HomeMy WebLinkAboutA001 - November 18, 2025, Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council, Extended Minutes1
MINTUES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA NOVEMBER 18, 2025
The Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor John Haila
at 6:24 p.m. on the 18th day of November, 2025, in the City Council Chambers in City
Hall, 515 Clark Avenue, immediately following the adjournment of the Joint Meeting of
the Ames City Council and Ames Human Relations Commission, pursuant to law.
Present were Council Members Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen, Gloria Betcher, Tim Gartin,
Rachel Junck, and Anita Rollins. Ex officio Emily Boland was also present. Council
Member Amber Corrieri was absent.
PROCLAMATION FOR "NATIONAL HUNGER AND HOMELESSNESS AWARENESS
WEEK," NOVEMBER 16- 22, 2025: Mayor Haila proclaimed November 16-22, 2025, as
national Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week. The proclamation noted that for
31 years, a national coalition has sponsored this week to educate the public about
hunger and homelessness issues, including a shortage of affordable housing for very
low-income residents. The proclamation recognized many local organizations
committed to sheltering and providing support services to residents, including ACCESS,
The Bridge Home, Food at First, Good Neighbor Emergency Assistance, Mid Iowa
Community Action (MICA), Story County Community Services, The Hunger
Collaboration, The Salvation Army, Story County Veterans Affairs, Youth and Shelter
Services (YSS), and various area nonprofits, agencies, churches, and food pantries.
Housing Coordinator Vanessa Baker-Latimer accepted the proclamation, thanking the
Mayor and City Council for recognizing the week. She noted the importance of
community support for agencies providing critical services to those in need, especially
during the recent lapse in SNAP program benefits when the community stepped up to
provide food and shelter.
CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Rollins requested to pull Item No. 9: Resolution
amending Council's Standards of Decorum to require persons speaking to identify
themselves and Item No. 30: Plat of Survey (Boundary Line Adjustment) for Properties
Generally Located at the Intersection of County Line Road and Lincoln Highway,
including 632 and 634 N 500th and 5507 and 5815 Lincoln Highway.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Betcher, to approve the consent agenda less
Item No. 9 and Item No. 30.
2. Motion approving payment of claims
3. Motion approving Report of Change Orders for period of October 16 -31, 2025
4. Motion approving Summary of Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting on
October 28, 2025
5. Motion approving Civil Service Candidates
6. Motion approving the renewal of the following Beer Permits, Wine Permits &
Liquor Licenses:
a. Chocolaterie Stam, 230 Main Street, Special Class B Native Wine Permit
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b. Radisson Hotel Ames, 2609 University Boulevard, Class C Retail Alcohol
License
c. Time Out Ames, 120 Kellogg Avenue, Class C Retail Alcohol License with
Outdoor Service
7. Requests from Ames Main Street for Winter Sidewalk Sales on January 8 -11,
2026:
a. Motion approving Blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit
b. RESOLUTION NO. 25-550 approving suspension of parking regulations
and enforcement for the Downtown from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on
Saturday, January 10
c. RESOLUTION NO. 25-551 approving/motion denying waiver of parking
meter fees and enforcement
d. RESOLUTION NO. 25-552 approving request from Ames Main Street for
Saturday, January 10, to transfer $1,370.25 from the Hotel/Motel Tax
Fund to the Parking Fund
8. Annual 2025 Urban Renewal Report:
a. RESOLUTION NO. 25-553 approving 2025 Urban Renewal Report
b. RESOLUTION NO. 25-554 approving certification of TIF Debt and
appropriating payment of a rebate of incremental taxes for the Barilla TIF
District
c. RESOLUTION NO. 25-555 approving certification of TIF Debt and
appropriating payment of a rebate of incremental taxes for the North
Dayton Industrial Park TIF District
9. RESOLUTION NO. 25-556 amending Council's Standards of Decorum to require
persons speaking to identify themselves
10. RESOLUTION NO. 25-557 relating to financing of a project to be undertaken by
the City of Ames, Iowa; establishing compliance with reimbursement bond
regulations under the Internal Revenue Code (Power Plant New Thermal
Generation Project)
11. RESOLUTION NO. 25-558 Issuing a Notice to Bidders for FY 2023/24 Story
County Edge of Field Project, setting January 7, 2026, as the bid due date and
January 13, 2026, as the date of public hearing and award
12. RESOLUTION NO. 25-559 approving Memorandum of Agreement with Mary
Greeley Medical Center for Alternative Response to Community Health Calls for
Service
13. RESOLUTION NO. 25-560 waiving the City's Purchasing Policy requirement for
competitive bidding and awarding a three -year contract for Computerized
Maintenance Management Software to Limble CMMS LLC, Lehi, UT, in the
amount of $94,374 (inclusive of Iowa sales tax)
14. RESOLUTION NO. 25-561 waiving the City's Purchasing Policy requirement for
competitive bidding and awarding a contract to CentralSquare Technologies,
LLC, a CentralSquare Company, of Lake Mary, FL, in the amount of $161,442.50
15. RESOLUTION NO. 25-562 awarding contract to GovernmentJobs.com, Inc.
(d/b/a NEOGOV) of El Segundo, CA, for a Human Resources Management
Software package in an amount not to exceed $93,330.10 for year one of a
potential five-year contract
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16. RESOLUTION NO. 25-563 approving contract and bond for the CyRide 2025
Battery Electric Bus Facility Improvement Project with NAI Electrical Contractors,
of Ames, IA, in the amount of $77,300
17. RESOLUTION NO. 25-564 approving contract and bond for the 2025/26 Traffic
Signal Program with Iowa Signal Inc. of Grimes, IA, in the amount of $75,423.95
18. RESOLUTION NO. 25-565 approving Change Order No. 1 with TEI Construction
Services Inc., of Duncan, SC, for Boiler Maintenance Services Contract for
Power Plant in the amount of $200,000
19. 2023/24 Asphalt Street Pavement Improvements Program #2 (E 7th St, N
Riverside Dr):
a. RESOLUTION NO. 25-566 approving Change Order No. 2 with Con-
Struct, Inc., of Ames, IA, for the 2023/24 Asphalt Street Pavement
Improvements Program #2 (E 7th St, N Riverside Dr) in the amount of
$42,128.41
b. RESOLUTION NO. 25-567 accepting 2023/24 Asphalt Street Pavement
Improvements Program #2 (E 7th St, N Riverside Dr) as completed by
Con-Struct, Inc, of Ames, IA, in the amount of $788,082.61
20. RESOLUTION NO. 25-568 approving the financial security covering one year of
the 4 Year Stormwater Management Maintenance requirements on file for
Wyffels Hybrids, Phase 1 (220 S Teller Avenue) be reduced to $18,750
21. RESOLUTION NO. 25-569 approving the financial security covering two years of
the 4 Year Stormwater Management Maintenance requirements on file for Pivot
Bio (2600 South Loop Drive) be reduced to $6,000
22. RESOLUTION NO. 25-570 approving partial completion of public improvements
and reducing financial security on file for Ansley Subdivision 3rd Addition to
$89,403.50
23. RESOLUTION NO. 25-571 approving the financial security covering the
Stormwater Management Maintenance requirements on file for Northcrest
Retirement Community be released in full
24. RESOLUTION NO. 25-572 approving the financial security on file for Bricktowne
Stormwater Installation be released in full
25. RESOLUTION NO. 25-573 approving the financial security on file for Iowa
Dermatology (1429 Boston Avenue) be released in full
26. RESOLUTION NO. 25-574 accepting Roof Replacement at the Power Plant
project as completed by Central States Roofing, of Ames, IA, in the amount of
$1,724,540 (inclusive of Iowa sales tax)
27. RESOLUTION NO. 25-575 accepting 2023/24 Concrete Street Pavement
Improvements as completed by Con-Struct, Inc, of Ames, IA, in the amount of
$1,191,940.12
28. RESOLUTION NO. 25-576 accepting 2023/24 Ames Plan 2040 Sanitary Sewer
Utility Infrastructure (265th Street Extension) project as completed by S.M.
Hentges and Sons, Inc., of Jordan, MN, in the amount of $2,173,215.06
29. RESOLUTION NO. 25-577 approving Plat of Survey (Boundary Line Adjustment)
for 5300 Hickory Hills Drive
30. Plat of Survey (Boundary Line Adjustment) for Properties Generally Located at
the Intersection of County Line Road and Lincoln Highway, including 632 and
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634 N 500th and 5507 and 5815 Lincoln Highway
a. RESOLUTION NO. 25-578 approving the acceptance of right-of-way
dedication at 5815 Lincoln Highway
b. RESOLUTION NO. 25-579 waiving Minor Subdivision Final Plat
requirement to allow for a Plat of Survey
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motions/Resolutions declared carried/adopted unanimously, signed
by the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
STANDARDS OF DECORUM: Council Member Rollins explained that she pulled this
item to highlight the change requiring speakers to identify themselves. She clarified this
change was not meant to be punitive but to ensure the City Council knows which
community members are speaking on various issues.
Moved by Rollins, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-556
amending Council's Standards of Decorum to require persons speaking to identify
themselves.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor,
and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
PLAT OF SURVEY (BOUNDARY LINE ADJUSTMENT) FOR PROPERTIES
GENERALLY LOCATED AT THE INTERSECTION OF COUNTY LINE ROAD AND
LINCOLN HIGHWAY, INCLUDING 632 AND 634 N 500TH AND 5507 AND 5815
LINCOLN HIGHWAY: Council Member Rollins raised questions about access to certain
parcels in the Plat of Survey. Planning and Housing Director Kelly Diekmann explained
that the plat involved properties that were originally part of an Auditor's Plat with no
dedicated right-of-way, resulting in landlocked parcels. He noted that an easement was
being established between parcels to provide access.
The Public Input was opened by Mayor Haila.
Brant Lemer, 5615 Lincoln Highway, the original owner of parcels 59 and 82 before
recent sales, voiced skepticism about the adequacy of a 20-foot easement, highlighting
that the parcels would perpetuate the status of having access challenges. He shared
historical context, mentioning attempts since 2003 to secure formal easements, which
the previous property owner opposed.
Brian Adams, 5507 Lincoln Highway, expressed apprehension over possible restrictions
to his driveway access. He clarified that he had been utilizing the existing driveway
easement for over two decades, highlighting its crucial role in reaching his garage given
the intrinsic layout obstacles posed by septic systems and wells on his lot.
The Public Input was closed by Mayor Haila when no one else came forward to speak.
Council Member Gartin raised questions about potentially creating landlocked parcels
and the enforcement of ensuring legal access. Director Diekmann clarified that while the
parcels were initially landlocked, the current process aimed to consolidate lots without
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changing the existing access conditions. He further elaborated that the original Auditor’s
Plat dated back over 60 years, meaning the lots were part of a historical configuration
that lacked the modern dedication of rights -of-way. The current survey sought to adjust
property boundaries among participating owners without establishing new road
frontages or dedicated rights-of-way. The City Council deliberated on whether to impose
conditions requiring legal access to public streets yet affirmed that the current survey
affected existing conditions rather than initiating new developments, which would fall
under different regulatory scrutiny.
City Attorney Mark Lambert confirmed the plat adhered to the City's regulations as there
were no explicit legal barriers found in the proposed survey to necessitate withholding
approval.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to approve Alternative No. 1 as follows:
a. Adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-578 approving the acceptance of right-of-way
dedication at 5815 Lincoln Highway
b. Adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-579 waiving Minor Subdivision Final Plat
requirement to allow for a Plat of Survey
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolutions declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor,
and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
PUBLIC FORUM: Mayor Haila opened the Public Forum.
Travis Toliver, Executive Director of Ames Main Street, encouraged residents to shop
local during the holiday season, highlighting the 2025 Small Business Weekend events
taking place in the Ames Downtown and Campustown.
Mahmoud Gshash, Chair of the Darul Arqum Islamic Center Board of Directors,
provided background on the center and highlighted the programs and services offered.
He invited the City Council Members and the public to visit the center.
Mayor Haila closed the Public Forum when no one else came forward to speak.
RESIDENTIAL CURBSIDE RECYCLING PROGRAM: Public Works Director Justin
Clausen and Sustainability Coordinator Nolan Sagan presented an update on the
proposed residential curbside recycling program. The program aims to divert waste from
the landfill as the City transitions away from waste-to-energy.
Coordinator Sagan shared that the initial gathering of public opinion was accomplished
through a community survey, which revealed overwhelming support for the introduction
of curbside recycling among the residents of Ames. To implement this program
effectively, the City Council members were guided through the facets of various
proposed structures to determine the best fit for the City's needs.
Staff provided several recommendations based on survey data and the need for
operational efficiencies. It was proposed that the program should offer universal access
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to recycling carts for properties with four units or less. This approach would ensure that
all residents bear the cost equally, fostering an environment in which everyone
contributes to and participates in the renewal of waste materials.
In evaluating potential service providers, staff favored creating a citywide contract with a
single service provider. This would consolidate efforts and streamline operations,
creating a uniform set of recycling rules applicable to the entire City. Such a move
would help reduce the administrative and logistical challenges that typically arise when
multiple providers with differing policies operate within the same region. Furthermore,
this single-provider model would greatly enhance accountability and enable easier
tracking of recycling rates, a crucial factor for complying with reporting requirements
from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
In terms of managing the physical demands of waste collection, it was suggested that
the onus of cart procurement lie with the contractor while allowing ownership to remain
with the City. This solution would allow for the cost of the carts to be distributed across
the contract term, mitigating budgetary demands in a single year. A biweekly collection
schedule was recommended as a method to control overall expenses while optimizing
available resources. Additionally, the cart size would be standardized initially,
simplifying the rollout. Future evaluations would help determine if there was a
substantial demand for introducing smaller cart sizes.
An auxiliary component of the City Council discussion included addressing multifamily
units composed of more than five living spaces, which would fall outside the immediate
execution of this planned program. To assist those residences in recycling efforts, a
pilot project was proposed, designed to serve as an experimental solution for handling
diverse housing types with unique logistical challenges. The City Council members were
presented with the merits of using funding from the Council Priorities Sustainability Fund
to support this exploratory phase.
The City Council engaged in a spirited dialogue regarding particular concerns such as
enforcement policies and the program's impact on existing waste haulers. Director
Clausen clarified that the enforcement of recycling compliance would prioritize public
education and correction measures over punitive actions. Persistent uncooperative
behaviors would result in restricting the recycling service to address misuse.
The Public Input was opened by Mayor Haila.
Thor Nelson, Executive Vice President of Aspen Waste Systems, supported the focus
on recycling and requested that, should the City Council choose a single-hauler model,
the RFP include criteria beyond price, such as community experience and local
investment.
Caitlin Leon, Ames Climate Action Team, expressed support for single-stream curbside
recycling and a single-hauler model to minimize emissions.
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The Public Input was closed by Mayor Haila when no one else came forward to speak.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Junck, to approve Alternative No. 1 as follows:
a. Direct staff to proceed with a Request for Proposal based on the
recommendations from staff for each issue , including Level of Access,
Provider, Cart Ownership, Frequency of Service, and Cart Size.
b. Adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-580 allocating up to $20,000 from Council
Priorities Sustainability fund for the proposed multifamily recycling pilot
project.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motion/Resolution declared carried/adopted unanimously, signed by
the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
ROOSEVELT AVENUE PARKING ORDINANCE UPDATE: Director Clausen and Civil
Engineer II Mark Gansen reviewed the recommendation to prohibit parking along the
east side of Roosevelt Avenue. Director Clausen explained that Roosevelt Avenue from
16th to 13th Street was reconstructed in 2024. The reconstruction modified the geometry
of the street from its previous condition as a 31-foot-wide road, which accommodated a
public transit route, to a 27-foot-wide road to align with standard local road
specifications.
In a November 2024 report, staff initially recommended prohibiting parking on one side
of the street to ensure emergency services could safely navigate the reduced width.
However, this recommendation was tabled by the City Council to allow residents to
experience a winter season with parking on both sides and gather feedback.
Following this decision, staff conducted a survey with responses from 32 of the 38
properties along the route. Approximately 60% of respondents supported prohibiting
parking on one side of the street, while about 30% preferred keeping parking on both
sides. In addition to the general preference for restricting parking, residents were evenly
split on whether parking should be prohibited on the east or west side. Traditionally,
parking restrictions are placed amid critical features, such as fire hydrants, for both
safety and access during emergencies. Therefore, staff recommended prohibiting
parking along the east side to ensure emergency vehicle access and align with the
proximity of fire hydrants on that avenue side.
Mayor Haila opened the Public Input.
Catherine Scott, 1510 Roosevelt Avenue, supported restricting parking to one side,
noting that when cars park on both sides, only one vehicle can pass through the middle,
creating safety concerns and snow plowing challenges.
Alisha Abner, 1004 Murray Drive, shared similar concerns, underscoring the safety
issues that arise from the current parking arrangement. She added that having cars
parked on both sides of Roosevelt Avenue not only complicates the traffic flow but also
adds to the challenges faced during snow plowing operations.
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Mayor Haila closed the Public Input when no one else came forward to speak .
Director Clausen confirmed that with cars parked on both sides, regular snowplow
trucks struggled to navigate the street, requiring specialized equipment that can cause
delays in snow removal. He assured the City Council that prohibiting parking on one
side would alleviate these issues by allowing standard equipment to perform the snow
removal efficiently.
Council Member Gartin raised questions about the aftermath of restricting parking and
where the displaced vehicles might find space. Director Clausen explained that while
residents are expected to utilize driveways, any overflow would need to find parking
further along the street, acknowledging the issue but emphasizing the necessity for
emergency access and overall safety.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Junck, to direct staff to prepare the ordinance.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
DISCUSSION ON MODIFICATIONS TO MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 19: Parks and
Recreation Director Keith Abraham presented the proposed changes to Municipal Code
Chapter 19. He emphasized that these changes were initiated after the Parks and
Recreation Commission asked staff to review park policies and existing ordinances
following a public meeting held in April 2025.
As a result of this extensive feedback from the community, various recommendations
were brought forward. Director Abraham highlighted that one of the primary changes
included clarifying that the prohibition on motorized vehicles should not restrict mobility
devices, which was an update to already existing language to align with current societal
norms.
Regarding firearms, the proposed changes brought the code into compliance with state
laws, recognizing that previous prohibitions were no longer enforceable. The Parks and
Recreation Commission also suggested adding provisions to the code that would
officially prohibit swimming in all public waters in City-owned bodies of water, but held
out exceptions for preapproved activities like the Ames Triathlon.
A notable addition involved listing Gateway Hills Park as a space where beer and wine
consumption would be permitted. Director Abrahman explained that this choice
stemmed from observing that, even though many regularly use the park for disc golf and
sand volleyball, current rules around alcohol consumption there were often overlooked.
The Parks and Recreations Commission also sought to add a new section setting speed
limits for bicycles on park trails, suggesting a 10 miles per hour limit, which was a
response to considerable feedback in favor of regulating bike speeds.
A significant point of discussion involved pets in parks, particularly focusing on whether
dogs should be kept on leashes at all times. While Director Abraham indicated the
Commission recommended all dogs be leashed within parks, a decision deferred to
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Animal Control Supervisor Ron Edwards, who was considering other potential changes
like leash length limitations.
After hearing substantial community input on the topic of e-bikes, the Commission
preferred not to restrict their use. Director Abraham highlighted that e-bikes provide an
opportunity for individuals with health concerns to continue enjoying biking in parks, and
despite smaller percentages of ownership, the Commission expected this sector to grow
with the aging population. It believed enforcing safety changes around bike speeds
would sufficiently improve safety concerns associated with e -bikes and similar devices.
Director Abraham addressed enforcement policies, explaining that day-to-day
enforcement relied significantly on education, but repeated non-compliance could result
in City staff involving the Police Department for trespassing issues when park rules
were routinely not followed.
The Public Input was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to
speak.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Gartin, to direct staff to update the ordinance
based on recommendations from Parks & Recreation Commission.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
PRELIMINARY PLAT WITH PUD AMENDMENT FOR 3300 UNIVERSITY
BOULEVARD: Director Diekmann was available for questions.
Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Input when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-581 approving
Preliminary Plat with PUD Amendment for 3300 University Boulevard, known as
Discovery Place, 1st Addition.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor,
and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
The meeting was recessed by Mayor Haila at 8:07 p.m. and reconvened at 8:12 p.m.
ENGAGEMENT COORDINATOR ANNUAL UPDATE: Engagement Coordinator
Casandra Eames provided an update on her activities, initiatives, and connection
opportunities to welcome and engage the community. She highlighted progress on
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance, including conducting public walk-
throughs of City buildings and preparing for new Department of Justice digital
accessibility guidelines, for which an internal task force was created to implement the
requirements.
Coordinator Eames elaborated on her community engagement efforts, including the
Building Community Breakfast with the Ames Regional Economic Alliance, assisting
with translations, and supporting an exhibit at the library. She also referenced the Ames
Human Relations Commission's activities and the pending score for the Municipal
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Equality Index.
The training programs offered were outlined by Coordinator Eames, including de-
escalation methods, neurodiversity in the workplace, and emotional support for public
service employees. She also mentioned media initiatives such as the "Belonging in
Ames" show and the "Up Close" podcast, which has connected 30 residents .
Coordinator Eames discussed collaborations with Iowa State University (ISU), including
Career Pathways Academy with Story County ISU Extension and YSS, and efforts to
engage ISU student clubs. A survey of ISU students revealed they feel they belong in
Ames but would like more cultural events, ethnic restaurants, extended Cy Ride hours,
and non-alcohol-related social venues.
Looking ahead, Coordinator Eames shared that she plans to focus on facilitating
neighborhood connections, continuing ADA compliance training, and developing an
educational presentation with the Ames History Museum.
Council Member Gartin asked about relationship building efforts with Ames Community
School District. Coordinator Eames mentioned collaborating with the Ames Human
Relations Commission at Kate Mitchell Elementary School Multicultural Night, attending
panels on education, and meeting with school officials to understand their priorities.
FY 2025/26 ANALYSIS OF SOCIAL SERVICES EVALUATION TEAM (ASSET)
CONTRACT WITH NAMI CENTRAL IOWA: Assistant City Manager Pa Vang Goldbeck
highlighted that 11% of the contract had been expended to date . Thus, the request was
to sequester the remaining 89% of funds.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Gartin, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-582
approving sequestering the remaining balance to NAMI for FY 2025/26.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor,
and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
NATURAL GAS SUPPLY CONTRACT FOR POWER PLANT: Director of Electric
Services Donald Kom presented information on natural gas purchasing for the Power
Plant. He explained that since Ames started buying natural gas for the Power Plant in
2016, demand for liquefied natural gas has significantly impacted market conditions and
pricing stability, which requires staff to implement a strategic approach to purchasing.
The current budget allocation for natural gas was noted to be $7,000,000. Director Kom
highlighted that adhering to the previous "wedding cake" purchase structure at today's
higher prices would exceed the allocated budget. Thus, maintaining fiscal responsibility
requires exploring alternative approaches to purchasing natural gas.
Director Kom noted that staff are favoring the purchase of natural gas in the range of
4,000 to 6,000 MMBtu per day, instead of meeting the peak 8,000 MMBtu requirement
during winter. He explained that this would mean supplementing with spot market
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purchases when necessary, thereby enabling the City to better align with budget
constraints while managing refuse-derived fuel (RDF) burning as consistently as
weather permits.
This strategy sets forward a flexible purchasing approach necessary to meet the
unpredictable nature of gas prices, explained Director Kom, thus safeguarding against
unexpected financial impacts. He underscored that success hinges on continued
monitoring of both day-to-day gas market fluctuations and seasonal supply dynamics.
The City Council Members showed recognition of the market complexities and
acknowledged the critical role methodical gas purchasing plays in balancing utility rates
and operational stability. In supporting the recommendation from staff, the City Council
sought clarity on implementing purchase caps as an added measure to ensure
adequate financial protection without jeopardizing system resilience , highlighting that
purchases should not exceed a ceiling cost of $6.00 per MMBtu.
Council Member Gartin noted the City Council's reliance on expert discretion in making
these buying decisions, recognizing the broader implications for utility rate payers and
assuring support for the contract approach recommended by staff. Director Kom
concurred and explained that staff would pursue an amendment to the current contract
with Macquerie Energy LLC, to extend the existing natural gas supply contract for a
term of not more than six months at prices to achieve a total cost of not more than
$7,000,000.
The Public Input was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to
speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to approve Alternative No. 3 and adopt
RESOLUTION NO. 25-583 authorizing staff to enter into natural gas supply contract for
Power Plant.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor,
and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
UPDATES TO SMART ENERGY REBATE PROGRAM: Energy Services Coordinator
Layne Fober presented proposed changes to the Smart Energy Rebate Program , which
aimed to reduce electric bills, improve efficiency, enhance home comfort, encourage
efficient utilization of the electric system, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions ,
particularly by transitioning from gas to electric systems.
Coordinator Fober highlighted that increasing rebates involved offering higher incentives
for adopting technologies like heat pump water heaters, geothermal heat pumps, and
air-source heat pumps. Changes to central air conditioning rebates reflected an
alignment with federal tax credit standards, and staff proposed decreasing rebates for
high-efficiency central air conditioners and completely retiring those for lower -efficiency
units, which included those under 17 SEER. This move was part of a broader effor t to
incentivize only the higher efficiency units that moved significantly closer to current
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benchmark standards.
Coordinator Fober shared that weatherization support included a new rebate for attic
insulation, reflecting a growing understanding of the impact of well-insulated homes on
reducing energy use and supporting a comfortable living environment. Retiring certain
appliance rebates was also proposed as many appliances already meet Energy Star
requirements, including rebates for items like dehumidifiers, dishwashers, small
refrigerators, freezers, and custom projects. This shift would allow the program to focus
resources where they might spur more substantive efficiency gains.
Director Kom highlighted the significance of adopting cutting -edge efficient technologies
to prevent congestion on the electricity grid, specifically during peak demand periods.
He explained the broader economic ramifications of addressing peak loads through the
lens of this rebate program, ensuring that energy costs remained manageable across
the year.
Mayor Haila opened the Public Input.
Steve Schallehn, 1123 N 2nd Street, expressed his support for the proposed changes to
the Smart Energy Rebate Program , highlighting that electrification is the fastest method
for climate action.
Mayor Haila closed the Public Input when no one else came forward to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-584 approving
updates to Smart Energy Rebate Program.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor,
and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON HOMEWOOD GOLF COURSE HOLE NINE CROSSING
IMPROVEMENT PROJECT: The Public Hearing was opened and closed by Mayor
Haila when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to approve Alternative No. 1 as follows:
a. Accept the report of bids.
b. Adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-585 approving final plans and specifications and
awarding a contract to Con-Struct Inc., of Ames, IA, in the amount of
$213,410.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motion/Resolution declared carried/adopted unanimously, signed by
the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON LOAD CENTER REPLACEMENT AT THE POWER PLANT : Mayor
Haila opened and closed the Public Hearing when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to reject the bids and direct staff to
modify the project.
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Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON REZONING PROPERTY AT 220-400 FREEL DRIVE FROM GENERAL
INDUSTRIAL (GI) TO GOVERNMENT/AIRPORT DISTRICT (S-GA): 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 pass on first reading an ordinance
rezoning property at 220-400 Freel Drive from General Industrial (GI) to
Government/Airport District (S-GA).
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON LEASE OF CITY PROPERTY LOCATED EAST OF 731 BILLY
SUNDAY ROAD NOW KNOWN AS LOT 3 OF BILLY SUNDAY SUBDIVISION TO
LAMAR ADVERTISING COMPANY: Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Gartin, to
continue Public Hearing to November 25, 2025 .
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING TO TRANSFER VACATED ALLEY LOCATED AT 325 ASH AVENUE TO
ALPHA IOTA ASSOCIATION OF PHI GAMMA DELTA: Mayor Haila opened and
closed the Public Hearing when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-586 approving
vacating alley for no additional consideration by Quit Claim deed.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor,
and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING TO CONSIDER VACATION OF AN EXISTING ELECTRIC EASEMENT AT
1411 S GRAND AVENUE: The Public Hearing was opened and closed by Mayor Haila
when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Gartin, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-587
approving vacation of electric easement at 1411 S Grand Avenue.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor,
and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
SECOND READING ON ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT TO AMEND MATERIAL
STANDARDS FOR OFF-STREET PARKING AREAS AND DRIVEWAYS FOR
AGRICULTURAL EQUIPMENT IN THE RESEARCH PARK INNOVATION DISTRICT:
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to pass on second reading an
ordinance related to a Zoning Text Amendment to amend material standards for off -
street parking areas and driveways for agricultural equipment in the Research Park
Innovation District.
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
DISPOSITION OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: Mayor Haila noted that there
were seven items for consideration. The first was from Brent Dunn regarding parking
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regulations on Ross Road.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Gartin, to request a memo from staff.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
A request from Travis Toliver, Ames Main Street Executive Director, concerning a gift of
holiday lights to the City of Ames was the second item.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Rollins, to place the item on the agenda for the
next Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The third item was a request from Assistant City Manager Phillips to rename Center
Avenue to Chantland Avenue.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Betcher, to place the item on a future agenda.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Paving improvement considerations for SE 3 rd Street from Chuck Winkleblack, Hunziker
Companies, was the next item.
Moved by Rollins, seconded by Gartin, to place the item on the agenda for the next
Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Luke Jensen, RES Group, Inc., submitted the fifth item, which was a request for an
amendment to the Ames Comprehensive Plan.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Rollins, to request a memo from staff.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
A notice of an Economic Development Administration Opportunity from Dan Culhane,
Ames Regional Economic Alliance President & CEO, was the sixth item.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Betcher, to request a memo from staff.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The final item was from Director Clausen relating to the Stormwater Management plan
for Hoover Avenue and Adams Street.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to ensure that the requestor be notified
of the report from the Public Works Director and be informed that the City Council voted
to take no action.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
REPORT OF GOVERNING BODY: None.
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COUNCIL COMMENTS: Ex officio Boland announced that ISU Student Government
now has a nonprofit coordinator who will attend all ASSET hearings. She also reported
that ISU alumnus and current president of North Dakota State University (NDSU) David
Cook had been selected as the new university president. She shared that David
Spaulding will be serving as interim president from January to March.
Council Member Gartin praised the Parks and Recreation Department for Ada Hayden
Heritage Park trail improvements.
Council Member Rollins congratulated those involved in the November 4 th elections and
commended the communications work on the Fire Station No. 2 relocation campaign.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen thanked public forum speakers and invited the Islamic
Center representative to suggest events where the City Council Members could attend.
Council Member Betcher mentioned attending the Building Community Breakfast and a
workforce preparation panel discussion in Boone. She also noted that the Board of
Regents had approved the contract for the lease of land for the Fire Station No. 2
relocation.
Mayor Haila reported that City staff would be presenting to Story County mayors about
the new Resource Recovery and Recycling Campus the following night. He also
mentioned attending an ISU health competition where he was impressed with student
projects related to community fitness. He noted that two of the projects would be
presented to the Parks & Recreation Commission at its upcoming meeting.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to adjourn the meeting at
9:21 p.m.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
_______________________________ _______________________________
Carly M. Watson, Deputy City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
_______________________________
Renee Hall, City Clerk