Voluntary Annexation of property in South West
The Ames City Council begins at 6:00 PM. The agenda includes:
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20. Motion accepting progress report from Sustainability Coordinator regarding July - December 2015 activities.
The City of Ames and ISU collaborate through the shared sustainability position. Progress in the past year includes securing funding for a consultant to study waste diversion efficiencies, including the potential for composting. Other progress areas include new businesses on the Smart Business Challenge, as well as various other outreach and educational efforts. -
21. Appeal of denial of Vending Cart Permit for Smiles & Gyros on Welch Avenue.
Smiles & Gyros' current owner forgot to renew their vending permit, and upon reapplication, they are required to have a letter of support from the adjacent property owner. The adjacent property owner may not be supportive. -
22. Update on South Duff Access and Traffic Signal Project.
In April of 2015, Council decided to pursue the possibility of a cross-access road east of Duff, and build a traffic signal and median on Duff, while maintaining truck access to existing businesses such as Howe’s Welding. Walmart has agreed to consider a cross-access road running parallel to Duff, and some state funding is available, so now staff will work to develop a funding agreement for the remaining $180K.
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23. Status Report on evaluation of pedestrian and traffic safety around Crescent Park in Somerset area.
Staff traffic studies found higher percentages of pedestrians in this area than average, and the neighborhood has complained about inadequate crossing facilities. Staff recommends marked crosswalks, warning signs, and dynamic feedback signs. Considering the recent pedestrian tragedy near campus, we need to carefully consider how to maximize the safety of pedestrians in high traffic areas. -
24. Staff Report on ISU Research Park - Phase III winter pedestrian and bicyclist accommodations.
Staff are responding to concerns from the Ames Bicycle Coalition that the new roundabout’s bicycle and pedestrian facilities weren’t completed before winter. Staff point to weather and time challenges, but this is another example of less-than-perfect results for users of other modes. There is a detour which provides a north/south route, it lacks an east/west pedestrian route. -
25. Follow-up report on Campustown Facade Grant Program.
This is a recap of a report from Nov 24th, 2015. Staff were asked to solicit input from CAA regarding a few details of the program. CAA responded positively about two grants being awarded to one property if it is located on a corner or has more than one individual storefront, and they also voiced support for grants being used for second floor facades. Council has budgeted $50,000 for the next grant cycle. -
26. Hearing on Voluntary Annexation of property generally located at 896 South 500th Avenue.
A property owner to the SW of Ames has submitted a request for a voluntary annexation. This 53+ acre parcel of land is within the city’s growth area, as well as being within our water service. It is also within the Ames School District, so has high potential for residential development.
Thanks for reading,
Matthew Goodman
City Council At-Large
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