HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - April 14, 2026, Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council, Extended Minutes1
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA APRIL 14, 2026
The Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor John Haila at
6:00 p.m. on the 14th day of April, 2026, 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, Rachel Junck, Anita Rollins, and Tim Gartin. Ex officio
Emily Boland was also present.
PROCLAMATION FOR "FAIR HOUSING MONTH," APRIL 2026: Mayor Haila
proclaimed April 2026 as “Fair Housing Month,” commemorating the 58th anniversary of
the Fair Housing Act. He highlighted the commitment of the City of Ames to equitable
housing access. Housing Coordinator Vanessa Baker-Latimer accepted the proclamation
alongside Annabella Marquez, Chair of the Ames Human Relations Commission, and
Tracy Jennings, President of the Central Iowa Board of Realtors.
Chair Marquez presented the 2026 “A Home for Everyone” Award to Martha’s House of
Hope, represented by Executive Director Tara Brown . The award recognized the hard
work of the organization in providing housing and wraparound support for pregnant and
parenting mothers facing homelessness, with particular attention to culturally sensitive
services for immigrant mothers and internation al students. Director Brown expressed
gratitude to the Mayor, City Council, and Ames Human Relations Commission for the
support of fair housing in Ames.
PROCLAMATION FOR "WEEK OF THE YOUNG CHILD," APRIL 11-17, 2026: April 11-
17, 2026, was proclaimed the “Week of the Young Child” by Mayor Haila. He emphasized
the critical importance of early childhood development and community investment in
children. Chuck Gilarsky of the Ames Morning Rotary Club and Jerri Heid of Raising
Readers of Story County accepted the proclamation. Mr. Gilarsky shared information on
the Reach Out and Read program, which provides books to children at medical checkups
during their first five years, and Ms. Heid described a new countywide early literacy
initiative encouraging adults to tune in, talk more, and take turns with young children to
build language development.
PROCLAMATION FOR "NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK," APRIL 19-25, 2026: Mayor
Haila proclaimed April 19-25, 2026, as “National Library Week” under the theme "Find
Your Joy." Ames Public Library Director Sheila Schofer accepted the proclamation
alongside Library Board of Trustees President Richard Johnson and board member
Morgan Dennis. She thanked the Mayor and City Council Members for their ongoing
support. She reflected on her 30 years in the library profession and highlight ed the daily
joy experienced by patrons of all ages.
PROCLAMATION FOR "NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK," APRIL 19-25, 2026: April
19-25, 2026, was proclaimed “National Volunteer Week” by Mayor Haila. Jehan Faisal,
Volunteer Coordinator for the Ames Public Library, accepted the proclamatio n. She
acknowledged the critical role volunteers play and introduced vital volunteer organizers in
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the Ames community that were present at the meeting, including Ashley Thompson,
President and CEO of United Way of Story County; Abby Wyman, Volunteer Coordinator
at the Ames Animal Shelter; Hannah Bell, Volunteer Coordinator for Raising Readers in
Story County; and Christie Mayo, Executive Director of Raising Readers in Story County.
CONSENT AGENDA: Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to approve the
Consent Agenda as amended.
5. Motion approving payment of claims
6. Motion approving Report of Change Orders for period of March 16-31, 2026
7. Motion approving Summary of Minutes of the Special City Council Meeting on
March 24, 2026, Summary of Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting on March
24, 2026, and Minutes of the Special Meeting on March 27, 2026
8. Motion approving Temporary Outdoor Service for Class C Alcohol License with
Outdoor Service - Sips and Paddy's Irish Pub, 126 Welch Avenue, May 14 - May
17, 2026
9. Motion approving new 5-Day (May 1-5, 2026) Special Class C Retail Alcohol
License - Schonert's Patisserie LLC, 2321 North Loop Drive
10. Motion approving new Class C Retail Alcohol License with Outdoor Service - Mary
Jane's, 119 Main Street, Pending Dramshop Review
11. Motion approving the renewal of the following Alcohol Licenses:
a. Cyclone Experience Network, 1705 Center Drive - Hilton Coliseum, Class C
Retail Alcohol License with Catering Privilege and Outdoor Service, Pending
Dramshop Review
b. Hy-Vee Ames Fast and Fresh 2, 636 Lincoln Way, Class E Retail Alcohol
License
c. Provisions Lot F, 2400 North Loop Drive, Class C Retail Alcohol License with
Catering Privilege and Outdoor Service, Pending Dramshop Review
d. Wasabi Somerset, 2707 Kent Avenue, Class C Retail Alcohol License with
Outdoor Service, Pending Dramshop Review
12. Motion approving appointment of Steve Schainker to the Executive Board of the
Mid-Iowa Planning Alliance
13. Motion accepting Fiscal Year 2025/26 Third Quarter Financial Report
14. Motion approving request from Iowa Multisport for the Ames Triathlon to close three
CyRide Brown Route Stops on Bloomington Road from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on
Sunday, June 28, 2026
15. RESOLUTION NO. 26-213 setting April 28, 2026, as date of Public Hearing on a
long-term lease with Xenia Rural Water District for portions of 900 S 500 th Avenue
(Mortensen and County Line Water Tower parcel)
16. RESOLUTION NO. 26-214 approving Memorandum of Understanding with Story
County to apply for grant funding under the 2025 Department of Justice, Office of
Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance Edward Byrne Memorial Justice
Assistance Grant (JAG) Program and authorize application for that grant
17. RESOLUTION NO. 26-215 approving Encroachment Permit for sign located at 119
Main Street - Mary Jane's Bar & Stage
18. RESOLUTION NO. 26-216 waiving Purchasing Policies and Procedures
requirement for competitive bids and approving a contract to ESI FAB Systems,
LLC, of Olathe, KS, in the amount of $69,975 for the purchase of a Pressure
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Reducing Valve Assembly for the Freel Drive Paving project
19. RESOLUTION NO. 26-217 approving Quarterly Investment Report for period
ending March 31, 2026
20. RESOLUTION NO. 26-218 approving Iowa DOT Funding Agreements for Iowa
Clean Air Attainment Program funding of $1,213,760 and Carbon Reduction
Program funding of $940,000 for the Intelligent Transportation Systems Program
(Phase 5)
21. RESOLUTION NO. 26-219 approving enhanced penalties for nuisance party
violations for Cyclone Welcome Weekend beginning at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August
21 and ending at 4:00 a.m. on Sunday, August 23, 2026
22. RESOLUTION NO. 26-220 approving immediate towing of illegally parked vehicles
for Cyclone Welcome Weekend on Saturday, August 22, 2026
23. RESOLUTION NO. 26-221 approving contract and bond for the Sanitary Sewer and
Manhole Rehabilitation (Basin 11) Project with Municipal Pipe Tool Co. LLC, of
Hudson, IA, in the amount of $1,616,102.90
24. RESOLUTION NO. 26-222 approving contract and bond for the Sanitary Sewer
Rehabilitation (E. Lincoln Way and Nikkol Trunk Line) Project with Municipal Pipe
Tool Co. LLC, of Hudson, IA, in the amount of $4,462,230.40
25. RESOLUTION NO. 26-223 approving Waiver of City Review for a Rural Minor
Subdivision within Story County at 50184 180th Street
26. RESOLUTION NO. 26-224 approving Change Order No. 2 in the amount of
$81,792.08 for the 2024/25 CDBG Infrastructure Program (S Riverside Drive - S 4th
St to Lincoln Way) Project
27. RESOLUTION NO. 26-225 awarding a contract to Eide Bailly, LLP, Dubuque, IA,
in the amount of $86,000 to professionally audit the City’s financial statements for
Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2026
28. Iowa State Research Park Phase IV First Addition Final Plat:
a. RESOLUTION NO. 26-226 approving Major Final Plat and Public
Improvements Agreement
b. RESOLUTION NO. 26-227 approving Agreement to Accept the Transfer of
Approximately 16.06 Acres of Water Service Territory from Xenia Rural
Water to City of Ames
*. ADDITIONAL ITEM: Final Plat for the Bluffs at Dankbar Farms 5 th Addition (Domani
II):
a. RESOLUTION NO. 26-239 approving the Final Plat
b. RESOLUTION NO. 26-240 accepting the Public Improvements Agreement
29. Townhomes at Creekside HOME Agreement Amendment Request
a. RESOLUTION NO. 26-228 authorizing amendments to Duration of
Affordability Period
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motions/Resolutions declared carried/adopted unanimously, signed by
the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
PUBLIC FORUM: Mayor Haila opened the Public Forum.
Jason Allen addressed homelessness issues and concerns regarding services provided
by The Bridge Home. Mayor Haila arranged for Mr. Allen to connect with Assistant City
Manager Pa Vang Goldback for more information about available resources.
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Rhonda Frerichs spoke about the Ontario Workforce Housing Subdivision , encouraging
the City Council to maintain the current zoning of residential low density. She identified a
number of questions regarding the proposed development and Mayor Haila suggested she
submit a written list of questions to staff for follow-up on her concerns.
Max Porter highlighted comments concerning the proposed Planning Division Work Plan.
Mayor Haila requested that Dr. Porter reserve his comments until that agenda item.
Luke Jensen presented a unique opportunity to add residential housing in the Downtown ,
which had a due diligence period ending in June 2026. He indicated that his proposal was
included in Dispositions of Communication and asked for clear direction from the City
Council to determine a path forward.
Grant Olsen opposed the Ontario Workforce Housing Subdivision , highlighting safety
needs for multi-modal transportation and a preference for prairie preservation. He
encouraged the City Council to rethink the overall development of the site.
Mayor Haila closed the Public Forum when no one else came forward to speak.
HEARING ON CITY OF AMES BUDGET: Finance Director Corey Goodenow noted that
on March 24th the City Council had set the date for a Public Hearing on both the FY
2025/26 Adjusted Budget and the FY 2026/27 Budget, the adoption of which would
complete the statutory budget process. Both himself and Budget Manager Nancy Masteller
were available for questions.
The Public Hearing for the Fiscal Year 2025/26 Adjusted Budget and Fiscal Year 2026/27
Budget was opened by Mayor Haila. The Public Hearing was subsequently closed by
Mayor Haila when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 26-229 authorizing
and approving the Fiscal Year 2025/26 Adjusted Budget.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 26-230 authorizing
and approving the Fiscal Year 2026/27 Budget.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENT TO THE 2025/26 CDBG/HOME ANNUAL
ACTION PLAN TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
(HUD): Housing Coordinator Vanessa Baker-Latimer explained the purpose of the
substantial amendment to the 2025/26 CDBG/HOME Annual Action Plan to the
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The amendment sought to
reallocate resources to move a public infrastructure project, specifically the replacement
of deteriorated water and sewer lines in census tract 10 along South Maple and South
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Russell Avenues, into the current FY 2025/26 plan from the originally planned FY 2026/27
action plan. The rationale was to ensure the City could timely spend anticipated program
income generated by upcoming lot sales at the Baker Subdivision, thereby avoiding a HUD
timeliness test failure. She noted the City's annual allocation would not arrive until
September, making early project preparation prudent.
Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Hearing when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 26-231 approving
the submittal of a substantial amendment to the 2025/26 CDBG/HOME Action Plan .
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON 2025/26 RIGHT-OF-WAY RESTORATION PROGRAM: Public Works
Director Justin Clausen explained that the aforementioned program consolidated
vegetative restoration for all capital improvement projects under one contract to achieve
better results and cost management.
The Public Hearing was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to
speak.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Junck, to accept the report of bids.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 26-232 approving final
plans and specifications and awarding a contract to Steven's Erosion Control of Des
Moines, IA, in the amount of $166,264.49.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
HEARING ON FREEL DRIVE PAVING PROGRAM: Director Clausen discussed the
paving project for Freel Drive adjacent to the new Resource Recovery and Recycling
Campus, including an alternate for sidewalk installation.
Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Hearing when no one came forward to speak.
Moved by Rollins, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to accept the report of bids.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Rollins, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 26-233
approving final plans and specifications and awarding a contract to Con -Struct, of Ames,
IA, in the amount of $1,012,310.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
AMES: A GLIMPSE INSIDE EVENT : City Manager Steve Schainker reviewed a request
for funding a historic architecture tour scheduled for October 17, 2026, highlighting City
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Hall as one of the selected tour sites. He noted that the request was for $1,500, which
could be paid from the allocated budget for the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC)
or through funds from Council Contingency. City Manager Schainker clarified that the
Ames Foundation would serve as the financial agent, reimbursing expenditures on a
receipt basis.
Council Member Betcher expressed concern that drawing from the HPC budget could
leave the Commission short of funds for training or speakers during the year, given the
unpredictability of its annual spending. Council Member Gartin acknowledged the small
dollar amount but noted philosophically that this type of expenditure aligned squarely with
the mission of the Commission, noting a preference for allocating a line item in its budget
for this request should it be anticipated on an annual basis.
The Public Input was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to
speak.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 26-234 approving
$1,500 from the Council Contingency Fund for FY 2026/27 for the Ames: A Glimpse Inside
Event.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
ACCESSIBILITY OF WEB INFORMATION AND SERVICES POLICY: Assistant City
Manager Goldbeck alongside Communications and Outreach Manager Susan Gwiasda
presented the City's comprehensive digital accessibility compliance efforts to meet
Department of Justice requirements with an April 24, 2026, deadline. Assistant City
Manager Goldbeck described several steps already taken, including the development of
internal digital accessibility training for managers and supervisors, the creation of a cross-
departmental Digital Accessibility Task Force meeting monthly, the publication of an
accessibility statement on the City's website, and the launch of specialized software -
specific training sessions. Before-and-after examples illustrated improvements in color
contrast and the handling of text in images and social media posts.
The presentation also addressed video recording requirements. Manager Gwiasda noted
that effective upon the deadline, meeting recordings would require audio descriptions. She
shared that audio descriptions narrate the actions of speakers aloud for the benefit of
visually impaired viewers. The most immediate actionable improvement for the City
Council was identified as consistent microphone technique to improve automated closed
captioning accuracy, reducing the manual effort required in post -production.
Council Member Gartin inquired whether any content would be lost due to compliance
requirements. Manager Gwiasda clarified that archival content predating the compliance
deadline does not require retroactive remediation. Council Member Gartin also noted that
non-compliant cities were subject to substantial federal fines, and that the compliance
effort underway at the City paralleled large undertakings at institutions such as Iowa State
University. Manager Gwiasda further detailed that the ongoing work was not about limiting
information but ensuring broader access, maintaining the goal of expanding the audience
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that can use City resources.
Council Member Rollins asked whether the City was collaborating with peer cities.
Manager Gwiasda replied in the affirmative, highlighting that the effort included evaluating
technologies to manage and adapt existing content as well as learning best practices from
other cities to handle the transition effectively. She noted that staff participated in statewide
and national peer networks and that the City was considered to be ahead of many
comparable communities in its compliance progress.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 26-235
approving Accessibility of Web Information and Services Policy .
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
PROPOSED 2026/27 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN PROJECTS FOR COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) AND HOME PROGRAMS: Coordinator
Baker-Latimer discussed the proposed projects to address the needs of low- and
moderate-income households in the Ames community consistent with the goal s and
priorities identified in the Consolidated Plan along with the estimated budget. She reported
that on April 3, 2026, the City received its federal allocations: $547,112 in CDBG funding
and $275,079 in HOME funding. The City also received an approved extension to submit
the action plan no later than August 16, 2026.
The proposed CDBG program included a homebuyer assistance program, continued
disposition of Baker Subdivision properties, and a public facilities rehabilitation program
for nonprofits. A public infrastructure project replaced the originally proposed water main
project. The proposed HOME program shifted toward funding single-family home
construction on the remaining lots at Baker Subdivision, with approximately $900,000
budgeted to assist construction of approximately three of the six remaining affordable lots.
Coordinator Baker-Latimer indicated that no public comments were received at either of
the public forums held in March.
Council Member Gartin asked for clarification on how the HOME budget line would be
used. Coordinator Baker-Latimer explained the funds would support construction costs by
partnering with a developer or a nonprofit homebuilder, using a recapture provision to
maintain affordability and requiring the home to be sold to another first-time homebuyer or
requiring repayment of funds if sold outside those terms. CDBG funds would separately
assist with down payment assistance. Coordinator Baker-Latimer confirmed that the City
Council would have an opportunity to review and provide input on the specific terms before
any agreement was finalized, and that depending on funding availability, all six remaining
lots could potentially be developed rather than just three.
Council Member Betcher asked whether the modest funding decreases were consistent
with what other entitlement communities were experiencing. Coordinator Baker-Latimer
noted that Polk County's recent designation as an entitlement community means it now
shared in Iowa's allocation, reducing the amounts available to other communities. She
expressed that the decreases were not surprising given that context.
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Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 26-236 approving
draft annual action plan projects.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
PLANNING DIVISION WORKPLAN: Planning and Housing Director Kelly Diekmann
presented an overview of the current and anticipated workload Planning Division, seeking
Council direction on priorities for the next six months. Director Diekmann noted that it had
been nearly two years since the City Council formally addressed the work plan, and that
the previous goal of beginning a Zoning Ordinance update had been deferred due to the
volume of development projects requiring staff attention.
Director Diekmann outlined five large projects as the most significant planning initiatives,
noting that the division was unlikely to begin any major new initiative before July given
ongoing development work:
1. Downtown Multi-Modal Parking Structure Planning Grant
2. Unified Development Code (UDC) Project
3. Old Town Historic District Outreach Project
4. Affordable Housing Demographic Analysis Project
5. Downtown Housing Project North of 6th Street
Director Diekmann also identified several smaller staff-initiated text amendments,
including a data center use definition, accessory dwelling unit standard updates required
by changes to state legislation, double-pane window and infill opening standards for the
historic district overlay, and guidance on exterior supply lines for mini-split heat pumps and
radon mitigation systems.
Mayor Haila opened the Public Input.
Max Porter encouraged the City Council to eliminate the Ontario Workforce Housing
Subdivision from the Planning Division Work Plan, highlighting his opposition to the project
and emphasizing traffic concerns.
Mayor Haila closed the Public Input when no one else came forward to speak.
The City Council discussed each work plan activity in depth. The Affordable Housing
Demographic Analysis Project was listed as Priority #4. Director Diekmann and the City
Council Members agreed that existing housing studies and community needs
assessments provided sufficient data and that this project was not an immediate need.
Director Diekmann offered to resend a prior report on the topic.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to remove Priority #4: Affordable Housing
Demographic Analysis from the Planning Division Work Plan.
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Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Rollins, to request Planning staff forward the
report relating to housing analysis that was completed two years prior to the City Council
for consideration.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Director Diekmann highlighted the preference of staff to maintain the Downtown Multi -
Modal Parking Structure Planning Grant as a top priority, noting that the City was recently
awarded a $500,000 federal planning grant for the parking structure feasibility study. The
study would include public engagement, a downtown parking demand analysis, financial
feasibility modeling, and conceptual design with cost estimates. Director Diekmann
clarified this was a feasibility grant, not a construction grant . He also noted that a formal
start date was unlikely before the fall due to required grant agreement execution and a
Request for Proposal (RFP) process to hire a consultant.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Gartin, to maintain the Downtown Parking Structure
Planning Grant Project as Priority #1 and direct Planning staff to commence work on that
project as soon as it is feasible.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Another project facing unique time restrictions was the Downtown Housing Project North
of 6th Street, proposed by Luke Jensen earlier in the meeting. Director Diekmann noted
that the project would require zoning changes that could affect multiple properties in the
area, meaning it was broader than a single-property issue and would involve public
engagement with Old Town stakeholders. Council Member Betcher expressed hesitation
about prioritizing a project the City Council had not yet formally reviewed, while other
Council Members emphasized that the vote was on a concept that prioritized downtown
housing intensification rather than approving a specific project. The City Council Members
acknowledged the tight due diligence timeline for the project balanced with the need for
housing downtown.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Corrieri, to relocate the Downtown Housing
Project North of 6th Street to Priority #2.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The Unified Development Code (UDC) Project was described by Director Diekmann as
the single most important long-term planning initiative the City can undertake to implement
Ames Plan 2040. He cautioned that once started, the project must be sustained
continuously, with an anticipated timeline of approximately 16 months for completion . He
noted that updated zoning standards would resolve many recurring development
questions and establish clear zoning districts for areas such as the Lincoln Way Urban
Corridor.
Moved by Junck, seconded by Corrieri, to relocate the Unified Development Code (UDC)
Project to Priority #3.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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The City Council had previously voted in February to consider a Zoning Text Amendment
and neighborhood meeting related to the Old Town Historic District. Discussion centered
on the scope and timing of such an effort and Council Member Betcher expressed concern
about holding a single informational meeting without a defined follow -up process, noting
that neighborhood participants might expect action sooner than staff capacity would allow.
Council Member Gartin urged the other City Council Members to assess conditions in Old
Town and consider whether the historic overlay district has a chieved its goals or whether
restrictions have contributed to decline in some areas before tackling the priority.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to table the priority related to the Old
Town Historic District Outreach Project, until scope and timeline are established for the
top three priorities.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Mayor Haila inquired about smaller projects without specified timelines. Director Diekmann
reviewed the smaller items identified by staff such as a data center use definition and
updates to accessory dwelling unit standards. He noted that the items were necessary to
complete in a timely manner and recommended against sweeping them into the UDC
Project.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Junck, to direct Planning staff to define data
centers within the Municipal Code and clarify standards for accessory dwelling units
(ADUs) as staff time allows.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Council Member Corrieri wondered if the same timeliness was needed to address changes
to Chapter 31. Director Diekmann replied in the affirmative, highlighting emerging issues
for exterior supply lines for mini-split heat pumps and radon mitigation systems with four
active cases in the last 60 days.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to direct Planning staff to initiate text
amendments to Chapter 31 of the Municipal Code outside of the Unified Development
Code (UDC) Project to address double pane windows, infill of openings, heat pump mini-
splits, and radon mitigation equipment with new guidelines for exterior alterations.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
WATER AND SEWER RATE ADJUSTMENTS: Director of Water and Pollution Control
John Dunn presented the annual rate analysis. He highlighted that Ames now sat at
approximately the 15th percentile for water rates statewide and the 19th percentile for sewer
rates, reflecting the history of proactive infrastructure investment by the City and
disciplined long-term financial planning. He credited the construction of the current water
treatment plant as a durable, 100-year facility that has helped hold rates down relative to
peers.
The 10-year fund balance model for both the Water Fund and Sewer Fund was then
reviewed by Director Dunn. The models projected that without rate adjustments, both
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funds would face significant deficits in the latter half of the 10-year window. The rate model
proposed incorporated a 3.5% annual inflation assumption, making the proposed 3.5%
water rate increase an inflation-neutral adjustment. The sewer fund increase of 5.5% was
modestly above inflation, driven by the ongoing costs of the Nutrient Reduction Project at
the Water Pollution Control Facility, a capital investment of approximately $60 million
required by evolving regulatory standards. Director Dunn noted that both his internal model
and an independent model prepared by Finance staff projected the same rate trajectory
as the prior year, confirming the City remained on track.
Director Dunn followed with presentation of a sample customer bill. The combined impact
on a typical residential customer using 600 cubic feet of water and 600 kilowatt -hours of
electricity per month would be approximately a 3.8% increase in their combined utility bill
when including a planned 1.5% electric rate increase.
Council Member Gartin commended Director Dunn and his team, noting the achievement
reflected the long-term fiscal planning of City staff and leadership. He inquired about the
introduction of a large commercial user to the system and the anticipated impact. Director
Dunn shared that if a customer of the type was brought online, it would be a policy decision
made on a case-by-case basis by the City Council on how the necessary capacity
improvements would be funded.
Director Dunn shared that with the support of the City Council, the proposed ordinance
would be scheduled for first reading at the meeting on April 28th with adoption following in
May. Thus, it was the recommendation of staff to make rates effective for bills due on or
after July 1, 2026, ensuring customers were aware of higher rates before incurring
charges.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Gartin, to direct staff to prepare an ordinance to increase
water rates by 3.5% and sewer rates by 5.5% for bills due on or after July 1, 2026.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE REZONING AND MASTER PLAN AMENDMENT
FOR 4605 AND 4510 HYDE AND ADJACENT PROPERTIES TO THE NORTH
(AUBURN TRAIL DEVELOPMENT): Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to pass on
second reading an ordinance rezoning and master plan amendment for 4605 and 4510
Hyde and Adjacent Properties to the North (Auburn Trail Development).
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
SECOND READING OF ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT CREATING A NEW ZONING
OVERLAY DISTRICT (WEST UNIVERSITY PEDESTRIAN ENHANCEMENT DISTRICT)
RELATED TO DENSITY, PARKING, AND DESIGN REQUIREMENTS TO BE APPLIED
BETWEEN SHELDON AND HYLAND AND LINCOLN WAY AND OAKLAND: Moved by
Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Corrieri, to pass on second reading an ordinance related to
a zoning text amendment creating a new zoning overlay district (West University
Pedestrian Enhancement District) related to Density, Parking, and Design Requirement s
to be applied between Sheldon and Hyland and Lincoln Way and Oakland.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
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THIRD READING AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 4590 REZONING OF
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1323 NORTHWESTERN AVENUE FROM RESIDENTIAL
LOW DENSITY (RL) TO GOVERNMENT/AIRPORT DISTRICT (S-GA) WITH A MASTER
PLAN: Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 26-
237 approving the Master Plan and Rezoning Agreement at 1323 Northwestern Avenue.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to pass on third reading ORDINANCE NO. 4590
rezoning of property located at 1323 Northwestern Avenue from Residential Low Density
(RL) to Government/Airport District (S-GA) with a Master Plan.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
THIRD READING AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 4591 REVISING MUNICIPAL
CODE CHAPTERS 10, 17, 21, 22, 27 RELATING TO LICENSES AND PERMITS
ISSUED BY THE OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK: Moved by Rollins, seconded by Corrieri,
to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 26-238 adopting amended Appendix D.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and
hereby made a portion of these Minutes.
Moved by Rollins, seconded by Corrieri, to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE
NO. 4591 revising Municipal Code Chapters 10, 17, 21, 22, 27 relating to licenses and
permits issued by the Office of the City Clerk.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
THIRD READING AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 4592 TO AMEND THE
MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF AMES, IOWA BY ENACTING A NEW SECTION
24.21 THEREOF, FOR THE PURPOSE OF CREATING TAX INCREMENT FINANCING
DISTRICT WITHIN THE DOWNTOWN REINVESTMENT DISTRICT URBAN RENEWAL
AREA: Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to pass on third reading and adopt
ORDINANCE NO. 4592 to amend the Municipal Code of the City of Ames, Iowa by
enacting a new Section 24.21 thereof, for the purpose of creating Tax Increment Financing
District within the Downtown Reinvestment District Urban Renewal Area.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
DISPOSITION OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: Mayor Haila noted that there were
nine items for consideration. The first item was a letter from Travis Small, Real Estate
Development Manager for KwikStar, requesting an amendment to the current
Convenience General Services (CGS) Zone Development Standards, regarding the
maximum size of gasoline service.
Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to request a memo from staff.
Vote on Motion: 5-1, Beatty-Hansen dissenting. Motion declared carried.
A request from Aaron Rodriguez proposing parking restrictions for circles within cul-de-
sacs to ensure safety was the second item.
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Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to request a memo from staff.
Vote on Motion: 5-1, Corrieri dissenting. Motion declared carried.
The third item was a letter from Jeri Neal on behalf of the Ames Climate Action Team
Energy Working Group encouraging the City Council to commit to a solar array at the
James Herman Banning Ames Municipal Airport. City Manager Schainker noted that no
action was needed as the topic would be addressed at the City Council Workshop the
following week.
A request from Kirk Youngberg on behalf of Ames Silversmithing regarding zoning issues
related to the expansion of its storefront on Main Street was the next item.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to request a memo from staff.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
A memo from City Attorney Mark Lambert was considered as the fifth item, which Mayor
Haila noted was under advisement.
The sixth item was from Rhonda Frerichs concerning the Ontario Workforce Housing
Subdivision. City Manager Schainker noted that the item had been discussed during the
Planning Division Workplan and no action was needed.
A request from Chuck Winkleblack and Justin Dodge of Hunziker Companies to amend
Ames Plan 2040 to allow housing development on a 35-acre plat of land west of the Ames
Country Club was the seventh item.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to request a memo from staff.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
The eighth item was a request from Luke Jensen of RES Development, Inc., proposing
residential development in Downtown Ames.
Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Rollins, to request a memo from staff.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
A memo from Director Diekmann concerning the request from Steve Bur gason of Ansley
Development to amend the development agreement incentive for the subdivision was the
final item for consideration.
Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to place the item on a future agenda.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
REPORT OF GOVERNING BODY: The Members of the City Council and Mayor shared
that there were no new reports and highlighted the upcoming meeting dates for each of
their respective boards.
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COUNCIL COMMENTS: Council Member Beatty-Hansen acknowledged the Public Forum
comment from the individual experiencing homelessness and directed community
members experiencing the same to the Homelessness Outreach Services Team (HOST),
noting the team was available at Romero House on Thursdays and at the Ames Public
Library throughout the week.
Council Member Gartin commented that the meeting advanced numerous projects
signaling that Ames was positioned to produce housing. He also congratulated the
organizers of the Luke Combs concert, which drew approximately 60,000 attendees to the
community, benefiting local hotels and restaurants.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Gartin, seconded by Betcher, to adjourn the meeting at 8:29
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