HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - Special Meeting of the Ames City Council 03/23/2010MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL, SPECIAL
MEETING OF THE AMES AREA
METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE,
AND REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA MARCH 23, 2010
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
The Special Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order at 5:30 p.m. on March 23, 2010,
in the City Council Chambers in City Hall, 515 Clark Avenue, pursuant to law with Mayor Ann
Campbell presiding and the following Council members present: Davis, Goodman, Mahayni,
Orazem, and Wacha. Council Member Larson and ex officio Member Keppy were absent.
STAFF REPORT ON WATER AND SEWER RATES: Water and Pollution Control Director
John Dunn gave a presentation on the need for increases in water and sewer rates in order to
provide the revenue necessary to support the planned operating and capital budgets. Both
utilities are facing significant expenses in the coming years. The proposed projects are to address
the need to provide increased water and wastewater capacity, the need to respond to new and
anticipated regulatory requirements, and the need to reinvest in the infrastructure of the two
utilities.
National trends in water and sewer rates were reviewed by Director Dunn. Comparisons were
given for cities in Iowa with populations over 10,000. Mr. Dunn stated that Ames’ average
water rate increase from 2003 - 2009 was 11.7% while the state-wide median increase during
that time period was 31.7%. Ames’ sewer rate median increase from 2003 - 2009 was 19.1%;
the state-wide median increase was 44.9%.
Previous City Council guidance given on rates was reviewed: (1) Maintain a 10% operating
reserve (not counting capital expenses) and (2) Rate increases should be done with smaller
percentage increases on a more frequent basis, as opposed to larger increases on a less frequent
basis.
Mr. Dunn detailed specific revenue needs. Staff is proposing the following rate increases for
water: FY 2010/11: 10%; FY 2011/12: 10%; FY 2012/13: 12%; and FY 2013/14: 12%.
Proposed rate increases for the sewer utility are FY 2010/11: 9%; FY 2011/12: 9%; FY 2012/13:
10%; and FY 2013/14: 10%. Options to arrive at the needed revenue increases were outlined and
a summary of the impacts of those options was given. Pros and cons of each option were listed
by Mr. Dunn. Staff is recommending “across-the board” percent increases for both the water and
sewer utilities.
Future rate comparisons were shown. On the drinking-water side, for 600 cf, the median bill in
Ames in 2013 would be $26.52/month, and the statewide median bill would be $21.88/month.
In 2013, the sewer utility bill would be $23.91/month in Ames, and the statewide median bill
would be $26.67. Examples of total utility bills for customers in the median residential,
moderate use residential, small commercial use, moderate commercial use, and large
commercial use customers were given.
Mr. Dunn advised that it is anticipated that an ordinance increasing the water and sewer rates
by 10% and 9%, respectively, would be presented to the City Council at its first meeting in
April. Second and third readings and adoption would need to occur so that the increased rates
would be effective for usage on and after June 1, 2010 (for bills mailed on or after July 1, 2010).
Chuck Winkleblack, 105 S. 16th Street, Ames, stated that multi-family units that have one water
meter pay higher water rates for the exact same type of building that has separate meters for each
unit. It is his belief that having one meter for multi-family units saves the City money, both in
reading the meter and billing. He requested that the rate be adjusted for multi-family units
having one meter to the residential rate or at least be put “on the same playing field” as the same
type of buildings with multiple meters.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Mahayni, to direct the City Attorney to draft rate increase
ordinances for the water and sewer utilities, as recommended by staff.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The meeting recessed at 6:50 p.m. and reconvened at 6:55 p.m.
AMES AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION (AAMPO)
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE MEETING
The Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization Transportation Policy Committee met at
6:55 p.m. on the 23rd day of March, 2010, in the City Council Chambers in City Hall, 515 Clark
Avenue, pursuant to law with the following voting members present: Campbell, Davis, Goodman,
Mahayni, Orazem, and Wacha. Also present was Mike Clayton, representing the Iowa Department
of Transportation. Voting Members Anders, Clinton, Larson, and O’Brien were absent.
2011 DRAFT TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM (TPWP): Public Works
Director John Joiner stated that the Fiscal Year 2011 TPWP includes several elements to ensure
an integrated transportation system. This year, it will be back to a more traditional program with
usual transportation activities. Transit Director Sheri Kyras said that the transit planning projects
are pretty much the same every year.
Council Member Wacha asked Ms. Kyras to explain how the special transit studies came about.
Ms. Kyas said that the Transit Board completed a Transit Feasibility Study in 2007; seven
different corridors in the Ames area were analyzed to see where new or additional services were
needed. Out of that Study, one of the corridors that had a lot of growth was the Orange Route
(from Iowa State Center to Campus), and it was recommended that a Bus Rapid Transit System
be explored. There was enough ridership along that Orange Route to justify a more-enhanced
transit service in that corridor. A grant was applied for and received from the Federal Transit
Administration, and an Analysis Study for Bus Rapid Transit was performed. However, due to
other priorities, the project has been put on hold. The Ames/Des Moines Corridor Study is also
on hold, due to both transit agencies having higher priorities at this time..
Moved by Wacha, seconded by Davis, to approve the draft 2011 TPWP and set May 25, 2010,
as the date of public hearing.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
2011-2014 DRAFT TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (TIP): Director
Joiner said the Program shows one street project and one bike/shared-use path per year. It also
includes annual support for the SUDAS program, the federal aid component of the Pavement
Management System, and lays out the transit projects. The street project proposed for FY 2011
is on Ash from Mortensen Parkway to Knapp, and the trail project is the final piece of the
Skunk River Trail (from Inis Grove Park to Bloomington Road). Stimulus funding will be used
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to cover the portion from Hunziker Youth Sports Complex to the South River Valley Park.
On the Transit side, Ms. Kyras said this represents all the grants that will be requested for state
and federal funding over the next four years. The projects are already listed in CyRide’s
operating or capital budget, but they also have to be included in the TIP.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Goodman, to approve the draft 2011-2014 TIP and set May 25,
2010, as the date of public hearing.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
2011 DRAFT PASSENGER TRANSPORTATION DEVELOPMENT PLAN (PTDP): Sheri
Kyras, Transit Director, described the PTDP as an annual document required of Metropolitan
Planning Organizations by the federal government that must be submitted to the Iowa
Department of Transportation. According to Ms. Kyras, this year’s document is a little different
due to a change in the process; the AAMPO is required only to update the Plan this year. Ms.
Kyras said there are several areas that must be covered: documentation of the process in
collaboration with the Human Service agencies and transportation, list of recent development
that might affect CyRide’s capability to pay for identified needs, and the recommendation
projects.
Moved by Mahayni, seconded by Wacha, to approve the final 2011 PTDP Update for
submission to Iowa Department of Transportation and Federal Transit Administration.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
AAMPO ANNUAL SELF-CERTIFICATION: Director Joiner said that this document verifies
that the AAMPO is following the planning regulations set by the federal government.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Wacha, to approve the AAMPO Annual Self-Certification.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Davis, to adjourn the AAMPO Transportation Policy
Committee meeting at 7:04 p.m.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
The regular meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order at 7:04 p.m. on March 23, 2010,
in the City Council Chambers in City Hall, 515 Clark Avenue, pursuant to law with Mayor Ann
Campbell presiding and the following Council members present: Davis, Goodman, Mahayni,
Orazem, and Wacha. Council Member Larson and ex officio Member Keppy were absent.
PROCLAMATIONS: Mayor Campbell proclaimed March 25, 2010, as Claim Ames! Day as part
of the 2010 Census promotion. Accepting the Proclamation was City of Ames Public Relations
Officer Susan Gwiasda.
April 2010 was proclaimed as Good Neighbor Emergency Assistance Month by Mayor
Campbell. Good Neighbor representatives Mike Fritz, Director; Kathy Hanson, President; and
Tim Gossett, Immediate Past-President, accepted the Proclamation.
CONSENT AGENDA: Pulled from the Consent Agenda for separate discussion were Items No.
7 and 13, at the request of Council Member Orazem, and Item No. 8, at the request of Council
Member Wacha.
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Moved by Goodman, seconded by Davis, to approve the following items on the Consent
Agenda:
1.Motion approving payment of claims
2.Motion approving minutes of the Regular Meeting of March 2, 2010, and Special Meeting of
March 9, 2010
3.Motion approving Report of Contract Change Orders for February 16-28, 2010
4.Motion approving renewal of the following beer permits, wine permits, and liquor licenses:
a.Class C Liquor - Café Northwest, 114 Des Moines Avenue
b.Class C Beer and B Wine - Kum & Go #200, 4510 Mortensen
c.Class C Liquor - Ge’Angelo’s, 829 Wheeler Street, Suite 9
d.Class E Liquor, C Beer and B Wine - Wal-Mart Store #749, 3015 Grand Avenue
e.Class E Liquor, C Beer and B Wine - Campustown Liquor, 218 Welch Avenue Suite 3
f.Class C Beer and B Wine - Kum & Go #227, 2108 Isaac Newton Drive
5.RESOLUTION NO. 10-090 approving corrective amendment to Municipal Code, Appendix G -
Fire Lane Designations
6.RESOLUTION NO. 10-091 approving appointment of Daniel Brown to Human Relations
Commission – Investigative & Conciliation Officers
7.RESOLUTION NO. 10-092 approving 2010/11 Neighborhood Improvement Program grants
8.RESOLUTION NO. 10-093 approving Intergovernmental Agreement for Household Hazardous
Materials Collection
9.RESOLUTION NO. 10-095 approving preliminary plans and specifications for 2009/10 CyRide
Route Pavement Improvements (Knapp Street and Ash Avenue); setting April 21, 2010, as bid
due date and April 27, 2010, as date of public hearing
10.RESOLUTION NO. 10-096 approving preliminary plans and specifications for Shared-Use Path
System Expansion (Christopher Gartner Park to Ames Middle School); setting April 21, 2010,
as bid due date and April 27, 2010, as date of public hearing
11.RESOLUTION NO. 10-097 approving preliminary plans and specifications for 2010/11 WPC
Clarifier Painting Project; setting April 15, 2010, as bid due date and April 27, 2010, as date of
public hearing
12.RESOLUTION NO. 10-098 approving contract and bond for 2009/10 Water System
Improvements (Water Service Transfers)
13.RESOLUTION NO. 10-099 approving contract and bond for 2009/10 Water System
Improvements (Duff Avenue Water Main Replacement)
14.RESOLUTION NO. 10-100 approving renewal of contract with RESCO of Ankeny, Iowa, for
Electric Distribution Transformers from April 1, 2010, to March 31, 2011
15.RESOLUTION NO. 10-101 approving Change Order to Professional Legal Services Agreement
with BrownWinick for 161-kV Tie Line
16.RESOLUTION NO. 10-102 approving Change Orders 1, 2, and 3 for Federal Stimulus Program
Project: Lincoln Way (Hickory Drive to 475 feet east of Marshall Avenue)
17.RESOLUTION NO. 10-103 approving reduction in retention amount for 2009 Downtown
Pavement Improvements (Kellogg Avenue)
18.RESOLUTION NO. 10-104 accepting completion of City Hall Doors Replacement Project
19.RESOLUTION NO. 10-105 accepting final completion of S. Dayton Avenue Improvements –
Divisions I & II
20.RESOLUTION NO. 10-106 accepting final completion of Federal Stimulus Program Project:
Skunk River Trail (South River Valley Park to Carr Pool)
21.RESOLUTION NO. 10-107 accepting final completion of Resource Recovery Plant Conveyor
Belt Replacement
22.RESOLUTION NO. 10-108 accepting completion of 2008/09 Lime Sludge Disposal Operation
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23.RESOLUTION NO. 10-109 approving Plat of Survey for property located at 520 Grand Avenue
24.RESOLUTION NO. 10-110 approving Major Final Plat for Somerset Subdivision, 24th Addition
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolutions declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
POWER PLANT PRECIPITATOR WIRE REPLACEMENT PROJECT: Council Member
Orazem asked for details on why staff was now requesting that all bids be rejected. Electric
Services Director Donald Kom explained that, as part of the City’s Purchasing Policies, the
contractor is required to provide a Performance Bond. The contractor, Environmental
Maintenance Services (EMS) of Johnston City, Tennessee, requested three delays in providing
that Bond, which were granted. The City gave EMS until February 10, 2010, to provide the
Bond, which it has not done.
According to Mr. Kom, the second low proposal of $99,344 is very close to the $100,000 formal
bid threshold. City Attorney Doug Marek explained that, per Iowa Code, any public
improvement bid with an overall project cost of $100,000 or more must be bid as a formal sealed
bid. Any change order affecting the amount of the second low proposal could risk the overall
project cost exceeding that threshold. Mr. Kom said that staff is not confident that this project
could avoid any change orders, and as a result, is recommending that all bids be rejected so that
a formal process of sealed bids may be undertaken.
City Attorney Marek further explained that a Performance and Payment Bond is required of any
contractor who is awarded a contract above $25,000. A Bid Bond is also required that
guarantees that the contractor will accept the contract and be able to provide a Performance
Bond. The Bid Bond must be at least 5% of the contract amount. For this project, the City
offered the contract to EMS, but they declined it because they could not provide a Performance
Bond. The City does have the authority to force them to forfeit their Bid Bond if the Council so
directs. Mr. Marek said that the reason for the Bid Bond is so that time and resources are not
spent evaluating the bid only to have it withdrawn.
Moved by Mahayni, seconded by Orazem, to reject bids for the Power Plant Precipitator Wire
Replacement Project.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
SUPPLEMENT NO. 2010-2 TO THE MUNICIPAL CODE: Council Member Wacha asked for
an explanation of what was included in the Supplement. Attorney Marek explained that the City
has chosen to update its Municipal Code quarterly. In the Supplement, all ordinances that have
passed during that time are incorporated into the Code. The Supplement in question includes
Ordinances 4020 through 4025.
Moved by Wacha, seconded by Davis, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 10-089 adopting
Supplement No. 2010-2 to the Municipal Code.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
INTERMODAL FACILITY CONCEPTUAL DESIGN CONCEPT: Noting that federal
funding received for the transit hub was $8.4 million instead of the requested $39 million,
Council Member Orazem asked for assurance that parking would be included in the concept.
Transit Director Kyras said the concept is vague because the process is just beginning; the first
step is to hire an architect. After that, meetings involving, Iowa State University, the City, and
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CyRide will occur in an attempt to determine how to go from a $39 million project to one
costing $8.4 million. Ms. Kyras noted that the discussions to date have indicated that parking
is the No. 1 priority. She pointed out that this is a Transit project, and as such, must include
some transit component. According to Ms. Kyas, it is hoped that there will be a second phase
with a financing package that will allow the larger facility to be built.
Moved by Orazem, seconded by Davis, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 10-094 approving the
Intermodal Facility Conceptual Design Contract with Neumann Monson in an amount not to
exceed $68,500.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
PUBLIC FORUM: Richard Deyo, 505 Eighth Street, #2, Ames, suggested that the Mayor
appoint other people as “Mayor for a Day” in an attempt to get people registered for the Census.
He shared what he would do if he were to be appointed “Mayor for a Day.”
PRESENTATION BY AMES FOUNDATION ON PLANS TO BEAUTIFY DOWNTOWN:
Ames Foundation President Joyce Vegge explained that the Ames Foundation is comprised of
18 volunteers, who serve three-year terms. It is the mission of the Foundation to be a catalyst
for connecting community dollars that have been gifted to community projects that enhance
Ames. According to Ms. Vegge, the Foundation has assisted with fund-raising for many
projects, including the welcome signs on East 13th Street and University Avenue, the Crescendo
artwork installed on the north side of City Hall, the Dog Park, the Veterans’ Memorial, the
greenspace in front of the Power Plant, and the restoration of Bandshell Park.
Ms. Vegge explained that the Foundation’s next venture is a City-wide beautification project.
She said that this project was not only about streetscaping, but also about igniting community
pride, making Ames more economically-vibrant, and making the community more inviting to
visitors. According to Ms. Vegge, to make it happen, the financial generosity of Ames citizenry
will be needed. The support of City staff to water the landscaping will also be necessary.
It was explained by Ms. Vegge that this project would be multi-faceted, involving several
different areas of Ames; however, the Foundation would like to start in the Main Street Cultural
District. Attention was directed to a brochure that had been provided to the Council showing
concepts prepared by Country Landscapes. It was noted by Ms. Vegge that the signs shown in
the brochure are very expensive and not part of Phase I. The Foundation plans to kick-off its
fund-raising for this project on March 24. Ms. Vegge asked for the Council’s “blessing.”
Council Member Wacha asked for more information on what looked to be walkways in the
brochure. Jim Mason, representing Country Landscapes, explained that the pictures contained
in the brochure were concepts only; however, the paver pattern shown is similar to the pattern
used at Kellogg and Main. He explained that the trees on the east side (at the former location of
Munn Lumber) are planned to soften the view of the Power Plant.
Moved by Orazem, seconded by Goodman, to endorse this Project.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Council Member Mahayni recommended that Mayor Campbell write a letter to the Ames
Foundation expressing the Council’s appreciation and solid support for the effort.
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SPECIAL CLASS C LIQUOR LICENSE FOR LUCULLAN’S ITALIAN GRILL: Moved
by Davis, seconded by Goodman, to approve a new Special Class C Liquor License for
Lucullan’s Italian Grill, 400 Main Street.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
CLASS C LIQUOR LICENSE FOR EL AZTECA: Moved by Mahayni, seconded by Davis,
to approve a new Class C Liquor License for El Azteca, 2727 Stange Road.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
CLASS C LIQUOR LICENSE FOR LEGEND’S AMERICAN GRILLE: Moved by Davis,
seconded by Goodman, to approve a new Class C Liquor License for Legend’s American Grille,
119 Stanton Avenue, Suite 701.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
5-DAY CLASS C LIQUOR LICENSE FOR GATEWAY HOTEL & CONFERENCE
CENTER AT THE ISU ALUMNI CENTER: Moved by Goodman, seconded by Mahayni, to
approve a new 5-Day Class C Liquor License for Gateway Hotel & Conference Center at the
ISU Alumni Center.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
GREEK WEEK 2010: Jordan Utoff, 311 Ash Avenue, Ames, made several requests on behalf of
the Greek Week Central Committee. Kevin Peyton, 311 Ash Avenue, Ames, and Alex Ryan, 201
Gray Avenue, Ames, were also present. Mr. Peyton advised that notification would be made to
the residents of the South Campus Neighborhood to make them aware of the events and street
closures.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Davis, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 10-111 approving
closure of portions of Sunset Drive, Ash Avenue, Gray Avenue, Greeley Street, and Lynn
Avenue on April 10, 2010, from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Davis, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 10-112 approving
suspension of parking regulations for portions of Gray Avenue, Greeley Street, Pearson Avenue,
Lynn Avenue, and Sunset Drive on April 10, 2010, from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
MARY GREELEY MEDICAL CENTER HOPE RUN: Andrea Hammes-Dodge, representing
Mary Greeley Medical Center and Coordinator of the Hope Run, explained that this was the
tenth annual run. After receiving feedback from past participants, they were changing routes this
year in an effort to be more attractive to runners; thus, raising more money for the Hospice
House. According to Ms. Hammes-Dodge, Mary Greeley Fest is held at Bandshell Park, and
the Run is held in conjunction with that festival; they wanted to keep the Downtown as the
focus.
Noting that there had been opposition to the closure of Northwestern Avenue by Wheatsfield’s,
Ms. Hammes-Dodge advised that they had changed the time of the Run to impact Wheatsfield’s
business hours by only one hour. Assistant City Manager Sheila Lundt said that the details had
been worked out for this Run to address Wheatsfield’s concerns; however, discussions will
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continue on other special events, e.g., 4th of July Parade and Midnight Madness, that have
necessitated the closure of Northwestern Avenue in the past..
Moved by Davis, seconded by Wacha, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 10-119 approving closure
of portions of Fifth Street, Pearle Avenue, Sixth Street, University Boulevard, and Haber Road
for road race, on June 19, 2010, from 5:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Wacha, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 10-120 approving closure
of parking spaces on portions of Fifth Street and Pearle Avenue on June 19, 2010, from 5:30 to
10:30 a.m.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Wacha, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 10-121 approving closure
of portions of Main Street and Northwestern Avenue on June 19, 2010, from 8:00 a.m. to
approximately 9:30 a.m.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Wacha, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 10-122 approving closure
of East Fifth Street for Mary Greeley Fest, from 5:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Wacha, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 10-123 approving waiver
of fee for Road Race Permit.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
“MAYORS OF AMES” PROJECT: Council Member Mahayni gave the history behind the
request to honor the past Mayors of Ames.
Peggy Baer, 1810 Waterbury Circle, Ames, representing the Ames Historical Society, explained
the progress made on this project to date. She asked for direction from the Council as to its
specific expectation. Council Member Mahayni suggested that pictures of past Mayors be
placed in City Hall, perhaps in the Council Chambers. He also would like to see biographies of
each Mayor placed in a book. Ms. Baer explained that they do not have pictures of all the past
Mayors and may have difficulty getting them. Council Member Davis suggested that a request
be made of Ames residents for pictures of past mayors.
Ms. Baer said it was her understanding, after this discussion, that the Council desired that a
picture of each past mayor with a short biographical sketch be mounted in City Hall, and if
enough information is found, it could be placed in a book. She said that volunteers from the
Ames Historical Society will get started on the research necessary to complete this project. Ms.
Baer reminded that Ames’ sesquicentennial is coming up in 2014; this project might be a part
of that celebration.
UPDATE ON WINTER SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL COSTS: Public Works Director
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Joiner advised that as of March 1, 2010, Ames had had 55” of snow; after last Friday, it is close
to 60." This winter, the City recorded 17 snow/ice events, which is fairly normal; however, the
length of those events was out of the norm. Five of those events necessitated crews to be on the
streets for more than 24 hours straight. One of those events was for 64 hours straight, and the
longest event had crews on the roads for 84 hours straight.
From a budget standpoint, as of March 1, 2010, the Department was approximately $200,000
over-budget for snow/ice control. Projecting from March 1 to the end of the fiscal year (June
30), it is estimated that it will be $400,000 over-budget for snow/ice control. That would include
repairs to the fleet and equipment, an additional salt purchase, and the cold-patch material used
to repair potholes. In May, final amendments will be presented to the City Council. To offset
the additional costs, other operational programs (street maintenance, street cleaning) will be
reviewed to see if some cuts can be made. If additional cuts are needed, capital improvement
plan projects will be looked at to see if some can be deferred.
Mr. Joiner said staff is recommending that the City purchase an additional 700,000 tons of salt,
which would replenish the salt dome for next year. It is beneficial to purchase the salt at this
time because this year’s contract price would still be valid; it is anticipated that the price will
increase $5 to $10/ton next year.
Dave Cole, Operations Manager, noted that the City was guaranteed that its current coal
purchase price would remain until April 1, 2010.
Moved by Davis, seconded by Wacha, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 10-113 approving the
purchase of additional salt.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
PURCHASE OF WHEEL LOADERS: Fleet Services Director Paul Hinderaker described three
options available to the Council for the purchase of two wheel loaders. The options take into
account not only the cost of the machine, but also the carbon footprint. The first option was to
purchase the low-net evaluated cost, which is the lowest cost and includes the cost of fuel. The
second option is to consider the carbon footprint produced by the loaders. To get the machines
that have the lowest carbon footprint would not be the machines costing the least. The third
option is a combination: buy one machine that is more fuel-efficient and the other machine
would be the one costing the lowest price.
Council Member Wacha asked what progress was being made towards the Council’s goal of
reducing the City’s carbon footprint by 15% by 2014. Mr. Hinderaker said that information was
not available at this time. Council Member Orazem said it was important for the City to
determine where it was most cost-effective to lower its carbon footprint; in this case, the
difference in the cost in machines would be $40,000.
Mr. Hinderaker pointed out that the bids are valid for 30 days. Council Member Goodman said
that it would be beneficial to know which vehicles can decrease the carbon emissions the most
for the City’s investment.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Orazem, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 10-114 awarding a
contract to Murphy Tractor & Equipment, Des Moines, Iowa, for two wheel loaders as follows:
One John Deere 624K Wheel Loader, as specified for Resource Recovery Plant, in the amount
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of $132,500 with a guaranteed buy-back of $89,000 after two years; and one John Deere 624K
wheel loader, as specified for the Coal Yard Operation, in the amount of $128,000 with a
guaranteed buy-back of $89,000 after four years.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Wacha, to direct staff to look at future fleet purchases to give
the Council an indication of the best vehicles to buy that yield the lowest carbon footprint.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON REZONING OF PROPERTY AT 615, 725, AND 729 EAST LINCOLN WAY:
Mayor Campbell opened the public hearing. No one requested to speak, and the Mayor closed
the hearing.
Planning and Housing Director Steve Osguthorpe summarized the rezoning proposal. He noted
that the Council had recently amended the Land Use Policy Plan to facilitate this rezone.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Davis, to pass on first reading an ordinance rezoning property
at 615 and 725 East Lincoln Way from General Industrial (GI) to Highway-Oriented
Commercial (HOC) and property at 725 and 729 East Lincoln Way from Highway-Oriented
Commercial (HOC) to General Industrial (GI).
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Mahayni, seconded by Goodman, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 10-115 approving the
Minor Final Plat for Friedrich’s Commercial Subdivision, 2nd Addition, with the following
stipulations:
1.That the Final Plat be approved only in conjunction with approval of the rezoning of
properties at 615, 725, and 729 East Lincoln Way and that the zoning boundaries follow the
platted lot lines between Lot 1 and Lot 3 and between Lot 2 and Lot 3.
2.That, prior to recording the Final Plat with Story County, a section of sidewalk
(approximately 20 feet in length) be constructed by the property owner at the end of the
existing sidewalk, which will be oriented to the north for access to the building at 615 E.
Lincoln Way. If the property owner chooses not to construct the sidewalk at this time,
financial security in an amount sufficient to cover the cost of installation shall be provided
to the City prior to recording the Final Plat.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
HEARING ON ZONING ORDINANCE TEXT AMENDMENT PERTAINING TO GARAGE
PARKING MAXIMUMS FOR SINGLE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS: The public
hearing was opened by the Mayor and closed after no one came forward to speak.
The proposed zoning text amendment was explained by Director Osguthorpe.
Moved by Mahayni, seconded by Davis, to pass on first reading an ordinance making a zoning
text amendment pertaining to garage parking maximums for single- and two-family dwellings.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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HEARING ON ZONING ORDINANCE TEXT AMENDMENT TO DEFINE BEDROOM
AND LIVINGROOM FOR PURPOSES OF CALCULATING PARKING REQUIREMENTS:
The public hearing was opened by Mayor Campbell. She closed same after no one asked to
speak.
According to Director Osguthorpe, parking requirements are based upon the number of
bedrooms in a unit. However, the Zoning Code contains no definition of what constitutes a
bedroom; an administrative interpretation has had to be made in the past. Additionally, because
the proposed definition of a bedroom references living rooms, a definition of living room is also
proposed. According to Mr. Osguthorpe, living rooms are referenced in the definition of
bedrooms to ensure that they are not misconstrued as bedrooms when calculating parking
requirements.
Mr. Osguthorpe advised that the Planning & Zoning Commission, by a vote of 5-2,
recommended approval of the proposed language adding the definitions of bedroom and living
room to Section 29.201 of the Municipal Code.
Council Member Orazem asked whether parking should be based on occupancy. City Attorney
Marek noted that occupancy is linked to the number of bedrooms. City Manager Schainker
advised that the proposed ordinance is actually a clarification of an existing requirement.
Moved by Wacha, seconded by Goodman, to pass on first reading an ordinance making a zoning
ordinance text amendment to define bedroom and livingroom for the purposes of calculating
parking requirements.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON 2008/09 DOWNTOWN STREET PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS
(BURNETT AVENUE): Mayor Campbell opened the public hearing. The hearing was closed as
no one came forward to provide input.
Moved by Mahayni, seconded by Davis, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 10-116 approving final
plans and specifications and awarding a contract to Con-Struct, Inc., of Ames, Iowa, in the
amount of $620,646.08.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
HEARING ON UNIT NO. 8 WATERWALL INSTALLATION FOR POWER PLANT: The
public hearing was opened by the Mayor. She closed it after no one came forward to speak.
Council Member Orazem asked if the Morehead bid was considered compliant. Electric
Services Director Kom said that staff is still analyzing the bids and is not at the point to make
a recommendation. It is not necessarily clear that the second-lowest bidder is completely
compliant.
Moved by Mahayni, seconded by Davis, to accept the report of bids and delay award of contract.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
ORDINANCE CREATING NEW CONVENIENCE GENERAL SERVICE (CGS) DISTRICT:
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Davis, to pass on second reading an ordinance creating a new
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Convenience General Service (CGS) District.
Roll Call Vote: 4-1. Voting aye: Davis, Goodman, Orazem, Wacha. Voting nay: Mahayni..
Motion declared carried.
ORDINANCE ADDING CGS TO LANDSCAPING AND SCREENING SECTION: Moved
by Goodman, seconded by Davis, to pass on second reading an ordinance adding CGS to
landscaping and screening section.
Roll Call Vote: 4-1. Voting aye: Davis, Goodman, Orazem, Wacha. Voting nay: Mahayni..
Motion declared carried.
ORDINANCE ADDING CGS TO OFF-STREET PARKING SECTION: Moved by Goodman,
seconded by Wacha, to pass on second reading an ordinance adding CGS to the Off-Street
Parking section.
Roll Call Vote: 4-1. Voting aye: Davis, Goodman, Orazem, Wacha. Voting nay: Mahayni..
Motion declared carried.
ORDINANCE ADDING CGS TO BASE ZONE LISTING: Moved by Goodman, seconded
by Davis, to pass on second reading an ordinance adding CGS to the Base Zone listing.
Roll Call Vote: 4-1. Voting aye: Davis, Goodman, Orazem, Wacha. Voting nay: Mahayni..
Motion declared carried.
ORDINANCE ADDING CGS TO COMMERCIAL BASE ZONES: Moved by Goodman,
seconded by Davis, to pass on second reading an ordinance adding CGS to the Commercial Base
Zones.
Roll Call Vote: 4-1. Voting aye: Davis, Goodman, Orazem, Wacha. Voting nay: Mahayni..
Motion declared carried.
TURNAROUNDS FOR FIRE TRUCKS IN SUBDIVISIONS: Moved by Mahayni, seconded by
Davis, to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO. 4027 related to turnarounds for fire
trucks in subdivisions.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Ordinance declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
UPDATE ON WATER TREATMENT PLANT PROJECT: Water and Pollution Control
Director Dunn provided the history behind the City’s intent to commence the Water Treatment Plant
project.
Steve Duvall, Assistant Director of Water and Pollution Control, showed a Planning Form that
listed specific actions needed to be taken to acquire land for the new Water Treatment Plant.
He highlighted the steps needed to be taken by the City Council. It is hoped that there will be
a voluntary swap of property.
COMMENTS: Moved by Orazem, seconded by Wacha, to refer to staff the letter dated March 12,
2010, from Attorney Franklin Feilmeyer regarding Fieldstone development.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Mahayni, to direct the City Manager to apply for the EPA
Smart Growth Grant.
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City Manager Schainker noted that the EPA had identified its priorities for proposed projects.
He believes that last year’s suggestion (that the City request experts be brought in to review the
LUPP, Zoning Ordinance, and Subdivision Ordinance) might not fall into those priorities. It was
concurred that Mr. Schainker would submit a Letter of Interest to EPA for that project.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Wacha, seconded by Davis, to refer to staff the letter dated March 9, 2010, from Bill
Peard, Mediacom.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Wacha, seconded by Goodman, to refer to staff the letter from Heartland Senior
Services.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
CLOSED SESSION: Moved by Mahayni, seconded by Davis, to hold closed sessions as
provided by Section 21.5(1)c and Section 21.5(j), Code of Iowa, to discuss strategy with counsel
in matters presently in litigation and concerning real estate transactions for Water and Electric
facilities, respectively.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The City Council meeting reconvened in Regular Session.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Davis, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 10-117 approving a
settlement agreement and release in City of Ames vs. Cotter Turbine Services, et al.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Davis, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 10-118 setting the date
of public hearing for May 11, 2010, for land acquisition related to new Water Treatment Plant.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Davis to adjourn the meeting at 10:00 p.m.
________________________________________________________________________
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk Ann H. Campbell, Mayor
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