HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - October 11, 2022, Regular Meeting of the Ames City CouncilAGENDA
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
COUNCIL CHAMBERS – CITY HALL
OCTOBER 11, 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.
CALL TO ORDER: 6:00 p.m.
PROCLAMATIONS:
1. Proclamation for “Fire Prevention Week – October 9-15, 2022
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.
2. Motion approving payment of claims and revenues
3. Motion approving Minutes of Regular Meeting on September 27, 2022
4. Motion approving Report of Change order for period September 16-30, 2022
5. Motion approving new 5-Day (November 3-7, 2022) Class C Liquor License – Christiani’s
Events, L.L. C., 2601 East 13th Street, Pending Dram Shop Insurance
6. Motion approving new 5-Day (October 20-24, 2022) Special Class C Liquor License – The
Ames Foundation, 123 Airport Road
7. Motion approving new 5-Day (November 5-9, 2022) Class C Liquor License – Gateway Hotel
& Conference Center, 1800 Christensen Drive, Pending Dram Shop Insurance
8. Motion approving the renewal of the following Beer Permits, Wine Permits and Liquor
Licenses
a. Class E Liquor License with Sunday Sales – Target Store T-1170, 320 S. Duff Avenue
9. Resolution approving the Sponsored Research Agreement between Iowa State University and
the City of Ames, Amendment #1 Revised, in the amount of $29,232
10. Resolution authorizing staff to sign a Memorandum of Agreement with the Iowa Department
of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and accept a sub-award in partnership
with Iowa State University Environmental Health and Safety for the purchase of radiological
testing equipment and training
11. Resolution approving Change Order No. 1 to Metro Waste Authority, Des Moines, Iowa, in
the amount of $145,000 for tipping fees for ash disposal for Power Plant
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12. Resolution approving Change Order No. 2 to Black & Veatch Corporation, Overland Park,
Kansas, in the amount not-to-exceed $46,200 for additional Engineering Services for Unit 8
Precipitator Insulation & Lagging
13. Resolution approving Change Order No. 9 to SCS Engineers of Clive, Iowa in the amount of
$63,720 to provide engineering and related services necessary to comply with U.S. EPA’s
CCR regulation’s annual and periodic five-year requirements pertaining to the City of Ames
Steam Electric Plant’s ash site
14. Resolution awarding contract to Rural Electric Supply (RESCO) of Ankeny, Iowa, for the
one-time purchase of Electric Services Transformers based on unit prices and quantities
ordered in the amount of $133,097.09 inclusive of applicable sales taxes
15. Computerized Maintenance Management Software
a. Motion waiving Purchasing Policies and Procedures requirement for competitive bids
b. Resolution awarding 3-Year contract to Limble Solutions, LLC, Lehi, Utah in the amount
of $88,200
16. Resolution awarding contact to Sunbelt Rentals, Inc., Bloomfield, Colorado, for GT1
Blackstart Load Bank Testing Project in the amount of $76,911.87
17. Resolution awarding contract to Motion Industries, Ankeny, Iowa, for Tapered Bushing
Reducer for Electric Services in the amount of $59,468.47 (inclusive of Iowa Sales Tax)
18. Resolution approving contract and bond for 2021/22 Water System Improvements Program
(US Highway 69: S Duff-Grand Avenue)
19. 2021/22 Shared Use Path System Expansion (Ioway Creek):
a. Resolution approving final plans and specifications
b. Motion rejecting all bids and directing staff to re-bid
20. 2021/22 Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation (Ames High School and Veenker Golf):
a. Motion accepting report of bids
b. Resolution approving final plans and specifications
c. Resolution awarding contract to Municipal Pipe Tool Co. LLC of Hudson, Iowa in the
amount of $3,791,558.69
21. Resolution approving Final Plat for 2108 E Lincoln Way (Fedeler Subdivision)
22. Resolution accepting final completion of the Water Treatment Plant Remote Site Radio and
PLC Upgrades
23. Resolution accepting final completion of the contract for the Transmission Modifications at
SE 16th Street and S. Duff Avenue Intersection by IES Commercial, Holdredge, Nebraska
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. Presentation of 2022 Resident Satisfaction Survey Results
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PLANNING AND HOUSING:
25. Staff Report regarding The Linc Development Project (300 and 400 Block of Lincoln Way)
26. North Dayton Industrial Park (2105 & 2421 Dayton Avenue):
a. Resolution approving Preliminary Plat
b. Resolution approving Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Development Agreement with
Dayton Avenue Development LLC
27. Staff Report regarding Zoning Text Amendment to the Wholesale Trade and Display Store
Parking Rate
28. Staff Report regarding Zoning Text Amendment Home Occupation
HEARINGS:
29. Hearing on Power Plant Renovations Project:
a. Motion receiving Report of Bids
b. Motion rejecting all bids
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.
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE AMES AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING
ORGANIZATION (AAMPO) TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE AND
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA SEPTEMBER 27, 2022
AMES AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION (AAMPO)
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE MEETING
CALL TO ORDER: The Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (AAMPO)
Transportation Policy Committee meeting was called to order by Ames Mayor and voting member
John Haila at 6:10 p.m. on the 27th day of September, 2022. Other voting members present were:
Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen, City of Ames; Gloria Betcher, City of Ames; Amber Corrieri, City of
Ames; Tim Gartin, City of Ames; Rachel Junck, City of Ames; Anita Rollins, City of Ames; Linda
Murken, Story County Supervisor; Bill Zinnel, Boone County Supervisor; and Jacob Ludwig,
Transit Board.
CONSENT AGENDA: Moved by Betcher, seconded by Murken, to approve the following items
on the Consent Agenda.
1. Motion approving appointment of Ames Public Works Director John Joiner to the Statewide
Urban Design Specifications (SUDAS) Board of Directors
2. Motion approving Transit Safety Targets
3. RESOLUTION NO. 22-529 certifying project shown in the Iowa Clean Air Attainment
Program (ICAAP) Grant Application conforms to the AAMPO’s regional transportation
planning process
4. RESOLUTION NO. 22-530 approving formal request to Federal Highway Administration
(FHWA) to update the Federal Functional Classification (FFC) to Minor Arterial for S outh
Grand Avenue from Stonehaven Drive to South 16th Street
Vote on Motion: 10-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR THE SOUTH DUFF AVENUE
INTERCHANGE & CORRIDOR STUDY: Transportation Planner Kyle Thompson presented
the map for the South Duff Avenue corridor and interchange study. The study is needed on the
South Duff Avenue corridor from South 16th Street to Airport Road, including intersections
approaching the intersection at South Duff Avenue and Airport Road, which are scheduled in the
traffic system capacity improvements program for fiscal year 2023.
Mr. Thompson stated that the plan was originally identified in the Ames Area MPO’s 2045
Metropolitan Transportation Plan, Forward 2045, due to the reconstruction of the South Duff
Avenue and US 30 Interchange being listed a mid-term project in Forward 2045’s fiscally
constrained plan. South Duff Avenue, explained Mr. Thompson, is one of the primary regional
connections into the Ames urban area and serves nearly 30,000 vehicles a day on average within
the study area, making it the busiest stretch of any surface street in the Ames region. It is estimated
that the primary intersections along this study corridor make up four of the top 15 highest volume
intersections in the Ames region, including the highest volume intersection, South Duff Avenue
and South 16th Street. According to the MPO’s travel demand model, the traffic volumes along the
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study corridor are expected to continue to grow, particularly should anticipated future development
occur to the south.
Mr. Thompson reviewed that the MPO included this study in its Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2023
Transportation Planning Work Program (TPWP) as a special study. The FFY23 TPWP allocated
$100,000 in MPO planning funds to this study, with $25,000 as the needed local match from the
City of Ames as the local sponsor for the study for a total project budget of $125,000. The City of
Ames lists this project in its 2022-23 Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) within the Traffic System
Capacity Improvements Program, with the $25,000 local match coming from Road Use Tax funds.
The consultant selection method was discussed by Mr. Thompson. He clarified that applicable
federal- and state-mandated purchasing requirements were followed. To allow use of federal
planning funds, the City of Ames solicited a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the study. A total of
six proposals were received. Each of these proposals were evaluated and ranked by a project
selection team consisting of Ames Area MPO, City of Ames, and Iowa DOT staff. Given the
rankings, staff negotiated a contract with the highest ranked firm, HDR Engineering, Inc. of
Omaha, Nebraska. Mr. Thompson highlighted that HDR Engineering, Inc. is a familiar name, as
they worked on the long-range plan for the MPO and are currently wrapping up the Grand Avenue
Corridor Study.
Mr. Thompson presented the study scope. The key services included: 1) Evaluation of existing
conditions (vehicle traffic counts, crash data, transit usage, bicycle and pedestrian usage, multi-
modal origin-destination behavior); 2) Traffic forecasting to years 2030 and 2045 by utilizing the
Regional Travel Demand Model; 3) Develop and refine corridor and interchange alternatives by
utilizing traffic modeling (including the use of microsimulation models) in coordination with City
of Ames and Iowa DOT staff; 4) Provide planning-level cost estimates, conceptual layouts,
estimated vehicle emissions, and a 20-year life-cycle cost-benefit analysis for the 2 refined build
alternatives; 5) Provide support for a public open house; 6) Develop a report detailing the study’s
findings, including a presentation of the draft report to the Ames Area MPO Transportation Policy
Committee for feedback and; 7) Finalizing the report, including the development of a funding plan
to design and build the recommended alternative as well as a desired timeline for implementation
of the improvements.
Council Member Gartin asked if enough studies have been completed on the improvements in
Southdale to feel confident there. Traffic Engineer Damion Pregitzer replied in the affirmative,
noting that this project is culminating several different traffic analyses, so the study will include
all those improvements as well as any anticipated growth. Council Member Gartin asked for
clarification, mentioning the turn lane added for Billy Sunday Road. Mr. Pregitzer replied that the
proposed study would account for those improvements and add to them. Council Member Gartin
furthered that it would be helpful to show how the data corresponds to the feedback received and
other projects previously completed.
Council Member Gartin stated that the City is also working on a Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan.
He asked if the data from the proposed study would benefit the work on that plan. Mr. Pregitzer
replied in the affirmative. He stated that the heavy amount of vehicle truck and delivery traffic
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needs to be managed in the proposed area, thus whatever information that can be pulled from this
study can be communicated with the consultants for the Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan to help
figure out what level of bike and pedestrian treatment would be necessary for an interchange
improvement.
Council Member Gartin noted that in the past, staff has discussed integrating smart technology for
the stoplight systems and asked if this study was a step toward getting more smart intersections.
Engineer Pregitzer stated that Mr. Gartin was referring to the Intelligent Transportation Sy stems
(ITS) Network, noting that South Duff was Phase 1 of the project, and the contract has been
awarded. He furthered that construction for the fiber network and adaptive signal system along the
corridor will begin next summer, discussing the benefits and applications of the ITS Network, and
the interaction with the proposed study.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Ludwig, to recommend Ames City Council approval of Professional
Services Agreement for the South Duff Avenue Interchange & Corridor Study with HDR
Engineering, Inc. of Omaha, Nebraska, in an amount not to exceed $124,958.
Vote on Motion: 10-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR THE 190TH STREET CORRIDOR
STUDY: Mr. Thompson presented the area map and noted that the need for a study of the 190th
Street corridor from George Washington Carver Avenue to US 69 was originally identified in the
Ames Area MPO’s 2045 Metropolitan Transportation Plan, Forward 2045, to evaluate current and
future traffic operations and develop potential solutions to address current and anticipated future
traffic operational deficiencies. Story County, the City of Ames, and the Ames Area MPO received
feedback that traffic operations along 190th Street, particularly at the intersection of 190th Street
and Hyde Avenue, have begun to deteriorate in recent years due to new residential developments
in the area, and significant delays and perceived safety issues are being experienced, particularly
during peak hours.
The City of Ames and Story County joint-funded the installation of a temporary signal at the
intersection of 190th Street and Hyde Avenue in October 2021, which has thus far improved traffic
operations. However, with anticipated further development in this area, traffic volumes are
expected to continue to grow along the corridor, and longer-term solutions should be evaluated for
the 190th Street corridor in this region to accommodate that growth.
Earlier this year, the Ames Area MPO included this study in its Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2023
Transportation Planning Work Program (TPWP) as a special study. The FFY23 TPWP allocated
$52,000 in MPO planning funds for this study, with $13,000 as the local match from the City of
Ames as the local sponsor, providing a total project budget of $65,000. The City of Ames showed
this project in its 2022-23 Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) within the Traffic System Capacity
Improvements Program, with the $13,000 local match coming from Road Use Tax funds.
Mr. Thompson explained that following applicable federal and state mandated purchasing
requirements, to allow use of federal planning funds, the City of Ames solicited a Request for
Proposals (RFP) for the study. A total of seven proposals were received. Each of these proposals
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were evaluated and ranked by a project selection team consisting of Ames Area MPO, City of
Ames, and Story County engineering staff. Given the rankings, staff negotiated a contract with the
highest ranked firm, Bolton & Menk, Inc. of Ames, Iowa.
The study scope and key services were reviewed by Mr. Thompson, and include: 1) Evaluation of
existing conditions (vehicle traffic counts, vehicle speeds, crash data, bicycle and pedestrian usage,
multi-modal origin-destination behavior, railroad crossing delay); 2) Traffic forecasting to years
2030 and 2045 by utilizing the Regional Travel Demand Model; 3) Detailed inventory of existing
setbacks, right-of-way, and roadway configuration along the corridor; 4) Conduct an access control
review including recommendations for future development access and street spacing along 190 th
Street; 5) Develop and refine corridor alternatives by utilizing traffic modeling in coordination
with City of Ames, Story County staff, Iowa DOT staff; 6) Provide planning-level cost estimates,
conceptual layouts, estimated vehicle emissions, and a 20-year life-cycle cost-benefit analysis for
the two refined build alternatives; 7) Provide support for a public open house; 8) Develop a report
detailing the study’s findings, including a presentation of the draft report to the Ames Area MPO
Transportation Policy Committee for feedback and; 9) Finalizing the report, including a final
estimated cost and desired timeline for implementation for the recommended alternative.
Story County Supervisor Linda Murken thanked the City of Ames for participating with Story
County in the installation of the temporary signal. She stated that all the anecdotal evidence she
has heard is that it is much appreciated. She noted that the community understands that it may not
be the ultimate solution that is decided upon, but it has helped, particularly during the school year.
Ms. Murken noted that she did send staff an email on July 26th, 2022, regarding this study, which
included several steps that she hoped the County would also be involved in because of the proposed
location of the study. Also because of the location, she believed that the County should be involved
in this study, maybe more than normal. Ms. Murken discussed the possibility of hosting a public
open house in the Gilbert, as there are many stakeholders in the Gilbert area, and asked staff to
consider hosting an open house in Gilbert as well as in Ames.
Mr. Thompson noted that in the agreement, including the consultant selection process and initial
work, Story County Engineering is included, and emphasized that staff will be sure to coordinate
with all the stakeholders during the process. Mayor Haila asked if there would be an extra charge
to host an open house in two locations. Engineer Pregitzer replied that staff would be able to host
a second open house at no additional cost with the materials prepared by the consultant, if needed.
Mayor Haila noted his support to host the open house in two locations, as the Mayor of Gilbert has
been interested in this study.
Council Member Gartin asked if it would make sense to consider increasing the scope of the study
to include Hyde Avenue. Engineer Pregitzer replied that the expense to add another corridor onto
the study would not have any real benefit. He stated that the Long Range Transportation Plan looks
at travel patterns and which actual roadways will see significant increases in traffic beyond what
the road would be able to accommodate. Anything used as a basis of decision-making north of
190th Street would be speculative at this point and better completed when proposals for subdivision
development are available for review.
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Moved by Ludwig, seconded by Murken, to recommend Ames City Council approval of
Professional Services Agreement for the 190th Street Corridor Study with Bolton & Menk, Inc. of
Ames, Iowa, in an amount not to exceed $64,900
Vote on Motion: 10-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
POLICY COMMITTEE COMMENTS: No comments were made.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Ludwig, seconded by Junck, to adjourn the meeting at 6:32 p.m.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
The regular meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor John Haila at 6:34
p.m. on the 27th day of September, 2022, in the City Council Chambers in City Hall, 515 Clark
Avenue, pursuant to law. Present were Council Members Gloria Betcher, Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen,
Amber Corrieri, Tim Gartin, Rachel Junck, and Anita Rollins. Ex officio Member Bryce Garman
was also present.
Proclamation for “Watershed Awareness Month” October 2022: Mayor John Haila
proclaimed October 2022 as Watershed Awareness Month. The proclamation was accepted by
Elizabeth Calhoun, Stormwater Resource Analyst, and Dustin Albrecht, Environmental Specialist.
Proclamation for “EcoFair Day” October 1, 2022: Mayor John Haila proclaimed October 1,
2022 as EcoFair Day. The Proclamation was accepted by Donald Kom, Director of Electric
Services, and Bill Schmidt, Resource Recovery Superintendent. Director Kom stated that the
EcoFair will be Saturday, October 1, 2022, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the parking lot next to
City Hall, 515 Clark Avenue, and emphasized the electric car display and school supply exchange
that will be taking place.
CONSENT AGENDA: Mayor Haila noted that the City Council is working from an amended
agenda. He stated that Item No. 6, motion approving new Class C Liquor License with Sunday
Sales - Ames Pool Hall, LLC, 125 Main Street, and Item No. 29, resolution accepting completion
of the contract for the Transmission Modifications at SE 16th Street and S. Duff Avenue
Intersection by IES Commercial, Holdredge, Nebraska, have been pulled from the consent agenda
and will be revisited at a future meeting. Mayor Haila also pulled Item No. 13 from the Consent
Agenda for staff to make a presentation on the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for fiscal
year ending June 30th, 2021.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to approve the following items on the consent
agenda as amended.
3. Motion approving payment of claims
4. Motion approving Minutes of Regular Meeting of September 13, 2022 and Special Meeting
of September 14, 2022
5. Motion approving Civil Service candidates
6. Motion approving new Class C Liquor License with Sunday Sales - Ames Pool Hall, LLC,
125 Main Street
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7. Motion approving new 5-Day Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service (September 28-
Oct 2) Apres Bar Co at Zylstra Harley Davidson 1930 East 13th Street
8. Motion approving ownership update for Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit,
Class C Beer Permit (carryout beer) and Sunday Sales - Hy-Vee Food & Drugstore #2, 640
Lincoln Way
9. Motion approving ownership update for Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit,
Class C Beer Permit (carryout beer) and Sunday Sales - Hy-Vee Food Store #1, 3800 W
Lincoln Way
10. Motion approving the renewal of the following Beer Permits, Wine Permits and Liquor
Licenses:
a. Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit, Class C Beer Permit (carryout beer)
and Sunday Sales - Hy-Vee Food & Drugstore #2, 640 Lincoln Way
b. Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit, Class C Beer Permit (carryout beer)
and Sunday Sales - Hy-Vee Food Store #1, 3800 W Lincoln Way
c. Class C Liquor License with Sunday Sales - Bullseye Restaurant Group LLC, 114 South
Duff Avenue
d. Class C Liquor License with Sunday Sales - London Underground, 212 Main Street
e. Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit, Class C Beer Permit (carryout beer)
and Sunday Sales - CVS Pharmacy #10452, 2420 Lincoln Way #104
f. Class C Liquor License with Sunday Sales - Flipn’ Jacks Pancake House & Eatery, 1520
S Dayton Place Pending Dram Shop Insurance
g. Class C Liquor License with Sunday Sales and Outdoor Service - Sips & Paddy’s Irish
Pub, 126 Welch, Pending Dram Shop Insurance
h. Class C Beer Permit with Class B Wine Permit and Sunday Sales - Aldi, Inc #48, 108
South 5th Street
i. Class B Beer Permit with Sunday Sales - Chicha Shack Ames, 131 Welch
j. Class B Beer Permit with Sunday Sales - Macubana, 116 Welch
11. RESOLUTION NO. 22-503 authorizing the expenditure of $5,000 ($4,000 City Council
Operating Budget and $1,000 Ames Human Relations Commission) in support of the 2022
Symposium on Building Inclusive Organizations event in partnership with the Ames
Chamber of Commerce, and the Iowa State University Office of Diversity, Equity and
Inclusion
12. RESOLUTION NO. 22-504 approving Memorandum of Understanding Between Story
County Emergency Management and the City of Ames
13. RESOLUTION NO. 22-505 approving Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for Fiscal
Year ended June 30, 2021
14. RESOLUTION NO. 22-506 authorizing Housing Coordinator to approve contractual
extensions with NonProfit Organizations, that have purchase and/or rehabilitation agreements
previously approved by City Council
15. Signalized Intersection Traffic Camera System Purchase:
a. RESOLUTION NO. 22-507 waiving Purchasing Policies and Procedures bidding process
and awarding a sole-source contract for the purchase of GRIDSMART traffic intersection
camera systems
b. RESOLUTION NO. 22-508 approving sole-source contract with General Traffic
Controls, Spencer, Iowa in an amount not to exceed $280,000
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16. RESOLUTION NO. 22-509 approving Professional Service Agreement for 2022/23 Traffic
System Capacity Improvements - S Duff Avenue Interchange & Corridor Study (S 16th
Street-Airport Road)
17. RESOLUTION NO. 22-510 approving Professional Service Agreement for 2022/23 Traffic
System Capacity Improvements - 190th Street Corridor Study (George Washington Carver
Avenue - US 69)
18. RESOLUTION NO. 22-511 awarding contract to Ziegler Caterpillar, Minneapolis,
Minnesota, for their monthly rental bid of $10,000/month for 5 or 6 months, and $400 each
way transport fees, for one motor grader during the 2022-2023 snow season
19. RESOLUTION NO. 22-512 approving Change Order No. 1 to HTH Companies, Inc. In the
amount $55,000 for additional scaffolding, bracing and fall protection to the Scaffolding and
Related Services and Supply Contract
20. RESOLUTION NO. 22-513 approving Change Order No. 1 to Communication Data Link,
Grimes, Iowa, in the amount of $29,090 for Conduit Replacement at Southdale and Old
Orchard Trailer Park
21. RESOLUTION NO. 22-514 approving retainage reduction for City Buildings Access
Control Project
22. RESOLUTION NO. 22-515 approving the procurement of single-source methane generator
engine services, in accordance with the adopted Purchasing Policies, and award a contract to
Interstate Power Systems of Altoona, Iowa, in the amount of $99,597
23. RESOLUTION NO. 22-516 approving Final Plat for Southwood, 6th Addition, and partially
rescinding Resolution No. 22-394
24. RESOLUTION NO. 22-517 approving preliminary plans and specification for Emma
McCarthy Lee Park Tennis and Pickleball Courts Renovation; setting October 26, 2022 as
bid due date and November 8, 2022, as date of public hearing.
25. RESOLUTION NO. 22-518 approving preliminary plans and specifications for City Hall
Interior Updates; setting October 26, 2022 as bid due date and November 8, 2022, as date of
public hearing
26. RESOLUTION NO. 22-519 approving partial completion and reducing financial security for
Quarry Estates #5 Addition
27. RESOLUTION NO. 22-520 approving partial completion and reducing financial security for
Quarry Estates 1st Addition
28. RESOLUTION NO. 22-521 approving partial completion and reducing financial security for
The Quarters
29. Resolution accepting completion of the contract for the Transmission Modifications at SE
16th Street and S. Duff Avenue Intersection by IES Commercial, Holdredge, Nebraska
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion/Resolutions declared carried/adopted, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
ANNUAL COMPREHENSIVE FINANCIAL REPORT: Duane Pitcher, Director of Finance,
introduced Kara Nady, Accounting and Reporting Manager. Ms. Nady provided a summary of the
report, noting that the name of the report had been changed from the previous year and is referred
to by the acronym ACFR. Ms. Nady highlighted that the report had an unmodified or clean opinion;
however, a material weakness was identified. The weakness was from the American Rescue Plan
Agreement, of which the money was received in fiscal year 2021, but compliance guidance was
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not received until fiscal year 2022, so it should have been recognized as deferred revenue. There
was also a finding due to a negative budget variance on the debt service fund, which was because
three bonds were refunded. Ms. Nady stated that the corrective action moving forward is to budget
bond expenses.
Mayor Haila thanked staff for the report and announced that this is Director Pitcher’s last City
Council Meeting as he will be retiring on Friday, September 30th, 2022, after 22 years with the
City of Ames.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-505 approving Annual
Comprehensive Financial Report for Fiscal Year ended June 30, 2021.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion/Resolutions declared carried/adopted, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
PUBLIC FORUM: Mayor Haila opened the Public forum.
Carolyn Klaus, 2167 Ashmore Drive, Ames, spoke on behalf of the League of Women Voters of
Ames and Story Country regarding climate action. She provided a letter to the Mayor and City
Council detailing the comments she shared at the meeting for their consideration.
Mayor Haila closed the Public Forum when no one else came forward to speak.
DISCUSSION ON PROPOSED RENAMING OF THE AMES MUNICIPAL AIRPORT
AFTER J.H. BANNING: Traffic Engineer Damion Pregitzer presented the staff report, which
included the history of the process, the policies on renaming City facilities, and all the Public Input
that was received prior to the meeting.
City Manager Steven Schainker clarified that staff is not asking the City Council to move forward
with the renaming at this meeting, rather, to choose one of the three options listed in the staff report
to give staff direction on how to proceed.
Public Works Director John Joiner explained that should the City C ouncil choose to rename the
airport, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) simply requires a resolution stating the name
change, and from that point on the name would be officially changed. Engineer Pregitzer reviewed
the FAA’s involvement with the name change, noting that local signage could change immediately
with the resolution; however, the FAA’s process for completing an airspace analysis would take
several months, which will only affect pilots flying in and out of the airport.
Council Member Betcher explained that through Public Input the City Council saw that some
individuals believed that leaving “Ames Municipal Airport” at the beginning of the airport name
was preferred over putting it at the end of the name, and asked Mr. Pregitzer for his opinion on the
matter given the FAA’s guidance. Engineer Pregitzer stated that from a technical standpoint, there
is no guidance on placement of “Ames Municipal Airport” in the name and clarified that it is
entirely up to the City Council discretion. Council Member Beatty Hansen followed up by asking
if the name had to include the word “Municipal.” Engineer Pregitzer replied in the negative, noting
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that the FAA’s guidance only outlines that the name of the City should be included. He explained
that many airports include terms like “Regional” or “International” in the name, but the inclusion
of a like term will not change the classification of or how the FAA provides funding to the airport.
Council Member Betcher asked if ordinances existed that would need to be changed as a result of
renaming. Engineer Pregitzer stated that he was unsure at this time but assured the City Council
that a code review would be completed prior to voting on the name change.
Mayor Haila stated that there is also the question if the City Council believes that Mr. Banning fits
the qualifications listed in the naming policy. Council Member Beatty-Hansen noted her support
for Mr. Banning, citing the category of Historical Event, People, and Places as the basis. Council
Member Betcher agreed, stating that Mr. Banning also has national recognition.
Staff gathered Public Input on the renaming, explained Council Member Gartin, and when taking
a close look at the information received, he learned of a few other individuals including Frederick
Douglass Patterson, Neta Snook Southern, and the Westbrook Family, who all had a significant
impact on aviation in Ames. He discussed each of their contributions and noted that there are at
least three other individuals that have made tremendous accomplishments in aviation in connection
with Ames that deserve consideration in the renaming process. Council Member Gartin expressed
his concern of selecting Mr. Banning just because he was the first one nominated, as it creates a
subjective exercise where there is not an effort to apply the criteria listed in the Naming Policy in
an objective or rational manner. He also expressed concern with not having the opportunity to
gather Public Input on the other names, which he believes would have gained support. He proposed
to leave the name of the airport in its current state and find a way to honor all the beforementioned
individuals in a meaningful way at the airport.
Council Member Betcher responded to Mr. Gartin’s comment, noting that the renaming process
was initiated by her putting forth Mr. Banning. She explained that she was aware of Frederick
Douglas Patterson and Neta Snook Southern and she learned more about the amazing career of
Mr. Westbrook through Public Input. She believes that the recommendation before the City
Council of Mr. Banning is justified as his position of a pioneer aviator who inspired Mr. Patterson
and lived in Ames. Ms. Betcher added that there is public interest in naming the terminal after Neta
Snook Southern and shared her support for her as a worthy candidate. Council Member Gartin
replied by reiterating his concern of the process being a speculative exercise and restating his
proposal to leave the airport name in its current state.
Council Member Rollins shared her support for renaming the airport after Mr. Banning, noting
that the nomination meets the criteria listed in the naming policy and is consistent with the City
Council’s vision as well as the mission as it related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts. She
expressed her own concern for applying the criteria in the naming policy in a way to determine
who is best or most deserving and discussed the harm that it could have. Council Member Beatty-
Hansen stated agreement and explained that when picking a name, the City Council is choosing a
name that is inspiring and historically relevant, not the person with the most impact.
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Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to approve Option 1: Direct staff to prepare and return a
resolution to City Council at a future date to rename the Airport as “James Herman Banning Ames
Municipal Airport.”
Council Member Junck stated her support of the renaming after Mr. Banning. She noted her
enjoyment in learning about all of the other individuals with impacts on aviation in Ames and
shared the idea to have an interactive history exhibit or some sort of feature at the airport honoring
Ames’ pioneers, as there can only be one person that the airport is name after, and she believes
Mr. Banning fits the bill well.
Council Member Rollins shared that she had posted the Press Release to her personal Facebook
page and received overwhelming support, which she believes was echoed in the Public Input
received from the community.
Vote on Motion: 5-1. Voting Aye: Betcher, Beatty-Hansen, Corrieri, Junck, Rollins. Voting Nay:
Gartin. Motion declared carried.
COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS ON MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES: Assistant City
Manager Deb Schildroth noted that the City Council has a goal to implement City programs and
initiatives that educate, train, and engage the community around mental and physical wellness. She
stated that the series of Community Conversations will talk about topics such as suicide, navigating
the mental health system, and education and resources around mental health. Six Community
Conversations are planned with the first conversation scheduled for Tuesday, October 4th, 2022
from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Farwell T. Brown Auditorium at the Ames Public Library. Ms.
Schildroth shared that the first topic would be suicide, which would include personal stories,
agencies that provide services to families and individuals experiencing mental health issues, and
community input around the topic.
The schedule was presented for the Conversations by Assistant City Manager Schildroth:
• October 4th, 2022 – Suicide: Facts, Hope, and Resources
• November 3rd, 2022 – Mental Health Education and Resources
• January 31st, 2023 – Resiliency
• March 7th, 2023 – Drug Abuse
• April 4th, 2023 – Civility in Conversations
• May 2nd, 2023 – Navigating Mental Health and Substance Abuse Systems
Ms. Schildroth noted that the City Council is being asked to appropriate up to $5,000 from Council
Contingency to help cover costs associated with the Community Conversations, including
supplies, advertising, printing, possible speaker fees, etc. She explained that the outcome of these
educational offerings is to provide information and education that positively impacts the physical,
emotional, and mental health well-being of individuals of all ages in our community.
Council Member Betcher asked if the continuation of the conversation model is something that
should be codified in the City Council’s budget, rather than using contingency funds, since the
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program fulfils one of the City Council’s identified values and goals. Mayor Haila noted that it
may be premature right now but believes that it would be a merited investment.
Mayor Haila shared his excitement for the event and added that suicide is not an easy conversation
to start with, but he wanted to stress that the Conversation will be a three-pronged approach,
starting with presenting the facts, then talking about resources, and hope. He stated that multiple
community organizations will be there to provide a snapshot across the community in short
presentations, including Iowa State University, Mary Greeley Medical Center, Ames Community
School District, Ames Police Department, Youth and Shelter Services, and National Alliance on
Mental Illness. Council Member Junck asked if the City Council would be able to get a report
detailing the results of the events and directions that the City Council could take it in the future
after the first set of Conversations concludes. The Mayor replied in the affirmative.
Council Member Gartin asked if the Conversations would be recorded or broadcast. Assistant City
Manager Schildroth replied that the event will be in-person, but a recording will be available on
the City of Ames website and shared with others who want to post in on their own website.
Council Member Gartin echoed the Mayor’s comments and said that he has found that people in
the community who may be going through mental health journeys sense that they are alone and do
not know that they have a community around them to help. He stated that he believes this effort
regarding mental health is an important step to help connect people with the resources that are
available. Assistant City Manager Schildroth agreed and noted that sometimes people do not know
where to start, so they end up in a crisis. To be more proactive, Ms. Schildroth explained, the
Conversations will provide information on resources and what to expect to experience should
someone utilize the available resources. Council Member Gartin asked if the Faith communities
in Ames could be made aware of these events, as oftentimes they are on the front lines. Assistant
City Manager Schildroth replied in the affirmative and reviewed how the communities was being
engaged. Mayor Haila also noted that members of the Faith communities have been asked to
participate in some of the Conversations as a panelist or presenter.
Council Member Rollins asked for clarification on how the City is getting the message out about
the Conversations. Assistant City Manager Schildroth replied that staff is working on radio spots,
communicating through the website and social media platforms as well as through Iowa State
University and Ames Community School District to reach student populations. Mayor Haila stated
that the event will also be highlighted in the monthly newsletters.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Gartin, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-522 approving up to $5,000
in Council Contingency funds to help cover the costs associated with this initiative.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
STAFF REPORT ON ORGANIZED SOLID WASTE COLLECTION: Assistant City
Manager Brian Phillips presented the staff report on organized solid waste collection with John
Joiner, Director of Public Works, and Bill Schmidt, Resource Recovery Plant Superintendent. Mr.
Phillips stated that the report was initiated by a referral to staff from the City Counci l to evaluate
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the City’s current waste collection system with private sector haulers providing waste collection
for residential properties.
Assistant City Manager Phillips walked through highlights of the report, reviewing the different
models for solid waste collection.
• Organized Collection
• Open Collection
• Municipal Collection
• Contract Municipal Collection
• Segmented Collection
• Zonal Collection
The Collection Model Metrics provided a basis to compare the waste collection models, which
were discussed in detail by Mr. Phillips.
• Customer Choice of Provider
• Service Offerings
• Pricing Uniformity
• Traffic
• Noise
• Greenhouse Gas Emissions
• Road Wear and Tear
• Waste Volume
• Nuisance Abatement Tools
• Administrative Effort: Transitional
Period
• Administrative Effort: Ongoing
• Operating Costs
• Impact to Current Providers
Council Member Gartin expressed his concern with pricing in regard to the different models, not
wanting to lose sight of residents living on a fixed income. Assistant City Manager Phillips
clarified that the City Council will not be making a decision at this meeting regarding a collection
model. He stated that this presentation is a response to the City Council’s referral and with the
information provided, the City Council can direct staff on how to proceed.
Council Member Betcher asked if any of the available data for communities that provide municipal
collection detail a transition to municipal collection, as from what she can tell, many of those
communities appear to have had municipal collection for quite some time. Assistant City Manager
Phillips noted that the available data is out of date by nearly ten years, so it does not provide a
good measure over time.
Other options outside of the collection models were presented by Mr. Phillips.
• Recycling and organics collection at multi-family properties
• Require pay-as-you-throw rates
• Eliminate residential 2x weekly collection
• Require route efficiency plans from haulers
• Establish minimum hauler service standards regarding garbage, recycling, and organics
Council Member Gartin was apprehensive of the pay-as-you-throw rates, stating that it would
disproportionally affect larger families. He said that the City Council needed to be careful of
socially engineering people, but rather should be encouraging people to recycle and compost.
Assistant City Manager Phillips reviewed the next steps, emphasizing that the City Council must
determine what it wants to achieve and what the policy goals are related to: 1) Customer costs; 2)
Sustainability, including truck emissions and waste reduction or diversion; 3) Service availability;
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and, 4) Traffic, nuisance, and noise abatement. City Manager Schainker clarified that staff has not
made a recommendation to the City Council but expressed that one of the options should not be
staff getting involved in the business through municipal collection. He stated that the option of
municipal collection has a lot of detrimental impacts, and efficiencies can be accomplished by
utilizing the private sector’s expertise. He also noted that staff is not suggesting changing
everything initially, emphasizing that the study focused on residential haulers, and the City Council
goal should focus there as well.
After determining the policy goals, explained Assistant City Manager Phillips, staff will need to
conduct more studies for options that best achieve the goals. He stated that staff will: 1) Gather
feedback; 2) Consult with providers; 3) Research specific examples; and, 4) Retain experts to
develop a transition and implementation plan.
Council Member Betcher stated that it seems that one of the benefits to municipal collection is that
the City has a contract with Chevron REG for biodiesel in snowplows, and she wondered if there
is a means for the City to have that same functionality for trucks from other haulers. Assistant City
Manager Phillips replied in the affirmative, noting that it is possible for the City Council to set
standards for what the service should look like, even if it is not service provided by the City.
Council Member Gartin expressed his support for that suggestion, stating that haulers may not be
aware of the positive benefits of biodiesel.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen shared that sustainability is the biggest factor for her when
discussing policy goals. To the point about changing the system, believed the impact would be a
big one and it would be asking a lot of the provider and consumers. She said that in terms of her
initial gut reaction, she favored the contract model because it allows for huge efficiency gains, and
it would allow the City Council to ask for services like recycling or compost pickup to be offered.
In looking at other communities, Ms. Beatty-Hansen said that she understands the challenges but
almost no other peer communities provide a completely open system, which makes her think that
our system is probably a little out of date, or there are better systems out there.
Council Member Junck expressed her excitement about the report because it is the first step in the
direction of continuous improvement that a lot of peer communities have taken. She shared that
her interest is in the sustainability of the type of metrics. One thing that she believed to be important
is pricing uniformity because Ames residents see a lot of variability with providers right now. She
also mentioned that the ability of City staff to handle the ongoing administration efforts as well as
the efforts in the transition period is also an important consideration for her.
Council Member Corrieri asked if in the research, staff found an example of a hybrid model
between a contract system and an open system where a city contracts with two or three providers
and consumers have the choice between those providers, who all provide a consistent set of
services. Assistant City Manager Phillips replied that he does not know of any cities that use that
exact kind of model but noted that it does not mean that it cannot be done. Council Member
Corrieri asked about the Metro Waste Authority. Assistant City Manager Phillips noted that their
services were a good parallel for what Council Member Corrieri discussed with the hybrid model.
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She emphasized that her main goals are to balance sustainability goals and addressing the concerns
of consumers and area haulers.
Council Member Rollins shared her agreement for the sustainability goals and likes the idea to
think about opportunities to best balance the concerns of customer costs. She stated that another
piece she would like to think about is how to think creatively on how to meet the needs of families
with economic constraints so that resources are not cut off, which may include the opportunity for
neighbors in the community to help.
Council Member Gartin supported Council Member Rollins’ statement, sharing that he wants to
be protective of homeowners as the cost-of-living increases. He expressed fear in pricing people
out of the Ames community, so he agreed with Council Member Corrieri’s point. Council Member
Gartin highlighted the impact on haulers and noted that the City Council wants to hear from them
in the process. He said that if he were to choose one of the methods tonight, the zonal approach
would be his choice as it creates opportunities for smaller haulers. He also supported the idea of
sharing information about the City’s success with biodiesel with the haulers and believed that it is
a worthwhile endeavor to pursue even outside of this study.
Council Member Betcher expressed that the City cannot continue with the open collection model
if the City Council is serious about Climate action. She agreed that the City Council needs to try
to find a balance and be aware of unintended consequences. She said that she is also aware of the
sustainability component and how a more efficient system can contribute to climate action.
Council Member Betcher stated that zonal collection seems to be the middle ground that would
allow for a reduction of traffic and increased efficiency with a medium impact on current providers.
She said that she wants to be cognizant of the fact that most of the complaints received related to
solid waste collection has to do with nuisance and noise abatement. She also shared appreciation
for Council Member Rollin’s statement for assistance from the community for residents operating
under financial restrictions.
Ex officio Garman shared agreement with the comments from the City Council and shared that
service availability and administration efforts by staff are two areas that he finds important to be
mindful of during this process.
Mayor Haila asked if the area haulers have had a chance to provide input. Resource Recovery Plant
Superintendent Bill Schmitt responded that staff spoke with all the area haulers the winter prior to
beginning the study to inform them that a report would be presented to the City Council, but that
was the extent of the conversation to this point.
Mayor Haila stated that he agreed with Council Member Corrieri when it came to road wear and
tear. He said that it is important to think about the cost associated with that, which is probably not
being factored into the study. He also spoke to nuisance abatement and noise, noting that haulers
make multiple trips through each neighborhood on a weekly basis. He stated that as this process
moves forward, a lot of public input is needed on the matter from both residents and haulers. Mayor
Haila also shared his support for a discussion with haulers regarding biodiesel, not only to provide
information on the benefits but also to work towards sustainability.
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The meeting recessed at 8:36 p.m. and resumed at 8:43 p.m.
Mayor Haila opened the Public Input.
Jeri Neal, 916 Ridgewood Avenue, Ames, stated that she came into this already assuming that a
change needed to be made in how the community is doing their collection methods; however, she
really appreciated the report. She stated that she likes having metrics and, speaking from the Ames
Climate Action Team’s point of view, the greenhouse gas emission is a critical metric and plays
out into so many other pieces. She stated that even in talking about the cost of resurfacing the road,
that is also an additional impact with greenhouse gases. Ms. Neal noted that there are a lot of
experts who will say that if cities do not get on board, addressing the challenges and issues with
climate change cannot be done. She reiterated that sustainability is her priority. Ms. Neal then
shared comments on behalf of Paul Reedhead, Roosevelt Neighborhood Resident, who was not
able to attend the meeting in person but was watching from home. His goals are sustainability and
nuisance reduction. He asked about the hybrid model similar to what Council Member Corrieri
had mentioned and was thinking of a zonal approach similar to the Stone Brooke neighborhood
where the Neighborhood Association got together and that all decided to negotiate service from
one hauler. He raised concern about lack of public engagement and wondered how the City Council
can actively bring in everyone’s thinking into how to address this issue.
Dave Massey, Ankeny Sanitation, 7002 Southeast Delaware Avenue, Ankeny, Iowa, stated that
staff presented a great report and that he had been on the call with staff the winter prior to beginning
research. He noted that as the City Council discusses contracts and what fits the community, since
no two contracts are alike, that area haulers can provide expertise on cart sizing options. The
biggest thing, he said, is customer freedom of choice, even though change may bring more cost-
effective routes. He said that the area haulers are willing to provide input and make suggestions to
assist the process.
Susie Petra, 2011 Duff Avenue, Ames, shared support for all the priorities and expressed concern
for being mindful of the livelihood of the local area haulers. She said that she appreciated the zonal
model to ensure that the area haulers can service the same size customer base and keep
approximately the same profits. She noted that residents may be upset with the change for a year
and a half but then would soon get use to the new system. As long as residents have input, she
explained, and the City works to a realistic hybrid model, residents will be agreeable to changing
the system.
Mayor Haila closed the Public Input when no one else came forward to speak.
The City Council discussed options for moving forward with the study in order to find an efficient
system for the Ames community that addresses the issues previously mentioned, including how to
engage with area haulers and receive input from residents.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Corrieri, to eliminate the municipal model from consideration.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion carried unanimously.
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Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to direct staff to seek input from the current haulers
operating residentially in the City of Ames on the outcomes and goals discussed and provide a
report to the City Council.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion carried unanimously.
The City Council discussed concerns relating to commercial and industrial solid waste collection
but agreed that the focus of the study was and will continue to be on residential properties. Staff
commented that the study would be a good opportunity to see if satisfactory changes can be made
to the system and then later applying them to unique locations like Downtown and multi-family
apartment buildings. The City Council reviewed the option for minimum hauler service standards
across all areas of solid waste collection.
REPLACEMENT OF FIRE ENGINE #1: Fire Chief Rich Higgins stated that the Fire
Department has an Apparatus Replacement Program that ensures replacement of fire apparatus at
the end of their operational life, which facilitates keeping front line fire apparatus for a maximum
of 15 years, after which the goal is to retain the apparatus as a reserve for an additional 10-15 years.
Five Fire Department staff from multiple ranks, with input from Fleet Services, made up the
Engine Replacement Team. The team met over several months with multiple fire departments from
across Iowa. In-person interviews and site visits were conducted with fire departments to evaluate
different apparatus vendors and design configurations.
On July 19, staff issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to prospective fire engine vendors.
Responses were received from three vendors and evaluated based on several factors including
safety, operational costs, service, design, ease of operation, vendor’s technical ability, stability,
experience, and references. Chief Higgins noted that costs of the units were not included in the
initial evaluation. The lowest scoring vendor was eliminated from consideration because they were
not able to secure and provide airbags in the fire engine, which is a significant safety concern.
Reliant Fire Apparatus INC. scored substantially higher than the other vendors during the
evaluation process before costs were considered. Reliant Fire Apparatus INC. was the only vendor
to originally include fully functioning airbags, with rollover protection in their initial proposal.
Chief Higgins also stated that Reliant Fire Apparatus INC. is responsible for designing and
building the most recent fire department apparatus, Tower 1 and Engine 2.
The Capital Improvement Plan includes $747,000 for the replacement of Engine 1, explained Chief
Higgins, including the cost to outfit it with new fire hose and other equipment. He emphasized that
the funding shortfall will be covered using anticipated savings that have been identified in the
current fiscal year from open firefighter positions that will be filled later this year.
Council Member Betcher asked if there is a possibility in the future for Fire Engines to use
biodiesel. Chief Higgins replied in the affirmative and stated that he had already had conversations
with the Fleet Director about upgrading vehicles to B20. He also noted that there may be the option
to have battery operated or hybrid engines as well.
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Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Input when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-523 awarding contract
to Reliant Fire Apparatus, INC., for replacement of Fire Engine #1.
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 2022/23 ADOPTED BUDGET FOR
CARRYOVERS FROM FISCAL YEAR 2021/22: Finance Director Duane Pitcher stated that
this is the first amendment for the fiscal year, and it primarily consists of items that were budgeted
but not completed. He stated that the amendment is to help the departments track their budget and
also to fulfill a state code requirement.
The Public Hearing was opened and closed when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-524 amending Fiscal
Year 2022/23 Budget to increase expenditures by $99,338,193 for carryover amounts from Fiscal
Year 2021/22.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
Council Member Gartin asked how carryovers this year compared to prior years. Budget Manager
Nancy Masteller replied that the carryovers were consistent with the last few years, she highlighted
that some major projects were completed this year so the carryovers may have even been a little
lower.
HEARING ON INTEGRATED SITE PLAN SUBDIVISION WITH CONCURRENT
PRELIMINARY PLAT AND MAJOR SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR 1200 & 1220 S
DUFF AVENUE: City Planner Eloise Sahlstrom highlighted that the applicant was in attendance
earlier in the meeting to answer any questions but had to leave.
Mayor Haila opened the Public Hearing.
Grant Olsen, 3812 Ontario Street, Ames, stated that the City Council has climate action goals and
when looking at the site plan with that lens, there are concerns regarding accessibility to the site
for bikers, pedestrians, and persons who may be using a wheelchair or other wheeled device. Mr.
Olsen spoke on the differing elevations noting that there were four elevation changes when
traveling from the public sidewalk to the private sidewalk. He said that making minor changes to
the elevation on the site plan would allow a person to not have to make any elevation changes
while moving east to west. He emphasized that the climate action goals are about creating
conditions that are more attractive to non-car modes, and that is his concern with this site plan.
Mayor Haila closed the Public Hearing when no one else came forward to speak.
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Planner Sahlstrom noted that currently the private sidewalk is not connected to the public sidewalk
and the proposed site plan would make that connection. She also clarified that the proposed plan
does meet ADA compliance.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-525 approving
Preliminary Plat for 1200 & 1220 South Duff Avenue.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-526 approving
Major Site Development Plan for 1200 & 1220 South Duff Avenue.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON AMENDMENT TO A MAJOR SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR 400 &
500 W CRYSTAL LOOP FOR BRICKTOWNE PLANNED RESIDENCE DISTRICT: City
Planner Julie Gould stated that the staff report is straight-forward regarding the development plan
but highlighted that there is a unique situation that allows access to the development through Kitty
Hawk Drive. Mayor Haila asked if the access from Kitty Hawk Drive would be gravel. Planner
Gould replied in the affirmative, noting that the developer controls the property to the north and
can ensure this access point is constructed and maintained, and there will also be a gate blocking
that point so it is only accessible by emergency personnel.
Council Member Betcher noted that some Southdale residents were concerned about the drainage.
Planner Goud noted that the drainage should not be affected, as the amendment is similar to the
plan that was approved in 2017 with 20 less units, so none of the major site features will be
changed. Council Member Gartin noted that the Bricktowne subdivision has been one of the most
successful subdivisions in Ames in terms of the impact of flooding in Southdale.
Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Hearing when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt Resolution NO. 22-527 approving Amendment
400 & 500 W Crystal Loop For Bricktowne Planned Residence District.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON 2021/22 SANITARY SEWER REHABILITATION (AMES HIGH
SCHOOL AND VEENKER GOLF): The Public Hearing was declared open by Mayor Haila
and closed when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Rollins, seconded by Betcher, to accept Report of Bids and delay award to gather more
information.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion carried unanimously.
HEARING ON 2021/22 SHARED USE PATH SYSTEM EXPANSION (IOWAY CREEK):
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City Manager Schainker noted that this project, to comply with federal regulations, has set a
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise goal. He stated that the Iowa Department of Transportation is
reviewing the bids and discussing options to appeal the goal.
Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Hearing when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to accept Report of Bids and delay award to gather more
information.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion carried unanimously.
HEARING ON 2021/22 WATER SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM - US
HIGHWAY 69 (SOUTH DUFF - GRAND AVENUE): The Public Hearing was opened and
closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 22-528 approving
final plans and specifications and awarding contract to Synergy Contracting, LLC, Ames, Iowa,
and the amount of $2,286,813.80.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
FIRST PASSAGE OF ORDINANCE ASSIGNING APPROVED ANNEXED AREAS TO
WARDS AND PRECINCTS (SECOND AND THIRD READINGS AND ADOPTION
REQUESTED): Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Input when no one came forward to
speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to pass on first reading an ordinance assigning
approved annexed areas to Wards and Precincts.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Junck, to suspend the rules for second reading and third
reading and adoption.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to pass on second reading an ordinance assigning
approved annexed areas to Wards and Precincts.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Junck, to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO.
4480 assigning approved annexed areas to Wards and Precincts.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Ordinance declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
THIRD PASSAGE AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 4478 ON REZONING, WITH
MASTER PLAN, 3898 UNIVERSITY BOULEVARD FROM “RI” (RESEARCH PARK
INNOVATION ZONING DISTRICT) TO “RI” (RESEARCH PARK INNOVATION
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ZONING DISTRICT) WITH REVISED MASTER PLAN: Moved by Beatty-Hansen,
seconded by Corrieri, to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO. 4478 on Rezoning,
with Master Plan, 3898 University Boulevard from “RI” (Research Park Innovation Zoning
District) to “RI” (Research Park Innovation Zoning District) with Revised Master Plan.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Ordinance declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
THIRD PASSAGE AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 4479 ON PROHIBITING
PARKING AT ALL TIMES OF THE EAST SIDE OF HOOVER AVENUE FROM 24TH
STREET TO 30TH STREET AND FROM BLOOMINGTON ROAD TO ADAMS STREET:
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO.
4479 on prohibiting parking at all times of the east side of Hoover Avenue from 24th Street to 30th
street and from Bloomington Road to Adams Street.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Ordinance declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
DISPOSITION OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: Mayor Haila noted that there were
eight items to consider.
The first item was a memo from Kelly Diekmann, Planning and Housing Director, regarding the
Downtown Urban Revitalization Area (URA) Criteria.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to place on a future agenda.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
A letter from Brian R. Dieter, President & CEO of Mary Greeley Medical Center, requesting to
amend the City of Ames Municipal Code to align with Chapter 392.6 of the State of Iowa Code
was the second item.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to refer the letter to the City Attorney for a memo.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The third item was a letter from Nathan Haila, President of the Hunziker Youth Sports Complex
Board, extending gratitude for financial contributions for scholarships and facility enhancements
through the Outside Funding Grant. Mayor Haila stated that this item was for information only
and no action was required.
A letter from Latifah Faisal, Chair of the Story County Board of Supervisors, was the fourth item,
regarding changes to the Draft Ames Urban Fringe Plan Based on Public Input.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to refer to staff.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The fifth item was an email from Steven Bowman, Ames Resident, requesting reimbursement for
residential structural repair needed after City of Ames Inspection.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to take no action on the request.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
21
An email from Brennan Goodman, Ames Resident, regarding pedestrian safety at the intersection
of University Avenue and South 4th Street was the sixth item.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Corrieri, to decline to take action at this time.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The seventh item was an email from Sue Ravenscroft, Ames Resident, regarding input for the
Capital Improvements Plan regarding Parks and Recreation Facilities.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Betcher, to refer to staff for a memo.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
A memo from Kelly Diekmann, Planning & Housing Director, was the eighth item, regarding a
request for a Text Amendment to Parking Rates related to Furniture Stores (i.e. Display Stores and
Wholesale Trade Uses).
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Corrieri, to place on a future agenda.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Ex officio Bryce Garman noted that the Local Affairs Committee for
Iowa State University Student Government is in the process of planning the Joint Meeting with
the City Council. He stated that the City Council to reach out to him if there were topics they would
like to see on the agenda. He also shared that the Student Government is going to have a limited
agenda the evening of the Joint Meeting for their own meeting to allow more time for discussion
during the Joint Meeting.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen announced that there are several fun activities coming up,
including the EcoFair on Saturday, October 1st, 2022, and the Ames Repair Café on Saturday,
October 8th, 2022. She shared that the Ames Repair Café will be held at the Library and will be a
neat opportunity where volunteers are offering to help the community with repairs on numerous
different items. She encouraged the community to spread the word about the event and consider
volunteering their skills.
Council Member Rollins shared that she had the opportunity to attend the Mental Health Expo and
thought it was a great and well-attended event. She expressed her excitement for the upcoming
Community Conversations.
Council Member Gartin gave a personal word of thanks to the Ames Police Department and staff
at Mary Greeley Medical Center. He shared that his family has been helping a young man who is
working through some health challenges and suffered a crisis. Mr. Gartin shared that on the night
of the crisis he got to see the Police Department in action, and they worked hard to deescalate the
situation while remaining calm. He shared that he could not be more proud of the Ames Police
Department. He also said that the paramedics were fantastic on the way to Mary Greeley, and when
they arrived at the hospital, staff was attentive. He passed on a word of commendation to all
involved in helping with that challenge.
22
Council Member Betcher said thank you to Duane Pitcher, Finance Director, for his excellent
service to the City of Ames. She wished him well in his retirement and noted that he has done an
exceptional duty for the City.
Mayor Haila shared that he is looking forward to the Community Conversation that will take place
on Tuesday, October 4th, 2022. He stated that the team working on this series wants it to truly be
a conversation. He noted that there are so many resources available in Ames so he hopes the
community will see more people reaching out to the resources as a result of the conversations.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Junck, seconded by Corrieri, to adjourn the meeting at 9:31 p.m.
__________________________________ ____________________________________
Carly M. Watson, Principal Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
__________________________________
Renee Hall, City Clerk
REPORT OF
CONTRACT CHANGE ORDERS
Department
General Description
of Contract
Contract
Change
No.
Original Contract
Amount Contractor/ Vendor
Total of Prior
Change Orders
Amount this
Change Order
Change
Approved By
Purchasing
Contact
(Buyer)
Public Works 2021/22 Downtown Street
Pavement Improvements -
Alley Duff Avenue to
Sherman Avenue
1 $127,952.00 Con Struct $0.00 $272.62 J. Joiner KS
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
Period: 1st – 15th
16th – End of Month
Month & Year: September 2022
For City Council Date: October 11, 2022
Item No. 4
Item No. 5
Item No. 6
Item No. 7
Smart Choice
MEMO
To:Mayor John Haila and Ames City Council Members
From:Lieutenant Heath Ropp, Ames Police Department
Date:September 28, 2022
Subject:Beer Permits & Liquor License Renewal Reference City Council Agenda
The Council agenda for October 11th, 2022, includes beer permits and liquor license
renewals for:
Target Store (320 S Duff Ave) ‐ Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit, Class C
Beer Permit (carryout beer) and Sunday Sales
A review of police records for the past 12 months found no liquor law violations for the
above location. The Ames Police Department recommends the license renewal for the
above business.
515.239.5133 non-
emergency
515.239.5130
Administration
515.239.5429 fax
515 Clark Ave. P.O. Box
811
Ames, IA 50010
www.CityofAmes.org
Police Department
Item No. 8
ITEM#: 9
DATE: 10-11-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: SPONSORED RESEARCH AGREEMENT WITH IOWA STATE
UNIVERSITY
BACKGROUND:
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Water Plant staff was continuously dealing with
disruptions in the supply of carbon dioxide (CO2). One creative measure staff investigated
was the use of a “split treatment” operational scheme. Under this scheme, a portion of
the raw well water bypasses the lime softening process. When recombined with the high
pH softened water, the bypassed water helps to drop the pH, thereby reducing the amount
of CO2 required to adjust the pH.
To evaluate the feasibility of the process, staff entered into a sponsored research
agreement with Iowa State University ($21,127). A Water Plant student operator,
Matthew Jacob, was in a graduate environmental engineering program. The agreement
with ISU was for Matthew to initially perform bench-scale testing. When the results
indicated that split treatment could be a viable treatment method, Matthew initiated full-
scale testing. The tests were very successful in achieving the treatment targets of the
Water Plant with substantially lowered chemical feed rates. (As an aside, a few months
after graduation, Matthew applied for an open Environmental Eng ineer position with the
Water & Pollution Control Department and has been a part of our full -time staff since
March.)
A second phase of the study is now proposed. This additional work will look
specifically at the virus loading potential under the split treatment operational
scheme. Staff believes this is an exceedingly small concern, but it was an issue raised
by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) during the permitting of the new
treatment plant. The question is something that needs to be documented before the Iowa
DNR will approve a construction permit to adapt the treatment facility to continuously
operate in a split treatment mode. Additionally, this phase will investigate the impacts
on down-stream valves and equipment due to the altered water chemistry at the
point where the bypassed flow is recombined with the softened water. The work
will be performed by another student operator enrolled in a graduate Environmental
Engineering program, Nicole Martindale.
The dollar amount for the additional work is $29,232. Since the proposal by Iowa
State is a continuation of the original work, the combined dollar amount of both
studies, at $50,359, requires Council authorization. If the results are found
acceptable by the Iowa DNR, the reduction in operating expenses could be well
over $100,000 per year in reduced CO2 and lime usage and a reduction in the
volume of lime sludge produced – all while achieving the same finished water
chemistry.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the Sponsored Research Agreement between Iowa State University and
the City of Ames, Amendment #1 Revised, in the amount of $29,232.
2. Do not approve the agreement at this time and give staff direction on whether to
continue to pursue the split treatment scheme.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The adoption of the split treatment scheme has the potential to reduce chemical use
without lowering the finished drinking water quality provided to the community . The
reduced chemical usage has the potential to reduce operat ional expenses by more than
$100,000 per year. The reduction in chemical use has the added benefit of lowering the
carbon footprint of the treatment process by reducing the number of delivery truck loads .
Answering the virus loading question as well as identify the potential for any fouling of
equipment at and downstream of the recombined flow is an important next step to
adopting split treatment on a permanent basis. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the
City Manager that the City Council adopt Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
ITEM # __10___
DATE 10-11-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: IOWA HOMELAND SECURITY GRANT PROGRAM AGREEMENT FOR
RADIATION DETECTION EQUIPMENT AND TRAINING
BACKGROUND:
Iowa State University (ISU) Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) provides support
for state agencies in training and ensuring their radiological detection equipment is
properly calibrated and maintained. The Iowa Department of Homeland Security and
Emergency Management (IDHSEM) has received an allocation of federal funds through
the Homeland Security Grant Program, which EH&S wishes to access for replacement of
radiation detectors and training to users. However, the grant program requirements do
not allow ISU to be eligible to receive this grant funding directly.
To address ISU’s ineligibility to receive the funds directly, EH&S has asked the City (which
is an eligible subrecipient) to serve as the fiscal agent for the grant. This approach
complies with program requirements.
The grant award is in the amount of $74,819. No City funds would be expended in
participating in the grant program. The grant would cover the purchase of detection
equipment to replace aging and out-of-calibration equipment, as well as training for users
of the new equipment. As part of the arrangement with EH&S, the Ames Fire Department
would receive two detection units to use in response to radiological incidents. These units
would remain state property but would be on loan for City use at no cost.
To facilitate the grant, the City is required to sign a Memorandum of Agreement
(MOA) with IDHSEM and an acceptance of sub-award document. The documents
must be returned to IDHSEM by Friday, October 14.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Authorize staff to sign the MOA and accept the Sub-Award for this project.
2. Do not authorize staff to participate in this grant, which would prevent ISU EH&S
from obtaining this radiological testing equipment.
3. Refer this item to staff for further information.
2
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
This partnership with ISU Environmental Health and Safety will allow EH&S to access
federal funds for equipment that benefits the ISU and Ames community. No City funding
will be required as part of this grant agreement. Through this equipment upg rade, the
Ames Fire Department will be loaned two new radiological detectors to use as part of the
City’s hazardous materials emergency response efforts.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
ITEM # __11___
DATE: 10-11-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: TIPPING FEES FOR ASH DISPOSAL FOR POWER PLANT–
CHANGE ORDER #1
BACKGROUND:
The City‘s Power Plant has an ash pond where combusted Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF)
residue settles to the bottom. The ash itself is composed of inorganic materials in the fuel
that do not burn and must be removed from the boilers to allow continual operation. Once
deposited in the ash pond, the relatively clean water on the top of the pond can be
recycled to the Power Plant to transport additional ash from the bottom of the boilers.
Over time the ash builds up on the bottom of the pond and reduces the available capacity
of the pond. This ash must be periodically removed via excavating or dredging.
Wulfekuhle Injection & Pumping holds the contract to remove the ash from the pond.
Boone County landfill is the designated landfill for our solid waste planning area, and
therefore would typically be where dredged ash is disposed of. Boone County Landfill
does not want to receive the RDF combustion ash and has instead instructed the City to
haul all ash to Metro East landfill.
The City has a contract with Metro Park East Landfill – Metro Waste Authority in the
amount of $48,850 for the tipping fees associated with ash disposal. At the time this
purchase order was entered into, it was anticipated that much of the ash in the pond
would be able to remain in place rather than being hauled. However, the portion of the
ash pond that was originally intended to store the ash now needs to be cleared to
accommodate the planned modifications to the ash pond that will occur later this
year.
The ash now must be hauled to the landfill more often until all the coal ash is removed
from the active portion of the ash pond. This temporary condition will end once the current
CIP project for the ash pond is complete next summer.
THIS ACTION:
The action being requested is to approve Change Order No. 1 to Metro Park East
Landfill - Metro Waste Authority for an increase in tipping fees. This change order
will add an additional $145,000 to the current contract for FY 2022/23. This will bring
the total contract amount to $193,850.
Change Order No. 1 is needed in response to a need to deposit an increased
amount of materials in the Metro Solid Waste landfill for the remainder of the
current fiscal year.
2
The additional funds for this change order will come from the Power Plant Ash System
account where $135,000 was allocated for non -city services and ash system supplies.
The additional $10,000 will come from the boiler maintenance account.
It should be noted that the increased ash disposal will require additional funds to
be expended to haul the ash to the landfill. The hauling work is addressed in a
separate contract with Wulfekuhle. Staff is evaluating whether to add funds to the
Wulfekuhle contract through a change order, or to bid the increased hauling work
again. In either case, staff will bring an item to the Council at a future meeting to
add funds or award a new contract for the hauling.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve Change Order No. 1 to Metro Waste Authority, Des Moines, IA in the
amount of $145,000 for additional services.
2. Do not approve the requested change order.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The Power Plant needs to remove a substantial amount of ash from the ash pond in order
to complete the Ash Pond modification project. This change order will provide the
necessary funds to address the disposal of the ash; the increased hauling costs will be
addressed in a separate action at a later date.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No.1, as described.
1
ITEM # __12___
DATE: 10-11-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR UNIT 8 PRECIPITATOR
INSULATION AND LAGGING – CHANGE ORDER #2
BACKGROUND:
Unit 8 includes two electrostatic precipitator (ESP) units that remove flue gas particulates
downstream of the Unit 8 boiler. The insulation and lagging on the precipitator units is in
poor condition after years of operation. The lagging is corroded and falling off in some
sections and is now in need of full replacement.
The current exterior flue gas ductwork is corroded and will need to be replaced as well.
This includes the ductwork running between the Unit 8 boiler and the electrostatic
precipitator units, along with the ductwork running between the precipitator units and the
regenerative air heater. In addition, the inlet and outlet ductwork of the Unit 8 ESP has
also deteriorated and requires complete replacement.
In May 2020, the City solicited proposals and selected Black and Veatch to prepare
plans and specifications to replace the insulation and lagging. The original
contract amount was $19,500. A Change Order in the amount of $8,600 was
approved to add additional design services.
Plans and specifications were developed in 2020, but the construction bids were
not immediately solicited because of other priorities in the plant. The project is
now ready to move forward. Due to staff workload and limited experience in this area,
additional engineering services are desired to bid and construct the project. City staff
would like to incorporate additional professional services into the design contract to
respond to questions during bid phase, evaluate the insulating materials to be propo sed
by the contractor; add construction management services; and include biweekly site visits
for two months during construction.
This proposed Change Order No. 2 in an amount not-to-exceed $46,200 for the
following additional engineering services to support the City of Ames Unit 8
Electrostatic Precipitator Insulation and Lagging replacement project.
The change order work will be billed on a time and materials basis, not to exceed $46,200.
Staff intend on performing as much of the on-site inspection as practical to minimize the
need for site visits.
The Capital Improvements Plan includes a project for Power Plant Unit 8 Precipitator
Insulation and lagging. The FY 2022/23 budget includes $2,000,000 for engineering and
construction.
2
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve Change Order No. 2 to Black & Veatch Corporation, Overland Park, KS,
in the amount not-to-exceed $46,200 for additional services.
2. Do not approve the requested change order.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The replacement of the insulation and lagging is a planned project in the current CIP. It
is important to replace the damaged pieces and provide adequate insulation and
protection on the precipitator unit. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City
Manager that the City Council adopt Alternative No.1, as described above.
1
ITEM # __13__
DATE: 10-11-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: ENGINEERING AND RELATED CONSULTING SERVICES NECESSARY
TO COMPLY WITH U.S. EPA’S COAL COMBUSTION RESIDUALS
(CCR) STANDARD - CHANGE ORDER No. 9
BACKGROUND:
On April 17, 2015, a Final Rule entitled “Hazardous and Solid Waste Management
System; Disposal of Coal Combustion Residuals From Electric Utilities” was published in
the Federal Register, which regulated the disposal of ash in surface impoundments and
landfills resulting from the burning of coal in electric utility boilers.
In response to this emphasis by the U.S. EPA on coal ash sites, Ames Electric Services
began looking for a consulting firm that specializes in coal ash site activities, with deep
understanding of the regulations governing coal ash sites, especially the CCR rule .
In 2017, the City needed to comply with several near-term requirements of the CCR rule
adopted by the EPA. For this scope of work, the City issued a request for proposals (RFP)
that resulted in the City receiving nine (9) proposals ranging in price from $30,710 to
$124,350, with an average price of $76,555.33.
SCS Engineers of Clive, Iowa, was selected as the preferred engineering consultant from
the nine proposals for this initial project based upon the combination of technical expertise
and price (SCS’s proposal was the lowest priced). On December 19, 2017, SCS
Engineers was issued a Purchase Order to complete nine (9) studies/reports required to
comply (by April 17, 2018) with the CCR rule. This initial scope of work included:
1) documenting the liner type
2) compiling the history of construction of the site
3) classifying the initial hazard potential
4) assessing the initial structural stability
5) assessing the initial safety factor
6) preparing the initial inflow design flood control system plan
7) preparing the initial written closure plan
8) preparing the initial written post-closure plan
9) preparing an emergency action plan (compliance date of October 16, 2018)
It must be emphasized that the working relationship between Electric Services and
the consulting firm for this work is not like most contractual relationships, with a
defined scope with clear start and end points. The CCR rule has many milestones
to comply with stretching out over many years. Further, the rules keep changing
due to court challenges and actions.
2
CHANGE ORDER HISTORY:
Change Order No. 1, in the amount of $4,415 was to satisfy the CCR rule’s requirement
for a qualified professional engineer to perform an annual inspection (with a report) of the
ash site.
Change Order No. 2, in the amount of $122,780 was to satisfy the requirements of the
CCR rule to install a groundwater well system around the ash site and to subsequently
monitor the site by sampling and analyzing water from the wells in accordance with the
CCR rule.
Change Order No. 3, in the amount of $10,280 for 2018-19 was to update the Fugitive
Dust Control Plan, conduct a site visit and prepare the Annual CCR Fugitive Dust Control
Report, conduct a site visit and prepare the Annual Inspection Report by a qualified
professional engineer,
Change Order No. 4, in the amount of $39,880 was to provide the City of Ames with
feasible alternatives to transition the ash site in its current arrangement into a site that is
useful for the future and in compliance with U.S. EPA’s CCR rule.
Change Order No. 5, in an estimated amount of $196,180 was to provide design and
engineering services along with permit acquisition and bidding support necessary to
comply with U.S. EPA's Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR) rule by closing -in-place a
portion of the City’s Steam Electric Plant’s ash impoundment, and by reconstructing the
remainder of the impoundment to support the power plant’s future ash handling needs.
Change Order No. 6, in an estimated amount of $57,025 for 2019-20 was to sample the
groundwater monitoring wells and prepare the Annual Groundwater and Corrective Action
Report, conduct a site visit and prepare the Annual CCR Fugitive Dust Control Report,
conduct a site visit and prepare the Annual Inspection Report by a qualified professional
engineer, and prepare a report that assesses the site regarding five (5) location
restrictions.
Change Order No. 7 in an estimated amount of $41,585 for 2020-21 was to sample the
groundwater monitoring wells and prepare the Annual Groundwater and Corrective Action
Report, conduct a site visit and prepare the Annual CCR Fugitive Dust Control Report,
conduct a site visit and prepare the Annual Inspection Report by a qualified professional
engineer, and provide a fund for additional engineering and related services.
Change Order No. 8, in an estimated amount of $53,585 for 2021-22 was to sample the
groundwater monitoring wells and prepare the Annual Groundwater and Corrective Action
Report, conduct a site visit and prepare the Annual CCR Fugitive Dust Control Report,
conduct a site visit and prepare the Annual Inspection Report by a qualified professional
engineer, and provide a fund for additional engineering and related services.
3
THIS ACTION:
This change order, Change Order No. 9, for an estimated price of $63,720 to SCS
Engineers of Clive, Iowa, is for consulting engineering services necessary to
comply with the U.S. EPA’s CCR regulation’s annual requirements for 2022-23, plus
several periodic requirements every five years, which are due in the 2022 -23
timeframe. The scope of work of this change order is listed and briefly described
below:
1) Perform semi-annual groundwater sampling of the ash impoundment’s
monitoring wells (2 events),
a. Laboratory testing of groundwater samples
b. Perform additional groundwater sampling if needed and as required by
code (the change order assumes 4 additional sampling events),
2) Prepare the required Annual Groundwater Monitoring and Corrective Action
Report,
3) Annual licensing fee for the software used to perform the required statistical
analysis of the groundwater monitoring results.
4) Prepare the required Annual CCR Fugitive Dust Control Report,
5) Prepare the required Annual Inspection Report by a Qualified Professional
Engineer
a. Inspection of the site by the Qualified Professional Engineer
b. Prepare the Inspection Report
6) Perform the periodic update of the Hazard Potential Classification Assessment
(required every five (5) years)
7) If the Hazard Potential Classification Assessment results in a high hazard
potential classification of the site, an Emergency Action Plan will have to be
developed.
8) Perform the periodic update of the Structural Stability Assessment (required
every five (5) years)
9) Perform the periodic update of the Safety Factor Assessment (required every
five (5) years)
4
10) Perform the periodic update of the Inflow Design Flood Control System Plan
(required every five (5) years)
11) An allowance for additional engineering and related services. (At this time, such
additional services are unknown and uncommitted.)
The Ash Pond Modification Project budget in the CIP has an available balance of
$5,774,162.
It appears that Electric Services will continue to need an engineering firm to assist
with the compliance requirements associated with the coal ash site into the
foreseeable future. However, staff recognizes that it is not sustainable to continue
managing these services through change orders. Therefore, staff expects that this
proposed change order will be the final change order to this contract. In the coming
months, staff will develop an RFP to obtain CCR compliance engineering services
on an annual basis, similar to the manner in which other Power Plant contracts are
structured.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve Change Order No. 9 in the amount of $63,720 to SCS Engineers of
Clive, Iowa, to provide engineering and related services necessary to comply
with U.S. EPA’s CCR regulation’s annual and periodic five-year requirements
pertaining to the City of Ames Steam Electric Plant’s ash site.
2. Reject the proposal and solicit equivalent engineering services from another
engineering firm.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
This scope of work is necessary for the City of Ames Steam Electric Plant to continue to
function and be in compliance with U.S. EPA’s CCR rule. Staff expects this to be the final
change order this this contract. In the future, these services will be bid and awarded on
an annual basis with the potential for predictable renewals.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the Cit y Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
ITEM # 14
DATE: 10/11/22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: AWARD CONTRACT TO PURCHASE TRANSFORMERS
FOR ELECTRIC SERVICES DEPARTMENT
BACKGROUND:
This contract is for the purchase of transformers necessary to meet the anticipated needs of
the Electric Services Department. These transformers are kept on hand in order to ensure
availability which will enable staff to replace failed transformers quickly. Typically, these
transformers are used to provide service for commercial and residential applications. It is
also necessary to meet the anticipated needs of the Electric Services Department for new
service and maintenance activities.
Lead times have become a challenge for many vendors of critical electric inventory
components, due to supply chain issues. To address the Electric Department’s need for
transformers in the future, staff issued a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for a one-time purchase
of specifically requested transformers. On September 1, 2022, an RFQ document was issued
to 134 companies. The RFQ was advertised on the Ames Bids website. On September 15,
2022, one bid was received as shown below:
BIDDER BID AMOUNT
Rural Electric Supply Cooperative (RESCO)
Ankeny, Iowa
$133,097.09
*Price inclusive of 6% State of Iowa Sales Taxes Plus 1% Local Tax
RESCO has indicated that the delivery time for the requested transformers is 52 weeks.
Staff evaluated the proposed cost and specifications of the transformers to be
supplied. RESCO’s bid for 50 overhead transformers of various kVA and voltage totaled
$133,097.09. RESCO has also stated that all pricing is under an escalation/de-
escalation clause based on material pricing at the time of shipment. RESCO
anticipates a cost increase of approximately 16.71% more than the price quoted based on
the ERMCO (manufacturer) material price index due to volatility in the market on transformer
prices.
Included in the bid were six pad mount transformers, but RESCO did not bid on these due to
availability. ERMCO, RESCO’s partner manufacturer, is not accepting new orders for this
style of transformer for 2023 and has not yet opened 2024 production slots. Staff will likely,
rebid these transformers and look at purchasing refurbished units.
Although the overhead transformers would not be delivered for 52 weeks under this
contract and the cost is substantially higher than historical pricing, staff believes the
lack of available transformers from any source makes it prudent to award the contract
2
to RESCO, Ankeny, Iowa, in order to move the purchasing process forward.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Award a contract to RESCO, Ankeny, Iowa, for the one -time purchase of Electric
Services overhead transformers in the amount of $133,097.09. Payments will be
based on unit prices and quantities ordered inclusive of applicable sales taxes.
2. Reject the bid and decline to purchase overhead transformers on a contract basis.
Staff will attempt to purchase transformers individually as needs arise.
With this alternative, staff is not confident that supplies of new transformers
will be successfully obtained in an acceptable timeframe.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Transformers are a critical component to provide reliable electric service to customers of the
Ames Municipal Electric System. It is important to purchase transformers at the lowest
possible cost with minimal risk to the City. It is also imperative to have transformers available
to meet customer needs in the short-term as well as the long-term. Therefore, it is the
recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt Alternative No. 1, as
described above.
1
ITEM # __15___
DATE: 10-11-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: LIMBLE SOLUTIONS LLC COMPUTERIZED MAINTENANCE
MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE FOR POWER PLANT
BACKGROUND:
The Power Plant uses a Computerized Maintenance Management Software (CMMS)
system which tracks asset health, maintenance records, work orders, and inventory. It
is crucial to have an up-to-date system to assure power plant reliability and efficiency.
Limble Solutions LLC is currently the provider for the cloud-based CMMS that the
Power Plant uses.
In 2019, City staff sought proposals from companies for both software-as-a-service
(SAAS) and purchased software solutions to replace the existing system. On August 27,
2019, City Council awarded a three-year agreement to Limble CMMS, Lehi, Utah. This
product has allowed all plant employees to have easy, mobile access to all inventory,
parts, work requests, and preventative maintenance tasks. The cloud -based system
also allows software updates to be administered automatically, meaning the Power
Plant continues to have the most up-to-date version. Besides access to the software,
the annual price covers set up, maintenance fees, data backup, and instant custom er
support. The Limble system has proven to have good inventory management, work
order capabilities, plant status quick view, usability, and scheduling abilities.
Plant staff performed a large amount of research before implementing Limble CMMS,
finding it was the best CMMS to use at the power plant considering price and
performance. Staff went through a considerable amount of effort changing from the
previous CMMS to the Limble system and this same amount of effort would be needed
if the decision was made to separate from Limble and go with another provider.
Staff is requesting that the City Council waive the City’s purchasing policies
requiring formal competitive bids and award a second three-year agreement to
Limble CMMS, Lehi, Utah in the amount of $88,200.
The City Council is being asked to approve a three-year agreement at this time,
rather than a one-year contract with renewal options. It should be noted that this
contract includes a preferred Partner Discount of 20% and a discount of 10%
because it is for three years. The City will pay $29,400 annually.
The FY 2022/23 Power Plant maintenance budget includes $27,000 for the software
service. The additional $2,400 will come from the Maintenance Training account.
2
ALTERNATIVES:
1. A. Waive the Purchasing Policies and Procedures requirement for competitive
bids.
B. Award a three-year contract for Computerized Maintenance Management
Software to Limble CMMS, Lehi, Utah in the amount of $88,200.00
2. Award a one-year contract with renewal options for Computerized Maintenance
Management Software to Limble CMMS, Lehi, Utah in the amount of $33,600.00
3. Do not approve the contract and adopt a “pay as you go” approach for these
needed services.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Limble CMMS has proven itself as an essential tool in the Power Plant’s maintenance
program. Pricing for the three-year contract is comparable to the previous contract . The
continuation of Limble CMMS assures the use of a versatile product that assists plant
staff in managing the facility and equipment to achieve reliability and efficiency.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1 A-B, as stated above.
1
ITEM # _ 16___
DATE: 10-11-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR BLACKSTART LOAD BANK TESTING
BACKGROUND:
GT1 is a combustion turbine placed into service by the City in 1972. This unit is used to
provide additional peaking capacity to the City’s electric utility and can be started on
relatively short notice in response to emergency conditions. GT1, GT2, and the utility’s
two power boilers all require a source of electricity prior to starting; electricity is needed
to operate controls, motors, fans, pumps, and other components prior to the unit
producing energy to send to the power grid.
Normally, the source of electricity to start a generating unit is a connection to the regional
electric grid. However, GT1 was designed to be capable of starting in blackout situations
without using any power from the surrounding grid. The ability to conduct a “black start”
is critical in situations where all the connections to the electric grid are damaged, as
experienced in the 2020 derecho.
GT1’s ability to conduct a black start was lost after a controls upgrade in 2009. The current
Capital Improvements Plan includes a project to restore black start capability to GT1 to
improve the reliability of the City electric system. Controls tuning and upgrades,
completed in March, brought black start capability back. However, the unit needs to be
tested.
Load bank testing is a procedure that isolates a generating unit from the electric system
and tests the unit’s ability to respond to power demands. The power demand is created
by equipment that creates a significant electrical demand by converting the energy to
heat. This testing is typically performed on combustion turbines every 2-5 years, after
major maintenance projects, and after control system upgrades. Load bank testing has
never been done on GT1 and with the restoration of black start capabilities, testing should
be completed.
Staff solicited proposals for load bank testing and o n September 28, 2022, one proposal
was received from Sunbelt Rentals, Inc. of Broomfield, CO in the amount of $76,911.87.
Staff has reviewed the proposal and has found it suitable. The Capital Improvements Plan
includes a project for Critical Electric System Generators. The FY 2022/23 budget
includes $200,000 for these services.
2
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Award a contract to Sunbelt Rentals, Inc., Broomfield, CO, for the GT1 Blackstart
Load Bank Testing project in the amount of $76,911.87.
2. Reject the proposal from Sunbelt Rentals, Inc. and issue another request for
proposals.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Load bank testing is the final step in restoring the black start capabilities of GT1 and is a
planned project in the current CIP. It is important to decreasing the length of city-wide
electrical outages and increasing the reliability of the City’s electric system. Therefore, it
is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt Alternative #1 as,
described above.
1
ITEM # ___17__
DATE: 10-11-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: RDF BIN TAPERED BUSHING REDUCER FOR ELECTRIC SERVICES
BACKGROUND:
Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) produced by the Resource Recovery Plant is stored in the
RDF bin, where it is then conveyed into the Power Plant for combustion in one of the
plant’s two boilers. The bin is divided into two sides, with augers in each, to allow one
side of the bin to be emptied while the other side is being repaired or filled.
A large 50 HP motor provides the energy to operate the augers. Each of the two augers
has a large reducer attached to it, where the input power from the motor is converted to
the appropriate speed and torque to drive the augers. The reducers are very large, and
the lead time to procure a reducer is very long. The Power Plant does not have currently
have a spare reducer in inventory. Therefore, if one of the reducers suffers a breakdown,
one side of the bin could be unusable for several months.
To prevent delays, staff has solicited quotes for a reducer to place in inventory. Quotes
were obtained from three companies:
VENDOR QUOTE TAX TOTAL LEAD TIME
APEX Industrial Automation LLC,
Romeoville, IL $55,241.38 $3,866.90 $59,108.28 14-16 weeks
Motion Industries, Ankeny, IA $55,578.01 $3,890.46 $59,468.47 14-15 weeks
Applied Industrial Technologies,
Des Moines, IA $59,803.67 $4,186.26 $63,989.93 8 weeks
The apparent low quote is from a company the Power Plant staff is not familiar with. The
next lowest quote, at a total cost of $360.19 higher than the low quote, is from Motion
Industries, a company the Power Plant works with on a weekly basis. Staff has found
Motion Industries to be very reliable and provide good quality parts . Considering the
working relationship that the plant has with Motion Industries and the price difference
being less than 1%, staff has determined it would be in the City’s best interest to order
the tapered bushing reducer from Motion Industries.
The FY 2022/23 Electric Production budget includes $90,000 for RDF Bin Equipment
Parts/Supplies.
2
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Award a contract for the tapered bushing reducer to Motion Industries, Ankeny,
IA in the amount of $59,468.47 (inclusive of Iowa Sales Tax).
2. Award a contract to the apparent low quote from APEX Industrial Automation
LLC, Romeoville, IL in the amount of $59,108.28 (inclusive of Iowa Sales Tax).
3. Award to another vendor.
4. Reject quotes and direct staff to bid the reducer.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
This reducer is a critical part within the waste-to-energy system at the power plant. If
either of the current reducers fail, the system’s capacity will be substantially reduced,
resulting in weeks-long diversions of solid waste to the landfill.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as stated above.
515.239.5101 main
515.239.5142 fax
515 Clark Ave.
Ames, IA 50010
www.CityofAmes.org
City Clerk’s Office
MEMO
To: Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: City Clerk’s Office
Date: October 7, 2022
Subject: Contract and Bond Approval
There is no Council Action Form for Item No. 18. Council approval of the
contract and bond for this project is simply fulfilling a State Code requirement.
/cmw
Item No. 18
ITEM # 19
DATE: 10-11-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: 2021/22 SHARED USE PATH SYSTEM EXPANSION – IOWAY CREEK
BACKGROUND:
This program provides for the construction of shared -use paths on street rights-of-way,
adjacent to streets, and through greenbelts. The Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP)
identifies those paths that separate bicycle traffic from higher -speed automobile traffic.
This project is to construct a shared use path along Ioway Creek from S. 5th
Street to 0.5 miles east of S. Duff Ave, as shown in the attachment .
On September 20, 2022, bids for the project were received as follows:
Bidder Bid Amount DBE %
Engineer's Estimate $918,210.35 3%
ConStruct, Inc. $979,078.42 1.04%
Jasper Construction Services, Inc. $1,157,505.20 3.00%
Howrey Construction, Inc. $1,210,557.75 3.02%
On September 27, 2022, City Council accepted the report of bids for this project.
Due to the ongoing DOT Good Faith Effort review of the low bidder’s Disadvantaged
Business Enterprise (DBE) goal, staff requested that the City Council delay the award of
bids to provide time for a final DOT decision to be made. The DOT has formally
considered the low bidder non-responsive due to not meeting the DBE goal.
The table below shows the revenues and updated expenses for this project reflecting
the lowest responsive bid, which is Jasper Construction Services :
Revenues Expenses
Local Option Sales Tax $521,800
AAMPO TAP Funds (80% of Construction, up to $560k) $560,000 Local Option Sales Tax (Savings from 2020/21 SUP -
Vet Med Trail) $100,000 Construction (Lowest Responsive Bidder) $1,157,505.20
Engineering and Administration (Estimated) $175,000.00
$1,181,800 $1,332,505.20
The estimate of expenses exceeds the available revenue by over $150,000. In
reviewing the bids, staff believes that making some plan modifications and
rebidding the project is the appropriate path forward.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. a. Approve the final plans and specifications for this project.
b. Reject the 2021/22 Shared Use Path System Expansion – Ioway Creek bids.
c. Direct staff to re-bid the project through a future Iowa DOT bid letting.
2. a. Approve the final plans and specifications for this project.
b. Award the project to Jasper Construction Services, Inc. of Newton, IA in the
amount of $1,157,505.20.
c. Direct staff to find additional funding to cover the revenue shortfall.
3. Do not proceed with the project.
MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Given the discrepancy between the non -responsive bid and the lowest responsive bid,
staff believes rebidding the project will result in the lowest construction prices.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
CARDINAL RD
CREEKSIDE DR
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D
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F
F
A
V
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FREEL DR
S MAPLE AVE
S WALNUT AVE
Access to city wells
BUCKEYE AVE
S SHERMAN AVE
GOLDEN ASPEN DR
CHERRY AVE
S BORNE AVE
ITEM: _ 20_ _
DATE: 10-11-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: 2021/22 SANITARY SEWER REHABILITATION DESIGN – (AMES HIGH
SCHOOL AND VEENKER GOLF)
BACKGROUND:
The Ames High School & Veenker Rehabilitation Project is a high priority project for our
Sanitary Sewer System. The proposed project will repair trunklines that are part of the
main Clear Creek Interceptor line that serves much of the existing city as well as growth
areas identified in the 2040 Ames Plan, including Dankbar/Meunch, and West Lincoln
Way. Reliable sanitary sewer capacity is critical to support the existing City users and
these future developments.
The existing sanitary pipes in these areas have moderate to severe defects including
some voids, cracks, fractures, and root intrusions that partially block flow. A section of
this trunk line had emergency repairs in 2018 to fix a collapsed pipe due to streambank
washout. These pipes are located near Ames High School in the Pohl Prairie State
Preserve, in Veenker Golf Course, and in Pammel Woods. Due to sensitive nature of
these surrounding areas, it is best to prevent emergency repairs and major
excavations. The proposed project will repair the defects using trenchless
technologies (CIPP, etc) and contractors will be directed to a pre-identified access
route to limit impact during construction.
On February 23, 2021, a professional services agreement contract with WHKS of Ames,
Iowa was approved in the amount not to exceed $222,000 for design of 2021/22 Sanitary
Sewer Rehabilitation (Ames High School and Veenker Golf). This is the eighth
rehabilitation project and was selected to have an immediate impact by removing
infiltration and inflow (I/I) in sewer mains that are older and installed with non-
sealed joints, the industry standard at the time. By eliminating I/I in these mains,
the sanitary sewer system will regain needed capacity.
On September 21, 2022, bids for the project were received as follows:
Bidder Base Bid
Amount
Engineer’s estimate $2,140,000.00
Municipal Pipe Tool Co. LLC $3,791,558.69
Visu – Sewer, Inc. $3,910,319.50
Staff reviewed the bids and identified two items significantly higher than expected:
1) Bypass pumping was the most significant where its unit bid price was $990,000
compared to the engineer’s cost opinion of $30,000. Both bids received from Municipal
Pipe Tool and Visu-Sewer were in the $990,000 range. Staff contacted both bidders
about the bypass pumping bids. The y stated that the condition of the lines would
require dewatering to remove roots and debris as part of the preparatory work
prior to lining and again during lining and that the duration of that bypassing
could be several months. So, although the working time limits are generally late fall
and winter months when low flows are typical, both bidders thought it would be prudent
to plan on late winter melt or other high flow event and planned the bypassing
accordingly.
The breakdown of the bypass pumping cost was approximately $400,000 pump
rental and remaining $600,000 was driven by labor and fuel costs to run the
bypass pumps. Bidders were asked if bypass pumping costs could be brought
down by rebidding at a later date. They indicated possible savings of only up to
$100,000 may be gained in bidding later, but in general the magnitude of this bid
item will not change by rebidding it.
2) The second bid item that was significantly higher was site access. All three of the
project areas are sensitive and protected areas with difficult terrain and
topography to bring in the necessary repair equipment. Staff worked with ISU
and IDNR during design to identify the access routes that would be acceptable
to the property owners. The project requires contractors to protect these areas
and to restore to equal or better condition after the project is completed. The
low bid unit price was $241,000 compared to engineer’s cost opinion of $25,000.
Access during frozen conditions and using drive-over mats to protect the golf
course and prairie areas is the major cost driver of this item.
Revenues and expenses associated with this program are estimated as follows:
Revenue Expenses
2021/22 State Revolving Fund
2021/22 Sewer Utility Fund
$ 3,922,000
$ 350,000 2021/22 Sanitary Sewer Rehab $3,791,558.69
Engineering/Administration (Est.) $ 222,000.00
$ 4,272,000 $4,013,558.69
ALTERNATIVES:
1. a. Accept the report of bids for the 2021/22 Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation – (Ames
High School and Veenker Golf) project.
b. Approve the final plans and specifications for this project.
c. Award the 2021/22 Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation – (Ames High School and
Veenker Golf) project. to Municipal Pipe Tool Co. LLC of Hudson, Iowa in the amount
of $3,791,558.69.
2. Award the contract to one of the other bidders.
3. Do not proceed with this project.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
This project advances City Council’s commitment to improve the sanitary sewer system.
This is the eighth of several large projects that will have an immediate impact by removing
inflow & infiltration to regain valuable capacity in the City’s existing sanitary sewer system.
Two items were found to be significantly higher than expected. Discussions with
the contractors found that the prices bid for these items were actually in -line with
the requirements and duration of work necessary for the project and protecting
environmentally sensitive areas. Rebidding would not have any significant impact
on lowering these costs.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
ITEM # 21___
VAFDATE: 10-11-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: FEDELER LINCOLN WAY SUBDIVISION, MINOR FINAL PLAT FOR
2108 E LINCOLN WAY
BACKGROUND:
H & B Properties, LLC (William Fedeler) is requesting approval of a Minor Subdivision
Final Plat of 5.86 acres at 2108 E Lincoln Way for Fedeler Lincoln Way Subdivision. The
subdivision creates two lots (Lot ‘1’ & Lot ‘2’) in the General Industrial (GI) Zoning District.
A Minor Subdivision includes three, or fewer, lots and does not require additional public
improvements other than sidewalks and/or bike paths. No sidewalk or bike path is
required along this property’s frontage.
A Minor Subdivision does not require a Preliminary Plat and may be approved by the City
Council as a Final Plat only, subject to the applicant completing the necessary
requirements. Following City Council approval, the Final Plat must then be recorded with
the County Recorder to become an officially recognized subdivision plat.
The proposed Final Plat divides the existing 5.86 acres into Lot ‘1’ consisting of
2.40 acres and Lot ‘2’ consisting of 3.46 acres. Both Lot ‘1’ and ‘2’ will each have
access off of E Lincoln Way frontage road. The proposed subdivision creates a new flag
lot (Lot ‘2’) with a 25-foot access to E. Lincoln Way. Lot ‘2’ will require a paved approach
for the driveway. A 5-foot pedestrian easement is included immediately adjacent to the
flag lot on the west side of Lot ‘1’. This is a requirement that was adopted with the
allowance for reduced 25-ft. width flag lots in the General Industrial Zoning District that
occurred earlier this year.
The Minor Subdivision Final Plat must meet Zoning requirements for the occupancy and
use of its site as well as meeting the Subdivision requirements of Chapter 23. As a result,
both lots were evaluated to determine that they are in full compliance with the
requirements of the Zoning Ordinance, the General Industrial (GI) Zoning District, and the
Subdivision Ordinance.
Lot ‘1’ complies with the GI setback requirements for the existing building and the existing
outdoor storage area. Lot ‘1’ also complies with the lot coverage requirements for outdoor
storage. Lot ‘2’ (new flag lot) is proposed for use as outdoor storage and will be subject
to the requirements of Sec. 29.405 for setbacks and maximum lot coverage. Lot ‘2’ will
have limited utility due to its dimensions and limited access.
2
Public utilities currently serve Lot 1 and can be extended to Lot ‘2’. No utility extensions
are proposed for Lot ‘2’, as the use of outdoor storage can proceed without any utility
service being connected. Should a building be proposed sometime in the future, public
water service for fire protection will be required.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. The City Council can approve the Final Plat of Fedeler Lincoln Way Subdivision based
upon the findings and conclusions stated above.
2. The City Council can deny the Final Plat of Fedeler Lincoln Way Subdivision if the
Council finds that the proposed subdivision does not comply with applicable
ordinances, standards or plans.
3. The City Council can refer this request back to staff or the applicant for additional
information.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
After reviewing the proposed Final Plat of Fedeler Lincoln Way Subdivision, Staff finds
that it complies with all relevant and applicable design and improvement standards of the
Subdivision Regulations, to the Ames Plan 2040, to other adopted City plans, ordinances
and standards, and to the City’s Zoning Ordinance.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council
approve Alternative #1, as noted above.
3
Attachment A – Location Map
4
Attachment B – Final Plat of Fedeler Lincoln Way Subdivision
5
6
Attachment C – Applicable Laws and Policies
Pertaining to Final Plat Approval
Adopted laws and policies applicable to this case file include, but are not limited to, the
following:
Code of Iowa, Chapter 354.8 states in part:
A proposed subdivision plat lying within the jurisdiction of a governing body shall be
submitted to that governing body for review and approval prior to recording.
Governing bodies shall apply reasonable standards and conditions in accordance
with applicable statutes and ordinances for the review and approval of subdivisions.
The governing body, within sixty days of application for final approval of the
subdivision plat, shall determine whether the subdivision conforms to its
comprehensive plan and shall give consideration to the possible burden on public
improvements and to a balance of interests between the proprietor, future
purchasers, and the public interest in the subdivision when reviewing the proposed
subdivision and when requiring the installation of public improvements in
conjunction with approval of a subdivision. The governing body shall not issue final
approval of a subdivision plat unless the subdivision plat conforms to sections
354.6, 354.11, and 355.8.
Ames Municipal Code Section 23.303(3) states as follows:
(3) City Council Action on Final Plat for Minor Subdivision:
(a) All proposed subdivision plats shall be submitted to the City Council for review
and approval in accordance with Section 354.8 of the Iowa Code, as amended or
superseded. Upon receipt of any Final Plat forwarded to it for review and approval,
the City Council shall examine the Application Form, the Final Plat, any comments,
recommendations or reports examined or made by the Department of Planning
and Housing, and such other information as it deems necessary or reasonable to
consider.
(b) Based upon such examination, the City Council shall ascertain whether the
Final Plat conforms to relevant and applicable design and improvement standards
in these Regulations, to other City ordinances and standards, to the City's Land
Use Policy Plan and to the City's other duly adopted plans. If the City Council
determines that the proposed subdivision will require the installation or upgrade of
any public improvements to provide adequate facilities and services to any lot in
the proposed subdivision or to maintain adequate facilities and services to any
other lot, parcel or tract, the City Council shall deny the Application for Final Plat
Approval of a Minor Subdivision and require the Applicant to file a Preliminary Plat
for Major Subdivision.
ITEM # ___22___
DATE 10-11-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: WATER TREATMENT PLANT REMOTE SITE RADIO AND PLC
UPGRADES FINAL COMPLETION
BACKGROUND:
A Wellhead Rehabilitation CIP Project was originally authorized by Council in FY 2018/19
($370,000), and additional funds were added in the FY 2019/20 CIP ($50,000). The FY
2018/19 work replaced the controls and power line communications (PLCs) in seven wells
and repainted the wellheads of ten wells. The FY 2019/20 work replaced radio antennas
on five wells that were experiencing episodic communication failures. When completed,
those two projects had unspent contingency funds in the combined amount of $84,316.
Those remaining funds were utilized to add another phase of work to replace additional
radios and PLCs, eliminating equipment that was no longer supported by the
manufacturer and standardizing the inventory of PLCs. On February 19, 2021, City staff
awarded a contract to Jetco, Inc. in the amount of $45,340 for the Water Treatment Plant
Remote Site Radio and PLC Upgrades.
As the project progressed there were two change orders. Change Order No. 1 in the
amount of $1,215 was authorized by staff to provide and install two analog output
modules. Change Order No. 2 included several additional pieces of failing or obsolete
equipment that were identified during the execution of the project. Change Order No. 2
was approved by City Council in the amount of $35,879 on November 9, 2021. A summary
is detailed below.
Original Contract Amount $45,340
Change Order No. 1 1,215
Change Order No. 2 35,879
Revised Contract Amount $82,434
When Council authorized Change Order No. 2, it also authorized the transfer of $13,128
in unspent funds from the FY 2020/21 Automatic Meter Reading CIP Project. With those
additional funds, the total authorized funding for this specific project is $97,444.
All work on Jetco’s contract has been completed, and the work is ready for final
acceptance.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Accept final completion of Water Treatment Plant Remote Site Radio and PLC
Upgrades Project and authorize final payment, in accordance with the contract, to
Jetco, Inc.
2. Do not accept completion of the project at this time.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
All work for this project has been completed in accordance with the plans and
specifications. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City
Council adopt Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
ITEM # __23___
DATE: 10-11-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: ACCEPTANCE OF COMPLETION – ELECTRIC SERVICES
TRANSMISSION MODIFICATIONS AT SE 16TH ST & S. DUFF AVE
INTERSECTION
BACKGROUND:
On September 28, 2021, City Council awarded a contract in the amount of $529,140.38
to IES Commercial, Holdredge, NE, for Transmission Modifications at SE 16th Street and
S. Duff Avenue intersection.
This project was for the construction and relocation of approximately 2 ,300 feet of 69
kilovolt (kV) overhead transmission and 13.8 kV overhead distribution line modifications
at the intersection of SE 16th St and S. Duff Ave. These lines had to be moved to clear
the way for the Public Works CIP project widening the intersection of SE 16th Street and
S. Duff Avenue.
The work included in the contract with IES Commercial has now been completed. A
certification of completion from the project engineer at DeWild Grant Reckert &
Associates Co. is attached. Three change orders were approved related to this contract:
Change Order No. 1: In the amount of $0 was performed to extend the project
completion date from July 1, 2022 to July 8, 2022.
Change Order No. 2: In the amount of $0 was performed to extend the project
completion date from July 8, 2022 to August 1, 2022.
Change Order No. 3: A deduction for the value of unperformed construction work
in the amount of $87,392.26. This change order was approved by City Council on
August 23, 2022 and resulted from delays caused by other utilities interfering with
the ability of IES Commercial from completing the work specified in the contract.
The uncompleted work will be completed by Ames Electric Services crews at a
later time.
Inclusive of the Change Orders, the final contract amount is $441,748.12.
$529,140.38 Original Contract Amount
- $ 87,392.26 Change Orders No. 1-3
$441,748.12 Final Contract Amount
2
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Accept completion of the contract for the Transmission Modifications at SE 16th St
& S. Duff Ave by IES Commercial, Holdredge, NE, in the amount of $441,748.12,
and make final payment to the contractor.
2. Delay acceptance of completion of this project.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The contractor for the Transmission Modifications at SE 16th St & S. Duff Ave has
completed the work under the contract. The project engineer has issued a certificate of
completion on the work, and the City is legally required to make final payment to the
contractor.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
The image part with relationship ID rId8 was not found in the file.
40th Annual Report
Ames Residential
Satisfaction Survey
2022
Item No. 24
2022 Ames Residential Satisfaction Survey
2022 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 40TH ANNUAL STATISTICAL REPORT The City of Ames, Iowa, conducts an annual satisfaction survey of residents. In April 2022, the City mailed questionnaires to 1,350 city residents whose names were randomly selected from the City of Ames utility users list (population=~20,000+). Additionally, 1,000 Iowa State University students were randomly selected from a mailing list generated by the ISU Office of the Registrar. Stratified random sampling was used to have representation from the students based on classification (sophomore to graduate levels). First-year students were intentionally excluded in the ISU sample due to their minimal exposure and use of City of Ames’ services. Utility bill customers received a 12-page survey booklet via U.S. Mail. The booklet included the same standard benchmarking questions as were presented in the 2021 survey along with two new sections about recycling and meaningful Diversity, Equity and Inclusion changes. The survey was also available online. A link to the survey was provided in the letter of introduction that was mailed out with the paper version of the survey. This ensures that only randomly selected respondents have access to the survey link. The online survey was available in five languages: English, Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, and Korean. The ISU students received the same online survey via email developed using the Qualtrics Survey Software. The analysis was completed with assistance from Nora Ladjahasan, Amy Logan, and Nafisa Anjum from Institute for Design Research & Outreach, College of Design, Iowa State University. This statistical report summarizes results from 392 respondents who returned usable questionnaires, 196 came from Ames utility bill customers, referred as non-student residents in this report, (50%) and another 196 from ISU students (50%). Twenty-two (11%) non-student residents did the online survey. Only one respondent used the Chinese version of the online survey, and the rest used the English version. Only 196 surveys from the students were included in the analysis to have an equal representation as the non-student residents. Incomplete surveys and those who had lived in Ames for a shorter period of time were excluded from student samples. Response rate for Ames residents’ group (non-student residents) was 14% and 34% for ISU students. Overall response rate for this year is 23%, which is 13% lower than last year (36%). The number of questionnaires mailed or emailed included an oversampling of students in order to come up with the desired sample size that reflects target populations. The sample size needed to confidently generalize the findings was 331 for both groups (95% confidence level and a confidence interval of 5). The 392 completed surveys indicate that we are 95% confident that the questions are within +/-4.52% of the results if everybody participated in the study. In other words, the findings or the data significantly reflect the responses of the total population. For more details on calculating sample size, refer to: https://www.checkmarket.com/sample- size-calculator/.
2022 Ames Residential Satisfaction Survey
Respondents’ Personal and Social Characteristics
Table 1 illustrates the personal and social characteristics of respondents who completed the questionnaire. Column 1 lists characteristics of the respondents who participated in the survey. Column 2 shows personal and social characteristics of Ames residents collected from secondary data sources such as census and world population review, etc. Columns 3-7 show personal and social characteristics of individuals who completed surveys between the years of 2018 and 2022. Of the respondents in this year’s survey, there are more female respondents than male (55% and 42%, respectively). This follows a trend, 3 of the past 4 years also had more female participation in the survey. Two percent of the respondents opted not to respond to the gender question and another 1% indicated the third category (non-binary/3rd gender). Male respondents are lower than the census stats (54%). A majority of respondents were White (87%), 6% were Asian, 3% stated “other,” 1% Black or African American, and 3% preferred not to answer. There were some minor shifts in racial composition from 2021 survey, there was a 3% increase in White respondents but 6% decrease in Asian respondents. The survey also asked respondents if they identify as having Hispanic or Latino heritage. Six percent of respondents preferred not to answer the question on whether they are of Hispanic or Latino heritage. Of those responding to the survey question, only 6% indicated they are of Hispanic or Latino heritage. A majority (94%) were not. Educational attainment was another demographic characteristic requested in the survey. Fifty-two percent of the respondents have some college credits and/or college degree, which is 3% lower than the 2021 secondary data estimate https://worldpopulationreview.com/us-cities/ames-ia-population. Sixty-six of the respondents are employed (36% had full-time employment, 30% part-time). Twenty-three percent were retirees which is higher than last year (18%). Ten percent declared that they were unemployed (a little bit higher than the July 2022 labor dep department estimate of 7%, (https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/metro.pdf).Forty-two percent of respondents reported their household income to be less than $25,000, 16% reported their income to be between $25,000 and $49,999, 20% reported earnings of $50,000 to $99,999, and another 21% of respondents make more than $100,000 annually. Compared to last year’s survey, there were more respondents with a household income of $100,000+ (21% for 2022, 18% for 2021) and less than July 2021 estimated rate of 23% (https://worldpopulationreview.com/us-cities/ames-ia-population).
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Table 1. Demographic Characteristics Characteristic July 2021 nd Survey Year 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Less than 1 year 1-3 years 4-6 years 7-10 years More than 10 years
- 1
Non-binary/3rd Gender 1
30 25 30 20 30 30
59 27 31 35 35 30
* https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/amescityiowa# **https://worldpopulationreview.com/us-cities/ames-ia-population (2022)
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Less than half of the survey respondents (47%) own their residence, the others rent. Most renters (79%) reported renting due to their short-term stay in Ames. Other reasons for renting were lack of adequate income (44%), followed by little or no upkeep (26%), and more security (7%) (Table 2). Respondents who are homeowners differ from renters on several personal and social characteristics. Homeowners have lived in Ames longer than renters (25.5 years and 5.0 years, respectively). Of those who have lived in Ames more than 10 years, 90% are homeowners. On the other hand, 86% of the renters have lived in Ames for less than 4 years. Not surprisingly, the average age of respondents who are homeowners (58 years old) tends to be older than renters (26 years old). Of those between 25 and 44 years old, more than half (59%) are renters. Of those between the ages of 45 to 64, almost nine in 10 (89%) are homeowners. In contrast, 95% of those under 25 years of age are renters, and 91% of full-time college students currently rent. For those with a college degree and higher, 45% are homeowners and 55% are renters. Finally, homeowners typically have higher household incomes than renters. Eighty-four percent of homeowners earn $50,000 or more, whereas only 16% of the renters earn more than $50,000. (Figures from this paragraph are not shown in any tables.)
Table 2. Housing characteristics Characteristics
2021* 2nd Data 2018 2019 2020 Percent 2021 2022
* https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/amescityiowa#
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Respondents also were asked to identify the location of their home in Ames, as seen on Figure 1 below. Forty percent of the respondents reside at the northwest part of the city (compared to 46% in 2021), 34% are from southwest (29% in 2021), 11% from northeast (14% in 2021), and 15% from southeast side (11% in 2021). (Figure 1) There are more respondents from southwest and southeast parts of the town compared to last year and less from northeast and southwest parts.
Figure 1. Geographic Sections
40% = Northwest 34% = Southwest 11% =Northeast 15% = Southeast
Priorities for On-Going Services Respondents were asked to indicate their priorities for the upcoming City budget by indicating allocation levels (less, same, or more) on various services paid for by property or sales taxes. Budgeted funding amounts for each of the services were indicated. Table 3 shows the residents’ preference about spending priorities. Most respondents reported that they would like the City of Ames to spend the same amount as the previous year for all 10 service priorities. On a scale of 1 to 3 (1 – less spending, 2 – same spending, and 3 – more spending), all the programs received an average score of 2.0 or higher. The programs receiving the lowest average scores included Ames Public Library (2.0) and Law enforcement (2.0). Programs that received the highest ratings for spending reduction were Law enforcement (24.9%), Arts programs (Public Art & COTA) (19.4%), and Ames Public Library (12.1%). The “Other” category of on-going services ranked highest for receiving additional funding with 36.2% of respondents indicating they would like to see more money spent on their mentioned items. Additionally, 32.3% of respondents wanted more spending on human service agency funding (ASSET), followed by 26.4% on Ames Animal Shelter & Animal Control and 25.4% on recreational opportunities. These findings are in Table 3.
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Table 3. On-going service priorities
Should the city spend?... Less (1) Same (2) More (3) Average Human service agency funding (ASSET). ($1,729,180) (n=372) 6.7 61.0 32.3 2.3 Ames Animal Shelter & animal control ($564,900) (n=371) 6.7 66.8 26.4 2.2 CyRide (public transit) ($2,078,474) (n=372 4.3 71.8 23.9 2.2 Parks activities ($1,650,040) (n=373) 7.5 67.6 24.9 2.2 Recreational opportunities ($2,279,477) (n=374 9.9 64.7 25.4 2.2 Land use planning (both current and long-term) ($963,914) (n=374) 10.4 68.7 20.9 2.1 Fire protection. ($8,295,077) (n=375) 4.3 83.5 12.3 2.1 Arts programs (Public Art & COTA) ($262,470) (n=371) 19.4 55.8 24.8 2.1 Ames Public Library ($5,030,797) (n=373) 12.1 71.0 16.9 2.0 Law enforcement ($10,953,098) (n=374) 24.9 52.1 23.0 2.0 Other (n=47) 6.4 57.4 36.2 2.3
“Other” Suggestions for On-Going Services Respondents were asked for additional comments regarding priorities for on-going services. The respondents mentioned a variety of topics. The respondents frequently mentioned road improvement and streetlights, recreational amenities, transportation (CyRide and rental bikes), and climate change mitigation. Many respondents further prioritized developing more biking paths for residents. Other commonly mentioned issues include mixed-use promotion, animal shelters, disinvestment in law enforcement, public mental health services, crisis management, and public works.
• Roads and Streetlights
o Road improvement (x2)
o Snow removal
o Traffic Engineering
o Redoing the streetlight at 16th and Duff to have a right/straight lane and a left turn lane and redo the lights to match. This light backs up way too much
• Recreational Amenities
o Recreational opportunities
o Arts program
o Public swimming pool
• Walking and Biking Path
o Biking paths (x3)
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o Bike trails
o Connect bike path to High Trestle Trail
o Off street bike paths
o Benefits for people who choose to cycle or walk
• Transportation
o Rental bikes
o CyRide
• Climate Change
o Climate change mitigation
o Conservation and environmental enhancement (i.e. biodiversity)
o Investing in renewable energy or recycling
o Improve energy efficiency and eco-friendliness of the city and to reduce Environmental impact
• Others
o Development of mixed-use homes and businesses
o Animal shelter
o Less investment for law enforcement
o Public mental health services
o Non-police conflict resolution / crisis management
o Public Works
o When I say the more should be spent on animal control, I mean taking care of them not catching them specifically Table 4 shows the five-year trends of the “spend more” responses for on-going city services. The categories that received the most support for increased spending were ASSET, followed by Ames Animal Shelter and Animal Control. ASSET funding has shown a continuous increase in “spend more” responses since 2018 (21% in 2018 to 32% in 2022). In contrast, the Animal Shelter and Animal Control funding showed a dip last year before trending upward (29% in 2019, 20% in 2021, and 26% in 2022). Comparing 2021 to 2022, seven of the ten categories highlight noteworthy changes from the previous 4 years (between 4% to 16%) change. In previous years (2020 to 2021), the highest change was 12%; before that, most categories had smaller year-to-year changes of 1% to 4% for most categories. The largest increase in the “spend more” category from the previous year was for recreational opportunities funding (16% increase from 9% in 2021 to 25% in 2022)), which sharply contrasts with the last year’s responses when it was the largest decrease (-12%). Respondents who felt that the city should continue with the current level of support of support for recreational opportunities at $2,279,477 decreased from 87% in 2021 to 65% in 2022.
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Table 4. Trends in “spend more” responses for on-going services (%)
Services 2018 2019 2020 2021 Percent 2022
When comparing the demographics of respondents with their support of certain services some statistically significant differences have been identified. The demographic data examined included years lived in Ames, age, gender, full-time student status, home ownership, education, employment status, household income, and geographic residence in town. No significant difference in budget increase/decrease by race (Whites versus non-whites) was found. These groups of respondents supported increased spending for the following programs and services. Arts Programs (Public Art &COTA)
• ISU student
• Middle-age respondent (25-44 years of age)
• Some graduate work
• Income of $25,000- 49,999 Fire protection
• Non-student residents
• Male
• Owner Human service agency
• Non-student residents Law enforcement
• Non-student residents
• Long-term residents (more than 10 years in Ames)
• Older respondent (older than 65 years of age)
• Homemaker
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Ames Animal Shelter and Animal Control
• Female
• Renter
• Younger respondent (under 25 years of age)
• Short-term residents (less than 10 years in Ames)
• Lives at SW area of the city Ames Public Library
• Graduate degree
• Hispanic/ Latino origin
• Lives at NE area of the city Land use planning (both current planning and long-term)
• ISU Student Park activities
• ISU Student
• Middle-age respondent (25-44 years of age) Recreational opportunities
• Middle-age respondent (25-44 years of age) CyRide (public transit)
• Male
• ISU student
• Short-term residents (less than 4 years in Ames)
• Middle-age respondent (25-44 years of age)
• Unemployed
• Income of under $25,000
• Hispanic/ Latino origin
• Renter The city levy for the next year is $9.83 per $1,000 of taxable valuation. This means that the city portion of the property tax on a $100,000 home in Ames is about $532.10 after rollback. When respondents were asked their view about adjusting property taxes next year, 49% indicated they would prefer no change, 30% suggested decreasing property taxes and 21% suggested an increase in property taxes. Figure 2 shows preferred property tax adjustments over the past five years. This year, slightly more respondents indicated they would prefer a decrease in property tax (30% in 2022 compared to 28% in the previous year). Twenty-one percent would accept an increase in property tax, which is also slightly more compared to last year (18%). The percentage of “no change” decreased by 5% (from 54% in 2021 to 49% in 2022).
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Figure 2. Trends in preferred property tax adjustments for next year
Capital Improvement Priorities Respondents were asked to prioritize seven suggested capital improvement project (CIP) areas. Table 5 shows respondents’ 2022 capital improvement priorities. This year the three highest priorities were reconstruction of existing streets (84% rated this as somewhat or very important), traffic flow improvements (83%) and greenway trails (recreational) improvements (78%). Reconstructing existing streets received a mean value of 3.3 based on a 4-point scale (1- not very important, 2 - not important, 3 - important and 4 - very important). Twelve survey respondents answered with “other” specified priorities, see below.
Table 5. Capital improvement priorities, 2022
Somewhat or Very Somewhat or Very Important Average*
*1=very unimportant; 2=somewhat unimportant; 3=somewhat important; 4=very important
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Other responses: (n=12)
• Recreational Improvements
o Swimming pool improvement
o Public “art”
o Community garden to encourage residents produce their own food
• Sustainability Efforts
o Climate change mitigation programs
o Solar panel installations in residential buildings
o Reforestation of urban streets
• Road Improvements
o Get bicycles off to major routes
o Bike-friendly roads
o New streets
o Roads connecting to grand avenue
• Development of retail area
• Snow removal
• Electric charging stations all over the town Table 6 shows trends in survey respondents’ views of the CIP priorities in the last five years. Two of the top three project priorities have remained quite consistent over the past five years: (1) reconstructing existing streets and (2) traffic flow improvements. This year, improvement of greenway trails (recreational) achieved the third priority spot. In 2022, there were several changes in the trends for CIP priorities from the previous year. Only greenway trails (recreational) improvements remained the same as the previous year. Three CIP categories, improvements to existing parks (-2%) and off-street bike facilities (commuter) improvements (-2%), on-street bike facilities (commuter) improvements (-1%), decreased as priorities. The only significant increase in priorities compared to the last year was ‘traffic flow improvements’ (an increase of 5%). The other two categories with an increase include reconstructing existing streets (+2%) and stormwater drainage improvements (+2%).
Table 6. Trends in Capital Improvement Priorities Service Survey Year 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Percent very or somewhat important
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Survey respondents ranked their three highest CIP priorities. Table 7 shows the results of those rankings. Reconstructing existing streets was ranked the highest priority followed by traffic flow improvements, and stormwater drainage improvements as the three highest priorities in 2022.
Table 7. Ranking of Capital Improvement Priorities
Capital Improvements 1st Priority (n=377) (n=371) (n=361)
Resident Satisfaction with City Services Respondents were asked to rate their level of satisfaction with nine services provided by the City of Ames. Responses were based on a scale of 1 to 4 (1 = “very dissatisfied”, 2 = “somewhat dissatisfied”, 3 = “somewhat satisfied”, and 4 = “very satisfied”) as well as a fifth option, “don’t know.” Figure 3 shows the level of satisfaction with city services continues to be high. From 2018 to 2022, all nine services were rated highly (satisfied to very satisfied) by the respondents. In 2022, the residents’ satisfaction levels were similar to last year for all the nine services provided by the City of Ames. The average satisfaction rating for law enforcement services went down from 3.5 to 3.4 in 2021 and remained the same in 2022. Figure 3 shows that in the past five years, the level of satisfaction was steady. The satisfaction level for law enforcement seems to follow a slight downward trend from 2018. Public nuisance enforcement (e.g., noise, over-occupancy, yard upkeep) is consistently rated the lowest.
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Figure 3. Perceived Satisfaction Levels on Services, 2018-2022 (1=very dissatisfied;
4=very satisfied)
Table 8 summarizes respondents’ satisfaction with city departments. Overall, respondents are quite pleased with city services, as six of nine service areas received more than 94% “somewhat or very satisfied” responses. Respondents were least satisfied with public nuisance enforcement services with only 80% of respondents “somewhat or very satisfied” followed by law enforcement services (89%).
Table 8. Summary Table of Satisfaction with City Services (removing “don’t know”)
Very/Somewhat Dissatisfied Very/Somewhat Satisfied Fire & Rescue Services (n=301) 2.3 97.7 Library Services (n=293) 2.4 97.6 Parks & Recreation Services (n=352) 4.3 95.7 Sanitary Sewer System (n=346) 5.2 94.8 Electric Services (n=360) 5.3 94.7 Water Services (n=368) 5.7 94.3 CyRide Bus service (n=279) 6.1 93.9 Law Enforcement Services (n=341) 11.4 88.6 Public Nuisance Enforcement (n=306) 19.9 80.1
Comments on City of Ames Services
Respondents were asked for additional comments regarding their satisfaction with city services. A handful of respondents conveyed their satisfaction with existing city services. Other respondents offered suggestions to improve city services. Diverse topics were identified from the respondents' comments including road and traffic management; a need to increase amenities (biking paths, transportation, housing, recreation); zoning and development; crime and safety; and utility services. Respondents suggested that improvements could be made to road and traffic management through better traffic lights and more coordinated signals. Improvements for CyRide services included providing more routes and bus stop, and reduced bus fares. Other respondents suggested additional
0.0
0.5
1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5
3.0
3.5
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
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emphasis on property upkeep, creating more parks and different activity centers (roller skate rinks). Respondents also discussed mixed-use promotion, more green space, and crime prevention. Renewable energy sources, better management, and transparency in utility billing are also highlighted in the discussion. Other topics included disinvestment in police, restoring animal habitats, and the high cost of living and taxes. See the appendix for complete comments.
Police Department Survey respondents were asked about their priority areas for law enforcement by indicating if the Ames Police Department should give less, the same, or more emphasis to 16 law enforcement activities. More than half of respondents indicated emphasis should be the same for every category, except sex-related offenses investigation. Table 9 shows respondents’ priority preferences for Ames Police Department activities from the 2022 survey. While most people indicated that law enforcement activities should remain constant, 54% of respondents indicated sex-related offenses investigation should be considered for additional priority. Only 2.9% suggesting less emphasis. Other policing activities that people specified should have additional emphasis included violent crimes investigation (40%), crime prevention and education activities (38%), domestic violence and family dispute resolution (38%, respectively), and illegal drug use prevention and enforcement (33%). Parking laws enforcement was one area that 42% of respondents agreed should receive less emphasis from law enforcement. Less emphasis on parking has been consistent for the past five years. Other categories that respondents felt should receive less emphasis included marijuana-related crime enforcement at 42% (which was new to the survey this year), speed limit enforcement (21%), noise laws and nuisance party enforcement (15%), alcohol- related crime enforcement (13%) and bad checks, fraud & identity theft investigation (12%).
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Table 9. Future emphasis for Police Department activities
Sex-related offenses investigation (n=379) 2.9 42.7 54.4 Violent crimes investigation (n=376) 0.8 59.3 39.9 Crime prevention and education activities (n=377) 1.1 60.5 38.5 Domestic violence and family dispute resolution (n=380) 2.9 59.2 37.9 Illegal drug use prevention and enforcement (n=379) 11.6 55.1 33.2 Bad checks, fraud, & identity theft investigation (n=379) 3.7 69.9 26.4 Alcohol-related crime enforcement (n=380) 12.9 64.5 22.6 Noise law and nuisance party enforcement (n=381) 15.0 65.4 19.7 Animal control and sheltering (n=378) 9.8 74.9 15.3 Marijuana-related crime enforcement (n=380) 41.6 43.9 14.5 Speed limit enforcement (n=381) 21.0 64.6 14.4 Juvenile crimes investigation (n=376) 9.3 77.1 13.6 Residential patrolling (n=378) 9.5 77.5 13.0 Traffic control and enforcement (n=381) 8.1 82.2 9.7 Business district patrolling (n=379) 8.4 83.9 7.7 Parking laws enforcement (n=381) 42.0 53.3 4.7 Table 10 shows five-year trends for police department activities that should receive “more emphasis.” Most survey respondents (54%) indicated that sex-related offenses investigation needs “more emphasis.” The trends for areas that need more emphasis have generally remained consistent. Five out of 16 police activities reported similar numbers between the 2022 and 2021 survey, which include sex-related offenses investigation, animal control and sheltering, bad checks, fraud & identity theft investigation, business district patrolling, and parking laws enforcement. Only a few policing activities have seen slight declines in the number of respondents indicating a need for “more emphasis” compared to 2021 data: residential patrolling (-6%), noise laws and nuisance party enforcement (-2%), and traffic control and enforcement (-1%). However, respondents thought several police department activities should receive more emphasis for 2022 compared to last year: domestic violence/family dispute resolution (+5%), crime prevention and education activities, illegal drug use prevention and enforcement, alcohol-related crimes enforcement (+4% respectively), violent crimes investigation, juvenile crimes investigation (+3% respectively), and speed limit enforcement (+2% ). Because this is the first year that ‘marijuana-related crime enforcement’ was included, there is no comparison with previous years.
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Table 10. Trends in “more emphasis” for police department activities
Survey Year Police Department activity 2018 2019 2020 Percent
Domestic violence/family dispute resolution 32 30 41 33
Alcohol-related crimes enforcement 21 23 16 19 Animal control and sheltering 15 18 19 15
Juvenile crimes investigation 14 13 14 11 Residential patrolling 18 19 19 19 Traffic control and enforcement 12 11 10 11 Business district patrolling 8 7 9 8 Parking laws enforcement 6 5 6 5
Comments on Police Department (n=48) The police department received positive comments from the survey. Here are examples:
• “I personally thank our Ames Police Department for their service to our community.”
• “I think the police do an excellent job.”
• “I always feel safe in my home, I often seen patrolling cars and that gives me safety outdoors and at night.”
• “Don’t defund the police.”
• “I would… like to recognize Ames Police Department for its commitment to a greener community and congratulate it on nearly completing the switchover to a hybrid patrol fleet. This will greatly improve emissions within the community and also better utilizes Ames tax dollars with the savings on fuel and maintenance...” Several respondents indicated their lack of knowledge about the current policing priorities and others shared about their lack of contact with the police. “Don’t really know much about the Ames Police and how they serve... I wish they would post more statistics about the cases they have to know what is going on in the community more.” Another respondent suggested
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additional information about where crimes are taking place,” I think awareness is more important and crimes that happen in the city can be broadcasted more and update on why/when/where it happened can be more clear. “ There was a group of respondents who suggested reassigning some of the roles served by police to alternative service providers such as mental health providers for non-violent domestic and mental health situations. The following comments were suggested. “I wish there was a mental health tract to handle non-violent calls.” “Instituting a non-violent crime crisis prevention / mediation response team would help to reduce burden placed on police department and increase access to substance abuse treatment and general counseling.” “What is being done to work with community advocates and mental health professionals for non-violent police calls? What is being done in terms of de-escalation and connecting people to services when it comes to emotional/behavioral, mental illness, and family conflict types of calls? PLEASE consider MPACT and please read more about this incredible intervention strategy: https://www.yss.org/mpact/” “Would like to know more about how APD deals with mental health emergencies, coordination, and mental health care +YSS etc.” These comments point to lack of clarity and education surrounding mental health crisis as related to the Ames Police. While some of resources suggested by the respondents already exist (see resources in italics below) in the Ames community there is a clear knowledge gap for the general public.
Please remember that as residents of Iowa, all residents can access the Statewide Crisis Line,1-855-
581-8111, or Text support, 1-855-895-8398. The Crisis Line provides information and referral,
counseling, crisis service coordination, and linkages to crisis screening and mental health services,
including dispatch of the Central Iowa Community Services (CICS) Mobile Response Team 24 hours
a day in Story County. Additional resources are available that incorporate help with alcohol, drugs,
gambling, as well as mental health and suicidal thoughts.
The CICS Mobile Crisis Response Team, can be accessed by calling 1-855-581-8111. A trained two-
person team will leave as soon as they have been dispatched and will respond to the scene within 60
minutes. Once onsite, the on-call counselors are able to perform crisis assessments and will take the
necessary time with the client to: determine if suicidal or homicidal ideations are present;
determine if de-escalation and stabilization in the field are possible; and complete a thorough safety
plan with the client if they are willing to contract for safety in that moment. Several survey respondents advocated for additional crime prevention programming. One respondent stated, “…the community would benefit from more crime prevention work, especially related to sexual assault or abuse. The college community is a large part of Ames, and there are many crimes related to these issues. It would be awesome to see sexual assault prevention training targeted towards aggressors, not just for women on how to escape.” Another suggested, “More investment in crime prevention programs (or social welfare programs) ...” Another response suggested,” I would like to see a reduction of the police force here in Ames, in
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budget, size, and influence. The funding should be redistributed to other sectors of the local government that provide material assistance to residents, i.e. support for housing, food assistance, and medical care…. Crime is prevented by ensuring that individuals' needs are met and strengthening community ties. I do not see that police officers contribute to those areas. Overall, I think the presence of the police department has a negative effect on our community in Ames.” Another angle on this was represented in the following comment, “I think the police have too much to do. Other groups should help - example animal control, domestic dispute resolution.” Also related to the issue of sexual assault, one respondent commented, “… I would like to see an increase in sex-related offenses investigations and aid in trying to put an end to it. I have had more emails come through this school year about sexual assaults than any other year I have been at ISU by far. While a fair amount of these occurs on campus, I know they also occur off campus as well. I also know that not every assault doesn't get reported. A focus on outreach efforts for victims would be a good addition.” Another felt more could be done regarding sexual assault, “Ames police are nice enough but when it comes to sexual assault on and off campus very little is done.” There were a couple people commenting against drug enforcement around the use of marijuana. Several others commented asking for less enforcement for public intoxication, “For alcohol - really should not go after pedestrians just walking home.” Another shared, “Please use more discretion in enforcing public drunkenness laws. These are violated by everyone on Welch but only a few end up being ticketed. At best, the enforcement of these laws are differential, at worst they are discriminatory.” One respondent shared the following comment in favor of more drug enforcement, “Do not let meth and cocaine dealers get a foothold in Ames. Run them out of Ames.” Parking was another topic that received quite a few comments. Comments focused on street parking policies and ticketing. Several of the respondents feeling like parking is overemphasized in policing. The following comment captures the sentiment, “The parking is overkill. Put resources toward something else.” Another had a suggestion about parking warnings, “As there is a limit to parking in the same location on residential streets, it can be expected that this be enforced. However, there have been instances where parking in a location for 6 hours overnight has resulted in a warning about towing…. Additionally, the stickers used are not removable except with the strongest adhesive removers, and cause difficulty with visibility when driving to locations to purchase the adhesive remover. A suggestion would be to chalk the tires before issuing the warning and using an easier to remove warning indication on the window.” Speeding and traffic violations was a topic of concern among a group of respondents. Several people were concerned about speeding in residential neighborhoods and along Lincoln Way and asked for more patrols to help control this. Several comments addressed various moving violations. “Few drivers seem to signal left turns properly. Signals are often not used until driver is in act of turning. Also, use of "bright lights" inside a city is against the law, but many drivers constantly drive with high lights in and never warned or ticketed. Also, lights set too high, too low, too far left, etc. should also be ticketed.” Another person focused their concern on too many people running red lights. An additional respondent wrote, “I would also like to see more emphasis on catching bad traffic behavior - weaving/speeding/ignoring stop signs.” Other topics of concern included homelessness, calls to investigate several recent murders, and better enforcement of pet laws.
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The word cloud is the visual representation of the comments. For original responses, please refer to the appendix.
Figure 4. Comments on Police Department
Fire Department Survey respondents reported their satisfaction with various Ames Fire Department activities. Table 11 shows respondents’ satisfaction ratings. For each activity, at least 60% of survey respondents responded with “Don’t know” (which was excluded in the analysis in Table 11). Nearly all the respondents were somewhat/very satisfied with efforts at putting out fires (99%) and ambulance assistance (97%). This is followed by 93% for fire prevention education and outreach, and home and business safety inspection and 91%.
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Table 11. Satisfaction with Fire Department activities (“Don’t Know” removed)
Fire Department Activity Very/Somewhat Dissatisfied Somewhat/Very Satisfied
Comments on Fire Department (n=30) Fourteen of comments were from respondents who said they never needed the services from Fire Department and/or had little experience dealing with the Fire Department. Generally, this group assumed the Fire Department was doing a good job and were thankful to have not needed their services. Many of the comments provided positive feedback regarding the Ames Fire Department. This included people who wrote comments of gratitude for times they needed assistance. One respondent commented on the retrieval of a neighbor’s pet bird. Another example included a quick response to carbon monoxide call, noting, “[I am] so thankful for their quick response and help. Just having them show concern was important to me.” Another respondent commented about being grateful for assistance with their father’s medical problems, “They were great - very kind and knowledgeable.” Respondents provided positive examples of fire safety education and outreach activities including for daycares and graduate students. There were several comments requesting additional fire prevention education programs and more outreach about existing programs. One student suggested, “As a student worker, I have to take fire safety training every year…. the university videos are very good. I have not seen any sort of fire prevention material from the city. It could be beneficial to even just share ISU's fire prevention material with the city of Ames as an easy form of fire prevention information for the community.” While most of the comments were positive there were several respondents who provided constructive criticism. One person commented about inconsistency of inspections depending on inspector. Another commented that their home inspection never happened. Another mentioned the quick arrival but lack of knowledge on how to disarm a building fire alarm. One person suggested that the city of Ames should consider building a fire station on the west side of town or relocating Fire Station 2 (currently on Welch Ave in Campustown) so that it can better serve the community through quicker response times. This respondent also suggested getting a second ladder truck now that we have more multi-story buildings in Campustown and West Ames. (See appendix for complete comment.) Actual responses can be seen at the appendix.
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Figure 5. Comments on Fire Department
Ames Electric Service Survey respondents were asked a series of questions regarding Ames Electric Services including questions about power outages, satisfaction with various aspects of the Electric Services department, and SunSmart Ames project. The number of respondents who have experienced a power outage fluctuates every year and is nearly always connected to weather conditions. Table 12 demonstrates this fluctuation. Between 2018-2019 around one-third of respondents reported experiencing a power outage. By 2020, that number climbed to 48%, and in 2021, over 80% of those surveyed reported experiencing an outage due to the community-wide power outage resulting from the uncertain windstorm of derecho in August 2020. However, the rate sharply declined to 43% in 2022. Twelve percent of respondents experienced a power surge, which affected their computer operations in 2022 compared to 24% in 2021.
Table 12. Respondents’ experience with electric service interruption
Service outage 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Percent who responded “yes”
affected computer operations 10 12 18 24 12
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Table 13 shows satisfaction rates with Electric Department services. “Does Not Apply” responses were excluded in this analysis. Ninety-eight percent of Ames customers were somewhat or very satisfied with the quality of power, and 93% were satisfied with the response of employees. There was also a high rate of satisfaction with the ease of reporting an outage (93%) and time to restore service (91%). Respondents indicated relatively favorable rates of satisfaction for the communication of progress in restoring services (86%). Almost a quarter (24%) of respondents reported being very/somewhat dissatisfied with electric rates.
Table 13. Satisfaction with Electric Department services
Very/somewhat dissatisfied very satisfied Average
Figure 6 shows the five-year trends in the level of satisfaction with the Electric Department. The satisfaction levels for the response of employees and being informed of progress restoring service remained quite constant over the five-year period. Among the other four categories, quality of power, ease of reporting an outage, and time to restore service have seen an increase in satisfaction from 2021, while the satisfaction for electric rates has decreased slightly.
Figure 6. Satisfaction with City Electric Department activities, 2018-2022
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24 2022 Ames Residential Satisfaction Survey
Respondents were asked to gauge their interest in participating in the SunSmart Ames community solar farm. To participate, Ames Electric Services customers can purchase a share of the project and receive a small monthly credit on their electric bills. The survey asked for feedback on why customers would not want to participate. Of those who were not participating, a majority (53%) stated that they are not planning to stay in Ames long term, 31% stated that it’s too expensive, and 5% stated that they were not interested. Other reasons (29%) for not wanting to participate in the program include the upfront cost, lack of enough savings, age, residents of apartment houses and retirement center, live in the rented buildings (renters), requirement of long-term commitment, concerns about return on investment, concern about reliability of power, lack of knowledge or interest and already have solar. Others don’t believe solar is sustainable nor it is the best option as alternative electricity source.
Comments on Electric Services
• Already have solar (x2)
• The electric power cut after derecho took over a weekend to retore and it was awful
• Any plans to expand the solar farm?
• Great Services (x11)
o Cool Project/ Great/ Love the push for renewable energy
o I would just like to point out a great response to the Derecho and other recent wind events.
o Renewable energy that could dramatically lower the costs and cut back on environmental impact sounds good
• Interested and considering about it. But prefer the panels go on roofs or parking lots instead of land
• Monetary constraints (x4)
o Lack of economic benefits/ Expected credit is very low
o Financial viability
o Not enough return on investment
• Short term stay/ likely to move soon (x6)
• Lack of knowledge (x4)
o Didn’t have any knowledge about it
o Need more information about this
• I want this power pack. Lincoln, NE had this and it was amazing. Worth the cost in the long haul
• Electricity bill (x3)
o I wish there was an online payment for my bill that didn't inquire an additional fee. It is inconvenient to mail it in every month.
o It would be nice if the bill was paperless
o Consider lowering the cost of electric services. There are a lot of families suffering financially as the cost of living has drastically increased in the wake of the pandemic.
• Student living in rented apartment
• Individual homeowner should be encouraged to install solar panels on their roofs regardless of location, even if they are visible from the street.
• So much govt when it comes to a "green world". The stats don't always agree. The whole world needs to think about green. Go slower/ evaluate not just jump into latest idea.
• The credit card fee is $3.50 and the late fee is $2 with one late payment allowed before service discontinuation. Solve for the equilibrium.
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Water Service Of the respondents who use City of Ames water and sanitary sewer services, the majority reported never having problems such as too much pressure (94%), soft water (93%), rust (80%), disagreeable taste or odor (79%), sediment or cloudy appearance (75%), too little pressure (73%), and hard water (71%). Figure 7a shows the frequencies of water service problems as reported in 2022. Most respondents experiencing water problems indicated they had problems once or twice in the past year these problems range from too much pressure (3%) to sediment or cloudy appearance (17%). Some respondents reported experiencing hard water on seven or more occasions in the last year. Figure 7b shows the number of respondents reporting no water problems for the past five years (2018 to 2022). Historically, a majority of Ames residents are pleased with their water. The rate of respondents reporting no water problem increased significantly in 2022 compared to the previous years, with the exception of disagreeable taste or odor. There is a slight increase in those reporting to have a disagreeable taste and odor with their water.
Figure 7a. Frequencies of water service problems, 2022
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Figure 7b. Respondents Reporting No Water Service Problems, 2018-2022
Comments on Water Services
Many respondents commented positively about Ames tap water. Most comments indicated that they were pleased with the quality and taste through words like amazing, best water, excellent, good, and great. “Ames water rocks.” Several respondents believe Ames is among the best water in the country. Another person shared this positive experience, “I recently took my kids to a tour of that water treatment facility and wow is about all I can say. It was an amazing experience for all of us!” While there were many positive comments, respondents also shared their complaints. Some common comments included hard water, pressure issues, discolored water from hydrant flushing, and sediment in water. Several people living in apartment buildings said they experience water issues, but they attributed their issues to conditions within the apartment building rather than city water. Other comments of concern included high ph, nitrates, and plastic particles in water. Another respondent discussed changing taste of water over time, “We installed filter for treating drinking water as the quality of taste declined. We lived here 40 years, water tastes of chemistry but it didn't used to.”
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For exact wording of comments and to review all comments, please see the appendix.
Figure 8. Comments on Water Service
Water and Pollution Control Department Survey respondents were asked to provide their level of satisfaction with water quality and rates on a scale of 1 – Very Dissatisfied to 4 – Very Satisfied. Respondents could also choose “Does not apply.” The satisfaction rates are reported in Table 14. Ninety-one percent of those surveyed were satisfied with water quality, and 82% were satisfied with water rates and 81% sewer rates. Comparing 2022 data to the previous year, overall, the numbers remained quite steady from the previous year. Customer satisfaction is high among all three categories. Water quality ranked highest with an average score of 3.5 out of 4, indicating a high level of satisfaction.
Table 14. Satisfaction with Water & Pollution Control Department Services
Average Water quality (n=362) 9 91 3.5 Water rates (n=320) 18 82 3.1 Sewer rates (n=302) 19 81 3.1 * “Does not apply” excluded when calculating percentages for “very dissatisfied” to “very satisfied.”
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Figure 9 shows trends in the number of people experiencing problems related to the City’s stormwater system. Over the past decade, there have been some years with increased activity. For example, in 2017, there was slightly more stormwater flooded properties, but the numbers from 2019 far exceed any of the other years. In 2022, compared to the years 2020 and 2021, relatively higher numbers of respondents experienced flooding or sewer backups on their property. Survey respondents were asked if the City sewer system caused a drain back-up in their basement/home. Only 9% of survey respondents indicated they had a back-up in their home (compared to 46% in 2019 and 7% in 2021). Of those who had a drain back-up problem, 31% (n=11) reported the problem to the City, of which six people were somewhat/very satisfied with the response and assistance they got from the city. Respondents also reported whether the stormwater flooded onto their properties from the street. In 2022, stormwater flooding was reported by only 7% of respondents. Of the 26 respondents who experienced flooding, only 5 people (19%) reported the problem to the city. When asked how satisfied they were with the city’s response to the flooding problem, two of the five respondents reported being somewhat dissatisfied with the response.
Figure 9. Respondent’s Experience with City Sewer System Problems, 2013-2022
Comments on Water and Pollution Control There were twenty-two additional comments for the water and pollution control section. Several of comments praised the Ames Water Department and encouraged the department to continue its good work. A couple respondents encouraged the City to keep investing in the water and sewer systems to ensure quality systems. Two respondents expressed concern over the “forever chemicals” that have recently been found in some wells in the Ames water system. One respondent provided the following comment,” I am… part of a citizen science project for monitoring salt levels in local streams/surface waters and there are often high levels of contamination during/after the winter. With the wealth of knowledge, we have from experts in the community, there is no excuse for Ames to have poor water quality. We should be a leading example of environmental health and have policies in place to insure that.” Another respondent indicated that they would like to more about Ames’s stormwater issues.
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2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Drain/sewer backed up
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Several respondents shared specific incidents of sewer or stormwater backup issues (see Appendix for specific comments). Some renters made comments regarding their buildings. Another common topic was related to utility stormwater drainage rates. All comments were in favor of lower rates. Several people commented on the utility bill charge for “stormwater drainage." One person felt that stormwater drainage was an unfair change in times of no rain. Another commented that stormwater drainage, “Doesn't seem very applicable to my electric bill and also seems like $5/month from every resident would add up to a lot so I sure hope the cost is justified.” A final comment expressed the need to conserve water during times of drought.
Neighborhood Nuisance Enforcement Table 15 illustrates survey respondents’ satisfaction with the City’s neighborhood nuisance enforcement efforts. Almost half of respondents surveyed indicated that they did not know about nuisance enforcement activities. “Don’t know” ranged from 46% (noise limits) to 73% (rental over occupancy). These individuals were excluded from the calculated satisfaction percentages. Among those who expressed opinions, more than two-thirds reported being “somewhat” to “very satisfied” with each enforcement effort: over-occupancy in rental property (76%), noise limits (73%), property upkeep (72%), yard upkeep (72%). More than half rated front yard parking on residential (69%) and outdoor storage on property (64%) as satisfactory (somewhat to very satisfied). The average satisfaction is somewhat satisfied (level ranges from 2.8 to 3.1). When satisfaction level was compared against geographic residences of the respondents, the level of satisfaction was the same regardless of where a respondent lives for five of the six nuisance ordinance issues (front yard parking on residential property, outdoor storage on property, over-occupancy in rental property, property upkeep, and yard upkeep). However, those living on the southeast side of the town (South side of Lincoln Way and streets to the south; east side of University Boulevard and streets to the east) were the least satisfied with the noise limits.
Table 15. Satisfaction in neighborhood nuisance enforcement Very/Somewhat Dissatisfied Very Satisfied
windows) (n=199)
furniture, garbage (n=205)
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Comments on Neighborhood Nuisance Enforcement Some people had no experience with any of the nuisance enforcement issues or felt them not applicable to their situation. One resident commented, “Ames is a well-kept city.” For those who are aware of nuisance enforcement, several expressed concern at the perceived action by the City of Ames. “Dissatisfied things do not seem enforced at all.” Another person expressed disappointment with the enforcement tactics on the City’s social media account illustrated in the following comment,” I was really disheartened to see that Ames solution to this problem was to public shame houseowners on Facebook. It was very clear who's house it was and who they were targeting. Maybe the person is going through things right now that cause them to not fix things. Talking with the owners and working through the problem seems more appropriate.” There were several comments about expressing general frustration about the lack of rental maintenance (buildings as well as snow removal and lawn) and upkeep in Ames by landlords and the lack of City enforcement. Comments included the following: “…landlords need…[to]be in charge of lawn upkeep and snow removal…” “Ames allows…too many rentals and they [don’t] abide by law – mowing, weeding, parking, house upkeep. Absolutely no account of City or laws to limit rentals in established family neighborhood.” “Some properties seem to be allowed to languish. Not even sure if the property owners are informed…” “I think property upkeep is a major problem for rental properties and that the enforcement standards should be different for them compared to regular folk. My reasoning is this: most of the rentals around Ames are owned by huge rental businesses... If these companies can afford to buy up property…, and ask…whatever they want for rent, then there is no way they can't afford to replace busted gutters, windows, or whatever else needs to be fixed on the rentals. But do they? Almost never. Half of the houses in my neighborhood are rentals.... It's not surprising that they let them go so long, why would they spend the money to fix them if they can get away with leaving them in disrepair...” One respondent commented about living in a private community that has its own rules and enforcement, “I live in an association area… well maintained. However, driving around Ames I see instances of poor property upkeep... Do not know how much authorities can do to curtail messy yards & property upkeep.” Dovetailing with this comment another respondent noted, “The City is not an HOA. Unless it is a hazard to others, money should not be wasted on this, and in some cases City involvement is detrimental. For example, a lawn mowed short provides nothing to beneficial insects and wildlife while a wildflower planting or natural prairie setting benefits all, including homeowners with the flowers it provides. ‘One man's trash is another man's treasure’ holds true for all of the upkeep questions.” A group of respondents felt that property and yard upkeep ordinances weren’t important and should receive less emphasis from the city. These comments focused on letting property owners do what they choose on their private property.
“Let people do what they want, we should focus on actual problems.”
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“Outside of potential health and safety concerns, or any landlord enforced illegal housing situations, I do not care about any of these at all.”
“Please don't waste my tax dollars enforcing any of these except in extreme circumstances.”
“…what needs to be remembered is that the individual purchased that property to do with it what they please (within the reason of not creating an extreme condition)…”
“It is best for the environment, human health and pet health for yards to be pesticide and fertilizer free, which should be controlled. People should have Iowa's natural growth (prairie). People should not be fined for not keeping their yard up or property.” A number of respondents gave specific examples of violations of nuisance ordinances. Several provided locations of houses or neighborhoods that need maintenance. Another person commented, “I see many overgrown areas - including low hanging trees I have to dodge when walking on the sidewalk…” Excessive noise and partying were another theme among survey respondents. One person requested more enforcement on “party” days like 801. Several respondents made complaints about rowdy students including these comments,
• “Students run rampant in Campustown area. Overoccupancy and cars parked in yards. Loud parties. The problem should not be handed on a complaint requirement. You need to hire more people to enforce these rules. The neighborhood is almost ruined.”
• “Don’t have any issues in my neighborhood minus a house of college students that have regular parties and the apartments…. that can sometimes get loud.”
• One respondent shared, “Noise ordinances are meaningless if the police arrive in a marked vehicle before taking decibel measurements. All that does is allow the individuals causing the disturbance enough time to reduce music volume until the police leave.” One the other side of the issue, a frustrated person commented that they had followed all the proper permitting channels for their event and were still called into the police. Finally, there were a number of other comments. A respondent commented,” There are at least 40 garbage trucks passing on my street each week. One or two should be enough.” Another person commented that they were disappointed about the burning of leaves and dead vegetation in the city as this smoke caused them allergies. Several comments focused on parking nuisances, examples included over-parking on neighboring driveways, parking on lawns, and one the wrong side of the street. There was also a comment focusing on the rights of people to be homeless. For additional and specific comments, see the appendix.
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Figure 10. Comments on Nuisance Enforcement
Street Maintenance Residents were given the opportunity to rate street and bike path maintenance using a four-point scale from “very poor” (1) to “very good” (4). The average values ranged from 2.8 to 3.3, meaning the road services were rated almost good to very good. When “very good” and “good” responses were combined, responses ranged from 67% for neighborhood snow plowing to 93% for street sweeping in the business areas as seen in Table 16.
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Table 16. Road service ratings
Very Poor/ Poor Good
& paths) (n=331)
(n=380)
Figures 11a&b compare this year’s road service ratings with ratings from four previous years. Two categories show an increase in satisfaction from 2021 and for five other categories the satisfaction remains same as 2021. Seven out of nine street maintenance features were ranked “good” with an average score higher than 3.0. Two street maintenance categories received slightly lower average ratings: ice control at intersections and neighborhood snow plowing. In 2022, all the nine street maintenance features mentioned in Table 16 were viewed the same regardless of geographic residence.
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Figure 11a. Quality of street maintenance features (2018-2022)
Figure 11b. Quality of street maintenance features continued (2018-2022)
The survey also asked survey respondents to rate the effectiveness of coordination between traffic signals. Table 17 shows that while 58% of respondents said coordination was “often and/or almost always” effective, another 35% said the coordination was “rarely to sometimes” effective.
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Table 17. Signal Coordination Effectiveness (n=382), 2022
Percent Often effective 36 Almost always effective 22 Sometimes effective 25 Rarely effective 10 Don’t know 7
Comments on Street Maintenance Several people responded with positive comments for street maintenance and cleanliness. This year, the most common complaints were about road specific repairs and maintenance, snow/ice removal from roads and sidewalks, bike lane and pedestrian maintenance, and lack of coordination in traffic lights. Several people identified specific problem intersections, which are listed below. Other comments are also listed below. Positive Comments
• Clean streets
• Street maintenance gets a A+
• Better than most places but the whole of Grand should be reevaluated. Specific areas that need attention are:
• Road specific repairs and maintenance
o Give East/West traffic at the Grand/13th intersection a dedicated turn like North/South has.
o Driving west on 13th St trying to get through the Grand Ave intersection is terrible.
o 1514 Duff is in shambles and has been for years 1118 Grand Avenue has a backyard with trash and unused cars and looks like dump and has for years.
o Illinois Ave. needs repair, but I know it's a low priority because to such a small road.
o Poorer neighborhoods experience less street maintenance. I love seeing the street sweeper come through. Go street sweeper!!
o Lincoln way is not synced very well it seems.
o Please repave 7th St between Duff & grand. It is a mess.
o Still have gravel road at Adams St.
o Specific intersections that cause a lot of annoyance are 13th & Stange, 13th & Grand. It would make much more sense for those intersections to have left-turn only lanes rather than backing traffic up half a mile behind them.
o The asphalt blend used on the roads is very reflective during rainstorms making it very difficult to see the lane markers and painted indications with a lower vehicle. A less oil-based resurfacing asphalt may be beneficial to reduce this.
o The outside lanes on 13th- both sides- are pretty rough but I think the patching is adequate for as long as possible.
o There should be protected turn lanes on Lincoln Way into downtown Ames.
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• Bicycle and Pedestrian
o Bike path along 6th St. needs to have cracks addressed. I have contacted Public Works about putting Blackwood circle on the 5-year plan – but no response.
o Changing Duff for bike path was a terrible idea. Messed up traffic for all driving cars on Duff.
o I don't use bike path- they are mostly glorified sidewalks. Our street was partially resurfaced in 2017- the rest of it is horrible.
o I still can't believe you took away a lane of traffic in numerous locations and put in bicycle lanes; I rarely see any bicycles on them.
o I would like a sidewalk along Ross Road, the sides of the street are broken and uneven - a tripping hazard.
o The bike path to campus from west need fixing.
o The restriping of streets to make bike lanes against the curb seems to make dangerous bike paths. I would not feel safe riding in this junction of pavement and curb with frequent tire-grabbing cracks and potholes.
o The sidewalk in town are trip hazards, unsafe and are a discouragement to walkers and people with strollers/bikes.
o On street bike paths are good, as are wide sidewalks and off-street paths.
• Snow and Ice removal/Slippery Pavement
o How about keeping the snowplows on the street and not in my yard. Corner lots get beaten up every winter.
o Snowplows dump "concrete" consistency slush on resident’s driveway mouths - causing pile-up. Need to stop this in private driveway mouths.
o City plows often plow entrances to driveways shut, refilling private drives that have been previously cleared by homeowners. Snow is often also thrown up unto previously cleared sidewalks, making front traffic dangerous or not possible, after homeowner has carefully cleared paths on walks.
o Despite snowplows going through even main streets, there is always a layer of ice and snow that stays on the street. Neighborhood streets are even worse. I refuse to drive around Ames days after a snow storm goes through.
o The street crossing on the steep hill of Hayward (at Campus Ave) became dangerously icy. If there is any way for the city to add sand or something to the intersection, I think it would make it significantly safer in future years. It also makes the crosswalk completely inaccessible for disabled or mobility-limited people.
o Each year I dread winter because I know that our plow team is so insufficient, it would be better for me to hand move snow on our roads. They do not appropriately plow inside the trailer park where I live. This is an area that the city of Ames greatly needs to pay attention to as it is a yearly hazard.
o Ice control: plowing leaves sidewalk, crossing blocked and difficult/dangerous to use for pedestrians.
o My street can have major snowplow issues, with plows packing down snow and leaving a T intersection very icy.
• Traffic light coordination
o Lights are very poorly timed across the whole city.
o Change is needed for timing on Hyland/13th streetlight
o Except the intersection at Duff and Chick-fil-A. in winter months, I timed it one day, I sat with red light on S3rd/4th and duff for over 8 minutes before it finally triggered (6am timeframe) even now in summer months, it’s kind of unpredictable, not sure
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how the sensors work in that intersection.
o Going down Lincoln Way either way if you get one red light you get every single one between 3pm and 7pm otherwise you get all green.
o I think the traffic lights are out of sync here are purposeful, but it causes people to become more frustrated and aggressive when driving to try to beat the lights.
o I was not aware this existed, and I am often trapped at multiple lights going down major roads.
o Lights too long on side streets.
o Some traffic lights seem off - traffic is congested due to the flow of lights. Some too long.
o The number of lights has been put up back up traffic significantly. Roundabouts are a lot more efficient.
o The light at 13th St needs a green arrow or a turn lane.
o The traffic light at South Duff & South 16th Street - East & West needs changed- most times it only gets 3-4 cars thru- needs separate east light and separate west light.
o The traffic lights on Lincoln Way between Sheldon and Beach are set up where it is normal to hit every light red. The only way to get greens most the way is to either wait for the next light to turn green before going or to speed an unreasonable amount.
o Signal timing is horrible. Progression on Lincoln Way especially is start/stop all the way.
o Some seem long- red lights!
• Traffic Control Signage
o Need left signals on 13th & Grand- East/West bound. Turning left onto Grand from 13th Street, can't see other traffic coming and barely make it through light.
o Inconsistent turning arrows in Stange & 13th St intersection. City streets with bike path lanes is totally confusing and sometimes downright dangerous.
o I'm not sure if this has to be coordinated by the apartment complex, but the arrows exiting Copper Beech should be changed- most cars are going straight from the right lane, while the arrow indicates it should be done from the left lane, and the way the streets line up I think it makes more sense for it to be the right lane.
o Some signals seem to go by too fast. I notice it most at Lincoln/Grand, and the new light by Ada Haden heading to Gilbert.
o The Campustown area seems to have signals coordinated to slow traffic down.
o The traffic signal on Stange Rd. & 13th street doesn't work after midnight. So, I waited 15 minutes, and it still didn't change. So, I detoured the other road (very inefficient). Some people disregard the traffic signal because of out of order.
o PLEASE change the stoplight at S 16th street and S Duff Ave. The traffic that heads westbound on 16th street needs more time/more time to turn left onto southbound Duff. Please also change/add time to the stoplight at S. Dayton Ave. and SE 16th street. OR add additional lanes to this intersection! Again, traffic is always backed up.
• Other
o Horrible! City keeps adding traffic lights and stop signs but hasn't care of slowed traffic. South/North traffic is a nightmare slow.
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o It appears the City has gotten the message that the streets are a disgrace. Finally, there are some sections getting fixed. But there is lot to catch up.
o I live in a townhouse in Briardale. I believe Truman Place is a city street. In the winter we have trouble getting out of the association.
o I wish they wouldn't plow into parking spots in my neighborhood, specifically at my apartment, because then there's not enough spots to park at.
o Our streets are privately owned but in the city, and we pay taxes as well as maintain our streets.
o This has got to be my #1 highest priority issue in Ames. ("the land of red lights"). Ames has by far the worst traffic signal effectiveness I've ever seen. None of the lights communicate with each other.
CyRide Ames’ mass transportation system – CyRide – was evaluated in the survey. Note in Figure 12, the difference in ridership between those identifying as students and non-students. Among respondents who used CyRide at least once a week, 85% were students and 15% were non-students.
Figure 12. Use CyRide at least once a week, 2018-2022
In 2022, 44% of survey respondents reported some weekly use of CyRide, which is the same as 2021. In the past five years, the use of CyRide has averaged around 45% (between 44% and 49%). In 2022, 56% of respondents reported they never rode the bus. There was a 4% increase in those using CyRide 7 to 10 times in a week compared to 2021. There is also an increase in of 1% in those using CyRide once in a week and more than ten times in a week, respectively. However, CyRide use in 2 to 6 times per week faced a decrease of 7% from the last year (Table 18). There is a correlation between resident demographics and CyRide usage. CyRide users are mostly
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younger (under 25 years of age) and have stayed in Ames for a shorter period of time (average 5.8 years). The non-CyRide users were older (average age 52) and have lived in Ames longer (average 21 years). The majority of those who using CyRide were students (85%) and mostly renters (85%).
Table 18. Respondents’ weekly CyRide usage
Weekly use 2018 2019 2020 Percent 2021 2022
When respondents were asked what would make them consider using CyRide, if they are not currently using it, more than half (54%) said “nothing.” Eighteen percent mentioned they would use the service if there were more frequent routes near their residence. Additional factors that would encourage increased CyRide usership included more area coverage (16%), longer service (earlier/later) during the day (12%) and lower fare (4%) or no cost (9%) (Table 19). Many respondents commented that they plan to take CyRide once things become better with the Covid-19 pandemic.
Table 19. Services that would make you consider using CyRide if not
currently using this service (n=198)
Reason No. % Nothing 106 54 Service was more frequent on routes near me 36 18 Services were provided to more areas of Ames 32 16 Service was offered on my route longer during the day (earlier or later times)
Other responses to consider using CyRide
• Better understanding of schedule/routes (x3)
o Getting more familiar with CyRide and learning how to use it
• Proposed route
o Commuter service to DSM back daily
o Routes require transfer at City Hall
• Frequent stops (x4)
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• If there were less stops
• Covid-19 implications (x5)
o Will use after Covid
o Should have no mask requirement
o Work from home currently
• Others
o Doesn’t fit my lifestyle.
o If I could no longer drive
o If I didn’t have a car
o If the city became less bike friendly
o If we no longer had a drivable car
o If my car breaks down
o Too confusing
Comments on CyRide
• Bus Stop Locations and Shelter
o I have to walk 3 blocks to get a bus and wait without shelter. I have trouble with grocery, shopping and find it impossible to use the bus.
o I wish there were more frequent routes and more shelters at stops. There are far too few. You also can’t access large parts of the city using public transit. Especially east Lincoln Way and east 13th St.
o The CyRide system need more bus shelters across town. That is probably the most major barrier to riding. I do not want to stand in the wind or rain waiting for a bus, which results in me only taking the bus when I really have too instead of as a convenience or primary form of transportation.
• Additional Bus routes
o I would like more designated areas along the streets where buses could be out of traffic to let passengers on and off.
o I would use the bus if it came to Ken Maril Rd.
o Mostly fantastic, would use it more on weekends if the Cherry bus route operated.
o No bus route on Eisenhower Ave.
o I would also like some kind of shuttle service to Ankeny and Des Moines for commuters and airports. Doesn’t have to be often but a couple times a day for a few would be incredible.
• Bus Schedule/ Timing
o I think the timings of buses can tag team! All the buses arrive at the same time to the main stop, and it is not helpful.
o I worked at Hach. Bus times not early enough for the 1st shift. This also true for all other industrial plants in Dayton Ave.
o In the morning (8-10 am) and evening (4-6 pm) more frequent buses would be beneficial due to the high usage of the buses.
• Positive Comments
o Excellent, no exceptions.
o Good service.
o Great resource. Would be great is West Ames connected more to downtown and to Duff.
o I am a student so I ride free but I still think that the rate being only $1 is great for
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non-students like my partner.
o Great service! Expand if possible!
o The CyRide is one of the best things to ever happen for Ames in terms of public transportation.
o Very helpful.
o Very reliable.
o I have never had any complaints about the CyRide.
o I love CyRide. I used to use it every weekday before the pandemic. I'm still mostly working from home, so there's no need to commute, but when I return to work in person, I will return to using it more regularly. Sometimes I wish it wasn't a 20+ minute wait between buses to non-campus stops (red and green route), but still reliable (recently the bus was 10+ minutes late from its scheduled time).
• Don’t Use I Drive/Walk/Bike
o I am impressed with this service and what it offers other patrons of Ames however I travel so many places in one day it isn't feasible for me.
o I have my own car (x2)
o I live near campus and prefer to walk everywhere.
o I live within walking distance of most things so don’t have a big need for CyRide.
o I use Dial-A-Ride (HIRTA) since I use a walker.
• Suggestions
o Would be cool if they had Wi-Fi
o Would love to use CyRide more often if it is more convenient to use.
o I would like masks to not be a requirement on this mode of transportation, since most places of business no longer require them/ Lift the mask mandate. Buses can be packed like sardines and there is little evidence that masks short of an N95/KN95 do anything to protect from COVID-19.
o In the summer, use only small bus. I look at the waste of those buses with 1 person on them. And every year CyRide wants more money. It's a waste on energy and tears up the streets. Better management is needed here.
o It's ugly to see most buses empty or almost empty in my area. Invest in smaller buses, even cars would do.
o Keep on replacing older diesel buses. They are noisier and give off more pollutants. I do wish to keep the old school leather seats from old CyRide. Those are better :)
• Others
o I utilized CyRide my freshman year, and it was a great service. I just moved closer to campus and didn't need the service anymore.
o I am impressed with this service and what it offers other patrons of Ames however I travel so many places in one day it isn't feasible for me.
o Too inconvenient to wait.
o Too old. Did not use in the past. Now need to limit distance walker. Still drive. When I can't longer drive will use Hirta or whatever that service is called.
o Used to use it frequently, and it is one of the better bus systems I have used. The downside in Ames is that the trip from the bus stop to destination is frequently not easily walkable or requires crossing very busy streets. Lots of sidewalks in the city just randomly end.
o I don't trust the safety of riding a bus.
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Community Parks and Recreation Residents were asked to rate their level of satisfaction with various Ames Parks and Recreation features on a four-point scale from “very poor (1)” to “very good (4)” or “don’t use.” The individuals who did not use a park feature were excluded from the ratings in Table 20. Satisfaction with parks and recreation features continues to be high between 87% (restrooms) to 99% (overall appearance of the parks) of users providing a combined “very good” and “good” rating. The average rating ranges from 3.1 (restrooms) to 3.5 (overall appearance of the parks) on the 4-point scale.
Table 20. Users’ Satisfaction with Parks and Recreation Features, 2022
Very Poor Good
*“Don't Use” excluded when calculating percentages & average for “very good” to “very poor.” *1=very poor; 2=poor; 3=good; 4=very good This year, most features (5 out of 8 items) were rated the same as last year, see Figures 13a & 13b. Two features, hard surface trails and tennis courts were rated 1% lower than 2021 (with an average of 3.3 and 3.2, respectively). Restrooms while still having the lowest rating among all features was rated slightly higher in 2022 compared to the three previous years.
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Figure 13a. Rating of Parks and Recreation Features in the past 5 years
Figure 13b. Rating of Parks and Recreation Features in the past 5 years
0.0
0.5
1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5
3.0
3.5
4.0
Overall appearance Wooded areas Playground equipt Hard surface trails
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
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Comments on Parks and Recreation
• Positive Experiences
o Ada Hayden and Miracle Park are superb
o All great! / I like all that I’ve seen!
o Brookside Park well maintained, Moore Park highly utilized and well kept.
o For a small town, Ames has exceptional parks and rec. The dog park is one of my favorite parks.
o I don't use the parks much, but the facilities always look very well maintained.
o I love that parks have pet waste stations. More garbage cans means less trash on the ground usually
o I love the parks in Ames, definitely favorite place for me to go.
o We use the Ames parks often in particular, the Munn Woods and Daley Park. We enjoy using them very much.
o Trails are always great.
o Haven't visited these areas due to Covid. When I used to visit them, I enjoyed the picnic areas I was very impressed with all the facilities.
• Upgrades and Maintenance of Parks and Playgrounds
o Ames has a lot of amazing parks but some maintenance on some hiking trails are needed. McFarland. Some trails in Ames are marked as "limited maintenance" year-round but it would be nice to see more active effort to inspect the trails for brush or debris.
o More trees planted around playground equipment. Maybe even around the schools also.
o Parks could use more dog waste stations with bags and disposal bins.
o Playgrounds are too boring. Make them more interesting, different, challenging.
o Some maintenance is needed on the playground equipment in Parkview Heights.
o Need to remove the knocked down trees in some parks
o Need more lights around the parks at nights.
o Some water fountains need repair and maintenance.
• Trail upgrade and maintenance
o I love running the trails at the different parks. So, anything with flowers to make it eye appealing is great!
o I love the hard surfaced trails, but I wish there were more dirt or crushed rock trailed to walk/run.
o Paved trail surfaces need to be maintained more for specifically bikers. Stuart Smith Park and related trails have many cracks that make biking bumpy. For walking and running, the pavement is okay.
o A lot of dead and downed trees. Would like to see reforestation/ new tree planting in these woods.
• Additional Amenities/ Recreation facilities
o More scattered picnic areas, shelters, and tables.
o Could use more urban forest.
o More bike and walking trails.
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o More green space and habitats for wildlife.
o More tennis courts with lighting would be awesome!
o Needs a roller skate rink or more natural hiking paths.
o It would be great if trails have more water fountains, restrooms, and bike fixing stations. Long bike trails would be amazing as well.
o More well-connected hard surface trails
o We need a swimming place in the nature, like a beach on Ada Hayden.
o Would like more playgrounds designed for younger kids - toddler age- 1-4 years old.
• Bathrooms
o Need soap in bathrooms!
o Need to clean on a regular basis.
o Restrooms are many times closed and far from picnic areas.
• Suggestions
o Reservation of shelters in the parks at Ames could come at a cheaper price or rate for ISU students/student groups!
o I have seen two homeless shelters within the woods near Cold Water Golf Course and near the veterinary school. Either we need to remove this ability for homeless people to gather here, or cameras, lights, and other safety features should be installed.
• Others
o Bike paths along Stuart Smith Park and some of Brookside Park have large bumps which are hard on the hands and wrists.
o Consistent presence of trash, abandoned furniture, and debris, which is frustrating that the property owners are not held responsible for these kinds of things. This is especially evident in the lower income areas, where I happen to live.
o The sand volleyball courts are often well kept and set up in time for the warm weather to hit every year, but league nights make it difficult to find a court and the lack of lights on some of the courts makes it difficult to play in the fall.
o Too many parks, too expensive to maintain
Ames Public Library Generally, survey respondents rated Ames Public Library features highly. The survey asked respondents to provide opinions on 13 features provided by the Ames Public Library. Table 21 shows the results. Eight features were rated good/very good by 98% to 100% of the respondents. On the 4-point scale, average scores ranged from 3.6 to 3.8 (good to very good). Meeting/study rooms received no poor or very poor ratings. The most highly rated features (average score from 3.6 to 3.8) were the welcoming atmosphere followed by ease in asking questions of library staff by phone, availability of seating, Bookmobile service, customer service, meeting/study rooms, programs (story hour, book discussions, concerts), range of materials available (books, videos, magazines, software), and use of library resources from home via computer. The feature receiving the lowest rating was wait time for requests/holds.
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Table 21. Users’ ratings of Ames Public Library Features, 2022
Feature Very Poor Poor Good Very Good Don't Use* Average*
phone (n=157)
(books, videos, magazines,
discussions, concerts) (n=128)
*Don’t Use response not included in calculating ratings (%) and average Only 45% of the respondents use the Ames Public library as often as they would like to use it. Of those respondents who use the public library, 38% were ISU students. For non-library users, both students and non-students reported the same major reasons: not having time and acquiring materials from other sources. While 23% of non-ISU students listed parking as a barrier for not using the Ames Public library more often, only 15% of Iowa State students listed that as a reason. (Table 22)
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Table 22. Comparing students & non-students’ reasons for not
using the Ames Public Library (respondents could choose multiple
responses)
Respondent Status I don't have time materials from other sources is a problem open during hours that are convenient to my schedule
Iowa State University student (n=130) 54 51 15 10 20 Non-ISU student (n=65)
Other reasons mentioned for not using the Ames Public Library were:
• By non-student (n=13)
o Bad English
o Pandemic (Covid-19) (2x)
o Do not support LGBTQ functions allowed at a family-centered environment
o Don't get out that way
o Getting too old
o I am unfamiliar to layout and haven't time yet to explore
o No time
o Less books for my preteens. They prefer older, classics, there is more modern books, that we don’t allow kids to read.
o Not interested
o Too lazy to go to the library
o Unable to get help to be able to access materials online
o You can only use the computer for 30 minutes
• By ISU students (n=25)
o I use Parks Library (25X)
o Cost of parking
o Distance from campus. I rely on CyRide to get around.
o I don’t live near it
o I stay in my office, everything that I need I can find on the internet
o I work from home
o Must be a state resident to get a library card.
o Never ever seating
o Social distancing
o Sometimes desired material cannot be found at this library.
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Comments on Ames Public Library A majority of respondents are generally very pleased with the Ames Public Library. They used the following encouraging words and comments: always satisfied, amazing, excellent, love, great work, fantastic, gem, use frequently, “a necessary option in any community,” wonderful, and a great resource. They also mentioned the nice, friendly, and helpful staff. Some of the features mentioned were the Bookmobile, books on CD, clean facilities, range and quality of programs/services, outstanding children’s programming, and gender-neutral bathrooms. Several respondents commented about enjoying the library’s atmosphere, “a warm and welcoming environment.” One survey respondent noted a recent library improvement, “I am so impressed for the automatic doors installed at the entrance.” There were a number of requests provided by respondents to make the library even better including funding ongoing maintenance, having additional evening events for young adults, adding evening play time/groups for working parents, and improving protection for patrons and workers. Several respondents suggested adding resources to the library’s collection: gaming consoles available for checkout, western fiction, large print books, and more online books available in Spanish. Two respondents lamented the long wait times for popular items. One person felt that there was a better book section in the past. Library parking is an issue with mixed comments. More respondents commented that they viewed parking as a barrier to library use.
• “Parking can be a problem.”
• “Nearby free parking would be nice.”
• “Additional free parking locations would be useful, as the only alternative to parking alongside the library is to park along the railroad tracks south of the library, requiring a walk that is not desirable in cold winter months.” While another respondent appreciated having free lots within several blocks. “I absolutely love the open hours free parking on Main/by the Library. Cities and Ames (in particular for its size) tend to have a parking problem that stops people like me who may live a distance from the city center from frequenting it. But the parking lot means I can visit the library and my favorite stores whenever I can!” Extending library hours was requested as well. Two people made requests to have extended hours on Sundays. Another respondent requested being open during holidays. There were also several general requests for extended hours. One commented, “Unfortunately when I think of heading to the Library, it is in the evening after dinner and other stuff is done. It’s usually closed by then.” Another suggested, “I think the Library could have a section open at all hours for students to have a quiet place to sit and study. I would prefer more options than just the ISU Library.” A number of ISU students commented that they prefer using the Parks Library because it is more convenient and has most of the resources that they need. Another student commented,” I use Parks Library much more, but the public library is also good.” Here is additional positive response regarding the APL’s study spaces, “I love how they have adult and children areas
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separate. This allows me to study without any distractions. Tables and study spaces are always very clean and well lit! If I do not feel like paying to sit at a coffee shop, I usually go to the Ames Library to work.” A final respondent shared, “I was thrilled I could get a library card, when my home residence is not in IA.” Many respondents commented about the Library being a great community resource, “[I am] very thankful for a place that people can access internet, use a telephone, and get help with issues like filing taxes.” And another respondent commented, “public libraries are a good program and deserve to be funded.” Other respondents feel like the public library is trying to provide too many community services. One respondent commented, “It's an unlicensed daycare/homeless shelter/coffee shop/gaming parlor that's noisy and filled with people sleeping, eating, and running around. I prefer a quiet library where people come to read.” Online books and services were another topic of discussion in the comments. Below are some of the thoughts that were shared.
• “I have "explored" the streaming offerings, but I really haven't had time to use them.”
• “I mainly use APL online - book searches and holds. Very convenient, easy self-checkout, staff friendly if help needed.”
• "I really like the Libby app for reading. It makes it easier for me to access the library's books when I do not have enough time to actually go to the library.”
• “The borrowing times for online books is also more limited than the physical books, which requires renewing the loan more frequently.”
• “I would encourage having even more resources/books available online. I used the online book service during the pandemic. It was easy to use. One limitation of the service is the lack of books in Spanish.” Several respondents provided comments related to the Covid-19 pandemic and how this affected the Library operation and individual users’ Library use:
o During Covid it was closed most of the time. I understand the safety aspect but it was somewhat ironic the public place for people to use internet when they don't have it available at home to them closed down.... so then community members were even more isolated from the rest of the world. Kids who didn't have internet at home couldn't go to school. Workers that needed to work online couldn't work. It was disappointing to see that Ames Library did not find ways to stay open and serve the community that needed them most in this time of need.
o I haven't visited the library as frequently due to Covid concerns
o I love the Ames Public Library. Wish I could spend more time there. I haven't been back except once post-covid/2020.
o We haven't used the library in 2 years due to pandemic. Hope to resume soon. Others indicated that they would like to use the library more,
• “Hope to use library resources more in the future.”
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• “I love the library and all the services & programs. I wish I could attend more.”
• “I love the Ames library, just do not have time to enjoy the services.”
Figure 14. Comments on Ames Public Library
Information Dissemination The next section of the questionnaire focused on residential preferences for City of Ames communications. Respondents were asked to rate the usefulness of City communications sources on a three-point scale: 1- “not useful”, 2 – “somewhat useful”, 3 – “very useful” as well as “don’t use”. Table 23 shows the results. The most frequently used sources for local government information included City of Ames website (70%), Facebook/Twitter/ YouTube (64%), CitySide (utility bill insert) (57%), and ISU Daily newspaper (50%). When asked about the degree of usefulness of those sources, the most useful source was reported to be social media including Facebook/Twitter/YouTube (average of 2.5 on a 1-3 scale). Also, City of Ames website was the most highly used source, and second in terms of usefulness (2.4).
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Table 23. Usefulness of Media Sources for Government Information, 2022 Media Don't Use Percent Use Percent Average*
*1=not useful; 2=somewhat useful; 3=very useful Next, those surveyed were asked to choose one preferred method for communications about construction projects, programs, meetings, and other news in their area. Figure 15 shows that the letter (33%) is the most favored methods of communication, followed by email (30%), City website (11%), and door hanger (10%). The responses varied slightly for ISU students. Email is the best way to communicate (36%), followed by letter (23%), City of Ames website (13%), Facebook (8%), door hanger (7%), Twitter (6%), local newspaper (3%), and local radio (2%).
Figure 15. Preferred method to learn about City services, programs,
or projects, 2022
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Figures 16a&b illustrate trends in the perceived usefulness of City communication sources over a five-year period. Those rankings have stayed generally consistent over the years with slightly variation in average scores this year compared to previous year. Social media followed by the City of Ames website and CitySide newsletter remain the most useful sources of City information. There was a slight increase in the perceived usefulness of the following communication sources of information regarding construction projects, programs and meeting in the city this year compared to last year: KHOI, KASI/KCCQ, DSM Register, The Sun, cable TV12, Facebook/ Twitter/ YouTube, Ames Tribune newspaper, and City Side (utility bill insert). News sources that saw a slight decrease in the perceived usefulness in 2022 were the ISU Daily newspaper, and City of Ames webpage.
Figure 16a. Usefulness of news sources over the past five years (Users only)
Figure 16b. Usefulness of news sources over the past five years (Users only)
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Table 24 indicates the usefulness of various communication tools based on the respondent’s student status. There were some statistically significant differences between student and non-student responses. The prime sources such as social media including Facebook/Twitter/YouTube and City of Ames website and were equally useful to ISU students and non-student residents. Likewise, both groups found KASI/KCCQ radio, Des Moines Register Newspaper similarly useful. CitySide (utility bill insert), Ames Tribune newspaper, and KHOI were also perceived to be important to both groups. Even if their average scores are different from each other, they were not statistically significant. On the other hand, ISU Daily newspaper and Ames Television/Government Access Television were more useful to the ISU students than to non-student respondents at the .05 significance level.
Table 24. Usefulness of news sources for Non-student and ISU students
Information Source Non-student Student Average Facebook/ Twitter/ YouTube City of Ames website
2.2 2.1
The Sun
*Statistically significant at .05 level Note: Average was computed using these values: 1=“not useful”; 2=“somewhat useful”; 3=“very useful”
Ames Television City Channel 12 has been rebranded as Ames Television. This communication tool is available to Mediacom TV subscribers and is streamed from the City’s website. Only about one-fourth (21%) of survey respondents were Mediacom cable TV subscribers. Among the Mediacom subscribers reporting, 76% never watch Ames Television. Table 25 shows that Ames Television has peak viewership between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. (16%). Another 1% responded they watch Ames Television from 6 a.m. to noon. Of the survey respondents who indicated their frequency of watching Ames Television (n=13), 46% percent watched for one hour or less per week and 23% watched two to five hours per week. Only 8% of Ames Televisin viewers responded they are watching five or more hours per week. (Table 26).
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Table 25. Time to watch Ames Television (n =79)
Percent Never watch TV 12 76 Midnight to 6:00 a.m. 1 6:01 a.m. to noon 0 12:01 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. 4 6:01 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. 16 9:01 p.m. to midnight 3
Table 26. Hours per week for those watch Ames Television (n = 13)
Percent 0-1 hour 46 2-3 hours 23 4-5 hours 23 >5 hours 8
City of Ames Website (www.cityofames.org) A significant majority (62%) of the respondents use the City of Ames’ website (https://www.cityofames.org). Of those who reported using the City’s website, the main purposes include checking for checking for notices, updates or news releases (65%), using Ames Public Library account (41%), signing up for Parks and Recreation classes (26%), gathering information for a City Council meeting or other city meeting (16%), and watching a City Council meeting or Ames Television programming on video streaming (6%).
Other uses of City of Ames website:
• City utilities (i.e., pay bill, sign-up) (n=25)
• Parks and rec schedule (ice skating schedule, public facilities, etc.) (6)
• Miscellaneous info/news (n=5)
• Information about city programs and policies (i.e., emergency power outage, city ordinance, local codes) (n=3)
• City calendar and events (i.e. street construction schedule, power outage) (n=3)
• Police report (n=2)
• Ames Animal Shelter (n=1)
• City parks (n=1)
• Property search (1)
• Research (n=1)
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When respondents were asked about other information that should be included on the City of Ames website, the following suggestions were mentioned:
• Update the website
o A reporting section for street issues
o Search option for publicly available digitalized information.
o Data visualization for the available demographic data (reported crimes rates by neighborhood, historical property tax rates, etc.)
o Improve design
o City improvements should be highlighted, such as “click here to see what’s being developed”
o Tax filing details, easier registration for parks rec services
o A regularly updated (and easily searchable) list of improvements, updates, and construction around the city.
o Emergency information - changes; construction updates like new pool
o Current and future construction details
o Information about building permits
• Planning Policy and projects
o Snow ordinance
o Weekly recaps and/or projected timelines of construction projects
o Road closure notice from DOT
o Notices for recreational trail closures
• Utilities
o Registration for electric bill
o Efforts related to improving the health and well-being of families in the area
• Housing
o Average apartment rents in Ames
o Details on costs involved with living in Ames
• Local events
o Local concerts
o Event details
• Weather and Crime Announcement
o Snow alert
o Theft scams alert that are currently going around.
Your Health Respondents were asked to rate their health (both physical and mental health). On a scale of 1 to 5 (1-“poor” and 5- “excellent”), the average rating for physical health was higher than mental health (3.62 and 3.32, respectively). Figure 17 shows the overall health rating of respondents. While the number of respondents rating themselves in “very good” and “excellent” mental and physical health were nearly identical with 56% for physical health and 55% for mental health. There was a sharp contrast between those experiencing “poor” (6%) to” fair” (29%) mental health compared to those reporting “poor” (<1%) to “fair” (9%) physical health.
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Figure 17. Overall health rating
When demographic information of the respondents is correlated to the health ratings (physical versus mental health), several variables had significant relationships. Those who give a higher overall physical health rating were:
• Those living in the northwest and southwest part of town
• Whites Gender, education, age, length of residence, student versus non-student residents had no impact on overall physical health rating.
Those who give a higher overall mental health rating were:
• Non-student,
• Male,
• With graduate degree,
• 65 years and older, and
• With higher incomes ($75,000 to $99,999 and $200,00 or more). The lowest mental health rating was given by those who had:
• An income level of under $25,000,
• Those who have lived in Ames for more than 10 years, and
• Those living in the northwest and southwest part of town. Race had no impact on overall mental health rating.
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Access to Professional Mental Health Services
This year the Ames Community Survey included a new question, “In the past six months, have you felt you needed to access professional mental health services?” Fifty-seven percent of respondents indicated they had not felt the need to access mental health services, while 38% did feel the need to access services and 5% preferred not to answer. As a follow-up question, for those respondents answering yes were asked if they were able to receive the mental health services that they needed. While 43% of those needing mental health services were able to get the help they needed, 42% responded that they were not able to get the help they needed and 15% of respondents preferred not to answer the question.
Please remember, all residents can access the Statewide Crisis Line, 1-855-581-8111, or Text support, 1-
855-895-8398 or visit YourLifeIowa.org. The Crisis Line provides information and referral, counseling,
crisis service coordination, and linkages to crisis screening and mental health services, including
dispatch of the Central Iowa Community Services (CICS) Mobile Response Team, 24-hours a day in
Story County. Additional resources are available that incorporate help with alcohol, drugs, gambling,
as well as mental health and suicidal thoughts.
Physical Activity Survey Respondents were asked about their physical activity in the past week. Six percent (n=21) of the respondents reported that they did not engage in physical activity of 20 minutes or more on any day of the past week. Over half (58%) of respondents reported exercising at least 2-3 days (33%) or 4-5 days (25%) in the past week. One quarter of respondents (27%) exercise for at least 20 minutes or more on six or more days per week. Table 27 compares the physical activity of non-ISU respondents with ISU students. Students reported more physical activity in 1-5 days per week compared to non-students (see Table 27), however non-students reported higher rates of exercise on 6 or more days a week (Non-student 34%, Student 20%). The highest percentage of ISU students (38%) reported spending 2-3 days engaging in physical activity.
Table 27. Number of days engaged in physical activity of 20 minutes or more Frequency of Exercise Student (n=196) Total 0 day 5.3% 5.6% 5.4% 1 day 8.5% 11.2% 9.9% 2-3 days 28.0% 37.8% 33.0% 4-5 days 6 or more days 34.4% 19.9% 27.0% Total 100% 100% 100%
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What would support you in getting in getting more daily physical activity?
Survey respondents were asked to provide suggestions that would encourage them to get more daily physical activity. A handful of respondents indicated that they were already physically active. Another group felt they didn’t need anything. A few others responded that their physical activity was limited due to personal health problems such recent surgery or chronic conditions. Another person commented, “I’m not willing to go to a gym with the Covid pandemic ongoing.” Along with this, a number of people commented they would like less crowded places to workout. A large number responded that time was the greatest barrier to physical activity. Specifically, students commented about having busy schedules, other respondents have too much work, and others mentioned work/life balance challenges. Many responded that having better access (more locations and equipment) to free or affordable facilities would encourage their physical activity. There were a number of comments asking for free or low-cost classes. Here are several examples of comments on this issue:
• “I would like students to have access to gym facilities (such as the Ames Fitness Center), since we already contribute so much to the community. I would appreciate this access since I currently have minimal opportunities at the Veterinary College and main campus is usually full with the undergraduate students.”
• “Free/ low cost evening hour classes.”
• “I think having an easily and cheaply accessible gym or public track on the east side of Ames would benefit the overall health of the Ames community.”
• “More cost-effective options.”
• “More gyms, or cheaper subscription to Ames Fitness.”
• “Expand Planet Fitness.” A number of respondents indicated that Iowa weather often was a limiting factor in their physical activity, especially in the winter. Many commented that they would like more access to indoor facilities during the winter, access to an indoor pool (both for lap swimming and aqua exercise classes), and an indoor walking track. Several people suggested building a community recreational facility. There were various comments in support of a new indoor municipal pool. Here is one example, “I swim a lot. The City closed its’ Municipal pool and there is no other good pool outside of the university. Ames Fitness has a pool, but it is hot and not well maintained. The university pool is nice but has terrible hours. Because the hours are so limiting, the pool can also be very crowded. Having more hours of the university pool and not having a gap in municipal pool construction would help me get more daily physical activity.” There were also a number of other facilities and features that people suggested might encourage their level of physical activity including a roller-skating rink, additional tennis courts, indoor tennis courts, more disc golf courses, addition dog-friendly places (besides the dog park), more green space, more fitness classes, native species parks, more nature trails, more parks for walking like Ada Hayden, and dirt trails. Several people requested more public ice-skating time at the ice arena. Respondents also suggested additional classes in the community such as fencing classes, high quality martial arts classes, more senior programming, more classes after 6pm, and expanded open gym hours at the community center, ISU rec centers, or alternative sites. Another person suggested that
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they would like early morning busses. Another common theme was improving the trail network and infrastructure for biking, running, and walking. Suggested improvements included adding more bike paths in West Ames, better bike connections throughout the city to allow for better commuting and grocery trips as well as leisure, better maintained sidewalks for walkers, more off-road paved paths for biking and pedestrians, improved bike trails and bike lanes, and connecting Ames trails to the High Trestle Trail. Several walkers also commented that safety was a concern - here is one such example, “more walking options around Ames that feel safe to a young college girl.” Several respondents suggested that they would be encouraged to get more physical activity if there were more community-wide fitness initiatives such as races, competitions, adventure sport events and free outdoor classes. Also, along these same lines, some people requested a workout community and workout plans. Others suggested needing to get personally motivated. Another respondent suggested,”…companies could give money to their employees who do not drive to work.” Several respondents also requested more information and public outreach about trails, parks, and recreational events through CitySide or other community news outlets. Another person commented that it would be nice to have a listing of area gyms and their prices.
Healthy Eating
Eating fruits and vegetables adds nutrients to diets, reduces the risk for heart disease, stroke, and some cancers, and helps manage body weight when consumed in place of more energy-dense foods https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/wr/mm7101a1.htm. Depending on their age and sex, federal guidelines recommend that adults eat at least 1½ to 2 cups per day of fruit and 2 to 3 cups per day of vegetables as part of a healthy diet. Survey respondents were asked to estimate the number of fruit and vegetable servings they consumed in the past seven days. Most of the respondents ate fruits and vegetables in the last seven days. A small minority of respondents reported not eating any fruits (4%) and vegetables (3%) in the past seven days. Of the respondents in the survey, most respondents (32%) reportedly had fruits 1-3 times in the last seven days and vegetables 4 to 6 times per week (36%). Thirty-nine percent of respondents indicated that they consumed fruit daily in the past 7 days, while only 34% of respondents eat fruit daily as shown in Figure 18.
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Figure 18. Number of times fruit and vegetables were eaten during the past 7 days
Community Gardens The survey also asked respondents to gauge their interest in community gardens. On a scale of scale of 1 to 5 (1 -“not interested at all”, 2 – “somewhat not interested”, 3 – “uncertain”, 4 – “somewhat interested”, 5 – “very interested”), the average value is 2.69 (indicating an uncertain level of interest). Forty-six percent were not interested (“not interested at all” and “somewhat not interested” combined) in getting involved in community garden, 16% were “uncertain”, and 38% were interested (“somewhat interested” and “very interested” combined). Those who were more interested in community gardens were:
• Younger respondents,
• Short-term residents,
• ISU students,
• Income under $25,000,
• Living in Southwest Ames,
• Homemaker,
• Female, and
• Renter However, their views on community gardens were not affected by race (whites versus non-whites), and education.
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Sense of Community For the fifth year, the survey included a question asking about the respondent’s perception of connection with the community. Sense of community is a feeling that members have of belonging, a
feeling that members matter to one another and to the group, and a shared faith that members' needs will be met through their commitment to be together (McMillan, 1976) https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/e5fb/8ece108aec36714ee413876e61b0510e7c80.pdf. A clear and empirically validated understanding of sense of community can provide the foundation for lawmakers and planners to develop programs that meet their stated goals by strengthening and preserving community. Figure 19 shows that in 2022, more than one-third (35%) of the respondents reported to know about half or more of their neighbors. This is a slight increase from 34% in 2021, but down from 57% in 2019. When the numbers are examined by student and non- student populations, 16% of the students reported knowing about half or more of their neighbors compared to 58% of non-students. This year, only 4% of non-student respondents reported that they didn’t know any of their neighbors compared to 31% of the student population. In 2021, 9% of non- students didn’t know any of their neighbors compared to 32% for ISU students.
Figure 19. Neighbors you Know
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On a scale of 1 to 5 (1 – “not at all strong” to 5 – “extremely strong”), respondents were asked to rate their perceived level of sense of community in their neighborhood. Looking at the average score, the sense of the community by all respondents was 2.5 (2.9 for non- students and 2.1 for students). Combining the “extremely strong” and “very strong” responses, only 15% of all respondents felt that the sense of community in their neighborhood is strong, but when divided by students and non-students there was a noticeable difference (25% non-students felt a strong sense of community compared to 5% of students), see Figure 20. On a scale of 1 to 5 (1 - “not at all strong” to 5 – “extremely strong”), the strength of the sense of community was viewed differently by demographic groups:
• ISU student vs non-student residents: non-student (2.87) compared to ISU students (2.14)
• Home ownership: owner (2.93) compared to renter (2.10)
• Race: Whites (2.57) compared to Non-whites (2.02)
• Household income: the higher the household income, the higher is the sense of community
• Employment: retired had stronger sense of community compared to other employment status
• Education: stronger sense of community for those with graduate degree (2.74)
• Length of residence: Long-term residents had stronger sense of community than short- term residents
• Age: Older respondents had a stronger sense of community compared to younger respondents
• Residence geography: SW residents had weakest sense of community (2.30), followed by SE (2.34), NW (2.62) and lastly NE (2.86)
• Gender: no difference
Figure 20. Sense of community in the neighborhood
Respondents responded to a series of statements regarding community involvement. Table 28 summarizes the responses. When asked if “issues facing my community are important to me,” 76% agreed (somewhat agree/strongly agree), which significantly dropped from 92% in 2021. Only half
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of the respondents (50%) indicated that they were knowledgeable about issues facing their community, compared to 71% of respondents from the 2021 survey. Less than one-third (30%) of those surveyed reported that they are engaged in addressing the issues in the community. Less than one-quarter (24%) of respondents indicated that they currently volunteer for a nonprofit organization serving the city. However, over half of respondents (52%) contributed financially as a sign of support. When asked if they serve on the Board of Directors for a non-profit organization, only 7% indicated that they were board members.
Table 28. Community Involvement
Community Involvement Issues Strongly disagree/ Somewhat Disagree Somewhat Agree/ Strongly Agree Average
me (n=371) my community. (n=363) with financial contributions. (n=365) community. (n=363) nonprofit organization serving the
nonprofit organization serving the City of Ames (n=335)
Table 29 shows the demographic characteristics of the respondents who were likely to be involved in community activities. Older respondents and homeowners were likely to get involved in all the six community activities mentioned. Issues facing the community are important to long-term residents. Long-term residents were also more knowledgeable about the issues facing the community; more likely be engaged in addressing the issues of the community; and would currently support nonprofit organization with financial contributions. Respondents with household incomes in the $150,000–$199,999 range are reportedly engaged in addressing community issues, while respondents in the $125,000–$149,999 household income range support nonprofit organizations with financial contributions. Residents living in the northeast part of the city reported being knowledgeable about issue facing the community and supporting nonprofits with financial contributions. Residents living in northwest Ames indicated that they care about issues facing their community.
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Table 29. Community involvement by demography
Age Length of Residence Income owner Residence
community are important to me (n=371) or more
about the issues facing my community (n=363) or more
addressing the issues of my community (n=363)
nonprofit organization with financial $149,999
Board of Directors for a nonprofit organization serving the City of Ames or more
a nonprofit organization serving the City of Ames (n=348)
Sense of Belonging
The survey asked respondents to indicate their level agreement with six statements regarding community integration and sense of belonging to the Ames community. Respondents were asked to respond to six statements were on a 5-point scale (1 – “strongly disagree,” 2 – “somewhat disagree,” 3 – “uncertain,” 4 – “somewhat agree,” 5 – “strongly agree”) as well as the option “don’t know.” Table 30 shows that respondents feel that the City of Ames has the attributes for community integration. Respect and sense of belonging were felt by majority of the respondents. Eighty-two percent of the respondents felt that they were treated with respect in Ames, followed by feeling that they belong in this town (71%). The city has the social infrastructure for community integration such as:
• Ames has a strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion (67%),
• Ames is a place where they could perform up to their full potential (65%),
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• There are one or more organizations in this town where respondents feel they belong (63%), and
• I feel valued as an individual in the Ames community (61%) The average value shown in Table 30 ranges from 3.5 to 4.1 indicating that the respondents agree that those integration/sense of belonging measures are present and/or being observed in the city.
Table 30. Community Integration and Sense of Belonging
Issues Strongly disagree/ Somewhat Disagree Somewhat Agree/ Strongly Agree
Average
my full potential (n=375) town where I feel I belong (n=360)
Table 31 shows that there are some differences in the integration/sense of belonging measures by demography. Due to small sample sizes of other races (Black, American Indian, Asian, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander and other), this was grouped as non-whites. Thus, race was analyzed as White versus Non-whites. Older, long-term residents, homeowners, and whites felt more integrated to the city. See Table 31 for specific details. Respondents with a household income of $150,000 to $199,999 felt they belong in this town, felt valued as an individual in the Ames community, and thinks the City of Ames has a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Those with higher income ($200,000 or more) felt the city is a place where they could perform their full potential. Perception was the same regardless of geographic residences of the respondents in five out of the six measures. The exception was that those living in southeast Ames feel that Ames is a place where they could perform to their full potential. Perception was the same regardless of gender.
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Table 31. Community integration and sense of belonging demography Age Length of Residence ownership Residence
individual in the Ames community (n=358) 199,999
town (n=374) 199,999 commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (n=361) 199,999
respect at this town (n=374) where I could perform up to my full potential (n=375) or more
more organizations in this town where I feel I belong (n=360)
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) This is the first year that the following an open-ended question appeared on the survey, “What could the City of Ames do to demonstrate its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)?” Around 80% of those surveyed (282 respondents) responded to this question. The responses varied widely along a range of topics. Fifteen percent of respondents were satisfied with the existing efforts the City is doing towards DEI efforts. Acknowledging the effort of the City, one commented, “I am pleased to see all colors, all nationalities, mildly disabled or not employed at certain businesses in Ames, i.e., Walmart, McDonalds, etc.” Another respondent added, “Ames does a lot right now. Just keep it up and don't stop fighting as the State tries to limit what we can do to foster this ideal.” One-fourth (25%) of the respondents emphasized the importance of a welcoming environment that is inclusive for all including disabled, LGTBQ+, BIPOC, and racial and cultural minorities. The respondents also feel that the marginalized and poor people also need attention.
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Several suggestions are provided to acknowledge the diversity in an inclusive manner, some of which are listed below:
• Speak out more about issues involving these topics
• Look into diversity organizations such as the NAACP here in Ames that can guide the City of Ames on the changes needed. Become a welcoming area for black businesses as I have not heard of a black-owned business here in Ames
• Make it a safer environment for more families of color
• More bathrooms for transgender people
• Quit race-baiting and focus on intellectual and background diversity, not race or gender
• Race and gender don’t matter. The individual matters.
• Hire more people with diverse backgrounds
• Improve relationship with students
• Use more resources to support marginalized groups and poor people.
• Support the ACSD in their efforts to commit to DEI
• Allow foreign residents to vote on local matters Another 20% of respondents recommended celebrating different cultural festivals, innovative events, and social gatherings to welcome and engage different groups of people. Suggested events included a pride parade, a community celebration, a social gathering, a small block party, and multi-cultural events. Small-group neighborhood clubs such as walking clubs or biking clubs are also recommended by the respondents. Offering incentives or low-cost opportunities for marginalized people is encouraged. Inclusive programs could target homeowners, apartment dwellers, and renters was mentioned by a respondent. Consider supporting community-led programming such as the Reliable Street Collective in its mission to educate and create free programs for diversity, equity, and inclusion. A handful of respondents (6%) suggested more affordable housing and increased investment in low-income housing. Another comment emphasized equity by restricting single family homes and profit driven rental properties. Other recommendations include:
• Provide more community services like childcare, free school lunches for all, etc.
• Better inform people about the City’s efforts
• Early education
• Enforce current laws
• Hold those who commit acts of sexual violence accountable
• More things like the rainbow sidewalk!
• Raise minimum wage, and
• The paths on the sidewalks that are supposed to be used for people with disabilities are never cleaned of ice or anything, making them unusable if you had a wheelchair. Another 7% feel that the city should not encourage diversity, equity, and inclusion-related initiatives. One comment representing this viewpoint stated, “Stop creating divisive
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policies. Equity is not fully achievable. You cannot guarantee equal outcomes, but only opportunity. Make that clear. DEI will disregard things that some will not agree with, but it does not make it invalid. Listen to everyone. Too many individuals get shut out and then we have a negative feedback loop. Someone does not feel heard.” Another respondent shared that DEI it is a natural process, and everyone just needs to treat everyone else with dignity and respect. A final respondent suggested concentrating on promoting excellence in citizens; recognizing citizens who are doing great things in the community and inspiring everyone to work hard and do their best rather than concentrate on these. Some other respondents (11%) don’t have any idea what can be done. Some of them believe it’s definitely a good idea to accommodate diversity, equity, and inclusion, but they are uncertain about the activities the City of Ames should undertake in this regard.
Figure 21. Suggestion on how the City of Ames could demonstrate its commitment to diversity,
equity, and inclusion
Recycling An additional section about recycling was added to this year’s survey to gauge respondents’ attitudes toward adding recycling services. The City of Ames has used a waste-to-energy process to make refuse derived fuel (RDF) out of garbage since 1975. The RDF is co-burned with natural gas in the Ames Power Plant to create electricity. Some items thrown in the trash are non-burnable or high moisture items, and they make poor fuel. Survey respondents were asked if they were willing to sort (or currently do so) certain types of garbage. The survey found that overall, most respondents indicated a willingness to sort certain products from their garbage. Respondents were least willing to sort organics from their garbage with 48% indicating they were not willing to sort organic material from their garbage. Glass is the waste product that is currently sorted at 34%, the highest percentage of any waste product. Over sixty percent of respondents indicated a willingness to sort plastic (65%), metal (64%), and paper (62%) from their garbage.
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Table 32. Respondents Preferences for Sorting Waste Types from Their Garbage
Plastic (N=364) 64.8% 15.7% 19.5% Glass (N=381) 54.9% 11.0% 34.1% Metal (N=364) 64.0% 19.8% 16.2% Organics (N=352) 38.4% 48.3% 13.4% Paper (N=143) 62.2% 21.0% 16.8% Next survey respondents were asked their preferred method of disposal of sorted waste with options including: 1) no-charge centralized drop-off, 2) curbside collection for a fee, 3) willingness to participate in either program, 4) not interested, and 5) other. See Table 33 for results. People would prefer no-charge but would be willing to participate in curbside collection as well. ”Other” comments included numerous people asking for free curbside recycling or having recycling bins outside apartments for collection. Additional comments included co-mingling recycling as well as ideas for residential recycling collection points and including the recycling collection fee in the property tax. There was a general agreement that respondents would not like to have another fee imposed especially if they are being asked to sort their waste. See appendix for full comments. Currently 15% of respondent (57 of 373) are paying to have curbside recycling service through their garbage hauler.
Table 33. Preferred Method of Disposing of Sorted Waste Items
Method Percentage No-charge Centralized Drop-off (N=114) 30.5% Curbside Collection for a fee (N=86) 23.0% Would participate in either one (N=115) 30.7% Not Interested (N=41) 11.0% Other (N=18) 4.8%
City of Ames Overall Service Quality Each year survey respondents are asked to give an overall evaluation of the quality of services they receive from the City of Ames as well as provide any additional comments. This year, 37% of respondents provided a “very good” rating, a slight decrease from last year (41% in 2021). The
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number of respondents rating the City of Ames as “good” was 56% in 2021 and 60% in 2022. When the positive (“good” and “very good”) ratings are combined, 97% of Ames residents ranked their overall satisfaction with city services as “good” or “very good”, which is the same as 2021 (Figure 22).
Figure 22. Trends in overall satisfaction with City of Ames service quality (good/very
good)
Best thing about living in Ames
There was a total of 392 people who responded to the open-ended question of the “Best thing about living in Ames,” some providing multiple responses. Responses discussed many things that make Ames a great place to live. Some of the top reasons people like living in Ames include safety, diversity, cleanliness, access to parks, small town feeling with big city amenities, convenience, having Iowa State University in the community, and the people. For full comments, please refer to the appendix. Adjectives describing the city include safe, accessible, progressive, liberal, clean, quiet, nice, peaceful, quaint, beautiful, and tranquil. Several people commented that Ames is a good place to raise a family. Respondents note the low crime rate and safety. The people, community, and city leaders are among the best parts of living in Ames. Respondents also discussed diversity and cultural attractiveness. Many respondents remarked that residents are friendly, welcoming, and have a sense of community. A number of people discussed how much they appreciate having access to many parks as well as bike trails and paths and other recreational opportunities. Said one, “My favorite thing is not only the number of outdoor trails and parks but also how safe they are.” Another respondent provided additional comments about recreation, “The opportunities to participate in a wide variety of outdoor activities. I appreciate the golf courses, skating rink, and trails that are available for us to use.”
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There were numerous comments regarding Iowa State University and its positive contribution and connections to the Ames community. ISU sports, activities, and the recreation center were commonly mentioned. Some appreciated the size and cultural diversity of the ISU community. Other respondents appreciate the academic community, campus atmosphere, and trees on the campus. Living in a college town is an asset to many of the respondents. A respondent commented, “…The presence of the university injects a wealth of diversity into the area that is desperately needed.” Others described Ames as a smaller city with big city amenities, resources, and activities. Public transportation (CyRide), Ames Public Library, schools, the farmer’s market, local businesses, quality health care, and Main Street (downtown) were among the most mentioned features of the city. Respondents appreciated the quantity and diversity of options in activities and restaurants that are offered in Ames. Other best things about living in Ames include the water quality, prompt response to storms and snow, availability of retail facilities, the living cost, low traffic, and city upkeep.
Figure 24. Best things about living in Ames
Other Issues the City Should Focus On The survey asked respondents if there were other issues that the City should focus attention. There were 269 responses. Figure 23 shows the visual presentation of the responses using a word cloud. A common issue mentioned is traffic control and flow, as expressed in this comment, “Traffic. The constant back-ups and high frequency of traffic lights make my commute longer and more dangerous than needed”. Another respondent suggested traffic flow improvement, particularly on the south side.
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Other road-related issues mentioned include the need to improve roads and snow removal. Many comments are mentioned about road improvement and repair, highlighting the 7th street, 13th street, and Grand Avenue intersection, the intersection of Main and Clark, and 6th street. Snow removal comments mostly focused on keeping the sidewalk clear for walking. Some respondents revealed disappointment in the snow removal process in residential streets, and one commented, “I would like the city to consider some means of snow removal from residential streets instead of plowing the snow into resident driveways.” There were also comments about the slow timing of snow removal. Many respondents discussed the need to make Ames more walkable and bikeable by creating more sidewalks, and walking and biking trails. One comment specifies the location: “Put a walking path along the Ioway Creek project!” Improving sidewalks in older neighborhoods, pedestrian safety, and bike safety were also topics of discussion. One response suggested improving pedestrian safety at Grand and 6th street. Another respondent suggested improving the walkability of South Duff Street. Some people commented on parking issues, particularly in Campustown and ISU. One resident in a near-campus neighborhood asked, “…Can we purchase parking passes that exempt us (from parking regulations)?” One suggested increasing parking lots in Downtown. There were other comments on allowing free parking for students in Downtown to incentivize business use. Free public transportation is another topic that emerged from the responses. Several respondents are satisfied with the CyRide service. Improvements that could make it better include adding more routes, more sheltered bus stops, and a greater coverage area. There were many comments concerning the lack of affordable housing. Several comments gave specifics about affordable housing for lower income, “low-income housing to eradicate homelessness,” and “the severe lack of affordable housing (either for sale or for rent) makes it difficult to justify living in Ames.” Another respondent shared: “No one should be sleeping on the streets in this city, but, unfortunately, I see it too often. We need to do better in making sure that every last individual has a roof over their head.” Another housing issue mentioned by some respondents is the need for rental inspections. One comment that summarizes the issue is “…the near total lack of accountability for landlords provides little recourse for unethical/illegal treatment of tenants.” Other comments focused on improving run-down houses, in-fill housing construction on the available empty lots, and enforcing landlord laws. Another well-discussed topic by a number of respondents was City planning and planning for the future. Comments included ideas such as "mixed-use zoning," "human scale buildings and roads," "infill growth," "green technology and practices," "good density," and "reduced sprawling." Among these, infill development on the vacant lots was the most discussed topic. Several respondents raised concerns about climate change and global warming. Fifteen people made comments regarding climate change actions, mitigation, and renewables. As climate adaptive actions, respondents emphasized the city recycling program, waste
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disposal system, and the use of alternative energy sources. “Electricity power packs should be a huge focus,” – mentioned one respondent. Another respondent comments on taking necessary actions towards sustainability. One response is to “switch to more sustainable energy and re-evaluate current waste disposal practices.” Some respondents also emphasize urban agriculture and tree planting. Local food production is also discussed in one comment. Another comment was, “…. I was upset when you chopped down so many trees around the dog park. I also really want Ames to quit sending so much garbage to the Boone County landfill.” Another theme was a greater focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. While some responses focused on social equity initiatives, some responded to encourage diversity, LGBTQA, and inclusion and create a vibrant, diverse community atmosphere. Suggestions included a more disable-friendly and handicap-accessible environment. Appreciating the City’s role, one respondent wrote, “Racial diversity, LGBTQA+ inclusion ... Overall I feel Ames does a good job with this, but it is important to me to live in a community that always strives to be leaders in these areas.” Economic development and redevelopment were other topics frequently mentioned in the comments. Improving Downtown and bringing more industry and business to Ames are highlighted in the responses. Main Street development and hotel construction near Downtown are suggested to foster business. One person suggested, “keep funding Downtown. The addition of businesses like Dog-Eared Books, Treats on a Leash, the Farmers’ Market, and the Z.W. Mercantile have been amazing additions to life in Ames.” Another comment, “…continue commitment to Downtown to attract young professionals to this community.” Another response suggested, “Allow the area near campus to actually develop. That massive empty lot looks terrible, and it could actually bring in money and providing entertainment/ competition for existing businesses.” Some comments focused on small businesses. One respondent questioned the reality of a business-friendly city, “Many Ames small-business owners tell me the City is not business friendly. Why is that? Perhaps you should ask them.” This year, several comments asked the City to decrease the police budget and fire rescue. Along a similar topic, reallocating resources from policing to other social services and infrastructure was another idea expressed in the comments. Some of the respondents reveal frustration with police. Several comments focused on improvements to public safety and crime prevention. Safe roads are emphasized in the responses. Respondents felt that the city should have a greater city focus; violent crime, sexual assault, theft prevention, and murder rate were other areas of concern. Two of the respondents suggested decriminalizing cannabis. Respondents raised a number of topics related to social concerns. Several comments focused on improving education at different levels, from K-12 school to STEM education. Respondents encouraged introducing more educational programs for younger children. Other social needs included more gathering spaces (multi-use rec, community center, dining) and entertainment for various groups (families, middle-aged people, students, etc.).
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City beautification was also a topic of discussion. A handful of people provided comments about creating and using more green space. One respondent commented, “more green space in the city and fewer apartments intermingled in residential areas.” Tree planting and park remodeling are also suggested in the comments. One comments, “…very sad about all the trees taken out on the east side of the creek. Would have been a beautiful park or something for people to take their food and eat.” Comments also suggested enforcing property upkeep laws. There were other suggestions for recreational amenities and improvements, including an indoor and outdoor pool, more parks, community arts, and recreational activities. There were a number of other comments on various topics the city could focus on lowering utility costs, reducing taxes, mental health outreach, and fiber optic internet. Several respondents commented that they appreciate the city services.
Figure 24. Other issues the city should focus
General/ Additional Comments
Respondents were also asked about any additional comments. A total of 337 respondents answered this question. One of the most discussed topics was road and traffic-related issues. Respondents want the City to focus on road improvement and maintenance, traffic flow maintenance, traffic signal and parking issues, and transportation. Main streets, 13th street, Grand Avenue, and all the intersections need proper maintenance and management. One respondent complained about the bad parking meter on 6th Street and Douglas. The City should also focus on improving bike routes and free public transportation.
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Other discussion topics focused on increasing amenities in parks, affordable housing, development, and redevelopment. A handful number of respondents shared their concerns about living in a college town. Other respondents had concerns about the school system, crime, service towards disabled and marginalized people. A good share of respondents appreciated Ames for being a great city to live in, and others appreciated the work required to make Ames a better place. One respondent suggested breaking the survey into two parts to get more responses. Another respondent suggested taking the survey answers seriously and acting accordingly.
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APPENDIX 2022
Comments on City of Ames Services
• Road and Traffic Management
o Fix the traffic lights! Add dedicated left turn lanes! Make another S Duff/S University connecting road
o Traffic in the SCAN neighborhood on Cessna is intense and needs management.
o Please maintain the roads better. Potholes this time of year are brutal. PLEASE consider resurfacing major thoroughfares (Lincoln Way, Duff, Grand, Stange, University) in Ames. It is very hard on vehicles, especially older ones.
• More biking paths
o Could use more bike paths that actually lead to the university
o More bike paths
• Transportation
o Hope the bus service is more frequent and cheaper or no charge. Could consider smaller vehicle during the non-rush hours such as a 20 or more few people capacity
o I think I use the CyRide more than any other service in Ames continuously and they can definitely spread out their timings of arrival at various stops. I end up having to wait for 45 minutes for the next bus at a particular stop. Especially the red and green buses can be spaced out in timings.
o More transit options. Less forced car dependency.
o More investment in transportation other than personal vehicles (e.g., bike trails, bus system)
o Would like CyRide to add routes north of Bloomington Road
o Would like more electric or hybrid CyRide. Want more community discussions surrounding police and communities, esp. involving City Council.
o Officers need to follow some traffic laws. Stop texting and driving. Tree roots on Ash are ruining sewers.
• Housing
o Keep rental out of neighborhood and in campus area only. Enforce landlords to upkeep their property – lawn, weeding, house repair/maintenance
o Houses that don't have yard upkeep – one on Duff near 13th St. and 4-way stop. Brown house in the corner near Duff and many others that appear abandoned
• Recreation and other Amenities
o Ames has a great assortment of recreational opportunities for all
o The head of Parks & Rec is exceptionally tone deaf and insensitive.
o We need a roller skate rink
o Parks & recreation: Need a couple enclosed shelters. Ice Arena: some sort of seating that could be reserved seating, better heat control, replacing burned out light bulbs especially on scoreboard, better sound system, open concession, better choice of food at concessions
o ATM machine
• Zoning and Development
o A civil engineer was desperately needed in the past. The layout and zoning of the city is somewhat strange. Entrances on Duff are a disaster. Mixed use near Campustown has been a plus
o More mixed-use zoning developments. Why is every house and most apartments so far from any grocery store or business?
o More green space and less farm and commercial areas. Enforcing the construction of vertical structures for current or future businesses would be a good start.
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• Crime and Safety
o Prevent desperation and crime might just go down
o When I had a break-in, no fingerprint was taken, some creep got away with it
• Utility Services
o Wish electric services were less dependent on fossil fuels. Disappointed at phase out of burning trash to generate electricity
o Chemicals in water
o Unaware of paying power bill online
o The deposit for turning on water is ABSURD
o I have had trouble with some employees when calling for utility help. They gave me wrong information saying I had already paid fully for that month’s utilities because of previous over payment. This caused me to miss the payment. I called again to discuss this and they denied this and made me pay a hefty fee anyways. This was over 6 months ago but greatly bothered me. I also think there should be a way to log in and see what you need to pay for utilities because I was gone for a month last year for knee surgeries in Kansas City and almost missed a bill because I didn't know when it had been delivered in the mail to me since I was not in town. I only was able to figure this out by calling.
• Others
o Fireworks at 4th of July are a huge problem
o Focus less on policing and throw money at public services to improve the community
o Not enough effort is being made to restore animal habitats in the city limits
o Overall, Ames touts itself as a very "progressive" and forward-thinking community and while this may be true relative to other areas in Iowa and the country, I think we have a long way to go in fully realizing that vision.
o Very expensive place to live, will be leaving quickly to move to a lower taxed city
o Public nuisance enforcement – not a priority in my opinion, try to help people more instead of punishing them
o Needs more sense of community and to get college students to care about the city.
o Call us when responding to a call. Didn’t want to deal with it or pursue charges. Totally changed my view of Ames Police Department
• Appreciation
o Great city with great services! (x2)
o Reliable services
o Good upkeep/good job (x2)
o Mostly a very well-run city. Keep up the good work! (x2)
o The City of Ames is a very progressive city and I have really enjoyed living here. If I could get my company to have an office in Ames, I would stay here in a heartbeat.
o Very impressed with defibrillation, CPR and other safety programs led by Fire Dept in the past
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Comments on Police Department activities
• Driving/Traffic Violation Comments
o Running red lights is a problem. They need to write more tickets
o Few drivers seem to signal left turns properly. Signals are often not used until driver is in act of turning. Also, use of "bright lights" inside a city is against the law, but many drivers constantly drive with high lights on and never warned or ticketed. Also, lights set to a too high, too low, too far left, etc. should also be ticketed.
o Cars speed all the way up & down Northwestern at all hours. No patrolling. Too many university rental houses in each neighborhood which brings noise, drunkenness, and trespassing and brings down property owner house values.
o Would like more police presence in residential neighborhoods to limit speeding. We live in south campus neighborhood
o Some people are driving way too fast down Lincoln Way. As a pedestrian most of the time, I would feel a lot safer if that was controlled a bit more.
• Drug/Alcohol Comments
o Do not let meth and cocaine dealers get a foothold in Ames. Run them out of Ames
o Marijuana should be legal – please don't waste my tax dollars locking people up for a harmless activity
o Remove cannabis-related crimes. Some emphasis on bicycle gangs.
o For alcohol – really should not go after pedestrians just walking home.
o Please use more discretion in enforcing public drunkenness laws. These are violated BY EVERYONE on Welch but only a few end up being ticketed. At best, the enforcement of these laws are differential, at worst they are discriminatory. I would also like to see more emphasis on catching bad traffic behavior – weaving/speeding/ignoring stop signs.
• Investigate Killings
o Find the killer of Scott Lograsso. I hear it was a drug deal gone bad and the police don’t care. Do your job!
o The total lack of information to the public about the murder at the Elks Club was unresponsive & lacked accountability
• Little Interaction with Police
o I have had very little interaction with Ames Police. They have a strong presence with parking enforcement and game-day related activities.
o I haven't really had contact with anyone from the police department here. I have been surprised how many people get away with heavy underage drinking here compared to my last university.
o It is really difficult to answer the question since I have little interaction with the police and I don't know what their current priorities are.
o little exposure and seems things are fine.
• Mental Health Comments
o I wish there was a mental health tract to handle non-violent calls.
o Instituting a non-violent crime crisis prevention/mediation response team would help to reduce burden placed on police department and increase access to substance abuse treatment and general counseling.
o What is being done to work with community advocates and mental health professionals for non-violent police calls? What is being done in terms of de-escalation and connecting people to services when it comes to emotional/behavioral, mental illness, and family conflict types of calls? PLEASE consider MPACT and please read more about this incredible intervention strategy: https://www.yss.org/mpact/
o When possible, for things like youth and family dispute issues a certified/trained/licensed psychologist should be consulted. Certain areas of the city
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should be reevaluated if the speed limit should be increased or decreased as there are several areas that are either too slow or too fast.
o Would like to know more about how APD deals with mental health emergencies, coordination, and mental health care +YSS, etc.
• More Crime Reporting
o I think awareness is more important and crimes that happen in the city can be broadcasted more and update on why/when/where it happened can be more clear.
o Don’t really know much about the Ames Police and how they serve but I don’t really have any complaints. I wish they would post more statistics about the cases they have to know what is going on in the community more.
• More Crime Prevention
o I feel like the community would benefit from more crime prevention work, especially related to sexual assault or abuse. The college community is a large part of Ames, and there are many crimes related to these issues. It would be awesome to see sexual assault prevention training targeted towards aggressors, not just for women on how to escape.
o More investment in crime prevention programs (or social welfare programs) and stop harassing the working class.
• Other Comments
o Ames Police Department has demonstrated its commitment to forward thinking and I would like to recognize that. They have been great at community outreach and involvement. While some of this emphasis falls on their colleagues at ISUPD, I would like to see an increase in sex-related offenses investigations and aid in trying to put an end to it. I have had more emails come through this school year about sexual assaults than any other year I have been at ISU by far. While a fair amount of these occur on campus, I know they also occur off campus as well. I also know that not every assault gets reported. A focus on outreach efforts for victims would be a good addition. I would also like to recognize Ames Police Department for its commitment to a greener community and congratulate it on nearly completing the switchover to a hybrid patrol fleet. This will greatly improve emissions within the community and also better utilizes Ames tax dollars with the savings on fuel and maintenance. Ames Police Department is a leader and proving that a greener fleet is possible while maintaining its level of service.
o Ames police are nice enough but when it comes to sexual assault on and off campus very little is done.
o Finding permanent resident constantly who live on Ash is out of control
o Homelessness seems to be an ongoing issue
o I am annoyed at the number of people who disregard the pet leash law, simply open the door and let the dog loose or let them run free in parks
o I would like to see a reduction of the police force here in Ames, in budget, size, and influence. The funding should be redistributed to other sectors of the local government that provide material assistance to residents, i.e. support for housing, food assistance, and medical care, among other things. Crime is prevented by ensuring that individuals' needs are met and strengthening community ties. I do not see that police officers contribute to those areas. Overall, I think the presence of the police department has a negative effect on our community in Ames.
o I think the police have too much to do. Other groups should help, e.g., animal control, domestic dispute resolution.
o Quit pulling punches and enforce the law equally. Stop failing to enforce the law because you believe that one group is “over represented.” If someone breaks the law, make sure they are punished for their crimes. I don’t care what their skin color or name is. Just enforce the law. That’s your job.
• Parking/Ticketing
o As there is a limit to parking in the same location on residential streets, it can be
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expected that this be enforced. However, there have been instances where parking in a location for 6 hours overnight has resulted in a warning about towing, instead of the 24 hours warning expected. Additionally, the stickers used are not removable except with the strongest adhesive removers, and cause difficulty with visibility when driving to locations to purchase the adhesive remover. A suggestion would be to chalk the tires before issuing the warning, and using an easier to remove warning indication on the window. The enforcement of jaywalking and running a red light is necessary, as these instances are potentially fatal habits that some drivers in Ames adhere to.
o I am very frustrated that there is a cop car on my street every single day handing out parking tickets for parking in driveways and covering the sidewalk when there are real problems to worry about.
o I have gotten too many parking tickets from them.
o I think the parking division is ridiculous. I don’t understand the purpose of needing to pay to park just to be at my friend’s house for a couple hours? It seems this is the most enforced law in all of Ames that doesn’t even matter? Spend your time monitoring other things. Thanks!
o Ames has a ridiculous amount of meter maids for a parking problem that doesn't really exist. Then I see (expletive deleted) like 801 day in the middle of quarantine (I get they're allowed to be there, I mean the rampant underage drinking and getting harassed as a pedestrian) and no one bats an eye.
o The parking is overkill. Put resources toward something else
• Positive Comments
o Don’t defund the police.
o Good people
o Good work.
o I always feel safe in my home, I often seen patrolling cars and that gives me safety outdoors and at night
o I personally thank our Ames Police Department for their service to our community.
o I think our police do a great job.
o I think the police do an excellent job
o Satisfactory
o They seem to do a fine job
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Comments on Fire Department activities
• General Comments
o I like the idea of the Knox boxes.
o My smoke detector goes off sometimes when steaming broccoli
o Good department
o Great department
o I appreciate everything they all do to assist everyone in this city.
• Positive Experience
o Did excellent job retrieving a pet bird in neighborhood when it escaped from owner's home.
o Had fire department out a few times when my father had medical problems. They were great – very kind & knowledgeable.
o Instance at my home when concerned about carbon monoxide. Two came to my home checked level. So thankful for their quick response and help. Just having them show concern was important to me
• Negative Example
o They were quick to arrive for fires but not all of them know how to disarm the fire alarm when the fire is not harmful. I had a painful ear experience in my apartment because they took a while to disarm it.
• Inspections
o Standards seem to vary depending on the inspector. Some requirements are too stringent, example small table in an apt hall has been there for 16 years; EMTs had been there with stretcher and no problems, new inspector required it to be removed. Also, chairs by the wall in the foyer never been a problem – had to be removed.
o Home inspection never happened
• More Outreach
o As a student worker, I have to take fire safety training every year. I think the university videos are very good. I have not seen any sort of fire prevention material from the city. It could be beneficial to even just share ISU's fire prevention material with the city of Ames as an easy form of fire prevention information for the community.
o I wasn't aware that the Ames Fire department offered home and business inspections. If this was more widely known I would've taken advantage of this.
• Never Used
o Have never had an encounter although firefighters are friendly throughout the community.
o Haven’t had much contact
o Honestly don't know. Assume I'd hear if there were problems.
o I assume the fire department is doing a good job.
o I have had no contact with the Fire Department. I guess this is good.
o I have luckily never experienced a fire or other emergency here, but I am not aware of any outreach programs. I haven't heard any complaints.
o I have never used these services.
o I haven't used
o Never encountered the fire dept
o Never needed the fire department
o Never used
o Never used the service
o Thankfully have not needed their services.
o Thankfully I have never had to use these.
• Positive Outreach
o Always willing to come out and speak to my children’s center.
o The education and outreach as a graduate student is decent. Could have more programs.
• Suggestion
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o First off, I would like to reiterate that the Ames Fire Department does an exceptional job when it comes to their levels of service. I have, however, been looking at ways they could improve even more. I would like to see an increased sense of urgency in moving Ames Fire Station 2 to the new location, especially since it is busiest station in the city. Seeing the complications with the current location, it should be a priority to move that station as soon as possible. Response times would improve and give firefighters a much better station to work out of. I have witnessed fire personnel firsthand trying to respond to an emergency on a Saturday night and it took them a significant amount of time to not only get out of the station but also leave the bar district in general because of the amount of students they have to safely navigate around. Another thing involves apparatus. I understand the need to continue being fiscally responsible, but if I may suggest a few potential changes. One, I believe Ames maintains a 4 engine, 1 ladder truck complement of suppression apparatus. I would suggest taking away the fourth engine and replacing it with another quint ladder truck to be stationed at Fire Station 2. This has multiple benefits across the city as a whole. The ISU campus and west Ames have a lot of bigger multi-story buildings that may warrant response. Response times to the north or west sides of Ames right now can get up there at times, especially if there is heavy traffic (We all know how Duff Avenue can get during the day). Another reason a second ladder truck is beneficial is that should one ladder truck go out of service, there is another one to cover Ames. Right now, if the Ames ladder truck goes down, the nearest one is at least 20 minutes out in Boone or Nevada. On the flipside, should an Ames ladder truck be called on for mutual aid to one of the surrounding towns, Ames still has a ladder truck available for its own community. There is less strain on the fire department.
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Comments on City Electric Department
• Already have solar (x2)
• The electric power cut after derecho took over a weekend to retore and it was awful
• Any plans to expand the solar farm?
• Great Services (x11)
o Cool Project/Great/Love the push for renewable energy
o I would just like to point out a great response to the derecho and other recent wind events.
o Renewable energy that could dramatically lower the costs and cut back on environmental impact sounds good
• Interested and considering it, but prefer the panels go on roofs or parking lots instead of land
• Monetary constraints (x4)
o Lack of economic benefits/ Expected credit is very low
o Financial viability
o Not enough return on investment
• Short term stay/likely to move soon (x6)
• Lack of knowledge (x4)
o Didn’t have any knowledge about it
o Need more information about this
• I want this power pack. Lincoln, NE had this and it was amazing. Worth the cost in the long haul
• Electricity bill (x3)
o I wish there was an online payment for my bill that didn't require an additional fee. It is inconvenient to mail it in every month.
o It would be nice if the bill was paperless
o Consider lowering the cost of electric services. There are a lot of families suffering financially as the cost of living has drastically increased in the wake of the pandemic.
• Student living in rented apartment
• Individual homeowner should be encouraged to install solar panels on their roofs regardless of location, even if they are visible from the street.
• So much government when it comes to a "green world." The stats don't always agree. The whole world needs to think about green. Go slower; evaluate not just jump into latest idea.
• The credit card fee is 3.50 and the late fee is $2 with one late payment allowed before service discontinuation. Solve for the equilibrium.
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Comments on Water Service
• Apartment Comments
o I think the problems with water service are more because I live in an older apartment. The water usually tastes a little on the chemical side to me. (I used to live with straight well water so that could be why I think that.)
o Not great at 137 Dotson. Current apartment at 1336 Mayfield is great.
• General Comments
o Great water service. One problem: it is terrible waste of money to have backflow preventer checked every year. All services are now charging over $100 for 10 minutes work – ridiculous
o No such thing as too much water pressure
• Hard Water
o My hard vs. soft water level does not really change
o The water is super hard but OK; it tastes pretty good.
o The water very frequently has a disagreeable taste and leaves a rust residue, which is not fixed through filtering. Additionally, while the water is not as hard as some other areas in Iowa, in general it is a very hard water.
o Water is way too hard for my liking. I'm not sure if it is an issue with my apartment complex specifically or if it is the same citywide, but I had similar issues on campus in the dorms.
o We have hard water but we also don't have a water softener so it's to be expected
• Hydrant Flushing
o Issues are usually related to hydrant flushing and we are aware that it may be an issue prior.
• Positive Water Comments
o Absolutely love Ames Tap Water
o Ames has the best tasting water of any place I've ever had and I lived numerous places in the U.S. and in Germany
o Ames has very good water quality and taste.
o Ames water is excellent
o Ames water rocks
o Best in the business
o Best water in the country
o Drinking water is very good
o Great!
o The Ames Water Dept. does not get enough credit! The water in Ames is amazing. I recently took my kids to a tour of that water treatment facility and wow is about all I can say. It was an amazing experience for all of us!
o Water quality is good. I have been other places where the chemical smell and taste of water were horrible, so I really appreciate Ames water
o We love Ames water. Absolutely the best
• Sediment/Cloudy
o Hot water heater collects a lot of sediment; has to be flushed frequently. Plumber says likely due to my proximity to water plant
o Murky water
o The central water heater at our condo gets about a half-inch to one inch of sediment at the bottom in just a year. That's a lot. We have 16 units at our condo.
o We have limescale buildup as well as low water pressure periodically.
o We still get mineral deposits, but this has improved over time in Ames (1976)
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• Taste Declined
o We installed filter for treating drinking water as the quality of taste declined. We lived here 40 years; water tastes of chemicals but it didn't used to.
• Water Concerns
o I am worried about nitrates in my water
o Is water tested for plastic particle? It should be.
o pH is frequently high and makes growing plants in the greenhouse difficult. A lower more stable pH would be useful for those of us in the plant sciences.
• Water Pressure
o Pressure is somewhat lower than I would like in my apartment, though not sure that is Ames Water or the apartment
o The shower water is weak
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Comments on Water & Pollution Control
• Apartment
o I live in a 3rd floor apartment, so, this doesn't affect me. Building has had water in the basement but I don't know the cause.
o My apartment pays for water/sewer. So, cannot give good feedback. But all services have been pretty great!
o Quite a bit of particulate in my building
• General Comment
o Sewer backup was from my own tree roots. Roads and snow removal are never good enough but Ames is better then anywhere else I have lived. Good place to live. Don’t use library or parks besides the Homewood Golf Course. I use a bike path and that is satisfactory. Overall 5 stars. Let the college kids and partiers off with more warnings if they are not out of line. This is a college town and the permanent residents need to accept that.
o We are in a drought and there needs to be an emphasis on using LESS water, especially unnecessary usage of water like watering a lawn.
o N/A
• Keep Investing
o Keep it up. Do not let Ames water and sewer fall apart like the streets did
o Necessary maintenance
• Lower Rates/Justification
o I don't know why I have to pay for storm drainage if there has been no rain.
o I think water rates are good, but of course I would still like to see them lower.
o I'm questioning why every month I'm charged $5 on my electric bill for "Storm Water Drainage." Doesn't seem very applicable to my electric bill and also seems like $5/month from every resident would add up to a lot so I sure hope the cost is justified.
o Water and sewer rates are high
o I'd like to know more about stormwater issues in Ames, but I don't have the time to go looking for the information.
• Pollution Concerns
o I read Ames has excellent water, but that near the stadium there are chemicals from beauty and health supplements that are not removed.
o So, this isn't great: https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2022/01/11/dnr-ames-drinking-water-has-forever-chemicals/. I am also part of a citizen science project for monitoring salt levels in local streams/surface waters and there are often high levels of contamination during/after the winter. With the wealth of knowledge we have from experts in the community, there is no excuse for Ames to have poor water quality. We should be a leading example of environmental health and have policies in place to insure that.
• Positive Feedback
o Ames Water Department is great
o Ames water is really good.
o Keep up the great work!
o satisfactory
• Sewer/Street Backup
o Talked to City personnel. They were going to look at reshaping the problem area. Nothing was ever done.
o The sewer backs up at 230 Campus almost every other day and nothing is done about it
o Through the green space on back of our property. Outlet not dug low enough. Water never drains out completely. Floods with heavy rains. City claims it is our HOA responsibility.
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Comments on Neighborhood Nuisance Enforcement
o All landlords need live within 10 miles of Ames and be in charge of lawn upkeep and snow removal
o Ames allows way too many rentals and they don't abide by law – mowing, weeding, parking, house upkeep. Absolutely no account of city or laws to limit rentals in established family neighborhoods.
o Getting after landlords for bad property care
o I think property upkeep is a MAJOR problem for rental properties and that the enforcement standards should be different for them compared to regular folk. My reasoning is this: Most of the rentals around Ames are owned by huge rental businesses (e.g., MTR, RES, Total Property Management, etc.). If these companies can afford to buy up property all around town, and ask pretty much whatever they want for rent, then there is no way they can't afford to replace busted gutters, windows, or whatever else needs to be fixed on the rentals. But do they? Almost never. Half of the houses in my neighborhood are rentals and, trust me, you can tell. It's not surprising that they let them go so long; why would they spend the money to fix them if they can get away with leaving them in disrepair? I honestly feel bad for the people who end up living ther; I can only imagine what they look like on the inside. On the other hand, regular folk living in homes they own may have real difficulties in paying for repairs or making updates to their homes, and piling on fines and complaints only makes the situation worse for them. No one should be penalized for being poor. That's why I answered "don't know" for all of these, because I think the standards should be different. Also, for yard upkeep, it makes more economical and environmental sense to grow natives and deep-rooted grasses instead of regular turf grass, so I am completely PRO "overgrown vegetation" (so long as it isn't invasive).
o Consistent presence of trash, abandoned furniture, and debris, which is frustrating that the property owners are not held responsible for these kinds of things. This is especially evident in the lower income areas, where I happen to live.
• Burning Leaves
o Burning of leaves & dead vegetation. Allergy to smoke. Why are people allowed to do this?
• Facebook Shaming
o I was really disheartened to see that Ames solution to this problem was to public shame houseowners on Facebook. It was very clear who's house it was and who they were targeting. Maybe the person is going through things right now that cause them to not fix things. Talking with the owners and working through the problem seems more appropriate.
• General Comments
o Ames is a well-kept city
o There are at least 40 garbage trucks passing on my street each week. One or two should be enough.
• HOA vs. City
o I live in an association area and well maintained. However, driving around Ames I see instances of poor property upkeep, especially a house on Grand Ave. Do not know how much authorities can do to curtail messy yards & property upkeep.
o The city is not an HOA. Unless it is a hazard to others, money should not be wasted on this, and in some cases city involvement is detrimental. For example, a lawn mowed short provides nothing to beneficial insects and wildlife while a wildflower planting or natural prairie setting benefits all, including homeowners with the flowers it provides. "One man's trash is another man's treasure" holds true for all of the upkeep questions.
• Homeless Rights
o Only under extreme situations should the city interfere with homelessness rights.
• Ignore Nuisance, Live and Let Live
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o Let people do what they want; we should focus on actual problems.
o Outside of potential health and safety concerns, or any landlord enforced illegal housing situations, I do not care about any of these at all.
o Please don't waste my tax dollars enforcing any of these except in extreme circumstances
o They should not care about outdoor storage on private property at all
o Why are some of these on here? Front yard parking on residential property, property upkeep, outdoor storage on property. Like I get it if someone has a salvage yard of cars in their yard or their home has all the windows smashed out and is abandoned, or if they just have trash scattered and piled all over their yard. However, what needs to be remembered is that the individual purchased that property to do with it what they please (within the reason of not creating an extreme condition). This rant has nothing to do with the performance of the Ames Police Department; as far as I'm concerned they're doing a stellar job! I just think our resources are better devoted elsewhere.
• Lack of Nuisance Enforcement
o Dissatisfied things do not seem enforced at all. Honestly, I don't care though.
o I have never known the city to have had these things reported.
o Noise ordinances are meaningless if the police arrive in a marked vehicle before taking decibel measurements. All that does is allow the individuals causing the disturbance enough time to reduce music volume until the police leave.
• Natural Yard
o It is best for the environment, human health, and pet health for yards to be pesticide and fertilizer free, which should be controlled. People should have Iowa's natural growth (prairie). People should not be fined for not keeping their yard or property up.
• Not Applicable
o I don't experience these much at all.
o N/A
o No complaints. These are not really issues in my neighborhood
o People pretty much leave me alone
o I live in an apartment so I cannot speak to most of the items.
• Parking
o I have had little issues with anything listed above. One issue is over-parking on neighboring driveways and lawns. I have never seen a ticket issued for those neighbors.
o Never front yard parking
o There are almost always cars parked on the wrong side of the road that make passing difficult.
• Parties/Noise
o Don’t have any issues in my neighborhood minus a house of college students that have regular parties and the apartments on Mortenson that can sometimes get loud.
o More enforcement on "party" days (801?). They (students/out of towners) enjoy that the cops will give them a pass.
• Students
o It is extremely frustrating to have the Ames police called on us students when we have proper permits to host events. I live within the trailer park, and this has happened twice while we were hosting events for our colleagues, and both times we were given permission to have the event and were being respectful of our neighbors. This is extremely frustrating on our end and would like to see less of this occur.
o Students run rampant in Campustown area. Overoccupancy and cars parked in yards. Loud parties. The problem should not be handled on a complaint requirement. You need to hire more people to enforce these rules. The neighborhood is almost ruined.
• Yard/House Maintenance Issues
o Just some houses look very bad
o I see many overgrown areas, including low hanging trees I have to dodge when walking on
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the sidewalk and I 'm only 5-ft. tall.
o Some properties seem to be allowed to languish. Not even sure if property owners are informed. Snow removal/shoveling not listed above, but is also a problem.
o It seems like some of town could use more upkeep and upscale to keep property looking decent like north of downtown.
o One house near 13th & Northwestern is an ongoing eyesore. Second house south of intersection, east side. A real garbage dump.
o Yards need to be cleaned up when no people are living in the house.
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Comments on Street Maintenance Positive Comments
• Clean streets
• Street maintenance gets an A+
• Better than most places but the whole of Grand should be reevaluated. Specific areas that need attention are:
• Road specific repairs and maintenance
o Give east/west traffic at the Grand/13th intersection a dedicated turn like north/south has.
o Driving west on 13th St. trying to get through the Grand Ave. intersection is terrible.
o 1514 Duff is in shambles and has been for years. 1118 Grand Avenue has a backyard with trash and unused cars and looks like a dump and has for years.
o Illinois Ave. needs repair, but I know it's a low priority because it’s such a small road.
o Poorer neighborhoods experience less street maintenance. I love seeing the street sweeper come through. Go street sweep!!
o Lincoln Way is not synced very well it seems.
o Please repave 7th St. between Duff & Grand. It is a mess.
o Still have gravel road at Adams St.
o Specific intersections that cause a lot of annoyance are 13th & Stange, 13th & Grand. It would make much more sense for those intersections to have left-turn-only lanes rather than backing traffic up half a mile behind them.
o The asphalt blend used on the roads is very reflective during rainstorms making it very difficult to see the lane markers and painted indications with a lower vehicle. A less oil-based resurfacing asphalt may be beneficial to reduce this.
o The outside lanes on 13th – both sides – are pretty rough but I think the patching is adequate for as long as possible.
o There should be protected turn lanes on Lincoln Way into downtown Ames.
• Bicycle and Pedestrian
o Bike path along 6th St. needs to have cracks addressed. I have contacted Public Works about putting Blackwood Circle on the 5-year plan, but no response.
o Changing Duff for bike path was a terrible idea. Messed up traffic for all driving cars on Duff.
o I don't use bike paths; they are mostly glorified sidewalks. Our street was partially resurfaced in 2017; the rest of it is horrible.
o I still can't believe you took away a lane of traffic in numerous locations and put in bicycle lanes; I rarely see any bicycles on them.
o I would like a sidewalk along Ross Road. The sides of the street are broken and uneven – a tripping hazard.
o The bike path to campus from west needs fixing.
o The restriping of streets to make bike lanes against the curb seems to make dangerous bike paths. I would not feel safe riding in this junction of pavement and curb with frequent tire-grabbing cracks and potholes.
o The sidewalks in town are trip hazards, unsafe and are a discouragement to walkers and people with strollers/bikes.
o On-street bike paths are good, as are wide sidewalks and off-street paths.
• Snow and Ice removal/Slippery Pavement
o How about keeping the snowplows on the street and not in my yard. Corner lots get
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beaten up every winter.
o Snowplows dump "concrete-consistency” slush on residents’ driveway mouths, causing pile-up. Need to stop this in private driveway mouths.
o City plows often plow entrances to driveways shut, refilling private drives that have been previously cleared by homeowners. Snow is often also thrown up unto previously cleared sidewalks, making traffic dangerous or not possible, after homeowner has carefully cleared paths on walks.
o Despite snowplows going through even main streets, there is always a layer of ice and snow that stays on the street. Neighborhood streets are even worse. I refuse to drive around Ames days after a snow storm goes through.
o The street crossing on the steep hill of Hayward (at Campus Ave.) became dangerously icy. If there is any way for the city to add sand or something to the intersection, I think it would make it significantly safer in future years. It also makes the crosswalk completely inaccessible for disabled or mobility-limited people.
o Each year I dread winter because I know that our plow team is so insufficient. It would be better for me to hand-move snow on our roads. They do not appropriately plow inside the trailer park where I live. This is an area that the city of Ames greatly needs to pay attention to as it is a yearly hazard.
o Ice control: plowing leaves sidewalks/crossings blocked and difficult/dangerous to use for pedestrians.
o My street can have major snowplow issues, with plows packing down snow and leaving a T-intersection very icy.
• Traffic light coordination
o Lights are very poorly timed across the whole city.
o Change is needed for timing on Hyland/13th streetlight
o Except the intersection at Duff and Chick-Fil A. In winter months, I timed it one day and I sat with a red light on S. 3rd/4th and Duff for over 8 minutes before it finally triggered (6 a.m. timeframe). Even now in summer months, it’s kind of unpredictable. Not sure how the sensors work in that intersection.
o Going down Lincoln Way either way if you get one red light you get every single one between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., otherwise you get all green.
o I think the traffic lights are out of sync here are purposeful, but it causes people to become more frustrated and aggressive when driving to try to beat the lights.
o I was not aware this existed, and I am often stopped at multiple lights going down major roads.
o Lights too long on side streets.
o Some traffic lights seem off. Traffic is congested due to the flow of lights. Some too long.
o The number of lights being put up back up traffic significantly. Roundabouts are a lot more efficient.
o The light at 13th St. needs a green arrow or a turn lane.
o The traffic light at South Duff & South 16th Street – east & west needs changed. Most times it only gets 3-4 cars through. It needs separate east light and separate west light.
o The traffic lights on Lincoln Way between Sheldon and Beach are set up where it is normal to hit every light red. The only way to get greens most of the way is to either wait for the next light to turn green before going or to speed an unreasonable amount.
o Signal timing is horrible. Progression on Lincoln Way especially is start/stop all the way.
92
o Some seem long – red lights!
• Traffic Control Signage
o Need left signals on 13th & Grand- east/westbound. Turning left onto Grand from 13th Street – can't see other traffic coming and barely make it through light.
o Inconsistent turning arrows in Stange & 13th St intersection. City streets with bike path lanes is totally confusing and sometimes downright dangerous.
o I'm not sure if this has to be coordinated by the apartment complex, but the arrows exiting Copper Beech should be changed. Most cars are going straight from the right lane, while the arrow indicates it should be done from the left lane, and the way the streets line up I think it makes more sense for it to be the right lane.
o Some signals seem to go by too fast. I notice it most at Lincoln/Grand and the new light by Ada Haden heading to Gilbert.
o The Campustown area seems to have signals coordinated to slow traffic down.
o The traffic signal on Stange Rd. & 13th Street doesn't work after midnight. So, I waited 15 minutes, and it still didn't change. So, I detoured to the other road (very inefficient). Some people disregard the traffic signal because it’s out of order.
o PLEASE change the stoplight at S. 16th Street and S Duff Ave. The traffic that heads westbound on 16th Street needs more time to turn left onto southbound Duff. PLEASE also change/add time to the stoplight at S. Dayton Ave. and SE 16th Street OR add additional lanes to this intersection! Again, traffic is always backed up.
• Other
o Horrible! City keeps adding traffic lights and stop signs but hasn't cured of slowed traffic. South/north traffic is nightmare slow.
o It appears the city has gotten the message that the streets are a disgrace. Finally, there are some sections getting fixed. But there is lot to catch up.
o I live in a townhouse in Briardale. I believe Truman Place is a city street. In the winter we have trouble getting out of the association.
o I wished they wouldn't plow into parking spots in my neighborhood, specifically at my apartment, because then there aren’t enough spots to park at.
o Our streets are privately owned but, in the city, and we pay taxes as well as maintain our streets.
o This has got to be my #1 highest priority issue in Ames ("the land of red lights"). Ames has by far the worst traffic signal effectiveness I've ever seen. None of the lights communicate with each other.
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 93
Comments on CyRide
• Bus Stop Locations and Shelter
o I have to walk 3 blocks to get a bus and wait without shelter. I have trouble with grocery shopping and find it impossible to use the bus.
o I wish there were more frequent routes and more shelters at stops. There are far too few. You also can’t access large parts of the city using public transit. Especially East Lincoln way and East 13th.
o The CyRide system needs more bus shelters across town. That is probably the most major barrier to riding. I do not want to stand in the wind or rain waiting for a bus, which results in me only taking the bus when I really have too instead of as a convenience or primary form of transportation.
• Additional Bus routes
o I would like more designated areas along the streets where buses could be out of traffic to let passengers on and off.
o I would use the bus if it came to Ken Maril Rd.
o Mostly fantastic; would use it more on weekends if the Cherry bus route operated.
o No bus route on Eisenhower Ave.
o I would also like some kind of shuttle service to Ankeny and Des Moines for commuters and airports. Doesn’t have to be often but a couple times a day for a few would be incredible.
• Bus Schedule/Timing
o I think the timings of buses can tag team! All the buses arrive at the same time to the main stop, and it is not helpful.
o I worked at Hach. Bus times not early enough for the first shift. This is also true for all other industrial plants on Dayton Ave.
o In the morning (8-10 a.m.) and evening (4-6 p.m.) more frequent buses would be beneficial due to the high usage of the buses.
• Positive Comments
o Excellent, no exceptions.
o Good service.
o Great resource. Would be great if west Ames connected more to downtown and to Duff.
o I am a student so I ride free but I still think that the rate being only $1 is great for non-students like my partner.
o Great service! Expand if possible!
o CyRide is one of the best things to ever happen for Ames in terms of public transportation.
o Very helpful.
o Very reliable.
o I have never had any complaints about CyRide.
o I love CyRide. I used to use it every weekday before the pandemic. I'm still mostly working from home, so there's no need to commute, but when I return to work in person, I will return to using it more regularly. Sometimes I wish it wasn't a 20-plus minute wait between buses to non-campus stops (red and green route), but still reliable (recently the bus was 10-plus minutes late from its scheduled time).
• Don’t Use I Drive/Walk/Bike
o I am impressed with this service and what it offers other patrons of Ames; however, I travel so many places in one day it isn't feasible for me.
o I have my own car (x2)
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 94
o I live near campus and prefer to walk everywhere.
o I live within walking distance of most things so don’t have a big need for CyRide.
o I use Dial-A-Ride (HIRTA) since I use a walker.
• Suggestions
o Would be cool if they had Wi-Fi
o Would love to use CyRide more often if it is more convenient to use.
o I would like masks to not be a requirement on this mode of transportation since most places of business no longer require them. Lift the mask mandate. Buses can be packed like sardines and there is little evidence that masks short of an N95/KN95 do anything to protect from COVID-19.
o In the summer, use only small bus. I look at the waste of those buses with one person on them. And every year CyRide wants more money. It's a waste on energy and tears up the streets. Better management is needed here.
o It's ugly to see most buses empty or almost empty in my area. Invest in smaller buses, even cars would do.
o Keep on replacing older diesel buses. They are noisier and give off more pollutants. I do wish to keep the old school leather seats from old CyRide. Those are better :)
• Others
o I utilized CyRide my freshman year, and it was a great service. I just moved closer to campus and didn't need the service anymore.
o I am impressed with this service and what it offers other patrons of Ames; however, I travel so many places in one day it isn't feasible for me.
o Too inconvenient to wait.
o Too old. Did not use in the past. Now need to limit distance (walker). Still drive. When I can no longer drive, will use HIRTA or whatever that service is called.
o Used to use it frequently, and it is one of the better bus systems I have used. The downside in Ames is that the trip from the bus stop to destination is frequently not easily walkable or requires crossing very busy streets. Lots of sidewalks in the city just randomly end.
o I don't trust the safety of riding a bus.
o I use CyRide when my car is getting maintenance downtown. I also sometimes use CyRide to get to the Parks Library.
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 95
Comments on Parks and Recreation services
• Positive Experiences
o Ada Hayden and Miracle Park are superb
o All great! I like all that I’ve seen!
o Brookside Park well maintained, Moore Park highly utilized and well kept.
o For a small town, Ames has exceptional Parks and Rec. The dog park is one of my favorite parks.
o I don't use the parks much, but the facilities always look very well maintained.
o I love that parks have pet waste stations. More garbage cans means less trash on the ground usually.
o I love the parks in Ames. It is definitely a favorite place for me to go.
o We use the Ames parks often, particularly Munn Woods and Daley Park. We enjoy using them very much.
o Trails are always great.
o Haven't visited these areas due to Covid. When I used to visit them, I enjoyed the picnic areas. I was very impressed with all the facilities.
• Upgrades and Maintenance of Parks and Playgrounds
o Ames has a lot of amazing parks but some maintenance on some hiking trails is needed. Some trails in Ames are marked as "limited maintenance" year-round but it would be nice to see more active effort to inspect the trails for brush or debris.
o More trees planted around playground equipment. Maybe even around the schools also.
o Park could use more dog waste stations with bags and disposal bins.
o Playgrounds are too boring. Make them more interesting, different, challenging.
o Some maintenance is needed on the playground equipment in Parkview Heights.
o Need to remove the knocked down trees in some parks
o Need more lights around the parks at night.
o Some water fountains need repair and maintenance.
• Trail upgrade and maintenance
o I love running the trails at the different parks. So, anything with flowers to make it eye-appealing is great!
o I love the hard surfaced trails but I wish there were more dirt or crushed rock trails to walk/run.
o Paved trail surfaces need to be maintained more, specifically for bikers. Stuart Smith Park and related trails have many cracks that make biking bumpy. For walking and running, the pavement is okay.
o A lot of dead and downed trees. Would like to see reforestation/new tree planting in these woods.
• Additional Amenities/Recreation facilities
o More scattered picnic areas, shelters, and tables.
o Could use more urban forest.
o More bike and walking trails.
o More green space and habitats for wildlife.
o More tennis courts with lighting would be awesome!
o Needs a roller skate rink or more natural hiking paths.
o It would be great if trails have more water fountains, restrooms, and bike fixing stations. Long bike trails would be amazing as well.
o More well-connected hard-surface trails
o We need a swimming place in the nature, like a beach at Ada Hayden.
o Would like more playgrounds designed for younger kids – toddler age (1-4 years old).
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 96
• Bathrooms
o Need soap in bathrooms!
o Need to clean on a regular basis.
o Restrooms are oftentimes closed and far from picnic areas.
• Suggestions
o Reservation of shelters in the parks at Ames could come at a cheaper price or rate for ISU students/student groups!
o I have seen two homeless shelters within the woods near Coldwater Golf Course and near the veterinary school. Either we need to remove this ability for homeless people to gather here, or cameras, lights, and other safety features should be installed.
• Others
o Bike paths along Stuart Smith Park and some of Brookside Park have large bumps which are hard on the hands and wrists.
o The sand volleyball courts are often well kept and set up in time for the warm weather to hit every year, but league nights make it difficult to find a court and the lack of lights on some of the courts makes it difficult to play in the fall.
o Too many parks, too expensive to maintain
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 97
Comments on Public Library
• Atmosphere
o I enjoy the atmosphere.
o Very helpful, friendly staff. An atmosphere that is very welcoming. One of the best public libraries I've been to!
o Very nice and updated, good atmosphere
• Community Resource
o The Ames Public Library is a great resource. It is a warm and welcoming environment.
o Very thankful for a place that people can access internet, use a telephone and get help with issues like filing taxes
o The public library is a gem in this community. Regardless of what others say, a library is a necessary option in any community
o Great city resource. Would love it if it had more events for young adults at night.
• Complaints
o It's an unlicensed daycare/homeless shelter/coffee shop/gaming parlor that's noisy and filled with people sleeping, eating and running around. I prefer a quiet library where people come to read.
o You had a lot more books available at the old library
• COVID
o During Covid it was closed most of the time. I understand the safety aspect, but it was somewhat ironic that the public place for people to use internet when they don't have it available at home closed down. So then community members were even more isolated from the rest of the world. Kids who didn't have internet at home couldn't go to school. Workers that needed to work online couldn't work. It was disappointing to see that Ames Library did not find ways to stay open and serve the community that needed them most in this time of need.
o I haven't visited the library as frequently due to Covid concerns
o I love the Ames Public Library. Wish I could spend more time there. I haven't been back except once post-covid/2020.
o We haven't used the library in 2 years due to pandemic. Hope to resume soon.
• Extended Hours
o Extended time on Sundays will be great
o Sundays: my toddler naps in the afternoon so not convenient to go during that time. Would like more evening time/groups for working parents.
o They need to be more open during holidays. It is hard to always study at home.
o Unfortunately, when I think of heading to the library it is in the evening after dinner and other stuff is done. It’s usually closed by then.
• Facilities
o Very clean facilities. The fact that there are two gender neutral restrooms is extremely helpful and appreciated.
o Very nice facility and it is well kept and quick to help customers
o I am so impressed for the automatic doors installed at the entrance. I wish there were more large print books. Employees are very friendly and helpful
• Funding
o Public libraries are a good program and deserve to be funded.
o Need to ensure that ongoing maintenance is a priority
• General Comment
o The library selection is good but sometimes lacks the books that would be desirable to read. As this is not a part of a regional library system, the selection is naturally limited in
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 98
that way as well. The borrowing times for online books is also more limited than the physical books, which requires renewing the loan more frequently. Additional free parking locations would be useful, as the only alternative to parking alongside the library is to park along the railroad tracks south of the library, requiring a walk that is not desirable in cold winter months. The open portion of the second floor with tables does not encourage the quiet nature of the library, but instead allows noise to propagate more than what would be expected.
• Long Wait Times
o I love the library but very long wait times for popular items
o I love this library – it's excellent. My only complaint is the wait times for holds for popular books.
• Not Applicable
o N/A (x2)
• Not Enough Time/Future Use
o I love the Ames library, just do not have time to enjoy the services
o Hope to use library resources more in the future
o I love the library and all the services & programs. I wish I could attend more.
• Online Services
o I have "explored" the streaming offerings, but I really haven't had time to use them.
o I mainly use APL online – book searches and holds. Very convenient, easy self-checkout, staff friendly if help needed
o I really like the Libby app for reading. It makes it easier for me to access the library's books when I do not have enough time to actually go to the library.
o I would encourage having even more resources/books available online. I used the online book service during the pandemic. It was easy to use. One limitation of the service is the lack of books in Spanish.
• Parking
o I absolutely love the open hours free parking on Main/by the library. Cities and Ames (in particular for its size) tend to have a parking problem that stops people like me who may live a distance from the city center from frequenting it. But the parking lot means I can visit the library and my favorite stores whenever I can!
o Nearby free parking would be nice
o Parking can be a problem
• Positive Comment
o Most members of my book club use library and rave about how easy and great how to use. All my friends with kids talk about the bookmobile and other kid friendly resources.
o It is a beautiful library! I love how they have adult and children areas separate. This allows me to study without any distractions. Tables and study spaces are always very clean and well lit! If I do not feel like paying to sit at a coffee shop, I usually go to the Ames library to work.
o I only use the library to vote but very nice. I would highly recommend it.
o ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS LIBRARY
o Always satisfied with the library
o APL is amazing!
o Great work!
o I love the Ames Park Library. I am there frequently.
o I think it is a lovely library and every time I go there the people are always very nice
o I was very impressed with the staff and the range and quality of the programs/services. Programs for children are very outstanding.
o It's fantastic that we have one, and in such a nice location!
o Love the library
o Use frequently, great resource. Just used children's area with grandkids and was wonderful
o Very happy with the Ames Public Library
o
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 99
• Student Comments
o As a student at ISU, I never go to the Ames Public Library.
o As a student it is usually more convenient to use Parks Library
o As an Iowa State University student, I use the Iowa State University library instead (as it is more convenient and has most of the resources I need).
o I think the library could have a section open at all hours for students to have a quiet place to sit and study. I would prefer more options than just the ISU library.
o I use Parks Library much more, but the public library is also good
o I was thrilled I could get a library card, when my home residence is not in Iowa. Absolutely love the library atmosphere!
• Specific Resource Comments
o The bookmobile is a great feature I wish more public libraries had the ability to have
o Love the books on CDs – checked out them more than printed books
o I wish the library would have gaming consoles and games to checkout.
o Need more western books and more often
o Not enough protection for anyone including workers
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 100
Comments on Your Health
• Access to Facilities
o Better access to free facilities
o Easy access to gyms
o I would like students to have access to gym facilities (such as the Ames Fitness Center), since we already contribute so much to the community. I would appreciate this access since I currently have minimal opportunities at the Veterinary College and main campus is usually full with the undergraduate students.
o Just living closer to a rec building
o Closer location
o More access to indoor facilities during winter. Lap swimming, reg pool, indoor track
• Affordable Gym Membership
o A cheaper option for a gym.
o Cheaper fee on facility
o Cheaper gym rates
o Discounted gym membership
o I think having an easily and cheaply accessible gym or public track on the east side of Ames would benefit the overall health of the Ames community.
o Most cost-effective options
o Public access gym
o More gyms, or cheaper subscription to Ames Fitness
o Expand Planet Fitness
• Already Active
o Membership at Ames Fitness – on hold for summer gardening, walking, association pool
o I am pretty active, so I would not need the support
o I do enough
o I get a lot every day. I guess not being in class.
o Not sure; attend Ames Racquet and Fitness daily
o Nothing. I use an exercise bicycle six days a week
o N/A. I regularly jog and work out in accordance with my own goals.
• Buses
o Early morning buses
• Better Bike/Trails System
o Better bike trail system.
o Bike trails.
o Continuing the bike trail to connect to the High Trestle Trail. Right now it just ends south of Ames.
o I currently bike indoors but if we had better bike lanes I might also like to bike outdoors.
o If I could walk or bike to businesses, work, and school.
o More and better bike trails and lanes
o More bike paths in west Ames
o MORE BIKE TRAILS
o More bike trails so I can take my bike to work and the grocery store safely.
o Dedicated bike paths across town, cheaper and more often public skating opportunities.
o Better running trails, bike trails, etc.
o Better trails
o City maintaining trails to run and bike on
o More paved bike paths and walking trails to take around Ames. Not the lanes on the road, but actual dedicated paths for bikes around town. Avoid roads.
o More running trails
o More trails
o More trails outside
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 101
o Yes, safe paved walking trails
• Community Recreation Center/Walking Facility
o Build a rec center!
o Community recreational facility with walking track for wintertime
o Indoor walking facility
o Safer walking during bad weather
• Citywide Fitness Initiatives
o Citywide fitness initiatives (races, comps)
o More community-based marathons and events!
o Not sure, but companies could give money to their employees who do not drive to work
• General Comments
o Fixing my bike
o Less homework
o Cheaper taxes. If I didn’t have to work as much, I would be able to go work out
o I am a graduate student so honestly it is hard to find the time to participate in physical activity. I do enjoy the Ames Fitness Center quite a bit when I do have the time. The south facility is very nice and I find it a good resource for fitness. Summer sports leagues are something graduate students very much enjoy as well. I plan to participate in those this summer.
• COVID
o I'm not willing to go to a gym with the COVID pandemic ongoing.
• Expanded Hours/Evening Classes
o Free/low-cost evening hour classes
o Have evening classes after 6 p.m.
o Not much. More items maybe in the evening.
o More open gym opportunities at the Community Center or alternative site, especially during winter months
o Longer hours at the Iowa State Rec Centers
• Free Access to Facilities/Classes
o Free to low-cost fitness classes
o Free access to gyms
o Free gym
o Free gym facility
o Free or reduced membership costs to a city gym. However, at the same point I don't really use the ISU gyms as they're always too busy so I probably wouldn't truly use it as much as I'd like anyways.
o Free use of facilities during winter
o Community of friends given classes for free
o Maybe free public initiatives outside (when the weather is nice) and City email invites about the free exercise
• Information
o More information on trails and parks, and more details on adventure sport events
o More programs like ISU's walking with ease, bicycle groups, getting acquainted time to use adult activities mentioned in CitySide
o Knowledge of gyms in the area and prices.
• Less Crowded Facilities
o Fewer kids
o Less people at State Gym or more equipment
o Less crowded places to workout
o Less populated gyms
o Less crowding at gym, nicer sidewalks
• Motivation
o Just my motivation
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 102
o Motivating myself
o To look good for the summer
o willpower
o Having more places to go where I would not feel judged
• Not Sure
o Not sure
o No more needed
o Nothing
o Nothing, I have all the resources; that`s on me
o Nothing; let private enterprise provide
• Other Features
o Additional green space and bike paths.
o Dirt trails
o Tennis court availability and disc golf
o Somewhere I could take my dogs other than the dog park
o Hiking
o I work out all the time and walk to class. Only thing that would make that easier would be an indoor tennis court
o More disc golf courses
o Public facilities like swimming pool, better, more connected bike lanes (similar to DSM)
o More native species parks
o More nature/recreational trails
o More parks in west Ames
o More places to walk like Ada Hayden
o Ada Hayden walkways are great
o A roller-skating rink or more public state times at the ice skating rink
• Other Class Offerings
o Availability of high-quality fencing or martial arts training
o More fitness classes and community.
o Formerly attended "Silver Sneakers." Is it still available?
o More programs for those over 60
• Personal Health
o Less pain!
o Can't really; I have lupus
o Personal reasons
o Receiving a diagnosis for my physical condition
o Just now recovering from knee surgery; activities are limited
• Pool Access
o Access to pool for lap swim.
o An indoor community swimming pool.
o Easy swim access
o Having an indoor swimming pool.
o I swim a lot. The city closed Municipal Pool and there is no other good pool outside of the university. Ames Fitness has a pool, but it is hot and not well maintained. The university pool is nice, but has terrible hours. Because the hours are so limiting, the pool can also be very crowded. Having more hours of the university pool and not having a gap in municipal pool construction would help me get more daily physical activity.
o Indoor pool – lap lanes, aqua-size classes
o New indoor swimming complex
o Opening of an indoor swimming pool
o Warm indoor pool
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 103
• Safety
o More walking areas where I feel safe to walk. Just went for a walk and this summer is going to be miserable with so little shade because of all trees cut down.
o More walking options around Ames that feel safe to a young college girl.
o Safe bike paths, pedestrian friendly businesses and restaurants
• Sidewalks
o Better sidewalk for walking
o Better sidewalk upkeep
o Better sidewalks & pedestrian services
o More complete sidewalks
o More walking trails
o More walking trails!
• Time
o A less-crammed student schedule
o Having more free time
o Having more time available
o I don't have time with balancing school and work so that isn't something the city can help with.
o Less busy schedule
o Less occupational demand
o Less of a busy day
o Less time working.
o More free time
o More hours in the day.
o More time
o More time in schedule – nothing the city can do about that
o Not having to work
o Shorter workday
o Working less hours
o More time and feeling better
o A work/life balance, less depression, more money
o Not having to work and no snow
• Weather
o Better Iowa weather!
o Better weather
o Better weather, easier access to gym services (I live off-campus so getting to the gym is difficult)
o Less rain :-)
o Nice weather
o Nice weather, but I know that the City of Ames cannot control that
o Warmer weather
• Workout Community
o Probably doing activities in a group or with friends
o Being in a gym class
o Someone to do it with
o People to work out with and workout plans
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 104
“What could the City of Ames do to demonstrate its commitment to diversity, equity, and
inclusion” comments
• Welcoming environment
o Be more vocal about gay pride and acceptance
o Speak out more about issues involving these topics
o Allow foreigner residents to vote on local matters
o Better recruitment of diverse people for living and to public jobs
o Community resource center for minorities
o Clearing off sidewalks around town so they are accessible for people with disabilities
o Don't focus on certain groups of people. Everyone is important so target making places better for everyone not just some people. Improvements and changes should not be made on the basis of race, sexuality, or beliefs. They should be focused on improving and changing the community for the whole not for a few.
o Give more opportunities to all
o Have more diversity
o Hire more minorities into management positions (x3)
o Hold more events directed towards inclusion and diversity
o Hold those who commit acts of sexual violence accountable
o The city could help support community-led programs such as the Reliable Street collective in their mission to educate and create free programs for diversity, equity, and inclusion
o I would like more events for teens to feel included especially LGTBQ ones
o DEIB programming (x3)
o Multi-lingual outreach/outreach program (x2)
o Look into diversity organizations such as the NAACP here in Ames that can guide the City of Ames on the changes needed. Become a welcoming area for black businesses as I have not heard of a black owned business here in Ames
o Make it a safer environment for more families of color
o Make sure the board has a diverse group of individuals (x2)
o Make sure the property managers are not treating diverse people diversely
o More attention to the needs of the disabled
o More women in positions of authority taken seriously
o Not have diversity quotas
o Provide more services for refugees & immigrants and low income
o Put resource offices back at AHS. Fight against anti-transgender movement, books bans, etc.
o Quit race-baiting and focus on intellectual and background diversity, not race or gender. Race and gender don’t matter. The individual matters.
o Use more resources to support marginalized groups and poor people
• Housing
o Increased affordable housing (x5)
o Approve and help build more infill affordable housing
o Build housing the people can afford, not parking lots
o Commit to equity by restricting the use of single-family homes (excluding primary residences) as pure for-profit rental properties, allowing those who want to own such a home a chance to do so. This could potentially be done through a tax that scales the rented property's value and number of residences already owned by the individual in question.
o Develop affordable housing that people can walk/bike in
o Have programs that are geared toward apartment dwellers and not just homeowners
• Community services
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 105
o Childcare (x3)
o Free school lunches for all (x2)
o Early education
• Service facilities
o Clearing off sidewalks around town so they are accessible for people with disabilities (x2)
o Continue to focus on improving programs and opportunities
o More bathrooms for transgender people
o More things like the rainbow sidewalk! (x2)
o Provide more learning and gathering opportunities outside of the university context
o Raise minimum wage
o To have less bars and more dance halls
• Community events and activities
o City celebration
o Do events where we celebrate various cultures
o Encourage communities to have little block parties on organized days so individuals can better know their own neighbors
o Festivals or multicultural events that help to educate community members about other cultures
o Foster more small group activities so people can get to know one another – walking clubs, card clubs, biking clubs, neighborhood get togethers
o Maybe provide art events that include different cultures and histories/more artwork supporting both local and multicultural artists (x2)
o Local events
o More cultural events and holidays
o Pride parade/more parades and event that show togetherness! (x4)
o More town festivals or gatherings like the farmers’ markets held during the warmer months
o Promote more events in the downtown area that facilitate diverse voices. Examples could include an Ames Pride Festival, Downtown music festivals supporting black artists, etc.
• Non-specified
o A LOT
o Actions by the City of Ames
o Continue as the city has for years (x3)
o I don't know (x4)
o I'm uncertain of this. If a mostly homogeneous population wants to live here, there's not much to do
o Let it happen naturally. Don’t force it.
• Doing well
o already doing too much in my opinion (x3)
o Ames does a lot right now. Just keep it up and don't stop fighting as the state tries to limit what we can do to foster this ideal
o Ames already does by treating everyone equally (x3)
o Doing plenty
o Have done enough (x3)
o I am pleased to see all colors, all nationalities, mildly disabled or not employed at certain businesses in Ames, i.e., Walmart, McDonalds, etc.
• Others
o Better inform the public of efforts
o Continue with current efforts but add more community members
o Do not politicize this. Just treat everyone with dignity. Respect all citizens and what they contribute. Again, keep things simple. Deliver good service for honest value
o Enforce current laws
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 106
o Realize that many are not connected to ISU, and that ISU is not Ames nor is Ames ISU. I do not receive benefits of ISU but am impacted by ISU students, traffic, etc.
o Say so. But the city cannot change personal behavior
o Stop creating divisive policies. Equity is not fully achievable. You cannot guarantee equal outcomes, but only opportunity. DEI will disregard things that some will not agree with, but it does not make it invalid. Listen to everyone. Too many individuals get shut out and then we have a negative feedback loop. Someone does not feel heard.
o There's not much the city can do about the biases of individuals; there are always those who like to make things hard.
• Not needed
o Is this something we need to over-emphasize? You are creating confusion for children with gender and race! Do not spend my taxpayer money on this.
o Not my priority so N/A
o PLEASE DO NOT MAKE THIS A FOCUS OF THE CITY OF AMES!!!!!! There are plenty of other things to focus on. I think you should promote excellence in citizens; recognize citizens who are doing great things in the community and inspire everyone to work hard and do their best.
o Stop doing programs that teach garbage ideas.
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 107
o
“What is the best thing about living in Ames?” comments
• Accessibility
o Access to lots of different businesses.
o A smaller community with access to options of entertainment offered through the ISU community.
o Not too far from Des Moines and close to major interstates
o Being able to walk to key services & resources
o Being close to school (x3)
o Close proximity to everything
o Close to ISU (x3)
o Close to things (x2)
o Access to parks, lots of amenities
o Excellent programs. facilities. resources nearby (within the city limits)
o It's very close to my university and it has some pretty parks, good restaurants and a decent range of stores.
o Easy city to get in and out of
• Amenities
o A lot of amenities for a city this size (x4)
o Outdoors. Pleasant community that is civically aware with amenities of a town twice our size
o Many choices and opportunities (x2)
o Opportunities – culture, education, sports, and parks
o Sense of community blended with opportunities
o The natural amenities
• College Town
o Iowa State University (x15)
o Ames school district (x3)
o Interaction between the community and the students is very natural
o College town with lots of things to do
• Ambiance
o Acceptance to multicultural living styles
o continuous development, quieter in the summer
o Clean air & water (x2)
o Quiet (x3)
o Good living environment (i.e., parks, schools, restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and activities at Iowa State University)
o The atmosphere (x2)
o Great services in small town atmosphere (x2)
o Greenery (x6)
o Culturally attractive
o Quaint and lively downtown areas (x2)
o Quality of life (x3)
o Good vibe
• Compact and Clean
o City is well taken care of
o Clean (x7)
o Everything is close together (x2)
o How tied it is to the campus community.
• Safety
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 108
o Less to no crime/low crime (x6)
o Safe town (x11)
o Nighttime safety
• Convenience
o Ease of commute to all places
o Convenient (x4)
o Easy to navigate
o Good for families (x2)
o Lots of resources available to accommodate people’s needs (x3)
o Availability of everything we need
• Parks and other public spaces
o Ada Hayden (x3)
o Ledges Park
o All of the parks and outdoor areas (x4)
o Love all the parks & trails (x2)
o Walking and biking trails (x3)
o Beautiful trails
o Excellent diverse parks (x3)
o Walkable downtown
o Variety of public spaces
• Recreation and activity centers
o Lots of restaurants and activities (x3)
o Shopping centers
o Farmers’ market
o Furman pool
o ISU recreation center
o Golf course
o Skating ring
• Traffic and pedestrian facilities
o Great bike/walking paths
o Pedestrian friendly
o Quiet, no traffic issue
o Low traffic (x4)
• Service Facilities
o Quality of education (x2)
o Good water quality (x7)
o Tap water (x3)
o City services
o CyRide (x7)
o Public transport (x4)
o Quality facilities
o Parks Library (x2)
o Library facilities and services (x3)
o Helpful staff at City Hall
o Good hospital/quality health care (x3)
o Hospitals, clinics, schools, stores, restaurants, parks, activities (for families, children, adults) (x3)
o Retail shop and small businesses (x3)
o Overall good service (x2)
o Localized services around the city precluding the need to cross town
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 109
o City upkeep (x2)
o Prompt responses to snow (x3)
• Affordable
o Cost of living (x3)
o Cheaper than other university towns/cities
o Cost of living is low compared to Colorado where we lived for 40 years
o Gas prices compared to Chicago area
o Inexpensive
o Electricity rates
• Size
o Big city feels/small town atmosphere (x7)
o Size of the community (x3)
o Generally quiet small town feel with college town amenities
o It isn't Ankeny-big or Boone- small
o It feels small but is actually pretty good size
o It's large enough to have plenty of options for entertainment and leisure while not being large enough to have many of the problems Des Moines does
• Community
o Diverse community (x6)
o It feels clean, organized, and like a community
o Friendly, active community
o It seems to be a good community of people, overall
o Open-minded community (x2)
o Progressive (x3)
o Small community
o Community and choices (x2)
o Welcoming community
o Academic community
o Other residents
o The community (x4)
• People
o Good people (x2)
o Diversity/diverse population (x4)
o Few people
o Nice people (x2)
o Friendliness of citizens (x4)
o A real sense of community
o Active people
o Kind people
o Good neighbors/neighborly people (x2)
o The people (x9)
• Events
o Community events
o ISU sports and activities
o College activities that bring in major performances
o Civic events
o Cultural and athletic activities (x2)
o Variety of events (x2)
• Others
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 110
o Employment Opportunities
o Scientific industries in Ames
o I love how the students go away in the summer and it reverts to a small town (x2)
o Influx of people
o The ability to either live in a more "city-like" area (Campustown) or a more "out of the way" area (west Ames) depending on your preferences.
o There is always something going on
• Everything
o Ames has everything I need.
o Everything that you have for residents that you asked about in this questionnaire
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 111
Comments on Other Issues City should focus on
• Affordable Housing
o Affordable housing
o Increasing low-income housing
o Centrally located affordable housing
o Equitable housing for folks of lower income
o The severe lack of affordable housing (either for sale or for rent) makes it difficult to justify living in Ames
o No one should be sleeping on the streets in this city but, unfortunately, I see it too often. We need to do better in making sure that every last individual has a roof over their head.
• Other Housing Issues
o Inspection of rental complexes/facilities
o Near total lack of accountability for landlords provides little recourse for unethical/illegal treatment of tenants.
o There’re a few houses I know of that are run down / cause problems
o More resources for renters, especially those who are taken advantage of by large housing corporations (MTR, Haverkamp, etc.)
• City Planning and Planning for Future
o Allow the area near campus to actually develop. That massive empty lot looks terrible and it could actually be bringing in money and providing entertainment/competition for existing businesses
o Controlled growth on outskirts of Ames. Encourage growth and remodeling within the city core for lower income families.
o Infill of new housing. There are many empty lots available or lots that have damaged buildings that could be built on rather than endless expansion into farmland. I know infill can be more expensive for commercial builders but the city should not be focusing on builders rather than city needs.
o Collaboration with other cities
o Better urban planning that utilizes the greenest tech and practices. Traditional suburban sprawl is horrible for both the social organization of the city and the environment.
o Stop taking "bribes" to do a lot of the changes that are harmful to this city.
o The city should really focus on infill development and creating a more vibrant and stimulating town year-round.
• Economic development and redevelopment
o Getting more industry/business to Ames
o Downtown development
o Get going on development of empty lots on Lincoln Way downtown
o Keep funding downtown. The addition of businesses like Dog-Eared Books, Treats on a Leash, the farmers’ market, and Z.W. Mercantile have been amazing additions to life in Ames
o Many Ames small-business owners tell me the city is not business friendly. Why is that?
o Need to continue commitment to downtown to attract young professionals to this community
• Traffic Control and Flow
o Proper use of turn signals, headlights directed safety and used when streetlights are not provided
o Traffic – make Y Ave & Cameron School Road four lanes connecting to Hwy 30 & Interstate 35
o Traffic flow on major streets
o The constant back-ups and high frequency of traffic lights make my commute longer and more dangerous than needed
• Road improvement and snow removal
o Bikes off streets. Snow removal. Better streets – need to be redone.
o Building up Main Street
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 112
o Fix more bad streets (7th)
o Fix the 13th & Grand Ave intersection (very tough to drive west on 13th St)
o Snow removal
o I would like the city to consider some means of snow removal from residential streets instead of plowing the snow into residents’ driveways.
o Roads – lots of potholes & bumps
• Free Parking
o Removing paid parking spaces downtown to allow students an opportunity to park and utilize those businesses more
o Campustown parking
o Not punishing residents in areas of parking in ISU – can we purchase parking passes that exempt us?
o More parking in downtown for free
• Public Transport
o Free public transport
o I think CyRide is great but could probably use more funding to run routes and have more public transportation, as depending on where you live, Ames is not a very walkable community.
o CyRide bus stops could be more sheltered for really bad weather conditions.
• Walkability and Bicycling
o Less car infrastructure and more pedestrian services
o Less on bike routes in streets
o Making the city more pedestrian/bike friendly; I would like it if pedestrians and bikers can navigate to needed services (stores, etc.)
o Very walking- and bike-friendly, very walkable
o Pedestrian safety. I have been almost hit by cars multiple times crossing Grand on Sixth St. I have also been almost hit by a car at the intersection Main and Clark. Cars almost never stop at the pedestrian crosswalks on Sixth St.
o Put a walking path along the Ioway Creek project!
o Quality of transportation service
o Replacing deteriorated sidewalks in older neighborhoods
o Walkability of Duff
• Other
o As someone who is just a resident of Ames during the school semesters, since COVID-19 I was home a lot and really do not know much about the resources, businesses, quality of water, etc. I think putting the word out about the City of Ames to college students is important.
o Fiber optic internet
o I think the electricity power pack should be a huge focus. It may be close to launch, but getting that up and running would be beneficial
o Lowering utility costs
• Climate Change
o Climate change action
o Climate change mitigation and infrastructure hardening
o Renewable energy
o Climate change renewables
o Environmentally friendly
o Planting trees – more animal habitat. I was upset when you chopped down so many trees around the dog park. I also really want Ames to quit sending so much garbage to Boone Co. landfill. I would gladly take all my recyclables to a place; I did in Texas for years.
o City recycling program
o Providing more green space in the city and fewer apartments intermingled in residential areas
o Global warming
o Reducing environmental impact and increasing use of alternative energy sources.
o urban/community agriculture
2021 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 113
o Sustainability
o Re-evaluating current waste disposal practices
• Police service
o Attitude of police officers.
o Police divestment
o reducing police funding and redirecting it to other social services and infrastructure
• Law enforcement
o Property upkeep law
o Enforce landlord laws
o Reducing taxes
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
o Continuing focus on diversity
o Creating a vibrant, diverse community atmosphere
o Inclusion
o Make Ames a more bike-friendly community
o Racial diversity, LGBTQA+ inclusion
o Regular programming for the disabled
o Social equity (DEIB) initiatives
o Handicap accessible
• Crime and Public Safety
o Decriminalizing cannabis
o Decriminalizing marijuana
o Control the crime
o Murder rate
o Public safety (community safety). I feel the changing demography has made our community less safe.
o Eliminate crimes
o Sexual assault information and prevention for Iowa State University
o Theft prevention and investigation
o Violent crime
• Social Issues
o Education: K-12 school, STEM education
o Just continue focusing on the basics of providing good service for good price. Don't let infrastructure fall apart
o Mental health outreach – Julie is amazing, but we need more.
• Recreation and Amenities
o New parks
o Indoor pool
o I hope that the city builds the conference center downtown
o Our city lacks hotels near the downtown areas of Ames
o Recreation center
o New fast food places
o Adding more restaurants and activity centers
o We need a community center of sorts. APL is great but we need more spaces for community.
• No Opinion
o None that I can think of
o N/A
202 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 114
General/Additional Comments
• Road Improvement and Maintenance
o Keep up fixing the main streets
o Fix 13th Street and Grand Avenue
o Do not widen Grand Avenue and remove all the mature trees. A gain of 90 seconds wait time is not worth a million spent.
• Traffic Flow Maintenance
o Improve traffic flow when possible
o Hire a traffic engineer please
o I would GREATLY appreciate the current mood of restricting the traffic flow on our major arteries be reversed. I also believe bicycles should be rerouted to side streets. It is a very dangerous situation with both bikes and autos on the same street.
o North Dakota Avenue needs a right turn only lane at the intersection with Lincoln Way. Cars always block turning right but the lane becomes single after intersection. Would be much smoother traffic and less issues at road change past Kum & Go. Plus South Dakota has a right turn only lane from the opposite direction, so it makes sense if North Dakota did, too. Also, Mortensen needs to become four-lanes between South Dakota & State St.
o Please improve south-north traffic flow on Duff/Grand. You keep putting more stop signs and lights and there is no alternative street on the central and east sides.
• Traffic Signal and Parking
o My biggest issue is the stop lights at South Duff and South 16th street going east and west.
o Need better maintenance of parking meters in the lot at Sixth & Douglas. I rarely park there but often found the meter I stopped at first didn't work. Response was very prompt the two times I did report it. The person responding was very polite.
• Transportation
o I would like better bus arrangements and safe biking routes
o We should get scooters. Like the ones you pay money for. For Iowa State campus or downtown Ames.
o CyRide is expensive and inconvenient. It appears to be made for students not the people who reside in Ames.
• Parks
o I think the design of parks could be included in more tiny parts of Ames.
• Affordable Housing
o I wish you could provide me with low-income housing for people with or on SSI. Also need Legal Aid in Ames not just Nevada.
• Development and Redevelopment
o Maintain our good infrastructure
o The revitalization at Lincoln Way – ban the businesses out so we can put hotel and shopping there.
o Please quit cutting down so many trees. Please stop the construction of so many apartment buildings. Please leave us more green areas that we can enjoy outside of parks.
202 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey 115
• College Town
o As a university town, Ames could be much more progressive with the use of recycling, renewable resources, encourage cycling, using CyRide, offering healthy affordable foods, including vegan options.
o I hate it here and this town has done nothing but traumatize me for the past three years. If you want to better Ames, get rid of Iowa State
• Social Concerns
o School system (problem behaviors, administrative changes, etc.)
o Do not let narcotics traffickers get a foothold in Ames
o Don't just assume that you've updated Inis Grove Park that your work is done. Where are your other services for the disabled?
o Need more focus on security and crime
o Please do more for marginalized families.
o The electricity bills have gone up drastically and still I lack information of where to contact. I called several places in Ames Utilities, but nobody helped.
• Climate Change
o We need to move more quickly to start community action to reduce climate change.
o If garbage & recyclables & yard waste pick-up were coordinated it could save a lot of big trucks on all the streets, as well as gasoline & exhaust fumes and particulates.
• Others
o City of Ames is an outstanding brand. I'm interested in buying T-shirts/hats with the logo on them.
o The city should have more places for electric car charging. The city should have well-maintained community gardens all over town in residential areas.
o I am an international student here at ISU. I live in west Ames with First Property management. These people do not treat international students with respect. They refused to change our apartment's carpet, which is at least about 10 years old. Over the last few months, I have been living with substantial domestic comfortability because my roommate has exhibited signs of anger issues. My lease was until July 2023. I begged FPM to transfer my lease to one bedroom at least from August 2022. They refused and told me that I would be stuck here until I found someone to sublet my bedroom. When I told them that I had safety concerns, they said that they won't do anything because there has not been any police case or visible criminal activity. I know this is not something I can complain about here or anywhere. But I still wanted to share.
• Great place to live in
o Ames is a wonderful city. Keep up the good work
o Ames is a wonderful place to live & trying to be progressive.
o I love Ames and have chosen to raise our children here
o I love living in Ames! (x2)
• Appreciation
o How nice to let residents express themselves. Thank you! (x2)
o Keep up the good work!
o Thank you for doing this! (x4)
• Suggestions
o This survey is too long. It should be broken up into two separate surveys. You would get more survey completions that way.
o You take these surveys then don’t do anything. Take note. Change needs to happen.
1
ITEM:__25__
Staff Report
The Linc Mixed-Use Project Development Agreement Terms
October 11, 2022
BACKGROUND:
The City of Ames has identified the area along Lincoln Way between Clark and Kellogg
(300 and 400 Blocks) as a priority area for redevelopment as part of the Downtown
Gateway Focus Area within the Lincoln Way Corridor Plan. Over the past three years
many of the properties on the north side of Lincoln Way have been acquired and
assembled for the purpose of redevelopment in accordance with the Downtown Gateway
Zoning district. (Site Location Map Attachment A). This site is now known as The Linc
mixed-use project by the developer.
The Linc project was included as part of the City’s final Downtown Reinvestment District
application that was submitted to the state in February 2022. The Linc project includes a
hotel and conference center, plaza, structured parking, commercial uses on the ground
level of mixed-use buildings, office uses, and apartments. The plan is designed to be
developed in two phases. If the project is built, it would generate sales and hotel motel
tax receipts rebated by the state to the City of Ames, up to $10 million over 20 years as
part of the Reinvestment District.
City Council reviewed an initial concept of the project at their November 23, 2021,
meeting. City Council gave general direction in November to continue to work with the
developer to refine the project within the scale and intensity presented to the City Council,
to include the project concept within the 2022 Reinvestment District Application, and to
negotiate a development agreement with a tax increment financing (TIF) developer rebate
for the project. Council also asked staff to investigate with the developer sustainability
measures and affordable housing.
Staff and the development team have reached an agreement on a set of terms for
development of the site and use of the TIF rebate. The draft terms are included as
Attachment B. In addition to a development agreement, the project site will require
subsequent formal approval of Major Site Development Plans, among other permits and
approvals, by the City.
Development Agreement Terms
The preliminary terms are divided into develope r obligations by phases and City
obligations. The agreement describes generally the type and intensity of development by
phase and will rely on exhibits to the agreement for conceptual design and site plan
layout. The terms include performance deadlines for initiating and completing
construction of buildings within the development. The timing for Phase 1 is tied to the
2
City’s Reinvestment District application and identifies initiating construction by January 1,
2024 and completing construction by October 1, 2025. Phase 2 is to be initiated by
June 1, 2026 and completed by July 1 2028.
The general layout (Attachment C) is the same concept used with the Reinvestment
District Application. The minimum development levels in the agreement are as follows,
additional details are included in Attachment B:
PHASE 1 (On Site):
• Boutique Hotel - 100+ rooms, a boutique or uniquely brand limited to full-service
hotel with a 15,000 square foot conference center – Minimum
Assessment=$23,700,000
• Hotel Restaurant - unique 4,000 square foot restaurant located on the upper floor
of the hotel
• Parking Structure South - developer constructed,owned, and maintained (400+
parking spaces, actual total parking to be determined) – Minimum
Assessment=$4,500,000
• Plaza (commercial area open space) at the center of the project - developer
owned and maintained
• Kellogg Mixed Use Building (Building A) - commercial square footage of 14,400
sq. ft. and 100-130 apartment units – Minimum Assessment=$31,100,000
• Frontage and Utility Improvements as needed (includes Lincoln Way parking)
• Abandonment of City Well on Gilchrist
• Vacation of Public Alley right-of-way adjacent to Kellogg
PHASE 2 (On-Site):
• Office Building (Building C) - at least 85,100 square feet of office and 31,600
square feet of retail uses, may include apartments on upper floors – Minimum
Assessment=$24,649,000.
• Plaza (commercial area for outdoor use) - an extension of plaza constructed in
Phase 1.
• Clark Mixed Use Residential Buildng (Building B) – 100 to130 apartment units,
may include additional commercial area on ground floor – Minimum
Assessment=$30,628,749.
• Additional Parking – Parking in addition to the South Parking Ramp may be
needed when Phase 2 is constructed. The amount of additional needed parking
will be determined with the Major Site Plan Development review.
• Frontage and Utility Improvements as needed
3
PHASE 2 (Off-Site)
• North Parking Ramp - approximately 200 parking space parking deck in City CBD
Parking Lot. The ramp is to be constructed by the City of Ames with TIF revenues
generated from both Phase 1 and Phase 2.
• Pedestrian Bridge from development site south of the railroad tracks to North
Parking Ramp to be constructed by the developer. The Bridge will be owned and
maintained by the developer. Overhead electric line relocation for bridge, paid for
by developer.
SALES TAX GENERATING USES:
The draft terms address the City’s interest of securing $10 million of Reinvestment District
funds from the State that are generated by the hotel and sales taxes. The $10 million is
earmarked to reduce the debt service levy payments for City’s Indoor Aquatic Center
facility. To ensure we reach projected sales tax levels, the agreement includes a
requirement that 70% of the commercial square footage be sales tax generating
uses. Performance of this requirement is necessary to continue to receive the
requested TIF incentive.
The timelines described in the terms are important to match the Reinvestment District
standards. The construction of the hotel conference center will establish the
commencement date (October 1, 2025) for generating hotel/motel and sales tax
receipts that will be returned to the City from the State. The 20-year time limit to
receive the Reinvestment District funds begins with the completion of the hotel,
regardless of whatever other construction is completed for the project.
The following table is comparison of projected Reinvestment District Receipts based upon
the February 2022 final application. Our final application is pending with the State while
the City finalizes details with the development agreement.
4
Reinvestment
District Final
Application
Phase 1
Units Projected
Receipts*
(millions)
Proposed
Development
Terms
Phase 1
Units Projected
Receipts**
(millions)
Hotel Rooms 142 rooms $7.32 Hotel 100 rooms $5.15
Hotel Restaurant 6,800 sq. ft. $2.12 Hotel Restaurant 4,000 sq. ft. $1.25
Retail 14,200 sq. ft. $5.98 Retail
(70% sales tax
generating uses)
14,400 sq. ft. $4.19
Total $15.42 $10.59
Reinvestment
District Final
Application
Phase 2
Proposed
Development
Terms
Phase 2
Hotel Rooms None Hotel Rooms None
Restaurant 13,400 sq. ft. $4.52
Retail 18,200 sq. ft. $6.68 Rest. & Retail
Combined
(70% sales tax
generating uses)
31,600 $5.88
Total $11.2 Total $5.88
Other
Indoor Aquatic $.739 Indoor Aquatic $.739
Grand Total $27.35 $17.2
* Projected receipts were for full operations of 20 years for uses listed. The 20-year clock
will start at the time of competition of the hotel, whether the other uses are operational or
not.
** Based upon proportional totals of the Reinvestment District application with
adjustments for timing and uses in the Development Agreement term s, Phase 2 75% of
projections due to delay in starting Phase 2. Capped at 10 million or 20 years, whichever
occurs first.
TAX INCREMENT FINANCING (TIF):
The subject site is part of the Downtown Reinvestment District Urban Renewal Area
adopted in August 2021 that includes a plan that allows for the use of TIF. The uses of
TIF and the amount of TIF that can be collected are part of the Urban Renewal Plan.
TIF is based upon the incremental property value increase between existing conditions
and improved conditions resulting from the development of the site. Property taxes are
collected from property owners in a TIF area. A portion of the taxes from all taxing entities
are collected and used by the City for purposes outlined within the Urban Renewal Plan.
The debt service portion of property taxes continue to go to all taxing entities.
The developer’s proposal and the terms of the draft agreement identify two uses for TIF
for the project. The first TIF request is for a developer rebate as an in centive to move
forward with the project. The developer requests approximately $42 million over 20
5
years. The final agreement will stipulate that the rebate would be solely based upon TIF
generated by the project, and TIF payments would end at either 20 years from the first
rebate payment or at $42 million, whichever occurs first.
The current proposal also includes construction of the North Parking Ramp as a
public improvement financed with TIF at an estimated cost of $10.2 million. The
agreement will specify that the City’s need for TIF will supersede the developer
rebate. The annual amount of TIF needed to pay for debt service on the Ramp will come
off the top first, before the remaining TIF is allocated to the developer as a rebate
annually. Furthermore, before proceeding with the issuance of City debt for the
North Parking Ramp in Phase 2, Staff recommends that the necessary value must
be in place to assure that the City’s annual debt service obligation can be paid
from the TIF proceeds from both Phases 1 and 2.
At the time the Urban Renewal Plan was adopted in 2021, although TIF is identified in the
Plan, it caps the total amount that could be collected to $32,000,000. This estimate was
prior to the developer’s current proposal utilized with the final Reinvestment District
application in February 2022.
The developer estimated in May 2022 that the value of the project (all phases together)
would generate incremental taxes of up to $52.4 million over 20 years. If City Council
proceeds with the development agreement, an amendment to the Urban Renewal
Plan would be needed to increase the TIF allowance to cover all of the identified
uses of TIF. If City Council is not willing to consider amending the maximum
amount of TIF for the Urban Renewal Area the agreement as proposed will not work.
NORTH PARKING RAMP:
The North Parking Ramp is the most substantial change from earlier discussions
about the project. The original concept for the ramp was for the developer to construct
the ramp and a pedestrian bridge connecting the ramp to the development. The ramp and
bridge would be part of Phase 2. The cost of construction would be borne by the developer
and the facility would be turned over to the City to operate and maintain.
However, after further scrutiny of the concept under public bidding laws it became
apparent that the construction of the ramp as originally conceived as part of a
development agreement with specifications and use of TIF to fund it, makes it a
public improvement subject to statutory bidding requirements.
This change in approach has two major effects on the project.
1. The North Garage is now estimated to have fewer total spaces and to have
a higher cost due to typical outcomes of public bidding projects compared
to efficiencies of developer constructed projects.
Based upon available TIF generated from the project and higher costs for City
construction, staff proposes that the City size a parking deck to match available
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TIF increment. Staff estimates approximately 200 spaces total for the ground
level and one elevated level of a deck. The structure would be designed to
support two additional levels in order to expand capacity to 400+ parking
spaces. Staff estimates a need of about $10.2 million of TIF increment to finance
the 200 space parking deck. Staff projects a construction cost of approximately
$7 million with an additional cost of $3 million in interest.
This size deck would provide approximately a 66% increase (80 spaces) in
comparison to the number of surface parking spaces within the footprint of the
proposed parking deck. Although the initial gains are not substantial due to the
design inefficiencies at the ground level of a parking structure, the investment
makes future additional levels feasible. Under this scenario, all of the 200
spaces will be available to the general public and not reserved for the L inc
tenants’ use.
The developer has indicated that if additional levels were built for the garage,
they would have an interest in leasing spaces for the Phase 2 office building.
The agreement does not address if the City would lease future spaces to the
developer.
2.The construction of the ramp cannot be guaranteed by a development
agreement due to approvals needed from future City Councils and the
issuance of debt for the City to construct the ramp will count against the
City’s debt limit.
Construction of the North Ramp can be approved by the City Council and funded
through General Obligation (GO) Bonds, subject to a referendum, as an Urban
Renewal Project. The current Urban Renewal Plan allows for the City to follow
this procedure under state law, which would be the same procedure used to
approve GO Bonds for the Indoor Aquatic Center. To do so would count the
project towards the City’s debt limit, but the actual repayment of the debt would
come from TIF, unlike the Indoor Aquatics Center.
Notably, the overall process to approve and construct the ramp would occur
over multiple years. Phase 2 is not planned to begin for two years. During that
time the City could move forward with initiating steps of authorizing GO bonds
and design the ramp, but not build the project until Phase 2 has begun and the
TIF for repayment is certain.
As mentioned above, the current City Council cannot commit to the developer that
it will bind a future City Council to constructing the ramp due to the number of
related, but independent steps, needed to construct it. While the developer desires
for the ramp to be built, there can only be a statement of intent to do so in the final
agreement. The final agreement may include parameters outlining when a decision
must be made for constructing a garage and how it could affect the progress
towards developing Phase 2.
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PERFORMANCE GUARAUNTEE:
The draft terms for each phase include a performance requirement related to the timing
of development and conformance to the terms of the agreement. The language states if
there is a breach of the agreement, the City may seek all available remedies, including
withholding permits, certificates of occupancy, and proportional TIF rebate payments.
MISCELLANEOUS:
Housing Affordability:
City Council identified housing affordability and sustainability as two issues to further
explore with the developer. Staff has investigated both issues with the developer and
included draft terms for the agreement
The developer initially proposed to set aside 10% of the units for households earning 80%
or less of the average median income (AMI). Staff believes that the 80% AMI threshold
is very nearly equal to fair market rent values and provide limited value as affordable
housing supply. City affordable housing efforts are focused on 60% AMI or lower
household incomes to fill needs that the market does not typically address. Although the
applicant would consider these lower income levels, the current pro forma estimates for
the apartment units do not financially support 60% AMI without additional TIF. At this
time there is no additional TIF available to further subsidize rents to the 60% AMI
level based upon the other priorities identified for the project.
The developer has agreed to include a provision for a 10% set aside serving 70%
AMI households. This is not a commonly used income limit and would be classified as
a moderate income household, not a low income household. At 70% of AMI, the rents
would be somewhat lower than fair market value, but not to the levels of low income limits.
Sustainability:
Staff has proposed a number of sustainability initiatives for the project to implement City
Council direction to include sustainability measures with the project. The most significant
standards relate to energy efficiency and green building measures. Staff has created two
options for the developer to choose. The first is to design all buildings in Phase 1 at 20%
more efficient than the current energy code and Phase 2 at 25% more efficient.
The Developer could choose as an alternative to design the Hotel building in Phase 1 to
a LEED Gold level and the Office Building in Phase 2 to a LEED Gold Level. LEED is a
nationally recognized sustainable building program administered by the US Green
Building Council that is a whole systems approach to reducing environmental impacts
related to energy, water, materials, etc. The developer has agreed to design buildings to
meet these standards and perform commissioning of the completed buildings for
verification, but they will not be formally registered with the USGBC.
Additionally, City staff proposes to limit the use of natural gas in an effort to support a Net
Zero Ready building design. The developer supports use of electric in residential units,
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but has not fully committed to no natural gas in relation to heating an d cooling as they
evaluate the feasibility to do so. The developer notes the feasibility of geothermal is
unknown due to the project’s location above the aquifer and their experience of an electric
only service for buildings of this size.
Billboard Relocation:
A third concern for development of the project is the removal of the billboards on the site.
The current billboards are nonconforming, but there is also a lease in place that extends
for a number of years. To develop the project the billboards must be removed. The
operater of the billboards, Lamar Advertising, has indicated that if a suitable location and
allowance for a digital billboard were avaliable in the City, it would consent to early
termination of the lease on this site. Provided the City Council wants to move forward
with the Linc Project, there will be a separate proposal in relation to Lamar to site a new
digital billboard in the Highway 30 corridor, potenially with a lease of City property.
Pedestrian Bridge:
The proposed pedestrian bridge is included as a developer obligation to connect the south
development to a City built north parking garage. The bridge is contingent upon their
being an avaliable path to extend the bridge via publicly owned land or through an
easement. At this time neither the developer nor City have acquired access rights over
property north of Gilchrist that is needed to extend a bridge across the railroad. Note that
if access rights are not acquired in the future, the bridge may not be built, bu t the
develoepr could proceed with Phase 2.
STAFF COMMENTS:
The Linc developers are proposing a project totaling approximately $150,000,000 with a
TIF incentive request of $42,000,000 for the two phases of their project. An additional,
$10,000,000 would be available to provide structure parking in the CDB lot for all
customers in the Downtown with the capability to expand the ramp in the future.
The draft terms for a final agreement address many of the City priorities for the
development of the site in terms of uses and timing. The question of financing parking as
a public improvement is the most significant outstanding question. Although, there is great
uncertainty about moving forward with a North Parking Ramp due to the delay in timing
for Phase 2 and the projected costs compared to TIF revenues, staff believes the concept
as outlined in the agreement is workable.
Therefore, staff believes it is worthwhile to continue to work with the developer to
fashion a final agreement that is consistent with the priorities described in this
report and Corridor Plan. If the Council ultimately agrees that the final concept results
in a catalyst project, it would seem appropriate to move forward to develop a final
agreement and concurrent amendments to the Urban Renewal Plan for the use of TIF as
described in this report. Addtionally, staff would work with Lamar Advertising on
addressing billboard relocation options as they relate to current zoning standards. Staff
would present options for billboard text amenemnts separate from a development
agreement.
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Because of the complexity of this project and the fact that neither the City Council
nor the public has had sufficient time to review the proposed terms for a final
agreement, the City Council is not being asked to give direction to the staff at this
meeting. This direction will be sought by the staff at the October 25, 2022 meeting.
If the direction at that time is given to move ahead, the staff will work with outside legal
counsel to prepare a final developer agreement that will be brought before you for formal
approval.
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Attachment A
Site Location Map
LINCOLN WAY
GILCHRIST ST
Alley
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The Linc- Mixed Use
Redevelopment Site
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Attachment B
Development Agreement Terms
SUMMARY OF PROPOSED LINC AGREEMENT TERMS
Article I-The Project (Note description based on prior understanding of the project from
December 2021, and updated pro forma from Oct. 6 th 2022)
A. Exhibit to Agreement -Concept Drawing of Site and Architectural Rendering
a. Development to substantially comply, regular permitting subsequent to
agreement approval
b. Development to occur in two phase
B. Phase 1- Begin construction no later than January 1, 2024 and completed by
October 1, 2025
1. A boutique or other uniquely branded limited to full -service hotel and conference
center (BUILDING F)
a. Hotel minimum development must consist of 100+ visitor rooms, a
4,000+ square foot roof-top restaurant, and a convention/meeting
space of 15,000 square feet.
b. Minimum assessed Value of $23,700,000.
c. Operational for guests, visitors, and patrons by October 1, 2025
2. Parking Structure-South
a. Privately owned and operated with a minimum number of parking stalls
to meet current city code.
b. Minimum assessed value $4,500,000
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3. Plaza-
a. Designed as a plaza that is the heart of the commercial area of the
project as a destination and attraction to the project.
a. The plaza shall be designed to support outdoor commercial and
entertainment uses with a mix of hardscape and landscaped
areas.
b. Overall plaza design shall be a primary gateway or connection
point for pedestrian access from the north.
b. Plaza design includes connections to uses in Phase 1 and Phase 2 with a
design that can be logically implemented in two parts, one with each
phase.
c. Phase 1 plaza components will be as indicated in the concept plan,
including at a minimum elements needed to support the hotel and
parking garage.
4. Mixed Use building along Kellogg (BUILDING A)
a. Ground floor minimum of 14,400 sq. ft. retail/office/food and beverage
b. Tenant leases to sales tax generating uses for categories above:
i. By July 1, 2027: 70% of the square footage shall be leased to
sales tax generating uses and maintain 70% of the sales tax
generating uses for the life of the TIF reimbursement.
c. Minimum assessed value of $31,100,000
d. Residential units must be located above the ground floor. The building
will include a mix of studio, one, two, three or four bedroom units and
provide a total of 100 to 130 units.
i. No more than 10 percent of the dwelling units shall be
three and four bedroom units.
5. Phasing Performance- If the required improvements are not constructed within
the agreed upon timeline (October 1, 2025), or if the performance requirements
of this agreement are not met it will be a breach of the contract. However, a six
month extension for the completion of required improvements will be granted if
each building within Phase I is at least 90 percent complete by October 1, 2025 as
determined by the Planning Director.
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If there is a breach of contract, the City may seek all available remedies, including
withhold issuance of permits, certificates of occupancy, and reimbursement of
TIF payments proportional to any building that is not in compliance.
Additionally, if Phase 1 is in breach of the agreement, the Phase 2 Incentive
identified in this agreement is void and of no value without express City Council
approval by resolution to then award the incentive to projects in Phase 2 that
have not yet begun.( Note: Nothing in this section is intended to require
sequential phasing.)
C. Phase 2- Begin construction no later than June 1, 2026 and completed by July 1,
2028
1. Construction of Office BUILIDNG C with no less than 85,100 square feet of office
uses, no less than 31,600 square feet of retail uses, including food and drink uses.
a. Minimum assessed value of $24,649,000 for all commercial classifications.
b. The ground floor and second floor space abutting the plaza shall be retail or
food and drink uses.
c. Tenant leases to sales tax generating uses:
By July 1, 2029, 70% of the square footage shall be leased to sales tax
generating uses and maintain 70% of the sales tax generating uses for the
life of the TIF reimbursement.
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d. The building may have residential units only located above the second floor.
The building will include a mix of studio, one, two, three, or four bedroom
units. Follow zoning standards for mix of units limitations.
2. Plaza
a. The plaza will be the second half of the overall design descr ibed
with Phase 1 with hardscaped and landscaped areas.
b. The Phase 2 plaza includes connections to and construction of the
multi-level open air connection to the pedestrian bridge intended to
connect to the north. This includes the terraced outdoor space
represented in the concept drawing.
c. The ground level design shall allow for abutting commercial uses
to spill out into outdoor space for food and drink uses as well as a
general gathering area. The plaza can be designed for programming
of the space as an attraction for activities by the general public and
daily use of commercial patrons.
d. Phase 2 plaza components will be as indicated in the concept plan,
including at a minimum elements needed to support the hotel and
parking garage.
3. Building B Residential Use
a. All living units in Building B will include in a mix of studio, one,
two, three or four bedrooms units and provide 100 to 130 total
units.
i. No more than 10 percent of the dwelling units shall be three and
four bedroom units.
b. Approximately 80 surface parking spaces
c. Minimum assessed value of $30,628,749
4. North Parking Ramp
The North Parking Ramp is a public improvement to be constructed,
owned, and operated by the City of Ames. The City intends to construct the
Ramp concurrent with development of Phase 2, subject to future City
Council approvals. The cost of construction will be paid from TIF revenues
generated by the proposed project. Principal and interest payments for the
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North Parking Ramp will precede annual developer rebate payments. (see
further discussion under City Obligations related to TIF).
a. Designed as a two-level garage with approximately 200 parking spaces,
final design to be determined by the City
b. Designed to have future pedestrian bridge connection extending to the
south.
c. Designed and constructed to allow for an additional two levels of parking
in the future.
5. Pedestrian Bridge
a. The Developer must construct a covered pedestrian bridge
connecting the North Parking Ramp to Phase I South Parking Ramp
or Phase II Building C for public access to the project. The bridge is
only required if the City constructs the North Parking Garage and it
can be completed within or over city owned land or easements
(excluding the Union Pacific Railroad land).
b. Bridge designed by developer, subject to City review and
approval.
c. Developer shall secure permits and construct the bridge at their
cost.
d. The Developer shall be responsible for owning and maintaining
the bridge and will be responsible for day-to-day operations and
maintenance, i.e. ice and snow removal, trash pick-up, etc.
6. If the required improvements are not completed within the stated timeline,
unless extended by the City Council, or other performance requirements of this
agreement are not met it will be a breach of the contract. However, a six month
extension for the completion of required improvements will be granted if each
building within Phase2 is at least 90 percent complete by July 1, 2028 as
determined by the Planning Director.(Same language as Phase 1)
If there is a breach of contract, the City may seek all available remedies, including
withhold issuance of permits, certificates of occupancy, and reimbursement of
TIF payments proportional to any building that is not in compliance.
Note: if Phase 1 is in breach of the agreement, the Phase 2 Incentive identified in
this agreement is void and of no value without express City Council approval by
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resolution to then award the incentive to projects in Phase 2 that have not yet
begun. Note: nothing in this section is intended to require sequential phasing.
Article II-Developer Obligations
A. Developer shall obtain all required approvals and permits needed to construct
the improvements identified within this agreement.
B. Construction of all site improvements and features identified as part of the
Project (Article I) within this agreement.
C. Developer/Owners operate and maintain the project consistent with the
performance requirements of the Project (Article I).
D. Developer shall enter into minimum assessment agreements for
improvements described in the agreement, the Assessor may assign higher
valuations and the owner may challenge so long as the final value is not be low
that of the minimum assessment.
E. Developer agrees to not seek or receive other property tax abatements during
the time period the owner receives a TIF rebate incentive.
F. The Developer shall remove all outdoor advertising signs (billboards) by July 1,
2025.
G. Public Improvements and Frontage Improvements:
I. Dedication of right-of-way of ten (10) feet along Clark Avenue.
II. Developer shall construct on-street parking and sidewalk along Lincoln
Way.
III. Construction of all public improvements, relocation of infrastructure
(excepting as noted below), frontage improvements, and other related
project infrastructure, as required by City.
IV. Other adjustments to Gilchrist for management of traffic circulation
may be required based upon the traffic study.
V. Note DOT approval still required for work along Lincoln Way.
H. Well Abandonment-
I. The Developer shall reimburse the City for the cost of abandoning the
water well, demolishing the well building, and acquisition of vacated
alley right-of-way as specified in Article IIIe. The total amount is
$840,000 payable to the City within one year of the date the City has
abandoned the well(amount inclusive of other benefits in Article III).
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II. The Developer shall provide the City 180 days of notice prior to
initiating construction in Phase I, in order to complete the
abandonment of the well.
III. The Developer, as part of the notice under Article IIh, shall provide
details related to excavation and construction within 200 feet of the
well site in order to allow for the City to design and place the well cap
appropriately.
I. The Developer shall reimburse Ames Electric for all expenses related to
relocation or underground of transmission lines along Gilchrist. High voltage
lines are not being relocated or undergrounded for the project.
Reimbursement subject to standards Ames Electric policies and are not part
of the $840,000 identified within Article IIH. Reimbursement will be per
standard Ames Electric policies for work completed in support of a
development project.
Article III-City Obligations
A. Based upon the Developer’s projections and minimum valuations of this
agreement that over 20 years up to $52.4 million of TIF will be generated
between Phase 1 and Phase 2, depending on the timing of the construction of
Phase 2. The $52.4 million TIF is contemplated to be used by the City for
construction of a North Parking garage and remainder of funds rebated to the
developer as an economic development grant for the construction of the
Phase 1 and Phase 2 projects.
B. Subject to satisfactory performance according to the agreement, the City shall
provide a developer “TIF rebate” based upon the difference of current values
and future improved value of up to $42,000,000 in total for both Phase 1 and
Phase 2, or for up to 20 years whichever occurs first. (Actual agreement will
be more specific with date based upon state law).
a. The City is authorized to utilize annual TIF revenue from either or both
Phase 1 and Phase 2 for any and all costs related to the construction of
the North Parking Garage and land or easement acqu isition. Any TIF
that is not used by the City annually, shall be paid to the developer per
the terms of this agreement.
b. The Final Agreement will include estimated City TIF allocations needed
to support the construction of a 200 space North Parking Garage and
developer allocations.
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C. The TIF Rebate shall be subject to an annual appropriation clause by the City
Council in order that the value of the incentive is not a general obligation debt
for the City.
D. Undertake and pay for the abandonment of well and removal of well building.
E. Transfer ownership of the well property to the Developer.
F. Upon the City Council’s approval of the alley vacation located between
Gilchrist and Lincoln Way, the City will transfer ownership to the Developer
subject to limitations of Iowa Code.
Article IV-Miscellaneous
A. Developer shall incorporate sustainability features into the project:
I. All buildings in Phase 1 shall be designed to be 20% more energy
efficient than the 2012 Energy Code.
II. Building B and Building C of Phase 2 shall be designed to be 25% more
efficient that the 2012 Energy Code
III. Alternative to Section a.I. and a.II. , use LEED 4.1 “gold” design levels
for Hotel Building Phase 1 and Office Building C in Phase II, with
commissioning of each building. Actual USGBC certification not
required, but a report by an independent evaluator shall verify
consistency. (Staff Note: Selected these as the premier buildings and
most public buildings for showcasing high sustainability commitment)
IV. All residential units shall have electric appliances. No natural gas shall
be used within the residential units.
V. All buildings shall consider use of alternative heating and cooling
methods to natural gas and implement feasible measures of electric
service or geothermal methods of heating and coolin g.
VI. All buildings will be net zero ready.
VII. Further discussion to be held - Geothermal will be considered for the
project but given site constraints, it may not be feasible to fully heat
and cool the buildings with only geo thermal and solar or electric.
B. Housing Affordability
a. Provide 10% of units at rents affordable to low/moderate income
households not to exceed at 70% of AMI.
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Attachment C
Proposed Development General Layout
1
ITEM #: 26a
DATE: 10-11-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
REQUEST: PRELIMINARY PLAT FOR THE NORTH DAYTON INDUSTRIAL
PARK SUBDIVISION LOCATED AT 2105 & 2421 DAYTON AVENUE
BACKGROUND:
Dayton Avenue Development LLC is requesting approval of a Preliminary Plat on 72.99
acres for the North Dayton Industrial Park located at 2105 & 2421 Dayton Avenue. (See
Location Map Attachment A) The City annexed this land in February of this year. A
rezoning with Master Plan was approved on June 14th which rezoned the property from
Agricultural (A) to General Industrial (GI) with a Master Plan. (See Zoning Map
Attachment B)
The proposed Preliminary Plat includes 10 lots planned for industrial developmen t. (See
Attachment D) The Preliminary Plat includes 2 outlots which include Outlot A (6.27 acres)
and Outlot B (11.78 acres) for the treatment and detention of stormwater and wetland
protection. Outlot B contains a small pioneer era cemetery with access pr ovided to the
cemetery on Outlot B via an access easement on the west side of Lot 5. The plat also
contains two street lots (Lot A & B) for street right-of-way. Lots 10 and 11, are proposed
to be ‘through lots’ located between Dayton Avenue and Baley Avenu e. These lots will
only have access from Baley Avenue.
Lot A contains Baley Avenue which is the sole street providing access to all the lots within
the proposed subdivision. The street will function as a loop style street through the
development intersecting with Dayton Avenue at two points. Lot B contains right -of-way
for Dayton Avenue. Additionally, a turn lane will be constructed on the west side of Dayton
Avenue for access onto Baley Avenue at both intersections. No access to the lots will be
allowed directly from Dayton Avenue.
Utilities will be extended into the subdivision including water, sanitary sewer and electrical
lines. Water and Sanitary Sewer will serve all lots from along Bailey Avenue. The layout
of the proposed subdivision does not include a final extension of sanitary sewer to the
north, approximately 300 feet of pipe length. The initial proposal considered a waiver
request of the subdivision standards due to the use of TIF for financing the infrastructure
and limited utility of the extension based upon the existing use to the north and no further
planned expansion.
The Eagle’s Loft daycare north of the site utilizes a private service line to connect south
to the existing public sewer line. If the sewer is extended north to the boundary of this
subdivision, the Eagle’s Loft is obligated to disconnect their private service and connect
to the City sewer main at their costs. This obligation is established as part of water and
sewer service agreement from 1995. Staff now proposes that the sewer extension be
added to the design with the final plat approval to extend to the north boundary of
2
the subdivision.
The applicant’s proposed stormwater plan includes retention of the pond and wetlands at
the northwest corner of the site. The majority of the site will have runoff diverted to a large
detention pond located at the southwest corner of the site before it is released to the west.
Water quality and quantity controls are included primarily within the ponds. See additional
discussion below.
Sidewalk is being provided along the east side of Baley Avenue along the interior lots.
Chapter 23.403(14) allows for sidewalks in General Industrial zoned subdivisions to be
provided only on one side of a street. Sidewalks could be approved on either side of
Baley. A more detailed sidewalk discussion is provided in the addendum.
TAX INCREMENT FINANCING AGREEMENT (TIF)
A TIF Development Agreement has been finalized and is being brought before City
Council for consideration and approval as a separate item on this agenda. At the
August 23rd City Council meeting the City Council accepted an amended development
proposal from the applicant requesting a 10-lot subdivision with 5 lots being small lots
and 5 lots being larger sized lots. The Preliminary Plat reflects the approved proposal.
A subsequent Urban Renewal Area and Plan, which includes TIF, will also need to be
established this fall in order to create the appropriate funding mechanism to finance the
subdivision infrastructure as described in the Development Agreement.
Planning & Zoning Commission Recommendation
At the September 7th Planning & Zoning Commission meeting the Commission discussed
the Preliminary Plat for North Dayton Industrial Park Subdivision. Two members of the
public spoke concerning the grading and stormwater plan. One speaker represented
concerns of the Izaac Walton League private club located to the west of the site in rural
Story County. He expressed concerns about planned diversion of stormwater and its
release onto their property at the southwest corner of the subdivision site. The other
speaker was concerned about effects of grading and water flow to the pond located at the
northwest corner of the existing site.
Speaker’s specific concerns included how the change in stormwater release located
along the property line will affect existing water levels on their site to the west. Concerns
were raised an existing wet marsh could become dry and areas that are currently dry
could become too wet due to stormwater discharge being routed to a new location.
Chuck Winkleblack, representing Dayton Avenue Development LLC, addressed the
concerns by describing the reasons why the stormwater discharge point was being
located where it is proposed to efficiently develop the site and why the drainage on the
site was being directed to the stormwater detention ponds as proposed. A substantial
amount of the area of the subdivision has water diverted to the treatment pond at the
southwest corner of the site.
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Commission members discussed the concerns and considered staff’s responses
regarding the City’s stormwater management plan requirements of Ames Municipal Code
Chapter 5b and the general subdivision standards of Ames Municipal Code Chapter 23.
Ultimately, the Commission determined the plan addressed stormwater requirements of
Chapter 23 as they relate to approval of a subdivision.
The Planning & Zoning Commission voted 7-0 to recommend the City Council approve
the Preliminary Plat for the North Dayton Industrial Park Subdivision.
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT:
Subsequent to the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting , the City’s Public Works
staff finalized their comments for the stormwater management plan regarding drainage
changes and asked the developer to refine the design since the P&Z meeting.
Additionally, representatives of the Izaac Walton League met with staff and the applicant
in September with concerns of how changes to the release location of stormwater to the
west would affect their property. Two significant concerns of the League were whether
water would continue to runoff in the middle of the site to an existing marsh on their
property and how much would flow from the pond to their pond.
Staff has worked with the developer’s engineer to design a system that allows a release
of water towards the Izaac Walton site marsh for 1-year storm event rainfalls,
approximately 2.5 inches of rain. Larger storm events are controlled by the stormwater
system and routed to the treatment pond.
The stormwater plan included with the proposed preliminary plat for City Council
approval includes the diversion of water at the middle of the site to the League’s
property as an enhancement to the design since the P&Z meeting. The stormwater
pond at the southwest corner of the site remains the same in its design and planned
release rates to meet City requirements. This information has been shared with
representatives of the League. Staff believes this release design should address
the League’s concern.
The City’s Public Works Department has accepted the proposed stormwater
management plan proposal, pending approval of wetlands fill permits by the Army Corp
of Engineers.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. The City Council can approve the Preliminary Plat for the North Dayton
Industrial Park Subdivision located at 2105 & 2421 Dayton Avenue with the
conditions:
a. Include an extension of the Sanitary Sewer line to the north with public
improvement plans and the final plat.
b. Update the final stormwater management plan to reflect the approved
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stormwater design and obtain Army Corps. of Engineers wetland fill
permit prior to approval by the City for grading and final plat.
2. The City Council can deny the Preliminary Plat for 2015 & 2421 Dayton Avenue
if it finds the Preliminary Plat does not meet the requirements of Section
23.302(3)(b) of the Ames Municipal Code and by setting forth it’s reasons to
disapprove or modify the proposed preliminary plat as required by Section
23.302(4) of the Ames Municipal Code.
3. The City Council can defer action on this request and refer it back to City staff
and/or the applicant for additional information.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Upon review of the Preliminary Plat staff has found that the proposal meets the
requirements of Chapter 23 and the Rezoning Masterplan approved on June 14th. Lot
layout and design as well as utilities connections and stormwater design have been
reviewed by staff and found to meet City standards.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council approve
Alternative #1.
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Addendum
Project Location.
The project site is located at 2105 & 2421 Dayton Avenue along the west side of Dayton
Avenue directly west and across from the USDA Laboratories and immediately south of
the Eagles Loft Daycare. (See Attachment A- Location Map)
Master Plan Compliance.
The Preliminary Plat for this development is in conformance with the appro ved Master
Plan, which illustrates the general arrangement of uses, layout of development and
conservation/open space areas, planned transportation connections, and developable
acres.
Traffic and Street Connections.
Dayton Avenue will provide access to the subdivision to the east. Baley Avenue will serve
as direct access to each lot throughout the site and is designed as a loop design through
the subdivision serving all 10 lots. Baley Avenue will intersect with Dayton Avenue at two
points to the north and south along the east side of the subdivision.
Turn lanes will be added to Dayton Avenue at both locations where Baley Avenue
intersects with Dayton Avenue. The developer and staff have determined that the
proposed turn lanes and internal street plans meet city standards for street construction.
No future street connections have been provided to the north or south of the North Dayton
Avenue Industrial Park. The property to the north is owned by Eagle’s Loft Daycare along
with rural homes north of the city limits. No development is anticipated in the future in this
area. To the south is land owned by Colorbiotics. There are no immediate expansion or
development plans by Colorbiotics for the land to the south. Any development on the
Colorbiotics property can be served by Dayton Avenue.
As a result the north-south connections beyond this property are not seen as being
needed to serve additional development or expansion of the City limits in the future.
Shared Use Paths, Sidewalks, and Trails.
The developer is responsible for constructing a shared use path along the west side of
Dayton Avenue for the length of the North Dayton Industrial Park subdivision in
accordance with the City’s Ames Plan 2040 Comprehensive Plan. Standard sidewalks of
five feet are also required along one side of an industrial road as required in Section
23.403(14). The developer proposes the sidewalk along the interior side (east side) of
Baley Avenue.
Although not part of a preliminary plat standard, site development of each lot does require
a walkway connection from the building to the street. Crossings of streets to sidewalks
is evaluated with site plan review. A cross connection point can be provided for crossing
points to access the lots on the western side to the sidewalks on t he east side of Baley
Avenue.
6
Alternatively, a sidewalk can be provided on the west side of Baley Avenue. Buildings on
the west side of Baley would then connect to the sidewalk and the interior lots would have
connections to the shared use path along Dayton.
Stormwater Management.
Stormwater management will occur in two outlots (A & B). One to the north and one to
the south. Outlot A to the south captures water from the large majority of the subdivision
which includes Lots 1-4 and 7-10 via storm sewer pipes traveling along Baley Avenue,
the western edge of lots 2 and 3 and along the far southern edge of the site from the
eastern edge of the site near Dayton Avenue. Outlot B to the north captures water from
lots 5 and 6 near along the northern edge of the site via a swale along the north property
line of both lots.
The projected needed capacity has been met by the developer on the preliminary plat
and meets the standards in Chapter 5 of the City’s Stormwater Management
requirements. Stormwater flowage easements have been provided along the north sides
of Lots 5 and 6 in the northern part of the subdivision leading to outlot B. Storm sewer
easement is provided along the south side of Lot 1 and leading from Baley Avenue across
the corners of Lot 1 and 2 both leading to Outlot A.
The plan also includes a water diversion at the middle of the site to allow for 1 -year storm
events to allow runoff towards the Izaac Walton League property marsh. Large volume
events are diverted to the stormwater pond where it is then treated and released.
Outlot B will utilize an existing pond for detention in the northwest part of the subdivision.
Outlot A will contain a newly constructed detention pond near the southwest corner of the
site.
Utilities and Easements.
Water service is provided from an existing main in Dayton Avenue via an 8-inch
watermain running along Baley Avenue to serve each lot. The water main in Dayton was
installed by the owner of the daycare to the north as part of the 1995 agre ement.
However, sewer to the north property is provided via a private service line in Dayton
Avenue extending to the south of this proposed subdivision.
Sanitary Sewer service is available from Dayton Avenue south of the site into the site via
an 8-inch main underneath Baley Avenue serving each lot in the subdivision. This project
proposes routing the sewer through the site along Baley, but the preliminary plat does not
include an extension north of 300 feet. Initially this was a waiver request due to current
service of Eagle’s Loft and limited options to develop further north. As staff reviewed the
project and original 1995 agreement for the construction of the daycare, staff now
recommends extending the sanitary sewer the additional distance. Upon the extension,
the Eagle’s Loft would be obligated to connect to the City public sewer and disconnect
their private main, all at their cost.
Public Utility easements have been provided along the perimeter of most of the lots in the
7
subdivision. Electrical service will be provided within public utility easements throughout
the site.
8
Attachment A- Location Map
9
Attachment B- Current Zoning & Masterplan
10
Attachment C: Applicable Subdivision Law
The laws applicable to this Preliminary Plat Subdivision include, but are not limited to, the
following: (verbatim language is shown in italics, other references are paraphrased):
Code of Iowa Chapter 354, Section 8 requires th at the governing body shall determine
whether the subdivision conforms to its Land Use Policy Plan.
Ames Municipal Code Chapter 23, Subdivisions, Division I, outlines the general
provisions for subdivisions within the City limits and within two miles of the City limits of
Ames.
Ames Municipal Code Section 23.302(5 & 6):
(5) City Council Review of Preliminary Plat:
All proposed subdivision plats shall be submitted to the City Council for
review and approval in accordance with these Regulations. The City Council
shall examine the Preliminary Plat, any comments, recommendations or
reports examined or made by the Planning and Zoning Commission, and
such other information as it deems necessary and reasonable to consider.
(6) City Council Action on Preliminary Plat:
(a) Based upon such examination, the City Council shall determine whether
the Preliminary Plat conforms to relevant and applicable design and
improvement standards in these Regulations, to other City ordinances
and standards, to the City's Land Use Policy Plan and to the City's other
duly adopted plans. In particular, the City Council shall determine whether
the subdivision conforms to minimum levels of service standards set forth
in the Land Use Policy Plan for public infrastructure and shall give due
consideration to the possible burden of the proposed subdivision on
public improvements in determining whether to require the installation of
additional public improvements as a condition for approval.
(b) Following such examination and within 30 days of the referral of the
Preliminary Plat and report of recommendations to the City Council by
the Planning and Zoning Commission, the City Council shall approve,
approve subject to conditions, or disapprove the Preliminary Plat. The
City Council shall set forth its reasons for disapproving any Preliminary
Plat or for conditioning its approval of any Preliminary Plat in its official
records and shall provide a written copy of such reasons to the
developer.
11
Attachment D: Preliminary Plat
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DESIGNED
DRAWN
CHECKED
CLIENT PROJ. NO.
DATEDESCRIPTION REV HUNZIKER DEVELOPMENT
2105 DAYTON AVE
TWA
TWA
GAB
0A1.125975
1519 BALTIMORE DRIVEAMES, IOWA 50010
Phone: (515) 233-6100
Email: Ames@bolton-menk.com
www.bolton-menk.comR
MAP OF THECITY OF AMES
STORY COUNTY, IA
HUNZIKER DEVELOPMENT
PRELIMINARY PLAT FORNORTH DAYTON INDUSTRIAL PARK
SEPTEMBER, 2022
R
STORY COUNTY, IA
PLAN REVISIONS
REV ISSUED FOR DATE
MY LICENSE RENEWAL DATE IS
PAGES OR SHEETS COVERED BY THIS SEAL:
DATE:
MY LICENSE RENEWAL DATE IS
PAGES OR SHEETS COVERED BY THIS SEAL:
LIC. NO.DATE:
IOWAIOWAIOWA
LICENSED PROFESS IONAL ENGINEER
I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THIS ENGINEERING DOCUMENT WASPREPARED BY ME OR UNDER MY DIRECT PERSONAL SUPERVISIONAND THAT I AM A DULY LICENSED PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERUNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF IOWA.
GREGORY A.BROUSSARD21974
GREGORY A. BROUSSARD, P.E.
21974
DECEMBER 31, 2023
ALL SHEETS
NOTE: EXISTING UTILITY INFORMATION SHOWN ON THISPLAN HAS BEEN PROVIDED BY THE UTILITY OWNER. THECONTRACTOR SHALL FIELD VERIFY EXACT LOCATIONS PRIORTO COMMENCING CONSTRUCTION AS REQUIRED BY STATELAW. NOTIFY IOWA ONE-CALL 1-800-292-8989.
THE SUBSURFACE UTILITY INFORMATION IN THIS PLAN IS
UTILITY QUALITY LEVEL D UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. THISUTILITY LEVEL WAS DETERMINED ACCORDING TO THE
GUIDELINES OF CI/ASCE 38-02, ENTITLED "STANDARDGUIDELINES FOR THE COLLECTION AND DEPICTION OF
EXISTING SUBSURFACE UTILITY DATA."
OWNER
HUNZIKER DEVELOPMENT
105 S. 16TH ST.
AMES, IA 50010
PREPARED BY
BOLTON AND MENK1519 BALTIMORE DRIVEAMES, IA 50010
THE 2022 EDITION OF THE "IOWA STATEWIDE URBAN SPECIFICATIONS FOR PUBLIC
IMPROVEMENTS" (SUDAS) AND "THE CURRENT CITY OF AMES SUPPLEMENTALSPECIFICATIONS" SHALL GOVERN.
IOWA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION "STANDARD SPECIFICATIONS FORHIGHWAY AND BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION", SERIES 2015 AND ALL CURRENT GENERAL
SUPPLEMENTAL SPECIFICATIONS AND MATERIALS INSTRUCTIONAL MEMORANDUMSHALL GOVERN AS REFERENCED.
MUTCD 2009 AS ADOPTED BY IOWA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION.
GOVERNING SPECIFICATIONS
PROJECT LOCATION
UTILITY CONTACTS
CITY OF AMES UTILITY MAINTENANCE - BEN MCCONVILLE, 515-239-5162
CENTURY LINK - SADIE HALL, 918-547-0147
MIDLAND POWER COOPERATIVE - BRUCE KEENEY, 515-386-4111
MEDIACOM - TIM ADREON, 515-233-2318
CITY OF AMES ELECTRIC, MARK CARRAN, 515-239-5189
ZONING
EXISTING: AGRICULTURAL (A-1)
PROPOSED: GENERAL INDUSTRIAL (GI)
FEETSCALE
0 800 1600
HORZ.
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER (SE 1/4) OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER (NE 1/4) OF SECTION THIRTY-SIX
(36);
AND,
THE NORTHEAST QUARTER (NE 1/4) OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER (NE 1/4), OF SECTION THIRTY
SIX (36)
EXCEPT, THE NORTH 1 ROD, AND EXCEPT,
A PART OF THE NE 1/4 OF THE NE 1/4 OF SEC. 36-T84N-R24W OF THE 5TH P.M., STORY COUNTY,
IOWA, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE EAST LINE, 16.5 FEET SOUTH OF
THE NE CORNER OF SAID NE 1/4 OF THE NE 1/4; THENCE N88°41'W, 925.0 FEET, PARALLEL AND
16.5 FEET DISTANT FROM THE NORTH LINE OF SAID NE 1/4 OF THE NE 1/4; THENCE SOUTH 275.0
FEET; THENCE S88°41'E, 925.0 FEET TO THE EAST LINE OF SAID NE 1/4 OF THE NE 1/4; THENCE
NORTH 275.0 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING.
INITIAL SUBMITTAL DATE
7/1/2022
PP.01TITLE SHEET
SHEET LIST TABLE
SHEET NUMBER SHEET TITLE
PP.01 TITLE SHEET
PP.02 GENERAL NOTES & SHEET INDEX
PP.03 OVERALL LAYOUT & SHEET INDEX
PP.04 - PP.07 EXISTING CONDITIONS
PP.08 - PP.11 PROPOSED CONDITIONS
PP.12 - PP.15 STREET TREE & LANDSCAPING PLAN
PP.16 SITE EXHIBIT
PRELI
M
I
N
A
R
Y
℄
66' ROW
31' B-B 5'1'12.5'
8" PCC
2%2%4%1.5%4%
18.5'
ROW ℄
2%
1.5%
13.5'2'5.2'1'10'1'
4:1
12" HMA PAVEMENT
12" SUBGRADE PREP
12" HMA SHOULDER
12" GRAVEL SHOULDER
4:1
℄
2%6%
4:1
12" HMA PAVEMENT
12" SUBGRADE PREP
12" HMA SHOULDER
12" GRAVEL SHOULDER
6%
6%6%
TIE INTO EXISTING GROUND
4%
EXISTING LANE
CUT 1' OFF EXISTINGLANE TO TIE IN
CUT 1' OFF EXISTING
LANE TO TIE IN
CURB AND GUTTER
6" TOP SOIL 5" SIDEWALK(BY OTHERS)
12" SUBGRADE PREP
6" GRANULAR SUBBASE
VARIES2'6'
VARIES2'6'
1'
1'
3'3'12.5'12.5'
5" SHARED USE PATH
1'
EASEMENT
OUTLOTS
LOT
OUTLOT A
OUTLOT B
AREA (SF)
272,472
506,822
AREA (AC)
6.255
11.635
PARCELS
PARCEL
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
AREA (SF)
218210.64
462862.87
463312.87
87573.99
98487.80
84643.85
59300.98
59984.20
214422.24
364153.37
AREA (AC)
5.01
10.63
10.64
2.01
2.26
1.94
1.36
1.38
4.92
8.36
R.O.W.
LOT
DAYTON AVE
LOT A BAILEY AVE
AREA (SF)
125,444
218,211
AREA (AC)
2.880
5.009
Open Area
Total Area (Acres)72.99
Outlots (Acres)17.9
Open Space 25%
DAYTON ALIGNMENT
NUMBER
L5
L4
START STATION
10+00
18+45.54
END STATION
18+45.54
44+94.19
LENGTH
845.54
2,648.65
DELTA RADIUS CHORD START N
7,652,016.27
7,652,861.81
START E
18,536,709.17
18,536,710.17
END N
7,652,861.81
7,655,510.46
END E
18,536,710.17
18,536,706.92
LINE / CHORD DIRECTION
N0° 04' 05"E
N0° 04' 13"W
NEW RD ALIGNMENT
NUMBER
L1
C1
L2
C2
L3
START STATION
40+00
45+76.16
47+33.24
60+37.98
61+94.34
END STATION
45+76.16
47+33.24
60+37.98
61+94.34
67+60.71
LENGTH
576.16
157.08
1,304.75
156.35
566.37
DELTA
90°00'00"
89°35'03"
RADIUS
100.00
100.00
CHORD
141.42
140.91
START N
7,653,300.52
7,653,304.98
7,653,405.75
7,654,710.45
7,654,809.68
START E
18,536,806.38
18,536,230.24
18,536,131.02
18,536,141.11
18,536,241.15
END N
7,653,304.98
7,653,405.75
7,654,710.45
7,654,809.68
7,654,809.41
END E
18,536,230.24
18,536,131.02
18,536,141.11
18,536,241.15
18,536,807.52
LINE / CHORD DIRECTION
N89° 33' 24"W
N44° 33' 24"W
N0° 26' 36"E
N45° 14' 07"E
S89° 58' 21"E
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DESIGNED
DRAWN
CHECKED
CLIENT PROJ. NO.
DATEDESCRIPTION REV HUNZIKER DEVELOPMENT
2105 DAYTON AVE
TWA
TWA
GAB
0A1.125975
1519 BALTIMORE DRIVEAMES, IOWA 50010
Phone: (515) 233-6100
Email: Ames@bolton-menk.com
www.bolton-menk.comR
A BAILEY AVE TYPICAL SECTION
NOT TO SCALE
B DAYTON AVE WIDENING
NOT TO SCALE
C DAYTON AVE OFFSITE WIDENING
NOT TO SCALE
TYPICAL SECTIONS
PP.02GENERAL NOTES AND TYPICAL SECTIONS
ALIGNMENT DATA
LOT DATA
GENERAL NOTES:
1. ALL PRIVATE UTILITIES WILL BE LOCATED WITHIN PUBLIC UTILITY EASEMENTS SHOWN ORLOCATED WITHIN UTILITY CORRIDORS PROVIDED FOR BY THE CITY'S 'USE OF CITY
RIGHTS-OF-WAY BY RIGHT-OF-WAY USERS' ORDINANCE.
2. VEHICLE PARKING WILL BE PROHIBITED ALONG THE NORTH AND EAST SIDES OF ALL STREETS.
3. ALL CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS, DUMPSTERS, DETACHED TRAILERS, OR SIMILAR ITEMS AREPROHIBITED ON PUBLIC STREETS OR WITHIN THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY.
4. OUTLOT A & B, STORM WATER AND SURFACE WATER FLOWAGE EASEMENT OVER ENTIRESITE.5. LOT A & B SHALL BE DEDICATED TO THE CITY OF AMES AS R.O.W.
BAILEY AVE
DAYTON AVE2.88 ACRES125444 SQ FT
LOT 310.64 ACRES463313 SQ FT
LOT 81.38 ACRES
59984 SQ FT
OUTLOT A6.26 ACRES272472 SQ FT
LOT 210.63 ACRES
462863 SQ FT
LOT 42.01 ACRES87574 SQ FT
LOT 15.01 ACRES218211 SQ FT
LOT 52.26 ACRES98488 SQ FT
OUTLOT B11.64 ACRES506822 SQ FT
LOT 108.36 ACRES364153 SQ FT
LOT 94.92 ACRES
214422 SQ FT
LOT 71.36 ACRES59301 SQ FT
BAILEY AVE3.72 ACRES162150 SQ FT
LOT 61.94 ACRES
84644 SQ FT
BAILEY AVE
DAYTON AVE DAYTON AVE
BAILEY AVE
DAYTON AVE
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DESIGNED
DRAWN
CHECKED
CLIENT PROJ. NO.
DATEDESCRIPTION REV HUNZIKER DEVELOPMENT
2105 DAYTON AVE
TWA
TWA
GAB
0A1.125975
1519 BALTIMORE DRIVEAMES, IOWA 50010
Phone: (515) 233-6100
Email: Ames@bolton-menk.com
www.bolton-menk.comR
R
FEETSCALE
0 150 300
HORZ.PP.03OVERALL LAYOUT
EASEMENT LEGEND
PUBLIC UTILITY EASEMENT (P.U.E.)
ACCESS EASEMENT
STORM WATER FLOWAGE EASEMENT
STORM SEWER EASEMENT
STORM SEWER & ACCESS EASEMENT
S
0
0
°
1
4
'
0
3
"
E
2
7
5
.
0
9
S 88°45'48" E 396.74
S 88°46'47" E 924.21
N
0
0
°
4
6
'
4
7
"
W
1
3
0
1
.
9
3
990
1000
984 986 988 992 994 996 998 100
2
10
0
4
1006
10
0
6
10
0
6
1000
996
998
1002
1002
960
960
970
970
980
990
990
G
C
G
S
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
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P
P
P
H
GMM
C
C
HF
H
F
F
F
F
F
>>
>>
>>
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>>
>>
>>
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>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
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l
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l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
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EDGE OF WETLAND
EDGE OF WETLAND
EDGE OF WATER LINE
CEMETERY FENCEBOUNDARY
100
0
99
4
99
6
998 1002
EXISTING STREAM
EDGE OF WETLAND
EXISTING STREAM
EDGE OF WETLAND
40'R.O.W EASEMENT
DA
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T
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A
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FEETSCALE
0 50 100
HORZ.
SHEET
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DESIGNED
DRAWN
CHECKED
CLIENT PROJ. NO.
DATEDESCRIPTION REV HUNZIKER DEVELOPMENT
2105 DAYTON AVE
TWA
TWA
GAB
0A1.125975
1519 BALTIMORE DRIVEAMES, IOWA 50010
Phone: (515) 233-6100
Email: Ames@bolton-menk.com
www.bolton-menk.comR
PP.04EXISTING CONDITIONS
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
N
0
0
°
4
6
'
4
7
"
W
1
3
0
1
.
9
3
G
PP
GC
C
CLVT
C
F
C
CLVT
C
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X
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
>>
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BOUNDARY
EDGE OF WETLAND
980
990
100
0
982
984
98
6
988
992
99
4
99
6
998 1002
970
980
99
0
10
0
0
966
968
972
974
976
978
982
984
986
988
99
2
99
4
996
998
998
99
8
990
982
984
986
988
992
994
996
EDGE OF WETLAND
S 88°57'31" E 1305.52
DA
Y
T
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A
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FEETSCALE
0 50 100
HORZ.
SHEET
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&
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0
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2
5
9
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2
0
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2
1
2
:
2
4
:
1
0
P
M
DESIGNED
DRAWN
CHECKED
CLIENT PROJ. NO.
DATEDESCRIPTION REV HUNZIKER DEVELOPMENT
2105 DAYTON AVE
TWA
TWA
GAB
0A1.125975
1519 BALTIMORE DRIVEAMES, IOWA 50010
Phone: (515) 233-6100
Email: Ames@bolton-menk.com
www.bolton-menk.comR
PP.05EXISTING CONDITIONS
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
N
0
0
°
2
1
'
4
8
"
E
1
3
2
3
.
4
0
C
CF
G
G
C
U
U
S
D
CLVT
U
CLVTCLVT
CLVTCLVT
GP
HFM
H
W
M
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
>>
>>
P
P
P
CLVT
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
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l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
970
966
968
972
974
990
982
984
986
988
992
994
996
960
970
980
990
962
964
966
968
972
974
976
978
98
2
98
4
986
988
960
97
0
980
958
962
964
966
96
8
972
974
976
978
EDGE OF WETLAND
970 98
0968972974976978 98
2
984 986
DA
Y
T
O
N
A
V
E
R
FEETSCALE
0 50 100
HORZ.
SHEET
B
o
l
t
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&
M
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n
k
,
I
n
c
.
2
0
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2
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c H:
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9
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5
\
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\
1
2
5
9
7
5
P
P
0
4
.
d
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g
9
/
3
0
/
2
0
2
2
1
2
:
2
4
:
2
0
P
M
DESIGNED
DRAWN
CHECKED
CLIENT PROJ. NO.
DATEDESCRIPTION REV HUNZIKER DEVELOPMENT
2105 DAYTON AVE
TWA
TWA
GAB
0A1.125975
1519 BALTIMORE DRIVEAMES, IOWA 50010
Phone: (515) 233-6100
Email: Ames@bolton-menk.com
www.bolton-menk.comR
PP.06EXISTING CONDITIONS
X
X
X
N 89°23'46" W 1315.38
S S
P
C
U
U
S
S
D
U
>>>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
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S
E
>>
>>
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X F
F
F
F
l
l
960
970 98
0
958 962 96
4 966 968 972 974 976 978 98
2
984 986
EDGE OF WETLAND
PROPERTY LINE
DA
Y
T
O
N
A
V
E
R
FEETSCALE
0 50 100
HORZ.
SHEET
B
o
l
t
o
n
&
M
e
n
k
,
I
n
c
.
2
0
2
2
,
A
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3
0
/
2
0
2
2
1
2
:
2
4
:
3
0
P
M
DESIGNED
DRAWN
CHECKED
CLIENT PROJ. NO.
DATEDESCRIPTION REV HUNZIKER DEVELOPMENT
2105 DAYTON AVE
TWA
TWA
GAB
0A1.125975
1519 BALTIMORE DRIVEAMES, IOWA 50010
Phone: (515) 233-6100
Email: Ames@bolton-menk.com
www.bolton-menk.comR
PP.07EXISTING CONDITIONS
G
C
G
S
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
P
P
P
P
P
H
GMM
C
C
HF
H
F
F
F
F
F
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
DA
Y
T
O
N
A
V
E
20' ACCESS
LOT 81.38 ACRES59984 SQ FT
S88° 45' 48"E
396.74'
S0
°
1
4
'
0
3
"
E
27
5
.
0
9
'
S88° 46' 47"E
361.75'
S0
°
2
6
'
3
6
"
W
36
1
.
0
8
'
S88° 46' 47"E
234.45'
S88° 46' 47"E
274.29'
S0
°
2
6
'
3
6
"
W
25
0
.
1
7
'
S0
°
2
6
'
3
6
"
W
18
3
.
6
5
'
N0° 26' 36"E90.65'
N24° 47' 36"E
96.64'
N0
°
4
6
'
4
7
"
W
93
4
.
8
8
'
S0
°
0
4
'
1
4
"
E
25
0
.
1
6
'
S0
°
0
4
'
1
4
"
E
35
6
.
1
9
'
S89° 58' 21"E
177.05'
S89° 58' 21"E
235.93'
L=104.76'R=67.00'
Δ=89.58
S0
°
0
4
'
1
4
"
E
66
.
0
0
'
N48°
2
1
'
2
7
"
E
279.
7
7
'
N0
°
2
6
'
3
6
"
E
28
4
.
3
7
'
S24° 31' 55"E103.83'
LOT 42.01 ACRES
87574 SQ FT
LOT 52.26 ACRES98488 SQ FT
OUTLOT B11.64 ACRES506822 SQ FT
S88° 39' 47"E61.59'
S24° 31' 55"E118.32'
N0
°
2
6
'
3
6
"
E
15
0
.
1
3
'
L=125.80'
R=133.00'
Δ=54.19
L=25.15'
R=133.00'
Δ=10.83
LOT 71.36 ACRES59301 SQ FT
LOT 61.94 ACRES84644 SQ FT
15" RCP
24"
R
C
P
15" RCP
15
"
R
C
P
25' ACC
E
S
S
lllllllllllll
l
l
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>>
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>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
INT - 1
OUT - 6
OUT - 7
MH - 1
INT - 4INT - 3
OUT - 9
INT - 29
INT - 31
OUT - 8
POND B100 YEAR = 995.88
950950
960
960
970
970
980
990
990
99
0
952
952
954
954
956
956
958
958
962
962964
964966
966968
968
972
972974
974
976
976978
978
982
984
984
984
986
986
986
98
8
988
988
992
992
99
2
994
994
99
4
996
99
6
10
0
0
994
99
6
998
10
0
2
10
0
2
10
0
2
10
0
4
10
0
4
10
0
6
10
0
6
990
1000
984
986
988
992
994
99
6
998
1002
1002
1004
1004
1006
1006
10
0
0
10
0
5
99899
8
99
9
10
0
1
10
0
2
10
0
3
10
0
4
995997995998
994
996997
995994996997998
997
995
993
10
0
4
10
0
5
10
0
6
10
0
7
10
0
2
997
990
995 991
992
993
993
994
994
MPE 998.88
DO NOT DISTURB WETLAND
DO NOT DISTURBWETLAND
DO NOT DISTURBWETLAND
DO NOT DISTURBWETLAND
DO NOT DISTURBWETLAND
100 YR
SANITARY SERVICE
BEGIN ROAD WIDENING
INSTALL SIGNS TO PREVENT
LOT CREEP INTO SWFE
WATER SERVICE
R
FEETSCALE
0 50 100
HORZ.
SHEET
B
o
l
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&
M
e
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k
,
I
n
c
.
2
0
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2
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2
0
2
2
1
2
:
2
5
:
4
7
P
M
DESIGNED
DRAWN
CHECKED
CLIENT PROJ. NO.
DATEDESCRIPTION REV HUNZIKER DEVELOPMENT
2105 DAYTON AVE
TWA
TWA
GAB
0A1.125975
1519 BALTIMORE DRIVEAMES, IOWA 50010
Phone: (515) 233-6100
Email: Ames@bolton-menk.com
www.bolton-menk.comR
PP.08PROPOSED CONDITIONS
UTILITY LEGEND
STORM SEWER
8" SANITARY SEWER
8" WATERMAIN
30' SWFE ACCESS
10' PUE
EASEMENT LEGEND
PUBLIC UTILITY EASEMENT (P.U.E.)
ACCESS EASEMENT
STORM WATER FLOWAGE EASEMENT
STORM SEWER EASEMENT
STORM SEWER & ACCESS EASEMENT
G
PP
GC
C
CLVT
C
F
C
CLVT
C
G
CLVT
D
H
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
>>
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
>>
>>
>>
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>>
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>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
DA
Y
T
O
N
A
V
E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
10' P.U.E.
DAYTON AVE2.88 ACRES125444 SQ FT
LOT 310.64 ACRES
463313 SQ FT
LOT 81.38 ACRES59984 SQ FT
S0
°
2
6
'
3
6
"
W
25
0
.
1
7
'
S89° 58' 21"E
238.17'
S89° 58' 21"E
243.57'
S0
°
2
6
'
3
6
"
W
44
1
.
5
2
'
S0
°
2
6
'
3
6
"
W
18
3
.
6
5
'
S89° 33' 24"E
485.71'
S0
°
0
4
'
1
4
"
E
44
5
.
0
4
'
N89° 33' 24"W
700.47'
N0° 26' 36"E
90.65'
S89° 33' 24"E
404.88'
N0
°
4
6
'
4
7
"
W
36
7
.
0
5
'
S0
°
0
4
'
1
4
"
E
25
0
.
1
6
'
L=104.76'R=67.00'
Δ=89.58
LOT 42.01 ACRES87574 SQ FT
N0
°
2
6
'
3
6
"
E
65
9
.
0
8
'
S89° 33' 24"E
303.84'
N0
°
2
6
'
3
6
"
E
15
0
.
1
3
'
N0
°
2
1
'
4
8
"
E
20
7
.
1
1
'
LOT 94.92 ACRES214422 SQ FT
LOT 71.36 ACRES59301 SQ FT
BAILEY AVE3.72 ACRES162150 SQ FT
15
"
R
C
P
36
"
R
C
P
15" RCP
18" RCP
24" RCP
30
"
R
C
P
48
"
R
C
P
15
"
R
C
P
24" RCP
18" RCP18" RCP
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
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>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
>>
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>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
INT - 4INT - 3
INT - 5 INT - 6
INT - 7 INT - 8
INT - 9 INT - 10
99
0
99
2
99
4
996
99
6
10
0
0
994
99
6
998
990
982
984
986
988
992
994
996
970
98
0
980
990
990
1000
10
0
0
966
96
8
972
974
976
978
978
982
982
984
984
986
98
6
988
988 992
992
994
994
996
996
998
99
8
100
2
1002
100
4
1004
100
6
1006
100
8
100
8
985
98
5
99
0
99
0
990
99
0
995
995
100
0
981 982 983
98
3
984
98
4
984
98
4
98
6
98
6
98
7
98
7
98
7
98
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98
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988 988
98
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98
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99
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994
996
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7
99
8
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10
0
1
100
2
990
986
988
992
994
10
0
2
10
0
3
10
0
4
99
7
99
9
990
990
995
989
989
991
99
1
992
99
2
993
993
994
994
DO NOT DISTURBWETLAND
DISTURBED WETLAND
.08 ACRE
DISTURBED WETLAND
.07 ACRE
WATER SERVICE
WATER SERVICE
36" RCP
R
FEETSCALE
0 50 100
HORZ.
SHEET
B
o
l
t
o
n
&
M
e
n
k
,
I
n
c
.
2
0
2
2
,
A
l
l
R
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g
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t
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s
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r
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d
c H:
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H
U
N
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I
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0
A
1
1
2
5
9
7
5
\
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A
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3
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\
1
2
5
9
7
5
P
P
0
8
.
d
w
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9
/
3
0
/
2
0
2
2
1
2
:
2
5
:
5
5
P
M
DESIGNED
DRAWN
CHECKED
CLIENT PROJ. NO.
DATEDESCRIPTION REV HUNZIKER DEVELOPMENT
2105 DAYTON AVE
TWA
TWA
GAB
0A1.125975
1519 BALTIMORE DRIVEAMES, IOWA 50010
Phone: (515) 233-6100
Email: Ames@bolton-menk.com
www.bolton-menk.comR
PP.09PROPOSED CONDITIONS
UTILITY LEGEND
STORM SEWER
8" SANITARY SEWER
8" WATERMAIN
EASEMENT LEGEND
PUBLIC UTILITY EASEMENT (P.U.E.)
ACCESS EASEMENT
STORM WATER FLOWAGE EASEMENT
STORM SEWER EASEMENT
STORM SEWER & ACCESS EASEMENT
C
CF
G
G
C
U
U
S
D
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CLVTCLVT
CLVTCLVT
GP
HFM
H
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>>
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>
>>
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P
P
P
CLVT
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
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>>
>>
>>
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l
l
l
l
l
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l
l
l
l
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l
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l
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l
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DA
Y
T
O
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A
V
E
P
P
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X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
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X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
N0
°
2
1
'
4
8
"
E
45
1
.
9
6
'
S0
°
2
6
'
3
6
"
W
67
9
.
5
7
'
S89° 33' 23"E
425.41'
S0
°
0
4
'
1
4
"
E
74
6
.
6
0
'
S39° 57' 51"W93.68'
S0
°
0
4
'
1
4
"
E
40
6
.
3
1
'
N0
°
2
1
'
4
8
"
E
37
2
.
2
2
'
S39° 57' 51"W68.58'
N0
°
2
1
'
4
8
"
E
37
2
.
2
2
'
S89° 33' 24"E
426.00'
L=105.24'R=67.00'
Δ=90.00
S0
°
0
4
'
1
4
"
E
66
.
0
0
'
OUTLOT A6.26 ACRES272472 SQ FT
L=30.07'R=133.00'
Δ=12.95
L=78.28'R=133.00'
Δ=33.72
L=100.58'R=133.00'
Δ=43.33
LOT 210.63 ACRES462863 SQ FT
LOT 15.01 ACRES218211 SQ FT
N0
°
2
6
'
3
6
"
E
49
5
.
5
4
'
N89° 33' 24"W
676.19'
S2
°
1
3
'
4
9
"
E
37
4
.
6
8
'
N0
°
2
1
'
4
8
"
E
20
7
.
1
1
'
LOT 108.36 ACRES364153 SQ FT
48
"
R
C
P
48
"
R
C
P
15" RCP
15" RCP
24"
R
C
P
15
"
R
C
P
48
"
R
C
P
48"
R
C
P
48"
R
C
P
15"
R
C
P
15" RCP
15" RCP 15
"
R
C
P
48
"
R
C
P
15" RCP
30"
R
C
P
18" RCP18" RCP36" RCP
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l l l l l l l l l l l l
l l l l
l
l
l
l
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>>>>>>>>>>>B
EX - A
C
E
D
>
>
>>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
A
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>>>>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>>>
>>
>>
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
>>
>>
>>
>>INT - 21
INT - 22INT - 20
INT - 19
INT - 12INT - 11
INT - 18
INT - 14INT - 13
INT - 17
INT - 16
OUT - 2
OUT - 1
MH - 7
OUT - 3
OUT - 5
OUT - 4
OUT - 10
OUT - 11
POND ANWL = 963100 YEAR = 969.76
FOR
E
B
A
Y
#
1
FOR
E
B
A
Y
#
2
FORE
B
A
Y
#
3
990
982
984
986
988
992
994
970
966
96
8
972
960
970 98
0
95
6 958 96
2
96
4
96
6
968 972 974 976 978 98
2
98
4 986 98
6
98
6
98
8
98
8
96
5
97
0
97
5
98
0
985
990
96
6
96
7
96
8
96
9 97
1
97
2
97
3
97
4 97
6
977
978
97
9
981
98
2
98
2982
983
984
986
987 98
8
989
99
1
992 99
3
98
0 98
5 99
0
990990
97
9 98
1
98
2
98
3
98
4
98
6
98
7 98
8
98
8
98
8 98
9
98
9
98
9 99
1
992
965
970970
964
966967968969
97
5
97
2
97
3
97
4
97
6
96
0
960
970
97
0
980
980
990
990
95
8
958
96
2
962
96
4
964
96
6
966
968
968
972
97
2
974
97
4
976
976
97
8
978
98
2
98
2
98
4
984
98
6
986
98
8
988
992
992
994 994
994
963964966968970
970
966968
971970
969970971970971
969969
99
3
99
5
99
4
99
6
966
965
963956
962962
960959
95
6
963
965
963
963
963
971
965
956 963
970
MPE 972.76
MPE 972.76
NWL
DISTURBED WETLAND
.07 ACRE
SANITARY SERVICE
100 YR
WATER SERVICE
R
FEETSCALE
0 50 100
HORZ.
SHEET
B
o
l
t
o
n
&
M
e
n
k
,
I
n
c
.
2
0
2
2
,
A
l
l
R
i
g
h
t
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e
s
e
r
v
e
d
c H:
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H
U
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0
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1
1
2
5
9
7
5
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A
D
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C
3
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\
1
2
5
9
7
5
P
P
0
8
.
d
w
g
9
/
3
0
/
2
0
2
2
1
2
:
2
6
:
0
2
P
M
DESIGNED
DRAWN
CHECKED
CLIENT PROJ. NO.
DATEDESCRIPTION REV HUNZIKER DEVELOPMENT
2105 DAYTON AVE
TWA
TWA
GAB
0A1.125975
1519 BALTIMORE DRIVEAMES, IOWA 50010
Phone: (515) 233-6100
Email: Ames@bolton-menk.com
www.bolton-menk.comR
PP.10PROPOSED CONDITIONS
UTILITY LEGEND
STORM SEWER
8" SANITARY SEWER
8" WATERMAIN
10' P.U.E.
EASEMENT LEGEND
PUBLIC UTILITY EASEMENT (P.U.E.)
ACCESS EASEMENT
STORM WATER FLOWAGE EASEMENT
STORM SEWER EASEMENT
STORM SEWER & ACCESS EASEMENT
20' WEIRELEV:970.5
S S
P
C
U
U
S
S
D
U
CLVTCLVT
>>>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
E
S
E
CLVT
>>
>>
X
X
X
X
X
X F
F
F
F
l
l
DA
Y
T
O
N
A
V
E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
20' STORM SEWEREASEMENT
N89° 23' 46"W
529.64'N89° 23' 46"W
732.04'15" RCP
15"
R
C
P
15" RCP
30"
R
C
P
EX - A
>
>
A
>>>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>>>>>>>>>>
>>
>>
>>
>>>>>>>>>>
>>
INT - 30MH - 2MH - 3
OUT - 2
OUT - 5
INT - 30INT - 30INT - 30
FORE
B
A
Y
#
3
970
97
0
97
2
97
2
97
4
97
4
97
6
97
6
97
8
978
98
0
98
0
98
0
97
6
97
6
97
8
97
8
98
2
98
2
98
2
98
4
984
960
970 98
0
95
6 958 96
2
96
4
96
6
968 972 974 976 978 98
2
98
4 986 98
6
98
6
98
8
98
8
960
965
970970
961962963964
966967968969
97
5
97
2
97
3
97
4
97
6
970
966968
971970
98
0
98
1
98
2
98
4
986
97
5
97
4
97
5
97
6
97
6
966
962962
PROPERTY LINE
DO NOT DISTURB WETLAND
END ROAD WIDENING
R
FEETSCALE
0 50 100
HORZ.
SHEET
B
o
l
t
o
n
&
M
e
n
k
,
I
n
c
.
2
0
2
2
,
A
l
l
R
i
g
h
t
s
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e
s
e
r
v
e
d
c H:
\
H
U
N
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I
\
0
A
1
1
2
5
9
7
5
\
C
A
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C
3
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\
1
2
5
9
7
5
P
P
0
8
.
d
w
g
9
/
3
0
/
2
0
2
2
1
2
:
2
6
:
0
8
P
M
DESIGNED
DRAWN
CHECKED
CLIENT PROJ. NO.
DATEDESCRIPTION REV HUNZIKER DEVELOPMENT
2105 DAYTON AVE
TWA
TWA
GAB
0A1.125975
1519 BALTIMORE DRIVEAMES, IOWA 50010
Phone: (515) 233-6100
Email: Ames@bolton-menk.com
www.bolton-menk.comR
PP.11PROPOSED CONDITIONS
UTILITY LEGEND
STORM SEWER
8" SANITARY SEWER
8" WATERMAIN
EASEMENT LEGEND
PUBLIC UTILITY EASEMENT (P.U.E.)
ACCESS EASEMENT
STORM WATER FLOWAGE EASEMENT
STORM SEWER EASEMENT
STORM SEWER & ACCESS EASEMENT
G
C
G
S
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
P
P
P
P
P
H
GMM
C
C
HF
H
F
F
F
F
F
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
POND B100 YEAR = 995.88 DA
Y
T
O
N
A
V
E
985 990
995
1000
10
0
5
984 986987988989 991 992 993994 996 997 998 999 1001 100
2
1003
100
3
100
3
10
0
4
1006
10
0
6
10
0
6
1007
10
0
7
1007
995
1000
996
997
998
999
1001
1002
1002
10031003
955
955960
960
965
965
970
970
975
975
980
985
985
990
990
995
995
99
5
100
0
99
3
99
4
99
6
99
7
998 999 1001 1002 100
3
99
5
10
0
0
10
0
5
996
997
998
99
9
10
0
1
10
0
2
10
0
3
10
0
4
10
0
6
990
991
992
993
994
DO NOT DISTURB WETLAND
DO NOT DISTURB WETLAND
DO NOT DISTURBWETLAND
DO NOT DISTURB WETLAND
DO NOT DISTURBSTREAM
LOT 8 LOT 7
LOT 6
LOT 4
LOT 5
OUTLOT B
R
FEETSCALE
0 50 100
HORZ.
SHEET
B
o
l
t
o
n
&
M
e
n
k
,
I
n
c
.
2
0
2
2
,
A
l
l
R
i
g
h
t
s
R
e
s
e
r
v
e
d
c H:
\
H
U
N
Z
I
\
0
A
1
1
2
5
9
7
5
\
C
A
D
\
C
3
D
\
1
2
5
9
7
5
P
P
1
2
.
d
w
g
9
/
3
0
/
2
0
2
2
1
2
:
2
6
:
3
0
P
M
DESIGNED
DRAWN
CHECKED
CLIENT PROJ. NO.
DATEDESCRIPTION REV HUNZIKER DEVELOPMENT
2105 DAYTON AVE
TWA
TWA
GAB
0A1.125975
1519 BALTIMORE DRIVEAMES, IOWA 50010
Phone: (515) 233-6100
Email: Ames@bolton-menk.com
www.bolton-menk.comR
PP.12STREET TREE & LANDSCAPING PLAN
STREET TREE NOTES:
1. TREES SHALL BE PLANTED WITHIN THE RIGHT-OF-WAY WITHIN THE SUBDIVISION. TREES SHALL BE PLANTED IN ACCORDANCE WITHTHE REQUIREMENTS OF SECTION 23.402 OF SUBDIVISION ORDINANCE.
2. THE SPACING SHALL BE ADJUSTED AS A RESULT OF DRIVE OPENINGS, UNDERGROUND UTILITIES, STREET LIGHTS, AND OTHERPOTENTIAL OBSTRUCTIONS.
3. A MINIMUM OF NINE (9) SQUARE FEET OF AREA SHALL BE MAINTAINED FOR EACH TREE AND NO IMPERVIOUS MATERIAL SHALL BE
INSTALLED CLOSER THAN THIRTY (30) INCHES TO THE TRUCK OF THE TREE.
4. TREES SHALL NOT BE LOCATED CLOSER THAN TWO AND ONE-HALF (2-1/2) FEET TO THE BACK OF CURB OR THE SIDEWALK LINE.WHERE THE DISTANCE BETWEEN THE BACK OF THE CURB AND THE SIDEWALK IS GREATER THAN EIGHT (8) FEET, TREES SHALL BEPLANTED WITHIN FOUR (4) FEET OF THE SIDEWALK LINE.
5. TREES SHALL NOT BE PLANTED CLOSER THAN THIRTY (30) FEET FROM THE CORNER AT INTERSECTIONS AND SHALL NOT BE CLOSERTHAN TWENTY (20) FEET TO THE INTERSECTION OF THE FRONT AND SIDE LOT LINE ON A CORNER LOT.
6. TREES SHALL NOT BE LOCATED CLOSER TO A STREET LIGHT POLE THAN THE DISTANCE OF THE SPREAD OF THE TREE AT MATURITY.THE DISTANCE SHALL BE MEASURED FROM THE CENTER OF THE TREE TO THE CENTER OF THE POLE.
LEGEND
LOW-GROW GRASS
WETLAND SEEDING
TYPE III SEEDING
TYPE IV SEEDING
TYPE IV SHALL BE THE FOLLOWING
·REFER TO SUDAS FOR GRASS MIXTURE ANDSEEDING RATE
WETLAND MIXTURE SHALL BE THE FOLLOWING
·REFER TO SUDAS FOR WETLAND MIXTURE AND
SEEDING RATE
LOW-GROW GRASS MIXTURE SHALL BE THEFOLLOWING
·SUBDIVISION MIXTURE BY UNITED SEED, OR
·APPROVED EQUAL
SEED RATE: 32 LBS/ACRE
SEEDING DEPTH: 1/4"
15% SIDEOATS GRAMA
10% BLUE GRAMA20% HARD FINE FESCUE
20% SHEEP FINE FESCUE25% BLUE FINE FESCUE
15% LITTLE BLUESTEM15% COVER CROP
TYPE III SEED MIXTURE SHALL BE THE FOLLOWING
·REFER TO SUDAS FOR TYPE III SEED MIXTURE AND SEEDING RATE
G
PP
GC
C
CLVT
C
F
C
CLVT
C
G
CLVT
D
H
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
>>
X
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
DA
Y
T
O
N
A
V
E
980
98
5
990
99
5
100
0
979
981 982
983
984
98
6
98
7
988
989
991
992
99
3
99
4
99
6
99
7
998 999 1001 1002 100
3
970
975
980
985
99
0
995
10
0
0
966
967
968
969
971972973974
976977
978979
981
982
983
984
986
987
988
98
9
991
99
1
99
1
99
2
993
99
4
996
997
997997
99
7
99
7
998
998
99
8
99
9
985
990
995
981
982
983 984
986 987 988 989
991 992 993 994
996
997
990
988988
989
991
992
993
994
98
0
985
99
0
995
100
0
97
9
98
198
2
982
982982
982
983
984
98
4984
98
6 98
7
98
7
98
7
98
8
989
991
992
993
994
996
997
998
999
10
0
1
100
2
10
0
3
LOT 3
LOT 8
LOT 9
LOT 7
LOT 4
R
FEETSCALE
0 50 100
HORZ.
SHEET
B
o
l
t
o
n
&
M
e
n
k
,
I
n
c
.
2
0
2
2
,
A
l
l
R
i
g
h
t
s
R
e
s
e
r
v
e
d
c H:
\
H
U
N
Z
I
\
0
A
1
1
2
5
9
7
5
\
C
A
D
\
C
3
D
\
1
2
5
9
7
5
P
P
1
2
.
d
w
g
9
/
3
0
/
2
0
2
2
1
2
:
2
6
:
3
3
P
M
DESIGNED
DRAWN
CHECKED
CLIENT PROJ. NO.
DATEDESCRIPTION REV HUNZIKER DEVELOPMENT
2105 DAYTON AVE
TWA
TWA
GAB
0A1.125975
1519 BALTIMORE DRIVEAMES, IOWA 50010
Phone: (515) 233-6100
Email: Ames@bolton-menk.com
www.bolton-menk.comR
PP.13STREET TREE & LANDSCAPING PLAN
LEGEND
LOW-GROW GRASS
WETLAND SEEDING
TYPE III SEEDING
TYPE IV SEEDING
C
CF
G
G
C
U
U
S
D
CLVT
U
CLVTCLVT
CLVTCLVT
GP
HFM
H
W
M
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
>>
>>
P
P
P
CLVT
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>>>>>>>>>>>
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
POND ANWL = 963100 YEAR = 969.76
DA
Y
T
O
N
A
V
E
970
975
966
967
968
969
971972973974
985
990
995
981
982
983 984
986 987 988 989
991 992 993 994
996
960
965
970
975
980
98
5
985
98
5
990
959
96
1
962
963 964
966
967
968
969
971972
973
974
976
977
978
979
98
1 98
2 98
3 98
4
986
987
988
989
960
965
97
0
975
980
958
959
961
962
963
964
966
967
96
8
96
9
97
1
972
973
974
976
977
978
979
981
98
0
97
9
98
1
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DATEDESCRIPTION REV HUNZIKER DEVELOPMENT
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CLIENT PROJ. NO.
DATEDESCRIPTION REV HUNZIKER DEVELOPMENT
2105 DAYTON AVE
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1519 BALTIMORE DRIVEAMES, IOWA 50010
Phone: (515) 233-6100
Email: Ames@bolton-menk.com
www.bolton-menk.comR
PP.15STREET TREE & LANDSCAPING PLAN
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CLIENT PROJ. NO.
DATEDESCRIPTION REV HUNZIKER DEVELOPMENT
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1519 BALTIMORE DRIVEAMES, IOWA 50010
Phone: (515) 233-6100
Email: Ames@bolton-menk.com
www.bolton-menk.comR
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FEETSCALE
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HORZ.PP.16SITE EXHIBIT
FUTURERETAINING WALL
FUTURERETAINING WALL
14' CLEAR ZONE
14'
ITEM # __26b__
DATE: 10-11-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: TAX INCREMENT FINANCING AGREEMENT FOR SMALL LOT
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT SUBDIVISION LOCATED AT 2105 &
2421 DAYTON AVENUE
BACKGROUND:
In April, the City Council reviewed draft terms for development agreement providing a tax
increment financing (TIF) incentive for the development of a small lot industrial subdivision
represented by Chuck Winkleblack. Based upon the terms from the spring of 2022 and
recent changes to a 10-lot proposal, City Council directed staff to draft a Development
Agreement with Dayton Avenue Development LLC for a new 10 lot Industrial Subdivision
proposed at 2105 & 2421 Dayton Avenue. The reason for the TIF agreement is to rebate
the developer for the costs of installing public infrastructure to provide for a
subdivision that will have half of its lots designed for small industrial businesses
on lots less than 3 acres in size and a commitment to build speculative industrial
buildings.
The Developer has now prepared and submitted a Preliminary Plat for consideration and
approval as a separate agenda item. In conjunction with the Preliminary Plat, staff and the
developer have agreed to terms of the TIF Development Agreement, which is attached to
this report (Attachment A). The terms are consistent with the direction of City Council from
April. Notably, the value of the incentive was undetermined in April. The developer and
staff projected a costs of up to $2.6 million. The TIF request is approximately $2.968 million
with the final project, which includes additional costs related to a concrete street compared
to an asphalt industrial street.
The Developer has agreed to install all water, sanitary sewer, public storm sewer, street
paving and associated improvements to City standards within the next year along with
obtaining approval of a final plat. The Developer will provide 5 small lots and 5 large lots
and agrees to the design standards for all buildings in the subdivision included with the
TIF Development Agreement.
The public improvements to be financed with the TIF rebate do not include any costs
related to potential connection fees for the existing 12-inch water main. The 12-inch water
line was constructed by the developer of the Eagle’s Loft as part of a 1995 Utili ty service
agreement. The 1995 agreement was unique in that it allowed for the annexation and
development of the land for the daycare with utilities located approximately ½ mile to the
south. The 1995 agreement included a provision where the City Council could establish
a connection district to reimburse the developer. However, the connection district was not
created and the connection district can no longer be created as stated within the
development agreement.
As a result, the Eagle’s Loft developer is not able to recoup some of the water line
construction cost as intended at the time of the 1995 agreement. In the event City Council
were able to legally reimburse the developer and desires to do so, those costs would be
charged to the North Dayton Subdivision developer or the City would have to identify
another means of reimbursing the Eagle’s Loft developer.
In order to clarify this situation, the City Council would need to direct staff to investigate
this issue further and see if the Eagle’s Loft developer has records of the actual costs
incurred related to the 1995 agreement. Given the uncertainty of the City’s legal options,
cost for reimbursing the Eagle’s Loft developer has not been included in this TIF
development agreement.
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT SUMMARY
Conditions Precedent: The agreement is being approved based upon two subsequent
actions occurring. The agreement is nonbinding to either party if the developer chooses
not to final plat or if the City does not establish an Urban Renewal Area to collect TIF.
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 5 small lots (less than 3 acres)
2. Infrastructure:
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 On Lots Less Than Three Acres:
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 November 30, 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, dead storage and salvage uses.
b. Design requirements for all buildings, included with the agreement.
5. Valuation and Taxes:
a. Minimum improvement value on each of the lots greater than three acres 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 ($108,900 per acre) with a 5% allowance for an annual
increase.
City 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 $2,968,264, subject to staff verification
of actual costs of infrastructure.
d. Rebate payments for period of January 1, 2023 through December 1, 2035
totaling $2,968,264, whichever occurs first.
e. TIF reimbursement is subject to annual appropriation by City Council.
(Note: This annual appropriation is different than previously discussed
with the City Council. The developer is now in support of the annual
appropriation clause which benefits the City in that the rebate amount
will not count against the City’s debt limit.)
ALTERNATIVES
1. The City Council can approve a Development Agreement with Dayton Avenue
Development LLC that includes a TIF rebate payments not to exceed $2,968,264
or the period ending December 1, 2035 , whichever occurs first, for 10 lots in the
North Dayton Avenue Industrial Park Subdivision, and direct staff to prepare a draft
urban renewal plan for the North Dayton Subdivision for City Council review by
November 8th.
2. The City Council can choose to not approve a Tax Increment Financing
Development Agreement with Dayton Avenue Development LLC for an amount
not to exceed $2,968,264 for 10 lots in the North Dayton Avenue Industrial Park
Subdivision if it finds the Agreement does not support the goal of providing
economic development opportunities for small industrial businesses or does not
agree with the financial reimbursement amount.
3. The City Council refer this item back to staff to continue to work with the Developer
to make further changes to the Agreement.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION
Staff believes that the proposed agreement meets the intent of City Council to provide for
economic development for smaller sized industrial businesses and provides for the
necessary financial reimbursements to the developer for construction of the qualifying
Public Improvements. This agreement represents the opportunity to continue to expand
the City’s industrial tax base in the long term and staff views the reimbursement to the
Developer as appropriate to meet the City Councils goals.
Since the meeting in April, the developer has moved forward with final designs for the
subdivision consistent with the terms of the agreement. The cost of improvements is
estimated by the developer based upon bids from contractors and reviewed with City staff.
The $2.9 million value includes a 5% contingency for the developer. The developer will
be reimbursed for actual costs not to exceed the $2.9 68 million. The developer has also
agreed since the April meeting to include the annual appropriation clause in the
agreement, which then does not require the City to account for the $2.968 million against
the City’s debt limit.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative #1 which is to approve the Tax Increment Finance (TIF) Development
Agreement.
Attachment A- Draft Development Agreement
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
FOR NORTH DAYTON AVENUE INDUSTRIAL PARK
THIS DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT (“Agreement”) is made and entered into this
____ day of ________, 2022, by and between the CITY OF AMES, IOWA (hereinafter the “City”)
and DAYTON AVENUE DEVELOPMENT, LLC (hereinafter the “Developer”) (the City,
Developer or other Buyers are sometimes collectively referred to herein as the “Parties”).
WHEREAS, the Developer responded to a Request for Proposal to develop as small lot
industrial subdivision to further economic development goals of the City of Ames; and,
WHEREAS, Developer’s proposal for the following property (hereinafter the “Property”)
locally known as 2105 & 2421 Dayton Avenue, Ames, Iowa (Parcels No. 05-36-200-405 & 05-
36-200-210) and legally described as:
The Southeast Quarter (SE¼) of the Northeast Quarter (NE¼) of Section Thirty-six (36); the
Northeast Quarter (NE ¼) of the Northeast Quarter (NE¼), of Section Thirty-six (36) except the
North 1 rod and except A part of the NE¼ of the NE¼ of Sec. 36-T84-R24W of the 5th P.M., Story
County, Iowa, described as follows: Beginning at a point on the east line, 16.5 feet south of the
NE Corner of said NE¼ of the NE¼; thence N88°41’W 925.0 feet, parallel and 16.5 feet distant
from the north line of said NE¼ of the NE¼, thence South 275.0 feet, thence S88°41’E 925.0 feet
to the east line of said NE¼ of the NE¼; thence North 275.0 feet to the point of beginning.
included improvement and subdivision of approximately 73 acres of land and the construction of
speculative buildings (hereinafter the “Project”); and,
WHEREAS, the Developer desires that the City facilitate the Project with certain tax
increment financing incentives for the construction of Public Improvements to serve the Project;
and,
WHEREAS, the City has a policy of encouraging projects of economic development that
have the potential for providing substantial increases in permanent employment opportunities,
added revenue support for government services, and expansion of the property tax base.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of these premises and of the mutual promises
hereinafter set out, the Parties hereto agree, and covenant as follows:
I. CONDITIONS PRECEDENT. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary
contained in this Agreement, City and Developer acknowledge and agree that
the effectiveness of this Agreement shall be subject to the following
conditions precedent:
a. Developer must prepare for the Property subdivision plans and submit a
complete application for a Final Plat (Major Subdivision) approval
consistent with the state law and the Ames Municipal Code no later than
June 30, 2023.
b. The Ames City Council, within its complete and sole discretion, creates an
Urban Renewal Area (URA) and Plan for the Property that includes tax
increment financing no later than February 1, 2023.
If either of the above stated Conditions Precedent are not satisfied this
Agreement shall be null and void and of no further force or effect.
II. DEVELOPER OBLIGATIONS
1. DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION. The Developer shall be responsible for the design of the Project,
including the design and construction of all public infrastructure improvements within the
development and frontage improvements serving the development, all according to City
specifications.
2. PLATTING. Preparation and submission to the City of all documents and drawings required to
create a final plat of subdivision of the Property (as depicted on the preliminary plat attached hereto
as Exhibit “A”, (the “Subdivision”) in accordance with applicable laws and ordinances shall be
the responsibility of the Developer. Additionally, the following conditions shall apply to the
Subdivision:
a. The Subdivision shall substantially conform to Exhibit A and at a minimum consist
of 5 lots equal to or less than 3 acres in size (a “Small Lot”) and 5 lots less than 11 acres in size.
b. Subject to the requirements set forth herein, Developer shall not be eligible for a
TIF rebate payment until such time as the full Subdivision is final platted and the public
improvements accepted by the Ames Public Works Director.
c. Developer shall dedicate all rights-of-way and easements required by the City for
the development of the Subdivision at no cost to the City.
3. FIRST SPECULATIVE BUILDING. The Developer shall complete construction of a building (the
“First Speculative Building”) to a “shell condition” on a Small Lot within the Subdivision in
accordance with the regulations of the City, not later than November 30th, 2023.
4. VALUE AND SIZE, FIRST SPECULATIVE BUILDING. The First Speculative Building in a shell
condition shall have an assessed taxable value, exclusive of land, of not less than $500,000; and
shall have not less than 10,000 square feet of floor area.
5. SUBSEQUENT SPECULATIVE BUILDINGS. Not later than eighteen (18) months after the
construction and occupancy of the First Speculative Building, or not later than eighteen (18)
months after the First Speculative Building is no longer speculative in nature, whichever occurs
first, the Developer shall complete the construction of a second building to the same terms of the
First Speculative Building (Sections 5 & 6).
Thereafter, not later than eighteen (18) months after the construction and occupancy of a
Subsequent Speculative Building, or not later than eighteen (18) months after a Subsequent
Speculative Building is no longer speculative in nature, whichever occurs first, the next speculative
buildings shall be constructed to the same terms of the First Speculative Building.
a. The construction of all subsequent speculative buildings shall follow the 18-month
schedule described above until such time as all of the Small Lots are developed.
b. A Small Lot acquired by a bona-fide Third-Party that is not the Developer is exempt
from the Subsequent Speculative Building schedule and associated requirements. A bona-fide
Third Party is a person or entity which is completely independent from the Developer and each
member thereof in reference to ownership or management control, or both. The City shall be
entitled to documentation, upon its request, to verify the legal status and ownership of any party
claiming to be exempt as a bona-fide Third Party.
6. SPECULATIVE BUILDING. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, for
purposes of this Agreement, the term “Speculative Building” shall mean a building, whether
completed or under construction, which is open and available for sale or lease and actively
marketed for such purposes. Furthermore, the phrase “no longer speculative in nature” shall mean
that the First Speculative Building, Second Speculative Building, or any Subsequent Speculative
Building whether completed or under construction, is no longer open and available for sale or lease
or is not actively marketed for such purposes.
7. LAND PRICE CEILING. The Developer, or Developer’s successors and assigns, may not transfer
any of the lots within the Subdivision, or any portion thereof, for a price greater than the price per
acre of $108,900, plus an increase of five percent (5%) per acre ($5,445) on July 1 of each year
beginning July 1, 2024 (the “Price Ceiling”). It is the understanding of the Parties that when title
to a lot within the Subdivision is in the name of a Third-Party (a “Third Party Lot”), the
Developer shall not be liable, in any way, for any sale of a Third-Party Lot at a price more than
the Price Ceiling.
8. TAX ABATEMENT. The Developer, and any lot owner of record, as the case may be, shall not
apply for the industrial property tax exemption provided by Ames Municipal Code Sections 24.8
to 24.13 pursuant to Chapter 427B of the Code of Iowa, or for any other tax exemption that may
be or become available to the Developer or lot owner of record, except as follows:
a. The Developer, and any lot owner of record, may apply for the industrial property tax
exemption on any lot equal to or greater than 5 acres in size.
9. AGRICULTURAL CLASSIFICATION. In order to minimize speculative land holdings and spur
immediate economic development activities, the Developer and Developer’s successors and
assigns shall not seek an Agricultural Classification for any lots except for those lots greater than
5 acres in size; however, the right to seek an Agricultural Classification shall be personal to the
Developer and not the successors and assigns of the Developer.
10. USE RESTRICTIONS. Developer, and Developer’s successors and assigns, agree to prohibit
the development of principal uses involving outdoor storage, mini-storage, dead storage, salvage
and commercial parking on any lot within this Subdivision.
11. MINIMUM ASSESSMENT. Developer agrees to enter into a Minimum Assessment Agreement
with the City and City Assessor for all lots exceeding 3 acres that authorizes the City Assessor to
establish an assessment on buildings that are constructed on said lots at a taxable value of, at least,
$350,000 per acre of the lot. This minimum assessment requirement will terminate once the
Developer Rebate schedule ends. The Developer agrees to file individual assessment agreements
for building improvements with the Story County Assessor. Each agreement must be recorded
prior to any Site Development Plan approval by the City of Ames.
12. BUILDING QUALITY. In order to assure that the buildings constructed on the lots within the
Subdivision are of a superior quality, the Developer agrees to the design guidelines attached hereto
as Exhibit “B” and by this reference incorporated herein.
13. TIMELINE FOR CONSTRUCTING BUILDINGS. The intent of the Project is for purchasers of the
lots within the Subdivision to make improvements promptly and not to hold the property in an
undeveloped state or to delay making improvements. Therefore, the purchaser of any lot within
the Subdivision shall complete construction of all building improvements within eighteen (18)
months of taking title to a lot. If the construction of all building improvements does not begin
within one (1) year of taking title to the lot, then the purchasers shall make the lot available for
sale to any willing buyer, including the developer, in accordance with the land price ceiling.
14. PENALTIES FOR FAILURE TO CONSTRUCT. Failure to construct speculative buildings
according to the agreed upon timeline in this agreement shall result in a penalty of $15,000 for the
first building delay and an additional $15,000 penalty for every 12 months thereafter. If additional
speculative buildings fail to meet the timelines set forth in this Agreement, Developer shall be
subject to a penalty of $20,000 for each additional building delay and an additional $20,000 penalty
for every 12 months thereafter. Developer shall timely pay said penalty to the City within 30 days
of notice of violation of this section. A failure to timely pay a penalty imposed on a Lot shall
constitute a lien against every unimproved lot owned by the Developer within the Subdivision.
15. PAYMENTS IN LIEU OF TAXES. With respect to any lot within the Subdivision that may be
exempt from property taxes or may from time-to-time become exempt from property taxes
pursuant to section 427.1 of the Code of Iowa (or any other provision of the laws of the State of
Iowa), the Developer, or the lot owner of record, as the case may be, shall make to the City for its
own purposes an annual payment in lieu of property taxes, on the dates when property taxes are
due, in such amount as shall then be equal to the amount that would have been payable as property
taxes if the property, with or without improvements, was not exempt as aforesaid. This obligation
to make payments in lieu of taxes shall terminate once the Developer Rebate schedule ends.
16. DEVELOPMENT OF LOTS. The Developer agrees and acknowledges that the City will not
approve a site development plan for any lot in the Subdivision that does not propose to construct
a building in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.
17. HIGH-SPEED INTERNET. The installation of high-speed internet infrastructure (download rates
exceeding 100 mbps and upload speeds exceeding 20 mbps) is required at the time of development
of the subdivision and shall be at the sole responsibility and expense of the Developer. Proof of
installation of high-speed internet to the subdivision shall be provided prior to the City
authorization of the first TIF rebate payment.
18. WITHHOLDING OF PERMITS FOR NON-COMPLIANCE. Developer agrees that the City may
withhold future City approvals or permits related to any property within the subdivision that does
not comply with terms of this agreement or the covenants. The City will not withhold future
approvals or permits for other lots within the subdivision that are not the subject of a determination
of noncompliance.
III. CITY’S OBLIGATIONS
1. URBAN RENEWAL AREA & TIF DISTRICT. The City will institute proceedings for the
establishment of the North Dayton Urban Renewal Area and a Tax Increment Finance District
coterminous with the boundaries of the Project (the “North Dayton URA”), pursuant to Chapter
403 of the Code of Iowa, concurrent with the consideration of the Subdivision. The Developer
acknowledges that this Agreement is contingent upon City Council consideration and approval of
the North Dayton URA and TIF District and that the City Council may not, in its sole discretion,
approve the North Dayton URA and TIF District.
2. TIF PROCEEDS. In recognition of the Developers Obligations set out above the City agrees to
make developer rebate payments as an economic development incentive for the development of
the Project from incremental property taxes generated within the North Dayton URA. The
Developer shall receive the TIF rebate payment in each fiscal year during the term of this
agreement, pursuant to Chapters 15A and 203 of the Code of Iowa, provided, however that the
aggregate total amount of the payments shall not exceed, $2,968,264.00, and all payments shall be
subject to annual appropriation by the City Council.
3. TIF DEVELOPER REBATE PAYMENTS. Payments will be made on December 1 and June 1 of
each fiscal year, beginning in the first fiscal year for which the City receives incremental property
tax revenues with respect to an increase in the taxable valuation of the property over the valuation
shown on the tax rolls as of January 1, 2023, and continuing until December 1, 2035, or until such
earlier date upon which total payments equal to $2,968,264.00 have been made. The payments
shall not constitute general obligation debt of the City but shall be made solely and only from
Incremental Property Tax Revenues paid that are attributable to the properties within the North
Dayton URA that are received by the City from the Story County Treasurer. For example, if an
increase in taxable valuation of the Property is placed on the Story County tax rolls as of January
1, 2024, the first payment will be made on December 1, 2025.
4. SUBSTANTIATION REQUIRED FOR DEVELOPER REBATE PAYMENTS. Notwithstanding anything
to the contrary, the total of all rebate payments to be made by the City, as contemplated by
paragraph 3 above, shall not exceed actual expenses incurred by the Developer, including its
successors and assigns, under any circumstances. Developer shall provide the City with invoices,
receipts, and other substantiation to prove Developer’s actual costs as may be requested by the
City. Eligible expenses for rebate payments shall be limited to the following public infrastructure
items: water main, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, street paving, sidewalks and shared use paths, and
electrical conduits. If the actual total of Developer’s eligible expenditures is lower than the
$2,968,264.00 as set forth in Exhibit “C” attached hereto, the City shall not be obligated to provide
rebate payments in excess of the actual expenses.
5. ANNUAL APPROPRIATION. Each rebate payment shall be subject to annual appropriation by the
City Council prior to its statutory deadline of certifying debt (i.e., December 1st of each year)
during the term of this agreement. The City Council shall consider the question of obligating for
appropriation to the funding of the rebate payments due in the next succeeding fiscal year, an
amount of Incremental Property Tax Revenues to be collected in such following fiscal year equal
to the City’s estimate of the amount of Incremental Property tax revenues that could be collected
in such year. Each such estimate shall be based on then current consolidated property tax levy and
most recent incremental valuation of the property.
To the extent that the City Council decides to obligate funds for appropriation to the rebate
payments, the City agrees to certify to the Story County Auditor by December 1 of each year
during the terms of this Agreement an amount equal to the most recently determined appropriated
amount.
6. PROJECT APPROVALS. The City agrees to not unreasonably withhold or delay approval of the
Final Plat or subsequent Minor Site Development Plans except as outlined in this agreement and
for consistency with applicable criteria of the Ames Municipal Code.
IV. ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
1. This Agreement may not be amended or assigned by either party without the express permission
of the other party. However, the City hereby consents to Developer’s proposed written Assignment
of TIF rebate payments to a lender, as security, without further action on the part of the City.
2. Any and all provisions of this Agreement may be amended, cancelled or extended by the mutual
agreement of the Parties in writing.
3. This Agreement, and all promises and covenants herein expressed, shall be a covenant running
with the Subdivision, and shall be binding on the Developer, its successors and assigns, and upon
the grantees of the Developer’s rights in said Subdivision, including mortgagees.
4. This Agreement, and all Exhibits hereto, shall constitute a covenant and run with the land and
shall be binding upon the Developer, its successors and assigns. Covenants herein may be extended
by an interested party, the owner of any lot within the Subdivision or by the City of Ames, for an
additional period of twenty-one years by filing a verified claim, in the manner provided by the
Code of Iowa.
5. This Agreement shall be deemed to be a contract under the laws of the State of Iowa and for all
purposes shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Iowa.
6. The parties acknowledge and agree that this Agreement is being executed without review or
approval of specific engineered construction plans or site development plans for development of
the Site. The parties acknowledge and agree that it is not possible to anticipate all the infrastructure
requirements the Developer may be required to complete to properly develop the site. Therefore,
the parties agree that all work done by or on behalf of the Developer with respect to, but not limited
to, public streets, sidewalks, bike paths, building design, construction and utilities, both on-site
and off-site, shall be made in compliance with the Iowa Code, SUDAS and all other federal, state
and local laws and policies of general application, including but not limited to subdivision and
zoning codes, whether or not such requirements are specifically stated in this Agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have caused this Agreement to be signed by their
authorized representatives as of the date first above written.
DAYTON AVENUE DEVELOPMENT LLC
Dated October ______, 2022.
STATE OF IOWA, COUNTY OF STORY, SS.:
This instrument was acknowledged before me on October _____, 2022, by Charles E. Winkleblack, as
Manager of Dayton Avenue Development LLC.
NOTARY PUBLIC
Passed and approved on ________________________, 2022, by Resolution No. 22-________ adopted by
the City Council of the City of Ames, Iowa.
CITY OF AMES, IOWA
John A. Haila,
Renee Hall,
STATE OF IOWA, COUNTY OF STORY, SS.:
This instrument was acknowledged before me on _______________________, 2022, by John A. Haila
and Renee Hall, as Mayor and City Clerk, respectively, of the City of Ames, Iowa.
NOTARY PUBLIC
Exhibit A- Preliminary Plat
Exhibit B
Design Guidelines for North Dayton Industrial Park Subdivision
1. All buildings and improvements shall be of new construction only. No pre-existing buildings
shall be permitted to be moved onto a lot, nor shall any trailer, mobile home, or other similar
structure be placed upon any lot, excepting those used on a temporary basis by a contractor during
construction.
2. Design Requirements
A. All buildings must have exterior surfaces of steel, architectural metal panels, brick,
wood trim, split face block, stone, glass, exterior insulation, and finish systems (EIFS) or precast
wall panels or a combination thereof. Corrugated steel or similar ridged metal panel finishes are
prohibited on the front façade for more than 50% of the facade.
B. Buildings constructed in the subdivision shall be oriented with the front entrance facing
the street the building is addressed upon. Each building shall have an identifiable front entrance
area distinguished in materials and relief from the primary building materials of the front façade.
A front entrance area will typically include at least 30 linear feet that includes features such as
doors, windows, materials, parapets, overhangs, etc.
3. Not less than 15% of the total area of a lot shall be used for landscaping and lawn purposes or
other decorative open space.
4. No outdoor storage, as defined in Chapter 29 of the Ames Municipal Code, may be placed within
a front yard for all street frontages; however, for corner lots with two street frontages the restriction
only applies to one front yard, and for lots with three or more street frontages the restriction only
applies to two fronts.
5. The principal uses of Outdoor Storage, other storage uses, including private or public storage
of furniture, files, raw materials, or other unused or seldom used goods and items for an
indefinite period of time, Mini-Storage and Salvage shall be prohibited in the North Dayton
Industrial Park Subdivision.
6. Equipment. Trash cans, garbage cans and storage piles, where permitted. Shall be kept screened
from view by adequate planting or fencing to conceal then from the view of other lots in the
Subdivision. All rubbish, trash, or garbage shall be regularly removed and shall not be permitted
to accumulate.
7. All drive access points shall be approved by the City of Ames Planning and Housing and Public
Works Departments. The City of Ames may limit or restrict access points on some lots to line up
driveways and corresponding driveways or streets on the opposite side of the street frontage. No
access to Dayton Avenue is permitted.
Exhibit C
Estimated Cost Breakdown of Eligible Items
*Only Internal Subdivision Public Items in Yellow Shade Included in TIF Rebate
*All Dayton Widening Items Included in TIF Rebate
Additonal Items Added Late:
6” Water Line for Fire Protection $26,280.00
Sanitary Sewer Line Addition to North Property Line $36,418.00
Grand Total TIF Rebate $2,968,264.00
ITEM:___27____
Staff Report
REQUEST TO INTIATE AMENDMENT TO THE WHOLESALE TRADE AND DISPLAY
STORE PARKING RATE
October 11, 2022
BACKGROUND:
FOX Strand, requested a Zoning text amendment to reduce the current parking
requirement for a Furniture Store from 1 space per 500 square feet of floor area to 1
space per 625 square feet. This request was referred to the Staff by the City Council at
their September 13, 2022 meeting.
FOX Strand is seeking this change on behalf of a regional furniture store looking to locate
in Ames. The client they are working with believes the current parking rate results in an
unnecessarily large parking lot for the stores needs and limits sites that would allow for
them to locate a furniture store in Ames.
Under the City’s current ordinance, Display Stores include uses such as furniture,
appliances, and carpet stores. Fox Strand references Wholesale Trade as the parking
category of interest, which has the same rate as a Display Store. Wholesale Trade
includes uses such as building and electrical supplies, plumbing, ag and farm equipment,
home furnishings, and store fixtures. Staff believes that the Display Store is the most
applicable category, but both categories could be adjusted together.
OPTIONS:
The Fox Strand request is intended to benefit furniture stores with a reduced parking
requirement. A text amendment changing Display Stores described above would be the
most relevant change. If City Council is interested in pursuing the change, staff has
identified two options in response to the request.
Option 1: Reduce the rate as requested to 1 parking space per 625 square feet.
This option will reduce the required parking rate for Display Stores by 20%. Display stores
can have large areas with lower customer counts compared to typical personal goods
retailers such as Target or J.C. Penney. The current rate of 1 space per 500 squa re feet
reflects this expectation compared to general retail at 1 space per 300 square feet.
Reducing the Display Store rate by 20% would likely be at the lower end of typical ranges
for such a use, but if a store desires more parking it would be allowed to construct
additional parking.
Our current rate is typical for a furniture store, but other cities have lower rates of parking.
Examples include Cedar Falls at 1 space per 750 square feet, Des Moines at 1 space per
600 square feet, Urbandale with Wholesale Trade and Showrooms at 1 space per 1,000
square feet + 1 per 200 square feet for office areas.
Option 2: Create a new generally applicable reduction for uses exceeding 100 or
more parking spaces.
From time to time the City considers parking reduction requests for specific uses. An
alternative to considering the merits of individual requests would be to allow for uses with
large amounts of required parking to reduce the total number required. The premise with
lowering it broadly for large uses would be that there is a base level of demand for all
uses, but the total demand is not linear to the increase in square footage, meaning as it
gets larger it may not need as much parking per square foot.
Under this option staff proposes creating a possible reduction for all commercial
or industrial uses that exceed 100 parking stalls. The reduction would allow for the
Planning Director to waive up to 20% of the total required parking stalls, but not
less than 100 spaces.
For example, if a proposal created more than 100 parking stalls, the Planning Director
could waive up to 20% of all the required stalls, provided the reduction did not cause the
total parking to go below 100 stalls. This option would only be able to be utilized on large
proposals that generated high amounts of parking. No specific parking standard for other
uses would be changed with this option, but it would equal the same reduction requested
for the Furniture Store.
Examples of uses and required parking rates:
Fareway- Grocery Store- 24,247 sq ft @ 1/300=81 spaces- No Reduction
Super Walmart North- 156,833 sq ft @ 1/300=523 spaces- Reduction Option Allowed
Workiva- Office- 118,503 sq ft. @ 1/300=395 spaces- Reduction Option Allowed
Amcor Warehouse- 575,276 sq ft. @ 1/5000=115 spaces-Reduction Option Allowed
STAFF COMMENTS:
A cursory review of comparable parking rates indicates that cities have a range of
requirements, with some cities having very similar standards to ours, and others having
less parking required. Both options presented above maintain standards that keep Ames
within a range of comparable communities. Staff supports reducing the parking rate
for Display Stores and for Wholesale Trade uses as the likelihood of parking
problems overburdening other sites for these types of uses is highly unlikely and
also mitigates the amount of impervious surfaces that are required.
Staff is supportive of reducing the parking rate with either Option 1 (Applicant application
to Reduce Parking for a Furniture Store) or with Option 2 (20% Waiver Option for 100
parking space site) as a city-initiated text amendment.
If Council has concerns or interests that other potential developers may also desire
to reduce parking rates for a larger project it would be prudent to choose Option 2
as a more comprehensive approach compared to Option 1.
Attachment A- Letter To City Council
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ITEM: 28
STAFF REPORT
HOME OCCUPATION ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT
October 11, 2022
BACKGROUND:
On June 14th, 2022, Governor Reynolds signed into law House File 2431, which pertains
“to the regulation of home-based businesses”. The Ames Zoning Ordinance refers to
home-based businesses as home occupations (they are otherwise the same). The new
regulations preempt certain local laws and limit how a city can regulate home-based
businesses, principally regarding “no-impact” businesses. In order to continue to apply
standards to home based occupations, the City must modify its zoning standards to
comply with state law.
Home occupations are considered a secondary or accessory function to the primary use
of a home as a residence. An occupant of the residence must be employed at the
business. Home occupations currently are allowed in all residential zoning districts
subject to permitting requirements and performance standards of Article 13 of the Zoning
Ordinance. Generally, a large range of uses are permissible with review by the Zoning
Board of Adjustment.
The current Ames code (Attachment A) contains lists of specific uses, such as catering,
day care, engineering office, beauty parlors. The code categorizes allowable uses into
those that are Permitted, which are reviewed through an administrative process ($25 fee),
and those that are Special, which are reviewed through a public process by the Zoning
Board of Adjustment ($75 fee). The code also contains a prohibited uses section, such
as auto repair, firearm sales, kennels, restaurants, dance studios . The City does apply
certain standards to home occupations regarding limitations of up to 10 vehicle trips a
day, class sizes, storage, equipment usage, etc.
The new state law (Attachment B) does not allow cities to regulate home-based
businesses by use (with some exceptions), but does allow them to regulate by
intensity of use and potential impacts to a neighborhood, including parking on the
street and any noise, odor, or pollution emanating from the property in question.
The statute, in part, reads:
A city shall not prohibit a no-impact home-based business or otherwise require a
person to apply, register, or obtain any permit, license, variance, or other type of
prior approval from the city to operate a no-impact home-based business.
The state law defines a “no-impact home-based business” as one that, essentially, is
operated within a building or in a yard out of view from surroundings and does not create
any negative impacts on the surrounding neighborhood or surrounding properties. If a
business is classified as no-impact home-based business, the City of Ames may
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not require any permit or other review: it is allowed by right. If the City receives
complaints about the no-impact home-based business, staff can investigate to see
if the use is complying with the state criteria pertaining to impacts and intensity of
use. The City cannot require a permit for such a use before it begins to operate.
Under the new law, cities may still require permits for home occupations that are
not no-impact home-based businesses (in other words, those home occupations that
may be impactful). Potentially impactful home businesses would be similar to our current
method of categorizing some uses as Specially Permitted Home Occupations.
The new law appears to significantly change the regulation of home occupations.
However, its intent is similar to our current Permitted and Specially Permitted approach
for home occupations. After consultation with the City Attorney and the Inspections
Division, staff believes that adjustments to our approach can made to continue to
apply regulations to home occupations. New standards would have to address the
state law requirements and provide performance thresholds to assess impacts to
a neighborhood. The City can be more permissive than the state law, but not more
restrictive.
Potential Criteria:
The following is a list of potential standards that could apply to home occupations based
upon either our current standards or the new state law language. New home occupation
standards would define the amount of property and buildings to be used, location of
activity, amount and size of signage, employee and customer counts related to building
occupancy, off-site employees, traffic and parking, and day care regulations. The
example criteria below would allow for all uses that have been categorized as “permitted”
previously by the City and uses “specially permitted” by the ZBA.
Proposed criteria:
1. Area to Be Used. (New standard to address state law)
a. Less than 50% of all the habitable space of all buildings (considered
cumulatively) on the property may be used for the home occupation.
Habitable space does not include unhabitable attics, unhabitable
basements, garden sheds, chicken coops, etc. It does include attached and
detached garages.
b. Less than 50% of the total yard area may be used.
2. Nuisance. (This is the current language.)
The activity shall be conducted in a manner that will not alter the normal residential
character of the premises, or in any way cause a nuisance to adjoining residents,
nor shall there be any structural alteration to accommodate the occupation. There
should be no emission of smoke, dust, odor, fumes, glare, noises, vibration,
electrical or electronic disturbances detectable at the lot line that would exceed
that normally produced by a single residence. Special noise exceptions will be
allowed for day care homes due to the nature of the clients using the facility.
3
3. Location. (New standard to address state law)
Any home occupation activity that takes place in the yard must be screened behind
a solid, 6-foot-high fence. (Practically, this will mean that all activity will take place
in a rear or side yard, as this is the only location where a fence can be as tall as 6
feet.)
4. Signage. (This is the current language.)
Any sign utilized at the home occupation shall be limited to one flush -mounted sign
on the main residential structure, which shall not exceed one (1) square foot in
area. Such sign shall not be lighted and nonreflecting materials shall be used. The
legend shall show only the name of the occupant and the type of occupation. Color
shall be consistent with the residential character.
5. Occupancy Maximums. (New issue identified within the state law for No
Impact businesses, previously we addressed as employees and class size
limitations)
The occupancy of a dwelling unit for purposes of home occupations maximum
levels of employee and customer counts is the Zoning Ordinance definition of a
family:
Section 29.201 (72) Family means a person living alone, or any of the following
groups living together as a single nonprofit housekeeping unit and sharing
common living, sleeping, cooking, and eating facilities: (a) Any number of people
related by blood, marriage, adoption, guardianship or other duly authorized
custodial relationship; (b) Three unrelated people (i.e. adults);
6. Traffic. (This is the current language.)
The activity shall not generate significantly greater traffic volumes than would
normally be expected in a residential area. Not more than 10 vehicular v isits per
day shall be allowed. An exception to the number of visits allowed per day may be
permitted for family day care homes and adult day care due to the number of
children or adults allowed on-site and the need for parent or caregiver contact
during the day. The delivery and pick up of materials or commodities to the
premises by commercial vehicles shall not interfere with the delivery of other
services to the area.
7. Parking. (This is the current language.)
a. Only one delivery vehicle associated with the activity may be parked on the
street near the premises for not more than 4 consecutive hours.
b. One additional on-site parking space is required above the normal parking
requirement where two (2) or more clients are likely to visit the premises
concurrently.
c. No more than four (4) client vehicles during any given hour shall be allowed
on the site. This requirement shall not be construed to prohibit occasional
exceptions for such events as meetings, conferences, demonstrations, or
similar events that are in no way a nuisance to adjoining residences.
8. Class Size. (This is the current language, to be adjusted with final changes to
comply with No Impact criteria )
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If the home occupation is the type in which classes are held or instructions given,
there shall be no more than four (4) students or pupils at any given time. The Board
may approve up to six (6) students if it finds that the additional students will not
generate additional traffic. Day-care homes may have up to six (6) children or
adults at a time. Additional children or adults will require a Special Home
Occupation Permit for a day-care center.
9. Family Day Care in Multifamily Dwellings. (This is the current language.)
In addition to the criteria of Section 29.1304(3), Family Day Care in multifamily
dwellings shall comply with the following additional criteria.
a. A defined outdoor play area is available on -site that provides not less than
75 square feet per child based on the maximum number of children that will
be attending the day care at any given time, or a public or neighborhood
park is located within 300 feet of the site. This provision only applies to day
care provided to children five years of age and older.
b. An area designated and posted for guest parking is provided on the s ite; or
at least one (1) parking space must be posted and reserved for use of the
day care operation only. Parking spaces otherwise required to meet
minimum parking requirements for the residents may not count toward the
required guest or reserved parking spaces.
c. The day care operator must provide evidence that the owner of the
multifamily building has no objections to the day care operation, and that he
or she agrees to comply with the required guest or reserved parking
provisions.
OPTIONS:
The new law focuses on potential negative impacts and not on specific uses , with
limited exceptions. After careful review of the new state code, staff believes that
most of our current zoning criteria in Section 29.1304(3) & (4) may be carried over
into a rewritten ordinance as shown in the example criteria. The subsections
pertaining to specific uses, however, must be removed with any changes. The City
may still be able to establish a prohibited use list, this would be reviewed further
with the City Attorney’s office.
Staff believes there are two basic options to revise the standards. Option 1 would change
the whole system to make all uses that meet the criteria allowed “by right” and no use
would be allowable that exceeded the criteria. A second option is to follow a system
similar to the current where a threshold of performance is set for “no impact” business
that do not need a permit and that all other potentially impactful businesses would require
ZBA approval.
Option 1: Allow Home Occupations by Right Subject to Performance Criteria
City Council could establish criteria by which all home occupations must comply.
No permits would be required, but enforcement of complaints could occur based
upon the established criteria. It would be important to only adopt criteria that would
reasonably allow for use of home occupations without potentially significantly impacting
5
a neighborhood. The example criteria in this report are very similar to the current
maximum intensity of uses that have been seen to be reasonable allowances in the past.
If City Council selects this option, staff would work to draft an ordinance based upon the
example draft criteria in this report and proceed to the Planning and Zoning Commission
for their recommendation on a zoning text amendment. City Council could also give
direction about specific criterion to be changed before proceeding to prepare a draft
ordinance.
Option 2: Two Category System for 1) No Impact and 2) Impactful Home Business
This option would set criteria for what state law requires to be permitted for the No
Impact category. Businesses in the No Impact category would have no review by
City staff or permit required. Should a business owner desire to exceed the No
Impact criteria, then the business owner can pursue a permit and approval from
ZBA as an Impactful Home Business.
If Council selects the same draft criteria included in this report to distinguish No Impact
from Impactful, it would effectively be expanding opportunities for home occupations
beyond current allowances for uses approved by the ZBA. If the City Council does not
intend to expand the allowances it would need to alter the draft criteria to trigger ZBA
approval at a lower threshold. If City Council is interested in this option and it wanted to
have lower thresholds it would need to provide direction to staff in order to proceed with
drafting an ordinance.
Once City Council provides direction, staff would work to draft an ordinance based upon
the example criteria in this report and proceeding to the Planning and Zoning Commission
for their recommendation on a zoning text amendment.
STAFF COMMENTS:
The current regulations governing home occupations need to be rewritten to comply with
state law. The City may no longer regulate home occupations by use, but may still control
factors, such as odors or noises, that may emanate from such a use.
Staff finds that Option 1 would be the easiest to administer as it does not involve
permitting. This option would result in similar types of home occupations as have
been approved in the City, however there would be no permit in advance. This option
would remove notice requirements that are part of permitting now for specially permitted
home occupations. However, most home occupation permits based upon our current
criteria are non-controversial. On a rare occupation there have been complaints about
people not complying with the performance standards and there have been enforcement
actions.
Option 2 would have one category of by right uses as No Impact, but still require a permit
and a review process for those home occupations that have may be impactful to their
respective neighborhoods. Administration of this option would be very similar to the
current processes of the City with the ZBA approvals. If City Council were to adopt the
6
draft criteria in this report it would actually provide additional home occupation
opportunities by ZBA approval of uses that exceed the stated thresholds.
Staff supports making changes to clarify for the customers what are the City’s
expectations. Staff believes Option 1 would likely be satisfactory for regulating
such uses based upon our experience of permitting home occupations with or
without ZBA review over the past ten years.
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Attachment A
Zoning Code Requirements for Home Occupations
Sec. 29.1304. HOME OCCUPATIONS.
This Section is intended to protect residential areas from potential adverse impacts of activities
defined as home occupations; to permit residents of the community a broad choice in the use of
their homes as a place of livelihood in the production or supplementing of personal/family income;
to restrict incompatible uses; to establish criteria and develop standards for the use of residential
structures or dwelling units for home occupations. It is not the intent to eliminate certain businesses
and occupations that may be compatible with residential areas.
(1) Permitted, Special and Prohibited Home Occupations.
(a) The following are Permitted Home Occupations:
(i) Home sewing or tailoring;
(ii) Studios for painting, sculpturing, ceramics or other similar arts;
(iii) Writing or editing;
(iv) Telephone answering, scheduling of appointments, and other office activities
where there are limited visits to the home;
(v) Production of crafts such as handiwork, model-making, weaving, lapidary, and
cabinet-making for the purpose of selling the product;
(vi) Tutoring and giving lessons, limited to 4 students at any one time;
(vii) Catering, home-cooking and preserving for the purpose of selling the product;
(viii) Computer programming, services provided over the Internet and other similar
activities;
(ix) Mail order businesses where products are shipped directly from the supplier to the
customer; and
(x) Offices for architects and engineers.
(xi) Home child care providers designated by the state department of human services
as either Non-Registered Home, Child Development Home “A”, or Child
Development Home “C” (1 Provider).
(b) The following are Special Home Occupations:
(i) Home child care providers designated by the state department of human services
as either Child Development Home “B”, or Child Development Home “C” (2
Providers). Child care providers designated by the state department of human
services as a “Licensed Center’ are not eligible for approval as a Home
Occupation.
(ii) Home adult day care for the care of no more than six adults (not permanent
residents).
(iii) Physicians and other licensed medical practitioners;
(iv) Barbershops and beauty parlors;
(v) Small repair shops (including small appliances, mower repair, blade sharpening
and similar uses);
(vi) Real estate and related services;
(vii) Insurance agents;
(viii) Home professional offices, lawyers and members of similar professions, and
(ix) All other activities not included on either the permitted or prohibited list.
(c) The following are prohibited Home Occupations;
(i) Animal hospitals;
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(ii) Dancing studios or exercise studios;
(iii) Private clubs;
(iv) Restaurants;
(v) Stables and kennels;
(vi) Repair or painting of motor vehicles, including motorcycles; and
(vii) Firearm sales
(d) Rummage/garage sales are not included in the listing of permitted, special or prohibited
home occupations and are not defined as home occupations, provided no more than 3
sales per year are conducted. In addition, sale of garden produce is not defined as a home
occupation provided no more than 3 sales per year are conducted.
(2) Permit and Review Procedures.
(a) Permitted Home Occupations. Applicants must submit an application to the Planning
and Housing Department. The application will be reviewed by the staff, and the
applicant will be notified of the decision of the Department. If the applicant is aggrieved,
the decision may be appealed to the Zoning Board of Adjustment within 30 days.
(b) Special Home Occupations. Applicants must submit a Special Home Occupation Permit
to the City Clerk for consideration by the Zoning Board of Adjustment. Applications
will then be reviewed by the Planning and Housing Department. A staff report will be
prepared and sent to the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
The Board may grant the Special Home Occupation Permit if it reasonably concludes
from the evidence that the home occupation proposed will meet the criteria set out in
Section 29.1304(3). The Board may, if warranted by the evidence, impose such
additional conditions as may be deemed necessary to protect the legitimate use and
enjoyment of neighboring properties. Any failure to obtain such Special Home
Occupation Permit when required, or to comply with the criteria and conditions set out
when issued, shall constitute a violation of this Section and shall be grounds for
revocation of the Special Home Occupation Permit after notice and hearing by the
Zoning Board of Adjustment.
(c) Prohibited Home Occupations. No person will be allowed to operate prohibited home
occupations.
(3) Criteria. All home occupations must meet the following criteria:
(a) Area to Be Used.
(i) The activity shall be conducted in a manner that will not alter the normal residential
character of the premises, or in any way cause a nuisance to adjoining residents,
nor shall there be any structural alteration to accommodate the occupation. There
should be no emission of smoke, dust, odor, fumes, glare, noises, vibration,
electrical or electronic disturbances detectable at the lot line that would exceed that
normally produced by a single residence. Special noise exceptions will be allowed
for day care homes due to the nature of the clients using the facility.
(ii) The activity shall be located within the principal building or within an accessory
structure. It shall occupy no more than 25% of the total floor area of the residence
and shall not exceed 400 square feet of an accessory building. Exception: For
family day care homes, the entire dwelling unit may be used to serve the various
needs of day care (e.g., kitchen, bathroom, napping rooms, play areas, etc.).
However, the day care can provide care to no more than one person per 35 square
feet of the total dwelling unit, exclusive of baths, hallways, closets, kitchens, and
dining areas. The dining area may be included in the square footage calculation if
used by day care participants for activities other than meals.
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(b) Signs. Any sign utilized at the home occupation shall be limited to one flush-mounted
sign on the main residential structure, which shall not exceed one square foot in area.
Such sign shall not be lighted and nonreflecting materials shall be used. The legend shall
show only the name of the occupant and the type of occupation. Color shall be consistent
with the residential character.
(c) Equipment. There shall be no mechanical equipment used except as customary for
domestic household purposes. Any merchandise or stock in trade sold, repaired or
displayed shall be stored entirely within the residential structure or in any accessory
building. No storage is to be visible from lot lines.
(d) Employment. The activity shall employ only members of the household residing in the
dwelling unless approval for the employment of up to two (2) non-family members is
granted by the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
(e) Traffic. The activity shall not generate significantly greater traffic volumes than would
normally be expected in a residential area. Not more than 10 vehicular visits per day
shall be allowed. An exception to the number of visits allowed per day may be permitted
for family day care homes and adult day care due to the number of children or adults
allowed on-site and the need for parent or caregiver contact during the day. The delivery
and pick up of materials or commodities to the premises by commercial vehicles shall
not interfere with the delivery of other services to the area.
(f) Parking Criteria.
(i) Only one delivery vehicle associated with the activity may be parked on the street
near the premises for not more than 4 consecutive hours.
(ii) One additional on-site parking space is required above the normal parking
requirement where 2 or more clients are likely to visit the premises concurrently.
(iii) No more than 4 client vehicles during any given hour shall be allowed on the site.
This requirement shall not be construed to prohibit occasional exceptions for such
events as meetings, conferences, demonstrations, or similar events that are in no
way a nuisance to adjoining residences.
(g) Class Size. If the home occupation is the type in which classes are held or instructions
given, there shall be no more than 4 students or pupils at any given time. The Board
may approve up to 6 students if it finds that the additional students will not generate
additional traffic. Day-care homes may have up to 6 children or adults at a time.
Additional children or adults will require a Special Home Occupation Permit for a day-
care center.
(h) Number of Home Occupations. The total number of home occupations within a dwelling
unit is not limited, except that the cumulative impact of all home occupations conducted
within the dwelling unit shall not be greater than the impact of one home occupation.
This will be determined by using the home occupation criteria.
(4) Family Day Care in Multifamily Dwellings. In addition to the criteria of Section 29.1304(3),
Family Day Care in multifamily dwellings shall comply with the following additional criteria.
(a) A defined outdoor play area is available on -site that provides not less than 75 square
feet per child based on the maximum number of children that will be attending the day
care at any given time, or a public or neighborhood park is located within 300 feet of
the site. This provision only applies to day care provided to children five years of age
and older.
(b) An area designated and posted for guest parking is provided on the site; or at least one
parking space must be posted and reserved for use of the day care operation only.
Parking spaces otherwise required to meet minimum parking requirements for the
residents may not count toward the required guest or reserved parking spaces.
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(c) The day care operator must provide evidence that the owner of the multifamily building
has no objections to the day care operation, and that he or she agrees to comply with the
required guest or reserved parking provisions.
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Attachment B
Newly Adopted State Code Regulating Home-Based Businesses
Sec. 414.33
1. For the purposes of this section:
a. “Goods” means any merchandise, equipment, products, supplies, or materials.
b. “Home-based business” means any business for the manufacture, provision, or sale of
goods or services that is owned and operated by the owner or tenant of the residential
property on which the business operates.
c. “No-impact home-based business” means a home-based business for which all of the
following apply:
(1) The total number of on-site employees and clients does not exceed the city
occupancy limit for the residential property.
(2) The business activities are characterized by all of the following:
(a) The activities are limited to the sale of lawful goods and services.
(b) The activities do not generate on-street parking or a substantial increase in
traffic through the residential area.
(c) The activities occur inside the residential dwelling or in the yard of the
residential property.
(d) The activities are not visible from an adjacent property or street.
2. The use of a residential property for a home-based business is a permitted use. However, this
subsection does not supersede any of the following:
a. A deed restriction, covenant, or agreement restricting the use of land.
b. A master deed, bylaw, or other document applicable to a common interest ownership
community.
3. A city shall not prohibit a no-impact home-based business or otherwise require a person to
apply, register, or obtain any permit, license, variance, or other type of prior approval from
the city to operate a no-impact home-based business.
4. A city may establish reasonable regulations on a home-based business if the regulations are
narrowly tailored for any of the following purposes:
a. The protection of the public health and safety, including rules and regulations related to
fire or building codes, health and sanitation, transportation or traffic control, solid or
hazardous waste, pollution, or noise control.
b. Ensuring that the business is all of the following:
(1) Compatible with residential use of the property and surrounding residential use.
(2) Secondary to the use of the property as a residence.
(3) Complying with state and federal laws and paying applicable taxes.
c. Limiting or prohibiting the operation of a home-based business for the purposes of
selling alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs, operating or maintaining a structured sober
living home, creating or selling pornography, providing nude or topless dancing, or
operating any other adult-oriented business.
5. A city shall not require as a condition of operating a home-based business that the property
be rezoned for commercial use or that the business owner install or equip fire sprinklers in a
single-family detached residential dwelling or any residential dwelling with not more than
two dwelling units.
6. In any proceeding alleging that a city regulation does not comply with this section, the city
that enacted the regulation must establish by clear and convincing evidence that the regulation
complies with this section.
1
ITEM # __29___
DATE: 10-11-22
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: POWER PLANT RENOVATIONS REPORT OF BIDS
BACKGROUND:
On August 23, 2022, City Council approved preliminary plans and specifications for Power
Plant Renovations. This project is to improve the women’s restroom, provide for gender -
inclusive restroom/shower facilities, and eliminate security access concerns at the Power
Plant. The restroom and shower facilities are not adequate to support a diverse workforce,
nor does the plant’s access system provide the necessary security needed in today’s
environment.
Bid documents were issued to eleven firms and two plan rooms. The bid was advertised on
the Current Bid Opportunities section of the Purchasing webpage and a Legal Notice was
published on the websites of a contractor plan room service with statewide circulation .
On September 28, 2022, one bid was received from Edge Commercial, LLC of Grimes, IA,
in the amount of $729,230. The architect’s estimate was $500,000.
The approved FY 2022/23 Power Plant operating budget includes $400,000 for this project,
along with $155,000 reallocated from the Turbine Deck Improvement project. There is
significant difference between the bid and the project estimate . Given this difference
compared to the estimate, and the shortfall of funds that would be needed to award
the bid, staff is requesting that the City Council reject the bid for this project. Staff
would then work with the design firm to determine whether it can be modified to lower
the cost.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Reject the bid for the Power Plant Renovations project.
2. Award a contract to the apparent low bid and direct staff to identify additional funds.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
These renovations at the Power Plant will create bathroom facilities to support a much more
diverse and inclusive workforce and will improve the security of the plant. However, because
the only bid came in significantly higher the architect’s estimate, staff would like the
opportunity to review the project and determine if changes can be made to lower the cost.
Staff intends to work with the architect to rebid the project at a future date.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No.1, as described above.