HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES-03/16/1999-RegularMarch 16,1999
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS, COLORADO
Council -Manager Form of Government
Regular Meeting - 6:00 p.m.
A regular meeting of the Council of the City of Fort Collins was held on Tuesday, March 16, 1999,
at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the City of Fort Collins City Hall. Roll Call was answered
by the following Councilmembers: Azari, Bertschy, Byrne, Kneeland, Mason, Smith and Wanner.
Staff Members Present: Fischbach, Krajicek, Roy.
Citizen Participation
David Lauer, 1404 Robertson Street, thanked the Council and staff for their work on acquiring land
in the Poudre River floodplain. He also thanked the Council for denial of the Wal-Mart project. He
presented plaques from Friends of the Poudre recognizing Council's and staff's support of the
Gateway Park project.
Paul Valentine, 2404 Sheffield Circle East, urged voters to support the $.36 sales tax for
transportation that is on the April 6 ballot.
Fred Garth, 2007 Sheffield Court, City of Fort Collins retiree, spoke regarding the need for a cost
of living adjustment for City retirees and encouraged Council's favorable consideration of an
adjustment in the budget deliberations. He asked the City retirees in the audience to stand.
Tim Johnson, Transportation Board, spoke in support of the transportation sales tax and urged voters
to vote in favor.
Citizen Participation Follow-up
Councilmember Bertschy requested a two -page memo regarding a cost of living adjustment for
retirees.
Councilmember Bertschy spoke regarding efforts in support of the transit sales tax.
Councilmember Smith supported receiving a two -page memo regarding the cost of living adjustment
and thanked the City retirees for their efforts in making Fort Collins a great community.
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Councilmember Smith thanked the Friends of the Poudre for recognizing the City's efforts with
regard to the Poudre River and thanked various groups for their efforts.
Agenda Review
City Manager Fischbach noted that Councilmember Bertschyhas a conflict of interest regarding item
#22 Resolution 99-28 Directing Staff to Proceed to Negotiate a Mutually Agreeable Transfer of
Properties Between the City, Colorado State University and the Colorado State University Research
Foundation for the Site of a Community Horticulture Center and that item will be moved to the end
of the agenda.
City Manager Fischbach noted an amendment made to item #23 Resolution 99-29Approving the Air
Quality Action Plan Update for 2000-2003 and noted that the amended item will remain on the
Consent Calendar.
City Manager Fischbach noted that revised Resolutions have been prepared and provided to Council
for item #32 Items Related to the West Central Neighborhoods Plan.
City Manager Fischbach noted that several items have been added to the agenda: Resolution 99-39
relating to the transportation tax and Resolution 99-40 relating to the northeast truck bypass.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Second Reading of Ordinance No. 33, 1999, Appropriating Unanticipated PILOT Revenue
from the Fort Collins Housing Authority in the General Fund.
The City received unanticipated revenue from the Fort Collins Housing Authority in the
amount of $18,476 as a 1997 payment for public services and facilities and $16,463 in 1998.
The revenue was placed in the General Fund. Ordinance No. 33, 1999, which was
unanimously adopted on First Reading on March 2, 1999, returns the funds to the Housing
Authority to be used for technology improvements specifically related to Y2K compliance.
8. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 34, 1999, Authorizing the Transfer of Existing
Annronriations Between Funds.
Ordinance No. 34, 1999, which was unanimously adopted on First Reading on March 2,
1999, authorizes the transfer of the $902,109 from the General Fund to those funds that have
employees subsidized by the General Fund and appropriates that amount in those various
funds.
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9. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 36, 1999, Authorizing the Purchasing Agent to Enter into
an Agreement for the Financing by Lease -Purchase of Vehicles and Equipment.
Ordinance No. 36, 1999, was unanimously adopted on First Reading on March 2, 1999 and
authorizes the Purchasing Agent to enter into a lease -purchase financing agreement with
Safeco Credit Company at a 4.61 percent interest rate. The agreement shall be for an original
term from the execution date of the agreement to the end of the current fiscal year. The
agreement shall provide for renewable one-year terms thereafter, to a total term of five (5)
years, subject to annual appropriation of funds needed for lease payments. The total lease
terms, including the original and all renewal terms, will not exceed the useful life of the
property. This lease -purchase financing is consistent with the financial policies of the City
of Fort Collins.
10. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 37, 1999, Vacating Street Rights -of -Way for White
Mountain Court and Bridgefield Lane as Dedicated on the Plat for Windtrail Park PUD.
Ordinance No. 37, 1999, which was unanimously adopted on First Reading on March 2,
1999, vacates the street rights -of -way for White Mountain Court and Bridgefield Lane.
11. Second Reading_of Ordinance No. 38, 1999, Authorizing the Conveyance of Real Property
to Gary and CMm L. Delehoy in Exchange for an Access Easement.
The City's purchase of the Hyde Open Space included land needed for access to Overland
Trail Road. This land is no longer needed because other property needed to complete the
access to Overland Trail has not been obtained. The Delehoys have agreed to convey to the
City a new, non-public maintenance and access easement to the Hyde Natural Area in
exchange for the City's unneeded land and $1,600. Ordinance No. 38, 1999 was
unanimously adopted on First Reading on March 2, 1999.
12 Second Reading of Ordinance No. 39, 1999, Appropriating Prior Year Reserves in the Sales
and Use Tax Fund for Transfer to the Cultural Services and Facilities Fund Implementation
of the Arts Alive Program.
Ordinance No. 39, 1999, which was unanimously adopted on First Reading on March 2,
1999, appropriates monies from the Use Tax Carryover Reserve in the Sales and Use Tax
Fund to be transferred for use as the City's share of funding for the Arts Alive Program.
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13. Second Readine of Ordinance No. 40, 1999, Amending Various Sections of the Transitional
Land Use Regulations Relating to the Consolidation ofthe Office of Electric Utility Services
and the Office of Water, Wastewater and Stormwater Utility Services.
Ordinance No. 198, 1998, which was adopted on Second Reading on November 17, 1998,
consolidated the Office of Electric Utility Services and the Office of Water, Wastewater and
Stormwater Utility Services into one service area, the Office of Utility Services.
In view of this reorganization it is necessary to also make amendments to the Transitional
Land Use Regulations to change references to the "General Manager of the Water,
Wastewater and Stormwater Utility" to the "General Manager of Utility Services." Also,
references to the "Office of the Electric Utility" and "Office of the Water, Wastewater and
Stormwater Utility" should be changed to the "Office of Utility Services." The necessary
changes are detailed in Ordinance No. 40, 1999, which was unanimously adopted on First
Reading on March 2, 1999.
14. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 41, 1999, Making Various Amendments to the Fort
Collins Land Use Code.
Ordinance No. 41, 1999, was unanimously adopted on First Reading on March 2, 1999, and
makes the following revisions to the Land Use Code:
1. Re-evaluation and refinement of the Natural Habitat Protection Standards;
2. Re-evaluation and refinement of the "Block Standards" and other development
standards contained in the LMN, MMN, NC and CC zones.
3. Exemption of the Harmony Corridor and Fossil Creek Reservoir Plan areas from the
contiguity requirement contained in the Compact Urban Growth Standards.
4. Clarification and refinement of the process and standards for Planning and Zoning
Board review of requests for Modifications to Land Use Code Standards.
One affected property owner offered detailed comments outlining concerns with the proposed
changes at the March 2 meeting. Council directed staff to review and respond to the property
owner's concerns. Staff met with the property owner, and explained how the proposed Code
revisions relate to their property. The property owner now understands that the specific
changes proposed with this Ordinance do not directly affect the developability of their
property, but that other existing Code provisions do affect how the property may be
developed. Staff is continuing to work with the property owner regarding how to work
through these issues. The property owner indicated that the proposed clarifications to the
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Modifications to Land Use Code Standards process will be very helpful and important to
them in exploring options for their property.
15. First Reading of Ordinance No. 43, 1999, Appropriating Unanticipated Revenue in the
General Fund for Fort Collins Build A Generation.
For the past four years, Fort Collins Build A Generation has applied for grant money from
the Division of Criminal Justice. Fort Collins Build A Generation is part of a state-wide
initiative designed to reduce youth violence, delinquency, school drop -out, pregnancy and
substance abuse. The City must serve as a pass -through agent because of federal mandate.
Federal law requires a sight and sound separation ofjuveniles from adults when apprehended
by law enforcement.
The funds that come to the Fort Collins community to implement this project are federal
Title V funds and receipt of these funds is contingent upon compliance with applicable
federal laws. Total funding to be received by the City of Fort Collins for fiscal year July 1,
1998 - June 30, 1999 is $51,552.
16. First Reading of Ordinance No. 44, 1999, Appropriating Prior Year Reserves and
Unanticipated Revenue in the Street Oversizing Fund and Authorizing the Transfer of
Apnronriations from the Street Oversizing Fund to the Capital Projects Fund for the South
Timberline Road Improvement Project.
Arterial street improvements are planned for Timberline Road at Willow Springs from Battle
Creek Drive to the Mail Creek Ditch. These improvements include curb and gutter, detached
sidewalks, bike lanes, right turn lanes, and the installation of new sixteen -inch (16") water
main. The project is predominantly funded by the Street Oversizing Program, but includes
a Development portion contributed in the form of a Contribution In Aid, as well as a
contribution from the Fort Collins/Loveland Water District. The Fort Collins/Loveland
Water District portion will cover costs of extending the District's water line to meet future
needs. Staff is requesting funds to be appropriated from the Street Oversizing Fund to the
Capital Projects Fund for the purpose of starting these arterial road improvements in May of
1999. Staff believes this project needs to start in the spring of 1999 in order to avoid severe
traffic delays and congestion in the area. Arterial improvements on Timberline Road at
Willow Springs are also necessary in 1999 to keep construction impacts on city residents to
a minimum.
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17. First Reading of Ordinance No. 45, 1999, Appropriating Unanticipated Revenue and Prior
Year Reserves in the Transportation Services Fund for the Metropolitan Planning
Oreanization and Smarttrips Transportation Demand Management Programs.
The North Front Range Transportation and Air Quality Planning Council ("NFRT and
AQPC") is the regional Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). This Ordinance would
appropriate unanticipated revenue and prior year reserves in the amount of $281,022: (1)
$74,774 in unanticipated revenue of this amount, $66,771 is in the form of additional TEA-
21 planning funds, consisting of $54,752 in federal funds, $12,019 in local matching funds
from various agencies within the region. The remainder is $8,003 from prior year reserves;
(2) $10,000 in local matching funds for the FY98 State Highway 14 and I-25 interchange
study project; and (3) $196,248 in carryover funds from FY98, consisting of $173,958 in
federal funds and $22,290 in local matching funds from various agencies within the region.
18. First Readine of Ordinance No. 46, 1999, Appropriating Unanticipated Revenue in the
General Fund for the Police Services Crimes Against Persons/Victim Services Units.
Fort Collins Police Services' Crimes Against Persons/Victim Services Units have been
awarded a one-year Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) grant to help fund training
opportunities for Detectives and Victim Advocates. The grant period is from April 1, 1999
through March 31, 2000.
This grant is awarded to agencies to assist in the enhancement of services to women who are
victims of crime. Detectives will be able to attend training on areas such as homicide,
domestic violence and sexual assault, which will strengthen investigative skills as well as
provide exceptional services to victims of crime. Victim Advocates will attend training that
will strengthen skills in advocacy, crisis intervention, and provide specialized training in
trauma specific to crimes such as homicide, domestic violence and sexual assault.
19. First Reading of Ordinance No. 47, 1999, Amending Section 21-87 of the City Code and
Article XI of the General Employees Retirement Plan Concerning Membership in the
General Employees Retirement Committee.
Since the creation of the General Employees Retirement Plan in 1971, a five member board
has been responsible for oversight and implementation of the Plan. None of the slots for the
committee are specifically reserved for a retiree from the Plan. At the end of 1998, 368
active members of the Plan decided to convert to a money purchase plan. Beginning in 1999,
all new hires at the City will enroll in the money purchase plan. The ratio of retirees to active
members has changed significantly over the past few years. In 1998, there were 839 active
members compared to 96 retires and 11 beneficiaries, a ratio of 8 to 1. After the partial
conversion, there are approximately 560 active members and the 96 retirees and 11
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beneficiaries. The General Employees Retirement Committee has discussed the situation and
strongly believes that the retirees are a significant portion of the Plan and they should be
represented on the Committee. The Resolution would add one position on the Committee
to be filled by a retired member of the Plan. The Resolution amends both the City Code
provisions and the Plan.
20. First Readin¢ of Ordinance No. 48, 1999, Authorizing the City to Grant a Non -Exclusive
Easement Across Meadow Springs Ranch to Williams Communications, Inc. for Installation
and Maintenance of Fiber Optic Cable.
In 1980, the Cities Service Gas Company acquired a 50-foot wide easement across a portion
of the Meadow Springs Ranch near the Colorado/Wyoming border, for installation of a
natural gas pipeline. Williams Communications, hic. has requested another easement within
these boundaries, but subject to the existing pipeline easement, for the installation and
maintenance of fiber optic cable to be used for telephone digital data transmission and
internet services. The proposed easement is 10 feet wide and approximately 2,254 feet in
length (51 acres). Staff has reviewed and recommends approval of the requested easement.
21. Resolution 99-27 Adopting a Revised City of Fort Collins Diversity Plan.
The proposed updated Diversity Plan is a set of goals, strategies and actions which have been
created to guide the City in its ongoing efforts to work together internally, as well as with the
entire Fort Collins community, to create aplace which is welcoming, inclusive and respectful
of all people. The first Diversity Plan was adopted by City Council in 1993, and this is the
first update.
22. Resolution 99-28 Directing Staff to Proceed to Negotiate a Mutually Agreeable Transfer of
Properties Between the CityColorado State University and the Colorado State University
Research Foundation for the Site of a Community Horticulture Center.
In December 1998, Council directed staff to work with Colorado State University to
determine if a partnership could be developed for a Community Horticulture Center. Staff
and CSU, together with Colorado State University Research Foundation ("CSURF") have
been working toward that goal by negotiating a possible exchange of properties. The
exchange involves a parcel currently owned by CSURF and the City -owned High School
Park.
Staff has reviewed with the Council the general parameters of a proposed exchange of
property with CSU/CSURF. This resolution directs staff to continue negotiating with CSU
and CSURF, and to return to Council for additional formal action when appropriate
agreements have been developed between the City and CSU/CSURF. Staff expects that
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these negotiations can proceed promptly, and hopes to complete them in the near future.
Staff seeks to proceed on a schedule that would permit the proposal to be reviewed by the
State Board of Agriculture in May for the approvals which CSU requires. Following that
approval, staff expects to return to Council with an IGA for its consideration.
23. Resolution 99-29 Approving the Air Quality Action Plan Update for 2000-2003.
The proposed Air Quality Action Plan is a set of actions to continue implementation of the
Air Quality Policy Plan (City Plan Principles and Policies ENV-1). The first Action Plan
was adopted in 1994, and this will be its third update. Once approved by City Council, the
Action Plan becomes the basis for staff work programs and budget recommendations.
24. Resolution 99-30 Stating the Intent of the City of Fort Collins to Annex Certain Property and
Initiating Annexation Proceedings for Such Property to Be Known as the Keating First
Annexation.
This is a request for a 100% voluntary annexation. The property being considered for
annexation is approximately 11.27 acres in size and is north of Trilby Road and west of
Timberline Road. The existing use of the property is agricultural in Larimer County. The
proposed zoning for this annexation is LMN-Low Density Mixed -Use Neighborhood
District.
The proposed Resolution states that it is the City's intent to annex this property and directs
that the published notice required by State law be given of the Council's hearing to consider
the needed annexation ordinance. The hearing will be held at the time of First Reading of
the annexation and zoning ordinances on April 20, 1999. Not less than thirty days prior
published notice is required by State law.
25. Resolution 99-31 Stating the Intent of the City of Fort Collins to Annex Certain Property and
Initiating Annexation Proceedings for Such Property to Be Known as the Keating Second
Annexation.
This is a request for a 100% voluntary annexation. The property being considered for
annexation is approximately 26.43 acres in size and is north of Trilby Road and west of
Timberline Road. The existing use of the property is agricultural in Larimer County. The
proposed zoning for this annexation is LMN-Low Density Mixed -Use Neighborhood
District.
The proposed Resolution states that it is the City's intent to annex this property and directs
that the published notice required by State law be given of the Council's hearing to consider
the needed annexation ordinance. The hearing will be held at the time of First Reading of
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the annexation and zoning ordinances on April 20, 1999. Not less than thirty days prior
published notice is required by State law.
26. Resolution 99-32 Establishing Rental Rates to be Charged for the City's Surplus Raw Water
for the 1999 Season.
This Resolution approves rates for the rental of the City's surplus raw water. Each year prior
to the irrigation season, the City's Water Board makes a recommendation to the Council on
the rental rates to be charged for the City's surplus raw water. The surplus water rental
program was discussed at its February 25, 1999 meeting of the Board. The proposed rental
rates for each type of water are based on several factors including past rental rates,
assessment rates, and anticipated supply and demand conditions.
27. Routine Deeds and Easements.
A. Deed of Dedication from James and Maureen Vincent for a right-of-way, located at
920 South Overland Trail. Monetary consideration: $10.
B. Deed of Dedication from Warren Shores Community Association for a pedestrian
ramp, located at the southwest comer of East Horsetooth Road and North Star
Course. Monetary consideration: $10.
C. Easement from Ernesto F. Magdalen and Mary Jane Magdaleno for a construction
and maintenance of public utilities, located at 513 Ponderosa Drive. Monetary
consideration: $200.
Items on Second Reading were read by title by City Clerk Wanda Krajicek.
Second Readies of Ordinance No. 33, 1999, Appropriating Unanticipated PILOT Revenue
from the Fort Collins Housing Authority n the General Fund.
8. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 34, 1999, Authorizing the Transfer of Existing
Appropriations Between Funds.
9. Second Readine of Ordinance No. 36, 1999, Authorizing the Purchasing Aeent to Enter into
an Agreement for the Financing by Lease -Purchase of Vehicles and Equipment.
10. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 37, 1999, Vacating Street Rights -of -Way for White
Mountain Court and Bridgefield Lane as Dedicated on the Plat for Windtrail Park PUD.
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11. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 38, 1999, Authorizing the Conveyance of Real Property
to Gary and Caryn L. Delehov in Exchange for an Access Easement.
12 Second Reading of Ordinance No. 39,1999, Appropriating Prior Year Reserves in the Sales
and Use Tax Fund for Transfer to the Cultural Services and Facilities Fund Implementation
of the Arts Alive Program.
13. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 40,1999, Amending Various Sections of the Transitional
Land Use Regulations Relating to the Consolidation of the Office of Electric Utility Services
and the Office of Water, Wastewater and Stormwater Utility Services.
14. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 41, 1999, Making Various Amendments to the Fort
Collins Land Use Code.
31. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 42,1999, Amending the "Storm Drainage Design Criteria
and Construction Standards" by Revising the Rainfall Intensity Duration Curve Graph.
Items on First Reading were read by title by City Clerk Wanda Krajicek.
15. First Reading of Ordinance No. 43, 1999, Appropriating Unanticipated Revenue in the
General Fund for Fort Collins Build A Generation.
16. First Reading of Ordinance No. 44, 1999, Appropriating Prior Year Reserves and
Unanticipated Revenue in the Street Oversizing Fund and Authorizing the Transfer of
Appropriations from the Street Oversizing Fund to the Capital Projects Fund for the South
Timberline Road Improvement Project.
17. First Reading of Ordinance No. 45, 1999, Appropriating Unanticipated Revenue and Prior
Year Reserves in the Transportation Services Fund for the Metropolitan Planning
Organization and Smarttrips Transportation Demand Management Programs.
18. First Reading of Ordinance No. 46, 1999, Appropriating Unanticipated Revenue in the
General Fund for the Police Services Crimes Against PersonsNictim Services Units.
19. First Reading of Ordinance No. 47, 1999, Amending Section 21-87 of the City Code and
Article XI of the General Employees Retirement Plan Concerning Membership in the
General Employees Retirement Committee.
20. First Reading of Ordinance No. 48, 1999, Authorizing the City to Grant a Non -Exclusive
Easement Across Meadow Springs Ranch to Williams Communications, Inc. for Installation
and Maintenance of Fiber Optic Cable.
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Councilmember Mason made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Bertschy, to adopt and approve
all items not withdrawn from the Consent Calendar. The vote on the motion was as follows: Yeas:
Councilmembers Azari, Bertschy, Byrne, Kneeland, Mason, Smith and Wanner. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Consent Calendar Follow-up
Councilmember Kneeland spoke in support of the Art's Alive program.
Councilmember Reports
Councilmember Wanner reported on the Growth Management Committee's discussions regarding
the MPO transportation report card and the West Central Neighborhood Plan.
Councilmember Byme reported on the community economic forum held last week.
Councilmember Kneeland reported on the National League of Cities conference sessions on
affordable housing, E-commerce, and traffic congestion.
Councilmember Bertschy reported on the National League of Cities conference University -
Communities caucus meeting and sessions regarding federal legislation concerning the freeze of use
of Land and Water Conservation funds for parks and open space and legislation regarding hate
crimes.
Councilmember Smith reported on the National League of Cities conference and his participation
on the Youth Education and Families committee.
Councilmember Smith reported on the regional transportation committee's discussions regarding the
allocation of funds for congestion mitigation and air quality actions in Fort Collins and a
transportation alternatives feasibility study.
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Ordinance No. 42,1999,
Amending the "Storm Drainage Design Criteria
and Construction Standards" by Revising the Rainfall
Intensity Duration Curve Graph, Adopted as Amended on Second Reading
The following is staff s memorandum on this item.
"Executive Summa
Ordinance No. 42, 1999, which was adopted 4-1 on March 2, 1999, modifies the current family of
design storms used by the City of Fort Collins, which are currently the 100-year, 50 year, 25 year,
10 year, 5-year and 2-year storm frequencies, based on a revised analysis of rainfall data.
On First Reading Councilmember Bertschy offered two amendments to the Ordinance that were
included in the adoption of the Ordinance. The first amendment involved additional language
requiring the City to establish and operate a City-wide network of precipitation and stream flow
gages, and to use this information in decision making. The second amendment involved additional
language ensuring the Utilities General Manager has the authority to enhance drainage basin
masterplans to provide for additional flood protection. These amendments are included in Sections
3 and 4 of the attached Ordinance.
Also added to the Ordinance between First and Second readings is a new Section 5. This new
Section clarifies that Section I of the Ordinance, which modifies the City's current family of design
storms, does not apply to any land development for which an application for preliminary or final
subdivision plan approval, preliminary orfnal P. U.D. plan approval, orproject development plan
or final plan approval has been filed with the Cityprior to March 26, 1999, whether filed under the
City's Land Use Code or under prior law. "
City Manager Fischbach noted that an amended ordinance has been prepared in response to
suggestions made by Councilmember Bertschy.
Councilmember Bertschy made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Byrne, to adopt Ordinance
No. 42, 1999 on Second Reading as amended.
Councilmember Byrne noted that there might be confusion in some of the neighborhoods regarding
the next steps. Mike Smith, Utilities Director, stated that the next step will be revising the basin
master plans and that the process will include public outreach. Susan Hayes, Senior Stormwater
Engineer, stated that alternatives will be developed for the Canal Importation Basin by summer and
the master plan for that basin should be completed by the end of 1999. City Manager Fischbach
stated that the City will be communicating with the public in various ways during the process.
Councilmember Bertschy highlighted the amendments made to the ordinance.
March 16, 1999
The vote on Councilmember Bertschy's motion was as follows: Yeas: Councilmembers Azari,
Bertschy, Byrne, Kneeland, Smith and Wanner. Nays: Councilmember Mason.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Items Related to the West
Central Neighborhoods Plan, Adopted
The following is staff s memorandum on this item.
"Executive Summary
A. Resolution 99-33 Adopting the West Central Neighborhoods Plan as an element of City
Plan, the City's Comprehensive Plan.
B. Resolution 99-34 Amending the City Structure Plan Map
The West Central Neighborhoods Plan is a subarea (neighborhood) plan for an "L " shaped area
of approximately three square miles located west, southwest, and south of the Colorado State
University Main Campus. Theplanning area's boundaries extendfrom Mulberry Street on the north
to Drake Road on the south, and from the Burlington Northern/Saute Fe Railroad tracks on the east
to Taft Hill Road on the west.
The West Central Neighborhoods Plan had its beginnings in 1995, when a group ofcitizens began
working with City staff on the development of the "Prospect/Shields Neighborhood Plan. " The
scope of the project expanded to be called the West Central Neighborhoods Plan and include the
present coverage of approximately three square miles. The planning process for this Plan was
somewhat unique when compared to other subarea plans in that the Citizens Advisory Committee
did most of the problem identification, research, analysis, and development of the Plan. City staff
played a mentorship role.
The West Central Neighborhoods Plan is organized in a manner similar to other subarea plans
adopted by the City. There are four chapters in the Plan. Chapter I presents an "Introduction. "
Chapter 2 presents the Plan's "Visioning and Goals. " Chapter 3 presents "Policies and Plans. "
And Chapter 4 lists a series of "Implementation Actions. " The issues areas covered in the Plan
include: (1) Land Use, (2) Public and Private Sector Services, (3) Parks and Open Lands, (4)
Neighborhood Appearance and Design, (5)Housing, (6)Transportation, (7) Historic Preservation,
and (8) Sense of Community.
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Adoption of the West Central Neighborhoods Plan (by approval of Resolution 99-33) will create
amendments to City Plan, particularly the City Structure Plan map (by approval of Resolution 99-
34), and lead to other amendments to the Land Use Code and Zoning Map. The Plan could also
possibly lead to changes in the Parks and Recreation Policy Plan, and a reevaluation ofthe Master
Street Plan.
While the West Central Neighborhoods Plan resembles many planning documents in terms of
traditional content and focus, there is a rather unique section entitled "Sense of Community"which
callsfor the investigation ofthe establishment ofa "West Central Neighborhoods Caucus" that will
help implement the Plan. The Caucus needs to be further defined by the Neighborhood Resources
Office working with members of the Citizens Advisory Committee and other City staff as to its roles
and responsibilities but, essentially it would be a group of neighborhood residents and property -
owners responsible for both "internal" and "external" implementation aspects of Plan. After the
Caucus'roles and responsibilities are defined, the City Council can determine how it best fits into
the governance of the City.
BACKGROUND:
The West Central Neighborhoods Plan is a subarea (neighborhood) plan for an "L " shaped area
of approximately three square miles located west, southwest, and south of the Colorado State
University Main Campus. Theplanning area's boundaries extendfrom Mulberry Street on the north
to Drake Road on the south, and from the Burlington Northern/Saute Fe Railroad tracks on the east
to Taft Hill Road on the west. Located within the planning area's boundaries are Rolland Moore
Park, Avery Park, Red Fox Meadows Natural Area, Moore and Bennet Elementary Schools, and the
CSU Vet Hospital. Located outside the planning area, but immediately adjacent to the boundaries,
are City Park and the City Park Nine Golf Course, Blevins Junior High School and Blevins Park,
and the CSU Main Campus.
The West Central Neighborhoods Plan had its beginnings in 1995, when a group of citizens began
working with City staff on the development of the "Prospect/Shields Neighborhood Plan. " The
scope of the project expanded to the West Central Neighborhoods Plan and include the present
coverage of approximately three square miles. The planning process for this Plan was somewhat
unique when compared to other subarea plans in that the Citizens Advisory Committee did most of
the problem identification, research, analysis, and development of the Plan. City staff played a
mentorship role.
The West Central Neighborhoods Plan is organized in a manner similar to other subarea plans
adopted by the City. There are four chapters in the Plan. Chapter 1 presents an "Introduction "and
discusses the Plan's planning process and relationship to City Plan. Chapter 2 presents the Plan's
"Visioning and Goals. " Chapter 3 presents "Policies and Plans. " And Chapter 4 lists a series of
"Implementation Actions. " The issues areas covered in the Plan include: (1) Land Use, (2) Public
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and Private Sector Services, (3) Parks and Open Lands, (4) Neighborhood Appearance and Design,
(5) Housing, (6) Transportation, (7) Historic Preservation, and (8) Sense of Community.
Presented below is a summary discussion of the major issue areas of the West Central
Neighborhoods Plan. References are provided to the actual text of the February 8, 1999, draft
version of the Plan by noting the Chapter and Page where a more detailed presentation of the issues
can be found.
From a land useperspective the Plan divides the neighborhoods into "Conservation, Development,
and Redevelopment Areas" (Chapter 3, Page 2, and Map 2). Conservation areas are areas where
current land uses are considered the most appropriate uses of land. Development areas are
available undeveloped/vacant lands suitablefor new development. Redevelopment areas are areas
where current land uses are not considered to be the most appropriate for the future and should
convert to more efficient uses. In some areas redevelopment will be encouraged to utilize existing
structures while in others existing structures will need to be removed to achieve the Plan's goals.
The "Land Use and Housing Densities Plan" (Chapter 3, Page 3, and Map 3) divides the
neighborhoods into nine land use types including residential, commercial, employment, and mixed -
use classifications. The residential areas range from an "Urban Estate Area" where the residential
density is limited to 2 dwelling units per acre, to "Medium Density Mixed -Use Neighborhoods"
where the minimum density is 12 dwelling units per acre, and on to a "Campus District" where
high rise structures, up to 5 stories would be encouraged. Non-residential areas range from small
neighborhood centers, to "Neighborhood Related Commercial Areas" and the "Campus
West/Community Commercial Area, " and on to an "Employment District. " Map 3 depicts the
spatial distribution of these areas and would require amendments to the City Structure Plan map
which would be achieved by the City Council's adoption of Resolution 99-34.
Two property -owners object to the Plan's land use designations for their properties. The Hill
property, located at 1125 South Shields, is designated as a low density mixed use area and a
neighborhood conservation buffer area in the Plan to act as a transition between multi family and
office development to the north and single-family housing to the south. This designation is
supported by City staff and the Advisory Committee. The property -owner would like the property
to remain in its current community commercial district designation or be designated a medium
density mixed use area. The "Young's Pasture"property, located south of Prospect and east of
Shields, is designated as a medium densitymixed use area in the Plan. This designation is supported
by the Advisory Committee. The property -owner would like the property to be designated as a low
density mixed use area. Staffsupports the property -owner's request because the property could act
as a transition between multi family development to the west and single-family housing to the east.
The property is also difficult to develop given its limited access and sloping grade.
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A "Zoning District Plan" (Chapter 3, Page 9, and Map 4) is designed to implement the "Land Use
and Housing Densities Plan." Nine Zoning Districts, eight of which currently exist in the Land Use
Code, are intended to implement the conservation, development, and redevelopment concepts and
the nine land use classifications of the "Land Use and Housing Densities Plan. " A new district, the
"H-M-N, High Density Mixed Use Neighborhood, District, " design modifications to the Land Use
Standards in the "N-C-B, Neighborhood Conservation Buffer District, " and Map 4 would require
amendments to the Land Use Code. Because of a failure to have a notice published in the
newspaper at least 15 days prior to the Council's consideration of the proposed rezonings, the
rezonings for the West Central Neighborhoods Plan could not be scheduled for the March 16, 1999,
Council meeting. The rezonings for the West Central Neighborhoods Plan will be forwarded to the
Council on April 20, 1999.
The "Parks, Natural Areas, and Public Facilities and Services Plan " (Chapter 3, Page 11, and Map
5) proposes three additional Neighborhood/Pocket Park sites within the neighborhoods. In the
"Parks and Open Lands Implementation Actions" (Chapter 4, Page 9) it is noted that the City's
Parkland Fee revenues generated in this subarea are not sufficient for the development of all three
of the sites. Therefore, the Plan recognizes that future capital improvement program funds will be
necessary to complete the Plan's parkland goals. City staff and the Parks and Recreation Board
recommend that the "Young's Pasture" site be deleted from the Plan as a potential park site.
The "Housing Policies and Plans" (Chapter 3, Page 13) attempts to deal with encouraging a mix
of housing types so units are available for families ofall incomes and to balance the need for CSU
student/rental housing while mitigating negative impacts within the neighborhoods.
The "Transportation Policies and Plans " (Chapter 3, Page 14, and Maps 6, 7, 8, and 9) attempt to
help facilitate the movement of goods, services, and people within and through the planning area
in a safe and efficient manner and help encourage the use of alternative transportation modes. A
"Functional Classification of Streets Plan" (Map 6) asks for a reevaluation of the City's adopted
Master Street Plan map. Of particular concern is the functional classification and role of Centre
Avenue in the street system. Centre Avenue could form a critical link between the CSU Main
Campus and the southwestern portion of the community and help alleviate traffic congestion
currently forced to travel through the Prospect/Shields intersection. Other policies and plans deal
with adding Bicycle Routes and presenting recommendations for Pedestrian improvements. As in
the case with neighborhood/pocket parks, the Plan recognizes that many of the suggested
improvements will requirefundingfrom future capital improvementprograms (Chapter 4, Page 13).
The West Central Neighborhoods Plan contains a rather unique section entitled "Sense of
Community" (Chapter 2, Page 6) which calls for the investigation of the establishment of a "West
Central Neighborhoods Caucus" that will help implement the Plan. The Caucus needs to be further
defined by the Neighborhood Resource Office working with members of the Citizens Advisory
Committee and other City staffas to its roles and responsibilities but, essentially it would be a group
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of neighborhood residents and property -owners responsible for both "internal" and "external"
implementation aspects of Plan. The Caucus will help keep the neighborhoods organized, or
organize additional sub -neighborhood groups. The Caucus will help implement the Plan by dealing
with internal neighborhood issues and external relationships with the City government, the School
District, and Colorado State University. After the Caucus' roles and responsibilities are defined,
the City Council can determine how it best fits into the governance of the City.
Planning Process
After, literally, years of work by the Citizens Advisory Committee the first draft version of the West
Central Neighborhoods Plan was released on October 1, 1998. Public review ofthe f rst draft was
available at an Open House conducted on October 21, 1998. Public comments were received at a
Public Forum conducted on October 28,1998. In addition to comments made at the open house and
forum, City departments and Boards and Commissions also reviewed the draft and made suggestions
for changes. These comments are presented in Appendix D.
The second draft version ofthe Plan was released on February 8, 1999. Again, the public reviewed
the changes made at an Open House conducted on February 18, 1999. Reviews were also made by
City departments. These comments are also presented in Appendix D.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the West Central Neighborhoods Plan, dated
February8,1999, along with the amendments contained in Staffs memorandum to thePlanningand
Zoning Board dated March 3, 1999, as an element of City Plan, the City's Comprehensive Plan.
PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD RECOMMENDATION:
The Planning and Zoning Board, at their meeting of March 4, 1999, voted 7-0 to recommend
adoption of the West Central Neighborhoods Plan, dated February 8, 1999, along with the
amendments contained in Staffs memorandum to the Board dated March 3, 1999, except as
modified below:
Voted 7-0 to add a new "Historic Preservation "section to Chapter 3 of the Plan as
follows:
L. Historic Preservation
Policy Ll
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A comprehensive cultural resource inventory should be undertaken within the West
Central Neighborhoods to identify and preserve resources with historical,
architectural and/or geographic significance, and to identify the significant
historical characteristics of each neighborhood.
Policy L2
Design standards and guidelines for neighborhoods within the West Central
Neighborhoods will take into account thesignif cant historical characteristics ofthat
neighborhood, and will make every effort to preserve these characteristics.
Policy L3
Development and redevelopment in the West Central Neighborhoods should be
designed to be in character with existing historically significant resources, and to
provide for preservation and appropriate adaptive use of the historic resource.
Policy L4
New development/redevelopment activities should be designed to preserve and
enhance the significant historic qualities and characteristics of the individual
neighborhoods. If the City's Land Use Code lacks sufficient guidance and
protection for historic resources from new development/redevelopment activities, a
specific set of design standards and guidelines should be developed to assure the
preservation of an historic resource's character and integrity.
2. Voted 5-2 to delete all references to the proposed "West Central Neighborhoods
Caucus" throughout the Plan, but suggested the concept be pursued as a city-wide
issue and a separate project.
3. Voted 7-0 that the "Young's Pasture "property City Structure Plan map amendment
and rezoning be subjected to further processing involving surrounding property -
owners. "
City Manager Fischbach introduced the agenda item.
Ken Waido, Chief Planner, presented background regarding the West Central Neighborhoods Plan
and recognized the contributions of the citizen advisory committee.
Emily Smith, West Central Neighborhoods citizen advisory committee, spoke regarding the
collaborative efforts regarding development of the Plan, the composition of the advisory committee,
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and public outreach efforts that generated three categories of information: character of the
neighborhoods, housing and transportation. She stated that the Plan shows a vision for a vital part
of the City.
City Manager Fischbach noted that the staffs recommendation is to table the land use designation
decision for the Hill property at 1125 South Shields Street.
Waido stated that a key component of the plan is the Land Use and Housing Densities Plan, which
will lead to amendments to the Structure Plan. He spoke of problem areas, including the Hill
property at 1125 South Shields Street, the Young's Pasture property south of Prospect and east of
the Landmark Apartments, and the campus district area north of Prospect and east of Shields.
Harold Worth, West Central Neighborhoods citizen advisory committee, spoke regarding the
Young's Pasture property, the owner's request for a change in designation from MMN to LMN
zoning, and the Plan advisory committee's proposal that this property be designated for future use
as a pocket park or open space. He also spoke regarding the issue of funding difficulties for
neighborhood parks and the need for additional parks in the West Central Neighborhoods Plan area.
Waido stated that staff is recommending the adoption of the West Central Neighborhoods Plan as
an element of City Plan and that the Planning and Zoning Board recommends adoption of the Plan
with amendments to include a specific historic preservation section and to delete all references to
the West Central Neighborhood caucus.
Lloyd Walker, West Central Neighborhoods citizen advisory committee, spoke regarding the
advisory committee's discussions concerning the neighborhood caucus concept and development of
some sort of structure for neighborhood empowerment. He urged the Council to include the concept
of a neighborhood caucus in the Plan.
Councilmember Bertschy asked if the staff recommendation is to retain the neighborhood caucus
concept and noted that including this concept would set a precedent for other plans. Waido stated
that there is a direct connection between the Plan and the caucus concept. City Manager Fischbach
recommended following the Planning and Zoning Boards recommendation and stated that staff could
explore the caucus concept with the neighborhood separately.
Councilmember Kneeland expressed concerns that the creation of caucus could create another level
of bureaucracy and noted opportunities for creation of a neighborhood group without Council
approval. Lloyd Walker stated that the intent is to formalize the tie of the caucus to the Plan as an
implementing body and beyond the scope of a neighborhood association.
Councilmember Kneeland noted that the Plan seems to encourage more commercial development
in the West Central plan area and expressed concerns that a sense of community can be eroded when
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commercial development is out of proportion compared to residential. She also expressed concerns
regarding the impact of commercial lighting. Waido spoke regarding the type of development
anticipated in the Plan area. Emily Smith spoke regarding the concept of providing small
neighborhood services within walking or biking distance.
Councilmember Kneeland asked if staffhas looked at what kind ofbalance between commercial and
residential makes a neighborhood liveable. Greg Byrne, CPES Director, noted that commercial
developments follow guidelines regarding service area size and spoke regarding separation
requirements.
Councilmember Kneeland asked if the addition of parking at Rolland Moore Park will take land
away from the park and suggested working with neighboring office parks to obtain parking in their
lots on weekends. She supported the concept of pocket parks and promoting a diversity of uses.
Councilmember Byrne asked how long the Plan will be effective and how priorities will be
determined. Waido stated that the Plan will bring stability and predictability to the area and
priorities will be dealing with the rental properties in the neighborhood, creation of a measurement
of intensity of use, and dealing with multimodal transportation issues.
Councilmember Byme clarified that plans are advisory and do not compel the City toward any
specific course of action.
Councilmember Kneeland spoke regarding the work done on the issue of rental housing and asked
that the Plan clearly articulate that CSU has a role to play in providing options for student housing
in the West Central neighborhood.
City Attorney Roy explained the four options presented to the Council with regard to Resolution 99-
33 and the two options presented with regard to Resolution 99-34.
Councilmember Mason made amotion, seconded by Councilmember Kneeland, to adopt Resolution
99-33 (Option IA leaving the Hill property in the CC zone and maintaining the West Central
neighborhood caucus as written in the Plan).
Councilmember Byme asked about staffs concerns regarding the neighborhood caucus. City
Manager Fischbach stated that this would set a new precedent and that the concept needs to be
looked at on a City-wide basis. Harold Worth stated that the caucus concept was originally presented
to staff in 1997, requested some kind of resolution that would leave the issue open for consideration,
and suggested authorizing the Neighborhood Resources Office to work with the group on this issue.
Councilmember Byrne asked if the motion makers would consider a friendly amendment to the
motion.
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Councilmember Kneeland noted that the caucus issue has been central to discussions regarding the
Plan.
City Attorney Roy asked if the intent of the friendly amendment is to adopt Option 2A with direction
to staff to explore the caucus issue and report back within four weeks.
Councilmember Mason suggested the possibility of adopting Option lA with direction to staff to
come back with a report and recommendation concerning the details in two weeks.
Councilmember Bertschy suggested adding to the motion postponement of all references to the
caucus.
Councilmember Mason stated that his intent would be to work further on the idea of the caucus.
Councilmember Bertschy stated that he does not want to eliminate the idea of the caucus but wants
to postpone a decision on the caucus.
City Attorney Roy spoke regarding the difficulty in postponing part of the Plan.
Councilmember Smith commented that the caucus concept would be creation of a super
neighborhood and that this would begin to set a longer term direction for the Neighborhood Resource
Center.
Councilmember Mason clarified that his intent would be to adopt Option lA and give direction to
the City Manager to flesh out the caucus concept. He expressed a concern with allowing the caucus
to draw upon unlimited City resources and stated that these types of issues could be worked out
through discussions regarding the bylaws.
Mayor Azari spoke regarding encouraging citizens to be part ofthe planning implementation process
and the dilemma created for staff in creating a neighborhood caucus for each subarea plan.
Councilmember Wanner expressed a concern regarding the impact on the other plans in the City and
supported setting a reasonable time frame for review and discussion of this issue.
Councilmember Mason stated that he views this as a prototype process that may not be applied City-
wide and supported looking at ways to try new ideas such as this.
("Secretary's Note: The Council recessed at this point for 10 minutes.)
Councilmembers Mason and Kneeland withdrew the original motion regarding Option 1A.
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Councilmember Mason made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Kneeland, to adopt Resolution
99-33 (Option 2A).
Councilmember Mason stated that another motion will be made regarding direction concerning the
caucus concept.
Councilmember Kneeland noted references in the Plan to diversity and educating neighborhoods
regarding diversity and asked that the language be rewritten in a more positive manner. Harold
Worth stated that the goal is to accommodate and educate regarding diversity and stated that the
language in question could be amended.
Councilmember Bertschy noted references to the dispersal of affordable housing and asked that this
language be rewritten in a more positive manner.
City Attorney Roy suggested that the motion regarding the caucus could direct staff to come back
with proposed revisions consistent with the concerns that have been expressed about particular
sections of the plan.
Councilmember Kneeland suggested a change to chapter 2, page 6 to replace the phrase "overcome
unfounded biases and stereotypes" with "celebrate particular individuals or groups of people" and
on page A-48 remove the word "educate" and insert "provide information to."
Councilmember Bertschy suggested language on chapter 4, page 10 to read "City-wide dispersal of
housing incentives and programs for affordable housing should be encouraged so that an even
distribution occurs throughout the City."
Lucia Liley, representing Alden Hill and other property owners at 1125 South Shields Street, stated
that the property owners support the motion if it affords the opportunity for them to have further
discussion with staff. She stated that this property is unique and is the single largest undeveloped
parcel in the area.
Councilmember Kneeland thanked the advisory committee members for their work on the Plan.
Councilmember Mason thanked the committee members for their work.
Councilmember Wanner thanked those who worked on the Plan.
The vote on Councilmember Mason's motion was as follows: Yeas: Councilmembers Azari,
Bertschy, Byrne, Kneeland, Mason, Smith and Wanner. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
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Councilmember Mason made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Bertschy, to adopt Resolution
99-34 (Option 2).
Mayor Azari spoke regarding the caucus concept and the level of leadership in this neighborhood
group.
The vote on the motion was as follows: Yeas: Councilmembers Azari, Bertschy, Byrne, Kneeland,
Mason, Smith and Wanner. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Councilmember Mason made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Smith, to direct staff to work
on the caucus concept for the West Central Neighborhoods including determination of a specific
length of time for staff to work with the group to develop a set of bylaws and determination of a
designated time limit for the operation of the caucus, and directing the City Planning staff, the City
Attorney's Office, and the Neighborhood Resources Office to work with the group in developing the
caucus concept.
Councilmember Smith noted that the concept could ultimately be applied in other areas of the City
and that other neighborhoods may provide a needed perspective in looking at the concept.
Councilmember Mason stated that this is a prototype process and supported giving the caucus a two-
year life to determine if the concept will work.
Councilmembers Mason and Smith withdrew the motion, and the consensus was in favor of giving
informal direction to staff.
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Items Relating to the Adoption of the Mountain Vista Subarea Plan,
as an Element of City Plan, Including the Following Key Plan
Components: Vision and Goals, Framework Plan, Transportation,
Principles and Policies, and Implementation Recommendations.
Implementation Recommendations Include Changes to the
City of Fort Collins Structure Plan Map and Master Street Plan Map, Adopted
The following is staff s memorandum on this item.
"Financial Impact
1. Mountain Vista Subarea - Public Amenity Projects
The Implementation Recommendations of the Plan identify projects requiring public funding
including parks and trails, police services, and certain public amenities.
A separate Agenda Summary Item (Item No. 34 on this agenda) addresses costs of projects
associated with parks and trail development. The remaining list of identified projects within the
subarea requiringfinancing strategies to cover costs above what development wouldpay for include
future police substation ($200,000), branch library ($2, 000, 000), and Interstate 25 interchange
landscaping improvements for Mountain Vista Drive and East Vine Drive ($800, 000). All of these
projects listed are identified as long-term, between 10-20 years.
It appears that there will need to be substantial public investment in new infrastructure and
municipal services to make the Mountain Vista plan a reality. While developers will be expected to
finance the infrastructure improvements necessitated by their projects, and some of those
improvements such as roads will be very costly, it appears that traditional funding mechanisms like
street oversizing fees and impact fees will not be adequate to pay for all of the street improvements
and community amenities that the Plan envisions. This situation suggests that the City should
consider the full range of infrastructure financing mechanisms available to a home -rule city in
Colorado.
2. Mountain Vista Subarea - Transportation Related Projects
The total transportation cost for the Mountain Vista Subarea is $176 million. Private development
should pay approximately $110 million of the total with an identified finding gap over the current
street oversizing fees of $66 million.
Three grade separations at intersections with the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad, the
moving of an historic structure, and a new interchange at Vine Drive comprise $37 million of the
$66 million. The remaining $29 million is directly related to the build -out of the street network.
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"Executive Summary
A. Resolution 99-35 Adopting the Mountain Vista Subarea Plan, as an element of City Plan,
including the following key Plan components: Vision and Goals, Framework Plan,
Transportation, Principles and Policies, and Implementation Recommendations.
B. Resolution 99-36 Adopting an Amendment to the City of Fort Collins Structure Plan Map,
based on the future land use classifications and transportation network described on the
Mountain Vista Subarea Plan -Framework Plan Map.
C. Resolution 99-37 Adopting an Amendment to the City of Fort Collins Master Street Plan to
delete all existing streets within the subarea, and add the new street network) described in
the Mountain Vista Subarea Plan -Proposed Master Street Plan Map.
BACKGROUND:
Mountain Vista Subarea Plan
City Plan establishes the foundation for this Mountain Vista Subarea Plan. Specific City Plan
Principles and Policies (L U-4 and LU-4.5) name the Mountain Vista area as a priorityfor subarea
planning efforts. This Plan is needed to help implement City Plan by tailoring general, citywide
policies to this distinct geographic area in northeast Fort Collins.
City Plan, with its City Structure Plan map and the related Zoning Map, provided a strong head
start for the Mountain Vista Subarea Plan process. Building on the head start, the planningprocess
addressed a full range of issues including land uses, housing, transportation, utilities and capital
facilities, economic development, public safety, environment, appearance and urban design, and
open space.
This Mountain Vista Subarea Plan will be adopted as a related element of City Plan. It was
developed within the context of other existing plans as well, most notably the Master Street Plan,
the Parks and Recreation Policy Plan, and the Land Use Code. These plans and documents will be
updated with any changes resulting from the Mountain Vista Subarea Plan.
Many citizens have wondered why the City of Fort Collins would do a plan for the Mountain Vista
area when little development has occurred to date. This subarea plan for the northeast area of the
city provides an important opportunity to prepare for future neighborhoods, recreation,
transportation networks, and work and shopping destinations from the ground up -ahead ofgrowth
and before the opportunity is gone.
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City Council provided general oversight. City staff and a planning consulting team (Balloffet &
Associates, Clarion Associates, and Civitas) formed a technical team, aided by citizens' advisory
committee. Together, these groups developed this Mountain Vista Subarea Plan, along with
extensive public review.
Mountain Vista Subarea Plan - Transportation
The Mountain Vista Subarea Plan proposes future land use in the subarea. This action would 1)
ensure that thesubarea would eventually contain a transportation networksufficient to meet demand
at levels of service consistent with City plan for all modes of travel and 2) ensure that adequate
right-of—way is preserved through the development process.
The Mountain Vista Subarea Plan process began approximately one year ago. As a part of that
process, staff and consultants working on the Northeast Fort Collins Truck Route Project were
charged with developing a transportation plan for northeast Fort Collins (Mountain Vista).
Staff worked closely with the staff, consultants, technical advisory committee, citizens' advisory
committee, and the public. The primary goal of the project was to develop a transportation network
that both supported the proposed land uses and limited the impacts on existing developments
bordering the subarea.
This was an iterative process that included many land use alternatives. The land use plan went
through approximately 10 versions. As the land use plan was refined, a new iteration of street
network was built and modeled to ensure its adequacy and consistency with City Plan.
Implementation Recommendations
A key aspect of Mountain Vista Subarea Plan is how it gets implemented. The implementation
recommendations of the Plan include how best to implement the Vision & Goals, Principles &
Policies, and Framework Plan.
Several implementation strategies were considered and evaluated during the initial stages of the
planningprocess. These strategies ranged from those that were regulatory to those that emphasized
capital investments, incentives, and market measures. After considerable analysis and discussion,
City Council determined that in general, a regulatory strategy was more appropriate than public
outlays to stimulate the development market.
The implementation recommendations include a variety of changes in ordinances, standards and
requirements, policies, and capital improvement programs that need to be considered to make the
Mountain Vista Subarea Plan a reality. These actions draw on a diagnosis of the City's recently
adopted Land Use Code, a review of City Plan, examination ofCitypolicies regarding infrastructure
improvements and financing, and consultation with City staff.
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The Implementation Recommendations also include a detailed listing ofprojects and improvements
needed to support development of the area, including transportation improvements, parks and trails,
natural areas, stormwater drainage, police services, and public amenities.
The following implementation actions are included with Plan adoption:
Changes to the City Structure Plan Map:
In adopting the Mountain Vista Subarea Plan, as an official element of City Plan, specific
amendments need to be made to the City Structure Plan Map. In summary the changes are as
follows:
Adjusting the size and locations of land use classifications forLow Density and Medium Density
Mixed -Use Neighborhoods, Employment, Industrial, Community Commercial.
Adding a communitypark and new trail corridors to the Public Open Lands classification.
Realigning the location of the enhanced travel corridor and high frequency transit route.
Changes to the Master Street Plan:
Timberline Road (County Road 9E) will be expanded to four lanes and will travel to the north
then northeast to align with Mountain Vista Drive. An underpass will be built at Timberline
Road and the Burlington Northern — Santa Fe Railroad.
Lemay Avenue will be expanded to a four -lane arterial. Lemay Avenue's alignment remains
consistent with the current Master Street Plan (1199). A new arterial to arterial intersection
(Vine and Lemay) will be built at the junction of the new Lemay Avenue and the realigned Vine
Drive. An underpass will be built at Lemay Avenue and the Burlington Northern — Santa Fe
Railroad.
Mountain Vista Drive will be expanded to a four -lane arterial from the interchange at I-25 and
travel west and southwest to align with Timberline Road. An underpass will be built at Mountain
Vista Drive and the Burlington Northern — Santa Fe Railroad.
A new interchange will be constructed at Vine Drive and I-25.
County Road 9E (Timberline Road) from Mountain Vista Drive north will be expanded to minor
arterial status and align with the enhanced travel corridor along the extended alignment of
Conifer Street.
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Conifer Street will be constructed as an enhanced travel corridor. It will include two automobile
travel lanes, one bi-directional transit lane, attached bike lanes, and detached sidewalks. The
corridor will provide enhanced porosity into neighborhoods for bicyclists and pedestrians.
County Road 11 is recommended to be a minor arterial street extending north from Vine Drive
to State Highway 1.
The I-25 Frontage Road will be expanded to a two-lane collector street, with appropriate turn
lanes at development access points and at cross -streets. The frontage road is recommended to
be realigned to the west at its intersection with Vine Drive and Mountain Vista Drive. The
frontage road will be extended north from Vine Drive to Mountain Vista Drive.
A new minor arterial is recommended between Vine Drive and Mountain Vista Drive east of the
Burlington Northern — Santa Fe Railroad.
Other collector streets are presumed to be two-lane streets with turn lanes as appropriate at
intersections with minor arterial and other collector streets. The street alignments shown on the
plan are to indicate the approximate location of collector and the exact locations of arterial
streets. The collector will be designed to fit the character of the neighborhood, the projected
impact of the proposed travel behavior, and any existing conditions that will affect the
construction of the roadway. More detailed evaluation will be required as specific development
areas are designed. Street cross -sections can be selected at that time based on Fort Collins
standards and decisions about inclusion of on street parking on particular streets.
Project Schedule
Phase 1: Analysis, Planning, and Design (January - September, 1998)
During this phase, information was collected and analyzed. Then, with the assistance of the
advisory committee, the technical team developed a list of issues that influenced development of the
Plan. The Plan was developed in a sequence of steps from general to specific, with a Vision and
Goals leading to Framework Plan map alternatives and written Principles and Policies.
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Phase l: Implementation Recommendations (September, 1998 - February, 1999)
During this phase ofthe planning process, the technical team, consultants, and direction from City
Council, identified strategies for implementing the Plan. Short-term measures center on changes
and enhancements to existing Plans and Documents.
Longer -term implementation opportunities include measures to assist trail/park acquisition and
improvements, and other public amenities. As development occurs over time, City Council is
encouraged to consider a variety of suggested funding mechanisms to ensure that adequate
infrastructure accompanies the growth of Fort Collins.
Citizen Participation
The City is committed to aparticipatoryplanningprocess. Citizens were invaluable in contributing
to the success of this Plan. Many people made suggestions, offered input and raised concerns that
significantly changed each initial component of this Plan.
The public involvement process for the Mountain Vista Subarea Plan was designed to be
comprehensive and interactive. A variety ofcommunications techniques were used to maintain two-
way dialogue with key stakeholders."
City Manager Fischbach noted that this is a three-part agenda item.
Pete Wray, City Planner, gave a brief staff presentation regarding the key elements of the plan for
the northeast area of the City, and noted that Council is being asked to approve changes to the City
Structure Plan map, the Master Street Plan, and the Parks and Recreation Policy Plan. He stated that
zoning changes will be brought forward for discussion on April 20.
Bridgit Schmidt, Mountain Vista citizen's advisory committee, spoke regarding the work on the Plan
and noted committee concerns regarding having sufficient infrastructure in place for implementation,
two-story building height, and multimodal design for Conifer Street. She stated that committee
members are interested in having additional input during implementation and the transition.
Mike Buderus, Mountain Vista citizen's advisory committee, spoke regarding the infrastructure as
a key element in implementation.
Councilmember Byrne spoke regarding the funding gap for infrastructure development and asked
how the Plan addresses the funding gap. Wray stated that staff has identified a range of financing
options. John Daggett, Senior Transportation Engineer, spoke regarding the funding gap for
transportation projects and possible funding mechanisms for infrastructure improvements. Greg
Byrne, CPES Director, noted that some recent arterial development has been successful due to
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voluntary cooperation from property owners and spoke regarding various mechanisms that are under
discussion.
Councilmember Byrne asked about allowing development to continue when the infrastructure that
is in place is inadequate and if there are criteria in place to determine whether the development
should be allowed to continue. Joe Frank, Director of Advance Planning, stated that the Land Use
Code requires adequate public facilities for a development to proceed.
Councilmember Smith asked for clarification regarding Vine Drive and levels of service for various
intersections. City Manager Fischbach noted that an error in Exhibit A of the Plan regarding the
realignment of Vine Drive needs to be corrected.
Councilmember Bertschy made amotion, secondedby Councilmember Wanner, to adopt Resolution
99-35.
Councilmember Kneeland spoke regarding Growth Management Committee work on the Plan.
Councilmember Byrne thanked those who worked on the Plan and noted that the results of these
planning efforts will be seen over a period of years.
Councilmember Bertschy thanked the committee and staff for their work on the project and spoke
regarding the need to plan for growth.
The vote on the motion was as follows: Yeas: Councilmembers Azari, Bertschy, Byrne, Kneeland,
Mason, Smith and Wanner. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Councilmember Mason made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Wanner, to adopt Resolution
99-36. The vote on the motion was as follows: Yeas: Councilmembers Azari, Bertschy, Byrne,
Kneeland, Mason, Smith and Wanner. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Councilmember Wanner made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Mason, to adopt Resolution
99-37.
Councilmember Bertschy spoke regarding the issue of the amount of land ownership by Anheuser-
Busch in the area and the need to review the Urban Growth Area boundary and transportation
corridor to the north.
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Mayor Azari spoke regarding inadequate infrastructure in the north and noted that the Council is
looking at mechanisms to seed development in that area. She spoke regarding the efforts of the
Council to plan for growth.
The vote on Councilmember Warmer's motion was as follows: Yeas: Councilmembers Azari,
Bertschy, Byrne, Kneeland, Mason, Smith and Warner. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Resolution 99-38
Updating the Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
to Include Recently Adopted Subarea Plan Recommendations, Adopted
The following is staff s memorandum on this item.
"Financial Impact
Chapter Five of the Parks and Recreation Policy Plan addresses funding and implementation
strategies. Although the Plan recommends funding for all projects, it does not identify specific
funding sources other than those currently in place. The updated plan includes six new
neighborhood parks, one new community park and several more miles of new trails. All of these new
items are identified in Table 5.1 (Attachment A). The neighborhood and community parks will be
funded by parkland fees, except for one neighborhood park that will require an alternative funding
source. New trails will be funded from Conservation Trust Fund dollars.
Executive Summary
This Resolution approves and adopts an update to the Parks and Recreation Policy Plan as an
element ofthe City's Comprehensive Plan. The updated Policy Plan establishes new principles and
policies for parks and recreation facilities including land acquisition and development, trail
locations and other open land needs for the City for the next eight years. The changes proposed
include the recommendations of the following, recently adopted, subarea plans: Mountain Vista
Subarea Plan (MVSA), Fossil Creek Reservoir Area Plan (FCRA), and the West Central
Neighborhoods Plan (WCNA).
The updated Policy Plan complements and supports the Natural Areas Policy Plan, the City's
Transportation Plan, Stormwater Utilities Master Plans and City Plan. There was extensivepublic
outreach and review with each subarea plan. All issues concerning parks, trails and recreational
needs were evaluated and reviewed. Staff and several Advisory Boards participated in the review
of all three subarea plans. The Parks and Recreation Board reviewed and recommended adoption
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of the update to the Policy Plan on February 24, 1999. In addition, the Natural Resources Board
and the Planning and Zoning Board reviewed and recommended adoption ofthe update to the Policy
Plan.
Attached to this item for reference are the chapters of each Subarea Plan section that pertain to
Opens Lands, Parks and Trails (Attachments B through D). The sections attached contain the
Principles and Policies addressing Open Lands, Parks and Trails that were adopted by City
Council. These adopted Principles and Policies will be referenced as amendments to the adopted
Parks and Recreation Policy Plan, December 1996. In addition Table 3. ] (AttachmentE) and Table
5.1 (Attachment A) are revised, and reflect the changes recommended by each subarea plan.
HISTORY
The Parks and Recreation Policy Plan, adopted in December 1996, Resolution 96-147 is an element
ofthe City of Fort Collins' Comprehensive Plan. The Plan was developed in conjunction with City
Plan and established goals and policies to guide the future locations ofparks, trails and recreational
facilities and programs. In addition, the Policy Plan provides guidance as to the size, design and
capacity of these and other community facilities.
Community input was solicited at all stages ofthe 1996 Policy Plan and captured the community's
vision for future parks and recreational services for the next ten years. Since the Plan's adoption,
three new subarea plans have been adopted as revisions to City Plan. This update addresses
recommendations for future neighborhood and communityparks, and trail needs as defined in the
new subarea plans.
S UMMAR Y RE COMMENDA TIONS
The update recommends that six additional neighborhood parks be acquired and developed;
including two additional parks in the Mountain Vista Subarea Plan, two new parks in the West
Central Neighborhoods Plan, and two additional parks in the Fossil Creek Reservoir Area. The
update also recommends that one new community park be acquired and developed in the Fossil
Creek Reservoir Area. Several additional miles of trail are identified for acquisition and
development in the update, as per the subarea plans.
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March 16, 1999
Mountain Vista Subarea Plan:
The current Policy Plan includes a new community park to serve the northeast region of the
community and two neighborhood parks. The update recommends an additional two new
neighborhood parks be acquired and developed as per the MVSA Plan and defines a preferred
location for the communitypark. Several new trail connections within the subarea are also included
in the update. A new connection to the Poudre River trail is also included. All of these new parks
and trails can be acquired and developed with current funding sources.
West Central Neighborhoods Plan:
Two new park sites are identified in the update to serve this area of the City. One is located in the
Spring Creek corridor and should be acquired and developed with Parkland Funds. The second
park site is located north of Bennett School. The Bennett site exceeds theparkland need for this area
but is an important element of the WCNP. Because this site is located in an area that already is
served by existing parks, this site should be acquired and developed with alternative funds, not the
Parkland Fund.
Fossil Creek Reservoir Area Plan:
Several park and trail changes are recommended for this area of the community. The proposed
changes reflect the recent addition of this area within the new Urban Growth Area Boundary. Two
additional neighborhood parks are proposed for acquisition and development in the FCRA to meet
futurepopulation needs. One neighborhood park was identified in the current Policy Plan but has
been relocated within the subarea. Anew community park is also proposed for this area. An
additional trail connection on the north side of Fossil Creek Reservoir is recommended. These
parks and trails can be acquired and developed with the current funding sources.
In addition, the Parks and Recreation Policy Plan - Master Plan has been revised to reflect these
proposed changes (Attachment G). The Master Plan reflects proposed new Community Parks,
Neighborhood Parks and future Trail locations. Minor graphic revisions and corrections are also
shown on the revised Master Plan. Chapter Five, Implementation, Table 5.1 has been revised to
reflect the proposed recommendations and changes that have occurred over the last two years. "
City Manager Fischbach gave a brief introduction of the item.
Councilmember Kneeland made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Bertschy, to adopt
Resolution 99-38. The vote on the motion was as follows: Yeas: Councilmembers Azari, Bertschy,
Byrne, Kneeland, Mason, Smith and Wanner. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
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Resolution 99-28
Directing Staff to Proceed to Negotiate a Mutually
Agreeable Transfer of Properties Between the City,
Colorado State University and the Colorado State University
Research Foundation for the Site of a Community Horticulture Center, Adopted
The following is staff s memorandum on this item.
"Financial Impact
The City's Building Community Choices capital improvement program includes an allocation of
funds in the amount of $2, 000, 000 (1996 dollars) for the development of a Community Horticulture
Center. The first step in developing the Center will be to select and acquire an appropriate site.
Over the past year, staff has worked to identify a site through an RFP process, and has narrowed
the possible sites to three - Lee Martinez Park, the Resource Recovery Farm and a site located along
Spring Creek and Centre Avenue.
"Executive Summary
In December 1998, Council directed staff to work with Colorado State University to determine ifa
partnership could be developed for a Community Horticulture Center. Staffand CSU, together with
Colorado State University Research Foundation ("CSURF') have been working toward that goal
by negotiating a possible exchange ofproperties. The exchange involves a parcel currently owned
by CSURF and the City -owned High School Park.
Staffhas reviewed with the Council thegeneral parameters ofa proposed exchange ofproperty with
CSU/CSURF This resolution directs staff to continue negotiating with CSU and CSURF, and to
return to Council for additional formal action when appropriate agreements have been developed
between the City and CSU/CSURF. Staff expects that these negotiations can proceed promptly, and
hopes to complete them in the nearfuture. Staffseeks to proceed on a schedule that would permit
the proposal to be reviewed by the State Board ofAgriculture in May for the approvals which CSU
requires. Following that approval, staff expects to return to Council with an IGA for its
consideration."
Councilmember Bertschy withdrew from this item because of a potential conflict of interest.
("Secretary's Note: Councilmember Bertschy left the room at this point.)
City Manager Fischbach gave a brief presentation regarding the agenda item.
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Councilmember Mason made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Wanner, to adopt Resolution
99-28.
Councilmember Byme spoke regarding previous discussions concerning the item and the opportunity
to partner with CSU.
Councilmember Kneeland recognized Jim Clark for his efforts regarding the project.
The vote on Councilmember Mason's motion was as follows: Councilmembers Azari, Byme,
Kneeland, Mason, Smith and Wanner. Nays: None. (Councilmember Bertschy withdrawn)
THE MOTION CARRIED.
(**Secretary's Note: Councilmember Bertschy returned to the meeting at this point.)
Other Business
Resolution 99-39
Urging Voter Support for the Passage of
a Citizen -Initiated Ordinance Adopting
a Sales and Use Tax for Transportation Operations
City Manager Fischbach stated that the Resolution would support passage of the transportation tax
initiative on the April ballot.
Councilmember Wanner made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Smith, to adopt Resolution
99-39 supporting the transportation tax ballot measure.
Councilmember Kneeland stated that a diverse citizen committee worked on transportation funding
issues for more than a year.
Councilmember Byrne spoke regarding Council's studyof the transportation funding issue and spoke
in support of an effective transit system.
Councilmember Smith spoke concerning the placement of the measure on the ballot and encouraged
the voters to consider the question of what are the alternatives if this measure is not approved.
Councilmembcr Mason noted that the intent of this initiative is to help improve air quality by
reducing vehicle miles traveled and that this is an alternative to displacing homes and businesses by
widening streets.
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Councilmember Bertschy stated that frequency and convenience improve bus ridership.
Mayor Azari spoke regarding the placement of the measure on the ballot and the decision that is
before the voters regarding building a first class, full service city.
The vote on Councilmember Warner's motion was as follows: Councilmembers Azari, Bertschy,
Byme, Kneeland, Mason, Smith and Wanner. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Resolution 99-40
Postponing Consideration of the
Proposed Location of the Northeast Truck Route
Mayor Azari stated that the Resolution deals with the postponement of consideration ofthe proposed
location of the northeast truck route.
Councilmember Bertschy made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Smith, to adopt Resolution
99-40 as amended.
Councilmember Byrne asked for clarification regarding the intent of the Resolution.
Councilmember Smith noted that the language in the Resolution would not encourage property
owners along Jefferson Street to participate in the discussion and favored language that would
include in the process those affected by the relocation, including the Jefferson Street business
owners. City Manager Fischbach noted that the intent was not to exclude anyone from the process.
Councilmember Smith suggested language that would include property owners along the affected
section of Jefferson Street.
Councilmember Bertschy noted that action is being postponed to continue the discussion with those
who will potentially be impacted.
Councilmember Smith spoke regarding the Study Session on this issue and supported an interactive
outreach on the issue. He noted that the work on the project will take place over many years and that
there is a need to work closely with those who will be directly affected.
Councilmember Mason stated that the Resolution is removing Owl Canyon as an option for future
discussion and that he will support the Resolution because additional time is needed to work on the
issue.
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Councilmember Byrne stated that he would have preferred that the Council act on the truck route at
this meeting because of this group's familiarity with the issue.
Councilmember Wanner noted that the Resolution eliminates the Owl Canyon option and that there
is tacit approval of removing the option of retaining the Riverside -Jefferson alignment.
Councilmember Smith recognized the work that has been done concerning the issue and noted the
technical information that has been gathered. He spoke regarding the need to address some of the
neighborhood fears regarding the issue.
Mayor Azari stated that the issue was not ready to be brought forward to the Council because of the
need to further explore the community impacts and benefits.
The vote on Councilmember Bertschy's motion was as follows: Councilmembers Azari, Bertschy,
Byrne, Kneeland, Mason, Smith and Wanner. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Resolution 99-41
Authorizing the Provision of Telephone and Computer
Services to the Fort Collins Housing Authority, Adopted
The following is staffs memorandum on this item.
"Executive Summary
Resolution 99-41 would allow the City to provide communication services for the Fort Collins
Housing Authority, payfor those services upftont, and then bill the Fort Collins Housing Authority
for reimbursement of those same services.
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BACKGROUND:
In 1998 City staff was asked to evaluate the various communication systems tools utilized at the Fort
Collins Housing Authority (FCHA). During that evaluation it was quickly determined that the
FCHA personal computers and voicemail system are not Year 2000 (Y2K) compliant. In addition,
the FCHA Local Area Network requires a major overhaul in order to adequately meet staff needs.
Finally, investigation oftheirphone system revealed that it did not support their voice, fax, and data
calls. To address customer complaints regarding the FCHA phone system, more phone lines need
to be added. Unfortunately, the currentphone system cannot support the level ofexpansion needed
to meet staff and customer needs.
In order to make all systems Y2K compliant, and meet both customer and staff needs, City staff has
proposed to provide City communication services for the FCHA. This means that the FCHA would
be using the City's phone system, voicemail system and e-mail system, and would be receiving
maintenance services or support for those systems from City staff. In addition, the City will upgrade
the FCHApersonal computers so that they are Y2K complaint and connect their Local Area Network
to the City's. By using the City's CITEL communication systems, the FCHA would be able to take
advantage of the City's low pricing structure for those services, lower calling plan rates, vendors'
discount pricing for equipment, and low maintenance rates. More importantly, this plan would
allow the FCHA to meet current staffand customer communication needs as well as provide growth
for their future needs."
Consistent with the City's telecommunication practices, all costs to upgrade the communication
systems or tools at FCHA would be paid up front by the City through its CITEL program. The
program would then bill the customer, which in this case would be FCHA, for those costs to the
provider. On -going monthly costs would be addressed in the same manner: CITEL would pay the
bills up front, and then bill FCHA for those costs.
City Manager Fischbach stated that the Resolution would authorize the provision of telephone and
computer services to the Housing Authority.
Councilmember Wanner made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Mason, to adopt Resolution
99-41. The vote on the motion was as follows: Councilmembers Azari, Bertschy, Byrne, Kneeland,
Mason, Smith and Wanner. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
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The meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m.
ATTEST:
16L * �� hCity Clerk I %
(.
Adjournment
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March 16, 1999