Amendment to 2018 State Legislative Priorities Copyrighted
February 5, 2018
City of Dubuque Consent Items # 19.
ITEM TITLE: Amendment to 2018 State Legislative Priorities
SUMMARY: City Manager recommending approval of the amended
2018 State Legislative Priorities to include Mental Health
and Dubuque Community School District partner priority
resolution of Formula and Transportation Inequities.
SUGGESTED DISPOSITION: Suggested Disposition: Receive and File; Approve
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type
Amendment to the 2018 State Legislati� Priorities- City Manager Memo
NNM Memo
Staff Memo Staff Memo
Amended 2018 State Legislative Priorities Supporting Documentation
THE CITY OF Dubuque
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TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
SUBJECT: Amendments to the 2018 State Legislative Priorities
DATE: February 1 , 2018
Assistant City Manager Teri Goodmann recommends City Council approval of the
amended 2018 State Legislative Priorities to include Mental Health, Dubuque
Community School District partner priority resolution of Formula and Transportation
Inequities, and additional State Financing for Juvenile Court Services.
I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council
approval.
�� �� ���
Mic ael C. Van Milligen �� �
MCVM:jh
Attachment
cc: Crenna Brumwell, City Attorney
Teri Goodmann, Assistant City Manager
Cori Burbach, Assistant City Manager
THE CTTY OF Dubuque
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TO: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
FROM: Teri Goodmann, Assistant City Manager
DATE: February 1 , 2018
SUBJECT: Amendments to the 2018 State Legislative Priorities
Backqround
Advocacy for City Council goals and priorities is reflected in the legislative priorities
documents prepared annually by City staff. The document is organic and is amended
when programs and policies emerge in support of the Council's goals and priorities.
These amendments can originate with City staff, legislators and/or partners in the
Dubuque community.
Discussion
Public Health Specialist Mary Rose Corrigan became aware of the final report and
recommendations by the Complex Service Needs Workgroup (stakeholder group
convened by the Department of Human Services through 2017 lowa Acts, Chapter 109,
Section 17). City of Dubuque Public Health and Safety officials recognize the positive
aspects of the recommendations that align with City Council priorities. The
recommendations are very comprehensive and address the continuum of care for
behavioral and mental health issues, from mild to serious diagnoses. The
recommendations also provide the opportunity for the regions to collaborate certain
types of facilities and treatments. The recommendations address law
enforcement issues and provides tools for law-enforcement and other entities working in
community health.
The Dubuque Community School District has also identified a legislative priority that
aligns with the City of Dubuque. The priority seeks state legislation that will resolve
transportation funding inequities and provide additional funding for educational
programming for the Dubuque Community School District. This directly impacts the
vitality and future workforce in Dubuque.
City officials have also become of aware of proposed cuts in funding to the lowa Judicial
Branch. Proposed cuts would create a negative impact on the level of services
provided by the Judicial Branch and specifically by the Juvenile Court Services. These
cuts would have a direct impact in the City of Dubuque, Dubuque County and other
counties in the First District. Staff in the Juvenile Court offices have experienced nearly
a fifty percent reduction in staff already. Additional cuts would jeopardize services
provided by Juvenile Court Offices and would compromise public safety.
Recommendation
Receive and file amended 2018 State Legislative Priorities document to include a City
of Dubuque Mental Health priority resolution outlining support for recommendations
provided by the Department of Human Services' stakeholder task force, a City of
Dubuque Public Safety priority requesting full funding of the lowa Judicial Branch and
specifically Juvenile Court Services and finally, a Dubuque Community School District
partner priority calling for the Resolution of Formula and Transportation Inequities.
2
Dubuque
THE CITY OF �
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2018
State Legislative Priorities
Table of Contents
Artsand Culture....................................................................................................................... 28
Economic Develooment........................................................................................................... 6
Emeraencv Manaaement— Homeland Securitv............................................................... 17
Historic Preservation .............................................................................................................. 23
Housina....................................................................................................................................... 15
HumanResources ................................................................................................................... 19
lowaCode Chancles................................................................................................................. 20
LibrarvServices ....................................................................................................................... 18
ParkandRecreation................................................................................................................ 24
Partne rsh i os.............................................................................................................................. 37
Plannina &Zonina ................................................................................................................... 22
PublicHealth ............................................................................................................................. 32
PublicSafetv............................................................................................................................... 2
StateMandates......................................................................................................................... 11
StateTax Policv.......................................................................................................................... 9
SustainabiliN............................................................................................................................. 30
Technoloav and Innovation .................................................................................................. 15
Transoortation .......................................................................................................................... 11
1
Public Safetv
On January 24, 2017, Dubuque Chief of Police Mark Dalsing and Davenport Chief Paul
Sikorski, along with the County Attorneys from Polk and Blackhawk Counties, and the Mayor of
Des Moines, testified before the lowa Senate Judiciary Committee to request the State take a
harder look at firearms and violent crime issues across the state.
Chief Dalsinq qave a statement requestinq the followinq, and this is Dubuque's current
Requested Action:
• Requirements for high, cash-only bonds for crimes involving firearms or
violent crime
• Review of existing codes to determine if penalties are sufficient (as
compared to federal penalties)
• Exploration of new codes to address additional unauthorized persons
possessing firearms (as compared to federal codes)
• Exploration of limitations on plea bargains for cases involving firearms or
violent crime
• Review of sentencing guidelines for gun crimes, including mandatory
minimums
• Analytical research into the individuals involved in gun crime and violent
crime for commonalities and cause and effect variables so effective
treatment can take place
Chief Dalsing has provided the following information on shots fired calls:
Confirmed Shots
Fired Murders Notes
2016* 2017** 2016* 2017**
Dubuque 26 19 1 1
Davenport 152 146 6 12 2017 Statistics are through
11/08/17; All 2017 murders have
been with firearms
Cedar Rapids 77 67 4 4 Shots fired Statistics are through
10/31 of each year
Waterloo 99 84 3 5 2017 Shots fired statistics are
through 11/01/17
lowa City 20 20 0 3
Ames 3 3 1 0
" 2016 - Full calendar year unless
noted
" " 2017 - Year to date unless noted
As you can see from these headlines from across the state of lowa, gun violence is
becoming more prevalent and deserves some attention from the state legislature.
2
IOWA HEADLINES
ONE OF THE MOST VIOLENT YEARS IN CEDAR RAPIDS HISTORY
Cedar Rapids Gazette — Dec. 28, 2014
• Eight homicides in six incidents, CR had not had more than three homicides since 2006
• 93 shootings, previous record was 64 in 2012
• 9 shooting arrests
90 SHOOTINGS REPORTED IN CEDAR RAPIDS SO FAR THIS YEAR
Cedar Rapids Gazette — Nov. 24, 2015
As in years past, gun violence hit the high water mark during the summer. June, July and August
had 11, 16 and 14 shooting incidents.
Gun violence drops in Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids Gazette —January 22, 2017
Despite the brutal start, Cedar Rapids in 2016 saw its first drop of shots-fired incidents in three
years. Overall, there were 86 such incidents last year, a 14 percent decrease from 2015's total of
100.
Importantly, homicides also were down in 2016: four compared with six in 2015 and eight in 2014.
Trio of Cedar Rapids shootinqs remain under investiqation
City has seen 64 shots �red incidents so far this year
Cedar Rapids Gazette —Oct. 23, 2017
Police said when the victim approached Rarey about his insult, Rarey pulled a knife and stabbed the
man twice in the abdomen. The man was hospitalized for several days due to his injuries, police
said. Rarey admitted to the stabbing.
Strinq of serious lowa Citv crimes, homicides put police, prosecutors to the test
Authorities working long hours on homicide, attempted murder investigations
Cedar Rapids Gazette —Oct. 20, 2017
There have been three homicide investigations this year. From 2010 to 2016, there were two
homicides investigated by lowa City police. The last time three homicide investigations took place in
the same year was 2008.
There also have been four attempted murder investigations this year, up from only one in 2016.
2014 WAS A DEADLY YEAR FOR WATERLOO
Waterloo/Cedar Falls Courier—March 22, 2015
Crime numbers released by the Waterloo Police Department show 2014 had the highest number of
slayings in 20 years with six people the victim of homicide.
UPDATE: One dead, one iniured in Cedar Falls shootinq
Waterloo/Cedar Falls Courier— Nov. 11, 2017
Alex Michael Bullerman, 18, of Waterloo, died of a single gunshot wound after he was found behind
an apartment building at 2303 Olive St., according to Cedar Fall police.
A short time later, 18-year-old Dylan James Gehrke, also of Waterloo, arrived at a hospital by private
vehicle with a single gunshot wound to his lower right leg.
3
SHOOTING `EVERY DAY' REQUIRES COMMUNITY RESPONSE
Quad City Times—Sept. 19, 2015
• 125 shootings so far, more than 2014's total
• 29 shooting arrests so far
RESIDENTS REACT TO SHOOTINGS: 'We don't feel safe anvmore'
Quad City Times—March 19, 2016
2016 Shots fired calls down sliqhtiv from 2015
Quad City Times— Dec. 27, 2016
Davenport police have responded to 150 confirmed reports of shots fired since Jan. 1, down from
168 in 2015, according to data obtained by the Quad-City Times.
SIOUX CITY POLICE CONFIRM THIRD DRIVE-BY SHOOTING
Sioux City Journal— July 9, 2015
Three drive-bv shootinqs reported Tuesdav
Des Moines Register— Dec. 2, 2015
Des Moines police responded to three reports of gunshots that hit houses and cars on the city's east
side.
. . . iYs more evidence of an apparent uptick in gun violence since the city's suffered five deaths
during three separate shootings in the past 10 days.
21 Des Moines homicides most since 1990
Des Moines Register—Jan. 5, 2016
If 2015 seemed like a particularly violent and deadly year for Des Moines, iYs because it was.
Des Moines hit bv 31 drive-bvs in 6 months
Des Moines Register—July 27, 2016
Through the end of June, 31 drive-by shootings were reported in the city. ThaYs the most drive-bys
through the first six months of any year since 2011. There were 22 reported during the same period
last year, 16 in 2014 and 22 in 2013, according to the Des Moines Police Department.
`He was full of dreams and potential': 14-vear-old homicide victim laid to rest
Des Moines Register— Nov. 6, 2016
11 Des Moines homicides remain unsolved in past 2 vears
Des Moines Register—May 10, 2017
As Des Moines police deal with an unusually high number of homicides so far this year, 11 homicide
cases from the past two years remain unsolved.
Suspects in Des Moines' 19�'' homicide this vear have criminal qanq charqes in
their history
WHOTV.com —July 29, 2017
Man arrested after shootinq at busv Ankenv intersection
Des Moines Register— Nov. 25, 2016
4
Police: Man in critical condition after Ames shootinq
Des Moines Register— Dec. 28, 2016
Four eo le arrested after drive-b shootin in Ames
Radio lowa— Feb. 20, 2017
One dead, two wounded in several shootinqs in Burlinqton
KWQC— Nov. 23, 2016
Dubu ue olice investi ate 2 more shots-fired re orts Wednesda • 1 confirmed
Telegraph Herald — Dec. 3, 2015
... shooting marks the 33rd confirmed shots-fired incident this year in Dubuque.
Police reported 25 such incidents in both 2013 and 2014.
Dubuque police investiqatinq reports of qunshots overniqht
Telegraph Herald —Sept. 13, 2017
It marks the 15th confirmed instance of gunshots fired in Dubuque this year, according to the Police
Department. There were 26 shots-fired incidents in 2016 in Dubuque.
IOWA POLICE CHIEFS AIM FOR SOLUTION TO RISING GUN VIOLENCE
Meeting in Cedar Rapids shows that Dubuque's recent rise in gun violence is not unique in the
state.
Telegraph Herald —Jan. 16, 2016
The chiefs of eastern lowa's biggest police departments met this week to address across-the-
board increases in gun violence in recent years.
Dubuque, which had 33 confirmed instances of gunshots fired in 2015, is not the only community to
see a spike in shootings in recent years, according to Police Chief Mark Dalsing. During a meeting
Wednesday in Cedar Rapids, police leaders of the host city, Ames, Davenport, lowa City and
Waterloo also reported increases in recent years.
In Waterloo, police confirmed more than 120 shots-fired incidents in 2015, according to Police
Chief Daniel Trelka. The year before, officers confirmed fewer than 100.
The chiefs will continue to meet to discuss trends and ways to address concerns, Dalsing said. He
said he also will look at working with legislators to find ways for additional legal remedies to
shootings.
Full Fundinq for Judicial Branch Services
Public safety and basic tenet of judicial process depends upon a robust fully-funded
judiciary which provides for its citizen clients: access, timely processing, staffing and
services. Critical funding must be provided for all judicial services including juvenile
court offices and services, drug court, and judicial access.
Recommended Action:
Support legislation which provides full-funding for the requested budget of
the State of lowa's judicial branch. To do otherwise jeopardizes work being
done with youth and is a compromise to public safety.
5
Economic Development
The role of city government in economic development is crucial. Economic activity requires
roads, streets, airports, water and sanitation. Newjobs necessitate more and better workforce
housing. Growing businesses seek quality of life amenities for employees and families, such as
parks, recreation, bike trails, art, museums, and libraries. Protection and safety of property and
life must be assured. A community must value equity and be welcoming. This can only be
accomplished with the strong support of an effective city government in partnership with local
private sector and non-profit leaders and state and federal government officials.
Tax Increment Financinq (TIF)
The lowa Code provides that cities can use TIF for certain public and private economic
development purposes once an urban renewal plan is approved and an urban renewal district
established. The ability to use TIF to assist private economic development projects in urban
renewal districts is an essential ingredient of the City of Dubuque's nationally recognized
success, providing financing and incentive for private investment.
The City of Dubuque has prioritized the redevelopment of our urban core; cities need tools like
TIF to accomplish this. The Slum and Blight Urban Renewal TIF allows cities across the state
to reclaim their urban cores, restore otherwise abandoned historic properties, and create more
sustainable communities. TIF is perhaps the most important Smart Growth tool available to
cities.
Since the City of Dubuque began using TIF in earnest in the 1990's, there have been a total of
74 corporate projects which have had the benefit of $455,718,152 in direct TIF incentives to
date. These projects have leveraged $501,779,204 in additional capital investment. These
projects have resulted in the retention of more than 3,120 jobs in Dubuque and the creation of
4,950 jobs. This does not include many of the jobs added to the downtown employment base
where there was no direct TIF agreement with the employer but rather the projects were
facilitated by loan pools and other methods benefiting from the Downtown TIF district.
This has all worked because responsible elected officials, who while acting in an entrepreneurial
fashion to encourage community growth, have used TIF, the City's only meaningful local
economic incentive in a strategic fashion.
Dubuque has leveraged TIF to achieve consistent, significant job growth and maintain a strong,
diversified local economy. The Milken Institute named Dubuque its 10th Best-Performing Small
Metro for 2013, the same year that Forbes ranked Dubuque 14th in the nation in its annual
"Best Small Places for Business and Careers." Wages and income for residents have grown, as
evidenced by a 14% increase in median household income from 2009 ($48,012) to 2015
($54,605). In September 2017, lowa Workforce Development reported Dubuque County's total
non-farm employment to be 60,000, a 60% increase from 37,700 in 1983. Dubuque'
unemployment rate just 2.7% in September 2017, a tremendous rebound from 1983 when it
was 12.1%! This type of job growth and low unemployment is only possible through the
strategic use of TIF.
Since TIF is really the only economic development financing tool available to lowa cities,
Dubuque often uses TIF as the local match required when partnering with the lowa Economic
Development Authority. This was certainly the case with the 1,300 jobs created by IBM, the
over 200 jobs at Hormel and the 388 jobs retained and created by A.Y. McDonald. Without the
flexibility this tool provides, Dubuque would not have this kind of success in job creation and
retention.
6
A very important priority of the City of Dubuque, the Historic Millwork District, benefited initially
with a $105 million investment of private and public dollars, rebuilding much of the street
network, underground utilities, creating parking and renovating
the Caradco Building (Schmid Innovation Center) into 72
apartments, and 35,000 square feet of commercial and retail �� i �'° '
space. Two additional buildings requiring approximately $40 ��� : ib�io-- . ' ��
million in investment, with 92 additional apartments and %��. �� ' � � �� � ]� � �� >>r
thousands of square feet of commercial industrial space were " «�� 81 � � �'��»����
renovated and came online in 2015. Ultimately, the entire ������,��, �,��,i��4��
Historic Millwork District will have over $200 million in ���
investment leveraging new business creation and much � ._
needed workforce housing for Dubuque. This Historic Millwork
District slum and blight subarea TIF was established in 2008. Legislative proposals which place
restrictions on Slum and Blight Urban Renewal TIF Districts would rapidly dissolve the City's
financial investment in this priority project for the City of Dubuque which will require many more
years, and likely decades, of investment in order to reach its potential.
The City's new 125-acre industrial area would not have been possible if the proposed
legislation forcing "sun-setting" of economic development TIFs would be put in place.
The City of Dubuque has successfully and responsibly used tax increment financing to create
more jobs per capita than any other city in the State of lowa.
Proposed TIF reform that would prohibit the use of TIF revenue on public buildings,
which would stop the creation of parking ramps (vital to the economic viability of
downtown businesses!) and City efforts to restore the Historic Federal Building, an
iconic anchor building in the downtown allowed to go into disrepair bythe Federal
Government, would be opposed by the City of Dubuque.
The City of Dubuque understands the need for increased transparency, fastidious data
collection and antipiracy language in TIF reform, but cannot support reform that limits or sunsets
the City's use of slum and blight and economic development TIFs.
Even in these areas, the language should be narrowly crafted so as not to stifle economic and
community development activities by cities. No language should be included that could limit or
destroyjob creation and economic development potential that exists in current TIF laws.
Repuested Action:
Support efforts to maintain Tax Increment Financing as an economic
development financing tool. Oppose restrictions on use of TIF for public
infrastructure and oppose the "sunsetting" of TIF districts.
7
City of Dubuque
New Taxing BodiesTax$- Retiring TIF Districts,in First Year of Expiration
$1,869,819
■DCSD, $830,125
$1,900,000 I ■City,$603,720
$1,800,000 1 County,5349,008
51���•�� -I •NICC, $51,966
$1,600,000 �Other, $35,000
$1,500,000 �
$1,400,000 $770,265
$1,300,000 � $526,845 ■DCSD,$341,968
$1,200,000 -I ■DCSD,$233,898 ■City,$248,701
■City,$170,106 S38Z'$91 Count
$1,100,000 County,$95,337 y,$143,773
Si,000,000 ■Nicc, $ia,6az ■ocso,5i69,9as ■Nicc, Szi,ao�
�Other, $9,862 ■City,$123,626 '�'Other, $14,418
$9�'�� County,$71,468
58�•�� -I ■NICC, $10,641
$700,000 -I �other, $7,167
$442,161
$600,000 -I
$500,000 -I
$400,000
$300,000
$200,000 $17.480
$100,000 �
$-
Already Tech ParkSouth DICW-Subarea Quebecor-2025 Kerper-2032 DICW-Subarea
Returned to -2019 B-2019 D-2032
7abng Bodies Total Annual Return to Schools,County&City=$4,009,464
This is what will go to the Taxing Bodies in the first year after expiration of the Urban Renewal District.
Based on current tax rate of Taxing Bodies and 1/1/16 assessed value,even though It is expected that the assessed value would increase
before the district expiration.
Eminent Domain
During 2006, the Legislature approved changes to the Eminent Domain Law. Included in the
changes, and of particular concern, is the requirement that seventy-five percent or more of the
area included in the urban renewal plan must consist of property in a slum or blighted condition
at the time the plan was established in order for the entire project or acquisition plan area to be
subject to condemnation by the municipality. We believe that a 51% threshold is more
reasonable. Furthermore, the new language provides that the project or acquisition plan area
shall only include the adjacent and contiguous parcels necessary for the completion of planned
activities for a specific business or housing project. This language would be limiting for
downtown development projects that may be larger in scope than just the parcels that meet the
definition of slum and blight. Lastly, the burden for the use of eminent domain for airport project
is increased by the requirement that the Board of Supervisors must hold a public hearing and
pass a resolution unless the airport improvement is FAA-required. This creates additional
layers of burden on a municipality.
Requested Action:
Support efforts to amend sections of the Eminent Domain Law to allow for
changes as proposed by the lowa League of Cities and noted above.
State Historic Tax Credits
The lowa Historic Preservation Tax Credit was passed in May 2000 to promote investment in
our historic resources in communities, codified in Section 404A.4. Rehabilitation of these
resources contributes to the economic viability as well as the strength of our communities. The
secondary impacts of this historic tax credit on our communities are countless. The program
provides a tax credit of 25% of the qualified rehabilitation expenses for qualified projects. Thus,
8
each credit represents an investment in our community of at least four times the amount of the
credit. Additional revenues are generated through increased property taxes, income taxes, and
sales taxes.
The cap for the program is currently set at $45 million per year.
Between the beginning of the program in 2000 and the year 2013 (the most recent year for
which we have total project costs available from the state), Dubuque completed 31 projects
using the State Historic Tax Credit program. Just over $42 million in SHTC funding leveraged
over $142 million in additional funding sources. And, between 2014 and 2016 an additional 13
projects were awarded funding by the state.
These projects have added well over 2,000 permanent jobs to our economy, not including the
construction jobs to complete the large projects. These 2,000 people would equate to an $80
million annual payroll.
Critical workforce housing needs in the City of Dubuque make state historic tax credits and
other financial incentives a top priority as the City works to promote redevelopment and
reinvestment in our urban core.
Recent concerns raised by the lowa Department of Revenue have resulted in a slowdown of the
State Historic Tax Credit program.
Requested Action:
Join with local governments across the state and private sector partners
through membership in Smart Growth Development Coalition, work to
preserve and expand the State Historic Tax Credit program.
Qualitv of Life and Communitv Enhancements
Successful quality of life programs need continued funding, such as Enhance lowa, REAP, CAT
funds, RECAT lowa Great Places, the lowa Main Street program funds, and tax credits for
historic preservation.
Requested Action:
Protect and enhance economic development tools enabling cities in lowa
to promote economic improvement throughout the state.
State Tax Policv
Propertv Tax
The current tax structure for state and local governments is a mix of tax laws, rates and policies
that do not provide for a fair and consistent tax system. The lowa League of Cities and the lowa
State Association of Counties (ISAC) have identified key areas needing revision for a
comprehensive tax reform in lowa. They include: 1) changes to assessment and valuation
procedure, 2) changes to city and county budgeting processes, 3) developing an alternative to
current property tax limitations, and 4) elimination of the rollback formula and homestead
exemption.
9
Requested Action:
Work with the lowa League of Cities, the Metropolitan Coalition and ISAC to
approve legislation to design a tax structure that provides tax equity and
policies that are consistent with an overall direction for state and local
government taxation.
Commercial Propertv Tax Reform and Backfill
Legislation providing for commercial property tax reform passed in the lowa Assembly in 2013.
This legislation included language providing for cities in order to protect local residential
taxpayers would not bear the tax burden of this reform bill.
Requested Action:
Continue to hold lowa cities and residential property tax payers harmless
for the backfill created by the commercial property tax reform legislation.
Continue backfill payments to local governments.
Local Option Sales Tax
The State should give consideration to increasing the allowable local option sales tax from 1%
to 1.5%. This would allow local governments more flexibility to deal with any negative impacts
property tax reform may cause. In the case of Dubuque, an increase of 0.50% in local option
sales tax would generate approximately$4 million dollars, half of which is used for property tax
relief.
Requested Action:
Increase the allowable local option sales tax from 1% to 1.5%.
Repeal Amended Administrative Rule ARC2178C
Recent actions by the State Administrative Rules committee have preempted the actions of the
Legislature in defining lowa Tax Code. Consequences of this action by the Administrative Rules
Committee will have an impact on City of Dubuque revenues and specifically have an adverse
impact on the Flood Mitigation Program of harvesting sales tax increment to pay for bonds
issued.
Requested Action:
Seek legislation to disapprove of any amended revenue rules adopted by
the lowa Department of Revenue as proposed in ARC 2178C that "expand
the number of items that qualify as exempt computers, machinery, or
equipmenY' in lowa Code Chapter 423, which is how the proposed rules
described what they are intended to do.
Assessor's Bill
Property tax experts or representatives are now part of the tax appeal process. A tax
representative can file an appeal for a large commercial property under a contingency basis,
receiving their pay based on a percentage of the property tax savings they can achieve for their
10
client. In many of these cases little or no money is expended by the taxpayer. The
representative files a protest with the Board of Review and supplies little or no information to the
Board. The Board may deny the protest but the tax representative will file a protest to either
District Court or the Property Assessment Appeal Board. At this point the tax representative
may produce more information or they may try to negotiate a settlement. On the assessor's
side it may be very costly to hire appraisals and fight this out in Court. A single appraisal for a
large Commercial or Industrial property will easily exceed $5000.
Also, many appeals to the Board of Review are filed at the last minute with a statement such as
information to be presented at hearing. Many appellants never provide the information or
provide it very late in the Board of Review session so the Board is unable to reach a well-
founded conclusion.
Requested Action:
Request the lowa Legislature to limit appeals to District Court and the
Property Assessment Appeal Board to matters and information that were
presented before the local Board of Review.
State Mandates
Cities are often faced with implementing mandates from the state and federal governments
without receiving the necessary funds for implementation.
Repuested Action:
Enact legislation that exempts local government from providing any new
service or engaging in any new activities mandated by the state if the state
does not provide full funding for the mandated additional staff, equipment
and infrastructure.
Transportation
Southwest Arterial fundinq
Dubuque is the regional economic center for the lowa, Illinois
and Wisconsin tri-state area. With local international
companies and businesses such as the John Deere Dubuque
Works, Nordstrom Distribution Center, Mc Graw Hill Publishing � �~=' �
Company, AY McDonald Manufacturing, Flexsteel Industries, ;� - � ��r
Kendall/Hunt Publishing and Hormel Food Corporation, a 21st ?; � '.-'��,
century transportation infrastructure system is essential. In ' "
order to continue the consistent and strong economic growth
and job creation in the tri state area, critical transportation infrastructure requires increased state
and federal funding.
Transportation projects and improvements in Dubuque include:
• Completion of the four-lane South West regional connector
11
• Planning, design, ROW acquisition and construction of the East West Corridor
• Improvements and enhancements of the at grade railroad crossings in Downtown
Dubuque
• Street improvements and more
Requested Action:
In order to increase transportation revenue for these and other important
transportation projects the City requests support of the lowa Department of
Transportation Commission to maintain its current programed funding for
the Southwest Arterial in the lowa Five Year Highway Transportation
Improvement Plan and increase the funding to ensure paving of a four-lane
arterial connector.
lowa's Road Use Tax Fund (RUTF)
Local governments recognize that local transportation systems carry great importance not only
for public safety and quality of life, but also for mobility, commerce, community vitality and
economic development. The transportation system is in demand 24 hours a day, regardless of
its road and bridge conditions or other factors. When existing funding sources are inadequate
to address failing or deteriorating infrastructure needs, local governments are faced with aging
and limited infrastructure as well as safety concerns. While the State of lowa's gas tax increase
in 2015 increased current and near-future Road Use Tax Fund revenues, consideration needs
to be given to future road funding needs and mechanisms as lowa's drivers purchase fewer
gallons of conventional vehicle fuels.
Requested Action:
Investigate alternative funding mechanisms to increase funding for lowa's
transportation infrastructure.
Passenqer Rail
Through the Envision 2010 process, the Citizens of Dubuque have established a Passenger
Rail Committee to support and promote the return of passenger rail service from Chicago to
Dubuque.
There is a Memorandum of Understanding with the State of Illinois to implement passenger rail
service between Chicago and Dubuque. Currently funding provides for connection from
Chicago to Rockford, Illinois.
Requested Action:
Support the return of passenger rail from Chicago to Dubuque.
Airport Infrastructure Reinvestment for lowa (AIR-lowa)
Recognizing that to compete in a 21st century marketplace, lowa must have a modern and serviceable
transportation infrastructure. lowa has made significant investments in transportation infrastructure; we
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consider the next logical place to turn our attention to is the state of lowa's air transport infrastructure.
Investing in aviation is essential to ensure lowa remains competitive in today's increasingly global
marketplace.
The state currently allocates only $1.4M dollars a year on vertical infrastructure to be distributed to lowa's
public use airports, both commercial and general aviation. The Commercial Service Vertical Infrastructure
(CSVI) program is capped at $900K, and is derived from lowa's Rebuild lowa Infrastructure Fund (RIIF).
The General Aviation Vertical Infrastructure (GAVI) is derived from lowa's State Aviation Fund (SAF) and
is capped at $500K. The aforementioned amounts represent a cut of $850k from FY17 and are woefully
inadequate to address the current and growing demands on lowa's system of airports.
According to the State Aviation System Plan (2010-2030) lowa's aviation system need is $816M or $43M
per year. From commercial passenger, to commercial freight, and our general aviation usage, our airports
need significant upgrades if lowa is to remain competitive in a global marketplace.
The Dubuque Regional Airport endorses the proposal made by the lowa Public Airports Association
(IPAA) to commit to support its airports in developing and maintaining its airport infrastructure by creating
a special airport infrastructure program (AIR-lowa) that would include:
• A total of $165M over a period of ten (10) years. This represents an additional $140M over the
10-year term out of the RIIF fund, and includes the current $2.25M per year the state currently
allocates for airport vertical infrastructure programs - $1.5 million from RIIF and the remaining
$750,000 from the SAF. The total investment of $165M, and over the period of 10-years, would
be derived entirely from lowa's RIIF program.
• A total of $135M to Commercial Service Airports over a period of ten (10) years, or $13.5M
annually. To be eligible for this level of funding, a facility would have to meet the federal definition
of a Commercial Service Airport, and funds would be allocated as follows:
1. Each of the eight (8) Commercial Service Airports would receive $300,000; and,
2. The remaining funds would be dispersed and/or allocated based upon the percent of
passenger enplanements, and similar to the current FAA entitlement funding formula for the
distribution of grants issued from the Airport Improvement Program (AIP).
• The remaining $30M would be allocated to lowa's General Aviation Airports over the 10-year
period or $3M annually. The funds would be allocated according to the current project priority
rating system as administered by lowa's Department of Transportation via the Office of Aviation.
All funds dispersed would requue a 5%local match by the Airport Owner.
Air Service Development Fundinq
DBQ participated in meetings with lowa Legislators and staff along with the seven other
commercial airports in developing a series of recommendations to the lowa Legislature
to promote, sustain, and grow commercial airline service in lowa. This was the result of
the 2014 lowa DOT Omnibus bill, Senate File 2355, forming the lowa Air Service
Retention and Expansion Committee to develop a plan for the retention and expansion
of passenger air service in lowa. Several specific actions were identified below:
Requested Action:
Encourage airports to conduct local passenger service
strategic/contingency planning and assist airports as appropriate (Airports
need state funding assistance in these plans and studies)
Strengthen advocacy for federal programs - Arrange meeting with lowa
DOT, air service communities, and federal delegation
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Airport Improvement Program - Long-term reauthorization with increase in
funding levels — Stop diverting trust funds intended for airport projects to
FAA operations
Essential Air Service Program - Lighten restrictions of eligibility
requirements to assist existing commercial service airports in maintaining
passenger air service.
Airport Improvement Program - Stop diversion of use tax on aircraft sales
from the State Aviation Fund to the General Fund
Aviation Tax Policv
lowa airports and aviation industry have requested sales and use tax policy changes to
remain competitive with our neighboring states. Our customers are traveling to
Minnesota and elsewhere for work on their aircraft which used to be performed in IA.
Unless this trend is reversed, this will lead to loss of jobs, closed businesses, and a
weaker aviation industry.
Requested Action:
Aviation related taxes and tax policies must be kept competitive and
comparable with neighboring states.
Effective Control of Wildlife Aviation Hazards
Deer and other animals continue to be hazards to aviation in our state. Pilots and airport
managers continue to report an alarming increase in the number of runway incursions by wild
animals. Public airports should be allowed to engage in timely and appropriate depredation
efforts for their facilities. Shotguns lack the range for large open spaces like airports. The
elimination of the wildlife hazards should not be considered hunting and the techniques for the
elimination of the hazard should include any weapon legal anywhere in the State of lowa at the
discretion of the airport management. We are not hunting, we are removing a threat to life and
property.
Requested Action:
A change to the shooting permit language is needed. Specifically, items (9)
"Legal weapons and restrictions will be governed by 571-106.7(481.A).
Center-fire rifles are currently legal only in the southern two tiers of
counties in lowa." Also, requiring changes is line (10) "All other applicable
deer hunting rules and pertinent license requirement apply to shooting
permits." Allow airports the use of rifles to eliminate wildlife hazards to
flight.
Protect Airport Zoninq and Airspace
Protecting and preserving airport approach and departure paths is one of the main
reasons airport protections were placed in the lowa Code many years ago. The safety
and protection of the public, pilots and passengers must not be placed secondary to
tower siting considerations.
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Requested Action:
DBQ opposes any efforts to eliminate, supersede, or lessen the zoning and
airspace protection abilities of local communities for their public airports.
Technoloqv and Innovation
Broadband Infrastructure
Dubuque supports state efforts to expand broadband access and speeds in the state. Like
water, sewer, energy and roads, affordable access to globally relevant internet speeds is a
minimum infrastructure necessary to the quality of life of our families and the competitiveness of
our businesses. State policy should support and incent public/private collaborations to
accelerate broadband access and services. State policy should support innovations in new
technologies and flexibility in existing systems like the lowa Communication Network (ICN).
State policy should fund innovative approaches by local communities to bring globally relevant
broadband speed and services to under-served and hard to serve populations. State policy
should not hamper local municipalities from directly addressing the issue and providing service
to citizens where appropriate. Also, while we support the concept of improved efficiency and
transparency in the regulatory process to encourage private broadband investment, we ask that
care be taken with State policy to assure there is sufficient flexibility for local government to be
able to respond to local complexities and needs with permitting, licensing and regulatory
decisions. Lastly, if the State chooses to "targeY' its broadband efforts, those targets should not
be based on artificial distinctions of "urban versus rural" or "small versus large", but rather on
key consideration of whether in a specific location there is access to globally competitive
infrastructure in terms of broadband access, choice, speed, redundancy, safety and cost.
Requested Action:
Continue to support policy and funding for expansion and universal
access to broadband in the State of lowa.
Housinq
Smart Growth Workforce Housinq Grant Proqram
Creation of the Smart Growth Workforce Housing grant program under the discretionary
policy of the lowa Finance Authority provides greater opportunity for the City of Dubuque and
its partners to stabilize the community and will prioritize environmentally-sustainable
development and will promote economic development. This grant program was established in
the 2010 legislative session. The program however, lacks funding.
Definition
Smart Growth practices are settlement patterns that avert urban sprawl by encouraging more
compact development, greater transit use, and enhanced environmental protection. Workforce
housing is normally defined as housing affordable to households earning between 80 percent
and 120 percent area median income (AMI). Affordable, in the housing industry, means a
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household pays no more than 30 percent of its annual income on housing. Smart Growth
Workforce housing is the combination of these concepts—the development of sustainable,
transit-oriented housing that is affordable for our workforce.
What can our workforce households afford to pay for housing? "The National Housing Act of
1937" created the public housing program... [wherein] a tenanYs income could not exceed five
to six times the rent; and by 1940 income limits gave way to the maximum rent standard in
which rent could not exceed 20 percent of income— in practice, the same as the predecessor
income limit standard. Over the decades, that percentage has risen, so that by 1981 the
threshold was set at 30 percent of income. Households that spend over 30 percent of income
on housing are considered cost burdened. Why the increase? Was it truly deemed a more
appropriate benchmark? Or was it simply in response to an increase in housing costs and the
governmenYs inability to subsidize housing for an ever-growing number of struggling
households?
Over the past decade, rising housing costs have outpaced the .____
average salary across the United States— in some areas by two- to =_��
five-fold. Many workers in urban areas have dealt with this �"` ,�� � +i:'��
discrepancy by living far from their downtown jobs or by living in ,, _-
housing they can't afford. Unfortunately, the former solution is offset �, � � '_ ' i ��� �
by an increase in transportation costs. And what is the price we pay � I!l1�"��,um y,�, � ���
for the latter solution? "Families who pay more than 30 percent of =��:'� � , �:
their income for housing are considered cost burdened and may '` "
have difficulty affording necessities such as food, clothing, transportation and medical care." In
fact, a full 37% of homeowners and 50% of renters today are cost burdened.
Fortunately, housing costs in smaller urban and rural areas are often within closer reach for
workforce households. However, in areas where vacancy rates are low— calling for the
production of new units—development of quality housing is financially impossible, as
operational income on the properties is not enough to cover interest payments on the project
mortgage. Low local rent levels, although beneficial for tenants, preclude developers
from creating new units, despite a community's housing shortage. For this reason, many
developers have turned to the LIHTC program to make their projects�nancially feasible,
whether or not this fulfills the community's particular housing demand.
Meanwhile, the recent economic downturn and housing market woes have combined to create a
new class of workers, forced into the rental market because they do not qualify for a mortgage.
Displaced workers with homes that won't sell, families who've had their homes foreclosed,
young professionals with student loans, and households that might otherwise be able to afford
mortgage payments if only they could come up with the higher requisite down payment
demanded in a tight lending climate —all of these are moving into the rental market. This
creates a rather sudden increase in the demand for rental residential units for households that
are neither wealthy, nor are they eligible for low-income housing.
The creation of affordable housing options for our workforce allows communities to attract and
retain quality employers. If the only housing that developers can afford to produce is intended
for low-income or wealthy households, we should not be surprised to see such a disparity in our
communities' income levels. To have a healthy mix of incomes, we must have housing options
available for all income levels.
Requested Action:
Fund the lowa Finance Authority Smart Growth Workforce Housing grant
program.
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Workforce Housinq Tax Credits
The "sun-setting" of the lowa Economic Development Authority's Enterprise Zone program in
2014 resulted in the creation of two new tax credit opportunities under the High Quality Jobs
Program; one for economic development and the second for workforce housing. The City of
Dubuque supported this policy decision in the 2014 legislative session however some
refinement of the workforce housing tax credit program will be necessary in the 2018 legislative
session in order to meet the demand identified in the State's workforce housing study completed
in 2012. The legislative changes in 2014 expand access to the worthwhile housing program, but
the cap is unnecessarily limiting.
Requested Action:
The City supports moving the workforce housing tax credits out of the
aggregate lowa Economic Development Authority's Economic
Development Tax Credit Cap. The workforce housing program is a housing
program and not a direct economic development incentive and should not
be restricted as such.
Emerqencv Manaqement - Homeland Securitv
Flood Mitiqation Proqram
Federal Emergency Management Administration has asserted that for every one dollar
expended in disaster mitigation programs/projects, taxpayers save four dollars in recovery
costs. The newly established State Flood Mitigation program is designed to leverage local and
federal dollars with state financial assistance and is funded up to $600 million over the next
twenty years. This amount will most likely be insufficient in addressing the flood mitigation
infrastructure demands of lowa cities.
Requested Action:
We urge legislators to continue to appropriate funds annually to the flood
mitigation account in order to support local governments faced with high
costs of these public infrastructure flood mitigation programs in order to
protect the lives and property of lowa citizens.
Combined Emerqencv Communications and Emerqencv Operations
Center
Dubuque County has experienced eight presidential disaster declarations since 1999.
Increased frequency and impacts of disasters on the City of Dubuque has created the need for
expanded facilities. Combining emergency operations and communications will deliver services
more effectively and efficiently to citizens of Dubuque and Dubuque County.
Emergency Operations Centers have been in place throughout the state of lowa for decades.
The City of Dubuque's Emergency Operations Center is currently located at the Dubuque
Emergency Responder Training Facility. It had been previously located in the Dubuque Fire
Headquarters basement since the mid-twentieth century. EOCs were built during the Cold War
and with a focus on civil defense. Today, with more frequent and extreme weather events as
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evidenced by Dubuque's high number of Presidential Disaster Declarations, demand for a new
combined center is evident.
The Emergency Communications Center is located in the Dubuque County Law Enforcement
Center. It is located in the middle of the building and is restricted for future growth. Currently
there are 4 console positions and with the numbers of calls and the severity of some of them,
there is a need to have additional capacity for call taking and dispatching. The Center has been
remodeled several times and future expansion is limited. Federal Mandates for P25 radio
systems and the expiring life expectancy of current radio system creates the need to
update Dubuque City/County's radio system within the next two years at a cost of$10.5
million. Updating at current location still creates restrictions on growth and capabilities during
high volume times and disasters.
In order to respond to the well-being and safety of the citizens of Dubuque, and to the increased
demand for services created by more frequent disasters, and in order to replace aging and
inefficient facilities, efforts are underway to explore funding opportunities that would enable the
creation of a combined Emergency Communications and Emergency Operations Center.
The State of lowa has partnered with many larger city/county governments to assist in funding
combined emergency communications centers and emergency operations centers.
Requested Action:
Work with area legislators to explore opportunities for partnership and
funding for a combined Emergency Communications and Emergency
Operations Center.
Support increasing 911 Surcharge funding percentage to get the 911 Funds
back into the local's hands to assist local 911Service Boards with
maintaining 911 systems.
Library Services
Fullv Fundinq Enrich lowa Proqram
Enrich lowa is a state aid program for lowa's libraries. Until recently, lowa was one of eight
states without direct state aid to libraries. Current state funding is at $1 million statewide versus
the recommended $3 million for full funding. If Enrich lowa were fully funded, the Carnegie-
Stout Public Library could realize a significant increase annually in state aid.
Requested Action:
Support efforts to increase funding for the Enrich lowa program.
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Human Resources
Municipal Fire and Police Retirement Svstem of lowa
Police and firefighter pensions are funded through the Municipal Fire & Police Retirement
System of lowa (MFPRSI). Employees contribute a fixed 9.4 percent of their salary, while their
employers contribute at a variable rate, with a statutory minimum of 17 percent.
The city contribution rate is set by the nine-member MFPRSI board to meet actuarial
requirements. The board includes four members representing police and firefighters, four
members representing cities, and one private citizen — all serving four year terms.
The employer contribution rate was 17 percent from fiscal years 1997 through 2003. As a result
of market crashes after the September 11, 2001 attacks, it was gradually raised to 28.21
percent in Fiscal Year 2006 before again dropping to the statutory minimum in Fiscal Year 2010.
Since then, it increased to 19.90 percent in Fiscal Year 2011, 24.76 in Fiscal Year 2012, 26.12
percent in Fiscal Year 2013, 30.12 percent in Fiscal Year 2014, 30.41 percent in Fiscal Year
2015, 27.77 percent in Fiscal Year 2016, 25.92 percent in Fiscal year 2017 and 25.68 percent in
Fiscal Year 2018.
The problem with MFPRSI is largely about the variability of the contribution rate. Cities' IPERS
contribution rates since 1994 have never been below 5.75 percent and never been above the
current 8.93 percent— a difference of 55 percent. With MFPRSI during the same period,
however, the difference between the statutory minimum and the maximum (30.41 percent in
Fiscal Year 2015) is almost 79 percent.
Another small but contributing factor is the state's decision to phase out payments to MFPRSI.
At one time, the state contributed 3.79 percent of payroll to the system— an amount that would
be more than $9 million now. Then the contribution level became a flat $2.7 million — and iYs
dwindled since then. The state used to contribute $1.5 million a year and now they contribute
zero.
In a larger context, the public-safety-pension issues relates to local control. Cities cannot
bargain with police and firefighter unions on pensions, yet they have to fund them at state-
mandated levels.
Requested Action:
The State of lowa shall fund their obligated percentage for their share
(3.79%). Change legislation to lift the cap for the employee contribution
and consider reducing enhanced benefits for new employees coming into
the system.
411 Subroqation
Currently in Chapter 411, cities are not allowed to seek reimbursement from Third Parties for
costs incurred for Police and Fire injury and illness claims. As such, a Police or Fire employee
may collect against the City for an injury or illness claim and collect a second time for the same
incident against a Third Party. If the employee is successful in getting payment from the Third
Party, the City is currently not able to obtain reimbursement (subrogate) from the Third Party
payment.
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Requested Action:
Amend Chapter 411 to allow cities to seek reimbursement from third
parties for costs incurred for Police and Fire injury and illness claims.
Seasonal Emplovees
Currently, temporary employees that accept a job that starts on a specific date and ends on a
specific date are eligible to collect unemployment. For example, temporary employees hired for
three or four months to mow lawns during the summer are allowed at the end of the summer to
collect unemployment even though they know the job is temporary when hired. This puts a
costly burden on the employer.
Requested Action:
Amend the unemployment law so that temporary employees are not
allowed to collect unemployment.
Continuation of Group Insurance
lowa Code Section 509A.13 states:
"If a governing body, a County Board of Supervisors, or a City Council has procured for its
employees accident, health, or hospitalization insurance, or a medical service plan, or has
contracted with a Health Maintenance Organization authorized to do business in the state, the
governing body, County Board of Supervisors or City Council shall allow its employees who
retired before obtaining sixty-five years of age to continue participation in the group plan or
under the group contract at the employee's own expense until the employee obtains sixty-five
years of age."
The Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) has issued an Accounting Standard
Statement 45, related to other post employment benefits. This statement requires public
employers sponsoring and subsidizing retiree health care benefit plans to recognize the cost of
such benefits on an accrual basis. This post employment benefit is provided in the form of an
implicit rate subsidy where pre-age 65 retirees receive health insurance coverage by paying a
combined retiree/active rate for the self-insured medical and prescription drug plan. This
creates a liability that must be reflected on the year-end financial statements. We are not
required to fund this obligation; however, the total obligation appears in our Comprehensive
Annual Financial Report.
Requested Action:
Repeal lowa Code 509A.13, Continuation of Group Insurance.
lowa Code Chanqes
Authoritv to Petition for Title to Abandoned Lots
A gap has been identified in lowa Code, Chapter 657A; while cities can petition for title to
abandoned residential, commercial, and industrial properties with buildings, cities have no
20
authority under 657A.10A to petition for title to abandoned lots. Abandoned lots can be time
consuming and expensive for cities to maintain.
Requested Action:
Include abandoned lots in lowa Code, Chapter 657A and allow cities to
petition for title to abandoned lots as well as abandoned residential,
commercial and industrial properties with buildings.
Underaqe and Binqe Drinkinq
Current legislation provides for a penalty to be placed upon the establishment that serves
minors. However, only a simple misdemeanor penalty is placed upon the underage person
attempting to purchase alcoholic beverages. This does not discourage this problem, which is
particularly prevalent in college-age students. In an effort to combat underage consumption and
"Binge Drinking" by our college age population, we would ask legislative consideration to
increase the simple misdemeanor penalty found in lowa Code Chapter 321.216 and 123.50 to a
higher penalty.
Requested Action:
Pass legislation to increase the simple misdemeanor penalty found in lowa
Code Chapter 321.216 and 123.50 to a higher penalty.
Eliminate "Good Moral Character" lanquaqe from lowa Code
One of the criteria for the issuance of a State of lowa liquor license is determined by "Person of
Good Moral Character" as defined in State of lowa Code 123.3 (26)(d). The State takes into
consideration the local municipality's interpretation of "Person of Good Moral Character" prior to
issuing a liquor license.
Requested Action:
Urge legislators to eliminate "good moral character" language and replace
it with objective standards.
Adult Entertainment
The City supports efforts by city attorneys to create legislation that would allow the city to
regulate adult entertainment. Draft legislation would provide that cities and counties would
regulate establishments that offer, allow or permit nude or semi-nude dancing.
Requested Action:
Support legislation drafted by city attorneys of lowa giving the City
authority to regulate adult entertainment establishments.
Fantasv Gaminq
Gaming revenues in the state of lowa continue to experience negative impacts as a result of
Fantasy Gaming. Fantasy Gaming could yield increased state and local revenues if licensed
through lowa gaming facilities and authorized in the lowa Code section 99F.
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Requested Action:
Support regulation of Fantasy Gaming which could yield increased state
and local revenues if licensed through lowa gaming facilities and
authorized in the lowa Code section 99F.
Planninq & Zoninq
Expand Cities' Extraterritorial Jurisdiction
Cities have extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) for up to two miles from their corporate limits for
subdivision review and approval only if the County has zoning for the rural areas. Extending the
cities' ETJ to include review and approval of zoning changes would facilitate planned and
managed growth. Legislation should provide incentives for governments to voluntarily plan
together and identify recommended land use impact to be considered during the planning
process. The League supports legislation that expands land management practices such as
ETJ of cities to include review and approval of zoning changes.
Requested Action:
Support legislation enabling cooperative planning and effective land
management practices.
New State Law: Pavdav Lenders
Payday loans are defined as small, short-term, unsecured loans, and are sometimes referred to
as cash advances. Payday loans generally require that the consumer have a previous payroll
and employment record, generally charge a much higher interest rate than a standard bank
loan, and carry a substantial risk to the lender.
Payday loans are packaged as short-term loans due on a borrower's next payday, but in reality,
borrowers are indebted far longer and pay far more than advertised. The average loan requires
one-third of a borrower's biweekly paycheck, exceeding what most can afford without having to
borrow again. Opponents of payday lenders recommend that cities and states regulate the
industry by capping interest rates, requiring credit checks for patrons and by implementing
zoning regulations.
Payday lending is legal in the state of lowa according to lowa Code Ann. & 533D et seq. Loan
terms are as follows: the maximum loan amount is $500 and the maximum term is 31 days. A
lender is allowed to charge finance charges and fees up to $15 for a loan of$0-$100 as well as
$10 more on every$100 borrowed thereafter. Finance charge equals $16.67 for every$100
borrowed for 14 days. APR equals 433%for every $100 borrowed for a 14 days.
In lowa, many cities have adopted separation requirements for the location of payday lenders;
however, zoning to separate payday lenders has little effect on existing businesses or on
consumers using an existing business or an on-line resource. lowa communities cannot
regulate interest rates or prohibit payday lenders.
Since 2011, Pew Charitable Trust has conducted extensive research on payday, auto title, and
similar loans, and found that these products suffer from unaffordable payments, deceptive
22
business practices, and excessive prices. The Pew Charitable Trust has these five policy
recommendations to minimize harm to consumers and make small-dollar loans more affordable:
1. Limit payments to an affordable percentage of a borrower's income. Monthly
payments above 5% of monthly pretax income are unaffordable for most borrowers.
Loans requiring more should be prohibited unless rigorous underwriting shows that the
borrower can pay the loan while meeting other financial obligations.
2. Spread costs evenly over the life of the loan. Front-loading of fees and interest
should be prohibited. Any fees should be paid evenly over the life of the loan, and loans
should have substantially equal payments that amortize smoothly to a zero balance.
3. Guard against harmful repayment or collections practices. Policymakers should
prevent or limit the use of postdated checks and automatic withdrawals from borrowers'
bank accounts. They should also make it easier to cancel automatic electronic
withdrawals and protect against excessively long loan terms.
4. Require concise disclosures of periodic and total costs. Loan offers should clearly
disclose, with equal weighting: the periodic payment schedule, the total repayment
amount, the total finance charge, and the effective annual percentage rate (APR)
inclusive of all fees.
5. Continue to set maximum allowable charges. Almost every state sets maximum
allowable rates on some small-dollar loans because these markets serving those with
poor credit histories are not price competitive. Policymakers may limit rates to 36% or
less if they do not want payday lenders to operate, or somewhat higher if they do.
Requested Action:
Pass legislation to implement the policy recommendations listed above for
payday lenders.
Historic Preservation
Restore the Historic Site Preservation Grant Proqram (HSPG)
The State of lowa needs to restore funding to the Historic Site Preservation Grant Program
(HSPG). This program was the only "brick & mortar" fund to encourage cultural growth and
development throughout the state of lowa. The Historic Site Preservation Grant provided funds
to acquire, repair, rehabilitate, and develop historic sites that preserve, interpret, or promote
lowa's cultural heritage. Projects funded by this program had to promote an understanding of
the record of human experience within lowa.
All HSPG projects were limited to work on "vertical infrastructure,"which is defined in lowa Code
Chapter 8.57 as "land acquisition for construction, major rehabilitation of buildings, all
appurtenant structures, utilities, and site developments."
The maximum allowable grant request was $100,000. The minimum allowable grant request
was $40,000. Projects required dollar-for-dollar cash match.
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Requested Action:
Restore State funding for the Historic Site Preservation Grant Program
(HSPG).
Propertv Owners on Historic Preservation Commissions
Section 303.34 of the lowa Code requires that "At least one resident of each designated area of
historical significance shall be appointed to the commission." This requirement is problematic
for the City of Dubuque's Old Main Historic District, which is primarily commercial. It would be
beneficial for the City in the recruitment and retention of commissioners to be able to appoint
property owners to represent historic districts. Furthermore, since historic preservation
regulations apply to the rehabilitation, renovation and restoration of property, allowing property
owners to serve on the commission would be appropriate.
Furthermore, some lowa cities are experiencing burgeoning commissions as historic districts
are designated and representatives of each district are appointed. To avoid "over-populating" a
commission, allowing a majorityof the districts to be represented on a historic preservation
commission would be appropriate.
Requested Action:
Enact legislation allowing property owners to represent a majority of the
historic districts on the Historic Preservation Commission.
Appeal of Actions bv Historic Preservation Commission
Section 303.34 of the lowa Code states that an aggrieved party may appeal the action of a
historic preservation commission to the City Council, and then to district court. The City
Council, like the court, has to consider whether the commission exercised its powers and
followed the guidelines established by law and ordinance, and whether the commission's action
was "patently arbitrary and capricious." This process places the City Council in the difficult and
uncomfortable position of interpreting technical guidelines and determining their appointees
"arbitrary and capricious." The City Council would support an alternative process.
Also, there is no procedure specified in Section 303.34 for appeals to district court. The
procedure for appeals should be spelled out in that section.
Requested Action:
Consider legislation providing an alternative appeals process regarding an
action of the historic preservation commission. Also, clarify the procedure
for appeals to the district court.
Park and Recreation
Parks to People Initiative
The lowa Parks Foundation has been working tirelessly to create economic and recreational
facilities opportunities to grow all regions across the State of lowa. The Jones, Jackson and
Dubuque county region was selected for the lowa Parks Foundation's pilot project. The pilot
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project - Parks to People- aims to better connect state, county and city regional park systems to
local communities. The initiative will also beautify and improve state, county and city parks to
ensure lowa will become a premier parks region in the Midwest. Parks to People is also a
quality of life program for the citizens of the State of lowa and an economic development and
tourism enhancement initiative with a focus on completion by the one hundredth anniversary of
the lowa parks system in 2020.
As a part of the first pilot region (Dubuque, Jones and Jackson counties), parks in the region
received $1.9 million in state appropriation and has been assisting in raising an additional 5:1
match which will include financial contributions and volunteer donations of time, talent and
resources. Currently the region which is now called Grant Wood Loop has projects totaling
over $25 million to build upon the state's $1.9 million appropriation. Numerous projects across
the three counties have been completed and others are in various stages of completion to meet
the 2018.
Requested Action:
The City of Dubuque supports the regional Parks to People efforts and
promote the goals of regional collaboration: economic development,
quality of life, wellness, education, arts and culture and outdoor recreation.
In addition, the City of Dubuque, as a regional partner, serve on the
steering committee and advocate for a dedicated fund of$2 million dollars
be established for Parks to People at the State Department of Natural
Resources. The matching capability by the Grant Wood Loop shows this to
be a strong public-private partnership with state resources being leveraged
far beyond the original 5:1 match.
Increased/Stable Fundinq and Staffinq for Mines of Spain State
Recreation Area
The ability of 1,400 acre Mines of Spain State Recreation Area near Dubuque to remain a focal
point for environmental and cultural educational programs and interpretive activities for the tri-
state area of lowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin is seriously threatened by tenuous State funding.
Loca/Response to State Needs
The Mines of Spain is a regional destination where visitors and residents can reconnect with the
natural, cultural and ecological aspects of the park through interactive and comprehensive
outdoor and indoor learning opportunities.
The Mines of Spain and the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center currently serves over 250,000
visitors annually and provides hundreds of programs for school aged children, college students,
youth groups and families.
When more space was needed at the Interpretive Center, the Friends of the Mines of Spain
(FOMOS) planned and coordinated an expansion that updated and more than doubled the
original space for educational purposes, raising $1.8 million in private, local, state and federal
funds.
The award-winning LEED-certified Interpretive Center nowwelcomes visitors to one of the
region's best-conserved natural and cultural resources, where people can explore the history
and natural riches of the park.
25
Working with the IDNR, the City of Dubuque, the FOMOS, private donors and the lowa Natural
Heritage Foundation have raised over $1.98 million to acquire and develop a 52-acre addition
adjacent to the Interpretive Center.
A Unique State Park with National Park Credentials
The Mines of Spain State Recreation Area includes woodlands, prairie, and blufflands that
overlook the Mississippi River along a 3-mile shoreline. This state park is a National Historic
Landmark and a state preserve. Trails connect visitors to a farm site, forests, prairies,
archeological sites, and wetlands.
It also boasts some of the most diverse ecological habitats ranging from blufflands that overlook
the river to tall grass prairies, forested woodlands and wetland.
This National Historic Landmark also contains thousands of years of human history dating from
the early Mississippian period through the early 20�h century. Mounds, village sites, rock
shelters, trading post sites, and campsites dot the landscape. The Mines of Spain Recreation
Area was designated in 2005 as a Silos and Smokestacks National Heritage Area Site.
State Support for Investment and Operation
The IDNR, the City, and the Friends group have an excellent track record as partners. This
partnership success can continue with the increased and stable funding for the operation,
maintenance, and staffing of the Mines of Spain. Success, we believe, will be reached with
asset management funding from secure State funding sources to enable us to fully use the
expanded Interpretive Center and park area. With stable State funding, Park staff can maintain
the Mines of Spain as the local, regional, state and national treasure it is and should remain.
The outcome is a place for expanded education, increased experiences for the visitor and
heritage tourism to attract more visitors to the state. Without this increased/stable funding the
ability to use and appreciate these newly built and acquired facilities/land are seriously
threatened; past investments are at risk for being wasted.
Requested Action:
Increased state supported funding for the physical assets in the parks as
well as park staffing for the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area
especially because there are active local partners in the Friends of Mines of
Spain and the City.
Ability for the lowa Department of Natural Resources to raise fees as
appropriate for recreational pursuits such as camping and licensing.
Increased fundinq of REAP (Resource Enhancement and Protection)
REAP stands for Resource Enhancement and Protection. It is a program in the State of lowa
that invests in, as its name implies, the enhancement and protection of the state's natural and
cultural resources.
REAP is funded from the state's Environment First Fund (lowa � f `��*'
gaming receipts) and from the sale of the natural resource . ,� - ; ' �s' �t '
license plate. The state le gislature sets the amount of REAP "r ' ��4� ' =f�
�� :,,
'���� i `��t�,r � <� �
funding every year. Interest from the REAP account and � ,, ,
�� � s,�
receipts from the sale of natural resource license plates add " "' � `� y
about $394,000 to this appropriation. "` �� '�"' '
F ,fY�^LL i.v
In the last two years, REAP has been appropriated $12 million _ ':`�"'`�� '
26
antl $16 mllliory comparetl �o �M1e31-yearaveage o!$11 2 million.
REAP M1as been usetl ez�ensivety In �ubuque lor lantl acquisi�ion antl �alls. MOA
en�lyi�was usetl �o acquire an atljolning pmper�y�o �M1e Mines olSpaln S�a�e
Recrea�ion Area antl edension o(�M1e Nor�M1weAAr�erialTallwM1icM1 tllretlly mnnetls�o
�M1e Heri�age Trail as well as envimnmen�al reAoa�ion o! Eagle Poln� Park. Bo�M1 benelA
�ourism antl conneding people �o �M1e o Wtloorswi�M1 atlive rewea�ion.
fteausstetlAction:
Requez[[M1a[[M1e lowa Legizla[ure woA [o increaze REHP ro full funding of
$20 million.
Natural Resources antl Outtloor Recreation Tmst Funtl
The lowa Legisawre M1as a great opponuniry m twtill its pmmise m lowans m pmtect lowa's
antl antl wa�er by passng a measure �M1a�Nntls�M1e Na W ral Resources antl 0 Wtloor Recrea�ion
TruA Pontl, also alletl lowa's Wa�er antl Lantl Legary.
In2010, o er60% ollowa vo�erssuppotletl crea�ion ol�M1e Pontl �o pmvitlereliable antl
tletlia�etl Nntling (or�M1e pm�etlion o(wa�erquali�y, c rva�ion o(agriculWralsoilsantl
Impmvemen� o(naWalareassucM1 aslisM1 antl wiltlli(e M1abi�at However, n ney willgoln�oi�
ss�M1e LeglslaWre alses�M1e sales�axl(raisetl,�M1e lvA�M1reaeigM1�M1so(�M1e �azwillgo
�owartl �M1e Tru9 Pondl�wasrepotletl �M1a��M1iswoultl genera�e aboW $15➢ mllfion a year. Once
Nntletl, �M1e TruA Pontl guaran�ees�M1a� money In �M1e TruA be allo��etl assM1own In �M1e grapM1.
REAP
$oil8 WaterLonservation
�I Conserva�lon PatlnersNps
HaUpal Parks 8 Pres - � 1
� ��W 'B�SF@EP�Obt[iOn
Td15 L k R 1 LOO
Our moA pmtludive soil Is being IOA a�an alarming a�e,�M1rea�ing �M1e economic engine �M1a� Is
a's lamily la�ms Pontling �M1e TmA Pontl will pmvltle pm�etlion ol�M1ese �esowces lo�NW�e
g nea�ionsby:
Pmvltling signAian�Nntling lor InveAmen�sln ��II �nserva�ion p�aCicesantl
�ecM1nology�M1a� an Impmve yieltls antl pmfils on lowa (arms.
• Fo9eringantlleveagingpatlnersM1lpsbe�weenagriculWre,�M1enoo-pmli�antlpriva�e
setlorsantl govemmen� lor Implemen�a�ion olwa�er quali�y antl soil mnserva�ion
pradices
2]
. Allocating 33% of the funding to voluntary soil and water conservation and local
conservation partnerships.
The Trust Fund will also allow for investment in natural approaches to flood prevention that can
improve water quality while protecting our farms, cities and neighborhoods from future flooding.
Outdoor recreation provides real economic benefits to lowa's communities, particularly rural
ones by contributing millions in local and state tax revenues, providing jobs and generating
billions of dollars in lowa's economy.
. Hunting, fishing and wildlife watching generate $1.54 billion per year in lowa. This
includes $974 million in local retail sales, creating and supporting more than 17,800jobs.
. Hunters alone support over 7,000 jobs in lowa and spend over$449 million annually on
their sport, which in turn generates over $47.8 million in state tax revenue.
. Visits to state parks, county parks, lakes and trails are estimated at 50 million visits per
year, representing $2.63 billion in spending levels.
. River recreation supports more than 6,350 jobs with $824 million in sales and $139
million of personal income.
Recreational amenities and quality of life opportunities are critical to recruiting and retaining a
highly educated and motivated workforce.
Repuested Action:
Pass legislation to increase the state sales tax from 6 percent to 6 and 3/8
percent with the 3/8 of one percent to be deposited in the Natural Resources
and Outdoor Recreation Trust Fund that the voters of lowa already supported
with a significant majority.
Arts and Culture
Great livable communities in lowa must support culture, arts, history, and focused community
development. Investment in cultural programs improves the quality of life in lowa and helps to
attract and retain a vibrant workforce which assists in developing and promoting lowa's
economic vitality. Nationally, the nonprofit arts and cultural segment alone produces $135
billion dollars in economic impact in the United States.
41a�� � � _--�
According to the National Assembly of Arts Agencies, lowa ranks 40�n I`� � � �- � ��—�
of all states in per capita spending of 43 cents for arts and culture. � r ;� ; � �� �
The National average is 97 cents. Neighboring states are ranked '�
higher than lowa: Minnesota 1� ($6.36); Missouri 20�h (80 cents); - �� � '��
Nebraska 2nd (78 cents); Illinois 21 st (79 cents). These total FY2014 " ��
appropriations include line-item funds designated by the legislature to � '� `"� ,M =���
pass through the state arts agency to other entities. , "`�>i�f• °'
;,,,
, .d�
In 2011, Dubuque participated in the most comprehensive economic �,,`'`��'� '
impact study of the nonprofit arts and culture industry ever conducted
in the United States, Arts & Economic Prosperity IV. It was conducted by Americans for the
Arts, the nation's leading nonprofit organization for advancing the arts and arts education. The
City of Dubuque was one of 182 study regions that participated in the study.
In 2012, results showed that the nonprofit arts and culture industry in Dubuque generates $47.2
million in annual economic activity, supporting 1,530 full-time equivalent jobs and generating $5
28
million in local and state government revenues and $36.7 million in household income to local
residents.
The arts mean business. Leaders who care about the community and economic development
can feel good about investing in the arts. What other industry can boast the quality of life
benefits and the economic benefits the way the arts can?
The arts have a vital role in stimulating and sustaining economic development. Contrary to
popular belief, the arts are a bustling industry that supports a plethora of diverse jobs, generates
significant revenues for local businesses, contributes to federal, state and local governments
and provides quality of life that positions communities to compete in our 21�' century creative
economy.
The Dubuque City Council has been a strong advocate for a strong advocate for a strong arts
presence, making arts and culture a top priority for the last two years in a row.
In 2004, the Council approved an Arts and Cultural Affairs Advisory Committee, $35,000 in
annual project grants and established a Downtown Cultural Corridor. A$200,000 annual
operating and special project support funding was established in 2005, and an additional
$10,000 was added to that annually beginning in 2011. Another $300,000 in capital funds was
allocated for the Art on the River public art program for ten years. Dubuque created a part time
staff position of Arts and Cultural Affairs Coordinator in FY2009 with partial funding from lowa
Community Cultural Grants in FY 2009, 2010 and 2011. The position is now fully funded by the
City. The coordinator works closely with the Commission to promote and increase awareness
and market the arts and activities and allocate budgeted funding for the arts and cultural
activities. The position has enabled the Commission to develop goals and priorities, to enhance
the public art program by creating standards of excellence using regional, state and national
models and refining the grant process to ensure the taxpayer's money is used in the best
possible manner. The recent designation of the Historic Millwork District plan brings integrated
strategies that include design guidelines, historic preservation, community gardens, central
gathering spaces, arts venues and artistic streetscapes. The City has recognized the need for
master arts planning which would include a public art plan in order to advance its' reputation as
a regional arts hub.
The City of Dubuque engaged the consulting firm Lord Cultural Resources to assist in the
creation of an Arts and Culture Master Plan. According to the 2012 Arts & Economic Prosperity
IV national economic impact study, Dubuque's nonprofit arts and culture industry generates
$47.2 million in annual economic activity, supporting 1,530 full-time equivalent jobs, and
generating $5 million in local and state government revenues and $36.7 million in household
income to local residents. This document was developed as a guide for the City organization to
strategically direct resources and ensure that arts and culture remain an integral part of our
community in the future. The goal of the plan is to reflect the community's desire to utilize arts
and culture to enhance our sense of community; contribute to our economic vitality; create and
support an environment where art and culture thrive; and enrich the Dubuque community
culturally, aesthetically, educationally and economically. The Plan was adopted in October of
2016 by the Dubuque City Council.
The City of Dubuque has provided $3 million dollars in funding for the arts since the
establishment of the City's Arts and Cultural Affairs Advisory Commission in 2004. The
Commission has managed the City's investment, allocated among three programs: $1.6 million
has been awarded through the Operating Support Grant Program; $345,000 has been awarded
through the Special Projects Grant Program that has leveraged a total of$814,192 in arts
projects in our community, and; $205,000 has funded the Art on the River annual temporary
public art exhibit at the Port of Dubuque.
29
We are pleased to see that funding programs in the last budgeting year were restored
somewhat from previously years. City funding alone is insufficient for the arts to flourish in
Dubuque. The support of grant programs through the Department of Cultural Affairs is vital to
the organizations and artists in Dubuque. The City currently has no funding programs for
individual artists, so the lowa Arts Council Project Grants help our local artists tremendously.
Transforming the former ICCG Grant into the Jobs Creation Grants will assist many small
organizations in our City to expand their capacity. On September 23, 2013, lowa Arts Council
staff presented a grant writing workshop in Dubuque which was highly attended, especially by
younger art leaders in the community. Interaction with and support of a knowledgeable staff is
integral to our state's arts and cultural initiatives.
Requested Action:
Regard arts as an lowa industry that is an economically sound investment
that attracts audiences, spurs business development, supports jobs,
generates state and local government revenue and is the cornerstone of
tourism. Support programs in the Department of Cultural Affairs (lowa Arts
Council, State Historical Society of lowa) to continue to recognize and
promote lowa's cultural heritage as key in recovery and strengthening of all
lowa communities, and increasing economic development. State funding of
these programs leverages local support for arts and cultural organizations,
historical organizations, educational programs, rehabilitation of historic
buildings, and projects involving a variety of historic resources.
Provide appropriate staff support within the Department of Cultural Affairs
to provide previous levels of services to communities and citizens of lowa
through all programs and departments.
Raise the ranking of lowa from 40�'' place in per capital spending for the
arts and culture as reported by the National Assembly of Arts Agencies,
lowa ranks 40�'' of all states in per capita spending of$.43 for arts and
culture.
Sustainabilitv
Enerqv Efficiencv & Renewable/Alternative Enerqv
Recently, the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy ranked lowa 15'h (down from
12'h) in the nation for its efforts to promote energy efficiency. lowa scored highly in the category
of building energy codes as one of only 17 states with a statewide code that meets or exceeds
the latest International Energy Conservation Code standards for both residential and
commercial buildings. Businesses, residents and local governments have taken advantage of
existing incentive programs, but still have much work to do in order to make their new and
existing buildings more energy efficient. As energy efficiency is achieved, private and public
organizations as well as individuals have begun to explore a variety of alternative and
renewable energy options to increase their energy independence, reduce dependence on coal
and oil, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve the competitiveness of local business and
improve public health.
30
In 2016, the lowa Economic Development Authority and lowa Department of Transportation
initiated a statewide process to develop the lowa Energy Plan. The plan, which the City of
Dubuque has been engaged in developing, focuses on energy as an economic development
opportunity, lowa's energy resources, energy efficiency and conservation, and transportation
and infrastructure.
Requested Action:
The City strongly advocates for implementation of the recommendations
that will be included in the lowa Energy Plan, specifically as they relate to
energy efficiency and opportunities to support the development of
renewable energy resources in the state.
With the discontinuation of the Office of Energy Independence and its
programs, it is critical for all state agencies (including, but not limited to,
the lowa Economic Development Authority, lowa Utility Board, Department
of Natural Resources and Department of Administrative Services) to
develop programming, funding and regulatory flexibility to support and
promote the development of additional energy efficiency efforts and the
adoption of renewable and alternative energy sources. Successful energy
efficiency incentive programs should be continued and lowa should
explore opportunities to remain competitive with other states in offering
incentives for the installation and utilization of renewable and alternative
energy. Specifically, the state should consider a progressive energy policy
that works with local governments and utilities to 1) remove barriers to
widespread decentralized renewable energy use, 2) stabilize renewable
energy incentives, and 3) support net metering and other opportunities to
make renewable energy more cost-effective and accessible.
The City supports state legislation to permit Property Assessed Clean
Energy, or PACE, in lowa. PACE financing offers an innovative way for
property owners to pay for energy efficiency upgrades with strong ROIs
that create jobs for lowans. PACE programs can now be used in over 30
states, with over $30 million provided to improve buildings in the last 12
months according to the US Green Building Council. Long-term financing
linked to properties incent investment in energy-efficiency and renewable
energy projects with long-term ROIs, and promote equitable sharing of
costs and savings among current and future owners and tenants.
Additionally, the City supports the lowa Clean Cities Coalition and is
interested in partnering with the State in any way possible to advance the
development of alternative fuel fleets and the infrastructure needed to
make those fleets possible in the public and private sector.
31
Public Health
Mental Health
The 2017 lowa Acts, Chapter 109, Section 17 directed the Department of Human
Services (Department) to convene a stakeholder workgroup to: "...make
recommendations relating to the delivery of, access to, and coordination and continuity
of inental health, disability, and substance abuse disorder needs, particularly for
individuals with complex mental health, disability, and substance use disorder needs."
The Complex Service Needs Workgroup recommends expanding and improving lowa's
mental health and substance use disorder services array to fill gaps for individuals with
the most complex service needs by developing and implementing in strategic locations
throughout lowa.
City of Dubuque Public Health and Safety officials recognize the positive aspects of the
recommendations that align with City Council priorities. The recommendations are very
comprehensive and address the continuum of care for behavioral and mental health
issues, from mild to serious diagnoses. The recommendations also provide the
opportunity for the regions to collaborate certain types of facilities and treatments. The
recommendations address law enforcement issues and provides tools for law-
enforcement and other entities working in community health.
Requested Action:
Support the recommendations from the report of the Complex Service
Needs Workgroup to expand and improve lowa's mental health and
substance use disorder services array to fill gaps for individuals with the
most complex service needs by developing and implementing the following
facilities and services in strategic locations throughout lowa and supports
the following legislative action:
• Require mental health and disability services (MHDS) regions to establish,
implement, and maintain the following services as required core
services1 in partnership with managed care organizations (MCOs) in
strategic locations throughout lowa;
• Direct the Department to establish a single set of provider qualifications
and access standards that are used for Chapter 24 accreditation, lowa
Medicaid Enterprise for Medicaid enrollment, MHDS Region standards,
and MCO utilization review standards
• Direct the Department to establish access standards that allow and
encourage multiple MHDS Regions to strategically locate and share
intensive, specialized services among and between MHDS Regions to
best serve lowans in the most efficient manner possible
• Eliminate the lowa code that limits the number of sub-acute care facility
beds
The City also supports the Workgroup's recommendation that the Department of
Human Services and Public Health (Departments) review the interim report with
the Courts and seek their agreement and support.
32
Opioid Epidemic
Opioid use and overdose deaths represent a public health crisis requiring innovating,
evidence-based responses with community involvement. Opioid overdose mortality
represents a major and preventable threat to public health. Deaths from unintentional
drug poisoning have reached crisis levels in the United States and in lowa. Last year in
Dubuque had eleven opioid-related overdose deaths, and three have occurred already
this year. Other communities in lowa are also experiencing the devastating effects of
illicit opioids.
A growing body of evidence and experience supports innovating community-level
approaches to preventing opioid overdose deaths in the broader context of efforts to
reduce the risk of overdose through primary prevention of opioid misuse. Numerous
pilot programs and evaluations have demonstrated the feasibility and viability of
providing opioid education to the community, to health care providers, including
Nalaxone administration, use, and education on the opioid prescription monitoring
program.
The Dubuque community has been monitoring the increasing opioid crisis and we are
very concerned about the growing impact on our community. A local, community-based
opioid response team has assembled and is meeting regularly. To date, they have
educated 217 community and health professionals, along with 90 law enforcement
personnel, on Nalaxone administration and promoted community-based organizations
to educate the community on the opioid misuse problem. Much of the task force work
has become a model for the state.
Requested Action:
• Direct the Board of Medicine and Board of Pharmacy to collaborate in
requiring physician, pharmacist, and eligible prescribers' participation
in the state prescription monitoring program; to enable inter-state
exchange of prescription information; to assure provider adherence to
the CDC Guideline for Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain; and to limit
opioid prescriptions to 7-day supplies, enabling closer patient
supervision by pharmacist and physicians and reducing opportunities
for diversion;
• Maintain coverage for vulnerable populations and ensure immediate
health benefit coverage to Medicaid and insurance�ligible offenders
when released from incarceration, including coverage of naltrexone
prescriptions for addicted offenders;
Other Requested Action:
• Pass "good Samaritan" legislation protecting individuals from arrest
and prosecution for possession or use when they are saved from
overdose or for calling 911 to save others who overdose;
• Establish drug specialty courts in statute for each judicial district,
ensuring ongoing funding through standing appropriations to the
Judicial Branch and Department of Corrections;
33
• Advance responsible, evidence-based opioid prescribing and
counseling through pain management education, safe prescribing
training, and addiction training for all prescribers and dispensers
throughout medical schooling and beyond, including physicians,
nurses, physician assistants, dentists, veterinarians, and pharmacists;
Create a new public long-term treatment system for dual-diagnosis patients and long-
term aftercare for those addicted to opioids.
Communitv Health Centers
Medicaid Reimbursement for Same-Day Medical, Oral Health and Behavioral Health
Services
lowa's Community Health Centers (CHCs) provide care to more than 69,000 Medicaid patients,
which is 16% of the state's total Medicaid population. As unique primary health care providers
that conveniently offer medical, oral health and behavioral health services under one roof, CHCs
frequently see patients who have scheduled appointments for more than one type of visit on the
same day (for example, a patient will schedule a yearly medical exam and a dental cleaning on
the same day). Unfortunately, current lowa Medicaid reimbursement policy does not allow
CHCs to be reimbursed for more than one visit if they occur on the same day.
As lowa moves toward providing a patient centered medical home (PCMH) for all Medicaid
recipients, changing this reimbursement policy is instrumental in achieving the PCMH goal of
providing patients the necessary care when and where they need and want it. Allowing patients
to schedule same day appointments with more than one provider can alleviate barriers to
accessing services, such as transportation to the health center. Reimbursing for each of these
visits will ensure CHCs can cover the costs of providing care and help maintain their viability.
Allowing reimbursement for same day visits will also facilitate the implementation of an
integrated primary and behavioral health model at CHCs. This model, which is clinically
effective and cost effective, utilizes close collaboration between a CHC's medical and
behavioral health staff to provide a seamless continuum of care for patients. Visits ideally occur
to both on the same day, reducing the high failure rate of referrals to behavioral health and allow
for better coordination of inedical and behavioral health problems.
Although these issues should be resolved under managed care, there remain issues connected
to Managed Care Organization (MCO) same-day billing.
Requested Action:
Allow Medicaid reimbursement for same-day medical, oral health and
behavioral health seroices.
Ensure Access to High Quality, Affordable Health Care
With continuing issues related to the sustainability of the Health Insurance Marketplace in lowa
and the proposals to replace or improve the Affordable Care Act, any changes need to ensure
vulnerable and low-income lowans can access high quality, affordable health insurance,
including lowa's Medicaid expansion program and other safeguards to maintain our historically
low insurance rates.
34
Requested Action:
It is imperative that any changes to Medicaid rates and coverage, or
increased flexibility at the state or federal level, include adequate services,
providers, rates and other safeguards.
Recruit and Retain a Qualified Healthcare Workforce
One of the largest factors limiting a community health center's ability to provide patients quality
care is recruiting and retaining quality providers.
Requested Action:
Support and continue investment in the National Health Service Corp, and
Teaching Health Centers to assist and promote health and dental providers
to serve in rural areas, specialty areas, and community health centers.
Hotel and Food Establishment License Fees & Food Safetv
The inadequacy of food code licensing fees has resulted in a systematic degradation of lowa's
food inspection system and jeopardizes the health of lowans and our economy. Current license
fees fail to cover program costs. Since 1979, fees were increased slightly in 1997 and 2008
while program costs have risen exponentially. Some counties and municipalities subsidize as
much as 50% of their food program costs.
For more than a decade, lowa Department of Inspections and Appeals (IDIA) and some local
programs have not had the resources to meet the frequency of restaurant inspections
established by the FDA. In recent years, DIA has reduced the minimum food inspection
frequencies twice. In 2009, inspections were to occur once or twice a year depending on facility
risk. In 2011, inspections shifted to every six to 24 months depending on risk. The erosion of
lowa's food safety program is a direct result of inadequate food license fees. When the 2014
legislature failed to increase fees, DIA revised its rules extending frequencies to 36 months for
some facilities. Dubuque strives to inspect more frequently.
The public believes these assessments occur on a much more regular basis and therefore may
have a false sense of safety from foodborne disease. Inadequate and irregular license fee
increases are starving lowa's food safety system and have the potential to put the health and
lives of the consuming public at risk.
Requested Action:
Increase food licensing fees to fully fund food safety program activities in
compliance with lowa Code.
Authorize DIA to administer the food licensing fees through the lowa
Administrative Code.
Establish an automatic fee adjustment mechanism to annually increase
fees by the percentage increase in the consumer price index.
Create parity between license fees for retail food and food service
establishments. And reduce the burden on taxpayers
Notice of Violation
Currently, a notice of code violation must be sent via certified mail to a property owner if the City
performs the required mitigation of the problem and assesses the cost to the property owner.
We suggest that a notice be sent via regular mail to the property owner. OFtentimes, it is difficult
35
for people to collect or pickup certified mail, particularly if they are not home at time of delivery.
Certified also adds a significant cost ($2.87) to the mailing of each notice.
Requested Action:
lowa Code Section 364.12 (h) changed to allow mailing via regular mail.
Childhood Lead Poisoninq
Childhood lead poisoning is endemic to lowa. Of lowa children born in 2004, 97.7% were tested
at least once before the age of six years, and 3.7% of these children were lead-poisoned (in
eight counties, more than 9% of the children were lead-poisoned). At the national level, the rate
of lead poisoning among children under the age of six years is so low that it is no longer
reported. Homes built prior to 1978 are likely to contain lead-based paint, and lead-based paint
hazards are the leading cause of childhood lead poisoning. In 2009, the lowa General
Assembly passed a law requiring all children to have proof of a blood lead test prior to entering
kindergarten.
Further complicating lowan's ability to help their children, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
eliminated a $594,000.00 grant which the lowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) has
historically received annually. This resulted in a 25% reduction in funds going to local health
departments for lead poisoning surveillance activities, and, more importantly, essentially
eliminated the technical capacity of the state level especially for data compilation and analysis.
As IDPH keeps less than 5.0% of state funds allocated to the lead poisoning preventing
program, staff time will now be used for enforcement activities related to contractors and
inspectors, rather than the tracking and treatment of poisoned children and maintaining accurate
data.
Requested Action:
Appropriate adequate funds to allow the lowa Department of Public health
to continue its crucial role as a technical advisor and data manager to local
childhood lead poisoning prevention programs (CLPPP), and increase
funding levels for local CLPPP programs.
Healthv Local Foods
During the 2010 Legislative Session, the Legislature charged the Leopold Center for
Sustainable Agriculture with preparing a local food and farm plan
containing policy and funding recommendations for supporting and
- expanding local food systems and for assessing and overcoming
� �� `= obstacles necessary to increase locally grown food production. The
t,.�:a�' " � `�: Healthy Local Foods principle of Dubuque's sustainability model aims to
� � t `1
_# _;..,� �� provide benefits of wholesome food from local producers, distributors,
.; �`�' farms, gardens and hunters to all. The City and its partners engaged in
�„^„�,;ti :i _ -_� the Healthy Local Foods initiative have participated in the forming of the
', ��� Local Food & Farm Plan. In order for local institutions and consumers to
,,��,, �r� increase their purchase and consumption of local foods, barriers must
�• ' be overcome that enable more produce and meat to be produced,
processed and sold locally. Various studies have shown the value of a
strong local food system as an economic development tool.
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Requested Action:
Provide policy direction, funding and other resources to implement the
recommendations of the Local Food & Farm Plan delivered to the
Legislature in January 2011.
Partnerships
Dubuque Communitv School District
One Cent Sales Tax
The creation and sustenance of a strong workforce and vibrant economy in Dubuque and lowa,
depend upon a well-funded educational program, with state of the art facilities, and essential
educational tools.
The scheduled sunset of the one cent sales tax for lowa school districts restricts lowa school
districts' bonding ability. In addition, this sales tax is the sole source of funding for technology in
lowa schools. Sunsetting is scheduled in 2029.
Requested action:
We oppose the scheduled sunset in 2029 of the statewide one cent sales
tax for lowa schools. We support an extension of the one cent sales tax
past 2029 in order to provide 21st Century education for all lowa students.
We oppose placing a cap on the amount the districts can receive.
Resolve Formula and Transportation Inequities
The City of Dubuque enjoys a strong partnership with the Dubuque Community School
District and understand the imperative of supporting financially strong educational
institutions and programs.
While state funding for education is driven by per-pupil allocations, differences still exist
from district to district within the foundational funding formula in the amount of up to
$175 per student. And, as a large district serving both urban and rural students, the
Dubuque Community School District spends significantly more money to transport
students than other districts. These are dollars that, while necessary expenditures,
aren't available to be spent on educational programming.
Requested Action:
To ensure equity of funding, the City supports the passage of Senate File
455 during the 2018 legislative session. Once fully phased in, it would
mean over $4.4 million in new annual funding for the Dubuque Community
School District. This funding would put all lowa school districts on a level
playing field with their ability to provide programming for all students.
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Dubuque Area Convention and Visitors Bureau
Dubuque is a top tourism destination in the state of lowa and the upper Midwest region.
Dubuque hosts two million visitors annually, and it is important that the lowa Economic
Development Authority provide tools for additional growth that supports tourism and workforce
development.
The new Enhance lowa legislation provides an opportunity for the legislature to appropriate
funds that will invest in partnerships with local communities through Community Attractions and
Tourism development fund.
The Dubuque CVB also encourages an increase in the level of resources for trail development
in Northeast lowa and support funding for improved water quality.
Requested Action:
Fully fund CAT and the new Enhance lowa program.
Dubuque Countv
Mental Health Fundinq
Following the major re-design of the Mental Health and Developmental Disability Services
delivery system in lowa in 2012 (SF 2315), it is essential that adequate funding be provided to
allow counties to transition to the new funding system to avoid waiting lists for services. There
is a belief that regions have unreasonable fund balances but this does not account for the new
requirements for core services and gaps in the current system that regions are expected to fill.
While we recognize that increasing budget pressures and increasing Medicaid costs challenge
state lawmakers, it would be counter-productive to shift costs with such strategies as freezing
waiver programs that force the consumers to seek assistance at the regional level instead of the
state.
Requested Action:
Ensure that Developmental Disability services are included in core services
Provide sufficient funds for FY17 to ensure that counties and MH/DS
regions have the resources necessary to provide and manage services
Substance Abuse funding needs to be pulled out of the silo. MHDD funding
is only allowed to fund MHDD, but we are required to serve people with co-
occurring disorders.
Additional Law Enforcement Traininq in the areas of Mental Health
and Substance Abuse at the ILEA
We understand that expanded mandatory training hours of all law enforcement officers at the
lowa Law Enforcement Academy in the area of inental health issues has been increased. We
have also advocated for additional training for substance abuse issues.
Requested action:
Support additional training which benefit officers and citizens and will
assist with jail diversion programs and available services.
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Dubuque/Delaware Countv Druq Court
Dubuque County supports the mission of the Drug Court, which is a collaborative effort between
the judiciary, county attorneys, corrections, law enforcement, and Substance Abuse Services
Center to more effectively supervise and treat non-violent substance abuse addicted offenders
who might be incarcerated. The Drug Court has served residents of Dubuque and Delaware
counties. It is estimated the Drug Court saved over $200,000 by providing an alternative to
incarceration and reduces drug related crime and positively changes lives of substance
abusers, their families and our community.
Requested action:
Continue funding to the Department of Corrections Services for this
successful and essential program.
Zoninq Violation Cleanup
Counties and cities have no authority to collect costs to cleanup zoning violations in a timely and
cost effective manner. The costs are either entered as a personal judgment against the
defendant or assessed against the property where the violation occurred or both. Counties and
cities need to be able to use the same process as allowed in lowa Code Chapter 331.384
Abatement of Public Health and Safety Hazards-Special Assessments and 364.12
Responsibility for Public Places. In those code sections, counties and cities are allowed to
"perform the required action and assess the costs against the property for collection in the same
manner as a property tax."
Requested Action:
Amend the lowa Code to allow this remedy for cleanup of zoning violations
in both counties and cities.
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