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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOUNCIL - AGENDA ITEM - 10/26/2010 - PRESENTATION OF THE CITY MANAGER'S 2011-2012 RECOM DATE: October 26, 2010 WORK SESSION ITEM STAFF: Darin Atteberry FORT COLLINS CITY COUNCIL Mike Freeman Pre-taped staff presentation: none SUBJECT FOR DISCUSSION Presentation of the City Manager's 2011-2012 Recommended Budget. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The City Manager's 2011-2012 Recommended Budget was delivered to City Council on September 3, 2010. Since September 3rd, the City Council has had a series of work sessions to hear details included in the recommended Budget and two public hearings to gather input from the community. For the October 26, 2010 Work Session, staff will present summary information to Council and solicit any additional feedback from Council. GENERAL DIRECTION SOUGHT AND SPECIFIC QUESTIONS TO BE ANSWERED 1. Presentation on revenue and key elements of the recommended Budget. 2. Review of City boards and commissions and community input on the Budget. 2. City Council discussion on the Budget adoption process and next steps. BACKGROUND The 2011 and 2012 Budget process began following the City Council retreat in February 2010. Since then, significant progress has been made by the staff that has lead to the City Manager's Recommended Budget. The Budgeting for Outcomes process included the following major steps: • Documented City Council priorities and shared these priorities with interdepartmental City teams (Results Teams) and department staff(sellers). • Solicited community feedback on Budget priorities; gathered input from boards and commissions on key result areas; conducted boards and commission/public forum. • Developed Requests for Results with input from City Council, board and commission members and the public. • Developed Budget offers categorized in seven key result areas. October 26, 2010 Page 2 • Results Teams reviewed offers and performance indicators, negotiated with sellers and submitted their prioritized list of funding recommendations to the City Manager and Budget Lead Team. • City Manager and the Budget Lead Team reviewed the Results Teams recommendations and made adjustments based on the overall Budget situation. • The City Manager finalized the Recommended Budget and submitted it to City Council on September 3, 2010. City Council Budget Meetings The City Council has held a series of work sessions in September and October to discuss the proposed 2011-2012 Budget. Each work session included staff presentations regarding specific result areas, followed by an opportunity for questions and discussion. The final work session will provide a summary review and City Council discussion regarding overall priorities,policy issues and funding allocations between results. September 13, 6:30—8:00 p.m., Drake Centre - COMPLETED • Budget public meeting for boards and commissions and the general public September 14—COMPLETED • City Council Work Session—Budget Overview and Transportation September 21 — COMPLETED • First Budget Public Hearing at City Council Meeting September 28 - COMPLETED • City Council Work Session—Culture,Parks&Recreation,Safe Community,Neighborhood Livability October 12 - COMPLETED • City Council Work Session - Economic Health, High Performing Government, Environmental Health October 19 - COMPLETED • Second Budget Public Hearing at City Council Meeting October 26 • City Council Work Session— Summary Review October 26, 2010 Page 3 November 2 • First Reading of the Annual Appropriation Ordinance and Adoption of the 2011-2012 Budget November 9 • City Council Budget Work Session November 16 • Second Reading of the Annual Appropriation Ordinance and Adoption of the 2011-2012 Budget ATTACHMENTS 1. Review of City boards and commissions input on the Budget 2. Community Forum Meeting Summary, September 13, 2010 3. Public comments received through the City's website ATTACHMENT 1 MEMORANDUM TO: City_ Council FROM: Afti)rdable Housing Board RE: City Budget---Funding Levels for the Affordable Housing Fund and the Human Services Fund The Affordable Housing Fund was established to meet the housing needs of low and moderate income citizens: and implements policies promoting and supporting self-sufficiency for low- income citizens. The Human Services Fund provides critical funding directly to local agencies that provide services such as rental assistance. emergency shelter, child care, groceries; and much more. These funds truly help those individuals and families in our community with the greatest needs. Recently, the poverty level has spiked in Ft Collins (from census.gov) from 16% to 21.6%, resulting in 29,OOO people living in poverty in the City. Principle L1V 8 of Plan Fort Collins states that the City will encourage the creation and expansion of affordable housing opportunities and the preservation of existing housing stock. The recently adopted Affordable Housing Strategic Plan gives the following 2 needs as our highest priority: Increase the inventory of affordable rental housing units, and maintain the existing stock of affordable housing. According to the Lorimer County Housing Needs Assessment completed last year by Community Strategies Inc, we are currently experiencing a severe deficit in the amount of rental units affordable to the truly needy of our community; those people that earn 50% or less of our area median income (AMI) and especially those units that are affordable to 30% AMI and under. CS1 indicates that there is a deficit of over 6000 dwelling units. These are the housing units that get people off the streets and into stable, safe housing.. These are the Section 8 housing units, the single room occupancy dwellings, units for people without much money. These are clearly identified and critical needs in our City. And since the study was done, there are even less units available, due to the current housing economy in which we are seeing many more renters than in the past few years, making this need all the more pressing. We asked for two "enhancements" in the current budget. )'t85.2. called Restoration of the Affordable Housing Fund, and #85.3, Restoration of the Human Services Program, which were unfunded. These funds, especially the Affordable Housing Fund, have been cut sharply over the past few years. The purpose of this memo is to respectfully request that these funds be restored, and at a minimum not reduced from their current levels, so they can continue to help the people in our community that really need this assistance . Further, should the sales tax increase pass, we would strongly urge Council to consider using a portion of these tax revenues to replenish some of the funding lost in these funds over the previous several years. Council, this difficult economic environment is your opportunity to reinforce your commitment to our community's basic needs. Please consider the housing needs of the low and moderate income as one of these basic needs, and remember that as the economy has suffered,jobs have been lost, and the needs of this group have risen. During this period of rising need, your support for this group has-fallen as funding levels have decreased. Maintaining, and even restoring a portion of these reduced funds; is critical for our community. Community Development & Neighborhood Service Boards & Commissions City Manager's Recommended Budget Feedback October 15, 2010 BRB September 30 LPC October 13 P&Z October 15 Worksession ZBA September 9 • From the board or commission's perspective, what are the implications to the community of the funding choices in the Recommended Budget as they relate to your area? • Does the board or commission agree that the priority order of the services related to their area is correct? If not, what changes would they make? Building Review Board The BRB discussed this item at their September 30 meeting. Staff reviewed budget information related to Development Review Center offers, that portion of the budget that most closely relates to the BRB. It was noted that at this juncture, the recommended budget carries forward the reductions that were implemented in 2009, but does not include any further cuts. Areas of concern of the BRB included: A) How the implementation of the Green Code will affect the budget. Staff stated that Utilities has the lead on the Green Building program and that related implementation costs, once known, will be presented to City Council, along with recommendations for funding those costs. The BRB board members are concerned about how the additional, green code, requirements will place additional time and work loads on the staff as currently staffed. B): Reduced proactive enforcement efforts. Their concern was that work load/staffing is such that there is very little time for proactive inspections. Staff stated that complaints are currently investigated as time permits. As well, Building Services staff has been working with Code Compliance staff who regularly drive through City streets and alleyways. They keep an eye on potential violations such was unpermitted work or dangerous buildings. It was noted that Code Compliance staff would soon be converting to the same computer system that manages building permits and inspections, which will help facilitate this work. Landmark Preservation Commission The Landmark Preservation Commission (LPC) discussed the 2011-2012 Budget at their October 13th meeting. The primary areas of concern expressed were: Design Assistance Program funding, the reduction of funding to the Zero Interest Loan program and the elimination of City's grant match funding. In terms of design assistance funding, the LPC stressed the importance of this program in assisting the City's greater goals as outlined in the East Side/West Side Study, Plan Fort Collins and the . Historic Preservation Improvement Program Report. The Design Assistance Program is one of foresight; where the overall character of a street, block and neighborhood can be enriched through thoughtful design aesthetic approaches. Moreover, LPC encourages investment in the design assistance program because it is a small upfront investment that has large, tangible yields seen in the community. Additionally, the LPC advocates for the Zero Interest Loan Program's funding reinstated to previous levels. The program injects money into the local economy and the City also sees a return on that investment in the form of building permit revenue. The same can be said for the City's grant matching ability. Without the availability of matching funds, the Historic Preservation Program is unable to apply for many valuable grants at the State and Federal Level. Please reference Historic Preservation Package Offer 174 as it offers details to the economic benefits these programs have. Planning & Zoning The Planning and Zoning Board reviewed the 2011-2012 Budget at their worksession on October 15. They had no feedback to offer. Zoning Board of Appeals The ZBA discussed the 2011-2012 Budget under Other Business at their September 91h meeting. Their main questions were with regard to wanting to understand the BFO process. Staff Liaison Peter Barnes provided the responses. The members didn't have any comments/concerns about he funding choices in the budget as they relate to their area. They didn't express anything about changes they would like considered. 3 Cultural Resources Board F QtV of 4 i 7 W. Niagnolia St &t Fort Co ins.CO 8052'Collins NI I N1 0 R AN D U M October 7, 2010 To: Mayor and Citv Council From: Sue Beck-Ferk iss. Chair Cultural Resources Board Re: 2011-2012 Bud,-,ct Thank vou lor your dedication to the critical task of setting a budget this war. The Cultural Resources Board (CRB) discussed the recommended 2011-21012 Bl.ld"Ct at Our regular meeting on September 30, 2010. We appreciate the adequate funding recommended for the Fort Fund program, and believe this program continues to make an impact in sustaining cultural organizations during these tough economic times. Although we understand cuts are being made across the organization, we specifically want to address the$150,000 cut to the Foil Collins Museum in 2012. Should additional funds be raised to strengthen the budget through the proposed sales tax or otherwise. CRB would like you to prioritize returning these funds to the Fort Collins ,Museum. The Board is concerned with the timing and amount of the cut to the Museum program. The new 40,000+ sq. ft. Museum will open at the same time as this proposed reduction. It will be a challenge to launch a world-class museum with significantly reduced funds. Staffing will be cut back at a time when the project will need all hands-on deck. We also find it ironic that a new Museum would open without an exhibit technician position of any kind. The Capital Fundraising Campaign for the museum project is also still in progress. If the City pulls financial support from the project, that can impact the projects credibility with potential donors. Private foundations and community members do not want to be the only funders, and need to trust the organization will be stable in the future and that the City will continue to value and support the museum. We reem-mize the difficult Choices the Council must make durina these difficult times. We ask that you consider the ramifications of cutting short the Museums budget at the exact moment when this brand-new, highly anticipated institution will open its doors. The community has high expectations for the exceptional visitor experience that has been promised through the voter approved Building on Basics capital tax renewal and the private capital campaign. We urge the City to do everything possible to allow these expectations to be realized. C0 Financial Services 300 LaPorte.Ave PO Box 580 6rt Collins FortCollins,CO 80522 970.221,6521.6505 970.224.6107 -Fax fcgov.com Memorandum To: Mayor Hutchinson and City Council Members From: Economic Advisory Commission(EAC) Christophe Febvre, Chair CC: Darin Atteberry, City Manager Mike Freeman, Chief Financial Officer Date: October 11, 2010 Subject: Recommendation on Economic Health Budget for 2011 and 2012 Due to the importance of economic development in fostering a healthy local economy, particularly within a local, regional, and national economy that has significantly and negatively impacted local employment and City revenues, the Economic Advisory Commission (EAC) STRONGLY RECOMMENDS TO CITY COUNCIL THAT THE BUDGET FOR ECONOMIC HEALTH BE INCREASED BY $150,000 with the purpose of enhancing development of the City's targeted industries and assisting in primary job creation/strategies for 2011 and 2012. The EAC believes that investing this additional money for these purposes will have a vital positive effect on short term economic development strategies and long term economic results for the City. The Human Relations Commission discussed their feedback for City Council relative to the City Manager's Recommended Budget at their October 14`" meeting. They suggest: • The cuts to the Senior Center, Mulberry Pool, North Aztlan Community Center(NACC) and Dial- a-Ride affect the poor and disabled in our community. Those cuts have both short and long term societal effects. If critical resources are not directed to these target groups, they'll suffer degradation in physical and psychological wellness. When children at NACC can no longer get tutoring, it'll affect their ability to succeed in school and life. Besides the personal toll,the community will pay later with costs associated with delinquency. • The Commission appreciates the continued financial support afforded them with budget appropriations. It allows them the opportunity to advance their mission for education and support for diversity. It also allows them the opportunity to collaborate with other community groups in that mission. Human Relations Commission October 15, 2010 b NIEi\IORANDUINI FRONT THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS NATURAL RESOURCES ADVISORY BAORD Date: October 12, 2010 To: Mayor and Council Members From: Liz Pruessner on behalf of the Natural Resources Advisory Board Subject: City of Fort Collins Proposed 2011/2012 Budget The Natural Resources Advisory Board considered the Environmental Health section of the proposed 201 1- 2012 budget at our meeting on September 15, 2010. fhe Board voted 6-1 to support the environniental health aspects of the budget. The no vote was cast by a Board member who felt that the Board should only act when we can have a significant impact and that supporting a stationary budget is not a very meaningful recommendation. This member would like to see growth in the Environmental Services budget and that by keeping the budget flat the City is not doing enough on behalf of the environment. In these difficult financial times the Board realizes there are many competing priorities for a tight budget; several Board members expressed appreciation for the fact that the Natural Resources Department's budget was not cut. Additionally the Board discussed the effect of the budget on City staff and the consequences of the cuts, mounting work load,and frozen salaries on the desirability of being a City of Ft.Collins employee.There is mounting concern for the morale of City Staff. They are asked to do so much,yet their salaries are frozen. They are hard working,dedicated and provide tremendous value to the community.The NRAB recognizes how much they do for the City. We support them and hope they know how much they are valued. Another aspect to the budget constraints is the potential to lose these very valuable employees with the consequence that the quality of City services will decline as well as the workplace. If this sort of decline continues; Ft.Collins could have trouble attracting new qualified employees.The best and brightest applicants could go elsewhere when they are seeking employment. NRAB feels that these potential consequences should be explained to the community. Please feel free to contact me regarding this recommendation. Respectfully submitted, Liz Pruessner Chair; Natural Resources Advisory Board 484-4371 Dear ivlavor Hutchinson and Members of City Council; On behalf of the Fort Collins Senior Advisory Board, we are writing to share our concerns regarding several matters contained in the city manager's budget recommendations. Fort Collins has received broad and deserved recognition as a leading community in which to live, work; raise a family, start a business and retire. For older residents. Fort Collins offers a high quality of life thanks to the depth of resources, amenities and services. These distinctions attract Seniors who want to retire here. What's more; current residents.don't leave: instead, they choose to stay and age in place. For Fort Collins to,remain a premier destination for retirees, it is critical that basic services are available to the Senior Community. Therefore, we strongly urge you to not cut the following: - Dial a Ride Nieht Service: This is an essential service to a vulnerable community that is already at risk for isolation. - Adult Proerams/Senior Center: This includes both programming at the Senior Center; as well as hours and days of operation. Fort Collins currently has a World Class Senior Center that provides opportunities to enhance the mental and physical well being of our Seniors. These services, even if maintained at current levels will in effect be reduced because of the demands of a burgeoning senior population. The relatively small savings today recognized by reducing these services will not prove cost effective in years ahead as the health; well being.. and independence of Seniors is compromised. Thank you for your consideration of our concerns regarding these budget cuts that will adversely impact Fort Collins Seniors. If you would like additional information or input from us on these or any other matters of interest to the Senior Community, please don't hesitate to contact us. Very truly yours; Fort Collins Senior Advisory Board Cherrie Thornton. Secretary r Transportation Board City �i Gary Thomas, Chair Fort Collins September 23, 2010 Mayor Hutchinson and Members of Council: At its regular September meeting the Transportation Board reviewed the transportation related items in the City Manager's Recommended Budget for 2010/2011. The following resolution was approved by a vote of 9 to 0: The Transportation Board recommends adoption of the Recommended Budget with the addition of Dial-A- Ride night time service funded through eliminating support for private endeavors such as the Foothills Mall study. In making that recommendation the Transportation Board made note of the following considerations: • A call for increasing fares on Transfort/Dial-A-Ride was narrowly defeated in a 5 to 4 vote. Belief that a small increase would more than cover the night time Dial-A-Ride costs was offset by concerns that the very low income riders who most depend on transit would be adversely impacted. • There was concern expressed for the service hour cuts in Transfort service on Saturdays. It is suspected that anyone riding a bus at 6:00 a.m.on a Saturday is probably on their way to work and cutting that service may impact their employment and financial stability. • The increase in funds for street maintenance is needed and appreciated. However, this is still not a sustainable level of funding. At the end of 2010 the cumulative underfunding of street work is about$I t million over the past four years_ This budget is an additional$5 million short for a new cumulative by the end of 2011 of$16 million. As the Council and T-Board both well know, the bigger that cumulative shortfall gets, the closer we are to wide spread street damage that is beyond any reasonable hope of recovery. • In recommending that funds be redirected from private endeavors the Foothills Mall study was only mentioned as an example. There may be other opportunities in the budget unknown to this board that would better serve the purpose. The principal behind the recommendation is that the city should not subsidize a private investment study when there are more pressing needs elsewhere. The minutes of.the discussion will have more detail_ And, as usual I would be happy to expand on these comments at your convenience. B/ r ds, / O Gary D.Thomas Board Chair 1 Natural Resources Department City ®f 215 North Mason PO Box 580 FortCollinz) Fort s,C080522 970.221.621.6600 970.224.6177 Fax tcoov.com/naturalresources MEMORANDUM TO: Mayor Hutchinson and Councilmembers FROM: Eric Levine, Chair, Air Quality Advisory Board CC: Darin Atteberry, City Manager Lucinda Smith, AQAB Staff Liaison DATE: October 20, 2010 SUBJECT: AQAB Recommendations on 2011/2012 Proposed Budget On September 20, 2010, the Air Quality Advisory Board discussed the City Manager's Recommended Budget. Following the discussion, the Board voted unanimously (7-0-0) on the following statement. In light of the financial difficulties confronting the City in the next two years, the Air Quality Advisory Board supports the continuance of the air quality budget as proposed in the City Manager's recommended 2011/2012 budget. While it is difficult to quantify, we believe the impact of the air quality program on citizen's quality of life exceeds the relatively small investment. Continuance of air quality funding at the level of the prior budget will at least preserve the existing outstanding personnel and program opportunities, and support progress on community air quality and Climate Action Plan goals. The Board recognizes there are there are significant air quality needs that must be addressed in the next two years, and the proposed budget does not go as far as we'd like to address air quality issues. For example, the Air Quality Board discussed concerns about the lack of full funding for the bike coordinator position and associated funding to leverage grant dollars. In general, many air quality issues will likely continue to increase in severity in the foreseeable future, and will place increasing pressure on City budgets. Planning for this now would be prudent. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Thank you for the opportunity to provide input. into the budget development process. ID ATTACHMENT 2 MEETING OVERVIEW COMMUNITY BUDGET FORUM Monday, September 13, 20107 6:30— 330 p.m. Darin provided recommended budget overview power point presentation, followed by a citizen question and answer period. Citizen Questions & Comments • Does this budget assume the passage of a tax increase? • As a senior citizen who participates in the outdoor recreation program and knowing that the baby boom generation will only increase the demand for these services. How can you consider cutting the cutting this program? If the tax passes will the services and programs be restored? • The budoet information on the web page is filled with detailed information with the exception of Poudre Fire Authority. Why is there not the detail shown here that is provided in other areas? • Years ago I moved from Denver to Fort Collins; when 1 left it had the ambiance of a shopping mall. I fell in love with Fort Collins. If taxes increase you force the lower income families to choose between necessities and enrichment. By closing Mulberry Pool you are taking away an affordable service to those who need it the most. • Why are we getting in urban sprawl? North College has been torn up for six (6) months. Why is there a traffic circle at Willox & College and no bike path on College? Why not use the money spent on the traffic circle to keep Mulberry Pool open? • Why is the City promoting King Soopers over Albertson's? This will only force Albertsons to eliminate positions which cannot be healthy for the local economy. • I see City Supervisors driving around in there white trucks, but I do not see them working. Why not eliminate those positions? • The City positions that are being eliminated in the budget; are these actual positions or vacant slots? • I do not see any reductions in the general fund for the Golf program. Is there a reason for that? • Will there be a reduction in the amount of money the City spends on outside consultants? • Why is so much money being diverted to the I25 and 392 Interchange? Will the City corporate boundaries expand to that area? How did the City acquire the land? • How many other options or solutions have you looked at so that the Mulberry Pool does not have to be closed? Are you open to other funding models? . • There obviously is a large group attending tonight whose interest is in keeping the Mulberry Pool opened. Have you considered raising the fee to pay for the operating costs?, • Would you consider seasonal closures, closing the facility for 3 to 6 months during the year? • In your budget allocation process are intangibles considered? Statistics prove that children able to participate in suitable programs are much more likely to thrive. Whv would you decrease the hours at Northside Aztlan Center? • Could you hire a volunteer coordinator to train and schedule perhaps senior citizen volunteers and cover some of the staff hours and costs? • The '/ cent sales tax for Open Space, why not place that on the November ballot for voters to change where those funds are directed? • It appears that Parks and Recreation are taking the bulk of reductions in this budget. Are any general funds going to open space that could be redirected to the Parks and Recreation programs'? • By eliminating funding for flowers downtown; decreasing maintenance and trash pick up in the downtown area. Are you concerned that this may lead to an increased loss of tax revenue, because the area will become less desirable? • Whv not ask the Downtown Development Authority to pay for the flowers.) • 1 am concerned about the funds used on road maintenance. This summer there were multiple paving projects that did not make sense. The roads did not need work so why were these projects chosen? The repaving of on Lemay between Prospect and Drake seemed extravagant. The Harmony Corridor? What about Horsetooth, Lemay and Willow Springs, which is in dire need was not touched. If you are adding$1 millions dollars to pavement management how can we be sure those funds will be used wisely? • I supported the building of the Mulberry Pool and continue to be a supporter. I feel that it is truly counter productive to close this facility. Is there any way to keep this pool open? I am asking for you to please keep Mulberry Pool open. • I am also asking that you reconsider closing Mulberry Pool. Without this facility there will no longer be lap lanes available for anyone other than those belonging to swim teams. Once you close the pool the foundation will collapse. You may as well raze the building. • How do you save money if water must be kept in the pool and chemicals would still be needed? If the situation for parents with children in swim teams becomes a hardship they will be pulling their children from that program. You will not be seeing a $190,000 a year savings and within 2 years the pool will be unusable. • 1 understand that the City is preparing to expand the Flood Plain area which will remove about 2,000 acres of developable land, will destroy property values, driving business away and economic recovery out of reach. How can you remove developable land from the heart of the downtown River District creating massive destructive changes for years to come? • In the past it was the shop owners' responsibility to keep their property maintained and beautified. Why not have Old Town Square property owners maintain the flowers and atmosphere? • I believe that there is no such thing as a good tax. Why not raise the user fee to keep the Mulberry Pool open?Why couldn't the City partner with Poudre Schools? The Schools could pay for operation and maintenance;The School Board could allow public access to the facility. • Why can't we re-purpose some of the $100 million general fund taxes? Take $2 million and re-purpose those funds for transportation. a • I am curious about furlough days. How much money does this save the City? Does this include all employees'? • Why are we not able to see savings for personnel costs on the web site? • How much does the City currently have in reserves? How does the City accumulate reserves? • If the tax initiative passes, how much money will the tax increase of.85% generate and where will that money be spent? Comment Cards received Contact: don nareinke )..comcast.net RE: Parks and Recreation Cuts I am a volunteer at the Gardens on Spring Creek. Why is there such a disproportionate amount of cuts being proposed for this part of the budget? There are so many good things being done there with youth programs. 2.400 lbs of food have been donated to the Food Distribution.Center via the"Eating Effort" to date. 1 understand the needs for cuts, but it seems as though the Gardens is being disproportionately targets. This type of facility greatly enhances the quality of life in a Community in so many ways. Much private funding has gone into the development of The Gardens. The staff at The Gardens is extremely dedicated and frugal. Many volunteer hours have contributed to the development of a fantastic botanical garden. Please see the value in work done there! No contact: The City should consider smaller buses for Transfort instead of the gas guzzlers they use now. There are not enough riders to justify using a large City bus. Contact: Rachel Collier(222-7973); rcollier@psdschools.org;rcollier2005 a)hotmail.corn Does the City realize the implications of closing Mulberry Pool and the effect on the Community? Mulberry and EPIC are the 2 pools that support CSU's Women's Swim Team, FAST Swim Team, Vortex Swim Team, High School Swim Teams, swimming lessons for people of all ages, abilities and recreational swimming year round. If Mulberry closes, EPIC will not be able to support each college student, high school student, swim team member, child, adult, and individuals with special needs, currently using the 2 pools. As a physical therapist, as a mother of 2 competitive swimmers and as a community member I implore considering other ways for budget cuts and keeping Mulberry pool open. No Contact: How will increasing the tax 0.85% impact the proposed cuts? No Contact: RE: Hiking Club Why can we not lower the number of hikes& up the fee for each; thereby maybe saving the program. Contact: Mark If the sales tax increase passes can you guarantee that Mulberry Pool will stay open? 3 No Contact: Have you considered the possibility of keeping the full-time horticulturist at the Gardens and eliminating only the part-timer? How can you have a community horticulture center without a horticultural i st? Contact: Marge Dugan (213-2670) Why were improvements made to Mulberry in 2009, when it is now being closed? I would like to make sure we are financially responsible when it comes to street maintenance. I understand being pro-active when roads are still in good condition but it seems that in the face of$4.5 million cuts, many subdivisions could get by with less substantial repairs. 1 would also like to say it was hard to stomach watching Harmony get torn up again this summer when it was just widened and repaved 2 years ago. Mistakes like this cannot be occurring in these economic times. Please call with the rational for repaving the entire Willow Springs subdivision. Contact: Mark, mark.kosmos a,aecom.com Good job with difficult and complex issues and choices. I support the Gardens on Spring Creek and the City's early commitments to get this facility established. It's almost there and close to a tipping point in being self sufficient. The cuts will affect its ability to grow more independent. I see the unique value of EPIC & Lincoln Center and want to know why the Gardens do not have the same "unaffected" status they do. The Gardens are a great resource and quality of life jewel that I do not need to drive to Denver for. Contact: Don Kipp (219-5265) don.kippe ii comcast.net How can we, the citizens, have confidence in the PFA budget when the city, by its choice, declines to share detailed budget information? Does the amount of fire related work justify the PFA budget? Is there a more effective way to deliver fire service? Is Transit Services really spending $10 million with $640,000 Revenue? Why is the 2010 Travel budget for Utility CS&A $1,700 per person (10 X the City average)? Why is "Office of the Chief' staffed at 13.5? Why is its budget 2 times per person over patrol? Why is its budget bigger(72X) the City Attorney's Office? Why is the City Manager's budget twice that of the City Attorneys Office when it has fewer staff? Contact: Linda Anson Idea— Collaborate with Poudre School District on using Transfort in place of the High School Bus routes. The school buses are mostly empty; parents often drive kids to school. Also collaborate on pool use; payments/Does Poudre School District pitch in? CSU? Park use and athletic fields over lap use, etc. Contact: Paul Rosenweig (221-2358): r u sure cumvbluelight.com RE: Alternatives to Saturday morning3ransfort cut backs. I need Saturday service most in winter. Could you cut back a.m. bus service more in summer and restore more a.m. service in winter? Route 19 is meant to serve CSU/FRCC, is the summer route 19 usage enough to justify its continuation in the summer? Contact: Jackie Charlesworth How can the City meet community needs if we close Mulberry Pool? How will we arrange to have community members to swim if all the High School competitive swimmers take all the lane space? BFO Public Comments Page 1 of 13 ATTACHMENT 3 Budget for Outcomes Public Comments ! Outcome: Not Selected. / Offer: Not Selected. i I remember when the Lincoln Center and pool were built. I remember when the Epool was remodeled and paid with the "Choice 95 sales tax". I do NOT want to remember when there WAS a pool there. Several folks use Mulberry pool and the pool is generating money. Many people with disabilities, senior citizens, local residents and swim clubs use it and it would . be a shame to have it close for "budget" reasons. EPIC and the Senior Center are packed as it is and trying to lap swim is a real pain now... It was paid for by taxpayer dollars and we as taxpayers MUST have a say in the matter. Put the budget out to the voters and see what happens. r Local Gossip - I hear that the closure is a done deal because council wants to j enlarge the Lincoln Center. If this is true... SHAME,ON YOU for playing politics with budget cuts. Sent on: Monday, October 18th, 2010 3:44 PM by Helen Schledewitz-McGinnis Outcome: Not Selected. / Offer: Not Selected. One item which you may or may not have addressed.already is the second mailing you send to all utility customers each month, ranking that customer's electricity usage for each month against other users whose requirements should I be similar. This process (which I understand was a trial program) has to be costing the City 75 cents to a dollar extra per month for every customer. It should be eliminated as a budget-saving measure, as it adds no value to utility I service. If for some reason that program has to be continued, the data provided could certainly be included with the monthly bill, instead of a separate mailing. You may have already taken this action; if so that's good. Sent on: Monday, October 18th, 2010 12: 18 PM by Wayne Haile -- -------— -- - Outcome: Not Selected. / Offer: Not Selected. As the founder and former coordinator of the City's mediation program, I am (saddened for our community at.the prospect of no longer being able to provide ((citizens with this needed service. I am hoping the offer to fund the mediation program is approved, for the good of our amazing community. (Thanks, Jenny Kidd ISent on: Monday, October 11th, 2010 11:23 PM by Jenny Kidd Outcome: Not Selected. / Offer: Not Selected. i http://citynet.fcgov.com/adminibfo/public-coimnents.plip 10/19/2010 BFO Public Comments Page 2 of 13 If you are in need of money, how about a fundraiser? It seems to work for those who are running for office. You see how much money they raise. And if this worked, don't waste a penny of it! Cut out all extra things that do not serve the people of Fort Collins. People like my husband and I are barely getting by, however, those that are making $250,000+ maybe will respond to some sort of i night out: a fashion show or some local talent or maybe even the college could I freely do some play that they already have done before to give people something ; special. Maybe you could ask someone famous to donate a concert for money? After all, the people that need-the money are the people who make them rich in the first place. Without the people that come and see their concerts and stuff, they would be in need also. Since you are in "need" of money, don't do anything costly to you, it would defeat the purpose! Humility goes a long way in a recession/depression. Just something NICE. I Sent on: Sunday; October 1.0th, 20.1.0 8: 1.9 FM by Parnela Schuessler Outcome: Culture, Parks and Recreation / Offer: Mulberry Pool `Jsut curious as to how much is spent on the flowers in Ft. Collins? they are quite pretty, but perhaps we could save the Mulberry pool if the flower budget were reduced a bit. how many city vehicles are there and when are they replaced, and at what cost? perhaps a little car pooling, and better routing could save some money and save the mulberry pool. How many administrators are there in the city and what is the general salary? perhaps we could trim that fat and save the Mulberry pool? Don't shut down the Mulberry pool, it is the only public pool north of prospect and serves our side of town and our schools. don't force the north of Prospect swimmers into cars and driving. Keep old town healthy. Loveland is building new facilities for swimming, making Loveland seem so wonderfully athletic, while Ft. Collins is shutting down athletics and promoting breweries. well thought out City Council, well done. I am guessing that you all live south of prospect. Sent on: Friday, October 8th, 2010 10:43 AM by Robert Work Outcome: Not Selected. / Offer: Not Selected. a If possible, I would like to see another trade-off in budget cuts. Having small kids, I am going to miss Mulberry Pool and the city's water features. I did not realize until this past year, what a fun child feature Mulberry Pool had and I was looking forward to utilizing it. Also, it has been a tradition for our family to enjoy the 4th of July fireworks. By dicountinuing the celebration, I hope that just means the day activities and not the fireworks. Don't know if even more closures or shorter hours at community centers could be considered instead of entire closures of ideas noted above. http://citynet.fcgov.com/admin/bfo/public-comments.php 10/19/2010 BFO Public Comments Page 3 of 13 Sent or): Friday, October 8th, 2010 9:56 AM by rViarija Balic-VVilson :Outcome: Culture, Parks and Recreation / Offer: Natural Areas Public Recreation and Amenities I i We need to support open spaces within city limits, not on the Wyoming border or up the Poudre Canyon. Perhaps the city could sell Gateway Park to a private entity. If the citizens could vote today on open spaces and whether or not we should continue the tax, I'm pretty sure the majority of people would say that we E should be spending our money more wisely. i On a side note, I have suggested more than once that the city should increase jthe lodging tax. Since Fort Collins is a great tourist destination, I doubt the ;tourists would mind paying a little more to keep the city great. When I travel to different areas, I certainly don't make my decision about where to visit on what +the lodging tax is. Almost every place that I visit, I pay a much higher tax rate than people do in Fort Collins. The great thing about that is that the tourists can usually afford to give a little more, whereas we the citizens are about tapped out on what we can afford on a day to day basis. One more way to raise more money for the city would be to entice Costco to locate here. My wife and I drive to either Superior or Thornton on a pretty l regular basis to spend money at their Costco's and the cashiers always tell us [that we are not alone...a lot of people from Fort Collins shop there. We could C draw people from a broad area including Wyoming and Nebraska if we had our own Costco. jThanks for your time, I Keith Hardes ! Sent on: Tuesday, October 5th, 2010 7:33 PM by Keith Hai-des !Outcome: Not Selected. / Offer: Not Selected. I'm not sure who these comments should go to... I have been swimming at Mulberry Pool at different times in the afternoon and on different days during the past month and in years past as well (I stopped swimming for awhile). I know that the upstairs offices at Mulberry have desks and other supplies/items inside, but I have not seen the lights on, nor any personnel in these offices any afternoon that I have been swimming..I remember that Suzi, the pool manager, travels between pools, but it seems to me that the city isn't really utilizing this space in an efficient manner. Isn't there a facilities person that monitors office space used by the city? Does swimming management really need two offices? In addition, I have noticed that the temperature of the showers in the women's E locker room is set too high---in other words, it's too hot. If I had a young child, I- would never have them stand under the shower heads. Could save a little money . I turning the water heater down, I think. k http://citynet.fcgov.com/admin/bfo/public-comments.php 10/19/2010 BFO Public Comments Page 4 of 1 i Seeing these inefficiencies at Mulberry Pool makes me question whether the city is really analyzing their situation and working to cut costs, or just looking for i "easy", big dollar item cuts. Sent on: Monday, October 4th, 2010 9:42 PM by Nancy Greenlee j Outcome: Culture, Parks and Recreation / Offer: Mulberry Pool I I am new to getting involved in local government, and honestly in the dark as to budgets for city monies is determined. I wanted to voice my opinion as to the possible closure of Mulberry Pool. I have recently (past 9 months) made a major lifestyle change and lost over 35 Ibs, and trained for and completed 3 .triathlons. A major part of my training has been swimming at the Mulberry Pool 2 x week. It I is within riding or running distance of my home, open when my schedule allows (I'm in Nursing school), almost always a lane is open, has a bike and treadmill I am looking forward to utilizing more as the weather turns again, the chlorine fumes don't bother my lungs like EPIC does, and I consistantly see programs like MS pool time, stroke clinic with Chris, water aerobics going on that would be sorely missed. This would be a large loss to this resident. Thank you, Laura Rogge Sent on: Thursday, September 30th, 2010 2:32 PM by Laura Rogge Outcome: Culture, Parks and Recreation / Offer: Mulberry Pool I believe that the Fort Collins Community has spoken loud and clear that closing I Mulberry Pool is unacceptable. City concil needs to propose other cuts or funding solutions and keep MP Open! I I Sent on: Monday, September 27th, 2010 6:30 PM by Charles Hicks -------- -------- ------—__._.. !Outcome. Environmental Health / Offer. Energy Efficiency and Conservation The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Funding seems excessive. Are there incentives that could be cut until better economic times? Could green building, expenses be delayed? Also I am opposed to furloughing the city employees two days next year. We are already not giving them any form of raise and the furloughs seem punitive for the employees. Night time dial a ride can be cut that is a luxury, closing some of the natural areas to reduce management costs, or reducing the museum hours and services are all areas that I think can save money. I. think during these economic times we, as a city, are not going to be able to have all the "extras" that we have enjoyed in the past. The bicycle programs could be cut, even the 4th of July could be cut. Although of all celebrations or festivals that incur an expense to the city I would keep the 4th of July. Cinco de Mayo could be cut (I have never understood why we celebrate another country's holiday) if there are city expenses. Thank you for listening and i thank you for dealing with this difficult and unpopular task. http://citynet.fcgov.com/admin/bfo/public-comments.php 10/19/2010 BFO Public Comments Page 5 of 13 Sent on: Saturday, September 25th, 2010 1 :5t PM by Ileanne Needham Outcome: Culture, Parks and Recreation / Offer: Senior Center Expansion Design I don't think we need to expand or plan to expand the senior facility in the next few years. I would rather see the Mulbury pool stay open as it provides for a E wider range of people in the community. Sent on: Saturday, September 25th, 2010 1:23 FM by Jeanne Needham E Outcome: Not Selected. / Offer: Not Selected. I currently use EPIC pool three days a week for lap swimming, and the Northside Aztlan cardio machines three days a week. I love both facilities and take pride in sending my disposable income to them. I am not a city taxpayer. I am a county resident putting "outside" money into the city facilities. I have been on the fence for some time as to whether to join the Fort Collins Club (privately-run health club), since they have a pool and better equipment than the Northside. If you close Mulberry, I will most likely join the Fort Collins Club. I am sure that I am not the only one who will make a similar decision. I Lastly, if this is the city's roundabout way of getting PSD to cough up some money for the city pools, I would appreciate it if you would simply say that. I am ashamed that the high schools do not have pools in this town,,and I would support an effort to get some decent pool space funded by PSD. In other words, you might have some supporters instead of critics, if you would just be up front with your goals. i i Kristi 1970-227-8008 i Sent on: Wednesday, September 22nd, 2010 11:21 AM by Kristi Johnson Outcome: Culture, Parks and Recreation / Offer: Northside Aztlan Community Center - Reduced i I am very concerned about the budget reductions to the Northside Community Center for it serves a large community of low-income users. The health and social benefits of recreation for our most vulnerable population can not be stressed enough. Our community is confronted with a number of serious health ` issues and the opportunity to engage.is physical activity is vital. WE must keep 4 http://citynet.fcgov;com/adminfbfo/public-comments.php 10/I 9/2010 BFO Public Comments Page 6 of 13 E our youth healthly. We as a community will pay now or pay later in both continued health costs (obesity, suicide, diabetes, etc) and in possible crime. Please consider the impacts of cutting programs specifically aimed at low- income! ! Sent on: Friday, Sleptember 17th, 2010 :01 Pir, by Irene Vernon Outcome: Not Selected. / Offer: Not Selected. I ;The recommendation to close Mulberry Pool is alarming. There are four high school swim teams and two club teams in Fort Collins that rely on city pools to practice and host meets. Mulberry and Epic pools are already overcrowded, requiring teams to practice at 5:30 AM, several times a week. Closing Mulberry Pool would effectively eliminate competitive swimming in Fort Collins, forcing many swimming families to travel to Loveland for their competitive program. A city the size of Fort Collins should be able to maintain 2 public swimming facilities. The fact that Mulberry Pool is very toddler friendly should also be a factor in the decision. Countless children have learned to become comfortable in the water due to Mulberry Pool's gradual slope swim area. It would seem the $190,000 savings could be offset by several possible reductions. Things like cutting back public swim hours at the pool when several lifeguards are required. What about city park pool? What would be the savings in closing down this purely recreational pool? Increasing fees and possible salary cuts could also I improve the bottom line. r t I am curious if we support the proposed city tax, will you guarantee that Mulberry Pool will remain open? It looks like we will be spending a lot more time in Loveland (swimming, shopping and eating), and we are not the only family considering this. What a shame that the city of Fort Collins fails to see the value !of competitive swimming. E Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 2:01 PM by Charles Hicks Outcome: Not Selected. / Offer: Not Selected. I laughed when the Newspaper told how you plan to balance the budget by cutting areas that the taxpayers enjoy- like swimming pools. How about cutting 20% of personnel and start with Admin- do the slash and burn like the citizens have had to do for the past two years. Cut out the waste- like photo camera- excessive police force- inefficient transportation deptment, Beet Steet funding, i Mason street project, North end development project- these are NOT necessary. !the citizens voted down the Mason Street project twoic and yet it is still on the list! Oh, also the people who man the parking garage while you wasted money on an automaticed system- cut them out!! How about the transit bus system that runs around empty- It is time you get some business people who have balanced budgets in tough times- face reality!! Lower pay, cut benefits etc. Get Serious before you ask for more taxes- and stop with the scare tactics!! bttp://citynet.fcgov.com/adminibfo/public-comments.pbp 10/19/2010 BFO Public Comments Page 7 of B Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 2:01 PM by Ruth A. Welle - ---- ----- --- --------------------= f Outcome: Culture, Parks and Recreation / Offer: Mulberry Pool f 'This is an important asset to having a healthy community. Please do not close :' Mulberry Pool permanently. I understand that there is a need for alternative 'funding. I support the tax increase. Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1:46 PM by Katherine Woods Outcome: Culture, Parks and Recreation / Offer: The Gardens on Spring Creek - Reduced i !Save our Gardens! The gardens on Spring Creek are a beautiful addition to our i community. Is is a wonderful representation of Ft Collins commitment to sustainability, education for our children, and a great showoff to our out of town visitors. We finally feel like Ft Collins is catching on to the culture we severly lack compared to other cities across the USA. Spend more dollars to market these gardens, and therefore increase your revenue. Lets build the 'great lawn' as it's about time we draw in musicians to this amazing outdoor venue. I was so impressed when these gardens opened, finally something to entice my senses vs. the addition of more concrete to our city. That is always to one thing I hear from my out of town guests, is that we lack arts & culture, and I agree 100% Please vote in favor of keeping funding for our gardens! Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1:42 PM by Marci White -- -- --------------- -------- ------------------- Outcome: Not Selected. / Offer: Not Selected. I Would like to protest the non-funding of Mulberry Pool facility for 2011. I think that mothballing the facility for an indefinite length of time (beyond 2011?) would involve numerous additional expenses in maintenance and loss of personnel and patronage that would make this truly a false economy. Closing is a simple failure of the City to keep its commitment to serving the downtown community. Sincerely, I James Heaton i Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1:41 PM by James Heaton Outcome: Culture, Parks and Recreation / Offer: Northside Aztlan Community Center - Restored* . This is a great program. It keeps kids off the streets and provides some guidance to youth who otherwise are susceptible to bad influences. We can spend the money here or on police services later. This seems like a better deal. http://citynet.fcgov.com/admin/bfo/public-comments.php 10/19/2010 BFO Public Comments Page 8 of 13 Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1:41 PM by Steve Wolley --- -------------------------- -------------------------- Outcome: Culture, Parks and Recreation / Offer: Mulberry Pool Please find a way to keep this open. Charge more to Poudre School district Shorten hours, something. Swimming sports keep kids off the street and out of trouble and provide for a lifetime of low impact exercise. Reduce costs by applying for grants to heat the pool with solar energy. Turn down the temp (it is always way to hot in there). Offer reduced fees to city employees or other groups to get fee income up. Check with your pool managers they probably have some ' good ideas. Increase fees at your cash cow, city park pool, by a 25 cents? per visitor to offset the cost of running Mulberry. Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 201.0 1 :41 PM by Steve Wolley Outcome: High Performing Government / Offer: Benefit Programs and Services f f There appears to be no other place to put this so I submit it here. Please find a way to give employees at least a 1% raise in 2011. Zero is just to demoralizing. If you have to reserve it for your lowest paid half of the team. These people are i likely struggling as it is. i Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1:41 PM by Steve Wolley Outcome: Transportation / Offer: ENHANCEMENT: Pavement Management Program i IN a year of budget cuts this offer should not be considered. Save this for a recovery year or years. Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1:40 PM by Steve Wolley Outcome: Transportation / Offer: Pavement Management Program - Maintain LOS B In a year of budget cuts this should not be considered. Save for a better economy. Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1:40 PM by Steve Wolley Outcome: Transportation / Offer: Transfort Operations - Reduced Given the low ridership it seems we should cut this even further..We seem to spend an awful lot of money to get a very few people around. Much as I like the idea of a bus service it just is not effective in our city. Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1:40 PM by Steve Wolley http://citynet.fcgov.com/adminibfo/public-comments.php 10/19/2010 BFO Public Comments Page 9 of 13 Outcome: Transportation / Offer: ENHANCEMENT: Transfort / Dial-A- Ride - Capital Procurements In a year of budget cuts this seems like a great candidate. Save this for another time. There will be other grants. Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1:40 PM by Steve Wolley Outcome: Safe Community / Offer: Police Core Information Services - { Restored I Fund this offer. We need professional services to assist our officers so they can do their job and arrests can stick. i Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1 :39 PM by Steve b%Jolley _.._. ....._... _..-- _.. _....... i Outcome: Safe Community / Offer: ENHANCEMENT: Information Services Dispatchers and Police Report Specialist I { I Fund this so we can be sure when people call in they get an answer and help Iwhen they most need it. Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1 :39 PM by Steve Wolley Outcome: Not Selected. / Offer: ENHANCEMENT: Seven Detectives, Three Investigative Aides and .75 Victim Services Advocate i This increase to Police Services is VERY desirable. Gangs are active in our !community. Drug sales appear to be occurring on the streets. Women must avoid many locations in order to remain safe from rape. Small time theft is ignored. Juvenile delinquency goes unchecked. Make our city safe! Fund this. { { ' Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1:39 PM by Steve Wolley Outcome: Safe Community / Offer: ENHANCEMENT: Twelve Patrol Officers (This increase to Police Services is VERY desirable. The city runs on close to uncontrolled at current levels. Near 100% speeding rate and. running of red lights causing excessive accidents and death of pedestrians and bicyclists. Right now drivers can do whatever they want. Small time theft is ignored. Juvenile delinquency goes unchecked. Women must avoid many locations in order to ! remain safe from rape. Make our city safe! Fund this. Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1:39 PM by Steve Wolley i Outcome: Safe Community / Offer: Basic Patrol Services - Restored i { i i http://cityiiet.fcgov.com/admin/bfo/public-comments.php 10/19/2010 BFO Public Comments Page 10 of 13 Keep Police Services at the current level. DO NOT CUT POSITIONS. The city runs 1 on close to uncontrolled at current levels already. Near 100% speeding rate and I running of red lights causing excessive accidents and death of pedestrians and bicyclists. Right now drivers can do whatever they want. Small time theft is ignored. Juvenile delinquency goes unchecked. Women must avoid many locations in order to remain safe from rape. And we want to cut police services......... 1 . Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1:38 PM by Steve Wolley Outcome: Safe Community / Offer: Basic Patrol Services - Reduced i Keep Police Services at the current level. DO NOT CUT POSITIONS. The city runs Ion close to uncontrolled at current levels already. Near 100% speeding rate and ' running of red lights causing excessive accidents and death of pedestrians and bicyclists. Right now drivers can do whatever they want. Small time theft is ignored. Juvenile delinquency goes unchecked. Women must avoid many locations in order to remain safe from rape. And we want to cut police services......... Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1:38 PM by Steve Wolley Outcome: Not Selected. / Offer: Party Patrol and Riot Prevention l Are you kidding??? Eliminate this???? Lets see if we can increase the number of j sleepless,cranky people in the community and see what happens. i 4 Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1:37 PM by Steve Wolley Outcome: Culture, Parks and Recreation / Offer: Golf Courses I If the courses are 100% self funded why is there a line item for them? If the city is carrying any costs associated with golf then fees should be raised to cover that. The budget seems to indicate that it does indeed cost the taxpayers. If so, raise rates and entirely eliminate this cost. Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1:37 PM by steve wolley Outcome: Not Selected. / Offer: Not Selected. Monday September 13, 2010 I Dear City Council members: I am writing to ask you to eliminate your proposal to close Mulberry Pool as a E budget fixing measure. I have been involved in the swimming community of Fort Collins for 15 years. I I http://citynet.fcgov.com/adminibfo/public-comment,s.php 10/19/2010 BFO Public Comments Page 11 of 1.3 have had a child swim for FAST (Fort Collins Area Swim Team) for 10 years and i for Poudre High School as a varsity swimmer for four years. I personally have utilized both EPIC and Mulberry pools for lap swimming throughout this 15-year period of time. t k 'Closing Mulberry Pool impacts the members of this community in several ways: 1) Compromises or eliminates swim club and high school practices and swim meets: Because PSD (Poudre School District) has never installed a pool at any high school in this town, girl and boy high school swim teams are forced to use Mulberry and EPIC pools for practices and swim meets. Swim clubs and high I school teams can only utilize pool facilities early morning or after school, based ion school hours. Late night practices really don't work for children; they either need to be going to bed or working on homework and getting ready for bed. SO, :there is limited space and limited hours to fit swim,club practices and high school practices in ESPECIALLY if only one facility is available. In other words, current practice and swim meet schedules will be cut for someone. Fort Collins has produced some of the top state and college bound swimmers in this state. Are you willing to jeopardize these programs and the success of these kids/students? I 2) Eliminates a swim facility used by adults, the elderly, the mentally challenged and those living on the north side of Fort Collins and in particular, a major minority population: Swimming is a life long sport; any age can do it. It is a fairly inexpensive sport; important for poorer families, the elderly and for everyone during recessionary Itimes. It is attractive to an aging population that desires to remain mobile and fit, because it does not stress joints. As a lap swimmer at Mulberry, I share the pool with many elderly citizens as well as younger adults with athletic prowess way beyond mine. I have also witnessed several mentally challenged individuals receiving swim instruction. Hispanic families come to enjoy the water features designed for kids. Mulberry is a much more personal pool. The seating around the pool is better for families with small children. The pool is easier to enter for elderly swimmers. It is a different atmosphere from the overwhelming noise and commotion at EPIC. By closing Mulberry, you are shutting off a facility that provides an important and fairly inexpensive exercise option for the elderly and 1 families with less disposable income. j 3) Decreases job options for teens: Working at a pool, life-guarding, is one of the few jobs that teenagers have access to in this town. With high competition from CSU students, teens in this town need any and all available job options. . IThe main level at Mulberry Pool is designed for swimming, so let's use it. Instead Iof offering multiple swim lessons and exercise classes at multiple facilities during i the day, utilize a portion of Mulberry Pool exclusively for morning and early afternoon lessons. As I said above, Mulberry Pool is a much friendlier atmosphere ; i http://citynet.fcgov.com/admin/bfo/public-comments.plip 10/19/2010 BFO Public Comments Page 12 of 13 i for children and parents observing their children. If the upper rooms at Mulberry are underutilized, then turn them into office space for city employees or hold classes in this space. Have you really considered and pursued options that would use this space in an efficient and cost effective manner? Have you considered k raising usage fees at both EPIC and Mulberry? Does the school district pay to use the pool facilities or are they given a pass? One major inside pool facility for a city of 130,000-140,000 just does not make sense. Not all of us can afford nor desire to be members at private athletic clubs. One of the city_ government's main functions is to provide services for the citizens of this community. Fort Collins is not a number one community because of the lavish city and county buildings the government has procured for itself in recent years. The strength of this community is based on the educational, cultural and recreational opportunities that it affords its citizens. Let's continue to offer the members of this community the health and safety benefits (knowing how to swim) a swimming facility provides. Let's look a little deeper and try to be a little j more creative when it comes to balancing the budget. Sincerely, Nancy C. Greenlee Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1:37 PM by Nancy C. Greenlee Outcome: Culture, Parks and Recreation / Offer: The Gardens on Spring I Creek - Reduced The Gardens on Spring is one of the best facilities that Fort Collins has to offer and doing a excellent job for bringing in revenue, not to mention being a wonderful educational facility for children and all ages. The future plans and what they have in store will even more of a rock solid foundation for the city's economic growth. Fort Collins has grasped sustainablity so well, here is where the rubber meets the road. We should be an example here, with everything the media has said about this City, the Arts and Culture portion/education/beauty and sustainability here bloom with places like The Gardens! This year they will hopefully bring in a projected 45,000 visitors and are working as steadfast as, they can to be self-sustaining: The recent event with The Garden of Eatin' was a huge hit! Offering Urban Gardening plots, community workshops & events year I round that hundreds of Fort Collins citizens love and gravitate too, the City of (((( Fort Collins needs to recognize this. 3 I have been a citizen here for almost 20 years, going to CSU graduated and never left and have supported the City and so many of achievements, please don't let us down and don't cut the money that is needed for the Gardens to gets their roots established. Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1:36 PM by Catherine L. Rogers http://citynet.fcgov.com/admin/bfo/public-comments.php 10/19/2010 BF.O Public Comments Page 13 of 13 i Outcome: Not Selected. / Offer: The Gardens on Spring Creek - Reduced I Why, with all the concerns of a shrinking economy, would the city propose a budget cut for an entity that is only showing growth and surplus? The Gardens j.are fast becoming a national landmark and with growth in the green industry(ie landscpe design/install/food crops/bee keeping edibles/green roof technologies) the city needs to maintain the highest quality facility it can. EThe gardens have shown a 140% growth rate in the past year alone, in attedance and they are fast becoming a venue to attract other forms of income with the interest in renting the facility for weddings birthday parties and much more. This will also help provide revenue for other local businesses. the gardens have also established a strong alliance with the Food Bank of Larimer County and I without a Horticulturist this allaince will be lost as well an abundance of food source for needy families, thus pushing the city into even more debt and despair. E 4 Any cut in the budget for this facility would be detrimental! not just for the city but for local businesses that also rely on tourism and local support and education a provided via the gardens I ! Sent on: Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 1:36 PM by Joanie Schneider, Board Member freinds of the Gardens of Spring Creek and Owner of Sustainescapes Landscaping http://citynet.fcgov.com/adminibfo/public-comments.plip 10/19/2010