HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES-05/03/2011-RegularMay 3, 2011
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, May 3, 2011, 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: Horak, Kottwitz, Manvel, Ohlson, Poppaw, Troxell and Weikunat.
Staff Members Present: Atteberry, Krajicek, Roy.
Citizen Participation
Dr. Terry Podmore, 733 Gilgalad Way, submitted and read a letter expressing concern regarding the
process for an upcoming Planning and Zoning Board meeting.
Heather Stickler, 633 Gilgalad Way, asked when developers' reputations and history are considered
during the Development Review process.
Doug Ernest, 1625 West Elizabeth, Poudre Landmarks Foundation President and Friends of the
Water Works member, discussed Item No. 19, First Reading of Ordinance No. 058, 2011,
Authorizing the Lease of the City's Historic Water Works Property at 2005 North Overland Trail
to the Poudre Landmarks Foundation.
Bill Miller, 322 Scott Avenue, Friends of the Water Works Chairperson, announced a June 4th event
called the Big Splash.
Peter Hall, 1750 Somerville Drive, Human Relations Commission Chairperson, reported on the
Human Relations Awards breakfast and announced the Holocaust Days of Remembrance, May 1 st-
8th.
Steve Yurash, 4821 Yellowstone Circle, Electric Boardmember, expressed concern regarding
consulting fees being paid to study Electric Utility rate changes. He suggested the AMI system
should be implemented prior to the study.
Eric Sutherland, 3520 Golden Currant, expressed concern regarding the City's handling of the Tim
Masters case.
Stacy Lynne, 216 Park Street, stated the City is providing fraudulent information regarding global
warming and climate change.
Brian Werner, Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District, and Diana Royval, City Water
Utility, announced the May 17th Children's Water Festival. -
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Citizen Participation Follow-up
Councilmember Troxell asked about Dr. Podmore's concerns regarding the Planning and Zoning
Board meeting process. City Manager Atteberry replied there will be a work session on June 14th .
regarding development review and planning issues. Karen Cumbo, Director of Planning,
Development, and Transportation, replied there will be two separate hearings for the ODP and the
PDP at the May 19th Planning and Zoning Board meeting.
Councilmember Troxell discussed Mr. Yurash's comments. Brian Janonis, Utilities Executive
Director, stated the consultant and staff will be attending next week's Council work session to
discuss the philosophy behind rates.
Mayor Pro Tern Ohlson recommended allowing citizens adequate response time for all items
discussed before the Planning and Zoning Board. City Attorney Roy replied the guidelines of the
Land Use Code should be followed as failure to do so would be grounds for appeal. Staff is
currently discussing whether or not the Code provides enough leeway to accommodate the request.
Any necessary changes will be brought forth as expeditiously as possible.
Councilmember Poppaw thanked Mr. Hall for his announcements and thanked the Human Relations
Commission for its work.
Agenda Review
City Manager Atteberry recommended postponement of Item No. 15, Second Reading of Ordinance
050, 2011, Authorizing the Conveyance of Two Pedestrian and Access Easements on City Right -of -
Way Adjacent to 200 South College Avenue to 314 E. Mountain, LLC, to May 17th.
CONSENT CALENDAR
6. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 041, 2011, Appropriating Unanticipated Revenue in the
Capital Projects Fund for the Building on Basics Lincoln Center Renovation Project.
The 32 year -old Lincoln Center's greatest challenge is its aging and outdated spaces.
Renovation of the facility is now underway to add 17,000 square feet and to renovate 55,000
square feet, with a focus on improving the patron experience, performer amenities, and
infusing new life into a community treasure. This Ordinance, unanimously adopted on First
Reading on April 19, 2011, will appropriate additional funding for the Lincoln Center
Renovation.
7. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 042, 2011, Appropriating Prior Year Reserves.
Ordinance No. 042, 2011, was unanimously adopted on First Reading on April 19, 2011.
The Ordinance appropriates prior year's reserves for expenditures authorized in 2010 by
Council but which could not be completed by the end of 2010.
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8. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 043, 2011, Appropriating Unanticipated Grant Revenue
in the General Fund for the Exterior Preservation and Reconstruction of the Avery Building.
This Ordinance, unanimously adopted on First Reading on April 19, 2011, appropriates
unanticipated revenue in the amount of $430,270 for the exterior preservation and
reconstruction of the Avery Building at the intersection of College and Mountain Avenue.
A grant provided by the Colorado Historical Society's State Historical Fund in the amount
of $215,135 will be matched by an equal amount of funds from the property owner (Avery
Building LLC).
9. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 044, 2011, Appropriating Prior Year Reserves in the
Transportation Services Fund for the Civic Center Parking Structure.
Parking reserves are accumulated in the Transportation Fund to perform major maintenance
and repair projects in the Civic Center Parking Structure. This Ordinance, unanimously
adopted on First Reading on April 19, 2011, appropriates funds from those reserves for three
projects: to complete an interior painting project that was started in 2009; make repairs to
the second level deck seal that forms the ceiling of Civic Center Village; and purchase a
piece of pressure washing equipment that will be used to keep the parking structure clean.
10. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 045, 2011, Amending Section 17-40 of the City Code
Pertaining to the Offense of Trespass.
The recently executed Construction and Maintenance Agreement with the Burlington
Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Railroad allowing the City's use of the railroad right-of-way for
Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) operations along the Mason Corridor, requires the enactment of
an ordinance specific to trespass on railroad property. This Ordinance, unanimously adopted
on First Reading on April 19, 2011, provides law enforcement the ability to self -initiate
enforcement action. With the addition of BRT service in the railroad right-of-way, the
potential for unauthorized access by vehicles and pedestrians poses a safety risk. It is in the
City's best interest to minimize these safety risks by limiting unlawful access to the railroad
right -of --way, which also includes the BRT guideway and specific areas on Mason Street
between intersections from Laurel Street to Vine Drive. A variety of physical barriers will
be installed with the project to minimize unlawful access, including signs and access control
gates. Law enforcement presence.and the issuing of citations related to this Ordinance will
improve safety along the corridor.
11. Second Reading Ordinance No. 046, 2011. Amending Ordinance No. 019, 1877 of the City
of Fort Collins Grantin Right -of -Way to the Colorado Central Railroad Company.
The recently executed Construction and Maintenance Agreement with the Burlington
Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Railroad allowing the City's use of the railroad right-of-way for
Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) operations along the Mason Corridor, requires an Amendment to
Ordinance No. 019, 1877. The original Ordinance permits the Colorado Central Railroad
Company (now BNSF) to build, construct, and operate a railroad in and through the town
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May 3, 2011
of Fort Collins through and along Mason Street from Laurel Street to Vine Drive. This
Ordinance, unanimously adopted on First Reading on April 19, 201-1, defines the width of
the right-of-way (currently undefined) at eighteen feet between 180 feet north of Laurel
Street and Vine Drive. The width of right -of- way is reduced to fourteen feet between Laurel
Street and 180 feet north of Laurel Street, to accommodate a southbound left turn lane. The
City will also periodically close the southbound left turn lane between Laurel Street and 180
feet north of Laurel Street to vehicular traffic at City expense in order to allow BNSF to use
mechanized equipment to maintain the track in the future.
12. Second Readiniz of Ordinance No. 047, 2011, Amending Sections 22-43 and 28-42 of the
City Code Relatiniz to Pavine and Maintenance of Streets, and Particularly as Affected by
the Mason Express Bus Rapid Transit Project.
The recently executed Construction and Maintenance Agreement with the Burlington
Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Railroad allowing the City's use of the railroad right-of-way for
Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) operations along the Mason Corridor, requires an Amendment to
City Code Sections 22-43 and 28-42. These City Code sections currently require railway
companies to pave and maintain that part of the street between the rails and two feet outside
each rail, as well as keep the rails on a level surface with the adjacent street. This
Ordinance, unanimously adopted on First Reading on April 19, 2011, modifies these Code
sections to allow the BNSF railroad to, at its expense, maintain open ballast track protected
by curb islands from Laurel Street to Vine Drive. Intersections in this length of Mason
Street are excluded and will stay in their current configuration to allow for turning traffic,
where appropriate. Once the project is complete, the track section confined by the islands
will not carry automobile traffic. Therefore it will not be necessary for pavement to be
maintained between the rails, or for the rail elevation to match the roadway elevation.
13. Second Readin4 of Ordinance No. 048, 2011, Vacating a Portion of Right -of -Way as
Dedicated on the Plat of South College Commercial Subdivision.
In 1977, the South College Commercial Subdivision, located south ofThunderbird Drive and
west of College Avenue, platted two tracts and public rights -of -way for South College
Avenue Frontage Road and McClelland Drive, adjacent to the parcel. This Ordinance,
unanimously adopted on First Reading on April 19, 2011, vacates the portion of the Frontage
Road that is the grassy area to the west of the paved travel way of the Frontage Road and the
sidewalk.
Vacations ofpublic right-of-way are governed by City Code Section 23-115, which provides
for an application and review process prior to submission to the City Council for formal
consideration. The process includes review by potentially affected utility agencies, City
staff, emergency service providers, and affected property owners in the vicinity of the right-
of-way proposed to be vacated. This review process was followed in connection with this
proposal, and based on comments received, the City Engineer has recommended that the
vacation be approved.
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14. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 049, 2011, Vacatingthe Right -of -Way for Star Dust Lane
as Dedicated on the Plat of Willow Brook.
In 2001, the Willow Brook Plat, located between Rock Creek Drive to the north and Kechter
Road to the southeast of Lady Moon Drive and west of Northern Lights Drive, platted
several lots and public streets. Star Dust Lane was originally dedicated to provide access
to Parcels A and B, located southeast of Rock Creek Drive and Lady Moon Drive. To date,
neither Parcel A nor B have been developed. This Ordinance, unanimously adopted on First
Reading on April 19, 2011, vacates the Star Dust right-of-way at the request of the owner,
to allow the parcels to be replatted into 61 single family lots that will be served by three new
internal streets taking access off of Galileo Drive.
Vacations of public right-of-way are governed by City Code Section 23-115, which provides
for an application and review process prior to submission to the City Council for formal
consideration. The process includes review by potentially affected utility agencies, City
staff, emergency service providers, and affected property owners in the vicinity of the right-
of-way proposed to be vacated. This review process was followed in connection with this
proposal, and based on comments received, the City Engineer has recommended that the
vacation be approved.
15. Second Reading of Ordinance 050, 2011, Authorizing the Conveyance of Two Pedestrian
and Access Easements on City Right -of -Way Adjacent to 200 South College Avenue to 314
E. Mountain, LLC.
314 E. Mountain, LLC (Applicant) recently purchased the first floor of the condominium
building at 200 South College Avenue, located at the southeast corner of College Avenue
and Oak Street. The Applicant is making some modifications to the first floor, some of
which are on the outside of the structure. Since the property line for this building is only
about a foot from the lot line, these structure modifications will be in the City right-of-way
(sidewalks of College and Oak). This Ordinance, unanimously adopted on First Reading on
April 19, 2011, authorizes two pedestrian and access easements to allow the installation of
stairs and ramps within the right-of-way on the north side of the building (Oak Street). This
Ordinance grants two easements, but does not vacate the City's right-of-way.
16. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 052, 2011, Repealing Ordinance No. 003, 2011, Making
Amendments to the City of Fort Collins Land Use Code Pertaining to the East Side and West
Side Neighborhoods.
On April 7, 2011, the City Clerk certified that a petition received from Barbara Hoehn on
Monday, March 14, 2011, requesting that Council repeal Ordinance No. 003, 2611 or refer
such ordinance to the registered voters of the city was sufficient to require further action by
the Council. On April 19, 2011, Council unanimously voted to repeal Ordinance No. 003,
2011 on First Reading.
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17. First Reading of Ordinance No. 056, 2011, Appropriating Unanticipated Grant Revenue in
the Recreation Fund for General Operating Support of the Adaptive Recreation
Opportunities Paralympic Sport Club Program.
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) has selected the Fort Collins
Recreation Department, Adaptive Recreation Opportunities program (ARO) to receive a
grant in the amount of $10,000. This grant opportunity is an outgrowth of a partnership
between NRPA and the United States Olympic Committee, Paralympic Division to provide
resources at the local level that will increase physical activity opportunities for injured
service members and veterans.
18. First Reading of Ordinance No. 057, 2011, Designating the Whistleman Mansion, 1502
South College Avenue, as a Fort Collins Landmark Pursuant to Chapter 14 of the City Code.
The owner of the property, Laura Green, is initiating this request for Fort Collins Landmark
designation for the property at 1502 South College Avenue. The property has individual
significance to Fort Collins, as a rare local example of Spanish Colonial/Mediterranean
Revival Style in Fort Collins.
19. First Reading of Ordinance No. 058, 2011, Authorizing the Lease of the City's Historic
Water Works Property at 2005 North Overland Trail to the Poudre Landmarks Foundation.
The City is the owner of the 25-acre property located at 2005 North Overland Trail. The
property has not been a part of the Water Utilities' operating infrastructure since 1904, yet
is a valuable historic resource. The Poudre Landmarks Foundation has leased the'property
since 1996 and desires to continue leasing the property for use as an interpretive
center/museum for water.
20. Resolution 2011-040 Authorizing the Mayor to Execute an Amendment with the Town of
Windsor and The Colorado Department of Transportation to Add Funding to the Design of
the Interstate 25/State Highway 392 Interchange Project.
The City of Fort Collins and the Town of Windsor have collaborated to plan and design the
I-25/SH-392 Interchange Project. Amending the Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) will
allow for the completion of the final design phase, moving the project into the construction
phase to be managed by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). This
Resolution approves an amendment to the IGA, adding $92,000 to the original $1,768,523
approved in the contract. CDOT will then reimburse the City for these expenditures.
***END CONSENT***
Ordinances on Second Reading were read by title by City Clerk Krajicek.
6. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 041, 2011, Appropriating Unanticipated Revenue in the
Capital Projects Fund for the Building on Basics Lincoln Center Renovation Project.
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7. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 042, 2011, Appropriating Prior Year Reserves.
8. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 043, 2011, Appropriating Unanticipated Grant Revenue
in the General Fund for the Exterior Preservation and Reconstruction of the Avery Building.
9. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 044, 2011, Appropriating Prior Year Reserves in the
Transportation Services Fund for the Civic Center Parking Structure.
10. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 045, 2011, Amending Section 17-40 of the City Code
Pertaining to the Offense of Trespass.
11. Second Reading Ordinance No. 046, 2011, Amending Ordinance No. 019, 1877 of the City
of Fort Collins Granting Right -of -Way to the Colorado Central Railroad Company.
12. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 047, 2011, Amending Sections 22-43 and 28-42 of the
City Code Relating to Paving and Maintenance of Streets, and Particularly as Affected by
the Mason Express Bus Rapid Transit Project.
13. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 048, 2011, Vacating a Portion of Right -of -Way as
Dedicated on the Plat of South College Commercial Subdivision.
14. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 049, 2011, Vacating the Right -of -Way for Star Dust'Lane
as Dedicated on the Plat of Willow Brook.
16. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 052, 2011, Repealing Ordinance No. 003, 2011, Making
Amendments to the City of Fort Collins Land Use Code Pertaining to the East Side and West
Side Neighborhoods.
Ordinances on First Reading were read by title by City Clerk Krajicek.
17. First Reading of Ordinance No. 056, 2011, Appropriating Unanticipated Grant Revenue in
the Recreation Fund for General Operating Support of the Adaptive Recreation
Opportunities Paralympic Sport Club Program.
18. First Reading of Ordinance No. 057, 2011, Designating the Whistleman Mansion, 1502
South College Avenue, as a Fort Collins Landmark Pursuant to Chapter 14 of the City Code.
19. First Reading of Ordinance No. 058, 2011, Authorizing the Lease of the City's Historic
Water Works Property at 2005 North Overland Trail to the Poudre Landmarks Foundation.
24. Hearing and First Reading of Ordinance No. 059, 2011, Authorizing Amendments to the
Intergovernmental Agreement Between the City and Poudre School District Pertaining to
the Land Dedication and In -Lieu Fee Requirements Contained,in Such Agreement.
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25. First Reading of Ordinance No. 060, 2011, Repealing And Reenacting Division 1, Article
IV of Chapter 15 of the City Code Relating To Door -To -Door Solicitation.
Councilmember Manvel made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Poppaw, to adopt and
approve all items not withdrawn from the Consent Calendar. Yeas: Weitkunat, Kottwitz, Manvel,
Ohlson, Poppaw, Horak and Troxell. Nays: none.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Staff Reports
Jon Haukass, Water Engineer Field Operations Manager, discussed the potential risk for spring
flooding given record snowfalls.
Mayor Pro Tem Ohlson asked that a beach -like graphic be eliminated from powerpoint
presentations.
Councilmember Horak asked if a presentation would be placed on Channel 14. Haukass replied a
flood preparedness week would occur later in the summer but information will be placed in the
Coloradoan at a sooner date. City Manager Atteberry agreed with Councilmember Horak's
suggestion and stated information would be placed on Channel 14.
City Manager Atteberry introduced Michael Short, the new Downtown Business Association
Executive Director, and Peggy Lyle, the interim Downtown Business Association Executive
Director.
Councilmember Reports
Mayor Weitkunat stated Council attended a regional meeting in Evans with neighboring
municipalities. Additionally, she attended her first Platte River Power Authority meeting as Mayor.
Ordinance No. 059, 2011
Authorizing Amendments to the Intergovernmental Agreement Between the City and
Poudre School District Pertaining to the Land Dedication and In -Lieu Fee Requirements
Contained in Such Agreement. Adopted on First Reading
The following is staff's memorandum for this item.
"EXECUTIVE SUMiVARY
Since 1998, the City of Fort Collins has collected a fee -in -lieu of land dedication for both Poudre
School District and Thompson School District. These fees allow a residential developer to pay a
school site fee to the School Districts rather than to dedicate a parcel of land to the District for
development of future schools. The ability of the school districts to require land dedication is
provided under State of Colorado Statute.
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The last time the amount of these fees was adjusted was in 2006 This Ordinance will lower the
amount of the fees the district receives by $200per dwelling unit. Poudre School District requested
a reduction in the fees collected because of the reduced cost ofsecuring appropriate school sites.
Thompson School District has not requested a change in fees.
BACKGROUND /DISCUSSION
In April, 1998, the City of Fort Collins and Thompson and Poudre School Districts entered into
Intergovernmental Agreements regarding land dedication for new developments, including a
provision for fees -in -lieu of land dedication. Poudre School District has asked that the amount of
the fees be decreased to reflect the current decreased cost of developed residential land. Thompson
School District has not requested a change in fees.
School districts in Colorado are allowed by state law to either require school site dedications from
residential developers or collect a fee -in -lieu of such land dedication. The calculation of this fee
must be closely tied to the cost of land to be dedicated, as well as a number of other factors
including school site size, student population projections, and enrollment capacities of each type
of school (elementary, junior high and high schools). Site sizes and enrollment capacities are set
by school district policy.
This reduction in the fees to be collected reflects the District's market analysis of land values, which
has declined over recent years. By State law, Colorado school districts are not permitted to collect
a fee for the cost of the construction of schools as part of the development process They do not have
the ability to obtain revenue from impact fees. In 1996, the Colorado Supreme Court found that
counties are limited to using the land dedication and fee -in -lieu provisions of the School Finance
Act because counties do not have the statutory authority to impose additional impact fees. Also,
while the School Finance Act acknowledges that municipalities may contribute to the funding of
school projects, the act makes it clear that impact fees cannot be a source of that funding.
The effect of the proposed change in per dwelling unit costs would be as follows:
Poudre School District:
Fee per dwelling unit: Current FeeRevised Fee
1-4 attached dwelling units $1,800 $1,600
S or more attached dwelling units $ 900 $ 800
The City's Intergovernmental Agreements with Poudre School District allows for periodic updates
to the fees and land dedication requirements. Since adoption of the current fee in 2006, Poudre
School District has reviewed its fees every two years, each time electing to leave the fees at the 2006
rate.
The agreement also requires that the City conduct a public hearing prior to any changes in the fee
or land requirement. The Poudre School Board has reviewed its methodology for this program and
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requested that the City Council approve this revision. The detailed methodology for calculating the
fees are provided in Exhibits A and B of the Ordinance.
FINANCL9L /ECONOMIC IMPACTS
The proposed ordinance will not have a financial impact on the City of Fort Collins because the fees
are collected on behalf of Poudre School District. Revenues from the fees will pass through City
accounts and will not affect City revenue limits under Article X, Section 20.
This Ordinance implements a fee reduction requested by Poudre School District. The reduced fee
will serve to reduce the cost of residential development in the community by reducing fees collected
at the time of building permit by $200 per single family unit. Multi family unit fees (over 5 units)
are reduced by $100 per dwelling unit. "
Ann Tumquist, Policy and Project Manager, discussed the land dedication process, including the fee
in -lieu option and stated Poudre School District has recommended a reduction in the fee in -lieu
amount.
Mayor Pro Tern Ohlson suggested some of the impact of new schools be borne by impact fees on
the construction of new homes. He asked if it would be legal for the City to levee an impact fee for
the construction of new schools. City Attorney Roy stated he could not answer that question
immediately but would provide a response.
Councilmember Manvel made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Troxell, to adopt Ordinance
No. 059, 2011, on First Reading.
Mayor Pro Tern Ohlson stated he would not support the motion as he disagrees with the fee decrease
and supports an impact fee.
Councilmember Manvel agreed new citizens should pay for new schools; however, he would
support the motion as there should be a connection between the collection of these monies for land
and expenditures on land.
Councilmember Horak stated he would support the motion but also supported exploring impact fees.
He asked about the status of this issue with Thompson School District. Tumquist replied the City
has an IGA with Thompson Schools with the same type of fee. TSD did not reduce its fee this year.
The vote on the motion was as follows: Yeas: Weitkunat, Kottwitz, Manvel, Poppaw, Horak and
Troxell. Nays:Ohlson.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
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Ordinance No. 060, 2011
Repealing And Reenacting Division 1, Article IV of Chapter 15
of the Citv Code Relating To Door -To -Door Solicitation, Adopted on First Reading
The following is staff's memorandum for this item.
"EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The City ofFort Collins currently has an ordinance prohibiting door-to-door residential solicitation
by commercial businesses, often referred to as a "Green River Ordinance. " The proposed
ordinance would replace the current total ban on commercial door-to-door residential solicitation
with a City -issued permitsystem licensing and regulating such solicitation. As is currently the case,
all door-to-door solicitation, whether commercial or non-commercial, would be prohibited under
the proposed ordinance by a "No Trespassing" or a "No Solicitation " sign posted at a public or
private premises. Additionally, the proposed ordinance would allow for an alternative option for
residents who wish to prevent solicitors from soliciting at their residence, which would be to register
their address on a City -maintained "No Solicitation " List.
BACKGROUND /DISCUSSION
Since 1938, the City ofFort Collins has had a "Green River Ordinance " which prohibits door-to-
door residential solicitation by commercial businesses. This Ordinance has been effective in
eliminating unwanted solicitorsfrom approaching individual residences with the goal ofprotecting
the privacy and safety interests of City residents.
The current Ordinance prohibits all door-to-door solicitation, whether commercial or non-
commercial, on both public and private property when there is a "No Trespassing" or a "No
Solicitation " sign posted on the premises. It prohibits door-to-door commercial solicitation at
residential premises whether or not a sign is posted on the premises with the exception ofcharitable,
religious or political solicitations or the solicitation of newspapers or magazines.
The City's total ban on commercial door-to-door solicitation at residential premises is currently
being challenged in federal district court. Because of the uncertainty and expense of litigation, staff
is asking City Council to consider changes to the ordinance that would bring the City's regulations
more in line with the approach that many other Colorado cities have taken.
There is a related provision under Section 17-42 of the Code which prohibits the posting of notices
and handbills on public property without permission and private property if a "No Trespassing, "
"No Soliciting, " or "No Posting " sign is present, access has been restricted by the owner, or the
owner has given notice that the posting is prohibited. This provision will remain in the Code.
Current Proposal
The current solicitation ordinance would be repealed and replaced with the proposed ordinance.
The proposed ordinance is referred to as the Fort Collins Door -To -Door Solicitation Ordinance.
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It would replace the current total ban on commercial door-to-door residential solicitation with a
permit system regulating such solicitation. Residential commercial solicitors would be required to
wear a City -issued photo identification badge, complete a criminal history background check, and
would be prohibited from soliciting in the City if the background check indicates a felony or class
one misdemeanor conviction. The hours ofsolicitation would be limited to between 8:00 a.m. and
one half hour after sunset.
Non-commercial solicitations are not regulated under the current ordinance and would remain
unregulated under the proposed ordinance. By law, non-commercial solicitations include things
such as religious andpolitical contacts, fitndraisers forschools and other tax-exempt organizations,
and the sale of newspaper and magazine subscriptions.
As is currently the case, all door-to-door solicitation, whether commercial or non-commercial,
would be prohibited by a "No Trespassing" or a "No Solicitation" sign posted at a particular
residence.
Staff also proposes to develop a "No Solicitation " list to be maintained on the City's web site.
Residents would be able to prohibit door-to-door solicitation at their property by registering their
address with the City. Residents would complete a form on the City's website requesting that their
addresses appear on the "No Solicitation " list which will be provided to permitted solicitors.
Solicitors would be required to check the "No Solicitation " list and ensure that they do not solicit
at any of the addresses active on the list. Solicitation at a residence that has been on the list for 30
days or more would constitute a Code violation. Every two years, each address would be required
to renew the request in order to remain on the "No Solicitation " list.
FINANCL4L /ECONOMIC IMPACTS
Companies seeking a permit for door-to-door solicitation would be charged a fee aimed at covering
the City's costs for issuing the permit and producing the identification badge required of each
individual solicitor. Solicitors will also be required to obtain and maintain a valid sales tax license
and remit appropriate sales tar to the City.
The ability of businesses to solicit customers though door-to-door sales may provide some economic
benefit to the community, but staff does not project a significant impact on City revenues. "
Ann Tumquist, Policy and Project Manager, stated the current door-to-door solicitation Ordinance
prohibits all door-to-door solicitation by commercial businesses but does not prohibit non-
commercial solicitation. Residents may prohibit all solicitation by posting "no soliciting" signs.
The proposed Ordinance regulates solicitation rather than prohibiting it altogether. Permits and
background checks would be required for commercial solicitation. Additionally, hours would be
limited. A "no solicitation" list will be maintained to allow residents to register their address to
prohibit all commercial and non-commercial solicitations for a period of two years. The City should
begin issuing permits about June 10.
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Ross Cunniff, 2267 Clydesdale, expressed concern about residents' privacy and the ability of Girl
Scouts or other non -profits to sell door-to-door. He stated the two-year limit on the "non
solicitation" list should not exist.
Peter Hall, 1750 Somerville Drive, agreed with Mr. Cunniff and stated the solicitation hours should
be more restrictive. He asked how "no solicitation" signs are supposed to be displayed.
Stacy Lynne, 216 Park Street, opposed restricting businesses. She asked how much the permit will
cost and whether or not all City of Fort Collins employees and elected officials must submit to
background checks.
City Manager Atteberry replied City employees in safety -sensitive positions are required to submit
to a background check and all new employees must submit to drug testing.
Mayor Weitkunat asked that staff address Mr. Hall's question. Turnquist replied "no soliciting"
signs must be posted at or near the entrance or entrances to the premises.
Mayor Weitkunat asked that staff address the recommendation to restrict hours for door to door
solicitation. City Attorney Roy stated the time restriction could be revisited prior to Second
Reading.
Mayor Weitkunat asked about the cost of the permit. Turnquist replied staff has yet to calculate an
exact dollar amount but the goal will be to cover the direct administrative costs, including staff time
for paperwork processing, actual costs for badges, and the cost for maintaining the "no solicitation"
list. It is currently estimated the permits will cost between $50 and $100 each. In 2009, a specific
outreach about this topic was placed on the City's webpage resulting in 300 to 400 responses which
were overwhelmingly against making changes to the existing Ordinance.
Councilmember Kottwitz asked if an opt -in option was considered rather than an opt -out. City
Attorney Roy replied in the negative.
Councilmember Kottwitz asked how moving and changes of address would be handled. Turnquist
replied that has yet to be fully outlined.
Councilmember Kottwitz asked how Girl Scouts could be differentiated. City Attorney Roy replied
Council has the option to make the opt -out list applicable to only commercial solicitations.
Councilmember Kottwitz asked about potential costs of the Ordinance and fines for violating the
Ordinance. Turnquist replied that information will be provided for Second Reading.
Councilmember Troxell asked if the badges would show any representations of the City of Fort
Collins. Turnquist replied the badges would likely have a phrase indicated the license was granted
by the City but there would be no City logo.
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Councilmember Troxell asked about renewals for the opt -out list. Tumquist replied the City would
likely send an e-mail notification indicating the two-year opt -out is about to expire and directing
individuals to renew the opt -out.
Mayor Pro Tern Ohlson asked why these changes have been proposed given the overwhelming
citizen opposition. City Attorney Roy replied the City has been in litigation for the past year and
it is advisable to make these changes at this time.
Councilmember Horak asked who has taken the City to court. City Attorney Roy replied the City
is currently in litigation with Royal Crest Dairy.
Councilmember Manvel made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Troxell, to adopt Ordinance
No. 060, 2011, as revised, on First Reading.
City Attorney Roy read the revisions to the Ordinance.
Councilmember Manvel supported the way staff has revised the Ordinance as it gives citizens
options.
Councilmember Troxell expressed support for the existing Ordinance but stated he would support
the motion.
Councilmember Horak supported the changes but suggested the timeline be increased for additional
public input.
Councilmember Poppaw agreed with Councilmember Horak.
Councilmember Manvel opposed delaying the vote.
Executive Session Authorized
Councilmember Poppaw made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Manvel, to go into Executive
Session, as permitted under Section 2-31(a)(2) of the City Code, for the purpose of meeting with the
attorneys for the City and affected members of City Staff to discuss pending litigation and related
legal issues. Yeas: Weitkunat, Kottwitz, Manvel, Ohlson, Poppaw, Horak and Troxell. Nays: none.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
(At this time, Council adjourned into executive session and reconvened the meeting at 8:20 p.m.)
City Attorney Roy noted the item may be time sensitive as parties to the litigation are due back in
federal district court on June 1 Oth to advise the judge as to the status of the case.
Councilmember Manvel asked for additional discussion regarding the allowed solicitation hours
prior to Second Reading.
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The vote on the motion was as follows: Yeas: Weitkunat, Kottwitz, Manvel, Poppaw, Horak and
Troxell. Nays:Ohlson.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Other Business
Councilmember Horak suggested responses should be sent to citizens who comment at Council
meetings, as they are to citizens who send a -mails or other correspondence. City Attorney Roy
stated verbal responses are provided at the meeting if possible, with follow-up as necessary.
Mayor Weitkunat noted Council will be having a workshop Friday and Saturday and will place the
topic on the agenda.
Councilmember Poppaw noted the workshop is open to the public. City Manager Atteberry stated
the Friday meeting will held at Primrose Artists Studio from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m. and the Saturday
meeting will be held at Tamasag from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
Councilmember Horak noted the Poudre Fire Authority Board is short one member and he suggested
appointing an interim member as tomorrow's Board meeting will involve the Fire Chief hiring
process.
Councilmember Poppaw made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Manvel, to appoint
Councilmember Horak as an interim member to the Poudre Fire Authority Board.
City Attorney Roy noted Council will need to first make a finding that it would be contrary to the
public interest to postpone this action.
Councilmembers Poppaw and Manvel withdrew the motion.
Councilmember Poppaw made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Manvel, that it would be
contrary to the public interest to delay consideration of this interim appointment.
City Manager Atteberry noted the current Council representatives on the PFA Board are
Councilmember Kottwitz and himself. Additionally, City Attorney Roy will also be present.
Mayor Weitkunat stated she would also be interested in serving on the Board.
Councilmember Manvel supported the motion to consider an interim appointment.
Councilmember Poppaw expressed interest in serving on the Board.
Councilmember Kottwitz disagreed that postponing the interim appointment would be detrimental
to the public interest.
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May 3, 2011
Mayor Pro Tern Ohlson asked why the PFA Board would need to go into Executive Session to
discuss hiring a new Fire Chief. City Manager Atteberry replied the Executive Session will deal
with legal issues and to conduct interviews with four internal employees for the interim Chief
position. The recruitment process will be discussed publicly.
Ross Cunniff, 2267 Clydesdale, supported having full Council representation on the PFA Board.
The vote on the motion was as follows: Yeas: Weitkunat, Manvel, Ohlson, Poppaw, Horak and
Troxell. Nays: Kottwitz.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Councilmember Poppaw made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Manvel, to appoint
Councilmember Horak as an interim•member to the Poudre Fire Authority Board, until a permanent
appointment is made on May 17.
Councilmember Kottwitz asked if any other Councilmembers would be interested in the interim
position and how much Councilmember Horak has been following PFA. Councilmember Horak
replied he has followed the PFA Board since it was formed and has a great deal of interest in how
the Authority is being structured and how a Chief will be appointed.
Councilmember Poppaw stated she would be interested in being on the Board permanently;
however, this interim position is not a precursor to the permanent appointment.
Mayor Pro Tern Ohlson supported the interim appointment.
Mayor Weitkunat supported the interim appointment.
The vote on the motion was as follows: Yeas: Weitkunat, Kottwitz Manvel, Ohlson, Poppaw, Horak
and Troxell. Nays: none.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m.
ATTEST: OF FORT COlC2
SEAL•;
City Clerk
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