Urban Revitalization Areas - Old Main, Cathedral, LangworthyMEMORANDUM
October 29, 2002
TO:The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM:Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
SUBJECT:New Urban Revitalization Plans for Three Historic Districts
Housing and Community Development Department Director David Harris recommends
establishment of the Langworthy, Old Main and Cathedral Urban Revitalization areas.
The plan will provide for the expansion of the Urban Revitalization Program to include
all five historic preservation districts.
I concur with the recommendation, however, final consideration by the Mayor and City
Council cannot be given tonight because there is a 30-day waiting period when a
petition for a second public hearing can be submitted.
MCVM/jh
Attachment
cc: Barry Lindahl, Corporation Counsel
Cindy Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager
David Harris, Housing and Community Development Director
CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA
MEMORANDUM
October 24, 2002
TO: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
FROM: David Harris, Housing and Community Development Department
SUBJECT: New Urban Revitalization Plans for Three Historic Districts
Introduction
The propose of this memorandum is to request the City Council to adopt the attached
ordinance establishing the Langworthy, Old Main and Cathedral Urban Revitalization
Areas.
Background
On September 9, the City Council adopted a resolution setting a public h~earing for
November 4 2002 on the Old Main, Cathedral and Langworthy Urban Revitalization Area
Plans. The plans will provide for the expansion of the Urban Revitalization Program to all
five historic districts.
Discussion
The Old Main, Cathedral and Langworthy Urban Revitalization districts will have the same
provisions as the existing Washington, Jackson, and West 11th Street urban revitalization
districts. In addition, the Old Main district will require that all of a property's square footage
must be used for residential purposes in order to qualify for the program, instead of the
75% minimum allowed by State law. This is necessary since the district is located within
an urban renewal area where property taxes for eligible improvements can be collected for
tax increment financing (TIF).
At the public hearing, the Council will not be able to adopt the plan becabse the Iowa Code
requires that property owners and tenants of a proposed district be given thirty days
following the first hearing to petition for a second hearing. A second hearing must be held
only if the City receives within the thirty days a valid petition from at least ten percent of
owners or tenants within the designated revitalization area. If such a petition is submitted,
the City Council may set at second public hearing and proceed to act upbn the proposed
plan following that headng. If no such petition is presented, the Council Imay simply adopt
the proposed plan following the thirty-day period. The attached ordinance directs the City
Clerk to publish the Ordinance following the 30-day period if no valid petition for a second
headng is filed.
Recommendation
I recommend that the City Council approve the ordinance authorizing adoption of the Old
Main, Cathedral and Langworthy Urban Revitalization Area Plans on or after December 5
2002 if no valid petition for a second hearing is filed.
Action Requested
The Action Step is for the City Council to adopt the attached ordinance.
Prepared by: Aggie Kramer, Cornmunity Development Specialist
F:~Users',AKRAMER\Urban Revite\PlanningUR'~"list Dist UR ord mere.doc
ORDINANCE NO; 87-02
AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING THE LANGWORTHY URBAN
REVITALIZATION AREA, OLD MAIN URBAN REVITALIZATION AREA,
AND CATHEDRAL URBAN REVITALIZATION AREA AS URBAN
REVITALIZATION AREAS PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 404 OF THE
CODE OF IOWA.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF DUBUQUE, IOWA:
Section 1. That the Langworthy Revitalization Area hereinafter described shall
hereafter be designated an urban revitalization area pursuant to Chapter 404 of the
Code of Iowa 2001, to wit:
Beginning at the northeast corner of Nevada Street and 3~d Street, continue north
until 394 Nevada, exclude 394 Nevada and all buildings facing Nevada and
continue north to
5th Street, turn east and include 490 Nevada and continue south,
continue behind the buildings facing Melrose Terrace to Paulina Street, follow
Paulina Street south then continue south on Winona Street, turn left on 34 Street to
the corner of Hill Street, continue south on Hill Street and continue west behind
buildings facing Langworthy Street then at 1170 Langworthy Street turn south to
Solon Street, turn west on Solon Street turn north to continue behind buildings
facing Alpine Street and north through the alleyway between Nevada Street and
Alpine Street to the starting point all in the City of Dubuque, Iowa.
Section 2. That the Old Main Urban Revitalization Area hereinafter described
shall hereafter be designated an urban' revitalization area pursuant to Chapter 404 of
the Code of Iowa 2001, to wit:
Beginning at the comer of First Street and the alley between Iowa Street and
Main Street, continuing southwest~long EimtStreet to thealley between Main Street
and Locust Street, northwest to the corner of Fourth Street and Main Street (400 block),
southwest to the comer of Fourth Street and Main Street (300 block), northeast on
Fourth Street and including buildings facing Main Street, continue south (inclusion of all
buildings facing Main Street) to the corner of First Street and the alley between Iowa
Street and Main Street, all in the City of Dubuque, Iowa.
Section 3. That the Cathedral Urban Revitalization Area hereinafter described
shall hereafter be designated an urban revitalization area pursuant to Chapter 404 of
the Code of Iowa 2001, to wit:
Beginning at the comer of Locust Street and Jones Street continuing westward
along Jones Street to Bluff Street, westward on Emmett Street to the corner of St.
Mary's Street, north along St. Mary's Street to the corner of Third Street, east along
Third Street to the corner of Bluff Street, north along Bluff: Street to the corner of Fourth
Street, west along Fourth Street until its end, from the comer of Bluff Street and Fourth
Street continue north to the corner of Fifth Street and continue west for one block, from
the comer of Bluff Street and Fifth Street continue north along Bluff Street until 759
Bluff Street, including only the westward side of the 700 block, continue south to
Seventh Street, continue east along Seventh Street to the corner of Locust Street,
south on Locust Street to the corner of Third Street, continue west on Third Street until
the alleyway between Locust Street and Bluff Street, continue south on the alleyway
until reaching the alleyway between First Street and Jones Street, continue along this
alleyway until reaching Locust Street and continue south to the comer of Locust Street
and Jones Street, in the City of Dubuque, Iowa.
Section 2. That the Langworthy Revitalization Plan, the Old Main Urban
Revitalization Plan and the Cathedral Urban Revitalization Plan as hereto attached are
hereby adopted and approved and the properties within said described areas shall be
subject to the provisions of said Plans.
Section 3. That said Langworthy Revitalization Plan, the Old Main Urban
Revitalization Plan and the Cathedral Urban Revitalization Plan shall hereafter be on
file in the City Clerk's Office, City Hall, Dubuque, Iowa.
Passed, approved and adopted this 4th, day of November 2002.
Terrance M. Duggan, Mayor
Attest:
Karen M. Chesterman
Deputy City Clerk
F:%Users~AKRAMER%Urban Re~te'~ARC UR~ARC UR Ord.doc
T~rance M. Dug~or
MEMORANDUM
September 9, 2002
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
SUBJECT: New Urban Revitalization Plans for Three Historic Districts
Housing and Community Development Department Director David Harris recommends
that the Old Main, Cathedral, and Langworthy historic districts be des gnated as Urban
Revitalization districts; and that a public hearing be set for November 4, 2002.
I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council
approval.
Michael C Van Milligen
MCVM/jh
Attachment
cc: Barry Lindahl, Corporation Counsel
Cindy Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager
David Harris, Housing and Community Development Department Director
CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA
MEMORANDUM
September 5, 2002
TO: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
FROM: David Harris, Housing and Community Development Department.
SUBJECT: New Urban Revitalization Plans for Three Historic Districts
Introduction
This memorandum recommends that the City Council set a public hearing to consider
designating the Old Main, Cathedral, and Langworthy historic districts as Urban
Revitalization Districts.
Background
Chapter 404 of the iowa Code (Urban Revitalization Act) authorizes cities to designate
areas as urban revitalization areas. Improvements to qualified real estate within these
designated areas may receive a total or partial exemption from property taxes for a
specified number of years. The exemptions are intended to stimulate private investment
by abating tax increases that usually accompany property improvements. This additional
private investment provides a long-term increase or stabilization in the area's tax base,
enhances the viability of revitalization areas and/or supports important city objectives such
as historic preservation, economic development and affordable housing development
In order to implement the provisions of Chapter 404, the City must prepare a revitalization
plan for each designated area and hold at least one public hearing after proper notice.
The taw mandates specific criteria and procedures that must be followed:
The City's Urban Revitalization Program offers a ten-year property tax abatement for
eligible improvements to residential properties in designated revitalization districts.
Discussion
In February 2001, the City Council approved the expansion of the Urban Revitalization
Program to all five historic districts, in the histodc downtown area, there are currently four
urban revitalization districts: Washington, Jackson, West 11th Street, and Upper Main. Only
two historic districts, West 11th Street and Jackson Park, are located in Urban revitalization
districts. The Old Main, Cathedral, and Langworthy historic districts would now be designated
as Urban Revitalization districts with adoption of the attached plans.
The Urban Revitalization plans for the Old Main, Cathedral, and Langworthy districts will have
the same provisions as the existing Washington, Jackson, and West 11th Street urban
revitalization districts. In addition, the Old Main district will require that all of a property's
square footage must be used for residential purposes in order to qualify for the program,
instead of the 75% minimum allowed by State law. This is necessary since the district is
located within an urban renewal area where property taxes for eligible impi'overnents can be
collected for tax increment financing (TlF).
Chapter 404 provides for a public comment period prior to the adoption of an urban
revitalization plan. Additionally, the City's Code of ordinances requires coimment by the
Long Range Planning Commission on any urban revitalization plan. Based upon these
requirements, the Council is requested to set a public hearing for November 4, 2002 that
will provide a 30 day comment period on the amended plan. All property OWners within the
areas will be notified. The Long Range Planning Commission will review the plan at their
October 16th meeting.
At the public hearing, the Council will be able to approve the plans and pass a first reading
of an ordinance designating the areas as urban revitalization districts. A second hearing
must be held only if the City receives within the thirty days a valid petition from at least ten
percent of owners or tenants within the designated revitalization area. If such a petition is
submitted, the City Council may set a second public hearing and proceed to act upon the
proposed Plan following that hearing. If no such petition is presented, the City Council may
simply adopt the proposed plan following the thirty day period.
Recommendation
I recommend that the City Council approve the attached resolution setting the public
hearing for November 4, 2002 to consider designating the Old Main, Cathedral, and
Langworthy histor c districts as Urban Revitalization districts. At the public hearing an
ordinance can be adopted which directs the City Clerk to publish the ordinance following
the 30 day period if no valid petition for a second hearing is filed. This will expedite the
process.
By providing incentives for people to renovate and repair historic structures, the City can
retain and upgrade our existing housing stock, help revitalize neighborhoods, and improve
the quality of life in Dubuque.
Action Requested
The Action Step is for the City Council to adopt the attached resolution.
Prepared by: Aggie Kramer, Community Development Specialist
F:\Users',AKRAMER\Urban Revite~PlanningUR\Hist Dist UR memo 02.doc
RESOLUTION NO. -02
RESOLUTION FINDING THAT THE DESIGNATION OF OLD MAI~N,
CATHEDRAL AND LANGWORTHY URBAN REVITALIZATION PLANS ARE
NECESSARY IN THE INTEREST OF THE PUBLIC HEALTH, SAFETY AND
WELFARE OF THE RESIDENTS OF THE CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA AND
PROVIDING FOR A PUBLIC HEARING THEREON.
Whereas, the City Council of the City of Dubuque finds that properties in the Old
Main, Cathedral and Langworthy historic districts are in an area in which ithere is a
predominance of buildings or improvements which by reason age, history, architecture
or significance should be preserved or restored to productive use; and ,
Whereas Chapter 404 of the Code of Iowa provides for the estab!ishment of an
urban revitalization area for such properties following a pub c hearing. '
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL! OF THE CITY
OF DUBUQUE, IOWA:
Section 1. That the rehabilitation, conservation and redevelopment of the areas
described in the attached Langworthy Revitalization Plan, the Old Main Urban
Revitalization Plan and the Cathedral Urban Revitalization Plan are foUnd to be
necessary in the interest of the public health, safety and welfare of the residents of
the City, to wit:
Section 2. That the Langworthy Revitalization Plan, the Old Maini Urban
Revitalization Plan and the Cathedral Urban Revitalization Plan as proposed meet
the eligibility criteria of Chapter 404.1 of the Code of Iowa, 2001.
Section 3. That the aforementioned,~,~ ~'~'"~vo,,, ~.e.,,a,,~a,,on'';* ~;~ +i Plans st3all be a matter..
of record and shall be available for pubic inspection in the office of the City Clerk at
City Hall, 50 West 13~ Street, Dubuque, Iowa.
Section 4. That the City is authorized and directed to submit the aforementioned
Urban Revitalization Plans to the City's Long Range Planning Adviso~ Commission
for review and comment; and
Section 5. That the City Clerk is directed to publish notice of a pablic hearing on
the aforementioned Urban Revitalization Area Plans to be held on NoYember 4, 2002
at 6:30 p.m. in the Carnegie Stout Library Auditorium, 360 West 11th Street,
Dubuque, Iowa 52001; and
Section 6. That the owners of record and tenants living within the proposed
areas will be notified by the thirtieth day pdor to the public hearing.
Passed, approved and adopted this day of September 2002.
Attest:
Terrance M. Duggan, Mayor
Jeanne F. Schneider, City Clerk
F:\Us~rs',AKRAMER~Urban Rev[te\PlanningUR',Historic Dist UR Res,doc
CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA
MEMORANDUM
April 9, 2001
TO:Historic Preservation Commission
FROM:Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager
SUBJECT: Expansion of the Urban Revitalization Program
Introduction
On February 19, 2001, the City Council approved the expansion of the urban revitalization
program to include all histodc districts. Presently, only two of the five historic districts are
in this program. This memo transmits the recommendation of the City staff regarding the
proposed provisions for expansion of the urban revitalization program to the three
remaining historic districts. A map of the historic districts and the four existing urban
revitalization districts in the downtown area is enclosed.
Back.qround
Iowa Code Chapter 404.1 lists five reasons for which a city or county may establish urban
revitalization plans. These are: 1) the existence of numerous buildings that are dilapidated
or deteriorated; 2) the need for preservation and restoration of buildings due to their
historic significance; 3) the area is appropriated as an economic development region as
defined in iowa Code 403.17; 4) the need for public improvements related to housing; and
5) the encouragement of housing and residential development. State law also states that
at least 75% of a participating property's square footage must be used for residential
purposes in order to qualify for the program.
The City's urban revitalization program offers a property tax exemption for intedor and
extedor improvements that increase the tax assessment, and in turn the property taxes,
for the residential property in older neighborhoods. Owners may receive a ten-year
exemption from the property tax increase due to the improvements. Maintenance is not
included in this program.
Presently, only the West 1tth Street and Jackson Park historic districts are part of the
urban revitalization program. An expansion of the urban revitaiization program to include
the Old Main, Cathedral and Langworthy historic districts in this program would encourage
long term property maintenance in these older neighborhoods.
Urban Revitalization Districts
Page 2
Discussion
The four existing urban revitalization districts in the historic downtown area have different
provisions for allowable improvements. These differences appear to be related to the
types of buildings and mix of uses within the individual areas. The four existing urban
revitalization districts, and their provisions for allowable improvements, are as follows:
UR District Creation Sunset Building Additions New
Improvements Construction
Washington 1980's none yes yes no
Jackson 1980's none yes yes no
West 11th St. 1980's none yes yes no
Upper Main 1995 25 years yes no no
In addition, the Old Main historic district is located within an urban renewal area. The
urban renewal area involves collecting taxes for the tax increment financing (TIF)
program, which contradicts the tax abatement, which exists under the urban
revitalization plan.
Due to these differences, the City Council asked the Commission to review the differing
provisions for the existing urban revitalization areas, and then recommend whether to
use a common set of provisions for all urban revitalization areas, or to have unique
provisions for individual areas.
Recommendation
The City staff recommends that the provisions for allowable improvements in the new
urban revitalization areas for the Old Main, Cathedral and Langworthy historic districts
have the same provisions as the Washington, Jackson and West 11th Street urban
revitalization areas.
in addition, the City staff recommends that the urban revitalization provisions for the Old
main area be limited to residential purposes. That is, 100% of a participating property's
square footage must be used for residential purposes in order to qualify for the
program, instead of the 75% minimum allowed by State law. With this additional
provision, both urban renewal and urban revitalization plans may coexist, since the Old
Main urban revitalization plan will be restricted to residential development.
enclosure Icarsten/vFp/hpc/u rexp.rn ern .doc
Map of Urban Revitalization
and Historic Districts
Planning Services Department
City Hall
50 West 13th Street
Dubuque, Iowa 5200/-4864
(563) 589-4210. office
(563) 589-4221
(563) 690-6678 TDD
planning@cityofdubuque.org
August 30, 2002
The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
City of Dubuque
City Hall - 50 W. 13th Street
Dubuque, IA 52001
RE: Expansion of Urban Revitalization Program to All Historic Districts
Dear Mayor and City Council Members:
Introduction
The Historic Preservation Commission is requesting that the City Council adopt urban
revitalization plans that will expand the Urban Revitalization Program to all historic districts.
A staff report and a map are attached for your consideration.
Discussion
In February 2001, the City Council approved the expansion of the Urban Revitalization
Program to all five histodc districts. This was one of the historic preservation incentives
recommended by the Historic Preservation Commission and the Preservation Task Force
in 2001.
The City's Urban Revitalization Program offers a ten year property tax abatement for
eligible improvements to residential properties in designated revitalization districts. In the
historic downtown area, there are four urban revitalization districts: Washington, Jackson,
West 11th Street, and Upper Main. Only two historic districts, West 11th Street and Jackson
Park, are located in urban revitalization districts. The expansion of the Urban Revitalization
Program would include the Old Main, Cathedral, and Langworthy historic districts.
The Washington, Jackson, and West 11th Street urban revitalization districts have the
same provisions for allowable improvements, and do not have a sunset clause. The Upper
Main urban revitalization district, however, has a 25 year sunset clause and allows fewer
eligible improvements. The City Council asked the Historic Preservation Commission to
review the differing provisions, and then recommend whether to use a common set of
provisions or individualized provisions. In addition, the Old Main historic district is located
within an urban renewal area, where properS, taxes for eligible improvements can be
collected for tax increment financing (TIF). The Commission evaluated hew the TIF and
abatement provisions could both apply in Old Main.
Expansion of Urban Revitalization Program
Page 2
Recommendation
The Commission recommends using the provisions of the Washington, Jackson, and West
11th Street urban revitalization districts for the Old Main, Cathedral, and Langworthy historic
districts. The Commission also recommends that the Old Main urban revitalization distdct
be limited to residential purposes, so that the urban revitalization and urban renewal
programs for this historic area can coexist.
Urban revitalization plans for the Old Main, Cathedral, and Langworthy ihistoric districts
were prepared for your review and approval based on these recommendations. We would
greatly appreciate your adoption of these urban revitalization plans.
By providing incentives for people to renovate and repair historic structures, the City can
retain and upgrade our existing housing stock, help revitalize neighborhoods, and improve
the quality of life in Dubuque.
Sincerely,
Christopher Wand, Chairperson
Historic Preservation Commission
Enclosures
CCDavid Harris Housing & Community Development Director
Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager
Icarstens/wp/hpcFur exp,ltr, doc
Langworthy Revitalization Plan
June 2002
1.0 Introduction
The following plan describes certain provisions of the Iowa Urban Revitalization Act and
proposes the creation and designation of a Langworthy Urban Revitalization area.
The State of Iowa, under Iowa Code Chapter 404, allows cities to designate areas as
urban revitalization districts. Under this Act, improvements to qualified areas may
receive a total or partial exemption from property taxes for a specified number of years.
The exemptions are intended to stimulate private investment by the reduction of tax
increases related to property improvements.
Once an area is deemed to meet the requirements established in Chapter 404, a plan must
be established which identifies the district boundaries, property owners, existing
conditions, proposed plans and the basic abatement provisions for the revitalization area.
Iowa Code Chapter 404.1 lists five reasons for which a city or county may establish
urban revitalization ptans. These include: the existence of numerous buildings that are
dilapidated or deteriorated; the need for preservation and mst, oration ofbui!dings due to
their historic significance; the area is appropriated as an economic development region as
defined in Iowa Code 403.17; the need for public improvements related to housing; and
the encouragement of housing and residential development. The law also states that at
least 75% of a participating property's square footage must be used for residential
purposes in order to qualify for the program. The Langworthy Urban Revitalization Plan
will be based upon the need for tbe encouragement of the preservation and restoration of
historic buildings within the area and for the encouragement of housing and residential
development
2.0 The Area
2.1 Location
Addendum Map 1 identifies the location of the Revitalization District. As indicated
on the map, this area is generally located from 115 Alpine Street through to its 400
block and is bordered by Hill Street and Paulina Street to the east and Alpine Slreet
to the west.
The boundaries of the district are:
Beginning at the northeast comer of Nevada Street and 3rd Street, continue north
until 394 Nevada, exclude 394 Nevada and all buildings facing Nevada and continue
north to 5th Street, turn east and include 490 and go south, nm behind the buildings
facing Mekose Terrace to Paulina Street, follow Paulina Street south then continue
south on Winona Street, turn left on 3rd Street to the comer of Hill Street, continue
south on hill Street and run west behind buildings facing Langworthy Street then at
Langworthy Urban Revitalization Plan
June 2002
Page 2
1170 Langworthy Street mm south to Solon Street, turn west on Solon street trun
north to run behind buildings facing Alpine Street and north through the alleyway
between Nevada Street and Alpine Street to the starting point.
2.2 Zoning
Map 2 shows the existing zoning districts. Approximately 14.658 acres, or 75%, are
zoned as R-1 (single family residential district) and the remaining 2.687 acres or 14%
is zoned as R-2 (two family residential district). Of the eighw-three parcels inside
the district, sixty-one parcels or 73.5%, are zoned as R-I, while eleven or 13.3%, are
zoned as R-2.
2.3 Existing and Proposed Land Use
Map 3 identifies the existing primary land use for the proposed district. Eighty-three
parcels are within the district. Of these, 61 (73.5%) are in single-family Use; 9
(10.8%) are for two family use; 2 (2.4%) are under multi-family use; and 11 (13.3%)
are vacant.
The total acreage of the Langworthy Urban Revitalization District is 19.486 acres.
The land use acreages for the Revitalization District are: 14.658 acres (75%) for
single family use; 2.379 acres (12%) for two family use; 0.308 acres (1.5%) for
multi-family use; 0.7 acres (3.6%) for secondary use of office space; 0.204 acres
( 1 %) for secondary use of commercial space, and the remaining 2.141 acres (11%)
are vacant.
Map 4 shows the secondary usage for the buildings in the Revitalization District.
Within the district there are two different secondary uses. Due to certain parcels
having single story buildings as their primary use, 68 parcels of the 83 parcels have
no secondary usage. Eleven of the properties are vacant. The four remaining parcels
are designated as single-family use. Secondary use on three of the parcels (75%) is
office, while the remaining parcel is used for commercial purposes. The acreage for
secondary use is 0.7 acres 0.6%) for office space and 0.204 acres (1%) for
commercial use.
2.4 Assessed Valuations and Owners of Records
The existing assessed valuation of the real estate in. the Revitalization District, listing
land and building values separately, is included in Chart 1. Also in Chart 1 is a list of
the names and addresses of the current owners of record of real estate within the
District.
2.5 City Services
This area is served by city services.
3.0 Relocation
No relocation should occur due to the rehabilitation of the remaining vacant space on
the paracels identified for expansion under existing and proposed land use. Should
Langworthy Urban Revitalization Plan
June 2002
Page 3
relocation occur as a result of rehabilitation in the proposed district, the person(s)
causing a qualified tenant to be displaced shall pay al! of the relocation costs of the
tenant as a condition for receiving a tax-exemption under Iowa Code Section 404.3.
4.0 Qualification of Areas
In 2002, a building condition survey was conducted by the Planning Servieas
Department in order to determine the boundaries for the urban revitalization area and
the criteria to be used by the City Council to make a finding. Land use information
concerning existing uses, building ages and building conditions was collected in
order to document the conditions of deterioration that presently exist.
4.1 Historic Significance
The entire area proposed for the Langworthy Urban Revitalization District is within
the Laugworthy Historic Preservation District. Chapter 25, Historic Preservation, of
the City Code, regulates alteration of building exteriors, new construction, additions,
and demolition. In 1979 an architectural survey was done using five classifications:
state or national; city; neighborhood; supportive; and non-supportive.
Approximately 41% of the one hundred and eight structures located within the
Langworthy Urban Revitalization District were classified as having a non-supportive
significance. The remaining structures were classified as the following: 32%
neighborhood; 18% supportive; 6% city; 3% state or national; and .9% not
evaluated. Map 5 shows the classifications of the buildings within the Langworthy
Urban Revitalization District.
4.2 Building Conditions
The results of the building conditions survey are provided in Chart 3. Major
structural components were considered in rating building conditions. These
components were ranked as good, fair, or poor under the following criteria:
Good.' The building appeared to be structurally sound and free of major defects.
Ongoing maintenance such as window repair, re-pointing and painting was
evident. Of the seventy-three buildings reviewed seventy-two, or 99%, qualified
under this category.
Fair: The building has been the victim of deferred maintenance. As a result such
conditions as wood or mortar decay, window repair, roof repair and rock-pointing
needs exist The correction of these conditions may require complete replacement
and may constitute a hardship or lack of feasibility on the part of the property
owner, thus retarding the provision of housing accommodations, or constitute an
economic or social liability. None of the buildings fell into this category.
Poor: The building has been the victim of little or no maintenance during recent
years;. This results in the need of major repairs in the building including, but not
limited to: foundation, roofing, siding, mortar, windows, doors, tuck-pointing,
Langworthy Urban RevRatizatian Plan
June 2002
Page 4
and structural supports. Correction of these conditions will require complete
replacement if applicable or major renovation and could possibly constitute a
hardship or lack of feasibility on the part of the property owner. One structure, or
1%, out of seventy-three buildings qualified for this category.
5.0 Revitalization Program
5.1 Tax Exemption
a) All residential property, assessed either as residential or commercial, in the
revitalization area shall be eligible for tax abatement.
b)The abatement incentive is intended to bring back to useful purpose the vacant or
underutilized buildings, which ex/st in the revitalization area. Tax abatement
shall be available only for the rehabilitation of existing strictures in the
revitalization area, not for the new construction of additions or separate buildings.
c)The tax abatement schedule shall offer the same exemption opportunity as is
available in other Urban Revitalization Disixicts so designated in the City of
Dubuque. Therefore, a ten-year 100% exemption on the actualvalue added by
the improvements as provided in Iowa Code Section 404.3 (4) shall be established
as part of this Plan.
d)The percent increase in value shall also reflect the standard used in other urban
revitalization districts in the city. The actual value of the building(s) to which
improvements have been made must have increased the assessed value by at least
fifteen percent before abatement is applied. Each year that an application is made
for tax abatement, the assessed value must have increased in that year by at least
fifteen percent.
e)The proposed area shall remain as a revitalization area commencing upon the
adoption of the ordinance approving this revitalization district by the City
Council.
5.2 Availability of funding
There are at present many active programs, which may provide a source Of funding
for residential and commercial improvements to the proposed district. These include:
Community Development Block Grant Funds (CDBG), HOME funds, Historic
Preservation Revolving Loan Fund, and Historic Preservation Homeowner Grant
Program.
6.0 Conclusion
The proposed urban revitalization district will assist the rehabilitation efforts of
several vacant or deteriorating properties by providing needed housing units for the
citizens of Dubuque and the surrounding arem After the ten-year abatement period
lapses on these projects, the full assessed value of the rehabilitation property will go
on the tax rolls to the benefit of the entire community.
Langworthy Urban Revitalization District
Boundaries 2002
Langworthy Urban Revitalization district:
Zoning 2002
Langworthy Urban Revitalization District
Land Use 2002
Langworthy Urban Revitalization District:
Secondary Land Use 2002
Langworthy Historic Significance
LANGWORTHY URBAN REVITALIZATION DISTRICT
Primary Landuse # of Parcel~ %
'2~FAMILY 9 !0.8%
MULTI-FAMILY 2 2.4%
SINGLE-FAMILY 61 73.5%
VACANT 11 13.3%
83 100%
Secondary Landuse
OFFICE i 3 3.6%
COMMERCIAL 1 1.2%
VACANT 11 13.3%
NO USE 68 81.9%
83 100%I
Langworthy Urban Revialization District '
parcetlD Condition Address Bualnaes HI;on1 2ndLU Hlstori~ Sq. Footage #floora OvmerName OwnerAddreas City, State ZIpGode
i0.25.159.019 189 Hill SF N Neighborhood 1145.27 2.5 KOONTZ, lAN M 189 HILL DUBUQUE II 52001
1090 PECKOSH, PAUL J & 1090
10,25.159.018 Lartgwolthy SF N State or National 2471.81 2.5 PAMELA M LANGWORTHY DUBUQUE I/ 52001
1110 FORDICE, BILLY D & 1110
10.25.159.o10 Langworthy SF N Supportive 1794.17 2 DEBORAHJ LANQWORTHY DUBUQUEIA 52001
1120 KR~JC-GER, EDWARD J & 1120
'10.25.159,0~9 Langworthy SF N Non.~[!~?rtive !;~:;n~;R 2.5 CATHERINE LANGWORTHY DUBUQUEIA 52001
1132 (LOPFENSTEIN. JEFFREY 1134
10.25,159,~08 Langwodhy ~;F N Non.~[~p?~tive IO22.01 iL& ANGWORTHY DUBUQUE IA 52001.
1148 11~
10.25.159.007 Langworthy BF N Supportive 1268,7~; 2.E FURY. THOMAS R & ANN M LANGWORTHY DUBUQUE IA 52001
'10.25.159.006 NA V V FURY, THOMAS R & ANN M LANGWORTHY DUBUQUE I,~ 52001
1170-1172 1170
10.25.159,005 Langwodhy 2F N Non-Supportive 1425.56 2 MEADE, LORRAINE K LANGWORTHY DUBUQUE I~ 52001
194-196.108 GARRITY. MICHAEL J & GRANDVIEW
10.25,159,001 Alpine MF iN Neighborhood 3162.32 2,5 DIANA B AVE DUBUQUE I,~ 52003
575 ENGLISH
10.25.159.002 176 Alpine MF ~i Supportive 2,~31.03 2.5 S & W PROPERTIES LANE DUBUQUE I! 52005
' CHEVALIER, DENNIS A &
10.25,159.003 154Alpine SF N ~on-$~r~rtive 1009.65 1,5 RUTH M 154ALPINE DUBUQUE IA 5200[
10.25,t 59.004 116 Alpine SF N Supportive 1946.93 2.5 MURPHY, ANN M 116 ALPINE DUBUQUE IA 52(,d
- MC DONELL, DALE J &
10.26,1~ c,p.a 115AIplne BF N Supportive 1567.08 2.5 SHERRY J 115 ALPINE DUBUQUE IA 52001
BOWER, JEFFREY L &
10.25.158,008 tSSAIpine BF N Neighborhood 1530,76 2.5 CHRISTINEA ~t35ALPINE DUBUQUE IA 52001
NY'-, DANIEL EVANS &
10.25,158.007 155 Alpine 2F N Neighborhood 2222.t8 2.5 ~TIEE 155 ALPINE DUBUQUE IA 52001
10.25.158.O06 t 75 Alpine ZF N Non-Supportive 1443,04 :EBY, JOHN C & KRISTEN R 75 ALPINE DUBUQUE IP 5zu~l
~/IGGINTON. KARLE F &
10.25.158.005 195 Alpine SF N 1946,1~ 2.~ '~ARY SETH 195 ALPINE DUBUQUE I,~ 52001
~Nallaoe Riohard ~VALLACE. RICHARD L &
10.25,156.012 G~od ~25 Alpine Ins. Agte 5F O Neighborhned 2286.5~ 2.5 ~JANCY M 225 ALPINE DUBUQUE I,~ 52001!
I0.25.156.0'tl (~o~d' ;'39Alpine SF N Supportive 1944.77 2 5CHRUP. LAURA K 239ALPINE DUBUQUE I,~ 52001
~ 5ANDERS'; THOMAS J &
10,25.156,010 Good ~65AIpine SF N Neighborhood 2475.76 2.5 5ALLYW 265ALPINE DUBUQUE II 52001
ROTH, JAMES J &
10.25.156.009 Good 285 Alpine SF N Supportiva 2740.00 2 JACQUEMNE A 285 ALPINE DUBUQUE IA 52001
QOWDY, SUSAN BISSELL
10.25.152.011 NA V V ETAL 325 ALPINE DUBUQUE IA 52001
GOWDY, SUSAN BISSELL
10.25.152.O10 NA V V ET AL 3.25 ALPINE DUBUQUE IA 52oo'1
GOWDY~ SUSAN ElSSELL 325 ALPINE
~0.25.152.00g NA V ~/ ETAL , iDUBUQUE I,~ 52001
- GOWDY, SUSAN BISSELL
ET AL 325 ALPINE DUBUQUE I,~ 52001
10.25. t52,008 NA V ~/ GOWDY, SUSAN B,,,,SELL
I0.25,152.019 325 Alpine 5F kl State or Natiooal 3208.43 2 ETAL 325 ALPINE DUBUQUE I.~ 52001
GOWDY, SUSAN BISSELL
10.25.152.O18 NA V ~/ =.TAL 325 ALPINE DUBUQUE I,~ 52001
- GOWDY, SUSAN BISSELL
10.25,152,.017 V V SupportNe ETAL 325 ALPINE DUBUQUE II
10.25,152.016 375 Alpine 2F N Neighborhood 2152.0~ 2 DUBUQUEWOMEN'S CLUB 375ALPINE DUBUQUE IA! 52001
i~ KINGSLEY, ROBERT W &
10.25,152,o15 393 Alpine SF N Non-Supportive 1606.45 1 KATHLEEN I93 ALPINE DUBUQUE IA 52001
-- GRANT, JAMES W &
10.25.152.014 ~1 Alpine 2F N City 3359.39 2 LEONA E 43t ALPINE DUBUQUE IA 52001
-- GRANT, JAMES W &
10.25.152.013 ~1-453 Alpine 2F N Non. Supportive 1~04.5{~ LEONA E ~31 ALPINE DUBUQUE 1,4 5200~1
HAMILL, DONALD E &
10.25.152.012 ~91 Alpine . SF N Neighborhood 1658.5~ 2.~JANICE A ~91 ALPINE DUBUQUE I,~ 52C01
10.25,153.O01 ~ Alpine SF N Neighborhood 2967.8C 2.5' LOCHER, TODD J & CAR_YN 490 ALPINE ~rUBUQUE I,~ 52001
10.25.153.002 450Alpine SF N Supportive 2396.11 2.5STEINHAUSER, CYNTHIA M ~ALPINE DUBUQUEIP 5200'3
MONAGHAN, EDWARD J &
I0.2S.153.O03 430 Alpine BF N Neighborhood 2416.81 2.5JANE F 430 ALPINE DUBUQUE I,~ 52001
087 Melrose BURKE, MICHAEL D & 1087 MELROSE
10.25.153.012 Good Tar SF N Neighborhood 1362.41 2.5MARY M TERRACE DUBUQUE II 52001,
1075 Melrose KESSLER, DAVID W & 1075 MELROSE
10.25.153.O13 Good Ter SF N Neighborhood 1309.90 2 KATHLEEN K 'ERRACE DUSUQUE II - 52001
I{]63 Melrose PREHM, GREG A & 1C63 MELROSE
10.25.153.o14 Good Ter SF N · Supportive 2238.80 2 BRIDGET R TERRACE DUBUQUE IA 52001
1055 MELROSE
10.25.153.015 Good 055 Melrose SF '~ ~lelghborhood 1,~O9.50 1.5FITZPATRICK, THOMAS J TERRACE DUBUQUE IA 52001
045 Melrose CRIBS, LYNWOOD R & 1045 MELROSE
10.25.153.O16 Good Ter SF N Neighborhood 1436.13 2.5LAURIE C TERRACE DUBUQUE iA 52001
1033 Melrose SHEA, THOMAS D & 1033 MELROSE
10.25.153.O17 Good Ter SF N Neighborhood 1501.06 2.5MARGUERITE E TERRACE DUBUQUE I,~ 52001
1025 Melrose 1025 MELROSE
t0.25.153.018 Good Ter SF N Neighborhood 1102.38 2 SCHMITZ, JEANA TERRACE DUBUQUEI,~ 52001
.... 1011 Melrose 1011 MELROSE
10.2~1~3.01~ Good Tar SF N Suppo~ti~ve 1333.20 2 NEMMERS~JOHN T ITERRACE DUBUQUE I,~ __52001
1010 Melrose ......... WILLEMS, JAMES R & 1010 MELROSE
10.25.155,01S Ter SF N Neighborhood 1540.52 2 !LIZABETH A I'ERRACE DUBUQUE I,~ 52001
1020 Melrose 1020 MELROSE
10.25.155,009 Ter SF N Neighborhood ~021,97 1,5~'~ILLER, JAMES J SR TERRACE DUBUQUE I~ 52001
~1030 Melrose E~ohonok Barber 1030 MELROSE
10.25.155.008 l'er Writers SF O Neighborhood t078.2~c 2.5 SCHENCK, 6ARBARA L TERRACE DUBUQUE I,~ 52001
040 Melrose ~'JEBER, ROBERT A & t O40 MELRO~t:-
10.25.155,007 1'er SF N Supportive 11~ff3.00 2 JEANETTE M TERRACE DUBUQUE I/ 52001
10.25.155.006 1050 Melrose 1050 MELROSE
Ter SF N Netl~hborhood 1395.75 2 DEVANEY, LYNNE M TERRACE DUBUQUE IA 52001
1062 Melrose CORKEN, DANIEL T & 1062 MELROSE
10.25.155,005 For 3F N Neighborhood 1313.91 2.8 CHRISTINE O TERRACE DUBUQUE IA 52001
1070 Melrose 1070 MELROSE
10.25.188.004 ]'er SF N Neighbo[hoo__d 1710.67 2 KURT, LARRY R & DENA M TERRACE DUBUQUE IA 52001
1088 Melrose LOEWEN, EAGER C & 1088 MELROSE
10.25.155.003 Tar SF N 9upbortlve 2050.12 2 DONNA E TERRACE DUBUQUE IA 52001
1090 Meirose 1090 MELROSE
10.25,155.002 ~'er SF N Supportive 1369.19 2 MESSLER TRUSTEE, M K TERRACE DUBUQUE IA 52001
MC GUIRE, MICHAEL E & ....
10.25.155.001 ~ ?, ~9OAtpine SF N Non-Supportive 1705.53 LINDAS ~OALPINE DUBUQUE IA 52001
1095 WEST 3RD
10.25.158,011 1095 3rd St 5F N State or National. 4438.43 2 ~.HALMERS, WILLIAM B ST DUBUQUE IA 52001
1087 WEST 3RD
10.25.155.012 Good 1087 3rd St SF N Neighborhood 1283.3,1 ~ ~31LLOON, SHIRLEYANN ST DUBUQUE IA 52001
Dark$ David E & 1083 WEST 3RD
10.25,155.013 Good 1083 3rd St Associate SF O Neighborhood 1565.25 21 DERKS, DAVID E ST DUBUQUE I.~ 52001
La Gastronomle 1075 WEST 3RD
10,25.155,014 Good 1075 3rd St Catering SF C Neighborhood 1785.3~ 2.5 KOPP, ANITA C ST DUBUQUE I,a 52001
MC DONELL, DANIEL T & 1057 WEST 3RD
10.25.155.015 Good 1057 3rd St SF N City 2063.40 2 PATRIGIA ST DUBUQUE I,~ 52001
MC DONELL, DANIEL T &
10.25,155.016 NA V V City PATRICIA 1057W3RDST DUBUQUEI,~ 52001
1045 WEST ;~,D
10.25.155,017 Good 10453rd St SF N City 2494.78 2.5 SCHUI. Z, ERIC A & DIANE M ST DUBUQUE I,~ 52001
BAL~CHIERO, ROSEMARY & 1035 WEST 3RD
10.25.155.018 Good 10353rdSt 5F ~1 Supportive 1889.32 2 MARTY, ST DUBUQUEI,~ 52001
i ELLWANGER, RALPH JOHN 1027 WEST 3RD
10.25.155,019 Good 1027 3rd St SF N '~letghborhood 2360.59 2.5 & SUSAN ST DUBUQUE I/ 5200_~.
1004WEST 3RD
10.25.157.011 Good 10043rd St SF N iSupportive 1479.87 2 LECHER, DAVID A ST DUBUQUE I/ 52001
IO20 WEST 3RD
10.25.157.O10 Good 0203hiSt _SI .... ~ .......... ~_u?_po. rt~e 1657.30 2 LIPPE, GARYJ&CAROLA ST__ DUBUQUEI~Ai 52001
DOWNING, E THOMAS & 1028 WEST 3RD
10.25.157.009 Good 028 3rd St SF N Neighborhood 1'192.08 2 STACEY A ST DUBUQUE IA 52001
MOZENA, TERRY L & 1036 WEST 3RD
10.2~.157.008 Good 1036 3rd St SF N 31fy Z333.06 2 ANGELA A ST DUBUQUE IA 52001
1042 WEST 3RD
10.25.157.007 Good 042 3rd St SF N Neighborhood 2758.09 2.5 KURT, ROGER J ST DUBUQUE IA 52001
050-1052 3rd 1050 WEST 3RD
10.25.157.006 Good St 2F N Non. Supportive 1548.84 2 ARAEIPOUR, MARILYN M ST DUBUQUE IA 5200~1
1072 WEST 3RD
10.25.157.005 Good 1072 3rd St SF N Neighborhood 2551,35 2,5 DRAKE, D FLINT & J~ULIE L ST DUBUQUE IA 52001
CAMPBELL, SUSAN
10.26.157,004 Good 101N3rdSt SF N CRy 2579.28 2 VALERIAALTMAN 824FRANDORA HOUSTONT; 77024
-- 1090 WEST 3RD
t0.25.157.001 G~pd 090 3rd St 9F N Neighborhood 2405.11 2 MILLER, DONALD P ST DUBUQUE I,~ 52001
WAINWRIGHT, JEREMY D
10.25.157,002 Good 264Alpine 2F N Cib/ 2929.45 2 & SHANNON 264ALPINE DUBUQUE I,~ 52001
LEISEN, VINCENT M &
10,25,157,003 Good 230Alpine BF N Neighborhood 3360,03 2 KARENA 230ALPINE DUBUQUEI,~ 52001
1.175 GALLOGLY, ANNE 1175
10,25,157.012 Langwmthy BF N Neighborhood 1944.61 2 SPENSLEY LANGWORTHY DUBUQUE II 52001
CAMPBELL, SUSAN
10.25,157.013 NA V V VALERIA ALTMAN 824 FRANDORA HOUSTON T 77024
-- CAMPBELL, SUSAN
10,25,157.O14 NA V V VALERIA ALTMAN 824 FRANDORA HOUSTON T~ 77024
1133-1135
10,25,157.0'15 ~ Langworthy 2F N Non-Supportive 2412,53 1
10,25/157,016 V V ?
1095
10,25.'157,017 .angworthy SF N ? 1789.03
-- KNIGHT, RUSSELL M &
'10.25.157,020 Good ~05 Hill SF N Neighborhood 5357,4~ 2 JOCELYNN A 205 HILL DUBUQUE I,~ 5200'1
DUPREE, CHARLES C &
'10.25.t57,019 Good 257 Hill SF N Neighborhood 1879.72 2.5NICOLE M 257 HILL DUBUQUE IP 52001
EWERT, ROBERT J & TONI
I0.25A57.0'18 Good 263 Hill SF N -~!prn~.rtive 15F,0.37 2,5L 263 HILL DUBUQUE I,~ 52001
Old Main Urban Revitalization Plan
March 2002
1.0 Introduction
The following plan describes certain provisions of the Iowa Urban Revitalization Act and
proposes the creation and designation of an Old Main Urban Revitalization District.
The State of Iowa, under Iowa Code Chapter 404, allows cities to designate areas as urban
revitalization districts. Under this Act, improvements to qualified areas may receive a total
or partial exemption from property taxes for a specified number of years. The exemptions
are intended to stimulate private investment by the reduction of tax increases related to
property improvements.
Once an area is deemed to meet the requirements established in Chapter 404, a plan must be
established that identifies the district boundaries, property owners, existing conditions,
proposed plans and the basic abatement provisions for the revitalization area.
Iowa Code Chapter 404.1 lists five reasons for which a city or county may establish urban
revitalization plans. These include: the existence of numerous buildings that are dilapidated
or deteriorated; the need for preservation and restoration of buildings due to their historic
significance; the area is appropriated as an economic development region as defined in Iowa
Code 403.17; the need for public improvements related to housing; and the encouragement of
housing and residential development. The law- also states that at least 75% of a participating
property's square footage must be used for residential purposes in order to qualify for the
program. The Old Main Urban Revitalization plan will be based upon the need for the
encouragement of the preservation and restoration of historic buildings within the area and
because it is an economic development area.
Presently the Old Main Historic Preservation District is located within an urban renewal area,
as defined by the Iowa Code Chapter 403. The urban renewal area involves collecting taxes
for the mx increment financing program, which contradicts the tax abatement which exists
under the urban revitalization plan. However, both urban renewal and urban revitalization
plans may coexist, since the urban revitalization plan will be restricted to residential
development.
2.0 The District
2.1 Location
Addendum Map 1 identifies the location of the Revitalization District. As indicated on
the map, this area is generally located along Main Street from the 100 block to the 400
block and encompassing the Five Flags Civic Theater.
Old Main Urban Revitalization Plan
March 2002
Page 2
The boundaries of the District are:
Beginning at the comer of First Street and the alley between Iowa Street and Main
Street, continuing southwest along First Street to the alley between Main Street and
Locust Street, northwest up to the comer of Fourth Street and Main Street (400 block),
southwest to the comer of Fourth Street and Main Street (300 block), northeast on Fourth
Street and includes buildings facing Main City, continue south (inclusion of all buildings
facing Main Street) down to the comer of First Street and the alley between Iowa Street
and Main Street.
2.2 Existing and Proposed Zoning
Map 2 shows the existing zoning districts. Approximately 0.192 acres (4%) is zoned as
C-5 (central business district) and the remaining 4.316 acres (96%) is zoned as C-4
(downtown commercial district). Of the forty parcels inside the district only one (3%), is
zoned as C-5, while thirty-nine (97%), are zoned as C-4. Proposed zmfing for the
Revitalization District is C-5 (central business district).
2.3 Existing and Proposed Land Use
Map 4 identifies the existing primary land use for the Revitalization District. The district
has mainly commercial uses as the primary land use for the forty parcels within the
district. Of these, twenty-seven, (67.5%), of the district are commercial use; four, (10%),
are office use; one, (2.5%), is under institutional use; five parcels, (12.5%), are parking
lots; and three, (7.5%), are vacant parcels. The total acreage of the Old Main Historic
District is 4.508 acres of which 3.078 acres, (69%), are for commercial use. The
remaining land use acreages for the district are: 0.531 acres, (12%), for off-street parking
lots; 0.420 acres, (9%), for office use; 0.287 acres, (6%), are vacant; and the remaining
0.192 acres, (4%), of the total acreage is used for institutional purposes.
Map 5 shows the secondary usage for the buildings in the Revitalization District.
Because certain parcels are either used for parking lots or are single story buildings,
seven of the forty parcels have no secondary usage. The majority of the parcels'
secondary usage is multi-family residences; nine of the remaining thirty-three parcels or
28% are under that use. The remaining parcels' secondary usages are: eight or 24% are
under commercial use; six or 18% are under two-family use; four or 12% are vacant
properties; three or 9% are under office use; two or 6% are under single-family use; and
one or 3% are under institutional use. The total acreage of the parcels with secondary
uses is 3.596 acres. Of this 1.t84 acres or 33% are under commercial use; 0.970 acres or
27% are under multi-family use; 0.424 acres or 12 % are under two-family use; 0.354 or
10% are vacant; 0.369 acres or 10% are under office use; 0.192 acres or 5% are under
institutional use; and the remaining 0.103 acres or 3% are under commercial use.
2.4 Assessed Valuations and Owners of Records
The existing assessed valuation of the real estate in the Revitalization DiStrict, listing
land and building values per parcel separately, is included in Chart 1. Also, in Chart 1 is
a list of the names and addresses of the current owners of record of real estate within the
district. The total land value within the proposed Old Main Urban Revitalization District
is $564,600. The total building value within the district is $2,231,140 with the total
value of the area being $2,795,740.
Old Main Urban Revitalization Plan
March 2002
Page 3
2.5 City Plans and Services
The City completed a downtown circulation study ha 1996 that encompassed this
district. This comprehensive study reviewed and addressed traffic patterns, parking
needs and urban design issues.
3.0 Relocation
No relocation should occur due to the rehabilitation of the remaining vacant space on the
parcels identified for expansion under existing and proposed land use. Should relocation
occur as a result of rehabilitation in the Revitalization District, the person(s) causing a
qualified tenant to be displaced shall pay all of the relocation costs of the tenant as a
condition for receiving a tax-exemption under Iowa Code Section 404.3.
4.0 Qualification of the District
In May 2001, a building condition survey was conducted by the Planning Services
Department in order to determine the boundaries for the Urban Revitalization' District and the
criteria to be used by the City Council establish the district. Land use information
concerning existing uses, building ages and building conditions was collected in order to
document the conditions of deterioration that presently exist.
4.1 Historic Significance
The entire area proposed for the Old Main Urban Revitalization District is within the
Old Main Historic Preservation District. Chapter 25, Historic Preservation, of the City
Code, regulates alteration of building exteriors, new construction, additions, and
demolition. In 1979 an architectural survey was done using five classifications for
historical and/or architectural significance: state or national; city; neighborhood;
supportive; and non-supportive. Approximately 39% of the structures located within the
Old Main Urban Revitalization District were classified as having a neighborhood
significance. The remaining structures were classified as the following: 23%
supportive; 19% city; t3% non-supportive; and 6% state or national. Map 5 shows the
classifications of the historical significance for the buildings within the Old Main Urban
Revitalization District.
4.2 Building conditions
The results of the building conditions survey are shown in Map 6. Major structural
components were considered in rating building conditions. These components were
ranked as good, fair, or poor under the following criteria:
Good: The building appeared to be structurally sound and free of major defects.
Ongoing maintenance such as window repair, re-pointing and painting was evident.
Old Main Urban Revitalization Plan
March 2002
Page 4
Of the thirty-five buildings reviewed, thirty-four (97.14%) qualified under this
category.
Fair: The building has been the victim of deferred maintenance. As a result such
conditions as wood or mortar decay, window repair, roof repair and tuck-pointing
needs exist. The correction of these conditions may require complete replacement and
may constitute a hardship or lack of feasibility on the part of the property owner, thus
retarding the provision of housing accommodations, or constitute an economic or
social liability-. Of the thirty-five structures reviewed, one (2.86%) qualified for this
category.
Poor: The building has been the victim of little or no maintenance during recent
years. This results in the need of major repairs in the building including, but not
limited to: foundation, roofing, siding, mortar, windows, doors, tuck-pointing, and
structural supports. Correction of these conditions will require complete replacement
if applicable or major renovation and could possibly constitute a hardship or lack of
feasibility on the part of the property owner. No buildings within the district qualified
for this category.
5.0 Revitalization Program
5.1 Tax Exemption
a) All residential property, assessed either as residential or commercial, in the
Revitalization District shall be eligible for mx abatement.
b)The abatement incentive is intended to bring back to useful purpose the vacant or
underutilized buildings, which exist in the Revitalization District. Tax abatement
shall be available only for the rehabilitation of existing structures and additions in the
Revitalization District, but not for the new construction of separate buildings.
c)The tax abatement schedule shall offer the same exemption opportunity as is available
in other Urban Revitalization Districts so designated in the City of Dubuque.
Therefore, a ten-year 100% exemption on the actual value added by the
improvements as provided in Iowa Code Section 404.3 (4) shall be established as part
of this Plan.
d)The percent increase in value shall also reflect the standard used in other Urban
Revitalization Districts in the city. The actual value of the building(s) to which
improvements have been made must have increased the assessed value by at least
fifteen percent (15%) before an abatement is applied. Each year that an application is
made for tax abatement, the assessed value must have increased in that year by at
least fifteen percent (15%).
e) The area shall remain as a Revitalization District commencing upon the adoption of
the ordinance approving this Revitalization District by the City CounCil.
Old MainUrbanRevitalization Plan
March 2002
Page 5
5.2 Eligibility
For qualified improvements to be elgible for tax exemption, a building permit and or
Historic Preservation Commission approval must be ohiained in accordance with the City
of Dubuque's Code of Ordinances. Also, due to urban renewal plan which also exists for
this area, 100% or greater of the total square footage must be used for residential
purposes in order to qualify for the program.
5.3 Availability of funding
There are at present many active programs, which may provide a source of funding for
residential and commercial improvements in the Revitalization District. These include:
Community Developmem Block Grant Funds (CDBG), HOME funds, Main Street, Ltd.,
Downtown Rehabilitation Loan Fund, and Fagade Grant Program.
6.0 Conclusion
The Old Main Urban Revitalization District will assist the rehabilitation efforts of several
vacant or deteriorating properties by providing needed housing units for the citizens of
Dubuque and the surrounding arem After the ten-year abatement period lapses on these
projects, the full assessed value of the rehabilitation property will go on the tax rolls to the
benefit of the entire community.
Old Main Urban Revitalization District:
Boundaries 2002
Old Main Urban Revitalization District:
Zoning 2002
Old Main Urban Revitalization District:
Land Use 2002
Old Main Urban Revitalization District:
Secondary Land Use 2002
OId Main Urban Revitalization District:
Historic Significance of Buildings 2002
Old Main Urban Revitalization District:
Building Conditions 2002
Parcel[D Address Business
Owner Name Owner Name Owner Address
CIt}' ZIp Lend Value Bulldlnr~ Value Total Value
Cathedral Urban Revitalization Plan
March 2002
1.0 Introduction
The following plan describes certain provisions of the Iowa Urban Revitalization Act and
proposes the creation and designation cfa Cathedral Urban Revitalization District.
The State of Iowa, under Iowa Code Chapter 404, allows cities to designate areas as urban
revitalization districts. Under this Act, improvements to qualified areas may receive a total or
partial exemption from property taxes for a specified number of years. The exemptions are
intended to stimulate private investment by the reduction of tax increases related to property
improvements.
Once an area is deemed to meet the requirements established in Chapter 404, a plan must be
established that identifies the district boundaries, property owners, existing conditions, proposed
plans and the basic abatement provisions for the revitalization area.
Iowa Code Chapter 404.1 lists five reasons for which a city or county may establish urban
revitalization plans. These include: the existence of numerous buildings that are dilapidated or
deteriorated; the need for preservation and restoration of buildings due to their historic
significance; the area is appropriated as an economic development region as defined in Iowa
Code 403.17; the need for public improvements related to housing; and the encouragement of
housing and residential development. The law also states that at least 75% of a participating
property's square footage must be used for residential purposes in order to qualify for the
program. The Cathedral Urban Revitalization Plan will be based upon the need for the
encouragement of the preservation and restoration of historic buildings within the area, it is an
economic development area, and for the encouragement of housing and residential development
in the area.
2.0 The District
2.1 Location
Addendum Map 1 identifies the location of the Revitalization District. As indicated on the
map, this area is generally located from 39 Bluff Street through most of its 700 block and is
bordered by the bluff line to the west and Locust Street and the alleyway between Locust
Street and Bluff Street to the east.
The boundaries of the District are:
Beginning at the comer of Locust Street and Jones Street continuing westward along
Jones Street to Bluff Street Street, westward on Em_mett Street to the comer of St. Mary's
Street, north along St. Mary's Street to the comer of Third Street, east along Third Street to
the comer of Bluff Street,. north along Bluff Street to the comer of Fourth Street, west along
Fourth Street until its end, from the comer of Bluff Street and Fourth Street continue north to
Cathedral Urban Revitalization Plan
March 2002
Page 2
the comer of Fifth Street and continue west for one block, from the comer of Bluff Street
and Fifth Street continue north along Bluff Street until 759 Bluff Street, including only the
westward side of the 700 block, continue south to Seventh Street, continue east along
Seventh Street to the comer of Locust Street, south on Locust Street to the comer of Third
Street, continue west on Third Street until the alleyway between Locust Street and Bluff
Street, continue south on the alleyway until reaching the alleyway between First Street and
Jones Street, continue along this alleyway until reaching Locust Street and continue south to
the comer of Locust Street and Jones Street.
2.2 Existing and Proposed Zoning
Map 2 shows the existing zoning districts. Within the Cathedral Urban Revithlization
District there are six different zoning districts. Of the 175 parcels within the district, sixty-
three, (36%), are zone as OR (office residential district). The remaining parcels are zoned
as: fifty, (29%), as OC (office commercial district); forty-one, (23%), as R3 (moderate
density multifamily residential district); seventeen, (10%), as C-4 (downtown! commercial
district); four, (2%), as OS (office/service district); and the remaining one parcel, is zoned as
C-3 (general commercial district). The Cathedral Urban Revitalization District is a 23.814
acre area. R3 zoning makes up 7.937 acres, (33%), of the total area. Approximately 27%, or
6.343 acres are zoned as OR; 4.878 acres, (20%), as C-4; 4.061 acres, (17%), as OC; 0.420
acres, (2%), as OS; and 0.175 acres, (< 1%), as C-3.
2.3 Existing and Proposed Land Use
Map 4 identifies the existing primary land use for the proposed district. One hundred and
seventy-five parcels are within the district. Of these, sixty-two, 935%), are in single family
use; twenty-eight, (16%), are under commercial use; twenty-three, (13%), are for
multifamily use; twenty-two, (13%), are for two family use; twelve, (7%), of the parcels are
vacant; eleven, (6%), are under office use; ten, (6%), are used for parking; six, (3%), are
used for institutional purposes; and the remaining parcel is used as public open space.
The total acreage of the Cathedral Urban Revitalization District is 23.814 acres, of which
6.101 acres, or 26%, are for institutional use. The remaining land use acreages for the
Revitalization District are: 4.424 acres, (19%), for single-family use; 3.631 acres, (15%), for
multifarnily use; 2.237 acres, (10%), for commercial use; 1.947 acres, (8%), for parking use;
1.782 acres, (7%), for two family use; 1.509 acres, (6%), for public open space; 1.387 acres,
(6%), for office use; and 0.706 acres, (3%), of the total acreage remains vacant.
Map 5 shows the secondary usage for the buildings in the Revitalization District. Within the
district there are nine different secondary uses. Due to certain parcels having parking lots or
single stoW building as their primary use, eighteen of the one hundred and seventy-five
parcels have no secondary usage. The one hundred and fifty-seven parcels that remain have
the majority of their secondary use designated as single-family use, with eighty-five parcels,
or 54%, under that use. The other eight uses are divided up as: twenty-tlxree, (15%), as two
family use; twenty-three, (15%), as multifamily use; eight, (5%), as commercial use; six,
(4%), as institutional use; six, (4%), for office use; five, (3%), are vacant; and the remaining
one parcel is under both commercial and single-family use. The total acreage of the parcels
with secondary uses is 20.1 I9 acres. Of this total 6.181 acres, (31%), are under single-
Cathedral Urban Revitalization Plan
March 2002
Page 3
family use; 6.101 acres, (30%), are under institutional use; 2.907 acres (14%), are under
multifamily use; 1.975 acres, (10%), are under two family use; 1.604 acres, (8%), are under
commercial use; 0.709 acres, (4%), are under office use; 0.467 acres, (2%), are vacant; and
0.175 acres, (1%), is used as commercial and single family uses.
2.4 Assessed Valuations and Owners of Records
The existing assessed valuation of the real estate in the Revitalization District, listing land
and building values separately, is included in Chart 1. Also in Chart 1 is a list of the names
and addresses of the current owners of record of real estate within the District.
2.5 City Plans and Services
The City completed a downtown circulation study in 1996 that encompassed this area. This
comprehensive study- reviewed and addressed traffic patterns, parking needs and urban
design issues.
3.0 Relocation
No relocation should occur due to the rehabilitation of the remaining vacant space on the
parcels identified for expansion under existing and proposed land use. Should relocation
occur as a result of rehabilitation in the Revitalization District, the person(s) causing a
qualified tenant to be displaced shall pay all of the relocation costs of the tenant as a
condition for receiving a tax-exemption under Iowa Code Section 404.3.
4.0 Qualification of Areas
tn May 2001, a building condition survey was conducted by the Planning Services
Department in order to determine the boundaries for the Urban Revitalization District and the
criteria to be used by the City Council to establish the district. Land use information
concerning existing uses, building ages and building conditions was collected in order to
document the conditions of deterioration that presently exist.
4.1 Historic Significance
The entire area proposed for the Cathedral Urban Revitalization District is within the
Cathedral Historic Preservation District. Chapter 25, Historic Preservation, of the City
Code, regulates alteration of building exteriors, new construction, additions, and demolition.
In 1979 an architectural survey was done using five classifications: state or national; city;
neighborhood; supportive; and non-supportive Approximately 37% of the structures
located within the Cathedral Urban Revitalization District were classified as having a
neighborhood significance. The remaining structures were classified for historical
significance as follows: 20% supportive; 17% non-supportive; 14% city; 7% state or
national; and 5% not evaluated. Map 5 shows the classifications of the historic significance
of buildings within the Cathedral Urban Revitalization District.
Cathedral Urban Revitalization Plan
March 2002
Page 4
4.2 Building conditions
The results of the building conditions survey are shown on Map 6. Major structural
components were considered in rating building conditions. These components were ranked
as good, fair, or poor under the following criteria:
Good: The building appeared to be structurally sound and free of major defects.
Ongoing maintenance such as window repair, re-pointing and painting was evident. Of
the one hundred and twenty-five buildings reviewed, one hundred and five, or 84%,
qualified under this category.
Fair: The building has been the victim of deferred maintenance. As a result such
conditions as wood or mortar decay, window repair, roof repair and tuck-pointing needs
exist. The correction of these conditions may require complete replacement, and may
constitute a hardship or lack of feasibility on the part of the property owner, thus
retarding the provision of housing accommodations, or constitute an economic or social
liability. Of the one hundred and twenty-five structures reviewed, nineteen, or 15%,
qualified for this category.
Poor: The building has been the victim of little or no maintenance during recent years.
This results in the need of major repairs in the building including, but not limited to:
foundation, roofing, siding, mortar, windows, doors, tuck-pointing, and structural
supports. Correction of these conditions will require complete replacement if applicable
or major renovation and could possibly constitute a hardship or lack of feasibility on the
part of the property owner. One structure, or 1%, out of one hundred and twenty-five
buildings qualified for this category.
5.0 Revitalization Program
5.1 Tax Exemption
a) All residential property, assessed either as residential or commercial, in the Revitalization
District shall be eligible for tax abatement.
b)The abatement incentive is intended to bring back to useful purpose the vacant or
underutilized buildings, which exist in the revitalization District. Tax abatement shall be
available only for the rehabilitation of existing strictures in the Revitalization District, not
for the new construction of additions or separate buildings.
c)The tax abatement schedule shall offer the same exemption opportunity as is available in
other Urban Revitalization Districts so designated in the City of Dubuque. Therefore, a
ten-year 100% exemption on the actual value added by the improvements as provided in
Iowa Code Section 404.3 (4) shall be established as part of this Plan.
d)The percent increase in value shall also reflect the standard used in other Urban
Revitalization districts in the city. The actual value of the building(s) to which
improvements have been made must have increased the assessed value by at least fifteen
percent (15%) before an abatement is applied. Each year that an application is made for
Cathedral Urban Revitalization Plan
March 2002
Page 5
tax abatement, the assessed value must have increased in that year by at least fifteen
percent (15%).
e) The proposed area shall remain as a revitalization area commencing upon the adoption of
the ordinance approving this Revitalization District by the City Council.
5.2 Eligibility
For qualified improvements to be eligible for tax exemption, a building permit and or
Historic Preservation Commission approval must be obtained in accordance with the City of
Dubuque's Code of Ordinances. Also for commercial or mixed use property, 75% or greater
of the total square footage must be used for residential purposes in order to qualify, for the
program.
5.3 Availability of funding
There are at present many active programs, which may provide a source of funding for
residential and commercial improvements to the Revitalization District. These include:
Community Development Block Grant Funds (CDBG), HOME funds, Main Street, Ltd.,
Downtown Rehabilitation Loan Fund, and Fagade Grant Program.
6.0 Conclusion
The Cathedral Urban Revitalization District will assist the rehabilitation efforts of several vacant
or deteriorating properties by providing needed housing un/ts for the citizens of Dubuque and the
surrounding area. After the ten-year abatement period lapses on these projects, the full assessed
value of the rehabilitation property will go on the tax rolls to the benefit of the entire community.
Cathedral Urban Revitalization District:
Boundaries 2002
Cathedral Urban Revitalization District:
Zoning 2002
Cathedral Urban Revitalization District:
Land Use 2002
Cathedral Urban Revitalization District:
Secondary Land Use 2002
Cathedral Urban Revitalization District:
Historic Significance of Buildings 2002
Cathedral Urban Revitalization District:
Building Conditions 2002
Parcel ID Add~ess Business Owner Name Owner Address Clly, Slate Zip Land Value Buildin~ Value Dwellin ~ Vak*e Tolal Value
ParcellD Address Business
Owner Name Owner Address Cil~, Slale Zil~ Land Value Buildln~ Value Dwelling Value Total Value
Address
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
City, State
Zip Land Value
Buildin~ Value Dwelling Value Total Value
SEP-26-02 THU 11:22 ~iN TELEGRAPH HE~LD RD$ FfiX NO, 5886782 ?, 01/02
Planning Services Department
city Hall
50 West 13th Street
Dubuque, Iowa 52001-4864
(563) 5894210 office
(563) 5894221 fax
(563) 6906678 TDD
planningtDdt yofdubuque.org
The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
City of Dubuque
City Hall - 50 W. 13th Street
Dubuque, IA 52001
RE:Proposed Urban Revitalization Plans - Old Main, Cathedral and Langworthy
Histodc Districts
October 28, 2002
Dear Mayor and City Council Members:
The City of Dubuque Long Range Planning Advisory Commission has reviewed the
above-cited request.
Discussion
Staff spoke in favor of the request.
The City's Urban Revitalization Program offers a ten-year property tax abatement for
eligible improvements to residential properties in designated revitalizatiop districts. In
February 2001, the City Council approved the expansion of the Urban Revitalization
Program to all five historic districts, as recommended by the Historic Preservation
Commission. In the historic downtown area, there are four urban revitalization districts:
Washington, Jackson, West 11th Street, and Upper Main. Only two historical districts -
West 11th Street and Jackson Park, are located in urban revitalization districts. The
expansion of the Urban Revitalization Program would include the Old Main, Cathedral
and Langworthy historic districts.
The Urban Revitalization plans for the Old Main, Cathedral, and Langworthy historic
districts will have the same provisions as the Washington, Jackson, and West 11th
Street urban revitalization districts. In addition, the Old Main historic district will require
that all of a property's square footage must be used for residential purposes in order to
qualify for the program, instead of the 75 percent minimum allowed by State law. This
is necessary since the district is located within an urban renewal area where property
taxes for eligible improvements can be collected for tax increment financing (TIF).
Staff reviewed the Commission's responsibility is to determine if urban revitalization
plans are in conformance with the Comprehensive Plan.
Service People Integ~ty Responsibility innovation Teamwork
The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
October 28, 2002
Page 2
Staff noted that the Old Main, Cathedral and Langworthy Urban Revitalization Plans
support several goals of the Comprehensive Plan:
Housing
> To promote the creation and maintenance of an adequate supply of sound,
affordable housing integrated throughout the community.
> To preserve existing housing and existing residential neighborhoods.
Economic Development
> To establish and maintain housing and transportation, communication and utility
systems which support and foster quality development.
Land Use and Urban Design
> To encourage redevelopment opportunities within the City in an effort to revitalize
unused or underused property while ensuring the preservation of viable and
affordable housing stock.
There were no public comments.
The Long Range Planning Advisory Commission discussed the request, noting that the
proposed urban revitalization plans for Old Main, Cathedral and Langworthy Historic
Districts conform to and support the goals of the Comprehensive Plan.
Recommendation
By a vote of 6 to 0, the Long Range Planning Advisory Commission finds that the Old
Main, Cathedral, and Langworthy Urban Revitalization Plans are in conformance with
the Comprehensive Plan.
A simple majority vote is needed for the City Council to approve the request.
Respectfully submitted,
David Wm. Rusk, Chairperson
Long Range Planning Advisory Commission
Attachments
cc: David, Harris, Housing and Community Development Director