HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council 04/26/1994MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA APRIL 26, 1994
The Ames City Council met in regular session at 7:00 p.m.,April 26, l994, in the City Council
Chambers in the City Hall, 515 Clark Avenue, pursuant to law with Mayor Curtis presiding and the
following Council Members present: Campbell, Hoffman, Parks, Tedesco, and Wirth. Council
Member Brown was not present at roll call.
PROCLAMATION FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION WEEK: Mayor Curtis proclaimed
May 8-14, 1994, as National Historic Preservation Week. David Delagardelle, Chair of the
Historic Preservation Commission, was present for proclamation presentation. Mr.
Delagardelle thanked the city for its support and cooperation.
PRESENTATION FOR DONATION TO AMES ANIMAL SHELTER: Lorna Lavender,
Animal Control Officer, gave special thanks to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory and
Dr. Ron Morgan for the recycling and donation of stainless steel cages. Dr. Morgan was
presented with a plaque.
CONSENT AGENDA: Item No. 4 was pulled from the agenda by Staff. Moved by Campbell,
seconded by Hoffman, to approve the following items on the Consent Agenda removing Item.
No. 4 for separate consideration.
1. Motion to approve payment of claims.
2. Motion to approve minutes of the regular meeting of April 12, l994, and
of the special meeting of April 18, l994.
3. Motion to approve renewal of the following beer and liquor licenses:
a) Class C Beer - Dell Oil Ltd., 508 South Duff Avenue.
b) Class C Beer - C.I. Country Corner, 2400 Elwood Drive.
4. Motion to authorize hiring of temporary assistance in the City Clerk's Office.
5. RESOLUTION NO. 94-148 approving 1994-95 Pay Plan.
6. RESOLUTION NO. 94-149 approving waiver of parking meter fees and restrictions in City
Hall east parking lot during weekend of Toxic Clean-Up Day.
7. RESOLUTION NO. 94-150 approving EDSA contract between City of Ames and
Commercial Plastic Packaging, Inc., in the amount of $174,000.
8. RESOLUTION NO. 94-151 approving plans and specifications for 1994 Seal Coat
Resurfacing Program; setting May 16, l994, as bid due date and May 24, l994, as date of
public hearing and award of contract.
9. RESOLUTION NO. 94-152 approving award of contract to Coach Crafters in the amount
of $299,220 for ADA retrofitting of ten transit vehicles, subject to concurrence by the IDOT
and Transit Board.
10. RESOLUTION NO. 94-153 waiving formal bidding procedure, awarding contract to
Enviroplan, Inc. in the amount of $162,080, and accepting contract, subject to receipt of
performance bond for Continuous Emission Monitor Upgrade.
11. RESOLUTION NO. 94-154 approving contract and bond of Fort Dodge Asphalt Company
for 1994 Joint Sealing Program.
12. RESOLUTION NO. 94-155 approving contract and bond of Fort Dodge Asphalt Company
for 1994 Slurry Seal Program.
13. RESOLUTION NO. 94-156 approving amendment of YMCA human service contract.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
MINUTES OF THE APRIL 12, 1994, MEETING: Moved by Tedesco, seconded by Hoffman,
to amend the minutes on page 9, last paragraph, under "FLOOD MITIGATION PRIORITIES"
to read ..."1) Relief Sanitary Sewer Line; 2) King's City Mobile Home Park;".
Moved by Wirth, seconded by Tedesco, to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of April
12, l994, as amended.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
PUBLIC FORUM: John Huber presented an award to Mayor Curtis on behalf of the Ames
Convention and Visitors Bureau. Mayor Curtis was recognized as a champion for bringing the
Iowa League of Municipalities here September of l995.
Regina Zargarian, Executive Director of the George Washington Carver Campaign, asked that
at next council meeting the agenda would address the naming of a street after him.
RENEWAL OF LIQUOR LICENSE: It was noted that this license is before the Council as a
renewal due to the fact that the change of ownership has not been concluded at this time.
Moved by Campbell, seconded by Wirth, to approve renewal of the liquor
license.
a) Class C Liquor - Thumbs, 2816 West Street.
Council Member Hoffman - referred to the list of convictions and the discrepancy between the
actual license application and the police report. There were questions regarding the process of
sanctions imposed for the violations. John Klaus, City Attorney, addressed those concerns.
Jay Richmond, 2814-1/2 West Street, addressed the citation regarding disturbance of the peace.
This citation was a personal misdemeanor against himself, but not against the establishment. He
will be involved with the new management of Thumbs. Discussion was held regarding the
number of citations going up in the last year.
Council Member Tedesco stated that there needs to be a concerting effort to control what's going
on and alerted him to take action. Mr. Richmond stated there was a written policy available to
employees. He also plans to utilize training through the Ames Police Department with explained
penalties imposed against employees for violations of written policy.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
FARMERS MARKET: Moved by Hoffman, seconded by Parks to approve an agreement with the
Ames Farmers Market Association for use of Depot area site from May 4 to October 29, l994.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
REQUEST FROM AMES CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU: Mr. Rich Harter,
Executive Director, Ames Convention and Visitors Bureau was present to address any questions
the Council might have. Firstar Bank sent a letter representing the Campustown Merchants
Association. Council Member Campbell expressed concern that no standards are in place to
waive such requests and caution needs to be taken.
Mr. Harter stated this was good for the city; but guidelines for future events need to be set.
Would like to assist in designing parameters. Mr. Schainker, City Manager, doesn't know the
dollar impact for this event. Mr. Harter stated that he didn't know the number of events this
might entail. Mr. Harter listed parameters for consideration as: 1) Groups have a documented
history showing a minimum of 10,000 attendees, groups spend at least three nights in Ames, and
virtually all Ames area hotels are full with said group. 2) The Ames hospitality industry meets
with City officials prior to bidding on a piece of business and agree on an appropriate level of
subsidy to be paid by the hospitality industry to the city for lost parking meter revenue. Mr.
Harter felt that waiver of parking meter fees/ticketing would be a nice enhancement to encourage
this group.
Council Member Campbell was uncomfortable about voting for it, but would encourage Mr.
Harter to work out logistics for future events. Mr. Harter had concerns about winning this bid
in the future. Waiver of the parking meter fees/ticketing would strengthen the position in
extension of hospitality.
City Attorney, Mr. Klaus, explained that the City has had an increase in requests regarding
waivers of parking enforcement. It may be necessary to incorporate this in a City ordinance for
some predictability.
Moved by Parks, seconded by Tedesco, to table this request until the next meeting when a
written policy is in place.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
REQUEST FROM SAWYER SCHOOL: Moved to approve by Hoffman, seconded by Brown,
to approve Electric Department to set poles for community service project.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
INTRODUCTION OF GINGER JONES: Mayor Curtis introduced Ginger Jones to the City
Council. Mrs. Jones will be assisting the City Clerk's Office in minute taking and preparation.
REQUEST FROM ARC: Moved by Hoffman, seconded by Tedesco, to approve request from The
Arc of Story County to waive a deposit fee of $500 for a hydrant water meter for the Great
American Circus on May 3, l994.
Council Member Campbell clarified this is a for-profit organization rather than a not-for-profit
organization. Ms. Johnson, Executive Director of The ARC, explained The ARC of Story
County is sponsoring the circus as a fund raiser and explained the division of monies. Council
Member Campbell asked if the circus could cover the deposit. Ms. Johnson explained that The
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ARC is the responsible party for the circus.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
REQUEST FOR SANITARY SEWER INSTALLATION: Moved by Tedesco, seconded by
Parks, to approve staff request to install a sanitary sewer east of South Duff and North of Crystal
Street.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON 1994 CONCRETE REPAIR PROGRAM: Mayor declared hearing open. No
one wishing to speak Mayor declared hearing closed.
Moved by Tedesco, seconded by Parks, to adopt RESOLUTION NO.94-157 approving the plans
and specifications and awarding contract to Knish Construction Company, Inc., in the amount
of $320,656.50 for l994 Concrete Repair Program.
Council Member Hoffman raised a question regarding bike paths along 24th Street pertaining
to snow removal and storage space for snow. Paul Wiegand, Director of Public Works, stated
this was not designated as a year-around path so snow could be placed anywhere. Residents will
be notified by letter.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared carried unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
HEARING ON SNOW/ICE REMOVAL ASSESSMENTS: Mayor Curtis declared the hearing
open. There being no one present wishing to testify, the hearing was declared closed.
Moved by Wirth, seconded by Tedesco to adopt Resolution 94-158 assessing the costs of
snow/ice removal to property owners on the list, instructing the Finance Director to prepare the
spread sheet on these assessments, and directing the City Clerk's Office to file the assessments
with the Story County Treasurer.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
HEARING ON 1915 MUNICIPAL BUILDING: Mayor Curtis declared the hearing open.
Kay Wall, 1004 Kellogg, wants to see Coy's proposal not removed from consideration and
disapproves of the agreement with Wass as long as it includes gutting the interior of the
building. Ms. Wall felt it was an advantage to keep certain ascetics for its development.
Mayor Curtis declared the hearing closed.
Moved by Wirth, seconded by Brown to remove from table the proposal from Greg Coy to
purchase the 1915 Municipal Building.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Brown, seconded by Parks, to reject the proposal from Greg Coy to purchase the 1915
Municipal Building.
Council Members Brown and Parks discussed restoration and historic value in keeping with the
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building. It was felt Mr. Wass's proposal was more in line with keeping the historical value in
the interior.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Wirth, seconded by Tedesco, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 94-159 approving the
revised developer's agreement with Christopher Wass for the sale of the l915 Municipal
Building.
Mr. Schainker spoke regarding the issue of maintenance in the O'Neil parking lot. It was
assured maintenance would be resolved in revised contract. General maintenance will be the
responsibility of the developer during the 15 years of control of the lot. The City has asked to
be named as additional insured and to hold City harmless. Discussion was held on the specific
issues of these elements.
Council Member Brown was concerned about the handling of the potholes in the parking lot. It
was stated that the lessee would be required to maintain the parking lot with the same standards
that are required by the City. John Klaus, City Attorney, stated that if the lessee would have a
breach of contract situation, and the City would need to pursue, a remedy is available and is
outlined in paragraph 9. Mr. Wass would also have the option to contract with city to do the
work.
Christopher Wass, 2509 Grand Avenue, developer, explained Kay Wall's concerns. Mr. Wass
is sensitive to preserving the historic significance of the 1915 Municipal Building. However, he
questioned at what point is it no longer economically feasible to do so. He explained the building
is continuing to rot, and it would be stretching it to try to preserve for historic purposes.
Richard Roseland, architect, explained the exterior plans for renovation. The north side will
provide handicapped accessibility and the inside will maintain it's historic character in the lobby
space.
Mr. Wass stated that when done the building will be much closer to original product. To
approve a warehouse concept offer by Greg Coy would be a step backwards.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
HEARING ON TITLE IX DISASTER RECOVERY GRANT: Pulled at this time.
ORDINANCE PROHIBITING PARKING ON SONDROL AVENUE: Moved by Parks,
seconded by Brown to pass on first reading of an ordinance prohibiting parking on both sides
of Sondrol Avenue from East Lincoln Way to and including the circle at the north end of
Sondrol Avenue.
Moved by Tedesco, seconded by Parks, to suspend the rules required for the adoption of an
ordinance.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Hoffman, seconded by Parks, to pass on second and third readings and adopt
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ORDINANCE NO. 3272 prohibiting parking on both sides of Sondrol Avenue from East
Lincoln Way to and including the circle at the north end of Sondrol Avenue.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Ordinance declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
FIRST PASSAGE OF ORDINANCE DESIGNATING ALTERNATE-SIDE PARKING
RESTRICTIONS ON 12TH STREET: Moved by Wirth, seconded by Campbell for first reading.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
LEAF BURNING: Council Member Hoffman thought when leaf burning was put on agenda there
would be a hearing because it's a major policy change. She believes the message has not gotten
out to the citizens of Ames. Council Member Brown voiced concerns about those that have
many bags of leaves to get rid of. Council Member Tedesco also feels there should be an
alternative policy for the disposal of leaves. Council Member Campbell would like to table in
order to hear discussion from those present. Hopefully, the news media will alert the public to
this issue. Mayor Curtis stated he will veto anyway.
Harry Brown, 1537 Linden Drive, feels the City Council needs to address the concerns on both
sides. He feels the problem has been made worse by State laws regarding yard waste. Leaf
pickup would be appropriate. Mr. Brown supports the effort to make it less onerous for property
owners. The City needs to go after the legislature to allow burning at the Resource Recovery
Plant (allow exemption).
Wilber Buss, 2408 Hayes, felt, environmentally, that if all was outlawed that people are allergic
to - we wouldn't eat well. He's 74 and still enjoys the smell of burning leaves in the fall.
Stan Lassegard, 4103 Quebec, read a letter from Dr. Nassif regarding allergies and asthma,
mostly allergies due to smoke. Last fall was worst he could remember with leaf burning and
expressed his frustration. Mr. Lassegard would like to see a ban on leaf burning. He distributed
the letter from Dr. Nassif.
Moved by Campbell, seconded by Brown to table discussion of the ban on leaf burning.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared passed unanimously.
Council Member Parks clarified the need to propose other alternatives.
Moved by Tedesco, seconded by Parks, to refer the ban on leaf burning to Staff in order to
determine alternatives for the disposal of leaves, and to ask Staff to report back to Council on
this issue by September 1, 1994.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS CLEAN-UP AND RECOVERY ORDINANCE: Moved by
Campbell, seconded by Wirth, to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO. 3271
providing for a plan for the City to clean up hazardous material spills and to recover the costs
associated with the clean-up should the responsible party fail to do so.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Ordinance declared carried unanimously, signed by the Mayor and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
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EXTENSION OF BIDS FOR THE AMES/ISU ICE ARENA PARKING LOT
IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT: Moved by Wirth, seconded by Hoffman, to adopt RESOLUTION
NO. 94-160 accepting the bid extension from Manatt's, Inc., thereby allowing staff time to meet
with ISU administrators, Parks and Recreation Commission, and the Ice Users Committee to
assess if funds should be expended for the parking lot reconstruction project.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by
the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these minutes.
IDOT AGREEMENT FOR RAILROAD SAFETY FUNDING: Moved by Brown, seconded by
Parks, to adopt RESOLUTION NO 94-161 approving IDOT agreement for Railroad Safety
Funding at Clark, Duff, and Kellogg intersections. The intent is to identify the driver and the
vehicle going around the crossing guards. The location of the medians were explained telling
how it would be nearly impossible to go around gate arms. Medians are 4' wide and pose no
problems for snow plows.
Roll Call Vote 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the
Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these minutes.
AGREEMENT WITH C&NW FOR UPGRADING RAILROAD CROSSING SIGNALS:
Moved by Hoffman, seconded by Wirth, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 94-162 approving
agreement with C&NW for upgrading railroad crossing signals at Clark and Kellogg crossings.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the
Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these minutes.
REPORT ON DESIGN EVALUATION FOR NORTHRIDGE PARKWAY SUBDIVISION
STORM SEWER: Moved by Tedesco, seconded by Campbell to approve motion to accept report
on design evaluation for Northridge Parkway Subdivision storm sewer and directing staff to
include in low point drainage prioritizations.
Mr. Schainker asked the staff to re-look at the calculations regarding a five-year storm water
runoff in Northridge Subdivision. It has been designed to meet that requirement. The Staff has
shared that information with the Northridge residents and have not received any comments back
from the neighborhood.
Paul Wiegand reports that individuals on the board looked at variables and responded that they
did not see any problem with design.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
LOW POINT DRAINAGE POLICY: Moved by Brown, seconded by Parks, to adopt
RESOLUTION NO. 94-163 accepting proposed low point drainage policy and directing staff
to apply policy to low point drainage areas.
Council Member Campbell inquired as to how criteria was arrived at. Is 1-4 a pecking order?
Mr. Schainker stated there is a need to establish a standardized policy and shall rank them in the
capital improvement plan to remedy problem areas.
Paul Wiegand stated there is no relationship to priorities; all have equal weights, except for No.
7. He did try to recognize the cause of the problems in drainage areas. There is concern that the
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interpretation of the list gives more credence to assessed properties of more value. Council
Member Hoffman doesn't agree with criteria #1 (assessed property value). Council Member
Campbell is concerned with message it might send. Council Member Hoffman feels #3 and #4
(number of people affected and number of structures exposed to damage) should be placed at
a higher priority. Mayor Curtis feels it won't provide an imbalance on any projects.
Considerable discussion was held on the weighing of assessed total dollars attached to property
and evaluating points. Council Member Parks feels it's a fairly balanced approach. It was stated
that the evaluation system could be changed after trying. Mr. Wiegand stated there is a
multiplier representing the frequency of problem areas.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared carried unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
AMENDMENT TO ARBOR ON THE GREEN SUBDIVISION PUD: Moved by Hoffman,
seconded by Campbell, to approve RESOLUTION NO. 94-164 approving amendment to Arbor
on the Green Subdivision PUD. There being no questions, comments or discussion.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared carried unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
CDP FOR BENTWOOD SUBDIVISION UTILITIES: Mayor Curtis declared the hearing open.
There being no one present wishing to testify, the hearing was declared closed.
Moved by Tedesco, seconded by Parks, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 94-165 approving CDP
for Bentwood Subdivision.
Brian O'Connell, Director of Planning and Housing, stated that the CDP and developer's
agreement were a part of the approval of the subdivision. An overhead was shown to explain
proposal of Bentwood Subdivision. The Subdivision contains 76 acres with 228 lots. Three
water mains will be serving the subdivision; one 12" main extended west on Lincoln Way, one
extended west on Schubert and one coming in on the southern edge of the subdivision. City will
pay cost to extend mains with half of the expense being recovered when property north of
Lincoln Way is developed for the future. The rest of the water mains within the subdivision will
be the responsibility of the developer. The City will be responsible for oversize cost. Regarding
sanitary sewers the developer is to provide easement between lots 1 and 2 to provide sanitary
sewer main capability to Pines Antique Shop property. Storm water management will be
controlled by water discharged into College Creek from overland drainage ditches and
underground mains. A grading plan was shown with a system of detention basins. The
developer will maintain detention basins during course of construction, after that the
responsibility will be assumed by the City. Council Member Brown asked about a possible
maintenance plan for the detention basins. Utility Maintenance is to address that concern.
Brian raised the question regarding the discharge into College Creek. It was made certain with
the developer that this discharge would not be greater than the already existing discharge. The
primary point of access to the subdivision will be off Lincoln Way. The developer is to assume
the responsibility of adding an additional lane on the south side of Lincoln Way. The City is
to assume the cost of the lane to extend into College Creek Subdivision. Developer is to obtain
access easement for Thackeray to extend across Hillside Subdivision into Bentwood. Another
exit would be Wilder Road (an all-weather road), it will likely be a gravel surface then
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improved. The developer is asking for a smaller size right-of-way on the street, with parking
restrictions on streets to apply. A lengthy discussion was held regarding access streets in the
subdivision. Wetland permits are required by the developer before final approval.
Mr. O'Connell went over the stipulations associated with CDP approval. A bike path is being
developed along Lincoln Way and the developer will be responsible.
Mr. O'Connell referred to the developer's agreement which accomplishes two things; it is
designed to articulate the stipulations just alluded to as part of the plat and also sets out financing
arrangements for affordable housing. Shown on the overhead were the location of the 48 lots.
There are 24 homes at $60,000 or less; 24 homes at $80,000 or less as part of the first phase.
The City received a $950,000 special purpose grant from the federal government for the purpose
of paying for infrastructure associated with affordable housing for Ames. Portions of the
agreement were reviewed. Underground utility infrastructure has an estimated cost of $820,000,
street construction estimated at $350,000, cost of widening Lincoln Way at $75,000 and $28,000
estimate for installing electrical infrastructure all totaling $1,273,000 which exceeds the money
the City has available and developer would assume the balance. Methodology of
financing/dispersion of monies associated with affordable housing was discussed. The special
purpose grant will provide $834,000 hard utility/construction cost, the City to provide $103,700
for typical oversite expenses and bringing utilities to the subdivision which leaves a balance to
the developer of $335,300 which will pay for entire cost of the infrastructure for the first phase.
Plat has been reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Commission and recommended to approve
with the stipulations listed. It was noted that items 37 and 38 are addressed together.
Mr. Schainker addressed there is an additional $178,000 of city funds needed to complete the
project outside of grant monies.
Mr. O'Connell then addressed elevations of homes also given in item 38. Discussed were the
different types of homes to be constructed.
Mr. Schainker hopes to have 48 homes constructed within 4 years of the date of agreement and
single family homes will be constructed within 6 years of the date of the agreement.
Vanessa Baker-Latimer, Housing Coordinator, addressed other funding sources that will help
with a down payment and closing costs of $42,000 with an injection of local matched funds. It
will be coming to council also.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared carried unanimously, signed by
the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these minutes.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROGRAM IN BENTWOOD SUBDIVISION: Moved by
Tedesco, seconded by Hoffman to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 94-166 approving developer's
agreement with H&F Builders for Phase III Affordable Housing Program in Bentwood
Subdivision. Mayor asked for discussion, comments, questions.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared carried unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
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SPECIAL PURPOSE GRANT AGREEMENT WITH HUD FOR PHASE III AFFORDABLE
HOUSING PROGRAM: Moved by Brown, seconded by Parks, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 94-
167 authorizing Mayor to sign Special Purpose Grant agreement with HUD for Phase III
Affordable Housing Program.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared carried unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
HEARING ON BENTWOOD SUBDIVISION UTILITIES: Mayor Curtis declared the hearing
open. There being no one present wishing to testify, the hearing was declared closed.
Moved by Tedesco, seconded by Hoffman, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 94-168 approving plans
and specifications and awarding contract to G.M. Contracting in the amount of $819,920.60 for
Bentwood Subdivision Utilities, subject to receipt of affirmative action statement.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared carried unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
Council Member Parks questioned the large difference in bids. Paul Wiegand responded that
neither bidders have done work for the City previously, but GM Contracting had worked in Iowa
and references indicated they were very capable. The price difference was mainly associated
with the sanitary sewer.
MARY GREELEY MEDICAL CENTER EXPANSION: Mayor Curtis declared the hearing
open. There being no one present wishing to testify, the hearing was declared closed.
Moved by Hoffman, seconded by Tedesco, to set date of public hearing for August 9, 1994, to
consider vacating existing platted lots, streets, and alleys for Mary Greeley Medical Center
expansion.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared carried unanimously, signed by
the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these minutes.
John Klaus, City Attorney, stated a meeting date had been set due to time commitments
requested to prepare building permits, drafting plans and specifications.
Merlin Pfannkuch, 1424 Kellogg, stated that the developer's agreement would end if Mary
Greeley would cease to be a municipal. He would like this taken into account and included in
whatever agreement is developed for the future of Mary Greeley. He would still like the
requirement of a ramp to be included. Mr. Pfannkuch expressed concerned about the
intersection of 12th and Kellogg with only one access to the west.
Council Member Hoffman stated she would like an opportunity to tour with staff members to
look at the various ramifications of the area.
Brian O'Connell referred to the action form and clarifications on page 9 and 10 on stipulations
addressing vacating of streets and alleys. The Assessor's office requests this be seen as a two-lot
combining instead of one lot regarding the Medical Arts Building. The hospital would be
responsible for payments for the intersection improvements at 11th/Duff.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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PURCHASE OF CLINIC PROPERTY AT 230 6TH STREET, NEVADA: Mr. Kell, Chief
Financial/Acting Sr. Officer at MGMC., suggested that since City Council had not received
written communications prior to tonight it might be advantageous to table this item.
Mark Power, MGMC Board Member, provided information to Council by means of verbal
presentation and overheads regarding purchase/lease back of the McFarland Clinic office
building in Nevada. The purchase objective would be to maintain a patient base that will
continue to support MGMC's current level of services and to increase access to health care
within delivery region. The medical office building is available in their service area, they would
be reinvesting capital for the benefit of those that have participated in its accumulation,
accessibility to high quality health care would be increased and the return on the investment and
purchase price have been negotiated prudently.
The question was raised regarding who did the appraisal. Mr. Kell responded that the appraisal
had been done approximately one year ago by Holland/Williams-same firm that did the appraisal
on the Medical Arts Building. However, that appraisal is really invalid at this point.
Council Member Campbell asked why they did not go through accepted business procedures to
find out the appraised value. Mr. Kell then provided information he felt justified the $650,000
figure and stated it would cost approximately $3,000 to have another appraisal done. He also
discussed the lease arrangement of the clinic.
The clinic is currently under construction, it is adding a new addition. The exterior work is
completed but interior work is still being done. Work may be completed by June.
Council Member Campbell questioned why this is on the agenda without more information and
without Board approval. Mr. Kell felt prolonged action would cause this to fall through thus
hampering their ability to stay competitive in health care environment. The Hospital Board was
set to vote two weeks ago, but wanted to give more public process time and the Board voted on
it last night. Kell was willing to table until next meeting, however, he stressed that time is of the
essence.
Council Member Tedesco clarified that questions asked are because the ultimate responsibility
lies with each City Council member since they have to make the decision. He would like to
make his decision based on facts. Mr. Kell didn't want Nevada residents to feel it was being
taken off the agenda as an underhanded move.
Council Member Hoffman expressed wanting to work with hospital board, however, in the past
Council has not been provided with background information. Council Member Hoffman agreed
that the suggestion to table is an excellent one. Council Member Campbell agrees as well.
Mark Power commented that the hospital board is trying to be as diligent as possible in
supplying information.
Dennis Henderson, 831 S. 12th, Nevada, City Administrator for Nevada. He would like matter
tabled but for a different reason. Lines are being drawn within the medical community as well
as territorialism. He feels a need to work together between cities and discuss what is best for
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the people of the community. MGMC is a regional hospital and he discussed the beneficial
aspects, wants to see its' success continued but maintain easy access to provision of medical
services. Concerns were discussed that were raised at MGMC's board meeting on April 25. In
everyone's best interest he feels the decision needs to be delayed. It should be determined what
the medical needs are of the region and involve all parties concerned to be beneficial to all.
Betty Jo Harker, MGMC Board Member, 1415 Meadowlane Avenue. Stated the vote by the
MGMC was 3-2 and she was a dissenter. Stated this issue is consistent with the long range plan
of MGMC, however, felt due to the impending change of status of the hospital and certain fiscal
impacts that would follow, it would not be appropriate to enter into an agreement until final
fiscal decisions are made. MGMC serves a regional area - only 36% of patients are from Ames.
She would like to see representation from the region in decisions that affect MGMC. The report
to the Council needs to be shared with Nevada, Story County and the 17 counties it serves.
David Haynes, 5418 Ridgetop Circle, Ames, and Vice President of Donnelly's in Nevada,
addressed the issue of financial numbers obtained and questioned the validity of those numbers.
He was also concerned about the judgment of a governmental unit in one community in the
county to be purchasing facilities for private enterprise for another community within the county.
Kay Wall, 1004 Kellogg. Ms. Wall feels that MGMC is in landlord business. It is not Ames'
responsibility to antagonize the county seat. A hospital within it's own community is very
important. Hospital room rates have shown a 3rd increase in five years. The hospital business
should be making people well, not be in the real estate business.
Mr. Kell addressed Ms. Wall's issuing in expressing that room rates do not support rental reality.
Rates don't have any bearing on land real estate. Mr. Kell addressed the pay-back issue as well.
Council was asked to keep in mind that MGMC is simply fighting for the opportunity to
compete within the health care system. Simply stated his question was, "Will MGMC be
allowed to participate in the network development of physicians in central Iowa?"
Batista Simpson, 912 Kellogg, disagreed with Mr.Kell. It does make a difference to the people
of Nevada. A city hospital doesn't have the right to take over a county hospital. It is important
and it does make a difference.
Rob Cooper, 3 South 4th Ave., Marshalltown., Chief Executive Officer at Marshall Medical and
Surgicals, offered an outside perspective on the issue. For the last 3 years Marshalltown and
Ames have consistently ranked in the top 3 hospitals. There are 9 medical office buildings in
Marshalltown of which the hospital owns five. It is very common for hospitals to own/lease
medical buildings in other communities. Mr. Cooper stated what Doug shared about rapid
changes in health care is true and competition is strong.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared failed.
Moved by Campbell, seconded by Brown, to table this item until the May 10, 1994, regular
Council meeting, thereby allowing Hospital administration time to provide background
information regarding the purchase of the clinic in Nevada.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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SETTING PUBLIC HEARING FOR LEASE OF PURCHASED CLINIC PROPERTY:
Moved by Parks, seconded by Campbell, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 94-169 proposing lease
of City-owned property at 230 6th Street, Nevada, Iowa, to McFarland Clinic, P.C., and setting
date of public hearing for May 10, l994.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made
a portion of these minutes.
SETTING PUBLIC HEARING FOR LEASE OF MEDICAL ARTS BUILDING SPACE TO
G.C. EGELAND, DDS: Moved by Brown, seconded by Tedesco to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 94-
170 proposing lease of Medical Arts Building space to G.C. Egeland, DDS, for three years with
tenant option to renew for second term, and setting date of public hearing for May 10, l994.
Council Member Tedesco questioned the need for additional liability insurance, and would like
to see the lease amended to a $1 million limit and have City named as additional insured. John
Klaus, City Attorney, indicated it can be discussed with prospective tenant.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these minutes.
SETTING PUBLIC HEARING FOR LEASE OF MEDICAL ARTS BUILDING SPACE TO
C. P. GRYTE, M.D.: Moved by Hoffman, seconded by Brown to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 94-
171 proposing lease of Medical Arts Building space to C.P. Gryte, M.D., for three years with
tenant option to renew for second term, and setting date of public hearing for May 10, 1994.
Council Member Tedesco questioned the need for additional liability insurance, and would like
to see the lease amended to a $1 million limit and have City named as additional insured. John
Klaus, City Attorney, indicated it can be discussed with prospective tenant.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these minutes.
DISCUSSION OF PROCESS FOR REVIEW OF HOSPITAL OPTIONS: Council Member
Brown was concerned about citizens having a free discussion with Council regarding hospital
options, it was felt there needed to be several kinds of forums to allow questions, express
concerns, fears, opinions, etc. for understanding where citizens are in their thinking. It takes a
long time for public awareness to be developed, and we need to make that opportunity available.
Council Member Tedesco asked if it were possible to schedule hearings in advance so each
option can be explained. Council Member Brown would like to see a forum beforehand, as it
can be intimidating for people to understand. Council Member Parks agreed with Council
Member Tedesco's suggestion. Council Member Wirth has had presentations, but not taken time
to hear people's concerns and liked the idea of having a forum for questions and concerns first.
Council Member Campbell sees at least 4 presentations, each one of those preceded by a public
reading and discussion so there would be a focused discussion on each issue. Council Member
Tedesco felt we needed to move to a more rapid conclusion. Council Member Hoffman feels
we need to start with basic information for everyone in order to facilitate discussions with people
at all ends of the spectrum, however it may be asking a lot for the general public to come out for
four different meetings. The Council needs to make general information available first. Council
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Member Campbell stated a need was present for various presentations, to invite various
commissions, etc. to ask questions outside of a City Council meeting. Discussion was held
regarding having an open forum after the presentations. It was discussed that having the
presentations first is okay, but the need existed to have public input at the very end of
presentations. Mr.Schainker, City Manager, suggested to modify and have a separate night for
each proposal making it fair to give the same amount of time to each. Council Member
Campbell expressed the need to be more informal than addressing the Council and felt it could
be compressed into a week-2 period.
Merle Prater, 2110 Burnett. Informed Council that he has read "Options for Converting Mary
Greeley Medical Center to a Non-Municipal Hospital", and feels it's an excellent place to start.
"Options" is understandable and well-written. It should be made known that it is available at
the library.
Mr. Schainker stated copies are available at the library, Manager's and Clerk's office, and other
major groups and organizations have copies as well.
Mr. Schainker responded that they may not want to pick specific dates at this time, but decide
on a skeleton date. Two nights of each group - one formal presentation between group, City
Council and public, and one other meeting either before or after Council night to meet in a more
informal setting. Mr. Schainker will work on the scheduling for these meetings - hopefully
starting week of May 9, 1994.
Carol Patterson, 2014 Kildee Street, presented the possibility of bringing back the Boston
consultants as it would be non-biased and could facilitate discussions.
WATER RATES WORKSHOP: Moved by Brown, seconded by Campbell to set May 3, 1994,
at 7:00 p.m. as workshop on water rates.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
GREATER DES MOINES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE/AMES CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE TRIP: Moved by Brown, seconded by Campbell, to authorize Mayor Pro-Tem to
attend Greater Des Moines/Ames Chamber of Commerce Washington, D.C. trip, June 13-15,
l994, and to authorize the expenditure of $1,125 from the Contingency Fund to cover the costs.
The Mayor had received a request from the Chamber of Commerce that someone from the
Council attend this meeting for the purpose of lobbying for Des Moines/Ames corridor and
specific issues related to Ames.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
COMMENTS: Council Member Campbell - reminded the other members of lunch on Friday, May
6, at Noon, in room 235.
Council Member Tedesco - Publicly thanked Dennis Ballantine, the Ames Police Department,
Chief Childs of the Fire Department, Sheriff Fitzgerald, Story County Deputy Auxiliary,
Highway Patrol, City staff, Council people, and Ann Bryant and other co-chairs of VEISHEA
for their great efforts during VEISHEA.
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Council Member Hoffman - Can we put on the agenda the issue of naming a street Carver
Street? Discussion was held and this will be done administratively. Also wanted to comment
that if the City does go to leaf burning, Movies-to-Go and the library have a free video on home
composting. Cy-Ride Transit Board of Trustees has a retreat in May; let her or Mr. Schainker
know of any concerns that might be presented at that retreat. Council was also made aware that
Cy-Ride has now allowed a shuttle from the University to the motels. The DOT has given
approval and several transit routes have been restored and/or extended.
ADJOURNMENT: Meeting adjourned at 10:25 p.m.
_________________________________ _____________________________________
Jill Ripperger, Acting City Clerk Larry R. Curtis, Mayor
_________________________________
Ginger Jones, Recording Secretary
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