HomeMy WebLinkAboutA001 - May 13, 2025, Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council, Full Minutes1
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA MAY 13, 2025
The Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor John Haila at
6:00 p.m. on the 13th day of May, 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. Ex officio Emily Boland was also
present.
PROCLAMATION FOR "PEACE OFFICERS' MEMORIAL DAY," MAY 15, 2025: Mayor
Haila proclaimed May 15, 2025, National Peace Officers Memorial Day, highlighting that the
police officers of Ames have worked devotedly and selflessly on behalf of the people of the
community—regardless of the peril or hazard to themselves. Majors Dan Walter and Jason Tuttle
accepted the proclamation alongside current and retired members of the Ames Police Department.
Major Tuttle shared that National Peace Officers Memorial Day has served as a powerful reminder
of the courage, dedication, and commitment shown by law enforcement officers across the nation.
He thanked those past and present that served in the line of duty for their service, sacrifice, and
unwavering dedication.
PROCLAMATION FOR "POPPY DAYS," MAY 23-24, 2025: May 23-24, 2025, was
proclaimed by Mayor Haila as Poppy Days. He shared that the American Legion Auxiliary
traditionally distributes poppies for aid to disabled veterans during the month of May. American
Legion Auxiliary Unit 37 Representative Cara Fila accepted the proclamation. She extended her
gratitude to the Mayor and City Council as well as the community for the continued support.
PROCLAMATION FOR "NATIONAL PUBLIC WORKS WEEK," MAY 18-24, 2025:
Mayor Haila proclaimed May 18-24, 2025, National Public Works Week, and noted that public
works professionals are responsible for rebuilding, improving, and protecting our nation’s
transportation, water supply, water treatment, storm water, solid waste systems, public buildings,
and other structures and facilities essential for residents. The proclamation was accepted by Interim
Public Works Director Justin Clausen. He thanked the Mayor, City Council, and administration on
behalf of the public works professionals with the City of Ames for their support of the Department.
PRESENTATION OF THE DISCOVER AMES YEARLY REPORT: Kevin Bourke,
President and CEO of Discover Ames, presented the 2024 Year in Review, highlighting the impact
of the organization on the local economy. He highlighted key points from the report, which
included:
• Tourism generated $228.3 million in economic impact for Story County in 2024, an
increase of $41 million over the past two years.
• Food/beverage and transportation made up about half of tourism spending, with lodging at
19%.
• A market study was conducted to inform its 3-year marketing plan, finding Iowa State
University (ISU) is the primary driver of visitors to Ames.
• A show from the RV There Yet? TV series featuring Ames and Boone County recently
aired on the Discovery Channel.
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• The Discover Ames Community Grant Program awarded over $110,000 to 28 events in
2024 and $119,000 to 37 events in 2025.
• Discover Ames staff secured the boys high school state basketball championships starting
in 2027 on a 5-year agreement.
The City Council members asked questions about impacts from changes to funding for Catch Des
Moines and venue availability limitations in Ames. President and CEO Bourke noted that Discover
Ames has a pipeline of potential events but lacks adequate venue options, particularly conference
space.
CONSENT AGENDA: Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to approve the consent
agenda.
5. Motion approving payment of claims
6. Motion approving Report of Change Orders for period of April 16-30, 2025
7. Motion approving Summary of Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council
on April 22, 2025, and the Special Meeting on May 7, 2025
8. Motion approving Civil Service Candidates
9. Motion approving Ownership Update for Special Class C Retail Alcohol License - Perkins
#1025, 325 South Duff Avenue
10. Motion approving Temporary License Transfer for Class C Retail Alcohol License with
Outdoor Service on June 24-25, July 15-16, and July 29-30, 2025 - Iowa State Center - CY
Stephens
11. Motion approving new 5-Day (May 15 - May 19, 2025) Special Class C Retail Alcohol
License with Outdoor Service - Thirsty Pigs, LLC, 125 East 5th Street, 515 Days
12. Motion approving Premise Update for Class C Retail Alcohol License - Rinconcito
Hispano Tienda y Taqueria, 823 Wheeler Street Suite #1
13. Motion approving the renewal of the following Beer Permits, Wine Permits, and Liquor
Licenses:
a. North Grand Cinema, 2801 Grand Avenue, Special Class C Retail Alcohol License
b. Octagon Center for the Arts, 427 Douglas Avenue, Special Class C Retail Alcohol
License with Outdoor Service
c. Casey's General Store #2298, 428 Lincoln Way, Class E Retail Alcohol License
d. Hy-Vee Fast and Fresh #2, 4018 Lincoln Way, Class E Retail Alcohol License
e. Gateway Hotel and Conference Center, LLC, 2100 Green Hills Drive, Special Class
C Retail Alcohol License
14. Motion approving request from Discover Ames for Fireworks Permit for display from ISU
Parking Lot G10 east of Jack Trice Stadium at 10:00 p.m. on July 3, 2025, with a rain date
of July 5, for Independence Day Celebration
15. RESOLUTION NO. 25-194 approving request to modify FY 2024/25 ASSET allocation
to Heartland of Story County
16. RESOLUTION NO. 25-195 approving reappointment of Emily Boland as ex officio ISU
Student Liaison to City Council
17. RESOLUTION NO. 25-196 approving appointments of Iowa State University Student
Government representatives to the Ames Transit Agency Board of Trustees
18. RESOLUTION NO. 25-197 approving encroachment permit for signs at 2420 Lincoln
Way, Suite 104
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19. RESOLUTION NO. 25-198 setting May 27, 2025, as the date of public hearing to consider
adoption of the final amendment to the Fiscal Year 2024/25 Budget
20. RESOLUTION NO. 25-199 approving Iowa DOT Airport State Grant Application for
2025/26 Airport Facility Improvements (Jet Fuel Farm)
21. RESOLUTION NO. 25-200 approving a New Two-Year Lease Agreement for Welch Lot
T in Campustown
22. RESOLUTION NO. 25-201 approving Amendment No. 1 to Professional Services
Agreement with Strand Associates, Inc. of Madison, Wisconsin, for East Lincoln Way
Corridor Study (Duff Ave to S Skunk River) in an amount not to exceed $14,000
23. RESOLUTION NO. 25-202 approving contract and bond for the 2019/24 Low Point
Drainage Improvements with Iowa Water & Waste Systems of Boone, Iowa, in the amount
of $523,245.20
24. RESOLUTION NO. 25-203 approving contract and bond for the 2024/25 Pavement
Restoration - Slurry Seal Program with Fort Dodge Asphalt Company, of Fort Dodge,
Iowa, in the amount of $231,228.20 (contingent upon receipt of bond)
25. RESOLUTION NO. 25-204 approving contract and bond for the 69kV Transmission Line
Reconstruction with Ward Electric Company, of Longmont, Colorado, in the amount of
$2,228,648.92
26. RESOLUTION NO. 25-205 approving contract renewal for the Right of Way Tree
Trimming and Removal Program to Ames Story Tree and Lawn, Ames, Iowa
27. RESOLUTION NO. 25-206 awarding contract to ChemTreat, Inc., of Glen Allen, Virginia,
for Chemical Treatment Program for the one-year period from July 1, 2025 through June
30, 2026 in an amount not-to- exceed $387,000
28. RESOLUTION NO. 25-207 awarding contract to Rowell Chemical Corporation of
Hinsdale, Illinois, for the purchase of liquid sodium hypochlorite in FY 2025/26 for the
Water Plant and Power Plant
29. RESOLUTION NO. 25-208 awarding contract to Skyline Salt Solutions, LLC of Dubuque,
Iowa, for the purchase of rock salt for the Snow and Ice Control Program in the amount of
$215,400
30. RESOLUTION NO. 25-209 awarding contract to Electric Pump of Ames, Iowa, for the
purchase and installation of flow monitors for the sanitary sewer system in the amount of
$243,201
31. RESOLUTION NO. 25-210 awarding a contract to WHKS & Co., Ames, Iowa, for
engineering services for the Homewood Hole #9 Crossing Project in the amount of $81,050
32. RESOLUTION NO. 25-211 awarding contract to Altec Industries of Saint Joseph,
Missouri, for the purchase of one 2025 Altec DB41B mini-derrick with trailer for Electric
Distribution in the total amount of $266,224, to be delivered and paid for after July 1, 2025
33. RESOLUTION NO. 25-212 awarding contract to Capital City Equipment Co. of Des
Moines, Iowa, for the purchase of two 2025 Bobcat skid steer loaders, one for Parks
Maintenance and one for Public Works Streets in the total amount of $140,646.08
34. 2021/22 Concrete Pavement Improvements (24th Street and Stange Road):
a. RESOLUTION NO. 25-213 approving Change Order No. 2 to Con-Struct, Inc., of
Ames, Iowa, for the 2021/22 Concrete Pavement Improvements (24th Street and
Stange Road) in the amount of ($122,387.40)
b. RESOLUTION NO. 25-214 accepting 2021/22 Concrete Pavement Improvements
(24th Street and Stange Road) as completed by Con-Struct, Inc, of Ames, Iowa, in
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the amount of $4,254,540.83
35. RESOLUTION NO. 25-215 approving Change Order No. 2 for the Park Maintenance
Complex Expansion Project to SVPA Architects in the amount of $18,330
36. RESOLUTION NO. 25-216 approving Change Order No. 3 with Ames Trenching and
Excavating for Emergency Utility Repair in the amount of $14,299
37. RESOLUTION NO. 25-217 accepting Carpet for Ames Public Library project as
completed by Poindexter Flooring Inc, of Indianola, Iowa, in the amount of $304,341.00
38. RESOLUTION NO. 25-218 accepting 2023/24 Seal Coat Street Pavement Improvements
as completed by Manatt's, Inc., of Ames, Iowa, in the amount of $1,877,244.29
39. RESOLUTION NO. 25-219 accepting HVAC Replacement Project at the Power Plant as
completed by Mechanical Comfort, of Ames, Iowa, in the amount of $272,650
40. RESOLUTION NO. 25-220 accepting SAM Pump Station Standby Generator project as
completed by Price Electric Inc., of Robins, Iowa, in the amount of $166,390
41. RESOLUTION NO. 25-221 accepting completion of landscaping requirement at Bluestem
Boulders, 525 E 2nd Street, and releasing financial security in full
42. RESOLUTION NO. 25-222 approving Final Plat for Dayton Ridge Subdivision Plat 2
located at 2305 Dayton Ridge Road in Rural Story County
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motions/Resolutions declared carried/adopted unanimously, signed by the
Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
PUBLIC FORUM: Mayor Haila opened the Public Forum.
Travis Toliver, Vice President of Downtown Development for the Ames Regional Economic
Alliance and Executive Director of Ames Main Street, extended an invitation to the Mayor and
City Council, their families, and the general public to attend the third annual 515 Days hosted in
Downtown Ames on May 15 and 16.
Maddy Nasuti shared concerns regarding the quality of Ames water as well as the operations and
investigations of the Ames Police Department related to controlled substances.
Mayor Haila addressed the remarks from Resident Nasuti and Director of Water and Pollution
Control John Dunn refuted claims that Ames water was unsafe for drinking. Mayor Haila then
closed the Public Forum when no one else came forward to speak.
CONVERSATIONS ON HOMELESSNESS AMES AND STORY COUNTY STRATEGIC
PLAN 2025: Assistant City Manager Pa Vang Goldbeck provided an overview of the plan, noting
the nine recommendations for implementation identified by the consultant. She noted that it was
the recommendation of staff to reorder the recommendations provided for quicker implementation
with a focus on supporting on-the-ground service provider partnerships. She concluded that staff
was requesting that the City Council accept the report, highlighting that accepting the report would
acknowledge the receipt and identify next steps.
The City Council Members discussed the timeline for implementation, coordination with regional
partners, and how to make the overall strategy clearer to the public. Assistant City Manger Vang
Goldbeck highlighted collaboration with the Analysis of Social Services Evaluation Team to be
integral success and noted opportunities to utilize Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
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funding to help assist already invested local dollars.
The Public Input was opened by Mayor Haila.
Kate Gregory encouraged the City Council to determine an implementation strategy to create
clarity for the public.
The Public Input was closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-223 accepting the
Conversations on Homelessness Ames and Story County Strategic Plan 2025 Report.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
PARTNER CITY COOPERATION AGREEMENT WITH THE MUNICIPALITY OF
PODUJEVA, REPUBLIC OF KOSOVO: President of the Ames International Partner Cities
Association Karla McCollum and past President Cindy Hicks presented a proposal to establish
Podujeva, Kosovo, as a new sister city for Ames. They highlighted that Podujeva has similarities
to Ames in population size, agricultural focus, and economic/educational priorities with potential
exchange in the areas of economic development, education/youth programs, public safety,
arts/culture.
The City Council Members inquired about managing multiple sister city relationships and the
selection process for Podujeva. President McCollum explained the different focuses of the Koshu,
Japan, and Podujeva, Kosovo, partnerships and the longstanding Iowa-Kosovo connection.
Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Input when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-224 approving partner
city cooperation agreement with the Municipality of Podujeva, Republic of Kosovo.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
PAY AS YOU SAVE (PAYS) FEASIBILITY STUDY: Director of Electric Services Donald
Kom and Sustainability Coordinator Nolan Sagan reviewed the proposed study, highlighting that
the study would be fully funded by the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) with the
expectation that the City would commit staff time to ensure success. Director Kom shared that
PAYS allows the utility to invest upfront in energy efficiency projects, repaid through a charge on
customer bills; however, to ensure financial viability, projects only qualify if savings exceed the
monthly cost. He also highlighted that the study would help determine costs, benefits, and program
design without committing to implementation.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen asked about the types of projects that could be included. Director
Kom confirmed that PAYS would potentially cover appliances, home repairs, and even solar
panels.
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The Public Input was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-225 authorizing City staff
to partner with the Iowa Economic Development Authority to complete a Pay As You Save
(PAYS) feasibility study.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT IN BROOKSIDE PARK: Director of Parks and Recreation
Keith Abraham presented plans for new playground equipment at Brookside Park. He noted that
the project would add new generational swings allowing parents and children to swing together as
well as have a fire truck theme to complement the existing fire truck in the park. He then
highlighted donations received from the Ames Noon Kiwanis Club to help fund the project, noting
appreciation for their involvement and plans for a ribbon cutting event after installation.
Council Member Betcher asked about accessibility features and the possibility of adding an Oodle
Swing. Director Abraham shared that staff could look into adding an accessible Oodle Swing if
the budget allows.
Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Input when no one came forward to speak.
The future of the existing fire truck was referenced by Mayor Haila. Director Abraham noted that
the fire truck may eventually need to be removed for safety reasons, but staff would seek a
replacement given its iconic status.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-226 awarding a contract
to Boland Recreation, Marshalltown, Iowa, for the purchase of and installation of playground
equipment in Brookside Park near Hickory Shelter in the amount of $130,000.
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 Rollins, to request staff include the installation of an Oodle Swing
at the playground near Hickory Shelter should the budget allow for available funding after the
installation of the proposed equipment.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
SIDEWALK INSTALLATION AT 700 E 13TH STREET (PARKS MAINTENANCE
FACILITY): Planning and Housing Director Kelly Diekmann presented a request to waive
sidewalk installation requirements for a new Parks Maintenance Facility at 700 E 13th Street. He
explained that while sidewalks are typically required for new developments, the topography and
future trail plans in this area make a sidewalk impractical; thus, staff recommended approval of
the waiver.
The Public Input was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-227 approving waiver.
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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.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS FOR PARKS AND RECREATION: Director
Abraham reviewed the proposed projects and discussed available funding. He explained that while
there was currently a projected $81,000 shortfall across the three projects, there were multiple
options to address the shortfall, including not awarding bid alternates or using savings from other
projects that would be completed in the near future.
Council Member Gartin asked questions pertaining to the timeline for the splash pad completion
and parking considerations for the splash pad at Daley Park. Director Abraham said that staff aimed
to open the splash pad by Memorial Day weekend 2026 and would monitor parking needs in the
area. He highlighted the connectivity to the trail system, which would promote active modes of
transportation.
Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Input when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-228 approving
preliminary plans and specifications for the Daley Park Splash Pad Project, setting June 11, 2025,
as the bid due date and June 24, 2025, 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.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-229 approving
preliminary plans and specifications for the Ada Hayden Heritage Park Path Replacement Project,
setting June 11, 2025, as the bid due date and June 24, 2025, 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.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-230 approving
preliminary plans and specifications for the Parks and Recreation Maintenance Expansion Project,
setting June 11, 2025, as the bid due date and June 24, 2025, 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.
INITIATION OF VOLUNTARY ANNEXATION FOR MULTIPLE PROPERTIES IN
THE IRONS SUBDIVISION AND AMES GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB: Director
Diekmann, presenting with Planner Amelia Schoeneman, shared that applications had been
received from a sufficient number of residents in The Irons as well as the Ames Golf and Country
Club to proceed with initiation of the annexation, which was the recommendation of staff. Director
Diekmann noted that questions remained about future sanitary sewer extension requirements and
costs, which would be addressed by staff in the future, once project phasing was known for the
development to the south.
The Public Input was opened by Mayor Haila.
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Lee Huey stated his opposition to the annexation, highlighting the financial burden to the residents
of The Irons.
Daryle Vegge encouraged the City Council to request staff complete a cost analysis for the
connection to municipal sanitary sewer.
Dr. Randy Braden noted his intention to sell his home to relocate prior to the annexation and
requested the City Council postpone initiation.
The Public Input was closed by Mayor Haila when no one else came forward to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to initiate a Voluntary Annexation, including non-
consenting properties to avoid islands and make more uniform boundaries.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to direct staff to bring back a memo prior to the
information requested from the City Council in March that explores the pros and cons of an
exemption for the properties located in The Irons from tying into the municipal sanitary sewer as
well as the option of an incremental approach where the property owner would tie into the
municipal sanitary sewer at the end of life of their septic system or at another point in time the
property owners chooses.
Motion withdrawn.
The meeting was recessed at 8:17 p.m. by Mayor Haila and reconvened at 8:22 p.m.
HOUSING DEVELOPMENT ON CITY PROPERTY WEST OF HARRISON ROAD AT
WELBECK DRIVE: Brenda Dryer, Senior Vice President of the Ames Regional Economic
Alliance, and JD Albright, Developer with Keystone Equity, detailed the project and reviewed the
proposed construction timeline. It was emphasized that the project would include owner-occupied
townhomes priced under $300,000.
The City Council members asked questions about price guarantees, construction quality, and
owner-occupancy requirements. Developer Albright provided assurances on construction
standards and explained how tax credit requirements and appraisals would help maintain
affordability targets.
Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Input when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to set date of Public Hearing for land purchase option.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
INITIATION OF VOLUNTARY ANNEXATION OF LAND SOUTH OF THE IOWA
STATE RESEARCH PARK ADJACENT TO 4140 S 530TH AVENUE: Director Diekmann
discussed the proposed annexation and noted that it was consistent with Ames Plan 2040.
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Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Input when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Corrieri, to initiate a Voluntary Annexation with a non-consenting
property to make more uniform boundaries.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
2025-26 PROPOSED ANNUAL ACTION PLAN PROJECTS FOR COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) AND HOME PROGRAMS: Housing
Coordinator Vanessa Baker-Latimer presented the proposed plans, highlighting that the activities
outlined in the proposed Action Plan were consistent with the goals and priorities identified in the
Consolidated Plan. She noted that input for the proposed plans was obtained through an in-person
event and a survey. Feedback from the input focused on providing more affordable housing,
assistance to non-profit organizations for shelter rehabilitation, neighborhoods, and programs for
low-income households.
The new projects proposed for the Annual Action Plan included a rehabilitation program for public
facilities and water system improvements for public infrastructure. Housing Coordinator Baker -
Latimer shared that no new projects were proposed for the HOME Program. She then engaged
with questions from the City Council. Conversation focused on how allocated funds could help
support the homelessness population. Housing Coordinator Baker-Latimer highlighted different
opportunities to support homelessness, noting the limitations of the City administering long-term
programs. She committed to returning to the City Council with specific examples of how funds
could support homelessness within the proposed plans.
The Public Input was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-231 approving 2025-
26 Proposed Annual Action Plan Projects for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and
HOME Programs.
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 MODIFYING BILLBOARD
STANDARDS AND CREATING NEW DIGITAL DISPLAY STANDARDS: Director
Diekmann highlighted that, per the request of the City Council, staff had negotiated with Lamar
of Des Moines to lower the brightness of the billboard and included that update in the ordinance
presented for consideration.
The Public Hearing was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to pass on first reading an Ordinance on proposed zoning
text amendment modifying billboard standards and creating new digital display standards.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON ESTABLISHING AN URBAN REVITALIZATION AREA AND PLAN
FOR PROPERTIES LOCATED AT 329 SE 5TH STREET AND 320 SOUTH DUFF
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AVENUE: Director Diekmann noted that no changes were made to the draft plan after it was
presented by staff to the City Council.
Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Input when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to pass on first reading an Ordinance establishing the
329 SE 5th Street and 320 South Duff Avenue Urban Revitalization Area.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-232 approving Urban
Revitalization Area Plan.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
HEARING ON EMERGENCY GENERATOR SYSTEM FOR THE POWER PLANT: The
Public Hearing was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to accept the report of bids.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Rollins, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-233 approving final
plans and specifications and awarding a contract to Van Maanen Electric, Inc. of Newton, Iowa,
in the amount of $310,670.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
HEARING ON 2024/25 ACCESSIBILITY ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM: Mayor Haila
opened and closed the Public Input when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Rollins, seconded by Corrieri, to accept the report of bids.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-234 approving
final plans and specifications and awarding a contract to TK Concrete, Inc. of Pella, Iowa, in the
amount of $88,250.00.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
HEARING ON REZONING OF AND MAJOR SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND
PRELIMINARY PLAT FOR 113 NORTH DAKOTA AVENUE (DAKOTA TOWNES): The
Public Hearing was opened by Mayor Haila.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Corrieri, to continue the Public Hearing to the Regular
Meeting of the Ames City Council scheduled for May 27, 2025.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 28 OF THE AMES
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: Moved by Corrieri,
seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to pass on second reading an ordinance amending Chapter 28 of the
Ames 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.
THIRD READING AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 4548 ON A TEXT
AMENDMENT MODIFYING CERTAIN PUBLIC HEARING NOTIFICATION
REQUIREMENTS BY AMENDING CHAPTERS 20 AND 29 OF MUNICIPAL CODE:
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO.
4548 on a text amendment modifying certain Public Hearing Notification Requirements by
Amending Chapters 20 and 29 of Municipal Code.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
DISPOSITION OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: Mayor Haila noted that there were
nine communications for consideration. The first was a request for permanent parking restrictions
on Eisenhower Avenue from Daniel Bush.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to request a memo from staff.
Vote on Motion: 5-1. Voting Aye: Beatty-Hansen, Betcher, Corrieri, Junck, and Rollins. Voting
Nay: Gartin. Motion declared carried.
A memo regarding on-street parking on Suncrest Drive from Traffic Engineer Damion Pregitzer
was the second item.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to place the item on a future agenda.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Concerns on cigarettes and smoking on Main Street from Karen Eggert was the next item.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Rollins, to request a memo from the City Attorney.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The fourth item was from Bradley Hemmestad concerning funding for the painting of murals in
Ames.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Betcher, to refer the item to the Public Art Commission.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
An invitation from Moses A. Ward, President of the Ames Branch of the NAACP, to sponsor the
4th Annual Ames/Story County Juneteenth Celebration was the fifth item.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to place the item on a future agenda.
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Vote on Motion: 5-0-1, Rollins abstaining due to conflict of interest. Motion declared carried
unanimously.
The remaining items included opposition to development at 113 N Dakota Avenue from the
Residents of Westbend Drive, clarification of property taxes for Welch Avenue Lot T, updates for
the Resource Recovery and Recycling Campus (R3C), and proactive actions in addressing
homelessness. All items were noted by City Manager Steve Schainker to be for information only.
REPORT OF GOVERNING BODY: Council Member Beatty-Hansen provided a report to the
City Council regarding the activities of the Ames Regional Economic Alliance following its
meeting. Mayor Haila noted that he would be providing a report from the Story County Emergency
Management meeting to the City Council in the near future.
Ex officio Boland shared that the ISU Student Government and City Council approved the
appointment of Lauren Neal, a senior in Community and Regional Planning, to the Transit Agency
Board of Trustees, as well as the reappointment of herself.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Ex officio Boland thanked the City Council for approving her
reappointment as ex officio and a member of the Transit Agency Board of Trustees. She shared
that she was excited to continue her role and noted that she would be completing an internship in
Minnesota this summer, thus her upcoming attendance at meetings may be virtual. She concluded
by congratulating graduating ISU students and encouraged all to attend 515 Days.
Council Member Junck highlighted that over 100 attendees joined the Mayor and City Council’s
Bike Ride the previous Saturday; the 10-mile route showed off the Ames park system. She also
extended congratulations to graduating students.
Council Member Gartin invited the community to attend the Memorial Day program on Monday,
May 26th, which would begin at 10:15 a.m. He then reflected on the discussion concerning
homelessness and actionable steps for implementation.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to place discussion regarding the ordinance on
sidewalk obstruction and the application of curfew in public spaces on a future agenda.
Vote on Motion: 5-1. Voting Aye: Beatty-Hansen, Betcher, Corrieri, Gartin, and Junck. Voting
Nay: Rollins. Motion declared carried.
Council Member Corrieri shared that she kicked off the Ames Animal Shelter capital fundraising
campaign the Friday prior. She shared excitement for the new sheltering facility and highlighted
the efficiency of the Microchip Clinic hosted by shelter staff a few weeks ago.
Council Member Rollins invited interested organizations, volunteers, and attendees to participate
in the 4th Annual Ames/Story County Juneteenth Celebration.
Council Member Betcher wished students well and congratulated graduating students. She
highlighted the graduation of Cleo Westin, who served as the attending Iowa State Daily reporter
at many City Council meetings.
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Mayor Haila also extended congratulations to Cleo Westin, noting the high value reporting of the
Iowa State Daily. He shared that he attended the annual fly-in event to Washington, D.C. along
with Council Member Gartin and Council Member Corrieri. He highlighted the importance and
utility of the event, stating that many attendees expressed positive feedback.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adjourn at 9:50 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