HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOUNCIL - COMPLETE AGENDA - 08/31/2021 - WORK SESSION
City of Fort Collins Page 1
Jeni Arndt, Mayor
Emily Francis, District 6, Mayor Pro Tem
Susan Gutowsky, District 1
Julie Pignataro, District 2
Tricia Canonico, District 3
Shirley Peel, District 4
Kelly Ohlson, District 5
Remote Meeting
City Hall West
300 LaPorte Avenue
Fort Collins, Colorado
Cablecast on FCTV
Channel 14 on Connexion
Channel 14 and 881 on Comcast
Carrie Daggett Kelly DiMartino Tammi Pusheck
City Attorney Interim City Manager Interim 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
August 31, 2021
6:00 PM
• CALL TO ORDER.
1. City Manager’s 2022 Recommended Budget. (staff: Kelly DiMartino, Travis Storin, Lawrence
Pollack; 20 minute presentation; 2 hour discussion)
The purpose of this item is to review the economic, revenue and expense assumptio ns included in
the 2022 City Manager's Recommended Budget, which will be delivered to Council and available to
the public on September 1, 2021. This work session will also provide an overview of the major 2022
budget themes, public feedback opportunities and the schedule of Council budget meetings and
Public Hearings during September through November.
2. Council Meeting Norms and Rules. (staff: Ginny Sawyer, Tammi Pusheck, Carrie Daggett; 10
minute presentation; 50 minute discussion)
The purpose of this item is to explore options for Council meeting norms and rule adjustments.
City of Fort Collins Page 2
3. Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview. (staff: Rebecca Everette, Theresa Connor;
12 minute presentation; 30 minute discussion)
The purpose of this item is to provide an overview of planning considerations, policy guidance, and
future projects in northeast Fort Collins (north of Vine Drive, east of Lemay Avenue and generally
encompassed in the Mountain Vista Subarea). As the largest area of mostly vacant, agricultural land
in the Growth Management Area, significant development is anticipated over the coming decades.
Council may be involved in various decisions related to planning and development in this area of the
community, including plan amendments, development plans, annexation and zoning decisions, utility
service agreements, metropolitan districts, and funding for capital projects. New and proposed
development in the area has necessitated a holistic analysis of utility provisio n, the transportation
network and community amenities in northeast Fort Collins, which pose both opportunities and
constraints for the City. Staff will share background information and context for Council to set the
stage for future action items.
• ANNOUNCEMENTS.
• ADJOURNMENT.
DATE:
STAFF:
August 31, 2021
Kelly DiMartino, Interim City Manager
Travis Storin, Chief Finance Officer
Lawrence Pollack, Budget Director
WORK SESSION ITEM
City Council
SUBJECT FOR DISCUSSION
City Manager’s 2022 Recommended Budget.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this item is to review the economic, revenue and expense assumptions included in the 2022 City
Manager's Recommended Budget, which will be delivered to Council and available to the public on September 1,
2021. This work session will also provide an overview of the major 2022 budget themes, public feedback
opportunities and the schedule of Council budget meetings and Public Hearings during Sept ember through
November.
GENERAL DIRECTION SOUGHT AND SPECIFIC QUESTIONS TO BE ANSWERED
1. What questions or concerns does Council have about the budget assumptions which are being included in the
Recommended Budget?
2. What questions does Council have regarding the proposed schedule for discussion of the Recommended
Budget?
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION
Budgeting for Outcomes (BFO) Process Status
The 2021 budget process would typically have been a ‘revision year’, which is where the second year of the City’s
two-year, or biennial, budget would be revised. However, the City’s budgeting process was significantly impacted
by the global pandemic. It was determined that modifications would need to be made to the processes for both
2020 and 2021, due to the significant unknowns about impacts to our community. In response, Council approved
Ordinance No. 067 to suspend the City Code to allow the adoption of a one -year budget and temporarily revise
the City’s budgeting process. (Attachment 1)
For 2022, the primary impact of these modifications is that , Council will again adopt a one -year budget instead of
the traditional two-year (biennial) budget. Thereafter, the City will return to a two-year budget. Unlike in the
modified process last year, the BFO Teams of City s taff members were successfully invoked this year, and that
added significant value to the process and the decisions made by the executive team. Also, public engagement
for the 2022 Recommended Budget resumed as it normally did prior to the pandemic. Initi al feedback received in
May and June helped inform the decisions for the recommended budget, and the remaining inputs through
September will be shared with Council as final decisions are being made for the adopted 2022 Budget.
Key components of our budgeting process continued this cycle, including budget requests based on the programs
and services provided to the community, a key aspect of Budgeting for Outcomes. These budget requests specify
direct linkage to at least one strategic objective in the City’s adopted 2020 Strategic Plan, as well as performance
measures directly related to the proposed program or service. These three integrated components of
program/service level offers, linkage to strategic objectives, and inclusion of performance metrics are an important
part of the City’s ongoing organizational performance management process and executive review.
Another important modification this year was to also focus on the newly elected Council’s adopted priorities.
These were included in the executive conversations and several offers to support those priorities were created
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August 31, 2021 Page 2
and recommended for funding.
The City Manager’s Recommended Budget will still be published before the first Monday in September, as
required by City Charter. It is currently targete d to be delivered to Councilmembers on September 1 and be
available to the public thereafter. The traditional Council process will then continue with two public hearings and
three work sessions scheduled prior to First Reading.
Budget Assumptions
Although the economy has been recovering well throughout 2021, there are still many unknowns about the
pandemic, especially with the Delta Variant and its impact to our community. Each month brings new data about
how the economy is recovering, and staff is monitoring that data closely.
Over the past decade of moderate growth, the City has also prudently built healthy fund balances (also referred to
as ‘reserves’). Reserves above City policy minimums are often intended for larger capital purchases or other one -
time expenses and are typically used in that manner. They are also, however, critically important in times like
now, to bridge revenue gaps while maintaining services to the residents and businesses of our community.
Although to a much lesser extent than in the 2021 Budget, the 2022 Recommended Budget does include
reserves for funding of ongoing expenses at a higher level than staff considers ideal.
The City Manager’s Recommended Budget was developed on these key assumptions:
• Focus on Council and community priorities reflected in Council’s adopted priorities and the City’s adopted
2020 Strategic Plan.
• Maintain existing operations, programs, and services, while continuing to ensure this is done in a safe and
efficient manner.
• Revenue recovery has been very strong to date in 2021, and staff has forecasted modest growth for most
revenue sources in 2022 off of that higher-than-expected base in 2021.
o For Sales Tax specifically, 2022 is forecasted to increase by 3.0% over the revised 2021 forecast, which
has been revised considerably when compared to the original 2021 budget, given the positive 2021
results to-date. The 2022 budget assumes $132.4M, whereas the 2021 budget assumed $112.8M.
o For Use Tax, 2022 is forecasted to increase to $19.8M compared to $18 .0M in 2021, and this is based on
continued economic activity, building activity, and business investment.
• Utility rates are proposed to increase only in the Light and Power Fund, by 2.0%. Aside from purchased
power cost increases, this rate increase is to maintain operations and preserve fund balances (i.e., reserves)
in preparation for an anticipated debt issuance in 2023. The Water, Wastewater, and Stormwater rates are
proposed to hold steady from 2021 to 2022.
• After no budgeted increases in 2021, the average salary pool increases for City staff in the 2022 Budget are
proposed at 4.0%. Negotiations will occur this fall for any contractual increases in the collective bargaining
agreement with the Fraternal Order of Police.
• Salary and benefits are budgeted at 97% of total estimated costs to incorporate the impact of personnel
vacancy savings throughout the year.
The City Manager’s Recommended Budget is built around several key themes:
• Making strategic investments to “Future Proof” the City
• Asset management
• Difficult trade-offs
• Recovery-driven investments funded by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)
• Addressing social vulnerabilities of our community
• Budget Equity Team
• Preserving a meaningful and market-competitive employee experience
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August 31, 2021 Page 3
Council Budget Meetings
Council has a series of work sessions scheduled in September and October to discuss the proposed 2022
Recommended Budget. Each work session will include staff presentations regarding specific Outcomes, followed
by an opportunity for questions and discussion.
Key dates for Council discussions and public hearings are as follows:
Meeting Date Topic
September 14, 2021 Work Session Presentations, Questions and Discussion: • Culture and
Recreation • Economic Health • Environmental Health
• Transportation and Mobility
September 21, 2021 Regular Meeting Budget Public Hearing #1 of 2
September 28, 2021 Work Session Presentations, Questions and Discussion: • Neighborhood
Livability and Social Health • Safe Community • High Performing
Government
October 5, 2021 Regular Meeting Budget Public Hearing #2 of 2
October 12, 2021 Work Session General Discussion - Final Council Direction
November 2, 2021 Regular Meeting First Reading of the 2022 Budget and the 2022 Appropriation
Ordinance
November 16, 2021 Regular Meeting Second Reading of the 2022 Budget and the 2022 Appropriation
Ordinance
ATTACHMENTS
1. Ordinance No. 067, 2020 w/ Agenda Item Summary (PDF)
2. Powerpoint Presentation (PDF)
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Agenda Item 7
Item # 7 Page 1
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY May 5, 2020
City Council
STAFF
Darin Atteberry, City Manager
Lawrence Pollack, Budget Director
Travis Storin, Interim Chief Finance Officer
John Duval, Legal
SUBJECT
First Reading of Ordinance No. 067, 2020 Suspending for Fiscal Years 2021 and 2022 the Biennial Budget
Term Required by City Code Section 8-1 and Approving the Temporary Revision of the City’s Budgeting
Process for the 2021 and 2022 Budgets.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This item is coming to Council because it meets the following Priority: (2) Emergency-related items that are not
as urgent but need Council consideration.
The purpose of this item is to acknowledge modifications to the City's biennial budgeting process due to the
current unknowns of the depth and duration of the COVID-19 Pandemic and impacts to the local economy and
City revenue streams.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends adoption of the Ordinance on First Reading.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION
City Charter Article V, Section 2 provides that the City Manager shall file with the City Clerk on or before the first
Monday in September preceding each budget term the proposed budget for that ensuing budget term. The
City’s budget term was set in City Code Section 8-1 as being two fiscal years, the next of which is for the fiscal
years 2021 and 2022 (2021-22 Budget Term).
The COVID-19 global pandemic has caused significant turmoil to economies around the globe and is expected
to create significant revenue shortfalls for local governments throughout the nation, the depth and duration of
which are not currently known.
Thus, the City Manager is recommending that Council suspend for the 2021-22 budget term, by the adoption of
this Ordinance, the biennial budget term requirement in Code Section 8-1 in order to allow for a one-year budget
term for both 2021 and 2022, but to return to the biennial budget term required by Code Section 8-1 beginning
with fiscal years 2023 and 2024.
The City Manager is also planning to forego using the BFO process for the 2021 and 2022 budget terms and in
its place to use a revised budgeting process better suited to addressing the economic uncertainties that now
exist because of the pandemic. This revised budget process will still include prioritizing the community’s needs
as established by Council in its recent adoption of the City’s 2020 Strategic Plan. This will be done in a way that
will strive to support and retain the City’s workforce, provide clear and frequent communications to Council and
the community concerning the process, and that will use a variety of budget-balancing strategies, such as
ATTACHMENT 1
COPY1.1
Packet Pg. 6 Attachment: Ordinance No. 067, 2020 w/ Agenda Item Summary (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
Agenda Item 7
Item # 7 Page 2
adjustment to service levels, use of reserves, and the optimal deployment of funds received from the state and
federal governments due to the Pandemic. COPY1.1
Packet Pg. 7 Attachment: Ordinance No. 067, 2020 w/ Agenda Item Summary (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
COPY1.1Packet Pg. 8Attachment: Ordinance No. 067, 2020 w/ Agenda Item Summary (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
COPY1.1Packet Pg. 9Attachment: Ordinance No. 067, 2020 w/ Agenda Item Summary (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
COPY1.1Packet Pg. 10Attachment: Ordinance No. 067, 2020 w/ Agenda Item Summary (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
2021 Budget Preview
Au gust 31, 2021
ATTACHMENT 2 1.2
Packet Pg. 11 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
2Agenda
•Process for the 2022 Recommended Budget
•Budget Assumptions
•Budget Themes and Insights
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Packet Pg. 12 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
3The Designed Two-year Process
Mar Apr May Ju n Ju l Aug Sep Oct Nov
Budge t Time Line &Proce ss
Strategic Plan
Finalized
Budget Proposals
Developed / BFO Teams
Evaluate & Rank
City Manager &
Executive Team
Evals & Modifies
Council Discussion / Public
Hearings / Budget Ad option
Strategic Objectives
become the basis
for ranking Budget
Proposals (Offers)
Staff develops
Offers to achieve
Strategic Objectives
BFO Teams
evaluate and rank
Offers
Executive Team input
to align with Strategic
Plan and Council
Priorities
City Manager ’s
Recommended
Budget presented to
City Council on
September 1
We Are Here
Finalize Budget and
adopt by the end of November
The BFO Teams were invoked again for the 2022 Budget and public
engagement started in May, unlike last year ’s one-year budget
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Packet Pg. 13 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
4CityCouncil’s Budget Discussions
Work Session
1.Culture &
Recreation
2.Economic Health
3.Environmental
Health
4.Tr ansportation &
Mobility
Work Session
•Budget
Assumptions
and themes
August September October November
31st 14th
Work Session
•General
Discussion and
final guidance
28th
2nd
•1st Reading
16th
•2nd Reading
12th
21st 5th
•Budget Public Hearings 1 and 2
Work Session
5. Neighborhood
Livability & Social
Health
6.Safe Community
7.High Performing
Government
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Packet Pg. 14 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
5
2022 Budget Assumptions
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Packet Pg. 15 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
6Citywide Revenue ($M)
The BFO Teams were invoked again for the 2022 Budget and public
engagement started in May, unlike last year ’s one-year budget
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Packet Pg. 16 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
7General Fund Ongoing Revenue
•Sales and Use Tax: 5% decline in
2020; Now projecting 13% increase
2021 and 3% increase in 2022
•Property Ta x: 11 % in 2020; 3% in
2021; 6% increase in 2022
•68% goes to PFA
•PILOTs and other revenues relatively
flat
Year
Ongoi ng
General Fund +
KF CG Re ve nue s
$ C hange vs
prior ye ar
% Change vs
pri or ye ar
2019 170,444,224 7,049,314 4.3%
2020 175,987,224 5,543,000 3.3%
2021 167,183,063 (8,804,161)-5.0%
2022 187,033,830 19,850,767 11.9%
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Packet Pg. 17 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
8Use of new funding ($M)
38.7
0.0
8.9
3.2
5.7
4.1
4.7
12.1
0.0
10.0
20.0
30.0
40.0
2022 "New"
Revenue -
Citywide
Sustainably
fund ongoing
expenses
Lifted Hiring
Freeze
Recommended
pay increases
ARPA-funded
enhancement
offers
Partially
restore 2021
reductions
2022
Enhancements
2022 Funding
Status
Approximately $21M in overall enhancement offers included in Recommended 2022 Budget
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Packet Pg. 18 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
9UtilityRate Assumptions
Utility Rate Changes:
Actual Actual Budget
Utility 2020 2021 2022
L&P 5.0%3.0%2.0%
Water 0.0%0.0%0.0%
Wastewater 0.0%0.0%0.0%
Storm Water 2.0%0.0%0.0%
•Electric rate increases due to anticipated increased power supply costs
from Platte River Power Authority (PRPA)
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Packet Pg. 19 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
10Historical Budgeted Use of Reserves
Fund 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
General Fund $4.0 $4.9 $6.2 $6.2 $6.2 $5.1 $3.4 $4.0 $8.4 $5.3
Capi tal Expans ion 2.3 0.1 6.6 1.1 - - - 1.4 3.5 0.1
KFCG 2.6 0.9 2.7 2.8 5.2 4.8 1.7 1.5 3.1 2.0
Neighborhood Park land 0.8 1.1 - - 0.8 1.2 1.4 - - 2.9
Natural A reas 0.4 - 0.2 - 0.6 1.3 0.3 - 0.3 1.1
Tr ans it 0.1 0.1 0.5 0.6 0.4 0.4 0.1 - 1.5 -
Tr ans port at ion Cap Ex - - - - 0.9 1.1 5.4 0.2 1.1 -
Tr ans port at ion 0.6 0.2 1.3 0.5 1.4 2.8 2.2 2.6 1.5 0.8
L&P 6.3 7.1 6.1 8.2 9.5 4.5 0.3 - 1.6 -
Water 3.2 4.6 - 7.4 1.1 1.0 - - 2.7 5.9
Wastewater 1.5 0.7 - 3.5 1.3 6.8 - - 7.0 0.5
Stormwat er - - 1.4 0.1 1.3 1.1 - - 4.9 -
Self Insuranc e 0.6 0.6 0.3 0.3 - - 0.0 0.1 - -
Data & Communications 0.5 - 0.3 0.2 1.7 0.2 0.9 0.5 0.5 0.7
Benefits 1.7 1.6 0.2 0.2 - - - 0.6 1.1 3.8
CS A 0.7 0.7 0.4 0.5 - 0.1 0.3 0.2 - 1.6
All Other Funds 4.8 0.8 2.7 1.2 1.7 1.7 2.6 0.9 10.4 2.6
Gra nd Total $30.1 $23.5 $28.8 $32.7 $32.1 $32.1 $18.6 $12.0 $47.6 $27.3
Not e:Th e figures above ex clude the General Employees Ret irement Plan Fund,Broadband Fund,the A meric an Rec overy Plan Act (ARPA)
and the Downt own Development Authori ty.
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Packet Pg. 20 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
11Cost Assumptions
2022
General Inflation 3.0%
Salary Adjustments 4.0%
Medical Costs 7.5%
Dental Costs 0.0%
Retirement 401/457 Contributions No Change
GERP Supplemental Contribution $1.1M
Budget Staffing of Total Personnel Costs 97%
Pressure to Restore 2021 Reductions Requested Sellers to
prioritize with other
Enhancements
1.2
Packet Pg. 21 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
12
2022 Budget Themes and Insights
1.2
Packet Pg. 22 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
13Major Themes with 2022 Budget
•Making Strategic Investments to “Future Proof” the City
•Asset Management
•Difficult Trade-offs
•Recovery-driven investments funded by American Rescue
Plan Act (ARPA)
•Addressing Social Vulnerabilities of our Community
•Building Equity into the Budget Process
•Preserving a Meaningful and Market-Competitive Employee
Experience
1.2
Packet Pg. 23 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
2022 Budget Engagement 14
Phase Goals Ta ctics Results
1
(Mar –May)
•Build awareness of 2022 budget
& engagement process
•Solicit ideas & feedback about
community priorities
•Community Survey
•Partner Engagement Preview (Mar 3)
•OurCity page/content
•Engagement Toolkit
•Over 800 community
survey responses
•Connected with
approx. 20 partners
2
(Jun –Aug)
•Drive OurCity
engagement/feedback
•Ta rgeted Stakeholder Outreach
•Engagement summary to BLT
•Social Media
•OurCity
•Press Release
•Direct Email
•20K reached on social
media
•1.9K OurCity page
visits (685 informed /
172 engaged)
3
(Sep –Nov)
•Share Recommended Budget
and solicit feedback
•Online community forums
•OurCity tools
•Work Sessions & Public Hearings
•Email/letter collection
https://ourcity.fcgov.com/2022budget
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Packet Pg. 24 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
15
Brief OurCity Demonstration
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Packet Pg. 25 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
16
•3 Virtual Budget Forums will be conducted
–Budget Forum #1: September 2, 5:30 –6:30 p.m.
Outcomes: Neighborhood Livability & Social Health // Environmental Heath
–Budget Forum #2: September 8, 4:00 –5:00 p.m.
Outcomes: Safe Community //Tr ansportation & Mobility
–Budget Forum #3: September 9, 5:30 –6:30 p.m.
Outcomes: Economic Health //Culture and Recreation // High Performing Government
•Each forum w ill cover 2 to 3 Outcomes
•Will be recorded and posted to ourcity.fcgov.com/2022budget
Upcoming Budget Forums
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Packet Pg. 26 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
172021 Council Budget Meetings
September 14th Work Session •Culture and Recreation
•Economic Health
•Environmental Health
•Tr ansportation & Mobility
September 28th Work Session •Neighborhood Livability and Social Health
•Safe Community
•High Performing Government
September 21st Council Meeting •Budget Public Hearing #1 of 2
October 12th Work Session
•Budget Public Hearing #2 of 2October 5th Council Meeting
•General Discussion –Final Council Direction
November 2nd Council Meeting •First Reading
November 16th Council Meeting •Second Reading
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Packet Pg. 27 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
18
Council Discussion
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Packet Pg. 28 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
19
Appendix
1.2
Packet Pg. 29 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
20Notable Enhancement Offers
•5 new Mental Health Response FTEs in Police Services
•Support of Council’s 31 adopted priorities (see next slide)
•Wa ter supply acquisitions
•Design of major facility construction/upgrades (Municipal Court, Fleet
Shop, Civic Center, Southeast Community Center)
•Natural Areas restorations
•Cybersecurity risk management
•Childcare support
•Staffing increases in Municipal Court and City Attorney’s Office
1.2
Packet Pg. 30 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
21Notable Enhancement Offers –Council Priorities
•Analysis of PSD & Transportation Coordination
•Local and Regional Air Quality Monitoring
•Co-create City Tree Canopy
•Homelessness Initiatives Increases
•Future 24/7 Shelter Engagement Support
•Analysis of implementing 15-minute Neighborhoods
•In addition, staff is accelerating “quick wins” into its 2021 plans utilizing
existing budget, e.g. Minimum Wage Engagement & Analysis
•All 31 priorities’timelines/plans will be reported at 8/31 work session
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Packet Pg. 31 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
22Notable Restoration Offers
•Restoration of $4.7M of prior year ’s $15M of budget cuts, including:
–Tr ansfort pre-pandemic service levels
–Weekend hours at recreation and cultural facilities
–Parks maintenance budget
–Police Services training and operating expenses
–Street maintenance program
–Humane Society funding
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Packet Pg. 32 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
23Challenges Not Addressed in the 2022 Budget
•Ongoing funding for Parks, Transit, and Affordable Housing ($14M+)
•Critical repairs to Mulberry Pool HVAC and Roof ($3.5M)
•Rolland Moore Park Improvements ($4.5M)
•Expansion/renovation of Municipal Court ($2.4M)
•City Park Train and Pickleball Courts ($5.1M)
1.2
Packet Pg. 33 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10558 : 2022 Budget Preview)
DATE:
STAFF:
August 31, 2021
Ginny Sawyer, Policy and Project Manager
Tammi Pusheck, Interim City Clerk
Carrie Daggett, City Attorney
WORK SESSION ITEM
City Council
SUBJECT FOR DISCUSSION
Council Meeting Norms and Rules.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this item is to explore options for Council meeting norms and rule adjustments.
GENERAL DIRECTION SOUGHT AND SPECIFIC QUESTIONS TO BE ANSWERED
1. What questions do Councilmembers have regarding any of the following and what feedback do
Councilmembers have about changes to Council’s meeting procedures?
Council Remote Participation (A):
A1. Remote participation as a Council body
A2. Remote participation as a Councilmember - expanded
A3. Remote Sub-committees
Public Comment and Agenda (B):
B1. Advance sign-up for public comment
B2. Combine general public comment with comment on consent agenda items and allow separate comment on
discussion items
B3. Combine public comment with comment on all agenda items (except hearings as required)
B4.Time limit for overall public comment
B5. Only allow Councilmembers to pull consent items
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION
In 2020, as COVID-related restrictions began, the City quickly responded by enacting Emergency Orders to allow
for remote meeting and participation options. The remote experience has been a unique “test setting” for
efficiency, effectiveness, access, technology needs, and personal preference. Now that COVID re strictions are
lifting, and Emergency Orders no longer seem relevant, this item seeks to identify any Council meeting norms or
rule changes that could be made available on an on -going basis. The current Council Meeting Procedures
adopted by Resolution 2019-064 are included for reference (Attachment 1) with the order of business as follows:
1. Proclamations and Presentations
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Call meeting to Order
4. Roll Call
5. City Manager’s Agenda Review (and opportunity for Manager to pull Consent Items)
6. Opportunity for City Council to Pull Consent Items
7. Opportunity for Citizens to Pull Consent Items
8. Citizen Participation
9. Citizen Participation Follow-up by Council
10. Consent Calendar vote
11. Staff Reports
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August 31, 2021 Page 2
12. Councilmember Reports
13. City Manager/Council-Pulled Consent items
14. Items Needing Individual Consideration
15. Citizen-Pulled Consent Items
16. Other Business
17. Adjournment
Staff has identified three key changes related specifically to Council participation and five potential options related
to meeting rules. (Attachment 2)
Council Participation (A):
These changes address the three scenarios of Council participating remotely. Any changes to address remote
participation would strictly allow the option, not make it mandatory.
A1. Remote Participation as a Body:
• Council is currently allowed to meet in-person, remotely, or as a hybrid only during COVID for COVID
reasons. To continue to allow this flexibility, Code and Rules changes would be required. Changes would
remove remote participation options being related to COVID or an emergency and would focus on more
clearly defining what “being present” means in the Code.
A2. Remote Participation as Individuals:
• Individual Councilmembers are currently allowed to opt to participate remotely during COVID and for COVID
reasons. Code and Rules changes are needed to allow individual Councilmembers to participate remotely in
all types of meetings, for any reason. This change would include Special meetings and Executive Ses sions
which would allow for greater efficiency and participation for Councilmembers. Exceptions would be made for
quasi-judicial hearings which would likely require in-person participation.
A3. Remote participation as Sub-committees:
• Council sub-committees are currently allowed to meet in-person or remotely only during COVID for COVID
reasons. Code and Rules changes are required for non-COVID times or reasons.
Meeting Rules/Public Comment Adjustments (B)
The five rule changes below mostly focus on public comment. They are not dependent upon one another, but
some actions could influence others. These changes could be written and adopted in such a way that some or all
could be tried as a pilot and evaluated in the future.
B1. Sign-up requirement for public comment:
• Would require electronic sign-up by a pre-determined time prior to Council meeting. Sign-up would open
when the agenda is posted and would close at a pre-determined time (likely just prior to meeting start.)
• Sign-up allows Council to plan for the meeting, fairly prioritize agenda-related comments and efficiently call
names.
• Sign-up can occur on website through computer, phone, and if needed a kiosk in the lobby.
B2. Expand public comment to include anything on the consent agenda and ge neral comments, in order to allow
Councilmembers to decide whether to pull consent items for discussion:
• Priority could be given to speakers wishing to comment on agenda items.
• This would enable Councilmembers to evaluate whether consent items require discussion and otherwise
allow items to remain on consent (if combined with allowing only Councilmembers to pull items).
• This could reduce confusion created by the current consent calendar process and avoid abuse.
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B3. Add discussion item comments under general public comment time as well as consent item comments:
• Similar to the above, require all comments on discussion items at the beginning of the meeting with no
comment during the item discussion.
• Would need to consider adequacy of opportunity to comment and exceptions for quasi-judicial or other formal
public hearings.
• This could prevent confusion of when residents should speak to which items and would also allow for resident
comment early in the evening if a discussion item was occurring much later. Council would receive all input at
once early in the meeting.
B4. Time allocation for public comment:
• This item would limit the total time allotted for public comment and would need to consider combined impact
with other limits, above.
• This option may be best paired with B1 to ensure comments related to agenda items are heard.
• Clear standards and expectations would need to be established to assure fair treatment for those wishing to
speak.
B5. Only allow Councilmembers to pull Consent Items :
• Would need to consider exceptions for quasi-judicial and other formal public hearings and develop standard
to guide decisions to pull items.
• Community members would be able to ask questions regarding consent items during public comment and
could also request Councilmembers to pull an item.
• This could allow residents to express their questions earlier in the meeting than for public -pulled items under
the current process.
Most of these items could be enacted through a Resolution of meeting rules. A Code update by ordinance is
required for some changes (such as to the consent calendar process) and is recommended for better definition of
some key terms, such as Councilmember “presence” at a meeting.
In June of 2021, a memo and chart summarizing a review of select peer cities was provided to Council.
(Attachment 3) Thirty-six cities were surveyed (11 from Colorado). Several of these cities require the public to
sign up to speak at a council meeting, either online, by email, or in person at the meeting . Many of these cities do
not allow the public to pull consent items but rather allow them to request that items be pulled by a
Councilmember or Council. Some cities allocate time for general public comment (not about agenda items) and
some do not, and some limit the time for general comment while others do not. Some councils use a different
process for “public hearing” items that allows fuller comment and combine all other comments into one segment
of the meeting. The chart illustrates a variety of ways these matters may be handled for discussion purposes.
No public engagement has been conducted to date. Based on Council direction some level of education,
awareness, and involvement could be designed.
ATTACHMENTS
1. 2019 Council Procedures (PDF)
2. Key Changes and Options to Council Meeting Rules (PDF)
3. Public Comment Comparison (PDF)
4. Powerpoint Presentation (PDF)
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Rules of Procedure
Governing the Conduct of City Council Meetings
and Work Sessions
Adopted May 21, 2019
Resolution 2019-064
Section 1. Order of Business for Regular or Special Council Meetings.
a. Council business at regular Council meetings shall be conducted in the following
order (except as provided in Subsection 1.c, 1.d, 1.e or 1.f, below):
(1) Proclamations and Presentations. (Prior to the meeting)
(2) Pledge of Allegiance
(3) Call Meeting to Order
(4) Roll Call
(5) City Manager’s Agenda Review (including removal of items from Consent
Calendar for individual discussion)
(6) Opportunity for City Council to Pull Consent Items
(7) Opportunity for Citizens to Pull Consent Items
(8) Citizen Participation
(9) Citizen Participation Follow-up
(10) Consent Calendar
(11) Consent Calendar Follow-up
(12) Staff Reports
(13) Councilmember Reports
(14) City Manager/Council-Pulled Consent Items
(15) Items Needing Individual Consideration
(16) Citizen-Pulled Consent Items
(17) Other Business
(18) Adjournment
b. Council business at special Council meetings shall be conducted in the following
order (except as provided in Subsection 1.c, 1.d, 1.e or 1.f, below):
(1) Pledge of Allegiance
(2) Call Meeting to Order
(3) Roll Call
(4) Individual Consideration of Items Identified in the Call of Special Meeting
(5) Adjournment
c. Appeals to Council shall be conducted in accordance with Division 3 of Article II
of Chapter 2 of the City Code.
d. Addition of a Permitted Use applications pursuant to Land Use Code Section
1.3.4(c)(3) and zonings and rezonings of land with an area of six hundred forty
acres or less (“Quasi-judicial Rezonings”), shall be conducted as follows subject to
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such limitations in time and scope as may be imposed at the discretion of the
presiding officer:
(1) Announcement of Item;
(2) Consideration of any procedural issues;
(3) Explanation of the application by City staff;
(4) Presentation by the applicant and/or by the affected property owner (if not
the applicant);
(5) Public testimony regarding the application;
(6) Rebuttal testimony by the applicant/property owner;
(7) Councilmember questions of City staff, the applicant/property owner and
other commenters; and
(8) Motion, discussion and vote by the City Council.
e. Protest hearings required under City Code Section 7-88 (regarding re-districting)
or Section 7-156 (regarding ballot title and/or submission clause) shall be
conducted in the following order, as part of the agenda item for the item under
protest:
(1) Announcement of Item;
(2) Staff Presentation for Agenda Item;
(3) Presentation by each person who timely filed a Protest;
(4) Councilmember questions of City staff and the protesting parties; and
(5) Motion on each Protest, discussion and vote on each Protest the by the City
Council.
After completion of the Protest Hearing, Council will return to the Agenda Item
and receive citizen comments from any persons desiring to speak on the Agenda
Item.
f. Procedures for conduct of other types of special proceedings by the Council shall
be established by the presiding officer and shall comply with any applicable legal
requirements.
g. Items for which a public hearing is required may be considered as part of the
Consent Calendar, and if any item is not pulled from the Consent Calendar for
individual consideration and is adopted as part of the Consent Calendar, it will be
deemed to have been the subject of a public hearing as required by any applicable
Code or other legal requirements.
h. If the presiding officer determines that the number of items pulled from the Consent
Calendar by citizens is substantial and may impair the Council’s ability to complete
the planned agenda, the presiding officer may declare that the following process
will be used to simplify consideration of the Citizen-Pulled Consent Items:
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(1) All citizen-pulled items (to be listed by number) will be considered as a
group under the heading “Consideration of Citizen-Pulled Consent Items.”
(2) At that time, each citizen wishing to speak will be given a single chance to
speak about any and all of the items that have been moved to that part of the
agenda.
(3) After the citizen comments, any Councilmember may specify items from
the list of Citizen-Pulled Consent Items for Council to discuss and vote on
individually. Excluding those specified items, Council will then adopt all
“Citizen-Pulled Consent Items” as a block, by a single motion, second and
vote.
(4) Any Citizen-Pulled Consent Items that a Councilmember has asked be
considered individually will then be considered using the regular process
for considering discussion items.
Section 2. Length of Regular Meetings
a. Regular Council meetings will begin at 6:00 p.m. Proclamations will be presented
prior to the meeting at approximately 5:30 p.m., and will end no later than 6:00
p.m. The presiding officer may, in his or her discretion, request that the City Clerk
schedule the presentation of proclamations to begin as early as 5:00 p.m., so long
as such request is made in time to allow twenty-four hours notice to the public of
the updated start time.
b. Appropriate breaks will be taken during meetings at the presiding officer’s
discretion based on meeting length and agenda.
c. Every regular Council meeting will end no later than 10:30 p.m., except that: (1)
any item of business commenced before 10:30 p.m. may be concluded before the
meeting is adjourned and (2) the Council may, at any time prior to adjournment, by
majority vote, extend a meeting until no later than midnight for the purpose of
considering additional items of business. Any matter that has been commenced and
is still pending at the conclusion of the Council meeting, and all matters scheduled
for consideration at the meeting that have not yet been considered by the Council,
will be continued to the next regular Council meeting and will be placed on the
discussion agenda for such meeting, unless Council determines otherwise.
Section 3. Citizen Comment During Regular and Special Council Meetings.
a. Comment during Citizen Participation. During the “Citizen Participation” segment
of each meeting, citizen comment will be allowed on matters of interest or concern
to citizens except the following:
(1) items the Council will consider at that night’s meeting that include time for
citizen comment (discussion items);
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(2) matters that are the subject of a board or hearing officer decision that will
be appealable to the Council, if an action has been taken to initiate the
application, review and decision-making process.
b. Comment on Agenda Items. Citizen input will be received with regard to:
(1) each item on the discussion agenda;
(2) each item pulled from the consent agenda; and
(3) any item that is addressed by formal Council action under the “Other
Business” segment of the meeting that may directly affect the rights or
obligations of any member of the general public.
The Council may, but is not required to, receive citizen input in connection with
procedural matters and motions. Except as otherwise provided in these rules, citizen
input will be permitted only once per item regardless of the number of motions
made during Council’s consideration of the item.
c. Time Limits for Speaking. The amount of time to be allotted to each speaker will
be set by the presiding officer based upon the number of persons expected to speak,
in order to allow as many as possible to address the Council within a reasonable
time given the scheduled agenda. The presiding officer may require those intending
to speak to indicate their intention by a show of hands or some other means, and to
move to one of the two lines of speakers (or to a seat nearby for those not able to
stand while waiting). Each speaker will generally be limited to three minutes. If
necessary in order to facilitate Council’s understanding of the item, or to allow the
Council to consider and act upon the item in a timely fashion, the presiding officer
may increase or decrease the time that would otherwise be allowed for each
speaker.
d. Manner of Addressing the Council. Comment and testimony are to be directed to
the Council. Unless otherwise directed by the presiding officer, all comments must
be made into the microphone.
e. Yielding the Lectern. Each speaker shall promptly cease his or her comments and
yield the lectern immediately upon the expiration of the time allotted by the
presiding officer.
f. Yielding of Time. No speaker may yield part or all of his or her time to another
speaker, and no speaker will be credited with time requested but not used by
another.
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g. Citizen Presentation Materials and Evidence. The use of City projection equipment
to display presentation materials to Council will be allowed in limited
circumstances that permit City staff to manage the use of the equipment, prepare
materials for display and avoid delay or disruption to the meeting. The following
limits will apply to all presentations by members of the public:
(1) 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.
(2) As an exception to subsection (1), parties-in-interest in agenda items
considered under Section 1.c, 1.d, 1.e or 1.f, above, shall provide all
presentation materials to be displayed or proffered for Council
consideration to the City Clerk (whether in hard copy or for display) in the
manner specified by the City Clerk no later than noon on the day of the
meeting at which the subject item is scheduled for consideration or 4:00
p.m. the business day prior to the meeting if the meeting begins earlier than
6:00 p.m. Any such materials must be in a form or format readily usable on
the City’s display technology. NOTE: Parties in appeals to Council may
present new evidence only in the limited circumstances set forth in Chapter
2 of the City Code.
Section 4. Public Conduct During Regular and Special Council Meetings and
Work Sessions.
a. General Comment, or Expressions of Support or Opposition. Members of the
audience are not entitled to speak except as provided in these Rules of Procedure,
or as expressly requested by the presiding officer or City staff, and shall not engage
in expressions of support or opposition, such as clapping, whistling, cheering, foot
stomping, booing, hissing, speaking out, yelling, or other acts, that disturb, disrupt,
or impede the meeting or any recognized speaker.
b. Signs and Props.
(1) Signs and props no larger than 11" x 17" are permitted in the City Council
Chambers or in the Council Information Center or other Council meeting
room (collectively referred to as the “Meeting Room”), except no such signs
or props shall be displayed during the conduct of a quasi-judicial hearing
during which general public comment is not taken other than by authorized
speakers in connection with their hearing testimony.
(2) Such signs or props must be held directly in front of one's body so as not to
impede the view of others.
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(3) Signs or props may not be waved, held by more than one person at a time,
or used in a manner that, in the judgment of the presiding officer, disrupts
the orderly conduct of business.
(4) Signs or props may not be left unattended anywhere in the Meeting Room
or left unattended on display in the City Hall lobby area.
(5) Signs or props attached to sticks, poles, or other objects are prohibited.
c. Distribution of Literature. Distribution of fliers or other literature is permitted in
the public lobby areas of City Hall only when City Hall is open for a public
event. Distribution of fliers and other literature is permitted on the sidewalks and
grounds around City Hall. Persons wishing to engage in such activities may do so
only in a manner that does not interfere with the movement of persons or obstruct
the passage of pedestrians or vehicles.
d. Video and Audio Recording. Video and audio recording by the press or other
members of the public is permitted in the Meeting Room only if the person making
the recording is using a small unobtrusive recording device and is seated or standing
at a speaker lectern when authorized to speak, or in line awaiting an opportunity to
speak, or is either standing in the back of the Meeting Room behind all seated
persons or standing in any other area pursuant to the direction of the presiding
officer in his or her reasonable discretion or designated for that purpose in advance
by the City.
e. Areas Permitted for Seating and Standing. Except for persons waiting in line to
speak in accordance with the presiding officer’s instructions, no persons shall sit in
the Meeting Room except in chairs or seats provided by the City or in wheelchairs
or other assistive devices, and no persons shall stand in the aisles or other locations
in the Meeting Room except in the back of the Meeting Room, and only in
accordance with other applicable limits for fire and building safety.
Section 5. Procedural Decisions Subject to Modification by Council.
Decisions by the presiding officer regarding procedures and procedural issues, including
but not limited to time limits for public comment, may be overridden by a majority vote of the
Council.
Section 6. Council Questions and Debate.
Council questions and debate regarding an agenda item during a regular or special Council
meeting will occur immediately following citizen input and prior to entertaining any main motion
related to the item. Except when raising a point of order at a regular or special Council meeting,
Councilmembers seeking to ask questions or participate in debate or discussion will do so only
when recognized by the presiding officer. The presiding officer may limit or curtail questions or
debate as he or she deems necessary for the orderly conduct of business.
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Section 7. Basic Rules of Order for Regular and Special Council Meetings.
The following commonly used rules of order will govern the conduct of City Council
business at regular and special Council meetings. Except as specifically noted, all motions require
a second. These rules of order are in concept based upon Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised
and reflect the existing practices of the Council and the requirements of the City Charter and City
Code. For example, while a two-thirds vote is necessary for the passage of some of the motions
listed below under Robert’s Rules of Order, all motions of the Council, except a motion to go into
executive session or a motion to adopt an emergency ordinance, may be adopted upon approval of
a majority vote of the members present at a Council meeting, pursuant to Art. II, Sec. 11 of the
City Charter.
If there is a question of procedure not addressed by these rules, reference may be made to
Robert’s Rules of Order for clarification or direction, however, adherence to Robert’s Rules of
Order is not mandatory, and, in the event of any conflict between these rules of order and Robert’s
Rules of Order, these rules of order shall prevail. In the event of any conflict between these rules
of order or Robert’s Rules of Order and a City Charter or City Code provisions, the City Charter
or City Code provision shall prevail. Any councilmember and the presiding officer may make or
second any motion, except as specifically limited by these rules.
MAIN MOTIONS
Main motions are used to bring business before the Council for consideration and action.
A main motion can be introduced only if no other business is pending.
All main motions require a second and may be adopted by majority vote of those
Councilmembers present and voting, except that: (1) a motion to go into executive session
requires a two-thirds vote of those present and voting and (2) a motion to adopt an
emergency ordinance requires the affirmative vote of at least five (5) Councilmembers for
approval.
A main motion may be made or seconded by any Councilmember, including the presiding
officer.
A main motion is debatable and may be amended.
SUBSIDIARY MOTIONS
These are motions that may be applied to another motion for the purpose of modifying it, delaying
action on it, or disposing of it.
1. Motion to Amend. The point of a motion to amend is to modify the wording - and,
within certain limits, the meaning - of a pending motion before the pending motion itself is acted
upon.
A motion to amend, once seconded, is debatable and may itself be amended once.
A "secondary amendment," which is a change to a pending "primary amendment,"
cannot be amended.
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Once a motion to amend has been seconded and debated, it is decided before the
main motion is decided.
Certain motions to amend are improper.
o For example, an amendment must be “germane” to be an order. To be
germane, an amendment must in some way involve the same question that
is raised by the motion to which it is applied.
o Also, some motions to amend are improper, for example, a motion that
would merely make the adoption of the amended question equivalent to a
rejection of the original motion, or one that would make the question as
amended identical with, or contrary to, one previously decided by the
Council during the same session.
“Friendly” amendments acceptable to the maker and the seconder of the main
motion do not require a second and are permissible at any time before a vote is
taken on motions to amend the main motion.
2. Withdrawal of a Motion. After a motion has been seconded and stated by the
presiding officer it belongs to the Council as a whole and the maker may withdraw his or her
motion unless one or more members of the Council objects, in which case the majority of the
Council must consent to withdrawal of the motion.
3. Motion to Postpone to a Certain Time (or Definitely). This is the motion by which
action on an agenda item or a pending motion can be put off to a definite day, meeting or hour, or
until after a certain event has occurred.
A motion to postpone definitely can be debated only to the extent necessary to
enable the Council to determine whether the main motion should be postponed and,
if so, to what date or time.
Similarly, it is amendable only as to the date or time to which the main motion
should be postponed.
4. Motion to Lay on the Table. A motion to table is intended to enable the Council to
lay the pending question aside temporarily, but only when something else of immediate urgency
has arisen.
Adoption of a motion to lay on the table immediately halts the consideration of the
affected motion, since a motion to table is neither debatable nor amendable.
5. Motion to Postpone Indefinitely. A motion to postpone indefinitely is, in effect, a
motion that the Council decline to take a position on an agenda item or main motion.
Adoption of a motion to postpone indefinitely kills the agenda item or main motion
and avoids a direct vote on the item or motion. It is useful in disposing of an item
or motion that cannot either be adopted or expressly rejected without undesirable
consequences.
A motion to postpone indefinitely is debatable but not amendable.
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6. “Calling the Question”. "Calling the question" may sometimes motivate
unanimous consent to end debate. If it does not, however, then debate does not automatically end.
If any member objects to ending the debate, the presiding officer should ask if there
is a second to the motion and, if so, he must immediately take a vote on whether to
end debate.
A motion to call the question is not debatable or amendable.
INCIDENTAL MOTIONS.
These are motions that usually apply to the method of conducting business rather to the business
itself.
1. Point of Order. If a Councilmember thinks that the rules of order are being violated,
he or she can make a point of order, thereby calling upon the presiding officer for a ruling and an
enforcement of the regular rules.
A “point of order” takes precedence over any pending question out of which it may
arise and does not require a second.
A “point of order” is not amendable.
Technically, a “point of order” is not debatable; however:
o With the presiding officer's consent, the member raising the point of order
may be permitted to explain his or her point.
o In response to a point of order, the presiding officer can either immediately
rule, subject to appeal to the Council, or the presiding officer can refer the
point of order to the judgment of the Council, in which case the point
becomes debatable.
o In making his or her ruling, the presiding officer may consult with the City
Attorney or request the advice of experienced members of the Council.
o No member has the right to express an opinion unless requested to do so by
the presiding officer.
When the presiding officer has made a ruling, any two Councilmembers can appeal
the ruling (one making the appeal and the other seconding it).
o When an appeal is taken, the matter is decided by majority vote of the
Council.
o A tie vote sustains the decision of the presiding officer.
If a point of order is to be raised, it must be raised promptly at the time the perceived
violation of the rules occurs.
2. Point of Information. Robert’s Rules of Order provides for a “point of information”
or a “request for information” that is appropriate in the formal setting of a large legislative body.
Because Council consideration of an item is generally an opportunity to request information and
ask questions, the formal “point of information” procedure provided in Robert’s Rules is not
needed or appropriate for City Council meetings.
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3. Motion to Divide a Question. If a motion relating to a single subject contains
several parts, each of which is capable of standing as a complete proposition by itself, the parts of
the motion can be separated for consideration and voted on as if they were distinct questions by
the adoption of a motion for division of the question.
A motion to divide a question, if seconded, takes precedence over the main motion
and is not debatable.
The motion to divide must clearly state the manner in which the question is to be
divided, and while the motion to divide is pending, another member can propose a
different division by moving an amendment to the motion to divide, in which case
the amended form of the motion, if seconded, would be decided first.
Often, little formality is involved in dividing a question, and it is arranged by
unanimous consent.
4. Motion to Suspend the Rules. When the Council wishes to do something that it
cannot do without violating one or more of its regular rules, it can adopt a motion to suspend the
rules that interfere with the proposed action.
A motion to suspend the rules can be made at any time that no question is pending
and can be applied to any rule except those that are fundamental principles of the
City Charter, City Code or other applicable laws.
This motion is neither debatable nor amendable.
The presiding officer may suspend the rules by stating his or her desire to do so, unless a
Councilmember states an objection. In the event of an objection, a motion, second and approval
by a majority vote, as described above, is required.
RESTORATIVE MOTIONS
These are motions that bring a question again before the Council for its consideration.
1. Motion to Take from the Table. The object of this motion is to take from the table
and make pending again before the Council a motion or series of adhering motions that previously
had been laid on the table.
A motion to take an item from the table is neither debatable nor amendable.
When a question is taken from the table, it is before the Council with everything
adhering to it, exactly as it was when laid on the table.
2. Motion to Reconsider. This motion enables a majority of the Council to bring back
for further consideration a motion that has already been voted on.
A motion to reconsider is in order only if made on the same date that the vote to be
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reconsidered was taken, and can be made only by a member who voted with the
prevailing side of the vote to be reconsidered.
The purpose of reconsidering a vote is to permit the correction of hasty, ill-advised,
or erroneous action, or to take into account added information or a changed
situation that has developed since the taking of a vote.
When a member who cannot make a motion for reconsideration believes that there
are valid reasons for one, he or she can try, if there is time or opportunity, to
persuade someone who voted with the prevailing side to make such a motion.
A motion to reconsider is debatable whenever the motion proposed to be
reconsidered was debatable. And, when debatable, opens to debate the merits of
the question to be reconsidered.
A motion to reconsider is not amendable.
The effect of the adoption of a motion to reconsider is that the question on which
the vote was reconsidered is immediately placed before the Council in the exact
position it occupied the moment before it was voted on originally.
3. Motion to Rescind or Amend Something Previously Adopted. By means of the
motions to rescind or to amend something previously adopted, the Council can change an action
previously taken or ordered.
A motion to rescind or amend something previously adopted is debatable and
amendable.
In contrast to a motion to reconsider, there is no time limit on making a motion to
rescind or a motion to amend something previously adopted (provided that no
action has been taken by anyone in the interim that cannot be undone), and these
motions can be moved by any member of the Council, regardless of how he or she
voted on the original question.
The effect of passage of this motion is not to place the matter back before the
assembly as it was just prior to a vote being taken.
o Instead, it either entirely nullifies the previous action or modifies it,
depending upon which motion is used.
o For that reason, adoption of a motion to rescind or amend something
previously adopted should be carefully considered if third parties may have
relied to their detriment on the previous action.
In order to modify an adopted resolution or ordinance, Council must adopt a new
resolution or ordinance making the desired modification, in compliance with all
formalities applicable to adoption of a resolution or ordinance (as applicable).
PRIVILEGED MOTIONS
These motions are of such urgency or importance that they are entitled to immediate consideration,
even when another motion is pending. This is because these motions do not relate to the pending
business but have to do with special matters of immediate and overriding importance that should
be allowed to interrupt the consideration of anything else, without debate.
1. Motion to Adjourn. Generally, the presiding officer adjourns the meeting at his or
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her discretion at the completion of the agenda. However, any Councilmember may move to
adjourn the meeting at any time.
A motion to adjourn requires a second.
A motion to adjourn is always a privileged motion except when the motion is
conditioned in some way, as in the case of a motion to adjourn at, or to, a future
time.
o Such a conditional motion is not privileged and is treated just as any other
main motion.
o A conditional motion to adjourn at or to a future time is always out of order
while business is pending.
An unconditional, privileged motion to adjourn takes precedence over most other
motions.
The privileged motion to adjourn is neither debatable nor amendable, while a
conditioned motion to adjourn is debatable and may be amended.
2. Motion to Recess. A motion to recess is essentially a motion to take a break during
the course of a Council meeting.
A motion to recess must be seconded.
o A motion to recess that is made when no question is pending is a main
motion and should be treated as any other main motion.
o A motion to recess is said to be privileged if it is made when another
question is pending, in which case it takes precedence over all subsidiary
and incidental motions and most other privileged motions. It is not
debatable and is amendable only as to the length of the recess.
After a recess, the meeting resumes when the presiding officer has called the
meeting back to order.
2.1
Packet Pg. 50 Attachment: 2019 Council Procedures (10576 : Council Meeting Rules)
COUNCIL MEETINGS MEETING RULES/PUBLIC COMMENT
ITEM NOTES ITEM NOTES
Remote Participation as a
Body
Council is currently allowed
to meet in-person,
remotely, or as a hybrid only
during COVID for COVID
reasons. Code and Rules
changes required for non-
COVID times or reasons.
Sign-up requirement for
public comment
Would require electronic
sign-up by a pre-
determined time prior to
Council meeting. Sign-up
would open once the
agenda has posted.
Remote Participation as
Individuals
Individual Councilmembers
are currently allowed to opt
to participate remotely
during COVID and for COVID
reasons. Code and Rules
changes needed to allow
individual Councilmembers
to participate remotely in all
types of meetings, for any
reason. Would include
Special meetings and
Executive Sessions.
*Exceptions to consider
include quasi-judicial
hearings.
Expand public comment to
include anything on the
agenda and general
comments
Priority could be given to
speakers wishing to
comment on agenda
items.
Remote as Sub-
committees
Council sub-committees are
currently allowed to meet
in-person or remotely only
during COVID for COVID
reasons. Code and Rules
changes required for non
COVID times or reasons.
Put discussion item
comments under general
public comment time
Could make this a
requirement and
eliminate public comment
during discussion items.
Would need to consider
adequacy of opportunity
to comment and
exceptions for quasi-
judicial or other formal
public hearings.
Set a time limit on total
public comment
Would need to consider
combined impact with
other limits, above.
Only allow Councilmembers
to pull Consent Items
Would need to consider
exceptions for quasi-
judicial and other formal
public hearings and
develop standard to guide
decisions to pull items.
MECHANISM MECHANISM
Majority achieved through Council adopted Resolution of
Meeting Rules. Recommend minor Code change through
Ordinance to define “present” and address other
integration into current provisions.
Majority achieved through Council adopted Resolution of
Meeting Rules with some Code change through
Ordinance required to update current Code language.
TIMEFRAME TIMEFRAME
Could bring forward by mid-late September dependent
on public engagement.
Could bring forward by mid-late September dependent
on public engagement.
ATTACHMENT 2 2.2
Packet Pg. 51 Attachment: Key Changes and Options to Council Meeting Rules (10576 : Council Meeting Rules)
City Clerk
300 LaPorte Avenue
PO Box 580
Fort Collins, CO 80522
970.221.6515
970.221.6295 - fax
fcgov.com
MEMORANDUM
DATE: June 3, 2021
TO: Mayor Arndt and City Councilmembers
THRU: Darin Atteberry, City Manager
Kyle Stannert, Deputy City Manager
FROM: Delynn Coldiron, City Clerk
RE: Public Comment Procedure Comparison
Over the course of the pandemic, the opportunities to participate in public meetings has been
expanded with online involvement. This has enhanced public participation and, going forward,
there have been questions on how to best leverage this opportunity.
At a recent Leadership Planning Team meeting, staff was requested to look at best practices for
public participation of peer cities. The purpose of this memo is to provide Council with the
information obtained researching each municipality s public comment procedures.
We surveyed 36 cities (11 from Colorado). In summary we found:
Approximately 18 require public participation sign-up.
Sign-up via an online form was most common (usually a phone or email option was
provided as well).
Some have a limit on the number of speakers allowed.
Some prioritize speakers who have not commented within a certain number of meetings.
Most have a time limit on public participation ranging from 30-60 minutes total.
A few have additional (or all) public participation at the end of the meeting.
Additionally, we found that 26 of the cities are still meeting remotely, 8 are using a hybrid
approach to meetings and 1 is meeting in-person.
A spreadsheet containing more in-depth information related to this is attached.
ATTACHMENT 3 2.3
Packet Pg. 52 Attachment: Public Comment Comparison (10576 : Council Meeting Rules)
CityPublic Participation Sign Up Ahead of Meeting?Technology used for Signups?Limit to Number of Speakers During Public Participation?Limit to Time of Speakers?Remote participation or something different?Is public comment on discussion items the same?Can public pull consent items?NotesBoulderYesOnline form with sign up by certain time prior - names drawn at random if more than 20 sign up202 min each/45 minutes totalAll remoteOnline form for each itemGreeleyNoSubmit comments, questions via email any time leading up to and during meeting/comment during virtual meetingsNoComments submitted via email are read by City ClerkAll remoteOnly Council or staffDenverYesOnline form or sign up by phone with sign up by certain time prior No30 minutes total/3 minutes per speakerAll remoteSign up for public hearings online - 3 minutesThorntonYesOnline formNo60 minutes total/3 minutes per speakerAll remoteSign up for public hearings online - 3 minutesLittletonNoNo3 minutes per speakerSame - also have an agenda item comment form onlineArvadaYes if doing so remotelyOnline form, phone, or emailNo3 minutes per speaker at beginning of meeting and 5 minutes per speaker at endHybridSame YesLongmontNoCan call in only during public comment - no Zoom participation allowedNo3 minutes per speakerAll remoteCan call in only during public comment - no Zoom participation allowedLovelandNoNo3 minutes per speaker unless speaker for 5 or more people, then 10 minutesAll remoteSameOnly Council unless it is quasi-judicial, then any member of the public can pullColorado SpringsNoNo60 minutes total/3 minutes per speakerAll remoteSameYes2.3
Packet Pg. 53 Attachment: Public Comment Comparison (10576 : Council Meeting Rules)
CityPublic Participation Sign Up Ahead of Meeting?Technology used for Signups?Limit to Number of Speakers During Public Participation?Limit to Time of Speakers?Remote participation or something different?Is public comment on discussion items the same?Can public pull consent items?NotesLakewoodNo but can comment online ahead of meeting in specific place for each agenda item, including public commentMust sign in on roster to speak during regular in-person meetingsNo3 minutes per speaker unless speaker for 3 or more people, then 10 minutesAll remoteSameWestminsterYes if wanting to speak, can also leave voice messages which are played at meetingEmail by noon day of meeting - email response includes link to remote meetingNo5 minutes per speakerAll remoteSameProvo, UTNoNo2 minutes per speakerAll remoteSamePublic can suggest removal, but Council must do soGainesville, FLYes if wanting to speak during regular, in-person meetings, can also leave voice messages which are played at meetingOnline form or in person with ClerkNo30 minutes total/3 minutes per speakerHybridSameOnly Commission membersSee "Welcome Neighbor" - Neighbor's Guide to City MeetingsEugene, ORYes during regular in-person meetings, no during virtual meetings (just call in, raise hand)Form available online or at meeting - submit to staff at meetingNo3 minutes per speakerAll remoteSameTacoma, WAYes during regular in-person meetings, no during virtual meetings (just call in, raise hand)Sign in at meeting, names are called in orderNo5 minutes per speakerAll remoteTypically public comment is for all items on agenda and happens once at beginningOnly Council membersOnce permonth, community forum time (90 sec per speaker) is offered for citizens to talk about any topic2.3
Packet Pg. 54 Attachment: Public Comment Comparison (10576 : Council Meeting Rules)
CityPublic Participation Sign Up Ahead of Meeting?Technology used for Signups?Limit to Number of Speakers During Public Participation?Limit to Time of Speakers?Remote participation or something different?Is public comment on discussion items the same?Can public pull consent items?NotesGarland, TXNoNo3 minutes per speakerAll remoteMust fill out a speaker card during regular in-person meetingsYesBoise, IDEncouraged for remote participation- those not signed up are allowed to speak after Online linkNo3 minutes per speakerHybridSameYesOlathe, KSYesIn-person, telephone, or email; list posted at least 30 minutes prior to meetingNo30 minutes total/3 minutes per speakerHybridSame; separate list for each public hearing item; 5 minutes per person per itemCouncil member onlyGeneral public comment near end of meetingSanta Rosa, CANo but can comment online ahead of meeting in specific place for each agenda item, including public comment12 speakers selected randomly by Mayor for first public comment section and rest speak at second; all voice messages played during one or the other3 minutes per speakerAll remoteNo limit on number of speakers, 3 minutes per speakerCedar Rapids, IAYesOnline - all must be registered at least two hours before start of meeting then will be sent link info; must sign up on sheet during in-person meetings before meeting start then called in orderNo5 minutes per speakerAll remoteSameCouncil member onlyDenton, TXYesCan submit comments online specific to items or call with comments (can request a call back during the specific agenda item)No4 minutes per speakerAll remoteSamePublic Reports: 7 speakers allowed to pre-register via email or phone (4 minutes each)Santa Barbara, CANoNo30 minutes total/3 minutes per speakerAll remoteSameYes2.3
Packet Pg. 55 Attachment: Public Comment Comparison (10576 : Council Meeting Rules)
CityPublic Participation Sign Up Ahead of Meeting?Technology used for Signups?Limit to Number of Speakers During Public Participation?Limit to Time of Speakers?Remote participation or something different?Is public comment on discussion items the same?Can public pull consent items?NotesAnaheim, CANoNo3 minutes per speakerHybridSameCouncil member onlyBellevue, WAYesSign up on web page (link provided in agenda online)No (see notes)30 minutes total/3 minutes per speakerAll remoteDoes not appear public can comment beyond the 'oral communications' part of agendaThe total time for oral communications is 30 minutes. If the number of speakers signed up to speak will exceed the 30 minute period, the Mayor is authorized to give preference to (1) persons speaking to items on the meeting agenda or anticipated to come on the agenda within one month and/or (2) to persons who have not spoken to Council in the last quarter. Speakers will be allowed up to three minutes Athens, GAYesOnline form 20 for agenda items/10 for items not on the agenda3 minutes per speaker - 60 minutes for agenda items (beginning of meeting)/30 minutes for non-agenda items (end of meeting)All remoteNo need to register if input is on a zoning public hearing (can be in-person)No2.3
Packet Pg. 56 Attachment: Public Comment Comparison (10576 : Council Meeting Rules)
CityPublic Participation Sign Up Ahead of Meeting?Technology used for Signups?Limit to Number of Speakers During Public Participation?Limit to Time of Speakers?Remote participation or something different?Is public comment on discussion items the same?Can public pull consent items?NotesIrving, TXYesMust complete speaker's card by 7 PM day of meetingNo30 minutes total/3 minutes per speaker - anyone not heard at beginning go at end and anyone who has spoken within the last 90 days goes lastHybrid5 minutes per speaker for agenda items (must also fill out speaker's card)Council member onlyNorman, OKNot for general commentsNo3 minutes per speaker - at end of agendaAll remoteMust sign up online or by phone for each specific itemLincoln, NENoNo5 minutes per speaker during general comment (cannot be on current or future agenda topics)HybridNo - citizens can speak on public hearing items specifically and on consent items as a whole at beginning of meetingsGeneral public comment only allowed 2 of 4 meetings per month at end of meetingRichardson, TXYesMust submit a public comment card prior to the meeting or when public comment is opened for a public hearingNo5 minutes per speakerIn personSameYesCan also submit a public comment form online Coral Springs, FLYesOnline formNo3 minutes per speakerHybridSameAnn Arbor, MIYesCall beginning at 8 AM day off10 speakers with priority given to those who have not spoken at last 2 meetings and those who want to discuss an agenda item3 minutes per speakerAll remoteCan call in for public hearing itemsAlso general comment time at end of meeting with no advance sign up or limit on number of speakers2.3
Packet Pg. 57 Attachment: Public Comment Comparison (10576 : Council Meeting Rules)
CityPublic Participation Sign Up Ahead of Meeting?Technology used for Signups?Limit to Number of Speakers During Public Participation?Limit to Time of Speakers?Remote participation or something different?Is public comment on discussion items the same?Can public pull consent items?NotesCharlotteville, VABothOnline form, email, or call16 speakers (8 selected randomly from a list of people signed up in advance and 8 who signed in on first-come, first-served basis) for first public comment section - list of those selected is posted on web page day of meeting3 minutes per speakerAll remoteSign up sheets for public hearingsNo - 2 Council members must want to pull itemAlso general comment time at end of meeting with no advance sign up or limit on number of speakersAsheville, NCYesOnline form or callNo - list of speakers in order posted on webpage day of meeting3 minutes per speaker/60 minutes totalAll remoteOne hour time limit for speakers on public hearingsYesPalo Alto, CAYesSpeaker request cardNo3 minutes per speaker/30 minutes totalAll remoteSameNo - 3 Council members must want to pullPortland, MENoNo60 minutes total/3 minutes per speakerAll remoteSamePublic comment can be reopend at end of meeting by a voteBurbank, CANoCall in during meetingNo3 minutes per speakerAll remoteSame2.3
Packet Pg. 58 Attachment: Public Comment Comparison (10576 : Council Meeting Rules)
City Council: Meeting Norms and Rules
August 31, 2021
ATTACHMENT 4 2.4
Packet Pg. 59 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10576 : Council Meeting Rules)
2Council Questions
1.What questions do Councilmembers have regarding any of the
following and what feedback do Councilmembers have about
changes to Council’s meeting procedures?
2.4
Packet Pg. 60 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10576 : Council Meeting Rules)
3Background
•COVID restrictions and related Emergency Orders operationalized
numerous remote meeting and participation mechanisms.
•Options no longer as relevant to COVID.
•Changes allow continued remote options for:
•Accessibility
•Efficiency
•Health & Safety
•Preference
2.4
Packet Pg. 61 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10576 : Council Meeting Rules)
Council Participation
COVID and Emergency Orders allowed:
•Remote participation as a Council body
•Remote participation as a Councilmember
•Remote meetings of Council Sub-committees
4
Options presented would allow Council the option to utilize any
of the above outside of an emergency order.
2.4
Packet Pg. 62 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10576 : Council Meeting Rules)
Considerations
Change could include Special Meetings and Executive Sessions:
•Improved efficiency
•Councilmember participation when schedule constrained
•Exceptions for quasi-judicial hearings
5
2.4
Packet Pg. 63 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10576 : Council Meeting Rules)
6Meeting Rule Adjustments
Public Participation
•Sign-up requirement for public comment
•Expand public comment to include anything on the agenda and general
comments
•Put discussion item comments under general public comment time
•Ti me allocation for public comment
•Only allow Councilmembers to pull Consent Items
2.4
Packet Pg. 64 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10576 : Council Meeting Rules)
7Considerations
•Eliminate resident confusion on when
to speak to items
•Allow residents to speak to any item
early in the meeting
•Ease of calling speakers names
•Can prioritize (if needed) comments
related to agenda items
•Consent questions heard and
answered early in meeting
•Change of process, clear standards and
expectations needed
•Exceptions needed for quasi-judicial/formal
hearings
•If overall time is limited comments may not
be heard
2.4
Packet Pg. 65 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10576 : Council Meeting Rules)
8Council Questions
1.What questions do Councilmembers have regarding any
of the following and what feedback do Councilmembers
have about changes to Council’s meeting procedures?
2.4
Packet Pg. 66 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10576 : Council Meeting Rules)
DATE:
STAFF:
August 31, 2021
Rebecca Everette, Development Review Manager
Theresa Connor, Interim Utilities Executive Director
WORK SESSION ITEM
City Council
SUBJECT FOR DISCUSSION
Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this item is to provide an overview of planning considerations, policy guidance, and future projects
in northeast Fort Collins (north of Vine Drive, east of Lemay Avenue and generally encompassed in the Mountain
Vista Subarea). As the largest area of mostly vacant, agricultural land in the Growth Management Area,
significant development is anticipated over the coming decades. Council may be involved in various decisions
related to planning and development in this area of the community, including plan amendments, development
plans, annexation and zoning decisions, utility service agreements, metropolitan districts, and funding for capital
projects. New and proposed development in the area has necessitated a holistic analysis of utility provision, the
transportation network and community amenities in northeast Fort Collins, which pose both opportunities and
constraints for the City. Staff will share background information and context for Council to set the stage for future
action items.
GENERAL DIRECTION SOUGHT AND SPECIFIC QUESTIONS TO BE ANSWERED
1. What questions or guidance does Council have related to planning and projects in northeast Fo rt Collins?
2. Would Council like additional information related to specific projects, issues or opportunities in this area?
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION
1. Long-Range Planning And Vision
There are several plans and policies that describe the long -term vision for land use, development,
infrastructure improvements, and community services in northeast Fort Collins. As that area
continues to grow and evolve, these plans provide guidance and predictability for future
development projects and public/private investment.
Mountain Vista Subarea Plan
The Mountain Vista Subarea Plan was adopted in 2009 and provides land use and policy
guidance for the northeast quadrant of the city. The plan describes the vision for this subarea
as:
“…an area of Fort Collins known for its impressive views of the mountains and
recognized for its successful and innovative community design. This subarea will be
distinct and attractive with a comfortable, town-like atmosphere that residents and
businesses identify with and take pride in. Ne ighborhoods, parks, schools, shopping
district and business centers within this subarea will be connected and served by a
variety of travel choices including vehicle, transit, bicycle, and pedestrian modes…”
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Other key elements of the subarea plan’s vision and policies include:
• Mixed-use neighborhoods composed of a variety of housing types and prices ranges;
• Commercial centers and amenities near neighborhoods;
• A new community commercial district with a small town-like pattern of streets and blocks
and an emphasis on pedestrian use;
• A network of streets and trails that are attractive, safe and pedestrian -oriented;
• A range of job opportunities for the community and region on industrial and employment
lands
• Access, mobility and connectivity for all travel modes, with strategically located transit hubs;
• Preservation and enhancement of existing natural features, historic resources, and scenic
views;
• Schools, parks and recreation opportunities linked by a greenway network; and
• Well designed and attractive landscaping, signage and lighting with high -quality and
innovative building design.
In 2016, Council revisited the vision and framework plan for the Mountain Vista subarea. In
work session discussions, Council reinforced their support for a land use framework that
integrates open lands (including agricultural production, parks, natural habitat, and stormwater
areas) with new residential neighborhoods, public facilities and employment areas. Council
priorities for the area included “agri-urban” development, affordable housing, and
implementation of Nature in the City goals.
Transportation Planning
In 2019, Council adopted an updated Transportation Master Plan and Transit Master Plan in
conjunction with City Plan. These plans establish a vision for mobility in Fort Collins, achieved
through a safe and reliable multimodal transportation network for all residents, visitors and
employees.
The Master Street Plan is an element of the Transportation Master Plan and establishes the
overall street network for the community, including the layout and classification of roads,
intersections, and other infrastructure. The Master Street Plan was also recently updated, in
conjunction with both the City Plan Update and approval of the Montava PUD.
The recent Master Street Plan amendments included a combination of reclassifications and
modifications to existing and future roadways that will provide connectivity and access to the
Mountain Vista subarea. The most significant changes were the realignment of Timber line and
Mountain Vista and the addition of Turnberry and Giddings connections (south of Mountain
Vista). The realignment of Timberline and Mountain Vista keep the existing road alignments
and remove a future curve of Timberline through private property. The Turnberry and Giddings
connections provide an additional four lanes of north/south capacity feeding to Suniga,
providing a parallel connection to Country Club Road. The remainder of changes were minor
realignments or additions that primarily impact the Montava development and were tied to the
approval of the Montava PUD application.
The Transit Master Plan defines a vision for expanded coverage of the transit network,
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improved connections to transit, bus rapid transit along key corridors, and modernized
operations. In the Mountain Vista Subarea, the Transit Master Plan identifies a future transit
route with frequent peak service (15 min peak/30 min off-peak) along Suniga Road, Timberline
Road, and Giddings Road. A transit center/mobility hub is planned n ear the intersection of
Mountain Vista Road and Giddings Road. A mobility hub seeks to integrate transit with other
modes of transportation and could include bus shelters, bike parking, scooter/bike share, car
share, electric vehicle charging, and drop-off/pickup for ride-hailing services (e.g., Uber/Lyft).
Parks, Recreation and Trails
Based on the recently adopted 2021 Parks and Recreation Plan, there are approximately
three new neighborhood parks and one new community park planned for northeast Fort
Collins. Multiple regional trail connections are planned as development occurs over time. A
new recreation center is also planned for northeast Fort Collins as the population continues to
grow.
Schools and Libraries
Poudre School District (PSD) has long had plans for developing additional schools to serve
northeast Fort Collins, including elementary, middle, and high school sites. Schools will be
sited and built as needed and as funding allows in response to population growth and
development activity. PSD continues to partner with developers in northeast Fort Collins to
secure potential school sites and ensure that the District’s long -term needs can be met. The
Montava PUD identifies sites for future elementary, middle, and high schools within the
master plan. PSD has not indicated a timeline for the development of new schools in this
area.
The 2019 Poudre River Public Library District Master Plan identifies the need for an additional
library facility that is “accessible for the populations of and beyond nort h Fort Collins.” The
new library would offer “diverse spaces for people and programming” and would serve as a
key community amenity for residents in northeast Fort Collins.
2. Active Projects And Investment
Development Projects
Multiple development projects are planned, under review or have been approved in recent
years in northeast Fort Collins. Council’s role in relation to development projects varies based
on the nature of the project. For projects that involve plan amendments, annexation, zoning or
rezoning, metro districts, or Planned Unit Developments larger than 640 acres, Council is the
decision-maker. For development projects that do not involve these actions, the Planning and
Zoning Commission or an administrative hearing officer are the decision-makers, though
Council may be involved in appeal proceedings as needed. Development projects are
required to comply with all applicable Land Use Code requirements and must conform to the
policy guidance in City Plan, the Master Street Plan, and other ad opted policies and plans.
Montava Planned Unit Development
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Montava is a multi-phase, long-term development proposal located in the northeast portion of
Fort Collins. Council approved the Planned Unit Development (PUD) Master Plan in February
2020. The development is estimated to take about 20-25 years to build-out, will include about
4,000 housing units, a commercial town center, employment and industrial uses, a community
park, schools, natural area, and other community amenities across approximately 1,000 acres.
At full build-out, the master plan is estimated to accommodate about 11,000 residents.
Council has also approved a Metro District Service Plan and Public Benefits Agreement for
Montava. The public benefit commitments include:
• Affordable Housing: The Montava Metro Districts are obligated to deliver 300 affordable
and 300 attainable housing units, with a 20-year deed restriction on the affordable units.
• Climate Action: All single-family units will be constructed to meet or exceed the
Department of Energy Zero Energy ready standard.
• Agri-urban Component: Development of a working 47-acre farm within a 5-year period to
become operational. If the farm does not come to fruition in this period, the City has an
option to purchase the land.
• Non-potable Irrigation System: The irrigation needs of the development and its residents
will be provided by the existing groundwater wells that have historically irrigated the
property, rather than treated potable water.
Staff expect the first phases of the Montava development to be submitted for City review in late
2021 or early 2022.
Transportation Projects
Major transportation projects planned in northeast Fort Collins include:
• The Vine Drive and Lemay Avenue overpass - in construction and scheduled for 2021
completion;
• The completion of various portions of Suniga Road - with development activities;
• A new signal at Timberline Road and Vine Drive - scheduled for 2022 completion;
• A new signal at SH1 and Douglas Road - scheduled for 2021 completion;
• The completion of various portions of Turnberry - with development activities;
• Timberline/Mtn Vista widening and intersection improvements - with development activities.
Other improvements, including roadway widening consistent with the Master Street Plan and
intersection projects, will be identified through individual development applications. The City
will work closely with the County to accommodate the sensitive nature of Country Club Road,
which is a collector street in unincorporated Larim er County.
City staff has a conceptual design for the extension of Turnberry Road that would eventually
connect with the East-West Suniga Road connection, and this includes improvements at the
Turnberry and Mountain Vista intersection. Progression to a final design of this section will be
dependent upon development activity in the area and will require extensive coordination with
the County and adjacent property owners. Additionally, operational and traffic increases, as
development occurs, will further drive needs for infrastructure investment, such as
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Transportation Capital Expansion Fee (TCEF) funding, for traffic system improvements.
Parks, Recreation and Trail Projects
The Park Planning and Development Department has been coordinating with mu ltiple
developers to reserve parkland and secure easements for future paved recreational trails. As
part of the Montava PUD approval, a site for future Northeast Community Park has been
identified. The City recently completed construction of two new neighb orhood parks in the
area, including Crescent Park in the Maple Hill neighborhood and Sugar Beet Park, located
near Vine Drive and 9th Street. Construction of Traverse Park, located in the Trail Head
neighborhood, is currently underway and planned to be ope n in late 2021.
3. Utility Services
Potable Water and Wastewater Utilities
The Mountain Vista Subarea is predominately within the East Larimer County Water District
(ELCO), which provides potable water treatment and delivery services for existing and f uture
customers. The only exception is that Fort Collins Utilities serves the Anheuser Busch facility
near Richards Lake Road and I-25. ELCO requires new development to provide certain water
rights to meet at least 70% the water demands of the new developm ent and will allow up to
30% to be satisfied by paying cash-in-lieu of dedication of water rights.
City Plan observed that “much of the remaining undeveloped land in the GMA is not served by
City sewer and water utilities, which could impact the availability, timing and pricing of future
development in these areas.” There are eight water and sewer districts that serve city
residents within the GMA. These districts were mostly created in the 1960s as compared to
the City’s system that is well over 130 years old. The districts are serving small populations
that are more spread out, which will drive their capital costs higher as compared to the City’s
compact, populated utility service area. Some developers have expressed concern that costs
related to water and wastewater services are increasing, and they are having trouble acquiring
water rights as the market is increasingly competitive. The rising cost of development can
affect affordability of housing as well as the ability for the development to provid e other
infrastructure and amenities.
These conditions are spurring developers to explore alternative approaches to providing water
supplies, including groundwater. While groundwater is common in other areas of the state and
country, groundwater is not currently within any GMA water provider’s existing water portfolios.
Note that land use authorities in Colorado are required to evaluate the adequacy of the water
supplies for a proposed development and staff are ready to start working on an update to this
process to make it more robust to a variety of solutions developers may pose.
Council has established a priority to advance regional collaboration, indicating that water is
one area of focus for this work. Addressing the competition for water resources in Northern
Colorado will take dedicated effort. Starting locally to address this challenge within the City’s
GMA is a good place to begin the conversation and will also need to be part of a larger
conversation.
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The Mountain Vista Subarea is predominately within the Boxelder Sanitation District (BSD)
service area for wastewater conveyance, treatment and disposal. Like water service, Fort
Collins Utilities serves the Anheuser Busch facility, even though it is within BSD’s service area.
BSD has a treatment plant across the Poudre River from the Fort Collins Drake Water
Reclamation Facility that serves a large geographic area, including NE Fort Collins, Larimer
County, and Timnath. BSD’s Plant Investment Fee for single-family homes is much higher
than Fort Collins Utilities, which reflects the need to provide service in a large geographic area.
BSD has developed a multi-family rate and a program for affordable housing to help address
these concerns.
Stormwater Utility
The Mountain Vista Subarea is in the Cooper Slough Drainage Basin, which drains to Boxelder
Creek watershed and eventually the Poudre River. Fort Collins Utilities Stormwater Division
has completed a Master Stormwater Plan, including a Selected Plan for improvements in the
Cooper Slough Basin to address a lack of adequate stormwater infrastructure within the basin
to meet the level of service as established by policy. Working with developers within the
Cooper Slough Basin is an opportunity to partner to meet the requirements of the dev eloper
and make improvements identified to serve existing residents. The Stormwater Department
generally works through Development Agreements to partner on these projects.
Utility Infrastructure to Serve Development
The Mountain Vista Subarea Plan calls for a compact, mixed-use land use pattern in Northeast
Fort Collins, which supports healthy and connected neighborhoods. Providing utility services in
neighborhoods with narrower streets, buildings that front on greenways, and denser
development can require creative problem solving and flexibility in adopted standards. As new
development is proposed in this area of the community, the City will continue to partner with
various utility providers to balance the vision for walkable, vibrant neighborhoods with the need
for safe and reliable utility services.
4. Future Council Involvement
Council may be directly involved in several future projects and planning efforts. The following
projects are on the horizon and may require Council input or decisions:
• Appropriation of funding for future capital projects (e.g., Suniga Road connections,
Turnberry Road extension, parks and trails);
• Future amendments to the Mountain Vista Subarea Plan, Master Street Plan or other long -
range plans in conjunction with development proposals, as needed;
• Future amendments to the Montava PUD Master Plan or Metro District Service Plan, as
needed;
• Adoption of a new Water Adequacy Determination process for “non -standard” utility service
plans;
• Requests to collaborate with developers, other water providers, and/or communities to
support local and regional water needs. For example, purchase or lease of water for
3
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August 31, 2021 Page 7
augmentation, water service agreements, or treatment capacity sharing.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Powerpoint Presentation (PDF)
3
Packet Pg. 73
Presented by:
Northeast Fort Collins
Planning Discussion
08-31-21
Rebecca Everette
Development Review Manager
Theresa Connor
Interim Utilities Executive Director
ATTACHMENT 1 3.1
Packet Pg. 74 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
2Purpose of this Item
•Provide context and background on long-range planning, infrastructure projects, and
development in northeast Fort Collins
•Outline opportunities and constraints related to planning, transportation, parks and recreation,
and utility services
•Prepare Council for future discussions related to capital projects, plan amendments, and
development projects
1.What questions or guidance does Council have related to planning and projects
in northeast Fort Collins?
2.Would Council like additional information related to specific projects,issues or
opportunities in this area?
3.1
Packet Pg. 75 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
Area of Consideration
•North of Vine Drive, East of
Lemay Av enue
•Mountain Vista Subarea
•Council District 1
•Majority of vacant land in
Growth Management Area
•Separate water and wastewater
districts
3
VINELEMAY 3.1
Packet Pg. 76 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
4CityCouncil’s Role
•Council may be involved in various decisions
that affect northeast Fort Collins, including:
•Plan amendments
•New codes, policies and processes
•Annexation, zoning and rezoning
•Capital project funding
•Metro district requests
•Utility service agreements
•Major amendments to Montava PUD
•Development projects on appeal
POLICY &
PLANS
CAPITAL
PROJECTS
DEVELOPMENT
PROJECTS
3.1
Packet Pg. 77 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
Long-Range Planning
& Vision
3.1
Packet Pg. 78 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
6Historyof Planning in Northeast Fort Collins
1999
Mountain Vista
Framework Plan
Adopted
2008-2009
Mountain Vista
Plan Update
Update
2015
Rural Scenario
Assessment
2019
Updates to:
•Master Street Plan
•City Plan
•Tr ansportation
Master Plan
•Tr ansit Master Plan
2020
Montava PUD
Approved
2021
Parks &
Recreation
Master Plan
Update
3.1
Packet Pg. 79 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
7Mountain Vista Subarea Plan Vision
Vision for the Mountain Vista Area:
•Mixed-use neighborhoods with a variety of
housing types and prices ranges
•Preservation of existing natural features,
historic resources, and scenic views
•Schools, parks and recreation
opportunities linked by a greenway
network
•Commercial centers and amenities in
close proximity to neighborhoods
•Access, mobility and connectivity for all
travel modes, with strategically located
transit hubs
•Attractive and innovative architecture and
urban design
3.1
Packet Pg. 80 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
8Direction from Council (2015)
•Specific topics to address with future
development:
•Nature in the City
•Urban Agriculture
•Housing Affordability
•Investigate partnership opportunities for
infrastructure improvements
•Promote innovative design
•Enhance livability and integrate
agricultural and natural systems
3.1
Packet Pg. 81 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
9Master Street Plan
3.1
Packet Pg. 82 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
10Transit Master Plan
3.1
Packet Pg. 83 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
11Public Space Network
3.1
Packet Pg. 84 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
12Proposed Parks and Trails
3.1
Packet Pg. 85 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
13Montava Planned Unit Development (PUD)
•999-acre master plan
•Complete, connected
community
•Neighborhoods
•Parks
•Schools
•Working farm
•To wn center
•Office/industrial
•Community facilities
3.1
Packet Pg. 86 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
Active Projects
& Investment
3.1
Packet Pg. 87 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
15Recent Development Activity
Lak
e
C
anal No. 8 OutletLarimer
and Weld
Canal
R
i
c
h
a
r
d's
L
a
k
e
L
o
n
g
P
o
n
d
Linden
m
eierLake
Jacks
o
nDitchLak
e
C
anal No. 8 OutletLarimer
and Weld
Canal
R
i
c
h
a
r
d's
L
a
k
e
L
o
n
g
P
o
n
d
Linden
m
eierLake
Jacks
o
nDitchTurnberry RdMtn Vista Drive
TimberlineVine Dr GiddingsSuniga
Country Club Dr
Lemay11
11 Montava*
22 Country Club Reserve
33 Wa ter ’s Edge / Sonders*
44 Wa terfield*Richards Lake Rd
Douglas Rd22
33
44
Recently Approved
= Metro District*
N
55
55
Northfield*
Initial Phases of Montava Development
Coming Up
3.1
Packet Pg. 88 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
16Planned Transportation Improvements
11 Vine & Lemay Overpass (2021)
Suniga (various sections)
Timberline/Vine Signal (2022)
Current Projects
(Funded, underway, or complete)
Future Projects
(with Development)
77 Turnberry (various sections)
Turnberry & Country Club Signal
(complete)
Timberline / Mtn Vista widening &
intersection improvements
Mtn. Vista / I-25 Signal
Vine Dr Bridge over I-25 (complete)
66
22
33
44
55 SH 1 / Douglas Rd Signal (2021)
88
99
3.1
Packet Pg. 89 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
17Parks, Recreation and Trail Projects
Tr averse Park
Under Construction
Opens Fall 2021
Crescent Park
Opened 2019
Sugar Beet Park
Opened 2019
Vine & Lemay
Trail Underpass
Under Construction
NE Community Park
Park Site Identified
Iron Horse Park
Property Purchased
Richards Lake Park
Property Purchased
Paved Trails
Multiple Easements Secured
East Ridge Park
Park Site Identified
Poudre River
Whitewater Park
Opened 2019
3.1
Packet Pg. 90 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
18Policy& Program Initiatives
•Multiple initiatives currently in
progress that help advance the
vision for Northeast Fort Collins:
•Housing Land Use Code
Updates
•Nature in the City Land
Use Code Updates
•Housing Strategic Plan
Implementation
•Tr ansportation Capital
Project Prioritization Study
•Neighborhood Action
Planning
3.1
Packet Pg. 91 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
Utility Services
3.1
Packet Pg. 92 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
20Water Utilities
•Potable Water service provider: East Larimer
County Water District (ELCO)
•Requires water rights be provided which
is more expensive than the current
Utilities Cash In Lieu fee.
•Groundwater system is being explored
as water supply in this area by Montava.
•Fort Collins Utilities has been requested
to partner in a lease of water to
augment the groundwater proposal by
Montava.
•As the cost of water rises, the number of other
amenities that a developer can provide to the
development and still remain competitive in
housing prices may decrease.
ELCO
SERVICE
AREA
3.1
Packet Pg. 93 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
21Wastewater Utilities
•Wastewater Service provider: Boxelder
Sanitation District (BSD)
•Large Service Area with population
that is spread out drives higher
capital costs.
•BSD has developed a multi-family
rate to reflect changing nature of
development in their service area.
•BSD did establish an affordable
housing policy.
BOXELDER
SERVICE
AREA
3.1
Packet Pg. 94 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
22Stormwater Utility
•Fort Collins Utilities is the stormwater provider in
this area
•Mountain Vista Subarea is in the Cooper Slough
Drainage Basin
•Any partnering on stormwater improvements would
be incorporated into development agreements
3.1
Packet Pg. 95 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
NE Fort Collins: Opportunities & Challenges 23
Opportunities
•Largest undeveloped area of city
•Potential for full range of housing options
and mixed neighborhoods
•Impact fees for infrastructure and amenities
•Potential for new parks, schools, open
space, and community facilities
Challenges
•High cost of development
•Utility service constraints
•Water supply and costs
•High infrastructure needs to serve growing
population
3.1
Packet Pg. 96 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
24Mountain Vista Subarea Plan Vision
“…an area known for its impressive views of the mountains and recognized for its successful and innovative
community design. This subarea will be distinct and attractive with a comfortable, town-like atmosphere that
residents and businesses identify with and take pride in. Neighborhoods, parks, schools, shopping district
and business centers within this subarea will be connected and served by a variety of travel choices
including vehicle, transit, bicycle, and pedestrian modes…”
3.1
Packet Pg. 97 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
25Council Discussion
1.What questions or guidance does Council have related to planning and
projects in northeast Fort Collins?
2.Would Council like additional information related to specific projects,issues or
opportunities in this area?
3.1
Packet Pg. 98 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
3.1
Packet Pg. 99 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)
Vi sion for Northeast Fort Collins
Zoning Ac reage
Low Density Mixed Use
Neighborhood (LMN)
1,298 acres
Medium Density Mixed Use
Neighborhood (MMN)
144 acres
Employment 660 acres
Industrial 450 acres
Open land, community park
and school site
400 acres
Community Commercial 30 acres
To tal 2,989 acres
27
Growth
Management
Area (GMA)
Boundary
Mountain Vista
Subarea
City Limits
(Yellow)
3.1
Packet Pg. 100 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (10574 : Northeast Fort Collins Planning and Projects Overview)