HomeMy WebLinkAboutStrategic Plan Report - June 2019 digitalIowa City 2018-2019
Strategic Plan
Report
June 2019
View of Washington Street in full bloom.
Table of Contents
Strategic Plan
Goals
3
Vibrant
Urban Core
9
Community
Engagement
17
Introduction &
Overview
4
Healthy
Neighborhoods
12
Environmental
Sustainability
21
Economy
6
Social Justice &
Racial Equity
27
Solid Financial
Foundation
15
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Promote a Strong and Resilient
Economy
Encourage a Vibrant and Walkable
Urban Core
Foster Healthy Neighborhoods
throughout the City
Maintain a Solid Financial
Foundation
Enhance Community Engagement
and Intergovernmental Relations
Promote Environmental
Sustainability
Advance Social Justice and Racial
Equity
for a more Inclusive, Just and
Sustainable Iowa City:
Iowa City's 2018-2019 Strategic Plan
www.icgov.org/strategicplan
3
Introduction &
Overview
City Council members are, from left:
Mazahir Salih, At-Large
Bruce Teague, At-Large
Pauline Taylor, District A, Mayor Pro Tem
Jim Throgmorton, At-Large, Mayor
Susan Mims, District B
Rockne Cole, At-Large
John Thomas, District C
City Council
Iowa City is governed by an elected City Council
of seven members: four Council members at-large
and three District members. The Council is
responsible for appointing the City Manager, City
Attorney, and City Clerk.
City Manager
The City Manager serves as the chief
administrative officer for the organization. The
City Manager implements the policy decisions of
the City Council, enforces City ordinances, and
appoints City officials, as well as supervises the
directors of the City’s operating departments.
City Staff
Iowa City employs approximately 600 full-time staff
members to execute the City Council’s policies and
provide public services to over 75,000 residents.
These include water, sewer, stormwater, garbage
and recycling utilities, as well as public services like
police, fire, building and housing inspections, parks
and recreation, street maintenance, engineering,
development services, transportation,
communication, and senior services.
City of Iowa City
Organizational Profile
Executive Summary
Beginning in January 2018, City Council engaged in a
strategic planning process to define the City’s top
priorities, address significant new projects and initiatives,
and establish a broad vision for the City’s future. City
staff will be responsible for coordinating implementation
and execution of these Council goals over the two year
period. A resolution to formally adopt the 2018-2019
Strategic Plan priorities was approved on March 20,
2018 and an update report was released in November
2018.
4
Moody’s Bond
Rating retained
Aaa
Tax levy
$ 15.833City Emergency Fund
returned to
$ 5,000,000
Double Up
Food Bucks
$ 3,790
SNAP Benefits
$ 5,283
Senior vouchers88
FINANCIAL FACTS
SUSTAINABILITY
SOCIAL JUSTICE / RACIAL EQUITY
HEALTHY NEIGHBORHOODS
HISTORIC PRESERVATIONLOCAL FOODS
COMMUNITY
ENGAGEMENTdedicated to affordable housing
efforts in FY2019 and FY2020$ 2,000,000
Economic Protocol
Agreement reached by
Iowa City, Coralville, and North
Liberty to establish positive
regional business recruitment
tactics
LIVE
45 attendees at 3 Household
Hazardous Materials collection
events (fall 2018 & spring 2019)
New starting
minimum wage
Effective July 1, 2019 for all City of Iowa City
hourly positions
$ 11.50/hr$ 644,000 Aid to
Agencies
Awarded in FY2020 as one-time funds
Children’s and Teen
Library material late
fines waved
(As of June 1, 2019)
Trees planted
since 2016
1500
Electric vehicles4
Electric utility vehicle/truck13Electric hybrids
5 Charging stations
+2 more ordered
in Climate
Action Grants
$ 75,000
Awarded over three
fiscal years
Park and bicycle projects completed and
under construction22 (Between 2018 and 2019)
$ 1,000,000 Contribution to Englert
Theatre and Film Scene
capital campaignFor historic building upkeep
14 Matching
grants
Issued for exterior home
preservation in historic
neighborhoods54Local
landmarks
2018 Farmers Market:
City
Council
Meetings
Greater
purchasing
power
Community
garden plots
212
Leased in spring
2019
Hours viewed
From July 1, 2018
to June 4, 2019
816
6
Promote a Strong and
Resilient Local Economy
a. Undertake a comprehensive assessment of the current public transit system
and implement changes to assure that the service best meets the needs of the
entire community
b. Effectively market and grow the local food economy
c. Through cooperation with the Iowa City School District, Iowa Workforce
Development, Kirkwood Community College, Iowa Works, and others, increase
opportunities for marginalized populations and low-income individuals to obtain
access to skills training and good jobs
d. Work with Procter & Gamble and impacted supply chain companies, local
economic development organizations, and labor unions to respond effectively to
the company’s decision to terminate its local production of beauty care products
In 2018, Iowa City introduced 11 new buses, replacing part of its fleet for the first time in 20 years.1
7
Accomplishment Updates What’s Next
1a After determining that Coralville and the University
of Iowa were interested in pursuing a coordinated
study, the City issued a Request for Qualifications
for an experienced transit consultant. Responses
were reviewed and two firms selected for inter-
views. A contract for services is in negotiation. The
City Council has budgeted $200,000 for conduct-
ing this analysis.
►Expected 12-18 month period for public engage-
ment and study before final recommendations are
ready.
►Staff analysis to determine possible revenue
streams that can enhance transit access and ser-
vice after the completion of the study.
►Prior to the study completion, staff has been inves-
tigating solutions for existing transportation gaps
on evenings and weekends. Staff has met with
private and non-profit transportation providers
and are working through options.
1b Approximately 202 garden plots were leased for
the 2018 growing season throughout four com-
munity gardens.
In spring 2019, all 212 plots were rented for the
growing season.
A series of public meetings were held with Back-
yard Abundance in summer 2018 to gather input
on a new configuration for garden plots at Chadek
Green. Final designs are complete for improve-
ments in fall 2019, including additional paths, a
gathering space, and varied garden plot sizes.
In early 2019, the Senior Center introduced a small
food pantry for food-insecure participants and
com munity members. The pantry is steadily used
and re plenished by the public and has quickly
become a small investment with clear benefits.
►City Council has budgeted $50,000 towards ex-
panding the local food economy.
►Walden Green will have 20 new plots added in
2020. In late 2019 and spring 2020, an orchard
with at least 6 fruit trees and approximately 20
fruit and nut bearing shrubs is planned at
Creekside Park.
►Sustainability staff sought project requests from
organizations promoting and serving the regional
local foods system. Of the four proposals received,
the City chose to fund $45,000 in start up costs for
a local food hub run by Field to Family. The food
hub is expected to start operations in mid-June
2019. Council approved funding at the June 4,
2019 meeting.
►In early June, Council provided direction for the
Senior Center to explore community use of the
commercial-grade kitchen. Some equipment and
the kitchen condition needs to be repaired prior to
use, rental and use policies need review, and po-
tential programming and community partners will
be explored. The local foods budget has approxi-
mately $34,000 reserved for this project.
1c Economic Development staff has generated an
inventory of local and regional efforts to identify
gaps in services and potential collaborations. Staff
has continued to work with private businesses to
►A staff report summarizing findings will be pre-
sented to Council in summer 2019.
►Over the last few years, the City has offered the
“So You Want to Start a Business?” program in
identify workforce needs and barriers to employ-
ment. ICAD and Kirkwood Community College are
involved in this effort to better connect minority
and immigrant populations with small business
and general employment resources.
affiliation with Kirkwood Community College. Staff
is reviewing program format for the next course.
►Economic Development staff is exploring a part-
nership with Kirkwood to expand ESL courses
and connect participants to local businesses with
employment needs.
1d Staff has engaged with Procter & Gamble officials
and connected them with local and state re-
sources to assist with any employees that may be
displaced. Staff has worked with ICAD to express
strong support for growing Procter & Gamble’s
remaining operations and to position the commu-
nity for attracting new lines of business within the
company. Collectively, these groups are also work-
ing to aid supply chain companies, which includes
helping to determine if new business partnerships
can be established to help overcome the anticipat-
ed loss in Procter & Gamble business.
Staff nominated and the State and Federal gov-
ernment approved two Opportunity Zone desig-
nations, which provide federal tax advantages for
property investments, were approved by the State
and Federal government. These Census tracts en-
compass most of the physical locations of Procter
and Gamble, their suppliers, and the Towncrest
area. The Chamber of Commerce, ICAD, and ICR
have assembled promotional information about
these areas to spur investment interest.
►Continue to offer support to employees by engag-
ing with Procter & Gamble to better understand
employee needs
►Continually work with Procter & Gamble and sup-
ply chain companies to determine how best the
City can assist in growing their operations here in
Iowa City.
8
1
9
Encourage a Vibrant and
Walkable Urban Core
a. Collaborate with the University of Iowa on its redevelopment of University-
owned property located in the Riverfront Crossings District, and on improving
the quality, accessibility, and use of the Iowa River Corridor
b. Preserve important parts of Iowa City’s history by considering the designation
of additional buildings as historic landmarks, and, by considering the creation of
an historic preservation district for part of the downtown after consulting with
stakeholders
c. Evaluate existing strategies and consider additional actions to address the need
for reinvestment in the city’s existing private housing stock
2The UniverCity property at 522 N. Dodge St was recently sold. Renovation of 520 N. Dodge St continues nextdoor.
10
Accomplishment Updates What’s Next
2a Staff meets regularly with University of Iowa per-
sonnel to discuss planning topics, including the RFC
campus and the river corridor. Staff from Iowa City
and Coralville are working with the University of
Iowa to align current master plans along the rivers
and identify ways to strengthen existing plans or fill
in missing gaps between the three entities. City staff
is also heavily involved in the planning of the Big
Splash event along the Iowa River in 2020 that will
serve as pivotal point in time for the community to
come together to celebrate and care for the river.
►Staff will continue to engage with numerous com-
munity partners including the University on the
Big Splash planning, which will include education,
outreach and programs in 2019-20. The Univer-
sity’s upcoming Theme Semester connects to this
river concept and City staff has been invited to
participate on the planning committee.
►Staff will work with the University and Coralville to
further align river planning efforts after the master
plan compilation is completed this summer.
2b Iowa City currently has 54 individual local land-
marks including seven that were designated since
January 2018.
In FY2018 and FY2019, the Historic Preservation
Fund grant program has awarded 15 matching
grants and no-interest loans up to $5,000. Of the
15, the City has given 13 grants and 2 loans. The
continuation of this popular new program
is included in the FY2020 budget.
The Downtown Historic Survey was completed
and made available to the public in October 2018.
The His toric Preservation Commission invited
public comment on the survey that October, and
presented its recommendations to Council on
October 23, 2018. Council decided to pursue a
landmark designation of the downtown. The City
retained AKAY Consulting, a historic preservation
consultant, to apply for National Register designa-
tion for a historic downtown district. The applica-
tion submission is expected in fall 2019.
The Historic Preservation Commission designated
the City Park Cabins and the Senior Center (28
S. Linn St.) as local landmarks. Overlay zoning re-
quests were brought to City Council and approved
in spring 2019.
Council approved a $1 million contribution to the
Englert Theater and Film Scene capital campaign
that will in large part enable the historic renova-
tion of the Englert building and also make key
investments in the Packing and Provisions Building
that currently houses Film Scene.
►City Park cabin restorations were competed in
2018. Historic Preservation and Parks and Recre-
ation will work together to showcase the restored
cabins.
►Historic Preservation is preparing to consider land-
mark designation for 225 and 229 N. Gilbert. The
City plans to sell these two properties to Public
Space One, providing down payment assistance.
►Staff will continue to work with the University of
Iowa to understand their timeline for the pro-
posed demolition of the Sanxay-Gilmore House.
Council will need to determine if it wants to pay for
its relocation in upcoming budget deliberations.
►Economic Development staff reviewed five and
approved three applications (total of $121,000)
for the Building Change Loan Program. Building
Change is a cooperative effort between the City
and local banks to allow commercial building own-
ers to update facades and improve underutilized
interior space to allow for residential or office use.
The awarded properties (111-115 E. Washington,
119-123 E. Washington, and 16 S. Clinton) are
considered ‘contributing’ properties to the down-
town historic district, therefore requiring historic
preservation review. The buildings were examined
and ultimately due to the condition of the original
historic facade, designs for the buildings on E.
Washington were altered to preserve historic ele-
ments. Planning staff is waiting for plans to review.
11
2c Staff made changes to the UniverCity program to
allow for the purchase of duplex properties. 522
N. Dodge St, the City’s 69th UniverCity project,
was recently sold. 520 N. Dodge St remains under
renovation, expected to list for sale by the end of
summer.
Council directed staff to identify rented duplexes
on Taylor and Davis Streets and approach prop-
erty owners and current tenants who may have
interest in homeownership. Neighborhood and
Development Services staff have approached all
possible proper ties in this specific geographic
area but no one demonstrated interest. Council
supports finding a project or program to encour-
age homeownership by current District residents
and requested that the Housing and Community
Development Commission generate recommen-
dations to support this effort without involuntary
displacement of renting tenants.
►Considering the success of the UniverCity program
and market pressures, it is becoming increasingly
more difficult to purchase suitable homes for
renovation through the UniverCity program. Staff
completed an initial compre hensive assessment of
all housing programs and presented to Council on
May 21.
2
Foster Healthy Neighborhoods
Throughout the City
a. Modify the existing Affordable Housing Action Plan to include new strategies to
improve the availability and affordability of housing in Iowa City
b. Embed the “Missing Middle” concept into the City’s land development practices
by adopting a Form Based Code for at least one (preferably two) of our
neighborhoods
c. Ensure the next two budgets contain sufficient funds to make meaningful progress
toward achieving the goals of the Bicycle Master Plan and Parks Master Plan
d. Complete an analysis of traffic accident data and identify actions to improve the
safety of our roadways for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians
3Redevelopment of Creekside Park is underway and expected to be completed in 2019.
12
Accomplishment Updates What’s Next
3a Council increased the affordable housing commit-
ment from $750,000 to $1,000,000 in FY2019, and
from $650,000 to $1,000,000 in FY2020.
Council adopted an Affordable Housing compo-
nent to the City’s annexation policy in July 2018.
Also in July, Council approved a development
agreement for the Foster Road extension and de-
velopment area that leverages an estimated $2-3
million dollars in affordable housing funds over
the next ten years. Construction on part of this
project and Foster Road has begun.
Staff has begun preliminary research on new ap-
proaches to expand affordable housing efforts in
the coming years.
►Council should let staff know if there are any spe-
cific proposals or polices that they want to consid-
er as part of this effort.
►Staff will offer Council recommendations in sum-
mer 2019.
►An update on the City’s affordable housing action
plan was provided to Council in the November
15, 2018 Information Packet. The final remaining
item, an examination of Code changes to support
affordable housing, is in progress.
3b A form-based code for the South District is under
development with Opticos. The project is estimat-
ed for completion in spring 2020.
►Council directed staff to pursue as part of an
agreement with Opticos for the development of
a South District form-based code, to conduct a
“visioning” for the Northside Marketplace, along
with a parking study for the Northside neighbor-
hood. The agreement is still in negotiation but
work is anticipated to begin later this year.
3c Numerous projects contained in the Bicycle
Master Plan and Parks Master Plan are being
addressed with each construction season. In
2018, Cardigan Park was outfitted with a new
playground, shelter, and the first fire ring in a City
park. Phases 1 and 2 of Riverfront Crossings Park
are complete and Phase 3 of the proj ect, which
includes a restroom installation, is under way but
coming to a close. Accessibility improvements are
finished at Highland, Pheasant Hill, Tower Court,
and Mercer Parks. Villa Park’s new playground
is nearing completion. A full redevelopment of
Creekside Park began in fall 2018 and is expected
to be complete in 2019.
The 2018 construction season initiated projects
that include several new bicycle facilities, including
Gov ernor and Dodge, Clinton, Mormon Trek, Myr-
tle and Greenwood, and Camp Cardinal.
►Accessibility improvements are planned at College
Green and Brooklyn Parks in 2019.
►Construction on Lower City Park adventure play-
ground and Willow Creek Park is scheduled for
later this year.
►This spring, on-street bicycle facil ities began
striping on Mormon Trek and Dodge. The Mor-
mon Trek project includes a lane conversion from
four to three lanes and buffered bicycle lanes.
Bike lanes will also be included on the Foster Rd
extension (under construction) and the McCollister
extension (to be bid in 2019).
13
14
Camp Cardinal Blvd lanes were completed in 2018.
Clinton transitioned from four vehicle lanes to
three lanes with bicycle lanes in spring 2019. Bike
lanes on Governor and Dodge are being installed.
3d Staff presented traffic accident data analysis find-
ings and preliminary recommendations at the April
23, 2019 Work Session. At this session, Professor
Jodi Plummert, of the University of Iowa also gave
a presentation on traffic and child pedestrians.
►Staff will follow up with further analysis and work
plans for problem areas.
3
Maintain a Solid Financial
Foundation
a. Continue to monitor the impact of the 2013 property tax reform and evaluate
alternative revenue sources as determined necessary
b. Continue to build the City’s Emergency Fund
c. Monitor potential changes to Moody’s rating criteria and maintain the City’s Aaa
bond rating
d. Continue to reduce the City’s property tax levy
e. Maintain healthy fund balances throughout the City’s diverse operations
4
15
Despite relatively steady levels of debt issued over the last decade, the City’s total valuation has risen and tax dollars going towards
repaying debt have decreased considerably.
16
Accomplishment Updates What’s Next
4a Property tax reform is consistently monitored as
the 2013 changes impact the City tax base.
►Staff continues to pursue potential revenue
streams. The Iowa state legislative property tax bill
in the 2019 session may increasingly reduce the
City’s options to absorb 2013 and present-day re-
forms. Council has added a pending Work Session
to discuss a Local Option Sales Tax.
4b Since January 2018, the expenditures from the
Emergency Fund total approximately $511,000 for
the purchase of three properties in the flood plain
adjacent to Lower City Park.
►The City will replace funds spent on property pur-
chases with the FY2020 budget, returning the total
Emergency Fund balance to $5 million. The City will
continue to monitor use of the Emergency Fund.
4c The City experienced a third-party bond rating call
in spring 2018 and 2019 with Moody’s rating ser-
vice. From that call, Moody’s maintained the City’s
Aaa rating. A new element of the Moody’s review
includes how communities are addressing climate
adaptation. Therefore, Iowa City’s climate mitiga-
tion and adaptation strategies were included in the
ratings presentation for the first time this year. The
City also increased its capital contributions, result-
ing in a positive recommendation from Moody’s.
►The City will continue to practice sound debt-re-
duction strategies.
4d The City reduced the property tax levy in FY2019
and again in FY2020 by decreasing the City’s debt
service levy. Responsible borrowing and early re-
payment of debt, along with strong taxable growth,
has permitted decreases in the debt levy. This is
the eighth consecutive year of City debt service levy
reduction, resulting in a $0.15 decrease in FY2019
and $0.35 decrease in the FY2020 property tax levy.
►A spike in property assessments and further debt
service adjustments will allow for possible debt
service levy reductions again in the upcoming
budget year.
4e FY2018 and FY2019 year-end fund balances were
fairly positive and FY2020 outlook also looks
healthy for most funds. In FY2019, the City imple-
mented a 5% increase in water rates to preserve
a balance that will allow for capital infrastructure
maintenance. In FY2020, another 5% increase
in water rates was approved, along with a $0.50
monthly storm water increase.
►The City continues to monitor fund balances and
will determine if a change in user fees is warranted.
Enhance Community
Engagement and
Intergovernmental Relations
a. Experiment with innovative ways of engaging with diverse populations in person
and on social media
b. Improve collaborative problem-solving with governmental entities in the region
on topics of shared interest
c. Improve relationships with the executive branch and legislature by reaching out
to legislators and other elected officials and working with City lobbyists
5
17
Communications staff and local transportation experts record the third “Iowa City Matters” podcast episode, “Traveling with Transit.”
18
Accomplishment Updates What’s Next
5a In early 2018, Communications introduced the
use of Facebook Live for streaming City Council
meetings and a variety of other programs. This
effort provides an additional way for folks to stay
informed of the topics they are interested in, even
if they can’t make it to City Hall.
Beginning in early 2019, City Communications
developed a new podcast series called “Iowa City
Matters.” The new medium is available 24/7 on
major podcast platforms. In its first three episodes,
Iowa City Matters has featured local experts in
focused discussions on issues specific to the Coun-
cil’s Strategic Plan, including historic preservation,
crisis intervention, and transportation.
Since January 2018, staff elevated transparency
in City budget planning and education by holding
events called, “Breakfast on a Budget,” “Budget
101” (a Facebook Livestream Q&A), and “Chip In.”
The three new engagement concepts encouraged
residents to learn about the budget process, en-
gage actively in question and answer with staff, and
share their priorities, ideas, and suggestions for
community improvements and spending.
Several City grants have been made to foster
coordinated community wellness and connections.
Neighborhood PIN Grants have been issued for
programs like Friendsgiving in fall 2018, where
neighborhoods in the South District gathered for a
potluck meal and Invest Health grants allowed for
a small cultural music festival at the Southgate Mall
in April 2018.
The addition of a Sustainability Communications
intern is helping to provide Climate Action promo-
tional content and educational pieces.
►As projects and programs are promoted to the
public, an increased concentration on the de-
velopment of marketing plans has elevated City
communications. Use of polling, prize giveaways,
and other incentives have been received positively.
The division will continue to work with City depart-
ments to create effective marketing and engage-
ment opportunities.
►The Parks and Recreation and Senior Center
Departments are developing relationships and
new partnerships with less-engaged community
members and groups. Parks and Recreation has
introduced new programming opportunities and
as of May 2019, is facilitating a location and set
time for Sudanese soccer play. The Center, while
expanding on an already robust program guide,
is working to coordinate activities specific to the
LatinX community and women from Iowa City’s
immigrant populations.
►Due to the success of last year’s “Chip In” event,
staff is coordinating activities that will build on last
year’s event and community survey, and ask resi-
dents to again prioritize current Council Strategic
Plan initiatives. Community responses will be pre-
sented to Council in early fall during a preliminary
budget Work Session.
►Human Rights is hiring a Communications intern
to help promote equity issues and provide educa-
tional information to the public.
5b In 2018, a Council-initiated regional discussion on
I-380 planning, leading to a meeting held on August
2. Iowa City and Coralville elected officials and lead-
ership agreed at the meeting to cooperate further
on future corridor public transportation efforts.
Council continues to be active participants in the
►The City’s Revenue Division will begin billing for
University Heights residential refuse service July
1, 2019. Iowa City already provides University
Heights utility billing for water and sewer, and due
to a change in services provided by their refuse
hauler, it was agreed that Iowa City could facilitate
19
quarterly joint government meetings. Council held
a joint meeting with the Johnson County Board of
Supervisors in late 2018.
A regional economic development protocol agree-
ment was approved by City Council in late 2018.
the Cities of Iowa City, Coralville, and North Liberty
agreed to communicate with each other and avoid
incentives encouraging developers and businesses
to relocate from one of the three cities to another.
the addition of refuse billing to approximately 360
existing customer accounts.
►Council plans to hold a joint meeting with the Uni-
versity of Iowa Student Government in fall 2019.
►Although a 28E fire mutual aid agreement has
been in-place and exercised regularly for decades,
a new automatic aid agreement was approved
early in 2019 and implemented April 1 between
Iowa City, Coralville, and North Liberty. The auto-
matic aid agreement between the three commu-
nities allows the Joint Emergency Communications
Center (JECC) to automatically and simultaneously
dispatch partnered agencies to building fire inci-
dents. It was acknowledged by the leadership of all
three agencies that the departments could rein-
force one another in challenging response areas,
resulting ultimately in improved safety for respond-
ing firefighters and more effective service to those
requiring emergency aid.
►Council should identify any additional topic areas
that they wish to address.
5c During the 2018 and 2019 state legislative ses-
sions, Iowa City worked with lobbying firm Carney
and Associates to monitor and advocate the Coun-
cil’s legislative priorities in Des Moines. At the end
of the 2018 session, most major concerns, such as
preserving the backfill had positive or neutral out-
comes for the City. By the end of the 2019 session,
the legislature had taken away the City’s ability to
use rental permit caps and modified property tax
laws which will impact the way Iowa municipalities
budget. Staff is working to find potential solutions
to navigate these new challenges.
Relationships with local legislators remain produc-
tive and several contacts were made with current
legislators as well as with district candidates during
the 2018 campaigns. In 2018 and 2019, staff
participated in Iowa League of Cities and Corri-
dor Chamber Day events at the Capitol. The City
continues to build relationships with newly elected
legislators at state and federal levels, visiting with
them in town, Des Moines, and Washington DC.
►In response to the 2019 approved rental cap leg-
islation, Council approved a moratorium on new
rental permits in certain areas of the community
while staff identifies new approaches to main-
taining the balance and character of impacted
neighborhoods. Proposed changes to City Code
are anticipated for presentation to City Council by
early 2020.
►The City’s lobbyists continue to attend meetings
and events with legislators from across the state
prior to the next legislative session. Staff has main-
tained communication with Carney and Associates,
as well as the Iowa League of Cities to ensure
proper preparation for the 2020 session.
►The City is preparing an RFP to consider hiring
a lobbyist to work at the federal level on behalf
of the City to help secure funds for a new transit
facility. RFP release is expected in summer 2019.
Property tax reform legislation passed at the State
in 2019 will impact preparation for the FY2020
budget. Legislation limits annual property tax
20
On Sept. 7, 2018, staff conducted an Iowa City tour
with area legislators and Council members. The
tour shared the latest improvements to parks, fa-
cilities, and notable development projects, related
to State financial support and local needs.
growth to 2%. Any proposed levy higher than 2%
is required to give extra notice, hold an addition-
al public hearing and achieve a super-majority
Council approval.
5
Promote Environmental
Sustainability
a. Adopt an effective Climate Action and Adaptation Plan and ensure the next two
budgets contain sufficient funds to facilitate achieving its goal
b. Support efforts to increase the reach of the Parks and Recreation Foundation
6Three of the City’s four electric cars are shown in the Chauncey Swan Parking Ramp.
21
22
Accomplishment Updates What’s Next
6a The City Council adopted the Iowa City Climate
Action and Adaptation Plan in September 2018
which includes 35 actions for the community and
municipality to undertake to reduce greenhouse
gas emissions. These high impact actions were
identified and quantified so when implemented,
Iowa City can achieve the 2025 and 2050 green-
house gas reduction targets set by City Council.
►The City’s climate action accomplishments and up-
coming projects are found in the Highlight below.
►The City staff climate action committee of City staff
meets regularly and in April established an internal
plan to further Action Plan objectives. This group
is focused on reducing waste, encouraging trans-
portation alternatives, and improving the efficiency
of city facility operations and use. The group’s plan
and progress will be shared in summer 2019.
6b Staff has been meeting with local foundations,
attending training, and consulting with the City
Attorney’s Office to ensure all aspects of the exist-
ing Parks Foundation are in place prior to a large
public campaign. An initial “brand” concept has
been developed in preparation for communicating
Foundation goals.
►Parks and Recreation staff will be consulting with
the Parks and Recreation Commission, following
confirmation that the Foundation is close to re-in-
troduction to the community.
6
23
Implementation of the Iowa City Climate Action and Adaptation Plan is underway. Here are progress highlights
from the first eight months after adoption:
General Updates
►The City will update the community annually on the progress of the Climate Action Plan, beginning this fall, a
year after the Plan’s adoption. The update will include an annual community-wide greenhouse gas inventory,
progress on all thirty-five actions in the Plan, and annual materials will be generated for public awareness.
►The City awarded ten new Community Climate Action Grants in spring 2019. Organizations will be provided
up to $5,000 for projects addressing a spectrum of Climate Plan objectives. This program, started in 2018, has
been a positive way to engage the community, support climate work, and fund worthwhile projects in Iowa City
that will reduce our emissions. Details about projects supporting specific Climate Action Plan objectives are
included below.
►A group of 22 City staff representing all departments meets every other month to capture ideas and improve
daily operations to reduce municipal emissions. In April, the group prioritized actions into a workable plan for
the upcoming year and this plan will be shared in summer 2019.
►Staff has been in contact with event planning faculty at the University of Iowa and other stakeholders to assist
in planning for a Climate Festival planned for September 2020.
Plan Progress
Action
1.1 As of February 1, 2019, participants in the City’s owner-occupied housing rehabilitation
program receive an energy audit by the City’s affiliated Green Iowa AmeriCorps (GIA).
Participant homes also receive weatherization to improve energy efficiency and lower
energy. The City’s partnership with Green Iowa AmeriCorps performed 52 energy audits
since January 2018 (over 228 total, since 2016).
The newly formed Johnson County Clean Energy District organization was awarded a 2019
City Climate Action Grant for launching the planning phase of an initiative to increase
residential energy efficiency audits and retrofits in Iowa City over the next five years.
1.2 A Climate Action Grant was awarded to non-profit Old Brick for installation of digital,
programable thermostats and installing solar lighting in the parking lot. The projects are
expected to yield a 20% energy savings and be an example for commercial spaces.
1.3 A Climate Action Grant was awarded to Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity for providing high
efficiency, low emissions air source heat pumps for three newly constructed homes. One
house will also receive solar panels. This effort is a pilot to reduce emissions while improving
energy efficiency affordability for low-income homeowners.
1.5 Resulting from the solar feasibility study and direction from Council, staff is pursuing two
solar array projects. The Public Works facility under construction will have a rooftop solar
installation and the Terry Trueblood Recreation Area will also see a smaller solar installation
project later this year.
Climate Action and Adaptation Plan Progress Highlights
City Of Iowa City Climate Action And Adaptation Plan 21
Actions are organized by the following areas that represent where the community can make an impact, while recognizing that some actions cut across sectors to deliver
multiple benefits:
Each of these areas is described in a separate section with background information included on the current status of the issue and Iowa City’s efforts. In the beginning of
each section, there is a short list of equity considerations that should be reflected upon and addressed during the ongoing implementation of each action. Further, many
actions tend to offer additional benefits to Iowa Citians. These co-benefits are highlighted by the following icons in each section:
In addition, each individual action is coded to describe whether action is needed at home, at work, at the government level, or a combination of these. This icon signals to
residents, businesses, and community-based organizations where they can take action and what programs, education, and support the City may lead. At the end of each
section, readers will also find suggestions for individual action and participation. Finally, the City has developed a Climate Action Toolkit as a companion to the Plan. The
Toolkit includes information, materials, checklists, and links to several valuable resources, and serves as a resource guide to inspire residents, businesses, schools, and
community-based organizations to take an active role in the shared objective of reducing the City’s GHG emissions. The Toolkit can be found online at www.icgov.org/
climateaction.
While it is not possible to predict the future with certainty, the information that is available on technology improvements and policy trends has been used to attempt to look
beyond the initial emissions reduction goal of 2025 and to identify what additional actions will be needed to reach the more aggressive 2050 goals.
Buildings Transportation Waste Adaptation Sustainable Lifestyle
Taking Action: How to Use This Plan
Reduced costs Improved health Cleaner
environment
Job growth
opportunities
Resilience/ability
to adapt
Increased
engagement/
awareness
$$$$$$
Buildings
24
On a related note, the City Manager’s Office and Sustainability staff have met with both
MidAmerican Energy and Eastern Iowa Light and Power, to talk about partnering on poten-
tial opportunities for solar or other energy saving projects. Discussions are still underway.
1.7 Improvements implemented in City facilities include a Building Automation System (BAS)
at Robert A. Lee and Mercer Recreation Centers along with a new boiler system and HVAC
work. A BAS, now in ten of our facilities, allows staff to monitor and optimally operate the
building HVAC systems with the intent of lowering energy use and costs. A comprehensive
BAS and efficiency boiler at City Hall is the next planned installation.
Over 2,300 bulbs at City facilities have been converted to LED lights since September 2018.
These projects include parking ramp stairwells and office areas, Transit building, household
hazardous waste room at the Landfill, Cable TV offices, an IT server room, the MPO offices
and exterior lighting at City Hall, Equipment shop, Parks shop, Napoleon baseball fields, and
the Refuse building. Outdoor lighting conversion is planned at Mercer Recreation Center.
City staff have been tracking municipal natural gas and electricity utility data for the past 10
years, but a more effective software program was purchased in 2018 to analyze facility data
with the intent of prioritizing energy efficiency improvements. The City will be bringing on an
Assistant Facility Manager in the new fiscal year to more actively monitor and manage our
utility usage also more quickly implementing energy efficiency projects at City facilities.
Action
2.1 An agreement for a community-wide Transportation study is in negotiation with the
selected consultant. The study will incorporate community engagement in determining
routes, services, and other factors that can lead to greater use of the City’s transit services.
2.2 The City vehicle fleet now has four electric cars, three electric utility vehicles, and three
hybrid vehicles. Two additional hybrid SUVs are budgeted. Public charging stations for elec-
tric vehicles were recently added in the Capitol St, Dubuque St. and Chauncey Swan parking
ramps. These are in addition to the public charging station at Harrison St. ramp and fleet
charging station in Chauncey Swan ramp.
Staff is cooperating with other communities and planning agencies in Eastern Iowa to secure
funds from The Iowa Economic Development Authority to create a local readiness plan for
electric vehicles. The project includes the recommendation of practices cities can undertake
to promote the integration of electric vehicles in our community, including policy and code
changes and incentives.
2.3 One bike lane on 1st Ave. (Bradford to Hwy 6) was added in 2018, but more lanes have been
or will be striped. Dodge and Governor Streets (Burlington to Summit), Mormon Trek Blvd.
(Hwy 6 to Melrose), and Clinton (Benton to Church) were completed in spring 2019. Lanes
on Dodge (Governor to Kirkwood) and Foster Rd. (Dubuque to Prairie Du Chien) will be com-
plete later this year. McCollister Rd. (Gilbert to Sycamore) will be finished in 2020, and due to
significant University of Iowa construction, Madison St. (Burlington to Market) is likely to be
added in 2021.
Climate Action and Adaptation Plan Progress Highlights (continued)
City Of Iowa City Climate Action And Adaptation Plan 21
Actions are organized by the following areas that represent where the community can make an impact, while recognizing that some actions cut across sectors to deliver
multiple benefits:
Each of these areas is described in a separate section with background information included on the current status of the issue and Iowa City’s efforts. In the beginning of
each section, there is a short list of equity considerations that should be reflected upon and addressed during the ongoing implementation of each action. Further, many
actions tend to offer additional benefits to Iowa Citians. These co-benefits are highlighted by the following icons in each section:
In addition, each individual action is coded to describe whether action is needed at home, at work, at the government level, or a combination of these. This icon signals to
residents, businesses, and community-based organizations where they can take action and what programs, education, and support the City may lead. At the end of each
section, readers will also find suggestions for individual action and participation. Finally, the City has developed a Climate Action Toolkit as a companion to the Plan. The
Toolkit includes information, materials, checklists, and links to several valuable resources, and serves as a resource guide to inspire residents, businesses, schools, and
community-based organizations to take an active role in the shared objective of reducing the City’s GHG emissions. The Toolkit can be found online at www.icgov.org/
climateaction.
While it is not possible to predict the future with certainty, the information that is available on technology improvements and policy trends has been used to attempt to look
beyond the initial emissions reduction goal of 2025 and to identify what additional actions will be needed to reach the more aggressive 2050 goals.
Buildings Transportation Waste Adaptation Sustainable Lifestyle
Taking Action: How to Use This Plan
Reduced costs Improved health Cleaner
environment
Job growth
opportunities
Resilience/ability
to adapt
Increased
engagement/
awareness
$$$$$$
Transportation
25
2.7 Refuse and Engineering staff used GIS to revise routing of recycling, solid waste, and or-
ganics trucks in early 2019. Standard routes have been in place for years, adding streets as
neighborhoods were built throughout Iowa City. All routes rebalanced the number of stops
while keeping resident pickups on the same day of the week and sharply reducing excess
vehicle miles traveled. Impacts of this recent change are still being monitored. Additionally,
an idling reduction policy for non-emergency City fleet cars has been drafted and should be
in effect soon.
Action
3.2 Most of the City’s 16,000 curbside customers now have 65-gallon recycling carts. About 1%
of households declined the larger carts and continue to use 18-gallon bins. Participation
rates were tracked this spring to determine increases in participation from 2018. Set-out
rates are steady at about 59% but the tons of recyclables collected has consistently in-
creased each month by 40-50 tons more than 2018. Approximately 7,000 organics carts
have been delivered. More 95 gallon carts will be ordered early in FY20 to fulfill a current
wait list of about 800 households. A continued high demand for these carts is anticipated
and staff will purchase as budget permits. Weekly setout rates for organics collecting is cur-
rently about 32%.
3.3 A City Climate Action Grant was awarded to Houses into Homes for diversion of communi-
ty-donated household items from the landfill to furnish homes of families and individuals in
need and/or transitioning out of homelessness in Iowa City and nearby communities.
3.4 Work on an education campaign for diversion of construction materials is in progress.
Recycling and reuse workshops headed by the Resource Management Division were held in
early in 2019.
3.5 Staff rolled out compost programs at five City facilities and the program is popular. More
facilities will be added later this year.
3.6
3.7
Staff is examining needed compost pad improvements and preparing for a methane-
capture study for the Landfill and Waste Water Treatment Facility. An RFP for consultant
study on the Landfill and Waste Water Facility is anticipated in summer 2019 with a
completion goal by the end of the year.
Action
4.1
4.2
The Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN) awarded grant funding to hire a full-time
fellow over the summer to further equity and sustainability work and Iowa City was one of
seven communities nationally chosen to host an Equity and Diversity Fellow. The scope of
work in Iowa City will focus on outreach and getting a better sense of the needs of
underserved and under-represented communities who may be disproportionally
impacted by climate change.
4.4 The City approved the adoption of the Johnson County Emergency Management Agency
Hazard Mitigation Plan in May 2019. Staff worked with the County and their consultant as
the Plan was developed to ensure inclusion of climate-sensitive issues. The City will continue
Climate Action and Adaptation Plan Progress Highlights (continued)
City Of Iowa City Climate Action And Adaptation Plan 21
Actions are organized by the following areas that represent where the community can make an impact, while recognizing that some actions cut across sectors to deliver
multiple benefits:
Each of these areas is described in a separate section with background information included on the current status of the issue and Iowa City’s efforts. In the beginning of
each section, there is a short list of equity considerations that should be reflected upon and addressed during the ongoing implementation of each action. Further, many
actions tend to offer additional benefits to Iowa Citians. These co-benefits are highlighted by the following icons in each section:
In addition, each individual action is coded to describe whether action is needed at home, at work, at the government level, or a combination of these. This icon signals to
residents, businesses, and community-based organizations where they can take action and what programs, education, and support the City may lead. At the end of each
section, readers will also find suggestions for individual action and participation. Finally, the City has developed a Climate Action Toolkit as a companion to the Plan. The
Toolkit includes information, materials, checklists, and links to several valuable resources, and serves as a resource guide to inspire residents, businesses, schools, and
community-based organizations to take an active role in the shared objective of reducing the City’s GHG emissions. The Toolkit can be found online at www.icgov.org/
climateaction.
While it is not possible to predict the future with certainty, the information that is available on technology improvements and policy trends has been used to attempt to look
beyond the initial emissions reduction goal of 2025 and to identify what additional actions will be needed to reach the more aggressive 2050 goals.
BuildingsTransportation Waste Adaptation Sustainable Lifestyle
Taking Action: How to Use This Plan
Reduced costs Improved health Cleaner
environment
Job growth
opportunities
Resilience/ability
to adapt
Increased
engagement/
awareness
$$$$$$
Waste
City Of Iowa City Climate Action And Adaptation Plan 21
Actions are organized by the following areas that represent where the community can make an impact, while recognizing that some actions cut across sectors to deliver
multiple benefits:
Each of these areas is described in a separate section with background information included on the current status of the issue and Iowa City’s efforts. In the beginning of
each section, there is a short list of equity considerations that should be reflected upon and addressed during the ongoing implementation of each action. Further, many
actions tend to offer additional benefits to Iowa Citians. These co-benefits are highlighted by the following icons in each section:
In addition, each individual action is coded to describe whether action is needed at home, at work, at the government level, or a combination of these. This icon signals to
residents, businesses, and community-based organizations where they can take action and what programs, education, and support the City may lead. At the end of each
section, readers will also find suggestions for individual action and participation. Finally, the City has developed a Climate Action Toolkit as a companion to the Plan. The
Toolkit includes information, materials, checklists, and links to several valuable resources, and serves as a resource guide to inspire residents, businesses, schools, and
community-based organizations to take an active role in the shared objective of reducing the City’s GHG emissions. The Toolkit can be found online at www.icgov.org/
climateaction.
While it is not possible to predict the future with certainty, the information that is available on technology improvements and policy trends has been used to attempt to look
beyond the initial emissions reduction goal of 2025 and to identify what additional actions will be needed to reach the more aggressive 2050 goals.
BuildingsTransportationWaste Adaptation Sustainable Lifestyle
Taking Action: How to Use This Plan
Reduced costs Improved healthCleaner
environment
Job growth
opportunities
Resilience/ability
to adapt
Increased
engagement/
awareness
$$$$$$
Adaptation
26
to cooperate with other agencies and communicate this through the planned climate
communications plan.
4.5 The FY2020 budget includes a new Stormwater Technician position for hire as early as
summer 2019. This person will assist the Stormwater Engineer facilitate neighborhood
stormwater projects and residential stormwater management assistant programs. Addition-
ally, the City added an Assistant Parks Superintendent to support management of natural
areas maintenance. City-owned natural areas, like Riverfront Crossings Park, sequester
carbon, reduce runoff, and help control flooding. We have made and will continue to make
progress in maintaining these areas with help from the position changes.
4.6 In addition to the 1,500 trees that have been planted in the past three years, approximately
75 trees will be planted this year to buffer the railroad along 420th St. By expanding our tree
canopy, these trees will assist in eliminating CO2 from the air, reducing stormwater runoff,
removing air pollutants and providing shade for years to come.
Action
5.1 Backyard Abundance was awarded a Climate Action Grant to fund “garden gurus” at the
Edible Classroom, Wetherby Park Edible Forest, and Chadek Green Community Garden.
Gardening experts will be available at regularly scheduled hours to will assist gardeners
and answer any gardening questions while educating about the benefits on climate-friendly
gardens.
5.2 In 2019, the City rented 221 community garden plots in varying sizes. Next year, Creekside
Park will add a community orchard of approximately 26 fruit-bearing plantings (6 trees; 20
bushes), Walden Pond will add 10-15 plots, and Chadek Green will be reconfigured to
include varying garden sizes and additional pathways. In addition to increasing community
gardens and gardening programs, the City issued a $45,000 grant to Field to Family in
support of starting a local food hub.
The City awarded Climate Action Grants to the Women, Food & Agriculture Network to
match aspiring women farmers with seasoned farm mentors in the Iowa City area and to
Iowa Valley Resource Conservation and Development for a “Community Food Sovereignty
Initiative”. The projects support local farmers in the Iowa City area and identify food
preferences of immigrant and low-income community members finding it challenging
to access familiar and affordable produce.
5.5 Willowwind School has been awarded a Climate Action Grant for their “Children-to-Children
Climate Actions: Composting, Gardening, Infiltrating, and Growing Healthy” project. The year-
long program will further integrate environmental education. Kids at the school will have
learning experiences in the classroom and also create materials, productions, and presenta-
tions to be shared with the public – primarily other children - in community spaces.
5.6 The City will be introducing its first “Green Recognition Program” for businesses
and organizations in Iowa City. More information will be released by fall 2019.
Climate Action and Adaptation Plan Progress Highlights (continued)
City Of Iowa City Climate Action And Adaptation Plan 21
Actions are organized by the following areas that represent where the community can make an impact, while recognizing that some actions cut across sectors to deliver
multiple benefits:
Each of these areas is described in a separate section with background information included on the current status of the issue and Iowa City’s efforts. In the beginning of
each section, there is a short list of equity considerations that should be reflected upon and addressed during the ongoing implementation of each action. Further, many
actions tend to offer additional benefits to Iowa Citians. These co-benefits are highlighted by the following icons in each section:
In addition, each individual action is coded to describe whether action is needed at home, at work, at the government level, or a combination of these. This icon signals to
residents, businesses, and community-based organizations where they can take action and what programs, education, and support the City may lead. At the end of each
section, readers will also find suggestions for individual action and participation. Finally, the City has developed a Climate Action Toolkit as a companion to the Plan. The
Toolkit includes information, materials, checklists, and links to several valuable resources, and serves as a resource guide to inspire residents, businesses, schools, and
community-based organizations to take an active role in the shared objective of reducing the City’s GHG emissions. The Toolkit can be found online at www.icgov.org/
climateaction.
While it is not possible to predict the future with certainty, the information that is available on technology improvements and policy trends has been used to attempt to look
beyond the initial emissions reduction goal of 2025 and to identify what additional actions will be needed to reach the more aggressive 2050 goals.
BuildingsTransportationWasteAdaptation Sustainable Lifestyle
Taking Action: How to Use This Plan
Reduced costs Improved healthCleaner
environment
Job growth
opportunities
Resilience/ability
to adapt
Increased
engagement/
awareness
$$$$$$
Sustainable
Lifestyle
Advance Social Justice
and Racial Equity
a. Support organizations and efforts that provide services to people experiencing
and recovering from trauma and crisis related to mental health and substance
abuse
b. Consider a policy to limit city business to vendors that pay all employees a wage
of $10.10 or higher
c. Explore expanded use of a racial equity toolkit within City government,
embedding it within city department and Council levels
d. Consider elevating hourly staff wages to $15/hour or more within two years
7
27
This summer, the Iowa City Public Library got rid of late fines from books in their children and young adult collections. That means young readers
like those shown above can checkout books without fear of incurring a late fee.
28
Accomplishment Updates What’s Next
7a The Council has budgeted sufficient funds to be
active partners in the Countywide Behavioral Ac-
cess Center planning. The County has purchased
land for the project. A joint agreement is still being
finalized.
Cross Park Place, the FUSE housing first initiative
opened its doors to 24 low-barrier apartments in
early 2019. The project, backed with data from the
Police Department’s Data Driven Justice Initiative
has provided stable housing for a population with
challenges often addressed through emergency
services or detention. Continued use of the Police
Department’s crisis intervention training paired
with health, counseling, and housing services at
Cross Park Place have led to a significant decrease
in related calls for service.
City Council responded to a request from the
Housing and Community Development Commis-
sion to increase the FY2020 budget allocation
to the Aid to Agencies grant program. Council
approved for a single year, $625,000, to fully fund
requests made by Legacy local service agencies.
►Council directed staff to fully fund all Legacy
applications in the Aid to Agencies process for a
one year commitment. Staff will have to coordi-
nate another application round next year and this
summer, the City Manager’s Office will be reaching
out to Legacy agencies to have a discussion on the
Aid to Agencies budget levels for FY2021. Council
requested a review of the Legacy and Emerging
Aid to Agencies funding process be added to their
pending Work Session list.
7b Staff provided an introductory memo to Council
in May 2019, regarding options for a vendor wage
policy. Council concluded at the May 21 Work
Session that the City should develop a wage pref-
erence policy that gives additional credit to local
vendors paying an hourly wage of $10.10 or more.
►Finance is drafting a wage preference policy and
will return to Council later this year with an update.
7c The current implementation phase for the eq-
uity toolkit kicked off in early summer 2018. A
summary of currently participating department
accomplishments and takeaways will be provided
later in 2019. The Equity Office notes that many
departments have been integrating practices into
daily operations and decision-making. Examples
of this are Revenue’s implemented utility discount
program and Neighborhood and Development
Services’ toolkit use to assess housing program
options for the South District. Interest in using the
toolkit is even shared by outside groups, namely
►Parks and Recreation, Fire, the Housing Authority,
and the Iowa City Public Library are finishing their
evaluation of current and potential procedures,
policies, programs or services using the racial and
socioeco nomic equity review toolkit. A report to
Council will be submitted later this year.
►The five departments that initiated use of the toolkit
in 2016 (Finance, Neighborhood and Development
Services, Police, Human Resources, and Human
Rights) will continue to use procedure and policy re-
views aligned with toolkit standards and outcomes.
29
the Climate Action Advisory Board, as they pre-
pare to address and evaluate equity in community
climate adaptation and mitigation strategies. The
Iowa City Fire Department conducted three implic-
it bias trainings led and for ICFD employees. Staff
has been encouraged by open dialogue on how
they’re managing issues specific to the Iowa City
community and emergency services.
►Interest in using the equity toolkit is even shared
by outside groups, namely the Climate Action
Advisory Board, as they prepare to address and
evaluate equity in community climate adaptation
and mitigation strategies. Additional uses for the
toolkit may include towing fee review and grant
awards.
7d A cost analysis was provided to Council for a Work
Session discussion on Sept. 18, 2018. Council gave
direction to increase minimum starting wage for
hourly and temporary employees to $11.50 per
hour, beginning July 1, 2019. The FY2020 budget
reflecting this change was approved in March 2019.
►The FY2020 budget proposal will reflect this
adjustment and further annual increases will be
reviewed each year, with an end goal of reaching
$15/hr by July 1, 2021. A study identifying any
wage compression issues is in progress.
7
New Hate Crime Ordinance proposed
In April 2019, the City Attorney’s Office was contacted
by University of Iowa law students under the supervi-
sion of Law Professor Daria Fisher Page. The students
had been retained by the Johnson County Interfaith
Coalition (JCIC) “to work with its Safe Communities
Task Force to create ordinance proposals that could
address the increased frequency of hate crimes
and hate incidents in Iowa City.” Since April, the City
Attorney and Chief of Police met with the students
and JCIC to discuss proposals and identify a solution
that is supported legally and by law enforcement. The
ordinance, which received its first reading on June 4,
2019, is crafted using the State of Iowa harassment
statute and state hate crimes ordinance. If passed,
the ordinance makes a hate crime of harassment or
trespass with intent to harass because of a person’s
protected characteristic. Hate crime under this defi-
nition will be an enforceable offense which includes a
fine and jail time for each incident.
Accomplishment Highlight
Iowa City Police Chief Jody Matherly is shown discussing the proposed hate crime
ordinance for the City at the June 4, 2019 City Council meeting.