HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Packet - 2/15/2021 COUNCIL WORK SESSION
February 15, 2021
Time indicated below
Meeting will be held virtually via Zoom. Visit
https-//cityofwaterlooiowa.com/register and register to receive the Zoom meeting
information. Please contact the City Clerk's Office at 319-291-4323 with
questions.
ELECTRONIC CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
At this time, all meetings of the Waterloo City Council will be electronic because
meeting in person is impossible or impractical due to the spread of COVID-19. Iowa
Code Section 21.8, Governor Reynolds' Disaster Emergency Proclamations allow
cities to hold electronic meetings and Mayor Hart has issued Civil Emergency
Proclamations calling for electronic meetings. Electronic meetings will be held utilizing
Zoom video conferencing. Zoom meeting information is available on the city website
at https://cityofwaterlooiowa.com/register. You may also call the City Clerk's Office at
319-291-4323 or email clerks@waterloo-ia.org to receive the meeting information.
Individuals speaking during the electronic regular session or planning session meetings
are required to follow the rules for public participation.
RULES FOR WORK SESSION PUBLIC COMMENT
Iowa Code Chapter 21 gives the public the right to attend council meetings, but it
does not require cities to allow public participation except during public hearings. The
city council shall not receive any public comment during a work session.
Roll Call
Agenda, as proposed or amended
Approval of Minutes
Minutes of February 1, 2021, as proposed.
3:25 p.m. Discussion of downtown bridge construction projects.
Submitted By:Jamie Knutson,PE,City Engineer
Approx. Discussion of the FYE2022 budget.
4:10 p.m.
Submitted By:Michelle Weidner,Chief Financial Officer
Approx. Discussion of the FYE 2021 financial audit.
4:40 p.m.
Submitted By:Michelle Weidner,Chief Financial Officer
ADJOURNMENT
Kelley Felchle
City Clerk
CITY OF WATERLOO
Council Communication
Minutes of February 1, 2021, as proposed.
City Council Meeting:2/15/2021
Prepared:
REVIEWERS:
Department Reviewer Action Date
Clerk Office Higby, Nancy Approved 2/5/2021 - 3:46 PM
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type
❑ Minutes of February 1, 2021 Backup Material
SUBJECT: Minutes of February 1, 2021, as proposed.
Submitted by:
Recommended Action:
Summary Statement:
Expenditure Required:
Source of Funds:
Policy Issue:
Alternative:
Background Information:
COUNCIL WORK SESSION
February 1, 2021
4:10 p.m.
Meeting was held via Zoom.
Members present: Boesen, Amos, Morrissey, Klein, Feuss, Grieder, and Juon.
159448 -Juon/Grieder
that the Agenda, as proposed, be approved. Voice-vote Ayes: Seven. Motion carried.
159449 -Juon/Grieder
that the Minutes, as proposed, for the CIP Meetings on January 11-13, 2021, and Work Session
on January 19, 2021, be approved. Voice-vote Ayes: Seven. Motion carried.
Objective: Discussion of purchasing cameras,tasers, and a digital evidence management system
for the Police Department.
Chief Fitzgerald provided an overview of Axon, a software and equipment company, and
explained that 6,000 agencies across the United States are utilizing their product. He explained
that Axon was selected because they provide technology that automatically switches on body
worn cameras once the officer leaves the vehicle. The software then provides a cloud-based
evidence workflow that makes it easier to get the information to the station, an attorney's office,
or the media faster. The recommendation is to also upgrade to a Taser 7 product. Axon has
virtual reality training as well. Virtual reality learning has shown to have a higher knowledge
retention rate than lecture-style learning. Training scenarios include empathy, tactical, officer
preparedness, and officer coping and allows the officers to make mistakes and learn during
training rather than on the street. Training would occur on a monthly basis,will provide analytics
for targeted improvement, and the training integrates with the Axon platform. The body worn
cameras will have embedded GPS, precision audio, a lighter and more secure mount, longer
battery life and be easy to operate. The Axon platform also offers the ability to complete
reporting from the vehicle rather than come into the station to finish a report. Chief Fitzgerald
then reviewed the cost and funding sources for purchasing.
Mr.Boesen questioned why the power point in the packet is different from the numbers presented
at the work session tonight.
Joel Fitzgerald explained that he was able to work with Dean Cunningham at Axon to help bring
the figures down.
Mr. Boesen commented that CIP funding was requested in part to help purchase new Tasers and
body cameras.
Joel Fitzgerald commented that if this purchase is approved, the department will not be needing
the figures from the CIP.
Mr. Boesen questioned if CIP money would be used to pay for the first year, since the new
cameras are not yet installed.
Joel Fitzgerald commented that the cameras are in the process of being installed and that they
will begin establishing a larger revenue stream.
Mr.Boesen shared his concern that the state legislature continually looks to ban red light cameras
in Iowa. He questioned how the program would be paid for without the traffic camera revenue.
Joel Fitzgerald commented that these requests are a need and they need to be paid for one way
or another.
Mr. Boesen questioned if the virtual reality training is an additional cost.
Page 2
Joel Fitzgerald commented that it is included in the cost. He added that the company is taking
one million dollars off what the program would cost.
Mr. Boesen questioned if the equipment for the virtual reality training was included as well.
Joel Fitzgerald confirmed.
Mrs.Juon questioned how much money the virtual reality training would save the city each year.
Joel Fitzgerald commented that it adds a degree of flexibility but that it would not create costs
savings because the training budget is very small. He added that the department should have a
separate line item for police academy training because that step in onboarding eats up a
significant portion of the departments funds.
Mr. Grieder questioned if the dictation tool is effective, meaning, will it capture the correct
words.
Dean Cunningham, Axon, commented that the dictation is built on an artificial intelligence
platform, similar to Alexa. It currently has a 90 percent accuracy rate but does improve with
use.
Mr. Grieder added that he wants the city to be aware of the fact that we one bill away from the
state legislature taking away some of our revenue sources.
Joel Fitzgerald commented that the city is so far behind from a technology standpoint because it
continues to purchase insufficient products and peace meal equipment.
Mr. Amos commented that he too is concerned with the revenue being generated from GATSO.
When the program started,it was pitched to the community that the traffic cameras are for safety.
Now he is hearing that we are doubling the number of cameras and is concerned how the citizens
will view the city using these funds for Tasers, etc.
Joel Fitzgerald explained that the equipment purchase and traffic cameras are all for public
safety, both citizens and officers.
Mr. Amos commented that he wants to ensure that the city is approaching this from a safety
standpoint.
Joel Fitzgerald added that the state has oversight on camera placement and ensures that traffic
crash data supports their placement.
Mrs. Klein commented that she supports the GATSO cameras as it lessens interaction with an
actual officer and keeps people from panicking or running.
Mr. Morrissey asked for input from our Chief Financial Officer on the comparison of this
proposal versus if we were to keep the current system in place, and if the she believes that this
is doable and that GATSO funds should be used for this or if bonds would be more appropriate.
Michelle Weidner, Chief Financial Officer, commented that she would need to do some research
on the numbers provided today but that she would look into Mr. Morrissey's questions.
Mr. Morrissey questioned what types of interferences can impact the technology and how are
the body and in-car camera systems activated and what is the error rate on that type of activation.
He asked from a human rights perspective, how soon after an incident occurs would citizens or
attorneys have access to the recordings. He questioned if body cameras could be shared and
where the funds came from to purchase the additional 10-12 GATSO cameras.
Page 3
Joel Fitzgerald explained that there is no cost associated to put up additional cameras, and stated
that individuals can request footage through an open records request, which must be fulfilled
within ten days.
Mr. Morrissey questioned how redactions work.
Joel Fitzgerald explained that an un-redacted version is retained.
Dean Cunningham, Axon, explained how the automated redaction system works.
Mr. Morrissey questioned the error or reliability rate for the software.
Joel Fitzgerald commented that currently the city is working on human error not to be present
and explained that they do monthly audits to ensure that officers are turning on their cameras
and the amount of time it takes them to turn it on. This software would help to automate the
audit process and remove the human error from turning on the body worn camera.
Dean Cunningham explained that the signal-based technology uses Bluetooth activation on the
holster and the Taser to turn on any Axon cameras in the area. He further explained how priority
video works, and that by adding a particular word or phrase into the program, it brings specific
videos to the top of the list for supervisors to review saving time on reviewing random traffic
stops, etc.
Mr. Morrissey questioned what activates the software.
Dean Cunningham provided an overview of the software activation.
Mayor Hart questioned how this helps build up trust and accountability with the community.
Joel Fitzgerald commented that this keeps everyone on the up and up with every encounter the
officers have with the public.
159450 -Juon/Feuss
that the meeting be adjourned at 5:12 p.m. Voice-vote Ayes: Seven. Motion carried.
Kelley Felchle
City Clerk
CITY OF WATERLOO
Council Communication
Discussion of downtown bridge construction projects.
City Council Meeting:2/15/2021
Prepared:2/3/2021
REVIEWERS:
Department Reviewer Action Date
Engineering Felchle, Kelley Approved 2/3/2021 - 12:22 PM
SUBJECT: Discussion of downtown bridge construction projects.
Submitted by: Submitted By: Jamie Knutson, PE, City Engineer
Recommended Action:
Summary Statement:
Expenditure Required:
Source of Funds:
Policy Issue:
Alternative:
Background Information:
CITY OF WATERLOO
Council Communication
Discussion of the FYE2022 budget.
City Council Meeting:2/15/2021
Prepared:2/3/2021
REVIEWERS:
Department Reviewer Action Date
Finance Felchle, Kelley Approved 2/3/2021 - 12:23 PM
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type
U FYE2022 Budget Initial Presentation Feb 15 2021.pdf Backup Material
SUBJECT: Discussion of the FYE2022 budget.
Submitted by: Submitted By:Michelle Weidnerr, Chief Financial Officer
Recommended Action:
Summary Statement:
Expenditure Required:
Source of Funds:
Policy Issue:
Alternative:
Background Information:
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Process
• Capital Improvements Program information is under review.
• Finance has calculated the base budget using updated personnel and current year
property valuations. Estimated FYE22 contractual information (retirements, new hires,
pensions, health care costs and pay rates) were also included.
• The maximum levy published budget was based on the following :
• Current approved staffing levels
• Adjustments to revenue to reflect current economic conditions
• Additional funding requests for critical needs to provide current service
• Council adopts resolution for initial budget publication and to set "maximum levy rate
hearing" February 15 (can't exceed rate for certain levies after publication) for March
1, 2021. 5 votes will be required to pass the maximum levy on March 1.
• Work sessions can be scheduled as requested.
• Mayor's proposed budget tentatively planned to be released by March 1, 2021.
• Council adopts resolution for second budget publication and to set final budget hearing
March 1 (can't exceed rate or expenses by program after publication estimated at
March 6) for March 25, 2021.
• A bond hearing must be held and approved prior to the budget hearing in order to levy
tax for the new bond issue.
• Special council meeting scheduled for Thursday, March 25 for the budget hearing and
vote.
2
City of Waterfoo Vafuation Trends
4.5
4 100% ASSESSED
—M—TAXABLE $4.1
3.5 +TIF Billion
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O 2.5
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a 2
$2.3
Billion
1.5
1
This is a .70% increase in total assessed value and a .46% increase
in taxable value for FYE22.
0.5
0AA
.3 Billion
01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
FISCAL YEAR
3
CITY OF WATERLOO
TOTAL 100%ASSESSED PROPERTY VALUATION
EXCLUDING TIF
ASSESSMENT DATES JANUARY 1, 2007 THROUGH JANUARY 1, 2020
4,000,000,000
3,500,000,000
3,000,000,000 -t RESIDENTIAL
f COMMERCIAL
2,500,000,000 --m-
z
0
7
--X-MULTIRESIDENTIAL
2,000,000,000 UTILITIES & R.R.
-40--AG LAND
1,500,000,000 NOTAL VALUATION
1,000,000,000
500,000,000
� � u
Y � v
09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
PROPERTY TYPE BY FISCAL YEAR
4
CITY OF WATERLOO
TAXABLE PROPERTY VALUATION
EXCLUDING TIF
ASSESSMENT DATES JANUARY 1, 2007 THROUGH JANUARY 1, 2020
2,500,000,000
t RESIDENTIAL
2,000,000,000 - ` --m-COMMERCIAL
+INDUSTRIAL
z 1500,000,000
MULTIRESIDENTIAL
UTILITIES & R.R.
TAXABLE
1,000,000,000 VALUATION
500,000,000
0
09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
PROPERTY TYPE BY FISCAL YEAR
5
Property Ta,-f,,Lec(,yIrends Through FT2 2021
$1,800 $25.00
$1,600 $1 ,549
18.37 $1249 $19321 $19445
$20.00
$1,400
$18.44
$1,200 ,-
$1 ,120 $18.85 $18.26 $17.95 $17.60 $15.00
$1,000
$800 HOME TAX BILL
TAX RATE $10.00
$600
$400
$5.00
$200
$0 $0.00
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Fiscal Year
6
Property Tax Trends With Comparison To Inflation
$40,000
RESIDENTIAL ACT
$35,000 COMMERCIAL ACT
INDUSTRIAL ACT
$30,000 -MULTI-RES ACT
ARES INFL ADJ
$25,000
COMM INFL ADJ
IND INFL ADJ
0 MULTI-RES INFL ADJ
Q $20,000
X $15,000
$10,000 0
■rte�w
$5,000
$0
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
FISCAL YEAR
7
Trendin Genera( TundBafance
$25
Total w�
Target Unassigned
-Unassigned $23.5 Mil
$20 - Assigned
ORestricted/ Nonspendable
===tr Committed
$15 --
�, $13.5 Mil
$11.1 Mil
2$10
%::::;)r $6.5 Mil
$5 ���
$5.6 Mil
$0 --r- - -�--
Oh O`O oA O`b O°' �N �� N N N%` Nh ��O �� �`�' �°� `10
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Fiscal Year
8
ity oWaterfooRevenue Trends
C
Propeity
$60,000,000
$50,000,000
$40,000,000
$30,000,000 Property Taxes
f Replacement Taxes
All Other Revenues
$20,000,000
$10,000,000
$0
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
FISCAL YEAR 9
ffow is the money spent?
(Ex,cfuding Debt Service)
Commodities
Costs 1.00% Other
5.00%
Personnel
20.00%1,111, Costs
Contracted (Including
Services Benefits)
74.00%
Budgeted For the Year Ending 6-30-2021
10
it oWaterfoo 2m o ment
ypy
530
525.5
525 524 524
522.5 521 .5 521 .5 521 521
LU
N 520
518
516.5 516.5
4— 515
511 .5511 511 .5
a�
510
E
Z 505
500
?ooS?006 00;?oo8 Oo9 oi0 Oii oI?013 014 01 -?016 01PI8�I9 X20
Fiscal Year as of
6-30-20
11
FYE22 Maximum Levy Budget Highlights
Set high to provide flexibility — not expected to
be the adopted budget
Tax Levy Rate $19.67872
Increase in Tax Collections $3,2165912
Needed
Amount Over $8.10 Levy ($0)
Limit
Residential Change 9.3%
Commercial Change 6.72%
Multi-Residential Change 1 .1 %
12
City of Waterloo, Iowa
The A4i5* 5i*ot2
Effectively and efficiently utilize the
various resources of city government in
order to help make Waterloo the best
possible place to live, work, �o business,
play and raise a family for all citizens .
13
CITY OF WATERLOO
Council Communication
Discussion of the FYE 2021 financial audit.
City Council Meeting:2/15/2021
Prepared:2/3/2021
REVIEWERS:
Department Reviewer Action Date
Finance Felchle, Kelley Approved 2/3/2021 - 12:24 PM
SUBJECT: Discussion of the FYE 2021 financial audit.
Submitted by: Submitted By: Michelle Weidner, Chief Financial Officer
Recommended Action:
Summary Statement:
Expenditure Required:
Source of Funds:
Policy Issue:
Alternative:
Background Information: