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HomeMy WebLinkAboutA001 - September 22, 2026, Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council Extended Minutes1 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL AMES, IOWA SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 The Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor John Haila at 6:02 p.m. on the 22nd day of September, 2026, in the City Council Chambers in City Hall, 515 Clark Avenue, pursuant to law. Present were Council Members Gloria Betcher, Amber Corrieri, Tim Gartin, Rachel Junck, and Anita Rollins. Ex officio Trey Anderson was also present. Council Member Brownyn Beatty-Hansen joined the meeting electronically. PROCLAMATION FOR "AMES TOWN AND COUNTRY KIWANIS CLUB'S 60TH YEAR", SEPTEMBER 26, 2026: September 26, 2026, was proclaimed "Ames Town and Country Kiwanis Club's 60th Year" by Mayor Haila. The proclamation highlighted that the Club had remained dedicated to the Kiwanis mission of improving the lives of children, strengthening families, and building a better community. It also recognized the Club’s longstanding support of youth leadership programs, including the Ames Mi ddle School Builders Club, the Ames High Key Club, and the Ames Cyclone Country Action Club. Kiwanis Club President Marilyn Johnson and Vice President Marion Kresse accepted the proclamation and extended an invitation to the 60th anniversary celebration at Green Hills later that evening. PROCLAMATION FOR "MESOTHELIOMA AWARENESS DAY", SEPTEMBER 26, 2026: Mayor Haila proclaimed September 26, 2026, as "Mesothelioma Awareness Day.” The proclamation recognized mesothelioma as an aggressive, incurable cancer most often linked to asbestos exposure and noted the widespread historical use of asbestos in industry, military applications, and older buildings and homes. Lisa Kuehl, alongside Steve O'Brien, Carrol and Laurie McCracken, and Jennifer Schwartz, accepted the proclamation on behalf of Iowa families affected by mesothelioma. Ms. Kuehl shared that her late husband, Connie Rex Younger, died of pleural mesothelioma in 2016 . She emphasized that symptoms may not appear for 40 years or more after exposure, making diagnosis difficult, and urged Iowans to understand their possible exposure history, recognize symptoms, and consult healthcare professionals. PROCLAMATION FOR "FIRE PREVENTION WEEK," OCTOBER 4-10, 2026: Mayor Haila proclaimed October 4-10, 2026, as "Fire Prevention Week." The proclamation highlighted the fire risks associated with rechargeable lithium -ion batteries used in common household and personal devices and emphasized the importance of safe charging practices. Fire Inspector Jason Ziph accepted the proclamation alongside department staff. He thanked the City Council for the proclamation and provided related safety guidance. He cautioned that lithium-ion batteries can overheat, ignite, or explode if damaged, defective, or improperly used. He advised the public to use m anufacturer- approved chargers, charge devices on hard surfaces, watch for warning signs such as heat, swelling, or unusual sounds, and properly recycle batteries rather than placing them in the trash or standard recycling. He also announced the Fire Department Open House on Saturday, October 10, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to noon. 2 Council Member Rollins exited the meeting. CONSENT AGENDA: Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to approve the Consent Agenda. 4. Motion approving payment of claims 5. Motion approving Report of Change Orders for period of September 1-15, 2026 6. Motion approving Summary of Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting on September 8, 2026, and Special City Council Meeting on September 14, 2026 7. Motion approving Ownership Update for Class E Retail Alcohol Licenses - Casey's Locations: a. Casey's #4315, 3218 Orion Drive b. Casey's #4314, 1118 South Duff Avenue c. Casey's General Store #2905, 3612 Stange Road d. Casey's #4472, 3406 Lincoln Way e. Casey's General Store #2298, 428 Lincoln Way f. Casey's General Store #2560, 3020 South Duff Avenue 8. Motion approving Ownership Update for Class E Retail Alcohol Licenses - Maverik Locations: a. Maverik #5365, 2801 E 13th Street b. Maverik #5119, 2108 Isaac Newton Drive c. Maverik #5118, 4510 Mortensen Road d. Maverik #5028, 203 Welch Avenue e. Maverik #5299, 4506 Lincoln Way 9. Motion approving new Class C Retail Alcohol License - Flame N Skewer, 823 Wheeler Street Ste 5 10. Motion approving new Class C Retail Alcohol License - Inside Golf LLC, 2801 Grand Avenue Ste 1075 11. Motion approving new Special Class C Retail Alcohol License (BW) - The Spice Thai Cuisine, 402 Main Street 12. Motion approving new 5-Day (September 29-October 3, 2026) Class C Retail Alcohol License with Outdoor Service - Schonert's Patisserie LLC, 813 Bissell Road 13. Motion approving the renewal of the following Alcohol Licenses: a. Aldi Inc 48, 108 South 5th Street, Class B Retail Alcohol License b. Boulder Tap House, 114 South Duff Avenue, Class C Retail Alcohol License c. Flip'N Jacks Pancake House & Eatery, 1520 South Dayton Place, Class C Retail Alcohol License d. Hy-Vee Food & Drugstore 2, 640 Lincoln Way, Class E Retail Alcohol License e. Hy-Vee Food Store 1, 3800 W Lincoln Way, Class E Retail Alcohol License f. Sips and Paddy's Irish Pub, 126 Welch Avenue, Class C Retail Alcohol License with Outdoor Service, Pending Dramshop Review 14. Motion to suspend certain Civil Service Requirements for the Police Department 15. RESOLUTION NO. 26-580 appointing Shenglan Zhang to serve on Public Art Commission 16. RESOLUTION NO. 26-581 approving and adopting Supplement No. 2026-4 to the 3 Municipal Code 17. Request from Ames United Church of Christ for Theologian in Residence Program: a. RESOLUTION NO. 26-582 approving waiver of parking enforcement in Lot Q from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 17, 2026, and requiring reimbursement for lost parking meter revenue 18. RESOLUTION NO. 26-583 setting date for the sale of Electric Revenue Bonds, Series 2026D, and authorizing the use of a preliminary official statement in connection therewith 19. RESOLUTION NO. 26-584 amending FY 2026/27 outside funding request contract with The Ames Foundation for Campustown activities 20. RESOLUTION NO. 26-585 accepting Dedication of Right-of-Way for 1717 E. Lincoln Way with a Plat of Survey 21. RESOLUTION NO. 26-567 approving preliminary plans and specifications for the Technical Services Complex HVAC Improvements Project setting October 28, 2026, as bid due date and November 10, 2026, as date of public hearing (tabled from September 8, 2026) 22. RESOLUTION NO. 26-587 approving Memorandum of Understanding with Story County to apply for grant funding under the 2026 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 23. RESOLUTION NO. 26-588 approving contract renewal with GHD Services Inc., of Niagara Falls, NY, for Regulatory Compliance Monitoring at the Ash Pond in an amount not-to-exceed $54,300 24. RESOLUTION NO. 26-589 approving Iowa DOT Funding Agreement for Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) funding for the 2025/26 Shared Use Path System Expansion - South Dayton Avenue 25. RESOLUTION NO. 26-590 approving Iowa DOT State Grant for FY 2026/27 Airport Facility Improvements (Fuel Farm Replacement - AvGas Tank) 26. Contracts for the miscellaneous supply purchase for Electric Services' scheduled projects: a. RESOLUTION NO. 26-591 awarding contract to Fletcher Reinhardt Company, of Cedar Rapids, IA, in an amount not-to-exceed $24,162.63, inclusive of all applicable sales taxes b. RESOLUTION NO. 26-592 awarding contract to Rural Electric Supply Company (RESCO), of Ankeny, IA, in an amount not-to-exceed $4,235.06, inclusive of all applicable sales taxes c. RESOLUTION NO. 26-593 awarding contract to Power Line Supply, of Williamsburg, IA, in an amount not-to-exceed $28,533.48, inclusive of all applicable sales taxes d. RESOLUTION NO. 26-594 awarding contract to Echo Electric Supply Company, of Ames, IA, in an amount not-to-exceed $1,166.30, inclusive of all applicable sales taxes 27. RESOLUTION NO. 26-595 awarding contract to Electric Engineering Co., of Des Moines, IA, for the Access Control Upgrades at the Power Plant, in the amount of $48,747.22 4 28. RESOLUTION NO. 26-596 awarding contract to Dewey Ford of Ankeny, IA, for five (5) Small Gas-Electric Hybrid Pickup Trucks for the Fleet Services Department in the amount of $159,662 29. RESOLUTION NO. 26-597 awarding contract to Stivers Ford Lincoln, of Waukee, IA, for two (2) Ford Police Interceptor Utility Hybrids for the Fleet Services Department in the amount of $86,824 30. Reciprocating Internal Combustion Engines for Ames Municipal Energy Center: a. RESOLUTION NO. 26-598 approving Change Order No. 1 to Wärtsilä North America, Inc., of Houston, TX, for the refund of tax to the City, in the amount of $1,227,233.28 b. RESOLUTION NO. 26-599 approving Change Order No. 2 to Wärtsilä North America, Inc., of Houston, TX, for the deduction of 7% sales tax from the total contract amount 31. RESOLUTION NO. 26-600 accepting 2020/21 & 2021/22 Intelligent Transportation System Program (Phases 1 and 2) as completed by Van Maanen Electric, Inc., of Newton, IA, in the amount of $3,586,282.00 32. RESOLUTION NO. 26-601 accepting completion of landscaping requirement at The Catalyst, 1800 Collaboration Place, and releasing financial security in full 33. RESOLUTION NO. 26-602 approving Plat of Survey (Boundary Line Adjustment) for 259 and 263 Hyland Avenue Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motions/Resolutions declared carried/adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes. PUBLIC FORUM: Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Forum when no one came forward to speak. HEARING ON REZONING OF PROPERTY AT ONTARIO STREET & SCHOLL ROAD FROM SPECIAL PURPOSE GOVERNMENT/AIRPORT DISTRICT (S-GA) TO FLOATING SUBURBAN RESIDENTIAL LOW DENSITY (FS-RL) WITH PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (PUD) OVERLAY AND MASTER PLAN: Planning and Housing Director Kelly Diekmann introduced the rezoning request for the former Iowa State University (ISU) property south of the Union Pacific rail line at Ontario Street and Scholl Road. Planner Benjamin Campbell reported that the 17.4-acre site could be considered for residential development under Ames Plan 2040 without a future land use map amendment because the proposal was consistent with the RN-3 (Residential Neighborhood) residential expansion designation. The requested zoning was Floating Suburban Residential Low Density with a Planned Unit Development overlay. He explained that Scholl Road, which had been privately owned and maintained by ISU, would be dedicated as public right-of-way and reconstructed to City standards up to the railroad quiet zone divider, while land and roadway north of the tracks would remain under ISU control. Council Member Rollins returned to the meeting. Planner Campbell explained that the proposal was divided into two parts. The east side included 26 single-family lots with requested deviations for reduced lot width and side 5 setbacks, while the west side included 71 attached townhome units in duplex, triplex, and quadplex configurations. A stormwater detention pond was planned for the northeast corner of the west side, with a shared-use path connecting to the existing 10-foot mixed-use path on Ontario Road. Under the proposed plans, the overall density of the development remained below the zoning maximum. Council Member Gartin discussed questions regarding the extent of Scholl Road improvements, notice requirements, traffic impacts, stormwater management, and prior environmental remediation in the area. Planner Campbell stated that mailed notice had been provided to property owners within 400 feet, with additional posted signs on the site, and noted that the railroad right-of-way limited how many nearby properties fell within the notice area to the north. Regarding traffic, Director Diekmann explained that a formal traffic study had not originally been required because the project did not meet the City threshold for peak-hour trips, but a detailed traffic memo had since been prepared using 2025 radar data collected while school was in session. Staff reported that the Minnesota Avenue intersection was projected to operate at level of service C, which met the City’s performance standard. Transportation Planner Kyle Thompson further explained that level of service measured average delay and that the projected development traffic was estimated at approximately 64 PM peak-hour trips, with about 70 percent expected to travel east on Ontario Road and 30 percent west. Director Diekmann also stated that stormwater requirements would be addressed in greater detail at the preliminary plat stage and that the developer had already demonstrated compliance with City standards. In response to concerns about prior radioactive remediation from Council Member Rollins, Director Diekmann stated that earlier remediation activities had occurred about 2,000 feet north of the site, that no active monitoring remained, and that there was no known relationship between that work and the proposed development site. The Public Hearing was opened by Mayor Haila. Justin Dodge, Hunziker Companies (East Side Development), reported that ISU had confirmed that the PVC pipes observed on the property were associated with soil density and root structure research rather than environmental monitoring wells. He also requested consideration of an additional deviation related to the distance between the front door and the garage, explaining that a 19-foot arrangement instead of 12 feet would help reduce finished square footage and support lower price points on the narrower lots . He stated that this approach was intended to help maintain affordability and was similar to housing products previously constructed in Sunset Ridge 9th Addition. Luke Jensen, RES Development (West Side Development), stated that the proposal included 71 attached townhome units in a mix of duplexes, triplexes, and quadplexes. He emphasized that the development team had been intentional about producing affordable new construction housing, which he said was lacking in the community. He stated that the site was well suited to this type of housing and that the Ames Plan 2040 had anticipated private residential redevelopment of the property. He further noted that this 6 portion of the project was not as far along in the review process as the east side and would return later with additional detail. Mr. Jensen also encouraged broader discussion of PUD design standards, including setbacks and garage and door relationships, a nd confirmed that the planned path around the stormwater pond would ultimately connect into the existing trail system along Ontario Road. Max Porter stated his opinion that 97 units represented excessive density for the site and said he would have preferred single-family development. He questioned whether the 400- foot notice radius adequately reached affected neighbors given the intervening railroad right-of-way. He also raised concerns regarding neighborhood egress, stormwater standards, and the need for an origin-destination traffic study focused on access via Minnesota Avenue and Scholl Road. Royce Quinn expressed concern about the traffic impacts of adding 97 units, particularly in light of expected vehicle volumes and the nearby presence of Abby Sawyer Elementary School. She asked whether a formal traffic study should be required before approval. She also questioned whether the proposed duplexes, triplexes, and quadplexes were compatible with the surrounding predominantly single-family neighborhood and asked how many of the units would be owner-occupied versus rental. Russell Frerichs reiterated concerns about both density and traffic impacts. He stated that turning left from Minnesota Avenue onto Ontario Road was already difficult and at times involved substantial delays. He urged the City Council to defer action until a broader study of Ontario Road could be completed and encouraged a more proactive planning approach. Susan Tucker questioned whether the traffic data being relied upon was sufficiently current, noting her understanding that some earlier data discussed at the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting had been several years old. She stated that left turns from Minnesota Avenue onto Ontario Road were already challenging and said additional traffic would worsen conditions. She also expressed interest in knowing the anticipated mix of owner-occupied and rental units. The Public Hearing was closed by Mayor Haila when no one else came forward to speak. Mayor Haila then asked staff to respond to the concerns of the residents. Director Diekmann confirmed that the 2025 traffic data superseded older count data, explained again how the notice radius was calculated, stated that the City must follow state stormwater requirements, and noted that origin-destination analysis had been incorporated into the traffic review. Director Diekmann further stated that the City Council could require additional traffic analysis if it chose to do so and Transportation Planner Thompson highlighted that a broader Ontario corridor study could be pursued in the future through Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) planning or local funding. On compatibility, Director Diekmann stated that although four-unit attached buildings did not currently exist along that stretch of Ontario, the proposal was considered context-sensitive based on setbacks, scale, spacing, and orientation. He also explained that no ownership mix could be required under normal zoning, but that a 7 future development agreement tied to requested City incentives would return to the City Council and could address matters such as workforce housing, owner occupancy, and rental limitations. Council Member Gartin said he appreciated the extensive Planning and Zoning Commission review and recognized the concerns raised by the neighborhood but concluded that the site was appropriate for infill housing under Ames Plan 2040 and that the project would support community growth and the tax base. Council Member Betcher stated that the updated traffic memo had addressed many of her concerns and thanked residents for their participation. The City Council also discussed the practical effect of the existing front-entry standard on narrower lots, and staff confirmed that this issue could be brought back later as a text amendment without delaying action on the rezoning. Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to pass on first reading an ordinance rezoning property at Ontario Street & Scholl Road from Special Purpose Government/Airport District (S-GA) to Floating Suburban Residential Low Density (FS-RL) with Planned Unit Development (PUD) Overlay and Master Plan. Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to place a discussion of PUD compatibility standards for front entries on a future agenda. Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. HEARING ON PROPOSED ORDINANCE TO ESTABLISH A SOCIAL DISTRICT (SIP & STROLL): Assistant City Manager Brian Phillips, alongside Police Chief Geoff Huff and Director Diekmann, presented the proposed ordinance establishing a Social District, commonly referred to as the “Sip & Stroll,” pursuant to newly enacted Iowa legislation authorizing designated areas in which alcoholic beverages may be carried between participating establishments and consumed within approved public spaces. Assistant City Manager Phillips reported that, at the previous meeting, the City Council had directed staff to prepare the ordinance and district map. Director Diekmann advised that the Planning and Zoning Commission had reviewed the proposal and recommended approval on a 5–1 vote, while also encouraging the City Council to consider reasonable limitations and safeguards regarding the scale, frequency, and character of events activating the district. Assistant City Manager Phillips explained that, following review by the Planning and Zoning Commission, staff had made two revisions to the draft ordinance. First, the ordinance had been revised so that Ames Main Street was required to be consulted regarding an application to activate the Social District, but a formal recommendation from Ames Main Street was no longer a prerequisite to City Council consideration. Second, the ordinance had been revised to allow the City Council, on its own initiative, to activate the Social District for a City-sponsored event without requiring an outside application. He further noted that Ames Main Street wished to utilize the district for the Witches Walk event on October 8, 2026, and that same-evening adoption of the ordinance would be necessary in order to accommodate that request. 8 Council Member Betcher raised a legal question concerning whether the railroad right-of- way could properly be included within the district boundaries. Interim City Attorney Jane Chang advised that her office had not yet completed a review of the relevant easement documents and therefore had not reached a final legal conclusion regarding that portion of the map. In response to questions from Council Member Gartin, she indicated that the more prudent course would be to remove the portion of the proposed district located south of the railroad tracks at this time and, if later supported by legal review, consider expansion in the future. Assistant City Manager Phillips added that the southern portion had been included primarily so that an establishment in that area could participate. It was also clarified that Iowa law would not allow patrons to carry beverages across the railroad tracks between separated portions of a district. Mayor Haila opened the Public Hearing. Greg Piklapp, Ames Regional Economic Alliance Director of Economic Development and Business Advocacy, spoke in support of the Social District, citing its potential to increase events and revenue. Mayor Haila closed the Public Hearing when no one else came forward to speak. Council Member Betcher highlighted that the most straightforward approach would be to proceed with the ordinance after removing the portion of the district south of the railroad tracks. Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to amend the Social District map to remove the section south of the railroad tracks. Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. Council Member Betcher further observed that the Witches Walk event would provide a useful initial opportunity to evaluate how the Social District functioned in practice. Council Member Gartin agreed and noted particular interest in how district boundaries would be managed in relation to nearby properties and public areas. Chief Huff indicated that Ames Main Street had been advised to hire a police officer for the initial events to assist with boundary enforcement and to help prevent alcohol from being carried outside the authorized area or brought in from outside sources. Mayor Haila confirmed with staff that because the map amendment affected only Exhibit A, no further revisions to the ordinance text were necessary. Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to direct Legal Department staff to review the legal right of the City to extend the Social District zone south of the railroad tracks. Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to pass on first reading an ordinance to establish a Social District (Sip & Stroll). Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. 9 Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Junck, to suspend the rules and allow for second and third reading. Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to pass on second reading an ordinance to establish a Social District (Sip & Stroll). Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO. 4605 establishing a Social District (Sip & Stroll). Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. HEARING ON REZONING PROPERTY AT 259 AND 263 HYLAND AVENUE FROM RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY (RH) WITH WEST UNIVERSITY IMPACTED DISTRICT OVERLAY (O-UIW) TO RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY (RH) WITH WEST UNIVERSITY PEDESTRIAN ENHANCEMENT DISTRICT OVERLAY (O-WUPED) WITH A MAJOR SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN: Director Diekmann presented the rezoning and Major Site Development Plan request for 259 and 263 Hyland Avenue, noting that the proposal was the first to come before the City Council under the newly established West University Pedestrian Enhancement District Overlay. He explained that the overlay had been created to encourage appropriately scaled intensification and improved streetscape conditions in the area west of campus, while also allowing reduced parking requirements and a bedroom-based density calculation intended to support smaller residential units. The site was described by Director Diekmann as a corner property at Hyland Avenue and Oakland Avenue consisting of two parcels: one containing an occupied apartment building and the other containing a vacant older house. He noted that the project had originally been conceived as a single-building development on a combined site, but had since evolved into a two-building, two-lot proposal. Director Diekmann then reviewed the proposal by building. Building A, located on the south portion of the site, was described as a three-story structure with ground-floor parking, one ground-level dwelling unit, and stair access at both the front and rear. He explained that the principal zoning issue for Building A involved the front setback along Hyland Avenue. Although the code required a 25-foot setback and allowed a reduction to 20 feet through the alternative design provision, the submitted plan showed a 15-foot setback. It was concluded by staff that the additional reduction could not be approved through the site development plan process alone. Accordingly, Director Diekmann highlighted that staff recommended that the building be shifted five feet to the rear so that it would comply with the 20-foot front setback, with the understanding that such a shift would require a variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment for the rear setback. He stated that staff supported that variance request in light of the development history of the site and the fact 10 that, under the earlier combined-site concept, the setback situation would have been different. He also noted that an electric utility easement in the rear yard had complicated the design and required additional coordination during project review. With respect to Building A’s architecture, Director Diekmann stated that staff found the design generally consistent with the overlay district’s intent. He explained that the smaller width of the building did not warrant substantial façade articulation and that the submitted design included variation in parapet height and projecting window elements sufficient to satisfy the relevant design principles. Director Diekmann next addressed Building B, located on the north portion of the site at the corner of Hyland and Oakland. He stated that two design issues had been identified during staff review. The first concerned façade articulation on the longer Hylan d-facing elevation. He shared that staff and the Planning and Zoning Commission ultimately supported approval without requiring a more pronounced building break, concluding that the submitted design, together with its material variation and other detailing , was acceptable. The second issue involved the building’s primary entrance, which was architecturally oriented toward Oakland Avenue rather than Hyland Avenue. Because the overlay district emphasized strong pedestrian design and corner-building orientation, staff had recommended a condition requiring revisions to improve the relationship of that entrance to the Hyland frontage. The Planning and Zoning Commission had also supported that condition. The Public Input was opened by Mayor Haila. Chuck Winkleblack, Hunziker Companies, reported that the site’s approximately 40-foot grade change between Oakland Avenue and Hyland Avenue had shaped many of the design constraints of the project. He indicated support for the variance approach applicable to Building A. However, he did not support the proposed condition related to the entrance treatment for Building B, explaining that additional architectural emphasis at the Oakland corner could create confusion by directing visitors toward the entrance of a single unit rather than the primary stair tower. The Public Input was closed by Mayor Haila when no one else came forward to speak. Council Member Betcher asked about the proposed entrance treatment for Building B and expressed concern that additional wraparound architectural emphasis at the corner could mislead pedestrians regarding the correct point of entry. Director Diekmann acknowledged that concern and stated that any revised treatment would need to clearly distinguish the principal building entrance from the individual unit entrance. Moved by Gartin, seconded by Corrieri, to approve Alternative No. 1, with conditions (a) through (d): • Pass on first reading an ordinance rezoning property at 259 and 263 Hyland Avenue from Residential High Density (RH) with West University Impacted District Overlay (O-UIW) to Residential High Density (RH) with West University 11 Pedestrian Enhancement District Overlay (O-WUPED) with a Major Site Development Plan. • Adopt RESOLUTION NO. 26-603 approving the proposed Major Site Development Plan with the following conditions: a. Provide an outdoor lighting plan prior to issuance of a building permit. b. Provide a roof plan with mechanical equipment screening prior to issuance of a building permit. c. Provide material sample/references for clay brick specifications prior to issuance of a building permit. d. Provided an updated site plan reflecting a Front Yard Setback of 20 Feet with approval of a rear yard variance for 259 Hyland prior to issuance of a building permit for 259 Hyland. (If the variance is not approved, the applicant will return to City Council prior to third reading for approval of the project.) e. Require 263 Hyland Building B modifications to the architectural elements of the primary front entrance at the corner to conform to Design Principle 7.a., which would include more emphasis on the corner of the building and wrapping the corner to the Oakland entrance to make it a more significant element of the design. Alternatively, the canopy along Oakland could be extended in length to be more substantial in scale to the building and include tie back rods to the brick or for it to be expanded in size and area as a porch with columns to the ground instead of a cantilevered canopy. Final Design approval will be by the Planning Director or referred to City Council for approval, prior to issuance of a building permit for 263 Hyland. Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion/Resolution declared carried/adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes. Director Diekmann stated that the Zoning Board of Adjustment was scheduled to consider the necessary variance for Building A the following week and that second and likely third readings of the ordinance were anticipated for the October 13, 2026, City Council meeting. HEARING ON AMENDMENT TO THE CITY-WIDE URBAN REVITALIZATION AREA DESIGNATION AND PLAN: Director Diekmann presented the item as a follow-up to the earlier City Council discussion regarding implementation of Senate File 2042. He explained that development coming off tax abatement no longer counted as new growth for purposes of calculating General Fund revenues. In light of that change, staff had recommended ending the single-family tax abatement program one year earlier than previously planned. He stated that the proposed amendment would allow homes for which construction began during calendar year 2026, and which were completed before the end of 2027, to remain eligible for the program. Homes beginning construction on or after January 1, 2027, would no longer qualify. Director Diekmann further explained that the principal distinction between the alternatives concerned North Sunset Ridge. Under Alternative 1, all subdivisions that had received a direct City housing incentive would have been excluded based on the August 1 eligibility cutoff. Under Alternative 2, those subdivisions would likewise have been excluded, but North 12 Sunset Ridge would have remained eligible because it had not received a direct City Council incentive. He noted that a final plat for the next North Sunset Ridge addition was expected to come before the City Council in October and that only a limited number of homes were anticipated to begin construction there this fall. He added that the financial impact of choosing Alternative 2 instead of Alternative 1 was not expected to be substantial. Mayor Haila opened the Public Hearing. Justin Dodge, Hunziker Companies, addressed the Council in support of Alternative 2. He stated that builders were expected to purchase lots in North Sunset Ridge that fall and begin construction on several homes, and he requested that those homes remain eligible for the tax abatement program. Mayor Haila closed the Public Hearing when no one else came forward to speak. Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to approve Alternative No. 2: • Adopt RESOLUTION NO. 26-604 amending the plan eligibility requirements for new construction of ownership housing to transition the program to end one year early and to exclude new construction ownership housing according to the list of ineligible subdivisions in the Council Action Form with modifications to allow homes in the Sunset Ridge North Second and Third Additions that meet all other eligibility requirements, including the amended construction timeline requirements, to qualify for the abatement. • Adopt RESOLUTION NO. 26-605 amending the Urban Revitalization Plan boundaries to include property that has been annexed to the City through September 22, 2026. Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolutions declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes. HEARING ON AN AMENDMENT TO A PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT OVERLAY FOR THE SOUTH LINCOLN SUB-AREA MIXED USE DISTRICT (S-SMD) ZONING DISTRICT MAJOR SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR 322-410 JUNIPER STREET: Planner Justin Moore described a requested amendment to the previously approved PUD and Major Site Development Plan for the Juniper Street townhome project. The amendment would allow decks instead of patios along the south row of townhomes, requiring approval of a reduced setback to 7 feet from the south property line. Staff found the request compatible with the site’s topography and surrounding area. Council Member Gartin commended staff for their collaboration with the applicant. He also inquired about the area to the south of the project. Planner Moore described the property reporting that there was a drop in elevation to the south, several trees, and apartment buildings. 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. 26-606 approving the amendment to the Planned Unit Development (PUD) with Major Site Development 13 Plan at 322-410 Juniper Street to allow for an eight-foot deck encroachment into the rear setback for Lots 9-16 with no other changes to the approved plans and deviations. Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes. HEARING ON FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE FY 2026/27 ADOPTED BUDGET: Director of Finance Corey Goodenow, alongside Budget Manager Nancy Masteller, were present to answer questions. Budget Manager Masteller explained that this was the first amendment to the fiscal year 2026/27 adopted budget, noting that the most significant change was due to the Ames Municipal Energy Center project. The Public Hearing was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to speak. Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 26-607 amending the fiscal year 2026/27 budget to increase expenditures by $149,171,518 for carryover amounts from fiscal year 2025/26 and other significant changes to 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 161 KV TRANSMISSION LINE RECONSTRUCTION - IOWA DOT I- 35 & 290TH STREET PROJECT: Director of Electric Services Donald Kom was present to answer questions. Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Hearing when no one came forward to speak. Moved by Rollins, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 26-608 approving final plans and specifications and awarding contract to Watts Electric Company, of Waverly, NE, in the amount of $753,839.37 . Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes. Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to accept the report of bids. Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. REQUEST FROM AMES MAIN STREET TO ACTIVATE SOCIAL DISTRICT FOR WITCHES WALK ON OCTOBER 8, 2026: Assistant City Manager Phillips and Chief Huff were present to answer questions. Staff was recommending approval of the Social District application for Witches Walk with an amended list of approved alcohol vendors , excluding Time Out, based on the City Council’s previous action removing the section south of the railroad tracks from the Social District map. The Public Hearing was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to speak. 14 Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 26-609 approving the request from Ames Main Street to activate Social District for Witches Walk on October 8, 2026, with the aforementioned amendment to the list of alcohol vendors. Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes. APPOINTMENTS TO DATA CENTER STUDY COMMITTEE: Council Member Betcher reported that of the 54 applicants, 15 had been selected to serve on the Data Center Study Committee. The committee would be required to operate under Iowa Open Meetings Law. She expressed hope that the first meeting of the committee would take place by October 1. Council Members Betcher and Beatty-Hansen and ex officio Anderson would attend the first meeting to assist the committee in establishing a method of operation including electing a chairperson and recording secretary. The committee would then operate independently of the City Council and staff, unless additional assistance was requested. Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Input when no one came forward to speak. Council Member Gartin requested that Council Member Betcher speak briefly on the charge and mandate being given to the committee. Council Member Betcher reviewed that the committee would be following the action plan previously approved by the City Council. She detailed that the committee was not being asked to make recommendations, but rather to consult the relevant data and report back to the City Council with a synopsis of the important details that should be considered. Moved by Rollins, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 26-610 approving appointments to the Data Center Study Committee. Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes. UPDATES TO CHAPTER 28, ELECTRIC RATE MODIFICATIONS: Director Kom was present to answer questions. The Public Hearing was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to speak. Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to direct the City Attorney to draft changes to Chapter 28 of the Municipal Code to implement the increases to the customer service, demand, and energy charges, and return the draft ordinance for consideration by the City Council. Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. ANSLEY DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT FOR CITY PAVING OF A PORTION OF AURORA AVENUE: Director Diekmann was present to answer questions. Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Input when no one came forward to speak. 15 Moved by Corrieri, seconded Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 26-586 approving the Ansley Development Agreement for City Paving of a Portion of Aurora Avenue. Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes. REQUEST FOR A WAIVER OF CITY SUBDIVISION STANDARDS WITHIN TWO MILES OF THE AMES CITY LIMITS IN THE URBAN FRINGE AT 3500 560TH AVENUE: Planner Justin Moore presented a request from the developers to waive subdivision standards at 3500 360th Avenue. The specific request was to allow for five new lots to be created from two existing parcels. Four of the five new lots would be designated as outlots for transfer of ownership between the two parties and future development. One lot would be platted and initially developed with County-approved conditional use for a concrete plant. Planner Moore explained that because this property was within two miles of Ames City limits in the urban fringe, it fell under City subdivision standards. A division with three or more lots would require a preliminary and final plat consistent with City standards of Chapter 23 of the Ames Municipal Code. Any particular subdivision in the urban fringe would require annexation and for City infrastructure standards to be met. The applicant was requesting that the requirements be waived. As far as the future plans for the property, Planner Moore reported that one of the property owners intended to seek a permit with Story County for mineral extraction. Story County had already approved a conditional use permit for a concrete batch plant to be located there as well. Planner Moore also noted that concerns had been raised by Water and Pollution Control (W&PC) staff regarding the future extraction activity due to its proximity to water wells and the aquifer. There were plans to create new wells near this area in the future. Planner Moore described three options for the City Council to consider. The first was to take no action on the landowner’s request. This would mean that the applicant would have to proceed with a preliminary plat and final plat review, subject to meeting City Subdivision standards and infrastructure improvement requirements. The second option was to support the waiver and allow for a final plat to be submitted for City approval for the property. This option would waive the preliminary plat requirements and Ames Plan 2040 Land Use designation policies in order to allow the proposed subdivision within two miles of the City. The third option was to have staff direct the applicant to pursue a boundary line adjustment to reconfigure the boundary lines of the existing properties. This option would only allow for a boundary line adjustment but would not allow for a split and creation of the lot and outlots as proposed in the sketch that was submitted to staff. Boundary line adjustments would not require waivers of Ames Plan 2040 policies as no new lots would be created. This option would allow the landowner to adjust the property lines between both properties to pursue creating areas on the property where they could potentially place the mineral extraction operation and the concrete plant. Council Member Gartin asked if any notice to surrounding property owners would be required. Planner Moore explained that because the property was not within City limits, it 16 fell strictly under county zoning and noticing policies and no notice would need to be issued by the City. He also reported that Story County would ultimately have authority over any future mineral extraction activity that could take place. Mayor Haila inquired as to what was planned to happen with this area in the future under Ames Plan 2040. Planner Moore said it was all considered natural area under the plan. The Public Input was opened by Mayor Haila. Civil Design Advantage Civil Engineer Erin Ollendike and Concrete Technologies Inc. Owner Brad Baumler spoke regarding the request, giving a brief overview of the history of the property. Mr. Baumler explained that a conditional use permit had already been obtained from Story County in order to construct a concrete mixing batch plant. He indicated that the site was planned to be used for mineral extraction in the future. Council Member Betcher asked for more detail on the planned extraction activity. Mr. Baumler explained that his partner had already begun the extraction process on property to the north. Their eventual future plans were to do a land swap and move the concrete batch plant to the other lot and continue the extraction process on his property, to the south of where it was already occurring. He described the mineral extraction as a slow process with shallow mines of less than 60 feet deep. The Public Input was closed by Mayor Haila when no one else came forward to speak. During discussion, City Manager Steve Schainker highlighted that Story County had indicated that the special use permit required for the extraction would be required to have the support of both Ames and Nevada. He shared that W&PC staff planned to go on record opposing extraction in this area. Council Member Gartin requested clarification of the implications of each of the options presented by staff. Planner Moore explained that what the City Council was considering at this time was the request for the subdivision, which required either splitting the lots, a boundary line adjustment, or taking no action. If the City Council allowed for the splitting of the lots it would create a subdivision in an area where it would otherwise not be permitted. This would result in multiple lots that would fall under county rather than City zoning. Council Member Gartin further inquired about Option No. 3, the boundary line adjustment, noting it appeared to have the lowest potential for unintended consequences in the future. Director Diekmann replied in the affirmative, noting that this option was also acceptable to the applicant. Council Member Gartin also emphasized his preference that control over the development of the area be maintained by the City. Director Diekmann explained that the City Council did not have any direct land use control over the area. He detailed that the boundary line adjustment option would allow the applicant to move forward as long as no new lots were created. He also encouraged a future conversation between W&PC staff and the applicant regarding the proximity of the site to the planned wells. He explained 17 that ultimately the Story County Zoning Board of Adjustment would have to approve the permit for the mineral extraction and that this was not related to the decision being made by the City Council this evening. Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to approve Option No. 3: Direct staff to inform the landowner that they can pursue a boundary line adjustment to reconfigure the boundary lines of the existing properties. This option would allow the landowner to adjust the property lines between both properties to pursue creating area on the property that they desire to put a mineral extraction operation on and concrete plant, if it can be done, based on the current property ownership. Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. STAFF REPORT REGARDING OPTIONS FOR A POTENTIAL STUDY OF LINCOLN WAY FROM GRAND AVENUE TO UNIVERSITY BOULEVARD: Public Works Director Justin Clausen presented a report outlining three options for completing a corridor study of Lincoln Way between Grand Avenue and University Boulevard. He explained that the report followed the fatal pedestrian crash at Lincoln Way and South Russell in February and subsequent City Council direction earlier in the year. The options presented were to fund the study immediately using identified savings within the current Capital Improvement Program (CIP), to program the study in a future CIP cycle using local funds, or to defer the study until it could be included in the next MPO update in 2030 to pursue federal planning funds through the MPO. In response to a request from Council Member Gartin for a concise explanation of the purpose of the study, Director Clausen stated that the corridor study would be similar to the one already programmed for the segment between Grand Avenue and Duff Avenue. It would evaluate multimodal use, safety conditions, and potential countermeasures, including analysis of traffic volumes, vehicle speeds, and right-of-way constraints. Director Clausen indicated that the study would produce recommendations for possible future improvements. City Council discussion focused on the need for timely action. Council Member Betcher stated that delaying the study would push the matter too far into the future, particularly in light of the prior pedestrian fatality, and expressed support for moving forward immediately with local funding. Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to approve Option No. 1: Perform the additional study at the same time as the existing Lincoln Way corridor study. Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE ON REZONING 5571 HYDE AVENUE (HAYDEN'S PRESERVE) TO PARTIALLY REZONE THE SITE TO FLOATING SUBURBAN RESIDENTIAL LOW (FS-RL) DENSITY WITH AN AMENDED MASTER PLAN: Moved by Rollins, seconded by Corrieri, to pass on second reading an ordinance rezoning 5571 Hyde Avenue (Hayden's Preserve) to partially rezone the site to Floating Suburban Residential Low (FS-RL) Density with an Amended Master Plan. 18 Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE ON REZONING FOR GREENBRIAR DEVELOPMENT AT 4600 GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER TO FLOATING SUBURBAN RESIDENTIAL LOW (FS-RL) DENSITY WITH MASTER PLAN: Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to pass on second reading an ordinance rezoning Greenbriar Development at 4600 George Washington Carver to Floating Suburban Residential Low (FS-RL) Density with Master Plan. Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. THIRD READING AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 4604 REVISING MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 5 RELATED TO BUILDING CODE: Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO. 4604 revising Building Code Chapter 5. Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. THIRD READING AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 4606 REVISING MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 8 RELATED TO FIRE CODE: Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO. 4606 revising Fire Code Chapter 8. Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. DISPOSITION OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL: Mayor Haila noted that there were 10 items for consideration. The first item was a request for a text amendment to the home occupation regulation for an at home chiropractic business from Katey Koppes. Moved by Junck, seconded by Gartin, to place the item on a future agenda. Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. A request to reduce unnecessary nighttime lighting during spring and fall bird migration, specifically at Jack Trice Stadium from Melissa Martin was the second item. Moved by Junck, seconded by Corrieri, to request that the Mayor forward the communication to contacts at Iowa State University. Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. The third item was a memo on Campustown area property maintenance from Building Official Sara Van Meeteren. Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Betcher, to place the item on a future agenda to discuss proactive enforcement in the Campustown area twice a year to be performed by Inspections staff. Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. A concern regarding anti-bird devices at Kwik Star in West Ames from Erik Charter was the fourth item. 19 Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Betcher, to direct staff to report back to the City Council with the results of the pending investigation of this matter. Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. The fifth item was a request for the City Council to consider an inquiry to staff on information on the vacancy of low-income housing units in Ames from Douglas Pepe. Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to request that the Mayor respond and advise the requestor to contact Central Iowa Regional Housing Authority for information. Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. A request for the City to pay $5,500 towards the $11,000 I & S Group, Inc. compensation for the Ames Event Center from Kevin Bourke was the sixth item. Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Rollins, to place the item on a future agenda. Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. The seventh item was a request for the City Council to address safety gaps in the Ames Rental Code from Jessica Baker. Moved by Junck, seconded by Betcher, to place the item on a future agenda. Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. A memo regarding Lutheran Church of Hope signage from Building Official Sara Van Meeteren was the eighth item. Moved by Rollins, seconded by Gartin, to place the item on a future agenda. Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. The ninth item was a request for City Council direction regarding clarification of the developer agreement amendment on The Bluffs development from Luke Jensen. Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Rollins, to place the item on a future agenda. Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. A memo from Director Clausen regarding flooding in North Ames on July 4, 2026, was the final item. No action was taken on this item. City Manager Steve Schainker noted that Director Claussen would be reaching out to the affected property owners regarding the information. REPORT OF GOVERNING BODY: Council Member Gartin reported that Discover Ames had met during the previous week. The meeting included a presentation on digital marketing efforts and related performance results, as well as discussion of Discover Ames’ role in supporting the proposed event center. Council Member Gartin clarified for the record that he did not participate in the event center discussion due to a conflict of 20 interest. Council Member Junck shared that the Transit Board had discussed fiscal year 2028 budget planning and reviewed the annual Transit Asset Management Plan. COUNCIL COMMENTS: Council Member Beatty-Hansen reported that she had hosted student delegates as part of the Ames International Partner Cities (AIPCA) exchange program and described the experience as a valuable and meaningful opportunity to strengthen relationships between the two communities. Council Member Betcher expressed anticipation for the work of the committee approved earlier in the evening and indicated she would be reaching out to committee members to arrange their first meeting. Ex officio Anderson highlighted that the agenda topics for the upcoming joint meeting with ISU student government would be finalized by the end of the week and noted that a form had been distributed to student government in advance to gather input on agenda items, with the intent of improving efficiency and reducing the length of the meeting. He also expressed appreciation to the many community members who applied for the study committee, highlighting the strong level of interest and engagement and encourag ing all applicants to remain involved in the process. Mayor Haila reported that he had met with the ISU Student Government President and ex officio Anderson to discuss the agenda for the upcoming joint meeting. He stated that a draft agenda had been prepared and would be forwarded to the City Council for review and input. He also noted that the meeting format was being adjusted with the goal of completing the joint meeting within 90 minutes. He also shared that he had attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Danfoss for a new childcare center and that approximate ly half of the available openings at the facility would be open to the broader community. He then reported that he would be attending a conference in Johnston the following day concerning the City’s sister-city relationship with Podujevo, Kosovo. Finally, Mayor Haila raised for City Council consideration whether a formal policy should be established regarding which communications are included in the Packet of Communications to the City Council. Following brief discussion, the City Council agreed to place the matter on a future agenda for discussion. Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to place on a future agenda a discussion of policy for the Packet of Communications to the City Council. Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Rollins, seconded by Corrieri, to adjourn the meeting at 9:11 p.m. Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously. 21 Long-form minutes respectfully submitted by Taylor Swanson and Carly M. Watson.