HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-09/07/2010• •
September 7, 2010
The Council of the City of Waterloo, Iowa, met in Regular Session at City Hall Council
Chambers, Waterloo, Iowa, at 5:30 p.m., on Tuesday, September 7, 2010. Mayor Ernest G.
Clark in the Chair. Roll Call: Cole, Getty, Jones, Schmitt, Welper, Hart. Absent:
Greenwood.
Moment of Silence.
Pledge of Allegiance: David Jones, Ward 1 Council Member.
135145 - Hart/Schmitt
that the Agenda, as amended, for the Regular Session on Monday, September 7,
2010, at 5:30 p.m., be accepted and approved. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Motion carried.
135146 - Hart/Schmitt
that the Minutes, as proposed, for the Minutes of August 23, 2010, Regular
Session and August 27, 2010, Special Session, be accepted and approved. Ayes:
Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
Mayor Clark performed a Swearing -In of the following Police Officer: Marc
William Jasper.
Tony Pauley was recognized as September Team Member of the month.
Mayor Clark read a Proclamation declaring September as Life Insurance Awareness
Month.
Tammy Turner, Recycling Educator with the Black Hawk County Solid Waste
Management Commission, gave a presentation on the Energy & Environmental Fair to
be held on Saturday, September 25, 2010, in Cedar Falls.
CONSENT AGENDA
135147 - Hart/Schmitt
that the following items on the consent agenda be received, placed on file and
approved:
a. Resolutions to approve the following:
1. Schedule AP642, pp. 1-61, dated September 7, 2010, in the amount of
$2,505,186.51, a copy of which is on file in the City Clerk's office,
together with recommendation of approval of the Finance Committee.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-774.
2. Request to certify the following assessments to properties for work
performed by the Water Works, together with recommendation of approval of
Board of Water Works Trustees -Submitted by General Manager of Waterloo
Water Works Dennis Clark:
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-775.
3. Request by Stephen Gogel for an asphalt driveway to be located at 450
South Hackett Road, together with recommendation of approval -Submitted by
Eric Thorson, P.E., City Engineer
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No, 2010-776.
4. Request by Chris Starbuck for an asphalt driveway to be located at 2725
Randolph Street, together with recommendation of approval -Submitted by
Eric Thorson, P.E., City Engineer
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-777.
5. Request by Nathan Hovey for a concrete driveway to be located at 1660
Shultz Street, together with recommendation of approval -Submitted by Eric
Thorson, P.E., City Engineer
Address
Amount to certify
404
Wendell Court
$1,710.00
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-775.
3. Request by Stephen Gogel for an asphalt driveway to be located at 450
South Hackett Road, together with recommendation of approval -Submitted by
Eric Thorson, P.E., City Engineer
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No, 2010-776.
4. Request by Chris Starbuck for an asphalt driveway to be located at 2725
Randolph Street, together with recommendation of approval -Submitted by
Eric Thorson, P.E., City Engineer
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-777.
5. Request by Nathan Hovey for a concrete driveway to be located at 1660
Shultz Street, together with recommendation of approval -Submitted by Eric
Thorson, P.E., City Engineer
September 7, 2010 Page 2
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-778.
6. Request of Spencer Gann for tax exemptions on improvements totaling
$8,500.00 for property located at 930 Midland Street and located in the
Consolidated Urban Revitalization Area -Submitted by Shane Graham, Planner
II
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-779.
7. Request of Iowa Heartland Habitat For Humanity for tax exemptions on
improvements totaling $79,500.00 for property located at 1333 Leavitt
Street and located in the Consolidated Urban Revitalization Area -Submitted
by Shane Graham, Planner II
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-780.
8. Request of Iowa Heartland Habitat For Humanity for tax exemptions on
improvements totaling $14,780.00 for property located at 1571 Wakonda
Drive and located in the Consolidated Urban Revitalization Area -Submitted
by Shane Graham, Planner II
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-781.
9. Request of Heather Taylor of Grainger for a variance to the Noise
Ordinance on September 18, 2010 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. in
conjunction with Family Movie Night that will be held in the lot East of
827 Fisher Drive, together with recommendation of approval of Chief of
Police
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-782.
10. Request of Waterloo Public Library for a variance to the Noise Ordinance
on September 15, 2010 from 3:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in conjunction with
Hispanic Heritage Month that will be held in the library parking lot,
together with recommendation of approval of Chief of Police
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-783.
11. Request of Five Star Snow Trails Association to approve an application
with Iowa Department of Transportation to place signs within State Highway
right of way to allow the Five Star Snow Trails Association to place
snowmobile signs on city right-of-way
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-784.
b. Motion to approve the following:
1.
2.
3.
Travel Requests
Name & Title of
Personnel
Class/Meeting
Destination
Date(s)
Amount not
to Exceed
E
Mark Gallagher,
Sports Manager
Athletic
Business
Conference &
Expo
San Diego, CA
Nov. 30 -
Dec. 5,
2010
$1,740.00
Jon Martin,
Rehabilitation/Relo
cation Specialist
Thermo
Scientific
Nitron XRF
Analyser
Training
Bloomington,
MN
September
13-14,
2010
$285.00
Mayor Buck Clark;
Michelle Weidner,
Chief Financial
Officer; Suzy
Schares, City Clerk
Iowa League of
Cities annual
conference
Coralville,
IA
September
22-24,
2010
$825.00
4. Recommendation of appointment of Thaddeus Childers to Waste Water
Operator -Submitted by Larry N. Smith, Superintendent of Waste Management
Services
September 7, 2010
5. Mayor Clark's recommendation of the following appointments:
Page 3
Appointee
Board/Commission
Expiration
Date
New or Re -
Appointment
Beth Huffman
Waterloo
Rights
Commission on
Human
1/1/2013
New Appointment
Steven Buckles
Waterloo
Rights
Commission on
Human
1/1/2013
New Appointment
Sharina Sallis
Waterloo
Ri hts
g
Commission on
Human
1/1/2013
Re -Appointment
Ron Wood
Waterloo
Rights
Commissionon
Hurnan
1/1/2013
New Appointment
Beer License Permit Application
Class C
6. Casey's General Store #2879, 3260 University Avenue (Premise Update)
(Includes Sunday Sates)
7. Casey's General Store #2880, 1604 LaPorte Road (Premise Update) (Includes
Sunday Sales)
8. Tobacco Outlet Plus #500, 1803 LaPorte Road (Renewal) (Expires
10/14/2011) (Includes Sunday Sales)
Liquor License Permit Application
Class C
9. The Brown Bottle, 209 W. 5tr. Street (Renewal) (Expires 10/21/2010)
(Includes Sunday Sales)
10. Cafe Bar Fontana, 801 Commercial Street (Renewal) (Expires 7/31/2011)
(Includes Sunday Sales)
Beer/Wine License Permit Application
Special Class C
11. Young Arena, 125 Commercial Street (Renewal) (Expires 9/6/2011) (Includes
Sunday Sales)
Outdoor Cafe Application
12. Newtons Paradise Cafe, 128 E. 4th Street
13. Bonds
Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried. Item 1(b)(5) Ayes: Five. Nay:
Schmitt. Absent: Greenwood.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
135148 - Schmitt/Hart
that proof of publication of notice of public hearing on F.Y. 2011 Mark's Park
Play Area and Performance Structure, Contract No. 773, as published in the
Waterloo Courier on August 26, 2010, be received and placed on file. Ayes:
Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135149 - This being the time and place of public hearing, the Mayor called for written
and oral objections.
Schmitt/Hart
that the hearing be closed and oral and written comments be received and placed
on file Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135150 - Schmitt/Hart
that "Resolution confirming approval of plans, specifications, form of contract,
etc. in conjunction with F.Y. 2011 Mark's Park Play Area and Performance
Structure, Contract No. 773", be adopted. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-785.
135151 - Schmitt/Hart
September 7, 2010 Page 4
that "Resolution ordering construction in conjunction with F.Y. 2011 Mark's Park
Play Area and Performance Structure, Contract No. 773",• be adopted. Ayes: Six.
Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-786.
135152 - Schmitt/Hart
to receive, file and instruct City Clerk to open and read bids and refer to City
Engineer for review:
Bidder
Bid
Bond
Total Bid
Prairie Construction Co
Waterloo, Iowa
50
$797,600.00
Cardinal Construction Inc.
Waterloo, Iowa
50
$654,000.00
Tricon Construction
Dubuque, Iowa
5%
$600,000.00
Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
Councilperson Welper, is the low bid the one that will be awarded this? Isn't
what they are providing what we will look at? There is nothing specific as to
what goes in that part right?
Mike Broshar, Invision Architecture, yes the equipment is specific. We received
proposals a couple of months ago for splash pad and for play equipment to go in
the park. That wasn't included in these bid documents. So the design has been
finalized, selected and they are now bidding the installation and the completion
of Mark's Park plus the Performance structure. Which is the shade structure,
acoustic shell and lighting at the Amphitheatre.
Councilperson Schmitt, so we are bidding relatively apples to apples?
Mr. Broshar, yes. Absolutely apples to apples.
135153 - Hart/Schmitt
that proof of publication of notice of public hearing on Demolition and Site
Clearance Services with Regulated Asbestos Containing Materials for the Hazard
Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Property Acquisition Project, as published in
the Waterloo Courier on August 30, 2010, be received and placed on file. Ayes:
Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135154 - This being the time and place of public hearing, the Mayor called for written
and oral objections and there were none.
Hart/Schmitt
that the hearing be closed and oral and written comments be received and placed
on file. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135155 - Hart/Schmitt
that "Resolution confirming approval of Request for Proposals, plans,
specifications, form of contract, etc. in conjunction with Demolition and Site
Clearance Services with Regulated Asbestos Containing Materials for the Hazard
Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Property Acquisition Project", be adopted.
Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-787.
135156 - Hart/Schmitt
that "Resolution ordering construction in conjunction with Demolition and Site
Clearance Services with Regulated Asbestos Containing Materials for the Hazard
Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Property Acquisition Project", be adopted.
Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-788.
135157 - Hart/Schmitt
• •
September 7, 2010
Page 5
to receive, file and instruct City Clerk to open and read bids and refer to
Community Planning & Development Director for review:
Bidder
Bid Bond
Bid Amount
Active Thermal Concepts
,Hiawatha, Iowa
5%
$236,314.00
Benton's Sand & Gravel
Cedar Falls, Iowa
5%
$192,065.00
Oberbreacklig Construction
Onslow, Iowa
5%
$207,100.00
Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135158 - Hart/Weiper
that proof of publication of notice of public hearing on Request of Share Feltz
to vacate, sell and convey approximately 4,600 square feet of the Northeast
corner of Vinton and Franklin Street for $1,150.00, as published in the Waterloo
Courier on August 30, 2010, be received and placed on file. Ayes: Six.
Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135159 - This being the time and place of public, hearing, the Mayor called for written
and oral objections.
Councilperson Welper, when we put in the new 18`" Street bridge I was part of the
committee with a number of merchants and the citizens in that area. And they
felt that a two lane bridge was not going to be enough. They felt that we
needed a four lane bridge going across. A the time it was decided that we
didn't want a four lane bridge. But the decision was made to design the bridge
to add a second two lanes. This isn't going to interfere with us some day
should we end up putting a four lane bridge in there?
Noel Anderson, Community Planning & Development Director, the plat of survey
that you can see on there at the northern part of that between the alley and
Franklin Street is the house. Mr. Anderson points out the area on the map. You
can see that the lot that the house sits on there is barely any yard at all. He
points out the green space that the city is selling. So essentially a part of
one lot at the northeast corner of the intersection. So even if at some future
time we did go in and expand Vinton Street to additional lanes this would be a
small portion to reacquire because of the house next to it would be much more
expensive. I don't remember exactly, to expand Vinton to four lanes and to
actually get up the MLK Drive it was a multimillion dollar project because of
the going over the railroad and difference in elevations there. So it would be
a huge project to do that and be able to attach to MLK Drive.
Councilperson Welper, I know there's been some questions as to why does the
bridge lean? Well it was designed that way for additional two more lanes.
Mr. Anderson, this is a small part of a lot that would go with the house in the
future and the house will be a lot more expensive to reacquire this. I don't
think it's a major hurdle in the future.
Hart/Welper
that the hearing be closed and oral and written comments be received and placed
on file. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135160 - Hart/Welper
that "an Ordinance vacating approximately 4,600 square feet of the Northeast
corner of Vinton and Franklin Street", be received, placed on file, considered
and passed for the first time. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135161 - Hart/Weiper
that rules requiring ordinances to be considered and voted for passage at two
prior meetings be suspended. Ayes: Five. Absent: Greenwood. Nay: Schmitt.
Motion failed.
135162 - Hart/Schmitt
that proof of publication of notice of public hearing on Request by Kevan
Cortright on behalf of Browning Family Trust to rezone approximately 2.5 acres
of land from "R-4" Multiple Residence District to "R-4, C -Z" Conditional Zoning
September 7, 2010 Page 6
District for property located at 3254 Kimball Avenue for the purpose of allowing
a pharmacy and related uses, as published in the Waterloo Courier on August 31,
2010, be received and placed on file. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion
carried.
135163 - This being the time and place of public hearing, the Mayor called for written
and oral objections and there were none.
Hart/Welper
that the hearing be closed and file recommendation of approval of Planning,
Programming and Zoning Commission and oral and written comments be received and
placed on file. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135164 - Hart/Welper
that "an Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2479, as amended, City Zoning
Ordinance by adding Subsection No. 113 to Section 2A -7N, Conditional Zoning
Certain Property", be received, placed on file, considered and passed for the
first time. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135165 - Hart/Weiper
that rules requiring ordinances to be considered and voted for passage at two
prior meetings be suspended. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135166 - Hart/Welper
that "an Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2479, as amended, City Zoning
Ordinance by adding Subsection No. 113 to Section 2A -7N, Conditional Zoning
Certain Property", be considered and passed for the second and third times and.
adopted. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Ordinance adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 5002.
135167 - Schmitt/Hart
that proof of publication of notice of public hearing on Request by Claassen
Engineering on behalf of Lost Island Real Estate, LC to rezone approximately
14.8 acres of land to "R-1" One and Two Family Residence District, 51.4 acres of
land to "R-4, R -P" Planned Multiple Residence District, and 87.2 acres from "A-
1" Agricultural District to "C -P" Planned Commercial District at the northwest
corner of East Shaulis Road and Hess Road, as published in the Waterloo Courier
on August 31, 2010, be received and placed on file. Ayes: Six. Absent:
Greenwood. Motion carried.
135168 - This being the time and place of public hearing, the Mayor called for written
and oral objections and there were none.
Schmitt/Hart
that the hearing be closed and file recommendation of approval of Planning,
Programming and Zoning Commission and oral and written comments be received and
placed on file. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
Patricia Connell, 1944 Winston Place, the people on Winston Place were never
notified ahead of time. And when I presented the last council meeting, even
though all of our kitchens and living rooms look out on the proposed Bamboo
Ridge and the residential area. We applaud the Bertch's for everything they
have done and its all been first class. But we have no way of being assured
that what's going to be in there is not going to devalue our property. And how
do we know that? The ridge is high enough and its what we look at everyday from
every room in our house. And four of the five people who are represented here
from the Winston Place area. To look at RVs that aren't camouflaged is going to
be a definite problem for us as far as our satisfaction and valuation of our
properties. When you start talking about a small convenience store and cabins
that I think can be well handled and very good taste. Because I know what Gary
and Becky have done before. When you start talking about gas stations it starts
to scare us and then when you start talking about the changing to the
residential area, are they going to blend with the flavor of the homes that are
there now? And we just need assurance that they are going to and that they are
not going to be changed. We don't want to be snobs but we invested heavily in
the homes that we have and we don't want to see them further devalue then they
already have been by our present economy.
Stuart Birley, 2002 Winston Place, I oppose this also from the standpoint on the
valuation of our properties. We had properties that just sold for $650,000.00
and my house is also up in the $400,000.00 range. I've lived there 22 years and
the area has developed very nicely. I am opposed to having RVs, cabins and I
•
• •
September 7, 2010 Page 7
think that the council would want to keep our property values up. We've had a
hard time in the last two years trying to keep the values up. And our taxes
haven't gone down but the valuations are still up there and we are being taxed
on those valuations. But to put in things that are going to pull our values
down I am opposed to that.
Joseph Oppold, 1920 Winston Place, I am wondering and of course this hasn't gone
very far at this point, whether there have been any studies regarding traffic?
I make that point because there is going to be stop signs for the entrance. We
already see back up of cars at the intersection of Shaulis and Hess Road all the
way from Shaulis down to Winston Place at times. The people from the main part
of the traffic is people going to and from Hawkeye Community College. And if
they have to have two waits at stop signs of that length I am wondering how well
that will set with them. In regards to the lake, I think that will probably
come up in the future and vote on whether that's feasible or not.
Allen Sessler, 2008 Winston Place, we just also have concerns about how this
will come about as far as I've seen maps different ways. Whether the RV park is
going to be on the north side or the south side. And actually whatever is on
the south side will be directly across from the golf course which is a beautiful
area. It just seems to me like we live along the golf course there and we
probably our property valuations for tax purposes I'm assuming are somewhat
higher because of that. Seems like it would even be in the city's best interest
to have the land that is directly facing that to be zoned for homes at least
with some tier stepping back. The multiple family homes, and depending on where
the RV park is actually going, the last time I saw it, it was actually on the
north side. But that is one thing we just feel on how this has all come about
and ask for consideration then.
Councilperson Cole, I believe Mr. Claassen and Mr. Bertch are in the audience.
It might be in the interest of fairness to have one of the gentlemen talk to us
about what was said. I know that at the Planning, Programming and Zoning
Commission when the people from one of the cross streets discovered what the
real plan was a lot of the opposition went away. Because Mr. Bertch was very
amenable to their concerns.
Bill Claassen, Engineering for the project, as far as assurances of what is
going to happen we really don't know what is going to happen really until it is
there. I guess for the only insurance that you have here is what the Bertch's
have done on their other developments. And that's a matter of faith that's
going to continue here. I personally do not live there. But I fully believe
what their going to do here is going to be a very nice development.
Councilperson Cole referenced the discussion we had at the Planning, Programming
and Zoning Commission meeting. At that time there was no one there from the
Winston Place area however there were from the Jersey Lane, Guernsey and those
cross streets over there. And they were concerned because it was right next to
them. And they met with Gary and Eric and the outcome of that was they were
very satisfied. I don't know if any of those people are here tonight but this
development is planned to be first class. Every aspect of it. The dam, the
lake, the RV park will have as many amenities as my home does as far as
availability of cable t.v., telephone service, etc. It's just going to be a
very nice park. The lot size, it's going to be fairly large for an RV park as
well. So as far as the convenience store/gasoline station this project, the RV
park portion of it is going to be one of the Campgrounds of America. It is a
premier campground organizations in the country. And I believe they want to
have a convenience store where people come in and out of there and it will have
a gas station primarily for people servicing that RV park or using it as well as
the general public. This is proper to zone this area as it has been proposed.
The waterpark and the casino east of this area and then going into some
commercial area. I believe that is why staff recommends approval. Traffic
studies, we have not done any traffic studies here. We could do that. The
traffic at that intersection at Hess Road and Shaulis is clearly backed up
because of what Hawkeye Community College. To make that worse, these RV people
would have to be going into that direction and have to do that at a time when
the traffic to the community college is occurring at the same time. I think the
likelihood of that is very remote. I have an RV and you just don't go in and
out of a park at the times that the school is changing classes.
Councilperson Cole, one thing that I would like to point out is the map that I'm
holding in my hand which shows along Shaulis Road which is where the Winston.
Place residents look across is all residential according to this concept. She
points out areas on a map: the RV park is in the far left hand corner, and the
residential is adjacent to "cow town" as we lovingly all it.
Noel Anderson, Community Planning & Development Director, points out the RV
park, convenience store locations. From the first Planning, Programming and
Zoning meeting they show an "R-1" district which is One and Two Family Homes
that are allowed, about 180 feet. With the residents of the "cow subdivision"
the Bertch's expanded that to 500 feet over so its almost tripling in size there
September 7, 2010 Page 8
for one and two family homes. The other part would be for "R -4,R -P" which
allows for multi -family condo development then the "C -P" down here. So as Mr.
Claassen noted there is a good amount of faith in the Bertch's here. There is
actually more than faith since the planning district was specific when it came
back site by site, building by building. However they laid out would actually
have to go back to council for approval on how that is laid out. So Winston
Place is right about here. So they are about a half a mile from the RVs. Being
able to see them they would have to look further but as this develops over time
we will have to see.
Mayor Clark, keep in mind also that this particular action tonight is just to
rezone the property. We have a long ways as far as the design and approval of
the design. And as Mr. Anderson just said we have some degree of control over
how that particular property is inevitably developed. If we don't like that we
can have some control over that. So tonight's issue is just to rezone not to
approve any kind of design plan.
Mr. Oppold, I believe Mr. Claassen just spoke and I think I heard him say that
north of Winston Place, that area was at the Planning, Programming and Zoning
Commission when they were making a decision on that. We received no notice.
The first we knew about this was when the Waterloo Courier carried an article.
Mayor Clark, just to clarify on that, the requirements to notify property owners
is 250 feet.
Mr. Anderson, 250 feet by the Zoning Ordinance and Winston Place is about 500 or
600 feet away.
Mayor Clark, so we have an ordinance set as to those that do get notified and
according to the ordinance is a 250 feet radiance around the effected area.
Which is why you didn't get notified.
Mr. Oppold, yes but its kind of most real estate agents would agree that if you
can see the golf course from your home residence you are considered to be on the
golf course. Well, I wish sometime the council would consider changing the 250
feet to more lengthy distance so people could be notified.
Mayor Clark, we will take that into consideration.
135169 - Schmitt/Hart
that "an Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2479, as amended, City Zoning
Ordinance by adding Subsection No. 407 to Section 2A-5, Rezoning Certain
Property", be received, placed on file, considered and passed for the first
time. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135170 - Schmitt/Hart
that rules requiring ordinances to be considered and voted for passage at two
prior meetings be suspended. Ayes: Five. Absent: Greenwood. Nay: Schmitt.
Motion failed.
RESOLUTIONS
135171 - Getty/Hart
that "Resolution approving cancellation of special assessments that fall under
the new Iowa Code 384.84 plus any penalty and interest accumulated against these
amounts, and authorize City Clerk to notify Black Hawk County Treasurer of said
cancellations -Submitted by Suzy Schares, City Clerk", be adopted. Ayes: Three.
Nay: Three(Getty, Jones, Schmitt). Motion failed.
Councilperson Getty, is anybody looked at how much tax assessment the State has
taken away from the City of Waterloo? According to what little bit I have
looked at tonight we are looking at probably about $400,000.00 or $500,000.00
worth. Is there a way that we can recoup these? Can we send certificates to
the past property owners of these properties? Can we sue?
Mayor Clark, what we can do is go back to those owners that owned the property
at the time the assessment was assessed. We are going to do whatever we can.
Councilperson Getty, because I don't understand what facilitated the State to do
such a thing. Maybe we can go back against the State for the cost. I don't
know but it just doesn't make sense to me.
Mayor Clark, me either.
• •
• •
September 7, 2010 Page 9
Councilperson Getty, we've got peoples names on here who have violated and
haven't paid their garbage/sewer or mowing/cleanup/snow removal charges. And
then the State turns around and states that is forgiven. That makes no sense.
Councilperson Cole, Councilperson Getty and I were visiting about this earlier
and I'm sure these are not the only assessments: bonds, ambulance co -pays,
everything that people owe the city. And we had a huge fight across the street
a couple of years ago about hiring a collections agency. We could probably
make --up what we took out of the reserve fund if we would just start collecting
what people owe us.
Mayor Clark, I know we are heading down that direction
Councilperson Cole, a thought for the future.
135172 - Getty/Hart
that "Resolution approving application for Black Hawk County Gaming Association
Grant in the amount of $62,5000.00 for the Drive Safe Cedar Valley - Public
Awareness Campaign -Submitted by Sandie Greco, Superintendent of Traffic
Operations", be adopted. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-789.
135173 - Getty/Hart
that "Resolution approving Contracts, Bonds and Certificate of Insurance with
Voltmer, Inc. of Decorah, Iowa in conjunction with Ridgeway Avenue and Highway
63 (Sergeant Road) Traffic Safety Improvement Project -Submitted by Sandie Greco,
Superintendent of Traffic Operations", be adopted. Ayes: Six. Absent:
Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-790.
135174 - Welper/Schmitt
that "Resolution approving a 28E Agreement with the Iowa Alcoholic Beverages
Division for tobacco enforcement -Submitted by Daniel J. Trelka, Chief of
Police", be adopted. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Councilperson Hart, we are making sure that if there is a violation there is no
conversation and they will be fined for the violation?
Daniel Trelka, Chief of Police, yes. They want us to Ridgeley enforce these
laws.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-791.
135175 - Welper/Schmitt
that "Resolution approving grant agreement with Iowa Finance Authority for the
Iowans Helping Iowans funds in the amount of $500,000.00 for disaster victims -
Submitted by Nancy Gulick, Community Development Coordinator", be adopted.
Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Councilperson Welper, I really tried to find out what this is all about. It
says for disaster victims. Is this a duplication of what the Federal Government
was doing for people who were effected by floods? I couldn't figure out what
disasters we are talking about.
Rudy Jones, Community Development Director, this is somewhat of an extension of
the previous disaster recovery funds that we have that the State made available.
Councilperson Welper, so do you know where the State is getting this money? Is
this a pass through from the Federal Government?
Mr. Jones, its normally CDBG funds. There is going to be a meeting held
tomorrow to better explain how FEMA is going to come in and direct that
initiative.
Councilperson Welper, so the State is just a pass through for this?
Mr. Jones, yes.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-792.
135176 - Welper/Schmitt
September 7, 2010 Page 10
that "Resolution approving request of Sharon Armfield-Penn of 621 Sycamore
Street for a cancellation of special assessment in the amount of $1,077.56 plus
any penalty and interest accumulated against this amount, and authorize City
Clerk to notify Black Hawk County Treasurer of said cancellation -Submitted by
Suzy Schares, City Clerk", be adopted. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-793.
135177 - Schmitt/Welper
that "Resolution approving an agreement with Department of Justice Office of
Justice Programs for FY2010 Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program in the amount
of $108,069.00, with no required cash match, to be used for funding the Tri -
County Drug Task Force, and authorize Mayor to execute said document -Submitted
by Daniel J. Trelka, Chief of Police", be adopted.. Ayes: Six. Absent:
Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-794.
135178 - Schmitt/Welper
that "Resolution approving award of contract in the amount of $116,466.00 to WBC
Mechanical Inc. of Waterloo, Iowa in conjunction with Library Boiler Replacement
Project -Submitted by Debra Anderson, Building Official/Maintenance
Administrator", be adopted. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-795.
135179 - Schmitt/Welper
that "Resolution approving Contract, Bonds and Certificate of Insurance in the
amount of $116,466.00 with WBC Mechanical Inc. of Waterloo, Iowa in conjunction
with Library Boiler Replacement Project, and authorize Mayor to execute said
document -Submitted by Debra Anderson, Building Official/Maintenance
Administrator", be adopted. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-796.
135180 - Getty/Schmitt
that "Resolution approving Professional Services Agreement with Iowa Northland
Regional Council of Governments (INRCOG) in the amount of $40,000.00 in
conjunction with Commercial Storm Water Lift Stations for assistance with block
grant funding -Submitted by Jamie Knutson, P.E., Associate Engineer", be adopted.
Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-797.
135181 - Getty/Schmitt
that "Resolution approving Professional Services Agreement with Iowa Northland
Regional Council of Governments (INRCOG) in the amount of $15,000.00 in
conjunction with Commercial Storm Water Lift Stations for assistance with EDA
grant funding -Submitted by Jamie Knutson, P.E., Associate Engineer", be adopted.
Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-798.
135182 - Getty/Schmitt
that "Resolution approving Professional Services Agreement with Iowa Northland
Regional Council of Governments (INRCOG) in the amount of $40,000.00 in
conjunction with Residential Storm Water Lift Stations for assistance with block
grant funding -Submitted by Jamie Knutson, P.E., Associate Engineer", be adopted.
Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-799.
135183 - Getty/Schmitt
that "Resolution approving Contract, Bonds and Certificate of Insurance in the
amount of $11,853.90 with B & B Builders and Supply of Waterloo, Iowa in
conjunction with F.Y. 2011 Sidewalk Repair Block Grant Program - Zone 10,
Contract No. 780 -Submitted by W. Wayne Castle, PLS, EI, Associate Engineer", be
adopted. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-800.
135184 - Cole/Hart
• •
• •
September 7, 2010
Page 11
that "Resolution approving Iowa Jobs Program Grant Award Agreement with Iowa
Jobs Board and Iowa Finance Authority to receive $5,000,000.00 from the State of
Iowa's I -Jobs II Program to be used for the City of Waterloo Public Works
Building, and authorize Mayor to execute any necessary documents -Submitted by
Noel Anderson, Community Planning & Development Director", be adopted. Ayes:
Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-801.
135185 - Cole/Hart
that "Resolution approving Second Amendment to the original Development
Agreement with Cardinal Construction, Inc. changing the start date to April 1,
2011 and end date to January 1, 2012, and authorize Mayor and City Clerk to
execute said document -Submitted by Noel Anderson, Community Planning &
Development Director", be adopted. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-802.
135186 - Cole/Hart
that "Resolution approving Real Estate Purchase Agreement with Shane D. Bohimann
and Kathy R. Bohimann for the acquisition of 302 Jefferson Street in the amount
of $90,500.00 plus miscellaneous costs up to $10,000.00, and authorize Mayor aid
City Clerk to execute said document -Submitted by Noel Anderson, Community
Planning & Development Director", be adopted. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-803.
135187 - Cole/Hart
that "Resolution approving Contract for Disaster Recovery Flood Insurace
Reimbursement Program for A&S Petroleum, Inc. at 127 Jefferson Street, in the
amount of $3,328.00, and authorize Mayor to execute said document -Submitted by
Aric Schroeder, City Planner", be adopted. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-804.
135188 - Hart/Schmitt
that "Resolution approving recommendation of acceptance of amended bid from Per
Mar Security Services of Cedar Rapids, Iowa in conjunction with Security
Services for E. 5th St Ramp, E. Park Ave Ramp, West Side Parking Ramp & 4th St
Bridge Walkway at a cost of $13.80 per hour -Submitted by Suzy Schares, City
Clerk", be adopted. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-805.
135189 - Hart/Schmitt
that "Resolution approving the recommendation of acceptance of bid from Sandry
Fire Supply, LLC of DeWitt, IA, in the amount of $176,640.00 for the purchase of
Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA's) and rescind Resolution No. 2010-593
in its entirety -Submitted by W.D. Carter, Fire Chief", be adopted. Ayes: Six.
Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-806.
135190 - Hart/Schmitt
that "Resolution authorizing retention of Hall & Associates for representation
in the matter entitled Iowa League of Cities V. United States Environmental
Protection Agency for a fee not to exceed $25,000, and authorize City Attorney
to execute agreement and other necessary documents -Submitted by James E. Walsh,
Jr., City Attorney", be adopted. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-807.
Mayor Clark, this is in regards to the attorney that several cities have
retained to represent us regarding several water issues. And to further
litigate those issues in court.
James Walsh, City Attorney, the idea is to combine forces so we all don't pay
separate lawyers to get a fair interpretation of the flood water remediation
rules that are coming down. These are potentially costing cities millions upon
millions of dollars. They are being imposed regardless of whether the cities
can pay for them or the taxpayers can pay for them. And we feel that the State
of Iowa needs guidance legally in order to make sure these things are done in a
September 7, 2010 Page 12
reasonable fashion. We save quite a bit of money when we litigated together
over the cable franchise fees. And I think we're doing basically the same thing
here. We're hiring one Des Moines, Iowa law firm and getting together and
paying for our share of that one lawyer rather than having ten lawyers to have
to litigate this. And .it provides the guy who has got more expertise and saves
everyone money.
Councilperson Schmitt, didn't I see that its not to exceed $25,000.00 in the
documentation.
Mr. Walsh, that's all that we are asking for and I'm not saying that's all it
will be but we understand the budget and believe we can get through a year with
that and come back if we need to.
ORDINANCES
135191 - Getty/Hart
that "an Ordinance amending the 2008 Traffic Code by Repealing Subsection (416)
Water Street of Section 551, Parking Prohibited At All Times On Certain Streets;
and enacting in lieu thereof a new Subsection (416) Water Street of Section 551,
Parking Prohibited At All Times On Certain Streets: No Parking on the south
side of the 700 block of Water Street", be received, placed on file, considered
and passed for the first time. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135192 - Getty/Hart
that rules requiring ordinances to be considered and voted for passage at two
prior meetings be suspended. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135193 - Getty/Hart
that "an Ordinance amending the 2008 Traffic Code by Repealing Subsection (416)
Water Street of Section 551, Parking Prohibited At All Times On Certain Streets;
and enacting in lieu thereof a new Subsection (416) Water Street of Section 551,
Parking Prohibited At All Times On Certain Streets: No Parking on the south
side of the 700 block of Water Street", be considered and passed for the second
and third times and adopted. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Ordinance adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 5003.
135194 - Getty/Hart
that "an Ordinance amending the 2008 Traffic Code by Repealing Subsection (123)
Vinton of Section 553, No Parking Here To Corner; and enacting in lieu thereof a
new subsection (123) Vinton of Section 553, No Parking Here To Corner: No
Parking Here To Corner on the east side of the 700 block of Vinton Street", be
received, placed on file, considered and passed for the first time. Ayes: Six.
Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
Councilperson Schmitt, did that come to use from the neighbors?
Councilperson Hart, I received a call from one of the neighbors in the area that
there was parking by a business there and that they were absolutely having
trouble being able to see around the corner. So we had code enforcement go out
and they took care of the business but as far as being able to see around that
corner its been a challenge when cars have been parked there. So I took the
lady's comments that called me then I called Sandie Greco. They went out and
found that it was a challenge for people to be able to see at that corner.
135195 - Getty/Hart
that rules requiring ordinances to be considered and voted for passage at two
prior meetings be suspended. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried,
135196 - Getty/Hart
that "an Ordinance amending the 2008 Traffic Code by Repealing Subsection (123)
Vinton of Section 553, No Parking Here To Corner; and enacting in lieu thereof a
new subsection (123) Vinton of Section 553, No Parking Here To Corner: No
Parking Here To Corner on the east side of the 700 block of Vinton Street", be
considered and passed for the second and third times and adopted. Ayes: Six.
Absent: Greenwood.
Ordinance adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 5004.
OTHER COUNCIL BUSINESS
135197 - Welper/Schmitt
• •
• •
September 7, 2010 Page 13
that Change Order No. 1 for a net increase of $23,661.00 for work performed by
Robert Hauptley Construction of Waterloo, Iowa in conjunction with F.Y. 2010
Removal and Replacement of the Aeration Equipment at the Satellite and Easton
Avenue Water Pollution Control Facilities, Contract No. 788 -Submitted by Larry
Smith, Superintendent of Waste Management Services, be received, placed on file
and approved. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135198 - Welper/Schmitt
that Community Development Block Grant FY2010 Consolidated Annual Performance
and Evaluation Report (C.A.P.E.R.)-Submitted by Rudy D. Jones, Community
Development Director, be received and placed on file. Ayes; Six. Absent:
Greenwood. Motion carried.
135199 -:Welper/Schmitt
that Change Order No. 7 for a net decrease of $362.00 for work performed by
Cardinal Construction, Inc. of Waterloo, Iowa in conjunction with New Fire
Station #8 -Submitted by Debra Anderson, Building Official/Maintenance
Administrator, be•received, placed on file and approved. Ayes: Six. Absent:
Greenwood. Motion carried.
135200 - Schmitt/Welper
to instruct Superintendent of Central Garage to prepare specifications, bid
document, etc. in conjunction with Purchase of One (1) 34. Ton Pickup with
Aluminum Service Box, be received, placed on file and approved. Ayes: Six.
Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135201 - Schmitt/Welper
that specifications, bid document, etc. in conjunction with Purchase of One (1)
3/ Ton Pickup with Aluminum Service Box, be received and placed on file. Ayes:
Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135202 - Schmitt/Welper
that "Resolution preliminarily approving specifications, bid document, etc. in
conjunction with Purchase of One (1) 41 Ton Pickup with Aluminum Service Box", be
adopted. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-808.
135203 - Schmitt/Welper
that "Resolution setting date of hearing on specifications, bid document, etc.
and taking of bids as September 27, 2010 at 5:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council
Chambers on the Purchase of One (1) .N Ton Pickup with Aluminum Service Box", be
adopted and City Clerk instructed to publish notice of same. Ayes: Six.
Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-809.
135204 - Schmitt/Welper
to instruct Superintendent of Central Garage to prepare specifications, bid
document, etc. in conjunction with Purchase of Two (2) Ton Pickups with
Aluminum Dump Boxes, be received, placed on file and approved. Ayes: Six.
Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135205 - Schmitt/Welper
that specifications, bid document, etc. in conjunction with Purchase of Two (2)
34 Ton Pickups with Aluminum Dump Boxes, be received and placed on file. Ayes:
Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135206 - Schmitt/Welper
that "Resolution preliminarily approving specifications, bid document, etc. in
conjunction with Purchase of Two (2) 3/ Ton Pickups with Aluminum Dump Boxes", be
adopted. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-810.
135207 - Schmitt/Welper
that "Resolution setting date of hearing on specifications, bid document, etc.
and taking of bids as September 27, 2010 at 5:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council
September 7, 2010
Page 11
Chambers on the Purchase of Two (2) n Ton Pickups with Aluminum Dump Boxes", be
adopted and City Clerk instructed to publish notice of same. Ayes: Six.
Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-811.
135208 - Schmitt/Welper
to instruct Superintendent of Central Garage to prepare specifications, bid
document, etc. in conjunction with Rental of Three (3) Motor Graders, be
received, placed on file and approved. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion
carried.
135209 - Schmitt/Welper
that specifications, bid document, etc. in conjunction with Rental of Three (3)
Motor Graders, be received and placed on file. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Motion carried.
135210 - Schmitt/Welper
that "Resolution preliminarily approving specifications, bid document, etc. in
conjunction with Rental of Three (3) Motor Graders", be adopted. Ayes: Six.
Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-812.
135211 - Schmitt/Welper
that "Resolution setting date of hearing on specifications, bid document, etc.
and taking of bids as September 20, 2010 at 5:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council
Chambers on the Rental of Three (3) Motor Graders", be adopted and City Clerk
instructed to publish notice of same. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-813.
135212 - Hart/Welper
to instruct Leisure Services Director to prepare bid document, specifications,
etc, in conjunction with Riverfront Stadium Field Lighting Upgrade, be received,
placed on file and approved. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135213 - Hart/Welper
that bid document, specifications, etc. in conjunction with Riverfront Stadium
Field Lighting Upgrade, be received and placed on file. Ayes: Six. Absent:
Greenwood. Motion carried.
135214 - Hart/Welper
that "Resolution preliminarily approving bid document, specifications, etc. in
conjunction with Riverfront Stadium Field Lighting Upgrade", be adopted. Ayes:
Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-814.
135215 - Getty/Hart
that "Resolution setting date of hearing on bid document, specifications, etc.
and taking of bids as September 27 2010 at 5:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council
Chambers on the Riverfront Stadium Field Lighting Upgrade", be adopted and City
Clerk instructed to publish notice of same. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-815.
135216 - Getty/Schmitt
to instruct City Engineer to prepare plans, specifications, form of contract,
etc. in conjunction with F.Y. 2011 Rainbow Drive and Letsch Road Force Main,
Contract No. 792, be received, placed on file and approved. Ayes: Six.
Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135217 - Getty/Schmitt
that plans, specifications, form of contract, etc. in conjunction with F.Y. 2011
Rainbow Drive and Letsch Road Force Main, Contract No. 792, be received and
placed on file. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
135218 - Getty/Schmitt
• •
• •
September 7, 2010
Page 15
that `Resolution preliminarily approving plans, specifications, form of
contract, etc. in conjunction with F.Y. 2011 Rainbow Drive and Letsch Road Force
Main, Contract No. 792", be adopted. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-816.
135219 - Getty/Schmitt
that "Resolution setting date of hearing on plans, specifications, form of
contract, etc. and taking of bids as September 20, 2010 at 5:30 p.m. in the City
Hall Council Chambers on the F.Y. 2011 Rainbow Drive and Letsch Road Force Main,
Contract No. 792", be adopted and City Clerk instructed to publish notice of
same. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-817.
135220 - Schmitt/Welper
that "Resolution setting date of hearing as September 20, 2010 to approve
request to rezone approximately 38.9 acres of land located at 4012 and 4428
Leversee Road, directly west of the Waterloo Regional Airport, from "A-1"
Agricultural District to "M -2,P" Planned Industrial District -Submitted by Noel
Anderson, Community Planning & Development Director", be adopted and City Clerk
instructed to publish notice of same. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-818.
135221 - Schmitt/Welper.
that "Resolution setting date of hearing as September 20, 2010 to approve
request of Lori Klingfus to sell and convey city owned property formerly known
as 1604 Garden Avenue at a cost of $15,150.00 -Submitted by Chris Western, City
Planner II", be adopted and City Clerk instructed to publish notice of same.
Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2010-819.
ORAL PRESENTATIONS
135222 - Freida Weems, first of all there were no agendas to accommodate all of the
participants. The very first item that you had up obviously for discussion 1
don't know when it happened. I don't know when it was supposed to be allowed
regarding the Human Rights Commission appointees. And given the gravity of your
meeting two weeks ago regarding the issues surrounding the entire issue of the
Human Rights Commission I am surprised and disappointed with this City Council
that you didn't see it necessary or important that you open that up for
discussion on the floor knowing that that was what was to be discussed today.
Mayor Clark, could I ask you to state your name address?
Ms. Weems, I will, I will. It's not required and I don't have to. Especially
two weeks ago at the Human Rights Commission meeting an individual who is a
founder of our Human Rights Commission, the reason we have a human rights
commission. The individual who fought, literally fought, bleed and sacrificed
time and family for this Human Rights Commission was not given consideration to
become a commissioner at your urging you asked her to going your campaign based
on her history. Based on her contributions to this community you asked her to
come and play a part in the growth of the Human Rights Commission and the
correcting of the ills that have been expressed long before your tenure. We
have had issues with the Human Rights Commission probably for every mayor that
has sat since it's founding here in Waterloo. So this is nothing new. And
what's concerning me is we have the attitude and the thinking that surrounds
this Human Rights Commission that its as if it is not important. And you being
a former Police Officer and now the Mayor of the highest concentration of
minorities in this state. Understand that especially that there is no time ever
that this time we need more than any time a Human Rights Commission. You
understand that when people feel violated or discriminated against and those
protective classes in which I hope you all know what they are. Their last
resort often times is an agency like the Human Rights Commission. Waterloo has
that only distinction of having the only Human Rights Commission in this area,
Some municipalities are so large they have EEOC, they have other agencies. We
do not have that luxury. So you understand, if not you shou.'.d understand that
that institution is extremely important. When people feel that they have been
violated against and discriminated against under those circumstances and any
kind of circumstances under the protective classes when they go to the Human
Rights Commission that is often their last resort. And if that voice, if their
voice is not taken or its quieted or that right is taken away from them or
compromised. What we have, you know we've had all of the examples in our
September 7, 2010 Page 1,
national news across the board. We don't need that here in Waterloo. And
you don't know what I'm talking about as of late, a couple of weeks ago a
gentleman in Connecticut I believe it was, felt that he had been discriminated
against and had no voice. He didn't know where to go. He took hostages and we
know that did not end well at all for that gentleman. We can't afford not to
have a operating, a functional, and a commission that is operable. We all agree
there. When you, I don't know when you were going to allow for someone from the
public to address that issue today knowing that that was an item of contention
two weeks ago. Even your phone call to that individual in which we are speaking
about, that founder of the Human Rights Commission. Your phone call indicated
you had issues with it. Yet you didn't accommodate for any discussion or open
it up to the floor. I stood twice to be recognized. Councilperson Hart saw me,
everyone saw me. I stood back here to be recognized and I was not recognized.
Even during the time that you recognized the two individuals that were awarded
and the other two were not here. That is a violation of a citizen's right here
in Waterloo, Iowa. Every individual here at the city council represents every
citizen in this city. Personal agendas and political agendas have no business
in this form. Have no business in this room. The only agenda that is important
is the rights of the people of this city. And you are suppose to be, your
suppose to protect the interest of those citizens. Everyone should be, we
shouldn't even have to be here. If all was all good in the perfect world no
individual should have to come here and voice their opinion if they knew that
their representatives here in the city council were recognizing and had their
best interests at heart. When people feel a room up that's usually not a good
sign. That's usually a sign that they feel that their voices are not being
heard or their issues have not been presented properly or whatever. This is
very serious when we have someone. We want to at this time, I want to note that
for a matter of record once again there were no agendas to accommodate this
crowd.
Mayor Clark, that is so noted. There is an agenda posted in the display case on
the first floor. We try to get enough agendas up here. This is an unusually
large crowd tonight.
Ms. Weems, you anticipated that though didn't you because of some of the items
that are on there? Just the items alone would substantiate a larger crowd than
normal. When was the time going to be allotted for or opening up for discussion
for the public for this particular item?
Mayor Clark, right now.
Ms. Weems, now you weren't going to open it up at the time the item was
presented in the agenda?
Mayor Clark, no. It was on the consent agenda and we don't normally unless I
know before hand that there's going to be some conversation. Unless someone
notifies me that they want to speak. I never disallow someone to come but no
one notified me.
Ms. Weems, and once again you did have reason to believe that there would be
comments or questions or concerns regarding that item, correct?
Mayor Clark, I did not.
Ms. Weems, you did not?
Mayor Clark, I did not.
Ms. Weems, your phone calls to Anna Weems did not indicate that at all?
Mayor Clark, no.
Ms. Weems, you know anyone, anyone can manipulate laws or rules to better their
agendas or personal agendas or political agendas or whatever. That's the easy
thing to do. The difficult thing to do and the challenging thing to do and the
real leadership comes from those who are able to protect the rights of others,
follow the rules, have standards and policies in place and follow rules and
still follow through.
Mayor Clark, I couldn't agree with you more.
Ms. Weems, I'm hoping that is the case. But what is demonstrated here today
doesn't display that. I'm concerned about that you are aware that in your first
couple of meetings this year there was an issue regarding the Human Rights
Commission and the reports that have been requested. To date, well let me go
back for those who may not have been present. At that meeting it was requested
by the public that the number of complaints be reported, the disposition of the
complaints be reported. This is before you took office, you didn't even know
this or maybe you were there. Maybe you were present. The public asked for the
• •
• •
September 7, 2010 Page 17
number of complaints that had been filed, the number of complaints that were
still open, the number of complaints that had been closed, the disposition of
those complaints, and the number of complaints that had been forwarded to the
Iowa Civil Rights Commission or any other agencies such as EEOC. To date that
was put in the minutes and that was a formal request. To date that has not been
produced.
Mayor Clark, I am not aware of that request.
Ms. Weems, I wasn't present at that meeting.
Mayor Clark, which meeting are you talking about?
Ms. Weems, it was a city council meeting. You may not have been present.
Mayor Clark, I don't recall.
Ms. Weems, we'll go back and check the minutes.
Mayor Clark, I will give you two more minutes please.
Ms. Weems, I'm disappointed that. Well I'd hope you give me, would you appoint
special privileges this afternoon or this evening for me to finish my address
since you've already voted on the item? Is there any harm in that? Do you see
any harm in that? In fact, mine is more reportive than a comment. I'd like to
give you some reports.
Mayor Clark, we have a policy.
Ms. Weems, I understand your policy but there is also a policy, and I'm going to
request that policy that ask for certain standards regarding that commission
position.
Mayor Clark, your asking me favors. Your asking me for special privileges.
Ms. Weems, I'm not asking for special favors.
Mayor Clark, it's very clear.
Ms. Weems, well we've had our exchange so let me go ahead and get out my comment
and then I'll -let you go ahead. Why don't you take note of the things I'm
asking for and then you go ahead and follow up when I am finished, please. One,
I am making note of the request that was made in the beginning of the year
regarding the Human Rights Commission. Also, it was presented to the city
council that there were issues with the Human Rights Commission especially with
the employee. There was one specific employee that they have in the Human
Rights Commission, Rebecca Johnson.
Mayor Clark, we are not going to go there.
Ms. Weems, this is in the minutes. It's in the minutes.
Mayor Clark, I don't know that.
Ms. Weems, how can you say that its not when you haven't seen them. You never
understood that there was a concern about the Human Rights Commission? You've
had this discussion with Anna Weems. What I am just saying is that you are
aware and lets not even play dumb, you are aware that .there are concerns about
the Human Rights Commission overall?
Mayor Clark, we are not going to go there Ms. Weems.
Ms. Weems, well let me make a statement.
Mayor Clark, you have two minutes Ms. Weems.
Ms. Weems, There are concerns, well there are others that want to hear me and if
you don't let me finish I can't get it out.
Mayor Clark, that would be fine too. Could you identify who wants to yield
their time to you please? I see one. You have three more minutes please.
Would you please state your name and address please?
Ms. Weems, I will get to that when I get to that. It's more of a report I
believe because now I'm really concerned about this whole process. We're
requesting number one those reports that were requested number one those reports
from the Human Rights Commission if not I just stated them. Two, we are
requesting.
September 7, 2010 Page 18
Mayor Clark, who is we?
Ms. Weems, does it matter? It's someone from this party. I am standing here
requesting it.
Mayor Clark, then could you state your name and address for those that don't
know who you are.
Ms. Weems, well you know who I am.
Mayor Clark, I know who you are but there are others who may not know who you
are.
Ms. Weems, I think everyone here in this council that doesn't know who I am.
Councilperson Cole, I don't know who you are.
Ms. Weems, you know who I am.
Councilperson Cole, no I don't.
Ms. Weems, I don't have to tell you who I am.
Councilperson Cole, the rules of public participation is that you state your
name and address and group affiliation (if appropriate).
Ms. Weems, it just suggests. I don't have to give an organization if I don't
belong to an organization. I'm just a citizen. I've been in this situation
before and it resulted in a threat so I don't have to do that. The next thing
that I am asking for is the policy and procedures surrounding the selection
process with your commissioners' position. Also, we are asking that you know
what given the circumstances. Those are the things that we want to request. I
want to say this in closing, you being a former police officer you ran on the
fact that you were a former police officer and you wanted to reduce crime. I
now after today I understand Chief Trelka the criminal mind and why people are
doing exactly what you are doing. They are trying to substantiate when they
break the rules and don't adhere to policy they too are doing what you are
doing. They try to find a way, well I've done this and I don't know this. They
play the dumb role too. But it's no excuse. That's criminal, its criminal and
we want those things. And we are requesting also the last thing is a formal
investigation of that process of the appointments of the commission we want an
investigation of the employee, the intake employee by the name of Rebecca
Johnson regarding those complaints that were filed between the years 2009 and
2010. And we understand that those are available. And we also understand that
there are complaints prior to those years that are also available. We want
those investigated. If there was an employee in the sanitation department or
any other department for the city there's double standards. Who produced like
or did not produce like that city employee in the Human Rights Commission that
person would not have their job. This is no reflection on the individuals who
won't be served by the Human Rights Commission or by the people you deny being
in that process for the commissioner. It's a reflection on this administration
and the city council. It's a lack of leadership. That is a very concern of
mine, that is a grave concern of mine because once again all of you despite the
fact that you represent specific wards and everything, your specific ward, you
still vote on issues that effect our city. And for you, with the exception of
one person who had the courage to express their concern about this process I am
now concerned that this is a conspiracy to undermine the efforts of this Human
Rights Commission. There is no reason why a person, the founder of a commission
was not considered to become a commissioner for this Human Rights Commission.
So we want the reasoning, we want it substantiated immediately. And if you've
already voted then that should already be available to us. And we should get it
expeditiously so can you tell us when we will be able to receive that?
Mayor Clark, no.
Ms. Weems, are you going to?
Mayor Clark, we will look into it.
Ms. Weems, so what are you going to follow it up with? You'll look into it
when? Your just going to tell us that?
Mayor Clark, yes.
Ms. Weems, are you going to look into it tomorrow?
Mayor Clark, no.
Ms. Weems, and why would that be?
• •
• •
September 7, 2010 .Page 19
Mayor Clark, I will be in Chicago for the next three days.
Ms. Weems, okay then is there someone else that's going to? You have a Mayor
Pro Tem, Mr. Hart can you be looking into this matter?
Mayor Clark, I will take care of this. I will refer it to our legal department,
we will take a look at it, we will look at your allegations.
Ms. Weems, who do you mean we?
Mayor Clark, I will.
Ms. Weems, and when will that happen? When you return from Chicago?
Mayor Clark, yes.
Ms. Weems, and will an investigation be?
Mayor Clark, I will do the investigation.
Ms. Weems, how can you investigate yourself?
Mayor Clark, I am not investigating myself.
Ms. Weems, yes you are. If you are a part of that process, you send out
correspondence. And make cause. How can you investigate yourself?
Mayor Clark, we are up to the five minutes.
Ms. Weems, it should be an independent investigation given the fact that you
have correspondence, haven't you?
Mayor Clark, we will look into this matter.
Ms. Weems, have you not written correspondence regarding this matter? Letters?
Mayor Clark, no I don't believe I have.
Ms. Weems, you've done nothing on the Human Rights Commission?
Mayor Clark, I haven't written any letters regarding this.
Ms. Weems, have you called anyone regarding this?
Mayor Clark, yes.
Ms. Weems, so how will you be able to investigate yourself?
Mayor Clark, we are going to be done and we are not going to argue any further.
Ms. Weems, this is why we are requesting the Department of Justice to come in
because if this is the kind of leadership we have regarding our voice which we
have a right to I'm concerned about the interest of individuals who are going to
various departments such as the police department who may not have a voice. And
that has been a matter of record.
Getty/Welper
that the above oral comments be received and placed on file. Ayes: Six.
Absent: Greenwood. Motion carried.
ADJOURNMENT
135223 - Getty/Welper
that the Council adjourn at 7:06 p.m. Ayes: Six. Absent: Greenwood. Motion
carried.
City Clerk