HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - July 13, 2021, Regular Meeting of the Ames City CouncilAGENDA
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES AREA
METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION (AAMPO)
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE, JOINT MEETING OF THE AMES
HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION, AND
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
COUNCIL CHAMBERS - CITY HALL
515 CLARK AVENUE
JULY 13, 2021
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC: The Mayor and City Council welcome comments from the public
during discussion. If you wish to speak, please complete an orange card and hand it to the City
Clerk. When your name is called, please step to the microphone, state your name for the record, and
limit the time used to present your remarks in order that others may be given the opportunity to speak.
The normal process on any particular agenda item is that the motion is placed on the floor, input is
received from the audience, the Council is given an opportunity to comment on the issue or respond to
the audience concerns, and the vote is taken. On ordinances, there is time provided for public input at
the time of the first reading. In consideration of all, if you have a cell phone, please turn it off or put
it on silent ring.
AMES AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION (AAMPO)
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE MEETING
CALL TO ORDER: 6:00 p.m.
1. Hearing on Final FFY 2022-2025 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP):
a. Resolution approving Final FFY 2022-2025 TIP
POLICY COMMITTEE COMMENTS:
ADJOURNMENT:
JOINT MEETING OF THE AMES HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION
AND AMES CITY COUNCIL*
*The Joint Meeting of the Ames Human Relations Commission and Ames City Council will
immediately follow the Regular Meeting of the Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization
Transportation Policy Committee.
1. Presentation of Annual Report:
a. Discussion and direction to Commission
COMMISSION COMMENTS:
ADJOURNMENT:
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING**
**The Regular City Council Meeting will immediately follow the Joint Meeting of the Ames Human
Relations Commission and Ames City Council.
PROCLAMATION:
1. Proclamation for Parks & Recreation Month, July 2021
CONSENT AGENDA: All items listed under the Consent Agenda will be enacted by one motion.
There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a request is made prior to the time the
Council members vote on the motion.
2. Motion approving payment of claims
3. Motion approving Minutes of Regular Meeting held June 22, 2021, and Special Meetings held
June 15, 2021, and June 24, 2021
4. Motion approving Report of Change Orders for period June 16 - 30, 2021
5. Motion certifying Civil Service candidates
6. Motion approving New 12-Month Special Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service &
Sunday Sales - Northcrest Community 1801 20th Street Pending Dram Shop Insurance
7. Motion approving Premise Update - Inside Golf, LLC Class C Liquor License with Sunday
Sales -2801 Grand Ave #1075
8. Motion approving New 12-Month Special Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service &
Sunday Sales - Burgie’s Coffee Co North, LLC 3701 Stange Road
9.Motion approving renewal of the following Beer Permits, Wine Permits and Liquor Licenses:
a. Class C Liquor License with Sunday Sales - Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, 105
Chestnut
b. Class C Liquor License with Living Quarters & Sunday Sales - Sportsman’s Lounge, 123
Main Street
c. Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit, Class C Beer Permit (Carryout) and
Sunday Sales - AJ’s Liquor II, 2515 Chamberlain
d. Special Class C Liquor License and Sunday Sales - Huhot Mongolian Grill, 703 S. Duff
Avenue Suite 105, Pending Dram Shop Insurance
e. Class C Liquor License with Sunday Sales - Welch Ave Station, 207 Welch Avenue
f. Class B Liquor License, Class B Wine Permit, Catering, Outdoor Service & Sunday Sales -
Courtyard by Marriott Ames, 311 S. 17th Street
10. Resolution approving COTA Special Project Funding Grant to Story Theater Company in the
amount of $1,000
11. Resolution approving Encroachment Permit Agreement for Sign at 400 Main Street
12. Resolution approving Memorandum of Understanding with Story County to apply for grant
funding under the 2021 Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice
Assistance Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program and authorize application
for that Grant
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13. Resolution approving Electric Utility Easement on State of Iowa property for the installation of
an electrical pull box on Arbor Street
14. Resolution awarding a contract to Bobcat of Ames, Iowa, for purchase of one compact track
loader for Parks Maintenance in the amount of $59,442.99
15. Resolution approving Change Order No. 1 to Emerson Process Management, Power & Water
Solutions, Inc., of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for the Power Plant DCS Hardware and Software
Upgrade in the amount of $175,855 with applicable sales tax being paid by the City in an amount
up to $12,309.85 directly to the state of Iowa
16. Resolution authorizing additional repairs to Water Pollution Control Facility Methane Engine No.
2 by Interstate Power Systems of Altoona, Iowa, in the additional amount of $22,264
17. Resolution awarding contract to Boland Recreation of Marshalltown, Iowa, for the North River
Valley Park Playground Replacement Project in the amount of $54,085
18. Resolution awarding contract to Outdoor Recreation Products of Omaha, Nebraska, for the Inis
Grove Park Playground Replacement Project in the amount of $53,724
19. Resolution approving contract and bond for 2018/19 Main Street Pavers - Burnett to Kellogg
20. Resolution approving partial completion of public improvements and reducing security for
Domani Subdivision, 1st Addition
21. Resolution approving partial completion of public improvements and reducing security for
Quarry Estates Subdivision, 3rd Addition
22. Resolution approving partial completion of public improvements and reducing security for
Quarry Estates Subdivision, 4th Addition
23. Resolution approving partial completion of public improvements and reducing security for
Scenic Valley Subdivision, 4th Addition
PUBLIC FORUM: This is a time set aside for comments from the public on topics of City business
other than those listed on this agenda. Please understand that the Council will not take any action
on your comments at this meeting due to requirements of the Open Meetings Law, but may do so
at a future meeting. The Mayor and City Council welcome comments from the public; however, at
no time is it appropriate to use profane, obscene, or slanderous language. The Mayor may limit each
speaker to three minutes.
PUBLIC WORKS:
24. Staff Report on 12th Street and Duff Avenue Pedestrian Crossing
25. Motion authorizing staff to solicit and engage professional engineering services for a
sidewalk/path infill assessment project at 1305 Dickinson Avenue, 4535 Mortensen Road,
and/or 4515 Mortensen Road for Mortensen Road Sidewalk Infill Project if installation has not
been completed by the property owners on or before July 23, 2021
ADMINISTRATION:
26. Staff Report on Status of Reinvestment District Projects (No action requested at this time.)
PLANNING & HOUSING:
27. Resolution awarding Downtown Facade Grants for improvements at 108 Main Street, 209 and
211 Main Street, and 301 Main Street
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28. Resolution approving return of $198,000 of City funding to the Department of Housing and
Urban Development for the City-owned properties located at 519, 525, and 601 Sixth Street to
be reprogrammed for use for the infrastructure improvements at the Baker Housing Subdivision
along State Avenue
HEARINGS:
29. Hearing on Rezoning with Master Plan of 4514 and 4605 Hyde Avenue from Agricultural (A)
to Suburban Residential Low Density (FS-RL):
a. Resolution approving Zoning Change Agreement
b. First passage of ordinance
30. Hearing on Sludge Pumping Building Improvements Project:
a. Resolution approving final plans and specifications and awarding contract to Woodruff
Construction, Inc., of Ames, Iowa, in the amount of $369,700
ORDINANCES:
DISPOSITION OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL:
COUNCIL COMMENTS:
ADJOURNMENT:
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ITEM: AAMPO 1
DATE: 7-13-21
AMES AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE
SUBJECT: FINAL FFY 2022 - 2025 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT
PROGRAM (TIP)
BACKGROUND:
To receive federal funds for transportation improvement projects, it is necessary for the
projects to be part of the approved statewide plan. The initial step in this process is for the Ames Area MPO to develop a Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP). The TIP includes four-years of project programming and a new TIP is created annually. Projects
included in the TIP involve street improvements, CyRide improvements, and trail projects. In spring 2021, the Ames Area MPO distributed regional applications for new funding for
Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) and Transportation Alternative Program (STBG-TAP) projects.
STBG (Surface Transportation Block Grant)
Two (2) applications were received for regional STBG funds.
TPMS # Project Sponsor Project Name Fund Project Year
(NEW)
-
City of
Ames
S 16th St. Widening
(University Blvd – Apple Pl) $3,104,000 $3,880,000 FFY25
CyRide Vehicle Replacement $225,000 $850,000 FFY25
Total New STBG Requests: $3,329,000
To maintain fiscal constraint, the recommendation was to award $2,814,000 of the requested $3,104,000 for the S 16th St widening project application (72.5% of total project cost) in FFY 2025 and to award the fully requested amount of $225,000 (26.5% of total project cost) for CyRide’s vehicle replacement application in FFY 2025.
STBG/STBG-Swap Fiscal Constraint
2022 2023 2024 2025
UNOBLIGATED BALANCE (CARRYOVER) $3,305,943 $387,575 $206,575 $1,311,575
STBG/SWAP TARGET $1,696,632 $1,664,000 $1,664,000 $1,664,000
STBG-TAP-FLEX TARGET $0 $66,000 $66,000 $66,000
SUBTOTAL $5,002,575 $2,117,575 $1,936,575 $3,041,575
PROGRAM FUNDS $4,615,000 $1,911,000 $625,000 $3,039,000
BALANCE $387,575 $206,575 $1,311,575 $2,575
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STBG-TAP (Transportation Alternatives Program)
The Ames Area MPO has established a March 31 application deadline for STBG-TAP applications, which provides four weeks for the Iowa DOT to review applications for
eligibility. The MPO received zero new project applications for regional STBG-TAP funds.
TPMS # Project Sponsor Fund Project
- - none - - -
Total New STBG-TAP Requests: $0
While no TAP applications were received this year, two changes from the previous TIP to utilize accruing TAP funds more effectively:
• Remove Project #21260 (one of the Skunk River Trail projects) from the program
• Modify Project #19249 (Ioway Creek Trail Project) to increase federal funding from
$159,000 to $400,000 in FFY22 and modify the extents to be “From SE 16th St – S 5th St” with a new total project cost of $922,000.
As discussed at the May 25, 2021, Policy Committee meeting, the funding shift noted above from the Skunk River Trail project to the Ioway Creek Trail project is being done to
meet the IDOT deadline for expenditure of the funds. The Skunk River Trail project was for placement of the bridge over Ioway Creek. This work is being included with the Grand Avenue extension project utilizing local funds.
TAP Fiscal Constraint
2022 2023 2024 2025
UNOBLIGATED BALANCE (CARRYOVER) $425,637 $19,513 $105,513 $191,513
TAP TARGET $86,414 $86,000 $86,000 $86,000
STBG-TAP-FLEX TARGET $67,462 $0 $0 $0
SUBTOTAL $579,513 $105,513 $191,513 $277,513
PROGRAM FUNDS $560,000 $0 $0 $0
BALANCE $19,513 $105,513 $191,513 $227,513
A map and full list of projects included in the FFY 2022-2025 TIP can be seen starting
on page 20 (highway/trail projects) and page 24 (transit projects) of the TIP document.
DEVELOPMENT SCHEDULE:
The development schedule for the FY 2022 - 2025 TIP is as follows:
• May 13, 2021 – Technical Committee reviewed draft and made recommendation
• May 25, 2021 – Policy Committee approved draft and set public hearing
• May 26, 2021 – Public open house (virtual)
• June 1, 2021 – Draft submitted to DOT for review
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• July 13, 2021 – Policy Committee holds public hearing and takes approval action
• July 15, 2021 – Final approved TIP due to DOT
• October 1, 2021 – TIP is effective and included in State TIP
The Transportation Policy Committee unanimously approved the Draft TIP on May
25, 2021. During the public comment period, the document and project maps were
available online and at a virtually held public input session. One public comment was
received by staff and this comment was documented in the Appendix of the final
document. AAMPO staff received and addressed minor comments from the Iowa
Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration, and Federal Transit
Administration. The Final FFY 2022-2025 Transportation Improvement Program is due to
the Iowa Department of Transportation by July 15, 2021.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the Final FFY 2022 - 2025 Transportation Improvement Program for
submission to the Iowa Department of Transportation.
2. Approve the Final FFY 2022 - 2025 Transportation Improvement Program with
Transportation Policy Committee modifications for submission to the Iowa
Department of Transportation.
ADMINISTRATOR’S RECOMMENDATION:
The FFY 2022-2025 TIP has been open for public comment and has been reviewed by
State and Federal funding agencies, with comments being incorporated into the final
document.
Therefore, it is recommended by the Administrator that the Transportation Policy
Committee adopt Alternative No. 1, as noted above.
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The Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization prepared this report with funding from the U.S. Department of
Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration, and in part through local matching
funds of the Ames Area MPO member governments. These contents are the responsibility of the Ames Area MPO. The
U.S. government and its agencies assume no liability for the contents of this report or for the use of its contents. The
Ames Area MPO approved this document on July 13, 2021. Please call (515) 239-5160 to obtain permission to use.
FINAL
FFY 2022-2025
Transportation
Improvement
Program
The Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization prepared this report with funding from the U.S. Department of
Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration, and in part through local matching
funds of the Ames Area MPO member governments. These contents are the responsibility of the Ames Area MPO. The
U.S. government and its agencies assume no liability for the contents of this report or for the use of its contents. The Ames
Area MPO approved this document on May 25, 2021. Please call (515) 239-5160 to obtain permission to use.
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FFY 2022-2025 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM | AAMPO
CONTENTS
Introduction..................................................................................................................................................4
Document Overview ................................................................................................................................4
AAMPO Overview and Planning Area....................................................................................................4
Transportation Policy Committee............................................................................................................5
Transportation Technical Committee.......................................................................................................6
Public Participation......................................................................................................................................7
Website.....................................................................................................................................................7
Outreach...................................................................................................................................................7
Public Involvement Opportunities ...........................................................................................................7
Performance-Based Planning.......................................................................................................................8
Overview..................................................................................................................................................8
Safety (PM1)............................................................................................................................................8
Pavement and Bridge (PM2)....................................................................................................................9
System and Freight Reliability (PM3) ...................................................................................................10
Transit Asset Management.....................................................................................................................11
Transit Safety.........................................................................................................................................12
Regional Transportation Goals ..............................................................................................................12
Air Quality .............................................................................................................................................13
Project Selection........................................................................................................................................14
Overview................................................................................................................................................14
Regional Applications............................................................................................................................14
STBG Selection Criteria ........................................................................................................................14
TAP Selection Criteria...........................................................................................................................14
Transit Projects ......................................................................................................................................15
FFY 2021 Project Status Report................................................................................................................16
Financial Analysis .....................................................................................................................................17
Overview................................................................................................................................................17
Iowa DOT O&M Estimated Expenditures and Funding........................................................................17
Fiscal Tables ..........................................................................................................................................18
Highway Program (FFY 2022 – 2025)......................................................................................................21
Overview................................................................................................................................................21
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FFY 2022-2025 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM | AAMPO
Programmed Highway Projects .............................................................................................................22
Transit Program (FFY 2022-2025)............................................................................................................25
Overview................................................................................................................................................25
Programmed Transit Projects.................................................................................................................26
FFY 2022 Transit Project Justifications.................................................................................................30
Changing an Approved TIP.......................................................................................................................34
Amendments ..........................................................................................................................................34
Administrative Modifications ................................................................................................................34
Appendix A – Resolution of Adoption......................................................................................................36
Appendix B – Self-Certification of Planning Activities............................................................................37
Appendix C – List of Federal and State Funding Programs......................................................................38
Appendix D – STBG & TAP Application Forms......................................................................................43
Appendix E – Public Comments................................................................................................................48
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FFY 2022-2025 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM | AAMPO
Introduction
Document Overview
The Federal Fiscal Year 2022 - 2025 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is the short-range
implementation program for federally funded and regionally significant transportation projects. The
TIP is a requirement of 23 CFR 450.326 for metropolitan planning organizations to develop a program,
covering at least four years, which reflects the investment priorities established in the metropolitan
transportation plan. The Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (AAMPO) develops a new TIP
annually in coordination with the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT), Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA), Federal Transit Administration (FTA), the City of Ames, the City of Gilbert,
Story County, Boone County, Ames Transit Agency (CyRide), other local agencies and stakeholders, as
well as the public. The Ames Area TIP is included in the State Transportation Improvement Program
(STIP), which is developed by the Iowa Department of Transportation.
AAMPO Overview and Planning Area
AAMPO was officially designated the MPO of the Ames urbanized area by the Governor of Iowa in
March 2003. This designation was the result of the Ames urbanized area having a population greater
than 50,000 in the 2000 Census.
As a result of the 2010 Census, the urbanized areas of Ames and Gilbert were combined into one
urbanized area, therefore requiring the Metropolitan Planning Area to be expanded to encompass this
area in its entirety. The Ames Area MPO approved the current Metropolitan Planning Area boundary
on November 13, 2012 (shown in Figure 1). The City of Gilbert and Iowa State University were added to
the Transportation Policy Committee on March 26, 2013.
Figure 1: AAMPO Boundary (Adopted Nov 13, 2012)
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FFY 2022-2025 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM | AAMPO
The Ames Area MPO provides and coordinates various transportation planning and improvement
efforts throughout the Ames urban area.
Transportation Policy Committee
Transportation Policy Committee Membership
Representative Agency Member Representative Agency Role
City of Ames (Chair)John Haila Mayor
City of Ames Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen Council Member
City of Ames Gloria Betcher Council Member
City of Ames Amber Corrieri Council Member
City of Ames Tim Gartin Council Member
City of Ames David Martin Council Member
City of Ames Rachel Junck Council Member
Boone County Bill Zinnel Board of Supervisors
Story County Linda Murken Board of Supervisors
Ames Transit Agency (CyRide)Jacob Ludwig CyRide Board Member
City of Gilbert Jonathan Popp Mayor
Iowa Dept. of Transportation ‡Andy Loonan District 1 Transportation Planner
Iowa Dept. of Transportation ‡Zac Bitting Metropolitan and Regional Planning Coordinator
Iowa Dept. of Transportation ‡Cindy Shearer Statewide Planning Support
Federal Highway Administration ‡Darla Hugaboom Iowa Division Community Planner
Federal Highway Administration ‡Sean Litteral Planning and Development Team Leader
Federal Transit Administration ‡Gerri Doyle Region 7 Community Planner
Iowa State University ‡Cathy Brown Director for Planning Services
‡ Non-voting
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FFY 2022-2025 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM | AAMPO
Transportation Technical Committee
The Transportation Technical Committee (TTC) consists of technical personnel from various agencies
involved in transportation issues within the planning area. The TTC formulates the procedural details of
the Transportation Planning Work Program. The committee reviews and monitors the output of
various MPO activities identified in the work program and makes recommendations to the policy
committee. The committee is also responsible for assisting in developing the short and long-range
transportation plans. The Iowa Department of Transportation, the Federal Highway Administration,
and the Federal Transit Administration serve as advisory, non-voting, representatives.
‡ Non-voting
Transportation Technical Committee Membership
Representative Agency Member Representative Agency Role
City of Ames (Chair)Damion Pregitzer Traffic Engineer
City of Ames (Vice-Chair)Kelly Diekmann Director of Planning & Housing
City of Ames Justin Clausen Operations Manager
City of Ames Justin Moore Planner
City of Ames Tracy Peterson Municipal Engineer
Ames Transit Agency (CyRide)Barb Neal Transit Director
Iowa State University Sarah Lawrence Campus Planner
Boone County Scott Kruse County Engineer
Story County Darren Moon County Engineer
Ames Community School Dist.Gerry Peters Facilities Director
Ames Economic Development Commission Dan Culhane President & Chief Executive Officer
City of Ames ‡John Joiner Public Works Director
City of Ames ‡Kyle Thompson Transportation Planner
Iowa Dept. of Transportation ‡Andy Loonan District 1 Transportation Planner
Iowa Dept. of Transportation ‡Zac Bitting Metropolitan and Regional Planning
Coordinator
Iowa Dept. of Transportation ‡Cindy Shearer Statewide Planning Support
Federal Highway Administration ‡Darla Hugaboom Iowa Division Community Planner
Federal Highway Administration ‡Sean Litteral Planning and Development Team Leader
Federal Transit Administration ‡Gerri Doyle Region 7 Community Planner
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FFY 2022-2025 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM | AAMPO
Public Participation
This document was developed in coordination with AAMPO member agencies, regional stakeholders,
and members of the public using the process described in the AAMPO Public Participation Plan. This
process includes strategies to disseminate information about the project selection process and
provides opportunities for interested parties to provide information to the policy committee.
Website
The Ames Area MPO utilizes its website at www.aampo.org to make documents, maps, and other
materials accessible anytime of any day in a format that is adaptable to mobile devices and website
text which can be translated into any language available through translation services. There is a
subpage of the website dedicated to the Transportation Improvement Program. Here, both current
and past versions of Transportation Improvement Programs can be found, and public meetings and
comment opportunities are posted.
Outreach
Anyone may sign-up to receive notifications of news and events published from the MPO with our e-
notification system. During the development of this program, users received e-notifications pertaining
to FFY 2022-2025 TIP public meetings, public comment periods, and draft documents.
Additionally, AAMPO utilizes local publications, such as the Ames Tribune, to publicize public input
opportunities and public hearing dates.
Public Involvement Opportunities
There were three primary opportunities for public involvement and feedback including:
Public Open House: An open house provided members of the public the opportunity to drop-in
to view projects, meet with staff, and leave comments on the proposed program. The event,
hosted on May 26, 2021, was held virtually via a Microsoft Teams meeting due to COVID-19
restrictions. No formal presentation was given allowing for visitors to come and go at any time
during the event.
Public Comment Period: A public comment period was made available from May 26, 2021 to
June 30, 2021. The draft TIP document was made available online and members of the public
could submit their comments on the draft document or listed projects via email or via mail.
Public comments received by staff are shown in Appendix E.
Public Hearing: During the July 13, 2021 Transportation Policy Committee meeting, a public
hearing was held prior to final adoption of this TIP. This hearing provided time for anyone to
address the committee prior to consideration and adoption of the TIP. Public participants could
join the meeting via Zoom. Transportation Policy Committee meetings are currently
livestreamed on Ames Channel 12 and on YouTube.
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FFY 2022-2025 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM | AAMPO
Performance-Based Planning
Overview
With the passing of the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st-Centurty (MAP-21) transportation bill,
and continuing in the FAST-Act, states and MPOs are required to use performance-based
transportation planning practices. MPO Transportation Improvement Programs are required to
document compliance with each of the performance-based planning categories including safety (PM1),
pavement and bridge (PM2), system and freight reliability (PM3), transit asset management, and
transit safety.
Safety (PM1)
Compliance with safety performance-based planning requirement began May 27, 2018 for MPOs.
MPOs can choose to support the DOT safety targets or the MPOs can set their own unique targets.
Rather than setting its own safety targets, AAMPO has chosen to support the Iowa DOT’s safety targets
as published in the most recent Iowa Highway Safety Improvement Program Annual Report and shown
in Table 1. The MPO supports those targets by reviewing and programming all Highway Safety
Improvement Program (HSIP) projects within the MPO boundary that are included in the DOT’s TIP.
Any Iowa DOT Sponsored HSIP projects within the MPO area were selected based on the strategies
included in the Strategic Highway Safety Plan and safety performance measures and were approved by
the Iowa Transportation Commission. The Iowa DOT conferred with numerous stakeholder groups,
including AAMPO, as part of its target setting process. Working in partnership with local agencies, Iowa
DOT safety investments were identified and programmed which will construct effective
countermeasures to reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries. The Iowa DOT projects chosen for
HSIP investment are based on crash history, roadway characteristics, and the existence of
infrastructure countermeasure that can address the types of crashes present. The Iowa DOT continues
to utilize a systemic safety improvement process rather than relying on “hot spot” safety
improvements.
Table 1: Safety (PM1) Targets (adopted by AAMPO on 09/22/20)
Five Year Rolling AveragesPerformance Measure 2015-2019 Baseline 2017-2021 Target
Number of Fatalities 342.0 336.8
Fatality Rate – per 100 million VMT 1.019 0.983
Number of Serious Injuries 1,420.0 1,370.8
Serious Injury Rate – per 100 million VMT 4.230 4.002
Non-Motorized Fatalities and Serious Injuries 132.6 131.0
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FFY 2022-2025 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM | AAMPO
Pavement and Bridge (PM2)
Compliance with PM2 performance-based planning requirements began on May 20, 2019 for MPOs.
MPOs can choose to support the DOT PM2 targets, or they can set their own unique targets. Rather
than setting its own pavement and bridge targets, the AAMPO has chosen to support the Iowa DOT’s
pavement and bridge targets as submitted in the most recent baseline period performance report and
shown in Table 2. The MPO supports those targets by reviewing and programming all Interstate and
National Highway System projects within the MPO boundary that are included in the DOT’s
Transportation Improvement Program.
Any Iowa DOT sponsored pavement and bridge projects within the MPO area were determined in
alignment with the Iowa Transportation Asset Management Plan (TAMP) and the pavement and bridge
performance measures. The TAMP connects Iowa in Motion 2045 and system/modal plans to Iowa
DOT’s Five-Year Program and the STIP. Iowa in Motion 2045 defines a vision for the transportation
system over the next 20 years, while the Five-Year Program and STIP identify specific investments over
the next four to five years. The TAMP has a 10-year planning horizon and helps ensure that
investments in the Five-Year Program and STIP are consistent with Iowa DOT’s longer-term vision.
Starting in 2019, the TAMP began to integrate the pavement and bridge performance targets.
The Iowa DOT conferred with numerous stakeholder groups, including the AAMPO and local owners of
NHS assets, as part of its target setting process. The methodology used to set targets used current and
historical data on condition and funding to forecast future condition. Asset management focuses on
performing the right treatment at the right time to optimize investments and outcomes. Management
systems are utilized to predict bridge and pavement needs and help determine the amount of funding
needed for stewardship of the system. The TAMP discusses the major investment categories that the
Commission allocates funding through. Once the Iowa Transportation Commission approves the
funding for these categories, the Iowa DOT recommends the allocation of the funds to specific projects
using the processes described in the TAMP. Pavement and bridge projects are programmed to help
meet the desired program outcomes documented in the TAMP.
Table 2: Pavement and Bridge (PM2) Targets (adopted by AAMPO on 09/25/18)
Performance Measure 2017
Baseline
4 Year
Targets
Percentage of pavements of the Interstate System in Good condition N/A 49.4%
Percentage of pavements of the Interstate System in Poor condition N/A 2.7%
Percentage of pavements of the non-Interstate NHS in Good condition 50.9%46.9%
Percentage of pavements of the non-Interstate NHS in Poor condition 10.6%14.5%
Percentage of NHS bridges classified as in Good condition 48.9%44.6%
Percentage of NHS bridges classified as in Poor condition 2.3%3.2%
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FFY 2022-2025 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM | AAMPO
System and Freight Reliability (PM3)
Compliance with PM3 performance-based planning requirements began on May 20, 2019 for MPOs.
MPOs can chose to support the DOT PM3 targets or MPOs can set their own unique targets. Rather
than setting its own system and freight reliability targets, the AAMPO has chosen to support the Iowa
DOT’s system and freight reliability targets as submitted in the most recent baseline period
performance report and shown in Table 3. The MPO supports those targets by reviewing and
programming all Interstate and National Highway System projects within the MPO boundary that are
included in the DOT’s Transportation Improvement Program.
The Iowa DOT conferred with numerous stakeholder groups, including AAMPO, as part of its target
setting process. Variability within the existing travel time dataset was used to forecast future
condition. Projects focused on improving pavement and bridge condition also often help improve
system reliability and freight movement. Additional projects focused specifically on improving these
areas of system performance are developed in alignment with the target-setting process for related
performance measures, and the freight improvement strategies and freight investment plan included
in the State Freight Plan. This plan includes a detailed analysis and prioritization of freight bottlenecks,
which are locations that should be considered for further study and possibly for future improvements.
The process also involved extensive input from State, MPO, RPA, and industry representatives. State
projects identified in the freight investment plan and programmed in the STIP were highly ranked
freight bottlenecks.
Table 3: System and Freight Reliability (PM3) Targets (adopted by AAMPO on 03/23/21)
Performance Measure 2017
Baseline
4 Year
Targets
Percent of the person-miles traveled on the Interstate that are
reliable
100%98.5%
Percent of the person-miles traveled on the non-Interstate NHS that
are reliable
N/A 95.0%
Truck Travel Time Reliability (TTTR) Index 1.12 1.21
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Transit Asset Management
Compliance with transit asset management performance-based planning requirements began on
October 1, 2018. MPOs can choose to support the targets set by their local urban transit provider or
set their own unique targets. The AAMPO has chosen to support the targets set by the region’s transit
provider, CyRide as shown in Table 4. CyRide publishes these targets in their own TAM plan which they
review and amend, if needed, each fall by October 1st. The infrastructure performance measure
element which FTA requires is limited to rail fixed guideway assets of which there is not any rail
passenger service with Ames.
Table 4: Transit Asset Management Targets (adopted by AAMPO on 03/23/21)
TAM Performance
Measure Class
2020
Target
2020
Year-End
Results
2021 Performance
Target
2022 2023 2024 2025
Revenue Vehicles
Articulated Buses
0%0%0% of fleet exceeds
CyRide's ULB of 15 yrs.
0%0%0%0%
Revenue Vehicles
40'-60' Buses
33%47%42% of fleet exceeds
CyRide's ULB of 15 yrs.
30%33%26%42%
Revenue Vehicles
Cutaways
67%56%22% of fleet exceeds FTA
ULB of 8 yrs.
0%0%0%0%
Revenue Vehicles
Minivans
0%0%0% of fleet exceeds FTA
ULB of 8 yrs.
0%0%0%0%
Equipment
Shop Trucks
0%29%0% of fleet exceeds
CyRide’s ULB of 10 yrs.
0%0%0%0%
Facilities
Admin./Maint.Facility
0%0%0% of facilities rated under
3.0 on TERM scale
0%0%0%0%
Facilities Ames
Intermodal Facility
0%0%0% of facilities rated under
3.0 on TERM scale
0%0%0%0%
Public transit capital projects included in the STIP align with the transit asset management (TAM)
planning and target setting processes undertaken by the Iowa DOT, transit agencies, and MPOs. The
Iowa DOT establishes a group TAM plan and group targets for all small urban and rural providers while
large urban providers (i.e. CyRide) establish their own TAM plans and targets. Investments are made in
alignment with TAM plans with the intent of keeping the state’s public transit vehicles and facilities in a
state of good repair and meeting transit asset management targets. The Iowa DOT allocates funding
for transit rolling stock in accordance with the Public Transit Management System process. In addition,
the Iowa DOT awards public transit infrastructure grants in accordance with the project priorities
established in Iowa Code chapter 924. Additional state and federal funding sources that can be used by
transit agencies for vehicle and facility improvements are outlined in the funding chapter of the Transit
Manager’s Handbook. Individual transit agencies determine the use of these sources for capital and
operating expenses based on their local needs.
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Transit Safety
Compliance with transit safety performance-based planning requirements begins on July 20, 2021.
MPOs can choose to support the targets set by their local urban transit provider or set their own
unique targets. AAMPO has chosen to support the targets set by the region’s transit provider, CyRide
as shown in Table 5. CyRide publishes these targets in their Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan
(PTASP), which will be certified each year.
Table 5: Transit Safety Targets (adopted by AAMPO on 03/23/21)
Mode of Transit
Service
Fatalities
(Total)
Fatalities
(per 100
thousand
VRM)
Injuries
(Total)
Injuries
(per 100
thousand
VRM)
Safety
Events
(Total)
Safety Events
(per 100
thousand
VRM)
System
Reliability
(VRM/Failures)
Fixed Route Bus 0 0 3 0.22 5 0.37 33,000
Paratransit 0 0 1 2.6 1 2.6 38,450
Public transit projects included in the STIP align with the transit safety planning and target setting
processes undertaken by the transit agencies and MPOs. While the Iowa DOT aided with the
development of the initial Public Transportation Agency Safety Plans (PTASPs), each large urban transit
provider is responsible for implementing its PTASP, which includes transit safety targets. Investments
are made in alignment with PTASPs with the intent of keeping the state’s public transit operations,
vehicles, and facilities safe and meeting transit safety targets. State and federal funding sources that
can be used by transit agencies for operations, vehicles, and facility improvements are outlined in the
funding chapter of the Transit Manager’s Handbook. Individual transit agencies determine the use of
these sources for capital and operating expenses based on their local needs.
In AAMPO’s latest Metropolitan Transportation Plan, Forward 45, a performance-based transportation
planning approach was utilized by tying in the regional vision of the transportation system with the
aforementioned federally-required metrics and federally-required planning processes. The six primary
region-specific goals, identified from public input, were accessibility, safety, substantiality, efficiency &
reliability, placemaking, and preservation. The Forward 45 Report provides a detailed explanation of
the regional goals and objectives as well as the performance-based planning approach utilized in the
identification, selection, and prioritization of projects.
The vision statement stated in Forward 45 is:
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Air Quality
The Clean Air Act requires the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to set limits on
how much of a particular pollutant can be in the air anywhere in the United States. National Ambient
Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) are the pollutant limits set by the Environmental Protection Agency;
they define the allowable concentration of pollution in the air for six different pollutants: Carbon
Monoxide, Lead, Nitrogen Dioxide, Particulate Matter, Ozone, and Sulfur Dioxide.
The Clean Air Act specifies how areas within the country are designated as either “attainment” or
“non-attainment” of an air quality standard and provides the EPA the authority to define the
boundaries of nonattainment areas. For areas designated as non-attainment for one or more National
Ambient Air Quality Standards, the Clean Air Act defines a specific timetable to attain the standard and
requires that non-attainment areas demonstrate reasonable and steady progress in reducing air
pollution emissions until such time that an area can demonstrate attainment.
No part of the Ames Area is within nonattainment; therefore, it is not subject to air quality conformity
requirements. However, the Ames Area MPO will perform activities to monitor and promote air
quality issues in the region. The State of Iowa provides grant opportunities through the Iowa Clean Air
Attainment Program (ICAAP) to promote clean air in Iowa’s transportation system.
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Project Selection
Overview
This Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) serves as a list of federal-aid eligible and Swap surface
transportation improvements within the Ames region from the federal fiscal years 2022 to 2025.
Projects in the Ames Area MPO’s TIP must be consistent with the latest regional Metropolitan
Transportation Plan, Forward 45. The final AAMPO TIP, approved by the AAMPO Transportation Policy
Committee, will be consolidated into the State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) along with
the programs from the other planning agencies in the State of Iowa.
Projected identified in this TIP utilize, or are based upon, several different sources of federal funding.
While AAMPO is responsible for the regional selection of projects eligible for STBG and TAP funding,
which the undermentioned selection procedure discussions will focus on, there are several other
Federal and State funding programs which are listed and described in Appendix C.
Regional Applications
AAMPO solicits regional applications for two primary transportation funding programs: Surface
Transportation Block Grant (STBG) and Iowa’s Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP). For projects
to be eligible for these applications, they must conform with the latest regional Metropolitan
Transportation Plan, Forward 45. Both these applications are made available on the AAMPO website at
www.aampo.org. A notification email is also sent out to contacts from all the AAMPO regional member
agencies that are eligible to apply. These applications are due annually on March 31st. The application
templates for both STBG and TAP can be found in Appendix D.
STBG Selection Criteria
STBG funds are typically awarded to projects which improve capacity through construction,
reconstruction, and rehabilitation of the highway network. However, Transit capital projects are also
eligible for STBG funds. Projects must be listed in, or conform with, the latest Metropolitan
Transportation Plan. All projects are evaluated and prioritized within the Metropolitan Transportation
Plan using a performance-based planning process (see page 11). This evaluation is heavily weighed
when determining whether to award STBG funding to a project. Staff will make an initial review of all
received STBG applications. Next, the Transportation Technical Committee (TTC) collectively reviews
and recommends to the Transportation Policy Committee which projects should be selected.
TAP Selection Criteria
Regional TAP funds are generally awarded to smaller-scale projects such as pedestrian and bicycle
facilities, recreational trails, and safe routes to school projects. Like the STBG funding selection process,
TAP projects must conform to the latest Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) and the performance-
based evaluation results in the MTP are weighed heavily in the TAP selection process. TAP projects
should provide connectivity with existing facilities, provide a reasonable cost in relation to public
benefit, and enhance the current transportation system. Like the STBG funding selection process, staff
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makes an initial review of the received applications. Next, the Transportation Technical Committee
(TTC) reviews and recommends to the Transportation Policy Committee which projects should be
selected.
Transit Projects
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FFY 2021 Project Status Report
It is required to provide a status report for all federal-aid and Swap funded highway projects included
in the first fiscal year or the previous TIP. This status report indicates whether the project was
authorized/let, is being rolled over to the current TIP, or if the project is being removed from
programming. This status report is useful for monitoring the progress being made in implementing the
MPO’s transportation program. See Table 6 for the project status report for FFY 2021.
Table 6: FFY 2021 Project Status Summary
Funding
Source
TPMS
ID
Project Description Federal-Aid Total Cost Local
Sponsor
Status
STBG 21005 CyRide: Vehicle
Replacement $225,000 $850,000 CyRide Authorized
SWAP-STBG 36919 Cherry Ave (E Lincoln Way
– SE 5th St)$1,890,000 $2,400,000 City of
Ames
Roll-Over to
FFY 2022
SWAP-STBG 36927 E 13th St (Duff –
Meadowlane Ave)$1,600,000 $2,500,000 City of
Ames
Letting on
5/18/21
TAP 38306 Vet Med Trail (S Grand
Ave – S 16th St)$159,000 $500,000 City of
Ames
Letting on
9/21/21
TAP 21260 Skunk River Trail (SE 16th
St – E Lincoln Way)$240,000 $835,000 City of
Ames Remove
TAP 14983 Skunk River Trail (SE 16th
St – E Lincoln Way)$160,000 $521,000 City of
Ames
Roll-Over to
FFY 2022
SWAP-CMAQ 45239 1st Phase of Ames Traffic
Signal Master Plan $1,176,548 $1,470,685 City of
Ames
Roll-Over to
FFY 2022
CMAQ 45554 CyRide: Transit Operations
for Various Routes $432,363 $540,456 CyRide Authorized
PL 34214 Trans Planning $101,897 $126,5897 AAMPO Authorized
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Financial Analysis
Overview
Projects programmed in the current TIP must demonstrate fiscal constraint. This section focuses on
demonstrating that the program is fiscally constrained as well as documents nonfederal-aid revenues
and expected operations and maintenance costs on the federal-aid system. All project costs are
adjusted into year of expenditure dollars using an assumed annual inflation rate of 4 percent. This
same inflation rate is used to project revenues and operations and maintenance costs. PL funds are
shown to remain constant through the 4-year period and are based on the first fiscal year’s target.
The Iowa DOT provides AAMPO with STBG/STBG-Swap, TAP, and STBG/TAP Flex funding targets for
each of the four years in this program. The Iowa DOT also provides information from their five-year
program including estimated statewide revenues/allocations and funds available for right-of-way and
construction. Lastly, Iowa DOT provides forecasted non-federal-aid revenues as well as operations and
maintenance data for the federal-aid system. See the following section for more detail on the Iowa
DOT’s programming process regarding expenditures and funding.
The Ames City Council has programmed city sponsored projects in the City of Ames 2021-2026 Capital
Improvements Plan (CIP) for the local funding allocation. These funds are generated from the City of
Ames annual Road Use Tax Fund (RUTF) distribution, Local Option Sales Tax, and General Obligation
(GO) bonds.
The transit program does not have targets; therefore, the requests involve significant costs in the
anticipation of maximizing the amounts received either through formula or discretionary funding.
Iowa DOT O&M Estimated Expenditures and Funding
Each year prior to development of the Iowa DOT’s Five-Year Program and the Statewide Transportation
Improvement Program both state and federal revenue forecasts are completed to estimate the
amount of funding available for programming. These forecasts are a critical component in the
development of the Five-Year Program and as such are reviewed with the Iowa Transportation
Commission. The primary sources of state funding to the DOT are the Primary Road Fund and TIME-21
Fund. These state funds are used for the operation, maintenance, and construction of the Primary
Road System. The amount of funding available for operations and maintenance is determined by
legislative appropriations. Additional funding is set aside for statewide activities including engineering
costs. The remaining funding is available for right of way and construction activities associated with the
highway program.
Along with state funds, the highway program utilizes a portion of the federal funds that are allocated
to the state. A federal funding forecast is prepared each year based on the latest apportionment
information available. This forecast includes the various federal programs and identifies which funds
are allocated to the Iowa DOT for programming and which funds are directed to locals through the
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MPO/RPA planning process, bridge programs, and other various grant programs. Implementation of a
federal aid swap will increase the amount of federal funds that are utilized by the Iowa DOT.
Fiscal Tables
Table 7 & Table 8: These tables summarize the total project costs and associated federal-aid amounts
by funding program. Table 7 focuses on federal-aid programs while Table 8 focuses on SWAP
programs.
Table 9 & Table 10: These tables demonstrate fiscal constraint for their respective funding programs.
Table 9 summarizes the STBG/STBG-Swap program while Table 10 summarizes the STBG-TAP program.
This incorporates the programmed project costs from Tables 7 and 8 as well as the funding targets
provided by the Iowa DOT.
Table 11 & Table 12: These tables summarize projections based upon information provided in the 2019
City Street Finance Report by the Iowa DOT. This includes forecasted operations and maintenance data
on the federal-aid system (Table 11) and forecasted non-federal-aid revenues (Table 12). The base year
for the data was 2020. The shown projections utilize the assumed annual inflation rate of 4 percent.
Table 13: Table 13 shows the Iowa DOT’s Five-Year Program funding amounts including statewide
revenues, allocations, and funds available for right-of-way and construction.
Table 7: Summary of Costs and Federal-Aid
2022 2023 2024 2025
PROGRAM Total Cost Federal Aid Total Cost Federal Aid Total Cost Federal Aid Total Cost Federal Aid
PL $126,575 $101,260 $126,575 $101,260 $126,575 $101,260 $126,575 $101,260
STBG $850,000 $225,000 $850,000 $225,000 $1,350,000 $625,000 $850,000 $225,000
TAP $1,443,000 $560,000 $0 $0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
NHPP $ 0 $ 0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $ 0 $ 0
CMAQ $ 0 $ 0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $ 0 $ 0
STBG-HBP $ 0 $ 0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $ 0 $ 0
Table 8: Summary of Costs and SWAP-Aid
2022 2023 2024 2025
PROGRAM Total Cost SWAP Total Cost SWAP Total Cost SWAP Total Cost SWAP
CMAQ-SWAP $3,220,685 $2,576,548 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
STBG-SWAP $8,100,000 $4,390,000 $2,400,000 $1,680,000 $ 0 $ 0 $3,880,000 $2,814,000
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Table 9: STBG/STBG-Swap Fiscal Constraint
2022 2023 2024 2025
UNOBLIGATED BALANCE (CARRYOVER)$3,305,943 $387,575 $206,575 $1,311,575
STBG/SWAP TARGET $1,696,632 $1,664,000 $1,664,000 $1,664,000
STBG-TAP-FLEX TARGET $0 $66,000 $66,000 $66,000
SUBTOTAL $5,002,575 $2,117,575 $1,936,575 $3,041,575
PROGRAM FUNDS $4,615,000 $1,911,000 $625,000 $3,039,000
BALANCE $387,575 $206,575 $1,311,575 $2,575
Table 10: TAP Fiscal Constraint
2022 2023 2024 2025
UNOBLIGATED BALANCE (CARRYOVER)$425,637 $19,513 $105,513 $191,513
TAP TARGET $86,414 $86,000 $86,000 $86,000
STBG-TAP-FLEX TARGET $67,462 $0 $0 $0
SUBTOTAL $579,513 $105,513 $191,513 $277,513
PROGRAM FUNDS $560,000 $0 $0 $0
BALANCE $19,513 $105,513 $191,513 $227,513
Table 11: Forecasted Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Costs on the Federal-Aid System
SOURCE: 2019 CITY STREET FINANCE REPORT 2022 2023 2024 2025
CITY OF AMES TOTAL OPERATIONS $949,048 $982,942 $1,016,837 $1,050,731
CITY OF AMES TOTAL MAINTENANCE $1,752,781 $1,815,380 $1,877,980 $1,940,579
CITY OF GILBERT TOTAL OPERATIONS $5,126 $5,309 $5,492 $5,675
CITY OF GILBERT TOTAL MAINTENANCE $6,632 $6,868 $7,105 $7,342
IOWA DOT TOTAL OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE $721,450 $743,461 $767,713 $791,761
TOTAL O&M $3,435,036 $3,553,961 $3,675,127 $3,796,089
Table 12: Forecasted Non-Federal-Aid Revenue
SOURCE: 2019 CITY STREET FINANCE REPORT 2022 2023 2024 2025
CITY OF AMES TOTAL RUTF RECEIPTS $8,531,528 $8,836,226 $9,140,923 $9,445,621
CITY OF AMES TOTAL OTHER ROAD MONIES RECEIPTS $6,254,512 $6,477,888 $6,701,263 $6,924,639
CITY OF AMES TOTAL RECEIPTS SERVICE DEBT $17,205,214 $17,819,686 $18,434,158 $19,048,630
CITY OF GILBERT TOTAL RUTF RECEIPTS $156,552 $162,144 $167,735 $173,326
CITY OF GILBERT TOTAL OTHER ROAD MONIES RECEIPTS $25,589 $26,503 $27,416 $28,330
CITY OF GILBERT TOTAL RECEIPTS SERVICE DEBT $0 $0 $0 $0
TOTAL NON-FEDERAL-AID ROAD FUND RECEIPTS $32,173,396 $33,322,445 $34,471,495 $35,620,545
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Table 13: Iowa DOT Five-Year Program Funding
($ MILLIONS)
REVENUES 2022 2023 2024 2025
PRIMARY ROAD FUND $724.00 $726.30 $732.50 $737.00
TIME-21 $135.00 $135.00 $135.00 $135.00
MISCELLANEOUS $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00
FEDERAL AID $372.70 $372.70 $372.70 $372.70
TOTAL $1,256.70 $1,259.00 $1,265.20 $1,269.70
STATEWIDE ALLOCATIONS 2022 2023 2024 2025
OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE $354.00 $364.80 $376.70 $388.50
CONSULTANT SERVICES $85.00 $85.00 $85.00 $85.00
CONTRACT MAINTENANCE $35.90 $36.40 $36.90 $37.40
RAILROAD CROSSING PROTECTION $5.00 $5.00 $5.00 $5.00
MISCELLANEOUS PROGRAMS $45.60 $45.80 $46.10 $46.30
TOTAL $525.50 $537.00 $549.70 $562.20
FUNDS AVAILABLE FOR ROW/CONSTRUCTION 2022 2023 2024 2025
TOTAL $731.20 $722.00 $715.50 $707.50
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Highway Program (FFY 2022 – 2025)
Overview
The following pages contains a complete list of projects utilizing FHWA-based funds programmed for FFY 2022 through FFY 2025.
These projects are shown on a map in Figure 2.
Figure 2: Project Locations (by Project ID)
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Programmed Highway Projects
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Transit Program (FFY 2022-2025)
Overview
The following pages contains a complete list of projects utilizing FTA-based funds programmed for FFY 2022 through FFY 2025. The
justification for transit projects shown in FFY 2022 is also provided.
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Programmed Transit Projects
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FFY 2022 Transit Project Justifications
General Operations (5307/STA)
This funding supports the day-to-day transit operations of the Ames Transit Authority from Ames’
urbanized area formula apportionment, Small Transit Intensive Cities (STIC), and State Transit
Assistance (STA) funding. Please note that CARES, CRRSSA and ARPA which total approximately $14
million in 5307 funding, were not required to be placed into the TIP if utilized towards CyRide’s
operating expenses.
Infotainment LED signage (5310)
In the fall 2019, CyRide integrated automated vehicle annunciator (AVA) system synced with voice
annunciators (audible announcements only) to help keep all passengers, disability or not, better
informed of where the bus is located along the bus route(s). This system was in response to a request
from Iowa State University’s Alliance for Disability Awareness group which communicated their desire
to have more bus stops announced throughout the Ames’ community. Bus drivers must comply with
the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) laws and manually announce major transit locations along
transit routes along with any stops the public request. CyRide then added visual LED signage within
each bus to deploy visual signage within each bus mirroring the LED audible stop announcements. The
bigger infotainment LED signage allows more information to be displayed for this visual signage on
CyRide’s articulated buses while also allowing advertising on these vehicles. This project will be
deployed in FY2022 and is over and beyond ADA requirements.
Annunciator Annual Service Fees (5310)
CyRide plans to utilize portions of its elderly & disabled funding towards its annual service fees for the
automatic annunciator system to ensure compliance with its ADA announcement requirements. This is
a non-traditional project but will allow compliance with the ADA law and improve awareness of where
the bus is within the community for passenger’s knowledge.
Light Duty Bus Replacement (5310)
One light duty 176” wheelbase bus leased to HIRTA for CyRide’s Dial-A-Ride service has exceeded FTA
guidelines for useful life. Bus number of this unit is #07654. This unit will be replaced with light duty
176” wheelbase low-floor bus, equipped with cameras. This replacement vehicle will be ADA
accessible.
Conversion Van Replacement (5310)
One minivan leased to HIRTA for CyRide’s Dial-A-Ride service has exceeded FTA guidelines for useful
life. Bus number of this unit is #07655 and is an MV1 which is no longer manufactured. CyRide will
purchase a conversion van to replace this smaller minivan, equipped with cameras. This replacement
vehicle will be ADA accessible.
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Heavy Duty Forty-Foot Bus Replacement (5339)
Fourteen large forty-foot buses have exceeded FTA guidelines for useful life. Buses are identified as:
09075, 00954, 00953, 09072, 09074, 09070, 09071, 09077, 09073, 09076, 00188, 00186, 00189, 00187.
These units, if ranked high enough within the state’s PTMS process, will be replaced with 40’ heavy-
duty low-floor buses. These replacement vehicles will all be ADA accessible.
Currently, CyRide has six articulated buses within its bus fleet, with two more currently being procured,
with a goal to attain a total of ten to operate on its #23 Orange route. Two additional articulated buses
will complete the goal of having ten articulated buses within CyRide’s fleet for this bus route.
Specifically, the #23 Orange route transit route carries the highest number of passengers of any route
in the State of Iowa at nearly 1.8 million passengers. CyRide will add Surface Transportation Block
Grant (STBG) funding to an already approved contract for a 40-foot bus (federally funded with either
CMAQ or 5339) awarded through the Iowa DOT or through a direct national discretionary federal
award for an articulated (60-foot) bus expansion within the fleet. Forty-foot buses specifically
identified to be replaced and upgraded to an articulated bus through a federal award are: 00951 and
00502. The Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization has approved funding at $225,000 for
FY2022 for this upgrade.
Six large diesel forty-foot diesel buses have exceeded FTA guidelines for useful life and will be replaced
with battery electric buses. Three will be requested with formula funding and the other three with
federal discretionary funding. Bus numbers are: 00950, 00952, 00949, 00504, 00501, and 00503. If
funded, this will further CyRide’s efforts throughout the Ames community making it even more
sustainable. All battery electric buses will be ADA accessible.
To support additional battery electric bus purchases, CyRide plans on installing additional charging
equipment and dispensers to adequately charge these vehicles throughout the facility.
To support additional battery electric bus purchases within the fleet, CyRide plans on rehabilitating the
facility with additional electrical wiring between the transformer and the charging equipment as
necessary to charge these new vehicles.
CyRide is requesting phase three of its heating, ventilation and air conditioning projects from the Iowa
DOT under its public transit infrastructure grant (PTIG) program specifically for:
Tire Shop HVAC Replacement
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Bus Vehicle Exhaust Improvements
Paint Booth & Body Shop HVAC Replacement.
These updates will provide substantial benefits to employees by providing better heating/cooling as
well as ventilation and fresh air throughout the maintenance facility as recommended through a
“Diesel Particulate Exposures at CyRide Bus Garage” study conducted in 2006. At that time, the study
noted that the ventilation rates needed to be increase throughout the facility to decrease diesel
particulate exposures and concentrations by a factor of four. CyRide plans to continue additional HVAC
work into FY2023 for a final improvement project under phase three.
Maintenance Facility Expansion (5339)
CyRide will be requesting earmark funding to expand its current bus storage facility to house up to
fourteen buses currently parked outside under cover. Parking buses outside the facility is contrary to
CyRide’s lease with Iowa State University which states that all vehicles must be parked inside.
Construction of additional bus storage is needed at this time to keep its large vehicles in a state of good
repair throughout the year and extend their useful life (FTA defines this at 12 years) to the maximum
extent possible (20+ years) when CyRide typically attains funding for replacement.
West Ames Changes (ICAAP/5307)
This project supports additional service frequency for the #1 Red, #7 Purple and #11 Cherry (rebranded
1A) bus routes as well as a new bus route, #12 Lilac, located in West Ames. These changes were
implemented in the fall 2018 through CyRide 2.0 service changes after a year-long transit service study.
This is the third year request of funding for these additional services for West Ames funded through
Iowa’s Clean Air Attainment Program (ICAAP) at 50 percent.
#11 Cherry Night Service (ICAAP/5307)
This project supports additional service frequency for the #11 Cherry Night service. This service was
implemented in the fall 2019 in adding additional service changes to the CyRide 2.0 redesigned service.
This is the second year request of funding for this additional service for #11 Cherry Night service
funded through Iowa’s Clean Air Attainment Program (ICAAP) at 50 percent. ICAAP can potentially
fund up to three years of funding for new transit projects.
#12 Lilac Mid-day Service (ICAAP/5307)
This project supports additional service frequency for the #12 Lilac Midday service. This service was
implemented in the fall 2019 in adding additional service changes to the CyRide 2.0 redesigned service.
This is the second-year request of funding for these additional service for #12 Lilac Midday service
funded through Iowa’s Clean Air Attainment Program (ICAAP) at 50 percent. ICAAP can potentially
fund up to three years of funding for new transit projects.
#6 Brown Night Service (ICAAP/5307)
This project supports additional service frequency for the #6 Brown Night service after 8:00 p.m.
between North Grand Mall and ISU Towers Residential Association. This service was implemented in
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the fall 2019 in adding additional service changes to the CyRide 2.0 redesigned service. This is the
second-year request of funding for these additional service for #6 Brown Night service funded through
Iowa’s Clean Air Attainment Program (ICAAP) at 50 percent. ICAAP can potentially fund up to three
years of funding for new transit projects.
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Changing an Approved TIP
Often after development and subsequent adoption of the TIP, changes may need to be made to the list
of programmed projects. Examples of changes might be adding or deleing projects., moving a project
between years in the TIP, adjusting project cost, or changing the vehicle numbers of transit vehicles.
A major requirement of a project receiving Federal transportation funds is for the project to be
included in the TIP and Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). Once a project has
received Federal Authorization for construction it does not need to be included in the TIP. This is one of
two major reasons for adding or deleting a project from the TIP. The other major reason for adding a
project is the awarding of a grant for a project, which can happen throughout the year. Projects
programmed through the STBG-SWAP program will be included in the TIP as informational items and
modifications to these projects will be pursued using the following revision processes as outlined.
Changes to the TIP are classified as either amendments or administrative modifications and are
subject to different AAMPO Transportation Policy Committee and public review procedures.
Amendments
Amendments are major changes that may involve the following:
Project Cost: Projects in which the recalculated project costs increase Federal aid by more than
30 percent or increase the Federal aid by more than $2 million from the original amount.
Schedule Changes: Projects added or deleted from the TIP.
Funding Source: Projects receiving additional Federal funding sources.
Scope Changes: Changing the project termini, project alignment, the amount of through traffic
lanes, type of work from an overlay to reconstruction, or a change to include widening of the
roadway.
Amendments are presented to the Transportation Policy Committee and a public comment period is
opened, which continues until the next policy committee meeting. The Transportation Policy
Committee meets on an as needed basis, providing a 3–4-week public comment period for
amendments. Public comments are shared with the Transportation Policy Committee and action is
taken on the amendment.
Administrative Modifications
Administrative modifications are minor changes that may involve the following:
Project Cost: Projects in which the recalculated project costs do not increase Federal aid by
more than 30 percent or does not increase the Federal aid by more than $2 million from the
original amount.
Schedule Changes: Changes in schedule for projects included in the first four years of the TIP.
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Funding Source: Changing funding from one source to another.
Scope Changes: Any changes to the scope require an amendment and cannot be approved
through an administrative modification.
Administrative modifications are processed internally and are shared with the Transportation Policy
Committee, the public, and AAMPO stakeholders as information items.
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Appendix A – Resolution of Adoption
<INSERT RESOLUTION OF ADOPTION HERE>
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Appendix B – Self-Certification of Planning Activities
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Appendix C – List of Federal and State Funding Programs
Federal Funding Sources
Projects identified in TIPs utilize, or are based upon, several different sources of federal funding. The
primary sources of FHWA funding to Iowa, which are in parted used to fund local efforts, include:
Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program (CMAQ). CMAQ provides flexible
funding for transportation projects and programs tasked with helping to meet the requirements
of the Clean Air Act. These projects can include those that reduce congestion and improve air
quality.
Demonstration funding (DEMO). Demonstration funding is a combination of different
programs and sources. The FHWA administers discretionary programs through various offices
representing special funding categories. An appropriation bill provides money to a discretionary
program, through special congressionally directed appropriations or through legislative acts,
such as the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA).
Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP). This is a core federal-aid program that funds
projects with the goal of achieving a significant reduction in traffic fatalities and serious injuries
on public roads. A portion of this funding is targeted for use on local high-risk rural roads and
railway-highway crossings.
Metropolitan Planning Program (PL). FHWA provides funding for this program to the State of
Iowa based on urbanized area population. The funds are dedicated to support transportation
planning efforts in urbanized areas with a population of 50,000 or greater. For programming
purposes MPOs should program only the new PL target provided by the Systems Planning
Bureau. Any carryover funds identified by Systems Planning need not be added to, or
subtracted from, the PL target.
National Highway Performance Program (NHPP). NHPP funds are available to be used on
projects that improve the condition and performance of the National Highway System (NHS),
including some state and U.S. highways and interstates.
State Planning and Research (SPR). SPR funds are available to fund statewide planning and
research activities. A portion of SPR funds are provided to RPAs to support transportation
planning efforts.
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Surface Transportation Block Grant Program (STBG). This program is designed to address
specific issues identified by Congress and provides flexible funding for projects to preserve or
improve the condition/performance of transportation facilities, including any federal-aid
highway or public road bridge. STBG funding may be utilized on:
o Roadway projects on federal-aid routes
o Bridge projects on any public road
o Transit capital improvements
o TAP eligible activities
o Planning activities
Iowa targets STBG funding to each of its 27 MPOs and RPAs on an annual basis for
programming based on regional priorities. Iowa has implemented a Swap program that allows
MPOs and RPAs, at their discretion, to swap targeted federal STBG funding for state Primary
Road Fund dollars.
Iowa also targets a portion of its STBG funding directly to counties for use on county bridge
projects. Iowa’s Swap program swaps federal STBG funding for state Primary Road Fund dollars.
These funds can be used on either on-system or off-system bridges however off-system bridge
investments must be continued to maintain the ability to transfer the federal STBG set-aside for
off system bridges.
Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program (TAP). This program is a setaside from the
STBG program. The TAP program provides funding to expand travel choices and improve the
transportation experience. Transportation Alternatives Program projects improve the cultural,
historic, aesthetic, and environmental aspects of transportation infrastructure. Projects can
include creation of bicycle and pedestrian facilities, and the restoration of historic
transportation facilities, among others. It is important to note that some types of projects
eligible under the SAFETEA-LU program Transportation Enhancements are no longer eligible, or
have modified eligibility, under the TAP. All projects programmed with TAP funds should be
verified to ensure compatibility with TAP eligibility.
Federal Lands Access Program (FLAP) and Tribal Transportation Program (TTP). The FLAP
Program provides funding for projects that improve access within, and to, federal lands. The
FLAP funding will be distributed through a grant process where a group of FHWA, Iowa DOT,
and local government representatives will solicit, rank, and select projects to receive funding.
The TTP provides safe and adequate transportation and public road access to and within Indian
reservations and Indian lands. Funds are distributed based on a statutory formula based on
tribal population, road mileage, and average tribal shares of the former Tribal Transportation
Allocation Methodology.
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National Highway Freight Program (NHFP). NHFP funds are distributed to states via a formula
process and are targeted towards transportation projects that benefit freight movements. Ten
percent of NHFP funds will be targeted towards non-DOT sponsored projects.
Iowa DOT-Administered Grant Program Funding Sources
In addition to the federal funding sources listed above, the Iowa DOT administers several grant
programs that are funded, in part, with the federal sources identified above. Projects awarded grant
funding must be documented in the region’s TIP. These grant awards are distributed through an
application process. State administered grant programs include:
City Bridge Program. A portion of STBG funding dedicated to local bridge projects is set aside
for the funding of bridge projects within cities. STBG funding is swapped for state Primary Road
Fund dollars. Eligible projects need to be classified as structurally deficient or functionally
obsolete. Projects are rated and prioritized by the Local Systems Bureau with awards based
upon criteria identified in the application process. Projects awarded grant funding are subject
to a federal-aid obligation limitation of $1 million.
Highway Safety Improvement Program – Secondary (HSIP-Secondary). This program is funded
using a portion of Iowa’s Highway Safety Improvement Program apportionment and funds
safety projects on rural roadways. Federal HSIP funding targeted towards these local projects is
swapped for Primary Road Fund dollars.
Iowa Clean Air Attainment Program (ICAAP). The ICAAP funds projects that are intended to
maximize emission reductions through traffic flow improvements, reduced vehicle-miles of
travel, and reduced single-occupancy vehicle trips. This program utilizes $4 million of Iowa’s
CMAQ apportionment. Funding targeted towards these local projects is eligible to be swapped
for Primary Road Fund dollars should be project be for road or bridge construction.
Recreational Trails Program. This program provides federal funding for both motorized and
nonmotorized trail projects and is funded through a takedown from Iowa’s TAP funding. The
decision to participate in this program is made annually by the Iowa Transportation
Commission.
Iowa’s Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP). This program targets STBG funding to
MPOs and RPAs to award to locally sponsored projects that expand travel choices and improve
the motorized and non-motorized transportation experience.
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Federal and State Transit Funding Programs
Like the FHWA programs listed above, the transit funding authorized by the FAST-Act is managed in
several ways. The largest amount is distributed, by formula, to states and large metropolitan areas.
Other program funds are discretionary, and some are earmarked for specific projects. Program funds
include:
Metropolitan Transportation Planning program (Section 5303 and 5305). FTA provides funding
for this program to the state based on its urbanized area populations. The funds are dedicated
to support transportation planning projects in urbanized areas with more than 50,000 persons.
Statewide Transportation Planning program (Section 5304 and 5305). These funds come to
the state based on population and are used to support transportation planning projects in
nonurbanized areas. They are combined with the Section 5311 funds and allocated among
Iowa’s RPAs.
Urbanized Area Formula Grants program (Section 5307). FTA provides transit operating,
planning and capital assistance funds directly to local recipients in urbanized areas with
populations between 50,000 and 200,000. The funding is suballocated from the State for transit
agencies serving a population of this size. Assistance amounts are based on population and
density figures and transit performance factors for larger areas. Local recipients must apply
directly to the FTA.
Bus and Bus Facilities Program (Section 5339). This formula program provides federal
assistance for major capital needs, such as fleet replacement and construction of transit
facilities. All transit systems in the state are eligible for this program.
Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities Program (Section 5310).
Funding is provided through this program to increase mobility for the elderly and persons with
disabilities. Part of the funding is administered along with the nonurbanized funding with the
remaining funds allocated among urbanized transit systems in areas with a population of less
than 200,000. Urbanized areas with more than 200,000 in population receive a direct
allocation.
Nonurbanized Area Formula Assistance Program (Section 5311). This program provides capital
and operating assistance for rural and small urban transit systems serving under 50,000 in
population. Fifteen percent of these funds are allocated to intercity bus projects. A portion of
the funding is also allocated to support rural transit planning. The remaining funds are
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combined with the rural portion (30 percent) of Section 5310 funds and allocated among
regional and small urban transit systems based on their relative performance in the prior year.
Rural Transit Assistance Program (RTAP) (Section 5311(b)(3)). This funding is used for
statewide training events and to support transit funding fellowships for regional and small
urban transit staff or planners.
TAP Flexible funds. Certain Title 23 funds may be used for transit purposes. Transit capital
assistance is an eligible use of STBG funds. Transit capital and startup operating assistance is an
eligible use of ICAAP funds. When ICAAP and STBG funds are programmed for transit projects,
they are transferred to the FTA. The ICAAP funds are applied for and administered by the Iowa
DOT’s Public Transit Bureau. STBG funds for small urban and regional transit systems are also
administered the Public Transit Bureau.
State Transit Assistance (STA). All public transit systems are eligible for State funding. These
funds can be used by the public transit system for operating, capital, or planning expenses
related to the provision of open-to-the-public passenger transportation. The majority of the
funds received in a fiscal year are distributed to individual transit systems on the basis of a
formula using performance statistics from the most recent available year.
o STA Special Projects. Each year up to $300,000 of the total STA funds are set aside to
fund “special projects.” These can include grants to individual systems to support transit
services that are developed in conjunction with human services agencies. Grants can
also be awarded to statewide projects that improve public transit in Iowa through such
means as technical training for transit system or planning agency personnel, statewide
marketing campaigns, etc. This funding is also used to mirror the RTAP to support
individual transit training fellowships for large urban transit staff or planners.
STA Coordination Special Projects. Funds provide assistance with startup of new
services that have been identified as needs by health, employment, or human
services agencies participating in the passenger transportation planning process.
Public Transit Infrastructure Grant Fund. This is a state program that can fund transit facility
projects that involve new construction, reconstruction, or remodeling. To qualify, projects must
include a vertical component.
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Appendix D – STBG & TAP Application Forms
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The Ames Area MPO utilizes Iowa DOT Form 240004 for its regional TAP applications. This form can be
found at the following link:
Iowa DOT Form 240004
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Appendix E – Public Comments
1. Comment by Hector A. received on June 30, 2021 via email:
“The following is my public comment on the Transportation Improvement Program. Thank you
for giving us this opportunity!
STBG-TAP
#19249 & #14983 Bike Paths: Thank you very much for including these bike trails! I use the bike
trails through ISU and Brookside Park for many of my commutes, so I am thankful that you are
including more bike paths!
SWAP-CMAQ
#48394 & #45394 Traffic Signals: I was thinking, is it truly necessary to have traffic signals?
What if instead of modernizing the traffic signals, we instead implemented some road diets to
shrink these roads to 2 lanes with stop signs at the intersections? With slower speeds and cars
stopping before entering the intersection, there would hopefully be less risk of injury without
the need for an expensive traffic light system.
SWAP-STBG
#36919 Cherry Avenue Extension: I would like to register my strong opposition to this project.
What financial or social benefit will this provide to the city? In the Capital Improvement Plan, it
only notes that it would improve traffic, which, while nice, is not guaranteed to happen
(because of induced demand) and even if it did happen, the City does not necessarily get
revenue from reduced traffic. Furthermore, this would be a road built through a floodplain, a
place where we should not have any development to begin with. Please, please do not build
this road, as it will be a waste of taxpayer dollars.
#35616: I think this would be a good opportunity to narrow this street. Narrow streets with
slower speeds are safer, more pedestrian-friendly, and cheaper to maintain, saving the City
money in the long run.
#35616: I think the City should consider turning this into a two-lane road with slower speeds.
The narrower road will be cheaper to maintain, and the slower speeds will increase safety.
#45233 Lincoln Way: I live near this road, and it would be amazing if the City narrowed and
slowed Lincoln Way into a two-lane street with on-street parking, and use some of the newly
freed-up space for a protected bike lane. The rest of the space could be divided into narrow lots
and sold to make small homes and businesses, making a charming street like Main Street. We
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would save money on maintenance, dramatically increase safety, and get tax revenue from
these new businesses.
#48397 S 16th Pavement Widening: Please do not widen S 16th street. What financial benefit
will it give to the city? Will people spend more money at stores because they have another
lane? I don't think so. Widening streets is expensive and makes them more unsafe, because
drivers feel more confident driving at high speeds. While it would be nice to have less traffic,
widening roads is unlikely to make traffic better because of induced demand. Ames has reached
the point at which further auto-oriented road construction will no longer help with traffic
issues. It is more important to invest in alternatives to the automobile so that we can transport
more people more efficiently.
Thank you very much for putting together this plan!”
•
2020 ANNUAL REPORT
AMES HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION
1
AMES HUMAN
RELATIONS COMMISSION
THE AMES HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION'S (AHRC) PURPOSE IS TO STUDY
THE EXISTENCE OF DISCRIMINATION IN THE COMMUNITY AND WORK TO
MINIMIZE OR ELIMINATE IT, PROMOTE GOODWILL AMONG THE VARIOUS
RACIAL, RELIGIOUS, AND ETHNIC GROUPS IN THE CITY, AND COOPERATE
WITH OTHER ORGANIZATIONS TO DEVELOP PROGRAMS DESIGNED TO
ELIMINATE RACIAL, RELIGIOUS, CULTURAL, AND INTERGROUP TENSIONS.
CITY OF AMES MUNICIPAL CODE, CHAPTER 14:
The purpose of this chapter is to implement the provision of the Iowa
Civil Rights Act and to further provide for the general welfare of
persons in the City of Ames, Iowa, by prohibiting certain discriminatory
practices, and to establish a commission for the investigation of
complaints of discrimination; and, to undertake projects of education to
prevent discrimination; and, to establish procedures for the conciliation
of such complaints; and to enforce the provisions hereof.
At an August 2018 City Council workshop, Council members directed
AHRC to not adjudicate cases and instead refer all cases to the Iowa
Civil Rights Commission (ICRC). At this workshop, Council also
discussed various methods of gathering additional information to inform
an adjusted or revised ordinance and directed AHRC to review data
available (including the Campus Climate Survey, Municipal Equality
Indexes) and other available data; interact with ISU, ACSD, and any
others well-positioned to give input on diversity, inclusion and equity in
the community in order to recommend action items and changes to the
ordinance.
2020 AHRC COMMISSIONERS:
In addition to new members of AHRC in 2020, a new strategic plan was
adopted and approved. Throughout the Coronavirus Pandemic, the
AHRC found new ways to do the meaningful work set forth by the City
Council.
• Jill Crosser, Chair
• Wayne Clinton, Vice Chair
• Leslie Ginder (appointed October 2020)
• Jahmai Fisher
• Madesh Samanu
• Liming Pals (through August 2020)
• Deb Schildroth, City of Ames Staff Liaison
CONTENTS
Ames Human
Relations Commission
(AHRC) Introduction
and Purpose
……………page 1
2020 Activity
Highlights
……………pages 2-3
Ames Civil Rights
Complaints 2020
……………pages 4-8
2020-22 AHRC
Strategic Plan
…………..pages 8-11
2
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHTS:
JANUARY 2020:
• Chair Joel Hochstein and Jill Crosser presented the Humanitarian award to Janet Hopper at the
Dr. Martin Luther King Day Celebration at Ames Middle School.
FEBRUARY 2020:
• Update on planning for 2020 Symposium on Building Inclusive Organizations. Jill Crosser
attended as the representative for the Commission.
• Commission members discussed the frequency of pushing out information on the
Humanitarian and A Home for Everyone awards electronically and via events such as
National Night Out, Symposium on Building Inclusive Organizations, etc.
• Focus group responses reviewed : twenty-two (22) individuals responded to the survey. A
collective scan of the responses was done amongst the Commission.
MARCH 2020:
• Approved “A Home for Everyone” Award Recipients as ACCESS Housing Team and
Cassandra Kramer.
• Themes from Focus Group responses were created. It was decided to put this on hold because
of in person meetings being cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
APRIL 2020:
• Discussed data from the 2019 Focus Group Survey and next steps with COVID-19 restrictions.
• Selected Jill Crosser as Chair of AHRC.
• Selected Wayne Clinton as Vice Chair of AHRC.
• Discussed how AHRC members can be more present and available in the Ames Community
• Discussed ways to incorporate public awareness and visibility into the Strategic Plan and via
social media outlets.
• Announcement of AHRC partnership with planning the 2020 Symposium on Building
Inclusive Organizations. Chair Jill Crosser served as the lead and met biweekly with the team.
MAY 2020:
• Discussed and updated Strategic Plan and changed format.
• Discussed ICRC partnership and complaint process.
• Discussed treatment of Asian community in Ames since COVID-19. Liming Pals shared her
survey with AHRC.
• Discussed a thank you to Chief Cychosz for his public statement about policing and the death of
George Floyd. Chair Jill Crosser sent message via email.
JUNE 2020:
• Developed a Social Media Messaging Plan addressing the Asian Community and worked with
City staff for video creation.
• Approval of FY2020/21 Annual Budget.
• AHRC brochure updates suggested and made.
• Social Media posts of all Commissioners photo and bios started.
• Updated Strategic Plan (2020-2022) approved by AHRC.
• NAACP Town Hall Meeting involvement.
• Reviewed yearly calendar for AHRC presence opportunities (most events cancelled due to
COVID-19 pandemic).
JULY 2020:
• Met with ICRC Executive Director, Elizabeth Johnson on role and responsibility of ICRC and
the process used to receive and investigate complaints.
3
• AHRC approved and signed Cooperative Agreement for ICRC FY2020/21.
• Preparation for presentation of 2019 Annual Report to City Council on August 11, 2020.
AUGUST 2020:
• Chair Jill Crosser updated the Commission about on-going planning for the 2020 Symposium
on Building Inclusive Organizations.
• 2019 Annual Report presented to Ames City Council at City Council meeting.
• Connected with Ames Pride for virtual event information.
• AHRC worked with Elizabeth Johnson at ICRC to update forms on the webpage to include
more than the English language (Chinese, Spanish).
• Communication/suggestions made with transgender, gender-conforming, gender questioning
individuals, updates/revisions made to AHRC literature and City website/brochures.
• Photos/Bios of AHRC members posted via social media.
SEPTEMBER 2020:
• AHRC members reviewed City of Ames and ICRC websites for gender neutral and inclusion
language.
• AHRC Commission members took part in NAACP Town Hall meeting.
OCTOBER 2020:
• Approved Vice Chair Wayne Clinton to serve on behalf of the AHRC on the Martin Luther King
Jr. Celebration Planning Committee.
• Appointment of new AHRC Member, Leslie Ginder to fill the unexpired term of Liming Pals.
NOVEMBER 2020:
• Approved Humanitarian Award application materials and referred City staff to post on AHRC
webpage.
• Updates and revision suggestions made to Good Neighbor Brochure and the Diversity and
Inclusion webpage (larger font, add language about medical care, Ames on the go app,
hyperlink videos)
• Chair Jill Crosser proposed a social media guideline for the City.
• Chair Jill Crosser nominated and awarded 4 under 40 Ames Chamber of Commerce award.
• Vice Chair Wayne Clinton and his wife, Edna, nominated and awarded Diversity and Inclusion
award with Ames Chamber of Commerce.
• Chair Jill Crosser and Vice Chair Wayne Clinton met with ISU Margo Foreman Assistant Vice
President for Diversity and Inclusion and Equal Opportunity to discuss a partnership.
• 2020 Symposium on Building Inclusive Organizations had a great turnout despite a virtual
platform.
• Commission provided a memo to City Council including recommendations on “Policing in
Ames” conversations and Diversity and Inclusion work with the City of Ames Police Department.
DECEMBER 2020:
• Joint meeting with AHRC and Public Relations Officer, Susan Gwiasda, to look at stats from
social media posts. Commission member introductions on Facebook had over 4000 hits.
• Discussed January social media posts, annual calendar of events and Vice Chair Wayne
Clinton’s Chamber award photo and message.
• AHRC selected Charles Grimm as the Humanitarian Award recipient and the four () nominees
received paper certificates in the mail as recognition signed by Chair Jill Crosser.
• AHRC approved up to $300 in gift cards for essay contest for Dr. Martin Luther King Day
Celebration.
4
AMES CIVIL RIGHT COMPLAINTS
TO THE IOWA CIVIL RIGHTS COMMISSION 2020:
Citizens are able to initiate complaints to the City via the City Manager’s Office or make them directly to
the Iowa Civil Rights Commission (ICRC). As a matter of procedure, reports made to the City are sent
to the ICRC for investigation and are tracked by the ICRC. Reports have been made to ICRC involving
Ames of which the Ames Human Relations Commission is not notified. The Commission requested
aggregate summaries of the Ames complaints made to the ICRC for the purpose of understanding the
areas of complaints and concerns identified. Results of this request are provided below.
Figure 1. Discrimination Complaint Categories
There was a total of thirty-six (36) complaints in 2020 to the ICRC which are grouped in the following
four (4) categories: Employment, Education, Public Accommodation, Housing.
As indicated on the chart below, the main areas of complaint included Employment (26 complaints),
Public Accommodation (7 complaints), Education (2 complaints), and Housing (1 complaint).
Discrimination Complaints Categories
EMPLOYMENT EDUCATION PUBLIC ACCOMIDATION HOUSING
5
Figure 2. Basis for Complaint (Consolidated)
This graph illustrates the basis for the complaint areas on Figure 1. The categories are: Religion,
Gender Identity, Retaliation, National Origin, Age, Disability, Sex, Race/Color, Sexual
Orientation.
Please note that individuals may file complaints in more than one area simultaneously.
There was an increase in following categories from 2019’s data: Disability, Age, Retaliation.
As indicated on the chart below, twenty-four (24) or 67% of the complaints were based on disability
factors and fourteen (14) or 39% retaliation.
0 5 10 15 20 25
Sexual Orientation
Race/Color
Sex
Disability
Age Retaliation
National Origin
Retaliation
Gender Identity 1
Religion
Basis for Complaint (Consolidated)
6
Figure 3. Results of Complaints
The following chart reviews the results of the complaints in 2020 given by the Iowa Civil Rights
Commission. Fourteen (14) of these complaints received administrative closure, one (1) was deemed
“No Probable Cause”, twelve (12) are Under Open Investigation, five (5) issued a Right-to-Sue letter,
two (2) Satisfactory Adjustment and two (2) were Withdrawn.
Summary:
As the data shows, the City of Ames had thirty-six (36) complaints to ICRC . For comparison, in
calendar year 2019there were thirteen (13) complaints filed from Ames, which is an increase of over
177%. Of these complaints in 2019, ten (10) were related to employment, while the remaining three (3)
were related to housing. . In 2020, of the thirty-six (36) complaints, the majority were in employment
and education areas. The bases or basis for the complaints were: retaliation (8), disability (5), sex (4),
race (4), sexual orientation (2) national origin (1).
With the 2020 data presented, it’s evident that disability and employment have increased in complaints.
There was also an overall increase in complaints in which could be represented to the pandemic or
simply better visibility on how to file a complaint.
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14
Administrative Closure
Satisfactory Adjustment
Right to Sue
Withdrawal
Open
No Probable Cause
Results of Complaints
7
AMES COMPLAINTS – (JANUARY 2020 – DECEMBER 2020)
(Full 2020 Information shared by Iowa Civil Rights Commission)
Area Basis Cause of Action Result
Employment Race, Disability, Retaliation Harassment, Discharge Administrative
Closure (AC)
Employment Sex, Sexual Orientation,
Gender Identity, Disability
Harassment, Sexual
Harassment, Constructive
Discharge
Satisfactory
Adjustment
Employment Disability, Retaliation Accommodation, Discharge Right-to-Sue
Employment Age, Disability Discharge AC
Employment Disability
Harassment,
Accommodation, Reduced
Pay, Discharge
Withdrawal
Employment Sex, Sexual Orientation,
Retaliation
Opposition, Sexual
Harassment, Constructive
Discharge
Right-to-Sue
Education National Origin, Religion,
Disability, Retaliation
Service, Benefits,
Harassment, Discipline AC
Employment Sex, Age
Demotion, Training,
Harassment, Reduced Pay,
Assignment
AC
Employment Race, Color, National Origin
Promotion, Training,
Harassment, Reduced
Hours, Reduced Pay,
Discharge
AC
Employment Disability, Religion, Age,
Retaliation Discipline, Discharge Open
Employment Disability, Retaliation Accommodation, Hiring,
Harassment, Discharge Right-to-Sue
Employment Race, Color, Age Benefits, Promotion, Pay,
Discharge Right-to-Sue
Employment Race, Color, Disability,
Retaliation
Harassment, Suspension,
Discipline, Discharge Open
Employment Disability, Retaliation Accommodation, Discipline AC
Public
Accommodation Race, Color, Sex Service AC
Employment Age, Disability Accommodation,
Assignment, Discharge
Withdrawal
w/Satisfactory
Adjustment
8
Employment Sex, Retaliation
Harassment, Sexual
Harassment, Discipline,
Opposition, Discharge
AC
Employment Age Layoff, Discharge AC
Employment Race, Disability, Retaliation Accommodation,
Harassment, Discharge Right-to-Sue
Employment Race, Color Discharge AC
Employment Sex, Age, Retaliation
Harassment, Sexual
Harassment, Pay,
Assignment, Demotion,
Training, Constructive
Discharge
AC
Employment Race, Age, Disability
Accommodation,
Harassment, Promotion,
Suspension, Discharge
AC
Public
Accommodation
Race, Sex, National Origin,
Religion, Disability Service, Accommodation AC
Housing Race, Disability Terms & Conditions,
Eviction
No Probable
Cause
Public
Accommodation Disability Service AC
Employment Sex, Disability Accommodation, Discipline,
Discharge AC
Employment Sex, Age Hiring Open
Public
Accommodation Race, Sex, Color Service, Harassment Open
Employment Sex, Age, Disability,
Retaliation
Accommodation, Reduced
Hours, Harassment, Sexual
Harassment, Discharge
Open
Employment Sex, Age, Disability Accommodation, Demotion,
Pay, Assignment Open
Employment Disability, Retaliation Discharge Open
Public
Accommodation Disability, Religion Accommodation, Service Open
Public
Accommodation Disability, Religion Accommodation, Service Open
Employment Sex, Retaliation Sexual Harassment,
Constructive Discharge Open
Education Religion, Disability Accommodation, Service Open
Public
Accommodation Disability Accommodation, Service Open
9
AMES HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION 2020-22 STRATEGIC PLAN
Strategic Goal A – Advocacy
The Ames Human Relations Commission (AHRC) values a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community
and will function as an advocacy group for the citizens of the City of Ames. The Commission will
undertake activities to discover, conduct analysis on, and circumvent instances that may lead to
prohibited discrimination so that the community can be warned and assisted in preventing it.
Commission members will be active participants in the City, will develop and follow a protocol to handle
discriminatory incidents in the community, and will report and make recommendations directly to the
City Council to ensure all voices are heard.
Strategic Goal B – Information & Analysis
The Ames Human Relations Commission (AHRC) will study the existence, character, causes and
extent of discriminatory practices in the community while using resources to gain information and work
with community partners, leaders, and report directly to the City Council.
OBJECTIVE 1: AHRC will maintain objective knowledge related to claims of discrimination.
• AHRC will work directly with the Iowa Civil Right Commission and will collaborate annually with a
representative to better understand the complaint process.
• AHRC will obtain and review reports from the Iowa Civil Rights Commission on claims of
discrimination in relation to types and probable cause.
• AHRC will obtain and review reports from the ICRC on types of claims made locally in writing, or on
the website and report of Discriminatory Claims to the City, and any concerns expressed to
HumanRelations@cityofames.org.
• AHRC will obtain and review formal and informal reports that will be used to determine priority areas
of focus and will share with City Council and community leaders as needed.
OBJECTIVE 2: AHRC will partner with City and Community members to learn about discrimination and
how to decrease the risk.
• AHRC will partner with community employers and human resource specialists to identify concerns and
opportunities for non-discriminatory workplace cultures as needed.
• AHRC will summarize and share qualitative and quantitative findings with City Council relating to
claims of discrimination.
• AHRC will work with the City to identify public reporting related to inclusion and anti-discriminatory
practices.
OBJECTIVE 3: AHRC will identify opportunities for obtaining information related to community member
perceptions and experiences in relation to housing, employment, public accommodation, race and
ethnic minority, gender identify, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, or
familial status.
• AHRC will reach out to community partners or populations to identify concerns or successes in the
areas mentioned above.
• AHRC will collect and summarize findings to be used for future planning, i.e. Community
Demographics, CyRide or City Surveys.
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OBJECTIVE 4: AHRC will be an active presence in providing community education and deterring
discrimination.
• AHRC will increase engagement and community interactions.
• AHRC will monitor and report contacts or participation in relation to social media and public
engagement activities.
Strategic Goal C – Public Awareness & Effective Communication
The Ames Human Relations Commission strives to be a central location for the citizens of the City of
Ames to advocate for, build awareness of, and communicate with. Commission members will connect
with their community through public awareness and effective communication members.
Objective 1: AHRC will work to improve effectiveness in communicating with the general public
through media outlets
• AHRC will increase engagement, community interactions and raise public awareness of the
Commission’s work by expanding media outreach.
• AHRC will provide educational press releases on topics related to housing, employment,
education/training, public accommodations or services, credit, and other topics to the city of Ames
Facebook page, and other media outlets regularly.
• AHRC will administer communication with the press following discriminatory incidents in the Ames
community as determined by the commission.
• AHRC will monitor and report contacts or participation in relation to social media and public
engagement activities.
Objective 2: AHRC will maintain an active presence in the Ames community
• AHRC will be active in the community and have commissioners attend events listed in the
Commission’s annual calendar with visible identification (t-shirt, name-tag).
• AHRC will co-sponsor community events with aligned organizations and individuals throughout the
city.
• AHRC will provide and update the annual calendar of events online.
• AHRC will raise public awareness of community organizations, activities, and individuals that
exemplify inclusivity and a nondiscriminatory approach. Members will be present at annual awarding
the Humanitarian award (January-Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Holiday) and Fair Housing Award
(April at City Council).
Objective 3: AHRC will keep all documentation related to its mission current, easy to navigate,
assessable, and with person first language
• AHRC will create link to educational pieces and resolutions, Iowa Civil Rights Commission
documents, etc. from the website to improve access to publications and dissemination of information for
all persons.
• AHRC will provide translated bolded/large print directions (in Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, and Korean)
on (a) how to translate the web contents on the City site; (b) how to file a complaint; (c) how to access
interpretation for other City services.
• AHRC will provide translated bolded/large print directions (in Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, and Korean)
on how to obtain interpretive services for assistance in understanding discrimination laws and filing
complaints on all AHRC Documents.
• AHRC will provide a link to Iowa Civil Rights Commission Complaint Form directions in Spanish and
Chinese. AHRC will also provide information on how to obtain it in other languages and formats.
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• AHRC will improve communication with transgender, gender-nonconforming, and gender questioning
persons within the Ames community and will assist in the revision of all City website and brochures to
include gender neutral language by removing his/her language from AHRC-specific literature.
Strategic Goal D – Management Excellence
The Ames Human Relations Commission will ethically work towards this strategic plan for the
betterment of our community in an ethical and fiscally responsible way.
Objective 1: AHRC will strive to keep this strategic plan at the forefront of all its decisions and activities
and within our areas of focus and expertise
• AHRC’s monthly meeting agenda will reflect the strategic plan by indicating a section for each
strategic goal and all the council’s priorities will feed each section.
• AHRC Commission Members will work with community partners who specialize in areas of expertise
• AHRC Commission members will represent the AHRC with respect, recognize and celebrate the
strength of the City of Ames’ greatest asset, the value of all people, via diversity and inclusion. They will
be respectful of opinions, customs, and individual preferences to help build strong relationships.
Objective 2: AHRC will manage the annual budget in a fiscally responsible manner
• AHRC will strive to effectively spend the budgeted monies from the Ames City Council responsibly.
Monies allocated for the Commission should only be used in ways what advance these strategic goals.
• AHRC will describe the ways in which its monies were used and in what ways its use advanced the
goals described above in the annual report.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA JUNE 22, 2021
The Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor John Haila at 6:00 p.m.
on June 22, 2021, in the City Council Chambers in City Hall, 515 Clark Avenue, pursuant to law.
Present were Council Members Gloria Betcher, Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen, Amber Corrieri, Tim
Gartin, Rachel Junck, and David Martin. Ex officio Member Trevor Poundstone was also in
attendance.
The Mayor announced that the Council was working off an Amended Agenda. City staff had added
an item to the Consent Agenda to approve a new 5-day (June 24 - 29, 2021) Class C Liquor License
for the Mucky Duck at Reiman Gardens at 1407 University Boulevard.
CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Beatty-Hansen requested to pull, for further discussion,
Item No. 6d: Special Class C Liquor License (BW) Class B Wine Permit, Outdoor Service & Sunday
Sales - Wheatsfield Cooperative, 413 Northwestern. Council Member Betcher asked to pull Item No.
18: Requests from ISU Homecoming Central Committee for Iowa State University Homecoming
Parade on October 17, 2021, for separate discussion.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Junck, to approve the following items on the Consent Agenda.
1.Motion approving payment of claims
2.Motion approving Minutes of Regular City Council Meeting held June 8, 2021
3.Motion approving Report of Change Orders for period June 1 - 15, 2021
4.Motion setting Special City Council Meeting for August 3, 2021, for workshop on Ames Plan
2040
5.Motion setting salaries for Council appointees
6.Motion approving new 5-day (June 24 - 29, 2021) Class C Liquor License for Mucky Duck
at Reiman Gardens, 1407 University Boulevard
7.Motion approving renewal of the following Beer Permits, Wine Permits and Liquor Licenses:
a.Class C Liquor License with Sunday Sales - Red Lobster, 519 South Duff Ave,
Pending Dram Shop Insurance
b.Class C Beer Permit with Class B Native Wine Permit & Sunday Sales - Hampton Inn
& Suites Ames, 2100 SE 16th St
c.Class B Beer with Sunday Sales - Panchero’s Mexican Grill, 1310 S Duff Ave
d.Special Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service & Sunday Sales - Botanero
Latino, 604 East Lincoln Way, Pending Dram Shop Insurance
e.Class C Liquor License with Catering Privilege, Outdoor Service & Sunday Sales -
Iowa State Levy@Fisher Theater, 1805 Center Drive, Pending Dram Shop Insurance
f.Class C Liquor License with Catering Privilege, Outdoor Service & Sunday Sales -
Iowa State Levy@Scheman Building, 1805 Center Drive, Pending Dram Shop
Insurance
8.Motion approving request from Ames Convention & Visitors Bureau for Fireworks Permit for
display from ISU Parking Lot G7 East of Jack Trice Stadium at 10:00 p.m. on July 3, 2021 for
Independence Day Celebration.
9.RESOLUTION NO. 21-339 approving and adopting Supplement No. 2021-3 to Municipal
Code
10.RESOLUTION NO. 21-340 appointing Aspen Pflanz to serve on Public Art Commission
11.RESOLUTION NO. 21-341 appointing Kayonna Topp to Planning & Zoning Commission
12.RESOLUTION NO. 21.342 appointing Lynette Plander to Human Relations Commission
13.RESOLUTION NO. 21-343 approving 2021-2022 Pay Plan
14.RESOLUTION NO. 21-344 approving FY 2021/22 Commission On The Arts (COTA) Annual
Grants
15.RESOLUTION NO. 21-345 approving Encroachment Permit Agreement for Sign at 118
Kellogg
16.RESOLUTION NO. 21-346 approving Service Agreement between City of Ames and
Cornerstone Government Affairs, Inc.
17.Request for Midnight Madness on July 10, 2021:
a.RESOLUTION NO. 21-347 approving partial lane closure of Collaboration Place
Road to S Riverside Drive (north side lane), S Riverside Drive North to Airport Road
(west side lane), Airport Road between S Riverside Drive & South Loop Drive (south
side of east bound traffic),South Loop Drive (east side of road), and University
Boulevard from Cottonwood Rd to Collaboration Place (east side of road).
18.Requests from ISU Homecoming Central Committee for Iowa State University Homecoming
Parade on October 17, 2021:
a.Motion approving blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit
b.Motion approving blanket Vending License
c.RESOLUTION NO. 21-348 approving closure of portions of Pearle Avenue, 5th Street,
Main Street, Clark Avenue, Burnett Avenue, Kellogg Avenue, Douglas Avenue, Depot
Lot TT, City Hall Parking Lot M, City Hall Parking Lot MM from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00
p.m.
d.RESOLUTION NO. 21-349 approving closure of parking spaces along Parade route
from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
e.RESOLUTION NO. 21-350 authorizing access to City-owned electrical outlets and
approving a waiver of fees for the electricity used
f.RESOLUTION NO. 21-351 approving waiver of Vending License fees
19.Intelligent Traffic System (ITS) Program (Traffic Network):
a.RESOLUTION NO. 21-355 approving Iowa Clean Air Attainment Program (ICAAP)
Grant Agreement for Phase 2 in the amount of $1,400,000
b.RESOLUTION NO. 21-356 approving Addendum No. 1 to contract with GBA
Systems Integrators for design of Phase 2 in an amount not to exceed $203,625
20.Purchase of Public Safety Software Maintenance:
a.RESOLUTION NO. 21-357 waiving formal bidding requirements
b.RESOLUTION NO. 21-358 approving contract with CentralSquare of Lake Mary,
Florida, in the amount of $191,919.42
21.Purchase of Financial Software Hosting and Maintenance:
a.RESOLUTION NO. 21-359 waiving formal bidding requirements due to sole-source
provider
b.RESOLUTION NO. 21-360 awarding a contract to CentralSquare in the amount of
$133,410.95
22.Radio Units, Water Meters, and Related Parts and Services:
2
a.RESOLUTION NO. 21-361 waiving competitive bidding requirements for procuring
water meters and radio ERTs and extend the single-source contract to continue the
replacement cycle
b.RESOLUTION NO. 21-362 extending contract with Itron, Inc., of Liberty Lake,
Washington, to furnish radio units, meters, and related parts and services from July 1,
2021, through June 30, 2024, with the FY 2021/22 Agreement being in an amount not
to exceed $458,300
23.CyRide Automatic Passenger Counters and Independent Project Evaluation:
a.RESOLUTION NO. 21-363 approving single-source procurement of 78 automatic
passenger counter units and associated hardware to GMV Syncromatics of Los
Angeles, California, in the amount of $484,098
b.RESOLUTION NO. 21-364 approving single-source procurement of an independent
evaluation of the project to Nelson/Nygaard of Seattle, Washington, in the amount of
$43,602, subject to concurrence from the Federal Transit Administration
24.Interior LED signs:
a.RESOLUTION NO. 21-365 waiving Purchasing Policies and Procedures for formal
bidding procedures
b.RESOLUTION NO. 21-366 approving single-source procurement of interior LED
signs from GMV Syncromatics of Los Angeles, California, at a total not-to-exceed
amount of $126,720
25.RESOLUTION NO. 21-367 awarding contract to Ames Ford Lincoln, of Ames, Iowa, for three
Ford Police Interceptor Utility Hybrid Vehicles in the total amount of $109,022.76
26.RESOLUTION NO. 21-368 awarding contract to Wesco Distribution of Des Moines, Iowa for
the 750 KCMIL Copper Cable for Electric Distribution Inventory in the amount of
$129,144.72 (inclusive of sales tax)
27.2020/21 Airport Improvements (Runway 01-19 & Taxiway A North Lighting Project):
a.RESOLUTION NO. 21-369 approving the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
Grant Agreement for 100% Federal Funding in the amount of $493,300
b.RESOLUTION NO. 21-370 approving contract and bond with Voltmer, Inc.
28.RESOLUTION NO. 21-371 approving contract and bond for Ada Hayden Heritage Park
Fishing Pier Improvements
29.RESOLUTION NO. 21-372 approving contract and bond for 2020/21 Multi-Modal Roadway
Program (Vet Med Trail - S. 16th Street) - Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon
30.Boiler Maintenance Services:
a.RESOLUTION NO. 21-373 approving renewal of contract with Plibrico Company
LLC, of Omaha, Nebraska, from July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022, in the amount of
$315,000
b.RESOLUTION NO. 21-374 approving Performance Bond
31.RESOLUTION NO. 21-375 approving renewal of contract with ChemTreat, Inc., of Glen
Allen, Virginia, regarding Chemical Treatment Program for one-year period from July 1, 2021,
through June 30, 2022, in an amount not to exceed $325,000
32.RESOLUTION NO. 21-376 accepting completion of the 2019/20 Asphalt Street Pavement
Improvements project (14th Street and 15th Street)
33.RESOLUTION NO. 21-377 accepting completion of Water Plant Radio Telemetry Upgrades
34.RESOLUTION NO. 21-378 approving Plat of Survey for 1604 Truman Drive
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35.RESOLUTION NO. 21-379 approving Plat of Survey for 100 S. 16th Street and defer sidewalk
improvements along S. Kellogg Avenue frontage
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motions/Resolutions declared carried/adopted unanimously, signed by the
Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
SPECIAL CLASS C LIQUOR LICENSE (BW) CLASS B WINE PERMIT, OUTDOOR
SERVICE & SUNDAY SALES - WHEATSFIELD COOPERATIVE, 413 NORTHWESTERN,
PENDING DRAM SHOP: Council Member Beatty-Hansen explained that she had requested to pull
this item in order to abstain from voting due to a conflict of interest.
Moved by Martin, seconded by Corrieri, to approve the Special Class C Liquor License (BW) Class
B Wine Permit, Outdoor Service & Sunday Sales for Wheatsfield Cooperative at 413 Northwestern
Avenue.
Vote on Motion: 5-0-1. Voting Aye: Betcher, Corrieri, Gartin, Martin, Junck. Voting Nay: None.
Abstaining due to Conflict of Interest: Beatty-Hansen.
REQUESTS FROM ISU HOMECOMING CENTRAL COMMITTEE FOR ISU
HOMECOMING EVENTS ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2021: Council Member Betcher
mentioned that she had pulled this item to speak about the fireworks. She noted that the Council
Action Form indicated that the request for fireworks would be on another Agenda, but wanted to
have a representative from ISU speak about what is being done to notify the citizens about the events
and fireworks. Ms. Betcher also wanted to know if anyone had spoken with the Veterans Center
Director about the fireworks. She commented that she is bringing this up as there have been
complaints in the past about veterans not expecting fireworks.
Carly Rahn, 715 Lynn Avenue, Ames, commented that she is one of the Homecoming Directors for
the Iowa State Homecoming Committee. She mentioned that she and the other Co-Director would
not have any problem reaching out to the Veterans Center. Ms. Rahn stated they could put together
an Outreach Plan for the Council regarding what steps they are going to take. She noted that they are
trying hard to work on community outreach and want the event to be bigger and better than ever. Ms.
Betcher stated she would appreciate having the Plan, and if everything works then it can be used
every year and she won’t have to pull this item from Consent in the future for further discussion. Ms.
Rahn went over what events will be happening during Homecoming week.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to approve the following ISU Homecoming Events on
Friday, October 22, 2021:
a.ExCYtement in the Streets
i.Motion approving blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit
ii.RESOLUTION NO. 21-352 approving closure of portions of Sunset Drive,
Ash Avenue, Gray Avenue, and Pearson Avenue from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
iii.RESOLUTION NO. 21-353 approving suspension of parking regulations for
closed areas from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. on Friday October 22, 2021
b.Central Campus Events
i.Motion approving blanket Vending License
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ii.RESOLUTION NO. 21-354 approving waiver of the Vending License fee
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motions/Resolutions declared carried/adopted unanimously, signed by the
Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
PUBLIC FORUM: Richard Deyo, 505-8th Street, #2, Ames, stated that when COVID happened
he was given a notice by Commander Huff and Police Mental Health Advocate Julie Saxton that he
was unable to open the door to City Hall for people due to social distancing. He wanted to know if
he was able to go back to opening the door for people. Mr. Deyo noted that he had previously been
given an oath of office by the previous Mayor to be the official doorman for City Hall. He then
mentioned it would be more appropriate for him to speak during Council Comments and explained
that he has asked several times.
Mayor Haila closed Public Forum when no one else came forward to speak.
CONSIDERATION OF INITIATING AN APPLICATION FOR VOLUNTARY
ANNEXATION OF 28.43 ACRES OF LAND LOCATED ALONG N. 500TH AVENUE
(PARCEL NO. 0906300120) IMMEDIATELY ADJACENT TO THE AMES CITY LIMITS:
Planning and Housing Director Kelly Diekmann noted that this was a request to initiate an
annexation for approximately 28 acres of land. The application was for a 100% voluntary annexation
for the property located along North 500th Avenue just north of the Sunset Ridge Subdivision.
Director Diekmann stated that per City Council Policy once someone has filed a petition the request
is brought before City Council to get direction on whether to initiate the application or whether to
consider other options for annexation. In this case, the annexation is consistent with the Land Use
Policy Plan (LUPP), the area was identified as expansion for the City, and it will fit within the plans
for the City with infrastructure extensions and residential development. The question before the
Council was to: 1) proceed as requested with a 100% Voluntary Annexation; 2) consider adding
additional properties (which staff have identified along the west side of the property to make more
uniformed boundaries); or 3) reach out to the adjacent property owners to see what their interest in
annexation was.
Council Member Betcher asked Director Diekmann to point out which properties staff would reach
out to. Director Diekmann indicated on the map which five property owners would be contacted (for
a total of seven properties).
Mayor Haila opened public comment.
Justin Dodge, Hunziker Companies, 105 S. 16th Street, Ames, stated he hoped the Council received
his email stating that he had reached out to Dick and Rena Hall as well as David Junk, who both
indicated they wanted to be left in the county. He noted that Hunziker did not reach out to
McDorman-Sands or the Allemans about annexing into the City. Mr. Dodge commented that it is
their goal to bring this land into the City as 100% Voluntary, this way they are not forcing anyone
else to be annexed. He indicated that the parcels to the north could annex into the City anytime they
wanted to. It was mentioned that Hunziker Companies is filling up Sunset Ridge and will be
finishing out the rest of the lots this year and made available to builders. Mr. Dodge indicated that
5
they are looking at this property to have single-family detached homes similar to what is in Sunset
Ridge and would like to get the process going.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Martin, to move ahead with Alternative 3, which states to
defer taking action regarding the Application for Voluntary Annexation and direct staff to send a
letter out to the four owners of abutting properties to gauge interest in being included in the
annexation.
Vote on Motion: 5-0-1. Voting Aye: Beatty-Hansen, Betcher, Corrieri, Martin, Junck. Voting Nay:
None. Abstaining due to Conflict of Interest: Gartin.
HEARING ON THE PRAIRIE VIEW INDUSTRIAL CENTER UTILITY EXTENSION
PROJECT: Public Works Director John Joiner explained that this project will extend the sanitary
sewer and water main infrastructure along East Lincoln Way. The Base Bid was to extend the
services to Teller Avenue (formerly 580th), and Alternate 1 would be to extend the services another
mile to the east to Potter Avenue (formerly 590th). When the bids were received, staff analyzed the
bids and the current bidding environment (due to the COVID pandemic). Staff’s recommendation
was to award the project as the Base Bid only.
Director Joiner noted that staff reviewed the available financing and explained the total General
Obligation (G.O.) bonds issued for this project was $5.3 million. To be on the conservative side, the
Council Action Form only listed $4.3 million, and that amount was listed on the application for the
Economic Development Administration (EDA) Grant. Director Joiner stated there is a total of $4.3
million available in G.O. Bonds and $1.5 million from the EDA Grant. To look at the funds needed
to award the Base Bid as well as the engineering and administration costs to finish the project, staff
would need to take $900,000 from the American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding. He pointed out that
the ARP funds were recently distributed to the City from the U.S. Treasury as part of the American
Rescue Plan Act. The City has received approximately half of the allocation of $7 million and will
receive another $7 million in May 2022. The purpose of the Act is to backfill lost revenues that have
occurred during and after the pandemic. Any remaining funds may be used for investments in water,
sewer, and broadband infrastructure. To move this project forward, staff is recommending using
$900,000 from the ARP funding in order to fund this utility extension project.
Council Member Gartin inquired what the City’s borrowing capacity would be if the City was to pay
for this project on its own without using the ARP funds. Director Joiner commented that staff would
first look for bond savings (unallocated bonds); however, the ARP funds are specifically for water,
sewer, and broadband projects. Mr. Joiner noted that this project would be the perfect use for the
ARP funds. Mr. Gartin asked to verify that the City has the resources to do this project without using
the federal funds. Director Joiner mentioned that the City was close to having the amount available
and did identify bond savings in the amount of $775,000, but still short the total amount of $900,000.
City Manager Steve Schainker stated that staff is providing more flexibility of the funding for future
projects. He noted the City doesn’t anticipate that the bidding climate is going to correct itself in the
near future. By freeing up the General Obligation Bonds, there will be flexibility to use those bonds
for bids that will come in higher than what was budgeted for streets or other projects. Mr. Schainker
6
pointed out that the City is looking ahead and preparing for an unfavorable bidding climate for the
next few months. Mr. Gartin commented that if the City starts with the premise that the ARP funds
will be available to spend, then the staff’s proposal makes sense and he is supportive of the project.
He stated that his reservation is about the federal budget; the funding is an unsustainable course. His
preference was to send the money back to the federal government and have the City pay for the
project itself.
Mayor Haila opened the public hearing regarding the ARP funds and awarding the project. When
no one came forward, it was closed.
Moved by Martin, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-380 authorizing the use of
the American Rescue Plan Act (ARP) funds in the amount of $900,000 for the Prairie View
Industrial Center Utility Extension Project.
Roll Call Vote: 5-1. Voting Aye: Betcher, Beatty-Hansen, Corrieri, Junck, Martin. Voting Nay:
Gartin. Resolution declared adopted, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these
Minutes.
Moved by Martin, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-381 approving the final
plans and specifications and awarding a contract to Keller Excavating, Inc., of Boone, Iowa, in the
amount of $6,168,791.40, contingent upon acceptance by the Economic Development
Administration (EDA).
Roll Call Vote: 5-1. Voting Aye: Betcher, Beatty-Hansen, Corrieri, Junck, Martin. Voting Nay:
Gartin. Resolution declared adopted, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these
Minutes.
HEARING ON 2018/19 MAIN STREET PAVERS - BURNETT TO KELLOGG: Public Works
Director John Joiner mentioned this project continues the replacement of the Main Street pavers.
One block was completed from Clark Avenue to Burnett. This project was to bid for the remaining
three blocks of Main Street. The Base Bid was for Burnett Avenue to Kellogg Avenue and the
following four Alternates: 1) Alternate 1 - Main Street (Kellogg Avenue to Douglas Avenue); 2)
Main Street (Douglas Avenue to Duff Avenue); 3) Main Street paver material only (Kellogg Avenue
to Douglas Avenue); and 4) Main Street paver material only (Douglas Avenue to Duff Avenue). An
issue that happened with the first phase was that the existing pavers had a concrete setting base
underneath and the City intended to utilize that base; however, when the old pavers were removed,
staff found that the concrete base was “powder” in many locations. That finding brought the project
costs up more than what was originally anticipated. Staff recommended to award the Base Bid plus
Alternates 3 and 4. Director Joiner mentioned that with buying the materials now, staff would be able
to bid for the installation of the pavers later in the fall.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen asked why the concrete base crumbled and if the Council should
worry about that happening again. Mr. Joiner stated that staff believes it was caused by the overuse
of de-icing chemicals. With this project, staff is going to do a public education campaign with the
businesses located Downtown, snow removal companies, and contractors who do the de-icing.
7
Through public education, staff is hoping that citizens will be more compliant, mindful, and
thoughtful about the amount of chemicals they are using on the pavement. It was noted that the
education campaign was going to be done in partnership with the Ames Chamber of Commerce and
Ames Main Street. Ms. Beatty-Hansen inquired about the experimental heated concrete that was
discussed at one time. Municipal Engineer Tracy Peterson commented that the heated concrete was
discussed during the Welch Avenue project. A group at ISU was working on developing the
technology, and the City continued to pursue the possibility, but never received a response regarding
commercial installation or mass installation. Ms. Peterson noted that it sounded promising, but not
sure where it was in production.
Council Member Betcher wanted to know if the education campaign was something that could be
used for residential communities as well. Ms. Peterson mentioned that they already do education
through the storm water program and staff reaches out to landscape companies. It was noted that they
can step up the education in the fall to remind citizens.
Council Member Martin mentioned that when the wall was taken down at the Tom Evans Plaza,
there was a discussion about having bollards put in for safety purposes. Mr. Martin thought these
bollards would show up during the repaving, but he hasn’t seen anything yet and asked for a status
update. Director Joiner commented that the bollards will be part of the larger street-scraping efforts
on Main Street. He noted that a little curb has been installed to provide somewhat of a safety
measure where the wall used to be, but will be looking at installing the bollards and other items later.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen inquired if the bike racks were part of the “other” items. She noted
that there used to be a bike rack by the U.S. Bank and that one was removed. Mr. Joiner mentioned
that staff will be looking at replacing the bike racks during that time.
Mayor Haila opened public input and closed it when no one requested to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-382 approving the final
plans and specifications and awarding a contract to Con-Struct, Inc., of Ames, Iowa, in the amount
of $367,620 for the Base Bid plus Alternates 3 and 4.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON GRANTING EASEMENT TO INTERSTATE POWER & LIGHT FOR A
GAS PIPELINE FROM THE RIGHT-OF-WAY AT THE INTERSECTION OF E. 13TH
STREET AND MAXWELL STREET SOUTH FOR 40 FEET ALONG THE EAST SIDE OF
MAXWELL STREET: Parks and Recreation Director Keith Abraham stated that the easement
request was from Interstate Power and Light Company (IPL), an Iowa Corporation, for a permanent
easement on City property at the southeast corner of 13th Street and Maxwell Avenue, adjacent to
the Ames Municipal Cemetery. The easement would be 3-foot by 40-foot in size on the east side of
the right-of-way. IPL already has an underground gas line there and is getting ready for some
improvements along 13th Street. IPL wants to put in a new underground gas line. The City does not
have any structures or trees in the area. Staff recommended Alternative 1, which was to approve the
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Easement.
Mayor Haila opened the public hearing. It was closed when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-383 approving the
easement to Interstate Power & Light for a gas pipeline from the right-of-way at the intersection of
E. 13th Street and Maxwell Street south for 40 feet along the east side of Maxwell Street.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
ORDINANCE REGARDING CHAPTER 23 (SUBDIVISION) TEXT AMENDMENTS
(SECOND AND THIRD READINGS AND ADOPTION REQUESTED): Planning and Housing
Director Diekmann commented that the Council gave staff direction in April 2021 to address some
Chapter 23 updates. There will also be some changes to Chapter 29 that will be coming later this
summer. Mr. Diekmann noted that the significant changes were: 1) giving staff approval authority
over the Plat of Survey for boundary line adjustments and conveyance parcels; 2) staff is simplifying
some of the steps, which, will save some time for customers; and 3) no discretion is being lost by
the City and no new standards are being created.
The Public Hearing was opened by the Mayor and closed when no one asked to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to pass on first reading an ordinance regarding
Chapter 23 (Subdivision) Text Amendments.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Martin, seconded by Corrieri, to suspend the rules necessary for the adoption of an
ordinance.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Junck, to pass on second and third readings and adopt ORDINANCE
NO. 4441 regarding Chapter 23 (Subdivision) Text Amendments.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Ordinance declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
DISPOSITION OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: Mayor Haila explained that there
were three items on Dispositions. The first was a letter from Natalie C. Carran, Project Architect for
SB&A Architects, LLC, requesting a Land Use Policy Plan Amendment for the property located at
1621 Wilson Avenue.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Betcher, to request a memo from staff regarding the
possibility of a Land Use Policy Plan Amendment for the property located at 1621 Wilson Avenue.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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The second item was a letter from Ells T. Cackler and Elizabeth A. Cackler asking the Council to
permit a three-lot subdivision on their property at 4909 W. 190th Street.
City Manager Steve Schainker mentioned the request from the Cacklers may be problematic.
Director Diekmann stated in the Fringe Plan, the Cackler’s property is in a natural area designation
where the City does not allow divisions. The Cacklers are asking for the Council to consider options
for them to divide their property. Mr. Schainker inquired if the change was allowed would it also
change the Fringe Plan. Director Diekmann stated he is not sure of the answer to that question; he
didn’t think staff would change the entire Fringe Plan to allow for one subdivision, but there may
be other options that the County would accept.
Council Member Martin asked if the Council asked for a memo from staff would there be any
additional information to add besides what has already been presented. Director Diekmann explained
that staff would review the request and then provide a Memo letting the Council know where staff
stands on the issue along with the county.
Moved by Martin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to request a memo from staff along with reaching
out to the County to understand everyone’s position on the request.
Vote on Motion: 5-0-1. Voting Aye: Beatty-Hansen, Betcher, Corrieri, Martin, Junck. Voting Nay:
None. Abstaining due to Conflict of Interest: Gartin.
The last item was a memo from Kelly Diekmann, Planning & Housing Director, regarding a Text
Amendment request for the Ansley Ames Development.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Martin, to put the Text Amendment request for the Ansley Ames
Development on a future agenda for discussion.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Council Member Betcher commented that she is going to be giving a
lecture for the Ames History Museum Lecture Series next Wednesday on the history of people of
color in Ames up to 1940. She would love to have community members along with Council
Members attend the lecture. The Mayor asked if the lecture would be recorded. Ms. Betcher
explained that she thought it would be recorded and maintained on the Ames History Museum
YouTube site, but she has not confirmed that. The lecture will be on Wednesday, June 30, 2021, at
7:00 p.m. via Zoom. To get the link you would go to the Facebook page for the History Museum and
request the registration link.
Council Member Gartin stated he had sent the Council a proposal to have a Workshop dealing with
the bike infrastructure of the community. He noted that, as the Council approaches the Budget and
Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) recommendations, he felt it would be helpful to have a broad
conversation about where the City is investing in bike infrastructure.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to have a Workshop to discuss bike infrastructure in
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the community and when the following would be discussed: 1) brief overview of the City’s existing
trail system and how the City partners with ISU on the institutional trails; 2) review of the Complete
Streets Plan and how the City maintains the trails; 3) the possibility of using eminent domain to fill
gaps in the system; 4) the current CIP project for trails; and 5) the Countys efforts to connect the City
of Ames with the High Trestle Trail.
Council Member Gartin encouraged staff to reach out to the City’s partners with the Ames Bicycle
Coalition, Team Velo, ISU, and the Ames Public Schools.
Council Member Martin mentioned that he supports improving the bike infrastructure, but the way
it is described sounded like an information push event rather than something that Council would
make decisions on. He wanted to know if there was interest from other organizations to get the
Council’s attention. Mr. Gartin noted he was not sure, but his request is an informational aspect and
he believed the community is interested in how the City prioritizes what trail segment should be
worked on first and if there are other areas that the City should consider. He explained he is looking
at a comprehensive fly over and then creating a space for the community to give input as to priorities
going forward. Council Member Beatty-Hansen commented that she liked the idea of involving Iowa
State University since a lot of the infrastructure involves their property.
Mayor Haila asked Mr. Schainker what the process would be for budget preparations for next year.
Mr. Schainker noted that the Council had given staff the goal of allocating $1.2 million a year for
bike paths and $1.5 million was allocated. He explained that there is time, but would recommend
having a Workshop in the Fall when everyone is back in town. It was noted that the Comprehensive
Plan would need to be done first, but maybe have a Workshop later in the Fall.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Mayor Haila mentioned that on Saturday, June 26, 2021, there will be a ribbon cutting for the
Miracle Field and All-Inclusive Playground. The ribbon cutting starts at 10:00 a.m.; however, the
final Miracle League ball game will start at 9:00 a.m.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Betcher to adjourn the meeting at 6:52 p.m.
______________________________________________________________________
Amy L. Colwell, Deputy City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
__________________________________
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk
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MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA JUNE 15, 2021
The Special Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor John Haila at 6:00 p.m.
on the 15th day of June, 2021. Council Members Gloria Betcher, Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen, Amber
Corrieri, Tim Gartin, Rachel Junck, and David Martin were present. Ex officio Member Trevor
Poundstone was also present.
Mayor Haila announced that the Council would be working off an Amended Agenda. Added was a
Resolution to set the date of public hearing regarding granting an Easement to Interstate Power & Light
for a gas pipeline near Maxwell Street.
EASEMENT TO INTERSTATE POWER & LIGHT FOR GAS PIPELINE: Moved by Corrieri,
seconded by Martin, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-338 setting the date of public hearing for June
22, 2021, regarding granting an Easement to Interstate Power & Light for a gas pipeline from the right-
of-way at the intersection of E. 13th Street and Maxwell Street south for 40 feet along the east side of
Maxwell Street.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made
a portion of these Minutes.
WORKSHOP ON PROPOSED EXTERIOR PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE: Mayor Haila
stated that the workshop would begin with a short presentation by Fire Chief Rich Higgins and Building
Official Sara VanMeeteren. Goals of the proposed Ordinance were reviewed, as follows:
1. Public safety
2. Healthy living conditions
3. General community welfare
4. Consolidation of Code sections
5. Clearer regulations to help citizens understand Code requirements
6. Eliminate violations in a timely manner
It was noted that the proposed Ordinance would apply to both residential and commercial properties.
Building Official VanMeeteren stated that enforcement will be complaint-driven. The complaint
process was explained. Ms. VanMeeteren advised that the City received 704 complaints in the last four
years; 524 of those were violations (74%). Internal policy is to send three notices of violation with a
compliance deadline. If the property owner fails to comply or has not agreed to an alternate compliance
schedule with staff, a citation may be issued. There were 23 citations issued in the last four years with
13 of those issued to habitual violators. A brief description of each regulation that will be contained in
the proposed Ordinance was provided, including:
Garbage Receptacles at Curb. The proposed Ordinance prohibits garbage receptacles from being kept
on the curb for longer than 24 hours. This currently applies to rental properties. There is an average
of five complaints/year on rental properties.
Outdoor Storage of Garbage. The current Ordinance requires garbage to be kept in a hard water-tight
receptacle. An average of 14 complaints/year have been received over the last four years.
Outdoor Storage of Junk. The current Ordinance prohibits the outdoor storage of items for more than
72 hours; the proposed Ordinance changes the time frame to 48 hours. There has been an average of
23 complaints/year received over last the four years.
Outdoor Storage of Yard Waste. The current and proposed Ordinances allow yard waste to remain on
a property for up to seven days. Composting in accordance with the Iowa Code is exempted from the
seven-day time frame. An average of 13 complaints/year have been received over the last four years.
Stagnant Water. The definition of “standing water” is that which is trapped and does not circulate. A
time frame to allow rainwater to dissipate after heavy rain events could be added.
Debris on Sidewalk: The proposed Ordinance prohibits debris from being on a sidewalk. A time frame
could be added to allow it to be removed.
Right-of-Way Vegetation. The proposed Ordinance limits the height of vegetation in the right-of-way
to 12 inches, but it does not limit species. Three possible alternatives were given.
Right-of-Way Encroachment. The current Ordinance requires owners to maintain adjacent sidewalks
and parking.
Dense Vegetation: The proposed Ordinance prohibits dense vegetation; however, they could limit it to
just vegetation that impedes ingress/egress.
Turf Grass. The proposed Ordinance prohibits turf grasses from exceeding 12" in height. There has
been an average of 35 complaints/year over the last four years on non-rental properties.
Dangerous Trees. The proposed Ordinance requires removal of dangerous trees. The City Forester will
make the determination if a tree is dangerous; the tree must present an immediate danger to people or
property in the public way.
Excavations/Holes. Excavations or holes would be prohibited from remaining on a property for more
than 30 days in the proposed Ordinance. This would not include egress window wells or fire pits.
Vacant Structures. The proposed Ordinance requires vacant structures to be secured.
Structural Maintenance. The proposed Ordinance requires structures to be maintained free of holes,
chipping paint cannot dominate the structure, and gutters and other appurtenances mush be secured.
Graffiti. Graffiti was defined by Building Official VanMeeteren. It becomes a violation once it has
been on the property for 48 hours. After receiving a complaint, staff will work with the owner toward
removal.
Junk Vehicles. There are very specific criteria used for deeming a junk vehicle. The City has averaged
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nine complaints per year over the last four years. The current Ordinance has provisions for citing the
owner and for removal of the vehicle by the City. There are some exceptions, which allow junk
vehicles to remain on the property in the current Ordinance.
Storage of Non-Junked Vehicles. The current Ordinance prohibits the storage of non-junked vehicles
for more than 15 days with the same exceptions as junk vehicles and one additional exception: Owners
who are out of town for more than 15 days, but not exceeding 180 days.
Recreational Vehicle Parking. The current Ordinance allows one travel trailer, recreational vehicle,
boat, or boat trailer to be parked on an approved surface for up to 72 hours behind the front-yard
setback as long as it is not being used for living purposes. The City has averaged two complaints/year
over the last four years.
Council Member Gartin shared that he is concerned about the impact the proposed Ordinance might
have on older commercial properties that have been in their current state for a very long time. To bring
the properties up to Code could cause a significant financial burden for the property owners. He
suggested that perhaps having a staggered enforcement date for residential and commercial could be
considered.
Building Official VanMeeteren gave some differences between what is being proposed for residential
and what is being proposed for commercial.
Mr. Gartin asked if there was there anything being considered to help those property owners who will
be caused significant financial burdens by the proposed Ordinance. He suggested that perhaps the City
could consider a loan-type grant. Mr. Gartin stated that he does worry about the potential of
weaponizing the Code based on a dislike for a certain property owner.
Council Member Corrieri noted that Story County has a trust fund that could help pay for larger repair
projects for property owners. She shared that $186,000 had been allocated last year, and additional
funds were recently allocated to trust funds.
At the request of the Mayor, Ms. VanMeeteren explained the process staff follows when a complaint
is received.
Ms. VanMeeteren emphasized that what is being proposed in the Ordinance is the minimum standard.
After being asked, she commented that the vegetation height requirement will pertain to properties on
Main Street. There currently is no exception; however, the intent is not to prevent people from having
hostas or other types of taller vegetation; the primary concerns are visibility and safety.
According to Ms. VanMeeteren, the City’s Community Codes Liaison responds to complaints and
educates property owners. Those calling in complaints may remain anonymous; however, staff will not
be able to follow up with the complainant.
The question was asked if a property owner could find out how many times a property had been
reported as violating an ordinance. Ms. VanMeeteren advised that an Open Records Request may be
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submitted. The City also has a Citizen Permitting Portal, which contains that type of information.
Mayor Haila reiterated that the proposed Ordinance would be complaint-driven only.
Public Input. The Mayor welcomed those who wished to provide their thoughts; however, there will
not be dialogue with the Council at this meeting. Speakers will be allowed to talk for up to four
minutes.
Ed Lyon, 725 Hodge Avenue, Ames, Iowa, advised that he has over 300 feet of right-of-way that he
has attempted to beautify. He stated his belief that rights-of-way should be regulated; however, he
believes that the proposed Ordinance is too vague and asking too much too quickly. The City has
allowed different types of gardens to be planted in the rights-of-way, and to suddenly go from that to
not allowing plantings to be higher than 12 inches is too much. Mr. Lyon commented that he has a real
issue with turf. Turf is the biggest consumer of water and causes issues with chemicals. He noted that
turf grows to about a maximum of about 12 inches at maturity, which is what is now being proposed
in the Ordinance. That means that people don’t have to mow turf until it exceeds 12 inches, which is
going to be far less attractive. Where the plantings are not creating visibility issues, Mr. Lyon would
like the City to encourage people to plant and beautify the rights-of-way and help with sustainability.
Jessica McDaniel, 1521 Kellogg Avenue, Ames, noted that the City has built a community of diversity
and inclusiveness, which is laid out in the Ames Vision and strategic goals. The proposed Code creates
a conflict with that message. If the Code is implemented, homeowners would lose their right to manage
their property as they see fit or can afford. She reminded the Council that the City already has a safety
code that every homeowner is supposed to adhere to. Ms. McDaniel believes that the proposed Code
goes above and beyond the issue of safety and is geared toward achieving aesthetic uniformity. She
questioned who the proposed Code is going to impact the most. Ms. McDaniel thinks that the proposed
Code disproportionately disadvantages low-income property owners. Many of these owners are already
at risk. Instead of “looking down on those properties,” Ms. McDaniel suggested that people donate a
few hours to help their neighbor. The City should utilize its funds to help those low-income
homeowners, don’t shame and penalize them. She urged the City Council to move on to more important
items.
Helen Gunderson, 1626 Burnett, Ames, presented a short video to illustrate a well-managed prairie
patch (prairie forbs and grasses, prairie grasses and flowers,native forbs and grasses, and native grasses
and flowers) growing in a right-of-way in Ames. She asked that the City promote healthy prairie
patches and suggested that a prairie patch permit be created. Ms. Gunderson shared that she favored
the City having consistent standards for rental and owner-occupied homes. She also hopes that the
Council would ensure that the rationale for a standard is not based on an urban myth and that a decision
is not one of simply siding with the prevailing biased thinking. She explained that she has a prairie
patch in the right-of-way on her property with a prairie management system that includes cutting the
height of the patch twice in June and July, again just before school starts, and again in the spring to
begin a new season.
Ms. Gunderson shared that a big concern of hers is seeing toddlers, teenagers, and adults riding bicycles
on the sidewalks, which she believes is illegal. She has been told that riding on sidewalks is actually
4
more dangerous than riding on the street. Ms. Gunderson said that if the Council members decide to
limit the height of plantings in the right-of-way to 12 inches, they should not only set minimums, but
also engage in conversations about how to promote positives, e.g., establishing a permit program to
promote creating and maintaining prairie patches on volunteer rental owner-occupied properties. She
also believes that if the City has the authority to set standards and to respond to complaints and issue
fines for violations of the proposed Ordinance, the City should also have the authority to do something
about the unsafe nature of turf grass and the chemicals used on it. According to Ms. Gunderson, she
realizes that the City cannot go up against the EPA, but that doesn’t mean the City can’t engage in
conversations and start educating that residents can have a healthy, robust lawn by starting to mow
later, mowing less often, mowing shorter, and stop mowing earlier in the fall.
Ann Kinzel, 720 Duff Avenue, Ames, noted that there are a lot of opinions as to what a property
maintenance ordinance is. She pointed out that this is the beginning of a process. The Council is here
to take input from citizens, and at the end, she hopes that it will result in an ordinance that does regulate
private property in Ames. Citizens should think about broader questions, i.e., “What is important to the
community in regards to property maintenance and value and safety.” The Council’s job is to find a
just balance of that. Ms. Kinzel noted that a very important concern is about expenses. As a
community, Ames should find creative ways to make funds available in the form of forgivable loans
for those who want to improve their property and make it safe in such a way that is fair and equitable.
She asked that the Council members listen to their constituents and for the citizens to listen to each
other. The goal is to find a way to protect both the rights of the community and the rights of individuals.
Matthew Panthani, 307 - 8th Street, Ames, said that he was shocked that the City wanted to create the
Ordinance after looking at the justification. One of the reasons was aesthetics, which is subjective, and
the other one was motivation to not have a disparity between rentals and homeowners. Equity was also
brought up. In regards to equity between homeowners and rentals, he believed the correct term would
be equality - to have the same laws applied to each. Equity would mean that homeowners and landlords
would have the same means. Mr. Panthani said the City should strive to be equitable. Three areas that
Mr. Panthani found lacking or wrong in the proposed code are:
1. Enforceability. It is improper to have a code where it won’t be enforced in the way it is stated.
According to Mr. Panthani, history has shown that these types of laws disproportionately affect
those who are black, brown, or poor. Laws should be clear in their intention and how they will be
enforced.
2. Purpose. Oftentimes people who are renting out properties do not live in Ames. Also, he did not
believe that there had been that many complaints.
3. Some of the proposed regulations are philosophical. He noted that people should be able to do what
they want with their property as long as it is safe and doesn’t harm anyone.
Mr. Panthani pointed out that there is already a mechanism in place if people want certain standards
for their property: Residents may get together and form a Home Owners’ Association (HOA).
Personally, he talks to his neighbors about the possibility of doing things, e.g., raising chickens, on his
property. Again, it is important for the Council to think about equity and enforceability. Unclear laws
5
could disproportionately affect certain people.
Carol Stuve, 218 Hilltop, Ames, said that she was here specifically concerning a property on Tripp
Street. She would like to have an appointed official stop and talk to the people at that address, which
is full of junk. Ms. Stuve also believes that people are living in their cars on the street. In addition,
there are people constantly coming and going; it appears to be a haven for the homeless. She stated her
desire for the City to have an appointed official who could stop at that address and tell the residents
there that some of the things they are doing are not allowed. Most people do not even walk on that side
of the street anymore because the sidewalk is always congested and full of junk. This has been going
on forever and needs to be addressed. According to Ms. Stuve, the houses around the one in question
are being sold because they can’t stand the commotion and junk. She requested that the City have an
official who would stop at the address in question, talk to the residents, and address the issues. Ms.
Stuve sees the residence as a “haven for the homeless.”
Peter Hallock, 114-8th Street, Ames, said he was speaking on his own behalf as well as in his role as
President of the Old Town Neighborhood Association. He said the Old Town Neighborhood
Association partners with Parks & Recreation on a program where they have been planting “corner
gardens,” or “sign gardens” since the turn of the 21st Century. In 2005, the Association received a
Neighborhood Improvement Grant to add limestone edging around the gardens. According to Mr.
Hallock, most of the corner gardens are within the vision triangle, and currently, they have to be
maintained to the three-foot maximum.. The Association is very much opposed to changing that to a
12" maximum height for plantings in the rights-of-way. Mr. Hallock noted that, personally, he is in
favor of the Ordinance, in general, and in favor of regulating vegetation, both on properties and in the
right-of-way; however, he does not like the 12" proposal in the rights-of-way. He shared that he walks
around town a lot, and he is very much concerned about the encroachment of vegetation and “muck”
on sidewalks. Therefore, he is in favor of treating that just like the City treats snow so that sidewalks
are made passable.
Tom Niehall, 1515 Maxwell Avenue, Ames, said he was in favor of having the same regulations for
owner-occupied and rental properties - of having a uniform standard. He recognized that the fine-
tuning of it will be difficult to do, but he is in favor of it.
Norm Hawkins, 5115 Todd Drive, Ames, voiced his support of the Ordinance to say to people that they
just can’t let their property go. He believes the purpose of the Ordinance should not be aesthetics; it
should be safety. Mr. Hawkins noted that his residence is by a house on the east side that was shown
in the Power Point as not being maintained. They have seen wildlife (raccoons, woodchucks,
opossums) going in and coming out of that house.
Patrick Schmidt, 1006 Roosevelt Avenue, Ames, stated that he was not in favor of the proposed
ordinance due to the impact it would have on the climate. He thinks that Ames should have higher
standards than small town Iowa and be adaptable to change.. The younger generation wants native
natural habitats. Climate change is real; it is estimated that the Earth will only continue to exist for
another 150 years unless something is done, e.g., putting carbon in the ground through plants. Mr.
Stewart does not believe the 12" height maximum for plants in the rights-of-way is reasonable. He
noted that people who don’t maintain their properties sometimes suffer from depression, disabilities,
6
or illnesses; the community needs to help them. Those people also might not have much money. He is
not in favor of changes and asked why the changes were necessary.
Tim Stewart, 1004 Roosevelt, Ames, commented that he agreed the community needs to have some
safety standards. He said that he has a lot of plants in his yard and often has to trim along the sidewalk
in his front yard to keep a path open for pedestrians. Mr. Stewart Is particularly concerned that the
Ordinance would address dense vegetation and vermin. To some extent, he is also concerned about
vegetation in the rights-of-way. He stated that both dense vegetation and vermin need to be very well
defined. In his opinion, vermin includes brown rats and mice; it should not include opossums or
snakes, which actually eat mice. The dense vegetation provides a habitat for certain types of vermin.
Plants provide many benefits to people; they are the primary mitigation against environmental crises
and climate change. Plants absorb carbon dioxide and put it into the ground where it is stored and
provide many other benefits. Mr. Stewart shared his concern that the proposed ordinance is not
environmentally-responsible; plants should be left alone. He asked that the community “move to a new
era where “turf grass is not king and bio diversity is.”
David Brenner, 1214 Marston Avenue, Ames, said that he enjoys looking at the vegetation as he walks
around Ames; that includes the area between the sidewalk and the street. If there are those who do not
have that, the City perhaps should work with them and help them to have it, which “might be more
fun.”
Shannon Kelsem, 3312 South Bell Avenue, Ames, shared her concerns about many of the proposals
as they seem overwhelmingly aimed towards the poor, elderly, and disabled. Most people would take
care of their property if they are able. She sees it as pitting neighbor against neighbor, instead of
incentivizing community-building and relationships. In her opinion, many of the proposed regulations
are so vague and undefined that they could be used in almost any way imaginable to harass certain
homeowners. Ms. Kelsem said that her property abuts two apartment complexes, and she is very
concerned about those entities weaponizing the proposed Ordinance against her for trees or whatever
else they choose. She believes that her property is very desirable on which to construct an apartment
complex. If that is the case, she wants that to be at her choosing, not dictated by someone else. Her
property, when purchased in 2007, was probably in violation of a number of the items proposed in the
new Ordinance. Its dilapidated state was one of the reasons they were able to purchase a property in
Ames. According to Mr. Kelsem, the former owner was elderly and was unable to deal with the issues,
but was simply trying to remain in her home as long as possible. She shared that over the past 14
years, they have been able to bring their property into compliance with most of the items; however,
there was no way that that would have been possible in a short period of time.
Ms. Kelsem expressed her concern again about the vagueness of the proposed Ordinance. She noted
that the City has stated that it does not go out looking for violations, which might be the case with this
Council and the current City government, but another Council might decide to deal with it in an entirely
different way. Ms. Kelsem stated that it is not realistic for every property in Ames to be well-kempt.
People are dealing with a lot of issues and do not have the time, energy, or money to address these types
of property issues. She believes that the proposed regulations will mainly incite neighbor against
neighbor; that is not bringing Ames into unity.
7
Ms. Kelsem noted that she was shocked about the regulation concerning having a working car that is
not moved for 15 days. She shared her personal experience where her son was in the hospital and his
car did not move for weeks. Ms. Kelsem believes that regulation is targeted toward the poor because
they are the ones who would not have a garage or enough garage space to store vehicles. She asked
whose business it is whether her car hasn’t moved for 15 days.
Bill Kelsem, 3318 South Duff Avenue, said he shares the views of his sister Shannon Kelsem, who
lives next door to him. He believes that the large apartment complexes that were built nearby his
property have de-valued his property. Mr. Kelsem described some of the issues that he has encountered
with disrespectful and inconsiderate neighbors since the complexes were built. He stated his belief that
what the City is doing is wrong, and he disagrees with it.
Carol Williams, 628 - 8th Street, Ames, said that homeowners are not landlords. She shared that she has
spent 15 years adding and subtracting from the gardens at her home. Ms. Williams commented that
she would support reviewing some of the Codes for landlords if they are as much “turf-eccentric” as
the proposed Code seems to be. Ms. Williams believes that some of the proposed regulations seem to
be very much targeted towards lower-income homeowners, but yet the City has stated that it would
like to create lower-priced homes for citizens. She asked why the City wants to punish those lower-
income citizens who don’t have garages. In Ms. Williams’ opinion, the proposed Code was not written
for this vibrant community; the rights-of-way should be used for much more than grass. The proposed
regulations are too vague and only open up the possibility of unhappy neighbors tattling on each other.
She pointed out that not everyone is going to agree on what is aesthetically pleasing. Ms. Williams
asked the Council to vote no on the proposed Ordinance or re-write it to address the problems that
Council members are really worried about. If the concern is visibility at intersections, the Council
should include that. She urged the Council to consider how the proposed Code will affect low-income
homeowners.
Elias Simpson, 1011 Clark Avenue, Ames, said that he thinks that the proposed Ordinance represents
a narrow segment of the population. Mr. Simpson commented that it is hard to respond to such an
Ordinance and suggested that the City hear the voices of gardeners and environmentalists and
advocates for social justice. He noted that he chose to live in a “garden” neighborhood that encourages
vegetation. The proposed Ordinance threatens pollinators that attract bees and butterflies. Mr. Simpson
believes that the proposed Ordinance targets persons who are financially insecure, overworked, elderly,
and handicapped. He suggested that, rather than threatening those individuals, the City should try a
cooperative approach and offer trash services, towing, mowing with electric mowers, lawn
maintenance, planting, and labor that might be needed. Mr. Simpson recommended that, if changes are
needed to the Code, the Council should do so in a way that demonstrates sensitivity, sensibility,
ingenuity, generosity, and a cooperative spirit.
Porter Kelsem, 3312 South Duff Avenue, Ames, stated that the proposed Ordinance is probably the
most vague document he has ever read. He does not believe the City has the right to tell property
owners what they can do on their property. The junk vehicle section bothers him the most. He noted
that there is no real definition of what a junk vehicle is. According to Mr. Kelsem, the City makes it
impossible to build a shed large enough to work on a vehicle and store it at the same time. He believes
it is none of the City’s business whether residents have multiple vehicles, whether they are being
8
worked on or not. He pointed out that if someone has six to ten vehicles, having to move them every
15 days is a pain and having them all stored in one location is a pain. This City makes it a “nightmare”
to build anything.
Jeri Neal, 916 Ridgewood Avenue, Ames, believes it is a good thing to review ordinances from time
to time. She stated that she shared some of the concerns of those who spoke before her and those who
responded to the survey. First of all, there seems to be a sense that over-generalized terminology has
been used, which gives this a feeling of overreach. To her, the proposed Ordinance feels very “upper
middle class.” She asked how the proposed regulations can fairly take into account circumstances that
reflect social or lifestyle diversity; to her, that is a “must.” Many of the triggers are subjective, e.g., be
aesthetically pleasing. Ms. Neal said she is most concerned about the climate reality. She believes that
the City is attempting to make rules and codes that are looking outward and backward, but not forward.
What she doesn’t see is encouragement for changes that commiserate with the new climate reality; e.g.,
rights-of-way, lawns, green spaces need to service ecological niches; that needs to be incentivized. Ms.
Neal recognized that water needs to be valued; that fact is totally missing in the proposed Ordinance.
She commented that the City actually needs to add an ordinance that redirects how the City thinks about
water conservation and management. She suggested that it include that water may not run or spray off
a subject property. Potable drinking water is a gift.
Shellie Orngard, 928 Burnett Avenue, Ames, highlighted some parts of the proposed Ordinance that
should be re-worked. One of those is that rental property owners believe that owner-occupied properties
should be held to the same standards. Ms. Orngard noted that she, personally, believes it is ok to have
different exterior property standards for rental property. The second item is the use of the term
“vermin.” She believes that word is objectionable and seems designed to override reason by eliciting
outright revulsion and makes people think of rats and Black Plaque. She believes more precise terms
should be used; i.e., mice, tree squirrels, rabbits, other types of wildlife that are part of a natural
environment. Ms. Orngard said the third thing that she questioned was trees that hang over the right-of-
way. The requirement of ten feet over the sidewalk seems high to her considering that bikes are not
supposed to be ridden on sidewalks. Also, she pointed out that, according to the Iowa Department of
Natural Resources, Iowa has one of the most altered landscapes in the world and the habitat of natural
species (butterflies, bees, and other pollinators) has been decimated; Iowa used to be 76% prairie; now
it is less than 1%. It was also Ms. Orngard’s opinion that having longer grasses helps with climate
change.
Joe Lakowski, 5112 Todd Drive, Ames, said he graduated from Iowa State University with a bachelor’s
degree in Horticulture and worked in that field for a year and one-half before returning to Ames. He
commented that he does not own property, but hopes to one day. Mr. Lakowski noted that his main
concern was with how vague the proposed Ordinance is, especially the 12-inch height policy He
commented that Iowa used to be primarily grasses, now it is filled with pesticides. Mr. Lakowski
shared that he understands the need to not create visibility issues, but people should be allowed to plant
in their front yards. He commented that he is big proponent of community gardens.
Mayor Haila closed public input.
The meeting recessed at 8:12 p.m. and reconvened at 8:21 p.m.
9
Council Member Martin pointed out that the regulations regarding what is a junk and a non-junk car
are actually in current City of Ames Ordinances; they are not new. Building Official VanMeeteren
clarified that staff wanted to bring it to the Council’s attention to ensure that the Council still wanted
that included. Mr. Martin noted that the Council has not voted on including any of the proposed
regulations in a new Ordinance; however, some of the items that appear to have caught the public’s
attention are already in an Ordinance.
Mr. Martin asked to know the rules about bicycles riding on sidewalks. Council Member Beatty-Hansen
answered that it is legal for people to ride on sidewalks unless posted as being prohibited as long as
they do not exceed ten miles-per-hour. City Attorney Mark Lambert concurred saying that bicycles
are generally allowed on sidewalks with very few exceptions (Main Street, Duff to Clark; Grand
Avenue, and on parts of Lincoln Way, Hayward, and Welch).
Council Member Beatty-Hansen asked about something she had seen on the survey regarding pushing
snow onto the street. Ms. VanMeeteren answered that she had been told by the City’s Operations
Manager that once a street has been cleared and people purposely push a lot of snow back onto the
street, the City has to send a truck out to re-plow the street before it melts and re-freezes. According
to the Operations Manager, there are some people who do it repeatedly and the City would like a way
to talk to those people and explain that that is not allowed by Ordinance and they can’t do it anymore.
Council Member Betcher asked for clarification whether it was a problem with plows pushing the snow
back on the street or is it from snowblowing and shoveling. Answering, Ms. VanMeeteren said it was
from people snowblowing and shoveling and with those plowing large parking lots of apartment
complexes who are pushing the snow from those areas onto the street, where it then re-freezes and
becomes a safety issue. With every snow event that the City has had, the City has had to send trucks
back out to re-plow the street because of these issues.
City Manager Schainker noted that there is an extensive definition of junked vehicles under Section
30.2.
Council Member Corrieri reiterated that the proposed Ordinance was intentionally left vague since this
is the very beginning of the process, this workshop is the starting point. It is important for the Council
to listen to the community and the community members to listen to one other.
Council Member Betcher shared her belief that the public input process was working and doing what
it is supposed to do; she has appreciated the comments and suggestions. She believes the goal is to find
something that works for the community with individuals having different values.
Council Member Gartin commented that some people don’t maintain their property due to a mental
health issue, depression, or because they are physically disabled and asked how staff would respond
to that type of situation. Ms. VanMeeteren shared that the City does have those types of situations.
The City has great mental health resource, and when staff recognizes those issues, they reach out to
those resources, one of which is the City’s Mental Health Advocate, who then, in turn, reaches out to
the person. The Codes Liaison also meets with the property owner and tries to help them.
Mr. Gartin noted that no one spoke specifically about commercial properties. He asked staff to address
10
how the proposed Ordinance would impact lower-tier commercial properties. Building Official
VanMeeteren noted staff does hope that they will be able to apply some of the ordinances to some
commercial properties, i.e., primarily those that are vacant. It might be an option to specify the type of
commercial property, e.g., vacant abandoned properties.
Council Member Gartin shared his concerns about how the proposed ordinance will impact lower-
income persons and properties. He said he doesn’t have the answers, but he would like to come up with
a dynamic approach to set aside funds. If there are models of other communities that have done similar
programs, he would like the Council to be made aware which ones. Council Member Beatty-Hansen
said that she would like to pursue some type of grant program; perhaps on a point-based system. She
also shared that perhaps if two signatures were required on a complaint, it could hopefully prevent
pitting neighbor against neighbor.
Council Member Junck shared that she would also like the Council to put a lot of thought into ways to
prevent the possibility of future Councils interpreting the Ordinances differently.
Mayor Haila said that the next steps will need to be determined. City Manager Schainker noted that
the Council members should have some time to think about the proposed Ordinance and talk through
the issues that were brought up. The time line has not been determined, and the next meeting to discuss
the proposed Ordinance has not yet been set. Mr. Schainker suggested that the online survey be kept
open for the public to comment. The Mayor noted that there are multiple items that the Council has on
its docket, one of which is the Ames 2040 Plan that the City is needing to finalize.
Mayor Haila commended the community members who spoke; their compassion showed.
DISPOSITIONS OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: Mayor Haila noted that the
Council’s June 11th Non-Agenda Packet had included the following:
1. Request from the Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) to define “temporary” in the City’s
Zoning Ordinance
2. Email from Stefanie Day, who serves as a Sawyer Elementary School Crossing Guard, noting
her safety concerns about the intersection of Ontario and North Dakota
3. Memo from Assistant City Manager Brian Phillips regarding a broadband infrastructure grant
possibility for service to Dartmoor Road.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Betcher, to refer to staff for a memo the request from the ZBA for
a definition of “temporary” to be included in the City’s Zoning Ordinance.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared approved unanimously.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Betcher, to refer to staff for a memo the email from Stefanie Day
regarding safety concerns at the intersection of Ontario and North Dakota..
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared approved unanimously.
11
Mayor Haila noted that the memo from Assistant City Manager Phillips regarding the broadband
infrastructure grant possibility to bring service to Dartmoore Road does not need to be referred ;it
will be taken under advisement.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Council Member Gartin commented that the City of Ames Community
Center has phenomenal recreation facilities, and he encouraged people to check them out.
Council Member Betcher shared that she had attended the Black Faculty and Staff Juneteenth event
last weekend. She noted that there will be another educational opportunity on Juneteenth at the
Ames Farmer’s Market on Main Street on Saturday.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Betcher to adjourn the meeting at 8:48 p.m.
_____________________________________ ____________________________________
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
12
MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA JUNE 24, 2021
The Special Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor John Haila at 11:02
a.m. on the 24th day of June, 2021. As it was impractical for the Mayor and Council Members to
participate in the meeting in person, Mayor Haila and Council Members Gloria Betcher, Bronwyn
Beatty-Hansen, Tim Gartin, Rachel Junck, and David Martin were brought in telephonically.
Council Member Corrieri and ex officio Member Trevor Poundstone were absent.
WELCH AVENUE TREE-TRENCH FENCING: Municipal Engineer Tracy Peterson explained
that the tree trenches have been installed along Welch Avenue. She reminded the Council that they
were engineered to improve stormwater quality and include trees and native plants to aid in treating
the water. After the tree trenches were constructed, the City started receiving feedback about the
safety aspects of the area, particularly for pedestrian safety due to the depth of the boxes. The tree
trenches were designed and constructed to be 2.5' deep from the top of the sides to the soil level in
the bottom of the box. The deepest end is on the north and was also designed to act as benches
where visitors can sit. It was noted that there are no longer picnic tables on Welch Avenue. City
staff and Campustown Action Association (CAA) met and discussed several solutions to the safety
issue. It was pointed out by Ms. Peterson that the tree trenches were funded through a grant from
the Iowa Department of Ag and Land Stewardship (IDALS), so if the City made changes that did
not meet the requirements of the grant, the City would have to repay the grant.
Ms. Peterson introduced Civil Engineer Hafiz Ibrahim, who is the project manager on this project.
Mr. Ibrahim reviewed the options that had been explored, as follows:
1. Install grates over the trenches.
2. Install decorative fencing around the trenches.
According to Mr. Ibrahim, multiple issues would be encountered with the installation of grates. He
said that, due to the size of the trenches, there is no standard grate that would fit. The grates would
have to be custom-made; the cost would be almost triple that of the cost of fencing and would cause
a substantial delay in delivery. In addition, in order to keep the debris from passing through the
grates, the mesh spacing would have to be extremely close, which would inhibit the growth and
viability of the planted material in the trenches. The grates would also have to be strong enough to
allow people to walk across and stand on them. Ms. Peterson pointed out that the planted material
in the trenches needs to have some sunlight to grow. The plants are meant to filter the storm water,
and if that feature is lost, it would jeopardize the state funding.
Mr. Ibrahim advised that staff and the CAA had agreed that ornamental fencing around each trench
would be an attractive addition that would prevent pedestrians from falling into the box. He listed
the following benefits from that approach:
1. There is a standard size ornamental fence that can be ordered that matches the fencing in other
nearby locations.
2. A gate can be added, which would provide easy access for maintenance and cleanup.
3. Fencing will not inhibit the growth of the plant material in the trench.
4. The installation of ornamental fencing would not change the intent of the grant, so the grant
funding would not be jeopardized.
It was noted by Mr. Ibrahim that the City has to place the order now in order to get the fencing
installed before the students return in the fall. In addition to that, if not ordered now, the price could
continue to increase. Installation costs could increase as well. Director Joiner stated that if the
Council opts to direct staff to move forward with fencing, it will be five or six weeks before the
fencing is received. It will take an additional two weeks to install.
Public Works Director John Joiner noted that Council Member Gartin had found some examples of
grates; however, those are a much smaller unit than what is needed for this project. He reiterated
that what is needed for this project is much larger and will have to be custom-designed.
Mayor Haila asked what material would be used to construct the fencing. Mr. Ibrahim stated that
the fencing would be made of commercial-grade steel. He commented that it is believed that the
fencing will withstand the wear that will occur in Campustown.
Maintenance of the tree trenches was discussed. Mr. Joiner advised that City staff had been
maintaining the trenches since their installation. Mr Ibrahim advised that the Campustown Action
Association will be given a key to access the trenches to provide help with maintenance.
Ms. Peterson noted that with the Welch Avenue construction bid, the bid alternate that would have
also awarded trash receptacles, benches, and tree trenches was not awarded. The trash receptacles
were ordered, have been received, and are being installed by City staff. According to Ms. Peterson,
the contractor planted the plants; however, many did not survive. The contractor has been replacing
the plants, and more will be added. She said that staff will continue to monitor the health of the trees
and plantings. Mr. Ibrahim advised that the sedges (plants) will grow to be two to three feet tall.
They are planted in seven of the nine trenches.
A concern was expressed by Council Member Martin that there are gaps in some of the wells. Ms.
Peterson stated that during the first couple of years when it rains, the soil will naturally compact.
Staff will also add soil.
Mayor Haila asked if the fencing will be attached inside or outside of the trenches. Ms. Peterson
replied that the fencing would be installed inside of the trenches. The area designed to serve as a
bench will still be able to function as it was intended.
Council Member Martin noted that Mr. Ibrahim had stated that it would be possible to install a gate
in the fencing around each trench and asked where that would be located. Mr. Ibrahim answered,
if it is decided to go that route, they would be installed on the street side.
2
Council Member Gartin commented that he was not a big fan of the fencing and asked staff to back
off the wall of fences and consider an alternative. He stated that Council is working to improve the
area and make it more attractive. In his opinion, the fencing would detract from the appearance.
Municipal Engineer Peterson pointed out that the trenches collect the water, but do not in themselves
actually preserve the water quality. She reiterated that the grant was received to improve the water
quality, so if the scope changes, the City would have to pay back the grant. Also, flooding on Welch
would not be accommodated. Mr. Gartin said he does share in the goal of having trees and creating
an urban landscape. He also acknowledged the added benefit of storm water management with the
tree trenches; however, aesthetics is also important. Concerning the issue of safety, he will defer to
the expertise of others to determine what would work. Concerns have been expressed that the tree
trenches will become an area to deposit trash, which would further detract from the appearance of
Welch Avenue.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen commented that all of the trash receptacles have not yet been
placed, but once added, the amount of trash going into the wells will be a lot less. She believes that
the trash receptacles are being added this week, and it is hoped that will cut down on the amount of
trash thrown into the trenches substantially.
Council Member Gartin asked who would be in charge of maintaining the trenches and what is the
proposed frequency of maintaining. Ms. Peterson advised that maintenance is and will be performed
through a partnership between the City and CAA. Staff will continue to monitor the situation;
perhaps more receptacles will be added. Trash thrown on the street can actually go down the storm
sewer, into Lake LaVerne, and eventually, into the watershed. Mr. Gartin commented that trash that
comes from the night before will still be thrown inside the tree trenches. Mr. Joiner said that the
City crew that goes out once a week to take care of the flowers can continue to remove the trash
from the tree trenches. The trash cans will be placed close to the tree trenches. Mr. Gartin reiterated
his thoughts that it is a given that there will be trash in the tree trenches no matter when or how often
it gets picked up.
It was also stated by Mr. Gartin that he is not “married” to having flowers inside of the trenches if
the reasoning behind not using grates is because there would not be enough sunlight for the flowers
to grow. He wants the Welch Avenue project to be attractive and well-liked.
Council Member Betcher noted that the Council can’t lose sight of the timeliness of the project. She
stated that her main concern is that the trenches are safe for everyone who is walking in
Campustown.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen said if the mesh is changed inside the trench to a small enough net
to catch the trash, it might be a threat to wildlife. She recommended that they start with the
placement of trash receptacles near the fencing and see how that goes before any changes are made.
Council Member Junck asked how long it will take for the sedges to grow to maturity. Mr. Ibrahim
answered that it will take about a year. According to Mr. Ibrahim, the plants were chosen to best
3
treat the water quality. He also noted that when the sedges grow, any trash that would be deposited
inside the fencing around the trenches will land on top of the plants.
City Manager Schainker noted that no matter what design was chosen, it won’t alter people’s
behavior: People will continue to throw their trash outside of the trash cans and sometimes it will
end up in the tree trenches. Ms. Peterson pointed out that the trash receptacle design for this project
was specific; the others were such that pedestrians could just put their trash on top of the receptacle.
Mayor Haila again questioned the composition of the fencing and its ability to withstand abuse. Mr.
Ibrahim confirmed that the fencing will be made of steel and hollow in the middle. The Mayor
commented that it did not look to him that it will be strong enough and asked if the vendor was
aware of the types of abuse that the fencing would be subject to in Campustown. Mr. Ibrahim stated
that the fencing will be commercial-grade and will be bolted to the inside of the trench. City
Manager Schainker commented that there is no guarantee from the vendor that the fencing will hold
up to the kind of treatment that it might receive in Campustown.
Municipal Engineer Peterson brought the Council’s attention to Page 15 of the Council Action Form,
which showed a picture of the fence that was installed for a new restaurant just south of Cy’s Roost.
The fence is very similar to that which is being proposed for the tree trenches. She shared that a
similar one was also installed at 200 Welch a few years ago.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to direct staff to install a 3' ornamental fence around
the tree trenches on Welch Avenue by contracting with The Door and Fence Store of Ames, Iowa,
at a cost of $21,958, with funding to come from the available funds in the project budget.
Council Member Gartin stated that he is concerned about the quality of steel as well as the design
of the fencing. He asked if there was any possibility of upgrading the quality of fencing material.
Mayor Haila replied that this is a time-sensitive project. The manufacturer is more than likely not
interested in upgrading the material.
Council Member Martin noted that there is a threat to the grant funding, which was in the amount
of $100,000, if the City sways too much from the design. He stated that he supports the fencing for
now, but is concerned whether it is good enough in terms of structure as well as aesthetics. Mr.
Martin said he was hoping for something with a more grandeur design given the other improvements
that have been made in the Campustown area. He hopes that staff pays close attention and would
be willing to replace the fencing with another material in the future if need be. In addition, there
should be a plan for having trash picked up every day until those who are picking it up that say that
the amount of trash has lessened to the extent that it doesn’t have to be every day.
Council Member Betcher also stated that she was skeptical about the fencing material. She
commented that Council Member Martin is correct about the investment in the area. Ms. Betcher
noted that the City needs to be conscious of doing things right, but, in this case, the City also has a
need to do things quickly. The fencing, alone, is not deterring the deposits of trash, which causes
4
a problem with storm water management. Mayor Haila pointed out that trash will be in the trenches
after it rains as it will wash in there.
Vote on Motion: 4-1. Voting aye: Beatty-Hansen, Betcher, Junck, Martin. Voting nay: Gartin.
Motion declared carried.
Moved by Martin, seconded by Betcher, to ask staff to come up with a strategy for daily
maintenance (trash pick up) for at least the rest of the calendar year unless canceled because it is no
longer warranted.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Ms Betcher stated that if daily trash pick up is not needed, the schedule can be changed.
TRANSFORMER OIL RECONDITIONING AND REPAIR: Electric Services Director Donald
Kom stated this item is coming to Council because the amount of the bid is over $50,000. The bid
is for oil reconditioning and repair of a transformer for the Electric Services Department. The work
needs to be completed as oil testing has revealed that there is elevated moisture in the oil. Normally,
an inhibitor is added to transformer oil to keep moisture out; however, testing has revealed that this
inhibitor is gone. Moisture in the transformer will lead to deterioration, which could lead to
catastrophic failure. There is also oil migrating between the main tank and the Load-Tap changer
tank that needs to be addressed. According to Director Kom, this project is time-sensitive because
this transformer is required to supply power to Unit No. 8 for start-up. Electric Services is striving
to complete Unit No. 8 start-up prior to July 23 to meet MISO deadlines.
Mr. Kom advised that on June 11, 2021, a Request for Quotation (RFQ) was issued to 103 vendors
for oil reconditioning and repair of the transformer. Two bids were received. Staff reviewed the bids
and concluded that the apparent low bid was unacceptable as it did not include the costs of replacing
barrier boards or seals. The City would need to purchase and receive those items before repair,
which could delay the project. In addition, the quote provided did not include draining the oil out
of the tank and did not create a vacuum to draw out the moisture. The quote from the alternative
bidder, although offering a higher bid cost, did include all the necessary work that City staff had
solicited in the RFQ.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-384 awarding a contract
to Maxima of Shawnee Mission, Kansas (dba North American Substation Services, LLC, of
Alamonte Springs, Florida) for transformer oil reconditioning and repair in accordance with the bid
in the amount of $56,335.50 (inclusive of Iowa sales tax).
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. 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 Betcher commented that in the time between now and
5
the budget season, she would like the Council to consider how to fund the CAA efforts to improve
the Campustown area.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Betcher to adjourn the meeting at 12:01 p.m
_____________________________________ ____________________________________
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
6
REPORT OF
CONTRACT CHANGE ORDERS
General Description Change Original Contract Total of Prior Amount this Change Contact
Public Works South Grand Avenue
Extension
Extension
Pavement Improvements
(14th Street to 15th Street)
Parking Lot Replacement Extend to
May 31, 2021
Parking Lot Replacement
Pavers (Clark to Burnett)
Period:
Item No. 4
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE
AMES CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION
AMES, IOWA JUNE 24, 2021
The Regular Meeting of the Ames Civil Service Commission was called to order by Chairperson
Mike Crum at 8:15 a.m. on June 24, 2021. As it was impractical for the Commission members to
attend in person, Commission Chairperson Mike Crum and Commission Members Harold Pike and
Kim Linduska were brought in telephonically.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MAY 27, 2021: Moved by Pike, seconded by Linduska, to
approve the Minutes of the May 27, 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 Entry-Level Applicants:
Chief of Police Geoff Huff 89
John Justiniano 75*
*Includes Preference Points
Environmental Instrument & Control Tech Salvatore Vigil 79
Police Records Clerk Alexandra Burken 83
Shelby Esman 83
Paige Miller 82
Shelby Booms 78
Amelia Knuth 76
Theresia Buchholz 75
Brittany McCumber 71
Vote on Motion: 3-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
CERTIFICATION OF PROMOTIONAL-LEVEL APPLICANTS: Moved by Linduska,
seconded by Pike, to certify the following individuals to the Ames City Council as Promotional-Level
Applicants:
Utility Maintenance Foreman: Zach Landhuis 81
Kendel Miller 78
John Lloyd 73
Vote on Motion: 3-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
COMMENTS: Chairperson Crum asked Human Resources Director Bethany Jorgenson if there was
any indication that a hearing before the Commission would be needed in the near future. Ms.
Jorgenson replied that she was not aware of any possible Civil Service cases being filed.
The Commission received an update from Director Jorgenson on the Police Officer recruitment. She
stated that it is anticipated that Human Resources will be starting a new Police Officer recruitment
in the near future. Ms. Jorgenson explained that the Commission had certified 11 Entry-Level
candidates on May 27, 2021, and eight Conditional Offers of Employment were made. Two of those
candidates have since withdrawn from the process because they have accepted offers elsewhere, and
it is unknown at this time if any of the remaining six will accept the City’s Conditional Offers.
Commission Member Pike asked how many vacant Police Officer positions currently exist. Director
Jorgenson said there are eight open Police Officer positions. Mr. Pike questioned why there were
so many. Ms. Jorgenson answered that there had been promotions within the Department,
retirements, and through attrition. She further explained that some officers have decided that they do
not want to be a Police Officer any longer and have pursued other careers.
The next Regular Meeting of the Ames Civil Service Commission is scheduled for July 22, 2021, at
8:15 a.m.
ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 8:26 a.m.
__________________________________ _______________________________________
Michael R. Crum, Chairperson Diane R. Voss, City Clerk
2
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License or Permit Type
License or Permit Type Length of License Requested
Special Class C Liquor License 12 Month
Tentative Effective Date Tentative Expiration Date
2021-07-05 2022-07-04
Privileges/ Sub-Permits Information
Privileges
Outdoor Service 7 Sunday Sales
Sub-Permits
Please provide a description of the area you intend to use for the Outdoor Service Privilege and
explain its relationship to the currently-licensed premises
This is a patio directly
attached to the east
side of our building.
We will not be serving
out there, customers
j
Item No. 8
will pay at the counter
and can carry their
beverage out there
themselves.
Premises Information
Business Information
*(required) Name of Legal Entity (The name of
the individual, partnership, corporation or
other similar legal entity that is receiving the
income from the alcoholic beverages sold)
BURGIE'S COFFEE CO. NORTH, L.L.C.
Indicate how the business will be operated
Limited Liability Company
*(required) Business Number of Secretary of
State
617410
Premises Information
Address of Premises:
Address or location
*(required) Name of Business (D/B/A)
Burgie's North Ames
*(required) Federal Employer ID#
85-0812292
Tentative Expiration Date
Jul4,2022
[ 3701 Stange Road,Ames,lowa,Story
Search by a location name or address to automatically populate the
address fields below (optional)
*(required) Premises Street
3701 Stange Road
*(required) Premises City
Ames
*(required) Premises Zip/Postal Code
50010
*(required) Local Authority
City of Ames
Is the capacity of your establishment over
200?
No
Equipped with tables and seats to
accommodate a minimum of 25?
Yes
# of Bathrooms:
2+
Premises Suite/Apt Number
Premises State
Iowa
Premises County
Story
Control of Premises
Own
Are other liquor, wine or beer businesses
accessible from the interior of your premises?
No
*(required)# of Floors:
1
Premises Type
Coffee Shop
Does your premises conform to all local and
state health, fire and building laws and
regulation?
Yes
Contact Information
*(required) Contact Name
Andrew Burgason
*(required) Email Address
andrew@windmillcoffee.com
D Same as Premises Address
Mailing Address:
Address or location
* * (required) Business
(required) Exlenflbone
(515)451-2658
* * (required) Phone
(required) Ex1en�!9fs) 451_2658
[" 2400 University Boulevard,Ames,lowa,Story "J
Search by a location name or address to automatically populate the
address fields below (optional)
Mailing Street
2400 University Boulevard
Mailing City
Ames
Mailing Suite/Apt Number
Mailing State
Iowa
Mailing Zip/Postal Code Mailing County
50010 Story
Business Demographics Information
Andrew
Burgason
Position: Owner/
Operator
SSN: XXX-XX-9383
US Citizen: Yes
Ownership: 60%
DOB: 1985-10-09
Criminal History Information
Have you ever been convicted of a felony
offense in Iowa or any other state of the United
States? If you selected "yes", please list your
violations below
No
Have any of the owners listed in the ownership
screen ever been charged, arrested, indicted,
convicted or received a deferred judgment for
any violation of any state, county, city, federal
or foreign law? All information shall be
reported regardless of the disposition, even if
dismissed or expunged. Include pending
charges. DO NOT include traffic violations,
except those that are alcohol related. If you
selected "yes", please list your violations
below.
No
Dramshop Verification Information
Dram Shop
Society Insurance
Local Authority Information
Outdoor Service Area Approved / Denied
Sketch on File
Extension *(required) Daytime Phone
-for Local Authority
Lease, Final Sales Contract, or Warranty
Deed on File
Premise's Address Correct? Premises Zoned Properly?
Fire Inspection Completed? Health Inspection Completed?
Was a DCI background check run? Previous License Number for this Location
*(required) Local Authority Email Address Comments
Amount Owed to Local Authority
337.50
Document Upload Information
DOCUMENT NAME
Deed/Final Sales Contract or Lease
UPLOADED DOCUMENTS
Lease Agreement.P-df
UPLOADED DOCUMENTS
DOCUMENT NAME
Sketch
UPLOADED DOCUMENTS
BURGIE'S SKETCH UP.P-df
UPLOADED DOCUMENTS
Smart Choice
515.239.5133 non-emergency
Administration
fax
To: Mayor John Haila and Ames City Council Members
From: Lieutenant Heath Ropp, Ames Police Department
Date: June 14th, 2021
Subject: Beer Permits & Liquor License Renewal Reference City Council Agenda
The Council agenda for July 13th, 2021 includes beer permits and liquor license renewals
for:
•Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar (105 Chestnut) - Class C Liquor License with
Sunday Sales
•AJ’s Liquor II (2515 Chamberlain) - Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit,
Class C Permit (Carry out) & Sunday Sales
•HuHot Mongolian Grill (703 S Duff Ave Suite #105) - Special Class C Liquor with Sunday
Sales
•Welch Ave Station (207 Welch Ave) – Class C Liquor License with Sunday Sales
•Courtyard by Marriott Ames (311 S 17th St) – Class B Liquor, Class B Wine Permit,
Catering, 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.
•Sportsman’s Lounge (123 Main St) - Class C Liquor License with Living Quarters &
Sunday Sales
A review of police records for the past 12 months found one liquor law violation for the
above business. During a compliance check on March 26th, 2021 an employee sold
alcohol to a minor and was cited accordingly. A follow-up compliance check was
completed on June 10th, 2021 and no violations were recorded.
The Police Department will continue to monitor the above location by conducting regular
foot patrols, bar checks and by educating the bar staff through training and quarterly
meetings. The Ames Police Department recommends license renewal for the above
business.
Item No. 9
ITEM # __ 10 _
DATE 07-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: FALL 2021 COMMISSION ON THE ARTS (COTA) SPECIAL GRANT
BACKGROUND:
On June 7, the Commission on the Arts (COTA) finalized its recommendations for the
Fall 2021 Special Project Grant. One grant request was received in the amount of
$1,000. COTA has $16,341 in funding available for Fall 2021 and Spring 2022 Special
Project grants.
COTA reviewed the grant request and recommended approval as indicated below.
Copies of a contract were sent to the awarded organization for approval and have been
returned. The contract is now presented for City Council’s approval.
ORGANIZATION REQUEST PROJECT AWARD
Story Theater Company $1,000 Frozen, Jr. $1,000
Total $1,000 $1,000
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the COTA special project grant contract as recommended.
2. Refer the contract to COTA for further information.
3. Do not approve the contract.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Special project grants help advance participation in and awareness of the arts in the
Ames community, which is a key goal of the Commission on the Arts. COTA has
reviewed the request and has recommended the approval of the contract now
presented to the City Council.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
ITEM # ___11___
DATE 07-13-21_
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: ENCROACHMENT PERMIT FOR SIGN ON BUILDING AT 400 MAIN
STREET
BACKGROUND:
ReMax Precision is seeking approval to attach a sign to its building that will encroach
over the right of way. The building is located at 400 Main Street. The sign is 10.5 inches
in height and 131.76 inches in width, for a total of 9.61 square feet.
Chapter 22.3(3) of the Ames Municipal Code requires approval of an Encroachment
Permit Agreement by the City Council before the Permit can be issued. By signing the
Agreement, the applicant and owner agree to hold harmless the City of Ames against
any loss or liability as a result of the encroachment, to submit a certificate of liability
insurance that protects the City in case of an accident, and to pay the fee for the
Encroachment Permit. The applicant and owner also understand that this approval may
be revoked at any time by the City Council.
The fee for this permit was calculated at $25, and the full amount has been received by
the City Clerk’s Office along with the certificate of liability insurance. The Encroachment
Permit application is attached.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the Encroachment Permit for a sign at 400 Main Street.
2. Deny the request.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The proposed encroachment conforms to the requirements of Municipal Code. The
permit application, fee, and certificate of liability insurance have been received and are
in order.
It is therefore the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
ITEM#: 12
DATE: 07-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: 2021 EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT
BACKGROUND:
On June 8, 2021, the Ames Police Department received notice that it is eligible for grant
funds through the 2019 Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of
Justice Assistance Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program.
Grant funds can be used for state and local initiatives, technical assistance, training,
personnel, equipment, supplies, contractual support, and information systems for criminal
justice, as well as research and evaluation activities that will improve or enhance law
enforcement programs related to criminal justice.
Because the Story County Sheriff provides jail services for the county, the grant
conditions require that the Sheriff participate in the grant application for funding under this
JAG program. Therefore, it would be appropriate for the City to enter into a Memorandum
of Understanding with Story County for acquisition and use of the funds.
Total funding potentially available to the Ames Police Department and the Story County
Sheriff’s Office through this grant is $15,932.00. This year the two law enforcement
agencies propose to use the funds to continue a project which enhances the
capabilities and expertise in mental health and wellness. Additionally, a portion of
the funds would be used to replace outdated and malfunctioning department
Tasers.
If awarded, grant funds will be used by the City to:
1. Support an extension of the concepts of the City’s Healthy4Life program targeting
employee health improvements and focusing these concepts specifically on the
24/7 law enforcement environment. The project increases contact between
participating members and a coach, expands the scope of the interaction to include
work related stress and provide professional direction to achieve health and
wellness goals.
2. Two individuals of the Ames Police Peer Support Team will attend a national
mental health crisis intervention conference designed to provide advanced training
on issues affecting mental health. These individuals will also provide support to
help advance the Officer Wellness Project as well as provide support to individual
law enforcement personnel who need assistance in coping with demanding duties
of the law enforcement profession.
2
3. The Ames Police Peer Support Team will continue to partner with a local mental
health provider to assist the department in supporting employees in work related
stress and physical and emotional wellness. The provider would act a consultant
to the team during team meetings and critical incident debrief sessions. The
provider would also facilitate individual wellness sessions with team members and
other staff who wish to improve emotional wellness.
4. Purchase six Tasers (including holsters, battery packs, and cartridges) to replace
outdated and malfunctioning equipment.
The grant requires that the Mayor sign a certifications and assurances document
indicating that the City will abide by the grant terms and conditions. There is no monetary
match required for this grant.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. A. Approve the Memorandum of Understanding with Story County to apply for
grant funding under the 2021 Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs,
Bureau of Justice Assistance Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant
(JAG) Program
B. Authorize grant application.
2. Do not approve the Memorandum of Understanding with Story County and do not
authorize the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program
grant application.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
JAG funds have been used productively during the past few years to purchase equipment
and provide training. The program has proven to be a valuable source of funds for special
purchases and programs.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
ITEM#: 13
DATE: 07-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: ARBOR STREET - ELECTRIC UTILITY EASEMENT ON STATE OF
IOWA PROPERTY
BACKGROUND:
Electric Services is planning to install a buried electrical line along the south side of Arbor
Street between State Avenue and S. Sheldon Avenue during summer 2021. This line will
provide an alternate circuit to serve electric customers in the area southwest of the Iowa
State University campus to stay ahead of projected electric load growth in the area.
Due to the distance between State Avenue and S. Sheldon Avenue (approx. 1,200 ft), a
pull box will need to be buried near the middle of the line. The pull box will enable Electric
Services crews to install the new line in shorter sections to avoid damaging the line.
Multiple buried telephone lines on the south side of Arbor Street prevent the placement
of the pull box in public right-of-way. The Iowa State University Arboretum is located on
the south side of the Arbor Street right-of-way and would provide a suitable location for
the installation of the pull box. To accomplish this, the City and ISU must approve an
agreement for a 15-foot by 30-foot easement.
Staff from Iowa State University Facilities Planning & Management is supportive of the
placement of the pull box in the ISU Arboretum site. On June 2, 2021, the Iowa Board of
Regents approved the easement in exchange for $1 in consideration.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the Electric Utility Easement on State of Iowa property for the installation
of an electrical pull box.
2. Do not approve the Electric Utility Easement on State of Iowa property and direct
Electric Services’ staff to find an alternative location for the electrical pull box.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Electrical load is projected to increase in the area southwest of the Iowa State University
campus. The installation of a buried electric line along Arbor Street will provide Electric
Services with an alternate circuit to maintain quality of service to the area. An easement
on ISU property is required to install a pull box for the project.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as noted above.
ITEM # 14
DATE: 07-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: FLEET REPLACEMENT PROGRAM – BOBCAT COMPACT TRACK
LOADER
BACKGROUND:
Parks and Recreation uses one compact track loader and one rubber-tired utility vehicle
to perform grounds maintenance, dirt work, and snow removal. Both units are Bobcat
brand and share various attachments. These two units are used daily, year-round, and
are indispensable for Park operations. Due to the amount and similarity of the work
performed by these two units it has become apparent the rubber-tired utility vehicle is not
heavy-duty enough. Therefore, a second Bobcat compact track loader is recommended
to replace the utility vehicle. This replacement was scheduled in the FY 2020/21 budget
year.
Bids were solicited for a new Bobcat Compact Track Loader and on June 14, 2021, one
bid was received as follows:
Bidder Make Model Year Bid
Bobcat of Ames
Ames, IA Bobcat T76 T4 2021 $59,442.99
City staff has evaluated the bid and has determined that it meets the City’s specifications
and is acceptable. The existing unit currently has replacement funding accumulated in
the amount of $61,108, which is available to fund this purchase.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Award a contract to Bobcat of Ames, IA for one 2021 Bobcat T76 T4 Compact
Track Loader for $59,442.99.
2. Reject the bid and provide further direction to City staff.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Parks and Recreation staff and the Fleet Director are confident the purchase of the 2021
Bobcat T76 T4 Compact Track Loader will provide the City with exceptional service at the
best price.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
ITEM # ___15__
DATE: 07-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: POWER PLANT DCS HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE UPGRADE –
CHANGE ORDER NO. 1
BACKGROUND:
Electric Services uses a Distributed Control System (DCS) to monitor and operate the
boilers, turbines, generators, and auxiliary equipment located in the Power Plant and at
remote sites. The existing DCS was installed in 2015 during the Natural Gas
Conversion Project. The DCS was supplied and is supported by Emerson Process
Management Power & Water Solutions, Inc. of Pittsburgh, PA.
On January 26, 2021, the City Council approved a contract with Emerson Process
Management, Power & Water Solutions, Inc. of Pittsburgh, PA to upgrade the DCS
system in the amount of $422,803 (including $2,000 in freight). Since Emerson Process
Management Power & Water Solutions, Inc. was not licensed to collect sales taxes for
the State of Iowa, the City was responsible to pay $29,456.21 in applicable Iowa sales
taxes directly to the state. This brought the total cost to $450,259.21.
Three control systems in the Power Plant (Water Treatment, Electrostatic Precipitator,
and Diesel Fire Pump) are currently operated as individual systems, separated from the
DCS. These three systems cannot be operated from the control room at the Power
Plant and monitoring is very limited. The W ater Treatment system is also very limited in
its ability to automate chemical dosing, resulting in vulnerability to all the water systems
in the Power Plant including the Boilers, Cooling Towers, and Internal Cooling Water
systems.
When the Power Plant DCS Hardware and Software Upgrade project was planned
and awarded, staff did not include the Water Treatment, Electrostatic Precipitator,
and Diesel Fire Pump controls with the project, since these three systems do not
integrate with the DCS. Instead, it was planned to update these three systems
separately as part of a routine maintenance project.
After awarding the Power Plant DCS project to Emerson, staff began the process
of researching options to update these three separate systems. As a result, it
became apparent that the updates would be very complex and costlier than a
typical maintenance project. Additionally, any update that could be undertaken
would still cause these control systems to be separate from the Power Plant’s
DCS, resulting in reduced ability to monitor and respond to system conditions.
During the planning and testing phases of the current DCS hardware and
software upgrade project, staff consulted with Emerson about the feasibility of
2
integrating these three systems into the DCS. Staff has determined that
incorporating a change order into the current DCS project would be the simplest
and most cost-effective approach.
The cost to do so would be an increase of the contract amount by $175,855, plus
$12,309.85 in sales taxes, for a total cost of $188,164.85. Since Emerson Process
Management Power & Water Solutions, Inc. is not licensed to collect sales taxes for the
State of Iowa, the City would pay up to $12,309.85 in applicable Iowa sales taxes
directly to the state.
The original Capital Improvements Plan funding for this project has been
exhausted and the additional funding for this change order will come from the
Unit 7 Turbine/Generator Overhaul project funds. The Unit 7 Turbine/Generator
Overhaul has been completed and there is $373,311 in funding remaining in that
project.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve Change Order No. 1 to Emerson Process Management, Power & Water
Solutions, Inc. of Pittsburgh, PA in the amount of $175,855.00. The City will pay
applicable sales tax up to $12,309.85 directly to the State of Iowa.
2. Do not approve the requested change order.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
It is in the City’s best interest to perform the integration of these three systems during
this current project to improve system simplicity, maintenance, and reliability. It will also
avoid additional cost and Power Plant down time if performed now instead of performing
as a separate project in the future. The most effective way to complete this system
integration is for the existing DCS supplier to perform the work.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
ITEM # ___16__
DATE 07-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: AUTHORIZE ADDITIONAL REPAIRS TO WATER POLLUTION
CONTROL FACILITY METHANE ENGINE NO. 2
BACKGROUND:
The Water Pollution Control (WPC) Facility recently replaced one of its methane engine
generators (MG #1) with a boiler. As part of this project, Waldinger Corporation, the
general contractor, was also tasked with upgrading the controls on the two remaining
methane engine generators (MG #2 and MG #3).
On January 12, 2021, a catastrophic event occurred to MG #2 making it no longer
operable. During the controls upgrade, a subcontractor to Waldinger was observed
multiple times operating MG #2 engine without first notifying City staff as required by the
contract. There were several events that occurred when the engine was under the control
of the subcontractor that staff believes were a direct cause of the failure of MG #2.
Staff has attempted to resolve the issues with the general contractor and get repairs made
at no cost to the City. The general contractor and its subcontractor do not agree that the
repairs are their responsibility. The damage claim will take time to resolve. Delaying
the repairs will result in ongoing electrical demand charges from the rural
cooperative that serves WPC.
Staff utilized the rapid needs procurement process allowed by the City’s
Purchasing Policies and Procedures and directed Interstate PowerSystems to
begin repairs on the engine. Interstate PowerSystems was already under contract for
routine maintenance on the standby engine at WPC, and the company has a track record
of being very cost competitive on this type of engine work.
Interstate PowerSystems initially determined that two of the engine’s cylinders were
damaged and needed to be repaired. The original repair costs of $24,253 were able to
be approved using the department’s purchasing authority. During the repairs, additional
damaged components were discovered which required a cost increase of $7,070. This
pushed the total dollar amount over the departmental threshold and the cost increase was
approved by the City Manager’s Office.
After making the repairs to the two damaged cylinders, an operational check of the engine
was performed before placing it back in service. It was discovered that two additional
cylinders would not pass a compression test and required additional repair work.
Interstate PowerSystems has proposed repairs to the two additional defective
cylinders for $22,264. The additional work brings the total purchase order amount
to $53,587, which requires Council approval.
2
The funding for the repairs will be from the CIP budget for the Methane Engine Generator
Replacement Project. The project budget and estimated project expenses are shown
below.
Authorized Funding
Budgeted in FY 2018/19 CIP $ 1,515,000
Savings from Structural Rehab (reallocated in Fall 2019 amendments) 325,000
Savings from Primary Clarifier Drive Replacement Project 124,000
Total Available Funding $ 1,964,000
Revised Project Expenses
Engineering
Design $ 165,000
Bidding and Construction 89,200
Amendment 1 (Additional Construction Services) 15,000
Construction
Original Contract 1,554,270
Change Order 1 (Electric Peak Shaving) (12,000)
Change Order 2 (New Starter Bucket) 6,263
Misc. Project Parts/Supplies 5,798
Laboratory Testing Services 711
Permits 100
MG #2 Cylinder Repair
Original cost estimate 24,253
Additional parts and labor 7,070
Additional Repairs (This Action) 22,264
Total Estimated Expense $ 1,877,929
It is the opinion of staff and Interstate PowerSystems that the damage appears to
be catastrophic in nature, and not simply “old age” failure as Waldinger’s
subcontractor is asserting. Staff believes the damage is a result of the contractor’s
negligent operation of the equipment in a manner that was contrary to the
requirements of the specifications.
W&PC staff is working with the City Attorney to pursue a damage claim against the
general contractor. Staff is withholding payment to Waldinger in an amount equal
to the total damages caused by the contractor (estimated to be in the $150,000+/-
range for the engine damage and the increased engineering and utilities costs
resulting from the inoperable engine since January) plus the normal five percent
retainage and twice the value of remaining uncompleted punch list work.
3
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Authorize additional repairs to Water Pollution Control Facility Methane Engine No.
2 by Interstate PowerSystems of Altoona, IA, in the additional amount of $22,264.
2. Do not authorize the additional repairs until such time as the damage claim against
the general contractor has been resolved. This could result in increased
operational costs to the WPC Facility as a result of the lost ability for peak shaving
on the electrical utility bills.
3. Do not authorize any additional repairs to MG #2. This will result in a permanent
decrease in the WPC Facility’s ability to generate electricity from the renewable
methane produced at the facility.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The methane engine is important to the facility by generating electricity, which in turn
reduces the energy that must be purchased from the electric utility to operate the facility.
The contractor and subcontractor who were operating the equipment prior to the failure
do not feel they have any responsibility in the damage. Resolving this disagreement will
take time. It is important to return the engine to service as soon as possible to avoid
increasing the operating costs of the WPC facility.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
ITEM # 17
DATE: 07-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: AWARD CONTRACT FOR NORTH RIVER VALLEY PARK
PLAYGROUND REPLACEMENT
BACKGROUND:
This project is to renovate the existing playground structure adjacent to the Hawthorne
Shelter on the north side of the athletic field in North River Valley Park, 725 E. 13th St.
The playground structure was installed in the park in 2000 and has reached the end of its
useful life. The typical lifespan of playground structures is 20 years and funds for
replacement are included annually in the Capital Improvements Plan (CIP).
Staff solicited written proposals from qualified playground equipment representatives
asking for proposals that offered different features that are not as prevalent in the
playgrounds currently in the parks. Staff received five proposals and evaluated them
based on the following criteria: safety; features (including balancing, spinning, sliding,
climbing and swinging components); site compatibility; accessibility and inclusiveness;
physical, cognitive, and emotional/social development; cost vs. relative play value; unique
play features and aesthetics compared to existing structures within the park and the
overall park system.
Vendors were provided a budget for equipment not to exceed $55,000. The five vendors
that submitted proposals are shown below in order of how they were evaluated with 1
being the highest:
VENDOR BID
1. Boland Recreation, Marshalltown, Iowa $54,085
2. Outdoor Recreation Products, Omaha, Nebraska $55,000
3. Commercial Recreation Specialists, Verona, Wisconsin $55,000
4. Park Planet, Red Bluff, California $55,000
5. American Playground Company, Sioux Falls, South Dakota $51,044
Based on the review of the proposals, Boland Recreation, Marshalltown, Iowa, scored the
highest and the cost of its playground structure including installation is $54,085. The goal
is to have this playground project completed sometime this fall. The playground selected
for North River Valley is show below:
2
The FY 2020/21 Capital Improvements Plan includes $64,750 to replace this playground,
including the playground structure, installation, installation of a two-bay swing, engineered
wood fibers (EWF), and a concrete border.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Award a contract to Boland Recreation, Marshalltown, Iowa, for the North River
Valley Park Playground Replacement Project in the amount of $54,085.
2. Award a contract to another vendor.
3. Do not award a contract.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The residents of Ames continually rate the playgrounds in the parks as good or very good
as part of the annual resident satisfaction survey and the commitment to ensuring
playground structures are safe and enjoyable by the residents is very important. The
current playground has reached its useful life and is ready to be replaced.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council approve
Alternative #1 as stated above.
1
ITEM # 18
DATE: 07-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: AWARD CONTRACT FOR INIS GROVE PARK PLAYGROUND
REPLACEMENT
BACKGROUND:
This project is to renovate the existing playground structure adjacent to Shagbark Shelter
in the northeast part of Inis Grove Park, 2500 Duff Ave. The playground structure and
swing set were installed in the park in 2000 and have reached the end of its useful life.
The typical lifespan of playground structures is 20 years and funds for replacement are
included annually in the Capital Improvements Plan (CIP).
Staff solicited written proposals from qualified playground equipment representatives
asking for proposals that offered different features that are not as prevalent in the
playgrounds currently in the parks. Staff received five proposals and evaluated them
based on the following criteria: safety; features (including balancing, spinning, sliding,
climbing and swinging components); site compatibility; accessibility and inclusiveness;
physical, cognitive, and emotional/social development; cost vs. relative play value; unique
play features and aesthetics compared to existing structures within the park and the
overall park system.
Vendors were provided a budget for equipment not to exceed $55,000. The five vendors
that submitted proposals are shown below in order of how they were evaluated with 1
being the highest:
VENDOR BID
1. Outdoor Recreation Products, Omaha, Nebraska $53,724
2. Boland Recreation, Marshalltown, Iowa $55,000
3. Commercial Recreation Specialists, Verona, Wisconsin $54,800
4. Park Planet, Red Bluff, California $54,570
5. American Playground Company, Sioux Falls, South Dakota $54,986
Based on the review of the proposals, Outdoor Recreation Products, Omaha, Nebraska,
scored the highest and the cost of its playground structure including installation is
$53,724. The goal is to have this playground project completed sometime this fall. The
playground for Inis Grove Park is shown below:
2
The FY 2019/20 Capital Improvements Plan includes $65,500 to replace this playground,
including the playground structure, installation, a two-bay swing, engineered wood fibers
(EWF), and a concrete border.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Award a contract to Outdoor Recreation Products, Omaha, Nebraska for the Inis
Grove Park Playground Replacement Project in the amount of $53,724.
2. Award the contract to another vendor.
3. Do not award a contract at this time.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The residents of Ames continually rate the playgrounds in the parks as good or very good
as part of the annual resident satisfaction survey and the commitment to ensuring
playground structures are safe and enjoyable by the residents is very important. The
current playground has reached its useful life and is ready to be replaced.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council approve
Alternative #1 as stated above.
Smart Choice
MEMO
515.239.5105 main
fax
To: Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: City Clerk’s Office
Date: July 13, 2021
Subject: Contract and Bond Approval
There is/are no Council Action Form(s) for Item No. 19. Council approval of the contract
and bond for this/these project(s) is simply fulfilling a State Code requirement.
/alc
Smart Choice
Public Works Department 515.239.5160 main 515 Clark Ave. P.O. Box 811
Engineering 515.239.5404 fa Ames, IA 50010
www.CityofAmes.org
Public Works Department
515 Clark Avenue, Ames, Iowa 50010
Phone 515‐239‐5160 Fax 515‐239‐5404
July 7, 2021
Honorable Mayor and Council Members
City of Ames
Ames, Iowa 50010
RE: Domani Subdivision 1st Addition Financial Security Reduction #2
Mayor and Council Members:
I hereby certify that the water system and a portion of the storm sewer system required as a
condition for approval of the final plat of Domani Subdivision 1st Addition have been completed
in an acceptable manner by Ames Trenching of Ames, Iowa. The above‐mentioned
improvements have been inspected by the Engineering Division of the Public Works Department
of the City of Ames, Iowa, and found to meet City specifications and standards.
As a result of this certification, it is recommended that the financial security for public
improvements on file with the City for this subdivision be reduced to $444,832.50. The
remaining work covered by this financial security includes earthwork, portion of storm sewer
system, paving, pedestrian ramps, sidewalks, COSESCO, streetlights and street trees.
Sincerely,
John C. Joiner, P.E.
Director
JJ/tp
cc: Finance, Planning & Housing, Subdivision file
Item No. 20
Domani Subdivision 1st Addition
July 7, 2021
Page 2
Item Unit Quantity
STORM SEWER, TRENCHED, RCP, 15 INCH LF 519
STORM SEWER, TRENCHED, RCP, 18 INCH LF 432
STORM SEWER, TRENCHED, RCP, 24 INCH LF 289
STORM SEWER, TRENCHED, RCP, 30 INCH LF 735
STORM SEWER, TRENCHED, RCP, 42 INCH EQUIVALENT ARCH PIPE LF 84
FOOTING DRAIN COLLECTOR, PVC, 4 INCH LF 503
FOOTING DRAIN CLEANOUT, 4 INCH EA 2
FOOTING DRAIN OUTLETS AND CONNECTIONS, 4 INCH EA 2
STORM SEWER SERVICE STUB, PVC, 1.5 INCH EA 28
WATER MAIN, TRENCHED, PVC, 8 INCH LF 1501
FITTING, 11.25° BEND, 8 INCH EA 3
FITTING, 22.5°, 8 INCH EA 5
FITTING, 45°, 8 INCH EA 1
FITTING, TEE, 8 INCH X 8 INCH X 8 INCH EA 1
WATER SERVICE STUB, HDPE, 1 INCH EA 28
VALVE, GATE, 8 INCH EA 5
TAPPING VALVE ASSEMBLY, 8 INCH EA 1
FIRE HYDRANT ASSEMBLY EA 3
FLUSHING DEVICE (BLOWOFF), 8 INCH EA 1
STORM MANHOLE, SW‐401, 48 INCH EA 4
STORM MANHOLE, SW‐401, 60 INCH EA 3
STORM MANHOLE, SW‐401, 72 INCH EA 1
STORM MANHOLE, SW‐401, 84 INCH EA 1
INTAKE, SW‐501 EA 3
INTAKE, SW‐503 EA 4
INTAKE, SW‐505 EA 4
INTAKE, SW‐506 EA 1
CONNECTION TO EXISTING STORM PIPE EA 1
Smart Choice
Public Works Department 515.239.5160 main 515 Clark Ave. P.O. Box 811
Engineering 515.239.5404 fa Ames, IA 50010
www.CityofAmes.org
Public Works Department
515 Clark Avenue, Ames, Iowa 50010
Phone 515‐239‐5160 Fax 515‐239‐5404
July 8, 2021
Honorable Mayor and Council Members
City of Ames
Ames, Iowa 50010
RE: Quarry Estates Subdivision 3rd Addition Financial Security Reduction #3
Mayor and Council Members:
I hereby certify that a portion of the sidewalk and vegetative stabilization (COSESCO (erosion
control) required as a condition for approval of the final plat of Quarry Estates Subdivision, 3rd
Addition has been completed in an acceptable manner by Topline Construction of Pleasant Hill,
Iowa. The above‐mentioned improvements have been inspected by the Engineering Division of
the Public Works Department of the City of Ames, Iowa, and found to meet City specifications
and standards.
As a result of this certification, it is recommended that the financial security for public
improvements on file with the City for this subdivision be reduced to $61,175. The remaining
work covered by this financial security includes sidewalk, conservation management, and
stormwater management.
Sincerely,
John C. Joiner, P.E.
Director
JJ/tp
cc: Finance, Planning & Housing, Subdivision file
Item No. 21
Quarry Estates Subdivision, 3rd Addition
July 8, 2021
Page 2
Descri tion Unit Quantit
Sidewalk Pavement, 4” SY 464
Outlot D Landscaping Native Seeding AC 6.5
Outlot D Landscaping ‐ Trees EA 16
Conservation Area Maintenance AC 7.2
Stormwater Management LS 1
Smart Choice
Public Works Department 515.239.5160 main 515 Clark Ave. P.O. Box 811
Engineering 515.239.5404 fa Ames, IA 50010
www.CityofAmes.org
Public Works Department
515 Clark Avenue, Ames, Iowa 50010
Phone 515‐239‐5160 Fax 515‐239‐5404
July 8, 2021
Honorable Mayor and Council Members
City of Ames
Ames, Iowa 50010
RE: Quarry Estates Addition #4 Financial Security Reduction #2
Mayor and Council Members:
I hereby certify that the street lights, street base, curb and gutter and pedestrian ramp items
required as a condition for approval of the final plat of Quarry Estates #4 Addition have been
completed in an acceptable manner by various homebuilders. The above‐mentioned
improvements have been inspected by the Engineering Division of the Public Works Department
of the City of Ames, Iowa, and found to meet City specifications and standards.
As a result of this certification, it is recommended that the financial security for public
improvements on file with the City for this subdivision be reduced to $183,912.70. The remaining
work covered by this financial security includes sidewalks, street surface, street trees,
stormwater management, seeding and turf restoration as shown in attachment.
Sincerely,
John C. Joiner, P.E.
Director
JJ/tp
cc: Finance, Planning & Housing, Subdivision file
Item No. 22
Quarry Estates 4th Addition
July 8, 2021
Page 2
Description Unit Quantity
Sidewalk Pavement, 4” SY 161
Pavement, HMA Surface, 2” SY 4248
Manhole Adjustments EA 3
Residential Sidewalk Pavement, PCC, 4” SY 1000
Street Trees EA 27
Storm Sewer, Trenched, RCP Class III, 24" LF 32
Storm Sewer, Trenched, RCP Class III, 30” LF 125
Storm Sewer, Trenched, RCP Class III, 36” LF 253
Storm Sewer, Trenched, RCP Class III, 42” LF 67
Pipe Apron, RCP, 24” EA 2
Pipe Apron, RCP, 30” EA 1
Pipe Apron, RCP, 36” EA 3
Pipe Apron, RCP, 42” EA 1
Rip Rap, Class D TON 10
Turf Reinforcement Mats, Type 4 SQ 5
Native Seeding (Swales) AC 0.5
Native Seeding AC 5
Smart Choice
Public Works Department 515.239.5160 main 515 Clark Ave. P.O. Box 811
Engineering 515.239.5404 fa Ames, IA 50010
www.CityofAmes.org
Public Works Department
515 Clark Avenue, Ames, Iowa 50010
Phone 515‐239‐5160 Fax 515‐239‐5404
July 8, 2021
Honorable Mayor and Council Members
City of Ames
Ames, Iowa 50010
RE: Scenic Valley 4th Addition Financial Security Reduction #3
Mayor and Council Members:
I hereby certify that the partial quantities of PCC sidewalk 4” and street trees required as a
condition for approval of the final plat of Scenic Valley 4th Addition have been completed in an
acceptable manner by various homebuilders. The above‐mentioned improvements have been
inspected by the Engineering Division of the Public Works Department of the City of Ames, Iowa,
and found to meet City specifications and standards.
As a result of this certification, it is recommended that the financial security for public
improvements on file with the City for this subdivision be reduced to $36,970. The remaining
work covered by this financial security includes water valve adjustments, public sidewalk, ADA
sidewalk ramps, COSESCO (erosion control), and street trees.
Sincerely,
John C. Joiner, P.E.
Director
JJ/tp
cc: Finance, Planning & Housing, Subdivision file
Item No. 23
Scenic Valley 4th Addition
July 8, 2021
Page 2
Descri tion Unit Quantit
Manhole Adjustments EA 9
Water Valve Adjustments EA 6
PCC Sidewalk, 4” SY 361
PCC Sidewalk, 6” SY 78
Detectable Warning Panels SF 174
COSESCO (erosion control) AC 15.85
Street Trees EA 66
1
Staff Report
12th Street and Duff Avenue Intersection
July 13, 2021
BACKGROUND:
On April 13, 2021, the City Council considered a letter from Ron Frantzen, Executive
Director of Facility Management at McFarland Clinic, requesting to update the crosswalk
at Duff Avenue and 12th Street. In the letter, McFarland Clinic requested the following
actions be taken:
• Request City of Ames to address traffic calming to slow down traffic in the medical
zone between 10th Street and 13th Street, which becomes a high-speed race
between lights at these intersections.
• Have a red traffic light installed [Traffic Signal] to be used for the Ambulance
garage as well as this intersection to address pedestrian safety while crossing Duff.
• Update existing traffic crosswalk signals and add additional flashing notifications
on each lane. Mobotrex quote is included to update to the current MUTCD
standards for flashing brightness and speed of flash.
• Have police monitor traffic speed in HM [Hospital-Medical] Zone for speeding and
distracted motorists.
• Review options to lower speed down to 25 MPH in Medical Zone
• Install flashing speed indicators [Dynamic Feedback Signs] like what was installed
south of 9th Street on Duff Avenue.
The City Council referred the letter from McFarland Clinic to staff for a memo.
EXISTING CONDITIONS:
In 2013, the City and the Clinic worked to install a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon
(RRFB) at the intersection of 12th St and Duff Ave due to McFarland Clinic constructing a
new office building at the corner of 12th St and Carroll Ave. This new office building
requires a large number of Clinic staff to travel between this new location and the main
Clinic building at 1215 Duff Ave, with the most convenient walking route being through
the 12th St and Duff Ave intersection. The RRFB was paid for by McFarland Clinic and
donated to the City for long-term maintenance and upkeep.
Since 2013, McFarland Clinic staff has witnessed close encounters between vehicles and
pedestrians at the crossing with an accident occurring on March 8, 2021, where a
2
McFarland Clinic staff member was hit. This was most likely due to the multilane nature
of Duff Avenue, where one lane of travel may properly yield to a pedestrian while drivers
in the other lane may continue through the crosswalk if not paying attention. It should be
noted that OSHA & Iowa Workforce Development issued an incident notice to McFarland
Clinic to post at its workplace (Attachment 1), citing the serious injury sustained in the
accident.
The segment of Duff Avenue from 10th Street to 13th Street is a five-lane arterial street
with a two-way center left-turn lane that sees approximately 11,000 vehicles per day. The
intersections at 11th Street and 13th Street are fully signalized intersections. The speed
limit along this section of Duff Avenue is posted at 30 MPH. At 12th Street, the
improvements include an RRFB on the north side of the intersection and in 2019 the City
added high visibility crosswalk markings and advanced warning signage.
Existing Conditions
3
PRELIMINARY ANALYSIS AND OPTIONS:
The concerns raised in McFarland Clinic’s letter are mainly focused in two areas: 1)
Speeding and a lowered speed limit along Duff Ave in the area, and 2) Enhanced traffic
control at/near the 12th St and Duff Ave intersection.
Staff conducted a site visit to the intersection and observed several pedestrians crossing
at the 12th Street RRFB. It appears that most vehicles yield to pedestrians while in the
crosswalk. However, staff noted a high density of driveway access points along Duff
Avenue, especially at the 12th Street intersection. These driveways and the multilane
configuration of the road add to the complexity of decision-making a user must make
when trying to travel safely through the intersection.
City staff retrieved a complete crash history beginning in 2013 for the 12th Street and Duff
Avenue intersection vicinity (Attachment 2). There were four total crashes in the eight-
and-a-half-year history since the RRFB was installed. Three crashes were Property
Damage Only (PDO) accidents in 2015, 2017, and 2019, none of which included
pedestrians, and the one pedestrian-vehicle crash in 2021.
Staff used a program called Streetlight to look at the historical trends of speed throughout
the corridor. This program gathers and analyzes anonymized mobile device data to report
traffic patterns. It appears that both the average speed and the 85th percentile are
increasing over time in this corridor. Each year, the trend increases by between 0.8 and
1.2 MPH. Data from the Streetlight software are not accurate enough to base an
engineering determination on but can be used as a relative metric for regional analysis.
Below is a graphical summary of that data:
4
Following this preliminary analysis, City staff identified three potential options to
address the concerns. City staff then sent letters to potentially affected neighbors
east of the intersection to gather feedback regarding one option, as described
below:
Option 1 – Hybrid Beacon with a partial closure of 12th Street (Pedestrian Given
Highest Priority):
Given the high density of driveway access points along this corridor, staff developed a
conceptual layout that would significantly change the vehicular nature of the roadway by
removing many of the conflicts points between pedestrians and vehicles (Attachment 3).
This concept results in a more pedestrian-focused design. The concept includes a
Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon that would stop north-south traffic along Duff Avenue, giving
clear right-of-way to pedestrians.
However, because of how the hybrid beacon works, it should not be placed at locations
where there are higher traffic volumes from the side street. Therefore, the concept
includes a partial closure of the intersection (12th St) and the southern drive into
McFarland's parking lot. This would limit vehicle traffic into the intersection, primarily
any conflicting turning movements across the crosswalk area. The hybrid beacon would
also stop traffic for ambulances leaving Mary Greeley Medical Center, just as the beacon
adjacent Fire Station #1 on 13th Street stops traffic for fire apparatus.
Knowing that this option could be unpopular, staff proactively sent out a letter with the
conceptual drawing to all the properties fronting Duff and Carroll Avenues from 13th Street
to 11th Street, asking for feedback. To date, staff has received six responses to the
proposal. It should be noted the feedback is overwhelmingly negative to this
concept, from neighbors and McFarland Clinic representatives. The feedback
emails received are attached to this report for reference.
5
Option 2 – Maintain Existing Conditions (Continue to monitor safety):
Any pedestrian accident is cause for concern and review, especially one that results in
an injury. However, the RRFB crossing has operated in a less-than-ideal location for over
eight years, resulting in one pedestrian crash during that time. It should be noted that the
use of the RRFB at an intersection such as the one currently in place at 12th St and Duff
Ave would not likely be recommended today using current best practices. An ideal use
for the treatment is a single-lane approach with a refuge median; an example of this
installation type is on South Dakota Avenue north of the hospice house.
Under this option, staff would work with McFarland Clinic staff to monitor safety
and speed through the corridor. Public Works staff has already requested that the
Police Department conduct periodic speed enforcement in the corridor from
around 10th Street to 13th Street. This type of speed enforcement can be effective
for relatively low amounts of excessive speeding. However, if the situation were to
worsen in the future, any changes that require City Council action would be
returned to the City Council for discussion.
Option 3 – Remove the RRFB (Pedestrians can use 11th or 13th Street Signals):
This option would acknowledge the facilities and characteristics of the area. When it is
unsafe or infeasible to accommodate pedestrians in a particular location, pedestrians
should be encouraged and guided to crossing locations with proper treatments and
improvements based on adjacent traffic conditions. Actions may include removing or
discouraging crossing locations that are found to be unsafe. It is fortunate that along Duff
Ave, there are two fully signalized intersections within approximately 420 feet of the
existing crossing.
In this option, if the existing the RRFB is thought to give pedestrians a false sense
of security, it should be removed to avoid encouraging crossing at a location not
designed for that pedestrian movement. Pedestrians would be directed to the full
traffic signals at 11th St or 13th St for crossing Duff Ave.
NEXT STEPS:
It is important to keep in mind that staff has not committed the time and resources
to conduct a traffic study or comprehensive speed study. The Council could direct
staff to conduct a comprehensive speed study and report back with findings, which
could potentially warrant a reduction in the speed limit along this corridor.
The City Council could also direct staff to complete a detailed engineering design
for the partial closure of the 12th Street intersection and installation of a hybrid
beacon. Such an analysis would be required to move this option beyond the
6
conceptual phase and identify the potential traffic impacts (re-routing of traffic),
costs, and funding options.
Crash Severity
Fatal Crash 0
Suspected Serious Injury Crash 1
Suspected Minor Injury Crash 0
Possible/Unknown Injury Crash 0
Property Damage Only 3
4 Injury Status Summary
Fatalities 0
Suspected serious/incapacitating 1
Suspected minor/non-incapacitating 0
Possible (complaint of pain/injury)0
Unknown 0
1
Property Damage Total (dollars):9,550.00
Average (per crash dollars):2,387.50
Total Vehicles:6.00
Average (per crash):1.50
Total Occupants:6.00
Average (per crash):1.50
Property/Vehicles/Occupants
Fatalities/Fatal Crash:0.00
Fatalities/Crash:0.00
Injuries/Crash:0.25
Major Injuries/Crash:0.25
Minor Injuries/Crash:0.00
Possible/Unknown Injuries/Crash:0.00
Average Severity
07/06/2021 1 of 7
Iowa Crash Analysis Tool
Quick Report
2013-2021
Major Cause
Animal 0
Ran stop sign 0
FTYROW: At uncontrolled intersection 0
FTYROW: From stop sign 1
FTYROW: Making left turn 0
FTYROW: From parked position 0
FTYROW: Other 0
Disregarded RR Signal 0
Crossed median (divided)0
Aggressive driving/road rage 0
Exceeded authorized speed 0
Operating vehicle in an reckless, erratic, ca...0
Passing: On wrong side 0
Passing: With insufficient distance/inadequa...0
Passing: Other passing 0
Driver Distraction: Manual operation of an e...0
Driver Distraction: Talking on a hands free ...0
Driver Distraction: Other electronic device ...0
Driver Distraction: Unrestrained animal 0
Driver Distraction: Inattentive/lost in thou...0
Driver Distraction: Exterior distraction 0
Ran off road - straight 0
Lost control 0
Over correcting/over steering 0
Failure to signal intentions 0
Vehicle stopped on railroad tracks 0
Other: Improper operation 0
Other: Disregarded signs/road markings 0
Downhill runaway 0
Towing improperly 0
Equipment failure 0
Other: Getting off/out of vehicle 0
Improper backing 0
Illegally parked/unattended 0
Operator inexperience 0
Unknown 0
Other: No improper action 0
Ran traffic signal 0
Failed to yield to emergency vehicle 0
FTYROW: Making right turn on red signal 0
FTYROW: From yield sign 0
FTYROW: From driveway 0
FTYROW: To pedestrian 1
Drove around RR grade crossing gates 0
Crossed centerline (undivided)0
Traveling wrong way or on wrong side of road 0
Driving too fast for conditions 1
Improper or erratic lane changing 1
Followed too close 0
Passing: Where prohibited by signs/markings 0
Passing: Through/around barrier 0
Made improper turn 0
Driver Distraction: Talking on a hand-held d...0
Driver Distraction: Adjusting devices (radio...0
Driver Distraction: Passenger 0
Driver Distraction: Reaching for object(s)/f...0
Driver Distraction: Other interior distracti...0
Ran off road - right 0
Ran off road - left 0
Swerving/Evasive Action 0
Failed to keep in proper lane 0
Traveling on prohibited traffic way 0
Other: Vision obstructed 0
Other: Disregarded warning sign 0
Other: Illegal off-road driving 0
Separation of units 0
Cargo/equipment loss or shift 0
Oversized load/vehicle 0
Failure to dim lights/have lights on 0
Improper starting 0
Driving less than the posted speed limit 0
Other 0
Not reported 0
4
07/06/2021 2 of 7
Iowa Crash Analysis Tool
Quick Report
2013-2021
Time of Day/Day of Week
Day of Week
12 AM
to
2 AM
2 AM
to 4
AM
4 AM
to 6
AM
6 AM
to 8
AM
8 AM
to
10 AM
10 AM
to
Noon
Noon
to 2
PM
2 PM
to 4
PM
4 PM
to 6
PM
6 PM
to 8
PM
8 PM
to
10 PM
10 PM
to
12 AM
Not
reporte
d Total
Sunday 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Monday 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1
Tuesday 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1
Wednesday 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1
Thursday 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1
Friday 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Saturday 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 4
Manner of Crash Collision
Non-collision (single vehicle)2
Head-on (front to front)0
Rear-end (front to rear)0
Angle, oncoming left turn 0
Broadside (front to side)1
Sideswipe, same direction 1
Sideswipe, opposite direction 0
Rear to rear 0
Rear to side 0
Not reported 0
Other 0
Unknown 0
4 Surface Conditions
Dry 3
Wet 0
Ice/frost 0
Snow 1
Slush 0
Mud, dirt 0
Water (standing or moving)0
Sand 0
Oil 0
Gravel 0
Not reported 0
Other 0
Unknown 0
4
Fixed Object Struck
Bridge overhead structure 0
Bridge/bridge rail parapet 0
Ditch 0
Ground 0
Guardrail - face 0
Concrete traffic barrier (median or right sid...0
Cable barrier 0
Utility pole/light support 0
Traffic signal support 0
Fire hydrant 0
Tree 0
Snow bank 0
Wall 0
Other fixed object 0
Bridge pier or support 0
Curb/island/raised median 0
Embankment 0
Culvert/pipe opening 0
Guardrail - end 0
Other traffic barrier 0
Impact attenuator/crash cushion 0
Traffic sign support 0
Other post/pole/support 0
Mailbox 0
Landscape/shrubbery 1
Fence 0
Building 0
None (no fixed object struck)5
6
07/06/2021 3 of 7
Iowa Crash Analysis Tool
Quick Report
2013-2021
Driver Age/Driver Gender
Driver Age - 5 year
Bins Female Male
Not
reported Unknown Total
< 14 0 0 0 0 0
= 14 0 0 0 0 0
= 15 0 0 0 0 0
= 16 0 0 0 0 0
= 17 0 0 0 0 0
= 18 0 0 0 0 0
= 19 0 1 0 0 1
= 20 0 0 0 0 0
>= 21 and <= 24 0 0 0 0 0
>= 25 and <= 29 0 0 0 0 0
>= 30 and <= 34 0 0 0 0 0
>= 35 and <= 39 0 0 0 0 0
>= 40 and <= 44 0 1 0 0 1
>= 45 and <= 49 1 0 0 0 1
>= 50 and <= 54 0 0 0 0 0
>= 55 and <= 59 1 0 0 0 1
>= 60 and <= 64 0 0 0 0 0
>= 65 and <= 69 0 0 0 0 0
>= 70 and <= 74 0 1 0 0 1
>= 75 and <= 79 0 0 0 0 0
>= 80 and <= 84 0 0 0 0 0
>= 85 and <= 89 0 1 0 0 1
>= 90 and <= 94 0 0 0 0 0
>= 95 0 0 0 0 0
Not reported 0 0 0 0 0
Unknown 0 0 0 0 0
Total 2 4 0 0 6
Alcohol Test Given
None 6
Blood 0
Urine 0
Breath 0
Vitreous 0
Refused 0
Not reported 0
6
Drug Test Given
None 6
Blood 0
Urine 0
Breath 0
Vitreous 0
Refused 0
Not reported 0
6
Drug Test Result
Negative 0
Cannabis 0
Central Nervous System depressants 0
Central Nervous System stimulants 0
Hallucinogens 0
Inhalants 0
Narcotic Analgesics 0
Dissociative Anesthetic (PCP)0
Prescription Drug 0
Not reported 0
Other 0
0
Drug/Alcohol Related
Drug 0
Alcohol (< Statutory)0
Alcohol (Statutory)0
Drug and Alcohol (< Statutory)0
Drug and Alcohol (Statutory)0
Refused 0
Under Influence of Alcohol/Drugs/Medications 0
None Indicated 4
4
07/06/2021 4 of 7
Iowa Crash Analysis Tool
Quick Report
2013-2021
Crash Severity - Annual
Crash Year Fatal Crash
Suspected Serious
Injury Crash
Suspected Minor
Injury Crash
Possible/Unknown
Injury Crash
Property Damage
Only Total
2011 0 0 0 0 0 0
2012 0 0 0 0 0 0
2013 0 0 0 0 0 0
2014 0 0 0 0 0 0
2015 0 0 0 0 1 1
2016 0 0 0 0 0 0
2017 0 0 0 0 1 1
2018 0 0 0 0 0 0
2019 0 0 0 0 1 1
2020 0 0 0 0 0 0
2021 0 1 0 0 0 1
Total 0 1 0 0 3 4
Severity/Year
07/06/2021 5 of 7
Iowa Crash Analysis Tool
Quick Report
2013-2021
Injury Status - Annual
Crash Year Fatalities
Suspected
serious/incapac
itating
Suspected
minor/non-
incapacitating
Possible
(complaint of
pain/injury)Unknown Total
2011 0 0 0 0 0 0
2012 0 0 0 0 0 0
2013 0 0 0 0 0 0
2014 0 0 0 0 0 0
2015 0 0 0 0 0 0
2016 0 0 0 0 0 0
2017 0 0 0 0 0 0
2018 0 0 0 0 0 0
2019 0 0 0 0 0 0
2020 0 0 0 0 0 0
2021 0 1 0 0 0 1
Total 0 1 0 0 0 1
Injury Status/Year
07/06/2021 6 of 7
Iowa Crash Analysis Tool
Quick Report
2013-2021
Jurisdiction: Statewide
Year: 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021
Map Selection: Yes
Filter: None
Meeting the following criteria
12th Street and Duff Avenue
Analyst Information
07/06/2021 7 of 7
Iowa Crash Analysis Tool
Quick Report
2013-2021
DUFF AVE
12TH ST
12th and Duff Citizen Feedback
Daniel Concannon <DConcannon@Hanger.com>
Tue 6/1/2021 9:42 AM
To: Pregitzer, Damion <Damion.Pregitzer@cityofames.org>
[External Email]
Hello,
My name is Daniel Concannon an employee of Hanger Clinic at the intersec on of 12th and Duff. If my
understanding is correct the east entrance of 12th street will be closed. This directly impacts our pa ents being
able to enter from Duff to park in our lot. Should this be closed the pa ents would need to circle around on 13th
or 11th then to a neighborhood block to get onto 12th from the west and then to our lot. We have many elderly
pa ents which this would be confusing for and poten ally increase their frustra ons. If possible, we would like to
see the east entrance of 12th le open for traffic so pa ents of ours can easily park.
I am regularly seeing pa ents in the hospital walking from our clinic. I do not like the current pedestrian crossing
as most vehicles ignore the flashing lights. I like the idea of adding traffic signals at the intersec on to improve
safety, but not closing the east entrance to 12th.
Thank you,
Daniel Concannon, CPO
Certified Prosthetist and Orthotist
Hanger Clinic
1202 Duff Ave.
Ames, IA 50010
Office: 515-232-3927
Fax: 515-232-8517
Empowering Human Potential
12th and Duff Citizen Feedback
Holland Evermore <ganache@devermore.com>
Mon 6/14/2021 5:11 PM
To: Pregitzer, Damion <Damion.Pregitzer@cityofames.org>
[External Email]
Good Afternoon Damion,
I would like to say thank you for taking the time to read our emails on this matter.
My name is Holland Evermore, my husband Dustin and I live at 1120 Carroll, Ames IA 50010, right by
12th street and the McFarland expansion.
I am including a link to a short video in hopes that you and the council will be able to see more clearly
what is being proposed than just hearing it in words.
In the video you will see a comparison of what traffic and parking is like during a weekend and
weekday.
You will also see what McFarland currently has in place as instructions for their staff exiting the area,
which is to exit onto duff using 12th street.
This was an agreed compromise made by McFarland to our neighborhood during the last expansion.
One of our biggest concerns is the increase of traffic down our street. Because it is easy to bypass
stoplights and traffic down both Duff and 13th street, many people go down Carroll because there are
limited stops.
With the addition of McFarland employees parking on the street, during business hours it becomes
single file to get through, and causes congestion.
There is a daycare facility on our road as well, so buses use Carroll also.
Most of the time the speed limit isn’t observed, and there is an uncontrolled four way stop.
There are currently two controlled stop lights with crosswalks on 11th, and 13th. There is a crosswalk
on 12th with flashing lights that I have used many times and I have not seen any issue with traffic
respecting it and stopping.
By closing off 12th street the amount of traffic is going to increase down our street, and McF arland will
gain a larger parking lot that isn’t used.
When the last expansion happened our neighborhood contested it for years, until McF arland was
finally able to win the council over and get it approved. They did this by buying residential land, at
residential rates, then letting any property on it deteriorate. Then they had the land re-zoned so they
could build commercial buildings.
Soon after other businesses tried to do the same thing.
McFarland has said they eventually see their medical campus reaching all the way back to the
cemetery.
As someone who lives in the neighborhood this is rather alarming to me. It is also scary that the city
council has set precedent for a business to do such shady practices and benefit from it.
If the closure of 12th is granted this will be one more step in the expansion of their medical campus
and another loss for a neighborhood of affordable housing. Housing in a price range that is hard to
find anymore.
I recently received a letter from a realtor gauging interest in selling for that very reason, housing in our
price range doesn’t open often.
That means that one, people really need more options in this price range, and two we stay in our
houses for a very long time.
In closing I want to thank you again for taking the time to read this, and I hope watch the
video: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zhf6czRGKqPxUqoIy-m6RQ8ulGoyKkos/view?usp=drivesdk
I am happy to answer any questions you may have.
Cordially,
Holland & Dustin Evermore
Carroll Ave residents since 2006
12th and Duff Citizen Feedback
Kathy Shonkwiler <kashonk@gmail.com>
Tue 6/15/2021 12:15 AM
To: Pregitzer, Damion <Damion.Pregitzer@cityofames.org>
[External Email]
Ames City Traffic Division:
I am Kathy Shonkwiler, my husband, Sam Shonkwiler and I have lived at 1217 Carroll Avenue since
June 1976.
We feel very strongly that closing 12th St at Duff Avenue is going to cause considerable problems and
inconvenience for those residents that live on Carroll Ave and surrounding avenues and streets.
Currently during the day, Carroll Ave has employee cars from McFarland Clinic and Mary Greeley
parked on both sides of the street, which makes driving on Carroll Ave challenging. If 12th St is closed
at Duff Ave cars from both the Clinic Eye Building and 1211 12th St building will be using Carroll Ave
more as it is the first street going north or south. We do not want our residential neighborhood street to
be forced to have any restricted access of parking on either side of the street during any hours because
McFarland Clinic chose to build the 1211 12th St. building in a residential area. They knew as they were
planning on constructing that building it would require their employees to cross Duff Ave. During the
discussions at the City Council meetings at that time, that point was addressed and the Clinic assured
the neighborhood 12th St would not be closed because they planned on having that building house their
administration offices (which did not happen) to make room at the main Clinic for more physicians, they
told us pedestrian traffic to and from the main Clinic would not be a concern. 12th St is used daily as a
through street to those living on Carroll and all neighbors along East 12th and those residents along
Stafford Ave and Maxwell Ave.
Now we are a few years down the road and again the Clinic wants to force our neighborhood into
another residential inconvenience. Closing off any more streets in this area of town should be
discouraged. We have lost use of parts of Douglas Ave and 11th St to the medical entities.
Closing 12th St at Duff Ave does not solve the pedestrian crossing problem as cars will still be traveling
on Duff Ave. We would suggest barriers at the sidewalk crossings at the corners of 12th and Duff Ave
and have a pedestrian crossing be assigned halfway between 11th St. and 12th St. and/or halfway
between 12th St and 13th St thereby eliminating pedestrian conflict at 12th St.
Since the real problem is unsafe pedestrians crossing Duff we would suggest
you look into a walkway over Duff or a tunnel under Duff Ave in that area.
Closing 12th St is not a solution to pedestrians crossing Duff!
Kathy and Sam Shonkwiler
1217 Carroll Avenue
Ames, IA 50010
Re: Pedestrian vehicle strike
Ron Frantzen <rfrantzen@mcfarlandclinic.com>
Tue 5/25/2021 4:58 PM
To: Pregitzer, Damion <Damion.Pregitzer@cityofames.org>
Cc: Gansen, Mark <Mark.Gansen@cityofames.org>
[External Email]
Hi Damion,
What you have proposed will create a significant traffic flow issue diverting commercial and normal vehicle traffic from
the main arterial street of Duff Avenue into residential side streets.
Back in 2011 McFarland Clinic was developing property we owned into an office building and we held meetings with
the Sunrise Addition Neighborhood Association, and the City of Ames Planning and Housing. At these meetings the
Sunrise Addition Neighborhood Association, and the residents who attended did not want the 12th street access onto
Duff Avenue closed. We did not either as we needed the arterial street of Duff Avenue for patient access.
We do not support closing E12th street or 1215 Duff Avenue south East exit driveway. McFarland Clinic has only one
Duff Avenue egress and this would cause significant disruption to the patients leaving the location. The 1128 Duff
Eye Center location is an entrance only off Duff Avenue and this entrance was not designed to be a two way traffic
flow. The exiting traffic flow currently takes you out to 12th street, then to Duff Avenue to exit. Delivery vehicles do
not fit under this canopy.
Sincerely,
Ron
Ron Frantzen, CPMBO, BOC I
Exec Director of Facilities Management
McFarland Clinic 1215 Duff Ave Ames IA 50010 t: (515) 239 - 4455 | f: (515) 956 - 4119 | e: rfrantzen@mcfarlandclinic.com
On Tue, May 25, 2021 at 9:04 AM Pregitzer, Damion <Damion.Pregitzer@cityofames.org> wrote:
Ron,
Yes, it would involve closing that closest driveway. To make significant improvements for pedestrian
safety we have increment the character of the street towards a pedestrian focused design. A big piece
of which is removing any vehicle conflict points with the pedestrian possible. Removing these conflict
points also has the benefit to simply the interactions for both peds and vehicles - they both have less
to worry about under the proposed design. I could see that what happens frequently is there are too
many distractions with all the driveways, cars, and people moving about daily.
I would also appreciate if you could forward the design to the EMT staff who drive the ambulances for
their feedback on the potential use of a hybrid beacon when responding to a call. Typically, we have a
pre-empt switch installed in the garage bay as a backup to the emitters on their vehicles.
Thanks!
Damion Pregitzer, P.E. PTOE
Traffic Engineer
Public Works
City Hall, 515 Clark Ave. | Ames, IA 50010
515.239.5160 main
515.239.5404 fax
damion.pregitzer@cityofames.org
Mailing: 515 Clark Ave. | Ames, IA 50010
www.CityofAmes.org
Help make the City of Ames better!
Download the Ames on the Go app today!
From: Ron Frantzen <rfrantzen@mcfarlandclinic.com>
Sent: Monday, May 24, 2021 4:02 PM
To: Pregitzer, Damion <Damion.Pregitzer@cityofames.org>
Subject: Re: Pedestrian vehicle strike
[External Email]
Damion,
I will review this in more detail but I have a question: Are you also stating McFarland Clinic eliminates a driveway
into our lot off Duff?
Ron
Ron Frantzen, CPMBO, BOC I
Exec Director of Facilities Management
McFarland Clinic 1215 Duff Ave Ames IA 50010 t: (515) 239 - 4455 | f: ( 515) 956 - 4119 | e: rfrantzen@mcfarlandclinic.com
On Mon, May 24, 2021 at 3:49 PM Pregitzer, Damion < Damion.Pregitzer@cityofames.org> wrote:
Ron and Matt,
We have developed a conceptual improvement to minimize vehicle-ped interactions at the
intersection of 12th and Duff. The goal is to remove as many potential vehicles strikes as possible
while simplifying the crossing. We are also looking at a hybrid beacon that could be used for both
peds as well as something that can be activated by the ambulances.
Before this goes to Council, I need to get neighborhood feedback. This memo was mailed today. I
hope to get feedback in time for the June 22nd meeting.
I f you have any questions or concerns, please let me know.
Thanks!
Damion Pregitzer, P.E. PTOE
Traffic Engineer
Public Works
City Hall, 515 Clark Ave. | Ames, IA 50010
515.239.5160 main
515.239.5404 fax
damion.pregitzer@cityofames.org
Mailing: 515 Clark Ave. | Ames, IA 50010
www.CityofAmes.org
Help make the City of Ames better!
Download the Ames on the Go app today!
From: Ron Frantzen <rfrantzen@mcfarlandclinic.com>
Sent: Thursday, April 8, 2021 11:15 AM
To: Pregitzer, Damion <Damion.Pregitzer@cityofames.org>
Cc: Schainker, Steve <steve.schainker@cityofames.org>; Voss, Diane <diane.voss@cityofames.org>; Ma
Franco <mfranco@mcfarlandclinic.com>; Roger Kluesner <rkluesner@mcfarlandclinic.com>; Kelly Hartwig
<khartwig@mcfarlandclinic.com>; Seth McCoy <semccoy@mcfarlandclinic.com>; Joiner, John
<john.joiner@cityofames.org>
Subject: Re: Pedestrian vehicle strike
[External Email]
Thank you
Ron Frantzen, CPMBO, BOC I
Exec Director of Facilities Management
McFarland Clinic 1215 Duff Ave Ames IA 50010 t: (515) 239 - 4455 | f: ( 515) 956 - 4119 | e: rfrantzen@mcfarlandclinic.com
On Thu, Apr 8, 2021 at 11:09 AM Pregitzer, Damion < Damion.Pregitzer@cityofames.org> wrote:
Ron,
I can forward it for you. Just wanted to make you aware it needed to go to Council for a referral.
Thanks!
Damion Pregitzer, P.E. PTOE
Traffic Engineer
Public Works
City Hall, 515 Clark Ave. | Ames, IA 50010
515.239.5160 main
515.239.5404 fax
damion.pregitzer@cityofames.org
Mailing: 515 Clark Ave. | Ames, IA 50010
www.CityofAmes.org
Help make the City of Ames better!
Download the Ames on the Go app today!
From: Ron Frantzen <rfrantzen@mcfarlandclinic.com>
Sent: Thursday, April 8, 2021 11:00 AM
To: Pregitzer, Damion <Damion.Pregitzer@cityofames.org>
Cc: Schainker, Steve <steve.schainker@cityofames.org>; Voss, Diane <diane.voss@cityofames.org>; Ma
Franco <mfranco@mcfarlandclinic.com>; Roger Kluesner <rkluesner@mcfarlandclinic.com>; Kelly Hartwig
<khartwig@mcfarlandclinic.com>; Seth McCoy <semccoy@mcfarlandclinic.com>; Joiner, John
<john.joiner@cityofames.org>
Subject: Re: Pedestrian vehicle strike
[External Email]
Damion,
Who will make this request to Diane Voss? Since I had already sent this to your attention I will assume this is
an internal process at the City? Will I be made aware when this would become a City Council discussion.
Ron Frantzen
Ron Frantzen, CPMBO, BOC I
Exec Director of Facilities Management
McFarland Clinic 1215 Duff Ave Ames IA 50010 t: (515) 239 - 4455 | f: ( 515) 956 - 4119 | e: rfrantzen@mcfarlandclinic.com
On Thu, Apr 8, 2021 at 10:18 AM Pregitzer, Damion < Damion.Pregitzer@cityofames.org>
wrote:
Ron,
I believe the best way to move forward is to make an official request to our City Council (via
Diane Voss) to ask that staff review the issues you brought up and provide information to
Council as to what could be included in a response.
Thanks!
Damion Pregitzer, P.E. PTOE
Traffic Engineer
Public Works
City Hall, 515 Clark Ave. | Ames, IA 50010
515.239.5160 main
515.239.5404 fax
damion.pregitzer@cityofames.org
Mailing: 515 Clark Ave. | Ames, IA 50010
www.CityofAmes.org
Help make the City of Ames better!
Download the Ames on the Go app today!
From: Pregitzer, Damion <Damion.Pregitzer@cityofames.org>
Sent: Tuesday, March 23, 2021 2:31 PM
To: Ron Frantzen <rfrantzen@mcfarlandclinic.com>; Schainker, Steve <steve.schainker@cityofames.org>
Cc: Ma Franco <mfranco@mcfarlandclinic.com>; Roger Kluesner <rkluesner@mcfarlandclinic.com>;
Kelly Hartwig <khartwig@mcfarlandclinic.com>; Seth McCoy <semccoy@mcfarlandclinic.com>; Joiner,
John <john.joiner@cityofames.org>
Subject: Re: Pedestrian vehicle strike
Ron,
I will get with John and Steve as to what direction is needed to proceed with a study.
Thanks!
Damion Pregitzer, P.E. PTOE
Traffic Engineer
Public Works
City Hall, 515 Clark Ave. | Ames, IA 50010
515.239.5160 main
515.239.5404 fax
damion.pregitzer@cityofames.org
Mailing: 515 Clark Ave. | Ames, IA 50010
www.CityofAmes.org
Help make the City of Ames better!
Download the Ames on the Go app today!
From: Ron Frantzen <rfrantzen@mcfarlandclinic.com>
Sent: Tuesday, March 23, 2021 1:53 PM
To: Schainker, Steve <steve.schainker@cityofames.org>; Pregitzer, Damion
<Damion.Pregitzer@cityofames.org>
Cc: Ma Franco <mfranco@mcfarlandclinic.com>; Roger Kluesner <rkluesner@mcfarlandclinic.com>;
Kelly Hartwig <khartwig@mcfarlandclinic.com>; Seth McCoy <semccoy@mcfarlandclinic.com>
Subject: Pedestrian vehicle strike
[External Email]
Dear Mr. Schainker and Damion Pregitzer,
Attached is a summary of what took place a couple weeks ago when a McFarland Clinic staff member was
hit in the Duff Avenue Cross walk at 12th street. I am seeking City of Ames assistance in helping us
prevent such an incident from occurring again and saving a life or long term disability to any resident or
guest crossing this intersection here in Ames. I would be happy to work with you on this
dangerous crossing. Please refer to three attachments.
Sincerely,
Ron Frantzen
Ron Frantzen, CPMBO, BOC I
Exec Director of Facilities Management
McFarland Clinic 1215 Duff Ave Ames IA 50010
t: (515) 239 - 4455 | f: ( 515) 956 - 4119 | e: rfrantzen@mcfarlandclinic.com
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE:
This E-mail (including the attachments) is covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act, 18 U.S.C.§§ 2510-2521, is
confidential and may be legally privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any retention,
dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. Please reply to the sender that you have
received the message in error, then delete it. Thank You.
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE:
This E-mail (including the attachments) is covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act, 18 U.S.C.§§ 2510-2521, is
confidential and may be legally privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any retention,
dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. Please reply to the sender that you have received
the message in error, then delete it. Thank You.
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE:
This E-mail (including the attachments) is covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act, 18 U.S.C.§§ 2510-2521, is
confidential and may be legally privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any retention,
dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. Please reply to the sender that you have received the
message in error, then delete it. Thank You.
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE:
This E-mail (including the attachments) is covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act, 18 U.S.C.§§ 2510-2521, is confidential
and may be legally privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any retention, dissemination, distribution, or
copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. Please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete it.
Thank You.
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE:
This E-mail (including the attachments) is covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act, 18 U.S.C.§§ 2510-2521, is confidential and
may be legally privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any retention, dissemination, distribution, or
copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. Please reply to the sender that you have received the message in error, then delete it.
Thank You.
12th and Duff Citizen Feedback
ctstark@aol.com <ctstark@aol.com>
Tue 5/25/2021 8:18 PM
To: Pregitzer, Damion <Damion.Pregitzer@cityofames.org>
[External Email]
Dear Damion,
I am strongly opposed to a plan that closes the east side of 12th and Duff Avenue to vehicular traffic.
I am an orthodontist who has practiced at 1212 Duff Avenue for over 35 years. Blocking traffic on 12th Street
would significantly limit our patient, staff and doctor access to our dental building coming and going.
In my opinion, the better and more simple solution is to place a stoplight at 12th and Duff.
As a part owner of our 1212 Duff office building, I appreciate the opportunity to speak regarding issues that will
directly affect us on a daily basis.
Thank you for considering my thoughts.
Tom Stark
12th Street Proposal
amesoralsurgeons@aol.com <amesoralsurgeons@aol.com>
Wed 5/26/2021 9:23 AM
To: Pregitzer, Damion <Damion.Pregitzer@cityofames.org>
[External Email]
Dear Damion,
In regards to the proposal to close the east side of 12th Street at Duff Avenue, I am Firmly opposed to that plan.
I am an Oral Surgeon who practices at 1212 Duff Ave and has done so for 25 years. Patients, staff, and doctors
regularly use 12th Street for access in coming to and leaving our office.
I believe that placing a stoplight at 12th Street and Duff Ave would be a far better solution.
Sincerely,
Robert A. Rudman
1
ITEM # 25
DATE: 07-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: MORTENSEN ROAD SIDEWALK INFILL UPDATE
BACKGROUND:
At its February 25, 2020 meeting, the City Council directed staff to allow the owners of
properties located at 1305 Dickinson Avenue, 4535 Mortensen Road, and 4515
Mortensen Road until July 1, 2021 to complete the installation of their sidewalk/path
projects. The Council’s direction provided that if the projects were not installed by that
date, staff should initiate an assessment project for any path or sidewalk remaining to be
installed.
As of July 9, 2021, no sidewalk or path portions have been installed at these properties.
The owner of 4515 Mortensen Road (Kum & Go) has submitted sidewalk construction
plans to City staff and the plans have been approved. Staff has been unable to confirm
recently with Kum & Go’s construction manager, but has previously received indications
that the sidewalk construction on this property will take place the week of July 19.
The owner of 1305 Dickinson Avenue and 4535 Mortensen Road (Dickson Jensen)
submitted sidewalk construction plans to City staff on July 8. City staff returned comments
the same day. City staff estimates that minimal design work will be required to address
the comments. The property owner indicated to City staff that construction of the
sidewalks is planned for these properties the week of July 12.
City staff believes the sidewalk construction for all three properties could take several
days to complete, and is dependent upon favorable weather conditions.
Although both property owners have indicated the installation will occur, staff is presenting
City Council with the option to authorize the design and installation if the property owners
fail to follow through with the installation as promised. The mechanism for the City to get
sidewalk installed is the special assessment process. The first step in a special
assessment is to solicit proposals for engineering services.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Authorize staff to solicit proposals and engage professional engineering services
for a sidewalk/path infill assessment project at 1305 Dickinson Avenue, 4535
Mortensen Road, and/or 4515 Mortensen Road, if the property owners have not
commenced installation work on or before July 23, 2021.
2. Do not proceed with the special assessment.
2
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The owners of the three properties have construction plans for the sidewalk and anticipate
commencing construction in the next two weeks. However, this timeframe is several
weeks after the deadline set by the City Council to complete the construction. If
construction does not move forward, the action to authorize staff to solicit proposals and
engage a professional engineering firm will allow the assessment process to quickly move
forward.
A July 23 deadline to commence construction allows for a reasonable period of time for
the property owners to voluntarily complete the work and accommodates any potential
rain delays. If the work is not completed by that date, staff will notify the property owners
that the special assessment project is proceeding and take the required steps to initiate
it. Proceeding with this special assessment project, if needed, will make it possible to
provide important bicycle and pedestrian connections for area residents, students and
commuters.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.
1
Staff Report
STATUS OF REINVESTMENT DISTRICT PROJECTS
July 13, 2021
INDOOR AQUATICS CENTER:
The City Council will recall that the City had applied for $21,527,983 of incentive funding
through the Iowa Reinvestment District Program. It was hoped that these state monies
combined with $10,000,000 from private donations would cover almost the total projected
cost of approximately $27,494,000 (plus $4,426,746 in estimated interest payments on
debt) for a new Indoor Aquatics Center on Lincoln Way across from the IDOT
headquarters.
On June 25, 2021, the Iowa Economic Development Authority approved provisional
funding decisions for the current round of Reinvestment District funding. A summary of
the allocations is highlighted below.
Applicant Requested Funding Provisional Funding
Ames $21,527,983 $10,000,000
Total $151,597,644 $100,000,000
It should be emphasized that these funding totals are considered provisional
because much of the information included in each application was preliminary.
The cities now have until February 25, 2022 to submit their final applications which
will reflect the final design plans and expenditure/revenue projections for the
projects.
Given this $11,527,983 reduction in Reinvestment District funding, the gap that will
require property taxpayer support is now estimated to be $7,494,000, as reflected
in the next table.
Estimated Cost of Aquatics Center Project (2022 Dollars) $27,494,000
Minus: Donations -$10,000,000
Estimated Amount of Debt Needed To Be Issued $17,494,000
Minus: Reinvestment District Revenue -$10,000,000
GAP: Estimated Amount To Be Paid By Property Taxes $7,494,000
Item No. 26
2
FINANCING OPTIONS
The City Council has three principal options to finance the project. It should be
emphasized that under Options 1 and 2, the City would issue $17,494,000 in General
Obligation debt. However, it is anticipated that the net impact to taxpayers would
be $7,494,000, after accounting for the $10,000,000 of Reinvestment District
funding. These three options for the Council to consider consist of:
1. Urban Renewal
Since the proposed site of the Aquatics Center will be situated within a
designated Urban Renewal Area, under the Iowa Code the $17,494,000 in
G.O. Bonds issued for this project can be issued as an Essential Corporate
Purpose. These bonds can be issued by the City Council following a hearing,
without holding a public referendum to authorize the sale of the bonds.
However, a referendum can be required if the Council receives a valid
petition requesting a vote. The petition must contain signatures equaling at
least 10% (3,189) of the number who voted in the last regular election. The
petition may be signed by any person residing in Ames who is eligible to vote at
the time they sign the petition (petition signers need not be registered to vote, but
simply be eligible to register). The petition must be filed with the City Clerk prior to
the conclusion of the public hearing authorizing the issuance of the debt. A
minimum ten-day notice is required prior to the hearing. This option is what the
staff has referred to as a “Reverse Referendum.”
2. Referendum Election
The City Council can decide to bring forward for a public referendum a
question to authorize $17,494,000 in G.O. Bonds. This referendum would
require a 60% approval from voters. State law allows a vote at a Special
Election on September 14, 2021 or March 1, 2022, or at the General Election
on November 2, 2021. Given the amount of time needed to adequately
educate the public regarding the project, the earliest a referendum should be
held is November 2021.
In order to place this issue before the voters, a Council resolution must be
submitted to the Story County Auditor at least 46 days in advance of the election.
The last regular scheduled City Council meeting 46 days before November 2 is
September 14.
3
To educate the public for the vote, an informational campaign would be organized
and would require funding from the City Council. Issues that should addressed in
the informational campaign include: the features contained in the Aquatics Center,
the location, operating costs, user fees, and the unusual funding situation whereby
it would be estimated that property owners would only have to pay taxes of
$7,494,000 of a total project cost of $27,494,000.
3. Hybrid Urban Renewal and Referendum Election
Under this option, the Council would separately approve $10,000,000 in Essential
Corporate Purpose G.O. bonds within the Urban Renewal Area (subject to a
reverse referendum) and authorize a $7,494,000 G.O. Bond referendum election.
Although the same total of G.O. Bonds would be issued, a possible rationale to
bifurcate these bond issuances is to isolate the benefit of the Reinvestment District
revenue.
With any of the three options highlighted above, the City Council could reduce the
amount needed to be financed by the taxpayers by eliminating the second floor of
the Aquatics Center which is intended to house the walking track and exercise area.
This approach would reduce the gap from $7,494,000 to $2,805,000.
LINCOLN WAY REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT (CLARK TO KELLOGG):
As you will recall, our Reinvestment District application represented a development
concept that was originally presented to the City Council. The proposal described in the
application included a full-service hotel (136 rooms), conference space (23,000 sq. ft.),
hotel restaurant, office space (75,465 sq. ft.), residential apartments (71 units),
retail/restaurant space (14,500 sq. ft.), and a large outdoor plaza space.
The staff was aware at the time of preparing the application that the property owner was
continuing talks with various development teams and the project might be altered, but not
so significantly that it would jeopardize eligibility for the Reinvestment District incentive
funding.
On June 28, 2021, City staff met with the property owner and his development team for
an update about the project. The developer described an updated concept that would
include some of public parking located in a garage north of the tracks, in our Central
Business District parking lot behind Wells Fargo, with a pedestrian bridge connection to
the south over the railroad tracks. The developer described how adjusting the location of
parking would allow for a more intensive development on the Lincoln Way site. While the
final square footages have not been determined, along with a full-service hotel and
conference meeting space, they are exploring more residential and office space than was
included in previous concepts. The additional square footage would help the developer
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more efficiently develop the site and the City would realize more of its vision for the Focus
Area with additional uses.
A significant amount of work remains for the developer to complete a detailed concept
and financing plans for staff to evaluate and then present to the City Council. These plans
and accompanying developer agreement would need to be finalized by the end of
2021. This is necessary to complete the final Reinvestment District application by
February 2022.
DOWNTOWN PLAZA:
6th Street Parking Lot
Since public parking spaces in the lot east of City Hall will be removed to make way for
this new public gathering space, a new parking lot will be constructed on the north side
of 6th Street across from the City Hall. This land was purchased by the City with federal
Community Development Block Grant funds as a potential site for affordable housing.
However, efforts to attract developers for this type of housing proved unsuccessful as it
was learned that the property was not large enough for developers to generate a sufficient
return on their investment.
Therefore, the next step is to repay Department of Housing and Urban Development
(HUD) for the appraised value property. Staff intends to bring this matter before the City
Council in July. The $200,000 required to reimburse the HUD is included in the FY
2020/21 budget. along with $275,000 for the design and construction of the new parking
lot on 6th Street.
Public Works staff has hired Bolton and Menk to design the new parking lot north of City
Hall along 6th Street. This parking area will replace part of the parking displaced by the
plaza project. It currently is planned that the project will be bid in September 2021 with
construction anticipated in the spring of 2022. The new parking spaces along the west
side of Clark adjacent to City Hall will be incorporated into the design and construction of
the plaza. The $225,000 to install this additional parking is included FY 2020/21.
Plaza
In July, staff plans to bring a recommendation to the Council to waive Purchasing Policies
and Procedures and authorize the hiring of Confluence to design the new Downtown
Plaza. This company developed the plaza concept and cost projections for the
Reinvestment District application and therefore, is most familiar with our project. Second,
by contracting with this company immediately, we can avoid a time consuming bidding
process that would cause the project to be delayed by another year.
The current plan is for the plaza project to be bid in December 2021 with
construction beginning in the summer of 2022. The FY 2020/21 budget includes
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$3,925,000 for the design, installation of the parking to the west of Kellogg, the
construction of the plaza, and the commission for a signature art piece.
Artwork
The plaza concept includes three elements of public art, with a focus on a signature large
sculpture at the center of the plaza. The total estimated budget for artists’ commissions,
fabrication, and installation by the artists is $340,000. This amount is included within the
$3,925,000 total plaza budget. Due to central location, creative interests, and size of the
signature sculpture, staff believes a Request for Qualifications to select an artist is the
best approach.
Staff plans to work with a subcommittee of the Public Art Commission to release an RFQ
for the signature art sculpture with a budget of $150,000-$175,000 in July. The proposals
will be reviewed by a committee of staff and Public Art Commission representatives.
Selection of the artist and beginning work on concepts for sculpture in September and
October is critical to finalizing the overall plaza design plans by December. The other
planned artwork elements will be decided at a later date once the final plan for the Plaza
is approved.
ONONDAGA PROPERTIES (330 5TH STREET/412 BURNETT):
This project, which was under construction, was added to the Reinvestment District
application to take advantage of the retail sales that were projected from the
redevelopment of these properties into new retail/restaurant space. The renovation of this
property is progressing very well and the Nelson family has done a wonderful job
revitalizing these buildings.
STAFF COMMENTS:
A final Reinvestment District application is necessary to secure the $10 million
provisionally approved by the State. Based upon the original projections for the Lincoln
Way project itself, it appears that the Lincoln Way project alone could be the sole source
of retail sales tax and hotel motel tax receipts needed to support the $10 million of
Reinvestment District funds pledged by the State. The final application requires updated
project plans, project pro forma, and revenue projections to meet State requirements.
The final application is due to the State by February 25, 2022. To meet this deadline
staff believes that all of Reinvestment District project components must be
solidified by December 31 to allow time for staff and its economic consultant to
complete their final evaluation and projections for the Reinvestment District
Application.
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The critical components to move forward on this project are: 1) Resolving the
projected funding gap for the aquatics center, 2) Creating an Urban Renewal Area,
and 3) Reaching an agreement with the developer of the Lincoln Way project, which
represents the primary source of the projected Reinvestment District revenue. The
Lincoln Way project will likely include a conceptual development plan with a developer
agreement approved by City Council, followed by a more detailed Major Site
Development Plan that is also subject to City Council approval prior to development of
each building on the site.
To move forward with the Reinvestment District projects, the first major decision
for the City Council is to determine which of the three financing options for the
Aquatics Center highlighted above should be pursued. It should be emphasized
that the Staff is not seeking a decision at the July 13th meeting regarding which of
the three financing options the City Council wishes to pursue. This can come at
later date. However, if a referendum option is preferred, it would be beneficial to
make this decision as soon as possible so that there is plenty of time to present an
adequate public informational campaign.
ITEM # 27
DATE: 07-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: AWARD OF DOWNTOWN FAÇADE GRANTS
BACKGROUND:
The Downtown Façade Grant Program was introduced in 2000 to facilitate private
improvements to downtown retail and other commercial storefronts. The City Council
annually budgets $50,000 as matching funds for eligible projects. The program allows for
up to $15,000 of dollar-for-dollar matching funds per front façade and up to $1,000 for
additional architectural services. This program is available to property owners within the
area generally described as from 6th Street to the railroad tracks, from Duff Avenue to
Northwestern Avenue, and along Kellogg Avenue to Lincoln Way (Attachment 1).
The program requires compliance with specified Design Guidelines that can be found on
the Planning Division website at this link. The program requirements include a
prerequisite of a ground floor use of office or retail trade. Additionally, grant eligibility
includes a requirement for proposed improvements to retain the historic façade or for the
removal of non-compliant elements consistent with the guidelines or pursue eligibility
under the other façade guidelines.
The program does not allow for maintenance activities or replacement of compliant
elements with new in-kind elements as eligible activities on their own. Proposed
improvements are intended to have a significant positive visual impact on the
building and the district overall. If grant requests exceed the available funding, the
program criteria include preferences for façades that have not received previous funding,
for front façades. Attachment 2 provides an overview of the intent and process for the
façade grant program.
The program is designed to operate with two application cycles. The first cycle is typically
in the summer and if there are remaining funds after awards are granted in the first round,
then a second application round occurs in the winter. The summer grant round is intended
to provide funding for new projects with one grant per building. The second round is
intended to fund new projects and potentially second façades for properties that have
already received a grant.
There was one application approved in the first round during the fall of FY 2020/21. The
current applications under review were solicited in late spring and are considered second
round applications for FY 2020/21. Solicitation for applications with FY 2021/22 money
will occur in the fall of 2021.
GRANT APPLICATIONS RECEIVED:
The City solicited applications for this round in June 2021 and received four eligible grant
requests for four properties. Project summaries, a location map, and project design
illustrations are attached. The total requested grant funding is $62,000. Available
funding for this second round of FY 2020/21 is $53,001.
Address Business or Building Name Requested Project
108 Main Street Vacant (Formerly Cyclone Barber) $15,000 $ 33,469
209 & 211 Main Street 209: Heroic Hair
211: Heroic Ink $15,000
$62,000 $194,969
108 Main Street
This is a grant request for a single-story façade at 108 Main Street, which most recently
housed Cyclone Barber. This building is the easternmost in a series of seven shallow
buildings at the east end of Main Street. Several of these buildings have already been
awarded façade grants (110, 116, and 122). The applicant is proposing to continue with
the unified design proposed for 122, completed in 2013. The façades for 110 and 116
were completed to the same design in 2020.
The subject property, 108 Main Street, is the end of a series of buildings, numbered 108-
122, which were constructed around 1908 in a unified design that repeated identical
storefronts across each commercial space. The railyard for the Chicago & North Western
Railroad originally came up to the rear of the buildings on the south side of Main Street,
creating the shallow depth (108 is an average of 30 feet deep; 122 is an average of 42
feet deep). The buildings are each 16 feet wide (110 is two storefronts wide).
LCM Properties, LLC owns the buildings at 108 Main Street, along with 110, 116, and
122 Main Street. The façades on those buildings have already been awarded grants; that
work has all been completed. In 2013, when the grant for 122 Main Street was
considered, a unified façade design for these buildings was proposed. The current
request intends to continue that design. The façade will maintain the entrance in
the same location and will have display windows in the same location, though
larger in height than what exists. The applicant has stated that the entrance to 108
will remain recessed, which staff supports. (Attachment 4)
The series of buildings is included within the bounds of the National Register Ames Main
Street Historic District. The buildings are contributing to the district.
The total estimated cost for 108 Main Street is $33,469.60. It is eligible for the maximum
grant of $15,000. The design work has already been completed and is no longer eligible.
At the time of reimbursement, the applicant will need to provide cost breakdowns to
ensure only eligible activities are funded with the façade grant. Staff notes that project
must conform to building code recessed entry and accessibility requirements as has been
required for the previous façade grant approvals.
WORK COST ESTIMATES
Construction of new façade with brick, glass, stucco, etc.
209 & 211 Main Street
This application is for the two-story buildings at 209 and 211 Main Street. The applicant
proposes to create a new unified façade on the ground level with a single entrance
including a vestibule at the property line (the second story of the historic façade remains
unaltered). The vestibule would lead into each existing storefront. The storefronts
currently contain a hair and nail salon (Heroic Hair at 209) and a tattoo parlor (Heroic Ink
at 211). The applicant also proposes to restore the window openings on the second story
of 211. This project is eligible for two grants as there are two separate buildings,
although they will share a common entrance.
These two properties are owned by Beaver Team 5 Holdings LLC-CTR and are presently
occupied by a hair and nail salon (Heroic Hair at 209) and a tattoo parlor (Heroic Ink at
211). The buildings were constructed separately: 211 was built in 1888 and records are
unclear as to when 209 was constructed. At some point during the period of significance
for Main Street (1920-1950), the façades of the two buildings were combined and unified.
Historic photographs indicate that the two buildings operated separately after the new
façade. By 1971, the ground-level façade had been combined into one storefront. Later,
the storefronts were separated and housed a check-cashing business and a boutique.
Both buildings are contributing structures to the National Register Ames Main Street
Historic District.
The applicant is proposing a new, unified façade at the ground level. The proposed façade
will mirror the rhythm and spacing of the second story windows. The ground-level
storefront windows will be below the second story windows and the new entrance will be
placed between the windows (Attachment 5). The second story of 211 has had its
windows reduced in size. The applicant proposes to restore the windows to their original
size. All second story windows will be replaced to match one another in size and style.
The total estimated cost for 209 & 211 Main Street is $110,500, including design work.
Of that amount, $83,000 is estimated to be grant-eligible work (including design). Since
the project contains two buildings, it is eligible for a maximum funding of $30,000
($15,000 per façade) plus $1,000 for design work. At the time of reimbursement, the
applicant will need to provide cost breakdowns to ensure only eligible activities are funded
with the façade grant.
WORK ELIGIBLE COST
ESTIMATES
TOTAL COST
ESTIMATES
209
211
301 Main Street
This application is for a replacement canopy and sign for the Sheldon-Munn apartment
building at 301 Main Street. The new canopy would replace the existing one on the
Kellogg Avenue façade with a historically appropriate design emulating the art deco
canopy found in photographs from the period of significance for the Historic District. A
new sign would be added to the canopy as well.
Note that canopies can be an eligible item for a grant, but signage and lettering is viewed
as a temporary improvement and not eligible for a grant. Staff has discussed with the
applicant that only the canopy structure itself is potentially eligible for grant funding. As
noted in the introduction to the report, in kind replacement items are not typically an
eligible item on their own. This project is a replacement canopy as the storefront work
was previously completed with grants awarded in 2015.
This property is owned by 301 Main LLC. Built originally as the Sheldon-Munn Hotel in
1917, an addition was constructed on the west side in 1926. The hotel was later converted
to apartments. The building was awarded multiple façade grants in 2015 to restore the
ground-floor retail spaces.
The intent of the canopy project is to mimic the art deco style seen in historic photographs
(Attachment 6). This art deco canopy, and another on Main Street, replaced the original
more formal canopies in the late 1920s or 1930s. The City’s design guidelines for
canopies require canopies to be metal compared to awnings that are fabric. The applicant
has not indicated detailed materials to ensure this design intent will be met as depicted
and conform to guideline definitions. To approve this grant, Council would need to
determine if it is consistent the Design Guideline for “restoring documented
canopy treatments.”
The storefront north of the entrance to the apartment lobby was recently converted to a
cocktail lounge called Noir. Prior to the façade grants in 2015, this space was occupied
by Firehouse Books. The proposed canopy intends to incorporate a sign for Noir. The
owners of the Sheldon-Munn and Noir anticipate expanding to the basement, which can
be accessed from the current apartment entrance on Kellogg Avenue.
The Sheldon-Munn is within the bounds of the National Register Ames Main Street
Historic District and is a contributing structure. The total estimated cost for 301 Main
Street is $51,000. This cost includes the sign that is not an eligible cost. The project would
be eligible for the maximum funding of $15,000 plus $1,000 in design work. At the time of
reimbursement, the applicant will need to provide cost breakdowns to ensure only eligible
activities are funded with the façade grant, which is a maximum of 50% of eligible costs.
WORK COST ESTIMATES
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve Downtown Façade Improvement Grants totaling up to $53,001 for:
a. 108 Main Street in the amount of estimated eligible costs up to $15,000 for a
façade to match the existing façades already approved for the series of
buildings.
b. 209 & 211 Main Street in the amount of estimated eligible costs up to $31,000
for window replacement and a new, unified façade on the ground level.
c. 301 Main Street in the amount of estimated eligible costs up to $7,001 for a
replacement canopy on Kellogg Avenue, subject to staff review and approval
of materials for a metal canopy meeting the design guidelines and historic
intent.
2. Approve Downtown Façade Improvement Grants totaling up to $46,000 for:
a. 108 Main Street in the amount of estimated eligible costs up to $15,000 for a
façade to match the existing façades already approved for the series of
buildings.
b. 209 & 211 Main Street in the amount of estimated eligible costs up to $31,000
for window replacement and a new, unified façade on the ground level.
3. Approve grant awards in some other combination of amounts.
4. Do not approve façade grant awards.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The fiscal year 2020-21 permitted two rounds of grant solicitations: one in the fall and one
in spring. One application was submitted in fall 2020. The current round resulted in four
requests involving four buildings for a total of four grants in the amount of $62,000. All the
buildings front on Main Street, though one grant is proposed for use on Kellogg Avenue.
The total requested funding exceeds available funding. Staff finds the two Main Street
façade projects to be compliant with the design guidelines, visually significant, and
priorities due to their Main Street locations. These projects are of the highest priority and
warrant full funding as requested.
The third project for the replacement canopy has minimal visual significance as a canopy
because of the existing canopy it replaces. However, the proposed sign is clearly more
striking, but not an eligible project. Replacement-in-kind of a feature is not on its own a
typical eligible activity. However, as a second round of applications for a second request
related to a previously approved façade grant, City Council could award the remaining
funds ($7,001) if the Council finds the project consistent with the Design Guidelines of
restoring documented canopy treatments and that the canopy replacement is visually
significant.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council
approve Alternative #1, thereby approving Downtown Façade Improvement Grants
for the four façade grants as noted above.
Attachment 1: Eligibility Map
Attachment 2: Downtown Façade Grant Review
Requirements for all Façade Grants
The building must be located downtown within boundaries established by City Council.
The ground floor must be Office Uses or Trade Uses as defined by the Ames zoning
ordinance.
The façade design must comply with Downtown Design Guidelines.
Improvements to historic façades shall include replacing non-compliant elements with
compliant elements.
Residential structures and buildings owned by the government, churches and other religious
institutions are not eligible.
No façade grant shall exceed $15,000.
Program Logistics
The following process for review of applications for façade grants provides time to inform all
potential applicants of the opportunity, to work with applicants, applicants to prepare submittals
and for staff to review applications and report to City Council. Two grant periods will be planned
for each fiscal year.
First Grant Period
For this first grant period, preference for grant awards will be given to:
- façades that have not received any previous grant funding
- front façades
Action Steps:
Staff will inform all property and business owners of grant availability, process, and deadlines.
Staff will work with applicants to define the project, ensure that it meets the guidelines, and
assure that it is feasible and can be completed within the time frame.
Applications will be accepted in May and June.
Staff will review and score applications and report to City Council in July or August for
awarding grants.
Projects may then start in the fall and be potentially completed before the holiday shopping
season.
Second Grant Period
If the entire budget is not committed in the first grant period in each year, a second grant period
will begin in October for projects to be implemented the following spring. While façades on Main
Street and façades for which no previous grants have been awarded will still receive first
preference in this second grant period, all downtown grant requests will be considered and
potentially approved if funds remain after all first-preference proposals are awarded.
Conditions of Grant Approval
Grant projects must be completed within one year from award of grant.
Any required building code and/or safety improvements to a structure must be completed
before grant work proceeds or before grant funds are paid.
Attachment 3: Scoring Criteria
For each category, the following criteria shall be used to award points:
VISUAL IMPACT Maximum Score 30 Points
Improvements apply to more than one story on one façade
Improvements apply to more than one 25-foot wide bay on one façade
Improvements will create more visual significance because:
- key, highly visual elements of the building are being improved
- the building is prominently visible due to its location (E.g., it serves as a focal point from
a street, is at a prominent intersection, or is larger than other buildings around it)
FINANCIAL IMPACT Maximum Score 30 Points
Matching funds exceed the minimum dollar-for-dollar match
The project includes improvements being made to
- ensure public safety,
- establish or preserve the building’s structural integrity
- resist water and moisture penetration
- correct other serious safety issues
The façade project is part of a larger project that improves other exterior or interior parts of
the building
The project helps to make use of space that has been unoccupied or used only for storage
EXTENT OF IMPROVEMENTS Maximum Score 20 Points
The number points granted in this category shall be based upon the number of elements from the
Downtown Design Guidelines being improved. More improved elements deserve more points.
HISTORIC DESIGN Maximum Score 20 Points
Project includes historically appropriate materials and restoration techniques
Project goes beyond basic rehabilitation and re-establishes a more historically accurate
appearance than other projects
Attachment 4: 108 Main Street
Historic Photograph of Subject Property (108 Main Street is the storefront on the left)
Proposed Final Façade (108 Main Street is the storeront on the left)
Attachment 5: 209 & 211 Main Street
Façades for 209 (above) & 211 (below) Main Street
Proposed Final Façade
Attachment 6: 301 Main Street
Historic Photograph of Sign on Main Street Side
Sign as Proposed for Kellogg Avenue
1
ITEM# ___28__
DATE: 07-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: RETAIN OWNERSHIP AND RETURN FUNDS TO THE DEPARTMENT OF
HOUSING AND URBAN (HUD) FOR THE CITY OWNED PROPERTIES
ALONG 6TH STREET (519, 525, & 601) IN CONNECTION WITH THE CITY’S
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM (CDBG).
BACKGROUND:
At the March 9, 2021, City Council directed staff to proceed with the Change of Use Designation
for the three City owned lots located at 519, 525 & 601 Sixth Street (former Ames Community
Preschool Center toddler house and playground, see Attachment A). This Change of Use
Designation (under HUD regulations) from affordable housing would allow the staff to proceed
with the sale of the lots at market value and the return the funding originally spent to acquire the
site back to HUD. The retuned funds would be reallocated to the City’s CDBG Program and are
then planned to be used towards the cost of infrastructure improvements at the Baker Subdivision
along State Avenue. The market value of the lots has been appraised at $198,000.
At the January 26, 2021 City Council meeting, regarding the Downtown Plaza update, City
Council gave direction to budget $198,000 for the City to reimburse HUD and retain ownership
of the properties in order to use the site for replacement downtown parking. With City Council’s
authorization to move forward on the change of use of the 6th Street properties, the $198,000 will
be refunded back to HUD from the General Fund budget. Staff would like to finalize this
reimbursement back to HUD on or before July 31, 2021 in order to move forward with the parking
lot project and for support of Baker Subdivision.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. The City Council can adopt a resolution approving the return of $198,000 of City
funding to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the City-
owned properties located at 519, 525, & 601 Sixth Street, to be reprogramed for use
for the infrastructure improvements at the Baker Housing Subdivision along State
Avenue.
2. The City Council can deny adoption of a resolution approving the return of $198,000
of City funding to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the
City-owned properties located at 519, 525, & 601 Sixth Street, to be reprogramed for
use for the infrastructure improvements at the Baker Housing Subdivision along State
Avenue.
3. The City Council can refer the matter back to staff for other considerations.
2
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Retaining ownership of these three lots will be in the City’s best interest to further development
of the Downtown Plaza, while also providing needed funding to our CDBG infrastructure
improvements budget for the development of affordable housing in the Baker Subdivision
along 321 State Avenue. With City Council’s direction to move forward, the process to rezone
the site to Special Purpose Government/Airport (SGA) will begin in July. The parking lot design
will then be completed and planned for construction in the Spring of 2022.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative #1 thereby adopting a resolution to return $198,000 of City funding to the
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This action will allow the City-
owned properties located at 519, 525, & 601 Sixth Street to be converted to a new City
parking lot and provide for additional funding for infrastructure improvements at the Baker
Housing Subdivision along State Avenue.
3
ATTACHMENT A
ITEM #: 29
DATE: 07-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: REZONE PARCELS AT 4605 & 4514 HYDE AVENUE (PROPOSED
AUBURN TRAIL SUBDIVISION) FROM “A” (AGRICULTURAL) TO “FS-
RL” (SUBURBAN LOW-DENSITY RESIDENTIAL) WITH A MASTER
PLAN AND CONTRACT ZONING AGREEMENT
BACKGROUND:
The proposed rezoning includes two parcels totaling 75.17 acres, addressed as 4605
Hyde Avenue and 4514 Hyde Avenue. Annexation for the property at 4605 Hyde Avenue
was approved on December 12, 2017, and annexation for 4514 Hyde Avenue was
approved on March 23, 2021. A general location map is included as Attachment A. Hyde
Avenue bisects the two properties. Most of the 4605 Hyde property has been farmed and
is devoid of trees. The property at 4514 Hyde Avenue includes one existing house.
The properties are proposed to be rezoned together with a Master Plan to allow for a
future development of both sites as a combined development. A Master Plan addresses
the general layout of development and open space areas along with planned
transportation connections, however, it does not depict precise locations of future
improvements. The future development, i.e., subdivisions, must be in conformance with
an approved Master Plan.
The Master Plan would permit the development of multiple housing types with a
maximum total of 181 dwelling units. The Contract rezoning addresses needed off-
site improvements related to the development of the site for an extension of a
shared use path and streets to the north.
The property at 4605 Hyde was the subject of a pre-annexation agreement in 2013. The
owner entered into an agreement with the City for, among other things, buyout of rural
water rights and cost sharing of infrastructure. In this Agreement, the Developer also
agreed that infrastructure would be designed to mitigate the environmental impact of
development within the Ada Hayden Watershed and that the site would be subject to the
Conservation Subdivision Ordinance. The proposed rezoning is consistent with the 2013
Agreement. Infrastructure improvements that were included in the Agreement are
discussed in the Addendum.
The subject site has a Village/Suburban Residential Land Use Designation (see
Attachment B). The owner proposes the development of a residential subdivision to
be known as Auburn Trail and is requesting a rezoning from Agricultural (A) to
Suburban Residential Low Density (FS-RL). FS-RL is a consistent zoning district
with the underlying land use designation. FS-RL requires a minimum net
development density of 3.75 units per acre and a maximum density of 10 units per acre.
The proposed Master Plan illustrates two categories of development: Single-Family
Attached/Detached with 98 to 111 dwelling units and Single-Family
Townhomes/Small Lots with 50 to 70 dwelling units, on approximately 36.29 acres.
The applicant will likely apply for a Planned Unit Development (PUD) Overlay in the future
for the development of part of the site as small lot homes.
The density within the developable area is estimated at approximately 4.1 to 5 dwelling
units per acre. Note that with the Master Plan, the unit count is controlling along with the
minimum and maximum net density standards of FS-RL zoning. The Plan depicts the
extension of existing streets from the south into the site and new streets that would
extend to the north connecting into future development. A new “spine road” would
connect from Hyde Avenue into Hayden’s Preserve on the north.
In addition to identifying developable area, the Master Plan shows approximately 22.58
acres, more than the required 25% of the property, as interconnected conservation areas
and open space distributed throughout the development.
The Master Plan identifies the planned approach to meeting the requirements of
the City’s Conservation Subdivision Ordinance that will apply to development of
the property. The open space is oriented around a first order stream, wetlands, and
natural drainage ways as identified on a Natural Resource Inventory of the properties. A
buffer is shown on the north side of the first order stream which is located on the eastern
parcel (4514 Hyde Avenue). Notably, the 4514 Hyde property has a 100-foot shared
boundary with the City’s Ada Hayden park.
At the time of annexation, a 50-foot strip of property was required to remain along the
north property line to connect to unincorporated land located to the north and east of the
site. The 50-foot strip is also owned by Hunziker but is under county jurisdiction. This strip
of land is known as Outlot A and requires public improvements to connect to the future
development to the north known as Hayden’s Preserve,
Staff recommends addressing planned off-site infrastructure extensions through
the 50-foot strip with the rezoning of this site through a Contract Rezoning
Agreement (see Attachment I) that includes the requirement for the property owner
to extend infrastructure from the site through the abutting properties that are under
their control. This would require the construction of the shared use path along
Hyde Avenue and for the future improvements of the public street extension of the
spine road and water and sewer lines to the north. The timing of the Hyde Avenue
path construction matches the recent Hayden’s Preserve agreement, the path must
be built within two years of the approval of the 1st Addition of the project.
Planning and Zoning Commission. The Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed
the request on June 2, 2019 and voted 5-0 to recommend the City Council approve the
rezoning with master plan for the property at 4605 Hyde Avenue and 4514 Hyde Avenue
to FS-RL Suburban Residential Low Density. At the meeting members of public were
present and provide comments on the proposed rezoning. Numerous residents of
Bloomington Heights West and Bloomington Court (to the south) spoke of stormwater
drainage concerns related to existing conditions. The Bloomington Heights West
development has existing storm water conveyance easements and storm sewers located
partially along the shared boundary with the proposed Auburn Trail. A drainage channel
also exists to the east of Hyde Avenue and it carries water from existing development and
will also carry water from the planned development of Auburn Trail to Ada Hayden.
Although the Master Plan depicts general drainage patterns and planned open spaces
for the development of the site, there is not a precise storm water management plan
available for the site at this time. A storm water management plan is required as part of
the Conservation Subdivision review of the site, which is the next step for development
of the site, after rezoning.
Public Notice. Notice was mailed to property owners within 200 feet of the subject site
and a sign was posted on the subject property in accordance with the notification
requirements of Chapter 29.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. A. Approve a Contract Rezoning Agreement for the 75.17- acre property at 4605
Hyde Avenue and 4514 Hyde Avenue (see Attachment I)
B. Approve on first reading the request for rezoning the 75.17- acre property at
4605 Hyde Avenue and 4514 Hyde Avenue from Agricultural (A) to Suburban
Low Density Residential (FS-RL) with the attached Master Plan (see
Attachment F), based upon the findings and conclusions as found in the
addendum.
2. Deny the request for rezoning.
3. Refer this item back to City staff and/or the applicant for additional information.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
As noted in the attached addendum, the proposed rezoning is consistent with the Land
Use Policy Plan land use designations and policies. The applicant has generally
designated open space in areas identified as wetlands and where existing grades
currently convey or collect stormwater with housing located around these areas.
The proposed housing types are allowed in the proposed zoning. Further information
regarding density and open space measures will be specified with the subsequent
preliminary plat. The Master Plan is consistent with the limitations noted in the pre-
annexation agreement approved by the City Council in 2013.
Terms of the proposed Contract Rezoning Agreement will ensure there is no gap between
the development of this site and future development to the north. The Contract includes
the requirement for the construction of the shared use path along Hyde to be completed
as part of Phase 1 of the development.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative #1 A & B, as described above.
ADDENDUM
REZONING BACKGROUND:
Existing Land Use Policy Plan. The LUPP designation of the entire subject area is
Village/Suburban Residential. The proposed change of zone to FS-RL is consistent with
that designation. The LUPP designations of this and adjoining properties can be found in
Attachment B.
The applicant has provided support materials (see Attachment H) regarding the proposed
rezoning and its conformance with the Land Use Policy Plan. While the rezoning of an
area designated as Village/Suburban Residential on the LUPP to FS-RL is supported,
there are several goals that can support the proposed rezoning.
Goal No. 2. In preparing for the target population and employment growth, it is the goal
of Ames to assure the adequate provision and availability of developable land. It is the
further goal of the community to guide the character, location, and compatibility of growth
with the area’s natural resources and rural areas.
Goal No. 3. It is the goal of Ames to assure that it is an “environmentally-friendly”
community and that all goals and objectives are integrated with this common goal. In
continuing to serve as a concentrated area for human habitat and economic activity, Ames
seeks to be compatible with its ecological systems in creating an environmentally
sustainable community.
Existing Zoning. The site is zoned Agricultural (A). When a property is annexed into the
City it receives a default zoning of Agricultural (A) until at such time that the property
owner chooses to rezone.
To the east are scattered homesteads within the county, zoned Agricultural (A-1). To the
north, the proposed Hayden’s Preserve Subdivision (formerly Rose Prairie) is zoned FS-
RL with some scattered county homesteads in the county zoned Agricultural Residential
(A-R) and a communication tower. To the south, Bloomington Heights West is zoned RL
and F-PRD and Bloomington Court is zoned F-PRD. West of the site are large properties
outside of the City limits and zoned Agricultural (A-1). An excerpt of the zoning map can
be found in Attachment C. The proposed rezoning is reflected in Attachment D.
Existing Uses of Land. Land uses that occupy the subject property and other
surrounding properties are described in the following table:
Direction from
Subject Property
Existing Land Uses
North
East
South (Bloomington Heights West) and Condominiums &
West
Master Plan. A Master Plan is intended to provide a general description of the intended
development of a property. A Master Plan must address natural areas, buildable areas,
building types, range of uses, and basic access points as described in zoning
requirements of Section 29.1507(4) (see Attachment F).
The submitted Master Plan proposes two housing types- Single-Family
Attached/Detached with 98 to 111 dwelling units and Single-Family Townhomes/Small
Lots with 50 to 70 dwelling units, on approximately 36.29 acres, with a minimum net
development density of 3.75 units per acre.
In addition, the Master Plan shows approximately 22.58 acres, more than the required
25% of the property, as interconnected conservation areas and open space distributed
throughout the development. The open space is oriented around a first order stream,
wetlands, and natural drainage ways as identified on a Natural Resource Inventory of the
properties. A buffer is planned on the north side of the first order stream which is located
on the eastern parcel (4514 Hyde Avenue). A buffer to each side of the drainage corridor
that weaves throughout the development will be included. The Conservation Subdivision
requires that mass grading of the site be avoided. The majority of the property has been
farmed and is devoid of trees.
Development of the site will be under the Conservation Subdivision standards of Ames
Municipal Code. The Ames Conservation Subdivision standards are to protect the quality
of water in Ada Hayden Lake, protect existing surface drainage systems, promote
interconnected greenways, provide commonly owned open space and conservation
areas. Conservation easements will be established for all conservation areas and
maintained according to a conservation area management plan that is required during the
subdivision process.
Layout and specific design of the site will be evaluated at the time of preliminary plat
review. Attached single-family homes also require an administrative site development
plan review after subdivision. The minimum density standard is 3.75 dwelling units per
net acre. Full review of net acreage limitations will occur with the subsequent preliminary
plat subdivision review.
The subject site has a Village/Suburban Residential Land Use Designation (see
Attachment B). The owner proposes the development of a residential subdivision to be
known as Auburn Trail and is requesting a rezoning from A-Agriculture to FS-RL
Suburban Residential Low Density. FS-RL is a consistent zoning district with the
underlying land use designation. FS-RL requires a minimum net development density of
3.75 units per acre. A Master Plan accompanies the rezoning request. A full description
of the rezoning process and plan is included in the attached addendum.
Infrastructure. During the Land Use Policy Plan review associated with the initial
annexation request, an analysis of the necessary infrastructure to accommodate
residential development was undertaken.
Water - The property at 4605 Hyde was also part of a buyout of service territory
agreement with Xenia Rural Water Association in January 2014. The property at 4514
Hyde is presently served by Xenia Rural Water. The division of this parcel would require
any new parcels/lots to connect to City water services. An agreement with the property
owner and Xenia would be necessary for this to occur. Auburn Trail is within a City water
connection district. The City previously undertook the extension of water service to the
property. Connection fees would be paid at the time of development. This is addressed
by the current pre-annexation agreement.
Sewer- Auburn Trail is within a City sanitary sewer connection district. The City previously
undertook the extension of sanitary sewer service to the property. Connection fees would
be paid at the time of development.
Electric- Auburn Trail lies within the Ames Electric service territory. The 2013 Agreement
directed that the developer would provide easements at no cost to the City for electric
distribution or transmission lines and public utilities.
Special Assessments and Off-site traffic improvements- The 2013 Agreement included
an assessment for the improvement of Grant Avenue from West 190th Street (at the north
end) to Hyde Avenue (at the south end). An assessment schedule was included. Also
included within the assessment was the developer’s share of costs associated with traffic
signals at Hyde Avenue / Bloomington Road and Grand Avenue / Bloomington Road with
the provision that the amount could be updated based upon cost at the time of Final Plat.
Given the 2013 Pre-annexation Agreement cost-sharing requirements for infrastructure
extension and roadway improvements, City staff believes that these have been
sufficiently addressed.
Access. Primary access to the site would be from Hyde Avenue. The developer is
completing as assessment of intersection operations for access to the site to be included
with the future subdivision. Staff expects that the study will support a requirement for the
developer to provide turning lanes at the intersection of Hyde and the new spine road.
Auburn Trail will be well-connected with public roads to existing development both to the
south and to future development to the north. Crestmoor Avenue and Welbeck Drive
which are existing streets currently stubbed at the south property line would be extended
into the site. Two street connections to the north will connect into the street network from
Hayden’s Preserve (formerly Rose Prairie). Auburn Trails will be responsible to connect
through the 50-foot county piece to the north into Rose Prairie. An Acquisition Plat would
be recorded to address the public right-of-way dedication and city maintenance of the
infrastructure through the county parcel (Outlot A). The extension of the infrastructure is
needed to avoid having a gap in the system and are part of the proposed Contract
Rezoning Agreement (see Attachment I). An additional stub street will be made to the
north for future connection into land that is currently in the county and undeveloped.
Internal circulation will be reviewed at the time of subdivision.
Shared Use Paths and Trails- The 2013 Agreement also directed that the developer
would provide easements at no cost to the City for shared use paths. A 10’ shared use
path would be extended along the Hyde frontage of Auburn Trail and would include an
internal shared use path along the new spine road connection to Hayden’s Preserve.
These improvements need to extend to adjacent properties to avoid having a gap in the
system and are part of the proposed Contract Rezoning Agreement (see Attachment H).
The contract rezoning agreement includes the requirement for the shared use path along
Hyde to be constructed with the first phase of development. Notably that with the
completion of this 1,400 linear feet of path, the developer of Hayden’s Preserve to the
north will then be required to connect to the path and eliminate any gap for the shared
use path extending all the way to 190th Street.
Additionally, the applicant is proposing a trail system that would extend along the south
perimeter of the property, across Hyde Avenue, and beyond into Ada Hayden Park. The
total cost of the trail construction and its connection into the trail network within Ada
Hayden would be the developer’s responsibility. Details on the location of this crossing
and final location of the trail are still being discussed and would be finalized as part of the
preliminary plat approval. For this reason, the Ada Hayden trail is not illustrated on the
Master Plan.
Applicant’s Statements. The applicant has provided an explanation of the reasons for
the rezoning in Attachment H.
Findings of Fact. Based upon an analysis of the proposed rezoning and laws pertinent
to the applicant’s request, staff makes the following findings of fact:
1. Ames Municipal Code Section 29.1507(2) allows owners of 50 percent or more of the
area of the lots in any district desired for rezoning to file an application requesting that
the City Council rezone the property. The property represented by the applicant is
entirely under one ownership representing 100 percent of the property requested for
rezoning.
2. The subject property has been designated on the Land Use Policy Plan (LUPP) Future
Land Use Map as “Village/Suburban Residential.”
3. The “Village/Suburban Residential” land use designation supports the “FS-RL
Suburban Low Density Residential” zoning designation. Under a “FS-RL” zoning
designation, detached and attached single-family housing types are allowed. FS-RL
is consistent with the pre-annexation development agreement.
4. Infrastructure is adequate to serve the site. Auburn Trail is within a City water
connection district and a City sewer connection district. The City previously undertook
the extension of infrastructure to the property. Connection fees would be paid at the
time of development as addressed in the pre-annexation development agreement.
5. The Master Plan identifies developable areas and range of uses consistent with the
proposed FS-RL zoning district. Subsequent development will be subject to
subdivision review.
6. Ames Municipal Code Sec. 29.1507(5) requires approval of a zoning agreement for
an application with a master plan and that all subsequent development comply with
the master plan.
Conclusions. Based upon the analysis in this report, staff concludes that the proposed
rezoning of the subject property is consistent with the Future Land Use Map, as well as
the Goals and Objectives of the City of Ames Land Use Policy Plan. The proposed
rezoning is consistent with the allowances of the proposed FS-RL zoning district and
Master Plan requirements for rezoning.
Attachment A
Location Map
Attachment B
LUPP Future Land Use Map
Attachment C
Existing Zoning
Attachment D
Proposed Zoning
Attachment E
Rezoning Plat
Attachment F
Master Plan
Attachment G
Applicable Regulations
• Land Use Policy Plan (LUPP) Goals, Policies and the Future Land Use Map:
The Land Use Policy Plan (LUPP) Future Land Use Map identifies the land use
designations for the property proposed for rezoning.
• Ames Municipal Code Chapter 29, Section 1507, Zoning Text and Map Amendments,
includes requirements for owners of land to submit a petition for amendment, a
provision to allow the City Council to impose conditions on map amendments,
provisions for notice to the public, and time limits for the processing of rezoning
proposals.
• Ames Municipal Code Chapter 29, Section 1200, Floating Zones, includes a list of uses
that are permitted in the Village Residential, Suburban Residential and Planned
Residential zoning districts and the zone development standards that apply to
properties in those zones.
Per Section 29.1507(4): Master Plan Submittal Requirements:
a. Name of the applicant and the name of the owner of record.
b. Legal description of the property.
c. North arrow, graphic scale, and date.
d. Existing conditions within the proposed zoning boundary and within 200 feet of
the proposed zoning boundary: Project boundary; all internal property
boundaries; public rights-of-way on and adjacent to the site, utilities; easements;
existing structures; topography (contours at two-foot intervals); areas of different
vegetation types; designated wetlands; flood plain and floodway boundaries;
areas designated by the Ames Land Use Policy Plan as Greenways and
Environmentally Sensitive Areas.
e. Proposed zoning boundary lines.
f. Outline and size in acres of areas to be protected from impacts of development.
g. Outline and size in acres of areas proposed of each separate land use and for
each residential unit type.
h. Pattern of arterial streets and trails and off-site transportation connections.
i. For proposed residential development provide the number of unit type for each
area, expressed in a range of the minimum to maximum number to be developed
in each area.
j. For proposed residential development provide a summary table describing all
uses of the total site area, including the number of units per net acre for each unit
type and each zoning area.
Attachment H
Applicant’s Statement
Auburn Trail Subdivision Rezoning
Attachment H
Applicant’s Statement, continued
Attachment I
Contract Rezoning Agreement
(Separate Attachment)
1
ITEM # ___30_
DATE: 7-13-21
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
SUBJECT: WATER POLLUTION CONTROL FACILITY SLUDGE PUMPING
BUILDING IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT
BACKGROUND:
A comprehensive evaluation of the mechanical condition of the Water Pollution Control
Facility was performed in 2012. The outcome of that evaluation was a prioritized schedule
for the repair or replacement of key mechanical equipment associated with solids
handling. The Water Pollution Control Facility (WPCF) Sludge Pumping Building
Improvements Project is the final component of the Digester Improvements CIP projects.
The original scope identified in the FY 2014/15 CIP included replacement of three waste
pumps. Upon further investigation, there are additional improvements that staff is
recommending, as described below. The savings from the Digester Improvements CIP
projects and the digester cover insurance reimbursement will be used to cover the
increased scope of work.
This project will consist of replacing three pumps, seventeen valves, and floor
grating located over the intermediate and final clarifier scum pits. In addition to the
equipment replacement, the building basement, stairwell, and piping will have all
existing coatings removed and be re-coated.
City Council issued a Noticed to Bidders for this project on March 9, 2021. On April
14, 2021, bids were opened and two bids were received. Both were substantially
higher than the Engineer’s Estimate. City Council followed the staff
recommendation and rejected all bids on April 27, 2021.
Staff widened the construction window to include additional time in the winter
months and added two additional pre-approved pump manufacturers in an effort
to increase competitive bidding. City Council reissued a Notice to Bidders on May
25, 2021.
On June 23, 2021, bids were opened. Three bids were received and are summarized
below. As shown in the table, all three bids fell below the Engineer’s Estimate.
Bidder Total Project Bid
Woodruff Construction, Inc $369,700
Engineer’s Estimate $395,000
2
Woodruff Construction, Inc. is the lowest responsive, responsible bidder. Staff is confident
in its ability to perform the work and recommends awarding the project to this firm. If this
bid is accepted, the revised project expense with a 10% contingency included would be
as follows.
Estimated Project Expenses
Construction $ 369,700
Contingency (10% of construction) 36,970
Total Estimated Expenses $ 406,670
The authorized project budget is shown below. The project was designed in-house, so
there are no engineering fees.
Authorized Budget
FY 2020/21 CIP $ 183,000
Digester Improvements CIP Savings 182,742
Digester Cover Insurance Reimbursement 83,330
Total Project Budget $ 449,072
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Award a contract for the Water Pollution Control Facility Sludge Pumping Building
Improvements Project to Woodruff Construction, Inc., of Ames, Iowa, in the amount
of $369,700.
2. Do not award a contract at this time.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The equipment and coatings in the Sludge Pumping Building have reached the end of
their useful life. To ensure that the WPCF remains operational and continues to stay in
compliance, these upgrades are necessary. Bids were solicited in accordance with the
City’s Purchasing Policies and Procedures, and a responsive, responsible low bid was
received that is below the Engineer’s Estimate and within the authorized project funding.
Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt
Alternative No. 1, as described above.