HomeMy WebLinkAboutA001 - February 5, 2026, Special Meeting of the Ames City Council, Extended Minutes1
MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA FEBRUARY 4, 2026
The Special Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor John Haila
at 5:15 p.m. on the 4th day of February, 2026, in the City Council Chambers in City Hall,
515 Clark Avenue, pursuant to law. Present were Council Members Bronwyn Beatty -
Hansen, Amber Corrieri, Tim Gartin, Rachel Junck, and Anita Rollins. Ex officio Emily
Boland was also present. Council Member Gloria Betcher joined the meeting
electronically.
FY 2026/27 BUDGET PROPOSALS: Director of Parks and Recreation Keith Abraham
began with an overview of the operating budget for Parks and Recreation with input from
Parks Superintendent Joshua Thompson and Recreation Superintendent Courtney Kort.
He provided an overview of personnel costs that impacted the operating budget,
highlighting that the Department was staffed by 31 full-time employees (FTEs) and
various part-time and temporary employees. He shared that the programs and services
offered by the Department would not be possible without part-time staff that worked nearly
66,000 hours in the last fiscal year, which was equivalent to 32 FTEs.
Director Abraham then shared metrics that compared Ames to national averages
provided by the National Recreation and Park Association. Ames boasted 19.2 acres of
parkland per 1,000 residents, significantly above the national average of 10.2.
Additionally, Ames had nearly twice as much parkland compared to the national average,
while operating expenditures per capita remained below the national average. Director
Abraham stated that the Department prides itself on effectively using public funds and
has implemented strategies that focus on cost recovery, outperforming many
municipalities nationwide.
Proposed fee adjustments were then reviewed by Director Abraham. He explained that
37% of activities and programs would experience a fee increase this year, emphasizing
that not all fees were increased annually. The Department evaluated fees based on
industry trends and local circumstances, aiming to make thoughtful and strategic
adjustments to sustain operations and ensure programs remain accessible to all
community members.
Scholarship programs were the next point of focus. Although one in four students in Story
County were eligible for free and reduced lunch, the utilization of scholarships within the
Parks and Recreation programs was relatively low, with only 46 registrations totaling
$1,200. Currently, scholarships were provided at a 50% rate, but Recreation
Superintendent Kort noted that staff was considering a varied scholarship approach to
engage participants that may require 25% funding and others that may benefit from a fully
funded scholarship.
Community engagement and support were important themes throughout the
presentation. Director Abraham mentioned the Duck Derby fundraiser, which sold over
400 ducks to support the scholarship fund. Friends groups also contributed significantly
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to the Department, providing nearly $40,000 in funding for various programs and
improvements. A particularly passionate group was forming for Ontario Park, with plans
to finalize bylaws and begin organized support. Director Abraham mentioned that the
aforementioned group would help inform the Ontario Park Master Plan that he previously
detailed during the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) Workshop.
Director Abraham provided an update on a proposed future CIP project, highlighting that
the proposed recreation center was allocated $100,000 for a study to explore potential
locations, conceptual planning, and associated costs. The study also aimed to address
the growing need for gym space and improved scheduling options for programs. Possible
additions to the recreation infrastructure could include four full -sized courts capable of
supporting various activities like volleyball, pickleball, and open gym.
Regarding aquatics, there was enthusiasm about the Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center
(FFIAC), which was expected to open in April. The facility would allow the Department to
expand swim lesson offerings and lifeguard certifications throughout the year, previously
constrained due to the closure of the Municipal Pool and space limitations at Iowa State
University (ISU) facilities where lessons were currently being held.
Director Abraham then reviewed the balance of the enterprise funds. He focused on
Homewood Golf Course, a facility that continued to see increasing rounds played each
fiscal year. The facility maintained a healthy fund balance projected to exceed $800,000
by the end of the current fiscal year, even with the $300,000 allocation for expanding
parking availability at the clubhouse. Director Abraham also highlighted that the
Department had secured grant funding for significant projects, including $200,000
Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) grants for both the Memorial Park Bridge
and the Ontario Park Bridge, underscoring the commitment of staff to fiscal stewardship.
Council Member Rollins asked about progress on projects from the previous year, and
Director Abraham reported that staff had reduced the list from 57 projects to fewer than
20 projects, with most expected to be completed by the end of the next fiscal year.
Council Member Betcher inquired about adaptive programming partnerships. Recreation
Superintendent Kort explained that staff was exploring options with Can Play, which offers
a variety of activities similar to Special Olympics. She stated that successful partnerships
have involved collaboration with local universities for volunteer assistance , so staff was
seeking connections with ISU instructors to develop those opportunities . She concluded
that it was the hope of staff to offer programming in multiple accessible locations across
the community.
Council Member Gartin asked about community gardens, and Director Abraham noted
staff generally accommodated all interested gardeners and the exploration of potential
expansion at Ontario Park was under discussion. Council Member Gartin also inquired
about nutrition programming. Director Abraham acknowledged staff discussed this
holistic approach to wellness and has experimented with offering youth cooking classes.
He confirmed that staff would continue to explore nutrition initiatives.
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Director Abraham then presented the Cemetery operating budget, noting increases in tax
subsidy related to staffing changes with the addition of an Office Manager. The budget
also included increased funding for mowing and dollars to begin raising sunken grave
markers in the Garden of Memories section.
Finally, Director Abraham discussed the work completed by staff concerning risk tree
removal, pruning, and planting, including $15,000 secured in grants for tree planting. For
Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) management, the Department was now in the 12 th year of the
plan and had removed more trees than initially projected in each category. Director
Abraham estimated 121 ash trees remaining by the end of the current fiscal year, and
with current removal rates of roughly 30 trees annually, staff expected to complete the
plan four years sooner than initially expected.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen inquired about opportunities to partner on right-of-way
maintenance where responsibilities overlap with other agencies, such as the Department
of Transportation (DOT). Director Abraham noted there was communication with
agencies like the DOT to address maintenance needs and sometimes the Department
handled small areas of maintenance if it aligned with its planned activities. Coordination
opportunities also existed with the ISU for services like snow plowing, enhancing
cooperation across agencies.
Director of Electric Services Donald Kom and Assistant Director Curtis Spence continued
the proposals for Electric Services. Director Kom reported a proposed budget of slightly
over $67 million, an increase from the FY 2025 -26 adopted budget. He observed the
electric peak for the past year was 127 megawatts, below the all-time peak of 138
megawatts, before reviewing customer rates. He shared rate comparisons with other
utilities, showing Ames as competitive across residential, commercial, and industrial
benchmarks.
Next, Director Kom presented the proposed operating budget for each division of service
provided by the Department. First, the Electric Administration budget was noted to have
increased by 6.8% due to a planned cost of service study related to transitionin g away
from waste-to-energy generation and the analysis of time-of-use rates as the advanced
metering infrastructure (AMI) was implemented.
The Demand Side Management budget decreased by 7.2%. The Department adjusted
rebate programs to incentivize meaningful energy savings rather than rewarding actions
customers were already undertaking, like buying LED bulbs. Director Kom also
emphasized beneficial electrification education, enhancements to the Smart Business
Challenge, and implementing an on-bill financing program to support customers installing
advanced energy-saving technologies.
In the Electric Production budget, which saw a 3.1% decrease, savings emerged from
decreased contractual expenses and long-term maintenance reductions for Units 7 and
8 due to the scheduled sunset of waste-to-energy operations in 2027.
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The Fuel and Purchase Power Division saw increased costs driven by rising natural gas
pipeline and supply costs, increasing the overall operating budget by 8.4%. To mitigate
cost increases, the Department reduced its firm capacity from 12,000 to 8,000
dekatherms, which still resulted in budget management challenges due to higher costs
per megawatt-hour, growing loads, and greater market purchases.
Electric Distribution saw a 16.7% increase prompted by the reorganization of personnel
that brought Substation staff under Distribution. Director Kom emphasized that the
reorganization allowed for better operational efficiency between line workers and
substation employees. The Division was also supporting developments like The Linc,
Discovery Point, and CyTown. Additionally, coordination with Public Works is underway
to preemptively relocate utility lines for various street widening projects.
The Electric Technical Services budget decreased by 56% as a result of shifting
personnel costs. Director Kom shared that Technical Services successfully led the rollout
of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) installations ahead of the anticipated timeline,
with nearly 3,900 meters installed to date. He highlighted that completion of the
installations was expected by October.
Electric Engineering experienced a 4% budget decrease. Director Kom noted that the
Division was focused on the 69 kV loop overhaul, with the Mortensen to Vet Med line
expected to be completed within a week. Future priorities included completing the next
segment of 69 kV installation from the Ames Plant to Top -O-Hollow. Engineering was also
collaborating with the Prairie View substation development, which promised additional
benefits for the City's electrical infrastructure in the long term.
Director Kom concluded by noting that the Electric Fund balance was projected to end
with slightly over $28 million for FY 2026-27, maintaining a targeted minimum balance of
$20 million.
Council Member Gartin queried about the SunSmart Solar program status, to which
Director Kom noted the utility had sold nearly 77% of the solar farm capacity, with the
remaining balance served by the utility. Despite initial hopes for expansion due to higher
demand, the current capacity is yet to fully sell out, meaning future solar installations
would likely center around municipal ownership.
Director Kom also briefly reported an update on the storm warning system, confirming
recent tests showed all sirens operating as expected, before turning the presentation over
to Fire Chief Rich Higgins.
Chief Higgins, alongside Deputy Fire Chiefs Tom Hackett and Karen Tapper, reviewed
the proposed budget for Fire Safety. Chief Higgins shared that the operating budget
showed a 3.9% increase, including the addition of a new firefighter. He acknowledged
Iowa State University's contribution of 25% of the operating budget, totaling over $2
million.
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Chief Higgins highlighted the Department's recognition program for firefighters who assist
in childbirth, perform heroic acts, or successfully revive someone in cardiac arrest, noting
they have changed the lives of 26 families since 2017 through successful CPR
interventions. The Department's annual Family Appreciation Day celebrate d these
achievements as well as recognized the newly sworn in firefighters.
Concerning Fire Station No. 2, Chief Higgins thanked the City Council and voters for the
support in approving the construction of a new station and shared an estimated project
timeline. He then showcased the Department's training site, which was built incrementally
since 2019 using carryover funds, with plans to add a second story to the apartment
complex training prop.
Next, Chief Higgins reviewed statistics for the Department. He reported that the
Department responded to 6,394 calls in 2023, a 50% increase over the past decade.
Medical calls accounted for 44% of call volume, lower than the national average of 65%
for departments that provide EMS, partly due to the Alternative Response for Community
Health (ARCH) program handling mental health crisis calls. He emphasized the
importance of rapid response times, noting the Department's turnout time improvement
of being 10% quicker than the national standard last year, with current year -to-date
tracking at 15% faster.
Chief Higgins shared several examples of the Department's emergency response,
including a wind-driven fire where crews rescued a non-ambulatory individual, a stovetop
fire contained by sprinklers, and various technical rescue operations. These examples
illustrated the Department's quick thinking and dedication to community safety and
underscored the success of fire prevention education.
Equipment improvements were then highlighted by Chief Higgins, including smaller, more
cost-effective rescue trucks, which replaced larger, less efficient vehicles, leading to
significant cost savings. Chief Higgins also showcased a new lightweight inflatable rescue
boat, acquired with depreciated funds and Fleet Services collaboration, designed to
access areas that traditional boats cannot.
Chief Higgins emphasized that 92.7% of the proposed operating budget was personnel
costs, making it difficult to purchase specialized technical rescue equipment. He credited
Training Officer AJ Plach for securing grants ranging from $100 to $31,000 to help fund
equipment purchases. The Department focused on readiness for a wide range of
emergencies, including vehicle extrication, water rescue, and confined space entry, which
require continual training and specialized gear.
Fire prevention efforts included an enhanced open house at Fire Station No. 1 which was
attended by 1,200 people. Chief Higgins also highlighted the Stop the Bleed program,
which placed bleeding control kits in all schools and buses throughout the community,
with staff trained to use them. He emphasized that community partnerships and proactive
safety education play a critical role in minimizing fire-related injuries and enhancing
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overall community resilience.
Then, Chief Higgins presented the Building Safety operating budget, proposing a 5%
increase in trade and building permits, the first adjustment since 2013. This increase
would not fully fund projected expenditures, with an estimated $58,000 shortfall for t he
next fiscal year, but would reduce reliance on the General Fund.
The Department was also proposing rental housing fee increases ranging from $1.44 to
$2.89 per unit, which would generate an additional $30,500 but still leave a $6,200
shortfall. Chief Higgins noted the City had 133 additional rental units anticipated for next
year based on current permits. Chief Higgins discussed the additional struggle of credit
card fees impacting the anticipated shortfall in both building permits and rental housing
registrations.
Chief Higgins shared photos of various safety issues discovered during inspections,
including improper electrical setups, inadequate egress windows, water damage, and
questionable structural solutions, emphasizing the importance of education in building
safety.
Council Member Gartin praised the Inspections Division and then asked about the
potential for drone and robot technology in dangerous fire situations. Chief Higgins
explained that staff currently partners with the Ames Police Department and Story County
Sheriff's Office for drone support rather than dedicating firefighters to operate them, and
noted that robotic firefighting technology is advancing but still developing. He emphasized
that the Department would continue to explore innovative solutions to enhance firefighter
safety and operational efficiency.
Mayor Haila observed the statement from Chief Higgins regarding credit card processing
fees.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to refer to staff for a memo that analyzes
the concept of passing credit card fees to the customer and how it would be implemented
across different City services.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Chief of Police Geoff Huff concluded with review of the proposed budgets for activities in
the areas of Law Enforcement and Animal Control. He emphasized ongoing personnel
challenges, reporting that there are currently five open police officer positions. Chief Huff
highlighted recent recruitment efforts, which have resulted in hiring five officers who were
expected to complete training and be in the field by mid-summer. He also noted the
continuous need for dispatchers and community safety officers.
The community engagement efforts led by the Department were detailed by Chief Huff.
He spotlighted National Night Out, which had grown significantly in attendance. He shared
that the celebration included the distribution of 1,200 pairs of school shoes, made possible
through partnerships with local businesses and organizations. Other outreach programs
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included Shop with a Cop, where officers assist families in need during the holidays, and
community events like Coffee with Cops and Donuts in the Park, which provide informal
settings for community interactions.
Chief Huff introduced the latest initiative from the Department, the crisis canine program,
featuring K-9 Penny and her handler, Sergeant Amber Christian, who were trained to
provide emotional support in traumatic situations. K-9 Penny had already accompanied
officers on 35 calls since October, offering a comforting presence to both community
members and officers during crisis responses.
On the topic of crime statistics, Chief Huff acknowledged a concerning rise in thefts and
sexual assaults over the past year, with thefts significantly higher than previous years. He
emphasized the importance of the ARCH program, a pivotal element in the response to
mental health crises, which not only aided individuals directly but also reduced the
workload for police officers. With the investment from the City of $130,000 in the ARCH
program, the results have shown improved outcomes and resource efficiency, alleviating
strain on emergency resources such as the ER.
Addressing technological advancements, Chief Huff shared insights into the small drone
program administered by the Department, which used federal forfeiture funds for
equipment acquisition. Drones were proving valuable for operations requiring aerial
views, enhancing search capabilities, and supporting crowd control activities. However,
potential legal challenges with drones manufactured outside the U.S. could affect
operations, which the Department was monitoring closely.
Chief Huff also briefed the City Council on legislative developments concerning the
possible consolidation of communication centers, which might require Ames to merge
with other regional dispatch centers. He highlighted the challenges this would pose,
especially with maintaining the quality of local response despite potential staffing
adjustments and physical space limitations.
In terms of driving safety, Chief Huff commented on traffic -related issues, particularly
distracted driving. The Department issued 33 citations under the newly enforceable
hands-free phone usage laws since its implementation, highlighting both the risks of
mobile devices while driving and the ongoing need for public education on road safety.
Finally, Chief Huff elaborated on proactive crime prevention measures, where staff
continue to focus on quality-of-life issues such as noise complaints, which have seen a
minor uptick, and domestic violence calls, which have decreased.
Council Member Gartin asked about organized gang activity in Ames, and Chief Huff
reported seeing less activity in the past year. Council Member Rollins inquired about
partnerships with Iowa State University Police. Chief Huff confirmed strong relationships
continue through shared systems and training. Council Member Betcher asked about the
impact of the ARCH program, and Chief Huff affirmed it has significantly reduced officer
workload while improving outcomes for individuals in crisis.
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Next, Chief Huff presented the operating budget for Animal Control. He presented plans
for the new animal shelter, displaying the proposed layout with separated spaces for dogs
and cats, medical treatment areas, and improved quarantine capabilities. He noted the
shelter maintains a live release rate of over 98%, earning recognition from the Best
Friends Animal Society.
Finally, Chief Huff discussed parking operations, noting staff was anticipating the eventual
end of traditional parking meters. The Department would need to transition to alternative
payment systems, building on the existing ParkMobile smartphone payment option. He
highlighted the numbers of tickets issued, observing a total of 25,425 parking tickets
issued last year. The enhanced penalties of $75 for game day parking violations resulted
in approximately 200 tickets per home football game, totaling 1,217 ti ckets across six
home games. Chief Huff indicated staff may recommend extending the special event
parking fine to upcoming concerts as well.
Mayor Haila inquired about the impact of the increased fines. Chief Huff noted that
another year of data was necessary before an analysis of the impact would be beneficial.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Ex officio Boland suggested discussing the Capital
Improvements Plan and major projects that would impact students at the upcoming joint
meeting with ISU Student Government.
Council Member Gartin expressed appreciation for the outreach efforts highlighted by
Police and Fire Departments during the presentations.
Council Member Betcher acknowledged the retirement of Wellness Manager Nancy
Shaw, highlighting her contributions and impact to the City's wellness program.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Rollins, seconded by Junck, to adjourn the meeting at 7:49
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