HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - May 25, 2021, Regular Meeting of the Ames City CouncilMINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE AMES AREA
METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE AND
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA MAY 25, 2021
AMES AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION (AAMPO)
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE MEETING
Mayor Haila stated that it was impractical to hold an in-person Council meeting due to the
COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, this meeting was being held as an electronic meeting as allowed
by Section 21.8 of the Iowa Code. The Mayor then provided how the public could participate in the
meeting via internet or by phone.
CALL TO ORDER: The Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (AAMPO)
Transportation Policy Committee meeting, which was being held electronically, was called to order
by Ames Mayor and voting member John Haila at 6:00 p.m. on the 25th day of May, 2021. Other
voting members brought into the meeting were: Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen, City of Ames; Gloria
Betcher, City of Ames; Amber Corrieri, City of Ames; Tim Gartin, City of Ames; Rachel Junck, City
of Ames; David Martin, City of Ames; Linda Murken, Story County Board of Supervisors; and Jacob
Ludwig, Transit Board. Jon Popp, Mayor of Gilbert; and Bill Zinnel, Boone County Supervisor, were
absent.
HEARING ON THE FY 2022 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM
(TPWP): Public Works Director John Joiner explained that this item went before the Committee
in March 2021, and received unanimous approval of the draft version. The item was then open for
public comment for over a month. There were no public comments. Agency partners were able to
review the draft and minimal administrative changes were made based on comments from the
agencies.
The public hearing was opened by the Mayor. He closed the hearing after no one asked to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Ludwig, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-257 approving the Final
FY 2022 Transportation Planning Work Program for submission to the Iowa Department of
Transportation.
Vote on Motion: 9-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON AMENDMENT TO THE FFY 2021-2024 TRANSPORTATION
IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (TIP): Public Works Director John Joiner mentioned that this
Amendment is to add the Clean Air Attainment Program (ICAAP) grant funding that CyRide
received from the Iowa Department of Transportation.
The Mayor opened public comment. It was closed when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Murken, to approve the Amendment to the FFY 2021-2024
Transportation Improvement Program.
Vote on Motion: 9-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
DRAFT FFY 2022-2025 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM AND
SETTING JULY 13, 2021, AS THE DATE OF PUBLIC HEARING: Transportation Planner
Kyle Thompson explained that this item was the Transportation Improvement Program that the
Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (AAMPO) is required to develop every year. The
Draft Federal Fiscal Year 2022-2025 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is the short-range
implementation program for federally funded and regionally significant transportation projects. It
is important for the projects to be listed in the TIP in order to be eligible to receive federal funds. As
part of the process, the AAMPO distributes regional applications for Surface Transportation Block
Grant (STBG) funding or Transportation Alternative Program (TAP). There were two STBG
applications received and no TAP applications. To maintain fiscal constraints, it was recommended
to award $2,814,000 to the City of Ames for the South 16th Street widening project and to award
$225,000 to CyRide for its vehicle replacement project from the STBG funds. Both projects will be
in the FFY 2025. Mr. Thompson mentioned that the next step is a virtual public open house on May
26, 2021 at noon. The public comment period will be open through June and details regarding how
to submit comments can be found on the AAMPO website at www.aampo.org. The Policy
Committee will hold a final public hearing and take action on approval on July 13, 2021.
Moved by Ludwig, seconded by Junck, to approve the Draft FFY 2022-2025 Transportation
Improvement Program and set July 13, 2021, as the date of public hearing.
Vote on Motion: 9-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
POLICY COMMITTEE COMMENTS: No comments were made.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Beatty-Hansen to adjourn the AAMPO Transportation Policy
Committee meeting at 6:08 p.m.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor John Haila called the Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council, which
was being held electronically, to order at 6:09 p.m. with the following Council members
participating: Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen, Gloria Betcher, Amber Corrieri, Tim Gartin, Rachel Junck,
and David Martin. Ex Officio Member Trevor Poundstone was also present.
Mayor Haila stated that it was impractical to hold an in-person Council meeting due to the
COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, this meeting was being held as an electronic meeting as allowed
by Section 21.8 of the Iowa Code. The Mayor then provided how the public could participate in the
meeting via internet or by phone.
Mayor Haila announced that the applicant requested to have Item No. 7i: Class E Liquor License
with Class B Wine Permit, Class C Beer Permit, Carryout, & Sunday Sales - Wheatsfield
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Cooperative, 413 Northwestern to be pulled from the Agenda. Council Member Junck asked to pull
Item 20: Resolution awarding contract to Renewable Energy Group of Ames, Iowa, for CyRide fuel
purchases from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022, in a not-to-exceed amount of $1,072,500 due
to a conflict of interest.
CONSENT AGENDA: Moved by Gartin, seconded by Betcher, 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 May 11, 2021, and Special
City Council Meeting held May 18, 2021
3.Motion approving ownership change for Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit,
Class C Beer Permit, Carryout & Sunday Sales - Casey’s General Store #2560 3020 S Duff
Avenue
4.Motion approving ownership change for Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit,
Class C Beer Permit, Carryout & Sunday Sales - Kum & Go #214 111 Duff Avenue
5.Motion approving ownership change for Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit,
Class C Beer Permit, Carryout & Sunday Sales - Kum & Go #200 4510 Mortensen Road
6.Motion approving ownership change for Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit,
Class C Beer Permit, Carryout & Sunday Sales - Kum & Go #216 203 Welch Avenue
7.Motion approving renewal of the following Beer Permits, Wine Permits and Liquor Licenses:
a.Class C Liquor License with Catering Privilege, Class B Wine Permit, Outdoor
Service & Sunday Sales - Della Viti, 323 Main Street, pending DRAM Shop
Insurance
b.Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service & Sunday Sales - Old Chicago Pizza
& Taproom, 1610 S Kellogg Avenue, pending DRAM Shop Insurance
c.Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit, Class C Beer Permit, Carryout,
& Sunday Sales - Casey’s General Store #2560, 3020 S Duff Avenue
d.Class A Liquor License with Outdoor Service & Sunday Sales - Green Hills
Residents Association, 2200 Hamilton Drive, Ste 100
e.Class E Liquor License with Sunday Sales - MMDG Spirits, 126A Welch Avenue,
pending DRAM Shop Insurance
f.Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit, Class C Beer Permit, Carryout,
& Sunday Sales - Kum & Go #214, 111 Duff Avenue
g.Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit, Class C Beer Permit, Carryout,
& Sunday Sales - Kum & Go #200, 4510 Mortensen Rd
h.Class E Liquor License with Class B Wine Permit, Class C Beer Permit, Carryout,
& Sunday Sales - Kum & Go #216, 203 Welch Avenue
8.RESOLUTION NO. 21-258 setting date of public hearing for June 8, 2021, to authorize
additional uses of General Obligation Bond Series 2017 and Series 2018A to fund extension
of utilities to the East Industrial Area
9.RESOLUTION NO. 21-259 approving revisions to ASSET Policies and Procedures
10.RESOLUTION NO. 21-260 approving request to waive enforcement of the prohibition of
motorized vehicles in Ada Hayden Heritage Park (Municipal Code Section 19.9) to allow the
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Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park to provide golf cart tours to mobility-impaired
individuals
11.RESOLUTION NO. 21-261 approving Agreement with Verbio Nevada, LLC, to accept
biosolids from Ames Water Pollution Control Facility for a period of three years from the
executed date (to be effective upon signed approval from both parties)
12.RESOLUTION NO. 21-262 authorizing payment to StoryComm for annual radio system
subscriber fees in the amount of $133,965.51
13.RESOLUTION NO. 21-263 approving contract with WHKS & Co., of Ames, Iowa, for
Water Pollution Control Site Utility Mapping in an amount not to exceed $53,456
14.RESOLUTION NO. 21-264 approving preliminary plans and specifications and re-issue
Notice to Bidders for WPC Sludge Pumping Building Improvements project; setting June
23, 2021, as bid due date and July 13, 2021, as date of public hearing
15.RESOLUTION NO. 21-265 approving Police Department’s application to and participation
in the Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs Bulletproof Vest Partnership
Program
16.Purchase of Transformers for Electric Services:
a.RESOLUTION NO. 21-266 waiving local consideration accommodation in the
evaluations allowed by the Purchasing Policies
b.RESOLUTION NO. 21-267 awarding contract to RESCO of Ankeny, Iowa, for in
accordance with unit prices bid and quantities ordered inclusive of applicable sales
taxes
17.Purchase of Copper Cable/Wire for Electric Services:
a.RESOLUTION NO. 21-268 awarding contract to RESCO of Ankeny, Iowa, for 6,000
feet of 750 KCMIL Copper Cable in the amount of $197,222.40 (inclusive of Iowa
sales tax)
b.RESOLUTION NO. 21-269 awarding contract to Graybar Electric of Des Moines,
Iowa, for 2,000 feet of Copper Wire in the amount of $10,455.18 (inclusive of Iowa
sales tax)
18.RESOLUTION NO. 21-270 awarding contract to Northway Well and Pump Company of
Waukee, Iowa, for Year Five (5) [2021/22] of Water Plant Well Rehabilitation Contract in
the amount of 104,923.37
19.RESOLUTION NO. 21-271 approving contract to DPC Industries, Inc., of Bellevue,
Nebraska, for purchase of liquid sodium hypochlorite for the Water Plant and Power Plant
in the amount of $0.98/gallon for FY 2021/22
20.RESOLUTION NO. 21-273 awarding contract to Nationwide Office Care of Clive, Iowa, for
CyRide custodial services for the initial contract period from July 1, 2021, through June 30,
2022, (with possible four additional renewal options) at an initial cost of $2,330.50/month
21.RESOLUTION NO. 21-274 approving Change Order No. 2 to RW Excavating Solutions,
LC, of Prairie City, Iowa, for additional seeding/mulching and wattles for enhanced erosion
control and hauling of felled trees for Flood Mitigation - River Flooding (Tree Clearing)
project in the amount of $74,800
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22.RESOLUTION NO. 21-275 approving Change Order No. 2 to Commonwealth Electric to
expand the scope of work on the Fast Electronic Vehicle Charger installation at 2108 Isaac
Newton Drive in the amount of $5,481
23.RESOLUTION NO. 21-276 awarding renewal of contract with Baldwin Pole & Piling, Inc.,
of Des Moines, Iowa, for the purchase of electric distribution utility poles in accordance with
unit prices bid and actual quantities ordered, plus applicable sales taxes
24.Specialized Wet Dry Vacuum, Hydro Blast, and Related Cleaning Services for the Power
Plant:
a.RESOLUTION NO. 21-277 approving renewal of contract with HTH Companies,
Inc., of Union, Missouri, from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022 for hourly rates
and unit prices bid, in an amount not to exceed $235,000
b.RESOLUTION NO. 21-278 approving Performance Bond
25.Scaffolding and Related Services and Supplies Contract for the Power Plant:
a.RESOLUTION NO. 21-279 approving renewal of contract with HTH Companies,
Inc., of Union, Missouri, from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022. in the amount of
$53,000
b.RESOLUTION NO. 21-280 approving Performance Bond
26.Asbestos Remediation and Related Services for the Power Plant:
a.RESOLUTION NO. 21-281 approving renewal of contract with Earth Services &
Abatement, LLC, of Des Moines, Iowa, from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022,
in the amount of $200,000
b.RESOLUTION NO. 21-282 approving Performance Bond
27.Non-Asbestos Insulation and Related Services and Supplies Contract for the Power Plant:
a.RESOLUTION NO. 21-283 approving renewal of contract with HTH Companies
Inc., of Union, Missouri, from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022, in the amount of
$150,000
b.RESOLUTION NO. 21-284 approving Performance Bond
28.RESOLUTION NO. 21-285 approving Plat of Survey for 623 Agg Avenue
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motions/Resolutions declared carried/adopted unanimously, signed by the
Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
AWARDING CONTRACT TO RENEWABLE ENERGY GROUP OF AMES, IOWA FOR
CYRIDE FUEL PURCHASES FROM JULY 1, 2021, THROUGH JUNE 30, 2022, IN AN
AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $1,072,500: Council Member Junck explained that she had pulled
this item from the Consent Agenda in order to abstain from voting due to a conflict of interest. She
mentioned that she had just started an internship at Renewable Energy Group.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Gartin, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-272 awarding contract to
Renewable Energy Group of Ames, Iowa, for CyRide fuel purchases from July 1, 2021, through June
30, 2022, in a not-to-exceed amount of $1,072,500.
Vote on Motion: 5-0-1. Voting Aye: Beatty-Hansen, Betcher, Corrieri, Gartin, Junck. Voting Nay:
None. Abstaining: Junck.
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Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
PUBLIC FORUM: Mayor Haila opened Public Forum. No one requested to speak, so he closed
Public Forum.
FACE-COVERING ORDINANCE: Mayor Haila stated the Story County Board of Health had
met, and its recommendation was to have the Story County Board of Supervisors repeal the County-
wide Face-Covering Ordinance. Earlier today, by Resolution, the Story County Board of Supervisors
did approve to repeal the County’s Face-Covering Ordinance.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Martin, to pass on first reading an ordinance repealing the
Face-Covering Ordinance.
Mayor Haila opened Public Input.
Matt Hinrichsen, 815 Narland Drive, Ames, wanted to let the Council know that he was supportive
of removing the Face-Covering Ordinance.
Public forum was closed when no one else came forward to speak.
Council Member Gartin mentioned that the Council had received a number of different questions
about the impacts of removing the Face-Covering Ordinance. He asked if a private business wanted
to have their own face-covering requirement would it be able to do so. City Attorney Mark Lambert
confirmed that a private business could if it wanted to. Mr. Gartin inquired what would happen to
events on City property. Attorney Lambert commented that if the Ordinance was repealed then there
would no longer be a mandate for face-coverings on City property. It was also asked if masks would
still be required at the Ames Public Library. It was noted that the Library would be following the
Council’s direction regarding face-coverings.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Martin, seconded by Junck, to suspend the rules necessary for the adoption of an
ordinance.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Martin, seconded by Corrieri, to pass on second and third readings and adopt
ORDINANCE NO.4439 repealing the Face-Covering Ordinance.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Ordinance declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
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City Attorney Lambert mentioned that the repealed Ordinance will not become effective until it is
published, which is typically on a Friday following a Tuesday City Council meeting. Therefore, the
Face-Covering Ordinance would remain in effect until Friday, May 28, 2021.
The Mayor mentioned that the next item on the Agenda was a request to have a Resolution excluding
the City of Ames from Story County’s Face-Covering regulation. Attorney Lambert advised that
Story County had repealed its face-covering requirement earlier today, so the request is now moot
and no longer needed.
Council Member Gartin wanted to know procedurally how to remove the enforcement of the Face-
Covering Ordinance before the repealed Ordinance is published. Attorney Lambert explained in the
past the Council had suspended enforcement of an Ordinance. It was noted that a motion stating that
the City will not enforce the Ordinance between now and Friday would be one way to have the
removal of the Face-Covering Ordinance become effective immediately.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to suspend enforcement of the Ordinance until the
publication makes the new Ordinance effective.
Council Member Martin mentioned that he was having trouble comprehending how the motion
changes anything for citizens. He understood it emphasized that the Council wants to repeal the
Face-Covering Ordinance quickly. City Attorney Lambert stated the Ordinance still has enforcement,
but no penalties. He noted there are some businesses that are waiting for the Council to take action
before they lift their own policies. A motion would send the message that this Ordinance is gone and
businesses wouldn’t have to wait until Friday.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-286 to suspend the
enforcement of the Face-Covering Ordinance until the publication makes the new repealed
Ordinance effective.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
City Manager Steve Schainker explained that with the removal of the mask mandate, a follow-up
issue would be how the City is going to handle the situation in all City buildings and facilities. He
noted that with the rescinding of the Ordinance, staff can still wear their masks if it makes them more
comfortable and the barriers will remain in place for now. Hand sanitizer and face masks will still
be made available to the public.
FY 2021/22 CONTRACTS WITH HUMAN SERVICES AGENCIES (ASSET): Assistant City
Manager Deb Schildroth explained that this item is normally on the Consent Agenda; however, she
wanted to have it as a separate item due to a change in the ASSET allocations. She stated that the
Volunteer Center of Story County had declined the FY 2021/22 contracts with all ASSET funders.
Therefore, it was recommended that the $3,285 previously approved by Council could be added to
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the current amount of unallocated funds of $17,277 for human service needs that may arise during
the fiscal year. The additional funds would increase the total amount of unallocated funds to $20,562.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-287 approving the Contracts
for FY 2021/22 for ASSET.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-288 approving the
unallocated funds as “reserve funds” in the new amount of $20,562 to address additional human
service agencies’ needs that may arise during FY 2021/22.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
Ms. Schildroth further explained that a year ago at the start of the pandemic, the ASSET
administrative team had surveyed the agencies to get a sense of where they were at with providing
services. Some agencies had to scale back while others had to stop providing services. At that time
the City had allowed the agencies to make a request to carry funds over to the following fiscal year.
There were two agencies that did carry over its requests. Ms. Schildroth commented that some
agencies are now starting to reopen and getting back to offering regular services. She didn’t know
how many agencies would request to carry-over funds, but during preliminary conversations a couple
agencies had expressed interest in being able to carry forward its funding. Any carry-over requests
would go to staff to be reviewed and brought back to the Council. Ms. Schildroth stated that if the
agencies don’t use the extra funds by FY 2022/23 then the funds would revert back to the Local
Option Sales Tax Fund.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-289 allowing agencies, if
they request, to carry-over FY 2020/21 funding to FY 2021/22 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
AMES ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION: President and CEO of the Ames
Chamber of Commerce and Ames Economic Development Commission (AEDC) Dan Culhane
stated that his Annual Report to the City of Ames is well-documented and he is seeking to renew the
Agreement between the Ames Economic Development Commission and the City of Ames.
Dan Culhane stated that COVID had changed the way the AEDC operated during the last year. One
of the projects was Perfect Flight, a Brazilian company that will provide 60 employment
opportunities to the City of Ames.
The connection with Mr. Culhane was lost at 6:41 p.m. and he was brought back online at 6:52 p.m.
Mr. Culhane mentioned that everyone is looking to hire people and Perfect Flight is creating jobs
for Iowa State graduates and people coming from other states due to the technical qualities needed.
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Another project was the Prairie View Industrial Center. The AEDC was thrilled to see that the City
of Ames was awarded a federal grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration for the
Prairie View Industrial Center. Mr. Culhane commented that there was a company looking at the
151-acre tract of the southeast corner of Lincoln Way and Teller Avenue. He pointed out that
Danfoss, Merck, and many other companies are continuing to expand in Ames. One thing that stood
out in 2020 was the unemployment rate in Ames. Mr. Culhane noted that the unemployment rate
went up fast and came down fast. People were displaced, especially in the hospitality industry. He
highlighted that the AEDC partnered with DMACC and United Way of Story County on a training
program. The training program focused on three demand job areas: welding, manufacturing, and
certified nursing assistant (CNA). To date 36 students have completed the program. It was also noted
that the AEDC will continue to be strong on its business retention efforts and marketing. Mr.
Culhane mentioned that he was excited for 2021, as there are some great opportunities coming.
Council Member Betcher asked if the AEDC had noticed a shift in the number of interns that have
been involved in the “See Yourself in Ames” internship program. Mr. Culhane mentioned that there
are currently just over 100 interns registered for the 2021 “See Yourself in Ames” event. He noted
that in 2020 there were 154 participants. The numbers were down a little this year and one of Ames
big tech companies, Workiva, didn’t have a lot of interns this year as they are not operating 100%
back in the office yet.
The Mayor mentioned that he noticed as he was looking at the numbers in the Report that the job
searches on social media for the “WorkInAmes.com” site had 230,686 hits from July 1, 2019,
through June 30, 2020, but from July 1, 2020, to May 20, 2021, there were only 125,017. Mayor
Haila wanted to know if Mr. Culhane had any insight as to why the numbers would have such a
significant decline. Mr. Culhane stated that part of the reason would be that people are unemployed,
and he believed that the pandemic shifted people out of the workforce altogether. He had spoken to
several businesses and when employees were let go, they did not re-enter the workforce. Mr. Culhane
pointed out that he gets frustrated when he sees comments that there are no jobs available in Ames
when he knows that there are plenty of openings.
Mayor Haila asked Mr. Culhane to speak about the amount of work that was put into Ames keeping
its Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) status. Mr. Culhane commented that having the MSA status
matters; it matters from a funding and marketing standpoint. The MSA status puts the City of Ames
on a list with other major Metropolitan areas and helps put the City of Ames on the map. It helps
with site selection, consultants, and people who are looking for places to develop. He was unsure
of what the funding from the federal government would do for the City of Ames if it lost the MSA
status. The reason there has been discussions about the City of Ames losing its MSA status is due
to a survey that had been done that indicated that MSAs should have a core community of at least
100,000 people. The City of Ames population is currently around 77,000 and would be short of the
100,000 threshold. Right now, as an MSA, the population is about 124,000 due to the population of
Story County and the population of Boone County. Boone County is included in the MSA due to the
heavy commuter patterns that come from Boone County into Ames. Mr. Culhane mentioned that the
reason the City has access to U.S. Economic Development Administration funding is because the
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City of Ames is included with Boone and Story County. He noted that the City of Ames cannot
afford to lose its MSA status. There are two cities in Iowa that could lose the MSA status: Ames and
Dubuque. Mr. Culhane stated he felt that if the City of Ames fell off the MSA list it would look like
the City of Ames is not growing; when it is.
The Mayor asked if anyone wanted to provide input. No one requested to comment, and public input
was closed.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-290 approving a Contract
with the Ames Economic Development Commission for Economic Development Activities from
July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022, in an amount not to exceed $150,000.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
STAFF REPORT REGARDING SMALL ART GRANT AWARDS: One representative from
the Committee was present: Angie DeWaard. Ms. DeWaard commented that there were some great
applications, but the Committee had to be careful about what defines “new art” for the Ames
community. The committee was able to find four applications that met the criteria.
Council Member Betcher inquired how many of the applications were from students. Ms. DeWaard
mentioned that there was one from the Campustown Action Association (Kipp Davis) where the
mural was done by a current student or a graduating student. It was mentioned that Vivian Cook may
also be a student.
Council Member Junk stated that two of the requests were funded over the amount that was asked
for and wanted to know why the Committee decided to give more money than what was requested
versus funding additional projects. Ms. DeWaard commented that the Committee had to be picky
about current art. She noted that some of the requests were good ideas for a film festival or little
libraries, but were not new art. There were a few applications where the Committee couldn’t define
what the money would be used for. The two projects that received funding over the requested amount
were projects that didn’t ask for the full funding and by offering more was the Committee’s way to
help the projects out a little more.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to direct staff to prepare contracts for four Small Art Grant
projects in accordance with the recommendations provided by the Review Committee.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON FINAL AMENDMENT TO FISCAL YEAR 2020/21 BUDGET: Finance
Director Duane Pitcher mentioned that typically the Amendments wrap up a few items that may
happen, but last year due to COVID, each department was tasked to look at its budget for ways to
cut back. Due to the cutbacks there was a very detailed Amendment process last year. Director
Pitcher felt this year the City was back to its normal Amendments.
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The Mayor opened the public hearing and closed it after there was no one who wished to speak.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-291 amending the
Fiscal Year 2020/21 budget by increasing revenues by $3,901,515 and increasing expenditures by
$4,212,534.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
ANNEXATION OF PROPERTIES AT THE INTERSECTION OF LINCOLN HIGHWAY
AND NORTH 500TH AVENUE: Planning and Housing Director Kelly Diekmann mentioned that
there were two items on the Agenda to consider. The first item was for an Ames Urban Fringe Plan
(AUFP) Amendment to change the Land Use Class Map to allow for Annexation of the property.
The second item was the Annexation itself.
City Planner Eloise Sahlstrom stated that back in March 2021, the Council initiated a Voluntary
Annexation. When looking at the details of the Annexation, staff discovered that an Urban Fringe
Plan Amendment was required in order to proceed with the Annexation. A portion of the property
was still designated on the Land Use Class Map as “Rural/Urban Transitional Area.” In order for the
property to be annexed, it has to have the designation of “Urban Service Area.” The area involved
is about 26.5 acres, and the applicant is the City of Ames. The AUFP is a Shared Land Use Plan for
the two-mile area around the City that was cooperatively developed by Story County, the City of
Ames, and the City of Gilbert through a 28E Intergovernmental Agreement. The 28E Agreement lays
out processes for Annexation, Subdivision, Plan Review, and Amendments for lands within the
Fringe Area. The 28E Agreement requires that before any land may be annexed into the City, the
Land Use Class Map for a property must have an “Urban Service Area” designation, regardless of
the Framework Map. Both areas to the north of the subject property and south of Lincoln Way are
already designated as “Urban Service Areas.” On May 3, 2021, the Gilbert City Council approved
the Amendment and on May 11, 2021, the Story County Board of Supervisors passed a Resolution
supporting the proposed map change. The Ames Planning and Zoning Commission met on May 5,
2021, and recommended approval of the proposed map change. Staff is recommending that the
Council approve the Minor Amendment to the Ames Urban Fringe Plan Land Use Class Map from
“Rural/Urban Transition Area” to “Urban Service Area” for the area extending westward from the
current City boundary to the County line (approximately 1,500 feet along Lincoln Highway) and
northward along North 500th Avenue (approximately 768 feet), comprising approximately 26.5 acres.
City Planner Sahlstrom stated that on March 23, 2021, the City Council voted to initiate a Voluntary
Annexation for 11 parcels, totaling 41.11 acres plus rights-of-way, located immediately west of the
Ames corporate limits and extending westward along Lincoln Highway to the Boone County line
and then northward along North 500th Avenue. It was noted that this is the quadrant of land that is
immediately to the west and the south of the Sunset Ridge Subdivision. This request was in response
to an Annexation petition received from Chuck Winkleblack, which included seven parcels owned
by two owners: Flummerfelt Quail Ridge, LLC, and John R. Crane along with rights-of-way along
North 500th Avenue totaling 36.76 acres. State law permits a Voluntary Annexation to include up
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to 20% of the territory with non-consenting abutting properties. There are four properties considered
non-consenting as part of the Annexation request. At the time the City Council initiated the
Annexation, there were several conditions that were placed upon the Annexation. Ms. Sahlstrom
noted that those conditions have been met. The 80/20 Annexation was initiated in order to form a
more uniform boundary for the area and to avoid creating an island. The proposed Annexation did
include a 0.5-acre parcel that is owned by Lemer Land Holdings, LLC, which is a non-consenting
property. Islands are not permissible by State law and must be included with the Annexation. There
are three remaining parcels on the north side of Lincoln Highway, which comprise 5.92 acres of land.
All four non-consenting properties are interspersed among the applicants’ properties with private
drive extensions to Lincoln Highway. The inclusion of the four properties is important to make a
uniform boundary along Lincoln Highway, which provides access to all the properties. The City
already has jurisdiction of Lincoln Highway to the Boone County line at 500th Avenue. There are
three separate entities that own the four non-consenting properties. The property owners are: Lemer
Land Holdings, LLC; Brant Lemer; and Brian Adams. The 41.11-acre Annexation territory includes
6.42 acres of non-consenting parcels. The non-consenting parcels represent 15.6% of the total
Annexation territory, not including the rights-of-way. Additionally, the Annexation includes
approximately 4.04 acres of rights-of-way.
The Planning and Zoning Commission considered the request at a Public Hearing on May 5, 2021,
and voted 6-0 to recommend that the City Council approve the Annexation. On May 11, 2021, the
Story County Board of Supervisors passed a Resolution supporting the proposed Annexation.
Ms. Sahlstrom explained that at the time of the Annexation initiation, staff identified issues related
to infrastructure and future development that were appropriate to address with a Development
Agreement along with the Annexation. Staff also noted to Council that much of the property was part
of a previously rural subdivision that created a number of undeveloped 6,000 square foot lots that
City staff was concerned would be considered as legal lots according to City standards. The
Developers Agreement addressed those issues with the following requirements as they relate to the
consenting property owners of the Annexation; Crane and Flummerfelt: 1) A traffic study must be
completed to look at how the development would be impacted by access to the sites, and what
improvements would be needed. It was noted that the traffic study is already in process and would
be completed prior to any Rezoning; 2) Infrastructure Extensions; 3) Stubbed streets from the Sunset
Ridge Subdivision; and 4) Previously Platted County Lots. Ms. Sahlstrom noted that this area is
within the Southwest Growth Area 1 of the City’s current Land Use Policy Plan (LUPP). The
Southwest Allowable Growth Area has long been considered the next development area on the
periphery of Ames. This area is designated as a Tier 1 growth area in the Draft Ames Plan 2040.
With approval of the Fringe Plan change to Urban Service Area, the Annexation request would be
consistent with both the City’s LUPP and the Ames Urban Fringe Plan process for Annexation. The
Annexation cannot proceed as 100% voluntary, due to the half-acre island owned by a non-
consenting property owner. Therefore, it must proceed as an 80/20 Annexation to include all the
territory that is part of the initial petition for Annexation plus the one “island” parcel. If the
Annexation were to proceed without the entire quadrant, irregular boundaries would be created along
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Lincoln Highway. It was the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council approve the
80/20 Annexation of 41.11 acres of real property and approve the Development Agreement related
to future development requirements with the consenting property owners. The next step would be
for the request to go to the City Development Board for final approval due to there being non-
consenting property owners.
The Mayor asked if the Development Agreement had been signed by the Flummerfelt and Crane
properties. Ms. Sahlstrom indicated that staff had received the signed Agreement and it had been
given to the City Clerk’s office.
Council Member Gartin said he was curious if there had been any additional analysis done to see if
this property would be appropriate as a manufactured home area. Ms. Sahlstrom mentioned that the
development plan has not been submitted to the City, and when talking with the developer, it was
clearly stated that the stubbed streets from Sunset Ridge would be extended into the property.
Planning and Housing Director Kelly Diekmann explained that the evaluation of the site to be a
manufactured home site has not been done because it has not been proposed to the City. The scope
of the traffic study includes commercial development and housing, but staff hasn’t evaluated a
specific layout or uses. City Manager Steve Schainker wanted to know if the Land Use Policy Plan
(LUPP) would allow manufactured homes on this site. Mr. Diekmann stated that the LUPP would
let the developer consider asking for a rezoning to RLP (manufactured home park zoning), FSRL,
FSRM, or PRD. There are four zoning options for the developer to look at with a wide variety of
housing types that could be considered.
The Mayor opened the public hearing.
Brian Adams, 5507 Lincoln Way, Ames, wanted to remind the group that ownership and property
lines will not change post Annexation. He asked why the Council felt it was a personal benefit for
him to be annexed, forcibly, into the City. Mr. Adams mentioned that he had previously spoken to
Director Diekmann to get information on how his property use would change by being annexed into
the City. He stated that Director Diekmann’s response was to give him a page of frequently asked
questions, which was very vague and short. Mr. Adams commented that he was still at a loss as to
what is going to happen to him and what he is financially responsible for. He noted that the front of
his property already has easements to run all the utilities across his property. He didn’t see how the
annexation of his property would be of any benefit to the City.
Chuck Winkleblack, 105 S. 16th Street, Ames, urged the Council to approve the Annexation in order
to keep this project moving forward. He understood there would be a more vigorous discussion
during the rezoning process.
Brant Lemer, property owner of 5333 Tabor Drive and 5615 Lincoln Way, Ames, wanted to put the
Annexation request on hold for a week or two as there have been a few questions from the non-
consenting properties that have not been answered. He had no problem moving forward with the
Minor Amendment to the Ames Urban Fringe Plan Land Use Class Map. The Mayor had asked what
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questions still needed to be answered. Mr. Lemer noted his questions have been identified in past
meetings and staff has all his emails. He mentioned that there were many of them. The questions
were regarding road access, storm water, and the cost of adding storm water. Mr. Lemer stated he
would like to have his engineer be present during conversations and would prefer an in-person
meeting.
The Public Hearing was closed when no one else spoke.
Director Diekmann explained that it had been over a year since he had any communications with Mr.
Adams. There is a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page, which talks about some of the changes
and nuances of being in the City. If anyone was concerned about property taxes, Story County has
a tool that can estimate the taxes. It was explained that for most properties being Annexed into the
City, the property would come in as Agricultural zoning. Regarding having utilities brought to the
properties, Mr. Diekmann noted that does not happen as the property owner has the option to hook
up to City utilities or extend utilities to serve themselves. The other questions were unable to be
answered at this time as those questions would be addressed later in the process. Mr. Diekmann
pointed out that when it comes to property tax questions, staff refers citizens to the Story County
Assessor’s page. The City does not have any infrastructure projects that are being put forward in this
area where it is expected to have other properties participate in. Mayor Haila confirmed that the
property owners can continue to use their property “as is” without having to worry about having City
utilities put in.
Moved by Martin, seconded by Gartin, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-292 approving a Minor
Amendment to the Ames Urban Fringe Plan Land Use Class Map from Rural/Urban Transition Area
to Urban Service Area for the area extending westward from the current City boundary to the County
line (approximately 1500 feet along Lincoln Highway) and northward along North 500th Avenue
approximately 768 feet.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-293 approving the
Annexation of all consenting and non-consenting properties.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-294 approving the
Development Agreement addressing the infrastructure needs and developer responsibilities for future
development.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON MASTER PLAN AMENDMENT FOR 5571 HYDE AVENUE (HAYDEN’S
PRESERVE - FORMERLY KNOWN AS ROSE PRAIRIE) [CONTINUED FROM MAY 11,
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2021]: Planning and Housing Director Kelly Diekmann stated staff was still working on finalizing
a few details, but this item should be ready for the June 8, 2021, meeting.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Betcher, to continue the hearing to June 8, 2021.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON AUDITORIUM HVAC REPLACEMENT: Mayor Haila mentioned that on the
Agenda it stated that the request is for a Resolution to award a contract, but the City Manager’s
recommendation was to Accept the Report of Bids only.
Fleet Services Director Corey Mellies stated that per the Council Action Form, this project had been
before the Council before and all bids were rejected as all bids had come in too high. Staff looked
over the project again and removed a few items along with adding some Alternates. However, the
bids came in even higher than before. Director Mellies mentioned that while speaking with a
contractor and engineer there are a lot of supply chain issues and materials are going up in cost. Staff
would like to take this time to see if there is something that can be done with the project and explore
funding.
Council Member Gartin asked if there were any timing issues with the project. Director Mellies
stated that the only issue would be if the current system failed. He noted that part of the system is
original to the building and the rest were put in when the building was turned into City Hall. The
system is currently working, but he isn’t sure when it will fail.
Mayor Haila opened public comment and closed it when no one asked to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to accept the Report of Bids for the Auditorium HVAC
Replacement.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON 2020/21 ARTERIAL STREET PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS - 13TH
STREET (DUFF AVENUE TO MEADOWLAND AVENUE): The Mayor opened public
comment. It was closed when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-296 approving the final
plans and specifications and awarding a contract to Con-Struct, Inc., of Ames, Iowa, in the amount
of $2,934,292.90
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
PRESENTATION OF THE PROPOSED EXTERIOR PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE:
Building Official Sara Van Meeteren mentioned at the City Council meeting on August 25, 2020,
the City Council requested a memo from staff regarding recommendations for a potential Exterior
Property Maintenance Code. Over the years, the Inspection staff has been unable to adequately
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address complaints from neighboring property owners regarding conditions of non-rental properties,
thus causing frustration on the part of these citizens. Attached to the Staff Report was a draft
Ordinance that contained information based on complaints received throughout the years. The draft
Ordinance contains three main areas: 1) lack of regulation; 2) scattered code information; and, 3)
length of time to gain compliance. Staff had surveyed numerous jurisdictions around Central Iowa
and found that many of them have a single ordinance for property maintenance that consolidates all
the necessary code sections, enforcement procedures, and appeal procedures for owner-occupied
properties. This one-stop-shop approach will provide clarity and consistency for staff and citizens.
The proposed ordinance is directed only towards owner-occupied residential properties, owner-
occupied or rental commercial properties, and owner-occupied or rental industrial properties. As a
result of consolidating the currently scattered sections, revisions to existing chapters will be
necessary to remove language so that code requirements are not duplicated throughout the Municipal
Code.
Ms. Van Meeteren went over the proposed Ordinance recommendations. There were 15 new
regulations in the proposed ordinance. The following items that are not currently violations would
become violations under the proposed ordinance:
1.Leaving garbage receptacles at the curb for more than 24 hours
2.Allowing garbage, junk, and yard waste to be stored
3.Allowing stagnant water to pool
4.Depositing mud/gravel/etc. on sidewalks
5.Placing/pushing snow/ice onto public streets.
6.Grasses over 12 inches in the right-of-way and right-of-way Encroachment
7.Trees hanging over the right-of-way
8.Dense growth of vegetation (weeds, vines, brush)
9.Turf grasses exceeding 12 inches on private property
10.Dangerous trees
11.Conditions that harbor vermin
12.Open holes/excavation for up to 30 days
13.Vacant, unsecured structures
14.Exterior, structural requirements (siding, roofing, decks)
15.Graffiti removal
Ms. Van Meeteren stated that staff is also recommending a new appeal process. Currently, three
different Boards have jurisdiction over the types of violations for the proposed ordinance. They are
the Property Maintenance Appeals Board, Building Board of Appeals, and the Zoning Board of
Adjustment. The new ordinance proposes the creation of a separate board to hear appeals of this new
Chapter. The recommended make-up of the Board includes neighborhood representatives from each
ward and will meet monthly. Staff will be recommending changing the name of the appeal board for
Rental Housing to “Rental Housing Code Appeal Board” and naming the new board for the
“Property Maintenance Code” chapter the “Property Maintenance Appeals Board.”
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Fire Chief Rich Higgins stated that this is a first attempt at a Property Maintenance Code. He wanted
to emphasize that this is a starting point. Tonight, was to present the concept to the Council and then
will be getting feedback from the community to move forward. Chief Higgins noted that this is a
“touchy issue” when dealing with personal properties, and staff wants to be respectful. It is a
balancing act of how to protect the property owner while respecting the neighbor’s rights as well.
By taking nine different Code sections and putting them all into one easy-to-find location will be
beneficial to customers. He noted that the Inspections division is good about doing education first.
City Manager Steve Schainker asked how the proposed ordinance was different from the Rental
Code. Mr. Higgins stated that this Ordinance would cover all properties except for rentals. Of the
15 proposed new regulations, there are about seven of them that are not covered in Chapter 13 of the
Rental Code. It was suggested that, after this proposed ordinance is approved, to have staff modify
Chapter 13 of the Code to match.
Mr. Schainker commented that on Pages 6 and 7 of the Staff Report there are four specific topics that
staff was requesting guidance on. The four topics were grass height restrictions, junk vehicles,
ordinance applying to all properties that are not residential rentals, and the proposed Appeal Board
composition.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen commented that she liked the definition of graffiti that the City of
Des Moines used because, once you have the owner’s permission to have the graffiti, it is no longer
considered graffiti. Ms. Beatty-Hansen inquired if the proposed ordinance was intended to be
complaint-driven opposed to City staff driving around finding issues. Ms. Van Meeteren stated that
it is primarily complaint driven, but staff does patrol the Campustown area for furniture, garbage,
and other issues that are typical for that area. Ms. Beatty-Hansen wanted to know what the rate was
for the City to assess the work that it does. She was worried that a property owner may let something
go knowing that the City will correct the problem and just accept the assessed fee as it may be
cheaper than doing the work themselves. Ms. Van Meeteren commented that those situations have
been discussed as staff doesn’t want to always be mowing people’s lawns. The City of Ames
contracts out the work and the property owner is assessed the amount that the City is charged. The
proposed abatement process also adds in the ability for staff to add in administrative fees that are not
currently done. If the bill is not paid, it will go to the Council for assessment, which could potentially
have an interest rate applied to it. Chief Higgins mentioned that there would also be a citation that
could be issued that would have a municipal fine of $500 for the first occurrence and $750 for
additional occurrences; however, education would be done first. Ms. Beatty-Hansen stated she would
be concerned with the citation as the enforcement mechanism. The reason why some people can’t
fix the problem is due to lack of funding, and she wanted to know how a citation is going to work
at all if the property owner can’t even afford to fix the problem, let alone pay a fine. Ms. Van
Meeteren stated that is something that staff would take into consideration. It was noted that a citation
would be staff’s last effort to get compliance and only be used to get permission from the judge to
enter the property. The citation is up to $500 and the judge could waive the citation fee.
Council Member Betcher wanted to know how staff determines the difference between native prairie
grass versus just neglected property. Ms. Van Meeteren explained this was discussed thoroughly with
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the Public Works and Parks and Recreation Departments as there are qualified staff who know the
difference in grasses. Inspection staff is happy to consult with the City Forrester or the Public Works
Department to get an opinion on the grass type. There have been discussions about a registration
program to consider a property to be a prairie area and may require a sign that indicates that the City
approved the criteria.
Council Member Betcher wanted to know more information about abandoned vehicles. She noted
that there are junk vehicles and then other vehicles that might sit on a property for more than 15
days. She inquired of RVs or boat trailers are part of the proposed ordinance or are they specifically
excluded. Ms. Van Meeteren mentioned that RVs and boat trailers are already part of the Municipal
Code. The junk vehicle section states that if it is deemed a junk vehicle, it can be on the property for
72 hours and the proposed ordinance would change it to 48 hours. If it is not a junked vehicle, the
current ordinance says it can stay on the property for 15 days, but there is an exception if a property
owner is going to be gone for an extended period of time. It was noted that this issue is one of the
questions that staff would like Council’s help with. There are also exceptions to the Junk Vehicle
Ordinance where, if a tight-fitting vehicle cover is placed over the vehicle, it is no longer deemed
junk. Another concern is the parking of vehicles behind the front of the house.
Council Member Martin recommended for junk vehicles that the Council should not restrict how
long a non-junk vehicle can be stored on a permissible parking spot on private property. Mayor Haila
inquired if Mr. Martin meant in the front setbacks. Mr. Martin stated that it may be an issue with
RVs and boat trailers, but he is talking about passenger vehicles only. Ms. Beatty-Hansen stated she
agreed with passenger vehicles and thought it would be hard to force someone to move their RV
every 15 days, especially during the middle of winter. Ms. Betcher commented that she is aware of
several properties that have an RV parked in the driveway. Ms. Betcher commented that she is more
concerned about the junk vehicles.
Moved by Martin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, that the next time the material is reviewed, a written
proposal be included to eliminate the 15-day limit for non-junk vehicles and that would also be
applied to RVs and larger vehicles so that they would be permitted to be stored in front of the house
as well as in a driveway.
Ms. Van Meeteren clarified that the current Ordinance states that a property owner may have a boat
parked behind the house, but then this triggers the outdoor storage section in the Zoning Code that
would disallow it from being stored there. It was asked what the difference was between parking and
storage. Ms. Van Meeteren stated that the definition of outside storage in the Zoning Code states:
“any items including vehicles stored outdoors for more than 72 hours.” She noted that the definition
was very broad.
Council Member Martin withdrew his motion.
It was discussed to have a Workshop to discuss the Proposed Exterior Property Maintenance Code.
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Council Member Betcher stated that one thing that the Council has heard throughout the years from
rental property owners is to see a more consistent treatment of owner-occupied properties to match
what the requirements are for rental property owners. She felt that having a Code section would be
beneficial to staff and the community.
Ms. Van Meeteren commented that if there were no strong feelings to add or remove anything from
the Proposed Ordinance tonight, she is prepared to send out the Draft Ordinance to neighborhood
associations, homeowner associations, Central Iowa Board of Realtors, and a list of neighbors that
have complained about certain properties.
Council Member Gartin stated, in terms of receiving public input, staff has been successful on
several initiatives to allow feedback online and would encourage staff to utilize its website. He felt
strongly that the appeal period should only be 30 days. Mr. Gartin was concerned about some of the
language in the Ordinance. One of them was “dense” growth and Mr. Gartin stated that wording was
very vague. He was also concerned about “dangerous trees” and the amount of time given to remove
graffiti. He mentioned that when he first started on the Council, there was a program called
“Neighbors Helping Neighbors,” which is no longer active, allowing for citizens to volunteer to help
property owners who didn’t have the means to do minor property repairs. He explained it would be
beneficial to try to bring that program back.
Council Member Corrieri noted that the Story County Housing Trust Fund annually contributes
money to help low-to-moderate families with owner-occupied properties. Ms. Van Meeteren
mentioned staff also referred citizens to Ames Repair and Care through the Story County Volunteer
Center.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Martin, to adopt the 12-inches standard for grass height as outlined
in the Staff Report.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Mr. Schainker asked how quickly staff would like to have a Workshop. It was agreed that June 15,
2021, would work for a Workshop to discuss the proposed Exterior Property Maintenance Code.
REQUEST FROM THE AMES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE TO PROCEED TO
IMPLEMENT THE CAMPUSTOWN LINCOLN WAY BEAUTIFICATION PLAN
(LINCOLN WAY MEDIANS FROM BEACH TO SHELDON): Council Member Betcher
questioned the renderings of the design for the medians. She mentioned that when she was on the
Historic Preservation Commission, they were not able to have rock in the medians and she was
concerned about having huge rocks in the medians especially if there are accidents. Parks and
Recreation Director Keith Abraham explained that topic was discussed, and noted that there are also
trees and artwork in the medians and having rocks would not be any different.
Council Member Gartin stated that this proposal is from the Chamber, and to him, it seemed odd that
the City was not contributing any funding. Mr. Abraham mentioned that, per the Council Action
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Form, it indicated that initially the Council chose not to do anything. The Ames Chamber of
Commerce came back with the same project after they secured private funding. Council Member
Betcher pointed out that the City is committing to help maintain other aspects of the medians.
Moved by Gartin, that the City contribute $25,000 to the project.
Motion failed due to lack of a second.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen commented that she appreciated the motion, but if private funding
had been found, she didn’t see why the City would need to dip into taxpayer dollars. Mr. Gartin
stated that he appreciated the Chamber stepping up, but thought this project was something that the
City should have taken the lead on. Ms. Beatty-Hansen mentioned that there are “a lot of irons in the
fire,” and while there is some need for it, the Council needs to prioritize; there are other needs that
are greater at this time.
The Mayor opened public input. It was closed when no one spoke.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-297 approving the
request from the Ames Chamber of Commerce to proceed to implement the Campustown Lincoln
Way Beautification Plan (Lincoln Way medians from Beach to Sheldon), subject to its agreement
to purchase material and replenish mulch in the medians annually.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
2021-22 CDBG PROPOSED ANNUAL ACTION PLAN FOLLOW-UP: Housing Coordinator
Vanessa Baker-Latimer pointed out that on May 12 and 13, 2021, City staff hosted online public
forums to gather input regarding possible projects for consideration for the 2021/22 CDBG/HOME
Annual Action Plan as part of the City’s Entitlement Program. Four people attended and participated
in the forum discussions. The public feedback was centered around the need to continue to address
affordable housing and neighborhoods. Staff’s takeaway from the public input was that there still
seems to be a continued consensus that affordable housing and neighborhood investment is needed
in the community. Initially, on February 25, 2021, the federal Housing and Urban Development
Department (HUD) notified the City that it would be receiving, for the 2021/22 program year,
$590,475 in CDBG funds (which is a $12,075 decrease from 2020), and $350,543 in HOME funds
(which is a $118,034 decrease from 2020). However, on May 13, 2021, HUD notified the City of
a correction in the 2021/22 CDBG allocation amount, which was adjusted from the $590,475 to
$599,177 (which was a $8,7052 increase above the February amount). Of the additional $8,702 in
CDBG funding, $1,740 was added to administration for a total budget of $119,835, and the
remaining balance of $6,962 was added to the Acquisition/Reuse for Slum/Blight Program for a total
budget of $279,342. Ms. Baker-Latimer mentioned that the proposed 2021/22 Action Plan
Expenditure Budget would cover CDBG Acquisition/Reuse Program for Affordable Housing
(including demolition), CDBG Acquisition/Reuse Program for Slum/Blight Removal (including
demolition), CDBG Public Infrastructure Improvements Program for the Baker Subdivision
(including Engineer costs), CDBG-CV CARES (Rent, Mortgage, and Utility) Relief Assistance,
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HOME Homeownership Construction Program, HOME Down Payment Assistance, HOME LIHTC
Multi-Family Assistance, and the General Administration for CDBG, HOME & CARES programs.
She pointed out that HUD has changed the required 30-day public comment period down to a three-
day comment period.
Council Member Gartin stated he was concerned about future funding with the population decreasing
in the City and wanted to know if this would impact future funding. Ms. Baker-Latimer stated that
it would affect the funding, especially the HOME funds. Mr. Gartin stated if working under the
presumption that the funding may decrease in the future would impact the way in which the City
utilizes the current funding. Ms. Baker-Latimer stated that it would not as the City would still work
on the projects that were laid out in the five year Consolidated Plan.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-298 approving the
proposed 2021/22 Annual Action Plan Program Projects and proposed budget and set August 10,
2021, as the date of public hearing.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
AGREEMENT WITH AG OUTCOMES, INC., OF ANKENY, IOWA, TO PURCHASE
WATERSHED NUTRIENT-REDUCTION CREDITS: Water and Pollution Control Director
John Dunn pointed out that this item is a unique Agreement with AgOutcomes, Inc., a subsidiary of
the Iowa Soybean Association. Director Dunn explained that AgOutcomes will do all of the legwork
for the City by making the arrangements with farmers to get the nutrient-reducing land practices in
place. Once arrangements have been completed with the farmers AgOutcomes works on quantifying
the nutrient reduction in terms of pounds per acre, and then they record the nutrient reduction credits
with the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Exchange. The credits are recorded in the City of Ames name.
Once the credits are recorded, the City of Ames makes the payments to AgOutcomes to reimburse
them for the expenses that they paid up-front. The City’s only part is to pay the amount due at the
end.
Council Member Gartin asked if there was a Request for Proposals (RFP) done for something like
this. Mr. Dunn stated that he is not aware that anyone else is doing anything like this as it is a unique
approach that the Soybean Association is taking. Mr. Gartin stated that he read through the Report,
but wanted to know what the credits would be applied against. Mr. Dunn stated that his whole
concern with the way the Iowa Nutrient Reduction strategy is written is that there is an obligation
for point sources that covers 20% of the load while 80% is for non-point sources. He is concerned
that 20 years down the road, the State is going to change its strategy. The credits that the City
“banks” will help the City if future regulations change. Mr. Gartin wanted to know how staff would
know what needs to be “banked.” Mr. Dunn stated that the City is one of four communities within
the state that have entered into a formal Memorandum of Understanding with the Iowa Department
of Natural Resources where they say that if the City does these types of practices, they guarantee that
the City will get credit towards any type of future regulations.
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Council Member Martin mentioned that he liked the emphasis on the structural modifications to the
land that will help in the future. He wanted to know, in the meantime, if the land users would have
done this year on their own. Mr. Dunn stated that AgOutcomes handled all the contracts so he is not
sure if the farmers would have followed the process or not.
Public input was opened by the Mayor and closed when no one asked to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 21-296 approving the
Agreement with AgOutcomes, Inc., of Ankeny, Iowa, to purchase the watershed nutrient-reduction
credits in the amount not to exceed $50,000 for the Water Plant.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A NEW PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (PUD)
OVERLAY ZONE WITHIN THE ZONING ORDINANCE ALONG WITH PRIVATE
STREET STANDARDS IN THE SUBDIVISION ORDINANCE: Moved by Betcher, seconded
by Beatty-Hansen, to pass on second reading an ordinance establishing a new Planned Unit
Development (PUD) Overlay Zone within the Zoning Ordinance along with private street standards
in the Subdivision Ordinance.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
DISPOSITIONS OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: Mayor Haila mentioned that there
was one item to discuss tonight: a Staff Report from the Planning and Housing Department regarding
the request from Chuck Winkleblack and Roger Underwood for a Fringe Plan Amendment,
Annexation, and Tax Increment Financing Partnership for the Industrial Subdivision Proposal at
2105 Dayton Avenue.
City Manager Steve Schainker pointed out that there were two options to the request. A motion can
be made to initiate the Amendment to the Ames Urban Fringe Plan (AUFP). The second part is the
tax financing; in order to move forward on the second motion, staff will need to do an analysis.
Moved by Martin, seconded by Betcher, to allow the applicant to apply for a Minor Amendment to
the Ames Urban Fringe for property located at 2105 Dayton Avenue as an Urban Service Area and
a Planned Industrial land use classification, and to direct staff to proceed with an analysis of the need
and benefit for incentivizing another small lot industrial development.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Council Member Gartin stated that he had received correspondence
from a citizen by the name of Steve Martin about speeding on the west side of Hyde Avenue. He
thought the Council had looked at this area in the past and could provide the old report to Mr.
Martin.
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Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to direct staff to respond to Mr. Martin’s inquiry
about speeding on Hyde Avenue with the previous traffic study that was done and provide any
updated information as well.
City Manager Steve Schainker stated there had been a previous traffic study in 2018/19 and can
provide that Report. Traffic Engineer Damion Pregitzer could give his conclusion to the study with
any new information to Mr. Martin.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Council Member Gartin stated that the Story County Board of Supervisors is moving forward with
a tanning bed ordinance. An email had been sent to the Council from Assistant City Manager Deb
Schildroth with additional information regarding tanning beds. He wanted to make the Council was
aware of what the Board of Supervisors was looking at and maybe the City of Ames could look at
doing the same in the future.
Council Member Betcher stated she was excited about the outcome of the Small Art Grant Program.
She mentioned that she had been participating in the National Town and Gown, and during one of
the sessions, it was discussed that there were a lot of good things happening in college towns, trying
to rebound after COVID.
Council Member Gartin explained that this year, the Ames Patriotic Council made the decision to
have the Memorial Day celebration in a virtual format. He encouraged everyone to watch. The guest
speaker was a former ISU student who flew as a F16 pilot for 20 years. The event will be on
Monday, May 31, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. via Facebook or the Ames Patriotic Council’s website.
Mayor Haila stated that on Friday, June 4, 2021, he was invited to give an official greeting to the
VFW that are coming to town for its annual convention. It is the VFW’s 100th Anniversary.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Junk to adjourn the meeting at 9:58 p.m.
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Amy L. Colwell, Deputy City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
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Diane R. Voss, City Clerk
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