HomeMy WebLinkAboutDowntown Development Authority - Minutes - 07/01/1999ddaD&VTOWN �
DEVELOPMENT
AUTHORITY
19 OLD TOWN SQUARE, SUITE 230
FORT COLLINS, CO 80524
Mary Brayton, Chair 484-1401 (W)
Chuck Wanner, Council Liaison 484-0810 (H)
Anne Garrison, Staff Liaison 484-2020 (W)
DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Regular Directors' Meefing
MINUTES OF JULY 1, 1999
Telephone (970) 484-2020
Telefax (970) 484-2069
REGULAR MEETING
The Board of Directors of the Downtown Development Authority met in
regular session at 7:30 a.m. on July 1, 1999 in the conference Room at Home
State Bank, 303 East Mountain Avenue.
PRESENT
There were present
Mary Brayton, Chair
Larry Stroud, Vice Chair
Jason Meadors, Secretary/Treasurer
Steve Slezak
John Pitner
Greg Belcher
Margaret Brown
Carey Hewitt
Chuck Wanner
STAFF
Jay Hardy, Executive Director
Anne Garrison
Lucia Uley, Legal Counsel
GUESTS
Kermit Allard, John Fischbach, Alan Krchmadk, Timothy Wilder, Angela
Milewski, Per Hagestad, Kyle Henley, David Short, Leo Wojtan, Bill Stashak,
Gary Atkin, Steve Steinach
CALL TO ORDER
Ms. Brayton called the meeting to order at 7:30 a.m. and roll call was taken.
A warm welcome was extended to newly appointed Directors Carey
Hewitt and Greg Belcher. This was followed by the presentation of a
certificate of appreciation to Kermit Allard, former Chair of the DDA.
APPROVAL OF
Mr. Belcher moved to adopt the minutes of June 3, 1999 as written,
MINUTES
this was seconded by Mr. Stroud and carried unanimously.
•
DDA MINUTES
PAGE
Ll
POUDRE RIVER In April 1998, Timothy Wilder appeared before the Board to identify issues,
CORRIDOR and obtain input for the Downtown River Corridor Implementation
Program. Some of the concerns raised at that time were the flood plain
issue, and how to work around several existing projects.
In the discussion which ensued, Mr. Wilder fielded questions and responded
to the following:
• Identifying sites in the flood plain
• Discussed connecting some of fhe existing natural habitats along the river
• Areas where the natural course of the river flowed prior to its diversion in
the 1950's and the implications
• Protecting areas from flooding, possibly by building a levy
• Parking issues
Mr. Wilder referred the Board to the packets which contained lists of
implementations and strategies. He stated he hopes to be the recipient of
some grants; stormwater would be handled through fees, and he posed the
question as to who should take the lead, the City or another organization?
In closing, W. Wilder noted that DDA was already represented at the
floodploin meetings, but he encouraged even greater participation, and
Mr. slezok volunteered to serve in this capacity. Ms. Brown suggested the
Board meet to set priorities to determine funding possibilities, and Mr. Wilder
asked that he be permitted to return on a regular basis to provide updates,
and engage in discussions with the Board.
ARMORY BUILDING Landmark Preservation Commission representatives, together with Mr.
Wanner excused themselves from this portion of the meeting. Mr. Hardy
then introduced the project, noting the Landmark Preservation Commission
guidelines which were outlined in 1994, when consideration was first given
to renovating this building. Several team members of owner, Terry Hamilton
were in attendance and assisted with the presentation.
One of the points offered was that the building's historic significance lies
in that it had originally been an arms warehouse, and could be
restored, architecturally, to its 1907 appearance.
Mr. Slezak recalled that when the project was brought to DDA by Cozzola's
Pizza, the Board allocated a significant amount towards its restoration. He
stated that the windows were an issue at that time also. In fact it was this
project which had led the DDA and LPC to work more closely together and
provide representation at meetings. Comments/suggestions were as
follows:
• That DDA facilitate a meeting between the LPC and ownership groups
• The Board was reminded of its mission to restore blighted areas and open
up an attractive corridor to the river.
• Studies have shown that a restaurant is the highest and best use of this
building.
Mr. Slezak then made a motion that the Board instruct the Executive
Director to give this project his closest attention, attend all relevant
meetings and convince everyone of the importance of this project.
The motion was seconded by Mr. Belcher and carried unanimously.
.DDA MINUTES
PAGE
RENEWAL OF PROJECT Mr. Belcher excused himself from participation due to a conflict of
COMMITMENT interest.
Mr. Hardy explained that the project commitment on the Trolley Station was
awarded on June 4, 1998 with a twelve month window. Since that period
has expired, funds need to be recommitted if this is to go forward. The
demolition of the gas station will take place on July 6, and the foundation
will be dug immediately following that time. At this juncture, Mr. Meadors
moved to recommit funds, this was seconded by Mr. Stroud and carried
unanimously.
BASEBALL STADIUM At the June Board Meeting, $5,000 was committed for a site analysis of six
viable locations, which are as follows:
• Block #33 (Downtown site)
• Oxbow (River site)
• Link-n-Greens
• North Side Community Center
• Triangle (Alliance site)
• Lincoln & Lemay Comer (across from Buffalo Run Apartments)
Mr. Hardy now provided a visual presentation of these sites, offering the
pro's and con's in each case. Mr. Fischbach, in turn, presented some
concerns as they related to the City Master Plan and other issues, all of
which were discussed in detail.
LPC UPDATE Angela Milewski said there were no updates at this time, and again
explained that LPC had requested that its people not participate in any
discussion relating to the Armory Building.
REMINGTON Some months ago, the Board awarded $15,000, as requested by Ron Phillips
PARKING STRUCTURE of the Transportation Department, to fund a structural engineering study of
the old parking garage on East Mountain Avenue. The bid has come in
$2,000 over that figure, and a request has been made to increase the
original amount. However, the funding for the survey stands at $15,000.
HORTICULTURAL CENTER This continues to be an issue of great import to the DDA, however, its original
resolution stands, that the $300,000 allocated for its development is with
the provision that the center be built in the downtown area.
MISSION STATEMENT It would seem appropriate that a sub -committee be formed to review
the mission of the DDA and to determine priorities. Chuck Wanner, Larry
Stroud and Meg Brown. Kermit Allard volunteered to represent an outsider's
viewpoint on the committee.
ADJOURN There being no further discussion, the meeting adjourned at 10:00 a.m.
Jason Meadors, Secretary
ddaDAWMOWN �
DEVELOPMENT
AUTHORITY
19 OLD TOWN SQUARE, SUITE 230
FORT COLLINS, CO 80524
To: DDA Board of Directors
From: Jay Hardy
Date: August 5, 1999
RE: Huckleberry's Patio
Telephone (970) 484-2020
Telefax (970) 484-2069
In June, Huckleberry's (the Kiosk in Old Town Square) installed a patio fencing adjacent
to the south side of the kiosk: During this construction I asked the business owner, Betsy
Markey about DDA approval of this patio. She was unaware of the need to obtain formal
approval from the Authority. Ms. Markey had obtained all other necessary approvals,
except DDA.
The patio is in place; therefore the Board needs to determine its direction on this issue. I
recommend we formalize an agreement between the property owner (Old Town Square),
the DDA, and the business owner. The patio serves a similar purpose to the plaza as do
the other patios. I also suggest this project fall under the same patio -licensing scenario
due to take effect in January 2000.
f f ►'y'k
13 OU'rowwSquare, * For'tCoUirus, Co- 80524 * 970-221-0577
June 28, 1999
Jay Hardy
Executive Director
Downtown Development Authority
19 Old Town Square
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Dear Jay:
I'd like to take this opportunity to clarify some issues regarding the outside seating I
installed around my store, Huckleberry's, 13 Old Town Square.
In the spring of 1998, I discussed the possibility of installing a railing on the west side of
my store with Old Town Square Properties. The project would be mutually beneficial: it would
eliminate what was then a constant hangout for kids, and would provide outside seating for my
customers. I asked Ed Stoner if there was a possibility that Old Town Square Properties would
pay part of the cost since it was a benefit for both of us. I was told that wasn't possible, however,
they did help me get estimates for doing the project.
I also spoke with the Police and Fire Departments, who were both supportive of this as a
way to get some of the kids out of that area. I contacted the City and on October 8, 1998,
received a "Revocable Permit for Encroachment in the Public Right -of -Way." My recollection is
that Ed Stoner discussed the plan with Chip Steiner, then Executvie Director of the DDA. I had
the first railing installed on October 31, 1998, by A Plus Welding at a cost to me of $832.
Early this year I discussed with Ed Stoner the possibility of installing another railing, this
time on the east side of my store. I again contacted the City for a Right -of -Way Permit, spoke
with the Fire Department and Police, and contacted the firm that sets -up the Thursday night
concerts. I failed to ask for DDA approval, not out of any malicious intent, but as an oversight on
my part. I was not aware there was a formal approval process, even though it was in my best
interest to follow it.
Thinking I had covered all bases, I had my second railing installed on May 12, 1998, by A
Plus Welding at a cost of $982.
I apologize for not getting prior approval from the DDA. I do think that my outside
seating enhances the Square and has eliminated an area that was once a hangout. In fact, the first
railing was vandalized three times the month after it was installed. However, I have received very
positive comments from all the other tenants in the Square.
Please contact me at 490-2216 if you have any other questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
�ILI�
Betsyarkky
Owner
Enclosures
cc. Ed Stoner
Old Town Square Properties
DdWNTOWN 0
DEVELOPMENT
AUTHORITY
19 OLD TOWN SQUARE, SUITE 230
FORT COLLINS, CO 80524
To: DDA Board of Directors
From: Jay Hardy
Date: August 5, 1999
RE: Joint Office Building
Telephone (970) 484-2020
Telefax (970) 484-2069
In recent years, periodic discussion of a joint office building has occurred with `business
related' entities currently located in Downtown Fort Collins. These entities could include
DDA, Chamber of Commerce, DBA, Fort Collins Economic Development Corp., as well
as others.
The aforementioned entities met recently to determine if there was enough reason to
pursue this idea With all four parties expressing interest, I submit the concept to the
Board for discussion today.
The desired structure might be the renovation of an existing building (if one met the
parameters of all parties) or new construction. Leasing collective space has also been
discussed. Size of the project could be as large as 10,000 SF, with a cost of up to $1.5
million. One concept might be to have DDA own and finance the building, with the other
entities as tenants. Over time, this would be less expensive for all entities, while offering
a "business campus" location for those involved.
As the concept continues to gain momentum, the Board may wish to consider whether
this is a valid direction to take. The idea offers a great deal to the community and
downtown as a whole. Additionally, owning this facility would allow DDA to have an
asset to continue to build on.
ddooaWNToWN •
DEVELOPMENT
AUTHORITY
19 OLD TOWN SQUARE, SUITE 230
FORT COLLINS, CO 80524
To: DDA Board of Directors
From: Jay Hardy
Date: August 5, 1999
RE: Riverfest Sponsorship
Telephone (970) 484-2020
Telefax (970) 484-2069
The Poudre River Trust is hosting Riverfest again this year, and has requested the
Authority to be a sponsor of the event. The cost of sponsorship is $500, and offers an
opportunity to display information about DDA (projects past and present) as well as be
recognized for its sponsorship through various marketing channels.
As DDA continues to work with the River community and we continually request support
from these groups, it makes sense to reciprocate, while at the same time marketing the
successes of DDA.
Please see attached request letter.
PRT "Raver Jam"
9/18/99 6:34m • ?
Lincoln Center Canyon West Room
Preliminary Outline
Purpose: Presentation of RiverFest Sponsor plaques and Gene Mitchell
Award. Recognition will also be given to event sponsors.
Theme: 0elebration of the benefits of RiverFest.
Attendees: Recipients of the recognition, sponsors and general public. Principal
demographics will include males and females 21 -49 years of age regularly
engaged in outdoor sports and adventures.
Fare: Buffet -style hors d'oeuvres & desserts (catered); Beer, wine and soda
(donated); Water
Admission: $10; RiverFest & event sponsors receive 5 free tickets. Tickets
will be sold by PRT Board Members and available at the
FC Chamber office,
Projected Overhead: $5,000 based on 260.800 attendees
.went Sponsorship: 10 sponsors will be asked to contribute $500 to PRT, in
return, sponsors will be provided a 8 foot table along the
perimeter of the room to set-up an appropriate display,
Politically motivated themes will not be allowed.
Additional sponsors will be solicited for Door Prizes.
Other Exhibits: Roan will be available for 5 exhibitors from the RiverFest
event. These will be educational/informational oriented.
Agenda: Open bar with DeeJay entertainment (oldies/70's & Sur, party
tunes) throughout the evening. A 20 minute program starting at
7:30.p.m. will highlight the accomplishments of RiverFest as well
as presentation of awards. Door Prize drawings will be interspersed
throughout.
PRT Responsibilities: Solicitation of sponsorships/door prizes, food and
beverage catering, plaques & awards, ticket sales,
registration, advertisement & promotion.
Event Coordinator: All About Events - Cori Schrader (970) 227.6277
oaWNTOWN •
dda DEVELOPMENT
AUTHORITY
19 OLD TOWN SQUARE, SUITE 230
FORT COLLINS, CO 80524
To: DDA Board of Directors
From: Jay Hardy
Date: August 5, 1999
RE: Poudre River Committee
Telephone (970) 484-2020
Telefox (970) 484-2069
In reference to the presentation last month by Timothy Wilder of the City Planning
office, DDA has been asked to ascertain what it determines are the priorities, direction
and support needed to see this program go forward.
I suggest a sub -committee meet to review all relevant information during the month of
August, and bring a formal recommendation to the Board in September. This
information will then be a part of the recommendation to City Council in late September
1999.
AWNTOWN •
dda
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORIN
19 OLD TOWN SQUARE, SUITE 230
FORT COLLINS, CO 80524
To: DDA Board of Directors
From: Jay Hardy
Date: August 5, 1999
RE: DDA Project Analysis Process
Telephone (970) 484-2020
Telefax (970) 484-2069
In response to the Board's request to formulate a committee to review the Project
Analysis Process, the committee has met and offer the following recommendations:
Policy Change
1. In the future, DDA will take perpetual easement on all facades.
Project Analysis Process Proposal
1. DDA would review projects on a quarterly basis in an effort to compare projects
for significance and value.
2. DDA staff will meet with, and provide to the community and Board of Directors
an annual budget of funds available for projects at the beginning of each fiscal
year. A `pre -application' period will be held during January and February to
provide prelinimary information on upcoming projects. This process will not
preclude applications from consideration at other times during the year.
3. DDA staff will conduct an initial evaluation of each project based on the
following criteria, with attention being given to the priorities determined:
Evaluation Criteria (By Priority)
1. Unoccupied building or space
2. Significance on the downtown community, does it meet a specific need for
downtown?
3. Visibility of project
4. New economic spin-off (what will it add to downtown?)
5. Historical significance of building
6. Type of project (commercial vs. housing)
7. Effect on parking
8. Cost of project compared to `normal' construction
9. Amount of owner investment relative to overall cost
10. Will project occur without the DDA?
It is my recommendation that this proposal be discussed relative to the evaluation criteria,
and the quarterly review process.
AWNTOWN 0
DEVELOPMENT
AUTHORITY
19 OLD TOWN SQUARE, SUITE 230 Telephone (970) 484-2020
FORT COLLINS, CO 80524 Telefax (970) 484-2069
To: DDA Board of Directors
From Jay Hardy
Date: August 5, 1999
RE: Baseball Stadium Update, Site Analysis
At our meeting in July, the Board was presented with six potential sites and layouts for a
proposed multi -use baseball stadium in the downtown area. Over the past month, staff
has finished the majority of the work related to these sites and presents this report,
inclusive of the site analysis matrix for your review. A brief overview of the findings of
each site is as follows:
Northside Aztlan Community Center (87)
This site scored 87 and separated itself as the highest candidate for many reasons.
Located inside the DDA boundaries, this location accomplishes many of the DDA
objectives. Serving as a catalyst for new re -development, appropriate development along
the River, and site configurations surfaced as major strengths. In the neighborhood
impact category, there would be very minimal impact.
Additionally, the City of Fort Collins has been contacted about the possibility of jointly
building this facility with the new Northside Center. Although this will take a lot of work
with the Public -Private relationship, it has been received by the City as a positive
opportunity. We are still discussing this concept with many other City officials. This
partnership would require some adjustment to the current timing and cost of the
Northside project, which is slated to begin funding in 2004.
Possible problems associated with the site are the timing of the project, building on a
landfill and its potential issues, size for both projects, and identifying on -site parking.
Link-n-Greens (61)
This site has the most potential for field orientation as well as limited anticipated
opposition. However, this site as well as the Lincohi/Lemay corner would require all on
site parking as well as the distance from downtown being greater.
The current option of this land would allow for a section of the stadium, however, the
project would extend into a second property owner's land, which is not willing to sell.
E
New residential buildings near the site could offer opposition, as well as many of the
same elements which Wal*Mart has faced.
River Oxbow (59)
The most controversial site in the process is the River Oxbow. Although many of DDA's
missions could be accomplished, the probability of this site is minimal. Desire on behalf
of the property owner as well as formulated opposition to the site present major obstacles.
Additionally, the floodway/floodplain issues for this she are substantial. A total scoring
of 59 places this site tied with the Triangle, relative to the other locations.
Trian¢le (Alliance Construction) (59)
The second highest scoring location, the Triangle could offer many different elements to
the project. However, proximity to the River is extremely tight, in addition to the need
for moving three businesses has presented problems. Although the property owners are
willing, finding a replacement she has been unsuccessful.
Block 33 (58)
This site scored a total of 58, with major issues stemming from the cost of land
(estimated $3 million) to neighborhood impact. However, more importantly, City Staff
expressed concern regarding the plans for housing on this site. Many agreed a baseball
stadium would not be the best use for this land. Site configurations related to the
elimination of a downtown street, as well as proximity to the railroad tracks were of
concern
This property has portions, which exist in the floodway, and the majority of the
remainder is in the floodplain. Neighborhood concerns could also be a major obstacle.
Lincole/Lemav Comer (54)
The furthest site from downtown, this corner is high priced, requires all on -site parking,
and may not offer additional opportunity for development. The possible economic sphn-
off for this site is minimal, being, a destination location Additionally, the property is not
currently in the Authority's district.
Summary
Based on the criteria in the site analysis matrix, the only feasible site, which has been
reviewed for this project, is the Northside site. Although each of the other sites offer
different assets, the probability of working out all issues and costs in the necessary
timeline is highly unlikely.
I recommend we continue to explore the Northside site with the City, while attempting to
identify any new sites, which warrant analysis. Although this project could be a
tremendous asset for our community, it is crucial the DDA remain focused on the overall
mission of the organization and not just the project. In summary, our research identifies
Northside as the only feasible option to pursue further of the six analyzed.
4
*WNTOWN 0
DEVELOPMENT
AUTHORITY
19 OLD TOWN SQUARE, SUITE 230
FORT COLLINS, CO 80524
August 2, 1999
The Honorable Mayor Martinez,
Members of City Council
PO Box 580
Fort Collins, CO 80522
Dear Mayor Martinez:
Telephone (970) 484-2020
Telefax (970) 484-2069
The Downtown Development Authority wishes to reiterate its ongoing interest as expressed by the
Board of Directors in its Resolution #98-6, executed on August 6, 1998. In addition, The Authority
refers to its letter of April 22, 1999 in which it urged the City to uphold its original decision to build a
community Horticultural Center in a downtown setting.
In this regard, the Authority continues to stand firm in its desire to locate this cultural, educational
and recreational facility to the downtown area, and remains committed to funding the project
in the amount of $300,000. Projects such as the Horticultural Center bear out the mission of the
DDA to promote and expand facilities which reinforce Downtown as a center for cultural and
educational pursuits.
The value and significance of such a facility in this community cannot be underestimated, and
therefore the Board respectfully urges every consideration be afforded a downtown location.
Sincerely,
Mary J. Brayton, Chair
Downtown Development Authority
Aft: Resolution #98-6
Jay b brdy, Exejcu1iYe irector
Downtown Development Authority
RESOLUTION 98-6
OF THE FORT COLLINS, COLORADO
DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
AUTHORIZING THE EXPENDITURE OF
$3009000 TOWARD THE DEVELOPMENT
OF A COMMUNITY HORTICULTURAL CENTER
WHEREAS, the Fort Collins Downtown Development Authority has been duly
organized in accordance with the Colorado Revised Statutes 31-25-804, 1973, as
amended; and,
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the Downtown Development Authority has
considered a proposal for the development of a City of Fort Collins Community
Horticultural Center; and,
WHEREAS, the Board finds such a facility to meet the purposes and objectives of
the Fort Collins Downtown Development Authority and would be of significant benefit to
the central business district; and,
WHEREAS, The Board of Directors finds the Community Horticultural Center to
be in accordance with City Plan Principles and Policies Principle DD-2: Promote and
expand facilities that reinforce the Downtown as the center for cultural, recreation,
and entertainment in the community and region and expand educational
opportunities in the Downtown."
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OF THE FORT COLLINS, COLORADO DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT
AUTHORITY that it hereby authorizes the expenditure of $300,000 toward the
development of a Community Horticultural Center subject to the following conditions:
1. The Community Horticultural Center is built within the existing
Downtown Development Authority district or is annexed into the
Downtown Development Authority district prior to construction;
2. That the location within the Downtown Development Authority district is
found to be acceptable by the Board of Directors;
3. That a Downtown Development Authority expenditure of $300,000 for a
Community Horticultural Center is approved by the Fort Collins City
Council.
Passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the Board of Directors of the Fort
Collins, Colorado Downtown Development Authority, this 6 h day of August, 1998. /
Kermit Allard, Chairman