HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOUNCIL - COMPLETE AGENDA - 01/12/2021 - SPECIAL MEETINGCity of Fort Collins Page 1
Wade Troxell, Mayor Remote Meeting
Ross Cunniff, District 5, Mayor Pro Tem City Hall West
Susan Gutowsky, District 1 300 LaPorte Avenue
Julie Pignataro, District 2 Fort Collins, Colorado
Ken Summers, District 3
Vacant, District 4 Cablecast on FCTV Channel 14
Emily Gorgol, District 6 and Channel 881 on the Comcast cable system
Carrie Daggett Darin Atteberry Delynn Coldiron
City Attorney City Manager City Clerk
Special Meeting
January 12, 2021
6:00 p.m.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION OPTIONS
There will be three options for people who would like to participate in the meeting:
Live via the Zoom online meeting,
Live via the telephone,
By submitting emails to Council at CityLeaders@fcgov.com.
All options will be available for those wishing to provide general public comment, as well as public
comment during individual discussion items.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION (ONLINE VIA ZOOM):
Individuals who wish to address Council via remote public participation can do so through Zoom
at https://zoom.us/j/98241416497. (The link and instructions are also posted
at www.fcgov.com/councilcomments.) Individuals participating in the Zoom session should watch the
meeting through that site, and not via FCTV, due to the streaming delay and possible audio interference.
The Zoom meeting will be available beginning at 5:15 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Participants wanting
to ensure their equipment setup is working should join prior to 6:00 p.m. For public comments, the Mayor
will ask participants to click the “Raise Hand” button to indicate you would like to speak at that time. Staff
will moderate the Zoom session to ensure all participants have an opportunity to address Council.
In order to participate, you must:
Have an internet-enabled smartphone, laptop or computer. Using earphones with a microphone will
greatly improve your audio experience.
Join the Zoom meeting using the link on the front page of the agenda or on the City’s home webpage
at www.fcgov.com.
If you use the City’s home page, simply click on the “Participate remotely in Council Meeting” link
shown near the top of the page.
City of Fort Collins Page 2
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION (VIA PHONE):
Dial the public participation phone number, 1-346-248-7799, and then enter the Meeting ID 982 4141
6497 followed by the pound sign (#).
The meeting will be available beginning at 5:15 p.m. Please call in to the meeting prior to 6:00 p.m., if
possible. For public comments, the Mayor will ask participants to indicate if you would like to speak at
that time – phone participants will need to press *9 to do this. Staff will be moderating the Zoom
session to ensure all participants have an opportunity to address Council.
When participating online or by phone, DO NOT Watch/stream FCTV at the same time due to streaming
delay and possible audio interference.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION (VIA EMAIL):
Individuals not comfortable or able to access the Zoom platform or participate by phone are encouraged to
participate by emailing general public comments to CityLeaders@fcgov.com. If you have specific
comments on any of the discussion items scheduled, please make that clear in the subject line of the email
and send prior to the meeting Tuesday evening.
WATCH THE MEETING
Anyone can view the Council meeting live on Channels 14 and 881 or online at www.fcgov.com/fctv.
Note: Only individuals who wish to address Council should use the Zoom link or call in by phone.
Anyone who wants to watch the meeting, but not address Council, should view the FCTV livestream.
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be emailed those materials by 4 p.m. the day of the meeting.
Persons wishing to display presentation materials using the City’s display equipment under the Citizen
Participation portion of a meeting or during discussion of any Council item must provide any such materials
to the City Clerk in a form or format readily usable on the City’s display technology no later than two (2)
hours prior to the beginning of the meeting at which the materials are to be presented.
NOTE: All presentation materials for appeals, addition of permitted use applications or protests related to
election matters must be provided to the City Clerk no later than noon on the day of the meeting at which
the item will be considered. See Council Rules of Conduct in Meetings for details.
Upon request, the City of Fort Collins will provide language access services for individuals who have limited
English proficiency, or auxiliary aids and services for individuals with disabilities, to access City services,
programs and activities. Contact 221-6515 (V/TDD: Dial 711 for Relay Colorado) for assistance. Please
provide 48 hours advance notice when possible.
A solicitud, la Ciudad de Fort Collins proporcionará servicios de acceso a idiomas para personas que no
dominan el idioma inglés, o ayudas y servicios auxiliares para personas con discapacidad, para que
puedan acceder a los servicios, programas y actividades de la Ciudad. Para asistencia, llame al 221-6515
(V/TDD: Marque 711 para Relay Colorado). Por favor proporcione 48 horas de aviso previo cuando sea
posible.
City of Fort Collins Page 3
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
Discussion Items
The method of debate for discussion items is as follows:
●Mayor introduces the item number, and subject; asks if formal presentation will be made by
staff
●Staff presentation (optional)
●Mayor requests citizen comment on the item (three minute limit for each citizen)
●Council questions of staff on the item
●Council motion on the item
●Council discussion
●Final Council comments
●Council vote on the item
Note: Time limits for individual agenda items may be revised, at the discretion of the Mayor, to
ensure all citizens have an opportunity to speak. If attending in person, please sign in at
the table in the back of the room. The timer will buzz when there are 30 seconds left and
the light will turn yellow. It will buzz again at the end of the speaker’s time.
1.Items Relating to a Small Business Relief Program to be Administered and Distributed by the City's
Economic Health Office in Cooperation with Larimer County.
A. Resolution 2021-006 Authorizing an Intergovernmental Agreement Between the City and Larimer
County for Funding and Administration of a Small Business Relief Program.
B. First Reading of Ordinance No. 017, 2021, Appropriating Unanticipated Revenue in the General
Fund for a Small Business Relief Program to be Administered and Distributed by the Economic
Health Office.
The purpose of this item is for Council to consider an ordinance appropriating unanticipated revenue
to operate a Small Business Relief program and a resolution authorizing a related agreement
describing the administration and distribution of the funds with Larimer County. The Colorado
legislature, in special session in December, passed Senate Bill 20B-001 (SB20B-001) setting aside
over $37 million for direct relief payments to small businesses located in eligible Counties, which
businesses include restaurants, bars, movie theaters, and fitness and recreational sports centers.
2. Resolution 2021-007 Making an Appointment to Fill a Vacancy for Councilmember for District 4 on the
Fort Collins Council.
The purpose of this item is for Council to make an appointment to fill the vacant District 4 Council seat.
Mayor Pro Tem Kristin Stephens tendered her resignation from the Council effective December 31,
2020, as a result of her recent election to the office of Larimer County Commissioner.
ADJOURNMENT
Agenda Item 1
Item # 1 Page 1
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY January 12, 2021
City Council
STAFF
Josh Birks, Economic Health Director
Ingrid Decker, Legal
SUBJECT
Items Relating to a Small Business Relief Program to be Administered and Distributed by the City's Economic
Health Office in Cooperation with Larimer County.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
A. Resolution 2021-006, Authorizing an Intergovernmental Agreement Between the City and Larimer
County for Funding and Administration of a Small Business Relief Program.
B. First Reading of Ordinance No. 017, 2021, Appropriating Unanticipated Revenue in the General Fund
for a Small Business Relief Program to be Administered and Distributed by the Economic Health
Office.
The purpose of this item is for Council to consider an ordinance appropriating unanticipated revenue to operate
a Small Business Relief program and a resolution authorizing a related agreement describing the
administration and distribution of the funds with Larimer County. The Colorado legislature, in special session in
December, passed Senate Bill 20B-001 (SB20B-001) setting aside over $37 million for direct relief payments
to small businesses located in eligible Counties, which businesses include restaurants, bars, movie theaters,
and fitness and recreational sports centers.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends adoption of the Resolution and Ordinance on First Reading.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION
The Colorado General Assembly as part of a special session in December 2020 approved Senate Bill 20B-001
(“SB20B-001”) authorizing monetary relief for small and minority businesses as well as arts organizations.
SB20B-001 provides $37 million for direct relief payments to small businesses located in a county that is
subject to, and in compliance with, severe capacity restrictions pursuant to a public health order, with
payments allocated to the counties for distribution to eligible small businesses, which businesses include
restaurants, bars, movie theaters, and fitness and recreational sports centers. Larimer County is eligible and
submitted the required application for consideration of allocation on January 4, 2021.
To ensure efficient and timely disbursement of the funds, Larimer County (“County”) has requested that the
City of Loveland, Town of Estes Park, and City of Fort Collins (City) each act as a “hub” to distribute funds to
their community, adjacent communities, and adjacent portions of unincorporated county. The County’s chosen
approach means that the City will receive unanticipated revenue to distribute and administer a Small Business
Relief (SBR) program for its defined “hub” geography. The Ordinance appropriates the unanticipated revenue
and the Resolution authorizes the execution of an agreement defining the City’s duties and terms of operation
as a “hub.”
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Agenda Item 1
Item # 1 Page 2
The Economic Health Office (EHO) will lead this activity for the Fort Collins “hub.” Currently, a draft of the
Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) between the City and County is not available. However, the key terms of
the proposed agreement will generally be as follows, with more specific agreement language to be developed
after further legal review and refinement:
• Larimer County will distribute funds to each of the hubs based on the number of applications received and
processed by the hub for the SBR.
• Larimer County will pass through 4.5 percent of the allowable 5.0 percent Administrative Costs to each hub
for program administration. The 4.5 percent will be based on the total funding provided to each hub as
described above.
• The SBR application dates for Larimer County will be Wednesday, January 6, 2020 through close of
business on Wednesday, January 27, 2020 for a total of 22 days.
• Representatives from the three hubs and the County will meet Friday, January 29, 2021 to review the
number of eligible applications and determine relief fund amounts for the three relief tiers (as outlined in
the legislation). The goal is to provide each eligible business with the same amount of relief payment
(within their relief tier) and to provide a consistent approach among the three hubs.
• All three hubs will use the same application, collect the same documentation, and the same online grant
management system.
• Hubs are encouraged to retain applications that do not meet SBR eligibility but may have valid needs for
SBR-like assistance if additional funds become available through other sources.
• The Fort Collins hub would consist of Fort Collins, LaPorte, Livermore, Red Feather Lakes, Wellington,
and Timnath (within Larimer County), as well as businesses in the unincorporated areas of the County
around or between those communities. However, the geographic boundaries of the hubs need not be
precise, as the applications from all three hubs will be considered as one pool and funding divided evenly
regardless of which hub a business applied to.
Based on preliminary estimates of available funds, the Ordinance appropriates the final award amount, up to
$1.5 million, in unanticipated revenue from the County for the SBR. The city may use up to 4.5 percent of
these funds for administrative costs, including staff time, online grant management software, communications
and marketing, and other program related expenses.
Overview of SB20B-001:
Below is a brief overview of the SB20B-001:
• $37 million apportioned for direct relief payments to small businesses within a limited set of industries.
• Counties must apply by January 8, 2021 to receive an allocation of available money.
• Up to 5% percent may be allocated for administrative costs.
• Payment maximums:
o Revenue less than $500,000 - up to $3,500 in assistance
o Revenue of $500,000 up to $1.0 million - up to $5,000 in assistance
o Revenue of $1.0 million up to $2.5 million - up to $7,000 in assistance
• County must be under “severe” capacity restrictions as of December 31, 2020 (Level Red or greater) with
those restrictions in effect since at least December 10, 2020 (Larimer County is eligible).
• Eligible industries include restaurants, bars, breweries, caterers (including food trucks), movie theaters,
fitness (gyms), and recreation sports centers (further details in the bill).
• Additional business eligibility requirements:
o Can provide current State license verifying legal operation in Colorado;
o Headquarters must be in Colorado;
o Demonstrate at least 20 percent revenue loss since March 26, 2020 (except businesses that began
operations between January 1 and March 26, 2020);
o Must have less than $2.5 million in revenue for 2019 and 2020 calendar year;
o Have at least one full-time employee except sole proprietorship;
o Began operating before March 26, 2020; and
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Agenda Item 1
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o Must comply with public health orders.
• All funds must be distributed no later than February 12, 2021.
CITY FINANCIAL IMPACTS
City resources would increase by up to $1.5 million. These funds would be appropriated in the General Fund
and disbursed in defined amounts to eligible and certified small businesses meeting the requirements of the
SBR. Additionally, the City can use up to 4.5 percent of the allocated funds to offset administrative costs.
Therefore, the net effect to the City’s budget will be zero.
BOARD / COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
Small Business relief and recovery support is a priority of the Economic Advisory Commission (EAC), but no
formal recommendation was sought for appropriation of these unanticipated revenues.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Powerpoint Presentation (PDF)
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01.12.2020
Small Business Relief: Appropriation & Agreement
Josh Birks
ATTACHMENT 1 1.1
Packet Pg. 7 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9868 : Small Business Relief Fund)
Council Action
Council is being asked to consider:
1.A R esolution Authorizing an Intergovernmental Agreement between
the City and Larimer County for Funding and Administration of a
Small Business Relief (SBR) Program
2.First Reading of an Ordinance Appropriating Unanticipated Revenue
in the General Fund for a Small Business Relief Program to be
Administered and Distributed by the Economic Health Office
2
1.1
Packet Pg. 8 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9868 : Small Business Relief Fund)
Overview of Funding Source
Colorado General Assembly
passed SB20B-001:
•Provides $37 million for direct
relief payments to small
businesses
•Counties must apply, can use
existing or new partnerships to
distribute
•County requested support of
municipalities to distribute funds
•County application is complete
3Bill enables a new Small Busines Relief (SBR) program
1.1
Packet Pg. 9 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9868 : Small Business Relief Fund)
Objectives:
1.Maximize Available
Funds
2.Ensure consistency
across the County
3.Deliver efficient and
rapid deployment of the
SBR
4
1.1
Packet Pg. 10 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9868 : Small Business Relief Fund)
Hub Model
Partners Together:
•County applies for funds &
manages reporting
•Hubs support applicants and
certify eligibility (per Bill)
•County supports Spanish
Language applicants
•All Hubs & County agree on final
payment amount by tier
•Ensures consistent and fair
process for all County businesses
5Fort Collins: LaPorte, Livermore, Red Feather, Timnath & Wellington
1.1
Packet Pg. 11 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9868 : Small Business Relief Fund)
Primary Eligibility Requirements
§Ve rify legal operation in CO
§At least 20 percent revenue loss
since March 26, 2020
§Less than $2.5 million in revenue
(2019 & 2020)
§Have at least 1 employee (except
sole proprietors)
§Began operations prior to March
26, 2020
§In compliance with all public
health orders
6No subjectivity; Applicants eligibility based on documentation
1.1
Packet Pg. 12 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9868 : Small Business Relief Fund)
Key Dates
•1/12 –First Reading on
Ap propriation and Ag reement
Au thorization (Tonight)
•1/15 –State provides allocation
•1/19 –Second Reading on
Appropriation
•1/27 –Business Applications Due
•1/29 –Finalize payment amounts
•2/12 –Al l payments must be
distributed
7Bill requires applications to open for 21 days (1/6 to 1/27)
1.1
Packet Pg. 13 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9868 : Small Business Relief Fund)
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends adoption
of the Resolution and
Ordinance on First Reading
8
1.1
Packet Pg. 14 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9868 : Small Business Relief Fund)
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RESOLUTION 2021-006
OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
AUTHORIZING AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN
THE CITY AND LARIMER COUNTY FOR FUNDING AND ADMINISTRATION
OF A SMALL BUSINESS RELIEF PROGRAM
WHEREAS, the City of Fort Collins is threatened with serious injury and damage,
consisting of widespread human and economic impact caused by the Novel Coronavirus 2019
(COVID-19); and
WHEREAS, on March 13, 2020, in order to undertake emergency measures to protect the
life, health, safety and property of the citizens of the City and persons conducting business therein,
and in order to attempt to minimize the loss of human life and the preservation of property, the
City Manager, as the Director of the City's Office of Emergency Management, proclaimed a “local
emergency” in accordance with Section 2-671(a)(1) of the City Code and activated the Emergency
Operations Plan established pursuant to Section 2-673 of the City Code; and
WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic has had an unexpected and substantial impact on
health risks for City residents, the social structures in the community, the economic wellbeing of
the business community, and the services provided by the City in response; and
WHEREAS, the prevention and management of exposure to COVID-19 and mitigation of
related social, economic, and other impacts of all kinds continue to require emergency action by
the City; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has, with the adoption of Resolution 2020-030, extended the
City Manager's proclamation of local emergency; and
WHEREAS, the State of Colorado declared its first Emergency Disaster Declaration
related to COVID-19 on March 11, 2020; and
WHEREAS, the Colorado General Assembly, as part of a special session in December
2020, approved Senate Bill 20B-001 (“SB20B-001”), authorizing monetary relief for small and
minority businesses as well as arts organizations, which Bill was signed by the Governor on
December 7, 2020; and
WHEREAS, SB20B-001 provides $37 million in state funds for direct relief payments to
small businesses located in a county that is subject to, and in compliance with, severe capacity
restrictions pursuant to a public health order, with payments allocated to the counties for
distribution to eligible small businesses, including restaurants, bars, movie theaters, and fitness
and recreational sports centers; and
WHEREAS, Larimer County (the “County”) is eligible to receive funding and submitted
the required application for consideration of allocation on January 4, 2021; and
WHEREAS, the County has asked the City, the City of Loveland, and Town of Estes
Park to each act as a “hub” to distribute funds to their community, adjacent communities, and
Packet Pg. 15
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adjacent portions of the unincorporated county, which means the City will receive unanticipated
revenue to distribute and administer a Small Business Relief (SBR) program for its defined
“hub” geography; and
WHEREAS, to establish a uniform process for administration of the SBR, the County
intends to enter into a separate intergovernmental agreement (IGA) with each hub; and
WHEREAS, the proposed IGA between the City and the County has not yet been
prepared; however, the IGA will include the following key provisions:
• Larimer County will distribute funds to each of the hubs based on the number of
applications received and processed by the hub for the SBR.
• Larimer County will pass through to the hubs 4.5 percent of the allowable 5 percent the
County allotted for administrative costs for program administration, with the 4.5 percent
based on the total funding provided to each hub as described above.
• The SBR application dates for Larimer County will be Wednesday, January 6, 2020
through close of business on Wednesday, January 27, 2020 for a total of 22 days.
• Representatives from the three hubs and the County will meet Friday, January 29, 2021 to
review the number of eligible applications and determine relief fund amounts for the
three relief tiers (as outlined in the legislation).
• The goal is to provide each eligible business with the same amount of relief payment
(within their relief tier) and to provide a consistent approach among the three hubs.
• All three hubs will use the same application, collect the same documentation, and use the
same online grant management system.
• Hubs are encouraged to retain applications that do not meet SBR eligibility but may have
valid needs for SBR-like assistance if additional funds become available through other
sources.
• The Fort Collins hub would consist of Fort Collins, LaPorte, Livermore, Red Feather
Lakes, Wellington, and Timnath (within Larimer County), as well as businesses in the
unincorporated areas of the County around or between those communities. However, the
geographic boundaries of the hubs need not be precise, as the applications from all three
hubs will be considered as one pool and funding divided evenly regardless of the hub to
which a business has applied; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes Section 29-1-203, governments may
cooperate or contract with one another to provide any function or service lawfully authorized to
each of the cooperating or contracting units of government; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that it is in the best interests of the City that
the City Manager be authorized to execute an IGA between the City and the County in support of
the SBR as described in this Resolution.
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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
FORT COLLINS as follows:
Section 1. That the City Council hereby makes and adopts the determinations and
findings contained in the recitals set forth above.
Section 2. That the City Council hereby authorizes the City Manager to execute an
intergovernmental agreement between the City and the County consistent with this Resolution,
for the purpose of administering a small business assistance program using funds provided by the
State of Colorado pursuant to SB20B-001, including such terms and conditions as the City
Manager, in consultation with the City Attorney, determines to be necessary and appropriate to
protect the interests of the City or further the purposes of this Resolution.
Passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the Council of the City of Fort Collins this
12th day of January, A.D. 2021.
_________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________
City Clerk
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ORDINANCE NO. 017, 2021
OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
APPROPRIATING UNANTICIPATED REVENUE IN THE GENERAL FUND FOR A
SMALL BUSINESS RELIEF PROGRAM TO BE ADMINISTERED AND DISTRIBUTED BY
THE ECONOMIC HEALTH OFFICE
WHEREAS, the City of Fort Collins is threatened with serious injury and damage,
consisting of widespread human and economic impact caused by the Novel Coronavirus 2019
(COVID-19); and
WHEREAS, on March 13, 2020, in order to undertake emergency measures to protect the
life, health, safety and property of the citizens of the City and persons conducting business therein,
and in order to attempt to minimize the loss of human life and the preservation of property, the
City Manager, as the Director of the City's Office of Emergency Management, proclaimed a “local
emergency” in accordance with Section 2-671(a)(1) of the City Code and activated the Emergency
Operations Plan established pursuant to Section 2-673 of the City Code; and
WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic has had an unexpected and substantial impact on
health risks for City residents, the social structures in the community, the economic wellbeing of
the business community, and the services provided by the City in response; and
WHEREAS, the prevention and management of exposure to COVID-19 and mitigation of
related social, economic, and other impacts of all kinds continue to require emergency action by
the City; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has, with the adoption of Resolution 2020-030, extended the
City Manager's proclamation of local emergency; and
WHEREAS, the State of Colorado declared its first Emergency Disaster Declaration
related to COVID-19 on March 11, 2020; and
WHEREAS, the Colorado General Assembly, as part of a special session in December
2020, approved Senate Bill 20B-001 (“SB20B-001”), authorizing monetary relief for small and
minority businesses as well as arts organizations, which Bill was signed by the Governor on
December 7, 2020; and
WHEREAS, SB20B-001 provides $37 million in state funds for direct relief payments to
small businesses located in a county that is subject to, and in compliance with, severe capacity
restrictions pursuant to a public health order, with payments allocated to the counties for
distribution to eligible small businesses, including restaurants, bars, movie theaters, and fitness
and recreational sports centers; and
WHEREAS, Larimer County (the “County”) is eligible to receive funding and submitted
the required application for consideration of allocation on January 4, 2021; and
WHEREAS, the County has asked the City, the City of Loveland, and Town of Estes
Park to each act as a “hub” to distribute funds to their community, adjacent communities, and
adjacent portions of the unincorporated county, which means the City will receive unanticipated
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revenue to distribute and administer a Small Business Relief (SBR) program for its defined
“hub” geography; and
WHEREAS, SB20B-001 requires that all funds be distributed to businesses by no later
than February 12, 2021; and
WHEREAS, the precise amount of funds the City will need to receive, appropriate and
distribute will not be known until January 29, 2021, but in order to meet the February 12
deadline for distribution of funds the City cannot wait until the funding amount is known to
begin the process of appropriating the funds for expenditure; therefore, staff is requesting that the
Council appropriate up to $1.5 million in unanticipated revenue, recognizing that the actual
amount of funds available for appropriation will depend on the amount of funds received from
the County; and
WHEREAS, this appropriation benefits public health, safety and welfare of the citizens
of Fort Collins and serves the public purpose of assisting the overall community recovery from
the COVID-19 pandemic; and
WHEREAS, Article V, Section 9, of the City Charter permits the City Council to make
supplemental appropriations by ordinance at any time during the fiscal year, provided that the
total amount of such supplemental appropriations, in combination with all previous
appropriations for that fiscal year, does not exceed the current estimate of actual and anticipated
revenues to be received during the fiscal year; and
WHEREAS, the City Manager has recommended the appropriation described herein and
determined that this appropriation is available and previously unappropriated from the General
Fund and will not cause the total amount appropriated in the General Fund to exceed the current
estimate of actual and anticipated revenues to be received in that fund during any fiscal year.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
FORT COLLINS as follows:
Section 1. That the City Council hereby makes and adopts the determinations and
findings contained in the recitals set forth above.
Section 2. That there is hereby appropriated upon receipt from unanticipated revenue in
the General Fund the sum of ONE MILLION FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS
($1,500,000), subject to receipt from Larimer County, for distribution by the Economic Health
Office to eligible and certified small businesses as part of the Small Business Relief Program and
for use by the Economic Health Office to offset administrative costs driven by the Program.
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Introduced, considered favorably on first reading, and ordered published this 12th day of
January, A.D. 2021, and to be presented for final passage on the 19th day of January, A.D. 2021.
__________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
City Clerk
Passed and adopted on final reading on the 19th day of January, A.D. 2021.
__________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
City Clerk
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Agenda Item 2
Item # 2 Page 1
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY January 12, 2021
City Council
STAFF
Delynn Coldiron, City Clerk
Carrie Daggett, City Attorney
SUBJECT
Resolution 2021-007 Making an Appointment to Fill a Vacancy for Councilmember for District 4 on the Fort
Collins Council.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this item is for Council to make an appointment to fill the vacant District 4 Council seat. Mayor
Pro Tem Kristin Stephens tendered her resignation from the Council effective December 31, 2020, as a result
of her recent election to the office of Larimer County Commissioner.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends adoption of the Resolution.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION
Council interviewed eight applicants at a Special Meeting on January 6, 2021. The applicants interviewed
included:
• Jessica Dyrdahl
• Erin Hottenstein
• Philip Jensen
• Veronica Olivas
• Shirley Peel
• Melanie Potyondy
• Sidna Rachid
• William Wright
On December 1, 2020, Council adopted Resolution 2020-113 (Attachment 1) establishing the process for
selection and appointment. All efforts have proceeded according to the information contained in the
Resolution. Notice of the interview date of January 6, 2021 was provided to applicants through a series of
emails and phone calls where each applicant was spoken with directly, or a message left.
Public comment is being collected through the following methods:
• Feedback Form on the City’s website
• Emails to Council
• Written letters
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Agenda Item 2
Item # 2 Page 2
Any feedback received through January 6, 2021, including items previously provided is attached. (Attachment
2) Feedback received after January 6, 2021 up until 4:00 p.m. on January 12, 2021, will be provided in read -
before packets on January 12, 2021. The public will also have a chance to provide feedback as part of public
participation at the January 12, 2021 meeting.
The Mayor has indicated that he will ask Council to use a series of motions to focus the selection process, and
then will ask for a motion to adopt the Resolution. The Resolution contains a blank for Council to insert the
appointee’s name.
If no applicant receives a majority vote, Council may wish to postpone the item to a later date for further
consideration. If an appointment is made, the oath of office will be administered to the new appointee
promptly, with a ceremonial swearing in at the regular meeting on January 19, 2021.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Resolution 2020-113 (PDF)
2. Community Feedback on Applicants (PDF)
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Packet Pg. 22
ATTACHMENT 12.1Packet Pg. 23Attachment: Resolution 2020-113 (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
2.1Packet Pg. 24Attachment: Resolution 2020-113 (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
2.1Packet Pg. 25Attachment: Resolution 2020-113 (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Adam Macy
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Support for Shirly Peel - District 4 Vacancy
Date:Tuesday, December 22, 2020 10:33:00 AM
Hello City Council Leaders,
My name is Adam Macy and I would like to express my sincere support for Shirley
Peel for the Fort Collins City Council District 4 vacancy appointment. I have known
Shirley for over 12 years personally and professionally. Shirley has been an active
member of the Fort Collins community for 20 years+. She has served the Fort Collins
community through many aspects including being a teacher (to hundreds of students,
including my own children), a school administrator, a volunteer in local schools, a
mentor to CSU college students, and served on the Larimer County Citizens' Review
Board.
I have personally served with Shirley on a local private school board for the last 2
years. I have seen her serve passionately and with confidence throughout our time
together. She is always open to hearing the opinion of everyone on the board before
she makes her decision. Shirley is a great communicator as she clearly conveys her
thoughts and is gifted in clearly distinguishing the pros and cons on every matter. One
of the things I appreciate most about Shirley is her level of commitment - when she
commits to something she will see it through to the end no matter what. In this day
and age true commitment is a rare find. I would HIGHLY recommend Shirley for
the District 4 vacancy and would be honored to have her represent Fort Collins.
Thank you for your consideration!
Sincerely,
Adam Macy
ATTACHMENT 2 2.2
Packet Pg. 26 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Cherese Macy
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Recommendation for Shirley Peel, District 4 Vacancy
Date:Tuesday, December 22, 2020 3:22:14 PM
City Council Leaders,
I am writing you in support of appointing Shirley Peel for the City Councilperson for District 4
in Fort Collins due to the vacancy left by Kristin Stephens.
I have known Shirley both personally and professionally for two decades and in that time have seen her
exhibit overwhelming qualities of leadership, education, and problem solving strategies. Shirley would be
an enormous asset to the City of Fort Collins in the following ways:
1) Leadership: Shirley is a natural leader. Her likable, yet confident, personality allows her to enter
easily into roles of leadership seamlessly. Those around her hold her in high regard and trust her
judgement in decisions as they know she has processed all the angles of a issue. I have witnessed her
leadership and oversight with school faculty, as a board member making critical decision for a school
and as a mentor for college students, teachers and many others who cross her path.
2) Education: Shirley takes the time on a regular basis to make sure she is well educated
about important issues that impact our community and our world. Taking the extra step to
research, investigate and fact check articles/opinions is her norm. She does not simply go
with the most popular consensus on a topic but instead takes the time to dig deep in order to
discern the truth of a matter.
3) Problem Solver: Shirley is not fearful of problems, but instead is solution oriented about
addressing issues in a way that makes the most sense with immense consideration of the
impact the decision will have on others lives. Shirley is a good listener and makes it a priority
to hear the various sides of an issue before drawing conclusions. Transparency and discussion
are a vital part of Shirley's approach to resolving problems.
Shirley has been an indispensable part of the Fort Collins community since she moved here
two decades ago. Raising up the next generation and building a strong community are her
passions. She never takes a back seat but instead figures out important and creative ways to
make an impact in the lives of her family, friends, and community. The City of Fort Collins
would greatly benefit from appointing Shirley Peel as Councilperson for District 4!
I appreciate your time and consideration in hearing my recommendation for Shirley Peel.
Sincerely,
Cherese Macy
2.2
Packet Pg. 27 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Christine Kieft
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Recommendation for Shirley Peel for City Council
Date:Monday, December 21, 2020 9:16:34 AM
Hello City Council Members,
My name is Christine Kieft I live at 3056 Denver Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80525.
I have lived in Fort Collins for 17 years. I met Shirley about 4 years ago and have a growing
respect for her. She started a Pre-K-8th school and served/ is serving as a teacher/
administrator and board member. This is how I met Shirley, my children attend the amazing
school that she founded. She has a heart for the city as well as wisdom and insight that would
prove as an asset to the council. She is very knowledgeable about current issues facing the
City of Fort Collins and has helped me understand the local political climate in deeper ways.
Shirley has been an active member of the community for 20 years. She raised 4 children who
attended area schools here and have gone on to serve their communities in service jobs. She
has been an educator for 20+ years and volunteers in area schools.Shirley serves on the
Larimer County Citizens' Review Board and is a mentor to CSU College Students.
Thank you for considering Shirley for this position.
--
Christine Kieft
2.2
Packet Pg. 28 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, December 22, 2020 10:42:45 AM
Name
Elizabeth Furuiye
Email
furuiye@mac.com
Phone
Address
2915 Waterstone Court
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I am writing in support of candidate Mrs. Shirley Peel. I have known Shirley for 10 years. She
is an incredibly hard working, wise and morally centered. She is empathetic, a fantastic
listener and a person that you could easily trust to be an advocate for you in time of need. Mrs.
Peel will thoughtfully consider any issue put before her and will ask insightful questions of
any and every side before making decisions. She is exactly what is needed to complement the
present City Council membership, and I strongly support her. Thank you for your time and
consideration.
2.2
Packet Pg. 29 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Elizabeth Simons
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Endorsing Erin Hottenstein for City Council
Date:Tuesday, December 22, 2020 1:24:19 PM
Hello,
As a lifelong Fort Collins community member, I would like to endorse Erin Hottenstein for
city council.
I think she is a great choice to represent the people of Fort Collins, as she is dedicated to social
justice and equity, as well as transparency and accountability. Her background in journalism
and communications equips her well for working with others and with the community
members she will be serving. She demonstrated her drive to serve the wider community when
she started Colorado 50-50, a project to encourage women to run for public office.
Please select Erin Hottenstein to replace Kristen Stevens for District 4!
Best,
Elizabeth
Voter, 80521
...........................
Elizabeth Simons (She/Her/Hers)Graphic Design at ainsleestudios.com
2.2
Packet Pg. 30 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
Eric Engel
Area Sales Manager
NMLS ID #636431
2900 South College
Avenue, Suite 1A
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Direct: 970-212-9001
Mobile: 970-590-3753
Apply Now!
Upload Documents
From:Eric Engel
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Shirley Peel for City Council
Date:Monday, December 21, 2020 8:42:47 AM
Attachments:image001.png
image007.png
image008.png
I have had the pleasure to know Shirley Peel for the past ten years both personally and
professionally. Shirley has distinguished herself as a leader in education and has volunteered her
time selflessly. In addition to that she has served on multiple local boards and has always been
current on local issues. I am sure that you are aware of her resume so I will let that speak for itself.
Many things about Shirley’s skills resonate with me and make her more than qualified for this
position. The thing about Shirley that impresses me the most is her willingness to serve others.
Democracy succeeds because it’s leaders are willing to set aside their own agenda and serve the
needs of those that they represent. Shirley will work with you to serve our community and make it
the best that it can be.
I am pleased to give my recommendation that Shirley Peel fill this vacant position!
Sincerely
2.2
Packet Pg. 31 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
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2.2
Packet Pg. 32 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, December 22, 2020 9:45:19 AM
Name
Heather Alderman
Email
heather.alderman@gmail.com
Phone
2023291189
Address
2236 Water Blossom Ln
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I found three of the eight candidates to be ones I recommend as they represent orientations
toward Fort Collins that are important to me and my family and many others in Fort Collins:
Jessica Dyrdahl, Veronica Olivas and Melanie Potyondy. Ms. Dyrdahl referenced equity,
diversity and inclusion and homelessness, two issues I would like to see as they focus of all
leadership across the city. I am also interested in the appointment of Ms. Olivas as a Latina
and person representing a community in Fort Collins not seen as much in leadership. Dr.
Potyondy and our family have worked together at Rocky Mountain High School on behalf of
our son with disabilities who will be seeking work in Fort Collins. Issues of inclusion and
employment for people with disabilities is a highly personal issue for us. I think your choice of
one of these three candidates would best serve all people living in Fort Collins, and at the
least, your exposure to their experiences and work in the community will bring to light issues
that require attention.
2.2
Packet Pg. 33 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Ian Simkiss
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] RE: Shirley Peel for City Council
Date:Monday, December 21, 2020 8:32:20 AM
Hello,
My name is Ian Simkiss and I live in Windsor/Larimer county at:
4817 Country Farms Dr
Windsor, CO 80528
I would like to voice my endorsement for Shirley Peel for the Fort Collins City Council
District Vacancy.
She has sat on several committees and boards in her career, ensuring she is well within her
comfort zone when joining the City Council.
Her communication skills will be valuable as you and we try to navigate the future of our city.
She is a long time resident of Fort Collins with years of experience with both her own children
and students from K-12 public schools all the way through post-secondary education with
CSU. With over 20 years experience in the education sector, she has a great working
knowledge of many of the current issues pertaining to our schools, community and city.
Please accept my humble nomination for Shirley Peel.
If you need further information, you can contact me via email.
Thank you.
--
Ian Simkiss
General Manager
Centennial Leasing & Sales of NoCO
970-302-6285 - cell
970-744-4471 - fax
Secure Credit Application
Build Your New Car Here
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return email and destroy any copies, electronic, paper or otherwise, which you may have of this communication.
Please consider the environment before printing.
2.2
Packet Pg. 34 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Monday, December 21, 2020 12:35:35 PM
Name
Julie Martin
Email
jamha777@gmail.com
Phone
9709302142
Address
742 San Felipe Dr
FORT COLLINS, CO 80524
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Hi, I would like to express my support of Shirley Peel for Fort Collins City Council District 4
Vacancy Appointment. Shirley has been an active member of the community for 20 years. She
raised 4 children who attended area schools here and have gone on to serve their communities
in service jobs. Shirley has been an educator, and a volunteer in area schools for over 20 years.
Shirley currently serves on Larimer County Citizens' Review Board and is a mentor to CSU
College Students. Shirley’s relevant experience includes: -Serving on committees/boards
with people from diverse backgrounds -She started a Pre-school for under served children on
Mexico border -She started a Pre-K-8th school and served as a teacher/administrator/board
member Shirley is an excellent communicator and is knowledgable about current issues facing
the City of Fort Collins. For these reasons, I am confident that Shirley Peel is the right fit for
the appointment to City Council. Sincerely, Julie Martin Fort Collins resident of 7 years.
2.2
Packet Pg. 35 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, December 22, 2020 7:49:55 AM
Name
Lee O'Brien
Email
colobrien@bajabb.com
Phone
Address
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I think that since Kristin Stephen was elected to city council based upon her goals for the city,
that she should pick or rank the applicants as the best to be her replacement... at least as the
top candidates for your consideration and vote.
2.2
Packet Pg. 36 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Monday, December 21, 2020 7:41:09 AM
Name
Michelle Haefele
Email
michelle.haefele@centurylink.net
Phone
Address
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I would like to ask that City Council interview all of the applicants rather than narrowing the
pool based solely on the applications.
2.2
Packet Pg. 37 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Rich Young
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Erin Hottenstein"s application for City Council
Date:Tuesday, December 22, 2020 12:57:06 PM
To the members of the Fort Collins City Council,
I am writing to express my support for Erin Hottenstein in replacing outgoing Councilor
Kristen Stephens. I hope you'll consider Erin in filling the vacant seat.
While I've considered Erin a friend for some 20 years, it is our mutual service on the Board of
Trustees at Foothills Unitarian Church that is most relevant to your choice here. I served as
the President of the Board at the church in 2014-2015, and as a Trustee from 2013-2016; Erin
joined the board towards the end of my term, and eventually served as President as well.
During the years in question, our church grew significantly, underwent a challenging but
successful ministerial transition, and adopted a new policy governance model. Erin left her
mark on all of the significant changes during this time, from her leadership of the fundraising
efforts that made the ministerial transition possible, to completing the governance transition.
I believe our church's transition to policy governance is most instructive in the decision before
you. The transition involved researching Carver Policy Governance, evaluating other, similar
forms of governance structures, communicating with the congregation about the proposed
change and the various types of governance under consideration, and, ultimately, choosing a
governance framework and drafting specific policies for congregational approval. While the
Board I led began these processes, the work was barely begun at the end of my term. Much of
the heavy lifting of public engagement and drafting actual policies fell on Erin's shoulders, and
the fact that the transition was completed successfully is a testament to her talent, diligence,
and a pragmatic ability to delegate wisely.
Of course, experience with policy governance at a church is not necessarily directly relevant to
service on the Fort Collins City Council; non-profit management is not to be confused with
representative democracy. However, I can guarantee that the time and effort Erin spent
engaging with questions of vision, efficiency, and accountability will serve her well as a City
Councillor. I'm also confident that this work put Erin in touch with the need for ongoing, two-
way engagement between representative leaders and the people they serve.
Setting aside our mutual Board service at Foothills, I know that Erin has been passionately
active in the Colorado 50/50 movement. She's a tireless advocate for equality in goverment,
and her presence in that movement has given her connections with many local and regional
politicians that will no doubt be valuable to her in service to the City of Fort Collins.
As a citizen, it's important to me that my Councillors know our changing city, have the
experience and aptitude necessary to do their jobs well, and recognize that their ultimate
responsibility to the all of the voters of Fort Collins should ever serve as their guiding star in
difficult decisions. I'm confident that Erin Hottenstein embodies these qualities, and
wholeheartedly recommend appointing her to the vacant seat left as Kristin Stephens moves to
the County Commission. If you have any further questions, I'd be happy to discuss Erin's
candidacy further via this email address or my personal cell phone, 970-237-1516.
Thank you.
2.2
Packet Pg. 38 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
--Rich Young
1415 Wildwood Rd.
Fort Collins, CO
2.2
Packet Pg. 39 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, December 22, 2020 12:36:45 AM
Name
scott mu
Email
smuss49@yahoo.com
Phone
Address
,
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Melanie Potyondy would be a great person to have serve on the FOCO City Council. Her
values as a mother, neighbor, and professional would truly be an asset to the people she would
represent. I trust that she would serve the community of Fort Collins with integrity and
compassion.
2.2
Packet Pg. 40 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Monday, December 21, 2020 5:31:27 PM
Name
Wendee Brungardt
Email
wbrungardt@hotmail.com
Phone
9704435490
Address
5763 Round Rock Ct
Fort Collins, CO 80528
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Hi, my name is Wendee Brungardt and I live in Fort Collins and I am absolutely blessed to
live here for 18 years and raise our 3 boys here!! I wanted to provide some positive feedback
for Shirley Peel who is applying for Fort Collins City Council District 4 Vacancy
Appointment. She has lived in Fort Collins for over 20 years and raised her 4 children here
and volunteered in their local schools. She has been an educator for over 20 years along with
starting a Pre-K-8th school and served as a teacher/administrator/board member. She has
served on committees with people from diverse backgrounds and even started a Pre-school for
under served children on Mexico border. All of these experiences show her heart to serve and
help others. She has an incedibly kind heart and loves others so well. She has also been a
mentor to CSU students and many other people that she has impacted along the way, which is
a lot. People are drawn to her, because of her wisdom and how well she brings direction and
guidance in their lives. She has also served on the Larimer County citizen's review board,
which shows her care for our community and staying relevant in local issues. I believe that
Shirley Peel is the best candidate for this position because she cares, she is involved and she
will get things done! She is a hard worker, always reading and researching to educate herself
to the fullest. I appreciate how well she communicates to get things done and the way she
brings people together! She is an amazing lady and you will be blessed to have her on your
side!! Sincerely, Wendee Brungardt
2.2
Packet Pg. 41 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Monday, December 21, 2020 11:35:37 AM
Name
Wendy Bergman
Email
wendy.hungerford2@gmail.com
Phone
3076963082
Address
3514 Warren Farm ct.
Fort collins, CO 80526
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Dr. Melanie Potyondy is an incredible person. Not only does she work very hard for students
at Rocky Mountain High school but she works for the betterment of our community as a
whole. I met Melanie on my first day as a teacher at Rocky. She was the first person to invite
me to sit
2.2
Packet Pg. 42 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
Lenny Scovel
1325 Robertson St.
Fort Collins CO 80524
18 December 2020
To Whom It May Concern:
I am writing of behalf of my friend Erin Hottenstein as she applies to fill the vacant City Council seat in
Fort Collins.
I have known Erin for many years, through our association at Foothills Unitarian Church. Over those
years I have repeatedly been impressed with Erin’s engagement with the wider community, not only
within our congregation, but as she has become more engaged with our civil wellbeing. Erin was
president of our Board of Trustees from 2016-2018, during a period of trust rebuilding in the
congregation. Erin navigated those difficult waters with aplomb and grace; I was very impressed with
her leadership.
I also know Erin to be a person of strong conviction and civic engagement. In 2017 she was one of the
founding members of Colorado 50-50, an organization dedicated to affirming and promoting gender
parity in public office. Her ceaseless efforts inspire and encourage an electorate that can often feel
disenfranchised. If Erin accomplished nothing else in this life, her work with Colorado 50-50 would be
more than enough to enshrine her name with the other great leaders in this community.
Beyond all that, Erin has always struck me as a kind, generous, and compassionate person. I have
witnessed firsthand her exemplary parenting skills, and as a member of our community she always
shows up with a smile on her face and a positive attitude, excellent qualities for a prospective council
member.
Whether Erin is chosen now for the council or not, I have no doubt she will one day occupy one of those
chairs. I hope you will give her due consideration. She will make an excellent addition to our city
leadership.
Regards,
Lenny Scovel
2.2
Packet Pg. 43 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Adam Macy
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Support for Shirly Peel - District 4 Vacancy
Date:Tuesday, December 22, 2020 10:33:00 AM
Hello City Council Leaders,
My name is Adam Macy and I would like to express my sincere support for Shirley
Peel for the Fort Collins City Council District 4 vacancy appointment. I have known
Shirley for over 12 years personally and professionally. Shirley has been an active
member of the Fort Collins community for 20 years+. She has served the Fort Collins
community through many aspects including being a teacher (to hundreds of students,
including my own children), a school administrator, a volunteer in local schools, a
mentor to CSU college students, and served on the Larimer County Citizens' Review
Board.
I have personally served with Shirley on a local private school board for the last 2
years. I have seen her serve passionately and with confidence throughout our time
together. She is always open to hearing the opinion of everyone on the board before
she makes her decision. Shirley is a great communicator as she clearly conveys her
thoughts and is gifted in clearly distinguishing the pros and cons on every matter. One
of the things I appreciate most about Shirley is her level of commitment - when she
commits to something she will see it through to the end no matter what. In this day
and age true commitment is a rare find. I would HIGHLY recommend Shirley for
the District 4 vacancy and would be honored to have her represent Fort Collins.
Thank you for your consideration!
Sincerely,
Adam Macy
2.2
Packet Pg. 44 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Cherese Macy
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Recommendation for Shirley Peel, District 4 Vacancy
Date:Tuesday, December 22, 2020 3:22:14 PM
City Council Leaders,
I am writing you in support of appointing Shirley Peel for the City Councilperson for District 4
in Fort Collins due to the vacancy left by Kristin Stephens.
I have known Shirley both personally and professionally for two decades and in that time have seen her
exhibit overwhelming qualities of leadership, education, and problem solving strategies. Shirley would be
an enormous asset to the City of Fort Collins in the following ways:
1) Leadership: Shirley is a natural leader. Her likable, yet confident, personality allows her to enter
easily into roles of leadership seamlessly. Those around her hold her in high regard and trust her
judgement in decisions as they know she has processed all the angles of a issue. I have witnessed her
leadership and oversight with school faculty, as a board member making critical decision for a school
and as a mentor for college students, teachers and many others who cross her path.
2) Education: Shirley takes the time on a regular basis to make sure she is well educated
about important issues that impact our community and our world. Taking the extra step to
research, investigate and fact check articles/opinions is her norm. She does not simply go
with the most popular consensus on a topic but instead takes the time to dig deep in order to
discern the truth of a matter.
3) Problem Solver: Shirley is not fearful of problems, but instead is solution oriented about
addressing issues in a way that makes the most sense with immense consideration of the
impact the decision will have on others lives. Shirley is a good listener and makes it a priority
to hear the various sides of an issue before drawing conclusions. Transparency and discussion
are a vital part of Shirley's approach to resolving problems.
Shirley has been an indispensable part of the Fort Collins community since she moved here
two decades ago. Raising up the next generation and building a strong community are her
passions. She never takes a back seat but instead figures out important and creative ways to
make an impact in the lives of her family, friends, and community. The City of Fort Collins
would greatly benefit from appointing Shirley Peel as Councilperson for District 4!
I appreciate your time and consideration in hearing my recommendation for Shirley Peel.
Sincerely,
Cherese Macy
2.2
Packet Pg. 45 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Christine Kieft
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Recommendation for Shirley Peel for City Council
Date:Monday, December 21, 2020 9:16:34 AM
Hello City Council Members,
My name is Christine Kieft I live at 3056 Denver Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80525.
I have lived in Fort Collins for 17 years. I met Shirley about 4 years ago and have a growing
respect for her. She started a Pre-K-8th school and served/ is serving as a teacher/
administrator and board member. This is how I met Shirley, my children attend the amazing
school that she founded. She has a heart for the city as well as wisdom and insight that would
prove as an asset to the council. She is very knowledgeable about current issues facing the
City of Fort Collins and has helped me understand the local political climate in deeper ways.
Shirley has been an active member of the community for 20 years. She raised 4 children who
attended area schools here and have gone on to serve their communities in service jobs. She
has been an educator for 20+ years and volunteers in area schools.Shirley serves on the
Larimer County Citizens' Review Board and is a mentor to CSU College Students.
Thank you for considering Shirley for this position.
--
Christine Kieft
2.2
Packet Pg. 46 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, December 22, 2020 10:42:45 AM
Name
Elizabeth Furuiye
Email
furuiye@mac.com
Phone
Address
2915 Waterstone Court
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I am writing in support of candidate Mrs. Shirley Peel. I have known Shirley for 10 years. She
is an incredibly hard working, wise and morally centered. She is empathetic, a fantastic
listener and a person that you could easily trust to be an advocate for you in time of need. Mrs.
Peel will thoughtfully consider any issue put before her and will ask insightful questions of
any and every side before making decisions. She is exactly what is needed to complement the
present City Council membership, and I strongly support her. Thank you for your time and
consideration.
2.2
Packet Pg. 47 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Elizabeth Simons
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Endorsing Erin Hottenstein for City Council
Date:Tuesday, December 22, 2020 1:24:19 PM
Hello,
As a lifelong Fort Collins community member, I would like to endorse Erin Hottenstein for
city council.
I think she is a great choice to represent the people of Fort Collins, as she is dedicated to social
justice and equity, as well as transparency and accountability. Her background in journalism
and communications equips her well for working with others and with the community
members she will be serving. She demonstrated her drive to serve the wider community when
she started Colorado 50-50, a project to encourage women to run for public office.
Please select Erin Hottenstein to replace Kristen Stevens for District 4!
Best,
Elizabeth
Voter, 80521
...........................
Elizabeth Simons (She/Her/Hers)Graphic Design at ainsleestudios.com
2.2
Packet Pg. 48 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
Eric Engel
Area Sales Manager
NMLS ID #636431
2900 South College
Avenue, Suite 1A
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Direct: 970-212-9001
Mobile: 970-590-3753
Apply Now!
Upload Documents
From:Eric Engel
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Shirley Peel for City Council
Date:Monday, December 21, 2020 8:42:47 AM
Attachments:image001.png
image007.png
image008.png
I have had the pleasure to know Shirley Peel for the past ten years both personally and
professionally. Shirley has distinguished herself as a leader in education and has volunteered her
time selflessly. In addition to that she has served on multiple local boards and has always been
current on local issues. I am sure that you are aware of her resume so I will let that speak for itself.
Many things about Shirley’s skills resonate with me and make her more than qualified for this
position. The thing about Shirley that impresses me the most is her willingness to serve others.
Democracy succeeds because it’s leaders are willing to set aside their own agenda and serve the
needs of those that they represent. Shirley will work with you to serve our community and make it
the best that it can be.
I am pleased to give my recommendation that Shirley Peel fill this vacant position!
Sincerely
2.2
Packet Pg. 49 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
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2.2
Packet Pg. 50 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, December 22, 2020 9:45:19 AM
Name
Heather Alderman
Email
heather.alderman@gmail.com
Phone
2023291189
Address
2236 Water Blossom Ln
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I found three of the eight candidates to be ones I recommend as they represent orientations
toward Fort Collins that are important to me and my family and many others in Fort Collins:
Jessica Dyrdahl, Veronica Olivas and Melanie Potyondy. Ms. Dyrdahl referenced equity,
diversity and inclusion and homelessness, two issues I would like to see as they focus of all
leadership across the city. I am also interested in the appointment of Ms. Olivas as a Latina
and person representing a community in Fort Collins not seen as much in leadership. Dr.
Potyondy and our family have worked together at Rocky Mountain High School on behalf of
our son with disabilities who will be seeking work in Fort Collins. Issues of inclusion and
employment for people with disabilities is a highly personal issue for us. I think your choice of
one of these three candidates would best serve all people living in Fort Collins, and at the
least, your exposure to their experiences and work in the community will bring to light issues
that require attention.
2.2
Packet Pg. 51 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Ian Simkiss
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] RE: Shirley Peel for City Council
Date:Monday, December 21, 2020 8:32:20 AM
Hello,
My name is Ian Simkiss and I live in Windsor/Larimer county at:
4817 Country Farms Dr
Windsor, CO 80528
I would like to voice my endorsement for Shirley Peel for the Fort Collins City Council
District Vacancy.
She has sat on several committees and boards in her career, ensuring she is well within her
comfort zone when joining the City Council.
Her communication skills will be valuable as you and we try to navigate the future of our city.
She is a long time resident of Fort Collins with years of experience with both her own children
and students from K-12 public schools all the way through post-secondary education with
CSU. With over 20 years experience in the education sector, she has a great working
knowledge of many of the current issues pertaining to our schools, community and city.
Please accept my humble nomination for Shirley Peel.
If you need further information, you can contact me via email.
Thank you.
--
Ian Simkiss
General Manager
Centennial Leasing & Sales of NoCO
970-302-6285 - cell
970-744-4471 - fax
Secure Credit Application
Build Your New Car Here
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This message contains information that may be CONFIDENTIAL and is intended only for the use of the
individual or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or
copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify us by
return email and destroy any copies, electronic, paper or otherwise, which you may have of this communication.
Please consider the environment before printing.
2.2
Packet Pg. 52 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Monday, December 21, 2020 12:35:35 PM
Name
Julie Martin
Email
jamha777@gmail.com
Phone
9709302142
Address
742 San Felipe Dr
FORT COLLINS, CO 80524
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Hi, I would like to express my support of Shirley Peel for Fort Collins City Council District 4
Vacancy Appointment. Shirley has been an active member of the community for 20 years. She
raised 4 children who attended area schools here and have gone on to serve their communities
in service jobs. Shirley has been an educator, and a volunteer in area schools for over 20 years.
Shirley currently serves on Larimer County Citizens' Review Board and is a mentor to CSU
College Students. Shirley’s relevant experience includes: -Serving on committees/boards
with people from diverse backgrounds -She started a Pre-school for under served children on
Mexico border -She started a Pre-K-8th school and served as a teacher/administrator/board
member Shirley is an excellent communicator and is knowledgable about current issues facing
the City of Fort Collins. For these reasons, I am confident that Shirley Peel is the right fit for
the appointment to City Council. Sincerely, Julie Martin Fort Collins resident of 7 years.
2.2
Packet Pg. 53 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, December 22, 2020 7:49:55 AM
Name
Lee O'Brien
Email
colobrien@bajabb.com
Phone
Address
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I think that since Kristin Stephen was elected to city council based upon her goals for the city,
that she should pick or rank the applicants as the best to be her replacement... at least as the
top candidates for your consideration and vote.
2.2
Packet Pg. 54 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Monday, December 21, 2020 7:41:09 AM
Name
Michelle Haefele
Email
michelle.haefele@centurylink.net
Phone
Address
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I would like to ask that City Council interview all of the applicants rather than narrowing the
pool based solely on the applications.
2.2
Packet Pg. 55 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Rich Young
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Erin Hottenstein"s application for City Council
Date:Tuesday, December 22, 2020 12:57:06 PM
To the members of the Fort Collins City Council,
I am writing to express my support for Erin Hottenstein in replacing outgoing Councilor
Kristen Stephens. I hope you'll consider Erin in filling the vacant seat.
While I've considered Erin a friend for some 20 years, it is our mutual service on the Board of
Trustees at Foothills Unitarian Church that is most relevant to your choice here. I served as
the President of the Board at the church in 2014-2015, and as a Trustee from 2013-2016; Erin
joined the board towards the end of my term, and eventually served as President as well.
During the years in question, our church grew significantly, underwent a challenging but
successful ministerial transition, and adopted a new policy governance model. Erin left her
mark on all of the significant changes during this time, from her leadership of the fundraising
efforts that made the ministerial transition possible, to completing the governance transition.
I believe our church's transition to policy governance is most instructive in the decision before
you. The transition involved researching Carver Policy Governance, evaluating other, similar
forms of governance structures, communicating with the congregation about the proposed
change and the various types of governance under consideration, and, ultimately, choosing a
governance framework and drafting specific policies for congregational approval. While the
Board I led began these processes, the work was barely begun at the end of my term. Much of
the heavy lifting of public engagement and drafting actual policies fell on Erin's shoulders, and
the fact that the transition was completed successfully is a testament to her talent, diligence,
and a pragmatic ability to delegate wisely.
Of course, experience with policy governance at a church is not necessarily directly relevant to
service on the Fort Collins City Council; non-profit management is not to be confused with
representative democracy. However, I can guarantee that the time and effort Erin spent
engaging with questions of vision, efficiency, and accountability will serve her well as a City
Councillor. I'm also confident that this work put Erin in touch with the need for ongoing, two-
way engagement between representative leaders and the people they serve.
Setting aside our mutual Board service at Foothills, I know that Erin has been passionately
active in the Colorado 50/50 movement. She's a tireless advocate for equality in goverment,
and her presence in that movement has given her connections with many local and regional
politicians that will no doubt be valuable to her in service to the City of Fort Collins.
As a citizen, it's important to me that my Councillors know our changing city, have the
experience and aptitude necessary to do their jobs well, and recognize that their ultimate
responsibility to the all of the voters of Fort Collins should ever serve as their guiding star in
difficult decisions. I'm confident that Erin Hottenstein embodies these qualities, and
wholeheartedly recommend appointing her to the vacant seat left as Kristin Stephens moves to
the County Commission. If you have any further questions, I'd be happy to discuss Erin's
candidacy further via this email address or my personal cell phone, 970-237-1516.
Thank you.
2.2
Packet Pg. 56 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
--Rich Young
1415 Wildwood Rd.
Fort Collins, CO
2.2
Packet Pg. 57 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, December 22, 2020 12:36:45 AM
Name
scott mu
Email
smuss49@yahoo.com
Phone
Address
,
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Melanie Potyondy would be a great person to have serve on the FOCO City Council. Her
values as a mother, neighbor, and professional would truly be an asset to the people she would
represent. I trust that she would serve the community of Fort Collins with integrity and
compassion.
2.2
Packet Pg. 58 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Monday, December 21, 2020 5:31:27 PM
Name
Wendee Brungardt
Email
wbrungardt@hotmail.com
Phone
9704435490
Address
5763 Round Rock Ct
Fort Collins, CO 80528
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Hi, my name is Wendee Brungardt and I live in Fort Collins and I am absolutely blessed to
live here for 18 years and raise our 3 boys here!! I wanted to provide some positive feedback
for Shirley Peel who is applying for Fort Collins City Council District 4 Vacancy
Appointment. She has lived in Fort Collins for over 20 years and raised her 4 children here
and volunteered in their local schools. She has been an educator for over 20 years along with
starting a Pre-K-8th school and served as a teacher/administrator/board member. She has
served on committees with people from diverse backgrounds and even started a Pre-school for
under served children on Mexico border. All of these experiences show her heart to serve and
help others. She has an incedibly kind heart and loves others so well. She has also been a
mentor to CSU students and many other people that she has impacted along the way, which is
a lot. People are drawn to her, because of her wisdom and how well she brings direction and
guidance in their lives. She has also served on the Larimer County citizen's review board,
which shows her care for our community and staying relevant in local issues. I believe that
Shirley Peel is the best candidate for this position because she cares, she is involved and she
will get things done! She is a hard worker, always reading and researching to educate herself
to the fullest. I appreciate how well she communicates to get things done and the way she
brings people together! She is an amazing lady and you will be blessed to have her on your
side!! Sincerely, Wendee Brungardt
2.2
Packet Pg. 59 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Monday, December 21, 2020 11:35:37 AM
Name
Wendy Bergman
Email
wendy.hungerford2@gmail.com
Phone
3076963082
Address
3514 Warren Farm ct.
Fort collins, CO 80526
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Dr. Melanie Potyondy is an incredible person. Not only does she work very hard for students
at Rocky Mountain High school but she works for the betterment of our community as a
whole. I met Melanie on my first day as a teacher at Rocky. She was the first person to invite
me to sit
2.2
Packet Pg. 60 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
Lenny Scovel
1325 Robertson St.
Fort Collins CO 80524
18 December 2020
To Whom It May Concern:
I am writing of behalf of my friend Erin Hottenstein as she applies to fill the vacant City Council seat in
Fort Collins.
I have known Erin for many years, through our association at Foothills Unitarian Church. Over those
years I have repeatedly been impressed with Erin’s engagement with the wider community, not only
within our congregation, but as she has become more engaged with our civil wellbeing. Erin was
president of our Board of Trustees from 2016-2018, during a period of trust rebuilding in the
congregation. Erin navigated those difficult waters with aplomb and grace; I was very impressed with
her leadership.
I also know Erin to be a person of strong conviction and civic engagement. In 2017 she was one of the
founding members of Colorado 50-50, an organization dedicated to affirming and promoting gender
parity in public office. Her ceaseless efforts inspire and encourage an electorate that can often feel
disenfranchised. If Erin accomplished nothing else in this life, her work with Colorado 50-50 would be
more than enough to enshrine her name with the other great leaders in this community.
Beyond all that, Erin has always struck me as a kind, generous, and compassionate person. I have
witnessed firsthand her exemplary parenting skills, and as a member of our community she always
shows up with a smile on her face and a positive attitude, excellent qualities for a prospective council
member.
Whether Erin is chosen now for the council or not, I have no doubt she will one day occupy one of those
chairs. I hope you will give her due consideration. She will make an excellent addition to our city
leadership.
Regards,
Lenny Scovel
2.2
Packet Pg. 61 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 23, 2020 10:36:57 AM
Name
Alisha Zellner
Email
AlishaZellner@hotmail.com
Phone
Address
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Jess Dyrdahl is an active member of the Fort Collins community. She gives back by
volunteering her time to help feed hungry individuals and families during the holiday season,
she’s been active in politics through CSU since her time in undergrad, and she’s one
of the most compassionate people I know. She wants to make this community a better place.
She’s fair, believes in diversity, equity, and inclusion, and this city would be a better place
with her on the council.
2.2
Packet Pg. 62 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Thursday, December 24, 2020 5:22:17 AM
Name
Dr Andrew Browne
Email
andrew.browne@dbs.ie
Phone
Address
Dublin Business School
13/14 Aungier St
Dublin , Ireland
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Jess was a part of our staff for one year as a senior liason for the Study-abroad programme.
During that year she was an invaluable part of our team and I strongly recommend her for this
position.
2.2
Packet Pg. 63 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 23, 2020 9:43:16 AM
Name
Cam Elvheim
Email
elvcam@comcast.net
Phone
Address
Four Season's Subdivision
Ft. Collins, CO 80526
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
As a 4th district resident for 16 years my preference is for Jessica Dyrdahl to represent us. She
seems to have spent the time it takes to understand what leadership means in this community.
Thank you.
2.2
Packet Pg. 64 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Sunday, December 27, 2020 5:49:53 PM
Name
Dakotah Brown
Email
dakotahbrown75@gmail.com
Phone
6153190121
Address
3928 buckthorn street
Wellington, CO 80549
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I am writing regarding Jessica Dyrdahl. I cannot speak high enough of Jess, she is one of the
hardest working people I have ever met. Our political views may differ from time to time but
she goes out of her way to speak to those who may share disagreements. 2020 has been a very
hard year for all, earlier this year my brother passed away and Jess personally stayed up
speaking to me and even bought me a flight back to Nashville so I could see my family and
attend the service. I know Jess would make a great city council member! Thank you for your
time
2.2
Packet Pg. 65 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 23, 2020 11:37:56 AM
Name
Everton Brossus
Email
evertonbrossus@gmail.com
Phone
302-228-6602
Address
2330 Amherst street
Fort Collins , CO 80525
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Jessica Dyrdahl has served as an instrumental leader for hundreds of students in the time Iâ
€™ve known her. Through my own undergrad experience she challenged and uplifted people,
concepts and organizations on topics of equity and inclusion. She managed to be an optimistic,
high energy role model day after day without fail. I can’t imagine this was true for her, but
I’ve never crossed paths with Jess and not walked away better. As I find myself answering
the call to serve students and the university, I see some the same challenges she must of and
am still in awe of how she accomplished so much progress for and with students in a system
that is broken and resistant. Couple that with her equally as impressive dedication to personal
growth and you start to see why so many people are inspired by Jess. I strongly believe Jess
will bring those talents and skills to city council and will serve the people like she already has
been. Now more than ever we need leaders, women, and advocates of change and equity as we
tackle the copious challenges presented before us. There is no one better suited in my opinion
than Jess.
2.2
Packet Pg. 66 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, December 29, 2020 10:33:47 AM
Name
Jennifer Johnson
Email
jennifer.jo.johnson@colostate.edu
Phone
9706892175
Address
520 N. Sherwood St. #27
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Good evening, council members. My name is Jen Johnson. I live near Lee Martinez Park in
the North Side of Fort Collins. I am here to speak about my colleague and friend, Jess Dyrdahl
and to provide support for her candidacy as a potential Fort Collins City Councilperson. I have
known Jess for many years, and this year have the opportunity to supervise her in her role as
the Primary Advisor for the Associated Students at Colorado State University. Jess’s
experience supporting student government on our campus would translate well into a role as a
Councilperson in Fort Collins. I’d like to highlight a few of Jess’s strengths as you
consider her for the vacant council seat: 1) Jess is a connector of people, resources, and ideas.
In her role as the ASCSU advisor, Jess consistently listens to the issues and goals of the people
around her. She is masterful at identifying potential solutions, linking people up to the
information they need, the resources they seek, or the human connection necessary to make a
solve. I am certain that if she were selected as a council person for the City of Fort Collins,
that she would continue to find creative solutions to community issues while accessing the
abundant human, fiscal, and natural resources around us. 2) Jess is passionate, positive, and
energetic. She brings vibrancy and life to all of her engagements and never quits. As a council
person, she’d be a dedicated and enthusiastic public servant. 3) Finally, Both as a person
and a professional, Jess consistently demonstrates values-based decision-making. When faced
with tough choices or decisions, Jess always comes back to her values, and uses these guide
her choices. Were she selected to fill the vacant council seat, I am certain that she’d bring
ethics and thoughtfulness to all of her votes. I appreciate the time to speak about Jess Dyrdahl.
I am confident that she would be a great addition to this council!
2.2
Packet Pg. 67 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Monday, December 28, 2020 8:55:49 PM
Name
Juwon Melvin
Email
jumelvin001@gmail.com
Phone
Address
,
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I whole-heartedly recommend Jessica Dyrdahl for City Council District 4! Jess is an amazing
leader who deeply cares for people and the community. I have known her for more than 10
years. She has made such a positive impact over the years. I believe she will be a tremendous
asset to the City Council & the community if given the opportunity to serve in this role. Go
Jess! -Juwon
2.2
Packet Pg. 68 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Thursday, December 24, 2020 3:38:20 PM
Name
Keith Lippwe
Email
keithlippwe@yahoo.com
Phone
Address
1612 Quail Hollow Drive
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Jessica Dyrdahl is a well educated, dedicated, goal-oriented, and overall wonderful human that
will be running for District 4 City Council in Fort Collins. I whole heartedly endorse Jessica
for this vacancy as she will use her experienced professional background and good-natured
lived values to make District 4 a better place for everyone whether residential or commercial
habitants.
2.2
Packet Pg. 69 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 23, 2020 5:08:54 PM
Name
Lauren Klamm
Email
laurenjeanklamm@gmail.com
Phone
3030-870-9972
Address
2544 Sunbury Lane
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Jess Dyrdahl is very passionate about creating a strong community within Fort Collins. She is
talented at creating safe spaces to discuss politics and social justice issues. One example of
this community building was when Jess hosted a socially distant burgers and ballots party to
bring people together with varying beliefs to discuss different political issues. Jess cares
strongly about the Fort Collins community and I know she would work hard as a city
councilperson.
2.2
Packet Pg. 70 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 23, 2020 8:19:42 PM
Name
Logan Keech
Email
lkeech@sqlawkc.com
Phone
816-519-9042
Address
522 NE Bitter Creek Rd.
Lee’s Summir, MO 64086
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I worked with Jess years ago and I have never forgotten the impact she had on me. There have
been few people I’ve encountered, before or since, that are so wholly invested and
passionate about what they commit themselves to. She was motivated, dedicated, and invested
in every aspect of the work, willing to challenge herself and others to ensure the focus was
striving for improvement. No one could match her commitment to progress but somehow
never hogging nor excluding herself from the spotlight. She was approachable, amicable and
attentive to her work and the people she worked with. I cannot think of a more suitable
position for her than anything she sets her sights on.
2.2
Packet Pg. 71 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 23, 2020 11:47:39 PM
Name
Mari Johnson
Email
mstrombom@gmail.com
Phone
9704939543
Address
1916 Sequoia Street
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Jessica’s Dyrdahl would be a wonderful addition to Counsel. She is thoughtful, intelligent,
invested in our community and has a wonderful gift for working with people across different
ideologies.
2.2
Packet Pg. 72 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 23, 2020 10:31:07 AM
Name
Marissa Dienstag
Email
mjdienstag@Hotmail.com
Phone
3055466403
Address
809 Province Rd
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Jessica Dyrdahl is an amazing individual who constantly gives back to her community, and
does so with a warm and welcoming personality. She is thoughtful, caring and a model citizen.
In her role at CSU, she works to develop those around her and those that report to her to make
positive change at the university and in the Fort Collins community. She is honest and fair in
everything she is a part of. She would be an ideal representative.
2.2
Packet Pg. 73 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Monday, December 28, 2020 8:46:30 AM
Name
Michael Ellis
Email
melliscolorado@aol.com
Phone
970.217.2226
Address
2251 Adobe Dr.
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Jessica Dyrdahl comes with my very highest recommendation for the City of Fort Collins
District 4 seat. I have known and worked in various capacities with Jessica for approximately
15 years, having experienced the passion, energy, pragmatism, and big-picture perspective she
brings not just to her daily work but to everything she approaches. Perhaps most importantly,
Jessica listens carefully to gather context and understanding before taking a position, and
when she does act, both her actions and process for moving forward are based on her core
values for respect, inclusion, and meeting the needs of our community. Our City would be
fortunate to benefit from Jessica’s energy, dedication, and vision.
2.2
Packet Pg. 74 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 23, 2020 11:53:24 PM
Name
Michael Katz
Email
mkatz02@yahoo.com
Phone
(732) 306-5164
Address
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Jessica Dyrdahl is an incredibly passionate leader in our community who advocates for the
improvement in the quality of life for our most vulnerable. She is an attentive listener focused
making a positive impact.
2.2
Packet Pg. 75 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Sunday, December 27, 2020 5:06:31 PM
Name
Michele Frick
Email
rmfrick@msn.com
Phone
970-402-1483
Address
105 Whitney Bay
Windsor , CO 80550
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
This is in support of Jessica Dyrdahl. I have known Jessica since she was a student at
Colorado State University and also had the privilege to work with her as a professional at
CSU. She is an outstanding woman who gives of her time, energy, and monetary donations to
so many. Her optimistic energy is contagious. She values diversity and inclusion and is willing
to work hard to insure this occurs for all. Her hard work is unmatched and I know she will
succeed at anything she puts her heart and mind to. I have no doubt that Larimer County
would benefit greatly by having Jessica on the council.
2.2
Packet Pg. 76 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Sunday, December 27, 2020 8:15:12 PM
Name
Mike Hickcox
Email
Mike.hickcox@gmail.com
Phone
7015275171
Address
4820 Trenton Ln N
Plymouth, MN 55442
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Jess Dyrdahl is one of the most motivated and kind people I've ever met. She's had high
political aspirations for as long as I can remember (she always wanted to be the first woman
president), and City Council would be a great fit for her. She will do right by the folks of Fort
Collins!
2.2
Packet Pg. 77 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, December 29, 2020 12:16:44 PM
Name
Pamela Norris
Email
pameladnorris@gmail.com
Phone
9706908393
Address
1913 OVERLOOK DR
FORT COLLINS, CO 80526
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I have known Jess for over 10 years. Most recently I have had the privilege of working with
Jess as she served as a Program Coordinator for Leadership Development and then as the
Assistant Director for Student Government at Colorado State University's Student Leadership,
Involvement & Community Engagement office in the Lory Student Center. She is an absolute
delight and I consider myself quite lucky to work with her. Jess is an incredible person with
many outstanding qualities. Outspoken, confident, intelligent, dedicated, and armed with a
wonderful sense of humor, she simply excels at being a person. Though the words one can use
to describe Jess may be used to describe many others, the difference between those “many
others†and her is that Jess is a living example of what those words mean. She is not just
confident; she carries such confidence that not one person in the room leaves it unnoticed. And
such is the case with all the qualities she embodies. She possesses a magnetic personality, is a
trustworthy individual, a role model for her peers and she exudes character. It is not only her
originality that will make her such a good choice for our City Council, but also her deep
dedication to her work. As her supervisor, I have benefited from her constant dependability,
resourcefulness, and commitment to both the task at hand and to the team effort often required
to achieve organizational goals. Jess works with a wide variety of constituents including
students, administrators, faculty, alumni, state legislatures, and community members. Jess is
exceptional at working with all people. She takes the time to fully understand individual needs
and always follows through with commitments. She is a natural leader, and her wide variety of
experiences at CSU has only enhanced her ability to be effective in leadership roles. She
certainly models a servant leader in the eyes of many. She is able to envision the future and
also has the skills necessary to implement ways to reach that vision and lead and delegate to
others to build a team approach. Working with Jess and knowing Jess has been one of the
greatest pleasures of my career. Jess radiates enthusiasm and life. She is conscientious, bright,
capable, professional, and is an organized person. Jess is also aware of social issues in the
world around her. She intently reflects on these issues and works at creating positive change
and general awareness. She is concerned with the welfare of others. She seeks out
opportunities to learn about other cultures and traditions and challenges herself and others to
expand their knowledge and acceptance. It is through this meaningful exploration that she has
developed a mutually beneficial and vast network of colleagues and friends that she manages
2.2
Packet Pg. 78 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
through her powerful and endearing life force. It is my observation that Jess instinctively
knows how to engage those around her. She is genuine, optimistic, kind, and has enormous
energy. She is also extraordinarily talented. I have observed Jess in both small and large group
settings. She is an active listener and is attentive to others’ issues and opinions. She is an
independent thinker; however, she draws energy from working with a team. As one who
works best under pressure, she can manage multiple commitments simultaneously while
maintaining her sense of humor. Jess is dedicated and sincere. Whatever she sets out to do, she
accomplishes. She is willing to take risks and works hard to do her best. I believe she
definitely possesses the attitude, aptitude, and work ethic to be a valuable addition to the Fort
Collins City Council as the District 4 Representative. Thank you for your time.
2.2
Packet Pg. 79 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 23, 2020 11:16:30 AM
Name
Richy Lynn
Email
richy_lynn@hotmail.com
Phone
9703083154
Address
2608 Kansas dr
E133
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I am writing to provide feedback on applicant Jess Dyrdahl. Ms. Dyrdahl is a fine human
being whom I have had the pleasure to know for the past 15 years. She deeply loves and fights
for this community. Additionally her advocacy on Council would allow her to represent the
students and non academic faculty of CSU in regards to city matters. Please consider her as an
asset to the city and council.
2.2
Packet Pg. 80 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Monday, December 28, 2020 12:16:45 PM
Name
Sarah Olson
Email
sarah.olson.08@gmail.com
Phone
509-475-7847
Address
2602 Avenger Pl Unit 2
Fort Collins , CO 80524
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I have known Jessica for several years and I was thrilled when I heard that she was running for
City Council. Jessica is the kind of person we deserve to have represent us. She is a great
listener, strategic thinker, and she has great intercultural competency. She respects people
from all backgrounds and has a really special ability to connect with any person she meets. In
a time in our country where there is great division, I believe Jessica would bring people back
together. She is the best choice.
2.2
Packet Pg. 81 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 23, 2020 6:57:06 AM
Name
Silas Frasier
Email
elpaquettetotal@gmail.com
Phone
Address
816 Rocky Road
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I have lived in and loved Fort Collins for more than 20 years. For much of that time I have
known Jessica Dyrdahl. Jessica is one of the most thoughtful, compassionate, and caring
people I have ever met. She is a candidate full of energy that is exactly what the City Council
needs. In the time that I have known Jessica I have come to understand that her values align
with what I expect from a public official. She genuinely cares about equity, inclusion, the
whole person, and ensuring Fort Collins is a place where all people feel welcomed and valued
as integral members of the community. In conversations with Jessica I know she has a passion
for providing affordable housing to the most vulnerable populations. With the loss of Kristen
Stephens to the County and the looming loss of Wade Troxel to term limits I feel it is
important to get a candidate like Jessica on City Council. She is a candidate with strong,
established ties to CSU and to the City of Fort Collins. The loss of Wade and Kristen weakens
that tie that has seen a fair amount of tension in the past year. Jessica can help strengthen that
connection.
2.2
Packet Pg. 82 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Monday, December 28, 2020 10:49:14 AM
Name
Susan Taylor
Email
susie.taylor0@gmail.com
Phone
702-556-6612
Address
3701 Le Fever Drive
3-307
Fort Collins, CO 80528
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Jessica Dyrdahl would make an excellent addition to the City Council. In the time I’ve
known Jessica, she’s demonstrated time and again high levels of discernment and the
ability to balance multiple, differing perspectives. She’s fair and calm even knows the face
of crisis. I believe she would bring this fairness to the most important challenges facing our
city, finding equitable and sustainable solutions. Jess sees beyond political leaning, she sees
people. She has a huge heart for others which is well balanced by pragmatism. I recommend
her confidently for this role of looking after our city.
2.2
Packet Pg. 83 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Sunday, December 27, 2020 7:01:37 PM
Name
Thea Rounsaville
Email
thea.rounsaville@gmail.com
Phone
720-327-0132
Address
4436 Starflower Dr
Fort Collins , CO 80526
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I'm writing in today in support of Jessica Dyrdahl. I've know Jessica since we met our
freshman year at CSU in 2002. She is passionate about serving and bettering her communities
in any way that she can. She strongly believes in the importance of inclusion, respect, and
honesty. She's one of the most reliable and accountable people I've ever know. Although she's
spent a lot of time traveling the country and the world, Fort Collins is her home and she's
committed to growing all of the things that make this a great city and improving upon the
areas of opportunity for Fort Collins. She's an excellent communicator and advocate. She
values the opinions of others and never puts herself or any kind of agenda ahead of those she's
working for. She would be an excellent city council member and we would be fortunate to
have her representing us.
2.2
Packet Pg. 84 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Monday, December 28, 2020 1:13:43 PM
Name
Tiara Marshall
Email
tiara.marshall87@gmail.com
Phone
8152809892
Address
1120 City Park Avenue
C103
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I would like to provide comments for Jessica Dyrdahl for the District 4 vacancy. I have known
Jessica for 5 years and have worked with her closely at Colorado State University (CSU). We
were instructors in the same program at CSU and Jessica is one of the most kind-hearted and
intelligent people I know. In the program we taught in together, she was the coordinator of the
program as well, and lead all of the instructors in weekly meetings and trainings. Her
leadership skills are unmatched and our instructor group was always organized and prepared
to teach the content for the following week. I was able to experience her leadership skills first-
hand. Also, as a Black woman living in Fort Collins, I have always felt safe and comfortable
confiding in Jessica about what I'm feeling and what I've experienced. She always provides
great feedback and insight as well as resources to help. A few years ago, Jessica invited me to
an Involvement Fair hosted by an organization she was in called Leadership Fort Collins. At
this fair, I was able to sign up as a mentor for the Partners Mentoring Youth program here in
Fort Collins. Later that same year I was partnered with a young Black girl also living in Fort
Collins, that I mentored for a year. This was one of the most impactful experiences of my life,
and that experience has now influenced my current doctoral research. Jessica has been an
amazing resource for me and others at CSU and in the city of Fort Collins. She has also been a
great friend. She would be an invaluable addition to the District 4 City Council.
2.2
Packet Pg. 85 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Monday, December 28, 2020 3:30:13 PM
Name
Travis Annameier
Email
tannameier@gmail.com
Phone
Address
,
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I give my highest recommendation to Jessica Drydahl for this seat. She is a person of very
high character, very well connected around the Fort Collins community, as well as CSU, and
is a bridge builder. I am very pleased that she is running and hope to see her on City Council.
She is a leader, caring, and I think will represent the interests of our city well.
2.2
Packet Pg. 86 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Monday, December 28, 2020 1:15:46 PM
Name
Will Reutemann
Email
will.reutemann@gmail.com
Phone
5183669851
Address
1115 Juniper Ct Apt A
Fort Collins, 805213712
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I strongly support Jessica Dyrdahl for City Council District 4 seat. I had the pleasure of
working alongside Jessica for a number of years and her passion and dedication to community
is unparalleled. Her depth and breadth of experiences over the past few years have prepared
her to serve her community. Jess is an engaged collaborator, and takes the time to educate
herself on issues pressing our community, and most importantly a listener. I know with great
confidence see would a great asset to the council and our community.
2.2
Packet Pg. 87 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, December 29, 2020 10:52:15 AM
Name
Michael Buttram
Email
buttrammichael@gmail.com
Phone
9702197165
Address
2937 Stage Ct.
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I would like to offer a few reflections in support of City Council applicant, Jessica Dyrdahl.
For the past four years, I have worked closely with Jess in the Office of Student Leadership,
Involvement and Community Engagement (SLiCE) at Colorado State University. In addition,
we have served together as Adjunct Faculty for the President's Leadership Program and over
the course of working and teaching with her, I have come to know her as a close and respected
co-worker and personal friend. As a resident of Fort Collins who cares deeply about the future
of this community as an inclusive, economically stable and environmentally conscious home
for my growing family, I can think of no individual more well suited for the role of City
Councilperson than Jess. Jess is, above all, a woman of integrity who cares deeply about the
individuals and communities she works with. She invests in relationships with a fervor and
sense of commitment that are all too rare in our rushed and often surface-level society. It is
because of this investment that Jess follows through... whether that means listening to and
supporting a student in need, showing up during a snow storm to distribute food for Rams
Against Hunger (the program I coordinate), or actively participating in the many local events
that call upon our most active citizenry. Knowing her as I do... having seen her work ethic and
values displayed close up... I would be comforted knowing Jess was in this role. She's a person
who will do her homework, come to the table prepared, and consider each issue through an
empathetic and open-minded lens. As we look to the future of this rapidly growing
community, it is critical that decisions made now invite and support a more diverse population
who can actively engage with all the opportunities this area offers. The issues our Council
Members are called upon to address are complex and require thoughtful and intentional
listening, as well as engaging leadership. With folks like Jess on the Council, I have I have
confidence that Fort Collins will steadily move in the right direction as a truly inclusive, safe
and strong community for all who live here.
2.2
Packet Pg. 88 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Thursday, December 24, 2020 2:37:46 PM
Name
Marna Shillman
Email
marnashillman@comcast.net
Phone
Address
716 Cherokee Drive
Ft Collins, CO 80525
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Here is my relative, applicants' rating, based on their listed top three priorities compared with
mine; in one case, I ranked based on my volunteer work with the person:: ++Veronica
+Jessica + Eric - Shirley - Melanie -Sidna Thank you, Marna Shillman
2.2
Packet Pg. 89 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 23, 2020 1:29:01 PM
Name
Mary Lindquist
Email
idesignjohn@comcast.net
Phone
612 209 3400
Address
2465 Sheridan Hills curve
Wayzata, MN 55391
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
She is a true leader, full of vitality!. Also has a happy face, which is contagious.
2.2
Packet Pg. 90 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Andrea B
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] In support of Erin Hottenstein for District 4
Date:Tuesday, December 29, 2020 1:20:43 PM
Hello there,
My name is Andrea Bazoin and I am a Fort Collins resident and business owner. I wanted to
voice my support for Erin Hottenstein to fill the recent City Council vacancy for District 4. I
have known her for about five years, as business owners and members of Foothills Unitarian
Church. She is capable, community-driven, and diplomatic. She is also a very hard worker
who knows how to keep a level head in times of crisis.
Best of luck with the process.
Warmly,
Andrea
Andrea M. Bazoin (say "Bah-Zwah"), M.Ed.
Founder, everHuman, LLC
Love technology. Be yourself!
(970) 459-7400
Meet me at www.everhuman.io!
Schedule time with me.
everHuman empowers technology users and teams to confidently manage and preserve digital assets,
utilize productivity software, and navigate an ever-changing digital landscape through coaching,
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2.2
Packet Pg. 91 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Cathy Watson
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Endorsement for City Council
Date:Tuesday, December 29, 2020 1:31:04 PM
To Fort Collins City Council:
>
> As long-time residents (40+ years) of Fort Collins we would like to submit this letter endorsing Erin Hottenstein
for City Council. Our professional interactions with Erin have been extensive as she has been engaged in many
leadership positions at Foothills Unitarian Church.
> We first worked with Erin in her role as part of the Stewardship Committee. She helped to transform the
philosophy of giving at Foothills from “give if you want” to “giving as a community responsibility”. Because of her
efforts we substantially grew both participation in giving as well as the overall funds raised. This allowed us to not
only grow the staff of the Church, but give more of the offering to our community partners (Habitat for Humanity,
Food Bank, La Familia, etc.)
> We also worked with her on the Board of Directors during a very trying time as we were recruiting and
transitioning to a new Senior Minister. Her ability to maintain a steady head during contentious issues and bring
along the whole congregation made us much stronger as a force in the community.
> In summary, we would love to see Erin on the City Council and know she would be a valuable asset.
>
> Sincerely,
> Larry & Cathy Watson
>
> Cathy Watson
> 970-567-8895 (C)
> 1439 Catalpa Ct.
> Ft. Collins, CO 80521
2.2
Packet Pg. 92 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Jane Everham
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Letter of recommendation
Date:Tuesday, December 29, 2020 8:08:44 AM
Attachments:Letter of Rec on Erin.docx
Dear City Leaders, December 29, 2020
It is my great honor to write a letter recommending Erin Hottenstein to be selected to
fill the vacancy on the Fort Collins City Council left by Kristen Stephens. I have known Erin
for over a decade. Through my church activity I have observed Erin take on one leadership
role after another. The one I want to highlight is her role on our Foothills Unitarian Board of
Trustees.
Our church was growing and going through numerous transitions including hiring an
assistant minister, hiring interim ministers after our beloved senior minister retired, and then
calling (hiring) a new senior minister. Erin was instrumental in all those decisions. When she
was president of the Board of Trustees, a highly regarded employee had to be let go. This was
very disruptive to the congregation. Erin led multiple meetings to inform and listen to
members anger, grief, concerns, and to answer questions. At an All Congregational meeting,
many members of the congregation were emotional, and Erin maintained her composure,
professionalism, and leadership throughout. My respect for her skills as a leader at least
doubled.
Then in 2017, Erin recruited me to Colorado5050, an organization she founded with
the mission of helping create gender parity in elected offices, boards, and commissions. She
led a small group of peers to organize information meetings for women interested in elected
office. She has provided training for future candidates and people just interested in learning
how to support campaigns. She has brought in national organizations to provide more in-depth
training. She provides ongoing recruitment and support to women during their campaigns and
invites volunteers to donate and give their time to these candidates. Erin maintains a
Colorado5050 website to keep followers up-to-date on non-partisan political developments in
Colorado.
Erin Hottenstein is smart, well organized, highly motivated, mature, articulate, a
willing learner, and she has extensive leadership experience. She is eager to serve her
community as an elected public servant. This position on the city council is perfect for Erin to
demonstrate her leadership skills. Erin will be a huge asset to our city council and when she
completes her tenure. she will continue to look for opportunities to serve. I strongly believe
that she will be recognized and noticed, and her name will become known. Her elected service
career serving the citizens of Colorado will always be known as having started with the Fort
Collins City Council.
I am available to answer more questions as needed, do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Jane Everham
2825 Dixon Creek Lane
2.2
Packet Pg. 93 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
Fort Collins, Colorado 80526
970-222-9709
janeeverham@gmail.com
2.2
Packet Pg. 94 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Jennifer Iole
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Erin Hottenstein
Date:Tuesday, December 29, 2020 4:17:53 PM
Dear City of Fort Collins Officials,
I have known Erin for over 20 years and have seen her in various leadership
positions within the community. She is thoughtful, pragmatic, insightful and very
dependable.
Erin would help Fort Collins remain the best place to live and raise a family and
look for ways to improve our community.
We love FoCo and only want the best for our wonderful home town.
Jennifer Iole
2.2
Packet Pg. 95 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Karen Johnese
To:City Leaders
Cc:Erin Hottenstein
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Erin Hottenstein for city council
Date:Tuesday, December 29, 2020 2:25:30 PM
Dear City Council members:
My name in Karen Johnese. I am a semi-retired corporate leader, grant maker and nonprofit executive. I have been a
city resident for over a decade and have known Erin in many capacities; as a fellow board member of our church,
through her involvement in her children’s school, where my grandchildren also attended, and as a building project
leader. Erin is a most thoughtful leader, listening to all participants carefully, before developing her response. She is
patient, inclusive and a big picture thinker. Erin is passionate about community concerns and at the same time,
handles details thoroughly. As the leader of our church of 800, she oversaw a total overhaul of our governance
structure, a job I wouldn’t wish on anyone, and did so methodically and with great diplomacy. She believes in the
potential of Fort Collins to become an even more inclusive and vital city and will bring resourceful solutions to the
city’s challenges. I urge you to select Erin. You should not miss this opportunity to add her collaborative style,
organizational skills and steadfast commitment to the talents on your council.
Sincerely,
Karen Johnese
5103 Country Squire Way, Fort Collins, CO 80528
724-612-3562
2.2
Packet Pg. 96 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Melissa Abrams
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Erin Hottenstein
Date:Tuesday, December 29, 2020 2:16:07 PM
Hi!
Erin is a great person to have on a team. I worked with her on a couple of Presidential
elections at CSU and have been in a women’s group with her for quite a while. She has a big
heart, is organized and a very thoughtful, thinking woman. I know she has been interested in
getting even more involved in the community than she is already which allows me to
wholeheartedly support her candidacy for city council. Hopefully you all will feel the same
way.
Sincerely,
Missy Abrams
Sent from the all new Aol app for iOS
2.2
Packet Pg. 97 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
Erin Price
4200 Monmouth Court
Fort Collins, Colorado 80525
December 27, 2020
Dear Fort Collins City Council,
I am pleased to offer a recommendation for Erin Hottenstein for a position on City Council.
I have known Erin for over fifteen years and worked closely with her for five years in developing
a standing stewardship committee at Foothills Unitarian Church, something the church
previously lacked. Starting a committee virtually from scratch is no easy feat. It required us to
create a system of policies and procedures, to identify a vision for the work of the committee,
to convince the Board of Directors of the necessity for the very existence of the committee, and
to handle concerns expressed by various stakeholders about sensitive financial issues. And
then, of course, we had to actually go out and raise a lot of money. Erin’s skills at balancing the
minutiae of everyday operations, while also envisioning the potential of the committee, which
we knew would take years to develop to its full potential, was instrumental in our success.
Erin is an incredibly focused and hard-working individual. I remember clearly one instance
where Erin was tasked with writing the fundraising letter which would go to the entire
congregation. She had written multiple drafts but just wasn’t happy with it. I finally left the
office, where she was still pecking away at the computer. Hours later, I got a message from her.
She had cracked it, coming up with a beautiful story and metaphor for the fundraising letter. I
can still remember the excitement in her voice and her satisfaction at how her persistence had
paid off. And the church was the beneficiary, raising more money than we ever had before.
One task which Erin always took lead on was developing and implementing the training
program for volunteers who were doing in-person fundraising asks. It is not easy to ask people
for money. This is one of the core challenges for any fundraising program. Erin created an entire
workshop to help people learn the process and overcome their fear. With her at the helm, the
committee was able to educate and deploy an army of volunteers, which contributed to the
success of our program.
One skill I’d like to highlight is Erin’s ability to handle interpersonal conflict. Maybe it’s her
history in offering workplace training for companies, but Erin has an almost magical ability to
cut through interpersonal conflict and help people with opposing opinions see one another’s
side of an argument more clearly. As you can probably imagine, when discussing financial
issues, things can become heated. There were committee meetings where people had vastly
different opinions about tactics and financial goals. I have seen Erin step into a heated
discussion, calmly clarify people’s concerns in order to help them feel heard, then find common
ground between folks, de-escalating a contentious situation. As I said, magical.
2.2
Packet Pg. 98 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
I have also watched Erin create Colorado 50-50, a volunteer-run organization dedicated to
increasing gender parity among elected officials statewide. This is a non-partisan organization
which provides women with training on how to run for political office. Again, this is an area
where Erin’s unique skill set comes into play. She handles the minutiae of daily operations and
does media outreach including social media. (I’m certain her history as a news anchor comes in
handy in this regard.) She also orchestrates big educational events where she’s creating and
implementing educational content and making sure everyone has a box lunch, so they don’t
lose steam halfway through the day. It’s a lot to handle, but that juggling act doesn’t seem to be
a problem for Erin. And I want to highlight the fact that this organization is truly non-partisan.
Erin is dedicated to increasing diversity among elected officials, not just those who share her
particular political beliefs, and she works closely with others from all along the political
spectrum to bring this goal to fruition.
I believe Erin Hottenstein would be a stellar addition to the Fort Collins City Council. Her work
ethic, her ability to negotiate conflict, and her dedication to bringing diverse voices to the table
would all benefit the residents of Fort Collins.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Erin Price
2.2
Packet Pg. 99 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
Jane Everham
2825 Dixon Creek Lane
Fort Collins, Colorado 80526
Dear City Leaders, December 29, 2020
It is my great honor to write a letter recommending Erin Hottenstein to be selected to fill the
vacancy on the Fort Collins City Council left by Kristen Stephens.
I have known Erin for over a decade. Through my church activity I have observed Erin
take on one leadership role after another. The one I want to highlight is her role on our Foothills
Unitarian Board of Trustees.
Our church was growing and going through numerous transitions including hiring an
assistant minister, hiring interim ministers after our beloved senior minister retired, and then
calling (hiring) a new senior minister. Erin was instrumental in all those decisions. When she
was president of the Board of Trustees, a highly regarded employee had to be let go. This was
very disruptive to the congregation. Erin led multiple meetings to inform and listen to members
anger, grief, concerns, and to answer questions. At an All Congregational meeting, many
members of the congregation were emotional, and Erin maintained her composure,
professionalism, and leadership throughout. My respect for her skills as a leader at least doubled.
Then in 2017, Erin recruited me to Colorado5050, an organization she founded with the
mission of helping create gender parity in elected offices, boards, and commissions. She led a
small group of peers to organize information meetings for women interested in elected office.
She has provided training for future candidates and people just interested in learning how to
support campaigns. She has brought in national organizations to provide more in-depth training.
She provides ongoing recruitment and support to women during their campaigns and invites
volunteers to donate and give their time to these candidates. Erin maintains a Colorado5050
website to keep followers up-to-date on non-partisan political developments in Colorado.
Erin Hottenstein is smart, well organized, highly motivated, mature, articulate, a willing
learner, and she has extensive leadership experience. She is eager to serve her community as an
elected public servant. This position on the city council is perfect for Erin to demonstrate her
leadership skills. Erin will be a huge asset to our city council and when she completes her tenure.
she will continue to look for opportunities to serve. I strongly believe that she will be recognized
and noticed, and her name will become known. Her elected service career serving the citizens of
Colorado will always be known as having started with the Fort Collins City Council.
I am available to answer more questions as needed, do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Jane Everham
2825 Dixon Creek Lane
Fort Collins, Colorado 80526
970-222-9709
2.2
Packet Pg. 100 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
2.2
Packet Pg. 101 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
memo
To: City of Fort Collins
From: Tim Clouse
Date: 23 December 2020
Re: Recommendation for Ms. Erin Hottenstien for Fort Collins City Council
I am pleased to recommend Erin Hottenstien for the Fort Collins City Council. I have
known her for many years and has demonstrated remarkable leadership, empathy,
learning, and communication skills.
I first encountered her as the Board President of my church (Foothills Unitarian
Universalist). We were in the process of deciding on if we should become a
sanctuary congregation. This was a controversial step for the church, as we did not
have the facilities, there various legal issues, and potential community concerns.
Erin convened small group meetings where we could discuss these issues and come
to a consensus. She was polite, an empathetic listener, and kept the meetings on
track while allowing all concerns to be heard and addressed. This was an excellent
example of good communication in a “low‐trust, high‐concern situation.”i When the
time came to vote on the proposal, it passed with an over 90 percent margin.
I also got to know her during her campaign for a seat on the Larimer County Health
District in late 2019‐early 2020. She held listening sessions here as well and showed
an equal degree of empathy.
In addition, she proved to be a very fast learner and showed a quick grasp of public
health issues: she was able to grasp the central points of any issue and did not get
distracted by points that may have been interesting to here but not directly
relevant. It has been my experience that that is a rare quality in any decision‐maker
and I fully expect that she will continue to be able to focus on the significant issues
regardless of question put before the council.
If you have any questions for me, I can be reached at:
(970) 682‐0409
or
tlclouse6@gmail.com
i I am retired risk analyst for USDA. Much of my involved communicating various types of public health
risks in these types of situations.
2.2
Packet Pg. 102 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Sunday, December 27, 2020 11:51:13 PM
Name
Alison Jane Basile
Email
janebasile@comcast.net
Phone
970-214-3290
Address
2406 W Vine Dr
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
This is in support of Veronica Olivas for the vacant Fort Collins City Council seat. I have
known Veronica for approximately 26 years on a personal level. I know her to be of
outstanding character, having the highest of ethical standards. Veronica has an extraordinary
ability to learn new material and has enviable recall and ability to put information into
perspective. She has often been called upon to find creative solutions to difficult problems
within the context of her employment over the years, and Veronica gravitates toward a mix of
pragmatism and thoroughness in finding appropriate solutions. As her application indicates,
equity is important to Veronica, and she would be an excellent addition to the Council given
her diverse experiential and ethnic background, combined with honest concern for the
community she serves. I would unreservedly recommend Veronica for this position, in the
knowledge that she will gladly bring energy, intellect, and perspective to the job.
2.2
Packet Pg. 103 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Saturday, December 26, 2020 10:37:16 AM
Name
Donn Hopkins
Email
donn.hopkins@atlasprep.com
Phone
19702150217
Address
1300 Green Gables Court
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I met Veronica Olivas in 1985 when she was a student at CSU. She worked in my department
as a student and later as a state classified employee. Veronica has a passion for helping people,
directly through her many contacts in the community, or championing a cause for those that
need a voice. Her honesty and integrity are above reproach. She is considerate of others and
has strong decision making skills. Veronica comes from a fine Fort Collins family, growing up
in north east Fort Collins. She and her husband Bill have a legacy of pubic service in the
community. I believe Veronica would be a passionate representative of her district and the
City would benefit from her service on council.
2.2
Packet Pg. 104 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Sunday, December 27, 2020 8:35:15 PM
Name
Lena Kabeshita
Email
lkabes42@gmail.com
Phone
Address
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Some questions I have for specific candidates: To Veronica Olivas: - As someone who
identifies as a hispanic woman with training/background in law enforcement, what is your
stance on Black Lives Matter and Defund the Police/Defund CSU PD? - Do you believe there
is systemic racism in the United States' policing system and prison system? - What is your
stance on undocumented immigrants in our community? Will you support undocumented
immigrants during COVID/COVID relief, as they are not recipients of the recent US
government stimulus packages? To Sidna Rachid: - What kind of volunteer work were you
involved in with the Northern Colorado ACLU chapter? - What kind of work do you do with
the League of Women Voters in Larimer County? - How will you, as a city council member,
incorporate social justice into your platform? - What is your stance on police brutality?
Defunding the police? Supporting undocumented immigrants? - I also see that you worked for
Maersk Oil Qatar. What is your stance on fossil fuels and renewable energy? To William E.
Wright: - I appreciate that you're focused on food insecurity in Fort Collins. How do you plan
to help undocumented immigrants with food insecurity? - What is your stance on police
brutality, Black Lives Matter, and defunding the police? - What are your thoughts on 'food
apartheid,' and the understanding of access to food as political? - How do you see food justice
and social justice working together? - How do you, as a white passing male, see your privilege
in Fort Collins? - How do you plan to advocate for Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Asian, and other
marginalized racial/ethnic/tribal groups? - You state in your application that you have worked
with "persons with disabilities" and that you are a "strong supporter of the LGBTQ
community." What specific plans do you have to help folks with disabilities in Fort Collins?
What specific plans do you have to support and aid the LGBTQ community in Fort Collins?
2.2
Packet Pg. 105 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, December 29, 2020 10:44:50 AM
Name
Lynn Schwebach
Email
lschwebach07@gmail.com
Phone
9702190257
Address
2220 Sweetwater Creek Dr.
Fort Collins, CO 80528
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I highly recommend Veronica Olivas for the District 4 City Council seat. I have known
Veronica for 25 years. In the entirety of those years, Veronica has shown me and my family
compassion and empathy. During times of emergency, I could count on Veronica. She always
knew city resources and people for me to contact for help. In addition, as we became closer
friends, I saw her reach out to families of all income levels to help them locate services they
needed. Just as in our friendship, she was always there for those going through traumatic and
difficult times and listening to them—at times the only person willing to sit and hear internal
and external struggles. I have only known one person in my life so dedicated to her
community and the people who live within it and that is Veronica Olivas. And I truly admire
Veronica's integrity, honesty, and trustworthiness. Without exaggeration, Veronica
exemplifies the personal dedication to better her community and to be an honest and trusted
friend to those living within it. I have had long conversations with Veronica about the needs
for those living in her district—as well as in the other communities within Fort Collins. Her
lifelong residency means she knows Fort Collins better than most and understands how Fort
Collins has changed over many years. This means she grasps the positives and negatives of
such growth and the effect on both the residents and the environment. Again, I highly
recommend Veronica Olivas to fill this city council seat.
2.2
Packet Pg. 106 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Monday, December 28, 2020 8:33:39 AM
Name
Roger Smith
Email
y2kgrand@msn.com
Phone
970 223-3845
Address
3507 Patterson Ct
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I work for the Poudre Fire Authority as a Fire Safety Inspector in the Fire Prevention Bureau. I
have worked with Veronica in her role at CSU as the Housing & Dining Services Safety
Coordinator for 15 years. She has always been extremely dedicated to the safety of students
and staff in the Residence Halls. Our main interaction has been conducting fire drills.
However, Veronica would frequently contact me about various fire code issues that she had
questions about. I have rarely known anyone with her dedication and foresight regarding the
role of fire safety. As a native of Fort Collins, Veronica takes great interest in not only CSU,
but the community as a whole. She is very organized and has the ability prioritize short and
long term priorities. I strongly believe she has the experience to be a City Council member.
She is a problem solver and takes balanced measures to resolve the issues of her customers,
which in this case would be all citizens and constituents of Fort Collins.
2.2
Packet Pg. 107 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 23, 2020 11:10:39 AM
Name
Adam Lovell
Email
mr.adamlovell@gmail.com
Phone
3035066486
Address
135 S Sunset St
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I want our new council member to be aware of the historic social context of our community,
and therefore acknowledge the radicalized systems that effect the daily lives of Fort Collins
residents. DO NOT HIRE SHIRLEY PEEL, she is unfit for this job and represents a white
supremacist point of view.
2.2
Packet Pg. 108 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Barbara Hickman
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Shirley Peel
Date:Wednesday, December 23, 2020 6:29:43 PM
Dear Council Members,
It is my honor to support Shirley Peel for the above position of District 4 Council person. I
have gotten to know her over this past election period and find her to be efficient, concerned
and purposeful in her duties.
Shirley has raised 4 children in the Fort Collins area over the last 20 years and has been
actively involved in education as a teacher as well as a school volunteer. Shirley has also
mentored CSU students.
I understand that Shirley started two schools - one for children Pre K through 8th grade and
another for underprivileged children on the Mexican border.
Thank you for your consideration.
Barbara Hickman
931 Alexa Way
Fort Collin 80526
2.2
Packet Pg. 109 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 23, 2020 10:41:33 PM
Name
Elizabeth Fabatz
Email
bethfabatz@gmail.com
Phone
7192317050
Address
512 YUMA CT
FORT COLLINS, CO 80525-7033
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Hi, My name is Elizabeth Fabatz and my address is 512 Yuma Ct., Fort Collins CO 80525. I
am in support of Shirley Peel for the City Council District 4 appointment. I have known
Shirley Peel for three years now, working alongside her guidance at Christian Core Academy
(CCA). Shirley's teaching career spans 20+ years. Throughout this time, she has been a
passionate educator and dedicated to reaching young hearts and minds to be strong leaders in
this world. Her community involvement has been a powerful model and influence for her
family. All of her four children have attended local schools and are now serving the
community in their service jobs as well. Shirley has a heart for service within her community.
Over the years, she has contributed to many volunteer hours in her children's schools, filling in
for teachers and administrators. In 2007, Shirley started CCA, a PreK - 8th-grade private
school, which she continues to be an active volunteer and board member, taking on various
responsibilities to keep the school operating smoothly. In addition, Shirley currently serves on
the Larimer County Citizen's Review Board to assist with disputes between families and
health and human services. Additionally, she has served as a mentor for college-age students,
including victims of abuse. Shirley's experience working with culturally diverse professionals
on committees and boards will add a well-rounded perspective when contributing to
discussions and decision making. Equally important, her involvement in starting a preschool
for underserved children on the Mexico border has opened up many opportunities to help
children grow physically, academically, and social emotionally. Shirley is an effective
communicator, focusing on solutions and effective practices. She strives to build bridges and
make deeper connections with her surrounding community relationships. Through her
experience, knowledge, and awareness about current issues facing Fort Collins, Shirley would
be an excellent choice for the City Council Appointment 4 role. Thank you, Elizabeth Fabatz
2.2
Packet Pg. 110 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 23, 2020 8:52:14 PM
Name
Nancy Eason
Email
neebiz@naturalverities.com
Phone
9704937588
Address
1909 Turnberry Road
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I am writing in support of Shirley Peel. Her calm demeanor, common sense, and experience as
a businesswoman and community member all point to her qualifications to serve on City
Council. She has time and flexibility to do a good and thorough job. She is a woman of
integrity who truly desires to give back to our city. She will bring a lifetime of wisdom and
insight to this position. I urge you to appoint her to the District 4 vacancy. Thank you.
2.2
Packet Pg. 111 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:hpatti6
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Shirley Peel
Date:Wednesday, December 23, 2020 2:20:07 PM
My name is Patricia Sanchez and have been a resident of Ft. Collins since 1979. I am a retired
Poudre School District teacher. I would appreciate your consideration for Shirley Peel to fill
the City Council vacancy position.
Shirley Peel is an excellent candidate for the vacancy on the Ft. Collins City Council. I
especially appreciate her work with diverse populations. She has experience working with the
Latino population as evidenced with serving in the following capacities: served on
committees/boards with people from diverse backgrounds and started a Pre-school for under
served children on Mexico border. Shirley is an excellent communicator and has developed
strong rapport with Latinos in this community.
Shirley is involved in many community committees and boards and works with vision of the
total picture in mind. Working with diverse populations is definitely her strength. She is
always willing to go above and beyond with all of her efforts and gives 100% and more to
causes.
I thank you for your time and consideration of Shirley Peel for the vacancy. She is a true
leader!
Sincerely,
Patricia Sanchez
3012 Garrett Drive
Ft. Collins, Colorado
80526
970.226.1082
Sent from my Galaxy Tab® S2
2.2
Packet Pg. 112 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, December 29, 2020 10:34:08 AM
Name
Alan Braslau
Email
braslau@comcast.net
Phone
970-237-0957
Address
816 W Mountain Ave
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
It is a very good sign that we have 6 interesting candidates to fill the District 4 vacancy on
City Council. I write in support of Melanie Potyondy. In all of my civic involvement, I have
constantly seen Melanie's participation and motivation. She has been very involved and a
strong, positive contributor. Melanie is deeply devoted to our community, she is deeply
devoted to education and to the livability of Fort Collins. Melanie has constantly been both
active as well as very pleasantly respectful and encouraging of others. We will miss Kristin on
City Council (and appreciate her as County Commissioner), but this absence will be
compensated largely if Melanie Potyondy is selected to represent District 4. Thank you. Alan
2.2
Packet Pg. 113 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, December 22, 2020 5:48:30 PM
Name
Emily Moreland
Email
emily.s.moreland@gmail.com
Phone
9705603159
Address
11750 Road 34
Mancos, CO 81328
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
As a former resident of Fort Collins and double graduate of CSU (BA 2006; MA 2011), I
believe Melanie will be a wonderful addition to the city council. In all of the years I have
known Melanie, I have known her to be dedicated member of her community, volunteering,
attending city council meetings to voice her opinion, journeying to the state capital to advocate
for her fellow school psychologists, and organizing on behalf of her teacher’s union. She
has worked tirelessly to canvass for local candidates and to get out the vote, and she has taken
courses on city works. She truly values local government, and she is a tireless advocate for
public programs. I would love to see her on the Fort Collins city council!
2.2
Packet Pg. 114 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 23, 2020 7:26:08 AM
Name
Janet Harrison
Email
janetpharrison@comcast.net
Phone
Address
910 West Oak St
FORT COLLINS, CO 80521
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I have worked with Melanie Potyondy and know her to be a highly skilled and empathetic
person. She is hardworking and I know she will be a great team member of the Council. I also
agree with her priorities for the council's work. The other candidate who stands out to me is
Veronica Olivas. Her background is strong and her application is well-written. I believe that
having more diversity on our Council is important. Thanks for considering the public's
opinion!
2.2
Packet Pg. 115 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 23, 2020 7:01:50 PM
Name
Paige Taylor
Email
paigeetaylor@hotmail.com
Phone
9702064441
Address
2912 MICHENER CT
FORT COLLINS, CO 80526-6241
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Hello! I think Melanie Potyondy would do a great job! We've lived down the street from her
for a few years. She's a very friendly and helpful neighbor. She organized getting a new
neighborhood name sign since it had been messed up for ages, and it looks so much better.
She put up a free little library which is really cool to have nearby. I've reached out to her as a
high school counselor a few times for advice and she's always willing to help (and my son
doesn't go to the school she works at). She's an all around good person and would be a great
community leader.
2.2
Packet Pg. 116 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Friday, December 25, 2020 8:39:19 AM
Name
Richard McClelland
Email
rnmcclelland@hotmail.com
Phone
9702064441
Address
2912 Michener Ct
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I would like to comment on behalf of Melanie Potyondy. I am acquainted with Melanie
because she lives in my neighborhood and we used to speak daily at our children's school bus
pick-up point. During our many conversations I learned that she, at the time, was the school
counselor for Rocky Mountain High and that she is interested in politics. We spoke frequently
on both subjects and what impressed me the most about Melanie is her strong foundational
knowledge of politics. We spoke of local, state and national political issues and she is clearly
very well informed. More impressively and more importantly for her placement on the City
Council is her ability to discuss political issues at a professional level. I never saw a hint of
emotional outburst when contentious matters were being discussed. This is a highly desirable
trait in a City Council person. Also very importantly, her views are obviously based on
objective reality and appear to have been reached through a rational thought process. What
Melanie brings to the City Council is a balanced, measured approach in dealing with the issues
our City faces. She will do her best to arrive at the best possible outcomes without attempting
to over-lay an emotional political agenda that really has no place on the Council. Finally,
Melanie's interest and dedication to local politics has been made clear by her leadership in
organizing and hosting neighborhood meet and greets for city and state political leaders. I
whole-heartedly endorse Melanie for this open Council vacancy and I strongly encourage the
Council to place Melanie Potyondy at the top of their list of qualified candidates.
2.2
Packet Pg. 117 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Sunday, December 27, 2020 3:18:41 PM
Name
Sara Lea
Email
saramlea@gmail.com
Phone
970.494.1833
Address
4500 Seneca St. Unit 24
Fort Collins , CO 80526
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Please consider this a recommendation for Melanie Potyondy as she runs to fill District 4 open
position for City Council. Melanie is definitely the person to help represent the people of Fort
Collins. I have has the pleasure of working with Melanie at Rocky Mountain High School. Her
background in psychology helps her handle difficult situations that our students may be
experiencing. Her compassion is felt by those she is interacting with, but even those on the â
€œsidelines†feel her gentle kind demeanor. Melanie is driven and determined to make
change when change is needed. She truly inspires many. I have no doubts that Melanie can
take on this position.
2.2
Packet Pg. 118 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 23, 2020 2:34:39 PM
Name
Sarah Harris
Email
alexander.sarah.b@gmail.com
Phone
Address
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I think Melanie would be a great candidate. She is an educator and cares about people’s
mental health.
2.2
Packet Pg. 119 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Monday, December 28, 2020 7:24:08 AM
Name
Diane Lawton
Email
dllawton@comcast.net
Phone
603 856 4370
Address
6985 Byers Court
Timnath, CO 80547
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I write in support of the candidacy of Sidna Rachid for City Council District 4. Sidna is a
compassionate and active resident of the city of Fort Collins, who provides thoughtful classes
for area residents at the Fort Collins Senior Center as a member of the Front Range Forum,
which is how I have come to know her. Her former career as an accountant, coupled with her
true desire to educate and help others would prove invaluable to the City as it faces the
challenges of the twenty-first century. New technologies have brightened many lives, but they
have also increased divides between those who can afford them and those who cannot, and
city dollars must stretch farther to deal with the difficult issues that Covid has exposed.
Compassion will be needed to address the problems of the near future, balancing the needs of
taxpayers with those who need services, looking wisely forward to future city development
balanced with the desire to maintain the open spaces and healthful lifestyle craved by those
who move here for those assets in the first place. I believe Sidna, who has taught valuable
classes on water resources, modern farming issues, and the disparate impacts of government
policies on various constituencies, is well equipped to assist the Council in hearing all voices
and considering the needs of all in moving forward. I therefore offer my support to her
candidacy. Thank you for taking the time to read my submission. If you have any questions or
would like further input, please do not hesitate to contact me.
2.2
Packet Pg. 120 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Delynn Coldiron
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:RE: [EXTERNAL] Fwd: Comment for Council Meeting to appoint District 4 Council Representative
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 1:21:40 PM
Sent: Tuesday, January 5, 2021 1:20 PM
To: Delynn Coldiron <DECOLDIRON@fcgov.com>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Fwd: Comment for Council Meeting to appoint District 4 Council
Representative
For the past 14 years, District 4 has had CSU employees as our council representatives.
With all the conflict of interest discussions that ensue, it's time for a change. Give us a
break, please. Appoint someone from the private sector who will bring a long-overdue,
fresh perspective for our district.
Thank you for considering my input.
Nancy Odom
District 4 resident
Ft. Collins
2.2
Packet Pg. 121 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 30, 2020 11:05:40 AM
Name
Abram Theiss
Email
tallabe@hotmail.com
Phone
9703336977
Address
630 Rocky Mountain Way
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I have known Jess Dyrdahl for several years and have founf her passion for this community
inspiring!! I went through Leadership Fort Collins with her and was able to witness this
passion first hand as we were enilghtned about several issues regarding Fort Collins. As a
teacher there are none finer!!! Her students will tell you that her understanding and willingness
to help is unmatched!!! I would be very happy to have her represent our district and be our
voice!!!
2.2
Packet Pg. 122 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 11:44:44 AM
Name
David Orgill
Email
dorepsol2@gmail.com
Phone
4074746162
Address
3610 North Saint Paul Street
Denver, CO 80205
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Hello, I would like to speak on behalf of Jessica Dyrdahl. I have known Jessica for 13 years.
She was one of my first friends when I moved to Fort Collins. She was so welcoming and
hospitable. She invited me snowboarding for my first time and many other native Colorado
activities. Jess has served her city in her role at CSU for as long as I can remember. She is well
traveled, intelligent, kind, respectful, and fair. I think she would make a great addition to city
council and I could only see great things coming from city council with her on it. Thank you!
2.2
Packet Pg. 123 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Degan Bartels
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Applicant Feedback
Date:Thursday, December 31, 2020 3:25:49 PM
Hey Delynn,
Pleasure to meet you, I am Jess Drydahl’s campaign manager. A couple of Jess’s supporters
informed me that after clicking submit after filling out the applicant feedback forum, they
were taken to a white screen with no confirmation that their comment had been received. Is
this how the system is supposed to work or are they running into an error? I tried it myself and
the same thing happened to me. Sorry to bother you over New Years and I hope you have a
wonderful holiday season.
Best,
Degan
--
Degan Bartels
Campaign Manager
c: 303-961-4536
https://www.mclaughlinforda.com/
2.2
Packet Pg. 124 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Emily Seems Allen
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:[EXTERNAL] District 4 Vacancy - Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 10:52:42 AM
Good afternoon City Clerk Coldiron,
I am writing on behalf of City Councilmember applicant Jessica Dyrdahl. I attempted to
complete the form earlier and received a blank screen and no confirmation of my submission
and wanted to follow up with an email to you.
I have known Jessica for over a decade and feel confident in her commitment to the Fort
Collins Community. Jessica started her love of serving others as a student body elected official
for the Associated Students of Colorado State University while in attendance at CSU. She has
spent her time connecting students to the community and helping them gain a better
understanding of the power of local government. She loves this community and it thrills me to
hear she wants to serve on District 4's behalf. She has the knowledge, understanding, and
awareness of what it takes to serve - including the incredible amount of time. Additionally, she
seeks to understand varying perspectives and is thoughtful in her decision making. I know she
would serve our community well.
Please let me know if anything additional is needed.
Thank you for your time and your service to our community!
All the best in 2021,
Emily Allen
2802 Garrett Drive
Fort Collins, CO 80526
(970) 732-0430
2.2
Packet Pg. 125 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 3:24:00 PM
Name
Jonathon Kelsch
Email
jonathon.kelsch@hotmail.com
Phone
7013212016
Address
7208 White Goose Way
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I believe Jessica Dyrdahl would be a great fit for these role. She is very involved in the
community, works extremely hard, and cares about the people of Fort Collins. I fully support
her for city council and know she would make positive changes.
2.2
Packet Pg. 126 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 1:48:48 PM
Name
Kevin Barrett
Email
kjb57@me.com
Phone
7208104270
Address
1525 Wildwood Court
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Jessica Dyrdahl is a very close friend of mine and I am consistently surprised by her
commitment to community. Even just amongst her friends, she regularly holds discussions
about affordable housing, equality, and what we feel the biggest issues to address in Fort
Collins are. She even talked to me individually about how the city could better prepare and
plan for wildfire after this years fire season. I thoroughly believe Jess would excel in this
position!
2.2
Packet Pg. 127 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 30, 2020 10:22:56 AM
Name
Kristin Flanagan
Email
harris.kristin.leigh@gmail.com
Phone
9072306569
Address
3779 Mount Meeker St
Wellington, CO 80549
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Jessica Drydahl is an amazing women. She always takes the time to listen to what people have
to say and truly cares about her community. In every capacity that I have known her she has
been actively engaged in the people and the community. Jessica doesn’t push her own
agenda but considers what is the best for the overall.
2.2
Packet Pg. 128 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 1:12:35 PM
Name
Leanna Biddle
Email
leanna_biddle@yahoo.com
Phone
7075906067
Address
3733 Celtic Lane
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Jessica Dyrdahl is an outstanding member of both the CSU community and Fort Collins
community at large. She shows true investment in, not only her students, but the members of
our community. Knowing Jess for the past 3 years, I have seen her attend community events,
small and large, to support both small businesses and members of our community; like the
event, Ride for Racial Justice, hosted in support of our BIPOC community. Jess' presence is
sunshine on a rainy day; her smile lights up any room, and she is a great listener. While
passionate about our community, she is open to different perspectives, and is a connector at
heart; always bringing people together in a positive way. I've always seen Jess as knowing
everyone, which I admire deeply (such a Woo, CliftonStrengths language!). Jess would be a
phenomenal city councilmember for District 4, and would be a great asset and representative
of our Fort Collins community and City Council.
2.2
Packet Pg. 129 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 2:13:03 PM
Name
Nicolas Derumigny
Email
nicolas.derumigny@gmail.com
Phone
+33680277929
Address
,
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
To whom it may concern, I met Jessica Dyrdahl two years ago when I arrived at Fort Collins
as a junior researcher at CSU (I am French); she was my landlady. She has always been very
respectful and understanding, and I never run into any issue living under the same roof as her.
Moreover, Jessica knows an incredible amount of people all around the city (and far beyond,
which can be quite disturbing if you are new in the United States), which makes me conclude
that she is very well aware of Fort Collin's citizens' issues and potential claims, hence being
perfectly suited for this position. Personally, Jessica has always been a lively and trustworthy
person, full of joy and dedicated to her work as well as her non-professional projects. To put
in a nutshell, I strongly recommend Jessica Dyrdahl's candidature to the City Council District
4 seat, as I believe that she owns all the qualities required by this position.
2.2
Packet Pg. 130 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Steve Tranby
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:[EXTERNAL] My Comment for District 4 Vacancy - for Jess Dyrdahl
Date:Friday, January 1, 2021 8:30:54 PM
The comment form didn't provide any response, so I wasn't sure if it was received or not?
https://www.fcgov.com/council/council-vacancy
Steve Tranby
Fort Collins 80525
----
Jessica Dyrdahl is someone who loves Fort Collins and would be an asset to her district and
the city at large. She has a great work ethic both at her job and in life. She volunteers her time
with various organizations and events, and engages with people at a deeper level than most. I
believe she will take people and their interests to heart and will strive to be the best
representative for her district. As she has both attended Colorado State as a student and also
worked in various jobs for the university she can provide insight and understanding to meet
the needs of the city and University as a whole.
I believe the city and the city council itself would benefit greatly by selecting Jessica as the
District 4 Councilmember.
Thank you for your time.
----
2.2
Packet Pg. 131 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 2:05:48 PM
Name
William Sharpe
Email
sharpe.will47@gmail.com
Phone
9136090456
Address
1505 S. Bryan Ave.
Fort Collins, CO 80512
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Hello everyone. I appreciate you and the city taking the time to review these comments. Like
most of the other participants in this discussion, I've already decided on the candidate I best
feel worthy to represent the 4th district of our city. That being said, I hope you'll hear me out.
I've had the honor to have been both befriended and mentored by Jess Dyrdahl for several
years. In my 5 years of living in Fort Collins, I can honestly not think of another single other
person who better embodies the spirit of our city. It runs deeper than just her approachable and
confident personality, but is also reflected in her desire to serve and uplift those around her. I
first met Jess when I was an undergraduate student at CSU after joining the President's
Leadership Program, which she served as an assistant director. In this role she instructed
classes in critical leadership theories and practical leadership application. She and I became
even closer when we traveled to Africa with the program to meet local nonprofit and
community leaders to study community-based activism in action. We particularly bonded over
our mutual love for riddles, being the critically inclined problem solvers we are. Of-course,
she always seemed to have a leg up on me. I continued to get to know Jess better when she
took on the role as then-assistant and now full time director and advisor for CSU's student
government, of which she was a member as an undergrad just like us. To say Jess excelled in
this capacity is an understatement. Jess has an uncanny knack for bringing forth people's true
potential and creating an environment in which even the softest voice is heard and honed. I
have full confidence that as the City Council member representing District 4, Jess will serve
our community with compassion, poise, and an energy sure to resonate with each of us. She
has an fierce love for our home, our neighbors, and our most vulnerable community members,
and a drive that can only be admired. If you watch her closely throughout this race, even if our
final votes are different, I know you'll agree with me. If possible, I would like to end my
feedback by thanking you, Jess. Your love for our city and civil service have always inspired
me and your other students. Thank you for all that you do for the people of Fort Collins, and I
cannot wait to see what you accomplish for great home.
2.2
Packet Pg. 132 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 11:49:20 AM
Name
Lance Wright
Email
wrightus@gmail.com
Phone
9704309026
Address
1849 Kedron Cir
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I want to share my strong support for Jess Dyrdahl. I have been lucky enough to work with
Jess at CSU for sometime. Recently I became a partner at Jay’s Bistro. As a community
member and small business owner Jess has my full support. She is a person who centers her
values and lives a life of integrity. Her connection to CSU will be good for everyone involved.
I cannot think of a better candidate than Jess.
2.2
Packet Pg. 133 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 2:45:17 PM
Name
Lindsey Burton
Email
lindsey.burton1@gmail.com
Phone
Address
, 80524
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Jess cares deeply about her community and plays an active role in it's well-being. Jess makes a
substantial effort to engage members of her community and has often hosted events to increase
involvement and facilitate respectful conversations between local members on topics such as
access to affordable housing and current ballot issues. She is an incredible advocate for the
students that she mentors and overall works to ensure that every individual is equally
represented and has their voice heard. I strongly believe that Jess would be an asset to the Fort
Collins City Council.
2.2
Packet Pg. 134 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:ann
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Ft. Collins City Council
Date:Friday, January 1, 2021 2:21:25 PM
This email letter in support of Erin Hottenstein’s candidacy for Fort Collins City Council.
I have known Erin for many years and have been on committees she has organized. She is an
energetic person who led committees and been on Board of Directors.
Erin is a corporate consultant, coach, and trainer in the area of communications and goal
achievement. Formerly, she was a nationally award-winning journalist in radio, TV, and print.
Volunteer Experience:
Erin is never shy about volunteering and is attracted to leadership roles.
Erin has worn many hats as a member of Foothills Unitarian Church, especially three years on
the Board of Trustees. She served as President-Elect for one year and President for two years.
Before that she spent five years on the Stewardship Committee. After she was President, she
volunteered on the capital campaign.
She served 2 years on the Compass Advisory Committee at the Health District of Northern
Larimer County. This committee offered story ideas and suggestions to make the newsletter
more engaging for the community.
Erin has served as an election judge 3 times and has provided accurate information on voting
whenever given the opportunity, which was usually on social media. Also, she volunteered on
more than 15 local, regional, and statewide campaigns for various candidates and issues.
Erin also volunteers as needed at community events and her kids’ schools, including starting
and running an after school spelling bee club.
Erin doesn’t shy away from challenge.
During her tenure on the Foothills Board, an assistant minister was hired, a senior minister
retired, two interims were hired and finally a senior minister was “called,” i.e. hired.
As president of the board, Erin helped navigate during tumultuous times. Besides the staff
turnover, there were other contentious changes. Erin chaired multiple listening sessions and
congregants shared their confusion, anger and grief. In all church meetings, Erin presided with
poise, authority, and compassions.
She founded, from the ground up, her own organization with a mission of creating gender
parity in Colorado for elected officials, boards, and commissions. She has trained and
supported women across the state to get elected to office.
She does not shy away from difficult work and what she doesn’t know. Erin is smart and a
quick study. She is willing to learn - spreadsheets, computer programs and platforms, ever
changing communication programs.
2.2
Packet Pg. 135 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
Erin is savvy with regard to social media
Erin uses Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Slack, and others to connect with team members,
supporters, and the public.
She is running for City Council. She is happy to embark on a life of elected public service if
given the opportunity.
Thank you for considering her application.
Ann Molison
909 Centre Ave,
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Sent from Xfinity Connect App
2.2
Packet Pg. 136 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:April Undy
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] City Council appointment: Erin Hottenstein
Date:Saturday, January 2, 2021 5:31:06 PM
Dear Fort Collins City Council,
I strongly recommend Erin Hottenstein for the appointment to Fort Collins City Council. Erin
Hottenstein has the skills and experience that will allow her to hit the ground running. You are
making a short term hire for an open position. You need someone who is ready to step in and
get to work immediately. Erin is that person. She has knowledge of local government, the
demonstrated ability and drive to educate herself on important issues, and a dedication to
listening to disparate interests and forming win/win solutions.
I've known Erin Hottenstein for over a decade and worked extensively with her on 2 non-
profits. I can tell you, she is who you want on your team. She shows up, does her homework,
and is a team player. Erin is quick to adapt to new situations and technology, frequently
becoming the one who coaches and supports others during a transition. She does her research,
shares freely with teammates, and often sees possibilities others miss. She values diversity and
is inclusive in her work and communication. Her energy and enthusiasm are contagious, as
evidenced by the ongoing success of Colorado5050, a non-partisan non-profit Hottenstein was
foundational in creating in 2017. Erin's steady hand and commitment to excellence as
President of the Board of Trustees were key when Foothills Unitarian went through dramatic
growth and important policy changes. Her ethical clarity combined with a pragmatic
expectation of results are invaluable in leadership.
As a small business owner, non-profit founder, committed participant in civic life, parent,
volunteer, and engaged citizen, Erin Hottenstein is best prepared to serve on the Fort Collins
City Council.
Sincerely,
April Undy
970-407-8788
2.2
Packet Pg. 137 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Bev Schmidt
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Endorsement
Date:Wednesday, December 30, 2020 4:35:27 PM
We are supporting Erin Hottenstein for the appointment to District 4 vacancy. We
believe that Erin will work diligently to become informed on issues and making
responsible decisions. She has had experience with the issues and functioning of
governmental decision makers in Wyoming as a reporter and as a member of other
decision making bodies. She will be a cooperative member working as a team
player on the council. We believe that she has had experience both in observing
and working in organizations and will be a competent and thoughtful addition to he
council.
Sincerely,
Blob Bacon
Bev Schmitt
2.2
Packet Pg. 138 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Cheryl Hazlitt
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Recommendation of Erin Hottenstein for City Council
Date:Tuesday, December 29, 2020 10:49:22 PM
Dear Fort Collins leaders,
Let me begin by saying thank you for your civic work in leading Fort Collins. As a
resident for nearly 30 years here, I've seen a great deal of change and growth. I write
to provide a recommendation for Erin as a candidate for City Council. I've known
Erin over the last few years and watched her run successful fundraising campaigns;
navigate complicated group dynamics and serve as president of a Board we both
served on together.
In her time as Board President, I was witness to Erin's composure and leadership in
managing complex and high explosive situations. She is thoughtful; measured and
decisive in taking actions at critical moments. I have watched her facilitate large
group gatherings where emotions ran high; and handle them professionally and
provide level responses that while recognizing the emotion; did not allow it to drive
the meeting. I worked alongside her in developing policies and revising outdated
practices that no longer served the church community we represented. This was
difficult work, and met with resistance at times. Erin's leadership kept us moving
forward with a focus on the long term benefits of change.
Erin is passionate about this community; environmental and social justice while
balancing business and economic concerns. She and her family are long time
residents of the community; are engaged with the school system and a vibrant church
community. I hope you will consider her for this position. She would be a great asset
to the structure of governance of Fort Collins as a rapidly growing community.
Best Regards,
Cheryl Hazlitt
2.2
Packet Pg. 139 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Corey Radman
To:City Leaders
Cc:Erin Hottenstein
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Erin Hottenstein would be an excellent choice
Date:Saturday, January 2, 2021 6:48:33 PM
Hello City Council,
I’m writing to recommend Erin Hottenstein to fill the empty seat on the city council for
District 4. As a local writer, I have featured Erin’s organization Colorado 50/50 in a piece for
Fort Collins Magazine. five-minutes-erin-hottenstein Her mission to achieve parity on elected
boards and commissions is so commendable, as is her non-partisan approach to encouraging
women to run for office. Speaking as a member of the Poudre Library District Board of
Trustees, I can tell you that Erin’s enthusiasm and encouragement is one reason I decided to
apply for that role.
On the council, I think you could count on Erin to be well informed (she’s a former journalist
who continues to keep her community in tune with we’ll-sourced data), as well as a listener
who is fair and careful.
In summation, Erin is exactly the kind of person you are looking for.
Thanks for your consideration.
Kind regards,
Corey Radman
Freelance Writer & Editor
corey.radman@comcast.net
cell. (970) 231-6769
2.2
Packet Pg. 140 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:ddavies whiterim.com
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Letter of support for Erin Hottenstein for District 4 City Council Vacancy
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 1:49:37 PM
Hello,
My name is Dave Davies and I have been fortunate enough to live in Fort Collins since 1996. I
am excited that Erin Hottenstein is running for the District 4 vacancy because I believe that
she is highly qualified for the position, as well as the fact that she and I are friends and I also
live in District 4.
I have known Erin for several years and first met her at church while collecting our respective
kids after Sunday School. A few years later, Erin joined the board of trustees and was elected
president of the board. During her tenure, Erin oversaw significant change at the church and I
was impressed by her ability to focus on important details without losing sight of the big
picture. This balance will serve her well as a member of City Council.
I've also been impressed by the breadth of Erin's work experience. She has demonstrated
entrepreneurial leadership as well as the ability to collaborate as an individual contributor on
numerous teams. I believe that both of these qualities are necessary to be an effective City
Council member.
Finally, in addition to having great energy and enthusiasm, Erin is a genuinely nice person that
will be easy to work with. She is thoughtful and empathetic and will make a great addition to
City Council representing District 4 as well as Fort Collins as a whole.
Thank you for your time.
Regards,
Dave Davies
2309 Silver Oaks Dr.
Ft. Collins, CO 80526
970-218-3855 (m)
2.2
Packet Pg. 141 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:EDWARD AND LINDA BEERS
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Support for candidate
Date:Sunday, January 3, 2021 2:16:25 PM
Just a short note to recommend Erin Hottenstein for City Council District 4 Vacancy. I had a number of years
working with Erin as the President of the Unitarian Church Board of Directors.
Thank You, Ed Beers
2.2
Packet Pg. 142 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Gail Spinden
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Erin Hottenstein for City Council
Date:Friday, January 1, 2021 6:02:30 PM
Dear City Leaders,
I understand you will be voting on a new member for city council. I would like to recommend
Erin Hottenstein. You will find Erin to be level-headed, a collaborator, a good listener,
community minded, and to care deeply for what happens to Fort Collins. Erin recently served
on the board of Larimer County Workforce.
I have known Erin for 10 years through our school community. (I have lived in Fort Collins for
43 years, am a third generation Coloradoan and a 31-year educator in Fort Collins) She
spearheaded our school's work to raise funds for field trips. Erin also found time to volunteer
to tutor children in math while balancing a busy working and parenting calendar.
I appreciate how Erin is aware of the challenges and benefits of living in Fort Collins. Erin's first
priority will be helping Fort Collins businesses recover from the effects of the pandemic. She is
excited to collaborate with neighboring communities and shared with me the website
nocorecovers.com. Erin will advocate for my needs as well as for others. Erin cares deeply
about how Fort Collins grows and wants to balance growth and quality of life. She can offer a
non-realtor point of view. She wants to do what is best for our city. Please consider Erin for
the position in City Council.
Thank you,
Gail Spinden
970 691 5761
2.2
Packet Pg. 143 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:glenn pearson
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] City Council Opening
Date:Tuesday, December 29, 2020 5:16:17 PM
Dear City Council Members,
I am writing to urge you to consider Erin Hottenstein for the District 4 opening on the city
council. I am a constituent of district 4, and I know Erin very well. Erin and I have worked
together extensively over the past five years at Foothills Unitarian Church, both of us in
volunteer capacities. I was part of the Stewardship team that she chaired, we served together
on the planning committee for the largest building expansion in the history of our church, and
she was our Board President during one of the most consequential periods in our church in the
past thirty years.
Erin led our church through a huge change in our governance model and handled the
complexities of all of it with grace and tact including helping hundreds of church members
process and adjust to these major changes. I also witnessed her leadership of Stewardship at
Foothills in which we made the most significant increases in pledges and budget in decades.
She was also an integral part of our recent successful capital campaign which raised six
million dollars for our church building expansion that she helped create. Last and perhaps
most important, Erin was an excellent Board President from day one until she finished her
term. She presided over an exciting, but also very difficult time at Foothills Unitarian in which
there were personal issues with some senior staff, major governance changes, development of
an entirely new mission statement, and in which Foothills Unitarian was still in early stages of
transitioning to a new Senior Minister.
In all of these situations Erin has been superb. She listens well and is an excellent team
member. She is hard working, smart, and takes on responsibility and difficult assignments.
She has wonderful leadership skills whether of a committee or of large gatherings of church
members. She can dig down into the nitty gritty of an issue or think profoundly and abstractly
about a long term vision. She can research policy issues or lead large groups of people in a
public meeting.
It has been a pleasure for me to work with Erin over these past many years, and I know she
would make an outstanding City Council member. Thank you for considering Erin!
Sincerely,
Glenn Pearson
1503 Windcreek Court
Fort Collins, CO 80526
9703771009
2.2
Packet Pg. 144 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Delynn Coldiron
To:Delynn Coldiron
Date:Wednesday, December 30, 2020 3:27:44 PM
James Lathrop
6415 Buchanan Court, Fort Collins, Colorado 80525, jlathrop45@msn.com, 970-226-1826
December 30, 2020
City Council cityleaders@fcgov.com
REFERENCE for ERIN HOTTENSTEIN, applicant for open City Council position, District 4 Dear Council
Members:
I have known Erin Hottenstein for several years. I have found her to be a very intelligent, dynamic and forthright
individual. She is a leader with tireless energy great enthusiasm and very definitely goal oriented. In addition, she
knows how to work with people to get a job done.
As a retired superintendent of schools I worked with many people over my years in district administration. I find
Erin to be one of the brightest most dedicated people that I have had the opportunity to work. I served with her on
the Stewardship Committee of Foothills Unitarian Church, she came into those meetings prepared and ready to
achieve the activity of the day. She brought the committee along and involved all members making sure we reached
our goal of raising money for the church. Later I watched her work as President of the Congregation, again, she
exhibited the skills, enthusiasm and drive she showed working with the Stewardship Committee. She will be an
excellent addition to the City Council.
I know you have several applicants so I will stay brief. I whole heartedly support your consideration in appointing
Erin Hottenstein to this position on the City Council I know she will do the council and the citizens a great service.
Sincerely yours, James Lathrop
2.2
Packet Pg. 145 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Muirhead,Jean
To:City Leaders
Cc:Erin Hottenstein
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Erin Hottenstein
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 9:52:54 AM
Erin is currently applying for the city council position, District 4, to replace Kristin Stephens. I have known Erin for
about two years as we both belong to an informal group of women who are involved in promoting political
awareness. She is actively involved in community affairs and wishes to serve the community as an elected official.
I believe she would be a terrific city council member. She has extensive knowledge of community issues and the
drive and skill to promote positive change. She has empathy towards the disadvantaged and a will to help. In
addition, temperamentally she is not a disrupter, but a consensus builder. Her talents will serve our community well.
I hope you will consider her application for the position as the asset to our community that she is.
Jean Muirhead
139 E. Harvard Street
Fort Collins, CO
2.2
Packet Pg. 146 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:JEFFERY Dean
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Letter of Recommendation for Erin Hottenstein to fill open seat
Date:Thursday, December 31, 2020 10:07:37 AM
Dear Fort Collins City Council
I support Erin Hottenstein for City Council. Erin has the strong qualities of
leadership and compassion for our city, both needed as we address population
growth, environmental change while continuing to maintain our economic
prosperity.
Erin has been a community activist for over 20 years, while raising her family
and reporting on our schools, our local economy, and our people for the
Northern Colorado Business Report. She is leader in her church, having served
as board president during a time of growth and organizational change. She
also has effectively represented our community as an advisory board member
for the Health District of Northern Larimer County. Most recently she
completed water literacy leadership training offered by our Chamber of
Commerce.
Erin an innovator. She founded Colorado 50-50, a nonpartisan group that
offers developmental training for women who seek leadership positions in the
public and private sector. Currently more than 600 participants have
completed Colorado 50-50 training.
Erin understands the interconnection between business, environment, citizens
and government. She has the compassion necessary to guide us into the
challenges of growth and benefits of prosperity. Erin Hottenstein has the skills
to best serve our citizens as Fort Collin City Counsel woman so I ask you to vote
for her on January 15th.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey F. Dean. Esq.
415 Mason Court 8A
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Sent from Mail for Windows 10
2.2
Packet Pg. 147 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:joehendrickson@comcast.net
To:City Leaders; Erin Hottenstein
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Support for Erin Hottenstein"s Application for Council Member District 4
Date:Friday, January 1, 2021 8:53:50 AM
I am writing to support Erin Hottenstein's application to fill the vacancy for Council
Member for District 4. As the city deals with multiple challenges including the
pandemic, rapid growth, affordable housing, impacts of the Cameron Peak Fire, and
the need to plan for the future it is critical that this position be filled by someone who
has the experience and knowledge to become quickly engaged.
Erin brings a wealth of related experiences including serving on a variety of boards,
providing training, participating in a variety of governmental campaigns, and working
as a reporter covering governmental organizations. In these roles she seeks to
become knowledgeable about issues by taking the initiative to do the research,
reaching out to those with relevant knowledge, and listening to those impacted by the
issue. Erin takes the responsibilities of public service seriously and is always
prepared when attending meetings.
As a trainer and coach in the area of leadership and managing change Erin
understands the importance of courage and responsibility in making difficult
decisions. In my former role as a district central office administrator for the Poudre
School District I understand the challenges that City Council faces when dealing with
issues that emotional to those impacted. Balancing the wishes of a variety of
constituencies with doing the right thing can be difficult. I believe Erin is very capable
of making those decisions by learning the facts, considering the alternatives, and
understanding the potential impacts.
I have been a resident of District 4 for 34 years and I have seen the changes not only
in the city, but my neighborhood in general. Most recently the decisions regarding the
former CSU stadium have reflected the challenges the Council is dealing with. Having
someone who is known and respected representing the area is important, and can be
quite helpful when these types of issues come up. I hope you will give serious
consideration to Erin Hottenstein as you vote to fill the open vacancy in District 4.
Joe Hendrickson
2749 Dixon Creek Lane
Fort Collins, Colorado
2.2
Packet Pg. 148 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Ginger Russ
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Erin Hottenstein for City Council District 4 Candidate
Date:Sunday, January 3, 2021 1:20:21 PM
Hello, my name is Leonard Russ, I am a resident of Fort Collins and I live at 931 Arbor Ave. in City
District 4, I am speaking a few words on behalf of Erin Hottenstein, a current candidate for Fort Collins
City Council.
I have known Erin for over 4 1/2 years. We both live in City District 4. I became acquainted with Erin
through our work together in political caucus work and campaign organizing. Erin has always supported
the advancement of opportunities of women, including aspiring to and assuming positions of local and
national government. Her enthusiasm has always been paired with tireless work toward the goals she has
set towards the good of our community!
After reading her resume, I am impressed with her background in social work, healthcare, journalism,
work with the advancement of public speaking, and her work in Change Leadership and leading
organizations to excellence. Especially important is her knowledge of water issues as they pertain to
Larimer County! Fort Collins needs council members who are accomplished speakers that are educated
with our local issues and dedicated to our community development!
All of these accomplishments and broad-based experience show how closely Erin's resume parallels the
very people that Fort Collins needs as City Council Members! I fully and wholeheartedly support Erin
Hottenstein for City Council District 4.
Thank you,
Leonard Russ
2.2
Packet Pg. 149 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Lori Hvizda Ward
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Support for Erin Hottenstein for District 4 vacancy
Date:Sunday, January 3, 2021 8:20:53 PM
Ft. Collins City Leaders,
You have a unique opportunity to appoint a well-qualified, fair, and principled policymaker in Erin Hottenstein. In
my six years as president of my school district’s Board of Education, I have come to value a leader’s ability to see
all sides of an issue and keep an open mind, free from partisan bias. I have seen Erin exhibit this rare quality during
the several years I have interacted with her through Colorado 50-50. Erin has a strong and clear style of
communication, the result of her background in reporting, which will allow her to work effectively with colleagues
whose thinking differs from hers.
Erin is seeking this seat for all the right reasons; to give back to the community that has given her and her family so
much and to help make her community a better place for its diverse members. Erin Hottenstein is both professional
and collegial, and would be a gret asset to the Fort Collins City Council.
Respectfully submitted,
Lori Hvizda Ward
2.2
Packet Pg. 150 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Lynn Young
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Letter of recommendation for Erin Hottenstein for City Council District Four.
Date:Friday, January 1, 2021 10:18:13 AM
To whom it may concern:
I am honored to be writing a letter in support of Erin Hottenstein for the
open District 4 City Council seat. I have known Erin nearly two decades
and have been privileged to work with her at our church when she was
chair of the fundraising committee. It was in this capacity that I first
realized, "Here is a very, very talented woman." Her leadership skills and
guidance gave the committee the confidence to go out and speak to
church friends and members about "giving from gratitude", a concept Erin
introduced. When working with the group Erin was always respectful, a
very good listener and communicator, as well as smart and well organized.
Essentially, I have never served on a better helmed or more rewarding
committee!
Erin's early training was in journalism before she went into communication
as a corporate leadership trainer and this gave her the skills to become a
leader in founding Colorado 5050, an organization with the mission of
helping to create gender parity in elected offices, boards, and
commissions. Through Colorado 5050, she has led many workshops for
women interested in learning about the political process and she also
maintains the Colorado 5050 website, which contains up-to-date, non-
partisan information on political developments.
Now Erin would like to apply her outstanding leadership skills to serving
our Ft Collins community. Her vision for Ft. Collins is for it to remain one
of the best cities in the nation to live and work, for all its citizens and not
just a special few. As a resident in Ft Collins since 1970, I share Erin's
vision of a Ft. Collins where all neighbors and businesses thrive in a safe,
healthy, and connected community. I am certain Erin's drive, compassion,
and talent for leadership are a perfect fit for District 4 City Council seat. Ft.
Collins needs forward-thinking leaders who will help ensure that the city is
a great place to live for our children and grandchildren, and Erin is that
type of leader.
Lynn Young
950 Southridge Greens Blvd #17
Ft. Collins, CO 8025
(970) 223-2206
2.2
Packet Pg. 151 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Maggie.Margaret Graham
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Supporting Erin Hottenstein for City Council
Date:Sunday, January 3, 2021 5:00:39 PM
Dear City Council Members,
I've known Erin Hottenstein for almost 20 years. During that time, I've come to know her as a
person of deep integrity and strong wisdom. She has been in leadership roles in both personal
and professional capacities, and her compassion and intelligence shine through in all of her
decisions. She injects transparency into her deliberations, and I am certain she will serve the
people of Fort Collins with dedication. I hope you will support her candidacy for City Council
to fill the District 4 vacancy.
Margaret Graham
**
Maggie Graham, MEd, LPC, CPCC
Counseling and Coaching
Website
LinkedIn Profile
970.215.6003, mobile (text me if that's easy for you)
Mountain Time Zone
Pronouns: she/her/hers —what’s this?
Zoom link
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Tell me, what is it you plan to do
with your one wild and precious life?"
-Mary Oliver-
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2.2
Packet Pg. 152 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Peg MacMorris
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Erin Hottenstein: recommendation for City Council vacancy
Date:Thursday, December 31, 2020 11:00:21 AM
City Council Members,
I am writing in support of Erin Hottenstein as a candidate for Kristen Stephen’s replacement
on the Fort Collins City Council.
I have had the great pleasure of working with Erin at Foothills Unitarian Church for the past 8-
9 years in several different capacities. Initially, I served on the Stewardship Committee, drawn
into that volunteer post by her enthusiastic leadership as Chair. She brought not only
excellent organizational skills, but true zeal for encouraging a culture change in the
congregation away from a perception of scarcity and toward greater generosity. She helped
develop a shared enthusiasm in the committee by bringing reading materials for discussion
and other forms of inspiration for the work. It was truly a pleasure to serve with her “at the
helm”. In the position she was co-chair for some of that time with another young woman;
together they were a strong team, speaking to her ability to work collaboratively.
Erin went on to become congregational President in subsequent years and I was then able to
see her expand her leadership potential, leading congregational meetings and responding to
some major issues with skill and grace.
My other direct experience of Erin has been through her encouragement of women in
politics. She organized a small workshop/conference to encourage greater participation of
women, providing very helpful information about setting goals and steps toward reaching
those goals. In particular, I remember getting information on how to participate in some of
the city and county committees on particular topics, like the science advisory board, including
timelines for application, etc.
I know that Erin has aspirations in politics and I believe that she would bring her many
strengths to the City Council. She will work well with other council members out of a strong
history of collaborative efforts and encouraging the involvement of others. I strongly urge her
appointment to the City Council vacancy.
Respectfully,
Peg MacMorris
2.2
Packet Pg. 153 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:RICHARD CULLOR
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] City Council Vacancy
Date:Wednesday, December 30, 2020 4:26:14 PM
City Council Members,
I first worked with Erin Hottenstein at my church as she chaired the fundraising
committee. As you may be aware raising funds for any nonprofit is indeed a daunting
task. Erin handled her responsibilities professionally and completed the campaigns
successfully increasing the pledge drives totals from previous years. She
demonstrated that she was not afraid to ask difficult questions in a kind but serious
way.
Later as president of the board for the Foothills Unitarian Church she led the church
through a difficult transition providing leadership during trying times. During that
period the church had to deal with difficult personnel issues. Erin demonstrated great
patience, calmness, as well as steadfastness to her principles during often tense
situations.
As an election judge for Larimer County this past fall I worked with Erin at a vote
center. Her ability to work with the public and other election workers was admired.
During this time as a computer judge she dealt with the technical issues involving the
computer at a high level and provided great assistance to me.
I am so proud to support Erin for the vacant position on Fort Collins City Council. Her
energy, character, professionalism, and enthusiasm will be a outstanding asset to the
City of Fort Collins.
Please contact me if you would like additional information.
Dick Cullor
2609 Pasquinel Dr.
Fort Collins, Co 80526
970-226-0358
2.2
Packet Pg. 154 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, December 29, 2020 5:27:28 PM
Name
Sara Steen
Email
professorsteen@gmail.com
Phone
3037868131
Address
1601 Trailwood Drive
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I am writing in strong support of Erin Hottenstein's application to fill the District 4 opening
on council. I have known Erin for four years, having served on the Board at Foothills
Unitarian Church under her presidential leadership in 2017-18, and working with her in
various other church capacities since that time. I believe that I can effectively speak to her
leadership and organizational skills. I also have some understanding of the kinds of work
required of city councillors, as my dad (Ben Manvel) also served on council for 8 years, so I
am hopeful that this letter will be helpful to you as you assess the candidates. In her
leadership style, I would describe Erin as  self-directed, community-oriented, extremely
organized, and non-anxious. During my first year on the Foothills board, under Erin's
presidency, the board was faced with two extremely complicated and challenging issues. Erin
navigated both very effectively, managing both the board dynamics and the fallout within the
broader congregation with a mixture of compassion and firmness that helped all of us move
through it. She has a very strong sense of how to manage conflict, ensuring that people feel
heard while also communicating decisions made by leadership clearly and unequivocally . On
an administrative level, I would commend Erin's organizational skills and her deep sense of
responsibility once she has made a commitment. I watched my dad for years working through
his (often enormous!) weekly city council binder, and wondered at the time how many people
on council really work through the full binder. I believe that Erin is someone who would do
just that. I suspect that she will come to meetings with a list of (likely excellent) prepared
questions, a skill she honed during her work as a journalist. I imagine that she will be someone
who is open to all constituent views, and who comes to council meetings ready to hear
multiple perspectives and make decisions that are not ideologically driven (which is to say, I
think she comes to all of her work with a fairly open mind). Erin cares deeply about our local
community; thank you for considering inviting her into leadership. Sara Manvel Steen
2.2
Packet Pg. 155 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Sarah Maharry
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Erin Hoffenstein
Date:Sunday, January 3, 2021 8:32:07 AM
Dear City Council,
I have know Erin Hoffenstein for over 10 years as I taught her children during elementary
school. She was always involved in her children's life and with the school community. I had
many opportunities to talk to her about issues regarding our city, state and nation. I feel she is
very informed and committed to making our community and beyond a better place for all of
us. Please seriously consider her to represent District 4.
Thank you for all of your hard work. This has been an especially difficult year. You have had
to make some tough decisions.
Sarah Maharry
2312 Limousin Ct.
Fort Collins, CO 80526
2.2
Packet Pg. 156 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Stacy Suniga
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] City Council Vacancy Endorsement
Date:Monday, January 4, 2021 11:03:26 AM
To the City Council of Ft. Collins,
This letter is to express my support and endorsement for Erin Hottenstein, who has applied for your recently vacant
City Council seat.
I have known Erin since 2017, and in every one of those years, I have witnessed her passion for helping fellow
citizens, and her remarkable leadership and unique ability to bring together communities of different backgrounds.
Erin is in touch with the problems and issues that our communities face, and puts action to leadership to help resolve
them. She has created organizations and events that have engaged people throughout Northern Colorado and across
the gender and political spectrum, and has consistently offered positive space for the community to define
community goals. Erin has tremendous talent for creating an atmosphere that gives all involved a personal sense of
inclusivity and partnership.
Erin was honored in Weld County in 2018 for her leadership at a one time Weld County Women's Celebration, an
event that honored women whose leadership has not only contributed to the community, but made a positive impact
for others. This was a special feat for someone to receive this recognition while living outside of the County, but a
clear example of Erins tireless work for others.
Erin has that valued leadership style, knowledge and experience that will directly benefit your council and the
residents of the City of Ft. Collins. She is the perfect choice to fill your current vacancy.
Thank you,
Stacy Suniga
Recent Greeley City Council At-large
970-313-6814
Greeley, CO.
2.2
Packet Pg. 157 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Steve Undy
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Erin Hottenstein Recommendation
Date:Saturday, January 2, 2021 12:09:36 PM
Mr. Mayor and Council,
I am writing this letter in support of Erin Hottenstein for appointment as a Fort Collins City
Council member.
I am the president of the Fort Collins Creator Hub, a local non-profit organization. I have
known Erin for over fifteen years, and have had many interactions with her, both personally
and professionally. I believe she is an outstanding candidate for this position and would serve
the city extremely well as a council member. Her professional and organizational skills have
helped my non-profit. I have seen her in action as president of our church board where she
performed an outstanding job.
Because of her competence and leadership of our church board, I've spoken with Erin on many
occasions to ask her advice on running my own organization. Erin has alway been insightful
and helpful with suggestions on ways to improve my non-profit. As an organizational expert,
Erin provided, on her own time, a lengthy consultation on developing an agenda and strategy
for on-boarding new leaders and creating a cohesive and functional board of directors. This
resulted in, among other things, a very successful board retreat.
When Erin was my church board president, I had the opportunity to see her in action as a
capable and effective leader. She was always organized, efficient and well prepared. She
always displayed incredible integrity and always worked toward the good of her organization.
She inspired others in leadership positions.
There is no question in my mind that Erin would become a valuable member of the Fort
Collins City Council. Her experience, her energy, her judgement, her organizational skills and
her integrity make her the most qualified person I know for this position.
Thank you.
Steve Undy
steve@roseundy.net
2.2
Packet Pg. 158 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
1459 Front Nine Drive
Fort Collins, CO 80525
January 2, 2021
Dear Council Members,
I am pleased to submit a letter in support of Erin Hottenstein’s application for the current
vacancy in the position of Council Member for District 4. During the past ten years, I have had
many opportunities to observe and interact with Erin in several of her leadership roles at
Foothills Unitarian Church, and I believe that she is an outstanding candidate for this position.
Erin and I served together on the Foothills Unitarian Church Board of Trustees, where Erin was
President-Elect and then President. During that time, a number of significant personnel
decisions were made, including the hiring of interim ministers, a search process and hiring of a
senior minister, with associated contact negotiations. Erin played an important role in these
and other Board processes, and demonstrated her skills in leadership, personnel relations,
analysis, planning, finance, and negotiations. Previously, Erin served as member and chair of
the Church’s Stewardship Committee, and I felt that she was the most effective Stewardship
Chair that I had encountered in my more than 50 years in Unitarian Universalist churches
around the country! She thinks creatively, is not afraid to innovate, presents reports clearly and
accurately, and demonstrates excellent rapport with the congregation. Later, Erin also served
very effectively on the church’s Capital Campaign Committee, which raised $6M toward the
construction of a much-needed building addition. In all of these leadership roles, Erin
demonstrated her skills and strengths in communication, both written and oral.
As I think of the skills desirable for a member of our City Council, I rate Erin highly in every
aspect. She is committed to community service and the good of the entire Fort Collins
community, and is well-informed about issues of importance to the community. She has
excellent listening skills, and is intelligent and articulate, personable and approachable,
thoughtful, well-organized and dependable. I feel confident that, if selected, she will be an
excellent representative of District 4 and will contribute in significant ways to the important
work of the Council.
Sincerely yours,
Elizabeth C. Stanley, Ph.D.
970-412-9598
staneliz@yahoo.com
2.2
Packet Pg. 159 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
December 30, 2020
Gale Whitman
311 East Plum Street
Fort Collins, CO 80524
City of Fort Collins
Council Members
Fort Collins, CO
To Whom It May Concern:
I am writing in support of Erin Hottenstein's campaign for City Council. I have known Erin for
25 years socially and have worked with her on the Board of Trustees at Foothills Unitarian
Church.
Erin served as the Foothills Board of Trustees President-Elect for one year and as President for
two years. During her tenure, the church's senior minister retired, two interim ministers were
hired, and a new senior minister was “called” (hired) by the congregation. Erin was a key
participant in contract negotiations. In addition, difficult staff issues occurred around this time,
and Erin presided over contentious congregational meetings with poise and authority.
Prior to serving as the Board President, Erin volunteered on the Stewardship Committee for
several years. The committee helped advance the congregation from a culture of scarcity to one
of abundance, which has had a huge positive impact on the church's annual budget and ability to
do good in the community. As our church grew, the governance model needed to transition to one
better suited to our size, and Erin helped develop those structural changes and update our
Bylaws.
Erin is the founder of Colorado 50/50, with the goal of gender parity in governmental elected
positions. She has helped train and support women across the state in getting elected to office.
Erin Hottenstein works hard to fully understand issues, she works well with others, and knows
her limits and when to delegate. Please give her thoughtful consideration for the current vacancy
on Fort Collins City Council.
Sincerely,
Gale Whitman
gale.whitman@comcast.net
970-213-0844
2.2
Packet Pg. 160 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
December 31, 2020
Dear City Council Members,
I am writing to provide my highest endorsement and recommendation of Erin Hottenstein to fill
the vacant position on the Council.
I have known Erin for over eight years, and have worked closely with her in senior leadership
roles throughout most of this time. From this experience, I can attest to Erin’s strength as a
leader, especially in navigating complex or even controversial circumstances. In everything that
she does, she remains focused on the core mission and purpose of the work, and is not shaken
by personalities or stresses of the moment. With her leadership, any organization or community
will go further and have a greater impact than they previously would have thought possible.
To be specific, Erin served as our Board President for two years. During this time, we were
transitioning to a policy-based governance model, addressing major institutional shifts related to
growth (in the city and in the congregation), as well as responding to significant legal and ethical
issues. In each of these, I experienced Erin as being driven by her core values, including
integrity, honesty, intellectual and emotional curiosity, long-term thinking and personal sacrifice
on behalf of a common good. She was exceptionally skilled at orienting our entire Board as well
as the other leaders of our congregation at staying focused on our end goals, and pursuing our
mission regardless of any obstacles we faced.
Although this sort of drive in the wider culture can often be self-serving, Erin’s drive was exactly
the opposite: all that she works for is grounded in compassion, an unquenchable thirst for
justice, and a vision for a better world for everyone. In addition to these leadership
characteristics, Erin is equally skilled at digging into the details of policies and reporting
requirements, as well as coordinating across task forces and committees, and ensuring
information is effectively communicated to stakeholders.
Outside of my work with Erin on the Board, I have also worked with Erin in the fundraising. With
her leadership and vision, including an explicit commitment to long term culture change, our
congregation grew our annual fundraising from $500,000 per year to nearly $1 million. She
worked tirelessly to understand best practices in fundraising, and to cultivate a culture of
generosity and abundance. With her encouragement, our community came to believe that as
long as the funds were going to support those things we truly believe in and that would have the
impact we sought, we would always have the resources we need.
More recently I worked with her on our capital campaign for our $8 million building expansion
project, and witnessed again her commitment to moving our congregation forward into a bigger
and fuller future than we could even imagine ourselves.
Over the last four years, I have also witnessed Erin’s commitment to our city and to our state
through her co-founding of Colorado 50-50. She has worked with other community leaders to
build a network of support and mentorship for women considering public office. She has
organized community forums that fostered relationships and understanding in a time of great
division. One of the core principles of Unitarian Universalism is a commitment to the democratic
process, and Erin lives this out in her daily life in so many ways. She doesn’t just believe in
democracy, she is constantly working to make it a reality.
2.2
Packet Pg. 161 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
I know that over the last few years, the City of Fort Collins and the City Council has recognized
Foothills Unitarian for our leadership and commitment to the community. I am very clear that
without Erin’s leadership and presence in our congregation, we would have never been able to
have this sort of impact. We are indebted to her in ways it is difficult to express, though I have
tried in this letter. The City and the Council itself would be lucky to have Erin serving in
leadership, especially in a time such as this.
Please let me know if I can answer any of your questions or provide any further information.
Sincerely,
Rev. Gretchen Haley
Senior Minister
Foothills Unitarian Church
303-877-0934
Ugretchen@foothillsuu.orgU
2.2
Packet Pg. 162 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
6715 Enterprise Drive B-104
Fort Collins, CO 80526
January 3, 2021
Re: Erin Hottenstein
Dear Members of City Council:
I am writing you to recommend Erin Hottenstein to be selected to fill the vacancy on Fort
Collins Council that is left by Kristen Stephens.
I have known Erin for over 10 years as a congregant at Foothills Unitarian Universalist Church.
After several years, Erin started serving on the Board of Trustees. Her term as president
included some very difficult times as our church was growing and ministers were changing. In
addition as president she was involved in a hard decision to let go of a respected employee.
During this time, we had several very emotional meetings and Erin did an incredible job letting
members express their opinions while at the same time following the agenda and sharing all of
the information that could be shared. Her leadership skills, as well as professionalism, was so
clear during these meetings.
Since then, whether I run into her at the grocery store, or anywhere, she is always gracious and
willing to take a moment to talk and listen to my opinions. Having served in city government in
another community many years ago, I appreciate Erin’s background in journalism as I know she
is familiar with what will be needed to be a good city council woman.
Another reason I wanted to recommend Erin is that she has been a founder of the organization
Colorado5050. The mission of this group is to help create gender parity in elected offices,
boards and commissions. Her love of government is shown by her commitment to keep up to
date on on-partisan political developments in Colorado.
Lastly her service on the Compass advisory committee for the Health District brings an
awareness of public health. As Council deals with issues from our current pandemic I trust that
Erin will be able to see how any decisions can affect both public health as well as the economic
health of our community.
I wholeheartedly endorse Erin and hope that you will consider her to fill the City Council
vacancy.
Sincerely,
L. Kirsten Hartman
970-204-9003
2.2
Packet Pg. 163 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Frances Green
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Endorsements for City Council
Date:Wednesday, December 30, 2020 10:43:57 AM
To City Leader:
I am writing to support the appointment of a candidate for City Council to replace Kristin
Stevens. I know two applicants who are both strong leaders and I feel strongly about both.
Erin Hottenstein is very eager to break into politics. I have known her for almost eight years
and have seen her commitment to always do exceptional work. She has strong organizational
skills and has experience with fundraising.
Sidna Rashid is one of the brightest people I know. I have worked with her with League of
Women Voters and have participated in Front Range Forum classes with her. She has taken on
many leadership roles. She is a strong advocate for civil liberties. She researches varying
viewpoints on issues and can present her positions clearly.
Since I am friends with both it is difficult for me to choose one over the other. Either will
make a commitment to serve on City Council and both have the background and interest in
seeing out city move forward.
Fran Green
(Frances D. Green)
2.2
Packet Pg. 164 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 1:19:10 PM
Name
Dawn Hancock
Email
Dawn.Hancock@colostate.edu
Phone
4916511
Address
Greeley, CO
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
As a CSU Housing & Dining employee, I have seen Veronica's passionate efforts to provide
safety for the students living in CSU's housing, advocating for safety with the upper
management of Housing & Dining. She has made people aware of safety issues that needed to
be addressed and has conducted safety drills for all the HDS buildings for years. She is a hard
worker, truly believes in her causes, and will fight for what she believes.
2.2
Packet Pg. 165 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Wednesday, December 30, 2020 10:21:31 AM
Name
Edward Bozic
Email
edbozic@gmail.com
Phone
970-685-9233
Address
721 Terra View Cir
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
City Council I have known Veronica Olivas for 38 years. I have worked alongside Veronica at
the Colorado State University Police Department. I have found her work ethic to be
exemplary. Veronica is extremely trustworthy and honest. She is dedicated to the community
and helping others in many different aspects. Veronica truly cared about each individual with
whom she made contact. After Veronica transferred to the Housing Department, she continues
to serve by working to maintain safety and emergency response for the student community. I
am proud to have the opportunity to provide this recommendation for the City Council District
4 vacancy and feel that she will bring a unique insight to the Council when addressing the
challenges in the Fort Collins community. Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any
further questions or need additional information. Sincerely, Edward Bozic
2.2
Packet Pg. 166 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 3:40:57 PM
Name
Mark Lukens
Email
mlukens@yahoo.com
Phone
9704810971
Address
913 Marble Dr
Ft Collins, CO 80526
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I have known Veronica for 25 years. Veronica has deep roots in Ft Collins, she grew up, went
to CSU and still works for the CSU. I admire her work ethic. She would be a valuable person
to have on the city council. She is honest, hard working, she has experience in law
inforcement at CSU, can give background information on what this city was like before
Walmart, Budweiser and box stores. The Council would be well served to have someone with
Veronicas integrity, judgement, experience and trustworthiness. Veronica gets along with
people easily and is fun to be around.
2.2
Packet Pg. 167 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 2:23:52 PM
Name
Craig Huston
Email
chuston6460@gmail.com
Phone
9704202548
Address
3910 Lynda Ln
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I encourage the Council to consider Shirley Peel for the position vacated by Kristin Stephens. I
have known Shirley over the course of 16 years and have observed her in the community.
Shirley is a person of great integrity and commitment. I see her as an advocate for a
community which values and includes people from diverse economic and ethnic backgrounds.
Shirley would be an access to both the Council and the community.
2.2
Packet Pg. 168 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Jennifer Brost
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Shirley Peel
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 11:03:30 AM
Hello,
I tried to send this to the link but it would not go through. I hope you receive this in a timely manner.
I have known Shirley Peel for over two decades. We have served in several community projects and I taught in the
school she established.
She has been a mentor to many including: the hundreds of children who moved through the school doors, the parents
who felt comfortable sharing their trials, the teachers and staff, friends and strangers who were need of counsel and
struggling college students in need of direction.
I, personally and gratefully, have been under her focused, humble leadership.
Shirley is also an attendant wife and mother. She works alongside her husband with respect and supports her
children with love and guidance.
I can confidently say if she is given the position on city council, she will use her gifts as a team leader and problem
solver to mindfully and strategically continue to make Fort Collins a thriving city.
Thank you for your consideration.
Respectfully submitted,
Jennifer Brost
j.brost@comcast.net
970-566-0281
Sent from my iPhone
2.2
Packet Pg. 169 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 3:08:29 PM
Name
Jennifer Kaiser
Email
penny681@hotmail.com
Phone
9192737704
Address
3615 Eagle Lane
Fort Collins, CO 80528
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Hello, My name is Jennifer Kaiser. I want to recommend Shirley Peel for the D4 vacancy.
Shirley would be an asset to the Fort Collins City Council. I have known Shirley for almost 7
years. My children attended the school that Shirley founded. I was on the the board with
Shirley and worked closely with her. Shirley is one of the most committed people I know. She
has a unique ability to diffuse problematic situations. She will stay the course, no matter how
difficult, because she believes strongly in following through on her word. She is an excellent
communicator. She is able to listen well, and also respond accordingly. Shirley has served on
several boards in our community; she has been very active in the schools that her children
have attended. Shirley and her husband are frequently opening their home to mentor and serve
people. Shirley loves the town of Fort Collins, and is aware of the issues that Fort Collins is
facing. She desires to bring her knowledge and experience to better the city and community.
Shirley brings with her the highest level of integrity, work ethic, and leadership skills. I highly
recommend Shirley Peel to fill the vacated seat on the City Council.
2.2
Packet Pg. 170 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:emily gallichotte
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] District 4 Candidate Feedback
Date:Monday, January 4, 2021 8:46:10 PM
Dear Council,
At the December 29th council meeting I spoke in support of District 4 candidate
Melanie Potyondy. I have a conflict at tomorrow's meeting, otherwise I would again
speak in her support tonight. I am not a district 4 resident, but I am deeply invested in
the outcome of this vacancy appointment.
I have spoken with most of the candidates applying for this position, and Melanie
impresses me far and beyond all of the other candidates. Melanie's involvement and
commitment to the community is clear, she has been working with community
organizing, electoral politics, within the school district, etc.
I believe Melanie's vision for the city aligns with that of many of the residents (myself
included), but also with the City's Strategic Plan. It is also incredibly clear based on
public comments, that Melanie has by far the most support of her community and
constituents in District 4, and I fully believe she will be elected by those constituents
in April.
Thank you for your consideration,
Emily
_________________
Emily Gallichotte
egallichotte@gmail.com
2.2
Packet Pg. 171 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 7:58:38 PM
Name
Ashley Seymour
Email
ashleyseymour12@gmail.com
Phone
3032608508
Address
8429 Coyote Dr
Castle Pines, CO 80108
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Jess Dyrdahl lives and breathes what it means to be an upstanding citizen of Fort Collins. Her
desire to lead for positive change is evidenced by her philanthropic efforts, commitment to
Colorado State University and generally just doing right by everyone she meets! She has a
bright future ahead and the City of Ft Collins would have a solid ally if Jess were elected.
2.2
Packet Pg. 172 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 9:58:51 PM
Name
Caitlin Reale
Email
cmr1236@yahoo.com
Phone
4846862873
Address
2821 Willow Tree Ln Unit I
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Jessica Dyrdahl is a fantastic person inside and out. She is a go getter and has a take charge
attitude. Working with the students at CSU, Jessica has insight on the new issues that are
rising with the new, up and coming generation. She has the heart and dedication to help make
positive change in Fort Collins.
2.2
Packet Pg. 173 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Hellen Castro
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Applicant Feedback- District 4 Vacancy
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 5:58:42 PM
Hello Delynn,
I tried to send my comments about an applicant for District 4 Vacancy, but I believe the form
didn't go through. Please find below:
Applicant Feedback:
I want to express my support for applicant Jessica Dyrdahl, as I believe she would be a very fit
occupant of the District 4 Vacancy for City Council. Jessica is well known in the community
for her involvement and determination to improve our community, for example I recently
participated in one of the focus groups she organized with a discussion around affordable
housing in Fort Collins. As a member of the latinx community, I have witnessed first hand her
commitment to work and include people of all identities. She is a thoughtful and caring
individual with a successful professional career due to her great leadership skills and passion
for helping students advance and succeed. Additionally, as an employee of a local non-profit, I
can attest to her involvement and support to local causes such as the Food Bank of Larimer
County, Trees, Water and People and others.
Hellen Castro
(970) 691-4465
2828 Silverplume Drive
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Thank you!
2.2
Packet Pg. 174 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Thea Rounsaville
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Writing in support of Jessica Dyrdahl for open city council position
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 5:20:50 PM
Hello,
I submitted this originally via the online form, however, I heard that some of the entries were
not actually received, so I wanted to send this via email as well. Thank you.
I'm writing in today in support of Jessica Dyrdahl. I've known Jessica since we met our
freshman year at CSU in 2002. She is passionate about serving and bettering her communities
in any way that she can. She strongly believes in the importance of inclusion, respect, and
honesty. She's one of the most reliable and accountable people I've ever know. Although she's
spent a lot of time traveling the country and the world, Fort Collins is her home and she's
committed to growing all of the things that make this a great city and improving upon the
areas of opportunity for Fort Collins. She's an excellent communicator and advocate. She
values the opinions of others and never puts herself or any kind of agenda ahead of those she's
working for. She would be an excellent city council member and we would be fortunate to
have her representing us.
Kindly,
Thea Rounsaville
2.2
Packet Pg. 175 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 7:55:47 PM
Name
Tiffany Townsend
Email
driscoll.tiffany@gmail.com
Phone
7192464382
Address
6560 Sugarberry lane
Colorado Springs , CO 80927
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I am beyond excited for the beautiful city of Fort Collins to have a candidate like Jessica
Dyrdahl. I have know Jessica for over a decade and honestly have never met someone more
passionate, encouraging, and motivating than Jessica. Her work in higher education is a
testimony to her love of people. She had devoted her life to bettering others lives. As a life
long leaner herself, Jessica is an example to the students she inspires and continues to better
herself. She is a person who “walks the walk.†She is always striving to be better, to
educate herself about our world’s issues, to hear both sides of the conversation, to
deliberate, and draw conclusions based on facts, evidence, and with what is best for people at
the forefront of all of her considerations. Jessica is a leader. Her time at Colorado State
University has proven her leadership and love of Fort Collins. It would be such an incredibly
positive step to have Jessica serve on City Council for such an incredible city.
2.2
Packet Pg. 176 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 10:36:45 PM
Name
Joshua Stillahn
Email
jstxhn@outlook.com
Phone
970-556-3833
Address
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I've known Jessica Dyrdahl for about 3 years, having first crossed paths with her at a Bike-to-
Work event in town. She's compassionate, listens really well, and has a real knack for
engaging with people. She knows how to use her experience and resources to lift up the people
around her. These are all qualities that serve the Fort Collins City Council, and Jessica would
be a great resource for District 4!
2.2
Packet Pg. 177 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Elaine Branjord
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Comment on candidates for District #$ City Council
Date:Wednesday, January 6, 2021 3:54:48 PM
'Afternoon,
I am writing to submit my input on the selection of District #4 City Council
member. My husband and I moved to Fort Collins 9 years ago and have
taken an active interest in city issues. We appreciate the role the
residents have in making Council decisions.
I would like to express our support for two candidates. Both Erin
Hottenstein and Melanie Potyondy demonstrate a sincere and thoughtful
interest in the welfare of the residents of Fort Collins. The City Council will
decide now for a temporary position and then voters in District 4 will make
the decision after more thorough public analyses. Melanie's experience as
a union leader impresses me greatly and Erin's experience as a reporter
would be helpful to make them good local representatives. Both women
have excellent communication skills and, I am sure, would be open to
interacting with District #4 residents.
Thank you for consideration,
Elaine and Dennis Branjord
4720 Prairie Vista Drive
Fort Collin, CO 80526
H 970-682-2727
C 970-310-4428
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can
change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has...
Margaret Mead
2.2
Packet Pg. 178 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Alex Harris
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Erin Hottenstein
Date:Wednesday, January 6, 2021 12:08:56 PM
Dear City Council Members,
You have the privilege of selecting the best candidate from a slate of very capable candidates to fill a seat
on the Fort Collins City Council. Erin Hottenstein is the best of the field in terms of being experienced,
knowledgeable, and ready on day one. You have her resume that clearly delineates the skills she brings
to this position. It is clear in her resume that she has the poise and maturity to stand firm with respect
and integrity when up against a challenge. What I hope you will discover when you interview Erin is that
aside from being infinitely capable, she is a warm, thoughtful, kind person - a person you will enjoy getting
to know and to work with.
Best,
Alex Harris
2.2
Packet Pg. 179 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Alice Madden
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Recommendation of Erin Hottenstein to fill the vacancy on the Fort Collins City Council
Date:Wednesday, January 6, 2021 10:27:07 AM
Greetings,
I first met Erin Hottenstein at a Colorado 50-50 Social in Dillon in 2019 when I was
running for U.S. Senate. I was impressed with her enthusiasm for helping women run for
office, and her ability to organize events and bring people together. We have stayed
connected since then, and I have seen her tireless efforts via Colorado 50-50 to provide
election information and encourage voter turnout. Erin is a convener, an innovator, and
a true public servant. In my years as a Colorado legislator and House Majority Leader, I
saw many candidates. Erin is highly qualified and I am happy to endorse her for the
vacancy on the Fort Collins City Council.
Perhaps most importantly, she will approach the job with humility and the
understanding that it is truly a privilege to serve.
All the best,
Alice Madden
Louisville, Colorado
2.2
Packet Pg. 180 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Brian Woodruff
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Recommending Erin Hottenstein for Council
Date:Wednesday, January 6, 2021 2:53:50 PM
Dear City Leaders,
I am writing to recommend Erin Hottenstein for the seat on City Council
vacated by Kristen Stephens. You have a difficult job picking a candidate from
the marvelous slate of candidates. Erin is the best choice because she is a
proven leader, has experience covering city governments, she is bright,
articulate, a good listener and does her homework. She knows when to listen and
is a team player. All these candidates are worthy, but Erin stands above them all
in her readiness to immediately step into the position, ready to work with you.
I strongly recommend you choose Erin Hottenstein for this position.
Sincerely yours, Brian Woodruff
-- ======================BRIAN WOODRUFF970.224.5443 [home]970.829.7291 [mobile]2825 Dixon Creek LnFort Collins,CO 80526ruffwood47@gmail.com======================
2.2
Packet Pg. 181 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Eleanor VanDeusen
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Recommendation for Erin Hottenstein
Date:Wednesday, January 6, 2021 12:29:33 PM
Dear City Council, I am writing to support Erin Hottenstein for the District 6 City Council vacancy.
I have known Erin for many years through her involvement in our congregation and her past leadership as the President of our Board of Trustees. Erin is a proven leader and a skilled communicator. Her resume speaks to her years of experience and ability to get things done. I know Erin personally and can speak to how wonderful she is to work with. She is a coalition builder who collaborates well and delivers results. Her integrity is beyond question.
I can't think of anyone better to serve on City Council. I highly recommend her to fill the District 6 vacancy.
--
In faith & service,
Eleanor VanDeusen
she/her/hers
LREDA Board Member at Large - Continental Events
Director of Family Ministry
Foothills Unitarian Church
Fort Collins CO
970-213-0983
2.2
Packet Pg. 182 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Holly Tarry
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] District 4 Vacancy- Support for Erin Hottenstein
Date:Wednesday, January 6, 2021 11:38:55 AM
Hello,
I am a Fort Collins resident and want to express my unequivocal support for Erin
Hottenstein to fill the district 4 vacancy. I have known Erin for several years and
experience her as someone who does what she says she's going to do, takes time to
understand complex issues, has the courage to take a stand, and is passionate about
leading.
Erin's background in journalism is obvious in everything she does. She is a
thorough and relentless miner of facts and understands the value of digging deep into
a topic instead of just placating the loudest voices. Erin can navigate nuance, unite
diverse perspectives and get things done. I am always surprised by the level of
optimism and enthusiasm Erin brings to every project. Her approach is a refreshing
change from the politics-by-anger approach that seems to be growing more and more
common.
We need leaders like Erin now more than ever and I can't say enough about how
strongly I recommend her appointment to the vacancy.
Thank you for your time and consideration,
Holly Tarry
--
Sent with Mixmax
2.2
Packet Pg. 183 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:KAY WILLIAMS
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Please Select Erin Hottenstein!
Date:Wednesday, January 6, 2021 2:36:12 PM
Dear City Leaders,
Please select Erin Hottenstein for the vacant city council seat. Erin is committed to
serving this community, she has extensive leadership experience, she knows how city
government works, and she is a team player. Her resume contains all the details of
her experiences. Please note that she founded Colorado 50-50 and has been helping
women get elected to various elected positions around the state
for four years. Erin wants to serve herself, now, and well into the future. You have the
opportunity to launch Erin’s long and committed future of service.
I strongly urge you to choose Erin Hottenstein. Thank You!
Sincerely,
Kay E. Williams
District 4
2.2
Packet Pg. 184 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Peggy Reeves
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Erin Hottenstein for Council Vacancy
Date:Wednesday, January 6, 2021 11:21:18 AM
Dear Mayor and Council Members,
Please consider appointing Erin Hottenstein to Council District 4.
She is an emerging leader with strong organizational and communication skills. She
is involved in a small family owned business so understands the struggles that many
here are facing.
She has a real commitment to Fort Collins, volunteering in her children's schools and
serving on both public and private boards.
I think you will find her a great asset to the Council and to the City. She's solid,
grounded in the community, works well with others and will contribute to the
discussions on policy issues that are important to our community.
Thanks for your consideration of Erin.
Sincerely,
Peggy Reeves
Last night I zoomed into your Council meeting but was recognized at the wrong time
and was not called on during the comment session. My hand raising skills are not the
best. I did enjoy observing you and remembering my time on the Council many years
ago. Thank you for your service.
2.2
Packet Pg. 185 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Sally Harris
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Support for Erin Hottenstein
Date:Wednesday, January 6, 2021 12:38:54 PM
Dear City Council Members,
I strongly support Erin Hottenstein being appointed to City Council. I have had the pleasure
of serving alongside Erin on the Colorado 50-50 steering committee.
Erin founded Colorado 50-50 in 2017 in order to achieve 50/50 parity in election and
appointments to political office, boards and commissions. Erin has been a stalwart champion
in this cause, organizing training for potential candidates, training for campaign workers, and
socials where citizens, interested candidates, and elected officials have an opportunity to meet
and inform each other. These events have taken place in Larimer County, Weld County,
Denver County and El Paso County. Erin is passionate about getting out the vote and provides
accurate information on voting using her expertise from being an election judge.
Colorado 50-50 encourages women of all backgrounds to run. Erin ensured that Colorado 50-
50 had a showing of the movie "Councilwoman," which highlighted all the challenges that
women faced and overcame, to Fort Collins. We partnered with Alianza Norco, Fuerza
Latina, and the League of Women Voters. It was a fabulous event with a cross-cultural
turnout. Colorado 50-50 also showed this documentary in Longmont. Erin's posts on
Facebook are bilingual, which helps to reach an even wider audience. Erin continues to
provide useful public health information even after she was not successful in running for the
Health District.
Erin is a passionate leader who is a pleasure to work with. She comes to the meetings well
prepared, has a concise agenda, sticks to the allotted meeting time, asks relevant questions,
collaborates well and is highly effective. Erin is a great listener and takes the time to fully
research all issues that come before her. I think she will make an excellent addition to City
Council.
Sincerely,
Sally Harris
--
Sally Harris
Pronouns: she / her / hers (learn more)
2.2
Packet Pg. 186 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Scott Denning
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Recommending Erin Hottenstein for Council
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 6:05:03 PM
Dear City Leaders,
I’m writing to recommend Erin Hottenstein to fill the temporarily vacant seat on City Council.
I have known Erin for about a decade and worked very closely with her for three years when she served as President
of the Board of Trustees at Foothills Unitarian Church. I served as Trustee and Treasurer during her tenure as
President of the Board.
Erin led our church during a very tumultuous time. Our membership has exploded in recent years, from about 100
households when I started there in the 1980s to more than 1000 members and (financially contributing) friends
today. Our minister of 23 years retired in 2014, after being the only pastor many of our members had ever known.
Our annual budget also increased by about a factor of 10 during this time and we embarked on a nationwide search
for a new minister during my time son the Board. We also took on a huge Capital Campaign for our physical plant
and raised about $8 million.
In addition to presiding over the generational change in our professional leadership, Erin also led us through not one
but two incredibly difficult personnel crises during her tenure as President. Her steady hand, calm and professional
manner, and outstanding organizational skills allowed us to navigate what could have been an existential crisis for
this institution that has been part of Fort Collins for more than 120 years.
As you might imagine, a period of very rapid growth in both numbers and financial resources can provoke anxiety
and fear as well as excitement. Erin is a professional change manager and was incredibly helpful to our organization
as we embraced the changes in our staff, population, and financial situation. She is friendly and collegial while also
very focused on finding optimal ways through difficult deliberations.
Erin is committed to managing the opportunities and challenges of growth in Fort Collins. We have spent hundreds
of hours together and I am very pleased with her commitment to climate action and to navigating the Climate Action
Plan for Fort Collins.
I have lived in Fort Collins since 1979 and seen our population triple during my time here. I have known many
many city leaders and am aware of the tensions we have around growth, the environment, and our quality of life. I
believe Erin Hottenstein is an outstanding candidate to work with the rest of our leadership as you navigate the
major changes ahead.
Sincerely,
A. Scott Denning PhD
2.2
Packet Pg. 187 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Sean Neil-Barron
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Erin Hottenstein to fill the Vacancy on Council
Date:Wednesday, January 6, 2021 1:21:13 PM
Dear City Council Members,
I’m supporting Erin Hottenstein - who is applying to serve on City Council - for her
leadership, community service, and experience.
I've seen what an amazing leader Erin is with her time at Foothills Unitarian Church and in
creating Colorado 50-50, a nonpartisan organization that encourages women to run for office
and helps get out the vote.
Erin is well versed at conducting official meetings before large crowds, listening to all sides,
and explaining things clearly.
Erin is passionate about local government, connected, has a responsive vision for Fort Collins
and would be a welcome addition to City Council.
Best,
Sean Neil-Barron
Rev. Sean Neil-Barron
he /him / his
Associate Minister
Foothills Unitarian Church
m:617.817.0531
e:sean@foothillsuu.org
2.2
Packet Pg. 188 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Susan Goldman
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Erin Hottenstein
Date:Wednesday, January 6, 2021 9:20:23 PM
Dear City Council,
I am supporting Erin Hottenstein, who is applying to serve on City Council. Not only does
Erin have depth and breadth of relevant experience, she also has demonstrated outstanding
leadership skills and exemplary community service.
Erin is a long-term resident of Fort Collins and has been for many years active in community
service. She has volunteered in the schools and for other ad hoc events and causes and has
raised money for non-profits. Her experience ranges from award-winning journalism (put to
use in the community as a healthcare reporter for the Northern Colorado Business Report) to
founding Colorado 50/50, a group that encourages women to get on a path to leadership. Erin
has served as a leader in her church and served two years as President of its Board of Trustees.
She is reliable, keeps her commitments, and is even keeled. As a professional trainer and
facilitator, Erin has excellent communication skills, is a great listener, and is an experienced
public speaker. She brings clarity of thought to her processes. She is also a small business
owner. In short, Erin is a trustworthy leader with a deep well of experience who is a service-
oriented community member that cares about her city. She would serve the City of Fort
Collins well.
Sincerely,
Susan Goldman
2.2
Packet Pg. 189 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
January 6, 2021
Dear City of Fort Collins Leadership,
It is a pleasure to recommend Erin Hottenstein for District 4 City Councilmember.
I have come to know Erin over the past four years through my involvement with IndivisibleNOCO, a
grassroots group committed to civic engagement. Erin is an excellent candidate to continue Kristin
Stephens’ outstanding work representing Fort Collins District 4.
Erin is committed to our community and to public service on our behalf. For example, last year, Erin ran
for the Board of Directors of the Health District of Northern Larimer County, after serving for two years
on the Compass Advisory Board. She ran to help call attention to the Health District and its role in public
health. Although she lost, her interest in community health is evidenced by her regular participation at
the Health District meetings.
Erin’s resume demonstrates her strong background in leadership and organizational skills, which she put
to use in founding Colorado 50-50, a non-partisan educational group with the mission of increasing the
number of women represented in community leadership. Colorado 50-50 has held events and training
sessions with over 600 people, many of whom have run for and attained public office. I attended an
early training session and was impressed by the level of professionalism and the quality of the training,
as well as her commitment to a truly non-partisan organization.
Erin will contribute perspective and balance to the City Council. Like Kristin Stephens, she is acutely
aware that she represents all of District 4, not just those individuals who align with her political views.
Erin has an ability to consider all sides of complex issues and develop solutions that reflect an optimal
outcome without compromising her values. Growth is exacerbating some long-running issues in Fort
Collins, such as transportation, affordable housing, and homelessness. We need someone who can
consider competing needs and interests and develop pragmatic approaches to addressing these issues. I
know Erin is such a person.
Erin has been an active participant in IndivisibleNOCO planning sessions for various activities (e.g.,
candidate forums, get-out-the-vote campaigns and strategic planning), and we have come to value her
input and astute advice to address issues and challenges we face.
Thoughtful, intelligent and skilled leadership has made our City the best place in our country to live.
COVID-19 has threatened some of the things that make our community great, especially our small
businesses. Erin will bring her values, talents and experiences to City Council to help solve these and
other difficult challenges. The City of Fort Collins will be lucky to have Erin on its City Council.
Best Regards,
Monica Lynn
2015 Kerry Hill Dr.
Fort Collins, CO 80525
monicaglynn@msn.com
2.2
Packet Pg. 190 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 6:37:10 PM
Name
Anne Haro Sipes
Email
anneharosipes@msn.com
Phone
9702183437
Address
801 Benthaven Street
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I recommend Veronica Olivas for the City Council. I have known Veronica 23 years. She is
compassionate, hard-working, dedicated, tenacious and kind. She will put the needs of the
people of Fort Collins first in making each of her decisions and will be an asset to the city. I
recommend appointing Veronica to the City Council. Thank you.
2.2
Packet Pg. 191 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 5:40:51 PM
Name
Brian Sedlak
Email
brian.sedlak@colostate.edu
Phone
9705671347
Address
6030 Facilities Management
Fort Collins, CO 80523
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I have had the pleasure of working with Veronica Olivas for over 10 years at Colorado State
University. If I was given one word to describe Veronica, it would be dedication. Veronica
always goes over and beyond expectations to ensure she can affect constructive change while
maintaining a strong sense of security and life safety. If the situation calls for it, Veronica is
the type of person that will work all hours of the night without hesitation to be to accomplish
the mission with a positive attitude the entire time. Veronica is a highly analytical person. She
has a keen ability take a problem, analyze the possible decisions and risks associated with
these decisions, and to come up with a positive solution. Veronica can excel in this area and
others because of her excellent written and verbal communication skills. I believe the City and
the City Councilmembers would really benefit from the skills and perspective that Veronica
would be able to provide if she were elected.
2.2
Packet Pg. 192 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 5:53:51 PM
Name
Jennifer Brost
Email
j.brost@comcast.net
Phone
970-566-0281
Address
300 Dunne Drive
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I have known Shirley Peel for over two decades. We have served in several community
projects and I taught in the school she established. She has been a mentor to many, including,
the many children who moved through the school doors, the parents who felt comfortable
sharing their trials, the teachers and staff, and friends who are in need of wise counsel. She
also has made herself available to struggling college students. I have witnessed and been under
her focused, humble leadership. Shirley is also an attentive wife and mother. She works
alongside her husband with respect and supports her children with love and guidance. I know
if she is given the position on City Counsel, she will use her gifts as a team leader and problem
solver to mindfully, and passionately help make Fort Collins a City to be proud of.
2.2
Packet Pg. 193 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Dmnoden
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Public Comment in Support of Melanie Potyondy for the District 4 Vacancy
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 4:33:40 PM
Good afternoon,
My name is Dustin Noden and I am writing to voice my support for Melanie Potyondy for the district 4 vacancy. As
a resident of district 4, I would like to spend a moment describing my knowledge of Dr. Potyondy’s personal
characteristics, as well as her professional capabilities, which I have been lucky enough to witness firsthand.
I am currently employed as a teacher in the Integrated Services department at Rocky Mountain High School. I have
had the pleasure of working alongside Dr. P. for over four years. I serve the highest need students in our building
and Dr. Potyondy has worked tirelessly as a member of our team to help build a future with and advocate for my
students. She is a warm, patient, kind individual who also knows when it’s time to speak up for the unheard voices
in the room and stand by what is right when presented with a difficult situation or conversation. She respects all
stakeholders, but knows when it is time to bring her voice to the conversation. I trust Dr. Potyondy to both lead and
assist during IEP meetings, and if you know anything about those, that statement speaks volumes.
Personally, I can say that Dr. Potyondy is a kind, caring individual with the best intention for our district in mind.
She is passionate about what she believes in and is willing and able to speak to her point of view, all the while
welcoming others to speak theirs. She is open minded, driven, and invested in what she sets her mind to. I have no
doubt that she would do what is best for our district, while simultaneously honoring and respecting other view points
in the room. She is capable of doing this work and would pour her heart into it without being asked.
Please consider Melanie Potyondy for this position. You will not be sorry.
Thank you for time. If you need any further information from me, please feel free to reach out.
Have a great day and good luck with your decision.
Dustin Noden
Integrated Services Teacher
Rocky Mountain High School
2.2
Packet Pg. 194 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Smith, Hal L.
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] City Council District 4 vacancy
Date:Wednesday, January 6, 2021 11:33:49 AM
I am writing to express my support for Melanie Potyondy for the City Council District 4 vacancy. I
believe she has the experience, skills, and values that make her the most suitable person to fill this
position.
Hal Smith
Sent from Mail for Windows 10
2.2
Packet Pg. 195 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 5:22:53 PM
Name
Joshua Ring
Email
ring.joshua@gmail.com
Phone
9702325521
Address
1339 Woodview Place
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
Hello esteemed Council members, I am writing today in support of Dr. Melanie Potyondy. As
I am not able to be present for 'live', video comments, please accept this note in lieu of any
spoken words I would present on her behalf. I have had the privilege of working closely with
Dr. Potyondy, or Melanie for numerous years at Rocky Mountain High School. Melanie has
through direct action become a reliable and integral part of many facets of our school and
larger community. Melanie's reputation is one of positivity, professionalism, integrity, and
inspiring work ethic. As many faculty, staff, and students at Rocky could attest, Melanie
successfully works beyond the confines of her specific role at our school- that is to say, she is
capable of a vast number of responsibilities that she maintains to an enviable degree. Within
the walls and out of Rocky Mountain High School, I have also had the pleasure of working
with Melanie in the Poudre Education Association. It is here that one can witness Melanie's
ambition to seek creative solutions to improve elements of our school district, all the while
having the vision to recognize the aspects that are currently successful and meaningful for the
community. Melanie champions education and works tirelessly, cementing her legacy as a
leader in the Fort Collins community. I support Dr. Melanie Potyondy for Fort Collins City
Council without reservation. I would be happy to answer any follow up questions or provide
further commentary- please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you, Joshua Ring
2.2
Packet Pg. 196 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:FCGov Contact Form
To:Delynn Coldiron
Subject:Applicant Feedback
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 6:17:33 PM
Name
Kaitlin Patterson
Email
kaitielousimp@gmail.com
Phone
9709880873
Address
7020 Woodrow drive
Fort Collins , CO 80525
Please provide comments on any of the applicants. Your feedback will be shared with
City Council.
I work with Dr. Melanie Potyondy. She is an upstanding employee, extremely professional,
mommy dedicated to students and staff and is constantly working with the community to
educate them about needs within the community. I could not come up with a better
application.
2.2
Packet Pg. 197 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Max Ayars
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] City Council Applicant
Date:Wednesday, January 6, 2021 1:57:34 PM
Dear Council Members,
I am writing to you regarding the candidate to represent Fort Collins City Council in District 4. I
strongly believe Melanie Potyondy to be the best imaginable person to fill this position. Melanie is
dedicated to our community and local government but also as a public educator and mental health
professional she is more than qualified for the position and these life experiences equate well to the
challenges and aspirations of the people of our city.
She is passionate about the community and creating a city that keeps families working, playing,
learning and living in Fort Collins. I strongly feel that Melanie Potyondy would work very hard for the
residents of District 4 and the entire city. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Maxwell Ayars
2.2
Packet Pg. 198 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
From:Mogorit, Patty - RMH
To:City Leaders
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Melanie Potyondy-District 4
Date:Tuesday, January 5, 2021 4:38:01 PM
Hello and thank you to our City Council for all that you do on our behalf in Fort Collins!
My name is Patty Mogorit. I live in District 4 and work as a school counselor at Rocky Mountain High
School and feel so fortunate to know and work with Melanie at Rocky.
Melanie would be a remarkable asset to District 4 for many reasons:
Melanie is a wonderful professional, extremely active, a great listener and communicator. She lifts
up and supports our most vulnerable Rocky students each day and somehow squeezes in time to
continually lift up and support Rocky staff every chance she gets! I have had an extremely difficult
student on my caseload and without her expertise and time to help him and to guide me, I would
have found myself completely overwhelmed with his extreme mental health issues. Melanie has
keen insight and great knowledge in both mental health and equity and diversity concerns. She
works to help people here in Fort Collins in numerous ways including her work in education, in the
mental health arena, volunteering and bettering our schools and community at every turn.
Melanie is approachable, compassionate, extremely personable and District 4 and my Poudre
District colleagues look forward to her future representation!
Thank you for your time,
Patty Mogorit
Counselor, Rocky Mountain High School
Sent from Mail for Windows 10
2.2
Packet Pg. 199 Attachment: Community Feedback on Applicants (9878 : District 4 Council Vacancy Appointment)
-1-
RESOLUTION 2021-007
OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
MAKING AN APPOINTMENT TO FILL A
VACANCY FOR COUNCILMEMBER FOR DISTRICT 4
ON THE FORT COLLINS COUNCIL
WHEREAS, a vacancy for Council District 4 was created by the resignation of Mayor Pro
Tem Kristin Stephens effective at the end of December 31, 2020; and
WHEREAS, the City Charter provides that the City Council shall fill such vacancy by
appointment within forty-five days, and that the appointed Councilmember shall serve until the
next regular election, when District 4 voters will elect a Council representative for the remainder
of the partial four-year term; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has carefully considered a number of applications received
from qualified District 4 residents to fill such vacancy and has interviewed such applicants; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to make an appointment to fill said vacancy on the
Fort Collins City Council to serve until the District 4 voters elect a representative at the April 6,
2021, regular municipal election, and the elected individual has taken office.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT
COLLINS that _________________________ is hereby appointed to fill the vacancy created by
the resignation of Mayor Pro Tem Kristin Stephens and to serve as District 4 Councilmember on
the Fort Collins City Council until an elected representative for District 4 has taken office to
complete the remainder of the current four-year term following the April 6, 2021, regular
municipal election.
Passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the Council of the City of Fort Collins this 12th
day of January, A.D. 2021.
__________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________
City Clerk
City of Fort Collins Page 1
Wade Troxell, Mayor Remote Meeting
Ross Cunniff, District 5, Mayor Pro Tem City Hall West
Susan Gutowsky, District 1 300 LaPorte Avenue
Julie Pignataro, District 2 Fort Collins, Colorado
Ken Summers, District 3
Vacant, District 4 Cablecast on FCTV Channel 14
Emily Gorgol, District 6 and Channel 881 on the Comcast cable system
Carrie Daggett Darin Atteberry Delynn Coldiron
City Attorney City Manager City Clerk
Upon request, the City of Fort Collins will provide language access services for individuals who have limited English
proficiency, or auxiliary aids and services for individuals with disabilities, to access City services, programs and
activities. Contact 221-6515 (V/TDD: Dial 711 for Relay Colorado) for assistance. Please provide 48 hours advance
notice when possible.
A petición, la Ciudad de Fort Collins proporcionará servicios de acceso a idiomas para personas que no dominan el
idioma inglés, o ayudas y servicios auxiliares para personas con discapacidad, para que puedan acceder a los
servicios, programas y actividades de la Ciudad. Para asistencia, llame al 221-6515 (V/TDD: Marque 711 para Relay
Colorado). Por favor proporcione 48 horas de aviso previo cuando sea posible.
City Council Work Session
January 12, 2021
(After the Adjourned Council meeting, which begins at 6:00 p.m.)
• CALL TO ORDER.
1. Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance. (staff: Molly Saylor, Jackie Kozak Thiel; 10
minute presentation; 50 minute discussion)
The purpose of this item is to request Councilmember feedback on a draft bag ordinance, banning
plastic bags and setting a fee on paper bags at large grocers to begin May 1, 2022.
• ANNOUNCEMENTS.
• ADJOURNMENT.
DATE:
STAFF:
January 12, 2021
Molly Saylor, Senior Sustainability Specialist
WORK SESSION ITEM
City Council
SUBJECT FOR DISCUSSION
Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this item is to request Councilmember feedback on a draft bag ordinance, banning plastic bags
and setting a fee on paper bags at large grocers to begin May 1, 2022.
GENERAL DIRECTION SOUGHT AND SPECIFIC QUESTIONS TO BE ANSWERED
1. Do Councilmembers have input regarding the fee per paper bag at 10 cents, 20 cents, or an amount in
between?
2. Do Councilmembers support staff’s recommendations on key policy and related program details?
• City and grocer each retain 50% of the fee.
• Fee revenue supports costs of new plastic pollution mitigation and solid waste reduction program.
• Income-qualified exemption for residents who participate in income-qualified federal, state, or county
assistance programs, including WIC and SNAP.
• Provide resources to support the program before ordinance implementation.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION
Reducing Plastics Pollution is an adopted Council Priority, which aligns with the community’s Road to Zero Waste
goal to produce zero waste by 2030 as well as the goal to sustain and improve the health of the Cache la Poudre
River and watershed.
Past Council Action
• Work Session
o February 11, 2020 - Staff provided plastic pollution context and learnings from peer communities. Council
provided feedback on action both on micro and macro pollution.
o October 27, 2020 - Staff provided a progress update on plastic pollution awareness work, including
impacts of COVID-19 on plastic use, policy development and community engagement, and a staff
recommendation. Councilmembers indicated interest in moving plastic bag policy to a ballot measure.
o December 8, 2020 - Staff provided Council a suite of policy options for a plastic pollution ordinance and
related ballot measure. Council provided feedback on these policy elements and other logistics.
(Attachment 1)
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January 12, 2021 Page 2
• Regular Meeting
o December 15, 2020 - Councilmembers adopted a resolution directing staff to draft an ordinance for
Council to discuss at this work session.
The attached draft ordinance includes the details as specified by Council on December 15, 2020, including:
• Hybrid approach - ban plastic bags, fee on paper
• Large grocers
• Staff recommended base case (Figure 1)
Figure 1. Staff recommended base case
There are a few remaining choices for how certain policy elements will be included in the ordinance and related
considerations. These are outlined below as “Key Policy Elements” and the rest are wrapped into “Staff
recommendations on key policy details.” Further description of fee details, income-qualified relief, recommended
resourcing for 2021, and other supporting information are presented as attachments.
Key Policy Element for Council Feedback
Fee amount (Attachment 2):
• 10-cent fee on paper bags, collected at the point of sale.
• 20-cent fee on paper bags, collected at the point of sale.
• An amount between 10 and 20 cents.
• Considerations:
o The attached draft ordinance uses 20 cents as a placeholder pending Council feedback.
o There is sufficient nexus between City costs and fee revenue to support either 10 or 20 cents (or an
amount in between).
o A ten cent fee is the most common amount on bags for Colorado cities and balances financial impact to
low- and medium-income households with environmental outcomes.
o A twenty cent fee has the highest rate of behavior change to reusable bags, the best environmental
outcome.
o Fee may be shared with grocers (discussed below)
Staff Recommendations on Key Policy Details
Fee elements (Attachment 2):
• Fee structure:
o Recommendation: City and grocers each retain 50% of the fee.
o Context of recommendation:
▪ Both the City and grocers will have new costs due to the ordinance and this allows both entities to
recover those costs.
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January 12, 2021 Page 3
▪ This recommendation acknowledges that data around grocer costs from other cities ranges.
Combining a required grocer fee revenue plan and a 50-50 split allows costs to be explored in
collaboration.
• Fee revenue:
o Recommendation: This ordinance creates a new plastic pollution mitigation and solid waste reduction
program to which City fee revenue would be applied, including the following costs:
▪ Costs to administer and enforce ordinance; conduct community wide engagement about the
ordinance;
▪ Provide reusable bags to low-moderate income residents and then the broader community;
▪ Existing litter pick up, stormwater, and street sweeping costs related to single-use items;
▪ Existing paper and plastic bag recycling costs at the Timberline Recycling Center;
▪ Expanded equitable engagement, outreach, and community partnerships; and
▪ Solid waste reduction and recycling efforts, including but not limited to encouraging reuse and
reduction efforts targeting single-use items.
o Context of recommendation:
▪ Recovers ongoing costs related to single-use bags and other items;
▪ Supports distributing reusable bags to community members who may not otherwise have them;
▪ Creates opportunities for community partnerships, recognizing in some cases that partners can have
a deeper impact on waste reduction and recycling goals and help the City scale more rapidly;
▪ Recognizes the interconnected nature of waste management and recycling systems and allows staff
flexibility to use fee revenue on the most strategic interventions; and
▪ Incorporates lessons learned from other cities whose costs were defined too narrowly.
Income qualified fee exemption
• Recommendation: Residents who participate in federal, state or county income-qualified assistance programs
including WIC and SNAP who provide benefit cards at the point of sale would be exempt from the paper bag
fee. (Attachment 3)
o The City would prioritize reusable bag distribution to recipients of WIC and SNAP as well as those
enrolled in other income-qualified programs, including City programs.
▪ Context of recommendation: (Attachment 3)
Funding implementation
• Recommendation: Provide resources to start implementing the program before the fee starts. (After fee is
implemented, all program costs will be funded through fee revenue.)
o Process:
1) Councilmembers can adopt a one-time funding off-cycle budget allocation via ordinance concurrent
with the single use bag ordinance in Feb 2021.
2) Staff will write a 2022 BFO offer to fund implementation that may be sourced from the general fund or
from fee revenue, pending logistics and timing.
o Staff recommends funding Scenario 2 ($87,500 in 2021). Council may also select funding Scenario 1
($70,000 in 2021).
▪ Context of recommendation: (Attachment 4)
Survey Responses to Date
Initial survey results to date (e.g. summary statistics and comments) are included. (Attachment 5) Further survey
data, comments, and demographics will be shared as a read-before memo prior to the work session to give the
community as much time as possible to provide feedback.
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January 12, 2021 Page 4
Future Steps Towards a Comprehensive Approach
Once the major impacts of COVID have subsided, an anticipated six to nine months of engagement and work with
the community would likely be required (to allow time for equitable engagement early in the process) before
bringing additional single use plastic reduction options for Council feedback. Potential next steps regarding
utensils and accessory items and expanded polystyrene items are included. (Attachment 6)
Next Steps
Staff anticipates the following next steps:
• Online engagement on OurCity (<https://ourcity.fcgov.com/plastics>) around the Council-preferred elements
of a plastic policy.
o With the timing of the April election, online engagement is live and will need to end on January 31 so
Council can consider the ordinance on First Reading on February 2 and Second Reading on February 16.
• Updates to the ordinance draft based on Council feedback during January 12 Work Session.
• Feb 2 - First Reading of the plastic pollution ordinance and 2021 funding ordinance.
• Feb 16 - Second Reading of plastic pollution ordinance, resolution to refer the ordinance to the ballot as a
referendum, and 2021 funding ordinance.
o Note: At this point, Environmental Services staff can no longer conduct any engagement on the issue.
City Clerk’s office manages the logistics of the ballot process.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Work Session Summary - December 8, 2020 (PDF)
2. Fee Summary and Background (PDF)
3. Income-Qualified Relief (PDF)
4. Single Use Bag Policy Implementation Resourcing (PDF)
5. Summary of Survey Responses (PDF)
6. Potential Paths to Further Action on Plastic Pollution (PDF)
7. Draft Ordinance (PDF)
8. Powerpoint Presentation (PDF)
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Environmental Services
222 Laporte Ave.
PO Box 580
Fort Collins, CO 80522
970.221.6600
fcgov.com/environmental services
MEMORANDUM
Date:December 11, 2020
To:Mayor Troxell and City Councilmembers
Thru:Darin Atteberry, City Manager
Jacqueline Kozak Thiel, Chief Sustainability Officer
Lucinda Smith, Environmental Services Director
From:Molly Saylor, Senior Specialist, Environmental Sustainability
Re:December 8, 2020 Work Session Summary: Single Use Plastics Ballot Item
Discussion
Attendees: All Councilmembers were present virtually.
Staff presented options for Council to consider as part of a potential future ballot item on single use
plastics. Key discussion points:
x There were different perspectives shared on the options presented.
x Some Councilmembers expressed preferences for
o passing an ordinance banning plastic bags and putting a fee on paper bags at large
grocers in Fort Collins (hybrid approach).
o referring the adopted ordinance to a vote at the April election.
x Some Councilmembers expressed interest in
o including expanded polystyrene take-out containers in the ordinance.
o addressing other items and concern about the timing with the pressures on small business
due to COVID-19.
o including equity considerations for low-income residents.
x Some Councilmembers shared
o an interest in addressing plastic pollution through innovation and circular economy
strategies.
o desire to see performance measures included in the plastic pollution ordinance.
o including expanded polystyrene take-out containers from franchise restaurants in the
ordinance.
Next steps:
x Dec 15 –Council consideration of a resolution to direct staff to develop an ordinance and ballot
language based on Council feedback from December 8
th.
x Dec 16 –Jan 31 –Online engagement on OurCity (https://ourcity.fcgov.com/plastics) around the
Council-preferred elements of a plastic policy.
x Jan 12 –Present ordinance and ballot language aligned to the Dec 15 resolution for Council
feedback.
x Feb 2 –First reading of the plastic pollution ordinance.
x Feb 16 –Second reading of plastic pollution ordinance and resolution to refer the ordinance to
the ballot as a referendum.
ATTACHMENT 1 1.1
Packet Pg. 6 Attachment: Work Session Summary - December 8, 2020 (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Attachment II: Fee Summary and Background
Cities imposing new fees are required to demonstrate a clear nexus between program costs incurred by
the City and the subject of the fee, in this case paper bags. This nexus has been defined in different ways
across Colorado and U.S. cities with a best practice being Aspen’s hybrid bag policy (see case study
below). Staff recommends aligning to the approach Aspen has taken and that has been upheld by
Colorado courts. The following fee summary reflects this approach and outlines the types of costs
associated with the new program created by the ordinance that would be recovered and potential fee
revenue.
Staff has also included alternatives for the fee structure as additional context to the recommendation
presented in the AIS.
Proposed Waste Reduction Program established by bag ordinance:
By passing the bag ordinance, Council would create a new plastic pollution mitigation and solid waste
reduction program, to which the fee revenue can be applied. The elements of this program include:
• the administration and operation of the Waste Reduction Program and administration
activities to collect all disposable bag fees;
• activities and campaigns conducted by the City (or a contracted vendor) to provide reusable
bags to residents and visitors, educate residents, businesses and visitors about the impact of
disposable bags, trash, single-use plastics and other waste on the waterways and
environment and on the health and welfare of its residents and visitors, the importance of
reducing the number of disposable bags entering the waste stream and to raise awareness
about waste reduction and recycling;
• community clean-up events, City activities, and other community-led activities to reduce or
mitigate solid waste and litter;
• programs and infrastructure to facilitate and encourage the community to reduce waste and
recycle, including community-led efforts;
• creating, expanding, and maintaining equitable outreach and engagement strategies,
including a public website to educate residents on the progress of waste reduction efforts;
• other activities directly related to the reduction of waste from disposable bags, trash, single-
use plastics and other waste and its impact on the waterways and environment within the city
and the Cache la Poudre watershed; and
• funding or providing other support for programs and activities conducted by others in
furtherance of these purposes.
The following section outlines the program costs that would be recovered and the Figure 1 establishes
the fee revenue nexus.
ATTACHMENT 2 1.2
Packet Pg. 7 Attachment: Fee Summary and Background (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Fee Summary - Staff Recommendation for Fort Collins Bag Fee Revenue
This draft fee summary was conducted internally by the Sustainability Services Senior Financial Analyst
and leverages baseline assumptions about plastic pollution mitigation and solid waste reduction program
costs created by the ordinance and fee structure examples from other cities. Key takeaways from the fee
summary include:
• Direct and indirect costs related to materials management, reduction, and recycling are significant
when considering expanding efforts to be equitable, to support community-led efforts, and when
considering infrastructure or capital investments.
• Based on the assumptions made here, the nexus cost per bag ranges from approximately 10 to
20 cents per bag.
• With current assumptions, the City will be able to recover annual direct and indirect costs on an
ongoing basis and could leverage higher fee revenue in the first few years for long-term capital
investments needed to reach waste goals.
The estimates shown in Figure 1 below represent staff’s recommendation to cover a broad range of
direct and indirect costs related to solid waste reduction and recycling, similar to Aspen’s fee (see case
study below).
Figure 1. Costs to the City for the new plastic pollution mitigation and solid waste reduction program:
Cost description Annual cost range (low) (high)
a. Cover the costs to administer, enforce and conduct
community wide engagement about the ordinance $260,000 $300,000
b. Provide reusable bags to both residents and visitors,
especially to low-moderate income residents and other
historically underrepresented groups $10,000 $30,000
c. Cover a portion of the costs of existing litter pick up,
stormwater, wastewater and street sweeping costs related to
single-use items $100,000 $150,000
d. Cover a portion of the costs of existing paper and plastic
film recycling costs at the Timberline Recycling Center $50,000 $100,000
e. Expanded equitable engagement, outreach, and
community partnership, including neighborhood and
community project funding as program and funding capacity
allow $175,000 $300,000
f. Solid waste reduction, recycling, plastic pollution
mitigation efforts, and infrastructure, including but not limited
to encouraging systems approaches to reuse and reduction
efforts targeting single-use items $200,000 $500,000
Total Cost $795,000 $1,380,000
Cost per Bag (50% retained by City; 75% reduction in
bags) $0.12 $0.21
1.2
Packet Pg. 8 Attachment: Fee Summary and Background (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Key assumptions and considerations:
• Above figures reflect estimations based on current cost structures that were provided as ranges
by the relevant finance analyst for each item. They do not reflect assumptions for how the costs
may alter over time.
• The low end of the range for each line item represents the more conservative estimate and the
high end represents more expanded programming.
• Details by cost
o (a.) Administration cost would cover staffing for 1.0 added classified FTE that would be
responsible for administering the ordinance, including outreach to and engagement with
residents and businesses as the ordinance is rolled out and for enforcement support, 1.0
added FTE for the first two years to support ordinance roll out, and the costs of marketing
and outreach campaign materials.
o (b.) Bags are assumed to cost approximately one dollar per bag. Based on staff
estimates and experiences distributing other items, it is reasonable to distribute three
bags per household to 3,000 households per year.
o (c.) Litter clean-up and other operational costs related to single-use plastic items and
paper bag litter were estimated by finance support for each service area. This is
presented as a wider range due to the challenge of estimating the exact percentage
represented by these items versus overall litter.
o (d.) Assumes a portion of the costs to collect and transfer plastic film, paper, and
cardboard for recycling at the Timberline Recycling Center.
o (e.) Assumes reimagined community engagement strategies such as: paid community
partner and ambassador programs to engage on the City’s behalf, reaching parts of the
community the City struggles to access; language justice and focus groups to ensure
culturally relevant campaigns; and neighborhood-scale community-led projects to
address barriers to waste reduction, reuse and recycling and encourage behavior
change.
o (f.) Investments in programs and infrastructure to protect waterways and natural areas,
reduce waste, encourage reuse, and enable local circular economy progress.
Infrastructure investments may include but are not limited to recycling center equipment
and compost facility development.
Figure 2. Revenue projections from the bag fee, assuming staff’s recommendation to retain 50% of the
fee.
Estimated Annual Revenue
Fee per paper bag $ 0.10 $ 0.20
Estimated Current Number of Paper and Plastic
Bags 52,500,000
Estimated Reduction in Bag Usage* 75% 75%
1.2
Packet Pg. 9 Attachment: Fee Summary and Background (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Fee Retained by City 50%
City Revenue $ 656,250 $ 1,312,500
* Based on results documented in Palo Alto
Key assumptions and considerations:
• Approximately 340 bags are used per person per year, resulting in an estimated 52,500,000 bags
per year0F1.
• Palo Alto saw their hybrid approach ultimately settle at a 75% reduction of paper bags (with no
plastic bags). The Fort Collins fee summary uses this data point to estimate long-term fee
revenue after the initial transition1F2.
• Some costs to the City are expected to taper as single-use bag use (and related fees) taper.
• Ten-cent and twenty-cent options are shown but other cities have used other amounts ranging
from five-cents up to twenty-five-cents.
• Staff recommends revisiting the level of fee to ensure it is set appropriately every 3-5 years
similar to other City fees
• Figures presented represent the base case analysis; staff also calculated scenarios with High,
Medium, and Low assumptions for existing bag usage (250-340 bags) and reduction in single-use
bags (50-90%) and found that in most scenarios, a fee between $0.10-0.20 would support the
minimum program costs.
Alternative approaches to fee structure
• Four cents retained by grocers, based on Boulder’s estimate that this is the actual cost to grocers
for providing the bag and administering the fee program.
o Considerations:
Data points used for Boulder’s estimate is based on costs from other cities and
sources ranging from approximately $0.01 to $0.10 with the average being $0.04.
It is unclear what the true costs to grocers in Fort Collins are and where they
would fall on this spectrum.
Allowing grocers to retain higher amounts of fee revenue may create an incentive
for them to sell paper bags rather than transition customers to reusable bags.
Increases the fee revenue to the City somewhat (10-cents scenario) or
significantly (20-cents scenario).
• All of the fee could be retained by grocers with 50% required to be used for providing customers
with reusable bags. This was the model used in the 2014 ordinance.
o Considerations:
May result in a surplus of reusable bags in the community creating waste and
causing bags to be discarded before the end of their useful lives.
Does not allow City to recover any direct or indirect costs of the ordinance
(enforcement, outreach, etc.)
1 From Brendle, 2012 and Wagner, T, 2017
2 Palo Alto https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civicax/filebank/documents/48074
1.2
Packet Pg. 10 Attachment: Fee Summary and Background (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Colorado and peer cities with hybrid policies in place:
• Aspen, CO***
• Avon, CO**
• Carbondale, CO***
• Steamboat Springs, CO***
• Telluride, CO**
• Vail, CO**
• Eugene, OR*
• Palo Alto, CA**
• Santa Barbara, CA**
• Tacoma, WA*
• Seattle, WA*
• San Francisco, CA****
Legend: * cities charging between 5 cents per paper bag; ** 10 cents, *** 20 cents, **** 25 cents
Case studies:
Aspen
• Key takeaways:
o Allows Aspen to recover costs for reducing waste and recycling, inclusive but not limited
to bag reduction costs
o Litigation of the Aspen fee upheld the program and related costs defined in ordinance
• Bag policy: Hybrid approach, banning plastic bags, fee on paper bags
• Fee amount: 20-cents per paper bag
• Ordinance language:
(f) The Waste Reduction Fee shall be administered by the City of Aspen Environmental
Health Department.
(g) Funds deposited in the Waste Reduction and Recycling Account shall be used for the
following projects, in the following order of priorities:
(1) Campaigns conducted by the City of Aspen and begun within three hundred sixty-five (365) days
of the effective date of this act, to:
Provide reusable carryout bags to residents and visitors;
And
Educate residents, businesses, and visitors about the impact of trash on the City's environmental health,
the importance of reducing the number of disposable carryout bags entering the waste stream, and the
impact of disposable carryout bags on the waterways and the environment.
(2) Ongoing campaigns conducted by the City of Aspen to:
a. Provide reusable bags to both residents and visitors; and
b. Create public educational campaigns to raise awareness about waste reduction and recycling;
c. Funding programs and infrastructure that allows the Aspen community to reduce waste and
recycle.
d. Purchasing and installing equipment designed to minimize trash pollution, including, recycling
containers, and waste receptacles;
e. Funding community cleanup events and other activities that reduce trash;
f. Maintaining a public website that educates residents on the progress of waste reduction efforts;
and
g. Paying for the administration of this program.
(h) The Fees shall not be used to supplant funds appropriated as part of an approved annual budget.
(i) No Waste Reduction Fee shall revert to the General Fund at the end of the fiscal year, or at any other
time, but shall be continually available for the uses and purposes set forth in Subsection (g) of this
Section without regard to fiscal year limitation.
1.2
Packet Pg. 11 Attachment: Fee Summary and Background (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Boulder
• Key takeaways:
o Outlines costs for recovery that are closely tied to bags.
o Staff has heard that Boulder has struggled to match the fee revenue to the narrowly
defined costs they identified for recovery.
• Bag policy: Fee on plastic and paper bags
• Fee amount: 10-cents per bag
• Ordinance language:
(g) Funds from the disposable bag fee shall be used only for the expenditures that are intended to
mitigate the effects of disposable bags, including, without limitation, the following:
(1) Administrative costs associated with developing and implementing the disposable bag fee.
(2) Activities of the City to:
(A) Provide reusable carryout bags to residents and visitors;
(B) Educate residents, businesses and visitors about the impact of disposable bags on
the City's environmental health, the importance of reducing the number of single-use
carryout bags entering the waste stream and the expenses associated with mitigating the
affects of single-use bags on the City's drainage system, transportation system, wildlife
and environment;
(C) Fund programs and infrastructure that allow the Boulder community to reduce waste
associated with disposable bags;
(D) Purchase and install equipment designed to minimize bag pollution, including
recycling containers and waste receptacles associated with disposable bags;
(E) Fund community cleanup events and other activities that reduce trash associated with
disposable bags;
(F) Mitigate the effects of disposable bags on the City's drainage system, transportation
system, wildlife and environment;
(G) Maintain a public website that educates residents on the progress of waste reduction
efforts associated with disposable bags; and
(H) Fund the administration of the disposable bag fee program.
(h) No disposable bag fees collected in accordance with this chapter shall be used only for general
government purposes.
(i) Disposable bag fees collected in accordance with this chapter shall be continually available for the
uses and purposes set forth in subsection (g) of this section without regard to fiscal year limitation. No
disposable bag fee funds shall be used for any purpose not authorized in this chapter.
1.2
Packet Pg. 12 Attachment: Fee Summary and Background (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
1
Attachment III: Income-Qualified Relief
Recommendation
The proposed bag ordinance includes a ban on plastic bags and a point-of-sale fee on paper
bags which impacts Fort Collins’ residents. Staff recommendations include accommodations for
our lowest earners and a two-pronged approach: 1) a cost exemption of the paper bag fee at
the point-of-sale to participants who provide a benefit card reflecting participation in Federal,
State, or County income -qualified aid programs to address the needs of low-income residents,
and 2) distribution of reusable bags for low- to moderate-income earners.
Context of Recommendations
Fee Exemption at Point of Sale to Participants in Federal, State, or County income-
qualified aid programs
The proposed ordinance states “A large grocer may provide a disposable paper bag to a
customer at no charge if the customer provides, at the time of purchase, a benefit card reflecting
participation in federal, state, or county income-qualified aid program including but not limited to
benefits delivered via Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) such as Supplemental Nutrition
Assistant Program (SNAP) or Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children
(WIC).”
The primary food assistance programs are described below.
SNAP- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
• The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a food assistance program in
Colorado, formerly known as Food Stamps. SNAP provides food assistance benefits as part
of a federal nutrition program to help low-income households purchase food. U.S. citizens
and some non-citizens are eligible for SNAP benefits. Even if so me members of the
household are not eligible, household members who are eligible may still be able to get
SNAP benefits.
• Proof of enrollment: CO Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card
• For a family of 4, SNAP covers households below 36% Fort Collins/Loveland Family Median
Income
WIC -The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children
• The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
provides Federal grants to States for supplemental foods, health care referrals, and nutrition
education for low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and non-breastfeeding postpartum
women, and to infants and children up to age five who are found to be at nutri tional risk. To
be eligible for this benefit program, you must be a resident of Colorado and one of the
following: Pregnant, or Breastfeeding, or Postpartum, or A child 5 years old or younger.
Individuals on Medicaid, TANF, SNAP or FDPIR are automatically income eligible.
• Proof of enrollment: CO Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card
• For a family of 4 in Fort Collins, WIC covers households below 52% of Fort Collins/Loveland
Family Median Income
SNAP/WIC Eligibility Guidelines in Fort Collins
Each state sets eligibility guidelines. The graphic below shows the eligibility requirements in
Colorado.
ATTACHMENT 3 1.3
Packet Pg. 13 Attachment: Income-Qualified Relief (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
2
Reusable Bag Distribution for Low to Moderate Income Residents
A portion of the revenue collected from the bag fee will be used by the City to purchase
reusable bags that will be distributed to low to moderate-income residents. The City will apply
an equity lens and partner with the community to create an equitable plan for distributing bags
to low-income households. This is likely to include working with non-profits and government
agencies such as the Food Bank, Homeward Alliance, Larimer County Workforce Center, etc.
to distribute bags. Reusable bags will also be distributed through affordable housing properties
and at public events hosted by the City and community nonprofits. Participants in all City
income-qualified programs will receive notification about reu sable bag distribution events. If
additional funding is made available in advance of receiving bag fee revenue, the City will
distribute reusable bags earlier.
1.3
Packet Pg. 14 Attachment: Income-Qualified Relief (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Attachment IV: Single Use Bag Policy Implementation Resourcing
Recommendation
To fund program implementation from June 2021 until bag fee revenue begins, staff
recommends an interim allocation. Staff recommends funding Scenario 2 ($87,500 in 2021),
and Councilmembers may also prefer funding Scenario 1 ($70,000 in 2021). If preferred by
Councilmembers, staff will:
• Develop off-cycle funding ordinance language to be considered simultaneous to the first
and second reading of the bag ordinance to fund implementation elements from Jun –
Dec 2021.
• Develop a BFO offer for the 2022 budget cycle for one-time funding for the
implementation elements from Jan – July 2022 (projected start date for bag fee revenue
to fund the program).0F
1
Context for Recommendation
To successfully roll out the single use bag policy in May 2022, work will begin in June 2021.
This attachment describes anticipated costs, which align with the assumptions made in the fee
summary attachment.
Funding could be provided via up to three different sources as shown in Figure 1.
Fig 1: Potential Funding Sources for Single Use Bags Policy Implementation
Date June 2021-Dec 2021 Jan 2022 – July 2022 June 2022 and
beyond
Proposed
funding
source
One-time off-cycle budget
allocation authorized by
ordinance in Feb 2021
BFO offer to be
developed for 2022 one-
time funding
Bag fee revenue
allocated through
BFO process
The communications and engagement campaign funding and number of bags purchased are
scalable. The following chart shows two potential scenarios.
1 It is possible that resource needs for 2022 could be covered by bag fee revenue, depending on timing and other
logistics. Staff is working to clarify but if fee revenue is not available, one-time funding from the general fund
would be necessary.
ATTACHMENT 4 1.4
Packet Pg. 15 Attachment: Single Use Bag Policy Implementation Resourcing (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Fig 2: Summary of Resource Scenarios for Single Use Bags Policy Implementation
Program element Scenario 1 Scenario 2
Reusable bags for low- and
medium-income households
$5,000 *
(3 bags each for 1,500
households)
$10,000 *
(3 bags each for 3,000
households)
Communications and
engagement campaigns
$30,000 *
moderate campaign
$60,000 *
substantial campaign
1.0 FTE to manage program $105,000 $105,000
Total costs in 2021 off-cycle $70,000 $87,500
Total costs in 2022 BFO
offer $70,000 $87,500
Total costs prior to fee
revenue funding availability $140,000 $175,000
* scalable based on Council direction
Element details
Staff
1.0 FTE classified staff member to
• roll out the program with community and grocers
• conduct equitable communications and engagement campaigns
• coordinate distributing free reusable bags to low- and medium-income households.
• continue to develop a comprehensive approach to addressing single use plastics.
Reusable bags
The City may want to purchase reusable bags for distribution to low and medium-income
households. Additional reusable bags are anticipated to be purchased using fee revenue once
the fee is in place.
Communications and engagement campaigns
This would fund initial campaigns until fee revenue begins, at which time it would be funded via
the fee revenue.
1.4
Packet Pg. 16 Attachment: Single Use Bag Policy Implementation Resourcing (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Attachment V: Summary of Survey Responses – “Share Your Thoughts on
Plastics Policy”
Overview:
• Available at: https://ourcity.fcgov.com/plastics
• 378 Responses
• Included responses from Dec. 17 – Dec. 29.
Statistics:
222 62 12 82LEVEL OF SUPPORT
Plastic Bag Ban and Paper Bag Fee at Large
Grocers in Fort Collins, Beginning in May
2022
Strongly Support Somewhat Support Somewhat Do Not Support Do Not Support
263 38 12 63LEVEL OF SUPPORT
A Ban on Plastic Bags
Strongly Support Somewhat Support Somewhat Do Not Support Do Not Support
ATTACHMENT 5 1.5
Packet Pg. 17 Attachment: Summary of Survey Responses (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
131
189
144
155
108
77
112
69
28
20
27
52
108
85
91
94
A FEE ON PAPER BAGS
PORTION OF PAPER BAG FEE BEING RETAINED
BY THE CITY
PORTION OF PAPER BAG FEE BEING RETAINED
BY GROCERS
AN EXEMPTION TO THE PAPER BAG FEE FOR
LOW-INCOME CUSTOMERS
Paper Bags: How Strongly Do You Support
the Following?
Strongly Support Somewhat Support Somewhat Do Not Support Do Not Support
226
173
200
242
206
54
78
72
60
68
11
29
21
14
21
85
94
80
58
78
IMPLMENTING POLICY IN MAY 2022
CIVIL PENALTIES FOR THOSE WHO DON'T
COMPLY
AUDIT IMPACTED BUSINESSES
ANNUAL REPORTING ON PERFORMANCE
MEASURES
ANNUAL REPORTING ON DISPROPORTIONATE
IMPACTS
Support For Other Policy Elements
Strongly Support Somewhat Support Somewhat Do Not Support Do Not Support
1.5
Packet Pg. 18 Attachment: Summary of Survey Responses (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Open Ended Question: What other thoughts do you have on the proposed
policy?
I think plastic bags should be banned everywhere and not just the large stores. If there is a need for reusable
bags for low-income people, stores and businesses can donate some bags. For example, the Market Days
program for seniors has sturdy reusable bags provided every shopping week with various logos on them.
How does this proposed policy affect the disabled community? Carrying groceries in paper bags is much
more difficult and will also require many more trips from the car to the home as an example.
Why is this currently a City priority in the midst of a pandemic, especially considering reusable bags are
currently not allowed to be used and grocery stores.
What problem is the City truly trying to solve, or is this just an effort to keep up with the likes of Boulder and
California?
What does gender, sexual orientation, education, race, income and other questions have to do with a policy
discussion about the what type of bags should be allowed at grocery and other retail stores?
City leadership should thoroughly vet the potential unintentional consequences that will result from a ban on
plastic grocery bags and be conscious of the "tone-deaf" message this type of ordinance sends during
COVID and ask themselves what problem are we trying to solve?
Since it is only large grocery stores affected, I think they should be able to implement it more quickly than
May of 2022.
If this ballot measure passes and prior to implementation, a baseline of existing sales should be established
and then annual reporting should include whether there is an increase/decrease in sales across the city by
grocery stores, department stores like Target and Walmart, etc. of small waste can liners (3 to 4 gallon size)
to supplant the needs of consumers that still require plastic bags for purposes that cannot be satisfied by
reusable shopping bags. Such uses include cat litter box clean-out, residential kitchen and bathroom wet
trash disposal, dog waste, etc.
National Public Radio ran a story on this very issue and their report identified research indicating that more
plastic is consumed in communities that ban plastic bags and that the carbon footprint and impact to the
environment caused in the production of reusable shopping bags is greater than when communities don't
force bans on plastic shopping bags. Don't take my word for it, listen to the story yourselves....
https://www.npr.org/2019/05/08/721542495/the-problem-with-banning-plastic-bags
If the City truly was data driven and a leader in this realm, it would not be plodding down the path to ban
plastic bags without first exploring this higher possible consumption of plastics and using such data in its
decision making. This feels much like a need to "check a box" so that the city can say it is in a special club
alongside the communities that have already done it...like keeping up with the Jones', rather than actually
making a data-driven decision about its climate future. Perception seems to be a higher priority than reality.
If someone cannot afford reusable bags, to take to the store, maybe a business in town or one of the Clubs,
like Rotary, might take this on as a project.
It takes some change in habits, but it is really quite easy to bring your own bags and stop using plastic.
Education is key.
If you ban plastic bags,You CAN NOT charge for paper bags. Government OVER REACH!!!!!
I think the time spent on determining impacts to low-income households could be better spent on programs
that have a positive impact on these groups. I would start with 1 type of plastic bag (standard grocery) and
then expand in the future.
You are going after the grocers for plastic bags and mentioned restaurants with plastic utensils and straws.
But I don't see mention of banning restaurant items or charging extra. If you go after the restaurants, you
should also include Styrofoam food/drink containers. Cardboard is much more environmentally friendly.
A ban is the only solution. The problem starts at the cash register. But maybe support for free reusable
bags for low income customers is wiser than an exemption on plastics. Don't brand those bags as clearly
"poor people bags." Build a subsidized campaign in which merchants can brand their new reusable bags at
1.5
Packet Pg. 19 Attachment: Summary of Survey Responses (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
a lower cost. Get guys like me to buy them in packs of 5. Reward the eagerly cooperating merchants for
reducing their plastic bag use with a financial incentive. Make it positive for them.
each/every grocery store needs to do their parts ASAP. 90+ % of Whole food shoppers bring their own bags,
Sprout 85%, KingSoopers 70%, Safeway 60% and worst is Walmart 0%.
While I strongly oppose the use of single-use plastic shopping bags, bringing this proposition forward in the
middle of a pandemic when stores will not allow the use of reusable bags is extremely poor timing. Also, it is
folly to propose banning single-use plastic bags and propose a fee for paper bags at the same time.
Due to the pandemic, there has been a significant increase in customers using grocery store curbside
pickups and only plastic bags are used by most grocers. The City should consider if the ban will change the
type of bags grocery stores will continue to use for curbside pickup and how that will add to the cost of the
customer's bill. Grocers will need to train their employees to consolidate groceries in fewer bags as they
have a habit of putting 1-2 items in a bag.
I realize that right now the market for recycled products is not there, making it hard to encourage recycling.
And the rules for what can and cannot be recycled makes it difficult for citizens to follow those rules. Plastics
manufacturers have increased the reusable/recyclable potential for their products. I would encourage an
educational approach: how can we creatively reuse plastics? I am strongly opposed to yet another
government intervention that I am sure is believed to be for our own good. Our taxes continue to go up, the
cost of goods sold increases. Do we really want to add one more fine to our lives? Will this actually make
Fort Collins the city of choice to live in?
This is absolutely ridiculous social engineering. It is not aligned with values of a free society.
Free choice and market will eliminate plastics IF it benefits us, not a small group imposing their socialistic
values on the rest of us. We don't want dictates from bureaucrats, nor misery like in California. Stop the
nonsense.
I've lived in places with a plastic bag ban. You get used to it. It's probably a good policy in the long run.
However, Fort Collins is a nice place to live because people aren't as "strident" and "condemning". People
here are "nice" liberals, not mean ones (as they tend to be in Oregon, where I lived for a while.) It's always a
good idea to be kind and gentle about ideas like this, and not self-righteous and condemning.
Please implement this ban. It it well past the time when this should have been done.
I love this idea, and I think it should be expanded past plastic bags and grocers. It should also be extended
to restaurants and places that regularly provide consumers with single use plastics without giving them
another option. I would love to see plastic utensils and to go containers disappear, as those are just as
harmful it the environment.
I fully support banning plastic bags. Paper bags, however, are less harmful to the environment. If a fee for
paper bags is enacted, I would like to see low-cost ways for households to obtain reusable bags. Perhaps
the city can even give grocers/other retail a subsidy to provide reusable bags at the beginning of the
program to its customers.
In other countries, I have lived in, the business also provides plastic bags but customers have to pay for
them. I would also suggest the business provide reusable bags for sale. People will complain at first but will
get used to the change rather quickly.
I think the most important component of any new policy is education particularly trying to get shoppers to
rethink how any product is transported from a store to their home in a matter of a short time- you do not need
so many plastic bags to do this. We need a cultural shift so it becomes automatic like putting on seat belts
that we always use reusable bags. It's not that hard, but we need to make this happen. Thanks for
presenting this most important issue.
This is my second survey. I changed my mind because I don't think targeting grocers is fair or fosters
competition. What about the big box stores who are also selling groceries? It appears that they are already
taking business from the major grocers. This just helps them and reduces our options as consumers. Also,
a big concern is if stores just use multi-use plastic (thicker bags) to get around the ordinance. Then that add
more plastic pollution. I strongly support good legislation to reduce plastic. It needs to be smart and fair.
An overall ban should not be enacted.
Rather education and education so that the consumer is drawn to reusable bags.
I currently will try to use reusable bags but sometimes forget to grab them. I do not want to be penalized for
the occasional slip up.
Implement incentives to encourage people to use reusable bags, instead of forcing penalties on people.
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Packet Pg. 20 Attachment: Summary of Survey Responses (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
If the store keeps part of the fee they should be required to give one free reuseable bag for every 50 dollars
to 100 dollars of an order. Why stop at single use bags? What about plastic cups, straws, and single use
self-serve and hot food containers?
I'm strongly in favor of this ordinance. Aside from the effect this may have on other local municipalities that
may consider a similar policy, it will have a direct impact on local trash collection be extending the life of our
landfill.
The only reason that I don't support implementing a plastic bag ban in May 2022 is that that date is too far
away. I'm already astonished that we're only having this conversation in Fort Collins now, in 2020. (Every
other place in which I've lived in the past few years has already made this move.) I think that this policy
needs to be implemented the day before as soon as possible.
I am strongly against all of the above options. We live in a free society, if someone doesn't want bags then
they are free not to use them and charging for them doesn't reduce their use its just another tax disguised as
something else. Thank you
Reusable bags spread germs. Banning one-time use bags when, thanks to COVID, we aren't even allowed
to use our own bags seems very short-sighted.
Bad time with COVID-19, equity impacts ignored, small thinking (it really ignores the single bag usage), “me
too” is not leading, would favor circular economic approach
During this time of unprecedented pandemic and the impact it has had in businesses and citizens this has to
be a very poor decision by 5 of the city council members.
In fact, they are so out of touch with the real world it is extremely disappointing. Also , have they even
considered citizens bringing in their own bags that might be contaminated with potential COVID exposure.
Also, how would that work with citizens picking up groceries that are delivered to their car.
This is the wrong time to even consider this and citizens have told them before that this fee was not wanted
or needed.
Government has already done everything to hurt business and people. Just another blow to individuals. If
you don’t believe in plastic. Don’t use it!!
I have reusable bags. Several. I don't use them due to convenience. I am also cheap, so if I had to pay to
use a paper bag, my reusable bags would become far more convenient and my behavior would change. I
doubt I am alone in this thinking. But why wait until 2022?
Many of us recycle or reuse plastic bags for summer food markets, pet waste, and various other
projects....you need to research this more.
I will shop outside Fort Collins if this occurs.
Thank you for doing this.
I feel we need to advocate at the State level to change the ‘ban on bans’ of single use plastics as well.
I don’t think municipalities can enact bans on plastics at the moment. I believe the only thing possible is to
enact such a large tax (with provisions for low income to get reusable bags) that no one will want to pay it
and will find more sustainable ways to transport their items.
A really large fee like 1.00-2.00. The point is not to collect the fee but to stop the use of disposable bags.
Also needed at the State level-ban on use of polystyrene take out containers. reps singer and Hooton have
expressed interest.
utilize the fees to offer reusable bags free of charge to low-income households
I think this is a great step in the right direction towards reducing the use of single-use plastics in our
community. The reduction of single-use plastics is a great way to reduce our community's environmental
footprint. Plastic bag bans or fees have been introduced elsewhere (including other Colorado communities,
Breckenridge for example) with success, so I do believe its as good a time as any to start taking active
measures to reduce our community's environmental impact.
Thank you for proposing the ban on plastic bags, and a few on paper bags. People will adapt quickly to
bringing their own bags; many do this already. Eliminating plastic bags has already been done in many
countries, and several cities in the USA. If not for industry lobbyists, this would have been done years ago.
Just do it. Along with Styrofoam. Painful at fiest and quickly forgotten .
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Packet Pg. 21 Attachment: Summary of Survey Responses (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
The policy as proposed will cause a direct increase in purchase of additional plastic bags for a variety of
purposes currently addressed by re-purposing both plastic and paper bags. Plastic bags not re-purposed are
often re-cycled through the city required sites at grocery stores. Additional education could increase this
dramatically.
Lumping fines for paper bag into a Plastics Policy makes zero sense as they represent none of the problems
dictated in the above policy. Any reference to paper bags should be removed.
I support implementing this sooner than May 2022. I also support expanding beyond 'large grocers' to
include most, if not all, businesses.
How about just educating consumers instead of treating them like children.
Plastic doesn't pollute, people do. Stop it with these stupid policies.
People and businesses are already struggling and you want to throw this policy at then as well.
Stop with these policies that don't have a real positive impact.
I love the idea of a plastic bag ban but am uncertain about also imposing a fee on paper bags. I think
including this will make more members not want to vote for this and we need to think of the greater good, as
well as affordability and accessibility. How would you even go about low income folks being exempt? Seems
unnecessary to add that fee.
People want to see plastic bags go. I do, and know many others who do too. I think the best solution is to
mandate grocers to stop using them, and just use paper bags instead. Many grocers already offer discounts
when you bring your own bags - that would be something I'd love to see the city cover through tax revenues,
rather than charging fines and paper bag fees. Cover discount incentives for those who bring their own bags.
Positive reinforcement :)
This policy seems excellent to me. I strongly support a plastic bag ban!
This is great that the city is trying to take action as the convenience does not out weigh the cost of non
reusable bags. I also am glad that the city is trying to take into account low income member in our
community who need to be taken into account so they are not disenfranchised by this ban.
There will be painful transition period but once individuals are properly trained to bring their own bags we will
all be the better for it. Plastic, “disposable” bags are just lazy and irresponsible.
Do not charge a fee for paper bags. They are recyclable. Just ban the plastic. I would vote no if you charge
a fee for paper. Why should paper users have to pay for plastic violators? That's ridiculous. The grocers do
not need paper bag fee. KS switched to plastic only in NOCO. There was no single, no info provided.
Grocers have been selling and giving away reusable bags for years now. Why would you pay them to do
what they already do??
Do you not have better things that you could be spending your time on? We have been here before with the
plastic bag issue!!!! ENOUGH ALREADY!!! Stop wasting our money on this. We like our plastic bags and
plastic straws!!! Someone there has a plastic umm...well, issue!!!
If the city is concerned about single use plastics, the right move is not to ban them, but to provide an
alternative to stores and shoppers free of charge. This idea, from start to finish is awful.
Please double these comments, as my husband and I discussed the survey and agree. He add that there is
a floating heap of plastic in the ocean the size of the state of Texas. We can't continue our present practices,
and yes, change is painful, but it is necessary.
How about just educating rather than dictating.
This question was already answered when voters repealed the previous bag tax. Please stop. Next time we
will be recalling council members who do not respect the will of the people as well.
I have been very concerned about this issue for a long time. The sooner this can be put into effect the better.
I am low income and I have my own bags which I use the majority of the time. I do forget sometimes, though.
I am all for including any and all single use plastics! I can't state my support strongly enough!
Wish to thank the City Council for its progressive stand on this and other issues while continuing to evaluate
how their actions impact low income people.
This is just another nanny law, expanding government. This is going in the wrong direction.
I feel that this is a long overdue policy. I continue to be surprised how many people leave a grocery store
with plastic bags, when it is so easy to use a reusable bag, which we have been doing for 30 years.
I believe low-income customers should be given reusable bags. It is their responsibility to bring those said
bags when going shopping. If they do not, then they should be fined as everyone else. It is not that difficult to
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Packet Pg. 22 Attachment: Summary of Survey Responses (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
bring and use reusable bags. Personal responsibility for the environment is everyone's job. It is truly
unfortunate that we need an ordinance to make people accountable for protecting the environment.
This idea has already been voted down by the people. Are we to assume you know what's better for the
people than the people themselves?
I agree that I would not want a policy like this to affect low-income people, but reusable bags are so
inexpensive that it seems to me, rather than exempting them from the bag fee, a better option would be to
give each family on public assistance a certain number of reusable bags. That way, they would be able to be
in compliance with the policy, and there would not have to be a special exemption for them. In a way, I think
giving them a certain number of reusable bags would allow them to feel less singled out, and more a part of
the community of caring people who are trying to reduce single use items of every kind (plastic bags AND
paper bags.)
I commend city council for taking concrete steps towards environment protection!
Plastic bags should have been banned a long time ago.. they breakdown and get into our soil, air and
water..and many of those particles make it to our oceans as well all the way from Colorado. I hope it’s on
the ballot and it passes.
If we open our restaurants there will be less use of single use plastics because of less take out orders. Often
grocery store clerks do not optimize the use of each bag, maybe start with educating clerks to use less bags
and be more efficient. Instead of banning bags and charging us if we forget to bring our own bags why don't
we focus on positive enforcement? So if you bring your own bag you get a bag discount? People react better
to positive enforcement instead of negative.
Aren't the cost of the bags already included in each grocery store purchase? Adding an additional charge on
the consumer for using a bag does not solve the problem. Why not focus efforts into solving the problem
instead of punishing the consumer? Fort Collins should look into alternative bag materials. One could argue
canvas bags use more resources to produce; energy, water, harmful dyes, emissions to ship the heavier
product... Be different than Boulder and California. Let's find a better solution instead of taking the easy
route.
Really dumb idea. People do not need to be told what bags they can and cannot use. Reusable bags not
sanitary
I do not support the ban or fees. In many communities the number of purchased single use bags goes up
after a ban or limit. We should work to further recycle the bags if we are trying to keep them out of the
landfill. I will not support any regulation of them.
How about a ban on selling anything that is in those clamshell plastic boxes that aren't recycleable.
ban the plastics, they are the problem. I disagree with a fee on paper. Just encourage people to use their
own bags. Monitoring and reviewing and penalizing retailers is going to cause division, resentment, and cost
a lot of taxpayer money. Work towards voluntary cooperation without unnecessary spending.
Please do this. Offer discounted packable light weight reusable bags from recycled plastics
It is imperative that a community as fine as FC and Larimer Co adopt and adhere to stringent environmental
restoration and protection policies.
It's time for FC to embrace this proposal
Just do it! Climate change is decimating our air, land & water.
Banning single-use plastics is a WONDERFUL idea! Anyone can bring a bag with them, rich or poor. It's just
a matter of getting used to it. I've been doing it for many years, and it's no problem at all!
I'd also like to see those wasteful and polluting single-use water bottles, plastic clamshells (the kind salads
come in), plastic take-out containers, etc. banned. I'm old enough to remember when takeout came in paper
containers. Let it be so again!
Thank you for pressing this important issue!
I believe that banning plastic and paper bags in grocery stores is essential! It Should be done before 2022!!
stop the use of plastic and paper bags now! The climate requires it!
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Packet Pg. 23 Attachment: Summary of Survey Responses (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
I dislike trash like everyone, but I also try to look at things from a practical perspective. Foremost, the single
use plastic bag is dying a natural death in the first place. Many stores, prominently King Soopers, our local
Kroger affiliate has already announced it is phasing out these bags. Others will follow. Other studies have
shown paper bags are arguably nearly equally harmful overall to the environment. From the Coloradoan
article: "The city isn't considering the bag fee as a revenue-driver. Money from bag fees is typically used to
cover administrative costs of the program, including compliance monitoring and providing people with
reusable bags." While I am sure a few reusable bags are given out from programs like this, I am quite
certain it is an infinitesimally small number or percent of bags used overall. This falls in line with the concept
that government officials have never met a spending program they did not like. Creating a program to create
a fee or tax to cover the cost of the program for a problem that is vanishing already makes no sense. The
Most annoying of the reasoning for the program is math itself. Also from the article, plastic trash is 10% of
trash overall Within that, 17% of the plastic trash is single use bags. So overall, these bags makeup 1.7%
of the trash. The numbers as presented, I am skeptical of, but for this discussion I will use. By 2022 when
this may come into effect, the single use bags will be nearly extinct, so even less by then. I am sure there
are other pollution problems that can be addressed at much lower cost for much more impact and much less
divisive after everything we have all gone through for the last year. I hate trash like everyone else. But I also
hate wasting money. There are good and even great government programs. This would not be one of them.
My only support responses were to be considered if this oppressive ban takes place. This plastic and paper
waste makes up a ridiculously small portion of our waste stream and contributes such a tiny amount to GHG.
No thanks
That this is just another way for the city council to look like they care when this is just a money grab.
Finally! Start here and do more, like all retail.
This has been needed for a long time. I am hopeful that the City of Fort Collins can finally get this approved
and push forward where other progressive cities have been for years if not decades. Moving away from
plastic bags is an inconvenience, but it is not hard. Collectively we can do this and do our part to reduce the
great plastic invasion of our cities, neighborhoods, and even our bodies. Thanks to our city council for
leading the charge for our community with this important work.
We are somewhat in support of doing something to limit or reduce the proliferation of disposable plastic
bags, but do not support the reusable cloth bags. If paper bags can be properly recycled, that would be our
preference.
Really? Don't like using plastic bags? Don't, bring your own!!
https://www.npr.org/transcripts/721542495 Here is a nine minute NPR story on how a plastic ban is actually
worse for the environment than the alternatives.
Instead of a punitive consequence for businesses not in compliance as the change occurs, is there a way to
flip it to a reward for compliance? What about providing COFC reusable bags to low income families to use?
Major cities have implement similar policies and it works It's 2020 and it is strange that we can't move past
single use plastics, especially plastic bags. I previously lived in a city that implemented a bag tax and plastic
ban and it was tough to remember to bring your own bag for like 2 weeks, and then you just get used to it.
Fully support this and ways that the city can help low-income households or less profitable businesses make
the adjustments more smoothly.
I do not support this policy. This policy does not address increased costs for EVERYONE in Fort Collins. I
am unaware of a study that says plastics is a serious issue in Fort Collins. The logic of 'everyone else is
doing it' is not a basis for passing new laws. Lastly, the policies described in this survey clearly indicate a
new bureaucracies being created (e.g. auditing business and studying low income impacts) adding bloat to
the city government and diluting resources from other much needed priorities such as economic recovery
from COVID-19.
yes and please do not listen to any excuses as to why any person who can get to a store to buy something,
can't bring their own bag if they need one. period. thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
What public outreach and education is planned?
What is recommended in place of the bags previously offered by stores?
hard to do with Covid in play so 2022 is ok
A plastic bag fee would be better than a ban for a variety of reasons, including that studies show it works
better, especially if implemented BEFORE a ban. A more comprehensive program with fees for other items
would be best, and then it would make sense to look at impacts on low-income households. Reusables could
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Packet Pg. 24 Attachment: Summary of Survey Responses (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
be subsidized by the fees to offset those impacts. FoCo is part of the global issue of a plastic pandemic. We
can do more than a bag ban!
Based on the above questions, this policy is all but approved.
I think it would be ideal if low-income households were provided with reusable bags at no cost as well - to
mitigate cost impacts.
Right now, with covid, customers are discouraged from using their own bags. If a similar situation occurs,
when using bags from stores are required, the fees should not apply.
I'm concerned that enforcement is going to be very difficult, and overtime the policy will diminish... In other
Cities I have lived with fees for plastic bags or bag credits if someone provided a reusable bag - the cashier
was not well trained and did not follow the local requirements. for example $.05 fee or credit doesn't really
matter as a part of the larger grocery bill and so often it was not applied to the order. I would like more
details on how enforcement will ensure compliance and add elements of transparency for shaming those
who do not follow suit. before i vote, I'd like more details on implementation and follow through. also, why
not include restaurants? if I could count how many times i asked for no silverware/cutlery and still received it
with my delivery, I'd run out of fingers and toes real fast. if restaurants are hurting for money as the result of
COVID disruptions, why not focus on their own food waste and wasteful use of disposable cutlery, rather
than tax breaks to do more of the same? if this is a BIG Move as a part of Our Climate Future, I'm not
understanding how this is so "BIG" and transformational....?
Support and resources to provide low-income people with reusable bags and other solutions.
reusable bags are for all regardless of income - and not all reusable bags are free of plastic - so push cotton
or cotton blend bags that can be washed and reused many many times - some of my cloth bags are over 15
years old - canvas lasts!!!
As much as I hate plastic and use reusable bags as much as I can, I think it would make more sense to have
a fee for both plastic and paper. I don't understand why that wasn't an option in this survey. Nor was there a
reusable-only option. The survey basically seems to be assessing how I'm going to vote in April and not
what do I really want to see as a local resident regarding this issue. :-P
Things cost too much the way it is. Way put a burden on us even more. You people are trying to follow in
Boulder's footsteps. We don't make their kind of money. You will just drive good people out on Colorado.
Have non-plastic bags at every register for purchase. Do not use the larger, heavier plastic bags as found in
California. That just exacerbates the issue.
Make it super easy for low income not to have to pay the fee without being embarrassed. Making it super
easy may mean that some (I don't believe many in comparison to the total number of people) that wouldn't
qualify take advantage of this but that's acceptable, in my opinion, in order to easily accommodate low
income. We should be sensitive to low income levels.
I'd like to see expansion of what is recycled. One possibility may be that, instead of duplicating in Fort Collins
something as extensive as CHARM in Boulder, that the City of Fort Collins can work out an arrangement
with them where the items are collected here and trucked to them on a weekly basis or some other type of
cooperative effort with nearby communities. I'm far from knowing the numerous details involved in recycling
but I'd like to see us get to a William McDonough "Cradle to Cradle" approach of every waste item either
being a natural waste that is recycled or a technical waste that is recycled. And much of it starts with the
inputs so we try to eliminate as much of both that we can before it's even generated.
Fort Collins should be a leader in reducing and eventually eliminating pollution from all types of plastics—
bags, food containers, single-use items such as straws and stirrers, and micro plastics. These materials are
overwhelming our planet, and micro plastics are being ingested by people and animals. We do not know the
extent of the damage that these tiny plastic particles are inflicting on living things, but we cannot wait to find
out. We need to take strong, decisive action now.
Bring your own bags or pack it out not sacked. Why do we charge for plastic bags. Just do not have them.
What is the difference in cost between paper & plastic to the stores?
It needs to be all merchants not just grocery stores. Kohls, Jax, Walmart all pass out plastic.
It's hard to people, even though they want to, to get into the habit of taking their alternative bags into the
grocery store every time they shop. This ordinance will nudge them to do this. With this incentive, people will
develop this habit and will feel better about themselves and feel they're helping out, doing their bit as
responsible citizens. This positive aspect of the ordinance should be promoted when it's implemented.
Thanks, and good luck.
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Packet Pg. 25 Attachment: Summary of Survey Responses (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Banning the plastic bags is a good idea. I had been using my reusable bags until Covid. Another issue is
recycling all the other plastic items with chasing arrows. This should be addressed. Our curbside pickup
says certain plestic items cannot be recycled. It is confusing as to which can be recycled. It pains me to
know these items are ending up in the landfill.
Our lives and planet will be better off without plastic bags. We got along just fine without them 40 years ago.
I wonder how you will be able to deal with low income persons? Would it not be best to GIVE them reusable
grocery bags? Those last for ages. That would make it easier for the grocers, as they don't have to single
out anyone for different treatment. And, if those people don't use the reusables they will have to pay for the
paper bags. That way everyone has to take the responsibility for their actions.
Wish it wasn’t until 2022. Other localities have already implemented
I don't understand how you would implement the exemption for low-income households. It seems onerous
and could lead to weirdness at the grocery store. Better would be a system to give free re-usable bags to
low-income households, e.g., annually. Also, "a portion" is obviously vague. 1%? 55%? So vague to make it
impossible to gauge/answer the question. (That said, I really appreciate that the city is thinking about this -
and I appreciate all of the work the city has done this year.)
This absolutely needs to be done. I am concerned about the implementation for low-income households and
am curious to hear more about it.
You ban plastic bags and then we have to buy plastic bags from the stores to use for garbage and animal
waste. You are not solving any problem at all..instead you are creating a larger problem by cutting more
trees down for the paper bags. Reusable bags do not wash and last. Common sense is lacking.
This is California negative. They ruined their state and are moving here. Positive: make feed bag carriers
for groceries and retail shopping the proud and desired way to shop. Not only do you need to exempt poor
but also seniors who do not carry heavy loads. Get cooperation from trash companies. Campaign not only
irresponsible plastic use but fabric waste from t-shirts and rugs to showers wasting water because they have
only one flow rate. Let's talk. Edith Brown 970-232-9209.
Do not do this. This is kind of ridiculous, considering that just as most people were starting to bring their own
bags, we were told not to due to the pandemic, which seemingly set us back several years as far as
voluntary compliance/bringing your own bag. Now that we are "allowed" to bring our own bag again, I see
very few people doing it. Rather than draconian laws and expensive auditing and enforcement, why don't
you run a campaign reminding people of the benefits and that they CAN bring their own bags, which was
banned (for seemingly no reason as it's since been allowed again).
I would suggest measures to limit waste from other disposable plastics such as take-out food and fast-food
restaurants, in addition to these proposed measures. A large fraction of trash along roadsides consists of
fast-food containers.
I would like to see more policies that encourage resuse in the economy
I also support measures to reduce restaurant/take-out use of single use plastics like bags, plastic containers,
drink containers/lids/straws and plastic silverware. I would love to see the city take action on these sources
of plastic waste as well.
I think it’s a great step. Though I’m sure there will be some resistance it’s a step we do need to take to
protect our environment.
The plastic bins at the recycle center are always full. Suggest they be emptied daily
Find ways to recycle the plastic bsgs
I would like to see the city move faster and go beyond just large grocers more quickly as well. Thank you!
we have to do it eventually, so let's do it now!
Be sure you are able to target our entire community. Those of us answering this questionnaire obviously
have access to this information, but many won't. Please include those most impacted by these proposals,
part of making the solution/policy/enforcement. Thank you
It’s about time! Do it, sooner the better!
Reporting in impacts and litigating penalties may make this more expensive. I think May of 22 is too far
away. Can we phase in? Can we include making plastic utensils and straws on request only? I see no
signage about that despite all the carryout these days. We could do that TODAY!
Citizens are self regulating! No government intervention is needed
Ban plastic bags, yes. Ban paper bags, no. Do not combine this two issues. They are separate types of
materials. They should be presented to the public as separate issues.
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Packet Pg. 26 Attachment: Summary of Survey Responses (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
I reuse the plastic bags and recycle my unused newspaper and grocery bags.
Support banning plastic bags, not very clear why the focus on paper bags. Disagree with the differentiation
of low income population. The regulations should cover everyone. Should not be a reason to hire more city
staff.
Bring it on! It's overdue.
Some fees could be used to help provide lower income people with reusable bags. The city could also hold
an event where businesses get together to meet new potential customers and network and whatever. But
the catch is having those businesses give away reusable bags. For example, I have several from Comcast.
I'd much rather see a ban on single use plastic and styrofoam food containers for take out along with straws
and plastic cutlery. I think this would have better impact as clamshell and stryrofoam containers cannot be
recycled. While I welcome a cutdown on plastic bags I am concerned about low-income communities.
Plastic carry out bags provided by retailers would seem to comprise a tiny fraction of plastic packaging sold
by retailers. Many of the items that go into those plastic bags are themselves wrapped in plastic. This is
unnecessary. Dry goods can be packaged in biodegradable paper or cellulose. Wet goods can be packaged
in glass or metal. These old-fashioned materials are phased out largely because of consumer aesthetic
preferences, but why should we prioritize that sort of consumer aesthetic preference over environmental
considerations?
As former chair of the NRAB I testified before council on 1st & 2nd reading for the plastic bag fee several
years ago. Unfortunately, a small band of activists put pressure on the 2nd reading and the policy was
abandoned. I think people are more aware of the damage plastic does in the environment and the majority
are ready to push back on the small segment that sees this (mistakenly) as a civil liberties issue. I say go for
it.
I think this is a great step towards less plastic pollution
Elimination of plastic and paper bags is both simple and vital. Many of us grew up before plastic bags and
know that simply bringing clot bags or other containers is NO PROBLEM once you get used to us. We did it
for decades before plastic!
We also need a ban on other plastic products, such as plastic clamshells used to package bakery items and
produce. We have been led to believe that these items are recyclable when in fact they often are not. This
green-washing is very deceptive and creates consumer confusion.
1) Studies have shown that a plastic bag fee is much more effective than a bag ban, primarily for
psychological reasons. For example: https://econlife.com/2020/02/plastic-bag-bans-and-fees/
2) Paper bags are NOT necessarily a more environmentally friendly alternative to plastic bags and need not
be encouraged as such. This is a complex LCA topic, but here is a good article delving into this-
https://www.bbc.com/news/business-47027792.
3) The key is public education on bag reuse, to reduce environmental impact. Paper bags take much more
energy to make and transport, the key is to reuse a certain number of times to reduce the life cycle impact.
This is even more true of the canvas or other plastic reusable bags - these need to be reused over a
hundred times to breakeven according to some estimates, but people tend to buy far too many of these but
keep forgetting them at home and buying more new reusable bags, which is counterproductive as it leads to
more plastic pollution eventually.
Why wait until 2022 Make it May 2021
The community did not support this when it was proposed last time. When reusable bags were banned
under the guise of public safety during the pandemic, it became obvious that this was never about the health
of our community or environment. In addition, more of the community is utilizing grocery delivery and pickup,
which is not addressed by this policy. This “problem” should be solved with education, not bans and fines.
The ban should begin as voluntary on part of providers and consumers. Many shoppers already brought
their own bags to grocery stores before the pandemic. The pandemic required grocery stores to reject
customer provided bags to reduce suspicion of virus transmission. Many customers will return to bringing
their own bags once the covid virus is under control. It's too soon to impose a plastic ban until observation of
plastic reduction can be measured after the pandemic abates. Even May of 2022 may be too early.
Businesses should not be monitored for compliance; businesses have enough to track without adding the
cost of monitoring compliance.
I think grocers should supply paper bags and encourage re-use of them.
No. Just no. This was not popular a few years ago and that was just a fee on plastic bags. Now your
purposing a ban and a fee in paper. No.
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Packet Pg. 27 Attachment: Summary of Survey Responses (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Keep it cost neutral, as far as possible
Keep it simple (KISS principle)
Way too aggressive at this time. I would support a fee for plastic bags but no charge for Paper. Why is it the
business fault? why not put the liability on the consumer. it needs to be their responsibility to supply their
own bags.
When the old landfill was viewed as closing city began to look at ways to encourage composting and waste
reduction. Once the new landfill site was acquired the composting and waste reduction initiatives
disappeared. As the pandemic rage(s) plastic use is at an all time high with more items being eliminated
from the list of recyclables. Can staff take a look at a long term approach that will not give our merchants any
more issues to deal with. The amount of un recycled material being shipped to homes via “on line shopping “
is enormous compared to grocery bags. Really? What’s this going to cost to get on a ballot? Please deal
with more important social interests and really focus on your “triple bottom line”. This initiative apply to none
of these and you use an ailing river as the reasoning? Really? Also your demographic question portion of
this only continues to enforce our separation as a society, please be the leaders that work toward bigger
goals!
This is a no brainer and if it occurs, customers will be forced to go along with the change.
Could we encourage more stores to offer used cardboard boxes instead of bags? A la Natural Grocer,
Mountain Market (co-op), Esh's.
Seems that exempting certain customers is reasonable but hard to implement well. Not sure how to address
this.
I certainly think that paper bags are better than plastic - so glad you are working on this issue - i get so
troubled to see people still requesting their groceries be bagged in plastic. Wondering how stores Or the City
can make reusable bags available at a reasonable cost to get people on board. I appreciate Natural Grocers
system - offering cardboard boxes to those who don't bring their own bags.
Incentivize people to do the thing that's best for our Environment, rather than penalizing individuals for
making their own choices. Give me a $.01 credit every time I shop and use my own bag. Don't charge me
anything for not complying with your rule.
I feel that eliminating single use plastics is an essential part of our future as a city, so am glad to see the
work on this topic. Because it is a complex issue, I hope that additional thought will be put towards other
sources of single-use plastics. E.g. take-out food, local food packaging, etc. I don’t want to see restaurants
any harder hit as they recover form the pandemic, but considering some support and resources for them to
source other types of carry-out containers would be so helpful. Finally, that paper bag “fee” does seem like
a bit of a turn off to the proposal in general, but I understand that the large grocers might “need” that in order
to have a better compliance rate?
Thanks for your consideration of this issue and I look forward to seeing additional solutions and ideas from
the city.
In all the questions I only see the words "fee" and "penalty". I think you are looking at this wrong. How
about an "incentive" or "enticement" for grocers and consumers to wean themselves away from plastic
bags?
I think everyone realizes that we cant just keep producing and throwing away plastic bags my the millions.
But proposing a solution that only has punitive measures is destined to fail. How about a program that
"makes it cool" not to use plastic bags? How about creating an easy "on ramp" and alternative for people of
all income levels? Taking the approach of "Thou shalt not use plastic bags..." is just begging for non-
compliance.
Most other communities have already done this. We need to get on board!
I think these proposals are AMAZING and I really hope the City of Fort Collins helps set the example of how
to make our environment a priority!
Any chance it can happen before May 2022?
Re-usable sturdy shopping bags are a simple solution. The fee on plastic bags can be used to subsidize the
cost of re-usable shopping bags, so they are available in all major shops for a low cost, something like 50
cents.
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Packet Pg. 28 Attachment: Summary of Survey Responses (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Thank you so much for considering this. And you addressed my only concern about it...the impact it might
have on low-income households.
I do not like but will live with it and abide by it if implemented
Instead of the ban, are there potential incentives that can be offered to people who do NOT use plastic (ie:
bring their own bags)? Essentially using a carrot instead of a stick... I just worry that there might be more
push-back to a ban as opposed to an incentive program, but an incentive may not get us to where we want
to be in terms of plastic waste diverted.
I think it’s a great idea to get people to get used to using less and using their own bags. We need to keep
moving in this direction.I don’t think it should be based on income, since the cost can be avoided by bringing
your own and using less. Plastic bottles should be next.
A component of the program should be incentivizing or providing reusable bags. Also plastic garbage bags
and baggies should be banned as well.
It's way past time that a plastic ban is put into effect. If it can't be recycled or made of recycled material it
should be banned.
just ban plastic bags. leave the paper bags alone or charge us $0.10 for them. all people can bring a bag or
carry what they buy. we will learn to shop differently.
I think we have been SO Spoiled and thoughtless in our use of plastic. Possibly, a Strong Impact
'consequence' will get our attention...especially if there is a strong eduation component vs. a dictatorial
approach...(even though my responses were strong, it wasn't to 'dictate' but more to get people's attention
while you/we 'educate' at the same time.
I don't think you can make a correlation on a bag fee & low income persons. I'd rather have the city offer
free bags to those who need them. I'm disappointed about all the plastic being used during covid- hope we
can go back to using our own bags soon.
Ban the plastic bags please! Not all plastic can be or is recycled and its lightweight nature means that on
windy days it can be carried out of trash and recycling bins and into the environment, including our rivers.
Single-use plastics, such as plastic bags, are widely used and easily break down into pieces too small to
remove from the environment. This should stop.
We have already been using our own reusable bags for groceries until Covid came along and will resume it
as soon as possible.
Make reusable bags cheap or free for some people or for some time prior to the implementation of the
plastic bag ban.
Can't happen soon enough!
No waste of time seeing how people of low income are being impacted; if there is consistent complaints then
we should spend the additional resources on studying the impacts but why create a problem before it exists?
They or anyone can bring a plastic trash bag grocery bag or home made fabric bag that they already have
from home or pre plastic bag ban bags and/or there can be a free bag bin where precious customers bring
back their paper bags or old plastic bags OR CUSTOMERS ARE PROVIDED WITH PACKAGING BOXES
THAT GROCERY STORES WOULD DISCARD OTHERWISE (See Esh’s market in Loveland for example)
The fee part is stopping me from supporting this. I normally use my own reusable bags but covid-19 stopped
that so now I am forced to receive plastic bags which I recycle. This fee will be passed along to consumers
and any increase the business has to incur to purchase paper bags People in this town are already
struggling. I agree plastic bags are bad for the environment. But so are plastic containers 1&5 yet I'm still
forced to throw those away because they aren't being accepted anymore for recycling.
This should have been in place years ago.
Invest in expertise around community based social marketing or other science-driven behavior change
models as you plan toward 2022. It will take more than education and regulations to make this successful. I
am a a social scientist in the conservation field for the US Fish and Wildlife Service and would be happy to
discuss further or be on a committee or team to help with this initiative in any way I can. 970-222-3881
Natalie Sexton
Encourage people to buy reusable bags.
Could start sooner. Ask people to make bags to distribute to low income popupus
Important step!
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Packet Pg. 29 Attachment: Summary of Survey Responses (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Educate people on the issues vice legislate the issue. When you start to do some reading on the issue it
sounds more like a waste/recycling management issue. I personally have reusable bags that I will bring to
the stores, but at the same time I keep some plastic bags around and reuse them for trash can liners,
shipping items for protection, keeping my car clean when I go play in the mountains and get dirty. Are we
going to be selective about banning plastic bags? There are ziplock bags, trash bags, bread bags, meat
separation bags, fruit and vegetable bags. What about other single use plastics? Fruit trays, plastic wraps,
plasticware, food trays, etc.? The COVID pandemic has shown some the importance to single use plastics.
It seems like more and more as I go into places, the business that are sustainable oriented and already
taking action themselves and those will be the places in the future that succeed as we educate the
community and businesses. Don't implement policy that is hard and costly to enforce and will cost the poor
even more money out of their pockets.
I'm tired of you guys trying to shove this down our throats every year. This has nothing to do with the
environment, this is just a way to raise fees and line your pockets.
I volunteer to pick up trash and the 2 worst things are plastic bags and plastic bottles,
Bags r bad
I have exchanged correspondence with some members of City Council on this already. Please cf. those
emails.
Fair for all use paper only with no fees we pay enough for the products
Please also come up with plan for getting rid of these bags at smaller stores as well.
We need a ban!
Plastic bags are a good starting point, but this should move to other containers that don't need to be plastic:
drink bottles and food jars, styrofoam packing material, plastic retail packaging, etc.
Better messaging to make clear that plastic isn't truly recyclable and that users of plastic bags and
packaging are being subsidized by the rest of the society will help.
I came from CA, where they passed the ban on plastic bags at retailers and put a fee on single use plastic
bags beginning in 2014. Over several years people's behaviors changed to where instead of paying a fee
for bags, people bought reusable bags of many types for use in grocery stores and retail. Reusable bags
were often used as giveaways to promote a store brand. There is also the trend for restaurants not to
provide foam or plastic take out containers but use compostable containers instead. It takes some years to
wean people off single use bags, but with CO growing, it will make a big impact here in time.
Very good thoughts of the city council, and hope it works. In Galapagos Islands in Ecuador, a group of
conservation leaders manged to get the towns to stop all use of not just plastic bags, but also all plastic soda
bottles and cups and eliminated all throw away glass bottles forcing all companies to sell beer and soda
glass bottles be reused. The only one they never could do was eliminating plastic water bottles in markets
and shops in Galapagos. And of course USA was the country that created plastic bottles, cans, bags, etc.
Western Europe does it much better than USA manages such trash and much better efficient recycling.
Long overdue. It's time to get rid of single-use plastics!
Currently some stores in town don't even want you bringing your bags in due to the pandemic. Seems like
an odd time for the City to be dreaming up the next way to impact the citizen's lives. Rather than a ban, I
would look at a bag surcharge. I would also like to see more data on total cost/environmental impact of
bagging options. Also not clear is what will happen with the plastic bags for packing vegetables. Am I to find
a solution for this as well? I think the City should spend more effort painting a realistic picture of what they
think a sustainable system looks like and the advantages it confers rather than just given us the next edict of
what we can't do.
NO FEES INVOLVED AT ALL
Would have to make reusable bags available for free.
I think the ban on plastic bags could be part of a larger project to reduce plastic consumption. I would also
like to see the city educating the public on proper recycling and reducing our consumption of plastic. For
instance many people do not know what types of plastic are and are not recyclable so they put all plastics
and plastic bags in their recycling. To reduce our consumption of plastic we need business (especially the
large ones in our city: Walmart, Target, King Soopers) to tell manufactures they won't buy their products with
obscene amounts of plastic and packaging are eliminated or far reduced. The ban on plastic bags in a small
dent on what we should be doing to curb our plastic consumption.
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Packet Pg. 30 Attachment: Summary of Survey Responses (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
I strongly oppose any initiatives that implement a regressive end-user fee which will disproportionately
impact poor and working class people in our community (to address a problem that is largely not due to their
actions). Instead of putting the burden of reducing plastic pollution on individuals, I instead support system
changes that reduce plastic at the business level. These could include:
- Enacting an “opt-in” versus “opt-out” policy on single-use plastic utensils for restaurant take-out and
delivery
- Ending the use of single-use plastics for dine-in restaurants
- Enacting a business-focused single-use plastics ban similar to Palo Alto’s Disposable Foodware Reduction
Plan
- Funding further programs to incentivize consumers to bring their own reusable bags to retail stores
- Funding further programs to incentive the use of compostable foodware
Paper bags are essentially environmentally friendly. They can be burned with little impact and also have
more re-uses. People can donate to tree planting causes to offset the limited resource use. Reusable bags
are great and I use them, but I’d rather see plastics not be used than punishing folks who forget their bag.
Fees should not be considered if they are to fall disproportionately on low-income individuals. If anyone is to
be charged, the costs should fall on the businesses and manufacturers most responsible for the pollution (or
at least those that can most afford it). If this isn't possible practically or politically then fees should not be
charged.
Please ban plastic bags and make reusable bags available to low income households.
Plastic grocery bags are still useful for many people in lieu of plastic trash bags (trash can liners, pet waste
bags). An out-right ban may not be the best option-- perhaps still allowing use of plastic bags but charging a
fee per bag is a good compromise, along with encouraging/reminding people to use reusable shopping
bags.
Absolutely ban plastic bags! However, I am concerned about the potential impact of a paper bag fee on low
income families. If a fee is instituted with an exception for low income families, how will these customers be
identified? If it's whether they receive a form of food assistance, that won't cover families who do not receive
food assistance, but still would be impacted by the bag fee. Also, there should be a program through the
grocery stores to get free reusable bags into the hands of low income families. If the family qualifies to not
pay the paper bag fee, they should receive at least one reusable bag for each shopping trip for the first
month after the policy is put in place.
I would also strongly support marketing with explanations for why the climate emergency is such a pressing
issue. For example, reusable bags can be printed with climate change statistics which effect Fort Collins and
surrounding areas. Many climate change deniers will most likely scoff at these measures because they lack
education.
I strongly support a ban on single use plastic bags. I do not support charging for paper bags. I would like to
see Fort Collins become a national leader in plastic recovery.
This would be an amazing move for the city.
The ban on plastic bags needs to be put into action as soon as possible. The sooner it is put into action the
sooner the rivers, reservoirs, and other water sources, as well as natural environments, are free of plastic
pollution. The ban needs to also be expanded to include other single-use plastics such as plastic straws,
styrofoam, plastic cutlery, plastic takeout containers, and more.
Personally I too love the convenience of use-n-toss bags — but we just can’t afford this extravagance
anymore.
I'd like to know if question 3(c) above implies that there will be requirements (ordinances) for the grocers to
do training, signage and provide reusable bags? Will those requirements also be audited?
Homelessness, hungry children, crime, depression, poverty. And you are focused on plastic bags. Shame on
you.
This last point in the survey on "disproportionate impacts of the policy on low-income households" shows
you already have an inkling that this policy is a bad idea. I 100% support plastic pollution mitigation but
doing so on the backs of Fort Collins' working class people is cruel and unfair. A tax on the wealthiest
residents will hurt them the least and could fund all kinds of programs like a cloth bag campaign, stream
cleanups, etc. etc. I would also support an "opt in" versus "opt out" ordinance when it comes to single use
plastic utensils at restaurants.
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Packet Pg. 31 Attachment: Summary of Survey Responses (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Although I support a ban on plastic bags, I would prefer a fee instead. Fees allow for people to adjust to the
change and think about their impact
There’s a plastic king scoopers bag in a tree outside of our apartment right now 😐😐
as a low income individual, I don't even know anyone who throws away plastic bags. I, and most people I
know, use them as garbage bags. They come free with my groceries and the thinner plastic actually creates
less plastic pollution than commercial trash bags. they are also better than paper bags due to the increased
cost of transportation per bag and the processes used to create paper. I strongly oppose a plastic bag ban,
but I would like to see more incentives and opportunities to use reusable bags (discounts, free bags, etc).
Plastic bags are a very small part of the issue of pollution. the fact that this survey asks about the impacts of
this ban on low-income households means it's being aknowledged that this has the potential to
disproportionately impact low-income groups. We would need to have measures in place to fix negative
impacts while people have to wait for the results of those studies and changes to be implemented.
I think a phase in policy would be needed to educate and get support from the community. What will replace
current plastic bags for bulk item purchases like loose vegetables in the grocery stores?
Fees at the point of purchase disproportionately impact those who cannot justify the expense of reusable
bags, unfairly target lower-income individuals, and would be seen as an undesirable tax by many
consumers. More equitable and acceptable policies to reduce pollution from single-use products could
include:
- Incentives for reusable bags, designed carefully to avoid the costs of such a measure being shifted onto
poor and working-class individuals (environmental impact of reusable bags themselves should be
considered before implementing these)
- Requiring that businesses ask customers before providing single-use products (opt-in), so products are not
provided to customers who do not need or want them
- Restrictions or incentives on the business side that encourage businesses to use alternative bags,
containers, utensils, etc. that reduce pollution
In a sentance, the burden must be on the corporate groccers and not the consumers.
Ban Plastics
I strongly oppose a regressive end-user fee on plastics which will disproportionately impact poor and working
class people in our community (who are largely not responsible for the plastic pollution this initiative aims to
address). I instead support efforts that more equitably aim to address pollution such as the following:
- Enacting an “opt-in” versus “opt-out” policy on single-use plastic utensils for restaurant take-out and
delivery
- Ending the use of single-use plastics for dine-in restaurants
- Enacting a business-focused single-use plastics ban similar to Palo Alto’s Disposable Foodware Reduction
Plan
- Funding further programs to incentivize consumers to bring their own reusable bags to retail stores
- Funding further programs to incentive the use of compostable foodware
I think this is an awesome first step.
Considering ANY paper bag fee nullifies the entire concept. I fully understand the arguments and
STRONGLY disagree and will refuse any such policy that includes ANY paper bag fees.
I do not support a fee or ban unless the impact on low income people is mitigated.
I am concerned that bag fees and bans disproportionately affect people with low income and any exemption
for low income people would place a stigma on the use of bags which are often necessary for carrying
things.
Rather than charge a fee for paper bags or ban plastic, why not make it more inviting to have people bring
their own bags (paper, plastic or store brands)? Encouragement and incentives go much further than
punishments and fees.
I strongly oppose a regressive end-user fee on plastics which will disproportionately impact poor and working
class people in our community (who are largely not responsible for the plastic pollution this initiative aims to
address). I instead support efforts that more equitably aim to address pollution such as the following:
Like an “opt-in” versus “opt-out” policy on single-use plastic utensils for restaurant take-out and delivery or a
ban on plastics for dine-in restaurants, asking consumers to bring their own reusable bags to retail stores.
Low-income households should be given reusable bags rather than having to pay for paper bags.
This is misguided virtue signaling and ends up hurting the poorest populations the most.
1.5
Packet Pg. 32 Attachment: Summary of Survey Responses (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
I am thinking that the proposed policy needs to be divided into two issues; 1. the banning of plastic bags 2.
putting a fee on paper bags #1 is a no brainer. NO PLASTIC BAGS #2 turns into a very complicated and
unfair approach to solving the problem. The burden of the cost should be assumed by the large grocers,
those with the ability to bear the cost. Many large retail stores give credit to shoppers for bringing their own
bags. Just as many home sewers have responded to the need for masks, bags could be created by
sewers with donated fabric.
This is a burden on low income people, you dumb asses
Prefer implementation earlier than May 2022
Now let’s talk about eliminating air pollution from combustion engines.
I greatly appreciate your willingness to tackle this issue! As a wildlife biologist I have seen first hand the
impacts plastics cause for wildlife, natural areas, and our waterways and feel this is long overdue for a
community such as ours that prides itself on caring for the environment. I would like to see this ban
extended well beyond grocers to all businesses in our community - although grocery stores produce the
greatest impact in regards to plastic bags, there are so many other businesses that need to make this
change! I would also ask that the City begin to evaluate alternatives to all plastic bags and incentive
programs to switching to compostable, bio-degradable, or other more environmentally-friendly bags for trash,
etc. If there was a place to upload images, I would share a photo I took yesterday of a waste disposal site in
eastern Colorado where they have erected huge chain-link fences around the dump that was literally
covered with plastic bags. Please let me know what I can do to help! I work with hundreds of college
students dedicated to sustainability and would be happy to share information with them. Thank you again for
addressing this important issue!
Sincerely,
Ann Randall
Banning plastic bags is good, but a paper bag tax is regressive and only impacts the most needy. It's
possible to make progress without creating new problems and making existing ones worse.
all for a cleaner environment, not at the expense of the working class or low income peoples! if there is an
exemption for them, it has to be highly accessible, publicised, and in no way a burden to achieve
I do not support regressive measures that charge the consumer. How about a yearly fee charged to any
business using plastic bags or utensils? How about a city wide internal audit of plastic use within the city
systems? How about providing reusable bags to residents using a property tax on large homes? There are
many ways to help without laying more burden on the working class.
Ban bottled water
Hello. I cannot believe we are waiting for 2022. The city should of already had this issue resolved, but I do
appreciate the survey. We cannot continue to turn our heads on the plastic bag issue. Its time to move
forward.
Fee for plastic and paper bags
I support banning single-use plastics/plastic bags, but strongly oppose this regressive fee passed on to the
customer. Seriously, fuck off with that. Individuals are not the main polluters and a fee only harms the poor.
Our local DSA chapter has put together the following proposal, which I wholeheartedly support:
- Enacting an “opt-in” versus “opt-out” policy on single-use plastic utensils for restaurant take-out and
delivery
- Ending the use of single-use plastics for dine-in restaurants
- Enacting a business-focused single-use plastics ban similar to Palo Alto’s Disposable Foodware Reduction
Plan
- Funding further programs to incentivize consumers to bring their own reusable bags to retail stores
- Funding further programs to incentive the use of compostable foodware
I’m glad to see the City taking action on this issue. We need to reduce the use of plastic bags and if
shoppers can’t bring their own reusable bags, they should have to pay. Boulder, Breckenridge, and many
other cities in CO have this policy. It works!
Fort Collins should be a leader in reducing and eventually eliminating pollution from all types of plastics—
bags, food containers, single-use items such as straws and stirrers, and micro plastics. These materials are
overwhelming our planet, and micro plastics are being ingested by people and animals. We do not know the
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Packet Pg. 33 Attachment: Summary of Survey Responses (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
extent of the damage that these tiny plastic particles are inflicting on living things, but we cannot wait to find
out. We need to take strong, decisive action now.
Very good. I have doubts regarding the bags that they use for dog poop, that the City distributes in the natural
areas. What is going to happen with those? Impossible to remove.
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Packet Pg. 34 Attachment: Summary of Survey Responses (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Attachment VI: Potential Paths to Further Action on Plastic Pollution:
Expanded Polystyrene and Single-Use Plastic Accessory Items
Expanded Polystyrene (Also known as Styrofoam)
Action Type Pros Cons
Require
compostable
alternatives
- Shifts to potentially
compostable materials
- Retailers can continue to
provide takeout options as
usual
- Could apply to food and
beverage containers
- Alternatives typically cost more; potential
financial burden on business and/or
customers
- No nearby compost infrastructure that
accepts compostable single use items
(and Larimer County considering not
accepting these materials in future
compost facility based on peer facility
feedback)
- No community-wide compost collection
system currently in Fort Collins
- Compostable single use items still have
the possibility to be littered/create litter in
the community
Require recyclable
alternatives
- Shift to locally recyclable
materials
- Prevent shift to non-
recyclable materials other
than EPS
- Could apply to food
containers
- Few recyclable container options exist
(primarily aluminum tins or #5 plastic
tubs)
- Could not apply to beverage containers
as no locally recyclable options for
beverages exist
- Provides fewer choices for restaurants
and may not work well for all foods
- Containers more expensive than EPS
Develop community-
wide reusable
container system
- Shifts away from single-
use alternatives to
reusable options
- Reduces litter materials at
the source
- Could apply to food and
beverage containers
- Would have to develop system to make
this possible (sanitation systems for
reusables, connecting businesses in the
system, fund purchase of containers,
etc.)
- Could present significant up-front costs
Charge a fee - Could contribute to
funding and supporting
businesses to make the
change
- Could apply to food and
beverage containers
- Could put undue financial burden on low-
income customers and businesses to
administer
- Unclear if it would alter consumer
behavior
- No peer community examples
Ban EPS
(Polystyrene)
- Removes polystyrene
from the system
- Alternatives cost more, could have
undue financial burden
- In other communities, restaurants have
primarily shifted to other non-recyclable
single-use plastic items
ATTACHMENT 6 1.6
Packet Pg. 35 Attachment: Potential Paths to Further Action on Plastic Pollution (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Single-Use Plastic Accessory Items
Action Type Pros Cons
Accessory Items On
Request Only
- Businesses do not need
to change what they
currently use
- Businesses can save
money on these products
- Inclusive towards
accessibility community
- Effectiveness depends on
many factors, including staff
training, and can have
varied impact
- Still puts non-
recyclable/compostable
items into the landfill
Require Compostable
Accessory Items
- Prevents single-use
plastics in landfill and
litter
- Some alternatives are
now competitively priced
with single-use plastic
options
- Single use compostable
items can be more
expensive and harder to
source
- No local infrastructure to
compost single use items
Ban on Accessory Items
- Would increase use of
reusable items
- Reduces cost for
businesses to purchase
single-use accessory
items
- Decreases accessibility for
community members who
need accessory items
- Need to consider other
repercussions this would
have on businesses
operations
- No peer community
examples
Additional Information
• Any of these options could be accomplished via ordinance that could be developed in
conjunction with 6-9 months of community engagement (after COVID impacts decrease in
the community).
• Could take a phased approach to any option
o Could begin with ban at all City facilities
Could include vendors at City properties
o Could expand to all mobile vendors at festivals, food trucks, etc.
o Could expand to at all restaurants
o Could potentially include EPS coolers and packing peanuts
• Ordinance implementation could be planned to give retailers time to use up stocks
• Other communities often include an economic hardship provision that allows establishments
to obtain a conditional, time-limited exemption
Peer and Leading City Examples
• EPS is currently banned in two states and over a dozen cities
• No cities in Colorado have legislation targeting EPS
• Single-use items are required to be dispensed by request only in Eugene OR
• Compostable single use items are required in Seattle, WA
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Packet Pg. 36 Attachment: Potential Paths to Further Action on Plastic Pollution (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
DRAFT ORDINANCE FOR DISCUSSION ONLY – SUBJECT TO REVISION
Pending/disposable bags ORD
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ORDINANCE NO. ___, 2021
OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
AMENDING CHAPTER 12 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS TO
ESTABLISH REGULATIONS REGARDING DISPOSABLE BAGS AND MITIGATION OF
OTHER SOURCES OF SINGLE USE PLASTIC POLLUTION
WHEREAS, on March 3, 2015, City Council adopted Resolution 2015-030, updating
community greenhouse gas goals and targets to be achieved by 2020, 2030, and 2050; and
WHEREAS, staff has developed an implementation plan based on the accelerated goals
of the Climate Action Plan (“CAP”) and has identified several initiatives for immediate action
and investment based on guidance provided by the City Council; and
WHEREAS, City Council has also identified plastics pollution as a priority concern,
which aligns with the CAP goals of reducing greenhouse gasses and with the community’s Road
to Zero Waste goal to produce zero waste by 2030 and the City’s strategic objective to sustain
and improve the health of the Cache la Poudre River and all watersheds within the city; and
WHEREAS, because plastic makes up about 10% of landfilled as “municipal solid
waste”, mitigating plastic pollution will be a necessary component of achieving the City’s goal
of producing zero waste by 2030; and
WHEREAS, the use of plastic or paper disposable bags also has other significant impacts
on the environment on a local and global scale, including greenhouse gas emissions, litter, harm
to wildlife, atmospheric acidification, and water consumption, in addition to solid waste
generation; and
WHEREAS, plastic disposable bags must be separately recycled and when incorrectly
included in other recycling streams cause operational problems at recycling processing facilities;
and
WHEREAS, although disposable paper bags may have a lesser impact on waterways and
wildlife than disposable plastic bags, they have higher greenhouse gas emissions and water
impacts throughout their lifecycle; and
WHEREAS, Fort Collins consumers use approximately fifty (50) million disposable bags
from large grocers each year; and
WHEREAS, Fort Collins taxpayers bear the costs associated with the effects of
disposable bags on the solid waste stream, greenhouse gas emissions, the Cache la Poudre
watershed, litter, and other adverse impacts to their environment; and
WHEREAS, City Council has discussed various options for mitigating single-use plastic
pollution, including disposable plastic and paper bags, while continuing to study microplastic
pollution, at three Council Work Sessions on February 11, 2020, October 27, 2020, and
December 8, 2020; and
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WHEREAS, by adoption of Resolution 2020-118 on December 15, 2020, City Council
directed development of an ordinance regulating the use of disposable bags and recognizing that
further regulation of single-use plastics may be adopted by future Council action; and
WHEREAS, City Council desires to adopt this ordinance to protect the public health,
safety and welfare, to maintain and improve the health of the Cache la Poudre watershed and to
further the City's Climate Action Plan and Road to Zero Waste, all of which serve the best
interests of the residents of Fort Collins.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
FORT COLLINS AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. That the foregoing recitals are hereby incorporated herein as findings of
the City Council.
Section 2. That Chapter 12 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby amended
by the addition of a new Article XIII which shall read in its entirety as follows:
ARTICLE XIII
REGULATION OF DISPOSABLE BAGS AND MITIGATION OF OTHER SOURCES OF
SINGLE USE PLASTIC POLLUTION
Sec. 12-300. Scope and Purpose.
The purpose of this Article is to protect the public health, safety and welfare, to maintain
and improve the health of the Cache la Poudre watershed and to further the City's Climate
Action Plan and Road to Zero Waste, all of which serve the best interests of the residents
of Fort Collins. The provisions of this Article shall be effective beginning May 1, 2022.
Sec. 12-301. Definitions.
The following terms used in this Chapter shall have the meanings ascribed to them below
unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
Disposable bag shall mean a bag, other than a reusable bag, provided to a customer at a
checkout stand, cash register, point of sale, or other point of departure by any retail
establishment for the purpose of transporting and carrying away items purchased at the
store. A disposable bag may be made primarily of paper (a disposable paper bag) or
plastic (a disposable plastic bag) or other material that does not meet the standards for a
reusable bag. Disposable bag shall not include:
(a) bags used by consumers inside the store, before the point of sale, to:
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(1) package bulk items, such as fruit, vegetables, nuts, grains, candy or small
hardware items;
(2) contain or wrap frozen foods, meat, or fish;
(3) contain or wrap flowers, potted plants, or other items where dampness
may be a problem; or
(4) contain unwrapped prepared foods or bakery goods.
(b) bags used to protect a purchased item from damaging or contaminating other
items when placed in a reusable bag;
(c) bags provided by pharmacists to contain prescription drugs; or
(d) newspaper bags, door-hanger bags, laundry-dry cleaning bags, or bags sold in
packages containing multiple bags for uses such as food storage, garbage, pet
waste, or yard waste.
Large grocer shall mean a retail business within the city limits that is located in a
permanent building containing at least ten thousand (10,000) square feet of retail space,
that operates year round offering for sale staple foodstuffs, meats, produce, dairy
products or other perishable items primarily for human consumption. Large grocer shall
not include:
(a) temporary vending establishments for fruits, vegetables, packaged meats, and
dairy;
(b) vendors at farmers' markets or other temporary events;
(c) businesses at which foodstuffs are an incidental part of the business. For the
purposes of this subsection (c), food sales will be considered to be “incidental” if such
sales comprise no more than two percent (2%) of the business’s gross sales in the city as
measured by the dollar value of food sales as a percentage of the dollar value of total
sales at any single location.
Reusable bag shall mean a bag that is:
(a) designed and manufactured to withstand repeated uses over a period of
time and have a minimum lifetime of one hundred seventy-five (175) uses;
(b) made from a material that can withstand regular machine washing;
(c) if made from plastic material, not made of plastic film where thickness is
measured in mils;
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(d) designed with the capability to carry minimum of twenty-two (22) pounds over
one hundred seventy-five (175) feet.
Disposable bag fee shall mean a fee collected pursuant to the provisions of this Article
upon each disposable paper bag provided to and used by customers to transport goods
from the store. The amount of the disposable bag fee shall be twenty cents ($0.20) per
bag
Vendor share shall mean ten cents ($0.10) of the disposable bag fee.
Waste reduction program shall mean a plastic pollution mitigation and solid waste and
litter reduction program carried out by the City, which may include, without limitation:
(a) the administration and operation of the Waste Reduction Program and
administration activities to collect all disposable bag fees;
(b) activities and campaigns conducted by the City (or a contracted vendor) to
provide reusable bags to residents and visitors, educate residents, businesses and
visitors about the impact of disposable bags, trash, single-use plastics and other
waste on the waterways and environment and on the health and welfare of its
residents and visitors, the importance of reducing the number of disposable bags
entering the waste stream and to raise awareness about waste reduction and
recycling;
(c) community clean-up events, City activities, and other community-led activities to
reduce or mitigate solid waste and litter;
(d) programs and infrastructure to facilitate and encourage the community to reduce
waste and recycle, including community-led efforts;
(e) creating, expanding, and maintaining equitable outreach and engagement
strategies, including a public website to educate residents on the progress of waste
reduction efforts;
(f) other activities directly related to the reduction of waste from disposable bags,
trash, single-use plastics and other waste and its impact on the waterways and
environment within the city and the Cache la Poudre watershed; and
(g) funding or providing other support for programs and activities conducted by
others in furtherance of these purposes.
Sec. 12-302. Prohibitions.
(a) No large grocer shall provide a disposable plastic bag to a customer at the point of
sale.
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(b) No large grocer shall provide a disposable paper bag to a customer at the point of
sale unless such bag is made of at least forty percent (40%) post-consumer paper
material that is one-hundred percent (100%) recyclable and designed to carry
purchases out of stores.
(c) Nothing in this Article XIII shall prohibit a large grocer from making reusable
bags available for sale or for no cost to customers.
Sec. 12-303. Disposable bag fee requirements.
(a) For each disposable paper bag a large grocer provides to a customer, the large
grocer shall collect from the customer, and the customer shall pay, at the time of
purchase, the disposable bag fee.
(b) All large grocers shall record on the customer transaction receipt the number of
disposable paper bags provided to each customer and the total amount collected
from such customer for the disposable bag fee.
(c) No large grocer may provide a rebate or in any way reimburse a customer for any
part of the disposable bag fee.
(d) No large grocer may exempt any customer from any part of the disposable bag fee
for any reason except as stated in § 12- 305.
(e)The vendor share of all disposable paper bag fees collected by a large
grocer may be retained by the large grocer and used in accordance with
this subsection (e). Each large grocer must create a plan for its use of the
vendor share to implement the disposable bag fee program and encourage
customer use of disposable bags, which plan shall be approved by the City
prior to expenditure of the vendor share.
A plan for use of the vendor share shall be submitted for City approval for each
calendar year from 2022 through 2025, inclusive, and for each 4-calendar year
calendar period thereafter. An approved plan may be amended with the approval
of the City. Each large grocer must use its vendor share of disposable paper bag
fees collected to implement and administer its approved plan. An approved plan
may include, but is not limited to, reimbursement of expenses for signage, staff
training, and support for customers in advance of the initiation of the disposable
bag fee, as well as ongoing expenses for compliance and promotion of the use of
disposable bags. No penalties or fines assessed for noncompliance may be paid
using disposable bag fee revenues.
(f) Each large grocer shall annually report the number and type of disposable and
reusable bags it furnishes, the amount of disposable bag fee revenue collected, the
number of reusable bags sold, and any other elements of the approved plan for use
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of its vendor share. The City Manager shall designate, from time to time, the form
and timing of the annual report due under this subsection.
(g) Nothing in this Article shall prohibit large grocers from providing incentives for
the use of reusable bags through credits or rebates for customers who bring their
own bags to the point of sale for the purpose of carrying away goods.
(h) Nothing in this Article shall prohibit customers from using bags of any type that
they bring into the store themselves or from carrying away goods that are not
placed in a bag.
Sec. 12-304. Payment to and administration of the disposable bag fee by the City.
(a) All disposable paper bag fees collected in excess of the vendor share shall be paid
by the large grocer to the City of Fort Collins Finance Department and used for
the operation and administration of the waste reduction program.
(b)
The City Manager shall administer the disposable bag fee and adopt (and may amend,
from time to time) the waste reduction plan consistent with the scope and purpose
set forth in § 12-301 and the parameters of the definition set forth in § 12-302
above.
(c) The City Manager may adopt administrative rules and regulations to implement
the provisions of this Article.
(d)The City Manager and City Council may suspend the collection and payment of
disposable bag fees and other regulations set forth in or adopted pursuant to this
Article as deemed necessary due to public health emergencies or other unforeseen
circumstances.
Sec. 12-305. Exemptions – Low Income Relief.
A large grocer may provide a disposable paper bag to a customer at no charge if the
customer presents, at the time of purchase, a benefit card reflecting participation in a
federal, state, or county income-qualified aid program, including but not limited to
benefits delivered via Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) such as the federal
Supplemental Nutrition Assistant Program (SNAP) or Supplemental Nutrition Program
for Women, Infants and Children (WIC).
Sec. 12-306. Recordkeeping and Audits.
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(a) Each large grocer shall maintain accurate and complete records of the disposable
bag fees collected under the provisions of this Article and the number of
disposable bags provided to customers, and shall also maintain such books,
accounts, invoices, or other documentation necessary to verify the accuracy and
completeness of such records. It shall be the duty of each large grocer to keep and
preserve all such documents and records, including any electronic information, for
a period of three years from the end of the calendar year in which the documents
or records were generated. In the event of an audit, investigation or other
enforcement action, records and documents must be retained until three years
after notice of completion or resolution of such audit, investigation or
enforcement action.
(b) If requested, each large grocer shall make the foregoing records available for
inspection and audit by the City during regular business hours so that the City
may verify compliance with the provisions of this Article. To the extent
permitted by law, all such records shall be treated as confidential commercial
information.
Sec. 12-307. Reporting; Modifications.
(a) The City Manager shall provide to the City Council an annual report on
implementation and status of the matters described in this Article after the end of
2022 and each calendar year thereafter, which shall address:
(1) equity impacts;
(2) compliance and outcomes including performance metrics related to
number and type of bags distributed; and
(3) presence of single-use plastic bags in the environment as a percentage of
litter removed from sensitive areas such as Natural Areas and the Poudre
River; and
(4) Other relevant and complementary metrics consistent with the scope and
purpose of this Article as recommended by City staff.
(b) Without limitation, City Council reserves the authority and intends to evaluate
and adjust, whether by expanding, contracting or modifying, the requirements and
provisions of this Article:
(1) based on stakeholder engagement or other unforeseen circumstances;
(2) to regulate single-use plastic items in addition to disposable bags; and
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(3) to regulate the use of such items by vendors in the city in addition to large
grocers.
Sec. 12-308. Violations and penalties.
Any person who violates any provision of this Article, whether by acting in a manner
declared to be unlawful or by failing to act as required, commits a civil infraction and
shall be subject to the penalty provisions of City Code subsection 1-15(f).
Section 3. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance is
for any reason held invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent
jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this article or
chapter.
Section 4. This Ordinance is necessary to protect the public health, safety, and
welfare of the residents of the city and covers matters of local concern.
Introduced, considered favorably on first reading, and ordered published this ___ day of
___________, A.D. 2021, and to be presented for final passage on the ___ day of ______, A.D.
2021.
__________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________
City Clerk
Passed and adopted on final reading on this ____ day of ________, A.D. 2021.
__________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________
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City Clerk
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Packet Pg. 45 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
1Mitigating Plastics Pollution
Jacqueline Kozak Thiel and Molly Saylor
ATTACHMENT 8 1.8
Packet Pg. 46 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Questions to Council
1.Do Councilmembers have input regarding the fee per
paper bag at 10 cents,20 cents,or an amount in
between?
2.Do Councilmembers support staff’s recommendations
on key policy and related program details?
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Packet Pg. 47 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
STRATEGIC
ALIGNMENT
Environmental Health
•4.4 Zero waste
•4.9 Poudre River health
BUDGET
Midcycle funding
•$35K each for
macroplastics and
microplastics
Plastics Pollution
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COUNCIL
PRIORITY
Plastics Pollution
•Microplastics
•Macroplastics
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Packet Pg. 48 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Plastic Pollution Ballot Resolution
Resolution directed staff to prepare ballot language with the
following policy elements and logistical considerations:
•Po licy details (Staff recommended base case)
•Hybrid approach –ban plastic bags, fee on paper
•Large grocers
•Referendum
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Packet Pg. 49 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Engagement
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•Online survey tools for engagement and comments on ballot
language and related ordinance.
•Begin: Mid-December
•End: January 31
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Packet Pg. 50 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Fee Structure
Staff recommendation: Split the fee 50-50 between City and grocer
Context: Local grocer costs to implement ordinance are unclear and
may range from 1 to 10 cents/bag
•By requiring a grocer fee revenue plan
•Understand their costs
•Allow room for innovative ideas
•Flexible over time
Alternatives: Scale grocer share up or down; consider additional
requirements if grocer keeps all or large share
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Packet Pg. 51 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Fee Amount
•Options:
•10 cents –Most common for Colorado communities with fee or hybrid
approaches, lower impact on low-and medium income households
•20 cents –Greater behavior change and environmental outcomes
•An amount between 10 and 20 cents
•Legal requirement: Establish a nexus between the fee and the
related benefit to fee payer through fee study
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Packet Pg. 52 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Program Costs
·Administration of ordinance
·Providing reusable bags, education and outreach
·Litter and waste reduction and clean-up activities
·Programs and infrastructure to reduce waste and increase recycling,
including community-led efforts
·Equipment designed to minimize trash and pollution
·Equitable outreach and engagement strategies
·Other activities related to litter and waste reduction and recycling
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Packet Pg. 53 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
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Cost description Annual cost range (low)(high)
a.Ordinance admin, outreach, engagement $260,000 $300,000
b.Reusable bags, starting with low-and medium-
income $10,000 $30,000
c.Litter related City-costs $100,000 $150,000
d.Plastic and paper recycling costs at TRC $50,000 $100,000
e.Expanded equitable engagement, outreach, and
community partnership $175,000 $300,000
f.Solid waste reduction, recycling, plastic pollution
mitigation efforts $200,000 $500,000
To tal Cost $795,000 $1,380,000
Cost per Bag (50%retained by City; 75%reduction in
bags)$0.12 $0.21
Cost Recovery
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Packet Pg. 54 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Fee Amount
•Bottom line: Fee summary supports 10-20 cent/paper bag
•Options:
•10 cents –Most common for Colorado communities with fee or hybrid
approaches, lower impact on low-and medium income households
•20 cents –Greater behavior change and environmental outcomes
•An amount between 10 and 20 cents
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Packet Pg. 55 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Income Qualified Relief
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Staff recommendation: Customers with benefit card reflecting
participation in a federal, state, or county income-qualified aid programs,
including:
•Supplemental Nutrition Assistant Program (SNAP)
•Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children
(WIC).
Context:
•Common approach in other cities
•Standardized form of ID
•Low-and medium-income households receive free reusable bags first
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Packet Pg. 56 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
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Packet Pg. 57 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Income Qualified Exemption
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Packet Pg. 58 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
2021 Resources
2021 Outreach to prepare for 2022 ordinance:
•Free reusable bags for low-and moderate-income households
•Outreach and engagement campaign
•New FTE to roll out ordinance
Scalable costs: $70k-87.5k in 2021
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Packet Pg. 59 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Council Consideration Points
Consideration Points Recommendation
Fee amount Could range from 10-20 cents
Fee structure 50-50 split between grocer and City
Program costs and cost recovery Plastic pollution mitigation and solid
waste reduction
Income-qualified relief Federal, State, County income
qualified aid programs
e.g. WIC and SNAP benefits
2021 resources Fund 2021 ordinance implementation
prep and outreach: $70k-87.5k
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Packet Pg. 60 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)
Questions to Council
1.Do Councilmembers have input regarding the fee per paper bag at 10 cents,
20 cents,or an amount in between?
2.Do Councilmembers support staff’s recommendations on key policy and
related program details?
·City and grocer each retain 50%of the fee
·Fee revenue supports costs of new plastic pollution mitigation and solid waste reduction
program
·Income-qualified exemption for WIC and SNAP benefit recipients
·Provide resources to support the program before ordinance implementation
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Packet Pg. 61 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9858 : Plastic Pollution Ballot Measure - Draft Bag Ordinance)