HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council 07/24/2012MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA JULY 24, 2012
The regular meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor Campbell at 7:00 p.m.
on July 24, 2012, in the City Council Chambers in City Hall, 515 Clark Avenue. Present from the
Ames City Council were Davis, Larson, Orazem, and Wacha. Ex officio Member Baker was also
present. Council Members Goodman and Szopinski were absent.
PR ESEN TA TI O N O F LI FE-SAV IN G AW A R D S TO PO LI C E O FFIC ER S: Po lice C hief
C huck Cyc hosz introduce d Polic e O ffic e rs J a m ie M iller and Ed M orton, along w ith Lie ute na nt
Jeff Brinkle y, Com m anders G eoff H uff and Jim Robinson, and Suppo rt Super vis or D oug
H o u g h to n . C h ief C y ch o sz stated th a t th e P o lice D ep artm en t h ad rece iv ed a call fo r a w elfare
check at a B ea ch A venue re side nc e . The c a ller had re porte d a s m oke alar m going off in the
house and the sm e ll of sm oke com ing fr om this loc a tion. Off icer M iller a rr ived at the scene and
saw a m an do w n in th e k itch en . O fficer M o rto n arriv e d ab o u t th is tim e, an d O fficer M iller,
disr egarding his ow n safety, forced the d oo r op en an d b oth officers entered the h ou se and pu lled
th e m an o u tsid e . H e h a d n o p u lse , a n d th ey q u ick ly initiated C P R o n th e m a n an d c o n tin u ed u n til
E M S arriv ed . C h ief C y ch o sz said that th e o fficers’ q u ick resp o n se an d w illin g n ess to en ter a
h o u se filled w ith sm o k e at a g reat p erso n al h aza rd resu lted in th e m an gettin g th e im m ed iate care
he ne e de d; this m a n is e xpe c ted to make a full re c ove ry.
C hief Cychosz a c knowledged Off icers M ille r a nd M orton for their outstanding actions and
p resen ted th em w ith L ifesav in g A w ard s.
UPDA TE ON C OM M UN I TY VI S ION ING PROJECT: Susan Gwiasda, Public Relations
Officer, and Julie Weeks, Director of the Ames Convention & Visitors Bureau, gave an
overview of the Community Visioning Project. Ms. Weeks reviewed the background of the
project to date. She stated that the Promise/Vision that was created and accepted by the Council
about a year ago has been revised from “Ames, Iowa, is the heartland’s leading edge,” to
“Ames, Iowa, is a forward-thinking community.”
Susan Gwiasda reported on what has transpired with that vision. The recommended tagline,
which is a creative expression of the Promise, is “Ames, Iowa, is the Smart Choice!” She stated
that Ames’ identity is fragmented by the use of different logos by entities representing the city,
and it has become best-practice for cities to unify under one logo. The communities’ new logo
has been created, and it should be used collectively to create a unified external identity for
Ames. Ms. Gwiasda noted that the Ames Community School District has become a new player
in the Community Visioning Project, but it needs the City’s approval to do so.
Ms. Weeks stated that Ames received notice that the new Ames Logo had won a From the Roots
Award of Excellence for identity mark through the ADAI Design Exhibition. She presented the
plaque to the City.
Ms. Gwiasda reported that the new logo had a “soft opening” and had been introduced by using
it on T-shirts and posters, and we are now gearing up to begin using it on mail correspondence,
business cards, etc. She stressed the importance of message consistency to ensure that the vision
idea and language is infused into city communications.
Sue Ravenscroft, 455 Westwood, Ames, said she is aware that many complex organizations have
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gone to the idea of using the same logo with multiple colors to represent different sub-units
within the organization. She understands that concept, however, she does not understand why
the City of Ames, a governmental unit, feels it is appropriate to share a logo with private
organizations that are not part of a government. Ms. Ravenscroft referenced Dr. Milton
Freedman’s quotes that government and business should be separate. It is her belief that this
should be maintained diligently, and, therefore, does not think the Ames Chamber of Commerce
should be sharing the same logo as the City of Ames. She felt that the Chamber is a highly
partisan group.
Council Member Orazem indicated that the City does sub-contract with the Ames Chamber, the
Ames Economic Development Commission (AEDC), and the Ames Convention and Visitors
Bureau, and felt, in that sense, they are an extension of our local government. He stated that he
would encourage private organizations to join in on the usage of our logo, as long as they follow
appropriate policies and guidelines.
Council Member Larson said that the sub-contracting we do with the AEDC is to provide a face
for our own economic development, and part of that implied relationship is not to show
partisanship. He indicated that the Ames Chamber and AEDC have not taken a partisan
viewpoint on any local issue.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Wacha, to approve the revised Vision Statement of, “Ames, Iowa,
is a forward-thinking community. As a city, we are committed to fostering creativity and
innovation at the forefront of the world’s important issues that the Midwest is uniquely
positioned to address, including agriculture, veterinary medicine, sustainability, development,
diversity, education, and health care. For those who want the charms and convenience of a
small town with the opportunities and amenities that come from a major university, Ames’
position as an intelligent, progressive community creates a city and a region where everyone
has opportunities to discover and thrive;” and, to further approve the revised tagline of “Ames,
Iowa, is the Smart Choice!”
Vote on Motion: 4-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Wacha, to approve the Ames Community School District’s usage
of the new Ames logo.
Vote on Motion: 4-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
CONSENT AGENDA: Moved by Davis, seconded by Larson, to approve the following items on
the Consent Agenda:
1.M o tio n ap p ro v in g p ay me n t o f cla ims
2.M otion approving M inute s of R egular M eeting of J uly 1 0, 20 12, and Specia l M eeting of J uly 1 3,
2012
3.M otion approving R eport of Contr a c t Change O rder s for July 1-15, 20 12
4 .M o tio n ap p rov in g ren ew al o f th e follo w in g beer p erm its, w in e p erm its, an d liq u o r licen ses:
a.C lass E L iqu or, C B eer, & B W ine – A J’s L iqu or II , 25 15 C ham berlain S treet
b.C lass B B eer – Pizza Ranch of A m e s, 14 04 B oston A venue
c.C lass C L iqu or & O utdoo r Service – O lde M ain B r ew ing C o., 31 6 M ain S tr eet
5.R ESO LU TIO N N O . 12-388 approving Investm ent R eport f or Fis c a l Y ear Ending June 30 , 2012
6 .R E S O L U T IO N N O . 1 2 -3 8 9 au th o rizin g F in an ce D irec to r, A ssista n t C ity M an ag er, an d C ity
T reasurer to co nd uct any and all ban king b usiness for the C ity o f A m es
7.R ESO LU TIO N N O . 12 -390 approving A m e s Inter m odal Fac ility Lic e nse A greem e nt for
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I nc idental U s e of Prem ise s by A m e s Polic e D epar tm e nt
8 .R E S O L U T IO N N O . 1 2 -39 1 ap p rov in g S an itary S ew er A g reem en t fo r p rop erty at 1 2 1 5 O rch ard
D r ive
9 .R E S O L U T IO N N O . 1 2 -39 2 ap p rov in g co n tract w ith E M C R isk S erv ices for W o rke rs
C om pen sation A dm inistr ative S ervice s
10.R ESO LU TI O N NO . 1 2-39 3 approv ing wa ive r of formal b idding proce du res and autho r iz ing
purc ha se of Shar e d Pub lic Sa fety Softw are M a intenance fr om Sungard Pub lic Se c tor
1 1 .R E S O L U T IO N N O . 12 -3 9 4 ap p ro v in g p re lim inary p lan s a n d sp ecificatio n s fo r 2 0 1 1 /1 2 A sp h a lt
I m prove m ent Program & 20 11/12 Low Point D rainage Im provem ents - South Oak A ve nue
(South 4 Street - Linc oln W a y); setting A ugust 22, 2012 , as bid d ue da te and A ugust 28 , 20 12,th
as date of pu blic hear ing
1 2 .RES OLUTION NO. 1 2 -3 9 5 ap p r o v in g pre liminary p la n s an d s p e c ific a tio n s fo r 2 0 1 2 /1 3 CDBG
P u b lic F a c ilities N eig h b o rh o o d Infrastru c tu re Im p ro v em e n ts P ro g ram (B eed le D riv e an d A p lin
R oad); s e tting A ugust 22, 2012 , as bid due da te a nd A ugust 28, 2012 , as date of pu blic hea ring
13.R ESO LU TIO N N O . 12 -396 a pproving pre lim inary plans and s pe c ific a tions for 2011/12
D o w n to w n P av em e n t Im p ro v em e n ts (D o u g las A v en u e); settin g A u g u st 2 2 , 2 0 1 2 , as b id d u e d a te
and A ugust 28 , 20 12, as date of pu blic hear ing
14 .R E S O L U T IO N N O . 12 -39 7 ap prov ing prelim inary plans an d sp ecification s f or Sq uaw C reek
Pe de str ian B ridge; se tting A ugust 22 , 20 12, as bid d ue da te and A ugust 28 , 20 12, as da te of
public hear ing
15.R ESO LU TIO N N O . 12 -398 a pproving pre lim ina ry p lans and spe c ific a tions f or W PC Pipe
S u p p o rt P ro jec t; se ttin g A u g u st 1 5 , 2 0 1 2 , a s b id du e date an d A u g u st 2 8 , 2 0 1 2 , as d ate o f p u b lic
hear ing
16.R ESO LU TIO N N O . 12 -399 approving pre lim inary plans a nd spe c ific a tions for W ater Pollution
C o n tro l F acility E q u a lizatio n B a sin an d S lud g e B a sin R e p a irs; se ttin g S e p tem b e r 4 , 2 0 1 2 , as b id
due da te and Se pte m ber 11, 2012, as date of public hearing
1 7 .R E S O L U T IO N N O . 1 2 -4 0 0 ap p ro v in g co n trac t an d bo n d for U n it N o . 7 S tack R ep air
18 .R E S O L U T IO N N O . 12 -40 1 ap prov ing Plat of S urvey for 43 14 C och r ane P arkw ay
Roll Call Vote: 4-0. Resolutions declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
PUBLIC FORUM: No one spoke during Public Forum.
ENCROACHMENT PERMIT FOR 2428-2430 LINCOLN WAY: Moved by Davis, seconded
by Wacha, to approve an Encroachment Permit for a new sign at Charlie Yoke’s, 2428-2430
Lincoln Way.
Vote on Motion: 4-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
NEW CLASS C LIQUOR LICENSE/OUTDOOR SERVICE FOR BAR, 823 WHEELER
STREET, SUITE 4: Moved by Davis, seconded by Larson, to approve a new Class C Liquor
License/Outdoor Service for Bar, 823 Wheeler Street, Suite 4.
Vote on Motion: 4-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
NEW CLASS B NATIVE WINE PERMIT FOR ARTISAN PEACH STORES, 136 MAIN
STREET: Moved by Davis, seconded by Larson, to approve a new Class B Native Wine Permit for
Artisan Peace Stores, 136 Main Street.
Vote on Motion: 4-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
5-DAY CLASS C LIQUOR LICENSES FOR CHRISTIANI’S: Moved by Davis, seconded by
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Larson, to approve two 5-day Class C Liquor Licenses (July 30-August 3 and August 11-15) for
Christiani’s Event Center at ISU Alumni Center, 420 Beach Avenue.
Vote on Motion: 4-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
REQUESTS FROM MAIN STREET CULTURAL DISTRICT FOR OKTOBERFEST: Tom
Drenthe, Director of the Main Street Cultural District, 312 Main Street, Suite 201, Ames, stated
that this is the first annual event for Oktoberfest. He said that it is partnering with Olde Main
to host the beer garden. The beer garden will extend from the pub door to Olde Main, and
fencing will allow access to the sidewalk along the north side of Main Street, but will obstruct
the sidewalk along the south. He reported that there will be a minimum of two entrances and
three exits from the beer garden. Mr. Drenthe noted that volunteers will be checking IDs, and
they will be trained through the police identification course. He further noted that stores will
be closing, so the event will not be impacting any businesses in that immediate area.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Orazem, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 12-402 approving closure
of Main Street from Burnett Avenue to Kellogg Avenue from 4:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.; approving
closure of 16 parking spaces from Noon to 1:00 a.m. and an additional 26 spaces from 4:00 p.m.
until 1:00 a.m.; and, waiving fees for a Blanket Vending License, meter costs for parking space
closures, and costs for use of electricity in the 300 block of Main Street, subject to the Main
Street Cultural District hiring back at least one police officer for the duration of the event.
Roll Call Vote: 4-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Orazem, to approve a Blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit and
Blanket Vending License for the Oktoberfest event.
Vote on Motion: 4-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Orazem, to approve an Outdoor Service area for Olde Main
Brewing Company, 316 Main Street, for the Oktoberfest event on October 6 - 7, 2012.
Vote on Motion: 4-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
LAND USE POLICY PLAN/URBAN FRINGE AMENDMENT FOR OAKS GOLF COURSE:
City Planner Charlie Kuester stated that the City received a request from Chuck Winkleblack
to develop the Oaks Public Golf Course. It is located at 630 West 190 Street, which is outsideth
the city limits. Mr. Kuester described the site location, which is located just north of Ada
Hayden Heritage Park. The bulk of it lies within the Urban Fringe Plan, and is identified as
Parks and Recreation Area and a portion of it at the south end is designated as Natural Area.
There is also a General Flood Plain Area at the northeast corner of the site. The developer is
requesting that the entire Oaks site be designated as Rural Residential to allow residential uses
on this site. Mr. Kuester explained that the Natural Area is not intended to be developed for
residential purposes. The proposed change to Rural Residential would allow for residential
development at one-acre minimum lot sizes, however, the applicant seeks to develop only four
new lots. It is the intent to allow the existing clubhouse/apartment to remain on its own lot. He
explained that portions of the site are also covered by the Gateway Protection and the Watershed
Protection Area overlay designations, however, no changes to these overlays are sought.
Planner Kuester said that the original request was to change the entire area to Rural Residential,
including the Natural Area. However, the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended that
the land use designation be changed to Rural Residential. The recommendation included
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retaining no existing Natural Area on the southern two parcels, but to protect the
environmentally sensitive area in the northeast corner of the site.
Staff has reviewed the application in accordance with the City’s goals. Mr. Kuester said that,
for the most part, it is in conformance. He reported that although the Planning and Zoning
Commission’s recommendation was different than what the applicant sought, Mr. Winkleblack
is in agreement with that decision.
Mr. Kuester stated that there is a 28E Implementation Agreement with Story County and Gilbert
that allows for Story County to retain full subdivision review authority. The agreement also
allows for notification and participation by Ames in any development action proposed in the
Urban Fringe. This Agreement also requires that all three bodies have to approve a proposed
amendment in order for it to become effective. He reported that the City of Gilbert has already
approved the Oaks application, with the stipulation that it complies with all conditions placed
upon it by the City of Ames and Story County. The Story County Board of Supervisors will be
taking action on this item on July 31.
Upon being questioned by Council Member Larson, Planner Kuester reported that the policy of
the Natural Area designation is that no new residential development could occur. The club
house/apartment are pre-existing. The Natural Area designation would have no practical impact.
Chuck Winkleblack, 105 South 16 Street, Ames, stated that the Planning and Zoningth
Commission’s recommendation is a change from his original request, although he hadn’t taken
into consideration the Gateway Overlay designation. Since there is no Gateway Overlay
District, it didn’t hamper any development that he was attempting to do. Mr. Winkleblack stated
that with regard to the Ada Hayden watershed, the developer’s goal is to ensure the water quality
for the future. He felt that the watershed quality will be enhanced by this development.
Council Member Wacha stated that the Natural Area at the southern tip is in close proximity to
Ada Hayden Heritage Park. He asked what the visual impact would be as far as placement of
the four new residential homes. He said it would make a difference to him if the developers
were planning to put a house right next to Ada Hayden’s property.
Mr. Winkleblack responded that there are already homes located 50 to 60 feet away on the
southern edge of Ada Hayden. He displayed an aerial view of the Oaks Golf Course and
described where the four homes would be built. The southern most residence would be located
almost 800 feet away from the Natural Area. Mr. Winkleblack stated that access to the homes
would be off of West 190 Street.th
Fred Bradner, 1111 Stafford Avenue, Ames, came forward to ask why it is important to save the
Natural Area and Flood Plain located in the northern portion of the proposed development, and
do away with the Natural Area site in the southern part.
City Planner Kuester explained that the Natural Area designation has some very broad policies.
The one policy issue in this area is that there is no prohibition against clear-cutting it or paving
it over; the prohibition is about carving it off for residential development.
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Council Member Wacha stated that the important point is that the Natural Area is an artificial
designation, and there is nothing special about that area by Ada Hayden. However, the area to
the north, because it’s flood-prone, may be more special and more in need of a Natural Area
designation.
Moved by Wacha, seconded by Davis, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 12-403 approving the
amendment to the land use designation of the Oaks Public Golf Course from Parks and
Recreation Area to Rural Residential and the designation of the Flood Plain in the northeast as
Natural Area, subject to the limitation on subdividing this area into no more than five lots.
Roll Call Vote: 4-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
UPDATE ON DEER TASK FORCE: Police Chief Chuck Cychosz stated that since the
inception of the Special Urban Deer Task Force, an annual survey of the deer population has been
done. An aerial count in January proved to be difficult this year due to the lack of snow
coverage. There was a 37% decline from the previous survey, which was due, in large
part, to the mild weather. Deer densities exceeded 30 deer per square mile in 5 of the 9
areas surveyed.
Chief Cychosz reported that, in 2011, there were 23 hunters registered with the program and 8
deer were harvested. The Task Force convened to consider this year’s deer count, and
discussions illustrated a broad range of public attitudes toward deer and deer hunting. Some
supported bow hunting of deer, while others felt that deer hunting is unnecessary and fails to
control the population of deer causing problems within the City. He stated that the Task Force
met on uneasy middle ground; it is recommending that the City maintain the status quo for the
coming year, and allow hunting within the park system, City property, and on private property
or other non-City, public property.
Council Member Wacha asked if those in opposition to bow hunting had heard of any actual
incidents or complaints. Chief Cychosz said that nothing had been reported in this past year,
mostly because the hunting is pretty closely monitored on City property or in the parks. If
hunting is done on private property, the property owners are encouraged to have neighborhood
dialogue for local awareness.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Larson, to approve bow hunting of deer within the parks system,
City property, and other eligible property as detailed in the Urban Deer Management ordinance
and rules.
Vote on Motion: 4-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
UPDATE ON 2012 BOND ISSUE: City Manager Steve Schainker indicated that on March 6, the
Council met and authorized the issuance of bonds for the purpose of paying for improvements
to streets, water and sanitary sewer lines, flood mitigation projects, etc. He stated that while
staff has held off preparing the bond offering statement due to the uncertainty of some projects,
it is time to ascertain a new debt issue amount.
City Manager Schainker explained that staff is now recommending the total debt issue be
reduced to $13,065,500, which still includes the Library referendum. This amount excludes the
proposed $4,300,000 investment in water and sewer extensions to 590 Street along Lincolnth
Way. Mr. Schainker further explained that Dan Culhane of the Ames Economic Development
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Commission (AEDC) wants to develop a report that explains the need for more developed
industrial land, and this is slated for discussion at the August 28 Council meeting. He reported
that the $4,300,000 can be issued separately at a later date.
City Manager Schainker emphasized that the utilities extension north along Grant Avenue up
to the Quarry Estate Subdivision in the amount of $1,401,000 will accomplish the sewer and
water lines, and is included in this bond issue. However, the sticking point is that development
agreements still need to be negotiated regarding the cost-sharing for the pavement of Grant
Avenue.
Mr. Schainker said that although FEMA has rejected all but two Flood Mitigation projects, the
Council has indicated that it wishes to go head with the funding of $820,000 to pay for a limited
number of prioritized projects.
Duane Pitcher, Finance Director, stated that it is staff’s intent to bring the official offering
statement to Council at its August 14 meeting, and to set the date of sale of the bonds for
August 28.
Moved by Orazem, seconded by Davis, to authorize issuance of bonds for certain streets, water
and sewer lines, flood mitigation, bridge project, and the Library expansion/renovation
referendum in the total amount of $13,065,500.
Vote on Motion: 4-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
2011 CARBON FOOTPRINT UPDATE: Management Analyst Brian Phillips presented the
statistics for the City’s Carbon Footprint for 2011. The Council’s goal is to reduce the carbon
footprint by 15% by 2014, and the City made that goal in calendar year 2011. Mr. Phillips stated
that the report was focused on City operations, and the City utilities were excluded.
He reviewed the statistical results for the three energy sectors (building, fleet, and street light)
involved in this initiative.
UPDATE ON “COOL CITIES” INITIATIVES: Management Analyst Brian Phillips briefed the
Council on the CIP projects related to energy efficiency. He stated that energy audits have been
performed on the City’s facilities, except for the Library, Animal Shelter, and utilities plants.
He informed the Council that there are 14 projects that have been completed, 7 are in progress,
and 13 have not yet begun. Mr. Phillips reviewed each of the projects and their status.
Mr. Phillips explained that some funds have been spent to develop an energy development plan,
which will focus on optimizing the use of the equipment in place by instilling energy-conscious
habits, practices, and awareness among users. Implementation will begin next year.
STAFF REPORT ON ALTERNATIVES TO PAYDAY LENDING: Management Analyst Brian
Phillips reported that last April, the City Council adopted an ordinance amendment that restricts
the ability of new payday lenders to locate in Ames. At that time, Council asked for a report on
what agencies the City could partner with on an outreach program to help borrowers learn about
lending alternatives.
Mr. Phillips stated that educational programs might be enhanced through the ASSET priorities.
Mid-Iowa Community Action (MICA) provides financial information assistance to low-income
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individuals. He indicated that there are a few programs available through local financial
institutions that provide short-term loans, and these are primarily locally-owned banks. Some
local credit unions offer a low- or no-minimum balance account, in addition to educational
programs on lending and credit.
Council Member Orazem asked if there was a sense that local banks might partner with the City
in offering any type of outreach program. Mr. Phillips said that partnering might be more
successful through MICA, but he wasn’t sure it would have the resources to ramp up its
program. He had not approached any of the local banks about the possibility of partnering.
Council Member Larson asked if the magnitude of payday lending was known, in terms of
dollars, to which Mr. Phillips responded that he had no information on this.
CONTRACT FOR GASIFICATION SYSTEM FINANCIAL MODELING STUDY: John
Joiner, Public Works Director, said that in December 2011, the URS Corporation completed a
feasibility analysis of waste-to-energy conversion alternatives to the Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF)
that the City currently produces. The study was a higher-level study that looked at these
different technologies. It showed that gasification is the most promising of the alternative
technologies.
Public Works Director Joiner stated that, under Council direction, staff gathered more
information concerning gasification technology, which is what the Gasification System Financial
Modeling Study will do. It will look at the feasibility in financial modeling utilized in several
different technologies, along with using mass-burn technology as a base line. Mr. Joiner
explained that the study will also look at environmental impacts and regulations concerning
various scenarios, such as gas clean-up, emission control technology, and more.
Mr. Joiner said that proposals were solicited from many waste-to-energy design and consulting
construction firms. Three firms were asked to provide proposals and to interview. HDR
Engineering of Omaha, Nebraska, is the firm that staff is recommending. The firm is very
familiar with the Plant and process, as it did the original Plant design, as well as other project
designs throughout the years. He further said that HDR is currently designing a mass-burn
facility in Hawaii, as well as a gasification project in International Falls. HDR is providing the
most cost-effective proposal of the three firms interviewed.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Wacha, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 12-404 awarding a contract
to HDR Engineering, Inc., of Omaha, Nebraska, in an amount not to exceed $93,705.00 for
professional services for the Financial Modeling Study for a Gasification System for the
Resource Recovery Plant, and amending the FY 2012/13 budget to reflect the balance of funding
coming from the Resource Recovery Fund balance.
Roll Call Vote: 4-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
HEARING ON LEASE WITH YOUTH & SHELTER SERVICES FOR PARKING LOT P:
Mayor Campbell opened the hearing. There being no one wishing to speak, the hearing was
closed.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Orazem, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 12-405 approving a new
lease agreement with Youth and Shelter Services for exclusive use of Municipal Lot P expiring
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June 30, 2017, at a rate of $20/space/month, and maintaining all other provisions of the current
Agreement.
Roll Call Vote: 4-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
HEARING ON ZONING ORDINANCE TEXT AMENDMENT REGARDING
REQUIREMENTS FOR MASTER PLANS (CONTINUED FROM JUNE 26, 2012, AND
JULY 10, 2012): Mayor Campbell opened the public hearing.
City Planner Jeff Benson reported that after reviewing a report on the practicality of requiring
that the Planning and Zoning Commission and the City Council review a Master Plan prior to
submittal of a Preliminary Plat, the Council had directed staff to develop alternative zoning text
amendments.
Mr. Benson stated that, currently, a Master Plan is required to be submitted with a Preliminary
Plat when rezoning is requested to establish either a Suburban Residential Low Density (FS-RL)
or Suburban Residential Medium Density (FS-MD) zoning district. However, if the Council has
confidence that adopted standards and codes are adequate to address the impacts and design of
development, a Master Plan for a particular project would not be needed to make a zoning
decision. In situations where there are specific conditions where this type of planning could be
helpful, then the Council would have the opportunity to request a Master Plan to go along with
the rezoning request. He explained that the proposed text amendment requires the contents of
a Master Plan to be less detailed that the Code currently requires. The proposed revisions would
adopt a more generalized approach to a Master Plan.
Mr. Benson pointed out that this process will require a request for rezoning (for the FS-RL or
FS-RM) to first come to City Council before it is considered as a rezoning; the Council will then
determine if it wants a Master Plan. The request would go back to staff, then on to the Planning
and Zoning Commission, and finally back to the City Council for a rezoning hearing. This will
add a step in the rezoning process. He stated that many times, a Master Plan will not be
required, and the rest of the rezoning process will be much simpler for both the developer and
the Council.
City Planner Benson said that staff is recommending the zoning text amendment as written. He
further said that for all other rezonings, it gives the Council authority to require a Master Plan
before going any further into the development process.
Council Member Larson questioned whether this process would add a step to the Planning and
Zoning Commission process as well, to which Mr. Benson responded that the additional step
would be strictly between the developer and the City Council.
No one came forward to speak, and the Mayor closed the hearing.
Moved by Larson, seconded by Davis, to pass on first reading an ordinance modifying the
requirements for Master Plans.
Roll Call Vote: 4-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON MEC INTERCONNECTION 161-KV LINE CONSTRUCTION: The public
hearing was opened by the Mayor.
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Donald Kom, Electric Services Director, explained that on July 11, 2012, five bids were
received. Staff reviewed the bids and determined that it needs additional time to evaluate each
bid and to recommend an award that best meets the needs of the City of Ames.
Meanwhile, a final decision by the Iowa Utilities Board ( IUB) is still pending. By reporting of
bids and delaying award, staff affords the IUB more time to issue the necessary franchise prior
to making the award of this contract. Mr. Kom indicated that all easements for the transmission
line have been acquired, with the exception of two pieces of property in Polk County. The
City’s legal counsel is confident that an agreement will be reached, and that the franchise will
be granted. Currently, the IUB is allowing additional briefs to be submitted for its consideration
through August 10, 2012.
Upon questioning by Council Member Orazem, Mr. Kom responded that the current bids are
good for 60 days. He stated that the lowest bid is slightly over the engineer’s estimated amount
for the project. While the bids are still being evaluated, it is possible that staff will consider
going out for bids once more. This would delay the project again.
Mayor Campbell closed the hearing.
Moved by Wacha, seconded by Davis, to accept the report of bids and delay award of contract
for the MEC Interconnection 161-kV Line Construction.
Vote on Motion: 4-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON CITY MAINTENANCE FACILITY HVAC IMPROVEMENTS 2012: The
Mayor opened the public hearing and closed same after no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Larson, to accept the report of no bids and direct staff to rebid the
City Maintenance Facility HVAC Improvements 2012 Project.
Vote on Motion: 4-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON WATER TREATMENT PLANT FIVE-YEAR WELL REHABILITATION
PROJECT: The public hearing was opened by Mayor Campbell. No one asked to speak, and the
hearing was closed.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Wacha, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 12-406 approving final
plans and specifications and awarding contract for the Water Treatment Plant Five-Year Well
Rehabilitation Project to The Northway Corporation of Waukee, Iowa, in the annual amount of
$72,500.00.
Roll Call Vote: 4-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
HEARING ON 2011/12 COLLECTOR STREET PAVING IMPROVEMENTS
(RIDGEWOOD AVENUE): Mayor Campbell opened the public hearing. Since no one wished to
speak, she closed the hearing.
Moved by Larson, seconded by Davis, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 12-407 approving final
plans and specifications and awarding contract for the 2011/12 Collector Street Paving
Improvements (Ridgewood Avenue) to Con-Struct, Inc., of Ames, Iowa, in the amount of
$495,400.00.
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Roll Call Vote: 4-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
HEARING ON 2011/12 STORM SEWER SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS (COUNTRY CLUB
BOULEVARD): The public hearing was opened by the Mayor. There was no one wishing to speak,
and the hearing was closed.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Wacha, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 12-408 approving final
plans and specifications and awarding contract for the 2011/12 Storm Sewer system
Improvements (Country Club Boulevard) to Keller Excavating, Inc., of Boone, Iowa, in the
amount of $45,924.50.
Roll Call Vote: 4-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
HEARING ON 2012/13 COLLECTOR STREET PAVING IMPROVEMENTS
(MEADOWLANE AVENUE): The Mayor opened the public hearing and closed same after no
one came forward to speak.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Wacha, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 12-409 approving final
plans and specifications and awarding contract for the 2012/13 Collector Street Paving
Improvements (Meadowlane Avenue) to Con-Struct, Inc., of Ames, Iowa, in the amount of
$698,559.80.
Roll Call Vote: 4-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
ORDINANCE ADOPTING NEW PARKING REQUIREMENT FOR ALL RETAIL SALES:
Moved by Davis, seconded by Larson, to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO.
4120 repealing current parking requirements for general retail sales and services, retail and
shopping centers of any size, major retail and shopping centers, and grocery stores of any size
and adopt a new parking requirement of one space per 300 square feet of building floor area for
all retail sales.
Roll Call Vote: 4-0. Ordinance declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Director of Water and Pollution Control John Dunn briefed the Council
on the condition of the City’s water supply. He indicated that the aquifers are very dry, and are
down about 7½ inches. Signs of stress are being seen throughout the City, and the rivers are
going dry. He reported that ground levels are dropping about 6 inches to one foot a week. He
further reported that the City is pumping out about nine million gallons of water a day.
Mr. Dunn indicated that staff has set the pump at Ada Hayden Heritage Park so that the City is
ready to maintain the pool of water above the low head dam in the South Skunk River. He
further indicated that while we have not started to pump water into the river as yet, it will most
likely occur within the next week. This will be the first time that the City has ever pumped
water from the quarry.
Mr. Dunn reported that, at this time, there are no mandatory water restrictions in place.
However, the City is asking for voluntary cut-backs in water usage. Mr. Dunn said that he will
be providing a written status update to the Council.
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Moved by Wacha, seconded by Orazem, to refer to staff the letter from Bill Talbot requesting
a zoning text amendment.
Vote on Motion: 4-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Larson, requesting that staff provide a written response to Council
regarding the letter from Dan Levi, on behalf of the Deery Brothers, regarding the City’s current
ordinance for exterior parking lot lighting requirements.
Vote on Motion: 4-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Ex officio Sawyer Baker reported on enrollment predictions at Iowa State University.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Davis to adjourn the meeting at 9:13 p.m.
_______________________________________________________________________
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk Ann H. Campbell, Mayor
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Jill L. Ripperger, Recording Secretary