HomeMy WebLinkAboutA001 - April 22, 2025, Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council Full Minutes1
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA APRIL 22, 2025
The Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor John Haila at 6:00
p.m. on the 22nd day of April, 2025, in the City Council Chambers in City Hall, 515 Clark
Avenue, pursuant to law. Present were Council Members Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen, Gloria
Betcher, Amber Corrieri, Tim Gartin, Rachel Junck, and Anita Rollins.
PROCLAMATION FOR "ARBOR DAY," APRIL 25, 2025: Mayor Haila proclaimed April
25, 2025, as Arbor Day and City Forester Gabriele Edwards accepted the proclamation alongside
City Arborist Matt Rochford.
PROCLAMATION FOR "MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH," MAY 2025:
May 2025 was proclaimed Mental Health Awareness Month by Mayor Haila. The proclamation
was accepted by Mental Health Advocate Julie Saxton with leaders of local mental health care
organizations.
PROCLAMATION FOR "NATIONAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION MONTH," MAY
2025: Mayor Haila proclaimed May 2025 as National Historic Preservation Month, which was
accepted by Chair of the Historic Preservation Commission Dévon Lewis.
PRESENTATION OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION AWARDS: Mayor Haila shared that
the Ames Historic Preservation Commission annually recognizes preservation activities within
Ames to highlight, honor, and promote preservation efforts. The 2025 Renewing the Past award
was presented to Casie Vance and Jason Dietzenbach, who were in attendance on behalf of the
Ames Historical Society, for the rehabilitation of the Ames Pantorium building, which was now
part of the Ames History Museum at 416 Douglas Avenue.
Awards were then presented for the 2025 Keeping the Past Alive award for two single-family
homes in the Old Town Neighborhood. The first was awarded to Shellie Orngard, while the
second was awarded to Karen Lashe for the historic preservation of the single-family homes
located at 928 and 911 Burnett Avenue, respectively.
CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Gartin requested to pull Item No. 16: Requests from
Ames Patriotic Council for Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 26, 2025.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to approve the consent agenda less Item No. 16.
5. Motion approving payment of claims
6. Motion approving Summary of Minutes of Regular City and Tax Levy Council Meeting
on April 8, 2025, and Special Meeting on April 15, 2025
7. Motion approving new Class E Retail Alcohol License - Crown Liquor, 113 Welch
Avenue, Pending Favorable Inspection
8. Motion approving extension of Outdoor Service (May 17 - May 18, 2025) for Class C
Retail Alcohol License with Outdoor Service - Tip Top Lounge, 201 E. Lincoln Way,
Pending Dramshop Review
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9. Motion approving Temporary License Transfer for Class C Retail Alcohol License with
Outdoor Service on May 27, 2025 - Iowa State Center - CY Stephens
10. Motion approving the renewal of the following Beer Permits, Wine Permits, and Liquor
Licenses:
a. The Great Plains Sauce & Dough Co., 129 Main Street, Special Class C Retail
Alcohol License
b. Walgreens #12108, 2719 Grand Avenue, Class E Retail Alcohol License
c. El Jefe Mexican Cuisine, 5244 Lincoln Way, Class C Retail Alcohol License,
Pending Dramshop Review
d. Mother's Pub, 2900 West Street, Class C Retail Alcohol License with Catering
Privilege and Outdoor Service, Pending Dramshop Review
e. Wasabi Somerset, 2707 Kent Avenue, Class C Retail Alcohol License
f. Hy-Vee Fast and Fresh #1, 4018 West Lincoln Way, Class E Retail Alcohol
License
g. Jeff's Pizza Shop LLC, 2402 Lincoln Way, Special Class C Retail Alcohol
License, Pending Dramshop Review
11. RESOLUTION NO. 25-167 approving Quarterly Investment Report for period ending
March 31, 2025
12. RESOLUTION NO. 25-168 correcting subdivision reference in Resolution No. 25-072,
which vacated certain easements
13. RESOLUTION NO. 25-169 approving encroachment permit for sign at 300 Main Street,
2nd level
14. Requests for Ames on the Half Shell:
a. RESOLUTION NO. 25-170 approving waiver of enforcement of Municipal Code
Section 17.17 related to alcohol consumption in City parks with respect only to
Bandshell Park from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Fridays May 30-June 30
b. Motion approving 5-Day License - Special Class C Retail Alcohol License with
Outdoor Service - Ames on the Half Shell, Bandshell Park, for:
i. May 29 - June 02, 2025
ii. June 05 - June 09, 2025
iii. June 12 - June 16, 2025
iv. June 19 - June 23, 2025
v. June 26 - June 30, 2025
15. RESOLUTION NO. 25-171 approving request from Good Neighbor Emergency
Assistance to close Clark Avenue between 6th and 7th Street from 1:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. on
Sunday, May 18, 2025, for the Annual Street Party Celebration
16. Requests from Ames Patriotic Council for Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 26,
2025:
a. Motion approving blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit for closed area
b. RESOLUTION NO. 25-172 approving closure of Pearle Avenue and 5th Street
from east of Pearle Avenue through Clark Avenue intersection from 9:00 a.m. to
11:00 a.m. for parade line-up
c. RESOLUTION NO. 25-173 approving temporary closure of Clark Avenue from
5th Street to 9th Street between 9:45 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. for movement of the
parade
d. RESOLUTION NO. 25-174 approving temporary closure of 9th Street between
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Clark Avenue and Maxwell Avenue from 9:45 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. for movement
of the parade
e. RESOLUTION NO. 25-175 approving temporary closure of 6th Street at Clark
Avenue and Duff Avenue at 9th Street, as parade moves through those
intersections
17. Requests from Ames Pride for Pridefest on October 11, 2025:
a. Motion approving blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit and blanket Vending
License
b. RESOLUTION NO. 25-176 approving closure of Douglas Avenue from Main
Street to 6th Street and 5th Street between Kellogg Avenue and the alley east of
Adams Family Funeral Home from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
c. RESOLUTION NO. 25-177 approving waiver of parking meter fees and
enforcement
d. RESOLUTION NO. 25-178 approving waiver of fee for blanket Vending License
18. RESOLUTION NO. 25-179 approving relinquishing & return of original bond for JT
Warehouse Subdivision East 13th Street upon receipt of the replacement bond
19. RESOLUTION NO. 25-180 approving preliminary plans and specifications for the
2024/25 Collector Street & Water System Improvements (Oakland Street - Oliver
Avenue to Hawthorne Avenue) project, setting May 21, 2025, as the bid due date and
May 27, 2025, as the date of Public Hearing
20. RESOLUTION NO. 25-181 approving preliminary plans and specifications for the
2024/25 South 16th Street Roadway Widening and establish May 20, 2025, as the date of
letting and May 27, 2025, as the date for report for bids
21. RESOLUTION NO. 25-182 approving a contract renewal with HTH Companies, Inc., of
Union, MO, for the Non- Asbestos Insulation and Related Services and Supply Contract
at the Power Plant for the one-year period from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026 in an
amount not-to-exceed $150,000
22. RESOLUTION NO. 25-183 approving contract renewal with Integrated Global Services,
Inc., Richmond, VA, for the Boiler Tube Spray Coating and Related Services and
Supplies Contract for Power Plant for the one-year period from July 1, 2025 through June
30, 2026 in an amount not-to-exceed $590,000
23. RESOLUTION NO. 25-184 approving contract renewal with Tri-City Electric Company
of Iowa, Davenport, IA, for the Electrical Maintenance Services Contract for Power Plant
for the one-year period from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026 in an amount not-to-
exceed $120,000
24. RESOLUTION NO. 25-185 approving contract renewal with Waldinger Corporation, of
Des Moines, IA, for the Power Plant Maintenance Services Contract for the one-year
period from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026 in an amount not-to-exceed $135,000
25. RESOLUTION NO. 25-186 approving contract and bond for the 2023/24 CDBG
Infrastructure Program (N Russell Avenue - N 2nd Street to N 4th Street) with Iowa Water
& Waste Systems of Boone, Iowa, in the amount of $346,858.50
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motions/Resolutions declared carried/adopted unanimously, signed by the
Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
REQUESTS FROM AMES PATRIOTIC COUNCIL FOR MEMORIAL DAY PARADE
ON MONDAY, MAY 26, 2025: Council Member Gartin shared that he would be abstaining
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from the vote due to conflict of interest.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to approve the requests from Ames Patriotic
Council for Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 26, 2025:
a. Motion approving blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit for closed area
b. RESOLUTION NO. 25-172 approving closure of Pearle Avenue and 5th Street from east
of Pearle Avenue through Clark Avenue intersection from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. for
parade line-up
c. RESOLUTION NO. 25-173 approving temporary closure of Clark Avenue from 5th
Street to 9th Street between 9:45 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. for movement of the parade
d. RESOLUTION NO. 25-174 approving temporary closure of 9th Street between Clark
Avenue and Maxwell Avenue from 9:45 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. for movement of the parade
e. RESOLUTION NO. 25-175 approving temporary closure of 6th Street at Clark Avenue
and Duff Avenue at 9th Street, as parade moves through those intersections
Roll Call Vote: 5-0-1; Gartin abstaining due to conflict of interest. Motions/Resolutions declared
carried/adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
PUBLIC FORUM: Mayor Haila opened the Public Forum.
Daryl Vegge spoke in opposition to the annexation of The Irons Subdivision, citing the financial
obstacles of increased taxes and connecting to sanitary sewer services.
Collin Larter discussed pedestrian safety at crosswalks and proposed the addition of four
ordinances to the Municipal Code that protect the pedestrian right of way.
Mayor Haila closed the Public Forum when no one else came forward to speak.
HEARING ON CITY OF AMES BUDGET: Director of Finance Corey Goodenow and
Budget Manager Nancy Masteller gave a brief description of the budgets presented for approval.
The Public Hearing on the Fiscal Year 2024/25 Adjusted Budget was opened and closed by
Mayor Haila when no one came forward to speak.
Mayor Haila then opened and closed the Public Hearing on the Fiscal Year 2025/26 Budget
when no one came forward to speak.
Council Member Gartin inquired if there were any items at the state level that should be
considered prior to approval of the aforementioned items. Director Goodenow replied in the
negative.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Rollins, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-187 authorizing and
approving the Fiscal Year 2024/25 Adjusted Budget.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-188 authorizing and
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approving the Fiscal Year 2025/26 Budget.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
HEARING ON PROPOSED ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT (ZTA) MODIFYING
BILLBOARD STANDARDS AND CREATING NEW DIGITAL DISPLAY STANDARDS:
Planning and Housing Director Kelly Diekmann reviewed the proposed standards and permitted
locations for digital billboards. He provided a comparison of the proposed billboard dimensions
and brightness measurements, emphasizing that the proposal was consistent with industry
practices. He added that the proposed standards differed from those outlined in the Municipal
Code for outdoor lighting.
The Mayor and City Council members evaluated the proposed standards and discussed concerns
regarding the brightness measure. Council Member Betcher referenced an area in the Des
Moines metro that permitted digital billboards and noted the adverse impact on drivers,
especially at night. Director Diekmann provided an explanation of how brightness varies based
on environment. He noted that the billboards referenced by Council Member Betcher shared the
same brightness level as the proposed standards.
The Public Hearing was opened by Mayor Haila.
Lorna Carroll advocated against permitting digital billboards, citing the importance of
eliminating light pollution to protect migratory birds. She requested an assessment of the
proposed standards based on five lighting principles and encouraged review of the proposed
standards by a wildlife expert.
Lori Biedermen highlighted her opposition and reiterated concerns of the impact of artificial
lighting on wildlife. She discussed the negative impacts of off-road lighting for drivers that have
difficulty navigating the roadway at night.
The Public Hearing was closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to speak.
Council Member Gartin summarized the concerns on light pollution and highlighted efforts that
the City Council had undertaken in other areas of the community to limit the effects of artificial
lighting. He shared that he was in favor of delaying action on the ZTA until more information
could be gathered. Council Member Betcher concurred, noting that she would like to negotiate a
compromise on brightness measurements, especially at night.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to delay consideration of the proposal in order to
consult further with Lamar of Des Moines to investigate flexibility with the proposed lighting
standards and invite a local expert on the subject to attend the meeting with guidance on the
luminance of the billboard.
Director Diekmann confirmed that action on this item was not critical at this time and shared that
staff was willing to discuss the proposed standards further with Lamar of Des Moines.
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Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to amend the motion to clarify that delay of
consideration would continue the hearing to the next Regular City Council meeting.
Mayor Haila reopened the Public Hearing.
Jason Pomrenke, Real Estate Manager with Lamar of Des Moines, discussed the brightness
measurement of the proposed billboard, highlighting the industry standard of 250 nits. He noted
that Lamar of Des Moines would be agreeable to adjusting the brightness levels based on the
ambient light in the area and noted the lowest luminance levels available to maintain the integrity
of the content readability. He then discussed impact on wildlife and shared the benefits of digital
billboards as compared to the traditional static billboards that create a glow in low light levels.
Mayor Haila then announced that the Public Hearing would be continued to the next Regular
City Council meeting.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON 2024/25 AIRPORT ENTRYWAY IMPROVEMENTS (ENTRY ROAD):
The Public Hearing was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to
speak.
Per the request of the Mayor, Traffic Engineer Damion Pregitzer reviewed the project
specifications and detailed the plans. He highlighted that construction would be phased in order
to maintain access to the airport. Council Member Betcher inquired about the bid prices as
compared to the estimate of the engineers. Traffic Engineer Pregitzer highlighted that the
estimate was consistent with the typical pricing for Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
related projects and staff anticipated that bids would be lower than the estimate to fall in line
with local project pricing.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to accept the report of bids.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Rollins, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-189 approving final
plans and specifications and awarding a contract for the base bid and bid alternate to TK
Concrete, Inc. of Pella, Iowa, in the amount of $554,055.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
HEARING ON 69KV TRANSMISSION LINE RECONSTRUCTION: Mayor Haila opened
and closed the Public Hearing when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to accept the report of bids.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-190 approving
final plans and specifications and awarding a contract to Ward Electric Company of Longmont,
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Colorado, in the amount of $2,228,648.92.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
FITCH FAMILY INDOOR AQUATIC CENTER MONTHLY UPDATE: Director of Parks
and Recreation Keith Abraham, Story Construction Senior Project Manager Troy Turner, and
RDG Planning and Design Architect Brad Rodenburg presented the update. A visual overview of
the facility construction was provided with Manager Turner reviewing exterior work and
Architect Rodenburg discussing interior progress.
Council Member Gartin commended staff for the work done and requested that the written
monthly updates with visual progress pictures be provided to the public in an accessible
electronic format. Director Abraham noted that staff was working to create a webpage on the
City of Ames website with publicly accessible updates, which he anticipated to be available in
the near future.
Mayor Haila inquired about the work being done by Terracon Consultants. Manager Turner
noted that Terracon Consultants had been a great addition to the construction team and are
responsible for inspecting the building envelope, including the vapor barrier that lines the basins
in the natatorium. He described their typical process with the contractors on site and the series of
meetings held for each stage of inspection and review. The conversation then turned to
underground piping, where the responsibility for inspection was explained to belong to Story
Construction Company. Manager Turner reviewed the stormwater plan, highlighting that to date,
no contaminated soil had been found during the construction process.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Corrieri, to accept the Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic
Center monthly update.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
DISCUSSION OF REQUEST FOR REVIEW OF DRIVEWAY REGULATIONS: Director
Diekmann highlighted that it was the direction of the City Council to provide the Ames Home
Builders Association (AHBA) with the opportunity to present information regarding a request for
changes to driveway standards.
The Public Input was opened by Mayor Haila.
Jake Hanson, President of the AHBA, proposed potential changes to the current driveway
standards that would eliminate the restriction at the property line, allow a maximum curb cut of
30 feet with three-to-five-foot flares, and permit driveways leading to the same lot or serving the
same property at least 20 feet apart. Additionally, he noted that AHBA was requesting to
streamline the inspection process for the newly poured concrete to focus only on the driveway
approach. He concluded that AHBA brought this request forward to the City Council based on
feedback received from local builders and homeowners that were unable to achieve efficient use
of space or their desired curb appeal during the construction of new single-family homes.
Justin Dodge, Project Manager with Hunziker Companies, agreed with the proposed changes
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presented by the AHBA and discussed how adoption of the changes would improve aesthetics.
He also emphasized the difficulty in navigating driveways under the current regulations and
clarified how the proposed changes would enhance driver and pedestrian safety.
The Public Input was closed by Mayor Haila when no one else came forward to speak.
The City Council members discussed the impact of the proposed changes, specifically in relation
to pedestrian safety and on-street parking availability. The discussion also included the
proportionality of driveway widths to lot sizes and the potential ripple effects changes could have
on neighborhood parking and aesthetics. The logistics of looped driveways were also reviewed
with Engineer Pregitzer presenting traffic safety points related to density and access points.
Director Diekmann emphasized that staff would need time to evaluate conflict points for looped
driveways and understand the overall impact on neighborhood parking. He shared that should the
City Council wish to move forward with revisions to the current regulations, action authorizing
the submittal of a ZTA application was needed so that staff could thoroughly address the
concerns discussed and review could take place by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to authorize the Ames Home Builders Association to
submit a Zoning Text Amendment application regarding driveway regulations consistent with
the proposal discussed.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The meeting was recessed by Mayor Haila at 8:31 p.m. and reconvened at 8:37 p.m.
REVIEW OF NOTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: Director Diekmann reviewed that in
January, the City Council requested information regarding legal notifications, information
addressing an online legal notification webpage, an evaluation of mailed zoning notifications,
and overall noticing procedures related to modified local/courtesy notice standard proposed with
a text amendment for public hearings and Major Site Development Plan notification that was
tabled on February 25th. Each of these being a separate but related issue, staff reviewed concepts
to satisfy the request.
Improved website options to display legal notices for public access were addressed by Director
Diekmann. The first option presented was the creation of a webpage that displayed all legal
notices published in the Ames Tribune by staff. Director Diekmann highlighted that this option
would require the public to filter the information to determine relevance to the issue of their
interest. The second option was to create a webpage that highlighted the major projects, plans,
and studies, which would include all significant City actions as determined by staff. Director
Diekmann emphasized that this option would create a landing place for items of interest such as
the construction progress of the Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center, the results of county -wide
plan on homelessness, and planning actions including rezonings.
The members of the City Council discussed the benefits of each option. Council Member
Corrieri shared her preference for the second option, which would allow staff to filter out the
noise with consideration of the number of legal notices published weekly while creating a
homebase for community items of interest.
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Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to direct staff to create a Major Projects
Notification webpage and authorize staff to develop a matrix for posting content.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Director Diekmann then discussed mailed zoning notifications. He shared that the current
practice is to mail notification for zoning-related action to properties within 200-feet, which is
not specified by state law but rather matches the zoning protest petition distance. Director
Diekmann presented the current mailing matrix, and the City Council discussed best practices for
notification distance and how increases to the distance would affect the budget.
Mayor Haila opened the Public Input.
Kate Gregory advocated for consistent and transparent notification systems that alerted residents
to issues that impact the community.
Shellie Orngard highlighted residents’ desire to be informed and discussed the benefit of
multiple notification systems.
Mayor Haila closed the Public Input when no one else came forward to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to expand mailed notice distance requirement from
200-feet to 400-feet.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Courtesy notices for Major Site Development Plans were then reviewed. Director Diekmann
explained that the current practice included mandatory publication in the newspaper. He noted
that it was the recommendation of staff to remove the newspaper requirement and replace it with
courtesy notices. He emphasized that the courtesy notices would apply to Major Site
Development Plans outside of Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) and rezonings, and that all
state mandated requirements would still be fulfilled.
The City Council members discussed the importance of maintaining public trust with consistent
communication and reviewed notification processes used by peer cities. Council Member Gartin
inquired about the number of standalone Major Site Development Plans presented for
consideration each year. Director Diekmann noted that standalone plans were infrequent, with
one plan brought forward for consideration in the last year.
Council Member Rollins asked about the signage posted on the site where zoning -related action
was pending. Director Diekmann noted that staff used large white sandwich boards with a metal
sign fastened that alerted of the impending action to those that passed. The City Council
discussed ways to improve the content of the signage, suggesting the addition of a QR code to
the sign for easy access to more information on the City of Ames website.
Director Diekmann concluded that should it be the desire of the City Council to proceed with
courtesy notices, action would include continuing the third reading of the related ordinance,
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which was tabled at the February 25th meeting.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Rollins, to continue with the third reading of the Major
Site Development Plan and public hearings text amendment at the next Regular City Council
meeting as originally proposed.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Director Diekmann then asked when the City Council desired staff to begin implementing the
400-foot mailed notices instead of the current 200-foot notices.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to direct staff to begin using the 400 -foot mailed notice
distance requirement immediately, prior to the passing of the ordinance.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
VOLUNTARY ANNEXATION OF PROPERTY AT 57258 220TH STREET: Director
Diekmann recommended initiation of the voluntary annexation consistent with the annexation
application received by staff.
The Public Input was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to speak.
Director Diekmann clarified that with the initiation of the annexation staff was recommending
the initiation of the concurrent rezoning of the site to General Industrial rather than Agricultural
upon its annexation approval in order to expediate integration of the site into the already
approved industrial Master Plan for the area.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to initiate voluntary annexation of property at 57258
220th Street (East 13th Street).
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW FIRE STATION NO. 2: Fire Chief Rich Higgins shared that
Fire Station No. 2 was built in 1966 and staff had issued a request for proposals (RFP) for
architectural and engineering services for a new station. He highlighted that nine proposals were
received with Brown Reynolds Watford Architects ranking highest in the review process. He
explained that the firm had completed the design on 380 fire stations across the United States and
had a design philosophy that fell in line with the expectation of staff.
Council Member Gartin inquired about the anticipated design outcomes for the new station.
Chief Higgins noted that with the new location of the station, there would be enhanced safety
features that would allow pull through access in the apparatus bay. He also highlighted quality of
life features for staff, which included community spaces as well as areas for individual
separation. Council Member Gartin asked if there would be the opportunity for training within
the facility. Chief Higgins replied in the affirmative.
Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Input when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-191 awarding
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contract to Brown Reynolds Watford Architects of College Station, Texas, for Architectural and
Engineering Services to construct a New Fire Station No. 2 in the amount not -to-exceed
$78,800.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
LEASE AGREEMENT FOR WELCH LOT T IN CAMPUSTOWN: Interim Public Works
Director Justin Clausen and Traffic Engineer Pregitzer presented options for continuing the lease
agreement for Welch Lot T in Campustown. Traffic Engineer Pregitzer highlighted under the
current lease that is set to expire May 31, 2025, the City is responsible for paying $16,950 in rent
as well as two-thirds of the property taxes for use of Lot T. He reviewed the financial summary,
noting that Lot T has operated at a loss, which has motivated staff to investigate parking options
unique to the location since Lot T was the only parking asset that is not independently owned by
the City. Traffic Engineer Pregitzer presented the options identified, including 1) Entering into a
two-year lease at the existing lease terms, 2) Enter into a two-year lease at existing lease terms
with increased parking rates, 3) Allow the lease to expire and promote the use of metered spaces
in the Intermodal Facility, and 4) Negotiate a new long-term lease.
The City Council engaged in robust conversation about changes to structured parking and bigger
picture parking issues. City Manager Steve Schainker shared that it is his recommendation and
the preference of staff to enter into a short-term lease in order to allow time for a comprehensive
review of the current parking system. Traffic Engineer Pregitzer answered questions about
parking demand and the current rate structure. Council Member Beatty-Hansen shared that she
supported a review of the current parking system and was therefore in favor of establishing a
short-term lease. She referenced feedback gathered from the Campustown stakeholders, which
she believed could justify a rate increase to the metered parking considering the unique nature of
the lot.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Corrieri, to direct staff to enter into a two-year lease
agreement at the existing terms with increased rates of approximately $1.50/hour for metered
stalls and $80/month for reserved stalls for Welch Lot T in Campustown.
Council Member Gartin shared his preference to maintain the status quo for parking rates until a
review could take place. Council Member Beatty-Hansen reiterated justification for metered
parking rate increases in Lot T, referencing feedback received and parking demand. Council
Member Betcher concurred, noting that individuals without reserved parking spaces that frequent
Campustown know and utilize free parking in the area.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Council Member Gartin shared concerns over underlying questions regarding the treatment of
property taxes for Lot T since the operation of the land was conducted by a municipality.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to request that the Legal Department review the
tax treatment for the Welch Lot T property.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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MARKETING AND EDUCATION FUNDS FOR FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN FOR
NEW AMES ANIMAL SHELTER: Communications and Outreach Manager Susan Gwiasda
was available for questions.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-192 allocating
$10,000 in marketing and education funds for fundraising campaign for new Ames Animal
Shelter.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 28 OF THE MUNICIPAL
CODE SECTION 28.201 TO INCREASE DRINKING WATER RATES BY 3.5% AND
SECTION 28.304(3) TO INCREASE SANITARY SEWER RATES BY 5.5% FOR
CHARGES TO BE BILLED ON OR AFTER JULY 1, 2025: Mayor Haila opened and closed
the Public Hearing when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Rollins, seconded by Betcher, to pass on first reading an Ordinance amending Chapter
28 of the Municipal Code Section 28.201 to increase drinking water rates by 3.5% and Section
28.304(3) to increase sanitary sewer rates by 5.5% for charges to be billed on or after July 1,
2025.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
SECOND READING RELATING TO ORDINANCE ADOPTING REGULATIONS FOR
CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS IN RENTAL PROPERTIES: Moved by Beatty-Hansen,
seconded by Corrieri, to pass on second reading an Ordinance relating to regulations for carbon
monoxide alarms in rental properties.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to suspend the rules.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to pass on third reading and adopt
ORDINANCE NO. 4554 relating to regulations for carbon monoxide alarms in rental
properties.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
DISPOSITION OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: Mayor Haila noted that there
were five items for consideration. Three items were from Chief Huff regarding false alarm
billing, proposed pet licensing program, and special penalty enforcement areas for Game Day
Parking respectively.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Corrieri, to place the item regarding false alarm billing
on a future agenda.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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Moved by Rollins, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to place the item regarding the proposed pet
licensing program on a future agenda.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to place the item regarding the special penalty
enforcement areas for Game Day Parking on a future agenda.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The fourth item was from Nichole Flippen, General Counsel with Horizon Land Management,
requesting the extension of public sanitary sewer services to Maple Grove Mobile Home Park.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to refer to staff for a memo.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
A request from Jacque Pfaffle for an exemption to allow for awnings and a covered porch in a
residentially zoned area was the final item.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to refer to staff for a memo.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
REPORT OF GOVERNING BODY: Council Member Gartin shared that he attended the
Discover Ames board meeting where it was reported the revenues and occupancy rates are
strong. Council Member Junck attended the Ames Transit Agency Board of Trustees meeting
and highlighted that a contract was awarded for the purchase of mobile column hoists. Mayor
Haila concluded the report by noting that he attended the Story Country Emergency Management
Agency meeting for which he will provide a detailed account of at the next Regular City Council
meeting.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Ex officio Emily Boland explained that she was nominated to serve
in her role again as the ex officio and as the executive nomination on the Ames Transit Agency
Board of Trustees. She highlighted that she was sitting in the audience at the meeting today
because she had not yet been confirmed by the new Senate. She noted that the Senate hearing
was scheduled for the following day.
Council Member Gartin shared that the annual Employee Appreciation Luncheon was held the
prior Thursday. He highlighted that two City employees had served the city for 45 years,
including City Manager Schainker, who he congratulated and thanked for his years of service.
He then announced the retirement of Brian Dieter, CEO of Mary Greeley Medical Center, noting
his significant contributions to the community and the hospital. Council Member Gartin
concluded with the reminder that Stash the Trash was taking place over the coming weekend.
Council Member Rollins highlighted that the first ever Campustown Showdown event was
scheduled for Saturday, April 26th, and she encouraged all to attend. Council Member Beatty-
Hansen then reviewed that the City Council had heard concerns about pedestrian safety during
the Public Forum.
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Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Betcher, to refer to staff for memo on the issue.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Council Member Betcher discussed the Earth Day event. She and Council Member Beatty-
Hansen were present at different times, engaging with students who were excited about various
City initiatives including the Climate Action Plan, recycling programs, and composting
programs. She also congratulated the Ames History Museum and the winners of the Keeping the
Past Alive award. She mentioned that the state legislature proposed changes to the state historic
preservation tax credit program, which would impact single-family properties. Council Member
Betcher highlighted that she had been involved in lobbying efforts to remove a proposed
paragraph that would cut out the use of tax credits for single-family properties.
Assistant City Manager Pa Vang Goldbeck highlighted per the request of the Mayor that the
county-wide plan on homelessness would be presented at the Ames Public Library auditorium on
April 28th at 6:00 p.m. She noted that the session would be open to the public and recorded for
later viewing.
Mayor Haila noted that the meeting report between Council Members and the Old Town
Neighborhood facilitated by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, where comments
were aggregated and next steps were suggested, would be available for review in the near future.
City Manager Schainker added that the City made a commitment to set up safety walks in June,
with routes developed by the neighborhood. He noted that the Council Members as well as staff
and stakeholders were invited to attend. More information about the safety walks would be
provided as it was available.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adjourn the meeting at
9:57 p.m.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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Carly M. Watson, Deputy City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
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Renee Hall, City Clerk