HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-08/20/2001August 20, 2001
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 Monday, August 20, 2001. Mayor John R. Rooff
in the Chair. Roll Call: Anders, Jordan, Krizek, Murphy, Gronen, Getty, Berry.
Invocation by: Reverend Vicki Pospisil, Calvary United Methodist/Urban Minister.
Pledge of Allegiance: Councilperson Harold Getty.
115717 - Jordan/Murphy
that the Agenda, as amended to add Item 18a, for the Regular Session on Monday,
August 20, 2001, at 5:30 p.m., be accepted and approved. Ayes: Seven. Motion
carried.
115718 - Murphy/Gronen
•
that the Minutes, as proposed, for the Regular Session on Monday, August 13,
2001, at 5:30 p.m. be accepted and approved. Ayes: Seven. Motion carried.
Mayor Rooff read a proclamation declaring August 25, 2001, as Korean War
Veterans Recognition Day.
Mayor Rooff performed swearing in of Police Officers Gregory Kemp and Reggie
Duvel.
ADJOURNED HEARING
115719 - Mayor Rooff stated now was the time to reconvene the adjourned hearing from
August 6, 2001 (see CR 115628) on the request of ASL Investments and John
Brustkern to rezone from "A-1" Agricultural District and "R-3" Multiple
Residence District to "R-2" One and Two Family Residence District 41.5 acres of
property generally located southeast of LaPorte and Dysart Roads for a
residential housing development.
115720 - Mayor Rooff stated he has a list of questions regarding the rezoning request.
In answer to the question what will the tax base be for each lot, Scott Nelson,
101 Crestview and ASL Investments, stated he submitted a packet of information
to everyone last Tuesday answering each question with supporting documents.
Mr. Nelson stated the property will be taxed as real estate, and that he
received an opinion from the Iowa Department of Revenue and Finance that the
modular homes will be assessed and taxed as real estate.
Mayor Rooff asked what the cost of 182 homes would be to the city. Don
Temeyer, City Planner, replied that the normal procedure is that the developer
would be responsible for all costs for street improvements. Mr. Temeyer stated
that the developer has indicated he may ask the city to extend sanitary sewer
to the site. Mr. Temeyer stated that it could cost $67,000 to $75,000 to
extend the sanitary sewer, which could be paid from sewer fees.
Mayor Rooff stated there was a question as to what would be the cost to the
city for the streets and if the developers have to put in landscaping along the
corridor. Mayor Rooff stated there would be snow removal and normal
maintenance costs for the streets. Mr. Temeyer stated that 20 years is usually
the life for a street. Mr. Temeyer stated landscaping along Highway 218 will
require approximately two trees.
In response to the question is "R-1" a possibility, Mr. Temeyer stated that the
developers originally requested a "R-4" Multiple Residence rezoning, and that
the Planning, Programming and Zoning Commission approved a "R-2" One and Two
Family Residence District. Mr. Temeyer stated that the council would have to
set a new date of hearing to rezone the property to "R-1".
In response to the question would the development be a problem for the school
system, Mr. Nelson responded he received a letter from Arlis Swartzendruber,
Superintendent of Waterloo Community Schools, that the School District would
welcome an influx of students, and that approximately 70 students would likely
come from 180 new houses. Mr. Swartzendruber reported in his letter that the
School District would have ample space in the schools for the new students.
In response to the question on water retention, Eric Thorson, City Engineer,
stated that is not required in residential developments, but the developer will
have to prepare a storm water plan to be approved by the city council. Mr.
Thorson stated that the Engineering Department feels the storm water flows
would not significantly increase if the area is changed from agricultural to
residential zoning. Mr. Thorson stated a five year rainfall design for
development of this area is 83.90 cu.ft. per second, which is a 5.4 percent
increase.
August 20, 2001 Page 2
ADJOURNED HEARING CONTINUED
Wendell Lupkes, of Van Winkle -Jacob Engineering, Inc., stated that according to
the information he received from Iowa Northland Regional Council of Governments
they feel the roadways have the capacity to work. Mr. Lupkes stated on April
17 of last year, the City's Traffic Operations installed a new traffic control
cabinet and a left turn only on the green arrow at the intersection.
In answer to the question what if the developer only puts in one street at a
time and then doesn't complete the project, Mr. Nelson replied that the
development will be built in phases and each phase will be self-contained. Mr.
Temeyer stated that the city council will approve the preliminary plat which
will lay out designated streets. Mr. Temeyer stated that happened in the 80s
when some developments were not completed because of the economy, but now they
are building again.
Mr. Nelson stated he has signed a letter agreeing to conditions for the
development as follows: 1) That the land -leased community will contain a
variety of modular homes, or homes of similar design and construction, not
manufactured housing or mobile homes, as presented in the Design Homes, Inc.
pamphlet that was presented at the city council meeting; 2) That the homes
placed within the land -leased community will be oriented so that the fronts of
the homes, or where the front door is located, face the street which is
considered as their front yard; 3) In accordance with "R-2" District Zoning,
the project will not be a mobile home park. Mr. Temeyer stated that the
proposed development would be classified as low density residential.
Mr. Nelson stated that the neighboring developments are either "R-2" or "R-3",
and he does not think it is appropriate to be asked to be the only "R-1" out
there. Mr. Nelson stated he talked to many of the council and answered all
their questions, and the rezoning was tabled for two weeks to allow the council
an opportunity to get information. Mr. Nelson stated that the development will
provide new homes and expand the tax base.
Councilperson Getty stated that Mr. Nelson commented at the hearing two weeks
ago that the cost for a lot with a garage would be around $30,000, and he asked
Mr. Nelson of the lots could be purchased. Mr. Nelson replied not at this
time.
Councilperson Gronen asked if the building inspectors sign off of the
inspection when there is an independent third party. Louis Cutwright, Building
Official, stated that according to state law and HUD, when there is a third
party the Building Department does not go inside, but the foundation is
inspected, a permit is required and the hook up is inspected. Mr. Cutwright
stated that the Building Department will look at the first home and indicate
that the homes must be built to this standard. Mr. Cutwright stated that the
Building Department will look at the set of plans to see if they comply with
the city's code.
Jay Nardini, 5414 Blue Bonnett Drive, read a prepared statement. Mr. Nardini
stated that the council is opening up a Pandora's Box if they approve a land -
lease subdivision. Mr. Nardini stated that there are no land lease
subdivisions in Iowa, and that he could not find one in Linn or Polk Counties.
Mr. Nardini stated he reviewed the Zoning Ordinance and it contains nothing
about land lease except for mobile homes and the reason is it is covered by the
State Code of Iowa. Mr. Nardini reviewed Chapter 14, Section 414.28A, Land -
leased communities, of the Iowa Code. Mr. Nardini stated that Section 414.28A
does not cover modular homes, only manufactured homes. Mr. Nardini stated that
the wiser course of action for the council is to vote the rezoning down. Mr.
Nardini asked if modular homes are allowed in "R-1" or "R-2" developments. Mr.
Nardini stated he feels they should only be allowed in "R-3" or "R-4" because
they are less restrictive. Mr. Nardini stated this development has more in
common with a mobile home park. Mr. Nardini asked if the development should be
required to have basements and what about green space. Mr. Nardini asked if we
should supply snow removal, storm water system, etc. in a land -leased
community. Mr. Nardini asked why would anyone pay $60,000 to $80,000 for the
home, pay lot rent and full taxes on the home. Mr. Nardini stated that no
reasonable person would want to locate in this development. Mr. Nardini asked
what would stop the developer from raising the lease. Mr. Nardini stated the
residents in the area are reasonable people, and they do not live in a gated
community. Mr. Nardini stated they knew what was out there, they like the
rural setting and quality of life. Mr. Nardini stated the residents oppose the
rezoning for many reasons, and it is not about modular homes vs. mobile homes.
Mr. Nardini stated that 60 foot lots were standard 60 years ago, and that no
one moves td the country for 60 foot lots, that people want space. Mr. Nardini
stated let's raise the bar instead of lowering it. Mr. Nardini stated the
residents are not just a bunch of people complaining, and that he does not feel
this is a good idea. Mr. Nardini urged the council to vote the proposal down,
and that they expect a no vote tonight.
August 20, 2001
• •
ADJOURNED HEARING CONTINUED
Page 3
Roger Kalsem, 427 Belle Street, stated that there is not a single person who
understands this development, that it is far ahead of us. Mr. Kalsem stated he
called Design Homes at Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin and asked what is a slab
foundation, and they explained slab footings and slab foundations. Mr. Kalsem
stated he asked Design Homes about slab foundations on modular homes, and they
do not recommend it. Mr. Kalsem stated Mr. Nelson deceived us regarding land -
lease arrangements, slab foundations and also tax revenue. Mr. Kalsem stated
he did not come up $400,000 in tax revenue using $70,000 per house (with no
homestead). At $23.00 per $1,000 it comes to $17,000 per house and $8,000 per
lot, which is $310,000 tax revenue at best. Mr. Kalsem stated Waterloo does
not need any more fiascoes like Grey Hound Park, the downtown ramp and the Five
Sullivan Brothers Convention Center. Mr. Kalsem stated we need to rethink
this.
Tom Burns, 5828 Cimmarron Lane, stated that he previously earned a living
financing homes, and that there is a difference between rental property and a
home. Mr. Burns stated that the key is tying the home to the ground, which the
developers are not doing. Mr. Burns stated these are not home owners, these
are renters. Mr. Burns asked what would happened if the home is repossessed.
Mr. Burns stated this is not real estate.
John Humpal, 5222 Dysart Road, submitted a petition with over 200 signatures
against the rezoning request. Mr. Humpal stated he went to Des Moines and did
not find any subdivision like this one. At the Planning and Zoning Commission
it was mentioned where to find one in Marion, but it is a mobile home park.
Mr. Humpal stated two weeks ago Mr. Nelson reported there was one in Polk
County and one in Linn County. Mr. Humpal stated there are none in these
counties or anywhere in Iowa. Mr. Humpal stated that this typical land use is
in mobile parks. Mr. Humpal stated that Mr. Nelson was quoted in yesterday's
paper as saying these will look like the homes in Southdale and Westdale, but
they won't as these lots are 40 percent smaller. Mr. Humpal stated he is not
against developing but is interested in shaping our community. Mr. Humpal
asked if the council was willing to let this property be a guinea pig for
someone else's experiment.
The resident at 1407 Belle Street stated that he is currently building a house
by Orange School, and this development will not meet the requirements he had to
meet. He stated we should set our sights higher. He stated we all agree
Waterloo needs home, but lets not be guinea pig for these types of homes.
Dan Koch, 2808 Cimmarron Lane, passed out copies of Sections 414.28A, 435.1 and
435.22 of the Iowa Code regarding land -lease communities. Mr. Koch stated ASL
Investments wants to rezone "R-2" under Section 414.28A, but no where is the
word modular used, only term used is manufactured homes.
Rita Keifer-Humpal, 5222 Dysart Road, submitted an additional petition with
signatures opposing the rezoning. Ms. Humpal stated the CSR rating for this
property is 90, that this is prime farm land. Ms. Humpal stated she challenges
the figures from the City Engineer on the water shed. Ms. Humpal stated you
need 20 to 30 percent of undeveloped space to accurately develop a site. Ms.
Humpal stated this land is currently a hog field and it returns the water very
well. Ms. Humpal stated she feels this high density development will run a lot
more water." Ms. Humpal stated she is not opposed to new development, but she
expects the city to promote development that will enhance our community. Ms.
Humpal asked the council to step up to the plate and stop sending water to our
neighbors. Ms. Humpal stated she feels the residents' quality of life is being
compromised. Ms. Humpal asked why do we compare new developments with the 50s
and 60s as these are new times. Ms. Humpal asked the council not to put them
in an area where they are unwanted. Ms. Humpal asked what kind of jobs will
these homes attract. Ms. Humpal stated we need to set higher expectations. Ms
Humpal commented that in the May 18, 2000 Courier we were told we really need
homes in the $125,000 range, that is what the study showed. Ms. Humpal stated
the city council is elected by the majority, and it is their job to look out
for the majority.
Mr. Nelson stated that the developer will put in concrete foundations with a
crawl space. Mayor Rooff stated that the $400,000 tax figure has come from the
County Assessor.
Jim Walsh, City Attorney, stated that the sections of the Iowa Code quoted
earlier are somewhat confusing, and that he interprets the code that the
modular home will be subject to taxes as any home. Mr. Walsh stated Mr. Nelson
will be taxed on the lot and the homeowner will be taxed on the home as a
residential subdivision. Mr. Walsh stated this has not been addressed in Iowa
law when these homes are on a fixed place. Mr. Walsh stated that we do not
have an ordinance or statutory law which deals with this type of development.
August 20, 2001
Page 4
ADJOURNED HEARING CONTINUED
Mr. Nelson stated he keeps hearing about the farm land when ultimately Mr.
Brustkern wants to sell this farm, and that it is his right to sell the farm.
Councilperson Anders asked Mr. Nelson about his reference to Marion, Ankeny and
West Des Moines. Mr. Nelson stated that is where the developers got the idea,
but it is not the same. Mr. Nelson stated he apologizes to the people here if
the developers have come up with an unique idea. Mr. Nelson stated it is very
well defined what they want to do.
Councilperson Berry asked Mr. Nelson if he would consider selling the lots or
if it is just strictly leasing. Mr. Nelson responded that is not what they
want to do or the way they designed it. Mr. Nelson stated that the contractual
relationship will include a long-term land lease.
Councilperson Jordan stated it sounds like the homeowners will have three
payments. The homeowner will make the loan payment, taxes, lease and
utilities, which could costs $1,200 per month on a $80,000 home. Mr. Nelson
responded they will have to pay taxes no matter where they live, and he is
looking at two income families. Mr. Nelson stated that yes he will make money
on the development.
Councilperson Krizek asked how the financing will be arranged and if the banks
and Fannie Mae are opened to this. Mr. Nelson responded this is a little
different from the traditional loan because of the land lease which has to
encompass the life of the contract. Mr. Nelson stated he does not know if
Fannie Mae is interested, but that some banks have expressed an interest. Mr.
Nelson stated the developers still have things to do, that this is just the
first hurdle.
A resident asked how will they resell the property if someone moves, will it
appreciate or depreciate. He asked how will they get their money back.
Councilperson Jordan asked if they do the development in phases and if the
economy slows down is the city responsible to take care of it. Mr. Temeyer
stated that it has been past practice that once the streets are built to city
standards, the city accepts the streets and takes over maintenance of the
street.
Councilperson Anders stated that financing is not an issue that should come up
at this hearing, that if Mr. Nelson gets an affirmative vote, it is his problem
not the city council's problem. How he finances the development is up to him
and not the council. Councilperson Anders stated that regarding the question
why would a person buy a home and lease the lot, if Mr. Nelson wants to do this
and people want to it is up to the public if that is what they want to do.
Councilperson Anders stated that if Mr. Nelson finds customers more power to
him.
Councilperson Gronen stated he has a relative who purchased a home like this in
1978, and that he met with neighborhood resistance, but the home looks like a
stick build home. Councilperson Gronen stated he has a daughter who is
purchasing a condominium in Chicago, she does not own the land, but makes
payment on the condominium and a payment to the Association. Councilperson
Gronen stated he is concerned with the "not in my back yard" attitude that all
of us can have when we perceive something affects our quality of life.
Getty/Murphy
that the hearing be closed and recommendation of approval of the Planning,
Programming and Zoning Commission, petitions of opposition and oral and written
comments be received and placed on file. Ayes: Seven. Motion carried.
115721 - Krizek/Murphy
that "an Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2479, as amended, City Zoning
Ordinance, by adding Subsection No. 327 to Section 2A-5, Rezoning Certain
Property", be received, placed on file, considered and passed for the first
time. Ayes: Six. Nays: Jordan. Motion carried.
115722 - Anders/Krizek
`4
that rules requiring ordinances to be considered and voted for passage at two
prior meetings be suspended. Ayes: Six. Nays: Jordan. Motion carried.
•
August 20, 2001
• •
ADJOURNED HEARING CONTINUED
115723 - Anders/Gronen
Page 5
that "an Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2479, as amended, City Zoning
Ordinance, by adding Subsection No. 327 to Section 2A-5, Rezoning Certain
Property", be considered and passed for the second and third times and adopted.
Ayes: Six. Nays: Jordan.
Ordinance adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 4498.
HEARINGS
115724 - Krizek/Anders
that proof of publication of notice of public hearing on proposed revisions to
ward and precinct boundaries, as published in the Waterloo Courier on August 8,
2001, be received and placed on file. Ayes: Seven. Motion carried.
115725 - This being the time and place of public hearing, the Mayor called for written
and oral objections and there were none.
Jordan/Krizek
that the hearing be closed and oral and written comments be received and placed
on file. Ayes: Seven. Motion carried.
115726 - Jordan/Anders
that "an Ordinance revising ward and precinct boundaries", be received, placed
on file, considered and passed for the first time. Ayes: Seven. Motion
carried.
115727 - Murphy/Gronen
that rules requiring ordinances to be considered and voted for passage at two
prior meetings be suspended. Ayes: Seven. Motion carried.
115728 - Krizek/Jordan
that "an Ordinance revising ward and precinct boundaries", be considered and
passed for the second time. Ayes: Seven. Motion carried.
PETITIONS FROM PUBLIC
115729 - Berry/Jordan
that communication from Acting Fire Chief transmitting request to hold annual
Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Boot Block Drive on August 31, 2001, from
2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., September 1-2, 2001, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at
the intersections of LaPorte Road and San Marnan Drive, Kimball and Ridgeway
Avenues, Ansborough Avenue and Black Hawk Road and Franklin and East 1St Streets
and on September 3, 2001, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the intersection of
San Marnan Drive and LaPorte Road, be received, placed on file and "Resolution
approving said request", be adopted. Ayes: Seven.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2001-445.
115730 - Berry/Jordan
that communication from City Engineer transmitting request of Michael M. Keys
for a waiver for an asphalt driveway to be located at 1525 Huntington Road,
together with recommendation of approval, be received, placed on file and
"Resolution approving said request", be adopted. Ayes: Seven.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2001-446.
115731 - Berry/Jordan
that communication from City Engineer transmitting request of Jeanette Gibson
for a waiver for an asphalt driveway to be located at 251 Four Seasons Drive,
together with recommendation of approval, be received, placed on file and
"Resolution approving said request", be adopted. Ayes: Seven.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2001-447.
August 20, 2001
PETITIONS FROM PUBLIC CONTINUED
Page 6
115732 - Berry/Jordan
that communication from City Engineer transmitting request of Patricia Shafer
for a waiver for an asphalt driveway to be located at 1435 Huntington Road,
together with recommendation of approval, be received, placed on file and
"Resolution approving said request", be adopted. Ayes: Seven.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2001-448.
DOCUMENTS
115733 - Berry/Jordan
that communication from Assistant City Engineer transmitting construction plans
for paving the extension of the 1500 block of Hyperion Drive, as submitted by
Hall and Hall Engineers, Inc. of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, together with
recommendation of approval, be received, placed on file and "Resolution
approving said construction plans", be adopted. Ayes: Seven.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2001-449.
115734 - Berry/Jordan
that communication from Associate Planner transmitting application for Chad
Coffin for tax exemptions on improvements totaling $9,800.00 for property
located at 816 Bishop Avenue in the Consolidated Urban Revitalization Area
Plan, together with recommendation of approval, be received, placed on file and
"Resolution approving said application", be adopted and City Clerk instructed
to forward same to County Assessor. Ayes: Seven.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2001-450.
115735 - Berry/Jordan
that communication from Senior Planner transmitting Indemnity Agreement with
Young Development Co., LC, to hold the city harmless from damages resulting in
conjunction with construction of property generally located at 4416 Reflection
Lane, be received, placed on file and "Resolution approving said agreement", be
adopted and Mayor and City Clerk authorized to execute same. Ayes: Seven.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2001-451.
115736 - Berry/Jordan
that "Resolution approving acquisition contract with Union Planters Bank to
acquire property generally described as 910 Sycamore Street in the amount of
$185,000 in conjunction with the Iowa Brownfields Acquisition project for
riverfront housing along the Cedar River", be adopted and Mayor and City Clerk
authorized to execute same. Ayes: Seven.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2001-452.
115737 - Berry/Jordan
that communication from Assistant City Planner transmitting Hazard Mitigation
Grant Application with the Federal Emergency Management Agency for funding in
the amount of $250,000.00 in conjunction with the Acquisition/Relocation of
Litzkow Salvage Operation be received, placed on file and "Resolution approving
said grant application", be adopted and Mayor authorized to execute same.
Ayes: Seven.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2001-453.
RESOLUTIONS TO BE ADOPTED
115738 - Gronen/Murphy
that "Resolution authorizing allocation of $1,500.00 Hotel/Motel discretionary
tax funds to the third annual Reickert Pleasure Celebration Horse Show at the
National Cattle Congress", be adopted. Ayes: Seven.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2001-454.
• •
August 20, 2001
ORDINANCES TO BE ADOPTED
115739 - Getty/Murphy
Page 7
that "an Ordinance adding Subsection B3 to Section 5-2-6, Discharging Weapons,
of Chapter 2, General Offenses, of Title 5, Police Regulations, of the 2001
Code of Ordinances of the City of Waterloo, Iowa (allow Health Department
technicians to utilize pellet rifle to control burrowing animals on flood dike
system from May 1St through October 13t)", be considered and passed for the third
time and adopted. Ayes: Five. Nays: Anders, Berry.
Ordinance adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 4499.
115740 - Krizek/Jordan
that "an Ordinance amending the 2000 Traffic Code by adding Subsections (15a)
Conger Street and (40a) Newell Street to Section 582, Truck Traffic Prohibited
on Certain Streets (embargo trucks on Conger Street from River Road to Highway
63 and on Newell Street from Highway 63 to Northeast Drive)", be received,
placed on file, considered and passed for the first time.
Prior to a vote on the above motion, the following comments were heard.
Councilperson Berry stated she is comfortable with embargoing Newell Street
just to Northeast Drive rather than North Elk Run Road as it is past the
residents on Bishop. Councilperson Berry stated this would be fair to the
neighbors and the trucks.
Councilperson Anders stated that he traveled Newell Street from Elk Run Road to
Sans Souci and encountered eight trucks, that just as the neighbors said there
are a lot of trucks.
A representative from Ryder Integrated Logistics stated that they are opposed
to any embargo on Newell and Conger Streets. He asked the council to table
action on the ordinance until another traffic count is taken. He stated his
company has diverted all but one run to Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.
Sandie Greco, Superintendent of Traffic Operations, stated that a traffic count
was taken on August 6 and August 9, 2001 from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., 11:00
a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
A representative from Ryder Integrated Logistics stated that they have worked
with Warren Transport drivers to avoid Conger and Newell Streets except for one
run. He stated that this adds about 25 percent more time on time sensitive
runs. He stated he would like to see these streets open because of traffic,
weather, etc. He stated that when you travel from Westfield to East Donald
Street, using Martin Luther King Jr. Drive instead of Newell Street adds about
15 more minutes each way. He stated that the design of Martin Luther King Jr.
Drive to Franklin Street to Highway 63 has very tight turns and trucks will
have to wait until cars move. He stated the increase in number of traffic
signals adds 15 minutes. He stated that some suppliers for John Deere could be
affected as they have to get to certain suppliers. He stated that he is
working with the city to do a formal letter showing alternate routes for
drivers. He stated there needs to be larger turn lanes on Franklin and Martin
Luther King, Jr. Drive, Sixth Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and
Commercial and First Streets. He stated he understands the residents wanting
to keep trucks out of the area, but he would like it open or at least
supplemental routes.
Mike Zierath, of Warren Transport, stated that his company opposes any embargo
on Conger or Newell Streets. Mr. Zierath stated the embargo will force drivers
on more congested areas. Mr. Zierath stated that alternate routes are not
viable routes as Franklin Street is heavily traveled, and it is hard to get
around the corner. Mr. Zierath asked the council to keep the roads as they are
to keep the trucks out of heavy traffic areas. Mr. Zierath stated that the
embargo will decrease production of the trucks by 25 percent. Mr. Zierath
stated Warren Transport recently reduced the number of trucks that serve Deeres
from 22 to 17. Mr. Zierath stated that the downtown area will have to absorb
additional traffic, and the embargo will add approximately 25 percent more in
fuel consumption. Mr. Zierath stated costs will increase if trucks have to go
outside of the city. Mr. Zierath stated that Elk Run Road was still closed for
resurfacing during the dates the traffic count was done which increased truck
traffic. Mr. Zierath stated he is okay with using Martin Luther King Jr.
Drive, but not in favor of closing Newell Street to truck traffic. Mr. Zierath
stated that it is not always feasible to go out and around to Martin Luther
King Jr. Drive. Mr. Zierath stated that local suppliers are not the only ones
using these streets, and that many come from great distances. Mr. Zierath
asked the council not to do the embargo to allow access to the businesses, and
that it is unacceptable to some business owners in the area. Mr. Zierath asked
how we, as a community, are going to generate interest in the Northeast
Industrial Site with only one access. Mr. Zierath stated that Wonder Bread
just moved out there, and he is not sure how they will access their building.
August 20, 2001
Page 8
ORDINANCES TO BE ADOPTED CONTINUED
Mr. Andrews, of Warren Transport, stated that they have used these streets for
20 years. Mr. Andrews stated that if the council embargoes Newell and Conger
Streets, the trucks will travel Franklin Street, Fifth Street, Sixth Street and
go by City Hall where there will be pedestrians, and that is a real safety
factor. Mr. Andrews stated using Martin Luther King will be twice the distance
then coming across Newell and Conger Streets and their costs will double. Mr.
Andrews asked the council not to close Newell and Conger Streets to truck
traffic. In addition, Mr. Andrews stated the city will have to plow two
different areas with this embargo. Mr. Andrews asked that the city do another
traffic count.
Councilperson Berry stated she has concerns for the businesses and residents,
but we know there is a truck situation on Newell Street. Councilperson Berry
stated there are over 250 trucks going down Newell Street daily, damaging the
homes. Councilperson Berry stated that Newell Street will have a lot of
children with school starting again. Councilperson Berry stated that it was
her understanding that when Martin Luther King Jr. Drive opened this was going
to be the route for the trucks, and that Martin Luther King Jr. Drive was
constructed for this purpose.
Carl Adrian, Executive Director of the Cedar Valley Economic Development
Corporation, stated they have concerns for existing businesses and also how
they will market that area in the future. Mr. Adrian stated that limiting
access will make it hard to market the northeast part of the city. Mr. Adrian
urged the council to leave Newell Street open, take new traffic counts and
table the ordinance until the council has new information. Mr. Adrian stated
he believes this will just push traffic to a new location, and the city should
look at long-term solutions.
Clayton Fisk, of Warren Transport, stated that Warren Transport serve many
businesses, and Newell Street serves as a direct link between Northeast
Industrial area and other businesses. Mr. Fisk stated that Warren Transport
put their facility there because they were assured we would always have that
access. Mr. Fisk stated this will be detrimental to their business, will
increase fuel costs, tires, emission and reduce efficiency. Mr. Fisk stated
his company is concerned about safety as is the city council. Mr. Fisk read a
written statement to the council. Mr. Fisk asked the council to weigh all the
ramifications with safety at the top.
Mayor Rooff stated that the city is trying to make residents' life a little
more enjoyable, and we have to determine what to do to help them. Mayor Rooff
stated that we are hearing tonight that we need to keep Newell Street open, and
we are also hearing that a lot of trucks could be re-routed to Martin Luther
King Jr. Drive.
Councilperson Gronen stated he is sympathetic to the residents as he lives near
Conger Street and hears the trucks. Councilperson Gronen stated he also
sympathizes with the businesses because he knows businesses make cities grow.
Councilperson Gronen stated he would like to table the ordinance for two weeks,
and he would like to ride with drivers and work on an alternate route.
Eric Thorson, City Engineer, stated that Black Hawk County was doing an overlay
project out there and also on Donald Street east of North Elk Run Road, but
they just finished that project last week. Mr. Thorson stated that the city
might want to take another traffic count.
Councilperson Berry asked if businesses were informed that when Martin Luther
King Jr. Drive opened it would be the new truck route. Don Temeyer, City
Planner, stated that three weeks ago he talked to businesses to develop a new
route, and the city is working with Ryder Integrated Logistics and IBP to
develop new rider orders to get trucks off of Newell Street.
Councilperson Berry stated she would recommend the council pass the ordinance
for the first time to give the council time to look at the routes.
Councilperson Berry stated she believes this is something the city must
seriously consider. Mr. Thorson stated he will have a map for the council by
tomorrow. Councilperson Berry agreed to table the ordinance for two weeks.
With approval of the mover and seconder, the above motion was withdrawn.
Jordan/Getty
that "an Ordinance amending the 2000 Traffic Code by adding Subsections (15a)
Conger Street and (40a) Newell Street to Section 582, Truck Traffic Prohibited
on Certain Streets (embargo trucks on Conger Street from River Road to Highway
63 and on Newell Street from Highway 63 to Northeast Drive)", be tabled to
September 4, 2001. Ayes: Seven. Motion carried.
•
August 20, 2001
ORDINANCES TO BE ADOPTED CONTINUED
115741 - Jordan/Krizek
•
Page 9
that "an Ordinance amending the 2000 Traffic Code by adding Subsection (135a)
Kimball Avenue and Mitchell Avenue to Section 540, Obedience to Official
Traffic -Control Devices; and by repealing Subsection (39) Kimball Avenue of
Section 541, Increasing Speed Limits in Certain Areas; and enacting in lieu
thereof a new (39) Kimball Avenue of Section 541, Increasing Speed Limits in
Certain Areas (installation of traffic signal at the intersection of Kimball
Avenue and Mitchell Avenue and changing speed limit on Kimball Avenue between
Carolina Avenue and Bourland Avenue from 30 mph to 25 mph)", be received,
placed on file, considered and passed for the fist time. Ayes: Seven. Motion
carried.
115742 - Anders/Berry
that rules requiring ordinances to be considered and voted for passage at two
prior meetings be suspended. Ayes: Seven. Motion carried.
115743 - Berry/Jordan
that "an Ordinance amending the 2000 Traffic Code by adding Subsection (135a)
Kimball Avenue and Mitchell Avenue to Section 540, Obedience to Official
Traffic -Control Devices; and by repealing Subsection (39) Kimball Avenue of
Section 541, Increasing Speed Limits in Certain Areas; and enacting in lieu
thereof a new (39) Kimball Avenue of Section 541, Increasing Speed Limits in
Certain Areas (installation of traffic signal at the intersection of Kimball
Avenue and Mitchell Avenue and changing speed limit on Kimball Avenue between
Carolina Avenue and Bourland Avenue from 30 mph to 25 mph)", be considered and
passed for the second and third times and adopted. Ayes: Seven.
Ordinance adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 4500.
BILLS PAYMENT
115744 - Krizek
that "Resolution approving Schedule AP640, pp. 1-86, dated August 20, 2001, in
the amount of $1,160,043.43, a copy of which is on file in the City Clerk's
Office", be adopted, together with recommendation of approval of the Finance
Committee. Ayes: Seven.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2001-455.
NEW BUSINESS
115745 - Berry/Getty
to instruct Leisure Services Director to prepare plans, specifications, form of
contract, etc. in conjunction with Furgerson-Fields Restroom Project, be
received, placed on file and approved. Ayes: Seven. Motion carried.
115746 - Jordan/Anders
that plans, specifications, form of contract, etc. in conjunction with
Furgerson-Fields Restroom Project, be received and placed on file. Ayes:
Seven. Motion carried.
115747 - Murphy/Gronen
that "Resolution preliminarily approving plans, specifications, form of
contract, etc. in conjunction with above described project", be adopted. Ayes:
Seven.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2001-456.
115748 - Getty/Berry
that "Resolution setting date of hearing on plans, specifications, form of
contract, etc. as September 10, 2001, at 5:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council
Chambers and taking of bids on the above described project", be adopted and
City Clerk instructed to publish notice of same. Ayes: Seven.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2001-457.
August 20, 2001 Page 10
NEW BUSINESS CONTINUED
115749 - Berry/Getty
to instruct Leisure Services Director to prepare plans, specifications, form of
contract, etc. in conjunction with 2001 Golf Course Restroom/Shelter Project,
be received, placed on file and approved. Ayes: Seven. Motion carried.
115750 - Jordan/Anders
that plans, specifications, form of contract, etc. in conjunction with 2001
Golf Course Restroom/Shelter Project, be received and placed on file. Ayes:
Seven. Motion carried.
115751 - Murphy/Gronen
that "Resolution preliminarily approving plans, specifications, form of
contract, etc. in conjunction with above described project", be adopted. Ayes:
Seven.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2001-458.
115752 - Getty/Berry
that "Resolution setting date of hearing on plans, specifications, form of
contract, etc. as September 17, 2001, at 5:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council
Chambers and taking of bids on the above described project", be adopted and
City Clerk instructed to publish notice of same. Ayes: Seven.
Resolution adopted and upon approval by Mayor assigned No. 2001-459.
115753 - Getty/Jordan
that communication from Mayor Rooff transmitting recommendation of appointment
of the following to the Leisure Service Commission: Josef Fox and John
Delorbe, with term expiration date of March 1, 2004; and reappointment of Bob
Molinaro, with term expiration date of March 1, 2004, be received, placed on
filed and approved. Ayes: Seven. Motion carried.
TRAVEL REQUESTS
115754 - Krizek/Jordan
that the following travel requests, with expenses not to exceed amount shown,
be received, placed on file and approved:
1. Andrew Clark and Gregory Fangman, Police Officers, to attend Standardized
Field Sobriety Testing Instructor School in Johnston, Iowa, on August 20-
23, 2001, with costs not to exceed $219.10, including use of city vehicle.
2. Cammie Scully, Cultural and Arts Director, to meet with Director of DCA and
CJ to secure funding for Folklife Festival and to meet with IAC staff
regarding operating grant in Des Moines, Iowa, on August 21-22, 2001, with
costs not to exceed $135.00.
Ayes: Seven. Motion carried.
MISCELLANEOUS
115755 - Getty/Jordan
that the following fireworks display permits be received, placed on file and
approved:
1. Application for Fireworks Display
VGM Group, 1111 West San Marnan Drive on September 7, 2001.
Lost Island Water Park, 2225 East Shaulis Road on August 18, 2001.
Ayes: Seven. Motion carried.
ADJOURNMENT
115756 - Jordan/Berry
that the Council adjourn at 8:10 p.m. Ayes: Seven. Motion carried.
fckliaL
Nancy ckert
• City Clerk •