2022 Annual Legislative Dinner Meeting DocumentsCity of Dubuque
City Council Meeting
Consent Items # 012.
Copyrighted
December 5, 2022
ITEM TITLE: 2022 Annual Legislative Dinner Meeting Documents
SUMMARY: City Manager transmitting documents from the 2022 Annual Legislative
Dinner.
SUGGESTED Suggested Disposition: Receive and File
DISPOSITION:
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type
Documentation Supporting Documentation
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I
! 22ND ANNUAL LEGISLATIVE DINNER MEETING !
NOVEMBER 30, 2022
GRAND RIVER CENTER, RIVER ROOM
1. Welcome/Introductions — Mayor Brad Cavanagh 6:00 p.m.
2. Overview of the City's Legislative Issues 6:15 - 6:25 p.m.
for the 2023 Legislative Session
• Mike Van Milligen, City Manager
3. Comments from Dubuque County 6:25 - 6:35 p.m.
Board of Supervisors
• Harley Pothoff, Chairman
4. Comments from Dubuque Community 6:35 — 6:45 p.m.
School District
• Amy Hawkins, Superintendent
5. Comments from Holy Family Catholic School
• Phillip Bormann, Chief Administrator
6. Comments from Legislative Delegation
• Iowa State Senator Pam Jochum
• Iowa State Representative Chuck Isenhart
• Iowa State Representative Lindsay James
7. Questions and Comments
6:45 — 6:55 p.m.
7:00 - 7:30 p.m.
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2023 STATE LEGISLATIVE
PRIORITIES
-able of Contents
1. TAX RELATED POLICIES..............................................................................................................................4
a. LOCAL CONTROL AND TAXES................................................................................................................4
b. LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX.....................................................................................................................4
c. REINSTATE BACKFILL.............................................................................................................................4
d. ASSESSOR'S BILL....................................................................................................................................5
e. STATE MANDATES.................................................................................................................................5
2. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT......................................................................................................................6
a. TAX INCREMENT FINANCING (TIF)........................................................................................................6
b. EMINENT DOMAIN................................................................................................................................8
c. STATE HISTORIC TAX CREDITS...............................................................................................................
8
d. QUALITY OF LIFE & COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENTS.............................................................................9
e. CHILDCARE............................................................................................................................................9
f. LAND BANK POLICY..............................................................................................................................10
3. EQUITY....................................................................................................................................................11
a. MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCING...............................................................................................11
b. RACE & EQUITY IMPACT STATEMENTS...............................................................................................11
c. FUNDING FOR YOUTH/YOUNG ADULT INTERNSHIPS.........................................................................11
d. EARLY WARNING SYSTEMS.................................................................................................................12
e. SUPPORT FOR WOMEN AND BIPOC (BLACK, INDIGENOUS, PEOPLE OF COLOR) OWNED SMALL
BUSINESSES.............................................................................................................................................12
f. DECRIMINALIZATION OR LEGALIZATION OF MARIJUANA USE & POSSESSION...................................13
g. SUPPORT COURT FINE & FEE REFORM................................................................................................13
4. TRANSPORTATION..................................................................................................................................15
a. TRANSPORTATION FUNDING..............................................................................................................15
b. RAILROAD SAFETY AND DELAYS..........................................................................................................15
c. IOWA'S ROAD USE TAX FUND (RUTF).................................................................................................15
d. PASSENGER RAIL.................................................................................................................................16
5. DUBUQUE REGIONAL AIRPORT...............................................................................................................17
a. INCREASE AVIATION WORKFORCE IN IOWA...........................................................................................17
b. AIRPORT VERTICAL INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING...................................................................................17
c. PFA/PFOA PROPOSED LEGISLATION........................................................................................................17
d. PROTECT AIRPORT ZONING & AIRSPACE............................................................................................18
6. HOUSING.................................................................................................................................................19
a. STATEWIDE BUILDING CODE ADOPTION............................................................................................19
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b. SMART GROWTH WORKFORCE HOUSING GRANT PROGRAM...........................................................20
c. WORKFORCE HOUSING TAX CREDITS..................................................................................................21
7. TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION................................................................................................................22
a. BROADBAND INFRASTRUCTURE.........................................................................................................22
8. EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT & HOMELAND SECURITY..........................................................................23
a. FLOOD MITIGATION PROGRAM..........................................................................................................23
b. COMBINED EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS & EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER.......................23
9. PUBLIC SAFETY........................................................................................................................................25
a. FIREARMS & VIOLENT CRIME..............................................................................................................25
b. MENTAL HEALTH/EMT TEAMS TO SUPPORT POLICE & COMMUNITY SAFETY...................................25
c. FULL FUNDING FOR JUDICIAL BRANCH SERVICES...............................................................................25
d. HATE CRIME STATUTE.........................................................................................................................25
e. REVIEW OF LAW ENFORCEMENT HIRING PROCESSES (CIVIL SERVICE & CODE REQUIREMENTS) .....
26
10. LIBRARY SERVICES.................................................................................................................................27
a. ENRICH IOWA......................................................................................................................................27
11. HUMAN RESOURCES.............................................................................................................................28
a. MUNICIPAL FIRE & POLICE RETIREMENT SYSTEM OF IOWA...............................................................28
b. 411 SUBROGATION.............................................................................................................................28
c. CONTINUATION OF GROUP INSURANCE.............................................................................................29
12. IOWA CODE CHANGES..........................................................................................................................30
a. MOBILE HOME COMMUNITY PROTECTIONS......................................................................................30
b. AUTHORITY TO PETITION FOR TITLE TO ABANDONED LOTS..............................................................
30
c. UNDERAGE & BINGE DRINKING..........................................................................................................30
d. "GOOD MORAL CHARACTER" LANGUAGE..........................................................................................31
e. ADULT ENTERTAINMENT....................................................................................................................31
13. PLANNING & ZONING............................................................................................................................32
a. EXPAND CITIES' EXTRATERRITORIAL JURISDICTION............................................................................32
b. SMART PLANNING PRINCIPLES...........................................................................................................32
c. LIVABLE COMMUIJTIES........................................................................................................................32
d. HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION GRANT PROGRAM (HSPG).................................................................32
e. PROPERTY OWNERS ON HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSIONS...................................................33
f. APPEAL OF ACTIONS BY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION......................................................33
g. STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE STAFF..................................................................................34
14. PARKS & RECREATION...........................................................................................................................35
a. PARKS TO PEOPLE INITIATIVE..............................................................................................................35
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b. MINES OF SPAIN STATE RECREATION AREA.......................................................................................35
c. RESOURCE ENHANCEMENT AND PROTECTION (REAP).......................................................................37
d. NATURAL RESOURCES & OUTDOOR RECREATION TRUST FUND........................................................37
e. STATE RECREATIONAL TRAILS PROGRAM...........................................................................................38
15. ARTS & CULTURE...................................................................................................................................40
a. ARTS & CULTURE FUNDING................................................................................................................40
16. SUSTAINABILITY & RESILIENCY..............................................................................................................43
a. ENERGY EFFICIENCY & ALTERNATIVE ENERGY....................................................................................43
17. PUBLIC HEALTH.....................................................................................................................................45
a. PUBLIC HEALTH FUNDING...................................................................................................................45
b. BRAIN HEALTH....................................................................................................................................45
c. CHILDREN'S BRAIN HEALTH PRIORITIES..............................................................................................46
d. COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS..........................................................................................................47
e. ACCESS TO HIGH QUALITY, AFFORDABLE HEALTH CARE....................................................................47
f. RECRUIT & RETAIN A QUALIFIED HEALTHCARE WORKFORCE.............................................................47
g. OPIOID EPIDEMIC................................................................................................................................48
h. NOTICE OF VIOLATION........................................................................................................................49
i. CHILDHOOD LEAD POISONING.............................................................................................................49
j. HEALTHY LOCAL FOODS.......................................................................................................................49
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1. TAX RELATED POLICIES
a. LOCAL CONTROL AND TAXES
Local control, also known as Home Rule in the Iowa Constitution (38A Municipal Home Rule) has been
preempted through several acts of the Iowa Legislature in the past decade. Home Rule asserts the right
local governments to make decisions at the local level. Decisions made at the local level take into
consideration those most impacted and also considers unique circumstances of the community, its
needs and concerns. The upcoming 90th Iowa Assembly is poised to remove local government's "home
rule" authority to establish a levy rate for respective local jurisdictions and to eliminate by "scooping"
local option sales tax revenues and reimbursing cities with an undetermined amount of local sales tax
revenues.
LOCAL TAX LEVY AUTHORITY
The City of Dubuque has worked hard to have the lowest or to be among the lowest tax levy of the
eleven largest cities in Iowa. Dubuque has demonstrated a high level of success in local and regional
economic growth and corresponding population growth unlike most of the cities/counties in the state of
Iowa. Usurping control of local government's ability to determine the tax levy rate with "one size fits
all" legislation does not support the goals of Dubuque or the State Legislature nor do we believe it will
yield a successful and prosperous future for Iowa.
REQUESTED ACTION
We urge our state elected officials who wish to preempt local control of the property tax levy to
consider the outcomes and respect the authority and ability of local governments to determine
what is best for their communities in each unique circumstance.
Minimally we ask that there be:
• No hard caps on total revenues that cities can derive.
• No hard caps on overall/total city levy rate.
• "Net New" outside of any growth limitations - don't penalize growth.
b. LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX
The City of Dubuque does not support legislation that would authorize the State of Iowa to raise the
state sales tax by eliminating the local option sales tax (LOSST) with a promise to local governments that
the State would redistribute an undetermined "backfill" amount for an unspecified period of time.
REQUESTED ACTION
As state legislators consider LOSST legislation, we ask that they work to reduce financial harm to
local governments.
c. REINSTATE BACKFILL
Legislation providing for commercial property tax reform passed in the Iowa Assembly in 2013.
This legislation included language providing for cities and protecting local residential taxpayers
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ensuring they would not bear the tax burden of this reform bill. Senate File 619 passed in 2021
which phases out the commercial and industrial property tax replacement claims, known as the
backfill, in either five or eight years, depending on valuation growth.
REQUESTED ACTION
Reinstate funding the backfill and hold Iowa cities and residential property tax payers
harmless for the backfill created by the commercial property tax reform legislation in
2013. Reverse Senate File 619 which passed in 2021 and phases out backfill.
d. 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 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 Iowa 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.
e. STATE MANDATES
Cities are often faced with implementing mandates from the state and federal governments without
receiving the necessary funds for implementation.
REQUESTED 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.
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2. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The role of city government in economic development is crucial. Economic activity requires roads,
streets, airports, water and sanitation. New jobs necessitate more and better workforce housing as well
as quality, affordable childcare. 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.
a. TAX INCREMENT FINANCING (TIF)
The Iowa 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 incentives 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 one of the most important economic development tools available to cities.
Since 2010, there have been a total of 51 development projects that have utilized TIF. These projects
have received an estimated $39,761,034 in direct TIF incentives. These projects have leveraged
$427,604,204 in capital investment throughout the greater downtown and Industrial parks. These
projects have resulted in the retention of 3,559 jobs in Dubuque and the creation of 720 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. Over the years, it has facilitated the purchase and development of over 1,000
acres of land in our industrial parks and Port of Dubuque, the attraction and expansion of 91 businesses,
and created 8,380 jobs.
Dubuque has been the recipient of numerous awards from organizations as diverse as the EPA, the
Human Rights Campaign, the National Civic League, the International Economic Development Council,
Forbes, SmartAsset.com, and the White House for its strong resilient economy, variety of amenities, and
inclusivity.
Wages and income for residents have grown, as evidenced by a 25.2% increase in median household
income from 2013 ($51,475) to 2021 ($64,493) in Dubuque's MSA. Iowa Workforce Development
reported Dubuque's current MSA labor force to be 58,700, a 16.2% increase from 50,500 just two
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decades ago. Dubuque's unemployment rate was just 2.8% in August 2022, a tremendous rebound
from 1983 when it was 24%. This type of job growth and low unemployment is only possible through the
strategic use of TIF. Like many other communities, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a deep, negative
impact on local employment.
Since TIF is really the only economic development financing tool available to Iowa cities, Dubuque often
uses TIF as the local match required when partnering with the Iowa Economic Development Authority.
This was certainly the case with the 1,300 jobs created by IBM, the over 200 retained and 200 created
jobs at Hormel, the 420 jobs retained and created by A.Y. McDonald, and most recently the attraction of
270 high quality jobs at Simmons Pet Food. Without the flexibility this tool provides, Dubuque would
not have this kind of success in job creation and retention.
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 space. Two additional buildings
requiring approximately $40 million in investment, with 92 additional apartments and tens of thousands
of square feet of commercial industrial space were renovated and came online in 2015. In 2021, Dupaco
Community Credit Union completed the $30+ million rehabilitation of a five -story building to house its
corporate headquarters. Ultimately, the entire Historic Millwork District will easily exceed $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 of Dubuque would oppose 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 by the Federal Government.
The City of Dubuque has
supported legislation requiring
increased transparency,
fastidious data collection and
antipiracy language for 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
Retiring TIF - New Tax Money to Taxing Bodies in
Fiscal Year 2019
$900,000
$800,000
$700,000
$600,000
$500,000
$400,000
$300,000
$234,752
$200,000
$170.958
$99,532
$100,000
. -$17-264 $9,854
$_
Tech Park South -2019
$755,174
$579,086
$337,144
$5M8� 377
DICW - Subarea B -2019
■DCSD ■City ■County ■NICC *Other
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 destroy job creation and economic development potential that exists in
current TIF laws.
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REQUESTED 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.
b. 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 Iowa League of Cities and noted above.
c. STATE HISTORIC TAX CREDITS
The Iowa 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, 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 now, Dubuque has completed over three dozen
projects using the State Historic Tax Credit program. These projects leverage over 3 times the amount of
SHTCs invested in the project from other funding sources.
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.
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Recent concerns raised by the Iowa Department of Revenue have resulted in a slowdown of the State
Historic Tax Credit program. City staff and partners of the Smart Growth Coalition will work with the
respective state agencies (DCA, IDR, and IEDA) to reduce current overall timeframe of Part 1, 2, and 3,
and tax credit certificate return. Other suggested administrative changes to the program include
recommending an adjustment go the basis method and clarification of submission requirements to
reduce the number of resubmissions, due to an increased number of exceptions.
REQUESTED ACTION
Join with local governments across the state and private sector partners through membership in
Smart Growth Development Coalition to:
• Preserve, improve, and expand the State Historic Tax Credit Program boosting credit from
25% to 30% to mirror the Federal Historic Tax Credits.
• Increase staffing levels of State departments that review tax credit applications.
• Increase the State capped dollar amount.
d. QUALITY OF LIFE & COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENTS
Successful quality of life programs needs continued funding, such as Enhance Iowa, REAP, CAT funds,
Iowa Great Places, the Iowa Main Street program funds, and tax credits for historic preservation. Having
a variety of recreational, historic, cultural, and outdoor amenities in a community attracts and retains
families and a solid workforce. The listed programs allow the City and its partners to create those
amenities.
REQUESTED ACTION
Protect and enhance economic development tools enabling cities in Iowa to promote economic
improvement throughout the state through investment in our recreational and outdoor
amenities, cultural offerings, and historic rehabilitation of our unique downtowns.
e. CHILDCARE
In many Iowa communities, childcare has become unaffordable, inaccessible,
or nonexistent. As a result, working parents miss work, drop shifts, are less engaged on the job, switch
employers, or leave the workforce altogether. Childcare is an essential and under -emphasized tool for
our state to develop, grow, and sustain a reliable workforce.
Research consistently shows that increasing workers' access to affordable, high quality
childcare options aren't simply a benefit for parents; it improves the economy. Providing access to
quality affordable childcare positively impacts the bottom line of Iowa companies and is critical to
sustaining a strong workforce and economy.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque supports the following recommendations of the Iowa Women's
Foundation:
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o INVESTING IN THE CHILD CARE WORKFORCE -CHILD CARE PROVIDERS EARN AN AVERAGE
OF $10.76 PER HOUR IN IOWA, LEAVING US RANKED 45 IN THE NATION. THE THIRD -LOWEST
PAID PROFESSION STATEWIDE AFTER LOCKER ROOM ATTENDANTS AND LIFEGUARDS.
■ Identify a sustainable source of funding for Child Care WAGE$° Iowa and
T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood° IOWA statewide beyond SFY24.
■ Implement tax cuts and credits to incentivize participation in the childcare
workforce.
o SUPPORT FOR CHILD CARE BUSINESSES
■ Increase childcare assistance reimbursement rate to incentivize participation in
the childcare workforce.
■ Create a subcategory of commercial property used for childcare centers to treat
property tax the same as residentially classed property.
■ Identify a sustainable public -private funding source to help support the shared
services business competencies programs long term.
o QUALITY CHILD CARE FOR FAMILIES
■ Increase income eligibility for Child Care Assistance to 185% incrementally at 5%
annually and 75% of the market rate survey. Iowa's income limit is currently
145% of the Federal Poverty Level. In comparison, Iowa is ranked 46 of all
states.
o CHILD CARE SOLUTIONS FOR BUSINESSES
■ Identify long-term funding to support additional Business Incentive matching
grants. Previous grant program resulted in 36 applications. Additional
communities were interested in applying but unable to meet the timeline.
■ Implement tax incentives and credits to incentivize businesses to increase
investments in childcare, resulting in an increase in quality childcare across the
state.
f. LAND BANK POLICY
In order to return blighted and abandoned properties to productive use quickly, states have passed
legislation that streamlines the tax foreclosure process by giving ownership of these tax reverted
properties to a nonprofit land bank therefore obtaining them earlier in the tax foreclosure auction
process. Further legislative reform in these states has redirected money collected from unpaid and
delinquent property taxes toward land banks for purposes of funding the land banks and for the
purchase of tax reverted properties. The City of Dubuque in collaboration with its regional partners will
explore the formation of a land bank that would purchase tax reverted properties through the tax
foreclosure process. The land bank would maintain these properties until purchase by a responsibility
buyer, ensuring the properties return to productive use.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support Land Bank legislation and work with State partners to approve redirection of monies
collected from unpaid and delinquent property to a regional landbank for funding and for the
purchase of additional tax reverted properties.
101 Page
3. EQUITY
a. MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCING
Mandatory minimum sentences are punishments ordered by judges with terms set by the legislature to
those who have been convicted of crime; they dictate that certain crimes require, by law, a set amount
of time in prison. Mandatory minimum sentencing laws effectively strip judges of their authority to take
the circumstances of a crime into account and shift sentencing power to prosecutors who can use the
threat of these laws to intimidate defendants into pleading guilty in order to receive a reduced sentence
(Written Submission of the American Civil Liberties Union on Racial Disparities in Sentencing, 2014). In
theory, mandatory minimum sentencing laws are "race neutral" and should affect everyone who has
been convicted of a crime equally regardless of race. In practice, however, this is very much not the
case. Prosecutors are more likely to levy heavier charges against people of color in general than they are
against whites, while federal prosecutors are over twice as likely to charge black defendants with
offenses that carry a mandatory minimum than white defendants (Report to the United Nations on
Racial Disparities in the U.S. Criminal Justice System, 2018). This has led to Iowa having one of the
highest rates of imprisonment for black people in the nation (Stageberge & Rabey, 2013). In 2016, 35%
of the 1,196 Iowa inmates serving mandatory sentences were Black.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support striking mandatory minimum sentencing provisions, allowing judges to apply sentencing
guidelines in a way that takes facts into consideration so that sentences fit the crime.
b. RACE & EQUITY IMPACT STATEMENTS
Used to address possible disparities caused by proposed legislation, minority impact statements largely
serve as guidelines for state legislators to utilize in crafting laws that are fair and do not have
disproportionately negative effects on women, people of color, families, and people with disabilities.
Minority impact statements were designed to help prevent disparities from getting worse and are in use
in Iowa with a particular focus on criminal justice disparities. A 2019 review of Iowa's minority impact
statements for criminal matters found that statements need to be made available to all stakeholders
much earlier in the legislative process; they need to be thorough and comprehensive and not a generic
analysis; and that legislation should specifically prohibit the passage of bills where the impact statement
indicates the bill would increase disparities. See The Promise of Racial Impact Statements.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation that requires thorough minority impact statements to be attached early to
any bill, joint resolutions, or amendment and that prohibits passage of bills where the impact
statement indicates the bill would increase disparities. Require review of bills by appropriate
commissions under the Iowa Department of Human Rights.
c. FUNDING FOR YOUTH/YOUNG ADULT INTERNSHIPS
Internships provide experience, training, and build connections that can help youth and young adults
achieve professional success. Youth and young adults with internships on their resumes are more likely
to find full-time employment after they graduate, with over 50% reporting job offers by the time they
graduate (Hecht, 2016). In addition, internships have been shown to help change career directions for
111 Page
the better, with 34.8% indicating a significant change in career direction and 46.3% indicating a slight
change (Saltikoff, 2017). There are significant racial disparities among interns; while over 68% of white
students have participated in internships, less than 60% of black and Latino students have participated
in them (Hecht, 2016). Gender disparities are also significant, with women being 20% more likely to be
in unpaid internships than men. Unpaid internships largely go to those who can afford them, with
students from high -income households being more likely to participate than students from low-income
households.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation that provides funding specifically targeted towards creating paid internships
along with targeted recruitment of applicants of color.
d. EARLY WARNING SYSTEMS
As it relates to policing, an early warning system is a data -based management tool used to detect and
categorize officers who exhibit problem behaviors and to correct said behaviors. Effectively, early
warning systems are supposed to help police departments get involved before their officers' problem
behaviors merit some form of penalty. Early warning systems have been used since the 1980s. By 1999,
39% of police departments were using early warning systems (Walker, Geoffrey, & Kenney, 2001). By
2007, an estimated 65% of police departments utilized early warning systems (Vracar, 2020). Even
though early warning systems have seen more use over the years, problematic behavior persists. The
core issue with early warning systems is not that they are underutilized, but that there is no process to
audit existing early warning systems that would prevent protocol from being ignored.
REQUESTED ACTION
Ensure that local governments have the flexibility to establish early warning systems while
encouraging local police departments to utilize them.
e. SUPPORT FOR WOMEN AND BIPOC (BLACK, INDIGENOUS, PEOPLE OF COLOR) OWNED
SMALL BUSINESSES
With only one minority -owned business for every 43 residents, Iowa's ratio is the lowest in the nation
(Clark, 2014). Iowa's black population is one of the most underserved small business markets in the
nation, representing a mere .8 percent of Iowa's business population compared to 7.1 percent nationally
(Armstrong, 2016). Disproportionately, businesses owned by people of color have not had access to the
funding provided by certain federal and state programs. People of color who own small businesses are
less likely to have strong relationships with their financial institutions, and many immigrants and
refugees who own small businesses are less likely to have access to information they need (Thrane,
2020). The largest minority business development program in the state — the Targeted Small Business
(TSB) program — has received severely limited promotion since 2012 (Augustine, 2014). As a result of the
COVID-19 pandemic, however, a fund has been created to support the TSB program (COVID-19 Targeted
Small Business Sole Operator Fund, 2020). Consistent funding for and promotion of the TSB program
would make it easier for more minority business owners to access and learn about resources they could
use to support their businesses.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation that provides targeted funding for women and BIPOC owned small
businesses.
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f. DECRIMINALIZATION OR LEGALIZATION OF MARIJUANA USE & POSSESSION
Under both federal law and Iowa state law, recreational use of marijuana is illegal. Iowa has some of the
harshest penalties for first -offense marijuana possession in the nation, with possession of any amount of
marijuana being a misdemeanor with 6 months of incarceration and having a maximum fine of $1000.
These penalties are far more likely to harm people of color. With black people being almost eight times
more likely than white people to be arrested for marijuana possession (despite the fact that both use
marijuana at roughly equal rates), Iowa is surpassed only by Montana, Kentucky, Illinois, and West
Virginia in terms of racial disparities in arrests for marijuana possession (Edwards, et al., 2020).
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation that legalizes marijuana or, at a minimum, decriminalizes marijuana use and
possession.
g. SUPPORT COURT FINE & FEE REFORM
Court fines and fees often become a barrier to financial self-sufficiency for families living in poverty.
Given the disproportionate number of African Americans living in poverty and interacting with the court
system, this has a significant racial equity impact.
First, several provisions make it difficult for those with limited incomes to get out from under court
debt. Under Iowa Court Rules Chapter 26, an individual must have $300 in court debt before they are
eligible for a payment plan or can perform community service, though Iowa Code Section 602.8107
would allow the court to establish a lower threshold. When they enter a payment plan, a minimum
payment of $50 is required. Community service is valued at the minimum wage of $7.25 an hour, yet the
value of a volunteer hour in general is $29.95 as of April 2022. Participants in community service
supervision programs currently are charged $50 to be supervised, which defeats the purpose of allowing
community service as an alternative to payment because they cannot afford the fees and, in any event,
is not a financially sustainable model. The agency historically tracking community service in Dubuque
(Project Concern) couldn't financially support the continued operation of the program as the $50 paid by
the individual needing supervision was a flat fee. $50 was paid whether the individual had 2 meetings
over the course of a month with the staff member or 25 meetings over three (3) years, it wasn't a
sustainable model financially. While the judges at the local level were supportive there were no court
funds to support the work being done. A community service funded program to work off Court debt
should properly be managed by the Courts/Clerk of Court.
Second, unpaid debt can interfere with ongoing employment and financial stability. As just one
example, when a resident in Iowa has a criminal conviction of any kind and has court debt, a hold is
placed on the person's vehicle registration. If the conviction was for a vehicular crime, then the person's
driver's license is automatically suspended as well. If the crime is non -vehicular and the person's
financial state prevents them from paying the court debt, the hold on the registration turns into a
suspension when the renewal of their tags goes unpaid. If they continue to drive — to get to work for
example — they may then be charged with driving with expired tags, a vehicular crime that leads to
license suspension. There is also anecdotal evidence from attorneys who have worked "rocket docket"
that people believe that paying the court debt is enough to reinstate their license, which is untrue. They
must also file with the DOT and pay a $30 reinstatement fee. Depending on the amount of time that
passes, they may also need to retake both the written and driving tests.
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Third, indigent defendants are constitutionally and statutorily entitled to an assessment of their ability
to pay for any court debt other than fines, surcharges, and victim restitution. However, Iowa law also
presumes an ability to pay and there is little to no remaining oversight into court decisions regarding
someone's ability to pay - courts do not have to provide reasons for finding that a defendant is able to
pay, a court can ascertain ability to pay before knowing the full scope of the debt, and direct appeal of a
judge's decision is available in few situations. In addition, indigent defendants incur additional costs like
indigent defense fees and jail fees that arise because of an inability to afford their own attorney or to
afford bond or bail while awaiting trial. On the one hand, the constitution requires that everyone be
provided counsel and a speedy trial (or be released in the interim) and yet one's financial status is
intricately intertwined with the degree to which these rights are "real" in any pragmatic sense. These
fees when unpaid multiply quickly with the Department of Revenue imposed 15% collection fee.
REQUESTED ACTION
Eliminate the $300 eligibility threshold for a payment plan; eliminate the minimum payment
requirement of $50; eliminate the $300 eligibility threshold for community service; set a viable
and realistic value of an hour of community service to equate to the value of a "volunteer hour"
which was $28.54 as of July 2021; properly fund staffing in courthouses to account for tracking
community service efforts across the state as opposed to the hodge podge of community
service systems set up at the local level without proper funding across the state. Eliminate the
non -renewal of vehicle registrations and the suspension of licenses based on court debt or, at a
minimum, on court debt that is related to a non -vehicular crime. Strengthen requirements to
ensure a full and fair assessment of ability to pay or, at a minimum, oppose any effort to further
restrict or eliminate ability to pay protections such as the changes proposed last session by
HSB658 and SF2374. Advocate for changes to Department of Revenue policies that would allow
for partial or full waiver of the 15% collection fee upon a showing of financial hardship and that
would exclude indigent defense fee recoupment and jail fees from the basis used to calculate
the 15% collection fee.
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4. TRANSPORTATION
a. TRANSPORTATION FUNDING
Dubuque is the regional economic center for the Iowa, 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, Kendall/Hunt
Publishing, Simmons Pet Food 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 Southwest Arterial shared -use bike and pedestrian trail
• Design, ROW acquisition and construction of East-West corridor capacity improvements
• Improvements and enhancements of the existing at -grade railroad crossings in Downtown
Dubuque
• Intersection enhancements at the Northwest Arterial and Highway 20 intersection
REQUESTED ACTION
In order to increase transportation revenue for these and other important transportation
projects the City requests support of the Iowa Department of Transportation Commission to
maintain its current programmed funding and increased opportunities for funding to ensure
implementation of priority transportation projects.
b. RAILROAD SAFETY AND DELAYS
Downtown railroad tracks cleave the community, separating poorer neighborhoods from employment
and recreational opportunities. Already, 8-10 trains park in downtown Dubuque for 20-30 minutes each
as they pass through the community, causing traffic to and from the Kerper Boulevard Industrial Park
and Chaplain Schmitt Island to be delayed for long periods of time. Railroad delays of up to 5 hours daily
(including during peak times) impair the efficient movement of people and goods and impose additional
costs on businesses. This transportation barrier will grow larger with the pending merger of the
Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern railroads, as train traffic will nearly double to 18 trains per
day that are forecasted to pass through Dubuque. The additional train traffic will cripple the downtown
traffic network, causing significant delays and safety related concerns
REQUESTED ACTION
City requests support of the Iowa Department of Transportation Commission as the City pursues
state and federal infrastructure grant opportunities to construct a vehicular and pedestrian
grade separated railroad overpass at 14th Street.
c. IOWA'S ROAD USE TAX FUND (RUTF)
According to Iowa Code, road use tax funds (RUTF) are studied every five years in order to identify
alternative revenue options that could support and enhance the fund as traditional transportation
modes evolve and older funding streams diminish.
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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 Iowa'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 Iowa's
drivers purchase fewer gallons of conventional vehicle fuels.
REQUESTED ACTION
Investigate alternative funding mechanisms to increase funding for Iowa's transportation
infrastructure. Study to include possible additional revenues from agricultural, energy, and other
sectors that have heavy traffic and load impacts on Iowa's transportation systems.
d. PASSENGER 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. The City has been successful in partnership with DMATS and the local Ride the Rail citizen group
in securing funding for the feasibility study of passenger rail return from Rockford to Dubuque.
REQUESTED ACTION
Continue to support the return of passenger rail from Chicago to Dubuque, with local and
regional partners.
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5. DUBUQUE REGIONAL AIRPORT
a. INCREASE AVIATION WORKFORCE IN IOWA
The lack of persons entering the aviation workforce in Iowa is cause for high concern. There is a great
need for aircraft mechanics, aircraft technicians, pilots, flight crew, ground crew, and airport
management. The IPAA supports the inclusion of these careers in the Iowa Skilled Workforce Shortage
Tuition Grant program (Kibbie Grants.)
REQUESTED ACTION
• Support the continuation of the $5 million dollar appropriation for the grant program
and include aviation careers in the Iowa Skilled Workforce Shortage Tuition Grant
Program.
• Support Iowa's colleges and universities which offer pilot, flight crew and aviation
education are in need of new technology to train the next generation of aviation
professionals.
• Support one time appropriation from the state Technology Fund to assist private college
and universities to update technology (Example: flight training simulators).
• Support Home Base Iowa (HBI) is a state program that connects Iowa businesses with
qualified veterans and their spouses looking for career opportunities. HBI makes career
opportunities possible by connecting Iowa businesses and communities to skilled
Veterans, military personnel, and their spouses. Now integrated with Iowa's
reemployment system, Iowa WORKS, businesses hiring in Iowa are able to leverage the
many tools, resources, and staff to meet their workforce needs.
Support IPAA will seek to become a Home Base Iowa member.
b. AIRPORT VERTICAL INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING
The Association requests an appropriation of $2.0 million for the Commercial Service Vertical
Infrastructure (CSVI) program and $1.5 million for the General Aviation Airport Vertical Infrastructure
program from the Rebuild Iowa Infrastructure Fund.
REQUESTED ACTION
Increase CSVI from $1.9 Million to $2 Million and increase GA from $900,000 to $1.5 Million
c. PFA/PFOA PROPOSED LEGISLATION
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals that include
Perfluoro octane Sulfonate (PFOS) and Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA). AFFF firefighting foam has been
mandated for use by the Federal Aviation Administration with no approved substitute to date.
REQUESTED ACTION
Respectfully requests monitor - oppose any legislation that holds airports liable for the use or
cleanup of AFFF firefighting foam or its residue respectively, provide funding for the proper
clean up and disposal of AFFF products manufactured with PFAS once an alternative is approved
by the FAA.
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PROTECT AIRPORT ZONING & AIRSPACE
Protecting and preserving airport approach and departure paths is one of the main reasons airport
protections were placed in the Iowa Code many years ago. The safety and protection of the public,
pilots and passengers must not be placed secondary to tower siting considerations.
REQUESTED ACTION
Dubuque opposes any efforts to eliminate, supersede, or lessen the zoning and airspace
protection abilities of local communities for their public airports.
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6. HOUSING
a. STATEWIDE BUILDING CODE ADOPTION
The creation of a statewide building code, with no ability for local amendments, would be extremely
detrimental to the safety of residents and could create costly issues for developers who are attempting
to rehabilitate buildings. Without a proper development of a statewide code, there will be several years
of ambiguity and the inability to enforce any building code.
A proper review of a Statewide Building Code requires several years of committee review specific to
each trade represented in the code. Things that must be considered for each trade include;
• How will this affect older cities?
• Were proper records kept to support "at the time of construction" language in a code?
• Is adopting varying years of International Code congruent? Do the references "dead end"?
• Would the State be able to support the number of appeals, and requests for modifications?
• Codes reference types of buildings, are they applicable throughout the State as they are
intended to apply?
• Can cities support any additional needs created by fire code updates or amendment carve outs
completed by the State?
• What is the cost associated with the adoption, for the State and local enforcement?
Dubuque is one of the oldest cities in the State, and therefore have extensive experience with trying to
enforce building codes that reference "at the time of construction". Records are not readily available
from the 1950s through the 1990's, and significant unavailable prior to that date; therefore, the building
codes adopted at the time of construction will be impossible to determine. Any enforcement attempted
for these codes will be an appeal to the State for review. The State is not currently funded to support
this many reviews from the City of Dubuque alone, much less the many other cities similarly situated.
Many federal grants require the adoption of the two most recent code cycles for all building codes to be
eligible for funding. Most significantly, FEMA funds are tied to this requirement. State building codes are
already outdated, by ten years and three editions, this needs to be remedied. Failing to adopt the most
recent building codes will reduce Cities and the State ISO rating in the Building Code Effectiveness
Grading Schedule. ISO ratings are used to determine insurance rate schedules, including homeowner
insurance rates, and recovery funding from FEMA. This will have a significant impact on Iowa's economy
and the ability to recover from a disaster. A quote from the FY 2021 FEMA BRIC grant priorities:
"The priorities for the program are to incentivize natural hazard risk reduction activities... and to
increase funding to applicants that facilitate the adoption and enforcement of the latest published
editions of building codes."
REQUESTED ACTION
• Work with professional associations, such as the Iowa Association of Building Official, to
form committees for a proper review of code before adoption.
• Complete a proper review of codes before adoption, which means this will not be ready for
legislative consideration until 2024 at the earliest.
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• Legislatives writers cannot complete this task appropriately, professionals in the building
code field need to be commissioned for this.
• Consider removing all "at the time of construction" language in any International Code; it is
not enforceable language in most Iowa cities. Explore other options that balance economic
feasibility for developers and safety.
• Codes adopted MUST be in the last two code cycles, or all FEMA assistance potential will be
lost.
b. SMART GROWTH WORKFORCE HOUSING GRANT PROGRAM
Creation of the Smart Growth Workforce Housing grant program under the discretionary policy of the
Iowa 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 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 tenant's 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 government's 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 discrepancy by
living far from their downtown jobs or by living in housing they can't afford. Unfortunately, the former
solution is offset by an increase in transportation costs. And what is the price we pay 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
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this reason, many developers have turned to the LIHTC program to make their projects financially
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 Iowa Finance Authority Smart Growth Workforce Housing grant program.
• Allow access to funds from the National Housing Trust Fund for the rehabilitation of
dilapidated and long -vacant properties, despite having a prior residential use.
c. WORKFORCE HOUSING TAX CREDITS
The "sun -setting" of the Iowa 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 order to meet the demand identified by the State of Iowa. 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 Iowa 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.
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7. TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION
a. BROADBAND INFRASTRUCTURE
Dubuque supports state efforts to expand broadband in the state. Like water, sewer, energy and roads,
affordable, available and accessible broadband (defined as 100Mb download and 20 Mb upload 100/20 )
service with capacity to support 1 Gigabit or greater is necessary to support 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 Iowa Communication Network
(ICN). State policy should fund innovative approaches by local communities to bring 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. Preservation of the use of the public right of way for
utilities provides benefits to all right of way users. Reasonable regulations that provide for efficient use
of sometimes very limited public right of way space is a wise investment that pay dividends in the future
to all taxpayers. When the first utility into a location inefficiently installs their utilities, it drives up
future installation costs for utilities that follow behind. The additional incurred costs by the following
utilities are then passed on to rate payers. Individual residents and commercial property owners can
also incur additional costs installing private service laterals when utility conflicts exist in front of their
private property. Lastly, if the State chooses to "target" 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 available, affordable, and accessible broadband access in a specific location versus
larger community -wide areas. A Broadband issue in our community is the consequence of existing
broadband infrastructure that is deficient relative to both the last mile and middle mile transport
facilities used in underserved populations. The current infrastructure is out -of -sync with both the
greater population densities and the collective broadband needs of the residents and businesses within
areas of the community.
REQUESTED ACTION
Continue to support policy and funding for expansion and universal access to broadband in
the State of Iowa. Modernized the statewide telecommunications franchise agreement. We
continue to support home rule around location and policy regarding broadband resources.
Redefine "rural" and create an equitable formula for the distribution of broadband grant
funding and other broadband funds throughout the state of Iowa.
Update broadband availability maps with data reflecting address -based test data from
neutral non -vendor sources versus FCC Form 477 carrier reported maximum advertised
internet speeds.
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8. EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT & HOMELAND SECURITY
a. FLOOD MITIGATION PROGRAM
Federal Emergency Management Administration has asserted that for everyone 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 Iowa 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 Iowa citizens.
b. COMBINED EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS & EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER
Dubuque County has experienced nine (Covid #9) 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 Iowa 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 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
in the middle of the building and is restricted for future growth. Currently there are six full console
positions. 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. During the pandemic, the Communication center had to be split into 2
different rooms to maintain social distancing. The center has completed the updating of its radio system
to a P25 System with all Public safety agencies using the new system at this time. Even though updates
to the radio system have occurred at current location, there still is 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 Iowa has partnered with many larger city/county governments to assist in funding
combined emergency communications centers and emergency operations centers.
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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 911 Service Boards with maintaining 911 systems.
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9. PUBLIC SAFETY
a. FIREARMS & VIOLENT CRIME
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 Iowa Senate Judiciary Committee to request the State take a harder look at firearms and
violent crime issues across the state.
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.
b. MENTAL HEALTH/EMT TEAMS TO SUPPORT POLICE & COMMUNITY SAFETY
State leadership and funding is required to establish and support alternative teams of local community
service providers to work with local police professionals to address public safety. Police professionals
are called upon more frequently to serve as first responder, mediator, mental health counselor, and
social worker.
REQUESTED ACTION
Create a state task force to study replicable models that could address the need for support
teams for local police. Identify funding sources for mental health professionals, medical
professionals and social workers who would staff this expansion of community service to
residents.
c. FULL FUNDING 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.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation which provides full funding for the requested budget of the State of Iowa's
judicial branch. To do otherwise jeopardizes work being done with youth and is a compromise to
public safety.
d. HATE CRIME STATUTE
According to FBI Hate Crime Statistics, hate crimes against people based on gender identity are on the
rise. The 2019 data indicates that 2.7% of reported hate crimes were committed against people based
on gender identity. This compares to 2.2% of reported hate crimes in 2018, 1.6% in 2017, 2.0% in 2016,
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1.7% in 2015, 1.8% in 2014, and .5% in 2013 (the first year that hate crimes based on gender identity
were reported). Note that not all jurisdictions report hate crime statistics to the FBI and jurisdictions like
Iowa would report zero based on gender identity because state law omits gender identity from the hate
crime statute.
As of September 2021, 22 states plus the District of Columbia and two territories have hate crime laws
that include gender identity. Iowa is one of 11 states whose hate crime law includes sexual orientation
but does not include gender identity.
http://www.Igbtmap.org/equality-maps/hate crime laws.
A 2016 murder in Burlington garnered national attention when local law enforcement officials could not
charge the homicide as a hate crime based on the lack of including of gender identity in the statute.
https://www.nvtimes.com/2017/10/26/us/transgender-iowa-murder-trial-kedarie-mohnson.html.
In addition, we continue to hear concerns from community members of color that they find themselves
in situations where someone is trying to instigate a fight using racial slurs. When the situation in fact
escalates to a fight, both parties are typically charged with disorderly conduct. Enhancing the disorderly
conduct penalty for a person who uses slurs or other indicia of bias to select their victim and instigate a
fight may deter the use of these "fighting words" which are tantamount to a breach of the peace and
enhance community safety and security for community members of color.
The American Psychological Association, which takes a public health approach to violence prevention,
notes that dehumanization of unfamiliar groups and targeted aggression that is behind hate violence
can result in more dramatic psychological effects on victims as compared to crimes that are not
motivated by bias. In addition, hate crimes tend to decrease feelings of safety and security in the
community for members who share the victim's group status.
http://www.apa.org/advocacy/interpersonal-violence/hate-crimes.aspx
REQUESTED ACTION
Amend hate crimes statute to include gender identity and to add disorderly conduct Iowa Code
723.4 as a crime subject to penalty enhancement.
e. REVIEW OF LAW ENFORCEMENT HIRING PROCESSES (CIVIL SERVICE & CODE REQUIREMENTS)
Current hiring practices for law enforcement in Iowa require a Civil Service test. The test is a basic skills
test and is governed by Civil Service Commissions with guidance from State Code Chapter 400. The
testing is set by the state and has not been updated in a very long time. Additionally, if asked, there is
no context or background as to why a civil service list needs to be established for hiring. The current
civil service law hinders "real time" hiring practices and hinders ongoing hiring practices.
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10. LIBRARY SERVICES
a. ENRICH IOWA
Enrich Iowa is a state aid program for Iowa's libraries. Until recently, Iowa 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 Iowa 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 Iowa program.
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11. HUMAN RESOURCES
a. MUNICIPAL FIRE & POLICE RETIREMENT SYSTEM OF IOWA
Police and firefighter pensions are funded through the Municipal Fire & Police Retirement System of
Iowa (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, 25.68 percent in Fiscal Year 2018, 26.02 percent in Fiscal Year 2019 and
24.41 percent in Fiscal Year 2020.
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
9.44 percent — a difference of 64 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 it's 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 Iowa 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.
b. 411 SUBROGATION
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.
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.
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c. CONTINUATION OF GROUP INSURANCE
Iowa 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
75, 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 Iowa Code 509A.13, Continuation of Group Insurance.
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12. IOWA CODE CHANGES
a. MOBILE HOME COMMUNITY PROTECTIONS
Legislation related to mobile homes and mobile home communities was adopted at a time when mobile
homes were truly mobile. Today, mobile homes are more stationary than they have been historically.
However, Iowa laws have not been updated to reflect this important and highly consequential change.
Today, some companies are using current law to their financial benefit and to the detriment of mobile
home community residents. These predatory practices are putting vulnerable citizens in financially
precarious situations and sometimes in financial jeopardy. Mobile home communities can be a viable
choice in Iowa's efforts to create affordable housing opportunities across the state. Therefore, review
and reform of current law is vital. Specific recommendations include basic fairness considerations such
as justification and notice for lot rent increases and good cause for refusal to continue a lease, with
clarification that legitimate business reasons can satisfy these requirements. In addition, it is important
that the Attorney General Consumer Protection Division have the ability to enforce against predatory
practices.
REQUESTED ACTION
A comprehensive review and reform of the State code related to mobile home community
protections is necessary to protect Iowa citizens and to support the goal of affordable housing in
Iowa.
b. AUTHORITY TO PETITION FOR TITLE TO ABANDONED LOTS
A gap has been identified in Iowa Code, Chapter 657A; while cities can petition for title to abandoned
residential, commercial, and industrial properties with buildings, cities have no 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 Iowa Code, Chapter 657A and allow cities to petition for title to
abandoned lots as well as abandoned residential, commercial, and industrial properties with
buildings.
c. UNDERAGE & BINGE DRINKING
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 Iowa Code Chapter 321.216 and 123.50 to a higher penalty.
REQUESTED ACTION
Pass legislation to increase the simple misdemeanor penalty found in Iowa Code Chapter
321.216 and 123.50 to a higher penalty.
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d. "GOOD MORAL CHARACTER" LANGUAGE
One of the criteria for the issuance of a State of Iowa liquor license is determined by "Person of Good
Moral Character" as defined in State of Iowa Code 123.3 (26)(d). The State fails to consider 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.
e. 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 Iowa giving the City authority to regulate adult
entertainment establishments.
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13. PLANNING &ZONING
a. 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. Support 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.
b. SMART PLANNING PRINCIPLES
State agencies, local governments, and other public entities shall consider and may apply the following
principles during deliberation of all appropriate planning, zoning, development, and resource
management decisions.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support comprehensive planning and the Smart Planning Principles outlined in Iowa Code and
opposes any legislation to remove or weaken the practice of sound planning in Iowa's
communities.
c. LIVABLE COMMUIJTIES
A livable community is one that is safe and secure, has affordable and appropriate housing and
transportation options, and offers supportive community features and services.
REQUESTED ACTION
• Supports state policies that seek to improve quality of life by promoting development of
safe, accessible, and vibrant environments. Policies could address sustainable land use,
mixed use developments, multigenerational and affordable housing, alternative
transportation, and efforts to help residents age in place.
• Support legislation to enable land banking and similar community -based programs to
address blight and disinvestment.
• Supports increased investment in affordable housing programs, including the State Housing
Trust Fund, Workforce Housing Tax Credits, and other programs that provide quality housing
for low- and moderate -income families, reduce barriers to homeownership, and support the
modification of homes to help people age in place.
d. HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION GRANT PROGRAM (HSPG)
The State of Iowa 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 Iowa. The Historic Site Preservation Grant provided funds to acquire, repair, rehabilitate,
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and develop historic sites that preserve, interpret, or promote Iowa's cultural heritage. Projects funded
by this program had to promote an understanding of the record of human experience within Iowa.
All HSPG projects were limited to work on "vertical infrastructure," which is defined in Iowa 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.
REQUESTED ACTION
Restore State funding for the Historic Site Preservation Grant Program (HSPG).
e. PROPERTY OWNERS ON HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSIONS
Section 303.34 of the Iowa 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 Iowa 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 majority of 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 BY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
Section 303.34 of the Iowa 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 appeal process regarding an action of the historic
preservation commission. Also, clarify the procedure for appeals to the district court.
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g. STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE STAFF
With pending approval for federal dollars for infrastructure and other projects, there will be greater
demand for Section 106 Reviews as part of environment review compliance.
REQUESTED ACTION
Increase SHPO staff to review Section 106 reviews in a timely manner.
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14. PARKS & RECREATION
a. PARKS TO PEOPLE INITIATIVE
The Iowa Parks Foundation continues to work tirelessly to create economic and recreational facilities
opportunities to grow regions across the State of Iowa. The Jones, Jackson and Dubuque County region
was selected for the Iowa Parks Foundation's pilot project. The pilot project - Parks to People - aimed to
better connect state, county, and city regional park systems to local communities. The initiative
beautifies and improves state, county, and city parks to ensure Iowa 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 Iowa and
an economic development and tourism enhancement initiative.
As a part of the first pilot region (Dubuque, Jones, and Jackson counties), parks in the region received
$1.9 million in state appropriation. This region which is now called Grant Wood Loop completed
projects totaling over $50 million to build upon the state's $1.9 million appropriation. This was far, far
greater than the 5:1 match required of the state provided funding. More than 80 projects across the
three counties (both rural and urban) were completed prior to the December 2018 pilot project
deadline.
The regional Grant Wood Loop initiative continues today with very strong public -private, government,
and nonprofit partnerships. The City of Dubuque supports the regional Parks to People efforts and
promotes the goals of regional collaboration: economic development, quality of life, wellness,
education, arts and culture and outdoor recreation.
REQUESTED ACTION
Create $2 million -dollars of dedicated funding for regional planning, development,
redevelopment, and enhancement of outdoor recreation opportunities that leverages strong
public -private partnership with state resources leveraged at 5:1 match at the State Department
of Natural Resources.
b. 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
Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin is seriously threatened by tenuous and declining State funding.
Local Response to State Needs
The Mines of Spain is a regional destination where visitors and residents 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, raised $1.8 million in private, local, state and federal funds.
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The award -winning LEED-certified Interpretive Center welcomes 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.
Working with the IDNR, the City of Dubuque, the FOMOS, private donors and the Iowa Natural Heritage
Foundation raised over $1.98 million to acquire and developed 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 bluff lands 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 bluff lands 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 201h 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 Friend of the Mines of Spain 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.
COVID-19 brought thousands of new park users to the Mines of Spain Recreation Area and that usage
has remained very high. This use increases the health, both physical and brain health of Iowans.
Additionally invasive species need to be managed which takes the time of staff and/or contractors to
ensure the protection of the natural resource. The increased usage creates additional need for
maintenance staffing and support thus state help is needed for increased funding for the operations and
staffing of Mines of Spain Recreation Area and state parks across Iowa.
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
Dubuque County Conservation, the Friends of Mines of Spain and the City of Dubuque.
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c. RESOURCE ENHANCEMENT AND PROTECTION (REAP)
REAP is a program in the State of Iowa 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 (Iowa gaming receipts) and from the sale of the
natural resource license plate. The program is authorized to receive $20 million per year until 2026, but the
state legislature sets the amount of REAP funding every year. This year REAP was appropriated $12 million.
Interest from the REAP account and receipts from the sale of natural resource license plates add about
$500,000 to this appropriation.
REAP has been used extensively in Dubuque for land acquisition and trails. Most recently it was used to
acquire an adjoining property to the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area and extension of the
Northwest Arterial Trail which directly connects to the Heritage Trail as well as environmental
restoration of Eagle Point Park and Four Mounds Park. All benefit tourism and connecting people to the
outdoors with active recreation. Since 1998 Dubuque County has received over $6.95 million in REAP
allocations for 220 projects for city parks and open space grants, conservation education, county
conservation grants and allocations, historic resource development grants, land management, roadside
vegetation, and soil and water enhancement (from report dated 2020).
REQUESTED ACTION
Request that the Iowa Legislature work to increase REAP to full funding of $20 million as
authorized and create more permanent year after year funding.
d. NATURAL RESOURCES & OUTDOOR RECREATION TRUST FUND
The Iowa Legislature has a great opportunity to fulfill its promise to Iowans to protect Iowa's land and
water by passing a measure that funds the Natural Resources and Outdoor Recreation Trust Fund, also
called Iowa's Water and Land Legacy.
In 2010, over 60% of Iowa voters supported creation of the Fund to provide reliable and dedicated
funding for the protection of water quality, conservation of agricultural soils and improvement of
natural areas such as fish and wildlife habitat. However, no money will go into it unless the Legislature
raises the sales tax. If raised, the first three -eighths of the tax will go toward the Trust Fund. It was
reported that this would generate about $150 million a year. Once funded, the Trust Fund guarantees
that money in the Trust be allocated as shown in the graph.
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Soil & Water Conserva.ticn
Parka & Preserves
Trails
Local Conservation PartnersNps
Watershed Protection
Lake Restoration
Our most productive soil is
being lost at an alarming
rate, threating the economic
engine that is Iowa's family
farms. Funding the Trust
Fund will provide protection
of these resources for future
generations by:
• Providing significant funding for investments in voluntary soil conservation practices and
technology that can improve yields and profits on Iowa farms.
• Fostering and leveraging partnerships between agriculture, the non-profit and private sectors
and government for implementation of water quality and soil conservation practices.
• 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 Iowa's communities, particularly rural ones by
contributing millions in local and state tax revenues, providing jobs, and generating billions of dollars in
Iowa's economy.
• Hunting, fishing and wildlife watching generate $1.54 billion per year in Iowa. This includes $974
million in local retail sales, creating and supporting more than 17,800 jobs.
• Hunters alone support over 7,000 jobs in Iowa 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.
REQUESTED 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 Iowa already supported and approved with a significant majority.
e. STATE RECREATIONAL TRAILS PROGRAM
The state recreational trails program (SRT) provides funds to establish recreational trails throughout
Iowa for the use, enjoyment and participation of the public. The program is restricted to the acquisition,
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construction or improvement of recreational trails open for public use or trails which will be dedicated
public use upon completion.
The citizens of Dubuque have benefitted from this grant program to establish trails in our community
connecting recreational resources as well as providing trail transportation corridors for bikes and
pedestrians. Trails continue to grow in popularity and are an economic engine for the state.
In the last six years the Iowa Department of Transportation program has had funding of $3.4, $2.5, 1.2,
$1, $1.5, $1 and $2.5 million to award with requests each year ranging from $34.2 million to $10.5
million in the lowest year. The need far outweighs the funding available which keeps decreasing.
REQUESTED ACTION
Authorize additional funding each year at a stable level appropriate to the needs for the State.
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15. ARTS & CULTURE
a. ARTS & CULTURE FUNDING
Vibrant and livable communities in Iowa are those that support and invest in arts, culture, and
humanities initiatives and programs as tools for economic and community development. Equitable
access to and representation in arts and cultural programs improves the quality of life for all Iowans and
stimulates economic activity, helping to attract and retain a diverse workforce which is essential to
Iowa's economic vitality and competitive edge. Arts and culture as a stand-alone industry is a bustling
sector, supporting a wide variety of education, entertainment, recreational, and skilled -trades jobs while
providing essential revenue streams for local travel and hospitality businesses and generating significant
contributes to federal, state, and local governments. Iowa's arts and culture sector is a necessary
element of the state's overall COVID-19 recovery strategy and a long-term asset for the state's overall
growth and vitality in the 21st century.
Community -created
Solidarity Mural at
Dubuque's Five Flags Civic
Center. Designed by local
artist Shelby Fry. Painted
1 by 75+volunteers, June
1 2020. Photograph by Bob
Felderman.
Nationally, the arts culture sector and creative economy is a $876.7 billion industry which equates to
4.2% of the nation's GDP — a larger share of the economy than transportation and utilities. This
represents $27.5 billion in federal, state, and local tax revenue generated by the nonprofit arts and
culture sector alone. In Iowa, the arts and culture sector contribute an estimated $4.2 billion to the
state's economy, representing 2.1% of the state's GDP and 38,110 jobs, numbers that have drastically
declined from pre -pandemic levels.
Artists and nonprofit organizations, particularly those dependent on revenue from contract work and
earned income, have been especially hard-hit by COVID-19 cancellations, closures, and lost
opportunities.
According to a recent survey of Iowa cultural organizations:
• Iowa arts and cultural organizations incurred financial losses of at least $31.2 million as of
August 26, 2020.
• 95% have reported cancelling events, impacting more than 1.2 M Iowans.
• Organizations have lost about 2.7 million attendees since March.
• More than 1,400 arts and creative workers have been furloughed or laid off in Iowa.
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A survey of Dubuque nonprofit arts and culture organizations in April 2021 point to at least $3.9 million
in unrealized operating and program revenue in 2020 versus 2019 for the sector locally. CARES Act and
American Rescue Plan Funds, along with Shutter Venue Operator Grants and Payroll Protection Program
funding has helped these organizations to weather the height of the storm. Continued appropriations to
State arts and culture agencies will be key to the sector's resiliency and role in helping communities
rebuild and recover.
According to the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies, Iowa is projected to rank 44th in per capita
spending at 46 cents for arts and culture through its state arts agency in FY2023. Iowa continues to
trend downward in its investment in the arts and culture sector, as it falls further behind moving from its
ranking as 415Y in FY21 and FY22. The National average is $1.21. 4 of 5 neighboring states rank higher
and invest more in their creative sector than Iowa does. In FY23, it is projected that Minnesota will again
rank 1st at $7.63 per capita, Missouri 12t" at $3.02, Illinois 24th at $1.08, at $1.05, and Nebraska 5th at
$5.14. These projected FY2023 appropriations include line -item funds designated by the legislature to
pass through the state arts agency to other entities.
In 2012, Dubuque participated in one of the most comprehensive economic impact studies of the
nonprofit arts and culture industry ever conducted in the United States. The Arts & Economic Prosperity
IV study was conducted by Americans for the Arts, the nation's leading nonprofit organization for
advancing the arts and arts education. The results showed that Dubuque's nonprofit arts and culture
sector 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. Dubuque has elected to participate in the upcoming Arts & Economic
Prosperity VI study to assess the current economic and update impact figures of our nonprofit arts and
culture organizations.
The Dubuque City Council prioritized arts and culture investment to foster equitable access and
representation in a thriving arts and culture community. 'Diverse arts, culture, parks, and recreation
experiences and activities' is one of eight City of Dubuque 2037 Goals.
Since 2004, the Dubuque's City Council has taken actions such as establishing an Arts and Cultural Affairs
Advisory Committee, dedicating $35,000 annually in special project grants, and establishing a Downtown
Cultural Corridor managed by Dubuque Main Street. Additional investments include an operating
support grant program for local arts and culture non -profits which has grown from $200,000 in FY06 to
$250,000 in FY21.
We enjoy an annual rotating public sculpture program, seeded as a ten-year $300,000 CIP in FY06 and
now funding through the City's general fund at $37,500 annually. A part-time, now full-time staff
position, of Arts & Cultural Affairs Coordinator was added in FY09 and continues as a key member of the
City's Economic Development Department team. To date, the City of Dubuque has provided $3.96
million in direct funding for arts and culture since the establishment of the City's Arts and Cultural
Affairs Advisory Commission in 2004. City funding alone is insufficient for local arts and culture sectors
and creative economies to flourish, especially in rural communities where municipal funding for the arts
rarely exists and even in communities like Dubuque where the arts are invested in as a key tool for
community success.
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In 2014, the City recognized the need for master arts planning to advance its' reputation as a regional
creative and cultural hub. The resulting Arts and Culture Master Plan was adopted by City Council in
2016 and serves as a guide to assist the City in strategic resource management, to sustain arts and
culture as an integral part of the community's social and cultural vibrancy. The plan engages the
community in the implementation of the plan, reflecting the community's vision to utilize arts and
culture to enhance our sense of place, contribute to Dubuque's economic vitality, create, and support
an environment where art and culture thrive, and enrich Dubuque culturally, aesthetically,
educationally, and economically.
The support of the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs (IDCA), its various divisions, and their
subsequent grant programs, is vital to the arts and culture organizations and creative workers in
Dubuque. Dubuque does not currently offer grant programs for individual artists or for -profit culture
entities; the Iowa Arts Council (IAC) Project Grants and Iowa Artist Fellowship Program provide critical
opportunities for creative culture bearers to create their work and engage their communities. IAC's
other grant programs including School Arts Experience, Cultural Heritage Project Grants, Cultural
Leadership Partner Operating Support Grants, Arts Build Communities Grant, and others provide
essential support for educational opportunities, community enrichment, and economic development
arts -based projects that would not take place without sustained or increased funding from Iowa's
legislative appropriation to its state arts agency.
We take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank IDCA for serving as a key resource for local arts
agencies, organizations, and artists across the state throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. They have
provided prompt and thoughtful support of the sector, efficiently creating one-time grant programs to
put CARES Act and American Rescue Plan funds to work on the ground in local communities.
REQUESTED ACTION
• Continue to regard and fund the arts and culture sector as an essential Iowa industry
attracting and retaining Iowa's workforce, inspiring business development, supporting
economically viable jobs, generating state and local government revenue, and as a
cornerstone of the state's tourism economy.
• Support and fund programs at or above FY22 levels through the Iowa Department of
Cultural Affairs (Iowa Arts Council, State Historical Society of Iowa, Produce Iowa, and
Humanities Iowa) to continue recognizing and promoting Iowa's cultural heritage as key in
COVID-19 recovery strategy for all Iowa communities.
• Provide funding for appropriate staffing levels at the Department of Cultural Affairs to
increase service and support of the arts and culture community throughout all parts of the
state.
• Explore and implement funding mechanisms to raise the ranking of Iowa from 44th in the
nation per capita through the state's arts agency as reported by the National Assembly of
State Arts Agencies Legislative appropriations including line items for Iowa are projected to
be reduced to 32 cents per capita representing a 30.7% decrease in funding, dropping
Iowa's ranking to 46th in the nation.
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16. SUSTAINABILITY & RESILIENCY
a. ENERGY EFFICIENCY & ALTERNATIVE ENERGY
Every year, the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy ranks states on their energy efficiency
policy and program efforts. Iowa's rank continues to slide nationally due to inaction. 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.
The Iowa Economic Development Authority and Iowa Department of Transportation developed the Iowa
Energy Plan, most recently updated in 2018. The plan, which the City of Dubuque has been engaged in
developing, focuses on energy as an economic development opportunity, Iowa's energy resources,
energy efficiency and conservation, and transportation and infrastructure.
However, the spending cap on utility demand -side investment now allows customers to opt out of
paying for programs that fail to pass the Ratepayer Impact Measure test. Utility filings show a drop in
savings of 25-50% for electric programs and 75-80% for gas programs (Source: American Council for an
Energy -Efficient Economy). The impact of these cuts is felt in Dubuque, with decreased funding for the
Green Iowa AmeriCorps program. The decreased funding for rebates and other efficiency programs
continues to be felt by our residents and businesses.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City strongly advocates for implementation of the recommendations of the Iowa Energy
Plan, specifically as they relate to energy efficiency and opportunities to support the
development of renewable energy resources in the state. The City is represented in the
Dubuque County Energy District and will work collaboratively with energy districts across
the state to provide leadership and technical assistance to advance efficiency and
renewable work.
Successful energy efficiency incentive programs should be continued and increased, and
Iowa 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) provide energy efficiency assistance, especially to low-
income families, 2) remove barriers to widespread decentralized renewable energy use, 3)
stabilize renewable energy incentives, and 4) protect net metering and third -party power
purchase agreements and support other opportunities to make renewable energy more
cost-effective and accessible.
• The City supports removal of code language that prevents cities from adopting a stricter
energy code and encourages the state to adopt the 2021 IECC energy code as well as the
International Green Construction Code (IGCC). In addition, the City supports adopting all
building codes one year after issued by the ICC, which impacts water usage, EV charging
infrastructure, HVAC, and other resources.
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• The City supports state legislation to permit Property Assessed Clean Energy, or PACE, in
Iowa. PACE financing offers an innovative way for property owners to pay for energy
efficiency upgrades with strong ROls that create jobs for Iowans. PACE programs can now
be used in over 37 states and has provided millions of dollars to improve buildings 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 ROls and
promote equitable sharing of costs and savings among current and future owners and
tenants. In addition, the state should offer tax credits from building above the adopted
energy code (such as PHIUS, DOE Net Zero, etc.) and offer tax credits for efficiency upgrades
to low-income occupied homes and rental units.
• The City recognizes that buildings make up the majority of our resource usage and supports
making all buildings be Watersense-certified and proposes an energy -use disclosure at sale
or lease of all structures.
The City supports the Iowa 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. Support
policies that incentivize electric vehicles (EVs) and allow for development of electric vehicle
charging infrastructure. Additionally, the State needs to include Dubuque's highways (20
and 151) as qualified corridors in the Iowa Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment Plan.
Without this designation, Dubuque is not eligible for funding to advance our EV
infrastructure.
Iowa is one of the national leaders in renewable energy. While traditionally this has focused
on wind energy, the solar industry has been growing. In 2021, solar jobs in Iowa increased
20%. Iowa's renewable energy record is a selling point in business recruiting and the tax
credit spurred a lot of investment in communities across the state. The state needs to
reinstate the Iowa Solar Tax Credit and increase the allotment to $10 million annually.
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17. PUBLIC HEALTH
a. PUBLIC HEALTH FUNDING
IARPA and CARES money is one-time and specifically for COVID relief. Local public health agencies
(LPHAs) need dedicated, reliable, and flexible funding to deliver on their CHNA/HIPS and address the
knock -on "social morbidities" of COVID that will be seen for years if not generations to come.
For the past 20 years, local public health agencies have been creating, refining, updating, and adding
Public Health Emergency Preparedness Response Plans (PHEPRP.) Before and soon after the 9/11
attacks, local public health followed the national initiative of preparing for biological, chemical,
radiological, weather, and other public health related disasters and emergencies. Simultaneously, we
experienced more and more newly emerging infectious diseases, including HIV/AIDS, resistant TB,
MRSA, West Nile, Ebola, Zika, cyclospora, E.Coli 0157:H7, SARS, MERS, H1N1 influenza, Toxic Shock
Syndrome and others. These along with re-emerging outbreaks of diseases we thought we'd conquered
such as mumps, measles and whooping cough continue to persist along with outbreaks from new
sources or ways of spread from pathogens such as cryptosporidia, giardia, salmonella, shigella, and
Hantavirus. Congress responded to most of these with limited term, disease specific and preparedness
planning funding to states, who in turn funded local health departments and public health agencies
through grant processes. As the outbreaks subsided and healthcare learned to treat the infectious
diseases the funding was reallocated to other priorities or cut entirely. This reactionary, short term
public health funding does not create a system or public health agencies are ready to respond to
epidemics and pandemics, climate and weather -related emergencies etc. in a timely and effective
manner.
Public health requires ongoing funding, education, and resources to prepare for and respond to public
health emergencies, including those that happen at the state, local, federal and world levels. Effective
public health services depend on sustained and flexible funding that can be used to respond to
community needs.
REQUESTED ACTION
Increase and protect funding for vital public health agencies and programs and strengthen the
nation's public health infrastructure.
b. BRAIN HEALTH
The 2017 Iowa 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 brain health, disability, and substance abuse disorder needs,
particularly for individuals with complex brain health, disability, and substance use disorder needs."
The Complex Service Needs Workgroup recommends expanding and improving Iowa's brain 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 Iowa.
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 brain health issues, from mild to serious
diagnoses. The recommendations also provide the opportunity for the regions to collaborate certain
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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 Iowa's brain 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 Iowa and supports the following
legislative action:
• Require brain health and disability services (MHDS) regions to establish, implement, and
maintain services in partnership with managed care organizations (MCOs) in strategic
locations throughout Iowa.
• Direct the Department to establish a single set of provider qualifications and access
standards that are used for Chapter 24 accreditation, Iowa 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 Iowans in the most efficient manner possible.
• Eliminate the Iowa code that limits the number of sub -acute care facility beds.
• Establish brain health specialty courts in statute for each judicial district, funded with
standing appropriations to the Judicial Branch and Department of Corrections.
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.
c. CHILDREN'S BRAIN HEALTH PRIORITIES
Citizen input describing the experience of navigating the brain health resources for children in Iowa
describe a system that is fraught with challenges. These challenges frequently preclude successful
outcomes.
Children's' brain health protocols need to be tailored and age appropriate and not modeled after adult
systems. Barriers to care, lack of services, scarcity of providers, and lack of professional services in
schools and day care all mitigate against good brain health solutions.
The Children's Behavioral Health Systems state board identified the following priorities:
Ensure stable and adequate funding of the children's system.
Continue service growth to all areas of the state including but not limited to core and core plus
services.
• Address challenges impacting the behavioral health workforce, including implementing
strategies to enhance the current behavioral health workforce.
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• Implement universal behavioral health screenings with informed consent by children's parent or
guardian.
• Continue to develop and implement statewide data collection pertaining to children with a
serious emotional disturbance.
• Provide funding to eliminate the children's mental health waiver waitlist.
• Conduct statewide resource mapping for children's services.
• Explore and correct gaps in services.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support the legislative priorities of the Children's Behavioral Health Systems state board.
d. COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS
Iowa's Community Health Centers (CHCs) have 49% of their patients covered by Medicaid, 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 Iowa Medicaid reimbursement policy does not allow CHCs to be reimbursed for more than one
visit if they occur on the same day.
e. ACCESS TO HIGH QUALITY, AFFORDABLE HEALTH CARE
With continuing issues related to the sustainability of the Health Insurance Marketplace in Iowa and the
proposals to replace or improve the Affordable Care Act, any changes need to ensure vulnerable and
low-income Iowans can access high quality, affordable health insurance, including Iowa's Medicaid
expansion program and other safeguards to maintain our historically low insurance rates.
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.
• Maintain the integrity of the 340B pharmacy program with complimentary legislation to the
Federal legislation. Address discriminatory contracting, aka, "pickpocketing from Pharmacy
Benefit Managers (PBMs) Medicaid will continue to be carved out due to agreement with
Iowa Medicaid/HHS
• Secure capital expenditures to expand services/medical, oral, behavioral, and pharmacy) at
existing health centers to ensure comprehensive, integrated primary care is available to all
Iowans, improve technology, expand physical locations, and to remain viable employers and
produce economic activity in underserved communities.
• Audio only telehealth is temporarily allowed under Public Health Emergency- a more
permanent solution is necessary because patients still cannot afford or can't always access
broadband, or they do not have the devices or ability for full video. Medical commercial
parity for telehealth for behavioral health services under commercial insurance was passed
last year.
f. RECRUIT & 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.
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REQUESTED ACTION
Support Iowa community health center's workforce to address shortages throughout the state,
including investments in recruitment and retention strategies, training, and loan repayment
with a focus on dentists, dental assistants, medical assistants, nurse, hygienists, and other
support staff.
g. 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 Iowa. Last year in Dubuque, we had nine opioid-related overdose deaths, and three
have occurred already this year. Other communities in Iowa 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, and harm reduction strategies.
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 566 community and health
professionals, along with 187 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 and country.
REQUESTED ACTION
• Establish drug specialty courts in statute for each judicial district, funded with standing
appropriations to the Judicial Branch and Department of Corrections.
• Maintain coverage for vulnerable populations and ensure immediate health benefit
coverage to Medicaid and insurance -eligible offenders when released from incarceration,
including coverage of naltrexone prescriptions for addicted offenders.
• Create a new public long-term treatment facility for dual diagnosis patients.
• Direct the Department of Human Services and Iowa Insurance Division to assemble a
comprehensive report containing the following elements:
• Coverage and payment policies for diagnosis and treatment of substance use disorders by
insurance companies,
• Management care organizations and third -party administrators on behalf of self -funded
plans.
• Aggregate utilization data by county on the number of people treated, services provided,
costs incurred, and payments made.
• Prospects/research on the success of abuse -deterrent opioid pharmaceuticals.
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• Explore and pilot the use of research -based harm -reduction strategies such as needle
exchange programs while providing education to law enforcement, the community, and
healthcare providers.
Peer to Peer support. Recognize and support the importance of informal, peer supports
such as narcotics anonymous, I Hate Heroine, CRUSH etc. This includes expanding
education, increasing inclusivity and financial supports needed to expand reach and efforts.
h. 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 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
Change Iowa Code Section 364.12 (h) to allow mailing via regular mail.
i. CHILDHOOD LEAD POISONING
Childhood lead poisoning is endemic to Iowa. Of Iowa 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 Iowa General Assembly passed a law requiring all children to have proof of a
blood lead test prior to entering kindergarten.
Further complicating Iowan's ability to help their children, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
eliminated a $594,000.00 grant which the Iowa 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 Iowa 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.
j. HEALTHY LOCAL FOODS
A decade ago, 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 Healthy Local Foods principle of Dubuque's sustainability model aims to provide
benefits of wholesome food from local producers, distributors, farms, gardens, and hunters to all. The
City and its partners engaged in the Healthy Local Foods initiative have participated in the forming of the
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Local Food & Farm Plan. In order for local institutions and consumers to 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.
REQUESTED ACTION
• Support and help facilitate food donation and food rescue programs.
• Promote and facilitate grocery store investment in food deserts.
• Facilitate and fund Farm to School and Farm to Institution health food initiatives.
• Incentivize regenerative soil management practices for agriculture, school and community
gardens to protect Iowa's major industry and environmentally sensitive areas.
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Dubuque County
Board of Supervisors
DUBUQUE LEGISLATIVE DINNER
Wednesday, November 30, 2022
Remarks by Supervisor Harley Pothoff
Ann McDonough
ann. mcd onough@dubuquec ountyiowa.gov
Harley Pothoff
harley.pothof f@dubuquecountyiowa.gov
Jay Wickham
jay.Mckham@)dubuquecountyiowa.gov
Dubuque County is a member of the Iowa State Association of Counties and the Urban County
Coalition, made up of 5 Eastern Iowa metro counties.
We have Great Things Going on at Dubuque County
• Great work on our Watershed and soil conservation initiatives, much of it in
collaboration with the City of Dubuque and other communities, and getting attention
across the Midwest.
• We have new elected leaders coming on board, in Supervisor Wayne Kenniker,
Treasurer Mike Clasen, and Attorney Scott Nelson.
• We are also excited with our new Human Resources director, Chelsea Green, and new
Health Director, Allie White coming on board in December.
• The County is also amping up its game when make new hires within our ranks, helping
us to serve the public better and preparing for the future.
• The County had its biggest road maintenance year after much planning. Preserving our
infrastructure and making it safer for farmers, rural residents, and commerce.
• The County has used a significant portion of its ARPA funding to stimulate new
community building projects around the County. Over 50 projects will help families in
need, improve education and cultural opportunities, and make Dubuque County a more
desirable place to live or visit. Some like the Field of Dreams, leveraged additional
funding from the Governor, putting a special focus on Dubuque County.
Local Option Sales Tax and IWLL (Iowa Water and Land Legacy Fund)
• Dubuque County is the first County in Iowa where local voters adopted the LOST in 1988
• 100% of Dubuque County's LOST revenue goes toward Roads Department for
maintenance of roads and bridges
• Dubuque County has one of the largest and most challenging road systems in Iowa, due
to the terrain and the needs of a large rural population. We have 800 miles of roads
with 470 paved miles. We also maintain 220 bridges.
• Our annual road budget is $14 million, and LOST is $4.5 million of that total. One-third
of our road maintenance budget is from LOST.
Dubuque County Courthouse • 720 Central Ave. • PO Box 5001 • Dubuque, Iowa 52004-5001
(563) 589-4441 • www.dubuquecounty.org
Dubuque Legislative Dinner, November 30, 2022
• Without the $4.5 million of local voter approved LOST revenue, Dubuque County roads
and bridges will deteriorate quickly. Maintenance will be delayed. Our residents will be
unsatisfied. The new federal infrastructure bill will not make up the difference.
• This is our concern with the 2022 Legislature's proposed capture of the locally
determined LOST and making it a State sales tax.
• Dubuque County is not interested in backfills — they don't last.
• Dubuque County is not interested in the State repurposing or reprioritizing LOST
revenue purposes that have been determined by local voters.
• Outdoor recreation and conservation is an important part of Dubuque County's
economy and quality of life. However, triggering IWLL while reducing existing programs
will not result in expanded or better maintained natural resources. It's a wash at best.
• Lets work together on other solutions.
Property Tax
• Dubuque County levies property taxes to meet the basic service needs of residents for
the best value. For the past 4+ years, Dubuque County Board of Supervisors have
annually decreased our levy rate.
• The Legislature caps certain areas of property tax, including for roads, which we have
maximized at the top allowable rate and cannot add more property tax.
• The County is appreciative of the Legislature taking Mental Health funding off of County
property tax and onto State funding. Dubuque County did reduce its tax asking in
response to this change, but the Legislature's elimination of the backfill complicated the
situation. Taxpayers still saw a reduction.
• If the Legislature wants to address local property tax reform, we hope it will be a holistic
look at all taxing entities not just cities and counties.
• We invite you as our legislators to work with County officials to understand how reform
proposals will impact Dubuque County services and residents. We stand ready to work
with our local legislators on solutions that help Iowa and Iowans thrive.
Mental Health Funding
Speaking of Mental Health Funding, we hope that the Legislature will allow mental
health regions to carry a fund balance of at least 10% for them to provide cash flow.
We also ask that the Legislature allow ambulances to transport people directly to Access
Centers in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City, and to be eligible for reimbursement from
Medicaid. Currently, its complicated for law enforcement and Medicaid doesn't pay.
My colleagues and I at Dubuque County thank you for being here tonight and being part
of the conversation that will move our great part of the state forward into the future.
Dubuque County Courthouse • 720 Central Ave. • PO Box 5001 • Dubuque, Iowa 52004-5001
(563) 589-4441 • www.dubuquecounty.org
•�• ' i•URBAN COUNTY
�i[• COALITION
2023 Legislative Priorities - FINAL
The Urban County Coalition is a coalition of the five largest counties in eastern Iowa. We
are committed to preserving local control and decision -making authority to give our
constituents the greatest control and accountability over their governments. We believe that
Thomas Jefferson was correct when he said, "The government closest to the people, serves
the people best."
Local Option Sales Tax and the Iowa Water and Land Legacy Fund: The current proposals to
activate the 3/8th of one cent sales tax to fund the Iowa Water and Land Legacy trust fund are not
the approach we support to fund the IWLL trust fund. Currently most jurisdictions across Iowa
have, by voter referendum, approved a local option sales tax. Approval of this tax has provided
local voters with an important revenue stream to fund initiatives ranging from property tax relief
to road spending. Current proposals to convert this to a statewide sales tax and impose the local
option sales tax in every jurisdiction is what has been proposed. This would trigger a constitutional
amendment and require the allocation of 3/8th of a cent to the Iowa Water and Land Legacy trust
fund (IWLL). While the Urban County Coalition has historically supported funding the Iowa
Water and Land Legacy fund, the method proposed is not what we believe Iowans voted for when
this passed more than a decade ago.
Our first concern is that voters across Iowa who have voted to utilize the local option sales tax
have approved revenue purpose statements (RPS). Those that may have a RPS that expire or may
have reauthorized the LOST and the new RPS does not take effect until after January 1, 2023, will
have their RPS voided and be required to either adopt a new RPS by city or county resolution, or
spend the revenue in accordance with a state formula. In our opinion, this shows a clear disregard
for the will of the voters who have voted to pay a tax to accomplish locally vital initiatives. Current
proposals also sunset this provision in 2035 after which no jurisdiction will have the authority to
take a LOST proposal to a vote, denying voters the opportunity to determine whether they want to
choose to undertake large community projects or provide property tax relief, or increase spending
on road projects.
This approach would also leave a shortfall in the sales tax pool that would have to be "backfilled"
with state general funds. We are not confident that any backfill on monies going to local
governments would continue for very long. Any such commitment to local government has a shelf
life of two years until the next election when future General Assemblies can "not -withstand" the
commitment for other statewide priorities. Future General Assemblies are not bound by
commitments of previous General Assemblies.
Property Taxes: Local governments are focused on making sure that our constituents get the
services they demand for the best value. We are happy to engage in discussions on how to
efficiently manage tax dollars while maintaining services taxpayers expect. Issues like unfunded
mandates and user fees that have not kept pace with actual costs, and therefore must be
supplemented with property tax dollars, make this a complicated discussion. In addition, we
encourage the legislature to remember that the elimination of the mental health levy was offset by
the elimination of the backfill from the commercial property tax reduction. We also believe this
discussion should include a recognition that local governments are largely entirely reliant on
property taxes to fund the services our constituents expect. We do believe that any discussions
of real reform of property taxes in Iowa must be holistic in nature and must include
reviewing all taxing entities and not just cities and counties.
Mental Health Funding: We appreciate that the Legislature has taken a major step toward
sustainable funding for both the children and adult mental health systems. We would encourage
them to make sure that they keep in mind several challenges that remain and continue to follow
the process outlined in SF 619 when the State assumed mental health funding:
• Workforce continues to be a significant challenge for service providers. We appreciate the
legislature's allocation of $14 million for HCBC waiver providers, but we believe that
Medicaid rates will continue to present providers with difficulties in recruiting and
retaining an adequate workforce and should be examined to determine if those rates reflect
current employee recruitment challenges faced by providers.
• Now that there are several Access Centers open across the state, we would encourage the
legislature to allow ambulances to transport people directly to access centers and be eligible
for reimbursement from Medicaid.
• Allow regions to maintain a fund balance that is adequate (10%) to make sure payments to
providers are made on time.
• Allowing access centers to bill for treating substance abuse cases that come from outside
of the county.
Unfunded and Underfunded Mandates: We encourage the Legislature to act to reduce the
instances of cost shifting identified below to eliminate the burdens they place on property
taxpayers. The two areas that have the largest impact on local property taxes are colocation of state
offices (DHS) and courthouse maintenance and security. We would encourage the General
Assembly to conduct an interim study to update its study done a decade ago. Those two issues
(Coloration and Security Expenses) are detailed below.
There are others as well that are delineated on the following page.
• Housing State Offices at Local Taxpayer Expense — Currently urban counties are forced
to house a variety of state agencies (DHS and the Courts, for example) and receive little or
no reimbursement from the State. In addition, counties are forced to pay for expenses such
as postage and office supplies and equipment at local property taxpayer's expense. We
request that the State no longer require that counties subsidize the local office expenses of
state agencies. We would encourage the Legislature to pay particular attention to the
document storage requirements of the Iowa Department of Human Services.
• Courthouse Security and Expenses - Like the housing of state agencies, local property
taxpayers are bearing the entire burden of upgrading, modifying, or even replacing aging
courthouses. There is a court expense added to virtually every criminal or civil action but
none of this money goes to pay actual courthouse expenses. There needs to be an update
of the 1984 compromise when the state absorbed the court system from county
governments but left the expenses of the court system on local property taxpayers. With the
advent of the 9-1-1 requirements on local government plus the need for security for the
court system two decades ago, the state needs to share in these costs. We request the state
allocate a portion of these funds to counties for courthouse maintenance and security. This
is also an area where the state imposes costs on local governments by not moving the
agencies to a paperless document storage program like it has other state agencies.
Publishing Costs — Reduce publishing costs to local governments for
publishing meeting and legal notices on-line and require only a summary to be published
in local print outlets. Additionally, allow counties to publish in only one local newspaper.
We would also encourage the Legislature to provide a clearer definition of proceedings
(for example, does proceedings mean the entire verbatim transcript of the meeting or does
it mean a summary transcript of the meeting). At one time, when there were many local
newspapers with circulation throughout the county, it might have made sense to require
multiple outlets for official documents. But now with the loss of many smaller
newspapers, consolidation of existing ones with larger circulation and many being
owned by out of state newspaper corporations, it makes sense to reduce the number of
outlets required for public notices.
Paper Document Storage - We request that the State make significant investments in the
courts system and the Department of Human Services to increase their document
digitization efforts and review all state requirements that deal with the retention of
documents.
Public Service Fees - The Legislature needs to help local governments fmd a mechanism
that makes fees more accurately reflect the cost of providing the services. Last year, the
Legislature agreed to raise the fee for food inspection services but there are others that are
currently still subsidized by property taxpayers. For example, the medical examiners fee
for cremation permits has been set at $75, to reflect the cost of that service; the fee should
be adjusted to at least $100 (The actual cost of providing these permits can be as high as
$150).
EMS Services - We appreciate that the Legislature provided a mechanism for local
authorities to help fund these services, but the State has still provided zero funding. We
believe that now that local taxpayers and the federal government have "skin in the game;"
the State needs to provide a program whereby local funds can be matched by state funds to
provide these services. This program is too vital to the life and health of Iowans to remain
an unfunded mandate.
Medicaid reimbursement to county -owned facilities: Counties that still have county
hospitals are not receiving the state set rate for RCF services. The MCO's are paying the
lower negotiated rate (80%). The counties in the UCC that are providing these services did
not negotiate this lower rate and in the absence of a negotiated rate the MCO's should be
required to pay the state negotiated rate. The current system of managed care has failed,
and the Legislature must address the issue by finding other sustainable options.
Funding Place Making programs: We applaud the Governor for allocating $100 million for
Place Making projects in her Destination Iowa program. We believe that this is a critical
recognition that the workforce shortage problem will take a multifaceted approach to attracting
and retaining talent to Iowa. We encourage the Legislature to continue to leverage the significant
community investments being made and better fund the several programs (Community Attraction
and Tourism program, Enhance Iowa, Great Places, Downtown Revitalization Fund) Iowa
currently has in place to encourage local communities to improve and expand quality of life
investments in Iowa.
County Bonding: The UCC appreciates the Legislature adding the ability to make disaster
recovery and mitigation an essential county purpose. We believe that in matters of public finance,
counties should be treated in the same manner as cities. The UCC supports allowing counties the
same flexibility in bonding for certain projects that the cities currently are allowed. We also ask
that the limit be raised to a consistent level with cities, currently $5 million. In addition, the
definitions of essential county purposes have not been updated to address new challenges faced by
counties. We ask that the following category be added to essential county purposes: Courthouse
Improvements and Upgrades. In addition, we request the Legislature consider allowing counties
to establish a fund to address the rapid deterioration of our rural roads where funds can be
earmarked for infrastructure adversely affected by rainfall, flooding, and other weather events.
With the increased costs of construction materials and the increase in the amount of precipitation
being experienced in recent years, it is not possible to keep up with maintenance of rural gravel
roads and small bridges with the current funding systems. Cities currently have the authority to
establish a capital improvement fund for projects like these on a pay as you go basis. Counties
need to have a similar authority to make sure that when large expenditures are necessary, strategies
can be developed to minimize the effect on taxpayers.
Additional Issues
Eminent Domain: We believe that the use of eminent domain should be reserved for public
entities and only for projects with a demonstrable public good.
Iowa Public Employees Retirement System: Iowa has one of the most solvent and well -funded
public retirement systems in the United States. It has maintained that status with conservative
investment policies and conservative growth projection. IPERS is an important and effective
recruiting tool to help government agencies attract talented workers. We encourage the Legislature
to carefully consider the long-term implications to that viability before any changes are made to
the current system. Additionally, we would request that the State remove the increases in IPERS
contributions from the growth limitations outlined in the 2019 Property Tax Reform Bill. Local
governments have no control over this and to make it subject to the growth limitations is a burden
to local governments.
Water Quality: We support the funding of the Iowa Water and Land Legacy fund established by
constitutional amendment as passed by two thirds of Iowa voters. The UCC would be opposed to
any efforts to change the formula to anything other than that which was overwhelmingly approved
by voters. We would also ask the Legislature to look closely at local partnerships that have been
established and are having a positive effect. These efforts, including watershed management
authorities, should be given the resources they need to make sure the work they are doing can
continue.
Dangerous Drug Use: The UCC encourages the General Assembly to continue to seek additional
measures that mitigate and curb the abuse of opioids and other injection -drugs. We appreciate the
action the Legislature took to enhance the Iowa Prescription Management Program, a key part of
any strategy employed to reduce the abuse of prescription drugs. O ioid-related deaths in Iowa are
down, the use of opioids and the abuse of prescription drugs still impacts Iowa families. In
addition, we urge the Legislature to work with law enforcement and public health groups to make
sure that Iowa's drug paraphernalia laws are compatible with best practices with regards to
evidence -based harm reduction strategies. One example is that fentanyl test strips can be an
important tool in harm reduction strategies and should not be considered drug paraphernalia. The
UCC also continues to encourage the Legislature to fund the drug courts.
Tax Credits: Tax credits play a major role in rebuilding communities. While we understand that
these programs should be used judiciously, we believe that the current tax credit programs work
(such as the Historic Tax Credit, the Endow Iowa Tax Credit, and the Renewable Energy Tax
Credit). Any policy that proposes to change the way these credits currently work should be
carefully balanced against the economic/tourism value if implemented.
Tax Increment Financing: We understand that this is an important tool (and one of the few) left
to local governments to encourage economic development. We request that the Legislature treat
county governments in a similar manner to school districts -- namely consider a mechanism to
replace revenue lost from TIF districts when they are established in counties. Should changes be
considered, we ask that the Legislature make counties more active partners in the use of TIFs.
Payment in Lieu of Taxes: We request that the State consider clarifying the statute governing
PILT and make it mandatory that when PILT agreement is reached that the payment is distributed
among all the taxing jurisdictions based on the levy structure in place at the time of the agreement.
REAP: We encourage the Legislature and the Governor to continue the program and fully fund
the program at the $20 million level. By not adequately funding the REAP program, the Legislature
is forcing local communities to look towards conservation bonding, with its property tax
implications, as well as other avenues to fund projects already supported by voters.
Emergency Management Agency Funding: The current funding formula does not adequately
address the needs of the urban counties in Iowa. The UCC encourages the Legislature to eliminate
the funding cap on urban counties. We also encourage the State to pass through 80 percent of the
federal funding it receives to counties.
Early Voting: The UCC requests that the Legislature reinstate the ability to conduct elections to
the locally elected officials who by law are empowered to conduct elections. Many of the changes
recently enacted by the General Assembly have made it more difficult for both the voters to cast
votes, and more difficult for local officials who are charged to conduct elections by state law.
Manufactured Housing Communities: Manufactured and mobile home communities are critical
to the affordable housing infrastructure in rural Iowa. Counties have seen a dramatic increase in
the purchase of these communities by out-of-state companies. While we appreciate the legislature
beginning to address this problem recently, we believe that the state should continue its work to
make sure that residents of manufactured housing communities enjoy similar protections to those
offered by Iowa's landlord/tenant laws.
Alternative Project Delivery: We believe that the Iowa General Assembly should consider
allowing alternative methods of project delivery when it is the best interest of the property taxpayer
to do so.
Wage Theft: Wage theft continues to be a problem in Iowa and is exacerbated by having only two
investigators for the entire state. The lack of investigators results in delays of investigations and
correcting the issues. As a result, the affected workers become reliant on county and state general
assistance programs. In addition, a loss of withholding tax revenues at the state and federal levels,
as well as the weakening of the ability of families to support themselves occurs. We ask that the
State hire more wage claim investigators to enforce the wage theft laws and eliminate the $6,500
cap on wage claims.
The strength of the Dubuque
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It is important to fund Iowa's public schools at a level sufficient to deliver the quality education all
Iowa students deserve and need to be successful.
Adequate funding positions public schools to respond to needs deepened by the pandemic, do
better for our most at -risk students, provide supports and enhancements for special education and
gifted students, provide more individualized attention and build better relationships via smaller
class sizes, provide a more diverse multilingual workforce, and hire and competitively compensate
the dedicated teaching and support staff who nurture and challenge today's students, tomorrow's
leaders.
Iowans expect top-notch public schools with many programming choices for students. The funding
level should demonstrate Iowa citizens' recognition that preK-12 education drives family decisions
for where to live, where to work and where to go to school in every community. Our high -quality
public schools in Iowa provide our business community with a key recruitment and economic
development tool.
Iowa's funding formula includes meaningful and significant categorical funds which support
teachers, school improvement and students. Adequate and timely supplemental state aid, at least
meeting the inflation rate, is needed to deliver and sustain world -class educational opportunities
for students. Funding should be set predictably, timely, sustainably and equitably. Continued
progress on inequity within the funding formula is important. Districts must have adequate
funding to address growing inflation and teacher and other staff shortages in Iowa's competitive
employment economy.
STUDENT OPPORTUNITY EQUITY
Many Iowa students start school behind their peers, some by several grade levels. Iowa's funding
formula should include targeted funding based on the actual costs of closing achievement gaps for
at -risk students living in poverty.
Iowa's preschool program, initiated with strong support from the business community nearly a
decade ago, should generate 1.0 weighting for full -day programming (rather than the current .5),
including wrap -around services and childcare for low-income or non-English speaking four -year -
old students.
Such funding delivers a proven return on investment for both student achievement and taxpayers,
while also freeing up childcare slots for younger children and allowing parents to fully participate in
full-time employment. Increased weighting to provide services for Iowa's English -language learners,
low-income and at -risk students will close learning gaps while building a strong workforce.
O EDUCATION SAVINGS ACCOUNTS (ESAs) and SCHOOL CHOICE
Iowa already has significant school choice in its public schools and the Dubuque Community
School District opposes the creation or expansion of programs/plans that redirect or designate
additional taxpayer funds for private school, homeschooling or other private services, regardless
of whether those funds are provided indirectly through education savings accounts or directly
through appropriations or tax credits.
Investments in education savings accounts, voucher programs, school tuition organizations or
homeschool not only remove resources from public schools, but they also lack accountability for
expenditures, requirements to educate all children or provide special education services, and are
hidden from the public oversight that should come with tax dollars.
Urban school leaders, looking ahead to the implementation of the 2022 historic tax cuts, anticipate
the inability of the state to adequately fund public schools, let alone, take on the commitment to
fund a second educational delivery system.
TEACHER, ADMINISTRATOR and STAFF SHORTAGE
0 Adequate funding is essential for public schools to compete with the private sector in hiring new
and retaining experienced employees. Recent steps to simplify licensure reciprocity with other
states and eliminate IPERS barriers to rehiring retirees are welcome relief, but insufficient to
eliminate staff shortages urban schools experience today.
New policies should be implemented to help schools meet the challenge of attracting and
retaining tomorrow's educators and recruiting teachers that mirror our diverse students.
This includes flexibility in certification requirements such as a K-12 special education credential,
minimizing barriers for educators with international experience to teach in our schools, additional
teacher intern programs that include adequate pedagogy/on-the-job classroom exposure, and
continued support for grow -your -own programs, para and teacher apprenticeships, tuition support
and loan forgiveness programs.
MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
Iowa must fund services, eliminate barriers, and clarify funding sources and responsibilities,
including critical partnerships and wrap -around services.
Iowa needs an improved mental health system for children, including the structure and funding to
eliminate the shortage of professionals. Schools should be partners to serve students and families,
but educators are not trained providers of mental health care, nor do they have the capacity to
meet the mental health needs of students. Schools should not be mandated to screen for mental
health needs or provide mental services without adequate funding to do so.
Iowa should engage in every opportunity to maximize school access to Medicaid claiming for health
services for all students, not just students with individual education plans. Funds to provide case
management and service coordination are required when Medicaid, special education or other
categorical funds do not cover it.
AADISTRICT AUTHORITY
.We continue to believe that School Boards are responsible and best suited to make decisions on
behalf of their students, staff and communities to meet the goals of their district.
In particular, we support flexibility to use general fund dollars to pay for expanded preschool
slots and flexibility to use management fund dollars to cover safety and security costs, including
security personnel and cyber security measures (both of these most certainly qualify as risk
management and litigation cost avoidance, which are current goals of the management fund).
Lbr❑Zb3 CYBER SECURITY
Cyber criminals pose a malicious threat to the instructional delivery and operation of school
districts. When school districts are the target of nefarious attacks, students, families and
communities are most impacted. The Dubuque Community School District supports coordination of
efforts at the state level to support school districts' cyber security needs by creating a consortium
that curates, vets and establishes professional services and supports from which school districts
may elect to use or purchase for cybersecurity needs.
To the maximum extent possible, the consortium should create options and preserve the local
decision -making authority of school boards and districts in choosing services and supports needed
for their community school. School districts should be able to expense cybersecurity systems,
services, improvements, and training from the management fund, the state penny for school
infrastructure (SAVE) fund and the physical plant and equipment levy, including the costs of
cybersecurity staff.
Dubuque
COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
2300 Chaney Road I Dubuque, Iowa 52001-3059 1 563/552-3000 1 www.dbgschools.org
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DUBUQUE AREA CHAMBER
STATE PRIORITIES
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TABLE OF CONTENP
2 The Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce
3 Business Advocacy Council
5 Statements of Core Values
7 State Workforce
9 State Economic Development
11 State Reducing Regulations and Taxes
DUBUQUE AREA Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce
300 Main Street, Suite 200
CHAMBER 563.5g57 9 00 52001
■ 1. DUBUQUECHAMBER.COM
THE UUBUQUE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMFRr.F
The Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce is the leading voice for business
and industry in the tri-state region. With more than 1,000 member businesses
we represent a significant portion of employers and employees in the region.
Our mission: To Build Member Success By Creating A Pro -Business Future is
a key consideration in each and every one of the legislative priorities laid out
in this agenda.
The 2023 Legislative agenda was created through a rigorous process that began
in August of 2022. Six industry -specific meetings engaged nearly 100 businesses
from across our membership, from one -person shops to the largest employers in
our community. At the same time, the Chamber revamped its Business
Advocacy Council with a host of new members representing those six
industry categories we engaged back in August. This group then analyzed
each policy position over the course of October and November, ensuring
that broad agreement was reached.
The document before you is a result of hours of research, member engagement,
and planning culminating a comprehensive and aggressive agenda for the
year ahead.
We are honored to work alongside our elected leaders in congress, at the
state capitol, and in our local city halls. We look forward to working with you
to create a pro -business future in the tri-state region.
2. DUBUQUECHAMBER.COM
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WHAT '� THE BAC?
The Business Advocacy Council is the Chamber's policy advisory
committee, and action committee. The group is made up of a
broad spectrum of leaders throughout the business community,
representing a diverse cross section of our membership.
We are proud to work with these community leaders to create
a pro -business future for Dubuque businesses.
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Chad Wolbers Molly Grover Ryan Sempf
Unity Point Health - Finley Dubuque Area Chamber of Dubuque Area Chamber of
Commerce Commerce
RESTAURANTS & HOSPITALITY MANUFACTURING & LOGISTICS FINANCE, INSURANCE, AND LAW
Lidia Bertolini Dwight Hopfauf OPEN FOR Mason Hullermann Michael Clasen Paul Kronlage
Mario, Restaurant H,tllulien Dubuque APPLICATION Tucker Freight Lines Dubuque Bank&Trust First Community Trust
SMALL BUSINESS, RETAIL,
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Kelly Heysinger Gina glean Cheryl Syke Steve Paris- Tara Duggan Alanda Gregory Shane Cravens
Unified Therapy Services Unified Therapy Services Medical Associates Clinic& Seek &Rae Lumber Co. McDermott Excavating Tri-Phoenix Group Ju,mba Dil Company
Health Plans
Andrew Dodson
Heritage Works
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Jim Holz
MSA Professional Services
AT -LARGE
Jeff Hefei Rob Reinert Brock Renbarger
Ruhl&Ruhr Realtors Northwestern Mutual MidWestOne Bank
Margee Woywood Todd Dalsing Danielle Peterson
Goodwill Industries of Dubuque Regional Airport United Wayof Dubuque Area
Northeast Iowa Inc Tri-states
EX-OFFICIOS
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Michael Cyze Dan McDonald Anderson Sainci Teri Goodmann Wendy Mihm-Herold Karla Thompson Danielle Jacobs
Dubuque Comarunity5hool Greater Dubuque Development City of Dubuque,offrceof Chyof Dubuque Northeast Iowa Dyersville Area Dubuque Main St.
District Corporation Shared Prosperity CommunityCollege Chambe-fCommerce
VALUES
5. DUBUQUECHAMBER.COM
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COP,eVALUES
Grow the Workforce
The Chamber supports efforts that promote the attraction and retention of work-
force, as well as upskilling to meet the current and future needs of Dubuque business.
Reduce Regulation and Taxes
The Chamber believes the best way to promote economic growth is to keep money in
the community and reduce red tape required to start and run a business. As such, the
Chamber supports efforts to lower taxes and reduce business regulation, in order to
foster a sense of innovation and entrepreneurship.
Promote Economic Growth
The Chamber believes all levels of government should encourage businesses and their
surrounding communities to grow and thrive including through the use of incentives,
in the form of funding or tax credits, to promote the growth of the Tri-State area.
Invest in the Community
The Chamber believes investments in infrastructure, recreation, public health, and
more are to key to maintaining a vibrant community for everyone and we support
such efforts.
Foster Global Trade and Commerce
In an ever more global economy, the Chamber recognizes the importance of
international trade to growing a business. We support policies that will reduce barriers
to the export of goods and services, and policies that promote local success on a
global scale.
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6. DUBUQUECHAMBER.COM
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WORKFORCE
Iowa's talent challenges are wide ranging, impacting roles requiring no education to
specialist medical providers and everything in-between. According to the Bureau of
Labor Statistics there were more than 113,000 job openings in Iowa in the fall of
2022. Recent reports on enrollment in Dubuque's higher education institutions and
labor force paint a similarly grim picture. All the data underscores the fact that
Iowa has not doubled its population since the early 1900's — we need more people,
and we don't have them.
The Iowa Chamber Alliance conducted their first annual talent poll in late 2021 and
found that quality of life is a driving factor on why people decide to stay — or not — in
Iowa. That survey found that Iowan's view the entertainment options available
in most Iowa communities to be sub -par, and a perception that services that are
nec-essary to help get people back into the workforce are hard to access — childcare
and housing stands out as particularly difficult to access.
On the following page we propose multiple actions the state can take to get
more Iowan's working, to attract more workers to our great state, and retain
them once they get here.
F71UECHAMBER.COM
Workforce
PRIORITIES IN DETAIL
Talent Development
Workforce training programs are key to ensuring Iowa has enough qualified workers to fill open positions. Adequate funding
for these programs may require additional resources to ensure Iowa is meeting its workforce needs. In particular, recent
reports on enrollment in Dubuque's higher education institutions have driven concern that much more needs to be done
to promote access to private higher education in Iowa — while continuing to support and promote the Regents universities
whose graduates make up a significant portion of employees in the Dubuque region. We must also look to adequately sup-
port our community colleges and K-12 institutions who ensure students at any age are ready to enter the workforce with
the skills necessary to succeed. We support the following actions:
Maintaining the $23 million allocation to the Future Ready Iowa Last Dollar Scholarship
Increase community college General Aid to $230,408,161 (+$8.75M from FY23); Increase funding for 260F program that supports
training for current employees; and continue supportfor 260E which assists in training new hires.
Increase funding for the Iowa Tuition Grant to keep pace with increasing costs of college, and increased resources for the Regents
Reducing Barriers to Employment
Barriers to employment are obstacles that make it more difficult for someone to enter the labor force. Housing and Child Care
in particular are areas where the State can positively impact labor force growth by promoting and funding solutions that
reduce these barriers. For instance, Dubuque remains around 1,200 units short on housing to meet the current need, making
it difficult for people at all skill and income levels to live where they work — how can we continue to promote housing
development particularly housing that is priced for Iowa and Dubuque's median income brackets, and lower quartile? Similarly,
childcare remains a costly disincentive to work for many families, particularly those at the lower end of the income
scale. When childcare costs more than the income individuals receive from employment it simply doesn't make sense for
some family members to return to work. Iowa has an opportunity to reduce these barriers to employment and increase the
labor force participation rate. The Chamber proposes the following solutions to that end.
' Increase housing development particularly housing that is affordable for median income earners and below.
Support the following actions on workforce related related incentives and programs:
• Continued investment in Workforce Housing Tax Credit Program
• Continued support for LIHTC
• Continued support for the Housing Trust Fund
• Improved funding and eligibility for Child Care Assistance (CCA)
• Increase reimbursement amount for CCA to better reflect the market rate for high quality childcare
• Increase eligibility for CCA by stepping down eligibility/eliminating the cliff effect
• Increase funding for WAGE$/T.E.A.C.H. to support those that provide early childhood care
Keep Iowa a Welcoming Place
Iowa is well known across the country as a welcoming place. We like to hang our hat on the idea of "Iowa Nice" and we all
take pride in our willingness to help a stranger on the side of the road, or welcome wind weary faces into our home on a cold,
blizzard night. We must take that approach when we think about public investment in amenities and services. The business
community believes strongly in promoting high quality of life for residents by investing in vibrant livable spaces. We also
believe in welcoming new residents to our state with open arms, and thoughtful incentives. In the competition for talent
Iowa has a chance to lead the country. In particular we endorse the following approaches:
Continue Destination Iowa with a longer -term commitment with yearly infusions of funding to support continued investment in
quality -of -life amenities across Iowa
We support the creation of a program that would incentivize individuals to move to Iowa, and graduates of Iowa's Community
Colleges and 4-year institutions from out of state to stay in Iowa.
We also believe it is incumbent on the business community to promote an accepting and welcoming nature for our state gov-
ernment. We must be cognizant of the negative impact that controversial legislation has on our ability to attract talent. We
must be welcoming to ALL.
8. DUBUQUECHAMBER.COM
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
The State of Iowa plays an integral role in growing the economy through investment and
incentives that pave the way for business expansion and relocation. These programs
show a positive return on investment and regardless of the exciting and important tax
cuts passed in 202Z credits and incentives are still necessary to drive robust growth
and development into the future. In addition to incentives, we believe it is imperative
the state continue to invest in infrastructure and consider innovative new approaches to
support culturally vibrant local economies across Iowa.
Economic Development
PRIORITIES IN DETAIL
Developing Cultural Vibrancy
State investment in placemaking is key to fostering a sense of growth and opportunity in communities large
and small. Destination Iowa has largely been seen as a success and has helped to fund projects like the Field
of Dreams in Dyersville, while the DRA (Formerly, Dubuque Racing Association) has submitted a grant appli-
cation to help fund the redevelopment of Chaplain Schmitt Island.
However, the quick turnaround time for applications on large projects with many moving parts has forced
some communities not to apply or submit less competitive applications. We believe a long-term, stable fund-
ing source for place making will deliver rewards for the state and have an immeasurable return on invest-
ment as we work to attract and retain talent while ensuring communities are able to adequately plan their
applications.
Develop and implement sustainable funding for Placemaking, which will allow communities to
adequately plan and apply for the program.
Air Service
Dubuque's loss of air service in September 2022 has had a significant impact on workforce attraction
and retention efforts and makes business more difficult for companies who do business across the a.
globe. Reduced access to air service means clients must travel more than an hour after landing at a _
surrounding airport to get to Dubuque, adding barriers to the success of deals, employment opportuni-
ties, and future business development. As the only airport in Iowa to have fully lost commercial service -
to an international hub (O'Hare), we ask that the state support effort to attract a new legacy carrier to
connect Dubuque residents and businesses to the global marketplace.
Secure state funding to support potential minimum revenue guarantee for a legacy carrier in Dubuque.
Protecting and Enhancing Development Incentives
-
Economic development incentives are crucial to getting a project from an idea to shovels in the
_
ground. These incentives are necessary for many projects to pencil out, particularly in the tri-state
region where we have many historic structures that require remediation in addition to any remod-
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eling. The Chamber supports maintaining, and where appropriate enhancing, the incentives for
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investment. Particularly after the 2022 tax changes saw a reduction in certain incentives — most
notably the Historic Tax Credit — we believe it is important to return key incentives to their former
level. We also support maintaining tax increment financing laws that have delivered robust return
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on investment and economic opportunity across the state by empowering local officials who are
46
intimately involved in project development.
Return Historic Tax Credit to its former level and promote other incentives including: High Quality Jobs Tax
Credit, Brownfield/Grayfield Program, Workforce Housing Tax Credit, Research Activities Credit.
-
We support the Tax Increment Financing program as it currently exists.
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10.OUB000ECHAMBER.COM
Fitia&
REGULATION
& TAX
Iowa businesses enjoy a largely positive tax and regulatory climate, thanks in no small
part to the 2022 tax bill signed by Governor Reynolds. Iowa businesses and residents will
now have more freedom and ability to invest back into training, employee retention, and
business expansion efforts while promoting Iowa as a great place to do business which
will assist in business attraction. Iowa businesses continue to support a light -touch reg-
ulatory approach with narrowly tailored regulation meant to support good corporate
stewards while ensuring bad business practices don't lead to a competitive advantage.
As we look to the coming session, our focus is on both implementation and changes to
certain tax items, and departmental/regulatory issues relating to transportation infra-
structure and torts
11. DUBUQUECHAMBER.COM
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Regulation &Tax
PRIORITIES IN DETAIL
Electric Vehicle Charging
' The Iowa DOT's map of planned investment in EV charging stations on major roadways has left the
Highway 20 and Highway 151 corridors to Dubuque off their map. Wisconsin has included the 151
corridor to Iowa's boarder in their proposal and we strongly encourage IDOT to consider amending
their current proposal to include Dubuque, Highway 151, and Highway 20 in their plans for future
investment in EV charging. As a major hub of tourism, Dubuque must have access to charging sta-
tions as carmakers transition their vehicles to non fossil fuel engines. Much of Dubuque's tourism
industry comes from communities within driving distance and charging will be a necessary amenity
that families look for when planning travel.
' Include Dubuque/ Highway 151/Highway 20 on EV Charging deployment map
�i Iowa's Water and Land Legacy
In 2010, 63 percent of Iowans voted to approve a constitutional amendment to create the Natural Re-
sources and Outdoor Recreation Trust Fund - a permanent and protected funding source dedicated to
improving the state's water quality, protecting, and conserving Iowa's productive farmland, expanding
natural areas including parks, trails, fish and wildlife habitat and providing recreation. The Chamber
believes it is time to fund and implement the will of Iowan's and continue to improve the quality -of -life
amenities that attract and retain top talent across Iowa. As a Mississippi River region, it is of heightened
importance for our community to see Iowa's Water & Land Legacy funded.
The Chamber supports implementation of (WILL
Property Tax
The Chamber strongly believes in the importance of local control to make decisions about investments in
roads, water and wastewater infrastructure, staffing, and economic development. We also believe in the
need for a business friendly tax code at all levels of government and are happy that Dubuque remains
the community with the lowest property tax rate among the twenty-five largest communities in Iowa
Maintain local control while supporting a business friendly tax climate that maintains state and municipal
government ability to meet and exceed expectations of citizens and businesses.
Tort Reform
The threat of crippling lawsuits has impacted risk management strategies for the trucking industry and
medical field over the past decade as jury awards for accidents and malpractice have skyrocketed. This
has resulted in soaring insurance rates for both industries.
Pass trucking tort reform that limits liability for this key industry in Iowa
Pass medical malpractice reform that reasonably limits liability for Iowa medical providers
12. DUBUQUECHAMBER.COM
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DUBUQUE AREA
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CHAMBER
WHERE BUSINESS BELONGS
4 DUBUQUE CITY COUNCIL
2024
BRAD M. CAVANAGH RIC W. JONES DAVID T. RESNICK SUSAN R. FARBER LAURA J. ROUSSELL
MAYOR AT -LARGE AT -LARGE 1ST WARD 2ND WARD
DANNY C. SPRANK
3RD WARD
Five Year Goals
2022-2027
KATY A. WETHAL
4TH WARD
Robust Local Economy:
Diverse Businesses and Jobs with Economic Prosperity
Vibrant Community:
Healthy & Safe
Livable Neighborhoods and Housing:
Great Place to Live
Financially Responsible, High —Performance City Organization:
Sustainable, Equitable, and Effective Service Delivery
Sustainable Environment:
Preserving and Enhancing Natural Resources
Partnership for a Better Dubuque:
Building Our Community that is Viable, Livable, and Equitable
Diverse Arts, Culture, Parks, and Recreation
Experiences and Activities
Connected Community:
Equitable Transportation, Technology Infrastructure, and Mobility
2036 Vision Statement
Dubuque 2036 is a sustainable and resilient city, an inclusive and equitable
community where ALL are welcome. Dubuque 2036 has preserved our
Masterpiece on the Mississippi, has a strong, diverse economy and
expanding connectivity. Our residents experience healthy living and active
lifestyles; have choices of quality, affordable, livable neighborhoods; have
an abundance of diverse, fun things to do; and are successfully and actively
engaged in the community.
Mission Statement
Dubuque city government is progressive and financially sound with
residents receiving value for their tax dollars and achieving goals through
partnerships. Dubuque city government's mission is to deliver excellent
municipal services that support urban living; contribute to an equitable,
sustainable city; plan for the community's future; and facilitate access to
critical human services.
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Policy Agenda
Policy agenda items are issues that need direction or a policy decision by the
City Council, or need a major funding decision by the City Council, or issues
that need City Council leadership in the community or with other governmental
bodies. The policy agenda is divided into top priorities and high priorities.
2022 - 2024 Top Priorities
(in alphabetical ord
Air Service Future Strategy • Action Plan
• Chaplain Schmitt Island Master Plan
Implementation
• City Workforce Retention and Attraction:
Direction and Funding
• Climate Action Plan Implementation
• Comprehensive Fire Stations Locations:
Study, Report, Direction, and Funding
• Street Program: Direction and Funding
Management in progress are
items that are underway and budgeted.
Staff is implementing and providing
updates to City Council.
Major projeCtS are projects that
are underway and budgeted. Staff is
implementing and providing updates to
City Council.
• Catfish Creek Sanitary Sewer Project: Debt
Policy Direction, Phasing, and Funding
• Central Avenue Revitalization Plan: Adoption,
Direction, and City Actions
• Five Flags: Options, Funding Mechanism,
Direction, and Next Steps
• Housing Incentive Policy: Review and
Direction
• Poverty Prevention and Reduction Plan
Implementation
• Sutton Pool Staffing and Operational Needs:
Future Direction and Funding
Robust Local Economy
Management in Progress
• Field of Dreams Stadium: Next Steps for City
• Industrial Park Development
a. West McFadden/Graf Site Infrastructure
b. Crossroads Industrial Park Infrastructure
• Minority-, Women-, Disabled-, and LGBT-Owned Business Enterprises
(MWDBE) Business Support (including diverse suppliers)
• MWDBE Procurement Policy, Process Revision and Recruitment
• River Cruise Infrastructure and Initial Cruise
(Continued on page 4)
Vibrant Community
Management in Progress
• 911 Center Accreditation
• Comprehensive Police Transparency Annual Report
• Emergency Communication Transfer to Dubuque County: Policy
Direction and City Actions
• Traffic and Security Cameras Deployment
• Equitable Fines and Fees Reform
• Fire Department Culture Action Plan
• Fire Department Recruitment and Staffing
• National Incident Management System (NIMS) Development and
Training: Mayor/City Council and Management Team Implementation
• Police Department Recruitment and Staffing
Livable Neighborhoods 8t Housing
Management in Progress
• Emerald Ash Borer Damage: Update Report & Funding
• Historic Millwork District: Next Steps
• Multicultural Family Center Youth Programs Expansion
• Neighborhood Associations Process/Guidelines: Development
• Unified Development Code Update
Major Projects
• Hendrick's Feed Site Parking Ramp
Financially -Responsible, High -
Performance City Organization
Management in Progress
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance Transition Report
• Cartegraph Operations Management Software System Asset
Management System
• City Facilities Security Short -Term Action Plan: Access Codes
• City Legislative Lobbying/Advocacy Agenda 2022
• City Plan and Performance Tracking Software and Reporting Tool
• Digital Signatures Policy
• Downtown City FaciIities/Workspace Analysis and Plan
• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Software Implementation
• Human Resources Modernization: Two Positions
• Organizational Culture Continuous Improvement
a. Performance Reviews
b. Exit Interviews
c. Consultant Services & Support
Major Projects
• Engine House Remodel Project
Sustainable Environment
Management in Progress
• Bee Branch Greenway Operations and Maintenance
• Bee Branch Basin Pump Replacement
• Lead and Copper Pipe Rule Compliance Water Sampling and Testing
• Pollinator Habitat in Park System
• Sewer System Infrastructure Asset Master Plan
• Water and Resource Recovery Center: Nutrient Trading
• Water Plant and Distribution Systems Condition Assessment/Master Plan
Major Projects
• Water Department Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)
System Overhaul
• Water Lines Extension — Southwest Arterial
Partnership for a Better Dubuque
Management in Progress
• AmeriCorps Support of Grade -Level Reading Initiative
• Boards/Commissions Recruitment Plan
• City Life Program Offered in Spanish
• Homeless Shelter for Men with Children: Construction Completion
Diverse Arts, Culture, Parks, and
Recreation Experiences and Activities
Management in Progress
• Arts and Culture Master Plan Implementation
• Arts Operating Grants Update Report
• Comprehensive Parks Master Plan
• Dubuque Renaissance BIPOC Arts Initiative
• Grand River Center Management Agreement
Major Projects
• Comiskey Park Upgrade Project: Phase 1 Construction
• Eagle Valley Subdivision Park: Construction
• English Ridge Subdivision Park: Construction
• Five Flags Short -Term Improvements: Roof and HVAC Stabilization
• Jackson Park Restrooms: Completion
Connected Community
Management in Progress
• Community Broadband Project: Fiber -to -the -Home
• New Buses: Delivery
• Traffic Signal Synchronization/STREETS Program
Major Projects
• East/West Corridor Capacity Improvements
a. University/Pennsylvania Roundabout: Design
b. University/Asbury Roundabout: Design
c. University/Loras Roundabout: Design
• JFK Road Sidewalks Project: Construction
• Julien Dubuque Bridge Fiber Duct Installation
• Northwest Arterial Upgrade (IDOT Partnership) Phase 2: Construction
• Southwest Arterial Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) Project
• US 151/Wisconsin Bridge Fiber Installation
THE CjiQbE
D
Masterpiece on the Mississippi
Creating an Equitable
Community (and Organization
of Choice
AHigh-Performance Organization (and Community) with
Engaged Employees and Residents that is Data -Driven and
Outcome -Focused built on the four pillars of:
Through
BiI People
0
THE CITY OF Dubuque
MI
DUB E rIII`
zoo��zoizxzai3
Masterpiece on the Mississippi 2017+2019
GUIDING PRINCIPLES OF THE
MANAGEMENT PHILOSOPHY
1. PLAN YOUR WORK AND WORK YOUR PLAN
The plan needs to be driven by:
Engagement (employee, resident, customer)
Data that focuses on outcomes
2. INPUT -ORIENTED
Michael C. Van Milligen
Dubuque City Manager
Team members should take advantage of the valuable input that can be
provided by residents and employees for department decision -making.
Themes for effective use of the guiding principles
• Believe that people of all cultures and backgrounds provide valuable input
• Understand the benefits of receiving input from others
• Develop the processes that capitalize on the input of others, and work to
remove barriers to participation
• Understand the benefits of empowering others
• Seek first to understand and then to be understood — Steven Covey
• Motivate staff and encourage employee initiative
3. PROBLEM SOLVERS
Team members' approach to issues should be to focus on what can be done to
solve the problem.
Themes for effective use of the guiding principles
• Create processes that help others be more creative problem solvers
• Perceive problems as opportunities
• Look to others to help solve problems
In my opinion, the City
Manager's job is multi-
faceted in the work to create
a viable, livable, and
equitable community:
1) Most importantly, follow
the policy direction of the
Mayor and City Council.
2) Create a data -driven,
outcome -focused, high-
performance organization
with engaged employees and
residents including processes
and resources that allow
employees and partners to
be successful.
3) Create an atmosphere for
the successful investment of
capital by private businesses,
not -for -profits, and
individuals, while not
sacrificing community
quality of life attributes.
4) By your actions let people
know that you care with the
goal of providing them hope
that they can achieve their
personal goals.
• Develop an understanding of the various cultural approaches to conflict and
learn skills to adapt
• Encourage risk -taking
• Practice flexibility and assume good intent from participants with whom you disagree
• Understand that bureaucracies function best in black and white issues, while most issues are varying shades of gray
4. DEVELOP PARTNERSHIPS
Team members can be more effective by developing partnerships with other departments and outside
organizations.
Themes for effective use of the guiding principles
• Form teams around defined tasks
• Encourage employee involvement through problem -solving task forces
• Develop team processes for decision -making and setting goals and objectives
• Facilitate the group process and develop the ability to adapt to various communication styles
• Form partnerships that reflect the variety of backgrounds and interests in the community that we serve
5. ACT WITH A SENSE OF URGENCY
Success is about Planning, Partnerships and People leading to desired outcomes.
Management Style: Socratic
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$16
$12
$8
$4
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CITY PORTION OF
PROPERTYTAXESm
City Property Tax Rate Comparison
$18.97
$16.78 $17.56 $17.83
$14.99 $15 $15.73 $16.03 w ■ F1
$11.79
$9.72 $9.83 $9.95
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City of Dubuque FY2023
Property Tax Rate
• $9.7169 per thousand dollars assessed value
• Decrease of 1.74% from FY2022
rope ype
Avg. Property
I Change from FY2022
op
from FY20:
Residential
$22.74 more
2.96% increase
Commercial
$105.40 less
3.43% decrease
Industrial
$131.28 less
2.88% decrease
Multi -Residential
$126.11 less
7.20% decrease
Highest -ranked city (Waterloo - $18.97) is
95%higher than Dubuque
Average of other 10 cities ($14.99) is
54%higher than Dubuque
FY2022 Consolidated
Rate of 31.70847
NICC
2.9%
Other
1.9%
CITY BUDGET
The City's total budget for
FY2023 is $221,217,069
The City of Dubuque's Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 budget runs from
July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023. The budget has two
primary components: the operating budget and the capital budget.
The operating budget includes personnel costs and annual facility
operating costs. It is funded primarily through local property and
sales taxes.
The capital budget funds major improvements to City facilities
and infrastructure. The capital budget is supported through
multiple funding sources, including federal and state grants.
Fiscal Year 2023 City Budget
Major Funds
.
General Fund
$7 ,,704,876
$4,501,410
Water Fund
$8,912,677
$4,826,753
Sanitary Sewer Fund
$11,918,578
$8,953,440
Stormwater Fund
$4,978,442
$5,382,944
Refuse
$3,843,571
$543,994
Parking
$2,864,506
$85,231
The general fund is the operating fund for general City departments and their programs/services, such as
public safety, culture & recreation, health & social services, and general government.
How General Fund Money is Spent
CategoryPortion
ublic Safety
of General Fund
41.7%
Culture & Recreation
18.1%
General Government
14.5%
Public Works
8.4%
Community & Economic Development
6.2%
Capital Projects
5.4%
Health & Social Services
1.3%
Debt Service
0.4%
Other
3.9%
General Fund Reserve Projections
The City maintains a general fund reserve,
or working balance, to allow for unforeseen
expenses that may occur. The goal is to
have at least a 20% reserve.
What's Included in Your
Monthly Utility Bill?
Rate:
ater I Avg. Household Rate:
$33.18 / month*
(5% increase increase from FY2022)
Sanitary
Sewer
oCUb
Si
Collectio
(Trash & recycling
Avg. Household Rate:
$47.42 / month***
(9% increase increase from FY2022)
Basic Rate $15.38/month*
(no change from FY2022)
Curbside collection of recycling is no
extra charge.
Stormwater Avg. Household Rate:
$9.00 / month**
(1.69% increase increase from FY2022)
Ranking Among Iowa's Largest Cities:
2nd Lowest
(Highest, West Des Moines, is 26% higher than Dubuque,
and average is 8% higher than Dubuque)
4th Highest
(Highest, Davenport, is 40.8% higher than Dubuque,
and average is 10% lower than Dubuque)
4th Lowest
(Highest, Ames, is 89% higher than Dubuque,
and average is 26.5% higher than Dubuque)
2nd Highest
(Highest, Des Moines, is 72.1% higher than Dubuque,
and average is 29.2% lower than Dubuque)
$350
$300
$250
$200
$150
$100
$50
$0
1100%
90%
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
100%
90%
80 i°
70 %
60 %
50%
40 %
30 %
20%
10%
oar
Total Debt (in millions)
(Adopted FY2023 Budget)
Debt is being issued each year, but more is being retired than is issued.
FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24 FY25 FY26 FY27 FY28 FY29 FY30
Statutory Debt Limit Used
(Adopted FY2023 Budget)
90% This chart shows the percentage of statutory debt limit in the
Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 recommended budget. By FY2027, the
City will be at 32% of the statutory debt limit.
41%
■ 32%
(FY2023 Adopted)
FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24 FY25 FY26 FY27
Comparison of Statutory Debt Limit Utilized
(FY2021)
62% 61%
54% 53% 51% 50%
41%
33%
� 259/6 20% 19%
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The City of Dubuque's use of debt
can be compared to many average
homeowners who borrow to buy
their home. The City has borrowed
money at low interest rates to
invest in infrastructure. Unlike
the federal government, the City
does not borrow money to cover
operating expenses.
# Project Description and Amount Outstanding
1 Stormwater Improvements
$76,527,913
2 Water & Resource Recovery Center
$57,395,000
3 Water Improvements
$30,069,008
4 Parking Improvements
$23,769,184
5 Downtown TIF Incentives/Improvements $20,177,588
6 Sanitary Sewer Improvements
$13,301,860
7 TIF Rebates/Bonds to Businesses
$8,216,815
8 Industrial Park Expansions
$6,412,953
9 Caradco Building Iowa Finance
Authority Loan
10 Street Improvements*
Total
$3,470,309
$2,941,387
$242,283,017
* $162 million has been spent on street improvements from 1997-2021
Percent
Change in
Population:
201 0=2020
MicropolitanArea
• ' AM
8.9%
Fairfield
Spirit Lake
5.3%
Boone
-1.6%
Storm Lake
-2.4%
Muscatine
-.08%
Marshalltown
-2.8%
Newton
3.3
Oskaloosa
0%
Spencer
-4.1%
Ottumwa
-1.8
Burlington
-5.1%
Mason City
-4.4%
Fort Dodge
-5.5%
Fort Madison -Keokuk
-7.0%
Clinton
-5.5%
THE CITY OF
Dub
Masterpiece on the Mississippi
Cityad :Irpopulation
Gary, IN
1970
1759415
2020
Population
6%093
1 Change
1
-60.6%
South Bend, IN
1259580
1039453
-17.6%
Flint, MI
1939317
819252
-58.0%
Detroit, MI
195119482
6399111
-57.7%
Akron, OH
2759425
1909469
-30.8%
Cincinatti, OH
4529524
3099317
-31.6%
Cleveland, OH
7509903
3729624
-50.4%
Dayton, OH
2439601
1379644
-43.4%
Toledo, OH
3839818
2709871
-29.4%
Youngstown, OH
1399788
609068
-57.0%
z
Percent Change in Population: 2010=2020
THE CITY OF
Dub
Masterpiece on the Mississippi
Metropolitan Statistical Area
% Cha�ngej
Des Moines -West Des Moines Metro Area
16.7%
Iowa City Metro Area
15.2%
Omaha -Council Bluffs Metro Area
10.3%
Ames Metro Area
7,3%
Cedar Rapids Metro Area
6,2%
Dubuque Metro Area
4,2%
Sioux City, IA -NE -SD Metro Area
1.0%
Waterloo -Cedar Falls Metro Area
0.3%
Davenport -Moline -Rock Island Metro Area
-0.5%
100,000
98,000
KOO
94,000
92,000
90,000
88,000
86,000
84,000
82,000
Dubuque County Population Estimates
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