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Cedar Rapids Council approves first reading to rezone Hoover Elementary site amid neighborhood objections
Summary
After extensive neighbor testimony about an access drive, noise and proximity to homes, the Cedar Rapids City Council approved on first reading a rezoning that would allow the Cedar Rapids Community School District to build a new Hoover Elementary; the district pledged continued outreach and screening options and a second reading is expected July 22.
The Cedar Rapids City Council on July 8 approved on first reading an ordinance to change the zoning for 4141 Johnson Avenue NW (the Hoover Elementary site) from suburban residential low-single-unit to public/institutional, clearing the way for the Cedar Rapids Community School District to construct a new elementary school.
Neighbors gave more than a dozen public comments urging delay or design changes. Speakers living on Roxbury Drive and adjacent streets said they support a new school but object to the building placement and a proposed 26-foot access drive immediately south of the building. Joe Brokaw told the council, “we are going to build this school regardless of what you guys want,” saying a promised screening and wall plan had not been produced. Several residents said recent drilling ‘shook my house’ and expressed concern about dust, construction staging, loss of informal play areas and effects on property values.
City staff, represented by zoning administrator Seth Gunnerson, said the site is roughly 11.7 acres, that the proposed public/institutional district is consistent with the comprehensive plan and that a fire-code required access will likely be needed on the south side. Gunnerson said the district has committed to options including moving the structure several feet north when feasible, constructing a privacy/security fence and adding vegetation and berming to buffer adjacent homes; he also noted a planning commission recommendation for screening along the south property line.
Chad Schumacher, director of operations with the Cedar Rapids Community School District, said keeping the existing school open while building the new facility is a priority for students and families and that the district will continue meeting with neighbors to present screening and site options.
Council discussion focused on two questions: whether a school should remain on the site and whether unresolved site design issues merit tabling the rezoning. Council member Tyler Olson moved to approve the ordinance on first reading; the motion was seconded by Council member Hager and carried. Council members Van Orty and Poe voted no. City staff and the district were asked to continue neighborhood engagement and to report back before subsequent readings; staff noted that a second and third reading could occur on July 22.
What’s next: The rezoning passed first reading and will return to council for additional readings; the district and staff said they will continue discussions with neighbors about setbacks, screening and construction staging.
