HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES-12/03/1996-RegularDecember 3; 1996
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS, COLORADO
Council -Manager Form of Government
Regular Meeting - 6:30 p.m.
A regular meeting of the Council of the City of Fort Collins was held on Tuesday, December 3,
1996, at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the City of Fort Collins City Hall. Roll Call was
answered by the following Councilmembers: Azari, Janett, Kneeland, McCluskey, Smith and
Wanner.
Councilmembers Absent: Apt.
Staff Members Present: Fischbach, Roy, Krajicek.
Citizen Participation
Bob Gifford, 1813 Essex Drive, requested information regarding speed humps on Stuart Street, and
questioned if the City would loose any Police Officers due to the new federal law regarding domestic
violence.
Al Baccili, 520 Galaxy Court, requested a response from Council regarding taxes on food and on
vendor fees. He asked how proof of insurance could be required when ticketed by camera radar.
John Meleski, 2619 Featherstar Way, commented on proposed changes to the City Charter and
requested Council hold a formal hearing to discuss those changes.
Mary Bates, 609 Duke, thanked those who signed petitions calling for a Citizen Review Board.
Citizen Participation Follow-up
Councilmember Smith stated the Transportation Advisory Board discussed speed hump issues and
stated drastic changes would not be proposed but the rise and fall distance is being discussed. He
stated the City Manager would address camera radar issues in the future.
Director of Finance Alan Krcmarik responded to Mr. Baccili's questions regarding collection of
sales tax on food, commenting food sales are a large part of sales tax collected and reporting that
collections of those taxes go into the General Fund. He spoke of the Rebate Program for sales tax
paid by senior and low income residents and noted citizens could contact the Finance Department
if interested.
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December 3, 1996
Councilmember Smith clarified changes to the Charter would be presented in the form of an
Ordinance and stated there would be adequate time for Council to receive public input.
Mayor Azari clarified that under staff reports, staff will report on camera radar issues. She stated
she received a ticket in the mail herself.
Assistant City Attorney John Duval responded to Mr. Gifford's questions regarding officers
potentially effected by the federal law relating to the carrying of guns by persons convicted of
domestic violence crimes. He outlined what the federal law says, stated governments used to be
exempt from this law and added that the amendment states that anyone convicted of domestic
violence would not be allowed to possess guns and ammunition.
Agenda Review
City Manager John Fischbach stated there were no changes to the Agenda as published.
Al Bacilli, 520 Galaxy Court, requested Item #17, Resolution 96-145 Nominating a New
Representative from the City to the Larimer Emergency Telephone Authority, be withdrawn from
the Consent Agenda.
**"CONSENT CALENDAR***
This Calendar is intended to allow the City Council to spend its time and energy on the important
items on a lengthy agenda. Staff recommends approval of the Consent Calendar. Anyone may
request an item on this calendar to be "pulled" off the Consent Calendar and considered separately.
Agenda items pulled from the Consent Calendar by the Public will be considered separately under
Agenda Item 914, Public Pulled Consent Items.
Second Readina of Ordinance No. 143, 1996, Authorizing the Execution of a Ouit Claim
Deed By and Between the City of Fort Collins as Grantor and Gene R. Little as Grantee.
This Ordinance, which was unanimously adopted on First Reading on November 19, 1996,
authorizes the execution of a Quit Claim Deed to Gene R. Little.
8. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 144, 1996, Amending Section 8 of the Code of the City
of Fort Collins Relating to Purchasing Changes.
This Ordinance, which was unanimously adopted on First Reading on November 19, 1996,
amends Chapter 8, Article IV Section 8 of the Code, relating to purchasing and contracting
was last updated in 1990.
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December 3, 1996
9. First Reading of Ordinance No. 145, 1996, Vacating a Portion of the Drainage Easement on
Chism Property.
The City received a dedication of a 65 feet wide x 280 feet long drainage easement from
Chism Homes, Inc. along the south property line of the Chism Property located on the east
side of South Shields Street. The drainage easement was dedicated for a proposed channel
identified in the McClelland's & Mail Creek Master Drainage Plan.
The Master Drainage Plan has since been revised to include additional detention upstream
of the channel, thus reducing the width of the easement required along the Chism Property.
The new proposed channel is 40 feet wide x 558.46 feet along the south property line.
Chism Homes, Inc. has agreed to dedicate the new easement to the City in exchange for the
vacation of the northerly twenty-five feet of the old easement.
10. First Reading of Ordinance No 146, 1996 Amending Ordinance No 24 1996 Regarding
the Landmark Rehabilitation Grant Program
The proposed amendment to Ordinance No. 24, 1996, removes one of the criteria of the
program that states that those property owners who have received grants in prior years will
be of lower priority for funding. By removing this requirement, larger and phased projects
will not be discouraged from applying year after year.
11. First Reading of Ordinance No. 147, 1996, Amending Chapter 26, Article IX. Section 26-632
of the City Code Regarding the Deferral of Fees for Affordable Housing,
In order for an affordable housing developer to utilize the benefits of the Development
Impact Fee Delay Program, it is currently a requirement for the City to demand a letter of
credit to secure payment of the fees being delayed. While this requirement provides the City
with protection against any default in payment of delayed fees, it also provides a financial
barrier to affordable housing developers. This financial barrier stems from the fees charged
by financial institutions in issuing a letter of credit. To alleviate this impediment it is
necessary to consider a measure that both secures payment of fees to the City and lessens the
financial impact on the affordable housing developer. This may be achieved by basing
issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the affordable housing project on payment of the
delayed impact fees.
12. First Reading of Ordinance No 148, 1996 Appropriating $55 000 from the Use Tar
Carryover Reserve to Purchase a Surety Bond for the 1993 Sales and Use Tax Revenue
Refunding Bonds.
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December 3, 1996
City Council has approved Ordinance No. 140, 1996 that substitutes a bond surety agreement
for a previously required sales and use tax bond reserve fund. The cost of such a surety for
the 1993 sales and use tax bonds is $55,000. This is a one-time cost that will allow the City
to realize approximately $84,000 per year in arbitrage savings.
13. First Reading of Ordinance No. 149, 1996, Appropriating Prior Year Reserves in the Benefits
Fund to Cover Medical Insurance Claims.
Due to extraordinary claims costs in the City's medical insurance plans, $1,000,000 is being
requested from the City's medical insurance reserve account. Medical insurance reserve
accounts are established for this purpose and are fully funded based on recommendations
from the City's Benefits Consultant.
14. Items Relating to the Law Enforcement Assistance Fund Contract with the Colorado
Department of Transportation Providing Funds for the Fort Collins Police Services
Substance Abuse Prevention Program for 1996-1997.
A. Resolution 96-143 Approving, and Authorizing the Mayor to Execute, the Alcohol
Incentive Grant Contract #97-410-7B Between the City and the Colorado Department
of Transportation.
B. First Reading of Ordinance No. 150, 1996, Appropriating Unanticipated Revenue in
the General Fund for the Fort Collins Police Services Substance Abuse Prevention
Program.
Police Services has been awarded a grant totaling $27,000 from the Colorado Department
of Transportation for the prevention of substance abuse. This prevention program targets
underage drinking by utilizing student involvement, education, and enforcement.
15. First Reading of Ordinance No. 151, 1996, Amending Chapter 2. Division III of the City
Code Pertaining to the Procedure for Hearing Appeals to the City Council.
This Ordinance would amend the appeals provision of the City Code so as to require that any
written information to be submitted to the Council by parties -in -interest for the Council's
consideration at the appeal hearing be submitted no later than 12:00 noon on the Wednesday
preceding the appeal hearing. The purpose of this revision is to give the Council adequate
time to review the submittals.
16. Resolution 96-144 Authorizing a Street Name Change for One Street in the Westbury PUD.
Second Filing.
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December 3, 1996
The developer of Westbury PUD would like to change the name of a street in the Westbury
PUD, Second Filing. The change would be as follows:
Madison Court changed to Olt Court.
The name change is requested in order to eliminate a similarity with Madison Creek Court
in the Stetson Creek PUD, First Filing.
The name change request was routed to all potentially affected City Departments and outside
service providers. No problems or concerns regarding the proposed name change were
reported.
17. Resolution 96-145 Nominating a New Representative from the City to the I arimer
Emergency Telephone Authority.
Ordinance No. 164, 1989, authorized the Mayor to enter into an intergovernmental
agreement with other governing bodies located within Larimer County, to create the Larimer
Emergency Telephone Authority (the "Authority") and further provides that the City shall
nominate one person to the governing board of the Authority. Deputy Chief O'Dell was
appointed to complete former Chief Fred Rainguet's term on the Board in August, 1996.
That term expires on December 31, 1996. Staff recommends the appointment of Deputy
Chief O'Dell to serve a two-year term.
18. Resolution 96-146 Making an Appointment to the Library Board
A vacancy currently exists on the Library Board due to the resignation of Linda Knowlton.
Applications were solicited and interviews were conducted by Councilmember Kneeland and
Mayor Azari. The interview team is recommending Joanne Monath to fill the vacancy with
a term to begin immediately and to expire June 30, 1997.
19. Routine Deeds and Easements.
A. Deed of Dedication from USAG Capital and Leasing, Inc. to dedicate Tract B,
Nokomis Subdivision. (A major component of the Evergreen/Greenbriar Master
Plan is the outfall from the Evergreen West Pond.) Monetary consideration: $0.
Items on Second Reading were read by title by City Clerk Wanda Krajicek.
Second Reading of Ordinance No 143, 1996 Authorizing the Execution of a Ouit Claim
Deed By and Between the City of Fort Collins as Grantor and Gene R. Little as Grantee
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December 3, 1996
Second Reading of Ordinance No. 144, 1996, Amending Section 8 of the Code of the City
of Fort Collins Relating to Purchasing Changes.
Items on First Reading were read by title by City Clerk Wanda Krajicek.
First Reading of Ordinance No. 145, 1996, Vacating a Portion of the Drainage Easement on
Chism Property.
10. First Reading of Ordinance No. 146, 1996, Amending Ordinance No. 24, 1996, Ref a� riling
the Landmark Rehabilitation Grant Pro rg am.
11. First Reading of Ordinance No. 147, 1996, Amending Chapter 26, Article IX. Section 26-632
of the City Code Regarding the Deferral of Fees for Affordable Housing,
12. First Reading of Ordinance No. 148, 1996, Appropriating $55,000 from the Use Tax
Carryover Reserve to Purchase a Surety Bond for the 1993 Sales and Use Tax Revenue
Refunding Bonds.
13. First Reading of Ordinance No. 149, 1996, Appropriating Prior Year Reserves in the Benefits
Fund to Cover Medical Insurance Claims.
14. First Reading of Ordinance No. 150, 1996, Appropriating Unanticipated Revenue in the
General Fund for the Fort Collins Police Services Substance Abuse Prevention Program.
15. First Reading of Ordinance No. 151, 1996, Amending Chapter 2. Division III of the City
Code Pertaining to the Procedure for Hearing Appeals to the City Council.
25. First Reading of Ordinance No. 151 1996, Amending Section 2-581 of the Code of the City
of Fort Collins and Setting the Compensation of the City Attorney.
26. First Reading of Ordinance No. 153, 1996, Amending Section 2-596 of the Code of the City
of Fort Collins and Setting the Compensation of the City Manager.
27. First Reading of Ordinance No. 154, 1996, Amending Section 2-606 of the Code of the City
of Fort Collins and Setting the Compensation of the Municipal Judge.
Councilmember McCluskey made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Smith, to adopt and
approve all items not removed from the Consent Agenda. Yeas: Councilmembers Azari, Kneeland,
Janett, McCluskey, Smith and Wanner. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
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December 3, 1996
Resolution 96-145
Nominating a New Representative from the City
to the Larimer Emergency Telephone Authority, Adopted.
The following is staff s memorandum on this item.
"Executive Summary
Ordinance No. 164, 1989, authorized the Mayor to enter into an intergovernmental agreement with
other governing bodies located within Larimer County, to create the Laritner Emergency Telephone
Authority (the "Authority') and further provides that the City shall nominate one person to the
governing board of the Authority. Deputy Chief O'Dell was appointed to complete former Chief
Fred Rainguet's term on the Board in August, 1996 That term expires on December 31, 1996. Stcff
recommends the appointment of Deputy Chief O'Dell to serve a two-year term. "
Councilmember Kneeland made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Wanner, to adopt
Resolution 96-145.
Al Bacilli, 520 Galaxy Court, stated the LETA fee was suppose to be reduced from $.50 to $.25 and
asked questioned what the funds are used for.
Mayor Azari requested LETA provide a status report and update.
The vote of Councilmember Kneeland's motion was as follows: Yeas: Councilmembers Azari,
Kneeland, Janett, McCluskey, Smith and Wanner. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Consideration of the Appeal of the October 9, 1996,
Determinations of the Current Planning Director Regarding
the Conditions of Ordinance No. 143, 1995, Postponed to January 7.
The following is staff s memorandum on this item.
"Executive Summary
This appeal arises not under the provisions of the City Code, but under the provisions of
Ordinance No. 143, 1995 ("the Ordinance'). By adoption of the Ordinance on November 21,
1995, the Council placed the subject property of this appeal, known as the Dry Creek Annexation
("the Property "), into the MM, Medium Density Mobile Home District. The property is zoned MM
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December 3, 1996
-Medium Density Mobile Home. It is located west ofSummit View Drive, south of East Vine Drive,
north of East Mulberry Street, and east of the Fort Collins Downtown Airport. The proposed
development project for the Property, known as the Dry Creek Mobile Home Park, is located on 52.5
acres and will consist of 241 mobile home spaces in Phase 1, with a possible second phase with an
unknown number ofspaces.
By adoption of the Ordinance, certain conditions were attached to the Zoning of the Property, as
permitted by Section 29-45 of the City Code. The conditions were intended to ensure that any
development of the Property, including the Dry Creek Mobile Home Park, would adequately
address concerns related to: (1) the traffic that would be generated by the Property, (2) the on -site
and off -site wetlands located on and near the Property, and (3) particular landscaping needs
associated with the proposed development of the Property as a mobile home park. The Ordinance
required the developer of the Property to submit to the Director of Community Planning and
Environmental Services ("the Director") certain studies and reports related to each of the
foregoing concerns. Upon receipt of the studies and reports, the Director was to notify affected
property owners (within a 1,000 foot radius of the Property) of the existence of the studies and
reports so that they could have an opportunity to review the same and comment upon them prior
to the Director determining whether the conditions of the Ordinance had been satisfied. After
making those determinations, the Director was to then send additional notices to the same affected
property owners so that they could decide whether to appeal any or all of his determinations. The
determinations to be made by the Director were, in fact, delegated to the Director of Current
Planning ("the Planning Director').
The Planning Director's determinations were made on or about October 9, 1996. Notice of those
determinations were sent to the affected property owners and an appeal was filed by four parties -
in -interest on October 29, 1996. The appellants are: James A. Dinsmore, on behalf of Ultimate
Support Systems, Inc.; A. J. Glaser; Ed and Jean Laudick; and Gene Barker.
The Planning Director determined that the traffic study, wetlands study, and site/landscape plan for
the Property are adequate for a conceptual level of evaluation of the proposed development, in
compliance with the Ordinance. The determination stated that the next step in the process is for the
applicant to submit a subdivision plat and the required detailed documentation for review.
The attached documents include:
the appeal
Ordinance No. 143,1995
the Current Planning Department response to the appeal
December 3, 1996
* Letter to Residents, dated September 3, 1996, from Stephen Olt, Current Planning
Department, notifying them of the City's receipt of documentation submitted to the
City for review in compliance with Ordinance No. 143, 1995
* Response letter to Don Parsons, dated October 9, 1996, from Robert Blanchard,
Current Planning Director, with a determination on the documentation submitted to
the City for review
* Letter to Residents, dated October 11, 1996, from Stephen Olt, Current Planning
Department, notifying them of the City's determination on the documentation
submitted for review. The Affected Property Owners list is attached This scare list
was used to mail the letter on September 3.
* Traffic Analysis for the Dry Creek Mobile Home Park
* Conceptual Wetlands Mitigation Plan for the Dry Creek Mobile Home Park
* Set of plans consisting of.
- Dry Creek Site Plan Option A
- Dry Creek Site Plan Option B
- Dry Creek Conceptual Cul-De-Park Layout
- Dry Creek Conceptual Landscape Plan
- Dry Creek Enhancement Plan, Figure I
In deciding the appeal, the Council should receive and consider the reports and studies considered
by the Planning Director, as well as the evidence and arguments advanced by the parries -in -interest.
At the conclusion of the hearing, the Council should decide whether to uphold, overturn or modify
the Planning Director's decision. Alternatively, the matter could also be remanded by the Council
with direction to further consider any particular issues raised during the appeal in light of the
evidence presented to the Council. "
Lucia Liley, representing Dry Creek, requested this item be postponed to January 7, 1997. She
stated several legal issues have arisen there may be ways to resolve some of them.
Jim Martell, attorney for the Appellant, concurred with statements by Ms. Liley.
COUncilmember Janett made a motion, seconded by Councilmember McCluskey, to postpone Item
#23, Consideration of the Appeal of the October 9, 1996, Determinations of the Current Planning
Director Regarding the Conditions of Ordinance No. 143, 1995, to January 7, 1997. Yeas:
Councilmembers Azari, Kneeland, Janett, McCluskey, Smith and Wanner. Nays: None.
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Staff Reports
December 3, 1996
Director of Administrative Services Pete Dallow introduced the new Human Rights Officer, Laurie
Fonken-Joseph.
City Clerk Wanda Krajicek presented the Citizen Review Board Petition to Council and clarified that
staff is not asking for Council action tonight but will be bringing Council an agenda item on
December 17. She explained the options available to Council on December 17.
Director of Finance Alan Krcmarik and Purchasing Director Jim O'Neill gave a staff report on the
status of the sale of the Provincetowne property. He stated staff has drafted a 9 page written
response to citizen concerns and briefly outlined the issues that were addressed. He spoke of staff s
direction for sale of SID property and of financing for these types of property sales. He stated staff
responded to concerns brought up by Patricia Roberts and stated the property was acquired by the
City through a tax sale. He noted the property was offered at Latimer County's tax sale and there
were no bidders so the City began the process of taking back the property. He clarified that to avoid
any perceived conflict of interest on the part of the City, land -use contingencies are not included in
any sales agreements. He reported bids for the property were solicited from over 150 companies but
only received two offers were received. He stated Council directed that certain requirements
regarding affordable housing be considered. He spoke of the ordinance allowing the City to finance
infrastructure, ie., streets, water and sewer, etc.
City Manager John Fischbach reported on an organizational assessment regarding the City's
environmental practices and stated the report assesses how the City complies with existing
environmental laws. He stated implementation of the assessment is being discussed as well as the
possibility of hiring an environmental compliance officer.
Environmental Planner Susie Gordon gave a brief report and overview of the recently completed
environmental assessment. She reported on the internal ad -hoc team created to look at ways to
reduce hazard waste throughout the community.
Councilmember Janett thanked staff for its work on the audit and stated she hoped it would set a
precedent for the rest of the community to follow.
City Manager John Fischbach commented speed limit compliance rates and accident rates have been
greatly reduced due to camera radar.
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December 3. 1996
City Attorney Steve Roy recommended that the summons and complaint form be revised and spoke
of the options that would appear on the form.
Assistant City Attorney John Duval clarified that sending tickets by first class mail would not cost
the offender additional money, but stated if a summons and complaint is served or sent via certified
mail, and accepted but disregarded, a default judgement could be imposed. He spoke of the
provisions for proving insurance coverage.
City Manager John Fischbach responded to Council questions regarding duplicate tickets being sent
stating the company who the City contracts sent letters to those who were double billed, apologizing
for their error.
Councilmember Smith reported that he received feedback from citizens that photo radar would be
preferred rather than traffic calming devices (speed humps) in certain neighborhoods.
Councilmember Reports
Councilmember Smith reported the Public Access Committee met and discussed the City's
involvement in telecommunications and how the City would participate in the creation of
telecommunication infrastructure. He stated a proposed telecommunications ordinance was
discussed.
Councilmember Kneeland stated the Health and Safety Committee met and reported Assistant City
Attorney John Duval made a presentation to the Committee regarding the proposed tobacco
ordinance. She stated the proposal Council would receive would first be reviewed by the Youth
Advisory Board so that its comments can be included as part of the background information.
Councilmember Smith clarified for the audience, that the Ordinance Council would soon be
considering would make it illegal for under age persons to possess tobacco products. He stated the
December Youth Advisory Board meeting was canceled so the Youth Advisory Board would not
be reviewing the item until late January.
Councilmember Kneeland reported the Committee also discussed the dismount zone She stated the
Organizational Development Committee met and discussed issues regarding the Municipal Judge,
ie., who the Judge reports to and how budget information for the Municipal Court gets into the
budget process.
Councilmember Wanner stated the Growth Management Committee met and discussed the level of
transportation services, the initial implementation for City Plan, and development review procedures.
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December 3, 1996
Councilmember Janett reported the Friends of the Poudre presented Council with an appreciation
plaque for its efforts in opening Gateway Park. She reported that Library Director Linda Saferite
has taken a position in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Councilmember McCloskey reported on a meeting of the Legislative Review Committee, reporting
that Sam Mamet of the Colorado Municipal League made a presentation on ways the City could
work with the legislature and on how the League represents its members.
Mayor Azari spoke of the Rotary Read Aloud certificates presented before the meeting began, and
reported that Public Service Company would be installing a filling station for natural gas vehicles.
Resolution 96-147
Adopting the Update to the Parks and Recreation Policy
Plan as an Element of the City's Comprehensive Plan, Adopted.
The following is staffs memorandum on this item.
"Financial Impact
The Parks and Recreation Policy Plan includes a chapter addressing funding and implementation
strategies which was not apart of the 1988 Plan. Although the Plan recommends funding for all
projects, it does not identify specific funding sources. The estimated costs for all implementation
actions outlined in Chapter Five is $109.5 million. Although this may seem high, the Plan is
comprehensive and identifies all projects needed to maintain and increase the level of service for
the communityfor the next ten years. Major items that have been identified include three new
community parks, a new multi purpose recreation center with an indoor/outdoor pool, mcjor
renovations or replacement of the Northside Aztlan Community Center, the Youth Activity Center,
and a new community horticultural center. Of the 65 implementation actions recommended,
approximately 21 of the projects have funding from dedicated sources such as the Neighborhood
Parkland Fees, Community Parkland Fees or the Conservation Trust Fund. These projects total
approximately $31.9 million or 29% of the total estimated cost.
The Plan recommends the use ofgrants or matching funds from partnerships to offset the cost of
many of these projects. Revenues will eventually be generated from new recreation facilities, but
no dollar amount has been determined at this time. No debt financing is identified for any project.
Many of the projects have been identified as potential items to be funded through anew Capital
Improvement Program.
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December 3. 1996
Executive Summary
This Resolution approves and adopts the proposed update to the Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
(formerly the Parks and Recreation Master Plan) as an element of the City's Comprehensive Plan.
The Plan establishes new goals and policies for Parks and Recreation land acquisition, development
criteria, programming, management plans and fees, as well as new policies for trails and other open
lands. The Plan complements and supports the Natural Areas Policy Plan, the City's Transportation
Plan, Stormwater Management Plans andthe emerging concepts of CITYPLAN. An implementation
section, Chapter Five, has also been included which addresses funding and action itemsJor the City.
The Parks and Recreation Master Plan was adopted in 1988 as an element of the City's
Comprehensive Plan. Work on updating this Plan has occurred over the last two years and has
involved an extensive public process including reviews by a Citizen Advisory Committee and five
City Boards and Commissions. The Parks and Recreation Policy Plan is the result of a long- range
evaluation of the City's Parks and Recreation services and facilities and establishes a
comprehensive vision for the next ten years.
Three study sessions have been held with the Council on this item. At the October 8, 1996 Study
Session, Council had several questions and requests. Responses to these questions are contained
in Attachment A.
BACKGROUND:
Histol'y
In the fall of 1994, the Park Planning and Development Division began the task of
updating the 1988 Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Staff hired EDAW/HRV to
update the Plan and proceed with analysis and recommendations. Staff felt it was
important to evaluate the current policies and goals for the Parks and Recreation
Department and examine the trends and demands affecting the existing park system,
trails and natural areas. Staff met with City Council in March 1995 to review tlue
plan's status and preliminary recommendations. Council requested additional research
and analysis on several major issues. Subsequently, staff met with Council on April
23, 1996, and again on October 8, 1996 to respond to these issues and present the
final Plan recommendations.
2. The Plan
The update focuses on recreational facilities and programs and the City's parks, natural
areas, and trail systems. Community input was solicited at all stages of the project and
the final plan captures the community's vision for future parks and recreational services.
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December 3. 1996
Priorities have been identified and a direction has been established for implementing
the Plan. A new Community Parkland Fee has also been established to fund the
acquisition and development of new community parks after the current deficit of
community parkland need has been met.
The Plan includes five chapters: (Please see Attachment B)
Chapter One -Covers the introduction to the report and underlying issues to be
addressed by the Plan.
Chapter Two -Describes the Plan recommendations including the Goals and Policies,
Parkland Standards, Classification Standards and the Open Lands system
recommendations.
Chapter Three - Describes the current, existing resources including regional and local
facilities.
Chapter Four - Presents issues and needs identified through a socioeconomic and
demographic analysis, survey results, and a facility needs assessment.
Chapter Five - Outlines implementation actions, fimding strategies and resource
allocation.
The Appendix contains the general management guidelines for City -owned open space and natural
areas, a comparative level of service matrix for other Front Range communities, a report on
maintenance funding options and the recreation fee policy.
Summary Recommendations
The Plan recommendations were developed from a compilation offour different concepts. "These
concepts explored a range of uses within the park system involving different mires of active
(programmed) recreation and more passive (unprogrammed) activities. The f nal Plan recommends
a `balanced" approached. Balance does not necessarily mean equal and cannot be applied
literally in all cases. This new plan will dedicate more area to non programmed uses within
neighborhood and community parks. The amount of area devoted to active/programmed sports in
both community and neighborhood parks will be less than 40%. Greater emphasis on
partnerships to meet the extraordinary demands for soccer, baseball and ice skating will be
encouraged. The overall parkland standard would increase to seven acres with 4.5 acres/1,000
population devoted to community parks and 2.5 acres/1, 000 population for neighborhood parks.
The increase of the parkland standard combined with better management practices in the parks
will provide more non -programmed play areas.
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December 3, 1996
More emphasis will be placed on making neighborhood parks useable and accessible for the
neighborhoods they serve. The provision for several smaller parks, one to two acres in size, will
be emphasized within each square mile for new areas of the community. This is in conformance
with the recommendations from CITY PLAN. One larger 8-10 acre neighborhood park will be
developed to accommodate recreational sport activities for each square mile or service area.
Neighborhood parks will be co -located with regional stormwater drainage -ways or detention
basins and schools when feasible.
Additional trail/path connections will be developed between neighborhoods, parks and the main
recreational trail system. The development of the regional trail to Loveland, Timnath, and
Windsor, etc. shall remain a priority for the City. Natural areas will continue to be purchased
according to the Natural Areas Policy Plan. In addition more "vacant" lot natural areas for
creative outdoor play will be developed in the core area of the City.
Implementation and funding is critical to the Policy Plan and is outlined in detail in Chapter Five.
A new Community Parkland Fee will help develop community parks after one of the existing
community parks has been developed. The Plan recommends that Fossil Creek Park be the first
to be developed (within the next 2-5 years). Development of Southwest Community Park and the
purchase of land for anew northeast community park should occur in 5-10 years. Funding for
Fossil Creek Community Park is recommended to be financed through the next Capital
Improvement Program. The new Community Park Fee will fund the Southwest and Northeast
community parks.
The Policy Plan only makes recommendations for the next 10 years, but has made some assumptions
about anticipated needs through the year 2015 based on population estimates and related demands
outlined in CITYPLAN Trails will continue to be developed through the Conservation Trust Fund
and grant opportunities. Neighborhood Parkland Fees have been adjusted to conform with the
community parkland fee structure eve fee levels based on housing square feet). No other maor
changes are recommended at this time in funding strategies.
3. Planning Process
The Plan is the result of a two-year process that included both a technical and policy analysis and
an extensive public involvement program. Public outreach was solicited throughout the process and
by various methods. Customer surveys were conducted in 1990 and 1994 to determine user
preferences. A needs assessment questionnaire was conducted in the fall of 1994 for all major users
of the City's park and recreation system. A nationally respected consultant was hired to complete
the project and provided extensive analysis and research into the current trends and policies in
parks and recreation both nationally and regionally. A 20-member Citizen Advisory Committee met
and reviewed draft policies and recommendations for over a year and provided insight and expertise
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December 3, 1996
on many issues. Finally, two open houses were held in 1995 to solicit community comments and
concerns.
City Council has met with staff in three study sessions and numerous City Boards and Commissions
have reviewed the project over the last two years. The Natural Resource Advisory Board and the
Parks and Recreation Board have been involved with the Plan since its inception and have provided
staff and the consultant with many recommendations and policies. The Plan has been coordinated
with the emerging trends and ideas from CITY PLAN and the new master Street Plan, Pedestrian
Plan and the overall policies regarding stormwater management. Staff has also solicited input from
other communities across the Front Range and Poudre School District and the County Park
Planning Division.
A compilation of all Boards and Commission comments for the last two years are included in
Attachment C The following Boards and Commissions have reviewed the Plan to date.
A presentation was made to the Landmarks Preservation Commission on July 23, 1996 No
formal action was taken but the commission was supportive of the Plan. Members
highlighted many opportunities for historical interpretation areas that could be included
with many of the future parks sites identified in the Plan. A request was made to seek
landmark status for City Park and thefuture Strauss Cabin site within the next fern years.
The Transportation Advisory Board reviewed the Plan on July 24, 1996 cmd f urther
discussed the Plan on August 7. The Board did not make a formal recommendation but
offered several comments.
The Storm Drainage Board reviewed the Plan on August 8, 1996 and unanimously approved
the Plan. The Board discussed the coordination and support of combined parks and
storm waterfacilities and supported the overall goals andpolicies unanimously.
The Planning and Zoning Board reviewed the Policy Plan on September 9, 1996 and voted
unanimously to approve the Plan with the following recommendation.• The Board recommended that
staff analyze the creation of new impact fees for recreation centers, swimming pools, ice rinks, bike
trails and golf courses as a method offunding these items in the future. Staff will follow upon this
recommendation.
The Natural Resources Advisory Board (NRAB) reviewed the Plan on August 14, 1996 and
September 3, 1996 The Board made several suggestions regarding the Goals and Policies
section. Staff has revised the Plan according to both the NRAB and the Parks and
Recreation Board comments. The NRAB reviewed the final DRAFT Plan on September 26,
and unanimously voted to approve and adopt the Plan with a few minor language changes
which will be included in the final copy.
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December 3, 1996
The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board has reviewed the Plan often over the past two
years, most recently on September 25, 1996 The Board unanimously approved the final
draft that was presented to Council at the October 8, 1996 Study Session. "
City Attorney Steve Roy stated Resolution 96-147 referenced an attached document and stated that
document was not attached but is on file in the office of the City Clerk. He read amendments to the
Resolution into the record.
Director of Cultural, Library and Recreational Services Mike Powers gave the staff report on this
item.
Park Planner Janet Meisel reported on changes made to the Plan, noting the last time the Plan was
updated was 1988. She commented on the need for increased acerage of land to be dedicated to
community parks based on population standards and commented the Plan continues to endorse the
development and acquisition of trails and natural areas. She spoke of methods considered to balance
the use of the City's parks, plans to develop additional parks and spoke of the need to provide better
access to parks through neighborhoods. She reported on park program uses, management plans, use
of facilities, types of facilities as well as how parks are maintained. She stated the Plan addresses
maximizing the use of public facilities, stating currently the City is discussing the possibility ofjoint
use facilities with CSU and the School District. She reported the Plan sets a level of service standard
in terms of establishing facilities. She clarified the current standard is a 6 acre minimum per 1,000
people and if the active programing continues to be provided, those standards would be achievable.
Meisel stated the Plan calls for strengthing partnerships and working with private organizations to
help fulfill their needs, stating that partnerships are key ingredient to making the policy a success.
Councilmember Smith stated it appears that the City is above average in providing major facilities
in comparison to other front range communities. He asked if the Plan would take the City to the top
of the list.
Powers clarified Fort Collins currently provides more facilities than other cities on the front range.
He spoke of the demand and remarked that the citizens do not think the City is providing enough.
He stated that building the two parks would meet the balance and demand issue.
Jean Helburg spoke of waiting lists to use the facilities and how the number of people on the waiting
lists have recently grown.
Councilmember Janett spoke of priority registration issues that arise for City residents using the
Poudre School District's boundaries.
174
December 3, 1996
Powers spoke of the need for priority registrations and stated that was one of the cooperative goals
identified with the School District. He spoke of costs involved in determining users not within
specific boundaries.
Councilmember Kneeland made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Wanner, to adopt
Resolution 96-147.
Meisel stated the intent of increased acreage was to provide additional non -programmed or passive
areas, and stated maintenance increases would be minor.
City Manager John Fischbach responded to Council questions stating staff is preparing a memo
regarding funding options for park expansions.
Meisel stated an inter -departmental team is currently working on dog run areas with the Humane
Society to select an appropriate site.
Powers stated the dog run issue was a difficult issue to address, noting the support is for dog runs
in natural areas. He spoke of the studies that would have to occur before any decisions are made.
Meisel spoke of funding available for operational costs.
Councilmember McCluskey spoke of the need to provide a balance of needs for all City goals.
The vote on Councilmember Kneeland's motion was as follows: Yeas: Councilmembers Azari,
Kneeland, Janett, McCloskey, Smith and Wanner. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Councilmember Janett made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Kneeland, to adjourn into
Executive Session for the purpose of continuing the evaluations of the City Attorney, City Manager
and Municipal Judge. Yeas: Councilmembers Azari, Kneeland, Janett, McCloskey and Wanner.
Nays: Councilmember Smith.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
After the Executive Session was concluded the meeting reconvened at 9:45 p.m.
Ordinance No. 152, 1996
Amending Section 2-581 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins
and Setting the Compensation of the City Attorney. Adopted on First Reading_
175
December 3, 1996
The following is staff s memorandum on this item.
"Executive Summary
City Council met in Executive Session to conduct the performance appraisal of City Attorney Steve
Roy. This ordinance establishes the 1997 salary of the City Attorney.
BACKGROUND:
City Council is committed to compensating employees in a manner which is fair, competitive and
understandable. The goal as an employer is to attract and retain quality employees and to
recognize and reward quality performance.
In order to accomplish this goal the City Council and the City Attorney meet once a year to discuss
last year's performance and set goals for the coming year.
In 1996, the Total Compensation paid to the Ciry Attorney included the following:
SALARYAND BENEFITS
ANNUAL
Base salary:
S87, 780
Medical Insurance
4,752
Life Insurance:
211
Long Term Disability:
290
Dental Reimbursement:
138
Pension: ICMA 401(a) &
ICMA 457
11,411
FICA
5,160
Non -Monetary Benefits
Vacation: (25 days per year)
Holidays: (11 days per year)
Total Monetary Compensation =
S109,742"
Councilmember McCluskey made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Kneeland, to adopt
Ordinance No. 152, 1996 on First Reading inserting the amounts of $92,169 and $115,136. Yeas:
Councilmembers Azari, Kneeland, Janett, McCloskey, Smith and Wanner. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
176
December 3, 1996
Mayor Azari spoke of the importance of the City Attorney's working relationship with the City
Manager and stated Mr. Roy has provided excellent leadership and support in all areas.
Ordinance No. 153, 1996
Amending Section 2-596 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins
and Setting the Compensation of the City Manager, Adopted on First Reading.
The following is staffs memorandum on this item.
"Executive Summary
City Council met in Executive Session to conduct the performance appraisal of City Manager John
Fischbach. This ordinance establishes the salary and compensation provided the City Manager.
BACKGROUND:
City Council is committed to compensating employees in a manner which is fair, competitive and
understandable. The goal as an employer is to attract and retain quality employees and to
recognize and reward quality performance.
In order to accomplish this goal the City Council and the City Manager meet once a year to discuss
last year's performance and set goals for the coming year.
In 1996, the Total Compensation paid to the City Manager included the following:
SALARYAND BENEFITS ANNUAL
Base salary:
S102,168
Medical Insurance:
4,752
Life Insurance:
245
Long Term Disability:
337
Dental Reimbursement:
138
Pension: ICMA 401(a) &
ICMA 457
13,282
FICA
5,369
Non -Monetary Benefits
Vacation: (25 days per year)
Holidays: (11 days per year)
Toted Monetary Compensation = S126,291"
177
December 3, 1996
Councilmember Wanner made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Kneeland, to adopt Ordinance
No. 153, 1996 on First Reading inserting the amounts of $108,298 and $133,678. Yeas:
Councilmembers Azari, Kneeland, Janett, McCluskey, Smith and Wanner. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Councilmember Wanner spoke of the many challenges of the City Manager and spoke of Mr.
Fischbach's achievements.
Councilmember Janett spoke of the large volume of work that Council and staff faces and
commended Mr. Fischbach for his efforts.
Items Relating to the Reappointment and
Compensation of the Municipal Judge, Adopted.
The following is staffs memorandum on this item.
"Executive Summary
A. Resolution 96-148 of the Council ofthe City of Fort Collins Reappointing Kathleen M. Lane
as Municipal Judge.
Article VII, Section 1, of the Charter provides that the Municipal Judge is to be appointed
for a term of two years. ,Judge Lane ivas first appointed to serve as the City's Municipal
Judge for a term commencing July 1, 1989. She was reappointed in 1991, November 1992
(when she was reappointed, the term was adjusted to begin January 1, 1993 and end
December 31, 1994), and again in January 1995. The purpose of the proposed Resolution
is to reappoint Judge Lane to a new term commencing January 1, 1997.
B. First Reading of Ordinance No. 154, 1996, Amending Section 2-606 of the Code of the City
of Fort Collins and Setting the Compensation of the Municipal Judge.
City Council met in Executive Session to conduct the performance appraisal of Municipal
Judge Kathleen M. Lane. This ordinance establishes the 1997 salary of the Municipal
Judge.
BACKGROUND:
City Council is committed to compensating employees in a manner ivhich is fair, competitive and
understandable. The goal as an employer is to attract and retain quality employees and to
recognize and reward quality performance.
178
December 3, 1996
In order to accomplish this goal the City Council and the Municipal Judge meet once a year to
discuss last year's performance and set goals far the coming year.
In 1996, the Total Compensation paid to the Municipal Judge included the following:
SALARYAND BENEFITS ANNUAL
Base salary:
563,624
Medical Insurance
4,752
Life Insurance:
153
Long Term Disability:
210
Dental Reimbursement:
138
Pension: ICMA 401(a) &
ICMA 457
8,271
FICA
4,810
Non -Monetary Benefits
Vacation: (25 days per year)
holidays: (11 days per year)
Total Monetary Compensation =
S81,958"
Councilmember Smith made a motion, seconded by Councilmember McCluskey, to adopt
Resolution 96-148. Yeas: Councilmembers Azari, Kneeland, Janett, McCluskey, Smith and Wanner.
Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Councilmember Smith made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Kneeland, to adopt Ordinance
No. 154, 1996 on First Reading inserting the amounts of $67,442 and $86.710.
Councilmember Smith complimented Judge Lane for all her efforts, and reminded everyone that
Judge Lane has been serving both as Municipal Judge and Municipal Court Administrator. He
complimented Council's direct employees on their outstanding performances and commitment to
the City.
Councilmember Kneeland supported the motion and spoke of the increased workload of the
Municipal Judge, ie., space issues, camera radar as well as the increase in population.
The vote on Councilmember Smith's motion was as follows: Yeas: Councilmembers Azari,
Kneeland, Janett, McCluskey, Smith and Wanner. Nays: None.
179
December 3, 1996
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Councilmember Janett reported on the process Council uses to determine these type of increases,
stating they receive input from community members, staff, review compensation levels of other City
staff, and review comparable salaries in other cities.
Mayor Azari thanked Human Resources Director Jaime Mares for his efforts in providing and
compiling salary survey information.
The meeting adjourned at 10:05 p.m.
ATTEST:
Adjournment
180