HomeMy WebLinkAboutA003 - Motion approving Summary of Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting on September 22, 2026, and Special City Council Meeting on September 29, 2026To:Mayor & City Council
From:City Clerk's Office
Date:October 13, 2026
Subject:Approval of Minutes
Item No. 6
MEMO
Attached for the City Council's review are the minutes from the Regular City
Council Meeting on September 22, 2026, and Special City Council Meeting on
September 29, 2026.
ATTACHMENT(S):
C26-0922 Summary.pdf
C26-0929.pdf
Administration 515.239.5105 main
515.239.5142 fax
515 Clark Ave. P.O. Box 811
Ames, IA 50010
www.CityofAmes.org
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SUMMARY 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 acknowledged the
Club's founding in 1966 and its decades of commitment to the Kiwanis mission of
improving the lives of children, strengthening families, and building better communities.
Kiwanis Club President Marilyn Johnson and Vice President Marion Kresse accepted
the proclamation.
PROCLAMATION FOR "MESOTHELIOMA AWARENESS DAY", SEPTEMBER 26,
2026: Mayor Haila proclaimed September 26, 2026, as "Mesothelioma Awareness Day.”
The proclamation noted that asbestos was historically used in shipbuilding,
manufacturing, military applications, and construction of buildings, public schools, and
homes built before 1980, and that its use had been recognized as the worst occupational
health disaster in United States history. Lisa Kuehl, alongside Steve O'Brien, Carrol and
Laurie McCracken, and Jennifer Schwartz, accepted the proclamation on behalf of Iowa
families affected by the disease.
PROCLAMATION FOR "FIRE PREVENTION WEEK," OCTOBER 4-10, 2026: Mayor
Haila proclaimed October 4-10, 2026, as "Fire Prevention Week." The proclamation
focused specifically on the fire risks posed by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries found in
everyday devices including cell phones, laptops, e -bikes, e-scooters, and power tools.
Fire Inspector Jason Ziph, alongside Fire Department staff, accepted the proclamation.
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
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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
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
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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
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
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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, alongside Planner Benjamin Campbell and Transportation Planner
Kyle Thompson, presented the item, explaining that the land in question was formerly owned
by Iowa State University and was located south of the Union Pacific rail line. The property
was sold to two local developers who were partnering as co-applicants on the rezoning
request. Hunziker Companies was the developer of the east side and was proposing 26
single-family detached lots. RES Development was the developer of the west side and was
proposing 71 townhome units in a mix of duplexes, triplexes, and quadplexes.
Council Member Rollins returned to the meeting.
The Public Hearing was opened by Mayor Haila.
Justin Dodge, Hunziker Companies, addressed the City Council on behalf of the east side
of the development. He identified one additional deviation he wished to incorporate into
the Planned Unit Development (PUD), a garage-to-front-door setback of 19 feet rather
than the currently allowed 12 feet. He explained that on a 43 -foot-wide lot, achieving the
12-foot standard would require finishing a significant length of hallway, adding
unnecessary square footage and cost.
Luke Jensen, RES Development, addressed the City Council on behalf of the west side
of the development, Ontario Towns. He described the project as comprising of 71
attached townhome units and emphasized the developers' commitment to affordable new
construction. He noted that the Ames Plan 2040 had anticipated this type of residential
use on this property. He referenced the Hayden's Ridge project as a comparable
precedent and suggested the City Council consider revisiting PUD design standards.
Max Porter stated his opinion that 97 units was too dense for the site and expressed his
preference for single-family development. He also questioned whether the 400-foot notice
radius was adequate given the railroad right-of-way, raised concerns about neighborhood
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egress if Scholl Road were blocked, asked whether newer stormwater standards had
been considered, and requested an origin-destination traffic study.
Royce Quinn raised concerns about added traffic from the 97-unit development, noting
its proximity to Sawyer Elementary School. She questioned whether a formal traffic study
should be required and whether the proposed duplexes, triplexes, and quadplexes were
compatible with the surrounding predominantly single-family neighborhood. She also
inquired how many units would be owner-occupied versus rental.
Russell Frerichs reiterated concerns about density and traffic, citing long waits to turn left
from Minnesota Avenue onto Ontario Street. He asked the City Council to defer action
until a broader origin-destination study of Ontario Street from Stange Road to North
Dakota Avenue could be completed and urged a proactive approach to planning.
Susan Tucker questioned whether the traffic data was current, noting she had understood
at the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting that some of it was several years old.
She also cited difficulty turning left from Minnesota Avenue onto Ontario Street and
expressed concern about additional traffic near the intersection. She reiterated residents’
interest in knowing how many units would be owner-occupied versus rental.
Mayor Haila closed the Public Hearing when no one else came forward to speak.
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. The
ordinance would allow alcohol to be carried from establishment to establishment and
consumed on public sidewalks and streets within a defined downtown district for approved
special events. Assistant City Manager Phillips noted that Ames Main Street wished to
utilize the Social District for the Witch's Walk event on October 8, 2026, and that suspending
the rules to allow same-night adoption would be necessary if the City Council wished to
accommodate this request.
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.
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The Public Hearing was closed by Mayor Haila when no one else came forward to speak.
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.
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.
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 introduced the item,
noting that this was the first project to come before the City Council under the newly
created West University Pedestrian Enhancement District (O-WUPED) overlay. The
subject properties at 259 and 263 Hyland Avenue were located at the corner of Oakland
Avenue and Highland Avenue. The project was originally conceived as a single merged
parcel with one building, but had evolved into a two-building, two-lot proposal.
The Public Hearing was opened by Mayor Haila.
Chuck Winkleblack, Hunziker Companies, reported that the design challenges of the project
stemmed largely from the roughly 40-foot grade change between Oakland Street and
Hyland Avenue. He supported the variance approach for Building A but opposed condition
(e), arguing that further architectural emphasis at the Oakland corner could mislead
visitors toward a single-unit entrance rather than the main stair tower. He said clearer
door treatment and signage would be a better solution.
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Mayor Haila closed the Public Hearing when no one else came forward to speak.
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
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.
HEARING ON AMENDMENT TO THE CITY-WIDE URBAN REVITALIZATION AREA
DESIGNATION AND PLAN: Director Diekmann introduced the item as a follow-up to prior
City Council direction arising from the implementation of Senate File 2042 from the 2024
legislative session. He explained that development coming off of tax abatement did not count
as new growth for purposes of calculating general fund revenues, and that staff had
previously recommended ending the single-family tax abatement program one year earlier
than originally planned. The proposal would allow homes where construction began in
calendar year 2026 and was completed before the end of 2027 to remain eligible. Homes
where construction began on or after January 1, 2027, would not be eligible.
Mayor Haila opened the Public Hearing.
Justin Dodge, Hunziker Companies, addressed the City Council. He stated that North
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Sunset Ridge had a couple of builders lined up to purchase lots this fall and begin
construction, and that those homebuyers would benefit from remaining eligible for the
program. He expressed gratitude for the work of Planning and Housing staff on the analysis
and requested that the City Council approve Alternative No. 2.
The Public Hearing was closed by Mayor Haila 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.
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
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.
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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.
The Public Hearing was opened and closed by Mayor Haila 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.
RESOLUTION APPROVING 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.
Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Input when no one came forward to speak.
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.
RESOLUTION APPROVING APPOINTMENTS TO CITY COUNCIL DATA CENTER
COMMITTEE: Council Member Betcher reported that of the 54 applicants, 15 had been
selected to serve on the City Council Data Center Study Committee. 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
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and staff, unless additional assistance was requested.
The Public Input was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to
speak.
Moved by Rollins, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 26-610 approving
appointments to the City Council Data Center 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.
Mayor Haila opened and closed the Public Input 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.
RESOLUTION APPROVING ANSLEY DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT FOR CITY
PAVING OF A PORTION OF AURORA AVENUE: Director Diekmann was present to
answer questions.
The Public Input was opened and closed by Mayor Haila when no one came forward to
speak.
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.
Mayor Haila opened the Public Input.
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
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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,
describing 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.
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 on options for a potential corridor study of Lincoln Way
between Grand Avenue and University Boulevard. He noted that the report arose from a
fatal pedestrian crash at Lincoln Way and South Russell in February, and from
subsequent direction given by the City Council over the summer.
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.
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.
AMENDED ITEM - THIRD READING AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 4604
REVISING BUILDING CODE AND FIRE CODE CHAPTER 5: Moved by Betcher,
seconded by Corrieri, to pass on third reading and adopt ORDINANCE NO. 4604 revising
Building Code Chapter 5.
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Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
ADDITIONAL ITEM - THIRD READING AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 4606
REVISING FIRE CODE CHAPTER 8: 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.
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.
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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: The Mayor and City Council Members provided
highlights from their attendance at various board and commission meetings.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: The Mayor and City Council Members reported on various events
attended, upcoming meetings, community events, and items of interest.
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.
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______________________________ ______________________________
Taylor Swanson, Deputy City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
______________________________
Renee Hall, City Clerk
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MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
AMES, IOWA SEPTEMBER 29, 2026
The Special Meeting of the Ames City Council was called to order by Mayor John Haila
at 2:00 p.m. on the 29th day of September, 2026, pursuant to law. As it was impractical
for the Council Members to attend in person, Council Members Bronwyn Beatty -Hansen,
Gloria Betcher, Amber Corrieri, Tim Gartin, and Anita Rollins joined the meeting
electronically. Council Member Junck and ex officio Trey Anderson were absent.
CONSENT AGENDA: Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to approve the
Consent Agenda.
1. Motion approving commitment letter securing Rural Energy Savings Program funds
for the City of Ames contingent upon receipt and staff approval of letter
2. Motion authorizing the Mayor to sign a Certificate of Consistency with the 2024-2028
City of Ames CDBG Consolidated Plan on behalf of YSS for HUD renewal funding
application for their Central Iowa Youth Transitional Housing Program
3. RESOLUTION NO. 26-611 approving amendment to Purchase Agreement with
Keystone Equity Group in conjunction with the sale of Lots 9, 13, 14, 23, and 26 in
the Baker Subdivision
4. RESOLUTION NO. 26-612 authorizing a work change directive for the WPC
Nutrient Reduction Modifications Project in an amount not to exceed $68,500
Roll Call Vote: 5-0. Motions/Resolutions declared carried/adopted unanimously.
COUNCIL COMMENTS: Council Member Betcher announced that the first meeting of the
Data Center Study Committee was scheduled for later this evening at 6:00 p.m. in Council
Chambers. She shared that the meeting would not be broadcast, but that Council Members
and the public were welcome to attend.
Mayor Haila noted a letter received on Friday from Scott Renaud concerning a proposed
warehouse on Sondrol Avenue. City Manager Steve Schainker indicated the applicant was
seeking a response from the City Council and that staff would be prepared to place the item
on the agenda for the Council meeting on October 13.
Moved by Gartin, seconded by Rollins, to place the item on the agenda of the October 13,
2026, Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council.
Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
Mayor Haila also noted a minor inaccuracy in an article published by the Iowa State Daily
following an interview he had given. The article incorrectly reported that utility rates would
increase by $20 to $40 per month, when the correct figure was $20 to $40 per year. Mayor
Haila said that the reporter promptly issued a correction upon being informed of the error,
though the original version remained visible on the publication's splash page.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by Betcher, seconded by Rollins, to adjourn the meeting at 2:05
p.m.
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Vote on Motion: 5-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.
______________________________ ______________________________
Taylor Swanson, Deputy City Clerk John A. Haila, Mayor
______________________________
Renee Hall, City Clerk
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