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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL

AMES, IOWA

NOVEMBER 10, 2020

CALL TO ORDER:

Mayor John Haila called the Regular Meeting of the Ames City Council,

which was being held electronically, to order at 6:00 p.m. with the following Council members
participating: Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen, Gloria Betcher, Amber Corrieri, Tim Gartin, Rachel Junck,
and David Martin.

Ex officio

Member Nicole Whitlock was also present.

Mayor Haila announced that it is impractical to hold an in-person Council meeting due to the
Governor of Iowa declaring a public health emergency because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Therefore, limits have been placed on public gatherings, and this meeting is being held as an
electronic meeting as allowed by Section 21.8 of the

Iowa Code

. The Mayor then provided how the

public could participate in the meeting via internet or by phone.

The Mayor announced that the Council was working off an Amended Agenda. City staff had added
an item to the Consent Agenda approving the purchase of a property at 1126 Grand Avenue.

PROCLAMATION FOR âHUNGER AND HOMELESSNESS AWARENESS WEEK,â
NOVEMBER 15-22, 2020:

Mayor Haila proclaimed the week of November 15-22 as âHunger and

Homelessness Awareness Week.â He encouraged all citizens to recognize that many people do not
have housing and need support from citizens and private/public nonprofit service entities. The Mayor
added that during COVID-19, hunger and homelessness has been further exacerbated. Accepting the
Proclamation were City Housing Coordinator Vanessa Baker-Latimer, United Way representative
Anneke Mundel, The Bridge Home representatives Jodi Stumbo and Linda Munden, and The
Salvation Army representative Cari McPartland.

Ms. Baker-Latimer stated she appreciated the partnership she has with the service agencies to address
the needs of the community. It has been important, due to COVID-19, to spread the services to the
community and Story County. Ms. Baker-Latimer explained that it is important to recognize the
agencies for their efforts and partnership.

Linda Munden, representative of The Bridge Home, said she appreciated the support of the Mayor,
the Council, and the City of Ames. She stated that everyone who receives the services that are
supported by the City of Ames is a lot better off.

Anneke Mundel, representative of United Way, thanked everyone for continuing to raise awareness
about hunger and homelessness. She stated she is concerned about what the Coronavirus is doing
to exacerbate the inequalities. Nationally, they are looking at 24 million more hungry people. Ms.
Mundel pointed out that particularly in the school-based pantries. The local food pantries have seen
an 800% increase in visitors.

Cari McPartland, representative of the Salvation Army, explained that the people she works with to
prevent hunger and homelessness are doing the best they can in Story County. She let the Council
know that she appreciated the support that has been given to the Salvation Army since 2012.

Jodi Stumbo, representative of the Bridge Home, thanked the Council for bringing awareness to the
community. She noted there are a lot of families who are in need, and she is grateful for all the
partner agencies and appreciated their help and collaboration. Ms. Stumbo stated they are starting
to see an increase in clients, and she believed that over the winter the numbers will continue to
increase. She pointed out that Iowa is facing the potential for 70,000 evictions; historically Iowa has
7,000 evictions in a year. Ms. Stumbo mentioned that they have not seen exactly all of what COVID
is going to do to some families, and they need to keep awareness going.

Mayor Haila thanked each agency for all they do for the community.

CONSENT AGENDA:

Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to approve the following items

on the Consent Agenda.
1.

Motion approving payment of claims

Motion approving Minutes of Regular City Council meeting held October 27, 2020

Motion approving Report of Change Orders for period October 16 - 31, 2020

Motion setting Conference Board meeting dates for January 26, 2021, and February 23, 2021

Motion approval renewal of the following Beer Permits, Wine Permits, and Liquor Licenses:
a.

Class E Liquor License - AJâs Liquor III, 2401 âAâ Chamberlain Street

Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service and Sunday Sales - Outlaws, 2522
Chamberlain Street

Class B Native Wine Permit with Sunday Sales - Chocolaterie Stam, 230 Main Street

Class B Liquor License with Catering Privilege, Outdoor Service, and Sunday Sales - Country Inn & Suites Ames, 2605 SE 16th Street -

pending dram shop

Class C Liquor License with Sunday Sales - Time Out-Ames, 120 Kellogg Avenue -

pending dram shop

Class C Beer Permit with Class B Wine Permit and Sunday Sales - Swift Stop #8, 705 24th Street

Purchase of 1126 Grand Avenue in conjunction with Cityâs Dangerous Buildings Program:
a.

RESOLUTION NO. 20-592 approving borrowing $8,205 for purchase of property and
$40,000 for asbestos removal and demolition from City-Wide Affordable Housing
Programs Fund and then re-sell the property to reimburse the expenditures advanced
from the Fund

RESOLUTION NO. 20-577 waiving Purchasing Policies and approving a sole source contract
to Action Information Systems of Golden, Colorado, for upgrading the City Clerkâs Office Files
Management System in the amount of $71,625

RESOLUTION NO. 20-578 amending FY 2020/21 Outside Funding Contract with
Campustown Action Association due to COVID-19

RESOLUTION NO. 20-579 amending FY 2020/21 ASSET Contract with Raising Readers of
Story County due to COVID-19

10.

RESOLUTION NO. 20-580 amending FY 2020/21 ASSET Contract with Boys and Girls Club
of Story County due to COVID-19

11.

RESOLUTION NO. 20-581 approving Detour Agreement with Iowa DOT for 2021 Bridge
Repair Project on I-35 over US 30

12.

RESOLUTION NO. 20-582 approving a Professional Services Agreement with Bolton &
Menk, Inc., of Ames, Iowa for Work Order No. 2 for FY 2020/21 Airport Improvements
(Runway 01/19 Airfield Lighting) project not to exceed $99,900

13.

RESOLUTION NO. 20-583 awarding contract to Hoglund Bus Company of Marshalltown,
Iowa, for purchase of six 176" wheelbase mini-buses for CyRide in an amount not to exceed
$658,200

14.

RESOLUTION NO. 20-584 awarding contract to Elliott Equipment, Co, of Grimes, Iowa, for
purchase of one Peterbilt chassis with Schwarze street sweeper and accept the $85,000 trade-in
allowance for a total of $202,750

15.

RESOLUTION NO. 20-585 approving deaccession of âResonanceâ from Public Art Inventory

16.

RESOLUTION NO. 20-586 accepting partial completion of public improvements and reducing security for Kingsbury Subdivision, 4th Addition

17.

RESOLUTION NO. 20-587 accepting partial completion of public improvements and reducing
security for Wheelock Corner Subdivision

Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motions/Resolutions declared carried/adopted unanimously, signed by the
Mayor, and hereby made a portion of these Minutes.

PUBLIC FORUM:

Ahmed Ismail, Iowa City, said he wanted to discuss âPolicing in Ames.â He

stated that he had reached out to a few of the Council Members about potentially talking to
marginalized communities. He noted that some of the Council Members had mentioned that they
didnât fully understand the marginalized communities yet. Mr. Ismail explained that the
recommendations for the âPolicing in Amesâ will affect the marginalized communities the most. He
wanted to know if the Council is going to speak with the marginalized community first before
finalizing any of the recommendations.

Mayor Haila explained that Mr. Ismailâs question was about the Council moving forward with the
Policing in Ames: âA Path Forwardâ Recommendations, prior to interacting with under-represented
or marginalized communities in Ames. He explained that the City Manager had made some
additional recommendations relative to talking with marginalized communities. The Mayor noted
that this will be discussed during Item 18 on the Agenda. Mr. Ismail asked if Item 18 was going to
be the decision of the Council to pass the Recommendations or the decision to reach out to the
marginalized communities for its input. Mayor Haila mentioned that the decision before the Council
is whether to recommend to staff to proceed with beginning to create/implement some of the
recommendations. Mr. Ismail stated that he had the opportunity to speak with some members of the
Council and the Police Department and they all admitted that the City doesnât understand the issues
of the marginalized communities. He was curious if this would be something the Council and Mayor
would like to move forward with.

POLICING IN AMES: âA PATH FORWARD:â

City Manager Steve Schainker explained that

on September 29, 2020, a report was presented before the Council on âPolicing in Ames, A Path
Forward.â The Report contains 21 recommendations to address the concerns reflected in the emails
that were received regarding the issue of improving policing efforts. Instead of making any final
decisions on the recommendations at the September 29, 2020, meeting, the Council decided to
provide citizens with sufficient time to review the proposals and offer additional feedback. Mr.

Schainker explained that he had met with Ahmed Ismail, representative for the local Black Lives
Matter, and he was very persuasive that the City of Ames does not do as good of a job as it could
with discussing issues of concern with âmarginalizedâ communities. City Manager Schainker
mentioned in his cover letter he is recommending adding, under the Communication category, a
Focus Group/Workshop between the City Council and the marginalized community. Mr. Schainker
stated he is looking for direction as to what options to remove or add into the Plan. He added that
a couple options will be related to the budget and these will have to be approved during budget time.

Mr. Schainker wanted to clarify on Category No. 9 - âFundingâ that he is not in support of
âdefundingâ the Police Department in any way. He also wanted to point out to the public how much
of a commitment the Council has made financially to service agencies throughout the years.

Mayor Haila stated that he agreed with Mr. Schainkerâs recommendation to Mr. Ismail. The Mayor
stated that if the Council gives direction tonight, it would not be final; staff will bring more
information back to the Council. City Manager Schainker explained that there will be two additional
steps after tonightâs meeting. Once the Council gives direction on how they want to proceed with
the recommendations, Mr. Schainker will come back to the Council with an Implementation Plan.
The second step will be to continually communicate with the public regarding the process.

Mayor Haila asked the Council if there were any questions about Theme 1 was âOrganizational
Culture.â Council Member Gartin stated that his only concern was a fiscal question. He explained
that his presumption is that the budget is going to be tight for the next couple of years and wanted
to know if Mr. Schainker would be recommending any new full-time employees (FTEs) in the next
budget. Mr. Schainker commented that it is too early to say, but he is going to recommend that a new
full-time position for a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coordinator be created. It was noted that
each Department has done a wonderful job with their budgets, and he doesnât expect a lot of new
positions.

Theme 2 was âPolice Officer Recruitment and Selection Process,â and there were no comments from
the Council.

Mayor Haila explained that there had been over two hours of public comment on September 29,
2020, and the report had been available to the public. The Mayor stated that there will be no public
input tonight as tonight is for the Council to discuss and give direction on how to proceed with the
Report. There are multiple steps, and this item will be coming before the Council and the public
again for comment at a later date.

Theme 3 was âOfficer Training/Educationâ and had no comments from the Council.

Theme 4 was âDepartmental Policies.â Council Member Betcher stated this section had caught her
attention and there were a couple of concerns that didnât pertain to just this section, but would be
considered global changes to some of the wording. Ms. Betcher worried that with the focus on
citizenship in recent years that the term âcitizen,â which the City uses as synonymous with resident

could be misconstrued, especially by the international community in Ames. She wants anyone that
is a resident of Ames to feel included in the recommendations and be able to contribute and be a part
of the advisory committee.

Moved by Betcher, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to replace the word âcitizenâ with the word
âresidentâ throughout the Report.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.

Council Member Betcher mentioned that another point she wanted to make was also a global change.
In Recommendation No. 6, it referred to the Cityâs website and the Cityâs website shows up in a lot
of the recommendations, and it is one of the primary methods of publicizing what the City is doing.
She explained that the Council knows there are members of the community who are unable to afford
internet, smartphones, or by using electronic means to get information. Ms. Betcher stated she would
like to find some language that would allow the Council to have flexibility on how information is
publicized. She suggested saying that âdistribution will occur using print, electronic, and other
appropriate means of communication.â Ms. Betcher would like to see the Council thinking more
broadly on how information is disseminated and using traditional means and means that are
recommended specifically for reaching those communities. One of the goals the Council has is how
to reach out and best communicate with those communities.

Moved by Betcher, moved by Junck, when it is appropriate in the Recommendations, they should
reflect print, electronic, and other appropriate means of communicating with the public.

Council Member Gartin stated that the Police Department Policy is over 100 pages long and asked
Ms. Betcher for further clarification. Ms. Betcher stated that the Police Department Policy is
probably the most difficult, but she was recommending having one hard copy available for someone
to review at the Public Library. Council Member Martin stated he didnât understand the motion to
absolutely require the production of print copies of everything. The motion sounded a little more of
a nuance to him. Ms. Betcher stated she is trying to be broad, but in saying the primary mode is
electronic, the City is cutting out a lot of communities who donât have access to the internet. Mayor
Haila stated he was reviewing the document to see where Ms. Betcherâs motion would apply.
Council Member Betcher stated it would be applicable to Recommendation No. 6, No. 11 (Quarterly
Summaries), No. 12 (Quarterly Reports), No. 14 (Periodic Studies), No. 15 (Complaint Forms), and
No. 18 (Periodic updates). Council Member Martin stated that this is something that may get more
clarification as staff works on the wording, but in the meantime, he thought it was a good idea. Ms.
Betcher mentioned that she hoped staff would take the motion as being flexible as they are not sure
what kind of recommendations they may get. She is not intending to lock things down, but open
them up.

Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.

Theme 5 was âCity Ordinances and State Law.â City Manager Schainker pointed out that if the
Council wanted to proceed with Recommendation No. 9, immunity issues or other items that need

to be talked about had not been vetted with the City Attorney. It is whether the Council wants staff
to pursue the recommendation or not. The Council did not have any comments for Theme 5.

Theme 6 was âTransparency.â Council Member Junck noted that she had mentioned at the
September 29 meeting that she thought it was important to ask about race and other demographics
in all situations and then let people volunteer the information if they felt comfortable sharing it. She
suggested that staff look into doing this with the implementation of the Plan. Ms. Junck stated if it
is not possible that would be okay, but thought it would be good to explore.

Moved by Junck, seconded Martin, to ask staff to explore the possibility of asking people for
demographic information in situations where they are able to voluntarily comply.

Council Member Corrieri stated she is concerned with the motion as there are already some volatile
situations and this would create more tension for law enforcement and its dealings with the public.
Council Member Beatty-Hansen mentioned that she was worried about people feeling pressured to
answer the questions if they donât want to. She wondered if this would be a good topic to discuss at
a Workshop and ask for input from other organizations and the public.

Council Member Junck withdrew her motion and recommended to discuss at a Workshop.

Council Member Betcher mentioned that the demographic information would be a good topic for
the conversation that will be held later. She didnât feel comfortable having a bunch of âwhiteâ people
deciding to ask everybodyâs race. It did not sit well with her. Ms. Betcher felt it was important to get
input from the impacted communities.

Council Member Martin thought it would be great to consult as well, but they would be doing what
the motion asked for, which was to âexplore the possibility of doing it.â He understood the motion
to talk about the topic; not enforce it right away.

Theme 7 was âAccountability in Complaint Handling and Discipline.â Council Member Junck stated
she had a comment about the Ames Citizen Police Advisory Committee (ACPAC). It was discussed
how the Council would like the Committee to be representative of the diversity in the community
and if staff should explore potential term limits that would be more inclusive to having Iowa State
Students serve on the Committee. Ms. Junck noted that there were a few other Boards or
Commissions that have the shortened terms to attempt to include ISU students.

Moved by Junck, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to have staff explore potential options for term limits
that would be more inclusive to having Iowa State University students be able to serve on the Ames
Citizen Policy Advisory Committee.

Council Member Betcher stated if the Council replaces the word âcitizenâ with âresidentâ it would
change the name to Ames Resident Police Advisory Committee (ARPAC), and she doesnât think it
is a bad idea. She wondered about the implementation of the Committee as the way it is described

indicated that there would be a steep learning curve, and a lot of commitment that an ISU student
might not have the time for, but she is in favor of having a limited-term position.

Vote on Motion: 5-1. Voting Aye: Betcher, Beatty-Hansen, Corrieri, Junck, Martin. Voting Nay:
Gartin. Motion declared carried.

Council Member Gartin stated that the ARPAC is one of the more interesting aspects of the Report,
but he wanted to know how the Council would know that the Committee is working. Mr. Schainker
explained that they are not transferring or delegating the responsibility of accountability outside of
the organization. He stated he will know it is working because his goal and the goal of the Police
Chief is to make sure before they make a decision that will affect an officer or the community that
the Police Chief would get the benefit of a perspective that they would not normally have. By being
fair and having an open and honest dialogue, that type of exposure would be helpful. Mr. Schainker
stated it is not who wins or loses, and he would not recommend the group votes and it would be
more participation centered. The benefit is to give the Police Chief a new perspective from an
outside group.

Council Member Corrieri explained that she understood that an Implementation Plan will be coming
back to the Council, but she would like to know how potential candidates would be vetted. She
understood the appointments would be done by the Mayor, but she was worried it would be
politicized. Ms. Corrieri wanted to know if there would be a matrix as to what information is kept
confidential and what is available to the public. Mr. Schainker stated they would have to speak with
the City Attorney and some training would need to be done. The selection process could be discussed
as to whom they would want on the Board. She stated that of all the Boards and Commissions this
new Committee has the most potential to be politicized. Mr. Schainker stated they can get guidance
from other cities as to how they set up their committees.

Council Member Gartin asked if there would be any merit in considering putting a five-year period
follow-up date in where this item would come back to the Council instead of being on automatic
pilot. He would like a substantial period of time for the Council to come back with a fresh set of
eyes. Council Member Beatty-Hansen stated that if the Council were to review the Committee in five
years and decide not to renew it, they would also have the votes to decide not to continue it on their
own. She didnât think an automatic kick in to review the Committee would be necessary. Mr. Gartin
stated he was worried that if there was not some kind of sunset or place holder to review, the
Committee would just keep going, whether it was effective or not.

Mr. Schainker stated it is harder for the City Council to eliminate it once it is in place, but if a
timeframe is put in, it forces the Council to stop, take a look, and make a decision. Council Member
Betcher mentioned that this would be something to look at to see what other communities are doing
as she is sure there are other Citizen Advisory Committees.

Council Member Martin stated he is interested in how the members would be chosen for the
committee. He stated that the Committee is to have seven members who are intended to be the

representatives of the diversity of the community, appointed by the Mayor, and approved by the
Council. Mr. Martin wanted to know how they ensure that the members are representatives of the
diversity of the community. He had an idea that the Council could ask the Mayor when making the
appointment to consider the race and demographic information from the other Recommendations
and to say in the appointment what information was considered.

Council Member Betcher mentioned she knows it will be a challenge to fill the Committee as they
currently have issues with filling some of the other Board and Commission positions. Council
Member Betcher stated that it could attract people who are generally concerned and interested,
people who have an axe to grind, or people who want to be a part of the police. She noted it would
be worth it to look at how other communities have appointed its members, and if it is working well.
Ms. Betcher stated that the reports she has heard from the National League of Cities state the
appointments are going well, but she doesnât know how the appointments were made. Council
Member Beatty-Hansen stated this may be a good topic for a Workshop as well. Not specifically
whom to pick, but where to get good, qualified people.

City Manager Schainker stated the Council could be general and state that the membership has to
reflect the demographics of the community or identify five different groups and each one has to have
a member. Ms. Betcher commented that she remembers the Council had been in trouble before for
having specifics. Mr. Schainker stated that is correct. Mayor Haila mentioned there is one board that
is impossible to fill as there are very specific qualifications or professions that are hard to fill. The
Mayor stated there will be the expectation for participation, training, and objectivity. Ms. Betcher
stated they could set percentages, and the Council could set a 50/50 percentage and try to meet it as
best as they can. The Mayor mentioned that he continually tries to get a diversified group on each
committee. Mr. Schainker stated he doesnât expect an answer tonight, but will reach out to other
groups.

Theme 8 was âCommunication.â Council Member Betcher mentioned that she had asked Mr.
Schainker about Recommendation No. 17, which referred to the ISU Community and Regional
Planning class and about incorporating the potential to continue the relationship with the Regional
Planning class or to say the Council adopts the Recommendations and explore the potential for a
continuing relationship with the ISU Community and Regional Planning class. Mr. Martin stated it
is hard for them to say one way or the other. His perspective is that this is a new program, but there
have not been any outcomes yet about the class. He would want to see how it went before
committing to an ongoing relationship. Ms. Betcher stated she wasnât thinking of committing to the
relationship, but committing to consider it. She stated that adopting Recommendation No. 17 may
be premature as the Council doesnât know what the recommendations are. Mr. Schainker explained
that he was careful with the wording as the Council will only approve âCity approvedâ
recommendations as the class may give 20 recommendations and the Council may not approve any
of them.

Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Betcher, to incorporate a community conversation with
representatives of marginalized communities and agencies that work with them.

Mayor Haila inquired when Council Member Beatty-Hansen would like the conversation to occur.
Ms. Beatty-Hansen stated that she would recommend having the conversation earlier than later. She
was not sure about timing though. Ms. Beatty-Hansen would like to get feedback on Policing and
other important issues. The Mayor wanted clarification and asked Ms. Beatty-Hansen at what point
she would recommend having a community conversation and would it be after staff came back with
its recommendations for implementation and review. Ms. Beatty-Hansen stated she didnât think it
should be that specific, but still not sure about the timing. Council Member Betcher stated she
believed Mr. Ismail was recommending setting up a communication pipeline, but she was not sure
how long it would take to organize something like that. Council Member Martin stated this is
something that could be done in Council meetings and should be relatively decoupled from the
Policing Report. He stated it is about getting to know the community better and will be a real time
commitment.

Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.

Theme 9 was âFunding.â City Manager Schainker stated that Recommendation No. 21 is not his
recommendation. His recommendation is not to âdefundâ the Police Department or reallocate
ASSET.

Council Member Beatty-Hansen mentioned that they did mention not purchasing surplus armored
military vehicles, but thought there were some rifles that were purchased from surplus. She wanted
to know if the Council said no military anything, how would it affect purchasing. Police Commander
Geoff Huff explained that the important distinction is that the Police Department doesnât buy them
from the military; if the item is a surplus the Department gets them for free. The City can buy the
same thing on a private market, but this is a more cost-effective method.

Council Member Martin stated he had a comment about Recommendation No. 21, and when he
looked at the ASSET priorities, he liked them and didnât want to change them. Council Member
Betcher mentioned that she would tend to agree, but during their next discussion of ASSET funding,
the Council could foreground the question of social justice more in the Councilâs decision-making
process so it is part of the discussion. Mr. Schainker inquired what Ms. Betcher meant by
foregrounding. Ms. Betcher stated she doesnât believe they have ever discussed social justice during
any ASSET discussions and just wants to bring it into the conversation as a component.

Assistant City Manager Schildroth asked for clarification if Ms. Betcher meant for the ASSET fiscal
year 2020/21. Ms. Betcher stated for next yearâs funding round, in July 2020 for the next fiscal year
of 2021/22. Ms. Schildroth mentioned she would make a note of it.

Moved by Betcher, seconded by Junck, to ensure that social justice is part of the discussion of the
ASSET priorities next year as the Council reviews the priorities.

Council Member Gartin stated he is going to vote in favor of the motion, but stated it is going to be
very difficult to work on a new category for social justice. Ms. Betcher mentioned that she thought

they were already having this discussion in other work that the Council has been doing with plans.
Ms. Betcher asked Ms. Schildroth if this idea was something that would be doable and if she knew
of designations of groups that fit within the category of social justice communities that are impacted
positively or negatively by suggestions. Ms. Schildroth explained that she would need to think that
through a little bit. One piece of information they started collecting with the ASSET budget for fiscal
year 2022 was information on race and ethnicity to see where the agencies are providing their
services. Ms. Betcher mentioned that she suspects that there will be some overlapping.

Council Member Martin stated he would be in support of the motion, but is unsure of what it means
in terms of the services that the Council would see for ASSET and how allocations would be
changed. He thought it would be positive to have a conversation.

Mr. Schainker asked if Ms. Betcherâs motion was approved would she intend for it to replace
Recommendation #21. Ms. Betcher stated she guessed it would as she is not talking about
reallocating anything or re-prioritizing, but talking about the next cycle.

Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.

Mayor Haila stated he typically doesnât read his emails during the Council meetings, but there have
been a lot of emails about having a dialogue with the public during tonightâs meeting. He reminded
the public that there had been plenty of time for input and this is not the end of the discussion.

Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by Gartin, to move forward with the suggestions outlined in the
Staff Report, including the modifications voted on by the Council.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.

DISCUSSION OF WHETHER TO EXTEND THE EXPIRATION OF THE FACE-
COVERING ORDINANCE:

City Attorney Mark Lambert explained that on September 1, 2020,

the Council adopted Ordinance No. 4420, which generally mandated that the people in Ames wear
face coverings while in public settings. The Ordinance contained a sunset clause; the Council had
chosen December 31, 2020, as the date the Ordinance would come to an end. He noted that there are
three City Council meetings left after this meeting if the Council wanted to extend the Ordinance,
but if the Council doesnât do anything the Ordinance will no longer be valid.

Council Member Martin stated it would be a good idea to extend the Ordinance as the COVID
numbers are still going up, however; as a point of good governance, the Council should be soliciting
the opinions from the medical authorities whom the Council is relying on.

Moved by Martin, seconded by Beatty-Hansen, to ask the Story County Board of Health, Iowa State
University, Mary Greeley Medical Center, and McFarland Clinic for their advice either in favor of
or against continuing the Face-Covering Ordinance while simultaneously putting the first reading
of the modified Ordinance on the next agenda to extend the Ordinance until June 30, 2021.

Council Member Betcher wanted to know what the motion would do to the timeline. Mr. Martin
stated he would ask staff to bring back the modified Ordinance for first reading on November 24,
and to reach out to the four parties who were mentioned in the motion to provide a written response
by November 19, 2020. He noted that this should give everyone enough time to review the responses
before making a decision on November 24.

Vote on Motion: 5-1. Voting Aye: Betcher, Beatty-Hansen, Corrieri, Junck, Martin. Voting Nay:
Gartin. Motion declared carried.

AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF AMES AND MARY GREELEY MEDICAL
CENTER AND CITY OF AMES AND THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FIRE
FIGHTERS, LOCAL 625:

Fire Chief Rich Higgins stated that he is asking the Council for its

approval on two separate contracts. The first contract is with Mary Greeley Medical Center and the
second contract is with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), Local 625. The
Agreements are to move to a new service level from the current level of First Responder (Emergency
Medical Responder) to an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). Chief Higgins noted that the City
has had a great partnership with Mary Greeley Medical Center (MGMC) for years. The first contract
was done in 1996 and it was agreed that the Ames Fire Department would upgrade its emergency
medical service (EMS) status to that of First Responder. In 1998, the contract was updated to add
extrication and in 2003, the contract was modified to further clarify responsibilities under the
partnership. He explained that in 2016, MGMC requested that the Ames Fire Department upgrade
its EMS service level to Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). Discussions occurred between
MGMC and the City of Ames regarding the change in service level, but no changes were agreed to
by the parties. In 2019, MGMC gave notice that it was canceling the contract with the Ames Fire
Department for medical services. Additionally, MGMC canceled two other contracts with the Ames
Police Department, one for Emergency Medical Dispatching (EMD) and the other for the interface
connection between the Police Departmentâs Computer Aided Dispatch System to MGMC
ambulances. Although cancellations were received, the parties continued to operate under the
original terms of the Agreements until a new contract could be negotiated. Chief Higgins stated that
over the last year a lot of time had been spent with the President and CEO of MGMC Brian Dieter
and the MGMC staff. One contract was prepared; MGMC would pay 100% for the EMT training.
Mr. Higgins highlighted a few of the items that will be in the contract with MGMC:

The Ames Fire Department will be responsible for 100% of the cost for extrication
equipment and training.

MGMC will be responsible for 100% of the incentive pay paid to Ames Firefighters
and Lieutenants for maintenance of their EMS licenses.

MGMC will provide, free to the City, all equipment, initial and ongoing training, and
disposable supplies in order to provide EMT services to the community.

The initial term of the Agreement shall be for four years with one automatic renewal
term of four years. If a new contract has not been agreed to at the end of the
automatic renewal term, the contract will continue for one additional year if mutually
agreed upon.

The Ames Fire Departmentâs EMS service level will increase to EMT within 18

months. The Department will transition over to a Conditional EMT service early next
year. At this level of service, EMT-level services may be provided when staffing
allows, while MGMC provides EMT training and certification to the whole
Department. The Department will transition away from the Conditional EMT service
to an EMT service once the Department has more members trained and certified at
the EMT level, which will be towards the end of 2021.

Chief Higgins pointed out that after the automatic renewal of the four-year contract if MGMC
decides not to renew after the contract; the City of Ames will be responsible for all incentive pay for
all the Firefighters and Lieutenants.

Mr. Higgins stated that the other contract is with the International Association of Fire Fighters
(IAFF), Local 625. A Letter of Agreement was drafted between the City of Ames and the IAFF,
Local 625, to reflect mutually-agreed-upon changes to the Collective Bargaining Agreement. He
explained that a few changes would be:

EMT certification becomes a required credential for Firefighters and Lieutenants
whose initial hire date as a Firefighter occurs after January 1, 2020. The EMT
certification must be obtained within 18 months of the start of employment and be
maintained thereafter.

Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) certification, previously known as First
Responder, remains the minimum required credential for Firefighters and Lieutenants
whose initial hire date as a Firefighter occurred prior to January 1, 2020. These
Firefighters may elect to upgrade to EMT to receive the higher incentive pay, but it
is not required.

Current EMR incentive pay is $20 per month for Step A, B, and C Firefighters, and
.7% of the annual salary for Step D Firefighters and Lieutenants.

Proposed EMT incentive pay will be $30 per month for Step A, B, and C
Firefighters, and 1.05% of the annual salary for Step D Firefighters and Lieutenants.

City Manager Steve Schainker wanted to thank Mr. Dieter and the staff at MGMC for their work on
the Contract, because of the partnership the City of Ames helps support MGMC. He noted the
Agreement is fair where it works for both sides and the citizens will get a better level of service.

Mayor Haila asked how many Firefighters will want to switch from EMR to an EMT. Mr. Higgins
stated he is anticipating having 100% within the next three years.

Mayor Haila opened public comment.

Corinne McDowell, address unknown, stated she has been trying to speak up about Item No. 18.
Mayor Haila stated he explained several times the process that the Council would have during the
meeting. Ms. McDowell explained that she had heard what he said, but wanted to know why the
Council allowed public comment before the discussion instead of hearing the Councilâs opinion first.
She stated the public still has comments and would they not have a place to respond. Mayor Haila
stated that the public has the opportunity to interact with the Council via email at any time.

Mayor Haila closed public comment.

Moved by Junck, seconded by Corrieri, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 20-588 approving the
Reciprocal Service Agreement between Mary Greeley Medical Center and the City of Ames.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.

Moved by Junck, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 20-589 approving the Letter
of Agreement between the City of Ames and the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF),
Local 625.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.

SOLAR FARM ELECTRICAL PERMIT:

Fire Chief Rich Higgins explained that the company

constructing the Cityâs Community Solar project pulled their Electrical Permit and were taken aback
by the total Permit fee. The site has 5,902 panels, and what the Inspection Division does is charge
an âOther Feeâ for all solar panels that have been done throughout the community. He noted that
there have been quite a few solar projects in the City, but nothing of this size. The fee schedule
worked well with residential homes and small commercial programs; however, for this large project,
it created a Permit fee in the amount of $35,176.40. When staff spoke with the contractor, they had
never seen this high of pricing in other communities that they had worked in. The Contractor asked
for staff to reevaluate the cost.

Building Official Sara Van Meeteren explained they had checked with several different communities
within the Des Moines metro area, but no one had ever seen a project of this scope and had nothing
to compare it to. She stated the fees in Des Moines were all different. Some were evaluation-based
and some were based on the number of fixtures, but no one had anything to compare to. Ms. Van
Meeteren explained that the fees for the Electrical Permit are a base fee of $53.55 and then additional
fees for each fixture. The largest solar panel permit fee they have had so far was for the McFarland
Clinic building on Lincoln Way. McFarland put solar panels on the roof, and it was about $6,000
for the Permit. She noted it is about time for the City to change how the fees are assessed as the solar
panels are becoming more frequent in nature and doesnât want to change the Code drastically for this
project when it is highly unlikely to have another project of this scope come to the City of Ames.
Staff believed a new fee for large projects (large projects are those over 500 kVA) should be added
to Appendix U. It had been determined that the fee most closely related to a solar module fee would
be a fixture fee of $2.15.

Mayor Haila inquired if the adjusted fee is similar to other states that the contractor had worked with.
Ms. Van Meeteren stated that the change did bring it in line with other statesâ fees.

Mayor Haila opened public comment and closed it when no one asked to comment.

Moved by Gartin, seconded by Betcher, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 20-590 amending the Fee

Schedule in Appendix U.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.

TRANSFER OF MIRACLE LEAGUE FIELD AND INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND FROM
THE AMES FOUNDATION TO THE CITY OF AMES:

Parks and Recreation Director Keith

Abraham stated this item was brought up in 2015 as to how to bring an inclusive playground into
the park system. He stated that now five years later the Ames Foundation is transferring a $2.3
million project over to the City of Ames. There have been a lot of people involved in the process and
he wanted to thank the Ames Foundation. The Playground will be a great amenity that will be for
all ages, all abilities, and Ames residents. Mr. Abraham mentioned that this past week someone had
looked at the Park who has seen other parks throughout the State of Iowa and commented that the
City of Ames has a âcrown jewelâ in the Miracle League Field and Inclusive Playground.

Lynne Carey, Representative of the Ames Foundation, thanked everyone who believed in the project.
The Ames Foundation could not have done it without the donations of the community.

Mayor Haila pointed out that it is amazing to see that there were eight major competitive grants
worth over $700,000, more than 70 businesses/organizations, Foundation donations over $750,000,
and nearly 350 individual donations of over $800,000. He noted the Playground is an amazing
facility and will be well used by many people.

The Mayor opened public comment. It was closed when there was no one wishing to speak.

Moved by Corrieri, seconded by Junck, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 20-591 accepting the transfer
of the Miracle League Field and Inclusive Playground from the Ames Foundation to the City of
Ames.
Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Resolution declared adopted unanimously, signed by the Mayor, and hereby
made a portion of these Minutes.

ORDINANCE ON PROPOSED TEXT AMENDMENTS REGARDING THE NEW FLOOD
PLAIN MAPS, UPDATED DEFINITIONS, AND AMENDED TERMINOLOGY USED IN
CHAPTER 9 OF THE

AMES MUNICIPAL CODE

Moved by Beatty-Hansen, seconded by

Betcher, to pass on second reading an ordinance regarding the new Floodplain Maps, updated
definitions, and amended terminology used in Chapter 9 of the

Ames Municipal Code

Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.

ORDINANCE REPEALING CERTAIN URBAN REVITALIZATION AREAS (URA),
EFFECTIVE 12-31-20:

Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to pass on second reading an

Ordinance repealing the following Urban Revitalization Areas, effective 12-31-2020, for each of the
following:
a.

South Lincoln âSub-Areaâ/Neighborhood Urban Revitalization Area, established 09-23-03
by Ordinance No. 3733

405 & 415 Hayward Avenue Urban Revitalization Area, established 11-20-2007 by
Ordinance No. 3932

517 Lincoln Way Urban Revitalization Area, established 02-24-2015 by Ordinance No. 4209

Roosevelt School Site and City of Ames Park 921 9th Street Urban Revitalization Area

established 11-12-2013 by Ordinance No. 4162, and Program Policy established by
Resolution No. 13-265
And effective 01-02-2021 for the following:

415 Stanton Crawford School Urban Revitalization Area established 06-12-2018 by
Ordinance #4357
And additionally, by establishing a sunset date of 12-31-2021 for each of the following:

Walnut Ridge, 3505 and 3515 Lincoln Way Urban Revitalization Area, established 04-26-16
by Ordinance No. 4254

2700, 2702, 2718, and 2728 Lincoln Way; 112 and 114 South Hyland Avenue; and 115
South Sheldon Avenue Urban Revitalization Area, established 12-13-2016 by Ordinance No.
4284

Roll Call Vote: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.

DISPOSITION OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL:

Mayor Haila stated the first item was

a memo from Assistant City Manager Brian Phillips addressing the Councilâs goal on identifying
ways that the City can assist the Ames Community School District in its efforts with closing the
achievement gap. City Manager Steve Schainker commented that this item was for the Councilâs
information only. He asked the Council if they wanted to wait until a future goal setting meeting,
place the item on an Agenda, or just sit on it for a bit. Ms. Betcher stated this item was Task 2 of
their goal, and she thought Task 1 was to speak with the School District. She wanted to know if Task
1 had been done. Ms. Betcher noted that it might make sense to wait on this item until the Council
knows where the School District stands. Council Member Gartin stated that he hoped that since the
last goal-setting meeting, staff would have had the opportunity, even with COVID, to have some
follow-up with leadership. He wanted to know if the follow-up could happen in the near future. Mr.
Schainker commented that schools have been under a lot of pressure, but they could try to set
something up. The Mayor stated that he and Mr. Schainker can try to meet up with the School
District before the end of the year. Mr. Gartin stated his concern is for those kids who were
struggling before and if they are falling even further behind. Mayor Haila stated that he will work
on trying to see if something could be set up.

The second item was a letter from Jerry Nelson requesting changes in the residential parking
requirements in the Downtown area.

Moved by Betcher, seconded by Corrieri, to refer Mr. Nelsonâs letter to staff for a memo.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.

Item 3 was a Staff Report giving a summary and follow-up on the August 10, 2020, high wind event.
City Manager Schainker mentioned that the report read like an adventure novel and that Assistant
Manager Brian Phillips did a great job writing the report. The report outlined all the trials and

tribulations that the City had faced during the derecho.

Council Member Gartin inquired that, given the magnitude of the storm, whether it would make
sense to have an opportunity for the Council to have a debriefing about the lessons learned and
anything they need to be doing as a result. Mr. Schainker explained that the Council will see some
changes in the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) projects from the Electric and Water Departments.

Council Member Betcher wanted to know what was being done to distribute the Staff Report. Mr.
Schainker stated that they will distribute a copy to the Library, social media, etc.

The fourth request was an email from Steven Young, Director of Operations, MLY Investments,
LLC/dba Freddyâs Frozen Custard and Steakburgers requesting two reserved parking spots on
Lincoln Way for delivery and mobile order pick-up. Mr. Schainker recommended asking staff for
a memo.

Moved by Martin, seconded by Betcher, to ask staff for a memo regarding Mr. Youngâs request for
two reserved parking spots on Lincoln Way for delivery and mobile order pick-ups.
Vote on Motion: 6-0. Motion declared carried unanimously.

City Manager Schainker commented that the last three items for dispositions are in reference to the
Policing in Ames Report, which was on this Agenda. He noted that the Council should have read
through them. Mayor Haila stated the Council will take them under advisement. Mr. Schainker
explained that they will reach out to Ahmed Ismail to explain what happened during tonightâs
meeting, and that the Council is talking about setting up a dialogue for the marginalized
communities.

COUNCIL COMMENTS:

Council Member Gartin stated he wanted to commend Story County

Auditor Lucy Martin and all the volunteers who helped make the election run smooth. He stated that
tomorrow is Veterans Day, and due to COVID, the Ames Patriotic Council will be holding a virtual
presentation on November 11, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. Anyone can watch the presentation on Facebook
of the Ames Patriotic Council or its website at

www.amespatroticcouncil.org

. Mr. Gartin thanked

Mr. Schainker and staff for their work on the Policing Report. There was a lot of thoughtfulness and
working through a difficult set of problems. He also wanted to thank the Ames Police for keeping
the community safe and their commitment to the mindfulness of the residentsâ civil liberties.

Council Member Betcher thanked all the people who have served or are serving in the military. She
explained that Iowa State is also doing virtual recognition, and anyone can go to the ISU website to
view the video they are promoting. She stated that this week is the Symposium with Building
Inclusive Organizations that the Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring with various other
organizations. Next week is the National League of Cities virtual summit, and she is hoping some
of the Council will be able to attend the meeting. Ms. Betcher stated that she and Mr. Schainker will
be getting the final reports from the Community and Regional Planning class the week of November
23 and will report back to the Council.