HomeMy WebLinkAboutA001 - December 16, 2025, Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council, Extended Minutes1
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA DECEMBER 16, 2025
The Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor John Haila
at 6:00 p.m. on the 16th day of December, 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 was also present.
PROCLAMATION FOR "SLAVERY AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING PREVENTION
MONTH," JANUARY 2026: Mayor Haila proclaimed January 2026 "Slavery and Human
Trafficking Prevention Month" and Iowa Network Against Human Trafficking and Slavery
Chair George Belitsos, joined by Youth & Shelter Services staff, accepted the
proclamation. Chair Belitsos provided statistics showing a significant increase in online
trafficking and child exploitation cases in 2025. He expressed disappointment with the
slow progress in the Iowa legislature and at the federal level regarding protective
legislation, particularly around artificial intelligence, which was being used as a tool by
traffickers.
DOWNTOWN AMES GUIDING VISION PRESENTATION: Travis Toliver, Executive
Director of Ames Main Street, provided an update on implementing the Downtown Guiding
Vision plan. He outlined the plan's four main ideas, which included creating a robust
downtown neighborhood, streets as spaces, connections to Iowa State University (ISU),
and an entrepreneurial downtown.
Director Toliver also detailed four short-term projects planned for 2026. First was a
community shared dumpster program that aimed to improve aesthetics by consolidating
trash receptacles in strategic locations. Second was a downtown parklet program, which
sought to extend public spaces with mini parks and additional seating areas. The third
project was a Sip and Stroll District program, designed to allow people to consume alcoholic
beverages outdoors during special events. Collaborating with the City on the Tom Evans
Plaza refresh was the fourth.
For long-term projects, Director Toliver mentioned plans for a multimodal parking ramp,
extending Tom Evans Plaza, creating festival streets, and working with building owners to
develop more upper-story housing.
Council Member Gartin asked if there were specific requests related to the proposed
projects that should be considered by the City Council as they begin work on the Capital
Improvement Projects (CIP) budget. Director Toliver reported none for the next fiscal year.
Council Member Gartin highlighted the five-year window of the CIP and encouraged
Director Toliver to communicate requests beyond the next fiscal year to assist the City
Council in planning for those projects. Council Member Betcher asked about the proposed
boundaries of the Self-Supported Municipal Improvement District (SMID), and Director
Toliver explained that Ames Main Street was currently considering expanding its
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geographic boundaries in order to include more businesses.
CONSENT AGENDA: Council Member Junck pulled Item Nos. 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, and
15, related requests from Ames Main Street for 2026 Special Events.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Gartin, to approve the consent agenda less Item Nos. 8,
10, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15.
3. Motion approving payment of claims
4. Motion approving Summary of Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting on
December 9, 2025
5. Motion approving the renewal of the following Beer Permits, Wine Permits &
Liquor Licenses:
a. Fuji Japanese Steakhouse, 1614 S Kellogg Avenue Ste 101, Class C Retail
Alcohol License, Pending Dramshop Review
6. Motion authorizing the Mayor to sign a Certificate of Consistency with the 2024-
2028 City of Ames CDBG Consolidated Plan on behalf of YSS for renewal funding
of a Rapid ReHousing Program
7. Purchase of the sculpture "A Big Hello" by Craig Snyder:
a. RESOLUTION NO. 25-614 accepting letter of donation pledge from the
Ames Regional Economic Alliance for funds to purchase the sculpture "A
Big Hello"
b. RESOLUTION NO. 25-615 awarding contract with Craig Snyder of
Plymouth, MN, in the amount of $7,840 for the purchase of the sculpture
"A Big Hello" for placement at the Main Street Gateway
8. Requests from Ames Main Street for Art Walk on Thursday, June 11, 2026:
a. Motion approving blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit and blanket
Vending License in Central Business District
b. Resolution approving suspension of parking meter fees and enforcement
for 23 metered parking spaces for vendors from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
c. Resolution approving waiver of parking meter fees and enforcement, usage
and waiver of electrical fees, and waiver of fee for blanket Vending license
for Ames Main Street from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
d. Resolution approving closure of Kellogg Avenue and Douglas Avenue
from Main Street to Fifth Street from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
e. Resolution approving usage of Tom Evans Plaza
9. Requests from Ames Main Street for 4th of July activities on July 4, 2026:
a. Motion approving blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit and blanket
Vending License in Central Business District
b. RESOLUTION NO. 25-616 approving waiver of Vending License fee
c. RESOLUTION NO. 25-617 approving closure of portions of Main Street,
Northwestern Avenue, Fifth Street, Douglas Avenue, Burnett Avenue,
Kellogg Avenue, Clark Avenue, Allan Drive, and Pearle Avenue from 6:00
a.m. until end of parade
d. RESOLUTION NO. 25-618 approving closure of Parking Lot MM and south
portion of Lot M from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
10. Requests from Ames Main Street for Summer Sidewalk Sales on July 9 - July 12,
2026:
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a. Motion approving Blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit
b. Resolution approving suspension of parking regulations and enforcement
for the Downtown from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 11
c. Resolution approving transfer of $1,370.25 from the Hotel/Motel Tax Fund
to the Parking Fund
11. Requests from Ames Main Street for Music Walk on Thursday, September 17,
2026:
a. Motion approving blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit and blanket
Vending License in Central Business District from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
b. Resolution approving suspension of parking meter fees and enforcement
of 23 metered parking spaces for vendors from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
c. Resolution approving waiver of parking meter fees and enforcement and
usage and waiver of electrical fees, and waiver of fee for blanket Vending
License for Ames Main Street from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
d. Resolution approving closure of Kellogg Avenue and Douglas Avenue from
5th Street to Main Street
12. Requests from Ames Main Street for Witches Walk on Thursday, October 8, 2026:
a. Motion approving blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit and blanket
Vending License in Central Business District from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
and waiving fee for blanket Vending License
b. Resolution approving waiver of electrical fees on Ames Main Street from
3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
c. Resolution approving closure of Kellogg Avenue from Main Street to Fifth
Street from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
d. Resolution approving suspension of parking regulations and enforcement
for 14 parking spaces in Downtown from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on October
8, 2026
13. Requests from Ames Main Street for Holiday Open House event from November
5 through November 8, 2026:
a. Motion approving Blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit for Downtown
b. Resolution approving suspension of parking regulations and
enforcement for Downtown 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, November
7, 2026
c. Resolution approving waiver of parking meter fees and enforcement
d. Resolution approving transfer of $1,370.25 from Hotel/Motel Tax Fund
to the Parking Fund
14. Requests from Ames Main Street for Small Business Saturday on November 28,
2026:
a. Motion approving Blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit for Downtown
and Campustown on November 28, December 5, December 12,
December 19, and December 26
b. Resolution approving suspension of parking regulations and
enforcement for Downtown and Campustown from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00
p.m. on November 28, December 5, December 12, December 19, and
December 26
c. Resolution approving waiver of parking meter fees and enforcement
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d. Resolution approving transfer of $12,341.25 from the Hotel/Motel Tax
Fund to the Parking Fund
15. Requests from Ames Main Street for Snow Magic on December 1 through
December 31, 2026:
a. Motion approving Blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit
b. Motion approving Blanket Vending License
c. Resolution approving waiver of Vending License fee
d. Resolution approving closure of four metered parking spaces on the east
side of Douglas Avenue from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on December 3
e. Resolution approving usage of electricity in Tom Evans Plaza and waiver
of fees for electricity
16. RESOLUTION NO. 25-619 approving and adopting Supplement No. 2026-1 to the
Ames Municipal Code
17. RESOLUTION NO. 25-620 adopting Amended Appendix P (CyRide Rates and
Charges) of the Ames Municipal Code per authority granted by the Ames Transit
Agency Board of Trustees
18. RESOLUTION NO. 25-621 waiving Purchasing Policy requirement for competitive
bidding and awarding a contract to Carbon Day EV Charging, of Wheeling, IL, for
the purchase of two Level 3 EV chargers in the amount of $121,312.32
19. RESOLUTION NO. 25-622 awarding a contract to Irby Utilities, of Rapid City, SD,
for the purchase of steel poles for Electric Services in the amount of $61,008.19
20. RESOLUTION NO. 25-623 awarding contract to RESCO, of Ankeny, IA, for the
purchase of a 2500 kVA three-phase pad-mounted distribution transformer in the
amount of $58,710.90
21. RESOLUTION NO. 25-624 awarding contract to Petroleum Traders, Corp. for the
FY 2025/26 Electrical Services Fuel Supply contract in an amount not-to-exceed
$300,000
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motions/Resolutions declared carried/adopted unanimously, signed
by the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
REQUESTS FROM AMES MAIN STREET FOR 2026 SPECIAL EVENTS: Council
Member Junck noted that she requested to pull Item Nos. 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15
due to discrepancies between the parking waiver requests included in the Special Events
applications and the Outside Funding Request in Item No. 33. The City Council agreed
to table these items to a future meeting to reconcile the discrepancies.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Betcher, to table the aforementioned items to a future
meeting.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
PUBLIC FORUM: The Public Forum was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no
one came forward to speak.
FITCH FAMILY INDOOR AQUATIC CENTER UPDATE: Parks and Recreation Director
Keith Abraham, Story Construction Project Manager Troy Turner, and RDG Planning &
Design Architect Brad Rodenberg presented the monthly update on the Fitch Family Indoor
Aquatic Center. The substantial completion date for non-natatorium areas remained
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January 23, 2026, while the natatorium area, including pools and mechanical spaces, had
been pushed back to February 13, 2026. The update included photos of construction
progress, showing work on the current channel in the recreation pool, precast panel
installation, the water slide, pool basins, locker rooms with resinous flooring, and
mechanical systems installation.
Significant discussion centered on the precast panels exhibiting a discoloration issue.
There were eight possible causes to the discoloration identified by staff. The City Council
Members questioned why the panels were pressure washed despite the specifications
calling for manual brushing, and whether this contributed to the aesthetic problem. Project
Manager Turner explained that pressure washing was standard industry practice in Iowa,
though he acknowledged the specifications should have been followed.
Director Abraham presented two potential solutions: allowing time for natural weathering or
applying stain to achieve a more uniform appearance. After considerable discussion, the
City Council directed staff to investigate staining options, beginning with testing different
stains on the mock-up panel to find a solution that would both cover the discoloration and
maintain contrast with the lettering for the facility name.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to direct staff to investigate staining of the
precast panels and report back to the City Council at a later date.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Director Abraham then reviewed the details of Change Order #2 for Story Construction.
The change order addressed multiple items, including a 14-week delay in precast panel
procurement caused by design questions that needed resolution, particularly regarding
structural support for some panels and water-tight construction at corner points. Mayor
Haila expressed concern about the City being asked to pay for delays that appeared to
be design-related issues, but staff indicated this was necessary to maintain the project
schedule.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-625
approving Change Order #2 for Construction Manager services to Story Construction in
the amount of $211,000.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE LAND PURCHASE OPTION WITH KEYSTONE EQUITY
GROUP FOR SURPLUS LAND AT HARRISON AND WELBECK TO EXTEND FINAL
PLAT DEADLINE: Planner Amelia Schoeneman presented the first amendment to the
purchase option with Keystone Equity Group regarding surplus land located at Harrison
Road and Welbeck Drive, which proposed to extend the final plat deadline.
Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Input when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-626 approving
first amendment to the Land Purchase Option with Keystone Equity Group for Surplus
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Land at Harrison and Welbeck to Extend Final Plat Deadline.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
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 Rollins, to continue
the Public Hearing to January 13, 2026.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Council Member Gartin asked staff why this item was being continued. Assistant City
Manager Brian Phillips explained the delay was needed to finalize language regarding
tree removal responsibilities in the contract. Council Member Gartin noted this was the
last continuation he would support.
HEARING ON REZONING OF PROPERTY AT 200, 204, 210, 214, 220 SOUTHEAST
2ND STREET AND 210 SUMNER AVENUE FROM HIGHWAY-ORIENTED
COMMERCIAL (HOC) TO NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL (NC) WITH MASTER
PLAN: Planner Justin Moore presented a rezoning request from KHDP Enterprises to
rezone the 1.29-acres of vacant land located along SE 2nd Street from Highway-Oriented
Commercial (HOC) to Neighborhood Commercial (NC) with a master plan. The proposal
included a three-story mixed-use development with commercial space on the ground
floor and up to 30 residential units on the upper floors. Planner Moore explained that
while the Ames Plan 2040 designated the area as community commercial, there was an
overlapping "redirection sub-area" that contemplated mixed-use development. Staff
supported the rezoning as consistent with policy and the neighborhood's transitional
character between commercial and residential uses.
The Public Hearing was opened by Mayor Haila.
Kevin Heiss, representing KHDP Enterprises, described plans for a mixed-use building
featuring both commercial and residential elements. He noted that Riverside
Technologies expressed interest in establishing a presence on the site and sought to
collaborate with ISU for student internship opportunities.
Mayor Haila closed the Public Hearing when no one else came forward to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to pass on first reading an ordinance rezoning
property at 200, 204, 210, 214, 220 Southeast 2nd Street and 210 Sumner Avenue from
Highway-Oriented Commercial (HOC) to Neighborhood Commercial (NC) with Master
Plan.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
HEARING ON REZONING OF PART OF A PROPERTY LOCATED WITHIN THE IOWA
STATE RESEARCH PARK LOCATED ALONG SOUTH 530TH AVENUE FROM
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AGRICULTURAL (A) TO RESEARCH PARK INNOVATION DISTRICT (RI) WITH
MASTER PLAN: Planner Amelia Schoeneman presented a request to rezone
approximately 15 acres within the Iowa State Research Park from Agricultural (A) to
Research Park Industrial (RI) with a Master Plan. The rezoning would facilitate
development of an agricultural testing facility, while the remaining 20 acres would remain
zoned Agricultural.
Mayor Haila opened the Public Hearing.
Kyle Clark, Ames resident that lived immediately adjacent to the parcel, expressed
concerns about how the development might affect his family's property. He requested
more information about setbacks, height restrictions, and the overall master plan for the
area.
The Public Hearing was closed by Mayor Haila when no one else came forward to speak.
Planner Schoeneman responded to Mr. Clark’s concerns stating that rezoning was the
first step, preceding a preliminary plat or site plan that could provide more details. She
reported that the code dictated a 10-foot side setback and 10-foot rear setback
requirement, as well as a maximum height of 100 feet for the area.
Moved by Rollins, seconded by Gartin, to pass on first reading of an ordinance rezoning
part of a property located within the Iowa State Research Park located along South 530th
Avenue from Agricultural (A) to Research Park Innovation District (RI) with Master Plan.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
STAFF REPORT REGARDING DEVELOPERS' REQUEST FOR HOUSING
INCENTIVES: Planning and Housing Director Kelly Diekmann presented a staff report on
five development project requests for financial assistance, with different options and
funding sources outlined for each project. The projects under consideration included
Domani 1, Auburn Trail, Hayden's Preserve, the Bluffs at Dankbar, and Greenbriar. Each
had different infrastructure needs and timelines, with staff outlining three options for each
project representing different levels of City participation in infrastructure costs.
Director Diekmann also highlighted a potential roundabout option at the intersection of
Cameron School Road and GW Carver Avenue, suggesting that it could be considered
as a corridor improvement project. This approach would involve combining funding
sources and coordinating the improvement with different development projects, while also
seeking partner funding to make it cost-neutral to the City.
The City Council Members engaged in discussion regarding the options outlined in the
report, taking into consideration communication that had been received from the
developers since the last meeting. Council Member Corrieri inquired whether Tax
Increment Financing (TIF) could be utilized if a senior living facility was part of a residential
development. Director Diekmann explained that if residential TIF was applied, it would
trigger the requirement for Low- and Moderate-Income (LMI) housing, effectively doubling
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the TIF necessary due to the additional LMI housing requirement. Council Member Junck
asked if the proposed timeline had been reviewed and confirmed with the developers.
Director Diekmann noted some conversations had taken place but acknowledged that
staff had not met with developers to review the specifics of the timeline since it had been
created.
In response to questions from the City Council Members regarding development
agreements, Director Diekmann reported that all the projects had some form of
agreement already in place, aside from Greenbriar. At the time of annexation, discussion
of a development agreement for Greenbriar had been deferred until after a rezoning
application had been submitted and the development request had been reviewed by the
City Council. He confirmed that all the projects would be expected to have customized
development agreements in place.
The City Council Members expressed interest in the roundabout option at the intersection
of Cameron School Road and GW Carver Avenue. A significant part of the conversation
revolved around where the funding for such a project would come from and how a
roundabout would fit into the proposed Option 3 for development support. Council
Member Gartin questioned why the decision to pursue a roundabout was contingent on
Story County's participation and suggested that the City might consider taking on the
project independently, should the county choose not to contribute. Director Diekmann
detailed that inclusion of Story County was necessary because a portion of the
roundabout would fall within its jurisdiction, thus requiring a joint application for the project
to be eligible for a state grant. Additionally, if pursued solely through City resources,
residents would bear the brunt of the financial responsibility without external contributions.
Continued discussion emphasized the importance of further analyzing partner
opportunities with Story County, as well as developing a comprehensive understanding
of developmental impacts and infrastructure logistics associated with Option 3 before any
final decisions were made.
Mayor Haila opened the Public Input.
Justin Dodge, Hunziker Companies, advocated for Option 3 for Auburn Trail, which would
enable the development of 50 lots in 2026.
Keith Arneson, Pinnacle Properties, spoke in support of Option 3 regarding Domani 1,
highlighting his commitment to bringing additional lots to the market.
Kurt Friedrich, Friedrich Land Development Company, advocated for Option 3,
specifically a variation termed "3b," which would see the City assume responsibility for
the construction of a roundabout at the intersection of Cameron School Road and GW
Carver Avenue.
Nick Halfhill, ATI Group, outlined the phased development plans for Hayden's Preserve,
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emphasizing the need for infrastructure incentives to remain competitive with other
developments and expressed readiness to formalize agreements if the City moved
forward with Option 3.
The Public Input was closed by Mayor Haila when no one else came forward to speak.
The City Council Members discussed interest in having staff work with the developers to
create schedules of activities necessary to implement Option 3 for all projects, including
letters of intent from developers outlining their housing production commitments. It was
also reiterated that further investigation of the roundabout option at Cameron School
Road and GW Carver Avenue, including potential partnerships with Story County, was
important to determining next steps for the project.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Betcher, to direct staff to work with developers to
come up with an outline of a schedule of events and activities to facilitate Option 3 for all
projects.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Rollins, to direct staff to investigate partnership
with Story County to pursue a roundabout at the intersection of Cameron School Road and
GW Carver Avenue.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The meeting was recessed by Mayor Haila at 9:09 p.m. and reconvened at 9:18 p.m.
MODIFICATIONS TO MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 19, PARKS AND RECREATION,
TO CLARIFY EXPECTATIONS OF PARK USE: Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-
Hansen, to pass on second reading an ordinance regarding Modifications to Municipal
Code Chapter 19, Parks & Recreation, to clarify expectations of park use.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to direct staff to make changes based
on the City Council discussion during the December 9, 2025, Regular Meeting of the
Ames City Council.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
SECOND READING ON ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT FOR LANDSCAPING ROCK
MULCH WITHIN REQUIRED LANDSCAPE AREAS: Moved by Corrieri, seconded by
Gartin, to pass on second reading a Zoning Text Amendment for landscaping rock mulch
within required landscape areas.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
SECOND READING ON REZONING (WITH MASTER PLAN) FROM INTENSIVE
INDUSTRIAL TO GENERAL INDUSTRIAL FOR 23959 580TH AVENUE: Moved by
Corrieri, seconded by Gartin, to pass on second reading a rezoning (with Master Plan)
from Intensive Industrial to General Industrial for 23959 580th Avenue.
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Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
ROOSEVELT AVENUE PARKING PROHIBITIONS FROM 13TH STREET TO 16TH
STREET: Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Input when no one came forward to
speak.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Betcher, to pass on first reading an ordinance on
Roosevelt Avenue parking prohibitions from 13th Street to 16th Street.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Junck, to suspend the rules and allow for second
and third reading of an ordinance on Roosevelt Avenue parking prohibitions from 13th
Street to 16th Street.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to pass on second reading an ordinance
on Roosevelt Avenue parking prohibitions from 13th Street to 16th Street.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE
NO. 4578 on Roosevelt Avenue parking prohibitions from 13th Street to 16th Street.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
THIRD READING AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 4579 ON ZONING TEXT
AMENDMENT FOR THE SOUTH LINCOLN SUB AREA MIXED USE DISTRICT (S-
SMD) SINGLE FAMILY DESIGN STANDARDS: Moved by Corrieri, seconded by
Betcher, to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO. 4579 on Zoning Text
Amendment for the South Lincoln Sub Area Mixed Use District (S-SMD) Single Family
Design Standards.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
FY 2026/27 CITY COUNCIL BUDGET GUIDELINES: Director of Finance Corey
Goodenow, alongside Budget Manager Nancy Masteller, Assistant City Manager Pa Vang
Goldbeck, and Assistant City Manager Brian Phillips, detailed the budget guidelines.
Director Goodenow explained that staff was presenting a comprehensive perspective of
the upcoming year’s budget as well as soliciting feedback from the City Council on specific
components of the budget including overall funding allocations for human services, arts,
and Outside Funding Requests. He presented the history of property tax rollback trends
and the projections for the coming year. He discussed property tax limitations based on
growth tiers and highlighted exemption changes affecting military personnel and residents
aged 65 and over, which would result in revenue losses. This would be the final year for
commercial/industrial backfill elimination. Suggested user fee increases to maintain service
levels included building fees, Parks and Recreation programming fees, permit inspection
fees, and transaction fees. An overview of the general fund, highlighting a net available
balance of about $1 million from FY 2024/25, intended for one-time expenses, was also
included.
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The continuation of the Alternative Response for Community Health (ARCH) program was
noted, as well as funding requests for CyRide. Director Goodenow also presented
proposed utility rates, tipping fees for solid waste, and stormwater fees. Continued
challenges with the parking fund, which had exhibited modest losses consistently each
year, were reviewed. Instead of a rate increase, staff recommended reevaluation of the
parking system in coordination with the potential downtown parking structure. Estimated
tax increases resulting from the Fire Station No. 2 referendum and the new Fitch Family
Indoor Aquatic Center were also highlighted.
Director Goodenow presented information on projected interest rate revenue. In response
to questions from Mayor Haila regarding how the funds could be applied, Director
Goodenow explained the interest rate revenues would be reinvested into the funds from
which they were generated.
The Hotel/Motel Tax, Road Use Tax, and Local Option Sales Tax funds were reviewed.
The City Council Members inquired about the cause of the decrease in Road Use Tax and
Local Option Sales Tax revenues in FY 2024/25. Director Goodenow noted significant
increases in Road Use Tax revenue in prior years directly after the COVID-19 pandemic
related to motor fuel and vehicle registration taxes, however, there was not sufficient
information from the Iowa Department of Revenue to explain what caused the decrease in
FY 2024/25. At the direction of the City Council, staff agreed to request additional
information from the Iowa Department of Revenue regarding the decrease in Road Use
Tax fund revenue and from Story County regarding the decrease in Local Option Sales Tax
fund revenue. Lastly, an overview of changes to pension systems and health insurance
was provided.
Assistant City Manager Pa Vang Goldbeck presented details regarding funding for the
Analysis of Social Services Evaluation Team (ASSET), noting that staff was recommending
an increase of 3% for the program, with $100,000 reserved for case management.
Highlighted changes in requests included the addition of two new agencies, Creative
Counseling Services and Nevada Food at First, and six new services from existing partner
agencies, mainly focused on the areas of childcare and service coordination.
Council Member Gartin requested an overview of any notable changes to the types of
requests received this year. Assistant City Manager Goldbeck reported that there was an
increase in requests for subsidized childcare services. She also noted that there was a
significant funding request received from The Salvation Army for its hotel voucher program,
and that Primary Health Care had added new services relating to service coordination
which accounted for a large increase in its request as well. When asked by the City Council
if staff knew what percentage increase other ASSET partner funders were considering,
Assistant City Manager Goldbeck stated that conversations had indicated a 3% increase,
however, no formal determination had been made by the other funders at this time. Council
Members also discussed the allocation process and the differential in budgeted versus
contracted funds seen in previous years.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Corrieri, to approve a 3% increase over the FY
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2025/26 Analysis of Social Services Team (ASSET) Budget for FY 2026/27.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Assistant City Manager Brian Phillips presented the recommendation from staff of
$46,000 in funding for the Public Art Commission (PAC) for the upcoming fiscal year. This
amount aligned with previous years' allocations and supported PAC's efforts in promoting
public art initiatives.
He then reviewed details regarding funding for the Commission on the Arts (COTA),
explaining that COTA typically sets aside a portion of the funding for spring and fall mini
grants, which are smaller amounts for unforeseen opportunities or challenges faced by
arts agencies during the year. He emphasized that COTA would utilize the full amount of
whatever the City Council authorized, allocating funds for annual grants with the
remainder going to the special project grants. Staff was not recommending a specific
increase in funding for COTA but was instead providing options for the City Council to
consider. Assistant City Manager Phillips reminded the City Council Members that funds
for COTA came from the Local Option Sales Tax fund, which created some constraints
due to its position within the overall City budget.
Mayor Haila inquired if COTA commissioners would have a specific vision on how to
enhance the community utilizing the allotted funds. Assistant City Manager Phillips
explained that COTA was not soliciting specific types of art programs from grant
applicants, meaning that the types of art programs funded by COTA were driven by the
diverse agencies and their creative proposals. He also shared that for the current year
COTA had a substantial amount set aside for special project grants and had a difficult
time allocating all the funds. Because there was approximately $5,000 left over, COTA
was planning to solicit a third round of special project grant applications. Council Member
Rollins asked if COTA funds would be available for project development for ISU student
groups, to which Assistant City Manager Phillips replied in the affirmative stating that as
long as the recipient is an eligible organization (an arts agency or organization with arts
related objectives in its governing documents) requests from ISU student groups could
be eligible.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to approve a 3% increase over the FY 2025/26
Commission on the Arts (COTA) Budget for FY 2026/27.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Lastly, Assistant City Manager Phillips discussed the challenging nature of evaluating
Outside Funding Requests due to the diversity and differing objectives of the
organizations involved. These requests had typically come from varied agencies and
evaluation required understanding the unique impacts and benefits compared to City-
operated functions. Assistant City Manager Phillips explained that the fiscal source for
these funding requests was primarily the Local Option Sales Tax fund. Outside funding
also encompassed workforce initiatives and parking waivers financed from the
Hotel/Motel Tax fund. Noting a rise in the number of parking waiver requests, staff
recommended an increase from $10,000 to $16,000 for parking waivers. The current
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year's requests from local option funds totaled $378,000, an increase over the previous
year.
During discussion, Council Member Corrieri expressed the need to focus on funding
initiatives that align strategically with City Council priorities, including Main Street and
Campustown requests, citing broader community appeal and potential economic benefits
as reasons. She also spoke in support of prioritizing The Ames Foundation’s proposal for
public murals. Council Member Junck added that she was interested in getting more
information from all the applicants regarding their requests, including the requests from
Ames Main Street that she had pulled from the consent agenda citing discrepancies
regarding parking waivers in the proposals. Other City Council Members voiced their
agreement with directing staff to seek more detailed information on the funding sources
and expenses from all the requesting agencies.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Rollins, to approve a total of $365,000 of Local Option
Sales Tax Funding for Outside Funding Requests for FY 2026/27.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Gartin, to approve a total of $16,000 of Hotel/Motel Tax
Funding for Parking Waivers and $15,000 of Hotel/Motel Tax Funding for Workforce
Development.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Gartin, to direct staff to obtain additional information on
sources of funds and justification of expenses for all Outside Funding Requests and to
reconcile the discrepancies between items pulled from the Consent Agenda and the
associated requests.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Council Member Gartin expressed interest in directing staff to present on the criteria for
evaluating Outside Funding Requests at a future meeting. Other Council Members noted
there were evaluation guidelines in place and the applications had already been
submitted in consideration of those principles. Though there was some interest in fine-
tuning the criteria in the future, there was no action taken regarding the evaluation criteria
for Outside Funding Requests at this time.
DISPOSITION OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: Mayor Haila noted that there were
three items for consideration. The first was a memo from the Historic Preservation Commission
regarding Municipal Code Chapter 31 Revisions.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to refer the item to Planning and Housing staff
for a memo.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
A request for Land Use Comprehensive Plan Amendment from Boone County property
owner Leon Wuebker was the second item.
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Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to refer the item to Planning and Housing
staff for a memo.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The third item was a request regarding Ontario Street Workforce Housing Subdivision
from Ames Regional Economic Alliance Senior Vice President Brenda Dryer.
Moved by Rollins, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to refer the item to staff for a memo.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen noted an additional item that had been received by the
City Council via email from Dan Batha regarding the zoning and enforcement regulations
for a property located on South 4th Street bordering the pedestrian trail in Stuart Smith
Park.
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.
REPORT OF GOVERNING BODY: Council Member Betcher reported that Ames
Regional Economic Alliance had helped generate over $35 million in economic
development investments and nearly $620 million in capital investments.
Mayor Haila announced that the Story County Emergency Management meeting would
be held December 17, 2025, to work on the budget for the upcoming year.
Council Member Junck shared that the Ames Transit Agency Board of Trustees meeting
would be held on December 18, 2025.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Council Member Junck announced that the Joint Meeting with
ISU Student Government would be held on March 4, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the
Memorial Union Sun Room.
Council Member Gartin acknowledged the passing of two Iowa National Guardsmen:
Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar (25, Des Moines) and Sergeant William Nathaniel
Howard (29, Marshalltown), wishing condolences to their families.
Mayor Haila thanked the community for supporting the Wreaths Across America event
despite cold weather. He also acknowledged Dr. Wendy Winterstein's retirement from
ISU, congratulating her and thanking her for her partnership with the City.
MEMBERSHIP IN THE IOWA PUBLIC POWER AGENCY: Director of Electric Services
Donald Kom presented information about the Iowa Public Power Agency (IPPA), an
organization of municipal electric utilities formed in 2002 to collaboratively develop projects.
The agency now had over 60 members, and Ames had been invited to join at no cost.
Director Kom explained that membership would allow Ames to work with utilities like Cedar
Falls and Muscatine to serve their communities better.
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Council Member Gartin questioned the alignment of the IPPA's goals with Ames' values, to
which Director Kom affirmed that the organization's members shared a common purpose
of community service. Expanding further, he shared that if Ames were to become a member
of the IPPA, the City would not be bound by decisions made by other partner cities but
would rather be working collaboratively on projects alongside them. Council Member
Rollins asked for more information regarding jointly owned transmission projects. Director
Kom explained that in the two existing jointly owned transmission projects, working together
allowed the municipalities to invest in the ownership of new transmission, which they would
not have been able to fund individually. This allowed them to share the benefits of owning
transmission versus renting. This was also beneficial to MidAmerican Energy, as it was
able to work with a single organization, rather than with each of the municipalities
separately.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-627 approving
Application and Agreement for Membership in the Iowa Public Power Agency.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
Director Kom detailed the necessity of a confidentiality agreement for membership in the
IPPA due to the sensitive nature of discussions related to electric transmission planning
and critical infrastructure. City Attorney Mark Lambert confirmed that the confidentiality
agreement aligned with the Iowa Code, allowing discussions to remain private around
critical infrastructure, which could be legitimately discussed in closed sessions. In
response to questions from the City Council, City Attorney Lambert confirmed that all
current members of the IPPA have signed the confidentiality agreement and that the
agreement, once signed, would be binding and last indefinitely.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Rollins, to authorize and approve the Confidentiality
Agreement regarding electric transmission planning and construction and critical
energy infrastructure.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
CLOSED SESSION: Mayor Haila asked City Attorney Mark Lambert if there was a legal
reason to go into Closed Session. Attorney Lambert replied in the affirmative, citing Iowa
Code Sections 21.5(1)(a), 388.9(1), and 21.5(1)(k), to review or discuss records which
are required or authorized by state or federal law to be kept confidential; to discuss
proprietary information and information required by a noncustomer contracting party to
be kept confidential pursuant to a nondisclosure agreement which relates to electric
transmission planning and construction and critical energy infrastructure; and to discuss
information contained in records in the custody of a governmental body that are
confidential records pursuant to Section 22.7, Subsection 50.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to go into Closed Session at 10:39 p.m.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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The City Council reconvened in Regular Session at 10:59 p.m.
Moved by Rollins, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 25-628 approving
Joint Development Agreement and Payment of Initial Payment Required Therein.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adjourn the
meeting at 10:59 p.m.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
______________________________ ________________________________
Taylor Swanson, Deputy City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
______________________________
Renee Hall, City Clerk