HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - Special Ames Conference Board Meeting 11/08/2005MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE AMES CONFERENCE BOARD
AND REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA NOVEMBER 8, 2005
SPECIAL AMES CONFERENCE BOARD MEETING
The special meeting of the Ames Conference Board was called to order by Chairman Ted Tedesco
at 5:30 p.m. on November 8, 2005. Present from the Ames City Council were Cross, Goodhue,
Goodman, Mahayni, Vegge, and Wirth. Ex officio Member Borich was also present. Story County
Board of Supervisors present were Clinton, Halliburton, and Toms. Representing the Ames School
Board were Cakerice and Johnston. Gilbert and United School Districts were not represented.
CITY ASSESSOR CANDIDATE REGISTER: Moved by Goodhue, seconded by Clinton, to
accept the Candidate Register.
Vote on Motion: 3-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
RECRUITMENT PLAN FOR CITY ASSESSOR : City Manager Steve Schainker advised that
the Conference Board makes the appointment of the City Assessor. He said that the City of
Ames’ Human Resources Department has agreed to handle the recruitment for that position. Mr.
Schainker stated that more direction was needed from the Board regarding the minimum
qualifications of the new Assessor.
Ms. Johnston suggested that “or related degree” be added to the minimum qualifications for
formal education. Mr. Clinton pointed out that having a Bachelor’s degree had not been a
requirement for those holding similar positions in the state of Iowa. Mr. Toms recommended that
a certain number of years’ experience could be substituted for a Bachelor’s degree.
Moved by Goodhue, seconded by Halliburton, that the minimum qualifications include:
1. Bachelor’s degree in Business, Public Administration, Real Estate, Finance, or related field
with three (3) to five (5) years’ experience as an Assessor or Deputy Assessor OR a
minimum of ten (10) years’ experience as an Assessor or Deputy Assessor
2. Minimum five (5) years’ general supervisory experience
Vote on Motion: 3-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Supervisor Clinton offered that preferred qualifications, above the minimum, could include
extensive Iowa experience or additional certifications beyond what are required by law.
Mr. Schainker asked the Board to discuss the likely salary range for the position. Mr. Toms
suggested that the range be $75,000 to $85,000. Mr. Clinton agreed, stating that that type of
salary range was needed to be competitive.
Moved by Halliburton, seconded by Goodman, to have the opening salary range for this position
be $70,000 to $85,000.
Vote on Motion: 3-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The Board was asked by Mr. Schainker who would conduct the various steps leading up to the
appointment of the new City Assessor and approve the terms and conditions of his/her
employment.
Moved by Cross, seconded by Clinton, that the Mini-Board be charged with bringing five
finalists to the Conference Board for consideration.
Vote on Motion: 3-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Mr. Schainker asked the Conference Board to decide on the process for interviewing finalists.
Mr. Clinton said that he was concerned about using the same process as the City of Ames uses
to select Department Heads. The candidates should have the initiative to find out more about
the “parent operation” (the location, the specific duties, etc.). He has not heard much interest
from people wanting to provide input as to whom is selected for this position; he would like to
have the process streamlined and expenses kept to a minimum. Mr. Schainker believed that the
public should have the opportunity to meet the candidate in a public forum format. Mr.
Schainker also recommended that certain expenses, e.g., travel costs, lodging, and meals be paid
for the finalists. Mr. Clinton disagreed, stating that the candidate should come on his or her own
initiative and expense to preview the town and the position. Council Members Cross, Mahayni,
and Vegge stated their beliefs that the public forum portion of the process was very important
and should be included. Mr. Vegge also said that he felt it was important to “market the town.”
Moved by Cross, seconded by Johnston, that the interview process include the psychological
evaluation, public forum, meetings with key City and County staff members, interaction with
staff from the City Assessor’s Office, formal interview with Conference Board, tours of the
community; and, directing the Mini-Board to clarify how the recruitment budget would be
accommodated within the Assessor’s Office budget.
Mr. Schainker clarified that, if the averages per employee are followed as estimated by staff in
terms of costs of travel, meals, and psychological testing, an additional $4,200 would be needed.
That amount plus the $1,200 spent to date would total $5,400. However, beginning in
November, there will be salary savings, as long as the position is open, of approximately
$8,500/month.
Vote on Motion: 3-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moving expenses were also briefly discussed, they will be negotiated at the time of hiring.
Moved by Cross, seconded by Toms, to schedule a Conference Board meeting for November 22,
2005, to discuss compensation of the Deputy Assessor and the Mini-Board’s recommendation
for reallocation of funds to accommodate the recruitment budget.
Vote on Motion: 3-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
ADJOURNMENT: 6:22 p.m.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
The regular meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor Ted Tedesco at 6:30
p.m. on November 8, 2005, in the City Council Chambers in City Hall, 515 Clark Avenue. Present
from the Ames City Council were Cross, Goodhue, Goodman, Mahayni, Vegge, and Wirth. Also
present was Ex officio Member Borich.
PROCLAMATION FOR WORLD TOWN PLANNING DAY: Mayor Tedesco proclaimed
November 8, 2005, as World Town Planning Day. Accepting the Proclamation was Victoria
Feilmeyer, Chairperson of the Ames Planning & Zoning Commission; Planning and Housing
Director Matt Flynn and Planners Ray Anderson, Dominic Roberge, and Ryan Heiland.
PROCLAMATION FOR NATIONAL HUNGER AND HOMELESSNESS AWARENESS
WEEK: November 13-19, 2005, was proclaimed as National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness
Week by Mayor Tedesco. The Proclamation was accepted by Vic Moss, Director of the
Emergency Residence Project, Cheryl Kimble, Sieglindi Prior, Pastor Chuck Kelsey, and Scott
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Walker, representing a few of the organizations that directly deal with hunger and homelessness
in the Ames community. City Housing Coordinator Vanessa Baker Latimer invited the public
to participate with the City of Ames and other organizations in “Skip-a-Meal” Day to be held
at City Hall Community Center Gym on November 15, 2005, from 11 AM to 1 PM. On that
date, instead of purchasing lunch, people are encouraged to drop by the Gym and donate money,
non-perishable food, clothing, and/or time to one or more of the agencies that care for the hungry
and homeless in the community.
CONSENT AGENDA: Moved by Goodhue, seconded by Cross, to approve the following items
on the Consent Agenda:
1. Motion approving payment of claims
2. Motion approving minutes of the special meeting of October 13, 2005, and regular meeting of
October 25, 2005
3. Motion approving certification of civil service applicants
4.Motion approving renewal of the following beer permits and liquor licenses:
a. Class C Liquor - 212 Main Pub & Grill, 212 Main Street
b. Class B Liquor - Comfort Suites, 2609 Elwood Drive
c. Class C Beer & Class C Wine - The Keg Shop, 218 Welch Avenue, Ste. 3
d. Class C Beer - Kum & Go #113, 2801 E. 13th Street
e. Class C Beer - Kum & Go #214, 111 Duff Avenue
f. Class C Beer - Kum & Go #215, 4506 Lincoln Way
g. Class C Beer - Kum & Go #216, 203 Welch Avenue
h. Class C Beer - Kwik Shop #550, 715 - 24th Street
i. Class C Liquor - Legends American Grill, 119 Stanton Avenue, Ste. 70
j. Class C Beer - That’s Entertainment, 129 Lincoln Way
k. Class C Beer - Wheatsfield Grocery Cooperative, 413 Douglas Avenue
5.Motion approving new Class B Native Wine Permit for Kitchen, Bath & Home, 201 Main Street,
pending receipt of background checks
6. Motion approving new Class C Beer Permit for Swift Stop #6, 125 Sixth Street, pending receipt
of background check
7. Motion approving new Class C Beer Permit for Swift Stop #7, 2700 Lincoln Way, pending
receipt of background checks
8. Motion directing City Attorney to prepare ordinance revising parking regulations on Stange
Road and Oxford Avenue
9. RESOLUTION NO. 05-446 approving Iowa DOT Agreement for Traffic Safety Improvement
Funding of the West Lincoln Way Intersection Improvements Program (Franklin
Avenue/Lincoln Way)
10. RESOLUTION NO. 05-447 approving Engineering Services Agreement for South Duff Avenue
Area Storm Sewer Reconstruction
11.Requests from Main Street Cultural District:
a. Motion approving placement of red flags on City light poles from November 17 through
December 31, 2005, as stipulated in the letter dated October 31
b. RESOLUTION NO. 05-448 approving request for City to provide and waive fees for
electricity for holiday lighting on downtown buildings from November 17 through
December 31, 2005
c. RESOLUTION NO. 05-449 approving/denying request to suspend parking enforcement
for the Central Business District all day on Saturdays and from 5-6:00 p.m. on Monday
thru Friday from November 17 through December 31 and all day on Friday, November
25, 2005
12. RESOLUTION NO. 05-450 authorizing a temporary staffing increase for the Legal
Department
13. RESOLUTION NO. 05-451 approving Temporary Obstruction Permit to close Stange Road
from Blankenberg Road to Greensboro Drive for a 24-hour period over the weekend of
November 19, 2005, to allow work to be done on gas mains
14. RESOLUTION NO. 05-452 awarding contract for four police patrol cars to George White
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Chevrolet of Ames, Iowa, in the total amount of $74,472
15. Northridge Heights Subdivision, 9th Addition:
a. RESOLUTION NO. 05-453 approving Major Final Plat
b. RESOLUTION NO. 05-454 accepting partial completion of public improvements and
reducing financial security
16. RESOLUTION NO. 05-455 accepting partial completion of public improvements for South
Gateway Development Phase 1B - South Dayton Avenue and reducing financial security
17. RESOLUTION NO. 05-456 accepting completion of public improvements for Bloomington
Heights West, 1st Addition, and releasing financial security
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolutions declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
PUBLIC FORUM: Catherine Scott, 1510 Roosevelt, Ames, requested that when anyone speaks,
they speak directly into the microphone.
Ms. Scott also proposed a program called, “The Idea that All of Ames is Talking About.” A
topic would be chosen every three to six months, neighborhood associations would be asked
to discuss it, public meetings would be held, the City’s website could be set up to take
comments, and possibly some restaurants would host the program live. The program would
allow for interested citizens to get together and discuss a topic of interest to all of Ames.
HEARING ON DEVELOPMENT OF PLANNED REGIONAL COMMERCIAL AREA
LOCATED NORTHEAST AND SOUTHEAST OF INTERSTATE 35 AND EAST 13TH
STREET INTERCHANGE: Mayor Tedesco announced that a written protest had been filed by
Gerald N. Johnson, 52588 - 180th Street, Gilbert, Iowa, alleging that he owned more than 20%
of the parcel of the property adjoining the exterior boundaries for which the change in rezoning
is proposed. The Mayor advised that the area to be rezoned is now one site, not two sites, and
therefore, Mr. Johnson did not own an adequate amount of land (20%) to validate the protest.
City Attorney John Klaus reviewed the provisions of Section 414.5, Code of Iowa. He advised
that Mr. Johnson’s protest was not valid because the land he owns does not constitute 20% of
the land area within 200 feet of the exterior perimeter of the area to be rezoned. Therefore, a
super majority (five votes) would not be required to approve the measure.
Planning & Housing Director Matt Flynn reviewed the rezoning request, giving a chronological
summary of the actions taken to date. He explained that if the rezoning were approved, a
Master Plan must be filed by Wolford Development, reviewed, and approved by the City
Council. Approval of a subdivision will also be required as will Major Site Development Plans.
Lastly, Building Permits must be applied for and issued. The key provisions of the Zoning
Agreement were also highlighted by Mr. Flynn. He indicated that the City supports the
rezoning; it is consistent with the Land Use Policy Plan (LUPP). Staff believes that there are
no other suitable locations for major Regional Commercial expansion within the City; there will
be economic benefits to the City in terms of increased property values and construction jobs,
at an absolute minimum. There will be expanded retail opportunities for the citizens of Ames
and others.
Bill Bartine, Belin Law Firm, 2000 Financial Center, Des Moines, Iowa, representing Wolford
Development Options, LLC, presented the application for rezoning. Also present were Bucky
Wolford and Chuck Davis from Wolford Development. Mr. Bartine advised that Wolford
Development had agreed to shoulder a lot of the infrastructure burden to serve the property
across the Interstate and to support future commercial and industrial development on the east
side of the Interstate. He pointed out that they had worked with the Steering Committee to
develop the O-GNE Overlay District; there was a substantial amount of control given to the
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City upon the adoption of that Ordinance. Mr. Bartine stated that, as part of that process,
Wolford Development agreed to change an enclosed mall to a lifestyle center; that was a
recommendation from the Steering Committee. A lot of time has been spent negotiating the
Zoning Agreement. Mr. Bartine advised that he had never been involved in a document where
there was no economic development or tax-increment financing (TIF) involved.
Mr. Bartine made a clarification regarding Appendix E, the Conceptual Site Plan, to the
Agreement. He stated that the picture portion of the document was absolutely correct; however,
the version attached to the document originally provided to the Mayor and City Council had
been superseded. The important difference was to the Lifestyle Center data; it now states that
there would be two major anchors of a minimum of 160,000 square feet new to the Ames
market, new minor anchors of a minimum of 80,000 square feet, and consist of a total of
498,000 minimum gross building area. The corrected Appendix E complies with the Zoning
Agreement. The Mayor interjected that the Council had been provided with the correct
Appendix E.
Mr. Bartine summarized the development proposal, which would institute a Lifestyle Center
in the northeast quadrant and a Power Center of a minimum of 300,000 square feet (at the
developer’s option) in the southeast quadrant. The “East Barilla Site,” comprised of
approximately 55 acres east of the Power Center site, will be designated for future
development. Approximately 323 acres is the area proposed for rezoning to both Regional
Commercial and O-GNE. All of the land is classified in the LUPP as Regional Commercial.
The Conceptual Site Plan was also explained by Mr. Bartine.
It was clarified by Mr. Bartine that, under the terms of the Agreement, the developer must close
on all the land in question by December 1, 2007, or the City could repeal or change the
Rezoning Ordinance, and the developer shall have no cause of action against the City. He also
stated that the area north of E. 13th Street (the Lifestyle Center) has to comply with financing
requirements and leasing requirements under the Agreement. If the south side is developed,
there are additional requirements for leasing and financing; this is at the developer’s discretion.
The developer will be the property owner, as provided in the Agreement.
Mayor Tedesco opened the public hearing.
Catherine Scott, 1510 Roosevelt Avenue, Ames, representing Ames Smart Growth, reviewed
a letter provided to the Council in opposition to the rezoning. She asked the City Council to
reject the proposal because it would cost the City and cause them to do “double-planning” for
the next two years. Ames Smart Growth believes that there will be costs to the City from this
proposal, and it is possible that they would exceed the tax benefit. They felt that City staff went
out of their way to accommodate the schedule of Wolford Development in negotiating the terms
of the Zoning Agreement. Ms. Scott pointed out that Wolford Development is now asking for
a deadline of December 1, 2007, to purchase the land and obtain leases and construction
financing. According to Ms. Scott, Wolford Development hopes to complete the construction
of a shopping center in Arizona in the Fall of 2007, and she thought it might be best for the City
to extend the purchase/lease deadline until December 1, 2009, to see how that project worked
out. Ms. Scott cautioned that there are a significant number of outlot parcels in the Conceptual
Site Plan; they are located next to the street, and those would give the first impression of the
development. She said that granting the rezoning would be like giving Mr. Wolford a “hunting
license” to sign up retailers and urged the Council to consider if there is anything out there “to
be hunted” and how it would affect the balance of nature in the current Ames retail
environment.
Jim Murdock, 1510 Roosevelt Avenue, Ames, said that if the proposed development is
approved, it should at least do what its supporters wanted it to do – people who support this
development want certain stores. Wolford Development has made no announcement of any
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potential leases, claiming that they cannot obtain leases until the land had been rezoned. Mr.
Murdock said supporters also wanted certain tax benefits; however, the current version of the
Zoning Agreement has reduced the size so that Building Permits would be granted when
Wolford Development has commitments for only 329,000 square feet with 80,000 square feet
new to Ames, and the Power Center is not required at all. He felt that the sales tax expectations
based on the 2003 market study by Strategic Edge assumed a development of 700,000 square
feet in the mall and 470,000 square feet in the Power Center. That study specifically stated that
those figures were based on the synergy of the entire development and should not be divided
into parts. Mr. Murdock was not pleased that the current version of the Zoning Agreement
redefined retail to include office space, which does not bring in any sales tax revenue. He asked
that the City Council discuss those points and give reasons for their decisions.
Gerald N. Johnson advised that he was the abutting land owner to the north most affected by
this development and was concerned about trash drying up and/or burying Ketelsen Marsh or
his farm and mosquitos from the Marsh. He asked what the penalties would be for not meeting
the requirements to protect the Marsh. Mr. Johnson said he was particularly concerned about
the potential of paving 570th to the north from the proposed mall. He believed that he could be
assessed as much as $100,000 if 570th was paved. Mr. Johnson said that if he protects the Marsh
with a buffer of 600 feet, it only leaves him approximately 440' x 440'. It was also the belief of
Mr. Johnson that all prior testimony at the LUPP hearings and discussions on the Overlay
Ordinance should be part of this record. Mayor Tedesco advised that County Engineer Bob
Sperry as well as the Story County Board of Supervisors had confirmed that the adjacent
property owners would not be assessed for paving 570th Street.
Ron Fuchs, 806 Brookridge, Ames, referenced a letter that his wife, Holly Fuchs, had sent to
the City Council. In same, she was asking the Council to postpone a decision on this matter for
three reasons: (1) The Zoning Agreement needs to be strengthened, and the timing allowed for
the developer to find retailers is too long. (2) The benefits and costs of the proposed
development for the citizens of Ames have to be made clear. (3) Postponing the voting until
January 2006 would allow any newly elected members of the City Council to participate in the
decision.
Sue Ravenscroft, 455 Westwood, Ames, stated that she had several concerns about the revised
Agreement: (1) Mr. Wolford wants two more years before he has to buy any land or enter into
leases. In order to obtain Building Permits, the developer has to present only 329,000 square
feet of retail leases with only 80,000 square feet new to the area. (2) “Retail” now includes
office and professional uses. According to Ms. Ravenscroft, Wolford Development may obtain
Building Permits with less retail space than North Grand Mall currently has, and Wolford’s
complex is considerably smaller than the retail complex around North Grand; that complex is
660,000 square feet. (3) Once Wolford Development obtains Building Permits, it has three
years to actually construct the buildings. Ms. Ravenscroft said that the City cannot force
completion of the plans; if the Company doesn’t build, the City’s only enforcement would be
to take away Building Permits. She felt that the City could provide some protection to the
citizens of Ames by: (1) Require Wolford Development to have rental agreements or leases for
the minimum size of 498,000 square feet for the Lifestyle Center and 300,000 square feet for
the Power Center before issuing any Building Permits. (2) Keep the date by which Wolford
Development must prove financing and leases at December 1, 2006. (3) Require the Company
to pay for the bicycle path over the freeway. (4) Require the Company to pay a portion of the
annual bus cost for service to the commercial development. (5) Put limits on the amount of
space in the new Center that may be devoted to offices. Pre-leases or Performance Bonds, if
the sales are below the market study numbers, could be required. Ms. Ravenscroft urged the
City Council to table this proposal until more protection could be provided to the citizens of
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Ames. She asked if the process was required to start over if modifications were made to the
Zoning Agreement. City Attorney Klaus explained that any substantial change to the proposed
zoning ordinance would necessitate the process to start over; however, a change to the Zoning
Agreement (i.e., a revised Appendix E) does not carry those requirements. Mr. Klaus said that
it is probably a misstatement to say that the Agreement is being changed because the text of the
Agreement is not being changed; it is only the way data was represented on a graphic.
Anne Kimber, 1214 Marston Avenue, Ames, stated that it was important for the present Council
not to vote on this measure this evening since it was possible that one, two, or three Council
members would be replaced. To vote tonight would be to “vote in the dark” since new Council
members may take office who would be against this issue. Ms. Kimber said that the members
of the City Council were elected to “provide electricity, water, sewer; to oversee police and fire
services; maintain the parks; and, add a stop sign here and there.” In her opinion, the big
decisions were supposed to come back to the voters. She urged the Council to table this
proposal and not to “take a lame duck action”.
Kay Berger, 4121 Dawes Drive, Ames, speaking as a member of Ames Smart Growth,
explained the research that Ames Smart Growth had done and provided to the City Council in
opposition to the development of retail commercial in the proposed area. She stated that Ames
Smart Growth had received no response from the Council. It is of great concern to that group
that the vote on this issue had been scheduled on Election Day. She felt that this was a
deliberate action on the part of the City. The start time of the meeting at 5:30 PM did not allow
citizens to exercise their right to vote and be present at this meeting. It was also very vague as
to what time this issue would be heard. Ms. Berger stated that that constituted a moral violation
of the trust placed in the Council. She urged the City Council to table this issue until the
composition of the new Council is known, and “if the new Council decides to allow a mall to
locate in the proposed location, so be it.”.
Erwin Klaas, 1405 Grand Avenue, Ames, read excerpts from and described certain principles
contained in Aldo Leopold’s Sand County Almanac and other essays from Round River written
in 1947. He said the book profoundly changed his life and guided his professional career. Mr.
Klaas believes that economic feasibility is an “euphemism for greed”. He is particularly
concerned about Ketelsen Marsh and feels that the Council decided the “Marsh is less valuable
than a shopping center”. Although he had provided unheeded testimony and letters to the
Mayor and Council since January 2004, he said he came to this hearing because the citizens
needed to be reminded of the Council’s unreasonable decisions and hold them accountable. In
his opinion, their “accountability started today.”
Henry Campbell, 915 Gaskill Drive, Ames, said that his interest in this issue arose from the
impact that the proposed development would have on the downtown area. He made an analogy
between a heart and the downtown area, stating that “if the heart of a body is healthy, the body
will be healthy; thus, if the heart of the City is healthy, then the City will be healthy.” Mr.
Campbell does not want “the vibrant downtown to be put at risk.” Mr. Campbell felt that, over
time, the proposed mall will leave the downtown “as a wasteland”.
David Metzler, 1205 Michigan Avenue, Ames, stated his appreciation of the work that the City
Council and City officials do; however, they had taken up the challenge to act carefully and
intelligently. He asked that the Council members follow a science-based policy, which requires
honestly and openness. If there are differences of opinion, more study may be needed, and a
scientific approach also requires that individuals be willing to consider alternatives and even
to change their minds. Mr. Metzler also stated that a scientific approach would require that
there be more transparency in planning. One of the anticipated effects is that the majority of
residents of the City will spend more money on travel to and from the Lifestyle Center than
they would if they patronized stores closer to the center of Ames. He also believes it is a
question of human decency. He believes the City should establish a way to promote growth
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without harming either the atmosphere or the natural environment.
Terry Besser, 2036 Pinehurst Drive, Ames, said the new mall will not help the School District
budget. She clarified that a portion of the Local Option Sales Tax goes to the infrastructure
budget of the School System. It does not contribute to the operating budget of the schools; the
operating budget is formula-driven and determined by the state of Iowa. Ames needs more
students to get a larger portion of the state’s formula-driven money. That happens when more
families move within the Ames School District, not on the outskirts of town. Ms. Besser does
not believe the argument that the proposed mall would attract people to move to Ames. She
cited an example to show that retail, by itself, does not necessarily generate population growth,
i.e., the Mall of America. She asked that the City Council reject the rezoning proposal or at
least table it for a new Council to consider.
Jo Etzel, 2912 Wood Street, Ames, said that she was speaking on behalf of Ames Smart
Growth. She stated that the members of Ames Smart Growth were not opposed to all growth;
they were in favor of new businesses to be located in existing retail and industrial areas. Ms.
Etzel said the group felt government had the duty to distinguish between growth that
strengthens the community and growth that is ugly, promotes sprawl, or has more costs than
benefits. She said the City’s role is to decide what type of development should go where. Ms.
Etzel said that Ames Smart Growth is not against change; they are working to encourage the
right kinds of change.
Mary Ann Lundy, 4316 Phoenix Street, Ames, asked the City Council to consider where the
parcel for the proposed rezoning is located. She asked that they remember its proximity to
Ketelsen Marsh and how this rezoning would affect the planned future development of
industrial land to the south and east of the proposed mall. Ms. Lundy believes that quality
planned industrial growth is vital to support future residential and commercial growth in Ames.
She does not believe retail commercial and industrial uses can exist so closely together. Ms.
Lundy asked if citizens were to presume that the rezoning was an indication of support for
eastern growth of the City. Staff, Planning & Zoning Commission members, and City Council
members, in the past, have supported growth to the southwest as being best, lowest in cost, and
most efficient. She asked when that change had been made. Ms. Lundy urged the Council to
vote against the rezoning.
Dale Edwards, 1222 Wilson, Ames, read excerpts from the Municipal Code and Iowa Code
Section 414.5 regarding consent of the current property owners to the rezoning. Mr. Edwards
felt that the Zoning Agreement must be signed by the current property owners. He pointed out
that the Agreement is signed by James L. Wolford, but he is not the property owner. Mr.
Edwards believes that without the signatures of the true property owners, the conditions are
invalid. In Mr. Edwards’ opinion, the Agreement should run with the land so that if and when
Mr. Wolford purchases the land, he will be bound by the conditions under Iowa Code 414.5.
Also, no metes and bounds legal description was given on the application or Notices of
Hearings; the descriptions are unacceptably vague. Mr. Edwards asked that the City Council
withhold further action on the Zoning Agreement until the discrepancies are corrected. Mayor
Tedesco explained that publication of the rezoning ordinance would follow the purchase of the
land by Mr. Wolford. He is confident that no violations have occurred.
Shellie Orngard, 928 Burnett Avenue, Ames, raised the issue again that this was Election Day.
She believed that the voters were voting today for something more fundamental than just one
issue; that is the opportunity to participate in their own government. Ms. Orngard said that
citizens wished to have City Council members who represent their views. She pointed out that
the composition of the Council could change dramatically and asked that the vote on this issue
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be postponed until the results of the election are known and the new Council is in place.
Ben Seel, 217 E. Seventh Street, Ames, said that he had recently adopted Ames as his home.
He said that he felt the Council Chambers actually struck him as being a room full of fear
tonight. If the citizens of Ames are so committed to their community, “what’s the big deal if
new retail centers come in?”. Citizens are going to continue to patronize the downtown
businesses and others owned by local people. He asked again what was the big fear of an
outside organization coming in. Mr. Seel also asked if these citizens had so little faith in their
own community that new businesses should not come into Ames and open up new franchises
here. He also asked if they thought they would not get any new businesses to come into this
community and be successful. Mr. Seel said that he thought it was ludicrous the way Ames was
currently growing to think that no businesses would fill up the retail spaces. He does not believe
finding new stores to occupy the retail space will be a problem. Mr. Seel said the people here
tonight want smart growth; that is up to them. They don’t need to travel to Des Moines or go
to any of the new places; they can go to the places that they currently go to. He asked why they
were worried or concerned just because new places come in and new jobs are created. Mr. Seel
believes that the failure or the success of this mall, if created, is going to be up to them to be
patrons of it. If they think it is a bad idea, they don’t have to shop there. He asked the Council
members to have some faith in this community, have faith in its citizens, and realize that new
businesses and new malls may be created. If it does not succeed, it will not be the City’s loss,
it will be Wolford Development “taking the hit.” Mr. Seel told the Council that they “had been
debating this issue forever,” and he urged the Council not to table it.
Katherine Fromm, 3531 George Washington Carver, Ames, disagreed with Mr. Seel, stating
that “nothing in the mall would be entrepreneurial”; it will be established corporations. Ms.
Fromm indicated that she patronizes a lot of businesses run by women in Ames. She does not
anticipate that those business people will have a place in the mall because the rent will be too
high. Ms. Fromm believes that these people, “mostly women”, are good at what they do, and
she would hate to see them go under because of “Bucky’s Boondoggle” or the
“Schainker/Tedesco Folly.”. Ms. Fromm said that she shops all over the country, and she will
continue to do that, but she will not be found at the proposed mall.
Catherine Scott, 1510 Roosevelt, Ames, stated that it was the thinking of many of the speakers
that each item would be handled separately. The Mayor had instructed that each speaker would
be given five minutes to speak on Item No. 20; that included a., b., and c. Two people indicated
that they had prepared separate speeches on the Zoning Agreement and the proposed rezoning.
Moved by Wirth, seconded by Goodman, to allow the two speakers who had prepared separate
speeches to speak.
No vote taken.
Sue Ravenscroft, 455 Westwood, Ames, stated that before the vote is taken, she would expect
the City Council to provide evidence and analyses that counter the reservations that have been
expressed by experts in retail economics. According to Ms. Ravenscroft, Dr. Ken Stone had
shown multiple times that, in terms of retail, Ames was doing better than average for a town
of its size and income; Ames was not suffering from leakage. She also referenced a report
written by Dr. Dave Swenson in January 2005 wherein he described a hierarchy of jobs and
economic development. At the top were export-producing jobs, including manufacturing,
corporate headquarters, and universities, and at the lowest end was retail. She asked why Ames
was looking at the worst type of economic development for land that could be used for
manufacturing. Ms. Ravenscroft referenced the market study done in 2003, stating that it
provided exaggerated numbers of $347,000,000 in retail sales per year, an increase of over 70%
of the current sales. She said, according to an Ames Tribune reporter, the developer even
discredits that report. Ms. Ravenscroft pointed out that there had been no valid economic
impact study performed based on the developer’s current building plans. She felt that the City
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Council owed it to the citizens of Ames to provide credible evidence or table the vote.
Catherine Scott, 1510 Roosevelt, Ames, spoke about the concept of a Lifestyle Center. She
distributed a graphic that depicted what kind of person shops at a Lifestyle Center. The median
income of Lifestyle Center shoppers is $85,000. Ms. Scott believed that Iowa State students
had figured out that a Lifestyle Center is not geared to their shopping needs based on an on-line
poll in the Iowa State Daily. The poll, with 84 respondents, indicated 76% felt Ames should
not build a new Lifestyle Center. Ms. Scott referenced an article in the November 5, 2005,
edition of the Des Moines Register indicating that Wall Street was concerned about consumer
spending levels. She said that 91% of people making less than $100,000/year were spending
less now than they were five years ago. Ms. Scott pointed out that Wolford Development was
asking for rezoning of over 300 acres of land, and the only thing guaranteed was that 329,000
square feet of retail will be built if financing were obtained and Building Permits are issued.
She asked if Wolford Development could use all that land to dominate the Ames market and
does Ames really want it to. More commercial uses have been approved for SE 16th Street,
Somerset, and Duff Avenue; there is a clear message sent that Ames does not want to be
dominated by one developer.
After no one else wished to speak, the hearing was closed.
Council Member Goodhue said he believed that the process on this issue had been very open
and healthy. The Overlay Committee had a lot of public input. Mr. Goodhue believes that the
City Council has taken all input very seriously. There is clearly a difference of opinion on this
issue. The City has negotiated a good Zoning Agreement that will hopefully provide a better
tax base – both in property and sales tax – and open up additional development possibilities.
Mr. Goodhue believes that the benefits far outweigh the negatives of this issue. He believes
that it is time to move forward.
Council Member Vegge agreed that the process had been very open. He disagreed with tabling
this issue because it was the duty of this Council to finish its work. Mr. Vegge believed the
process had been good. He pointed out that the mall had been downsized to the proposed
Lifestyle Center as a result of the recommendations of the Steering Committee. Mr. Vegge is
confident that the Downtown will do well and may thrive because of increased traffic. There
are some risks, but he felt confident in moving ahead.
Council Member Goodman advised that he agreed with Council Members Goodhue and Vegge
that tabling this issue would be cowardice; the Council has been entrusted to make decisions,
some of which others may not like. He agreed with the concepts of free market, but it is not just
a free-market issue for him. Mr. Goodman said the key is choice of products. Things that are
not free are land use decisions with regards to the free market. Land use always has a cost, and
the philosophical differences of this Council center around the cost of infrastructure being offset
by increased retail sales taxes and property taxes. Also, he said that it is not a matter of
protectionism for him. Mr. Goodman believes that it would be best to locate this kind of
development where existing infrastructure can be used, rather than creating new costs to serve
it.
Council Member Wirth said that the responsible action of this Council is to make a decision on
this issue tonight. The top issues for her are the inadequate protection for the Marsh and the
environmental issues. Although she wants additional retail choices, she does not feel that the
proposed location is the correct location. Ms. Wirth said that she is putting her faith in the
advice offered by Ken Stone. In ten years, Ms. Wirth believes that Ames will have two “half-
dead malls.”
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Council Member Cross said that part of what extended this issue was the willingness on the part
of this Council to listen to as many views as possible. He said the City Council heard the public
when they listened to their concerns about whether this development was feasible; about the
look, the feel, the size and style of the proposed mall, and those concerns have been reflected
in the Zoning Agreement, which requires tenants and financing by a certain date. That’s how
they will learn if there is a market; that’s the economic feasibility study that many have asked
for. He said they listened to the Citizens Advisory Committee, who made recommendations
about the size and type of development, landscaping, protection of the Marsh, and water run-
off; those are incorporated in rules that will be in place “prior to one spade of dirt being
moved.”. All members of the Council have thought long and hard about the impacts of this
development.
Council Member Mahayni stressed that the City needed to take the Land Use Policy Plan
(LUPP) seriously. He said that a major theme in the LUPP is that Ames is a regional center;
it is a regional community that serves not only the residents of Ames, but also those in
surrounding communities. Two examples cited at that time were retail and medical services.
He said now they are hearing from some that they must change that thinking and not be a
regional center. Secondly, when talking about commercial centers, they need to be thought of
in terms of a hierarchy of centers. A neighborhood center serves a very different function from
a community center or a regional center. The kinds of goods and services that are bought in
each one of the centers are different from another center. Mr. Mahayni pointed out that the City
Council is not the only decision-maker in this issue. If the Zoning Agreement is agreed to, the
developer would be able to seek financing and continue with the development. If the
development does not reflect the realities of the market place, banks will not finance this
endeavor. Mr. Mahayni pointed out that he is also a planner. He referenced when Target
wanted to move a few years ago, the sentiment of many in the community was that the shopping
in that portion of Ames would be destroyed. Target is prospering and the Lincoln Center retail
area is also prospering. Mr. Mahayni said that he is a believer in planning and a believer in the
Ames LUPP.
Mayor Tedesco thanked the City Council for their commitment. He said that it would be very
easy for the Council to table this issue and push it off onto others; however, it takes a great deal
of courage to accept the responsibility and make a decision on this issue. Mr. Tedesco also
thanked those present for their testimony and respect.
Moved by Goodhue, seconded by Vegge, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 05-457 approving the
Zoning Agreement, accepting the latest version of Appendix E.
Roll Call Vote: 4-2. Voting aye: Cross, Goodhue, Mahayni, Vegge. Voting nay: Goodman,
Wirth. Resolution declared adopted, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these
minutes.
Moved by Vegge, seconded by Cross, to pass on first reading an ordinance rezoning property
from "A" (Agricultural) and "PI" (Planned Industrial) to "PRC" (Planned Regional
Commercial) and "O-GNE" (Northeast Gateway Overlay District).
Roll Call Vote: 4-2. Voting aye: Cross, Goodhue, Mahayni, Vegge. Voting nay: Goodman,
Wirth. Motion declared carried.
Moved by Goodhue, seconded by Cross, to direct the City Clerk not to publish the Ordinance
until proof of closing on land transaction is received.
Vote on Motion: 5-1. Voting aye: Cross, Goodhue, Mahayni, Vegge, Wirth. Voting nay:
Goodman. Motion declared carried.
HEARING ON TEXT AMENDMENT TO THE ZONING ORDINANCE TO ALLOW PICK-
UP WINDOWS IN COMMERCIAL DISTRICTS AND OTHER REVISIONS TO
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DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR THE NC (NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL)
ZONING DISTRICT (WALGREEN'S): Mayor Tedesco explained that a request had been
received from Mike Simonson, Simonson & Associates Architects, LLC, to defer this issue
until the City Council’s meeting on November 22, 2005. Mayor Tedesco explained that a
Notice of Hearing had been published, thus, the hearing must be opened; however, if the City
Council so desired, they could continue the hearing until November 22, 2005.
The meeting recessed at 8:35 p.m. and reconvened at 8:40 p.m.
Planner Ray Anderson explained the request. If approved, it would create nonconformities in
the Downtown and Campustown areas since the “DCSC” (Downtown/Campustown Service
Center) and “CVCN” (Convenience Commercial Node) were excluded by the applicant in their
proposed list of commercial districts that would allow “pick-up window” as a permitted use.
Mr. Anderson stated that the text amendments, as proposed, would allow larger and more
intense commercial development in and near residential neighborhoods than currently provided
for in the Code. The pick-up windows, off-street parking between building and streets, and the
much larger scale of buildings allowed for single buildings and for Neighborhood Centers
would permit intense commercial development in and near residential neighborhoods, which
is contrary to the purpose for the “NC” (Neighborhood Commercial) District.
The hearing was opened by the Mayor.
Jeannette Bohnenkamp, 2222 Barr Drive, Ames, pointed out that a petition containing 153
signatures against a change in zoning for the Campus Baptist Church was presented to the City
some time ago. She urged the City Council to uphold the provisions of the LUPP and vote
against the text amendment.
Ron Fuchs, 806 Brookridge Avenue, Ames, urged the Council not to change the Neighborhood
Commercial Zoning Ordinance. He brought the Council’s attention to a letter prepared by his
wife, Holly, and distributed around the dais.
Sandra McJimsey, 2236 Storm Street, Ames, urged the City Council to deny this request based
on the following: (1) The community’s land use decision-making processes should be based on
the provisions of the Land Use Policy Plan; the request is inconsistent with the LUPP, and
approval of the request would be contrary to the Plan. (2) The request would corrupt the intent
of the Neighborhood Commercial designation. (3) North Grand Avenue has been a barrier
between residential and commercial uses.
Dale Brentnall, 429-25th Street, Ames, pointed out that his neighborhood and the neighborhood
to the south is zoned Low-Density Residential. The proposal also pertains to three other
neighborhoods. He supports the LUPP and urged the Council to deny the request.
Dilys Morris, 533 Forest Glen, Ames, said that she is concerned about Neighborhood
Commercial Districts. She believed that parking lots contribute to the “ugliness of our
community.”. Ms. Morris applauded the requirements for landscaping, but would like to add
the requirement that the landscaping be kept alive; oftentimes, trees die and are not replaced.
Ms. Morris urged that the proposed text amendment be denied.
Don Schultz, 601 - 20th Street, Ames, stated his opposition to the proposed text amendment. He
pointed out that this request is for much more than a pick-up window. Mr. Schultz described
some of the ramifications that could result if the maximum lot area allowed for a single building
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in the “NC” District were allowed to be increased from 20,000 square feet to 80,000 square
feet.
Council Member Vegge asked the above-named speakers why they are against the Walgreen’s
store relocating to the Campus Baptist Church. Mr. Schultz said that he is not against the
Walgreen’s store; however, the City promised the residents 20 years ago that all commercial
property would be north of 24th Street and west of Grand Avenue. He does not believe that
residential property should be changed to commercial in this area. Ms. Bohnenkamp agreed
that Grand Avenue had been a long-term barrier between residential and commercial
development. She believes that there should be a buffer between low-density residential and
commercial property; in this case, there would be no buffer. Zoning changes should occur on
the back lot lines; however, in this case, commercial would be located on one side of the street
and low-density residential would be located on the other.
Mike Simonson, Simonson & Associates Architects, 2429 - 128th Street, Urbandale, advised
that he represented the New Millenium Group, which builds Walgreen’s stores in Iowa, and
Grand Avenue Baptist Church. He stated that Walgreen’s would like to stay in the
neighborhood; however, the owners of North Grand Mall informed Walgreen’s that when the
Mall expands, there will not be room for their store. Also, Grand Avenue Baptist Church would
like to expand. The Church has the option of removing the four single-family homes adjacent
to the Church (to the east) and expand at its present location or to sell the property and build
elsewhere. Under the second scenario, the four single-family homes would be kept residential
and sold as such. The classroom building would be razed at the expense of Walgreen’s; the site
would be cleared and sold for single-family homes.
Mr. Simonson wanted to clarify an issue pertaining to the maximum size of the lot allowed in
the NC Zone. They are proposing that the maximum size be reduced from 100,000 square feet,
which is now allowed, to 80,000 square feet for all of the sites currently zoned NC.
Mr. Simonson explained that they originally requested to defer this discussion because they had
asked for some information from staff and that information had not been received by last
Friday. However, he received the staff report in the mail yesterday and would be happy to
discuss the issue tonight.
When no one else wished to speak, the Mayor closed the hearing.
Council Member Wirth said she believed that this request, if granted, would totally change the
criteria for Neighborhood Commercial. She is not in favor of that happening.
Council Member Mahayni said it was not acceptable to him for commercial development
crossing Grand and crossing 24th Street. He has serious reservations about this request; it would
be a regressive move.
Council Member Goodhue pointed out that Walgreen’s had been attempting to relocate in the
community for several years. He would like the store to stay in the area and encouraged the
staff to provide assistance to them to find an alternative site. Council Member Wirth
encouraged the Walgreen’s representatives to talk again with the owners of North Grand Mall
in an attempt to work something out.
Moved by Cross, seconded by Goodman, to deny the request.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON REZONING PROPERTY AT 534 SOUTH DUFF AVENUE FROM "A"
(AGRICULTURAL) TO "HOC" (HIGHWAY-ORIENTED COMMERCIAL) [WAL-MART]:
Matt Flynn introduced new City employee and Planner Ryan Heiland. Mr. Heiland described
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the request to rezone the property at 534 South Duff Avenue.
The Mayor opened the public hearing.
Catherine Scott, 1510 Roosevelt, Ames, pointed out that there is already a Wal-Mart in Ames
and Ames has plenty of grocery stores. A huge super store is not needed; it will require
additional electrical capacity and create increased traffic. Ms. Scott is concerned that this
building would be located in the floodway. This proposal, as well as others presented tonight,
threatens to take commercial from North Grand. She said that Ames does not need a Super
Wal-Mart.
No one else wished to speak, and Mayor Tedesco closed the hearing.
Moved by Goodhue, seconded by Vegge, to pass on first reading an ordinance rezoning
property at 534 South Duff Avenue from "A" (Agricultural) to "HOC" (Highway-Oriented
Commercial).
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
REQUEST FOR FUNDING FROM ISU GOVERNMENT OF THE STUDENT BODY (GSB)
FOR CAMPUSTOWN STUDY: Tony Borich explained that the GSB is requesting funding from
the City in the amount of $1,750 to fund a study on how to improve Campustown. Mr. Borich
said students have a lot of interest in improving Campustown, but have not been as involved
as they could or should have been. This is an idea for a student-led study that would also reach
out to those in the community who have an interest in Campustown. GSB has reached an
agreement with the College of Design, ISU President’s Office, and the Student Senate to fund
the study in the amount of $1,750 each, and the City is being asked to allocate an equal amount
of funding.
Mr. Schainker explained how this study would be different from other studies conducted. It
would focus on compiling the opinions and ideas from students, residents, University leaders,
City officials, and commercial enterprises. In the past, student design seminars had focused on
just creating the future aesthetic look of Campustown. Their input was limited, and the design
was guided primarily by students and faculty who were conducting the studio. Mr. Schainker
said that the product of the initial study would be to provide useful baseline information that
would serve as a background for all future initiatives; it would create a set of shared inspirations
and objectives relating to Campustown and create a unified look at what the potential long-term
development could be. The product is not to create a design; it is to describe the vision. The
next step would be design-based on this background information. If funded, Mr. Schainker
recommended that the funds be allocated from the Contingency Account.
Council Member Goodman stated that he was in favor of community conversation and/or
forums more so than spending $7,000 on another study. Mr. Borich explained that the proposed
studio project would include looking at other universities, other public/private partnerships; it
would be much more broad-based than the charrette. Mr. Borich explained that the outcome
would be a document that sets the foundation for further action. The project would take one
semester.
Council Member Cross expressed his concern that no substantive changes would be made in
Campustown; the result would be a document with good ideas.
Mr. Borich said a distinction between this and other studies was that they were not anticipating
that the end product of this would be a design that everyone could come to a consensus on;
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issues, policies and economics would be the focus. Other college campustowns would be
looked at as would public/private partnerships. Another distinction is that a different approach
will be taken for this studio project; the emphasis will not be on design. This study will be much
more multi-disciplinary (non-design students and faculty will be consulted).
Council Member Wirth asked if it were envisioned that this process would be a series of
meetings with facilitators. Mr. Borich said that would be part of it. Also, reaching out to the
constituencies would be very important. Part of the reason that it will cost $7,000 is because
visits will be made to other university communities to learn what has and hasn’t worked in their
campustown neighborhoods.
Council Member Vegge asked who would be managing the study. Mr. Borich said the College
of Design team would be in communication with GSB President Angela Groh. The fee is
substantially more than what has been raised for other class projects, but there will be travel
costs, costs of arranging additional meetings, and costs for producing a report and materials to
be widely distributed. Council Member Vegge questioned how this study would impact the
University-Impacted Area Plan. Mr. Borich felt that the UIA Plan focuses on other issues and
could move ahead. It was also asked by Council Member Vegge what the timing was for this
study and what would be the deliverable. It was explained by Mr. Borich that a document
would be produced that would set the foundation for other action. The study will take one
semester.
Council Member Cross applauded the efforts to involve a number of people from various parts
of the community to assess a given area. He pointed out that that had been done twice with the
Downtown. A lot of time, effort, and funds are put into those projects, and the end result is that
it is a great idea with good community input, but not much happens afterwards. It is important
to get the market place involved so there is understanding of what really is financially feasible;
otherwise, the result is no substantive change. Mr. Borich said there is no guarantee, but this
approach has not been applied in Campustown. He feels that more depth and knowledge will
be gleaned than what was produced by the Downtown charrette.
Moved by Wirth, seconded by Vegge, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 05-458 approving the
request from the ISU Government of the Student Body (GSB) for $1,750 from Contingency for
Campustown study.
Mr. Borich explained that more specificity could be provided at a future meeting with the
appropriate persons attending to provide a brief presentation. Mr. Borich will take care of the
appropriate meeting notifications.
Moved by Wirth, seconded by Cross, to table this request to a meeting prior to the end of the
year.
Vote on Motion: 5-0-1. Voting aye: Cross, Goodhue, Goodman, Vegge, Wirth. Voting nay:
None. Abstaining: Mahayni. Motion declared carried.
INTERCONNECTION AGREEMENT BETWEEN CENTRAL IOWA POWER
COOPERATIVE AND CITY OF AMES: Moved by Cross, seconded by Vegge, to authorize
the Mayor to approve the Interconnection Agreement between Central Iowa Power Cooperative
and the City of Ames.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
PRESENTATION OF 2005 RESIDENT SATISFACTION SURVEY RESULTS: Public
Relations Officer Susan Gwiasda explained the Survey and presented its results.
Council Member Goodhue asked about a question on Page 7, Table 4, i.e., “If we were to spend
more, what services would you support.” He pointed out that economic development had
15
always been the top vote-getter for the past four years. This year, it had a dash in there and he
asked for a reason. Ms. Gwiasda said that economic development and leased housing
assistance were taken out because they are not funded through sales tax or property tax; they
receive money from different areas. Mr. Goodhue felt that was unfortunate as it had always
been a good gauge as to the City’s economic development program. He felt that it should be
put back in the survey. Mr. Schainker explained that economic development is not funded by
the General Fund and the survey is geared towards the General Fund.
ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING REGULATIONS ON NORTHWESTERN AVENUE:
Moved by Cross, seconded by Goodman, to pass on first reading an ordinance establishing no
parking regulations along the east side of Northwestern Avenue from 13th Street to 615 feet
north
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
ORDINANCE MAKING A ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT TO ALLOW A RENTAL
SERVICES OFFICE AS A PERMITTED USE IN THE PLANNED RESIDENCE (F-PRD)
ZONING DISTRICT: Moved by Goodhue, seconded by Cross, to pass on third reading and adopt
ORDINANCE NO. 3858 making a zoning text amendment to allow a rental services office as
a permitted use in the Planned Residence (F-PRD) Zoning District.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Ordinance declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
ORDINANCE REVISING THE RENTAL HOUSING INSPECTIONS PROGRAM: Moved
by Goodhue, seconded by Vegge, to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO. 3859
revising the Rental Housing Inspection Program.
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 Mahayni, to direct staff to schedule a joint meeting
with the Planning & Zoning Commission by the end of December 2005.
Motion withdrawn.
Moved by Wirth, seconded by Goodhue, to refer to staff the request of the Case Manager of the
“Living With HIV Program” to be added to the next City Council agenda to discuss the
upcoming World AIDS Day “A Day Without Art” preparation and activities.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Wirth, seconded by Cross, to refer to staff the letter from the American Western
Festival to be dealt with at budget time.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Goodhue, seconded by Cross, to refer to staff the request from Main Street Cultural
District to be dealt with at budget time.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Goodhue, seconded by Goodman, to refer to staff the letter from Anne Durland
regarding the Emerald Ash borer and Ash trees scheduled to be planted in Northridge Heights.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
In light of the resignation of David Maahs, Executive Director of the Economic Development
Commission, Mayor Tedesco directed City staff to place a presentation honoring him on the
first agenda in December.
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ADJOURNMENT: 10:40 p.m.
___________________________________ ____________________________________
Diane R. Voss, City Clerk Ted Tedesco, Mayor
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