HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES-12/19/2017-RegularDecember 19, 2017 1 ,
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS, COLORADO
Council -Manager Form of Government
Regular Meeting — 6:00 PM
• ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Martinez, Stephens, Overbeck, Troxell, Cunniff, Horak
ABSENT: Summers
Staff Present: Atteberry, Daggett, Coldiron
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• AGENDA REVIEW: CITY MANAGER
City Manager Atteberry recommended Item No. 19, Resolution 2017-113 Approving a Collective
Bargaining Agreement with Northern Colorado Lodge#3 of the Fraternal Order of Police, be
pulled given the significant number of changes that have occurred.
Councilmember Martinez withdrew Item No. 19, Resolution 2017-113 Approving a Collective
Bargaining Agreement with Northern Colorado Lodge #3 of the Fraternal Order of Police, from
the Consent Agenda.
• CITIZEN PARTICIPATION
Elizabeth Hudetz discussed the survey she recently completed regarding plugged and abandoned
wells. She cited a study which showed negative health impacts for individuals living within a 10
mile radius of fracking wells.
Brett Bovee, Water Board Chair, stated the Board is dedicating a set of work sessions to topics
that represent water issues facing the City. Topics include NISP and the future of irrigations canals
and ditches within the GMA.
Robert Bradley discussed the lack of bicycle regulation and patrol and issues with buses.
Collin Garfield, Fort Collins Citizens Broadband Committee, discussed the repealing of net
neutrality.
Thomas Edwards discussed the new electric rates and stated his home is all electric.
William Montgomery played a recording related to the 2015 Occupy Jefferson movement and
stated police officers are systematically lying.
• CITIZEN PARTICIPATION FOLLOW-UP
Mayor Troxell summarized the citizen comments.
Councilmember Overbeck requested staff feedback regarding Ms. Hudetz' comments and asked
if there will be collaboration with the Natural Resources Advisory Board relating to the Water
Board memo.
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December 19, 2017
Councilmember Martinez requested staff follow-up regarding Mr. Bradley's comments and
requested staff contact Mr. Edwards regarding his concerns.
• CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor Pro Tern Horak made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Overbeck, to adopt and
approve all items not withdrawn from the Consent Agenda.
RESULT:
ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER:
Gerry Horak, District 6
SECONDER:
Bob Overbeck, District 1
AYES:
Martinez, Summers, Overbeck, Troxell, Cunniff, Horak .
ABSENT:
Stephens
FPJ
Consideration and Approval of the Minutes of the November 21, 2017 Regular Council Meeting
and the November 28, 2017 Adjourned Council Meeting. (Adopted)
The purpose of this item is to approve the minutes from the November 21, 2017 Regular Council
meeting and the November 28, 2017 Adjourned Council meeting.
(Adopted)
This Ordinance, unanimously adopted on First Reading on December 5, 2017, appropriates $42,614
of prior year reserves for a rebate to Woodward, Inc. for use tax under an agreement that City Council
approved on April 2, 2013 (Ordinance No. 055, 2013). The agreement provides business investment
assistance for the relocation of Woodward's headquarters, as well as an expansion of its
manufacturing and office facilities to a new location at the corner of Lincoln Avenue and Lemay
Avenue. The project will retain or create between 1,400 and 1,700 primary jobs in the City.
The Ordinance has been revised between First and Second Reading to add a new recital. The new
recital has been added to further clarify the Council's findings for the public purposes of this
appropriation.
3. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 167, 2017, Amending Section 2-568(c)(2) of the Code of the
City of Fort Collins Pertaining to Rules of Conduct Applicable to Councilmember Conduct.
(Adopted)
4.
This Ordinance, unanimously adopted on First Reading on December 5, 2017, amends Section 2-
568(c)(2) of the City Code to add clarifying language that limits Councilmember interaction with City
officers and employees regarding matters for which a conflict of interest has been declared.
Stormwater Utility Fees. (Adopted)
This Ordinance, unanimously adopted on First Reading on December 5, 2017, corrects two formulas
relating to development charges and monthly fees for the Light and Power and Stormwater utilities.
The first correction fixes an omission in the calculation of kilo -watt demand .for electric capacity
charges. The second correction fixes a typo in a formula used to calculate single family residential
monthly stormwater fees. These changes make City Code consistent with the original intent of the
formulas and reflect how the fees have been calculated and billed since their adoption.
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December 19, 2017
5.
of the
with
(Adopted)
This Ordinance, unanimously adopted on First Reading on December 5, 2017, places a Notice of
Grant Agreement on the 3,873 acres of land within Soapstone Prairie Natural Area subject to a Non -
Development Lease with the Colorado State Board of Land Commissioners. The grant will expand
upon Bird Conservancy of the Rocky' s (BCR) research and monitoring work on Soapstone Prairie and
Meadow Springs Ranch to implement conservation strategies and management for 19 high priority
grassland birds that breed within the Laramie Foothills Mountains to Plains Project and 28 high priority
species at wintering sites in the Chihuahua Desert of Mexico.
6. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 170, 2017, Authorizing the Use of the Evans Tract as Match
for a Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act Grant Administered by the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service. (Adopted)
This Ordinance, unanimously adopted on First Reading on December 5, 2017, places a Notice of
Grant Agreement on the 240-acre Evans Tract purchased in 2015 as part of Soapstone Prairie Natural
Area. The grant will expand upon Bird Conservancy of the Rocky's (BCR) research and monitoring
work on Soapstone Prairie and Meadow Springs Ranch to implement conservation strategies and
management for 19 high priority grassland birds that breed within the Laramie Foothills Mountains to
Plains Project and 28 high priority species at wintering sites in the Chihuahua Desert of Mexico.
Second Reading of Ordinance No. 171, 2017, Amending Chapter 1 and Other Related
Provisions of the Code of the City of Fort Collins to Create a Petty Offense Classification and
Penalties for Petty Offense Violations. (Adopted)
This Ordinance, unanimously adopted on First Reading on December 5, 2017, creates a petty offense
category within the City Code and classifies a violation of the City's smoking ordinance as a petty
offense. 'Some errors were discovered in the First Reading Agenda Item Summary and an amended
version has been provided as part of the agenda materials.
8. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 172, 2017, Amending Article III of Chapter 12 of the Code of
the City of Fort Collins Regarding Smoking in Public Areas. (Adopted)
This Ordinance, unanimously adopted on First Reading on December 5, 2017; amends the downtown
smoking ordinance to designate a violation of the ordinance as a petty offense and to clarify that the
Downtown Smoke -Free Zone does not apply to any person smoking in a privately -owned residence;
entirely within an enclosed privately -owned motor vehicle, or in a retail tobacco business.
9. Items Relating to the Fort Collins Traffic Code. (Adopted)
A. First Reading of Ordinance No. 173, 2017, Amending Various Sections of the Fort Collins Traffic
Code.
B. First Reading of Ordinance No. 174, 2017, Amending Various Sections of Part 21 of the Fort
Collins Traffic Code Regulating Bicycles.
The purpose of this item is to ensure that the Fort Collins Traffic Code (the Traffic Code) is consistent
with Colorado traffic laws.
10. First Reading of Ordinance No. 175, 2017, Deleting Chapter 12, Article VIII from the Code of the
City of Fort Collins Regarding Hydraulic Fracturing. (Adopted)
The purpose of this item is to remove references to a prohibition on oil and gas related activities from
Chapter 12, Article VIII of the City Code. This is an administrative clean-up item reflecting the 2016
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December 19, 2017
it.
Colorado Supreme Court decision that struck down the City's hydraulic fracturing moratorium because
state law preempted it.
Drive Extension. (Adopted)
The purpose of this item is to declare approximately 1.4 acres of Tract A owned by the City Utilities'
Wastewater Utility Enterprise as right-of-way for the construction of Sharp Point Drive between Nancy
Gray Avenue and Midpoint Drive. Tract A is a 1.9-acre parcel which was originally platted as a public
access and loading easement in the 1970s as part of the Prospect Industrial Park. The Sharp Point
Drive connection was shown on the City's Master Street Plan in 1998. The platted easement merged
into fee property upon acquisition by the Wastewater Utility Enterprise in 2002. ,
12. First Reading of Ordinance No. 177. 2017
REZ1170001.(Adopted)
This item is a quasi-judicial matter and if it is considered on the discussion agenda it will be considered
in accordance with the procedures described in Section 1(d) of the Council's Rules of Meeting
Procedures adopted in Resolution 2017-017.
The purpose of this item is to amend the City's Zoning Map to adjust the location, size and boundary
between two zone districts within a 19.55 parcel located at the southeast corner of South Shields
Street and Hobbit Street. The result of the shift is that the Neighborhood Commercial (N-C) zone is
shifted south and reduced by 2.88 acres while the Medium Density Mixed -Use Neighborhood (M-M-
N) zone is shifted north and gains a corresponding amount of land area. As proposed, the N-C zone
would be reduced to 6.42 acres and the M-M-N zone would be enlarged to 13.13 acres.
This rezoning of less than 640 acres is subject to the criteria included in Section 2.9.4 of the Land Use
Code and subject to certain conditions in Section 2.9.4(H). Such a zoning may be approved, approved
with conditions, or denied by Council after receiving a recommendation from the Planning and Zoning
Board, which voted (6-0) to recommend the rezoning with six conditions. The six conditions have been
agreed upon by the applicant and neighbors from the surrounding residential neighborhood (including
the Sheeley and Wallenberg neighborhoods), as well as consultation with staff.
13. Resolution 2017-107 Finding Substantial Compliance and Initiating Annexation Proceedings
for the Water Treatment Facility Annexation No. 1. (Adopted)
The purpose of this item is to initiate annexation proceedings for the Water Treatment Facility
Annexation No. 1. This is a voluntary annexation. The City of Fort Collins is the applicant and has
submitted a written petition requesting four sequential annexations. Water Treatment Facility
Annexation No. 1 is the first Resolution of this series of four sequential annexations, and totals 0.101
acres of Laporte Avenue which establishes 1/6 perimeter boundary contiguity with the existing
municipal boundaries to the east.
The Water Treatment Facility Annexations form a flagpole -shaped annexation starting slightly east of
the intersection of Sunset Street and Laporte Avenue and ending at 4316 Laporte Avenue. A City
water treatment facility is located at 4316 LaPorte Avenue. The requested zoning for this series of
annexations is Urban Estate (UE) and Residential Foothills (RF) which is in compliance with the City
of Fort Collins Structure Plan and the Northwest Subarea Plan. Notice to parcels abutting platted
streets was provided pursuant to §31-12-105, C.R.S.
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December 19, 2017
14. Resolution 2017-108 Finding Substantial Compliance and Initiating Annexation Proceedings
for the Water Treatment Facility Annexation No. 2. (Adopted)
The purpose of this item is to initiate annexation proceedings for the Water Treatment Facility
Annexation No. 2. This is a voluntary annexation. The City of Fort Collins is the applicant and has
submitted a written petition requesting four sequential annexations. Water Treatment Facility
Annexation No. 2 is the second Resolution of this series of four sequential annexations, and totals
0.380 acres of Laporte Avenue which establishes 1/6 perimeter boundary contiguity with the Water
Treatment Facility Annexation No. 1.
The Water Treatment Facility Annexations form a flagpole -shaped annexation starting slightly east of
the intersection of Sunset Street and Laporte Avenue and ending at 4316 Laporte Avenue. A City
water treatment facility is located at 4316 Laporte Avenue. The requested zoning for this series of
annexations is Urban Estate (UE) and Residential Foothills (RF) which is in compliance with the City
of Fort Collins Structure Plan and the Northwest Subarea Plan. Notice to parcels abutting platted
streets was provided pursuant to §31-12-105, C.R.S.
15. Resolution 2017-109 Finding Substantial Compliance and Initiating Annexation Proceedings
for the Water Treatment Facility Annexation No. 3. (Adopted)
The purpose of this item is to initiate annexation proceedings for the Water Treatment Facility
Annexation No. 3. This is a voluntary annexation. The City of Fort Collins is the applicant and has
submitted a written petition requesting four sequential annexations. Water Treatment Facility
Annexation No. 3 is the third Resolution of this series of four sequential annexations, and totals 1.182
acres of Laporte Avenue which establishes 1/6 perimeter boundary contiguity with the Water
Treatment Facility Annexation No. 2.
The Water Treatment Facility Annexations forming a flagpole -shaped annexation starting slightly east
of the intersection of Sunset Street and Laporte Avenue and ends at 4316 Laporte Avenue. A City
water treatment facility is located at 4316 Laporte Avenue. The requested zoning for this series of
annexations is Urban Estate (UE) and Residential Foothills (RF) which is in compliance with the City
of Fort Collins Structure Plan and the Northwest Subarea Plan. Notice to parcels abutting platted
streets was provided pursuant to §31-12-105, C.R.S. I
16. Resolution 2017-110 Finding Substantial Compliance and Initiating Annexation Proceedings
for the Water Treatment Facility Annexation No. 4. (Adopted)
The purpose of this item is to initiate annexation proceedings for the Water Treatment Facility
Annexation No. 4. This is a voluntary annexation. The City of Fort Collins is the applicant and has
submitted a written petition requesting four sequential annexations. Water Treatment Facility
Annexation No. 4 is the fourth and final Resolution of this series of sequential annexations, and totals
102.825 acres which establishes 1/6 perimeter boundary contiguity with the Water Treatment Facility
Annexation No. 3. Unlike Water Treatment Facility Annexations No. 1, 2 and 3, the No.4 annexation
lies in large part outside the boundary of the Growth Management Area.
The Water Treatment Facility Annexations forming a flagpole -shaped annexation starting at the
intersection of Sunset Street and Laporte Avenue and ends at 4316 Laporte Avenue. A City water
treatment facility is located at 4316 Laporte Avenue. The requested zoning for this series of
annexations is Urban Estate (UE) and Residential Foothills (RF) which is in compliance with the Fort
Collins City Plan Structure Plan Map and the Northwest Subarea Plan designations. Notice to parcels
abutting platted streets was provided pursuant to §31-12-105, C.R.S.
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December 19, 2017
17.
(Adopted)
The purpose of this item is to approve an intergovernmental agreement between the City and Colorado
Department of Transportation (CDOT) for the City to maintain traffic control devices (signals, signs,
and markings) on state highways within the City's Growth Management Area. Historically, these IGAs
have been for 5-year terms; however, the current IGA expired in June 2017 and City has still been
performing the maintenance services. CDOT is working on an updated long-term IGA, but it will not
be ready until next year. This IGA, set to expire in June 2018, covers the interim period and allows
City to be reimbursed for maintaining traffic control devices during CDOT's 2018 fiscal year in the
amount of $235,920. This IGA reflects updated costs from the previous agreement.
18. Resolution 2017-112 Adopting the 2017 Update to the Three -Mile Plan for the City of Fort
Collins. (Adopted)
I
The purpose of this item is to adopt the 2017 update to the Three -Mile Plan for the City of Fort Collins. '
This Plan is a policy document for the coordination and provision of services for potential annexations.
The Plan describes the general location, character, utilities, and infrastructure for areas within three
miles of the municipal boundary. Annual updates of the Three -Mile Plan are required by state statutes.
19. Resolution 2017-114 Naming the Lounge at the Fort Collins Senior Center after Former Mayor
and Councilmember Ann Azari. (Adopted)
The purpose of this item is to name the lounge at the Senior Center the "Ann Azari Lounge" in honor
of former mayor Ann Azari. Ann was a devoted public servant in the Fort Collins community who served
ten years on City Council and as Mayor.
20. Resolution 2017-115 Making Appointments to Various Boards, Commissions, and Authorities
of the City of Fort Collins. (Adopted)
The purpose of this item is to appoint individuals to fill vacancies that currently exist on various boards,
commissions, and authorities due to resignations of board members and vacancies to be created upon
the expiration of terms of current members. Applications were solicited during September, October,
and November. Council teams interviewed applicants during November and December. This
Resolution appoints individuals to fill current vacancies and expiring terms.
This Resolution does not fill all vacancies. Interviews are continuing, and any remaining vacancies
will be advertised as needed.
• END CONSENT
• CONSENT CALENDAR FOLLOW-UP
This is an opportunity for Councilmembers to comment on items adopted or approved on the Consent
Calendar.
• COUNCILMEMBER REPORTS
Councilmember Overbeck reported on attending a memorandum of understanding workshop
dealing with oil and gas and on attending the Nutcracker ballet.
Councilmember Stephens reported on the lighting of the menorah in Old Town.
Mayor Troxell discussed the proclamation honoring former Mayor Ann Azari.
City of Fort Collins Page 109
December 19, 2017
• CONSIDERATION OF COUNCIL -PULLED CONSENT ITEMS
21. Resolution 2017-113 Approving a Collective Bargaining Agreement with Northern Colorado
Lodge #3 of the Fraternal Order of Police. (Postponed Indefinitely)
The purpose of this item is to approve a collective bargaining agreement between the City and the
Northern Colorado Lodge #3, Colorado Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) and authorize execution of
such agreement. The City and the FOP, using an Interest Based Bargaining (IBB) approach, engaged
in negotiations regarding the terms and conditions of possible bargaining agreement for 2018 and
2019. In lieu of reaching tentative agreement, the FOP agreed to present the City's final and best offer
to their membership for vote on December ,14, 2017. If the agreement is not ratified by their
membership, this item will be withdrawn from City Council consideration.
City Manager Atteberry stated the City continues to be committed to the following priorities:
fostering and preserving public trust and ensuring community safety, consistency and equity of
policies and benefits as compared to other City employees while recognizing the unique
characteristics of police work, maintaining market competitiveness with other front range policing
agencies, preserving the authority of the City Council to make final decisions on contract terms,
and providing good stewardship of community resources.
Kelly DiMartino, Assistant City Manager, provided an overview of the negotiation process to this
point and stated the City approaches bargaining from an interest -based process. In November, the
Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) claimed the negotiations were at an impasse and opted not to ratify
the agreement put forth by the City at that time. The three main topics discussed were: retirement,
retiree health, and compensation.
DiMartino outlined the 12 jurisdictions mutually agreed upon to represent benchmark
comparisons. Using that data, the City perspective is that it is at market level for compensation
and retirement benefits and is below market for retiree health; therefore, the City felt that was the
main area of focus. She noted some of the benchmark cities with higher retiree health benefits
also have lower compensation.
DiMartino outlined the proposal requested by the FOP for a defined health benefit and stated the
long-term liability makes that proposal one that the City cannot consider. Ten of the 12 benchmark
cities do offer some type of retiree health coverage; Fort Collins discontinued this practice in 2010
given the long-term liability for the City. The City's alternate proposal is to make an increased
contribution to a retirement health savings account and add a one-time stipend, which would
decrease as time goes on given the retirement HSA contributions would increase.
DiMartino discussed the differences in retirement contributions between bargaining unit members
and other City employees, noting other City employees pay into Social Security, unlike bargaining
unit members. In terms of compensation, bargaining unit members receive an annual increase
based on the benchmark cities. A request for conflict resolution came forth from the FOP in
November. In 2005, a court order stated all powers of the City and the determination of policy
matters are vested in the City Council, per City Charter.
DiMartino stated the two entities have a joint interest in ensuring this agency continues to be
attractive for hiring, retaining, and developing a high -performing workforce. She presented data
related to application and retention numbers. The City sent a one-year proposed contract with the
provision that issues will continue to be explored. That offer was declined, and the FOP returned
City of Fort Collins Page 110
December 19, 2017
11
stating two of the following three things needed to happen before a proposal would be taken back:
either a conflict resolution plan, allowing retirees to stay on City insurance, or increasing
contributions to 401/457 plans to 13% over 11.5%. The City stated it could not make movement
on any of those issues without input from Council.,Should an agreement not be reached, a contract
will not be in place as of January 1; however, employees and bargaining members cannot withhold
work without a contract. Staff is recommending the City voluntarily extend the terms for current
retirement and health benefits and provide the 2018 compensation increases under the existing
formula if an agreement is not reached.
Chris Renn, FOP Vice President, stated this
benchmark statistics. He stated Fort Collins is
benefit is taken out of the equation.
is an unfortunate situation and discussed the
below other benchmark cities when a defined
Mike Crossland discussed the lack of Social Security benefits for bargaining unit members and
stated that income is guaranteed for other City employees. He stated a pension plan is a reasonable
request and the City will not discuss the option.
Alan Heaton discussed the challenges and dangers of police work and stated officers are highly
trained, well-equipped, professional, and are tasked with the difficult job of protecting citizens.
Ken Robinson stated he has been a member of the FOP for 20 years and compensation packages
for Fort Collins have decreased compared to the benchmark cities throughout that time. He
discussed retirement costs and stated income and benefits have not kept up with increased costs of
living.
Gil Crohn stated he is a recently retired officer and discussed the challenges and dangers of police
work.
Carly Garner thanked staff for meeting with FOP members and stated the decreasing ability to
attract quality police applicants weakens the ability of the department to serve the community. She
stated the lack of movement in negotiations has been frustrating and she does not agree the
information has been appropriately interpreted. She also expressed frustration with the willingness
of only one Councilmember to meet with FOP members.
Rob Knabb discussed the challenges and dangers of police work and stated he is disappointed with
the City's leadership. He questioned why only two Councilmember responded to an email from
the FOP.
Austin Vigil discussed the challenges and dangers of police work and stated the life expectancy of
male police officers is 10 years lower than males in other occupations. He stated officers are
willing to die to protect citizens and they are asking to be treated fairly.
Thomas Cohen discussed the importance of retiree health benefits and noted 10 of the 12
benchmark cities provide those benefits. He stated the stipend does not make health insurance
affordable and officers need the ability to purchase coverage from the City after retirement.
Dawn Johnson stated her husband, a police officer, died when he was 63 and discussed the
challenges and dangers of police work. She stated officers should be able to retire when they are
physically ready rather than having to keep working to pay for insurance.
City of Fort Collins Page 11 i
December 19, 2017
Mike Langley stated police service in Fort Collins is well above average, nationally and on the
front range. He stated fair compensation is needed if Fort Collins wants to attract world class
officers and requested the inclusion of retiree health care.
Heather West stated she is a former police officer and discussed her husband's decision to keep
working for the City in order to keep benefits. She stated compensation and benefits for officers
should be above average and officers should be able to retire when they need to.
Melissa Vigil discussed the possibility of an older officer having to respond to certain situations
and stated the City should uphold its promise to be a good steward of its resources, officers
included. r
Rob Pride, Colorado Lodge Fraternal Order of Police President and Loveland officer, stated
Loveland passed a compensation and retirement package much greater than has been shared with
Council. Tenured officers are seeking out positions in Loveland because of their retirement
package.
Spence Alford stated he is over 55 and is still employed as an officer. He discussed the challenges
and dangers of police work and questioned how these issues can be resolved when agreement
cannot be reached. He suggested conflict resolution should be an option.
Mayor Troxell thanked the speakers for their personal stories and for their commitment to and
sacrifice for the community.
Councilmember Cunniff thanked the speakers for their service and sacrifice and stated Council
must arrive at a compensation package which is fair for both police and citizens. He expressed
concern about exposing the City to the liability of a defined benefit package, particularly given
those pension plans are going bankrupt across the nation. He stated Council's direction to staff
was not to reach an impasse and stated talks can still occur and an agreement can still be reached.
Councilmember Stephens thanked the speakers and stated Council does care about the officers and
their service. She agreed with Councilmember Cunniff regarding the liability of a defined benefit
package. She stated she hopes discussions can keep going to resolve the impasse. She stated she
did not respond to the FOP email as she was uncomfortable doing so while negotiations were still
ongoing. She apologized for not stating that as a response.
Councilmember Martinez asked if CSU, Timnath and other cities offer pension plans. DiMartino
replied she was unsure as none of those are benchmark cities; however, she would research the
issue.
Councilmember Martinez asked why Fort Collins does not provide retiree medical as do 10 of the
12 benchmark cities. DiMartino replied the City opted to eliminate that benefit in 2010 due to the
financial liability for the City. It would likely cost the City $5 to $7 million over the next 5 years
to provide that benefit.
i
Councilmember Martinez asked if the statistics described about the high performance of the police
force are accurate. DiMartino replied in the affirmative. City Manager Atteberry stated
performance has never been a question and the force has always been considered top notch.
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December 19, 2017
Councilmember Martinez asked about the number of applicants decreasing over time. Deputy
Chief Greg Yeager replied applicant numbers vary over the years, somewhat based on the
economy.
Councilmember Martinez stated he is not at an impasse and does not believe the City should be
either. He stated some type of compromise needs to be found and the divide is not good for the
community.
Councilmember Overbeck thanked the speakers and stated, though he has met with the FOP in the
past, he did not believe it was appropriate for him to intervene and respond to their email during
the negotiations.
Mayor Pro Tern Horak stated he also did not believe Council should be involved during
negotiations. He stated he does not understand the logic that officers are not being treated fairly
because they don't receive Social Security as that benefit would likely be less than their plans. He
stated he would like to see additional discussions and noted this agreement needs to be equitable
for other City employees as well.
Mayor Troxell stated he is bothered by the "us versus them" perspective and stated Council
respects and cares for all employees. He suggested the best option is to approve a contract for a
year and continue discussions. All parties involved deserve a fair and equitable agreement. He
asked about the next steps moving forward. City Manager Atteberry replied there is currently no
agreement and therefore, currently no contract. As Council clearly does not want to see an
impasse, further discussions need to occur.
City Attorney Daggett noted the agreement for Council consideration is for two years and this
would need to be modified if a one-year agreement is desired.
City Manager Atteberry stated the formation of an exploratory committee to discuss the costs of a
defined program has been considered and with or without a contract, moving forward with 2018
pay adjustments is the fair thing to do.
Councilmember Cunniff stated postponement makes sense and,supported moving forward with
2018 salary adjustments.
Councilmember Martinez asked if discussion efforts continue if this item is postponed. City
Manager Atteberry replied that should be the case given Council's desire to not be at an impasse.
Mayor Pro Tern Horak made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Cunniff, to postpone
Resolution 2017-113 indefinitely.
Councilmember Martinez stated he would support the motion, however, there must be some
movement on negotiations.
Councilmember Cunniff asked if representatives from both parties meet regularly. Yeager replied
a labor management meeting occurs between the FOP representatives and the executive staff.
Recently, human resources personnel and DiMartino have been involved.
Councilmember Cunniff suggested a more regular meeting schedule regardless of the status of
negotiations in order to keep lines of communication open.
City of Fort Collins Page 113
December 19, 2017
RESULT:
RESOLUTION 2017-113 POSTPONED INDEFINITELY [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER:
Gerry Horak, District 6
SECONDER:
Ross Cunniff, District 5
AYES:
Martinez, Stephens, Overbeck, Troxell, Cunniff, Horak
ABSENT:
Summers
Mayor Pro Tem Horak made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Cunniff, to direct the City
Manager to implement the Police 2018 projected raises and to continue to reach out to the FOP to
continue negotiations on the following three items: retirement contribution, retiree medical
coverage, and conflict resolution.
Mayor Pro Tern Horak stated negotiations should begin as soon as possible and noted Council
would be willing to hold,a special meeting if necessary.
Mayor Troxell encouraged discussions and that an agreement occur post haste. He stated the
parties need to work together collaboratively.
The vote on the motion was as follows: Yeas: Horak, Troxell, Martinez, Stephens, Cunniff and
Overbeck. Nays: none.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
(Secretary's Note: The Council took a brief recess at this point in the meeting.)
• DISCUSSION ITEMS
22. Consideration of the Long Pond Wireless Telecommunications Facility Addition of Permitted
Use Request. (Adopted on First Reading)
A. Public Hearing and First Reading of Ordinance No. 136, 2017, Approving the Addition of Permitted
Use Associated with the Long Pond Wireless Telecommunications Facility Project Development
Plan #160018.
OR
B. Public Hearing and First Reading of Ordinance No. 137, 2017, Denying the Addition of Permitted
Use Associated with the Long Pond Wireless Telecommunications Facility Project Development
Plan #160018.
The purpose of this item is to decide whether to approve, approve with conditions, or deny the Long
Pond Wireless Telecommunications Addition of Permitted Use request (APU) being made in
conjunction with PDP160018. The APU would allow the addition of wireless telecommunication
facilities as a permitted use on a parcel of land located in the Low Density Mixed -Use Neighborhood
(LMN) zone district. Wireless telecommunication facilities are not a permitted use in the LMN.
PDP160018 proposes a 60-foot tall wireless telecommunications facility disguised as a silo at 2008
Turnberry Road.
Mayor Troxell introduced the item and outlined Council's role.
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December 19, 2017
City Attorney Daggett outlined the procedure to be followed for this item and noted Council will
make a final decision on the Addition of Permitted Use.
Cameron Gloss, Planning Manager, stated additional requested information regarding compliance
with the Federal Telecommunications Act and coverage in the vicinity of the project site has been
provided in Council's packet.
Clay Frickey, City Planner, stated this proposal involves a 60-foot tall wireless
telecommunications facility, disguised as a silo, at 2008 Turnberry Road. The site is in the low -
density, mixed -use zone district wherein wireless telecommunications facilities are not an allowed
use by default; therefore, the applicant must seek an addition of permitted use (APU). If Council
approves the APU, the applicant must still complete the final plan process and submit for building
permits prior to constructing the tower.
Frickey discussed the Federal Telecommunications Act of 1996 which states that cities must
permit cell towers within their jurisdiction and may use zoning to control the location and design
of the facilities; however, cities may not consider environmental or health impacts as part of these
applications.
Frickey showed the coverage map for the area and stated much of the area has poor coverage. He
detailed each criterion and associated staff recommendations for the addition of permitted use.
The staff recommends approval of the proposal and addition of permitted use with the condition
that the silo height be lowered to 45 feet to be more compatible with other silos in the area and
located closer to the other outbuildings to look more congruent with the site.
Christian Hendrickson, Sherman and Howard, stated more facilities are required to serve residents
as the city expands and discussed the importance of cell service for emergency calls. He stated his
firm is of the opinion the Federal Telecommunications Act mandates approval of a facility like
this where a substantial gap in coverage has been shown and the proposed site is the least intrusive
means of filling that gap.
Ken Bradtke, Atlas Tower Director of Operations, stated Atlas Tower owns, operates, and
maintains telecommunications towers and facilities and leases space on those facilities to carriers.
He reviewed the coverage map indicating a need in this area and discussed the need for service for
emergency reasons, noting a man in this neighborhood suffered a stroke and passed away as
neighbors could not reach 911 on their cell phones. He discussed efforts to approach other
property owners in the area, the Fort Collins Country Club and Anheuser-Busch, to no avail. He
showed photos of other towers in town and discussed the benefits of a taller tower.
Don Eason opposed the proposal and stated the tower will dominate the skyline. He argued
renderings presented by Atlas were incorrect.
Doyle Thornton supported the proposal citing the importance of life, health, and safety issues. He
stated he must drive out of his neighborhood to get good cell service and supported a taller tower
to provide better service.
Virginia Farver opposed the proposal and stated she is working with several groups fighting the
FCC concerning the 1996 Telecommunications Act. She discussed health impacts caused by cell
tower radiation and stated this tower is too close to residential areas.
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December 19, 2017
Kevin Forbes stated his parents own the"property on which the tower is proposed. He stated false
rumors about the technology have been spread among neighbors and expressed support for the
project.
Shelton Base supported the proposal and discussed his neighbor who died as a result of not being
able to call out. He presented a petition with 75 signatures in support of the project.
Jessica MacMillan stated cell service in the area has continued to deteriorate and suggested 7 or 8
towers are probably needed. She stated the design is appropriate for the property.
Tanja Andreas stated she is the nearest neighbor to the project and opposed the proposal. She
acknowledged cell service is a problem in the area; however, that is not the issue. The silo would
loom over her property and has researched likely property value decreases.
Katie McGerr supported the project and expressed concern about safety issues related to the lack
of cell coverage.
Jim Miles supported the project and stated there is no substantive evidence this installation will
decrease property values. There is a responsibility to serve the homes in the area.
Meredith Jordan supported the project citing safety. concerns. The proposal fits in aesthetically
with the area.
Ted Wolfe opposed the project and stated he gets fine cell service with Verizon at his home in the
area. This tower is larger than normal silos and cellular service should not be used as a primary
phone system.
Kurt Shriver stated he has been a real estate broker for 41 years and buyers have not been afraid
to purchase properties near cell towers. The modern homebuyer is looking for high-speed"internet
and good cell service.
Debbie Cory stated Atlas has not responded to questions regarding who they contacted at
Anheuser-Busch. She stated Sprint already has a tower at the brewery and suggested the applicant
may not be able to be trusted in stating it did its due diligence.
Joanne Harms supported the project and stated she runs a telephone support service for veterans
and her cell phone has never worked for that purpose. Aesthetic concerns pale in comparison to
health and safety issues.
Marsha Lowsley stated the federal government put a gag order on citizens with the
Telecommunications Act of 1996. She discussed health issues from cell towers in other countries.
Donna Onsvack discussed the need for cell service in the area, citing an issue with a neighbor's
home that caught on fire. She requested Council not be short-sighted in meeting the needs of
existing and new developments.
Eric Espedal supported the project citing safety concerns and the desire for the service in the area.
A neighbor put out a survey on Nexdoor and, of the 270 respondents, 88% were in favor of the
project.
City of Fort Collins Page 116
December 19, 2017
Julie Koerner opposed the project and stated she would not have purchased her home in Storybook
if she had known a 60-foot tower was proposed. She noted the City does not allow towers on its
properties in order to uphold community values and investments in such land.
John Koerner showed renditions of what he stated this tower would actually look like. The size
of the silo is not appropriate.
Nancy Eason opposed the project and stated Atlas' efforts to work with Anheuser-Busch were
insufficient. Locating the tower on a higher site would provide more coverage and questioned
why City lands cannot be considered. She also questioned if the Telecommunications Act applies
if Verizon is not a co -applicant.
Steve Surowiec supported the project citing safety concerns and the need for first responders to be
able to use cell phones in the case of an emergency.. He supported the 60-foot height given the
proposed new development in the area.
Jenny Forbes, owner of the property on which the tower is proposed, stated the tower is proposed
to be behind the large barn, not behind their home. A tower at Anheuser-Busch may not be
beneficial to certain areas. '
Hunter Harms supported the project citing safety concerns for the lake community.
Travis Griffin, Senior Manager of RF Design for Verizon Wireless, stated the Anheuser-Busch
property is almost 2 miles away from this location and locating the tower there could actually
degrade service in the area. Cell sites have finite capacities and keeping up with growth is a
challenge; this site is needed to serve the growing area.
Mr. Hendrickson clarified that Verizon has been in close communication with both Atlas and the
City and is being considered a co -applicant for the project.
Councilmember Stephens asked why City land cannot be considered for this project. Frickey
replied there is an administrative policy in place indicating the City will no longer entertain new
cell phone tower leases.
Councilmember Martinez requested a photo of the exact location of the tower on the property.
Frickey showed the proposed site plan and explained.the location of the tower. Ms. Forbes had
stated she was told the tower would be north of the barn, not behind the long barn. Frickey noted
Council is to consider the location behind the long barn, not the barn to the north. Mr. Bradtke
had stated the original proposed location was behind the long barn and the request from staff is to
move it behind the north barn, which the applicant is not opposed to doing.
Councilmember Martinez asked if the applicant would accept a 45-foot height. Mr. Bradtke
replied they would accept 45-feet but are requesting 60-feet in order to increase coverage to the
southwest.
Councilmember Overbeck asked if the height of the tower dictates the wind speeds it can handle.
Mr. Bradtke replied in the negative and stated wind shear is considered for all tower construction.
He stated he was unsure what wind speeds a 60-foot silo could handle.
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December 19, 2017
Mike Powers, Atlas Tower, stated he has reviewed engineering requirements for towers in various
conditions and they are built to withstand incredible forces for each specific location.
Bob Newman, Center for Municipal Solutions, stated he is a registered structural engineer and
noted the 2012 IBC will dictate tower design for wind speed and ice loading.
Councilmember Overbeck asked what would render the tower obsolete and therefore eligible for
deconstruction. Mr. Bradtke replied the tower would become obsolete if the government outlawed
the use of cell towers. Atlas will remove the tower if it is rendered useless.
Councilmember Overbeck asked Ms. Koerner to clarify her comments related to the Montava
neighborhood meeting. Ms. Koerner replied the Montava development is a large development
proposal west of Anheuser-Busch and the person running the neighborhood meeting from Montava
said they would be interested in a cell tower lease.
Max Moss, representative from Montava, stated he has offered the option to discuss opportunities
in order to solve the problem; however, he never stated he wanted a cell tower lease. '
Councilmember Cunniff asked what the range of tower heights is in the Fort Collins area. Mr.
Bradtke replied they range from 25-feet up to 150-feet in more rural areas.
Councilmember Cunniff asked what would occur with this lease if the property is sold and
subdivided. Frickey replied the approval would only be for this use on this one parcel and the
lease runs with the land.
Councilmember Overbeck asked if the applicant has ever built next to historic properties and if
property values have been affected as a result. Mr. Bradtke replied their most recent construction
next to a farm or barn was on the Kechter family's property on Ziegler. A report on that property
found the inclusion of a silo tower on that property would not adversely affect or deter from the
historic nature of the overall property. This project is similar. Regarding property values, people
place value on different things.
Mayor Troxell asked about the factor of noise in the APU process. Frickey replied all ground
equipment has to be screened either through landscaping or fencing. The application shows a
wood fence that would surround the equipment compound and would effectively screen the
equipment from adjacent properties; however, that does not include noise.
Mayor Troxell asked about the material of the skin of the silo. Mr. Bradtke replied there is
basically no discernable noise unless the backup generator kicks in. The skin is made from a
carbon fiber material.
Mayor Troxell asked if the silo top is open or closed. Mr. Bradtke replied it can be either.
Councilmember Cunniff expressed concern regarding future development in the area under the
LMN zoning.
Councilmember Stephens stated coverage equals safety and that issue trumps other concerns.
Councilmember Overbeck suggested a condition requiring the tower to be dismantled if
appropriate. He stated safety issues also need to be addressed on the side of wind speed.
City of Fort Collins Page 118
December 19, 2017
Councilmember Martinez made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Stephens, to adopt
Ordinance No. 136, 2017, on First Reading.
Councilmember Cunniff supported Councilmember Overbeck's concerns with wind loading and
suggested the inclusion of a condition that would require the design of the structure to be changed
to more compatibly fit in should neighboring structures be redeveloped. City Attorney Daggett
stated that condition would take some further work.
Mayor Troxell stated the wind loading issue seems unnecessary.
Mayor Pro Tern Horak stated advice from staff could be received prior to Second Reading.,
Councilmember Overbeck requested the inclusion of a condition requiring the tower to be
dismantled if it becomes obsolete.
Mayor Pro Tern Horak requested a firm definition of "obsolete". Gloss replied staff could return
with some suggested timeframes and definitions.
Councilmembers Stephens and Overbeck thanked the citizens who spoke.
Councilmember Cunniff stated he would be supporting the motion to advance the conversation.
Mayor Troxell clarified the motion has the tower at 45 feet in height.
Councilmember Martinez asked about the staff recommendation for the decrease in height.
Frickey replied other nearby silos are 45 feet tall; therefore, staff found the height would make this
more compatible.
Mayor Pro Tern Horak noted the north location by the larger barn will make the silo seem more
proportional.
RESULT:
ORDINANCE NO. 136, 2017, ADOPTED ON FIRST READING [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER:
Ray Martinez, District 2
SECONDER:
Kristin Stephens, District 4
AYES:
Martinez, Stephens, Overbeck, Troxell, Cunniff, Horak
ABSENT:
Summers
• Motion to Extend the Meeting past 10:30 PM
Mayor Pro Tern Horak made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Overbeck, to extend the
meeting past 10:30 PM, but no later than 12:00 AM, for -the purpose of considering the remaining
agenda items.
RESULT:
ADOPTED [5 TO 1]
MOVER:
Gerry Horak, District 6
SECONDER:
Bob Overbeck, District 1
AYES:
Stephens, Overbeck, Troxell, Cunniff, Horak
NAYS:
Martinez
ABSENT:
Summers
City of Fort Coffins Page 119
December 19, 2017
23. Boxelder Basin Regional Stormwater Authority (BBRSA) Fee Payments. (Postponed
Indefinitely)
The purpose of this item is to authorize the City Manager to pay fees normally due in 2018 to Boxelder
Basin Regional Stormwater Authority (BBRSA) in 2017. Ordinance No. 009, 2017, adopted on
February 7, 2017, appropriated the amount of $330k for this pre -payment in 2017. Staff has been
working with the members of BBRSA to develop an Intergovernmental Agreement (Agreement) to
resolve various financial concerns of the members. With the adoption of the Agreement and members'
completion of various actions defined in the Agreement, BBRSA will have adequate funds to meet all
2017 obligations. In the event of a delay in approval of the Agreement by all members and Timnath,
the payment of Fort Collins 2017 estimated annual stormwater service and development fees normally
due and payable to the Authority in 2018, will allow BBRSA to meet all obligations while members
finalize the Agreement.
City Manager Atteberry stated the Wellington Town Council passed this item this evening and
Timnath passed it last Friday afternoon in a special meeting.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak stated the Town of Wellington will be sending its payment to the Boxelder
Basin Regional Stormwater Authority tomorrow.
City Attorney Daggett clarified Council does not have an action item needing resolution this
evening; therefore, if there is no motion, the item will be completed.
Eric Sutherland questioned the meaning of this agenda item. He commented on the $42 million
cost of the project.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak stated Councilmembers wanted assurance nothing drastic had occurred and
noted this item authorized the pre -payment of already appropriated funds.
• ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Pro Tem Horak made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Martinez, to adjourn the
meeting and consider the remaining items at the next Council meeting.
RESULT:
MOTION TO CONSIDER REMAINING ITEMS ON JANUARY 2, 2018, ADOPTED
[UNANIMOUS]
MOVER:
Gerry Horak, District 6
SECONDER:
Ray Martinez, District 2 L
AYES:
Martinez, Stephens, Overbeck, Troxell, Cunniff, Horak
ABSENT:
Summers
The meeting adjourned at 10:52 PM.
ATTEST:,
SEAL
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City of Fort Collins Page 120 y