2015 Federal Legislative Priorities Copyright 2014
City of Dubuque Consent Items # 4.
ITEM TITLE: 2015 Federal Legislative Priorities
SUMMARY: City Manager recommending adoption of the 2015 Federal Legislative
Priorities.
SUGGESTED DISPOSITION: Suggested Disposition: Receive and File; Approve
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type
❑ Federal Legislative Priorities-MVM Memo City Manager Memo
❑ 2015 Federal Legislative Priorities Supporting Documentation
THE CITY OF Dubuque
UBE I
erica .i
Masterpiece on the Mississippi 2007-2012-2013
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
SUBJECT: 2015 Federal Legislative Priorities
DATE: February 26, 2015
Assistant City Manager Teri Goodmann has worked with the Department Managers and
City Manager's Office Administrative Assistant to develop a set of recommended 2015
Federal Legislative Priorities and is recommending adoption of the attached priorities.
I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council
adoption of the 2015 Federal Legislative Priorities.
aAA4 k�4
Mic ael C. Van Milligen
MCVM:jh
Attachment
cc: Barry Lindahl, City Attorney
Cindy Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager
Teri Goodmann, Assistant City Manager
THE CITY OF Dubuque
DUB E
All-America City
�
Masterpiece on the Mississippi 2007•2012•2013
2015
Federal Legislative
Table of Contents
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ..............................................................................................12
HOUSING ................................................................................................................................11
PLANNING..............................................................................................................................15
PUBLICHEALTH ...................................................................................................................13
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP PRIORITIES.....................................................................26
SUSTAINABLE AND RESILIENT COMMUNITIES .......................................................19
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND CONNECTIVITY .........................................................21
TRANSPORTATION................................................................................................................2
1
THE CITY OF Dubuque
AII-Ame1 rica City
DU B E r
Masterpiece on the Mississippi 2007•2012•2013
TRANSPORTATION
This year MAP-21 is set to expire. Reauthorization provides an opportunity to build on and
strengthen the innovations begun in MAP-21 in areas such as performance-based planning,
safety, design, and freight planning. Legislation should support policies, such as transit,
Transportation Alternatives, and TIGER grants, which expand choices, bolster public health, and
strengthen communities. Reauthorization should incorporate planning into TIGER, expand
efforts to leverage transportation investments through better land use planning and design, and
provide needed fiscal certainty for new transportation investments.
14th Street Railroad Overpass
The Canadian Pacific Railroad travels through the urban core of the city with numerous at-grade
crossings on local city streets in the downtown area. With approximately 15-20 trains passing
through Dubuque on a daily basis, this impedes the ability for pedestrians, vehicles, commercial
traffic and emergency responders to access the northeast segment of the city. Rail transport
through Dubuque will continue to negatively impact existing at-grade crossings which could
potentially be blocked more frequently and for longer periods of time. The City of Dubuque's
East —West Corridor would be crippled.
In 1958, a planning level study was developed for a bridge crossing over the railroad at 14th
Street. A 14th Street Overpass would provide an unimpeded elevated crossing over the railroad
tracks and thus provide unimpeded access to the Kerper Blvd Commercial Business Park, the
redeveloped 16th Street Corridor, the tourism and recreational amenities on Schmidt Island,
Highway 61/151 into Wisconsin, Washington and Northend neighborhoods, the Historic Millwork
District and downtown. Included in the project is implementation of the Complete Streets
Concept from, and including, the 5 points intersection to 11th Street or Elm Street. The City will
pursue funding opportunities at the federal level through application to TIGER, TSCP and other
transportation infrastructure programs.
Bee Branch Bike — Pedestrian Railroad Overpass
The bike/pedestrian bridge over the CP Railroad will provide an off-street trail between the 26-
mile Dubuque County Heritage Trail and the Mississippi River that does not exist at this time.
The Dubuque County Heritage Trail links Dubuque to Dyersville. The project will be part of the
City's 53.3-mile network of on-street routes and off-road trails connecting the north end of the
city with the riverfront, the downtown area, City parks, and the Mines of Spain State
Recreational Area on the south end of Dubuque. The Bee Branch Creek Trail-- MRT Route will
join with miles of other trails that line Dubuque neighborhoods, skirt the Mississippi River, and
wind through steep hills all within the city limits. The trail project will enhance connections to the
pedestrian grid via vehicular and pedestrian bridges- links to public spaces, like Comiskey Park,
and the Great River Road. The Bee Branch Creek Trail -- MRT Route will extend the North End
Neighborhood Trail, an off-road trail from 24th Street to 32nd Street in a former railroad right-of-
2
way along Elm Street. The project will be built on a currently vacant and level site that will be
accessible from sidewalks and bike/hike trails that will link to neighborhood streets.
Southwest Arterial — Project Status Update
Du ue to a cenw
wr—
DuEuque Industrial Center West
0
Dubuque TeMHark
�y
Key
soumwest nnenal ®a
Higbways/StreefsRoads Q'
Dubuque City Limits a+9 N
ae A
J � ^
The Dubuque City Council, the Dubuque County Board of Supervisors, the Dubuque
Metropolitan Area Transportation Study (DMATS), the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce,
and the Greater Dubuque Development Corporation have all identified the completion of the
Southwest Arterial project as the No. 1 surface transportation priority in the Dubuque area. The
proposed Southwest Arterial project will be a 6.1-mile four-lane divided freeway with priority 1-
access control between Highway 61/151 and Highway 20.
Economic Development
The Southwest Arterial project will significantly improve the efficiency and safety of the regional
highway transportation network that is vital for the statewide, national and global distribution of
local commerce and the continued growth and sustainability of the strong regional economy.
3
z Am
^�
ea � 1
Traffic Congestion on Local Street Network
Mobility Benefits
The Southwest Arterial project will connect two growing sections of the community together and
will support future anticipated expansion growth to the southwest of the city toward the Dubuque
Regional Airport. The Southwest Arterial will also provide an efficient bypass around the city,
thereby reducing travel times and minimizing delay by reducing traffic volumes and congestion
on the local street system.
Environmental Benebts
The Southwest Arterial project will provide an alternate, direct and efficient route for traffic
through southwestern Dubuque, which will provide significant travel time savings by avoiding the
numerous signalized intersections on Highway 61/151 , Highway 20 and Central Avenue (Hwy
52/3) through Dubuque, thereby providing fuel energy savings, reducing vehicle emissions and
improving air quality. The Southwest Arterial project will be designed and constructed with
forward thinking sustainability initiative incorporated, which will include an environmentally and
resource-sensitive highway corridor, an integrated bike / pedestrian trail with amenities, and
Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) technology.
Current Status
The preliminary engineering design phase is completed and the Southwest Arterial project is
now proceeding with the final engineering design phase, right-of-way property acquisition, and
archaeological and cultural resource phase III mitigation work.
Final Engineering Design
The technical design team is currently working on final engineering design elements, including:
interchange layout and configuration, bridge and structures design, geotechnical subsurface
investigation, sustainable highway design concepts, architectural and landscape enhancement
concepts, wetland delineations, and mitigation.
Property Acquisition
The City is currently proceeding with right-of-way property acquisition for the 52 impacted
properties. As of January 2015, the City has purchased 29 properties and has expended
approximately $7.1 million for right-of-way property acquisition. Currently there are four
properties that are in active, good-faith negotiations to purchase.
There are currently five properties that are temporarily on hold while the City works to obtain gas
pipeline utility relocation agreements. Once the agreements are in place, the necessary
4
easements can be obtained from the respective property owners. The City is optimistic that said
agreements can be in place within the next 30-60 days.
Archaeological and Cultural Resource Mitigation
In the summer of 2010, work began on the archaeological and cultural resource mitigation
phase of the project. As of December 2014, approximately 90% of the mitigation sites have
been completed. The remaining mitigation sites will be completed as those respective properties
are acquired and prior to the start of construction.
Construction
The first phase of construction, the North Cascade Road project (stage II grading and paving)
was substantially completed by December 19, 2012. Final finish grading, seeding and fencing
was completed by November of 2013. The project provided for the reconstruction (grading,
paving & bridge) and realignment of North Cascade Road, which will allow the Southwest
Arterial to travel under the new North Cascade Road Bridge.
The second construction phase, the English Mill Road reconstruction project, is scheduled for
bid letting in the summer of 2015 and will involve side road improvements that will allow the
highway to travel under the new English Mill Road Bridge.
The third construction phase, the Military Road reconstruction project, is scheduled for bid
letting in the spring of 2016 and will involve side road improvements that will allow the highway
to travel under the new Military Road Bridge.
The City, Iowa DOT staff and the consultant design team are developing and finalizing the
construction production schedule for construction of the main line Southwest Arterial between
Highway 61/151 and Highway 20. The first construction project to be let by the Iowa DOT will be
a box culvert structure at Granger Creek / Highway 61/151 in the summer of 2015, followed by
the Menards frontage road in 2016.
Transfer of Jurisdiction
The greatest recent accomplishment for the Southwest Arterial project was the execution of the
Memorandum of Understanding, which was formalized with a signing ceremony on August 9,
2013. This historic achievement would not have occurred without the collaborative partnership
between the Iowa DOT staff and the City of Dubuque and its partners.
The following is a brief summary of the overall intent and principle objectives set forth when
developing the MOU: The Iowa DOT and City, in joint cooperation, will Transfer the Jurisdiction
of the Southwest Arterial from the City to the State in exchange for the Transfer of Jurisdiction of
the Northwest Arterial (or Iowa 32), and portions of existing U.S. 52 / Iowa 3 through downtown
Dubuque, from the State to the City. The Transfer of Jurisdiction will occur after the Southwest
Arterial is completed and open to traffic.
Funding
As a result of hard work from Dubuque's congressional delegation and the strong support and
partnership of former U.S. Senator Harkin, U.S. Senator Grassley, former Congressman Nussle
and former Congressman Braley, the City has secured approximately $32.8 million in federal
funding for the Southwest Arterial project. The Iowa Department of Transportation Commission
approved in the current Iowa 5-Year Highway Transportation Improvement Program $97.4
million in funding programmed for the Southwest Arterial project.
5
The following table summarizes the maximum City and County local match funding, including
both federal earmark and Iowa DOT funding for continuing the advancement and completion of
the Southwest Arterial:
Total Funding Projection Summary Status Amount
Total Federal Funds Committed $ 32,860,720 **
Total Local Funds Committed $ 7,152,913 **
Total State Funds Committed $ 97,400,000
Total Federal /State/ Local Funding: $137,413,633
Following the completion of the North Cascade, English Mill and Military Road construction
projects, along with the completion of final engineering design, right-of-way property acquisition,
and mitigation work, it is projected that all current federal appropriated funding and local match
for the Southwest Arterial will be expended.
Subject to future continued funding availability in the Iowa DOT's 5-Year Transportation
Program, the Iowa DOT projects that the Southwest Arterial (2-lanes) could be open to traffic by
the end of 2019.
Requested Action:
The City of Dubuque requests any additional financial assistance that can be provided on
the federal and state level, as well as continued support of the Iowa Department of
Transportation Commission to maintain its current programmed funding for the Southwest
Arterial in the Iowa 5-Year Highway Transportation Improvement Program, which
includes $97.4 million programmed in for the Southwest Arterial. In addition, we request
federal support for funding of priority projects including 14th Street Overpass and Bee
Branch Pedestrian Overpass.
Capacity Improvements - U.S. Highway 20
Transportation infrastructure connectivity is essential to a vibrant economy and thriving
community.
Requested Action:
The City of Dubuque supports completion of four lane construction on Highway 20 to
Chicago.
TIGER Program
The Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery, or TIGER Discretionary Grant
program, provides competitive grant funding for local governments to invest in road, rail, transit
and port projects that focus on addressing critical national objectives. Since 2009, Congress has
dedicated more than $4.1 billion for six rounds to fund projects that have a significant impact on
communities. Dubuque received a TIGER I grant in 2010 for $5.6 million to restore streets and
utilities in the Historic Millwork District. These funds were key to leveraging over $100 million in
private development in this reclaimed area of Dubuque's urban core.
6
Requested Action:
The City of Dubuque supports continued funding of the TIGER program.
Public Transit Funding
It is essential that the City of Dubuque's federal partners continue to provide adequate funding
for operation, maintenance and replacement of public transit vehicles.
Requested Action:
Increase support for public transit vehicles and their operations and maintenance.
Expansion of the Julien Dubuque Bridge
The City of Dubuque continues to anticipate the need for expanded access to Illinois across the
Mississippi River. Proposals dating back a decade include construction of an additional span on
the Julien Dubuque Bridge. It is incumbant upon City leaders to continue to plan and prioritize
with the knowledge that any desired outcome must include planning, prioritization and support
from our neighbors across the river, and from the Illinois Department of Transportation and
federal partners at USDOT. While this project is several years away, planning for a project of
this magnitude requires inclusion in our federal legislative priorities.
Requested Action:
We ask that our elected representatives in Congress partner with the City to advance
discussion and planning around Julien Dubuque Bridge expansion and that they
responsibly support increased funding for all transportation infrastructure.
Safe Routes to Schools and Complete Streets
The City of Dubuque is an active participant in long-range planning for a comprehensive
bike/hike trail system that will provide multi-modal transportation for the Dubuque metro area.
The Tri-State Area Integrated Walking, Biking, Hiking Network Plan calls for a bike/hike network
to encourage recreation and wellness, provide safe routes to schools, and promote alternative
modes of transportation to help reduce air pollution and roadway congestion. Completion of the
bike/hike trail system will add to the region's reputation as a tourist destination for both the State
of Iowa and the tri-state area.
The 26-mile Dubuque County Heritage Trail and the City of Dubuque's 53.3-mile Heritage Trail
Extension are part of the backbone system of the State Recreational Trail Plan. The City's
Heritage Trail system is part of the designated route for the Mississippi River Trail (MRT)
through Iowa. The MRT is a 2,000-mile bike trail system being developed through the river
cities and river landscapes in the ten states along the Mississippi River from Lake Itasca to the
Gulf of Mexico.
The City has a long-standing commitment to a citywide bike/hike network that is accessible to all
segments of the general population, including minorities, the elderly, and persons with
disabilities. This commitment is exemplified by the City's adoption of a Complete Streets Policy.
The adopted Complete Streets Policy for the City of Dubuque provides an integrated multimodal
approach to roadway planning and design and will further Dubuque's commitment to
sustainability. The Policy establishes that development of as many street projects as possible
will be done in an affordable, balanced, responsible and equitable way that accommodates and
7
encourages travel by motorists, bicyclists, public transit vehicles and their passengers, and
pedestrians of all ages and abilities.
The benefits of Complete Streets are that they increase the capacity and efficiency of the road
network, reduce traffic congestion, improve mobility options, limit greenhouse gas emissions
and improve the general quality of life. Promoting pedestrian, bicycle and public transportation
travel as an alternative to the automobile reduces negative environmental impacts, promotes
healthy living and is less costly to the commuter.
The City of Dubuque seeks to build on these benefits to more children walking and bicycling to
schools, and is actively implementing the area's Safe Routes to Schools Plan. The purposes of
the Safe Routes to School program and funding are: 1) to enable and encourage children,
including those with disabilities to walk and bicycle to school; 2) to make bicycling and walking to
school a safer and more appealing transportation alternative, thereby encouraging a healthy and
active lifestyle from an early age; and 3) to facilitate the planning, development, and
implementation of projects and activities that will improve safety and reduce traffic, fuel
consumption and air pollution in the vicinity of schools.
Requested Action:
Support the Safe Routes to Schools and Complete Streets program.
Bike/Hike Trails and the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP)
The Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21) replaced the Transportation
Enhancement Activities with the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP). MAP-21 also
authorized TAP projects under the Surface Transportation Program (STP). Transportation
Alternatives Program provides communities with funding for projects that enhance the
transportation experience. During the last 20 years, programs the Transportation
Enhancements program and the TAP program have given communities the kind of projects they
want, such as bike paths, rails-to-trails conversions and Main Street improvements. Historic
neighborhoods and downtowns have also benefited from improved transit, making it easier to
get to jobs, homes, shopping and entertainment.
Requested Action:
Support full funding of the Transportation Alternatives Program.
Dubuque Regional Airport
Dubuque encourages the following considerations in developing the 2015 Federal
Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization:
Through the annual Appropriation process, Dubuque encourages increasing spending levels for
the Airport Improvement Program (AIP), Essential Air Service, Small Community Air Service
Development Grants, Contract Tower Program, and other programs that safely operate, develop
and maintain facilities at airports around the country.
AIP
A major component of the FAA is the Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which provides
funding for airport expansion, rehabilitation and capital projects. In Iowa, 69 general aviation
airports and eight commercial service airports are eligible for funding from the AIP program. AIP
and its predecessors FAAP and ADAP, has worked well for Iowa airport since 1947 and IPAA
would like to see the continued full funding of this program.
8
Requested Action:
1 . Dubuque encourages reinstating the local match levels in past legislation of 5%
(Vision 100).
2. Fund the AIP program to provide $3.6 billion in 2015 with $100 million in increases every
year throughout the reauthorization period. We have been static for 10 years.
3. Since these are monies already collected and deposited in the Airport and Airway Trust
Fund, we must protect these funds and budget from Sequestration or FAA Operating
uses.
4. Allow Small and Non-Hub, and General Aviation airports the ability to use AIP entitlement
and PFC funds to develop or improve revenue producing facilities.
roup ;,
IIIItIGII "'\,
\
\
2 Mye Peti4'fnmaug \
MWrya _ 'V
e.mmreiimeerev
AMT Provisions
The City of Dubuque supports the permanent elimination of the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT)
penalty on all airport revenue bonds. We seek the ability to refund a number of these bonds, as
well as a 'look-back" provision allowing airports to refund AMT bonds.
This action will prove tremendously successful in lowering capital costs for some airports, DBQ
supports a permanent change and an indefinite look-back provision which will result in
significant savings to many airports, large and small. Unless Congressional action is taken,
DBQ forecasts a significant decrease in future demand for airport bonds to the point where sales
of any significant AMT bonds will not be possible, and airports will be forced to postpone
projects or issue taxable bonds at much higher costs.
Requested Action:
Eliminate the AMT penalty. This will ensure airports will be able to undertake additional
capital investment projects, maintain lower costs to the traveling public, and most
importantly, create and keep jobs by building safer and more efficient airports.
9
Contract Tower Funding:
Compromises in public safety services like Air Traffic Control (ATC) are never to be used as a
means to protect the FAA administrative structure. ATC cuts should be the last option on the
table, not the first. 251 public use airports had been identified for tower closures in 2013 by the
FAA Administrator, three are in Iowa. This is not acceptable. The only contract tower in Iowa
on that list is the Dubuque tower which is operated by a private firm on contract with the Federal
Aviation Administration. Continued funding for this program is essential for public safety.
Dubuque has the 3rd busiest airport in Iowa.
Requested Action:
Safety and common sense dictates continued funding of the ATC program and the
contract tower program or restoration of FAA staffing of these facilities. Funding cannot
come from a reduction in AIP Discretionary funds.
Passenger Facility Charges:
These FAA authorized funds are levied and collected locally and are used to construct runways,
taxiways, terminals, security improvements, and many other items travelers encounter daily. The
current collection amount of $4.50 per passenger and is not indexed to inflation which restricts
the amount of money available for large capital projects. Since the PFC came into existence in
1990, it has had only 1 increase to its current amount. In the meantime, construction costs have
more than tripled.
Requested Action:
Increasing the PFC to $8.50 and indexing it to inflation would ensure long term funding
viability for even the smallest of commercial service airports. Allowing these funds to be
used for revenue generating items like parking lots, airline offices, etc. would significantly
reduce the impact on smaller airports, their tenants, and their sponsors.
Air Service Development Program
The U.S. Department of Transportation manages the Small Community Air Service
Development Program. This program helps small and non-hub airports with monetary support
of airline recruitment endeavors. The Department of Transportation's grant application has very
restrictive guidelines, which limit airport participation to one-time projects. If those methods
work to attract one carrier, you may not seek a grant to offer the same incentives to another
carrier.
Requested Action:
Eliminating that restriction would allow communities to implement previously viable
methods for recruiting new/expanded air service.
Airline Safety and FAA Extension Act of 2010
This legislation mandated that the Federal Aviation Administration require pilots to complete
1 ,500 flight hours before they're allowed to apply for an airline position has decimated the
regional airline industry. Iowa has already lost service in Fort Dodge and Mason City. Airlines
are unable to hire qualified pilots and more communities will lose service unless this legislation
is repealed. This legislation does nothing to promote safety and is destroying an industry.
Requested Action:
Repeal the Airline Safety and FAA Extension Act of 2010.
Continued Diversion of Federal Taxes on Aviation Jet Fuel
10
The City of Dubuque strongly opposes the convoluted tax process of aviation jet fuel. Fuel taxes
from the sale of jet fuel are currently credited to the Highway Trust Fund. In order for the taxes
to be properly credited to the Aviation Trust Fund, the fuel vendor or buyer must apply with the
IRS for a refund of the tax, and only then are the funds transferred to the Airport and Airway
Trust Fund.
The process is confusing and places the burden on the fuel vendor or buyer to get the fuel taxes
credited to the proper trust fund. In addition, the aviation community seriously questions if fuel
tax fraud involving jet fuel and the trucking industry is actually occurring and has seen no
statistical evidence to support those claims.
Requested Action:
Place a tax on aviation kerosene at the same .244 rate as highway diesel eliminating any
incentive for suspected fraud. The resulting tax revenues could then be deposited into the
respective trust funds directly eliminating the burdensome reporting and record keeping
requirements that now exist, in addition the resulting increase in fuel tax would help
strengthen the Aviation Trust Fund helping to eliminate the need for user fees in the
future.
User Fees
We believe user fees will damage the fragile general aviation environment. Jet A or aviation fuel
already exceeds $6.00 per gallon and in some locations $8.00 per gallon. Operating costs for
flight training, medevac, agricultural, small package shipping, and business aircraft use has
skyrocketed over the past seven years. Assessing fees for use of the air traffic control system
will end this form of aviation for all but the very wealthy. The effects of such fees in Europe and
Canada have devastated private and corporate aviation.
Requested Action:
Oppose user fees on the air traffic control system.
HOUSING
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funding
The City of Dubuque relies on CDBG money to fund many of its vital programs. Projects that
are at least partially funded by CDBG include rehabilitation of rental and owner-occupied
housing, homeowner education classes, lead paint hazard abatement, commercial and industrial
building rehabilitation and economic development, childcare referral services, dispute
resolutions services, to support operations of several non-profits providing direct services to
income-eligible individuals and families, as part of the community development/neighborhood
strategy program..
In the last ten years, the City's formula allocation of CDBG funding has been cut by nearly 32%,
or $ 444,283. This severe cut has hurt local communities — local economies, local projects, and,
most importantly, the low- and moderate-income households that reside in these communities
and need the assistance. Due to reductions in funding, we expect to serve 2,718 fewer low and
moderate income people than we served in 2010. In addition, we expect to serve 693 fewer
households with housing development programs like down-payment assistance or homeowner
rehabilitation.
11
The CDBG formula funding has never been adjusted for inflation (since the inception of the
program in 1974), even though construction costs, wages, and other program costs have
escalated sharply in the past four decades. Continued funding of CDBG is needed to provide
the flexibility for communities to fund a myriad of activities, fill gaps where needed, and attract
additional resources to projects.
The U.S. Conference of Mayors and the National Community Development Association are
calling for $ 3.3 billion, in formula funding for the Community Development Block Grant program
and continued administrative funding for CDBG. Currently, CDBG communities can use up to
20% of the grant on administrative and planning costs. Communities need the flexibility to use
up to 20% of their grant to meet the administrative and planning requirements of the program.
Requested Action:
The City of Dubuque requests that our congressional members support the CDBG
program during the budget and appropriation process, seeking support of $3.3 billion in
formula funding in 2016 and continued administrative funding levels.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
New Market Tax Credit Program
The New Markets Tax Credit program provides a potential financing tool for major economic
development projects in Dubuque including the Historic Millwork District restoration and
revitalization, the Dubuque Pack site redevelopment and the Briggs project on the Fourth Street
peninsula. Unfortunately, the program has not benefited rural states and communities in the
same manner it has benefited larger metro centers. Expanding and streamlining the program
and helping to ensure it is accessible to smaller communities in rural states would benefit the
City of Dubuque and its partners in the private sector.
Additionally, the flexibility of the program is desirable, but its accompanying complexity tends to
increase legal, accounting, and CDE fees, since each project is unique and thus requires
extensive planning and oversight to achieve and maintain program compliance. These
increased fees reduce the amount of equity available for the project, often rather significantly.
Finding ways to streamline the program would benefit projects and communities that make use
of this funding tool.
Requested Action:
Reauthorize this important program for urban restoration.
Federal Historic Tax Credits
The Federal Rehabilitation Tax Credit is the nation's largest federal incentive promoting urban
and rural revitalization through private investment in reusing historic buildings. The credit
encourages reinvestment in downtowns, generates jobs, and is instrumental in preserving the
historic places that give cities, towns and rural areas their unique character.
Requested Action:
• Raise the credit from 20% to 30% for projects with QREs under $5,000,000.
12
• Allow full compatibility of federal Historic Tax Credits with federal Consumer Energy
Efficiency Tax Credits.
• Redefine "old" buildings as those more than 50-years old vs. the current 1936
standard.
• Strike 3 of the 4 disqualified lease rules (all except the "sale leaseback") from the
program.
• Increase federal tax credits from 20% to 30% for the first $5 million in expenditures for
a project and to24% for the remaining portion of a project.
Arts & Culture
The Dubuque City Council has prioritized the arts and has commissioned and funded an Arts
Master Plan. The arts make an annual economic impact of$47 million, support 1550 jobs,
distribute $36.7 million in household income to local residents and return $5 million in
state and local government revenue.
Requested Action:
Support Funding of the National Endowment for the Arts
Support of the NEA widens citizen access to the cultural, educational, and economic
benefits of the arts, and advances creativity and innovation in communities across the
United States. Federal funding for the arts leverages private funding. On average, each
NEA grant leverages at least seven dollars from other state, local and private sources.
Private support cannot match the leveraging role of government cultural funding. The
arts mean jobs! The nonprofit arts industry generates $166.2 billion annually in economic
activity, supports 5.7 million full-time equivalent jobs in the arts and related industries,
and returns $12.6 billion in federal income taxes. Measured against direct federal cultural
spending of about $1 .4 billion, we see a return of nearly nine to one.
PUBLIC HEALTH
Crescent Community Health Center
Community Health Centers (CHC's) across the country have consistently demonstrated the
value of the care they provide. Community Health Centers are an affordable and accessible
source of primary and preventive health care for more than 22 million underserved individuals,
including more than 181 ,000 here in Iowa. In 2013, Crescent served over 6,000 patients for a
total of almost 15,000 patient visits.
The Senate recently passed the FY 2015 omnibus appropriations bill by a vote of 56-40. The
spending package includes $5.1 billion in total funding for the Health Centers program in FY
2015. While this concludes the annual funding process for FY 2015, it does not address the
Health Center funding cliff which will occur absent Congressional action before the end of the
fiscal year on September 30, 2015. Failure to fund health centers will result in site closures, staff
layoffs, and massive service reductions. Cost — effective programs with proven positive
outcomes such as the Health Center Program must be preserved and strengthened.
13
Requested Action:
This can be achieved through sustained annual appropriations and full implementation of
the Affordable Care Act's prospective payment system (PPS) reimbursement for
Community Health Centers.
Crescent Community Health Center-continues to see great number of uninsured patients, and is
working diligently to assist patients and those in Northeast Iowa to obtain health insurance
through the Iowa Exchange. The HRSA grant covers about 25% of Crescent's approximate
$4M budget, creating a 25% shortfall that is not being made up by Medicaid, Medicare, private
insurance or self-pay patients. This has forced cuts to control costs, but also extends the time in
which patients are seen by a medical provider, or reduces the services they receive.
The largest number of patients with repeated no-show appointments is Medicaid patients.
Crescent staff works hard to eliminate barriers to making appointments, such as transportation
and reminder calls. However, the no-show rate continues between 17 and 40% on any given
day.
Requested Action:
Patients eligible for Medicaid should be charged if they fail to make their appointments or
create a disincentive for missing appointments.
Medicaid patients should also be able to be redirected from emergency rooms to local CHC's for
non-emergency reasons, e.g. sore throats, colds, etc. A 2007 study by the National Center for
Health Statistics, a division of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, states that
"Persons with Medicaid coverage were more likely to have had multiple visits to the ED in a 12
month period than those with private insurance and the uninsured." Emergency rooms are
obligated to at least see and stabilize the patient. Poverty, education levels and race all play a
role in overutilization of emergency departments and no-show rates at health centers.
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center
for Health Statistics. NCHS Data Brief, No.38, May 2010
The Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) provides malpractice coverage to Section 330 health center
grantees (CHCs) along with their officers, directors, employees, and certain contractors who
have been deemed Federal employees for the purposes of medical malpractice coverage.
CHCs face many challenges in recruiting a sufficient number of primary health care providers to
meet their growing patient population. One solution to help alleviate this workforce shortage is
the use of volunteer providers. Many health professionals are willing to volunteer at Crescent
Community Health Center, but they are dissuaded from doing so because of the high cost of
supplemental medical liability insurance, the burden of which must be borne by either the
provider or the health center. Recent CBO estimates indicate that extending FTCA coverage to
volunteers may cost approximately $30 million over 5 years. Because the health center FTCA
judgment fund is appropriated as a subpart of annual Health Center program appropriations, this
law could be implemented without the addition of new annual appropriations.
Requested Action:
We urge Congress to expand FTCA coverage to include volunteer health professionals in
Health Centers by passing the Family Health Care Accessibility Act, introduced in the House
(H.R. 2703) by Reps. Tim Murphy and Gene Green and the Senate (S. 955) by Sens. John
Thune and Robert Casey.
14
Lead Hazard Control, Healthy Homes, & Green and Healthy Homes Initiative
In conjunction with Dubuque's current Lead Hazard Control, Childhood Lead Poisoning
Prevention, and Healthy Homes programs, the City is participating in the Green and Healthy
Homes Initiative (GHHI). Dubuque's holistic sustainability model, which encompasses
environmental integrity, economic prosperity and social/cultural provides an excellent platform
for a Green and Healthy Homes Initiative. GHHI does work not addressed by the HUD Lead
Hazard Control and Healthy Homes Programs, such as providing links to community health,
social, and education resources, assisting with home preparation to allow lead and healthy
homes work, and the services of a home advocate. However, the city continues to need funding
sources to mitigate the most costly problems, lead and healthy homes issues. Through June
2013, Dubuque created 1 ,151 lead safe residents through HUD Lead Hazard Reduction grants
and reduced the lead poisoning rate to 2.8%. With the first Healthy Homes Initiative grant, 100
units have had healthy homes interventions, addressing mold and moisture, safety, pests, etc.
Data collected through the new Healthy Homes and GHHI programs have shown a great need
to continue to integrate healthy homes principles in conjunction with the Lead Hazard Control
and Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Programs.
The goals of the program are: 1) reduction and prevention of lead poisoned children, especially
throughout the neighborhoods of Dubuque; 2) continuance of professional lead certification and
training of area contractors, workers, program inspectors and property owners, leading to
employment opportunities; 3) collaborative public education, awareness and training of health
professionals, tenants, and property owners; 4) integration and braiding of related services from
community partners who will promote and establish lead-safe and healthy housing throughout
the neighborhoods of Dubuque; and 5) continue to grow a comprehensive Healthy Homes
Program, aligned with the Green and Healthy Homes Initiative. Aimed at bringing significant
resources and multiple community partners together to improve the community's and Iowa's
oldest housing stock, the program will strengthen neighborhoods infrastructure and provide an
avenue for green and healthy homes, and green and healthy neighborhoods.
Requested Action:
While Dubuque has successfully met all goals and benchmarks of previously awarded
HUD grants, the 2014 HUD applications were not funded. This is the first time since
1997 that we will not be able to continue the lead and healthy homes programs.
Dubuque will be submitting applications for HUD Lead Hazard Control and Healthy
Homes Initiative with this year's expected NOFA's from HUD. Please support the City's
application.
PLANNING
Certified Local Government Program
The CLG program was established as part of the 1966 National Historic Preservation Act to
create federal, state and local governmental partnerships, provide historic preservation training
and technical assistance, and encourage preservation and wise use of historic resources at the
local level.
In Iowa, the Certified Local Government program is one of the historic preservation offerings of
the State Historic Preservation Office, part of the State Historical Society of Iowa, a division of
the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs. To participate in the CLG program, a local government
15
must have a local historic preservation program that complies with CLG program requirements.
To qualify for or obtain "certified status", the local government must demonstrate that its local
historic preservation program meets certain standards.
For the local government, its staff and Historic Preservation Commission, there are some direct
benefits of participating in the CLG program. There is free historic preservation training and
technical assistance from the State's historic preservation staff. Participating cities and counties
receive a start-up preservation reference library for use in developing and administering the
program. Cities and counties in the CLG program qualify for a small, competitive, matching CLG
grant program that is open only CLG program participants. These federal pass-through grants
can be used to underwrite all historic preservation activities except rehabilitation.
In Iowa, the CLG program has helped cities and counties to develop their local historic
preservation programs as a tool to help promote downtown revitalization; to protect, stabilize
and revive historic neighborhoods; and to provide an authentic foundation for heritage tourism.
Requested Action:
The City of Dubuque supports continued federal funding for the Certified Local
Government (CLG) Program.
Land and Water Conservation Fund
Land and water conservation fund has been critical to the development of outdoor recreational
opportunities in Dubuque. Past grant awards have funded softball field development for youth
and adults, open space development in the area of historically significant places along the
Mississippi River and expansion of the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center at Mines of Spain State
Recreation Area. Each of these developments has been very important to expansion of outdoor
recreation. Continued funding of this program is critical to Dubuque as a partnering source for
accomplishing outdoor recreation for our citizens.
Requested Action:
The City of Dubuque supports reauthorization of and full and dedicated funding for the
Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF).
Livable Community Initiatives
Building Stronger, Healthier, and More Resilient Communities through Planning
The American Planning Association believes that federal policy can be a vital tool for supporting
local planning that builds communities of lasting value. A supportive framework in federal policy
for good local planning is vital to the safety and prosperity of the nation and its communities.
Requested Action:
The City of Dubuque supports federal legislation to integrate comprehensive planning
efforts with livable community initiatives that take into account sustainability and Smart
Growth principles.
Advance federal tax and fiscal policies to better support stable, strategic, and place-
based investment in critical infrastructure and economic development.
Investment in infrastructure and communities are critical to the nation's long-term prosperity and
competitiveness and short-term economic and job growth. Efforts to overhaul the tax code,
reauthorize key programs, or address broader fiscal policy should support and advance this
16
needed investment. Policy decisions should strengthen and stabilize proven tools while
advancing innovative approaches to infrastructure funding and local economic development.
Requested Action:
Any broad tax reform should include policies that strengthen communities and advance a
place-based strategy for growth.
Key issues:
• Transportation Trust Fund
• Community Development Block Grants
• Water Infrastructure
• New Markets Tax Credit
• Marketplace Fairness Act
• Transit Commuter Benefits
• Tax Reform
Encourage communities to improve planning for water hazards, use, and quality.
Whether facing historic drought, rising sea levels, frequent flooding, or aging infrastructure,
America's communities have significant and growing challenges related to the essential
resource of water. Expanded planning for water resources, infrastructure, coastal changes, and
hazards is essential to successfully confronting these challenges. While these water plans are
inherently local, federal policy can play a critical role by providing critical data, supporting
research, and creating appropriate incentives and standards.
Requested Action:
Maintaining a robust federal role in funding and financing capital projects in partnership
with states, localities, and the private sector is vital.
Key issues:
• Hazard Mitigation
• Flood and Coastal Mapping
• Infrastructure Standards and Performance Measures
• Planning Grants, Incentives, and Assistance
• Building Codes
• Energy Policy
Provide high-quality federal data resources that support the needs of local governments,
planners, and decision makers.
Good planning is based on sound, comprehensive data. The federal government is a key
provider of essential data for understanding economic, social, environmental, and demographic
trends shaping the nation's communities. These resources make government programs more
effective and efficient and allow for better decision making by local citizens and businesses. It is
vital that federal data agencies and resources are maintained, coordinated, and strengthened
with a focus on supporting local communities.
Requested Action:
Often federal data direct allocations of government spending and aid programs at all
levels, as well as inform local plans. It is essential that these resources fully consider and
analyze changes related to key demographic trends ranging from aging to immigration.
Key issues:
• Census and ACS
• Digital Coast
• Economic Data
• Federal Geospatial Data
17
HUD and Other Federal Location Efficiency Data
Assist communities working to address affordable housing, encourage economic
mobility, and build stronger neighborhoods.
A rebounding economy but persistent challenges in wage growth combine to create significant
housing affordability problems in many communities. Communities and developers of affordable
housing need critical financing support and reforms to programs to improve their use and speed
projects. As the future of housing finance and government-sponsored enterprises (GSEs) are
debated, it is important to maintain a commitment to supporting low-income and multifamily
housing, improving energy efficiency, and addressing homelessness and supportive housing.
Requested Action:
Partnering with local governments, planners, and residents to build neighborhoods of
opportunity and promise should be a fundamental goal of federal policy. This challenge
should be met with a combination of proven tools and programs; targeted and
coordinated investments and incentives; thoughtful strategies for immigration policy and
demographic change; and strategic support for new economic and community
development strategies.
Kev issues:
• Community Development Block Grants
• Choice Neighborhoods
• Low Income Housing Tax Credit
• Fair Housing
• GSE and Housing Finance Reform
• Land and Water Conservation Fund
• Neighborhood Stabilization
• Promise Zones and SC2
• Aging in Community
• HOME
• Housing Trust Fund
Respect state and local planning authority.
While APA recognizes the importance of federal involvement where necessary to address
certain historic inequities, we remain vigilant in defense of local planning authority as a
cornerstone value in our system of government. Congress should continue to respect local
planning and community safeguards by rejecting any efforts to impose regulatory takings
standards that increase lawsuits and undermine locally adopted plans. Respect for the critical
role of planning is especially vital in energy policy.
Requested Action:
Federal policy should support and encourage energy-related local planning that
addresses issues of community impacts, safety, economic development, and
environmental quality. Federal policy should respect and appropriately engage local
decision makers in the siting of key federal facilities and energy and telecommunications
infrastructure.
Kev issues:
• Takings
• Telecommunication Siting and Facilities
• Federal Buildings and Facilities
• Energy Siting and Safety
18
SUSTAINABLE AND RESILIENT COMMUNITIES
The City of Dubuque identified becoming a more Sustainable City as one of its top priorities in
2006. Since then, multiple strategies and practices have been implemented to make Dubuque a
more sustainable community. This year, the City was honored to be recognized as one of the
White House's 16 Climate Action Champions. The City is a member of Climate Communities,
the Urban Sustainability Directors Network and ICLEI — Local Governments for Sustainability,
and joins those organizations in supporting local government action on climate change and
resiliency as essential for America to achieve energy independence, renew economic prosperity
and preserve biodiversity. Federal policies must empower local governments with the tools and
resources to respond to the climate challenge. We request your support in achieving the
following goals:
• Invest in local climate capacity through annual federal appropriations such as the DOE
Clean Cities program, the Forest Service's Urban and Community Forestry program,
Stormwater and Drinking Water funding, and Green Infrastructure programs.
• Transform the nation's transportation strategy by:
• Substantially increasing federal resources for public transit;
• Supporting local initiatives to reduce vehicle-dependence and use including resources
for smart growth and transit-oriented development, VMT reduction planning and
implementation, walk ability programs, bikeways and greenways, infill and brownfields
revitalization, and reuse of historic and existing buildings; and
• Funding low-emission busses, clean local fleets, and local alternative fuels
infrastructure.
• Build self-reliant communities that are prepared for climate impacts.
• Support community revitalization by:
• Reviewing legislation in order to balance historic preservation and energy
efficiency requirements; and
• Supporting EDA tools such as Brownfields grants and technical assistance
programs to support environmental cleanup and community redevelopment.
Weatherization Assistance Program
Recognizing the increasing cost of energy and the significant impact this required cost has on
low- and moderate-income residents, the City advocates for continued sufficient funding of the
Weatherization Assistance Program.
National Energy Planning Policy
As a member of the APA, the City encourages adoption of a long-term sustainable national
energy policy, addressing decreasing availability of petroleum, energy self-sufficiency, economic
competiveness, greenhouse gas emissions, environmental protection, and social equity. This
policy should recognize and separate the long-term development of replacement and alternative
energy sources from short-term fluctuations in market prices for energy. This policy should also
recognize the impact that energy-efficient land use patterns, building design, and transportation
modalities have on the demand for energy.
Data and Measurement
The City recognizes the importance of easy, consistent, and affordable access to energy data at
the community level as an integral component of energy, sustainability, healthy communities,
19
and community planning. We advocate for transparent data processes that allow communities to
review utility data while also ensuring adequate data security and privacy.
Energy Effects
With the APA, we encourage evaluating the energy effects along with other impacts resulting
from proposed plans and development as well as the siting of energy generation and
transmission facilities in order to mitigate their adverse impacts on land use, environment,
economy, health, quality of life, and national security. We encourage federal and state
legislation supporting Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing so that the costs
associated with energy efficiency improvements can be shared by the property owners who
experience the benefits of those improvements.
Environmental Justice
We support state and federal efforts in striving to attain environmental equity and justice with
regard to the siting of energy facilities, resource extraction, energy generation, distribution
infrastructure, and energy-related waste disposal.
Distributed Energy Generation
The City supports distributed energy generation systems that utilize community energy
generation and "smart grid" public infrastructure that supports both conservation and energy
efficiency.
Smart Grid Technology
We support modernization of the nation's electrical grid that will allow for the efficient integration
of innovative technologies such as renewable energy systems and electric vehicles, and makes
it possible to offer dynamic electricity pricing options that can reduce strain on the grid while
benefitting consumers. Advances in metering technology also create opportunities to provide
consumers with access to more information about their electricity usage and costs, which can
inform their decisions about energy consumption.
Research and Development
The City recognizes that in the short and mid-term, oil, coal, and natural gas will continue to be
significant sources of energy for the United States and other nations until other forms of energy
can be developed at a scale to adequately replace the world's reliance on fossil fuels. Therefore,
continued focused research and development in improving the efficient use of these sources
while reducing the environmental costs must be a high priority for the United States. We
support expanded research and development funding and efforts to create and improve
alternative and renewable energy sources and the development of energy transition scenarios
for use by local officials and the general public.
The City of Dubuque identified becoming a more Sustainable City as one of its top priorities in
2006. Since then, multiple strategies and practices have been implemented to make Dubuque a
more sustainable community. The year, the City was honored to be recognized as one of the
White House's 16 Climate Action Champions. The City is a member of Climate Communities,
the Urban Sustainability directors Network and ICLEI — Local Governments for Sustainability,
and joins those organizations in supporting local government action on climate change and
resiliency as essential for America to achieve energy independence, renew economic prosperity
and preserve biodiversity. Federal policies must empower local governments with the tools and
resources to respond to the climate challenge.
20
Requested Action:
• Invest in local climate capacity through annual federal appropriations such as the
DOE Clean Cities program, the Forest Service's Urban and Community Forestry
program, Stormwater and Drinking Water funding, and Green Infrastructure programs.
• Transform the nation's transportation strategy by:
• Substantially increasing federal resources for public transit;
• Supporting local initiatives to reduce vehicle-dependence and use including
resources for smart growth and transit-oriented development, VMT reduction
planning and implementation, walk ability programs, bikeways and greenways, infill
and brownfields revitalization, and reuse of historic and existing buildings; and
• Funding low-emission busses, clean local fleets, and local alternative fuels
infrastructure.
• Build self-reliant communities that are prepared for climate impacts.
• Support community revitalization by:
• Reviewing legislation in order to balance historic preservation and energy
efficiency requirements; and
• Supporting EDA tools such as Brownfields grants and technical assistance
programs to support environmental cleanup and community redevelopment.
Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program
The Federal Emergency Management Agency's Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) program
effectively reduces threats to communities and structures at risk for flooding by funding
preparation in advance of natural disasters, while also reducing a community's reliance upon
Federal post-disaster recovery funds. PDM provided over $70 million in pre-disaster planning
and mitigation to 39 states and territories in 2011 , saving money by investing in disaster
preparation, when every dollar spent on disaster mitigation yielded four dollars in benefits. We
support the value of PDM as a program that protects the City and makes Dubuque more
resilient.
Requested Action:
Support and fully fund the Federal Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program at the President's FY
2016 requested level of$200 million.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND CONNECTIVITY
Communications
As a member of the National League of Cities (NLC), the United States Conference of Mayors,
and the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA), the City of
Dubuque joins these organizations in acknowledging that the historic transformation of our
communications infrastructure is essential to the economic competitiveness of the local
governments, states and the nation.
Preserve local authority to manage public rights of way for the benefit of everyone.
Cable television and video franchise agreements are an essential part of managing the rights of
way and ensuring appropriate compensation for the benefit of the public. These benefits include
21
not only monetary payments, but also franchise terms such as support for public, educational
and governmental (PEG) access, including institutional networks (I-Nets).
Protect local authority to establish taxes that are consistent with local needs and
maintain adequate revenue.
Local governments recognize and support efforts to modernize the collection and administration
of local communications taxes, but in a manner that preserves the ability of local government to
impose and collect taxes to fund vital services for its citizens consistent with local values.
Protect and enhance local ability to provide for homeland and hometown security.
Local government's first responders need fully deployed E911 , access to spectrum and funding
for interoperable communications to protect the public.
Recognize local roles in promoting nondiscriminatory access to the full range of
communications services.
Municipalities are helping to bring advanced services to individuals and small businesses. Cities
must have the autonomy necessary to encourage competition and infrastructure deployment
that will lower prices and improve service quality for their citizens.
Requested Action:
• Do not nationalize cable and video franchising.
• Protect local governments' ability to facilitate or offer advanced communications
services to their citizens
• Any changes to the collection and administration of communications taxes, including
extensions or modifications of the Internet Tax Freedom Act, must preserve local
authority to collect revenue consistent with local needs.
• Do not undermine or eliminate support for PEG access and I-Nets. Specifically
support Community Access Preservation (CAP) Act of 2009 (HR3745) by making this
a federal legislative priority
Local Government Principles for Communications Policy Modernization
We believe that Congress and state and local governments can achieve these goals by
embracing the following principles:
• State and Local Authority
The City of Dubuque supports a balanced federalist approach that encourages new innovation
and technology while preserving appropriate authority for state and local governments to protect
their citizens — particularly in relation to public safety and homeland security, promoting local
competition, promoting economic development, taxation, expansion of access to advanced
networks, rights-of-way management, and consumer protection.
• Public Safety
State and local public safety agencies rely heavily on communications services and systems to
protect public safety. In order for states and localities to carry out this mission, it is essential that
important obligations, such as E911 and CALEA, be applied to all relevant communications
platforms, regardless of technology. States and localities must also have sufficient spectrum
and funding to obtain interference-free, interoperable emergency communications. In addition, it
22
is important to preserve and strengthen the ability of state and local government to protect and
warn the public through emergency alert systems.
• Competition
States and localities benefit from, and support, competition and innovation and technology
neutrality. When a fully competitive market does not exist, states and localities must retain the
authority to ensure nondiscriminatory access to essential facilities, to prevent incumbents from
using market power to stifle competition and innovation, and to maintain consumer safeguards
when market forces fail.
• Use of public property and right-of-way
State and local governments are the trustees of public property and must retain the power to
manage those assets for the benefit and safety of the community.
• Municipal Broadband
State and local governments can play an important role in making advanced services, including
broadband services, available to their citizens, based on specific local needs and conditions.
Federal policy should promote the rights of local governments that choose to offer those
services directly to their citizens.
• Video Franchising
the federal government should not preempt or restrict local authority to negotiate mutually
beneficial agreements and grant franchises to video providers. Public, educational, and
governmental channels are important tools citizens use to participate
City of Dubuque Supports:
Legislation that preserves and extends municipal government authority to provide
communications services to their constituents.
Legislation that overturns the FCC cable franchise order and returns to the local franchising
scheme set out in the 1984 Cable Act.
The City of Dubuque opposes a wireless tax moratorium.
Ensuring expanded access to multichannel video programming is an important role of local
government.
• Expanded Access
States and localities support policies and programs that advance access to communications
services and ubiquitous broadband deployment in all areas of the country. Current initiatives
that promote universal and affordable access to communications services include the federal
and state universal service funds, the E-Rate program, Lifeline and Linkup, urban and rural
infrastructure support mechanisms, and obligations ensuring equitable cable and broadband
deployment.
• Taxation
States and localities should retain full flexibility, as does the federal government, to structure
their tax policies in ways that best serves their citizens.
• Consumer Protection
States and localities are best positioned to respond effectively to a wide variety of consumer
23
concerns, including but not limited to complaints related to service quality and affordability,
reliability, deceptive practices, billing practices, privacy, and criminal activity.
• Wireless Zoning and Siting
It is essential for local communities to be able to address the expansion of wireless facilities so
as to promote the deployment of advanced communications while also protecting the interests of
citizens in safety, sound planning, and aesthetic concerns. Cellular carriers have petitioned the
FCC to create new, onerous regulations that would make it more difficult for local governments
to carry out their responsibilities in this area. The Communications Act prohibits such FCC
regulation. Congress should ensure that the balance struck in federal law is not overturned by
agency action.
Local government strongly endorses promoting competition for all consumers and treating like
services alike. The elected leaders of our nation's cities and counties stand ready and willing to
welcome video competition in their communities. Centralizing franchising at the federal or state
level, however, limits the benefits of head-to-head video competition to a chosen few, and
deprives consumers of important protections.
-The FCC
Recent FCC actions to regulate local franchising have compromised local governments' ability
to act in the best interests of their citizens. Congress should act to prevent the FCC from
overstepping its authority and altering the balance of federal, state, and local authority that
Congress established in the Cable Act. The FCC's recent orders fly in the face of the law and
threaten to disrupt long-standing cable television franchise agreements.
The City of Dubuque supports efforts for Internet to remain a level playing field for all and the
FCC to protect an "open internet" sometimes referred to as "Net Neutrality" using Title II of the
Telecommunications Act. The FCC's rules were challenged in federal court, and on January 14,
2014, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit affirmed the
Commission's authority to regulate broadband Internet access service and upheld the
Commission's judgment that Internet openness encourages broadband investment and that its
absence could ultimately inhibit broadband deployment. The court upheld the transparency rule,
but vacated the no-blocking and no-unreasonable-discrimination rules. The court also invited the
FCC to act to preserve a free and open Internet. In response, the FCC on May 15, 2014,
launched a rulemaking seeking public comment on how best to protect and promote an open
Internet. The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking poses a broad range of questions to elicit the
broadest range of input from everyone impacted by the Internet, from consumers and small
businesses to providers and start-ups.
Requested Action:
• States where statewide or state-controlled franchising is currently in place do not see
greater or faster video competition deployment than states where it is not.
• Franchises do not just provide permission to offer video services. They are the core
tools local government uses to manage streets and sidewalks, provide for public safety,
enhance competition, and collect compensation for private use of public land.
Eliminating local franchises deprives local government of the power to perform basic
functions.
• Competition is for everyone. Current national policy implemented through franchises
encourages competition throughout the country, not just in urban or suburban areas
24
and not just for the wealthy. In less than ten years, under the current system,
broadband service has been made available to 91% of all homes passed by cable.
• Neither Congress nor the FCC should try to manage local streets and sidewalks from
Washington. National franchising would abrogate a basic tenet of federalism by
granting companies access to locally owned property on federally defined terms.
• Market factors, not local governments, control the pace of new broadband deployment.
Telephone companies have not yet seriously dedicated resources to negotiate
franchises in many markets. Potential video competitors require relatively few
franchises to implement their announced business plans (for AT&T 1 ,500-2,000
franchises, for Verizon 100-200 franchises).
City/County Emergency Services
The need for a combined 911 Communications Center and Emergency Operations Center
(EOC) has been brought to the forefront of the public safety committee after multiple recent
events. The current communications center is undersized for the needs of our increased
population and calls for service. The center is unable to expand to meet the increasing
demands of the emergency calls and for future technologies. The recent disasters that occurred
in Dubuque County and the State of Iowa brought the need for a dedicated emergency
operations center to the forefront. The city and county now use the classroom areas of the
Dubuque County Firefighters Training Center which is converted as needed to an EOC
operation. An extended flooding event along the Mississippi River or any other long term
disaster would tax the resources of the city and county and the current set up would hamper our
response to disasters. We are experiencing more major weather events and disasters and we
have received seven presidential disaster declarations in the past 12 years. Our 911 center
needs to have room available for expansion. A dedicated EOC will allow local government the
ability to enhance response and recovery operations following an event it would also assist us in
preparing for planned events that overtax our response capabilities.
Requested Action:
Assist the City of Dubuque in identifying funding support for a combined 911 Center/EOC
estimated to cost $12-14 million dollars.
Indian Gaming Regulations
The City is concerned about the uncontrolled growth of Indian Casinos on off premises
(reservation) lands. The City supports legislation that places safeguards on the growth of Indian
casinos.
Requested Action:
• Rewrite Section 20 of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), which authorizes
reservation shopping. This means that under no circumstances can a tribe that
already has land in trust acquire more land that is not contiguous to its reservation,
and use it for gaming. This will put a permanent end to reservation shopping.
• Give local communities a seat at the table during the process to mitigate impacts of
casinos proposed by newly recognized or restored tribes. This means the tribe and
local community must enter into a memorandum of understanding where the tribe
25
must pay the community for mitigation of direct effects of the casino on infrastructure
and services like transportation and public safety.
• Ban any attempts to establish off-reservation casinos outside of the state where the
tribe presently resides.
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP PRIORITIES
AmeriCorps
The City of Dubuque has been active with AmeriCorps Partners in learning program for the past
thirteen years. The program has touched over 850 plus AmeriCorps members giving almost
235,000 hours of service in our community. In the past the program's impact has been seen in
the academic assistance given in classrooms improving performance of children in K-12th grade.
Community organizations such as Multicultural Family Center, Washington Neighborhood
Corporation and Crescent Community Health Center to name a few, impact our citizens in the
lower incomes and neighborhoods needing most assistance. The involvement of AmeriCorps
members is critical to efforts of the city, schools and non-profits. This year the focus is on
improvement of third grade reading scores with most members being placed in the school
system at the K-3 rd grade level. Impressive results are already being seen.
AmeriCorps VISTA members have also been used by the City. Currently the City has a VISTA
working with Sustainable Dubuque efforts and a second one as a Volunteer Coordinator to
establish a volunteer program for the City, as well as its many non-profits and addressing
disaster preparedness related to volunteers. Three VISTA members work with a community-
wide Campaign for Grade Level Reading Initiative in the areas of school readiness, attendance
and summer learning and a fourth VISTA member coordinates data and performance measures.
The capacity building efforts are very important to these three powerful initiatives of the City.
Dubuque is home to the first in the nation National Service Partnership. All the AmeriCorps
programs in Dubuque meet collaborate and share information.
Requested Action:
Support AmeriCorps and funding for National Service Partnership.
Youth Re-engagement
The city and its partners support legislation for youth re-engagement efforts that are designed to
re-engage out-of-school youth and that provide multiple routes to high school completion,
college, and career readiness. Rep. Polis' (D-Colorado) currently has draft legislation that has
been reviewed by a network of re-engagement programs from across the country that would
provide state and district funding. The draft Dropout Recovery Bill calls for the following:
• To provide grant funding to district partnerships to significantly increase the rate of
recovery for out-of-school youth in earning a high school diploma on a pathway to post-
secondary success;
• To incentivize and support the expansion and effectiveness of out-of-school youth
reengagement programs that identify, re-enroll, and provide an individualized program
that meets needs of out-of-school youth and leads to post-secondary success
26
• To incentivize states and districts to develop funding and accountability policies that
facilitate, and remove barriers to, the sustainable expansion of programs designed to re-
engage out-of-school youth and that provide multiple routes to high school completion,
college- and career-readiness, and the transition into post-secondary and career; and
• To create a national exchange on effective practices, as well as other efforts, to support
out-of-school youth reengagement policies and programs.
Requested Action:
The city supports the draft Drop-Out Recovery bill or similar legislation which supports
the engagement of federal, state and district level leadership, policy and funding to
reverse the growing trend of out-of-school youth.
America's River at the Port of Dubuque:
The National Mississippi River Museum will be the nation's premier center to interpret
and preserve the Mississippi River's natural environment and history, inspire a global
audience, and create more knowledgeable and engaged citizens.
River of Innovation: As the premier Mississippi River educational institution in the world, the
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium will inspire the next generation of River
explorers, improve science literacy, encourage environmental advocacy and sustainability
efforts, conduct original research, and increase the diversity and size of its audiences
1. Dynamic Experiences: We will inspire and engage a global audience with compelling
and dynamic exhibits and programmatic experiences.
2. Education Lab: We will measure and monitor our impact on our global audience and
work with our partners to create and develop educational programs that make a
difference in the lives of our audience.
3. Mississippi River Research Labs: We will use the Museum & Aquarium as a research
facility to propagate threatened species and to showcase local, regional and national
scientific discoveries, museum collections, habitats, and endangered species as they
pertain to the Mississippi River.
4. Facilities, Collections & Energy Sustainability: We will raise the bar on energy
efficiency and conservation efforts to protect collections and maintain and improve our
facilities.
Opportunities for New and Continued Federal Partnerships:
• Continue to work with USFW and other federal and state agencies to study, nurture, and
propagate important species which are endangered or threatened and are typically not
the primary focus of state DNRs. These species have included mussels, mud puppies,
salamanders, toads and other species.
• Work with USDA and others to engage people to reduce nutrient loading, understand
sediment flow, and improve water quality for the Mississippi, its 31 state watershed, and
the Gulf of Mexico.
27
• Work with University of Iowa Flood Center and other regional and federal partners to
raise awareness of flood prevention and flood control. The Museum has several
partnerships with Federal agencies which can be explored for funding opportunities. The
Museum is on the executive committee of Coastal America which works with NOAA,
EPA, US Fish & Wildlife, Department of Agriculture and other agencies.
Requested Action:
We ask for support for the peer review competitive grants listed below which we have
applied for and are currently under deliberation at IMLS and NEH.
1 . Institute for Museum & Library Services
Grant: Museums for America
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Title: Learning Experiences: Mississippi Delta Touch Pool & Mangrove Habitat
Application Date: 12/1/2014 Requested Amount: $150,000
2. Institute for Museum & Library Services
Grant: Museums for America
Dubuque County Historical Society
Title: Collections Stewardship: Collections Documentation Project
Application Date: 12/1/2014 Requested Amount: $150,000
3. National Endowment for the Humanities
Grant: Sustaining Cultural Heritage Collections
Dubuque County Historical Society
Title: Planning for a Sustainable Preservation Environment
Application Date: 12/3/2014 Requested Amount: $40,000
Mines of Spain- E.B. Interpretive Center
The Mines of Spain State Recreation Area is a national historic site with rich historic and
archeological resources. It includes a state nature preserve and adjoins the Upper Mississippi
Fish and Wildlife Refuge.
The 30 — acre E. B. Lyons Interpretive Center/ Mines of Spain State Recreational Area has more
than doubled with the acquisition of 52 acres in 2013. Land acquisition was funded by state
grants, private contributions and federal Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grant.
In 2014, design work was completed for expanding interpretive opportunities with construction of
a multi-use trail, an outdoor classroom, interpretive kiosks, and additional parking. Development
was funded with a federal LWCF grant, state grants and private contributions.
Additional land acquisition will enhance and increase the park's cultural, natural, and
recreational opportunities available to area residents and visitors while buffering the park from
surrounding development.
Requested Action:
The Mines of Spain asks for continued support for the Land and Water Conservation
Fund and for AmeriCorps program which provides staff for myriad tasks at the Mines of
Spain.
28