2016 Le Mars, Iowa Comprehensive Plan

Drafted by: SIMPCO | Siouxland Interstate Metropolitan Planning Council | www.simpco.org | 712-279-6286 Edited by: City of Le Mars | City Hall | 40 Central Avenue SE | Le Mars, IA 51031 | Phone: 712-546-7018

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Thank you to the following elected officials, staff and community partners that participated in the development of the 2016 Le Mars Comprehensive Plan. Thank you to the community members who attended the Comprehensive Plan public meetings and workshops and provided comments. Cover Photo: Crossed Fingers by Lisa Scheitler from Le Mars

L E M A R S C OMPREHENSIVE P L A N S T E E R I N G C OMMITTEE Adler, Neal Le Mars Chamber of Commerce Bollin, Dennis Planning and Zoning Eekhoff, Kevin Le Mars Business Initiative Corporation Goodchild, Clark City of Le Mars, City Council Kenaley, Pat Planning and Zoning Kirchoff, Dick City of Le Mars, Mayor Langel, Scott City of Le Mars, City Administrator Mayrose, Linda Board of Adjustment/Historic Preservation Smidt, Greg City of Le Mars, Code Enforcement/Inspection Vacura, Jason City of Le Mars, Assistant City Administrator Wilson, Ken Board of Adjustment

L E M A R S C I T Y P L A N N I N G & B O A R D O F C OUNCIL Z O N I N G A DJUSTMENT Dick Kirchoff, Mayor C OMMISSION Clark Goodchild Clark Goodchild, Ward 1 Dennis Bollin, Co-Chair Greg Smidt Steve Wick, Ward 2 Pat Kenaley, Co-Chair David Schipper Ken Nelson, Ward 3 Pam Floy Bruce Brock Rex E. Knapp, At Large Wayne Schipper Kathy McCrary John Rexwinkel, At Large Jim Gergeni Larry Ruchti

Peggy Sitzmann Ken Wilson Linda Mayrose

L E M A R S S T A F F A N D C O M M U N I T Y P ARTNERS Scott Langel, City of Le Mars City Administrator Bill Rosacker, City of Le Mars Director – EMS Jason Vacura, City of Le Mars Assistant City Brad Eppling, City of Le Mars Public Facilities-Parks Administrator Scott Kneip, City of Le Mars Street Supervisor Greg Smidt, City of Le Mars Code Enforcement Stu Dekkenga, City of Le Mars Police Department Christy Collins, City of Le Mars Administrative Assistant Shirley Taylor, Le Mars Library Director James Conley, City of Le Mars GIS Mary Reynolds, Le Mars Chamber of Commerce Gayle Sitzmann, City of Le Mars Water Department Jill Renken, Plymouth County Assessor Angie Kneip, City of Le Mars Utilities David Schipper, City of Le Mars Fire-Rescue Chief

SIMPCO S T A F F Kevin Randle, Regional Planner II Nicole Peterson, Regional Planner II Gabriel Appiah, Regional Planner II Joe Surdam, Regional Planner I

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17

TABLE OF CONTENTS

C H A P T E R 1 I NTRODUCTION O VERVIEW ...... 4

P URPOSE FOR PLANNING ...... 4

C OMPREHENSIVE P L A N D EFINED ...... 4

I O W A S M A R T P LANNING ...... 5

P L A N A N D P R O C E S S O VERVIEW ...... 5

V I S I O N A N D G U I D I N G P RINCIPLES ...... 8

V I S I O N S TATEMENT ...... 9

C H A P T E R 2 C O M M U N I T Y C O N T E X T O VERVIEW ...... 10

L OCATION ...... 10

C I T Y O RIGINS ...... 12

T OPOGRAPHY AND S OILS ...... 13

W ATERSHEDS ...... 18

P H Y S I C A L A SSESSMENT ...... 19

G R O W T H T R E N D S A SSESSMENT ...... 19

C H A P T E R 3: L A N D U S E V I S I O N A N D G U I D I N G P RINCIPLES ...... 22

E X I S T I N G L A N D U SE...... 22

D EVELOPMENT C ONCEPTS ...... 25

A NNEXATION AND G R O W T H A REAS ...... 28

F U T U R E L A N D U SE ...... 30

G O A L S A N D O BJECTIVES ...... 32

C H A P T E R 4 H OUSING AND N EIGHBORHOODS V ISION ...... 33

E X I S T I N G N EIGHBORHOODS AND H O U S I N G C ONDITION ...... 35

H O U S I N G O CCUPANCY AND T ENURE ...... 39

H O U S I N G V ARIETY ...... 41

N EIGHBORHOOD D ESIGN ...... 50

I N F I L L H OUSING AND G R O W T H A REAS ...... 50

G O A L S A N D O BJECTIVES ...... 51

C H A P T E R 5: E C O N O M I C D EVELOPMENT ...... 53

E X I S T I N G E C O N O M I C C ONDITIONS ...... 53

E C O N O M I C D EVELOPMENT C ONCEPTS ...... 60

E C O N O M I C O PPORTUNITY A REAS ...... 65

G O A L S A N D O BJECTIVES ...... 68

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17

TABLE OF CONTENTS

C H A P T E R 6: T RANSPORTATION V I S I O N A N D G U I D I N G P RINCIPLES ...... 70

E X I S T I N G T RANSPORTATION I NFRASTRUCTURE ...... 70

T RANSPORTATION C ONCEPTS ...... 71

F U T U R E T RANSPORTATION I MPROVEMENTS ...... 73

G O A L S A N D O BJECTIVES ...... 76

C H A P T E R 7: C O M M U N I T Y F A C I L I T I E S A N D S ERVICES ...... 77

V I S I O N A N D G U I D I N G P RINCIPLES ...... 77 Existing Facilities and Services ...... 78 U t i l i t i e s ...... 78 Cultural Facilities and Attractions ...... 86

E DUCATIONAL S ERVICES ...... 88

F O O D S YSTEMS AND A GRICULTURE ...... 90

H E A L T H A N D S O C I A L S ERVICES ...... 91

G O V E R N M E N T B UILDINGS ...... 93

P U B L I C S AFETY ...... 94

G O A L S A N D O BJECTIVES ...... 96 Chapter 8: Parks, Recreation, And Natural Resources ...... 99

E X I S T I N G R ECREATIONAL AND N ATURAL AMENITI ES ...... 99

P ARKS , R ECREATION AND N A T U R A L R E S O U R C E C ONCEPTS ...... 104

P O T E N T I A L I MPROVEMENTS ...... 109

G O A L S A N D O BJECTIVES ...... 110

L E M A R S V I S I O N S TATEMENT ...... 11111

P L A N I MPLEMENTATION ...... 111

APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

C H A P T E R 1 I NTRODUCTION O VERVIEW This document is a statement of the City of Le Mars’ vision for its own future and a guide to achieve that vision through the year of 2036. The view of the future expressed in this document is the culmination of the community’s values, ideals, and aspirations about the best management and use of the community’s resources. The plan is a tool for managing changes to be made to the community in order to achieve the desired quality of life. The acronyms and abbreviations used in the narrative are listed in Appendix A.

P URPOSE FOR PLANNING Planning is a means of community decision-making through public participation. Throughout the development of a comprehensive plan or any other related community planning documents, planners and individuals of a community collaborate in an effort to serve the best interests, show existing positive and negative aspects, offer priorities and guidelines, and identify where development is possible or should occur in communities. Communities, whether thriving or underachieving, must continually be shaped, guided, and actively managed to effectively adjust to the changing environment and conditions in order to continue to meet the needs of its residents and to retain the quality of life that initially attracted those residents to the community.

Communities across the state of Iowa have been experiencing substantial growth and change over the past decade. Increasing growth and development pressure can strain local resources, deteriorate the environment, and place a burden on homeowners and residents. No growth or slow growth can also create problematic conditions as well, including stagnant or declining tax revenues and deterioration of public infrastructure. However, through sound- planning principles and concepts, a comprehensive plan can gear a community to foster planned growth that is not haphazard.

C OMPREHENSIVE P L A N D E F I N E D A comprehensive plan, also known as a general or master plan, is an in-depth document that is intended to guide a community through strategic decision-making in an effort of achieving a future vision. The future vision of a comprehensive plan along with the strategic decision-making suggested for each guiding principle is commonly constructed so as to be achievable within a ten (10) or twenty (20) year period. The guiding principles of a comprehensive plan, which comprise the bulk of the plan, sets the framework on the course of actions needed to take place for the string of components that weld a community together. Consistent with all comprehensive plans, the plan’s endgame is to allow a community to create conditions that will enhance the level of standard of living and quality of life. The City of Le Mars’ comprehensive plan will not only address the future vision, guiding principles, and strategic decision-making required, but it will also provide an assessment on existing conditions of the various elements of a community, specific goals and objectives for each element of a community, and a course of action needed to implement and evaluate the plan.

The City of Le Mars last adopted comprehensive plan was in the year 2005 which set a future vision for the year 2020. However, since the time of adoption of the comprehensive plan, the formulation of newly comprehensive plans all across the state of Iowa has changed considerably. The recent legislative changes in the state of Iowa will influence how objectives and goals are fulfilled in this comprehensive plan, the context of the plan, and ultimately the outlook of the City of Le Mars throughout the twenty (20) year duration that has been set-forth.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 4 CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION I O W A S M A R T P L A N N I N G In the year 2010, Iowa’s legislation passed the Iowa Smart Planning Act [Iowa State Code Chapter 18B: Land Use – Smart Planning] which is designed to encourage communities to consider the legislative act’s smart planning principles when drafting a comprehensive plan. The ten (10) existing smart planning principles listed below are intended to produce greater economic opportunity, enhance environmental integrity, improve public health outcomes, and safeguard a community’s quality of life. The following smart planning principles include:

Smart Planning Principles Collaboration Housing Diversity Efficiency, Transparency, and Consistency Community Character Clean, Renewable, and Efficient Energy Natural Resources and Agricultural Protection Occupational Diversity Sustainable Design Revitalization Transportation Diversity

A second component of the Iowa Smart Planning Act features elements listed below to consider including into a community’s comprehensive plan. It is not required that a community includes all or some of the elements featured in the legislative act, but it is common of newly adopted comprehensive plans containing multiple elements amongst the list, which include:

Smart Planning Elements to Consider Public Participation Agricultural and Natural Resources Issues and Opportunities Community Facilities Land Use Community Character Housing Hazards Public Infrastructure and Utilities Intergovernmental Collaboration Transportation Implementation Economic Development

The City of Le Mars’ will take into account a series of both the Iowa Smart Planning Principles and the elements suggested to be included in a comprehensive plan when drafting the document.

P L A N A N D P R O C E S S O VERVIEW This document acts as the City of Le Mars’ future vision and tool-kit towards implementation of the comprehensive plan. Supporting the future vision are assessments of current conditions, insights on the concept of community elements, identification of existing needs, and the tools and steps that are needed to be taken to transform this vision into reality.

With consideration of the Iowa Smart Planning Act in mind, the document will equip the following principles and elements of the plan with texts, exhibits, charts, data, and maps to identify and establish goals and objectives to serve as a stepping-stone for the City of Le Mars. Having established a future vision, goals, and objectives with an understanding of the existing conditions, the comprehensive plan will provide a strategic course of action for whom the City of Le Mars may use to address the ever-changing physical, economical, and social conditions of the community as well as be able to establish a strong form of resiliency to arising issues and threats.

The following listing of sections outlines the major components of the comprehensive plan that have been thoroughly assessed to support the future vision of the City of Le Mars:

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 5 CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION Major Components

An overview on the longevity of the City of Le Mars and a summary on the existing demographics and Community Context characteristics of the community that strongly correlate with the issues addressed in this document are provided.

An assessment of existing conditions and identification of future needs and potential growth areas is Land Use provided. Goals and objectives supporting the vision and guiding principles are established.

An assessment on the existing conditions and trends of the housing market is provided. Goals and Housing and Neighborhoods objectives supporting the vision and guiding principles are established.

An assessment of existing conditions and identification on the market trends is provided. Goals and objectives Economic Development guiding the coordination of growth and development decisions within the city are established.

An assessment on the existing transportation infrastructure and identification of future Transportation improvements is provided. Goals and objectives supporting the vision and guiding principles are established.

Identification of existing facilities and an evaluation on the conditions of infrastructure is provided. Goals and Community Facilities and Services objectives addressing the provisions to existing services are established.

Identification of existing recreational and natural Parks, Recreation, and Natural amenities is provided. Identification of potential Resources improvements and expansion of recreational and natural areas are established.

Implementation Identification of goals and objectives are provided.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 6 CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION Community Participation: Public participation has been the foundation of the comprehensive plan and the planning process. To encourage public participation and for residents to have an input on the context of the plan, city leaders established a schedule of public meetings to allow for all individuals to voice any concerns, questions, or recommendations on the formulation of the plan. The themes on the series of public meetings emphasized on the major components of the comprehensive plan. The feedback generated from the public meetings contributed to the development of the goals and the objectives of the following major components of the comprehensive plan by the Siouxland Interstate Metropolitan Planning Council [SIMPCO]: Visioning and Guiding Principles, Housing and Neighborhoods, Economic Development, Transportation, Community Facilities and Services, and Land Use. In addition to the series of public meetings open to the public, the Le Mars Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee worked directly with the SIMPCO staff members in drafting the comprehensive plan; the steering committee consisted of a group of individuals working for the City’s government.

Formulation of a comprehensive plan requires a great deal of planning, scheduling, meetings, and collaboration amongst residents, business owners, and community leaders to identify and establish the vision, goals, objectives, and direction a community desires to head in. Without coordination amongst all stakeholders involved in drafting a comprehensive plan, a community may misidentify immediate needs, potential opportunities for growth, direction to take, and the vision a community ought to strive for. An overview of the components on how the plan came to fruition is listed in the following:

Community Assessment: The planning process of the comprehensive plan began underway with the SIMPCO staff members providing an assessment on existing conditions, trends, pressing issues, and future needs through fact-finding and data collection with the support of City leaders.

Plan Formulation: The goals and objectives of the comprehensive plan are an accumulation of the feedback from the series of public meetings, discussions and brainstorming amongst residents and stakeholders, findings from the community assessment and fact-finding, and the City’s future vision. The goals and objectives formulated by the SIMPCO staff members of each component of the plan are intended to serve merely as a recommendation and an influential factor for the City when deciding on a course of action or direction to take.

Plan Implementation: The final process on the formulation of the comprehensive plan is to adopt the plan, legislatively allowing the City of Le Mars to enforce the plan to spur future growth and development. To ensure a comprehensive plan is efficient and formulated to allow a community to have a realistic probability on obtaining their future vision, there are a series of steps needed to be taken prior to implementing the plan. Prior to the implementation of the comprehensive plan, SIMPCO staff members and City leaders have established performance measures on how to appropriately monitor the progress of the plan, identified priority components of the plan to enact in a sequential order, developed a schedule for the phases of implementation of each component of the plan, and have identified secured sources of funding to be allocated to each phase of the plan. As the City of Le Mars’ comprehensive plan has been enacted, the goals, objectives, action steps, and guiding principles constructed for the future are not meant to be the most definitive strategy to achieve the community’s future vision. In fact, throughout the duration of the comprehensive plan, it is critical for the community to monitor the progress and development of each component for communities are prone to unexpected changes and threats. The comprehensive plan should be treated as a living document as in the event that as a community begins to change the components of the plan will have to be adjusted accordingly to accommodate the rising needs, issues, and trends.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 7 CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION V I S I O N A N D G U I D I N G P R I N C I P L E S The future vision of the comprehensive plan is a brief and straightforward statement conveying what direction the City of Le Mars is striving for. The future vision is the single-most influencing component that dictates the entire formulation of the comprehensive plan. In the early stages of the comprehensive plan, the City of Le Mars hosted a “kickoff” public meeting that emphasized on visioning and guiding principles. At the public meeting, individuals who attended were asked to fill out a questionnaire detailing their perspective on the City of Le Mars. Individuals were asked to create a list of words and values that characterized the spirit of the City of Le Mars. The following list displays the most common themes generated from the question:

Values and Characteristics Progressive Aesthetically Pleasing Friendly Community-Minded Safe Business-Friendly Strong Work Ethic Strong Midwest Values Strong Education Growing

To further gain an understanding on a community, it is common for planners and community leaders to conduct a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (S.W.O.T.) Analysis. Individuals were also asked to create a list of words describing the community’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. The following lists display the most common themes from the S.W.O.T Analysis. The analysis reveals the internal strengths and weaknesses and the external opportunities and threats.

SWOT Analysis

Strengths Weaknesses Quality of Life Housing Economy Workforce

Industry Local Business Support Internal Schools Loss of Involvement Leadership Loss of Youth and Aging Population Opportunities Threats

Business Services and Infrastructure Housing Opportunities Competition With Nearby Cities

Healthcare Responsible Governance External Values Economic Diversification Community Engagement

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 8 CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION Concluding the series of questions provided at the public meeting, individuals were asked to describe how they would want the City of Le Mars to be in twenty (20) years from now. The following list displays the most common themes generated from the question:

Future Vision Growth and Diversification Strong Values Good Services A Known Destination A Place of Choice for Everyone Sustainability Strong City Core

The public input obtained from the “kickoff” public meeting has helped serve as a basis for creating a vision for the City of Le Mars. Upon gaining the perspective of individuals on various elements of the community through the questionnaire, discussions with local leaders and businesses, and a thorough review of the existing characteristics the City Leaders have used this information to create a vision statement for the City of Le Mars.

V I S I O N S TATEMENT The vision statement expresses the overall wishes and desires of the community for the future. It is very general in nature, broadly defining the kind of community the City of Le Mars should strive to become. Through careful review of all the input and information gathered on the City of Le Mars, a consensus was reached on the following vision statement:

Le Mars, the Ice Cream Capital of the World, is a thriving community of choice with opportunity for everyone. It is a community that…  Embraces growth and development to increase opportunity for present and future residents.  Is a place of choice for people of all ages and backgrounds and a destination for visitors.  Promotes a high quality of life with excellent educational, recreational, and health services.  Supports its downtown as the economic and social hub of the community.  Maintains Midwest values by being welcoming to all people, progressive, hardworking, and family-friendly.  Encourages sustainability. For these reasons and more, Le Mars’ vision for the future is to grow as a place where life is sweet!

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 9 C H A P T E R 2 : COMMUNITY CONTEXT

C H A P T E R 2 C O M M U N I T Y C O N T E X T O V E R V I E W The City of Le Mars’ existing demographics and characteristics is highlighted in this section. The developing trends the community is experiencing correlate with the issues addressed in this plan. An overview on the history of the City is provided as well. The emerging trends and new developments identified from the analysis on the data associated with the section suggests the City of Le Mars’ is continuing its presence as a focal point in Plymouth County and the surrounding region.

L O C A T I O N The City of Le Mars resides in the northwest region of Iowa, centrally located in the heart of a vast fertile agricultural market of Plymouth County. The city has the luxury of being in close proximity to multiple metropolitan areas with a population greater than 50,000. Metropolitan areas in close proximity to the City of Le Mars include Sioux City being twenty-six (26) miles to the south, Sioux Falls being eighty-six (86) miles to the north, Omaha being one-hundred- twenty-six (126) miles to the south, and Des Moines being two-hundred-fifteen (215) miles to the east. The surrounding metropolitan areas are easily accessible as a trio of highways are in the immediate area; U.S. Highway 75 stretches vertically along the city, Iowa Highway 3 stretches horizontally along the city, and Iowa Highway 60 is accessible north of the city. Amongst Plymouth County, the City of Le Mars accounts for the largest population and spatial area occupying approximately 8.6785 Square-Miles. In addition to the City of Le Mars being in close proximity to multiple metropolitan areas, the location of the community is unique in that it is approximately twenty-two (22) miles northeast of the point where the borders of South Dakota, Nebraska, and Iowa intersect.

L O C A T I O N M A P N E X T P AGE

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 10 C H A P T E R 2 : COMMUNITY CONTEXT

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 11 C H A P T E R 2 : COMMUNITY CONTEXT C I T Y O R I G I N S Le Mars was once hunting grounds for the early Native Americans. Tribes of Sac, Fox, Western Sioux and Omaha Indians foraged through the open prairies that later became the community of Le Mars. The first settlements in Plymouth County can be found on the banks of the Big Sioux River and the Floyd River. In 1866 Captain B.F. Betsworth settled in what is now known as Le Mars. Four years later the city was platted by John Blair.

In 1872 Le Mars was chosen as the Plymouth County seat and by 1880 the community had a population of 1,895. It has been suggested that the growth could be attributed to an influx of English settlers. The city advertised in England as a training ground for second sons in the areas of farming and raising stock. The city incorporated in 1881. Documents indicate that outside of a few declines in population, the community has progressively been expanding. As the population grew so did the expansion of commercial, industrial and educational opportunities. By 1891 Le Mars had fourteen daily trains, two flourmills, fourteen hotels, twelve churches, four banks, a waterworks, an electric light plant, a gas plant and public schools. Western Union College was dedicated in 1892. This would later become Westmar College. The city also had a shoe factory, a mill machinery plant and a ready-made clothing factory.

Historically, the community has been a progressive economic center that has been able to change with the times. Most of the initial businesses that once thrived in the community are gone but in their places are new industries. However, the biggest and long-standing business that has a national prevalence in the City of Le Mars is the Wells’ Dairy, Inc. Founded in 1913 by Fred Wells, the self-proclaimed ice-cream capital of the world, the Wells’ Dairy, Inc. is the largest family-owned and managed dairy and the largest co-packer of ice-cream in the nation today. Today, the City of Le Mars is a strong independent small town that boasts a community that is strongly attached and thrives on catering to its residents.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 12 C H A P T E R 2 : COMMUNITY CONTEXT T OPOGRAPHY AND S O I L S Land Use planning is a critical component to a community’s future physical and spatial development. An understanding of an area’s natural environment and resources allows for a community to conduct planning practices that will minimize runoff and flooding, promote environmental conservation, and spur cost-effective decisions. The City of Le Mars resides in the Northwest Iowa Loess soil association; group of soils that are closely associated geographically and occur in a characteristic pattern. This soil association occupies approximately seven (7) percent of Iowa and is considered the driest region. The formation of the existing soils primarily occurs as a result of material being transported and deposited by wind and consisting of predominately silt-sized particles. The terrain in the region is generally flat with slopes being predominately level or gently sloping. However, steep slopes bordering major stream valleys exist.

The topography and soils that have accumulated overtime across the City of Le Mars and the surrounding region is the result of glacial action depositing glacial material on its retreat. Data collected from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources indicates there is a large concentration of four major soil types distributed across the City of Le Mars and the surrounding region. A description on the four (4) major soil types (series) existing throughout the area is included in the following:

1) Galva – The existing Galva series is a well-drained soil with a moderate level of permeability that resides in prairie-grass vegetation. Appearing from a dark brown to a yellowish color, the soil possesses a silt clay loam texture. Within the City of Le Mars, the Galva series is concentrated on long uniform slopes that range from two (2) percent to nine (9) percent. Principal crops associated with the series include corn, soybeans, small grains, and legume hay.

2) Galva Benches – Nearly as predominant as the Galva series in the City of Le Mars, the Galva Benches series possesses the same level of permeability, drainage, location, texture, and color features as well. The difference between the two soil series is the Galva Benches series being concentrated on long uniform slopes that range from only two (2) percent to five (5) percent.

3) Kennebec – Primarily found along the western city limits, the Kennebec series is concentrated along flood plains in river valleys and in drainage ways on uplands. The existing soil is moderately well-drained with a moderate level of permeability. Appearing from a dark gray to a brownish color, the soil possesses a silt loam texture. The Kennebec series reside on more leveled slopes that are no higher than two (2) percent. Principal crops associated with the series include corn, soybeans, small grain, alfalfa, and clover.

4) Radford – The least predominant soil series within the city limits, the Radford series is somewhat poorly drained with a moderately slow level of permeability that resides in prairie-grass vegetation. Appearing from a very dark grayish to a brownish color, the soils possess a silt clay loam texture. The Radford series is concentrated on floodplains consisting of level slopes that are no higher than five (5) percent. Adding on as being the least predominant soil series, the Radford series is the least diverse in principal crops associated with the series; corn and soybeans are the principal crops associated with the series.

The four (4) major soil series possess similar attributes and levels of suitability for agricultural land uses. A summary on the concentration of each major soil series throughout the City of Le Mars is provided in the following:

Galva – The Galva soil series coincides well with land use zoning districts where agricultural uses is permitted and emphasized. The attributes of the existing Galva soil series possesses a low soil runoff potential, an ideal bulk density and plant nutrient availability for plant growth, and moderate limitations on choice of crop production. However, there are some concentrations of the soil that require special conservation practices for severe limitations on choice of crop production exist. The Galva soil series exists in the Rural District, Conservation District, Heavy Industrial District, Residential District, Apartment District, and the General Business District. The largest concentration of the Galva soil series is in the area of land designated as Rural District located in the southeast corner of the City limit boundary.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 13 C H A P T E R 2 : COMMUNITY CONTEXT Galva Benches – The Galva Benches soil series possess identical attributes as the Galva soil series except for its level of suitability. The soil possesses less severe limitations as the Galva soil series in some areas of land. The Galva Benches soil series exists in the Rural District, Conservation District, Residential District, Apartment District, Heavy Industrial District, Neighborhood Business District, General Business District, and Central Business District. The largest concentration of the Galva Benches soil series is in the area of land designated as Apartment District, General Business District, and Central Business District located in the central area of the City.

Kennebec – The Kennebec soil series coincides similarly as the Galva soil series does with land use zoning districts where agricultural uses is permitted and emphasized as well. Possessing nearly identical attributes as the Galva soil series regarding soil runoff potential, bulk density, and nutrient availability for plant growth, the soil has less severe limitations on choice of crop production. The Kennebec soil series exists in the Rural District, Conservation District, and the Heavy Industrial District. The largest concentration of the Kennebec soil series is in the area of land designated as Rural District in the northwest corner and the Conservation district along the western City limit boundary.

Radford – The Radford soil series does not coincide as well with land use zoning districts where agricultural uses is permitted and emphasized as the three (3) other major soil series do. The soil does possess similar attributes as the other major soil series regarding soil runoff potential and suitability for crop production, however there are multiple drawbacks that exist. Attributes associated with the Radford soil series raising concern include its bulk density and flooding frequency. The bulk density of the soil series is less than ideal, and in fact, has potential for root growth and plant nutrient availability for plant growth to be hindered. Furthermore, the flooding frequency is the highest of the major soil series ranging from rare to common occurrences. The Radford soil series is scattered amongst the Rural District, Conservation District, Residential District, and the Heavy Industrial District. The largest concentration of the Radford soil series is stretched throughout the Residential District in the central area of the City to the Rural District in the east and southeast areas of the City limit boundary.

In conclusion, the opportunity or availability to conduct agricultural practices and develop agricultural land uses is currently present. The condition of the existing soils is suitable for production on a moderately-diverse range of field crops. However, future developments or production of field crops should be addressed with sustainable and efficient practices to accommodate the existing limitations associated with each major soil series, particularly areas of land where the Radford soil series is present. A brief description of the attributes associated with the major soil series is provided following the soil attribute table.

Attributes

Soils Land Capability ClassHydrological GroupSurface Bulk DensityPermeability Drainage Class Flooding Frequency Galva 2E/3E B 1.25 - 1.3 M W None Galva Benches 1/2E B 1.25 - 1.3 M W None Kennebec 1/2E B 1.25 -1.35 M MW None to Occasionally Radford 1/2E B 1.4 - 1.6 MS SP Rare to Common (Source: United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resources Conservation Service)

S O I L A T T R I B U T E D ESCRIPTIONS

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 14 C H A P T E R 2 : COMMUNITY CONTEXT Land Capability Class – The attribute indicates the soil’s suitability for crop production. A soil’s suitability is determined by its limitations, risk of damage, and how responsive to management it is during crop production. The suitability of a soil is grouped into Capability Classes in ascending order on the severity of its limitations. In addition to the eight (8) Capability Classes, soils are further classified into Subclasses. Description on each Capability Class and Subclass is provided in the following tables.

Capability Class 1 Soils have slight limitations that restrict their use. 2 Soils have moderate limitations that reduce the choice of plants or require moderate conservation practices. 3 Soils have severe limitations that reduce the choice of plants or require special conservation practices, or both. 4 Soils have very severe limitations that restrict the choice of plants or require very careful management, or both. 5 Soils have little or no hazard of erosion but have other limitations, impractical to remove, that limit their use mainly to pasture, range, forestland, or wildlife food and cover. 6 Soils have severe limitations that make them generally unsuited to cultivation and that limit their use mainly to pasture, range, forestland, or wildlife food and cover. 7 Soils have very severe limitations that make them unsuited to cultivation and that restrict their use mainly to grazing, forestland, or wildlife. 8 Soils and miscellaneous areas have limitations that preclude their use for commercial plant production and limit their use to recreation, wildlife, or water supply or for esthetic purposes. (Source: United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resources Conservation Service)

Subclasses e Susceptibility to erosion is the dominant problem or hazard affecting their use. Erosion susceptibility and past erosion damage are the major soil factors that affect soils in this subclass. w Excess water is the dominant hazard or limitation affecting their use. Poor soil drainage, wetness, a high water table, and overflow are the factors that affect soils in this subclass. s Soil limitations within the rooting zone, such as shallowness of the rooting zone, stones, low moisture-holding capacity, low fertility that is difficult to correct, and salinity or sodium content. c Climate (the temperature or lack of moisture) is the major hazard or limitation affecting their use. (Source: United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resources Conservation Service)

Hydrologic Group – The attribute classifies a soil’s runoff potential into one of four groups which is described in the following table.

Hydrologic Groups A Is sand, loamy sand or sandy loam types of soils. It has low runoff potential and high infiltration rates even when thoroughly wetted. They consist chiefly of deep, well to excessively drained sands or gravels and have a high rate of water transmission. B Is silt loam or loam. It has a moderate infiltration rate when thoroughly wetted and consists chiefly or moderately deep to deep, moderately well to well drained soils with moderately fine to moderately coarse textures. C Soils are sandy clay loam. They have low infiltration rates when thoroughly wetted and consist chiefly of soils with a layer that impedes downward movement of water and soils with moderately fine to fine structure. D Soils are clay loam, silty clay loam, sandy clay, silty clay or clay. This HSG has the highest runoff potential. They have very low infiltration rates when thoroughly wetted and consist chiefly of clay soils with a high swelling potential, soils with a permanent high water table, soils with a claypan or clay layer at or near the surface and shallow soils over nearly impervious material. (Source: United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resources Conservation Service)

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 15 C H A P T E R 2 : COMMUNITY CONTEXT Surface Bulk Density – Bulk density is an indicator of soil compaction and soil health. It affects infiltration, rooting depth and restrictions, available water capacity, soil porosity, plant nutrient availability, and soil microorganism activity, which influence key soil processes and productivity. The levels of bulk density and its impact are presented in the following table.

Ideal bulk densities Bulk densities that Bulk densities that restrict root Soil Texture for plant growth affect root growth growth (grams/cm3 ) (grams/cm3 ) (grams/cm3 ) Sands, loamy sands < 1.60 1.69 > 1.80 Sandy loams, loams < 1.40 1.63 > 1.80 Sandy clay loams, clay loams < 1.40 1.60 > 1.75 Silts, silt loams < 1.40 1.60 > 1.75 Silt loams, silty clay loams < 1.40 1.55 > 1.65 Sandy clays, silty clays, clay loams < 1.10 1.49 > 1.58 Clays (> 45% clay) < 1.10 1.39 > 1.47 (Source: United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resources Conservation Service)

Permeability – Soil permeability is the property of the soil to transmit water and air and is one of the most important qualities to consider for fish culture. The permeability of a soil is grouped into one (1) of seven (7) classes based on its rate of transmitting water and air. The following table presents the classes and rates associated with each.

Permeability rates Soil permeability classes cm/hour cm/day Very slow (VS) Less than 0.13 Less than 3 Slow (S) 0.13 - 0.3 12-Mar Moderately slow (MS) 0.5 - 2.0 Dec-48 Moderate (M) 2.0 - 6.3 48 - 151 Moderately rapid (MR) 6.3 - 12.7 151 - 305 Rapid (R) 12.7 - 25 305 - 600 Very rapid (VR) More than 25 More than 600 (Source: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations)

Drainage Class – The attribute determines the frequency and duration of wet periods under conditions similar to those under which the soil developed. A soil’s drainage is classified as Excessively Drained, Somewhat Excessively Drained, Well Drained, Moderately Well Drained, Somewhat Poorly Drained, Poorly Drained, or Very Poorly Drained.

Flooding Frequency – The attribute determines how likely flooding is to occur for each soil series.

S O I L S A N D T O P O G R A P H Y M A P N E X T P AGE

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 16 C H A P T E R 2 : COMMUNITY CONTEXT

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 17 C H A P T E R 2 : COMMUNITY CONTEXT W ATERSHEDS Multiple major streams and watersheds exist in the region. In the immediate vicinity of the City of Le Mars resides the Floyd River watershed. Within the Floyd River watershed and in close vicinity to the community are the Floyd River, West Branch River, and Little Floyd River. Existing Creeks include the Willow Creek and the Deep Creek. The Floyd River Watershed stretches beyond the City of Le Mars region and into the counties of Cherokee, Osceola, Sioux, and Woodbury occupying an area of approximately 892.26 Sq. miles. Additional rivers and creeks outside the immediate area of the City of Le Mars and within the Floyd River watershed include the Mink Creek and Missouri River. The location of the major streams, rivers, and watershed are displayed on the following Floyd River Watershed Map.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 18 C H A P T E R 2 : COMMUNITY CONTEXT P H Y S I C A L A S S E S S M E N T Expanding on the topography and soils section, an understanding on the potentials and limitations imposed by the existing environment is pivotal to have in how decisions affecting the growth and development of the City’s physical landscape are made and how well a City preserves their natural environment.

Concerning the preservation of the natural environment in the City of Le Mars, public input received from residents indicate the community is committed to taking proactive steps that address the following key natural resources:

E C O L O G I C A L E NVIRONMENT The city is committed towards shifting to environmentally-sensitive and sustainable development practices in effort to conserve the surrounding ecological system and to minimize impacts of future developments. Methods and development practices with an emphasis on sustainability is discussed in both Chapter 3: Land Use and Chapter 8: Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources.

W A T E R Q U A L I T Y The city is committed to creating and maintaining an abundance of good quality water through conducting preservation practices targeting creeks, rivers, and open water. An in-depth overview on the current state of the City of Le Mars’ water is discussed Chapter 7: Community Facilities and Services.

G R O W T H T R E N D S A SSESSMENT A cross-assessment of data published by the U.S. Census Bureau with the City of Le Mars previous comprehensive plan indicates the community is experiencing growth. Multiple demographic and development trends have been identified supporting the notion that growth is indeed occurring. The following subsections provide a summary on the emerging trends in the City of Le Mars.

P O P U L A T I O N The City of Le Mars has experienced sound-growth in total population, accounting for approximately a 6.38% increase from the year 2000 to the year 2010. However, Plymouth County and the surrounding region have experienced mixed- results in changes to their respective population. Plymouth County has essentially experienced no growth in its population over the ten (10) year span. Of the surrounding counties, Sioux and Union County have boasted a sound- positive gain in total population. The changes in population for the City of Le Mars and the surrounding region are displayed in the following table.

Place Total Population Natural Change

1990 2000 2010 1990-2000 2000-2010

Cherokee 14,098 13,035 12,072 -7.5% -7.4% Plymouth 23,388 24,849 24,986 6.2% 0.6% Sioux 29,903 31,589 33,704 5.6% 6.7% Union 10,189 12,584 14,399 23.5% 14.4% Woodbury 98,276 10,3877 102,172 5.7% -1.6%

Le Mars 8,454 9,237 9,826 9.3% 6.4%

(퐒퐨퐮퐫퐜퐞: 퐔퐧퐢퐭퐞퐝 퐒퐭퐚퐭퐞퐬. 퐔. 퐒. 퐃퐞퐩퐚퐫퐭퐦퐞퐧퐭 퐨퐟 퐂퐨퐦퐦퐞퐫퐜퐞. 퐁퐔퐑퐄퐀퐔 퐎퐅 퐓퐇퐄 퐂퐄퐍퐒퐔퐒. ퟏퟗퟖퟎ 퐂퐞퐧퐬퐮퐬 퐨퐟 퐏퐨퐩퐮퐥퐚퐭퐢퐨퐧. 퐕퐨퐥. ퟏ. 퐍. 퐩. : 퐧. 퐩. , ퟏퟗퟖퟐ. 퐏퐫퐢퐧퐭 퐔. 퐒. 퐂퐞퐧퐬퐮퐬 퐁퐮퐫퐞퐚퐮) .

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 19 C H A P T E R 2 : COMMUNITY CONTEXT A G E A N D F E M A L E – M A L E P OPULATION On a local scale, the age structure of the City of Le Mars’ population has remained relatively the same over the ten (10) year span. Grouped in five (5) year intervals, the U.S. Census revealed the age-groups experiencing the largest growth in proportion to the total population in the City were residents between 50 years and 59 years of age; age-groups experiencing the largest decrease in proportion to the total population occurred amongst residents between 35 years and 44 years of age. The changes experienced in the mentioned age-groups were no greater than three (3) percent.

2010 Le Mars Population Pyramid

85 years and over 1.6% 4.8% 80 to 84 years 2.4% 3.5% 75 to 79 years 2.7% 3.8% 70 to 74 years 2.8% 3.9% 65 to 69 years 4.1% 4.0% 60 to 64 years 4.5% 4.7% 55 to 59 years 7.2% 6.3% 50 to 54 years 8.0% 7.7% 45 to 49 years 6.9% 7.6% Female 40 to 44 years 5.8% 5.4% 35 to 39 years 6.2% 5.6% Male 30 to 34 years 5.9% 5.8% 25 to 29 years 6.3% 6.0% 20 to 24 years 4.8% 4.8% 15 to 19 years 7.5% 6.8% (Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 10 to 14 years 8.2% 6.7% 2010.) 5 to 9 years 7.4% 6.3% Under 5 years 7.7% 6.3% 10.0% 8.0% 6.0% 4.0% 2.0% 0.0% 2.0% 4.0% 6.0% 8.0% 10.0%

2000 Le Mars Population Pyramid

85 years and over 1.7% 4.1% 80 to 84 years 1.8% 3.7% 75 to 79 years 2.8% 3.7% 70 to 74 years 3.6% 4.4% 65 to 69 years 3.0% 4.0% 60 to 64 years 3.3% 3.9% 55 to 59 years 4.5% 4.4% 50 to 54 years 5.4% 5.1% 45 to 49 years 7.3% 6.6% Female 40 to 44 years 8.7% 7.6% 35 to 39 years 7.2% 7.6% Male 30 to 34 years 6.2% 5.6% 25 to 29 years 6.4% 6.1% 20 to 24 years 5.6% 5.5% 15 to 19 years 8.9% 6.8% (U.S. Census 10 to 14 years 7.6% 7.0% Bureau, Census 2000 Summary 5 to 9 years 7.9% 7.2% File 1) Under 5 years 8.0% 6.7% 10.0% 8.0% 6.0% 4.0% 2.0% 0.0% 2.0% 4.0% 6.0% 8.0% 10.0%

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 20 C H A P T E R 2 : COMMUNITY CONTEXT E T H N I C M AKE - UP The ethnic make-up of the community severely lacks diversity as so does Plymouth County and the state of Iowa. The 2000 and 2010 U.S. Census Bureau indicates the ethnic population of the City of Le Mars has experienced virtually no change. The following table displays the existing proportion of ethnicities that reside in the City of Le Mars compared to Plymouth County, the state of Iowa, and the United States. Outside of the City of Le Mars, let alone the state of Iowa, the United States as a whole has a more diverse population.

Plymouth United Le Mars County Iowa States Ethnicities One race 98.7 99 98.2 97.1 White 94.2 96.4 91.3 72.4 Black or African American 0.5 0.3 2.9 12.6 American Indian and Alaska Native 0.3 0.3 0.4 0.9 Asian 0.7 0.5 1.7 4.8 Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander 0 0.1 0.1 0.2 Two or more races 1.3 1 1.8 2.9

Hispanic or Latino and Race Hispanic or Latino (of any race) 5.4 3 5 16.3 Mexican 4 2.3 3.8 10.3 Puerto Rican 0.2 0.1 0.2 1.5 Cuban 0 0 0 0.6 Other Hispanic or Latino 1.2 0.6 0.9 4 Not Hispanic or Latino 94.6 97 95 83.7 (퐒퐨퐮퐫퐜퐞: 퐔. 퐒. 퐂퐞퐧퐬퐮퐬 퐁퐮퐫퐞퐚퐮, ퟐퟎퟏퟎ)

P O P U L A T I O N P ROJECTIONS The City of Le Mars has shown a consistency in growth in its population for decades. Records detail that the City of Le Mars has boasted a positive gain in total population dating back to the year 1960. As comprehensive plans are created with the future of a community in-mind, it is common to project demographic data into the future as well. Thus, population projections were carried-out; Extrapolation Equation was used to provide an estimate on the future population of the community. The equation does not integrate any social or economic variables when computing a future population, using decennial population totals since the year 1960. Population estimates for the future of the City of Le Mars are provided in the following table:

Le Mars Population 12,000 Population

10,000 8,000 Year Population 6,767 6,000 1960 1970 8,159 4,000 1980 8,276 Population 2,000 1990 8,454 0 2000 9,237 2010 9,826 2020 10,438 2030 11,050 (Source: Census of Population:1980; U.S. Year Department of Commerce Bureau of the Census. U.S. Bureau, 2010.)

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 21 C H A P T E R 3 : L A N D U S E

C H A P T E R 3: L A N D U S E V I S I O N A N D G U I D I N G P RINCIPLES

Vision: The land use and zoning elements of this plan will provide the framework for sustainable, long-term growth that will create vibrant and diverse neighborhoods with nearby amenities and employment opportunities for all residents.

E X I S T I N G L A N D U SE Le Mars’ existing land uses are expressed through the City’s Zoning District Map shown on the following page. The zoning of a parcel of land determines which types of land use will be permitted on that site. The City of Le Mars has 11 different zoning types. Each type has certain permissible and conditional uses. The full description of each zone and its permitted uses are described in the City of Le Mars Code of Ordinances1. A brief summary of each zone is shown below.

 R: Rural District o This is primarily used for agricultural land uses. Single family residential and park preserves are also permissible.  RC: Conservation District o This is primarily used for parks and nature preserves. This is also used for golf courses and agricultural land.  R-1: Residential District o This is used for low density, single-family residential developments. It can also be used for parks and religious institutions.  R-1A: Medium Density Residential District o This is used for medium density, multifamily residential developments. It can also be used for parks and religious institutions.  R-2: Apartment District o This is used for high density, apartment residential developments. It can also be used for bed and breakfasts as well as small restaurants.  B-1: Neighborhood Business District o This zone is used for low density business developments, such as offices, financial institutions, and retail stores. Certain dwellings are also permitted.  B-2: General Business District o This is a business zone used for medium density businesses such as restaurants, hotels, car sale lots, or farm implement stores. Certain dwellings are also permitted.  B-3: Central Business District o This is a high density, business zone that is designed for uses such as office complexes, theaters, or laboratories. Certain dwellings are also permitted.  I-1: Light Industrial District o This is a zone intended for light industrial purposes, such as public utility buildings and services. Other permissible uses include light manufacturing and businesses.  I-2: General Industrial District o This is a zone intended for medium industrial purposes, such as public utility buildings, agricultural storage, or railroad freight terminals. It may also accommodate medium density businesses.  I-3: Heavy Industrial District o This zone is for heavy industrial uses, such as industrial processes involving chemical, mineral, or wood processing. This zone can also permit dwellings for resident watchmen and caretakers.

1 The full City of Le Mars Code of Ordinances is available at: http://www.lemarsiowa.com/DocumentCenter/View/498.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 22 C H A P T E R 3 : L A N D U S E

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 23 C H A P T E R 3 : L A N D U S E Z O N I N G L OCATION AND P E R C E N T S UMMARY The southwest portion of the City is zoned as industrial. This portion of the City has railroad access and is a major center of employment. Conservation and recreation areas are located along the Floyd River, which passes along the north and west portions of the City. Other types of developments have been discouraged in this area in order to avoid developing within the river’s floodplain. The downtown area of central Le Mars is characterized by business development. Other businesses are located around major corridors in the City. Surrounding downtown, a large portion of the area is residential. Most of the constructed dwellings are single family residential units. The rural, agriculturally zoned land can be found in the less populated areas around the edge of the city.

The amount of each zoning district (land use type), as a percentage of total Le Mars land area, is shown in the following graph. The most area is dedicated to R-1 low density residential, at 25% of total area. Other common zones throughout Le Mars include I-3 heavy industrial, R rural, and RC conservation.

R: Rural District B-2: General Business District RC: Conservation District B-3: Central Business District R-1: Residential District I-1: Light Industrial District R-1A: Medium Density Residential District I-2: General Industrial District R-2: Apartment District I-3: Heavy Industrial District B-1: Neighborhood Business District

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 24 C H A P T E R 3 : L A N D U S E A I R P O R T Z ONING Le Mars has airport zoning in addition to its existing land use zoning. The primary purpose of the airport zoning is to ensure the safe travel of aircraft as they enter and exit the airport. The airport zones regulate important factors of air safety, such as building height, lighting, and land use density.

The airport zoning is known as an overlay zoning ordinance. This means that the airport zoning must be considered in addition to the land use zoning. A parcel of land that exists in a land use zone and an airport zone must be in accordance with both zoning ordinances. The different airport zones, and a brief description of each, are listed below:

 Zone A – Runway Protection Zone: o This zone is closest to the ends of the runway and is intended to provide a clear area free of obstructions. The area of Zone A lies completely within Zone B.  Zone B – Approach Surface: o This zone covers the approach and departure areas for the airport runway. The area of this zone was determined based on the type of runway and aircraft that use the airport.  Zone C – Transitional Surface: o This zone includes the areas that are parallel to the runway pavement and extend from the edge of the primary runway surface.  Zone D – Horizontal Surface: o This zone is an elliptical shape surrounding the airport, with size based on runway and aircraft considerations.  Zone E – Conical Surface: o This zone is the outermost zone of the airport zones and has the lease number of land use restrictions.

D EVELOPMENT C ONCEPTS L A N D U S E C ATEGORIES There are a variety of land uses that are present in every city. Some of the most common uses in the City of Le Mars are residential, business, industrial, conservation, and agricultural. For each type of land use, there are varying densities or intensities of use. High density uses would have a large amount of buildings, dwelling units, or employees per acre while low density uses would have less. More information on density of developments can be found in the Housing and Neighborhoods chapter of this document. The specific conditions and requirements that regulate how each type of land is used are done with land use controls.

L A N D U S E C ONTROLS Land use controls are the methods that are used to enforce proper land use in accordance with the City’s plan for development. The most common form of land use control is zoning. The zones that are used by the City of Le Mars are each associated with a set of rules and regulations of how the land can be used for its intended purpose.

For each zone, there are additional land use controls associated with building and construction standards. Other types of land use controls include setbacks requirements, building height restrictions, easements, lot sizes, types of structures, and much more. In Le Mars, easements should be used to ensure that land will be available for the continued development of the community trail. This will help to ensure that the trail can continue to make connections throughout the community. Building height restrictions are of particular importance to the Le Mars airport, which needs to ensure an unobstructed path for all of its flights. Currently, the most frequent type of variance requested from the City of Le Mars, is a setback change. The most commonly requested change is a side setback in an older neighborhood. Greater flexibility on setbacks could better accommodate older neighborhoods that may not conform to newer development standards.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 25 C H A P T E R 3 : L A N D U S E L A N D U S E C OMPATIBILITY Zoning has many benefits for the community. Zoning can prevent incompatible land uses from being located adjacent to each other. This can prevent nuisances like noise and smell from affecting areas where people live. It can also ensure that properties have adequate lighting and space. The reduction of exposure to such nuisances helps to improve the quality of life of everyone within the community.

Zoning can also help to preserve environmental or sensitive areas. There are often natural areas that are valuable to the community and should be preserved from development. Also, zoning can prevent development in sensitive areas, such as a floodplain. In Le Mars, the Floyd River flows through town and has a floodplain. Development should be discouraged in this area in order to prevent damage to developments.

Zoning is also capable of preserving and protecting property values. A zoning code ensures that all developments will be built to a certain standard. This helps to prevent unconventional nuisance properties from being built and lowering the property values of nearby homes.

Zoning also serves as an effective tool for the implementation of this comprehensive plan. Zoning can be effectively used to accomplish the goals of the other chapters of this plan. Zoning can be used to promote necessary housing, transportation improvements, and community development goals.

S USTAINABILITY Sustainable land use planning and design can have significant benefits for the City of Le Mars. It is important to consider environmentally sensitive areas that should be preserved. For example, the floodplain of the Floyd River is a sensitive area. Within this area, there is a much greater chance of flooding. Development within the floodplain may lead to negative effects on property owners whenever flood conditions exist. The floodplain area could be preserved for recreation activities such as parks and trails.

It is also important to consider the financial sustainability of developments. Property tax revenue is the primary source of income for local governments. Therefore, developments should be planned in a way that increases property values and makes the best use of the limited land that is available. Typically, the most financially sustainable type of development is a dense, mixed use neighborhood. This type of development has a high number of uses on a small amount of land, which maximizes tax revenue. Furthermore, this type of development minimizes city costs by reducing the amount of public infrastructure, such as roads and public utility lines that need to be built.

In addition, mixed use development is becoming increasingly popular. This type of development was requested by residents of Le Mars during the public input process of this plan2. Many residents expressed the desire to live near businesses and other amenities. They would prefer to have close access to a variety of land uses in order to avoid having to drive across town to a different land use area for every trip they make.

F L O O D P L A I N M A P N EXT P AGE

2 See Appendix A for a full summary of the public input.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 26 C H A P T E R 3 : L A N D U S E

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 27 C H A P T E R 3 : L A N D U S E A NNEXATION AND G R O W T H A REAS Le Mars is expecting many changes in the future. The City of Le Mars’ population and labor force are both expected to grow. In order to accommodate this growth, additional land will be required. Furthermore, it is important to plan for the land use outside of the City boundary because all platting that occurs within a two mile radius around the city limits will require Plymouth County to consult with the City of Le Mars. For these reasons, it is important to have a plan in place for how the land surrounding the Le Mars city limits should be used.

The Plymouth County zoning designations are:

 A-1: Primary Agricultural  TA-1: Transitional Agricultural  CL: City Limits  C-1: Commercial  I-1: Industrial  CO: Conservation Overlay  R-1: Rural Residential  LHOD: Loess Hills Overlay District

One major area of growth for the City of Le Mars is the Highway 75 Bypass Urban Renewal Area. This is a 5,000 acre area that surrounds Highway 75 as it passes by Le Mars. This land is planned to be acquired by the City of Le Mars and will likely be developed. The future land use map shows the inclusion of this area and its proposed zoning.

Le Mars will likely grow in other areas as well. The industrial area on the south side of the City will likely experience growth as the existing industrial park runs out of available parcels. The railroad can be extended south to provide more industries with freight access. Also, within the City boundary, some of the rural areas will likely change to residential or neighborhood business in order to accommodate a larger population.

P L Y M O U T H C O U N T Y Z O N I N G M A P N E X T P AGE

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 28 C H A P T E R 3 : L A N D U S E

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 29 C H A P T E R 3 : L A N D U S E F U T U R E L A N D U SE The future zoning guide for the City of Le Mars is shown on the following map. This map is only intended to serve as a guide for future development. Actual zoning will likely vary. A current zoning map can be requested from the City of Le Mars3. The proposed future land use shows a growth in zoning and development both within and outside of the current city boundary. Much of the land within the city boundary that was previously zoned as rural has been rezoned for other uses, such as additional housing, business, or industry.

Sources that were utilized to draft the proposed land use changes within and outside the city include: Highway 75/60 Relocation Corridor Action Development Plan and Guide for Growth, existing land use patterns, and comments from the Le Mars public meetings. The following Zoning Districts were used to draft the proposed Land Use map on the following page.

R: Rural District RC: Conservation District R-1: Residential District R-1A: Medium Density Residential District R-2: Apartment District B-1: Neighborhood Business District B-2: General Business District B-3: Central Business District I-1: Light Industrial District I-2: General Industrial District I-3: Heavy Industrial District

P R O P O S E D L A N D U S E O U T S I D E T H E C ITY Proposed land uses outside of the City are currently within the jurisdiction of Plymouth County. The current Plymouth County zoning districts are shown in the map on the previous page. Any proposed land use changes outside the municipal boundary would first require annexation. If the City expands, the proposed land uses are proposed to accommodate future housing, commercial, industrial, recreational uses and public buildings.

The new development proposed outside of the city boundary is primarily located around the Highway 75/60 interchanges along the north and west sides of Le Mars. A corridor development plan for the Highway 75/60 corridor was jointly funded by Le Mars and Plymouth County. The proposals of the study are shown in the future proposed land use map.

3 The City of Le Mars can be reached at 712-546-7018.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 30 C H A P T E R 3 : L A N D U S E

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 31 C H A P T E R 3 : L A N D U S E G OALS , O BJECTIVES , A N D A CTIONS The City of Le Mars will strive to achieve the following land use goals and objectives.

G O A L L U 1 : Promote more mixed use development. Objective LU1.1: Provide incentives for more mixed uses on a single parcel. Objective LU1.2: Create more neighborhood businesses in residential areas. Objective LU1.3: Allow for greater flexibility for mixed use developments in the zoning code.

G O A L L U 2 : Encourage sustainable development and design. Objective LU2.1: Avoid developing within the Floyd River floodplain. Objective LU2.2: Encourage sustainable building design standards. Objective LU2.3: Preserve land for recreation and preservation purposes. Objective LU2.4: Consider the financial sustainability of new developments.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 32 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS C H A P T E R 4 H OUSING AND N EIGHBORHOODS V I S I O N

Housing and Neighborhood Vision: To develop safe, nuisance free, accessible, diverse neighborhoods with amenities such as greenspace, parks, trees, beautiful landscaping, street connectivity, trails and sidewalks. And to develop diverse housing types that are safe, accessible, nuisance free, affordable, well-maintained, aesthetically pleasing, and have access to retail, schools, library, and public wireless fiber optic internet (wi–fi).

L E M A R S H OUSING A N D N EIGHBORHOODS O P E N H O U S E S U M M A R Y On June 7, 2016 a public open house was hosted by the City to gather the community opinion and foundation for this Housing chapter. The full results of the open house are stated in Appendix A. At the open house, participants were asked questions about housing and neighborhoods. Please find below a summary of the main themes derived from the public comments under each topic.

A good neighborhood is . . .  Safe (friendly, low traffic, watch out for each other)  Nuisance free (well-maintained, quiet, no odor, compliance with zoning)  Accessible and Connected (walkable, bikeable, access to amenities, well-maintained roads sidewalks)  Greenspace (nearby parks, trails, mature trees)  Diverse (variety of people, housing, commercial businesses and building types)  Family Oriented (good schools, playgrounds for children, things for all ages)  Consistency in housing style and well kept  Pride and privacy

Neighborhood improvements and housing that we would like to see . . .  More recreational trails and parks (trees, city garden)  Housing diversity (variety of home types, senior, ranch, apartment, duplex, town house, single family)  Nuisance elimination (quiet zones, reduce smell, weed control, abandoned vehicles/bldgs, up keep, clean)  Transportation (grid layout, fewer cul-de-sacs, well-maintained sidewalks, infrastructure, and street names)  Affordable housing  Neighborhood retail (in west and north)  Better appearance (entrances and landscape beautification)  City wide public Wifi  Near Schools

Desired long term housing goals  Rehabilitation and upkeep (incentives to rehabilitate or demolish, increase code enforcement)  Housing variety (mix of home type, price, tenure)  More development (build more homes, develop interchange/bypass, subdivisions, planned development)  Access to amenities (recreation facilities, schools, library, walking, biking)

Desired long term neighborhood goals  Development patterns (interchange development, grid pattern, infill, growth, new development and business)  Amenities (greenspace, parks, landscapes, art, trails, walkability, trees, livability)  Housing variety and mixed use (variety of housing types and prices, more neighborhood commercial)  Nuisance elimination and incentives for rehabilitation

I O W A S M A R T P L A N N I N G G U I D I N G P RINCIPLES

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 33 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS The State of Iowa adopted a Smart Planning Guide to assist local communities with the development of Comprehensive Plans. The Guide encourages diversity in the types of available housing, support for the rehabilitation of existing housing, and the promotion of the location of housing near public transportation and employment centers. Housing objectives and programs should further the vitality and character of established residential neighborhoods and new residential neighborhoods and ensure an adequate housing supply that meets both the existing and forecasted housing demand.

In order to follow the guiding principles stated above, this housing section includes: An inventory and analysis of the neighborhood and housing stock with elements of age, condition, type, market value, occupancy, and historical characteristics of all the housing within Le Mars. This section also identifies goals and objectives that promote the development of new housing and maintenance or rehabilitation of existing housing that meet the needs of the residents of Le Mars.

2015- 2 0 2 0 L E M ARS H OUSING N EEDS A SSESSMENT S UMMARY In 2015, SIMPCO conducted an extensive housing needs assessment for the City of Le Mars. The document includes census data, surveys, and recommendations. Information from the assessment is included in this housing chapter including goals and objectives. Chapter summaries from the 2015-2020 Le Mars Housing Needs Assessment are stated below.

Chapter 1: Demographic Trends Population and Household Growth Trends includes: Age Distribution, School Enrollment Trends, Household Income, Housing Affordability, Household Tenure, Senior Population Trends and Implications. Demographic information was collected from the US Census Bureau and the American Community Survey. Both data sets are valuable and provide a current snapshot of Le Mars housing and population data.

Chapter 2: Economic Trends includes information about Le Mars Employment, Labor Force, Wages, and Commuting Patterns. This information was used as a reference in the development of the Economic Development Chapter of this Comprehensive Plan.

Chapter 3: Housing Characteristics includes: Units in Structure, Age of Housing Stock, Vacant Housing, Housing Conditions, Building and Demolition Permits 2005-2014, Subdivisions 2005-2015 and Current Housing Policy. The current housing policy has included working with housing developers and stakeholders, urban revitalization tax exemption, development agreements and flexibility in housing development regulations.

Chapter 4: For-Sale Market Analysis includes: For-Sale Overview, Realtors and Lenders, and Owner Survey. In summary, the for-sale market in Le Mars is primarily single-family homes. Housing development is returning to the community after limited development following the recession. According to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) Le Mars’ average home sale prices have increased since 2005.

Chapter 5: Rental Market Analysis includes: Rental overview, General Occupancy Development, Senior Occupancy Development, and Renter Survey. In summary the majority of rental units are multi-family developments. According to the American Community Survey, Le Mars’ rents are relatively affordable. In general, rental vacancy rates and senior occupancy vacancy rates are low.

Chapter 6 Conclusions and Recommendations includes Demographic Profile and Housing Trends, New Housing Demand, Strategies and Actions. In summary, the biggest trend affecting the current housing market in Le Mars is the relative scarcity of housing. Le Mars has a high demand for housing because of its strong economy, good schools, and desirable neighborhoods.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 34 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS

E X I S T I N G N EIGHBORHOODS AND H O U S I N G C ONDITION The existing general neighborhoods in Le Mars are illustrated in the map below. The seven neighborhoods can be analyzed by the general age of structures or year built and condition of the buildings and housing. The 2015 Le Mars Housing Assessment included an extensive windshield survey to determine housing conditions in the city. The overall condition of 3,276 structures was based on appearance of the paint, siding, windows, foundations, roofs, sidewalks and yards. Structures were rated as Excellent, Good, Fair, or Poor. Results of the 2015 windshield survey are listed below. Conditions were aggregated to the neighborhood level to allow for comparison between areas of the City. Major roads were used as boundaries between the seven neighborhoods.

Housing Condition by Le Mars Neighborhoods (2015 Housing Assessment)

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 35 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS U R B A N A REAS The City of Le Mars utilizes economic development districts to stimulate housing and development in the City. The City has a history of Tax Incremental Financing (TIF) areas that facilitate public improvements and infrastructure, incentivize economic development, and stimulate redevelopment through rebates and grant agreements. The historic Westmar Urban Renewal / TIF Area is one example that was instrumental in transforming the former Westmar College campus into active uses. The following major districts or areas are active in the City and further described below.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 36 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS

Le Mars Urban Renewal Area / Tax Incremental Financing (TIF) The Le Mars Urban Renewal Area is a Tax Incremental Financing (TIF) district that has undergone numerous amendments throughout the years. The area has been instrumental in the creation and expansion of the City’s industrial parks. The Le Mars Urban Renewal Area will expire in 2017.

Le Mars Highway 75 Bypass Urban Renewal Area / Tax Incremental Financing (TIF) The Le Mars Highway 75 Bypass Urban Renewal Area is a Tax Incremental Financing (TIF) district and will expire in January 2029. The area started as a joint effort between Plymouth County and the City of Le Mars known as the Plymouth County/Le Mars Highway 75 Bypass Urban Renewal Area. In 2015, the plan was amended to eliminate the County’s involvement. A joint land use study including this area was completed in 2003 and updated in 2010.

Le Mars Urban Revitalization Area The Le Mars Urban Revitalization Area includes all property within the city. The Urban Revitalization Area is intended to encourage development, redevelopment & revitalization within the City of Le Mars by authorizing property tax development incentives to the private sector. The area was approved by City Council in 2012 and only included residential. It was amended in 2016 to include multi-family and commercial uses. Since its inception, 120 properties have taken advantage of the program.

Urban Revitalization Area Eligible Improvements Land Use Type of Improvement Tax Exemption Residential New, Rehabilitation and Additions On the first $75,000 of actual value added for a period of 5 years Multi-Residential New 7 years on 100% of actual value added Commercial New 3 years on 100% of actual value added

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 37 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS Y E A R R ESIDENTIAL S T R U C T U R E S B UILT Le Mars Neighborhoods can also be studied by the year that the residential structures were built. Below is a map illustrating the historic progression of residential development in Le Mars since 1880. The map shows a steady progression of housing development outward from the commercial core or downtown Le Mars. Data used to create the map below was gathered from the Plymouth County Assessor.

A G E O F H O U S I N G U NITS

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 38 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS The graph below shows the distribution of housing units in Le Mars by the age of the structures. The statistics show that a majority of the housing in Le Mars was built prior to 1940 (21.3%) and from 1960 to 1969 (16.3%). This data may indicate a substantial need for rehabilitation and/or replacement of housing units in Le Mars. Despite the age of the housing stock in Le Mars, many older homes are well-maintained and preserved which adds variety and value to historic neighborhoods.

K E Y F INDINGS FROM L E M A R S 2015 H O U S I N G C O N D I T I O N A SSESSMENT The 2015 Le Mars Housing Assessment included an extensive windshield survey to determine housing conditions in the city. The overall condition of 3,276 structures was based on appearance of the paint, siding, windows, foundations, roofs, sidewalks and yards. Structures were rated as Excellent, Good, Fair, or Poor. Key findings of the 2015 windshield survey are listed below.

 Approximately 6% rated as ‘Excellent’ condition - Structure recently built and meets codes. Excellent maintenance suggests that this property will likely remain in good condition.

 Approximately 87% rated as ‘Good’ condition - Structure recently built and meets codes or an older property which has been maintained. Little surface wear is apparent and repairs are not needed.

 Approximately 5% rated as ‘Fair’ condition - Sound structure but in need of surface maintenance. Shows signs of wear and needs some investment before attaining a condition rating of ‘Good.’

 Approximately 0.3 % rated as ‘Poor’ condition - Significant wear is noticeable and the structure may be unsound or totally substandard. The structure requires significant investment to upgrade its condition rating or may need to be demolished.

H O U S I N G O CCUPANCY AND T ENURE

H O U S I N G O CCUPANCY

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 39 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS Le Mars has seen consistent housing growth for the past two decades. A detailed comparison of housing occupancy and tenure can be found in the tables below. According to the US Census Bureau decennial census data, Le Mars has experienced a consistent increase in the number of housing units since 1990. Le Mars experienced a (9.5%) increase in total housing units from 2000-2010 and outpaced Plymouth County (6.4%) in the same time period.

The statistics reveal that Le Mars has low overall vacancy rates in comparison to Plymouth County. As the number of housing units in Le Mars increased, the home owner vacancy rates decreased. From 2000-2010 the homeowner vacancy rate decreased -0.4% and the rental vacancy rate decreased -0.80%. In 2010 Le Mars had a lower percentage of vacant housing units (4.9%) than Plymouth County (6.4%).

Housing Occupancy 1990 2000 2010 Change 2000-10 Le Mars Number Percent Number Percent Number Percent Number Percent Total housing units 3,280 -- 3,818 -- 4,220 -- 402 9.52% Occupied housing units 3,158 96.20% 3,640 95.30% 4,013 95.10% 373 9.29% Vacant housing units 122 3.71% 178 4.70% 207 4.90% 29 14.00% Homeowner vacancy rate ------1.90% -- 1.50% -- -0.40% Rental vacancy rate ------6.80% -- 6.00% -- -0.80%

1990 2000 2010 Change 2000-10 Plymouth County Number Percent Number Percent Number Percent Number Percent Total housing units -- -- 9,880 -- 10,550 -- 670 6.35% Occupied housing units -- -- 9,372 94.90% 9,875 93.60% 503 5.09% Vacant housing units -- -- 508 5.10% 675 6.40% 167 24.74% Homeowner vacancy rate ------1.80% -- 1.60% -- -0.20% Rental vacancy rate ------7.40% -- 10.80% -- 3.40% Source: US Census Bureau

H O U S I N G T ENURE Both owner and renter housing units have steadily increased over time in Le Mars. The housing tenure statistics reveal that Le Mars experienced a 6.95% increase in owner-occupied housing units and a 14.81% increase in renter-occupied

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 40 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS units from 2000-2010. In comparison Plymouth County experienced a 5.09% increase in owner-occupied housing units and a 24.74% increase in renter-occupied units from 2000-2010.

In Le Mars, from 2000-2010 the average household size of owner-occupied units decreased (-4.29%) from 2.67 to 2.56. In the same time period the average household size of renter-occupied units increased (4%) from 1.92 to 2. In comparison, Plymouth County average household size of owner-occupied units decreased (-5.4%) from 2.73 to 2.59. In the same time period the average household size of renter-occupied units decreased (-2.31%) from 2.21 to 2.16.

Housing Tenure 1990 2000 2010 Change 2000-10 Le Mars Number Percent Number Percent Number Percent Number Percent Total Occupied housing units 3,158 -- 3,640 -- 4,013 -- 373 9.29% Owner-occupied housing units 2,224 70.42% 2,622 72% 2,818 70.20% 196 6.95% Renter-occupied housing units 919 29.10% 1,018 28% 1,195 29.80% 177 14.81% Average household size of owner-occupied unit -- -- 2.67 -- 2.56 -- -0.11 -4.29% Average household size of renter-occupied unit -- -- 1.92 -- 2 -- 0.08 4.00%

1990 2000 2010 Change 2000-10 Plymouth County Number Percent Number Percent Number Percent Number Percent Total Occupied housing units -- -- 9,372 9,875 503 6.35% Owner-occupied housing units -- -- 7,260 77.50% 7,699 78% 439 5.09% Renter-occupied housing units -- -- 2,112 22.50% 2,176 22% 64 24.74% Average household size of owner-occupied unit -- -- 2.73 -- 2.59 -- -0.14 -5.40% Average household size of renter-occupied unit -- -- 2.21 -- 2.16 -- -0.05 -2.31% Source: US Census Bureau

H O U S I N G V ARIETY The variety and condition of the housing stock in a community provides the basis for an attractive living environment. Housing is the primary building block of neighborhoods and creates a base to support population and household growth, employment growth and community services. The 2005-2010 Le Mars Housing Market Analysis revealed a timeless fact that housing is a critical factor among employers when considering where to locate, and their ability to grow their businesses. Communities that do not have an adequate supply of housing units that are affordable to workers and

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 41 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS appropriate to their needs and preferences are at a significant disadvantage. Therefore, having a variety of diverse housing types that appeal to all ages is essential to successful community planning.

Housing can be classified in a variety of ways including: the ownership style or tenure (rent or own), price, number of housing units on a property or within one structure (i.e. single-family, duplex, multi-family), age of housing units, architectural style, and market type or life-cycle type. This section explores the many different types of housing units and affordability to create an inventory of housing in Le Mars.

H O U S I N G V A L U E A N D A FFORDABILITY Affordable housing is a complex topic that includes many factors discussed in this section. The analysis in this section includes the value of owner-occupied units and gross rents in 2000 and 2010 by the number of units within each value- range, and a description of housing affordability. The following statistics reveal that in 2010 the majority of the housing stock in Le Mars was valued between $50,000 - $149,999.

Owner-Occupied Housing Value 2000 2010 Change 2000-10 Le Mars Owner-Occupied Units Number Percent Number Percent Number Percent Total Units 2,213 3,010 797 26.47% Less than $50,000 207 9.40% 188 6.20% -19 -10.10% $50,000 to $99,999 1,053 47.60% 912 30.30% -141 -15.46% $100,000 to $149,999 565 25.50% 875 29.10% 310 35.42% $150,000 to $199,999 217 9.80% 502 16.70% 285 56.77% $200,000 to $299,999 139 6.30% 440 14.60% 301 68.40% $300,000 to $499,999 32 1.40% 83 2.80% 51 61.40% $500,000 to $999,999 0 0% 10 0.30% 10 100.00% $1,000,000 or more 0 0% 0 0.00% 0 -- Median (dollars) $92,600 -- $119,000 $26,400 22.18% Source: US Census Bureau

Le Mars Gross Monthly Rent

The graph and table below illustrate the housing value of renter-occupied units in Le Mars. US Census collects the number of renter-occupied units with gross rents in eight dollar categories ranging from $200 or less to $1,500 or more. The rents generally went up in Le Mars between 2000 and 2010. The greatest shift is in the $500-$749 category. Several units in this category were added or increased from 2000 to 2010. According to the US Census data, the majority of

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 42 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS rental units in Le Mars in 2010 ranged from $300 and $749 (72.8%). The graph below shows the change, from 2000 to 2010, in the percent of units in each dollar rent category.

Renter-Occupied Housing Value 2000 2010 Change 2000-10 Le Mars Gross Rent Number Percent Number Percent Number Percent Total Units 1,027 -- 927 -100 -9.73% Less than $200 76 7.40% 54 5.80% -22 -28.94% $200 to $299 189 18.40% 61 6.60% -128 -67.72% $300 to $499 452 44% 272 29.30% -180 -39.82% $500 to $749 243 23.70% 403 43.50% 160 65.84% $750 to $999 20 1.90% 104 11.20% 84 420.00% $1,000 to $1,499 0 0 33 3.60% 33 100.00% $1,500 or more 37 3.60% 0 0.00% -37 -100.00% No cash rent 10 1% 13 0.00% 3 -- Median (dollars) $404 -- 528 $124 22.18% Source: US Census Bureau

US Census Gross Rent Definition: Gross rent is the contract rent plus the estimated average monthly cost of utilities (electricity, gas, and water and sewer) and fuels (oil, coal, kerosene, wood, etc.) if these are paid by the renter (or paid for the renter by someone else).

Le Mars Household Income

The graph and table below show the percentage of 2010 Le Mars annual household incomes. In 2010 the majority of households in Le Mars earned an annual income between $50,000 and $74,999 (23.5%).

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 43 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS

Income Households Families Nonfamily Less than $10,000 2.70% 0.00% 8.10% $10,000 to $14,999 4.70% 0.00% 14.20% $15,000 to $24,999 15.80% 7.20% 34.40% $25,000 to $34,999 9.40% 7.50% 14.50% $35,000 to $49,999 15.50% 17.10% 12.30% $50,000 to $74,999 23.50% 27.30% 14.60% $75,000 to $99,999 12.30% 17.00% 1.80% $100,000 to $149,999 9.70% 14.50% 0.00% $150,000 to $199,999 4.30% 6.30% 0.00% $200,000 or more 2.10% 3.10% 0.00% Total Number 3,950 2,648 1,302 Median income (dollars) 51,121 68,028 21,182 Mean income (dollars) 62,936 79,481 28,278 Source: 2010 US Census Bureau Family household (Family)- A family includes a householder and one or more people living in the same household who are related to the householder. Nonfamily - A nonfamily householder is a householder living alone or with nonrelatives only.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 44 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS Affordable Housing Analysis Housing serves as more than just shelter. Research has shown that affordable and stable housing can be a platform for families' education, health, and economic wellbeing (Brennan 2011; Brennan and Lubell 2012; Cohen 2011). An adequate supply of housing affordable to all residents contributes to a sustainable and diverse community. Because needs for lower-cost housing generally are not well served by the market, local governments, along with their private- sector and nonprofit partners, play a critical role in building and preserving affordable housing (American Planning Association, Viveiros and Sturtevant, 2014).

The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) defines the need for affordable housing as families who pay more than 30 percent of their income for housing. Individuals or families that pay more than 30% of their income for housing are considered cost burdened and may have difficulty affording necessities such as food, clothing, transportation and medical care (US HUD.gov). Using this definition we can estimate the affordable annual housing cost as 30% of the Le Mars median income ($15,366).

An estimated 12 million renter and homeowner households now pay more than 50 percent of their annual incomes for housing. A family with one full-time worker earning the minimum wage cannot afford the local fair-market rent for a two-bedroom apartment anywhere in the United States. - US HUD.gov

Home Owner Affordability

It is an industry standard that a household can afford to purchase a home priced about 2½ times their annual income. Based on this standard, a household with the median income ($51,121) in Le Mars could afford a home of roughly $127,802 in value. This calculation does not consider an individual’s debt or savings in qualifying for housing.

It should be noted that this standard does not factor in equity in an existing home or a substantial personal savings, which would enable some households with the median income4 to afford higher priced housing. Conversely, some households with the median income, but with large debt, would not qualify for housing priced at $127,802. Given that the median price of an existing home in Le Mars is $92,600, most residents earning at or slightly above the median income would be able to purchase a home.

Monthly Rent Affordability and Subsidized Housing

The statistics above can assist with estimating the monthly affordability of housing in Le Mars. A householder earning Le Mars’ median income would be able to afford monthly housing costs of $1,278 (30% of median income). According to the US Census data, the majority of rental units in Le Mars in 2010 ranged from $300 to $749 per month (72.8%). Residents earning at or above the median income would be able to afford the majority of rental units in Le Mars. But residents with large debt or who are earning less than the median income would need some form of assistance to afford rental units.

To qualify for most subsidized housing in Le Mars, households must have annual incomes at or below 80 percent for lower and 50% for very low of Plymouth County’s median income, depending on household size (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development). As of 2013, HUD considers Plymouth County’s median income to be $73,086. Thus, a resident in Le Mars may be eligible if earning $58,468 (80% of median income) or $36,543 (50% of median income). The estimates may vary depending on program availability, household size, and income.

N UMBER OF HOUSING UNI TS IN STRUCTURE

4 The median is the middle number in a series of numbers.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 45 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS The US Census Bureau collects housing type information including the number of units within a structure. The graph and table below show the distribution of the housing units in Le Mars and deciphers the housing variety by structure type. The following categories are included in the data with Census definitions as applicable:  1-unit, detached - This is a 1-unit structure detached from any other house, that is, with open space on all four sides. Mobile homes to which one or more permanent rooms have been added or built also are included.  1-unit, attached - This is one structure that has one or more walls extending from ground to roof separating it from adjoining [separately owned] units. In row houses, townhouses, double houses, or houses attached to nonresidential structures, each house is a separate, attached structure if the dividing or common wall goes from ground to roof. Ex. condominium is a type of ownership that enables a person to own an apartment in a development of similarly owned units and hold joint ownership in common areas.  2 units – Duplex, two-family dwelling. These are units in structures containing 2 units.  Mobile home - Both occupied and vacant mobile homes to which no permanent rooms have been added are counted in this category. Excludes: used only for business, extra sleeping space, for sale units, or in storage.  Boat, RV, van, etc. - This category is for any living quarters occupied as a housing unit that does not fit the previous categories. Ex. houseboats, railroad cars, campers, and vans.

A RCHITECTURAL STYLE

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 46 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS Housing development styles and affordability are mainly based on architectural style and density. A variety of housing architectural styles can be found in Le Mars. The diversity of architectural style adds to the character and selection of housing. Different styles appeal to different people. As stated in the housing sections above, the majority of homes in Le Mars are single-family, one-unit, detached (71.9%). The following architectural styles were found in a windshield survey of Le Mars.

Two-story Gable Roof Ranch Hip Roof

Two-story Gambrel Roof Attached Garage Multi-family Brick Mansard Roof

Contemporary Two-story Attached Garage Two-story Tuck-under Garage

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 47 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS D ENSITY Residential housing density is most often calculated as housing units per acre. Using the Le Mars City Ordinance, the estimated residential density for each zoning district is displayed in the table below. Le Mars' ordinance categorizes density by stating minimum lot sizes for single-family, two-family, and multiple-family dwellings. Residential housing is allowed as mixed-uses or stand-alone structures in some of the business and industrial zoning districts (See table below).

The following diagram depicts various residential housing densities. (www.quora.com) The image shows one acre blocks and a range of densities from 1-126 dwelling units per acre. The image is meant to assist in visualizing the different densities in the table above (e.g. 1 dwelling unit per acre is depicted on the far left of the diagram below).

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 48 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS M A R K E T O R L IFE - C Y C L E T Y P E A N D O C C U P A N T A GE Le Mars can appeal to all ages and abilities by providing a variety of housing styles or life-cycle types. The Le Mars 2005 Housing Market study provided a list of life-cycle types that assist in housing development and analysis. The following list provides a framework to consider different individual needs and stages of human life. Other elements to consider in housing development are the average age of householders in Le Mars and senior housing discussed below.

Life-cycle Stages Entry-level householders  Often prefer to rent basic, inexpensive apartments  Usually singles, occasionally unrelated roommates or couples without children in their early 20’s First-time homebuyers and move-up renters  Often prefer to purchase modestly-priced single-family homes or rent more upscale apartments  Usually married or cohabitating couples, some with children, but most are without children, in their mid-20’s or 30’s Move-up homebuyers  Typically prefer to purchase newer, larger and therefore more expensive single-family homes  Typically families with children where householders are in their late 30’s to 40’s Empty-nesters (persons whose children have grown and left home) and never-nesters  Prefer owning but will consider renting their housing  Seek freedom from home maintenance  Generally couples in their 50’s or 60’s Younger independent seniors  Prefer owning but will consider renting their housing  Will often move (at least part of the year) to retirement havens in the Sunbelt and desire to reduce their responsibilities for upkeep and maintenance  Generally in their late 60’s or 70’s Older seniors  May need to move out of their single-family home due to physical and/or health constraints or a desire to reduce their responsibilities for upkeep and maintenance  Generally single females (widows) in the mid-70’s or older

Senior Housing The term senior housing refers to any housing development that is restricted to person’s age 50 or older. We all age and reach a point where we may not be able to maintain our home on our own. Traditionally, there are two main categories of senior housing (Nursing home and assisted living) however there is a market for living in place and housing design or redevelopment that allows seniors to stay in their homes. The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) provides a list of home improvements that can aid in living in place and allowing seniors to stay in their homes. Some of the modifications include: • Improve access by installing ramps or railings or by widening doors and halls. • Add grab bars to make baths and showers more accessible and to reduce the likelihood of falls. • Set up a bedroom designated for the live-in. • Chairs should have high seats and strong, unpadded arms to make them easy to sit in and get up from. • The quality and quantity of lighting in the design is especially important for persons with vision problems.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 49 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS N EIGHBORHOOD D ESIGN Neighborhood design matters environmentally, economically and socially. Good neighborhood design can protect landscapes and habitats, reduce energy costs, reduce infrastructure costs, and foster a healthy society. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design – Neighborhood Design (LEED-ND) is a best practice in planning and provides neighborhood design goals for communities to follow. Neighborhood design includes consideration of street patterns, parking, setbacks, landscaping, building height and style, and connectedness.

Green Neighborhood Goals

1. Location within or connected to existing communities 2. Compact, complete, connected design 3. Green construction In Le Mars the Green Neighborhood Goals listed above can provide a framework for good neighborhood design. With new development and re-development the City can strive to connect to existing neighborhoods and services by connecting streets, sidewalks, and trails. Complete streets design is a best practice in planning that supports street design which includes all modes of transportation (walk, bike, auto, bus, etc.). The City can consider compact mixed-use development (residential, commercial uses on the same lot or near) that may reduce infrastructure costs and increase accessibility. Le Mars neighborhoods can include parks, greenways, trees and landscaping that connect to one another. Finally, Le Mars may consider green building design and construction that can reduce energy costs, increase efficiency, and increase environmental preservation.

I N F I L L H OUSING AND G R O W T H A REAS Le Mars has some opportunity for infill housing and designated growth areas. Infill housing is a best practice in planning because of its many benefits including: conservation of land, minimizing the cost of infrastructure expansion and maintenance, and beautification of vacant or dilapidated property or buildings. Le Mars currently offers incentives to develop vacant and dilapidated housing through urban revitalization.

Housing growth areas exist inside and outside the City boundary. The photo below shows a growth area in south Le Mars where new housing and infrastructure has been built. Residentially zoned property exists in the growth areas and the properties can accommodate a variety of densities. Two main areas outside the city are considered for housing growth to the northwest and the south. The land use chapter of this comprehensive plan includes a map of future housing growth areas outside the municipal boundary.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 50 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS G O A L S A N D O BJECTIVES The following goals and objectives were drafted based on existing documents and current research. Sources that were reviewed and used to draft the following the goals and objectives include: 2016 Comprehensive Plan open house summary, 2005 Comprehensive Plan, 2015 Housing Assessment, and information compiled and discussed in this chapter. G O A L H N 1 : Promote economic development through housing and neighborhood planning Objective HN1.1: Protect Le Mars’ existing assets and resources including employment opportunities, a downtown commercial district, strong schools and numerous community facilities and services. Objective HN 1.2: Build single-family housing developments for above• average or high-income households. Objective HN 1.3: New housing developments need to be adjacent to or near linear parks (recreational trails - not strictly bicycle or walking trails). Objective HN 1.4: Promote second story renovations in the downtown properties into housing or business spaces Objective HN 1.5: Attract new families to Le Mars G O A L H N 2 : Provide an ample supply of safe, diverse types of housing Objective HN 2.1: Build housing that is attainable for rent or purchase by all residents Objective HN 2.2: Promote construction of energy-efficient affordable single-family housing Objective HN 2.3: Promote rehabilitation and maintenance of existing housing stock Objective HN 2.4: Provide incentives for construction of high quality, affordable housing - Promising Strategies for Affordable Housing (American Planning Association Housing Choice Study Results 2004) • Citizen Education on handling money and credit • Authorization for inclusionary zoning • Development of rental housing production capacity • Incentivized housing trust fund for realtors and bankers • Education campaign on benefits of affordable housing • Real estate transfer tax for affordable housing • Banking land for affordable housing • Cooperative efforts outside government • Training local officials concerning affordable housing Objective HN 2.5: Educate the public on the benefits of home maintenance and the resources available to assist homeowners. Objective HN 2.6: Promote conversion of existing structures into affordable rental housing Objective HN 2.7: Implement down payment assistance programs and first-time buyers programs Objective HN 2.8: Continue activities of the Le Mars Housing Review Board (LHRB) Objective HN 2.9: Provide more development (build more homes, develop interchange/bypass, subdivisions, planned development) Objective HN 2.10: Develop moderate/subsidized and high-end rental-or-owner housing units with shared amenities Objective HN 2.11: Consider mobile homes or modular housing as an affordable housing alternative

G O A L H N 3 : Ensure adequate opportunities are provided for the development of housing for seniors and other populations with special needs. Objective HN 3.1: Construction of barrier-free and/or assisted• living housing (with rental assistance) for the elderly based on established needs. Objective HN 3.2: Promote living in place and aid that allows seniors to stay in their homes Objective HN 3.3: Provide appropriate housing for people of all ages and abilities Objective HN 3.4: Plan for rolling over housing units and the transition of an aging population G O A L S A N D O B J E C T I V E S C ONTINUED

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 51 C H A P T E R 4 : HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS G O A L HN 4: Promote planned neighborhood development Objective HN 4.1: Ensure that growth occurs within neighborhoods and not separate disconnected developments Objective HN 4.2: Encourage the formation of neighborhoods as development occurs in new areas of the community, as well as in existing areas. Reinforce and foster the following characteristics of good neighborhoods:  Human scale buildings and open spaces  Linkages to other neighborhoods and the city center  A safe environment, accessible for emergency services (friendly, low traffic, watch out for each other)  Nuisance free (well-maintained, quiet, no odor, compliance with zoning)  Accessible and Connected (walkable, bikeable, access to amenities, well-maintained roads sidewalks, grid-pattern, mixture of uses)  Greenspace (nearby parks, trails, mature trees)  Diverse (variety of people, housing, commercial businesses and building types)  Family Oriented (good schools, playgrounds for children, things for all ages)  Consistency in housing style and well kept  Pride and privacy G O A L HN 5: Improve quality of life Objective HN 5.1: Expand on and improve code enforcement of ordinances relating to the appearance of neighborhoods. Objective HN 5.2: Develop strategies for promoting well-maintained neighborhoods. Objective HN 5.3: Enforce housing codes with regards to safety, health and lead-based paint. Objective HN 5.4: Promote housing rehabilitation and upkeep (incentives to rehabilitate or demolish) Objective HN 5.5: Create Housing variety (mix of home type, price, tenure) Objective HN 5.6: Promote housing that has access to amenities (recreation facilities, schools, library, walking, biking)

G O A L HN 6: Coordinate housing actions Objective HN 6.1: Develop a coordinated action and marketing plan with timelines responsible parties Objective HN 6.2: Utilize existing active community volunteer involvement on housing issues Objective HN 6.3: Prioritize housing issues and establish actions and timelines to indicators of success in addressing housing needs Objective HN 6.4: Build public/private partnerships Objective HN 6.5: Access all available resources for housing –local, Federal and State programs - Submit application(s) to Federal and State housing programs (e.g. Iowa Department of Economic Development, Iowa Finance Authority, HUD and USDA). Objective HN 6.6: Establish monthly schedule for the Le Mars Housing Committee to meet; encourage public input. Objective HN 6.7: Develop a staff relationship with area housing agencies and with other area communities – consider joint grant applications.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 52 C H A P T E R 5 : ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

C H A P T E R 5: E C O N O M I C D EVELOPMENT Economic Development Vision: Promote a sustainable economy by revitalizing the downtown area and creating additional commercial nodes to aid in the recruitment and retention of a range of businesses that generate local employment opportunities, provide necessary goods and services, expands city’s tax base and improve quality of life.

E X I S T I N G E C O N O M I C C ONDITIONS E M P L O Y M E N T T R E N D S I N L E M ARS The City of Le Mars is expanding in size and population as the city continues to attract young families, and businesses. The Figure below illustrates the changes in the number of people employed and in the labor force in Le Mars from 2000- 2014. The term ‘Employed’ includes all civilians 16 years old and over who were either (1) at work5; or (2) were with a job but not at work6 (US Census Bureau). The term labor force includes all people classified in the civilian labor force, plus members of the U.S. Armed Forces (people on active duty with the United States Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard). The Civilian Labor Force consists of people classified as employed or unemployed (US Census Bureau). From 2000 to 2014 the City of Le Mars’ labor force increased by +975 people. The local economy of the City of Le Mars is expected to expand in the future as the city continues to provide higher order services to smaller communities within Plymouth County.

EMPLOYMENT T R E N D S ( 2 0 0 0 - 2 0 1 4 ) 6000

5000

4000

3000 People

2000

1000

0 2000 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Employed 4560 5560 5540 5592 5528 5410 labor force 4651 5725 5691 5748 5766 5626

Source: U.S. Bureau, American Community Survey, ACS 4-year estimates 2010-2014

5 At work - those who did any work at all during the reference week as paid employees, worked in their own business or profession, worked on their own farm, or worked 15 hours or more as unpaid workers on a family farm or in a family business. 6 With a job but not at work - those who did not work during the reference week but had jobs or businesses from which they were temporarily absent due to illness, bad weather, industrial dispute, vacation, or other personal reasons. Excluded from the employed are people whose only activity consisted of work around the house or unpaid volunteer work for religious, charitable, and similar organizations; also excluded are people on active duty in the United States Armed Forces. The reference week is the calendar week preceding the date on which the respondents completed their questionnaires or were interviewed. This week may not be the same for all respondents.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 53 C H A P T E R 5 : ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT U NEMPLOYMENT R ATE The unemployment rate in the City of Le Mars was 4 percent in 2014; this is 2 percent higher than the year 2000 and 1 percent higher than that of the county (see Figure below). The labor force of Plymouth County increased in the second quarter of 2016 while unemployment in the County declined. Also, average weekly wage in the county increased by 11 percent between 2014 and 2015. A greater percent of the growth in the County’s economy is expected to occur in the City of Le Mars since Le Mars’ local share of the County’s jobs was slightly above 39 percent in 2014.

Comparison of Unemployment Rate between Plymouth County and Le Mars

5%

4%

4%

3%

3%

2%

2%

1%

1%

0% 2000 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Le Mars 2% 3% 3% 3% 4% 4% Plymouth Co. 3% 4% 4% 4% 4% 3%

Source: U.S. Bureau, American Community Survey, ACS 4-year estimates 2010-2014

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 54 C H A P T E R 5 : ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT I N D U S T R Y D ISTRIBUTION Le Mars’ local economy is fairly diverse, even though manufacturing was the biggest industry in 2000 and 2014. In 2014, Manufacturing Industry’s share of the local jobs was 26 percent; followed by Education and Health Service (23%), and Retail Trade (13%). Other prominent industries include Construction (7%), Leisure and Hospitality (7%), Transportation and Utilities (6%). Wholesale Trade and Information industries provided the least employment in 2014 (see Figure 3). The diversified nature of Le Mars’ economy has contributed significantly in stabilizing the job market of the city in the years following the economic recession. The local market is relatively insulated from significant ebbs and flows within particular industries by not being overly reliant on any one industry.

T O P S I X I N D U S T R I E S ( 2 0 0 0 A N D 2 0 1 4 ) 30%

25%

20% Construction Manufacturing 15% Retail trade

Shareof Jobs Trans/util. 10% Edu./Health Leisure/Hosp. 5%

0% 2000 2014 Year

Source: U.S. Bureau, American Community Survey, ACS 4-year estimates 2010-2014

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 55 C H A P T E R 5 : ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT L E M A R S M A J O R E MPLOYERS The major employers in the City of Le Mars reflect the current diversity of the local economy of the city. The top twenty employers are mainly in Manufacturing, Transportation, and Utility, Leisure, and Hospitality, Trade (retail and wholesale), Construction and Finance (See table below). The CBD and the Heavy Industrial District of the City of Le Mars contain more than 5600 jobs per Sq. Mile. As one move farther from the core of the city the job per Sq. Mile drop to about 5 to 29. The remaining jobs in the City of Le Mars are dispersed among the General Business District, the General Industrial District, and the Light Industrial District. The Neighborhood Business District hosts the least jobs (1-3 jobs) in the City of Le Mars. The city’s top twenty employers generate more than 40 jobs each and together bring in more than $3.5 billion in sales to the local economy annually (ReferenceUSA, 2016).

Top 20 Businesses in the City of Le Mars Estimated Employer Primary NAICS* Description Employees Wells Enterprises Inc. 1,350 Dairy Product (Exc Dried Or Canned) Mrchnt Whlsrs Dean Foods 500 Dairy Product (Exc Dried Or Canned) Mrchnt Whlsrs Floyd Valley Health Care 320 Offices Of Physicians (Exc Mental Health Specs) Schuster Co LLC 290 General Freight Trucking, Local Walmart Supercenter 240 Department Stores (Except Discount Dept Stores) National Guard 150 Hy-Vee Pharmacy 125 Pharmacies & Drug Stores Bodeans Baking Co 100 Snack & Nonalcoholic Beverage Bars Derocher Pre-Cast Mfg 80 Other Commercial & Service Industry Machinery Mfg Bodeans Wafer Co LLC 75 Frozen Fruit Juice & Vegetable Manufacturing Anthony's P & L Inc. 70 Specialized Freight (Exc Used Gds) Trckng Lng-Dist Le Mars Family Clinic 70 Offices Of Physicians (Exc Mental Health Specs) Plymouth Life Inc. 65 Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Fclts) Plymouth Manor Care Ctr 65 Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Fclts) Family Medicine Clinic Phys 60 Freestanding Ambulatory Surgical & Emergency Ctrs East Side Restaurant 52 Full-Service Restaurants Archie's Waeside Steakhouse 50 Full-Service Restaurants Derocher Construction 50 New Single-Family Hsng Constr (Exc For-Sale Bldrs) Smithco 50 Truck Trailer Manufacturing YMCA 50 Child & Youth Services Primebank 40 Commercial Banking Sources: Reference USA, 2016 and 2014 Plymouth County Hazard Mitigation Plan *North American Industry Classification System (NAICS)

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 56 C H A P T E R 5 : ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT L I V I N G A N D W O R K I N G I N L E M A R S (COMMUTING ) In 2014, approximately 4,468 workers living in the neighboring cities commuted to the City of Le Mars to work; this represents about 62.4% of employment in the city. Slightly above 49 percent of Le Mars’ residents worked outside the city limit while 2,688 residents of Le Mars worked within the city proper for the year 2014 (see Figure below). The City of Le Mars stands a chance of retaining the workers that commute to the city as residents as they continue to make efforts to enhance the quality of life of their citizens.

Commuting Patterns in the City of Le Mars (2014)

Source: U.S Census Bureau, Local Employment Household Dynamics on the Map Mapping tool

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 57 C H A P T E R 5 : ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT M O D E O F C OMMUTING TO WORK Le Mars’ residents commute to work either by walking, biking or driving a vehicle (car, truck, van). The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that 93 percent drove a car, truck or van to work in 2014. The majority of the residents of Le Mars drove alone to work while slightly below 10 percent carpooled in 2010 and 2014. In 2012, the Le Mars’ residents who carpooled to work were slightly above 10 percent (see Table below). The City of Le Mars like the majority of the cities in the Midwest is auto-dependent; this call for the need for the city to continue to promote infill and compact development that will encourage walking and biking to work. This form of development also has the potential to improve the quality of life of people in the City.

Mode of Commuting to Work Modes of Transportation 2010 2012 2014 Car, truck, or van – Drove alone 82.4% 82.4% 83.30% Car, truck, or van - carpooled 8.1% 10.1% 9.70% Workers per car, truck, or van 1.05 1.06 1.06 Public transportation (excluding taxicab) 0.7% 0.5% 0.10% Walked 2.8% 1.7% 2.40% Bicycle 0.3% 0.6% 0.50% Taxicab, motorcycle, or other means 1.5% 1.9% 2.00% Worked at home 4.1% 2.8% 2.10% Source: U.S. Bureau, American Community Survey, ACS 4-year estimates 2010-2014

The majority of Le Mars’ residents commute less than 10 minutes to work. On the average the residents of Le Mars commute between 13 and 14 minutes to work daily (see Table below).

Commuting Time To Work Commute Time 2010 2012 2014 Less than 10 minutes 46.6% 47.6% 55.10% 10 to 19 minutes 27.3% 23.1% 19.5% 20 to 29 minutes 9.5% 12.8% 8.3% 30 to 59 minutes 14.8% 14.5% 16% 60 or more minutes 1.9% 2% 1% Mean travel time to work (minutes) 14.2 14.7 13 Source: U.S. Bureau, American Community Survey, ACS 4-year estimates 2010-2014

I N C O M E C O M P A R I S O N The median household income in the City of Le Mars increased by 27 percent between 2000 and 2014; this is 8 percent less than that of the county. The City of Le Mars’ median family income increased approximately 4.5 percent higher than that of the county between 2000 and 2014. Le Mars’ median family income and per capita income is just under 4 percent less than that of the county for the year 2014. The city’s median household income, on the other hand, was 16 percent less than that of Plymouth County (see Table below).

Income Comparison with Plymouth County

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 58 C H A P T E R 5 : ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Year Le Mars Plymouth County Median Median Per Median Median Per Household Family Capita Household Family Capita Income Income Income Income Income 2000 38,892 47,409 19,598 41,638 50,009 19,442 2010 51,121 68,028 26,077 56,379 69,261 28,060 2011 50,957 68,607 25,760 56,389 70,737 28,660 2012 52,599 71,268 27,873 58,916 72,380 29,020 2013 52,348 73,389 26,911 58,888 73,086 27,942 2014 49,459 69,907 26,782 57,583 71,762 27,848 Source: U.S. Bureau, American Community Survey, ACS 4-year estimates 2010-2014

Income Range

The following chart measures the City of Le Mars 2010 levels of income with Plymouth County, the state of Iowa, and the United States.

Income Ranges 2010

30.00%

25.00% 20.00% 15.00% 10.00% Le Mars

5.00% %of Households 0.00% Plymouth County Iowa United States

Income Levels

Household Income

The 2010 U.S. Census Bureau reveals both emerging household income trends and consistencies for the City of Le Mars when compared to Plymouth County, the state of Iowa, and the United States. The City of Le Mars median household income has increased to $51,121. Examining both the 2000 and 2010 U.S. Census Bureau, the City of Le Mars is continuing to record a lower average median household income than Plymouth County and the United States. However, the newest figures indicate a shift in comparison to the state of Iowa; the City of Le Mars is averaging a higher median household income than the state of Iowa. In the following chart, the median household income of Le Mars, Plymouth County, state of Iowa, and United States is displayed.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 59 C H A P T E R 5 : ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Median Household Income 2010 58,000

56,000

54,000

52,000

50,000 Median Household Income

48,000

46,000

44,000 Le Mars Plymouth County Iowa United States

Per Capita Income

The Per Capita Income measures the average annual financial earnings of individuals in an area. The following table shows Le Mars Per Capita income compared to Plymouth County and the state of Iowa from 1990-2014. Prior to the release of the 2010 U.S. Census Bureau, the City of Le Mars consistently recorded a higher average per capita income than Plymouth County and a lower average than the state of Iowa between the years of 1990 and 2000. However, newly recorded figures show the trends have reversed, with the City of Le Mars averaging a lower per capita income than Plymouth County and a higher average than the state of Iowa. Despite the changes in trends when compared to Plymouth County and the State of Iowa, the City of Le Mars has continually experienced an increase in its per capita income since the year 1990.

Per Capita Income 1990 2000 2010 2014 Le Mars $12,051 $19,598 $26,077 $26,782 Plymouth County $11,507 $19,442 $28,060 $27,848 Iowa $17,380 $19,674 $25,335 $27,621

E C O N O M I C D EVELOPMENT C ONCEPTS D O W N T O W N D EVELOPMENT The City of Le Mars’ downtown serves as a civic, employment, cultural, entertainment and residential hub. The downtown hosts more than 20 businesses. Since 2004 the City has invested $204,000 in downtown façade improvements with grant funding. The downtown offers a variety of businesses that fall within the following North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) categories: Retail Trade, Leisure and Hospitality, Public Administration, Industrial and Professional Services. The commercial and semi-public uses will continue to dominate the uses in the downtown area. However, the city should continue to promote mixed use development (multifamily or single-family residential and commercial uses) within the district and adjacent area.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 60 C H A P T E R 5 : ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT The downtown features several second floor housing units and will continue to encourage infill and additional residential development. Mixed use development strengthens the businesses while contributing to the uniqueness of the downtown area as a place to live, shop, dine, work and invest. Infill and adjacent development should complement the historic character of the downtown; utilizing similar architectural elements and materials.

Le Mars’ historic downtown is promoted throughout the region and protected by historic preservation. Several programs and groups are dedicated to the preservation and vitality of downtown Le Mars including the Historic Preservation Commission, Le Mars Chamber of Commerce, and the Main Street Program. The map illustrates historic downtown Le Mars and highlights properties that are historically significant. The City will continue to invest in the Main Street Program geared towards maintaining and improving the downtown historic character and expanding the economic base of the area.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 61 C H A P T E R 5 : ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT S TREETSCAPING AND P LACEMAKING Streetscaping and placemaking approaches aim to create a place as a destination rather than a place to get through. That is a place where people walk, bike and use public transit and drive less; where people can socialize, sit, relax, chat, and have fun. Great public spaces are those places that are easily accessible; where people are comfortable and engage in activities; a place that has a good image, and where people can socialize - one where people meet each other and take people when they come to visit.

As stated earlier, the City of Le Mars is auto-dependent and dominated by hard concrete surfaces and parking lots (especially the downtown area). Except for the Central Avenue NW corridor, where trees, seats, and receptacles are available, the rest of the downtown area lacks these basic amenities. The majority of the sidewalks are narrow, not ADA complaint and without any special pavement design to enhance the aesthetic of the downtown area. The city should continue to improve the uniqueness of the downtown by adding in new pavement design to the sidewalk, trees, and landscape strips, provide additional seats, curb extensions at intersections, public art, and screening parking lots with vegetation. The City should continue to make effort to improve the Olson Cultural Event Center to accommodate large and special events. The city should screen dumpsters, recycling, and other utility areas to help create clean, inviting spaces. These improvements have the potential to spur local economic activities, revitalize the downtown, increase private investment, and support the development of a good business climate in the city.

E C O N O M I C R ESILIENCY AND D IVERSIFICATION The City of Le Mars’ economy is fairly diverse. Manufacturing, Leisure and Hospitality, Education and Health Service, Retail Trade, and Transportation and Utilities employ the largest percent of the City of Le Mars’ residents. The Food Processing Industries/Food Manufacturing dominates the Manufacturing sector in the City of Le Mars. The majority of these Food Manufacturing Industries are dependent on Wells Enterprises Inc. These businesses are likely to relocate should Wells Enterprises Inc. decide to leave the city. Though this situation will not completely stagnate the local economy, since the rest of the industries together, employ 74 percent of the City of Le Mars’ residents, its magnitude will be enough to slow down the growth of the local economy for several years. This situation calls for the need to put in place measures to attract other manufacturing industries that are not dependent on Wells Enterprises Inc. The additional businesses will provide adequate insulation to the city should Wells Enterprises Inc. decide to leave the city. The only way to fortify a city’s economy is to ensure that it is diversified; this is what the City of Le Mars should strive to attain.

T O U R I S M Tourism plays an important role in a city’s economy. Tourism supports commercial businesses such as Trade (retail and wholesale), Leisure and Hospitality, Banking and others. Tourism boosts the growth of a city’s economy by attracting non-residents to spend their dollars in the city. A facility developed for tourism purpose usually has a limited economic impact if it attracts only residents; this is because the residents do not bring in any new dollars to the economy. The City of Le Mars should ensure that any improvements made to boost the tourism sector have the ability to attract more non- residents to the city.

The City of Le Mars is a destination for the majority of tourists in the Midwest area. Some of the places in the City of Le Mars that attract people to the city include Convention Center, Foster Park, Municipal Park, Olson Cultural Events Center, Willow Creek Banquet, Brown Theater, Plymouth County Historical Museum, Plymouth County Fair Grounds and

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 62 C H A P T E R 5 : ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT others. According to the City Mayor the annual County Fair and other events held in the city together brings in more than 15,000 people and over $35,000 in economic activity to the city annually.

The U.S. Travel Association estimates that the domestic travelers’ (state residents and out-of-state visitors) spending in Plymouth County has been increasing steadily from 2002 to 2015 (see Chart below). The domestic travelers’ spending in Plymouth County has increased at an average of $910,000 per year from 2002 to 2015. The domestic travelers’ spending categories in Iowa include Foodservice, Lodging, Auto Transportation, Entertainment and Recreation and General Retail. According to the U.S. Travel Association, in 2014, 9.8 percent of the domestic travel expenditures in Iowa were on Entertainment and Recreation; this increased to 10.3 percent in 2015. In 2015, U.S. Travel Association ranked Plymouth County as the 41st County in the State of Iowa regarding traveler’s expenditure level.

Domestic Traveling Expenditure in Plymouth County, 2002 to 2015

$30

$24.35 $24.48 Millions $25 $23.17 $23.72 $21.84 $19.35 $19.62 $20 $19.09 $17.56 $17.78 $16.29 $15.16 $15 $13.89 $12.65

$10

$5

$- 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Years

Source: U.S. Travel Association, 2002 to 2015

I NDUSTRY AND B U S I N E S S A TTRACTION , E XPANSION AND R ETENTION Attracting new businesses, retaining and growing existing businesses are keen to the economic growth of the City of Le Mars. The City of Le Mars should continue its branding and marketing campaign. This campaign is vital for the city to attract new businesses, retain and grow existing ones. The city should continue to market priority sites for infill development, redevelopment, new development and adaptive re-use as well as the available financial tools and incentives to make the project feasible for developers, businesses, and institutions. The city could do this through mailing and distribution of brochure, usage of billboards, website postings, updating listings on relevant real estate sites, and attendance of City staff and other public partners at local, regional and national conferences and trade organization meetings.

The city should continue to maintain a good relationship with the business community both interpersonal and regulatory partnerships. The City Hall Staff should exhibit good customer services towards the business community when interacting with them and ensure that their satisfaction is of high priority. The city should collaborate with the Chamber of Commerce to appoint persons for various business issues and host breakfasts, banquets, or meeting with the business community to promote a good relationship. The existing business regulations in the city’s ordinance should be clear, and easy to follow. City ordinance exists to promote the health, safety and welfare of the Le Mars community; however,

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 63 C H A P T E R 5 : ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT unnecessary regulations can stifle investment and inhibit job growth. The city should review and update the existing development regulations and processes following the adoption of the comprehensive plan to ensure they are efficient.

The city should continue to leverage the presence of higher education and health institution to grow the local economy. The majority of cities in the country have embraced these types of employers as a core element of their economic development strategies. The city has an array of institutions within Education and Health Industries including Buena Vista University, Western Iowa Tech Community College, Life Skills Training Center Inc. Le Mars Beauty College, and Floyd Valley Health Care. The city should continue to partner with these institutions to initiate programs such as workforce training programs, curriculum alignment, transportation infrastructure or workforce housing. The Chamber of Commerce should encourage business to a business relationship where institutions with large purchasing power will buy from small businesses (e.g. a university cafeteria ordering all of their bread from a local baker).

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 64 C H A P T E R 5 : ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT W O R K F O R C E A TTRACTION AND R ETENTION Attracting new workforce/residents and retaining the existing ones can bring life and investment to declining areas of the city, generate new tax revenue for the city and increase the local consumers for businesses. There exist several opportunities in the City of Le Mars to attract new residents, convert commuters and retain students attending the colleges in the city.

As noted earlier, approximately 4,468 non-residents commute to the city for work. The majority of these workers drive close to 25 miles or more to work. The city should partner with the Chamber of Commerce and the major employers to determine how they could utilize incentives to promote the conversion of these non-residents. The city should also determine the areas and forms for such incentives. The incentive program may be in the form of a short-term loan or zero percent interest loans. The non-residents can utilize this incentive program to purchase or rent a home in the city. Working with the business community the city should development marketing campaign targeted towards these commuters. The marketing campaign should focus on the housing options in the city, reasons for living in the city and benefits for reducing the commuting time to work.

For the city to attract and maintain young professionals, the city should focus on the following areas:  Ensure that young professionals have access to information on employment opportunities in the city  Revitalizing the downtown area and continuing to make it a place to live, have fun and socialize  Improving the trail and sidewalk network and reducing the need for an automobile, and  Emphasizing the low cost of living relative to other areas in the marketing campaign targeted towards young professionals.

E C O N O M I C O PPORTUNITY A R E A S W O R K F O R C E D EVELOP MENT , E DUCATION , A N D E NTREPRENEURSHIP The city should continue to partner with Le Mars’ School District, high education, workforce development organizations, private companies (Both Profit Organizations and Not for Profit Organizations) to create a healthy environment for community workforce to learn and develop themselves. Partnership with these institutions will offer opportunities to the city to adapt curricula to respond to the employment needs of the city. The city should continue to work with the Le Mars’ School District to encourage Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) educational programs.

The city should continue to collaborate with the Chamber of Commerce to organize programs that will connect students to employers in the city for internships and summer employment opportunities. The internship opportunities prepare students for the job market and allow them to familiarize themselves with the challenges of emerging employment opportunities. This program affords the employers to train the next generation of employees in the best practices of emerging industries.

Entrepreneurial support (start-up toolkit and mentor programs) programs should be encouraged to enable new business starters to solidify themselves in the city's economy. These programs will help create and grow young businesses. The city should collaborate with the Colleges and the Chamber of Commerce to create an incubator space (especially in the downtown area) where the city will administer the entrepreneurial support programs.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 65 C H A P T E R 5 : ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT L E M A R S E C O N O M I C D EVELOPMENT O P E N H O U S E S U M M A R Y On July 12, 2016 a public open house was hosted by the City to gather the community opinion and foundation for this Economic Development chapter. The full results of the open house are stated in Appendix A. At the open house, participants were asked questions about the economy of the City of Le Mars. Please find below a summary of the main themes derived from the public comments under each topic.

Characteristics of a Strong Economy . . .  Prospering financial establishment/banks  Diversity in type of business  Tourism  Amenities  High quality of life  Attracting and retaining workforce  Educational opportunities

Improvements we want to see………  More retail mix  Diversified industry/businesses  Attracting and retaining businesses  Opportunities to create and grow small businesses  Attracting and retaining workforce  Revitalize downtown and improve housing options for all

Making Le Mars more Attractive to Businesses  Infrastructure development  Incentives for new businesses  Education and training opportunities  Trained and skilled workforce  Good quality of life  Diverse housing options and additional recreational opportunities

K EY BUSINESS R ESOURCES AND W ORKFORCE D EVELOPMENT PARTNERS Iowa Small Business Development Center (SBDC) SBDC provides free, confidential and adaptive advice and consulting to entrepreneurs and existing businesses with 500 employees or less. SBDC also organize affordable workshops that teach practical skills and techniques, conduct research, provide comprehensive information services, and offer access to subject matter experts in a variety of fields.

Small Business Administration SBA is an independent agency created to aid, counsel, assist and protect the interest of small businesses. The SBA helps American start, build and grow businesses, through an extensive network of field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. SBA also provides financial assistance to businesses in the form of loans and grant.

Iowa Source Link The Iowa Source Link is a web-based portal that connects entrepreneurs to a network of 360 plus nonprofit resources organizations that provide business-building services. The web-based portal provides firms with free, easy access to the help they need - when they need it.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 66 C H A P T E R 5 : ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Iowa’s West Coast Initiative The Economic Development Organizations in Plymouth, Monona, and Woodbury Counties initiated the Iowa’s West Coast Program. The Iowa’s West Coast Initiative affords people to collaborate and explore their entrepreneurial ideas and inspire them to put those ideas into action.

Iowa Industrial New Jobs Training Program Iowa Industrial New Jobs Training Program provides financial support to businesses which are expanding their Iowa workforce, with new employee training. Iowa’s 15 community colleges finance this program through the sale of bonds. Depending on wages paid, the business participating in the program then diverts 1.5 or 3 percent of the Iowa State withholding taxes generated by the new positions to the community college to retire the bonds.

Iowa Apprenticeship Program The Iowa Apprenticeship Program is available to increase the number of registered apprentices in Iowa by providing grants to eligible apprenticeship programs. Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) administers this program in collaboration with the United States Department of Labor (DOL).

Community College Consortium The Community College Consortium program provides funding assistance for community college-sponsored employee training projects in which two or more businesses participate. For a business to be eligible, it must be located in a Community College District.

Iowa Jobs Training Program The Iowa Jobs Training Program provides job training services to current employees of eligible businesses located in Iowa. Eligible businesses can work with their local Iowa Community College, which will assess training needs, determine funds availability and provide training.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 67 C H A P T E R 5 : ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT G OALS , O BJECTIVES , A N D A CTIONS G OAL : E D A 1 P ROMOTE INDUSTRIAL DI VERSIFICATION BY REC RUITING , INCENTIVIZING , A N D R E T A I N I N G HIGH - QUALITY BUSINESSES E D A 1 . 1 : Promote a business-friendly environment that encourages the retention, growth, and continuity of businesses. E D A 1 . 2 : Support regional economic development programs that incentivize development and economic activity that are in line with the city’s aspirations. E D A 1 . 3 : Collaborate with the private sector and other housing providers in meeting the housing demands of employers and employees. E D A 1 . 4 : Embark on branding and marketing campaigns on the area’s quality of life and the low cost of doing business to attract new businesses needed to diversify the economy E D A 1 . 5 : Serve as a coordinator, facilitator, and connector between economic development organizations and local business E D A 1 . 6 : Continue to provide financial incentives in the form of tax abatement and tax increment financing (TIF) to retain, and recruit new businesses and direct business growth to declining areas of the city. E D A 1 . 7 : Continue to update and maintain a database of available resources for existing and new businesses E D A 1 . 8 : Revitalize the downtown area and create additional commercial nodes to encourage business expansion and attract new businesses.

G OAL : E D A 2 B UILD AND MAINTA IN AN EDUCATED AND S KILLED WORKFORCE THA T MEETS THE NEEDS OF LOCAL BUSIN ESSES AND INCREASES ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITI E S F O R RESIDENTS E D A 2 . 1 : Work with a consulting firm to research the workforce and talent needs and gaps of current and targeted businesses and industries. E D A 2 . 2 : Partner with the area’s educational institution to adapt educational and training programs to fill the employment gaps of the city. E D A 2 . 3 : Encourage programs that align high schools with Community Colleges and four-year institutions EDA 2 . 4 : Support training and apprenticeship programs for job seekers and incumbent workers to find and advance in high-value, high-wage jobs. E D A 2 . 5 : Work with the Chamber of Commerce to initiate internship programs for the youth in the city. E D A 2 . 6 : Facilitate the marketing of city’s job opportunities in higher educational institutions and brand the city as an attractive place to live.

G OAL : E D A 3 E NSURE THAT L E M ARS IS A PLACE WHERE PEOPLE CAN START AND GROW THEIR BUSINESSES E D A 3 . 1 : Continue to update and maintain a database of available entrepreneurship resources in the region E D A 3 . 2 : Establish an entrepreneurship leadership council to create and oversee existing and new entrepreneurship programs in the city. E D A 3 . 3 : Work with the business community to identify and remove barriers to establishing new businesses within the city. E D A 3 . 4 : Partner with the higher educational institution in the city to establish business incubators in the downtown area

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 68 C H A P T E R 5 : ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT E D A 3 . 5 : Partner with County, State, and National level entrepreneurial networks to market and promote the city’s entrepreneurial efforts

G OAL : E D A 4 C ONTINUE TO UPDATE AN D MAINTAIN INFRASTRU CTURE TO SUPPORT EXI S T I N G A N D NEW BUSINESSES

E D A 4 . 1 : Utilize public-private partnership model to develop, fund and deliver critical infrastructure E D A 4 . 2 : Continue to use capital improvement plans to prioritize infrastructure investments. E D A 4 . 3 : Partner with state agencies dedicated to financing important critical infrastructure needed for economic development E D A 4 . 4 : Maintain a safe and efficient airport to meet the City’s air transportation needs for economic development

G OAL : E D A 5 E NSURE THAT L E M A R S I S A P LACE WHERE PEOPLE WI LL WANT TO LIVE , WORK , PLAY AND LEARN E D A 5 . 1 : Invest in updating and maintaining amenities such as parks, trails, recreation spaces, cultural places, and community spaces to make Le Mars a choice for businesses and residents E D A 5 . 2 : Support the development of a complete multimodal transportation network that considers pedestrians, bicyclists, transit and automobiles. E D A 5 . 3 : Encourage the expansion and diversification of retail opportunities to allow residents to meet more of their needs locally. E D A 5 . 4 : Collaborate with the School District to ensure they offer the highest quality of education curriculum for residents E D A 5 . 5 : Ensure that a diverse; attractive and affordable housing options are available for existing and potential workforce

G OAL : E D A 6 S U P P O R T T O U R I S M B ASED - E CONOMIC DEVELOPMENT E D A 6 . 1 : Continue to expand, update and maintain meeting spaces and recreational facilities to attract people to the city E D A 6 . 2 : Improve the uniqueness and sense of place of the city by identifying and preserving the city’s heritage and cultural resources E D A 6 . 3 : Support and promote arts and culture in the City of Le Mars E D A 6 . 4 : Increase marketing campaign on attractive areas, arts, and heritage festivals to expand cultural tourism.

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C H A P T E R 6: T RANSPORTATION V ISION A N D G U I D I N G P RINCIPLES

Vision: The transportation network of Le Mars should be a well-maintained system that promotes multimodal, complete-streets policies that improve the safety, efficiency, and connectivity for all users.

E X I S T I N G T RANSPORTATION I NFRASTRUCTURE P EDESTRIAN Walkability is an incredibly important for of transportation for many people. Sidewalks and walkable options provide a means of transportation for children, people who cannot afford a vehicle, and the general public. Sidewalks provide an excellent way to easily travel short distances throughout town. Le Mars has many sidewalks throughout the community but some areas do not have any or have gaps. There are also important health benefits from walking. Walking is a form of active transportation. Walking gives people exercise while they move. A more active population has fewer instances of obesity and obesity related diseases.

B ICYCLING There are approximately 2.23 miles of bicycle lanes that exist in Le Mars. There are 9.6 miles of trails. The bike lanes can be found on 4th Avenue SE & NE and 8th Street SE & SW. Le Mars was recognized as an Honorable Mention Bicycle Friendly Community from the League of American Bicyclists in 2015. There is a Plymouth County Cyclist organization that is very active in the Le Mars area. This group does a variety of bicycling activities, such as group rides, riding lessons, and safety fairs. The City of Le Mars also owns a BMX track Bicycling is an excellent way to get around for those who cannot drive a car. The benefits of bicycling are numerous. Bicycling is an active form of transportation and help to improve the health of each person who bicycles. Installing bicycle lanes makes the street much safe for road users. Bicyclists are less likely to get in an accident when they are using on-street bicycle infrastructure. Also, bicycling is much more environmentally friendly than driving a vehicle, since bicycling does not create any greenhouse gas emissions. Bicycling also improves quality of life by providing a beneficial recreational amenity.

T RANSIT The City of Le Mars does not have its own public transit service. Le Mars is generally considered too small of a community to benefit from the addition of a traditional fixed-route transit service. However, the Siouxland Regional Transit System (SRTS) provides a paratransit service to the Le Mars area. Riders can call to set up a location and time to be picked up from home and dropped off at their destination. Rides should be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance. SRTS provides curb-to-curb and door-to-door pick up and drop off services.

R AIL Rail freight is critically important to moving freight and goods in the area. The existing railroad is owned by Canadian National Railway. The existing rail lines provide access to local industries. This allows industries to move their goods with ease. The rail lines that pass through Le Mars are a major way to attract industries to the area and help drive economic development. There is no commuter or passenger rail service available in Le Mars.

A IRPORT The airport is an important piece of transportation infrastructure for the le Mars Area. The airport is frequently used for business trips to and from Wells Enterprises, which has its world headquarters in Le Mars and is one of the largest employers in the area.

V EHICLES The majority of people in Le Mars travel by vehicle. Vehicles include typical passenger automobiles such as cars, trucks, and vans. The majority of Le Mars residents rely on vehicles to make their daily commute to work. Many of these commuters also drove alone rather than carpooling. This is the typical commuting trend of most American cities. Maintaining road infrastructure is important in order to prevent costly damages from being incurred on motor vehicles.

W ATERWAYS

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 70 C H A P T E R 6 : TRANSPORTATION The major waterway flowing through Le Mars is the Floyd River. The Floyd River does not carry any amount of trade, commerce, or commuters.

T RANSPORTATION C ONCEPTS C O M P L E T E S TREETS Some of the best street networks are the ones that take into account all modes of transportation. A complete street is a street that has been designed with all road users in mind. These streets typically have sidewalks, bike lanes, and vehicle lanes. This allows for the safe and effective travel of pedestrians, bicyclists, and vehicles. Infrastructure for all modes of travel increases safety for road users. A lack of sidewalks or crosswalks for pedestrians or a lack of bicycle lanes for bicyclists can make travel more dangerous. Also, not everyone is able to afford or operate a motor vehicle. Providing additional transportation options allows everyone to be equally able to move throughout the community.

C ONNECTIVITY Connectivity is an important part of any transportation system. Cul-de-sacs and gridiron road networks were both requested from the public during the public participation meeting for transportation. A grid layout of streets leads to improved connectivity and also makes the street layout friendlier to pedestrians and cyclists by decreasing the distance to destinations. The connectivity of a grid layout also can help to decrease emergency response times. Cul-de-sacs have less connectivity because they are dead ends that limit access to other nearby areas. This also contributes to cul-de-sac streets having less traffic and lower than average vehicle speeds compared to grid layouts.

Le Mars will work to create a street network that has major arterial streets every half mile. These arterial streets would carry a significant amount of the vehicle traffic throughout Le Mars. Also, the land use around these primary streets could have higher density than local streets.

F REIGHT Transportation moves much more than just people. The transportation network is critically important in moving freight to and from the area. The transport of freight is critically important for local industries. Having an effective way to move bulk amounts of product creates an appealing atmosphere for business and economic development.

S AFETY One of the largest concerns with transportation is moving people safely. Preventing crashes a top priority in transportation planning. Safety needs to be addressed for every mode of transportation. One way to improve safety is to improve the infrastructure for each mode of transportation. More sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian crossing signals can help to improve safety for pedestrians. The addition of bicycle lanes and other on-street bicycle infrastructure can make bicycling safer for road users. Reducing vehicle lane widths can reduce speeding by vehicles, which can lead to fewer and less severe crashes.

M O D E S HARE The following graphic represents the commuter mode share for journeys to work: Le Mars Mode Share7 Mode Number of Commuters Percent Pedestrian 126 2% Bicycle 24 1% Transit 6 0% Vehicle 4900 93% Other or work from home 203 4% Total 5259 100%

7 American Community Survey 5-year estimates, 2014.

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City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 72 C H A P T E R 6 : TRANSPORTATION F U T U R E T RANSPORTATION I MPROVEMENTS There are many ways to improve upon the existing transportation infrastructure in Le Mars. Many great suggestions were put forward by the public during the transportation public input meeting. A full list of the comments provided by the public can be found in Appendix A.

P EDESTRIAN The existing sidewalk network could be improved by a variety of means. Sidewalks could be added to the gaps in the network where there are currently no sidewalks. This would significantly improve pedestrian connectivity. Furthermore, additional curb cuts can be added to improve accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. This would involve adding a slope to the street from the sidewalk and adding ADA truncated dome pads at all intersections. Intersection crosswalks could be painted to clearly warn motorists to be aware of crossing pedestrians.

B ICYCLE Another improvement is the expansion of the bicycle network. This can include bicycle lanes, recreational trails, and bike racks. There is a very passionate group of people that have been advocating for more bicycle improvements in the area. There is also a proposed PlyWood trail that would connect Le Mars to the City of Sioux City. This proposal could dramatically expand the bicycle network and its connection to other local communities. The PlyWood Trail connection would also be a major source of tourism to bring outsiders into the Le Mars community. There is currently a PlyWood Trail Committee that is actively working to make the planned trail a reality. The group has members from various local stakeholder groups and is working on mapping, planning, and fundraising for the trail.

Le Mars could also attempt to become a Bronze Level Bicycle Friendly Community. This would be one step up from Le Mars’ current status, which is an Honorable Mention Bicycle Friendly Community. Several ways to help achieve this goal would be to increase percent of major streets with bicycle lanes or other infrastructure, increase local bicycle ridership, and create a bicycle plan and a group to implement it. A full report card on Le Mars’ Bicycle Friendly Community efforts was provided by the League of American Bicyclists in 2016. Other recommendations to improve Le Mars’ Bicycle Friendly Community status can be found in the report.

T RANSIT Le Mars should coordinate and communicate with SRTS in order to ensure that the best possible transit service is being provided to Le Mars area residents. A fixed route transit service is not expected to be necessary in Le Mars’ near future.

R AIL The City of Le Mars has a Rail Expansion Master Plan that was developed in November 2013. The plan makes many recommendations for improving the existing rail conditions and reducing congestion. These recommendations include extending rail sidetracks, adding an additional transload facility, and creating another main line connection south of the 2016 city limits. This plan supports these proposed projects as effective ways to address the current issues associated with the railroad.

The public participation during the comprehensive planning process showed an extensive amount of support for the implementation of a railroad quiet zone. Such a zone would help to reduce the negative noise impacts of the railroad on local residents. Le Mars could also take advantage of any opportunities to implement a passenger rail service in the area.

A IRPORT The City of Le Mars has an Airport Master Plan that was approved in May 2014. This plan projects an increase in the amount of air traffic and proposes solutions to help accommodate the additional demand. The proposals of the plan align with the feedback received form the public during the public input process.

The existing airport runway could be extended to accommodate more types of aircraft. A parallel taxiway would also be beneficial in improving the service that the airport can provide. Additional hangars, tie-down space, and aircraft parking would help to accommodate the projected growth in air traffic and based aircraft at the airport.

City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 73 C H A P T E R 6 : TRANSPORTATION V EHICLES Properly maintaining and fixing the road network should be a priority. This was the most frequently cited concern of the public. Roads that are in poor condition can cause damage to the vehicles of motorists using the local road network. Vehicle damage that can result from a poorly maintained road includes tire puncture, suspension damage, and wear on shocks. Furthermore, the road system carries the majority of traffic throughout Le Mars. Maintaining the road network will provide numerous benefits for the majority of road users.

One useful way to measure the condition of roads is with a Pavement Condition Index (PCI). The Pavement Condition Index (PCI) is a measure of pavement condition from 0-100. The PCI rates the amount of road surface distress and smoothness of the road surface. This data is collected from specialized vehicles that are equipped with scanners on the vehicle. These scanners measure the surface of the roads as the vehicle drive along it. The data from the scanners is put through a series of formulas which result in the PCI. The Siouxland Interstate Metropolitan Planning Council (SIMPCO) currently has PCI data for the Le Mars area. Le Mars should work with SIMPCO or a private data provider to acquire PCI data to plan for future street improvements.

Le Mars can embrace newer forms of vehicles and the benefits they can provide to local residents. Le Mars now allows golf carts and ATVs to be used throughout the City. This allows for more vehicle choice options for residents. Older residents may prefer to use a golf cart to travel through town. Being open to these other types of vehicles can help to create a more accommodating atmosphere for drivers of all ages.

W ATERWAYS In the future, the Floyd River could provide an opportunity for a recreational waterway. The Floyd River could be used by the public for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, or swimming. This could provide a new and exciting recreational amenity to the City of Le Mars.

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City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 75 C H A P T E R 6 : TRANSPORTATION G O A L S A N D O BJECTIVES The City of Le Mars will strive to achieve the following transportation goals and objectives:

G O A L T1 Maintain the existing transportation infrastructure in order to keep in excellent condition. o Objective T1.1: Properly maintain streets and roads to keep them free from potholes and cracks. o Objective T1.2: Ensure property owners are adequately maintaining their sidewalks. o Objective T1.3: Prioritize streets in a state of disrepair for new road improvements.

G O A L T2 Expand the existing bicycle network. o Objective T2.1: Expand the on-street network of bicycle lanes. o Objective T2.2: Expand the off-street network of recreational trails. o Objective T2.3: Provide more bicycle parking in public locations. o Objective T2.4: Become a Bronze level Bicycle Friendly Community.

G O A L T 3 Improve the pedestrian experience. o Objective T3.1: Fill the gaps in the sidewalk network. o Objective T3.2: Clearly mark pedestrian crossings. o Objective T3.3: Have pedestrian signals at all light controlled intersections. o Objective T3.4: Create walkable areas by adding more greenspace and other pedestrian amenities.

G O A L T 4 Implement the recommendations of the Rail Expansion Master Plan. o Objective T4.1: Extend rail sidetracks. o Objective T4.2: Add an additional transload facility. o Objective T4.3: Create another mainline connection south of Le Mars. o Objective T4.4: Implement a railroad quiet zone.

G O A L T 5 Improve the existing airport in accordance with the Airport Master Plan. o Objective T5.1: Implement a runway expansion or extension. o Objective T5.2: Improve and create more hangars and aircraft parking. o Objective T5.3: Create a parallel taxiway to the runway.

GOAL T6 Improve the safety of the transportation network. o Objective T6.1: Reduce the number of crashes. o Objective T6.2: Reduce the number of fatalities. o Objective T6.3: Reduce the number of serious injuries.

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C H A P T E R 7: C O M M U N I T Y F A C I L I T I E S A N D S ERVICES V I S I O N A N D G U I D I N G P RINCIPLES

Community Facilities and Services Vision: To maintain and improve existing community facilities and services and expand or renew facilities and services that supports a high quality of life in Le Mars.

L E M A R S C O M M U N I T Y F ACILITIES AND S E R V I C E S O P E N H O U S E S U M M A R Y On September 13, 2016 a public open house was hosted by the City to gather the community opinion and foundation for this Community Facilities and Services chapter. The full results of the open house are stated in Appendix A. At the open house, participants were asked questions about Community Facilities and Services. Please find below a summary of the main themes derived from the public comments under each topic.

Community facilities and services improvements or changes we would like to see . . .  Library improvements (update, expand, renovate, replace, longer hours)  Parks and Convention Center improvements (better maintained, better facilities, improve summer concerts)  Senior Center (update, add classes)  Pool (improve, build new)  Campground and recreational trail improvements (expand campground and trails, new restrooms)  Police station improvements (update, rebuild)  Playground improvements (good sight lines)  Other improvements (community garden, pet park, businesses, housing, public transportation, splash pad, discovery center, downtown, welcome signs, ADA accessibility)

New community facilities or services we would like to see . . .  New library  New City sponsored events (music, kids, art clubs)  New senior center with low entry housing  More staffing (facilitate volunteer activities, welcome center open more)  More trails (expand trail system, Plywood trail)  More medical doctors and EMS staff  Better public transportation, taxi service  Other new facilities (workout parks, makerspaces - gathering place to share resources and knowledge, work on projects, network, and build, police department, performing arts theater, outdoor pool/bath house, roller skating rink, miniature golf course, billboards promoting Le Mars

Goals for community facilities and services . . .  Library improvements (update, expand, renovate, replace, longer hours)  Better facility maintenance (parks, buildings, good appearance, upkeep, staffing)  Proactive planning (sustain plans and maintenance budget, better communication of city events)  Affordable facilities and services (also housing and workforce issue)  More trails (expand trail system, Plywood trail)  Senior center improvements  Police Department improvements  Funding (raise taxes to provide more services)  Other goals (zero carbon emissions, expanded airport runway, focus on tourism)

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES Existing Facilities and Services This Chapter includes information about Le Mars' existing community facilities and services. Goals and objectives for future improvements are found at the end of the chapter. Sub-sections within this chapter include the following:

1. Utilities: Water, Wastewater Treatment, Electricity, Natural Gas, Solid Waste Garbage, Fiber Optics 2. History and Culture: Museums, Historical Sites, Cultural Facilities and Attractions 3. Educational Services: Library, K-12 Schools, Higher Education 4. Food Systems and Agriculture 5. Health and Social Services: Social Services, Hospitals and Clinics, Wellness, Mental Health, Cemeteries 6. Government Buildings 7. Public Safety (Police, Fire Rescue, Ambulance, Disaster Preparedness, Hazard Mitigation) 8. Goals and Objectives In 1994, 2004, and 2014 Iowa State University conducted satisfaction surveys in Le Mars. Some of the results of the surveys are reported in the graph below including ratings of government services discussed in this Chapter and Plan. As stated in the Profile of Le Mars report, “In all three years, fire protection, emergency response services, condition of the parks, and police protection earned the highest scores. The condition of the streets received the lowest rating in 2014, but they are significantly improved over their assessment in 1994. The assessment of water services is considerably improved in 2014 and 2004 while the rating for the public schools has declined since 1994.”

Government Services Ratings (Percent 'Good' or 'Very Good')

Government Services 82 75 Overall 75

73 2014 Water* 45 72 2004

82 1994 Garbage Collection 89 84

84 Public Schools* 90 97

92 Police 81 87

96 Emergency Response 86 95

98 Fire Protection 93 99

68 Condition of Streets* 59 55

93 Condition of Parks 82 96 *Over 13% margin of error. Source: Profile of Le Mars 1994-2014 by Iowa State University

U t i l i t i e s Decisions concerning the installation of public utilities greatly influence and are influenced by the direction and intensity

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES of a community's growth. All development requires adequate utilities, whether they are publicly or privately owned. Lack of planning for these utility extensions can result in poorly located, less efficient and more expensive systems.

It is important that during the comprehensive planning process, government officials and residents agree on future growth areas for each category of land (e.g., residential, commercial, industrial). Once decisions have been made concerning future growth areas, plans can be drawn up for phased improvements to the existing utility systems and development can be restricted to areas along new or proposed utility lines in an orderly and efficient manner. Thus growth can be anticipated and the provision of facilities can be planned.

W A T E R S Y S T E M The municipal water system in Le Mars is supplied by six wells at an average depth of 370 feet. After the water is pumped from the ground, it is treated with ortho and poly blended phosphates to help with iron and manage corrosion control. The water is then aerated and chlorine is added for disinfection. All of the water is pumped from the Dakota Aquifer. Over the past few years there have been many improvements to the city’s water system.

Three factors govern the design of a community's water system including: Capacity needed to meet the maximum daily water consumption for residential, commercial and industrial uses; the capacity and pressure necessary for fire protection; and the public health drinking water standards. Public health drinking water standards, compatible with the national Safe Drinking Water Act, as amended, are the basis for all state standards applied to Iowa's cities. These standards specify maximum limits for coliform bacteria and for certain contaminants. Concentrations in excess of these limits are not allowed. In addition, certain minerals not affecting the safety of the water for human consumption affect its potability and its practical domestic applications. Iron and manganese are two problem minerals in the Dakota Aquifer.

*The City of Le Mars developed and distributed a 2015 Water Quality Report that concluded there are no water quality violations. For more information or a copy of the report contact the Le Mars Water Department at 712-546-5555.

Source: US Environmental Protection Agency

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES Water Department The City of Le Mars Water Department operates the water system which consists of the following: Over 80 miles of underground water main, 4286 meters, 635 fire hydrants, over 1100 main line valves, 2 one million gallon elevated water tanks, one 1.5 million gallon underground storage tank, over 1 million gallons in the distribution system, a 6 MGD Filtration Plant, one high service pump station with a total of 4 pumps, 1 booster pump station with 3 pumps run in alteration, and 6 Dakota aquifer wells. The water treatment plant was put in service in August of 2005. In December of 2014 the City added a new booster station next to the new water tower. The City’s newest water tower is a 1 million gallon hydro pillar put into service in February of 2016. The map below shows condition and size of water pipes. The water condition designation is based on: Age, personal observation, and maintenance (water leaks, hydrants).

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES Water Pump Comparison The following data was gathered from the Le Mars Water Department Annual Reports. The following table and graphs compare two water statistics including: Total water pumped from the 6 wells, and average daily water pumped for 2009, 2011, and 2015. Le Mars Water Department data reveals that the amount (gallons) of water pumped and average daily water use has decreased from 2011 to 2015.

Le Mars Water Pump 2009 2011 2015 Comparison (Gallons) Total water pumped from 1,009,766,500 1,058,228,000 980,346,000 the 6 wells for the year Average daily water 2,587,750 2,743,667 2,600,583 pumped

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES W A S T E W A T E R T REATMENT The City of Le Mars’ original sanitary sewer or water treatment facility was built in 1958. The city's wastewater system consists of sanitary sewer and storm sewer lines, lift stations and a wastewater treatment facility that has grown to be one of the largest treatment facilities in the state. The entire collection system was televised by 2000. The map below shows condition and size of the pipes. Condition designation is based on video survey and manhole inspections.

The Wastewater Treatment Facility is located just northwest of the City of Le Mars. The primary function of the facility is to clean the used water from our residents and industries before it is returned to the rivers. The City of Le Mars has more than 50 miles of sanitary sewer lines and over 11 miles of storm sewer lines in the City of Le Mars. The city's sanitary sewer collection system consists of vitrified clay sewer lines with eight lift stations located in low areas that flow to gravity lines. The storm water system is composed mainly of reinforced concrete, but there are some clay as well as polyethylene sewers throughout the city.

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES E LECTRICITY There are 3 companies in Le Mars that offer electric service including: MidAmerican Energy, Northwest Iowa Power Cooperative (NIPCO) and Northwest REC (Rural Electric Cooperative). Northwest REC was formed in 1935 under the Rural Electrification Administration and is affiliated with Northwest Iowa Power Cooperative (NIPCO). (2016 Northwest REC www.nwrec.com)

Northwest Iowa Power Cooperative (NIPCO) is a generation and transmission electric cooperative supplying wholesale electric power to 7 distribution cooperatives covering 6,500 square miles in western Iowa. Incorporated in 1949 and headquartered in Le Mars, Iowa, NIPCO is a Touchstone Energy® electric cooperative and a member of Basin Electric Power Cooperative. About 20 percent of NIPCO’s power comes from the dams along the Missouri River. The remainder of the power is produced by clean, low-cost thermal generation augmented by a growing portion of wind generation. Basin Electric Power Cooperative, headquartered in Bismarck, N.D., provides that power. (October 2016 Northwest Iowa Power Cooperative at www.nipco.coop)

MidAmerican Energy provides retail electric service to residential homes, commercial businesses, and industrial businesses in Le Mars. MidAmerican is based in Des Moines with a service office in Sioux City. The company is committed to customer service and strives to provide energy savings, electric safety, and protection from power outages. MidAmerican Energy generates and transmits electricity to Le Mars through substations and overhead and underground distribution lines.

R E N E W A B L E E NERGY MidAmerican Energy began investing in renewable energy in 2004, and has developed wind energy infrastructure, researched solar energy and offers assistance with electric vehicle station installation. The company’s vision is to someday provide 100% renewable energy to customers. In 2004, 70% of MidAmerican generation capacity came from coal and 0% from wind. At year-end 2015, 41% of MidAmerican generation capacity came from wind and 37% came from coal. MidAmerican Energy is also researching solar production and recently filed changes to its private solar generation tariff in regard to excess electricity produced and incorporated into the power grid. MidAmerican Energy offers assistance and consultation in electric vehicle station installation for homes and businesses. (October 2016 MidAmerican Energy at www.midamericanenergy.com)

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES N A T U R A L G A S Le Mars' natural gas transmission is provided by Northern Natural Gas based in Omaha, NE. Northern was founded in 1930 and is a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Energy. Northern owns and operates the largest interstate natural gas pipeline system in the United States. Northern's pipeline system stretches across 11 states, from the Permian Basin in Texas to Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Northern's pipeline consists of a vast network of transmission facilities that connect to gathering systems in major production basins depicted below. (October 2016 Northern Natural Gas at www.northernnaturalgas.com) MidAmerican Energy Company is affiliated with Northern Natural Gas and distributes natural gas in Le Mars.

Pictured right: Northern Natural Gas pipeline system.

I N T E R N E T F I B E R O PTICS The City is not directly involved in ownership of fiber optics and City buildings are currently serviced by Premier Communications. Premier Communications’ fiber optic, high-speed internet, network is prevalent in Northwest Iowa (See network map). Other internet providers to Le Mars residents and businesses include: Frontier Communications, HughesNet, Westel Communications, and Dish. In the future the City may consider free Wi-Fi (wireless fiber optic) for residents and businesses to connect to the internet City-wide.

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES S O L I D W A S T E (GA R B A G E A N D R ECYCLING ) The city disposes of its solid waste in the Plymouth County Solid Waste Landfill. The Landfill is expected to remain useful for another forty to fifty years. Le Mars is very active in recycling and mandates that residents recycle. Van's Sanitation is the contracted party that collects trash and recycling throughout the city. The City collects twigs, branches, and grass clippings at the drop-off site behind the Riverview Ball Complex. Yard Waste pick-up is also available through Van’s Sanitation. A Recycling & Solid Waste Services Brochure is available at City Hall or on the City’s website at: http://www.lemarsiowa.com/327/Waste-Recycling.

Recycling The City of Le Mars enforces a rigorous recycling program. Items such as plastics, newspapers, tin cans and cardboard can be placed in the Blue totes for recycling. All of the recyclable items are taken to the county landfill where they are transferred to a recycling center. Van’s Sanitation operates the recycling facility in Le Mars and processes single-stream recycling for Plymouth and Cherokee Counties. The City of Le Mars provides recycling totes to all residential properties recycling blue bags can be purchased at any of the local grocery stores. Recycling is mandatory for all residential and commercial customers. The City urges residential and commercial customers to contact City Hall to receive a blue recycle tote.

Annual Recycled Material Since the City’s recycling program began in 2005 the amount of recycled materials has grown. The graph below illustrates the pounds of recycled material collected from Le Mars since 2005. In its first year 174,550 pounds of recycled materials were removed from the land fill and instead re-used. In ten years from the recycling programs start the amount of recycled material has grown from 174,550 pounds to 2,003,380 pounds. The amount of recycled material has grown more than ten times the amount in the programs first year, ten years ago. (City of Le Mars December 2015 Recycling Report)

Build With Bags Program In May, 2010, the City of Le Mars received a grant of $1,800 from the Build With Bags Program funded by the Iowa Grocery Industry Association. This program grants money to those communities that are extremely active in recycling programs. The money was used for the purchase of 4 handicap accessible Municipal Park Shelter picnic tables made from recycled plastic bags and other recycled plastics.

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES C U L T U R A L F ACILITIES AND A TTRACTIONS The culture of Le Mars can be experienced through its rich history, landscape, attractions, services, clubs, organizations, programs and events. The following facilities and attractions make Le Mars a cultural center for the region.

Le Mars Arts Center The Le Mars Arts Center in downtown Le Mars is operated by the Le Mars Arts Council, a Non-Profit 501(c)3 organization. Le Mars Arts Center is headquartered in the former Carnegie Library built in 1903. The Center facilitates a weekly Art Club for 4th and 5th graders, art workshops and art exhibits. Le Mars Arts Center features two art galleries, children's activity area, space for performances/receptions, handicapped accessible bathroom, kitchens, art room, meeting/event room, pottery area.

Le Mars Community Theatre - Postal Playhouse The Le Mars Community Theatre (LCT) is housed in the Postal Playhouse established in 1968 in downtown Le Mars. Le Mars Community Theatre is organized by the eighteen member Board of Directors. LCT seasons typically include four productions with occasional special shows. Shows typically run for seven performances over two weekends. Musicals usually get an additional performance. Seasonal memberships, tickets, and newsletter subscriptions are available by contacting the theater. (Online at: lemarscommtheatre.org November 2016)

Blue Bunny Visitor's Center Wells Blue Bunny is a landmark business in Le Mars that can be experienced at the Blue Bunny Visitor’s Center and Parlor in Downtown Le Mars. At the ice-cream parlor visitors can enjoy a Blue Bunny ice-cream treat or an old-fashioned ice cream soda. The parlor features a marble ice cream bar, forty flavors of ice cream, historic memorabilia, gift shop, and inviting indoor and outdoor spaces.

Olson Cultural Events Center The City of Le Mars is known for its extensive cultural events held in the Olson Cultural Events Center in downtown Le Mars. The Le Mars Area Chamber of Commerce hosts many events at this center which features a covered stage and a sound system. The Center has held events such as:

 Le Mars municipal band concerts  Le Mars Farmers Market  Grill ‘n’ Chill Rib Rally  Kid Kar Racing  Madonarri Chalk Art Festival  Simulated Hunting Video Experiences  Square Dancing  The Summer Outdoor Movie Series

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES Alley Art Downtown Le Mars features beautiful paintings and historic murals located throughout the alleys. Alley Art is a public art project coordinated by the Le Mars Area Chamber of Commerce, Le Mars Arts Center, and City of Le Mars. The program was developed to stimulate tourism, create a more lively and sustainable Downtown and to showcase artistic talent and culture of the Midwest.

Le Mars Convention Center The Le Mars Convention Center was recently remodeled and provides space for large events. The Center is perfect for any size party, meeting or event, including: Bridal showers, Conventions, Family reunions, Prenuptials, Receptions and dances, Weddings. The Center features: AV Equipment, chairs, full bar service, internet, meeting rooms, parking, portable staging, restrooms, tables, and Rental equipment: Audio-visual cart, PA system, projector, pub tables, screen. The capacity of each room is as follows: Board Room - Seats 75, Upper Level - Seats over 477, Lower Level - Seats 450.

Browns Theater In 2015, the Browns opened the Browns Century Theater at the corner of Plymouth Street and Central Avenue. The family also purchased the former Hi-Lite building across the street and plan to develop the Century Event Center.

Plymouth County Historical Museum Le Mars is home to the Plymouth County Historical Museum housed in the former Le Mars school building ‘Old Central’. The museum features five floors of historic exhibits including: Old Central Gym and lobby, heritage house, mini market, religious heritage room, airplane room, military room, miller’s lunch counter, kid’s cabin, study hall, Loess hills wildlife exhibit, Maggie the milk cow, restored tractors, the barnyard, and train room. The museum is also home to: Northwest Iowa Genealogy Society, Le Mars Community School District Alumni Association, and Westmar Alumni & Friends Association. Visitors can enjoy the museum for free (donations appreciated) from Tuesday-Sunday 1:00-5:00 or by appointment (closed holidays).

Plymouth County Fair Grounds The Plymouth County Fair Grounds is home to the annual Plymouth County Fair and other seasonal recreational events. The fairgrounds are located east of Downtown Le Mars near Willow Creek. In 2016, the fairgrounds held the 75th annual Plymouth County Fair celebration. Several community partners are involved in the organization of the fair including: The Fair Board, Iowa State University Extension, and Plymouth County 4-H Program. Example events held at the fairgrounds include: Indoor and outdoor vendors, stage entertainment, figure 8 races, demo derby, horse shows, and tractor pull.

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES E DUCATIONAL S E R V I C E S L E M A R S L I B R A R Y H ISTORY In 1875 pioneer citizens established a library in the City of Le Mars for anyone wishing to contribute (minimum $2.00). The Le Mars public library has been tax supported since 1885 when it was donated to the City. The library has moved between various downtown offices since its inception. In 1903 through the efforts of the Le Mars PEO chapter and other interested citizens, funds were secured from industrialist-financier Andrew Carnegie to construct a library building. The library was housed in the Carnegie building until 1976 when the library was relocated to a renovated grocery store. The library remains at that location today serving residents of Le Mars and the surrounding area.

L I B R A R Y O PERATION The Le Mars Public Library is a Tier three library, accredited by the State Library of Iowa and is open fifty-seven hours a week, Monday-Saturday. The library employs eight staff members, including part-time and full-time employees, and is governed by a seven member board of trustees. In 2015, the library recorded 79,489 visitors. The library annual budget is approximately $400,000. The city provides 90% of the funding, state sources provide 1.5% and fees, fines, grants & donations provide the balance of funding. The library offers more than forty thousand (40,000) items in its collection detailed below. Beyond its extensive collection, the library provides reading programs for toddlers through adult, outreach services to child care centers and a robust summer reading program. In 2015, the library had 48 different volunteers that provided 340 hours of volunteer time. Approximately 3,695 unique card holders used the library in the past 3 years (Le Mars card holders 2013-15) and 1,565 Non-Resident unique card holders have used the library in the past 3 years (2013-15).

L I B R A R Y C OLLECTION  Six (6) online education resources including:  Over 34,000 print books (Board, picture, New language, research, job skills and literacy research and best seller)  Downloadable audiobooks for smart phone or  Over 2,000 large print books other mobile device  Music CD collection (1,343)  Online magazine collection, Zinio  DVD collection (2,111)  AudioBooks on CD (1,165 adult & juvenile) L I B R A R Y S ERVICES  Six (6) Daily newspapers ( Des Moines Register,  Over 400 programs to children each year USA Today, Wall Street Journal, Omaha World including summer reading program Herald, Sioux City Journal & Le Mars Daily  Programs for adults including mobile device Sentinel ) training, special speakers and book clubs  Ninety-six (96) periodical subscriptions  A community meeting room (Newspapers, Magazines & Archive/history)  Internet access with 14 computers (5,800 uses  Historic newspapers on microfilm and an last year) Free Wi-Fi (Used over 1,000 times in electronic microfilm reader-scanner 2015)  Census records on microfilm  Proctor tests for distance education classes  Cemetery records  Access to other library collections through Iowa  Family & church history books statewide online system  Over 20,000 eBooks via the state-wide Bridges  Service to homebound residents and delivery to consortia, local demand, and Park Place Assisted Living

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES K - 12 S C H O O L S The Le Mars Community School District, along with Gehlen Catholic Schools, has made a commitment to provide quality education opportunities to attract young families to Le Mars. Both score consistently higher than the national and state averages on the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills I Iowa Tests of Educational Development. Both the public school district and Gehlen Catholic Schools excel in the areas of athletics and fine arts and have numerous co-curricular offerings. This is evident by the high number of students in grades 7 – 12 who are able to participate in at least one co-curricular activity each year. In other parts of the state, low academic performances and large class sizes prohibit students from these opportunities.

Le Mars Community School District The Le Mars Community School District provides primary and secondary education. The City of Le Mars is home to five school buildings including: Clark Elementary, Franklin Elementary, Kluckhohn Elementary, Le Mars Middle School, and Le Mars High School. Le Mars schools are actively working to bridge the gap between secondary and higher education with programs such as career pathways and career academies.

Le Mars District Facilities The physical capacities of the elementary schools have reached their limits. A large influx of elementary students would create the need for the construction of an additional school. The middle school has room for expansion, if needed. The buildings are fairly dated, but they have experienced many expansions over the years. Recent improvements throughout the school district include classroom additions added to each elementary school; the Le Mars High School has been improved with an Iowa Communication Network (ICN) room, four classrooms, a wrestling room, a weight room and an indoor walking/running track. Le Mars High School Gehlen Catholic Schools The City of Le Mars is home to the Gehlen Catholic School. Catholic education and the Catholic Church in Le Mars were founded over 125 years ago by Peter Gehlen. Gehlen Catholic, formerly St. Joseph Catholic School, continues to provide a quality education founded upon Mr. Gehlen’s founding principles of faith, values, service and academic excellence. The school is open to students of all denominations. It is proud of its 12:1 teacher / student ratio, the religious services, and numerous academic and co-curricular opportunities.

Safe Routes to School (SRTS) SRTS is a national effort to increase safety and promote walking and bicycling to school through the “6Es: engineering, education, enforcement, encouragement, evaluation, and equity.” The Iowa Safe Routes to School program is one of the most important programs a school can develop for its community. Our non-infrastructure program provides ways for children to get more physical activity thus generating better health, increased safety for children, less traffic, and a greater sense of community. The mission of the Iowa Safe Routes to School program is to increase the number of children walking and biking to school. (Iowa Safe Routes to School iowasaferoutes.org)

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES Le Mars District Annual Enrollment Comparison Le Mars School District PK-12 enrollments has remained relatively stable since 1980. Annual Superintendent’s report data was utilized to develop the following enrollment comparison table and graph. The comparison shows changes in enrollments in 5-year increments from 1980 - 2015. The statistics reveal that Pre-kindergarten to grade 12 enrollments slightly declined in the past 5 years from 2129 to 2122.

H I G H E R A N D C O N T I N U I N G E DUCATION Western Iowa Tech Community College is housed in the former Westmar Campus South Academic Center along with a satellite office for Buena Vista University. Le Mars is in close proximity to several higher education institutions including: Dordt College in Sioux Center; Northwestern College in Orange City; three institutions in Sioux City - Western Iowa Tech Community College, Briar Cliff University and Morningside College. The University of South Dakota in Vermillion is forty miles west of Le Mars.

 Buena Vista University (BVU) Le Mars Center - upper division undergraduate program  Western Iowa Tech Community College - college credit and continuing education courses  Life Skills Training Center, Inc. (LSTC) - agency offering training and education for people with disabilities  Le Mars Beauty College - full course for art of hairdressing and cosmetology  Online Schools – Iowa Guide to online schools www.guidetoonlineschools.com/states#iowa

F O O D S YSTEMS AND A GRICULTURE The City of Le Mars provides information about the Regional Food Systems Working Group. The Regional Food System Working Group of Iowa maximizes the potential for community-based, economically sustainable, and environmentally and socially responsible food enterprises by supporting education, conducting research, and facilitating partnerships.

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES H E A L T H A N D S O C I A L S E R V I C E S S O C I A L S E R V I C E S A GENCIES AND P R O G R A M S Mid-Sioux Opportunity The City of Le Mars participates in the Mid-Sioux Opportunity, Inc. Mid-Sioux Opportunity is a not-for-profit Community Action Agency established in 1965 to fight poverty at a local level by assisting low-income families in Northwest Iowa to become self-sufficient. Mid-Sioux Opportunity’s mission is "Helping People. Changing Lives." Mid-Sioux services and programs in the following categories:

1. Children & Families (Child & Adult Care Food Program, Child Care Resource and Referral Program, Head Start, Healthy Child Care Iowa, Iowa Program for Infant Toddler Caregiving, Quality Rewards for Infant Care, and Family Development and Self-Sufficiency) 2. Community Service (Outreach Services, Emergency Food Pantries, and Food for Life) 3. Energy Services (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program and Weatherization information) 4. Health and Nutrition (Women, Infant, Children program, Maternal & Child Health Program, hawk-I child medical care program, and I-Smile)

Plymouth County Plymouth County Department of Human Service is located at 215 Central Ave, S.E. Orange City, IA. The department offers programs and services to Le Mars residents. Programs and services are offered in the following categories:

1. Assistance Programs (Cash Assistance, Child Care Assistance, Food Assistance, Job Training, Refugee Services) 2. Child Welfare (Adoption, Foster Care, and Better Results for Kids) 3. Safety and Protection (Reporting Abuse, Safe Haven for Newborns, Department of Human Services Facilities, Community Partnerships for Protecting Children) 4. Health (Medical Insurance Programs, Long Term Care Services, Mental Health & Disability Services, Find a Medicaid Provider, Preferred Drug List, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)

H OSPITALS AND C LINICS Floyd Valley Health Care, a progressive, modern facility, operates in Le Mars. An addition was recently completed and future plans include more expansion and continual upgrades. The hospital provides twelve full-time physicians as well as a courtesy staff of fifty-nine physicians. Health care services offered include surgical practices, cardiology, otolaryngology, orthopedics, ophthalmology, obstetrics and urology. There are a number of other health services located in the neighboring communities of Marcus, Remsen, Akron, Kingsley and Sioux City, and air life flight services are available for critical care.

The Floyd Valley Health Care provides additional services that benefit the community including: In-home nursing, homemaker health aide services, Lifeline units (emergency response alert system) and Meals-On-Wheels. The Prime Time Health Network offers monthly education advice, frequent physical activities for local seniors and the AgriSafe Program which offers farm safety tips for the agriculture community. Avera Health Home Medical Equipment offers home medical equipment and services to the City of Le Mars and Plymouth County. The Lifeskills Training Center offers training employment opportunities to handicapped citizens.

C O M M U N I T Y W E L L N E S S C ENTER

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES The Community Wellness Center (CWC) features a free-weight room, a Nautilus® room, a cardio room, a racquetball court, a game room, a gymnasium with basketball I volleyball courts, a stretching room, locker rooms with showers, a wrestling room, a dance studio, offices and two tennis courts. Renovation and an addition are planned to the CWC du ring the winter of 2005 with the demolition of the auxiliary gymnasium. Included in the expansion plans are a four-lane indoor pool, a therapeutic pool, a sauna, a whirlpool and an indoor walking track.

S E N I O R F ACILITIES To help accommodate the senior population there are several assisted living centers and nursing homes in Le Mars. Sunrise Villa Apartments consists of twenty-four units and Prime Living Apartments offers twenty-seven units. Floyd Valley Health Care owns and operates Park Place Estates Assisted Living Center. The assisted living center is a thirty-unit facility that operates with 100 percent occupancy rate. The Abbey of Le Mars offers fifty-two residential beds and fifty- two nursing facility beds (ten are skilled care).

Brentwood Good Samaritan Center serves sixty-five nursing home residents. The Brentwood senior center addition, completed in 2005, includes: Alzheimer's disease and other dementia related special care center, an outpatient rehabilitation center and a senior wellness center. Plymouth Life Inc. is an independent living community located in Le Mars that includes home ownership in a retirement community or senior apartment rentals for individuals who can still live independently.

N ON- G O V E R N M E N T C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E S R ATINGS Non-Government Community Service In 1994, 2004, and 2014 Iowa State University Ratings (Percent 'Good' or 'Very Good') conducted satisfaction surveys in Le Mars. 73 Some of the results of the surveys are reported Community Services Overall 63 in the graph below including ratings of 82 77 government services discussed in this Chapter Medical Services 71 and Plan. As stated in the Profile of Le Mars 75 report, “Non-governmental community services 48 Senior Citizen Programs* 67 in Le Mars received lower ratings as a group 68 compared to the residents’ assessment of local 74 Programs for Youth* 59 government services. The only service with a 53 2014 drop in positive ratings in 2014 is senior citizens’ 70 2004 Child Care Services* 63 programs.” (Profile of Le Mars 1994-2014 Iowa 49 1994 State University) 65 Adequate Housing* 56 39

67 Jobs* 51 83 43 Shopping Facilities 35 54

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES M E N T A L H E A L T H A N D A DDICTION Plains Area Mental Health has offices throughout Northwest Iowa including Le Mars. The mission of Plains Area Mental Health is “To provide affordable quality mental health services to the people of the communities we serve, respecting each individual’s dignity, worth, and potential for growth. Insuring an environment of confidentiality and dedication – we put our people first.” (plainsareamentalhealth.org November 2016)

Pride Group (Formerly Plymouth Life) is a private, not-for-profit corporation located in Le Mars. The Pride Group provides residential and community based services to adults in Plymouth, Cherokee, O'Brien, and Dickinson counties in Iowa. The corporation was established in July l986 to serve persons with disabilities. Pride Group’s mission is “To help the individuals they serve to achieve an excellent quality of life within a community setting. This excellent quality of life includes: Providing residential services in the most independent setting possible for each individual within the community; Designing programs that will address the specific needs of each individual; and recognizing the importance of encouraging interdependent relationships with people within the community setting.” (thepridegroup.org November 2016)

Jackson Recovery Centers offers an array of outpatient addiction treatment and has a satellite office in Le Mars. Jackson Recovery’s vision and mission is, “To create a recovery-centered Siouxland and to save lives by promoting recovery and providing programmatic excellence.” The center provides prevention, education, intervention, and comprehensive treatment services for adults, adolescents, children and families suffering from addiction and/or co-occurring disorders. (www.jacksonrecovery.com November 2016)

Other mental health facilities include Plymouth County and Cherokee Mental Health Institute. Plymouth County Department of Human Service is located at 215 Central Ave, S.E. Orange City, IA. The department offers programs and services to Le Mars residents including mental health disability services. Cherokee Mental Health Institute is the State Psychiatric Hospital for all ages. The Cherokee Institute serves people with serious mental illness, persons with mental health and substance abuse disorders, persons with post-traumatic stress disorder, veterans, persons with traumatic brain injury, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgendered clients.

C EMETERIES Currently there are three cemeteries located in Le Mars. The city owns and maintains two of the three and the city recently purchased land adjoining the Le Mars Memorial Cemetery for a possible expansion. The third cemetery is a Catholic cemetery owned and maintained by a private group. Cemeteries are community resources that provide community history. Iowa Public Health encourages communities to utilize cemeteries to increase walking and socialization by providing cemetery tours (research famous and influential ancestors and educate tour attendees).

G O V E R N M E N T B UILDINGS L E M A R S C ITY H ALL City Hall is located in the heart of downtown Le Mars. The building houses several City offices, Council Chambers, and meeting rooms. The facility has undergone improvements throughout the years and provides workspace and meeting room for public events, City Council, Boards, Commissions and staff.

P L Y M O U T H C O U N T Y C OURTHOUSE The City of Le Mars is home to the Plymouth County Courthouse building constructed in 1891. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1981 as a part of the County Courthouses in Iowa Thematic Resource. Several Plymouth County departments and offices are housed in the historic courthouse building.

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES P U B L I C S A F E T Y P OLICE City of Le Mars has a police department consisting of fourteen full• time officers and two support staff members. The city's police department patrols the streets of Le Mars twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year. In addition to patrolling the streets the department takes part in the Special Response Team in conjunction with the Plymouth County and Sioux County Sheriff’s Offices, and is a member of the Northwest Iowa Drug Task Force Team. The police department provides a number of programs adding to the overall protection of the city. Programs and services offered by the Police Department are listed below. The Le Mars Police Department enforces several sections of the Le Mars City Code.

Le Mars Police Services and Programs o Accident reconstruction and technical investigations o Automated defibrillators in patrol vehicles o Ranger patrol operations o Computer crime investigations o Crime prevention o Domestic abuse investigations o Drug and patrol canine o Drunk/drugged driver investigation o Gang investigations o Intelligence investigations (L.E.I.N.) o Narcotics investigation/drug task force o Safety programs for schools o Sex crimes investigations o Special response team

Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) – The Mission of D.A.R.E. Iowa is “to improve the quality of life for the youth of the state by assisting them to avoid harmful choices through developing and coordinating the resources and training necessary to permit local D.A.R.E. Officers, schools, and communities to effectively provide D.A.R.E. instruction to the young people of the Iowa.”

Safe Meds – Police help households in Le Mars safely dispose of prescription drugs.

Transaction Safe Zone – Online account purchases can be transacted in front of the police station.

National Night Out – Takes place the first Tuesday in August every year. Purpose: Promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. The Le Mars Police Department would like to invite residents to host a block party in their neighborhood each year. These block parties are an excellent opportunity for residents of the neighborhood to meet and get to know each other. natw.org

Project Child Safe – Educating and promoting firearms safety through the distribution of safety education messages. The brochure (also available in Spanish) discusses safe handling and secure storage guidelines to help deter access by unauthorized individuals.

Contact Emergency: 911 Non-emergency Police: 712-546-4113. Phone in the lobby of the police station that rings directly to a dispatcher. Plymouth County Sheriff's Office: 712-546-8191. Plymouth County Crime Stoppers (Report crimes): 712-548-4968

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES F I R E R E S C U E Le Mars is served by a combination Fire-Rescue Department which currently has 30 members. The Department consists of a full-time Fire Chief and Assistant Fire Chief, and twenty-eight paid, on call members. The Fire-Rescue Department is funded by a combination of township fire fees, City taxes, and fund drive donations.

The Fire-Rescue Department provides coverage and protection to 8 miles of City Limits and approximately 200 square miles of rural territory including all or partial areas of seven townships and four other small communities or villages. The Department provides mutual aid assistance to other fire departments in the area when needed. Each year the Fire-Rescue Department answers approximately 500 calls for service. The Department operates several specialty rescue services as well. There are two fire stations in the City of Le Mars: one downtown on the north end of the City and one on the south end of the City. Fire-Rescue is referenced in Chapter 36 of the Le Mars City Code.

*Open burning is prohibited by city ordinance except recreational fire pits that meet the City rules.

A MBULANCE Le Mars is served by an ambulance service that has been existence for thirty-five years. The ambulance service is sponsored by the city, and the crew works closely with Floyd Valley Health Care, Le Mars Fire and Rescue and the Le Mars Police Department. The city participates in the Enhanced 911 system through the Plymouth County Communications Center. The members of the Le Mars Ambulance service take pride in caring for the sick and injured people of Le Mars. The Ambulance Service is regulated by Chapter 37 of Le Mars City Code.

The Le Mars Ambulance Department operates 2 ambulances and has 2 full-time employees and several part-time staff. The Ambulance Service has been rated a provisional paramedic level ambulance service since 1999. The crew presently consists of thirteen members certified at the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) level, one at the advanced EMT level, three at the paramedic level, and nine Registered Nurses (RN). The annual ambulance service response calls are illustrated in the graph below.

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES D I S A S T E R P REPAREDNESS The Disaster Preparedness Plan provides a system of coordination and communication between the various political subdivisions in Plymouth County. In the event an actual disaster occurs within the city limits of Le Mars, the City of Le Mars Disaster Preparedness Plan will be the primary plan implemented. The Plymouth County Emergency Operation's staff will be called in if it is deemed necessary by the City of Le Mars Coordinator of Disaster Services. This plan is reviewed and updated, as needed.

H A Z A R D M ITIGATION In 2014 Le Mars was a participating community in the Plymouth County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan. Several cities, school districts, and regional and state agencies participated in the plan’s development. The Plan was approved by Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in 2014. The purpose of the plan is to demonstrate the communities’ commitments to reducing risks from hazards, serves as a tool to help decision makers direct mitigation activities and resources, and to make Plymouth County and participating jurisdictions eligible for certain federal grant programs. Hazards that are addressed relative to Le Mars include: Animal/plant/crop, drought, expansive soils, extreme heat, flash flood, fire: urban and wild land, hail storm, river flooding, thunderstorm (hail, lightning, heavy rain), tornado/high winds, sinkholes, and winter storm (snow, ice, extreme cold).

G OALS , O BJECTIVES , A N D A CTIONS The following goals and objectives were drafted based on existing documents and current research. Sources that were reviewed and used to draft the following the goals and objectives include: 2016 Le Mars Comprehensive Plan open house summary, 2005 Le Mars Comprehensive Plan, 2014 Plymouth County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan and information compiled and discussed in this chapter.

G OAL : C F S 1 W ATER , W A S T E W ATER , S T O R M W ATER Provide high quality water, wastewater, and storm water utility services in a cost-effective manner throughout the city.

Objective CFS 1.1: Maintain and improve water, wastewater, and storm water utilities as required to meet or exceed standards Objective CFS 1.2: Monitor and report maintenance and improvements associated with the City’s water utilities Objective CFS 1.3: Develop a storm sewer system to meet the city's needs. Objective CFS 1.4: Continue to budget maintenance funds to rehabilitate lines and eliminate sources of inflow from the sewage collection system. Objective CFS 1.5: Compare and consult the annual Water Department report for relevant statistics, goals and objectives. Objective CFS 1.6: Practice Proactive planning (sustain plans and maintenance budget) Objective CFS 1.7: Where appropriate, require storm sewer in all new development. Undertake a storm sewer installation program in conjunction with Iowa Department of Natural Resources requirements. Objective CFS 1.8: Encourage the preservation of viable existing infrastructure (water distribution, sanitary sewer, storm sewer collection and transportation); promote compact and incremental growth and development to encourage the economical extensions of the existing infrastructure.

G OAL : C F S 2 E X T E R N A L U T I L I T I E S (ELECTRIC , N A T U R A L G AS, F IBER ) Maintain and Improve partnerships with external utilities to facilitate a high quality of life for residents

Objective CFS 2.1: Research and develop partnerships with external utility companies that provide energy to Le Mars residents and businesses. Objective CFS 2.2: Research fiber optic services and internet service in Le Mars and propose improvements as needed Objective CFS 2.3: Work with utilities, companies and residents to reduce carbon emissions Objective CRS 2.4: Consider City-wide Wi-Fi for residents and businesses to connect to the internet

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES G OAL : C F S 3 S O L I D W A S T E (GARBAGE AND R ECYCLING ) Maintain and improve solid waste removal in Le Mars

Objective CFS 3.1: Continue to provide and mandate recycling in Le Mars. Objective CFS 3.2: Continue to monitor and report recycling and garbage statistics. Objective CFS 3.3: Plan for future use of the landfill. Objective CFS 3.4: Continue to educate residents and businesses and report special programs such as build with bags.

G OAL : C F S 4 H ISTO R Y A N D C ULTURE Preserve, enhance, and expand the history of Le Mars and Cultural Facilities and Attractions.

Objective CFS 4.1: Preserve and enhance the following historic or cultural facilities and attractions:

1. Le Mars Arts Center 2. Le Mars Community Theatre - Postal Playhouse 3. Blue Bunny Visitor's Center 4. Olson Cultural Events Center 5. Alley Art 6. Le Mars Convention Center 7. Plymouth County Historical Museum 8. Plymouth County Fair Grounds 9. Browns Theater Objective CFS 4.2: Continue to preserve registered historic structures and highlight the history of Le Mars in tourism initiatives. Objective CFS 4.3: Provide better communication of city events Objective CFS 4.4: Continually research funding for recreation and tourism. Objective CFS 4.5: Complete remaining Community Betterment projects (CBP).

G OAL : C F S 5 E DUCATIONAL S ERVICES Preserve and enhance the educational facilities in Le Mars.

Objective CFS 5.1: Improve and expand library building and services. (Expand hours, improve facility) Objective CFS 5.2: Develop resources to keep the library the number one point of access for internet and computer services. Objective CFS 5.3: Facilitate partnerships with the K-12 schools in Le Mars to support and provide educational opportunities for all ages Objective CFS 5.4: Support and build partnerships with Higher Education and Continuing education facilities in Le Mars. Continue to support and expand career pathways and career academies

G OAL : C F S 6 F O O D S YSTEMS AND A GRICULTURE Objective CFS 6.1: Encourage the Le Mars Area Chamber of Commerce to establish a farmers market on main street; showcase the county's strong agricultural-based industries. Objective CFS 6.2: Continue to support Regional Food System Working Group of Iowa and other food system initiatives such as community gardens.

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C H A P T E R 7 : COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES G OAL : C F S 7 H E A L T H A N D S O C I A L S ERVICES Preserve and enhance social services, hospitals, clinics, wellness, mental health, and cemeteries in Le Mars

Objective CFS 7.1: Continue to support and enhance social service agencies and programs available to Le Mars residents and businesses. Objective CFS 7.2: Encourage expansion of adult and child day care options. Objective CFS 7.3: Work with Floyd Valley Health Care and Medical Associates P. C. to maintain and expand health services. Objective CFS 7.4: Continue to collaborate with Floyd Valley Health Care in offering community wellness programs throughout Plymouth County. Objective CFS 7.5: Preserve Le Mars' history with maintenance of existing cemeteries. Opportunity to provide cemetery tours Objective CFS 7.6: Research health and social services programs, grants, and pursue initiatives with partnering agencies and facilities such as: Mid-Sioux Opportunity, Plymouth County, Floyd Valley Health Care, Wellness Center, senior facilities, mental health facilities, cemeteries and religious institutions.

G OAL : C F S 8 G O V E R N M E N T B UILDINGS Objective CFS 8.1: Preserve and enhance the government buildings in Le Mars including City Hall and Plymouth County Courthouse

G OAL : C F S 9 P U B L I C S AFETY Support the public safety services, facilities, and programs in Le Mars

Objective CFS 9.1: Continue to support the police services, facilities, and programs and research new initiatives Action 9.1.1 Monitor existing services and programs and enhance as needed Action 9.1.2 Provide additional building space for police department Action 9.1.3 Increase staffing and advanced training in police Department Action 9.1.4 Develop plans for a Citizens Academy Action 9.1.5 Continue Project Child Safe - kits include a cable-style gun-locking device Objective CFS 9.2: Continue to support the Fire Rescue services, facilities, and programs and research new initiatives Action 9.2.1 Increase staffing in the Fire-Rescue Department Action 9.2.2 Continue to support the fire-rescue services and needs Action 9.2.3 Evaluate future needed fire station locations to the southern area of Le Mars Action 9.1.4 Evaluate future equipment needs based on services provided or needed services for the growing community Objective CFS 9.3: Continue to support the Ambulance services, facilities, and programs and research new initiatives Action 9.3.1: Upgrade second ambulance with life pack medical equipment Action 9.3.2: Increase staffing and advanced training in Ambulance Department Objective CFS 9.3: Continue to support Disaster Preparedness by regularly reviewing and updating the City of Le Mars Disaster Preparedness Plan Objective CFS 9.3: Continue to support the Hazard Mitigation by regularly reviewing and updating the Hazard Mitigation Plan

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C H A P T E R 8 : PARKS, RECREATION, AND NATURAL RESOURCES

C H A P T E R 8: P ARKS , R ECREATION , A N D N A T U R A L R ESOURCES

Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Vision: To maintain and update a network of recreational facilities and natural areas that meets the needs of current and future residents.

BENEFITS OF PARKS Public Health Benefits of Parks Access to park facility encourages people to exercise more. In a study published by Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that improved access to places for physical activity led to a 25.6 percent increase in the number of people who exercise on three or more days per week. Beyond the recreational opportunities offered by

parks, a growing body of research shows that contact with the natural world improves physical and psychological health. Economic Benefits of Parks Properties located closer to park facilities have been showed to have higher values. According to Crompton, “the real estate market consistently demonstrates that many people are willing to pay a larger amount for a property located

close to parks and open spaces areas than for a home that does not offer this amenity. Other economic benefits of parks include its ability to attract and retain businesses and residents. City parks also have the potential to improve tourism. Environmental Benefits of Parks City parks are noted to contribute to pollution abatement and cooling of the environment. Parks also have the potential to control storm water runoff. Social Benefits of Parks

Access to public parks and recreational facilities has been strongly linked to reductions in crime, and stable neighborhoods with strong community. CLASSIFICATION OF PARKS The table below shows the classification of parks as recommended by National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). While the NRPA provides definitions for park classifications, it also acknowledges that each community is

unique in terms of geographical, cultural and socioeconomic make-up. As such each community or park agency should develop its own standards for parks with the NRPA definitions as a guide.

National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Suggested Park Classification System Park Type Service Area Desired Size Acre per 1,000 population Mini Park Less than ¼ mile radius 1 acre or less 0.25 – 0.5 Neighborhood ¼ - ½ mile radius 15 + acres 1-2 Community 1-2 mile radius 25 + acres 5-8 Regional 1 hr. drive time 200+ acres 5-10 Source: Urban Land Use Planning 5th Edition. University of Illinois Press. Berke, Godshalk, Kaiser, Rodriguez. 2006. Pages 416-417. E X I S T I N G R ECREATIONAL AND N ATURAL AMENITIES

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C H A P T E R 8 : PARKS, RECREATION, AND NATURAL RESOURCES E X I S T I N G P A R K S I N L E M ARS The City of Le Mars manages about 15 parks. Approximately five of the parks are mini parks while seven of them are neighborhood parks (see Figure 1). The remaining three parks fall under the category of a community park. The city also manages a golf course which is more than 200 acres in size. The following section describes each of the parks in the city.

A D L E R P A R K Adler Park is a 1.6-acre open space located in the north-eastern corner of the City of Le Mars. A trail abuts the northern and eastern ends of the park. Adler Park currently, has no recreational amenities. The City of Le Mars should upgrade the park to meet the recreational needs of the citizens. The city should invest in basic amenities like playground equipment, benches, picnic tables and others to upgrade Adler Park to the standards of a mini park.

B OLSE R P A R K Bolser Park is a mini-park located in the south-eastern portion of the City of Le Mars. Second Street SE abuts Bolser Park to the north, Fifth Avenue SE to the West, Third Street SE to the South and Sixth Avenue SE to the East of the park. The park is 2.4 acres in size and has basic amenities such as soccer field, two ballfields, and a concession stand. Bolser Park has limited tree coverage and electric and water services. The city should continue to make efforts to maintain the landscape and the amenities available at the Bolser Park.

C L E V E L A N D P ARK Cleveland Park is a neighborhood park located to the east of Bolser Park. The park is 6.8 acre in size and hosts several amenities such as basketball court, drinking fountains, grill, horseshoe pits, in-line skate rink, picnic shelters, playground equipment, and restrooms. Large tree canopies occupy larger portions of the park.

F O S T E R P ARK Foster Park is a 2.5-acre mini-park located in the central portion of the city. Central Avenue S. abuts Foster Park to the west; Sixth Street to the north; First Avenue SE to the east, and Seventh Street SE located to the south of the park. Foster Park hosts several amenities such as drinking fountains, gazebo, playground equipment and restrooms. The National Register of Historic Places on April 25th, 2008 recognized Foster Park and the surrounding neighborhood as a historic district. Some of the events held at Foster Park include Le Mars’ Ice Cream Days Celebration, wedding ceremonies and others. Foster Park

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C H A P T E R 8 : PARKS, RECREATION, AND NATURAL RESOURCES M U N I C I P A L P ARK The Le Mars’ Municipal Park is a 44.2-acre open space located in the northern portion of the city. The North and South Pond located at the center of the Municipal Park is a destination for fishing, sightseeing, and camping. Le Mars’ Municipal Park hosts several amenities such as park shelter, bike trail, horseshoe pits, picnic shelters and tables, playground equipment, restrooms, tennis courts, and volleyball. The citizens of Le Mars use the park shelter for ceremonies such as family gathering, birthday party, graduation party and others. The City of Le Mars has plans of renovating the Municipal Shelter to improve the aesthetics and historical integrity of the area. Municipal Park

O’T O O L E P ARK Located to the east of Central Avenue NW, O’Toole Park is a destination for picnics, sightseeing, and other recreational activities. O’Tool Park is a 2.9-acre open space and hosts several amenities such as playground equipment, shelter, grill and picnic areas. The City of Le Mars has plans of upgrading the park by adding a skateboard park.

P A U L I N P ARK Paulin Park is a 0.6-acre mini-park located in the eastern corner of Lee Drive. The park has limited recreational amenities; the available recreational amenities include picnic areas and playground equipment. The city should invest in additional recreational amenities to help meet the needs of the citizens of Le Mars.

R I V E R V I E W B ASEBALL /SO F T B A L L C OMPLEX Located to the north of Iowa Highway 3, Riverview Baseball/Softball Complex is a destination for baseball and softball tournament and sightseeing in the City of Le Mars. The complex is 11.2 acres in size and hosts several amenities such as restroom, concession stands, lighted softball and baseball field and others. . S C H A F E R P ARK Schafer Park is an 8.8-acre neighborhood park located to the east of Schafer Avenue. Schafer Park is a horticultural park with several horticultural plants cultivated to enhance the aesthetics of the neighborhoods abutting the park. Some of the recreational amenities available at the Schafer Park include seats and walking trails.

O U T D O O R S W I M M I N G P OOL/PARK The Outdoor Swimming Pool/Park exists to meet the swimming needs of the citizens of Le Mars. Located to the north of Third Avenue SE, the Outdoor Swimming Pool/Park is 2.7 acres in size. The Outdoor Swimming Pool/Park hosts several amenities such as locker rooms, Schafer Park parking, picnic tables, playground, pool, restrooms, and swimming pool.

P L Y M O U T H C O U N T Y V E T E R A N S M E M O R I A L P ARK

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C H A P T E R 8 : PARKS, RECREATION, AND NATURAL RESOURCES Located adjacent to the YMCA building, the Veterans Memorial Park is a 1.3-acre open space commemorating the service of all veterans; it represents all branches of service.

W A L N U T P ARK Walnut Park is a 0.8-acre mini-park located to the east of Central Avenue S. Walnut Park hosts several amenities such as basketball court, picnic tables, and playground equipment. Sidewalk abuts the park to the south and east, and large tree canopies occupy a greater portion of the park.

W E S T M A R M E M O R I A L P ARK Westmar Memorial Park is a 1.4-acre mini-park located on the former Westmar property. Located adjacent to the Plymouth County Veterans Memorial Park, Westmar Memorial Park hosts memorials and cornerstone structures to remember 100 plus years of the Plymouth County Veterans Memorial Park college’s services to the community.

W E S T F L O Y D P ARK Located to the south of Iowa Highway 3, West Floyd Park is a destination for soccer, baseball and softball tournaments. West Floyd Park is 47.7 acres in size and hosts several amenities such as baseball/softball fields, Disk golf, picnic shelters, tables, playground equipment, restrooms and Soccer Field. The park also offers opportunities to people to engage in other recreational activities such as sightseeing, walking and running.

W I L L O W C R E E K G O L F C OURSE Willow Creek Golf Course is a 245.6-acre open space located to the north of the City of Le Mars. The golf course is a 27 hole course offering varying levels of challenge for the better golfer or a shorter and easier path for the less experienced. Willow Creek Golf Course hosts several amenities such as drinking fountains, full bar services, rental clubs, restrooms, a concession area and others.

W I L L O W C R E E K C A M P G R O U N D Willow Creek Campground is a 3.5-acre open space located adjacent to the North Pond. The campground currently offers 37 cement pads with water and electricity. The City has plans of adding 25 new camp sites to the facility. Situated on the scenic Le Mars Municipal Park, campers have access to all the park facilities include sand volleyball, shelter house, swimming beach and a 3.6-acre spring fed pond with two docks.

M UNICIPAL TRAILS The City of Le Mars has a 3.1-mile uninterrupted trail, stretching from the north to the south end of the city. The trail traverses through the watershed of Floyd River and Willow Creek (see Figure 1); this provides opportunities to hikers to enjoy the natural environment abutting the river and the creek. Also, there are a lot of sidewalks in the city for transportation and recreational purposes. The City of Le Mars has a plan to extend the south end of the trail from 200th Street to the County Road C-38 and the north end of the trail from Old Highway 60 (Madison Avenue) to 160th Street. The City of Le Mars has also planned of initiating a trail project that will connect the south trail of the city to the existing trails in Sioux City. The Plywood Trail which will be the name of the trail after completion will benefit communities such as Le Mars, Merrill, Hinton, and Sioux City. The City of Le Mars should continue to identify opportunities to increase the trail network in the city, as these trail networks can serve as a greenway and open space to improve the natural environment of the city.

P A R K S A N D T R A I L M A P O F T H E C I T Y O F L E M ARS

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C H A P T E R 8 : PARKS, RECREATION, AND NATURAL RESOURCES

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C H A P T E R 8 : PARKS, RECREATION, AND NATURAL RESOURCES P ARKS , R ECREATION A N D N A T U R A L R E S O U R C E C ONCEPTS E NVIRONMENTALLY S E N S I T I V E A REAS The environmentally sensitive areas in the City of Le Mars include wetland, floodplain, open space, shorelands, and watersheds. The environmentally sensitive areas in the City of Le Mars stretches within a 100 meter buffer zone of the Floyd River and the Willow Creeks (see Figure 2). These environmentally sensitive areas play an important role in the ecological set up of the city. Wetlands and shore lands are vital to the health of the larger watershed and floodways, trapping floodwaters, reducing water pollution and recharging local groundwater. The City of Le Mars should rigorously review site plans proposing development in these areas to ensure their protection. The city should also encourage low impact designs and other conservation design approaches on properties located partially or entirely within these environmentally sensitive areas. The city should continue to enforce the existing ordinances (Code of Ordinance Chapter 160 and 167) protecting these sensitive areas.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR8) estimates that over half of the original forest in the State of Iowa has been lost. According to DNR these changes and other factors such as channelization of streams and rivers, soil erosion, development and urban expansion, and intensive row crop agriculture have contributed to the loss or degradation of suitable habitat for numerous plant and animal species. As such the majority of species of fish, plant life, or wildlife are in danger of extinction. These plant and animal speicies are known as Endangered Species. Some of the Endangered Species in Plymouth County include Northern long-eared bat (Myotis septentrionalis), Prairie bush clover (Lespedeza leptostachya), and Western prairie fringed orchid (Platanthera praeclara) (U.S. Fish and Widlife Service, 20169). The City of Le Mars should work with the County in protecting these Endangered Species in the region.

E NVIRONMENTALLY S E N S I T I V E A REAS M A P N E X T P AGE

F I G U R E 2: E NVIRONMENTALLY S E N S I T I V E A REAS IN THE C I T Y O F L E M ARS

8http://www.iowadnr.gov/Conservation/Threatened-Endangered

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C H A P T E R 8 : PARKS, RECREATION, AND NATURAL RESOURCES

A CCESS TO AND D ISTRIBUTION OF AMENI TIES Level of Services (LOS) analysis can help determine community needs. LOS analysis also helps determine whether

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C H A P T E R 8 : PARKS, RECREATION, AND NATURAL RESOURCES parkland, facilities, programs and funding are distributed equitably across a geographic area. This document used Acreage LOS (acre per capita) and Access LOS (using road network within the city) approaches to determine the park needs of the City of Le Mars. The City of Le Mars has more than 381.9 acres of parks and open spaces. The developed park areas in the City of Le Mars constitute approximately 134.9 acres (excluding golf course, and parks and recreational facilities associated with local educational institutions).

With the Acreage LOS approach, the LOS analysis indicates that the City of Le Mars has 13.7 acres of park per 1000 population (given the 2010 population of 9,826). This result is higher than the standard (10 acres of park per 1000 population) proposed by National Recreation Association (NRA) in 1930. Though there is no published Acreage LOS standard in the U.S. today, most cities use the 1930s standard proposed by the NRA. The City of Le Mars should set Acreage LOS target and plan towards attaining it.

With the Access LOS approach, the LOS analysis shows that certain portions of the city have limited access to park amenities. In Figure 3 below the first Map shows that the residents living within the indigo-shaded areas have access to a playground within a half-mile of their homes. The second map shows that residents who live within the blue-shaded area have access to a playground within a 3 mile of their homes. The residents living within the brown shaded areas of the map travel more than 3 miles before they can access a park facility. The city should collaborate with the citizens to ensure equitable distribution of parks to improve access to park amenities.

P A R K N E E D S A SSESSMENT M A P S N E X T P AGE

F I G U R E 3: P A R K N E E D S A SSESSMENT OF THE C I T Y O F L E M ARS

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C H A P T E R 8 : PARKS, RECREATION, AND NATURAL RESOURCES

A GRICULTURAL P ROTECTION Agricultural activities in the City of Le Mars usually occur within and outside the city proper. The Rural Zone District (R) City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 107

C H A P T E R 8 : PARKS, RECREATION, AND NATURAL RESOURCES and the Conservation District (RC) within the city limit permit agricultural land use. As the city expands, the pressure to convert these agricultural land uses to non-agricultural uses will increase. The city should consider protecting existing agricultural lands in the city by zoning these areas as Exclusive Farm Zones. The city can also encourage compact and high-density development to protect the agricultural lands in the city. Other measures that the city can adopt to protect agricultural lands include Transfer of Development Right (TDR), and Incentivizing Agricultural Investment and Redevelopment.

S USTAINABLE /RE S I L I E N T D EVELOPM ENT Sustainable development focuses on meeting the needs of present generation without compromising the ability of the future generations to meet their needs. Resilient Community, on the other hand, is the ability of a city to anticipate risk, limit its impact and bounce back rapidly by adapting in the face of disruptive shocks and stresses. The City of Le Mars should encourage sustainable development practices such as compact growth (high-density development and mixed use), preserving agricultural land, open spaces, and environmentally sensitive areas, and promoting multimodal transportation in the city.

O P E N S P A C E A N D C ORRID OR The open space and other natural corridors (e.g. Floyd River, Willow Creeks and others) are essential for sustainable development of the City of Le Mars. The City of Le Mars should continue to enforce the city ordinance enacted to protect these important resources of the city. The city should promote smart growth principles such as compact development, infill development, high-density zoning, mixed-used development, urban forest, community garden and others.

G R E E N I NFRASTRUCTURE Green Infrastructure is a term use to describe approaches meant to protect, restore or mimic the natural water cycle. Green infrastructure uses vegetation, soils, and other elements and other practices to restore some of the natural processes required to manage water and create healthier urban environments. It filters and absorbs stormwater after heavy downpour thereby preventing pollution and flash floods. Green infrastructure is effective, economical and enhances the quality of life of a community.

SOME OF THE GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE APPROACHES INCLUDE: Downspout disconnection: involves the rerouting of rooftop drainage pipes to drain rainwater directly into rain barrels or other permeable areas instead of the storm sewer. Rainwater harvesting system: collects and store rainfall for later use. Rainwater harvesting system slows and reduces runoff and provides a source of water. Rain gardens: are shallow, vegetated basins that collect and absorb runoff from rooftops, sidewalks and streets. Rain garden depicts natural hydrology by infiltrating runoff. Bioswales: are vegetated and mulched channels that treat and retain water as they move storm water from one place to another. Permeable Pavements: are designed to infiltrate, and store rainwater. They can be constructed with previous concrete, porous asphalt, permeable interlocking pavers and other materials. Green Streets and alleys: integrates green infrastructure elements into the street and alley design to infiltrate and absorb storm water. Green Roofs: involves covering roofs with growing median and vegetation that enable rainfall infiltration and evapotranspiration of stored water. Green roofs are cost effective in dense urban areas. Land Conservation: Protecting open spaces and sensitive natural areas within and adjacent to cities can mitigate the water quality and flooding impacts of urban storm water while providing recreational opportunities for city residents.

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C H A P T E R 8 : PARKS, RECREATION, AND NATURAL RESOURCES P O T E N T I A L I MPROVEMENTS The City of Le Mars should continue to maintain and update park and trail amenities to meet the needs of the citizens. The city should have in place a park and trail master plan showcasing the timelines for improvement and maintenance of the existing park and trail infrastructure. Adler Park and Paulin Parks should be updated to meet the standards of a mini park. Also, the city should conduct an inventory of the park amenities available and collaborate with the neighborhood groups to identify the equipment needs of the citizens. A park amenity should be constructed in the south-western part of the city to improve citizen access to recreational facilities.

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C H A P T E R 8 : PARKS, RECREATION, AND NATURAL RESOURCES G OALS , O BJECTIVES , A N D A CTIONS G OAL : P R N R 1 M AINTAIN AND I MPROVE PARKS TO PROV IDE RECREATIONAL OPP ORTUNITIES TO ALL U S E R S P R N R 1 . 1 : Establish a park and trail committee P R N R 1 . 2 : Collaborate with the citizens to prepare park and recreational master plan P R N R 1 . 3 : Ensure adequate resources for maintenance and enhancement of existing park infrastructure. P R N R 1 . 4 : Establish a connected system of parks, trails, bikeways, and natural areas P R N R 1 . 5 : Ensure new and existing parks provide recreational opportunities that meet the needs of the citizens P R N R 1 . 6 : Consider emerging trends when planning for new parks and other recreational facilities.

G OAL : P R N R 2 P ROMOTE EASY ACCESS T O PARK INFRASTRUCTUR E FOR ALL RESIDENTS P R N R 2 . 1 : Ensure that citizens have access to park amenities within a 0.5-mile radius of their homes. P R N R 2 . 2 : Provide residents and visitors information about recreational locations, events, programs and educational opportunities. P R N R 2 . 3 : Continue to invest in pedestrian and bicycle-friendly paths and signage to promote easy park access for all residents.

G OAL : P R N R 3 M AINTAIN AND UPDATE T H E C ITY ’ S TRAIL SYSTEM FOR A LL RESIDENTS P R N R 3 . 1 : Invest in the preparation of Bicycle and Trail Master Plan for the City of Le Mars. P R N R 3 . 2 : Prioritize connecting existing trails and bike lanes to one another P R N R 3 . 3 : Continue to make an effort to invest in the Plywood trail that will connect the existing city trail to the regional trail network. P R N R 3 . 4 : Provide safe pedestrian and bike routes by ensuring that trails and bike lanes are well lit, signed and striped

G OAL : P R N R 4 P RESERVE , AND RESTORE NATURAL ECOLOGICAL SYSTEMS O F T H E C I T Y P R N R 4 . 1 : Increase the use of green infrastructure to decrease the city’s impact on the natural environment. P R N R 4 2 : Continue to ensure a rigorous scrutiny and mitigation requirement for development within environmentally sensitive areas. P R N R 4 . 3 : Encourage development in the urban core to alleviate development pressures on farmlands. P R N R 4 . 4 : Preserve, maintain and restore the Floyd River and Willow Creek greenways to promote water quality P R N R 4 . 5 : Promote urban forest and community garden in the city P R N R 4 . 6 : Develop and maintain a climate action plan for the City of Le Mars P R N R 4 . 7 : Increase education, awareness, and public involvement on environmental issues

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C H A P T E R 9 : PLAN IMPLEMENTATION

L E M A R S V I S I O N S TATEMENT

Le Mars, the Ice Cream Capital of the World, is a thriving community of choice with opportunity for everyone. It is a community that… - Embraces growth and development to increase opportunity for present and future residents - Is a place of choice for people of all ages and backgrounds and a destination for visitors

- Promotes a high quality of life with excellent educational, recreational, and health services - Supports its downtown as the economic and social hub of the community - Maintains Midwest values by being welcoming to all people, progressive, hardworking, and family- friendly - Encourages sustainability For these reasons and more, Le Mars’ vision for the future is to grow as a place where life is sweet!

P L A N I MPLEMENTATION Le Mars will strive to implement the vision, goals, objectives, and action steps developed in this Comprehensive Plan. The City of Le Mars adopted the vision statement stated above that encompasses the overarching image of the City’s future. Goals, objectives, and action steps were developed throughout the plan in the following categories:

. Land Use . Housing and Neighborhoods . Economic Development . Transportation . Community Facilities and Services . Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources

The table below is an action plan to reach the City’s vision and goals developed within this Comprehensive Plan. This Comprehensive Plan was developed with an estimated 10-year timeframe. Therefore, it is recommended that the City strive to achieve half the objectives in 5 years and the remaining objectives in 10 years. It is recommended that the City Staff regularly review and revise the implementation plan and identify priorities, timelines and measure progress.

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C H A P T E R 9 : IMPLEMENTATION I MPLEMENTATION A C T I O N P LAN Land Use Goal, Objective, Action Status GOAL LU1: Promote more mixed use development. Objective LU1.1: Provide incentives for more mixed uses on a single parcel. Objective LU1.2: Create more neighborhood businesses in residential areas. Objective LU1.3: Allow for greater flexibility for mixed use developments in the zoning code. GOAL LU2: Encourage sustainable development and design. Objective LU2.1: Avoid developing within the Floyd River floodplain. Objective LU2.2: Encourage sustainable building design standards. Objective LU2.3: Preserve land for recreation and preservation purposes. Objective LU2.4: Consider the financial sustainability of new developments. Housing and Neighborhoods Goal, Objective, Action Status GOAL HN1: Promote economic development through housing and neighborhood planning Objective HN1.1: Protect Le Mars’ existing assets and resources including employment opportunities, a downtown commercial district, strong schools and numerous community facilities and services. Objective HN 1.2: Build single-family housing developments for above• average or high-income households. Objective HN 1.3: New housing developments need to be adjacent to or near linear parks (recreational trails - not strictly bicycle or walking trails). Objective HN 1.4: Promote second story renovations in the downtown properties into housing or business spaces Objective HN 1.5: Attract new families to Le Mars GOAL HN2: Provide an ample supply of safe, diverse types of housing Objective HN 2.1: Build housing that is attainable for rent or purchase by all residents Objective HN 2.2: Promote construction of energy-efficient affordable single-family housing Objective HN 2.3: Promote rehabilitation and maintenance of existing housing stock Objective HN 2.4: Provide incentives for construction of high quality, affordable housing Objective HN 2.5: Educate the public on the benefits of home maintenance and the resources available to assist homeowners. Objective HN 2.6: Promote conversion of existing structures into affordable rental housing Objective HN 2.7: Implement down payment assistance programs and first-time buyers programs Objective HN 2.8: Continue activities of the Le Mars Housing Review Board (LHRB) Objective HN 2.9: Provide more development (build more homes, develop interchange/bypass, subdivisions, planned development) Objective HN 2.10: Develop moderate/subsidized and high-end rental-or-owner housing units with shared amenities Objective HN 2.11: Consider mobile homes or modular housing as an affordable housing alternative GOAL HN3: Ensure adequate opportunities are provided for the development of housing for seniors and other populations with special needs. Objective HN 3.1: Construction of barrier-free and/or assisted• living housing (with rental assistance) for the elderly based on established needs. Objective HN 3.2: Promote living in place and aid that allows seniors to stay in their homes Objective HN 3.3: Provide appropriate housing for people of all ages and abilities Objective HN 3.4: Plan for rolling over housing units and the transition of an aging population GOAL HN 4: Promote planned neighborhood development Objective HN 4.1: Ensure that growth occurs within neighborhoods and not separate disconnected developments

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C H A P T E R 9 : IMPLEMENTATION Objective HN 4.2: Encourage the formation of neighborhoods as development occurs in new areas of the community, as well as in existing areas. Reinforce and foster the following characteristics of good neighborhoods: Action HN 4.2.1: Human scale buildings and open spaces Action HN 4.2.1: Linkages to other neighborhoods and the city center Action HN 4.2.1: A safe environment, accessible for emergency services (friendly, low traffic, watch out for each other) Action HN 4.2.1: Nuisance free (well-maintained, quiet, no odor, compliance with zoning) Action HN 4.2.1: Accessible and Connected (walkable, bikeable, access to amenities, well- maintained roads sidewalks, grid-pattern, mixture of uses) Action HN 4.2.1: Greenspace (nearby parks, trails, mature trees) Action HN 4.2.1: Diverse (variety of people, housing, commercial businesses and building types) Action HN 4.2.1: Family Oriented (good schools, playgrounds for children, things for all ages) Action HN 4.2.1: Consistency in housing style and well kept Action HN 4.2.1: Pride and privacy GOAL HN 5: Improve quality of life Objective HN 5.1: Expand on and improve code enforcement of ordinances relating to the appearance of neighborhoods. Objective HN 5.2: Develop strategies for promoting well-maintained neighborhoods. Objective HN 5.3: Enforce housing codes with regards to safety, health and lead-based paint. Objective HN 5.4: Promote housing rehabilitation and upkeep (incentives to rehabilitate or demolish) Objective HN 5.5: Create Housing variety (mix of home type, price, tenure) GOAL HN 6: Coordinate housing actions Objective HN 6.1: Develop a coordinated action and marketing plan with timelines responsible parties Objective HN 6.2: Utilize existing active community volunteer involvement on housing issues Objective HN 6.3: Prioritize housing issues and establish actions and timelines to indicators of success in addressing housing needs Objective HN 6.4: Build public/private partnerships Objective HN 6.5: Access all available resources for housing –local, Federal and State programs - Submit application(s) to Federal and State housing programs (e.g. Iowa Department of Economic Development, Iowa Finance Authority, HUD and USDA). Objective HN 6.6: Establish monthly schedule for the Le Mars Housing Committee to meet; encourage public input. Objective HN 6.7: Develop a staff relationship with area housing agencies and with other area communities – consider joint grant applications. Economic Development Goal, Objective, Action Status GOAL EDA1: Promote Industrial Diversification By Recruiting, Incentivizing, And Retaining High- Quality Businesses Objective EDA1.1: Promote a business-friendly environment that encourages the retention, growth, and continuity of businesses. Objective EDA1.2: Support regional economic development programs that incentivize development and economic activity that are in line with the city’s aspirations. Objective EDA1.3: Collaborate with the private sector and other housing providers in meeting the housing demands of employers and employees. Objective EDA1.4: Embark on branding and marketing campaigns on the area’s quality of life and the low cost of doing business to attract new businesses needed to diversify the economy

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C H A P T E R 9 : IMPLEMENTATION Objective EDA1.5: Serve as a coordinator, facilitator, and connector between economic development organizations and local business Objective EDA1.6: Continue to provide financial incentives in the form of tax abatement and tax increment financing (TIF) to retain, and recruit new businesses and direct business growth to declining areas of the city. Objective EDA1.7: Continue to update and maintain a database of available resources for existing and new businesses Objective EDA1.8: Revitalize the downtown area and create additional commercial nodes to encourage business expansion and attract new businesses. Goal EDA2: Build and maintain an educated and skilled workforce that meets the needs of local businesses and increases economic opportunities for residents Objective EDA2.1: Work with a consulting firm to research the workforce and talent needs and gaps of current and targeted businesses and industries. Objective EDA2.2: Partner with the area’s educational institution to adapt educational and training programs to fill the employment gaps of the city. Objective EDA2.3: Encourage programs that align high schools with Community Colleges and four-year institutions Objective EDA2.4: Objective EDA2.5: Work with the Chamber of Commerce to initiate internship programs for the youth in the city. Objective EDA2.6: Facilitate the marketing of city’s job opportunities in higher educational institutions and brand the city as an attractive place to live. Goal EDA3: Ensure that Le Mars is a place where people can start and grow their business Objective EDA3.1: Continue to update and maintain a database of available entrepreneurship resources in the region Objective EDA3.2: Establish an entrepreneurship leadership council to create and oversee existing and new entrepreneurship programs in the city. Objective EDA3.3: Work with the business community to identify and remove barriers to establishing new businesses within the city. Objective EDA3.4: Partner with the higher educational institution in the city to establish business incubators in the downtown area Goal EDA4: Continue to update and maintain infrastructure to support existing and new businesses Objective EDA4.1: Utilize public-private partnership model to develop, fund and deliver critical infrastructure Objective EDA4.2: Continue to use capital improvement plans to prioritize infrastructure investments. Objective EDA4.3: Partner with state agencies dedicated to financing important critical infrastructure needed for economic development Goal EDA5: Ensure that Le Mars is a place where people will want to live, work, play, and learn Objective EDA5.1: Invest in updating and maintaining amenities such as parks, trails, recreation spaces, cultural places, and community spaces to make Le Mars a choice for businesses and residents Objective EDA5.2: Support the development of a complete multimodal transportation network that considers pedestrians, bicyclists, transit and automobiles. Objective EDA5.3: Encourage the expansion and diversification of retail opportunities to allow residents to meet more of their needs locally. Objective EDA5.4: Collaborate with the School District to ensure they offer the highest quality of education curriculum for residents Objective EDA5.5: Ensure that a diverse; attractive and affordable housing options are available for existing and potential workforce Goal EDA6: Support tourism based-economic development

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C H A P T E R 9 : IMPLEMENTATION Objective EDA6.1: Continue to expand, update and maintain meeting spaces and recreational facilities to attract people to the city Objective EDA6.2: Improve the uniqueness and sense of place of the city by identifying and preserving the city’s heritage and cultural resources Objective EDA6.3: Support and promote arts and culture in the City of Le Mars Objective EDA6.4: Increase marketing campaign on attractive areas, arts, and heritage festivals to expand cultural tourism. Transportation Goal, Objective, Action Status Goal T1: Maintain the existing transportation infrastructure in order to keep in excellent condition. Objective T1.1: Properly maintain streets and roads to keep them free from potholes and cracks. Objective T1.2: Ensure property owners are adequately maintaining their sidewalks. Objective T1.3: Prioritize streets in a state of disrepair for new road improvements. Goal T2: Expand the existing bicycle network. Objective T2.1: Expand the on-street network of bicycle lanes. Objective T2.2: Expand the off-street network of recreational trails. Objective T2.3: Provide more bicycle parking in public locations. Objective T2.4: Become a Bronze level Bicycle Friendly Community. Goal T3: Improve the pedestrian experience. Objective T3.1: Fill the gaps in the sidewalk network. Objective T3.2: Clearly mark pedestrian crossings. Objective T3.3: Have pedestrian signals at all light controlled intersections. Objective T3.4: Create walkable areas by adding more greenspace and other pedestrian amenities. Goal T4: Implement the recommendations of the Rail Expansion Master Plan. Objective T4.1: Extend rail sidetracks. Objective T4.2: Add an additional transload facility. Objective T4.3: Create another mainline connection south of Le Mars. Objective T4.4: Implement a railroad quiet zone. Goal T5: Improve the existing airport in accordance with the Airport Master Plan. Objective T5.1: Implement a runway expansion or extension. Objective T5.2: Improve and create more hangars and aircraft parking. Objective T5.3: Create a parallel taxiway to the runway. Goal T6: Improve the safety of the transportation network. Objective T6.1: Reduce the number of crashes. Objective T6.2: Reduce the number of fatalities. Objective T6.3: Reduce the number of serious injuries. Community Facilities and Services Goal, Objective, Action Status Goal: CFS1 Water, Waste Water, Storm Water Provide high quality water, wastewater, and storm water utility services in a cost-effective manner throughout the city. Objective CFS 1.1: Maintain and improve water, wastewater, and storm water utilities as required to meet or exceed standards Objective CFS 1.2: Monitor and report maintenance and improvements associated with the City’s water utilities Objective CFS 1.3: Develop a storm sewer system to meet the city's needs. Objective CFS 1.4: Continue to budget maintenance funds to rehabilitate lines and eliminate sources of inflow from the sewage collection system.

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C H A P T E R 9 : IMPLEMENTATION Objective CFS 1.5: Compare and consult the annual Water Department report for relevant statistics, goals and objectives. Objective CFS 1.6: Practice Proactive planning (sustain plans and maintenance budget) Objective CFS 1.7: Where appropriate, require storm sewer in all new development. Undertake a storm sewer installation program in conjunction with Iowa Department of Natural Resources requirements. Objective CFS 1.8: Encourage the preservation of viable existing infrastructure (water distribution, sanitary sewer, storm sewer collection and transportation); promote compact and incremental growth and development to encourage the economical extensions of the existing infrastructure. Goal CFS2: Maintain and Improve partnerships with external utilities to facilitate a high quality of life for residents Objective CFS 2.1: Research and develop partnerships with external utility companies that provide energy to Le Mars residents and businesses. Objective CFS 2.2: Research fiber optic services and internet service in Le Mars and propose improvements as needed Objective CFS 2.3: Work with utilities, companies and residents to reduce carbon emissions Goal CFS3: Maintain and improve solid waste removal in Le Mars Objective CFS 3.1: Continue to provide and mandate recycling in Le Mars. Objective CFS 3.2: Continue to monitor and report recycling and garbage statistics. Objective CFS 3.3: Plan for future use of the landfill. Objective CFS 3.4: Continue to educate residents and businesses and report special programs such as build with bags. Goal CFS4: Preserve, enhance, and expand the history of Le Mars and cultural facilities and attractions Objective CFS 4.1: Preserve and enhance the following historic or cultural facilities and attractions: Le Mars Arts Center Le Mars Community Theatre - Postal Playhouse Blue Bunny Visitor's Center Olson Cultural Events Center Alley Art Le Mars Convention Center Plymouth County Historical Museum Plymouth County Fair Grounds Objective CFS 4.2: Continue to preserve registered historic structures and highlight the history of Le Mars in tourism initiatives. Objective CFS 4.3: Provide better communication of city events Objective CFS 4.4: Continually research funding for recreation and tourism. Objective CFS 4.5: Complete remaining Community Betterment projects (CBP). Goal CFS5: Preserve and enhance the educational facilities in Le Mars. Objective CFS 5.1: Improve and expand library building and services. (Expand hours, improve facility) Objective CFS 5.2: Develop resources to keep the library the number one point of access for internet and computer services. Objective CFS 5.3: Facilitate partnerships with the K-12 schools in Le Mars to support and provide educational opportunities for all ages Objective CFS 5.4: Support and build partnerships with Higher Education and Continuing education facilities in Le Mars Goal: CFS6 Food Systems and Agriculture Objective CFS 6.1: Encourage the Le Mars Area Chamber of Commerce to establish a farmers market on main street; showcase the county's strong agricultural-based industries.

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C H A P T E R 9 : IMPLEMENTATION Objective CFS 6.2: Continue to support Regional Food System Working Group of Iowa and other food system initiatives such as community gardens. Goal: CFS7 Health and Social Services Preserve and enhance social services, hospitals, clinics, wellness, mental health, and cemeteries in Le Mars Objective CFS 7.1: Continue to support and enhance social service agencies and programs available to Le Mars residents and businesses. Objective CFS 7.2: Encourage expansion of adult and child day care options. Objective CFS 7.3: Work with Floyd Valley Health Care and Medical Associates P. C. to maintain and expand health services. Objective CFS 7.4: Continue to collaborate with Floyd Valley Health Care in offering community wellness programs throughout Plymouth County. Objective CFS 7.5: Preserve Le Mars' history with maintenance of existing cemeteries. Opportunity to provide cemetery tours Objective CFS 7.6: Research health and social services programs, grants, and pursue initiatives with partnering agencies and facilities such as: Mid-Sioux Opportunity, Plymouth County, Floyd Valley Health Care, Wellness Center, senior facilities, mental health facilities, cemeteries and religious institutions. Goal: CFS8 Government Buildings Objective CFS 8.1: Preserve and enhance the government buildings in Le Mars including City Hall and Plymouth County Courthouse Goal: CFS9 Public Safety Objective CFS 9.1: Continue to support the police services, facilities, and programs and research new initiatives Action 9.1.1 Monitor existing services and programs and enhance as needed Action 9.1.2 Provide additional building space for police department Action 9.1.3 Increase staffing and advanced training in police Department Action 9.1.4 Develop plans for a Citizens Academy Action 9.1.5 Continue Project Child Safe - kits include a cable-style gun-locking device Objective CFS 9.2: Continue to support the Fire Rescue services, facilities, and programs and research new initiatives Action 9.2.1 Increase staffing in the Fire-Rescue Department Action 9.2.2 Continue to support the fire-rescue services and needs Action 9.2.3 Evaluate future needed fire station locations to the southern area of Le Mars Action 9.1.4 Evaluate future equipment needs based on services provided or needed services for the growing community Objective CFS 9.3: Continue to support the Ambulance services, facilities, and programs and research new initiatives Objective CFS 9.3: Continue to support Disaster Preparedness by regularly reviewing and updating the City of Le Mars Disaster Preparedness Plan Objective CFS 9.3: Continue to support the Hazard Mitigation by regularly reviewing and updating the Hazard Mitigation Plan Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources Goal, Objective, Action Status Goal PRNR1: Maintain and Improve parks to provide recreational opportunities to all users PRNR1.1: Establish a park and trail committee PRNR1.2: Collaborate with the citizens to prepare park and recreational master plan PRNR1.3: Ensure adequate resources for maintenance and enhancement of existing park infrastructure. PRNR1.4: Establish a connected system of parks, trails, bikeways, and natural areas City of Le Mars 2016 Comprehensive Plan DRAFT 01/10/17 117

C H A P T E R 9 : IMPLEMENTATION PRNR1.5: Ensure new and existing parks provide recreational opportunities that meet the needs of the citizens PRNR1.6: Consider emerging trends when planning for new parks and other recreational facilities. Goal PRNR2: Promote easy access to park infrastructure for all residents PRNR2.1: Ensure that citizens have access to park amenities within a 0.5-mile radius of their homes. PRNR2.2: Provide residents and visitors information about recreational locations, events, programs and educational opportunities. PRNR2.3: Continue to invest in pedestrian and bicycle-friendly paths and signage to promote easy park access for all residents. Goal PRNR3: Maintain and update the City’s trail system for all residents PRNR3.1: Invest in the preparation of Bicycle and Trail Master Plan for the City of Le Mars. PRNR3.2: Prioritize connecting existing trails and bike lanes to one another PRNR3.3: Continue to make an effort to invest in the Plywood trail that will connect the existing city trail to the regional trail network. PRNR3.4: Provide safe pedestrian and bike routes by ensuring that trails and bike lanes are well lit, signed and striped Goal PRNR4: Preserve, and restore natural ecological systems of the city PRNR4.1: Increase the use of green infrastructure to decrease the city’s impact on the natural environment. PRNR42: Continue to ensure a rigorous scrutiny and mitigation requirement for development within environmentally sensitive areas. PRNR4.3: Encourage development in the urban core to alleviate development pressures on farmlands. PRNR4.4: Preserve, maintain and restore the Floyd River and Willow Creek greenways to promote water quality PRNR4.5: Promote urban forest and community garden in the city PRNR4.6: Develop and maintain a climate action plan for the City of Le Mars PRNR4.7: Increase education, awareness, and public involvement on environmental issues

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS

APPENDIX A : P U B L I C M E E T I N G R ESULTS

P U B L I C M E E T I N G P ROCESS Public opinion was gathered as a part of the comprehensive planning process. Public input meetings were held on Tuesday evenings at different locations in Le Mars. Meetings were advertised through press releases, fliers, and online posts several weeks in advance of each meeting. The meetings were scheduled several weeks apart. Each meeting had a different topic of discussion. The first meeting was on May 3rd, 2016 and the last meeting was on October 4th, 2016.

Each public input meeting had a brief presentation that described the comprehensive planning process and the topic of the meeting. Following the presentation, the participants would individually write their answer a series of questions about the meeting’s topic. After a few minutes of generating ideas on their own, the participants would then introduce themselves and share their ideas with the other participants in their group. Each group of participants would then write down their ideas on a flip chart. Once everyone’s ideas were on the flip chart, the group of participants would vote for their favorite ideas and keep a tally of the votes. The flip charts were collected after each meeting and the ideas that received votes were counted afterwards. The following pages have the vote results from the public input meetings.

Following the public input meetings, there was a public open house that was used to reveal the results of the meetings to the public. The open house took place on November 15th, 2016.

L I S T O F W ORKSHOPS 1. May 3, 2016 Kick-off Values, Strengths, and Weaknesses 2. June 7, 2016 Housing and Neighborhoods 3. July 12, 2016 Economic Development 4. August 16, 2016 Transportation 5. September 13, 2016 Community Facilities 6. October 4, 2016 Land Use

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS V ALUES , S TRENGTHS , A N D W EAKNESSES Q1 V A L U E S A N D C HARACTERISTICS : W HAT DESCRIPTIVE WORD S AND VALUES CHARACTERIZE THE SPI R I T O F L E M ARS ?

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS Q2 V I S I O N S TATEMENT : W HAT WOULD YOU LIKE L E M ARS TO BE LIKE IN 20 YEARS ?

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS Q3 S TRENGTHS AND O PPORTUNITIES : W HAT STRENGTHS AND OPPORTUNITIES DO YOU SEE FOR L E M ARS ?

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS Q4 W EAKNESSES AND T HREATS : W HAT WEAKNESSES AND T HREATS DO YOU SEE IN L E M ARS ?

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS H OUSING Q1 H OUSING AND N EIGHBORHOODS : W HAT CHARACTERISTICS MAKE A GOOD NEIGHBORHOOD ?

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS Q2 H OUSING AND N EIGHBORHOODS : W H A T K I N D S OF IMPROVEMENTS AND HOUSING WOULD YOU LI KE TO SEE ADDED TO E XISTING AND FUTURE NEIGHBORHOODS IN L E M ARS ? Things to consider: location, parks, playgrounds, recreation facilities, trails, schools, employment areas, neighborhood retail, street layout, design features, and types of homes (style, affordability, type, variety, etc.)

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS Q3 H OUSING AND N EIGHBORHOODS : W H A T L O N G - TERM GOALS SHOULD TH E C ITY HAVE RELATED TO EXIS TING AND NEW HOMES I N L E M ARS ?

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS Q4 H OUSING AND N EIGHBORHOODS : W H A T L O N G - T E R M G O A L S SHOULD THE C ITY HAVE RELATED TO EXIS TING AND DEVELOPING NEIGHBORHOODS IN L E M ARS ?

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS E C O N O M I C D EVELOPMENT Q1 E C O N O M I C D EVELOPMENT : W HAT CHARACTERISTICS MAKE A STRONG ECONOMY ?

Q2 E C O N O M I C D EVELOPMENT : W HAT IMPROVEMENTS DO YOU WANT FOR THE E X I S T I N G ECONOMY ? W H A T J O B S , INDUSTRIES , OR BUSINESSES WOULD B E BENEFICIAL TO BRING T O L E M ARS ?

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS Q3 E C O N O M I C D EVELOPMENT : W HAT POLICIES SHOULD BE USED TO ATTRACT N E W J O B S , BUSINESSES , OR INDUSTRIES TO L E M ARS ? W HAT WOULD MAKE L E M ARS MORE ATTRACTIVE T O B U S I N E S SES ?

Q4 E C O N O M I C D EVELOPMENT : W HAT ECONOMIC GOALS S H O U L D T H E C I T Y O F L E M ARS TRY TO REACH REL ATED TO THE ECONOMY ?

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS T RANSPORTATION Q1 T RANSPORTATION : W HAT CHARACTERISTICS MAKE A GOOD TRANSPOR T A T I O N NETWORK ?

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS Q2 T RANSPORTATION : W HAT IMPROVEMENT S DO YOU WANT TO SEE F O R E A C H MODE OF TRANSPORTATI ON? (PEDESTRIAN , BICYCLE , AUTOMOBILE , TRANSIT , RAIL , AIR )

Q3 T RANSPORTATION : W HAT IMPROVEMENTS DO YOU WANT TO SEE FOR T H E L E M ARS ’ TRANSPORTATION NETWO RK AS A WHOLE ?

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS Q4 T RANSPORTATION : W H A T T R A N S P ORTATION GOALS OR PR IORITIES SHOULD T H E C I T Y O F L E M ARS TRY TO REACH ?

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS C O M M U N I T Y F ACILITIES Q1 C O M M U N I T Y F ACILITIES : W HAT IMPROVEMENTS OR CHANGES DO YOU WANT TO SEE TO THE EXISTI NG COMMUNITY FACILIT IES , SERVICES , AND NATURAL RESOURCES OF L E M ARS ?

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS Q2 C O M M U N I T Y F ACILITIES : A RE THERE ANY NEW COM MUNITY FACILITIES , SERVICES , OR RESOURCES THAT L E M ARS SHOULD BEGIN TO OFFER ?

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS Q3 C O M M U N I T Y F ACILITIES : W HAT GOALS OR PRIORIT IES SHOULD THE C I T Y O F L E M ARS TRY TO REACH IN REGARDS TO ITS COMMU NITY FACILITI ES, SERVICES , AND NATURAL RESOURCE S ?

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS L A N D U SE Q1 L A N D U SE: D O E S L E M ARS NEED MORE OR LES S OF A CERTAIN TYPE O F L A N D USE OR ZONE ? Land use types include – R: Rural (agricultural). Residential (R-1: low, R-1A: medium, or R-2: high density). Business (B-1: neighborhood, B-2: general, B-3: central). Industrial (I-1: light, I-2: general, I-3: heavy). RC: Conservation (recreation).

Q2 L A N D U SE: S HOULD ANY OF THE LAN D USE OR ZONING REGU LATIONS IN L E M ARS BE CHANGED ? I F S O , HOW ? Regulations include: setback requirements, building height restrictions, permitted and conditional uses, etc.

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APPENDIX A PUBLIC MEETING RESULTS Q3 L A N D U SE: S H O U L D L E M ARS ANNEX OR ACQUIRE M O R E L A N D ? I F S O , WHERE ?

Q4 L A N D U SE: W HAT GOALS OR PRIORIT IES SHOULD THE C I T Y O F L E M A R S T R Y TO REACH IN REGARDS TO LAND USE AND ZONI NG?

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