HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - Meeting of the Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (AAMPO) Transportation Policy Committee 08/13/2013
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE AMES AREA
METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION POLICY COMMITTEE
AND REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
COUNCIL CHAMBERS - CITY HALL
AMES, IOWA AUGUST 13, 2013
MEETING OF THE AMES AREA METROPOLITAN
PLANNING ORGANIZATION TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE
The Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (AAMPO) Transportation Policy Committee met
at 7:00 p.m. on the 13th day of August, 2013, in the City Council Chambers in City Hall, 515 Clark
Avenue, pursuant to law with the following voting members present: Ann Campbell, Wayne Clinton,
Jeremy Davis, Matthew Goodman, Jami Larson, Peter Orazem, Victoria Szopinski, and Tom Wacha.
City of Ames Transportation Planner Rudy Koester and Public Works Director John Joiner were also
present. Voting Members Chet Hollingshead, Boone County Supervisor; Jonathan Popp, Gilbert City
Council representative; and Dan Rediske, Transit Board representative, were absent.
PROPOSED FISCAL YEAR (FY) 2014 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
(TIP) AMENDMENT: Public Works Director John Joiner explained that the proposed amendment
involves adding three projects to the Fiscal Year 2014 TIP that were incorrectly programmed in
the Central Iowa Regional Transportation and Planning Alliance (CIRTPA) FY 2014 TIP. Due to
the recent change to the AAMPO’s Metropolitan Planning Area (MPA) boundary, which reflects
the results of the 2010 Census, the project sponsors were unaware that the projects were now
within the AAMPO’s MPA boundary. The three projects were named by Transportation Planner
Rudy Koester as:
1.North Dakota Avenue over Onion Creek - Bridge Replacement (sponsored by Story County
Secondary Roads Department)
2.I-35/U.S. 30 Interchange in Ames - New Bridge Construction, Grading, Right-of-Way
(sponsored by Iowa Department of Transportation District 1)
3.Gilbert to Ames Trail - Trail and Bike Lanes Along Grant Avenue Between 190th Street and
Gilbert City Limits (sponsored by Story County Conservation Board)
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Clinton, to approve the proposed FY 2014-17 TIP Amendment,
as described above, and set the date of public hearing for September 10, 2013.
Vote on Motion: 8-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Davis to adjourn the AAMPO Transportation Policy Committee
meeting at 7:04 p.m.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Mayor Ann Campbell called the Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council to order at 7:05 p.m. with
Jeremy Davis, Ma tthew Good man, Jami Lar son, Peter Orazem, Victoria Szopinski, and Tom Wacha
present. Ex officio Member Alexandria Harvey was also present.
It was announced by Mayor Campbell that Item No. 29 pertaining to an Encroachment Permit for 400
Main Street had been pulled by the applicant. She also advised that Agenda Item No. 34 (pertaining
to Xenia Rural Water) would follow Item No. 37 (a request to change to the LUPP for property on S.
16th Street).
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PRESENTATION OF PLATINUM PEAK PERFORMANCE AWARD: Mayor Campbell
presented the Platinum Peak Pe rformance A ward to th e Water Pol lution Co ntrol fac ility fr om the
National Association of Clean Water Agencies. Water and Pollution Control Director John Dunn
explained that the Award recognizes more than 27,000 individual permit limits that have been met
without a violation for over 23 years. It extends back to t he date when the facility came on line in
November 1989. Mr. Dunn noted that the Award is indicative of the skills and expertise of the engineer
who designed the facility, to the support of the City Mana ger and City Council over the life of the
facility, but most of all, to the front-line operators and the maintenance staff at the facility who, for 23
consecutive years, have demonstrated such a high level of excellence. Receiving the Award on behalf
of the Water Pollution Control facility was Randy Pohl, Plant Operator. Mr. Pohl has been at the
current facility for the entire 23 years of compliance.
CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Wacha asked to pull Item No. 10, preliminary plans and
specifications for the CDBG Public Facilities Neighborhood Infrastructure Program, for separate
discussion.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Wacha, to approve the following items on the Consent Agenda:
1.Motion ap proving p ayment of cl aims
2.Motion approving Minutes of Special Meetings of July 16, 2013, and August 6, 2013, and
Regular Meeting of July 23, 2013
3.Motion approving certification of civil service applicants
4.Motion approving Report of Contract Change Orders for July 16 - 31, 2013
5.Motion approving renewal of the following beer permits, wine permits, and liquor licenses:
a.Class C Liquor – Es Tas Stanton, 216 Stanton Avenue
b.Class C Liquor – El Azteca, 1520 South Dayton Avenue
c.Class C Liquor – Okoboji Grill, 118 South Duff Avenue
d.Class C Beer & B Wine – Hy-Vee Gas #5013, 4018 Lincoln Way
e.Class C Liquor – Deano’s, 119 Main Street
f.Class B Beer – Flame-N-Skewer, 2801 Grand Avenue
g.Class C Liquor & Outdoor Service Privilege – SMG Food & Beverage, CY Stephens
Auditorium
h.Class C Liquor & Outdoor Service Privilege – SMG Food & Beverage, Scheman Building
i.Special Class C Liquor – SMG Food & Beverage, Fisher Theater
6.RESOLUTION NO. 13-357 approving renewal of lease for Information Technology office space
at 428-5th Street
7.RESOLUTION NO. 13-358 approving Addendum to Lease Agreement with Iowa State
University for Veenker Golf Course Maintenance Building in Moore Memorial Park
8.RESOLUTION NO. 13-359 approving Neighborhood Improvement Program grant to
Bloomington Heights Townhome Neighborhood Association (Pond Landscaping) and South
Ridgewood Neighborhood Association (Lee Street Painting Project)
9.RESOLUTION NO. 13-361 approving preliminary plans and specifications for Water Pollution
Control Trickling Filter Check Valve Replacement; setting September 4, 2013, as bid due date
and September 10, 2013, as date of public hearing
10.RESOLUTION NO. 13-362 approving preliminary plans and specifications for Ames Plant
Substation Improvements; setting September 11, 2013, as bid due date and September 24, 2013,
as date of public hearing
11.RESOLUTION NO. 13-363 approving preliminary plans and specifications for Electric Control
Panels; setting August 28, 2013, as bid due date and September 10, 2013, as date of public
hearing
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12.RESOLUTION NO. 13-364 approving preliminary plans and specifications for 2013/14 Water
System Improvements - Water Main Replacement (Sheldon Avenue); setting September 11, 2013,
as bid due date and September 24, 2013 as date of public hearing
13.RESOLUTION NO. 13-365 approving preliminary plans and specifications for Asphalt/Seal Coat
Street Rehabilitation and 2013/14 Water System Improvements - Water Main Replacement (Tripp
Street, South Franklin Avenue, Village Drive); setting September 11, 2013, as bid due date and
September 24, 2013, as date of public hearing
14.2013 Softball Field Fencing and Lighting for South River Valley Park:
a.RESOLUTION NO. 13-366 awarding contract to Des Moines Steel of Des Moines, Iowa, for
Fencing in the amount of $51,660
b.RESOLUTION NO. 13-367 awarding contract to VanMaanen Electric, Inc., of Newton, Iowa,
for Lighting in the amount of $172,800
15.RESOLUTION NO. 13-368 awarding contract to WESCO Distribution of Des Moines, Iowa, for
purchase of Electric Cable and Wire in the amount of $103,790
16.RESOLUTION NO. 13-369 awarding contract to Mid-Iowa Solid Waste Equipment Company
of Johnston, Iowa, for upgrade to Pipe Inspection Video System in the amount of $78,996
17.RESOLUTION NO. 13-370 approving contract and bond for 2012/13 Water System
Improvements - Water Main Replacement No. 3 (Center Avenue)
18.RESOLUTION NO. 13-371 approving contract and bond for Furnishing of SF6 Circuit Breakers
19.RESOLUTION NO. 13-372 approving contract and bond for Substation Electrical Materials–Bid
No. 2 (Instrument Transformers)
20.RESOLUTION NO. 13-373 approving contract and bond for Substation Electrical Materials–Bid
No. 3 (Lightning Arresters)
21.RESOLUTION NO. 13-374 approving contract and bond for Power Plant Maintenance Services
22.RESOLUTION NO. 13-375 accepting completion of FY 2012/13 Power Plant Boiler
Maintenance and Repair Services
23.RESOLUTION NO. 13-376 accepting completion of 2013/14 Water Pollution Control Biosolids
Operations Contract
24.RESOLUTION NO. 13-377 approving Plat of Survey for 921-9th Street (former Roosevelt School
building)
25.RESOLUTION NO. 13-378 approving Final Plat for Somerset Subdivision, 25th Addition
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolutions/Motions declared adopted/carried unanimously, signed by the
Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
2013/14 CDBG PUBLIC FACILITIES NEIGHBORHOOD INFRASTRUCTURE
IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM (SOUTH MAPLE AVENUE): Council Member Wacha explained
that he had received a phone call from one of the residents of the neighborhood who questioned
why the City is installing such a wide sidewalk by O’Neil Park. There is currently no sidewalk
at that location, and the caller was concerned about the addit ional impervious surface contributing
to the flooding problems, which they had experienced in the past. Public Works Director Joiner
reported that new sidewalk would be installed on the east side of South Maple along O’Neil Park.
He explained the reasons for the sidewalk installation: (1) The City re ceived a request to make
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accommodation from a mobility-impaired resident who
desires to access the Park. (2) The infill sidewalk is a requirement of the CDBG Program, which
is partially funding this project. The sidewalk needs to be located closer to the curb to avoid the
numerous trees along the right-of-way. Also, a two-foot safety distance between the edge of the
sidewalk and the back of the curb is required. Instead of having a two-foot strip of grass that
would be very difficult to maintain, a six-foot-wide sidewalk will be installed that will be adjacent
to the back of the curb and much easier to maintain.
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In relation to the stormwater, Director Joiner reported that the City is upsizing the storm sewer
in the area, so any additional runoff, which will be slight, will be readi ly handled.
Moved by Wacha, seconded by Goodman, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 13-360 approving
preliminary plans and specifications for the 2013/14 CDBG Public Facilities Neighborhood
Infrastructure Improvements Program (South Maple Avenue); setting August 21, 2013, as bid due
date and August 27, 2013, as date of public hearing.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
PUBLIC FORUM: Ryan Allen, 818 Carroll Avenue, Ames, Iowa, thanked the Council members for
their service. He stated that he had been an Ames resident for ten years and had seen a lot of
growth, which he thought was good for the community. Mr. Allen identified himself as a small-
scale landlor d and as a me mber of the A mes Rental Association (ARA). He brought the
Council’s attention to a letter that had been sent by the ARA and requested that the Council direct
staff to review Chapter 13 and update the sections that need to be; e.g., referencing the correct
versions of the International Codes that have been adopted and putting information in the correct
sections.
No one else request ed to spea k, and the Mayor cl osed Publ ic Forum.
ENCROACHMENT PERMIT FOR FLAG POLES AND FLAGS AT MISS MEYER’S
CLOTHING CONSIGNMENT, 432 5TH STREET: Moved by Go odman, seconded by Davis, to
approve an Encroachment Permit for flag poles and flags at Miss Meyer’s Clothing Consignment,
432 - 5th Street.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
ENCROACHMENT PERMIT FOR 400 MAIN STREET: This item had been pulled by the
applicant.
CLASS C LIQUOR AND B NATIVE WINE PERMIT FOR THE MUCKY DUCK PUB: Moved
by Davis, seconded by Goodman, to approve a Class C Liquor and B Native Wine Permit for The
Mucky Duck Pub, 3100 South Duff Avenue.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
5-DAY LICENSES FOR OLDE MAIN BREWING COMPANY: Moved by Davis, seconded by
Larson, to approve the following 5-Day Licenses for Olde Main Brewing Company:
a.Class C Liquor (August 24-29) at CPMI Event Center, 2321 North Loop Drive
b.Special Class C Liquor (August 31-September 4) at ISU Alumni Center, 420 Beach Avenue
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
MUSIC WALK ON SEPTEMBER 12, 2013: Cari Hague, Executive Director of Main Street Cultural
District (MSCD), and Terry Stark, President of the MSCD, were present. Ms. Hague advised that the
event would be much the same as it had been in past years with the exception of the addition of a beer
garden in the 100 block of Main Street.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Szopinski, to approve the following:
a.Outdoor Service Area for Corner Pocket/DG’s Taphouse for 100 block of Main Street
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b.Blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit and Blanket Vending License for MSCD from 3:00
p.m. to 10:0 0 p.m.
c.RESOLUTION NO. 13-379 approving waiver of fees for electricity usage, waiver of parking
meter fees in the MSCD from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., use of six parking spaces along Main Street
for food vendors, closure of 100 block of Main Street, and waiver of the fee for Blanket
Vending License.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution/Motions declared adopted/carried unanimously, signed by the
Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
ALL-AMERICAN WEEKEND CAR SHOW ON AUGUST 31, 2013: Moved by Davis, seconded
by Wacha, to approve a Blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit and Blanket Vending License.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Wacha, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 13-380 approving closure
of portions of Main Street and Kellogg Avenue from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; waiver of fee for
electricity costs; waiver of parking meter fees in the MSCD; and waiver of fee for Blanket
Vending License.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes
RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS: The Council was advised by Planning and
Housing Director Kelly Diekmann that a single amendment to the Zoning Code that eliminates
the option for multiple one- and two-family structures on a single lot is the simplest method to
differentiate among uses within zoning districts and to provide for traditional standard
subdivision requirements. This type of zoning text amendment would not require substantial Code
changes within the Zoning Ordinance for each zoning district and/or changes within the
Subdivision chapter, and at the same time would ensure traditional development patterns for all
use types within the zoning districts.
Council Member Larson asked if that meant that the City would not require subdivision of land
occur on lots over one acre unless there is a request to buil d a second structure. Director
Diekmann said that was correct. He advised that the way the Code is currently written, there
must be one structure per lot; however, there are exceptions that allow multiple commercial and
industrial institution buildings, multiple apartment buildings, and multiple single-family or two-
family dwellings if the minimum lot size is one acre. If that provision is stricken, only one
principal structure could be on a single lot. If more than one structure was being requested, the
developer would have to subdivide.
Council Member Orazem inquired as to how structures are defined in the Code. Mr. Diekmann
advised that it would be specific to one- and two-family dwellings. He further clarified that,
currently, the general development standards found in Section 29.401(5)c of the Municipal Code
allow for development with an unlimited number of single- and two-family buildings on a lot that
is greater than one acre provided it is with the required density range. This exception applies to
all zoning districts where the use is allowed. That type of development pattern on a large scale
is not customarily found in low-density residential areas and does not fit with t he purpose and
principles identified for the low-density zones.
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Council Member Wacha questioned if the exception section dealt specifically with any zone, e.g.,
Residential High, Low, or Medium. Director Diekmann said that was correct. Mr. Wacha then
asked how apartment dwelling is defined so that developers could still build multiple apartment
buildings in a high- or medium-density zone. Mr. Diekmann responded that an apartment building
is three or more attached units, so the base zoning district still must allow the use and t hen the
development standards are considered. What staff is proposing is an exception to development
standards, not an exception for use.
At the request of Council Member Wacha, City Attorney Parks provided information on how the
exception section got added in the Code. She said the current section was added to the Code in
2000.
Moved by Szopinski, seconded by Goodman, to direct staff to prepare a draft zoning text
amendment to eliminate the provision for more than one single-family or two-family structure
on a lot greater than one acre for all zoning district s.
Council Member Goodman advised that his main reason to support the motion is that it will be
less cost-prohibitive when buildings need to be replaced.
City Attorney Parks stated that the request for an ordinance change will be pr esented to the
Planning & Zoning Commission for recommendation at its next meeting. The ordinance will then
come before the City Council for a public hearing and the required three readings.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Director Diekmann clarified that this would require residential properties larger than one acre to
be subdivided into individual lots prior to development. This would provide a process that has
each home on its own lot with frontage on a street, access, public utilities, sidewalks, yard area,
and off-street parking.
DOWNTOWN FACADE GRANT APPLICATIONS: City Planner Jeff Benson noted that the City
Council annually budgets $50,000 Local Option Sales Tax revenue for the Downtown Façade
Improvement Grants pr ogram. One application is accepted per building location and ther e is one
round of review per year with the option of a second round of review if there are available funds.
Because of unused funds from the previous fiscal year, the City has $67,550 available for the
2013-2014 program. According to Mr. Benson, four property owners have submitted a total of
five applications totaling $72,000. The maximum grant amount is up to $15,000 for façade work
plus an additional $1,000 if an applicant chooses to use an architect in preparing a design. Mr.
Benson reported that three Main Street Cultural District representatives and two City staff
members had evaluated the grant applications based on the City Council adopt ed 2011 Scoring
Criteria and Guidelines.
Project summaries were presented by Planner Benson, and a location map and project design
illustrations were shown. The applications received were as follows:
1.Town Center (West Building), 330 Main Street
2.Town Center (East Building), 328 Main Street
3.The Spice Restaurant, 402 Main Street
4.Lee’s Computers & More, 122 Main Street
5.Vacant (Burnett Avenue Facade), 323 - 5th Street.
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According to Planner Benson, the total estimated cost of the itemized façade improvements is in
all cases at least twice the amount requested and in most cases exceeds that minimum required
amount.
Regarding 330 and 328 Main, Mr. Benson stated that the intent is to return as much of the
buildings as possible to their appearance of the 1940s and 1950s before the white metal panels
were added to the front of the buildings. However, until the metal panels are removed, it is not
possible to be certain of the extent of improvements that are possible. Staff is recommending that
award of these two façade grants be conditional on final plans being prepared after the metal
panels are removed and those plans being approved by staff as being consistent with the scop e
of façade improvements required by the grant criteria and the Downtown Design Guidelines in
terms of the types of materials and design details relating to the windows and storefront design.
The Council was reminded by Mr. Benson that the general policy of the Council has been to not
allow a second grant for t he same building in the first round of grant solicitation. However, this
request is similar to the 203/205 Main (Antique Ames) where two separate grants were awarded
for two separate store fronts in what was built as one building. In order to award the grant to 402
Main, the Council will have to concur with staff’s conclusion that this request is similar to
203/205 Main.
Planner Benson described the project at 323-5th Street (formerly Mathison Ford). He pointed out
that the former vehicle service shop bays face Burnett. The project would consist of replacing
the overhead doors with commercial entrances and replacing the windows to prepare the building
for office use. The improvements are not intended to comply with the historical design guidelines,
but rather t o comply wit h the sepa rate comme rcial guidelines for other downtown buildings.
According to Mr. Benson, while the conceptual improvements would be beneficial to the site, it
did not rank well compared to the other applications as it did not provide a great deal of visual
or economic impact due to the location and building type and has minimal detail on its proposed
commercial improvements other than replacement of non-compliant overhead doors. Mr. Benson
said that, if the City Council has interest in the site at this ti me, staff would request the
opportunity to work with the owner and architect to see if the project could provide additional
details and conform to more of the elements of the design guidelines. Staff was also
recommending that the applicant look to remove the driveway aprons and curb cuts servi ng the
overhead doors A more detailed application could then be presented to City Council for
consideration at a subsequent meeting.
Moved by Larson, seconded by Davis, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 13-381 approving the first
four projects listed above: 330, 328, 402 and 122 Main, with the grants for 328 and 330 Main
conditional on final plans to be approved by staff as consistent with the Downtown Design
Guidelines and grant criteria after the metal panels are re moved.
The Mayor noted that the motion rejects the application for 323-5th Street and approves four
grants totaling $56,000 from the Downtown Facade Grant fund.
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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LAND USE POLICY PLAN FUTURE LAND USE MAP AMENDMENT FOR 601 SOUTH 16TH
STREET: City Planner Ray Anderson advised that, on June 17, 2013, the Randall Corporation had
submitted an application for a Land Use Policy Plan (LUPP) Future Land Use Map Change for
property located at 601 S. 16th Street. This was in response to a determination by the City
Council on May 14, 2013, that the proposed Map Amendment would be processed as a Minor
LUPP Amendment. The p roposed c hange in t he land us e designa tion woul d be from Med ium-
Density Residential and Highway-Oriented Commercial to High-Density Residential.
Mr. Anderson stated that the land area for this proposal includes approximately eight acres
located on the north side of S. 16th Street, east of South Grand Avenue, south of Coldwater Golf
Links, and west of Aspen Ridge. Planner Anderson showed maps of the subject property, the
proposed uses, current zoning, and proposed zoning. The Council was advised that the map
change would eliminate the Medium-Density Residential designation from the property and
would reduce the amount of land designated as Highway-Oriented Commercial (HOC) from
approximately five acres to about three acres and would designate the remaining five acres of
land as High-Density Residential. With the creation of the High Density Residential area, the
applicant has proposed to follow-up with a rezoning to RH High Density Residential. The RH
zoning would allow the development of a senior living complex (The Village Cooperative) on
the southern portion adjacent to S. 16th Street and an apartment building on the northern portion
adjacent to the golf course. The zoning of the remaining area to the west would remain as HOC
to support future commercial development on the corner of S. Grand Avenue and S. 16th Street.
According to Planner Anderson, the Highway Oriented Commercial area would be reduced in
area by about two acres and the Medium-Density Residential would be reduced by about three
acres. He noted that the reduction of the Medium Density area would not allow for the future
expansion of the Aspen Ridge Townhomes as originally envisioned by that Planned Residence
Development (PRD) Plan.
Steve Johns, 417 Aspen Ridge Road, Ames, shared concerns that he and his neighbors have
regarding the rezoning proposal. He asked that the Council weigh the significance of what a
change in zoning would mean for the area locate d very nea r the Aspe n Ridge Townhome
Complex and Cold Water Golf Course. Mr. Johns told the Council about the assurances given
pertaining to future development by Scott Randall, the developer and selling agent, to him and
every person purchasing townhome property in Aspen Ri dge. Mr. J ohns prov ided some history
of the area. The property was initially rezoned to Medium-Density Residential. However, the City
Council then granted Scott Ran dall’s r equest an d rezoned the land w est of the Townhome
Complex to High-Density Residential and allowed The Grove, which consists of 586 rooms, and
The Laverne Apartments, which consists of 72 units, to be built. Mr. Johns alleged that those
developments placed between 1,400 and 1,600 people on a few acres of land, which contributes
to very high traffic volumes on South 16th Street. Mr. Johns also advised that residents of the
townhome complex just learned that the Randall Corporation had sold more land across the street
for The Copper Beach complex, which will consist of 109 units and add another 300 people
entering onto South 16th Street. In addition, they have been told that Scott Randall is planning to
develop the north side into more apartments. Mr. Johns said that the proposal in question is for
high-density, four-story housing to be built within 66 feet of the balconies of people owning
townhomes on the west side. Their only view outside their balcony will be thr ee floors the The
Village Cooperative. According to Mr. Johns, Scott Randall has broken his promises numerous
times to the Aspen Ridge residents, who invested a large part of ir life savings into his promise
of a luxury golf course community. Mr. Johns urged the City Council members to deny the
request for an LUPP change and not allow more high-density housing.
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Bob Brinton, 425 Aspen Ridge Road, Ames, advised that he and his wife moved to Ames in Fall
2012 after an extensive search as to where they would purchase a home after retirement. He
explained what had made the Aspen Ridge neighborhood so special to them. He brought the
Council’s attention to Code Section 29.102 and 29.702, which is what he felt protected their
property from high-density development. Mr. Brinton advised that if the property in question is
allowed to be rezoned to high-density, South 16th will be congested during all months of the year.
Mr. Brinton contended that when the City rezoned the property in question to Medium-Density
Residential, it made a covenant to land owners and Ames citizens that growth would be regulated.
Mr. Brinton sees it as a matter of integrity on the part of the City.
James Sogard, 1517 Golden Aspen Drive, Ames, told the Council that, when he and his wife
purchased their home, it was with the understanding and commitment th at the area would b ecome
a beautiful townhome community on a golf course. Mr. Sogard referenced the commitment made
by the developer, Planning and Zoning Commission, and City Council to the property owners
when they rezoned the area to Medium-Density Residential. He showed a picture as a depiction
of what he would see from his home should the proposed three-story structure be allowed to be
built. Mr. Sogard said that he believes The Village Cooperative is a very good concept and is
needed in Ames; however, the proposed building would come as close as ten feet from his
property line. After hearing testimony at the Planning and Zoning Commission that the neighbors
of a cooperative-type development built in Mason City had been skeptical, but now love the
facility, Mr. Sogard said he visited the area. He showed pictures of the facility and pointed out
the vast differences in that the neighbors to the facility only are on one side across a road and are
approximately 500 feet away. Mr. Sogard said he is uncertain what the developer is planning for
the property directly north of the proposed Cooperative because all he has been able to find out
is that it will be a multi-story high-density building. He asked if the citizens of Ames should be
able to rely on the commitments and integrity of its city leaders when it comes to zoning and
long-range planning. Mr. Sogard stated that he and others had invested thousands and thousands
of dollars in their homes believing that the city leaders would stand by zoning commitments that
they had made.
Paul Twedt, 1516 Golden Aspen Drive, Ames, questioned why a portion of the development
where persons had invested in their homes would be allowed to be rezoned from Medium-Density
Residential to High-Density Residential. The current home owners were told that they were
purchasing properties in the first phase of a luxury townhome development and that the second
phase would consist of additional townhomes. Mr. Twedt said that there is land available west
of the current townhome development, and he felt that that would be a great location for the
proposed cooperative housing complex. He stated that he and other residents would welcome The
Village Cooperative at that location. The City Council was asked by Mr. Twedt to very carefully
consider the purpo se of the r equest of the devel oper as it impacts ma ny others besides h im.
Donna Sogard, 1517 Golden Aspen Drive, Ames, told the Council that her home was one of the
ones that would be affected the most by the proposed Cooperative and the increased traffic along
South 16th Street. She explained how her and her husband’s search for a townhome on a golf
course had led them to Aspen Ridge. Ms. Sogard referenced the promise of the developer of more
townhomes to be constructed, which never came to fruition. It saddens her that the view outside
her home could be a three-story building. The building would be 90 feet from her home at the
most. Ms. Sogard asked the Council to retain the zoning as Medium-Density as was promised
when she and her husband purchased their home.
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Nina Rasmussen, 417 Aspen Ridge Road, Ames, explained her many concerns with the proposal.
She referenced a conflict between what the letter stated that was sent by the City to residents,
which she received on July 30, 2013, and the information presented at the Planning and Zoning
Commission meeting. Ms. Rasmussen explained that the letter stated that the proposal was to
change the land use designation from Highway-Oriented Commercial to High-Density
Residential and from Medium-Density Residential to High-Density Residential. However, at the
meeting, staff stated that the proposal was to change Medium-Density Residential to High-
Density Residential, but that the Highway-Oriented Commercial would remain. According to Ms.
Rasmussen, the purchasers of the Aspen Ridge Townhomes were told by the developer that they
were buying into a luxury townhome golf course co mmunity. She said tha t the town home owners
were also told by the developer that the townhome complex would be built in three phases.
Townhomes were to be built all the way to Grand Avenue and residential would be on the other
side. Three years ago, the zoning was changed. West of Grand Avenue, apartment buildings were
constructed in a very short period of time. Because the townhome residents did not live within
300' of those buildings, they were not informed that the changes were taking place. Nothing that
has been done in the recent past was what they were promised by the developer prior to them
purchasing their townhome. Ms. Rasmussen said that she is not opposed to a retirement complex
being built; however, her main concern of The Village Cooperation is the height of the building
and the setbacks for the complex. An additional concern is that South 16th Street, a two-lane
roadway, could not withstand the additional traffic. She had been told that the roadway is an
institutional road, and it would be the responsibility of Iowa State University (ISU) to expand it
to four lanes. Ms. Rasmussen said that she had also been told that ISU did not have the money
in its budget to expand South 16th Street to four lanes. She asked that the City Council honor its
promise to the residents who have purchased property that the area would remain a residential
area.
Shane Wright, 1400 Corporate Center Curve, Suite 100, Eagen, Minnesota, spoke as a
representative of the residential housing development company planning the construction of The
Village Cooperative. Mr. Wright said that his company carefully selected the City of Ames as the
place to build The Village Cooperation as the community has a retirement home deficit.. He
advised that the location is ideal for a retirement community due to its access to the University
and South Duff commercial area. Mr. Wright advised that since his company began marketing
the Cooperative, 35 out of the 50 units have been reserved. Mr. Wright purported that The
Village Cooperative would be a very good neighbor; all units are owner-occupied. Mr. Wright
showed a drawing depicting the elevations for The Village Cooperative compared to the Sogard
townhome. He also showed a map indicating the buffers between The Cooperative and the Aspen
Ridge Townhomes.
Ken Janssen, 3006 Grove Avenue, Ames, identified himself as one of the subscribers to become
a resident of the proposed Village Cooperative. He has lived in Ames for over 40 years and is a
retired civil engineer and land surveyor. Mr. Janssen noted that all patios are at grade. He also
showed a schematic of the traffic pattern for The Cooperative. Mr. Janssen reported that he had
reviewed the landscaping plan and found it to be very acceptable; however, none of the plans had
been submitted to the City; they are strictly preliminary. According to Mr. Janssen, all of the
traffic in and out of the Cooperative would be at one point on South 16th Street. He pointed out
that it would be way out of people’s way to exit the area of The Cooperative by going through
the townhome area. He said that the setback on the building is actually 66' on the east end. Mr.
Janssen asked the Council to support the developer’s request.
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Nancy Janssen, 3006 Grove Avenue, Ames, identified herself as a potential resident of the
proposed Village Cooperative. At her request, the other potential residents of the proposed
development stood. She noted that she and those persons all support the request for a LUPP
change and believe that The Village Cooperative is a good fit for the area and for Ames. Ms.
Janssen addressed some of the concerns of the owners of Aspen Ridge Townhomes. The
residents of The Cooperative are basically all retired and would be avoiding rush-hour traffic. A
good percentage of those people would be gone for most of the winter months. Ms. Janssen
agreed that the possible apartment complex plans to the north of the proposed Village
Cooperative may have some effect on the values of the Aspen Townhome properties. However,
she disagreed that the construction of The Village Cooperative would de-val ue the Aspen Ridge
Townhomes. She purported that The Cooperative would be comprised of a different type of
people, i.e., age 55 and older and not coming and going during all hours of the day and night. Ms.
Janssen contended that The Village Cooperative building would actually buffer some of the noise
emanating from the large apartment complexes on the west. She pointed out that the side-yard
setback requirements are 12' feet, and the plans show The Village Cooperative building would
be 66'. It was the opinion of Ms. Janssen that The Village Cooperative plan would be an upgra de
from conventional apartments, which is what might be built there. Ms. Janssen stated that Ames
needs more retirement housing for those who wish to down-size.
David Grant, 832 L Avenue, Boone, advised that he and his wife explored many communities
before selecting Ames and the proposed Village Cooperative. He believes that it would be hard
to argue that the proposal goes against the greater good for the c itizens of Ames. It will provide
50 units of first-class affordable housing for those 55 years old and older. The building des ign
is very attractive and traffic will be kept self-contained. When prospective residents down-size
from their current homes, the homes they vacate will be available for other residents. Mr. Grant
urged the Council to follow the recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Donald Baer, 431 Aspen Ridge Road, Ames, alleged that, without the next phase of townhomes,
several things will be lost. He expects that property values will go down. Mr. Baer is extremely
concerned about what type of building will be allowed on the north side if the zoning is changed
to allow The Village Cooperative. He said that he purchased a home in the medium-density zone
and asked the Council to preserve that density.
Pam Brinton, 427 Aspen Ridge Road, Ames, relayed that the Townhome owners are not opposed
to the prospective residents moving into their neighborhood. She said that she is very concerned
that a zoning change would provide the right to the developer to do whatever he wants; in
particular, build more apartment complexes for college students. Ms. Brinton urged the Council
to retain the Medium-Density Residential zoning designation.
Mayor Campbell requested that property owner Matt Randall address the Council concerning the
promises that were made to the purchasers of townhomes pertaining to future land use and the
changes that have been made.
Matt Randall, as representative for the developer, said that the word “promise” would mean that
the develope r is breaking its promise; h owever, fo r the deve loper to assume in 2004 that
everything would be the same as it is today would be incorrect and highly unlikely. Mr. Randall
reported that the developer had hoped and intended for the property in question to be developed
as a professional, high-quality project. He contended that, so far, that had been done. According
to Mr. Randall, the economy had changed in the Ames community and the world, and the
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potential projects that had been envisioned were no longer feasible. He said that developing
$400,000 townhomes at the time they were built worked out well, but the developer no longer
foresees that to be a long-term project. Mr. Randall reported that the developer had been
approached by representatives for numerous other projects over the years, and many had been
turned down. The developer now believes that a comparable product has been found to match the
high standards that have been developed at Aspen Ridge, Cold Water Golf Links, and the Aspen
Business Park. Mr. Randall said that he lived in Aspen Ridge and was extremely happy there. He
only moved from there because he now has three children and needed a larger yard. According
to Mr. Randall, the developer has a high-quality product being proposed. From an aesthetics
standpoint, the developer has worked diligently to produce a high-quality product and feels that
it will blend in very well. Mr. Randall said that sometimes thing change; however, when a change
is needed, the developer needs to make sure that the change is the best change possibl e. The
developer believes that the project in question is going to be a great neighbor for Aspen Ridge.
Council Member Larson referenced a suggestion of Mr. Twedt, who would like consideration to
be given for moving The Village Cooperative farther to the west where Lots 1, 2, and 3 are
planned to give more buffer space. Mr. Larson said he did not want to create a situation similar
to what had occurred with the LaVerne Apartments and the Ames Christian School. Mr. Randall
guaranteed that that situation would not happen again. He alleged that the Laverne Apartments
project was the result of the City of Ames’ requirements in that they do not allow parking to be
constructed in front of the building; the location was dictated by those requirements. Relating to
the project in question, Mr. Randall said that the developers chose the best location; however,
it probably could be moved to the west. Mr. Randall stated that they have no specific plans for
the property to the north of the townhomes.
Council Member Szopinski referenced the promises that were made to the current owners of the
townhomes and promises made to potential landowners of The Village Cooperative that they will
have a golf course view. She asked if there were any contractual agreements implied when Phase
I of the townhome development was approved. City Attorney Parks said that she had not heard
of any contractual agreements made with the first phase of the development.
Council Member Larson said that the development was taken to an additional level of approval
in that the zoning change to Medium-Residential was approved with a Planned Residential
Development (PRD) overlay. Planning Director Diekmann explained that the base zone would
be Medium-Residential, which sets the density, with the PRD being approved as the design
standard.
Moved by Larson, seconded by Szopinski, to deny the proposed amendment to the LUPP Future
Land Use Map to change the land use designation of land located at 601 S. 16 th Street and to
encourage the owner of the property to come back with an alternative location to the west for The
Village Cooperative.
Council Member Goodman noted that the City Council many times gets pressure from people to
make changes t hat ulti mately affect a lot more people in the future. He noted that the land in
question was formerly zoned Highway-Oriented Commercial and then rezoned for residential.
The property is located on a busy roadway, which is not conducive to retir ement living.
Vote on Motion: 5-0-1. Voting aye: Davis, Larson, Orazem, Szopinski, Wacha. Voting nay:
None. Abstaining due to a conflict of interest: Goodman. Motion declared carried.
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The meetin g recess ed at 9:17 p.m. and rec onvened a t 9:26 p.m.
UPDATE ON XENIA RURAL WATER ISSUE: Assistant City Manager Bob Kindred indicated
that staff had worked extensively since the Council’s last discussion on Xenia Rural Water and
growth to the north to find the history needed to help facilitate a Council decision. He reminded
the Council that it had, on June 25, 2013, directed staff to continue to work with Xenia to attempt
to negotiate an agreement to buy out the right to provide water service to the areas that are
proposed for annexation and to Rose Prairie development that had already been annexed. Staff
had also been directed to work with Xenia’s creditors in an attempt to accelerate negotiations.
In addition, the Council had requested staff to provide a map to the Council showing the
surrounding area (in a two-mile limit) that would be in Xenia’s service territory. A number of
legal issues had also been raised.
Mr. Kindred told the Council that the research into the history behind the City’s dealings with
Xenia is extensive, and staff will need a couple more weeks to complete that work. In addition,
the City Attorney needs to review all the documents.
City Attorney Parks reported on various legal issues. She advised that the City had selected
Dorsey & Whitney as outside counsel to represent the City in its negotiations with Xenia. Ms.
Parks stated that it is crucial to know what the facts are; however, currently, there is an absence
of documentation of past practices between the City and Xenia. Addressing a past referral to staff
from the City Council, i.e., the Constitutional provision of the Iowa Constitution that indicates
“the state shall never assume or be responsible for the debts or liabilities of any assoc iation or
corporation,” Ms. Parks said that, in the context of this situation, as long as the City does not
become liable as a surety for the debt, it can pay Xenia for the right to provide water service. She
provided the definition of surety. Another question raised was whether a monthly surcharge could
be imposed on the portion of residents who would be served by Xenia. In response, Ms. Parks
advised that neither she nor Dorsey & Whitney had found a clear answer to that question. It is
clear, however, that connection fees could be set up as a financing option. Even assuming that
a surcharge may be imposed legally, the ability of the current Council to mandate or obligate
future Councils to continue that surcharge is questionable since generally one Council may not
require a later Council to impose or continue a charge related to a governmental function such
as a water utility. The third question pertained to installing infrastructure in the absence of a buy-
out. It has not yet been proven that the 1996 Agreement between the City and Xenia is valid;
however, if so, there would be considerable risk of subjecting the City to legal action if it moved
ahead and installed infrastructure and began serving the area.
Assistant City Manager Kindred advised that, since June 25, staff had met with Xenia’s two
major creditors regarding how the current negotiations might be affected by their debt
restructuring agreements with Xenia. On August 5, staff met with Bill Menner, State Director of
the USDA’s Rural Development program. The information gleaned at the meeting with USDA
was summarized by Mr. Kindred. The Council was told that, on August 6, staff spoke with
representatives of Assured Guaranty Municipal Corporation’s New York office (Assured).
Assured is a large public finance firm that holds and guarantees a substantial portion of Xenia’s
debt and which recently reached a “forbearance agreement” that allowed Xenia to restructure its
debt and avoid going into receivership. Mr. Kindred reported on the highlights of that meeting.
Both the USDA and Assured would require their review and approval of any agreement entered
into between the City and Xenia. Water and Pollution Control Director John Dunn explained that
14
representatives of the USDA and Assured Guaranty Municipal Corporation indicated that their
review of any signed agreement could occur concurrently.
Regarding the financial condition of Xenia Rural Water, Finance Director Duane Pitcher
summarized the review of its audit reports. He reported that, for the past year ending December
31, 2012, Xenia did have some improvement in its financial condition related to the debt
restructuring and forbearance agreements, which lowered its interest rate and extended the time
of the payments. Mr. Pitcher provided additional information related to the Auditor’s opinion that
significant uncertainties remain regarding Xenia’s ability to conti nue its operations and to satisfy
its obligations to its creditors on a timely basis..
Mr. Kindred reported on the progress of negotiations with Xenia concerning a buy-out option.
Xenia officials had indicated that its Board’s Finance Committee had directed them to prepare
an evaluation of the income potential under a series of different scenarios. City representatives
were told that none of the scenarios contained repayment of any of Xenia’s current debt. Based
on that analysis, Xenia’s position was for the City to pay a monthly fee of $17.92/customer,
which would be inflated 2% annually, over the next 28 years. That would equate to
$31.30/month/customer by the end of the agreement. Each of the four proposals offered by the
City were reviewed by Mr. Kindred:
1.The City would pay a $3.98/month/customer fee with no annual inflation adjustment over 28
years.
2.There would be a connection fee of $486/new customer with no annual inflation adjustment
over 28 years.
3.Four scenarios that were based on the Council’s June 25 motions:
a.A payment reflecting a proration of the Ames land area (less than one square mile)
compared to Xenia’s total land area stretching over 13 counties.
b.A proration of the projected number of Ames customers (1,000) compared to Xenia’s
total customers (currently 9,400).
c.A per-acre payment amount equivalent to what Barilla paid the Central Iowa Water
Association in 1997. An equivalent payment to Xenia for the proposed annexation
areas (including Rose Prairie) would be 459.22 acres x $75.23 = $34,550. Inflation
could be added to that amount.
d.An equivalent to the amount per-acre paid by the Northridge Heights developers in
2000 when they negotiated a buy-out of that territory from Xenia. An equivalent
payment to Xenia for the proposed annexation areas, including Rose Prairie, would be
459.22 acres x $700/acre = $321,500. Inflation could bring the amount up to $437,000.
4.A one-time $3,762 fee charged when the customer is connected to City water service.
Xenia staff indicated that they could recommend No. 4 to their Board.
Council members were told by Mr. Kindred that, given the significant monthly and/or up-front
costs future Ames citizens would have to incur, they might want to consider whether it would be
acceptable to allow Xenia to retain the annexed service territ ory. According to Xenia officials,
it would still impose an up-front charge estimated at $1,000/customer that each homeowner
would pay to help cover the cost of Xenia’s new infrastructure in the area. City Manager
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Schainker emphasized that the charge to each customer would be $3,762 t o connect to the sys tem,
$1,000/customer up-front charge, the ongoing monthly charges to cover Xenia’s system
availability charge, which is currently $17.92, plus the actual cost of water purchased by each
customer from Ames.
Mr. Kindred n oted that if that option is p ursued, t he City wou ld impose additiona l terms to be
confirmed in an agreement approved by both governing bodies, which would include:
1.Xenia would provide an urban level of water service, which would include building and
maintaining its infrastructure to City standards and making its hydrants and water available
to the City for fire fighting.
2.Xenia would serve the area with Ames water.
3.The City would inspect Xenia’s water main construction and maintain Xenia’s distribution
system within the City.
4.The City would handle billing and collections for Xenia’s water service.
5.A rate formula would be specified that confirms the basis for rates charged to Xenia
customers living in Ames.
6.Should Xenia fail to perform any of its responsibilities under the agreement, the annexed
territory and infrastructure would revert to City control. Xenia would be compensated for the
depreciated value of infrastructure that it had paid to install to serve the area.
Lastly, Mr. Kindred summarized key findings of the report, which were to be taken into
consideration by the City Council when making a decision. If the Council decides to proceed,
staff would recommend that the City pursue a buy-out option with a one-time non-inflating
connection fee with no monthly customer charge. The downside to that approach is that the
$3,762 fee imposes a significant additional cost to the price of housing in Ames and sets an
unwelcome precedent for other cities that are exper iencing t he same type of interaction with rural
water. However, if the City Council feels that the buy-out option is still too costly, staff could
be directed to communicate that to Xenia and to present additional buy-out offers.
Council Member Larson said that the first thing that must be determined is if Xenia legally has
jurisdiction.
Mr. Kindred gave an update on the role legislators play concerning rural water issues. He stated
that there continue to be discussions with affected cities and t he Iowa League of Cities.
Moved by Wacha, seconded by Goodman, to accept the staff report.
Chuck Winkleblack, 105 S. 16th Street, Ames, noted that no one from the development
community was consulted about or agreed to the 1996 Agreement between the City and Xenia.
He alleged that the Agreement was ambiguous at best. Mr. Winkleblack pointed out that the
Council should not be referring to what the developer should or should not do or have done
because the development community was never consulted. He advised that this construction
season has already been lost and urged that the City move as rapidly as possible to resolve this
issue as there is an imminent need for more buildable lots.
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Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Szopinski, seconded by Wacha, to direct staff, after the maps are received delineating
the boundaries of water rights, to consider looking at other annexation opportunities withi n the
two-mile fringe.
Council Member Davis disagreed with the motion, stating his belief that it is not the City’s
responsibility to negotiate with landowners. Council Member Larson concurred, stating the
developers usually have a keen sense of what land might become available. City Manager
Schainker noted that, in 2009, he was directed by the Council to be proactive and began
contacting land owners. Ultimately, it was determined that that was not the best practice.
Motion withdrawn.
URBAN DEER MANAGEMENT: Police Chief Chuck Cychosz recalled that the Task Force
recommendations to the City Council included an annual survey of deer population, a ban on deer
feeding, public education efforts, and limited urban bow hunting of deer. He advised an aerial
count in January identified 380 deer in the survey area as compared wi th 276 dee r in the s ame
areas last year. This increase from the previous survey is likely to reflect fluctuations in winter
weather. Deer densities met or exceeded 30 deer/square mile in seven of the eleven areas
surveyed. According to Chief Cychosz, densities exceeding 30 deer/square mile are generally
thought to be the most likely to have human-deer conflict at a level where intervention is
warranted. During 2012, there were 32 tags purchased and ten deer were harves ted.
According to Chief Cychosz, the Urban Deer Task Force met to consider the deer count as well
as other data collected about whitetail deer within the City. Following the Task Force meeting,
seven items were circulated to the Task Force members for a vote. Comments from Task Force
members illustrated the broad range of public attitudes toward deer and deer hunting. One
perspective supported bowhunting of deer as a safe intervention that allows property owners in
specific neighborhoods or locations to address a problem with deer concentration. Others felt that
deer hunting is unnecessary and fails to control the population of deer causing problems within
the City. Mr. Cychosz informed the Council of the recommendations and votes of the Task Force
members. Summarizing, he advised that a majority of the Task Force members supported the
continuation of hunting in designated City locations. He noted that dates for those locations are
recommended by the Parks and Recreation staff. Chief Cychosz noted that, in addition to the
votes, the feedback included commentary, both pro and con, regarding the benefit of urban
bowhunting. Even after lengthy discussions on this topic, the Task Force was not unanimous in
its view. Comments in opposition to the recommendations were shared by Chief Cychosz.
The Council was reminded by Chief Cychosz that the Iowa Department of Natural Resources
(DNR) establishes legal hunting hours and dates for the City of Ames. However, the City may
modify those as long as they fall within the overall DNR timeline.
The staff recommendations were presented by Chief Cychosz pertaining to the locations, dates,
and times for deer hunting. He noted that all dates are subject to adjustment by the Ames Police
Department, and hunting may be temporarily suspended by the Ames Police Department in any
location for safety-related reasons.
Mr. Cychosz stated that, in addition, the Urban Deer Task recommended continuation of the
process that allows private property or other non-city public property to be enrolled as urban deer
17
hunting locations. He noted that the process of establishing eligibility requires the owner or
lawful agent in control of the property to submit a written request for participation to the Police
Department and requests must include owner/agent permission for at least three contiguous
properties.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Davis, to approve bow hunting within the park system, City
property, and other eligible property as detailed in the Urban Deer M anagement ordinance and
rules.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
LIBRARY RENOVATION AND EXPANSION PROJECT: Moved by Goodman, seconded by
Wacha, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 13-383 approving revised Change Order No. 4 with
A&P/Samuels Group for a reduction of $22,714.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Szopinski, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 13-384 approving
Change Order No. 5 with A&P/Samuels Group for an increase of $79,082.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON AMES PUBLIC LIBRARY WOOD WINDOW RESTORATION PROJECT:
Mayor Campbell opened the public hearing. There being no one else wishing to speak, the Mayor
closed the hearing.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Orazem, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 13-385 approving final
plans and specifications and awarding a contract to Scott Petersen Construction, Inc., of Tyler,
Minnesota, in the amount of $125,860.
At the inquiry of Council Member Larson, Construction Manager Brad Heemstra advised that the
wooden windows will result in approximately $50,000 additional cost.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Orazem, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 13-386 approving the
contract and bond.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
WATER METERS AND RELATED PARTS: Moved by Davis, seconded by Szopinski, to direct
staff to prepare an amendment to Appendix Q of the Municipal Code to adopt new meter fees.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Szopinski, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 13-387 awarding a
contract to Badger Meter of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to furnish water meters and related parts at
an estimated annual cost of $263,000.
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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Moved by Davis, seconded by Szopinski, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 13-388 approving
contract renewal with Elster AMCO of Ocala, Florida, to furnish water meters and related parts
at an estimated annual cost of $15,000.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
DESIGN FEES FOR NEW WATER TREATMENT PLANT: Water and Pollution Control
Director Dunn reminded the Council that it had, on August 28, 2012, approved a Professional
Services Agreement with Fox Engineering for the final detailed design of the new water treatment
plant, including bidding and construction phase services. He noted that, as the design process
evolved, the estimated cost of the project had increased. The design process for the project
included a value engineering (VE) session that was to be conducted at the 80% complete stage.
However, after receiving the most-recent cost estimate at the 40% completion stage, staff
determined that it was necessary to begin a comprehensive re-evaluation of the design
immediately in order to look for ways to reduce costs without sacrificing the fundamental mission
of the facility.
According to Mr. Dunn, the VE review is still in process; however, staff had already decided to
adopt two changes to reduce the construction costs:
1.Reduce the size of the clearwell and backwash recovery basin.
2.Eliminate the at-grade vehicle entrance into the west end of the pipe ga llery.
Director Dunn said that staff will bring the results of the completed evaluation back to the City
Council. Staff is anticipating a total construction cost savings i n excess of $3,000,000 and
anticipates that the total redesign cost will be approximately $500,000. To keep the design
process on schedule, staff recommended that the Council authorize an additional $71,300 in
design fees to Fox Engineering for redesign of the two specific above-listed elements.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Wacha, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 13-389 approving an
increase of $71,300 to FOX Engineering for additional design fees for new Water Treatment
Plant.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
ORDINANCE REZONING PROPERTY AT 4130 LINCOLN SWING: Moved by Davis,
seconded by Larson, to pass on second reading an ordinance rezoning property located at 4130
Lincoln Swing from Residential Low Density “RL” to Residential High Density “RH.”
Roll Call Vote: 5-1. Voting aye: Davis, Goodman, Larson, Orazem, Wacha. Voting nay:
Szopinski. Motion declared carried.
ORDINANCE REVISING PARKING REGULATIONS ON BURNHAM DRIVE: Moved by
Goodman, seconded by Davis, to pass on second reading an ordinance revising parking
regulations on Burnham Drive.
Roll Call Vote: 4-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
ORDINANCE TO CORRECT TABLE 29.808(2) PERTAINING TO USES IN THE DOWN-
TOWN SERVICE CENTER: Moved by Davis, seconded by Goodman, to pass on third reading and
adopt ORDINANCE NO. 4156 correcting Table 29.808(2) pertaining to uses in the Downtown
Service Center zone.
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Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Ordinance declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Council Member Orazem recognized that the Council had received a letter
from the Ames Rental Association (ARA) asking that it direct staff to review Chapter 13 of the
Municipal Code. Noting that the Council had held many meetings reviewing Chapter 13 in the
recent past and made several changes to the Code, Mr. Orazem requested a brief staff report on
where “some of the sticking points had been” given that it had been approximately 18 months
since that review. He specified that he did not want an entire review, however.
City Manager Schainker asked for clarification of the request, asking if he were directing staff to
meet with the ARA. Council Member Larson said that he would not want staff to attempt to
“second-guess” the entire Chapter.
Moved by Orazem, s econded b y Goodman, di recting staff to me et with representatives of the
Ames Rental Association to determine where the issues are and report back to the Council via a
memo.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Goodman, to refer to staff the request of Jason Cantonwine
regarding a Habitat for Humanity build on Duff Avenue south of 9th Street.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Szopinski, seconded by Wacha, to direct staff, after further information has been
received regarding Xenia service territory maps and agreements, to overlay those maps on the
fringe to investigate other developable land opportunities within the two-mile fringe.
Council Member Davis offered that he could only support the motion if the Council could see the
maps of the Xenia service territory prior to directing staff to do anything.
Council Member Larson stated that he would not be supporting the motion because he believes
negotiating for land development is a private-sector function. He would rather have the staff
devote its time to resolving the issues with Xenia.
Council Member Goodman said that having the information available provides more options for
the City. He believes that having alternatives only str engthens the City’s position.
City Manager Schainker asked if the Council was asking staff to talk to property owners or only
to overlay the map on the fringe area. Ms. Szopinski clarified that the motion was for staff to
overlay the map over the two-mile fringe area. Mr. Larson pointed out that there are other areas
that might be available, e.g., School District property, Christofferson property, old Middle School
property.
Vote on Motion: 4-2. Voting aye: Goodman, Orazem, Szopinski, Wacha. Voting nay: Davis,
Larson. Motion declared carried.
Moved by Szopinski, seconded by Goodman, to refer to staff for a memo as to whether the City
would consider the request of residents in the Garfield/Ross Road/Quebec area for the City to
acquire a portion of 1105 Garfield for use as a community garden.
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Ms. Szopinski advised that this proposal was just brought to her at tention by neighbors of the
property. She said it was time-sensitive since the property was now for sale.
Citing the Council’s policy on referrals, Council Member Davis said the request neede d to be
provided to the Council members for review first. He was not willing to refer it to staff without
first seeing the proposal.
Council Member Larson said he would prefer that the request come through the budgeting process
in the fall. There are many issues, i.e., zoning, subdividing. He would like the request to come first
before the Parks & Recreation Commission.
Vote on Motion: 2-4. Voting aye: Goodman, Szopinski. Voting aye: Davis, Larson, Orazem,
Wacha. Motion failed.
Ex officio Member Alexandria Harvey referenced a e-mail memo that she had sent on August 9,
2013, to the Mayor and City Council pertaining to the Council workshop on rental inspections of
Greek houses currently scheduled to occur on August 20. She had talked to several student
representatives, and they are not available on August 20, 2013. Ms. Harvey asked that the
workshop be moved to a date in September so that more students from the Greek Community to
participate in the discussion.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Wacha, to direct that staff to set September 17, 2013, to hold
the workshop concerning rental inspections of the Greek houses.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Ms. Harvey advised that she had received an e-mail from ISU student William Richard, who lives
in the Fountainview Apartments on Mortensen Road. In the e-mail, Mr. Richard had expressed
concern for the safety of bicyclists and pedestrians at night and requested that the City look into
placing lights between Hayward and Seagrave. Ms. Harvey acknowledged that a segment of
Mortensen Road is an institutional road, Mr. Madden had responded to her indi cating that the
Ames School District and the City share responsibility for that road. Since the area is rapidly
developing, Ms. Harvey feels it is an urgent issue. She requested that the Council direct staff to
meet with Iowa State and pertinent stakeholders to address the safety conce rn.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Szopinski, to direct staff to meet with relevant stakeholders
about visibility and safety on the section of Mortensen Road from the Towers to the Middle
School.
City Manager Schainker asked Mr. Goodman to be more specific as to what stakeholders were to
be invited. Council Member Wacha answered that he felt it would be representatives of Iowa
State and the School District.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Da vis to adj ourn the meeting at 11:00 p.m.
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Diane R. Voss, City Clerk Ann H. Campbell, Mayor