The Ames City Council debated homelessness policies, infrastructure projects and rezoning, opting to wait for consultant recommendations while residents raised concerns about enforcement, public spaces and city development plans.

Mayor John Haila opened the meeting by clarifying that the discussion on homelessness was not about making a decision on an ordinance but rather an open dialogue. Council members recognized the complexity of the issue.

“You can prohibit anything, but that just shifts the problem elsewhere,” At-Large Rep. Amber Corrieri said.

“The reason people are unhoused is multifaceted,” At-Large Rep. Anita Rollins said. “I would like to wait and see what we can do to make an impact.”

Ward Two Rep. Tim Gartin emphasized the urgency of addressing homelessness before the warmer months increased the issue.

“I agree with the value of seeing the recommendations, but I just don’t see the calendar helping us,” Gartin said. “I think it’s better to be out in front of this.”

In December of 2024, the city sent a Request for Proposals (RFP) to find a consultant to help develop a countywide action plan on homelessness.

As a result, Analytic Insight was hired to collect data, conduct interviews and provide recommendations. Their report is expected in late April.

This study will also examine national best practices and potential funding opportunities for homelessness-related initiatives. Most of the council supported waiting until the consultant’s report is completed before further action.

“The city invests over $2 million a year, and the county and United Way invest as well, bringing the total to about $5.2 million this year,” Haila said.

Council members pointed out that Ames already has ordinances prohibiting camping on public property, primarily aimed at addressing construction and obstruction, but they also apply more broadly.

The council then passed two motions. The first requests a memo from the city attorney and the police chief on barriers to enforcing current ordinances related to homelessness. The second requests staff to provide recommendations for proactive actions to improve conditions for those experiencing homelessness and the community, including issues related to the animal shelter, waterways and community gardens.

Resident Satisfaction Survey

The council then discussed the city’s 12-page Resident Satisfaction Survey, which will be sent out in April. Iowa State University students receive it electronically, leading to strong participation rates among students. However, overall response rates have declined in recent years.

City Public Relations Officer Susan Gwiasda noted that shortening the survey could help improve participation. Rollins motioned to add two new questions, including one asking whether a resident’s primary language has ever prevented them from participating in the community. 

Additionally, Ex-Officio Emily Boland proposed replacing health-related questions with one measuring residents’ satisfaction with human services under the ASSET program. This motion also passed.

Historic Preservation Commission Work Plan

The Ames City Council approved the Historic Preservation Commission’s (HPC) 2024 accomplishments and 2025 work plan. This included organizing walking tours of the Old Town Historic District to engage the public in local history, and developing an illustrative version of Chapter 31 to clarify historic preservation guidelines.

The council approved 24 out of 25 tax abatement applications, with one found ineligible due to ownership not being finalized by the required deadline.

Infrastructure and Public Notices

The council approved the Hyland Avenue arterial street pavement improvement project for $1,696,869.05, a bid that came in lower than the initial estimate.

The council also discussed the intent of public hearing notices published in newspapers and how city code dictates their publication. No changes were decided.