HomeMy WebLinkAbout9-11-23 Climate Action Commission Agenda PacketIowa City Climate Action Commission Agenda
Monday, Sept. 11, 2023, 3:30 p.m.
Emma J. Harvat Hall
Iowa City City Hall
410 E. Washington St.
Meeting Agenda:
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Approval of August 7, 2023 minutes
4. Public Comment on items not on the agenda
-Commentators shall address the Commission for no more than 3 minutes. Commissioners shall
not engage in discussion with the public concerning said items.
5. Announcements – informational updates
a. Action items from last meeting (Staff)
b. Working group updates
i. Energy benchmarking (Krieger, Fraser, Shetty)
c. Climate Fest (Sept. 18-23)
i. Mon., 3-6:30 p.m., transit hub, Walk and Roll Jam (tabling)
ii. Tues., 5:30 -7:30 p.m., Green House, “Speaking of…” (Eynon-Lynch hosting)
iii. Wed., 5-8 p.m., Party at Big Grove (tabling)
iv. Thurs., 6:30-8:30 p.m., Pollinator Drive-In (Sillman hosting)
v. Fri. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Senior Center, Defeat the Heat (Gade hosting)
vi. Sat., 7:30 a.m. – noon, EVs at the Market (tabling)
6. Unfinished/Ongoing Business
a. Wastewater Digester/Methane Capture (Strand Associates) – update, discussion, and
approval
b. Neighborhood and Development Services Report (Hightshoe, Sitzman) – update and
discussion
c. Visioning indicators of success in built environment (Commission) – discussion
7. New Business
a. SolSmart Zoning and Land Use Best Practices Review (Staff) – informational presentation
8. Recap
a. Confirmation of next meeting time and location
i. Monday, October 2, 3:30-5 p.m., Emma J. Harvat Hall
b. Actionable items for commission, working groups, and staff
9. Adjourn
If you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate in this meeting, please contact
Sarah Gardner, Climate Action Coordinator, at 319-887-6162 or at sarah-gardner@iowa-city.org. Early
requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.
MINUTES PRELIMINARY
IOWA CITY CLIMATE ACTION COMMISSION
AUGUST 7, 2023 – 3:30 PM – FORMAL MEETING
EMMA J. HARVART HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Michal Eynon-Lynch, Elizabeth Fitzsimmons, Jamie Gade, Wim
Murray, Michelle Sillman, Gabriel Sturdevant, Matt Walter
MEMBERS ABSENT: John Fraser, Ben Grimm, Matt Krieger, Brinda Shetty
STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Gardner, Megan Hill, Diane Platte, Jane Wilch
OTHERS PRESENT: None
CALL TO ORDER:
Eynon-Lynch called the meeting to order.
APPROVAL OF JULY 10, 2023 MINUTES:
Walter moved to approve the minutes from July 10, 2023, with a noted correction to the
attendance chart on the last page.
Sturdevant seconded the motion, a vote was taken, and the motion passed 7-0.
PUBLIC COMMENT OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Action Items from last meeting (Staff):
• Paper copies of the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) Priority Climate Action
Plan (PCAP) and Comprehensive Climate Action Plan (CCAP) requirements were
distributed to commissions. These materials will be added to the revised agenda packet.
Commission meetings and members update (Staff):
• Gardner noted that Wim Murray is assuming the role of MidAmerican Energy designee
on the Commission from Jesse Leckband, and Murray introduced herself. Gardner
thanked Jesse Leckband for his longtime participation.
• Gardner thanked Lizzy Fitzsimmons for her time on the commission; she will be leaving
the commission to become a Green Iowa AmeriCorps member.
• Gardner noted that the CAC meeting will not have a zoom component in the future.
Working Group Updates:
• Energy Benchmarking (Krieger, Fraser, Shetty): the group is winding down and
preparing a memo that will be shared at the September meeting.
• Marketing audience mapping (Sillman, Sturdevant, Fitzsimmons): Hill described the plan
to share Fare Free information with UI students.
Climate Action Commission
April 3 2023
Page 2 of 5
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UNFINISHED/ONGOING BUSINESS:
Resource Management:
• Wilch presented updates on programs from Recycling and Resource Management.
• The Donation Drive-Thru event collected and processed almost 16,000 lbs. of recycling
and/or reusable goods in four hours.
• Since plastic is such a difficult material to recycle, City programs encourage use of non-
plastic materials. For example, three additional glass recycling drop-off locations were
added a year ago (doubling the number of locations from three to six).
• If awarded, a grant application for the EPA’s Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling
program will fund $4 million improvements to City’s compost facility, which is currently at
capacity. Expanding the footprint and improving equipment will allow the compost facility
to process more material.
• The Food Waste Wednesdays pilot program will continue to run through September 27.
The pilot is structured as a weekly event, meaning that Wilch is onsite during the drop-off
times each week to prevent contamination in the compost and take notes on
participation.
• Sillman asked who was participating in Food Waste Wednesdays. Wilch described
participants as residents living in condo associations, apartment complexes larger than a
fourplex, and rural locations (residents who do not have curbside pickup).
• Gade asked if the EPA grant would allow for a more regional approach to composting.
Wilch noted that there are currently not a lot of haulers for compost pickup.
• Sturdevant asked if the furniture drop-off would be expanded to more than one day.
Wilch described balancing returns with the demands on staff hours. She noted that July
23 was chosen because they have observed the lease gap has continued to widen, so
the third week in July is more useful than the fourth week. Gardner asked Wilch to
compare the waste diversion per hour of Donation Drive-Thru Drop vs. Rummage in the
Ramp. This year the Donation Drive-Thru processed two tons of material an hour, much
more material than in previous Rummage events. Eynon-Lynch asked what accounts for
the change in efficiency of this program, and Wilch explained the collaboration with
partner organizations allows for instant diversion and instant benefit.
• For plastics, a recycling drop-off pilot program at Eastside Recycling Center is in the
works. This will include education on reducing use, what types of plastics can be
recycled, what types of plastics cannot be recycled.
• For the bins in the curbside program, Resource Management staff are working to design
stickers with QR codes so that residents can access the most up-to-date information.
• A bring-your-own-container campaign is in development to encourage residents to
reduce reliance on single-use takeout containers from food vendors.
• Sillman asked about the mattress recycling program. Wilch described grant funding
where half went to Houses into Homes to redistribute gently used mattresses, and half
was intended to kick-start a program for mattress recycling operation with Willis Dady
Homeless Services in Cedar Rapids. The 2020 derecho damaged the property Willis
Dady was going to use, so that part of the project was delayed and grant funding
adjusted. A pilot mattress recycling program with Willis Dady has now commenced.
• Wilch noted the great first year of the Love Food, Fight Waste program, and its
maturation in year two.
• Gade asked whether a compostable item thrown into the landfill will still decompose.
Wilch explained that organic items in a landfill environment -- in the absence of oxygen
Climate Action Commission
April 3 2023
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and light -- produce methane and do not break down. Eynon-Lynch noted that
compostable containers from restaurants (particularly vendors at festivals) can only
enter the landfill waste stream when disposed of downtown. Wilch and Gardner
described additional challenges with event composting observed during past efforts to
offer compost waste at festivals and the Farmers Market, noting that contamination was
a major issue. Staff have been encouraging events to pursue a food-scrap only diversion
strategy rather than a compostable container program as a way to address those
challenges.
• Sillman asked about the level of confidence that “recyclable” plastic is actually being
recycled. Wilch described the Scott County Waste Commission recycling sorting facility
that receives material from Iowa City’s diversion programs and communicates with her
regularly, fostering a high level of confidence. She noted recycling is very much a
localized program. Gardner suggested the two best questions to ask a recycling program
are “Who’s taking it?” and “What is it being turned into?” to gauge whether material is
actually being recycled. Iowa City Resource Management staff are able to answer both
questions for the city’s recycling material. Wilch also explained that plastic can be
recycled (downcycled) 1-3 times; eventually all plastic exhausts its ability to be recycled
and must be landfilled at that point.
Climate Fest:
• Gardner described opportunities for commissioners’ involvement. For three events, staff
are inviting commissioners to serve as host to provide an introduction at the beginning of
the event, which will be a five-minute commitment. Other events will have tabling
opportunities to assist staff in talking with residents and handing out materials.
• Monday, Sept. 18 (Walk and Roll Jam at Downtown Interchange, 3-6:30 p.m.)
o Tabling help is an option, 3-6:30 p.m. This event will feature live music, thank-
you notes to bus drivers, and swag giveaways.
• Tuesday, Sept. 19 (Speaking of…Live/ at the Green House, 5:30-7:30 p.m.)
o Host is requested, 6 p.m. Wilch and Gardner will discuss Resources for Renters,
and the host would introduce,
• Wednesday, Sept. 20 (Party at Big Grove, 5-8 p.m.)
o Tabling help is an option, 5-8 p.m. This event will include a slideshow of
successes and tabling by community partners.
• Thursday, Sept. 21 (Pollinator Drive-In, afternoon events plus Airport event 6:30-9 p.m.)
o Host is requested, 7:30 p.m., to introduce the feature film
• Friday, Sept. 22 (Defeat the Heat at Senior Center, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.)
o Host is requested to introduce the presentation at noon.
• Saturday, Sept. 23 (EVs at the Market City Hall parking lot 7:30-noon)
o Tabling help 7:30-noon is an option.
NEW BUSINESS:
Fleet Transition Plan
• Gardner described how Iowa City started the process two weeks ago. The plan will be
completed in 9 months. Fleet manager Dan Striegel and climate analyst Daniel Bissell
are sending detailed information to the consultant about the City’s current vehicles for
Climate Action Commission
April 3 2023
Page 4 of 5
4
analysis. ICF will work to identified possible electric vehicle replacements as well as
infrastructure needs to meet the charging requirements. Four meetings are scheduled
with a staff committee. Staff are seeking a commissioner to attend those four meetings
as an opportunity to learn more about the process.
Visioning indicators of success
• Eynon-Lynch noted that typically “progress” is measured by “growth.” The City’s recent
Strategic Plan speaks to the need to address certain systemic problems, such as climate
change, that are not well-served by tracking metrics of growth (even growth of tax base).
A guiding question might be, “What would a climate resilient community look like 25
years from now?” For each of the next three meetings, each commissioner is assigned
to sketch an idea for the focus areas of climate action – buildings, transportation, waste -
- to reflect a positive vision of the future.
• Gardner noted that Council started with a similar visioning process, “What does success
look like?” when building the Strategic Plan. This visioning exercise was also part of the
Climate Ambassadors curriculum. In the agenda packet, a Wendell Berry poem and
Before-and-After illustration might jump-start ideas for indicators of success.
• Gade suggested collecting community members’ visioning as well. It was determined to
offer an invitation in the next Climate Action Matters newsletter.
RECAP:
• Confirmation of next meeting time and location:
o Monday September 11, 3:30-5 p.m., Emma J. Harvat Hall
• Actionable items for commission, working groups, and staff:
o Gardner will correct the attendance sheet.
o Commission members will work on visioning exercise.
o Commission members will email staff to indicate interest in Climate Fest
participation and/or Fleet Transition Plan participation.
o Staff will include an invitation in the September Climate Action newsletter for
community members to attend upcoming meetings related to the visioning
process.
ADJOURNMENT:
Sillman moved to adjourn, Fitzsimmons seconded the motion. A vote was taken, and the motion
passed 7-0.
Climate Action Commission
April 3 2023
Page 5 of 5
5
CLIMATE ACTION
COMMISSION ATTENDANCE
RECORD
2023
NAME
TERM EXP.
9/
1
2
/
2
0
2
2
10
/
1
0
/
2
0
2
2
11
/
7
/
2
0
2
2
12
/
5
/
2
2
1/
9
/
2
0
2
3
2/
6
/
2
0
2
3
3/
6
/
2
0
2
3
4/
3
/
2
3
5/
1
/
2
3
6/
5
/
2
3
7/
1
0
/
2
0
8/
7
/
2
0
2
3
Michal Eynon-Lynch 12/31/2024 X X X X X X X X X NM X X
Elizabeth Fitzsimmons 12/31/2025 X X X X X NM O/
E
X
John Fraser 12/31/2024 X X X X X X X X O/E NM X O/E
Jamie Gade 12/31/2025 X X X X O/E NM X X
Ben Grimm 10/31/2023 X O/E X X X X X X X NM X O/E
Clarity Guerra 12/31/2022 X X X X * * * * * * * *
Kasey Hutchinson 12/31/22 X X X X * * * * * * * *
Matt Krieger 12/31/2023 O/E X X X X X X X X NM X O/E
Wim Murray MidAmerican
Rep
X
Michelle Sillman 12/31/20025 X X X O/E O/E NM X X
Brinda Shetty UI Rep X X X X X O/E X X X NM X O/E
Gabe Sturdevant 12/31/2024 X O/E X X X X X X X NM X X
Matt Walter 12/31/2023 O/E X X X X X X O/E X NM X X
KEY: X = Present
0 = Absent
0/E = Absent/Excused
NM= No
Meeting
* No longer on Commission
Date: August 31, 2023
To: Climate Action Commission
From: Energy Benchmarking Working Group: John Fraser, Matt Krieger, Brinda Shetty
Daniel Bissell, Climate Action Analyst
Re: Energy Benchmarking Proposal
Background
Item BR-4 of the Accelerating Iowa City’s Climate Actions Plan calls for the establishment of
energy benchmarking requirements. This would require owners of buildings of a predetermined
size to annually report energy performance metrics to the City. Item BI-10 compliments this
requirement to incentivize improvements for large properties that are significant contributors
to the City’s overall carbon footprint. These objectives connect the goals from the Climate
Action and Adaptation Plan to increase energy efficiency in businesses (1.2) and to support
energy benchmarking tools (1.6).
Following a review of benchmarking ordinances and programs across the country in various
sized cities, as well as discussions with the City Manager’s Office, the working group and climate
action staff are making the following recommendations for a pilot project that has already
begun.
Goal
The goal of this pilot project is fourfold: 1) identify largest energy users in the city, 2) develop
incentives to assist building owners to make energy-efficient investments, 3) increase resilience
of the local electric grid by reducing strain during peak usage, and 4) reduce greenhouse gas
emissions by addressing inefficiencies in the largest energy users. The pilot will begin by
working with organizations voluntarily willing to track and improve energy efficiency with the
City. Identifying the needed improvements will also help the City tailor incentive programs to
help building owners make improvements they may not otherwise. Energy efficiency saves
money. Energy-efficient buildings cost less to heat, cool, and operate, while industry and
manufacturing plants can make products at lower cost.1
Program Description
Climate Action staff have already engaged with a local brewery/restaurant and house of
worship/historic property to help guide these entities in the use of Energy Star’s Portfolio
Manager website. On this platform, users build a profile by entering the square footage and use
of their building(s). Then they directly enter their energy use and cost along with their water
use and cost from their utility bills. This can be linked with the City’s Portfolio Manager account
so staff can review energy use and eventually suggest improvements and/or connect
participating properties with energy saving resources. Staff will start an outreach campaign to
recruit more participants in this voluntary benchmarking program. The data collected will be
used to identify interventions to improve energy efficiency. The Climate Action staff and
Commission can develop incentives for building owners to increase participation, including
project-based incentives which will directly improve energy efficiency.
Funding
The voluntary benchmarking pilot project will not require any additional funding. The only
required resources will be staff time. Project-based incentives likely will involve Climate Action
Grants and identifying outside funding sources including utility rebates and state and federal
grants and credits.
Success Benchmarks: Year 1
• Benchmark 12 properties across varied building types
Success Benchmarks: Year 2
• Continued participation of at least 9 properties
• Provide energy saving recommendations and/or resources to at least 3 properties
• Host a “data camp” event to facilitate participation by additional properties
1Department of Energy, https://www.energy.gov/eere/energy-efficiency-buildings-and-industry#:~:text=
Cost%20Savings&text=Energy%2Defficient%20buildings%20cost%20less,transportation%20results%20i
n%20fuel%20savings.
1
Step 1: Desired Outcomes and Goals
Voluntary Energy Benchmarking
City Staff will approach local businesses and building owners and offer
assistance in setting up a Portfolio Manager account and entering two years
of utility data. This would link to the City's account for staff to periodically
review data.
This is largely an educational project which will allow business and building
owners to see their energy usage over time, and compare it to other buildings
with similar uses. As the usage data is collected over time, it will allow City
staff to connect owners with resources including grants, utility rebates, and
ESCOs to help identify and support projects that will reduce energy usage.
Iowa City: Climate Action Plan Equity Implementation Toolkit (June 2021)
1a. Project Name:
1b. Project Description:
1c. Project Area:
1d. Project Type:
1e. What is the desired outcome for this proposal?
Education
Buildings
2
2a. Who is the targeted audience for this action? (Select all that apply)
City-wide
OR
Residential
Single-Dwelling Residential
Owner-Occupied
Rental
Multi-Dwelling Residential
Owner-Occupied
Rental
Commercial
Small Business
Large Business
Industrial
Other:
Public/Non-Profit Institutions
Non-Profit Organizations
University of Iowa
Kirkwood Community College
Other:
2b. Are there impacts on specific neighborhoods or geographic areas?
Yes
No
If yes, which neighborhoods or regions will be impacted by this action?
(Select all that apply)
Regions
North
West
East
South
Central
Neighborhoods
Manville Heights
Melrose Ave
Miller Orchard
Morningside/Glendale
Parkview Ter./Normandy
Northside
Oak Grove
Peninsula Area
Penny Bryn
Bluffwood
College Green
Country Club Estates
Creekside
Eastside
Galway Hills
Goosetown
Longfellow
Lucas Farms
South District
Ty’n Cae
Walnut Ridge
Waterfront
Washington
Hills Windsor
Ridge
Other:
Step 2: Data
3
This being a voluntary program, it is hard to know at the onset what the
geographic distribution of participation will be.
The voluntary benchmarking program would rely on staff time to assist in
setting up Portfolio Manager. Any incentives would be in the form of Climate
Action grants, or outside rebates from the utility or other sources.
Please review the Climate Action Equity Map to
consider other geographic factors that may be
impacted by the proposed action(s).
What are the observations?
2c. What are the primary demographics of those that would be impacted by
the proposal? Consider who is being affected or involved in the action and
whether all are able to participate and/or benefit to the same degree. (Select
all that apply)
Communities/people of color
Young people
People with disabilities
Older people
LGBTQ+ community
Communities of immigrants and/or limited English proficiency
People without employment
People who depend on public transit or other non-single-driver
transportation
Other individuals or communities that have been disenfranchised
Will remove, or potentially remove, barrier(s) that caused inequity in the
first place (justice)
Other:
2d. What is the budget of the work of the action and will that impact the ability
to successfully address equity?
Business and building owners, employees and unemployed
Why use mapping as a tool to analyze
the distribution of city services?
It can demonstrate how differently a
city action can affect different
populations or geographical areas. It can
illustrate the community’s assets and
weaknesses.
4
To some degree yes, as this program targets those who already own businesses
and/or commercial property.
Which businesses and/or buildings elect to sign up.
Marketing and outreach to the local business community.
2e. Is the individual or household’s personal wealth a determining factor in the
ability to benefit from this action?
2f. Is there any essential data missing or need further exploration?
How do you plan to find out the information?
5
Business and building owners, the local utility, and City staff are the key
stakeholders involved.
To date the stakeholders that have not been involved in the conversation are the
local utility and employees of businesses which may or may not participate.
We can inform the utility, and attempt to engage with employees of interested
businesses.
3a. Who are the stakeholders involved
in this action?
3b. Which groups have been part of the
decision-making?
3c. Are there groups that have been missing in the conversation? Which
ones?
If yes, what are opportunities for outreach to engage these groups?
Step 3: Stakeholder Involvement / Community Engagement
To this point City staff and Climate Action Commission members, but business and
building owners will get to decide whether or not to participate in the program.
Who are the “stakeholders”? Stakeholders are
those impacted or interested in the action.
Examples include residents, city staff, community
organizations, businesses, etc.
6
A B
C D
IOWA CITY COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & STAKEHOLDER MAP
The Community Engagement & Stakeholder Map from the Addressing Climate Change,
Health, and Equity in Iowa City Report is aimed to help the City understand how
different stakeholders may be impacted by environmental policies differently due to
client vulnerabilities and connectedness to the city. The purpose is to promote
engagement between the City and community organizations. Depending on where the
stakeholder is located on the map will impact how they will be engaged and reached by
the City.
Influence in environmental decision-making (time,
resources, information, perceived ability to influence
outcomes)
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by
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o
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a
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.
7
3d. Using the Iowa City Community Engagement & Stakeholder Map above,
where do the involved stakeholders fall in the quadrant(s)? How have the
stakeholders or community member/groups been involved in the
development of this proposal? (Fill in as applicable)
Stakeholder #1: Employers
Quadrant: D
Informed
Consulted
Collaborated
Shared Decision-Making
Stakeholder #5:
Quadrant: A
Informed
Consulted
Collaborated
Shared Decision-Making
Stakeholder #2: Utility
Quadrant: B
Informed
Consulted
Collaborated
Shared Decision-Making
Stakeholder #6:
Quadrant: A
Informed
Consulted
Collaborated
Shared Decision-Making
Stakeholder #3:
Quadrant: A
Informed
Consulted
Collaborated
Shared Decision-Making
Stakeholder #7:
Quadrant: A
Informed
Consulted
Collaborated
Shared Decision-Making
Stakeholder #4:
Quadrant: A
Informed
Consulted
Collaborated
Shared Decision-Making
Stakeholder #8:
Quadrant: A
Informed
Consulted
Collaborated
Shared Decision-Making
8
Both employers and the utility are highly engaged already, and should be
responsive to outreach efforts.
3e. How does the quadrant impact how the stakeholders are engaged?
3f. If applicable, where do the groups most impacted by the action fall in the
quadrant(s) (identified in Step 2c)?
3g. What are the strategies to gather input and feedback from stakeholders?
One-on-one interviews
Focus groups
Online survey
Small group facilitated workshops
Collaboration on activities or projects
Other:
3h. Do the materials used to market this program need to be translated into
other languages other than English?
Yes
No
Maybe
Not Applicable
D - employers
9
4a. Are there other non-economic or non-direct-GHG-reduction benefits or
advantages? (Select all that apply)
Neighbors get to know each other
Advances knowledge of some aspect of climate change or sustainability
Provides for childhood learning or development in general
Leads to access to other education or training for adults
Improves air, land and/or water quality
Improves healthier living in general
Supports biodiversity
Makes travel/transit easier/efficient, safer or reliable, especially people
who are vulnerable
Makes “greener” travel more possible for all by bus, walking, biking, etc.
Otherwise supports part or all of action in one of the other action areas:
Buildings, Transportation, Waste, Adaptation, Sustainable Living
Easily replicable and scalable
Engagement with community stakeholders or agencies
Other:
4b. Are there other economic benefits? (Select all that apply)
Increases home or building value
Adds new or advances existing jobs/profession
Supports local economy
Other:
4c. Does it conflict with any other action in the 100-day plan?
Buildings
Transportation
Waste
Adaptation
Sustainable Lifestyle
If yes, how?
Step 4 – Benefit / Burden Determination
10
Business and building owners will be able to pursue energy efficiency measures
once they have a clearer understanding of their energy usage and costs.
Implementation of those measures will reduce their energy costs, boosting the
bottom line.
4d. Which group(s) will be more positively impacted by the outcome of this
action?
4e. Are there any obstacles that are keeping particular groups from
participating in the benefits of this action? (Select all that apply)
Education
Financial
Time
Physical accessibility
Lack of cultural sensitivity
Language barriers
Other:
11
City staff will help to set up Portfolio Manager account and enter the first two
years of utility data. It will be up to the owner themselves to keep up data entry
long term.
Regular communication can help keep participants engaged.
Outreach and marketing to business and building owners needs to be
developed by staff.
5a. If applicable, what are the strategies for addressing the potential identified
burdens/obstacles?
5b. How can partnerships with stakeholders be continued throughout the
implementation process?
5c. What remains unresolved? What resources or internal/external
partnerships do you still need to make changes?
Step 5 – Strategies / Recommendations
12
If the participating businesses and buildings served a diverse portion of the
community.
Participating businesses can be tracked by geographic location, and the
populations those businesses serve can be estimated.
Stakeholders can always reach out to staff for clarification or assistance.
6a. In what ways would this action be considered “successful” for equity in
the Iowa City community?
6b. How can the impacts and outcomes be documented and evaluated over
time?
6c. Is there a clear way for stakeholders or community members to contact
with questions or concerns over this action?
Step 6 – Evaluation and Accountability
I n m a n y w a y s , t h i s h a s b e e n a t o u g h y e a r o n t h e
c l i m a t e f r o n t . S m o k e f r o m t h e C a n a d i a n w i l d f i r e s
r e a c h e d u s i n I o w a C i t y . T h e w o r l d h a d i t s h o t t e s t
J u n e o n r e c o r d , f o l l o w e d b y t h e h o t t e s t J u l y .
D r o u g h t c o n d i t i o n s i m p a c t e d m u c h o f I o w a .
B u t h e r e i s w h a t e l s e h a p p e n e d : M o r e t h a n 8 8
p e r c e n t o f o u r e l e c t r i c i t y l o c a l l y w a s g e n e r a t e d b y
w i n d . I o w a C i t y v o l u n t e e r s , R o o t f o r T r e e s v o u c h e r
r e c i p i e n t s , a n d c i t y s t a f f p l a n t e d m o r e t h a n 1 ,1 0 0
t r e e s . E l e c t r i c v e h i c l e r e g i s t r a t i o n s g r e w 2 6 p e r c e n t
i n J o h n s o n C o u n t y . A n d o n t h e v e r y f i r s t d a y o f
I o w a C i t y ’s n e w F a r e F r e e p i l o t p r o g r a m , m o r e t h a n
1 ,0 0 0 n e w r i d e r s g o t o n t h e b u s .
T h e s t o r i e s w e t e l l a b o u t c l i m a t e a c t i o n m a t t e r .
W i t h o u t q u e s t i o n w e a r e u p a g a i n s t t o u g h
c h a l l e n g e s . B u t t h a t i s o n l y t e l l i n g h a l f t h e s t o r y .
W e a l s o h a v e t h e t o o l s w e n e e d a n d c r u c i a l
r e s o u r c e s i n e a c h o t h e r t o b u i l d a b e t t e r f u t u r e .
T h a t i s t h e h e a r t C l i m a t e F e s t , a n a n n u a l
c e l e b r a t i o n o f t h e i m p o r t a n t p r o g r e s s b e i n g m a d e
a n d a r e n e w e d c o m m i t m e n t t o k e e p d o i n g t h e
w o r k . W e h o p e t o s e e y o u a t o n e o r m o r e e v e n t s !
Why Climate Fest?
I O W A C I T Y C L I M A T E A C T I O N & O U T R E A C H S H A R I N G U P D A T E S , C E L E B R A T I N G S O L U T I O N S
C L I M A T E F E S T C A L E N D A R
M O N . 9 /1 8 - W A L K & R O L L J A M
T U E . 9 /1 9 - S P E A K I N G O F ...L I V E !
D E T A I L S I N S I D E !
Cli m a t e F est 202
3
!
W E D . 9 /2 0 - P A R T Y A T B I G G R O V E
T H U R . 9 /2 1 - P O L L I N A T O R D R I V E -I N
F R I . 9 /2 2 - D E F E A T T H E H E A T
S A T . 9 /2 3 - E V S A T T H E M A R K E T
C l i m a t e F e s t k i c k s o f f o n M o n d a y ,
S e p t e m b e r 1 8 , w i t h a c e l e b r a t i o n o f I o w a
C i t y a s a g r e a t p l a c e t o w a l k , b i k e , a n d h o p o n
a b u s . K e e p y o u r e y e s o u t f o r d e c o r a t e d b u s
s h e l t e r s a r o u n d t o w n . T h e n p u t a l i t t l e s p r i n g
i n y o u r s t e p w i t h l i v e m u s i c a t t h e d o w n t o w n
t r a n s i t h u b f r o m 3 -6 :3 0 p .m . a n d l e a v e a
t h a n k y o u n o t e f o r o u r h a r d w o r k i n g b u s
d r i v e r s . T h a n k s t o t h e F a r e F r e e p i l o t t h a t
s t a r t e d A u g u s t 1 , e v e r y o n e r i d e s f r e e t o d a y
a n d e v e r y d a y ! A n d g e t e x c i t e d f o r a n e w "n e t
z e r o c a r b o n " t r a n s i t f a c i l i t y c o m i n g s o o n
t h a n k s t o a r e c e n t l y a w a r d e d f e d e r a l g r a n t .
W a l k a n d R o l l J a m
O n W e d n e s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 2 0 ,
f r o m 5 -8 p .m ., s t o p b y o u r
P a r t y a t B i g G r o v e t o v i s i t
t a b l e s f r o m c l i m a t e -f o c u s e d
c o m m u n i t y o r g a n i z a t i o n s , a n d
c h e c k o u t I o w a C i t y P u b l i c
L i b r a r y 's n e w b o o k b i k e !
O n S a t u r d a y , S e p t e m b e r 2 3 , g e t a n u p -c l o s e
l o o k a t E V s a n d t a l k t o o w n e r s a b o u t w h y t h e y
l o v e d r i v i n g e l e c t r i c . F r o m 7 :3 0 -n o o n ,
a d j a c e n t t o t h e F a r m e r s M a r k e t , f i n d e l e c t r i c
v e h i c l e s o f a l l s i z e s , f r o m e -b i k e s t o a n e -b u s !
E V S h o w
I O W A C I T Y C L I M A T E A C T I O N & O U T R E A C H S H A R I N G U P D A T E S , C E L E B R A T I N G S O L U T I O N S
O n T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 2 1 , a t 6 :3 0 p .m .,
C l i m a t e F e s t w i l l h o s t a P o l l i n a t o r D r i v e -I n
a t t h e A i r p o r t ! T h e d o c u m e n t a r y M y G a r d e n
o f a T h o u s a n d B e e s t e l l s t h e s t o r y o f M a r t i n
D o h r n , a b e e e n t h u s i a s t a n d w i l d l i f e
c a m e r a m a n . T h e f i l m h i g h l i g h t s t h e
i n c r e d i b l e d i v e r s i t y o f b e e s , e v e n i n a t i n y
u r b a n g a r d e n .
C l o s e r t o h o m e , a n e w p r o g r a m c a l l e d I o w a
C i t y L a w n L o v e s h o w c a s e s t h e o p t i o n s f o r
t u r n i n g a y a r d i n t o a d i v e r s e a n d h e a l t h y
w i l d l i f e h a b i t a t o r s o u r c e f o r v e r y l o c a l f o o d !
V i d e o s f e a t u r i n g l o c a l r e s i d e n t s a n d h e l p f u l
i n f o r m a t i o n c a n b e f o u n d a t
I C g o v .o r g /L a w n L o v e .
P r o t e c t P o l l i n a t o r s
I O W A C I T Y C L I M A T E A C T I O N & O U T R E A C H S H A R I N G U P D A T E S , C E L E B R A T I N G S O L U T I O N S
T h i s s u m m e r , I o w a C i t y v o l u n t e e r s r e c e i v e d
s p e c i a l t r a i n i n g t h r o u g h t h e S p o t t h e H o t
c a m p a i g n , t h e n f a n n e d o u t a c r o s s t h e c i t y t o
c o l l e c t t e m p e r a t u r e r e a d i n g s t o h e l p l o c a t e u r b a n
h e a t i s l a n d s . S i n c e t h e n , p r o j e c t p a r t n e r C A P A
S t r a t e g i e s h a s b e e n h a r d a t w o r k a n a l y z i n g t h e
d a t a . A s u m m a r y o f t h e p r o j e c t , r e s u l t s , a n d w a y s
w e c a n w o r k t o d e f e a t t h e h e a t w i l l b e p r e s e n t e d
o n F r i d a y , S e p t e m b e r 2 2 , a t 1 1 :3 0 -1 :3 0 , i n t h e
A s s e m b l y R o o m a t t h e S e n i o r C e n t e r .
D e f e a t t h e H e a t
T h r o u g h t h e C i t y R o o t f o r T r e e s p r o g r a m ,
I o w a C i t y r e s i d e n t s a n d b u s i n e s s e s c a n
r e c e i v e a v o u c h e r f o r 5 0 % o f f t h e
p u r c h a s e o f a t r e e f r o m E a r l M a y o r I o w a
C i t y L a n d s c a p e a n d D e s i g n . I n c o m e -q u a l i f i e d
h o u s e h o l d s c a n r e c e i v e a v o u c h e r f o r 9 0 %
o f f t h e c o s t o f t h e t r e e . T h e p r o g r a m
r e s u m e s S e p t e m b e r 1 5 . S i g n i n g u p f o r a
v o u c h e r i s e a s y ! F i n d m o r e d e t a i l s a t
I C g o v .o r g /R o o t F o r T r e e s .
R o o t f o r T r e e s
A R T S Y B E E S W O R K S H O P
O n T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 2 1 , a t
4 :3 0 p .m ., c r e a t o r s o f a l l a g e s c a n
h e l p m a k e b e e s c u l p t u r e s a t t h e
R o b e r t A . L e e R e c r e a t i o n C e n t e r !
G o l d i e , o u r p a r t n e r i n
c l i m a t e a c t i o n , h e l p e d
s p r e a d t h e w o r d t h i s
y e a r f o r c l i m a t e
i n i t i a t i v e s . P i c k u p
G o l d i e s t i c k e r s a t a n y
C l i m a t e F e s t e v e n t t o
c o l l e c t a n d s h a r e !
A n e w s o l a r a r r a y o n t h e P u b l i c W o r k s
F a c i l i t y t h a t w i l l g e n e r a t e 4 0 k W h o f
e n e r g y , 1 0 0 % o f t h e f a c i l i t y 's b a s e l o a d
T h e F o o d W a s t e W e d n e s d a y p i l o t
p r o g r a m u n d e r R e c y c l i n g a n d R e s o u r c e
M a n a g e m e n t t h a t o f f e r s a d r o p -o f f
o p t i o n f o r r e s i d e n t s w h o d o n o t h a v e
c u r b s i d e c o m p o s t p i c k u p
U r b a n l u m b e r r e p u r p o s e d f o r P a r k s a n d
R e c r e a t i o n p r o j e c t s t o r e d u c e w a s t e a n d
h e l p c u t e m i s s i o n s
F o u r m o r e e l e c t r i c b u s e s t o b e
p u r c h a s e d n e x t y e a r , t h a n k s t o a g r a n t
s e c u r e d b y T r a n s p o r t a t i o n
A F l e e t T r a n s i t i o n P l a n b e i n g d e v e l o p e d
t h r o u g h t h e c o l l a b o r a t i o n o f m u l t i p l e
d e p a r t m e n t s t h a t w i l l i d e n t i f y p a t h w a y s
t o e l e c t r i f y a l l C i t y -o w n e d v e h i c l e s , f r o m
f o r k l i f t s t o d u m p t r u c k s !
T h e S t r a t e g i c P l a n f o r I o w a C i t y i d e n t i f i e s
c l i m a t e a c t i o n a s a c o r e c o m m u n i t y v a l u e
a n d e m p o w e r s e v e r y d e p a r t m e n t t o w o r k
t o w a r d o u r c l i m a t e g o a l s . R e c e n t p r o j e c t s
i n c l u d e :
C l i m a t e A c t i o n a s a V a l u e
I O W A C I T Y C L I M A T E A C T I O N & O U T R E A C H S H A R I N G U P D A T E S , C E L E B R A T I N G S O L U T I O N S
O n T u e s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 9 , C l i m a t e F e s t w i l l
h o s t a s p e c i a l e v e n t f o r r e n t e r s , w h o m a k e u p
m o r e t h a n h a l f o f a l l t h e h o u s e h o l d s i n I o w a
C i t y . S p e a k i n g O f ...R e s o u r c e s f o r R e n t e r s
w i l l t a k e p l a c e a t T h e G r e e n H o u s e a t 6 p .m .
J o i n R e c y c l i n g C o o r d i n a t o r J a n e W i l c h a n d
C l i m a t e A c t i o n C o o r d i n a t o r S a r a h G a r d n e r f o r
a f u n d i s c u s s i o n o f t h e n e w F o o d W a s t e
W e d n e s d a y p i l o t p r o g r a m , g r a n t s t o h e l p
a p a r t m e n t b u i l d i n g s a n d c o n d o s i n s t a l l E V
c h a r g i n g , a n d l i t t l e l i f e h a c k s t h a t c a n a d d u p
t o a m p l i f y y o u r c l i m a t e c o m m i t m e n t .
S p e a k i n g O f ...L i v e !
S O L A R I N I O W A C I T Y
I n t e r e s t e d i n a d d i n g s o l a r p a n e l s t o
y o u r h o m e o r b u s i n e s s ? C u r i o u s
a b o u t t h e p e r m i t t i n g p r o c e s s ?
U n s u r e w h a t q u e s t i o n s t o a s k a
c o n t r a c t o r ?
F i n d h e l p f u l r e s o u r c e s a t
I C g o v .o r g /S o l a r a n d j o i n t h e
r e s i d e n t s b e n e f i t t i n g f r o m t h e
r e c e n t l y u p d a t e d s o l a r b u i l d i n g
c o d e s a p p r o v e d b y C i t y C o u n c i l .
G r e e n h o u s e G a s (G H G ) e m i s s i o n s c o m e f r o m a
n u m b e r o f s o u r c e s , a n d I o w a C i t y 's G H G
i n v e n t o r y h e l p s f o c u s t h e C i t y 's a c t i o n s . F o r
e x a m p l e , i t s h o w s a r e l a t i v e l y s m a l l a m o u n t o f
e m i s s i o n s c o m e f r o m w a s t e , s o w e k n o w
r e c y c l i n g a l o n e w o n 't a c h i e v e o u r g o a l s . I t a l s o
h e l p s u s k e e p t r a c k o f o u r l o n g -t e r m p r o g r e s s .
B u t G H G i n v e n t o r i e s h a v e l i m i t s . T h e y d o n o t
r e f l e c t c l i m a t e p r e p a r e d n e s s e f f o r t s l i k e
p l a n t i n g t r e e s o r m o v i n g b u i l d i n g s o u t o f
f l o o d p l a i n s , w h i c h a r e c r i t i c a l f o r c o m m u n i t y
r e s i l i e n c e . T h e y a l s o c a n o b s c u r e t h e
i m p o r t a n c e o f a c t i o n s w e t a k e t o d a y , b e c a u s e
t h e c u m u l a t i v e e f f e c t o f t h o s e a c t i o n s o f t e n
t a k e s y e a r s t o s h o w u p i n t h e g r a p h s .
I o w a C i t y 's G r e e n h o u s e
G a s I n v e n t o r y U p d a t e
I O W A C I T Y C L I M A T E A C T I O N & O U T R E A C H S H A R I N G U P D A T E S , C E L E B R A T I N G S O L U T I O N S
T h e m o s t i m p o r t a n t i n d i c a t o r i n a G H G
i n v e n t o r y i s t h e l o n g t e r m t r e n d . A n d t h e
n e w s t h e r e i s g o o d f o r I o w a C i t y ! W e a r e o n
t r a c k t o a c h i e v e a n d m a i n t a i n o u r 2 0 3 0
e m i s s i o n s r e d u c t i o n g o a l s . I n f a c t , a s o t h e r
c i t i e s a d o p t t h e s a m e g o a l s , I o w a C i t y i s
s h o w i n g t h a t i t c a n b e d o n e ! T h a t i s g o o d
n e w s w o r t h s h a r i n g .
Iowa City
Greenhouse Gas
Emission Targets:
reduction by 2030
emissions by 2050
45%
Net Zero
A 2% reduction is needed
each year to reach this goal.
D I D Y O U K N O W ?
T h e C i t y c u r r e n t l y o f f e r s a g r a n t t h a t
c o v e r s t h e c o s t i n f u l l f o r i n c o m e -
q u a l i f i e d I o w a C i t y h o m e o w n e r s t o
i n c r e a s e t h e a m o u n t o f a t t i c
i n s u l a t i o n i n t h e i r h o m e s . I t i s n o t a
l o a n t h a t n e e d s t o b e r e p a i d o r a
r e b a t e w i t h u p f r o n t c o s t s . A l l o f t h e
c o s t s a r e c o v e r e d b y t h e C i t y d i r e c t l y ,
a n d a p p l i c a t i o n s a r e a c c e p t e d y e a r -
r o u n d . M o r e i n f o a t I C g o v .o r g /I n s u l a t e
C o n g r a t u l a t i o n s t o t h e 2 0 2 3 r e c i p i e n t s o f
C l i m a t e A c t i o n G r a n t s : I o w a C i t y B i k e
L i b r a r y , C a t h o l i c W o r k e r H o u s e ,
C o m m U n i t y , D e e r f i e l d C o m m o n s , D u b u q u e
S t . A p t s ., F i n & F e a t h e r , T h e G r e e n H o u s e ,
I C C o m p a s s i o n , N e i g h b o r h o o d C e n t e r s o f
J o h n s o n C o u n t y , J C R a i l r o a d H i s t o r i c a l
C e n t e r , S u m m i t A p a r t m e n t s , a n d t h e Y o u t h
M i n i -G r a n t a w a r d e d t o s u p p o r t a p e e r -t o -
p e e r e d u c a t i o n p r o g r a m !
G r a n t s t h i s y e a r w i l l h e l p i m p r o v e
i n s u l a t i o n , f u n d h i g h e f f i c i e n c y a p p l i a n c e s ,
i n s t a l l s o l a r p a n e l s , e s t a b l i s h c o m m u n i t y
g a r d e n s , i n c r e a s e c o m p o s t i n g c a p a c i t y , a n d
m u c h m o r e .
T h e n e x t C l i m a t e A c t i o n G r a n t
a p p l i c a t i o n w i n d o w w i l l o p e n i n S p r i n g
2 0 2 4 . L e a r n m o r e a b o u t t h e p r o g r a m a t
I C g o v .o r g /C l i m a t e A c t i o n G r a n t s a n d g e t
i n s p i r e d t o a p p l y f o r a p r o j e c t n e x t y e a r !
C l i m a t e A c t i o n G r a n t s
I O W A C I T Y C L I M A T E A C T I O N & O U T R E A C H S H A R I N G U P D A T E S , C E L E B R A T I N G S O L U T I O N S
Do this Year DateCompleted
Get a home energy audit
Free from Green Iowa AmeriCorps, a $400 value!
Johnson Co. residents call 319-339-5399 to schedule.
Do in the next 2-3 years
Improve insulation, air sealing, and ventilation in your home
Up to $1,200 tax credit / $1,600 HEEHRA rebate
Upgrade when it breaks
Replace air conditioner with heat pump
Up to $2,000 tax credit / $8,000 HEEHRA rebate
Replace water heater with heat pump water heater Up to $2,000 tax credit / $1,750 HEEHRA rebate
Bonus: Upgrade electric panel
Up to $600 tax credit, $4,000 HEEHRA rebate when combined with a heat pump HVAC system or heat pump water heater
Replace your current car with an electric vehicle (EV)
Up to $7,500 tax credit (new EV)
Up to $4,000 tax credit (used EV)
Do in 5-10 years
Replace drafty windows Up to $600 tax credit / $1,600 HEEHRA rebate
Replace thin exterior doors Up to $500 tax credit / $1,600 HEEHRA rebate
By December 2031, when rebates and credits are set to expire
Home renewable energy system
30% uncapped tax credit for rooftop solar array
30% uncapped tax credit for battery storage
Find more rebates and tax credits for your home at RewiringAmerica.org/app/IRA-Calculator
Save money, year after year
Residents can receive an average of $10,600 in incentives to electrify their household under
the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Tax credits have an annual cap ($1,200 for home improvements
and $2,000 for some appliances), so the framework below can help maximize your financial benefits.
SEPTEMBER 18-23, 2023
ICGOV.ORG/
CLIMATEFEST
I C G O V .O R G /S U B S C R I B E
S T A Y C O N N E C T E D !
S U B S C R I B E T O T H E A C T I O N M A T T E R S
M O N T H L Y N E W S L E T T E R
I O W A C I T Y C L I M A T E A C T I O N & O U T R E A C H S H A R I N G U P D A T E S , C E L E B R A T I N G S O L U T I O N S
City of Iowa City
410 E. Washington St.
Iowa City, IA 52240
Strand Associates, Inc.®
Wastewater Treatment Facility
Renewable Natural Gas Production and High Strength Waste Codigestion
Climate Action Commission Meeting
City of Iowa City, Iowa
September 11, 2023
Definitions
•WWTF:Wastewater treatment facility
•Biogas:A mixture of methane carbon dioxide, and other
gases produced by microorganisms at the WWTF
•RNG:Renewable Natural Gas (methane) produced from
WWTF biogas by removing carbon dioxide
and other trace gases; can be injected into the utility
natural gas transmission/distribution system
•IRA:Inflation Reduction Act
Project History –Biogas Project Development
•2018 Climate Action and Adaptation Plan
•2020 Methane Feasibility Study –Landfill and
Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF)
•2022 WWTF Digestion Facilities Plan
•2023 –Conceptual Design
Project Viability –Previous Methane Feasibility Study (2020)
•Indicated biogas reuse was not economically
viable
•What changed?
1.Biogas production error discovered
2.Inflation Reduction Act funding
Re -Evaluated the Following Options:
1.Building and process heat
2.Cogeneration –engines or microturbines
3.Renewable natural gas (inject into pipeline)
PLUS
High-strength waste addition to benefit local
business and generate more gas:
Industrial high-carbon wastes
FOG wastes
Digestion Facilities Plan (2022)
Project Viability –RNG Conceptual Design (2023)
•More detailed cost evaluations
•Demonstrated economic viability
•Total project cost ~ $15 million
•~10 to 15-year direct payback based on
conservative analyses; however, potential
for > 30-year payback (next slide)
•~ $3 million potential rebate through the
Inflation Reduction Act
Project Risk –RNG Market Conditions
$-
$0.500
$1.000
$1.500
$2.000
$2.500
$3.000
$3.500
$4.000
9/22/2017 5/30/2018 2/4/2019 10/12/2019 6/18/2020 2/23/2021 10/31/2021 7/8/2022 3/15/2023 11/20/2023 7/27/2024
RIN Market
D5 RIN ($) D3 RIN ($)
Avg. Assumptions:
D3 -$2.31
D5 -$1.37
High-Strength Waste Receiving
Help local industry
Produce more gas
Revenue from tipping fees and gas
Route Overview:
Approx. 2,300ft to utility
interconnect point.
Entire route within City of Iowa
City parcels.
RNG Pipeline
2018 Climate Action and Adaptation Plan –Actionable Items
•Action 1.4 -Increase on-site renewable energy systems and electrification. The project will
recover RNG that is currently flared, thus replacing an equivalent amount of fossil-source
natural gas.
•Task 2.7 -Reduce the City’s vehicle emissions footprint. While this project would not directly
result in achieving this action, the project would provide RNG, which the City could use directly
in CNG vehicles in the future to achieve this action item.
•Action 3.5 -Reduce waste at City facilities. The majority of the digester gas is currently wasted
via flaring. This project would allow recovery of the gas as a renewable fuel.
•Action 3.7 -Take action on a study to efficiently capture and use methane from wastewater
operations.The project provides the highest value to the City for capturing and beneficial using
the digester gas from wastewater treatment operations. Therefore, if this project is not
pursued, this action likely will not be implemented in the future unless conditions change
significantly.
Conditional Recommendations
Recommendation: Proceed with the RNG and high-strength waste project subject to following
assumptions and conditions:
1.This project will not directly reduce the City’s carbon footprint or GHG emissions but will reduce
global carbon footprint and GHG emissions.
2.The City is committed to these types of projects even if the financial payback is not as quick as
projected.There is risk associated with these types of projects, and a payback of greater than 15-20
years is a realistic possibility.
3.The City desires to reuse biogas from the WWTF as an important component of the CAAP
implementation.The RNG value, together with financial incentives available through the Inflation
Reduction Act, provide a financial opportunity that may not be available in the future.
4.The project would need to proceed as soon as possible (September 2024) to continue to be in
position to receive funding through the Inflation Reduction Act.
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City
410 E. Washington Street,
Iowa City, Iowa 52240City of Iowa City, IA
Neighborhood and
Development Services
2022 Annual Report
Mission
Neighborhood and Development Services (NDS)
works to create community and find solutions
that promote healthy neighborhoods and a
vibrant business community.
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 3
Cover photo: The Nest Iowa City, 123 E College Street
Contents
4 About Iowa City, Iowa
Community Profile 4
8 NDS Overview
NDS Management Team 8
9 Development Services
Urban Planning 9
Building Inspection 12
Highlights 19
20 Neighborhood Services
Housing Inspection Services 20
Housing Authority 24
Community Development 27
Housing Rehabilitation 29
32 Metropolitan Planning Organization
of Johnson County (MPOJC)
Major Projects 33
Grant Awards Received for Iowa City 34
Objectives and Performance Measures 35
City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org/NDS
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 522404
both staff and the general public in researching information. Taxi company licenses and driver authorization, dancing permits, outdoor service areas, cigarette licenses, beer/liquor licenses, and cemetery deeds are issued from the Clerk's office. City subdivision files, project files, the Domestic Partnership Registry, and an index of Council proceedings are also maintained in the office. The Clerk's office also provides staff and support for the Community Police Review Board.Community ProfileLocation & Transportation:The City serves as the County seat for Johnson County. The City lies at the intersection of Highways 80 and 380. The City is approximately 115 miles east of the City of Des Moines, 20 miles south of the City of Cedar Rapids and 55 miles west of the City of Davenport. The Iowa City Municipal Airport is a general aviation airport on the south side of the City. The Cedar Rapids Airport, located 20 miles from downtown Iowa City is served by a number of national and regional air carriers. Rail service is provided by the mainline of the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad.The
Iowa City Transit, Coralville Transit, and the University of Iowa’s Cambus system
provides public transportation to the metropolitan area.
35
Sources: US Census 2000, 2010, 2020
About Iowa City, Iowa
Iowa City is a dynamic and growing community with quality
medical care facilities, superior educational opportunities,
and stellar recreational and cultural amenities.
Community Profile
Location and Demographics
Iowa City serves as the County seat for Johnson County, and lies at the intersec-
tion of Highways 80 and 380 — approximately 115 miles east of Des Moines, 20
miles south of Cedar Rapids and 55 miles west of Davenport (Quad Cities). Iowa
City is the 5th most populous city in Iowa, and is positioned at the southern end
of the Iowa City-Cedar Rapids region, which has a combined population of over
450,000. Iowa City experienced a 10.3% increase in population since 2010. It is
anticipated that by 2050, the City’s population is projected to grow to 103,118, an
increase of over 28,000 residents.
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 5
About Iowa City, Iowa
Sources: US Census 2000, 2010, ACS 2017-2021 5-year estimate
Due to the large student population at the University of Iowa, the urbanized area
has proportionally more residents between 20 and 24 than other urbanized areas
in the state. Cities in the urbanized area have become more racially and ethni-
cally diverse in recent years. Iowa City and Johnson County are generally more
racially diverse than Iowa as a whole, but still have a majority White population.
Post Secondary Education, Fall 2022 # of Students
University of Iowa (a Big 10 University)31,317
Language Use in Iowa City % of Population
Language other than English spoken at
home (age 5+ years)
18.60%
Common languages the City provides translations for: Spanish, French,
Mandarin, Arabic
City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org/NDS
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 522406
About Iowa City, Iowa
Johnson County Mean Annual Wage and Percent of Total Employment:
Employment
The City’s major employers are a mix of corporate
headquarters, health care and education. Thanks to the
presence of a large university, Iowa City’s top employer is
the University of Iowa. Iowa City is home to national and
international Fortune 500 companies, small, family-owned
businesses, and emerging and advancing entrepreneurs
representing multiple industries.
Principal Employers - 2020 # of Employees
University of Iowa & University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics 29,860
Iowa City Community School District 2,289
Veterans Administration Medical Center 2,119
Hy-Vee Inc.1,348
Mercy Hospital 1,048
Procter and Gamble 976
ACT Inc. 885
City of Iowa City 731
NCS Pearson 719
Johnson County 612
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 7
About Iowa City, Iowa
Iowa City Area 2020 Recognition and Accolades
+Ranked #1 for Best College Town in America (Reviews.org)
+Named One of the Best Cities for Creatives (Thrillist.org)
+Ranked #4 Best Place to Live in America (Liveability.com, 2019)
+Iowa City earned the top score for municipal support of LGBTQ rights
(Human Rights Campaign’s 2018 Municipality Equality Index)
Fast Facts
+Total Area: 25.6 square miles
+Median Household Income: $51,925*
+Persons Living in Poverty: 26.8%
+Number of Households: 30,380
+Number of Housing Units: 33,074
+Owner-Occupied Units: 46.5%
+Rental-Occupied Units: 53.5%
+Median Value of Owner-Occupied Housing Units: $230,700
+Homeowner Vacancy Rate: 1.6%
+Rental Vacancy Rate: 4.9%
+Median Gross Rent: $1,030
* Includes householders under age 24 that may include students.
Sources: US Census Bureau, ACS 2022 5-year estimates
City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org/NDS
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 522408
At Glance
FY22 Budget
Employees
$42.9 million
46.30 FTE
NDS Overview
Neighborhood and Development Services (NDS) Administration is responsible for oversight
and support of the department’s four operating divisions, Administration, Development
Services, Neighborhood Services (including the Housing Authority), and the Metropolitan
Planning Organization of Johnson County (MPOJC). The revised budget for FY22 was $42.9
million due to the receipt of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and CARES Act funds. The
FY23 adopted budget is $18.7 million.
NDS Management Team (Total 46.30 FTE, includes 1.30 FTE Administration)
Tracy Hightshoe
Director
Development Services (13.30 FTE)Neighborhood Services (26.50 FTE)Metropolitan Planning Organization
of Johnson County (5.20 FTE)
Danielle Sitzman
Development Services Coordinator
Erika Kubly
Neighborhood Services Coordinator
Kent Ralston
Executive Director and IC
Transportation Planner
Building
Inspection Tim Hennes
Senior Building Inspector
Housing
Inspection Stan Laverman
Senior Housing Inspector
Emily Bothell
Senior Associate
Transportation Planner
Urban
Planning Anne Russett
Senior Planner
Iowa City
Housing
Authority
Rachel Carter
Housing Administrator
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 9
Development Services
The Development Services Division is respon-
sible for facilitating the development process
from comprehensive planning to annexation,
zoning and subdivision, site plan, building
permit, building inspections, and the final
certificate of occupancy. The Division is also
responsible for zoning code related inspec-
tions and enforcement; local administration
of state and federal regulations such as
floodplain management regulations; historic
preservation programs, administration of the
Sign Code, minor modification applications,
temporary use permits, and other local
permits; research, recommendations, and
developing code amendments to address City
Council and/or City Manager’s Office direc-
tives such as the Affordable Housing Action
Plan, the Climate Action Plan, and the Equity
Toolkit. The Division also interacts regularly
with other local organizations such as the
Iowa City Downtown District, the Iowa City
Homebuilders Association, the Iowa City Area
Association of Realtors, Friends of Historic
Preservation, and Neighborhood Associations.
Urban Planning
The Urban Planning staff promotes sustainable
growth and development within the City by applying
the vision, goals, and strategies of the Comprehensive
Plan and administers zoning, subdivision and historic
preservation regulations. The guiding principle of these
regulations and policies is to preserve and enhance
the best qualities of the City’s existing residential, com-
mercial, and employment areas while promoting new
development opportunities that create long-term value
for the community. The Division fulfills state statutory
requirements pertaining to zoning, development, and
historic preservation.
Urban Planning provides staffing for the following
boards and commissions, which are associated
with developmental regulations and zoning. Staffing
includes preparation of agendas and information
packets, notification letters, minutes, and preparation of
ordinances, resolutions and historic preservation certifi-
cates related to proposed construction, and attendance
at all meetings.
+The Planning and Zoning Commission is
charged with holding public discussions and
providing recommendations to City Council
on development-related applications including
Comprehensive Plan updates, annexations
and requests for rezonings, subdivisions and
code amendments.
+The Board of Adjustment reviews requests for
special exceptions, variances and other appeals
pertaining to the Zoning Code.
+The Historic Preservation Commission
conducts studies and implements regulations
designed to promote the preservation of historic
landmarks and districts. The primary duty of
the Historic Preservation Commission is to
review proposed building projects in historic and
conservation districts.
Staffs the following
boards/commissions:
+Planning and Zoning
Commission
+Historic Preservation
Commission
+Board of Adjustment
+Board of Appeals
City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org/NDS
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 5224010
Development Services Urban Planning Activities
Planning & Zoning Commission FY13 FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY22 Average
Annexations 1 3 2 1 0 1 0 1 1 2 1
Rezonings 29 19 29 14 20 26 16 6 9 8 18
Preliminary Plats 7 11 9 6 6 11 4 6 3 3 7
Final Plats 0 0 14 18 2 0 6 5 4 4 5
Code Amendments 11 11 3 4 9 5 3 6 6 6 6
Comprehensive Plan Amendments 6 2 2 4 3 3 2 0 2 2 3
Right of Way Vacations ---------3 3
County Zoning Items 2 3 2 4 6 0 5 8 7 3 4
Board of Adjustment FY13 FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY22 Average
Special Exceptions 13 11 16 10 8 7 6 13 11 15 11
Appeals 2 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1
Variances 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Development Activity Metrics FY13 FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY22 Average
Acres Annexed - - 19.8 18.6 0.0 7.9 0.0 35.29 3.6 76.52 20
Acres Zoned Residential - -125.5 119 13.7 171.0 80.0 72.1 37.2 60.95 85
Acres Zoned Commercial - -85.9 7.98 1.00 0.70 26.90 0 17.68 55.03 24
Acres Zoned Mixed-Use / RF
Crossings - - 35.1 2.48 25.21 5.08 5.30 2.75 5.90 0.13 10
Acres Zoned Commercial / Office --85.9 0.98 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 11
Residential Lots Final Platted /
Created - - 150 335 23 67 32 83 59 59 101
Commercial Lots Final Platted /
Created - -19 12 0 1 3 0 2 1 5
Historic Preservation Commission FY13 FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY22 Average
Project Reviews 93 108 83 86 90 102 100 96 94 105 96
Additional Landmarks 1 2 1 1 1 6 5 2 6 0 3
Additional properties in
historic/conservation districts 39 265 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 31
Properties rehabed, restored, or
converted through adaptive reuse - - -24 25 30 22 24 24 24 25
Urban Planning staff works with prospective applicants
to review requirements for new development and
construction and to create solutions for properties
that confront obstacles to development, renovation,
or reuse. Once an application is filed, staff reviews
the proposal, coordinates feedback from various
departments, and writes reports, including recommen-
dations to boards and commissions. Urban Planning
staff also participates in design review applications
for areas such as the Riverfront Crossings District. In
2020 one FTE was moved from Building Inspections
as a Development Specialist to Urban Planning as an
Associate Planner. This position continued to conduct
site plan reviews and floodplain management as well as
other Urban Planning activities.
2022 Urban Planning Activity
For the third year in a row, the overall current planning
case load activity in 2022 for Urban Planning work,
such as annexations, rezoning, and platting, was below
the running average. However, work on several in-fre-
quent and multi-year long-range planning projects was
completed. This included an update to the Southwest
District Plan, in anticipation of the extension of public
sewers. Long-range planning requires significant
engagement with the community, data analysis, and
drafting of multiple plan documents. Urban Planning
activity is tracked and reported on a fiscal year
(July-June) basis.
Annexation, the process by which land is added to the
City, occurs infrequently. Historically, most undeveloped
land is not annexed into the City by its owner until just
prior to its development. Property tax rates are usually
lower in the unincorporated County and land is often
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 11
Development Services
used for agricultural purposes up until the time
that is sold for development. Additionally, unlike
other cities, the 2008 recession did not result in a
large inventory of improved but not developed lots
in Iowa City.
Over the past 10 years the average is one event
adding between 10-20 acres of land. In 2022 a
large annexation of 76 acres occurred on the
west side of the city. This was for potential future
commercial development along IWV Road.
The number of rezonings, the process that allows
for changing the use of a property, remained low
for a third year in 2022. Only eight (8) rezonings
were completed in 2022 compared to the 10-year
average of 18. This is a slight decline from the year
before. Rezoning cases filed in 2022 included new
residential greenfield development, residential/
commercial infill development, redevelopment in
Riverfront Crossings, historic overlays, and existing
developed property to facilitate its redevelopment.
Previous years of abnormally heavy rezoning
activity occurred in 2013-2018 during which the
City itself initiated several rezonings to implement
a master plan for the Riverfront Crossings area and
the adoption of the Riverfront Crossing Form Based
Code. More recent redevelopment in the Riverfront
Crossing District has focused largely on multi-fam-
ily housing desirable to University of Iowa students.
Individual lots are created via the subdivision
platting process. New first-time development
of vacant land requires land to be platted to
create lots while re-development often occurs on
already created lots. 2022 had the lowest levels of
residential lot creation in more than 30 years. The
number of lots produced were well below the aver-
age lots platted from 2012 to 2021, which could
accommodate 128 single-family, 7 duplex, and 136
multi-family units annually. The chart below shows
residential lots subdivided by type from 2011
to 2021.
In addition, building permit activity continues to
outpace the creation of new lots which diminishes
the overall supply. If residential growth continues
at this pace, the City will only accommodate up
to 6,254 new residents by 2030, compared to
a projected demand of 10,240 new residents.
While redevelopment of existing lots can provide
additional housing through increased density, the
City will still likely experience unmet demand and
deplete its supply of all vacant lots in the process
unless lot creation and redevelopment
accelerates soon.
Subdivision platting in the County near the City’s
borders continued to remain high due to recent
changes in the County’s Comprehensive Planning
and Future Land Use Map that increased areas
for residential and commercial development in
the County. Such activity is regulated through
a shared agreement with the County called the
Fringe Area Agreement (FAA). Many of the appli-
cations in 2020 were out of compliance with the
existing agreement. In 2021, Staff completed the
process to update the FAA. This included analysis
of past land use patterns and projection of future
growth patterns to establish a growth boundary
area. The new agreement redefines the role of
each jurisdiction based on this growth boundary
area giving more control to the City closer to
its borders.
City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org/NDS
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 5224012
Development Services
Total Value of Construction (in millions)
10 Year
Average CY 2013 CY 2014 CY 2015 CY 2016 CY 2017 CY 2018 CY2019 CY2020 CY2021 CY2022
$188.1 $184.9 $152.6 $138.3 $388.4 $216.8 $192.8 $231.5 $87.3 $135.5 $152.7
-9.3%-17.5%-9.4%180.8%-44.2%-11.1%20.1%-62.3%55.2%12.7%
Iowa City has thirteen (13) Historic Preservation or
Conservation Districts which were established begin-
ning in the mid 1980s. Districts range in size from one
to more than twenty (20) blocks in size. The last District
was established in 2014 as the Goosetown/Horace
Mann Conservation District. Throughout these years and
since 2014, historic preservation activity has continued
in the form of historic landmark designation of individual
properties. Two landmarking applications were com-
pleted in 2022 including properties on Bowery Street and
E. Davenport Street. Once designated, exterior changes
to properties located within a District or landmarked are
reviewed by the Historic Preservation Commission. To
support properties designated as historic, the City pro-
vides grants and loans of up to $5,000 per property per
project for qualified exterior rehabilitation or preservation
projects under the Historic Preservation Fund Program.
The Program is funded with $42,000 from the General
Fund annually and fully utilized each year.
Building Inspection
The Building Inspections Services staff is responsible
for facilitating the site plan review process, building
permit review, building inspections, and final certificates
of occupancy. Building Inspection Services is also
responsible for enforcement of codes and ordinances
regulating the protection of the public health, safety and
general welfare as it relates to the built environment
and maintenance of existing structures. Review and
issuance of all permits for new construction, additions,
alterations, repairs, and signs are key functions.
Building Inspections Services enforces the following
construction codes:
+2018 International Building/Residential
Code (adopted with local amendments)
+2018 International Mechanical Code
(current State adopted code)
+2018 Uniform Plumbing Code (current
State adopted code)
+2018 International Fire Code (adopted
with local amendments)
+2017 National Electrical Code (current
State adopted code)
+2012 International Energy Conservation
Code (current State adopted code)
+Accessibility Code (current Federal and
State adopted code; local amendments
for visitability/adaptability)
In addition to the above codes, the Building
Inspection Services Office enforces the zoning,
reviews and approves sign permits, and pro-
vides key staff support for the Design Review
Committee. Building Inspections Services also
provides staffing for the Board of Appeals. The
Board of Appeals hears and decides appeals of
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 13
Development Services
orders, decisions or determinations made by City staff
relative to the application and interpretation of the Iowa
City Building, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Fire and
Housing Codes.
2022 Permit Activity
Iowa City requires building permits for new building
construction and most existing building repairs and
remodel projects. Data regarding the type of project
and its valuation is collected at that time. Valuation is
not building permit fee revenue or market value, but the
estimated average construction cost of a project based
on a standardized per square foot estimate using
typical construction practices. Building permit activity
is tracked and reported on a calendar year basis.
Construction continued to be impacted by the COVID19
pandemic which affected labor and manufacturing
activity, disrupted supply chains, raised construction
material costs, and created economic uncertainty for
builders and buyers. Acclerating inflation and rising
interest rates also impacted home sales. Permits
in most categories declined and were below the
10-year average.
1,851 total permits were applied for in calendar year
2022. This included construction related permits as well
as site plan, sign, liquor, and temporary use permits.
This is a decrease from 2,130 permits applied for in
2021 and below the 10-year average of 2,288 permits.
$152.7 million total value was reported for all permits
in calendar year 2022. Despite the decline in permits,
this was an increase in project valuation. The pandemic
year of 2020 was the worst year in project valuation
reported since the three years immediately following
the Subprime Mortgage Crisis and Great Recession
of 2008. During that year there was a 62% decline in
project values undertaken from the previous year, and
$97 million dollars less than the 10-year average valua-
tion. 2021 and 2022 permit activity made up for some
of this decline but 2022 was still $35 million below the
10-year average.
While permit activity during the pandemic in 2020 shows
a noticeable decline, there was an equally unusual
increase in the previous years from 2016 to 2018. During
that timeframe, construction activity jumped to more
than $388 million, more than double the previous 10-year
average at the time of $135 million. These swings
in activity largely reflect development interest in the
Downtown and Riverfront Crossings area. In addition, the
construction phase on large projects often also spans
several calendar years.
Historically, Iowa City building permit activity is
dominated by construction of three main categories:
1. Single-family Detached and Attached (Duplex)
Home Building: 97 new single-family detached
dwellings were applied for in calendar year 2022.
This is a decline from the previous year and below
the 10-year average. Over nearly the past 20 years,
new single-family detached home construction
has averaged 130 new units per year. Year to year
production has varied widely with annual rates
bottoming out at 80 units in 2011 and 2019 and
climbing back up to the mid 170s in between. The
highest number of new applications was 193 units
in 2003. The past year indicates a setback from the
previous three-year recovering trend.
1,851
Total permits applied for in 2022
A decrease from 2,130 in 2021
and below 10-year average of 2,288
Total 2022 permit value
$152.7 million
City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org/NDS
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 5224014
Development Services
In 2022, total project value of new single-family
housing construction was $40 million. The per unit
value in 2022 was $416,860. This is well above the
10-year average and the highest on record since
2003 and shows a continuation of the inflationary
trend identified in 2021. Compared to the Bureau
of Labor Statistics annual Consumer Prices Index
(CPI) and Construction Price Indexes from the US
Census Bureau’s Survey of Construction (SOP), new
single-family dwelling valuation per unit in Iowa
City follows the same generally increasing pace
of inflation. Year to year differences are greatest
between 2010 and 2016 where the local value
fluctuates widely. Local value is self-reported by
builders at the time of permit application. In the
same time period, permit activity also varied widely
indicating other changes in the local market. The
average trend line of the three measures are shown
to represent overall trends regardless of potential
misjudgments. Starting in 2011, the local value
trend line exceeds the percent increase of CPI
for the first time and begins to overtake the SOP
metric. This indicates that overall, construction
value inflation was greater than inflation in the
rest of the economy and a little bit more so in the
local construction market than the national one. All
three metrics indicate a rapid increase in inflation
from 2020-2021.
New duplex construction is a small portion of
the new single-family housing total. Only one (1)
permit for duplex construction was issued in 2022
for a total construction of two dwelling units. The
average number of duplex permits permits per
year from 2009-2022 is five (5). The highest year of
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 15
Development Services
duplex permit activity was 2011-2012 with nine (9)
and eight (8) permits per year respectively.
Similarly, alteration, remodel, and repair construc-
tion activity on existing residential buildings is a
small percentage of the overall residential project
valuation per year. Typical valuation of reinvest-
ment ranges from $5 million-$9 million annually.
That’s approximately 10-25% of the total amount of
residential valuation annually. In 2022, the amount
of reinvestment was 23% of the total valuation of
single-family construction, or $12.6 million.
City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org/NDS
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 5224016
Development Services
“The Rise at Riverfront Crossings” by Alan Light (licensed under CC BY 2.0)
2. New Multi-family Dwelling Construction: Housing that
contains more than two dwellings in one structure is con-
sidered multi-family construction. These dwellings may
be owned or rented such as townhomes, apartments,
or condominiums.
As mentioned in the Urban Planning summary, in 2013-
2014 the City initiated several rezonings to implement
a master plan for the Riverfront Crossings area and the
adoption of the Riverfront Crossing Form Based Code. This
is reflected in the uptick in new multi-family construction
permits and valuation in 2013-2017 for projects using the
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 17
Development Services
new zoning available to them to build new large buildings near downtown. The
Riverfront Crossings Form Based Code also continued to encourage the trend
for multi-family housing to be combined in multi-story buildings with other
uses such as retail, office, or hotel and categorized as “mixed-use” structures.
The valuation of multi-family or mixed-use projects is more dependent on
the scale or location of a development project than the overall number of
permits issued. Therefore, the trend line fluctuates more with number of
dwelling units than with permit numbers. Such projects often take more
than one construction season or permit year to complete with developers
finishing one before beginning another resulting in a ‘lumpiness’ or rise and
fall of valuation from one year to the next.
City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org/NDS
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 5224018
Development Services
Projects Completed or Underway Since Adoption of RFC Form Based
Code - 6/3/2014
Completed Address Date
The Rise (CA Ventures)435 S. Linn Street 2015
316 Madison (Graves)316 Madison Street 2015
Riverside West (Hannick)629 Riverside Drive 2015
Tate Arms (Clark)912 S. Dubuque Street 2015
Phase 1 (Hodge)602 S. Dubuque Street 2016
Sabin Townhomes 175 E. Harrison Street 2016
Orchard Court Lofts (Wade)627 Orchard Court 2017
Phase 2 (Hodge)620 S. Dubuque Street 2017
The Crossings (Miller)1301 S. Gilbert Street 2017
Hieronymus Square/The Edge 314 S. Clinton Street 2018
The Crossings (Miller)1141 S. Gilbert Street 2018
The Crossings (Miller)1201 S. Gilbert Street 2018
Breckenridge 707 S. Dubuque Street 2018
Del Ray Ridge (THF)628 S. Dubuque Street 2019
Phase 4 (Hodge)225 Prentiss Street 2019
The Crossings (Miller)1121 S. Gilbert Street 2019
Gilbane Development 700 S. Dubuque Street 2021-in progress
Approved-Not Started Address Date
Orchard Court-Part II (Wade)Benton Street/Orchard Court 2019
Pentacrest Garden Apartments (Clark)12 E. Court Street 2019
The 908 Group 315 E. Prentiss Street 2020
Scannell West Riverfront Riverside Drive/Myrtle Avenue 2020
All dwelling types combined: 357 total new dwelling units
(one- and two- family dwellings and multi-family dwellings) were issued in
calendar year 2022. This is an increase from 2021 but still well down from 505
new units in 2019 and 436 units which is the 10-year average.
3. All Other New Commercial Buildings: All other non-res-
idential construction is considered as the final category
of permit activity. This may include retail and services
buildings, industrial and manufacturing, healthcare, office,
and schools. Like multi-family construction, these projects
can be large in scale and value, tend to occur infrequently,
and are completed one at a time. The exception recently has
been the Iowa City School District’s implementation of their
10-year Facilities Master Plan beginning in 2015 to complete
construction projects ranging from new school construction
to renovation and expansion projects in all 27 schools in the
District. In late 2017, voters approved an estimated $192 mil-
lion bond package to fund the second half of the approved
10-year Facilities Master Plan with planned completion by
2023. In November 2021, voters approved extending the tax
levies to 2035 and 2051 to cover additional improvments
identified in the School District’s Facilities Master Plan 2.0.
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 19
Development Services
Preserved historic buildings on E. College StreetThe Nest Iowa City, property of The Tailwind Group
Highlights
Recent Accomplishments
Work in long-range planning, zoning, site, design
review, and building code and inspection services
supported continued development interest
throughout the city including:
+Adoption of a form-based zoning code for
a portion of the Southwest District where
a planned sewer extension will allow for
future greenfield development
+21 S. Linn Street - site plan review of
new 13-story residential building in
the Downtown
+Tailwinds - E. College Street - building
construction review to preserve historic
buildings and construct new 11-story
residential building
+Gilbane Project - design review, site review,
and building plan/construction review
of new 6-story residential building in the
Riverfront Crossings District
+Hired and on-boarded three new staff
members (20% of entire Division staffing)
due to turnover
The Tailwind Group rehabilitated
and preserved three 19th and
early 20th century buildings on
E. College Street, in Iowa City’s
downtown core. The building’s
later additions were removed in
the rear to construct an 11-story
multi-family residential building.
As part of the project, the prop-
erties were designated as Local
Historic Landmarks and a below
market lease provided to Riverside
Theatre to facilitate their move
and reinforce that Iowa City is the
Greatest Small City for the Arts!
Leasing for the residential building
began in the fall of 2022. The
developer paid a fee in lieu for the
affordable housing requirement,
an option under our tax increment
finance agreement, for the proj-
ect. The City used these funds
to purchase eight duplexes (16
homes) as part the South District
Homeownership Program.
City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org/NDS
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 5224020
Top and bottom: The Housing Fellowship single
family home rentals
Neighborhood Services
Staffs the following
boards/commissions:
+Housing and Community
Development Commission
The Neighborhood Services Division is respon-
sible for the administration of various housing
services, housing programs and revitalization
efforts that focus on sustaining healthy
neighborhoods. The Division provides hous-
ing inspection services and administers the
City’s federal Community Block Grant (CDBG),
HOME, Housing Choice Voucher and Public
Housing programs.
Housing Inspection Services
Housing Inspection Services (HIS) works with property
owners, managers, and tenants to ensure rental units
are in conformance with the Iowa City Housing Code.
There are close to 20,000 rental units in Iowa City
that get inspected annually or over a two-year period.
Housing Code language establishes minimum health
and safety standards necessary to promote the welfare
of tenants and the general public. HIS also enforces
certain zoning ordinances and responds to complaints
of nuisance-related ordinance violations such as tall
grass and weeds, snow, or inoperable vehicles.
Housing Code Changes – Radon
In January 2020, the City of Iowa City announced a new
policy requiring all single-family detached and duplex
rental properties to be tested for hazardous radon
levels as a step towards improved public health. The
ordinance, set to go into effect on July 1, 2020, was
delayed due to COVID-19 and began July 1, 2021.
The City remains committed to radon testing and mitiga-
tion as important health measures. The Iowa Department
of Public Health identifies radon as the No. 1 cause of
lung cancer among non-smokers. Iowa’s indoor radon
average of 8 pCi/L (picocuries per liter) is more than six
times the national average. The EPA recommends that all
Iowa homes be tested for radon and homes with indoor
levels of radon over 4 pCi/L be mitigated.
Due to the pandemic, the City delayed the new radon
requirements to reduce contact between staff and pub-
lic to help limit exposure and the spread of COVID-19.
Property owners were encouraged to use this extension
to schedule radon inspections and take the steps
needed for mitigation while units may be vacant. Radon
testing completed in 2020 was accepted to document
compliance with the new radon requirements that went
into effect on July 1, 2021.
The City has approximately 3,800 homes with rental
permits subject to the policy. Roughly 2,800 units
have been tested with another 1,000 to be tested by
July, 2023. We anticipate all properties subject to this
regulation that need to be mitigated will have the action
completed by January, 2024.
Neighborhood Stabilization Efforts in
University Impacted Neighborhoods
The State Legislature prohibited cities from adopting or
enforcing any regulation or restriction related to occu-
pancy of residential rental property that is based upon
the existence of familial or nonfamilial relationships
between the occupants of such rental property, effec-
tive January 1, 2018. This was the principle tool on how
many cities, including Iowa City, addressed occupancy
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 21
Neighborhood Services
of rental properties, especially in neighborhoods
surrounding the university.
In response to this change, the City implemented
various measures to 1) ensure single-family
detached structures and duplexes provide healthy
and safe living environments for all occupants;
2) maintain neighborhood characteristics and
housing options suitable for attracting a diverse
demographic in our older single-family neighbor-
hoods; and 3) prevent the overburdening of City
infrastructure and operational resources.
The City started tracking the number of rental
permits for single family and duplex dwellings in
University impacted neighborhoods in November
of 2017. As of June 2022, the City has not seen a
dramatic increase in the number of rental permits
for this housing type. The City also started track-
ing how many bedrooms were added in these
neighborhoods. Approximately 31 bedrooms have
been added to properties in these neighborhoods
since 2017. In this past year, one bedroom was
added in the Northside Goosetown neighborhood
and two in the Bowery neighborhood. The
following map and spreadsheet highlight the per-
centage of single family and duplex rental permits
in each neighborhood as of June 30, 2022 as well
as a recent history of activity compared to 2017.
Note: to standardize how the City tracks these
permits, in June of 2021 the single family and
duplex definition changed to match the zoning
code definition (one unit per lot for single family
or two units per lot for duplexes). The impact of
this change reduced the total # of properties in
various neighborhoods.
CY2022 HIS Stats
1,779
neighborhood complaints
90% resolved in 14 days.
Extended time to allow for removal of
ash trees lowered this number from
92% in CY2021.
19,276
rental units
New land use software implemented
in FY21 allows for more accurate
tracking of properties. The new
system allows multi-family condo
buildings to be tracked for rental
license purposes and removed from
the rental license rolls when no rental
units are present in those buildings.
This resulted in a slight decrease in
reported rental units.
Key Dates
12/19/2017
In addition to several zoning and housing codes changes, the City
adopted a Rental Permit Cap, Ordinance #17-4734, to prohibit addi-
tional rental permits issued for single-family or duplex dwellings in
neighborhoods that exceeded more than the 30% threshold.
1/1/2018
Effective date of State prohibition on any regulation or restriction
related to occupancy of residential property by familial status.
4/23/2019
State prohibits municipalities from adopting or enforcing rental
permit caps.
4/29/2019
City adopts rental permit moratorium for the following neighbor-
hoods: Northside, College Green, Bowery, Longfellow, Mark Twain,
RFC East, RFC West, Miller/Orchard and Brookland/Roosevelt,
Ordinance #19-4793.
1/21/2020
City repeals rental permit moratorium, Ordinance #20-4819.
7/1/2021
City begins enforcement of radon requirements.
1/19/2023
City repeals rental cap to come into compliance with State code,
Ordinance #23-4892.
City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org/NDS
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 5224022
Neighborhood Services
16%
18%
28%
54%
22%
65%
54%
54%
28%
28%
13%
68%
76%
17%
21%
26%
59%
19%
79%
53%
57%
29%
26%
14%
50%
76%Melrose
Emerald
Willow Creek
Miller Orchard
Brookland
Roosevelt
City Park
RFC East
Northside
Goosetown
College Green
Mark Twain
Longfellow
City High
RFC West
Bowery
Melrose
Emerald RFC West
Brookland
Roosevelt
2
1
¯
0 0.4 0.80.2 Miles
Percent of Single-Family & Duplex Units with a Rental Permit
Iowa City Rental Impact Area - Updated as of June 30, 2022 Created by: Emani Brinkman
College Green
Bedrooms added in UIA in Single Family or Duplex Units with Rental Permits
Rental Districts
University Impact Area
&XUUHQW% -XQH3222
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www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 23
Neighborhood Services
Historical Data for University Impacted Neighborhoods
Percent of Single-Family (SF) & Duplex Units with a Rental Permit
(November 2017-original and June 2020-2022)
Neighborhood
November
2017
SF/Duplex
Units
November
2017
Rental SF/
Duplex
Units
November
2017 %
Rental SF/
Duplex
Units
June 2020
SF/Duplex
Units
June 2020
Rental SF/
Duplex
Units
June
2020 %
Rental SF/
Duplex
Units
June 2021
SF/Duplex
Units
June 2021
Rental SF/
Duplex
Units
June
2021 %
Rental SF/
Duplex
Units
June 2022
SF/Duplex
Units
June 2022
Rental SF/
Duplex
Units
June
2022 %
Rental SF/
Duplex
Units
City High 1,143 153 13.4%1,136 165 15.0%1,131 154 13.6%1,136 155 13.6%
Melrose/Emerald 226 36 15.9%227 41 18.0%227 39 17.2%227 39 17.2%
Willow Creek 765 135 17.6%785 169 22.0%787 155 19.7%787 166 21.1%
City Park 544 117 21.5%544 117 22.0%545 112 20.6%544 101 18.6%
Mark Twain 1,138 318 27.9%1,133 330 29.0%1,129 327 29.0%1,135 323 28.5%
Longfellow 909 258 28.4%891 253 28.0%884 245 27.7%902 237 26.3%
Miller/Orchard 310 88 28.4%327 86 26.0%308 85 27.6%307 81 26.4%
Northside
Goosetown 1,200 646 53.8%1,190 636 53.0%1,181 624 52.8%1,187 631 53.2%
College Green 365 197 54.0%370 217 59.0%358 212 59.2%375 213 56.8%
Brookland/
Roosevelt 297 161 54.2%325 175 54.0%280 170 60.7%292 172 58.9%
Riverfront
Crossings East 43 28 65.1%43 29 67.0%29 21 72.4%28 22 78.6%
Riverfront
Crossings West 25 17 68.0%19 12 63.0%15 9 60.0%16 8 50.0%
Bowery 238 181 76.1%241 184 76.0%231 175 75.8%243 185 76.1%
Total 7,203 2,335 32.4%7,231 2,414 33.4%7,105 2,328 32.8%7,179 2,333 32.5%
City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org/NDS
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 5224024
Neighborhood Services
$
Cross Park Place, a Housing First project of Shelter House
Housing Authority
The Iowa City Housing Authority (ICHA) acts as a com-
munity leader for affordable housing, family self-suf-
ficiency, and homeownership opportunities. ICHA
provides information and education, housing assis-
tance, and public and private partnership opportunities.
Housing Choice Voucher Program
ICHA administers a total of 1,568 vouchers consisting of
1,166 unrestricted vouchers, 100 Non-elderly Disabled
(NED) Vouchers, 95 Veterans Affairs Supportive
Housing (VASH) vouchers, 78 Mainstream Vouchers, 69
Emergency Housing Vouchers, and 60 Project-Based
Vouchers for Cross Park Place and 501. These vouchers
serve households not only in the City of Iowa City, but
also throughout Johnson County, Iowa County, and
Washington County North of Highway 92.
94%
ICHA voucher
utilization rate
(81.47% statewide
average)
During 2022:
$8.1 million
ICHA Housing
Assistance Payments
+In 2022, ICHA continued its partnership with
Shelter House with the addition of 36 Project
Based Vouchers at the 501 Project.
+Since the start of Calendar Year 2016, the
ICHA has added a total of 181 new vouch-
ers and vouchers serving persons experi-
encing homelessness. These allocations
were competitive and the ICHA partnered
with Shelter House when applying for the
new vouchers. In 2022, ICHA applied for 18
Stability Vouchers in conjunction with Shelter
House to serve households experiencing homeless-
ness with significant barriers.
+ICHA paid out $8.1 million in Housing Assistance
Payments during 2022. This primarily consists of
payments to local landlords who rent to voucher holders,
but also includes escrow savings deposits for Family
Self-Sufficiency participants.
Voucher Assistance
Form of Assistance # of Vouchers
Housing Choice Vouchers 1,166
Non-elderly Disabled (NED) Vouchers 100
Veterans Supportive Housing (VASH)95
Mainstream 78
Emergency Housing Vouchers 69
Project Based Vouchers 60
Total 1,568
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 25
Neighborhood Services
Household Characteristics (All Relevant Programs)
Total Families as reported to HUD: September 1, 2020 — December 31, 2021.
Source: HUD’s Resident Characteristics Report (RCR)
Count % of Total
Family Type by Head-of-Household (HOH)
Disabled and/or Elderly HOH 815 58%
Non-Elderly/Non-Disabled HOH 597 42%
Total 1,412 100%
Family Composition by Household
Households without children 782 55%
Households with Children 630 45%
Total 1,412 100%
Race by HOH
White HOH 664 47%
Black/African American HOH 706 50%
All Other Races HOH 42 3%
Total 1,412 100%
Ethnicity by HOH
Non-Hispanic HOH 1341 95%
Hispanic HOH 71 5%
Total 1,412 100%
Voucher Distribution :
Point -in -Time count 1/4/2022: Of the total active vouchers, 975 were utilized in Iowa City (71%), 221 in Coralville (16%), 102 in North Liberty (7%), and 77 (6%) in other
Johnson County Municipalities or port-outs.
Less than 1% of assisted households (total = 14) report Family Investment Program (FIP) as their sole source of income. FIP provides temporary financial and other
assistance to low income families with children while they move toward self-sufficiency.
Voucher Distribution
Point-in-Time count 2/24/2023: Of the total active vouchers, 1,013
were utilized in Iowa City (68%), 178 in Coralville (12%), 93 in North
Liberty (6%), and 127 (8%) in other Johnson County Municipalities
or port-outs.
Public Housing and City-Owned
Affordable Housing
Public housing provides decent and safe rental housing for low-
income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. Iowa City
currently owns 86 public housing units throughout the City that are
managed by ICHA staff. Units are located at scattered sites and
constructed to conform and blend into existing neighborhoods.
Five of those units, located at The Chauncey in downtown Iowa
City, were added to the City’s affordable housing portfolio in 2020.
ICHA also manages 10 units of City-owned affordable housing
at Peninsula Apartments and recently acquired six units at
Augusta Place.
Household Characteristics (All Relevant Programs)
Total Families as reported to HUD: October 1, 2021 — January 31,
2023
Source: HUD’s Resident Characteristics Report (RCR)
Family Type by
Head-of-Household (HOH)
Count % of Total
Disabled and/or Elderly HOH 834 57%
Non-Elderly/Non-Disabled HOH 622 43%
Total 1,456 100%
Family Composition by Household Count % of Total
Households without children 824 57%
Households with Children 632 43%
Total 1,456 100%
Race by HOH Count % of Total
White HOH 670 46%
Black/African American HOH 743 51%
All Other Races HOH 43 3%
Total 1,456 100%
Ethnicity by HOH Count % of Total
Non-Hispanic HOH 1383 95%
Hispanic HOH 73 5%
Total 1,456 100%
City-Owned Affordable Housing
Housing Type # of Units
Public Housing 86
Peninsula Apartments 10
Augusta Place 6
Total 102
City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org/NDS
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 5224026
Neighborhood Services
1310 FOSTER RD.
IOWA CITY, IOWA
Fully accessible
Elevator
Covered off-street parking available
Washer & dryer in unit
Central air
Intercom system for restricted entry to
building
Tenant pays all utilities
PeninsulaNeighborhood
No smoking in building, including
common areas and apartment
For more information, contact Patricia MacKay
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA | 319-887-6069
1, 2, & 3 bedroom accessible apartments
Household income restricted to those under
60% median income by household size:
Household Size
1
2
3
4
60% Median income
$40,200
$45,960
$51,720
$57,420
INCOME LIMITS Effective 6/28/2019
FOR RENTAFFORDABLE HOMES
FEATURES
Affordable units in the Peninsula
neighborhood, 1310 Foster Rd, Iowa City
Family Self-Sufficiency Program
The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program promotes
self-sufficiency and asset development by providing
supportive services to participants to increase their
employability, to increase the number of employed
participants, and to encourage increased savings through
an escrow savings program.
In 2022, FSS served 221 households, 92% of which have
an escrow savings account and 59% of which have
increased income. The average escrow savings balance
is over $6,800. In 2022 the program saw 40 FSS gradu-
ates who accomplished their program goals and received
full access to funds in their escrow savings account.
FSS Program Statistics
Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program
Total participants = 221 Count % of Total
Participants with escrow savings account 203 92%
Participants with increased income 152 69%
FSS Graduates in Calendar Year 2022 40 -
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 27
Neighborhood Services
New roof at the NCJC Broadway
Neighborhood Center
Community Development
Community Development is committed to providing low-to-moderate income
Iowa City residents with access to safe and affordable housing, jobs and ser-
vices to promote the general economic prosperity and welfare of Iowa City. This
is accomplished by coordinating efforts with local agencies, businesses, non-
profit organizations and other community partners, and by administering and
coordinating activities relating to city, state and federal housing and community
and economic development programs.
CDBG/HOME
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program provides federal
funds for a variety of community and economic development activities. Staff
makes assessments of community employment opportunities, housing, and
services for low- and moderate-income residents, and uses CDBG funds to fulfill
identified needs. CDBG projects completed in FY22 include:
+Shelter House, DVIP and Neighborhood Centers of
Johnson County (NCJC) – Provided public service funds to operate
shelter and child care facilities ($124,000)
77% of CDBG beneficiaries in FY22 were below 30% of the Area Median
Income (AMI). 93% of CDBG beneficiaries in FY22 were below 80% AMI.
The HOME Investment Partnership (HOME) program is another feder-
ally funded program through the US Department of Housing & Urban
Development (HUD). The program provides safe, decent, affordable housing.
HOME Projects completed in FY22 include:
+GreenState Credit Union – Established a partnership to provide down
payment assistance for low-income homebuyers, and closed on the
first property.
+The Housing Fellowship – Rehabilitated affordable rental units serv-
ing four households
City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org/NDS
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 5224028
Neighborhood Services
100% of HOME beneficiaries reported in FY22 were below 60% AMI.
NDS staff working in conjunction with the City’s Office of Equity and
Human Rights completed the City’s Fair Housing Choice Study, an
Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice on August 20, 2019.
The study is an assessment of Iowa City’s laws, ordinances, statutes
and administrative policies as well as local conditions that affect the
location, availability and accessibility of housing. The development
of the study is part of the consolidated planning process required by
all entitlement communities, such as Iowa City, that receive annual
housing and community development funds from the U.S. Department
of Housing and Urban Development. The study includes an analysis
of barriers and impediments to fair housing choice. The study can be
found online at www.icgov.org/ActionPlan.
Aid to Agencies
Community Development staff coordinate with the United Way of
Johnson and Washington Counties as well as the Housing and
Community Development Commission to provide funds for human
service agencies.
+In FY22, $595,250 in local funds and $124,000 in CDBG public
service funds were allocated to 21 agencies which served more
than 28,838 Iowa City residents. Free Lunch Program served
nearly 30,000 meals to low-income individuals and Table to
Table, a food rescue organization, provided 1.8 million pounds
of food to area pantries and low income households.
COVID-19 Response and Funding Activities
In FY21, Neighborhood Services allocated CDBG-CV funding to prevent,
prepare for, and respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Funds were
awarded to public service and economic development activities as part
of a community response to the pandemic including emergency housing
assistance, operational funding for local nonprofits, and small business
assistance. The City continues to
work with community partners to get
needed funds to our residents and
businesses most impacted by the
pandemic. The City has partnered
with several organizations including
Shelter House, CommUnity Crisis
Services and Food Bank, Center for
Worker Justice, East Central Iowa
Council of Governments, Iowa City
Area Business Partnership and
Community CPA.
+Emergency Housing Assistance: $616,000 was allocated for
emergency housing payments. The program was initially admin-
istered by CommUnity Crisis Services and Food Bank and is
currently administered by Shelter House. A total of 336 households
were served in FY21 and FY22.
+Small Business Assistance: $424,000 was allocated for small
business assistance administered in partnership with ECICOG.
Funds served 27 Iowa City businesses impacted by COVID-19
with grants up to $15,000. Of those, 22 of the 27 businesses
were owned by women or people of color. Eligibility required that
all businesses retain jobs held by low to moderate-income (LMI)
employees or qualified as a HUD-defined microenterprise owned
by an LMI person.
+Nonprofit Assistance: $555,417 was allocated to 17 different
projects including homeless services and prevention, mental health
services, child care services, eviction prevention, and food assis-
tance. A total of 13,017 were served in Iowa City through activities
completed in FY21 and an additional 4,376 were served in FY22.
74% of CDBG-CV beneficiaries reported in FY22 were below 30% of the
Area Median Income (AMI). 99.9% of CDBG-CV beneficiaries in FY22 were
below 80% AMI.
$616,000
allocated for emergency
housing payments
336 total households
served in FY21 and FY22
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 29
Neighborhood Services
In the spring of 2022, the City partnered with
Kirkwood Community College and the Greater
Iowa City Home Builders Association to offer its
first Residential Construction Confidence Course
for Women. Vacant homes were rehabilitated for
the South District Program.
City inspector Doug Black
demonstrates flooring techniques
Housing Rehabilitation
The Housing Rehabilitation program works to help
residents maintain and update their homes by providing
financial assistance to income-eligible homeowners.
The availability of affordable, low or no-interest loans
provides lower income homeowners the opportunity
to make repairs and improve energy efficiency at their
homes which ultimately maintains Iowa City’s housing
stock. Funding is available through the federally funded
CDBG and HOME programs, as well as locally funded
General Rehabilitation and Improvement Program
(GRIP) and Healthy Homes Program.
+22 homes were completed through the CDBG/
HOME owner-occupied rehab program and GRIP
Program in FY22.
+16 rehabs were completed through the Healthy
Homes program to-date.
UniverCity and South District Programs
In 2011, the City received a state grant to provide
rehabilitation assistance to convert former rental
homes near the campus, complete renovations and sell
the homes to income eligible owner-occupants with a
deed restriction to keep the homes owner-occupied for
a set period of years. The City continued this program
after grant funding ended and to date has purchased,
renovated and sold 70 homes in the neighborhoods
surrounding the downtown and the University of Iowa.
Approximately $50,000 in rehabilitation was spent
for each home. This represents a total investment of
over $3.4 million in renovations in University impacted
neighborhoods since 2011. The City worked with area
lenders to purchase the homes and repaid the funds
when the home sold.
In FY20, Neighborhood Services began a similar
program in the the South District Neighborhood with
the purchase of a duplex at 1232/1234 Sandusky Drive.
The property was purchased, renovated, converted to
a two-unit condominium, and sold as affordable own-
er-occupied housing. The program is partnered with
federal HOME funds to provide downpayment assis-
tance to income qualified homebuyers. Combined, the
first two buyers had rented in the neighborhood for over
21 years. Two additional duplexes became available
for purchase at 2129/2131 Taylor Drive and 2021/2023
Taylor Drive. Of the initial six homes in the program,
four have been sold, one is under a purchase agree-
ment and one is available for sale. Staff is working with
interested applicants to secure financing to acquire
the home. All homebuyers must complete homebuyer
counseling approved by HUD before acquisition.
City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org/NDS
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 5224030
Neighborhood Services
Updated kitchen in South
District home on Taylor Drive
In 2021, the City received $1.8 million in funds through
an affordable housing fee-in-lieu payment from the
Tailwind Development Group as a part of a downtown
construction project. The City used about $1.5 million
of that fund to acquire eight duplex properties in the
South District for a total of 16 units. The City hopes to
remodel the units and sell them as affordable home-
ownership through the South District Program. The City
will serve as a landlord until the units naturally become
vacant. Units will be remodeled with local funds once
both sides of a duplex become vacant. The City antic-
ipates use of HOME funds to provide down payment
assistance to eligible applicants
Affordable Housing Projects
The City invested $11,215,950 in affordable housing
in FY22 using federal, state and/or local funds. The
FY22 Year End Housing Report can be found in the
Appendix that identifies all housing activities completed
or initiated in FY22. 2,410 affordable rental units/house-
holds and 27 owner-occupied homes were created or
assisted. All activities completed met one or more the
following housing goals:
1. To invest City and federal CDBG/HOME funds to
create and/or preserve affordable homes, both
rental and owner‐occupied housing;
2. To support our most vulnerable residents,
especially those experiencing homelessness
or at risk of homelessness, maintain safe,
affordable housing;
3. To ensure equitable growth for all Iowa City
residents and minimize displacement; and
4. To support innovation in housing and
streamline processes
In FY2016, the City created an Affordable Housing Fund
which contributes towards the development of afford-
able housing throughout the City. The City allocated
$1,000,000 to the fund annually from FY20-FY23. The
funds are allocated based on a distribution formula
approved by Council in 2019.
The South District Program was
the recipient of the 2020 Housing
Innovation Award from the Iowa
Finance Authority!
Testimonial from the South District First buyer in the program
“My mother and I both have small, fixed incomes and had a very high rent burden,
while neither of us had access to any form of rent assistance. We looked at the
information about the program online and I decided to apply immediately!
I’ve been worried for over a decade about my mother’s vulnerability to becoming
homeless, physically struggling to maintain full time work to pay rent at age 79 and
my inability to do anything to help her! I also feared being in the same situation myself
as rent continues to increase faster than my SSDI income. I had no expectation of
being able to purchase a home with an income of just $23,000 per year. My new
housing cost has been reduced from $675 per month in rent to just $400 for the new
mortgage and property tax. In addition, my mom now shares the home with me and
doesn’t have to worry about any mortgage or rent, saving her $700 per month! This
program has lifted that huge burden of work and worry from both of us!”
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 31
Neighborhood Services
1. 70% to the Housing Trust Fund, which includes the Low-Income Housing Tax
Credit (LIHTC) set-aside
2. 7.5% to an Opportunity Fund (former Land Banking Fund)
3. 7.5% to the Healthy Homes program
4. 10% to programs to help tenants secure housing. 70% is dedicated to a secu-
rity deposit program and 30% to a landlord risk mitigation fund (to be created).
If a balance at end of year, the balance converts to the Opportunity Fund.
5. 5% will be reserved for emergent situations. If a balance at end of year, the
balance converts to the Opportunity Fund.
The City purchased its first vacant lot with Opportunity Funds in the Lindemann
Subdivision, Part 8. The lot is designed for six townhouse units. The land will be
used for future affordable housing through a proposed project in partnership with
Better Together 2030 that will incorporate innovative 3-D printing practices.
Over $11m
invested in affordable
housing in FY22
+ 2,410 Rentals+ 27 Owner-occupied homes
2129/2131 Taylor Drive
The City invested $35,000 in each unit.
Rehabilitation work included a new roof,
interior paint and trim, updated kitchen
and bathrooms, an added bedroom in
the basement, and resurfaced driveway.
Sustainability improvements included
a new high effiency furnace and air
conditioner, air source heat pump water
heater, Energy Star rated appliances,
new windows and doors, and long life-
cycle flooring. At the time of this report,
2131 Taylor was sold and 2129 Taylor is
available for sale.Energy efficient New interior $35K invested per unit
City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org/NDS
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 5224032
Metropolitan Planning
Organization of Johnson
County (MPOJC)
The Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) of Johnson County is responsible for fulfilling
state and federal requirements necessary to receive transportation capital and operating funds;
conducting transportation and traffic studies related to public and private development projects;
providing traffic data collection and analysis services, preparing and administering transporta-
tion-related grants; and serving as a body for regional policy and project-related discussions.
MPOJC’s goal is to ensure the strategic use of public investments
and policies for the creation of a safe, efficient, and equitable transpor-
tation network that enhances economic opportunity and growth while
preserving the environment and residents’ quality of life.
The following formal documents are required to be completed and approved by
the Federal Highway Administration, Federal Transit Administration and/or Iowa
Department of Transportation. MPO staff provide planning, programming, and
administrative efforts to complete these documents to ensure that Iowa City remains
eligible to receive federal transportation funding, including transit capital and opera-
tion funds, streets and trails infrastructure
funds, and discretionary grant funds.
Document FY 2018 FY 2019 FY 2020 FY 2021 FY 2022 FY 2023
Projected
Long Range Transportation Plan (required every 5 yrs.)----X -
Transportation Planning Work Program X X X X X X
Passenger Transportation Plan X X X X X X
Transportation Improvement Program X X X X X X
Staffs the following
boards/commissions:
+Urbanized Policy Board
+Rural Policy Board
+Transportation Technical
Advisory Committee
+Regional Trails &
Bicycling Comittee
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 33
MPOJC
American Legion Rd pedestrian refuge across from Hoover Elementary School
Cyclist and companions at Riverfront Crossings Park Madison Street bike lane
Major Projects
Bike and pedestrian facilities were completed or
enhanced as directed by the adopted Iowa City Bike
Master Plan. Examples include:
+4-to-3 lane conversion and addition of bike lanes
on Madison Street between Market Street and
Court Street - completed 2022
+Buffered bike lanes and 10-foot sidepath on
American Legion Road, east of Scott Boulevard.
+Pedestrian refuge island on American Legion
Road at Barrington Road
+Installation of bike lane signs for Rohret Road
bike lanes, from Mormon Trek Boulevard to
Sedona Street
City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org/NDS
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 5224034
MPOJC
Grant Awards Received for Iowa City
Grant awards are pursued to help fund and achieve Iowa City’s Capital Improvements Program and Transit Operating Assistance.
FY 2018 FY 2019 FY 2020 FY 2021 FY 2022 FY 2023 Estimate
$1,487,897 Federal
Transit Grant*
$1,582,896 Federal
Transit Grant*
$1,752,119 Federal
Transit Grant*
$1,810,347 Federal
Transit Grant*
$1,822,924 Federal
Transit Grant*
$2,799,804 Federal
Transit Grant*
$3,750,000 STBG
funds for Dodge
Street Reconstruction
$1,011,360 STBG
funds for Burlington St
Pavement Rehab/Widen
$1,315,860 STBG
funds for Benton
Street Rehabilitation
$2,400,000 STBG
funds for Taft
Avenue Reconstruction
$438,000 TAP
funds for HWY 6
Trail Construction
$939,866 Federal
CRRSAA Transit Grant*
$520,000 TAP
funds for HWY 6
Trail Construction
$1,000,000 STBG-HBP
funds for Gilbert St
Bridge Replacement
$5,109,870
Federal CARES Act
Transit Grant*
$444,000 STBG-HBP
funds for 2nd Ave
Bridge Replacement
$4,597,815 Federal ARP
ACT Transit
*Includes all planning & legal documents, grant preparation & administration, & IDOT/FTA reporting
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 35
MPOJC
Objectives and Performance Measures
Transportation Safety
Iowa City’s transportation network is designed
and maintained to enhance the safety and
security of all users.
All reported collisions dating back to Calendar Year
(CY) 2017 are reflected in the following tables. Vehicle colli-
sions include those where property damage exceeded $1,000
or where an injury occurred. CY20 and CY21 collisions are not
typical due to changes in traffic patterns related to COVID-19.
Objective: Zero fatalities resulting from vehicle collisions,
including collisions involving bicycles or pedestrians
Transportation Safety (All Collisions)
Collision CY 2017 CY 2018 CY 2019 CY 2020*CY 2021 CY 2022
Total Collisions 1,461 1,424 1,363 714 1,210 1,198
Fatality 3 0 2 1 1 1
Major Injury 17 17 9 13 14 12
Minor Injury 102 116 92 70 103 102
Property Damage Only 1,095 1,073 1,065 521 928 922
Possible/Unknown Injury 244 218 195 109 164 161
*Decrease in observed collisions is due to the change in traffic volumes due to COVID-19
Transportation Safety (Bicycle & Pedestrian Collisions)
Collision CY 2017 CY 2018 CY 2019 CY 2020*CY 2021 CY 2022
Total Collisions 53 58 43 27 32 50
Fatality 1 0 0 0 0 0
Major Injury 4 5 3 5 2 6
Minor Injury 24 28 28 13 23 29
Property Damage Only 1 0 0 1 2 1
Possible/Unknown Injury 23 25 12 8 5 14
*Decrease in observed collisions is due to the change in traffic volumes due to COVID-19
City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org/NDS
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 5224036
MPOJC
Vehicle Miles and Emissions
Iowa City strives to build a well-connected
transportation network with coordinated land-
use patterns to reduce travel demand, miles
traveled, and energy consumption.
Objective: Reduce vehicle miles traveled and subsequent
greenhouse gas emissions
Vehicle Miles Traveled & CO2 Emissions Per Capita
-CY 2017 CY 2018 CY 2019 CY 2020 CY 2021 CY 2022*
Total Vehicle Miles
Traveled Per Capita 4,760 4,728 4,803 4,126 4,695 N/A
Metric tonnes of Vehicle
CO2e Per Capita 2.09 2.08 2.10 1.82 2.02 N/A
*VMT data not yet available from Iowa DOT for calendar year 2022
Travel to Work
Iowa City’s transportation network offers
multi-modal options that are affordable
and accessible.
Objective: Increase the mode split for those
who commute to work by walking, biking, or
using public transit
Primary means of travel by all workers 16 years or older (%)
-CY 2017 CY 2018 CY 2019 CY 2020 CY 2021 CY 2022*
Drove alone 58.0 60.0 58.9 58.6 59.3 N/A
2 or more person carpool 8.4 8.0 8.7 7.5 7.3 N/A
Transit 8.6 8.4 8.7 7.8 6.5 N/A
Bike 3.5 3.4 3.6 2.8 2.8 N/A
Walked 15.7 14.3 14.3 14.5 14.0 N/A
Taxi, Motorcycle and
other means 1.6 1.8 1.6 1.9 1.8 N/A
Worked at Home 4.2 4.0 4.2 7.0 8.4 N/A
Source: U.S Census Bureau, 5-year American Community Survey data
*Data not yet available for calendar year 2022
Mode Split - Commuting to Work: Includes all workers 16 years or older by primary means of
travel to work
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 37
Appendix
City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org/NDS
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 5224038
Appendix
Total Funds Available for Affordable
Housing in FY22: $11,215,950
Total Funds Spent in FY22: $10,431,377 1) Invest City and federal CDBG/HOME funds to create and/or preserve affordable homes, both rental and owner-occupied housing;
Number of Affordable Rental
Units/Households Created or Assisted*:2,410
Number of Owner-Occupied Units Created
or Assisted*: 27 3) Ensure equitable growth for all Iowa City residents and minimize displacement; and
*Reports units completed in FY22 with FY22 or prior year funds
1) Invest City and federal CDBG/HOME funds to create and/or preserve affordable homes, both rental and owner-occupied housing.
FY22 City of Iowa City Affordable Housing Fund ($1,000,000). $650,000 - $1,000,000 allocated annually Action Plan #5. City Council approved annual distribution formula, revised July 2019:
Project Name
City General Funds, Distribution
Formula:Project Type Funds Allocated Project Status Funds Leveraged
Households/
Units Assisted
Income Level
Assisted FY22 Funds Spent Notes/Status
Housing Trust Fund Annual Contribution Affordable Housing Fund (50%)Supportive housing for chronically
homeless $500,000 Underway $7,335,791 42 Less than 50% AMI $169,789
Two projects were completed in FY22. HTFJC awarded a total of $1,863,000 to
the 501 Project including $771,389 from the City of Iowa City across three years
($250,000 in FY20; $475,000 in FY21; $46,389 in FY22). This project provides
permanent supportive housing for 36 individuals. HTFJC also provided a total of
$296,515 including $123,400 of CIty funds to the Amhurst Fairweather Lodge
which serves six men with chronic mental health issues. The remaining FY22
funds have been allocated to DVIP and Inside Out Reentry.
LIHTC Annual Allocation Affordable Housing Fund (20%) Affordable Rental $200,000 Deferred $0 0 NA $0
The Nex Senior LIHTC project was awarded funds through the Iowa Finance
Authority (IFA). The project will receive FY20 and FY21 HTFJC LIHTC funds. If
FY22 LIHTC funds are not allocated after two rounds, they may be made
available for non-LIHTC projects. HTFJC authorized 5% for administrative fees.
HTFJC receives remaining funds when eligible project proceeds.
Opportunity Fund*Affordable Housing Fund (7.5%)Various $75,000 Underway NA -Less than 80% AMI $36,166
$48,000 was allocated to supplement the security deposit assistance program
through CommUnity Crisis Services and Food Bank. Accomplishments are
reported under security deposit assistance.
Healthy Homes Affordable Housing Fund (7.5%) Housing Rehab $75,000 Underway $0 6 Less than 80% AMI $6,705 Six households assisted in FY22. Four were homeowners and two were renters.
Three households were <30% AMI.
Security Deposit Assistance*Affordable Housing Fund (7%)Rental Assistance $70,000 Ongoing NA 212 Under 50% AMI $136,166 Increased allocation in FY22 to $140,000 with resources from the opportunity
fund.
Landlord Risk Mitigation Affordable Housing Fund (3%)Rental Assistance $30,000 Deferred NA NA NA $0 Staff continuing to work with Johnson County Local Homeless Coordinating
Board in FY23 to establish.
Emergent Situations Affordable Housing Fund (5%)Various $50,000 Completed NA 270 NA $41,250
In FY22 $17,500 was expended for weatherization of Forest View mobile homes
and $23,750 was expended on staffing for CWJ to assist households with
applications for rental assistance.
*Allocated additional funds from prior years $1,000,000 $7,335,791 530 $390,076
Affordable Housing Goals:
City of Iowa City Affordable Housing - FY22 Year End Report
2) Support our most vulnerable residents, especially those experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness, maintain safe, affordable housing;
4) Support innovation in housing and streamline processes
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 39
Appendix
Project Name Funding Source Project Type Funds Allocated Project Status
Households
Assisted
FY22 Funds
Spent
Eviction/Foreclosure Prevention Program - IEDA CARES Act Funding (COVID) Emergency Housing Payments $370,000 Ongoing --
FY22 Housing Rehabilitation Projects Completed Action Plan #1. Continue to fund existing housing programs.
Project Name Funding Source Project Type Funds Allocated FY22 Funds Spent
# Units
Rehabilitated
GRIP Local Funds Owner-occupied Rehab $200,000 $157,088 5
South District Local Funds/HOME Homeownership $120,000 $83,750 0
HOME Owner-occupied Rehab & Rental Rehab.HOME Owner-occupied/Rental Rehab $90,000 $0 0
CDBG Owner-occupied Rehab CDBG Owner-occupied Rehab $285,000 $279,513 17
$695,000 $520,351 22
FY22 CDBG/HOME Housing Projects Completed (Beneficiaries reported when project is completed)
Project Name Funding Source Project Type Funds Spent Funds Leveraged
Households/
Units Assisted
The Housing Fellowship - Rental Rehab HOME Affordable Rental $87,034 $46,130 4
CIC/GreenState - Downpayment Assistance HOME Homeownership $20,000 $154,287 1
THF CHDO Operations HOME Operations (Rental)$24,000 $0 NA
HOME Administration HOME Administration $63,029 $0 NA
$194,063 $200,417 5
2) Support our most vulnerable residents, especially those experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness, maintain safe, affordable housing
ICHA Programs, Calendar Year 2022 The jurisdiction of the ICHA includes the following Counties: Johnson, Iowa and Washington (north of Hwy 92, but not within Washington City limits), unless noted.
Project/Program Name Project Type Vouchers Authorized
ICHA Owned &
Managed Units
Households
Assisted CY22 Funds Spent Income Limits
Housing Choice Vouchers Affordable Rental 1,215 NA 1,514 $7,462,306 Under 50% AMI
VASH Vouchers (reserved for veterans)Affordable Rental 95 NA 63 $324,804 Under 50% AMI
HUD Mainstream Vouchers (chronically homeless with a
disabling condition)Affordable Rental 78 NA 53 $438,510 Under 50% AMI
Emergency Housing Vouchers Affordable Rental 69 NA 52 $404,144 Under 50% AMI
Public Housing Affordable Rental NA 86 74 $697,123 Under 80% AMI
Other - Affordable Housing Under ICHA Management Affordable Rental NA 16 15 N/A Under 80% AMI
1,457 102 1,771 $9,326,887
Notes
CY22 data: 57% of all assisted households were elderly and/or disabled. 42% were working families. Less than 1% of
assisted households report Family Investment Program (FIP) as their sole source of income. Totals include administrative
costs, Cross Park Place Project Based Vouchers (PBV), Homeownership Vouchers & Portable Vouchers.
Referred through our partnership with Shelter House.
All units in Iowa City. Funds spent includes administrative costs, HUD rent subsidies and maintenance/repair of units.
All units in Iowa City (Peninsula & Augusta).
Notes/Status
Referred through the Coordinated Entry System.
All CDBG/HOME funds must benefit those under 80% AMI, most commonly HOME funds benefit those under 60% MI. Includes projects
completed with FY22 and prior year funds. Beneficiaries reported when project is completed.
Notes/Status
Must be under 110% AMI. Five projects completed in FY22. Activity in FY22 picked back up following a lull from the pandemic.
FY22 CDBG-CV Funds - One time allocation through the CARES Act for COVID relief
Set aside of $235,000 was increased by $50,000 from remaining FY21 funds. Excess funds were available due to a decrease in rehab activity
during the pandemic.
Notes/Status
Shelter House administering program. 95% of FY22 beneficiaries under 30% MI. Maximum income is 80% MI. Project to be
completed in FY23. All beneficiary and dollars spent to be reported in FY23.
8 duplex properties purchased in FY22. Rehab on one property was completed in FY22 and two units were available for sale. One unit sold
early in FY23.
City of Iowa City
www.icgov.org/NDS
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 5224040
Appendix
3) Ensure equitable growth for all Iowa City residents and minimize displacement
FY22 TIF & RFC Affordable Housing Requirements under Compliance Period
Project Name Policy Project Type Units Underway
Units under
Compliance Fee-in-Lieu Paid AMI Rent Limit Compliance Period Notes/Status
The Rise - 435 S. Linn Local requirement Affordable Rental -31 $225,706 80%HOME FMR In perpetuity Paid FIL for 2 units (12/29/2021)
Orchard Court Lofts - 627 Orchard Ct RFC - Zoning requirement Affordable Rental -5 -60%HOME FMR 10 years
Dubuque St Apartments - 620 S. Dubuque RFC - Zoning requirement Affordable Rental -5 $28,396 60%HOME FMR 10 years Fee for 4 units out of compliance for one year.
1301 Gilbert Street RFC - Zoning requirement Affordable Rental -5 -60%HOME FMR 10 years
The Edge - 314 S. Clinton St TIF & RFC Zoning requirement Affordable Rental -2 $323,488 60%HOME FMR 20 years FIL for 4 units
Breckenridge - 707 S. Dubuque St RFC - Zoning requirement NA --$404,360 ---FIL for 5 units
Del Ray Ridge - 628 S. Dubuque St RFC - Zoning requirement Affordable Rental -3 60%HOME FMR 10 years
1131 S. Gilbert RFC - Zoning requirement Affordable Rental -6 60%HOME FMR 10 years
1121 S. Gilbert RFC - Zoning requirement Affordable Rental -5 60%HOME FMR 10 years
1141 S. Gilbert RFC - Zoning requirement Affordable Rental -6 60%HOME FMR 10 years
1201 S. Gilbert RFC - Zoning requirement Affordable Rental -6 60%HOME FMR 10 years
225 E. Prentiss RFC - Zoning requirement Affordable Rental -5 60%HOME FMR 10 years
Riverview West - 629 S. Riverside Dr TIF Affordable Rental -12 -120%120% HOME FMR 10 years
Augusta Place - 20 S. Gilbert TIF Affordable Rental -6 NA 80%HOME FMR In perpetuity 6 Units purchased in July 2020, ICHA will operate as affordable housing.
Augusta Place - 104 Westside Dr (offsite units)TIF Affordable Rental -12 NA 60%
Based on 40%
AMI, Developer
pays utilities 20 years Compliance started 8/1/2019.
The Chauncey - 404 E. College St. TIF Affordable Rental -Under HA NA 80%30% of Income In perpetuity
5 Units purchased 8/2020, added to Public Housing Program. Reported under
the Housing Authority
Tailwinds - 100 block E. College St. TIF NA --$1,805,648 ---FIL for 16 units 02-2021)
Gilbane Development - 700 block S. Dubuque RFC - Zoning requirement Affordable Rental --$2,821,325 ---FIL for 25 units (6-1-22)
109 $5,608,923
FY22 Misc. Action Plan Initiatives
Project/Program Name Council Approved:Project Type Units Created
Fee-in-Lieu/
Revenue
Generated AMI Rent Limits
Action Plan #7. Annexation Policy - 10% of units in
residential developments affordable 7/17/2018
Affordable Rental - New
Construction 0 $0 60%HOME FMR
Action Plan #8. Consider TIF to support residential
development. First agreement: Foster Road TIF
Residential Development Agreement 7/17/2018 TBD -See note --
Action Plan #12. Create tax exemption/abetment policy
to support affordable rental housing 10/1/2019
Affordable Rental - New
Construction 0 $0
Less than 40%
AMI
Based on 40%
AMI, minus
tenant paid
utilities
Action Plan #14. Minimize tenant displacement 10/3/2017 Major Site Plans NA NA NA NA
0
Community View annexed off American Legion Road in FY20. CZA & Affordable Housing Agreement signed. 17 affordable
units designated. Started construction in FY21.
Notes:
Foster Road TIF - Collection started in FY22. Generated $123,210 for affordable housing.
Downtown TIF - Tailwinds project paid $1,805,648 for FIL for 16 units in Feb. 2021. Paid $1,520,000 for 8 duplexes (16
homes) for the South District program in July, 2021.
Requires Council approval when 12 or more households will be displaced and no rezoning needed. Requires a transition
plan to better inform tenants and the public. Policy not triggered in FY22.
No applications received to date. Requires at least 15% of total units leased to eligible tenants to receive a 40% tax
exemption on all units in a new residential development with 6 or more units for 10 years.
www.icgov.org/NDS
City of Iowa City410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240 41
Appendix
4) Support innovation in housing and streamline processes
Action Step: Program Estimated TimeLine
Action Plan #9. Consider regulatory changes. Review
processes/fees, etc. to support affordable housing.
Policy Review (NDS, Public Works,
Parks & Rec, Legal)Fall 2023/ongoing
Action Plan #9. Consider regulatory changes. Review
zoning code to increase density/diversity in all single
family/low density residential zones (support missing
middle housing)South District Form Based Code Adopted 11-16-2021
Action Plan #9. Consider regulatory changes.
Review zoning code to increase density/diversity in all
single family/low density residential zones (support
missing middle housing)Comprehensive Plan Amendment 8-10 month process
Action Plan #15. Rent abatement for emergency orders
when vacation is not necessary.Rental permit units Completed 10/3/2017
Acquire land for future affordable housing opportunities
(Opportunity Fund - former Land Banking Fund)
Land Banking (now Opportunity
Fund)Ongoing
Incorporate Sustainability/Climate Action in our
rehabilitation programs
All City housing rehabilitation
programs Completed, July 2019
Support unique housing solutions for special populations
through zoning and/or financial support.FUSE Housing First Program
7/5/2016 Approved Long Term
Housing Use Zoning,
Approved voucher set-aside for
FUSE 10/2/2018
Changes approved after City Council review in July 2019:
Incorporated the following energy efficiency and health/safety measures into our housing programs:
5) Adopted our first radon ordinance, effective July 1, 2021, that requires radon testing, and mitigation, if necessary, to obtain or maintain a rental permit for single family detached or duplex homes.
Received HBA, IC Area Association of Realtors, Affordable Homes Coalition and other stakeholder input. Recommendations regarding code changes in the 2022 Affordable Housing Action Plan. (Also a
carry over from the the original 15 Affordable Housing Action Goals). Presenting amendments supported by existing Comprehensive Plan to P&Z summer of 2023.
Will pursue FBC in all outlying greenfield developments.
Enable more dense and/or more diverse housing in all residential zones (particularly low density residential zones outside of historic districts). Anticpate issuing a RFP for consultant services to
complete a Comprehensive Plan amendment in fall/winter of 2023.
See below for measures incorporated.
ICHA allows up to 5% of ICHA vouchers to be used for permanent supportive housing for persons who are chronically homeless with a disabling condition. Project based vouchers issued to Cross Park
Place (24 homes) and the 501 Project (36 homes) operated by Shelter House.
Two emergency orders/rent abatement issued in FY22.
5) Removed the Housing Trust Fund of Johnson County (HTF) from the competitive Aid to Agency process and moved it to a contractual relationship where the HTF uses 8% (changed from 5% in FY22) of the funds allocated to them through the Affordable Housing Fund for administrative expenses. They will remain as a “Legacy
Agency” in City Steps 2025 in case they do not get funded or funded at levels lower than their past funding awards in subsequent years through the Affordable Housing Fund.
1) All housing rehabilitation projects must complete a free home energy audit by Green Iowa AmeriCorps staff prior to funding approval. The audit measures the level of air coming into the home and provides basic weatherization, if necessary, to reduce air leaks. During the audit, participants receive LED light bulbs, low flow
aerators in kitchen and bathrooms, pipe insulation for the water heater, taping of ducts in basement, and extra weatherization based on the results of the blower door test.
2) Expanded housing rehabilitation activities to include landscaping (tree planting) and grading for stormwater management, as needed, as part of a rehabilitation project.
3) The HOME owner-occupied housing rehabilitation program, with up to $90,000 available annually, is now eligible to landlords of rental housing leasing to tenants with incomes at or below 60% of median income. Landlords are eligible for grants for radon testing and mitigation, if necessary, as part of their rehabilitation project.
4) The Neighborhood Improvements set-aside in the CDBG program was converted to a Neighborhood-Based Climate Action set-aside to encourage sustainable, energy efficiency initiatives in our neighborhoods with a higher number of lower income households.
1) Revised the Distribution Formula for City funds.
2) The Housing and Community Development Commission (HCDC) altered the preference criteria for CDBG/HOME housing projects to encourage applications serving lower income households.
3) Reduced the equity requirements for CDBG emergency rehabilitation projects, such as a broken furnace in the winter or a non-functioning water heater, to enable those that may not be able to proceed to be eligible for the program.
4) Due to the high cost of acquisition and new construction, HCDC altered the preference/evaluation criteria to support those CDBG/HOME rental applications that leverage significant dollars from non-City sources, such as Low-Income Housing Tax Credit projects. The acquisition or construction of SRO or group housing would remain
supported due to the lower average public investment per assisted unit and to increase the supply of accessible homes in our community.
Purchased first property in FY20. Lot 10, Lindemann Subdivision, Part 8 for the future construction of 6 townhomes. Working with Build Together for a multi-family 3D Printed Home.
Notes:
Neighborhood and Development Services
410 E. Washington Street,
Iowa City, IA 52240
(319)356-5230
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PZ-1: Review zoning requirements and identify restrictions that intentionally or unintentionally prohibit
solar PV development. Compile findings in a memo. (Required for Bronze)
To assist your local government, the national solar experts at SolSmart have conducted a review of your
community’s zoning and land use regulations to assess the use of best practices, possible barriers (i.e.
height restrictions, set-back requirements, etc.) and gaps related to solar PV development. Below, please
find the outcome of the review. By reading the narrative and signing the statement at the bottom of the
page, your community will satisfy the PZ-1 pre-requisite and be one step closer to achieving SolSmart
designation.
Summary
The Iowa City [Zoning Code hyperlink to code] was accessed and reviewed during August 2023. The
code was accessed via the [Iowa City website hyperlink to website] (with a redirect to the American
Legal Publishing Corporation website).
• A search for “photovoltaic” yielded 1 results.
• A search for “solar” yielded 24 results.
• A search for “renewable energy” yielded 2 results in reference to
• A search for “clean energy” yielded 0 results in reference to
Best Practice Review
The Iowa City’s code was reviewed to determine if it incorporates best practice regulations for solar
energy. Incorporating best practices improves transparency of processes and clarity of development
standards and can enhance the growth of the local solar market in an organized and efficient manner
Purpose or Intent
The code does NOT contain a purpose or intent for including solar energy regulations in the code.
Code Language Section:
Reviewer Comments Best Practice: ☐ Needs Improvement: ☒ Barrier: ☐
Suggested Language
Iowa City has adopted the following regulations to encourage the efficient and effective
development and use of solar energy systems while protecting the public health, safety, and welfare
of Iowa City’s citizens.
Solar energy is a renewable energy resource and valuable economic resource that can be utilized
throughout the Iowa City for the following purposes (the following bullet points are optional
depending on community goals and plans):
1. To implement the following objectives of the Comprehensive Plan:
a. Encourage the use of local renewable energy resources.
b. Promote sustainable building design and practices.
c. Encourage economic development while preserving the community’s
historic resources and character.
Page 2 of 7
2. To meet the goals of the Climate Action Plan, Sustainability Plan, Clean Energy
Resolution.
a. [REFERENCE GOALS OR TARGETS]
3. To decrease the community’s reliance on fossil fuel power sources and
reduce greenhouse gas emission/achieve carbon reduction goals.
a. [REFERENCE SPECIFIC GOALS OR TARGETS]
4. To enhance the reliability and resiliency of the local power grid and make
more efficient use of the local electric distribution infrastructure.
5. To promote consumer choice and allow residents and businesses to use local,
renewable energy while displacing fossil fuel generation.
6. To improve air quality and protect public health.
Definitions
The code contains definitions for solar energy.
Code Language Section: 14-9A-1: DEFINITIONS
SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM: A device, array of devices, or structural design feature, the purpose of which
is to provide for generation of electricity, the collection, storage and distribution of solar energy.
Rooftop solar energy systems are considered accessory mechanical structures. Utility-scale ground-
mounted solar energy systems are considered a principal institutional use. See the definition for
utility-scale ground-mounted solar energy system for additional information.
SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM, UTILITY-SCALE GROUND-MOUNTED: A solar energy system that is
structurally mounted on the ground and is not roof mounted, and the system's footprint is at least
one acre in size. Utility-scale ground-mounted solar energy systems may be used for both on-site and
off-site consumption of energy. Ground-mounted energy systems with a footprint of less than one
acre in size must be accessory to another principal use as an accessory mechanical structure.
Reviewer Comments Best Practice: ☒ Needs Improvement: ☐ Barrier: ☐
This aligns with SolSmart best practices.
Suggested Language
N/A
Roof-mounted Accessory Use Solar
The code explicitly permits accessory use roof-mounted solar PV systems as a by-right or allowed use.
Code Language Section: 14-9A-1: DEFINITIONS
SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM: A device, array of devices, or structural design feature, the purpose of which
is to provide for generation of electricity, the collection, storage and distribution of solar energy.
Rooftop solar energy systems are considered accessory mechanical structures . Utility-scale ground-
mounted solar energy systems are considered a principal institutional use
Reviewer Comments Best Practice ☒ Needs Improvement ☐ Barrier ☐
This aligns with SolSmart best practices. Codifying roof-mounted accessory use solar as a permitted
use provides clarity and transparency. This action will allow the local government to submit for PZ-5,
the Planning and Zoning pre-requisite for Gold designation.
Suggested Language
N/A
Roof-mounted Solar Height
Option 1 The code exempts roof-mounted solar PV from height restrictions.
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Option 2 The code does NOT allow roof-mounted solar PV to exceed height restrictions by a
defined number.
Code Language Section: 14-2H-2: Zones
Solar energy systems shall not be included in the maximum building height measurement
Reviewer Comments Best Practice ☒ Needs Improvement ☐ Barrier ☐
This aligns with SolSmart best practices. Either exempting solar energy systems from height limits or
permitting solar energy systems to exceed the maximum building height in all applicable districts can
improve system design and performance.
Applicable SolSmart Credit: PZ-6, Ensure the zoning ordinance language does not include
intentional or unintentional barriers to accessory use rooftop solar PV, including but not limited to
aesthetic or performance standards, screening requirements, limits to visibility, excessive
restrictions to system size or rooftop coverage, glare or glint regulations, and subjective design
reviews. (Required for Gold, PZ-4 is optional)
Suggested Language
N/A – In addition, the code does not require solar energy systems to be screened. More detail is
provided later in this review.
Ground-mounted Accessory Use Solar
The code explicitly permits accessory use ground-mounted solar PV systems as a by-right or allowed
use in at least 1 zoning district.
Code Language Section: 14-4A-3: RESIDENTIAL USE CATEGORIES:
3. Accessory Uses: Private recreational uses; storage buildings; parking for residents' vehicles.
Home occupations, accessory dwelling units, childcare homes, mechanical structures such as solar
energy systems, and bed and breakfasts are accessory uses that are subject to additional regulations
outlined in article C, "Accessory Uses And Buildings", of this chapter. Any accessory use of the
property shall remain secondary to the principal use of the property for residential living.
Reviewer Comments Best Practice ☒ Needs Improvement ☐ Barrier ☐
This aligns with SolSmart best practices. Sometimes a property is not suitable for a roof-mounted
solar system because the building has structural limitations, or the rooftop is shaded. In these
instances, a small ground-mounted solar PV system can still allow the property owner to install solar
and enjoy the benefits.
Applicable SolSmart Credit: PZ-7, Ensure the zoning ordinance permits small ground-mounted
solar PV as an accessory use in at least one zoning district.
Suggested Language
N/A
Ground-mounted Solar Setbacks
The code contains setback standards for accessory use ground-mounted solar PV.
Code Language Section: 14-4B-1: MINOR MODIFICATIONS:
8. Required setbacks from a side lot line may be reduced by up to two feet (2'), but in no case shall a
required setback from a side lot line be reduced to less than three feet (3'), unless the subject side lot
line abuts a public right-of-way or permanent open space.
9. Other setbacks may be reduced by up to fifteen percent (15%) of the required setback, but in no
case shall a required setback from a rear lot line be reduced to less than three feet (3'), unless the
subject side lot line abuts a public right-of-way or permanent open space.
Page 4 of 7
Reviewer Comments Best Practice ☒ Needs Improvement ☐ Barrier ☐
This aligns with SolSmart best practices. The City’s code regulates ground mounted solar PV as an
accessory use with use specific setbacks. As such, the setbacks are regulated via use within a
traditional Euclidian district standard. Additionally, the code provides an allowance for administrative
modifications for these setbacks for solar energy systems).
Applicable SolSmart Credit: PZ-8, Ensure the zoning ordinance exempts small ground-mounted solar
PV from certain restrictions on accessory uses (e.g. setbacks, coverage or impervious surface
calculations, or other restrictions).
Suggested Language
N/A
Ground-mounted Solar Placement
The code contains placement standards for accessory use ground-mounted solar PV.
Code Language Section: ARTICLE C. ACCESSORY USES AND BUILDINGS; 14-4C-3:
Development Standards
1. Accessory Structures Other Than Buildings: Allowed accessory structures, other than buildings,
may be located anywhere on a lot, provided the structure complies with any specific setback
standards listed in section 14-4C-2 of this article, and provided that on corner lots, such a structure is
located in compliance with the provisions of chapter 5, article D, "Intersection Visibility Standards", of
this title.
Reviewer Comments Best Practice ☒ Needs Improvement ☐ Barrier ☐
Ground-mounted solar PV is regulated as an accessory structure but not a building. As such setbacks
are regulated in the same manner as the principal structure.
Suggested Language
N/A
Ground-mounted Solar Lot Coverage/Impervious Surface
The code exempts accessory use ground-mounted solar PV from lot coverage and/or impervious
surface standards.
Code Language Section: 14-9A-1: DEFINITIONS
BUILDING: Any structure with a roof and designed or intended to support, enclose, shelter or protect
persons, animals or property. Solar energy systems are not considered buildings
Reviewer Comments Best Practice ☒ Needs Improvement ☐ Barrier ☐
This aligns with SolSmart best practices. It is a best practice to exempt ground-mounted solar energy
systems from lot coverage and impervious surface requirements as long as the area beneath the
system is pervious (e.g. grass). Because solar systems are not considered buildings, they do not
contribute to lot coverage and/or impervious surface standards.
Applicable SolSmart Credit: PZ-8, Ensure the zoning ordinance exempts small ground-mounted
solar PV from certain restrictions on accessory uses (e.g. setbacks, coverage or impervious
surface calculations, or other restrictions).
Suggested Language
N/A
Ground-mounted Solar Primary Use
The code includes standards for primary use ground-mounted solar PV.
Code Language 14-2E-2: DETERMINING PRINCIPAL USES ALLOWED:
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Utility-scale ground-mounted solar energy systems are permitted in ID-C, ID-I and ID-RP
Reviewer Comments Best Practice ☒ Needs Improvement ☐ Barrier ☐
This aligns with SolSmart best practices. This section provides helpful details about the standards for
primary use solar systems and the review process. Key information provided includes the need for a
[e.g. special exception] and standards that should be followed for [setbacks, decommissioning plans,
height restrictions, screening requirements, security, and mitigation of construction impacts.]
Applicable SolSmart Credits: PZ-9, Ensure the zoning ordinance establishes a clear regulatory
pathway for large-scale solar PV (e.g. through a special use permit or through inclusion among
allowed conditional uses).
Suggested Language
N/A
Barrier Review
Solar energy standards should serve to guide and enable solar development, not create ambiguity or
restrict solar development. Certain design and performance standards can create significant barriers to
solar PV. The inclusion of any of the following standards are not best practices and will likely impact the
local government’s ability to achieve SolSmart Gold designation. The statements containing NOT align
with best practices.
Roof-mounted Solar Screening
The code does NOT require screening for roof-mounted solar PV systems.
Code Language Section: 14-2H-4: SITE STANDARDS
4. Mechanical Equipment Screening:
a. Mechanical equipment exempt from screening:
(1) Free-standing or roof-mounted solar equipment; and
Reviewer Comments
N/A
Limits to System Visibility
The code includes standards to limit system visibility (e.g. not visible from public rights of way).
Code Language Section: N/A
N/A
Reviewer Comments
The code is silent on this point and only regulates structures relative to a location near intersections
(visibility triangles) and not visibility from rights of way.
Aesthetic Standards
The code does NOT include aesthetic standards for solar PV systems.
Code Language Section: N/A
N/A
Reviewer Comments
No aesthetic standards for solar PV systems are included.
Glare, Glint, and/or Noise Standards
Page 6 of 7
The code does NOT include glare, glint, and/or noise standards for solar PV systems.
Code Language Section: N/A
N/A
Reviewer Comments
No standards related to glare, glint or noise for solar PV systems are included.
Roof Space Coverage Limit
The code does NOT limit solar PV system coverage to a percentage/part of the available roof space.
Code Language Section: N/A
N/A
Reviewer Comments
No standards related to roof space coverage for solar PV systems are included.
Prohibition on Flat or Low Sloped Roofs
The code does NOT prohibit solar PV systems on flat or low sloped roofs.
Code Language Section: N/A
N/A
Reviewer Comments
No standards prohibiting solar PV systems on flat or low sloped roofs are included.
Limits on Electricity Production
The code does NOT include limits on how much electricity a solar PV system can produce.
Code Language Section: N/A
N/A
Reviewer Comments
Limits on the amount of electricity a solar energy system can produce are not included in the code
Limits on Electricity Consumption
The code does NOT include limits on where a solar PV system's energy is consumed.
Code Language Section: N/A
N/A
Reviewer Comments
Limits on where a solar energy system’s electricity can be consumed are not included in the
regulations.
Discretionary Review Process
The code does NOT identify a discretionary review process for accessory use solar PV.
Code Language Section: N/A
N/A
Reviewer Comments
The code does not have a discretionary review process for accessory use solar PV.
Additional Notes
Page 7 of 7
The Iowa City code of ordinances provides the appropriate type and number of standards for solar
energy development. The code could be enhanced, however by amending 14-4B-4 C 18: Specific
Approval Criteria For Provisional Uses and Special Exceptions - Utility-Scale Ground-Mounted Solar
Energy Systems to eliminate the following standards for non-residential solar energy systems:
• Limitations on visibility
• Glare
I, Sarah J. Gardner, as Climate Action Coordinator of Iowa City, IA have received the zoning review and
read its findings.
Please note that this review is not an endorsement or recommendation for changing and/or updating
the zoning code. This is an informational review only.
If the local government has clarifying comments, please provide them in a memo to the SolSmart
team.