HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council 04/12/2005 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA APRIL 12, 2005
The Ames City Council met in regular session at 5:30 p.m. on the 12th day of April, 2005, in the
City Council Chambers in City Hall, 515 Clark Avenue, pursuant to law with Mayor Tedesco
presiding and the following Council members present: Cross, Goodhue, Goodman, Mahayni, Vegge,
and Wirth.
NEIGHBORHOOD SUMMIT: Mayor Tedesco explained that one of the City Council’s top goals
for 2005 is to strengthen neighborhoods. He stated that the Council had directed staff to
schedule this round-table discussion with representatives of the registered neighborhood
associations and campus groups from the dorms, Panhellenic Council, and Interfraternity
Council. The purpose of the meeting was to learn more about the organizational structure of
these groups, to understand the issues of importance to the various groups, and to identify
common themes that the Council can work on to assist these groups.
Neighborhood Association representatives attending were: Jean Hagert-Dow, Westbend; Debbie
Lee, Oak/Riverside; Pat Brown, Westside; Dale Brentnall, Northeast Ames; Sharon Guber, State
Avenue; Fern Kupfer, South Campustown Area; Jack Riney, Prairie View; Jeanette
Bohnenkamp, Meeker; Holly Fuchs, Sue Barry, and Hogan Martin, Brookside; Jim Popken,
North Old Town; Herb Harmison, Meadow Glen Road; Charles Habing and Les Holland,
Allenview; Ed Lewis, Stone Brooke; Terry Lewis, Onion Creek; Ryan Doll, Towers Residence;
Andy Brown, Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Council; Stacy Ross and Cindy Deppong,
Emanon; Catherine Scott and Erv Klaas, Grand-Summit; Dan Rice, Old Town; John McGuire,
Friendship; and Max Porter, King-Am.
Planner Jeff Benson gave a status report on the neighborhood associations. He emphasized the
importance of communication within each neighborhood.
Police Chief Loras Jaeger advised that at least once a year, the Police Department would like to
be invited to talk with individual neighborhood associations. Community Resource Officer
Chris Crippen was also introduced.
Participants shared how their individual Association worked, how they initially began, how they
communicate, activities within their Association, and issues germane to their neighborhoods.
Many representatives stated that communication within their Association was a challenge and
shared other common concerns; e.g., traffic, speeding, sustaining their neighborhoods.
Council Member Mahayni said that he was interested in hearing from neighborhoods on issues
before they escalate. He also pointed out that there are areas of the City that are not represented
by a neighborhood association, so it is important for the City’s web site to contain relevant
information. Council Members stated that they welcome contact, via e-mail, phone, etc., from
all residents.
The meeting recessed at 6:58 p.m. and reconvened at 7:09 p.m.
PRESENTATION OF HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION ANNUAL REPORT: Assistant
City Manager Sheila Lundt presented the Annual Report, which covered the period from January
through December 2004. Also present were Mary Jo Mattila and Sue Ellen Tuttle, members of
the Commission. Ms. Lundt reported on the 2004 FACES Festival and the progress of
“Breaking Down the Barriers.” Other educational activities undertaken were briefly explained.
Elements of a case investigation and a summary of the cases for 2004 were given. The 2005/06
goals set by the Human Relations Commission were shared with the Mayor and City Council.
CONSENT AGENDA: The Mayor pulled, from the Consent Agenda, Items No. 15, the request for
a new Class C Liquor License for Chasers, and No. 19, the Agreement between the City and the
Ames Farmers Market. Council Member Goodhue asked to pull, from the Consent Agenda, Item
No. 22 pertaining to the Agreement for Financial Participation in connection with the
Ames/Story County Homebuyer Assistance Affordable Housing Program.
Moved by Wirth, seconded by Vegge, to approve the following items on the Consent Agenda:
1.Motion approving payment of claims
2.Motion approving minutes of the Special and Regular Meetings of March 22, 2005, and Special
Meetings of March 29, 2005, and April 8, 2005
3.Motion approving certification of civil service applicants
4.Motion approving bronze plaque wording for Ames Circle of Arts
5.Motion directing City Attorney to draft an ordinance to prohibit parking at all times on both sides
of Seagrave Boulevard, the east side of Mayfield Drive, and on the west side of Walton Drive
6.Motion directing City Attorney to draft an ordinance to prohibit parking at all times on the south
side of Lakeside Drive and on the north side of Westwind Drive
7.Motion directing City Attorney to draft an ordinance to prohibit parking at all times on the north
side of Beckley Street and on the east side of Hastings Avenue
8.Requests from Ames Jaycees - “Friday at Five: Ames on the Half Shell”:
a.Motion approving six-month Class B Beer Permit and Outdoor Service Area on Clark
Avenue between Fifth and Sixth Streets and the adjacent public area between the street and
City Hall, pending receipt of background checks
b.RESOLUTION NO. 05-134 approving closure of Clark Avenue between Fifth and Sixth
Streets on Fridays, 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., from June 10 to July 29, with a rain date of
August 5
c.Motion approving blanket temporary obstruction permit for the area between Fifth and Sixth
Streets in front of City Hall up to the west boundary of the sidewalk on the east side of Clark
Avenue
d.RESOLUTION NO. 05-135 authorizing blanket street vending license and waiver of
vending fees
e.RESOLUTION NO. 05-136 authorizing expenditure from Electric Fund to provide
electricity for the events
9.M otion app rov ing request fo r n ew C lass B Beer Perm it & Outdoor Service Privilege for Am es
Slow pitch Softball at North River V alley Park, pen ding Parks & Recreation C om mission approv al
of 2005 Concession Agreement
10 .M otion app rov ing request for new C lass B B eer P erm it & O utdoor Service Privilege for Am es
Slow pitch S oftball at South R iver V alley P ark, pend ing Parks & R ecreation Com m ission approv al
of 2005 Concession Agreement
11.M o tio n a p proving request for new Class C Liquor License for GeA ngelo's, 823 Wheeler Street,
Su ite 9
12.M otion approving request for permanent transfer of Cazador M exican Restaurant's Class C Liquor
License from 127 D otson D rive to 3605 Linco ln Way
13.RESOLUTION NO. 05-137 approving appointment of Chris Cooklin to fill vacancy on the
Human Relations Commission - Hearing Officers
1 4.R ESOLU TIO N NO. 05 -13 8 ap prov ing am en d m en t to the P erso nn el Po licies p ertainin g to Fam ily
M edical Leave A ct
15.RESOLUTION NO. 05-139 approving request from Octagon Center for the Arts to waive
payment of an invoice
16.RESOLU TIO N NO. 05-141 approving IDO T Agreement for joint participation in U. S. 69
Intersection Improv em ents (19 0 Street to D awes D rive)th
17 .R ESOLU TIO N NO. 05 -14 2 ap proving engineering serv ic e s con tract with U R A of Des M oines,
Iowa, in an amount not to exceed $5 9,210.24 for preparation of the Intelligent Transportation
System Architecture Study
18.RESOLUTION NO. 05-144 approving preliminary plans and specifications for Diesel Fire Pump
Installation at the Power Plant; setting April 18, 2005, as bid due date and April 26, 2005, as date
of public hearing
1 9.R ESOLU TIO N N O . 0 5-14 5 app rov ing prelimina ry p lans an d s pecifications for the 20 05 /06 Slurry
Seal Program; setting May 2, 2005, as bid due date and M ay 10, 2005, as date of public hearing
2 0.RESOLUTION NO. 05-14 6 appro ving preliminary plan s an d sp ecification s for the Wessex Sanitary
Sew er Intake R ehab ilitation Program ; setting M ay 4, 2005 , as bid d ue date and M ay 10 , 20 05 , as
date of public hearing
2 1.R ESOLU TIO N NO. 05 -14 7 ap prov ing prelim inary plan s an d sp ecification s for the 20 05 /06 Sto rm
Sew er Intake Rehabilitation Program ; setting M ay 4, 2005 , as bid d ue date and M ay 10 , 20 05 , as
date of public hearing
2 2.R ESOLU TIO N NO. 0 5-14 8 ap prov ing a co n tract for refurb ish m en t of Fire A p paratus E ngin e 1 to
Pierce Midwest Refurbishment Center in the amount of $73,183
23.RESOLUTION NO. 05-149 approving renewal option for 2005/06 Hauling and Related Services
for the Resource Recovery Plant to Waste Management of Ames in the amount of $.3101 per
mile per ton
24.RESOLUTION NO. 05-150 approving contract extension for 2005/06 hauling of ferrous metals
for the Resource Recovery Plant to Waste Management of Ames, Iowa, in the amount of $.0803
per mile per ton
25.RESOLUTION NO. 05-151 approving Change Order No. 2 to Casey Industrial Inc.’s contract
for Combustion Turbine Generator Project, Contract No. 11 – Mechanical Installation
26.RESOLUTION NO. 05-152 approving contract and bond for 2005/06 CyRide Route
Reconstruction Project
27.RESOLUTION NO. 05-153 approving contract and bond for 2005/06 CDBG Curb Accessibility
Program
28.RESOLUTION NO. 05-154 approving contract and bond for West Lincoln Way Widening
Project
29.RESOLUTION NO. 05-155 approving contract and bond for 2005/06 Concrete Pavement
Reconstruction Project
30.RESOLUTION NO. 05-156 approving contract and bond for 2005/06 Collector Street
Rehabilitation Program
31.RESOLUTION NO. 05-157 accepting completion of Combustion Turbine Generator Project,
Contract No. 8 – Fuel-Forwarding Equipment for Electric Services
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolutions declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
CHASERS, 2401 CHAMBERLAIN STREET: City staff had been made aware that Scott Davis,
the sole owner of Chasers, had tax liens filed against him arising out of sales taxes due from his
former corporation on three separate occasions in 2004. Fatguy, Inc., was a business that had
a liquor license under the name “Big Shots,” 2401 Chamberlain, in which Mr. Davis had partial
ownership. A copy of the Certificate of Release of Tax Liens evidencing the payment of sales
taxes had been delivered this date to the City Clerk’s Office, and copies were placed around the
dais.
Scott Davis, 2401 Chamberlain, explained the reasons behind the tax liens. He advised that all
sales taxes due had now been paid. Mr. Davis indicated that he had not been the one responsible
for payment of the sales taxes for his former corporation, Fat Guy, Inc. He had been made aware
of the liens in mid-March 2005 and attempted to hold all partners responsible for the debt. When
that was not successful, Mr. Davis paid the outstanding sales taxes. He has now hired an
accountant to handle the finances for his new business.
City Attorney John Klaus advised that the release of the tax liens still did not meet the
requirement for “good moral character.” He made the Council aware that the sales taxes had not
been paid for the quarters ending June 2004 and September 2004 until today.
Moved by Goodhue, seconded by Vegge, to approve a new Class C Liquor License for Chasers,
2401 Chamberlain Street, for a six-month period.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
AMES FARMERS MARKET AGREEMENT: A revised letter from the Ames Farmers Market
Association received today by the City Clerk’s Office was distributed around the dais. The
Association requested permission to hold Thursday and Saturday markets on Main Street
between Clark and Burnett (on the east side of the Wells Fargo and Members First Community
Credit Union driveways) from May 7 thru October 29, 2005. The decision to change the location
back to that area resulted from working with the Main Street Cultural District; Tune-In to Main
Street concerts will be held in Tom Evans Plaza on Thursdays. A letter of support from the Main
Street Cultural District was also received this date and placed around the dais.
The Mayor explained that an agreement needed to be prepared and signed.
Moved by Mahayni, seconded by Cross, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 05-140 directing City staff
to work with the Ames Farmers Market Association to prepare an agreement and direct the
Mayor to sign same.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
AGREEMENTS FOR FINANCIAL PARTICIPATION IN CONNECTION WITH THE
AMES/STORY COUNTY HOMEBUYER ASSISTANCE AFFORDABLE HOUSING
PROGRAM: Moved by Goodman, seconded by Mahayni, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 05-143
approving Agreements for Financial Participation in connection with the Ames/Story County
Homebuyer Assistance Affordable Housing Program.
Roll Call Vote: 4-0-2. Voting aye: Goodman, Mahayni, Vegge, Wirth. Voting nay: None.
Abstaining: Cross, Goodhue. Resolution declared adopted, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
PUBLIC FORUM: John McGuire, 1202 Northwestern Avenue, Ames, drew the Council’s
attention to a front-page article appearing in today’s edition of the Ames Tribune concerning the
possible closing of Northwood and Roosevelt Elementary Schools. He suggested that there
might be other alternatives; residents do not have to simply accept the closures or take it as a
change that happens. Mr. McGuire pointed out that these closures would have an impact on a
larger segment of the community. He asked if the City Council, Ames Chamber of Commerce
or Economic Development Commission, or realtors’ organizations had been contacted as these
school closures would have direct impact on the City’s economy and culture, the vitality of the
affected neighborhoods, property values, and quality of life for the residents. Mr. McGuire asked
the City Council to suggest to the Ames School Board to consider other alternatives.
HEARING ON POWER AUTOTRANSFORMERS FOR ELECTRIC TIE LINE PROJECT:
Mayor Tedesco opened the public hearing. There being no one wishing to speak, the Mayor
closed the hearing.
Moved by Goodhue, seconded by Mahayni, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 05-158 approving final plans
and specifications and awarding a contract to Waukesha Electric Systems of Waukesha, Wisconsin, in
the amount of $2,839,708.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made
a portion of these minutes.
HEARING ON INSTALLATION OF FIBER OPTIC CABLE FOR THE ELECTRIC
SERVICES WIDE-AREA NETWORK: The Mayor opened the public hearing and closed same
after no one wished to speak.
Moved by Cross, seconded by Vegge, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 05-159 approving final plans
and specifications and awarding a contract to Gaylord Construction of Fort Madison, Iowa, in
the amount of $359,727.10.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
HEARING ON TEXT AMENDMENT TO THE ZONING ORDINANCE THAT
ESTABLISHES A NEW ZONING DISTRICT TO BE CALLED “CONVENIENCE
COMMERCIAL NODE:” Planner Jeff Benson showed a map that illustrated the approximate
locations of this proposed district. He described the characteristics that would make the
commercial use compatible with abutting residential uses. According to Mr. Benson, this new
zoning district would strengthen neighborhoods by providing for convenient commercial services
while, at the same time, encourage architectural and site design that could help make each
neighborhood distinctive. He indicated that development under this use type would be of a scale
and type that is commonly guided by the Minor Site Plan development review process, and the
proposed standards could be administered by staff. Mr. Benson advised that the unpredictability
of Major Site Plan review by the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council might
discourage this type of development.
Council Members Cross and Wirth asked how people would know that this type of development
was pending. Mr. Benson explained that the property to be developed in this manner would have
to be rezoned; that would require a hearing before the City Council.
Council Member Vegge pointed out that the standards indicated single buildings over 35,000
square feet would not be allowed; thus, most grocery stores would not be approved. Mr. Benson
replied that the ordinance could except grocery stores. He pointed out that the ordinance would
allow up to three buildings totaling no more than 100,000 square feet, so this did not preclude
having buildings over 35,000; it would limit the number of buildings in the commercial center
so that the square footage would not total over 100,000 square feet. Standards for hours of
operation were also discussed. There are no other areas in Ames that restrict hours of operation
for commercial businesses; however, this ordinance would not allow establishments to be open
to the public between the hours of Midnight and 6 AM.
The public hearing was opened by Mayor Tedesco.
Chuck Winkleblack, Hunziker & Associates, 105 S. 16 Street, Ames, indicated that the hoursth
of operation were too restrictive. He pointed out that Ames does have businesses that have shifts
of workers, some of whom get off work in the middle of the night. The developers also disagree
that temporary and/or seasonal commercial uses should be prohibited. Mr. Winkleblack said that
this zoning district would be the most restrictive development ordinance ever passed by the City
of Ames. He asked that hours of operation not be restricted. The developers prefer to leave
approval at the staff level. As developers, they would not allow uses that would be a detriment
to the residential market. Mr. Winkleblack stated that he was not qualified to speak about the
different levels of lighting and the impact on security.
David Maahs, Ames Chamber of Commerce, advised that local developers were brought together
to work with City staff on establishing the guidelines for convenience commercial development.
Mr. Maahs said the only issue where they disagree is on the hours of operation; they do not feel
that they should be restricted by the City.
Jim Popken, 920 Clark Avenue, Ames, said that allowing six islands at gas stations in a
neighborhood setting seemed a bit excessive. He would prefer that commercial buildings be no
larger than 25,000 square feet, excepting grocery stores. As a resident and a neighbor looking
at development, residents should have a means to address commercial development in their
neighborhood, so he is not in favor of staff approval.
Catherine Scott, 1510 Roosevelt, Ames, said that she was concerned about having large stores
in residential neighborhoods. She also felt that gas stations with six islands (to service 12
vehicles) was excessive. Ms. Scott preferred that seasonal uses be restricted.
Holly Fuchs, 806 Brookridge, Ames, advised that she was concerned about the hours of
operation. Lighting of commercial buildings concerned her; residents do not want to live by
establishments that are open 24 hours/day.
No one else requested to speak, and the public hearing was closed.
Moved by Goodman, seconded by Vegge, to amend the proposed ordinance by removing the
prohibition on temporary/seasonal uses.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Goodhue, seconded by Goodman, to amend the proposed ordinance by removing the
hours of operation restriction.
Council Member Wirth preferred to leave the restriction on hours of operation since the
commercial establishments would be located in residential areas.
Council Member Goodman pointed out that the commercial establishments would only be
allowed on arterial streets.
Roll Call Vote: 4-2. Voting aye: Cross, Goodhue, Goodman, Vegge. Voting nay: Mahayni,
Wirth. Motion declared carried.
Moved by Vegge, seconded by Goodman, to amend the proposed ordinance to limit commercial
building size to 25,000 square feet, except for grocery stores, which would be restricted to
35,000 square feet.
Roll Call Vote: 5-1. Voting aye: Cross, Goodman, Mahayni, Vegge, Wirth. Voting nay:
Goodhue. Motion declared carried.
Moved by Wirth, seconded by Mahayni, to amend the proposed ordinance to restrict the number
of fueling stations to eight (would service not more than eight vehicles at one time).
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
City Attorney John Klaus explained that because the ordinance was now changed from what was
originally prepared and on file in the City Clerk’s Office, the process needed to start over; a new
Legal Notice will need to be published.
HEARING ON REZONING OF PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE VICINITY OF
WOODVIEW DRIVE AND OAKWOOD ROAD FROM “A” (AGRICULTURAL) TO “RL”
(RESIDENTIAL LOW DENSITY): Mayor Tedesco opened the public hearing. No one wished
to speak, and the hearing was closed.
Council Member Goodhue left the meeting at 8:48 p.m.
Moved by Vegge, seconded by Cross, to pass on first reading an ordinance rezoning property
located in the vicinity of Woodview Drive and Oakwood Road from “A” (Agricultural) to “RL”
(Residential Low Density).
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Council Member Goodhue returned to the meeting at 8:50 p.m.
HEARING ON REZONING OF PROPERTY GENERALLY LOCATED ON THE WEST
SIDE OF CEDAR LANE APPROXIMATELY 620 FEET SOUTH OF OAKWOOD ROAD
FROM “A” (AGRICULTURAL) TO “FS-RL” (SUBURBAN RESIDENTIAL LOW
DENSITY) [RINGGENBERG PARK]: A letter was received in the City Clerk’s Office from
William B. Stoner, Jr., and Joyce E. Stoner, 2717 Oakwood Road, Ames, requesting that the City
Council consider a zoning classification that would allow development of the Ringgenberg Farm
in such a matter so as to respect the existing neighborhood along Oakwood Road, and at the
same time, provide for the appropriate density of the overall development. Also for the record,
Catherine Scott, 1510 Roosevelt, Ames, had provided to the City Clerk’s Office pictures of “big
house development” in Cincinnati, Ohio; those pictures were forwarded to the Mayor and City
Council.
The meeting recessed at 8:52 p.m. and reconvened at 8:55 p.m.
Director of Planning and Housing Matt Flynn stated that Items 41, 43, and 45 dealt with rezoning
of property, and Items 42, 44, and 46 a. and b. dealt with the Master Plan development of those
tracts of land. He advised that staff was recommending approval of the rezoning requests and
development proposals, as they were consistent with the Land Use Policy Plan and compatible
with surrounding land uses.
Mr. Flynn advised that the request to rezone the subject site from “A” (Agricultural) to “FS-RL”
(Suburban Residential Low Density) and the subsequent request to rezone from “FS-RL” to “F-
PRD” (Planned Residence District) involved approximately 96.22 acres and was generally
located on the west side of Cedar Lane. A total of 202 single-family detached lots are proposed,
which would create a net density of 3.81 units/acre.
The request to rezone approximately 21.24 acres located at the southwest corner of Cedar Lane
and Oakwood Road to RM” (Suburban Residential Medium Density) was specifically addressed
by Mr. Flynn. The subject site is located at the southwest corner of Cedar Lane and Oakwood
Road. A total of 210 dwelling units are proposed in 21 ten-unit buildings. He stated that there
would be a net density of 14.60 units per acre for the proposed development. Mr. Flynn advised
that no formal recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission accompanied the
staff report because the Commission voted 2-2 to recommend that the City Council approve the
rezoning request to “FS-RM.”
Scott Renaud and Ron Baker, Fox Engineering, 1601 Golden Aspen Drive, Ames, representing
the developers Friedrich Realty, explained the proposed development. He specifically addressed
the proposed “FS-RM” designation and the planned 210 dwelling units. The buildings would be
designed in the “big house” concept (each building looks similar to large single-family homes).
In addition to the residential buildings, the developer was proposing a clubhouse building with
a pool and a pond in the northeast corner of the site and a maintenance building/storm shelter in
the southwest corner of the site.
Mr. Renaud showed the plan for landscaping and buffers. The developers preferred to install the
bike path and landscaping (i.e., street trees) for the whole development right away even though
development of this entire parcel would take approximately ten years. According to Mr. Renaud,
the developers have accomplished a good transition from this proposed development to the
arterial street (Oakwood Road) due to the large front setback of the homesteads already in place
on the other side of Oakwood Road and the landscaping. Mr. Renaud advised that none of the
landscaping would be removed if Oakwood Road were expanded.
After being questioned by Council Member Goodman, Mr. Renaud advised that the village
concept was considered, but decided against due to site limitations, market limitations, design
limitations, and density requirements.
The hearings on Items 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, and 46 were opened by the Mayor.
Kim Townsend, 2609 Timberland Road, Ames, advised that the current residents of the subject
area believed that it was the responsibility of elected officials to protect current residents and that
responsibility must take precedence to their service to the developers. They did believe that
development was part of the future of Oakwood Road, but they wanted to help define the criteria
for development.
Ms. Townsend indicated what the current residents liked about the development proposal. She
also listed and detailed what they did not like, i.e., (1) the condos did not provide appropriate
transition, (2) there were too many condos (density was too high), (3) they had traffic concerns,
and (4) there was insufficient setback and not enough screen plantings.
According to Ms. Townsend, the Ringgenberg Farm is a Century Farm. The residents of the area
adjacent to the Ringgenberg Farm would like to see the existing corn crib and mature trees
preserved as part of Iowa’s agricultural history. The optimal solution, according to area
residents, would be larger lots with larger homes, at least a 60-foot setback from the proposed
34-foot road right-of-way, a buffer zone to include screen plantings, and a naturalized area with
a pond and other amenities. Ms. Townsend advised that, if part of the area were allowed to be
zoned “R-M,” current residents wanted to see at least a 60-foot setback from the proposed
expanded 34-foot road right-of-way, no more than 12-15 condo buildings, a buffer zone to
include more generous screen plantings along Oakwood Road, and a naturalized pond area, the
pool, and the clubhouse.
Beverly Madden, 2815 Oakwood Road, Ames, indicated that her family had lived in this
neighborhood for almost 30 years. She felt that the proposed condos would be an island
surrounded by single-family homes and ISU farmland; it would be a distinctively different land
use. Ms. Madden emphasized that, if the condos were approved, the current residents wanted
to see at least a 60-foot setback from the proposed 34-foot road right-of-way. She also indicated
that the proposed development of 210 dwelling units in 21 ten-unit buildings was much too
dense.
John Sams, 2314 Suncrest, Ames, said that his main concern over the proposed development was
the additional traffic that would be generated. He had been told that there would be a 300%
increase in traffic volume. He would prefer single-family residential development in this area.
Beverly Kruempel, 2519 Timberland Road, Ames, urged the City Council not to approve the
Medium-Density development. She was not opposed to the entire development proposal, just
the medium-density (condo units).
Warren Madden, 2815 Oakwood Road, Ames, advised that he was speaking as the Vice-
President of Business and Finance at Iowa State University (ISU). He pointed out that ISU
owned 2,650 acres of land to the south and to the west of this proposed project and planned to
continue major agricultural operations on this land for the next 50 years. A new dairy farm is
planned for this area, which is not conducive to residential development. Mr. Madden pointed
out that residential development would drastically increase the population in this area, and he
wanted to ensure that the people moving into this area were aware of ISU’s plans. He indicated
that the buffer zone was very important. Mr. Madden advised that Iowa State University also
must ensure that storm water run-off would be properly engineered and adequately managed for
any development in this area. He said that it was important for the City to provide a range of
different housing styles that could be marketed to faculty being recruited, and he did not believe
that the condos being proposed adequately addressed that need.
Ken Kruempel, 2519 Timberland Road, Ames, gave the history behind his neighborhood. It was
also his belief that if the Medium-Residential zoning were allowed, it would create an island of
multi-family units and not be characteristic of this neighborhood. He discussed right-of-way and
questioned where the plantings being proposed along Oakwood Road would be located; it
appeared to him that the plantings were located in the right-of-way, not on the developers’
property. Mr. Kruempel also questioned where the electric line would be located if Oakwood
Road were widened. He did not believe that the screen plantings would work because of the
location of the electric line. It was pointed out that the height dimension had not been given for
the “big house” development.
Dave Overmeyer, 2611 Woodview Drive, Ames, asked that the City not allow the condo units
to be built. He believed that it was the responsibility of the City to protect property values for
the current residents of this area.
Harold Crawford, 2319 Timberland Road, Ames, pointed out that there would be drainage
problems with this land, as evidenced by the amount of water left standing after the recent rains.
He also asked the Council to look at all the condo units currently in Ames and ask themselves
if more were needed.
Kurt Friedrich, Friedrich Iowa Realty, Sixth and Duff, Ames, indicated that they felt privileged
to have been allowed to purchase the Ringgenberg Farm for development. He pointed out that
if development were never allowed because of adjacent agricultural uses, Ames would be a no-
growth community. The developers have ensured that this proposal provided for a variety of
housing, ranges of prices, consistency of quality, aesthetics, trails, landscaping, and lots of
neighborhood amenities. Mr. Friedrich recognized that there was opposition to the Medium-
Residential development proposal; however, he hoped that they had dispelled any notion that this
was just another “rental project.” If the “R-M” development were not approved, the developers
must move forward with the single-family development; however, there would be no clubhouse
or pool, and landscaping would be more limited.
Staff was asked to address the discrepancy in density. Matt Flynn advised that the Ringgenberg
proposal calls for a gross density of 10.8 gross units/acre and Wessex was at approximately 9.9
gross units/acre.
Kurt Friedrich explained that the developers believed that the corn crib was not structurally safe;
they would be willing to give the corn crib to the neighborhood residents. The developers looked
at including the corn crib in green space; however, for safety reasons, they opted not to do that.
Pertaining to the mature trees in the area proposed for “R-M,” if that rezoning did not get
approved by the City Council, the offer to purchase that particular parcel of land would be void.
Don Wandling, 2601 Oakwood Road, Ames, advised that the Wessex development consisted of
294 units on 30 acres; the proposed condo development would be comprised of 210 units on 21.4
acres.
Council Member Goodhue indicated that he felt some “R-M” development would be suitable in
this proposed development, but it should be scaled-back. If that could not be worked out, Mr.
Goodhue indicated that he would not support rezoning any portion of the land to Medium-
Density Residential. Council Members Vegge and Mahayni concurred. Mr. Mahayni said he
believed that the proposed condominiums were attractive, but the subject site was not the right
place for them. Council Member Wirth agreed and stated that she would like to see the density
cut back by at least 50%.
Council Member Goodman asked what the future plans were for Oakwood Road. Matt Flynn
indicated that Oakwood Road was classified as a minor arterial; there currently are no major
traffic generators on either side, and it may not need improvement for a long time. Mr. Goodman
indicated that he did not feel this would be a good location for dense development if Oakwood
Road were not classified as a major arterial.
Acting Public Works Director John Joiner advised that Oakwood Road will serve as the
connector from County Line Road to South Duff; it is anticipated that 8,000 vehicles/day will
traverse the Road within the next 30 years.
Mayor Tedesco closed the public hearings after no one else wished to speak.
Moved by Wirth, seconded by Cross, to pass on first reading an ordinance rezoning property
generally located on the west side of Cedar Lane approximately 620 feet south of Oakwood Road
from “A” (Agricultural) to “FS-RL” (Suburban Residential Low Density) [Ringgenberg Park].
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried.
MASTER PLAN FOR PROPERTY GENERALLY LOCATED ON THE WEST SIDE OF
CEDAR LANE APPROXIMATELY 620 FEET SOUTH OF OAKWOOD ROAD
[RINGGENBERG PARK]: Moved by Vegge, seconded by Wirth, to adopt RESOLUTION
NO. 05-160 approving the Master Plan for property generally located on the west side of Cedar
Lane approximately 620 feet south of Oakwood Road (Ringgenberg Park), with stipulations, as
follows:
1.That the developer revise the Master Plan to meet the required setbacks of the FS-RL
Zoning District; and,
2.That the developer revise the Master Plan to illustrate sidewalks on both sides of all
streets.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried.
REZONING OF PROPERTY GENERALLY LOCATED ON THE WEST SIDE OF CEDAR
LANE APPROXIMATELY 620 FEET SOUTH OF OAKWOOD ROAD FROM “FS-RL”
(SUBURBAN RESIDENTIAL LOW DENSITY) TO “F-PRD” (PLANNED RESIDENCE
DISTRICT) [RINGGENBERG PARK]: Moved by Cross, seconded by Mahayni, to pass on first
reading an ordinance rezoning property generally located on the west side of Cedar Lane
approximately 620 feet south of Oakwood Road from “FS-RL” (Suburban Residential Low
Density) to “F-PRD” (Planned Residence District) [Ringgenberg Park].
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried.
MAJOR SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN TO ALLOW FOR PLANNED RESIDENCE
DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT FOR PROPERTY GENERALLY LOCATED ON THE WEST
SIDE OF CEDAR LANE APPROXIMATELY 620 FEET SOUTH OF OAKWOOD ROAD
(RINGGENBERG PARK): Moved by Cross, seconded by Vegge, to adopt RESOLUTION NO.
05-161 approving the Major Site Development Plan to allow for Planned Residence District
development for property generally located on the west side of Cedar Lane approximately 620
feet south of Oakwood Road (Ringgenberg Park), with stipulations as follows:
1.That the front-yard setback be reduced to 20 feet.
2.That the interior side-yard setback be reduced to five feet.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried.
REZONING OF PROPERTY LOCATED AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF
OAKWOOD ROAD AND CEDAR LANE FROM “A” (AGRICULTURAL) AND “RL”
(RESIDENTIAL LOW DENSITY) TO “FS-RM” (SUBURBAN RESIDENTIAL MEDIUM
DENSITY) [RINGGENBERG PARK]: Bob Friedrich, Jr., advised that the developers could look
at increasing the setback. They prefer not to decrease the number of units due to the cost of the
extra amenities (pool, clubhouse). He said that the developers may choose not to exercise their
option to purchase the parcel of land originally planned for the construction of the condominiums
if they are forced to reduce the number of units.
Moved by Mahayni, seconded by Cross, to deny the first passage of the ordinance rezoning
property located at the southwest corner of Oakwood Road and Cedar Lane from “A”
(Agricultural) and “RL” (Residential Low Density) to “FS-RM” (Suburban Residential Medium
Density).
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried.
Moved by Mahayni, seconded by Cross, to direct the staff to work with the developers and the
neighborhood to come up with a workable compromise.
Moved by Goodhue, seconded by Cross, to amend the motion to direct that the discussions center
around providing a 50- to 60-foot setback, additional buffer, and cutting the density by 40%.
Vote on Amendment: 3-3. Voting aye: Cross, Goodhue, Wirth. Voting nay: Goodman,
Mahayni, Vegge. Mayor voted aye to break the tie. Motion declared carried.
Vote on Motion, as Amended: 5-1. Voting aye: Cross, Goodhue, Mahayni, Vegge, Wirth.
Voting nay: Goodman. Motion declared carried.
MASTER PLAN FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF
OAKWOOD ROAD AND CEDAR LANE (RINGGENBERG PARK): This item became moot
due to the request to rezone to “R-M” not being approved.
PRELIMINARY PLAT: Moved by Goodhue, seconded by Cross, to adopt RESOLUTION NO.
05-163 approving the Preliminary Plat, subject to the following stipulations:
1.A Development Agreement shall be prepared and signed by the developers prior to placing
the first Final Plat for the Ringgenberg Park Subdivision on the City Council’s agenda for
action. This Agreement shall document the developer’s and the City’s responsibilities and
costs associated with the development of the Ringgenberg Park Subdivision. The
Developer’s Agreement will include, but not be limited to, the following:
a.The developer will dedicate, at no charge to the City, 17 feet of right-of-way for
Oakwood Road.
b.The developer and the City will negotiate a possible method for conveyance of an
additional 17 feet of right-of-way for Oakwood Road.
c.The developer will construct one additional lane on Oakwood Road and one
additional lane on Cedar Lane.
d.The developer will construct a bicycle path on the south side of Oakwood Road and
on the west side of Cedar Lane.
2.The developer will construct and dedicate all public improvements within the development
to City of Ames’ Urban Standards, as required, including: street paving, curb, gutter,
sidewalks, bicycle/pedestrian pathways, street lights, street trees, water main, sanitary
sewer main, and storm sewer improvements, prior to approval of the Final Plat, or execute
an Improvements Agreement to guarantee the completion of all public improvements and
provide security in the form of an Improvement Guarantee, as set forth in Section 23.409
of the Municipal Code.
3.No grading will be permitted on the site until construction plans are approved by the
Department of Public Works for all public infrastructure in each addition, including storm
water management facilities.
4.The developer will revise the Preliminary Plat to illustrate sidewalks on both sides of all
streets.
5.The developer will revise the Preliminary Plat to meet the required setbacks of the FS-RL
Zoning District.
6.A note will be placed on the Final Plat drawings indicating that no vehicular access will
be provided from Oakwood Road.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
RE-PRIORITIZATION OF CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN (CIP) FOR SOUTH 16TH
PAVING PROJECT: City Manager Steve Schainker reminded the City Council that the approved
Capital Improvements Plan included a project to pave South 16 Street and reconstruct theth
Skunk River bridge. It initially called for the City contributing $1,500,000 and the surrounding
property owners providing $3,000,000; however, after the CIP Workshop, it was reported that
the surrounding property owners would agree to provide $1,500,000, through assessments for
the project, rather than $3,000,000. In February, the City Council decided to approve the CIP
at the higher level of private contribution for $3 million; however, a number of Council members
requested that the staff provide possible changes that would offset the impact of this additional
$1.5 million obligation for the City should they decide to move ahead with this project.
Mr. Schainker described four options: (1) This Project could remain in the CIP with the City
contributing $3 million and the surrounding property owners contributing $1.5 million. This
approach would add to the City’s debt service costs by requiring the City to borrow an additional
$1.5 million. (2) This Project could remain in the CIP with the City contributing $3 million and
the surrounding property owners $1.5 million. Other projects in the CIP, such as the South 4th
Rehabilitation Project and the South Duff Improvement Project could be delayed or eliminated
to offset the additional debt service costs. (3) Eliminate the South 16 Paving and Bridge Projectth
from the CIP until the property owners agree to provide the $3 million of private support
originally planned for this Project. (4) Eliminate the South 16 Paving and Bridge Project basedth
on the position that motorists can rely on Highway 30 to move from Dayton Road to South Duff,
and the road will be paved gradually by the abutting property owners as the adjacent land is
developed. The City could then pay for the bridge replacement or create cul-de-sacs on both
sides of the bridge.
John Joiner advised that a Technical Memo from the consultant indicating estimated future
traffic volumes for this area should be received by next week.
Moved by Wirth, seconded by Mahayni, to table this issue until May 10, 2005.
Vote on Motion: 2-4. Voting aye: Mahayni, Wirth. Voting nay: Cross, Goodhue, Goodman,
Vegge. Motion failed.
Moved by Goodhue, seconded by Cross, to table this issue until April 26, 2005.
Vote on Motion: 3-3. Voting aye: Cross, Goodhue, Vegge. Voting nay: Goodman, Mahayni,
Wirth. Mayor voted aye to break the tie. Motion declared carried.
SKATE PARK TRAFFIC SAFETY OPTIONS: On February 15, 2005, the City Council
directed staff to report back with alternatives for making the area of the bike path around the
Skate Park safer. Acting Municipal Engineer Tracy Phares pointed out that staff had devised
eight alternatives, as follows:
1.Add curb to the existing pavement at a cost of $4,500
2.Construct break-away concrete bollards at a cost of $5,000
3.Install channelizing devices, such as tubular markers, at a cost of $1,300
4.Install signage stating, “No Parking,” and Type 2 or 3 Object Markers at a cost of $500
5.Construct a split-rail fence at a cost of $1,500
6.Relocate a portion of the existing shared-use path six feet south at a cost of $12,000
7.Relocate the shared-use path to be adjacent to the Skate Park structure at a cost of $28,000
8.Make no changes
Council Member Goodman pointed out that there had only been one reported complaint
regarding a conflict with bicycles and motorist drop-offs at the Skate Park; however, he felt it
still was a valid safety issue.
Moved by Wirth, seconded by Goodman, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 05-163 approving
Option 2 (construct break-away concrete bollards), with the funding to come from the Road Use
Tax fund.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
DISCUSSION ON SEWER RATE OPTIONS: At the March 29, 2005, Water and Sewer Rate
Workshop, staff presented background information on the rate-setting process and outlined
several alternatives for the Council to consider. The City Council requested information
regarding a fourth option of raising both the minimum bill and unit rate by 10%. The four
options to arrive at the Council-adopted $340,000 revenue increase were as follows: (1) Total
Increase from Minimum Bill; (2) Total Increase from Unit Rate; (3) Cost-of-Service Allocation;
and (4) Ten Percent Across-the-Board Increase.
Water and Pollution Control Director Tom Neumann presented a modification to Option 4 for
the City Council to consider, as follows: Rate changes would be implemented annually from July
1, 2005, through July 1, 2009. Beginning July 1, 2005, the minimum bill and the unit rate would
both be increased ten percent. Beginning July 1, 2006, thru July 1, 2009, the minimum bill
would be increased $0.30/month each year until it reaches $7.25/month on July 1, 2009. The
unit rate would remain at $1.55/100 cubic feet as adopted for July 1, 2005.
Moved by Cross, seconded by Goodman, to choose Option 4: Ten percent (10%) increase across
the board, which would provide the same percentage increase to all customers.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried.
ORDINANCE PROHIBITING PARKING AT ALL TIMES ON THE EAST SIDE OF
CEDAR LANE AND ON THE NORTH SIDE OF COTTONWOOD DRIVE: Moved by Wirth,
seconded by Goodhue, to pass on first reading an ordinance prohibiting parking at all times on
the east side of Cedar Lane and on the north side of Cottonwood Drive.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
ORDINANCE INCREASING THE COMPENSATION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY
COUNCIL: Moved by Goodhue, seconded by Wirth, to pass on second reading an ordinance
increasing the compensation of the Mayor and City Council.
Roll Call Vote: 5-1. Voting aye: Cross, Goodhue, Mahayni, Vegge, Wirth. Voting nay:
Goodman. Motion declared carried.
ORDINANCE TO RESCIND THE “NO PARKING 7:30 TO 9:30 AM ON SCHOOL DAYS”
PARKING RESTRICTIONS ON HAYES AVENUE: Moved by Vegge, seconded by Wirth, to
pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO. 3826 to rescind the “No Parking 7:30 to 9:30
AM on School Days” parking restrictions on Hayes Avenue.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Ordinance declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.
COMMENTS: Moved by Wirth, seconded by Goodhue, to refer to staff the letter from Tom Randall
dated April 7, 2005.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
ADJOURNMENT: 11:44 p.m.
_______________________________________________________________________
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk Ted Tedesco, Mayor