COUNCIL ACTION FORM

REQUESTS FROM AMES REGIONAL ECONOMIC ALLIANCE FOR CAMPUSTOWN COCOA CRAWL ON DECEMBER 4, 2026

Ames Regional Economic Alliance (AREA) is planning to host the Campustown Cocoa Crawl on Friday, December 4, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The Campustown Cocoa Crawl is an opportunity for attendees to sample hot cocoa in the businesses within the Campustown Business District. This is a promotional event to showcase the businesses in Campustown.

In addition to hot cocoa, organizers will set up a smores station in Campustown Lot Y and the adjacent portion of Chamberlain Street which will include three fire pits. The Fire Department has reviewed the use of the fire pits, which will be in compliance with the City's outdoor fire code. A live musician will also be performing in Campustown Court. The event is free and open to the public. In order to facilitate this event, AREA has requested approval for the following:

• Blanket Temporary Obstruction Permit for the Campustown Business District from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
  
• Blanket Vending License for the Campustown Business District from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and waiver of fee ($50 loss to City Clerk’s Office)
  
• Use of electricity in Campustown Court and waiver of fees for electricity
• Closure of Campustown Lot Y and adjacent portion of Chamberlain Street from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., including closure of 19 metered parking spaces, and waiver of metered parking fees ($38 loss to the Parking Fund)

The City Council's policy regarding parking fees is that requests to waive parking meter fees in an area that is less than district-wide may be considered by the City Council on a case-by-case basis. 

Event organizers will notify affected residents and businesses by going door-to-door with event information, placing signs in the area prior to the event, and distributing details via email. 

1. Approve the requests for the Campustown Cocoa Crawl, including the waiver of fees.
   
   
2. Approve the requests for the Campustown Cocoa Crawl, but require reimbursement of the lost parking meter and Vending License fees.
   
   
3. Deny the requests. 

The Campustown Cocoa Crawl adds vitality to Campustown by encouraging repeat visits to Campustown establishments and increasing foot traffic in the area, benefitting businesses in the area. The event organizers have experience hosting many other events throughout the year. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt Alternative No. 1, as noted above.