HomeMy WebLinkAboutA001 - Extended Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council August 12, 20251
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA AUGUST 12, 2025
The Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor John Haila
at 5:59 p.m. on the 12th day of August, 2025, in the City Council Chambers in City Hall,
515 Clark Avenue, pursuant to law. Present were Council Members Bronwyn Beatty -
Hansen, Gloria Betcher, Amber Corrieri, Tim Gartin, Rachel Junck, and Anita
Rollins. Ex officio Emily Boland joined the meeting electronically.
PRESENTATION: Mayor Haila recognized the City of Ames Animal Shelter and Animal
Control on achieving a 98.55% Save Rate, also known as Live Release Rate for All
Domestic Animals for the 2024 calendar year and presented the award from Best
Friends Animal Society to Animal Control Supervisor Ron Edwards. Supervisor
Edwards was joined by staff and volunteers from the Ames Animal Shelter. He
expressed pride in the program and acknowledged that this achievement would not be
possible without the support of the City Council, City Manager, Chief of Police , and his
team.
CONSENT AGENDA: Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to approve the consent
agenda.
2. Motion approving payment of claims
3. Motion approving Report of Change Orders for period of July 16-31, 2025
4. Motion approving Summary of Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting on
July 22, 2025, and Minutes of the Special City Council Meeting on July 23, 2025
5. Motion approving Civil Service Candidates
6. Motion approving Ownership Update for Class F Retail Alcohol License -
Green Hills Residents' Association, 2200 Hamilton Drive, Ste. 100
7. Motion approving Ownership Update for Special Class C Retail Alcohol
License - Northcrest Community, 1801 20th Street
8. Motion approving Premises Update for Class E Retail Alcohol License -
Kum & Go #0217, 3111 South Duff Avenue
9. Motion approving new Class C Retail Liquor License - Monterrey Mexican
Restaurant, 823 Wheeler Street
10. Motion approving new Class B Retail Alcohol License - Hy-Vee Ames Pop
Up Shop, 1472 South 4th Street
11. Motion approving new 5-Day (September 8-12, 2025) Class C Retail Alcohol
License with Outdoor Service - Hy-Vee #2, 1407 University Boulevard, Farm to
Table
12. Motion approving new 5-Day (September 13-17, 2025) Class C Retail Alcohol
License with Outdoor Service - Hy-Vee #2, 1407 University Boulevard, Botanical
Bash
13. Motion approving new 5-Day (September 16-20, 2025) Special Class C
Retail Alcohol License - Apres Bar Co, 1930 East 13th Street
14. Motion approving new 5-Day (September 9-13, 2025) Special Class C Retail
Alcohol License - Apres Bar Co, 2321 North Loop Drive
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15. Motion approving the renewal of the following Beer Permits, Wine Permits,
and Liquor Licenses:
a. Inside Golf, 2801 Grand Avenue #1075, Class C Retail Alcohol License,
Pending Dramshop Review
b. Iowa State Center – CY Stephens, ISU, Class C Retail Alcohol
License with Catering Privilege and Outdoor Service, Pending Dramshop
Review
c. Kwik Stop Liquor & Groceries, 125 6th Street, Class E Retail Alcohol
License
16. RESOLUTION NO. 25-416 approving Quarterly Investment Report for period
ending June 30, 2025
17. RESOLUTION NO. 25-392 approving Commission on the Arts (COTA) Fall
2025 Special Project Grant contracts
18. RESOLUTION NO. 25-393 setting August 26, 2025, as date of public
hearing to grant gas pipeline easement on City of Ames property at 601 S.
Maple Avenue
19. RESOLUTION NO. 25-394 awarding contract to Petrotech Inc., of New
Orleans, LA, for Combustion Turbine Controls Upgrade, in the amount of
$1,213,252.67 (inclusive of sales tax)
20. RESOLUTION NO. 25-395 awarding contract to Workspace, Inc. (Iowa Office
Interiors), of Ames, IA, for new office furniture for Water & Pollution Control in
the amount of $156,703.99
21. RESOLUTION NO. 25-396 awarding a contract to Dinges Fire Company of
Amboy, IL, in the amount of $70,795 for turnout gear for the Fire Department
22. RESOLUTION NO. 25-397 approving contract and bond for the CyRide
Facility Fire Suppression Improvement Project with Henkel Construction
Company, of Ames, IA, in the amount of $227,600
23. RESOLUTION NO. 25-398 awarding a contract to RESCO of Ankeny, IA, for
the purchase of shims, brackets, and steel light poles for Electric Services in
the amount of $56,743.11
24. RESOLUTION NO. 25-399 approving Detour Agreement with Iowa Department
of Transportation for US 30 Pavement Project
25. RESOLUTION NO. 25-400 approving Iowa Department of Transportation
Preconstruction Agreement for Sanitary Sewer Relocation
26. RESOLUTION NO. 25-401 approving Professional Services Agreement with
WHKS, of Ames, IA, for 2025/26 Concrete Street Pavement Improvements
Program in an amount not-to-exceed $321,000
27. RESOLUTION NO. 25-402 approving Change Order No. 1 with Wulfekuhle
Injection & Pumping, of Peosta, IA, for Excavation and Hauling Services for
Electric Services in an amount not-to-exceed $200,000
28. 2020/21 Arterial Pavement Improvements E 13th St (Duff Ave to Meadowlane
Ave):
a. RESOLUTION NO. 25-403 approving Change Order No. 1 in the deduct
amount of $55,427.87
b. RESOLUTION NO. 25-404 accepting 2020/21 Arterial Pavement
Improvements (E 13th St) as completed by Con-Struct, Inc, of Ames, IA, in
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the amount of $2,878,865.03
29. RESOLUTION NO. 25-405 approving Change Order No. 5 with Woodruff
Construction, of Ames, IA, for the Water Pollution Control Facility Nutrient
Reduction Modifications Phase 1 Project in the deduct amount of $40,743.03
30. RESOLUTION NO. 25-406 approving submittal of an Iowa Department of
Natural Resources (DNR) Resource Enhancement and Protection grant
application in the amount of $200,000 for the Moore Memorial Park Bridge
Project
31. RESOLUTION NO. 25-407 approving application to Iowa Department of Natural
Resources (DNR) Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) program in
the amount of $200,000 for the Ontario Park Pedestrian Bridge Project
32. RESOLUTION NO. 25-408 approving the submittal of Energy Efficiency and
Conservation Block Grant for an Electric Vehicle Charging Station for up to
$156,000
33. RESOLUTION NO. 25-409 approving partial completion of public improvements
and reducing financial security on file for Ansley Subdivision 1st Addition to
$114,921
34. RESOLUTION NO. 25-410 approving Final Plat for The Bluffs at Dankbar Farms
4th Addition, Acceptance of the Public Improvements Agreement, and
Extension of Private Pocket Park Date of Completion
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motions/Resolutions declared carried/adopted unanimously, signed
by the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
PUBLIC FORUM: Mayor Haila opened the Public Forum.
Jamie Beyer addressed the City Council regarding the treatment of ash trees for
Emerald Ash Borer in the City of Ames. He expressed concern that the chemical
treatments being used to protect ash trees from Emerald Ash Borer also kill beneficial
pollinators that feed on the trees and urged the City Council to cease chemical
treatment.
Mayor Haila then closed the Public Forum when no one else came forward to speak.
FY 2026/27 CITY ANALYSIS OF SOCIAL SERVICES EVALUATION TEAM (ASSET)
PRIORITIES: Assistant City Manager Pa Vang Goldbeck presented the FY 2026/27
ASSET funding priorities. She explained that it is customary for each of the ASSET
funding partners, which included the City, the County, United Way of Story County, and
Iowa State University (ISU) Student Government, to revisit the funding priorities during
the summer and establish priorities for the upcoming year. This year, the process was
delayed as there was an attempt to bring all the partners together to develop joint
funding priorities. Unfortunately, a consensus could not be reached among the partners.
In response to this delay and lack of consensus, Assistant City Manager Goldbeck
presented a modified version of the priorities approved last year. The most significant
changes in this modified version included explicitly calling out homelessness as one of
the main areas of focus. Given the growing recognition of homelessness as a community
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issue in Ames, it was deemed necessary to highlight this area. Another notable change
was the decision to eliminate disaster response from naming in the priority areas.
Disaster response had been an area where lower amounts of ASSET funds had been
directed. This was not to downplay the importance of disaster response, but rather an
acknowledgment that it had not been heavily funded through City ASSET dollars.
Additionally, the terminology employed in the funding priorities was simplified. There had
been previous confusion and inconsistency due to the varying terms used by the four
different funders. Thus, an effort was made to align the language across the different
partners to create clarity.
Council Member Betcher posed a question regarding when the partners would return to
a discussion of joint funding priorities. In response, Assistant City Manager Goldbeck
detailed future plans. She noted that one of the things that all the funding partners
wanted was to look at longer-term discussions focused on outcome-based goals for the
ASSET process. To address this, a subcommittee had been recommended, which would
consist of a subset of members from each participating funding entity. She shared that
the plan for August was for staff to work through what that could look like, and she
anticipated coming before the City Council again in September to discuss the next steps.
Council Member Rollins noted that the order of the priorities in the Council Action Form
differed from that in the modified version. Assistant City Manager Goldbeck provided
historical context, explaining that in previous years, mental health had topped the list,
followed by basic needs. The proposed change to reverse this order came during
discussions with the funding partners, indicating that basic needs were perceived as the
top priority by many.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-411
approving a modified version of the FY 2025/26 priorities as the FY 2026/27 City
Analysis of Social Services Evaluation Team Priorities.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor,
and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
STAFF REPORT ON RESIDENTIAL CURBSIDE RECYCLING: Public Works Director
Justin Clausen, Resource Recovery Superintendent Mark Peebler, and Sustainability
Coordinator Nolan Sagan informed the City Council on options for a curbside recycling
program that would support the development of the Resource Recovery and Recycling
Campus (R3C) as well as progress the Climate Action Plan (CAP). Director Clausen
began by clarifying that staff was not seeking direction from the City Council at this
meeting. Instead, the intent of staff was to discuss the potential structure of the curbside
recycling program with the plan to return in September for direction after the City Council
had time to consider the information.
The context for considering changes in waste management was explained by Director
Clausen. He highlighted that as staff moved forward with closing the Resource Recovery
Plant, the city's waste diversion methods would need to evolve. Currently, diversion was
primarily achieved through waste-to-energy incineration. However, looking toward the
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future, residential recycling would become a primary method of diversion. He shared that
in the 2023 Annual Resident Satisfaction Survey, over 80% of respondents favored
recycling in some form.
Coordinator Sagan then elaborated on ten key issues for consideration regarding the
curbside recycling program. Firstly, he discussed the level of access and described four
options. The first option proposed universal access, where every residence would receive
a cart and be charged accordingly. The second option involved a universal charge with an
opt-in system for the cart, meaning every residence would be charged, but only those that
chose to participate would receive a cart. The third option was an opt-in program, where
only those who opted in would be charged and receive a cart. This particular option was
not recommended by staff robust community involvement was needed for success. The
final option was to continue with the existing system, which only offered drop-off recycling.
Staff recommended the first or second option, with Coordinator Sagan noting that the City
would still maintain a free drop-off site at the R3C regardless of which option was
selected.
Next, Coordinator Sagan addressed the question of service providers, presenting two
options. The first option was to require existing haulers to provide curbside recycling. The
second option, which was recommended by the staff, involved establishing a citywide
contract with a single provider. This approach was expected to result in lower fees,
consistent service and rules, reduced truck traffic, and better tracking of diversion rates.
The timeline for implementation was then discussed. It would take approximately nine to
12 months from the issuance of a Request for Proposals (RFP) to start up the service.
The R3C facility was projected to be operational by mid-2027, which could result in a gap
of about 6 months during which recycling materials would need to be hauled to Des
Moines.
There was an exploration of container ownership with three options presented. Option 1
proposed contractor ownership of the containers; Option 2 involved City ownership; and
the recommended Option 3 involved City-branded containers furnished by the contractor,
with the City assuming ownership after 5 years.
Regarding the frequency of service, staff recommended bi-weekly over weekly service.
This approach was highlighted as more efficient and cost-effective while still achieving
diversion targets. In terms of contractor compensation, Coordinator Sagan explained that
this would be determined through the RFP process. It would encompass hauling services,
disposal costs, equipment costs, and administrative costs.
For multifamily housing, the initial program would service properties with up to four units,
covering approximately 60% of housing. The remaining 40% would be addressed
beginning with a pilot project aimed at understanding the unique challenges posed by
recycling in multifamily settings. It was noted that Story County partner communities
would be obliged to participate in recycling. This participation could occur through mobile
drop-off trailers, their own curbside programs, or by joining Ames' recycling contract.
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Staff recommended including incentives or penalties within the recycling contract to
maintain high levels of service quality. Education and outreach were also emphasized as
vital for maximizing participation and minimizing contamination. The City Council
members posed various questions regarding current garbage service requirements,
managing contamination, space concerns, comparisons to similar-sized cities, and
potential expansion to include commercial recycling and composting in the future. Council
Member Beatty-Hansen inquired if the current system required households to have
garbage service and whether that could influence recycling participation. She also asked
if there would be penalties for contamination in recycling bins, similar to fines imposed by
some haulers currently, and emphasized the importance of educational efforts before
considering such measures.
Additional concerns were raised about space constraints for recycling bins, particularly for
townhome communities with limited space. It was suggested that the City consider
options to accommodate residents with less capacity for additional bins. The City Council
also expressed interest in Iowa State's high success rate with recycling and discussed
possible partnerships to align citywide recycling efforts. Finally, the City Council voiced
general support for exploring future options for commercial recycling and composting,
noting the significant impact these initiatives could have on reducing the city’s waste
stream.
Council Member Gartin expressed the need for involving the public in shaping the future
of the recycling program. He discussed strategic communications methods to ensure the
public was informed about program details and options presented by staff. He
emphasized openness to feedback and the preference to gather comprehensive public
insights prior to formalizing any decisions regarding the program's path forward.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Rollins, to direct staff to develop a plan for communicating
changes to the recycling program and provide methods for Public Input.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
REQUEST FOR SANITARY SEWER CONNECTION FROM MAPLE GROVE MOBILE
HOME PARK: Municipal Engineer Mindy Bryngelson discussed a request from Maple
Grove Mobile Home Park for connection to the municipal sanitary sewer. She highlighted
that the City recently completed a sanitary sewer extension project from the west end of
Norris Street to approximately 500 feet south of Lincoln Way, along the west edge of the
S. 500th Avenue right-of-way. During and after construction of the sewer main, staff
received multiple inquiries from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and
three nearby property owners located outside the City limits, including Maple Grove,
regarding abandoning their existing septic systems and connecting to the new public
sewer.
Recent testing of College Creek showed higher E. coli levels, Engineer Bryngelson
reviewed, and microbial source tracking in June confirmed the source was primarily
human, suggesting contamination from septic systems in the area. The City Council was
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presented with two options to address the request: 1) Develop a rural sewer service
agreement or 2) Annex all six properties.
Discussion among City Council members regarding annexation complications brought
additional details. Planning and Housing Director Kelly Diekmann highlighted challenges
likely to arise, especially with regards to voluntary annexation involving all property
owners, while ensuring infrastructure maintenance. He emphasized uncertainty in
determining if existing substructures would be up to City standards upon potential
annexation.
The City Council members also discussed the minimum flow rates needed to ensure
waste materials would remain suspended in the line, preventing future maintenance
issues. It was noted by Engineer Bryngelson that each option should consider long-term
sustainability, particularly in growth strategy terms beyond imminent properties benefiting
from extensions. Members of the City Council also contemplated possible future structural
requirements dealing with operational suitability and existing agricultural infrastructures.
City Attorney Mark Lambert, prompted by concerns over annexations issues at The Irons,
brought attention to buyer awareness obligations among property owners considering
connections should the City Council choose Option 1. Being proactive toward obligational
transparency and clarity in agreements were crucial, substantiating prospective consumer
protection measures to avoid any discrepancies faced in previous situations.
The Public Input was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to
speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Betcher, to approve Alternative 1: direct staff to develop
a rural sewer service agreement that would allow Maple Grove Mobile Home Park and
other nearby properties to connect to the City’s sanitary sewer system without
annexation.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
NEW POWER PLANT SITE: Director of Electric Services Donald Kom and Assistant
Director of Electric Services Curtis Spence reviewed potential sites for the new power plant,
following a previous request from the City Council to examine alternatives to the initially
proposed Coal Yard site. The presentation addressed key siting criteria necessary for the
new power plant, emphasizing requirements such as extensive natural gas availability with
specific line size and pressure, essential proximity and connectivity to existing 161 kV
transmission lines, and overall distance considerations from residential areas as well as
visibility concerns.
Several alternative sites were reviewed by Director Kom. He assessed the financial and
logistical implications to screen each potential site. Potential sites, including locations in
Northwest Ames and East Ames, presented cost increases of approximately $24.5 million
and $24 million respectively, due to additional infrastructure needs. Additionally, the East
Ames site involved a different set of challenges with multiple landowners and significant
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infrastructure changes throughout the process. Director Kom then discussed a potential
location northeast of the Target property, highlighting land preparation challenges due to
the site’s location in the flood way.
Director Kom shared that staff ultimately supported the previously considered Coal Yard
site as the most suitable and efficient location for the new power plant for several reasons.
The site was naturally adjacent to existing substations, minimizing additional infrastructure
needs. The City also possessed comprehensive access and rights to the necessary gas
supply, effectively eliminating substantial new utility preparation costs. Furthermore, the
site's existing possession by the City negates costly land procurement issues, and water
and sanitary utilities were already available on-site, streamlining the preparation process for
site permitting at the regional level.
To address concerns from the City Council and public, Director Kom provided visual
simulations demonstrating how the plant would appear from various angles on Main Street.
The simulations revealed that from main vantage points, only the power stacks would be
visible, with opportunities for these to be screened by landscaping to minimize aesthetic
disruption. Examples of successfully integrated, aesthetically appealing power plants in
other locations like Holland, Michigan, were highlighted during the presentation to illustrate
design possibilities that could blend attractively within the community.
Addressing specific concerns about sound and vibration, Assistant Director Spence
provided analyses showing compliance with City sound requirements using modern design
and technology. Importantly, the new design would eliminate cooling towers, which were
significant noise contributors at the existing facility. Additionally, the foundational designs
would address and mitigate any vibration transmission concerns, ensuring reliability and
harmony with surrounding structures.
In financial discussions, Finance Director Corey Goodenow presented proposed rate
increases imposed on customers for the projected cost of the new power plant should the
City Council select the Coal Yard. He illustrated the effect by comparing FY 2025/26 rates
to projected FY 2034/35 rates by customer class and usage level.
Director Kom and Assistant Director Spence reviewed the critical timing of creating new
generation so the utility could avoid costly investment in replacement capacity from the
open market. Staff outlined the permitting process, highlighting that regulatory approvals
would require comprehensive site evaluations to ensure compliance with environmental
and infrastructural standards. Director Kom emphasized that the proximity of the Coal Yard
to existing power infrastructure and substation facilities will likely streamline these
evaluations. He concluded that if the City misses this expedited process, project approval
could be delayed by several years due to extensive review backlogs from other renewable
projects.
The City Council members engaged in robust conversation regarding the logistics of the
site and permitting process before Mayor Haila opened the Public Input.
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Jamie Beyer, a former Power Plant operator, raised the topic of potential noise from
engine startups at the new site.
Stephen Schallehn voiced concerns about the noise from the existing plant affecting
musical performances at Bandshell Park. He favored the Prairie View Industrial
Complex site over the Coal Yard, suggesting that it could facilitate future expansion
possibilities and the incorporation of newer technologies like solar and battery storage.
Melanie Rogotzke expressed support for the Coal Yard site. She noted positive
neighbor experiences with the utility, including communication and quick power
restoration during outages.
Mayor Haila closed the Public Input when no one else came forward to speak.
The City Council members then discussed several questions, covering topics like potential
carbon capture integration, the feasibility of future technology expansions, and aesthetic
design directions that could visually enhance the facility within the neighborhood.
Favoring clear and consistent logistical advantages toward efficiency and careful
consideration of broader community and financial impacts, members of the City Council
expressed support for the Coal Yard site. The City Council members exhibited an interest
in engaging professional services for developing similar aesthetically compelling design
options as seen in the Holland, Michigan, power plant. It was suggested that the design
process prioritize creative architectural solutions along with sustainable operations and cost
management, inviting future community involvement for consultative design phases.
Director Kom informed the City Council of the proposed schedule for design services,
highlighting that staff would take the suggestions received under advisement.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to approve Alternative 1: select the Ames
Power Plant Coal Yard site as the preferred location for new generation.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR RECIPROCATING INTERNAL COMBUSTION
ENGINE (RICE) ELECTRIC GENERATION FACILITY: Director Kom noted that staff
was requesting to table this item for further contract negotiations.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to table the item to a future agenda.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The meeting was recessed by Mayor Haila at 8:35 p.m. and reconvened at 8:41 p.m.
SOUTH LINCOLN MIXED USE (S-SMD) ZONING DISTRICT TEXT AMENDMENT
REQUEST: Director of Planning and Housing Kelly Diekmann presented a request from a
property owner in the South Lincoln Mixed Use Area for text amendments to the zoning
district that would create changes to the design standards. He noted that the requested
amendment would apply to all properties in the district, not just the property of the
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requestor. Director Diekmann highlighted that the staff had concerns about making text
amendments that might benefit only one property, raising potential issues in setting a
precedent for similar requests in the future.
The City Council discussed the long-term implications of altering standards that apply
district-wide. Concerns were raised about unintended consequences on the overall
character of the area, especially how uniformity in setbacks might be affected. Director
Diekmann recommended that if the City Council was to approve the request, it would be
more prudent to limit it to single and two-family homes. Limiting the request would prevent
unintended impacts on building types like apartments or commercial properties that also
reside within the zoning district.
In deliberation, the City Council considered whether the changes would have broader
neighborhood benefits, not just individual property gain, recognizing potential for
architectural flexibility versus maintaining consistency with established design standards.
The importance of enabling property improvements was weighed against the implications
of modifying zoning regulations for an area known for its transitional zoning challenges.
The Public Input was opened by Mayor Haila.
Jim Gregory, the requestor, explained that he and his wife had lived in their home for 25
years and wanted to tear it down to build a single -level house where they, along with his
mother-in-law, could age in place. He explained that the 25-foot side setback on their
60-foot-wide corner lot significantly limited their buildable area.
The Public Input was closed by Mayor Haila when no one else came forward to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to approve Option 2: Accept an application by
Mr. Gregory for text amendments to S-SMD consistent with the description in this
report, but only for single- and two-family homes for:
a. the setbacks,
b. the building form width requirement, and
c. the roof requirement.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to amend the motion to include the recessed
façade and apply the standards to single- and two-family homes.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
FIRE STATION #2 RELOCATION: Fire Chief Rich Higgins and Fleet Services
Director Corey Mellies reviewed the report on Fire Station No. 2 relocation, focusing on
net-zero options for the building design. Chief Higgins explained that in April, the City
awarded a contract to Brown Watford Architects (BRW) to develop schematic designs,
give preliminary cost estimates including net-zero ready options, and create a timeline
for a potential bond referendum.
Director Mellies explained that the major cost factor for net-zero readiness is the
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square footage needed to accommodate the equipment. He presented three options
with associated costs: 1) Non Net-Zero Building, 2) Net-Zero Capable Building, or 3)
Net-Zero Ready Building. He noted that the new building for Fire Station No. 2 would
be comparable to the size of Fire Station No. 1, which uses about $12,000 in utilities
annually and produces about 62 metric tons of carbon emissions. A Net Zero-Ready
building would eliminate approximately 60 metric tons of carbon emissions per year.
The return on investment for solar or geothermal was estimated by staff to be
approximately a 15–20-year period. He concluded that the geothermal components
would likely have a long service life, compared to traditional systems.
The City Council members engaged in debate regarding the merits of investing in net -
zero readiness now versus waiting. Council members were divided over the long -term
benefits, costs, and timing considerations. Some members expressed concern about
the risk of equipment potentially becoming outdated, while others emphasized the
importance of taking climate action quickly, and the need for municipal leadership in
climate related issues. There was discussion on whether to invest in immediate
capability with installed equipment or a future -ready building to allow future councils to
act on changing technologies.
Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Input when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Junck, to approve Option 1: direct staff to have
the architect design a Net-Zero Ready building.
Vote on Motion: 4-2. Voting Aye: Beatty-Hansen, Betcher, Junck, and Rollins. Voting Nay:
Corrieri and Gartin. Motion declared carried.
HEARING ON A ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT TO AMEND THE PUD OVERLAY
OPEN SPACE STANDARD FOR INFILL SITES: Director Diekmann explained that the
proposed text amendment would create an exception to the common open space
requirement for single-family attached housing on infill sites. Currently, the PUD
overlay required common open space for all housing types, but staff believed it to be
inefficient for infill townhome projects.
The Public Hearing was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward
to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to pass on first reading an ordinance regarding
a Zoning Text Amendment to Amend the PUD Overlay Open Space Standard for Infill
Sites.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON 400 S 4TH STREET REZONE FOR A 16-UNIT PLANNED UNIT
DEVELOPMENT (PUD) WITH MAJOR SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND A
PRELIMINARY PLAT: Planner Justin Moore presented a request to rezone property at
400 South 4th Street for a 16-unit townhome project with the SSMD base zone and a
PUD overlay. The project requested deviations from standard requirements, including a
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reduction in the front yard setback to 10 feet and a reduction in the rear yard setback to
15 feet. Planner Moore showed elevations of the proposed north buildings, noting that
the developer had designed the units with dormers and covered stoops facing S 4th
Street, which would project into the setback as an allowed exception. In contrast, the
south elevation featured garage access with non-standard length driveways.
The City Council members posed questions about the presented front setback and its
comparison to other housing areas, like the Baker Subdivision, which had similar but
slightly greater setback distances. Planner Moore confirmed the Baker Subdivision
faced comparable design decisions with a setback of 15 feet. Members of the City also
addressed concerns surrounding existing driveway parking capacities and the
availability of off-street parking. Director Diekmann explained that each townhome was
designed with a standard 20x20 two car garage and that parking would not be
permitted on the private street that created access to the south elevation.
Mayor Haila opened the Public Hearing.
Matthew Corey of Stubbs Engineering advocated on behalf of the developer concerning
the requested deviations, specifically the setback requirements.
Mayor Haila closed the Public Hearing when no one else came forward to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to pass on first reading an ordinance rezoning
to S-SMD with a PUD Overlay for 400 South 4 th Street with the proposed Planned Unit
Development (PUD) and Major Site Development Plan.
Council Member Gartin expressed the opinion that developmental projects like this were
a forward step toward the City's housing objectives and demonstrated responsiveness
to innovative, intensified housing needs.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-412 approving
Preliminary Plat.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor,
and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON 2024/25 MULTI-MODAL ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS (6TH STREET,
NORTH OF CITY HALL): Director Clausen was available for questions.
The Public Hearing was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward
to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to approve the report of bids.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-413
approving final plans and specifications and awarding a contract to MidState
Solution, LLC of Baxter, Iowa, in the amount of $125,151.50.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor,
and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON 2024/25 WATER SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM (E. 14TH
ST & MEADOWLANE AVE) PROJECT: Director Clausen was available for questions.
Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Hearing when no one came forward to
speak.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Rollins, to approve the report of bids.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-414
approving final plans and specifications and awarding a contract to Jet Drain Services,
LLC, of Ames, Iowa, in the amount of $314,426.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor,
and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING FOR APPROVAL OF 2025-2026 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN FOR
THE CITY'S COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT (CDBG) & HOME PROGRAMS:
Housing Coordinator Vanessa Baker-Latimer presented the 2025-2026 Annual Action
Plan for the City's Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME
programs. She started by explaining the process staff undertook to gather public input
and develop the Plan. Public forums were held in March 2025 to solicit ideas from the
community, and the feedback gathered was presented to the City Council in May 2025.
Key suggestions included adding public infrastructure for nonprofit organizations,
exploring bus and swimming passes for students, and continuing efforts to provide
affordable housing.
After the May 2025 meeting, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
(HUD) informed the City of its 2025-2026 allocation, which included increases for both
CDBG and HOME funds. Housing Coordinator Baker-Latimer detailed the
recommended projects for the year, which included continuing the Renter Affordability
Program, Home Buyer Assistance Program, Single-Family Rehabilitation Program,
Public Infrastructure Improvements for sidewalk repair, and the Disposition of
Properties.
Additionally, funding was allocated to the Public Facilities Improvement Program for the
Pocket Park at the Baker Subdivision and public infrastructure water system
improvements program in the LMI Census Tract 10. A Public Facilities Rehabilitation
Program for area nonprofits funded through the Analysis of Social Services Evaluation
Team (ASSET) was also introduced, aiming to assist those owning their facilities with
necessary repairs and improvements.
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Housing Coordinator Baker-Latimer emphasized the increase in funding for HOME
programs, which had not seen such allocation growth in eight years. Regarding
potential federal budget cuts to CDBG and HOME funds, Housing Coordinator Baker-
Latimer responded to an inquiry from Council Member Gartin, highlighting that initial
budget plans projected the elimination of funding for HOME programs and reductions
to funding for CDBG programs.
Council Member Betcher inquired about the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)
survey for the Public Infrastructure Water System Improvements Program, which
Housing Coordinator Baker-Latimer confirmed had already been completed, minimizing
potential delays for future projects.
Housing Coordinator Baker-Latimer shared that only one public comment was received
during the comment period, expressing interest in recycling programs, which was
directed to the relevant City staff for a prompt response. She concluded by assuring
the City Council that staff was on track to meet the HUD submission deadline of August
16, 2025.
Mayor Haila then opened the Public Hearing, and seeing no public comments, the
Public Hearing was subsequently closed.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-415
approving the submittal of 2025-2026 CDBG/HOME Annual Action Plan.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor,
and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON REZONING OF PROPERTY LOCATED AT 2715 DAYTON AVENUE
FROM AGRICULTURAL (A) TO GOVERNMENT/AIRPORT DISTRICT (S-GA): Mayor
Haila opened and closed the Public Hearing when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to pass on first reading an ordinance rezoning
property located at 2715 Dayton Avenue from Agricultural (A) to Government/Airport
District (S-GA).
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 28 OF MUNICIPAL
CODE FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY BUYBACK PROGRAM: Moved by Betcher,
seconded by Rollins, to pass on second reading of an ordinance amending Chapter 28
of Municipal Code for Renewable Energy Buyback Program.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Gartin, to suspend the rules to allow third reading and
adoption of an ordinance amending Chapter 28 of Municipal Code for Renewable
Energy Buyback Program.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to pass on third reading and adopt
ORDINANCE NO. 4566 amending Chapter 28 of Municipal Code for Renewable
Energy Buyback Program.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
SECOND READING OF ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT TO CREATE A PARTIAL
PAVING EXCEPTION FOR LONG DRIVEWAYS EXCEEDING 300 FEET: Moved by
Rollins, seconded by Betcher, to pass on second reading of an ordinance regarding a
Zoning Text Amendment to create a partial paving exception for long driveways
exceeding 300 feet.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Rollins, seconded by Betcher, to suspend the rules to allow third reading and
adoption of an ordinance regarding a Zoning Text Amendment to create a partial paving
exception for long driveways exceeding 300 feet.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to pass on third reading and adopt
ORDINANCE NO.4567 regarding a Zoning Text Amendment to create a partial paving
exception for long driveways exceeding 300 feet.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
THIRD READING AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 4564 REZONING
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 57258 220TH STREET (EAST 13TH STREET) FROM
AGRICULTURAL (A) TO GENERAL INDUSTRIAL (GI): Moved by Betcher, seconded
by Beatty-Hansen, to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO. 4564 rezoning
property located at 57258 220th Street (East 13th Street) from Agricultural (A) to
General Industrial (GI).
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
THIRD READING AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 4565 MODIFYING
DRIVEWAY DIMENSIONS AND SPACING: Moved by Rollins, seconded by Beatty-
Hansen, to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO. 4565 modifying
driveway dimensions and spacing.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
DISPOSITION OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: Mayor Haila noted that there
were four items to consider. The first was a Request for Zoning Text Amendment
Related to Landscaping from Michele Farnham, ISU Research Park Facilities Manager.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to refer the item to staff for a memo.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Information on Emerald Ash Borer Treatment Methods and Native Pollinators from
Jamie Beyer, Pollinator-Friendly Community Task Force Member, was the second item.
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Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Corrieri, to refer the item to staff for a memo.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
An update from Housing Coordinator Vanessa Baker-Latimer regarding the status of the
Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) CDBG -CV Grant Fund Award to the City
of Ames on Behalf of The Bridge Home was noted by Mayor Haila as being for
information only.
The final item was from Director Diekmann concerning a request for a Zoning Text
Amendment to the Improvement of Off-Street Parking Areas and Driveways Standards
for Ag Equipment.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Junck, to place the item on a future agenda.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
REPORT OF GOVERNING BODY: Council Member Betcher reported that Greene
County had been added to the Ames Regional Economic Alliance. No other updates
were discussed.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Ex officio Boland participated remotely and shared her
excitement about returning in person for upcoming meetings. She expressed her
eagerness to engage with the City Council and the Ames community face-to-face.
Council Member Betcher shared her recent experience volunteering at the "Wall That
Heals" event in Nevada. She highlighted the significance of the event, noting that it was
a moving and impactful experience that brought together many people, including
numerous residents from Ames. Betcher emphasized the importance of the event in
raising awareness about Agent Orange.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Gartin, seconded by Rollins, to adjourn at 10:01 p.m.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
_______________________________ _______________________________
Carly M. Watson, Deputy City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
_______________________________
Renee Hall, City Clerk