HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - April 13, 2021, Regular Meeting of the Ames City CouncilAGENDA
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
COUNCIL CHAMBERS - CITY HALL*
APRIL 13, 2021
*DUE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, THIS CITY COUNCIL MEETING WILL BE
CONDUCTED AS AN ELECTRONIC MEETING. IF YOU WISH TO PROVIDE INPUT ON
ANY ITEM, YOU MAY DO SO AS A VIDEO PARTICIPANT BY GOING TO:
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or watch the meeting live on Mediacom Channel 12
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC: The Mayor and City Council welcome comments from the public during
discussion. If you wish to speak, please see the instructions listed above. 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 “Fair Housing Month,” April 2021
PRESENTATION:
2. Presentation of “The Home for Everyone” Awards by Ames Human Relations Commission
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.
3. Motion approving payment of claims
4. Motion approving Minutes of the Regular Meeting held March 23, 2021, and the Special Meetings
held March 17, March 30, and April 2, 2021
5. Motion approving Report of Change Orders for period March 16 - March 31, 2021
6. Motion certifying Civil Service candidates
7. Motion approving New 12-Month Class B Beer (BB) (Includes Wine Coolers) & Sunday Sales -
Mongolian Buffet 1620 S Kellogg Ave #103
8. Motion approving renewal of the following Beer Permits, Wine Permits, and Liquor Licenses:
a. Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service & Sunday Sales - Brick City Grill 2704 Stange
Road
b. Class C Liquor License with Catering Privilege, Outdoor Service & Sunday Sales - Cyclone
Experience Network 1705 Center Dr, Hilton Coliseum
c. Class C Liquor License with Catering Privilege, Outdoor Service & Sunday Sales - Perfect
Games Inc 1320 Dickinson Ave
d. Class C Liquor License with Catering Privilege, Outdoor Service & Sunday Sales - Provisions
Lot F 2400 North Loop Dr
e. Class C Beer Permit with Class B Wine Permit & Sunday Sales - Hy-Vee Gas #5018 636
Lincoln Way
9. Request from Campustown Action Association for Summerfest in Campustown on Saturday, June
5th:
a. Motion approving blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit
b. Motion approving blanket Vending License
c. Resolution approving waiver of Vending License fee
d. Resolution approving closure of the 200 block of Welch Avenue and Chamberlain Street
between Welch Avenue and the Chamberlain Lot Y exit, Welch Lot T, and Chamberlain Lot Y
between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.
e. Resolution approving closure of parking spaces in the 200 block of Welch Avenue, on
Chamberlain Street between Welch Avenue and the Chamberlain Lot Y exit, Welch Lot T, and
Chamberlain Lot Y between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.
f. Resolution approving waiver of parking meter fees
g. Resolution authorizing access to City-owned electrical outlets and approving a waiver of fees
for the electricity used
10. Resolution approving Amendment No. 2 to Story Theater Company’s Fall 2020 Special Project
Grant to allow the substitution of Young Sherlock for the original planned production
11. Resolution authorizing Ames Community Arts Council to receive reimbursement for construction
expenses related to the mobile music stage under the existing FY 2020/21 COTA Spring Special
Project Grant and FY 2020/21 COTA Annual Grant
12. Resolution approving Hold Harmless Agreement between Iowa State Fire Marshal Fire Service
Training Bureau and the City of Ames for Summer Fire School
13. Field Technical Services for Unit #8 Turbine-Generator:
a. Resolution waiving City’s Purchasing Policies regarding formal bidding procedures and allow
for single-source purchasing
b. Resolution awarding contract to provide Field Technical Services for the Unit 8 Turbine-
Generator Overhaul to General Electric Steam Services, Inc., of Midlothian, Virginia, in the
estimated amount of $242,800
14. Resolution approving Amendment No. 1 to Professional Services Agreement for Teagarden Area
Letter of Map Revision with WHKS & Co., of Ames, IA, in the amount of $9,000
15. Resolution approving preliminary plans and specifications for Auditorium HVAC Replacement;
setting May 12, 2021 as bid due date and May 25, 2021 as date of public hearing
16. Resolution approving renewal of contract for Professional Services for Power Plant Fire Risk
Mitigation with Burns & McDonnell of Chesterfield, Missouri, in an amount not to exceed $50,000
17. Resolution awarding contract to Maxim Trucking & Materials of Pella, Iowa, for FY 2021/22
Concrete and Asphalt Crushing for Public Works Department in the amount of $69,250
18. Resolution approving contract for FY 2021/22 Purchase of Rock Salt requirements for Public
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Works with Independent Salt Co., of Kanopolis, Kansas, in the amount of $76.08 per ton
19. Electric Distribution Line Clearance Program:
a. Resolution approving contract renewal with Wright Tree Services, of Des Moines, Iowa for
Electric Distribution Line Clearance Program, from July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022
b. Resolution approving Performance Bond in the amount of $347,378
20. Resolution approving contract renewal with ABM of Des Moines, Iowa, for FY 2021/22 Custodial
Services for the Ames Public Library in the amount of $91,857
21. Resolution approving renewal of contract with Pitts Lawn & Tree Service of Huxley, Iowa, for FY
2021/22 Tree Trimming & Removal Program for the Parks & Recreation Department in an amount
not-to-exceed $85,000
22. Resolution renewing contract for FY 2021/22 Hauling and Related Services for the Resource
Recovery Plant with Waste Management of Ames, IA, in the amount of $15.15 per ton
23. Resolution approving contract and bond for 2020/21 Collector Street Pavement Improvements (E.
20th Street)
24. Resolution approving contract and bond for 2020/21 CyRide Route Pavement Improvements (9th
Street)
25. Resolution approving contract and bond for City Access Control System
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.
PARKS & RECREATION:
26. Splash Pad:
a. Resolution approving Splash Pad location in Daley Park
b. Motion directing staff to draft a Parking Ordinance Change from parking on the west side to the
east side of Wilder Boulevard from Thackeray Drive to the northern boundary of the Daley
Greenbelt
PLANNING & HOUSING:
27. Staff Report regarding the request for an Ames Urban Fringe Plan Map Amendment pertaining to
the Verbio property
28. Resolution approving Consent to Deed Restriction on behalf of Mainstream Living for the property
located at 1417 Douglas Avenue
29. Staff Report regarding Chapter 23 (Subdivision) and Chapter 29 (Zoning) Text Amendments
30. Staff Report regarding Ames Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan Amendments
ADMINISTRATION:
31. Resolution authorizing staff to reimburse 660 Euro (approximately $777) in fees for three student
registrations to the International Conference on Computational Urban Planning and Urban
Management (CUPUM) from the funds budgeted for the Community and Regional Planning class
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project
FINANCE:
32. Resolution approving Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for Fiscal Year ended June 30,
2020
HEARINGS:
33. Hearing on sale of City-owned property at 1126 Grand Avenue to Habitat for Humanity of Central
Iowa:
a. Resolution approving Plat of Survey
b. Resolution approving sale
34. Hearing on approving Easement Agreement between the City and Iowa State University to allow
a pedestrian bridge to be located within and over top of the City’s right-of-way on University
Boulevard:
a. Resolution approving Easement Agreement
35. Hearing on Fire Station #1 HVAC Replacement:
a. Resolution approving plans and specifications and awarding contract to Mechanical Comfort,
Inc., of Ames, Iowa, in the amount of $114,434
36. Hearing on 2020/21 Asphalt Street Pavement Improvements & Water System Improvements
(McKinley Drive, Jensen Drive, Luther Drive):
a. Resolution approving plans and specifications and awarding contract to Manatt’s Inc., of Ames,
Iowa, in the amount of $1,799,294.43
37. Hearing on 2020/21 Concrete Pavement Improvements (8th Street from Northwestern to Duff):
a. Resolution approving plans and specifications and awarding contract to Manatt’s Inc., of Ames,
Iowa, in the amount of $1,256,246.21
ORDINANCES:
38. First passage of ordinance amending Section 22.32 of Municipal Code pertaining to Sidewalk
Cafes
39. First passage of ordinance naming the access road on South Riverside Drive “Aviation Way”
40. Second passage of ordinance to increase water rates by 6%, effective July 1, 2021
41. Second passage of ordinance adopting by reference the 2020 Edition of the National Electric Code
with two State of Iowa amendments and one local amendment (Third passage and adoption
requested)
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.
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MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE AMES AREA
METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE AND
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA MARCH 23, 2021
AMES AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION (AAMPO)
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE MEETING
Mayor Haila announced that it was impractical to hold an in-person meeting due to the COVID-19
pandemic. Therefore, this meeting was being held as an electronic meeting as allowed by Section
21.8 of the Iowa Code. The Mayor then provided how the public could participate in the meeting via
internet or by phone.
CALL TO ORDER: The Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (AAMPO)
Transportation Policy Committee meeting, which was being held electronically, was called to order
by Ames Mayor and voting member John Haila at 6:02 p.m. on the 23rd day of March, 2021. Other
voting members brought into the meeting 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; David Martin, City of Ames; Jacob Ludwig, Transit Board; Bill Zinnel, Boone County
Supervisor; and Jon Popp, Mayor of Gilbert. Story County Supervisors were not represented.
CONSENT AGENDA: Moved by Zinnel, seconded by Betcher, to approve the following items on
the AAMPO Consent Agenda.
1.Motion approving Annual Self-Certification for FY 2022
2.Motion approving updated freight targets
3.Motion approving transit safety targets
4.Motion approving updated transit asset management targets
5.RESOLUTION NO. 21-126 approving formal request to FHWA to update the Federal Aid
eligibility of roadway segments
6.Motion setting May 25, 2021, as date of public hearing regarding amendments to the FFY
2021-2024 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
Vote on Motion: 10-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
DRAFT FY 2022 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM (TPWP) AND
SETTING MAY 25, 2021, AS DATE OF PUBLIC HEARING: Transportation Planner Kyle
Thompson explained that every fiscal year, the Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization
(AAMPO) is federally required to develop a Transportation Planning Work Program (TPWP). The
Work Program is to outline all the AAMPO planning activities and efforts for the fiscal year, which
dictates what programs are eligible for reimbursement. Mr. Thompson stated that the TPWP is
separated into six different work activities, which were described in detail on pages 11-18 of the
Draft TPWP. He highlighted some of the major planning activities/products that will be done in FY
2022. The current proposed FY 2022 AAMPO budget (shown on Page 19 of the Draft TPWP) totals
$205,000 ($164,000 in Federal funds and $41,000 in local funds). There is $63,717 in unobligated
funds that could be programmed in future fiscal years. The Technical Committee met on March 4,
2021, and unanimously recommended approval. A public comment period will start on March 24,
2021, and run through April 30, 2021. A public input session will be held virtually via Microsoft
Teams on March 25, 2021. Mr. Thompson commented that the Draft TPWP is due to be reviewed
for feedback from Federal and State partners from April 1 through April 30, 2021. A final public
hearing will be held May 25 for final approval.
Moved by Ludwig, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to approve the Draft FY 2022 Transportation
Planning Work Program (TPWP) and set May 25, 2021, as the date of public hearing.
Vote on Motion: 10-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
POLICY COMMITTEE COMMENTS: No comments were made.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Beatty-Hansen to adjourn the Ames Area Metropolitan Planning
Organization Transportation Policy Committee meeting at 6:08 p.m.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor John Haila called the Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council, which
was being held electronically, to order at 6:10 p.m. with the following Council members
participating: Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen, Gloria Betcher, Amber Corrieri, Tim Gartin, Rachel Junck,
and David Martin. Ex officio Member Nicole Whitlock was also present.
Mayor Haila stated that it was impractical to hold an in-person Council meeting due to the Governor
of Iowa declaring a public health emergency because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, limits
have been placed on public gatherings, and this meeting was being held as an electronic meeting as
allowed by Section 21.8 of the Iowa Code. The Mayor then provided how the public could
participate in the meeting via internet or by phone.
10-YEAR WATER QUALITY MONITORING PLAN WITH PRAIRIE RIVERS OF IOWA:
Municipal Engineer Tracy Peterson mentioned that this was a unique opportunity for the City of
Ames to partner with other municipalities and stakeholders in the Story County area.
Dan Haug with Prairie Rivers of Iowa went over the presentation on the Story County Water
Monitoring and Interpretation Plan. He noted that a lot of people and paddlers use the creeks in
Ames, and they want to make sure it is safe for them to do so. Mr. Haug mentioned that the Purpose
Statement is “To collect and analyze water sampling data. To increase residents’ knowledge and
understandings and identify problems in our watersheds. To support and improve water quality.” The
Plan contains four pages of goals with 80 pages of supporting material. Mr. Haug briefly discussed
the six chapters of the Plan. The goals and strategies for 2021-2030 are to: 1) to increase awareness
of water quality in Indian Creek and South Skunk River, recognize progress, and engage
stakeholders, who can positively impact those watersheds, 2) to expand monitoring efforts to cover
more of the county, 3) to identify and promote actions that improve and sustain the water quality and
system resiliency of the lakes and rivers through which water travels, and 4) strengthen the working
relationships among current and future partners and implement the monitoring plan.
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Council Member Betcher asked if the name of of Squaw Creek will be changed throughout the Plan
to Ioway Creek before it is released to the public. Mr. Haug stated he would double check on that.
Mayor Haila inquired if the E-Coli that is in the water was due to the spread of animal by products
surface runoff from farm fields. Ms. Peterson mentioned it could be from a lot of sources. It has been
discussed on finding a way to determine the source of the E-Coli, but the State lab has been behind
due to COVID, this is something staff will continue to explore.
CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Gartin requested to pull Item No. 11: Resolution setting
date of public hearing for April 13, 2021, regarding sale of City-owned property at 1126 Grand
Avenue to Habitat for Humanity.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to approve the following items on the Consent
Agenda.
1.Motion approving payment of claims
2.Motion approving Minutes of March 9, 2021
3.Motion approving Report of Change Orders for period March 1 - March 15, 2021
4.Motion approving ownership change for Class C Liquor License with Sunday Sales -
Dangerous Curves, 111-5th Street
5.Motion approving renewal of the following Beer Permits, Wine Permits, and Liquor
Licenses:
a.Special Class C Liquor License with Sunday Sales - Mongolian Buffet 1620 S
Kellogg Ave #103 pending Dram Shop Insurance
b.Class C Liquor License with Sunday Sales - Dangerous Curves 111 5th St,
c.Class C Liquor License with Sunday Sales - Cinemark Movies 12 1317 Buckeye
Ave,
d.Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service & Sunday Sales - Cornbred BBQ 525
Main Street ste 106
e.Class B Liquor License with Sunday Sales - Radisson Ames 2609 University Blvd
6 RESOLUTION NO. 21-127 approving and adopting Supplement No. 2021-2 to Municipal
Code
7.RESOLUTION NO. 21-128 appointing Ed Gillett to serve on ASSET
8.RESOLUTION NO. 21-129 authorizing Public Art Commission to enter into agreements
with artists for 2021/22 Ames Annual Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition selections
9.RESOLUTION NO. 21-130 authorizing Public Art Commission to acquire sculptures for
2021 Neighborhood Sculpture Program in the amount of $13,500
10.RESOLUTION NO. 21-132 setting date of public hearing for April 13, 2021, regarding
granting easement for ISU Pedestrian Bridge over University Boulevard
11.RESOLUTION NO. 21-133 dedicating right-of-way from 2520 Airport Drive and 3300 S.
Riverside Drive to allow access for a public right-of-way and direct the City Attorney to draft
an Ordinance that names the access road “Aviation Way”
12.RESOLUTION NO. 21-134 approving ten-year Agreement among the City of Ames, Iowa
State University, and the Iowa State University Student Government for CyRide Transit
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Services beginning July 1, 2021, contingent upon approval by Iowa State University and the
Iowa Board of Regents
13.Human Service Agency Contracts:
a.RESOLUTION NO. 21-135 approving revisions to FY 2021/22 Contracts
b.RESOLUTION NO. 21-136 approving revision to FY 2021/22 HIRTA Contract to
clarify public purpose description
14.RESOLUTION NO. 21-137 awarding contract to NOVA Bus of Plattsburg, New York, for
one 60-foot CyRide Articulated Bus Purchase in an amount not to exceed $860,903
15.RESOLUTION NO. 21-138 approving Plat of Survey for 119 Washington Avenue
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motions/Resolutions declared carried/adopted unanimously, signed by the
Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
SETTING DATE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR APRIL 13, 2021, REGARDING SALE OF
CITY-OWNED PROPERTY AT 1126 GRAND AVENUE TO HABITAT FOR HUMANITY:
Council Member Gartin advised that he had pulled this item to allow him to abstain from voting
because of his conflict of interest.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-131 setting the date of
public hearing for April 13, 2021, regarding the sale of City-owned property at 1126 Grand Avenue
to Habitat for Humanity.
Roll Call: 5-0-1. Voting Aye: Beatty-Hansen, Betcher, Corrieri, Junck, Martin. Voting Nay: None.
Abstaining due to conflict of interest: Gartin.
Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these
Minutes.
PUBLIC FORUM: Mayor Haila opened Public Forum. No one requested to speak, so he closed
Public Forum.
DIRECTING STAFF ON SIDEWALK INFILL FOR 2019/20 CONCRETE PAVEMENT
IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (E. 3RD STREET, E. 2ND STREET, DES MOINES AVENUE,
AND CENTER AVENUE):Public Works Director John Joiner stated that this project is to redo
some concrete streets that are north of Lincoln Way and east of Duff Avenue.
Staff wanted to present its infill plan with the Council before coming back to the Council with the
plans and specifications.
Municipal Engineer Tracy Peterson mentioned that Abdelhafiz Ibrahim is one of the engineers that
has been working with the neighborhood, speaking with landowners, and analyzing the area for
sidewalk infill.
Public Works Engineer Abdelhafiz Ibrahim presented a map that gave an overview of the entire
project. It showed where existing sidewalks are, where new sidewalk infill would be placed, and
where no new sidewalk infill will be done. When the project was being designed, staff was trying
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to make sure there was connectivity of sidewalks on at least one side of the street. Mr. Ibrahim
provided further details on each area of the project. Due to challenging grades, property access needs,
and lack of available right-of-way, it was being recommended that sidewalk infill be implemented
on all streets of the project except the following:
1.Both sides of the street along Des Moines Avenue (E 2nd Street to E 3rd Street)
2.The east side of Des Moines Avenue (E Lincoln Way to E 2nd Street)
3.The south side of E 2nd (Des Moines Avenue to Center Avenue)
4.The west side of Center Avenue (East Lincoln way to E 2nd Street)
Council Member Martin inquired about the yellow curb in front of the Tip Top Lounge along Des
Moines Avenue, wanting to know if the street reconstruction would have the area be a curb cut
instead of a curb. Ms. Peterson mentioned that the curb was painted yellow to indicate that no one
should park along that side of the street; this way the parking spots by the building can be utilized.
Council Member Betcher asked about all the buildings that are right up to the street frontage. She
wanted to know if those sections are right-of-way or if it is public property. Mr. Ibrahim noted that
on Des Moines Avenue, the right-of-way goes up to the building.
Mayor Haila asked for comments from the public.
Merlin Pfannkuch, 1424 Kellogg Avenue, Ames, stated he had several questions and comments
about this project. He wanted to know if there were any residences in the area and how much
pedestrian traffic there is. Mr. Pfannkuch commented that to put sidewalks in this area so quickly
is not fiscally responsible. He noted that the infill of sidewalks in this area “was out of the blue” and
now the Council is trying to push it through quickly. It was asked why the Council doesn’t ask
someone from the Planning and Housing Department what the Complete Streets Plan says. He
mentioned that he sees nothing in the Complete Streets Plan that says there should be a sidewalk on
at least one side of the street. Mr. Pfannkuch referred to a previous note he had sent the Council that
sidewalk infill is something that should be discussed before any decisions are made. He questioned
if there would be more bids if the sidewalk infill was dropped from the project. He mentioned that
the project may be $100,000 for sidewalks and an overall $2 million for streets, but felt it would be
more effective to have projects bid without sidewalks. Mr. Pfannkuch stated he is disappointed by
how the Council handles sidewalks and doesn’t like the idea that the City is mandating sidewalks.
He didn’t believe there were enough pedestrians to justify adding sidewalks. He commented that
“money doesn’t grow on trees” and he would like to see the money spent on more useful projects.
Public comment was closed by the Mayor.
Mayor Haila asked Ms. Peterson or Mr. Ibrahim to answer Mr. Pfannkuch’s questions. The first
question was regarding if there were any residences in the area. Ms. Peterson stated the area is a
commercial district and there are not any residences. The second question was regarding the amount
of foot traffic in the area. Ms. Peterson explained that a pedestrian count has not been done so she
is unable to provide a count. She noted that she sees people walking on Duff and Lincoln Way, but
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not sure of their destination. The Mayor asked about Mr. Pfannkuch’s comment about receiving
more bids if sidewalks were not included. Ms. Peterson mentioned that the sidewalks are not the
driving force. The driving force is the material used for the construction/rehabilitation of the street.
It was then asked if Ms. Peterson knew what the sidewalk cost was for this project. She noted that
the sidewalks will cost roughly $100,000 of the multi-million-dollar project. The last question Mr.
Pfannkuch had mentioned was how the Complete Streets Plan was not being followed. Ms. Peterson
mentioned that staff has continuously looked for ways to provide connectivity throughout all
projects. Public Works Director John Joiner explained that the Complete Streets Plan directs staff,
as they are designing projects, to evaluate sidewalk connectivity. Staff starts out looking at
connectivity on both sides of the street, but if that is not practical, it encourages staff to get
connectivity through a corridor or a neighborhood.
Council Member Betcher pointed out that east of this area on 2nd Street, there is an apartment
complex that houses several low-to moderate -income families who are less likely to have cars than
some of the other apartment complexes in town.
Moved by Martin, seconded by Corrieri, to direct staff to incorporate sidewalk infill on this project
as proposed by City staff.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
PRELIMINARY PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR 2020/21 ASPHALT STREET
PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS (MCKINLEY DRIVE, JENSEN AVENUE, AND LUTHER
DRIVE), WHICH INCLUDES INFILLING THE SIDEWALK ON THE WEST SIDE OF
JENSEN AVENUE FROM 24TH STREET TO 25TH STREET; SETTING APRIL 7, 2021, AS
BID DUE DATE AND APRIL 13, 2021, AS DATE OF PUBLIC HEARING: Municipal
Engineer Tracy Peterson noted that this pavement project is for McKinley Drive (Hayes to
Northwestern Avenue), Jensen Avenue (24th Street to Luther Drive), and Luther Drive (Kellogg
Avenue to 28th Street).
Public Works Engineer Abdelhafiz Ibrahim noted that the only sidewalk infill needed for this project
is by the Ace Hardware store off 24th Street. Ms. Peterson commented that Mr. Ibrahim has had
conversations with Ace Hardware regarding the sidewalk infill. Staff had sent letters to all
residents/businesses and met with those that will be directly impacted or responded to the letter to
obtain input on staging, infill of sidewalk, construction timing, and special access needs. All
comments that were received were incorporated into the project design.
The Mayor opened public comment. It was closed when no one came forward.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-139 approving the
preliminary plans and specifications for the 2020/21 Asphalt Street Pavement Improvements
(McKinley Drive, Jensen Avenue, and Luther Drive), which includes infilling the sidewalk on the
west side of Jensen Avenue from 24th Street to 25th Street; setting April 7, 2021, as bid due date and
April 13, 2021, as the date of public hearing.
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Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
PRELIMINARY PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR 2020/21 CONCRETE PAVEMENT
IMPROVEMENTS (8TH STREET FROM NORTHWESTERN TO DUFF) WITHOUT THE
ADDITIONAL SIDEWALK INFILL ON THE SOUTH OF 8TH STREET FROM WILSON
AVENUE TO CLARK AVENUE; SETTING APRIL 7, 2021, AS BID DUE DATE AND
APRIL 13, 2021, AS DATE OF PUBLIC HEARING: Municipal Engineer Tracy Peterson
explained that this project is for concrete pavement improvements on 8th Street (Northwestern
Avenue to Duff Avenue). Conversations were had with the neighborhood by letters and
informational videos/web pages. City Engineer Abdelhafiz Ibrahim explained that, during his
outreach, the neighborhood was mostly concerned about access, but all were in favor of the project.
Mr. Ibrahim noted that after analysis, it was recommended that sidewalk infill not be implemented
along the south side of 8th Street from Wilson Avenue to Clark Avenue. There were several concerns
with the design that lead staff to not recommend implementation of the sidewalk infill, including the
removal of five mature trees and the relocation of existing electric overhead poles/lines. There is an
existing sidewalk on the north side, thereby providing connectivity through the neighborhood.
Ms. Peterson mentioned that last week staff met via phone with a few low-vision groups in the
community and all the Public Works projects were discussed. The groups were supportive of staff’s
recommendations.
Council Member Betcher asked if staff knew what the sidewalk condition was on the north side of
8th Street. She pointed out that she hadn’t walked in the area in a while, but recalled that a few
sections were getting bad. She wondered if this would be an opportunity for outreach to the owners
of the sidewalk to do any updates or repairs. Ms. Peterson mentioned that staff could look, but during
its cursory look, there was nothing that stood out. She commented that staff will follow up with any
property owners if repairs are needed.
Mayor Haila opened public comment and closed it when no one came forward.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Gartin, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-140 approving the
preliminary plans and specifications for the 2020/21 Concrete Pavement Improvements (8th Street
from Northwestern to Duff), without the additional sidewalk infill on the south of 8th Street from
Wilson Avenue to Clark Avenue; setting April 7, 2021, as the bid due date and April 13, 2021, as
the date of public hearing.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
MINOR LAND USE POLICY PLAN AMENDMENT TO THE AMES URBAN FRINGE
PLAN AT 23959 - 580TH AVENUE AND ADJACENT PARCELS: City Planner Julie Gould
stated the initial application came from Roger S. Larson in July 2020, and City Council voted at that
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time to allow this request to move forward. After July 2020, additional annexation applications were
submitted and the Fringe Area Plan Amendment area had been enlarged to include additional
properties (LDY LLC, and the Banker’s Trust properties) in order to create an orderly boundary
change with the designation to Planned Industrial. Ms. Gould pointed out a typo on the Addendum
in the Council Action Form: under the heading “Ames Urban Fringe Plan” it notes the Amendment
is to change the designation to “Rural Residential” when it is actually “Planned Industrial.” Planned
Industrial policies address use and land use designation locations being located near limited access
thoroughfares to accommodate the transportation of industrial goods and services. Given the
proximity to the Prairie View Industrial Center and future Highway 30 interchange it would not be
unexpected for future development to occur in the area. There are no changes being proposed to the
properties for land uses at this time. The Larson Leasing site operates on rural water and this would
be maintained. There will not be any immediate impact to the existing residences on 580th Avenue.
The Planning & Zoning Commission voted to recommend approval and the Story County Board of
Supervisors approved the proposed Amendment. The Gilbert City Council will consider this request
at an upcoming meeting. Planning Director Kelly Diekmann noted that Gilbert’s approval is not
necessary for final approval of the change due to its location to the east of Ames and is a change that
does not directly affect Gilbert.
The Mayor opened public comment. It was closed when no one came forward.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-141 approving the Minor
Amendment to the Ames Urban Fringe Plan Land Use Framework Map to change the land use
designation of approximately 144 acres of land located at the northwest corner of 580th Avenue and
Highway 30, from Agriculture\Long Term Industrial Reserve to Planned Industrial, and an
amendment to the Ames Urban Fringe Plan Land Use Classes Map to reflect the changes to the
subclasses.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
PRELIMINARY PLAT FOR KINGSBURY SUBDIVISION, 5TH ADDITION: Council Member
Beatty-Hansen stated the Council received an email from Jim Gregory questioning if there was any
plan to extend the South 3rd on-street bike facility east of South Duff to Cherry Avenue and then
north on Cherry Avenue to East Lincoln Way. Mr. Gregory thought it was going to be part of the
Long-Range Bicycle Plan. Planning and Housing Director Kelly Diekmann mentioned that he would
have to follow-up separately as he is not familiar with the Bike Plan for this area. Ms. Beatty-Hansen
commented that she would forward the email to City Manager Steve Schainker to distribute to staff.
Council Member Martin stated they would generally expect that there would be a bike facility on
Southeast 3rd Street, and if the street were to be extended, they would expect to see bicycle
accommodations through the extended streets. Director Diekmann explained that would be part of
the Complete Streets Plan.
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Council Member Gartin wanted to clarify at what point would the Council expect to see bike
infrastructure on the Plat map. Mr. Diekmann noted that the Council wouldn’t see it as there is not
a bike lane standard in the Subdivision Code.
The Mayor asked if anyone from the public wished to speak. No one requested to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-142 approving the
Preliminary Plat for Kingsbury Subdivision, 5th Addition.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Gartin, to direct staff to work with the developer to prepare a
Development Agreement update for deferral of sidewalks and extension of SE 3rd Street.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
PRELIMINARY PLAT FOR QUARRY ESTATES SUBDIVISION, 5TH ADDITION AT 1899
HYDE AVENUE: Director Diekmann stated Planner Justin Moore was available for any questions.
The Mayor asked if there was anyone from the public who wished to speak. There was no one
wishing to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-143 approving the
Preliminary Plat for Quarry Estates Subdivision, 5th Addition at 1899 Hyde Avenue.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
INITIATION OF FLUMMERFELT CRANE ANNEXATION AT THE INTERSECTION OF
LINCOLN WAY AND NORTH 500TH AVENUE: Planning and Housing Director Kelly
Diekmann stated that if the Council approves the request it will start the initiation step. A process
will then be started to notify multiple governmental entities, property owners, a public hearing with
the Planning and Zoning Commission, and then eventually coming back to City Council. The process
will take about three months before it would come back to the Council. Because the Annexation
would need to proceed as an 80/20, the request would need to be presented and approved by the City
Development Board and the State before it could be finalized.
The Mayor stated that the Council had received several emails with questions regarding this project
and those have been forwarded to Director Diekmann to address. He pointed out that the Council
is not voting to annex the area; tonight is to start the initiation process.
City Planner Eloise Sahlstrom explained that the City had received annexation petitions from two
property owners. The site is immediately west of the Ames corporate limits and extends to the Boone
County line of North 500th Avenue. She pointed out on the location map that there is a small island
of land that is surrounded, and according to State law, that property cannot remain in the County and
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will need to be annexed. The area proposed for annexation has two separate designations that include
Urban Service Area with an Urban Residential designation as well as Rural Urban Transitional Area
with Highway Oriented Commercial. The intent of these designations is for development of
residential in conjunction with three to five acres of commercial land at the corner of Lincoln
Highway and North 500th Avenue. The non-consenting properties (other than the island property)
would be able to remain, if Council chooses to allow them to stay in the County, as it would not
create an island. However, if the City Council chooses not to proceed with including those
properties, the properties would need to be annexed in the future to avoid creating an island when
land to the south owned by Wolfe-Belitsos is annexed. A concept plan has yet to be submitted, but
in discussions with the developer, their first preference is to rezone and develop the land under
Residential Low-Density Park (RLP) zoning as a manufactured home park with a corner commercial
node.
Ms. Sahlstrom advised that Sunset Ridge was platted to the north and east with stub streets abutting
the property to eventually be connected to the site. It was the intention that Ellston Avenue and
Springbrook Street would continue into this area with similar FS-RL development. Terminating
public streets at the current street stubs is not acceptable for circulation in this area, regardless of use.
If the new development were not to have an interconnected network with Sunset Ridge, Ellston
Avenue, and Springbrook Drive, there would be a minimum requirement to connect to one another
as an extension of Sunset Ridge. Ms. Sahlstrom mentioned that at this time no concept has been
provided. The next step would be rezoning with a Master Plan. If the Council agreed to initiate the
Flummerfelt Crane annexation, in the Pre-Annexation Agreement, staff will need to address the
issues of requiring a traffic study prior to rezoning, extension of water lines at the time of
development consistent with the City’s Master Plan, address the extension of stubbed streets from
Sunset Ridge Subdivision, and restrict development on previously platted county lots.
Council Member Gartin asked Ms. Sahlstrom to give some background on the Crestview Mobile
Home Park, as he believed this property is currently a non-consenting property. Ms. Sahlstrom
mentioned that the mobile home park is no longer there, and the property is vacant except for
residential structures.
Council Member Betcher mentioned that the non-consenting properties have the potential to be
brought in later when the Wolfe-Belitsos property is annexed. She wanted to know if leaving a
jagged edge is something the City Development Board would likely look at and be concerned about.
Ms. Sahlstrom explained that they will definitely look at the jagged edge; it would make sense to
square up the properties.
Council Member Martin mentioned that there is potentially a rental home in the annexation. He
wanted to know what would happen to Letters of Compliance when a rental property is brought into
the City. Ms. Sahlstrom noted that the property owner would become subject to the City of Ames
rental code. Mr. Martin noted that the owner is aware that rezoning is a subsequent decision and
there may be constraints that make the idea of a manufactured home community to be less desirable.
He questioned if there was any policy in the Land Use Policy Plan (LUPP) or something in the works
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with the Comprehensive Plan that addresses manufactured home communities as opposed to other
types of housing. Director Diekmann explained that in the current LUPP, it is just a zone that
someone may apply for, and in the Ames Plan 2024, the product type was not identified as a type of
housing. Mr. Diekmann stated they did not speak about mobile homes as a particular building type.
Brant Lemer, 5333 Tabor Drive, Ames, and property owner of 5615 West Lincoln Way, Ames,
stated that he spoke under Public Forum in February 2020. He wanted to know why there are two
proposed involuntary annexation applications and not an annexation from the applicant who wants
to do its own development. He noted that a plan in 2020 wasn’t on the Agenda and no one knew
about it. Director Diekmann pointed out that there was an incomplete Annexation application a year
ago that was never forwarded to the City Council. Mr. Lemer stated that no plans had any
commercial frontage. He noted how the City Council is good about not exercising a forcible
annexation. It was noted that he is currently a non-consenting property, but may become consenting
depending on if all his questions could be answered.
Chuck Winkelblack, 105 S. 16th Street, Ames, stated that this is the start of the process, and he
understands there is a lot of work to be done. They are unable to move forward until the process is
started. He explained that they are in favor of having commercial on the corner of the property and
met with staff last week to go over issues. He encouraged the Council to move forward with his
request regardless of including the non-consenting properties or not. Mr. Winkelblack explained that
he has been upfront with the Lemer and the Adam families and it didn’t make a difference to them
if their properties are annexed as they just want to move forward with their property. He understood
that there is no guarantee on zoning.
The Mayor asked Director Diekmann to address some of Mr. Lemer’s questions. Mr. Diekmann
stated that, in terms of the Land Use diagram that was shown, there is the expectation of a
commercial property on the corner. There could be additional commercial, but until a rezoning is
done, the precise boundaries wouldn’t be known. He explained that when the property comes into
the City, it will be Agriculturally zoned and then a property owner would suggest a rezoning
boundary. It was noted that the first three months is the annexation process and once the City
Development Board has made the decision to allow the Annexation, the rezoning discussion and
process would start.
Mayor Haila inquired if all of the south end of the proposed site is going to be Highway-Oriented
Commercial. Mr. Diekmann mentioned that this is a unique case as this is the first time staff has had
an annexation with the Highway Commercial designation. He explained that he would not interpret
that the south two-thirds are going to be commercial, but there will be a commercial component.
Brent Adams, 5507 Lincoln Way, Ames, stated he was unaware this item was being presented
tonight as he did not receive any notification. It was a year ago that this area was discussed, and he
was told to speak with Director Diekmann. He mentioned that he spoke with Mr. Diekmann and was
told “that without a plan it was too complicated to explain without specific items,” but was sent an
email with frequently asked questions. After reading through the information, he saw no benefit to
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being annexed into the City. He stated that since the property across from him isn’t annexed into the
City and he would not create an island, he should be able to stay with the County.
Ryan Doyle, 5620 Allerton Drive, Ames, stated he is a property owner who abuts the property being
discussed. He understood that the discussion tonight was not about rezoning to something else, but
as an abutting property owner, he wanted his voice to be heard. Mr. Doyle explained that he is very
concerned about the Flummerfelt’s operations. He mentioned that when the Flummerfelts purchased
the property, within a week over 300 trees were scheduled to be taken down. It was explained that
he is not sure if the Flummerfelt organization was supposed to discuss its plans with the neighboring
properties or not, but he is concerned with the lack of transparency. Mr. Doyle stated after reading
the Council Action Form he would like to urge the City to try to make sure there are hard agreements
on paper. Mayor Haila asked Mr. Doyle what his concerns were regarding the intent of the property.
Mr. Doyle mentioned that, from what they understood, the new organization that bought the property
was a manufactured community. As abutting property owners, they would not want to endorse that
type of residential model. He noted that this has moved quickly and the lack of transparency was
concerning.
Lauris Olson, 1705 Buchanan Drive, Ames, stated she is a former Story County Supervisor and is
now retired. She mentioned that she is a vocal advocate for a variety of housing in the community,
especially for people who can’t buy a $250,000 or higher home. Ms. Olson wanted to remind
everyone that single-family residential also includes mobile homes. Some people elect to have
manufactured housing and one of the reasons is affordability. She stated that they would not be
discussing very low-income families as she believed the Flummerfelt houses sell over $70,000 and
higher homes. She urged the Council to move forward with the Annexation and to keep options
open. She mentioned that she is aware that the Crane/Flummerfelt property is private property and
they had every right to cut trees down.
The public comment period was closed by Mayor Haila when no one else requested to speak.
Moved by Martin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to initiate an 80/20 Annexation to include the
original Petition plus all four non-consenting properties.
Council Member Martin stated that given the Tier 1 designation for the nearby area, this is the right
approach. They need to look at what all the combinations are with an attitude towards making it part
of Ames.
Council Member Gartin agreed with Mr. Martin. He wished the City would have annexed this area
several years ago. Mr. Gartin thought the discussion about the role of mobile homes is a good start
for further discussions that need to be had regarding mobile homes. The Council needs to look at
having a component of manufacturing housing as a possibility.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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Moved by Martin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to direct staff to prepare a Pre-Annexation
Agreement for the Flummerfelt Crane Annexation at the intersection of Lincoln Way and North 500th
Avenue.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The meeting recessed at 8:10 p.m. and reconvened at 8:17 p.m.
DEMOLITION OF KAPPA KAPPA GAMMA SORORITY AT 120 LYNN AVENUE WITH
CONDITIONS: City Planner Justin Moore stated that the Delta Omicron Chapter of Kappa Kappa
Gamma sorority is seeking approval to demolish its existing sorority house at 120 Lynn Avenue in
order to construct a new sorority house in the same location. Kappa Kappa Gamma received
approval in December 2019 for demolition of this same house and shortly thereafter received
approval of a Minor Site Development Plan for construction of the replacement sorority building.
The structure, however, was not demolished, and Kappa Kappa Gamma has now applied for a new
Minor Site Development Plan. The major differences with the previous approved plan include a
reduction in overall size, a change to the exterior roof design, and new facade materials. The current
structure accommodates 62 members, while the proposal to build a new structure would
accommodate 61. Mr. Moore mentioned that the sorority is still planning to maintain a lot of brick
on the side of the building, but have proposed timber-frame stucco on the upper level. He noted that
both the cost to rehabilitate the existing home and the cost to construct a new home have increased
since 2019. The difference showed that new construction would cost more than rehabilitation. Mr.
Moore noted that new construction is eligible to apply for tax abatement and this location would be
eligible if the City Council approves the demolition request prior to April 1, 2021. The entire Urban
Revitalization Area (URA) is scheduled to cease to exist as of April 1, 2024 and Kappa Kappa
Gamma must come back before the Council to claim the tax abatement prior to that date.
The Mayor asked for input from the public. No one wished to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-144 approving the
demolition of Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority at 120 Lynn Avenue with conditions.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
2021/22 PROPOSED ANNUAL ACTION PLAN PROJECTS FOR COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) AND HOME PROGRAMS: Housing Coordinator
Vanessa Baker-Latimer explained that she prefers to get the Council’s feedback before the Plan goes
out for public forums. Any feedback received during public forums is then brought back to the
Council. She noted that everything is behind as the 2020/21 Plan was just submitted, but she
received notification from Housing and Urban Development (HUD) that the 2020/21 allocation
would be $590,475 in CDBG funds, which is a $12,075 decrease, and $350,543 in HOME funds,
which is a $118,034 decrease. Now that the City has received its allocation amounts, it is time to
begin the process for determining the 2021/22 Annual Action Plan projects. Ms. Baker-Latimer
noted that typically the Action Plan is due by May 17, 2021, and staff will be asking for an extension
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to submit the Plan no later than August 16, 2021. It is the hope that the Plan will be done in June.
Staff is proposing the following program projects for consideration for the 2021/22 Action Plan:
1. Utilize CDBG funds to acquire and demolish deteriorated housing city-wide; to sell
or transfer these lots or houses to non-profit housing organizations to provide low-
income households for rent or purchase with preference being targeted to the
Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy Area (NRSA).
2.Utilize CDBG funds to acquire and demolish deteriorated commercial property city-
wide and resell the property for redevelopment (up to 30% of the annual allocation
can be used for non-low-and moderate-income benefit directed toward removing
slum and blight).
Staff is recommending that the anticipated combined budgets of $2,973,901 be allocated to the
project activities listed below:
1.CDBG Acquisition/Reuse Program for Affordable Housing and/or for Slum and
Blight (including demolition) - $572,380
2.CDBG Public Infrastructure Improvements Program for Baker Subdivision -
$400,000
3.CDBG-CV CARES (Rent, Mortgage, and Utility) Relief Assistance - $200,000
4.HOME Homeownership Construction Program - $762,265
5.HOME Down Payment Assistance - $381,382
6.HOME LIHTC Multi-Family Assistance - $350,000
7.General Administration for CDBG, HOME & CARES - CDBG $118,095, HOME
$174,779, and CARES $15,000
Council Member Betcher asked if there were any concerns about meeting the timeliness test with
all the rolling deadlines and unknowns. Ms. Baker-Latimer stated that is always a concern of hers.
She has been working diligently to make sure the City meets its timeliness test for this year. HUD
has said there is a grace period, but that is not always given. Ms. Baker-Latimer stated she is not
going to take any chances this year since the timeliness deadline was already changed from May to
June 30, 2021, but the City is going to stick with its May 2, 2021, deadline.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-145 approving the
proposed 2021/22 Annual Action Plan projects and to authorize staff to prepare the Action Plan
document for a 30-day comment period.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
CITY ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEM: Mayor Haila asked if there were any members of the
public who would like to speak. NO one requested to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-146 approving the final
plans and specifications and awarding a contract to Commonwealth Electric Company of the
Midwest of Des Moines, Iowa, in the amount of $644,276.
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Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH STORY COUNTY REGARDING CITY
ASSESSOR’S OFFICE PAYROLL AND BENEFIT ADMINISTRATION: Assistant City
Manager Brian Phillips commented that he was available to answer any questions.
Council Member Martin mentioned that he had one concern regarding the Memorandum of
Understanding (MOU). He stated he had a concern about Item No. 8 on the MOU regarding
“Employee Values and Cooperation.” It states that the City Assessor will participate on the City’s
Executive Leadership Team and will adopt, support, and embody the Excellence Through People
organizational values. He thought it was a great idea, but doesn’t believe the City Council and the
Board of Supervisors have the authority to ask the City Assessor to do this. Mr. Martin believed that
would be a Conference Board decision. Assistant City Manager Brian Phillips explained that the
intent was to put into one document all the ways there would be collaboration among the City
Assessor’s Office, the City of Ames, and the Story County Board of Supervisors. Mr. Phillips noted
that Mr. Martin was correct, and that Item No. 8 is more of a Conference Board function as the
supervisors of the Assessor. He thought it would be reasonable if the Council adopted the Agreement
between the City and the County, then take the MOU to the Conference Board for its agreement on
the non-benefit parts of the MOU.
Moved by Martin, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-147 approving the
Memorandum of Understanding with Story County regarding the City Assessor’s Office payroll and
benefit administration.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
Moved by Martin, seconded by Betcher, to direct staff to take the Memorandum of Understanding
to the Conference Board with the appropriate language for its approval.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
VARIABLE FREQUENCY DRIVES (VFDs) FOR UNIT 7 COOLING TOWER AT THE
POWER PLANT: Moved by Martin, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-148
waiving the City’s Purchasing Policies regarding formal bidding procedures and accept quotes rather
than formal bids.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
Moved by Martin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-149 awarding a
contract to The Baker Group of Ankeny, Iowa, for the purchase and installation of the Variable
Frequency Drives in the amount of $72,565 (inclusive of sales tax).
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
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ENGINEERING AND MATERIAL TO IMPROVE CONTROL OF UNIT 8 BOILER
SUPERHEATER OUTLET STEAM TEMPERATURE: Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by
Gartin, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-150 waiving the City’s Purchasing Policies regarding formal
bidding procedures and allow for single-source purchasing.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-151 awarding a
contract to The Babcock & Wilcox Company of Kansas City, Missouri, for the engineering and for
the sourcing and fabrication of material for the purpose of improving the control of the steam
temperature of Unit 8 Boiler in the amount of $376,486.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON VOLUNTARY ANNEXATION OF PROPERTY LOCATED AT 4514 HYDE
AVENUE: Planning and Housing Director Kelly Diekmann noted this item was a 100% Voluntary
Annexation and he was available to answer any questions.
The public hearing was opened by the Mayor.
Diane McCauley, address unknown, Ames, mentioned she was the President of Bloomington
Courtyard Townhome Association directly south of the Hyde Avenue Annexation. She wanted to
express the concern as a Townhome Association adjoining this piece of property from a development
and ecological standpoint. There is a large drainage ditch between her property and this property that
goes to Ada Hayden. Ms. McCauley stated she looked forward to the next stage in the process and
will be keeping track of what is going on.
Director Diekmann explained that the developer is planning on leaving the existing house on the
property and possibly creating another lot for a single-family home. The developer does have ideas
about how to use storm water management techniques on this property to help serve the conservation
subdivision requirements for the property west of this location. The next time anyone will see
something in this area will be once the Annexation is complete, a rezoning request will come next.
When no one else asked to speak, Mayor Haila closed the public hearing.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-152 approving the
Annexation of the property located at 4514 Hyde Avenue.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-153 approving the
Covenant and Agreement pertaining to Water Service for the property located at 4514 Hyde Avenue.
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Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON VOLUNTARY ANNEXATION OF PROPERTIES LOCATED AT [1] 23959-
580TH AVENUE (FORMERLY CAREMOLI), [2] ONE-QUARTER MILE WEST OF 580TH
AVENUE (NORTH OF HIGHWAY 30), AND [3] 59.69 ACRES WEST OF 580TH AVENUE
AND NORTH OF U.S. HIGHWAY 30: City Planner Julie Gould stated that the City received
Voluntary Annexation Petitions from three property owners representing four parcels that total
approximately 115.19 acres. There are two owners for the four parcels, LDY LLC, and Larson
Leasing LC. Because these properties are located within two miles of the City of Nevada, the request
will need to go to the City Development Board for approval. There are some residential and a couple
commercial properties along 580th Avenue. Property owners along 580th Avenue were contacted as
a courtesy to gauge interest in participating voluntarily with the annexation and currently none has
chosen to be annexed at this time. Ms. Gould mentioned that the Iowa Department of Transportation
plans to construct a new interchange in the vicinity of this site creating a primary entrance from
Highway 30 to the City’s planned Prairie View Industrial Center. There are no City utilities that
currently serve the site, but there will be a water extension along East Lincoln Way that will go out
to bid in 2021. Ms. Gould commented that there is no plan to extend water to the south. Staff pointed
out that this is a unique situation that the City was proceeding with the annexation that has vacant
land that is served by rural water and not covered by a water service territory buyout agreement.
Since there are no plans for the LDY properties to develop currently, staff is recommending moving
forward. Any future development on the vacant lands will require rezoning and subdivision approval,
which at that time the City will require conformance to the City’s infrastructure standards. Rural
water service buyouts may be required of the property owners in order to meet the requirements.
The Mayor opened public comment. It was closed when no one requested to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Gartin, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-154 approving the
Annexation of the properties located at [1] 23959-580th Avenue (formerly Caremoli), [2] one-
quarter mile west of 580th Avenue (north of Highway 30), and [3] 59.69 acres west of 580th Avenue
and north of U.S. Highway 30.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON PROPOSAL TO ADOPT BY REFERENCE THE 2020 EDITION OF THE
NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE: Council Member Gartin asked what kind of outreach was done
and if there had been any feedback received.
Fire Chief Rich Higgins stated four different outreach events were done. On January 18, 2021,
Inspections staff e-mailed the Ames Home Builders Association and all electrical contractors who
have done business with the Inspections Division within the last year to notify them of the proposed
2020 NEC adoption process and inviting them to attend the February 1 Building Board of Appeals
meeting. There were no contractors present for the meeting and no public input was submitted. A
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follow-up email was sent to the same contractors on March 2, 2021, making them aware of the April
1, 2021, effective date for the State’s adoption of the 2020 NEC. An additional email was sent on
March 10, 2021, notifying the contractors that the Council set the public hearing for March 23, 2021.
A final presentation was done with the Ames Home Builders Association (AHBA). There has not
been any feedback in favor or against the changes to the NEC.
Council Member Gartin inquired if the building standards were consistent with what staff is seeing
with similarly size peer communities in Iowa. Building Official Sara VanMeeteren commented that
the City has to adopt what the State adopts at a minimum, regardless of what other jurisdictions are
doing. She noted that there is one local amendment that has been adopted for several years regarding
the use of non-metallic cable in commercial structures. Ms. VanMeeteren stated there were several
changes made at the State level, and the contractors are aware of the changes due to having to get
licensed through the State. One comment that was received from the contractors was that they had
already started implementing the updated Code as it was thought to already be in place.
The Mayor opened the public hearing and closed it after there was no one wishing to speak.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Junck, to pass on first reading an Ordinance to adopt by
reference the 2020 Edition of the National Electric Code with two State of Iowa amendments and
one local amendment.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON 2020/21 COLLECTOR STREET PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS (E. 20TH
STREET): The Mayor opened the public hearing. It was closed when no one asked to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Gartin, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-155 approving the final
plans and specifications and awarding a contract to All Star Concrete of Johnston, Iowa, in the
amount of $776,718.91.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON 2020/21 CYRIDE ROUTE PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS (9TH STREET):
The Mayor opened the public hearing and closed it after there was no one wishing to speak.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Gartin, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-156 approving the
final plans and specifications and awarding a contract to All Star Concrete of Johnston, Iowa, in the
amount of $672,550.34.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
PRESENTATION FY 2020/21 WATER RATES: Water and Pollution Control Director John
Dunn highlighted the recent rate adjustments in Ames from FY 2016/17 to FY 2020/21. The annual
average water rate adjustment was 2.5% while sewer was 1.6%. Nationally water rates have been
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climbing at twice the rate of the City of Ames, and sewer rates, by about 2½ times the rate. A slide
was displayed showing the water and sewer trends for the City of Ames versus overall Iowa trends.
Director Dunn went over the data points for Iowa trends in water rates with cities that have a
population greater than 10,000. The City of Ames is in the 29th percentile based on the 2020 rates.
A graph was shown that indicated the trends of what the ending fund balance is per fiscal year along
with the operating reserve and the percentage rate increase. Mr. Dunn stated that they did a ten-year
rate projection, and the base pattern is to try to do a water increase one year and a sewer increase the
next. He reminded the public that all that is being recommended is for the Council to approve the
first year 6% water increase; the other years are just projections for planning purposes only. A slide
was shown regarding what a sample customer bill would look like with the rate increase. Staff is
recommending that the Council adopt on first reading, an Ordinance to adjust the water rates by 6%
to be effective on bills mailed on or after July 1, 2021.
Council Member Betcher mentioned that Director Dunn did not go over the slide that showed what
forces were driving capital expenses. She thought anyone that was watching the meeting would want
to know what was contributing to the significant increase. Mr. Dunn explained that the operating
expenses were projected by looking at what the trends and expenses have been for the past few years.
The water fund looked at the need for new sources of water capacity and resiliency. The sewer fund
is the nutrient reduction modifications. There is also a need for infrastructure renewal and
replacements (sewer rehab, water main replacement, treatment facility improvements).
The Mayor opened the public hearing. There was no one wishing to speak, and the hearing was
closed.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Junck, to pass on first reading an ordinance to increase water rates
by 6%, effective July 1, 2021.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
ORDINANCE REQUIRING SECONDHAND DEALERS TO OBTAIN A PERMIT TO
CONDUCT BUSINESS WITHIN THE CITY OF AMES: Moved by Corrieri, seconded by
Beatty-Hansen, to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO. 4432 requiring Secondhand
Dealers to obtain a permit to conduct business within the City of Ames.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Ordinance declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
ORDINANCE REDUCING THE NUMBER OF VEHICLE PARKING SPACES REQUIRED
FOR APARTMENT USE IN THE DOWNTOWN SERVICE CENTER ZONING DISTRICT:
Moved by Martin, seconded by Corrieri, to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO. 4433
reducing the number of vehicle parking spaces required for apartment use in the Downtown Service
Center Zoning District.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Ordinance declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
19
ORDINANCE REZONING 2801 & 2803 WEST STREET FROM RESIDENTIAL HIGH
DENSITY TO NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL WITH UNIVERSITY WEST IMPACT
OVERLAY: Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to pass on third reading and adopt
ORDINANCE NO. 4434 rezoning 2801 & 2803 West Street from Residential High Density to
Neighborhood Commercial with University West Impact Overlay.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Ordinance declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
DISPOSITIONS OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: The Mayor mentioned that there
were two items for discussion. The first was a memo from the Planning and Housing Department
regarding staff’s response to the request from the City of Nevada for an Ames Urban Fringe Plan
(AUFP) Map Amendment. City Manager Steve Schainker recommended this item be placed on the
next Agenda for direction.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Junck, to direct staff to place the request from the City of Nevada
for an Ames Urban Fringe Plan (AUFP) Map Amendment on the next City Council Agenda.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The next item was a memo from Traffic Engineer Damion Pregitzer regarding the Stange Road
Speed Study (north of Bloomington Road). Mr. Schainker explained that Mr. Pregitzer is not
recommending any major changes besides increased enforcement in the area. He mentioned that if
the Council Members do not agree with the finding, they could direct staff to place the item on a
future agenda for Mr. Pregitzer to present all the data. The Mayor stated if the Council does not want
to place the item on a future Agenda, staff will proceed with its recommendations. There was no
interest from the Council to place the item on a future Agenda.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Council Member Betcher stated she had received an email from the
City’s Community and Regional Planning partners. Professor Alenka Poplin wanted to know if it
was possible to use the remaining money from their studio project to help pay for three students to
attend an international conference where they would present its result from their study. She noted
that City Manager Steve Schainker recommended putting the request on the next City Council
Agenda to discuss if the Council thought that would be a useful allocation of the remaining funds.
Ms. Betcher commented that most of the funds were not allocated due to COVID. Mr. Schainker
mentioned that he believed there is enough money to cover the students, but this request was not part
of the initial scope, so further approval would be needed.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to direct staff to put the request from the Community and
Regional Planning partners on the next Agenda.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Mayor Haila wanted to reiterate his statement that was released today in response to the tragic
violence that occurred in Atlanta that affected the Asian and Asian-American community members
and the violence in Boulder. He read a portion of his statement that “the City of Ames remains
20
resolutely committed to maintaining and strengthening our inclusive and welcoming city. We express
our unequivocal support of our Asian and Asian-American community members. I call upon all
Ames residents to join in a collective resolve to make our community safe and welcoming to
everyone.”
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Gartin to adjourn the meeting at 9:25 p.m.
______________________________________________________________________
Amy L. Colwell, Deputy City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
__________________________________
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk
21
Iowa State University Student Government Senate
March 17th, 2021
Taken by Trevor Poundstone
Joint Ames City Council and Student Government Meeting
March 17th, 2021
The Great Hall, Memorial Union, Iowa State University
Present: Mayor John Haila, Council Members Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen, Gloria Betcher, Amber
Corrieri, Tim Gartin, and David Martin. Council Member Rachel Junck was absent. Ex-officio
City Council Liaison Nicole Whitlock was also present. City Manager Steven Schainker,
Assistant City Manager Deb Schildroth, and Assistant City Manager Brian Phillips were also
present.
5:00:00 PM- CALL TO ORDER
5:00:42 PM- HAILA: We are excited to hear from you as students are a part of our population
as well. You can start when you are ready.
5:00:55 PM- SCHRADER: Hello, we will get started then. We will follow the agenda prepared
by Nicole Whitlock, our Ex-Officio to the Ames City Council. There will be a few times for
open discussion. I will call on one or two people during this time to make sure to stay on
schedule. Then we will have presentations from each council member on topics they care about.
Then we will wrap up.
5:01:45 PM- DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION IN AMES
5:01:56 PM- SCHRADER: What can the city council be doing to improve in this area? If you
have any questions, please raise your hand.
5:02:27 PM- WHITLOCK: After last week in student government, I feel that students are not
feeling good, whatever side you are on. I think the city does a good job of making people feel
included. An example is when the BLM movement had a bigger wave last fall, and we planned a
workshop with them later this year. Continuing to reach out first is important. We need to be
aware of all the groups in the community. Making sure we are there for them.
5:03:51 PM- HAILA: Thank you Nicole and I cannot agree more. I think that a barrier can
always be a challenge. I believe our website is multilingual. Brian, can you comment on that?
5:04:27 PM- PHILLIPS: Our website is translatable. We also have a service that if people call
any city related office or come in a talk, we have a phone translation service available.
5:05:07 PM- HAILA: That is one thing we are doing right now. Another thing we are doing is
bringing in the inclusive cross walk, which was voted on unanimously in favor. This was meant
to show the cities support for marginalized groups. I had a discussion, pre COVID, where a
Latina student came in and started talking about a Latin/x festival in Ames to celebrate that
culture. We asked what else we could do. We could support so many groups. COVID stopped
some of these things. The Human Relations Commission is extremely diverse, by intention. We
have five people who serve on it. We always want to reach out to those from marginalized
Iowa State University Student Government Senate
March 17th, 2021
Taken by Trevor Poundstone
groups as well. The council is a governing body, it takes the whole community to create a
welcoming space for people of marginalized communities. We need to recognize their challenges
and make sure to cater to them. It is an ongoing opportunity. I will defer to other council
members.
5:08:11 PM- BETCHER: I would like to follow up on the idea of barriers. Any city in the
nation is experiencing a lack of trust in government. When you have a government that is made
up of middle-class white people, it is hard to build trust with marginalized communities. It is
difficult to make them want to be part of city government. It may because our jobs do not pay
well. You need to be in a good spot. There are a lot of barriers in getting involved in city issues
and government and I would love to see us get more people of marginalized communities to be a
part of our governmental system. Anyone who has done this work knows this has to continue.,
We gave to keep working at it. That barrier of trust is huge, and we are going to keep showing up
and trying to show that. Nicole pointed that out as something we are working on.
5:10:11 PM- INFORMATION TO NEW STUDENTS IN AMES AND ASSOCIATED
PROBLEMS
5:10:15 PM- SCHOLTE: My name is Senator Scholte, and I am a second year in BioSystems
and I am the chair of the civic engagement committee. We have been focusing on how we will
be interacting with the community. One thing we have been working on is utilizing the Ames
libraries. Every student who takes Lib 160, will receive resources for Ames Public Library. Next
year we will do marketing for the library. The second project is the amazing race. We want to
have a scavenger hunt around Ames to get students involved with local businesses. This will
probably be next semester.
5:12:31 PM- FAHEEM: First Gloria, I am happy you talked about reaching out to communities.
I would suggest reaching out to the Grad Student Council. Students make up half of the
population and grad students spend the most time in Ames. A few weeks ago, the city council
sent out a climate survey and only had one student involved. How are you working to get
students more involved?
5:13:48 PM- SCHILDROTH: That document is a work in progress. That was the first-time
City Council had seen it. There is an expansion on student representation. We wanted all the
community segments covered. What is a manageable number to serve on this committee?
Council did ask to expand on this. We are planning on doing this. There will be lots of areas to
get involved with this. We are looking at selecting a consultant, we are down to three firms.
Once they are selected, they will look at this and who is on the committee and whether the
engagement plan is effective. If you have further questions or input, please let us know.
5:16:35 PM- HAILA: I had a conversation with a Senator about offering a tour for freshmen
that would utilize CyRide and show these new students around Ames. I love the scavenger hunt
idea. This could expose people to all areas of Ames. This would require a lot of coordination and
cooperation, but it would expose people to what Ames has to offer and is a great thing. At
Iowa State University Student Government Senate
March 17th, 2021
Taken by Trevor Poundstone
welcome fest, we have participated previously. We really enjoy it and have a lot of
representation there. We get a lot of people who come in and ask questions. The more we can get
people exposed, the better. Ames has a lot to offer.
5:20:08 PM- GARTIN: I am very impressed with the amount of volunteer work that the
students of Iowa State provide to the community. It is important for college students to be doing
this. I also want to create paths for students to make change. I do appreciate the role of students
serving in the community.
5:21:04 PM- COUNCIL MEMBER PRESENTATIONS
5:21:12 PM- HAILA: First I want to share that each topic we are bringing up, we are excited
about. Just because some person does not talk about a topic does not mean we are not excited.
Two potential projects are what I am going to talk about. The city purchased a property that will
include a development for low to moderate income houses and renting. They will have 20-30
homes and about 40 rental units. We want a multifamily complex. There are town houses,
apartments and even playgrounds. That is going to be developed. The project is being graded
right now. I hope to see that move forward. This has been worked on for a long time. We all hate
the traffic on south duff. We have the South Grand extension which will help fix this. 16th Street
will also be extended and widened in the future. Sometime fall of this year, we will be cutting the
ribbon on the South Grand extension. The Council just submitted a proposal for a reinvestment
district. This looks at development on Lincoln Way. This will try to put retail, housing, hotel,
central plaza, and some other things on Lincoln Way. There are some cool things going on
Downtown. A new whiskey bar, a new retail store and these are supposed to be catalysts.
Hopefully, we can get funding to replace the indoor aquatic center as well.
5:25:09 PM- BETCHER: I am going to use my time to follow up on some questions asked
earlier. A project I have been involved on is a partnership of the City of Ames and a city
development class. You might have heard a presentation on this at ISCORE, on improving our
outreach for those who are underrepresented. The city manager and I spent several days meeting
with this class and partnered with many others for this project to make it happen. The students
tried to figure out where all our tough to reach people are. They then recommended strategies to
us to better reach these people when we are trying to get input. We have not established the lines
of communications, but we are working on finding the best ways to do so. In the fall we want to
continue this partnership. This was made difficult due to COVID. We hope this helps get more
engagement from those who do not normally engage. We hope there will be an improvement
from this. Secondly, the city just announced a small new arts pilot program. We have a pool of
money of $10,000 for small projects. We want to see applications for these forms those who
want to make Ames more fun and exciting through the arts. Applications are due April 30th. I
will put the application in the chat. Small grant for big ideas. That is what I got.
5:30:04 PM- GARTIN: I have two quick topics. We provide a breadth of services. We provide
so many of the things that people in the city use. I am hoping to inspire some of you to run for
City Council. A few small things, all our directors are forward thinking and innovative. We have
Iowa State University Student Government Senate
March 17th, 2021
Taken by Trevor Poundstone
a new area coming for kayakers, a new solar project, a composting project, and many others. The
other thing is the fact that we are a nonpartisan board. We have never been more divided. We do
not have to worry about politics because it does not belong here. It is nice to not have to worry
about political affiliation.
5:32:46 PM- MARTIN: I would like to bring you up to date on internet developments. I think
many people have come to appreciate the internet over the last year. We have taken an interest in
improving the internet in Ames. I would say that we undertook some projects to see how the city
can improve the services generally. Another company was doing this, so they came to Ames
because it was a good market. The dust has not settled yet. We are waiting to see what this is like
for the residents of Ames. If you live on campus, you already have service. Iowa State has had
the service way longer than anyone else. We are really talking about off campus students, non-
students, and business. The next year, council will begin to think about improving internet access
to the community. One other thing, the whole world discovered how critical good
communication was during the Pandemic. The Federal Communication Commission set aside 3
billion dollars for communications improvements and this should be accessible in a month. This
would provide those who cannot normally afford these things get money. This may be available
sometime in the future.
5:36:49 PM- BEATTY-HANSEN: I wanted to touch on the many things we do to encourage
people to get outside. We do a lot of things here. We have made improvements to our bike
system, off road trails and many other things. We also have done a lot of improvements to our
public water ways. We installed an accessible dock at Ada Hayden. We converted to a tiered
dam system at River Valley Park. We are also expanding our community garden spaces. I think
all these things help Ames residents live in a healthier way.
5:38:52 PM- CORRIERI: The first thing I want to touch on is to say thank you to all the
students who volunteer in our community. I work for one of the organizations, and I get multiple
emails a week for volunteering at these opportunities. We appreciate having this support and
having a readily available pool of people to volunteer. The second thing I want to talk about is
assuring all of you and encouraging you to feel comfortable contacting council members. I know
if can be intimidating and not a lot of people enjoy doing it. All of us are accessible and want to
hear what you have to say. I want to reassure all of you that we are happy to have you contact us.
I hope we can be a resource for students as well. All our contact information is on our website
and you can reach out to us anytime.
5:42:01 PM- CLOSING STATEMENTS
5:42:02 PM- HAILA: I wanted to touch on what Rachel wanted to talk about. We are
undertaking a climate action plan. Council is fully committed, and it will take 18-20 months, but
we are excited to do it. We are taking sustainability very seriously and want to keep improving it
in Ames. Thank you for the partnership that we enjoy. I want to echo what Amber shared. We
are accessible and we want to hear. As we come out of this pandemic, we are excited to
Iowa State University Student Government Senate
March 17th, 2021
Taken by Trevor Poundstone
implement some of the projects and recommendations we have had. We have a great community
and are excited to keep working together.
5:44:18 PM- SCHRADER: I want to say thank you to the members of City Council that could
join as well as the city employees. I think it means a lot that you are willing to do this. I would
like to thank everyone for helping Nicole put this meeting together. We wanted to make sure
information will still be shared the same. Hopefully, next year this will be in person. Thank you
all and have a great day. I adjourn our working session at 5:45:13 PM.
MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA MARCH 30, 2021
The Special Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor John Haila at 1:30 p.m. on the
30th day of March, 2021. The Mayor announced that it was impractical to hold an in-person Council
meeting due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, this meeting was being held as an electronic meeting
as allowed by Section 21.8 of the Iowa Code. Council Members Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen, Gloria Betcher,
Rachel Junck, and David Martin were present. Council Members Amber Corrieri and Tim Gartin were absent
as was ex officio Member Nicole Whitlock. The Mayor described the options available to those who wanted
to offer public input.
RESOLUTION APPROVING PRELIMINARY PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR 2020/21
AIRPORT IMPROVEMENTS [RUNWAY 01/19 & TAXIWAY A (NORTH) LIGHTING
PROJECT: Moved by Betcher, seconded by Martin, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-157 approving
preliminary plans and specifications for the 2020/21 Airport Improvements [Runway 01/19 &
Taxiway A (north) Lighting Project], setting April 21, 2021, as bid due date and April 27, 2021, as
date of public hearing.
Roll Call Vote: 4-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made a
portion of these Minutes.
RESOLUTION APPROVING PRELIMINARY PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR 2019/20
CONCRETE PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS (E. 3RD STREET, E. 2ND STREET, DES MOINES
AVENUE, CENTER AVENUE, DOUGLAS AVENUE, AND 5TH STREET) PROJECT: Mayor Haila
asked if the Council members had any questions for staff. He noted that staff had asked for the Council’s
direction at its March 23, 2021, meeting as to whether to include sidewalk infill. The Council had directed
staff to proceed with this Project including sidewalk infill.
Hearing no questions for staff from the Council members, the Mayor asked if there was anyone from the
public who wished to comment on the Project. Merlin Pfannkuch, 1424 Kellogg Avenue, Ames, informed
the Council that he had not had enough time to review the material for this meeting. He asked that the Council
give him a little time to review this information. Mr. Pfannkuch stated that the City had adopted a Complete
Streets Plan in 2018 and had made a commitment to examine street projects holistic, which he does not
believe is happening.
According to Mr. Pfannkuch, he had sent an email to Public Works Director John Joiner expressing his
disappointment at how easily his questions/comments about sidewalk infill and the Complete Streets Plan
that he raised during the March 23, 2021, Council meeting were dismissed. He acknowledged that he had
received an email from Public Works Director John Joiner this morning regarding the Complete Streets Plan,
but he had another issue he had to address and has not had time to read that email.
Mr. Pfannkuch commented that the City is not following the Complete Streets Plan, and if it is not, he asked
that staff quit pretending that they are. He recommended that staff ask the City Attorney if the City is
following it and also ask the Planning & Housing Director. In the opinion of Mr. Pfannkuch, perhaps that
Department has more to do with Complete Streets than the Public Works Department.
Staff was asked by Mr. Pfannkuch to explain, since this project was contained in the 2019/20 Capital
Improvements Plan (CIP), why it is just going out for bid now. He commented that perhaps it was due to
the pandemic, but in his opinion, contractors would like to know before now that there are projects going
out for bid since he would think that most contractors would have their work projects and schedules
established by now. He admitted that he doesn’t know much about bidding street projects, but it also
appears to him that once the award is made, the City is “at the mercy of the contractor.”
Mr. Pfannkuch questioned how sidewalk infill in this area was going to improve the community and whether
it was even fiscally responsible. In addition, he questioned whether the residents living in the former motel
near the Resource Recovery are going to feel safer because of sidewalks being constructed. He suggested
that the City ask those residents how safe or unsafe they feel walking in the area in question.
It was recalled by Mr. Pfannkuch that he had heard a response from City Manager Steve Schainker during
the March 23, 2021, meeting when Council was asked to decide about including sidewalks in this project
that the Public Works Department was responsible for implementing the Complete Streets Plan and not the
Planning and Housing Department. Mr. Pfannkuch believes that the Planning and Housing Department
should be the ones implementing the Plan. He then read an excerpt from the Web site of
“smartgrowthamerica” about Complete Streets Plans and suggested that the City read and use it.
Since Mr. Pfannkuch had indicated that he had not had time to read the email sent to him by Public Works
Director John Joiner, Mayor Haila asked Mr. Joiner to summarize it. Mr. Joiner read parts of his email related
to connectivity being referenced in the Complete Streets Plan. He noted that connectivity is referenced 52
times in the Complete Streets Plan. Some of the specific pages of the Plan where connectivity is references
and the context in which it is used were given.
The Mayor asked whether Public Works staff would want to comment about the Planning and Housing
Department taking the lead on the Complete Streets Plan. Replying, Traffic Engineer Damion Pregitzer
stated that the Complete Streets Plan is a transportation planning/engineering document. It was developed
by a consultant hired by Public Works, maintained by the Public Works Department, and implemented by
the Public Works Department. Responding to a question raised by Mayor Haila, Mr. Pregitzer commented
that Ames is not the only city in the nation that uses a Complete Streets Plan as a guide. He advised that
Complete Streets is a nationwide guide; the City is not unique. The Plan sets expectations for what streets
should look like.
It was noted by Director Joiner that the Planning and Housing Department was involved in the planning
phase; however, the Plan mainly focuses on infrastructure, which is the responsibility of the Public Works
Department. Mr. Pregitzer added that the consultant hired by the City is a national expert, and the City is
applying national standards through the Complete Streets Plan.
Traffic Engineer Pregitzer explained that the “smartgrowthamerica” web site is run by a non-profit agency
and is comprised of many different agencies - from large metro areas to small cities - who contribute to the
development of policies and best practices. Information from a list of multiple agencies is referenced in the
first part of the Complete Streets Plan.
The Mayor asked staff to comment about the bidding process and why the project is just going out for bids
at this time and to also address Mr. Pfannkuch’s comment about “the contractor having an upper hand on
projects.” Regarding the project in question being bid at this time, Municipal Engineer Tracy Peterson
explained that this project was included in the 2019/20 CIP. There were unforeseen issues that arose with
2
the Welch Avenue (Campustown Improvements Program) project, and the City Council approved diverting
some funding from this project to complete that project. Ms. Peterson stated that this is an ideal time for the
City to be advertising for bids; contractors are now setting up their project time lines. She also noted that
the City asks for public comment on all projects. It is not just due to sidewalk infill being included.
Addressing a comment made by Mr. Pfannkuch alleging that contractors, once an award is made, seem to
have the “upper hand” on projects, Mr. Peterson said that some changes are driven by weather; some are
due to issues that were discovered after the project had begun, and some might be driven by the
contractor’s schedule. The City does not dictate specific tasks to the contractor. She also pointed out that
Iowa Code requires the City to award to the lowest responsive bidder. Also, pertaining to contract change
orders, Ms. Peterson stated that City inspectors are on site often, checking the project and verifying when
issues have arisen. Field conditions do change, and some unexpected conditions arise, which require
additional work to be done by the contractor. City staff thoroughly looks at unit prices to make sure they’re
reasonable. She advised that the majority of this work is street work; there may be a little bit of storm sewer
to be adjusted, but not a lot of extra work. On certain projects, it is discovered after the work has begun
that some sewer pipes need to be enlarged. Contract Change Orders are necessary then because that work
needs to be completed prior to new pavement being installed. Contractors sometimes discover additional
work that needs to be done after they have started the project.
City Manager Schainker said that he had received an email from Mr. Pfannkuch on March 24, 2021, wherein
he asked why Public Works had taken the lead on the Complete Streets Plan. Mr. Schainker read his
response that explained why the Public Works Department is the lead department. He also noted that if the
City Council had determined that staff has incorrectly interpreted the Plan or the policy, it would provide
direction to City staff. Mr. Schainker also commented that the Planning and Housing Department was
involved in the process during the planning phase.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Martin, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-159 approving preliminary
plans and specifications for the 2019/20 Concrete Pavement Improvements (E 3rd Street, E 2nd Street,
Des Moines Avenue, Center Avenue, Douglas Avenue, and 5th Street) project; setting April 21, 2021,
as bid due date and April 27, 2021, as date of public hearing.
Roll Call Vote: 4-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made a
portion of these Minutes.
DISPOSITIONS OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: None
COUNCIL COMMENTS: None.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Beatty-Hansen, to adjourn the meeting at 1:52 p.m.
_____________________________________ ____________________________________
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
3
MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA APRIL 2, 2021
The Special Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor John Haila at 4:05 p.m. on the
2nd day of April, 2021. The Mayor announced that it was impractical to hold an in-person Council meeting
due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, this meeting was being held as an electronic meeting as allowed
by Section 21.8 of the Iowa Code. Council Members Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen, Gloria Betcher, Amber
Corrieri, and Tim Gartin were present. Council Members Rachel Junck and David Martin were absent as was
ex officio Member Nicole Whitlock. The Mayor described the options available to those who wanted to offer
public input.
RESOLUTION AWARDING CONTRACT TO MOVE CLAY SOIL FROM BAKER
SUBDIVISION SITE TO CITY’S STEAM ELECTRIC PLANT’S ASH SITE: Moved by Corrieri,
seconded by Gartin, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-159 awarding a contract to Con-Struct, Inc., of
Ames, Iowa, in the estimated amount of $71,968.20 (inclusive of taxes) to move clay soil from the Baker
Subdivision site to the City’s Steam Electric Plant’s ash site.
Roll Call Vote: 4-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made a
portion of these Minutes.
DISPOSITIONS OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: None.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Council Member Beatty-Hansen advised that KHOI was asking if any
Council members would like to record a short radio clip encouraging masking. If so, they can call
KHOI at 510-812-7989 or text Ms. Beatty-Hansen.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Beatty-Hansen to adjourn the meeting at 4:08 p.m.
_____________________________________ ____________________________________
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
REPORT OF
CONTRACT CHANGE ORDERS
General Description Change Original Contract Total of Prior Amount this Change Contact
Public Works 2017/18 Right of Way
Restoration
Period:
Item No. 5
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE
AMES CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION
AMES, IOWA MARCH 25, 2021
The Regular Meeting of the Ames Civil Service Commission was called to order by Chairman Mike
Crum at 8:15 a.m. on March 25, 2021. As it was impractical for the Commission members to attend
in person, Commission Chairman Mike Crum and Commission Members Harold Pike and Kim
Linduska were brought in telephonically.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 25, 2021: Moved by Pike, seconded by Linduska, to
approve the Minutes of the February 25, 2021, Regular Civil Service Commission meeting.
Vote on Motion: 3-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
CERTIFICATION OF ENTRY-LEVEL APPLICANTS: Moved by Crum, seconded by Linduska,
to certify the following individuals to the Ames City Council as an Entry-Level Applicants:
WPC Assistant Superintendent Tyler Ver Meer 81
Chad Thede 75
Mark Jones 73
Vote on Motion: 3-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Accountant Kim McMillan Robson 82
Danielle Kuhl 77
Shannon Andersen 71
Vote on Motion: 3-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
CORRECTING THE CERTIFICATION OF THE SUBSTATION FOREMAN/CREW LEADER
LIST: Human Resources Director Bethany Jorgenson explained that the Substation Foreman list was
certified on April 23, 2020, with three candidates as an entry level list. At entry level, the list was due
to expire on April 22, 2021. However, the recruitment was actually conducted as a promotional
recruitment, and therefore, should have been certified as a promotional list, which would not expire
until April 22, 2022 (per Section 4.3 of the Civil Service Handbook).
Ms. Jorgensen asked the Civil Service Commission to approve a correction to the certification of the
Substation Foreman from an entry level list to a promotional list.
Moved by Pike, seconded by Crum, to approve a correction to the certification of the Substation
Foreman from an entry level list to a promotional list.
Vote on Motion: 3.0 Motion declared carried unanimously.
COMMENTS: The next Regular Meeting of the Ames Civil Service Commission is scheduled for
April 22, 2021, at 8:15 a.m.
ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 8:26 a.m.
__________________________________ _______________________________________
Michael R. Crum, Chairman Diane R. Voss, City Clerk
Item No. 6
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Item No. 7
Smart Choice
515.239.5133 non-emergency
Administration
fax
515 Clark
To: Mayor John Haila and Ames City Council Members
From: Lieutenant Heath Ropp, Ames Police Department
Date: April 2, 2021
Subject: Beer Permits & Liquor License Renewal Reference City Council Agenda
The Council agenda for April 13, 2021 includes beer permits and liquor license renewals
for:
•Cyclone Experience Network - Hilton Coliseum (1705 Center Dr) - Class C Liquor
License with Catering Privilege, Outdoor service/Sunday sales
•Perfect Games (1320 Dickinson Ave) - Class C Liquor License with Catering Privilege,
Outdoor service/Sunday sales
•Provisions Lot F (2400 North Loop Dr) - Class C Liquor License with Catering Privilege,
Outdoor service/Sunday sales
•Hy-Vee Gas #5018 (636 Lincoln Way) - Class C Beer Permit with Class B Wine Permit
Sunday Sales
•Brick City Grill (2704 Stange Road) - Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service and
Sunday Sales
A review of police records for the past 12 months found no liquor law violations for any
of the above locations. The Ames Police Department recommends renewal of licenses
for all the above businesses.
Item No. 8
1
ITEM # ___9___
DATE: 04/13/21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: REQUESTS FOR SUMMERFEST IN CAMPUSTOWN
BACKGROUND:
Campustown Action Association (CAA) plans to hold its 11th annual Summerfest on
June 5, 2021. The event involves activities for children, live music, and a beer garden.
Organizers plan to close the 200 block of Welch Avenue (from Chamberlain to Hunt
Street) and Chamberlain Street from Welch Avenue to the Chamberlain Lot Y exit from
approximately 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Reserved spaces in Welch Lot T will not be affected and those users will be able to
enter and exit their spaces through the alley west of Welch Avenue. Fire Station #2 will
not be affected by the arrangement of these closures.
Organizers are requesting the following actions by City Council for June 5:
• Closure of the 200 block of Welch Avenue and Chamberlain Street from Welch Avenue to the exit of Chamberlain Lot Y between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. • Closure of parking spaces in the 200 block of Welch Avenue, on Chamberlain Street between Welch Avenue and the Chamberlain Lot Y exit, Welch Lot T, and Chamberlain Lot Y between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. • Access to City-owned electric outlets and waiver of fees for electricity use (approximately $5 loss of revenue) • Blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit • Blanket Vending License and waiver of fee ($50 loss to City Clerk’s Office)
CAA is also requesting a closure of 36 metered parking spaces in the 200 block of
Welch Avenue, on Chamberlain Street between Welch Avenue and the Chamberlain
Lot Y exit, Welch Lot T, and Chamberlain Lot Y between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., and
a waiver of parking meter fees and enforcement (Loss of $120.75 to Parking Fund). The
Council’s policy regarding parking waivers is to consider requests such as this one on a
case-by-case basis, as opposed to requiring reimbursement for lost parking revenue.
Lost parking revenue is only required to be reimbursed under this policy when the
parking waiver is District-wide.
The Ames Chamber of Commerce is providing liability insurance coverage for this
event, since CAA is an affiliate organization of the Chamber. Police Department staff
2
will issue a Noise Permit for the event. CAA will contact affected businesses by going
door-to-door, distributing flyers, and through email contacts.
City staff has not evaluated this event against the COVID-19 criteria that were
used throughout most of 2020 to evaluate special events. It may be difficult to do
so, given the uncertainty about the state of public health measures several
months from now. If the City Council feels a review should happen as the event
approaches, the City Council could at that time direct staff to place it on an
agenda to be modified or canceled.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the requests as outlined above for Summerfest on June 5, including the
waiver of fees.
2. Approve the requests for street and parking lot closures, the Temporary
Obstruction Permit and the beer permit, but require reimbursement to the City for
lost parking meter revenue, a blanket Vending License, and the usage of
electricity.
3. Do not approve the requests.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Campustown Action Association’s Summerfest has been a successful event, and staff
feels comfortable that the event will continue to be successful this year. In addition, it is
important that CAA is successful in promoting the Campustown area though events and
activities like Summerfest.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, thereby approving the requests as outlined above for Summerfest on
June 5, including the waiver of fees.
3
4
5
1
ITEM # ___10___
DATE 04-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: REQUEST FROM STORY THEATER COMPANY FOR SECOND
AMENDMENT TO 2020 COTA FALL SPECIAL PROJECT GRANT
CONTRACT
BACKGROUND:
The Commission on the Arts (COTA) provides funding for arts organizations to conduct
special projects through two grant processes each year. For the period between July 1
and December 31, 2020, Story Theater Company was awarded a COTA special project
grant in the amount of $725 for the production of “Frozen, Jr.”
In 2020, Story Theater Company requested a contract amendment due to the
postponement of shows. On October 27, 2020, the City Council approved COTA’s
recommendation to amend the special grant contract to extend the contract term to
June 30, 2021.
THIS ACTION:
In March 2021, Story Theater Company contacted City staff and indicated that the
planned show would not take place until Fall 2021 due to logistical issues. As this is
outside the grant period, the organization requested either an extension of the
grant timeline or permission to use the funds for an alternative show that will take
place in June 2021.
On April 6, COTA discussed the request and recommended that the City Council
approve an amendment to the contract to allow Story Theater Company to use the
funds for a replacement show, Young Sherlock.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve amendment #2 to Story Theater Company’s Fall 2020 Special Project
Grant to allow the substitution of Young Sherlock for the original planned
production.
2. Do not approve the request and allow the contracts to expire on June 30, 2021
without funds being drawn down.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Story Theater Company has committed to produce an alternative show, Young
Sherlock, within the timeframe of the contract. Approving the alternative show allows the
2
organization to access the approved funding. COTA has discussed this situation and
recommends the approval of the request.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1 as described above.
3
SECOND AMENDMENT TO
CONTRACT FOR ARTS FUNDING
THIS AGREEMENT, made and entered into ________________, 2021, by and
between the CITY OF AMES, IOWA, a municipal corporation organized and existing
pursuant to the laws of the State of Iowa (hereinafter sometimes called "City") and
Story Theater Company (hereinafter called "Provider"); for funding of said Provider up
to and including $725.00;
WITNESSETHS THAT:
WHEREAS, the City of Ames has, by its City Council acting in open and regular
session, and through the Commission on the Arts, entered into an Agreement with the
Provider for the purpose of hosting performances of “Frozen, Jr.” at the Ames City
Auditorium; and
WHEREAS, the duration of the Agreement for these services was originally from July 1,
2020 through December 31, 2020; and
WHEREAS, on October 27, 2020, the City Council approved an amendment to this
Agreement to extend its duration to June 30, 2021; and
WHEREAS, the Provider is unable to present the original show, “Frozen, Jr.” within the
extended timeframe and has requested that an alternative show, “Young Sherlock” be
produced instead;
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereto have agreed and do agree as follows:
I: AMENDMENT TO SCOPE OF SERVICES
Article II (Scope of Services), of the Agreement is hereby superseded by the following
paragraph:
The provider shall use the funds for the following activities:
Host performances of Young Sherlock at the Ames City Auditorium.
II: REMAINING TERMS OF AGREEMENT
The remaining terms of the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.
4
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties hereto have, by their authorized representatives,
set their hand and seal as of the date first above written.
CITY OF AMES, IOWA ATTEST:
BY______________________________ __________________________________
John Haila, Mayor Diane Voss, City Clerk
Story Theater Company
BY______________________________
Authorized Representative
Print Name:
_________________________________
1
ITEM # ___11__
DATE 04-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: AUTHORIZATION TO USE COTA GRANT FUNDS FOR AMES
COMMUNITY ARTS COUNCIL MOBILE STAGE PROJECT
BACKGROUND:
In 2020, the City Council approved a Commission on the Arts (COTA) Spring 2021
Special Project Grant for Ames Community Arts Council (ACAC) in the amount of $953.
The grant was for ACAC to deploy a mobile musical stage to provide entertainment
programming to neighborhoods throughout Ames. ACAC’s proposal was to organize the
music performances and provide them for various neighborhoods during the spring.
In March 2021, ACAC indicated that the costs for the mobile stage were significantly
higher than anticipated. Instead of costing $1,000 - $3,000 as originally expected,
ACAC received estimates of approximately $6,500. Therefore, ACAC requested that,
in addition to the special project grant funding to operate the program, COTA
allows ACAC to use a portion of its FY 2020/21 COTA Annual Grant to construct
and outfit the mobile stage.
ACAC’s FY 2020/21 Annual Grant was approved in the amount of $11,288. The
relevant portion of the scope of services for this annual grant contract states this
amount is to allow “[…] ACAC to promote cultural events, recognize excellence through
annual Arts Awards, offer small grants for Arts in Education, and provide opportunities
for artists to promote their work to the Ames community.”
COTA discussed ACAC’s request on April 5, 2021. COTA expressed concern about
its ability to authorize the use of COTA funds to support the entire construction of
the mobile stage rather than to provide operational support, due to the fact that
COTA’s special project grant and annual grant criteria prohibit the use of COTA
funds for capital expenses and permanent supplies and equipment.
The prohibitions on the use of COTA grant funds for capital expenses and permanent
supplies and equipment are self-imposed. COTA members expressed support for
ACAC’s request and recommended that the City Council waive the capital and
permanent equipment prohibitions of the COTA grants to allow the purchase to
proceed. If approved, no additional funds would be provided to ACAC beyond what
have been already budgeted and awarded.
2
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Authorize staff to allow Ames Community Arts Council to receive reimbursement
for construction expenses related to the mobile music stage under ACAC’s
existing FY 2020/21 Spring Special Project Grant and FY 2020/21 Annual Grant.
2. Do not authorize Ames Community Arts Council to utilize its Annual Grant funds
for construction of the project.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Ames Community Arts Council was originally provided special project grant funding to
produce the performances that would take place using this mobile music stage. Cost
estimates have greatly exceeded ACAC’s expectations, and ACAC is requesting to
access its other COTA grant funds to complete this project. There is no increase in the
total City funds to be provided to ACAC. COTA has recommended approval of this
request.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1 as described above.
1
ITEM ___12__
DATE 4-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT BETWEEN IOWA STATE FIRE
MARSHAL FIRE SERVICE TRAINING BUREAU AND CITY OF AMES
BACKGROUND:
From 1966 to 2020, Ames was home to the Iowa Fire Service Training Bureau (FSTB), a
division of the Iowa State Fire Marshal’s Office. The proximity of the FSTB provided
numerous mutually beneficial trainings and educational opportunities for both the Ames
Fire Department and the FSTB. A great partnership has been formed over the years, with
resource sharing between the FSTB’s facilities and Ames Fire Department apparatus and
firefighters, resulting in cost savings for both organizations. In July 2020, the FSTB
relocated to Camp Dodge in Johnston, Iowa.
FSTB continues to hold its State Fire School, which is one of the most visible and highly
attended training opportunities within the State of Iowa for the Fire Service industry. The
event takes place in Ames in partnership with the Ames Fire Department. This event
brings hundreds of firefighters and fire service vendors from Iowa and neighboring states
to Ames for a weekend full of fire related classroom and hands-on training. The dates of
this year’s State Fire School are July 17 – 18.
The FSTB previously utilized two locations for the weekend-long training: 1) The former
training grounds previously rented from ISU located on Haber Road, and 2) The Scheman
Building. With the FTSB’s recent relocation to Camp Dodge, the FSTB no longer has
access to the ISU training grounds and is asking permission to utilize the City’s Public
Safety Training Site, located at 309 Carnegie Avenue, for some of the hands-on training
evolutions. Those training evolutions include: Search and Rescue, Car Fires, Vertical
Ventilation, and Vehicle Extrication Training.
A Hold Harmless Agreement has been drafted to facilitate the use of the City’s Public
Safety Training Site by the FSTB (Attachment A). It should be noted that there will be no
additional costs to the City for use of the City’s Public Safety Training Site by the FSTB.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the Hold Harmless Agreement between Iowa State Fire Marshal Fire
Service Training Bureau and the City of Ames.
2. Refer the Hold Harmless Agreement to staff for revisions.
3. Do not approve the Hold Harmless Agreement and do not allow outside agencies
to use the City’s Public Safety Training Site.
2
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The partnership between the Ames Fire Department and the FSTB has been mutually
beneficial for both organizations for decades. Ames Firefighters are provided multiple
training opportunities and experiences through the FSTB for little to no cost. Additionally,
the FSTB’s State Fire School brings hundreds of firefighters from around the State to
Ames for the weekend, which brings economic opportunities for local businesses and
hotels.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
ITEM # ___13__
DATE: 04-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: FIELD TECHNICAL SERVICES FOR STEAM ELECTRIC PLANT UNIT 8
TURBINE-GENERATOR MAJOR OVERHAUL
BACKGROUND:
The Unit 8 turbine-generator is planned to undergo a major overhaul this summer in which
it will be disassembled, inspected, repaired, and reassembled. The turbine-generator for
Unit 8 was manufactured by General Electric (GE) and placed into service in 1982. The
major overhaul of the turbine-generator is necessary to replace worn parts and inspect
the turbine and generator for repairs that may be needed to prevent unplanned outages,
prevent costly turbine-generator damage, and improve the reliability and efficiency of the
unit.
Major turbine-generator overhauls are generally performed every 5-10 years, usually
based upon accumulated hours of operation and/or the number of startups and
shutdowns, but also may be necessary due to the emergence of some issue or problem
with the turbine or generator that needs to be addressed. As a general rule, the greater
number of hours of operation and the number of startups and shutdowns, the more urgent
the need to perform a major overhaul. The most recent major overhaul of Unit 8 turbine-
generator occurred in 2013.
GE is the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) of Unit 8’s turbine-generator. Because
of the knowledge and experience required to disassemble, inspect, repair, and
reassemble the turbine-generator correctly, a field service technician from GE will be
needed onsite during the overhaul to oversee all facets of the project. As the OEM, GE
has the technical reference information and drawings necessary to support the overhaul
and repair of the turbine-generator, much of which is proprietary and not available outside
of GE. Therefore, GE is exclusively recommended by City staff as the sole source
provider of the field technical services needed to support the major overhaul of Unit 8
turbine-generator.
The approved Capital Improvements Plan includes the following funding for the Unit 8
Turbine Generator Overhaul.
2019/20 Materials/Parts $1,000,000
2019/20 Construction $1,650,000
2019/20 GE Tech Support $ 350,000
TOTAL $3,000,000
It is assumed that GE’s onsite technical services will be needed for 8 weeks, 6 days a
week, and 10 hours per day. The proposed estimated price of GE’s technical services is
$242,800.
Contracts awarded to date on this project are:
Argo (Parts) (City to pay sales tax) $1,077,109.00
Sales tax $ 74,711.63
MD&A (Parts) (Sales tax included) $ 148,606.16
Power Plant Services (Parts) (Sales tax included) $ 139,388.20
Burns & McDonnell (engineering) - $ 41,000.00
Blade Runner (Contractor) (City to pay sales tax) $ 699,800.00
Sales tax TBD after completion of work
General Electric (this Council action) $ 242,800.00
TOTAL $2,423,414.99
ALTERNATIVES:
1. a. Waive the City’s Purchasing Policies and Procedures for competitive
bidding of professional services and approve GE as the sole source
provider of field technical services for the major overhaul of Unit 8’s turbine-
generator.
b. Award a contract to provide field technical services for the overhaul of Unit
8 turbine-generator to General Electric Steam Services, Inc., Midlothian,
Virginia, in the estimated amount of $242,800.
2. Direct staff to solicit competitive proposals for field technical services for the Unit
8 turbine-generator overhaul from firms other than the OEM of the Unit 8 turbine-
generator.
3. Do not contract for field technical services for Unit 8 turbine-generator overhaul.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
This project will complete the overhaul of the Unit 8 turbine-generator. It is crucial to
perform this work in order to maintain the reliability and efficiency of the unit. General
Electric is the original equipment manufacturer of the turbine generator and field technical
services provide by GE during the work onsite is critical to the success of the project.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1 as stated above.
1
ITEM#: 14
DATE: 04-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: TEAGARDEN AREA LETTER OF MAP REVISION AMENDMENT NO. 1
TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
BACKGROUND:
In response to the floods of 1993, the City installed a 72-inch storm sewer along Crystal
Street and Opal Drive to the outlet at Jewel Drive in the cunette, which runs in
backyards through the neighborhood. More recently, additional stormwater detention
basins have been built on Airport property and as part of the Bricktown development
west of S. Duff Avenue.
All of these improvements have modified the stormwater patterns of the area so that
larger flood events flow within the 72-inch storm sewer. Therefore, a Letter of Map
Revision (LOMR) application was pursued through FEMA to revise the flood map limits
between S Duff Ave/Crystal Street and Jewel Drive to designate that the 1% annual
chance (100 year) flood is contained within the pipe. Map 1 shows the existing flood
limits and storm sewer in the area and Map 2 shows the proposed flood limits.
In August 2019, staff administratively approved a professional services agreement with
WHKS & Co. to prepare for and submit documentation to FEMA for the LOMR. The
original contract was in an amount not to exceed $35,000.
As the consultant for FEMA reviewed the application, further information was requested,
including additional drainage modeling. The additional information and modeling were
part of the second submittal to FEMA, which was assigned to a second reviewer. That
person identified more requests including proving that the community was not in
violation of FEMA standards and requiring additional storm sewer modeling.
The reviewers now have no additional questions nor comments and staff has been able
to publish a Notice in the newspaper as well as send certified mail to area residents
about the proposed map changes for public comment. All inquiries to date have been
questions related to flood insurance and do not impact the proposed map changes.
The work to prepare these changes requires an additional $9,000 to be added to the
professional services agreement with WHKS & Co. Because this exceeds 20% of the
original contract amount, City Council approval is required per the City’s Purchasing
Policies and Procedures.
2
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve Amendment No. 1 to the Professional Services Agreement for
Teagarden Area Letter of Map Revision with WHKS & Co. of Ames, IA in the
amount of $9,000.
2. Direct staff to negotiate changes to Amendment No. 1 for Teagarden Area
LOMR.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
This service amendment will cover the additional work required by FEMA in order to
complete these flood map revisions.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as noted above.
AMENDMENT NO. 1
TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
WHEREAS, City of Ames, Iowa (Client) and WHKS & Co. (WHKS) executed a Professional Services
Agreement dated August 14, 2019 for certain engineering services for Teagarden Area Letter of Map
Revision (LOMR) (Project), and
WHEREAS, the Agreement described a scope of services and was based on completion of certain
services, and
WHEREAS, the Client has requested additional Engineering Services for the Project as described in
more detail below, and
NOW THEREFORE, the Client and WHKS hereby agree the amended compensation for services shall
be modified as described below.
Scope of Services
WHKS shall perform the following additional described services for the Client:
WHKS updated the model and addressed comments from the first submittal to FEMA under the base
agreement. This amendment is for the subsequent items performed based on comments from the
second submittal to FEMA, which differed from the first round of comments. These items were not
included in the base agreement. They include: multiple modifications to the hydraulic model including
redoing the model for the revised FIRM which was published during the second review process,
attendance at meetings with FEMA’s consultant, updating submittal items, coordinating with Iowa
DNR, and drafting public notice letters and newspaper publication. It should be noted that these
modifications did not alter the end results, revised flood plain limits, of our original submittal to FEMA.
The LOMR has been accepted and no additional services are expected.
Basis of Compensation
For the services described above, the Client shall remunerate WHKS as follows:
Billed Hourly with a Not-to-Exceed Fee of $9,000.00 including Expenses.
Executed this day of April, 2021
City of Ames WHKS & CO.
By: By:
Printed Name: Printed Name: Derek J. Thomas, P.E.
Title: Title: Vice President
Sources: Esri, HERE, Garmin, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan,METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), (c) OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community, City of Ames, IA
MArcGIS Web Map
Map 1 Existing
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EXISTING FLOOD HAZARD AREAS
1% Annual Chance Flood Hazard
Regulatory Floodway
0.2% Annual Chance Flood Hazard
ÜTIE-IN TO UNAMED CREEK B
MAP 2: PROPOSED REVISIONS
I herby certify that this engineering document was prepared by me or under my direct personal supervision and that I am a duly Licensed Professional Engineer under the laws of the State of Iowa.
Nathan W. Anderson Date
License No. 18920
My license renewal date id December 31, 2021Pages or sheets covered by this seal:
1% ANNUAL CHANCE FLOOD CONTAINED WITHIN UNDERGROUND PIPE
DOWNSTREAM TIE-IN SECTION "F" & UPTHROUGH JUNCTION AREA
FLOODWAY DISCHARGES TO SURFACE
PROPOSED FLOOD HAZARD AREAS
MODEL FLOW LINE
CROSS SECTIONS
CONTAINED FLOODWAY (SEWER)
REVISED 1% CHANCE ANNUAL FLOODWAY
REVISED 1% ANNUAL CHANCE FLOODPLAIN
REVISED 0.2% ANNUAL FLOODPLAIN
SECTION LABEL CORRESPONDSTO ORIGINAL FIS. ADDITIONALSECTIONS ADDED.
Vertical Datum: NAVD88
1/24/2021
1
ITEM # 15
DATE: 04-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: AUDITORIUM HVAC REPLACEMENT
BACKGROUND:
The City Auditorium is currently served by a HVAC system consisting of a fan and
heating coils from when the building was built in 1938 and a condenser and cooling
coils that were added in 1990. Over the last several years there have been ongoing
maintenance issues with the system. It was determined that the best course of action
would be to replace the system and modernize it for ease of use and maintenance.
A mechanical engineering firm was hired and has completed plans and specifications.
The plan calls for the removal of the existing fan and coils and replacement with a
rooftop unit that would provide the heating and cooling for the Auditorium. A rooftop
unit would allow for easier access for maintenance and free up existing space to
become needed storage for the Auditorium.
This project was originally bid this past winter. The project at that time only received
one bid that was significantly higher than the estimate, and on January 12, 2021, City
Council rejected the project and directed staff to modify it for a future bid. The
consultant talked to local contractors and received responses that the timing of the
project was the main issue with receiving bids. The project plans have been modified
by removing items related to duct work and access into the Auditorium ceiling and by
adding two alternates for removal of the existing system and including heating and
cooling to the stage area.
The estimated construction cost of the revised plans and specifications is $342,870.
This does not include the alternate for the heating and cooling in the lobby. Engineering
and construction administration costs are estimated at $32,000 bringing the total project
cost $374,870. Funding for this project will be in the amount of $400,000 and comes
from one-time savings from the FY 2019/20 budget. The three alternates will be
considered when bids are received.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the plans and specifications for the Auditorium HVAC Replacement
project and establish May 12, 2021, as the bid due date with May 25, 2021, as
the date for report of bids.
2. Do not approve this project.
2
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
These revised plans and specifications address the HVAC needs in the Auditorium and
provide additional flexibility to scale the project to a level that meets the budget. By
approving these plans and specifications the Auditorium will receive a much-needed
HVAC system upgrade by the end of the 2021 calendar year.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
ITEM # ___16__
DATE: 04-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: CONTRACT RENEWAL OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FOR POWER
PLANT FIRE RISK MITIGATION
BACKGROUND:
This contract allows the Power Plant to engage an engineering firm with fire protection
expertise, or alternately a fire protection firm, to act as the Owner’s Engineer/
Designer/Representative for various fire risk mitigation studies, for the preparation of
specific fire system and installation design and specifications, and for fire system
installation management, inspection and testing.
The scope of work requires the engineering firm to: (1) be the engineer for the areas listed
above, (2) develop plans and specifications, (3) provide detailed cost estimates, (4)
provide lists of potential bidders, (5) evaluate contractors, (6) carry out contract
management, and (7) perform field installation administration as needed, required, and
requested for each project. The selected engineering firm is not allowed to bid on
any part of the actual fire protection system installation. The engineering firm will
only be paid for worked performed during the fiscal year.
On June 13, 2017, City Council awarded a contract to Burns & McDonnell Engineering
Co., Inc, Chesterfield, MO, for the Professional Services for Fire Risk Mitigation contract.
This contract has the option for the City to renew in one-year increments for up to four
additional years. The period from July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022, is the fourth
and final potential renewal for the Professional Services for Power Plant Fire Risk
Mitigation.
Staff believes that in order to accomplish the needed protection in the most economical
way possible, the assistance of a specialized engineering firm is needed to prioritize and
establish a sensible path to react to individual recommendations of our insurance carrier.
The amount for this contract renewal is $50,000. Funding is available from the FY 2021/22
Capital Improvements Plan in the Power Plant Fire Protection System Project.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the contract renewal with Burns & McDonnell, Chesterfield, MO, for the
Professional Services for Power Plant Fire Risk Mitigation contract for the one-
year period from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022, in an amount not-to-exceed
$50,000.
2. Do not renew the agreement and instruct staff to seek new competitive proposals.
2
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
This work is needed for fire risk mitigation (fire detection, alarm, & suppression) to protect
critical plant equipment. If not done, a loss event resulting from a fire could be catastrophic
because electricity production could stop. It is cost-effective for the Power Plant to have
a company under contract to provide these services because of their specialized
knowledge of current National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) code requirements and
of mitigation equipment currently utilized in this industry.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1 as stated above.
1
ITEM #___17_
DATE: 4/13/21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR ANNUAL CONCRETE & ASPHALT
CRUSHING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2021/22.
BACKGROUND:
This contract is for crushing concrete and asphalt for FY 2021/22. Salvaged and
stockpiled concrete and asphalt from various street projects will be crushed to be reused
for other projects. The estimated total cost is based on 8,500 tons.
The following bids were received on March 30, 2021:
BIDDER EST. COST
EXTENSION EXTENSION
Maxim Trucking & Materials $69,250 $75,000 $80,750
The approved FY 2021/22 operating budget for the Public Works Department includes
$60,000 for concrete and asphalt crushing. The bid documents include unit prices for
various sizes of crushed materials. Because the estimated cost exceeds the approved
budget, adjustments will be made in the quantity of material crushed so that the final
expenditures do not exceed the available funding.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Award the contract for the 2021/22 concrete and asphalt crushing to Maxim
Trucking & Materials, Pella, IA, in the amount of $69,250.
2. Reject this bid and attempt to obtain the required services on an as-needed
basis.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The concrete and asphalt crushing allows for reuse of a waste product from street and
utility maintenance operations that aligns with the City Council’s goal of Environmental
Sustainability. By repurposing the material through crushing, there is a reduction in the
amount of aggregate purchased from the quarry.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
ITEM #__18__
DATE: 4/13/21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR PURCHASE OF ROCK SALT
REQUIREMENTS FOR 2021/22 ICE CONTROL PROGRAM
BACKGROUND:
This contract is to furnish rock salt for the 2021/22 Ice Control Program. Materials are to
be delivered as requested by the City throughout the winter season. The FY 2021/22
budget includes $190,000 for rock salt. On March 31, 2021, the following bids were
received:
ESTIMATED
BIDDER UNIT PRICE TOTAL COST
Independent Salt Co., Kanopolis, KS $76.08/ton $190,200
Central Salt LLC, Elgin, IL $76.59/ton $191,475
The estimated total cost is based on 2,500 tons. The current contract is with Independent
Salt Co. at $76.08/ton.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Award a contract for the 2021/22 rock salt requirements to Independent Salt Co.,
Kanopolis, KS, in the amount of $76.08 per ton, to be delivered as requested by
the City throughout the winter season.
2. Reject all bids and attempt to purchase rock salt on an as-needed basis.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The approved FY 2021/22 operating budget includes $190,000 for snow and ice control
chemicals. The estimated cost of this contract, based on a quantity of 2,500 tons, is
$190,200. The City will be billed based on the actual quantity delivered. If usage exceeds
the budgeted amount, the operating budget will be amended using savings from other
street activities.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
ITEM # ___19__
DATE: 04-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: CONTRACT RENEWAL FOR ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION LINE
CLEARANCE PROGRAM
BACKGROUND:
This contract includes nearly all of the requirements for tree trimming services for Electric
Services as part of the Line Clearance Program. On May 28, 2019, City Council awarded
a contract to Wright Tree Services, Des Moines, IA, for these tree trimming services. This
contract contained the option to renew the contract for two additional one-year periods.
The period from July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022, is the second and last renewal
period.
The contract includes a rate provision which increases rates at fixed percentages above
the previous fiscal year contracted rates at time of renewal. The bid from Wright Tree
Services included increases for this contract period of 2.75% for labor and 0% for
equipment. The increases were considered during the original evaluation of bids. A
comparison of FY 2020/21 rates and proposed FY 2021/22 rates is shown on Attachment
1.
The benefits of having a contract for these services in place include the following:
1) Consistency of work and quality from a single contractor.
2) Reduction in the City’s exposure to market forces regarding prices and availability
for labor and travel.
3) Saved City staff time obtaining quotes, evaluating bids, and preparing
specifications and other procurement documentation.
The approved operating budget for FY 2021/22 includes $347,378 for this program.
Services provided under this contract are monitored by Electric Services staff to ensure
that expenditures are performed properly and are in accordance with the approved
funding level. Invoices are based on unit prices bid and services received and accepted
by the City.
City staff has been satisfied with Wright Tree Service’s performance in the prior years of
the contract and recommends renewal of the contract.
2
ALTERNATIVES:
1. a. Approve contract renewal for Electric Distribution Line Clearance Program with
Wright Tree Services, Des Moines, IA, for the for the one-year period from July 1,
2021 through June 30, 2022.
b. Approve contract with Wright Tree Services of Iowa and the performance bond in
the amount of $347,378.00.
2. Cancel the renewal of the contract and instruct staff to rebid these services.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
An ongoing tree trimming program helps mitigate the number of customer interruptions
resulting from extreme weather events. Having a yearly contract establishes a fixed price
for performance of the required tree trimming services at the best price, obtained via the
competitive sealed bid process. It has proven to be very cost–effective to have a company
under contract to provide these services.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1 as stated above.
City of Ames, Iowa
Line Clearance Program
FY 2021-2022
LABOR DESCRIPTION
Working Foreman $37.94 $38.97 $40.04 $60.05
Trimmer A $34.73 $35.76 $36.74 $55.11
Trimmer B $31.51 $32.54 $33.43 $50.14
EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION
Hydraulic aerial device
Manual aerial device
Chip truck
Brush Tractor
Truck&Trailer for Brush trac.
Hydro Axe
Truck&Trailer for Hydro Axe.
Pick-up Truck
Power saw
Brush Chipper
Hand pruning equip.
Ropes and body belts
MATERIALS & SUPPLIES
Weedone CB
Garlon 4 per gal
Tree Paint: Maintain A per case
of 12 13 0z.cans
Other supplies Cost plus %
PERCENTAGE OF INCREASE,
OPTIONAL RENEWAL PERIODS
$32.58
$100.32
10%
$10.15
$67.30
$16.58
$64.05
$17.60
$10.37
$0.51
$5.08
BID PRICE
$16.32
Wright Tree Service, Inc.
West Des Moines, IA
HOURLY RATE
RATE PER CREW HOUR
$16.32
Labor FY 2020-2021
Labor FY 2021-2022
Equipment FY 2021-2022 0%
2.50%
2.75%
1
ITEM # ___20_
DATE: 4/13/21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: CONTRACT RENEWAL FOR CUSTODIAL SERVICES AT AMES
PUBLIC LIBRARY
BACKGROUND:
All cleaning and custodial services for Ames Public Library are provided by a third-party
professional cleaning service. The service includes all routine daily cleaning tasks. On
May 28, 2019, the City Council awarded a contract to ABM to provide custodial services
for Ames Public Library for the period of July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2020. ABM
indicated that the hourly rate would be $16.65/hour for the original contract period. The
contract also includes four optional renewal periods.
The period from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022, is the second of four optional
renewal periods. ABM indicated that the hourly rate would be $16.75/hour for this renewal
period. Library staff estimates 5,484 hours of cleaning services for this renewal period,
making the contract total $91,857. This amount matches what is budgeted for this service
in FY 2021/22. These hours are an estimate for budgeting purposes. Payment will be
on an hourly basis for actual hours worked.
On April 30, 2019, two bids were received as follows:
Hourly Rates
Bidder
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Award the contract renewal option for the FY 2021/22 Custodial Services for the
Ames Public Library to ABM, Des Moines, IA in the amount of $91,857.
2. Reject the renewal award and direct staff to re-bid custodial services.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
ABM is providing relatively low-cost custodial services for the Ames Public Library and
ABM’s representatives will work closely with Library staff to ensure high quality results
and accommodate the timing of library activities and public events.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
ITEM # ____21__
DATE: 4/13/2021
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: CONTRACT RENEWAL FOR RIGHT OF WAY TREE TRIMMING &
REMOVAL PROGRAM
BACKGROUND:
The Parks and Recreation Department has a program that requires tree trimming,
removal, and stump grinding to be done annually in the right of way (ROW) by a
contractor.
Specifications for FY 2019/20 were sent to prospective bidders and bids were due April
15, 2019, with a contract amount not to exceed $85,000. Results were as follows:
Pitts Lawn & Tree Service, Huxley, IA $49.50 $2.85
LawnPro LLC, Colo, IA $51.00 $2.95
Finco Tree & Wood Service LLC, Kelley IA $125.00 $4.00
Weiss Tree Service, Inc., Nevada, IA $140.00 $6.00
Arborpro Tree Service LLC, Fort Dodge, IA $225.00 $3.40
Pitts Lawn & Tree Service was the low bid for both Bid Amount Per Crew Hour and the
Stump Grinding Costs. On May 28, 2019, Council awarded a contract to Pitts Lawn &
Tree Service to perform the scope of work. The contract was for the period of July 1,
2019 through June 30, 2020 and included four optional renewal periods.
The period from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022, is the second of four optional
renewal periods. Each renewal period contains a 3% price increase for each of the tree
trimming, removal, and stump grinding services. The estimated cost of this contract
including the 3% increase is $85,000. The approved FY 2021/22 budget includes
$115,000 for tree trimming, removal, and stump grinding services in the ROW.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Award the contract renewal for the FY 2021/22 Tree Trimming & Removal Program
to Pitts Lawn & Tree Service, Huxley, IA, in an amount not to exceed $85,000.
2. Do not award the contract renewal for FY 2021/22 and rebid the Tree Trimming &
Removal Program.
3. Do not award the contract renewal and attempt to purchase tree trimming on an
as-need basis.
2
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Pitts Lawn & Tree Service has been performing tree trimming, removal, and stump
grinding for the City for almost two years. Staff has found Pitts to be reliable and
responsive to service requests. There have been no resident complaints about the
service provided by Pitts. The City Forester monitors the work done by Pitts and if there
is a need for rework, Pitts takes care of it in courteous and timely fashion.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
ITEM#: ____22____
DATE: __04-13-21_
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: CONTRACT RENEWAL FOR RESOURCE RECOVERY HAULING TO
BOONE COUNTY LANDFILL AND RELATED SERVICES
BACKGROUND:
On June 25, 2019, City Council awarded a contract to Waste Management of Ames
(WMA) for hauling to Boone County Landfill and related services for the Resource
Recovery Plant (RRP) during the 2019/20 and 2020/21 fiscal years. WMA was the single
bidder at $14.14/ton with a 3.5% increase each year with three optional renewal periods.
Renewals are contingent upon approval of funding by Council.
This contract includes furnishing equipment and hauling of materials that cannot be
processed into refuse derived fuel (RDF) from RRP to the Boone County Landfill. The
contract is based on a per-ton bid amount with a typical round-trip distance of 36 miles
per trip. There is a provision in the contract to allow longer hauls up to 120 miles round
trip as well as a provision to cancel the contract if this type of service is no longer needed
due to a change in disposal procedures. The approved FY 2021/22 budget includes
$300,000 for this work.
This renewal period is from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022 at $15.15/ton. At
this rate, the annual cost is projected to be approximately $300,000. The contract
price is adjustable monthly throughout the contact period if diesel fuel is at or above $5.00
per gallon or below $2.00 per gallon. This is based on the published index for monthly
diesel fuel prices for the Department of Energy’s (DOE) “Weekly Retail On-Highway
Diesel Prices” for the Midwest region on the first Monday of the month.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the renewal option for FY 2021/22 for hauling and related services for the
Resource Recovery Plant to Waste Management of Ames at the base rate of
$15.15 per ton.
2. Reject the renewal option and re-bid for hauling and related services for the RRP.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Landfill hauling and related services are an important part of RRP operations. Staff has
analyzed the bid renewal and finds it consistent with prior contracts.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
Smart Choice
MEMO
515.239.5105 main
fax
To: Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: City Clerk’s Office
Date: April 13, 2021
Subject: Contract and Bond Approval
There is/are no Council Action Form(s) for Item No(s). 23, 24 and 25. Council approval
of the contract and bond for this/these project(s) is simply fulfilling a State Code
requirement.
/alc
1
ITEM # ____26___
DATE: 04/13/21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: SPLASH PAD LOCATION
BACKGROUND:
Many communities across Iowa and the country have installed splash pads. Over the
years, residents have asked about putting one in Ames. In contrast to the wading pool at
Brookside Park, a splash pad has more play value, does not have standing water, and
does not require staff to be present while it is open. A splash pad project has been
included in the City’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for several years and $300,000 has
been allocated for fiscal year 2020/21.
Staff presented City Council with several water management options at its November 24,
2020 meeting and Council directed staff to pursue a recirculation system for the splash
pad. In order to install a recirculation system, an additional $200,000 would be needed.
This additional funding was secured from General Fund savings in the amended FY
2020/21 City Budget. Design proposals are due April 7 and staff will then select a
consultant. The splash pad is estimated to be open in May 2022.
PROJECT DETAIL:
The project will include the installation of an approximately 4,800 square foot splash pad
with a combination of in-ground and above-ground spray features. It will be designed
with accessibility, inclusiveness, safety, and playability at the forefront. There will be an
activation button for patrons to turn on the features and a timer to limit when the features
are operational. Benches will be included, and shade structures will be added if funding
allows.
It is anticipated the splash pad season of operation will be Memorial Day weekend to
Labor Day. The pad will be open seven days per week with features being operational
approximately 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM. Having the splash pad available for private rentals
will also be discussed in the near future.
LOCATION SELECTION CRITERIA:
When evaluating location criteria, staff looked at what could be measureable and thus
compared as objectively as possible. The following criteria, not in any particular order,
were used to review potential sites:
• Restrooms within 200 feet & clear sight lines (restrooms are required for health
code compliance)
• Out of flood plain
2
• Fits with park philosophy
• Space available
• Relatively flat space
• Parking available
• Visible from road
• Minimize maintenance issues
• Safety
• Community equity
• Easy to access
LOCATION OPTIONS:
The City manages 38 parks. Because permanent restrooms are required for a splash pad
to be constructed, eight City parks are potential options for a splash pad location. These
parks are:
• Ada Hayden Heritage Park
• Bandshell Park
• Brookside Park
• Daley Park
• Emma McCarthy Lee Park
• Inis Grove Park
• Moore Memorial Park
• River Valley Park
Staff reviewed these eight parks with the criteria shown in the table on the next page
3
Park
Restroom w/in
200 Feet – Clear
Out of
Flood
Fits w/ Park
Philosophy
Space
Avail.
Flat
Space
Enough
Parking
Visible
from Road
Minimize
Maint.
Y Y Y Y Y Y/N Y
Y Y Y Y
Y Y Y Y Y
Y Y Y Y Y Y
Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
Y Y Y Y Y Y
Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
Y Y Y Y Y
Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
Based on the criteria, the East Brookside, Inis Grove, and Moore Memorial Park locations were eliminated because the
restroom requirement cannot be met. West Brookside and River Valley Park are in the flood plain and were eliminated. Ada
Hayden Heritage Park is an environmental/conservation area and Bandshell Park is geared for entertainment so both parks
were removed from consideration. Therefore, Emma McCarthy Lee Park and Daley Park remain as potential sites.
Both sites are shown on the following page with the yellow box indicating the potential splash pad location.
4
Emma McCarthy Lee Park Potential Location
Daley Park Potential Location
5
PROS AND CONS OF EACH OF THE FINAL TWO LOCATIONS CONSIDERED:
Both sites have the space available, adequate parking, not in the flood plain, are located
on the west side of town, and have a permanent restroom. The differences between the
two potential locations to be considered are visibility, safety, and accessibility.
A majority of vandalism in the park system occurs when amenities/areas are less visible.
Staff also reviews projects using Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design
(CPTED) principles which focuses on eliminating obstructions and keeping sight lines
open. The location at Daley Park is more in the open and much more visible than at
Emma McCarthy Lee Park.
Safety is a top priority and having a location that is in the open and more visible increases
the safety of the users. The Emma McCarthy Lee location is tucked away which leads to
safety concerns for this site. The fact that there are no sidewalks on Ross Road is a
safety concern for children and/or families wishing to walk or bike to Emma McCarthy Lee
Park.
The lack of sidewalks is also an accessibility concern for those near the park. Daley Park
has sidewalks/paths on both sides of Wilder which helps make the park more accessible.
The off-street parking on the west side of Wilder could be a concern. However, City
Council can be asked to change the off-street parking to the east side of Wilder. The
splash pad will draw people from across Ames, however, staff feels the neighborhood will
use quite often. Utilizing data from the 2020 population projections, below is the number
of children 0-12 years of age near each of these locations.
Number of Children Near Each Park
Within ½ mile Within 1 mile
Emma McCarthy Lee Park 443 1,380
Daley Park 856 1,601
There are almost double the children within ½ mile of Daley Park than Emma McCarthy
Lee Park which makes accessibility very important.
A summary of pros and cons for each potential location is provided below:
Emma McCarthy Lee Park
Pros
• Restroom within 200 feet and clearly visible
• Adequate off-street parking
• Not in the flood plain
• Flat space is available
• Adds an amenity to the west side of Ames
• Has shade
• Trail access from Oakland Street
6
Cons
• Hidden in lower portion of the park
• Not visible from the street
• Number of trees near splash pad will increase maintenance
• No sidewalks on Ross Road is safety concern for children walking to park
Daley Park
Pros
• Restroom within 200 feet and clearly visible
• Visible from the street
• Not in the flood plain
• Flat space is available
• Adds an amenity to the west side of Ames
• Trail access along Wilder and from South Dakota
• Few trees near splash pad minimizes maintenance
Cons
• Small off-street parking lot
• On-street parking is currently on west side of Wilder, which is the side
further from the park (City Council can be asked to change to east side)
• Lacks shade
PUBLIC INPUT:
Two public meetings were held virtually on March 16, 2021 to gather feedback regarding
potentially locating the splash pad at either of the final two location options. The first
meeting focused more on Emma McCarthy Lee Park while the second was geared to
Daley Park. Staff felt both meetings were very positive with good questions asked and
some concerns raised. The notes from each meeting are shown in Attachment A (Emma
McCarthy Lee Park) and Attachment B (Daley Park).
Additionally, Attachment C contains comments received via email and Facebook. Some
of the correspondence with individuals contain several emails so staff responses to those
email strings are included. There was more opposition to the splash pad location at Daley
Park via emails; however, there were a number of comments in favor of Daley Park as
well.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION COMMENTS:
The Parks and Recreation Commission discussed the potential locations at its March 25,
2021 meeting. The Commission commented that it has heard from residents in the past
about having more recreational amenities on the west side of town, so both suggested
locations were favorable. Safety and visibility of the splash pad is important to the
7
Commission. Although parking may be a concern at times at Daley Park, the
Commission voted 6-0 to recommend City Council approve constructing a splash
pad in Daley Park.
The Commission also felt that on-street parking should be moved from the west side to
the east side of Wilder Boulevard from Thackeray Drive to the northern boundary of the
Daley Greenbelt. This is shown in Attachment D. Adding off street parking at Daley Park
in the future was also discussed.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Direct staff to:
a. Proceed with design of a Splash Pad located in Daley Park
b. Prepare an ordinance moving parking from the west side to the east side of
Wilder Boulevard from Thackeray Drive to the northern boundary of the
Daley Greenbelt
2. Direct staff to proceed with design of a Splash Pad located in Emma McCarthy Lee
Park
3. Approve a different location per City Council’s direction
4. Refer to staff for more information.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The construction of a splash pad is a project that most people are in favor of. Where to
place it is where people differ in opinion. Through a process of elimination two potential
locations are being considered.
As is clear from the analysis, no site within the park system is perfect. Pros and cons
have been identified for both potential sites. However, based on visibility, safety, and
accessibility, Daley Park appears to be the better option.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative #1, as described above.
8
ATTACHMENT A
Public Information Meeting
Splash Pad Emma McCarthy Lee Park
Meeting Began: 5:31 PM
Staff Participants: Keith Abraham and Kellee Omlid
Zoom Participants: 13
Abraham went over with the Zoom participants how to participate in the meeting by using the
chat function or clicking the ‘Raise Hand’ icon on their screen.
Abraham gave a presentation which included explanation and visuals of the term splash pad,
the criteria for selecting a potential site, types of water systems for splash pads, a review of the
potential sites, and future dates for the approval process.
Abraham informed the Zoom participants that all 38 parks were considered for this amenity.
Only 8 parks have the permanent restrooms required by the state. Abraham went over how the
8 parks were analyzed with the criteria outlined, and the two parks that fit are Emma McCarthy
Lee Park and Daley Park
Abraham showed the area in each park where this amenity would be placed.
Abraham again explained how to participate in the meeting.
Abraham asked for comments, questions, or concerns.
Wolfe Kliemann ( 3300 Ross Rd)
Generally, he feels there should be a splash pad in Ames. He stated he has some concerns
regarding the narrow road and asked about the expected attendance.
Abraham informed him that at times, no one could be there. At other times there could be 50
people there. On a very hot day there could be 75-100 people there. Abraham said that he does
not expect the traffic to be more than it is in soccer season.
Kliemann asked if this is going to have organized events that would increase people coming at
one time. Abraham said that the people would be spread out over the course of the day.
Kliemann stated that he feels that is good for kids and for the west side of Ames.
Sally C
Thanked Staff for having this session. She states that her property butts up to Emma McCarthy
Lee. She feels McCarthy Lee is a private, quiet park, and Daley is a better fit. Sally also feels that
at Daley park, if the parking lot fills up, people could park in the neighborhood.
9
Abraham said Lee obviously has quite a bit more parking surface than Daley and that staff has
discussed these things.
Andrew asked about traffic, which was already answered.
Jay feels like it would be a good fit for either park.
Anonymous feels like parking could be an issue as tennis players also use the parking lot.
Abraham stated that most tennis lessons are scheduled in the mornings, and the splash pad
hours, though not finalized, would be more like 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Carina asked how long the splash pad will take to build. Abraham stated the contractors will
have until May 1, 2022, to complete the project with opening on Memorial Day of 2022.
Abraham also added that as a part of the design prospective in the Request For Proposal (RFP),
included the pad be accessible and inclusive so that anyone can go in and utilize this amenity.
Haldre is wondering if there is any thought of a broader view of the park. Abraham informed
her that the City Council is working on long range planning. Once they are finished with their
comprehensive plan, the Park Master Plan will be updated.
Chat question regarding the bridge replacement. Abraham informed the viewers that the
bridge work is going to begin on Friday, with pilings going in next week.
Abraham informed the participants that information gathered tonight will go to the Parks &
Recreation Commission on March 25, and then to the City Council in April.
Meeting concluded at 6:11 PM
10
ATTACHMENT B
Public Information Meeting
Splash Pad Daley Park
Meeting Began: 6:31 PM
Staff Participants: Keith Abraham and Kellee Omlid
Zoom Participants: 8
Omlid went over with the Zoom participants how to participate in the meeting by using the
chat function or clicking the ‘Raise Hand’ icon on their screen.
Omlid gave a presentation which included explanation and photos showing what a splash pad
is, the criteria for selecting a potential site, a review of the potential sites, and future dates for
the approval process.
Omlid went over the recirculating system. She explained that it was water treated with
chemicals similar to a swimming pool.
Omlid stated that all 38 parks were considered for this amenity. Only 8 parks have the
permanent restrooms required by the state. Those 8 parks were analyzed with the
criteria outlined, and the two parks that fit are Emma McCarthy Lee Park and Daley Park
Omlid showed the area in each park where this amenity would be placed.
Abraham mentioned that the potential schedule of operation was Memorial Day to Labor Day,
and the hours have yet to be determined.
Omlid went over the two ways to provide feedback.
No raised hands or questions.
Abraham says it will be about 5,000 square feet.
Jim Wolter asked if there will be lighting and/or fencing.
Omlid informed him that there is no lighting or fencing involved at this time.
Abraham states it is open to everyone, a free activity for people to utilize.
Jim has concerns about the occasional acts of vandalism in the park, such as broken glass or
other concerns.
11
Abraham informed him the facility would have to be closed for cleanup should something like
that happen.
Jim also asked about shade structures and benches.
Omlid stated the budget is $500,000, so depending on the costs, staff is looking at shade
structures.
Jim wanted to clarify if it was two splash pads, one in each park or just one splash pad.
Abraham stated that it would be one splash pad.
Denise feels it will be a great addition to the park. There are many kids in the neighborhood
that are of the age to utilize the park.
Jim wondered about the facility in the winter, asking if it is a completely flat space in the winter
or are the features left up.
Abraham said that Staff has not determined if they were taking it down each season at this
time.
Abraham gave his contact information. This information will also be on the web.
Abraham stated that no one had asked about parking. Currently there is parking for about 20
cars. There could be overflow into the neighborhood.
On-street parking is on the west side of Wilder. With the parking on the west side, there is a
safety concern as people will have to cross the street to get to the splash pad. There is a
potential that Council could be asked to switch some on-street parking from the west side to
the east side in the area where it does not impede the fire hydrants.
Denise stated that with the new trail, parking would be available from Thackeray.
Meeting ended at 6:59 PM.
12
ATTACHMENT C
SPLASH PAD LOCATION COMMENTS
Via Email and Facebook
Carr Pool would be an excellent choice and respectful of past roots.
I hope you put Carr Pool in your selection sites.
Bonnie Bryant
1532 Glendale Av
Bonnie,
Thanks for the suggestion!
Carr Park is not on the list as it does not have a functional restroom which is a
requirement from the Iowa Department of Health.
Have a great day!
Keith
Historically, it has always had a functioning restroom. Are you ghosting the city of Ames
citizens?
Respectfully,
Bonnie Bryant
Bonnie,
I'm not sure what you mean when you ask "Are you ghosting the city of Ames citizens?"
Also, there has not been a functioning restroom at Carr Park since 2010 when the
bathhouse was closed.
Thanks!
Keith
Hi Keith,
I live on Frost Drive which is adjacent to Daley Park. I received a postcard in the mail
about the splash pad.
13
Is there any information you can share with me about the size of the splash pad and
how deep the water would be?
Is it something small like the splash pad that used to be at Brookside Park?
Or is it something much larger and more elaborate?
Thank you,
Lori Whitmer
Lori,
Thanks for reaching out!
The splash pad has not been designed yet but the general size would be approximately
4,800 square feet. To give you an idea of size, this would be about the size of a
basketball court.
The pad would be zero-depth which means there would be no standing water which is
in contrast to the current wading pool at Brookside Park.
This pad would have a combination of in-ground and above ground water
elements. The elements would be on a timer so they would only come on during a
defined time frame (i.e. 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM). There would also be an activation switch
so the elements would only come on if someone activates the features which would
then stay on for a certain amount of time and then shut off. The activation switch could
then be pressed again to get the water flowing. I have attached a few photos below to
give you a better idea of what it may look like.
Please contact me if you have any further questions.
Keith
Thanks for the info. I appreciate it.
Would it be located east of the small basketball court that is there now, or would that
have to be removed?
Would the parking lot need to be enlarged to avoid street parking?
Are they looking at any other parks besides Daley as a location site?
It seems like kind of a fun idea, but the park just seems small for it, assuming that it
becomes popular within the community.
14
~ Lori
Lori,
It would be located west of the basketball court which would remain.
Initially, overflow parking would be on the street and we would monitor how that is
working. There is no plan or funding to increase the parking at this time so if we feel it
is necessary, we would need to program that into our Capital Improvement Plan.
The other location being considered is Emma McCarthy Lee Park. We will explain how
we got to these two parks at our meeting tomorrow night if you plan on attending.
The park is 15.5 acres and the splash pad will be just of 1/10 of an acre so we feel there
is enough space to accommodate this amenity. Additionally, we are trying to put
amenities throughout the community and feel there is something needed on the west
side of Ames.
I appreciate your questions so please reach out if you have more. Thanks and have a
great night!
Keith
Good evening,
I tried to call in for the zoom meeting on the telephone,
And the zoom ID for the meeting listed on the postcard was not supported, so I tried a
different ID I got off of a link and it said it didn't exist.
Not sure what happened maybe you can shed some light?
Thanks
Keith,
Thank you so much for sending that. I very much appreciate it.
My two questions are:
1. Would somebody be checking the splash pad every morning before opening to
endure no vandalism had occurred overnight? (Glass etc)
2. Above ground features vs in ground features ( again a vandalism concern of youth
hanging onto and climbing on the above ground features) or are the above ground
features very durable and sturdy so it's not a concern?
15
As Jim mentioned on the call, I do agree that we will need some adequate shade
options.
Thank you
~ Lori
Lori,
Glad you were able to view the meeting!
Staff will be checking the splash pad in the morning before it opens, at the end of the
day after it closes, and periodically throughout the day.
The above ground features are sturdy and should withstand kids hanging and climbing
on them.
Have a great day!
Keith
Thanks for answering all my questions.
I think the splash pad sounds like something the community would enjoy.
~Lori
Hello!
I just wanted to give some input regarding the location of a new splash pad in Ames.
Of these two locations, I prefer having it at Daley. There's not much shade there (at
Daley) however it's also not incredibly buggy like Emma McCarthy Lee often is during
the summer. I also don't love going to EML since the bridge (connecting the
neighborhood to campus) was washed out and wasn't replaced. Due to how isolated it
feels now (in the lower part of EML) it's often hard for me to feel comfortable there
without that busy thoroughfare and all the joggers/bikers/dog walkers constantly coming
by.
Thanks,
Renee Keinert
I will add your comment to the list.
16
I did want to let you know that the McCarthy Lee Bridge Replacement Project has been
underway since it washed out. The have been studies done to map water flow and
studies on the impact a new bridge would have on wildlife in the area.
Once those were complete, a bridge was designed that meets all safety standards,
shows consideration for natural area, and meets flood plain specifications and
regulations.
Once the design process was complete, the DNR had to sign off on the design.
Once the DNR signed off, we had to wait for FEMA to sign off on the project.
We had been waiting on FEMA but now they have signed off on the project, so I think
construction is underway or should be shortly.
Katie Kole
Tried numerous times to get into the zoom mtg on the above subject as well as the
phone number and still wasn't able to join.
I would like to let you know I do not want that Splash Pad at Daley Park. There isn't
room and it isn't needed. This is Ames Premier Park and it doesn't need this type of
item. This park is widely used by the neighborhood as well as gatherings of all types of
residents and the above item would take away from the peace & quiet of the area.
I have lived here for over 25 years and do not want this type of park item installed.
Thank you,
Beth McPhail
5458 Frost Drive
Thank you for sending the slides from last night's meeting.
Again, I wish to convey I don't want this type of feature added to Daley Park. It would
ruin the entire park from being family & neighborhood friendly as well as be an eyesore
and be a target for vandalism . It would also be a nightmare for parking since the park
has limited parking and force people to park along Wilder Blvd which isn't zoned for
parking on both sides of the street.
As I have said in my previous email this park is in use basically all year round with the
renovated shared pathway, families enjoying the playground equipment and the green
space to run & play, toss footballs/baseballs, kick soccer balls as well as fly kites.This
park also is used by a lot of church groups during the last Spring and most of the
Summer and early Fall to host their get-togethers, and I don't honestly feel this
proposed feature would damage the total aesthetics of the park.
17
I also feel this type of feature wouldn't be utilized to the best of its ability since there
aren't a multitude of children in this area. Please consider Brookside Park since that
park is centrally located, has the parking space and is easily accessible by car or bike
and I believe it would add to the current park features, since I recall this park has a
splash pad or wading area pool before the restroom fire.
Please pass along this email as well as the one I sent last night, Tuesday, March 16th
to you expressly not wanting this proposed feature.
I would also like to be contacted or made aware of when another public meeting will be
held on this issue or when the Parks Commissioners will be meeting.
Thank you,
Beth McPhail
5458 Frost Drive
Hi, Keith —
Regarding the proposed splash pad to Daley Park...
• Where in the park would it be located?
• Are there plans to increase the parking lot size?
• I’m very concerned about the traffic on Wilder. At all times of day, you can
witness cars speeding in both directions on Wilder. Because the park is near a
creek, approaching cars from both the south and north are coming downhill
toward the park, which I suppose contributes to their speed. It’s a long stretch of
road without any stop signs for Wilder. There’s rarely any traffic enforcement,
even though I’ve tried calling in my concerns in the past. I’ve also noticed cars
driving down the middle of the road, almost on the left side of the road. The
splash pad will increase pedestrian traffic going toward the park, as well as
automobile traffic. I would like to see some modifications and improved traffic
control in this area to keep everyone safe.
• I walk through the park frequently. There seems to be a lot of litter and garbage
on the ground. I requested the placement of a garbage can near the basketball
court but that has not happened. With College Creek bordering the park, any
litter on the ground will likely end up in the creek, eventually, causing problems
for birds and aquatic life. I understand this is a human behavior issue, but what
structural improvements and changes can be made to discourage litter?
• In addition to the litter, there are a lot of people who seem to think the park is an
open range dog park. That makes it hard to walk through the green space
thanks to all the dog poop they leave behind. That should be fun for patrons of
the splash pad to walk through in their bare feet and flip flops!
I’m not opposed to the splash pad. Sounds like a nice feature. But I’d like these issues
to be addressed to help ensure it’s safe, accessible, and not a drain on the
environment. Thanks for the opportunity to ask questions and provide input.
Sallie Nostwich
18
5422 Frost Drive
snostwich@aol.com
Sallie,
I apologize for not being able to get into the meeting on Tuesday! We had six people
join us and gave us feedback. I have attached the slides we used for your review and
below is a link to the presentation so you can hear more about the project.
Daley Park - https://youtu.be/eVJbhw35--w
Here are your questions and my responses:
Where in the park would it be located?
o The splash pad would be located west of the basketball pad. There
is a picture in the attachment showing the location.
• Are there plans to increase the parking lot size?
o We have discussed this but it is not included in the current
project. We will ask City Council to change the on-street parking
Wilder in front of the park (from Thackery north to the creek) from
the west side of the street to the east side of the street. The parking
lot could be increased in the future if needed.
• I’m very concerned about the traffic on Wilder. At all times of day, you can
witness cars speeding in both directions on Wilder. Because the park is near a
creek, approaching cars from both the south and north are coming downhill
toward the park, which I suppose contributes to their speed. It’s a long stretch of
road without any stop signs for Wilder. There’s rarely any traffic enforcement,
even though I’ve tried calling in my concerns in the past. I’ve also noticed cars
driving down the middle of the road, almost on the left side of the road. The
splash pad will increase pedestrian traffic going toward the park, as well as
automobile traffic. I would like to see some modifications and improved traffic
control in this area to keep everyone safe.
o I will discuss this with the City’s Traffic Engineer to see what ideas
he has to address this topic.
• I walk through the park frequently. There seems to be a lot of litter and garbage
on the ground. I requested the placement of a garbage can near the basketball
court but that has not happened. With College Creek bordering the park, any
litter on the ground will likely end up in the creek, eventually, causing problems
for birds and aquatic life. I understand this is a human behavior issue, but what
structural improvements and changes can be made to discourage litter?
o Unfortunately, litter is a problem we have in all of our parks and
adding trash receptacles don’t always solve the issue. We will have
trash receptacles included as part of this project which if we place
them in the right location, could help with trash at the basketball
19
court. I will discuss with staff regarding other ideas to change
behavior related to littering.
• In addition to the litter, there are a lot of people who seem to think the park is an
open range dog park. That makes it hard to walk through the green space
thanks to all the dog poop they leave behind. That should be fun for patrons of
the splash pad to walk through in their bare feet and flip flops!
o Unfortunately again, this is an issue we face in many parks. I will
have conversation with Animal control about increasing patrol of the
area and they can help with educating dog owners on the importance
of picking up pet waste.
I hope you have time to watch the presentation as we do discuss some of the items
above. Please reach out to me if you have any further questions.
Thanks and have a great weekend!
Keith
Hi, Keith -
Thank you for your response. I watched the video of the meeting. You and your staff did
a very good job. I appreciate all the work that goes into this, the pre-planning and the
considerations.
One additional question: The closing hour for the splash pad would be 7:00 pm. Is there
any possibility that people could reserve the splash pad after that time, like they can do
for the park shelters? I recall one time many, many years ago my dear friend, Susan
Gwiasda, rented Carr Pool after hours for a friend’s birthday party.
I don’t have children and I will probably never use the splash pad but I think it’s a neat
idea and I think Daley Park would be a great location for it. I wish we’d had something
like that when I was a kid. All we had were metal slides that caused third-degree burns
in the summer and wooden seesaws that gave you 3” splinters in hard-to-reach places.
Thank you for responding to my questions and for all the work you’ve done to move this
idea forward.
Sallie
Sallie,
We have not made a decision about rentals yet but my guess is that there would be
rental opportunities.
Have a great day!
Keith
Keith and Team:
20
Thank you for the presentation and the opportunity to provide feedback. While I
generally believe that city's should invest in the community and make efforts to provide
resources and recreational things for its citizens to do, I also think we have to take what
its people say seriously when they are directly effected by those decisions. For the
record I think Ames does a great job of investing resources in the community to make it
better, and while a splash pad is something that can be exciting and fun, and Daley park
has a lot of people's support, I also have major concerns about it being in Daley Park,
especially for the people who's back yards back right up to the park.
I want to be empathetic to the people who live close to Emma McCarthy Lee Park and
their concerns too, and I want to be understanding of those in the neighborhood who
like the idea, obviously in these cases we tend to look selfishly about our own concerns,
and by nature I'm not that way, but none the less I have a few concerns and do not think
that the splash pad being there is a good idea or a good fit.
1. The traffic and the noise in the park is already heavy in the spring, summer and fall
months, and adding something like this would not only increase the traffic from our own
neighborhood, it would bring more traffic in from all over town. I think all of us who
signed up to live with a park in our back yard understand that there is going to be some
activity, but with the shelter hosting events, the play grounds, and the basketball courts,
that is enough activity, in addition to just those walking through the park. The idea of
cars parked up and down Wilder and on our other streets, because there is not enough
parking at the park and making the neighborhood and the park more congested is not
something that would be appealing. Right now the park serves as a neighborhood park
more than a city park and even with that it still has busy traffic. A splash pad would put
the traffic over the top, and simply is not desirable especially for those that live within
100 yards of it.
2. Regardless of the hours of the park, and the hours of the splash pad there are people
in the park and making noise well past the time that they are not supposed to, and this
just gives people who don't want to observe the rules one more thing to attract them to
the park. It is not policed and the hours are not enforced as it is, as someone who likes
to sit in my back yard and enjoy it, I see and hear this first hand, and so this is a
concern. I see this as more opportunities to break rules and have traffic in the park after
hours, and again for the people that live with there back yard in the park it is a concern.
3. Compared to the other parks, this park has several homes along its property line.
More traffic means even less privacy and we already give up plenty of privacy by
choosing to live here, more noise and activity means less peace and quiet, and we
already give up a certain aspect of those things by choosing to live here. I think we
would all say we chose to live here because nobody can build behind us, and to a
certain extent we like a certain amount of activity and buzz, and we get plenty of that
with the park as it is now. Everyone has there limits though, and I can't speak for what
limits my neighbors have up and down the property line, but for me this would push it
21
past the threshold especially with where it is going to be placed in proximity to where I
live........it is a real concern.
4. More traffic, more activity, larger crowds has the potential to provide more
opportunities for unforeseen things to happen, and that is a concern too.
Keith, I'm not fundamentally opposed to having a splash pad in Ames, I'm sure the
community as a whole likes the idea, but as someone who lives very close to the park
and very close to the location of where you are going to place this, I do oppose having it
in this particular park that has so many homes along its property line. Yes we choose to
live here, and yes we choose to live here with the understanding and knowledge of
activities and traffic in the park, but to me this pushes that noise and activity threshold
over the limit, and so I believe if the city is going to put this splash pad in then it should
consider parks or locations that have less residences along its property, less amenities
at the park itself, and more potential to accommodate car traffic and parking. Whatever
is decided we will be good stewards of the neighborhood and the city, we believe
community investment from the city is important, but I also really hope you listen to
concerns on all sides and how it could impact all people.
Those are my thoughts and I appreciate you taking the time to hear them.
Regards,
Chris Schmale
FACEBOOK COMMENTS:
They are wonderful! It would be nice to have more than one.
***************************
So glad a splash pad is in the world! (sic) Works?
***************************
Yes! Would love to have a splash pad in Ames.
***************************
Daley park is the ideal location. There is so much space with little shade. It would be a
great addition to the park, especially on hot days!
***************************
22
ATTACHMENT D
POTENTIAL PARKING ORDINANCE CHANGE
1
ITEM NO. 27
Staff Report
NEVADA REQUEST FOR AMES URBAN FRINGE PLAN MAP AMENDMENT
April 13, 2021
BACKGROUND:
City Council received a request from John Hall (Attached), representing the Nevada
Economic Development Council, for Ames to consider initiating an Ames Urban Fringe
Plan (AUFP) Amendment to exclude approximately 103 acres of land from the Ames
Fringe Plan boundary in order to allow for its interim development in Story County and
eventual annexation to Nevada.
This is the same land planned for use by Verbio for an ethanol rail shipping facility that
was the subject of the recent 28-E Agreement regarding annexation limitations along
590th Street. The City of Ames agreed in December 2020 that this property could be
annexed to Nevada, despite its location to the west of 590th Street.
Nevada has been unsuccessful in completing the annexation and Verbio desires to move
forward with its ethanol rail shipping plan. Verbio has therefore requested permission to
proceed with development in the County. The subject land is zoned agricultural in the
County and cannot be developed with an industrial use per the terms of the AUFP or the
County’s C2C Plan. This has led to the request to exclude the land from the Fringe Plan
and allow for Story County to proceed with considering land use designation amendments
and rezoning to accommodate the use before it is annexed into Nevada.
Staff’s understanding is that Nevada continues to work on the annexation process and
identifying additional property owners to voluntary agree to annexation, but it will take
time to secure others’ participation, if that can occur. Since the March request, Nevada
has prepared a new annexation application with 100% consenting property owners,
including the railroad property. This replaces the previous 80/20 application that
was rejected by the State.
Although the City gave up territorial rights to the land for annexation, the land remains
within the AUFP as Industrial Reserve Area, and Story County and Ames are bound to
follow the current plan and its amendment procedures. Support of the request would
require a Minor Amendment process with the City and Story County. Staff’s primary
concern is allowing for development in the County rather than a city. City and County
plans do not support this concept
OPTIONS:
Option 1 - Take No Action at this Time
If City Council does not initiate an amendment process, Nevada is allowed to
continue with its annexation efforts, and it would not involve any additional time
from the City or the County. Nevada has prepared a new annexation application
that is 100% voluntary and it appears to be approvable by the State without having
the City amend the AUFP.
In the event the application is rejected by the state, the City could reconsider this
request on a future agenda.
Option 2 - Initiate a Change to Exclude this 100-acre Area from the AUFP
City Council could initiate a Minor Amendment Process to exclude this property
from the AUFP. This would require Story County to also initiate a change. Then
the issue would proceed through public hearings with both governmental bodies
to obtain approval to exclude the area from the Fringe Plan.
Excluding the land would allow for Story County to consider how the proposal
meets its planning standards and the City would no longer be involved in the
situation. This approach does not address staff’s concern about rural development,
but it allows for Story County to determine what is appropriate and meet Verbio’s
interests.
Staff favors excluding the land over revising the Fringe Plan and adding text and
designations for industrial development in the county. If this option was selected,
staff believes it would be appropriate to add a condition that if Nevada does not
complete the annexation within two years that it would be annexed to Ames so as
to limit the rural development aspects of this unique situation.
STAFF COMMENTS:
Staff’s preference is for Council to proceed with Option 1. With no compelling
interest for the City in this issue it would be appropriate to allow Nevada to proceed
with its annexation process, while preserving the City’s current AUFP policies with
Story County concerning rural development.
3
ITEM # 28
DATE: 4-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: CONSENT TO DEED RESTRICTION ON BEHALF OF MAINSTREAM
LIVING FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1417 DOUGLAS AVENUE
BACKGROUND:
At its December 17th meeting, the City Council directed staff to proceed with finalizing the
terms and conditions to sell the city-owned property located at 1417 Douglas Avenue to
Mainstream Living in the amount of $36,012. Pursuant to the City’s sales contract with
Mainstream Living, Mainstream Living is required to seek City consent to grant any legal or
equitable interest in the property prior to December 31, 2041.
Staff finalized the sale to Mainstream Living, Inc. in March 2021. On March 22, 2021, staff
received a request from Mainstream Living, Inc. asking the City to consent to a “Deed
Restriction” encumbering the property for a period of five years in favor of the Story County
Housing Trust (SCHT) as result of receiving grant funds. The proposed “Deed Restriction”
functions as a lien against the property in an amount no greater than $37,654 (amortized
over the retention period) to ensure that grant funds are repaid upon certain conditions.
The City’s Legal Department created the attached Consent document to facilitate the
approval of Mainstream’s request. The attached consent would allow for Mainstream Living
to meet the conditions of the Story County Housing Trust Fund grant it received to construct
its new facility on Douglas.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Adopt a resolution approving the Consent Agreement on behalf of Mainstream Living
for the property at 1417 Douglas Avenue.
2. Do not approve the attached Consent.
3. Refer this item back to staff for further information.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The City sold this property to Mainstream Living to provide affordable housing for persons
with disabilities. Approving Mainstream’s request is consistent with the City’s affordable
housing program goals for this property in that it does not change the use of the site. The
interest granted by Mainstream to SCHT is subordinate to the restrictions placed upon the
property by the City.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative #1, as described above.
Consent
Know all persons: The City of Ames, Iowa, is the beneficiary of transfer and use
restrictions on certain real property legally described as Lot 4, Block 2, Harriman’s Addition to
Ames, Story County, Iowa (the “Real Property”), recorded in Instrument 2021-03004
(collectively “City’s Restrictive Covenants”). Mainstream Living, Inc., the owner (hereinafter
the “Owner”) of the Real Property has requested the City’s consent to the recording of an
encumbrance on the Real Property to Story County Housing Trust (the “Lender”) in an amount
not to exceed $37,654.00. For good cause, the City consents to the recording of the “Deed
Restriction” given by Owner to Lender to encumber the Real Property, provided, however, that
the rights of Lender shall be subordinate to and shall in no way be deemed to impair, modify, or
be superior to the City’s Restrictive Covenants.
Dated April ______________, 2021.
CITY OF AMES
By: By:
John A. Haila, Mayor Diane R. Voss, City Clerk
STATE OF IOWA, COUNTY OF STORY, SS.:
This instrument was acknowledged before me on April ________, 2021, by John A. Haila and
Diane R. Voss, as Mayor and City Clerk, respectively of the City of Ames, Iowa.
NOTARY PUBLIC
S P A C E A B O V E R E S E R V E D F O R O F F I C I A L U S E
Return document to: Cit Clerk, 515 Clark Avenue, Ames IA 5001
Document prepared by: Victoria A. Feilme er. Cit of Ames Le al Department, 515 Clark Ave., Ames, IA 50010 515 239 514
1
Item No. 29
Staff Report
CHAPTER 23 (SUBDIVISION) & CHAPTER 29 (ZONING) TEXT AMENDMENTS
April 13, 2021
BACKGROUND:
The Planning Division has recently reviewed some of the City’s project review and
notification procedures related to certain Planning applications. Staff believes that a
number of changes to application requirements and clarification of other
procedures would be beneficial for administration of Chapter 23 (Subdivisions) and
Chapter 29 (Zoning). A related chapter is Chapter 20 that describes the duties and
responsibilities of the Planning and Zoning Commission. Changes will benefit applicants
for development as well as City staff that process the development applications.
The Planning and Housing Department is identified in the Municipal Code as the
responsible entity for the administration of the Subdivision Code and for the administration
of the Zoning Ordinance. However, the Zoning Ordinance also includes a designated
role of a Zoning Enforcement Officer, the Chief Building Official, for the interpretation and
enforcement of zoning standards related to building permits and code enforcement.
Planning staff is responsible for other activities related to Site Development Plans, Zoning
Board of Adjustment applications, and Rezonings.
A number of zoning issues overlap between the Planning and Inspections Divisions
related to zoning standards. Staff proposes to consolidate administration and
interpretation responsibilities with the Planning and Housing Director, while
allowing for Inspections Division staff to have the delegated authority to efficiently
carry out building permit approvals and related code enforcement activities. This
would simplify questions of interpretations for external customers and the appeals
process of administrative decisions that are reviewed by the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
Currently the City’s Codes are very prescriptive regarding application materials and
contents with no discretion given to staff related to the scope of a project. Full engineered
drawings are required of an entire site, including identification of utilities, for all site plans.
Staff desires to update the application requirements to incorporate options for
future online submittals in lieu of paper copies and to create some discretion on
the level of information required on an engineered site plan when it is a smaller
improvement without a building or a small area of a larger site. The intake of all
planning related applications will also be changed to the Planning and Housing
2
Department from the combination of the City Clerk and Planning and Housing
Department.
The City’s Plat of Survey process for “Conveyance Parcels” was established in 2009.
This process is designed to ensure that an accurate description exists of a property with
physically delineated, monumented boundaries prior to issuance of building permits. This
applies to older properties in the City where people may have transferred property by
deed without a survey (conveyance) or to proposed boundary line adjustments. This
process is often time consuming for staff to determine categories of properties and
requirements related to conveyance parcels.
Staff proposes a number of changes to streamline the review process of conveyance
parcels and Plats of Survey to assist in the goal of having clearly defined property
boundaries, but to also minimize the effort involved in the reviews. In this area staff
desires to not only clarify process requirements, but also for City Council to allow
for Planning and Housing Director approval of Plats of Survey related to boundary
line adjustments and conveyance parcels rather than having City Council approval
with a resolution. Any division of land that creates an additional parcel would still require
City Council approval.
Notification requirements are often dictated by State law, but not for all types of
applications. Notification options that are most commonly applied to a project are
published notice in a newspaper, direct mail to property owners within 200 feet of a site,
and posting of a sign on a site. State subdivision law does not prescribe any notice
requirements for subdivision review. By practice the City requires the Planning and
Zoning Commission to hold a public hearing for the review of Preliminary Plat and provide
mailed and posted notice, while there is no public hearing or notice for the City Council
review. Staff would prefer to add to the Municipal Code the notification process for
Preliminary Plats as has been the City’s longtime practice of having a public
hearing with the Planning and Zoning Commission.
The Zoning Board of Adjustment procedures are part of Chapter 29 and also part of state
law. The Board conducts hearings on a variety of applications and there are Municipal
Code requirements to publish notice for most items, but also to mail notice and post a
sign. There are discrepancies in these processes that require clean up within Chapter
29. Therefore, staff believes that focusing on mailed and posted notice for these
site-specific projects are the best notification options and we should remove
publishing notice in the newspaper.
3
Removing the newspaper publishing requirement would save cost to the City and
potentially shorten review times for applicants. The voting procedure of the Board is
currently established as a requirement for three affirmative votes for any decision of the
Board. This has been an issue on occasion when less than five members are present and
votes of 2-2 or 2-1 have resulted in no decision and a tabling of items to future meetings.
This can create an inordinate delay in making decisions in some cases. Staff proposes
a standard voting rule of a majority of the quorum to approve a project; any other
decision would be a denial.
The following is a list of proposed specific updates for Chapter 23 and Chapter 29 (staff
comments are provided in italics below several of the changes). If City Council consents
to move forward with these changes, corresponding ordinances will be prepared
and reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Commission and then returned to the
City Council for approval.
Chapter 23 (Subdivisions):
1. Update conveyance parcel categories and review process for clarity (23.307).
The purpose of a conveyance parcel review is to determine if the parcel can
be recognized as an independent developable parcel based upon the time of
their creation or based upon their conformance to applicable development
standards. The current ordinance includes the following categories for
conveyance parcels:
a. Pre-platted and pre-established conveyance parcels
b. Conforming conveyance parcels
c. Non-conforming conveyance parcels and Unauthorized Parcel. Staff
proposes to clarify steps related to unauthorized conveyance parcels
and how to proceed with making the lots legal for use.
2. Allow staff to approve conveyance parcel reviews and boundary line adjustments
without a City Council resolution to staff to approve. Allow for a referral to Council
by the applicant if desired.
Boundary line adjustments are currently considered by the City Council as
Plats of Survey, these are very often routine with minimal to no discretion.
Approval by staff without action by the City Council would expedite the
approval process for the applicant. There are times that the applicant is
waiting for staff approval of a Minor Site Development Plan until the City
4
Council has acted on the Plat of Survey, prior to recording with Story or
Boone County.
3. Add an exception that an “ALTA Survey” does not require City review.
This type of survey is used to verify existing conditions often as part of a
real estate transaction. It is similar to a retracement survey that does not
benefit from City review. Recent changes at the state level require recording
of theses surveys. An ALTA survey does not substitute for Conveyance
Parcel review, if necessary.
4. Add application requirement to have an applicant prepare a deed coinciding with
land to be dedicated to the City for right-of-way.
5. Add notification requirement for Preliminary Plats.
Currently the City holds a Public Hearing with the Planning and Zoning
Commission, but this is not in the Code. State Law does not require
notification.
6. Subdivisions for Integrated Site Plans are a shared development process for a
site plan and subdivision with shared attributes.
Correct and clarify certain amendment procedures. Clarify that a new plat
is not needed if not re-subdividing and only making site plan changes. May
adjust other elements to related to the Site Plan components of the process.
Additionally, add option for shared building coverage standards along with
shared landscaping percentages for the overall site.
7. Update Subdivision application requirements to address online submittals.
Chapter 29 (Zoning):
1. Clarify all applications are submitted to the Planning & Housing Department, not
the City Clerk’s Office.
Annexations, Special Use Permits, Conditional Use Permits in the Flood
Plain, Special Home Occupations and Variances are currently filed with the
City Clerk’s Office. The City’s permit software is utilized within Planning and
5
Housing, but not within the City Clerk’s office. This will streamline intake and
review.
2. Update application requirements within Chapter 29 to address online submittals.
3. Add a section in Article 15 (Procedures) clarifying that by applying for a permit
there is consent for City staff to visit and walk the site as part of the review of the
project and the owner consents to the posting of a public hearing notice on the
property.
Practice has been to require consent with an application, but it is not directly
stated in the Code. The practice has been that a sign is posted on the
private property for certain types of development applications that are
considered by the City Council, Zoning Board of Adjustment, Planning &
Zoning Commission, and the Historic Preservation Commission.
4. Allow for the Planning & Housing Director to waive certain requirements for
contents of a Site Development Plan.
Depending upon the scope of a development proposal, the location, and the
type of application it may not be necessary to include contours, the location
of public utilities and easements and other existing conditions.
5. Change definition of “Zoning Enforcement Officer” for interpretations of zoning.
Currently the Building Official is the Zoning Enforcement Officer. This
amendment to the Code would provide the Planning & Housing Director
with authority to administer and interpret the Zoning Ordinance.
6. Designate the Planning Division as staff and secretary to the Zoning Board of
Adjustment (ZBA).
The Planning & Housing Department would be responsible for
administrative functions for the Zoning Board of Adjustment agendas and
meetings instead of the City Clerk’s Office. The City Clerk’s Office will
continue to maintain records of Decisions and Orders by the ZBA.
7. Change voting by the Zoning Board of Adjustment to majority of a quorum rather
than the Board.
6
This change would allow for a decision by the Board with only three
members in attendance. Currently, if only three members are present, all
three members must vote to approve or deny the motion, or the item is
tabled for further consideration at a future meeting of the Board.
8. Published notice for Zoning Board of Adjustment meetings is not required. Change
to mailed notice, posting of a sign, and posting of the agenda, only.
9. Clarify Special Use Permit submittal requirements for a formal site plan only when
there are improvements required or proposed, i.e. if the use is within an existing
building a new Site Development Plan may not be required.
STAFF COMMENTS
Staff believes the amendments listed above are beneficial to clarify a number of planning
processes. The most significant changes proposed by staff relate to updating application
procedures along with adjustment to the interpretation of the Zoning Ordinance by the
Planning and Housing Director rather than the designated Zoning Enforcement Officer.
Changes to the voting requirements of the ZBA will be consistent with typical rules for
approving a project. Due to the limited nature of the changes concerning primarily
administrative functions no specific community outreach is planned with these updates.
The changes in application process, staffing, and roles are not anticipated to have any
significant affect regarding Division budgets for these activities. All of the changes are
related to General Fund supported functions and there will be no net change to the
General Fund regardless of who is handling the tasks.
With City Council’s consent to move forward with the changes, staff will coordinate
preparation of ordinances with the City Attorney with the goal of having the
changes approved prior to July 1st.
1
ITEM: ___30__
DATE: 04-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: AMENDMENTS TO AMES COMPREHENSIVE HISTORIC
PRESERVATION PLAN
BACKGROUND
On March 9, 2021 the City Council reviewed proposed amendments to the Ames
Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan recommended by the Historic Preservation
Commission. City staff was directed to revise the Plan in accordance with the City Council
discussion at the March 9th meeting. Changes since the March City Council meeting
are shown in “red” type on the attached amendments.
In the past year, the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) has reviewed in detail the
goals, objectives, and action steps of the Ames Comprehensive Historic Preservation
Plan that City Council adopted in November 2009. Following this review, HPC is
recommending changes to update, clarify, delete, or add to the goals, objectives,
and action steps of the Plan.
The proposed changes recognize some of the accomplishments since 2009, such as the
2014 rewrite of the Ames Municipal Code Chapter 31- Historic Preservation, and they
also reflect the current view of the Commission regarding historic preservation practices
and objectives, including a focus on education.
There is a desire on the part of the HPC to provide information to the owners of properties
that are potentially historically significant. In addition, the HPC perceives a need to partner
with other community organizations to educate the citizens of Ames about the value of
preserving the historic structures in our community. Education may take the form of
walking tour brochures, digital tour guides, utilizing information available through the
Ames History Museum, information gathered through surveys of properties in various
neighborhoods, seminars, summits, and information available on the City of Ames
website, as well as through the City’s Geographic Information System (GIS) records. The
proposed changes reflect these areas of emphasis supported by the Commission.
The Ames Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan includes six (6) goals. Under each
goal are objectives and action steps. The goals remain intact except for minor changes
shown for Goals #5 and #6, below.
Goal #1: Acknowledge the role of historic preservation in encouraging civic pride,
neighborhood identity, economic vitality, and community sustainability.
Goal #2: Promote the preservation of historically, architecturally, and
archaeologically significant resources in the community.
Goal #3: Enhance municipal policies to protect historic resources and implement
policies through identification, effective legislation, and efficient regulatory
measures.
Goal #4: Educate the public concerning the value and benefit of historic preservation.
Goal #5: Facilitate and strengthen preservation partnerships among municipal,
county, state, and federal government agencies, including Iowa State
University, Ames Historical Society History Museum, local school districts,
and private developers.
Goal #6: Promote the economic development and vitality of the city through historic
preservation and heritage tourism.
The more extensive additions and deletions for the objectives and action steps are shown in Attachment A. The Commission requests that City Council formally adopt
the proposed amendments to the Plan. City staff consulted with the Commission during
its review and supports the proposed changes.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the proposed amendments to the Ames Comprehensive Historic
Preservation Plan (see Attachment A) as recommended by the Ames Historic
Preservation Commission and updated by staff, based upon City Council input.
2. Refer the proposed amendments to the Ames Comprehensive Historic
Preservation Plan back to the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) and/or staff
for revisions.
CITY MANAGERS RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Amendments to the Plan, as recommended by the Historic Preservation Commission,
were discussed at the City Council meeting on March 9, 2021. At that time, input was
received by staff from the City Council. Changes suggested by the City Council have
been incorporated into the Plan amendments that were originally proposed by the Historic
Preservation Commission.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council approve
Alternative #1, as described above.
ATTACHMENT A
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE
AMES COMPREHENSIVE HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN
GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND ACTION STEPS
*Please note that additions are shown in bold type and underlined. Deletions are shown with a
strikethrough, and items accomplished have been removed from the text.
GOAL #1. Acknowledge the role of historic preservation in encouraging civic pride,
neighborhood identity, economic vitality, and community sustainability.
Objective A:
Adopt strategies to conserve historic neighborhoods, which reflect their organic
development, historical roles and traditions, modern needs, and economic health and
stability.
Action Step: Form an umbrella organization of neighborhood associations to work toward
goals of mutual benefit.
Action Step: Encourage the study and appreciation of Ames history in all its wards and eras,
including the mid-20th century.
Action Step: Provide each neighborhood representative with the information, from
Chapter 4 (Historic Property Potentials) of the Ames Comprehensive
Preservation Plan Report, that applies to their neighborhood. Encourage
each neighborhood to consider conducting a survey to identify all
historically significant structures in their neighborhood.
Action Step: Develop design guidelines for the installation and use of historic streetlights in
national or local historic districts.
Objective B:
Facilitate the preservation efforts of neighborhood associations.
Action Step: Share historic preservation survey documentation with neighborhood
associations, through the use of links on the City of Ames website. Clarify
that designations of properties within a survey as “contributing,” “non-
contributing,” “potentially eligible,” or some other designation does not
necessarily mean that the properties will be subject to local historic
preservation regulations, nor listed on the National Register of Historic
Places.
Action Step: Sponsor an annual summit of neighborhood associations Seek ways to meet
with established neighborhood associations, and other residential areas
throughout the community, where residents can learn about historic
preservation as a tool for community improvement, share accomplishments,
discuss problems, and network. Collaborate with community organizations
to offer a historic preservation summit for neighborhoods, and other
community residents interested in historic preservation. Plan for such an
event at a minimum of once every five years.
Objective C:
Strengthen the role of historic preservation in promoting Ames tourism.
Action Step: Inform the Convention & Visitors Bureau, University, and Chamber of
Commerce about historic preservation as an essential component to market
Ames tourism.
Action Step: Coordinate with the Ames History Museum, Chamber of Commerce,
Convention & Visitors Bureau, Iowa State University, and individual
neighborhoods in developing the content, design and distribution of
printed walking brochures or digital guides. The brochures and digital
guides should focus on historic neighborhoods, historic districts, such as
Downtown, historic sites, and other areas in Ames of interest to persons
attending conferences, special events, or otherwise generally visiting the
community.
Objective D:
Inform the public about the role of historic preservation in stabilizing and increasing
property values and the community’s tax base.
Action Step: Analyze property assessment records to test the hypothesis that values have
risen in Old Town since the implementation of municipal design review in
1989.
Action Step: Encourage the Convention & Visitor Bureau, University, and Chamber of
Commerce to disseminate this information in their activities.
GOAL #2. Promote the preservation of historically, architecturally, and archaeologically
significant resources in the community.
Objective A:
Provide financial support for the Ames Historical Society History Museum to assist
in achieving the goals of the Ames Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan.
Action Step: Identify a strategy to assist in funding one, full-time, equivalent professional
staff employee and or supporting operational costs for of the Ames Historical
Society History Museum. This could include City support of grant requests
or support for outside funding sources.
Objective B:
Promote economic incentive opportunities to encourage the preservation of historic
buildings and neighborhoods.
Action Step: Provide property tax abatement for residential improvements to contributing
resources within designated historic districts and landmarks.
Action Step: Provide information to the owners of historically significant properties on
the use of financial incentives that are available.
Objective C:
Provide guidance for preserving and improving historic properties to developers,
property owners, and others interested in historic preservation.
Action Step: Encourage the owners of public, commercial, and residential property to seek
non-binding advice about proposed rehabilitation projects from the Ames
Historic Preservation Commission.
Action Step: Partner with the Ames History Museum and the State Historic
Preservation Office to provide information on preservation tools available
to the owners of historically significant properties.
Action Step: Continue to encourage the retention of outbuildings on historic properties,
particularly automobile garages.
Action Step: Preserve cultural landscapes natural resources with individual significance or
that are significant as contributing to a landscape within which other historic
buildings or structures are situated.
Objective D:
Encourage private support and commitment for preservation undertakings.
Action Step: Encourage property owners to pursue National Register nominations as
personal undertakings.
Objective E:
Increase awareness of the potential for archaeological sites within the city and legal
protection for them.
Action Step: In all historic survey projects, consider a property’s potential for National
Register Criterion D significance (archaeology), including sites where historic
archaeology (previous buildings, foundations, and/or other habitation materials
on a site) might apply.
GOAL #3. Enhance municipal policies to protect historic resources and implement policies
through identification, effective legislation, and efficient regulatory measures.
Objective B A:
Continue to improve Ames inventories of historic properties through reconnaissance
and intensive historical, architectural, and archaeological surveys.
Action Step: Identify and prioritize, by t The Historic Preservation Commission will
prioritize potential historic resource reconnaissance and intensive historic
surveys projects and strategize, by the Commission, funding mechanisms to
achieve them.
Action Step: Publicize results of previous surveys to promote preservation among property
owners.
Action Step: Integrate City survey information into the City Geographic Information
System (GIS)
Action Step: Include support of historic preservation in the Ames 2040 Comprehensive
Plan.
Objective C B:
Revise local historic district and landmark design guidelines to clarify their intent and
to reflect new materials, technologies, and “green issues.” Continue to monitor
changes and trends in new materials, technologies, and emerging “green”issues
as they relate to local historic district and landmark design guidelines.
Action Step: Remove Address internal inconsistencies, when identified, with updated
Chapter 31 design guidelines to reflect the compatible use of new materials,
technologies, and sustainability measures., and “green issues.”
Action Step: Create graphics handouts that illustrate the intent of the Design Guidelines
in order to make Guidelines more user friendly.
Objective D C:
Continue to designate local historic districts, local landmarks, and properties for
listing on the National Register of Historic Places. properties.
Action Step: The Historic Preservation Commission will identify Identify and prioritize, by
the Ames Historic Preservation Commission, potential National Register
historic districts and strategize, by the Commission, funding mechanisms
available for surveys and preparation of National Register nominations., if
necessary, to list them.
Action Step: Identify and designate properties eligible for listing as local landmarks and local
historic districts.
Action Step: Explore the possibility of designating a property in Ames as a National Historic
Landmark.
Action Step: Explore the potential to register the Lincoln Highway in Ames as a National
Register of Historic Places historic district.
Objective E D:
Ensure that design guidelines for city re/development incentive programs respect the
historic character of the properties and surrounding areas to which they are applied.
Action Step: Utilize the expertise of the Ames Historic Preservation Commission to advise
City Council on appropriate preservation standards for incentive
programs related to identified historic resources.
Objective F E:
Ensure that expansion or development of city City of Ames property follows good
appropriate preservation practices.
Action Step: Utilize the expertise of the Ames Historic Preservation Commission.
Action Step: Develop and adopt an historic preservation policy for City property.
Objective G F:
Protect the value of properties and neighborhoods by working to prevent the
deterioration of structures.
Action Step: Support the a minimum maintenance code for rental and owner-occupied
property.
GOAL #4. Educate the public concerning the value and benefit of historic preservation.
Objective A:
Increase public awareness of and support for historic preservation archival materials.
Action Step: Create and publish a list of historic preservation archival materials and their
locations.
Objective BA:
Promote and offer walking tours, lectures, workshops, and other educational
opportunities focused on historic preservation.
Action Step: Gather public input detailing stories of Ames history, people, and properties
using a city-provided on-line access and other methods.
Action Step: Develop and disseminate tour brochures, which identify the homes and
worksites of notable Ames residents.
Action Step: Sponsor workshops targeted to multiple audiences with emphasis on
commercial and residential architecture property, incentives, and hands-on
brick and mortar issues.
Objective CB:
Utilize website/on-line presence.
Action Step: Maintain a computerized list of survey materials for city staff and others to
consult in planning projects on the Historic Preservation Commission
section of the City of Ames website.
Action Step: Develop and maintain an online instructional sheet to explain correct methods
to record information concerning historic properties and an online form for that
information informational graphics to assist the public in understanding
and utilizing the Design Guidelines in Chapter 31 of the Municipal Code.
Action Step: Provide information concerning grants-in-aid and other funding sources for
historic preservation.
Action Step: Include applications for Ames local historic districts, local landmarks, and
National Register of Historic Places properties on the city’s website.
Objective DC:Facilitate the dissemination of historic preservation information.
Action Step: Identify and designate appropriate public access site or sites for preservation
information.
Action Step: Gather historic preservation information and resource materials and provide
public access for their use.
GOAL #5. Facilitate and strengthen preservation partnerships among municipal, county,
state, and federal government agencies, including Iowa State University, Ames
Historical Society History Museum, and local school districts, and private
developers.
Objective A:
Open communication channels among all interested parties to identify common
interests and concerns, to explore areas of mutual benefit, and to share historical data
and research.
Action Step: Collaborate with other historic preservation commissions, historical societies,
and related groups to promote common interests.
Action Step: Establish an annual joint session between Meet with the City Council and the
Ames Planning & Zoning Commission and Ames Historic Preservation
Commission to review authorities, responsibilities, and procedures on an as-
needed basis.
Action Step: Encourage county, state, and federal agencies to partner with municipal
agencies in preservation efforts to increase public awareness of the history of
Ames.
Action Step: Utilize resources available through Iowa Main Street program.
Action Step: Communicate Collaborate with Iowa State University regarding historic
resources throughout the community.
Action Step: Collaborate with other Iowa communities and other interested parties to
establish identify and promote specific historic resources along the a
Lincoln Highway historic conservation corridor across the State of Iowa.
Action Step: Partner with the Campustown Action Association and Iowa State University
to maintain promote remaining aspects of the historic character of
Campustown, while encouraging its development as a commercial and cultural
center.
Objective B:
Develop timely notification and review/comment process for proposed re-use,
rehabilitation, or demolition of historic resources.
Action Step: Explore additional ways the Historic Preservation Commission could be
involved in the review of demolition applications for with the demolition
properties determined to be eligible for the National Register.
potentially eligible historic properties in Ames.
Objective C:
Integrate the Historic Preservation Plan with other priorities of the City Council.
Action Step: Review the Ames Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan Report and
determine priorities as necessary, but not more frequently than once each year.
Action Step: Obtain approval from the City Council for priorities determined by the
Commission following each review of the Ames Comprehensive Historic
Preservation Plan Report.
GOAL #6: Promote the economic development and vitality of the city through historic
preservation, and heritage tourism.
Objective A:
Assess the impacts of new development on the historic character of existing
neighborhoods, commercial districts, and archaeological resources.
Action Step: Develop criteria to determine which type of new development projects should
be assessed.
Action Step: Develop assessment process.
Objective B:
Encourage the use and adaptive reuse of existing public and private buildings.
Action Step: Work with Main Street Iowa and Downtown Ames association on Main Street
Cultural and Entertainment District programs to maintain the historic character
of Downtown Ames, while encouraging its development as a commercial and
cultural center.
Action Step: Develop design pattern books to illustrate how adopted design guidelines can
be applied.
Action Step: Showcase notable adaptive reuse projects through the media.
Action Step: Consider Campustown as a potential candidate for the Urban Neighborhood
Main Street District (UNMSD) program of Main Street Iowa.
Objective C:
Explore local incentive opportunities for historic preservation. [e.g. TIF, façade
improvement program]
Action Step: Continue the grant and tax abatement programs for urban revitalization.
Objective D:
Provide current information concerning preservation grants and financial incentives.
Action Step: Continue to include pertinent data and links for additional information on the
city website, alongside local model projects if available.
Objective E:
Recognize the importance of preservation heritage tourism for Ames and support
efforts to promote it.
Action Step: Encourage interested parties to develop a coordinated heritage tourism strategy
for Ames with a role for historic preservation in that effort.
Objective F:
Partner with businesses in Downtown Ames, Campustown, and other business
communities and tourism efforts beyond Ames to explore branding, promotion,
products, marketing, and other economic advantages associated with the Lincoln
Highway as an historic corridor across Iowa and its attraction to the touring public.
Action Step: Encourage Consider sensitive use of the Lincoln Highway logo as a branding
tool.
ATTACHMENT B
RESOLUTION APPOVING AMES COMPREHENSIVE
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN
1
ITEM # ___31__
DATE 04-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: REQUEST FROM C.R.P. STUDENTS FOR FUNDS TO PRESENT AMES
FINDINGS AT C.U.P.U.M. CONFERENCE
BACKGROUND:
In July 2020, the City Council approved a proposal from Community and Regional
Planning (CRP) classes at Iowa State University to partner with the City in identifying
techniques to improve public engagement. The approved partnership included $2,000 in
funds authorized from the City Council Contingency account. Due to a reduction in
gatherings related to the COVID-19 pandemic, only $301 has been spent, leaving
$1,699 available.
At the March 23, 2021 City Council meeting, the City Council directed staff to place on
the next Council agenda a request from the CRP students to present their findings at
the International Conference on Computational Urban Planning and Urban Management
(CUPUM).
The conference fee is 220 Euro per attendee (roughly $259 each). Three students
would attend the conference and present findings, for a total estimated cost of $777.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Authorize staff to reimburse 660 Euro (approximately $777) in fees for three
student registrations to CUPUM from the funds budgeted for the CRP class
project.
2. Do not authorize the funds to be spent for this purpose.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The City’s partnership with Community and Regional Planning students has advanced
the City Council’s goal to use the best communication engagement techniques and
modern technologies to engage the community by reaching people in geographic areas
using multiple channels. The opportunity for the students to attend the CUPUM
conference and present their findings allows for the knowledge created through this
project to be shared with others. There is sufficient funding remaining within the
Council’s original budget for the project to support the request.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1 as described above.
1
ITEM # 32
DATE: 4-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: COMPREHENSIVE ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT FOR FISCAL YEAR
ENDED JUNE 30, 2020
BACKGROUND:
The City is required by the Code of Iowa to publish a complete set of audited financial
statements presented in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. These
financial statements, referred to as the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, serve
many purposes including the following:
• Provide information needed for both financial decision making and the assessment
of financial stewardship
• Lend insight into the financial health of the City
• Preserve public and investor trust through financial transparency
• Demonstrate compliance with public decisions concerning the raising and
spending of public monies
• Demonstrate the extent to which operating objectives are met efficiently and
effectively, using all resources available for that purpose, and whether it can
continue to do so
• Demonstrate compliance with finance-related legal and contractual provisions
The Comprehensive Annual Financial Report is made up of many sections and contains
information that may seem confusing even to those who are familiar with private sector
accounting reports. The main difference between private sector accounting and
governmental accounting is the use of fund accounting.
Fund accounting is a tool used by governments to organize and present data about
financial resources to show the fact that certain resources have been segregated for
specific activities or objectives in accordance with special regulations, restrictions, or
limitations. The constraints on how financial resources can be used are either imposed
externally (grantors and creditors) or internally through the budget adopted by the City
Council.
Governmental accounting regulations require that the statements contained in the
Comprehensive Annual Financial Report use methods of accounting that don't completely
match the method of recording transactions in the accounting software, which is primarily
on a budgetary basis for tracking and control against the Council approved budget. An
extensive amount of time is required to close out the accounting records and make the
numerous adjusting entries that are required to convert to the accounting basis required
for the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report. Because of this, the City produces this
financial report only on an annual basis.
2
Eide Bailly LLP, Certified Public Accountants, has audited the City's financial statements
as of and for the year ended June 30, 2020, and expressed its opinion on these
statements based on the audit. In the auditor's opinion, the financial statements present
fairly, in all material respects, the respective financial position of the governmental
activities, the business-type activities, the aggregate discretely presented component
unit, each major fund, and the aggregate remaining fund information of the City as of June
30, 2020, and the respective changes in financial position and, where applicable, cash
flows thereof for the year then ended in accordance with accounting principles generally
accepted in the United States of America with the exception described below.
AUDIT OPINION AND REPORT
The auditor's report includes a qualified opinion based on the Mary Greeley Medical
Center (MGMC) decision to classify CARES Act grant funds received as operating
income rather than nonoperating income as required by applicable accounting
standards. An excerpt of the auditor’s opinion related to the qualification is
provided below:
Mary Greeley Medical Center (major fund) has classified $3,792,303 of Provider
Relief Funds revenue within operating revenue in the Statement of Revenues,
Expenses, and Changes in Net Position – Proprietary Funds for the year ended
June 30, 2020. According to Governmental Accounting Standards Board Technical
Bulletin No. 2020‐1, the funds are to be reported as nonoperating revenue and as
a financing cash flow activity.
The audit opinion is an unmodified opinion except for the classification of revenue
for MGMC described above. During the audit, adjustments were made related to
accounts receivable, deferred revenue, and liabilities; both the auditor and staff
agreed with these adjustments. Staff will implement additional procedures to
identify and report liabilities and revenue in a manner that will avoid future audit
adjustments.
Also included with the report is the management letter that discloses any findings,
difficulties in performing the audit, misstatements, disagreements with management, and
other issues that came up during the audit. The letter confirms that there were no other
issues to report related to the June 30, 2020 audit. It does include a statement related to
the adjustments mentioned in the previous paragraph.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Accept the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report as presented.
2. Request further information.
3
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The City is required by state law to have an annual audit of its financial statements. The
City Council needs to accept the audited financial statements so they can be submitted
to the state and other users of the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
COMPREHENSIVE ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT
CITY OF AMES, IOWA
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2020
COMPREHENSIVE ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT
CITY OF AMES, IOWA
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2020
A YEAR LIKE NO OTHER
From a global pandemic to a rare midwestern derecho, the year 2020 proved itself to be one of the
most unpredictable, exhausting, isolating, and challenging in memory. Despite the year’s battering,
Ames citizens showed their resilience again and again.
When COVID-19, a new strain of a contagious coronavirus, emerged as a local threat, the City of
Ames began collaborating with community partners to develop strategies to respond. Residents
have masked up, physically distanced, and kept hand sanitizer nearby.
When a derecho with 90 miles per hour straight-line winds downed trees and snapped electric
transmission poles, City employees and mutual aid crews jumped into action to repower the
community. At the same time, neighbors checked on neighbors and helped clear debris.
In the face of significant obstacles, the City of Ames ended the year with several major
accomplishments including opening new parks, renovating public restrooms, energizing a
community solar farm, offering online programs, services, and classes, and celebrating with virtual
events.
This year’s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report provides insight
into these unprecedented times through narrative and numbers. The
photographs document how City employees continued to serve the
public with creativity and innovation.
CITY OF AMES, IOWA
COMPREHENSIVE ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED
JUNE 30, 2020
Prepared by:
Department of Finance
Accounting Division
Mission
Statement
We are caring people, providing quality
Programs with exceptional service to a
community of progress
We Value…
Continuous improvement in our organization and our services.
Innovation in problem solving.
Employee participation in decision making.
Personal and professional development.
Each other as we work together to serve the community.
We Are…
Proud to provide superior services to our community.
Professional and objective as we address public concerns and needs.
Fair, flexible, and helpful in our actions.
Efficient and fiscally responsible.
Proactive in reviewing and evaluating the type and focus of our services.
Caring People, Quality Programs, Exceptional Service
City of Ames
Table of Contents
June 30, 2020
INTRODUCTORY SECTION
Letter of Transmittal ..................................................................................................................1
GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting ...............................5
Organizational Chart ..................................................................................................................6
List of Elected and Appointed Officials ....................................................................................7
FINANCIAL SECTION
Independent Auditor's Report ....................................................................................................8
Management's Discussion and Analysis ..................................................................................12
Basic Financial Statements:
Government-Wide Financial Statements:
Statement of Net Position ............................................................................................24
Statement of Activities .................................................................................................26
Fund Financial Statements:
Balance Sheet – Governmental Funds .........................................................................27
Reconciliation of the Balance Sheet of Governmental Funds to the
Statement of Net Position ......................................................................................28
Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in Fund Balances –
Governmental Funds ..............................................................................................29
Reconciliation of the Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in
Fund Balances of Governmental Funds to the Statement of Activities .................30
Statement of Net Position – Proprietary Funds............................................................31
Statement of Revenues, Expenses, and Changes in Net Position –
Proprietary Funds ...................................................................................................33
Statement of Cash Flows – Proprietary Funds .............................................................34
Statement of Fiduciary Assets and Liabilities – Fiduciary Funds ...............................36
Notes to the Financial Statements ......................................................................................37
Required Supplementary Information:
Schedule of the City's Proportionate Share of the Net Pension Liability – Iowa
Public Employees' Retirement System ........................................................................92
Schedule of City Contributions – Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System ...............93
Schedule of the City's Proportionate Share of the Net Pension Liability –
Municipal Fire and Police Retirement System of Iowa ...............................................94
Schedule of City Contributions – Municipal Fire and Police Retirement System
of Iowa .........................................................................................................................95
Schedule of Changes in Total OPEB Liability and Related Ratios ...................................96
Budgetary Comparison Schedule – Governmental and Proprietary Funds .......................98
Budgetary Comparison Schedule – Budget to GAAP Reconciliation ...............................99
Notes to the Required Supplementary Information .........................................................100
Combining Fund Financial Statements and Schedules:
Combining Balance Sheet – Non-Major Governmental Funds .......................................105
Combining Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in Fund
Balances – Non-Major Governmental Funds ............................................................106
Combining Balance Sheet – Non-Major Special Revenue Funds ...................................107
Combining Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in Fund
Balances – Non-Major Special Revenue Funds.........................................................109
City of Ames
Table of Contents (continued)
June 30, 2020
Combining Statement of Net Position – Non-Major Enterprise Funds ...........................112
Combining Statement of Revenues, Expenses, and Changes in Net Position –
Non-Major Enterprise Funds .....................................................................................113
Combining Statement of Cash Flows – Non-Major Enterprise Funds ............................114
Combining Statement of Net Position – Internal Service Funds .....................................117
Combining Statement of Revenues, Expenses, and Changes in Net Position –
Internal Service Funds ...............................................................................................118
Combining Statement of Cash Flows – Internal Service Funds ......................................119
Combining Statement of Assets and Liabilities – Agency Funds....................................122
Combining Statement of Changes in Assets and Liabilities – Agency Funds .................123
STATISTICAL SECTION
Financial Trends:
Net Position by Component .............................................................................................125
Changes in Net Position ...................................................................................................126
Fund Balances of Governmental Funds ...........................................................................128
Changes in Fund Balances of Governmental Funds ........................................................129
Revenue Capacity:
Assessed and Estimated Actual Value of Taxable Property ............................................130
Property Tax Rates – Direct and Overlapping Governments ..........................................131
Principal Property Taxpayers ...........................................................................................132
Property Tax Levies and Collections ...............................................................................133
Debt Capacity:
Ratios of Outstanding Debt by Type ...............................................................................134
Ratios of General Bonded Debt Outstanding ...................................................................135
Direct and Overlapping Governmental Activities Debt ...................................................136
Legal Debt Margin ...........................................................................................................137
Pledged-Revenue Coverage .............................................................................................138
Demographic and Economic Information:
Demographic and Economic Statistics ............................................................................140
Principal Employers .........................................................................................................141
Operating Information:
Full-Time Equivalent Employees by Function ................................................................142
Operating Indicators by Function ....................................................................................143
Capital Asset Statistics by Function ................................................................................144
COMPLIANCE SECTION
Independent Auditor's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting and on
Compliance and Other Matters Based on an Audit of Financial Statements
Performed in Accordance with Government Auditing Standards ....................................146
Independent Auditor’s Report on Compliance for Each Major Federal Program and
Report on Internal Control Over Compliance Required by the Uniform Guidance ........148
Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards ........................................................................150
Notes to the Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards ...................................................152
Schedule of Findings and Questioned Costs ..........................................................................153
INTRODUCTORY SECTION
March 31, 2021
To the Honorable Mayor, City Council Members, and Citizens of the City of Ames, Iowa:
The City of Ames, Iowa (City) is required by the Code of Iowa to publish a complete set of audited
financial statements presented in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
Pursuant to these requirements, the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report of the City for the
fiscal year ended June 30, 2020, is hereby submitted.
Management assumes full responsibility for the completeness and reliability of the information
contained in this report, based upon a comprehensive framework of internal control that it has
established for this purpose. Because the cost of internal control should not exceed anticipated
benefits, the objective is to provide reasonable, rather than absolute, assurance that the financial
statements are free of any material misstatements.
Eide Bailly LLP, a firm of licensed certified public accountants, has issued an unmodified
(“clean”) opinion on the City’s financial statements for the year ended June 30, 2020, except for
the Mary Greeley Medical Center Enterprise Fund. The opinion on the Mary Greeley Medical
Center Enterprise Fund was qualified based on the classification of Provider Relief Funds. The
independent auditor’s report is presented as the first component of the financial section in this
report.
Management’s discussion and analysis (MD&A) immediately follows the independent auditor’s
report and provides a narrative introduction, overview, and analysis of the basic financial
statements. The MD&A complements this letter of transmittal and reads in conjunction with it.
Profile of the City of Ames
The City was incorporated in 1864 under the laws of the State of Iowa, later amended in July 1975
under the Home Rule City Act. The City is located in central Iowa, 30 miles north of Des Moines.
Ames is the eighth largest city in Iowa and serves a population of 66,258, according to the 2020
census. The City is empowered to levy a property tax on real property located within its boundaries.
It also is empowered by state statute to extend its corporate limits by annexation, which occurs
periodically when deemed appropriate by the governing council.
The City operates under a mayor-council form of government with an appointed manager. Policy-
making and legislative authority are vested in the governing council consisting of the mayor and
six other council members. The council members serve four-year staggered terms with three
council members elected every two years. The mayor is elected for a four-year term. Four of the
council members are elected by district. The mayor and the two remaining council members are
elected at large.
1
The City provides a full range of services, including police and fire protection; snow removal;
construction and maintenance of highways, streets, and other infrastructure; recreational and
cultural activities; library services; community development; electric, water, and sewer systems;
parking lot facilities; resource recovery; a municipal airport; transit services; and a municipal
hospital. The City is also financially accountable for a legally separate hospital foundation reported
separately within the City’s financial statements. Additional information on the hospital
foundation can be found in the notes to the financial statements (see note I(B)).
The annual budget serves as the foundation for the City's financial planning and control and is
prepared by function. The City Manager is responsible for developing a budget proposal for
presentation to the City Council in January and February of each year. The City Council is then
required to hold public hearings on the proposed budget and adopt a final budget no later than
March 31 for the fiscal year beginning the following July 1. Any amendments to the budget must
be prepared and adopted in the same manner as the original budget.
Local economy
The City is supported by a diverse economy that includes both the private and public sectors. Ames
is home to several large governmental agencies including Iowa State University (ISU), Iowa
Department of Transportation, the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Animal Disease
Center and National Veterinary Services Laboratories, and a U.S. Department of Energy research
lab. ISU and other government employers add significant local economic stability that has resulted
in an unemployment rate below the national and state averages for the past 30 years.
In December 2020, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the Ames metropolitan
statistical area (MSA) ranked as the lowest unemployment rate in the nation at 2.1%, well below
the national rate of 6.5% and Iowa rate of 3.7%, indicating substantial employment recovery from
the initial job losses due to the COVID pandemic. The City has continued a general trend of steady
employment growth; however total employment has fallen slightly over the year as the hospitality
sector has yet to fully recover. The City has also experienced steady growth in population,
increasing from 50,731 in the 2000 census to 58,965 in 2010, a 16% increase over ten years. The
U.S. Census Bureau July, 2019 population estimate was 66,258, a slight reduction from the prior
year.
Ames has continued steady, moderate, and sustainable growth in both population and property
valuation. The assessed valuation for property in Ames grew by 3.12% from January 2018 to
January 2019. ISU student enrollment has fallen slightly from recent peaks with 31,825 students
enrolled for the fall 2020 semester, a reduction of about 4.7% from the prior year.
The commercial and industrial sectors have slowed with the COVID Pandemic, but several
developments are currently in the early stages including a major downtown redevelopment in the
Lincoln Way Corridor and the extension of utilities east of Interstate 35 to serve commercial and
industrial expansion.
The retail, service, and housing sectors have also seen continued growth. Major redevelopment
projects continue in the South Duff retail corridor, with the first phase of redevelopment completed
at vacant big box retail site. The North Grand Mall site is also being redeveloped with two new
2
retail sites completed and open for business. The housing sector has remained strong, but has
shifted to single family and senior living as construction in the multifamily sector has slowed.
Long-term financial planning and major initiatives
Work has continued on improvements to major arterial transportation corridors, most notably the
progression of the project to extend Grand Avenue with the new connection to the South Duff
Corridor now complete. These and other street improvements have also included facilities to
support bike and pedestrian modes of transportation. Though not a City of Ames project, there are
significant transportation improvements underway affecting both the primary north/south and
east/west connections to Ames. The US 30/I-35 interchange is open to traffic and improvement to
the flyover ramp serving Ames are underway to better connect business districts to the major 4
lane highways. The addition to lanes on I-35 south of Ames is nearing completion.
Relevant financial policies
The City Council has adopted a comprehensive set of budget and fiscal policies, including financial
management, general revenue management, user fee cost recovery goals, enterprise fund fees and
rates, grant funding, revenue distribution, investments, fund balance designations and reserves,
capital improvement management, and capital improvement financing and debt management.
The minimum fund balance requirement for the General Fund is 25% of operating expenditures
less pass through amounts. The City met this requirement and adhered to all other financial policies
established by the City Council.
Awards and acknowledgements
The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) awarded
a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to the City for its
Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019. This is the 41st
consecutive year that the City has received this prestigious award. In order to be awarded a
Certificate of Achievement, the City has to publish an easily readable and efficiently organized
Comprehensive Annual Financial Report that satisfies both generally accepted accounting
principles and applicable program requirements.
A Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting is only valid for one year.
However, we believe that our current Comprehensive Annual Financial Report continues to meet
the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting program’s requirements, and
we are submitting it to the GFOA to determine its eligibility for another certificate.
The City also received the GFOA’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its annual budget
document for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2020. To qualify for this award, the City's budget
document has to be judged proficient as a policy document, an operations guide, a financial plan,
and a communication device. This is the 35th consecutive year the City has received this award.
3
The preparation of this report would not have been possible without the skill, effort, and dedication
of the entire staff in the Finance Department. We wish to thank all of the City departments for their
assistance in providing data necessary for this report. Credit is also due the Mayor and members
of the City Council for their interest and support of our efforts in conducting the financial
operations of the City in a responsible and progressive manner.
Respectfully submitted,
Steven L. Schainker
City Manager
Duane R. Pitcher, CPA, CPFO
Director of Finance
4
5
City of Ames
Organizational Chart
June 30, 2020
CITIZENS
HOSPITAL
BOARD
MARY GREELEY
MEDICAL
CENTER
MAYOR
&
COUNCIL
TRANSIT
BOARD
TRANSIT
(85.5)
CITY
MANAGER
ASSISTANT
CITY
MANAGER
ELECTRIC
SERVICES
(81)
FIRE/BUILDING
SAFETY
(73)
PLANNING &
HOUSING
(7)
POLICE
(84.6)
PUBLIC
WORKS
(76.75)
HUMAN
RESOURCES
(8)
FINANCE
(41)
ADMINISTRATIVE
SERVICES
(5)
ASSISTANT
CITY
MANAGER
CITY MANAGER
(City Clerk, Public
Relations, Cable TV)
(10.5)
WATER &
POLLUTION
CONTROL
(40)
FLEET & FACILITY
SERVICES
(9.5)
PARKS &
RECREATION
(26.75)
CITY
ATTORNEY
(6)
LIBRARY
BOARD
LIBRARY
(37)
CONFERENCE
BOARD
CITY
ASSESSOR
6
City of Ames
List of Elected and Appointed Officials
June 30, 2020
Elected Officials:
Mayor John Haila
Council Member – Ward 1 Gloria Betcher
Council Member – Ward 2 Tim Gartin
Council Member – Ward 3 David Martin
Council Member – Ward 4 Rachel Junck
Council Member – At Large Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen
Council Member – At Large Amber Corrieri
Council-Appointed Officials:
City Manager Steven Schainker
City Attorney Mark Lambert
City Manager-Appointed / Council-Approved Official:
City Clerk Diane Voss
City Manager-Appointed Officials:
Assistant City Manager Debra Schildroth
Assistant City Manager Brian Phillips
City Treasurer Roger Wisecup II
Director of Electric Utility Don Kom
Director of Finance Duane Pitcher
Director of Fleet Services Corey Mellies
Director of Human Resources Bethany Jorgenson
Director of Parks and Recreation Keith Abraham
Director of Planning and Housing Kelly Diekmann
Director of Public Works John Joiner
Director of Water and Pollution Control John Dunn
Fire Chief Rich Higgins
Police Chief Vacant
Other Officials:
Director of Transportation Barbara Neal
Library Director Sheila Schofer
Hospital Administration:
President / Chief Executive Officer Brian Dieter
Vice President / Chief Financial Officer Gary Botine
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FINANCIAL SECTION
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Independent Auditor’s Report
To the Honorable Mayor and
Members of the City Council
City of Ames, Iowa
Report on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying financial statements of the governmental activities, the business‐
type activities, the discretely presented component unit, each major fund, and the aggregate remaining
fund information of the City of Ames, Iowa (City) as of and for the year ended June 30, 2020, and the
related notes to the financial statements, which collectively comprise the City’s basic financial
statements as listed in the table of contents.
Management’s Responsibility for the Financial Statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in
accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America; this includes
the design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair
presentation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or
error.
Auditor’s Responsibility
Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements based on our audit. We did not
audit the financial statements of the Mary Greeley Medical Center (presented as an enterprise fund),
which is both a major fund and 60 percent, 56 percent, and 68 percent, respectively, of the assets, net
position, and revenues of the business‐ type activities. We did not audit the financial statements of the
component unit, which represents 100 percent of the assets, net position, and revenues of the
component unit. Those statements were audited by other auditors whose reports thereon have been
furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to the amounts included for the Mary Greeley
Medical Center and the component unit, is based solely on the reports of the other auditors. We
conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of
America and the standards applicable to financial audits contained in Government Auditing Standards,
issued by the Comptroller General of the United States. Those standards require that we plan and
perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free from
material misstatement. The financial statements of the component unit were not audited in accordance
with Government Auditing Standards.
8
An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in
the financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, including the
assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or
error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s
preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in order to design audit procedures that
are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the
effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also
includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of
significant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of
the financial statements.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for
our audit opinions.
Basis for Qualified Opinion on the Mary Greeley Medical Center Enterprise Fund
Mary Greeley Medical Center (major fund) has classified $3,792,303 of Provider Relief Funds revenue
within operating revenue in the Statement of Revenues, Expenses, and Changes in Net Position –
Proprietary Funds for the year ended June 30, 2020. According to Governmental Accounting Standards
Board Technical Bulletin No. 2020‐1, the funds are to be reported as nonoperating revenue and as a
financing cash flow activity.
Qualified Opinion on the Mary Greeley Medical Center Enterprise Fund
In our opinion, based on our audit and the reports of other auditors, except for the effects of the matter
as described in the “Basis for Qualified Opinion on the Mary Greeley Medical Center Enterprise Fund”
paragraph, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the
respective financial position of the Mary Greeley Medical Center Enterprise Fund, as of June 30, 2020,
and the respective changes in financial position and cash flows thereof for the year then ended in
accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Unmodified Opinions
In our opinion, based on our audit and the reports of other auditors, the financial statements referred to
above present fairly, in all material respects, the respective financial position of the governmental
activities, the business‐type activities, the discretely presented component unit, each major fund other
than the Mary Greeley Medical Center Enterprise Fund, and the aggregate remaining fund information
of the City of Ames, Iowa, as of June 30, 2020, and the respective changes in financial position and,
where applicable, cash flows thereof for the year then ended in accordance with accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States of America.
Emphasis of Matter
As discussed in Note IV(P) to the financial statements, the City has corrected the beginning balance of
the Water, Sewer, and the Business‐Type Activities, and accordingly, has restated the related net
position as of June 30, 2019. Our opinions are not modified with respect to this matter.
9
Other Matters
Required Supplementary Information
Accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America require that the management’s
discussion and analysis and the other required supplementary information listed in the table of contents
be presented to supplement the basic financial statements. Such information, although not a part of the
basic financial statements, is required by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board, who considers
it to be an essential part of financial reporting for placing the basic financial statements in an
appropriate operational, economic, or historical context. We have applied certain limited procedures to
the required supplementary information in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in
the United States of America, which consisted of inquires of management about the methods of
preparing the information and comparing the information for consistency with management’s responses
to our inquires, the basic financial statements, and other knowledge we obtained during our audit of the
basic financial statements. We do not express an opinion or provide any assurance on the information
because the limited procedures do not provide us with sufficient evidence to express an opinion or
provide any assurance.
Other Information
Our audit was conducted for the purpose of forming opinions on the financial statements that
collectively comprise the City of Ames, Iowa’s basic financial statements. The introductory section,
combining nonmajor fund financial statements, and statistical section are presented for purposes of
additional analysis and are not a required part of the financial statements. The accompanying Schedule
of Expenditures of Federal Awards is presented for purposes of additional analysis as required by the
audit requirements of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200, Uniform Administrative
Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) and is
not a required part of the financial statements.
The combining nonmajor fund financial statements and the Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards
are the responsibility of management and were derived from and relate directly to the underlying
accounting and other records used to prepare the basic financial statements. Such information has been
subjected to the auditing procedures applied in the audit of the basic financial statements and certain
additional procedures, including comparing and reconciling such information directly to the underlying
accounting and other records used to prepare the basic financial statements or to the basic financial
statements themselves, and other additional procedures in accordance with auditing standards
generally accepted in the United States of America. In our opinion, the combining nonmajor fund
financial statements and the Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards are fairly stated, in all material
respects, in relation to the basic financial statements as a whole.
The introductory and statistical sections have not been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in
the audit of the basic financial statements and, accordingly, we do not express an opinion or provide any
assurance on them.
10
Other Reporting Required by Government Auditing Standards
In accordance with Government Auditing Standards, we have also issued a report dated March 30, 2021,
on our consideration of the City’s internal control over financial reporting and on our tests of its
compliance with certain provisions of laws, regulations, contracts, grant agreements, and other matters.
The purpose of that report is solely to describe the scope of our testing of internal control over financial
reporting and compliance and the results of that testing, and not to provide an opinion on the
effectiveness of the City’s internal control over financial reporting or on compliance. That report is an
integral part of an audit performed in accordance with Government Auditing Standards in considering
the City’s internal control over financial reporting and compliance.
Dubuque, Iowa
March 30, 2021
11
Management's Discussion and Analysis
As management of the City of Ames (City), we offer readers of the City’s financial statements this
narrative overview and analysis of the financial activities of the City for the fiscal year ended June
30, 2020. We encourage readers to consider the information presented here in conjunction with
additional information that we have furnished in our letter of transmittal, which can be found on
pages 1-4 of this report.
Financial Highlights
• The assets and deferred outflows of resources of the City exceeded its liabilities and
deferred inflows of resources at the close of the most recent fiscal year by $890,224,685
(net position). Of this amount, $367,748,064 represents unrestricted net position, which
may be used to meet the City's ongoing obligations to citizens and creditors.
• The City’s total net position increased by $24,586,841, most of which was attributable to
the business-type activities.
• As of the close of the current fiscal year, the City’s governmental funds reported combined
fund balances of $57,884,102, an increase of $7,877,519 in comparison with the prior year.
Approximately 17.15% of this amount ($9,927,011) is available for spending at the
government’s discretion (unassigned fund balance).
• At the end of the current fiscal year, unrestricted fund balance (the total of the committed,
assigned, and unassigned components of fund balance) for the General Fund was
$14,052,398, or approximately 44.16% of total General Fund expenditures.
• The City’s total long-term outstanding debt increased by $26,774,447 during the current
fiscal year.
• Within the City's business-type activities, revenues exceeded expenses by $19,624,252.
The City policy is to set rates that fund operational expenses of business-type activities and
most capital improvements. The increase in net position represents funds accumulated for
planned future capital expenses, including capital investment to stay current with
technology at the hospital.
Overview of the Financial Statements
The discussion and analysis provided here are intended to serve as an introduction to the City’s
basic financial statements. The City's basic financial statements consist of three components: 1)
government-wide financial statements; 2) fund financial statements; and 3) the notes to financial
statements. This report also includes other supplementary information intended to furnish
additional detail to support the basic financial statements themselves.
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Government-wide Financial Statements. The government-wide financial statements are
designed to provide readers with a broad overview of the City's finances, in a manner similar to
private-sector business.
The statement of net position presents financial information on all of the City's assets and
liabilities, and deferred inflows/outflows of resources, with the difference reported as net position.
Over time, increases or decreases in net position may serve as a useful indicator of whether the
financial position of the City is improving or deteriorating.
The statement of activities presents information showing how the City’s net position changed
during the most recent fiscal year. All changes in net position are reported as soon as the underlying
event giving rise to the change occurs, regardless of the timing of related cash flows. Thus,
revenues and expenses are reported for some items that will only result in cash flows in future
fiscal periods (e.g., uncollected taxes and earned but unused vacation leave).
Both of the government-wide financial statements distinguish functions of the City that are
principally supported by taxes and intergovernmental revenues (governmental activities) from
other functions that are intended to recover all or a significant portion of their costs through user
fees and charges (business-type activities). The governmental activities of the City include general
government, public safety, public works, health and social services, culture and recreation, and
community and economic development. The business-type activities of the City include the
hospital, electric, sewer, water, transit, storm sewer, parking, resource recovery, an ice arena, and
a golf course.
The government-wide financial statements include not only the City itself (known as the primary
government), but also a legally separate medical center foundation for which the City is financially
accountable. Financial information for this component unit is reported separately from the
financial information presented for the primary government itself.
The government-wide financial statements can be found on pages 24-26 of this report.
Fund Financial Statements. A fund is a grouping of related accounts that is used to maintain
control over resources that have been segregated for specific activities or objectives. The City, like
other state and local governments, uses fund accounting to ensure and demonstrate compliance
with finance-related legal requirements. All of the funds of the City can be divided into three
categories: governmental funds, proprietary funds, and fiduciary funds.
Governmental Funds. Governmental funds are used to account for essentially the same functions
reported as governmental activities in the government-wide financial statements. However, unlike
the government-wide financial statements, governmental fund financial statements focus on near-
term inflows and outflows of spendable resources, as well as on balances of spendable resources
available at the end of the fiscal year. Such information may be useful in assessing a government’s
near-term financing requirements.
Because the focus of governmental funds is narrower than that of the government-wide financial
statements, it is useful to compare the information presented for governmental funds with similar
information presented for governmental activities in the government-wide financial statements.
By doing so, readers may better understand the long-term impact of the City’s near-term financing
13
decisions. Both the governmental fund balance sheet and governmental fund statement of
revenues, expenditures, and changes in fund balances provide a reconciliation to facilitate this
comparison between governmental funds and governmental activities.
The City maintains 23 individual governmental funds. Information is presented separately in the
governmental fund balance sheet and in the governmental fund statement of revenues,
expenditures, and changes in fund balances for the General Fund, capital projects fund, and debt
service fund, all of which are major funds. Data from the other 20 governmental funds are
combined into a single, aggregated presentation. Individual fund data for each of these non-major
governmental funds is provided in the form of combining statements in the combining fund
statements and schedules section of this report.
The City adopts an annual appropriated budget for its general, capital projects, debt service, special
revenue, and enterprise funds according to the Code of Iowa. A budgetary comparison schedule
has been provided as required supplementary information to demonstrate compliance with this
budget.
The basic governmental fund financial statements can be found on pages 27-30 of this report.
Proprietary Funds. The City maintains two different types of proprietary funds. Enterprise funds
are used to report the same functions presented as business-type activities in the government-wide
financial statements. The City uses enterprise funds to account for its hospital, electric, sewer,
water, parking, transit, storm sewer, ice arena, golf course, and resource recovery. Internal service
funds are an accounting device used to accumulate and allocate costs internally among the City's
various functions. The City uses internal service funds to account for fleet services, information
technology, risk management, and health insurance. Because these services benefit both the
governmental and business-type functions, they have been apportioned accordingly in the
government-wide financial statements.
Proprietary funds provide the same type of information as the government-wide financial
statements, only in more detail. The proprietary fund financial statements provide separate
information for the hospital, electric, sewer, and water, all of which are major funds of the City.
Data from the other six enterprise funds are combined into a single, aggregated presentation.
Individual fund data for each of these non-major enterprise funds is provided in the form of
combining statements in the combining fund statements and schedules section of this report.
Conversely, internal service funds are combined into a single, aggregated presentation in the
proprietary fund financial statements. Individual fund data for the internal service funds is
provided in the form of combining statements in the combining fund statements and schedules
section of this report.
The basic proprietary fund financial statements can be found on pages 31-35 of this report.
Fiduciary Funds. Fiduciary funds are used to account for resources held for the benefit of parties
outside of the government. Fiduciary funds are not reported in the government-wide financial
statements because the resources of those funds are not available to support the City’s own
programs. The accounting used for fiduciary funds is much like that used for proprietary funds.
14
The City maintains one type of fiduciary fund. Two agency funds report resources held by the City
in a custodial capacity for individuals, private organizations, and other governments.
The fiduciary fund financial statements can be found on page 36 of this report.
Notes to the Financial Statements. The notes provide additional information that is necessary to
acquire a full understanding of the data provided in the government-wide and fund financial
statements. The notes to the financial statements can be found on pages 37-90 of this report.
Other Information. In addition to the basic financial statements and accompanying notes, this
report also presents required supplementary information concerning the City's net pension
liability, obligation to provide other post-employment benefits to its employees, and budgetary
comparisons. Required supplementary information can be found on pages 92-102 of this report.
The combining statements referred to earlier in connection with non-major governmental funds,
non-major enterprise funds, internal service funds, and agency funds are presented immediately
following the required supplementary information. Combining fund statements and schedules can
be found on pages 106-124 of this report.
Government-Wide Overall Financial Analysis
As noted earlier, net position, may serve as a useful indicator of a government’s financial position
over time. In the case of the City, assets and deferred outflows of resources exceeded liabilities
and deferred inflows of resources by $890,224,685 at the close of the most recent fiscal year.
The following chart summarizes the government-wide assets, deferred outflows of resources,
liabilities, deferred inflows of resources, and net position of the City.
The largest portion of the City's net position (52.63%) reflects its net investment in capital assets
(e.g., land, buildings, machinery, and infrastructure) less any related outstanding debt that was
used to acquire those assets. The City uses these capital assets to provide a variety of services to
2019 2019
2019 (as restated)(as restated)
Current and other assets 111,969,235$ 99,026,783$ 536,780,936$ 479,642,261$ 648,750,171$ 578,669,044$
Net capital assets 191,177,604 191,424,573 470,389,288 463,793,844 661,566,892 655,218,417
Total assets 303,146,839 290,451,356 1,007,170,224 943,436,105 1,310,317,063 1,233,887,461
Deferred outflows of resources 7,988,660 8,257,255 22,611,037 25,054,838 30,599,697 33,312,093
Long-term liabilities outstanding 95,174,333 90,938,648 256,648,104 230,650,877 351,822,437 321,589,525
Other liabilities 6,613,106 5,337,204 47,783,234 37,203,397 54,396,340 42,540,601
Total liabilities 101,787,439 96,275,852 304,431,338 267,854,274 406,218,777 364,130,126
Deferred inflows of resources 34,047,337 32,094,625 10,425,961 5,336,959 44,473,298 37,431,584
Net position:
Net investment in capital
assets 148,292,299 144,730,839 320,199,338 311,786,131 468,491,637 456,516,970
Restricted 23,978,574 22,260,410 30,006,410 2,554,924 53,984,984 24,815,334
Unrestricted 3,029,850 3,346,885 364,718,214 380,958,655 367,748,064 384,305,540
Total net position 175,300,723$ 170,338,134$ 714,923,962$ 695,299,710$ 890,224,685$ 865,637,844$
Governmental Activities Business-Type Activities Total
2020 2020 2020
15
its citizens. Accordingly, these assets are not available for future spending. Although the City's net
investment in capital assets is reported net of related debt, it should be noted that the resources
used to repay this debt must be provided from other sources, since the capital assets themselves
cannot be used to liquidate these liabilities.
An additional portion of the City's net position ($53,984,984, or 6%) represents resources that are
subject to external restrictions on how they may be used. The remaining balance of $367,748,064
is unrestricted and may be used to meet the City’s ongoing obligations to citizens and creditors.
At the end of the current fiscal year, the City is able to report positive balances in all reported
categories of net position, both for the government as a whole, as well as for its separate
governmental and business-type activities.
The following chart shows the components of net position for the years ended June 30, 2020 and
2019:
Net investment in
capital assets
Restricted Unrestricted
$
M
i
l
l
i
o
n
s
Governmental Activities. During the current fiscal year, net position for governmental activities
increased $4,962,589 for an ending balance of $175,300,723. Taxes are the largest source of
governmental revenue with property taxes of $32,973,640 and local option sales taxes of
$8,470,509 in 2020. The $1,769,311 increase in property tax collections in 2020 over 2019 is due
to an increase in taxable valuation. Charges for services decreased $354,165 from 2019 revenues.
Governmental activity expenses increased $2.14 million from 2019, or 3.75%, mainly due to
normal increases in salaries, benefits, and costs of goods and services.
The following chart shows the expenses and related program revenues for the functions of
governmental activities:
16
General
government
Public safety Public works Health and
social
services
Culture and
recreation
Community
and economic
development
Interest on
long-term
debt
$
M
i
l
l
i
o
n
s
Governmental Activities
Program Revenues and Expenses
2019 2019
2019 (as restated)(as restated)
Revenues:
Program revenues
Charges for services 5,729,341$ 6,083,506$ 291,448,380$ 291,687,129$ 297,177,721$ 297,770,635$
Operating grants & contributions 9,090,602 8,950,597 8,118,261 4,437,834 17,208,863 13,388,431
Capital grants & contributions 3,536,671 3,426,018 2,014,199 3,097,169 5,550,870 6,523,187
General revenues
Property taxes 32,973,640 31,204,329 - - 32,973,640 31,204,329
Other taxes 10,456,666 10,507,087 - - 10,456,666 10,507,087
Unrestricted grants & contributions 54,366 23,589 - - 54,366 23,589
Investment earnings 2,177,884 2,190,478 8,135,196 19,708,701 10,313,080 21,899,179
Other 602,881 759,997 647,271 345,824 1,250,152 1,105,821
Total revenues 64,622,051 63,145,601 310,363,307 319,276,657 374,985,358 382,422,258
Expenses:
General government 3,304,608 3,141,379 - - 3,304,608 3,141,379
Public safety 20,956,310 18,951,047 - - 20,956,310 18,951,047
Public works 17,259,469 16,929,643 - - 17,259,469 16,929,643
Health & social services 1,463,008 1,499,781 - - 1,463,008 1,499,781
Culture & recreation 11,257,074 11,059,949 - - 11,257,074 11,059,949
Community & economic development 3,463,620 4,025,768 - - 3,463,620 4,025,768
Interest on long-term debt 1,578,408 1,534,075 - - 1,578,408 1,534,075
Mary Greeley Medical Center - - 194,116,951 186,917,186 194,116,951 186,917,186
Electric - - 58,345,295 62,322,757 58,345,295 62,322,757
Sewer - - 7,020,822 8,826,479 7,020,822 8,826,479
Water - - 10,620,259 9,841,869 10,620,259 9,841,869
Parking - - 999,414 975,126 999,414 975,126
Transit - - 13,842,640 14,004,166 13,842,640 14,004,166
Storm sewer - - 796,588 270,883 796,588 270,883
Ames/ISU Ice Arena - - 665,247 650,947 665,247 650,947
Homewood Golf Course - - 215,211 254,380 215,211 254,380
Resource Recovery - - 4,493,593 4,478,297 4,493,593 4,478,297
Total expenses 59,282,497 57,141,642 291,116,020 288,542,090 350,398,517 345,683,732
Increase in net position before
transfers 5,339,554 6,003,959 19,247,287 30,734,567 24,586,841 36,738,526
Transfers (376,965) (222,839) 376,965 222,839 - -
Increase in net position 4,962,589 5,781,120 19,624,252 30,957,406 24,586,841 36,738,526
Net position, beginning (as
restated)170,338,134 164,557,014 695,299,710 664,342,304 865,637,844 828,899,318
Net position, ending 175,300,723$ 170,338,134$ 714,923,962$ 695,299,710$ 890,224,685$ 865,637,844$
Governmental Activities Business-Type Activities Total
2020 2020 2020
17
The following chart shows revenues by source for governmental activities:
8.87%
14.07%
5.47%
51.03%
16.18%
0.08%
3.37%0.93%
Business-Type Activities. The net position for business-type activities increased by $19,624,252,
accounting for 79.82% of the City's growth during the fiscal year. The majority of this increase is
attributable to the hospital; operating margin was 2.06% compared to a budget of 3.0% and
investment income was $5.15 million.
The following chart shows the expenses and related program revenues for the functions of
business-type activities:
-
25
50
75
100
125
150
175
200 Revenues
Expenses
18
Financial Analysis of Governmental Funds
As noted earlier, the City uses fund accounting to ensure and demonstrate compliance with
finance-related legal requirements.
Governmental Funds. The focus of the City’s governmental funds is to provide information on
near-term inflows, outflows, and balances of spendable resources. Such information is useful in
assessing the City’s financing requirements. In particular, unassigned fund balance may serve as a
useful measure of a government’s net resources available for discretionary use as they represent
the portion of fund balance that has not yet been limited to use for a particular purpose by either
an external party, the City itself, or a group or individual that has been delegated authority to assign
resources for use for particular purposes by the City Council.
The City's governmental funds reported combined fund balances of $57,884,102 at June 30, 2020,
an increase of $7,877,519 from the prior year. Approximately 17.15% of this amount ($9,927,011)
constitutes unassigned fund balance, which is available for spending at the City's discretion. The
remainder of the fund balance is either non-spendable, restricted, committed, or assigned to
indicate that it is 1) not in spendable form ($341,750); 2) legally required to be maintained intact
($2,017,993); 3) restricted for particular purposes ($43,100,229); 4) committed for particular
purposes ($2,213,310); or 5) assigned for particular purposes ($283,809).
The General Fund is the chief operating fund of the City. At the end of the current fiscal year,
unassigned fund balance of the General Fund was $13,768,589, while total fund balance increased
by $1,530,547 to $14,293,376. The ending fund balance is 44.92% of the fiscal year expenditures,
exceeding the City's goal of 20% of expenditures.
Components of Fund Balance
General Fund
$
T
h
o
u
s
a
n
d
s
Unassigned
$
T
h
o
u
s
a
n
d
s
The Capital Projects Fund had an increase of $4,293,401 in fund balance during the fiscal year,
which put the overall fund balance at $20,835,345. Some of the capital projects for the year
included safety and access improvements, work on the extension of Grand Avenue and the
expansion of Iowa State University Research Park Phase IV, updating the Long-Range
Transportation Plan, as well as annual street maintenance and improvement.
19
The fund balance in the Debt Service Fund is just over $1.2 million at the end of the fiscal year,
an increase of $279,330 from the prior year, with property taxes and transfers from other funds
coming up just short of debt service payments.
The fund balances of other governmental funds increased by $1,774,241 from the 2019 balances.
A large part of this increase is in the Local Option Tax Fund, with a decrease in expenditures due
to the timing of projects.
(10) (5) - 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50
Non-spendable
Restricted
Committed
Assigned
Unassigned
$ Millions
Other Governmental Funds
Components of Fund Balance
June 30, 2020 and 2019
2019
2020
Proprietary Funds. The City's proprietary funds provide the same type of information found in
the government-wide financial statements, but in more detail.
The combined net position of the enterprise funds at June 30, 2020, totaled $703,599,467, of which
50.23% ($353,393,719) is unrestricted. This is a $17,159,851, or 2.5%, increase in net position
from last fiscal year. The net position of the internal service funds is $31,747,106, a $2,032,022
increase in net position. Unrestricted net position accounts for $21,553,862 (67.89%) of the total
internal service fund net position balance.
As in prior years, a majority of the increase in net position is attributable to the hospital
(approximately $9.6 million). The results of hospital operations were favorable with $4.1 million
in operating income. The next highest increase in net position is the electric fund with an increase
$6 million, mainly due to natural gas sales.
Charges for services for the internal service funds increased 1.95% over the prior year, in line with
the budget, with operating expenses staying flat.
20
General Fund Budgetary Highlights
Original Budget Compared to Final Budget. There were three amendments to the City's 2020
budget. The first amendment was approved in September 2019, primarily to reflect carryovers of
capital project expenditures from the prior year. The second and third amendments were approved
in March and May of 2020 to reflect year-end expenditures and revenues more accurately.
The main source of variation in the General Fund budget is the carryover of funds from fiscal year
2019 for capital projects that were not completed in fiscal year 2019.
Capital Assets and Debt Administration
Capital Assets. The City's investment in capital assets for its governmental and business-type
activities as of June 30, 2020, amounts to $661,566,890 (net of accumulated depreciation), an
increase of $6,348,473 from prior year capital assets. The investment in capital assets includes
land, buildings, infrastructure, plant and distribution systems, machinery, and equipment.
Some of the major capital asset additions include:
• $718,000 for substation improvements
• $945,000 for radio system for Story Communication Network System
• $1.0 million for improvements to the electric system
• $2.3 million for improvements to the sanitary system
• $14.3 million for information systems infrastructure upgrades, operating room and
radiology equipment, and facility updates
Additional information on the City's capital assets can be found in note IV (E) on pages 54-55 of
this report. The following shows capital assets, net of accumulated depreciation.
Long-term Debt. At the end of the current fiscal year, the City had $184,065,038 in outstanding
bonded debt, as shown in the following chart. Of this amount, $68,243,887 is debt backed by the
full faith and credit of the government and $115,821,050 is revenue bonds issued by proprietary
funds.
21
The City's total debt increased by $26,774,447 (12.03%) during the current fiscal year. State
Revolving Fund loans increased slightly with new borrowings to finish the new water plant, a new
bar screening system at the water pollution control facility, and for a sewer pipe and manhole
project.
State statutes limit the amount of general obligation debt an Iowa city may issue to five percent
(5%) of the actual assessed valuation at January 1, 2018, related to the 2019-2020 fiscal year. The
current debt limitation for the City is $241,870,551. A portion of the outstanding general obligation
debt is abated by revenue sources other than the property tax levy. Additional information on the
City's long-term debt can be found in note IV (K) on pages 77-84 of this report.
ECONOMIC FACTORS AND NEXT YEAR’S BUDGET AND RATES
The following economic factors were considered in developing the fiscal year 2021 budget:
• The City of Ames MSA employment remains strong and other economic indicators such
as retail sales and new construction generally indicate a strong local economy
• A 2% increase in water utility rates and a 5% increase in sewer rates to fund a portion of a
capital improvement projects, and estimated operational expenses
• No rate increase in electric, sanitary sewer, or storm water utility rates
• No increase in Resource Recovery per capita subsidy rate or tipping fees, however the
dollar amount of the per capita subsidy is expected to increase with population
• A increase in property tax rates from $10.03 to $10.15 per $1,000 of taxable valuation
• A 2.4% increase in the City's support for transit to improve services
• An increase in full-time equivalents by 5.2 positions; with additions in police, fire, animal
control, parks and recreation, and public works
• A 3.9% increase in health insurance costs including changes in plan design resulting in the
loss of the grandfathered status under the Affordable Care Act. Strong fund balance in the
self-insured health insurance fund will help to absorb an fluctuations in claims
• Recovery of local option sales tax due to collection of sales tax for online retail
Requests for Information. This financial report is designed to provide a general overview of the
City's finances for all those with an interest in the government’s finances. Questions concerning
any of the information provided in this report or requests for additional financial information
should be addressed to the Director of Finance, 515 Clark Avenue, Ames, Iowa, 50010.
22
Basic Financial Statements
23
City of Ames
Statement of Net Position
June 30, 2020
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
Governmental Business-Type Component
Activities Activities Total Unit
ASSETS
DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES
Primary Government
24
City of Ames
Statement of Net Position (continued)
June 30, 2020
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
Governmental Business-Type Component
Activities Activities Total Unit
LIABILITIES
DEFERRED INFLOWS OF RESOURCES
NET POSITION
Primary Government
25
City of Ames
Statement of Activities
For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
Operating Capital
Charges for Grants and Grants and Governmental Business-type Component
Functions / Programs:Expenses Services Contributions Contributions Activities Activities Total Unit
Primary government:
Component unit:
Primary Government
Program Revenues Net (Expense) Revenue and Changes in Net Position
26
City of Ames
Balance Sheet
Governmental Funds
June 30, 2020
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
Total Total
Capital Debt Nonmajor Governmental
General Projects Service Funds Funds
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents 6,414,954$ 7,518,434$ 607,296$ 10,454,103$ 24,994,787$
Investments 5,473,384 15,768,711 511,542 10,481,030 32,234,667
Taxes receivable 165,225 - 85,619 19,251 270,095
Special assessments receivable - 227,607 - - 227,607
Accrued interest receivable 90,471 57,096 3,280 6,776 157,623
Accounts receivable, net 232,246 156,118 - 2,269 390,633
Intergovernmental receivable 161,054 2,804,428 - 2,109,750 5,075,232
Loans receivable - - - 1,846 1,846
Due from other funds 2,469,213 627,809 40 381,208 3,478,270
Inventories 35,056 - - 60,376 95,432
Property held for resale - - - 1,114,441 1,114,441
Prepaid items 205,922 - - 40,396 246,318
Succeeding year taxes receivable 19,554,858 - 10,017,246 2,171,833 31,743,937
Long-term loans receivable - - - 8,561 8,561
Long-term special assessments receivable - 1,451,827 - - 1,451,827
Total assets 34,802,383$ 28,612,030$ 11,225,023$ 26,851,840$ 101,491,276$
LIABILITIES
Accounts payable 227,192$ 2,500,243$ -$ 720,809$ 3,448,244$
Accrued payroll 56,914 14,883 - 90,225 162,022
Retainage payable - 286,576 - 48,119 334,695
Customer deposits 52,991 - - 601,763 654,754
Intergovernmental payable 87,624 202,043 - 18,311 307,978
Due to other funds 435,277 297,578 - 1,235,160 1,968,015
Total liabilities 859,998 3,301,323 - 2,714,387 6,875,708
DEFERRED INFLOWS OF RESOURCES
Unavailable revenue:
Property taxes 19,554,858 - 10,017,246 2,171,833 31,743,937
Special assessments - 1,679,434 - - 1,679,434
Hotel/motel taxes - - - 413,801 413,801
Charges for services 19,914 - - - 19,914
Licenses and permits 2,783 - - - 2,783
Grants - 2,795,928 - 4,215 2,800,143
Refunds 71,454 - - - 71,454
Total deferred inflows of resources 19,649,009 4,475,362 10,017,246 2,589,849 36,731,466
FUND BALANCES
Non-spendable 240,978 - - 2,118,765 2,359,743
Restricted - 23,434,288 1,207,777 18,458,164 43,100,229
Committed - 964,140 - 1,249,170 2,213,310
Assigned 283,809 - - - 283,809
Unassigned 13,768,589 (3,563,083) - (278,495) 9,927,011
Total fund balances 14,293,376 20,835,345 1,207,777 21,547,604 57,884,102
Total liabilities, deferred inflows of
resources, and fund balances 34,802,383$ 28,612,030$ 11,225,023$ 26,851,840$ 101,491,276$
27
City of Ames
Reconciliation of the Balance Sheet of Governmental Funds
to the Statement of Net Position
June 30, 2020
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
28
City of Ames
Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in Fund Balances
Government Funds
For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
Total Total
Capital Debt Nonmajor Governmental
General Projects Service Funds Funds
REVENUES
Taxes 19,382,990$ -$ 10,222,998$ 13,900,500$ 43,506,488$
Special assessments - 303,643 - - 303,643
Licenses and permits 1,856,585 - - - 1,856,585
Intergovernmental 464,436 2,442,134 13,277 8,374,050 11,293,897
Charges for services 3,393,686 - - 19,350 3,413,036
Fines and forfeitures 28,276 - - - 28,276
Investment income 770,550 634,575 108,116 65,831 1,579,072
Miscellaneous 546,040 - - 518,543 1,064,583
Total revenues 26,442,563 3,380,352 10,344,391 22,878,274 63,045,580
EXPENDITURES
Current:
General government 2,646,859 149,052 - 235,349 3,031,260
Public safety 19,007,840 - - 120,076 19,127,916
Public works 1,112,992 - - 5,619,099 6,732,091
Health and social services - - - 1,463,008 1,463,008
Culture and recreation 8,030,369 - - 1,223,529 9,253,898
Community and economic development 1,020,290 - - 2,427,749 3,448,039
Debt service:
Principal - - 8,973,882 - 8,973,882
Interest and fiscal charges - - 2,158,844 - 2,158,844
Capital outlay - 10,072,282 - 2,075,617 12,147,899
Total expenditures 31,818,350 10,221,334 11,132,726 13,164,427 66,336,837
Excess (deficiency) of revenues
over (under) expenditures (5,375,787) (6,840,982) (788,335) 9,713,847 (3,291,257)
OTHER FINANCING SOURCES (USES)
Transfers in 9,541,100 163,582 1,067,665 117,950 10,890,297
Transfers out (2,634,766) (574,937) - (8,057,559) (11,267,262)
General obligation bonds issued - 10,520,000 - - 10,520,000
Premium on general obligation bonds - 1,025,738 - - 1,025,738
Total other financing sources (uses)6,906,334 11,134,383 1,067,665 (7,939,609) 11,168,773
Net change in fund balances 1,530,547 4,293,401 279,330 1,774,238 7,877,516
Fund balances, beginning 12,762,829 16,541,944 928,447 19,773,363 50,006,583
Fund balances, ending 14,293,376$ 20,835,345$ 1,207,777$ 21,547,601$ 57,884,099$
29
City of Ames
Reconciliation of the Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in
Fund Balances of Government Funds to the Statement of Activities
For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
30
City of Ames
Statemet of Net Position
Proprietary Funds
June 30, 2020
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
Governmental
Activities
Mary Greeley Other Internal
Medical Enterprise Service
Center Electric Sewer Water Funds Totals Funds
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents 59,159,092$ 3,128,341$ 5,944,898$ 9,451,992$ 6,490,605$ 84,174,928$ 13,392,835$
Investments - 29,845,713 5,283,933 8,659,216 5,760,754 49,549,616 11,912,328
Accrued interest receivable - 299,986 35,463 58,103 38,708 432,260 78,607
Accounts receivable, net 29,979,811 7,602,340 945,267 1,475,756 3,090,045 43,093,219 123,700
Due from other funds - 320,997 116,467 143,430 145,257 726,151 616,940
Intergovernmental receivable - 195,793 - 490 1,098,624 1,294,907 45,365
Inventories 4,104,151 2,892,086 - 475,336 350,341 7,821,914 76,082
Prepaid items 3,761,382 75,283 2,681 11,121 30,589 3,881,056 215,044
Restricted current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents - 1,030,776 44,567 352,425 - 1,427,768 -
Investments 28,578,642 - - - - 28,578,642 -
Interest receivable 11,458 - - - - 11,458 -
Total current assets 125,594,536 45,391,315 12,373,276 20,627,869 17,004,923 220,991,919 26,460,901
Non-current assets:
Investments - 18,469,323 - - - 18,469,323 -
Other assets 8,123,847 - - - - 8,123,847 -
Capital assets:
Land 4,470,719 2,223,783 1,918,772 1,647,985 2,410,197 12,671,456 -
Land improvements 1,495,922 - - - 5,631,755 7,127,677 192,433
Plant and distribution systems - 212,107,020 94,184,082 123,236,688 - 429,527,790 -
Buildings 252,580,546 - - - 39,825,341 292,405,887 884,494
Equipment 130,921,661 - - - 38,983,252 169,904,913 20,689,694
Construction in progress 3,292,382 11,915,842 3,350,182 2,841,994 1,150,378 22,550,778 -
Less accumulated depreciation (206,481,958) (130,099,299) (56,390,005) (23,199,157) (47,628,794) (463,799,213) (11,573,377)
Restricted non-current assets:
Investments 278,034,268 - - - - 278,034,268 -
Total non-current assets 472,437,387 114,616,669 43,063,031 104,527,510 40,372,129 775,016,726 10,193,244
Total assets 598,031,923 160,007,984 55,436,307 125,155,379 57,377,052 996,008,645 36,654,145
DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES
Deferred charge on refunding 6,556,955 - - - - 6,556,955 -
Deferred outflows related to OPEB 721,887 139,870 38,231 43,761 104,362 1,048,111 35,979
Deferred outflows related to pensions 12,104,324 688,386 209,534 210,523 1,769,691 14,982,458 268,032
19,383,166 828,256 247,765 254,284 1,874,053 22,587,524 304,011
Business-Type Activities
31
City of Ames
Statement of Net Position (continued)
Proprietary Funds
June 30, 2020
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable 8,148,107 3,153,545 216,180 563,362 275,809 12,357,003 285,694
Accrued payroll 5,797,428 138,957 4,920 28,285 188,951 6,158,541 14,159
Accrued compensated absences 477,956 37,714 6,536 11,596 32,364 566,166 6,725
Due to other funds - 486,475 343,229 295,085 395,452 1,520,240 1,328,285
Claims payable 612,077 - - - - 612,077 2,075,572
Retainage payable 992,647 544,473 200,442 139,831 19,713 1,897,106 -
Customer deposits - 929,861 - - - 929,861 -
Accrued interest 142,588 45,899 15,856 100,681 1,699 306,723 -
Loans payable 114,099 - 424,000 3,045,000 - 3,583,099 -
Intergovernmental payable 21,688,891 102,749 5,506 29,634 61,573 21,888,353 145,711
Accrued landfill post-closure costs - - - - 16,155 16,155 -
Bonds payable, net 6,177,910 841,998 343,060 142,583 145,855 7,651,406 -
Unearned revenue - - 1,541,773 802,103 8,596 2,352,472 9,470
Total current liabilities 44,151,703 6,281,671 3,101,502 5,158,160 1,146,167 59,839,202 3,865,616
Non-current liabilities:
Accrued compensated absences 5,959,308 644,644 108,151 208,476 550,782 7,471,362 111,048
Accrued other post-employment benefits 4,441,917 469,393 128,299 146,858 350,225 5,536,692 120,746
Net pension liability 47,494,363 2,334,773 752,735 729,690 6,380,063 57,691,624 960,261
Loans payable 323,281 - 5,115,927 56,159,737 - 61,598,945 -
Accrued landfill post-closure costs - - - - 71,348 71,348 -
Bonds payable, net 103,150,851 5,823,888 2,182,697 628,599 602,644 112,388,679 -
Total non-current liabilities 161,369,720 9,272,698 8,287,810 57,873,360 7,955,062 244,758,650 1,192,055
Total liabilities 205,521,423 15,554,369 11,389,312 63,031,520 9,101,229 304,597,852 5,057,671
DEFERRED INFLOWS OF RESOURCES
Deferred inflows related to OPEB 819,243 71,854 19,639 22,480 53,612 986,828 18,482
Deferred inflows related to pensions 7,898,157 406,002 123,497 113,808 870,557 9,412,021 134,897
8,717,400 477,856 143,136 136,288 924,169 10,398,849 153,379
NET POSITION
Net investment in capital assets 110,478,923 89,481,460 35,593,077 45,022,248 39,623,630 320,199,338 10,193,244
Restricted for debt service 28,578,642 1,030,776 44,567 352,425 - 30,006,410 -
Unrestricted 264,118,701 54,291,779 8,513,980 16,867,182 9,602,077 353,393,719 21,553,862
Total net position 403,176,266$ 144,804,015$ 44,151,624$ 62,241,855$ 49,225,707$ 703,599,467 31,747,106$
Adjustment to report the cumulative internal balance for the net effect of the activity between the internal
service funds and the enterprise funds over time 11,324,487
Net position of business-type activities 714,923,962$
32
City of Ames
Statement of Revenues, Expenses, and Changes in Net Position
Proprietary Funds
For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
Governmental
Activities
Mary Greeley Other Internal
Medical Enterprise Service
Center Electric Sewer Water Funds Totals Funds
Operating revenues:
Charges for services 198,155,472$ 64,882,140$ 7,754,405$ 11,448,309$ 13,000,349$ 295,240,675$ 19,822,465$
Operating expenses:
Cost of goods and services 138,326,273 52,186,354 4,835,536 6,581,835 15,455,292 217,385,290 16,713,887
Administration 39,170,784 1,259,157 371,591 422,325 2,250,587 43,474,444 -
Depreciation 16,582,401 4,920,459 1,697,000 2,452,862 3,452,574 29,105,296 1,452,068
Total operating expenses 194,079,458 58,365,970 6,904,127 9,457,022 21,158,453 289,965,030 18,165,955
Operating income (loss)4,076,014 6,516,170 850,278 1,991,287 (8,158,104) 5,275,645 1,656,510
Non-operating revenues (expenses):
Intergovernmental - - 42,000 - 3,827,592 3,869,592 -
Reimbursements - 44,307 - 41,756 370,303 456,366 -
Investment income 5,515,051 1,454,698 312,060 556,325 297,062 8,135,196 598,629
Interest expense - (177,212) (175,171) (1,240,974) (17,099) (1,610,456) -
Gain (loss) on disposal of capital assets (37,492) - - (2,820) - (40,312) (223,117)
Miscellaneous - 300,160 123,056 124,857 99,198 647,271 -
Total non-operating revenues (expenses)5,477,559 1,621,953 301,945 (520,856) 4,577,056 11,457,657 375,512
Income (loss) before capital
contributions and transfers 9,553,573 8,138,123 1,152,223 1,470,431 (3,581,048) 16,733,302 2,032,022
Capital contributions 27,933 - 781,290 35,426 1,169,550 2,014,199 -
Transfers in - - - - 2,520,205 2,520,205 -
Transfers out - (2,143,240) - - - (2,143,240) -
Change in net position 9,581,506 5,994,883 1,933,513 1,505,857 108,707 19,124,466 2,032,022
Net position, beginning as restated 393,594,760 138,809,132 42,218,111 60,735,998 49,117,000 29,715,084
Net position, ending 403,176,266$ 144,804,015$ 44,151,624$ 62,241,855$ 49,225,707$ 31,747,106$
Adjustment for the net effect of the current year activity between the internal service
funds and the enterprise funds 504,606
Change in net position of business-type activities 19,624,244$
Business-Type Activities
33
City of Ames
Statement of Cash Flows
Proprietary Funds
For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
Governmental
Activities
Mary Greeley Other Internal
Medical Enterprise Service
Center Electric Sewer Water Funds Totals Funds
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Receipts from customers 205,388,209$ 64,733,517$ 8,304,915$ 11,186,392$ 13,281,708$ 302,894,741$ 20,522,063$
Other receipts 10,703,368 - - - - 10,703,368 -
Payments to suppliers (84,661,601) (42,162,037) (1,322,322) (2,180,372) (4,287,588) (134,613,920) (12,969,540)
Payments to employees (93,945,463) (10,146,006) (2,159,991) (3,224,018) (11,093,502) (120,568,980) (2,049,049)
Payments to other funds for services provided - (2,271,721) (2,241,457) (1,233,313) (1,832,350) (7,578,841) 193,258
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities 37,484,513 10,153,753 2,581,145 4,548,689 (3,931,732) 50,836,368 5,696,732
CASH FLOW FROM NON-CAPITAL FINANCING
ACTIVITIES
Operating grants - - 42,000 - 3,827,592 3,869,592 -
Reimbursements - 44,307 - 41,756 370,303 456,366 -
Miscellaneous - 300,160 123,056 124,857 99,198 647,271 -
Transfers in - - - - 2,520,205 2,520,205 -
Transfers out - (2,143,240) - - - (2,143,240) -
Net cash provided by (used for) non-capital
financing activities - (1,798,773) 165,056 166,613 6,817,298 5,350,194 -
CASH FLOWS FROM CAPITAL AND RELATED
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Acquisition and construction of capital assets (19,486,097) (7,914,990) (3,761,215) (2,819,061) (2,424,099) (36,405,462) (2,260,675)
Proceeds from the sale of capital assets 29,169 - - - - 29,169 -
Proceeds from the issuance of bonds 35,000,000 174,896 53,597 53,597 - 35,282,090 -
Principal paid on capital debt (4,819,099) (720,000) (297,883) (348,235) (140,000) (6,325,217) -
Interest paid on capital debt (3,675,913) (245,306) (89,806) (38,379) (23,188) (4,072,592) -
Principal paid on loans - - (415,332) (2,986,000) - (3,401,332) -
Interest paid on loans - - (119,105) (1,243,815) - (1,362,920) -
Capital contributions 27,933 - 727,170 - 1,169,550 1,924,653 -
Net cash used for capital and related financing activities 7,075,993 (8,705,400) (3,902,574) (7,381,893) (1,417,737) (14,331,611) (2,260,675)
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Purchase of investments (144,343,393) (33,836,792) (434,332) (1,094,951) (2,404,071) (182,113,539) (4,074,580)
Proceeds from sale of investments 139,259,496 31,367,209 822,600 2,073,773 1,560,415 175,083,493 2,151,379
Interest on investments 7,207,756 1,390,696 315,876 563,986 292,166 9,770,480 585,891
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities 2,123,859 (1,078,887) 704,144 1,542,808 (551,490) 2,740,434 (1,337,310)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 46,684,365 (1,429,307) (452,229) (1,123,783) 916,339 44,595,385 2,098,747
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning 12,474,727 4,557,982 6,396,519 10,575,715 5,574,266 39,579,209 11,294,089
Cash and cash equivalents, ending 59,159,092 3,128,675 5,944,290 9,451,932 6,490,605 84,174,594 13,392,836
Plus: beginning amount reported in restricted assets - 1,030,442 45,175 352,485 - 1,428,102 -
Less: ending amount reported in restricted assets - 1,030,776 44,567 352,425 - 1,427,768 -
Cash and cash equivalents, ending - statement of net position 59,159,092$ 3,128,341$ 5,944,898$ 9,451,992$ 6,490,605$ 84,174,928$ 13,392,835$
Business-Type Activities
34
City of Ames
Statement of Cash Flows (continued)
Proprietary Funds
For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
Governmental
Activities
Mary Greeley Other Internal
Medical Enterprise Service
Center Electric Sewer Water Funds Totals Funds
Reconciliation of operating income (loss) to net
cash provided by (used for) operating activities:
Operating income (loss)4,076,014$ 6,516,170$ 850,278$ 1,991,287$ (8,158,104)$ 5,275,645$ 1,656,510$
Adjustments to reconcile operating income (loss) to net
cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation expense 16,582,401 4,920,459 1,697,000 2,452,862 3,452,574 29,105,296 1,452,068
Interest expense 3,883,594 - - - - 3,883,594 -
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable (4,170,764) (318,225) (84,271) (282,161) (2,043,631) (6,899,052) 211,753
(Increase) decrease in due from other funds - (102,384) (65,111) (624) 164,280 (3,839) 473,567
(Increase) decrease in intergovernmental receivable - 277,876 341,989 (490) 2,160,914 2,780,289 4,808
(Increase) decrease in inventories (476,428) (294,202) - (147,997) (7,327) (925,954) 10,686
(Increase) decrease in prepaid items (1,015,432) (36,796) (2,656) (4,635) (17,172) (1,076,691) (49,932)
(Increase) decrease in deferred outflows of resources 1,629,554 (20,220) (6,731) (1,133) 140,932 1,742,402 (313)
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable (2,022,002) (1,372,990) (370,452) 388,953 109,042 (3,267,449) 48,063
Increase (decrease) in accrued payroll (2,693,201) 10,366 (3,478) 3,565 3,380 (2,679,368) (1,806)
Increase (decrease) in accrued compensated absences 131,554 66,062 (9,139) (9,058) 14,803 194,222 17,038
Increase (decrease) in due to other funds - 127,520 (123,049) (55,260) (67,985) (118,774) 1,034,401
Increase (decrease) in claims payable (128,294) - - - - (128,294) 653,371
Increase (decrease) in retainage payable - 241,358 (61,797) 109,899 9,986 299,446 -
Increase in customer deposits - (5,890) - - - (5,890) -
Increase in accrued interest on customer deposits - (1,355) - - - (1,355) -
Increase (decrease) in intergovernmental payable 21,688,891 (87,703) (2,240) 4,763 8,574 21,612,285 112,940
Decrease in accrued landfill post-closure costs - - - - (4,158) (4,158) -
Increase (decrease) in unearned revenue - - 357,903 21,358 (204) 379,057 9,470
Increase (decrease) in post-employment benefits (22,211) 82,104 22,441 25,688 61,258 169,280 21,120
Increase (decrease) in pension liability (3,942,201) (167,064) (43,795) (60,337) (365,593) (4,578,990) (50,567)
Increase in deferred inflows of resources 3,963,038 318,667 84,253 112,009 606,699 5,084,666 93,556
Total adjustments 33,408,499 3,637,583 1,730,867 2,557,402 4,226,372 45,560,723 4,040,223
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities 37,484,513$ 10,153,753$ 2,581,145$ 4,548,689$ (3,931,732)$ 50,836,368$ 5,696,732$
Schedule of non-cash capital and related financing activities:
Capital asset contributions -$ -$ 54,120$ 35,426$ -$ 89,546$ -$
Business-Type Activities
35
City of Ames
Statement of Fiduciary Assets and Liabilities
Fiduciary Funds
June 30, 2020
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
Cash and cash equivalents 237,084$
Investments 105,771
Intergovernmental receivable 905
Accounts receivable, net -
Total assets 343,760$
LIABILITIES
Accounts payable 13,250$
Intergovernmental payable 330,510
Total liabilities 343,760$
36
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
I. Summary of significant accounting policies
A. Description of government-wide financial statements
The government-wide financial statements (i.e., the statement of net position and the statement
of activities) report information on all of the non-fiduciary activities of the primary government
and its component unit. All fiduciary activities are reported only in the fund financial
statements. Governmental activities, which normally are supported by taxes, intergovernmental
revenues, and other non-exchange transactions, are reported separately from business-type
activities, which rely to a significant extent on fees and charges to external customers for
support. Likewise, the primary government is reported separately from certain legally separate
component units for which the primary government is financially accountable.
B. Reporting entity
The City of Ames, Iowa (City) was incorporated in 1864 under the laws of the State of Iowa,
later amended in July 1975 under the Home Rule City Act. The City is a municipal corporation
governed by an elected mayor and six-member governing council. The accompanying financial
statements present the government and its component units, for which the City is considered
financially accountable. Blended component units are, in substance, part of the primary
government's operations, even though they are legally separate entities. Thus, blended
component units are appropriately presented as funds of the primary government. Each
discretely presented component unit is reported in a separate column in the government-wide
financial statements to emphasize that it is legally separate from the government.
Blended component unit. The City is the sole owner of a non-profit, municipal hospital, Mary
Greeley Medical Center (hospital). A separately elected board of trustees governs the hospital's
daily operations. The powers of the trustees are established by City ordinance, which limits both
the separate legal standing and fiscal independence of the hospital. The hospital is reported as
a blended component unit (an enterprise fund) under Governmental Accounting Standards
Board (GASB) Statement No. 80, Blending Requirements for Certain Component Units.
Financial statements for the hospital are available at Mary Greeley Medical Center, 1111 Duff
Avenue, Ames, Iowa, 50010.
Discretely presented component unit. The Mary Greeley Medical Center Foundation
(foundation) is a legally separate component unit of the hospital. A majority of resources, and
income thereon, which the foundation holds and invests, are restricted to the activities of the
hospital by the donors. The foundation’s financial statements are available at Mary Greeley
Medical Center, 1111 Duff Avenue, Ames, Iowa, 50010.
37
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
I. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
C. Basis of presentation - government-wide financial statements
While separate government-wide and fund financial statements are presented, they are
interrelated. The governmental activities column incorporates data from governmental funds
and certain internal service funds, while business-type activities incorporate data from the
government's enterprise funds and the remaining portion of the internal service funds. Separate
financial statements are provided for governmental funds, proprietary funds, and fiduciary
funds, even though the latter are excluded from the government-wide financial statements.
As discussed earlier, the City has one discretely presented component unit. While it is not
considered a major component unit, it is nevertheless shown in a separate column in the
government-wide financial statements.
Generally, the effect of inter-fund activity has been eliminated from the government-wide
financial statements. Exceptions to this general rule are payments in lieu of taxes where the
amounts are reasonably equivalent in value to the inter-fund services provided and other charges
between the business-type functions and various other functions of the City. Elimination of
these charges would distort the direct costs and program revenues reported for the various
functions concerned.
D. Basis of presentation - fund financial statements
The fund financial statements provide information about the government's funds, including its
fiduciary funds. Separate statements for each fund category - governmental, proprietary, and
fiduciary - are presented. The emphasis of fund financial statements is on major governmental
and enterprise funds, each displayed in a separate column. All remaining governmental and
enterprise funds are aggregated and reported as non-major funds. Major individual
governmental and enterprise funds are reported as separate columns in the fund financial
statements.
The City reports the following major governmental funds:
The General Fund, the City's primary operating fund, accounts for all financial resources of
the general government, except those accounted for in another fund.
The Capital Projects Fund accounts for the acquisition and construction of the City's capital
facilities, other than those financed by proprietary funds.
The Debt Service Fund is used to account for the accumulation of resources that are
restricted, committed, or assigned for the payment of principal and interest on long-term
obligations of governmental funds.
38
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
I. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
D. Basis of presentation – fund financial statements (continued)
The City reports the following major enterprise funds:
The Mary Greeley Medical Center Fund accounts for the operation of a municipally owned,
full-service medical care hospital.
The Electric Fund accounts for the operation of a municipally owned electric plant, which
generates and distributes electrical power to residents of the City and some contiguous areas.
The Sewer Fund accounts for the activities related to the operation of a sanitary distribution
system and the sewer treatment plant.
The Water Fund accounts for the operation of the City-owned water plant, which provides
water services to residents of the City and some contiguous areas.
Additionally, the City reports the following fund types:
Internal service funds account for the fleet services, information services, risk management,
and health insurance for City employees. These services are provided to other departments
and agencies of the City on a cost-reimbursement basis.
Agency funds account for payroll tax withholdings and employee flexible benefits collected
by the City on behalf of individuals, private organizations, and other governments.
During the course of operations, the government has activity between funds for various
purposes. Any residual balances outstanding at year-end are reported as due from/to other funds.
While these balances are reported in the fund financial statements, certain eliminations are made
in the preparation of the government-wide financial statements. Balances between the funds
included in governmental activities (i.e., the governmental and some internal service funds) are
eliminated so that only the net amount is included as internal balances in the governmental
activities column. Similarly, balances between the funds included in business-type activities
(i.e., the enterprise funds and some internal service funds) are eliminated so that only the net
amount is included as internal balances in the business-type activities column.
Further, certain activity occurs during the year involving transfers of resources between funds.
In the fund financial statements, these amounts are reported at gross amounts as transfers in/out.
While reported in the fund financial statements, certain eliminations are made in the preparation
of the government-wide financial statements. Transfers between the funds included in
governmental activities are eliminated so that only the net amount is included as a transfer in
the governmental activities column. Similarly, balances between the funds included in business-
type activities are eliminated so that only the net amount is included as a transfer in the business-
type activities column.
39
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
I. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
D. Basis of presentation – fund financial statements (continued)
E. Measurement focus and basis of accounting
The accounting and financial reporting treatment is determined by the applicable measurement
focus and basis of accounting. Measurement focus indicates the type of resources being
measured such as current financial resources or economic resources. The basis of accounting
indicates the timing of transactions or events for recognition in the financial statements.
The government-wide financial statements are reported using the economic resources
measurement focus and the accrual basis of accounting. Revenues are recorded when earned
and expenses are recorded when a liability is incurred, regardless of the timing of related cash
flows. Property taxes are recognized as revenues in the year for which they are levied. Grants
and similar items are recognized as revenue as soon as all eligibility requirements imposed by
the provider have been met.
The governmental fund financial statements are reported using the current financial resources
measurement focus and the modified accrual basis of accounting. Revenues are recognized as
soon as they are both measurable and available. Revenues are considered available when they
are collectible within the current period or soon enough thereafter to pay liabilities of the current
period. For this purpose, the City considers revenues available if they are collected within 60
days of the end of the current fiscal period. Expenditures generally are recorded when a liability
is incurred, as under accrual accounting. However, debt service expenditures, as well as
expenditures related to compensated absences, and claims and judgments, are recorded only
when payment is due. General capital asset acquisitions are reported as expenditures in
governmental funds. Issuance of long-term debt and acquisitions under capital leases are
reported as other financing sources.
Property taxes, sales taxes, franchise taxes, licenses, and interest associated with the current
fiscal period are all considered to be susceptible to accrual and so have been recognized as
revenues of the current fiscal period. Only the portion of special assessments receivable within
the current fiscal period is considered revenue of the current fiscal period. Entitlements are
recorded as revenues when all eligibility requirements are met, including any time requirements,
and the amount is received during the period or within the availability period for this revenue
source (within 60 days of year-end). Expenditure-driven grants are recognized as revenue when
the qualifying expenditures have been incurred, all other eligibility requirements have been met,
and the amount is received during the period or within the availability period for this revenue
source (within 60 days of year-end). All other revenue items are considered measurable and
available only when cash is received by the government.
40
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
I. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
E. Measurement focus and basis of accounting (continued)
The proprietary funds are reported using the economic resources measurement focus and the
accrual basis of accounting. The agency funds have no measurement focus but utilize the
accrual basis of accounting for reporting its assets and liabilities.
F. Budgetary information
1. Budgetary basis of accounting
State law mandates that annual budgets for funds other than agency and internal service funds
be certified to the County Auditor no later than March 31 preceding the fiscal year beginning
July 1.
The review and adoption of an annual budget is handled in accordance with state laws, as
there is no City ordinance governing the budget process. Preliminary review of all operating
budget requests is conducted by the City Manager at a City government function level. A
five-year capital improvements plan is prepared annually, and the first-year portion of the
plan is considered as the capital improvements projects budget for the annual budget. The
City Manager's budget, considered as a plan of financial operation along with proposed
sources of revenues, is presented to the City Council at least six weeks prior to certification.
The Council holds hearings with the City Manager, Budget Officer, department heads, and
boards and commissions, as well as the public prior to adopting the budget.
Amendments to the budget are considered three times per year, only if revenue sources are
available (i.e., unanticipated revenues or budget surpluses). There can be no additional levy
of property taxes. The actual amendment process, as prescribed by state law, is identical to
the procedures followed for the original budget, including certification. The budgeted
amounts presented in the required supplementary information reflect the original and the
revised budget.
Budgets are monitored throughout the fiscal year by function, especially by major
classifications such as personnel, capital, contractual, and commodities expenditures. Special
revenue funds are budgeted at the aggregate fund level. Monthly reports are prepared by
function, and major deviations by classification within a function must be approved by the
City Manager. The legal level of control (the level on which expenditures may not legally
exceed appropriations) is the function level for all budgeted funds in total. The budgetary
comparison and related disclosures are reported as required supplementary information.
The City prepares its budget on a basis consistent with accounting principles generally
accepted in the United States of America, except that the enterprise funds do not budget
depreciation expense and do budget for debt service expenditures and capital outlay. Internal
service funds are not budgeted.
41
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
I. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
F. Budgetary information (continued)
1. Budgetary basis of accounting (continued)
Appropriations in all budgeted funds lapse at the end of the fiscal year, even if they have
related encumbrances. Encumbrances are commitments related to unperformed (executory)
contracts for goods or services (i.e., purchase orders, contracts, and commitments).
Encumbrance accounting is utilized to the extent necessary to ensure effective budgetary
control and accountability and to facilitate effective cash planning and control. While all
appropriations and encumbrances lapse at year-end, valid outstanding encumbrances roll
forward and become part of the subsequent year's budget.
2. Excess of expenditures over appropriations
No expenditures exceeded appropriations for the year ended June 30, 2020.
G. Assets, liabilities, deferred outflows/inflows of resources, and net position/fund
balance
1. Cash and cash equivalents
The City's cash and cash equivalents are considered to be cash on hand, demand deposits,
and short-term investments with original maturities of three months or less from the date of
acquisition.
2. Investments
Investments of the City are reported at fair value (generally based on quoted market prices).
3. Inventories and prepaid items
Inventories are maintained on a perpetual basis. Materials, supplies, medical supplies, and
drugs are priced at an average cost. The cost of such inventories is recorded as
expenditures/expenses when consumed rather than when purchased. Real estate held for
resale is priced at cost.
Certain payments to vendors reflect costs applicable to future accounting periods and show
as prepaid items in both the government-wide and fund financial statements. The cost of
prepaid items is recorded as expenditures/expenses when consumed rather than when
purchased.
42
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
I. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
G. Assets, liabilities, deferred outflows/inflows of resources, and net position/fund
balance (continued)
4. Capital assets
Capital assets, which include property, plant, equipment, and infrastructure assets (e.g. roads,
traffic signals, bridges, and similar items), are reported in the applicable governmental or
business-type activities columns in the government-wide financial statements. The City
defines capital assets as assets with an initial, individual cost of more than $5,000 and an
estimated useful life in excess of one year.
In the case of the initial capitalization of general infrastructure assets (i.e., those reported by
governmental activities), the City chose to include all such items regardless of their
acquisition date or amount. The City was able to estimate the historical cost for the initial
reporting of these assets through back trending (i.e., estimating the current replacement cost
of the infrastructure to be capitalized and using an appropriate price-level index to deflate
the cost to the acquisition year or estimated acquisition year). As the City constructs or
acquires additional capital assets each period, including infrastructure assets, they are
capitalized and reported at historical cost. The reported value excludes normal maintenance
and repairs, which are essentially amounts spent in relation to capital assets that do not
increase the capacity or efficiency of the item or increase its estimated useful life. Donated
capital assets are recorded at acquisition value, which is the price that would have been paid
to acquire a capital asset with equivalent service potential.
Land, public art, and construction in progress are not depreciated. The other property, plant,
equipment, and infrastructure of the City are depreciated using the straight-line method over
the following estimated useful lives:
Capital Asset Class Life in Years
Buildings 25-45
Improvements 20-40
Machinery and Equipment 3-50
General Infrastructure 15-50
Plant and Distribution System 25-50
5. Deferred outflows/inflows of resources
In addition to assets, the statement of financial position will sometimes report a separate
section for deferred outflows of resources. This separate financial statement element,
deferred outflows of resources, represents a consumption of net position applicable to a
future period(s) and is not recognized as an outflow of resources (expense/expenditure) until
then. The City reports deferred outflows of resources for unrecognized items not yet charged
43
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
I. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
G. Assets, liabilities, deferred outflows/inflows of resources, and net position/fund
balance (continued)
5. Deferred outflows/inflows of resources (continued)
to pension and OPEB expense and pension contributions from the employer after the
measurement date but before the end of the employer's reporting period. The City also reports
deferred charges on refunding in this category, which results from the difference in the
carrying value of refunded debt and its reacquisition price. This amount is deferred and
amortized over the shorter of the life of the refunded or refunding debt.
In addition to liabilities, the statement of financial position will sometimes report a separate
section for deferred inflows of resources. This separate financial statement element, deferred
inflows of resources, represents an acquisition of net position applicable to a future period(s)
and is recognized as an inflow of resources (revenue) until that time. The governmental funds
report unavailable revenues from six sources: property taxes, special assessments,
hotel/motel taxes, charges for services, grants, and refunds. The government-wide statement
of net position reports unavailable revenues from property taxes, changes resulting from
assumptions made in the actuarial valuations for pensions and OPEB, and deferred charges
on refunding. These amounts are recognized as an inflow of resources in the period that the
amounts become available.
6. Pensions
For purposes of measuring the net pension liability, deferred outflows of resources and
deferred inflows of resources related to pensions, and pension expense, information about
the fiduciary net position of the Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS) and
Municipal Fire and Police Retirement System of Iowa (MFPRSI) and additions to/deductions
from IPERS's/MFPRSI's fiduciary net position have been determined on the same basis as
they are reported by IPERS/MFPRSI. For this purpose, benefit payments (including refunds
of employee contributions) are recognized when due and payable in accordance with the
benefit terms. Investments are reported at fair value. The net pension liability attributable to
the governmental activities will be paid primarily by the General Fund.
7. Total other post-employment benefits (OPEB) liability
For purposes of measuring total OPEB liability, deferred outflows of resources and deferred
inflows of resources related to OPEB, and OPEB expense, information has been determined
based on the City's actuarial reports. For this purpose, benefit payments are recognized when
due and payable in accordance with the benefit terms. The total OPEB liability attributable
to the governmental activities will be paid primarily by the General Fund.
44
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
I. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
G. Assets, liabilities, deferred outflows/inflows or resources, and net position/fund
balance (continued)
8. Net position flow assumption
Sometimes the City will fund outlays for a particular purpose from both restricted (e.g.,
restricted bond or grant proceeds) and unrestricted resources. In order to calculate the
amounts to report as restricted and unrestricted net position in the government-wide and
proprietary fund financial statements, a flow assumption must be made about the order in
which the resources are applied. It is the City's policy to consider restricted net position to
have been depleted before unrestricted net position.
9. Fund balance flow assumptions
Sometimes the City will fund outlays for a particular purpose from both restricted and
unrestricted resources (the total of committed, assigned, and unassigned fund balance). In
order to calculate the amounts to report as restricted, committed, assigned, and unassigned
fund balance in the governmental fund financial statements, a flow assumption must be made
about the order in which the resources are applied. It is the City's policy to consider restricted
fund balance to have been depleted before using any of the components of unrestricted fund
balance. Further, when the components of unrestricted fund balance can be used for the same
purpose, committed fund balance is depleted first, followed by assigned fund balance.
Unassigned fund balance is applied last.
10. Fund balance policies
Fund balance of governmental funds is reported in various categories based on the nature of
any limitations requiring the use of resources for specific purposes. The City itself can
establish limitations on the use of resources through either a commitment (committed fund
balance) or an assignment (assigned fund balance).
The committed fund balance classification includes amounts that can be used only for the
specific purposes determined by a formal action of the City's highest level of decision-
making authority. The City Council is the highest level of decision-making authority for the
City that can, by adoption of an ordinance prior to the end of the fiscal year, commit fund
balance. Once adopted, the limitation imposed by the ordinance remains in place until a
similar action is taken (the adoption of another ordinance) to remove or revise the limitation.
Amounts in the assigned fund balance classification are intended to be used by the City for
specific purposes but do not meet the criteria to be classified as committed. The City Council
has authorized the Finance Director to assign fund balance through the approval of the annual
budget. The City Council may also assign fund balance as it does when appropriating fund
balance to cover a gap between estimated revenue and appropriations in the subsequent year's
45
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
I. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
H. Revenues and expenditures/expenses (continued)
4. Compensated absences (continued)
appropriated budget. Unlike commitments, assignments generally only exist temporarily. In
other words, an additional action does not normally have to be taken for the removal of an
assignment. Conversely, as discussed above, an additional action is essential to either remove
or revise a commitment.
H. Revenues and expenditures/expenses
1. Program revenues
Amounts reported as program revenues include 1) charges to customers or applicants who
purchase, use, or directly benefit from goods, services, or privileges provided by a given
function or segment; and 2) grants and contributions (including special assessments) that are
restricted to meeting the operational or capital requirements of a particular function or
segment. All taxes, including those dedicated for specific purposes, and other internally
dedicated resources are reported as general revenues rather than program revenues.
2. Property taxes
Property taxes are attached as an enforceable lien on real property and are levied on July 1
prior to the fiscal year for which they are to be collected. The tax levy is divided into two
billings with one-half due September 30 and the other half due March 31.
3. Net patient service revenue
Net patient service revenue of the hospital is reported at the estimated net realizable amounts
from patients, third-party payers, and others for services rendered. Retroactive adjustments
under reimbursement agreements with third-party payers are accrued on an estimated basis
in the period the related services are rendered and adjusted in future periods as final
settlements are determined. Net patient service revenue is reported net of provision for bad
debts, which the hospital also refers to as uncompensated care.
4. Compensated absences
The City's policy permits employees to accumulate earned but unused vacation and
compensatory time benefits, which are eligible for payment upon separation from
government service. The liability for such leave is reported as incurred in the government-
wide and proprietary fund financial statements. A liability for those amounts is recorded in
the governmental funds only if the liability has matured because of employee resignations or
46
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
I. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
H. Revenues and expenditures/expenses (continued)
4. Compensated absences (continued)
retirements. The liability for compensated absences includes salary-related benefits, where
applicable.
Sick leave. Accumulated sick leave in excess of 720 hours may be paid out at 25% of the
accumulated hours upon retirement only.
5. Proprietary funds operating and non-operating revenues and expenses
Proprietary funds distinguish operating revenues and expenses from non-operating items.
Operating revenues and expenses generally result from providing services and producing and
delivering goods in connection with a proprietary fund's principal ongoing operations. The
principal operating revenues of the enterprise and internal service funds are charges to
customers for sales and services. Operating expenses for enterprise and internal service funds
include the cost of sales and services, administrative expenses, and depreciation on capital
assets. All revenues and expenses not meeting this definition are reported as non-operating
revenues and expenses.
II. Reconciliation of government-wide and fund financial statements
A. Explanation of certain differences between the governmental fund balance sheet and
the government-wide statement of net position
The governmental fund balance sheet includes a reconciliation between fund balance - total
governmental funds and net position of governmental activities as reported in the government-
wide statement of net position. One element of that reconciliation explains that, "Capital assets
used in governmental activities are not financial resources and, therefore, are not reported in the
funds." The details of this $180,984,357 are as follows:
fund balance - total governmental funds
net position in governmental activities
47
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
II. Reconciliation of government-wide and fund financial statements (continued)
A. Explanation of certain difference between the governmental fund balance sheet and
the government-wide statement of net position (continued)
Another element of that reconciliation explains, "Internal service funds are used by management
to charge the costs of fleet management, information services, risk management, and health
insurance to individual funds. The assets and liabilities of internal service funds are split
between the governmental and business-type activities in the statement of net position." The
details of this $20,417,791 are as follows:
B. Explanation of certain differences between the governmental fund statement of
revenues, expenditures, and changes in fund balances and the government-wide
statement of activities
The governmental fund statement of revenues, expenditures, and changes in fund balances
includes a reconciliation between net changes in fund balances - total governmental funds and
changes in net position of governmental activities as reported in the government-wide statement
of activities. One element of that reconciliation states that, "The internal service funds are used
by management to charge the costs of fleet management, information services, risk
management, and health insurance to individual funds. The net revenue of certain activities of
internal service funds is reported with both governmental and business-type activities." The
details of this $1,527,416 are as follows:
net changes in fund balances - total
governmental funds to arrive at changes in net position of
governmental activities 1,527,416$
III. Stewardship, compliance, and accountability
A. Violations of legal or contractual provisions
As stated in Note I(F)(2), Excess of expenditures over appropriations, there were no budgetary
violations that occurred in the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020.
48
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
III. Stewardship, compliance, and accountability (continued)
B. Deficit fund equity
At June 30, 2020, the TIF fund, a non-major special revenue fund, had a deficit fund balance of
$179,266. The incremental property tax revenue will increase in future years to offset the
transfers to the Debt Service Fund and reverse the deficit.
The FEMA fund had a deficit fund balance of $99,228 at June 30, 2020. The deficit was due to
expenses incurred during the fiscal year as a result of the COVID pandemic. The offset will
occur in future years with the award of federal grants issued to recover from the impacts of
COVID.
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds
A. Cash deposits with financial institutions
Custodial credit risk - deposits. In the case of deposits, this is the risk that in the event of a bank
failure, the City's deposits may not be returned to it. The City does not have a deposit policy for
custodial credit risk. As of June 30, 2020, the City's deposits were entirely covered by federal
depository insurance or collateralized in accordance with Chapter 12c of the Code of Iowa. This
chapter provides for additional assessments against the depositories to ensure there will be no
loss of public funds. The amount of pledged collateral is based on an approved method for non-
interest-bearing deposits and the actual current balance for interest-bearing deposits.
Depositories using this method report the adequacy of their pooled collateral covering uninsured
deposits to the State Treasurer, who does not confirm the information with the City. Because of
the inability to measure the exact amounts of collateral pledged for the City under this method,
the potential exists for under collateralization, and this risk may increase in periods of high cash
flows. However, the State Treasurer enforces strict standards of financial stability for each
depository that collateralizes public deposits.
B. Investments
The following table identifies the investment types that are authorized for the City by its
investment policy. The hospital is guided in the selection of security investments by Chapters
12b and 12c of the Code of Iowa and policy, as approved by the board of trustees. The City's
investment policy classifies certificates of deposit (CDs) as investments and all CDs purchased
by the City are non-negotiable. However, under generally accepted accounting principles
(GAAP), non-negotiable CDs are cash deposits instead of investments. The table also identifies
certain provisions of the investment policy that address interest rate risk, credit risk, and
concentration of credit risk.
49
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
B. Investments (continued)
At June 30, 2020, the City had the following investments:
The City categorizes its fair value measurement within the fair value hierarchy established by
generally accepted accounting principles. The hierarchy is based on the valuation inputs used
to measure the fair value of the asset. Level 1 inputs are quoted prices in active markets for
identical assets. Level 2 inputs are significant other observable inputs. Level 3 inputs are
significant unobservable inputs.
50
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
B. Investments (continued)
All of the City's investments are valued using level 1 inputs, except for U.S. Agencies and U.S.
Treasuries, which are valued by the custodians of the securities using pricing models based on
credit quality, time to maturity, stated interest rates, and market-rate assumptions (level 2
inputs). There have been no changes in valuation methodologies at June 30, 2020 compared to
June 30, 2019.
Interest rate risk. One of the ways that the City manages exposure to interest rate risk is by
purchasing a combination of short- and long-term investments and by timing cash flows from
maturities so that a portion of the portfolio is maturing, or coming close to maturity, evenly over
time as necessary to provide the cash flow and liquidity needed for operations. Investments are
purchased with the intent to hold until maturity.
The following provides information about the sensitivity of the fair values of the City’s
investments to market interest rate fluctuations:
Credit risk. The City will minimize credit risk by using the following measures:
1. Limiting investments to those authorized by the investment policy,
2. Pre-qualifying the financial institutions, broker/dealers, intermediaries, and advisors with
whom the City will do business,
3. Diversifying the investment portfolio by agency and issuer so that potential losses on
individual securities can be minimized, and
4. Holding a minimum of 5% of the total portfolio in highly marketable, short-term
treasuries, checking accounts with interest, government pooled accounts, or a
combination of all three.
51
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
B. Investments (continued)
The following shows the actual ratings as of June 30, 2020, for each investment type:
Concentration of credit risk. The City's investment policy provides limitations on the amount
that can be invested in any one issuer, which is approved by City Council. Investments in any
one issuer that represent 5% or more of total City investments are as follows:
Custodial credit risk - investments. For an investment, this is the risk that, in the event of the
failure of the counterparty, the City will not be able to recover the value of its investments or
collateral securities that are in the possession of an outside party. The following outlines the
requirements in the City's investment policy to limit the exposure to custodial credit risk for
deposits or investments:
1. All trades, where applicable, will be executed by delivery vs. payment (DVP) to ensure
that securities are deposited in an eligible financial institution prior to the release of
funds. Securities will be held by a third-party custodian as evidenced by safekeeping
receipts,
2. City investment officials shall be bonded to protect loss of public funds against possible
embezzlement and/or malfeasance, and
52
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
B. Investments (continued)
3. The Investment Officer is responsible for establishing and maintaining an internal control
structure designed to ensure that the assets of the City are protected from loss, theft, or
misuse. The internal controls shall address the following points:
a. Control of collusion,
b. Separation of transaction authority from accounting and record keeping,
c. Custodial safekeeping,
d. Delivery versus payment,
e. Clear delegation of authority, and
f. Confirmation of transactions for investments and wire transfers.
As of June 30, 2020, the City’s investments in the following were held by the same third-party
custodian that was used by the City to buy the securities and evidenced by safekeeping receipts:
Foreign currency risk. As of June 30, 2020, the City had no exposure to foreign currency rate
risk.
The City has a written investment policy, approved by the City Council, which addresses the
different areas of risk. The policy is available for review in the offices of the City Clerk and the
City Treasurer, and on the City's website.
C. Foundation investments
The foundation follows Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) standards. As such,
adoption of Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement No. 40, Deposit
and Investment Risk Disclosures, was not required by the foundation and, accordingly, no such
disclosures are presented here.
All of the foundation's investments are valued using level 1 inputs.
53
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
C. Foundation investments (continued)
The following is a detail of the foundation's investments at June 30, 2020:
D. Receivables
All utility and hospital accounts receivable are shown net of an allowance for uncollectible
accounts. Property tax receivable is shown at a gross amount since they are assessed to the
property and collectible upon sale of the property.
E. Capital assets
Capital asset activity for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020, is as follows:
Governmental activities:June 30, 2019 Increases Decreases June 30, 2020
Non-depreciable capital assets:
Land 13,021,910$ 215,859$ -$ 13,237,769$
Land improvements 1,384,118 - - 1,384,118
Public art collection 579,101 19,225 - 598,326
Construction in progress 7,543,353 7,694,685 (3,671,909) 11,566,129
Total non-depreciable capital
assets 22,528,482 7,929,769 (3,671,909) 26,786,342
Depreciable capital assets:
Buildings 37,998,297 15,380 - 38,013,677
Equipment 28,417,256 2,835,162 (1,052,995) 30,199,423
Infrastructure 266,439,629 5,331,821 (639,696) 271,131,754
332,855,182 8,182,363 (1,692,691) 339,344,854
Less accumulated depreciation:
Buildings 10,685,668 979,607 - 11,665,275
Equipment 15,264,875 2,247,209 (799,777) 16,712,307
Infrastructure 138,008,548 9,178,360 (610,896) 146,576,012
163,959,091 12,405,176 (1,410,673) 174,953,594
Total depreciable capital assets 168,896,091 (4,222,813) (282,018) 164,391,260
Total capital assets 191,424,573$ 3,706,956$ (3,953,927)$ 191,177,602$
54
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
E. Capital assets (continued)
Depreciation expense was charged to functions of the governmental activities of the primary
government as follows:
Business-type activities:June 30, 2019 Increases Decreases June 30, 2020
Non-depreciable capital assets:
Land 12,597,856$ 73,600$ -$ 12,671,456$
Construction in progress 19,542,515 29,564,932 (26,556,669) 22,550,778
Total non-depreciable capital
assets 32,140,371 29,638,532 (26,556,669) 35,222,234
Depreciable capital assets:
Plant and distribution systems 417,365,565 12,266,892 (104,667) 429,527,790
Buildings 285,196,966 9,594,607 (2,385,686) 292,405,887
Equipment 167,609,719 8,794,264 (6,499,070) 169,904,913
Improvements 5,095,083 2,032,594 - 7,127,677
875,267,333 32,688,357 (8,989,423) 898,966,267
Less accumulated depreciation:
Plant and distribution systems 200,719,987 9,070,321 (101,847) 209,688,461
Buildings 111,490,398 11,017,733 (2,359,978) 120,148,153
Equipment 129,351,239 8,801,448 (6,458,117) 131,694,570
Improvements 2,052,236 215,793 - 2,268,029
443,613,860 29,105,295 (8,919,942) 463,799,213
Total depreciable capital assets 431,653,473 3,583,062 (69,481) 435,167,054
Total capital assets 463,793,844$ 33,221,594$ (26,626,150)$ 470,389,288$
F. Pension obligations
The City participates in two public pension systems, Iowa Public Employees Retirement System
(IPERS) and Municipal Fire and Police Retirement System of Iowa (MFPRSI). The following
sections outline the pension-related disclosures for each plan. The aggregate amount of
recognized expense for the period associated with the net pension liability for both plans is
55
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
F. Pension obligations (continued)
$15,881,657. Other aggregate amounts related to pension are separately displayed in the
financial statements.
Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS)
Plan description. The City participates in IPERS, a cost sharing, multiple-employer, defined
benefit pension plan administered by the State of Iowa. IPERS provides retirement, disability,
and death benefits to eligible members and beneficiaries. State statutes authorize the State to
establish and amend all plan provisions. The State issues a publicly available financial report,
which includes financial statements and required supplementary information. This may be
obtained either at www.ipers.org or by written request to IPERS, P.O. Box 9117, Des Moines,
IA, 50306-9117.
Funding policy. Iowa state law requires participating employers and members to contribute to
IPERS. The Iowa Legislature and the Governor determine the positions of employment in each
membership class and the benefits provided. Most members (95%) are regular members. The
other 5% are special service members who work in public safety jobs.
IPERS sets the regular member contribution rates using an annual actuarial valuation, which is
a snapshot of IPERS's finances; however, the combined employer and member rate may not
change by more than 1.0 percentage point each year. Rates for special service members are
actuarially determined each year.
During the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020, regular members contributed 6.29% and the City
contributed 9.44% of covered wages. Rates for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2020, are the
same. Emergency responder members contributed 6.61%, and the hospital contributed 9.91%
of covered wages for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020. As of July 1, 2020, the rates for
emergency responders are 6.41% for members and 9.61% for the City. The City's total
contributions to IPERS for the years ended June 30, 2020, 2019, and 2018 were $9,139,672,
$8,567,465, $7,862,807, respectively, and were equal to 100% of the required contributions for
each year.
Pension liabilities, pension expense, and deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows
of resources related to pensions. At June 30, 2020, the City reported a liability of $67,695,565
for its proportionate share of the net pension liability. The net pension liability was measured
as of June 30, 2019, and the total pension liability used to calculate the net pension liability was
determined by an actuarial valuation as of that date. The City's proportion of the net pension
liability was based on a projection of the City's long-term share of contributions to the pension
plan relative to the projected contributions of all employers participating in IPERS, actuarially
determined. At June 30, 2019, the City's proportion was 1.1690%, which is an increase of
0.0173% from its proportion measured as of June 30, 2018.
56
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
F. Pension obligations (continued)
For the year ended June 30, 2020, the City recognized pension expense of $12,182,499. At June
30, 2020, the City reported deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources
related to pensions from the following sources:
$9,139,672 reported as deferred outflows of resources related to pensions resulting from City
contributions subsequent to the measurement date will be recognized as a reduction of the net
pension liability in the year ended June 30, 2021. Other amounts reported as deferred outflows
of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to pensions will be recognized in pension
expense as follows:
There were no non-employer contributing entities at IPERS.
57
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
F. Pension obligations (continued)
Actuarial assumptions. The total pension liability in the June 30, 2019 actuarial valuation was
determined using the following actuarial assumptions, applied to all periods included in the
measurement:
Inflation rate 2.60% per annum
Payroll increase assumption 3.25%
Projected salary increases 3.25%-16.25%, depending upon years of
service
Assumed investment return 7.00%, compounded annually, net of
investment expense, including inflation
The actuarial assumptions used in the June 30, 2019 valuation are based on the results of the
most recent actuarial experience studies. An experience study of IPERS’s demographic
assumptions was presented to the investment board in June 2018. This study included
information on mortality, retirement, disability, and termination rates, as well as salary trends,
for the period of July 1, 2013 through June 30, 2017. At the investment board’s direction, the
experience study of IPERS’s economic assumptions, including the long-term rate of return, was
accelerated a year resulting in a full review of the economic assumptions in early 2017. The
findings of the experience study on economic assumptions, along with the resulting
recommendations, are included in the report dated March 24, 2017.
Mortality rates were based on the RP-2014 Employee and Healthy Annuitant Tables, with MP-
2017 generational adjustments.
Several factors are considered in evaluating the actuarial assumed investment return, including
long-term historical data, estimates inherent in current market data, along with estimates of
variability and correlations for each asset class, and an analysis in which best-estimate ranges
of expected future real rates of return (expected returns, net of investment expense and inflation)
were developed by the investment consultant. These ranges were combined to develop the
actuarial assumed investment return by weighting the expected future real rates of return by the
target asset allocation percentage and then adding expected inflation. The actuarial assumed
investment return reflects the anticipated returns on current and future plan assets, and provides
a discount rate to determine the present value of future benefit payments.
58
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
F. Pension obligations (continued)
The target allocation and best estimates of arithmetic real rates of return for each major asset
class as of June 30, 2020 are summarized in the following table:
Discount rate. The discount rate used to calculate the total pension liability is 7.00%. The
projection of cash flows used to determine the discount rate assumed that contributions from
employees and employers will be made at the contractually required rates, which are set by the
Contribution Rate Funding Policy and derived from the actuarial valuation. Based on those
assumptions, the pension plan's fiduciary net position is projected to be available to make all
projected future benefit payments of current plan members. Therefore, the actuarial assumed
investment return was applied to all periods of projected benefit payments to determine the total
pension liability.
Sensitivity of the City's proportionate share of the net pension liability to changes in the discount
rate. The following presents the City's proportionate share of the net pension liability calculated
using the discount rate of 7.00%, as well as what the City's proportionate share of the net pension
liability would be if it were calculated using a discount rate that is one percentage point lower
(6.00%) or one percentage point higher (8.00%) than the current rate:
59
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
F. Pension obligations (continued)
Pension plan fiduciary net position. Detailed information about the pension plan's fiduciary net
position is available in the separately issued IPERS financial report, which is available on the
IPERS website at www.ipers.org.
Payables to the pension plan. At June 30, 2020, the City reported a payable to the defined
benefit pension plan of $1,709,650 for legally required employer contributions and employee
contributions that were withheld from employee wages but not yet remitted to IPERS.
Municipal Fire and Police Retirement System of Iowa (MFPRSI)
Plan description. The City also participates in the MFPRSI, which provides retirement,
disability, and death benefits for firefighters and police officers. MFPRSI was created under
Chapter 411 of the Code of Iowa, effective January 1, 1992, to replace the fire and police
retirement systems in 49 cities in Iowa. It is a cost-sharing, multiple-employer defined benefit
pension plan. A board of nine voting and four non-voting members is the policy-making body
for the system. MFPRSI issues publicly available financial reports, which include financial
statements and required supplementary information for the plan. The reports may be obtained
by contacting MFPRSI at 7155 Lake Drive, Suite 201, West Des Moines, IA, 50266.
Funding policy. The contribution rate structure is established by Chapter 411 of the Code of
Iowa. The member contribution rate, currently at 9.40%, is set by state statute. The rate for the
City is established each year by the board of trustees following the completion of an annual
actuarial valuation. The City's rate for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020, was 24.41%. As of
July 1, 2020, the rate is 25.31%. The City's total contributions to MFPRSI for the years ended
June 30, 2020, 2019, and 2018 were $2,076,217, $2,097,820, and $2,030,080, respectively, and
were equal to 100 percent of the required contributions for each year.
If approved by the state legislature, state appropriation may further reduce the employer's
contribution rate, but not below the minimum statutory contribution rate of 17.00% of earnable
compensation. The State of Iowa, therefore, is considered a non-employer contributing entity
in accordance with the provisions of GASB Statement No. 67 - Financial Reporting for Pension
Plans.
There were no state appropriations to MFPRSI during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020.
Pension liabilities, pension expense, and deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows
of resources related to pensions. At June 30, 2020, the City reported a liability of $17,470,814
for its proportionate share of the net pension liability. The net pension liability was measured
as of June 30, 2019, and the total pension liability used to calculate the net pension liability was
determined by an actuarial valuation as of that date. The City's proportion of the net pension
liability was based on the City's share of contributions to the pension plan relative to the
60
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
F. Pension obligations (continued)
contributions of all MFPRSI participating employers. At June 30, 2019, the City's proportion
was 2.66%, which is a decrease of 0.0562 from its proportion measured as of June 30, 2018.
For the year ended June 30, 2020, the City recognized pension expense of $3,699,020. At June
30, 2020, the City reported deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources
related to pensions from the following sources:
$2,076,217 reported as deferred outflows of resources related to pensions resulting from City
contributions subsequent to the measurement date will be recognized as a reduction of the net
pension liability in the year ending June 30, 2021. Other amounts reported as deferred outflows
of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to pensions will be recognized in pension
expense as follows:
61
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
F. Pension obligations (continued)
Actuarial assumptions. The total pension liability in the June 30, 2019 actuarial valuation was
determined using the following actuarial assumptions, applied to all periods included in the
measurement:
including inflation
The actuarial assumptions used in the June 30, 2019 valuation were based on the results of an
actuarial experience study for the period of July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2017. There were no
significant changes of benefit terms.
Mortality rates were based on RP 2014 Blue Collar Healthy Annuitant table with males set
forward zero years, females set forward two years, and disabled persons set forward three years
(male only rates), with generational projection of future mortality improvement with 50% of
Scale BB beginning in 2017.
The investment policy and decisions are governed by the board of trustees. The long-term
expected rate of return on pension plan investments was determined using a building-block
method in which best-estimate ranges of expected future real rates of return (expected returns,
net of pension plan investment expense and inflation) are developed for each major asset class.
These ranges are combined to produce the long-term expected rate of return by weighting the
expected future real rates of return by the target asset allocation percentage and by adding
expected inflation. Best estimates of geometric real rates of return for each major asset class
included in the pension plan's target asset allocations are summarized in the following table:
62
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
F. Pension obligations (continued)
Discount rate. The discount rate used to measure the total pension liability was 7.50%. The
projection of cash flows used to determine the discount rate assumed that plan member
contributions will be made at the current contribution rate and that City contributions will be
made at rates equal to the difference between actuarially determined contribution rates and the
member rate. Based on those assumptions, the pension plan's fiduciary net position was
projected to be available to make all future benefit payments of current plan members.
Therefore, the long-term expected rate of return on pension plan investments was applied to all
periods of projected benefit payments to determine the total pension liability.
Sensitivity of the City's proportionate share of the net pension liability to changes in the discount
rate. The following presents the City's proportionate share of the net pension liability calculated
using the discount rate of 7.50%, as well as what the City's proportionate share of the net pension
liability would be if it were calculated using a discount rate that is one percentage point lower
(6.50%) or one percentage point higher (8.50%) that the current rate:
63
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
F. Pension obligations (continued)
Pension plan fiduciary net position. Detailed information about the pension plan's fiduciary net
position is available in the separately issued MFPRSI financial report, which is available on the
MFPRSI website at www.mfprsi.org.
Payables to the pension plan. At June 30, 2020, the City did not have a payable to the defined
benefit pension plan.
Ames Municipal Utility Retirement Plan
Plan description. The Ames Municipal Retirement Plan (utility plan) was created by resolution
of the City Council and is administered by the City. It is a single-employer, defined contribution
plan for employees who regularly receive more than 10% of their compensation from a utility
fund of the City. The City Council has authorization to amend plan provisions and contribution
rates. An eleven-member board monitors, reviews, and evaluates on a continuing basis, the
performance of the utility plan. The board submits a written report of its findings and
recommendations at least once each fiscal year. These reports may be obtained at the City's
offices.
Summary of significant accounting policies - basis of accounting and valuation of investments.
The utility plan uses the accrual basis of accounting. Plan member contributions are recognized
in the period in which the contributions are due. The City's contributions are recognized when
due and a formal commitment to provide the contributions has been made. Benefits and refunds
are recognized when due and payable in accordance with terms of the plan. All plan investments
are reported at fair value. Securities traded on a national exchange are valued at the last reported
sales price. Securities without an established market value are reported at estimated fair value.
Funding policy. Participants contribute 5.40%, and the City contributes 7.93% of eligible
compensation. Participants may also make voluntary, unmatched contributions up to 25% of
the participant's annual compensation. Participant contributions were $355,367, and City
contributions were $513,961 for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020.
G. Other post-employment benefit (OPEB) obligations
The City participates in two OPEB plans, the City's OPEB plan and the hospital's OPEB plan.
The following sections outline the OPEB-related disclosures for each plan. The aggregate
amount of recognized OPEB expense for the period associated with the total OPEB liability for
both plans is $415,384. Other aggregate amounts related to OPEB are separately displayed in
the financial statements.
64
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
G. Other post-employment benefit (OPEB) obligations (continued)
1. City's OPEB Plan
General Information about the OPEB Plan
Plan description. The City provides health and dental care benefits for retired employees and
their beneficiaries through a single-employer, defined benefit plan. The City has the authority
to establish and amend benefit provisions of the plan. No assets are accumulated in a trust
that meets the criteria in paragraph 4 of Statement 75. The plan does not issue a stand-alone
financial report.
Participants must be at least 55 years old, have been employed by the City for the preceding
four years, and be enrolled in a sponsored insurance plan at the time of retirement. Benefits
terminate upon attaining Medicare eligibility. Retirees under age 65 pay the same premium
for the medical, prescription drug, and dental benefits as active employees, which results in
an implicit rate subsidy and an OPEB liability.
The contribution requirements of the City are established and may be amended by the City.
Plan members are currently not required to contribute. The City funds on a pay-as-you-go
basis.
Employees covered by benefit terms. At June 30, 2020, the following employees were
covered by the City's benefit terms:
65
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
G. Other post-employment benefit (OPEB) obligations (continued)
1. City's OPEB plan (continued)
Total OPEB Liability
The City's total OPEB liability of $2,501,421 was measured as of June 30, 2020 and was
determined by an actuarial valuation as June 30, 2020.
Actuarial assumptions and other inputs. The total OPEB liability in the June 30, 2020
actuarial valuation was determined using the following actuarial assumptions and other
inputs, applied to all periods included in the measurement, unless otherwise specified:
Inflation 3.0% per annum
Salary increases 3.25% per annum
Discount rate 2.21% per annum
Retiree share of benefit-related 100% of projected health insurance
premiums
The following annual health care cost trends are based on the current HCA Consulting trend
study and are applied on a select and ultimate basis. Select trends are reduced 0.5% each year
until reaching the ultimate trend rate.
Expense Type Select Ultimate
The discount rate was based on the Bond Buyer 20-Year Bond GO index.
Mortality rates were based on the RP-2014 generational table scaled using MP-2017 and
Pub-2010 mortality table with generational scale MP-2019.
The actuarial assumptions used in the June 30, 2020 valuation were based on the results of
an actuarial experience study for the period July 1, 2018 to June 30, 2020.
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City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
G. Other post-employment benefit (OPEB) obligations (continued)
1. City's OPEB plan (continued)
Changes in the Total OPEB Liability
Balance, beginning of year 2,063,885$
Changes for year year:
Service cost 140,814
Interest 74,532
Changes of benefit terms -
Differences between expected and
actual experience (374,352)
Changes in assumptions or other inputs 746,954
Benefit payments (150,412)
Net changes 437,536
Balance, end of year 2,501,421$
Sensitivity of the total OPEB liability to changes in the discount rate. The following presents
the total OPEB liability of the City, as well as what the City's total OPEB liability would be
if it were calculated using a discount rate that is one percentage point lower (1.21 percent) or
one percentage point higher (3.21 percent) than the current discount rate:
Sensitivity of the total OPEB liability to changes in the healthcare cost trend rates. The
following presents the total OPEB liability to the City, as well as what the City's total OPEB
liability would be if it were calculated using healthcare cost trend rates that are one
percentage point lower or one percentage point higher than the current healthcare cost trend
rates:
67
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
G. Other post-employment benefit (OPEB) obligations (continued)
1. City's OPEB plan (continued)
OPEB Expense and Deferred Outflows of Resources and Deferred Inflows of Resources
Related to OPEB
For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020, the City recognized OPEB expense of $247,042. At
June 30, 2020, the City reported deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of
resources related to OPEB from the following sources:
Amounts reported as deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related
to OPEB will be recognized in OPEB expense as follows:
68
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
G. Other post-employment benefit (OPEB) obligations (continued)
2. Hospital's OPEB plan
General Information about the OPEB Plan
Plan description. The hospital sponsors a single-employer health care plan that provides self-
insured medical and prescription drugs to all active and retired employees and their eligible
dependents. The hospital also provides a flat $2,500 life insurance benefit to retired
employees. Employees must be a minimum of 55 years old, have been employed at the
hospital for the preceding four years, and currently have hospital health insurance at the time
of retirement. Benefits terminate upon attaining Medicare eligibility. Eligible retirees receive
health care coverage through one medical plan. This is the same plan that is available for
active employees.
Contributions are required for both retiree and dependent coverage. The retiree contributions
are based on the historical full cost of active members. Retiree expenses are then offset by
monthly contributions.
Funding policy. The hospital, with assistance from the third-party administrator, establishes
and amends contribution requirements for both active and retiree members on an annual
basis. The current funding policy of the hospital is to pay health claims as they occur. This
arrangement does not qualify as OPEB plan assets under GASB for current GASB reporting.
The required contribution is based on projected pay-as-you-go financing. For the fiscal year
ended June 30, 2020, the hospital contributed approximately $574,000. Retirees receiving
benefits contributed approximately $461,000 through their required contributions. Inactive
members receiving benefits contributed through their required monthly contributions of:
69
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
G. Other post-employment benefit (OPEB) obligations (continued)
2. Hospital’s OPEB plan (continued)
Employees covered by benefit terms. At June 30, 2020, the following employees were
covered by the benefit terms:
Total OPEB Liability
The hospital's total OPEB liability of $4,441,917 was measured as of January 1, 2020 and
was determined by an actuarial valuation as of that date.
Actuarial assumptions and other inputs. The total OPEB liability in the actuarial valuation
was determined using the following actuarial assumptions and other inputs, applied to all
periods included in the measurement, unless otherwise specified:
Inflation 3.00% per annum
Salary increases 4.80% for less than 1 year of service, 3.80% for 5 years of
service, 3.00% for 10 years of service, 2.50% for 15 years
of service, and 2.00% for over 20 years of service
Discount rate 3.26%
Health care cost trend rates 8.00% for medical and prescription benefits for 2021,
decreasing 0.50% per year to an ultimate rate of 4.5% for
2028 and later years
The discount rate was based on the 20-year Bond Buyer GO index.
Mortality rates were based on the Pub-2010 Headcount-weighted Total Dataset Mortality
Table fully generational using Scale MP-2019 for general employees and Pub-1010
Headcount-weighted Contingent Survivor Mortality Table fully generational using Scale
MO-2019 for surviving spouses. It is assumed that 45% of active employees with current
coverage are assumed to continue coverage at retirement and no active employees without
coverage are assumed to elect coverage at retirement.
70
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
G. Other post-employment benefit (OPEB) obligations (continued)
2. Hospital’s OPEB plan (continued)
The actuarial assumptions used in the January 1, 2020 and January 1, 2019 valuation were
based on the results of an actuarial experience study for the period June 2012 through June
2018.
Changes in the Total OPEB Liability
Balance, beginning of year 4,464,128$
Service cost 171,392
Interest 188,216
Differences between expected and
actual experience (480,311)
Changes in assumptions or other inputs 211,750
Benefit payments (113,258)
Net changes (22,211)
Balance, end of year 4,441,917$
Effect assumptions changes and inputs for the year ended June 30, 2020 reflect a change in
the mortality table from RPH-2017 Total Dataset Mortality Table generational scale using
MP-2017 to Pub-2010 Headcount-weighted Total Dataset Mortality Table fully generational
using Scale MP-2019 for general employees and Pub-2010 Headcount-weighted Contingent
Survivor Mortality Table fully general using Scale MP-2019 for surviving spouses, a change
in the ultimate health care trend rate from 5.0% to 4.5% and a change in the discount rate
from 4.11% to 3.26%.
Sensitivity of the total OPEB liability to changes in the discount rate. The following presents
the total OPEB liability of the hospital, as well as what the hospital's total OPEB liability
would be if it were calculated using a discount rate that is one percentage point lower (2.26
percent) or one percentage point higher (4.26 percent) than the current discount rate:
Sensitivity of the total OPEB liability to changes in the healthcare cost trend rates. The
following presents the total OPEB liability to the hospital, as well as what the hospital's total
OPEB liability would be if it were calculated using healthcare cost trend rates that are one
percentage point lower (7.5 percent decreasing to 4.0 percent) or one percentage point higher
(9.5 percent decreasing to 6.0 percent) than the current healthcare cost trend rates:
71
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
G. Other post-employment benefit (OPEB) obligations (continued)
2. Hospital’s OPEB plan (continued)
OPEB Expense and Deferred Outflows of Resources and Deferred Inflows of Resources
Related to OPEB
For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020, the hospital recognized OPEB expense of $168,342.
At June 30, 2020, the hospital reported deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows
of resources related to OPEB from the following sources:
$62,222 reported as deferred outflows of resources resulting from hospital contributions
subsequent to the measurement date will be recognized in the net OPEB liability in the year
ending June 30, 2021.
72
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
G. Other post-employment benefit (OPEB) obligations (continued)
2. Hospital’s OPEB plan (continued)
Amounts reported as deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related
to OPEB will be recognized in OPEB expense as follows:
H. Construction and other significant commitments
Construction commitments. As of June 30, 2020, the City's commitments with contractors were
as follows:
All of the remaining commitment amounts above were encumbered at year-end. As discussed
earlier in note I(F)(1), budgetary information - budgetary basis of accounting, the encumbrances
and related appropriations lapse at the end of the year but are re-appropriated and become part
of the subsequent year's budget because performance under the executory contract is expected
in the next year.
73
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
H. Construction and other significant commitments (continued)
Encumbrances. As discussed in note I(F)(1), budgetary information - budgetary basis of
accounting, encumbrance accounting is utilized to the extent necessary to ensure effective
budgetary control and accountability and to facilitate effective cash planning and control.
At year-end, the amount of encumbrances expected to be honored upon performance by the
vendor in the next year was as follows:
I. Risk management
The City is exposed to various risks of loss related to torts: theft of, damage to, and destruction
of assets; errors and omissions; injuries to employees; and natural disasters. The City uses the
risk management internal service fund to account for and finance risks for workers'
compensation, general liability, and property damage. The risk management fund provides
workers' compensation coverage for all City employees and funds the deductible for general
liability insurance. Commercial insurance is purchased for all other risks of loss.
Risk management fund. All funds of the City participate in the workers' compensation insurance
program and make payments to the risk management fund based on a charge against employee
payroll. The charge is calculated based on past claims experience of City departments. The risk
management fund pays all workers' compensation claims, claim reserves, the deductible for
general liability insurance, and administrative costs from its revenues, and holds excess
revenues for reserve against future claims.
The City is a member of the Iowa Communities Assurance Pool (ICAP), as allowed by the Code
of Iowa. ICAP is a local government, risk-sharing pool whose members include various
governmental entities throughout the state of Iowa. It was formed for the purpose of managing
and funding third-party liability claims against its members. It provides coverage and protection
in the following categories: general liability, automobile liability, automobile physical damage,
public officials' liability, police professional liability, property, inland marine, and
boiler/machinery. There have been no reductions in insurance coverage from prior years.
74
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
I. Risk management (continued)
ICAP's intergovernmental contract with its members provides that in the event a casualty claim
or series of claims exceeds the amount of risk-sharing protection provided by the member's risk-
sharing certificate, or in the event that a series of casualty claims exhausts total members' equity
plus any reinsurance and any excess risk-sharing recoveries, then payment of such claims shall
be the obligation of the respective individual member. As of June 30, 2020, settled claims have
not exceeded the risk pool or reinsurance coverage since the pool's inception.
The City also carries commercial insurance purchased from other insurers for property
(buildings and content) and boiler and machinery coverage. The City assumes liability for any
deductibles and claims in excess of coverage limitations. Settled claims resulting from these
risks have not exceeded commercial insurance coverage in any of the past three fiscal years.
Changes in the balance of claims liabilities during the years ended June 30, 2020 and 2019 were
as follows:
Health insurance fund. The City maintains a separate internal service fund to account for health
benefits. The City carries excess health insurance of $125,000 through the risk pool of Blue
Cross/Blue Shield of Iowa for specific claims each year and 125% of aggregate claims. The
estimated liability for probable losses as recorded in the health benefits fund was:
The hospital carries professional liability insurance on a claims-made policy. Should the claims-
made policy not be renewed or replaced with equivalent insurance, claims based on occurrences
during its term, but reported subsequently, would be uninsured. The hospital has accrued
$173,672 as an estimate for professional liability claims that were incurred but not reported as
of June 30, 2020.
75
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
I. Risk management (continued)
The hospital is self-insured for health care coverage of employees and covered dependents and
carries stop-loss insurance coverage, which assumes liability for claims in excess of $175,000
per individual claim and 120% aggregate of expected paid claims. Accrued costs related to
health care coverage amounted to $1,294,269 at June 30, 2020.
The hospital is self-insured for workers' compensation coverage of employees, and carries stop-
loss insurance coverage, which assumes liability for claims in excess of $500,000 per
occurrence. Accrued costs related to workers' compensation coverage were $245,314 at June
30, 2020.
Changes in the balance of the hospital's accrued claims for professional liabilities, health care,
and workers’ compensation coverage for the years ended June 30, 2020 and 2019 were as
follows:
J. Lease obligations
Operating leases. The City leases a parking lot in Campustown for public parking on a year-to-
year basis. Rent expense for this lease during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020, was $15,900.
The hospital leases various equipment for use in the medical center. Rent expense for these
leases was approximately $622,000 for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020.
76
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
J. Lease obligations (continued)
The future minimum lease payments for the City and hospital are as follows:
K. Long-term obligations
General obligation bonds
The City issues general obligation bonds to provide funds for the acquisition and construction
of major capital facilities and equipment. General obligation bonds have been issued for both
governmental and business-type activities. General obligation bonds are direct obligations and
pledge the full faith and credit of the City. These bonds are generally issued with maturities
ranging from 10 to 20 years. Debt service on general obligation bonds is paid from the debt
service fund. General obligation bonds outstanding at June 30, 2020 are as follows:
77
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
K. Long-term obligations (continued)
On September 12, 2019, the City issued $10,775,000 of general obligation, corporate purpose
bonds for improvements to streets, acquisition of emergency services communication
equipment, and for fire station improvements. Maturity dates on the bonds range from June 1,
2020 to June 1, 2031. Debt service payments are scheduled to be paid semi-annually in amounts
that range from $1,020,000 to $1,142,580. Bonds due after June 1, 2027 may be subject to call
prior to maturity at the option of the City.
Revenue bonds
The City also issues revenue bonds, where the City pledges income derived from certain assets
or programs to pay the debt service. Revenue bonds outstanding as of June 30, 2020 are as
follows:
On November 19, 2019, the hospital issued $35,000,000 in revenue bonds to provide additional
financing for the expansion and remodeling of certain portions of the medical center facilities.
The 2019 series bonds are payable through June 15, 2034 and carry interest due at 1.99% (plus
an adjustment to the medical centers credit rating on June 30, 2020).
The hospital has pledged future net revenue to repay the 2012 and 2016 revenue bonds with
original borrowings of $26,000,000 and $64,790,000, respectively. Net revenue is defined in
the supplemental master trust indenture of trust dated November 1, 2012, and in the
supplemental trust indenture dated June 1, 2016, as operating revenue, less operating expenses
plus depreciation. The purpose of the 2012 and 2016 bonds is to refund the 2003 and 2011
78
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
K. Long-term obligations (continued)
bonds, respectively, and to finance the expansion and renovation of the medical facility. The
bonds are payable solely from net revenues and payable through 2027 and 2036, respectively.
Total principal and interest remaining to be paid on hospital bonds as of June 30, 2020 is
$134,226,929. Principal and interest paid during the fiscal year was $8,043,470 and net revenue
for the same period, as defined above, was $20,658,415.
The City has pledged future net revenue to repay the 2015 electric revenue bonds. Net revenue
is defined as operating revenue less operating expenses, excluding depreciation. The total
principal and interest remaining to be paid on the bonds as of June 30, 2020, is $6,767,463.
Principal and interest paid during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020, was $965,306 and net
revenue for the same period, as defined above, was $11,436,629.
Landfill post-closure costs
The City stopped accepting solid waste at its landfill effective June 30, 1992 and has since been
closed. One hundred percent of the capacity of the landfill has been used.
Federal and state laws and regulations establish landfill closure and post-closure care
requirements. The state specifies financial assurance requirements in the Code of Iowa
enumerating various allowable financial assurance mechanisms to meet the costs of closure and
post-closure care. The City satisfies this requirement with the rating on its most recent bond
issues.
The liability for post-closure care costs is based on the landfill capacity used to date with no
remaining life. The estimated liability for post-closure care costs is $87,503 at June 30, 2020,
with a current portion of $16,155.
The City's written landfill post-closure plan includes estimates of costs of all equipment and
services required to monitor and maintain the closed landfill. There is a potential for changes in
estimates because of inflation or deflation, changes in technology, or changes in applicable laws
or regulations. Unanticipated future inflation costs and costs that might arise from changes in
post-closure requirements may require adjustment of the liability in future years.
Revenue capital loan notes
The City has a revenue capital loan note agreement with the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) in
an amount not to exceed $76,325,000. Proceeds from the loan will be used for paying the cost
of planning, designing, and constructing improvements and extensions to the water utility. The
loan bears interest at 1.75% per annum plus a servicing fee of 0.25% per annum. A loan
initiation fee of $100,000 was withheld from the proceeds and added to the amount owed by
79
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
K. Long-term obligations (continued)
the City. Repayment of the loan will come from the water fund. No amounts were borrowed
during the fiscal year. The City has $8,337,263 of capital loan notes still available as of June
30, 2020. The amount of principal outstanding is $59,204,737.
The capital loan note agreement requires the water utility to produce revenues to meet the
operation and maintenance expenses of the facility and to maintain net revenues at a level not
less than 110% of the amount of principal and interest on the revenue bond and any other
obligations secured by a pledge of the net revenues falling due in the same year. In the fiscal
year ended June 30, 2020, net revenues were $5,000,474 and principal and interest due of
$4,229,815. No amounts were borrowed during the fiscal year. Water utility rates were
increased as budgeted by 7% as of July 1, 2020 to satisfy the covenant in the next fiscal year.
The City has a second revenue capital loan note agreement with the IFA in an amount not to
exceed $3,121,000. The funds were used to pay for a new ultraviolet light disinfection system
for the Water Pollution Control Plant, which is required under the terms of the discharge permit
for the facility. The loan bears interest at 1.75% per annum plus a servicing fee of 0.25% per
annum. A loan initiation fee of $15,605 (0.50%) was withheld from the proceeds and added to
the amount owed by the City. Repayment of the loan will come from the sewer fund. The City
received its final disbursement for the loan during fiscal year 2015, with total proceeds,
including the loan initiation fee, totaling $2,469,250. No amounts were borrowed during the
fiscal year. The balance of the loan was $1,595,000 as of June 30, 2020.
The City has a third capital loan note agreement with the IFA in an amount not to exceed
$375,000. The funds are to be used for planning, designing, and construction improvements and
extensions to the sanitary sewer system. The note bears interest at 0% and is payable as to
principal three years from the project note date. Repayment of the loan will come from the
sewer fund. The $318,750 balance of the loan was rolled into a new capital loan note agreement
for improvements to sanitary sewer pipes and manholes. The loan bears interest at 1.75% per
annum plus a servicing fee of 0.25% per annum. A loan initiation fee of $28,500 (0.50%) was
withheld from the proceeds and added to the amount owed by the City. Repayment of the loan
will come from the sewer fund. No amounts were borrowed during the fiscal year. The amount
of principal outstanding as of June 30, 2020 is $2,746,156. The City has $2,526,406 in capital
loan notes still available as of June 30, 2020.
The City has a fourth revenue capital loan note agreement with the IFA in an amount not to
exceed $797,000. The funds are to be used for improvements to two wastewater lift stations that
are nearing the end of their useful lives. The loan bears interest at 1.75% per annum plus a
servicing fee of 0.25% per annum. A loan initiation fee of $3,985 (0.50%) was withheld from
the proceeds and added to the amount owed by the City. Repayment of the loan will come from
the sewer fund. and the amount of principal outstanding as of June 30, 2020 is $514,000. No
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City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
K. Long-term obligations (continued)
amounts were borrowed during the fiscal year. The City has $155,668 in capital loan notes still
available as of June 30, 2020.
The City has a fifth revenue capital loan note agreement with the IFA in an amount not to exceed
$1,001,000. The funds are to be used for a new mechanically cleaned bar screening system at
the Water Pollution Control Plant. The loan bears interest at 1.75% per annum plus a servicing
fee of 0.25% per annum. A loan initiation fee of $5,005 (0.50%) was withheld from the proceeds
and added to the amount owed by the City. Repayment of the loan will come from the sewer
fund. No amounts were borrowed during the fiscal year. The amount of principal outstanding
as of June 30, 2020 is $684,771. The City has $233,229 in capital loan notes still available as
of June 30, 2020.
The capital loan note agreements above require the sewer utility to produce revenues to meet
the operation and maintenance expenses of the facility and to maintain net revenues at a level
not less than 110% of the amount of principal and interest on the revenue bond and any other
obligations secured by a pledge of the net revenues falling due in the same year. In the fiscal
year ended June 30, 2020, the sewer fund had net revenues of $2,547,278, and the amount of
principal and interest due was $534,437.
Legal debt margin. State statutes limit the amount of general obligation debt an Iowa city may
issue to 5% of the actual assessed valuation at January 1, 2018, related to the 2019-2020 fiscal
year. At June 30, 2020, the outstanding debt of $64,305,000 is below the limit of $241,870,551,
leaving a debt margin of over $177 million.
Changes in long-term liabilities. Changes in the City’s long-term liabilities for the fiscal year
ended June 30, 2020, are as follows:
The liabilities for compensated absences and other post-employment benefits are generally
liquidated by the General Fund.
Governmental activities:
Bonds payable:
General obligation bonds 58,894,988$ 10,520,000$ (8,973,882)$ 60,441,106$ 8,566,484$
Premiums 3,118,172 1,025,738 (560,063) 3,583,847 511,818
Total bonds payable 62,013,160 11,545,738 (9,533,945) 64,024,953 9,078,302
Compensated absences 2,195,165 3,457,533 (3,314,069) 2,338,629 122,703
Governmental activities long-
term debt 64,208,325$ 15,003,271$ (12,848,014)$ 66,363,582$ 9,201,005$
81
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
K. Long-term obligations (continued)
The debt service requirements for the City's bonds are as follows:
Business-type activities:
Bonds payable:
Revenue bonds 79,645,000$ 35,000,000$ (5,425,000)$ 109,220,000$ 6,285,000$
Premiums 7,322,258 - (721,208) 6,601,050 721,108
Total revenue bonds 86,967,258 35,000,000 (6,146,208) 115,821,050 7,006,108
General obligation bonds 4,395,012 255,000 (786,118) 3,863,894 573,516
Premiums 399,730 27,091 (71,680) 355,141 71,782
Total general obligation bonds 4,794,742 282,091 (857,798) 4,219,035 645,298
Total bonds payable 91,762,000 35,282,091 (7,004,006) 120,040,085 7,651,406
Compensated absences 7,847,892 9,128,117 (9,024,876) 8,039,506 566,331
Loans payable 551,479 - (114,099) 437,380 114,099
Capital loan notes payable 68,145,996 - (3,401,332) 64,744,664 3,469,000
Business-type activities long-
term debt 168,307,367$ 44,410,208$ (19,544,313)$ 193,261,635$ 11,800,836$
82
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
K. Long-term obligations (continued)
83
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
K. Long-term obligations (continued)
L. Fund balance
Minimum fund balance policy. The City establishes and maintains fund balance levels based
on evaluation of each individual fund. The minimum fund balance is set at a level that is
considered necessary to maintain the City's credit worthiness and to adequately provide for:
1. Economic uncertainties, local disasters, and other financial hardships or downturns in the
local or national economy,
2. Contingencies for unseen operating or capital needs, and
3. Cash flow requirements.
In addition to the designations noted above, fund balance levels will be sufficient to meet
funding requirements for projects approved in prior years that are carried forward into the new
year; debt service reserve requirements; reserves for encumbrances; and other reserves or
designations required by contractual obligations, state law, or generally accepted accounting
principles.
The minimum fund balance level for the General Fund is 20% of operating expenditures.
84
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
L. Fund balance (continued)
The details for the City's fund balances are as follows:
85
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
M. Inter-fund receivables and payables
The composition of inter-fund balances as of June 30, 2020, is as follows:
The outstanding balances between funds result mainly from the time lag between the dates that
inter-fund goods and services are provided or reimbursable expenditures occur.
86
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
N. Inter-fund transfers
The composition of inter-fund transfers for the year ended June 30, 2020, is as follows:
Inter-fund transfers are authorized in the City budget and usually involve transfers from the
fund receiving the revenue to the fund through which the authorized expenditure is to be made.
For example, the road use tax funds are received into the special revenue fund and are
transferred to the capital projects fund where the funds will be spent.
O. Donor-restricted endowment
Earnings from the investment of the Furman Aquatic Center endowment of $190,328 at June
30, 2020, are shown as restricted net position. These funds can be used at the aquatic center to
minimize the City’s ongoing operational costs, to fund future repairs and enhancements, and to
replace equipment. Chapter 540A of the Code of Iowa permits the City to appropriate an amount
of net appreciation as the City determines, in good faith, while considering the duration and
preservation of the endowment fund, the purposes of the City and the fund, general economic
conditions, the possible effect of inflation or deflation, the expected total return from income
and the appreciation of investments, other resources of the City, and the investment policy of
the City.
87
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
S. Contingencies (continued)
P. Net position restatement
The City made the following restatement to net position as of July 1, 2019:
The net position restatement is to properly recognize water and sewer liabilities in the fiscal
year in which the corresponding expenses incurred.
Q. Urban renewal development agreements
The City has entered into various development agreements for urban renewal projects. The
agreements require the City to rebate portions of the incremental property tax paid by the
developer in exchange for infrastructure, improvements, rehabilitation, and development of
commercial projects by the developer. The total to be paid by the City under the agreements is
not to exceed $2,064,530. Certain agreements include provisions for the payment of interest.
During the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020, the City rebated $296,303 of incremental property
tax to developers, which was all for principal. The total cumulative principal amount rebated
on the agreements is $1,042,442. The outstanding balance on the agreements at June 30, 2020
was $1,022,088.
The agreements are not general obligations of the City and, due to their nature, are not recorded
as a liability in the City's financial statements. However, the agreements are subject to the
constitutional debt limitation of the City.
88
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
S. Contingencies (continued)
Certain agreements include an annual appropriation clause and, accordingly, only the amount
payable in the succeeding year on the agreements is subject to the constitutional debt limitation.
The entire outstanding principal balance of agreements, not including an annual appropriation
clause, is subject to the constitutional debt limitation.
R. Tax abatements
GASB Statement No. 77 defines tax abatements as a reduction in tax revenues that results from
an agreement between one or more governments and an individual or entity in which (a) one or
more governments promise to forgo tax revenues to which they are otherwise entitled and (b)
the individual or entity promises to take a specific action after the agreement has been entered
into that contributes to economic development or otherwise benefits the governments or the
citizens of those governments.
The City provides tax abatements for urban renewal and economic development projects with
tax increment financing as provided for in Chapters 15A and 403 of the Code of Iowa. For these
types of projects, the City enters into agreements with developers, which require the City, after
developers meet the terms of the agreements, to rebate a portion of the property tax paid by the
developers, pay the developers an economic development grant, or pay the developers a pre-
determined dollar amount. No other commitments were made by the City as part of these
agreements.
For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020, the City abated $296,303 of property tax under urban
renewal and economic development projects. The City's property tax revenue was not reduced
by any amount under agreements entered into by any other entities for the year ended June 30,
2020.
S. Contingencies
The City's Legal Department reported to management that, as of June 30, 2020, claims and
lawsuits were on file against the City. The Legal Department estimates that the portion of these
potential claims and lawsuits not covered by insurance would not materially affect the financial
position of the City. The City has authority to levy additional taxes outside the regular limit to
cover cases resulting in an uninsured judgment.
The City participates in various federal grant programs, the principal of which are subject to
program compliance audits pursuant to the Single Audit Act, as amended. Accordingly, the
City's compliance with applicable grant requirements will be established at a future date. The
amount of expenditures that may be disallowed by the granting agencies cannot be determined
at this time, although the City anticipates such amounts, if any, will be immaterial.
89
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
S. Contingencies (continued)
The COVID-19 outbreak is disrupting business across a range of industries in the United States
and financial markets have experienced a significant decline. As a result, local, regional and
national economies, including that of the City, may be adversely impacted. The extent of the
financial impact of COVID-19 will depend on future developments, including the duration and
spread, which are uncertain and cannot be predicted. Due to the uncertainties surrounding the
outbreak, management cannot presently estimate the potential impact to the City's operations
and finances.
Hospital contingencies
Net patient service revenue. As a provider of health care services, the hospital has agreements
with third-party payers that provide for payment of services at amounts different from
established rates. The basis for payment varies by payer and includes prospectively determined
rates per discharge, discounts from established charges, and retroactively determined, cost-
based rates. Approximately 98% of gross patient charges determined at established rates
resulted from patients covered by these third-party reimbursement programs for the fiscal year
ended June 30, 2020. Changes have been and may be made in certain programs, which could
have a material adverse impact on the financial condition of the hospital in future years.
Laws and regulations. The health care industry is subject to numerous laws and regulations of
federal, state, and local governments. Compliance with such laws and regulations can be subject
to future government review and interpretation, as well as regulatory actions unknown and
unasserted at this time. These laws and regulations include, but are not limited to, accreditation,
licensure, government health care program participation requirements, reimbursement for
patient services, and Medicare and Medicaid fraud and abuse. Recently, government activity
has increased with respect to investigations and allegations concerning possible violations of
fraud and abuse statutes and regulations by health care providers. Violations of these laws and
regulations could result in exclusion from government health care program participation,
together with the imposition of significant fines and penalties, as well as significant repayment
for past reimbursement for patient services received. While the hospital is subject to similar
regulatory reviews, management believes that the outcome of any such regulatory review will
not have a material adverse effect on the hospital's financial position.
Current economic conditions. The current economic environment has also made it difficult for
certain patients to pay for services rendered. As employers adjust to health insurance plans,
services provided to uninsured and underinsured patients may significantly impact net patient
service revenue, which could have an adverse impact on the hospital's future operating results.
Further, the effect of economic conditions on the State of Iowa may have an adverse effect on
cash flows related to the Medicaid program.
90
City of Ames
Notes to the Financial Statements
June 30, 2020
IV. Detailed notes on all activities and funds (continued)
S. Contingencies (continued)
Given the volatility of current economic conditions, the values of assets and liabilities recorded
in the financial statements could change rapidly, resulting in material future adjustments in
investment values and the allowances for accounts and contributions receivable. This could
negatively affect the hospital's ability to meet debt covenants or maintain sufficient liquidity.
T. Joint venture
The hospital has a joint venture with McFarland Clinic, P.C. to form Health Ventures of Central
Iowa, LLC (Health Ventures), of which it owns 50%. A joint venture also exists with Garner
Dialysis, LLC, which is owned 40% by the hospital, and Health Enterprises Cooperative, of
which the hospital owns 18.7%. The hospital uses the equity method of accounting for joint
ventures in which it has the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial
policies of the investee. Financial statements of the joint ventures are available at Mary Greeley
Medical Center, 1111 Duff Avenue, Ames, IA 50010.
U. Related party transactions
The hospital’s board of trustees approved the guarantee of certain debt on behalf of the Health
Ventures joint venture mentioned above. During the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020, the debt
was paid in full by Health Ventures, and there was no performance on the guarantee by the
hospital.
V. Subsequent Events
On September 17, 2020, the City issued $17,865,000 of general obligation, corporate purpose
bonds for paying the cost of constructing improvements to streets, sanitary sewers, and bridges,
and for the acquisition of emergency services communication equipment. The interest rates on
the bonds range from 1.00-5.00% with final maturity on June 1, 2032.
On January 26, 2021, the City entered into an amended sewer loan and disbursement agreement
to borrow money in a principal amount not to exceed $6,075,000. The City is amending the
existing loan agreement to allow interest due for the sewer SRF loan to be granted back to the
City to fund the City Hall Parking Lot Reconstruction as a sponsored project in the amount of
$375,000.
91
REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
City of Ames
Schedule of the City's Proportionate Share of the Net Pension Liability
Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System
Last Six Fiscal Years*
The notes to the required supplementary information are an integral part of this schedule.
*Prior year amounts of covered payroll were changed to comply with GASB Statement No. 82,
Pension Issues-an amendment of GASB Statements No. 67, No. 68, and No. 73.
In accordance with GASB Statement No. 68, the amounts presented for each fiscal year were
determined as of June 30 of the preceding year.
Note: GASB Statement No. 68 requires ten years of information to be presented in this table.
However, until a full ten-year trend is compiled, the City will present information for those years
for which information is available.
92
City of Ames
Schedule of City Contributions
Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System
Last Ten Fiscal Years
The notes to the required supplementary information are an integral part of this schedule.
93
City of Ames
Schedule of the City's Proportionate Share of the Net Pension Liability
Municipal Fire and Police Retirement System of Iowa
Last Six Fiscal Years*
The notes to the required supplementary information are an integral part of this schedule.
*Prior year amounts of covered payroll were changed to comply with GASB Statement No. 82,
Pension Issues-an amendment of GASB Statements No. 67, No. 68, and No. 73.
In accordance with GASB Statement No. 68, the amounts presented for each fiscal year were
determined as of June 30 of the preceding year.
Note: GASB Statement No. 68 requires ten years of information to be presented in this table.
However, until a full ten-year trend is compiled, the City will present information for those years
for which information is available.
94
City of Ames
Schedule of City Contributions
Municipal Fire and Police Retirement System of Iowa
Last Ten Fiscal Years
The notes to the required supplementary information are an integral part of this schedule.
95
City of Ames
Schedule of Changes in Total OPEB Liability and Related Ratios
Last Three Years
The notes to the required supplementary information are an integral part of this schedule.
City:2020 2019 2018
Total OPEB liability
Service cost 140,814$ 128,949$ 124,144$
Interest 74,532 76,772 75,321
Differences between expected and actual experience (374,352) - -
Changes in assumptions or other inputs 746,954 70,173 (51,203)
Benefit payments (150,412) (133,691) (97,725)
Net change in total OPEB liability 437,536 142,203 50,537
Total OPEB liability, beginning 2,063,885 1,921,682 1,871,145
Total OPEB liability, ending 2,501,421$ 2,063,885$ 1,921,682$
Covered-employee payroll 39,532,365$ 37,519,077$ 38,084,243$
Total OPEB liability as a percentage
of covered-employee payroll 6.33% 5.50% 5.05%
Notes to schedule:
No assets are accumulated in a trust that meets the criteria in paragraph 4 of GASB No. 75.
Changes of assumptions: Changes of assumptions and other inputs reflect the effects of changes
in the discount rate each period. The following are the discount rates used each period:
GASB No. 75 requires ten years of information to be presented in this table. However, until a full
ten-year trend is compiled, the City will present information for those years for which information
is available.
96
City of Ames
Schedule of Changes in Total OPEB Liability and Related Ratios
Last Three Years
The notes to the required supplementary information are an integral part of this schedule.
Hospital:2020 2019 2018
Total OPEB liability
Service cost 171,392$ 183,570$ 230,410$
Interest 188,216 171,689 155,873
Differences between expected and
actual experience (480,311) (518,903) 907,372
Changes in assumptions or other inputs 211,750 (208,768) (448,839)
Benefit payments (113,258) 57,836 (10,501)
Net change in total OPEB liability (22,211) (314,576) 834,315
Total OPEB liability, beginning 4,464,128 4,778,704 3,944,389
Total OPEB liability, ending 4,441,917$ 4,464,128$ 4,778,704$
Covered-employee payroll 62,732,418$ 61,873,578$ 65,765,292$
Total OPEB liability as a percentage
of covered-employee payroll 7.08% 7.21% 7.27%
Notes to schedule:
No assets are accumulated in a trust that meets the criteria in paragraph 4 of GASB No. 75.
Changes of assumptions: Changes of assumptions and other inputs reflect the effects of changes
in the discount rate each period. The following are the discount rates used each period:
GASB No. 75 requires ten years of information to be presented in this table. However, until a full
ten-year trend is compiled, the City will present information for those years for which information
is available.
97
City of Ames
Budgetary Comparison Schedule
Governmental and Proprietary Funds
For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2020
The notes to the required supplementary information are an integral part of this schedule.
98
City of Ames
Budgetary Comparison Schedule
Budget to GAAP Reconciliation
For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2020
The notes to the required supplementary information are an integral part of this schedule.
99
City of Ames
Notes to the Required Supplementary Information
June 30, 2020
I. Pension Liability
IPERS:
Changes in benefits and terms. There were no significant changes in benefit terms.
Changes in assumptions.
The 2018 valuation implemented the following refinements because of a demographic
assumption study dated June 28, 2018:
• Changed mortality assumptions to the RP-2014 mortality tables with mortality
improvements modeled using Scale MP-2017
• Adjusted retirement rates
• Lowered disability rates
• Adjusted the probability of a vested regular member electing to receive a deferred
benefit
• Adjusted the merit component of the salary increase assumption
The 2017 valuation implemented the following refinements because of a quadrennial
experience study:
• Decreased the inflation assumption from 3.00% to 2.60%
• Decreased the assumed rate of interest on member accounts from 3.75% to 3.50% per year
• Decreased the long-term rate of return assumption from 7.50% to 7.00% per year.
• Decreased the wage growth and payroll growth assumption from 4.00% to 3.25% per year.
• Decreased the salary increase assumption by 0.75%.
The 2014 valuation implemented the following refinements because of a quadrennial
experience study:
• Decreased the inflation assumption from 3.25% to 3.00%
• Decreased the assumed rate of interest on member accounts from 4.00% to 3.75% per year
• Adjusted male mortality rates for retirees in the regular membership group
• Reduced retirement rates for sheriffs and deputies between the ages of 55 and 64
• Moved from an open, 30-year amortization period for the UAL beginning June 30, 2014.
Each year thereafter, changes in the UAL from plan experience will be amortized on a
separate closed, 20-year period.
100
City of Ames
Notes to the Required Supplementary Information (continued)
June 30, 2020
MFPRSI:
Changes in benefit terms. There were no significant changes of benefit terms.
Changes in assumptions. The 2018 valuation mortality rates were based on RP 2014 Blue Collar
Healthy Annuitant table with males set forward zero years, females set forward two years, and
disabled set forward three years (male only rates), with generational projection of future
mortality improvement with 50% of Scale BB beginning in 2017.
The 2017 valuation added five years projection of future mortality improvement with Scale BB.
The 2016 valuation changed post-retirement morality rates to the RP-2000 Blue Collar
Combined Healthy Mortality Table with males set back two years, females set forward one
year, and disabled individuals set forward one year (male only rates), with no projection of
future mortality improvement.
The 2015 valuation phased in the 1994 Group Annuity Mortality Table for post-retirement
mortality. This resulted in a weighting of 1/12 of the 1971 Group Annuity Mortality Table and
11/12 of the 1994 Group Annuity Mortality Table.
The 2014 valuation phased in the 1994 Group Annuity Mortality Table for post-retirement
mortality. This resulted in a weighting of 2/12 of the 1971 Group Annuity Mortality Table and
10/12 of the 1994 Group Annuity Mortality Table.
II. Budgetary Information
The budgetary comparison is presented as required supplementary information in accordance
with Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement 41 for governments with
significant budgetary perspective differences resulting from not being able to present budgetary
comparisons for the General Fund and each major special revenue fund.
In accordance with the Code of Iowa, the City Council annually adopts a budget on the modified
accrual basis of accounting and follows the public notice and hearing requirements. The annual
budget may be amended during the year utilizing similar statutorily prescribed procedures.
Encumbrances are not recognized on the budget basis and appropriations lapse at the end of the
fiscal year.
Formal and legal budgetary control is based upon nine major classes of expenditures, referred
to as functions, not by fund or fund type. The nine functions are general government, public
safety, public works, health and social services, culture and recreation, community and
economic development, debt service, capital projects, and business-type activities.
Expenditures of functions required to be budgeted include expenditures for the General Fund,
special revenue funds, the Debt Service Fund, the Capital Projects Fund, and the enterprise
funds. Although the budget document presents function expenditures by fund, the legal level of
control is at the aggregated function level, not by fund.
101
City of Ames
Notes to the Required Supplementary Information (continued)
June 30, 2020
Three budget amendments during the fiscal year increased budgeted expenditures by
$66,737,172. These amendments are reflected in the final budget amounts.
102
SUPPLEMENTARYINFORMATION
Non-Major Governmental Funds
Special Revenue Funds
Special revenue funds are used to account for specific revenue sources that are restricted,
committed, or assigned to expenditures for particular purposes.
Local Option Tax Fund - to account for the funds generated by the voter-approved 1% local
option sales tax. Sixty percent is used for property tax relief and forty percent is for community
betterment.
Hotel/Motel Tax Fund - to account for funds generated through the imposition of a hotel/motel
tax. Proceeds are used for community betterment and economic development.
Road Use Tax Fund - to account for the City's share of state gasoline taxes received on a per
capita basis. Funds must be used for a purpose related to the construction or maintenance of
public streets.
Bike Licenses Fund - to account for funds generated by the sale of bike licenses to be used for
bike trails and maps.
Police Forfeiture and Grants Fund - to account for funds generated from the forfeiture of
property because of criminal activities and for government grants received for law enforcement
costs.
Housing Assistance Fund - to account for grant-funded housing assistance programs.
TIF Fund - to account for tax-increment financing revenues on abated debt.
Employee Benefit Property Tax Fund - to account for tax revenues used to pay the City's share
of selected employee benefits.
Police and Fire 411 Fund - to account for the funds remaining from the transition to Municipal
Fire and Police Retirement System of Iowa (MFPRSI). Funds may only be used to offset City
contributions to MFPRSI.
Parks and Recreation Programs Fund - to account for revenues used for specific park and
recreation programs and improvements.
Library Donations, Project Share, Police and Fire Donations, Animal Shelter Donations, and
Public Art Donations Funds - to account for donations to be used for specific purposes and
activities.
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Fund - to account for funds received from the
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to be used according to the CDBG
program.
103
Non-Major Governmental Funds
Special Revenue Funds
Developers' Projects Fund - to account for funds received from developers to be used for City
infrastructure.
Economic Development and Loans Fund - to account for funds from block grants and funds to
be loaned to businesses to increase development in the City.
FEMA – to account for funds received from emergency related grants to cover expenses
associated to natural disasters.
Permanent Funds
Permanent funds are used to report resources that are legally restricted to the extent that only
earnings, not principal, may be used for purposes that support the City's programs.
Perpetual Care Fund - to account for principal amounts received for perpetual care. The
investment earnings are recorded in the General Fund and are used to maintain the cemetery.
Furman Aquatic Center Endowment Fund - to account for a donation to cover future operating
expenditures, fund future repairs and enhancements, and to replace equipment at the aquatic
center.
104
City of Ames
Combining Balance Sheet
Non-Major Governmental Funds
June 30, 2020
Non-Major Furman Total
Special Aquatic Non-Major
Revenue Perpetual Center Governmental
Funds Care Endowment Funds
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents 9,812,673$ 13,537$ 627,893$ 10,454,103$
Investments 8,910,071 1,012,263 558,696 10,481,030
Taxes receivable 19,251 - - 19,251
Accrued interest receivable 3,018 19 3,739 6,776
Accounts receivable, net 1,709 560 - 2,269
Intergovernmental receivable 2,109,750 - - 2,109,750
Loans receivable 1,846 - - 1,846
Due from other funds 380,456 752 - 381,208
Inventories 60,376 - - 60,376
Property held for resale 1,114,441 - - 1,114,441
Prepaid items 40,396 - - 40,396
Succeeding year taxes receivable 2,171,833 - - 2,171,833
Long-term loans receivable 8,561 - - 8,561
Total assets 24,634,381$ 1,027,131$ 1,190,328$ 26,851,840$
LIABILITIES
Accounts payable 720,809$ -$ -$ 720,809$
Accrued payroll 90,225 - - 90,225
Retainage payable 48,119 - - 48,119
Customer deposits 601,763 - - 601,763
Intergovernmental payable 18,311 - - 18,311
Due to other funds 1,226,021 9,138 - 1,235,159
Total liabilities 2,705,248 9,138 - 2,714,386
DEFERRED INFLOWS OF
RESOURCES
Unavailable revenue:
Property taxes 2,171,833 - - 2,171,833
Other taxes 413,801 - - 413,801
Grants 4,215 - - 4,215
Total deferred inflows of resources 2,589,849 - - 2,589,849
FUND BALANCES (DEFICITS)
Nonspendable 100,772 1,017,993 1,000,000 2,118,765
Restricted 18,267,836 - 190,328 18,458,164
Committed 1,249,170 - - 1,249,170
Unassigned (278,494) - - (278,494)
Total fund balances 19,339,284 1,017,993 1,190,328 21,547,605
Total liabilities, deferred inflows of resources,
and fund balances 24,634,381$ 1,027,131$ 1,190,328$ 26,851,840$
Permanent Funds
105
City of Ames
Combining Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in Fund Balances
Non-Major Governmental Funds
For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
Non-Major Furman Total
Special Aquatic Non-Major
Revenue Perpetual Center Governmental
Funds Care Endowment Funds
REVENUES
Taxes 13,900,500$ -$ -$ 13,900,500$
Intergovernmental 8,374,050 - - 8,374,050
Charges for services - 19,350 - 19,350
Investment income 34,580 - 31,251 65,831
Miscellaneous 518,543 - - 518,543
Total revenues 22,827,673 19,350 31,251 22,878,274
EXPENDITURES
Current:
General government 235,349 - - 235,349
Public safety 120,076 - - 120,076
Public works 5,619,099 - - 5,619,099
Health and social services 1,463,008 - - 1,463,008
Culture and recreation 1,214,938 - 8,591 1,223,529
Community and economic development 2,427,749 - - 2,427,749
Capital outlay 2,075,617 - - 2,075,617
Total expenditures 13,155,836 - 8,591 13,164,427
Excess of revenues over expenditures 9,671,837 19,350 22,660 9,713,847
OTHER FINANCING SOURCES (USES)
Transfers in 117,950 - - 117,950
Transfers out (8,057,559) - - (8,057,559)
Total other financing sources (uses)(7,939,609) - - (7,939,609)
Net change in fund balance 1,732,228 19,350 22,660 1,774,238
Fund balances, beginning 17,607,052 998,643 1,167,668 19,773,363
Fund balances, ending 19,339,280$ 1,017,993$ 1,190,328$ 21,547,601$
Permanent Funds
106
City of Ames
Combining Balance Sheet
Non-Major Special Revenue Funds
June 30, 2020
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
Employee
Local Hotel/Police Benefit Police
Option Motel Road Bike Forfeiture Housing Property & Fire
Tax Tax Use Tax Licenses & Grants Assistance TIF Tax 411
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents 3,704,738 655,755 3,665,423 5,269 50,582 243,082 112,498 10,211 172,395$
Investments 3,345,434 592,157 3,309,931 4,757 45,676 223,975 101,254 9,221 155,656
Taxes receivable - - - - - - - 18,212 1,039
Accrued interest receivable - - - - - - - - -
Accounts receivable, net 1,098 - - - - - - - -
Intergovernmental receivable 680,800 413,801 991,370 - 6,321 2,697 - - -
Loans receivable - - - - - - - - -
Due from other funds 15,311 - 333,012 - 7,252 11,028 2,459 - -
Inventories - - 60,376 - - - - - -
Property held for resale - - - - - - - - -
Prepaid items - - 27,774 - - - - - -
Succeeding year taxes receivable - - - - - - - 2,171,833 -
Long-term loans receivable - - - - - - - - -
Total assets 7,747,381$ 1,661,713$ 8,387,886$ 10,026$ 109,831$ 480,782$ 216,211$ 2,209,477$ 329,090$
LIABILITIES
Accounts payable 159,100$ 42,075$ 476,766$ -$ 4,353$ -$ -$ -$ -$
Accrued payroll 205 - 89,444 - - - - - -
Retainage payable 32,576 - 15,543 - - - - - -
Customer deposits - - - - - - - - -
Intergovernmental payable 3,791 12,422 - 746 - - -
Due to other funds 409,875 - 262,098 - 14,048 735 395,477 37,644 -
Total liabilities 605,547 42,075 856,273 - 19,147 735 395,477 37,644 -
DEFERRED INFLOWS OF
RESOURCES
Unavailable revenue:
Property taxes - - - - - - - 2,171,833 -
Other taxes - 413,801 - - - - - -
Grants - - - - 3,236 - - - -
FUND BALANCES (DEFICITS)
Nonspendable - - 88,150 - - - - - -
Restricted 7,141,834 1,205,837 7,443,463 - 87,448 - - - 329,090
Committed - - - 10,026 - 480,047 - - -
Unassigned - - - - - - (179,266) - -
Total fund balances (deficits)7,141,834 1,205,837 7,531,613 10,026 87,448 480,047 (179,266) - 329,090
Total liabilities, deferred outflows
of resources, and fund balances
(deficits)7,747,381$ 1,661,713$ 8,387,886$ 10,026$ 109,831$ 480,782$ 216,211$ 2,209,477$ 329,090$
107
City of Ames
Combining Balance Sheet (continued)
Non-Major Special Revenue Funds
June 30, 2020
Total
Non-Major
Parks &Police Animal Economic Special
Recreation Library Project & Fire Shelter Developers'Development Revenue
Programs Donations Share Donations CDBG Donations Projects & Loans FEMA Funds
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents 107,903$ 234,122$ 6,142$ 1,573$ 90$ 148,110$ 435,140$ 259,640$ -$ 9,812,673$
Investments 94,093 209,371 5,545 1,421 80 131,561 392,413 287,526 - 8,910,071
Taxes receivable - - - - - - - - - 19,251
Accrued interest receivable 629 1,382 - - - 852 155 - - 3,018
Accounts receivable, net - 611 - - - - - - 1,709
Intergovernmental receivable - - - 980 13,782 - - - - 2,109,750
Loans receivable - - - - 1,846 - - - - 1,846
Due from other funds - 161 - 11,025 - - - - 208 380,456
Inventories - - - - - - - - - 60,376
Property held for resale - - - - 1,114,441 - - - - 1,114,441
Prepaid items - 12,622 - - - - - - - 40,396
Succeeding year taxes receivable - - - - - - - - - 2,171,833
Long-term loans receivable - - - - 8,561 - - - - 8,561
Total assets 202,625$ 457,658$ 12,298$ 14,999$ 1,138,800$ 280,523$ 827,708$ 547,166$ 208$ 24,634,381$
LIABILITIES
Accounts payable -$ 31,466$ -$ -$ 6,403$ 646$ -$ -$ -$ 720,809$
Accrued payroll - 576 - - - - - - - 90,225
Retainage payable - - - - - - - - - 48,119
Customer deposits - - - - 1,440 - 600,323 - - 601,763
Intergovernmental payable - - - - - 1,352 - - - 18,311
Due to other funds - 162 - 6,519 27 - - - 99,436 1,226,021
Total liabilities - 32,204 - 6,519 7,870 1,998 600,323 - 99,436 2,705,248
DEFERRED INFLOWS OF
RESOURCES
Unavailable revenue:
Property taxes - - - - - - - - - 2,171,833
Other taxes - - - - - - - - - 413,801
Grants - - - 980 - - - - - 4,215
FUND BALANCES (DEFICITS)
Nonspendable - 12,622 - - - - - - - 100,772
Restricted - 412,832 2,992 7,500 1,130,930 278,525 227,385 - - 18,267,836
Committed 202,625 - 9,306 - - - - 547,166 - 1,249,170
Unassigned - - - - - - - - (99,228) (278,494)
Total fund balances (deficits)202,625 425,454 12,298 7,500 1,130,930 278,525 227,385 547,166 (99,228) 19,339,284
Total liabilities, deferred outflows
of resources, and fund balances
(deficits)202,625$ 457,658$ 12,298$ 14,999$ 1,138,800$ 280,523$ 827,708$ 547,166$ 208$ 24,634,381$
108
City of Ames
Combining Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in Fund Balances
Non-Major Special Revenue Funds
For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
Local Hotel/Police Employee Police
Option Motel Road Bike Forfeiture Housing Benefit & Fire
Tax Tax Use Tax Licenses & Grants Assistance TIF Property Tax 411
REVENUES
Taxes 8,470,509$ 2,062,067$ -$ -$ -$ -$ 1,229,295$ 2,138,629$ -$
Intergovernmental - - 7,961,955 - 65,149 13,078 - - -
Investment income - - - - - - 2,589 - 8,651
Miscellaneous - - - - 3,193 36,012 - - -
Total revenues 8,470,509 2,062,067 7,961,955 - 68,342 49,090 1,231,884 2,138,629 8,651
EXPENDITURES
Current:
General government - - 152,099 - - 83,250 - - -
Public safety - - - 161 54,467 - - - -
Public works - - 5,619,099 - - - - - -
Health and social services 1,443,998 - - - - - - - -
Culture and recreation 1,028,925 - - - - - - - -
Community and economic
development 57,461 1,640,285 - - - - 296,303 - -
Capital outlay 820,518 - 1,255,099 - - - - - -
Total expenditures 3,350,902 1,640,285 7,026,297 161 54,467 83,250 296,303 - -
Excess (deficiency) of revenues
over (under) expenditures 5,119,607 421,782 935,658 (161) 13,875 (34,160) 935,581 2,138,629 8,651
OTHER FINANCING SOURCES
(USES)
Transfers in 117,950 - - - - - - - -
Transfers out (5,202,306) (294,875) - - - - (421,749) (2,138,629) -
Total other financing sources
(uses)(5,084,356) (294,875) - - - - (421,749) (2,138,629) -
Net change in fund balances 35,251 126,907 935,658 (161) 13,875 (34,160) 513,832 - 8,651
Fund balances, beginning 7,106,583 1,078,930 6,595,955 10,187 73,573 514,207 (693,098) - 320,439
Fund balances, ending 7,141,834$ 1,205,837$ 7,531,613$ 10,026$ 87,448$ 480,047$ (179,266)$ -$ 329,090$
109
City of Ames
Combining Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in Fund Balances (continued)
Non-Major Special Revenue Funds
For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
Total
Non-Major
Parks &Police Animal Economic Special
Recreation Library Project & Fire Shelter Developers'Development Revenue
Programs Donations Share Donations CDBG Donations Projects & Loans FEMA Funds
REVENUES
Taxes -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ 13,900,500$
Intergovernmental - 15,306 - - 318,562 - - - - 8,374,050
Investment income 4,388 10,673 - - - 6,990 1,289 - - 34,580
Miscellaneous 90,577 236,209 18,920 14,375 47,174 72,083 - - - 518,543
Total revenues 94,965 262,188 18,920 14,375 365,736 79,073 1,289 - - 22,827,673
EXPENDITURES
Current:
General government - - - - - - - - - 235,349
Public safety - - - 9,808 - 55,640 - - - 120,076
Public works - - - - - - - - - 5,619,099
Health and social services - - 19,010 - - - - - - 1,463,008
Culture and recreation 13,236 172,777 - - - - - - - 1,214,938
Community and economic
development - - - - 334,468 - - - 99,232 2,427,749
Capital outlay - - - - - - - - - 2,075,617
Total expenditures 13,236 172,777 19,010 9,808 334,468 55,640 - - 99,232 13,155,836
Excess (deficiency) of revenues
over (under) expenditures 81,729 89,411 (90) 4,567 31,268 23,433 1,289 - (99,232) 9,671,837
OTHER FINANCING SOURCES
(USES)
Transfers in - - - - - - - - - 117,950
Transfers out - - - - - - - - - (8,057,559)
Total other financing sources
(uses)- - - - - - - - - (7,939,609)
Net change in fund balances 81,729 89,411 (90) 4,567 31,268 23,433 1,289 - (99,232) 1,732,228
Fund balances, beginning 120,896 336,043 12,388 2,933 1,099,662 255,092 226,096 547,166 - 17,607,052
Fund balances, ending 202,625$ 425,454$ 12,298$ 7,500$ 1,130,930$ 278,525$ 227,385$ 547,166$ (99,232)$ 19,339,284$
110
Non-Major Enterprise Funds
The notes to the financial statements are an integral part of this statement.
Enterprise funds are used to report activities for which a fee is charged to external users for goods or
services.
Parking Lot Fund - to account for the operation of parking meters on streets and in designated
parking lots.
Transit Fund - to account for operations of transit services.
Storm Sewer Utility Fund - to account for the fees paid by residents for the maintenance of the
City's storm sewer system.
Ames/Iowa State University (ISU) Ice Arena Fund - to account for the operations of a
recreational ice facility, which is jointly operated by the City and ISU.
Homewood Golf Course Fund - to account for the operations of a nine-hole golf course.
Resource Recovery Fund - to account for the operation of the City-owned resource recovery
plant.
111
City of Ames
Combining Statement of Net Position
Non-Major Enterprise Funds
June 30, 2020
Total
Storm Ames / ISU Homewood Non-Major
Sewer Ice Golf Resource Enterprise
Parking Transit Utility Arena Course Recovery Funds
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents 156,243$ 3,166,727$ 2,719,591$ 186,154$ 115,484$ 146,406$ 6,490,605$
Investments 137,157 2,812,439 2,409,189 163,488 101,940 136,541 5,760,754
Accrued interest receivable 907 19,250 16,103 1,168 643 637 38,708
Accounts receivable, net 5,685 2,556,299 220,996 37,920 458 268,687 3,090,045
Due from other funds 1,099 62,439 6,321 2,659 1,804 70,935 145,257
Intergovernmental receivable 317 693,276 - - - 405,031 1,098,624
Inventories 18,920 326,516 - 3,442 1,463 - 350,341
Prepaid items - 23,324 - - 6,320 945 30,589
Total current assets 320,328 9,660,270 5,372,200 394,831 228,112 1,029,182 17,004,923
Noncurrent assets:
Capital assets:
Land 910,547 41,500 733,383 - 193,250 531,517 2,410,197
Land improvements 623,538 742,323 3,894,704 71,230 127,581 172,379 5,631,755
Buildings - 26,525,600 - 1,870,329 87,003 11,342,409 39,825,341
Equipment 56,130 30,592,762 8,390 316,275 5,700 8,003,995 38,983,252
Construction in progress - 710,249 440,129 - - - 1,150,378
Less accumulated depreciation (633,723) (30,299,806) (425,108) (1,393,384) (194,836) (14,681,937) (47,628,794)
Total noncurrent assets 956,492 28,312,628 4,651,498 864,450 218,698 5,368,363 40,372,129
Total assets 1,276,820 37,972,898 10,023,698 1,259,281 446,810 6,397,545 57,377,052
DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES
Deferred outflows related to OPEB 7,573 64,289 5,307 1,626 1,297 24,270 104,362
Deferred outflows related to pensions 85,050 1,363,280 36,406 39,614 16,348 228,993 1,769,691
Total deferred outflows of resources 92,623 1,427,569 41,713 41,240 17,645 253,263 1,874,053
LIABILITIES
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable 11,586 113,400 4,672 11,348 3,153 131,650 275,809
Accrued payroll 10,922 164,315 7,459 900 2,416 2,940 188,951
Accrued compensated absences 2,720 23,234 1,709 333 201 4,166 32,364
Due to other funds 14,757 251,580 48,972 4,067 4,321 71,756 395,453
Retainage payable - - 16,662 3,051 - - 19,713
Accrued interest - - - - - 1,699 1,699
Intergovernmental payable (100) 1,427 988 438 1,068 57,752 61,573
Accrued landfill post-closure costs - - - - - 16,155 16,155
Bonds payable, net - - - - - 145,855 145,855
Unearned revenue 8,596 - - - - - 8,596
Total current liabilities 48,481 553,956 80,461 20,137 11,159 431,973 1,146,168
Noncurrent liabilities:
Accrued compensated absences 45,531 417,856 23,610 4,320 2,397 57,068 550,782
Accrued other post-employment benefits 25,415 215,748 17,811 5,453 4,352 81,446 350,225
Net pension liability 331,638 4,875,275 143,836 138,698 63,104 827,512 6,380,063
Accrued landfill post-closure costs - - - - - 71,348 71,348
Bonds payable, net - - - - - 602,644 602,644
Total noncurrent liabilities 402,584 5,508,879 185,257 148,471 69,853 1,640,018 7,955,062
Total liabilities 451,065 6,062,835 265,718 168,608 81,012 2,071,991 9,101,230
DEFERRED INFLOWS OF RESOURCES
Deferred inflows related to OPEB 3,889 33,027 2,727 835 667 12,467 53,612
Deferred inflows related to pensions 45,205 640,363 30,828 19,747 8,485 125,929 870,557
49,094 673,390 33,555 20,582 9,152 138,396 924,169
NET POSITION
Net investment in capital assets 956,492 28,312,628 4,651,498 864,450 218,698 4,619,864 39,623,630
Unrestricted (87,208) 4,351,614 5,114,640 246,881 155,593 (179,443) 9,602,077
Total net position 869,284$ 32,664,242$ 9,766,138$ 1,111,331$ 374,291$ 4,440,421$ 49,225,707$
112
City of Ames
Combining Statement of Revenues, Expenses, and Changes in Net Position
Non-Major Enterprise Funds
For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
Total
Ames / ISU Homewood Non-Major
Storm Ice Golf Resource Enterprise
Parking Transit Sewer Arena Course Recovery Funds
Operating revenues:
Charges for services 797,454$ 6,735,543$ 1,852,740$ 444,262$ 150,549$ 3,019,801$ 13,000,349$
Operating expenses:
Cost of goods and services 942,403 9,253,331 738,339 567,265 212,324 3,741,630 15,455,292
Administration 68,582 1,933,291 10,065 - - 238,649 2,250,587
Depreciation 8,019 2,713,710 63,235 103,526 8,062 556,022 3,452,574
Total operating expenses 1,019,004 13,900,332 811,639 670,791 220,386 4,536,301 21,158,453
Operating income (loss)(221,550) (7,164,789) 1,041,101 (226,529) (69,837) (1,516,500) (8,158,104)
Non-operating revenues (expenses):
Intergovernmental - 3,827,592 - - - - 3,827,592
Reimbursements - 65,273 - - - 305,030 370,303
Investment income 10,936 132,682 130,383 9,939 5,723 7,399 297,062
Interest expense - - - - (17,099) (17,099)
Miscellaneous - 8,005 - 35,243 53,910 2,040 99,198
Total non-operating revenues 10,936 4,033,552 130,383 45,182 59,633 297,370 4,577,056
Income (loss) before capital
contributions and transfers (210,614) (3,131,237) 1,171,484 (181,347) (10,204) (1,219,130) (3,581,048)
Capital contributions - 1,149,550 - 20,000 - - 1,169,550
Transfers in 1,977,672 - 20,000 - 522,533 2,520,205
Change in net position (210,614) (4,015) 1,171,484 (141,347) (10,204) (696,597) 108,707
Net position, beginning 1,079,898 32,668,257 8,594,654 1,252,678 384,495 5,137,018 49,117,000
Net position, ending 869,284$ 32,664,242$ 9,766,138$ 1,111,331$ 374,291$ 4,440,421$ 49,225,707$
113
City of Ames
Combining Statement of Cash Flows
Non-Major Enterprise Funds
For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
Total
Storm Ames / ISU Homewood Non-Major
Sewer Ice Golf Resource Enterprise
Parking Transit Utility Arena Course Recovery Funds
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Receipts from customers 805,696$ 7,018,790$ 1,845,311$ 446,455$ 148,999$ 3,016,457$ 13,281,708$
Payments to suppliers (123,770) (2,109,176) (54,825) (275,963) (61,983) (1,661,871) (4,287,588)
Payments to employees (679,855) (8,170,836) (445,623) (242,784) (101,025) (1,453,379) (11,093,502)
Payments to other funds for services provided (201,111) (601,790) (237,408) (41,436) (48,870) (701,735) (1,832,350)
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities (199,040) (3,863,012) 1,107,455 (113,728) (62,879) (800,528) (3,931,732)
CASH FLOW FROM NON-CAPITAL FINANCING
ACTIVITIES
Operating grants - 3,827,592 - - - - 3,827,592
Reimbursements - 65,273 - - - 305,030 370,303
Miscellaneous income - 8,005 - 35,243 53,910 2,040 99,198
Transfers in - 1,977,672 - 20,000 - 522,533 2,520,205
Net cash provided by non-capital financing activities - 5,878,542 - 55,243 53,910 829,603 6,817,298
CASH FLOWS FROM CAPITAL AND RELATED
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Acquisition and construction of capital assets - (1,650,149) (712,972) (7,652) - (53,326) (2,424,099)
Principal paid on capital debt - - - - - (140,000) (140,000)
Interest paid on capital debt - - - - - (23,188) (23,188)
Capital contributions - 1,149,550 - 20,000 - - 1,169,550
Net cash provided by (used for) capital and related
financing activities - (500,599) (712,972) 12,348 - (216,514) (1,417,737)
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Purchase of investments (98,818) (1,657,247) (533,736) (19,085) (1,441) (93,744) (2,404,071)
Proceeds from sale of investments 187,157 875,026 281,812 36,146 2,725 177,549 1,560,415
Interest on investments 11,579 127,672 128,452 10,006 5,744 8,713 292,166
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities 99,918 (654,549) (123,472) 27,067 7,028 92,518 (551,490)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (99,122) 860,382 271,011 (19,070) (1,941) (94,921) 916,339
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning 255,365 2,306,345 2,448,580 205,224 117,425 241,327 5,574,266
Cash and cash equivalents, ending 156,243$ 3,166,727$ 2,719,591$ 186,154$ 115,484$ 146,406$ 6,490,605$
114
City of Ames
Combining Statement of Cash Flows (continued)
Non-Major Enterprise Funds
For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
Total
Storm Ames / ISU Homewood Non-Major
Sewer Ice Golf Resource Enterprise
Parking Transit Utility Arena Course Recovery Funds
Reconciliation of operating income (loss) to net cash
provided by (used for) operating activities:
Operating income (loss)(221,550)$ (7,164,789)$ 1,041,101$ (226,529)$ (69,837)$ (1,516,500)$ (8,158,104)$
Adjustments to reconcile operating loss to net cash
provided by (used for) operating activities:
Depreciation expense 8,019 2,713,710 63,235 103,526 8,062 556,022 3,452,574
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable 6,652 (2,114,640) (6,932) (15,148) (423) 86,860 (2,043,631)
(Increase) decrease in due from other funds (1,099) 171,581 (497) (2,659) (1,127) (1,919) 164,280
(Increase) decrease in intergovernmental receivable 2,893 2,226,306 - 20,000 - (88,285) 2,160,914
(Increase) decrease in inventories (9,578) 16 - 1,747 488 - (7,327)
(Increase) decrease in prepaid items - (15,955) - - (272) (945) (17,172)
(Increase) decrease in deferred outflows of resources 6,851 119,495 3,870 2,914 465 7,337 140,932
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable 5,765 3,487 (6,672) 5,727 971 99,764 109,042
Increase (decrease) in accrued payroll 1,208 (288) 4,696 (931) (911) (394) 3,380
Increase (decrease) in accrued compensated absences 6,365 7,331 1,543 (10,565) (502) 10,631 14,803
Increase (decrease) in due to other funds (23,991) (10,958) (19,085) (306) (2,938) (10,707) (67,985)
Increase (decrease) in retainage payable - (6,601) 13,536 3,051 - - 9,986
Increase (decrease) in intergovernmental payable (100) (4,292) 5 159 444 12,358 8,574
Decrease in accrued landfill post-closure costs - - - - - (4,158) (4,158)
Increase (decrease) in unearned revenue (204) - - - - - (204)
Increase in post-employment benefits 4,445 37,737 3,115 954 761 14,246 61,258
Increase (decrease) in pension liability (19,953) (276,863) (13,542) (6,834) (2,563) (45,838) (365,593)
Increase (decrease) in deferred inflows of resources 35,237 451,711 23,082 11,166 4,503 81,000 606,699
Total adjustments 22,510 3,301,777 66,354 112,801 6,958 715,972 4,226,372
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities (199,040)$ (3,863,012)$ 1,107,455$ (113,728)$ (62,879)$ (800,528)$ (3,931,732)$
115
Internal Service Funds
Internal service funds are used to account for services provided to other departments or agencies
of the government, or to other governments on a cost-reimbursement basis.
Fleet Services Fund - to account for capital equipment other than those accounted for in other
funds. A central garage is used and appropriate charges are made to other City departments for
maintenance and replacement.
Information Technology Fund - to account for all information technology services provided to
City departments.
Risk Management Fund - to account for the self-insured workers' compensation insurance and
all other insurance premiums and claims payments, other than for health insurance.
Health Insurance Fund - to account for self-insured health insurance claims payments and stop-
loss premiums.
116
City of Ames
Combining Statement of Net Position
Internal Service Funds
June 30, 2020
Total
Internal
Fleet Information Risk Health Service
Services Technology Management Insurance Funds
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents 5,858,696$ 1,427,582$ 2,330,309$ 3,776,248$ 13,392,835$
Investments 5,201,344 1,278,408 2,080,968 3,351,608 11,912,328
Accrued interest receivable 34,358 8,572 13,816 21,861 78,607
Accounts receivable, net 21,122 3,368 15,341 83,869 123,700
Due from other funds 546,229 60,358 5,512 4,841 616,940
Intergovernmental receivable 12,003 23,827 - 9,535 45,365
Inventories 76,082 - - - 76,082
Prepaid items 316 212,816 838 1,074 215,044
Total current assets 11,750,150 3,014,931 4,446,783 7,249,037 26,460,901
Noncurrent assets:
Capital assets:
Land improvements - 192,433 - - 192,433
Buildings 884,494 - - - 884,494
Equipment 17,778,008 2,911,686 - - 20,689,694
Less accumulated depreciation (9,419,799) (2,153,578) - - (11,573,377)
Total noncurrent assets 9,242,703 950,541 - - 10,193,244
Total assets 20,992,853 3,965,472 4,446,783 7,249,037 36,654,145
DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES
Deferred outflows related to OPEB 18,105 15,498 684 1,692 35,979
Deferred outflows related to pensions 135,560 85,016 22,829 24,627 268,032
Total deferred outflows of resources 153,665 100,514 23,513 26,319 304,011
LIABILITIES
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable 60,830 87,004 56,110 81,750 285,694
Accrued payroll 12,793 1,367 - - 14,159
Accrued compensated absences 2,297 3,810 165 453 6,725
Due to other funds 24,793 3,536 1,274,886 25,070 1,328,285
Claims payable - - 1,221,951 853,621 2,075,572
Intergovernmental payable 139,572 410 3,037 2,691 145,711
Unearned revenue - - - 9,470 9,470
Total current liabilities 240,285 96,127 2,556,149 973,055 3,865,616
Noncurrent liabilities:
Accrued compensated absences 33,447 70,794 1,813 4,994 111,048
Accrued other post-employment benefits 60,760 52,006 2,302 5,678 120,746
Net pension liability 493,796 318,147 68,348 79,970 960,261
Total noncurrent liabilities 588,003 440,947 72,463 90,642 1,192,055
Total liabilities 828,288 537,074 2,628,612 1,063,697 5,057,671
DEFERRED INFLOWS OF RESOURCES
Deferred inflows related to OPEB 9,301 7,961 351 869 18,482
Deferred inflows related to pensions 63,331 27,498 26,761 17,307 134,897
Total deferred inflows of resources 72,632 35,459 27,112 18,176 153,379
NET POSITION
Net investment in capital assets 9,242,703 950,541 - - 10,193,244
Unrestricted 11,002,895 2,542,912 1,814,572 6,193,483 21,553,862
Total net position 20,245,598$ 3,493,453$ 1,814,572$ 6,193,483$ 31,747,106$
117
City of Ames
Combining Statement of Revenues, Expenses, and Changes in Net Position
Internal Service Funds
For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
Total
Internal
Fleet Information Risk Health Service
Services Technology Management Insurance Funds
Operating revenues:
Charges for services 4,198,311$ 2,902,295$ 2,575,064$ 10,146,795$ 19,822,465$
Operating expenses:
Cost of goods and services 2,153,350 2,393,819 2,660,254 9,506,464 16,713,887
Depreciation 1,191,793 260,275 - - 1,452,068
Total operating expenses 3,345,143 2,654,094 2,660,254 9,506,464 18,165,955
Operating income (loss)853,168 248,201 (85,190) 640,331 1,656,510
Non-operating revenues:
Investment income 285,191 52,475 87,865 173,098 598,629
Loss on disposal of capital assets (223,117) - - - (223,117)
Total non-operating revenues 62,074 52,475 87,865 173,098 375,512
Change in net position 915,242 300,676 2,675 813,429 2,032,022
Net position, beginning 19,330,356 3,192,777 1,811,897 5,380,054 29,715,084
Net position, ending 20,245,598$ 3,493,453$ 1,814,572$ 6,193,483$ 31,747,106$
118
City of Ames
Combining Statement of Cash Flows
Internal Service Funds
For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
Total
Internal
Fleet Information Risk Health Service
Services Technology Management Insurance Funds
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Receipts from customers 4,456,376$ 3,120,094$ 2,568,738$ 10,376,855$ 20,522,063$
Payments to suppliers (860,402) (883,678) (1,980,154) (9,245,306) (12,969,540)
Payments to employees (858,266) (890,187) (132,516) (168,080) (2,049,049)
Payments/receipts to other funds for services provided (296,385) (784,304) 1,267,305 6,642 193,258
Net cash provided by operating activities 2,441,323 561,925 1,723,373 970,111 5,696,732
CASH FLOWS FROM CAPITAL AND RELATED
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Acquisition and construction of capital assets (2,087,071) (173,604) - - (2,260,675)
Net cash used for capital and related financing
activities (2,087,071) (173,604) - - (2,260,675)
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Purchase of investments (663,343) (449,150) (1,818,449) (1,143,638) (4,074,580)
Proceeds from sale of investments 350,245 237,151 960,142 603,841 2,151,379
Interest on investments 283,492 51,186 82,032 169,181 585,891
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities (29,606) (160,813) (776,275) (370,616) (1,337,310)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 324,646 227,508 947,098 599,494 2,098,746
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning 5,534,050 1,200,074 1,383,211 3,176,754 11,294,089
Cash and cash equivalents, ending 5,858,696$ 1,427,582$ 2,330,309$ 3,776,248$ 13,392,835$
119
City of Ames
Combining Statement of Cash Flows (continued)
Internal Service Funds
For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
Total
Internal
Fleet Information Risk Health Service
Services Technology Management Insurance Funds
Reconciliation of operating income to net cash
provided by operating activities:
Operating income 853,168$ 248,201$ (85,190)$ 640,331$ 1,656,510$
Adjustments to reconcile operating income to net cash
provided by operating activities:
Depreciation expense 1,191,793 260,275 - - 1,452,068
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable (18,431) (3,368) (814) 234,366 211,753
(Increase) decrease in due from other funds 265,194 218,726 (5,512) (4,841) 473,567
(Increase) decrease in intergovernmental receivable 11,302 2,441 - (8,935) 4,808
Decrease in inventories 10,686 - - - 10,686
(Increase) decrease in prepaid items 1,302 (49,537) (623) (1,074) (49,932)
(Increase) decrease in deferred outflows of resources 900 (5,718) 2,302 2,203 (313)
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable 5,801 83,907 15,365 (57,010) 48,063
Increase (decrease) in accrued payroll (1,504) (302) - - (1,806)
Increase (decrease) in accrued compensated absences 1,788 14,218 (2,609) 3,641 17,038
Increase (decrease) in due to other funds (24,730) (229,972) 1,274,560 14,543 1,034,401
Increase (decrease) in claims payable - - 519,750 133,621 653,371
Increase (decrease) in intergovernmental payable 110,931 - 3,037 (1,028) 112,940
Increase in post-employment benefits 10,628 9,096 403 993 21,120
Increase (decrease) in pension liability (27,088) (13,109) (4,548) (5,822) (50,567)
Increase in deferred inflows of resources 49,583 27,067 7,253 9,653 93,556
Total adjustments 1,588,155 313,724 1,808,563 329,780 4,040,223
Net cash provided by operating activities 2,441,323$ 561,925$ 1,723,373$ 970,111$ 5,696,733$
120
Fiduciary Funds
Agency Funds
Agency funds are used to account for short-term custodial collections on resources on behalf of
another individual, entity, or government.
Payroll Clearing Fund - to hold payroll taxes withheld from employees until they are paid to the
appropriate authorities.
Flex Benefits Fund - to hold Section 125 flex benefits withheld from employees.
121
City of Ames
Combining Statement of Assets and Liabilities
Agency Funds
June 30, 2020
Payroll Flex
Clearing Benefits Total
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents 230,474$ 6,610$ 237,084$
Accounts receivable, net 851 54 905
Investments 105,771 - 105,771
Total assets 337,096$ 6,664$ 343,760$
LIABILITIES
Accounts payable 6,586$ 6,664$ 13,250$
Due to other governments 330,510 - 330,510
Total liabilities 337,096$ 6,664$ 343,760$
122
City of Ames
Combining Statement of Changes in Assets and Liabilities
Agency Funds
For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
Balance Balance
07/01/19 Additions Deductions 06/30/20
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents 217,176$ 31,693,647$ 31,673,739$ 237,084$
Accounts receivable, net 45 1,160 300 905
Intergovernmental receivable 176 - 176 -
Investments 161,147 1,515 56,891 105,771
Total assets 378,544$ 31,696,322$ 31,731,106$ 343,760$
LIABILITIES
Accounts payable 40,575$ 33,600,185$ 33,627,510$ 13,250$
Due to other governments 337,969 18,651,071 18,658,530 330,510
Total liabilities 378,544$ 52,251,256$ 52,286,040$ 343,760$
Balance Balance
07/01/19 Additions Deductions 06/30/20
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents 179,199$ 30,479,857$ 30,428,582$ 230,474$
Accounts receivable, net 23 1,106 278 851
Investments 161,147 1,515 56,891 105,771
Total assets 340,369$ 30,482,478$ 30,485,751$ 337,096$
LIABILITIES
Accounts payable 2,400$ 32,723,414$ 32,719,228$ 6,586$
Due to other governments 337,969 18,651,071 18,658,530 330,510
340,369$ 51,374,485$ 51,377,758$ 337,096$
Balance Balance
07/01/19 Additions Deductions 06/30/20
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents 37,977$ 1,213,790$ 1,245,157$ 6,610$
Accounts receivable, net 22 54 22 54
Intergovernmental receivable 176 - 176 -
Total assets 38,175$ 1,213,844$ 1,245,355$ 6,664$
LIABILITIES
Accounts payable 38,175$ 876,771$ 908,282$ 6,664$
Total Agency Funds
Payroll Clearing Fund
Flexible Benefits Fund
123
STATISTICAL SECTION
STATISTICAL SECTION
This part of the City's Comprehensive Annual Financial Report presents detailed information as a
context for understanding what the information in the financial statements, note disclosures, and
required supplementary information says about the government's overall financial health.
Contents Page
Financial Trends 125
These schedules contain trend information to help the reader understand
how the City's financial performance and well-being have changed over
time.
Revenue Capacity 130
These schedules contain information to help the reader assess the City's most
significant local revenue source, the property tax.
Debt Capacity 134
These schedules present information to help the reader assess the affordability
of the City's current level of outstanding debt and the City's ability to issue
additional debt in the future.
Demographic and Economic Information 140
These schedules offer demographic and economic indicators to help the reader
understand the environment within which the City's financial activities take
place.
Operating Information 142
These schedules contain service and infrastructure data to help the reader
understand how the information in the City's financial report relates to the
services the City provides and the activities it performs.
124
City of Ames
Net Position by Component
Last Ten Fiscal Years
(accrual basis of accounting)
2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Governmental activities
Net investment in capital assets 110,348,921$ 111,810,541$ 112,305,532$ 116,792,110$ 120,231,602$ 129,469,743$ 137,632,652$ 141,703,409$ 144,730,839$ 148,292,299$
Restricted 15,338,746 20,794,194 12,081,140 18,009,657 19,525,973 19,116,323 20,842,946 21,714,454 22,260,410 23,978,574
Unrestricted 15,638,160 12,237,776 21,194,735 15,726,615 (2,573,072) 871,100 783,394 1,139,151 3,346,885 3,029,850
Total governmental activities 141,325,827 144,842,511 145,581,407 150,528,382 137,184,503 149,457,166 159,258,992 164,557,014 170,338,134 175,300,723
Business-type activities
Net investment in capital assets 243,495,813 251,498,597 272,253,133 277,649,147 303,949,791 317,734,901 320,823,796 308,134,898 311,786,131 320,199,338
Restricted 2,708,889 2,814,032 1,001,294 1,015,822 1,027,652 2,262,200 2,425,524 2,458,169 2,554,924 30,006,410
Unrestricted 218,617,981 249,745,121 268,805,782 310,375,526 261,830,409 258,217,652 304,183,289 353,749,237 382,923,270 364,718,214
Total business-type activities 464,822,683 504,057,750 542,060,209 589,040,495 566,807,852 578,214,753 627,432,609 664,342,304 697,264,325 714,923,962
Primary government
Net investment in capital assets 353,844,734 363,309,138 384,558,665 394,441,257 424,181,393 447,204,644 458,456,448 449,838,307 456,516,970 468,491,637
Restricted 18,047,635 23,608,226 13,082,434 19,025,479 20,553,625 21,378,523 23,268,470 24,172,623 24,815,334 53,984,984
Unrestricted 234,256,141 261,982,897 290,000,517 326,102,141 259,257,337 259,088,752 304,966,683 354,888,388 386,270,155 367,748,064
Total primary government 606,148,510$ 648,900,261$ 687,641,616$ 739,568,877$ 703,992,355$ 727,671,919$ 786,691,601$ 828,899,318$ 867,602,459$ 890,224,685$
Fiscal Year
125
City of Ames
Changes in Net Position
Last Ten Fiscal Years
(accrual basis of accounting)
2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Expenses
Governmental activities:
General government 2,629,067$ 2,559,365$ 2,755,166$ 2,915,560$ 4,165,152$ 2,686,082$ 3,136,291$ 4,044,800$ 3,141,379$ 3,304,608$
Public safety 14,281,351 15,144,853 15,589,369 15,943,465 12,730,107 15,524,747 17,292,304 18,202,532 18,951,047 20,956,310
Public works 16,339,571 14,938,688 15,352,458 12,721,868 12,482,265 13,650,452 13,698,162 15,667,469 16,929,643 17,259,469
Health and social services 1,250,292 1,159,849 1,005,458 1,078,118 1,161,242 1,180,361 1,342,880 1,293,038 1,499,781 1,463,008
Culture and recreation 7,703,519 8,818,851 9,082,953 8,536,548 9,857,775 9,770,521 9,872,288 10,989,672 11,059,949 11,257,074
Program Revenues
Governmental activities:
Charges for services:
General government 1,404,478 118,459 130,627 163,655 134,239 172,126 203,609 158,792 123,407 116,999
Public safety 2,571,060 2,864,844 3,194,059 3,433,170 3,652,787 3,345,400 3,768,480 3,421,439 3,476,553 3,865,956
Public works 5,231,237 6,601,518 6,026,315 295,874 715,898 277,437 268,565 2,737,534 310,035 314,576
Culture and recreation 1,490,008 2,031,204 1,980,793 1,974,037 2,029,655 1,939,498 2,135,274 2,131,253 2,158,429 1,414,160
Other activities 24,163 7,630 11,140 15,925 23,015 24,615 25,660 21,132 15,082 17,650
Operating grants and contributions 2,758,176 1,091,752 1,192,687 6,940,124 7,173,301 8,521,814 8,681,507 8,546,037 8,950,597 9,090,602
Capital grants and contributions 4,742,929 4,985,082 3,211,001 3,516,122 1,632,753 6,822,367 6,664,323 3,285,174 3,426,018 3,536,671
Total governmental activities 18,222,051 17,700,489 15,746,622 16,338,907 15,361,648 21,103,257 21,747,418 20,301,361 18,460,121 18,356,614
Fiscal Year
126
City of Ames
Changes in Net Position (continued)
Last Ten Fiscal Years
(accrual basis of accounting)
2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Business-type activities:
Charges for services
Mary Greeley Medical Center 160,115,058 171,389,850 175,011,409 174,265,003 184,201,460 181,534,863 189,944,553 194,988,247 192,530,036 194,363,177
Electric 57,545,144 57,195,559 57,353,200 60,016,205 56,636,062 58,511,422 64,339,637 68,660,541 68,342,980 64,882,140
Sewer 5,402,162 6,188,602 6,648,263 7,491,746 8,267,051 8,370,811 8,856,136 9,175,876 9,172,812 7,754,405
Water 7,650,007 8,824,494 9,125,922 9,647,203 9,584,813 9,987,307 10,502,276 10,620,863 10,414,170 11,448,309
Parking 872,625 779,976 883,899 870,246 891,983 925,177 899,705 829,993 1,011,601 797,454
Transit 5,588,406 4,828,097 5,108,154 5,463,677 5,814,552 6,337,415 6,576,578 6,746,369 6,803,540 6,735,543
Storm sewer 957,122 1,155,583 1,136,621 1,179,495 1,215,233 1,241,840 1,700,529 1,817,030 1,842,228 1,852,740
Ice arena 472,015 475,743 471,760 507,203 532,001 544,300 481,831 504,884 475,197 444,262
Golf course 220,388 235,824 220,643 256,221 248,853 268,440 191,186 184,601 179,367 150,549
Resource recovery 4,374,268 3,583,946 3,731,936 3,469,877 3,687,927 3,031,997 3,314,210 2,719,456 2,879,813 3,019,801
Operating grants and contributions 2,567,137 2,751,186 2,723,226 3,059,305 3,161,366 3,405,067 5,062,412 4,961,244 4,437,834 8,118,261
Capital grants and contributions 5,541,433 8,991,024 8,604,246 4,708,511 3,304,381 1,474,384 4,752,319 1,728,763 3,097,169 2,014,199
Total business-type activities 251,305,765 266,399,884 271,019,279 270,934,692 277,545,682 275,633,023 296,621,372 302,937,867 301,186,747 301,580,840
Total program revenues 269,527,816 284,100,373 286,765,901 287,273,599 292,907,330 296,736,280 318,368,790 323,239,228 319,646,868 319,937,454
Net (expense) / revenue
Governmental activities (29,714,108) (29,094,245) (31,775,009) (29,508,941) (29,585,529) (26,242,810) (28,647,939) (34,686,299) (38,681,521) (40,925,883)
Business-type activities 41,245,154 34,269,756 24,851,014 28,028,817 20,607,251 31,340,007 25,084,530 16,256,059 12,644,657 10,464,820
Total net (expense) / revenue 11,531,046 5,175,511 (6,923,995) (1,480,124) (8,978,278) 5,097,197 (3,563,409) (18,430,240) (26,036,864) (30,461,063)
General revenues
Governmental activities:
Taxes
Property taxes 22,821,388 23,485,295 23,913,389 25,273,931 25,988,892 27,114,273 28,166,804 29,680,915 31,204,329 32,973,640
Sales taxes 6,117,664 6,935,154 6,655,355 6,648,615 7,996,943 7,831,295 7,711,124 7,681,519 7,991,619 8,470,509
Hotel / motel taxes 1,416,830 1,518,571 1,760,462 1,845,940 2,113,310 2,272,323 2,435,756 2,412,667 2,515,468 1,986,157
Change in net position
Governmental activities 928,345 3,516,684 738,896 4,946,975 7,302,675 12,272,663 9,801,826 5,416,938 5,781,120 4,962,589
Business-type activities 68,247,717 43,854,462 37,917,872 54,678,583 28,782,559 32,395,250 53,560,047 36,571,568 32,922,021 19,624,252
Total change in net position 69,176,062$ 47,371,146$ 38,656,768$ 59,625,558$ 36,085,234$ 44,667,913$ 63,361,873$ 41,988,506$ 38,703,141$ 24,586,841$
Fiscal Year
127
City of Ames
Fund Balances of Governmental Funds
Last Ten Fiscal Years
(modified accrual basis of accounting)
2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Fiscal Year
128
City of Ames
Changes in Fund Balances of Governmental Funds
Last Ten Fiscal Years
(modified accrual basis of accounting)
2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
REVENUES
Taxes 30,355,882$ 31,908,563$ 32,319,668$ 33,755,016$ 36,080,369$ 37,207,916$ 38,313,146$ 39,760,873$ 41,716,868$ 43,506,491$
Special assessments 238,106 217,885 306,761 16,590 362,306 222,895 298,227 564,860 321,318 303,643
Licenses and permits 1,138,714 1,327,206 1,707,463 1,892,634 2,017,035 1,687,317 2,059,688 1,635,289 1,554,088 1,856,585
Intergovernmental 11,408,113 9,098,425 9,084,528 10,658,992 8,277,965 14,500,743 10,983,498 11,815,543 10,242,731 11,293,897
Charges for services 3,969,212 4,039,097 3,298,578 3,393,715 3,517,164 3,596,467 3,798,813 3,914,432 4,066,129 3,413,036
Fines and forfeitures 196,748 214,641 111,014 146,485 138,720 93,652 67,584 65,504 43,614 28,276
Investment income 635,176 320,693 70,115 419,786 404,297 529,364 169,673 530,341 1,598,321 1,579,072
Miscellaneous 476,659 3,027,255 1,219,633 863,337 825,429 852,639 930,506 1,856,014 1,231,347 1,064,583
Total revenues 48,418,610 50,153,765 48,117,760 51,146,555 51,623,285 58,690,993 56,621,135 60,142,856 60,774,416 63,045,583
EXPENDITURES
Current:
General government 2,398,630 2,405,265 2,906,491 2,720,623 3,308,736 2,655,547 3,520,312 3,806,110 2,965,150 3,031,260
Public safety 14,252,764 14,938,537 15,287,766 15,839,280 16,237,949 16,664,555 17,097,771 17,703,682 18,624,774 19,127,916
Public works 5,463,593 5,538,204 5,388,832 5,434,191 5,488,851 5,871,433 5,868,576 6,202,540 7,073,307 6,732,091
Health and social services 1,252,377 1,159,849 1,005,458 1,078,118 1,161,242 1,180,361 1,342,880 1,293,038 1,499,781 1,463,008
Culture and recreation 6,869,276 7,224,794 7,088,894 7,179,033 7,613,063 8,263,043 8,648,567 9,072,955 9,168,122 9,253,898
OTHER FINANCING SOURCES (USES)
Transfers in 7,625,145 8,476,754 8,695,389 8,725,886 9,917,519 13,410,870 10,665,237 10,451,681 10,702,128 10,890,297
Transfers out (7,484,112) (8,627,749) (8,794,765) (8,753,037) (9,879,039) (13,474,329) (10,940,973) (12,060,457) (10,924,967) (11,267,262)
General obligation bonds issued 6,690,000 6,675,000 30,455,000 - 9,395,000 11,435,000 6,890,605 6,985,000 7,490,000 10,520,000
Premium on general obligation bonds 197,459 12,885 1,302,774 - 238,187 901,045 475,349 602,484 610,152 1,025,738
Refunding bonds issued 5,980,000 - 2,090,000 - - 5,150,000 2,130,000 3,990,000 - -
Premium on refunding bonds - - 57,213 - - 436,214 189,555 326,513 - -
Payment to refunded bond escrow (7,250,000) - - - - - - (4,328,059) - -
Total other financing sources (uses)5,758,492 6,536,890 33,805,611 (27,151) 9,671,667 17,858,800 9,409,773 5,967,162 7,877,313 11,168,773
Net change in fund balances (307,245)$ 2,894,050$ 22,755,633$ (15,918,397)$ 1,184,723$ (561,674)$ 1,422,033$ 2,073,387$ 2,876,847$ 7,877,519$
Debt service as a percentage of
non-capital expenditures 19.6% 15.9% 19.2% 23.0% 21.0% 20.0% 28.2% 24.2% 20.1% 19.8%
Fiscal Year
129
City of Ames
Assessed and Estimated Actual Value of Taxable Property
Last Ten Fiscal Years
Taxable
Value as a
Fiscal Estimated Percentage of
Year Less:Total Total Actual Estimated
Ended Residential Commercial Industrial Multi-Other Military Tax Taxable Direct Assessed Actual Assessed
June 30,Property Property Property Utilities Residential1 Property1 Exemption Value Tax Rate Value Value
130
City of Ames
Property Tax Rates
Direct and Overlapping Governments
Last Ten Fiscal Years
Total
Total Ames Consoli- Direct &
Fiscal Public Employee Debt Direct School dated Area Overlapping
Year General2 Transit Benefits Service Tax Rate 3 District4 County5 Vocational6 Rates
Overlapping Rates 1City Direct Rates
131
City of Ames
Principal Property Taxpayers
Current Year and Nine Years Ago
Percentage Percentage
Taxable of Total Taxable of Total
Assessed Assessed Assessed Assessed
Taxpayer Value Rank Value Value Rank Value
Iowa State University Research Park 56,097,983$ 1 1.73%
Barilla America Inc. 37,649,430 2 1.16% 41,260,000 1 1.94%
Campus Investors IS LLC 36,949,414 3 1.14% 11,022,000 8 0.52%
Clinic Building Company, Inc.29,672,730 4 0.92% 15,981,000 5 0.75%
FPA6 University West LLC 22,357,004 5 0.69%
GPT Ames Owner LLC 21,346,650 6 0.66%-
ACA Stadium View Student Housing Dst 20,348,211 7 0.63%
Dayton Park LLC 19,707,990 8 0.61%-
CB at Ames LLC 18,148,502 9 0.56%
Ames Iowa LLC 16,857,900 10 0.52%
North Grand Mall Partners LLC 24,402,600 2 1.15%
Walmart Stores, Inc - Store 4256-00 22,468,000 3 1.06%
Cycloneball LLC 17,277,000 4 0.81%
Midwest Centers 13,720,000 6 0.65%
SUSA Holding of Story County Inc 12,743,000 7 0.60%
Ball Plastics Container Corp 10,024,000 9 0.47%
Chelan Daybreak LLC 9,469,900 10 0.45%
279,135,814$ 8.62% 178,367,500$ 8.40%
Source: Story County Auditor
2020 2011
132
City of Ames
Property Tax Levies and Collections
Last Ten Fiscal Years
Fiscal
Year Tax Levied Collections
Ended for the Amount Percentage in Subsequent Amount Percentage
June 30,Fiscal Year Collected of Levy Years Collected of Levy
2011 23,064,211$ 22,514,535$ 97.62% 3,546$ 22,518,081$ 97.63%
2012 23,516,201 23,178,276 98.56% 5,943 23,184,219 98.59%
2013 24,018,714 23,540,944 98.01% 1,970 23,542,914 98.02%
2014 25,261,403 24,795,918 98.16% 2,516 24,798,434 98.17%
2015 25,557,159 24,772,538 96.93%13 24,772,551 96.93%
2016 26,000,394 25,108,284 96.57%- 25,108,284 96.57%
2017 27,044,391 25,919,190 95.84%- 25,919,190 95.84%
2018 28,137,151 27,044,258 96.12%- 27,044,258 96.12%
2019 29,467,293 28,805,839 97.76%- 28,805,839 97.76%
2020 31,041,345 30,109,340 97.00%- 30,109,340 97.00%
Sources: Story County Auditor and City Finance Department
Fiscal Year of the Levy
Collected within the
Total Collections to Date
133
City of Ames
Ratios of Outstanding Debt by Type
Last Ten Fiscal Years
Governmental
Activities
General General Total Percentage
Fiscal Obligation Obligation Revenue Notes Loans Outstanding of Personal Per
Year Bonds 1 Bonds 1 Bonds 1 Payable Payable Debt Income 2 Population3 Capita
Business-Type Activities
134
City of Ames
Ratios of General Bonded Debt Outstanding
Last Ten Fiscal Years
Percentage of
Estimated
General Less: Amounts Actual Assessed
Fiscal Obligation Available in Debt Value of Per
Year Bonds 1 Service Fund2 Total Property3 Capita4
135
City of Ames
Direct and Overlapping Governmental Activities Debt
As of June 30, 2020
Amount
Estimated Applicable to
Debt Percentage Primary
Governmental Unit Outstanding Applicable Government
Debt repaid with property taxes:
Ames Community School District 48,125,000$ 98.25% 47,282,813$
Gilbert Community School District 27,595,000 50.52% 13,940,994
136
City of Ames
Legal Debt Margin
June 30, 2020
State of Iowa statutory debt limit is 5% of total actual assessed valuation.
137
City of Ames
Pledged-Revenue Coverage
Last Ten Fiscal Years
Less:Net
Fiscal Gross Operating Available
Year Revenues 3 Expenses Revenue Principal Interest Coverage
Less:Net
Fiscal Gross Operating Available
Year Revenues Expenses Revenue Principal Interest Coverage
2011 -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -
2012 - - - - - -
2013 - - - - - -
2014 - - - - - -
2015 - - - - - -
2016 58,511,422 51,059,004 7,452,418 800,000 161,946 7.75
2017 64,339,637 53,697,044 10,642,593 625,000 343,556 10.99
2018 68,660,541 56,603,627 12,056,914 655,000 312,306 12.46
2019 68,342,980 58,076,088 10,266,892 685,000 279,556 10.64
2020 64,882,140 53,445,511 11,436,629 720,000 245,306 11.85
Electric Revenue Bond
Hospital Revenue Bond
Debt Service 1
Debt Service
138
City of Ames
Pledged-Revenue Coverage (Continued)
Last Ten Fiscal Years
Less:Net
Fiscal Gross Operating Available
Year Revenues Expenses Revenue Principal Interest Coverage
Less:Net
Fiscal Gross Operating Available
Year Revenues Expenses Revenue Principal Interest Coverage
2011 -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -
2012 - - - - - -
2013 - - - - - -
2014 - - - - - -
2015 9,584,813 5,560,459 4,024,354 - 64,982 -
2016 9,987,307 5,771,458 4,215,849 - 454,561 -
2017 10,502,276 6,141,051 4,361,225 - 857,786 5.08
2018 10,824,699 6,211,833 4,612,866 2,870,000 1,294,591 1.11
2019 11,121,859 6,917,507 4,204,352 2,927,000 1,287,070 1.00
2020 12,004,634 7,004,160 5,000,474 2,986,000 1,243,815 1.18
Water Capital Loan Note
Debt Service
Sewer Capital Loan Note
Debt Service 2
139
City of Ames
Demographic and Economic Statistics
Last Ten Calendar Years
Per
Capita
Calendar Personal Personal School Unemployment
Year Population1 Income 1 Income Enrollment2 Rate 3
140
City of Ames
Principal Employers
Current Year and Nine Years Ago
2020 2011
Percentage Percentage
of Total City of Total City
Employer Employees Rank Employment Employees Rank Employment
Iowa State University 16,647 1
141
City of Ames
Full-Time Equivalent Employees by Function
Last Ten Fiscal Years
Function/Program 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
General government:
Management services 22.50 22.25 23.25 23.25 23.25 23.25 24.25 24.25 24.50 24.50
Finance 40.75 40.75 40.75 40.75 40.75 40.75 40.75 40.75 41.00 41.00
Planning and housing 10.50 8.00 8.00 8.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00
Fiscal Year
142
City of Ames
Capital Asset Statistics by Function
Last Ten Fiscal Years
Function/Program 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
General government:
Number of licenses/permits processed 512 462 539 524 617 559 714 635 752 561
Police:
Physical arrests 1,415 1,395 1,463 1,588 1,531 1,362 1,215 1,596 1,480 1,380
Parking violations 52,147 48,947 44,100 45,530 46,759 50,280 47,272 38,798 32,711 27,278
Traffic violations 2,953 4,068 3,204 2,543 2,981 2,451 2,614 2,834 2,328 2,092
Fire:
Number of fires 175 188 137 150 107 126 89 116 80 82
Number of ambulance assists 2,211 2,178 2,325 2,471 2,464 2,442 2,663 2,646 2,857 2,473
Inspections 1,011 829 1,058 1,263 1,205 1,435 1,074 831 501 582
Library:
Total circulation 1,388,273 1,343,758 1,222,547 1,205,620 1,255,953 1,304,434 1,280,305 1,222,360 1,220,180 961,602
Library visits 416,908 443,895 323,859 226,690 426,608 506,034 523,673 508,918 485,929 336,272
Parks and recreation:
Total number of participant visits 303,012 320,533 287,504 294,978 279,103 293,757 255,227 280,766 281,420 187,725
Total number of activities 149 148 154 160 175 187 194 196 200 175
Resource recovery:
Tons of refuse processed 56,789 53,731 48,244 27,878 50,035 41,646 45,598 37,124 33,173 33,511
Tipping fee per ton 52.75 52.75 52.75 52.75 52.75 52.75 52.75 55.00 55.00 58.75
Other public works:
Blocks of streets crack sealed 65 110 92 123 90 66 73 65 81 88
Blocks of streets slurry sealed - - - 11 22 36 33 30 -
Blocks of seal coat reconstruction 8 6 7 8 4 16 - 10 6 -
Hospital:
Total admissions 9,918 9,617 8,768 8,289 8,298 7,867 8,368 8,510 8,267 8,230
Average percent of occupancy 57.1% 56.3% 54.1% 52.1% 50.5% 49.3% 49.7% 50.2% 50.6% 52.1%
Electric:
Kilowatt hours produced at plant 341,229,148 307,447,978 318,394,938 282,348,784 278,471,640 243,388,530 244,149,566 222,873,411 167,189,716 176,914,000
Meters in service 24,436 24,844 25,141 25,353 26,023 26,232 26,475 27,324 27,348 27,613
Transit:
Passengers 5,447,289 5,759,883 5,892,786 6,619,182 6,711,665 6,785,479 6,658,027 6,572,065 6,121,023 4,577,482
Total miles driven 1,421,852 1,412,162 1,384,270 1,493,983 1,599,493 1,658,443 1,635,781 1,649,762 1,516,271 1,437,907
Water:
Billion gallons per year pumped 2.074 2.151 2.082 2.131 2.022 2.110 2.131 2.245 2.117 2.260
Utility locates performed 6,471 6,466 6,247 6,185 6,615 8,121 7,383 7,113 6,932 7,935
Water main breaks 37 18 42 47 19 19 18 42 46 19
Wastewater:
Billion gallons per year treated 2.501 1.906 2.093 1.936 2.389 2.690 2.427 2.141 2.706 2.291
Sources: City departments and Mary Greeley Medical Center
Fiscal Year
143
City of Ames
Capital Asset Statistics by Function
Last Ten Fiscal Years
Function 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Police:
Stations 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
Patrol units 9 9 9 11 11 11 11 11 11 11
Fire stations 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3
Parks and recreation:
Total number of parks 36 36 37 37 37 37 36 36 38 38
Total number of park acres 1,213 1,213 1,224 1,227 1,227 1,227 1,223 1,224 1,230 1,230
Fiscal Year
144
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Information to Comply with Government Auditing Standards
and Uniform Guidance
June 30, 2020
City of Ames, Iowa
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1545 Associates Dr., Ste. 101 | Dubuque, IA 52002-2299 | T 563.556.1790 | F 563.557.7842 | EOE
Independent Auditor’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting and on
Compliance and Other Matters Based on an Audit of Financial Statements Performed
in Accordance with Government Auditing Standards
To the Honorable Mayor and
Members of the City Council
City of Ames, Iowa
We have audited, in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of
America and the standards applicable to financial audits contained in Government Auditing Standards,
issued by the Comptroller General of the United States, the financial statements of the governmental
activities, the business‐type activities, the discretely presented component unit, each major fund, and
the aggregate remaining fund information of the City of Ames, Iowa (City), as of and for the year ended
June 30, 2020, and the related notes to the financial statements, which collectively comprise the City’s
basic financial statements, and have issued our report thereon dated March 30, 2021. Other auditors
audited the financial statements of Mary Greeley Medical Center (presented as an enterprise fund), as
described in our report on the financial statements. This report does not include the results of the other
auditors’ testing of internal control over financial reporting or compliance and other matters that are
reported on separately by those auditors. Our report qualifies the opinion of such financial statements
as the Mary Greeley Medical Center did not present Provider Relief Funds in accordance with Generally
Accepted Accounting Principles.
Other auditors also audited the financial statements of the Mary Greeley Medical Center Foundation,
the discretely presented component unit. Those financial statements were not audited in accordance
with Government Auditing Standards, and accordingly, this report does not extend to those financial
statements.
Internal Control over Financial Reporting
In planning and performing our audit of the financial statements, we considered the City's internal
control over financial reporting (internal control) as a basis for designing audit procedures that are
appropriate in the circumstances for the purpose of expressing our opinions on the financial statements,
but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the City’s internal control.
Accordingly, we do not express an opinion on the effectiveness of the City’s internal control.
146
A deficiency in internal control exists when the design or operation of a control does not allow
management or employees, in the normal course of performing their assigned functions, to prevent, or
detect and correct, misstatements on a timely basis. A material weakness is a deficiency, or a
combination of deficiencies, in internal control, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material
misstatement of the entity’s financial statements will not be prevented, or detected and corrected on a
timely basis. A significant deficiency is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control
that is less severe than a material weakness, yet important enough to merit attention by those charged
with governance.
Our consideration of internal control over financial reporting was for the limited purpose described in
the first paragraph of this section and was not designed to identify all deficiencies in internal control
over financial reporting that might be material weaknesses or significant deficiencies and therefore,
material weaknesses or significant deficiencies may exist that have not been identified. We did identify a
certain deficiency in internal control, described in the accompanying schedule of findings and
questioned costs as item 2020‐001, that we consider to be a material weakness.
Compliance and Other Matters
As part of obtaining reasonable assurance about whether the City's financial statements are free from
material misstatement, we performed tests of its compliance with certain provisions of laws,
regulations, contracts, and grant agreements, noncompliance with which could have a direct and
material effect on the financial statements. However, providing an opinion on compliance with those
provisions was not an objective of our audit, and accordingly, we do not express such an opinion. The
results of our tests disclosed no instances of noncompliance or other matters that are required to be
reported under Government Auditing Standards.
Comments involving statutory and other legal matters about the City’s operations for the year ended
June 30, 2020, are based exclusively on knowledge obtained from procedures performed during our
audit of the financial statements of the City and are reported in Part IV of the accompanying schedule of
findings and questioned costs. Since our audit was based on tests and samples, not all transactions that
might have had an impact on the comments were necessarily audited. The comments involving
statutory and other legal matters are not intended to constitute legal interpretations of those statutes.
City’s Responses to Findings
The City’s responses to the findings identified in our audit are described in the accompanying schedule
of findings and questioned costs. The City’s responses were not subjected to the auditing procedures
applied in the audit of the financial statements and, accordingly, we express no opinion on them.
Purpose of this Report
The purpose of this report is solely to describe the scope of our testing of internal control and
compliance and the results of that testing, and not to provide an opinion on the effectiveness of the
entity’s internal control or on compliance. This report is an integral part of an audit performed in
accordance with Government Auditing Standards in considering the City’s internal control and
compliance. Accordingly, this communication is not suitable for any other purpose.
Dubuque, Iowa
March 30, 2021
147
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Independent Auditor’s Report on Compliance for Each Major Federal Program and Report on Internal
Control Over Compliance Required by the Uniform Guidance
To the Honorable Mayor and
Members of the City Council
City of Ames, Iowa
Report on Compliance for Each Major Federal Program
We have audited the City of Ames, Iowa’s (City), compliance with the types of compliance requirements
described in the OMB Compliance Supplement that could have a direct and material effect on each of
the City’s major federal programs for the year ended June 30, 2020. The City’s major federal programs
are identified in the summary of auditor’s results section of the accompanying schedule of findings and
questioned costs.
Management’s Responsibility
Management is responsible for compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of its federal awards applicable to its federal programs.
Auditor’s Responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the compliance for each of the City’s major federal
programs based on our audit of the types of compliance requirements referred to above. We conducted
our audit of compliance in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of
America; the standards applicable to financial audits contained in Government Auditing Standards,
issued by the Comptroller General of the United States; and the audit requirements of Title 2 U.S. Code
of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit
Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance). Those standards and the Uniform Guidance
require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether
noncompliance with the types of compliance requirements referred to above that could have a direct
and material effect on a major federal program occurred. An audit includes examining, on a test basis,
evidence about the City’s compliance with those requirements and performing such other procedures as
we considered necessary in the circumstances.
We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion on compliance for each major
federal program. However, our audit does not provide a legal determination of the City’s compliance.
148
Opinion on Each Major Federal Program
In our opinion, the City complied, in all material respects, with the types of compliance requirements
referred to above that could have a direct and material effect on each of its major federal programs for
the year ended June 30, 2020.
Report on Internal Control over Compliance
Management of the City is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over
compliance with the types of compliance requirements referred to above. In planning and performing
our audit of compliance, we considered the City’s internal control over compliance with the types of
requirements that could have a direct and material effect on each major federal program to determine
the auditing procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances for the purpose of expressing an
opinion on compliance for each major federal program and to test and report on internal control over
compliance in accordance with the Uniform Guidance, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion
on the effectiveness of internal control over compliance. Accordingly, we do not express an opinion on
the effectiveness of the City’s internal control over compliance.
A deficiency in internal control over compliance exists when the design or operation of a control over
compliance does not allow management or employees, in the normal course of performing their
assigned functions, to prevent, or detect and correct, noncompliance with a type of compliance
requirement of a federal program on a timely basis. A material weakness in internal control over
compliance is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over compliance, such
that there is a reasonable possibility that material noncompliance with a type of compliance
requirement of a federal program will not be prevented, or detected and corrected, on a timely basis. A
significant deficiency in internal control over compliance is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies,
in internal control over compliance with a type of compliance requirement of a federal program that is
less severe than a material weakness in internal control over compliance, yet important enough to merit
attention by those charged with governance.
Our consideration of internal control over compliance was for the limited purpose described in the first
paragraph of this section and was not designed to identify all deficiencies in internal control over
compliance that might be material weaknesses or significant deficiencies. We did not identify any
deficiencies in internal control over compliance that we consider to be material weaknesses. However,
material weaknesses may exist that have not been identified.
The purpose of this report on internal control over compliance is solely to describe the scope of our
testing of internal control over compliance and the results of that testing based on the requirements of
the Uniform Guidance. Accordingly, this report is not suitable for any other purpose.
Dubuque, Iowa
March 30, 2021
149
City of Ames, Iowa
Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards
Year Ended June 30, 2020
Federal Pass‐Through
Federal Grantor/Pass‐Through CFDA Entity Identifying Federal
Grantor/Program or Cluster Title Number Number Expenditures
U.S. Department of Commerce
Direct program
Investments for Public Works and Economic Development
Facilities 11.300 645,131$
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Direct program
CDBG ‐ Entitlement Grants Cluster
Community Development Block Grants/Entitlement Grants 14.218 368,341
U.S. Department of Justice
Direct program
COVID‐19 ‐ Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding
Program 16.034 2,585
Bulletproof Vest Partnership Program 16.607 3,585
Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program 16.738 6,069
Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program 16.738 3,006
Total Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program 9,075
Total U.S. Department of Justice 15,245
U.S. Department of Transportation
Direct program
Airport Improvement Program 20.106 63,344
Highway Planning and Construction Cluster
Pass‐through program from
Iowa Department of Transportation
Highway Planning and Construction 20.205 STP‐U‐0155(696)‐‐70‐85 2,151,245
Highway Planning and Construction 20.205 20MPO‐AAMPO 326,493
Highway Planning and Construction 20.205 STP‐E‐0155(684)‐‐8V‐85 85,403
Highway Planning and Construction 20.205 2019‐006‐00‐015‐FY18 39,735
Total Highway Planning and Construction Cluster 2,602,876
Federal Transit Cluster
Direct program
Federal Transit – Capital Investment Grants 20.500 14,610
Federal Transit ‐ Formula Grants 20.507 2,494,129
Federal Transit ‐ Formula Grants 20.507 301,582
Total Federal Transit ‐ Formula Grants 2,795,711
Total Federal Transit Cluster 2,810,321
150
City of Ames, Iowa
Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards
Year Ended June 30, 2020
Federal Pass‐through
Federal Grantor/Pass‐Through CFDA Entity Identifying Federal
Grantor/Program or Cluster Title Number Number Expenditures
U.S. Department of Transportation (continued)
Pass‐through program from
Iowa Department of Transportation
Metropolitan Transportation Planning and State and
Non‐metropolitan Planning and Research 20.505 20MPO‐AAMPO 1,888$
Transit Services Programs Cluster
Pass‐through program from
Iowa Department of Transportation
Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with
Disabilities 20.513 2016‐026‐01‐015‐FY18 435,452
Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with
Disabilities 20.513 2020‐001‐00‐FY19 117,676
Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with
Disabilities 20.513 2020‐001‐00‐SFY20 116,247
Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with
Disabilities 20.513 2016‐026‐02‐015‐FY18 116,045
Total Transit Services Programs Cluster 785,420
Highway Safety Cluster
Pass‐through program from
Iowa Department of Public Safety
State and Community Highway Safety 20.600 PAP 20‐402‐M0AL,
Task 01‐00‐00 17,810
State and Community Highway Safety 20.600 PAP 19‐402‐M0AL,
Task 01‐00‐00 8,604
Total State and Community Highway Safety 26,414
National Priority Safety Programs 20.616 PAP 20‐415b‐M1HVE
Task 01‐00‐00 667
Total Highway Safety Cluster 27,081
Total U.S. Department of Transportation 6,290,930
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Pass‐through program from
Iowa Department of Public Health
Immunization Cooperative Agreements 93.268 5889I480 11,625
Total 7,331,272$
151
City of Ames, Iowa
Notes to the Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards
Year Ended June 30, 2020
Note 1 ‐ Basis of Presentation
The accompanying schedule of expenditures of federal awards (the schedule) includes the federal award activity
of the City of Ames, Iowa, (City) under programs of the federal government for the year ended June 30, 2020.
The information is presented in accordance with the requirements of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations
Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards
(Uniform Guidance). Because the schedule presents only a selected portion of the operations of the City, it is not
intended to and does not present the financial position, changes in net position or fund balance, or cash flows of
the City.
Note 2 ‐ Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Expenditures reported in the schedule are reported on the modified accrual basis of accounting – when they
become a demand on current available financial resources in the governmental fund types and on the full
accrual basis of accounting – when expenditures are incurred in the proprietary fund types. Such expenditures
are recognized following the cost principles contained in the Uniform Guidance, wherein certain types of
expenditures are not allowable or are limited as to reimbursement. The City received federal awards both
directly from federal agencies and indirectly through pass‐through entities. Federal financial assistance provided
to a subrecipient is treated as an expenditure when it is paid to the subrecipient. There was no assistance
provided to subrecipients during the year ended June 30, 2020.
Note 3 ‐ Indirect Cost Rate
The City has not elected to use the 10% de minimis cost rate.
Note 4 ‐ Provider Relief Funds
Mary Greeley Medical Center (blended component unit) received amounts from the U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services (HHS) through the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) program (CFDA #93.498) during the year
ended June 30, 2020. The Organization incurred eligible expenditures, and, therefore, recognized PRF revenue
totaling $3,792,303 for the year ended June 30, 2020 on the financial statements. In accordance with the 2020
Compliance Supplement Addendum, this funding was not included in the Schedule of Expenditures of Federal
Awards for the year ending June 30, 2020.
152
City of Ames, Iowa
Schedule of Findings and Questioned Costs
Year Ended June 30, 2020
Part I: Summary of the Independent Auditor’s Results:
Financial Statements
Type of auditor’s report issued Unmodified for all
opinion units except
for Mary Greeley
Medical Center, which
was qualified
Internal control over financial reporting
Material weakness identified Yes
Significant deficiencies identified not
considered to be material weaknesses None reported
Noncompliance material to financial statements noted No
Federal Awards
Internal control over major programs
Material weakness identified No
Significant deficiencies identified not
considered to be material weaknesses None reported
Type of auditor’s report issued on compliance for major programs Unmodified
Any audit findings disclosed that are required to be reported in
accordance with Uniform Guidance 2 CFR 200.516 No
Identification of major programs:
Name of Federal Program or Cluster CFDA Number
Federal Transit Cluster
Federal Transit – Capital Investment Grants 20.500
Federal Transit ‐ Formula Grants 20.507
Transit Services Programs Cluster
Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities 20.513
Dollar threshold used to distinguish
between Type A and Type B programs $750,000
Auditee qualified as low‐risk auditee No
153
City of Ames, Iowa
Schedule of Findings and Questioned Costs
Year Ended June 30, 2020
Part II: Findings Related to the Financial Statements
2020‐001 Material Audit Adjustments
Criteria: A properly designed system of internal control over financial reporting allows entities to
initiate, authorize, record, process, and report financial data reliably in accordance with generally
accepted accounting principles.
Condition: During the course of our engagement, we proposed material audit adjustments to
beginning net position, intergovernmental receivables, and unavailable revenue, and the Schedule
of Expenditures of Federal Awards.
Cause: There is a limited number of office staff with varying levels of experience with the reporting
requirements. This significantly limits the City’s review procedures.
Effect: The effect of this condition was financial data not in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles.
Recommendation: We recommend that City staff continue to receive relevant training and that
additional review procedures be implemented.
Views of Responsible Officials: Management will ensure proper training will take place across all
areas within the accounting division to ensure there is understanding of policies and procedures.
Cross training will take place and detailed standard operating procedures will be created/updated
for every position within the accounting division to ensure proper controls are in place. Accounting
is in the transition of hiring new experienced staff who will help achieve accurate accounting and
reporting of financial statements.
Part III: Findings and Questioned Costs for Federal Awards
There were no findings and questioned costs to report.
154
City of Ames, Iowa
Schedule of Findings and Questioned Costs
Year Ended June 30, 2020
Part IV: Other Findings Related to Required Statutory Reporting
2020‐IA‐A Certified Budget: Disbursements during the year ended June 30, 2020, did not exceed the amount
budgeted.
2020‐IA‐B Questionable Expenditures: We noted no expenditures that we believe may fail to meet the
requirements of public purpose as defined in an Attorney General’s opinion dated April 25, 1979.
2020‐IA‐C Travel Expense: No expenditures of City money for travel expenses of spouses of City officials or
employees were noted.
However, one instance was noted during testing in which incomplete receipts were included as
backup documentation for purchases during City related travel.
Recommendation: The City should require proper receipt documentation as allowed by their policy.
View of Responsible Officials: The City will ensure receipts and other supporting documentation will
be documented, tracked, and retained in accordance with Iowa State Code and City policies
regarding record retention.
2020‐IA‐D Business Transactions: Business transactions between the City and City officials or employees are
detailed as follows:
Name, Title, and
Business Connection Transaction Description Amount
Kyler Brekke, Employee, Father is
owner of Brekkes Town & County Services $ 3,578
Gary Milam, Employee, Owner
Milam Concrete & Construction Services 675
Ben McConville, Employee, Brother is
owner Iowa Concrete Leveling Services 450
In accordance with Chapter 362.5(3)(j) of the Code of Iowa, the transactions above do not appear to
represent conflicts of interest since total transactions with each individual were less than $6,000
during the fiscal year.
2020‐IA‐E Restricted Donor Activity: No transactions were noted between the City, City officials, City
employees and restricted donors in compliance with Chapter 68B of the Code of Iowa.
2020‐IA‐F Bond Coverage: Surety bond coverage of City officials and employees is in accordance with
statutory provisions. The amount of coverage should be reviewed annually to insure the coverage is
adequate for current operations.
155
City of Ames, Iowa
Schedule of Findings and Questioned Costs
Year Ended June 30, 2020
Part IV: Other Findings Related to Required Statutory Reporting (continued)
2020‐IA‐G Council Minutes: No transactions were found that we believe should have been approved in the
Council minutes but were not.
2020‐IA‐H Deposits and Investments: No instances of noncompliance with the deposit and investment
provisions of Chapters 12B and 12C of the Code of Iowa and the City’s investment policy were
noted.
2020‐IA‐I Revenue Bonds: No instances of noncompliance with the provisions of the City’s revenue bond
resolutions were noted.
2020‐IA‐J Annual Urban Renewal Report: The annual urban renewal report was properly approved and
certified to the Iowa Department of Management on or before December 1.
156
1
ITEM # _ 33a_
DATE: 04-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: PLAT OF SURVEY (BOUNDARY LINE ADJUSTMENT) FOR 1126
GRAND AVENUE
BACKGROUND:
The City’s subdivision regulations found in Chapter 23 of the Ames Municipal Code
include the process for creating or modifying property boundaries and for determining if
any improvements are required in conjunction with the platting of property. The
regulations also describe the process for combining existing platted lots or conveyance
parcels to create a parcel for development purposes. A plat of survey is allowed by
Section 23.309 for the consolidation of conveyance parcels and for boundary line
adjustments.
The proposed plat of survey for property at 1126 Grand Avenue (see Attachments
A & B) is for a conforming conveyance parcel review to consolidate Lot 9, and the
north 5.4 feet of Lot 10, Block 2, Lee’s Addition. The property is now vacant since the
house and detached garage were recently demolished. The purpose of consolidating the
lot and the conveyance parcel is to establish Parcel B, which is necessary to obtain a
building permit for a new house.
The City currently owns the property and will sell it to Habitat for Humanity of Central Iowa
for construction of a new single-family dwelling. Proposed Parcel B includes a total of
6,890.7 square feet which meets the minimum lot area for a single-family dwelling in the
Urban Core Residential Medium Density (UCRM) zone. Combining these two properties
does not create any new nonconformities.
Approval of this plat of survey (Attachment B) will allow the applicant to prepare the official
plat of survey and submit it to the Planning and Housing Director for review. The Director
will sign the plat of survey confirming that it fully conforms to all conditions of approval.
The prepared plat of survey may then be signed by the surveyor, who will submit it for
recording in the office of the Story County Recorder.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the plat of survey consistent with the standards of Chapter 23 for approval
of a boundary line adjustment.
2.Deny the proposed plat of survey if the City Council finds that the requirements for
plats of survey for design and improvements, as described in Section 23.308, have
not been satisfied.
3.Refer this back to staff for additional information.
2
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Staff has determined that the proposed plat of survey satisfies all Subdivision Code
requirements for a conforming conveyance parcel and has made a preliminary decision
of approval. Creating Parcel B rectifies the conveyance parcel condition of the unplatted
parcel. No conflict exists with the existing Urban Core Residential Medium Density
(UCRM) zoning standards and the proposed boundary line adjustment.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council accept
Alternative #1, thereby adopting the resolution approving the proposed plat of survey.
3
ADDENDUM
PLAT OF SURVEY FOR 1126 GRAND AVENUE
Application for a proposed plat of survey has been submitted for:
Conveyance parcel (per Section 23.307)
Boundary line adjustment (per Section 23.309)
Re-plat to correct error (per Section 23.310)
Auditor’s plat (per Code of Iowa Section 354.15)
Property Owner(s) & Site Location:
Owner(s): City of Ames
Existing Street Address: 1126 Grand Avenue
Assessor’s Parcel #: 09-02-103-180
Legal Description:
BOUNDARY DESCRIPTION PARCEL B
LOT 9 AND THE NORTH FIVE AND FOUR TENTHS (5.4) FEET OF LOT 10, BLOCK TWO (2),
EXCEPT THE EAST FIFTY (50) FEET THEREOF, LEE’S ADDITION TO THE CITY OF AMES,
STORY COUNTY, IOWA, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
BEGINNING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF LOT 9, BLOCK 2, LEE’S ADDITION, TO
THE CITY OF AMES, STORY COUNTY, IOWA: THENCE S 89°09’34” E, ON THE NORTH
LINE OF SAID LOT 9, A DISTANCE OF 109.82 FEET: THENCE S 00°59’18” E, A DISTANCE
OF 62.68 FEET; THENCE N 89°14’03” W, TO A POINT ON THE WEST LINE OF SAID BLOCK
2, A DISTANCE OF 109.90 FEET; THENCE N 00°54’27” W, ON SAID WEST LINE, A
DISTANCE OF 62.82 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING.
THE DESCRIBED BOUNDARY CONTAINS 0.15 ACRES (6,890.7 S.F.), MORE OR LESS.
Public Improvements:
The preliminary decision of the Planning Director finds that approval requires all public
improvements associated with and required for the proposed plat of survey be:
Installed prior to creation and recordation of the official plat of survey and prior to
issuance of zoning or building permits.
Delayed, subject to an improvement guarantee as described in Section 23.409.
Not Applicable. (No additional improvements required other than sidewalk and
street trees that are required as part of South Fork Subdivision.)
4
Note: The official plat of survey is not recognized as a binding plat of survey for permitting
purposes until a copy of the signed and recorded plat of survey is filed with the Ames City Clerk’s
office and a digital image in Adobe PDF format has been submitted to the Planning & Housing
Department.
5
Attachment A - Location Map
6
Attachment B - Plat of Survey
1
ITEM #___33b_
DATE: 4-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: PROPOSED SALE OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY AT 1126 GRAND
AVENUE TO HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF CENTRAL IOWA
BACKGROUND:
At the November 10, 2020 City Council meeting, the City Council directed staff to proceed
with the purchase of the property at 1126 Grand Avenue in order to mitigate conditions
of a dangerous building as had been determined by the City’s Inspection Division. City
Council also authorized staff to borrow funds from the City’s Affordable Housing Program
for the purchase, to test and remove asbestos, and to demolish and clear the site.
It was also determined that once the structure was removed the lot would be sold to recoup
the cost of the acquisition, remediation, and demolition. This revenue would then
reimburse the City’s Affordable Housing fund.
In the February 9th City Council packet, Habitat of Humanity for Central Iowa, officially
notified the City Council of its interest in purchasing the lot at 1126 Grand Avenue. Habitat
stated its goal would be to construct a new home for a qualified lower income household
in need of affordable housing and that the new home would blend into the current
neighborhood and be complementary to the existing homes.
The City has negotiated to sell the property to Habitat for $23,100, which will cover
the City’s cost for purchase ($7,837.80), asbestos removal/demolition ($13,138.62),
and recording/legal/platting/abstracting ($2,119.91). Staff has neogitated with Habitat
to pay a $10,000 cash deposit and pay the remaining balance of $13,100 at closing. The
City Attorney’s Office has finalized the terms and conditions with Habitat that includes
restrictive covenant language (see attached agreement).
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Adopt a resolution approving the sale of 1126 Grand Avenue to Habitat for
Humanity of Central Iowa in the amount of $23,100 based on the terms and
conditions outlined in the attached agreement.
2.Modify the terms and conditions in the attached agreement and approve the sale
of the property.
3.Refer this item back to staff for further information.
2
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The opportunity to purchase a deteriorated house to stabilize a viable neighborhood was
an important priority for the City’s affordable housing program. Additionally, the
opportunity to now sell the property to an area non-profit to provide affordable housing
for low-income families is consistent with the goals and priorities of the City’s CDBG
2019-23 Five-year Consolidated Plan and 2019 Fair Housing Analysis Impediments Study.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative #1, as described above.
Page 1 of 14
DO NOT WRITE IN THE SPACE ABOVE THIS LINE; RESERVED FOR RECORDER
Prepared by: Mark O. Lambert, City of Ames Legal Department, 515 Clark Ave., Ames, IA 50010; 515-239-5146
Return to: Diane R. Voss, Ames City Clerk, Ames City Hall, 515 Clark Ave., Ames, IA 50010; 515-239-5146
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF AMES AND
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF CENTRAL IOWA, INC.,
FOR PURCHASE AND CONSTRUCTION OF PROPERTY
AT 1126 GRAND AVENUE, AMES, IOWA
THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into between the City of Ames, Iowa,
an Iowa municipal corporation (“City”) and Habitat for Humanity of Central Iowa, Inc.
(“Habitat”), an Iowa corporation.
WHEREAS, the City has utilized community development block grant funds to
acquire real property for rehabilitation or construction, or both, of a home to be used as
owner-occupied housing for income-qualified homebuyers to further the goals and objectives
of the City’s 2019-23 Consolidated CDBG five-year plan; and
WHEREAS, Habitat also has the goal of providing safe and affordable owner-occupied
housing to low income home buyers and is willing to participate with the City in rehabilitation
or new construction, or both, of residential structures.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE PARTIES AGREE AS FOLLOWS:
I
CITY’S OBLIGATIONS
A.Purchase of Property. The City has secured the purchase of property legally described
as Lot 9 and the North Five and Four Tenths (5.4) Feet of Lot 10, Block Two (2), except
the East Fifty (50) Feet Thereof, in Lee’s Addition to Ames, Story County, Iowa (also
known as 1126 Grand Avenue) (hereinafter “Property”) and will retain ownership of that
Property until sold to Habitat under the conditions described herein.
B.Access to Property. The City agrees to grant Habitat immediate and continuing access to
the property for the purpose of construction of the property. Access for the purpose
Page 2 of 14
of construction shall also be granted to Habitat’s agents.
C. Technical Assistance. Upon request, the City will provide technical assistance to
Habitat concerning compliance with the terms of this Agreement.
D. Performance Monitoring. The City may inspect and monitor the performance of
Habitat to determine its compliance regarding the performance standards of this
Agreement. Substantial nonperformance, as determined by the City, constitutes
noncompliance with this Agreement. In the event this occurs, the City shall notify
Habitat of the noncompliance and provide a time limit to correct the noncompliance.
E. Property Conveyance. The City shall convey marketable title to the property for and in
consideration of Habitat’s completion of new construction on the property, payment of
sums set out in Section II.A(1) and agreement to sell the property on or before
March 31, 2022, to a qualified homebuyer, as set forth hereafter.
II
HABITAT’S OBLIGATIONS
A. Compensation for Purchase.
1. Habitat agrees to pay the City of Ames $23,100.00 for the Property. Habitat
agrees that it shall provide a non-refundable down payment of $10,000.00 for the
Property. This down payment shall be due to the City within one (1) calendar
week from the date of this signed agreement. The total remaining balance of the
purchase price in the amount of $13,100.00 shall be due the City at the time
Habitat has completed all other requirements under this Agreement and acquires title
to the Property from the City. Habitat shall pay all transfer and recording expenses,
including transfer taxes, any permit fees and other expenses related to the
conveyance of the Property. The City will provide Habitat with an abstract of title to
the real property continued within 45 days of the Closing Date.
2. In Kind Compensation. Habitat agrees to provide all materials, labor and services
as are necessary to rehabilitate the Property to the standards described in section II.B
so that it is safe and habitable for residential use.
3. Property Improvements. Habitat agrees to complete all construction included on
Attachment A by this reference made a part hereof. All property improvements shall
be completed on or before February 28, 2022. Habitat further agrees that if it fails or
decides to not to complete the improvements to the Property, the City of Ames will not
reimburse Habitat for any cost incurred for any improvements made to the Property.
4. Property Maintenance and Utilities. Habitat shall be responsible for all maintenance
for the Property (i.e., lawn care, snow removal, etc.) and shall have all utilities
(electric, gas, water, and sewer) transferred into its name within one calendar week
from the date of this mutually signed Agreement.
Page 3 of 14
5. Property Taxes. Property taxes until transfer of title to Habitat will be the
responsibility of the City of Ames. Habitat shall receive no tax proration credit from
the City.
B. Performance Standards. The Property shall be rehabilitated in compliance with all
applicable state and local building codes and regulations, including necessary building
permits as required. The development of any architectural designs, if necessary, for the
project shall be the responsibility of Habitat, subject to prior approval by the City.
Habitat shall submit new construction plans to the Planning and Housing Department and
Building Inspections Division for written approval before applying for a building permit.
C. Completion of New Construction and Sale to Qualified Homebuyers.
1. City shall not convey title of the property to Habitat unless and until the following
two actions have occurred: 1) the selected initial home buyer has been determined
eligible by the City (Housing Division staff) and 2) the City has completed a final
walk-thru of the property and verified that all improvements as outlined in
Attachment A have been completed satisfactorily.
2. Habitat shall provide to the City on or before October 31, 2021, in a format prescribed
by the City, the following documentation and information of the selected initial home
buyer: a) the selected home buyer meets the eligibility requirements outlined by the
City; and b) has an income that is at or below 80% of the Ames MSA (IA) income
limits as established by HUD as outlined in Attachment B incorporated by reference
into this Agreement. The Housing Division staff (utilizing CDBG program
requirements), will verify the eligibility of the selected initial home buyer and notify
Habitat in writing of that determination within 30 calendar days from the date of the
received documentation.
3. Habitat shall within one (1) calendar week after the completion of the construction of
the property, schedule a final walk-thru with the City Housing Division to verify the
construction of the property has been completed satisfactorily. Upon verification that
the construction of the property has been satisfactorily completed, the City of
Ames will schedule the closing date to convey title of the property to Habitat
before March 31, 2022.
4. Habitat further agrees that it will include in its mortgage documents to an eligible buyer
the following language:
Borrower(s) covenants and agrees that in the event it shall desire to sell or
convey the Property during the term of this Security Instrument, for a
period of ten (10) years, the Borrower(s) shall first offer the Property to
Habitat for Humanity of Central Iowa, Inc. (HFHCI), or HFHCI’s successor
in interest, in the following manner:
Page 4 of 14
Borrower(s) shall serve notice in writing to HFHCI, or its successor in
interest, by registered mail, return receipt requested. The notice shall
indicate that Borrower(s) desires to sell the Property. The notice shall also
contain an offer to sell the Property to Lender, or its successor in interest, upon
the terms and conditions as set forth in the bona fide offer.
For a period of thirty (30) calendar days after the receipt of the notice, Lender,
or its successor in interest, shall have the right to purchase the Property for
the same price on the same terms that the Property was sold to the Borrower(s).
However, at the time of sale of the Property, all payments (excluding
insurance, taxes and escrow payments used for the repair of the Property) and
the added, appraised value of any permanent improvements (which have been
approved by the Lender) to the property made by the Borrower(s) with their
funds will be repaid to the Borrower(s). If Lender, or its successor in interest,
fails to exercise the right to purchase set forth in this paragraph, Borrower(s)
may sell or convey the Property to any party making a bona fide offer.
In the event Lender timely notifies Borrower(s) that it elects to purchase the
Property on the terms provided in the notice set forth in the preceding
paragraph, Lender and Borrower(s) shall promptly, but no later than sixty
(60) calendar days after the date of notice from Lender to Borrower(s),
execute such usual and customary documents as shall be required in order
to consummate such transaction.
5. Habitat shall provide certification in a form acceptable to the City that the activities
carried out under this Agreement will meet the objective of benefitting low- and
moderate-income persons as defined in 24 CFR 570.208. Along with a copy of the
mortgage documents sign between Habitat and the Home buyer.
D. Completion Date and Terms. Habitat shall be permitted to commence construction as
soon as their financial institution has verified to the City that the down payment has
been placed into an escrow account. Habitat shall complete the construction of t he
Property by February 28, 2022. Habitat shall promptly sell the Property to qualified
homebuyers on or before March 31, 2022.
Within thirty (30) calendar days after the closing of permanent financing and sale to
the eligible homebuyers, Habitat, at its expense, shall have properly recorded any
mortgage, security agreement, financing statement, purchase contract or similar
document(s) required by the City.
Habitat agrees to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations
governing the funds provided under this Agreement.
E. Insurance. During the period of this Agreement, effective as of the start date of the
project, Habitat shall, at its own expense, procure and maintain all-risk property
Page 5 of 14
damage and liability insurance. For the term of this Agreement, Habitat shall list the City
as an additional insured on said property insurance. Property damage coverage shall not
be less than the current market value of the Property. Liability coverage shall include
contractual insurance as well as comprehensive form insurance and shall provide
coverages of not less than $1,000,000 bodily injury per person , $1,000,000 bodily
injury per occurrence and $500,000 property damage. Habitat shall furnish the City
with a certificate of insurance. The insurance company providing the insurance must be
licensed to do business in the state of Iowa and rated as A or better by A.M. Best. Each
insurance policy required by this clause shall be endorsed to state that coverage shall
not be suspended, voided, canceled by either party or reduced in coverage or in limits
except after thirty (30) days prior written notice has been given to the City. The
contractor shall also give at least thirty (30) days prior notice to the City, by certified
mail, return receipt requested, of any coverage to be suspended, voided, canceled by
either party or reduced in coverage or in limits. Habitat shall provide Workers’
Compensation insurance coverage, as required by Chapter 85 of the Code of Iowa,
for all employees involved in the performance of this Agreement. Habitat shall furnish
the City with certificates of insurance for all insurance required under this Agreement,
upon request of the Housing Coordinator.
F. Audits, Inspections and Records.
1. Prior to the transfer of title of the Property and annually thereafter, Habitat shall
promptly furnish to the City for its review and approval a current audit of its
annual financial statements.
2. Habitat shall promptly furnish the City and HUD with such statements, records, data
and information as the City or HUD may reasonably request pertaining to this
Agreement.
3. Habitat shall maintain all records for ten (10) years from the date of this Agreement
that are pertinent to the activities to be funded under this Agreement including, but
not limited to:
a. Records providing a full description of each activity undertaken.
b. Records required to document the acquisition, improvement, use or disposition
of real property acquired or improved with CDBG assistance.
c. Records documenting compliance with the fair housing and equal opportunity
components of the CDBG program.
d. Financial records as required by 24 CFR 570.502 and OMB Circular A-110.
G. Homebuyer Records. Habitat shall maintain homebuyer data demonstrating client
eligibility for services provided. Such data shall include, but not be limited to, a
Page 6 of 14
signed and dated verification of income statement, or other basis for determining
eligibility, and a description of service provided. Such information shall be made
available to City monitors or their designees for review upon request.
During the term of this Agreement, any time during normal business hours, Habitat
shall make available to the City, HUD and/or the Comptroller General of the United
States, or their duly authorized representatives, all of Habitat’s records in order to
permit examination of any audits, invoices, materials, payrolls, personnel records,
conditions of employment and other data relating to all matters covered by this
Agreement.
Habitat shall submit a Homebuyer Completion Report at the close of the finished
housing unit and/or sale to an income-qualified buyer. The completion report shall, at a
minimum, include information relating to the final project costs and funding sources,
and household characteristics as required by the City for reporting to HUD’s IDIS system.
H. Notices. Habitat shall direct all notices, reports, insurance policies and other
communications related to or required by this Agreement to the office of the City of
Ames Department of Planning and Housing, Housing Coordinator, 515 Clark Avenue,
Room 214, Ames, Iowa, 50010. Notice by both Habitat and the City shall be given by
ordinary mail.
Additionally, until completion of the project, Habitat shall submit quarterly reports
describing progress of the project activities, which shall be due no later than ten (10)
calendar days after the end of the calendar quarter.
III
NON-PERFORMANCE
A. Performance Obligation. Until March 31, 2032, Habitat shall, in a manner satisfactory to
the City, fulfill its stated purpose as outlined in II.E of this Agreement and provide
continued service.
B. Limitation on Resale. Habitat agrees the documents of the sale of the Property to the
qualified initial home buyer outlined in SECTION II will include provisions to restrict
any subsequent sales during the duration of this Agreement by imposing an agreed upon
resale ratio that will ensure that the Property will be affordable to a subsequent home
buyer who meets the income limits outlined in SECTION II of this Agreement. Habitat
further agrees that if the Property is re sold to subsequent home buyers during the
ten (10) year Performance Obligation, that they must meet the requirements as set forth
in SECTION II, for the remaining period until March 31, 2032. Habitat shall
immediately notify the City that the Property is for re-sale and follow the procedures as
outline under SECTION II.
Page 7 of 14
C. Limitation on Assignment.
1. Habitat shall not sell, assign or transfer any legal or equitable interest in the
Property at any time prior to March 30, 2032, without written concurrence of the
City. In such event, Habitat shall repay to the City the City’s original purchase price
of $23,100, which shall be due in full immediately, or if Habitat discontinues its
program, Habitat shall repay to the City the City’s original purchase price of $23,100
or show proof that the Property will continue to be occupied by an eligible household,
as outlined in SECTION II of this Agreement.
2. In no case shall Habitat assign its mortgage to a qualified lending institution, or any
other entity, prior to March 31, 2032, without the express written approval of the City
of Ames.
D. Discontinuance of Habitat. In the event Habitat discontinues its services prior to March
31, 2032, the value of the prorated portion of real and personal property (tangible
and intangible) secured with the CDBG funds, if applicable, under this Agreement
shall revert to the City. If said Property has been disposed of, Habitat shall reimburse
the City in the amount of the current fair market value of the Property less any portion
of the fair market value attributable to non-City CDBG funds. (Personal property
includes, but is not limited to, equipment, furnishings and vehicles.)
E. Default. In the event Habitat defaults in the performance or observation of any
covenant, agreement or obligation set forth in this Agreement, and if such default
remains uncured for a period of thirty (30) calendar days after notice thereof shall
have been given by the City to Habitat (or for a period of sixty (60) calendar days
after such notice if such default is curable but requires acts to be done or conditions
to be remedied which, by their nature, cannot be done or remedied within such 30-
day period and thereafter diligently and continuously prosecutes the same to completion
within such 60-day period), the City may declare that Habitat is in default hereunder and
may take any one or more of the following steps, at its option:
1. By mandamus or other suit, action or proceeding at law or in equity, require
Habitat to perform its obligations and covenants hereunder, or enjoin any acts or
things which may be unlawful or a violation of the rights of the City hereunder, or
obtain damages caused by Habitat by any such default.
2. Have access to and inspect, examine and make copies of all books and records of
Habitat which pertain to the project.
3. Declare a default with the Home Ownership Agreement and make no further
disbursements, and demand immediate repayment from Habitat of any funds
previously disbursed under the Home Ownership Agreement.
4. Take whatever other action at law or in equity which may appear necessary or
desirable to enforce the obligations, covenants and restrictions of Habitat hereunder,
including the recovery of funds. No delay in enforcing the provisions hereof as to
Page 8 of 14
any breach or violation shall impair, damage or waive the right of the City to enforce
the same or obtain relief against or recover for the continuation or repetition of such
breach or violation, or any similar breach or violation thereof, at any later time or
times.
F. Events of Default. The following, by way of specification but not limitation, shall
constitute events of default of this Agreement between Habitat and the City:
1. The homebuyer has a principal place of residence at some place other than the
Property.
2. The homebuyer causes or permits the Property to be damaged, in disrepair, the site
of a public nuisance or otherwise the site of conditions that unreasonably interfere
with the use and enjoyment of other properties in the vicinity, ordinary wear and
tear excepted.
3. The homebuyer allows unauthorized persons to reside in the property without written
approval by Habitat and the City of Ames.
4. The homebuyer abandons or ceases to occupy the property for more than 60 calendar
days per year.
IV
ENVIRONMENTAL, ASSESSMENT, HISTORIC
PRESERVATION AND LEAD BASED PAINT
Habitat shall assist the City in complying with all applicable environmental assessments,
historic preservation requirements of HUD and the State Historic Preservation Office of Iowa,
and section 302 of the Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention Act and HUD regulations
thereunder (24 CFR, part 50) insofar as they apply to the performance of this Agreement.
V
ELIGIBILITY RESTRICTIONS FOR
CERTAIN RESIDENT ALIENS
(570.613)
A. Restriction. Habitat agrees to comply with 24 CFR 570.613, which states that certain
newly legalized aliens, as described in 24 CFR, part 5, subpart E, are not eligible to
apply for benefits under covered activities funded by the City’s CDBG programs.
“Benefits” under this section means financial assistance, public services, jobs and
access to new or rehabilitated housing and other facilities funded through the City’s
CDBG programs. “Benefits” does not include relocation services and payments to
which displaces are entitled by law.
B. Covered Activities. “Covered activities” under this section means activities meeting the
requirements of section 570.208(a) that either:
Page 9 of 14
1. Have income eligibility requirements limiting the benefit exclusively to low- and
moderate-income persons; or
2. Are targeted geographically or otherwise to primarily benefit low- and moderate-
income persons (excluding activities serving the public at large, such as sewers,
roads, sidewalks and parks), and that provide benefits to persons on the basis of an
application.
C. Limitation on Coverage. The restrictions under this section apply only to applicants for
new benefits not being received by covered resident aliens as of the effective date of this
Agreement.
D. Compliance. Compliance can be accomplished by Habitat obtaining certification as
provided in 24 CFR, part 5, subpart E, evidencing citizenship or eligible immigration
status.
VI
TERMINATION OF AGREEMENT FOR CAUSE
If Habitat fails to fulfill its obligations under this Agreement in a timely and proper
manner, or if Habitat violates any of the terms, agreements or stipulations of this Agreement, the
City shall thereupon have the right to terminate this Agreement by giving written notice to
Habitat of such termination, specifying the default or defaults, and stating that this Agreement
shall be terminated thirty (30) days after the giving of such notice unless such default or defaults
are remedied within such cure period. The City shall be obligated to make no payment due
hereunder after it gives said notice unless the defaults are remedied within said thirty (30) day
period. In the event of such termination, Habitat shall promptly repay to the City the full
grant/loan amount or that portion of the amounts that have been disbursed to Habitat prior to
such termination.
VII
TERMINATION OF AGREEMENT FOR
CONVENIENCE
This Agreement may be terminated in whole or in part upon the mutual agreement of the
parties hereto, in which case the City and Habitat shall agree in writing upon the termination
conditions, including the effective date, the disposition of contract amounts and, in the case of
partial termination, the portion to be terminated. However, if, in the case of partial termination,
the City determines that the remaining portion of the award will not accomplish the purposes for
which the award was made, and the award is terminated in its entirety, Habitat shall promptly
repay to the City the full grant/loan amount or that portion of the amount which has been
disbursed to Habitat prior to such termination.
Page 10 of 14
VIII
INTEREST OF CERTAIN FEDERAL AND OTHER OFFICIALS
A. No member or delegate to the Congress of the United States, and no resident
Commissioner, shall be admitted to any share or part of this Agreement, or to any
benefit to arise therefrom.
B. No member of the governing body of the City, no officer, employee, official or agent of
the City, or other local public official who exercises any functions or responsibilities
in connection with the review, approval or carrying out of the project to which this
Agreement pertains, shall have any private interest, direct or indirect, in this Agreement.
C. No federal funds appropriated under this Agreement shall be paid, by or on behalf of
Habitat, to any person for influencing or attempting to influence a member of Congress,
an officer or employee of Congress or any federal agency in connection with the
awarding of any federal contract, the making of any federal grant, the making of
any federal loan, the entering into of any cooperative agreement and the extension,
continuation, renewal, amendment or modification of any federal contract, grant, loan or
agreement.
D. If any funds other than federally appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any
person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency,
a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress or an employee of a Member
of Congress in connection with this federal agreement, Habitat shall complete and
submit Standard Form-LLL, “Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying,” in accordance with
its instructions.
E. Habitat shall require that the language of this certification be included in the award
documents for all sub-Habitats and that all sub-Habitats shall certify and disclose
accordingly.
IX
CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Habitat covenants that it has no interest and shall not acquire any interest, direct
or indirect, which would conflict in any manner or degree with the performance of the services
to be undertaken through this Agreement. Habitat further covenants that in the performance of
this Agreement, no person having such an interest shall be employed by Habitat.
X
GRANTOR RECOGNITION
All activities, facilities, and items utilized pursuant to this Agreement shall be
prominently labeled as CDBG funded. In addition, Habitat will include a reference to the
support provided herein in all publications made possible with funds made available under this
Agreement.
Page 11 of 14
XI
ASSIGNABILTY
Habitat shall not assign or transfer any interest in this Agreement without the prior
written approval of the City. Any assignment made without such consent shall be void. This
Agreement shall be binding upon the parties and shall inure to the benefit of the successors
and assigns of the parties hereto.
XII
HOLD HARMLESS
PROVISION
Habitat shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the City, its officers, employees and
agents from all liability, loss, cost, damage and expense (including reasonable attorney’s fees and
court costs) resulting from or incurred by reason of any actions based upon the negligent acts
or omissions of Habitat’s employees or agents during the performance of this Agreement.
The City shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless Habitat, its officers, employees and
agents from all liability, loss, cost, damage and expense (including reasonable attorney’s fees and
court costs) resulting from or incurred by reason of any actions based upon the negligent acts
or omissions of the City’s employees or agents during the performance of this Agreement.
XIII
SEVERABILITY CLAUSE
If any one or more of the provisions contained in this Agreement are held to be invalid,
illegal or unenforceable, this Agreement shall be deemed severable and the remainder of the
Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.
XIV
LIMITATIONS OF CITY LIABILITY – DISCLAIMER OF
RELATIONSHIP
The City shall not be liable to Habitat, or to any party, for completion of or failure to
complete any improvements, which are parts of the project. Nothing contained in this
Agreement, nor any act or omission of the City or Habitat, shall be construed to create any
special duty, relationship, third-party beneficiary, respondent superior, limited or general
partnership, joint venture or any association by reason of Habitat’s involvement with the City.
Page 12 of 14
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on this
day of , 2021.
CITY OF AMES, IOWA
By
John A. Haila, Mayor
Attest
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk
STATE OF IOWA, STORY COUNTY, ss:
On this _________ day of , 2021, before me,
a Notary Public in and for the State of Iowa, personally
appeared John A. Haila and Diane R. Voss, to me personally
known, and who, by me duly sworn, did say that they are the
Mayor and City Clerk, respectively, of the City of Ames, Iowa;
that the seal affixed to the foregoing instrument is the corporate
seal of the corporation; and that the instrument was signed
and sealed on behalf of the corporation, by authority of its
City Council, as contained in Resolution No. 21-
adopted by the City Council on the day of
, 2021, and that John A. Haila and Diane R. Voss
acknowledged the execution of the instrument to be their
voluntary act and deed and the voluntary act and deed of the
corporation, by it voluntarily executed.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF
CENTRAL IOWA, INC.
By
Lana Stoelting, Board Vice President
By
Sandi Risdal, Executive Director
STATE OF IOWA, STORY COUNTY, ss:
On this _________ day of , 2021, before me,
a Notary Public in and for the State of Iowa, personally
appeared Lana Stoelting and Sandi Risdal, to me personally
known, who being by me duly sworn, did say that they are the
Board Vice President and Executive Director, respectively,
of said corporation, that the seal affixed to said instrument is
the seal of said corporation, or no seal has been procured by
the said corporation, and that said instrument was signed and
sealed on behalf of said corporation by authority of its Board
of Directors, and the said Lana Stoelting and Sandi Risdal
acknowledged the execution of said instrument to be the
voluntary act and deed of said corporation by it voluntarily
executed.
Notary Public in and for the State of Iowa Notary Public in and for the State of Iowa
ATTACHMENT A
IMPROVEMENTS TO BE COMPLETED BY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF
CENTRAL IOWA
FOR 1126 GRAND AVENUE
This list is not exhaustive, other items that become apparent during the construction of a new house on the
subject property maybe added to this list by mutual consent of the parties.
Construction of the home must meet all of the City of Ames Building Code standards, permit requirements
and inspections. The property must also include the following features:
1. Minimum 3-bedroom structure with basement with innovative design
2. Basement egress with stub for future bath
3. Radon system
4. Shutters on front window to enhance exterior
5. Downspouts and gutters
6. Exterior and interior doors and combination storm doors
7. High energy efficient windows including basement windows
8. High efficiency furnace
9. Central air conditioning
10. Quality maintenance free vinyl siding (including “wrapping” with Tyvek or equivalent) on the
property including all windows, doors trim, soffits, and fascia.
11. Landscaping improvements, raise grade as needed around foundation and install additional
landscaping and cosmetic work (not to exceed $1,000)
12. Replace and/or repair public and property sidewalks where needed
13. GFI electrical circuits in kitchen and bath
14. Hard-wired smoke detectors on each level, bedrooms and hallways
15. Sump pump
16. Home must confirm to City of Ames and/or Alliant Energy residential conservation standards
and be wired for load management (min. service 150 amps) for refrigerator, range, range hood,
washer/dryer, HVAC, water heater and sump pump
17. Lot to be sodded on front, side and at least 25’ of rear yard so as to eliminate areas of lot from
being susceptible to erosion and runoff. Seeding to be done on remaining rear yard.
18. Three (3) foot wide sidewalk to front door.
19. A one car garage, to include two (2) parking spaces, detached or attached.
Habitat is required to submit a development summary statement, drawings and plans, including the
following items: Representative architectural elevations and floor plan of the home.
The above items will be written in more detailed specifications and subject to final approval
of all parties.
A walk through pre-final inspection by the City will be required within 3-4 weeks prior to the construction
deadline (on or before February 28, 2022 ). A final inspection will be required on or before March 15,
2022, to verify that all items have been completed. Failure to adhere to these deadlines may cause the
agreement to become null and void.
ATTACHMENT B
2020
80% of Ames (IA) MSA***
(subject to change)
Family Size Gross Income Cannot Exceed
1 $53,000
2 $60,600
3 $68,150
4 $75,700
5 $81,800
6 $87,850
7 $93,900
8 $99,950
***Metropolitan Statistical Area
1
ITEM#: 34
DATE: 04-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: EASEMENT FOR ISU PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE PROJECT WITHIN
UNIVERSITY BOULEVARD RIGHT-OF-WAY
BACKGROUND:
Iowa State University is proposing the construction of a pedestrian bridge across
University Boulevard, connecting Jack Trice Stadium on the west with satellite parking
areas on the east. A rendering of the pedestrian bridge has been provided by ISU staff
(Attachment 1). On March 23, 2020, the City Council set the public hearing date for an
easement to facilitate this project. Below is a map depicting the location of the proposed
bridge:
An easement agreement has been prepared by City and ISU staff (Attachment 2). This
agreement allows the bridge's structure to be located within and overtop of the City's right-
of-way for a period of 50 years. In exchange for the easement, ISU will pay the City $1,
and agrees to make the bridge accessible for public use as a safe alternative crossing for
University Boulevard. The easement provides construction access to ISU and provides
that ISU will complete site restoration following construction.
2
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the easement on University Boulevard for the ISU Pedestrian Bridge
Project.
2. Reject the easement and direct staff to renegotiate the easement terms.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
This pedestrian bridge project is the first step in implementing ISU's multiuse
entertainment and art district master plan. It should be noted that this bridge will be
accessible in the future to those parking lots along S. 16th Street. This will significantly
improve traffic safety during events by reducing the potential pedestrian and vehicle
conflicts seen at the S. 16th Street and University Blvd intersection.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as noted above.
3
Legal Description: See pages 6-9.
Return document to: 3550 Beardshear Hall, Iowa State University, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011
Document prepared by: Office University Counsel, 3550 Beardshear Hall, Iowa State University, 515 Morrill
Road, Ames, Iowa 50011
IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY – CITY OF AMES
PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE EASEMENT AGREEMENT
JACK TRICE STADIUM – EAST GATEWAY BRIDGE
This Pedestrian Bridge Easement Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into April 13, 2021, by and between
the City of Ames, Iowa (“Grantor”) and the Board of Regents, State of Iowa for the use and benefit of
Iowa State University of Science and Technology (“Grantee”).
A. Grantor holds a 160-foot-wide permanent right of way that encompasses University
Boulevard between South 16th Street and South 4th Street in the Northeast ¼ of the Southwest
¼ of Section 10, Township 83 North, Range 24 West in Story County, Iowa (“Right of
Way”).
B. Grantee desires to construct a pedestrian bridge on and across a portion of the Right of
Way. Grantor supports the construction of the pedestrian bridge and is willing to grant
Grantee an easement on and across a portion of the Right of Way in accordance with the
terms of this Agreement.
TERMS
1.Location: Subject to the terms of this Agreement, Grantor grants Grantee an easement that
shall be located upon, through, across and/or over portions of the Right of Way as more
specifically depicted in the Permanent Easement Plat, which is attached as Exhibit A and
made part of this Agreement (“Easement Area”).
2.Use: Grantee shall use the Easement Area for the purpose of constructing, inspecting,
maintaining, and repairing a pedestrian bridge. The parties acknowledge that the pedestrian
bridge will be open to use by members of the public, and Grantor and Grantee may use the
pedestrian bridge as other members of the public may use it.
3.Access: Grantee's entrance upon Grantor's Right of Way to access the Easement Area shall
be over reasonable routes designated by Grantor.
2
4.Construction Requirements:
a.Construction Coordination: Grantor and Grantee shall coordinate prior to and during
construction of the pedestrian bridge. Grantor and Grantee shall each designate at
least one representative to serve as its liaison to the other party regarding the
construction.
b.Construction Plans: Grantee shall submit to Grantor for Grantor’s approval a copy of
Grantee’s plans for construction of the pedestrian bridge. Grantor’s approval shall not
be unreasonably withheld. Grantee shall certify that the pedestrian bridge is
constructed in substantial compliance with the approved plans.
c.Construction Dates: Grantor and Grantee shall mutually agree on the dates during
which the construction activities may occur in order to diminish any adverse impact
on Grantor’s activities on the Right of Way.
d.Temporary Construction Easement: Grantor grants Grantee a temporary construction
easement in an area immediately adjacent to the Easement Area as identified in the
Temporary Easement Plat, which is attached as Exhibit B, for a period of two years
from the date of construction commencement solely for the purpose of constructing
the pedestrian bridge. However, if Grantee has completed its use of the temporary
construction easement prior to the end of the two-year period, the temporary
construction easement shall immediately terminate. Grantee’s obligations and
liability with respect to the Easement Area shall also apply to the temporary
construction easement.
e.Utilities Crossings; Permission from Easement Holder: All crossings of existing
sewers, water lines, tile lines, electric lines, telecommunication lines, conduit or other
existing facilities shall be made in cooperation with and subject to the specifications of
the engineer or other official of Grantor in charge of such installations. Grantor owns
a single phase primary underground electric line within the Right of Way that will be
protected in place during construction as set forth in the construction plans at Grantee’s
sole expense. Unite Private Networks owns an underground cable in the Right of Way.
Grantor shall require Unite Private Networks to relocate the underground cable by no
later than August 31, 2021 at the sole expense of Unite Private Networks.
f.Restoration: Grantee shall submit to Grantor for Grantor’s approval a copy of
Grantee’s restoration plans for restoring the Easement Area not utilized for the
pedestrian bridge and the temporary construction easement area. Grantor’s approval
shall not be unreasonably withheld. Grantee shall ensure that the restoration is in
accordance with the approved plans and all restoration costs shall be at the expense of
the Grantee. All ditches, trenches and other excavations shall be firmly filled and
maintained in such manner as to present no hazard or obstacle to Grantor's use of the
Right of Way for other purposes.
g.Liens: Grantor’s property shall not be subjected to liens of any nature by reason of
Grantee’s construction, maintenance or repair of the pedestrian bridge or by reason of
any other act or omission of Grantee, including, but not limited to, mechanic’s and
materialman’s liens. Grantee has no power, right or authority to subject Grantor’s
property to any mechanic’s or materialman’s lien or claim of lien.
3
5.Liability:
a.Damage to Grantor Property: Grantee shall promptly notify Grantor of any damage to the
Easement Area, Right of Way or other real or personal property of Grantor occurring while
Grantee is constructing, maintaining or repairing the pedestrian bridge. At Grantor’s
request, Grantee shall either repair or replace the damaged property, reimburse Grantor for
reasonable, documented expenses incurred by Grantor to repair or replace the damaged
property or compensate Grantor for the loss of the property.
b.Inspection, Maintenance and Repair: As between Grantor and Grantee, Grantee shall be
solely responsible for inspecting, maintaining and repairing the pedestrian bridge and the
Easement Area, including landscaping and cleaning and removing snow from the
pedestrian bridge. Subject to Section 6, Grantor grants Grantee permission to enter
Grantor’s Right of Way as needed to inspect, maintain, and repair the pedestrian bridge
and Easement Area. Grantee shall provide to Grantor contact information for the individual
Grantor may contact if Grantor believes maintenance or repairs are needed and to whom
Grantor may refer inquiries received from members of the public about the pedestrian
bridge.
c.Third Party Claims: To the extent permitted by Chapter 669 of the Iowa Code and other
applicable law, Grantee shall indemnify and hold harmless Grantor and its officers,
employees, and agents harmless from any claims, liabilities, damages, fines, and expenses
arising from the pedestrian bridge, use of the Easement Area by Grantee, or from any tort
(as defined in Chapter 669 of the Iowa Code) arising from the acts or omissions of Grantee
or its officers or employees.
d.Insurance: Grantee shall maintain appropriate insurance coverage or self-insure for
liabilities that may arise from the activities set forth in this Agreement.
6.Traffic Control: If portions of South University Boulevard must be closed to traffic in order
to construct, inspect, maintain, or repair the pedestrian bridge, Grantee shall notify Grantor.
Grantee shall comply with any reasonable requirements of Grantor regarding traffic control.
7.Rights Reserved: Grantor reserves to itself the right to use of Easement Area for any purpose
that does not interfere with the pedestrian bridge or Grantee's rights granted in this
Agreement.
8.Consideration: In consideration for this easement, Grantee shall pay Grantor $1.00 upon
execution of this Agreement. The benefits the pedestrian bridge provides to Grantor,
including providing an alternative safe walking route for the general public and decreasing
traffic congestion on South University Boulevard serve as additional consideration for this
easement. No cost of the facilities to be constructed within this Easement Area shall be
assessed or charged to the Grantor.
9.Duration: This easement is granted, and all rights hereunder shall endure, for a period of 50
years so long as the Grantee continues to use the Easement Area for a pedestrian bridge in
accordance with this Agreement. Grantor and Grantee may mutually agree in writing to
renew this Agreement. Upon expiration of the easement term or discontinuation of Grantee’s
use of the Easement Area for a pedestrian bridge in accordance with this Agreement: (i) all
rights granted to Grantee shall terminate and revert to Grantor and (ii) Grantee shall remove
4
the pedestrian bridge and restore the Easement Area to pre-easement conditions at no expense
to Grantor unless otherwise agreed by Grantor and Grantee.
10. Assignment Prohibited: The grant of this easement is to Grantee only and cannot be assigned
in whole or part to any other party without written consent of Grantor.
Grantor and Grantee execute this Pedestrian Bridge Easement Agreement by their lawfully designated
officials as of the date first written above.
CITY OF AMES, IOWA
Passed and approved on , 2021, by Resolution No. ,
adopted by the City Council of Ames, Iowa.
Attest: By:
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
STATE OF IOWA, COUNTY OF STORY, SS.:
This instrument was acknowledged before me on , 2021, by Diane
R. Voss and John A. Haila, as City Clerk and Mayor, respectively, of the City of Ames, Iowa.
__________________________________________
Notary Public
My commission expires:______________________
5
BOARD OF REGENTS, STATE OF IOWA
By ______________________________
Mark Braun
Executive Director
STATE OF IOWA, COUNTY OF POLK, SS.:
This instrument was acknowledged before me on , 2021, by Mark
Braun as Executive Director of the Board of Regents, State of Iowa.
__________________________________________
Notary Public
My Commission expires: _____________________
1
ITEM __35__
DATE 4-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: AWARD OF CONTRACT - FIRE STATION #1 HVAC REPLACEMENT
PROJECT
BACKGROUND:
The HVAC system at Fire Station #1 has reached the end of its service life, as control of
the system is no longer accessible without a complete overhaul of the existing control
system. Multiple actuators have failed and need to be operated by hand to adjust station
temperature. Additionally, multiple condensing units are starting to fail, and one unit is no
longer operational. The system is 21 years old and only one vendor from the Des Moines
metro area can provide service for the system due to the proprietary control system.
City staff has proposed a replacement with an energy efficient residential-style system.
This conversion will reduce the system complexity and repair costs and will allow any
HVAC vendor to perform service as needed. The new equipment would also have a
substantially lower maintenance and replacement costs compared to the current system.
A similar conversion from a complex and inefficient HVAC system to a large residential-
style HVAC system was completed at Fire Station #3 in 2015. That conversion resulted
in a 40% reduction in the amount of energy needed to heat the station, which translates
to an 8,000 lb. annual reduction in CO2 emissions (10% carbon footprint reduction for
Fire Station #3). In addition to the energy and cost savings, that project resulted in a
significant increase in occupant comfort.
Engineering costs, which include design, specification review, onsite management, and
final acceptance of work for this project were previously awarded to LMV Engineering,
L.C. (LMV) for a contract amount of $9,600.
Project specifications and plans were approved by City Council on February 23,
2021, and the project was sent out for bids. Four bids were received on March 24,
2021, as summarized below:
Bidder Bid Amount Alternate #1 Total Bid
Engineer’s Estimate $120,000 Included $120,000
Mechanical Comfort, Inc. $110,750 $3,684 $114,434
2
Alternate #1 is to add new ventilation fans on the roof of the building. City staff has
evaluated the bids and determined that the low bid including Alternate #1 from Mechanical
Comfort, Inc., of Ames, Iowa is acceptable.
Total funding budgeted for the project is $110,000, which has been allocated in the FY
2020/21 Adjusted Budget from the General Fund. Additional funding available for this
project has been identified from savings from the Fire Station #2 Restroom
Addition. The Restroom Addition project has been placed on hold due to possible
station relocation and the creation of a second, independent shower stall during a
recent bedroom addition remodeling project.
Expenditures Amount
TOTAL EXPENDITURES $124,034
Funding Source Amount
AVAILABLE FUNDING $159,692
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Accept the report of bids for the Ames Fire Station #1 HVAC Replacement Project
and award the contract to Mechanical Comfort, Inc. of Ames, IA in the amount of
$114,434.
2. Do not award this project and rebid at a later date.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The HVAC system at Fire Station #1 is failing and is no longer cost effective to repair.
The installation of an energy efficient residential-style HVAC system will allow for local
service calls, decreased equipment costs, and increased energy savings over the life of
the equipment. Having a fully operational HVAC system with system control capabilities
will provide increased comfort for staff and visitors to the facility.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
ITEM#: 36
DATE: 04-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: 2020/21 ASPHALT STREET PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS (MCKINLEY
DRIVE, JENSEN AVENUE, AND LUTHER DRIVE)
BACKGROUND:
This is the annual program for reconstruction or resurfacing (rehabilitation) of asphalt
streets, typically located with residential neighborhoods. Rehabilitation of existing asphalt
streets is possible where the base asphalt layer is solid, but the surface course has
failed. Full-depth replacement of these streets is necessary in cases of structural
pavement failure. This project is in the area of McKinley Drive (Hayes to
Northwestern Avenue), Jensen Avenue (24th Street to Luther Drive), and Luther
Drive (Kellogg Avenue to 28th Street).
During the design phase, plans were prepared following the Complete Streets Plan. All
the streets in this project have existing sidewalks on both sides of the street, except the
west side of Jensen Avenue from 24th St to 25th St, which is along O’Donnell Ace
hardware. On March 23, 2021, City Council directed infill of sidewalk in this
section to be included with the project. Representatives of the hardware store
understand that sidewalk will be added and do not object.
On April 7, 2021, one bid was received for the project as follows:
Bidder Amount
Engineer’s estimate $1,816,344.30
Revenue and expenses associated with this program are estimated as follows:
Available Revenue Estimated Expenses
2020/21 Water Utility Fund
2021/22 Low Point Drainage
2020/21 Sanitary Sewer Fund
$ 500,000
$ 50,000
$ 50,000
TOTAL $ 2,050,000 $1,999,294.43
2
ALTERNATIVES:
1. a. Accept the report of bids for the 2020/21 Asphalt Street Pavement
Improvement (McKinley Dr, Jensen Ave, and Luther Dr.) project.
b. Approve the final plans and specifications for this project.
c. Award the 2020/21 Asphalt Street Pavement Improvement (McKinley Dr,
Jensen Ave, and Luther Dr.) project to Manatts Inc. of Ames, Iowa, in the
amount of $1,799,294.43.
2. Award the contract to one of the other bidders.
3. Do not proceed with this project.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
By approving final plans and specifications and awarding the contract, this project will
result in lower street maintenance costs, improve area drainage, and provide a better
neighborhood aesthetic.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as noted above.
1
ITEM#: 37
DATE: 04-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: 2020/21 CONCRETE PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM (8TH
STREET)
BACKGROUND:
This is an annual program to rehabilitate or reconstruct concrete street sections that
have deteriorated in order to prevent premature breakdown of the pavement. This work
will provide enhanced rideability to residents and visitors. This project is in the area of
8th Street (Northwestern Avenue to Duff Avenue).
During design phase, the plans were prepared following the Complete Streets Plan. All
the streets in this project have existing sidewalks on both sides of the street, except 8th
Street from Wilson Ave to Clark Ave. On March 23, 2021, City Council directed staff
not to include infill of sidewalk on this section.
City staff has completed preliminary plans and specifications for this project with a base
bid and then alternatives for the type of pavement used on the reconstruction of 8th
Street project. Alternative A is for concrete reconstruction and Alternative B is for
asphalt reconstruction. A table of total estimated costs for each Alternative is shown
below:
Base + Alt A (Concrete) Base + Alt B (Asphalt)
Base Bid $ 1,125,582.85 $ 1,125,582.85
Paving Alternative $ 673,939.50 $ 556,322.40
Construction Subtotal $ 1,799,522.35 $ 1,681,905.25
Engineering $ 270,000.00 $ 270,000.00
Total Project Costs $ 2,069,522.35 $ 1,951,905.25
On April 7, 2021, bids for the project were received as follows:
Bidder Base + Alt A Base + Alt B
Amount Amount
Engineer’s estimate $1,799,522.35 $1,681,905.25
Manatt’s Inc N/A $1,256,246.21
Con-Struct Inc $1,439,002.50 N/A
All Star Concrete LLC $1,809,175.70 N/A
2
Using the low bid, the revenue and expenses associated with this program are
estimated as follows:
Available
Revenue
Estimated
Expenses
ALTERNATIVES:
1. a. Accept the report of bids for the 2020/21 Concrete Pavement
Improvement project (8th Street from Northwestern Avenue to Duff
Avenue).
b. Approve the final plans and specifications for this project.
c. Award the 2020/21 Concrete Pavement Improvement project (8th Street
from Northwestern Avenue to Duff Avenue) to Manatts Inc. of Ames, Iowa,
in the amount of $1,256,246.21.
2. Award the contract to one of the other bidders.
3. Do not proceed with this project.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
By approving final plans and specifications and awarding the contract, this project will
result in substantially lower street maintenance costs and it will provide enhanced
rideability to residents and visitors.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as noted above.
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ITEM # __38___
DATE 04-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: ORDINANCE RELATING TO SIDEWALK CAFE BARRIER AND
PLACEMENT REQUIREMENTS
BACKGROUND:
On June 23, 2020, in response to public health guidance for physical distancing of
restaurant patrons, the City Council relaxed requirements for outdoor dining through
October 2020. This allowed restaurants to space patrons further apart into outdoor
seating areas, meeting the spacing requirements and minimizing the reduction of the
total number of patrons who could be served.
At that time, the City Council also directed staff to prepare an ordinance change
to the Sidewalk Café Code to permanently address two aspects of operating a
sidewalk café. These two changes are discussed below.
BARRIER REQUIREMENT:
The Sidewalk Café Code requires that barriers be placed between the sidewalk café
and the pedestrian travel path on the sidewalk. These are typically fence sections,
planters, or weighted posts with chains. This requirement is intended to reduce the
encroachment of tables and chairs into the pedestrian travel path on the sidewalk.
The proposed change would remove the requirement for barriers separating the
sidewalk café from the traveling path on the sidewalk, at sidewalk cafes where alcohol
is not served. Where alcohol is served, barriers would still be required as a means to
delineate the extent of the licensed service area.
Since the Sidewalk Café Code was overhauled approximately five years ago, City staff
has observed that the barrier requirements appear to be one of the more challenging
aspects of the Sidewalk Café Code to maintain compliance with. Even with the removal
of the requirement for barriers in certain situations, other provisions of the Sidewalk
Café Code outline the expectation for tables and chairs to avoid encroaching on the
traveling path of the sidewalk.
EXTENSION ONTO ADJACENT FRONTAGE:
Sidewalk cafes are not currently permitted to extend any farther along the sidewalk’s
length than the frontage of the indoor restaurant associated with the sidewalk café. The
proposed change would allow sidewalk cafés to extend along in front of an adjacent
business, provided the extension is approved by the adjacent business owner and the
ingress/egress from the adjacent business is not blocked.
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This change would allow for longer and larger sidewalk cafes to be established, and for
spaces in front of other establishments (such as retail stores) to be used with
permission.
City staff has prepared an ordinance to implement these modifications, which is
attached.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve first reading of an ordinance amending Section 22.32 of Municipal Code
pertaining to Sidewalk Cafes to modify the barrier requirements and the
extension of sidewalk cafes along an adjacent frontage.
2. Direct staff to make modifications to the draft ordinance.
3. Do not approve the proposed ordinance.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The two proposed changes to the Sidewalk Café Code lessen the requirements for
Sidewalk Café operators, making it easier to implement a successful sidewalk café
operation. The encroachment of tables and chairs into the sidewalk traveling path is still
prevented through other aspects of the Sidewalk Café Code, and extensions along an
adjacent frontage would be allowed only if the adjacent business owner consents.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1 as described above.
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF
THE CITY OF AMES, IOWA, BY REPEALING SECTION
22.32(B)(4) AND SECTION 22.32(J) AND ENACTING A NEW
SECTION 22.32(B)(4) AND A NEW SECTION 22.32(C)(2)(V)
THEREOF, FOR THE PURPOSE OF SIDEWALK CAFÉ
MODIFICATIONS REPEALING ANY AND ALL ORDINANCES
OR PARTS OF ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT TO THE
EXTENT OF SUCH CONFLICT; PROVIDING A PENALTY;
AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
BE IT ENACTED, by the City Council for the City of Ames, Iowa, that:
Section One. The Municipal Code of the City of Ames, Iowa shall be and the same is hereby
amended as follows:
“Sec. 22.32.SIDEWALK CAFÉ PERMITS.
. . .
(b)Where Permissible.A sidewalk cafe shall be permitted as follows:
. . .
(4)Provided the area in which the sidewalk café is located
extends no farther along the sidewalk’s length than the actual sidewalk frontage of the operating indoor
business, or no farther than the actual sidewalk frontage of an adjacent business with the written permission
of the adjacent business operator, or a combination of the two, and all other applicable provisions of this
subsection are fulfilled.
(c)Restrictions on Smoking and Alcoholic Beverages.
Permittees shall enforce the following prohibitions or restrictions:
. . .
(2)Alcoholic beverages may be served at sidewalk cafes
pursuant to a valid liquor control license, and in accordance with state and local alcoholic beverage
control laws, provided the following additional requirements are met:
. . .
(v)Delineating Sidewalk Cafe Area.The sidewalk
cafe shall be delineated by barriers at least forty-two (42) inches in height separating patrons from the
pedestrian traffic on the sidewalk and, if applicable,roadway traffic. Barriers may consist of ropes,
chains, planters, fencing, or other sturdy material that physically separates the sidewalk café from
the adjoining right-of-way. Barriers separating a sidewalk café from roadway traffic must be
secured to other barriers or weighted to prevent their encroachment into driving or parking lanes.
Barriers shall comply with detectability requirements as set forth in the current version of the
Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines. Barriers shall be set within the 50 percent of
the sidewalk designated for the sidewalk cafe, to ensure a minimum of four (4) feet of sidewalk width
clear of obstructions, and
(vi)Alcoholic beverages shall not be served or
dispensed at the sidewalk café of any establishment where minors are prohibited according to
Section 17.16, except that establishments permitted to have minors on the premises only during
certain hours of the day according to Section 17.16 may serve alcohol at their sidewalk café only
during those hours. An establishment which is not permitted to have minors on the premises at any
time may request, and the City Council may grant, an exception to this requirement on a case-by-case
basis. The City Council shall consider the site conditions, the compliance history of the establishment
and its staff, staff training, and any other factors it deems relevant to ensuring the safe and
responsible use of City sidewalks. The City Council may impose special conditions in addition to
those indicated in this Section on any sidewalk café granted an exception to dispense alcohol.”
Section Two. Violation of the provisions of this ordinance shall constitute a municipal infraction
punishable as set out by law.
Section Three. All ordinances, or parts of ordinances, in conflict herewith are hereby repealed to
the extent of such conflict, if any.
Section Four. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage and
publication as required by law.
Passed this day of , .
_____________________________________________________________________________
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
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ITEM # 13 39
DATE: 03-23-21
OLD CAF
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: DEDICATION OF RIGHT OF WAY FROM 2520 AIRPORT DRIVE AND
3300 S. RIVERSIDE DRIVE
BACKGROUND:
The City is in the process of selling property at 3100 S. Riverside Drive to Sigler
Companies. This property is located at Ames Municipal Airport. To prepare the land for
sale to Sigler, the acquisition parcel needs to be a legally platted lot with access from a
public ROW. Therefore, South Riverside Drive and the access road to the Sigler
acquisition parcel need to be dedicated as right-of-way (ROW).
These road ROW areas are currently part of the larger Airport parcel, with the property
line extending to the centerline of S. Riverside Drive. All the adjacent property is owned
by the City of Ames. The width of the ROW on S. Riverside Drive is 80 feet, half of which
is the 40-foot ROW to be dedicated with this action. The remaining 40 feet is existing
ROW along ISU Research Park's frontage. The access road to the Sigler building will be
66-foot ROW and will be named Aviation Way. Sigler was consulted regarding the name
and it will be compatible with any future land use and platting on the Airport property.
Dedication of ROW will be the first step in the process of selling the property to
Sigler. After the ROW dedication, there will be a platting process that creates the
acquisition parcel. Once the parcel is created, it will revert to its base zoning of
Government-Airport. Staff will then present City Council with a draft agreement for
sale and rezoning the newly created parcel to General Industrial zoning.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. a) Approve the dedication of right-of-way from 2520 Airport Drive and 3300 South
Riverside Drive as shown in the attached Exhibit A.
b)Direct the City Attorney to draft an Ordinance that names the access road “Aviation
Way” as shown in Exhibit A.
2.Maintain existing conditions.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Dedication of this ROW area will allow the sale of Airport property to Sigler to move
forward. It will also establish the existing roadway uses within standard ROW rather than
roadway easements. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that
the City Council adopt Alternative No. 1, as noted above.
DO NOT WRITE IN THE SPACE ABOVE THIS LINE, RESERVED FOR RECORDER
Prepared by: Jane Chang, City of Ames Legal Department, 515 Clark Avenue, Ames, Iowa 50010 (Phone: 515-239-5146)
Address Tax Statement To: City of Ames, Iowa, 515 Clark Avenue, Ames, Iowa 50010
Return to Ames City Clerk, Box 811, Ames, IA 50010
ORDINANCE NO. __________
AN ORDINANCE TO NAME THE ACCESS ROAD RUNNING EAST
FROM SOUTH RIVERSIDE ROAD AVIATION WAY; AND
ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
BE IT ENACTED, by the City Council of the City of Ames, Iowa, that:
Section One. The access road running east from South Riverside Road for approximately 1,266 feet to its
eastern end is hereby named Aviation Way, as depicted in the attached Exhibit A.
Section Two. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed to the extent
of such conflict, if any.
Section Three. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage and publication as
required by law.
Passed this day of , 2021.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
EXHIBIT “A” BOUNDARY DESCRIPTION
BEGINNING AT THE SOUTH QUARTER CORNER OF SECTION 15, TOWNSHIP 83 NORTH, RANGE 24 WEST, STORY COUNTY, IOWA: THENCE N
00°10’22” E ON THE WEST LINE OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SAID SECTION 15, A DISTANCE 1337.40 FEET TO THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF
THE NORTHEAST QUARTER OF SAID SOUTHEAST QUARTER; THENCE N 00°11’21” E, ON SAID WEST LINE, A DISTANCE OF 1342.00 FEET TO THE
CENTER OF SAID SECTION 15; THENCE N 89°44’02” E, ON THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SAID SECTION 15, A DISTANCE OF
40.00 FEET; THENCE S 00°11’21” W, A DISTANCE OF 1342.32 FEET; THENCE S 00°10’22” W, A DISTANCE OF 1263.67 FEET; THENCE S 89°58’16” E, A
DISTANCE OF 1266.49 FEET; THENCE S 00°02’20” W, A DISTANCE OF 66.00 FEET, THENCE N 89°58’16” W, A DISTANCE OF 1266.64 FEET; THENCE S
00°12’53” E, A DISTANCE OF 7.06 FEET; THENCE S 00°18’51” E, A DISTANCE OF 1033.65; THENCE S 89°41’09” W TO A POINT ON THE WEST LINE OF
THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER SECTION 22, TOWNSHIP 83 NORTH, RANGE 24 WEST, A DISTANCE OF 40.00 FEET;
THENCE N 00°18’51” W ON SAID WEST LINE OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER, A DISTANCE OF 1033.35 FEET TO THE
POINT OF BEGINNING.
THE DESCRIBED BOUNDARY CONTAINS 5.32 ACRES (232,100.9 S.F.), MORE OR LESS.
OWNER: CITY OF AMES