Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-11-18 Bd Comm minutesItem Number: 4.a. CITY OF IOWA CITY COUNCIL ACTION REPORT November 18, 2025 Airport Commission: August 14 Attachments: Airport Commission: August 14 MINUTES IOWA CITY AIRPORT COMMISSION August 14, 2025 — 6:00 P.M. AIRPORT TERMINAL BUILDING FINAL Members Present: Hellecktra Orozco (via zoom), Judy Pfohl, Chris Lawrence, Warren Bishop Members Absent: Ryan Story Staff Present: Michael Tharp, Jennifer Schwickerath Others Present: Adam Thompson, Matt Reed, Matt Wolford RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: None DETERMINE QUORUM A quorum was determined at 6:04 pm and Bishop called the meeting to order. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Pfohl stated she reviewed the minutes and did not have any suggestions for changes. Pfohl moved to accept the minutes, seconded by Lawrence. Motion carried (4-0 Story Absent) PUBLIC COMMENT - None ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION 1 ACTION Lawrence moved that Pfohl be nominated as Acting Secretary for the meeting. Seconded by Bishop. Motion carried (4-0 Story Absent) a. Airport Construction Projects: i. FAA grant projects — 1. Runway 12130 Displaced Threshold — Tharp stated that he didn't have any news on the Runway 12130 project, but that he did have a contract amendment to increase the contract amount for the work order with Bolton & Menk by $6500 to cover the additional work needed for the installation of the signage at the runway intersection and for the extra coordination required with FAA Flight Ops on the flight checks for the lighting approvals a. Consider a resolution (A25-12) approving contract amendment with Bolton & Menk. Pfohl moored resolution #A25-12, seconded by Bishop. Motion carried (4-0 Story Absent). ii. Iowa DOT grant projects Airport Commission August 14, 2025 Page 2 of 4 1. T-hangar Building — Tharp stated that he and Thompson were discussion other options for funding for the hangar project. Tharp stated that the FAA will have reallocation program for infrastructure funding that hadn't been spent on time. Tharp stated that he expected the program to be highly political but that they still might take a shot with an application. Tharp stated that if they get it they have a project, and if they don't they maintain the current plans. Tharp stated that he wanted to work through if using the FAA funds up front and then going after state funds would be possible. 2. Wildlife Mitigation Study — Tharp stated the USDA is continuing their data collection. Bishop asked what they'd receive at the end and Tharp responded they would have a report showing what was seen and recommendations for mitigation. Tharp stated that they would be able to use the report as justification for asking for support for mitigation b. Airport "Operations i. Budget — Tharp stated he included the 811 month data sheet for the solar array. ii. Management — 1. T-Hangar Rates 2025-2026 a. Consider a motion setting rates for the 2025-2026 term — Bishop recused for the item. Tharp stated that he examined the rates around and most places were the same. He stated Cedar Rapids was continuing their increases they began a few years ago with a 3% increase. Tharp stated he was recommending a 2.5% increase which was in line with the inflation index. Lawrence moved to approve a 2.5% increase, seconded by Kohl. Motion carried 3-0 (Story absent, Bishop abstained) 2. Ground lease with McGrath Holdings LLC — Tharp stated that when the previous Toyota dealership had the lease the timing was in line with their sale of the business, and they let the lease expire rather than renew and transfer the agreement. Tharp stated that when McGrath inquired about updating the sign, he offered them the same lease that was previously active. Tharp stated the response was they weren't that interested in using the sign and instead suggested a lease in exchange for groundskeeping. ' a. Consider a resolution #A25-13 setting a public hearing on a ground lease with McGrath. Lawrence moved the resolution #A25-13, seconded by Bishop. Motion carried (4-0 Story Absent) 3. USAF Display Jet — Tharp stated that earlier in the week that he received a call from the Clinton Airport regarding the display jet and that Matt Reed the FBO Manager at Clinton was in the audience. Tharp stated that if the Commission wanted to move forward with Clinton that they do it very deliberately and publicly. Lawrence asked about what ideas Tharp had, and Tharp stated that he was hoping that in reaching out not only to inform groups but also to get Airport Commission August 14, 2025 Page 3 of 4 help in fundraising for a new display. Commission members discussed reaching out to veteran's organizations and by consensus agreed to move forward. Tharp stated that he would start reaching out to veterans' groups to let them know planning for this was in progress. iii. Events — Tharp stated that it's a busy month for the airport. Tharp stated that movie nights have had some of the best turn out they've ever had. Tharp noted that Young Eagles was this weekend. He stated that they had 60 signups and a waiting list and were struggling to get seats to make sure everyone signed up had a ride. Tharp stated they were getting things organized for the pancake breakfast as well. Tharp stated that Climate Fest was a weeklong event but they had one day which was going to be dedicated to solar power and the new solar array. Tharp stated that they would be giving tours of the array. 1. Summer of the Arts Movies (Aug 9) 2. Young Eagles (Aug 16th) 3. Pancake Breakfast (Aug 24) 4. Autocross (Sept 14, Oct 19) 5. Climate Fest (Sept 22) c. FBO I Flight Training Reports 1. Jet Air — Wolford stated they've had tons and tons of traffic lately. Bishop asked about the UI helicopters and Wolford responded they did a flyover for a retiring member of the department. Wolford noted that they had a door proposal in the packet. Wolford stated that the proposal would call for Jet Air replacing the hangar door on hangar M, and the Airport Commission extending the ground lease for Hangar N as a trade for the cost of the work. Members agreed that the concept could move forward. Tharp noted that they would bring back an agreement for formal approval. d. Commission Members' Reports — None e. Staff Report — Tharp stated that he would be out of the office next week for the 4 States Conference. Tharp stated that last night he had attended an update meeting at Cedar Rapids over the proposed power plant that Alliant Energy had been proposed to build in Fairfax which was a couple of miles from the existing facility and in conflict with the proposed 3rd runway. Tharp stated that at this point the Airport and Alliant had been talking to each other and they were hopeful that the situation would be resolved. Tharp noted that he was watching things because if they did something that hurt the ability of Cedar Rapids to operate, that would have effects on Iowa City as well. i. 4 States (FAA Central Region) Conference — Kansas City (August 20-22) SET NEXT REGULAR MEETING — Set the next meeting for September 11, 2025. ADJOURN — Lawrence moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:30pm. Seconded by Bishop. Motion carried( Gary Absent) -�o — 0 9 CHAIRPERSON DATE Airport Commission August 14, 2026 Page 4 of 4 Airport Commission ATTENDANCE RECORD 2024-2025 TERM o O 3 3 3 3 O _� O �' O w O �n O can O O o ono fp N O Is N W W W O co N O � NAME EXR N N P- N � N 4�- N � N al N cn N cn N an N u, N al N al N Cn Warren 06/30/26 X X X X X X X X X OIE XIE X X Bishop Christopher 06/30/29 X X OIE X X X OIE X X X X X X Lawrence Hellecktra 06/30/28 OIE X OIE X X OIE OIE X OIE X X XIE X Orozco Judy Pfohl 06/30/26 X X X X X OIE X X X X X X X Ryan Story 06/30/27 X X X X X X X X X X X X O/E Kev. X = Present XIE = Present for Part of Meeting O = Absent OIE = Absent(Excused NM = Not a member at this time XIS = Present for subcommittee meeting OIS = Absent, not a member of the subcommittee Item Number: 4.b. CITY OF IOWA CITY COUNCIL ACTION REPORT November 18, 2025 Airport Commission: September 11 Attachments: Airport Commission: September 11 MINUTES FINAL IOWA CITY AIRPORT COMMISSION September 11, 2025 — 6:00 P.M. AIRPORT TERMINAL BUILDING Members Present: Hellecktra Orozco, Judy Pfohl, Chris Lawrence, Warren Bishop Members Absent: Ryan Story Staff Present: Michael Tharp, Jennifer Schwickerath, Sarah Gardner Others Present: Adam Thompson, Matt Wolford, Marty Boller, Robert Miklo, David Woodruff, Meg George RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: None DETERMINE QUORUM A quorum was determined at 6:03 pm and Bishop called the meeting to order. Lawrence nominated Pfohl to serve as Acting Secretary, seconded by Bishop, Motion carried 4-0 APPROVAL OF MINUTES Pfohl stated she reviewed the minutes and had a couple of minor changes she gave Tharp. Lawrence moved to accept the minutes as amended, seconded by Pfohl. Motion carried (4-0 Story Absent) PUBLIC COMMENT - None ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION I ACTION a. Terminal Building Historic Preservation and Modernization — Tharp stated give everyone background information, 5 years ago, Congress passed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law which was signed and within that program there were dollars that could be applied for by airports to construct terminal buildings. Tharp stated that they were unsuccessful in getting grant funds and that those programs were ending. Due to those conversations there was a group that took interest in placing the terminal building on the National Register and they were attending the meeting tonight to talk with the Commission about the process and if that designation was made, how that would affect the airport. Tharp introduced Marty Boller who introduced the rest of the attendees from the Friends of Historic Preservation. Boller introduced the rest of the members and then Robert Miklo spoke about the group's history and previous work. Boller described the building and the architect of the building Henry Fisk and the background of Fisk as an architect in Iowa City. Boller stated that they believed Fisk to be the first registered architect in Iowa City and Johnson County. Boller continued to describe the buildings that Fisk designed. Airport Commission September 11, 2025 Page 2 of 6 Boller stated that the building was one of the pieces most similar to the original building and recent projects to maintain the building helped to maintain the historic look. Woodruff stated that they wanted to be partners with the airport in helping to find architects and companies that would continue to help preserve the building in future projects. Boller noted that there are programs that help to provide funding for projects that can help the airport to manage the building. Bishop talked about the airport challenges with the building where the footprint for a terminal building is constrained. Bishop stated that he worked as a part time flight instructor and noted the HVAC systems were outdated and the building had other space issues. Pfohl stated that they had multiple flight instructors sharing office space which impacted training. Lawrence stated that the issues the airport has are economic and that this is a gateway to the city. Lawrence stated that grants are difficult to find and that when they did their space needs study and reviewed options for rehabilitating the building versus building new they chose to pursue the build new option due to the costs. Lawrence referenced the Ottumwa terminal building as a building that felt welcoming and was "wowed" when he saw it. Lawrence stated he wasn't opposed to having the building on the register and that if it opened the door to other options for funding he'd like to know about that. Miklo stated that if the building was on the register and the Commission wanted to demolish it or do something that would harm the historic nature, there would need to be some coordination with the State Historic Preservation Office. Tharp stated the FAA considers the building a historically significant building and any effort so any use of federal money would already be required to go through a process that Miklo described. Tharp stated that this is going to be an ongoing process and that right now the Airport Commission didn't need to take a position on the process if they didn't want to. Tharp stated that the state general aviation vertical infrastructure program had a $300,000 cap on new construction and $150,000 on rehabilitation projects. Tharp stated that the FAA priority scoring for terminal buildings is so low that without a program like they just saw, the chances of getting federal money to do something is nearly zero. Tharp also stated that the FAA also has rules on what portions of terminal buildings are eligible for funding and that many portions of the existing building wouldn't be eligible for grant funds. Miklo described some of those ways historic preservation projects is through tax credits. Tharp stated that since they are a government body, using tax credits requires more work to be able to utilize. Lawrence noted that anything they do to the building would be detrimental to airport business as they have no other locations to put people while work was ongoing. Tharp noted that the preservation work would continue and they would keep in communication. When the information was ready to be submitted they could bring that awareness back to the Commission and the Commission could then make a choice whether to support the placement request or not. Tharp stated that he and Thompson had been having conversations under the assumption that the terminal building was going to be around for a while and what improvements could be done to make the building better suited for airport operations. Thompson stated that he put together a plan with some a la carte type options and described those options like looking at the HVAC system or going bigger and doing a full rehabilitation and master plan for an expansion. Thompson mentioned -that going to an electrical based system could be utilized to capture some of the energy supported by the solar array. Members discussed what the next steps should be and what the focus would take. Bishop asked if they need a motion and Tharp responded that at this point he just need a consensus and he believed that Airport Commission September 11, 2026 Page 3 of 6 the Commission was saying they would move forward with the HVAC system improvement options. Thompson stated that they would expect this to be a state grant application project as early as next year. b. Airport Construction Projects: i. FAA grant projects — 1. Runway 12130 Displaced Threshold — Tharp stated they are still waiting for the manufacturer to get information on the permanent fixtures for the temporary lights that have been installed. Tharp noted that while they were doing the inspection for this project they noticed a couple of panels that had cracked in the newly paved areas. Tharp stated that the contractor was notified so they can plan the replacement. Lawrence asked about the repairs and Tharp stated they would be a replacement and that they would have a runway closure at some point for it. 2. Runway 7/25 & 12130 Pavement Maintenance — Tharp stated that Thompson had prepared a draft work order for the project and that they were still waiting for the project go -letter from the FAA. Lawrence asked about the lifespan of concrete. Tharp stated the design life is 20 years but the practical life is near 40 years. ii. Iowa DOT grant projects 1. T-hangar Building — Tharp stated that this was on hold until next spring and they would reapply for the project next spring. Tharp stated they would know what the last FAA allocation from BIL was so that would help finalize numbers 2. Wildlife Mitigation Study — Tharp stated the USDA guys were collecting their data. c. Airport "Operations i. Budget -- Tharp noted that the budget committee was Chair, Secretary, and himself. Tharp stated that he had done a preliminary budget writeup and he was already showing a surplus. Tharp noted there were a couple of hangars that would be undergoing a CPI inflator. Tharp noted for the last budget year, they had a budget that was submitted with a surplus of about $4000 dollars and the last report showed a surplus of $10,000. Tharp stated he believed the city was going to release the budget system on October 1st iiii. Management — 1. Ground lease with McGrath Holdings LLC -- a. Public Hearing — Bishop opened the hearing at 7:12pm. Tharp stated that this lot was originally part of the Dreusicke Toyota dealership agreement and that before Dreusicke sold the dealership this agreement expired. Tharp noted that McGrath wanted to update the sign and he offered the same agreement they had with Dreusicke and McGrath responded they didn't want the sign that badly. Tharp stated they then settled on the trade of being able to use the sign for the cost of the ground maintenance. Bishop closed the public hearing at 7:14pm b. Consider a resolution ##A25-14 approving a ground lease with McGrath — Orozco moved the resolution, seconded by Lawrence. Motion carried 4-0 (Story Absent) Airport Commission September 11, 2025 Page 4 of 6 iii. Events - 1, Young Eagles (Aug 16th) - Tharp stated they had about 45 kids get rides and that they did have a way for kids to be on a wait list for rides for no-shows. Tharp noted that the event ended a little early due to the heat, but that all the kids who were there got a ride. 2. Pancake Breakfast (Aug 24) - Tharp stated that the breakfast was absolutely phenomenal and that the weather was some of the best it's ever been. Tharp stated that they're looking at doing something a little different with the car locations because people will still show up as late as after 10am and getting them through the crowd is problematic. Tharp noted the typical partners were there. Lawrence said he flew out that morning and there was a lot of people that were on the ramp looking at aircraft. Tharp noted they used to have Civil Air Patrol helping but then they stopped participating. Wolford noted he believed it was due to a lack of volunteers overall in the local group. 3. Autooross (Sept 14, Oct 19) — Tharp stated that this weekend was a weekend for the group to be active. Tharp stated he was out on the pavement recently and said it was getting to be pretty bad and didn't know how many more years the group would be using the airport. 4. Climate Fest (Sept 22) — Tharp stated they were also planning for Climate Fest and that Sarah Gardner, Climate Action Coordinator for the city was there to also tell them a bit more about the plans. Gardner shared plans for the day stated they would have some activities in the viewing area and they were working with Public Space One. Gardner stated that in the conference room they would have an art exhibit and tours of the solar array. There was also going to be some activities in the viewing area. d. FBO / Flight Training Reports i. Jet Air — Wolford stated that he didn't have a lot to update but they've been extremely busy. Wolford noted they've been active with survey aircraft staying here. Pfohl asked about the door proposal and Wolford responded that he was still working with some manufacturers to choose an option. e. Commission Members' Reports -- Orozco asked for clarification on plans for phase 2 of the solar array. Tharp stated they ended the planning of that project to use the money for the hangar construction. Orozco also asked about the display jet and Tharp stated that he was still reaching out to veterans groups to let folks know the Airport had plans for the jet. f. Staff Report — Tharp stated that the City Managers Office had offered to have a representative come to city boards and commission meetings to discuss the upcoming vote on the local option sales tax if members were interested. Tharp described the proposed use of the funds and members discussed if they needed to have a conversation. Members declined the offer. Tharp reminded folks about the open meetings training scheduled for Terry Trueblood and that they would have food. SET NEXT REGULAR MEETING — Set the next meeting for October 9, 2025. ADJOURN — Pfohl moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:40pm. carried (4- S ory Absent) Airport Commission September 11, 2025 Page 5 of 6 Seconded by Orozco. Motion Zge -5 — / 0-- n q CHAIRPERSON DATE Airport Commission September 11, 2026 Page 6of 6 Airport Commission ATTENDANCE RECORD 2024-2025 TERM a cfl o 3 N O 3 O N 0 w 4 0 cn 0 M O .i Q w O cQ N Cn w w w o Q Co N O 2 -� NAME EXP. N as N ►� N A N p N cn N a, N M N M N M N cn N cn N al N cn Warren 06/30/26 X X X X X X X X O/E X/E X X X Bishop Christopher 06/30/29 X O/E X X X O/E X X X X X X X Lawrence cktr a 06/30/28 X O/E X X O/E O/E X O/E X X X/E X X Oroz Ornzcn Judy Pfohl 06/30/26 X X X X O/E X X X X X X X X Ryan Story 06/30/27 X X X X X X X X X X X OIE OIE Key: X = Present X/E = Present for Part of Meeting 0 = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused NM = Not a member at this time XIS = Present for subcommittee meeting O/S = Absent, not a member of the subcommittee Item Number: 4.c. CITY OF IOWA CITY COUNCIL ACTION REPORT November 18, 2025 Civil Service Commission: November 3 Attachments: Civil Service Commission: November 3 Minutes — Final City of Iowa City Civil Service Commission Monday, November 3, 2025 — 8:15 a.m. Helling Conference Room Members Present: Members Absent: Staff to the Commission Present: Other Parties Present: Rick Wyss, Eleanor Dilkes, Melissa Jensen, Mark Fay Ashley Jennings Karen Jennings, Tracy Robinson Eric Goers, Chris O'Brien, Chief Lyon, Chief Liston, Sal Aleto, Sam Brown, Bill Schmooke, Collin Wellsandt Recommendation to Council (become effective only after separate Council action): None. Call to Order: Wyss called the meeting to order at 8:16 a.m. After hearing no objection, Wyss changed the order of the agenda items to allow parties present to speak on the Fire promotional list item to do so first. Certification of _promotional lists for Fire Lieutenant, Fire Captain and Fire Battalion Chief: Two attendees addressed the Commission, voicing concerns about the Battalion Chief process. After a brief discussion, Dilkes moved and Fay seconded to certify the Fire Battalion Chief list as presented; all were in favor. Jensen moved and Dilkes seconded to certify the Fire Captain list as presented; all were in favor. Dilkes moved and Jensen seconded to certify the Fire Lieutenant list as presented; all were in favor. Election of officers: After a brief discussion, Dilkes moved and Fay seconded to elect Wyss as chair, A. Jennings as vice -chair and Jensen as vice -chair should A. Jennings decline the vice -chair position; all were in favor. Adiournment• Fay moved and Jensen seconded to adjourn, motion carried, and the meeting was adjourned at 8:47 a.m. Board/Commission: Civil Service Commission Attendance Record Last 12 months (Meeting Date) Name Term Expires 2/21 /25 4/21 /25 5/30/25 7/16/25 9/4/25 10/7/25 X 11 /3/25 X Rick Wyss 4/3/28 X X X X _ X X X Ashley Jennings 4/6/26 X X X X O/E Eleanor Dilkes 4/1/29 --- X X X X X X Melissa Jensen 4/1/29 --- --- --- --- --- I O/E X Mark Fa 4/4/27 --- --- --- --- --- --- X Chi O boko 4/7/25 O/E --- --- --- --- --- --- KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused NM = No Meeting --- = Not a Member November 3, 2025 To: The Honorable Mayor and the City Council RE: Civil Service Promotional Examination — Fire Lieutenant I r I -4 to a6�� 1114 Milt CITY OF IOWA CITY 410 East Washington Street Iowa City. Iowa 52240-1826 (319) 356-5000 (319) 356-5009 FAX 1Vww.icgov.0rg We, the undersigned members of the Civil Service Commission for Iowa City, Iowa, do hereby certify the following named person(s) as eligible for the position of Fire Lieutenant. 1. James McDonald 2. Joshua Wutke 3. Dustin Sievers 4. Clint McFarland 5. Michael Scaffinger 6. Cory McFarland 7. Cameron Reese 8. Chris Kenly Iowa City Civil Service Commission ick Wys ley Jen�ning Eleanor Dilkes ATTEST: 1. �- kellii Grace, City C erk CITY OF IOWA CITY November 3, 2025 410 East Washington Street Iowa City. Iowa 52240-1826 (319) 356-5000 To: The Honorable Mayor and the City Council (3 1 9) 356-5009 FAX %vww.icgov.org RE: Civil Service Promotional Examination — Fire Captain We, the undersigned members of the Civil Service Commission for Iowa City, Iowa, do hereby certify the following named person(s) as eligible for the position of Fire Captain. 1. Tim Recker 2. Anthony Krumbholz 3. Matthew Boerjan 4. John Crane 5. Branden Sobaski 6. Todd Irwin Iowa City /n]ivil Service Commission / Jf , Rick Wyss Asble-y,Jennings 12 t � Eleanor Dilkes ATTEST: �� � � 6 Kel ie Grace, City Clerk November 3, 2025 To: The Honorable Mayor and the City Council RE: Civil Service Promotional Examination — Fire Battalion Chief CITY OF IOWA CITY 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1826 (319) 356-5000 (319) 356-5009 FAX wimicgov.org We, the undersigned members of the Civil Service Commission for Iowa City, Iowa, do hereby certify the following named person(s) as eligible for the position of Fire Battalion Chief. 1. Tom Hartshorn 2. Tim Recker 3. John Crane 4. Branden Sobaski Iowa City Civil Service Commission 4V 4 ick Wyss,-", Ash enni ,gs Eleanor Dilkes ATTEST: l i Kel 'e Grace, City Clerk Item Number: 4.d. I, CITY OF IOWA CITY COUNCIL ACTION REPORT November 18, 2025 Planning & Zoning Commission: October 15 [See Recommendation] Attachments: Planning & Zoning Commission: October 15 [See Recommendation] r ��_..® CITY OF IOWA CITY MEMORANDUM Date: November 6, 2025 To: Mayor and City Council From: Anne Russett, Senior Planner Re: Recommendations from the Planning and Zoning Commission At its October 15, 2025 meeting, the Planning and Zoning Commission have the following recommendation to the City Council: By a vote of 5-0 the Commission recommends that the District petition be approved and the draft Evaluated Report be forwarded to the City Council for their consideration. Additional action (check one) No further action needed Board or Commission is requesting Council direction _X_ Agenda item will be prepared by staff for Council action MINUTES FINAL PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION OCTOBER 15, 2025 —6:00 PM —FORMAL MEETING E M M A J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL MEMBERS PRESENT: James Davies, Maggie Elliott, Steve Miller, Billie Townsend, Chad Wade MEMBERS ABSENT: Kaleb Beining, Scott Quellhorst STAFF PRESENT: Sue Dulek, Anne Russett, Rachel Kilburg Varley OTHERS PRESENT: Betsy Potter RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: By a vote of 5-0 the Commission recommends that the District petition be approved and the draft Evaluated Report attached be forwarded to the City Council for their consideration. CALL TO ORDER: Elliott called the meeting to order at 6:00 PM. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: None. CONSIDER A RECOMMENDATION ON THE PROPOSED RENEWAL AND EXPANSION OF THE SELF- SUPPORTED MUNICIPAL IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT FOR DOWNTOWN IOWA CITY: Kilburg Varley introduced herself as the Economic Development Coordinator for the city of Iowa City and is presenting today the petition for renewal and expansion that the Iowa City Downtown Self -Supported Municipal Improvement District (SSMID) submitted. The Planning and Zoning Commission's role is this process was included in the agenda packet and Kilburg Varley also attached a draft evaluative report, which is what the State code asked that the Planning and Zoning Commission provide, if they're so inclined. Kilburg Varley first gave an overview of what a SSMID (Self -Supported Municipal Improvement District) is. It is essentially a self-imposed taxing district where property owners within that district, if they so choose, sign a petition, and if there's enough of them, they agree to impose an additional tax beyond their standard property tax upon themselves, and that tax revenue provides additional funding to be used within the district for additional or expanded or enhanced types of services, projects and programs that's above and beyond what the municipality provides. SSMIDs are authorized by Iowa Code Chapter 386, a copy of that code was included in the agenda packet. Kilburg Varley reiterated a quick overview of the process. Property owners sign petition forms to either form or renew a district, and that petition must be signed by at least 25% of property owners representing 25% of the total assessed value. If that is all valid, then City Council would establish the district by ordinance, with three readings at the City Council level, and then that SSMID levy is collected and used to help fund those district improvements and projects. Iowa City currently has two Self -Supported Municipal Improvement Districts within Iowa City limits, the South of Six SSMID that came before this Commission a few years ago and the Iowa City Downtown District SSMID which has been in existence for nearly 15 years, first Planning and Zoning Commission October 15, 2025 Page 2 of 5 established in 2011 and then in 2015 the boundaries were expanded and the district was renewed for 10 years, which is the current authorization that they're under, and that expires June 30, 2026. Kilburg Varley noted under the current SSMID authorization the first five years levied a $2 per $1,000 of taxable value as a SSMID tax on the properties within the district and then for the last five years that increased to $2.50 per $1,000 of taxable value. Kilburg Varley stated the Iowa City Downtown SSMID is managed by the Iowa City Downtown District and is a 501(c)6 organization and is who executes the SSMID financing mechanism. Again, the Planning and Zoning Commission's role in the process for either creating or renewing a SSMID is laid out in Iowa Code Chapter 386 and the first step is for those property owners to decide if they want to sign and submit the petition to the City declaring that they want a renewal of the SSMID. The City received the petition for the renewal from the Downtown District on September 15, 2025. Staff then had to verify that the petition contains the required signatures of 25% threshold of property owners and assessed value. Staff performed that review and verified that they met those thresholds. Staff then notified City Council at the October 7 meeting and City Council has forwarded the petition to Planning and Zoning. State Code states Planning and Zoning needs to review the petition on the merit and feasibility of the project and prepare an evaluative report on the proposed district. If Planning and Zoning chooses to approve and forward this evaluative report, then the next steps would be for City Council to set a public hearing and post the public notice for that per the standard process, they would also need to mail a copy by certified mail to all the affected property owners, after the public hearing is held within the required timelines then City Council can then consider adopting an ordinance which reestablishes this SSMID. Kilburg Varley shared a map of the district outlining the current district boundaries and the expanded proposed boundaries. The proposed expansion is in the Northside Marketplace area and then to also extend the district down to the railroad tracks. Kilburg Varley stated all the properties within the district are zoned for commercial, mixed -use or multi -residential and State Code requires that it be commercial properties. The petition proposes to extend the current SSMID for another 10 years, July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2036, and for the first seven years of that extension the SSMID levy rate would remain what it is right now, $2.50 per $1,000 of assessed value and then for the final three years the district would have the option, with their board's approval, to increase to $2.75 per $1,000 of assessed value. Kilburg Varley explained these revenues would be used to help support their operations which includes business support services, marketing and advertising programming, special events like festivals and different activities, physical improvements, enhanced cleaning, lighting, public art, landscaping, seasonal decorations, etc., and staff, including an executive director, to help them implement their work. Kilburg Varley reiterated the State Code requires Planning and Zoning to consider the petition and prepare an evaluative report on the merit and feasibility of the proposal. In the spirit of that law, staff reviewed the petition and in the agenda packet outlined the different points for the Commission's consideration which staff believes support the petition. Kilburg Varley then reviewed the criteria, first, the property in the district does meet all the criteria in the State Code, it has contiguous boundaries, its commercial property, and it's located within City limits of which it meets all those criteria. Second, it did meet that threshold of the 25% of property owners and assessed value. Third, it met the requirement of the code of what that petition all needs to include, defining a name, a duration, what the boundaries are. Fourth that the levy rate, the purposes, and the projects proposed for the use the levy revenue are valid. Fifth, staff finds that Planning and Zoning Commission October 15, 2025 Page 3 of 5 the purpose of the district is adequately described. Sixth, staff doesn't believe that this proposal conflicts with any existing City codes, plans or policies. In fact, staff asserts it supports several including the Comprehensive Plan, the Downtown and Riverfront Crossings Master Plan and the City Council Strategic Plan. Seven, that the estimated SSMID levy revenue under this expansion would be sufficient to carry out the goals and uses identified in the petition and staff finds that with approximately $1,000,000 it is sufficient and therefore meets the requirements of the State Code. Eighth, that the activities that the district proposing to use the SSMID levy are all in line with state and local laws, plans and policies. Staff finds that the proposal is reasonably calculated to meet their objectives. Staff recommends that Planning and Zoning recommend the petition for approval and forward the draft evaluative report to City Council for their consideration. If Planning and Zoning choose to do that, next steps are City Council will set a public hearing, post and mail the notice, and then consider an ordinance to approve the extension. Following that, the City would need to approve a separate operating agreement with the Downtown District. Townsend asked what effect it would have if the proposal was not approved. Kilburg Varley stated that the Downtown District is a separate 501(c)6 organization, so in theory it could continue, however it would not have much of a funding mechanism. The SSMID levy collected accounts for about half of their annual revenue so if this extension of the downtown SSMID is not approved, then they would lose the most reliable and significant source of revenue that they have to carry out their activities. Betsy Potter (Executive Director, Downtown District) stated currently about a third of the overall budget it from the SSMID, it changes a little bit with the expanded boundaries. Another third comes from events revenue that they make up from different ticketing and sponsorships and the final third of the budget comes from support from the city of Iowa City's contribution towards the block by block ambassador services, the University of Iowa contribution that they provide annually, and then any other partnerships or programming sponsorships overall. Miller noted since it has to be commercial property does that mean if there is residential within the boundary it just doesn't get taxed. Kilburg Varley verified that was correct. Potter stated the big catalyst to the larger expansion is that they feel like they've had a big impact on downtown over the last 13 years but that the expanded boundaries, over towards the new UIHC campus (former Mercy Hospital) and then south of Burlington are opportunity areas for their organization and for the City overall. Wade asked what's the vision for the expanded boundaries and what would they contribute to the neighborhood. Potter replied first they would communicate with the property owners and businesses to understand what they want to see in those areas, but overall they're just hoping to expand services to those areas. For example, right now they end the ambassador services at Encounter Cafe and there's a big opportunity for Gilbert Street and beyond to expand those services. Potter noted all of their grant programs, events, marketing, they don't do outside of their existing boundaries so this expansion would be an opportunity to include a number of businesses that have wanted to be included for a long time into the organization. This allows additional businesses that want to participate to be part of the organization. Planning and Zoning Commission October 15, 2025 Page 4 of 5 Miller moved to recommend that the District petition be approved and the draft Evaluated Report attached be forwarded to the City Council for their consideration. Davies seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the motion passed 5-0. Davies thinks it's definitely worthy of merit, it is a great program and it's done a lot of good for the community as a whole. The downtown really serves as an anchor and a hub culturally. He did want to mention the University being such a large property holder and not paying property tax, being aware of their contribution and making sure it's proportional as the boundaries expand that the burden doesn't fall unduly on the private property holders, he'd hope that the University contribution would increase proportionally. CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: AUGUST 27 2025: Wade moved to approve the meeting minutes from August 27, 2025. Miller seconded the motion, a vote was taken and the motion passed 5-0. CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: SEPTEMBER 3 2025: Wade moved to approve the meeting minutes from September 3, 2025. Davies seconded the motion, a vote was taken and the motion passed 4-1 (Miller abstained due to absence). PLANNING AND ZONING INFORMATION: Russett reminded the Commission that there's the joint City Council/Planning and Zoning Commission work session next Tuesday at 4:00 to get an update on the Comprehensive Plan engagement that the consultant has been conducting over the past six months or so. Miller asked if there is an agenda or anything the Commission needs to prepare. Russett replied no, it's an opportunity for the consultant to share the input that they've received from multiple different activities over the course of several months. There was the website, they held meetings, attended pop up events like Party in the Parks and National Night Out, held focus groups and stakeholder interviews, and this is an opportunity for them to share what they heard through those processes. Dulek noted the Planning and Zoning chair has resigned, effective December 1, he's moving, so if anyone know anybody who wants to apply to be on Planning and Zoning let either her or Russett know and they can find out the deadline, it'll probably be somewhere mid -November to submit the application. ADJOURNMENT: Elliott moved to adjourn, Townsend seconded and the motion passed 5-0. PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION ATTENDANCE RECORD 2024-2025 6126 9/4 9118 11120 1214 2119 315 5/7 614 6118 712 7116 816 8127 913 10115 B E I N I N G, KA L E B -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- X O X X O O DAVIES, JAMES -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- X X X X X X CRAIG, SUSAN X X X X X X X X X X -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- ELLIOTT, MAGGIE O/E X X O/E X X X X X X X O/E X X O/E X HENSCH, MIKE X O/E X X X X O/E X X X -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- MILLER, STEVE -- -- X X X X X X X X O/E X X X X O/E X QUELLHORST, SCOTT X X X O/E X X X X X X X X X O/E X O/E TOWNSEND, BILLIE X X X O/E X X X X X X X X X X X X WADE, CHAD X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused --- = Not a Member Item Number: 4.e. a CITY OF IOWA CITY "QR T-4 COUNCIL ACTION REPORT November 18, 2025 Senior Center Commission: September 18 Attachments: Senior Center Commission: September 18 Approved Minutes September 18, 2025 MINUTES SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION September 18, 2025 Room 311, Iowa City Senior Center Members Present: Nancy Ostrognai, Jay Gilchrist, Kate Milster, Lee McKnight, Warren Paris, Betty Rosse, Mary McCall Members Absent: None Staff Present: LaTasha DeLoach, Kristin Kromray, Kirk Lehman Others Present: None CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order by Gilchrist at 4.00 PM. RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM THE AUGUST 21, 2025, MEETING: Motion: To accept the minutes from the August 21, 2025 meeting as amended. Motion carried on a 7/0 vote. Milster/McKnight PUBLIC DISCUSSION: 1► •17T� LOST SALES TAX: Iowa City's Assistant City Manager, Kirk Lehman, presented information on the Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) ballot measure. A LOST tax is a 1 % retail sales tax. Ninety three percent of communities in Iowa have this tax in place. Necessities including rent, groceries, and utilities are not taxed with this additional 1 %. The Iowa City Council decided to put his measure on the ballot based on a community wide survey. The measure will be on the November 4tn ballot and needs a minimum of 50% approval to pass. The reason this measure is being considered now includes state property tax reforms, limited taxable property valuation growth and inflation pressures. The amount of revenue is projected at 8-10 million per year for Iowa City. Coralville is also considering it on their November ballot, and it is already in place in some other Johnson County municipalities. The City of Iowa City previously had a LOST sales tax that was in 1 Approved Minutes September 18, 2025 effect from 2010-2013 for flood mitigation measures after the flood of 2008. It was on the ballot in 2014 but did not pass at that time. The distribution of LOST funds if approved would be 50% property tax relief, 25% for affordable housing, 10% public infrastructure/faciliites,15% for community partnerships. If adopted it would go into effect July 1, 2026. Commissioner Milster asked if affordable housing funds include off campus student housing. The City of Iowa City normally follow federal guidelines regarding affordable housing opportunities regarding students. McKnight asked about increasing the LOST amount above 1 %. It cannot go above 1 %, per state law. There is no sunset on the measure, which will be better for long term planning. Milster asked for some talking points on how to discuss this with community members and how it might affect seniors and the Senior Center. Impacts could potentially include public facilities funds, community partnerships to help local seniors, or affordable housing/property tax relief. Lehman noted that the City and commissioner's role is to inform the public. Greater Iowa City or City staff can also do a presentation at the Senior Center if there is interest. OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW: DeLoach asked for help getting the word out about the Senior Center's new program, Grandbabies. She also highlighted the art class You Can Draw, the gourd crafting classes, and the Russian and Frech classes. The Pickleball Jamboree will take place on September 271" at the GreenState Family Fieldhouse. September 20t" will be the Soul Train Block Party with live DJ and food trucks; entry is a suggested donation to the pantry. There are a few remaining windows to be installed. Exterior door installation will occur after that. The BAS project will start on September 29t". Interior design for future renovations will start next year. COMMISSION OVERVIEW: Gilcrest noted he had some people question what the Senior Center Commission is for. LaTasha noted that the duties of the commission are on the Senior Center section of the City's webpage and people could be directed there. She noted that the commission helps set and review policies, report to Johnson County and the City Council. DeLoach also noted she is working on a special project in regard to the increasing number of seniors in the US and will be asking for assistance in the near future. McKnight asked if there is a large increase in seniors in the area. DeLoach noted that the US is in the middle of the so called "Grey Wave", which refers to the fact that around 10,000 people in the US are retiring each day. Iowa has the 4t" oldest population in the US and currently approximately 18% of Johnson County's population are seniors. Paris asked if there had been any 2 Approved Minutes September 18, 2025 feedback regarding the increase in locker fees. There have been minimal comments from members. Discussion regarding status of 21 S Linn St property. Meeting Adjourned. Approved Minutes September 18, 2025 Senior Center Commission Attendance Record Term 10/17/2 11/21/ 12/19/ 1/16/25 2/20/25 3/20/25 4/17/25 5/15/25 6/19/25 7/17/25 8/21/25 9/18/25 Name Expires 24 24 24 Betty 12/31/26 X X O/E X X NM O/E X NM X X X Rosse Jay 12/31/25 O/E X X X X NM X X NM X X X Gilchrist Mary 12/31/27 -- -- -- X O/E NM X O/E NM O/E X X McCall Angela 12/31/24 X O/E X -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- McConville Lee 12/31/27 X O/E O/E O/E X NM X X NM X X X McKnight Kathryn 12/31/27 -- -- -- X X NM X X NM X X X Milster Nancy 12/31/26 X X X X X NM X X NM X X X Ostrognai Ross 12/31/24 O O O -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- Taylor Warren 12/31/25 O X X O/E X NM X X NM X X X Paris Key: X =Present 0 =Absent O/E=Absent/Excused NM =No meeting -- = Not a member