HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES-09/18/2001-RegularSeptember 18, 2001
Is
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, September 18,
2001, 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: Bertschy, Hamrick, Kastein, Martinez, Tharp, Wanner
and Weitkunat.
Staff Members Present: Fischbach, Krajicek, Roy.
Mayor Martinez requested a moment of silence to reflect upon the September 11, 2001 tragedies.
Citizen Participation
Steve Sutter, Employment Group of the Commission on Disability, spoke regarding the Mayor's
Award and program to be presented on October 26.
Kelly Ohlson, 2040 Bennington Circle, commented regarding the I-25 Corridor Plan and stated that
• regional cooperation rather than regional planning should be the goal. He stated that the Corridor
Plan is flawed and asked Council to vote against it.
Citizen Participation Follow-up
Councilmember Tharp spoke regarding the Commission on Disability awards.
Mayor Martinez spoke regarding the I-25 Corridor Plan and took exception to Mr. Ohlson's
statements regarding the Plan.
Agenda Review
City Manager Fischbach reported that item #17 First Reading of Ordinance No. 148, 2001,
Amending Chapter 7 of the City Code Relating to Election Campaigns had been withdrawn from
the agenda and would be forwarded to the Governance Committee for discussion and
recommendation.
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September 18, 2001
CONSENT CALENDAR
Second Reading of Ordinance No. 125, 2001, Authorizing the Sale of 1.032 Acres of
Westfield Park to Pool of Dreams. Ltd. and Appropriating the Proceeds of Such Sale as
Unanticipated Revenue in the Neighborhood Parkland Fund.
Ordinance No. 125, 2001, which was unanimously adopted on First Reading on August 21,
2001, authorizes the sale of 1.032 Acres of Westfield Park property and appropriating the
$120,000 from the sale to the Neighborhood Parkland Fund.
8. Items Relating to the Lease Financing Agreement for the Public Safety and Recreational
Improvements.
A. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 130, 2001 Authorizing the City to Execute a Deed
and Agreements Between the City of Fort Collins, the Fort Collins Capital Leasing
Corporation, and Zions National Bank for the Public Safety and Recreation
Improvement Projects
This Ordinance, which was unanimously adopted on First Reading on August 21, 2001,
authorizes the City to execute deeds and agreements to provide funds to acquire a facility for
the Police Department and to construct a new clubhouse at the Collindale Golf Course and
to make additional Golf Course improvements. The Police Department and Golf Fund
projects will be financed through the use of a non-profit corporation, the Fort Collins Capital
Leasing Corporation. This is similar to the financing used for the parking structure and City
office building. Through an assignment of lease payments, the City will transfer the
properties to the Fort Collins Leasing Corporation. The Corporation will then lease the
properties back to the City for a term of 20-years Upon payment in full of the Certificates
of Participation, the site lease will be terminated.
The average life of the lease transaction is expected to be between thirteen and fifteen years.
The City expects to pay interest on the lease semi-annually, at a rate of 4.70% for the first
10 years at which time the rate will be reset every five years based upon a lending index.
Principal payments will be made annually.
B. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 141, 2001, Appropriating Proceeds in the Golf
Enterprise Fund from the Lease Financing of Golf Course Improvements, Including
the Replacement of the Collindale Golf Course Clubhouse.
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September 18, 2001
• This Ordinance appropriates $2,830,000 in the Golf Fund. The funds will be used to
construct a new Collindale Golf Course Clubhouse and make additional golf course
improvements and pay for the costs associated with the lease financing.
C. Second Reading of Ordinance 142, 2001, Appropriating Unanticipated Revenue in
the Capital Projects Fund to be Used for the Purchase of a Police Facility
Ordinance No. 142, 2001, which was unanimously adopted on September 4, 2001,
appropriates $890,000 in the Capital Projects Fund for the acquisition and improvements
for a Police facility and to pay for the costs associated with the lease financing.
9. Second Readin¢ of Ordinance No 132 2001 Amending Sections 2 462 and 2 569 of the
City Code with Regard to the Appointment of Alternate Members of the Downtown
Development Authority and the Ethics Review Board
Ordinance No. 132, 2001, which was unanimously adopted on First Reading on August 21,
2001, revises two sections of the City Code to clarify the Council's authority to appoint an
alternate member to the Downtown Development Authority Board of Directors and the
Ethics Review Board. These alternate members would have all of the same duties and
privileges as a regular member when the regular member is unavailable.
• 10. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 139 2001 Appropriating Unanticipated Revenue in the
Building Community Choices Capital Projects Fund Mason Street Transportation Corridor
Project, Prior Year Reserves in the Transportation Services Fund and Authorizing the
Transfer ofAppropnations to Be Used for Design and Initial Construction of Improvements
to the Mason Street Transportation Corridor Project South of Harmony Road to the Future
Fossil Creek Trail.
The City has received a funding letter from Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT)
that will allow for work to proceed on the design and initial construction for the bicycle and
pedestrian trail on the Mason Street Transportation Corridor, south of Harmony Road to the
future Fossil Creek regional trail. This will be the first design and construction phase for the
Mason Street Corridor's bicycle and pedestrian system. Ordinance No. 139, 2001, was
unanimously adopted on First Reading on September 4, 2001.
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September 18, 2001
11. Second Readina of Ordinance No. 143, 2001, Authorizing the Conveyance of 157.09 Acres
of Land on the Former Rockwell Ranch to the United States Forest Service in Exchange for
the Payment of $353,500, as Part of a Three -Way Exchange Between the City, the Forest
Service, and the Winter Park Recreation Association.
Staff negotiated with the US Forest Service (USFS) to exchange the Rockwell properties
(owned by the City) for the land under and around the City's Joe Wright Reservoir (owned
by the USFS). Ordinance No. 143, 2001, was unanimously adopted on First Reading on
September 4, 2001.
12. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 144, 2001, Granting a Storm Drainage Easement Across
the City's Drake Water Reclamation Property Managed by the Natural Resources
Department as Part of the Prospect Ponds Natural Area to Midpoint Development, LLC.
This Ordinance, which was unanimously adopted on First Reading on September 4, 2001,
grants the easements across City property (including a permanent easement and a temporary
construction easement) for the storm drainage flows will provide for an improvement of the
drainage system over what was done with the original platting of the Prospect Industrial
Park.
13. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 145, 2001, Amending Section 2-167 of the City Code
Relating to Membership of the Commission on the Status of Women.
Ordinance No. 145, 2001, which was unanimously adopted on First Reading on September
4, 2001, reduces the membership of the Commission effective September 28, 2001.
14. Items Relating to the Mulberry Street (SH14) Bicycle/Pedestrian Bridge Project.
A. Resolution 2001-110 Authorizing the Mayor to Enter into a Contract with the
Colorado Department of Transportation for Partial Construction Funding of the
Mulberry Street Bicycle/Pedestrian Bridge Project.
B. First Reading of Ordinance No. 140, 2001, Appropriating Unanticipated Revenue
and Prior Year Reserves in the Transportation Services Fund to be Used to Complete
Construction of a Bicycle/Pedestrian Bridge Over the Poudre River, Completing the
Bicycle/Pedestrian Connection from Riverside to Lemay Along State Highway 14.
September 18, 2001
• The City has received a funding letter from Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT)
allowing for additional funding to be added to the State Highway 14 and Lemay Avenue
Intersection project. The bridge will be constructed over the Poudre River on the south side
of the Mulberry Street (SH14) vehicular bridge and the sidewalk will be extended from
Lemay to Riverside.
15. First Reading of Ordinance No. 146, Authorizing a Declaration of Covenants Conditions
and Restrictions for a 478.5 Acre Portion of Long View Farm Open Space
"Ute Farm" and "One Putt" are part of the Long View Farm Open Space between Loveland
and Fort Collins. The properties were purchased in 1997 by Larimer County, the City of
Loveland, and the City of Fort Collins. The property is managed by Larimer County,
pursuant to an intergovernmental agreement between the owning entities that was signed in
1997. Larimer County has applied for, and Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund (GOCO)
has awarded, a grant to assist in the purchase of the property. The proceeds of the grant will
be shared by the owning entities. GOCO requires that certain restrictions be agreed to by
landowners in order to protect the conservation values of the property for which a grant has
been awarded. This Ordinance authorizes the execution of a Declaration of Covenants,
Conditions and Restrictions on the Ute Farm/One Putt property. The Declaration establishes
the Legacy Land Trust (formerly named the Larimer Land Trust) as monitor and enforcer
• of the Declaration, and limits the use of the property in any manner not consistent with and
protective of the conservation values existing on the property. GOCO will not release the
grant funds without this signed Declaration.
Long View Farm Open Space is currently managed as agricultural land. The management
plan for the property includes plans for recreational access (a bike/pedestrian trail) and
interpretive features to be added to the site in the future.
16. First Reading of Ordinance No 147 2001 Authorizing the Acquisition by Eminent Domain
Proceedings of Certain Lands for the Glenmoor Detention Pond in the Canal Importation
Basin.
The proposed Glenmoor Detention Pond is a component of the Canal Importation Basin
Master Drainage Plan, recently adopted by City Council (Ordinance No. 121, 2001). The
property lies along the Plum Channel north of West Elizabeth and just to the east of Taft Hill
Road and is approximately 4.92 acres in size. This detention pond will provide needed
volume to slow flood flows and protect downstream properties from flooding. Although
construction of the pond is not the highest priority in the basin, the property was already in
the City's land development process for approval of 40 residential units. In order to ensure
the property would be available to construct the pond, the City entered into negotiations with
the property owner to purchase the land. The property owner does not object to selling the
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September 18, 2001
property to the City, however, the City and the property owner have been unable to reach
agreement on the fair market value of the property. Appraisals by both the City and the
owner have been completed. Both the City and the property owner have agreed eminent
domain proceedings are the next logical step to allow the court to determine fair market
value.
17. First Reading of Ordinance No. 148, 2001, Amending Chanter 7 of the Citv Code Relating
to Election Campaigns.
This Ordinance amends Article V of Chapter 7 of the City Code relating to campaign
practices in local elections. The majority of the changes proposed are intended to provide
clarification of existing provisions.
18. Resolution 2001-121 Authoriziniz the Lease of a Portion of the City -Owned Property at 250
North Mason Street, Fort Collins. Colorado to Texas. New Mexico & Oklahoma Coaches.
Inc. ("TNM&O").
Adoption of this Resolution will permit the Cityto enter into a two-year lease with TNM&O
for rental of space at the Downtown Transit Center. This action will provide for over -the -
road coaches from TNM&O, Greyhound, and Powder River (TNM&O has operating
agreements with Greyhound and Powder River) to operate from one central multi -modal
facility. Since 1998, City staff has been working on developing a facility where the public
could easily access over -the -road buses and various City transportation modes.
19. Routine Easements.
A. Easement for construction and maintenance of public utilities from Eileen
McInerney, to install a transformer to underground existing overhead electric system,
located at 326 East Plum. Monetary consideration: $250. Staff: Patti Teraoka.
B. Easement for construction and maintenance of public utilities from Rhythms, LLC,
to install electric facilities to upgrade electric service, located at 334 East Mountain.
Monetary consideration: $10. Staff: Patti Teraoka.
Ordinances on Second Reading were read by title by City Clerk Krajicek.
Second Reading of Ordinance No. 125, 2001, Authorizing the Sale of 1.032 Acres of
Westfield Park to Pool of Dreams. Ltd. and Appropriating the Proceeds of Such Sale as
Unanticipated Revenue in the Neighborhood Parkland Fund.
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September 18, 2001
. 8. Items Relating to the Lease Financing Agreement for the Public Safety and Recreational
Improvements.
A. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 130, 2001 Authorizing the City to Execute a Deed
and Agreements Between the City of Fort Collins, the Fort Collins Capital Leasing
Corporation, and Zions National Bank for the Public Safety and Recreation
Improvement Projects
B. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 141, 2001, Appropriating Proceeds in the Golf
Enterprise Fund from the Lease Financing of Golf Course Improvements, Including
the Replacement of the Collindale Golf Course Clubhouse.
C. Second Reading of Ordinance 142, 2001, Appropriating Unanticipated Revenue in
the Capital Projects Fund to be Used for the Purchase of a Police Facility.
9. Second Reading of Ordinance No 132 2001 Amending Sections 2 462 and 2 569 of the
City Code with Regard to the Appointment of Alternate Members of the Downtown
Development Authority and the Ethics Review Board
10. Second Reading of Ordinance No 139 2001 Appropriating Unanticipated Revenue in the
• Building Community Choices Canital Projects Fund Mason Street Transportation Corridor
Proiect, Prior Year Reserves in the Transportation Services Fund and Authorizing the
Transfer of AMrol nations to Be Used for Design and Initial Construction of Improvements
to the Mason Street Transportation Corridor Project South of Harmony Road to the Future
Fossil Creek Trail.
11. Second Reading of Ordinance No 143 2001 Authorizing the Conveyance of 157.09 Acres
of Land on the Former Rockwell Ranch to the United States Forest Service in Exchange for
the Payment of $353,500 as Part of a Three -Way Exchange Between the City, the Forest
Service, and the Winter Park Recreation Association
12. Second Reading of Ordinance No 144 2001 Granting a Storm Drainage Easement Across
the City's Drake Water Reclamation Property Managed by the Natural Resources
Department as Part of the Prospect Ponds Natural Area to Midpoint Development LLC
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September 18, 2001
13. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 145, 2001, Amending Section 2-167 of the City Code
Relating to Membership of the Commission on the Status of Women.
24. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 136, 2001, Authorizing the Conveyance ofNon-exclusive
Easement Interests for the Construction of a Sixteen Inch Water Line by the Fort
Collins —Loveland Water District on Portions of Coyote Ridge Natural Area, McKee Farm
Open Space, and Long View Farm Natural Area.
Ordinances on First Reading were read by title by City Clerk Krajicek.
14. Items Relating to the Mulberry Street (SH14) Bicycle/Pedestrian Bridge Project.
B. First Reading of Ordinance No. 140, 2001, Appropriating Unanticipated Revenue
and Prior Year Reserves in the Transportation Services Fund to be Used to Complete
Construction of a Bicycle/Pedestrian Bridge Over the Poudre River, Completing the
Bicycle/Pedestrian Connection from Riverside to Lemay Along State Highway 14.
15. First Reading of Ordinance No. 146, Authorizing a Declaration of Covenants. Conditions
and Restrictions for a 478.5 Acre Portion of Long View Farm Onen Space.
16. First Reading of Ordinance No. 147, 2001, Authorizingthe a Acquisition by Eminent Domain
Proceedings of Certain Lands for the Glenmoor Detention Pond in the Canal Importation
Basin.
25. First Reading of Ordinance No. 149, 2001, Authorizing the Conveyance of Non-exclusive
Easement Interests for the Construction of a Thirty-six Inch Water Line by the Fort Collins -
Loveland Water District on a Portion of the Cathy Fromme Prairie Natural Area.
Councilmember Tharp 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 Bertschy, Hamrick, Kastein, Martinez, Tharp, Wanner and Weitkunat. Nays:
None.
THE MOTION CARRIED
LSS
September 18, 2001
. Consent Calendar Follow-up
Councilmember Tharp commented regarding item # 18 Resolution 2001-121 Authorizing the Lease
of a Portion of the City -Owned Property at 250 North Mason Street, Fort Collins, Colorado to
Texas, New Mexico & Oklahoma Coaches, Inc. ("TNM&O').
Councilmember Reports
Councilmember Wanner reported on Growth Management Committee discussions regarding two
rezonings, the northern Colorado truck mobility study, and mechanisms for funding of affordable
housing.
Councilmember Tharp reported on Legislative Review Committee discussions regarding proposed
state legislation, transportation funding, and redistricting.
Councihnember Kastein reported on the North Front Range Transportation and Air Quality Planning
Council (MPO) discussions regarding SmartTrips, emissions screening of vehicles on the road, an
application to the Colorado Heritage Planning Council for a grant to develop transportation and land
use models, a contract to house MPO staff, a Rural Transportation Authority, and state and local
funding.
• Discussion and Public Hearing on the 2002 and 2003
Recommended Biennial Budget and on Proposed 2002 Changes
to Transfort Routes and the Southside Shuttle.
The following is staffs memorandum on this item.
"Executive Summary
This is the first official Public Hearing on the City Manager's 2002 and 2003 Recommended
Biennial Budget for the City of Fort Collins. A second Public Hearing is scheduled for October 2,
2001.
In accordance with requirements of the U.S. Department of Transportation as set forth in 49 USC
Chapter 53, the City of Fort Collins will hold a public hearing to discuss proposed changes in 2002
to Routes 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 14 and the Southside Shuttle which are in the Transfort Strategic
Operating Plan.
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September 18, 2001
BACKGROUND:
The decision of what services to fund, and to what level, is a very difficult one. A common
misconception is that there is flexibility to spend or reallocate the total City budget to those areas
where there is a need. In fact, a large portion of the budget appropriation is legally restricted and
the expenditures can only be used for specific purposes, such as utilityfees and related expenses.
Here is how that breaks out using the 2002 recommended budget of $438.4 million.
Utility Services $133.3 million
Dedicated Capital Monies (Building Community Choices, etc.) $ 22.6 million
Debt Service $ 6.1 million
Dedicated Revenue/Expenditures (Recreation, etc) $ 39.7 million
Internal Service $ 1.5 million
Transfer of FundslExpenditures within the City $145.6 million
When these are totaled ($348.8 million) and subtracted from the total City budget of$438.4 million,
the balance remaining of $89.6 million is what could be called "flexible "for spending purposes.
This $89.6 million is proposed for expenditure in 2002 as follows:
Poudre Fire Authorityper Revenue Allocation Formula $ 12.6 million
Police Services $ 22.1 million
Subsidy to operate transit, recreation, cultural, cemeteries,
transportation services, and capital projects $ 18.4 million
Park and trail maintenance, library, building inspection and
zoning, development review and planning, engineering, natural
resources, facility operation and maintenance, and all other
services that support operations $ 36.5 million
In reality, any flexibility to add a new service or to enhance an existing service is to decrease or stop
providing a service funded by the $89.6 million 'Wexible " monies or to fund from revenue growth.
To decrease or stop an existing service is difficult when the service was initiated and is being
provided based on the perceived, as well as requested needs, from the residents of the community.
To help in planning the effective and efficient allocation ofresources to meet the service wants and
needs of the community and to serve as the foundation for budget development, Council adopted
Resolution 99-46, Principles for Budget Planning, on April 20, 1999. The Resolution separated
services the City provides into three categories of priority - primary, secondary, and support
services (ExhibitA attached).
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September 18, 2001
• 1. Primary services are those services that are necessaryfor the good ofthe entire community and
are basic to the safety, health, and welfare ofthe community. The allocation ofresources to the
provision ofprimary services is the first priority in budget preparation.
2. Secondary services are those services that enhance the quality of life of the residents and, to
many, increase the value of living and working in the community. Allocation of resources to
these services shall be considered only after the necessary allocation has been made to fund
primary services.
3. Support services provide the management, guidelines, and operational assistance to carry out
the provision ofprimary and secondary services. Resources allocated to these services should
be sufficient to provide the level and quality ofprimary and secondary services expected and
desired by the community.
The Resolution also specified that no new services, other than those identified as primary services,
shall be undertaken until all existing primary, secondary, and support services have received a
sufficient level offending to meet the needs of the community.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE 2002 AND 2003 RECOMMENDED BIENNIAL BUDGET:
. As reviewed earlier with the Council, the recommended budget supports:
I. maintaining and operating the City's assets;
2. providing operation and maintenance resources for the Building Community Choices and other
City projects scheduled to come on line;
3. maintaining, and in some cases improving service levels;
4. the 2001-2003 Council Policy Agenda; and
S. focusing resources into primary City services.
The recommended budget allocates a significant majority ofthe available discretionary dollars to
primary services. Staffs recommendation does include some monies for secondary and support
service enhancements that facilitate the provision of primary and secondary services to the
community.
The 2002 and 2003 recommended budget totals $438.4 million for the year 2002 and $442.7 million
for 2003. The Net Operating Budget (the money necessaryfor operating day-to-day services,
excluding transfers between fiends, debt service and capital projects) for 2002 totals $248.7 million
and $250.4 million for 2003.
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September 18, 2001
The Capital Improvements net budget (excluding transfers to other finds) is projected to be $38.0
million in 2002 and $35.9 million in 2003.
Debt Service will be $6.1 million in 2002 and $4.6 million in 2003. The debt service for both years
is within the Council policy debt target of 15% of the combined General, Debt Service and Special
District fords' revenue.
Anticipated Rate Ad
iustments
As part of the City's financial planning, the costs of providing services to the community are
reviewed. For those services that are supported, totally or in part, byfees and charges, the fees and
charges maybe adjusted. The following is a briefsummary of the fee and rate adjustments that are
proposed for 2002 and 2003.
Capital Expansion Fees
Adjustments will be presented by ordinance for Council approval during the budget adoption
process. The adjustment will be based on inflation consistent with the Capital Expansion fee
policies.
Light and Power Rates
No electric rate increases are projected for 2002-2003. A typical residential customer's bill (500
kWh per month) will remain at $31.98 per month. The customers cost in 2002-2003 will actually
be less than in 1982 when the cost of 500 kWh was $32.97.
Storm Drainage Rates
A 45% stormwater rate is recommended for 2002 and a 10% increase is recommended for 2003.
The increases are needed tof:nance costs associated with city-wide stormwater improvements, many
of which have been identified in the process of updating the City's Storm Drainage Master Plans.
Wastewater Rates
A 2% increase in wastewater rates is recommended for both 2002 and 2003. A typical
residential customer's wastewater bill would increase 32 cents in 2002 to $16.51 per month. The
2003 amount is projected to be $16.84. The billings are based on winter quarter water use of
5600 gallons. The increases are necessary to cover needed capital expansion expenses as well
as inflationary increases in operations and maintenance.
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September 18, 2001
• Water Rates
Water rates are projected to increase 6% a year in 2002 and 2003. Based on these projections, a
typical residential water bill (160, 000 gallons per year) would increase from the current $32.161
month to $34.091 month in 2002 and $36.14/month in 2003. The increases are necessary to cover
the debt service requirements for the Water Treatment Master Plan and inflationary increases in
operations and maintenance.
Administrative Fees
A number of administrative fees are adjusted by the City Manager with each budget cycle per
authority ofthe City Code. Increases are proposed in the 2002-2003 recommended budgetfor such
services and facility uses as rental of Lincoln Center meeting rooms, golffees, play court (tennis,
volleyball, horseshoe) rentals, and overtime parking fees/fines.
Personnel Costs
The 2000 census reported that the City's population was at 118, 652. City planners expect the
population to be approximately 125,300 in 2002 and 128, 370 in 2003, with 1, 612 employees to serve
• citizens in 2002 and], 628 in 2003. This represents a ratio of 12.9 employees per 1, 000 population
in 2002 and 12.7 per 1, 000 in 2003.
The City continues to have an exceptional workforce -- employees are highly skilled, productive and
committed to providing quality services. The City is predominantly a service organization and, as
such, is a labor intensive business. Included in the recommended biennial budget are resources to
complete the implementation of the City's updated classification and compensation plan and an
anticipated average market adjustment of approximately 4% per year for 2002 and 2003 for total
compensation (salary and benefits).
Proiected 2002 and 2003 Resources
The many service wants and needs of the community far outweigh available General Fund
resources. New ongoing resources for 2002 are projected to be approximately $2.5 million and
approximately $2.7 million for 2003. Available resources for one-time spending (discretionary
reserves at year-end 2000) total approximately $5.9 million with an additional $3.8 million
available in 2003 from the payback to the General Fund from the Special Assessment Debt Service
Fund. The total of $9.7 million includes the $1, 053, 710 in revenue received over the Article X,
Section 20 growth limitfor 2000.
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September 18, 2001
Revenue Retention
In November 1997, Fort Collins' voters approved a ballot measure that allows the City to retain
revenues that exceed the imposed growth limit. The measure was effective for fiscal year 1996 and
ensuing years. The approved measure also specified that any retained revenue over the growth limit
must be used for certain designated purposes:
1. Public health andsafety(including, but not limited to, environmental monitoring and mitigation)
2. Transportation
3. Growth management
4. Maintenance and repair of public facilities
Following is a brief history of how those revenues that exceeded the growth limit were spent.
1996 ($952, 295) - $526, 776 for transportation projects including street maintenance, traffic
signal timing and deicing materials storage facility. $425, 519 for maintenance and repair of
public facilities such as Lincoln Center box office renovation, City Park Center repairs, and
outdoor facility upkeep.
2. 1997 ($331, 026) - $271, 026 for street maintenance (Pavement Management Program) and
$60, 000 to provide matching funds for leveraging federal dollars for projects such as the
Harmony bike lane project.
3. 1998 ($754, 810) - $504, 810 for Advanced Traffic Management System (traffic signal system)
and $250, 000 for a local match that generated $1.25 million in additional funds for various
transportation projects.
4. 1999 ($650,144) —for street maintenance (Pavement Management Program).
In 2000, revenue exceeded the growth limit by $1, 053, 710 in General Fund general revenues. The
recommended budget for 2002 includes the allocation of the $1, 053, 710 for transportation uses -
street maintenance (Pavement Management Program).
Service Recommendations
The following is a listing of ongoing and one-time service additions recommended for 2002 and
2003. The complete package of all requested service additions/enhancements and those that are
recommended, including a brief explanation, is included in the information booklet, "Blue Book",
accompanying this agenda item.
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September 18, 2001
• 2002 2003
On oin One-time Oneoing One-time
Primary Services:
I.
New Office Building O&M
$114, 000
2.
Major Facilities Maintenance
$200, 000
$343, 000
$200, 000
$215, 000
3.
Utility Cost Increase -Facilities
$32, 000
$32, 000
4.
Utility Cost Increase-
$88,165
$20, 700
Recreation
5.
Development Review
$300,000
$300,000
6.
B&ZAdminAide
$57,504
$26,700
7.
Plans Analyst
$94, 874
$68,174
8.
Affordable Housing Production
$222, 047
$272, 474
9.
Affordable Housing Land Bank
$500, 000
$500, 000
10.
City Plan Update
$300,000
11.
Downtown Strategic Plan
$100, 000
12.
Parks Maintenance
$92, 600
$43, 600
$640, 900
$437, 800
13.
Second Sheet of Ice O&M
$254, 590
$57, 060
14.
Police Staffing
$648,379
$267,088
$666,014
$273,418
15.
Police Operations
$150,000
• 16.
Communications Center
$100,000
(Police)
17.
New Police Bldg Set -aside
$320, 000
$320, 000
18.
Pavement Management
$300,000
$1,701,866
$300,000
$1,821,370
19.
Storm Clean-up Payback
$150, 000
$150, 000
20.
Graffiti Reporting
$13,000
Total Primary Services
$2,117, 530
$4747, 293
T2,674,678
$3, 854, 822
Secondary Services:
21.
Library Special Services
$49,543
$22,700
22.
July 4th Celebration
$30, 000
23.
Soft Gold Park Development
$200, 000
24.
Human Rights Coordinator
$57, 798
$57, 798
25.
Transit DART Route 9
$160, 000
$160, 000
Expansion
Total Secondary Services
$79, 543
$440, 498
$0
$217, 798
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Support Services:
26. Rebate Program
27. Contractual Sales Tax Rep.
28. Recruitment Ad Budget
29. Real Estate Services
30. IT Basic Infrastructure
31. E-Commerce Infrastructure
32. GIS Strategic Plan
33. Communication Programs
34. Cable Programming
35. Special November Elections
36. Community Liaison Coord.
37. City Council Expenses
38. Regular Municipal Election
39. Humane Society
40. Island Grove Services
Total Support Services
Total Additions/Enhancements
Resources Available
NetAvailable
September 18, 2001
$45,000
$30,000
$45,000
$50,000 $50,000
$20,000
$82,243 $20,000 $92,208
$10,000
$25,000
$92,500 $92,500
$45,350
$50,000
$10,000
$22,474
$50,000
$180,000
$10, 760 $11,190
$1, 400 $1, 500
$259,984 $329,743 $32,690 $414,708
$2,457,057 $4,817,534 $2,707,368 $9,304,862
$2, 475, 974 $2, 714,449 $9, 676, 552
$18,917 $7,081 $371,690
The recommended budget does include the use of Incentive Savings and Equipment Replacement
monies from various departmental reserve accounts for one-time expenditures. The reserves used
are included in departmental base budgets.
Uncomin-a Budget Process Schedule
Regular Meeting
Public Hearing
September 18
Public Hearing
October 2
First Reading
November 6
Adoption
November 20"
Study Session
September 25
October 9 (if needed)
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September 18, 2001
. City Manager Fischbach presented background information relating to the proposed 2002-2003
budget and stated that this is the first official public hearing on the proposed budget. He stated that
a second public hearing is scheduled for October 2. He stated that this is also an opportunity to be
heard at a public hearing to discuss proposed changes in 2002 to Transfort routes 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10
and 14 and the southside shuttle. He stated that a large portion of the budget appropriation is legally
restricted and the expenditures can only be used for specific purposes. He stated that the budget for
utility services is $133.3 million, dedicated capital monies (Building Community Choices) $22.6
million, debt service $6.1 million, dedicated revenue expenditures for recreation etc. $39.7 million,
internal services $1.5 million, and transfer of funds $145.6 million. He stated that the total of these
dedicated funds is $348.8 million and when this is subtracted from the total proposed budget of
$438.4 million the remaining balance of $89.6 is the "flexible" portion of the budget. He stated that
this amount is proposed for expenditure in 2002 as follows: Poudre Fire Authority $12.6 million;
Police Services $22.1 million; subsidies to operate transit, recreation, cultural, cemeteries,
transportation services and capital projects $18.4 million; and park and trail maintenance, library,
building inspection and zoning, development review and planning, engineering, natural resources,
facility operation and maintenance and all other support services $36.5 million. He stated that
addition of a new service or enhancement of an existing service would require the City to decrease
or stop providing an existing service or to fund from revenue growth. He stated that Council adopted
Resolution 99-46 to set out principles for budget planning and outline service categories. He
explained the different service categories, the rationale for budget allocations, and the rate
• adjustments proposed as part of the budget document. He spoke regarding growth of the City and
the level of City staffing. He stated that the proposed budget focuses resources on primary services,
provides resources for operations and maintenance for the Building Community Choices program
and other capital projects, maintains and operates the City's assets, addresses policy issues and
projects identified by the Council in the 2001-2003 policy agenda, and maintains and improves
services. He reviewed the General Fund ongoing support by service category and addressed the
recommended service and facility enhancements. He spoke regarding funding for capital projects
and described the types of major projects that are anticipated. He stated that he welcomes input
regarding the budget and noted that input has been received from all of the boards and commissions.
He recognized the work done by staff regarding the budget and outlined the budget adoption
schedule.
Mayor Martinez stated that citizen comments would be limited to three minutes.
Christine Wilson, 900 Centre Avenue, expressed concerns regarding discontinuance of Transfort
Route 9.
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September 18, 2001
Brian Sipp, 1031 Ogden Court, asked that Council keep the southside shuttle running and improve
marketing of the bus system.
Sarah Allman, a Fort Collins resident, disabled bus rider, stated that bus service should grow as Fort
Collins grows and spoke in favor of a grid system.
Jana Six, 615 West Myrtle, asked that Transfort routes not be cut and that funding be increased to
allow bus service to grow as the City grows. She asked that Transfort be designated as a primary
service.
Lee Winfield, 411 Park Street, expressed concerns regarding cuts to Transfort Route 9.
Susan Williams, 400 Impala Circle, spoke regarding funding for Dial -a -Ride and asked Steve Sutter
to read her statement. Mr. Sutter read Ms. Williams' prepared statement.
Paula Shepherd, Poudre School District special education teacher, expressed concerns regarding cuts
in funding of Transfort routes. She stated that transportation should be a primary service.
Karen Norton, southeast Fort Collins resident, asked for continuation of funding for the southside
shuttle and funding for a grid system for extended route coverage for Transfort.
David McDanel, Northern Colorado Cross Disabilities Coalition at Disabled Resource Services,
asked for funding to expand Dial -a -Ride.
Valerie Utter, 908 East Swallow Road, expressed concerns regarding changes to Transfort Routes
5 and 7. She asked that routes be added rather than taken away.
Scott Hansen, Boys and Girls Club of Fort Collins, asked that Transfort Route 9 not be cut.
Susan Baylor, Larimer Humane Society, asked that Council fund the full budget request for the
Humane Society to continue animal protection and control at its current level of service.
Paul Vanvalkenburg, 1220 Teakwood Drive, expressed concerns about cutting Transfort Route 9.
Dr. Cat Cross, 103 Oak Park Drive, expressed concern regarding funding for the Humane Society.
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September 18, 2001
• Karen Cagle, 323 Park Street, asked that bus routes not be cut and spoke regarding the impacts of
cutting Transfort Route 9.
Raymond Hogler, Humane Society Board of Directors, spoke regarding the reasons for the Humane
Society's budget request and asked the City to pay its fair share.
Patrick Alexander, a Fort Collins resident, spoke on behalf of the Humane Society budget increase.
Dori Vilalon, Humane Society Executive Director, spoke regarding a necessary funding increase for
the Humane Society.
Rigo Neira, manager for animal protection and control for the Humane Society, spoke regarding
funding for the Humane Society.
Eric Levine, Air Quality Advisory Board chair, stated that the board reluctantly voted in favor of the
staff proposal regarding Transfort routes with a number of caveats. He compared the Transfort
system with bus system in Boulder and stated that transportation should be more than 1/14th of one
percent of the City's budget.
Mike Zentveld, 401 Towhee Street, unit director for the Fort Collins Boys and Girls Club, stated that
• the new facility is being built near Lincoln Junior High School on Transfort Route 9. He spoke
regarding the loss of that route on the new facility.
Randy Gorby, 5000 Boardwalk Drive, spoke relating to funding for the southside shuttle and stated
that transportation should be a primary service.
Kathleen Reagan, 411 Park Street, spoke regarding the impacts of losing Transfort Route 9 and
stated that transportation should be a primary service. She stated that the City should support the
Boys and Girls Club by maintaining the existing bus service that goes to that area.
Kelly Ohlson, 2040 Bennington Circle, stated that if the City is going to be a big city that mass
transit should continue to be funded. He asked that Council provide majority direction at this
hearing that they intend to fund the bus routes. He suggested that the City give the Humane Society
an infusion of one-time money to help that organization get back on its feet and then make a realistic
adjustment to ongoing money. He asked that the Council take significant amounts of one-time
monies and put them toward the items that would have been funded by the ballot measures that
Council chose not to put on the ballot. He stated that building more roads in a rapidly growing
community does not help traffic congestion because of the resulting development, and he asked that
one-time dollars be allocated to items other than roads, such as the community separator and Poudre
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September 18, 2001
River habitat restoration. He spoke regarding negative implications of rapid population growth such
as the increase in water rates and stormwater rates.
Brian Holtgren, a Fort Collins resident, representing Friends Interested in Dogs in Open Spaces
(FIDOS), stated that the group's goal is the right to exercise dogs under voice and sight control in
open spaces. He spoke regarding a potential 17 acre site on North Taft Hill Road. He suggested that
the City pursue as a high priority the acquisition of this property through purchase or donation.
Chuck Bade, 2355 Northbrook Drive, spoke in favor of continuing the east end of the southside
shuttle and spoke regarding the insufficiency of public notice regarding the Transfort route changes.
Randy Fischer, Natural Resources Advisory Board, spoke regarding four environmental programs
that the board would like to see incorporated into the budget, including the community separators
program, the climate -wise program, additional environmental planners, and revisions to the outdated
framework for environmental quality.
Miranda Rosskopf, 7139 Egyptian Drive, suggested that the City team up with CSU regarding transit
ridership and that the City improve rather than get rid of routes.
Nancy York, 130 South Whitcomb Street, spoke regarding funding for the Foxtrot route and other
Transfort routes. He spoke regarding funding for the Humane Society, Poudre River habitat
restoration, and community separators.
Gina Janett, 730 West Oak, spoke regarding funding for transit and stated that it is a basic service
not provided by the private sector.
David Delano, 3701 Royal Drive, spoke regarding funding for the southside shuttle and asked that
Route 5 continue to provide service to the public library.
Councilmember Bertschy noted the comments received regarding transit and stated that he is
interested in doing everything possible to increase transit funding opportunities. He asked that the
City Manager bring back other ideas and alternatives besides those proposed in the budget. He asked
for further information about the significant decrease in natural resources staff. He asked about the
income generated versus City dollars dedicated in the areas of recreation and cultural services and
facilities and whether there are options with regard to steering those areas toward becoming more
self supporting for fee generated activities. He asked if there is income in the police services budget,
how much of the patrol services budget is slated for traffic enforcement, and what portion of the
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September 18, 2001
• proposed increase for officers would go toward traffic enforcement. He asked how overhead charges
for shared costs are allocated and recovered in the utility services area. He asked why $2,000 for
employee recognition was not included in the budget. He stated that there is an opportunity for
matching funding from the MPO for the trolley barn and asked if other grant sources have been
explored to supplement that funding. He asked why implementation of a closed captioning system
was not included in the budget. He stated that the request for field inspection and monitoring of
development sites is a modest increase and would provide an important service. He asked why the
natural resources plan element updates were not included in the City Plan update package. He asked
if capital projects funds have been redirected. City Manager Fischbach stated that Choices 95 money
was dedicated by City Council for the police building. Councilmember Bertschy asked about
Choices 95 funds appropriated for the Eastside Community Park that were not expended because of
the lack of a site and why this redirection of funds never went back to a public vote. He stated that
there is a continuing fund balance of Choices 95 money and asked if this might be available for the
Poudre River Corridor Plan. He requested a complete copy of the Humane Society budget.
Mayor Martinez stated that staff will prepare a comprehensive report that will be available to the
public in response to Council's questions.
Councilmember Tharp asked that Council assure the citizens present at the meeting that the Council
will make every effort to review Route 9 and the southside shuttle. She asked if peak hour Transfort
• service for the Boys and Girls Club would help. She commented regarding the number of people
with disabilities who use Transfort. She asked that direction be given to staff to pursue the
acquisition of land by donation in response to the FIDOS request. She asked if the City has asked
the School District for a contribution toward the transit system and stated that she would like to the
City present this type of request.
Mayor Martinez stated that the purpose of this hearing is to ask questions that staff will respond to
in writing.
Councilmember Kastein asked if Councilmember Tharp is asking about an incremental change or
redoing the strategic operating plan for Transfort.
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September 18, 2001
Councilmember Tharp stated that Council's goal still appears to be to get Transfort onto aproductive
grid system. She stated that the concern is whether transit services have been cut out to quickly to
transit dependent people and that this is a decision she would like to revisit. She stated that
productivity was a goal of the previous Council and that service to the community is a stronger,
overriding goal.
Councilmember Kastein asked if Councilmember Tharp is interested in reviewing transit service to
specific populations or the community in general. Councilmember Tharp stated that she is interested
in both.
Councilmember Weitkunat noted that the budget includes discussion of funding for Dial -a -Ride and
Route 9. City Manager Fischbach stated that one or the other would be funded. He stated that the
southside shuttle will receive less consideration unless different direction is received from Council.
Councilmember Weitkunat stated that funding for Route 9 should be looked at because of the input
received. She stated that she would like to see discussion of the other two routes in light of the
policy established in the strategic plan. She stated that the issues need to be addressed with the
ridership figures identified in the research and that she would favor discussion based on the
testimony received.
Councilmember Hamrick stated that he is interested in keeping Route 9 and the southside shuttle and
possible 10 or 14. He stated that he would like to review these route decisions.
Councilmember Bertschy stated that routes can not be added indiscriminately without looking at the
research that has been done, and that he continues to favor finding a way to save Route 9. He stated
that night service for Dial -a -Ride is also extremely important. He stated that there is a need to look
at this in a comprehensive way and that he could not commit to a decision until he sees the figures.
City Manager Fischbach stated that there may be some additional money for Route 9 through the
federal government from the Safe School City project.
Mayor Martinez spoke regarding the possibility of applying for Safe School money and stated that
the Council must look at the overall cost. He stated that there are limited resources and that
something must be cut if something else is to be funded.
Councilmember Wanner stated that it is important to look at funding of transit and that the Council
is interested in finding a funding solution. He stated that he will commit to doing everything
possible to solve the problem and keep the routes in effect.
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September 18, 2001
isreserve
Tharp asked about the projection for an 8.8% revenue increase and the use of
reserve funds for one-time and some ongoing expenditures. She asked if more thought should be
given to the proper use of reserves. She stated that she would like to see if there are options to avoid
a water rate increase and that she would like to see some alternative approaches. She stated that
funding for the development review process, an administrative aide to process permits, and a plans
analyst needed for the increasing permit activity are costs of growth. She stated that growth is
supposed to pay its own way and that these budget enhancements suggest that the impact fees do not
take into account the addition of staffing. She asked if the second sheet of ice project is going
forward and if the money will remain in reserves if the project does not go forward. She stated that
she would like to see the reimbursement of branch cleanup money delayed. She asked about the
base budget for the Fourth of July event. She stated that the City sampler tours money should be
reviewed. She asked for confirmation that the proceeds from the Larimer County sales and use tax
can be used for community separators and stated that the City should move ahead with that as soon
as possible. She asked for clarification regarding transfers from departments for information and
communication technologies. She asked about the justification for $2 million of additional money
for police services.
Councilmember Kastein asked about enhancements for street capital and requested information
regarding funding for Harmony/Shields. He noted that money will be available in the exception
process and that Council has committed to streets capital as being a high priority in capital spending.
• He asked for ideas on how that money or other money might be set aside as capital in a protected
fund to be used for transportation/streets. He asked about comments made that Dial -a -Ride is not
a viable transportation alternative and asked for further information about this issue. He asked for
information whether eliminating routes used by the disabled and elderly will swamp Dial -a -Ride.
He asked about the cost effectiveness of Dial -a -Ride versus Transfort for those populations. He
stated that he is interested in ways to have the School District provide more funding for routes that
take students to school. He asked for information about the process for publicizing the route
changes.
Councilmember Hamrick asked for information regarding alternate bus routes and funding options.
He stated that he is concerned about eliminating routes that take students to school. He asked about
the choice between expanded transit service for Dial -a -Ride and Route 9 and requested clarification
regarding costs for each. He asked for information regarding qualifications to use Dial -a -Ride. He
asked why CLRS was the only department that was requested to prepare a budget at 85% of the 2002
General Fund portion. He stated that the CLRS proposal for service reductions does not reflect any
ranges, phased alternatives or scaled down versions of programs. He asked about the item for real
estate services and stated that he would like to see the base budget in connection with each proposed
enhancement. He asked if employees or contracted services would be added for this purpose. He
suggested that staff look at what kinds of services could be outsourced. He asked about one-time
development review costs and requested more detail about what this money would be spent for. He
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September 18, 2001
noted that almost $1 million is being allocated for growth related development support and planning
and asked if growth is really paying its own way. He requested more information relating to the
development center costs and asked if any of this money will be recovered from impact fees. He
stated that there are more pressing needs than the item relating to an administrative aide and that the
cost for the administrative aide is high. He requested more information relating to the one-time cost
for the administrative aide. He stated that he has similar concerns for the plans analyst position. He
asked about the affordable housing land bank budget and the $500,000 one-time expense. He asked
about the item for new park trails, medians and tree maintenance and requested staffing and asked
if the City could save money by outsourcing those positions. He suggested a study session regarding
police services expenses and operations. He noted that staffing recommendations are based on
population and suggested discussion regarding staffing based on crime statistics. He noted a 4%
increase for major maintenance and repair funding from the General Fund and asked what the actual
requirements have been. He asked about engineering capital and where the gap comes from with
regard to the pavement management program. He requested information regarding what it would
take to fund the study or the community separator program between Windsor, Timnath and
Wellington. He requested information regarding the climate -wise program, the second
environmental planner for review and the one-time funding for the natural resources update and
revisions to the framework for environmental quality.
Councilmember Weitkunat stated that the questions have been comprehensive and she had no further
questions at this time.
Councilmember Wanner agreed that most of the questions have been asked.
Councilmember Bertschy asked for information regarding the climate -wise program. City Manager
Fischbach stated that staff made a commitment to the Council to continue the climate -wise program.
Mayor Martinez asked if the $267,000 allocated in police staffing represents overtime costs and if
so whether additional staffing is needed. He asked about Island Grove costs and if the City should
be working with the County on an investment in a detox center. City Manager Fischbach stated that
detox center costs are about $24,000 per year. Mayor Martinez asked about the increase for graffiti
reporting and personnel needs.
Councilmember Tharp noted that with the addition of library funding that additional staff is not
being added. She suggested looking at funding for the children's librarian at Harmony. She asked
if the City can convince the County to pay a fair share of library costs.
Mayor Martinez requested a copy of the Humane Society budget for analysis and asked if the FIDOS
proposal would add enforcement cost to the Humane Society. City Manager Fischbach stated that
he does not believe that the proposal would increase costs for the Humane Society because the City
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September 18, 2001
• handles enforcement on the City's dog parks. He noted that the City is pursuing the donation of that
property.
Councilmember Weitkunat requested a statement regarding the next steps.
Mayor Martinez stated that another public hearing will be held on October 2 and that there will be
a study session on September 25 to answer as many of the questions asked as possible.
Ordinance No. 136,2001,
Authorizing the Conveyance of Non-exclusive Easement
Interests for the Construction of a Sixteen Inch Water Line
by the Fort Collins —Loveland Water District on Portions of Coyote
Ridge Natural Area, McKee Farm Open Space, and Long View Farm
Natural Area. Adopted on Second Reading.
The following is staffs memorandum on this item.
"Executive Summary
The Fort Collins -Loveland Water District has planned since 1986 to construct water storage tanks
• on the land now known as Coyote Ridge and a water pipeline to the tanks across Longview Farm
Open Land, McKee Farm Open Land and Coyote Ridge Natural Area. These parcels are owned
either by the City of Fort Collins alone or in partnership with Larimer County and Loveland. The
pipeline is needed to supply water to existing and projected growth within the District's existing
Service Area. After eighteen months of negotiations and analyzing many alternative tank locations
and water line alignments the City, County and the District have reached agreement on a proposed
alignment. The proposed easements would allow the construction of the new water pipeline across
the Longview Farm Open Land, the McKee Farm Open Land, the Coyote Ridge Natural Area, and
the Larimer County Landfill The proposed pipeline alignment minimizes the impact to the natural
areas and open lands. The watertank location on the Larimer County Landfill, which will become
a natural area in the future, minimizes the visual impact for nearby property owners, natural area
users, and motorists on Taft Hill Road as well as minimizing the impact on the natural areas.
Ordinance No. 136, 2001, was adopted 5-2 on First Reading on August 21, 2001. At the time of
First Reading, the fair market value of the easements had not been appraised. In early September,
the City received an appraisal of the easements that set the fair market value of the easement and
set the City's share ofthat amount to be $23, 740. City staffhas reviewed the appraisal and believes
that the appraisal sets the value for the easements in the middle of the range of reasonable fair
market values. "
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September 18, 2001
City Manager Fischbach stated that this item appears on the discussion agenda because of the split
vote on First Reading.
Councilmember Kastein made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Weitkunat, to adopt
Ordinance No. 136, 2001 on Second Reading,
Councilmember Hamrick stated that this easement and the next easement cross natural areas and that
he would vote against the motion because there are other alternatives.
The vote on the motion was as follows: Yeas: Councilmembers Bertschy, Kastein, Martinez, Tharp,
Wanner and Weitkunat. Nays: Councilmember Hamrick.
THE MOTION CARRIED
Ordinance No. 149, 2001
Authorizing the Conveyance of Non-exclusive Easement Interests
for the Construction of a Thirty-six Inch Water Line by the Fort Collins- Loveland
Water District on a Portion of the Cathy Fromme
Prairie Natural Area. Adopted on First Reading:
The following is staffs memorandum on this item.
"Executive Summary
The Fort Collins -Loveland Water District will be responsible for all costs associated with the
construction of the water pipeline and restoration of disturbed areas. The District has agreed to
pay fair market value as compensation for the temporary construction easements and the permanent
easements. This value will be determined prior to second reading. Staff recommends waiving the
application fee.
On August 21, 2001 Council denied Fort Collins -Loveland Water District's (the "District') request
for easements to construct a 36" waterline. The District proposed to construct the waterline across
Cathy Fromme Prairie, east of Taft Hill Road, between Harmony Road and Trilby Road. Since then
staff has worked with the District to move the waterline closer to Taft Hill Road into an area that
will be disturbed in the future when the road is widened. The original proposal had the waterline
located 175' east of the centerline of Taft Hill Road for the entire 2-mile length. The revised
proposal locates the waterline 160' east of centerline for the first 1 114 miles and then 80' east of
centerline for the last 314 mile. The proposed alignment will lessen the impact to Cathy Fromme
Prairie, meet the needs ofthe District and allowfor the future reconstruction of Taft Hill Road. This
easement has been placed in a location that basically will be disturbed when the roadway is
reconstructed, thus minimizing the impact on the natural area. A copy of the temporary and
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September 18, 2001
• permanent easement forms that the District has agreed to sign are on file in the City Clerk's Office.
BACKGROUND:
The Fort Collins -Loveland Water District is apolitical subdivision ofthe State of Colorado, formed
to provide water service to urban areas in south Fort Collins, north Loveland and areas of
unincorporated Lorimer County between the two cities. The District obtains its water from
Horsetooth Reservoir, treats the water at its Soldier Canyon Treatment Plant, and transports it to
its service area via a series ofpipelines. The District completed a masterplan for itsfuture facilities
in 1986 Among the future facilities identified in this plan was a 36-inch water pipeline to be
located along Taft Hill Road in southern Fort Collins. The 36-inch water pipeline would connect
to an existing 24-inch supply line at Taft Hill Road and Trilby Road. The pipeline is needed to
supply water to existing and projected growth within the District's existing Service Area. Future
plans are also to construct a 16" waterline to the south to connect to the City of Loveland water
supply.
The District recently completed the construction of the first phase of the waterline project, located
on the east side of Taft Hill Road between Horsetooth Road and old Harmony Road. The District
plans to complete the second phase ofthe pipeline during Fall and Winter of 2001 in order to meet
anticipated water demands. The second phase ofthe project would extendfrom rom old Harmony Road
south for two miles to Trilby Road, where it would connect to the existing pipeline. The District has
• requestedaI00footwide temporary construction easement anda30footwidepermanenteasement
for the construction, operation, and maintenance ofthe water pipeline. The City of Fort Collins, in
cooperation with Lorimer County, purchased the parcels of land now known as the Cathy Fromme
Prairie Natural Area between 1993 and 1997, along with adjacentproperty affected by the proposed
easements. A diagram showing the properties impacted and the new proposed alignment of the
water line is attached to this agenda item.
The City owns the Cathy Fromme Prairie Natural Area property located on both sides of Taft Hill
Road for the first mile ofthe proposed waterline alignment. Cathy Fromme Prairie property owned
by the City also extends an additional 0.25 miles to the south on the east side of Taft Hill. Under
an approved intergovernmental agreement between the City and the County, which is in the process
of being finalized, the City will be obligated to convey to the County an undivided 11.54 percent
interest in this parcel. South of this point, the County owns the next 0.25-miles of land along the
eastern side of the Taft Hill, and the County also has the option to purchase the land for the next
0.25 miles in 2002. Under existing intergovernmental agreements between the County and the City,
the County is obligated to convey to the City an undivided 25% interest in those parcels. Finally,
the City has reached agreement with the owners of the remaining 0.25-miles along the south end
ofthe waterline corridor to Trilby Road, and the City is in the process ofpurchasing that property.
Staffanticipates closing on the purchase of this 40-acre parcel this Fall. Staff is requesting that the
Council consent to the easements agreements on all the properties the City owns or expects to own
an interest in, in order to facilitate completion of all of the easements needed for the water line.
Larimer County owns the landfill property west ofTaf Hill Road along the second mile ofthe route.
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September 18, 2001
Stafffrom several City departments have worked closely with the District to revise the recommended
location for the pipeline alignment, considering environmental conditions along the alignment, the
needs of the district for pipeline construction and operation, and the future widening of Taft Hill
Road from two lane to four lane, as called for in the City's adopted Master Street Plan. Three
alternatives were considered for the pipeline location: in Taft Hill Road itself, west of Taft Hill
Road, or east of Taft Hill Road.
From a natural areas protection perspective, the most desirable location for the water pipeline
would be within Taft Hill Road itself. The District desires not to place the pipeline under the
existing Taft Hill Road for several reasons. First, construction within Taft Hill Road would require
complete closure of the road for a period of two to three months. Second, placement in the road now
may require relocation ofportions ofthe waterline in the future when Taft Hill Road is widened and
reconstructed, which would interrupt water service for a prolonged period of several months and
would greatly increase the cost of the pipeline. Third, compared to the proposed location,
placement of the pipeline in the road would cost much more due to the reconstruction of the
roadway. And fourth, given the volume of water to be carried in the pipeline, the District has
serious concerns about public safety in the event of a future leak in the pipeline if it was buried in
the road.
Natural Resources staff evaluated the alternatives ofplacing the pipeline on either side of Taft Hill
Road. Because there are extensive wetlands on the west side of the road, staff recommended that
both the future widening of Taft Hill Road and the pipeline location occur entirely on the east side
of the road, from old Harmony Road south to approximately the entrance to the Larimer County
Landfill. From this point south to Trilby Road, the future road widening would occur on both sides
of the road (as is normally done) and the pipeline would be placed east of the road. The City's
adopted Master Street Plan calls for the widening of Taft Hill Road south of Harmony Road from
its current two-lane configuration to afour-lane arterial. Although construction is manyyears away,
staff developed a conceptual plan for the project to facilitate decision making regarding the water
pipeline location. Key elements of the design include:
1. Performing all of the road wide ning on the east side of the existing road, rather than on both
sides of the road from old Harmony Road south to the Landfill entrance.
2. Using a rural arterial road cross-section rather than the standard arterial cross-section in order
to reduce the area of disturbance (a 72 foot cross section rather than a 145 foot cross section).
3. Varying the finished slopes adjacent to the road so they appear more natural and blend into the
environment of the Cathy Fromme Prairie.
4. Locating the pipeline easement near the toe of the future slope of the road embankment so that
the pipeline does not need to be moved when the road is built and that the easement area is not re -
disturbed by road construction.
These considerations led to the proposed location of the pipeline east of the existing centerline of
Taft Hill Road. This means that, until Taft Hill Road is widened, the pipeline will be located within
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• the current Cathy Fromme Prairie rather than immediately adjacent to the road Ultimately,
however, this arrangement should produce less impact to the prairie and result in a more natural -
appearing landscape.
In addition to the design considerations for locating the pipeline, Natural Resources staff has
developed additional provisions that are included in the easement and on the plans for resource
protection during construction and for restoration of the property following construction. Some of
the more significant measures include thefollowing:
Ecological characterization study to determine if plant or wildlife species of concern are
present. Construction is then scheduled to avoid or minimize the impact on the speciesfound
and sensitive plants are removed for transplanting following construction.
• A specific access plan and use of construction fencing to limit construction activity to the
easements
• Erosion control.
• Maintain good communication with Natural Resources representative prior to, during, and
following construction to assure that the resource protection measures are being
implemented correctly.
• Segregation of topsoil from disturbed areas.
• Replace topsoil and reseed the disturbed areas per Natural Resources specifications.
• Payment offees for the City to take over the ongoing management of the revegetation.
• Natural Resources must accept the restoration before the District relieves the Contractor
of responsibility.
With the resource protection measures in place, staff recommends approval of the proposed
easements. Construction ofthe new waterline will impact the Cathy Fromme Prairie Natural Area.
However, the pipeline is an essential public facility that has been anticipated for 15 years. The
District has worked with City staff to locate the pipeline appropriately and to implement the
appropriate resource protection measures. "
City Manager Fischbach stated that this easement was rejected by Council at the last meeting and
that staff has been working with the Council's understanding and direction to try to bring back a
proposal that the Council could consider for approval. He stated that agreements have been reached
that he felt would be conducive to Council's consideration of this easement.
Mark Sears, Natural Resources Program Manager, described the changes that were made since the
last meeting. He stated that for the first 1-1/4 mile south of Harmony Road that the alignment has
been changed from 175 feet from the centerline to 160 feet. He stated that the waterline would now
be located at the toe of the slope in several locations. He stated that south of that point for the next
3/4 mile the pipeline has been moved from 175 feet to 80 feet. He stated that it is proposed that the
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roadway for the first 1-1/4 mile be widened to the east of Taft Hill Road and that for the last 3/4 mile
the road be widened equally on both sides of the roadway.
Randy Fischer, Natural Resources Advisory Board, spoke regarding the importance of the issues
raised in connection with this easement and commented regarding the District's threat of
condemnation and how the District has operated with regard to this easement. He stated that this
should not be a precedent regarding how such easements will be handled in the future and that
natural areas values should in some cases take precedence over other interests.
Kelly Ohlson, 2040 Bennington Circle, thanked the four Councilmembers who voted the easement
down at the last meeting. He stated that he cannot understand why the easement must run through
public open space when it can be routed around private property. He spoke regarding legality issues
and stated that at times it may be necessary to allow the City to be sued if Council's decision is fair
and just. He spoke regarding the need to develop case law in cases where there are conflicting public
benefits such as natural areas and easements.
Councilmember Bertschy asked about the addition to the design considerations and the different
provisions included in the easement. Sears stated that these were in the original proposal.
Councilmember Bertschy asked if these considerations and provisions become more important in
light of the new location of the easement. Sears stated that the resource protection standards do not
change with the alignment.
Councilmember Kastein made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Weitkunat, to adopt
Ordinance No. 149, 2001 on First Reading.
Councilmember Kastein stated that there are differences between Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the
waterline.
Mayor Martinez stated that Council does not bow under the threat of litigation and noted that
litigation is expensive.
Councilmember Bertschy stated that there is a natural areas easement policy in place and that special
districts are asked to recognize the policy.
The vote on the motion was as follows: Yeas: Councilmembers Bertschy, Kastein, Martinez, Tharp,
Wanner and Weitkunat. Nays: Councilmember Hamrick.
THE MOTION CARRIED
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isDiscussion of Whether or Not to Modify Resolution 99-46 -
Should Transit be Categorized as a "Secondary" Services or a "Primary" Service?
The following is staffs memorandum on this item.
"Executive Summary
In April 1999, the City Council adopted Resolution 99-46 the outline several principles to follow
for budget planning including placing the City's services into one of three categories: Primary,
Secondary, and Support. The policies outlined in this resolution were subsequently adopted by City
Council as part of the City's Financial Management Policies.
Recently, Councilmembers expressed a desire to discuss whether or not transit services andfacilities
should be moved from "Secondary Services" and placed within the "Primary Services" category.
This is an opportunity for Council to discuss and provide direction to the City Manager as to
whether or not the Financial Management Policies are to be modified.
BACKGROUND:
In 1999, the City Council adopted Resolution 99-46to aid in planningfor the allocation ofresources
• to meet the good of the whole community. Among the adopted principles, was one that categorized
the City's services into three categories:
Primary Services —those services that are necessaryfor the good ofthe entire community. They
are basic to the safety, health and welfare of a community, and the allocation of all resources
necessary for the provision of primary services is the first priority in budget preparation.
Primary services are:
Police
Water
Fire
Streets
Building Inspection
Electric
Development Review
Engineering
Facilities Maintenance
(all public facilities
including parks)
Wastewater
Stormwater
Natural Resources
Affordable Housing
Note: The services typically part of this category are those that most people consider essential
to a community's basic functioning. In other words, if a new community is created or a major
disaster devastated a community, these are the services and facilities that would be needed to
ensure the basic safety, health and welfare of citizens living in the community.
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Secondary Services —those services that enhance the quality of life and, to many, increase the
value of living and working in a community. While the value of secondary services is
recognized, the allocation of resources to those services shall be considered only after the
necessary allocation has been made to fund primary services. Secondary services are:
Recreation Transfort Neighborhood Resources
Performing Arts Human Rights Library
Cemeteries Golf Human Services Contract
Airport Parks Natural Areas
Museum
Note: These services are very important. They give our community its "heart and soul. "
However, by definition, these services are not essential to basic functioning of a community of
people. They do indeed enhance and certainly set apart our communityfrom other communities.
• Sunnort Services —those services that provide the management, guidelines and operational
assistance to carry out the provision of primary and secondary services. Resources should be
allocated to support services to support the level and quality ofprimary services expected and
desired by the community. Support services are:
General Administration Finance Legal
Budget Human Resources City Clerk
Clerical Support Fleet Management
Information Technology Geographic Information Systems
Note: For the most part, these services are provided to the various operating departments. For
some, information may be directly delivered to citizens —such as maps from the GIS service,
copies ofordinances and resolutions from the Clerk's Office —but this is not an essential nature
of their business. Primary and Secondary Services depend on these services to support and
supply necessary information and service for their operations.
Councilmembers indicated a desire to discuss whether or not transit services and facilities should
be placed under the "Primary Service" category rather than the "Secondary Services" category.
Perhaps a series of questions may help guide the Council discussion and determination of this
question:
a. How does Council define "transit services"? What is and is not included in transit
services?
b. In what ways are transit services and facilities essential to a community's safety, health
or welfare?
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• C. In what ways do transit services and facilities match, or not, the definition of
primary services? Sec ndary services?
*These notes are not apart of Resolution 99-46.
Council Action Requested
The action requested is for City Council to provide direction to the City Manager, by motion, as to
whether or not to prepare an amendment to the City's Financial Policies to modify and remove
transit services from the Secondary Services category and place it in the Primary Services
category? "
City Manager Fischbach presented background information regarding the agenda item. He outlined
the primary, secondary and support services identified in Resolution 99-46. He stated that there has
been some Council discussion regarding identifying transit services as a primary service. He stated
that a new Resolution could be brought back for Council consideration if that is Council's direction.
Dan Gould, Transportation Board, noted that the Board strongly supports making Transfort a
primary service. He outlined the main points of a letter that has been sent to the Council from the
Board. He urged the Council to change the designation of Transfort.
•Sally Craig, 1409 South Summitview, stated that affordable housing is supported by the City and
is a primary service. She stated that people who need affordable housing also need transportation.
She asked Council to identify transit as a primary service.
Gina Janett, 730 West Oak, stated that the City is the only provider of transit and that it should be
a primary service because it promotes the public health and welfare.
Eric Levine, Natural Resources Advisory Board, stated that the Board has recommended
unanimously that the City Council designate transit as a primary service. He stated that the
Transportation Board has also unanimously made the same recommendation. He compared the Fort
Collins and Boulder bus systems. He spoke regarding City Plan's goals for transportation and stated
that there is no private sector for transit service.
Kathy Hutchinson, 1315 Whedbee, stated that transit is not as important as primary services such
as police and fire protection. She stated that transit should not compete for funds with important
primary services.
Tim Johnson, Transportation Board chair, urged Council's support of transit as a primary service.
He stated that Transfort serves families and helps young people be more independent.
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Nancy York, 130 South Whitcomb Street, spoke in support of designating transit as a primary
service. She spoke regarding the cost of widening streets.
Councilmember Warmer stated that he supports the inclusion of transit as a primary service along
with other transportation services.
Councilmember Wanner made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Tharp, to include transit as
a primary service.
Councilmember Weitkunat stated that the designation of primary, secondary and support services
was done as a financial management policy and a monetary means of addressing demands. She
stated that primary services were determined to be those that supported safety, health and welfare
and that are essential to any community should it be devastated and have to start over. She
questioned having affordable housing on the primary services list. She stated that secondary services
are those that enhance the quality of life and increase the value of living and working in the
community, and that is what a transit service does by definition. She stated that this approach avoids
developing a budget based on wants and needs. She stated that transit is an extra rather than an
essential for a community.
Councilmember Tharp stated that transit is an integral part of the transportation system. She stated
that transit is essential because people depend upon it, and that many low income people do not have
other transportation options. She stated that transit is a need rather than a choice for many people.
She stated that some people choose to ride the bus because of air quality and traffic congestion
concerns. She asked rhetorically if changing the transit category from secondary to primary would
make any staff changes necessary and if it would change departmental organization and budgets.
She stated that the inclusion of transit as a primary service is more than semantics and that
designating "streets" as a primary service is too narrow and does not match City Plan or Council's
policy goals for the next year. She stated that the essential service that needs to be provided is
"transportation" and not just "streets." She stated that there needs to be a change in thinking to the
concept that cities provide alternatives for transportation, not just streets. She stated that the City
needs to work to build a more productive bus system. She stated that the City's investment in transit
is minimal at this point and that the City needs to work toward bus service to serve a growing
community.
Councilmember Weitkunat asked if Councilmember Tharp is talking about "transit" or
"transportation systems" and noted that these are different things.
Councilmember Tharp stated that transit is a part of the transportation system.
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• Councilmember Bertschy stated that transit should be a primary service because it contributes to the
welfare and economic health of the community. He stated that transit is needed so that people can
live and work in the same place. He stated that transit should be part of a comprehensive
transportation system. He suggested using the words "transportation systems" in place of "streets"
as a primary service and that this should include a comprehensive transportation system including
transit. He stated that he would prefer using "transit" in place of "Transfort" in any case. He spoke
regarding the economic necessity of having a transit system for the economic health of the
community.
Councilmember Kastein stated that streets is provided $1.7 million each year and that Transfort
receives $4.1 million each year. Councilmember Kastein asked if anything different would have
been done in the budget if Transfort had been listed as a primary service. City Manager Fischbach
stated that there is a subtle impact of such a decision on budget decisions.
Councilmember Kastein noted that one comment was that the City is the only provider of transit.
He stated that people figure out how to do things if government does not do things for them. He
stated that the City has decided to provide transit and that this does not need to always be the case.
He stated that there is a strategic plan that states that the more people ride the bus the more dedicated
the City is to funding it. He stated that primary services are for the good of the entire community
and are basic to the safety, health and welfare of the community. He stated that Transfort does not
• qualify as this type of basic service and that it does fit the definition of secondary services. He stated
that it is not a service that should compete with services such as police, fire and streets (which buses
drive on).
•
Councilmember Hamrick stated that this needs to be looked at from a mobility perspective and that
streets is one component of mobility. He stated that for some people transportation services are a
basic need. He stated that he would support moving transit and transportation services to primary
services. He suggested reviewing the list of primary services.
Councilmember Weitkunat stated that she believes that private entities were involved at one time
in the transportation system and that the City took the direction of providing services such as Dial -a -
Ride. She stated that if transportation is stated as a necessary service that it goes beyond the bus
service. She stated that transportation is not a necessity but is something people want and need. She
stated that all modes of transportation should be included. She stated that the street itself rather than
what travels upon it is the basic service provided by the City and that mobility goes beyond that.
She stated that changing the definitions changes budgetary direction.
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September 18. 2001
IsCouncilmember Tharp stated that the direction should be to change the label from "streets" to
"transportation" to include all facets of the transportation system.
Councilmember Bertschy stated that Dial -a -Ride was unable to meet the service standards of the
City. City Manager Fischbach stated that the City took over Dial -a -Ride at less expense.
Councilmember Hamrick stated that the more the bus service is funded the more people will use it.
City Manager Fischbach asked for clarification regarding the motion.
Councilmember Wanner made a revised motion, seconded by Councilmember Tharp, to substitute
"transportation services" for "streets" in the primary services category and to remove "Transfort"
from the secondary services category.
Mayor Martinez expressed concern about moving amenities into primary services. He stated that
if the change will not affect budget or organization that it is unclear what we are trying to fix. He
noted that the philosophy is to have growth pay its own way and asked how buses will pay their own
way. He stated that monetary issues should be considered first for primary services if this is to be
a financial policy. He stated that the primary and secondary service designations impact how the
budget is prepared. He stated that there is a strategic plan for funding of bus service based on use.
• He stated that a citizen group worked on the primary and secondary service designations. He stated
that there is a distinct difference between streets and transportation service needs. He spoke
regarding the emergency services that would be provided if there were a major disaster. He stated
that buses would not be a priority need, while infrastructure would be a basic need. He stated that
a recent community survey indicated that the citizens would cut back on Transfort first if cutbacks
had to be made.
Councilmember Wanner stated that all parts of transportation are included in "transportation
services" and that all means of accomplishing the goal should be considered He stated that there
should be a broad definition of transportation and that transportation is a primary servici. He stated
that all tools should be considered to accomplish the goal of transportation mobility.
The vote on the motion was as follows: Yeas: Councilmembers Bertschy, Hamrick, Tharp and
Wanner. Nays: Councilmembers Kastein, Martinez and Weitkunat.
THE MOTION CARRIED
Councilmember Kastein asked what the plan is now. City Manager Fischbach stated that the
financial policies will need to be reviewed and that a Resolution will be brought back for Council
consideration stating "transportation services" rather than "streets" in primary services and removing
"Transfort" from secondary services.
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Councilmember Kastein asked if there would be any boards and commissions outreach. City
Manager Fischbach stated that this is a Council policy.
Other Business
Councilmember Tharp suggested looking at the recommendations from the Housing Task Force
report at a study session or staff memo to determine how the recommendations match the City's
housing strategies.
Councilmember Tharp asked about the possibility of more signage to ask vehicles to stop for
pedestrians in crosswalks as required by State law. She noted that this concern was brought to her
attention by the Commission on Disability. City Attorney Roy stated that he can research the State
law. City Manager Fischbach stated that he would prepare a response to the concern.
Councilmember Hamrick spoke regarding having the committee as a whole review committee topics
before discussion by the committee. City Manager Fischbach stated that the Council receives a
listing of the committees and agenda topics each week.
Councilmember Kastein stated that the Telecommunications Board has suggested a minor change
to its bylaws. City Manager Fischbach stated that the Council does not have to consider such
changes.
The meeting adjourned at 10:40 p.m.
AT'I EST:
City Clerk
Adjournment
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