only reduce the amount; however, the
Council could reallocate funding. Ms. Olson stated it was her understanding that there was money
in “Council Priorities” that could be utilized. The Mayor recommended that Ms. Olson speak to staff
for further information.
The Mayor closed the public hearing when no one else came forward to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-120 approving amending
the budget for Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2022.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON ADOPTION OF FY 2022/23 BUDGET: The Mayor opened the public hearing
and closed it after there was no one who wished to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-121 approving the FY
2022/23 Budget.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
Council Member Corrieri left the meeting at 8:22 p.m.
HEARING ON MAJOR SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR 913 AND 915 DUFF AVENUE
AND 115-9TH STREET: City Planner Benjamin Campbell explained that Lauris Olson of Home
Allies, Inc., is the developer of the properties. The properties on Duff Avenue are located in the
Residential Medium Density Zoning District (RM) and within the Single-Family Conservation
Overlay Zoning District (O-SFC). Each of the lots on Duff Avenue is proposed to have one, four-unit
one-story apartment building. The O-SFC Zoning District allows for single- and two-family homes
by right and for multi-family buildings with City Council’s approval of a Major Site Development
Plan. The O-SFC requires that all new projects comply with design standards intended to conserve
the existing single-family residential character and to protect single-family neighborhoods while
guiding the transition to higher density and compatibility with the surrounding uses where
intensification is permitted. The standards include requirements for roof slope, facade design, and
height. All other development standards of the Zoning Ordinance, such as parking and landscaping
also apply to development of the site. The proposed project includes two, one-story buildings with
13
mirrored floor plans and architectural features. Each building contains four efficiency apartment
dwellings with a shared laundry facility that are accessed via a common corridor. The proposed
project includes a single, shared driveway to Duff Avenue with all parking at the rear of the site. The
Planning and Zoning Commission did recommend approval. Mr. Campbell explained that a neighbor
across the street had mentioned that there is a large evergreen tree near the northeast corner and
asked for it to be taken into consideration when the water line is installed so that the roots are not
damaged. Staff recommended approval of the Major Site Development Plan for 913 and 915 Duff
Avenue and 115 9th Street with the following conditions:
1.Record a shared-access easement for the shared driveway prior to issuance of a building
permit.
2.Include tree protection during project construction for the large evergreen tree to the north
of 915 Duff Avenue and shift the proposed water line south to minimize impact to the tree’s
critical root zone.
Council Member Gartin commented that he didn’t remember making accommodations for a tree
before and wanted to know if it changed the project at all. Mr. Campbell stated he had spoken with
the Public Works Department and it wouldn’t change the size of the water line.
Mayor Haila opened the public hearing.
Lauris Olson, 1705 Buchanan Drive, Ames, stated she has no problems saving the tree and the
architect was fine with it. She said that there were unintended consequences and increased costs
related to the Zoning and Overlay Districts. She was concerned about the shared-access easement
as she was not aware that this would need to be done before the issuance of a building permit. Ms.
Olson stated that Home Allies will not own the property until construction is done and it will be up
to the current owner if the shared-access easement is possible before. She had sent the information
to the current owners who sent the information to their attorney and she is still waiting to hear back
from them. Ms. Olson noted that she is getting American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds from Story
County, and unlike the City of Ames HOME funds, the ARPA funds will allow her to host people
with bad credit and prior evictions. In order to meet the federal acquisition requirements, it has to
be a sole-source, which means they can’t own the land in advance. The land and building must be
purchased together as a sole-source. If the current owners want to come up with a Purchase Contract
first, Home Allies would not be able to proceed as they do not have all the money raised yet, and
she can’t in good faith commit to a Contract until all the money and the grants are in. Ms. Olson
asked for staff to consider allowing the shared-access easement to be filed before an Occupancy
Permit is issued.
Mayor Haila closed the public hearing when no one else came forward to provide input.
Director Diekmann stated that staff could change the requirement of the shared-access easement to
be done before the Occupancy Permit is issued.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-122, to approve Alternative
14
1, which is to approve the Major Site Development Plan for 913 and 915 Duff Avenue and 115-9th
Street with the two conditions being recommended by staff and with the exception that the shared-
access easement Agreement be filed prior to issuing the Occupancy Permit.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
ORDINANCE REZONING 525 SE 16TH STREET FROM AGRICULTURAL “A” TO
H I G H W A Y O R I E N T E D C O M M E R C I A L “H O C ” A N D R E T A I N T H E
ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREA OVERLAY “O-E” FOR THE FLOODWAY:
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to pass on second reading an ordinance rezoning 525 SE 16th
Street from Agricultural “A” to Highway Oriented Commercial “HOC” and retain the
Environmentally Sensitive Area Overlay “O-E” for the floodway.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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: Moved
by Rollins, seconded by Junck, to pass on second reading an 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.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
ORDINANCE TO ALLOW TEMPORARY YARD WASTE PROCESSING FACILITIES
THROUGH APPROVAL OF A SPECIAL USE PERMIT BY THE ZONING BOARD OF
ADJUSTMENT: Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to pass on second reading an ordinance
to allow for temporary yard waste processing facilities through approval of a Special Use Permit by
the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
DISPOSITIONS OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: Mayor Haila said there were two
items on the list. The first item was a letter from Josh Abate, Director of Facilities for Green Hills
Retirement Community, requesting to wrap the transformer boxes located on the Green Hills
Campus.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Junck, to communicate to Josh Abate, Director of Facilities
for Green Hills Retirement Community that the Council is doing a pilot project and will entertain
his request once the pilot has been completed.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The second item was a letter from Delaney Good and Elijah Cosby requesting for the placement of
signs and community outreach to educate residents of the dangers of harmful algal bloom (HAB)
Toxins.
15
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Gartin, to thank them for their letter and state that the City
Council will take it under advisement.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Council Member Betcher mentioned that she had attended the Iowa
State Conference on Race and Ethnicity (ISCORE) and it was a great celebration of diversity on
Campus and in the community.
Council Member Gartin stated his heart has been heavy since the invasion of Ukraine. Cities across
the country are expressing their support for Ukraine, and Des Moines has shown their support with
lighting.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to direct staff to change the color of the lights on
Highway 30 and Bandshell Park to the national colors of Ukraine, and to place this matter on the
City Council Agenda for April 12, 2022, to consider the status.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
CLOSED SESSION: Council Member Junck asked City Attorney Mark Lambert if there was a
legal reason to go into Closed Session. Mr. Lambert replied in the affirmative, citing Section
21.51(1)c, Code of Iowa, to discuss matters presently in or threatened to be in litigation.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Gartin, to go into Closed Session.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The City Council entered into a Closed Session at 8:43 p.m. and reconvened in Regular Session at
8:55 p.m.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Gartin, to pursue the recommendation of staff.
Vote on Motion. 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Junck, seconded by Betcher, to adjourn the meeting at 8:56 p.m.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. 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
General Description Change Original Contract Total of Prior Amount this Change Contact
Transit Purchase of Four New 40-
Foot Standard Diesel
Busses
Company
Department Inc.
Improvements (13th Street:
Wilson to Duff
Period:
Item No. 3
Smart Choice
515.239.5133 non-emergency
Administration
fax
515 Clark Ave. P.O.
To: Mayor John Haila and Ames City Council Members
From: Lieutenant Heath Ropp, Ames Police Department
Date: March 9, 2022
Subject: Beer Permits & Liquor License Renewal Reference City Council Agenda
The Council agenda for March 22nd, 2022, includes beer permits and liquor license
renewals for:
•Off Campus Beer & Spirits (4518 Mortenson Rd Ste 109) - Class E Liquor License, Class
C beer permit, Class B Wine Permit
•Cinemark Movies 12 (1317 Buckeye Ave) - Class C Liquor License with Sunday Sales
•Cornbred BBQ (526 Main St Ste 106) - Class C Liquor License with outdoor service &
Sunday sales
•Radisson Ames (2609 University Blvd) - Class C Liquor License with outdoor service &
Sunday sales
•Brick City Grill (2640 Stange Rd) - Class C Liquor License with outdoor service & 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. 4
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: March 9, 2022
Subject: Beer Permits & Liquor License Renewal Reference City Council Agenda
The Council agenda for March 22nd, 2022, includes beer permits and liquor license
renewals for:
•Dangerous Curves (111 5th St) - Class C Liquor License with Sunday Sales
A review of police records for the past 12 months found 1 liquor law violation. During a
compliance check on March 25th, 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 location 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 business.
Item No. 4a
RESOLUTION NO. _______
RESOLUTION APPROVING AND ADOPTING
SUPPLEMENT NO. 2022-2 TO THE AMES MUNICIPAL CODE
BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council for the City of Ames, Iowa, that in accordance
with the provisions of Section 380.8 Code of Iowa, a compilation of ordinances and amendments
enacted subsequent to the adoption of the Ames Municipal Code shall be and the same is hereby
approved and adopted, under date of April 1, 2022, as Supplement No. 2022-2 to the Ames
Municipal Code.
Adopted this day of , 2022.
___________________________
John A. Haila, Mayor
Attest:
_______________________________
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk
Item No. 5
Caring People Quality Programs Exceptional Service
515.239.5105 main
5142 fax
Ave.
MEMO
TO: Members of the City Council
FROM: John A. Haila, Mayor
DATE: March 22, 2022
SUBJECT: Appointment to Fill Vacancy on Planning and Zoning
Commission
Jens Dancer, member of the Planning and Zoning Commission had submitted his
resignation from the commission. Since Jens term of office does not expire until
April 1, 2024, an appointment needs to be made to fill this vacancy.
Therefore, I request that the City Council approve the appointment of Mike
LaPietra to fill an unexpired term of office on the Planning and Zoning
Commission.
JAH/alc
Item No. 6
ITEM # ___7___
DATE: 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: SET PUBLIC HEARING FOR SALE OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY AT
241 VILLAGE DRIVE TO HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF CENTRAL IOWA
BACKGROUND:
As part of the City’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Neighborhood
Sustainability Program, the acquisition/reuse program component seeks to acquire
single-family properties and/or lots for reuse for affordable housing to assist low- and
moderate-income (80% or less of AMI) families. The program also makes health and
safety repairs to the properties, as needed. Where possible, the properties are matched
with eligible first-time homebuyers through the City’s CDBG Homebuyer Assistance
Program. Program parameters also permit the sale of properties to qualified non-profit
organizations in the community.
CDBG funds were used to purchase the property at 241 Village Drive as part of the
Acquisition/Reuse Program. The property was purchased in 2018 for $161,000. The only
major improvements to the property were the installation of a concrete driveway
(approximately $7,000) and installation of a radon system ($1,124). The property was
intended to be sold to a low-income first-time homeowner for $100,000, with the proceeds
being used towards the improvements in the Baker Subdivision at 321 State Avenue.
Habitat for Humanity of Central Iowa (HHCI) approached staff with an interest in
purchasing the 241 Village Drive property for $100,000. Following the purchase, Habitat
would be responsible for any further improvements it wishes to make to the property, and
will ultimately identify a qualifying family to move into the home.
A collaboration with Habitat for Humanity of Central Iowa would represent the fourteenth
endeavor between Habitat and the City of Ames. This project will allow the City to continue
to address one of its priority goals outlined in the both the 2021-2022 Annual Action Plan
and in the 2019-2023 CDBG Consolidated Plan, which is to increase the supply of
affordable housing for LMI households.
The City’s Finance staff has reviewed a draft of HHCI’s 2021 Annual Audit Report and
finds it in good order including the audit opinion. Therefore, staff has been working with
the HHCI Executive Board and City’s Legal Department staff to finalize terms and
conditions for this purchase and to set April 12, 2022, as the date of public hearing.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Set April 12, 2022 as the date of public hearing to sell the property at 241 Village
Drive to Habitat for Humanity of Central Iowa in the amount of $100,000, and
authorize staff to finalize terms and conditions for the sale.
2. Set April 12, 2022 as the date of public hearing to sell the property at 241 Village
Drive to Habitat for Humanity of Central Iowa in the amount of $100,000, and
authorize staff to finalize terms and conditions for the sale with additional terms
and conditions or modifications.
3. Direct staff to seek other buyers for this property.
4. Decline to sell the property at this time.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The sale of the 241 Village Drive home to Habitat for Humanity of Central Iowa will assist
the City in its efforts to continue to address the housing needs for low- and moderate-
income first-time home buyers. The proposed purchase price is consistent with staff’s
initial estimates. Selling the property at this time to Habitat will accelerate the occupancy
of the home with a qualified household as City staff focuses efforts on completing Baker
Subdivision.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council approve
Alternative #1.
1
ITEM: ___8___
DATE: 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: APPROVAL OF 2021 ANNUAL CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT
REPORT
BACKGROUND
Under the Certified Local Government (CLG) Agreement with the State Historic
Preservation Office (SHPO), local governments and their Historic Preservation
Commissions are responsible for submitting an annual report documenting the
Commission’s preservation work during the previous calendar year. The report
documents that the Commission has met the requirements of the CLG program and is in
good standing. The report also includes a Work Plan for the upcoming year.
The Ames Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) met on March 8, 2022, at which time
it documented its accomplishments for 2021 and developed its Work Plan for 2022, based
upon Commission priorities.
SHPO requires that a representative of the HPC provide details of the 2021
accomplishments of the HPC, and the Work Plan for 2022 to the City Council,
followed by the Mayor acknowledging completion of this requirement. Staff
prepared the report for HPC review at its March 8 meeting. Attached is the portion of the
CLG Report that addresses the successes and challenges of the previous calendar year
(2021), and the 2022 Work Plan as approved by the HPC.
Notable new initiatives for the 2022 Work Plan include completing the CLG Grant
Chautauqua Park-Ridgewood intensive resource survey, advising City Council regarding
revisions to Downtown Façade Grant program for preservation of character defining
features, and reviewing the Chapter 31 Historic Preservation Ordinance for clarity and
user friendliness.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the 2021 accomplishments of the Historic Preservation Commission
(HPC), and the Work Plan for 2022, as described in the 2021 Certified Local
Government Report and direct the Mayor to acknowledge completion of the report.
2. Refer the 2021 CLG Report back to the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC)
and/or staff for revisions.
CITY MANAGERS RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The HPC has documented its accomplishments for 2021 and has developed a 2022 Work
Plan that represents its priorities for the current calendar year.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council approve
Alternative #1.
(Portion of the 2021 CLG Report)
Attachment A
8.1 Describe the city, county, LUD, and/or historic preservation commission’s historic
preservation planning activities in this calendar year.
• Work Plan- In February 2021, the Ames Historic Preservation Commission approved the 2021
Work Plan for the year.
• Awards Program- In January and February, nominations were received for the 2021 Annual
Historic Preservation Awards Program. Two projects were selected for awards. One was the
Adaptive Reuse of the building at 319-321 Main Street in Downtown Ames by OEI Ames, LLC.
The other award recipient was Angie and Dan Kolz in the category of Historic Rehabilitation for
their residence at 802 Burnett Avenue in the Old Town Historic District. In April, a public
presentation was made by the Mayor and City Council to both the 2020 and 2021 Historic
Preservation Award recipients, since the 2020 awardees public recognition of their achievement
had been postponed due to Covid-19.
• Preservation Plan- In March 2021, the City Council reviewed proposed amendments to the Ames
Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan which were recommended by the Historic
Preservation Commission from their detail review during 2020. Additional revisions were
directed by the City Council and the revised Ames Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan was
adopted on April 13, 2021. Changes included updates, clarifications, deletions, and additions to
the goals, objectives, and action steps of the Plan.
• National Historic Preservation Month Proclamation- On April 27, 2021, the City Council made a
proclamation in observance of May National Historic Preservation Month.
• The Ames City Council approved a fiscal year 2021/22 budget of $2000 for historic preservation
activities. The funding is to be used for training and conferences for members of the Ames
Historic Preservation Commission, as well as for the Historic Preservation Annual Awards
Program, tours, brochures, and other educational programs.
• Additionally, the Ames City Council funded $46,827 to the Ames History Museum for the
following contracted services for the 2021 calendar year:
o Presented 45 presentations and open houses, to be hosted at the Ames History
Center and in locations throughout the community;
o Took the history trailer to 5 community events or elementary school visits;
o Responded to no fewer than 300 research requests;
o Hosted at least 750 public open hours at the Ames History Center;
o Cataloged at least 450 historical Ames collections objects;
o Posted 250 historical photos or stories online;
o Made 75 new resources available online;
o Presented 12 new exhibits at the museum, at other locations, or virtually;
o Conducted research and installed a “Mayors of Ames” plaque; and
o Collaborated with no fewer than 5 partnering community organizations to conduct
special projects, host events, and/or present programs.
8.2 Describe the city, county, LUD, and/or historic preservation commission’s assistance on
preservation issues or projects in this calendar year. Please be specific (address(es) of
property(ies), what was the issue(s), what technical assistance was provided?
• Members of the Ames Historic Preservation Commission and City staff met with the individual
owners of property in the Old Town Historic District to review applications for the following:
o the construction of a reconstruction and repair of the front porch;
o construction of an entrance on the rear side of the house;
o demolition of a contributing detached garage;
o construction of a new detached garage;
o removal and replacement of existing asphalt shingles and aluminum K-style gutters;
o removal and replacement of wood exterior doors;
o alterations to an existing chimney;
o removal and replacement of existing wood windows, addition of windows, and
installation of aluminum storm windows;
o removal and replacement of select areas of siding;
o removal of a non-contributing second story deck; and
o construction of new wood fencing and gate.
A Certificate of Appropriateness was issued by the Commission or staff for each project. A total of
nine Certificates of Appropriateness were issued in 2021 for five properties.
8.3 Describe the city, county, LUD, and/or historic preservation commission’s public
education programs in this calendar year.
Please provide specific details such as date of event, description of the event, how many people
participated, whether the commission partnered with other organizations)
• An education walk through program was held on November 18, 2021, at the historic Odd
Fellows Temple located on Main Street in Ames historic downtown. Steve Wilke-Shappiro
provided insights on obtaining historic tax credits. Downtown property and business owners
were invited. Approximately 25-27 people attended. Most in attendance were business owners
and property owners, although there were also some ISU students that also attended.
• The following Commission members and City staff participated in the Virtual 2021 Preserve Iowa
Summit originating from Council Bluffs, Iowa, held on June 3-5, 2021:
o Susan Minks, Ames Historic Preservation Commission;
o Mary Jo Winder, Ames Historic Commission; and
o Eloise Sahlstrom, City Staff Liaison to the Ames Historic Preservation Commission.
9. Are there any particular issues, challenges, and/or successes your preservation
commission has encountered or accomplished this year?
Successes-
• Since the establishment of the Ames Main Street Historic District in 2019, it has been a goal of
the HPC to help get the word out to property owners within the City’s historic districts about
federal and state tax incentives that support the rehabilitation and reuse of historic architecture
and help revitalize communities. Finally, in 2021, a successful educational event was realized,
with over two dozen people in attendance.
• Another notable success for 2021, was the successful CLG grant submission and receipt of
$14,000 (in 2022) for an intensive level survey of the Chautauqua Park and Ridgewood
subdivisions. The last time the City had applied and received funding through the CLG grant
program was in 2009. The effort will include the use of ISU students and the Ames History
Museum.
• Preservation Plan- After an extensive review by the HPC of the Ames Comprehensive Historic
Preservation Plan during 2020, the City Council adopted the revisions on April 13, 2021. Changes
included updates, clarifications, deletions, and additions to the goals, objectives, and action
steps of the Plan.
• Additionally,
o The City of Ames continues to provide funding to the Ames Historical Museum for a
variety of services including education and research.
o The City of Ames had excellent participation by Historic Preservation Commission
members and City staff in the Virtual 2021 Preservation Iowa Summit.
o Granting Certificates of Appropriateness. Review of applications resulted in the
timely issuance of nine Certificates of Appropriateness for five properties.
o The Historic Preservation webpage on the City of Ames website continues to be
frequented by the public and the Commission as a tool for public awareness about
historic preservation in Ames.
Challenges-
• The HPC accomplished a lot in 2021. No major challenges were encountered.
18. Each CLG was asked to provide a work plan last year. Please provide a self-assessment of your
progress on the initiatives and programs you identified last year. Were you able to accomplish
much of what you set out to do? If not, what would help you fulfill this in next year’s work plan?
2021 WORK PLAN –
Educate the Public Concerning the Value and Benefit of Historic Preservation.
• Facilitate the dissemination of historic preservation information.
o Collaborate with the Ames History Museum and Iowa State University on resources
and possible joint projects.
o Explore new ways to involve Iowa State University students in historic preservation
for the community.
• Continue with funding for training of Commission members and developing educational
resources about Ames history and historic resources.
o Participate in educational opportunities afforded by the 2021 Preserve Iowa Summit
offered virtually, originating from Council Bluffs on June 3-5. All Ames Historic
Preservation Commission members will be strongly encouraged to log into the
virtual sessions.
• Continue Historic Preservation Commission Annual Historic Preservation Awards Program, and
present awards with the Mayor at a City Council meeting in April or May.
• Continue to recognize May as Preservation Month with a Proclamation by City Council.
• Seek speakers for presentations of timely preservation topics in Ames.
• Seek membership in the National Alliance of Preservation Commissions.
*Assessment of Progress in 2021:
• Dissemination of Information- The Ames City Council funded $46,827 to the Ames History
Museum for the dissemination of historic preservation information as described in question 8.1.
• The HPC submitted in 2021 for CLG grant funding for an Intensive Level survey of the
Chautauqua Park and Ridgewood subdivisions. The effort in 2022 will include collaboration with
the Ames History Museum and the use of ISU students. The students will complete a historic
context, research primary source documents, photograph all resources, and complete State of
Iowa inventory forms for all properties in the project area. All grant-funded activities will be
under the supervision of three Historic Preservation Commission members.
• Training- Funding for HPC training was included in the City budget by the Ames City Council. Two
Commission members and one staff liaison was able to participate in the virtual 2021 Preserve
Iowa Summit originating from Council Bluffs on June 3-5.
• Awards- The annual Historic Preservation Awards Program resulted in two awardees- one in
adaptive reuse and one in historic rehabilitation. Winners from both 2020 and 2021 were
recognized by the Mayor and City Council at the City Council meeting held on April 27, 2021.
• Proclamation- The Mayor and City Council made a proclamation to recognize May as
Preservation Month.
• Speakers- The Commission sponsored an education session with Steve Wilke-Shapiro of Sequel
Architecture who led a walk-through of the Odd Fellows Temple in downtown Ames. He
discussed tax incentives applicable to commercial properties in the downtown area and which
support rehabilitation and reuse of historic architecture. The event was attended by 25-27
people including property owners, business owners and ISU students.
• NAPC- Membership in the National Alliance of Preservation Commissions was discussed, but no
action was taken.
Promote the Economic Development and Vitality of the City through Historic Preservation.
• Partner with Ames Main Street to offer a presentation on the use of tax credits available for
properties in both the Old Town Historic District and the Ames Main Street Historic District.
• Continue granting Certificates of Appropriateness in a timely manner. Make resources readily
available to enable the public to be more aware and compliance more easily understood with
design guidelines and design standards.
• Design and install two permanent signs on either end of Main Street showing “before” and
“now” views of our historic Main Street, as funding becomes available.
*Assessment of Progress in 2021:
• Speakers- The Commission partnered with Ames Main Street and sponsored Steve Wilke-Barre
to lead a walk-through of the historic Odd Fellows Temple, located in downtown Ames. He
discussed the federal and state tax incentives that support the rehabilitation and reuse of
historic architecture. Ames Main Street was instrumental in helping publicize the event to
downtown property owners and businesses. Approximately 25-27 people attended.
• COAs- The timely granting of Certificates of Appropriateness (COA) continued in 2021 as in past
years. City staff has the authority in Chapter 31 to issue a COA for alterations to existing
structures provided the alterations are consistent with the Design Guidelines and Design
Criteria. Approval from the Historic Preservation Commission is required for all new construction
or any building addition that increases the amount of gross floor area.
• No action was taken to design/ install permanent signs on each end of Main Street.
Complete Review of Chapter 31 of the Ames Municipal Code adopted in 2015.
• Review current procedures for obtaining a Certificate of Appropriateness.
• Convey text amendments to the City Council for consideration.
*Assessment of Progress in 2021:
• Reviewing of COA procedures and Chapter 31 was postponed until 2022.
Continue to Use the Ames Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan as a Guide to the Annual Work
Plan.
• Implement “Action Steps” with the support of the City Council.
• Conduct surveys of historic resources with the support of City Council, and grant funding.
*Assessment of Progress in 2021:
• Preservation Plan- Based upon their work in 2020, the HPC presented an update to the Goals,
Objectives, and Action Steps of the Ames Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan (HPP) to the
City Council in March. In April, the City Council approved the update.
• The HPC identified Chautauqua Park and Ridgewood Subdivisions as areas appropriate for an
intensive survey and applied for CLG Grant funding. Grant funding was approved in 2022. The
survey will be conducted in 2022 and 2023.
(Portion of the 2021 CLG Report)
2022 Work Plan
19. Each commission should develop a work plan for the coming year. This work plan should include
the project(s), initiatives, and programs you plan to begin or complete. Also discuss your plan for
obtaining historic preservation training in 2022. Please attach your work plan to your annual report.
2022 WORK PLAN – [Note: “ACHPP” = Ames Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan]
Educate the Public Concerning the Value and Benefit of Historic Preservation [GOAL #4, ACHPP]
• Facilitate the dissemination of historic preservation information. [Objective 4.C, ACHPP]
o Collaborate with the Ames History Museum and Iowa State University on resources and
possible joint projects.
o Involve Iowa State University students in historic preservation for the community.
• Continue with funding for training of Commission members and developing educational
resources about Ames history and historic resources. [Objective 4.A, ACHPP]
o Participate in educational opportunities afforded by the by the 2022 Preserve Iowa
Summit
• Continue Historic Preservation Commission Annual Historic Preservation Awards Program,
and present awards with the Mayor at a City Council meeting in April or May.
• Continue to recognize May as Preservation Month with a Proclamation by City Council.
• Seek speakers for presentations of timely preservation topics in Ames. [Objective 4.A,
ACHPP]
• Seek membership in the National Alliance of Preservation Commissions.
Promote the Economic Development and Vitality of the City through Historic Preservation [GOAL
#6, ACHPP]
• Partner with Ames Main Street to offer a presentation on the use of tax credits available for
properties in both the Old Town Historic District and the Ames Main Street Historic District.
[Objective 4.A, ACHPP]
• Continue granting Certificates of Appropriateness in a timely manner. Make resources
readily available (such as, handouts with illustrations [Objective 3.B.1, ACHPP]) to enable the
public to be more aware and compliance more easily understood with design guidelines and
design standards.
Enhance municipal policies to protect historic resources and implement policies through
identification, effective legislation, and efficient regulatory measures. [GOAL #3, ACHPP]
• Conduct surveys of historic resources with the support of City Council, and grant funding.
[Objective 3.A & 3.A.1 & 3.C.1]
o Continue to improve Ames inventories of historic properties through an Intensive
Survey of Chautauqua Park/Ridgewood neighborhood. [Objective 3.A & GOAL #2,
ACHPP]
o Successfully complete intensive survey of Chautauqua Park/Ridgewood
neighborhood by August 31, 2023.
• Work with Staff to revise the Downtown Façade Grant program to include the preservation
of historic character-defining elements, as features available for funding. [GOAL #3 &
Objective 3.D, GOAL #2, & Objective 6.C, ACHPP]
• Address internal inconsistencies, when identified, with updated Chapter 31 design
guidelines to reflect the compatible use of new materials, technologies, and sustainability
measures. [Objective 3.B.1, ACHPP]
o Review Chapter 31 for clarity and conciseness. Explore revisions to make it more
user-friendly.
Continue to Use the Ames Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan to Guide Annual Work Plan.
[Objective 5.C, ACHPP]
• Review the Ames Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan and determine next year’s
priorities and work plan, in November or December. [Objective 5.C.1, ACHPP]
• Obtain approval from the City Council for priorities determined by the Commission following
each review of the Ames Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan. [Objective 5.C.2,
ACHPP]
Mayor’s Signature Page
1
ITEM # 9
DATE 03/22/22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: GRANT AGREEMENT FOR CHAUTAUQUA PARK & RIDGEWOOD
NEIGHBORHOOD INTENSIVE SURVEY
BACKGROUND:
On August 24, 2021, the City Council authorized the submittal of a Certified Local
Government (CLG) Grant Application to the State Historical Society of Iowa (SHSI) to
fund an Intensive Survey of the Chautauqua Park & Ridgewood neighborhood
(Attachment A).
An intensive survey, as the name implies, is designed to identify and describe the historic
resources precisely and completely in order to support a potential nomination of the area
as an historic district. It involves a thorough inspection of all historic resources identified
within the survey boundaries, and detailed background research into the history of the
properties, events, and people associated with them, and an evaluation of their
significance. A completed intensive survey will provide a solid basis for work on a
National Register nomination for the particular resource, but the survey itself does not
result in a listing of an area on a historic register or make it a local landmark.
On January 6, 2022, the City received notice of the CLG grant award notice from the
SHSI that the grant application was approved for funding in the amount requested,
$14,000. An in-kind match of 40% of the project budget is also required. On March 4,
2022, the City received the grant contract.
The total budget for the survey project is $23,400, summarized as follows:
CLG Grant Funds - $14,000:
These funds will cover all ISU student wages and expenses for travel, etc., to complete
the required field work. ISU Students (2-3) will complete an historic context of the
Chautauqua Park/Ridgewood district, complete all field work, including required
photography, research all available primary source documents and complete
approximately 107 inventory forms.
City of Ames Cash Match - $0:
No cash match is being provided by the City
In-Kind Match - $9,400 estimated monetary value:
The in-kind match will consist of volunteer time (HPC sub-committee, city staff) devoted
to the project. A Planner in the Department of Planning and Housing and will function as
the Project Liaison with the State.
2
Total Grant Funds Awarded: 14,000
City of Ames Financial Contribution: 0
Time Devoted by Volunteers: 9,400
Total Project Cost: $23,400
SHSI will reimburse the City for actual, necessary, and eligible costs incurred by the City
as part of the project. All claims for reimbursement will include documentation of the
expenses incurred under the contract.
Eloise Sahlstrom, a Planner in the Department of Planning and Housing, will be Primary
Contact and serve as Project Liaison between the City and the State. Eloise will work
directly with the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) Project Manager, Mary Jo
Winder. Mary Jo will be overseeing the work of the ISU student investigators and HPC
volunteers. Mary Jo Winder is a retired architectural history consultant who meets the
professional qualification requirements.
All grant-funded activities will be completed under the strict supervision of HPC members
who meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines – Professional
Qualification Standards for historic preservation practice under 36 CFR Part 61 (History
of/or Architectural History areas.)
The investigators for the intensive survey will be two to three ISU Students. Students will
be hired following the City policies for hiring temporary staff. The student investigators will
perform duties delegated by the Project Liaison and HPC Project Manager, including, but
not limited to, conducting research, photographing properties, working with digital
photographic files and prints, writing up architectural descriptions and historical
information on surveyed properties, completing data entry for site inventory forms, and
compiling electronic information into a historic resources database form for future use and
distribution.
The Work Products to be completed through this project are:
• Historic Context for Chautauqua Park/Ridgewood Historic District.
• Intensive inventory forms for up to 107 properties.
• Informational meetings for property owners/residents in the project area.
• Quarterly Progress Reports: First due April 1, 2022; then every three months
thereafter, until the end of the contract.
• Prepare the Research Design discussing project activities, methodology and
schedule
• Historic Context for Chautauqua Park/Ridgewood Historic District
• Intensive Survey Report
• Complete Set of Iowa State Inventory Forms for approximately 107 properties
• Digital Photographs in TIFF Format (files names to correspond to site inventory
number)
3
• Streetscape Photographs labeled with block number and street name (e.g. 200
block south side of 1st Street).
• A Photo Key for the Survey Area
• Historic Images, Site Plans, and Other Figures as necessary for each property
• Informational Meetings for property owners/residents in the project area
• Request for Reimbursement with documentation of expenditures and match
• Five Photographs of the project in progress
All products created under this grant will include acknowledgement that the activity has
been financed in part with Federal funds from the National Park Service, U.S. Dept.
Interior.
Tentative Project Schedule:
March 2022: Sign contract with SHPO
March 31, 2022: City submits 1st Progress Report to State
April 2022: Interview and hire student investigators
May 2022: Train student investigators and volunteers
May 2022: Project kick-off meeting with SHPO and participants
May-June 2022: Photography, Field Work, & Primary Source Documentation
June 30, 2022: City submits 2nd Progress Report to State
July 2022: Complete Historic Context
July 2022: Complete Building Descriptions
August-September: Complete Inventory Forms
September 30, 2022: Submit a Draft Intensive Survey Report to SHPO
City submits 3rd Progress Report to State &
Request for Reimbursement [70%] = $9,800
Match Documentation Form [hours calculated into $$]
October 2022: Complete Final Photography, if needed
October 2022: Informational Meeting for Affected Owners/Residents
November 2022: Submit Final Intensive Survey Documents:
Historic Context for Chautauqua Park/Ridgewood Hist. Dst.
Intensive-Level Inventory Forms for up to 107 Properties
Final Progress Report [Approval of all Products]
Final Claim for Reimbursement = $ 4,200
Final Match Documentation Form [hours calculated into $$]
Last Day for Final Report, if not completed earlier - July 28, 2023
Contract Termination, if not completed earlier - August 31, 2023
4
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the State Historical Society of Iowa Grant-in-Aid Agreement for the
Chautauqua Park-Ridgewood Intensive Survey, Certified Local Government Grant
Project.
2. Do not approve the agreement.
3. Refer this item back to City staff for additional information and/or changes.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
This grant application is consistent with the intent of the adopted Ames Comprehensive
Historic Preservation Plan and with the HPC 2022 Work Plan. No direct funds are
requested from the City. The 40% in-kind match would be provided by volunteer hours
primarily from Ames Historic Preservation Commissioners and City staff. The initial grant
contract provided by the state identified Wendy Jo Winder as the project contact, this has
been corrected with the SHSI to have Eloise Sahlstrom as the representative of the City
for grant administration.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council approve
Alternative #1.
5
Attachment A – Survey Area
1
ITEM # ___10__
DATE 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: 2022/23 AMES ANNUAL OUTDOOR SCULPTURE EXHIBITION
BACKGROUND:
The Ames Annual Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition (AAOSE), the longest running program
for the Public Arts Commission (PAC), will celebrate its 26th annual downtown exhibition
in 2022. Through this program, artists submit sculptural entries to be displayed in
Downtown Ames from May 2022 through April 2023. At the conclusion of the display,
sculptures are available for purchase by private individuals or by PAC through the
Neighborhood Sculpture Program. This year, 36 AAOSE entries were received from 17
artists.
The entries were evaluated by a jury of Ames residents who then made their
recommendations to PAC. The jurors selected eight sculptures to be displayed. They
also identified three alternates in case selected sculpture(s) would become unavailable.
PAC approved the recommendations and alternates at a special meeting on March 15,
2022.
Attached are photographs and descriptions of the sculptures recommended for the 2022-
23 AAOSE. Installation of the exhibit will take place in April after consultation with
businesses near the proposed sites and further risk analysis by City staff.
Artists will be paid a $2,000 honorarium for each selected sculpture, and a Best-in-Show
award of $1,000 will be made to a winner determined by the public, for a total expenditure
of $17,000. The honorarium and Best-in-Show award amounts have been doubled by
PAC compared to the amounts in the previous year; however, the net cost increase is
only $2,500, since during the 25th anniversary of AAOSE in 2021/22 there were 14
sculptures exhibited for a total cost of $14,500. Therefore, the net increased cost for the
program is $2,500. All expenses will be paid for through the PAC budget. Funding for the
AAOSE exhibition was included in the 2021-22 City Budget for the Public Art Commission.
ALTERNATIVES:
1.Authorize PAC to enter into agreements with artists for the exhibition of sculptures
and make honorarium payments.
2.Do not approve the agreements.
2
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
This annual program allows for works of art to be displayed throughout the City. This
program aligns with the City Council’s value of a fun, vibrant community that attracts and
retains people.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1 as described above.
AMES ANNUAL
OUTDOOR SCULPTURE
EXHIBITION SELECTIONS
2022-2023
Albert Rhea
Papillion, NE
Parent and Child
◦Dimensions: Unspecified (base measures 18”x16”)
◦Media: Stainless Steel
◦Weight: 185 lbs
◦Year: 2019
◦Value: $9,500
Craig Snyder
Plymouth, MN
Cube Farmer
◦Dimensions: 8’x5’x3’
◦Media: Steel
◦Weight: 350 lbs
◦Year: 2018
◦Value: $8,200
Tim Adams
Webster City, IA
Symmetry
◦Dimensions: 10’x4’x5’
◦Media: Upcycled Steel
◦Weight: 250 lbs
◦Year: 2022
◦Value: $5,000
Hilde DeBruyne
Cumming, IA
Blue Wings
◦Dimensions: 6’x4’x3’
◦Media: Mild Steel
◦Weight: 150 lbs
◦Year: 2019
◦Value: $9,000
Zach Bowman
Ankeny, IA
Heartbeat of the Heartland
◦Dimensions: 10’x6’x7’
◦Media: Stainless and Mild Steel
◦Weight: 200 lbs
◦Year: 2017
◦Value: $6,500
Sung-Hee Min
Roseville, MN
Arc C
◦Dimensions: 80”x19”x30”
◦Media: Stainless Steel and Steel
◦Weight: 120 lbs
◦Year: 2019
◦Value: $10,000
John Kamrath
Mahtomedi, MN
Twist
◦Dimensions: 9’x3’x2’
◦Media: Steel
◦Weight: 200 lbs
◦Year: 2021
◦Value: $9,000
Ben Pierce
Cape Girardeau, MO
Propensity
◦Dimensions: 9’x3’x3’
◦Media: Steel and Paint
◦Weight: 800 lbs
◦Year: 2015
◦Value: $7,500
ALTERNATES
In Numbered Order
Gail Chavenelle
Dubuque, IA
Flushing Mallards
◦Dimensions: 7’x29”x18”
◦Media: Steel Plate w/ Baked on Powder Coat
◦Weight: 200 lbs
◦Year: 2021
◦Value: $8,500
Damian Radice
Grand Junction, CO
Discussion Group
◦Dimensions: 34”x24”x14”
◦Media: Bronze
◦Weight: 120 lbs
◦Year: 2022
◦Value: $3,800
Steven W. Maeck
Burr Oak, IA
Crazy Eight
◦Dimensions: 7’4”x2’11”x2’11”
◦Media: Welded Steel
◦Weight: 750 lbs
◦Year: 2017
◦Value: $19,500
1
ITEM # ____11___
DATE 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: REQUEST FROM DELLA VITI (323 MAIN STREET) TO ALLOW
ALCOHOL SERVICE AT A SIDEWALK CAFÉ
BACKGROUND:
In 2017, the City Council adopted new regulations regarding Sidewalk Cafés. These
regulations allow for alcohol service in certain circumstances. Establishments that,
under Section 17.16 of Municipal Code, may allow minors on the premises are
permitted to serve alcohol at their sidewalk cafés without prior special approval. These
applications are approved by staff as long as the applicant obtains the appropriate
Outdoor Service Privilege for its license. Establishments that are not allowed to have
minors on the premises under Section 17.16 of Municipal Code must request
approval from the City Council to serve alcohol at their sidewalk cafés.
Della Viti (323 Main Street) has submitted a request to implement a sidewalk café and
serve alcohol at it. This establishment has received Council approval to operate a
sidewalk café with alcohol sales annually since the 2017 sidewalk café season. Della
Viti has a Class C Liquor License and, because a majority of its sales come from selling
alcoholic beverages, may not have minors on the premises according to Section 17.16
of Municipal Code. Therefore, approval from the City Council is required to allow alcohol
service at its proposed sidewalk café.
The sidewalk café regulations call for the City Council to consider requests from
establishments in Della Viti’s situation on a case-by-case basis. The Code specifies that
the City Council shall consider the following factors when presented with a request:
1. Site Conditions – Della Viti’s proposed site is open and unobstructed by existing
street furniture, utility accesses, or other equipment. The proposed sidewalk café
will utilize four tables and will take up five and a half feet of the 13-foot sidewalk.
There is a large window in the front of the establishment that will allow staff to
monitor the entire sidewalk café from inside the building. Della Viti has indicated
a staff person will be dedicated to monitoring the sidewalk café.
2. Compliance History/Staff Training – A review of Police records indicates no
liquor or nuisance violations in the past at Della Viti. According to the applicant,
three of the four staff members have participated in I-PACT (Iowa Program for
Alcohol Compliance Training), the fourth staff member is scheduled to go through
I-PACT soon. The applicant has stated that in-house training continues to be
conducted with staff when they are hired, which includes ID checking.
Additionally, it is a policy to take IDs from every patron who enters the premises
in exchange for a card which operates the wine-dispensing system.
2
3. Other Factors the Council Deems Relevant – During the review of previous
requests from Della Viti, the City Council did not identify other factors to consider
when weighing whether to grant approval for requests of this type. Should the
City Council have specific concerns, staff could request additional information
from the applicant before the Council moves forward with approving or denying
the request.
In addition to the above three specific issues the Council must take into consideration
with this request, the Municipal Code requires that any sidewalk café at which alcohol is
served must operate with additional restrictions compared to those where alcohol is not
served. The additional, required restrictions that would apply to Della Viti are:
• Patron ingress and egress shall be controlled and continually monitored by staff
• No alcoholic beverages may be sold or served later than 10 p.m.
• Patrons may not consume outside beverages on the premises
Finally, the Municipal Code empowers the City Council to impose special conditions on
any sidewalk café granted an exception to dispense alcohol if it feels such restrictions
are appropriate. No conditions were imposed by the Council in granting previous
approvals for Della Viti.
Upon staff review of the application materials, the application appears complete
and in order. Della Viti’s current Outdoor Service Privilege is valid through June
17, 2022. Because holding the appropriate liquor control license is a pre-requisite
to allow alcohol service at a sidewalk café, Council approval of Della Viti’s
request to serve alcohol must be made subject to maintaining an Outdoor Service
Privilege if it would like to continue providing alcohol service at its sidewalk café
during the second half of the 2022 Sidewalk Café season.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the request from Della Viti to allow alcohol service at its sidewalk café
during the 2022 sidewalk café season, subject to Della Viti maintaining its
Outdoor Service Privilege.
2. Refer the request to staff for additional information.
3. Deny the request.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
3
It is important to ensure that alcohol service in public places occurs in an appropriate
environment. Municipal Code requires a higher level of scrutiny for establishments
where alcohol service is taking place and there is little to no food service, as compared
to establishments where alcohol is ancillary to the food service.
In this instance, the establishment has an exceptional compliance record, and has
adopted procedures that maintain a safe, controlled environment where alcohol is
served. The establishment has participated in additional training for its staff to maintain
compliance. The application for the sidewalk café indicates a proposed outdoor service
area that can be easily monitored and that does not attempt to overcrowd the area. The
applicant has responded cooperatively to requests for additional information and
appears to have a good understanding of the requirements in place for compliant
service.
It should be noted that the alternatives presented indicate approval is for only the
2022 sidewalk café season (April through October, according to Municipal Code).
Sidewalk café applications must be completed anew each season; they do not carry
over from year-to-year. This follows the practice established with approval of previous
requests for alcohol service at sidewalk cafes. Requiring new requests each year
ensures an opportunity to review performance and impose special conditions or
withhold approval if the establishment fails to meet the Council’s expectations.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
ITEM # ____12___
DATE 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: REQUEST FROM NOIR (405 KELLOGG AVENUE) TO ALLOW
ALCOHOL SERVICE AT A SIDEWALK CAFÉ
BACKGROUND:
In 2017, the City Council adopted new regulations regarding Sidewalk Cafés. These
regulations allow for alcohol service in certain circumstances. Establishments that,
under Section 17.16 of Municipal Code, may allow minors on the premises are
permitted to serve alcohol at their sidewalk cafés without prior special approval. These
applications are approved by staff as long as the applicant obtains the appropriate
Outdoor Service Privilege for its license. Establishments that are not allowed to have
minors on the premises under Section 17.16 of Municipal Code must request
approval from the City Council to serve alcohol at their sidewalk cafés.
Noir (405 Kellogg Avenue) has submitted a request to implement a sidewalk café and
serve alcohol at it. This is the first time the City has received a request from this
establishment for a sidewalk café. Noir has a Class C Liquor License and, because a
majority of its sales come from selling alcoholic beverages, may not have minors on the
premises according to Section 17.16 of Municipal Code. Therefore, approval from the
City Council is required to allow alcohol service at its proposed sidewalk café.
The sidewalk café regulations call for the City Council to consider requests from
establishments in Noir’s situation on a case-by-case basis. The Code specifies that the
City Council shall consider the following factors when presented with a request:
1. Site Conditions – Noir’s proposed site contains sufficient room without
obstructions to facilitate the proposed set of three tables and six chairs. The
proposed sidewalk café will be permitted to take up no more than 5.5 feet of the
11-foot sidewalk.
2. Compliance History/Staff Training – A review of Police records indicates no
liquor or nuisance violations since the opening of Noir. The establishment passed
the most recent alcohol compliance check. According to the applicant, most of
the service staff has participated in I-PACT (Iowa Program for Alcohol
Compliance Training), and others have taken ServeSafe training. All employees
are re-certified every two years. The establishment has a policy to check IDs for
any customer who appears under 40 years of age. Police records indicate none
of the establishment’s staff has participated in the Police Department ID card
training.
2
3. Other Factors the Council Deems Relevant – During the review of similar
requests, the City Council has not identified other factors to consider when
weighing whether to grant approval for requests of this type. Should the City
Council have specific concerns, staff could request additional information from
the applicant before the Council moves forward with approving or denying the
request.
In addition to the above three specific issues the Council must take into consideration
with this request, the Municipal Code requires that any sidewalk café at which alcohol is
served must operate with additional restrictions compared to those where alcohol is not
served. The additional, required restrictions that would apply to Noir are:
• Patron ingress and egress shall be controlled and continually monitored by staff
• No alcoholic beverages may be sold or served later than 10 p.m.
• Patrons may not consume outside beverages on the premises
Finally, the Municipal Code empowers the City Council to impose special conditions on
any sidewalk café granted an exception to dispense alcohol if it feels such restrictions
are appropriate.
Upon staff review of the application materials, the application appears complete and in
order. Noir does not currently have an Outdoor Service Privilege on file. Because
holding the appropriate liquor control license is a pre-requisite to allow alcohol service at
a sidewalk café, Council approval of Noir’s request to serve alcohol must be made
subject to obtaining and maintaining an Outdoor Service Privilege throughout the 2022
Sidewalk Café season.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the request from Noir to allow alcohol service at its sidewalk café during
the 2022 sidewalk café season, subject to Noir obtaining and maintaining its
Outdoor Service Privilege.
2. Approve the request as described in Alternative #1, but require Noir staff to
complete Police Department ID card training within the next 90 days as a
condition of ongoing approval.
3. Deny the request.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
It is important to ensure that alcohol service in public places occurs in an appropriate
environment. Municipal Code requires a higher level of scrutiny for establishments
where alcohol service is taking place and there is little to no food service, as compared
to establishments where alcohol is ancillary to the food service.
3
In this instance, the establishment has an exceptional compliance record, and has
adopted procedures that maintain a safe, controlled environment where alcohol is
served. The application for the sidewalk café indicates a proposed outdoor service area
that can be easily monitored and that does not attempt to overcrowd the area.
It should be noted that the alternatives presented indicate approval is for only the
2022 sidewalk café season (April through October, according to Municipal Code).
Sidewalk café applications must be completed anew each season; they do not carry
over from year-to-year. This follows the practice established with approval of previous
requests for alcohol service at sidewalk cafes. Requiring new requests each year
ensures an opportunity to review performance and impose special conditions or
withhold approval if the establishment fails to meet the Council’s expectations.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
ITEM #: Add’l Item
DATE: 3/22/22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: POWER PLANT SCADA SYSTEM SUPPORT SERVICE
BACKGROUND:
Electric Services uses a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) System to
monitor status and to control power flows, electric generation, interconnections to
neighboring utilities, distribution, and transmission. Data from the SCADA is also used as
the basis for billing energy transactions.
The existing SCADA system was installed in 2000 and has had routine software updates
about every 2 years. In 2008, 2015, and 2020 the hardware, operating system, and
software were all upgraded. The SCADA system was supplied and is supported by Open
Systems International, Inc. (OSI) from Medina, MN, and the software is based on
Microsoft “.NET” technology. Advancements have continued to be made to the software
to meet changing industry standards and regulations. The City has historically entered
into a support services agreement with OSI to keep pace with those changes and
to provide maintenance services at a reasonable price.
The last three years, the Power Plant has been operating under a contract with OSI that
provided required software upgrades and a support service plan consisting of the top level
of reliability and maintainability support that OSI offers. Before the most recent contract,
the Power Plant would continually have the top plan OSI offers, the Diamond Support
Plan. This plan would give the Power Plant all the support benefits needed including the
following:
• 24/7 Support for OSI provided products and software. This includes anything from
simple help desk questions to major system issues.
• Access to online training typically two times per month. Cost without a support plan
is $175 per class per person.
• Engineering/Installation costs for an annual software upgrade. This saves
approximately $20,000-40,000 each occurrence.
Staff has looked at downgrading to the Gold Support Plan, which provides all the benefits
of the Diamond Support Plan except the annual software upgrade. Staff believes a
software upgrade is only needed every other year. Therefore, options were explored with
OSI to switch between the Gold Support Plan and the Diamond Support Plan every other
year in order to take advantage of the reduced cost for the software upgrade. OSI has
agreed to this approach if the City would enter into a multi-year agreement. OSI
2
would also provide an additional discount as part of a multi-year agreement. The finance
details are shown below:
2022/23 Monarch Support Diamond $110,626
2023/24 Monarch Support Gold 67,269
2024/25 Monarch Support Diamond 116,227
2025/26 Monarch Support Gold 70,675
The total cost of $321,021 would be billed in 1/4 installments of $80,255.25 at the
beginning of each fiscal year.
Because the support for the SCADA system can only be provided by OSI, staff is
requesting that the City Council waive the City’s Purchasing Policies requiring
formal competitive bids, and award a contract to Open Systems International, Inc.,
of Medina, MN in the amount of $321,021.00 for the four-year commitment.
The FY 2022/23 operating budget includes $120,000 for SCADA system services,
repairs, and training. Future budget years will contain $80,255.25 for each year this
contract. The contract with OSI contains a non-appropriation clause to allow for
cancelation if funding is not available in future years.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Waive the City’s purchasing policy requirement for formal bidding procedures and
award a contract to Open Systems International, Inc., Medina, MN, for the Monarch
Support (Diamond/Gold/Diamond/Gold) for a four-year term for SCADA in the
amount of $321,021.00.
2. Discontinue the Support Service completely and adopt a “pay as you go” approach
for SCADA services, training and upgrades.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Regulatory authorities require the Electric Utility to maintain a functional SCADA system.
In addition, it is in the City’s best interest to maintain the SCADA system with the most
up-to-date software, and to do this in a timely and cost-effective manner. The most
effective way to maintain the SCADA system is to continue a Support Plan with our
existing SCADA software supplier that will alternate between the Gold and Diamond
support plans.
3
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1 as stated above.
1
ITEM # ____13__
DATE 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: LEASE AMENDMENT WITH T-MOBILE
BACKGROUND:
In December 1996, the City entered into an agreement with Western PCS (subsequently,
Western Wireless, subsequently Iowa Wireless Services, subsequently T-Mobile doing
business as iWireless, now T-Mobile Central, LLC) where space on top of the
Bloomington Road Elevated Tank (BRET) was leased for the purpose of placing and
operating cellular phone antennas. The lease also granted space adjacent the water
tower on the ground for the placement of equipment.
The lease periodically renews in five-year increments, provided both parties are
agreeable, with the monthly rental rates adjusting using a formula based on changes to
the CPI. The rent was last adjusted in January 2022, and is now $2,011.36 per month.
Periodically, cellular companies desire to replace or upgrade their equipment. When
those requests include an expanded footprint, either on the ground or on top of the tank,
the rental rate is renegotiated with the cellular company. If the work does not expand the
footprint or does not alter any of the other terms of the underlying master lease, then the
improvements are approved without modifying the monthly rent. Because the lease
includes descriptions of the equipment installed, an amendment to the lease is still
executed when there are changes to update the attachments to reflect the current
equipment present on the site.
2
Like many infrastructure entities, T-Mobile desires to install emergency standby power for
its antennas on BRET. The drawings provided by T-Mobile show the standby generator
located entirely within the existing fenced space already leased by T-Mobile. There would
be no increase in the space consumed by adding the equipment, and it would not
appreciably increase or complicate the City’s operation and maintenance of the tank. The
specifications for the fuel tank include a requirement for spill containment at the fill port,
and that the tank be an above-ground, double-walled tank with an interstitial leak
detection gauge. City staff has added a requirement that places an upper limit on the
size of the tank.
The proposed improvements have already been reviewed and approved by the Planning
and Housing Department, and T-Mobile is prepared to apply for the appropriate building
permits.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the amendment to the lease agreement with T-Mobile to authorize the
installation of an emergency standby generator to be installed adjacent to T-
Mobile’s existing infrastructure located at the Bloomington Road Elevated Tank.
2. Do not approve the lease amendment at this time.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Cellular phone infrastructure is important for citizens and the City, especially during
emergency events. Increasing the resiliency of cell service is something the City supports.
The improvements will have no material impacts on the use of the property for finished
water storage, and staff have given their approval to the proposed improvements.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
ITEM#: 14
DATE: 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: 2022 ELECTRIC RELIABILITY PLAN
BACKGROUND:
Electric Services manages its inspection and maintenance efforts under an adopted
reliability plan that has been filed with the Iowa Utilities Board. Historically, such plans
were prepared and approved at the City staff level.
The Iowa Utilities Board has recently adopted changes to its administrative code (IAC
199-27.10) and now requires each municipal electric utility to have its adopted reliability
plan approved by their respective governing authority, prior to filing updates to its existing
plans. Therefore, Electric Services is requesting Council to approve its adopted Reliability
Plan to satisfy this IUB requirement.
Staff has prepared a Reliability Plan statement, using guides and reference material
provided by the Iowa Association of Municipal Utilities (IAMU). The proposed Reliability
Plan statement is attached for reference.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the adoption of the 2022 Electric Reliability Plan statement.
2. Do not approve the 2022 Electric Reliability Plan statement.
3. Request further information from staff.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Iowa Administrative Code now requires the approval of the Electric Utility’s Electric
Reliability Plan by the City Council. City staff has prepared this statement using reference
materials supplied by IAMU to ensure compliance.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No.1, as noted above.
515.239.5170 main
515.239.5308
502 Carroll Ave.
Ames, IA 50010
Ames Municipal Electric Services
Wednesday, February 17, 2022
City of Ames Reliability Plan
The City of Ames strives to deliver safe, reliable and affordable power to its customers. While this reliability
plan focuses on information pertinent to reliability, other considerations cannot be overlooked in
balancing the needs of the customers with the business decisions of the system’s managers. The
purpose of this reliability plan is to meet the requirements of Iowa Administrative Code 199-27.10(3) (g).
This reliability plan does not replace, but merely supplements, information provided to the utility’s
governing authority throughout the year. This plan has been signed off on by the governing authority of
the City of Ames along with reliability data for the purpose of detailing the utility’s progress in achieving
certain strategic objectives as outlined in its strategic plan. This plan was prepared for the reporting
period of January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2022. During 2021, customers were able to contact the
City of Ames 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through an after-hours telephone number. Customers were
able to timely report service interruptions and other problems they experienced with electric service
through clearly defined communication channels.
The City of Ames reliability plan represents an integrated approach addressing the operation, maintenance,
and inspection of the electric system. Providing safe, reliable, and affordable electric service to meet the
needs of customers requires an intricate balance and consideration of all the above as well as the
resources available to achieve results. The City of Ames made reasonable efforts to avoid and prevent
service interruptions during the last year. However, when interruptions occurred, service was reestablished
within the shortest time practicable, consistent with safety.
The City of Ames has an effective preventive maintenance program and is capable of emergency repair work
on an appropriate scale to its scope of operations and to the physical condition of its electric facilities. This
program is included in our vegetation, substation , and visual inspection plans. To improve its
effectiveness, these plans are reviewed yearly. Quality of work and final delivery by contractors are also
assessed. The City of Ames continues to follow a written program for inspecting and maintaining its electric
supply lines and substations in order to determine the necessity for replacement, maintenance and repair,
and for tree pruning or other vegetation management. The City of Ames is currently following a schedule for
this written program to assure the completion of all areas within a 36 months timeline.
The City of Ames assesses the status of its distribution line equipment including animal guarding and pole mounted
power factor correction equipment. The City of Ames models and compares consumption metrics during peak load,
non-peak load and warm and cold conditions to issue maintenance jobs based on these assessments and conditions.
The City of Ames also installs lightning arresters at appropriate locations on distribution line equipment to
reduce outages and protect equipment and inspects them annually using infrared and visual inspections.
The City of Ames has a program of complete pole inspection, with the complete system scheduled to be
completed on a 10-year cycle including both overhead and groundline conditions. The program consists of
a complete inspection of the poles over 10 years of age and a report on all rejected poles that are to be
replaced. Poles are generally replaced within six months following inspection. Besides these two
inspections, The City of Ames also conducts a Visual Inspection on all transmission poles every fiscal year.
1
ITEM # ___15____
DATE 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: REQUEST TO MODIFY FY 2021/22 ASSET ALLOCATION TO
CHILDSERVE
BACKGROUND:
ChildServe has submitted a request to the City to modify its FY 2021/22 ASSET
allocation by transferring $6,000 from the Daycare – Infant program to Daycare –
Children (2 – 5 year old) program. ChildServe has exhausted its allocation of funds for
the Daycare – Children program due to higher than anticipated utilization of that
program. City funds allocated to the Daycare – Infant program have not been drawn
down at all due to lower than anticipated utilization.
The revised allocations appear in the table below.
Service Original Allocation Change Revised Allocation
If the request to transfer funds to the Children program is approved, the unit rates of
both programs will remain unchanged. The number of units purchased will increase for
the Children program and none will be provided for the Infant program since that
allocation would be transferred in its entirety to the Children program. ChildServe will
be able to draw down Children units already provided during this fiscal year but which
have not been paid because City funds have been exhausted in the Children program
since January 2022.
ChildServe has made similar requests to transfer City funds in the past. This type of
request is not unusual as the number of families with children requiring financial
assistance fluctuates.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the request to modify the City’s FY 2021/22 ASSET contract with
ChildServe by transferring $6,000 from Daycare – Infant to Daycare – Children.
2. Do not approve the request.
2
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
ChildServe submits its budget to ASSET based on estimates of the number of children
needing assistance. Due to an increased demand for Daycare – Children this fiscal
year, ChildServe is requesting that funds be transferred from the Infant program to the
Children program.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
5406 Merle Hay Road | Johnston, IA 50131 | 515.727.8750 | FAX 515.27.8757 | www.childserve.org
March 15, 2022
City Managers Office
515 Clark Avenue
Ames, Iowa 50010
To whom this may concern:
I am writing to request a change in the allocation for ASSET funds approved for day care
services. City funds have been used as follows from July 2021 through January 2022.
Service $Approved $ Spent $Balance
Dary Care-Infant $6,000.00 $0 $6,000
Day Care-children $15,000.00 $15,000.00` $0
We have experienced higher than anticipated utilization for children 2-5 years of age and
lower than anticipated for infants 0-24 months of age. As a result I am requesting that
$6,000.00 be reallocated from Day Care-Infant to Day Care-Children to assure that funds
are available through the end of the fiscal year for the children using the city ASSET
funds. This does not change the total amount of funds requested and approved. We will
have expended the funds approved for Day Care Children from the other ASSET funding
agencies by the end of the year.
We currently continue to serve 4 Day Care-Children who will need funding from
February through June 2022. All of these children reside in Story County.
Thank you for your consideration of this request.
Sincerely,
Rachelle Flory
Ames Program Manager
1
ITEM # ___16____
DATE 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: REQUEST TO MODIFY FY 2021/22 ASSET ALLOCATION TO
HEARTLAND SENIOR SERVICES
BACKGROUND:
Heartland Senior Services (HSS) has submitted a request to the City to modify its FY
2021/22 ASSET allocation by transferring $16,912 from Congregate Meals and $23,012
from Activity and Resource Center to the Home Delivered Meals (HDM) program. HSS
has exhausted its City allocation of funds for HDM due to ongoing ramifications of the
COVID-19 Pandemic that continue to increase program participation. HSS reports that
prior to the Pandemic, they averaged 125 meal deliveries per day. That number
increased during the Pandemic to 200 per day, and in March 2022, HSS is experiencing
yet another increase to 250 meal deliveries per day.
HSS re-opened the Activity and Resource Center and the Congregate meal site in July
2021, but needed to close these services again in December 2021 because of the
omicron variant. HSS anticipates both of these programs having minimal participation
for the remainder of the current fiscal year.
The revised allocations appear in the table below.
Service Original Allocation Change Revised Allocation
If the request to transfer funds to the HDM program is approved, the unit rates of all
three programs will remain unchanged. The number of units purchased will increase for
the HDM program and a reduction will occur for the Congregate Meals and Activity and
Resource Center since the remaining amounts would be transferred in their entirety to
the HDM program. HSS will be able to draw down HDM units already provided
during this fiscal year but which have not been paid because City funds have
been exhausted since December 2021 in the HDM program.
2
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the request to modify the City’s FY 2021/22 ASSET contract with HSS
by transferring $16,912 from Congregate Meals and $23,012 from Activity and
Resource Center to Home Delivered Meals.
2. Do not approve the request.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Heartland Senior Services has proactively adjusted its nutrition services throughout the
COVID-19 Pandemic by addressing the demand for Home Delivered Meals. The
transferring of City funds will provide the support for this continued need in the
community. Similar requests have been made to other ASSET funders, specifically
Story County and United Way of Story County.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
HSS Mission: Heartland Senior Services of Story County offers life–enriching
opportunities for older adults and provides support for their families and caregivers.
205 S. Walnut Avenue, Ames, IA 50010
(515) 233-2906 (office)
(515) 231-4354 (cell)
ncarroll@hsservicesia.com
March 22, 2022
Honorable Mayor John Haila and City Council Members:
On behalf of our Board of Directors, we respectfully request that the City transfer
$23,012 from Activities and $16,912 from Congregate Meals to Meals on Wheels. These
transfers in ASSET funding would total $39,924.
This request is being made in response to the ongoing ramifications of the pandemic.
Although we began offering Congregate Meals and Activities in July 2021, these two
programs were placed on hold again due to the omicron variant in December 2021.
Further, we anticipate they will receive minimal participation the balance of this fiscal
year.
In contrast – due to the omicron variant - Meals on Wheels participation has continued to
increase. Prior to the pandemic deliveries totaled 125/day, a year into the pandemic
delivers totaled 200/day, and in March 2022 this number now totals 250/day. The
majority of seniors that were attending Congregate Meals receive Meals on Wheels.
It should be noted, in direct response to the number of seniors in need of receiving Meals
on Wheels, the funding the City authorized for FY21/22, $78,324, was drawn-down in
December 2021.
Thank you for considering this request. If you need additional information please
contact me.
Sincerely,
Nancy
Nancy Carroll
Executive Director
1
ITEM #: ___17__
DATE: 03/22/22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: REQUESTS FOR FREDDY FUN RUN
BACKGROUND:
Frederiksen Court Community Center has submitted plans to host Freddy Fun Run this
spring. Freddy Fun Run will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, April
23. Approximately 225 people are anticipated to attend.
The race route will begin in Frederiksen Court heading east, will cross to the east side
of Haber Road and utilize the shared-use path towards 13th Street. Runners will use the
shared use path on 13th Street towards the east and will follow the path into Brookside
Park. At 6th Street, runners will be on the road in a coned-off portion of the street and
will continue west onto University Boulevard in the street. At Stange Road, runners will
return to the shared-use path back to the beginning of the 5K route.
Traffic will be temporarily stopped at intersections to allow groups of runners to pass
through. To facilitate this event, closure of portions of 6th Street are required, along with
a blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit. The University Boulevard portion of the street
closures is under the jurisdiction of ISU, so no Council action is required to authorize the
lane closure on that roadway.
2
A rain date of April 24 has been requested for this event. Insurance for this event is
provided through the University.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the requests to:
a. Close portions of 6th Street from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
b. Apply a blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit to temporarily stop traffic at
intersections to allow groups of runners to pass through.
2. Deny the requests.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
ISU Frederiksen Court Community along with ISU affiliated organizations are
sponsoring this 5K run/walk to promote fitness and sustainability for ISU students. They
are highly dependent upon City approval of street closures so the event can be offered
in a safe and smooth manner.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative #1a and b, as stated above.
1
ITEM # ___18___
DATE _03/22/22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: AMES MAIN STREET REQUESTS FOR MUSIC WALK
BACKGROUND:
Ames Main Street (AMS) is planning to host its annual Music Walk event on Thursday,
April 28, 2022, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. AMS staff has made the following requests
of the City Council to help facilitate the Musk Walk festivities on April 28:
• Blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit for the Central Business District sidewalks
and Blanket Vending License for the Central Business District from 3:00 to 9:00
p.m.
• Waiver for fee for Blanket Vending License ($50 loss to City Clerk’s Office)
• Use of City-owned electrical outlets and waiver of costs from 3:00 to 9:00 p.m.
(approximately $5 loss to Electric Fund)
Ames Main Street is also requesting a closure of 10 metered parking spaces in the
Downtown area from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. to provide space for vendors, and to waive
parking meter fees and enforcement (Loss of $12.50 to Parking Fund). The Council’s
policy regarding parking waivers is to consider requests such as this one on a case-by-
case basis, as opposed to requiring reimbursement for lost parking revenue. Lost
parking revenue is only required to be reimbursed under this policy when the parking
waiver is District-wide.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the Music Walk requests as submitted by AMS.
2. Approve the Music Walk requests as submitted by AMS, but require
reimbursement for the parking meter fees, Vending License, and/or electricity
use.
3. Do not approve.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
This event provides residents with another opportunity to enjoy family-oriented outdoor
activities. Because of the City Council’s goal of strengthening Downtown, this type of
special event should be facilitated.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
304 Main Street, Ames, IA 50010 515.233.3472 AmesDowntown.org
February 1, 2022
Mayor and City Council
City of Ames
515 Clark Ave
Ames, IA 50010
Dear Mayor Haila and Members of the Ames City Council,
Ames Main Street is planning to hold Ames Main Street Music Walk on April 28 th, 2022 from
5pm-8pm.
Specific information about the event can be found on the included Special Event Application. We
would also request a Temporary Obstruction Permit, and a waiver of fees for the Blanket Vendor
Permit, electricity and the 10 requested parking spaces.
By bringing residents to Downtown Ames for attractions such as this, Ames Main Street can fulfill
its mission as a Main Street Iowa community and create an economically vibrant downtown with
unique living, dining, and entertainment experiences.
Thank you for your consideration of this request and continued support of Ames Main Street. We
look forward to seeing you shopping in Downtown Ames!
Sincerely,
Sarah Dvorsky
Executive Director
Ames Main Street
1 1
For Office Use Only
Documents Received
Date: ____________________
___ Completed Application
___ Fireworks Application
($25 fee)
___ Insurance Certificate
___ Public Safety & Event
Management Plan
___ Site Plan/Route Map
($25 fee) (Road Race)
___ Vendor List
($50 fee/each)
___ Parking fees
Special Events Meeting
Date ____________________
Time ____________________
Room ___________________
Documents Sent:
___ Alcohol License
ABD ________________
___ Fireworks Permit
___ Road Race Permit
___ TOP
___ Permit
___ Other ________________
Departments Included
___ City Manager: Brian
Phillips and Tasheik Kerr
___ CyRide: Jenny Bethurem
or Rob Holm
___ Electric: Mark Imhoff
___ Fire: Jason Ziph or Rich
Higgins
___ Parks & Rec: Craig
Kaufman or Joshua
Thompson
___ Public Works: Brad Becker
or Dave Cole
___ Police: or
___ Water:
___ Risk Management: Bill
Walton
CAA: Kar n Chitty
:
ISU: Events
Authorization Committee
City Council Meeting
Date _____________________
___ Added to Agenda with CAF
Approved Y N
Reminder Date ____________
SPECIAL EVENT APPLICATION
Applications received less than thirty (30) days before the event may not be processed by
the City in time for the event and will automatically be denied. Each application is viewed
as a new event regardless of previous occasions.
Event Name
Location/Address
Region (Select one or more)
Main Street (Downtown)
Campustown District
Iowa State University Property
City Parks
Other (please explain)
Please note that events occurring in the Downtown, Campustown, in City parks, or on ISU property
require prior approvals. A letter of support will be required from CAA if the event occurs in
Campustown or from if the event occurs in Downtown. Please contact the
appropriate office well in advance:
Downtown -: (515) 233-3472 Campustown -
Campustown Action Association: (515) 450-8771 ISU - Events
Authorization Committee: (515) 294-1437
@amesdowntown.org
director@amescampustown.com
eventauthorization@iastate.edu
TIMELINE
Detailed Description of Event Activities (written overview of event and what’s going to happen)
Event Ends Date Time M T W R F Sa Su
Teardown
Complete Date Time M T W R F Sa Su
Event Category
Concert/Performance
Farmer/Outdoor Market
Other (please explain)
Athletic/Recreation
Exhibits/Misc.
Festival/Celebration
Parade/Procession/March
Rain Date Rain Location
Yes No
Is this an annual event? If yes, how many years?
Setup Date Time M T W R F Sa Su
Event Starts Date Time M T W R F Sa Su
2
CONTACTS
State Zip Code
Cell Phone
Cell Phone
Sponsor/Applicant Name
Address
City
Daytime Phone
E-mail
Alternate Contact Name
Daytime Phone
E-mail
ATTENDANCE
Anticipated Daily Attendance
Yes No
Is this event open to the public?
Is your event being held in conjunction with another event (e.g.Farmers' Market, 4th of July,
etc.)? If yes, please list:
ORGANIZATION STATUS/PROCEEDS
For-Profit
Bona Fide Tax Exempt
Nonprofit
Yes No
Are patron admission, entry, or participant fees required? If yes, please describe and provide
amounts:
Are vendor or other fees required? If yes, please provide amounts:
Percentage of net proceeds going towards fundraising %
Percentage of net proceeds going towards for-profit entity %
SECURITY
Ames Police Department 24 hour non-emergency phone number: 515-239-5133
Please complete the course at https://www.crowdmanagers.com/training for crowd management training.
Yes No
Have you hired a professional security company to develop and manage your event’s security plan?
If yes, please fill out the following information:
Security Organization
State Zip Phone
Address
City
Email
1
ITEM#: 19
DATE: 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: BEACH AVENUE - ELECTRIC UTILITY EASEMENT ON STATE OF
IOWA PROPERTY
BACKGROUND:
Electric Services is planning to replace a buried electric line along the east side of Beach
Avenue between Sunset Drive and Country Club Boulevard in spring 2022. The existing
line has failed and been repaired several times. The replacement line will be more reliable
and have increased capacity to accommodate projected electric load growth in the area.
Due to the distance between Sunset Drive and Country Club Boulevard (approx. 900 ft),
two pull boxes will need to be buried along the line. The pull boxes will enable Electric
Services crews to install the new line in shorter sections to avoid damaging the line.
Multiple buried utility lines (gas, telephone, CATV, etc.) on the east side of Beach Avenue
prevent the placement of the pull boxes in public right-of-way. The Iowa State Center is
located on the east side of the Beach Avenue right-of-way and would provide a suitable
location for the installation of the pull boxes. To accomplish this, the City and ISU must
approve an agreement for an electric utility easement. ISU is willing to grant a 50-
year easement.
Staff from Iowa State University Facilities Planning & Management is supportive of the
placement of the pull boxes on the Iowa State Center site. The State Board of Regents
is expected to approve the easement at the April 2022 Board meeting in exchange for $1
in consideration. The easement agreement does require the City to move its facilities
if ISU requests so in the future, but ISU would pay the cost of relocation on a
prorated basis over a 30-year period (i.e., ISU covers 100% of the relocation if it
takes place in year one, decreasing to a 0% obligation at 30 years).
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the Electric Utility Easement on State of Iowa property for the installation
of the electrical pull boxes.
2. Do not approve the Electric Utility Easement on State of Iowa property and direct
Electric Services’ staff to find an alternative location for the electrical pull boxes.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Electrical load is projected to increase in the area south of the Iowa State University
campus. The replacement of a buried line with one having greater capacity will allow
2
Electric Services the ability to maintain the quality of service to the area. An easement
on ISU property is required to install the two electrical pull boxes for this project.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as noted above.
ITEM#: 20
DATE: 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: CYRIDE - ELECTRIC UTILITY EASEMENT ON STATE OF IOWA
PROPERTY
BACKGROUND:
Electric Services needs to install a pad-mounted transformer at CyRide to provide service
to the charging stations for the new electric buses scheduled to be delivered later this
year. The transformer will be placed adjacent to the CyRide building.
CyRide is located on land leased from Iowa State University. An electric utility easement
has been prepared that covers the new transformer location as well as the existing electric
facilities owned by the City of Ames, located on State of Iowa property, that provide
service to CyRide. An easement for the existing facilities has never been created until
now. ISU is willing to grant a 50-year easement.
Staff from Iowa State University Facilities Planning & Management is supportive of the
placement of the transformer on the CyRide site and recording of the easement. The
Iowa Board of Regents is expected to approve the easement at the April 2022 Board
meeting in exchange for $1 in consideration. The easement agreement does require
the City to move its facilities if ISU requests so in the future, and ISU is not
obligated to pay for the cost of relocation.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the Electric Utility Easement on State of Iowa property that covers a new
pad-mounted transformer and existing City-owned electric facilities not previously
covered by an easement.
2. Do not approve the Electric Utility Easement on State of Iowa property and direct
Electric Services’ staff to find an alternative location for the transformer.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
An electric utility easement guarantees the City rights to own and maintain its facilities on
private property. This easement will ensure that Electric Services can provide reliable
service to CyRide.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as noted above.
1
ITEM # __21_ __
DATE: 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: SOUTH 16TH STREET IMPROVEMENTS
BACKGROUND:
This project, to reconstruct and add turn lanes at S. Duff Avenue and S. 16th Street, is
one of the phases associated with the extension of S Grand Avenue. The projects have
been broken into three phases to allow for flexibility in timing of construction and funding:
1) S 5th St and S Grand Ave (Ioway Creek Drive to S 5th St.) (Completed)
2) S Grand Ave south of S 5th Street (this portion includes two bridges to
accommodate Squaw Creek under the roadway). (Substantially Complete)
3) Reconstruction and additional turn lanes at S Duff Ave and S 16th St. (This project)
Work includes turn lane and traffic signal improvements at S 16th Street/S Duff Avenue,
reconstruction of concrete pavement on S 16th Street each direction of S Duff Avenue,
and infill of sidewalk along the south side of S 16th Street from S Grand Avenue to just
west of Menards.
On February 16, 2022, bids for the project were received as follows:
Bidder Base Bid Amount
Engineer’s Estimate $ 3,835,811.40
On February 22, 2022, City Council accepted the report of bids for this project. Due
to the substantial cost difference between the lowest bid and the Engineer’s
Estimate, staff requested that the City Council delay the award of bid to provide
time to analyze the bids and the project financing.
City staff and the project consultant have identified several aspects of the project as
leading to the high bids. Therefore, City staff believes the appropriate course of
action would be to reject the award of bids and make substantial modifications to
the project. These modifications include:
1) Rerouting the storm sewer pipe along the north side of the roadway to instead be
on the south side. This change helps eliminate all high-cost pipes due to the
previous proximity to existing water main to using standard pipes, and all the
modified storm structures to standard structures.
2
2) Extending the completion date to provide the contractor the flexibility to complete
the west side of the intersection this year and the east side in 2023.
Although staff and the consulting engineer believe these modifications will reduce
the cost of the construction compared to the bids originally received, the revised
estimate also reflects an increased cost of construction materials and services.
Therefore, these revisions result in an increased construction cost estimate of
$3,870,395.80 compared to the previously bid plans.
If approved, the revised plans would be sent out for bids in April, and completion of the
majority of the project would be able to occur in the 2022 construction season.
Revenues and expenses for this project, reflecting the revised Engineer’s Estimate, are
as follows:
Activity Expenses Revenue
S 16th St/S Duff Ave Imp (Revised plans) 3,870,395.80
TOTAL $20,006,620.91 $20,021,485
3
ALTERNATIVES:
1. a. Approve the final plans and specifications for this project.
b. Reject the South 16th Street Improvements project bids and direct staff to
re-bid the project.
c. Approve revised plans and specifications for the South 16th Street
Improvements project and establish April 6, 2022, as the date of letting and
April 12, 2022, as the date for report of bids.
2. a. Approve the final plans and specifications for this project.
b. Award the contract to Con-Struct of Ames, IA in the amount of
$4,200,984.71.
3. Reject all bids and do not proceed with this project during the 2022 construction
season, delaying instead to the 2023 construction season.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Rejecting the bids and approving revised preliminary plans and specifications will allow
this project to be re-bid and will result in lower street maintenance costs, improve area
drainage, and provide a better traffic flow at the intersection of S Duff Avenue and S 16th
Street.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
ITEM#: 22
DATE: 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: 2020/21 CONCRETE PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM (FORD
ST., BELL AVE., S. 17TH ST., S. KELLOGG AVE)
BACKGROUND:
This is an annual program to rehabilitate or reconstruct concrete streets that have
deteriorated in order to prevent further breakdown of the pavement. This work will
provide enhanced rideability, lower routine maintenance costs, and an improved
aesthetic.
This project includes removal and replacement of selected deficient concrete panels.
Staff met on-site with the impacted businesses who reached out about staging and
access needs. Comments from those meetings were incorporated into the project.
Staff has completed plans and specifications for this project with total estimated
construction costs and funding as listed below.
Available
Revenue
Estimated
Expenses
Construction (This project)
Engineering/Administration (total combined)
$1,284,528.26
666,563.00
305,000.00
$ 2,400,000 $2,256,091.26
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve plans and specifications for the 2020/21 Concrete Pavement
Improvement (Ford St., Bell Ave., S. 17th St., S. Kellogg Ave.) project and
establish April 20, 2022, as the date of letting and April 26, 2022, as the date for
the report of bids.
2. Direct staff to pursue changes to the project.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Approving these plans and specifications will result in lower street maintenance costs
and provide a better neighborhood aesthetic.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1 as noted above.
1
ITEM # ____23_
DATE: 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: POWER PLANT UNIT 8 TURBINE GENERATOR OVERHAUL
PROJECT - CONTRACT COMPLETION FOR BLADE RUNNER
TURBOMACHINERY SERVICES, LLC
BACKGROUND
On June 23, 2020, the City Council approved plans and specifications for the Unit 8 Turbine-
Generator Overhaul Project. The Unit 8 Turbine-Generator is disassembled at regular
intervals to inspect the turbine and the generator for repairs and to install replacement parts
that may be needed to prevent unplanned turbine-generator outages, prevent costly turbine-
generator damage, and increase turbine-generator efficiency and reliability.
Award of contract was made October 13, 2020, to Blade Runner Turbomachinery Services
(BRTS), LLC of Navasota, Texas, for the base bid and Alternate #10 (Turbine Lube Oil
System High Speed Flush) in the amount of $699,800 (plus applicable sales taxes to be
paid by the City).
There were five change orders to the Blade Runner Turbomachinery Services contract.
Change Order #1: On September 28, 2021, was done to increase the purchase order by
$607,678.37 (exclusive of Iowa sales tax) to ship the Unit 8 generator rotor offsite to be
disassembled, inspected, rewound, and electrically tested and balanced.
Change Order #2: On October 21, 2021, was done to increase the purchase order by
$26,993.86 (exclusive of Iowa sales tax) to disassemble and clean valves and seat.
Change Order #3: On October 26, 2021, was done to increase the purchase order by
$181,357.44 (exclusive of Iowa sales tax) to conduct balance test and for additional repairs
to Unit 8.
Change Order #4: On November 23, 2021, was done to increase the purchase order by
$123,843.27 (exclusive of Iowa sales tax) for additional work not included in the original
scope due to the Unit 8 crane delay.
Change Order #5: On January 14, 2022, was done to increase the purchase order by
$1,175.12 (exclusive of Iowa sales tax) for additional materials.
All the requirements of the contract have been met by Blade Runner Turbomachinery
Services LLC and the Engineer has provided a certificate of completion.
Final expenditures to Blade Runner Turbomachinery Services LLC of Navasota, TX are in
the total amount of $1,640,848.06 (exclusive of sales tax). The Blade Runner expenses are
indicated in bold in the table below:
2
VENDOR SERVICE COST
Argo Parts $ 1,077,109.00
Argo City to pay sales tax 74,711.63
MD&A Parts (sales tax included) 190,071.71
Power Plant Services Parts (sales tax included) 147,224.65
Burns & McDonnell Engineering 39,176.89
General Electric Technical Support 311,470.00
Blade Runner Prime Contractor 1,640,848.06
Blade Runner City to pay sales tax 114,859.36
Total $ 3,595,471.30
Funding for the Unit 8 Turbine-Generator Overhaul Project was originally budgeted in the
2019/20 CIP in the amount of $3,000,000. Funds to finance expenses exceeding that
amount will be taken from savings related to Unit 7 Boiler Repair Project CIP, the Unit 7
Turbine-Generator Overhaul CIP, and the Unit 8 Turbine & Generator Maintenance account.
In total, funds are available for this project as follows:
2019/20 Unit #8 Turbine Generator Overhaul CIP
Materials/Parts $1,000,000.00
Construction 1,650,000.00
GE Tech Support 350,000.00
Unit 7 Boiler Tube CIP 311,623.00
Unit 7 Overhaul CIP 288,924.12
Unit 8 Turbine & Generator Maint. 55,000.00
TOTAL $3,655,547.12
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Accept completion of the contract with Blade Runner Turbomachinery Services LLC
of Navasota, TX for the Unit 8 Turbine Generator Overhaul.
2. Delay acceptance of this project.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The project has now been completed in accordance with the approved plans and
specifications.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1 as stated above.
Staff Report
PROCESS TO HANDLE FUTURE OUTSIDE FUNDING REQUESTS
March 22, 2022
BACKGROUND:
The recommendations related to the Capital Improvements Plan and annual operating
budget are developed by the City Manager with human service funding recommendations
coming from ASSET and arts funding recommendations from COTA. More recently, a
process was established to process other outside funding requests. This process is
administered by the Assistant City Manager with recommendations based on evaluation
criteria previously established by the City Council. The eligibility criteria include:
•Funds may only be awarded to an organization with a Tax ID number for non-
profit activities.
•Funds provided are to be used towards an event or service that is open to the
whole community.
•ISU organizations requesting funds must be recognized by the Student
Activities Center, and any event funded must be open to the public and
approved by the ISU Events Authorization Committee.
Preference will be given to requests that achieve the following criteria,
listed in order of priority:
1. A program or activity that would otherwise be operated by the City at a greater
cost
2. Requests that have broad-based appeal to the community, demonstrated by
the number of participants
3. Requests that provide a unique benefit or service to the community
4. Requests that pursue current City Council goals
Regardless of these criteria, activities previously funded by this program
are not grandfathered. Each proposal must be justified with each new grant
request.
Since this program’s inception, the majority of the requests for operational support have
reoccurred each year for such entities as Main Street Cultural District, Campustown
Action Committee, Hunziker Sports Complex, AEDC, and Ames Historical Society.
The program is advertised on the City’s web site and recommended to those who have
submitted requests for City Council funding. The submittal deadline from this program is
in November. During the Budget Guideline meeting in December, the City Council
Item No. 24
determines the pot of money that will be available for the program. Staff then submits its
recommended allocations to the City Council at the end of January.
THE ISSUE:
Over the years more and more entities are not utilizing the established Outside Funding
process and are instead going directly to the City Council with their requests. It has
reached a point where it does not seem fair that some funding requests are going through
the established process for consideration and are judged against one another, while
others are bypassing the review process. This trend places the City Council in a
difficult position of not prioritizing all the requests at one time and not relying on
the program eligibility criteria when judging each request. Therefore, at the
conclusion of the latest budget cycle, the City Council requested the staff come
back with a recommended process that is fair and applied consistently when
determining which outside entity’s budget request will be approved.
RECOMMENDED PROCESS:
In July 2022, the City Council will review the existing Outside Funding Program criteria
and determine what, if any, modifications should be made to the criteria.
In October 2022, everyone who makes a funding request at the Town Budget Meeting or
submits a funding request to the staff or City Council will be instructed that in order to be
considered for funding they must fill out the formal application and proceed through the
Outside Funding Program.
In November 2022, all applications for outside funding requests will be due into the City
Manager’s Office.
In December 2022, the City Council will establish the pot of money for the “on-going”
requests, as is currently the practice. For FY 2022/23, this total pot is $277,659.
In February 2023, the City Council will review the staff’s recommendations regarding both
one-time and on-going requests and make final decisions regarding funding for all the
outside requests after reviewing each of them together in accordance with the established
criteria. Funding for any “one-time” requests (e.g., Ames Historical Society for
construction assistance) will have to come from fund balances, if available. The total
allocated for one-time requests totaled $273,600 in FY 2022/23.
STAFF COMMENTS:
It is advisable that the City Council stands firm requiring each requesting party
(either a citizen or Council member) to comply with the established Outside
Funding Program procedures, criteria, and deadlines, and be prepared to disqualify
from consideration those requests that are not compliant.
While it is possible to justify approval of outside funding at other times of the year,
this should be the exception rather than the rule.
1
ITEM # __25___
DATE 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: NAMING POLICY FOR CITY PLACES, FACILITIES, AND STRUCTURES
BACKGROUND:
At the February 8, 2022 City Council meeting, the City Council directed staff to place on
a future Council agenda a proposed naming policy for municipal properties, similar to the
existing Parks & Recreation Policy. Using the Parks and Recreation Naming Policy as a
guide, staff has drafted a policy that would be applicable to City facilities that are not
related to Parks and Recreation features.
The proposed policy divides properties that may be named into three categories: facilities,
major features, and amenities. Naming proposals may be considered for historic events,
people, or places, outstanding individuals, or major donations. Criteria are included to
review the proposed naming and record the reasons for the proposal. Although naming
proposals can be submitted by the public, the City Council and City Manager may also
submit naming proposals to the City Council for consideration.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the attached “City of Ames Naming Policy”
2. Modify the attached policy
3. Do not approve a naming policy
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The attached policy provides guidance to accept and consider proposals for the naming
of City property. The provisions included largely reflect the similar policy in place for Parks
and Recreation features. Adopting this policy will provide for a standardized, thorough,
and accessible path for naming proposals to be considered and approved.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1 as described above.
CITY OF AMES NAMING POLICY
(For non-Parks and Recreation Facilities, Major Features, and Amenities)
1. INTRODUCTION
The naming or renaming of city facilities, major features, or amenities is a
complex and sometimes emotionally evocative since assigning a name is a
powerful and permanent identity for public property. The naming and renaming of
facilities, major features, or amenities often requires significant resources in
terms of changing names on signs, maps, and literature. In addition, excessive
and constant name changing can be the source of confusion to the public. The
purpose of this policy is to provide guidance to those that have an interest in the
naming and or renaming of the City’s facilities, major features, or amenities.
2. OTHER APPLICABLE POLICIES
In some circumstances, naming of a facility, major feature, or amenity is subject
to another policy the City has adopted. These include:
a. Parks and Recreational Facilities:
The naming of parks and recreational facilities, major features, and
amenities is subject to the separate Parks and Recreation Naming Policy.
These include all traditionally designed parks, gardens, natural open
spaces, woodlands, and specialized parks, and all major structures such
as community centers, swimming pools, and enclosed pavilions located on
lands under the stewardship of the City of Ames Parks and Recreation
Department.
b. Streets:
The naming of streets is subject to specific criteria separate from this
policy, which are outlined in the City’s Administrative Program for Street
Naming and Addressing. However, a roadway feature such as a bridge or
tunnel is subject to the City of Ames Naming Policy.
3. DEFINITIONS
a. Naming:
The permanent name assigned by City Council to a given facility, major
feature, or amenity.
b. Facilities:
Buildings or structures such as fire stations, utility plants, bridges, City
office buildings, community centers, swimming pools, plaza, electric
substations, and enclosed pavilions.
3
c. Major Features:
Permanent areas or objects, such as rooms within facilities or roadway
features.
d. Amenities:
Smaller features, such as equipment or furnishings (e.g., training
apparatus, boardroom tables, benches, etc.). Recognition for donated
amenities is possible.
e. Donations:
A donation of property, goods or cash generally with no expectation of
return. If the gift is contingent upon a special request, it is made subject to
“condition.”
4. POLICY STATEMENT
It is the policy of the City of Ames to reserve the naming or renaming of facilities,
major features, and/or amenities for circumstances that will best serve the
interests of the City and ensure a worthy and enduring legacy for the City.
To this end, the City of Ames supports consideration of naming requests within
the following broad categories.
a. Historic Events, People, and Places
The history of a major event, place, or person may play an important role
in the naming or renaming of a place as communities often wish to
preserve and honor the history of a city, its founders, other historical
figures, its Native American heritage, local landmarks and prominent
geographical locations, and natural and geological features through the
naming of parks.
b. Outstanding Individuals
The City has benefited, through its evolution, from the contributions made
by many outstanding individuals. This category is designed to
acknowledge the sustained contribution that has been made by such
individuals to the City.
c. Major Donations
Over the years, the City of Ames has benefited from the generosity of
some of its residents, businesses, and foundations. On occasion, the
significance of such donations may warrant consideration being given to
requests from either the donor or another party to acknowledge such
donations by naming.
4
5. GUIDING PRINCIPLES
a. Naming/renaming for Historic Events, People, and Places
When considering naming a facility, major feature, or amenity after events,
people and places of historic, cultural or social significance, requests must
demonstrate this significance through research and documentation and
show there is continued importance to the city, region, state, and/or
nation.
b. Naming/renaming for Outstanding Individuals
A facility, major feature, or amenity may be named for an outstanding
individual who has made a significant contribution to the City of Ames, the
State of Iowa, or the nation. In addition to societal contributions, the moral
character of the individual must be considered. When considering
requests, it is preferred that the individual has a connection to the facility,
major feature, or amenity being requested to be named.
c. Naming/Renaming for Major Donations
From time to time, a significant donation may be made to the City that will
add considerable value to the City’s resources and/or services. On such
occasions, recognition of this donation by naming/renaming a facility,
major feature, or amenity in honor of or at the request of the donor will be
considered.
The City Council may use its discretion as to what dollar amount is worthy
of naming rights for individual projects, on a case-by-case basis.
Donors seeking naming rights for major donations with respect to an
individual should follow the principles outlined in 4.b. (Outstanding
Individuals). Exceptions to this will be considered on their own merits.
Naming facilities with a company name is not permitted; however,
company names will be considered for Major Features and Amenities.
Corporate logos, insignias, brands, or direct advertising text shall not be
permitted
d. Renaming a facility, major feature, or amenity
Proposals to rename facilities, major features, or amenities, regardless of
the rationale for the original naming, are not encouraged. Likewise, names
that have become widely accepted by the community will not be
abandoned unless there are compelling reasons and strong public
sentiment from the broader community for doing so. Historical or
commonly used place names will be preserved wherever possible.
e. Other Considerations
5
When naming/renaming a facility, major feature, or amenity, does the
proposed name engender a strong positive image, have historical, cultural
or social significance for future generations, and have broad public
support?
To minimize confusion, individual facilities or features will not be
subdivided for the purpose of naming unless there are readily identifiable
physical divisions. Major features should be named differently from the
facilities in which they exist to avoid user confusion.
All signs that indicate the name of a facility, major feature, or amenity shall
comply with City of Ames graphic and design standards. Specialized
naming signage will not be permitted.
The City of Ames reserves the right to rename any facility, major feature,
or amenity if the person or entity for whom it is named turns out to be
disreputable or subsequently acts in a disreputable way.
6. PROCEDURES
These procedures have been established to ensure that the naming or renaming
of facilities, major features, and/or amenities is approached in a consistent
manner.
a. Requests from the public to name/rename facilities, major features,
and/or amenities
All requests for the naming or renaming of a facility, major feature, or
amenity shall be made by submitting a Naming Application to the City
Manager.
The Naming Application will contain the following minimum information:
1. The proposed name
2. Reasons for the proposed name
3. Written documentation indicating a certification of character and
community support for the proposed name (e.g. letters of support,
petitions, etc.)
4. If proposing to name a specific area within a facility or major
feature, include a description/map showing the location within the
larger area.
5. If proposing to rename a facility, major feature, or amenity, include
justification for changing an established name.
6
6. If proposing to name a facility, major feature, or amenity for an
outstanding individual, include documentation of that individual’s
significant contribution to the City, State and/or Nation
b. Assessing and approving naming/renaming requests
Upon receipt of a naming request, the City Manager shall:
1. Review the proposed request for its adherence to the City of Ames
Naming Policy.
2. Ensure that supporting information has been authenticated,
particularly when an individual’s name is proposed
3. Seek input from relevant neighborhood association(s), historical
groups, and other organizations, if deemed appropriate
The City Manager will then present a recommendation regarding the
naming request at a public meeting to the City Council.
c. Independently of a request from the public, the City Manager or the
City Council itself may submit naming proposals for City Council
consideration.
d. Final decision by City Council
The decision by the City Council to approve or deny a name change shall
be considered final.
1
ITEM # __26____
DATE: 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: INTIATION OF APPLICATION FOR VOLUNTARY ANNEXATION OF
LAND LOCATED AT 2219 AND 2121 STATE AVENUE
BACKGROUND:
The City has received an annexation petition from the ISU Board of Regents, representing
two parcels totaling 10.79 acres located at 2219 & 2121 State Avenue (Curtis Farm). The
property is in Story County on the west side of State Avenue, north of Worle Creek and
south of Highway 30 (See Attachment A). The applicant requests that the City Council
authorize the annexation, which was requested by City staff in conjunction with recent
utility improvement requests from ISU related to its feed mill project and the Curtis Farm.
The subject area currently creates a peninsula of unincorporated land extending west
from State Avenue. The inclusion of the subject property into the City will remove
this peninsula and create a more uniform boundary along the west side of State
Avenue, without creating any islands of unincorporated land. The proposed
annexation is 100% voluntary; no non-consenting properties are included in the
petition.
The first step in the annexation process is for the City Council to accept the annexation
petition, refer it to the Planning & Zoning Commission for its recommendation, and begin
the required notification process outlined in state law.
PRIOR CONSENTS TO ANNEXATION:
In 2011, owners of two properties located at 2114 & 2126 State Avenue petitioned the
City for water service, as they were unable to receive Xenia Rural Water service. These
properties are adjacent to the subject property and total 2.79 acres. At that time,
annexing these properties to provide Ames water was not possible without
creating an unincorporated island out of the ISU properties now being considered
for annexation. Therefore, these property owners entered into a Covenant & Agreement
for Annexation to receive Ames’ water.
According to each Covenant & Agreement for Annexation, these properties are not
required to annex until such time as the City requests their annexation. Since the ISU
properties are now being proposed for annexation, the Council could proceed with
annexation of the properties at 2114 & 2126 State Avenue at any time, either in
conjunction with the annexation of the adjacent ISU properties at 2219 & 2121 State
Avenue, or as a separate annexation following the annexation of the ISU properties.
2
Annexation of the two ISU properties and the two other properties will not affect the large
unincorporated Meadow Glen area, which extends to the northeast from this location.
Meadow Glen property owners have been strongly opposed to annexation in the past and
have shown no interest in City services. Inclusion of an 80/20 annexation would do little
to reduce the larger unincorporated area to the northeast, as it would result in adding only
one or two additional acres or properties. As a result, staff does not see a need to
consider adding any non-consenting properties to this request.
With a 100% voluntary annexation more than two miles from Kelley, no review or action
by the City Development Board is required, if the City approves the annexation. The
proposed annexation plat is attached (See Attachment C).
The subject property at 2219 & 2121 State Avenue is designated as “University” in Ames
Plan 2040. The adjacent single-family properties are designated “RN-2” (See Attachment
B). Both areas are anticipated growth areas on the Ames Plan 2040 Future Land Use
Map. The Future Land Use Map guides decision making for zoning and is in and of itself
not considered a right to a specific zone or use. The annexation would be logical and
beneficial to the overall goals of the Ames Plan 2040 for the area and not just for
the convenience of one development project.
Water service is available along State Avenue and can easily serve the subject
property. Sanitary sewer is available along Worle Creek, about a quarter mile south
and would require extension of a main to the north by the property owner. ISU is
interested in annexation primarily in order to have Ames’ sanitary sewer service. ISU will
be responsible for the costs associated with extending sanitary sewer north to
serve their properties. Public Works staff reviewed the proposed sewer extension and
determined that at this time it was best to allow for ISU to extend the line to meet its needs
rather than try to plan for the construction of an oversized line that could one day be
extend to the west. Serving ISU property now does not preclude any future sanitary sewer
extensions.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Accept the Application for 100% Voluntary Annexation for the property at 2219 &
2121 State Avenue and direct staff to initiate the process of annexation for only
those properties. (Applicant’s Request)
2. Accept the Application for 100% Voluntary Annexation for the property at 2219 &
2121 State Avenue and direct staff to initiate the process of annexation for the
subject property, and direct staff to proceed with a separate annexation of the
properties at 2114 & 2126 State Avenue by requesting Annexation Applications
from those property owners in accordance with each property’s 2011 Covenant &
Agreement for Annexation.
3. Decline to initiate the requested annexation.
3
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Staff has reviewed the Annexation application for the ISU properties at 2219 & 2121 State
Avenue and has determined that the application is complete to begin the process of
annexation for this property. The annexation would be logical and beneficial to the overall
goals of the Ames Plan 2040 for the area and not just for the convenience of one
development project. The proposed annexation causes the City’s boundaries to align
optimally for more uniform boundaries than what currently exists in this area.
There are no surrounding non-consenting properties that are obvious candidates for
inclusion in the annexation. Furthermore, annexation can proceed independent of
any action on the two properties at 2114 & 2126 State Avenue that are each subject
to a Covenant & Agreement for Annexation. However, notification of these two
property owners of the City’s desire to annex would be appropriate at this time.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 2 as described above, which would allow for the ISU annexation to
proceed followed by a separate annexation of the two properties along the east
side of State Avenue.
4
Attachment A - Location Map
5
Attachment B -
Ames Plan 2040 Future Land Use Map (Excerpt)
Ames Plan 2040 Land Use
Designation of University.
2219 & 2121 State Avenue.
6
Attachment C - Annexation Plat
1
ITEM # ___27__
DATE: 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: TAX INCREMENT FINANCING REQUEST FOR SMALL LOT
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT SUBDIVISION LOCATED AT 2105 &
2421 DAYTON AVENUE
BACKGROUND:
In November 2021, the City Council directed staff to issue an RFP to solicit proposals for
a new small-lot industrial development subdivision that would utilize Tax Increment
Financing (TIF) to support the infrastructure construction.
The RFP included minimum requirements and identified issues that must be addressed
by the respondents, with final terms to be negotiated with any final development
agreement. Highlights of the City’s interests in the RFP included: the size and type of
subdivision, requirements to construct speculative buildings to expand economic
development opportunities within the city, total development costs, land valuation and
sale controls, and TIF duration not to exceed 10 years.
The deadline to submit a proposal was January 7, 2022. The City received only one
proposal from Chuck Winkleblack representing the property ownership group Dayton
Avenue Development LLC, for a 72.99 acre site along Dayton Avenue with approximately
50 acres being developable (Attachment A). Although the proposal did not match all
of the RFP’s initial parameters, at the January 11 meeting, Council directed staff to
continue negotiations with the developer and report back in March regarding
conditions for an agreement.
Since the January meeting staff has met with the developer multiple times to review the
proposed subdivision concept (Attachment B) and to negotiate terms for a development
agreement. The developer has made what he considers to be his final proposal for
the TIF subdivision. The basic terms that he is willing to accept for an agreement
are described below:
DEVELOPER OBLIGATIONS:
1. Subdivision and Platting:
a. Developer will be responsible for preparing all plans for the subdivision
and related improvements at its cost according to all City standards.
b. Developer will final plat the entire subdivision by July 1, 2023.
c. The subdivision will include at least 7 small lots (less than 3 acres)
2. Infrastructure:
2
a. Developer must construct all infrastructure within the subdivision and along
Dayton Avenue to City standards (The City will not construct any
infrastructure for the project)
b. Developer will be responsible for the extension of high-speed internet
infrastructure (e.g. fiber) to serve the lots within the subdivision.
3. Speculative Buildings:
a. Minimum speculative building size of 10,000 square feet.
b. Minimum speculative building shell valuation of $500,000.
c. Developer will construct an initial speculative building to a “shell condition”
completed by September 1, 2023.
d. Developer will construct subsequent speculative buildings within 18 months
after the occupancy or leasing of the previous speculative building.
e. Penalties for failure to construct speculative buildings in a timely manner
equal of $15,000 for the first building and $20,000 for any subsequent
building.
4. Development:
a. Prohibitions on primary uses within the subdivision for outdoor storage, mini-
storage, and salvage uses.
b. Design covenants will be required for all buildings.
5. Valuation and Taxes:
a. Minimum improvement value on each lot of $350,000 per acre (exclusive of
land value)
b. Allow for qualified uses to receive industrial tax abatement on lots over 5
acres
c. Limit agriculture classification of vacant lots to lots greater than 5 acres held
by the developer, all other lots or third parties may not apply for the
exemption.
d. Covenants designed to limit holding land for speculative purposes and
actively marketing land.
e. Developer will limit sale prices for all lots to a price ceiling of $2.50 per
square foot with a 5% allowance for an annual increase.
CITY TIF OBLIGATIONS:
In return for the Developer’s obligations, the City will provide a TIF incentive for project
as follows:
a. Establish an Urban Renewal Area (URA) to allow for Tax Increment
Financing (TIF)
b. Provide the developer with an annual economic grant in the form of a
Developer Rebate equal to the TIF generated within the URA equal to the
total cost of water, sewer, road and other public infrastructure. The rebate
will be based upon actual improvements that occur within the development.
c. The TIF rebate total will not to exceed $2.6 million, subject to staff verification
3
of actual costs of infrastructure. (NOTE: If the final costs are less, the amount
will be reduced; if costs are greater the developer would need to request the
City Council increase the TIF amount)
d. The TIF would last until 2035, or payments totaling $2.6 million, whichever
occurs first.
e. TIF reimbursement is subject to annual appropriation by City Council.
Additionally, a final agreement would use terminology and other terms from the Ames
Community Development Park 4th Addition that relate to the above obligations.
RFP AND NEGOTIATIONS:
The City’s RFP allowed for a development proposal to include either City constructed
public infrastructure financed with TIF or for a developer to construct infrastructure and
receive a TIF rebate. Staff supports the rebate option for this project to both meet the
developer’s desired timeline for the subdivision starting this summer and to alleviate staff
time for designing and bidding the project. The RFP identified a maximum TIF duration
of 10 years. As proposed, the length of TIF would be until 2035 to allow for up to 10
years of rebated payments to the developer.
The Developer reviewed a six-year land absorption projection with staff as the basis for
the 13-lot (7 small and 6 larger lots) project along with engineering estimates from Bolton
and Menk for the cost of development. The Developer believes he may have two users
for lots within the first year of the project to create a substantial increased valuation for
the TIF. With the Developer’s stated optimism and speculative building schedule of the
agreement, staff estimates the developer may reach the $2.6 million cap in 2033.
The subdivision would be required to meet all City subdivision standards and is also
subject to access improvements from Dayton Avenue into the site. Staff reviewed
construction estimates provided by the Developer’s engineer and concluded public
improvement costs would likely exceed $2.3 million for water, sewer, subdivision road
improvements, and Dayton Avenue turn lanes. These costs do not include subdivision
development costs borne by the Developer such as engineering, contingency, grading
and soil preparation.
The Developer articulated concerns about forecasting pricing in the current construction
environment and requested including contingency for the project. Staff supports
setting a cap on total TIF to account for appropriate levels of investment by the
City and to allow for contingency benefitting the Developer. If costs of the
specified infrastructure are less the $2.6 million, the City’s incentive will be capped
at the lower amount.
Beyond the cost of infrastructure and total value of TIF, there were a number of terms
included in the original RFP concerning development of a small lot industrial subdivision.
It should be pointed out that several of the proposed terms requested by the
Developer differ from the City’s position outlined in the original RFP pertaining to
speculative buildings, uses, and land valuations. A summary of key differences is
4
below:
Issue Developer’s
Position
RFP/City Position
Time to construct subsequent
spec shell buildings 18 months 12 months
Speculative building valuation
based on: Shell condition Final improved values
Warehouse/Low-Employee
Intensive Uses
Industrial Tax Abatement
Vacant land ag classification Allowed on larger lots valued as industrial
Staff relied on the prior Ames Community Development Park 4th Addition (South Bell) and
the Kingland Development agreement as models for terms of this agreement. Much of the
language of the City’s more recent TIF agreements would be included in the agreement.
Staff accepts a number of these adjustments to the RFP terms are in response to specific
developer interests, but generally accomplish the City’s intent as defined within the RFP.
A comparison table showing recent TIF agreements and this proposal is included in the
addendum to this report.
One of staff’s priorities in granting a TIF incentive is to have new development
added to the City’s tax base as soon as possible, which is a philosophy consistent
with other TIF agreements. However, in negotiations with the Developer it became
clear that some of the City priorities for ensuring minimum valuations and limiting
additional Industrial Tax Abatement were concerns to the developer affecting the
marketability of the project.
Previously, in TIF agreements with the Ames Community Development Park and ISU
Research Park, the City assumed the risk by paying for the subdivision infrastructure with
reimbursement coming from the TIF revenues as development occurred. In this case, the
Developer has proposed terms where they construct all improvements and receive
a TIF rebate for these expenses while taking the risk of seeing development happen
to generate the TIF. If the City agrees to the developer’s terms that include allowing
for industrial tax abatement and ag valuations, the maximum amount of TIF will not
change, but the length of time it takes to payback the TIF may be greater.
Negotiations for the project are complicated by the unknowns of the construction costs
and the Developer’s interest to move quickly with subdivision based upon potential users
for sites in the first year of the project. If the City Council determines the projected
expenses are too high or desires additional time to consider different terms for a
development agreement, the City Council could choose to ask the Developer to
divide the project into two phases and allow for the developer to move ahead with
an initial phase for the south 10-15 acres of the site and to focus on negotiations for
5
a future second phase with small lots located to the north. This approach would
allow the City and Developer time to measure the market interest in development
site. However, the Developer has indicated an interested in an agreement at this
time for the whole site.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. If the City Council believes the final terms proposed by the Developer are
satisfactory, then direct staff to finalize the proposed agreement consistent with
terms described above and return to City Council for final approval of a contract
in April.
2. If the City Council believes the final terms proposed by the Developer are
unsatisfactory and wants to seek changes, then direct staff to attempt to negotiate
modified terms into a final agreement and return to City Council for final approval
of a contract in April
3. If the City Council determines the projected expenses are too high or desires
additional time to consider the proposed terms of the Developer, then direct staff
to negotiate terms for an agreement for a second phase of development focused
on small lots in 2023 for the north 30-40 acres of the site.
4. If the City Council determines that the final terms proposed by the Developer
diverge too much from those that have been successful included in other TIF
agreements, then reject proposal and discontinue the process for a small lot
industrial subdivision with City incentives.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The City initiated the RFP process in support of expanding small industrial development
opportunities and development of speculative buildings through the use of city incentives.
The Developer’s proposed 13-lot concept is consistent with these objectives in
combination with the proposed speculative building plans.
The proposed $2.6 million amount of the TIF rebate through 2035 is seen as achievable
by City staff based upon the Developer’s projections. The amount is capped overall and
will require the developer to provide verified costs related to the specified infrastructure.
If the costs are substantially more than $2.6 million the developer and City would need to
reevaluate the desirability of this project.
The Developer’s proposal does depart from specific terms recommended by the Staff in
previous TIF agreements. This approach The developer states the proposal is their final
proposal in order to move ahead with the agreement and meet their development goals
of starting the project this summer.
While the Developer’s final terms articulated during the negotiations depart
substantially from previous TIF agreements and Staff recommendations, they do
6
flip the risk from the City to the Developer, who will upfront all of the infrastructure
costs in the hope that incremental tax receipts through 2035 will reimburse their
costs. In addition, this reimbursement approach to pay for the infrastructure costs
will not count towards our debt capacity. Furthermore, while allowing the
availability of Industrial Tax Abatement for the large lots will elongate the TIF
payback, it will not change the total amount of the TIF incentive that is being
offered.
Therefore, assuming the City Council still believes in the need for small industrial
lots and is willing to provide a TIF incentive to one developer to accomplish this
objective, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative #1.
7
Addendum
As stated above the proposal closely follows the manner in which previous TIF
agreements in other areas of the City have been structured with similar provisions.
Below is a chart illustrating key components of similar agreements in comparison to this
proposal. The chart compares this proposal with that of the 2009 Bell Avenue Ames
Community Development Park 4th Addition TIF Agreement where the City installed the
infrastructure reimbursed with TIF proceeds and the 2013 Kingland Systems
Development Agreement in Campustown where the TIF proceeds were rebated to the
property owner to pay for the projected financing gap of the project.
Terms Dayton Avenue
Industrial Development Park
4th Addition
Agreement
13 Lots total, 7 small
lots
14 lots total, 10
small lots
NA (Site Size
1.4 Acres)
Developer rebate up
to $2.6 million,
subject to verification
of up to $875,000 Owner rebate
of $2,064,530
TIF Duration
dollar cap cap (not yet up to dollar cap
Spec Bldg.
Value (Shell)
Spec Bldg. Minimum
Value $500K Value $350K
Spec
Building Size
Minimum 10,000 sq.
ft. in size ft. in size 3-story building
minimum of
22,596 sq. ft. of
leasable retail
Speculative
Building
Timeline
1st building by Sept.
2023. Subsequent
buildings within 18
months of lease,
sale, or occupancy of
months. Subsequent
buildings within 18
months of lease,
sale, or occupancy
Penalties/
Security
No security on Spec
Bldg. Penalty for
failure to complete on
time of $15k and
$20k
$350K at beginning
of agreement.
Additional $350K
per failure to
construct. Note not
None
8
Ag
Classification
Ag Classification on
large lots allowed,
unless sold to third
Allowed
Industrial Tax
Abatement
Industrial Tax
Abatement on lots
over 5 acres.
Abatement Allowed. Abatement of
any type
Land Price
Ceiling
Sale price cap at
$2.50 per sq. ft.
($108,900/ac) with
allowed increase of
5% per acre every
July 1st.
on all lots of $55K
per acre with
increase of 5% per
acre every starting
July 1, 2011.
Allowable cost 2009
to 2022 will be
NA
Minimum
Improvement
Value
to $350K or more per
acre of the individual
to $266K or more on
lots over 1.5 acres in
assessment of
$8,840,545
Use
Limitations
Prohibit principal
uses of storage,
outdoor, mini-storage
and salvage
storage, trailers,
mobile homes
specified list of
uses, required
office, retail,
rest.,
Design
building materials,
60% corrugated
metal, increased
approved Site
and Building
Concept
9
Attachment A-Location Map
Attachment B-Subdivision Concept
10
1
ITEM # __28 __
DATE: 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: 2022-23 PROPOSED ANNUAL ACTION PLAN PROJECTS FOR
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) AND HOME
PROGRAMS
BACKGROUND:
As part of the City’s approved 2019-23 Five-Year Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG) and HOME Consolidated Plan, the City must submit an Annual Action Plan that
outlines the proposed activities and budget to be implemented in the upcoming year.
Those activities should be consistent with the goals and priorities identified in the
Consolidated Plan. The goals and priorities the City identified in its 2019-23 Consolidated
Plan are outlined in Attachment 1 along with the housing barriers that were identified in
the 2019 Fair Housing Impediments Study.
The activities identified in the Annual Action Plan should address the housing and
community development needs of low- and moderate-income persons as well as the
housing and community development needs of non- low- and moderate-income persons
in the community. The Annual Action Plan can address one or all of the goals and
priorities of the housing and community development needs identified in the Consolidated
Plan.
HUD regulations require that the Annual Action Plan be submitted for approval within 45
days before the beginning of the program fiscal year (i.e., by May 17, 2022). It also
requires that the Plan be published for 30 days to allow for citizen input on the proposed
project(s) for the utilization of the funds.
Although the President signed the 2022 omnibus appropriations bill on March 15,
the 2022 CDBG and HOME funding allocations for entitlement cities has not yet
been announced. Nevertheless, it is time to begin the process for determining the
2022-23 Annual Action Plan Projects in order to be prepared to meet the federal
timelines.
As in the past, staff has provided the City Council with proposed plan priorities and
potential projects prior to conducting forums for public input. With City Council
concurrence on the proposed projects, staff will continue with drafting the plan and
completing public outreach before returning to City Council for final approval.
Prior to proposing activities for the Annual Action Plan, staff reviews the following HUD
guidelines that outline key steps:
• Determine if the proposed activity is included in the listing of eligible activities
• Determine if the proposed activity meets the City’s Consolidated Plan priority goals
for addressing the needs of low- and moderate-income persons within the
community
• Determine if the proposed activity can meet one or more National Objectives
• Ensure that carrying out the activity will meet HUD’s requirement that 70% of the
grantee’s CDBG expenditures, over a three-year period, will be on activities that
benefit low- and moderate-income persons
• Meet the performance measurement requirements
Staff proposes the following programs for consideration for the 2022-2023 Annual Action
Plan (see Attachment 2 for itemized budget) to continue to address the needs outlined in
the Consolidated Plan data:
1. Utilize CDBG funds to provide down payment and closing cost assistance to
eligible first-time homebuyers in the Baker Subdivision.
2. Utilize CDBG funds to provide rehabilitation assistance for single-family
homeowners.
3. Utilize HOME funds to provide gap financing to the construction of Low Income
Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) multi-family units in the Baker Subdivision.
4. Utilize CDBG funds to acquire and demolish deteriorated residential and/or
commercial properties city-wide and resell the property for redevelopment. (Up to
30% of this annual allocation can be used for non-low- and moderate-income
benefit directed toward removing slum and blight.)
Staff believes that focusing on these four programs for the 2022-23 will help make an
impact on the need outlined within the Consolidated Plan, while accomplishing program
projects that have been adopted in the previous action plans that have not been
completed. It is important to remember that with both CDBG and HOME funds the City
Council can modify programming each year to accomplish housing needs in the
community after new publication notices.
Staff’s rationale for recommending to continue these project activities for 2022-23 is as
follows:
• The project activities are consistent with the current adopted 2019-23 Five-Year
Consolidated Plan goals. Along with the two barriers that were outlined in the
2019 Impediments to Fair Housing Analysis Study (see Attachment 1).
Additionally, the data outlined in the Comprehensive Housing Affordability
Strategy (CHAS), and the American Community Survey (ACS) information for
the City of Ames is consistent with the needs outlined above.
• The proposed projects are consistent with long term CDBG City Council goals
and priorities to focus on neighborhood sustainability by improving and
expanding the housing stock for in low- and moderate-income households
and in our vital core neighborhoods.
• The proposed implementation sequence for the project activities should help meet
HUD’s timely expenditure requirements.
• Over 90% of the activities proposed would be of 100% benefit to low- and
moderate-income persons.
Because the City has not been notified of the amounts that will be allocated for
2022-23 program year, we have been advised to project the current 2021-22 CDBG
allocation of $599,177 and HOME allocation of $350,543 for budgeting for the
purposed 2022-23 Action Plan projects.
For CDBG, of the $599,177 new allocation, approximately $479,341 is available for
programming after accounting for 20% of funding for administration. This new allocation
assumption does not include any 2021-22 anticipated program roll-over funds or program
income. Staff is cautiously anticipating a rollover balance of approximately $600,000, and
program income of $50,938. Total projected revenue for the upcoming 2022/23 would be
of $1,250,115.
For HOME, of the $350,543 new allocation, approximately $262,908 is available for
programming after excluding the 15% CHDO set aside of $52,581 and $35,054 for
administration. Staff under this program is anticipating a rollover balance of approximately
$1,681,068 remaining from program years 2018-19, 2019-20, 2020-21, and 2021-22. Total
projected revenue for the upcoming 2022/23 would be $1,979,030 (including
administration, but less the CHDO set aside).
Staff is recommending that the anticipated CDBG budget of $1,130,279 (less
administration) be allocated to the project activities outlined in Attachment 2. The need to
expand and maintain the supply of affordable housing for low- and moderate-income
households can best be accomplished through the implementation of the Homebuyer
Assistance Program, Homebuyer Housing Improvement Programs. These program
amounts represent about 64% of the total funding directly toward housing related
programs.
Staff is recommending that the anticipated HOME budget of $1,801,222 (less
administration and CHDO set aside) be allocated to the project activities outlined in
Attachment 2. The need to expand and maintain the supply of affordable rental housing
for low- and moderate-income households can best be accomplished through providing
gap financing for a potential Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) project.
This gap financing priority is consistent with the City Council’s direction from March 8 to
continue to work with Prairie Fire on the details of a modified multi-family affordable
housing project within the Baker Subdivision with a maximum level of assistance of
$2,000,000. The developer has been working with staff, but a final proposal for the site
is not yet available. Staff anticipates returning to City Council with an update from Prairie
Fire in April, well before we finalize the final Annual Action Plan.
Once City Council provides direction for the proposed 2022-23 Annual Action Plan
projects, staff will proceed with hosting public forums for citizen input and feedback.
Public feedback will be shared with City Council for final project selections in order
to proceed with preparing the 2022-23 Annual Action Plan for the 30-day public
comment period, once the 2022-23 allocations are announced. Also, due to the late
announcement of allocations, staff anticipates requesting a submittal extension to
August 16, 2022, from HUD.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the proposed 2022-23 Annual Action Plan Program Projects and
proposed budget in connection with the City’s Community Development Block
Grant Program descried in Attachment 2 and direct staff to host public forums for
citizen input and feedback.
2. Approve modified 2022-23 Annual Action Plan Program Projects and budget in
connection with the City’s Community Development Block Grant Program, and
direct staff to host public forums for citizen input and feedback.
3. Refer this item back to staff with further direction.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
With the federal budget just recently approved, staff needed to begin the process of
soliciting public feedback for proposed Action Plan projects even though the 2022-23
CDBG/HOME Allocations have not yet been announced. Outlining draft projects while
utilizing the 2021-22 allocation amounts for budgeting projections helps in determining
the most needed projects in conjunction with the 2019-23 Consolidated Plan and the City
Council’s priorities.
It should be noted that the proposed 2022-23 Annual Action Plan does not include the
additional HOME American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding of $1,269,248. This money is
subject to an amendment to the current Annual Action Plan and will be in addition to the
resources outlined within Attachment 2.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative #1, as stated above.
ATTACHMENT 1
2019-23 Five-Year Consolidated Plan Goal and Priorities
Utilize and leverage CDBG and HOME Funds through “private, non-profit
and public” partnerships to:
1. To create and expand affordable housing for low-income households through:
• Increase supply of single family or two-family housing for ownership in the
Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy Area (NRSA);
• Reduce the cost burden for low-income households to access or maintain
rental housing citywide; and
• Increase the affordability and availability of owner housing for homebuyers
citywide
2019-20 Fair Housing Impediments Study Barriers and Needs
1. The supply of housing for lower income households for renting; and
2. The cost of housing for lower income households for both renting and
home buying.
The major difference from the 2014-19 data, is that the cost of housing
is now #1 and the availability is of housing is now #2.
6
ATTACHMENT 2
2022-23 DRAFT Proposed CDBG/HOME Annual Action Plan
Projects and Budget
*City Council should note that the anticipated revenue for the CDBG program
rollover and the anticipated program income are cautious estimates being
projected by staff. These projections will be adjusted when the 2022-23 allocations
are announced.
DRAFT PROPOSED 2022-23 Action Plan Expenditure Budget:
Programs Budget
CDBG Homebuyer Assistance Program (Down payment and Closing Cost) $500,000
Housing Improvement Rehabilitation Program for
Single-family Homeowners $225,000
Acquisition/Slum and Blight Removal Program $275,279
$85,000
HOME Multi-Family LIHTC Assistance New Construction $1,801,222
General Administration for CDBG, HOME & CARES HOME: $177,808
Total
$3,382,427*
2022-23 Anticipated CDBG Allocation $599,177
2021-22 Anticipated CDBG Program Rollover $600,000
2021-22 Anticipated CDBG Anticipated Program Income $50,938
2021-22 Anticicpated CDBG-CV CARES Rollover $153,282
2022-23 Anticipated HOME Allocation $350,543
2020-21 Anticipated HOME Program Rollover (Admn & Programming) $1,681,068
2022-23 Minus Anticipated CHDO Set Aside - $52,581
1
ITEM#: 29
DATE: 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: SALE OF AIRPORT PROPERTY TO MULMAC LLC (FOR SIGLER,
AMES)
BACKGROUND:
On January 14, 2020, City Council approved the sale of 1101 Aviation Way to Mulmac
LLC, the current land lessee for that property. The operating business on the property is
Sigler Companies. The agreed upon price includes the present value of the lease rights
through June 30, 2047, the value of the land, and the improvements made on the property
per the developer’s agreement. The total sale price for this property is $2,838,250. The
staff report detailing how this price was established has been attached for reference
(Attachment 1).
Staff has verified that this land was not acquired with federal funds., Therefore, the City
is not required to follow the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) process for the sale of
this land.
The subdivision creating and preparing the lot for sale and establishing new street right-
of-way for Aviation Way was approved by City Council on September 14, 2021. A public
hearing regarding the sale was held on March 8, 2022. The sale closing date has been
set for April 1, 2022. An agreement to sell the property has been signed by Mulmac
(Attachment 2).
Land leases are a critical revenue generating activity for the Airport. To ensure the
solvency of the Airport’s operating budget after this sale, staff will invest the
proceeds from the sale and transfer an annual amount equal to the lease payment
schedule (Attachment 3) as operating revenue for the airport. This will make sure
the current revenue structure of the Airport is maintained into the future.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the sale of Airport property at 1101 Aviation Way to Mulmac LLC with a
closing date of April 1, 2022.
2. Direct staff to make modifications to this timeline.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Selling the property at 1101 Aviation Way to Mulmac, LLC (Sigler) will ensure the ongoing
revenues for Airport Operations. It will also eliminate the Airport’s future responsibility in
2
2047 to take over the Sigler industrial building, which at that point would be 50 years old.
That is an activity/property that the Airport is not well-positioned to market or maintain.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as noted above.
ITEM #: 47
DATE: 01/14/20
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: REQUEST FROM SIGLER COMPANIES TO PURCHASE AIRPORT
PROPERTY AND BUY OUT REMAINDER OF LEASE/DEVELOPER
AGREEMENT FOR 3100 S. RIVERSIDE DRIVE
BACKGROUND:
On September 20, 2019, Chris Eggert, representing the Sigler Companies, wrote a letter
to the Mayor and City Council requesting to buy out the remainder of their lease, purchase
the land at 3100 S. Riverside Drive from the Airport, and amend the development
agreement for the property that states that the buildings and all improvements on the
property revert to City ownership at the conclusion of the lease on June 30, 2047. The
letter is attached.
The Airport property being leased by Sigler is at 3100 S. Riverside Drive (see attached
map) and was originally created as part of a Development Agreement with Vantage
Enterprises, LLC, in May of 1997. The agreement had a 50-year lease term beginning on
May 27, 1997, which was sublet to VisionAire to build single-engine jet aircraft. Since that
time, the lease has changed ownership two times from Vantage Enterprises, LLC to
Dayton Park, LLC, in September of 2004 who sublet the building to Clarion Technologies.
Finally, it was sold to Mulmac, LLC in April of 2007. Mulmac, LLC, is leasing the space to
Sigler Companies, Inc.
FAA REQUIREMENTS:
When an Airport is considering the sale of high-value property, defined as $1,000,000 or
higher, the FAA requires a minimum of two (2) appraisals by certified land appraisal
companies and an independent third-party review of the two appraisals. The Airport
owner must use the higher valuation of the two as a starting point for the negotiation of
the sale. Generally, it is the Airport’s responsibility to justify to FAA that the release of
Airport property (a one-time cash sale) is more beneficial than the long-term revenue-
generating potential of keeping it as part of the Airport. Therefore, before the purchase
can be approved, staff will need to provide the justification to the FAA for its
approval.
AIRPORT LAND APPRAISALS:
The City solicited quotes from multiple land appraisals firms in Iowa that meet FAA’s
standards. On November 30, 2018, the first appraisal was completed by Nelsen Appraisal
Associates (NAA), Inc. of Urbandale, Iowa. On March 15, 2019, the second appraisal was
completed by Commercial Appraisers of Iowa (CAI), Inc. of West Des Moines, Iowa. It
should be noted before the final purchase agreement can be approved, a third-
party appraisal review must be performed.
Below is a summary of the two appraisals:
Property Value (Land, Buildings,
and Improvements)
Commercial
Appraisals of Iowa
Nelsen Appraisal
Associates
Property Value (Land Only)
The table above shows that the CAI appraisal is the higher of the two evaluations
and must be used as the basis for the price negotiation per FAA regulations. FAA
will require that the property be sold for no less than highest present value of the
two appraisals, which is currently estimated to be $1,420,000.
CITY VALUATION OF THE SALE:
For the City to be made whole by a potential sale of the leased property at 3100 S.
Riverside Drive there are three considerations; 1) the value of the lease and payments to
the Airport operating fund, 2) the value of the land, and 3) the value of the improvements
made on the land (two buildings and pavement) as part of development agreement.
Value of Lease:
The buy out of the lease in the appraisal (using CAI’s numbers) assumes a private sector
discount rate of 7.25%. However, the City, as a public agency, cannot reinvest the money
at that rate. Finance staff indicated that potential interest rates could be invested at
approximately 2.28%.
A more appropriate method would be to look at the present value of the lease payments
using the 2.28% rate, which is shown in the table below:
Rent Per Number Total PV of
Year Acre of Acres Rent PV Factor Cash Flow
FY 2034 $6,750 12.75 $86,063 72.9% $62,769
FY 2035 $6,953 12.75 $88,651 71.3% $63,215
FY 2036 $7,161 12.75 $91,303 69.7% $63,655
FY 2037 $7,376 12.75 $94,044 68.2% $64,105
FY 2038 $7,597 12.75 $96,862 66.6% $64,554
FY 2039 $7,825 12.75 $99,769 65.2% $65,009
FY 2040 $8,060 12.75 $102,765 63.7% $65,468
FY 2041 $8,302 12.75 $105,851 62.3% $65,931
FY 2042 $8,551 12.75 $109,025 60.9% $66,394
FY 2043 $8,808 12.75 $112,302 59.5% $66,865
FY 2044 $9,072 12.75 $115,668 58.2% $67,334
FY 2045 $9,344 12.75 $119,136 56.9% $67,807
FY 2046 $9,624 12.75 $122,706 55.6% $68,282
FY 2047 $9,913 12.75 $126,391 54.4% $68,765
*Partial Year $2,414,300 PV Lease= $1,725,802
Value of Land:
Staff agrees with the CAI appraisal of the land at $1 million dollars as shown below:
Property Value (Land Only) CAI Appraisal
Value of Buildings & Improvements:
As stated in the Background section of this report, the buildings (improvements) are set
to revert to City (Airport) ownership at the end of the lease term on June 30, 2047.
Agreements such as the one that was created with Vantage Enterprise, LLC (VisionAire)
are common for Airports. This provision was included in the 1997 agreement because the
FAA prohibits general private development on Airport property unless, at some point, it
becomes a permanent part of the Airport itself or the Airport is compensated for the use
of its property.
However, staff would consider it a liability for the Airport if the City would have to take
back ownership of the manufacturing/warehouse building (101,447 SF). This structure
was designed for manufacturing purposes and not for Airport hangar storage; therefore,
it is unlikely the City could get a positive net operating revenue from that building without
finding another manufacturing tenant to lease the property. Therefore, the City would
consider the warehouse building to have zero value, if not negative, due to the high-
risk of potential maintenance and utility costs of a building that size.
However, the 15,120 SF airplane hangar building (Sigler is currently using the
building for storage) does have long-term value to the Airport. The CAI appraisals
show that the current depreciated value of the hangar to be $112,448, and the full
replacement value (new) is $675,000.
To summarize, the City will need to consider the sale of the property and lease buy out,
while ensuring that the Airport can justify to the FAA that the sale is more beneficial than
retaining the revenue-generating property in perpetuity. To do this, the estimated Fair
Market Value from the appraisals should be reconciled with the City’s actual potential for
long-term use and re-investment strategy. A summary of potential purchase price
calculations is provided below:
Lease Buy Out $1,725,802 $1,725,802
Land Value $1,000,000 $1,000,000
Buildings $112,448 $675,000
$2,838,250 $3,400,802
Under Option 1, using a conservative cash flow estimate, the City could reinvest
the total estimated payment amount of $2,838,250 and then pay the Airport
operating budget an annual amount equal to the remaining lease payment
schedule. At the end of the current lease term on June 30, 2047, it is estimated that
there will be a significant amount of the original principle remaining. Staff believes
Option 2 is not appropriate since it effectively requires Sigler to pay full new replacement
value for a 20 year old hangar building.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Agree that the City is willing to sell the land and buildings (includes the
deprecated value of a new 15,000 SF hangar) to Mulmac, LLC, for $2,838,250
and direct staff to work with City Attorney to:
a. Draft an amendment to the development agreement.
b. Draft an amendment to the land lease (setting an end date).
c. Draft an agreement to purchase the property.
d. Conduct the third party review of the two appraisals.
e. Work with the FAA to obtain approval of the sale.
2. Agree that the City is willing to sell the land and buildings (includes the full value
of a new 15,000 SF hangar) to Mulmac, LLC, for $3,400,802 and direct staff to
work with City Attorney to:
a. Draft an amendment to the development agreement.
b. Draft an amendment to the land lease (setting an end date).
c. Draft an agreement to purchase the property.
d. Conduct the third party review of the two appraisals.
e. Work with the FAA to obtain approval of the sale.
3. Reject the request to buy Airport property, thereby directing staff to maintain the
current lease and development agreement.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The leased property on the Airport at 3100 S. Riverside was created over 23 years ago
under significantly different financial conditions than what the Airport (and the market) is
facing today. The two buildings on the property were originally constructed for the
manufacturing a single engineer jet and were not designed to serve Airport users, which
is the primary purpose of the Airport itself.
There appears to be several benefits from selling the property that will result in a “win/win”
situation for the City and Sigler Companies.
Risk Avoidance
The current agreement designates that the City will have ownership of the
buildings once the lease terminates. If vacant, the City would be at risk to find a
new tenant who would be willing to pay the projected lease payment along with the
property taxes. By selling the building to the Sigler Companies, the City would
avoid a future economic risk.
Operational Revenue
The annual lease payments are currently transferred to the Airport operating
budget to help reduce any property tax support for this facility. With the sale that
is being proposed, the proceeds can be deposited in a reserve account and annual
payments that are equivalent to the current lease schedule can be made to the
Airport operating budget. In this way the revenue stream can be maintained.
Compatibility With Airport Operations
An advantage to owning the property and improvements is the fact that the City
can assure that the use does not interfere with the operations of the Airport. This
protection can still be achieved with the requirement that an Avigation Easement
be place on the property.
In addition, it is important to note that the Airport Master Plan has historically shown
the lease parcel at 3100 S. Riverside Drive as being a “non-aeronautical use,”
meaning it is not needed for the service or operation of aircraft. Therefore, it should
not have any negative impacts to the Airport by selling the property.
Property Taxes
Currently, the City receives tax revenue from the tenant. If the City takes
ownership of the property and cannot rent the facilities, no tax revenue would be
received. In addition, purchasing the property may facilitate future expansion of
Sigler’s operations at this site, resulting in an incremental increase in tax revenue.
Sigler has indicated to staff that they support the approach and dollar amount
described in Alternative 1. At this time, staff cannot identify all the legal or
regulatory steps that might ultimately be needed to complete this transaction.
Therefore, the City Manager recommends that the City Council adopt Alternative
No. 1, directing staff to move forward with an approved conceptual approach to the
sale for $2,838,250, and work with the City Attorney and the FAA to complete all
necessary documents before bringing back this issue for final City Council
approval.
EXH.T C -RENT SCHEDUL.
(50 Years: July 1, 1997 through June 30, 2047)
7/1/24 -6/30/25 $5,173
7/1/25-6/30/26 $5,329
711126-6/30127 $5,489 t· ,
7/1197-6/30/98 $100
711/98 -6/30/99 $100
7 I 1/2 7 -6/30128 $5,653
711/99 -6/30/00 $100-
7/1/28-6/30/29 $5,823
711100-6/30/01 $100
711/29-6130/30 $5,997
711/01-6/30/02 $100
7/1/30-6/30/31 $6,177
7/1/02-6/30/03 $2,700
711/31-6/30/32 $6,363
7/1/03 -6/30/04 $2,781
711/32-6/30/33 $6,554
711/04-6/30/05 $2,864
7 I l/33 -6/30/34 $6,750
7/l/05-6/30/06 $2,950
7/l/34-6/30/35 $6,953
7/l/06-6/30/07 $3,039
7/1/35-6130/36 $7,161
7/l/07-6/30/08 $3,130
7/1/3 6 -6/3 0/3 7 $7,376
7/1/08-6/30/09 $3,224
7/l/37-6/30/38 1--$7,597
7/l/09-6/30/10 $3,321
7/1/38-6/30/39 $7,825
7/l/10-6/30/11 $3,420
7/l/39-6/30/40 $8,060
7/1/ll -6/30/12 $3,523
7/l/40-6/30/41 $8,302
7/1/12-6/30/13 $3,629
7/l/41-6/30/42 $8,55 1
7/l/13-6/30/14 $3,737
7/1/42-6130/43 $8,808
7/1/14-6/30/15 $3,850
7/l/43 -6/30/44 $9,072
7 Ill 15 -6/30/16 $3,965
7/1144-6/30/45 $9,344
7/1/16-6/30/17 $4,084
7/1/45 -6130/46 $9,624
7/l/17-6/30/18 $4,207
7/1/46-6/30/47 $9,913
7 I 1118 -6/3 0/19 $4,333
7 /l/19 -6/30/20 $4,463
7/1/20-6/30/21 $4,597
7 I 1/21 -6/30/22 $4,734
7/1/22-6/30/23 $4,877
7/l/23-6/30/24 $5,023
1
ITEM # __30___
DATE: 03/22/22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: VACATE EASEMENTS AT 1915 PHILADELPHIA STREET
BACKGROUND:
The property located at 1915 Philadelphia Street is owned by Childserve. The owner
proposes to expand the existing Childserve building with the purpose of increasing the
available services provided to the community. A public utility easement (PUE) and water
main easement exist in the area where the building expansion is proposed. The building
expansion cannot occur unless the PUE and water main easement are vacated as shown
on Attachment 1 & 1A.
The easements were first established as part of the approval of the Final Plat for Walter
Family Campus Subdivision (Attachment 2). The purpose of the easement was to provide
access for public utilities to serve the lot on which the current Childserve building is
located (Lot 5), the lot to the west (Lot 6), and to provide a location for future water main
extension to the parcel to the north. The Water Main Easement has not been utilized
since it was first established by the Final Plat. On March 16, 2007, Lots 5 & 6 were
combined to form Parcel B. The water main easement was not vacated at that time
because a large building addition was not contemplated (see Attachment 3).
There is an electric service currently located in the PUE. This electric service will be
relocated as part of the building expansion project, and a new easement will be created
over the relocated service.
The property located north of the existing Childserve property is not within the Ames
corporate limits. If that property was annexed and developed in the future, water main
could be extended from other easements located at the east edge of the existing
Childserve property and the west end of Philadelphia Street.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve Resolution vacating the existing fifteen feet (15’) public utility easement
(PUE) & Water main easement at 1915 Philadelphia Street, located in parcel B,
Lots 5 & 6, Walter Family Campus subdivision, Ames, Iowa.
2. Do not approve the vacation of these easements at 1915 Philadelphia Street.
3. Refer this item back to City staff for additional information.
2
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
These easements do not facilitate water or other utility service to properties, with the
exception of the electric service to the Childserve building. That service will be relocated
into a new easement at the time the expansion project takes place. Vacating the
easements will allow Childserve to complete a building expansion, which will enable
Childserve to provide additional services to the Ames community.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
ITEM#: 31
DATE: 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: CYRIDE BATTERY ELECTRIC BUS FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS
PROJECT – REPORT OF BIDS
BACKGROUND:
Plans and specifications for the CyRide Battery Electric Bus Facility Improvements project
were approved by Council at the meeting on February 8, 2022. The project was
subsequently released on February 9, 2022.
Plans and specifications called for installing a concrete pad for a 480-volt transformer,
new facility switchgear with an associated platform, a charger platform, and installation of
the purchased charging equipment. Alternate #1 called for extending the charger platform
to accommodate two additional future chargers. Funding for the project is available from
a combination of federal and local funds totaling $298,161.
On March 9, 2022, bids for this project were received as follows:
Bidder Base Bid Alternate #1
The City’s Purchasing Policies and Procedures requires the reporting of bids at the
next possible City Council meeting. However, since the Transit Board has not yet
met to consider approval of a contract award, this action form is only for the report
of bids. The decision to approve the project or reject all bids will be brought back to
Council after the next planned Transit Board meeting.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Accept the report of bids for the CyRide Battery Electric Bus Facility Improvements
Project and delay award to allow for Transit Board approval.
2. Direct staff to make changes to this project.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The City Purchasing Policies and Procedures requires that bid results be reported to
Council at its next meeting. Prior to Council’s approval, this project needs approval from
the Transit Board.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as noted above.
1
ITEM#: 32
DATE: 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: 2021/22 ARTERIAL STREET PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS (NORTH
DAKOTA AVENUE AND ONTARIO STREET)
BACKGROUND:
This annual program utilizes current repair and reconstruction techniques to improve
concrete streets with asphalt or concrete to restore structural integrity, serviceability, and
rideability. By improving these streets prior to excessive problems, the service life will be
extended.
On March 15, 2022, bids for the project were received through the Iowa Department of
Transportation (DOT) as follows:
Bidder Bid Amount
Engineer’s Estimate $1,362,000.00
Con-Struct, Inc. $1,430,118.60
Cole Excavating, LLC $1,686,996.00
Absolute Concrete Construction, Inc. $2,026,679.75
A summary of revenues and projected expenses is shown below.
Funding Source Revenue Expenses
Construction (this contract) 1,430,118.60
TOTAL $1,700,000 $1,645,118.60
2
ALTERNATIVES:
1. a. Accept the report of bids for the 2021/22 Arterial Street Pavement
Improvements (North Dakota Ave and Ontario St) project.
b. Approve the final plans and specifications for this project.
c. Award the 2021/22 Arterial Street Pavement Improvements project to Con-
Struct Inc. of Ames, Iowa, in the amount of $1,430,118.60, contingent upon
receipt of Iowa DOT Concurrence.
2. Do not approve this project.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Awarding this project will allow the contractor to start construction of North Dakota Avenue
and Ontario Street project by the late start date of June 6, 2022, with project completion
by Fall 2022. Delay or rejection of bids will delay this project, and possibly jeopardize the
funding. While the low bid is only slightly over the estimate, the projected expenses are
well within the budget.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
ITEM # 33
DATE: 03-22-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: 2021/22 COLLECTOR STREET PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS
(HOOVER AVE)
BACKGROUND:
This annual program utilizes current repair and reconstruction techniques to make
pavement improvements to streets that are chosen in accordance with the most current
street condition inventory. Improving these streets will reduce maintenance needs for
them. The location for this project is Hoover Ave from 24th Street to Top O Hallow
Road.
Staff held a public meeting to obtain input regarding staging, construction timing, and
special access needs. Comments were received concerning access needs and drainage
and were incorporated into the final project design. All streets in the project limits have
existing sidewalk on both side of the street.
On March 16, 2022, bids for the project were received as follows:
Engineer’s Estimate $2,049,738.08
Manatt’s $2,185,487.58
Revenue and expenses associated with this program are estimated as follows:
2021/22 Collector Street Pavement Improvements $ 2,400,000.00
2021/22 Stormwater Improvement Program 100,000.00
Engineering and Admin 300,000.00
2
ALTERNATIVES:
1. a. Accept the report of bids for the 2021/22 Collector Street Pavement
Improvements (Hoover Ave)
b. Approve the final plans and specifications for this project.
c. Award the 2021/22 Collector Street Pavement (Hoover Ave) project to
Manatt’s Inc,of Ames, Iowa, in the amount of $2,185.487.58
2. Do not proceed with this project.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Accepting the report of bids and awarding a contract will allow this project to proceed,
improving street conditions and lowering maintenance costs. While the low bid is only
slightly over the estimate, the projected expenses are within the budget.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.