Annotated Agenda for February 3, 2025
Apologies for the delay—it's been a busy weekend for my family! Here’s the annotated agenda for this week’s City Council meeting. Let me know if you have any questions or need more details on anything.
I encourage you to join us for the meeting—whether in person at City Hall, by tuning in on Channel 15, or watching the live stream on Channel 15’s YouTube. Your participation and feedback are always valued as we work together to make our city a great place to live and grow!
You can download the council packet with all the nitty gritty on the city’s website if you’d like more details on any of these items.
Call to Order by the Mayor
Roll Call
Pledge of Allegiance
Approval of Minutes
1. Regular meeting of January 21, 2025.
Agenda Revisions
Public Forum. (Speakers will have one opportunity to speak for up to 5 minutes on topics relevant to City business.)
Staff Updates
Special Order of Business
2. Public hearing to consider entering into a proposed Second Amended and Restated Agreement for Private Development with CV Commercial, L.L.C.
City Council originally approved a development agreement with CV Commercial, LLC in 2021 for a mixed-use building in the College Hill Urban Renewal Area, with a completion deadline of December 31, 2023. Due to delays, the agreement was amended in February 2024 to extend the deadline. In October 2024, City Council updated tax rebate incentives from 5 years to 10 years, prompting the developer to request a second amendment to extend their rebate period and push the project deadline to December 31, 2026. City Council voted 5-2 to proceed with the amendment, which has been reviewed and approved by the City Attorney.
a) Receive and file proof of publication of notice of hearing. (Notice published 01/28/25)
b) Written communications filed with the City Clerk.
c) Staff comments.
d) Public comments.
e) Resolution approving and authorizing execution of a Second Amended and Restated Agreement for Private Development with CV Commercial, L.L.C.
3. Public hearing on the proposed rezoning from A-1, Agricultural Zoning District to PC-2, Planned Commercial District approximately 76.53 acres of property located at the northeast corner of US Highway 20 and Hudson Road.
The City of Cedar Falls proposes rezoning 76.53 acres at the northeast corner of US Highway 20 and Hudson Road from A-1 Agriculture to PC-2 Planned Commercial to support urban development. This land, part of the Highway 20 Commercial Corridor Overlay District, aligns with the 2019 Creekside Technology Center Master Plan, which has been renamed Creekside Business Park. A loop road, stormwater facility, and recreational trail will be built over two construction seasons, with commercial lots becoming available for sale as infrastructure is completed.
a) Receive and file proof of publication of notice of hearing. (Notice published 01/28/25)
b) Written communications filed with the City Clerk.
c) Staff comments.
d) Public comments.
e) Pass an ordinance amending the Zoning Map by removing approximately 76.53 acres of property
located at the northeast corner of US Highway 20 and Hudson Road from A-1, Agricultural Zoning District to PC-2, Planned Commercial District, upon its first consideration.
4. Public hearing on proposed amendments to the Cedar Falls Zoning Map, specifically to amend the Downtown Character District Regulating Plan changing the “Neighborhood Small” frontage designation to “Urban General 2” frontage designation on Walnut and Olive Streets in the first block south of West 1st Street.
The proposal seeks to rezone a small area along Walnut and Olive Streets from "Neighborhood Small" to "Urban General 2" within the Downtown Character District to allow for more flexible development, including multi-story mixed-use buildings. This change aligns with the Imagine Downtown! Vision Plan and would support projects like a proposed 6-unit townhome on W. 1st Street while maintaining existing property uses.
a) Receive and file proof of publication of notice of hearing. (Notice published 01/28/25)
b) Written communications filed with the City Clerk.
c) Staff comments.
d) Public comments.
e) Pass an ordinance amending the Zoning Map, specifically to amend the Downtown Character District Regulating Plan changing the “Neighborhood Small” frontage designation to “Urban General 2” frontage designation on Walnut and Olive Streets in the first block south of West 1st Street, upon its first consideration.
5. Public hearing, on the proposed plans, specifications, form of contract & estimate of cost for the 2025 Alley Reconstruction Project.
Every year the city reconstructs alleys throughout the city, some are concrete and some are permeable. If you have a concern about your alley, email me and I can send you the current reconstruction schedule!
a) Receive and file proof of publication of notice of hearing. (Notice published 01/28/25)
b) Written communications filed with the City Clerk.
c) Staff comments.
d) Public comments.
e) Resolution approving and adopting the plans, specifications, form of contract & estimate of cost for the 2025 Alley Reconstruction Project.
Old Business
6. Pass Ordinance #3092, providing that general property taxes levied and collected each year on all property located within the Hidden Pines Urban Renewal Area, in the City of Cedar Falls, County of Black Hawk, State of Iowa, by and for the benefit of the State of Iowa, City of Cedar Falls, County of Black Hawk, Cedar Falls Community School District, and other taxing districts, be paid to a special fund for payment of principal and interest on loans, monies advanced to an indebtedness, including bonds issued or to be issued, incurred by the City in connection with the Hidden Pines Urban Renewal Area, upon its third & final consideration.
This ordinance formalizes that a portion of property taxes collected within the Urban Renewal Area will be allocated to the special Housing Trust Fund. Since it requires three readings to pass, you’ll see it on our next agenda as well.
7. Pass Ordinance #3093, designating the Multiresidential Urban Revitalization Area of the City of Cedar Falls, Iowa, upon its second consideration.
The proposed Cedar Falls Multiresidential Urban Revitalization Plan aims to encourage multi-family residential development near Greenhill Road and Cedar Heights Drive in Cedar Falls. Under Iowa Code, City Councils can designate areas for revitalization if they are suitable for economic development, including commercial, industrial, or housing projects, or specifically for residential construction, such as single or multi-family housing.
8. Pass Ordinance #3094, amending the Zoning Map by removing approximately 13.28 acres of property located at the southeast corner of Greenhill and Cedar Heights from R-2, Residential District, and placing the same into MU, Mixed Use Residential District, upon its second consideration.
The applicant is seeking to rezone the property from R-2 Residence District to MU Mixed-Use Residence District. This change would allow them (pending council approval) to build a 195- unit residential development at the southeast corner of Cedar Heights Drive and Greenhill Road.
9. Pass Ordinance #3095, repealing Ordinance #2774 designating the College Hill Urban Revitalization Area in the City of Cedar Falls, Iowa, upon its second consideration.
In October 2024, the City Council approved new residential development incentives, including a 10-year tax exemption for urban revitalization areas. To implement this, the existing College Hill Urban Revitalization Plan must be repealed. A new plan, expanding to include the College Hill area and a larger core, is being drafted for Council consideration.
Consent Calendar: (The following items will be acted upon by voice vote on a single motion without separate discussion, unless someone from the Council or public requests that a specific item be considered separately.)
10. Approve the following recommendation of the Mayor relative to the appointment of members to Boards and Commissions:
Thank you Jack and Thomas for volunteering!!
a) Jack Baumann, Human Rights Commission, term ending 07/01/2026.
b) Thomas Davis, Human Rights Commission, term ending 07/01/2026.
11. Receive and file Departmental Quarterly Reports of October - December 2024.
These reports give insight into the city's quarterly activities.
12. Approve the application of Up In Smoke, 817 West 23rd Street, for a cigarette/tobacco/nicotine/vapor permit.
The City Council is the approving authority for all cigarette/tobacco/nicotine/vapor permits and retail alcohol licenses.
13. Approve the application of Buzz Smoke & Vapor, 2125 College Street, Suite A, for a device retailer permit.
During the 2024 legislative session, the Iowa legislature enacted Senate File 345, which regulates and taxes the sale of devices effective January 1, 2025. Per the legislation, a “device” is defined as any equipment or product, made in whole or in part of glass or metal, that is designed for use in inhaling through combustion tobacco, hemp, other plant materials, or a controlled substance. As part of the retail permit process, the Iowa Department of Revenue requires applications be approved by the city council once the city receives the completed application and appropriate fee.
14. Approve the following applications for retail alcohol licenses:
The City Council is the approving authority for all cigarette/tobacco/nicotine/vapor permits and retail alcohol licenses.
a) Hy-Vee Fast and Fresh, 6527 University Avenue, Class B retail alcohol - renewal.
b) Cottonwood Canyon, 419 Washington Street, Special Class C retail alcohol & outdoor service - renewal.
c) Pheasant Ridge Golf Course, 3205 West 12th Street, Special Class C retail alcohol & outdoor service - renewal.
d) Panther Lounge, 210 East 18th Street, Class C retail alcohol - renewal.
e) Casey's, 1620 West 1st Street, Class E retail alcohol - renewal.
f) Thunder Ridge Ampride, 2425 Whitetail Drive, Class E retail alcohol - renewal.
g) Hy-Vee Fast and Fresh, 6527 University Avenue, Class B retail alcohol - change in ownership.
h) Hy-Vee Market Grille, 6301 University Avenue, Class C retail alcohol - change in ownership.
i) Hy-Vee Food Store, 6301 University Avenue, Class E retail alcohol - change in ownership.
j) Lovana’s Kithcen LLC, 4302 University Avenue, Class C retail alcohol - new.
Resolution Calendar: (The following items will be acted upon by roll call vote on a single motion without separate discussion, unless someone from the Council or public requests that a specific item be considered separately.)
15. Resolution Calendar with items considered separately.
16. Resolution amending Resolution No. 20,502, establishing a University of Northern Iowa student liaison to the City Council and establishing the date of terms of service.
We are so fortunate to have a UNI student liaison sit at the dais with us! They provide valuable insight related to the many students that are apart of our community. Welcome, Isaac!
17. Resolution approving the recommendation and appointing the UNI Student Liaison to the Cedar Falls City Council.
See #16
18. Resolution approving and authorizing execution of a Lease Agreement with the North Cedar Neighborhood Association relative to use of the Lone Tree Road Garage located at 722 West Lone Tree Road.
The NCNA was looking for a space to store some of there equipment used to maintain Center Street. Check out their amazing work! https://www.facebook.com/NorthCedarNeighborhood
19. Resolution approving and authorizing execution of a Lease with Dean Ohrt relative to property vacated by flood buyout programs.
For several years, the City has leased vacant parcels of land to nearby neighbors through a leasing program that benefits both the community and the City. Neighbors maintain and mow the land during the growing season, reducing the City’s maintenance costs and freeing up park staff to focus on other properties. It’s a win-win for everyone!
20. Resolution approving and authorizing execution of a Licensed Training Provider Agreement with The American National Red Cross relative to providing licensed training, materials and certifications for City staff.
This is an agreement for training Rec Staff in Lifeguarding and CPR as part of our programming and aquatic staff certification.
21. Resolution approving and authorizing execution of an Agreement for asbestos testing and clearance monitoring services with Hawkeye Environmental relative to properties located at 515 West 1st Street, 804-806 West Seerley Boulevard, 818 West Seerley Boulevard, and 2413 Olive Street.
In preparation for demolition, all building must be inspected for asbestos.
22. Resolution approving and accepting a Forgivable Loan Agreement and Real Estate Mortgage for property located at 1410 Tremont Street relative to Rental to Single Family Owner Conversion Incentive Program.
Great news! A recently purchased rental home is set to receive a major exterior makeover through the city’s Rental to Single Family Owner Conversion Incentive Program! This initiative, adopted in 2015, offers forgivable loans to encourage rental properties to transition into owner-occupied homes, improving neighborhoods and boosting curb appeal.
For this project, the homeowner will replace siding, upgrade windows for better energy efficiency and security, and repair stairs to enhance safety—all with the help of friends and family. The city is recommending a forgivable loan of up to $4,500, matching the owner’s personal investment. Improvements must be completed by June 15, 2025, with funds disbursed in two phases. A five-year lien will apply, with 20% forgiven each year. This transformation will help revitalize the neighborhood and create a lasting positive impact!
23. Resolution approving and authorizing submission of the Iowa Certified Local Government (CLG) 2024 Annual Report of the Historic Preservation Commission to the State Historical Society of Iowa.
The City of Cedar Falls' Historic Preservation Commission has successfully met the requirements of the Certified Local Government (CLG) program and is seeking to maintain its CLG status. Over the past year, the Commission collaborated with the North Cedar Neighborhood Association to host a well-attended public event featuring a history presentation, a guided walking tour, and an interactive app for children. Additionally, the Commission worked on a CLG grant project to survey the Overman Park neighborhood, with much of the initial work completed by December. A public meeting to share findings is scheduled for mid-2025.
The Commission also made progress on a long-term project to digitize historical resources and improve public access to local history. With all scheduled meetings reaching a quorum, the Commission successfully completed one of its three planned projects for 2024, is on track to complete the second by July 2025, and continues work on the third as an ongoing initiative. A 2025 Work Plan has been developed to guide future preservation efforts.
24. Resolution approving and authorizing execution of an Offer to Buy Real Estate and Acceptance for property located at 421 Grant Street.
Over the past several months City Staff has been working with the Sturgis Falls Celebration, Inc group on the purchase of property located at 421 Grant Street, Cedar Falls, better known as the Gateway Stage. We are excited for the future of Gateway Park!
25. Resolution approving and authorizing execution of an Agreement for Traffic Safety Improvement Program (TSIP) Funding with the Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT) relative to the Highway 57 & Union Road Intersection Improvements Project.
This project will reconstruct the intersection with an updated roundabout design, improving traffic flow and safety at Hwy 57 & Union. The Iowa Department of Transportation, through the Traffic Safety Improvement Program (TSIP), has awarded $500,000 in funding for the project
26. Resolution approving the Certificate of Completion and accepting the work of JQ Construction for the 2024 Sidewalk Assessment Project, Zone 6.
This project involved the repair of deficient sidewalks adjacent to various property owners. This project will assess the cost of repair to the individual property owners.
27. Resolution approving the Final Statement of Expenditures for the 2024 Sidewalk Assessment Project, Zone 6.
In 2023, approximately 592 notices were sent out for defective or missing sidewalks. The notices informed the property owners of their responsibility to repair the adjacent sidewalk. If the property owners didn’t repair the sidewalk, the City would repair the sidewalk and assess the property. Sixty percent of the property owners notified repaired the defective or missing sidewalk, while forty percent of the property owners elected to have the City repair the defective sidewalk. The average cost of a defective sidewalk is $12.39 per square foot.
28. Resolution approving and authorizing execution of a License Agreement with Aureon Network Services relative to installing a fiber optic telecommunications system within the public right-of-way of Hudson Road.
This allows Aureon Network Services to install additional fiber optic cable within the City’s public right-of way.
29. Resolution receiving and filing the bids, and approving and accepting the low bid of Hydro-Klean, LLC, in the amount of $247,948.92, for the 2025 Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation Project.
In a city project, receiving and filing bids is a formal process where the city accepts and records bids from contractors or vendors interested in completing the project.
Receiving Bids – The city officially collects sealed bids from contractors within a set deadline. These bids outline the cost, timeline, and approach the contractor would take to complete the project.
Filing Bids – The received bids are documented and made part of the official record. This does not mean a bid is accepted; it simply acknowledges that bids have been submitted and will be reviewed.
Next Steps – After filing, city staff or a designated committee will review and evaluate the bids based on cost, qualifications, and compliance with project requirements. A recommendation is then made to the city council for approval.
Essentially, this step ensures transparency and accountability in the bidding process before selecting a contractor for the project.
30. Resolution approving and authorizing execution of an Agreement for Location of Facilities within City of Cedar Falls Right-of-way; Subordination Agreement; and Grant License with the Waterloo Water Works, a municipal utility of the City of Waterloo, in conjunction with the Hidden Pines Addition.
This is an agreement with Waterloo Water Works to allow the placement of a watermain and utility easement across future Cedar Falls rights-of-way in the Hidden Pines Addition development. This agreement ensures water service for Waterloo while maintaining Cedar Falls' ability to manage its right-of-way in accordance with federal and state laws. The agreement follows previous utility agreements and includes necessary easements and plats. The Engineering Division recommends approval.
31. Resolution approving and authorizing execution of a Contract for Completion of Improvements with UMENB, LLC, relative to the final plat of Hidden Pines Addition.
The developer of the Hidden Pines Addition is seeking Final Plat approval to move forward with lot sales. To ensure completion of the required improvements, they have submitted a contract and a Maintenance Bond for public improvements.
32. Resolution approving the final plat for Hidden Pines Addition (Contingent upon approval of previous item)
A Final Plat is the official, recorded map of a subdivision that legally establishes property boundaries, streets, easements, and other important features. It is the final step in the subdivision approval process, following the Preliminary Plat, and must meet all city regulations and conditions set by the local government. Once approved by the City Council, the Final Plat allows the sale of individual lots and the issuance of building permits
33. Resolution approving and authorizing execution of a Storm Water Maintenance and Repair Agreement with UMENB, LLC, relative to a post-construction stormwater management plan for the Hidden Pines Addition. (Contingent upon approval of previous item)
The Post-Construction Stormwater Control Ordinance requires a Maintenance and Repair Agreement to ensure proper upkeep of stormwater management systems. This agreement mandates annual inspections, record-keeping of maintenance activities, and grants the City the right to inspect and repair the system if the property owner fails to comply.
34. Resolution setting February 17, 2025 as the date of public hearing on proposed amendments to the Cedar Falls Zoning Map from A-1, Agricultural Zoning District to R-P, Planned Residence District approximately 2.68 acres of property located at the south side of West 1st Street.
Scheduling a public hearing informs the public of the date when the council will vote on an item. ME Associates is requesting to rezone 2.68 acres of land located south of W 1st Street and east of Winding Ridge Estates from A-1 Agriculture District to R-P Planned Residence District.
As part of the rezoning process, the applicant must submit a Master Plan for review, though it cannot be approved until the rezoning is finalized.
Allow Bills and Claims
35. Allow Bills and Claims for February 3, 2025.
The council serves as the approving authority for all bills and claims submitted to the city since the previous council meeting.
Council Updates and Announcements
Council Referrals
Executive Session
36. Executive Session to discuss Property Acquisition per Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(j) to discuss the purchase or sale of particular real estate only where premature disclosure could be reasonably expected to increase the price the governmental body would have to pay for that property or reduce the price the governmental body would receive for that property.
An executive session is a private part of a city council meeting where council members discuss sensitive or confidential issues away from the public eye. Unlike most of our meetings, which are open to everyone, executive sessions are closed to protect important information.
In this case, the executive session is necessary because the city is looking to buy or sell specific pieces of real estate. If details about these transactions were made public too soon, it could lead to higher prices that the city would have to pay for the property. By keeping these discussions private, the council can negotiate better deals and make informed decisions without outside factors driving up costs.
Thank you to our residents for understanding the importance of executive sessions in ensuring that the city can manage its resources effectively and make decisions that best serve the community.
Adjournment
