HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - Meeting of the Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (AAMPO) Transportation Policy Committee 09/25/2018MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE AMES AREA
METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION (AAMPO)
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE AND
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA SEPTEMBER 25, 2018
MEETING OF THE AMES AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE
The Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (AAMPO) Transportation Policy Committee
meeting was called to order by Ames Mayor and voting member John Haila at 6:00 p.m. on the 25th
day of September, 2018, in the City Council Chambers in City Hall, 515 Clark Avenue, pursuant to
law. Other voting members present were: Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen, City of Ames; Gloria Betcher,
City of Ames; Tim Gartin, City of Ames; David Martin, City of Ames; Chris Nelson, City of Ames;
Lauris Olson, Story County; and Bill Zinnel, Boone County Supervisor. Voting member Juan
Bibiloni, Transist Representative arrived at 6:03 p.m. and Transit Planner Shari Atwood.
AAMPO Administrator and Ames Public Works Director John Joiner, City of Ames Transportation
Planner Tony Filippini, City of Ames. Voting members Amber Corrieri, City of Ames and Jonathan
Popp, Gilbert Mayor; were absent.
APPOINTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR JOHN JOINER TO STATEWIDE
URBAN DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS (SUDAS) BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Moved by Nelson,
seconded by Zinnel, to approve appointment of Public Works Director John Joiner to the Statewide
Urban Design Specifications (SUDAS) Board of Directors.
Vote on Motion: 8-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
RESOLUTIONS CERTIFYING PROJECTS IN IOWA CLEAN AIR ATTAINMENT
PROGRAM ICAAP GRANT APPLICATION CONFORM TO AAMPO’S REGIONAL
TRANSPORTATION PLANNING PROCESS: Tony Filippini advised that the ICAAP helps to
fund transportation projects and programs that result in attaining or maintaining the national ambient
air quality standrds (NAAQS). While the Ames Area MPO is “in attainment” of the NAAQS,
ICAAP funds are available for projects in the area that result in reductions in vehicle emissions and
traffic congestion.
The AAMPO is required to review all potential ICAAP applications within the area for the following
three items: (1) completeness, (2) financial feasibility, and (3) conformity with the AAMPO
transportation planning processes and plan. The AAMPO Technical Committee reviewed three
applications for approval, all of which were from CyRide. The ICAAP grant application is due to
the Iowa Department of Transportation by October 1, 2018.
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Moved by Betcher, seconded by Olson, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 18-530 certifying that the
West Ames changes (#12 Lilac new route & Lilac bus expansion) project, added frequency for
service with #1 red, #7 purple, and #11 cherry routes in the Iowa Clean Air Attainment Program
grant application conform to the AAMPO’s regional transportation planning process.
Vote on Motion: 8-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Olson, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 18-531 certifying that the #9
plum summers and ISU breakdays for CyRide in the Iowa Clean Air Attainment Program grant
application conform to the AAMPO’s regional transportation planning process.
Vote on Motion: 8-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Olson, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 18-532 certifying that the #5
yellow midday service for CyRide route in the Iowa Clean Air Attainment Program grant application
conform to the AAMPO’s regional transportation planning process.
Vote on Motion: 8-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
Transit Representative Juan Bibiloni arrived at 6:03 p.m.
MOTION APPROVING THE FTA TITLE VI PROGRAM FOR SUBMISSION TO THE
IOWA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION: Tony Filippini stated that, as a recipient of
Federal funding, the AAMPO is required to operate its programs and activities in accordance with
the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and its amendments, known as Title VI, which prohibit discrimination
on the basis of race, color, or national origin. He noted that the Ames Area MPO updates the FTA
Title VI program every three years and submits it to the Iowa Department of Transportation to
demonstrate compliance. Mr. Filippini stated that this submission is similar to the last one done in
2015, and if approved tonight will be good until 2021.
Council Member David Martin noted that on the Language Communication Guidelines, it states “For
the purpose of this Policy, LEP persons are citizen’s households who are eligible to participate
and/or benefit from the various federally funded programs.” He said that the was looking at the word
“citizen” and wanted to know if this applies to US citizens or everyone in the community. John
Joiner stated that it is just referencing the community.Council Member Tim Gartin stated he
would caution changing a word as there may be implications throughout the rest of the document.
Mr. Joiner pointed out that the whole point of the document is for equal access. He will look into the
wording.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Martin, to approve the FTA Title VI Program for Submission
to the Iowa Department of Transportation.
Vote on Motion: 9-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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PAVEMENT, BRIDGE, SYSTEM PERFORMANCE, AND FREIGHT PERFORMANCE
TARGETS: Mr. Filippini noted that this is a new item that is being presented after a couple years
of the Service Transportation Bill and they are finally getting to implementation. He noted that the
State will be providing and reporting these performances to the Federal Highway Administration
with two-year and four-year targets. The Ames Area MPO is required, within 180 days of the State’s
Submission of the Pavement Bridge, System Performance and Freight performance measures, to
adopt safety performance targets. Mr. Filippini stated that upon approving safety measures, the
Ames Area MPO will be required to reflect the performance measures and targets in all Long-Range
Transportation Plans and Transportation Improvement Programs.
Council Member Tim Gartin asked if this was merely a reporting mechanism or if it had any
implications on how roads would be maintained. Mr. Joiner stated that the two performance
measures apply to the National Highway System, which would include I-35, US 30, and US 69. Ms.
Betcher inquired if this would also be applied to portions of US 69 that are surface streets. Mr.
Joiner stated it would apply.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to approve Pavement, Bridge, System performance,
and Freight performance targets.
Vote on Motion: 9-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
FY 2018/19 SAFETY PERFORMANCE TARGETS: Mr. Filippini stated that this was the second
year in which the MPO has considered the safety targets reported by the Iowa DOT; it will become
an annual action. Upon approving safety measures, the Ames Area MPO will be required to reflect
the performance measures and targets in all Long-Range Transportation Plans and Transportation
Improvement Programs. Each update to the Long-Range Transportation Plan will report system
performance measure progress towards achieving those targets.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Olson, to approve the FY 2018/19 Safety Performance Targets.
Vote on Motion: 9-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Bibiloni to adjourn the AAMPO Policy Committee meeting at 6:12
p.m.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
The Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor John Haila at 6:15 p.m.
on September 25, 2018, in the City Council Chambers in City Hall, 515 Clark Avenue. Present from
the Ames City Council were Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen, Gloria Betcher, Tim Gartin, Chris Nelson,
and David Martin. Council Member Corrieri arrived at 6:20 p.m. Ex officio Member Allie Hoskins
was also present.
Mayor Haila stated that he wanted to take a moment to reflect on the tragedy from last week. As a
City it is still grieving the loss of Celia Barquin Arozamena. He stated that law enforcement did an
amazing job with communication to the City, partners at ISU, and the School District. He noted that
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the City is going to continue to move forward and Ames is still a safe community and will continue
to work on ways to enhance safety within the community.
PROCLAMATION FOR MANUFACTURING DAY: Mayor Haila proclaimed October 5, 2018,
as “Manufacturing Day.” Accepting the Proclamation were Dan Culhane, President and Chief
Executive Officer of the Ames Economic Development Commission, and Drew Kamp, Director,
Public Policy & Business Development. Mr. Culhane mentioned that manufacturing is an important
part of the economy. He wanted to raise the profile of how important manufacturing is in the
marketplace.
Council Member Amber Corrieri arrived at 6:20 p.m.
CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Beatty-Hansen requested to pull Consent Item No. 8, a 5-
day Special Class C Liquor License for Wheatsfield Cooperative. Council Member Gartin requested
to pull item No. 14, Youth and Shelter Services request for exclusive use of Municipal Lot P, from
the Consent Agenda for separate discussion.
Moved by Nelson, seconded by Corrieri, to approve the following items on the Consent Agenda:
2.Motion approving payment of claims
3.Motion approving Minutes of Regular Meeting of September 11, 2018
4.Motion approving Report of Contract Change Orders for September 1 - 15, 2018
5.Motion approving renewal of the following Beer Permits, Wine Permits, and Liquor Licenses:
a.Class C Liquor, B Wine, Catering, & Outdoor Service - +39 Restaurant, Market, &
Cantina, 2640 Stange Road
b.Class C Liquor & Outdoor Service - Wallaby’s Grille, 2733 Stange Road
c.Class C Liquor - HyVee #1 Clubroom, 3800 W. Lincoln Way
d.Class C Beer and B Wine - HyVee Gas #5018, 636 Lincoln Way
6.Motion approving 5-day (October 3 - 8) Special Class C Liquor License for Gateway Hotel &
Conference Center at ISU Alumni Center, 420 Beach Avenue
7.Motion approving 5-day (November 17) Special Class C Liquor License for Gateway Hotel
& Conference Center at ISU Alumni Center, 420 Beach Avenue
8.Resolution approving 2018 Street Finance Report
9.Resolution approving a Memorandum of Understanding with the International Union of
Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 234, which authorizes a hiring bonus and increase in Step
A wages for the CyRide Mechanic Assistant classification
10.Resolution approving request from Ames Community Preschool Center to carry over
$54,257.22 in unspent FY 2017/18 ASSET funds to FY 2018/19 and authorizing staff to
reimburse services rendered in FY 2017/18 that have not yet been paid
11.Resolution approving Neighborhood Improvement Project Grant to Spring Valley
Neighborhood in the amount of $1,010
12.Resolution approving Purchase Agreement for acquisition of property for the construction of
North River Valley Well Field and Pipeline Project
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13.Outdoor Ice Rink:
a.Motion accepting donations from Iowa Wild and Wells Fargo
b.Resolution approving Hold-Harmless Agreement
14.Requests from ISU Homecoming Central Committee for ISU Homecoming Events on Friday,
October 26, 2018:
a.ExCYtement in the Streets
i.Motion approving blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit
ii.Resolution approving closure of portions of Sunset Drive, Ash Avenue, Gray
Avenue, and Pearson Avenue from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Iii.Resolution approving suspension of parking regulations for closed areas from
5:00 p.m. Thursday, October 25, until 11:00 p.m. Friday, October 26
b.Central Campus Events
i.Motion approving request for Fireworks Permit for display from ISU Central Campus
at midnight on Friday, October 26, for Mass Campaniling
15.Resolution approving closure of and waiver of fees for 33 parking meter fees in Lot Z from 8
AM to 6 PM for Boys & Girls Club of Story County “Over the Edge” event on October 12,
2018
16.Resolution approving preliminary plans and specifications for Scaffolding and Related
Services and Supplies for Power Plant; setting October 24, 2018, as bid due date and
November 13, 2018, as date of public hearing
17.Resolution approving preliminary plans and specifications for 2018/19 Sanitary Sewer
Rehabilitation (Wilson and 15th); setting October 31, 2018, as bid due date and November 13,
2018, as date of public hearing
18.Resolution awarding contract to Alstom Grid, LLC, of Charleroi, Pennsylvania, for 69kV SF6
Circuit Breakers for Haber Road Substation in the amount of $75,030 (inclusive of Iowa sales
tax)
19.Resolution approving contract and bond for 2017-18 Right-of-Way Restoration Project
20.Resolution approving contract and bond for Power Plant Maintenance Services Contract,
pending receipt of Performance Bond
21.Resolution approving Change Order No. 2 with Minturn, Inc., for the WPC Structural
Rehabilitation Project - Phase 2 in the amount of $ 36,800
22.Resolution approving Change Order No. 1 with TEI Construction Services, Inc., for Boiler
Maintenance Services Contract for Power Plant in the not-to-exceed amount of $450,000
23.Resolution approving Plat of Survey for 1810 and 1920 SE 16th Street
24.Resolution approving Plat of Survey for 2812 and 2814 West Street
25.Resolution approving Plat of Survey for 1311 and 1405 Buckeye Avenue
26.Resolution approving Plat of Survey for 2200, 2210, 2211-2438 Hamilton Drive; 2355, 2351,
2361-2367 Hamilton Circle; 2340-2347 Hilton Court; and, 2205 Green Hills Drive
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motions/Resolutions declared carried/adopted unanimously, signed by the
Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
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MOTION APPROVING 5-DAY (OCTOBER 17) SPECIAL CLASS C LIQUOR LICENSE
FOR WHEATSFIELD COOPERATIVE: Council Member Beatty-Hansen said she pulled this
item from Consent in order to abstain from the vote due to a potential conflict of interest.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri to approve a 5-day (October 17) Special Class C Liquor
license from Wheatsfield for a special event at 2508 Mortensen.
Vote on Motion: 5-0-1 Voting aye; Betcher, Nelson, Martin, Gartin, Corrieri. Voting nay: None.
Abstaining: Beatty-Hansen. Motion declared carried.
YOUTH AND SHELTER SERVICES FOR EXCLUSIVE USE OF MUNICIPAL LOT P:
Council Member Tim Gartin said he had sent an email to Council Members proposing that they follow
the procedures outlined in the Iowa Code, 364.7, which provides that residents are given notice and
have a hearing. He would like to treat it the way they would real estate even though by State Code
states that only a lease that exceeds three years would require this. Mr. Gartin noted that he spoke with
the City Manager and City Attorney and the cost of publishing the notice would be minimal. Mr.
Schainker asked Mr. Gartin for clarification if he wanted Iowa Code, 364.7 to be applied to any lease
that exceeds three years or just for parking. Mr. Gartin stated he only wanted to apply it at this time
to the Youth and Shelter Services and address a change to the process at a later time.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen to move forward with the three -year lease with Youth
and Shelter Services, but under the Iowa Code, 364.7.
Mr. Martin asked if there was a time frame that the Youth and Shelter Services needed to have the
lease documented. Mr. Schainker stated that even though the lease has expired, Youth and Shelter
Services is continuing at the rate of $20 instead of the $35 that is being proposed. Traffic Engineer
Damion Pregitzer noted that Youth and Shelter Services will continue under the terms of the old
lease until a new one is put in place. Mr. Martin asked if anyone could comment on how long it
would take to do publish notices. It was stated that the process would take about two weeks longer.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
PUBLIC FORUM: Mayor Haila opened Public Forum.
Jon Hunstock, 4142 Eisenhower Lane, stated that this is his second appearance to City Council on
the same topic. Mr. Hunstock mentioned that he reviewed the report on speeding on Hyde Avenue
and based on his experience with psychology testing and statistics he feels there is a bias based on
the way the study was conducted. He noted that the test does not address if cars are really speeding
on Hyde Avenue. Mr. Hunstock explained that previously there were no stop signs at the intersection
by where he lives and he constantly heard screeching of tires, honking of car horns, and yelling.
Subsequently, stop signs were put up at the intersection. He noted that for 20 plus years, nothing
else has been done. With the completion of the concrete road between the City of Ames and Gilbert,
the problem has increased. Mr. Hunstock stated, on behalf of Bloomington Heights Home Owners
Association, he requested to have the study done. When reviewing the study, the conclusion was that
nothing needed to be done. He explained that there is still speeding and illegal passing being done
on Hyde Avenue, which is a 25-mph residential zone. Mr. Hunstock requested that a new traffic
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study be done that would scientifically reveal what is truly happening.
Mayor Haila closed Public Forum at 6:34 p.m.
SAFETY IN PARKS, NATURAL AREAS, AND TRAILS: Chief of Police Chuck Cychosz,
stated that his purpose this evening was to give an overview of the crime prevention actions that the
City of Ames has undertaken since the tragic murder of Celia Barquin Arozamena.
Chief Cychosz explained what the Police Department’s current practices were in relation to natural
areas and trails prior to this incident. They responded to public complaints and staff observations
of camping in public property, and they also assisted private property owners with trespassing issues.
Every year they remove campers and camping materials from natural areas. The Police Department
also applies the principles of crime prevention through environmental design to the development of
City projects and also provide crime prevention recommendations to private developers who go
through their development review process. He gave the following examples of what is currently
being done to increase safety:
•Lighting will be done along the Brookside Park path from 6th Street to 13th Street.
•Added or upgraded security lights in various shelters, restrooms, and parking lots throughout
the parks.
•Edges of paths/trails are regularly mowed to maintain visibility, which can extend out to a
width of 12 feet.
•Created an invasive species task force to review sight lines and what areas they are having
difficulty monitoring.
•Park Watch program that encourages the public to provide concerns or suggestions with park
properties.
Chief Cychosz asked the public to call the Police Department or Parks and Recreation with their
concerns.
Chief Cychosz then noted the following examples of immediate changes they have made to the
Department’s practice:
•An action team was assembled with Parks and Recreations, Iowa State University, and Ames
schools to review maintenance practices in public natural areas and to make an initial
identification of other areas of concern.
•In Squaw Creek Park, they have already done some brush clearing and cleaned up camping
materials from two individuals and will continue to monitor the area.
•Bike trail connecting South 4th Street to the ISU Veterinary Medicine Complex will have
the brush cleared.
•Police officers are also doing extra patrols in the area and will continue to do so for the next
several weeks.
Chief Cychosz stated that they have worked with the Emergency Residence Project to offer access
to alternative housing and services in the community. The Emergency Residence Project is a gateway
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to a range of support services that are available to the homeless. He noted that the Ames Police
Department has a Mental Health Advocate on its staff, who work with the Eyerly Ball Regional
Crisis Intervention team. The Emergency Residence Project is also working on developing a
homeless outreach process.
Chief Cychosz noted that not all camps are on public property, and when camps are on private
property, the City can assist the homeowners who are having difficulty removing trespassers from
their property. He explained they are still doing further review, and it is possible that they may bring
back more recommendations to City Council.
Chief Cychosz wanted the public to know that not all homeless people are dangerous and asked that
the public not stereotype a group of people. He asked that a broader discussion on safety be done
within the community. There are currently security cameras being placed in Campustown and also
several private entities have installed cameras. Safety walks are done by Iowa State University
Police and the Ames Police Department on Campus to help identify safety issues. These reviews
look at lighting, vegetation, and other safety issues.
Chief Cychosz noted safe transportation is always a concern for residents. CyRide is a prominent
provider of safe transportation and works on getting citizens home safely. The City of Ames Police
and Iowa State University Police offer public education, safety training, Website materials,
presentations, and other resources.
Council Member Betcher asked if work was going to be done on the bike path between South 4th and
South 16th. Chief Cychosz stated that they will be starting work at South 4th Street and continue
down South 16th Street by Vet Med. Parks and Recreation Superintendent Joshua Thompson stated
a press release will be going out in a day or two letting citizens know when the bike path will be
closed and when it will reopen.
Holly Varnum, 2403 Ferndale Avenue, Ames said she was at this meeting to speak about safety, as
she is concerned about someone being murdered in broad daylight, and right now, she doesn’t feel
safe. She feels more Police escorts need to be available throughout the City and not just for students
on Campus at ISU. She noted that she walks everywhere in Ames and has started to carry a whistle
with her. Ms. Varnum stated that there needs to be more resources for people with disabilities like
herself and people need to know how to defend themselves no matter if it is day or night. She also
would like to see transportation provided to people who need it. She noted that she has a tough time
talking to authorities but has been getting help from the Mental Health Advocate with the City of
Ames Police Department to help her approach authorities. She asked how they should confront a
homeless person, or if they see someone taken away, what is the appropriate action someone should
take. She asked if authorities should be called first or should they approach the person in question.
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Mayor Haila encouraged Ms. Varnum that if she sees something to say something to the Police
Department.
RENOVATION OF AND FUNDING FOR BROOKSIDE PARK RESTROOMS: Parks and
Recreation Superintendent Joshua Thompson explained the five options for the Brookside restroom
renovation as follows:
1.Keep the current structure, replace the roof, keep the men’s and women’s restroom,
and add an ADA compliant/gender neutral restroom at a cost of $152,096.
2.Keep the current structure, replace the roof, and renovate the interior to include four
gender neutral restrooms at a cost of $210,262.
3.Demolish the current structure, build a new building using conventional construction
which would include four gender neutral restrooms at a cost of $309,553
4.Demolish the current structure and replace with a prefab structure which would
include four gender neutral restrooms at a cost of $265,164.
5.Demolish the current structure and contract with a vendor to provide portable
restrooms in Brookside Park (four standard and two ADA complaint portables) at a
cost of $12,000.
Mr. Thompson stated that the Parks and Recreation Commission met last week and recommended
Option 2.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen asked if the bathroom would double as a storm shelter. Mr.
Thompson stated that thathas not been discussed, but something they could look into when doing
further development. Mr. Schainker mentioned in order to accomplish this project, they would need
to authorize funds from two other projects be reallocated to this project and use savings from
completed CIP projects.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Corrieri, to approve Alternative 2, directing staff to develop
plans and specifications to renovate the current Brookside restroom to include the current men’s and
women’s restrooms and one ADA compliant gender neutral restroom; use savings from completed
CIP projects for the Brookside Project; and use funds from the Ames High Tennis Court Repair
Project and the North River Valley Park Restroom Renovation Project for the Brookside Restroom
Project.
Council Member Tim Gartin asked if the bathrooms would contain changing tables. Mr. Thompson
stated they have not gotten into the design details, yet but the initial design did show two changing
tables. Mayor Haila asked about security with doors to the restroom. Mr. Thompson stated that
currently the stalls do not have doors, and this is something they will be reviewing with the plans and
specifications. Council Member Nelson asked if the canopy is going to be replaced. Mr. Thompson
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stated that the outside of the structure has not been planned yet, but City Council will see the plans
and specifications in the future.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared unanimously.
ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT TO DOWNTOWN SERVICE CENTER ZONING FOR
EXCEPTION TO MINIMUM STORIES AND MINIMUM FLOOR AREA RATIO: Planning
and Housing Director Kelly Diekmann noted that, on June 9th a workshop was held about Downtown
related issues, including development standards. One of those directions was to review a request
from Kurt Friedrich to discuss an option for exceptions to the minimum floor area ratio (FAR) and
height requirements. Mr. Diekmann mentioned that in July, staff reported back to City Council
offering some alternatives, and after discussion the City Council initiated a change to modify the
exception criteria for the perimeter of Downtown, specifically the 6th Street area. Mr. Diekmann
stated they have prepared an exception option and would like the City Council to give direction to
publish notice. He commented that the Planning and Zoning Commission had reviewed the
proposed text amendment and recommended adopting new exception criteria for building additions
on sites with frontage along 6th Street.
Council Member Betcher noted that on the draft DSC is crossed out and only the CSC is left. Mr.
Diekmann stated that in the Exceptions in Section 29.1506, she is correct as CSC has its own version
of an exception process.
Council Member Nelson stated that when they discussed DSC previously, there was concern about
the peak height and the roof massing. He asked if this would introduce the potential for more of that
or would that not even addressed. Mr. Diekmann stated they attempted to cover that in Standard
(b)4, which reads “The proposed project demonstrates a height and building placement that
emphasizes an urban design of Main Street style characterized by height compatible with buildings
downtown, and maintaining or creating a street edge with buildings.” He noted that the Zoning
Board of Adjustment will have to determine if someone has a tower element that is a compatible
height or not.
Council Member Martin asked what the theory was on having the exception only for existing
buildings. Mr. Diekmann stated that there is already an exception for new construction; however,
it addresses a different concern.
Council Member Gartin asked if there had been any feedback from architects or contractors who
would have an interest in these types of changes. Mr. Diekmann stated that they had not had any
feedback. Their notification process is to send an email to a “Developers List” who get a notice prior
to a Planning & Zoning Commission meeting letting them know what is going to be discussed.
Mayor Haila wanted to know if it would be beneficial to use the “Developers List” to attach the
Council Action Form with proposed changes emailed out to them.
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Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Corrieri to approve Alternative 1: to direct staff to finalize
the Zoning Text Amendment for minimum number of stories and floor area ratio exceptions for
additions within the DSC zoning district and publish notice for a public hearing on adopting and
ordinance.
Further discussion was started by Council Member David Martin questioning why they would want
to apply this change to only existing buildings as he would opt for Alternative 2. Council Member
Beatty-Hansen noted that the effect would be very minimal.
Vote on Motion: 5-1. Voting aye: Beatty-Hansen, Betcher, Corrieri, Nelson, Gartin. Voting nay:
Martin. Motion declared carried.
ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT TO REDUCE FRONT-YARD TREE PLANTING
REQUIREMENTS BY 50%: Planning and Housing Director Kelly Diekmann stated that staff was
seeking direction from the City Council if to proceed with a Text Amendment. Staff had asked if
they would be interested in looking at corner lots for reducing tree planting requirements. He noted
that two options had been prepared and presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission. The
Commission determined that, after only one year of implementation of the landscape standards, it
was premature to reduce the planting standards and recommended that the City Council decline to
approve a Zoning Text Amendment. As a separate motion, the Planning and Zoning Commission
voted to recommend that the City Council initiate a review of the Landscape Ordinance in greater
depth at an appropriate time in the future to determine what is working well and what is not.
Council Member Nelson stated that some sketches were sent to City Council showing different
frontage examples. Mr. Diekmann stated that Attachment B was the current standard; and The first
page of Attachment C was to reduce the front yard by 50%, and the second page was to reduce the
parking lot ratio. Mr. Nelson stated they had previously discussed corner lot properties, and when
looking at the sketches, there is still good coverage.
Justin Dodge, Hunziker Companies, 105 S 16th Street, Ames asked for a little more relief in
reduction as the amount of vegetation they have to install with the new Ordinance is significantly
higher.
Scott Renaud, Fox Enginering, 414 S. 17th Street, Suite 107, Ames, stated he had spoken a lot during
the last Planning & Zoning Commission meeting, and his main point then was that they needed to
go back and refine the Ordinance as he feels there are a few areas that need to be improved. Mr.
Renaud stated that cost is a big issue. He had worked on three hotel projects with the new
Ordinance. The budget for landscaping would normally be within the $15,000 to $20,000 range and
now it is in the $80,000 to $100,000 range. He noted that they have to have too many trees which
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makes it hard for them to do the appropriate lighting for safety issues. Mr. Renaud mentioned that
he and a few other engineers had a list of some recommended changes to help refine the Ordinance.
Council Member Gartin asked Mr. Renaud if he had provided these recommended refinements to
Mr. Diekmann. Mr. Renaud stated they had not, but have been working on a list to present to staff.
Mr. Gartin wanted to know if Mr. Renaud has worked in other cities to see what they are doing. Mr.
Renaud stated that he had worked on site plans for Clive. They have too many trees as well as it is
hard to see where the building is as the signs are covered and it feels like a forest at times.
Moved by Nelson, seconded by Corrieri, to approve Alternative 1 directing staff to publish hearing
notice for consideration of a Zoning Text Amendment to reduce front-yard tree planting
requirements by 50%.
Council Member Betcher stated that she had concerns about these changes last time and still has
concerns. She would like to review the entire Ordinance instead of going piece-by-piece. Council
Member Beatty-Hansen stated that she is sympathetic to Planning and Zoning’s concerns, but she
does not want to dive into the whole Landscape Ordinance again. Further discussion was had about
how the Council Members felt about making changes to the Landscape Ordinance.
Vote on Motion: 3-3. Voting aye: Nelson, Gartin, Corrieri. Voting nay: Betcher, Beatty-Hansen,
Martin. Mayor opted to not vote. Motion failed.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen to approve Alternative 4 directing staff to not
proceed with a Zoning Text Amendment.
Council Member Nelson asked that they not do anything and just wait to have more conversation on
this topic at a later time. Council Member Martin stated that if they don’t do anything then staff will
proceed with Alternative 4 anyway and not proceed with a Zoning Text Amendment.
Motion withdrawn.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Nelson, to direct staff to begin work on a solicitation of opinions
regarding what recommended changes need to be done to the Landscape Ordinance.
Mr. Diekmann asked Council when this would need to be done as they just did a staff prioritization
of projects just a few weeks ago. He noted that this can be done; however, it would not be addressed
until at least December 2018.
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Council Members had more discussion about giving the Landscape Ordinance more time, as it had
been in effect for just a little over a year.
Vote on Motion: 3-3. Voting aye: Nelson, Gartin, Corrieri. Voting nay: Betcher, Beatty-Hansen,
Martin. Mayor opted to not vote. Motion failed.
SOUTHWEST GROWTH AREA INFRASTRUCTURE AND DEVELOPMENT
AGREEMENT REQUEST FROM LANDMARK DEVELOPMENT: Planning and Housing
Director Diekmann presented a location map for the Southwest Growth Area. He stated this was in
response to a letter that City Council had received in August from Landmark Development to
support infrastructure extensions for development of approximately 170 acres of land along 240th
Street in the Southwest Growth Area. The City’s Land Use Policy Plan identifies the location of the
proposed site as part of the Southwest Incentivized Growth Area. The City had studied a number of
sewer options as part of the Worle Creek Sanitary Sewer Extension Study in 2005, which was later
incorporated into a 2006 City report on the costs of Growth Priority Analysis. The 2006 report was
updated in 2008 along with the Land Use Policy Plan amendments changing the description of
growth area terminology from Priority Growth Area to Allowable Growth Areas and incentivized
and non-incentivized. Mr. Diekmann noted that a prior Council had identified a two sewer system
to serve the area rather than a single service in the Worle Creek area, which divided the Southwest
area into the north half and south half; the utility infrastructure is different for both. He mentioned
that one issue is that Iowa State controls land between the two halves, so there is a gap between
institution land.
Mr. Diekmann stated if City Council is interested in supporting the development of the Southwest,
it would indicate that to the developer. Council would prioritize the Planning and Development
Agreement process for this fall and winter and commit staff time to work with the developer to
define the concept further. He noted that one thing they do not have is an understanding of the scope
of the project in regards to the number of housing units or configuration.
Director Diekmann stated the two questions before City Council tonight were:
1. Does the Council want to consider paying for the extension of the sanitary sewer line from
State Avenue to the South Dakota.
2. Is the Council willing to consider amending the current budget and next year’s CIP to
finance the sewer extension and infrastructure oversizing.
Council Member Corrieri noted that they are being asked to indicate whether they would consider
paying for the extension and consider amending the current budget, but it is hard to say without more
information. Mr. Diekmann agreed that City Council does not have enough information to make a
full decision tonight as staff would need to work with the developer to define the scope of the
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project, refine the infrastructure cost estimates, complete a traffic study, and prepare terms for a
Development Agreement regarding assignment of costs, phasing, and development obligations. Staff
would also need to work with ISU to determine the feasibility and timing of securing an easement
for the north sewer line.
Phil Iasevoli, 3108 South Dakota Avenue, Ames, pointed on the map where his house is located and
noted that he had spoken before to City Council on the Worle Creek Study. He stated that the
amount of buildable land is 1,700 acres, but that does not take into account the land that is controlled
by ISU and several single-family homes with several acres. Mr. Iasevoli noted that the land itself
for development is not buildable ground as it is in the flood plain area and the soil is not able to be
built on. He is concerned with the egress along Hwy 30 with what is already being done as there had
been a lot of growth with apartments, Iowa Attack volleyball/basketball, and Tennis courts. He
mentioned that when there are activities going on, traffic is backed up on Hwy 30 almost to State
street. If development occurs, than additional egress is going to be needed, especially, if the Fire
Department needs to get through since there is not a fire station on the west side of town. Mr.
Iasevoli stated that the speed limit is 40 mph but people are constantly speeding through the area.
He also wanted to mention that a large area is within the United Community School District.
Christine Hausner, 3505 245th Street, Ames, stated that her parents live off Dartmoor. She is
speaking on behalf of the Champlin area and there is no one that would voluntarily go into the City.
She agrees with what Mr. Iasevoli stated earlier that there is not a lot of developable land. Ms.
Hausner stated that if the City is going to build, they need to be aware of the Creek. They would be
destroying native pristine timber, which will be an issue. She also mentioned that there is a snake
on the endangered species list that lives by the Creek. She stated that they are willing to make a
compromise, but not willing to be annexed.
Kim Christiansen, 2985 South Dakota Avenue, Ames, wanted to know if it was a precedent for the
City to spend three to four million dollars to have a developer do what they want to do. Mr.
Christiansen stated that anything in the United School District would be a problem as some would
need to do open enrollment and the School does not want to allow that. He gave a print out to Mr.
Diekmann showing what areas are able to be developed.
Council Member Gartin asked how long the area had been in the Southwest Growth Area. Mr.
Diekmann stated that it was identified in 1997. Ms. Corrieri noted that the area in question has been
targeted for incentives for several years. Mr. Schainker stated the real issue tonight would be if the
Council wants to invest staff time to keep discussing plans with the developer.
Further discussion ensued on the Southwest Growth Area. Ms. Betcher asked to what extent could
ISU play a spoiler in all this regardless of their intentions. Mr. Diekmann stated if ISU did not grant
the easement, there was another option to run sewer on 240th and South Dakota going south and
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connecting to the Dartmoor area. It would be more costly as a lift station would have to be
constructed.
Nick Halfhill, Landmark Development Services, 9550 Hickman Road, Clive, stated they had been
doing research in the area for about a decade, looking for a piece of land in Ames to develop. They
are poised and ready to hit the ground running, but want to make sure there is a desire to have a
discussion with staff to bring back the answers that City Council is looking for.
Moved by Corriei, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to have staff continue discussions with Landmark
and provide more information on the extension of Sanitary Sewer line.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared unanimously.
The meeting recessed at 8:26 p.m. and reconvened at 8:32 p.m.
HEARING ON AMENDMENTS TO FISCAL YEAR 2018/19 BUDGET REGARDING
CARRY-OVERS: Budget Officer Nancy Masteller stated that they are bringing the first amendment
to the 2018/19 budget. It is a little over $70 million and consists primarily of carry-over items. These
are CIP projects that were approved during the last fiscal year and are uncompleted. The departments
are carrying them forward, so the budget needs to be amended.
Mayor Haila opened the public hearing. The hearing was closed after no one requested to speak.
Moved by Gartin , seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 18-554 approving the
amendments to Fiscal Year 2018/19 Budget regarding carry-overs:
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON PROPOSAL TO ENTER INTO A SEWER REVENUE LOAN AND
DISBURSEMENT AGREEMENT AND TO BORROW MONEY IN A PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $5,700,000: Finance Director, Duane Pitcher stated that these funds
had been in the budget for some time and have been funded by the State Revolving Fund (SRF),
which is the same fund that was used for the new Water Treatment Plant.
The public hearing was opened and closed by Mayor Haila since there was no one wishing to speak.
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Moved by Betcher , seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 18-555 approving the
Sewer Revenue Loan and Disbursement Agreement and to borrow money in a principal amount not
to exceed $5,700,000.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
ORDINANCE TO ALLOW REMOTE PARKING AS AN ACCESSORY USE IN THE
NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL ZONING DISTRICT: The public hearing was opened and
closed by Mayor Haila since there was no one wishing to speak.
Moved by Correri, seconded by Betty-Hansen, to pass on first reading an ordinance to allow remote
parking as an accessory use in the Neighborhood Commercial Zoning District.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
ORDINANCE REGARDING BUILDING HEIGHT/SETBACK FOR INTERIOR CLIMATE-
CONTROLLED MINI-STORAGE FACILITIES ADJACENT TO RESIDENTIAL USES IN
THE HIGHWAY-ORIENTED COMMERCIAL ZONING DISTRICT: The public hearing was
opened and closed by Mayor Haila since there was no one wishing to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to pass on first reading an ordinance regarding building
height/setback for interior climate-controlled mini-storage facilities adjacent to residential uses in
the Highway-Oriented Commercial Zoning District.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON MAJOR SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN AMENDMENT FOR 2151
COTTONWOOD ROAD: The public hearing was opened and closed by Mayor Haila since there
was no one wishing to speak.
Moved by Corrieri , seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 18-533 approving the Major
Site Development Plan for 2151 Cottonwood Road, to allow for revisions to the garage siding
material, and changes to the dimensions of each garage.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
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ORDINANCE REVISING PARKING REGULATIONS ON MCKINLEY DRIVE:
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Gartin to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO. 18-
4370 revising park regulations on McKinley Drive.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Ordinance declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made
a portion of these Minutes.
DISPOSITION OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: Moved by Corrieri, seconded by
Gartin, to refer the letter from Chuck Winkleblack regarding Carney’s properties on South Duff and
direct staff to bring back it back as an action item.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Nelson, to refer to staff for a memo regarding the letter from Carson
Sinclair about the complaint against the City for failing to make sure a property was complying with
Code and requesting a payment of $5,900.
Vote on Motion: 4-2 Voting aye; Betcher, Nelson, Martin, Gartin. Voting nay: Beatty-Hansen,
Corrieri. Motion declared carried.
Moved by Martin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to schedule a workshop in early 2019 with an
invitation to hear from the community, anti-trafficking agencies, and massage therapists regarding
the possibility of adopting a City ordinance to address the problem of illicit massage businesses and
human trafficking.
Vote on Motion: 3-3 Voting aye: Betcher, Martin, Beatty-Hansen. Voting nay: Corrieri, Gartin,
Nelson. Mayor Haila voted aye to break the tie. Motion declared carried.
Council members concurred to take no action on the staff report from Damion Pregitzer regarding
the speed study results on Hyde Avenue (Bloomington Heights).
Mr. Diekmann explained to Council members stated that after speaking with Mr. Grandon the City’s
Zoning Ordinance defines funeral homes and funeral facilities. If they don’t have the elements of the
definition they are not defined as a funeral home. This is different from the State’s definition. He
stated that Council is being asked for the local definition to match the State’s definition. A
discussion was had by Council to discuss the differences between funeral homes and funeral
facilities.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Gartin, for the Mayor to communicate to Mr. Grandon that
the Council is not interested in pursuing the issue at this time.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to not move forward with the email from Ludmila Scott
requesting to consider the removal of parking meters by the Library and to replace them with free
20 minute parking.
Vote on Motion: 5-1, voting aye: Betcher, Nelson, Martin, Beatty-Hansen, Corrieri. Voting nay:
Gartin. Motion declared carried.
Moved by Nelson, seconded by Martin, to refer to staff a memo in response to Justin Dodge’s
request to consider a Minor Text Amendment that would allow trading out shrubs/grasses for trees
for property located at the corner of Dayton and Lincoln Way.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Martin to refer to staff for a memo in regards to a letter
received by Justin Gersema requesting that the City to consider installing a sidewalk from Kellogg
Avenue to Duff Avenue on the north side of 14th Street.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Mayor Haila asked that any communications to the Council be given no later than the Friday before
a City Council meeting. If they come in after that, they will be added to the next Council meeting’s
disposition to Council.
COUNCIL COMMENTS:Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, directing staff to come
back to City Council with recommendations for City procedures on leasing of all City owned real
estate pursuant to Iowa Code Section 364.7.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Nelson, to move forward with reconsideration of the annexation and
to put it back on the next Agenda.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Ex officio, Allie Hoskins wanted to thank the Ames Police Department, Mayor Haila, and City Staff
to update the public as to what all was going on and the community effort to make Ames safer. She
also noted that there are a few possible dates for the annual Joint Student Government and City
Council Meeting, she will have further discussion with Diane Voss to arrange.
CLOSED SESSION: Council Member Gartin asked City Attorney Mark Lambert if there was a
legal reason to go into Closed Session. Mr. Lambert replied in the affirmative, citing Code of Iowa
Section 21.5(1)c to discuss matters presently in or threatened to be in litigation.
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Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to go into Closed Session under Section 21.5(1)c,
Code of Iowa, to discuss matters presently in or threatened to be in litigation.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The meeting recessed at 9:08 p.m. and reconvened in Closed Session at 9:10 p.m.
The Council returned to Regular Session at 9:43 p.m.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Gartin, to have staff come back with updated language for the non-
conforming section of Article 3 of the zoning code.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Nelson, seconded by Betcher, to adopt Resolution No. 18-556 approving settlement with
a City of Ames employee regarding claim for pregnancy discrimination.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declare carried unanimously.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Betcher to adjourn the meeting at 9:46 p.m.
______________________________________________________________________
Amy L. Colwell, Recording Secretary John A. Haila, Mayor
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