HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (AAMPO) Transportation Policy Committee 05/27/2014MINUTES OF THE AMES AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
TRANSPORTATION POLICY (AAMPO) COMMITTEE AND
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA MAY 27, 2014
MINUTES 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 Ann Campbell at 7:00 p.m. on the 27th day of May, 2014,
in the City Council Chambers in City Hall, 515 Clark Avenue, pursuant to law with the following
voting members present: Gloria Betcher, City of Ames; Amber Corrieri, City of Ames; Tim Gartin,
City of Ames; Matthew Goodman, City of Ames; Chet Hollingshead, Boone County; Chris Nelson,
City of Ames; and Wayne Clinton, Story County. City of Ames Transit Director Sheri Kyras and
Garrett Pedersen, representing the Iowa Department of Transportation, were also present. Jonathan
Popp, City of Gilbert; Hamad Abbas, Transit representative; and Peter Orazem, City of Ames, were
absent.
Transportation Engineer Damion Pregitzer introduced Tony Filippini, the City’s new Transportation
Planner.
P UBL IC HEARING ON P ROPOS ED F Y 2 01 5 T RANSP ORTAT ION P LANNING W ORK
P R O G R A M (T P W P ): Mr. Pregitzer explained that the TPWP includes several elements to ensure an
integrated transportation system. One of several elements is the review of development plans to
determine impact on the transportation system. This includes reviewing potential changes to the
Land Use Policy Plan or Urban Fringe Plan, which are closely linked to the transportation system.
A large work activity in the TPWP is the update of the Long-Range Transportation Plan. A public
input session was held on May 1, 2014, on the Draft TPWP. No revisions were requested by the
public. The final TPWP must be submitted to the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) by June
1, 2014.
Moved by Clinton, seconded by Hollingshead, to approve the Final FY 2014 Transportation
Planning Work Program for submission to the Iowa Department of Transportation.
Vote on Motion: 8-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
DRAFT FY 2015-18 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (TIP) AND SETTING
DATE OF PUBLIC HEARING: Moved by Betcher, seconded by Goodman, to approve the Draft FY
2015-18 Transportation Improvement Program and set July 8, 2014, as the date of public hearing.
Vote on Motion: 8-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Nelson, seconded by Clinton, to adjourn the AAMPO Policy
Committee meeting at 7:06 p.m.
Vote on Motion: 8-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
The Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor Campbell at 7:09 p.m.
on May 27, 2014, in the City Council Chambers in City Hall, 515 Clark Avenue. Present from the Ames
City Council were Gloria Betcher, Amber Corrieri, Tim Gartin, Matthew Goodman, and Chris Nelson.
Ex officio Member Lissandra Villa was also present. Council Member Peter Orazem was absent.
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CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Gartin asked to pull Item No.17 (Extension of temporary
rental of metered stalls adjacent to 119 Stanton Avenue for First American Bank), and Council
Member Goodman asked to pull Item No. 23 [Requests of Main Street Cultural District (MSCD)
for Main Street Country Night] from the Consent Agenda for separate discussion.
Moved by Nelson. seconded by Goodman, to approve the following items on the Consent Agenda:
1.Motion approving payment of claims
2.Motion approving Minutes of Regular Meeting of May 13, 2014, and Special Meetings of May 12,
19, and 20, 2014
3.Motion approving certification of civil services applicants
4.M otion approving Rep ort of Contra ct Cha nge Orde rs for M ay 1 -15, 20 14
5.Motion approving new Class B Liquor License for Gateway Hotel & Conference Center, 2100
Green Hills Drive
6.Motion approving 5-Day Special Class C Liquor License for Ames Public Library Friends
Foundation, 515 Douglas Avenue
7.Motion approving 5-Day licenses for Olde Main Brewing Company, pending dram shop insurance
coverage:
a.May 31 - June 4: Special Class C Liquor License at ISU Alumni Center, 420 Beach Avenue
b.June 2 - 6: Special Class C Liquor License at Reiman Gardens, 1407 University Boulevard
c.June 4 - 8: Special Class C Liquor License at Hansen Agriculture Student Learning Center, 2516
Mortensen Road
d.June 9 - 13: Special Class C Liquor License at ISU Alumni Center, 420 Beach Avenue
e.June 12 - 16: Special Class C Liquor License at Reiman Gardens, 1407 University Boulevard
8.Motion approving renewal of the following beer permits, wine permits, and liquor licenses:
a.Class B Beer – Pizza Hut #4303, 436 South Duff Avenue
b.Class C Liquor – Old Chicago, 1610 S. Kellogg Avenue
c.Class C Liquor – Della Viti, 323 Main Street, #102
9.Motion delegating to City staff the ability to administratively close State Avenue for ISU’s
reconstruction project
10.RESOLUTION NO. 14-290 approving 2014/15 Pay Plan
11.RESOLUTION NO. 14-291 ap prov ing 201 4/15 H um an Serv ice s A nn ual Co ntrac ts
12.RESOLUTION NO. 14-292 approving 2014/15 Commission On The Arts (COTA) Annual Grants
13.RESOLUTION NO. 14-293 approving request of Heartland Senior Services for reallocation of
funding
14.RESOLUTION NO. 14-294 approving request of Fire Department for reallocation of CIP funding
for a parking lot-encompassing fence and rolling gate at Fire Station 2
15.2014 Depa rtme nt Bureau Justice Edw a rd Byrne M emorial Justice A ssista nce Gr ant (JA G ) Program:
a.M otion approving submission of G rant application
b.R ESO LU TIO N N O . 14-295 approving M emorandum of U nderstan ding w ith Story C ounty for
disbursement of funds
16.Southeast Entryway Project:
a.RESOLUTION NO. 14-296 accepting as complete and satisfactory the Southeast Entryway
Project, ordering final payment, determining amount to be assessed, and ordering Final Plat and
Schedule
b.RESOLUTION NO. 14-297 adopting final assessment and levying assessments
17.RESOLUTION NO. 14-298 approving extension of temporary rental of metered stalls adjacent to
119 Stanton Avenue for First National Bank
18.RESOLUTION NO. 14-299 awarding Engineering Services Contract to Civil Design Advantage,
LLC, of Grimes, Iowa, in an amount not to exceed $82,400 for 2014/15 Collector Street Pavement
Improvements (Woodland Street and West Street)
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19.RESOLUTION NO. 14-300 awarding Engineering Services Contract to Howard R. Green, Inc., of
Johnston, Iowa, in an amount not to exceed $35,000 for 2012/13 Concrete Pavement Improvements
Contract #2 (Southeast 5 Street)th
20.RESOLUTION NO. 14-301 awarding Engineering Services Contract to WHKS & Co. of Ames,
Iowa, in an amount not to exceed $74,200 for 2014/15 Concrete Pavement Improvements Contract
#1 (Hayward Avenue)
21.RESOLUTION NO. 14-302 awarding Engineering Services Contract to Clapsaddle-Garber
Associates, Inc., of Ames, Iowa, in an amount not to exceed $61,300 for 2014/15 Concrete
Pavement Improvements Contract #2 (Ridgewood Avenue and 9 Street)th
22.RESOLUTION NO. 14-303 awarding Engineering Services Contract to Bolton & Menk, Inc., of
Ames, Iowa, in an amount not to exceed $104,470 for 2014/15 CyRide Pavement Improvements
(24 Street and Bloomington Road)th
23.Requests for Midnight Madness:
a.Motion approving 5-day Class B Beer Permit and Outdoor Service Area in City Hall Parking
Lot N
b.Motion approving tapping of up to seven kegs at once during post-race party with maximum of
20 kegs total during the evening
c.M otion approving blanket V en ding License for July 12 and 1 3
d.R ESO LU TIO N N O . 14-306 approving closure of certain streets and pa rking lots on July 12 and
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e.RESOLUTION NO. 14-307 approving suspension of parking regulations and enforcement from
6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
f.RESOLUTION NO. 14-308 approving waiver of fee for Vending License and usage of
electricity
24.Request for Captain Midnight’s Run for Cystic Fibrosis on August 29, 2014:
a.RESOLUTION NO. 14-309 approving closure of Bloomington Road, from Roy Key Avenue
to Hoover Avenue, from approximately 7:00 to 7:45 p.m.
25.RESOLUTION NO. 14-310 awarding contract to Larson Contracting Central, LLC, of Lake Mills,
Iowa, for Concrete Acid Foundation and Containment Structure in the amount of $30,329 (inclusive
of applicable Iowa sales tax)
26.RESOLUTION NO. 14-311 awarding contract to Freightliner of Des Moines, Iowa, in the amount
of $69,107 for purchase of Truck Chassis for 45-foot Aerial Truck
27.RESOLUTION NO. 14-312 awarding contract to Dewey Ford of Ankeny, Iowa, for purchase of
Four-Wheel Drive Truck Chassis in the amount of $35,043; and to Truck Equipment, Inc., of Des
Moines, Iowa, for purchase of Aerial Platform, Body, and Accessories in the amount of $92,523,
all for 40-Foot Aerial Truck
28.RESOLUTION NO. 14-313 awarding contract to Public Information Kiosk, Inc., of Germantown,
Maryland, for Library Media Dispensing System in the amount of $69,499
29.RESOLUTION NO. 14-314 awarding contract to DPC Industries, Inc., of Omaha, Nebraska, for
2014/15 Liquid Sodium Hypochlorite in the amount of $.789/gallon
30.RESOLUTION NO. 14-315 awarding contract to Graymont Western Lime, Inc., of West Bend,
Wisconsin, in the amount of $146/ton for purchase of Pebble Lime for Water Treatment for FY
2014/15
31.RESOLUTION NO. 14-316 approving purchase of items to complete RFID Implementation CIP
Project from SirsiDynix/Bibliotheca for the Library in the amount of $107,188.92
32.RESOLUTION NO. 14-317 waiving Purchasing Policies and approving sole-source purchase of
ADS and PDS Vessels for Resource Recovery Plant from Air-Cure Incorporated of Minneapolis,
Minnesota, in the amount of $253,449
33.RESOLUTION NO. 14-318 renewing contract for FY 2014/15 with Waste Management of Ames,
Iowa, in the amount of $.1249/mile/ton for Hauling Ferrous Metals for Resource Recovery Plant
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34.RESOLUTION NO. 14-319 approving contract and bond for 2013/14 Water System Improvements
Program - Water Service Transfer #1 (10 Street)th
35.RESOLUTION NO. 14-320 approving contract and bond for Vet Med Substation Feeder Extension
36.RESOLUTION NO. 14-321 approving contract and bond for Asbestos Maintenance Services for
Power Plant
37.RESOLUTION NO. 14-322 accepting completion of Replacement Superheater Attemperator at
Power Plant
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolutions/Motions declared adopted/approved unanimously, signed by the
Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
EXTENSION OF TEMPORARY RENTAL OF METERED STALLS ADJACENT TO 119
STANTON AVENUE FOR FIRST NATIONAL BANK: Council Member Gartin indicated that he
had pulled this item from the Consent Agenda in order to provide more background. He clarified
that what was before the Council at this time was an extension of the agreement only through the
end of June. The additional time will allow the Campustown Action Association (CAA) to have a
greater level of conversation. Mr. Gartin said he had contacted First National Bank to get its
perspective as to how the arrangement was working and encouraged the Bank representative to be
especially cognizant of the relationship with Jeff’s Pizza because that was the business most directly
affected by this. According to Mr. Gartin, he received assurances that they had been having regular
communication with Jeff’s Pizza and surrounding businesses, and things appeared to be going well.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 14-298 approving an
extension of temporary rental of metered stalls adjacent to 119 Stanton Avenue for First National
Bank.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
MAIN STREET COUNTRY NIGHT EVENT: Council Member Goodman acknowledged that the
City Council had received an e-mail today from the Station and General Sales Manager of 1430
KASI/105.1 expressing concern that the MSCD was bringing in an outside radio station and other
outside vendors for this event. Mr. Goodman asked if the City had any policies regarding under
what circumstances parking meter waivers were recommended for outside vendors. Management
Analyst Brian Phillips replied that the City does not have any policies on that topic; however, the
Council has the option of not waiving the fees. Council Member Goodman explained that an Ames
entity that was a member of the MSCD was not asked to provide services for this event. City
Manager Steve Schainker noted that this event was being viewed as a Main Street Cultural District
event. Mr. Phillips said that some weight is given to whether the event promotes the interest and
goals of the District.
Council Member Betcher asked if the City has any contract that specifies the relationship between
the City and Downtown vendors. City Manager Schainker answered that the City does have an
annual contract with the MSCD to contribute funds to its operating budget; however, no distinction
is made about non-Ames entities participating in events.
Scott Griffen, 1614 Pierce Circle, Ames, owner of Olde Main Brewery on Main Street, addressed
the closure of Main Street. He pointed out that the City has a bandshell that he believes is
underutilized. Mr. Griffen questioned why Main Street needed to be closed to accommodate this
event when it is only a couple blocks from a bandshell.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Nelson, to approve the following requests from Main Street
Cultural District (MSCD) for Main Street Country Night on Thursday, July 17:
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a.Motion approving 5-Day Class B Beer Permit & Outdoor Service, subject to the MSCD
obtaining dram shop insurance and hiring two Police Department officers
b.RESOLUTION NO. 14-304 approving closure of 200 block of Main Street from 12:00 p.m. on
Thursday, July 17, to 2:00 a.m. on Friday, July 18, and waiver of parking meter fees and
enforcement on 200 block
c.RESOLUTION NO. 14-305 approving usage of electricity and waiver of costs
Roll Call Vote: 4-1. Voting aye: Betcher, Corrieri, Gartin, Nelson. Voting nay: Goodman.
Resolutions/Motions declared adopted/carried, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of
these Minutes.
PUBLIC FORUM: Scott Griffen, 1614 Pierce Circle, Ames, referenced the e-mail sent to the Mayor
and City Council from Carol Kisling, Manager of an Ames radio station. Mr. Griffen stated that he
is a proponent of events in Downtown Ames; however, would like the MSCD Director to answer
whether the local radio station could have matched the outside station’s offer. He strongly believes
that members of the MSCD should, at the very least, be asked first to provide their services for
events sponsored by the District.
Mr. Griffen also noted that the City Council had earmarked $7,000 for Sesquicentennial activities.
He noted that, on February 11, 2014, the Council had allocated $39,000 to the MSCD - $32,000 was
for its operations and $7,000 was earmarked for Sesquicentennial activities. However, Mr. Griffen
has learned that $6,000 of that money had been spent on the parade. He is concerned that the monies
were not being used as intended by the City Council. At the inquiry of Mayor Campbell, Mr. Griffen
indicated that he had talked to MSCD Board members and Dan Culhane, Director of the Ames
Chamber of Commerce, about his concern.
No one else came forward to speak, and Mayor Campbell closed Public Forum.
OUTDOOR SERVICE PRIVILEGE FOR CHARLIE YOKE’S: Lieutenant Brinkley recalled that
this item initially came before the City Council on April 8, 2014; at which time, the Police
Department‘s position was that the fencing around the patio was inadequate. Since then, Lieutenant
Brinkley met with bar owner Jason Crimmins, relaying the Police Department’s expectations and
requirements to ensure that underage persons did not have access to the patio. The proposed outdoor
service area now meets the Police Department’s requirements.
Lieutenant Brinkley also reported that there had been no additional liquor license violations at the
establishment in question since April 8.
Council Member Betcher asked to know the connection between the Outdoor Service Privilege and
the 6-Month Liquor License previously approved by the Council for this establishment. Lieutenant
Brinkley answered this the Outdoor Service would be added to the 6-Month License; it is all one
license.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Nelson, to approve an Outdoor Service Privilege for Charlie Yoke’s,
2518 Lincoln Way, contingent upon completion of the gate on the south side of the patio.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried.
ENTRANCE SIGNS IN MULTI-FAMILY DEVELOPMENTS: Building Official Seana Perkins
provided a chronological background from January 23, 2014, to the present on the request of Copper
Beech of Ames II, LLC, to place an 18.8 square foot monument sign on South 16 Street near theth
entrance to the property. The City Council had referred to staff a letter from Fernsler Hutchison
Architecture (representing Copper Beech townhomes) on March 18, 2014.
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According to Ms. Perkins, Municipal Code Section 21.121 regulates the type of sign that can be
erected by zone, rather than by use. Leaving the Code as it is currently written would not resolve the
signage needs of multiple-family developments. As it currently exists, residential developments
would have to subdivide to be allowed to erect an entrance sign.
Ms. Perkins reported that entrance signs for multi-family developments that clearly state the name
of the development are typical in most communities. Staff suggested that any new signage
requirements be similar to the standards for subdivision entrance signs.
Council Member Gartin asked how small of a development could the new language pertain to;
specifically, could it be a single multi-family building or would it need to be something larger.
Building Official Perkins said that was unknown at this time; however, she felt that staff could craft
language that could reflect the Council’s wants. It would be based on use, rather than in what
Zoning District the building(s) was located. The Mayor noted that the Council would not want a
proliferation of signs for every apartment building/duplex. City Manager Schainker added that the
Council could ask staff to come up with a recommendation to limit that.
Council Member Goodman said that he had observed large banner-type signs affixed to high-density
buildings and asked if those were allowed in the Sign Code. Ms. Perkins said that temporary
portable signs are allowed. A banner sign may be up to 100 square feet and remain on the building
for up to 90 days. Permits are required, which allow staff to track the time frame and size for
temporary signs.
After being asked by Council Member Betcher, Ms. Perkins advised that, since she has been the
Building Official, no variances had been approved for entrance signs for multiple-family
developments. The Building Board of Appeals had not processed any applications.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Gartin, to direct the City Attorney to draft an appropriate
amendment to the Municipal Code that would allow entrance signs for multiple-family
developments in compliance with the existing standards for subdivision entrance signs reflected in
Section 21.121(10); and allow staff to create a scale caveat if it is felt appropriate.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON FINAL AMENDMENTS TO FISCAL YEAR 2013/14: Mayor Campbell opened the
public hearing. No one came forward to speak, and the hearing was closed.
Finance Director Duane Pitcher and Budget Officer Nancy Masteller presented the main
amendments to the FY 2013/14 Budget.
Mr. Pitcher explained that staff will begin a new process because of the really large projects
occurring. The first budget review that includes only carry-overs will be seen by the City Council
in September.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 14-323 amending the
current budget for Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2014.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON TEXT AMENDMENTS TO ARTICLE 2, ARTICLE 4, AND ARTICLE 13 OF
THE ZONING CODE TO ESTABLISH USE AND HEIGHT RESTRICTIONS FOR LAND
WITHIN THE FAA AIRPORT IMAGINARY SURFACES AIRSPACE ZONES: The public
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hearing was opened by the Mayor. It was closed after no one asked to speak.
Moved by Nelson, seconded by Corrieri, to pass on first reading an ordinance revising Article 2,
Article 4, and Article 13 of the Zoning Code in order to establish obstruction restrictions for land
within the FAA Airport Imaginary Surfaces Airspace Zones.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
CONVERSION OF ELECTRIC PLANT TO NATURAL GAS: Assistant Electric Services Director
Brian Trower advised that, based on the averaged weighted scores and a unanimous decision by the
evaluation committee of the final proposals, it was recommended that a contract be awarded to
Sargent & Lundy, LLC, of Chicago, Illinois, in an amount not-to-exceed $1,995,000.
At the inquiry of Council Member Goodman, Mr. Trower advised that the City is preserving the
option to return to coal due to a “quirk in the Code.” The City will do its best to preserve the
equipment so that it does not rust in place; however, it is not the City’s intent to return to burning
coal. In response to Council Member Gartin’s question, Mr. Trower stated that if the City were to
return to burning coal, there would be a host of very expensive air-pollution-control equipment that
would have to be added to the Plant.
Mr. Gartin asked why the firm that had submitted the lowest bid was not being recommended. Mr.
Trower explained that the firm with the lowest proposal did not have the expertise to do the
transition for a plant the size of Ames’s. He elaborated that Sargent & Lundy had been involved in
converting 25 units. The firm with the lowest proposal is currently involved with converting its first
unit.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION ON. 14-324 awarding an
Engineering Services Contract to Sargent & Lundy, LLC, of Chicago, Illinois, in an amount not to
exceed $1,995,000 for converting the City of Ames Steam Electric Plant from coal to natural gas.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC SIGNAL AT 13 STREET/KELLOGG AVENUE: TransportationTH
Engineer Damion Pregitzer advised that Phase 2 of Mary Greeley Medical Center’s expansion
project will involve the reconstruction of the main east-west drive within its site at 11 Street andth
the relocation of the main entrance used for patients. It was noted that, while under construction,
traffic will be able to enter the hospital campus only off of Duff Avenue and to exit the campus only
on Kellogg Avenue.
Mr. Pregitzer stated that it was important to note that meetings with neighborhoods directly affected
by the change in traffic patterns were held. The residents’ major concerns with routing traffic onto
Kellogg Avenue would be with allowing those vehicles to cut-through the neighborhood to the west
and to the south. They were also concerned with the material staging and parking issues associated
with construction along the west side of the hospital campus.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 14-325 approving a
temporary traffic signal at 13 Street/Kellogg Avenue for Phase 2 of Mary Greeley Medical Centerth
expansion.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
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STORM WATER EASEMENT AT 1515 INDIANA AVENUE: Eric Cowles, Municipal Engineer,
provided a summary of the request by the owners of 1515 Indiana Avenue for the storm water
retention easement to be vacated. Mr. Cowles advised that staff feels that there may be an
opportunity to vacate the easement and release the building restriction based on topography and past
history. However, in order to move forward, staff believes that a drainage analysis should be
conducted by a third-party professional engineer at the property owner’s or Homeowner
Association’s expense.
Council Member Goodman questioned whether Mr. Cowles believed that the analysis would be
decisive or more vague. He cited his concern about asking the home owner to spend funds if the
answer might come back in the “gray area.” Mr. Cowles responded that that risk would exist. He
acknowledged that there have not been any issues to date.
City Manager Schainker cautioned the Council, stating that if there would be a problem after the
easement is vacated, residents would look to the City to fix it.
Mr. Cowles advised that the home owner would hire a consultant. Staff would come back to Council
with the results of the analysis and then ask for direction on what should be done.
Moved by Nelson, seconded by Corrieri, to approve Option 1, which is: Upon completion of an
engineering analysis, should Council give direction to vacate easement areas, staff would begin the
vacation process, which would include, but is not limited to, a modification to the current restrictive
covenants and a new survey(s) to define the exact limits of the area(s) to be vacated. All fees
(engineering analysis, survey, advertisement, and recording) for this work would be the
responsibility of the property owner or the Homeowner Association, and not be a cost to the City.
The Homeowners Association would also need to modify its restrictive covenants to allow for the
construction of a porch in the easement area.
Council Member Gartin noted that the Council would be setting an important precedent in this case.
He stated that when people purchase property, they should do due diligence to ensure they
understand the easements that affect their property. It is his hope that a great deal of thought goes
into easements before they are initially put in place. Mr. Gartin also cautioned that the City Council
has to consider that the action they take on this issue will affect many other property owners and
future developments in the area.
Mr. Cowles advised that the property in question is located on the upstream side, which is the reason
that staff believes there is an opportunity to vacate the easement.
Council Member Goodman pointed out that vacating the easement changes the situation for others.
It is unknown whether other similar requests from the area in question will come before the Council,
and if so, would Council be able to allow others to vacate as well. Mr. Cowles advised that the
analysis should indicate if and where the easement could be vacated. Mr. Goodman also expressed
his concern about requiring the homeowner to pay for the analysis. He believed that, to protect the
long-term interests of the City, the City should contract and pay for the analysis to be performed.
City Manager Schainker stated that the City could hire the professional to perform the analysis, with
the costs of the analysis being borne by the owner or homeowner association.
Moved by Nelson, seconded by Goodman, to amend the motion to state that the City will contract
for the analysis and the property owner at 1515 Indiana Avenue will reimburse the City for the cost
of the analysis.
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Vote on Motion to Amend: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Vote on Motion, as Amended: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
John Larson, 1515 Indiana Avenue, Ames, commented that he would like an opportunity for a
professional to provide an opinion that the way that the porch addition onto his home is designed
will improve drainage by providing better retention. Analysis of the entire easement would then not
be needed, and the cost of the analysis would not be as great. According to Mr. Larson, there is also
currently existing a 10' x 18' patio that has no retention.
Council Member Gartin said that it would be difficult for the City to address only the Larson’s storm
water easement and leave the others unattended. Mr. Larson agreed, but would like the opportunity
for a professional to say that there would be better retention for the whole neighborhood if the porch
addition were built on his property. Mr. Larson also advised that the Neighborhood Association has
approved the vacating of the easement and the construction of the porch on his property with the
condition that the City approves it.
Mr. Larson noted that he disagreed with Option 1 due to the potential cost to him or the
homeowners’ association.. Mr. Cowles stated that the City would report the proposed cost of the
analysis to the Larsons and the homeowners’ association prior to a contract being entered into to
perform the work.
SIDEWALK CAFES: Assistant City Manager Melissa Mundt recalled that the Campustown Action
Association (CAA) had asked, in Summer 2012, for clarifications pertaining to regulations for
sidewalk cafes. Staff then presented a series of questions to the City Council in late 2012 to help
guide the re-write of the vending and sidewalk café portion of the Municipal Code. According to
City Manager Schainker, the Council will not be asked for direction on this issue until early summer.
Ms. Mundt advised that existing sidewalks in both Campustown and Downtown are generally not
wide enough for sidewalk cafes. Options presented by staff were offset sidewalk cafes and parklets
for dining and public space. According to Ms. Mundt, the City of Cedar Rapids now actively
promotes the use of parklets in its downtown next to restaurants and has done so for at least two
years.
Assistant City Manager Mundt said that direction from the City Council is also needed on the
following issues:
1.What requirements should exist to delineate the sidewalk café from the pedestrian space
2.How should conflicts regarding vending carts and sidewalk cafes be addressed
3.Should alcohol serve be permitted at sidewalk cafes
4.How is the proposed facilitation of bicycle movement in the Campustown Business District
compatible with or in opposition with the placement of sidewalk cafes
Council Member Gartin asked to know if the restaurant owners were in favor of allowing outdoor
cafes. Kim Hanna, Director of the CAA, 200 Stanton, Ames, told the Council that, in talking with
several restaurant owners along Lincoln Way, the idea of outdoor cafes is very appealing to them.
The CAA believes that sidewalk cafes add to the energy and excitement in the District. It is part of
the CAA’s mission to make Campustown appealing to all ages and actually seeing people acting
responsibly with alcohol in public would be good for the restaurant owners and the District.
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Terry Stark, President of the Main Street Cultural District and owner of Chocolaterie Stam, advised
that tourism experts say that outdoor dining draws customers. Mr. Stark said that the MSCD
endorses outdoor cafes. He stated that people would be able to find parking.
Council Member Gartin said he would be open to revisiting the City’s policy regarding alcohol on
sidewalks if data were obtained from Iowa City and other communities that currently allow it.
Allen Bell, 138 Main Street, Ames, suggested that the City consider using alleys, rooftops, or
extensions over the sidewalks for outdoor cafes.
Mr. Bell asked to bring a somewhat related item to the Council. He stated that he lives on Main
Street, and there is a vendor at Main Street and Douglas Avenue who operates from 10 PM to 3 AM
on Friday and Saturday nights. Mr. Bell said he felt it was desirable to have people live in the
Downtown District. According to Mr. Bell, the noise associated with that vending operation prevents
him from sleeping. Mr. Bell also noted that crowd control is a real problem. The people exiting the
bars are very loud, some are intoxicated, and there have been fist-fights. According to Mr. Bell,
some of the operations of the vending cart are unsafe, e.g., placement of propane tanks. Mr. Bell
noted that he was not objecting to the vendor himself, but to the placement of the vendor’s car. He
asked the City to consider moving the vendor to the end of Main Street on Duff Avenue.
BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN SAFETY IN CAMPUSTOWN: Management Analyst Phillips
provided the history of this issue. He noted that the 2017/18 Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) has
$1,500,000 to replace utility infrastructure and reconstruct the 100 block of Welch Avenue. During
that process, the City must decide what the streetscape elements will look like when the project is
complete. It is possible to return the existing features (bump-outs with light poles, street trees) or
to replace those features with new streetscaping, such as planters, seating areas, or wider sidewalks.
According to Mr. Phillips, until that process occurs, now is a critical opportunity to test any projects
the City Council might be interested in. Specific details regarding implementation would be returned
to the City Council for final approval. There would be time to review the options with officials from
Iowa State University.
After reviewing the Task Force projects in relationship to ongoing and proposed projects in
Campustown, City staff made the following recommendations:
1.Proceed with the non-infrastructure and minor infrastructure projects.
2.Do not proceed with the project to modify Parking Lot X.
3.Develop a project to temporarily place a bike lane in the parking lane along the south side of
Lincoln Way from Hayward Avenue to Lynn Avenue. It was noted that this project would be
reversible if the sense of the community was that retaining the parking spaces is a greater
priority.
Mr. Phillips stated that the Kingland project has caused the sidewalk along one block of Lincoln
Way to be placed in the parking lane. Staff proposed that, as the Kingland project continues and
the Lincoln Way sidewalk reopens to pedestrian use, the parking lane should remain closed to
accommodate a bike lane. The parking along the adjacent west and east blocks would also be
closed to accommodate a bike lane.
Transportation Engineer Pregitzer offered example options to create a temporary three-block
bike lane on Lincoln Way, as follows:
a.Striping - estimated cost of $1,000
b.Tubular Barrier - estimated cost of $11,000
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c.Jersey Barrier - estimated cost of $20,600
d.Planters - estimated cost of $50,850
4.Develop a project to temporarily close parking along the east side of the 100 and 200 blocks of
Welch Avenue in order to widen the sidewalks and install a bike lane in those spaces. Staff
estimated that striping the 200 block of Welch for a bike lane would cost less than $500, while
installing planters and ramps on the 100 block of Welch Avenue would cost up to $10,000. The
planters could be re-used on other projects in the future. If the Council felt strongly, this project
could be duplicated on the west side of Welch Avenue; however, the priority for bike safety
would be the east side of the street.
Mr. Phillips informed the City Council that the CAA has indicated that parking along Lincoln Way
is not compatible with different uses and encourages the City to remove the parking to accommodate
bike safety, wider sidewalks, and sidewalk cafes. Also, the CAA has indicated that the on-street
parking should be preserved every where possible on Welch Avenue. It does not support the concept
of a parking closure on Welch Avenue.
Ex officio Member Lissandra Villa indicated that, from discussions she had had with students, they
did not mind trading parking for a bike lane.
Carol Williams, 628 - 8 Street, Ames, identified herself as a member of the Ames Bike Coalition,th
but said she would be providing her personal opinion. Firstly, she asked what happened to the
sharrows and the bike path on Chamberlain. Mr. Phillips said staff needed more time to evaluate
whether those more permanent recommendations, such as sharrows and bike paths, were the best
solutions. In the meantime, staff was suggesting temporary solutions to be tried.
Ms. Williams stated her desire that Ames hire a Bicycle-Pedestrian Coordinator, a position that
could be shared with ISU.
Trevan Ward, 316 -11 Street, said he was a member of the Task Force and a member of the Amesth
Bike Coalition. He expressed his appreciation of the process and said he found it extraordinarily
fruitful. Mr. Ward said that Ames has some excellent spaces for cycling, but has some “holes.” Mr.
Ward showed a map showing bicycling traffic in Ames. It showed that Campustown and South Duff
were the least-traveled. He encouraged the City to create several small task forces to address certain
aspects of the bicycle path system.
Donna Ziminski, co-owner of Leedz Salon, 2536 Lincoln Way, Ames, advised that parking close
to their business is crucial to their business. Ms. Ziminski presented a petition signed by whom she
claimed was every property owner in the 2500 block of Lincoln Way objecting to removing any
parking from Lincoln Way and/or Welch.
Director of CAA Kim Hanna noted a goal of the Association to increase the strength of all modes
of transportation to and through Campustown. The CAA wants to save parking wherever possible
except on Lincoln Way. Ms. Hanna shared input provided by CAA members.
Ann Taylor, owner of Dogtown University, 217 Welch Avenue, and current President of the CAA,
shared some of the conversations that she had had with property owners in Campustown. She noted
that the discussions about bicycle and pedestrian safety started two years ago.
Council Member Gartin said it was necessary to balance community interests with those of the
property owners who are directly affected. He believes that the item should be tabled for a short time
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as there appears to be a lack of communication with the directly impacted property owners along
Lincoln Way.
Council Member Betcher said it is impossible to have biking, parking, and outdoor cafes. It is
difficult for the City Council members to prioritize those three components.
At the inquiry of Council Member Goodman, Transportation Engineer Pregitzer said that to cut
down on the number of lanes on a street affects more than just bicyclists.
Council Member Corrieri asked what staff would do differently if this item were tabled. Mr.
Pregitzer said staff would try different ways to get more engagement from the affected property
owners.
Moved by Gartin to table this item.
Motion withdrawn.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Corrieri, to install wayfinding signage, develop an education
campaign for ISU students and the public on rights/responsibilities of roadway users, adjust parking
fees, coordinate bike parking, and coordinate continuity of routes with ISU.
It was noted that, with that motion, it was expected that staff would return to the City Council for
direction during the CIP process to prioritize the installation of bike detection equipment at two
additional Campustown intersections.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Goodman, to direct City staff to work with CAA to reach out to the
affected property owners on Lincoln Way and Welch and return to Council with that information,
such discussions to include members of the Task Force.
Vote on Motion: 4-1. Voting aye: Betcher, Gartin, Goodman, Nelson. Voting nay: Corrieri. Motion
declared carried.
The meeting recessed at 9:24 p.m. and reconvened at 9:31 p.m.
CAMERAS IN CAMPUSTOWN: Police Chief Chuck Cychosz recalled that security cameras in
Campustown were discussed with the City Council in July 2011 and June 2012. The Council
indicated its support for improving lighting in Campustown, but did not support pursuing a camera
installation project. Chief Cychosz noted that lighting improvements in Campustown had been done
by Electric Services staff.
According to Chief Cychosz, from a crime-reduction standpoint, a camera installation may have two
potential benefits: (1) a deterrent effect and (2) the role they play in investigating crimes. Helping
to locate lost children or missing persons were listed as non-crime benefits.
Chief Cychosz told the Council that costs for camera installation vary depending on the definition
of the video and the transfer rate of the data. For cameras to be most useful in investigating crimes
after-the-fact, both high-definition cameras and high-speed fiber optic networking are required.
Cameras are estimated to cost between $1,000 and $3,500 each. Network and storage costs total an
additional $10,000 to $15,000.
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Management Analyst Phillips brought the Council’s attention to the privacy and philosophical
considerations listed in the Council Action Form.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, for the City to move forward to study available technologies
that could be utilized in the Campustown area and to bring a proposal for a specific camera project
back to the City Council (this would include the number of cameras, policies for their use, updated
cost estimates, and possible sources of funding).
Council Member Goodman said he would not support the motion because he finds it strange that
government would start recording every motion of legal activities. He said he would like more
specific information verifying that there is appreciative value to safety from cameras.
Vote on Motion: 4-1. Voting aye:
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Corrieri, that the staff report includes data on the deterrent effect
from cameras.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
3699 GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER (SCENIC VALLEY SUBDIVISION): Moved by
Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 14-326 approving the Rezoning
Agreement for 3699 George Washington Carver (Scenic Valley Subdivision).
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
ORDINANCE MODIFYING MUNICIPAL CODE REFERENCE IN SIGN CODE: Moved by
Goodman, seconded by Betcher, to pass on second reading an ordinance modifying Ames Municipal
Code Section 21.114(3) providing the electronic message sign standards.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously
ORDINANCE REZONING WITH MASTER PLAN FOR 3699 GEORGE WASHINGTON
CARVER AVENUE: Moved by Goodman, seconded by Betcher, to pass on third reading and adopt
ORDINANCE NO. 4183 rezoning with Master Plan property located at 3699 George Washington
Carver Avenue from Agricultural (A) to Suburban Low-Density Residential (FS-RL).
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Ordinance declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
ORDINANCE INCREASING SEWER RATES: Moved by Goodman, seconded by Corrieri, to pass
on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO. 4184 increasing sewer rates by 8% effective July 1,
2014.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Ordinance declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Moved by Betcher, seconded by Gartin, to request a response from the
MSCD regarding how the $7,000 allocation from the City designated for Sesquicentennial activities is
being or has been used.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Gartin, to refer to staff for a memo the letter from Allen Bell
pertaining to a Main Street vendor.
Vote on Motion: 4-0-1. Voting aye: Betcher, Corrieri, Gartin, Nelson. Voting nay: None.
Abstaining due to a conflict of interest: Goodman. Motion declared carried.
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Moved by Gartin, seconded by Goodman, to refer the letter from Justin Gersema dated May 20,
2014, requesting installation of pedestrian crosswalk lights at the corner of 14 Street and Duffth
Avenue for a written report back to Council and to Mr. Gersema.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
CLOSED SESSION: Council Member Gartin asked City Attorney Parks if there was a legal reason
to go into Closed Session. Ms. Parks replied in the affirmative.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to hold a Closed Session as provided by Section 21.5c,
Code of Iowa, to discuss matters in litigation.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The meeting reconvened in Regular Session at 11:53 p.m.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by to adjourn the meeting at 11:54 p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk Ann H. Campbell, Mayor