HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOUNCIL - AGENDA ITEM - 04/01/2003 - RESOLUTION 2003-051 APPROVING AND ADOPTING AN UPDA AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY ITEM NUMBER: 30
FORT COLLINS CITY COUNCIL DATE: April 1, 2003
FROM: Michelle Pawar
SUBJECT :
Resolution 2003-051 Approving and Adopting an Updated Natural Area Policy as a Policy Element
of the City's Comprehensive Plan.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends adoption of the Resolution.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The proposed amendments to the Natural Areas Policy reflect the growth of the Natural Areas
Program since its inception in 1992. The Natural Areas Policy has not been amended since that time.
411 The primary amendment expands the City's ability to pursue land conservation in Fort Collins and
regionally. To provide manageability to the geographic reach of the City's land conservation, an
inventory showing focus areas will be presented by staff to Council.
BACKGROUND:
At the August 27, 2002,City Council study session,Natural Resources staff presented the findings
of a Land Conservation Task Force established to update and recommend broadened land
conservation opportunities for the City. City Council requested staff wait until after the November
2002 election to present to the Council amendments to the Natural Areas Policy including an updated
land conservation inventory. In November, Fort Collins voters approved the Open Space Yes!
Citizen's Initiative (65% approval) extending an existing 1/4 cent sales tax for 25 years. The
Resolution presents staffs proposed amendments to the Natural Areas Policy and an expanded land
conservation inventory.
Natural Resources staff has proposed amendments to Section 5.0 of the Natural Areas Policy Plan
(NAPP)in an effort to establish the policy basis for broadened land conservation by the City of Fort
Collins. The amendments reflect in part the sense of the ballot language passed by voters in
November 2002. The extension of the City's 1/4 cent sales tax for an additional 25 years
significantly impacts the City's current land conservation plan and its approach to land conservation
now and in the future. The proposed amendments represent the first modification to the NAPP since
its initial approval by City Council in 1992.
• In addition,staff has developed a list of land conservation acquisition considerations that will
be applied to each acquisition opportunity. These considerations provide guidance and
manageability to staff in assessing land conservation decisions through a logical and
DATE: ITEM NUMBER:
systematic process. Staff is developing this process to use as an internal tool. This is detailed in
section PL-2, Section 5.0 in the proposed amended Policy as follows:
PL-2 Implement a system of land conservation acquisition considerations by examining the
following factors (listed in no priority order).
Willingness of current property owner to sell
• Ecological value and importance
• Appropriate recreation opportunities
• Costs of acquisition
• Long-term stewardship costs
Expected threat to the integrity of the natural resource values of a property
(development, agricultural conversion, etc.)
• Geographic proximity to Fort Collins
A copy of the Natural Areas Policy with the proposed changes highlighted is attached to the
Resolution.
Staffs presentation will include review of expanded land conservation opportunities for the City of
Fort Collins. Focus areas delineate land conservation opportunities for the City. Staff will present
the focus areas and their distinguishing characteristics consistent with natural resources protection,
community separation and/or other types of land conservation. A map showing the focus areas is
attached to the Resolution.
Focus Area I
Small-to moderate-sized conservation sites with a range of ecological values. Conservation of the
Poudre River corridor and land protection in community separators (Timnath-Windsor and
Wellington Separators) are significant components within Focus Area I. Acquisition costs are
generally high due to development potential in and near town. Restoration and maintenance costs
are generally high as well since many areas exhibit past land uses such as gravel mining,intensive
crop agriculture, and other uses that have modified the land from a natural condition.
Focus Area II
Land conservation opportunities include mixed ecological values(high value for foothills properties
and lower value for agricultural lands). A large focus in the Dry Creek area will be the acquisition
of agricultural easements and farmland protection. Acquisition costs are moderate to high due to
increased property values within 10-20 minute driving time from downtown. Stewardships costs on
fee simple acquired lands are generally low to moderate since many areas are relatively undeveloped
or have been used for livestock grazing.
Focus Area III
Focus Area III includes regional land conservation opportunities with high ecological, national
and/or cultural significance(e.g.,large expanses of native shortgrass prairie,significant archeological
deposits and geologic formations). Acquisition costs are generally lower since the purchase of larger
tracts reduces the cost per acre. Open lands (natural areas)owned in fee are generally open to the
public and are destination oriented as they are within a 20 to 45 minute drive of downtown.
Stewardship and site restoration costs are low to moderate. They depend upon the "natural"
condition of the land,and the extent of trails to be built,required fencing,and necessary patrol based
on level of public access.
DATE: n , zuuj j ITEM NUMBER: JU
Attachments
Attachment I: Natural Areas Policy(amendments highlighted)
Attachment II: Public Involvement Basis for Policy Amendments & Regional Land
Conservation
Attachment I
Natural Areas Policy (amendments highlighted)
5.0 POLICY PLAN—4/1/03
This chapter looks to the future of natural areas in Fort Collins. Its intent is to (1)
summarize pertinent facts about the conservation of local natural areas through a
statement of Findings, (2) establish a community vision for natural areas in a statement
of Goals and Objectives, and (3) direct future City programs to achieve that vision with
specific Policies.
The Goals, Objectives and Policies require adoption by the Planning and Zoning Board
and approval by City Council. Once adopted, these statements form the foundation of the
City's position and approach to natural areas. The Goals, Objectives, and Policies
provide the official direction to the City of Fort Collins regarding natural and will be
used to guide the development of master plans, work plans, City programs, budget
recommendations and other implementation strategies.
FINDINGS
• The following findings regarding local natural areas are based on an inventory of natural
areas, a review of existing policies and programs, research into the value of natural areas,
and the comments of citizens and organizations.
1. Fort Collins, and the surrounding 1.3rbart Growth Are
MMIREcontain remarkably diverse natural areas that (1) provide habitat for the
conservation of plants, animals, and their associated ecosystems, (2) aid in the
management of stormwater, (3) help clean the water, and (4) provide sites for
scientific research,education, art, and recreation, among other values.
2. The citizens of Fort Collins care about local natural areas and expect
their City government to take appropriate action to protect and preserve sensitive
natural sites and systems.
3. There are many opportunities and challenges that demand a multi-faceted a roach to
the protection and preservation of natural areas in Fort Collins
4. Fort Collins has begun to protect, acquire, and manage land and water resource areas
to protect or enhance their natural values.
5. As a home rule city, Fort Collins has the ability to regulate activities in natural areas.
The City has used this authority in the past in the areas of land use, pollution
prevention, and nuisance control.
1
6.
7. Several local natural areas support populations of plants and animals that are
classified as endangered, threatened, or of special concern at the State or Federal
level.
8. Natural areas offer outstanding opportunities for environmental education, nature
interpretation, and outdoor recreation.
9. Management and maintenance programs have an important effect on both public and
private natural areas. Human use, construction of facilities, landscaping, weed
control, and ongoing maintenance activity may all impact the resource values of
natural areas.
10. Although few local 13MIM natural areas are pristine, many of these areas
support a high diversity of native plants and animals. Some natural areas have more
severe problems with accumulated trash or debris, soil erosion, and undesirable
vegetation, and could be enhanced to increase natural resource values.
11. Several species of exotic plants have invaded local Mjjj= natural areas and
threaten to outicompete native plant communities and reduce wildlife habitat values.
12. Natural areas can be sources of conflict if there are negative interactions between
people and wildlife, or if areas are perceived as unattractive or neglected. Acceptable
solutions can be devised by involving citizens in the development of management
plans, addressing potential conflicts in site design, and combining public education,
habitat management, and wildlife population control.
13. In some areas, additional information is needed to assess the status and values of
local natural areas, and to evaluate the results of programs to protect or
enhance their values.
14. Protection and preservation of natural areas is consistent with and complements other
City priorities.
15. While there is opportunity to integrate natural areas conservation into existing City
programs, meeting these new needs will require a broader definition of program
goals, more integrated planning, and additional resources.
2
• 16. Protection and preservation of local natural areas complements the
activities of a variety of other governmental entities, including, Latimer County,
Poudre R-+ School District, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Colorado State
University, Colorado Department of Parks and Outdoor Recreation, U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service,Environmental Protection Agency, and others.
17. Citizens, landowners, and private organizations want to be actively involved in
decisions and programs that shape the future of Fort Collins natural areas. They
become involved in natural areas protection in a variety of ways: by protecting
natural areas on private lands; by donating land, water, time, or expertise; and by
participating in public decisionmaking. The interest and involvement of the
community is a necessary resource for the protection of natural areas.
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
Based on the findings above, the following Goals and Objectives are recommended to
capture a community vision for natural areas in Fort Collins.
Goal
Preserve and protect natural areas within Fort Collins, and the etbatt Growth
. Area, to provide habitat essential to the conservation of
plants, animals, and their associated ecosystems and to enrich-the lirocs
citizens by providing opportunities for education, scientific research,
nature interpretation, art, fishing, wildlife observation, hiking,
activities.
Objectives
1. Establish a system of publicly-owned natural areas to protect the integrity of critical
conservation sites, protect corridors between natural areas, preserve outstanding
examples of Fort Collins' diverse natural heritage, and provide a broad range of
opportunities for educational, interpretive, and recreational programs to meet
community needs.
2. Integrate natural areas into the developed landscape by directing development away
from sensitive areas and using innovative planning, design, and management
practices.
3. Provide diverse educational, interpretive, and recreational programs to promote
understanding and enjoyment of natural areas by the Fort Collins community.
4. Develop effective artnerships between the City, other governmental
and the private sector for the protection and preservation
• of natural areas.
3
5. Develop and maintain a data inventory on local natural areas to aid the
City and the public in decisions about these areas, and management of publicly-
owned lands.
POLICIES
The following policy statements will guide actions by the City of Fort Collins to achieve
the recommended goals and objectives for natural areas. Once adopted by the Planning
and Zoning Board and approved by City Council, the policy statements are official
statements of intent that set a future course of action for the City. As such, the policies
give direction for land use decisions, and for the development of master
plans, work plans, City programs, budget recommendations, and other implementation
strategies. Due to budget limitations, City Council priorities, and other factors, not all
policies will be implemented at the same time.
Deffnition
Natural areas are defined as areas of land or water that contain or support the continued
existence of geological, paleontological, ecological, or other natural features that are (1)
important to the conservation of natural resources that are classified as endangered or
threatened, sensitive to impact from human activity, or otherwise in need of protection;
(2) important to the conservation of natural resources that provide environmental
protection, recreational, educational, scientific, aesthetic, or economic benefits; and (3)
unique or rare examples of our natural heritage.
Public Land Manaeement
PL-1 Acquire and manage land and water to preserve, protect, and enhance natural areas.
PL-1 Coordinate natural areas and other open land programs within the City
to maximize public benefit and explore ways of integrating natural areas protection into
ongoing City programs.
4
PL-1 Manage, maintain, and enhance public natural areas to ensure the ongoing
conservation of plants and animals that are in need of protection and their associated
ecosystems; control the invasion and spread of undesirable nonnative plants and animals;
improve aesthetics; and provide opportunities for public use.
PL-1 Manage conflicts between people and natural areas through site design, public
information and education, habitat manipulation, and plant and animal population
management techniques.
PL-�Involve citizens in planning the management of public natural areas.
Private Land Management
PR-1 Use the City's regulatory powers to (1) direct growth away from sensitive natural
features, (2) encourage the integration of natural areas into the developed landscape, and
(3) preserve and protect the resources and values of natural areas.
PR-2 Encourage and assist efforts by private landowners and organizations to integrate
natural areas into new development and to protect, restore, or enhance privately-owned
natural areas.
Recreation,Interpretation, and Education
. RE-1 Provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, formal and informal education, and
interpretive programs on local natural features to the community.
Cooperation With Others
CO-1 Seek the cooperation and assistance of citizens, businesses, community groups,
conservation organizations, and governmental agencies in the development and
implementation of programs to protect and preserve local natural areas.
Public Information
PI-1 Collect, maintain, and distribute up-to-date information on the location, values,
status, and management needs of local natural areas.
Program Funding
PF-1 Seek alternative funding sources to implement natural area policies and programs,
including private, State, and Federal grants, and donations of money, property, and in-
kind services.
Program Evaluation
. PE-1 Report periodically on the status of natural areas in the community.
5
ATTACHMENT II
Public Involvement Basis for Policy Amendments &Regional Land Conservation
• Voter approval of City and County land conservation taxes (1992, 95, 97, 99, 02)
• Survey (scientifically valid)of Fort Collins' residents to Latimer County's (2000)
Open Lands Citizen Survey
• Public outreach focused on the citizens of Fort Collins as part of the Latimer
County Open Lands Master Plan (2001)where 20 of 43 public meetings were
open to citizen (Fort Collins) input. This included 4 open houses held in Fort
Collins which were advertised in Coloradoan.
• Land Conservation Update Task Force (2002)—citizen and professionals
• Voter passage of Fall 2002 Open Space Yes! Ballot Initiative by 65% (2002)
6
RESOLUTION 2003-051
. OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
APPROVING AND ADOPTING AN UPDATED NATURAL AREA POLICY
AS A POLICY ELEMENT OF THE CITY'S COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
WHEREAS, on September 28, 1992, the Planning and Zoning Board adopted Resolution
PZ 92-14 of the Planning and Zoning Board, approving the Natural Areas Policy Plan and
recommending the inclusion of the "Policy Element" in Chapter 5 of said Plan as an element of
the City 's Comprehensive Plan; and
WHEREAS, on October 6, 1992, the City Council adopted Resolution 92-156, accepting
the Natural Areas Policy Plan and Approving the "Policy Element" in Chapter 5 of said Plan as
an element of the City's Comprehensive Plan; and
WHEREAS, since the adoption of the Natural Areas Policy Plan in 1992, the voters of
the City have approved tax funding for natural areas and related land conservation activities in
1992, 1997 and 2002; and
WHEREAS, since that time the voters of Latimer County have also approved tax funding
for the County for natural areas and related land conservation activities in 1995 and 1999, a
portion of which tax funding is designated for use by the City in carrying out its Natural Areas
Policy Plan and trails program; and
WHEREAS, in light of the various funding sources currently available for natural areas
acquisition and conservation activities, and the extent to which the information and Natural
Areas Program have grown and changed since 1992, City staff has proposed certain amendments
to the Natural Areas policy to reflect the program's growth including an expanded scope in types
of land conservation and the location of land; and
WHEREAS, in 2000, Larimer County as part of the Larimer County Open Lands Master
Plan updated (completed in 2001) conducted extensive public outreach, including more than 20
public meetings attended by the citizens of Fort Collins, and a scientifically valid Citizen Survey
of which more than 50% of the respondents were residents of Fort Collins, which survey
determined that 79% of Fort Collins respondents were in favor of purchase of open lands for
public use, 68% were in favor of purchase of open lands for limited public use, and 66% were in
favor of the purchase of open lands for non-public use (wildlife habitat&visual resources); and
WHEREAS, in order to begin the process of updating the Natural Areas Policy Plan, City
staff convened a task force of citizens and professionals, known as the Land Conservation
Update Task Force, which has reviewed citizen input for land conservation, sensitive ecological
areas, potential community separators, important viewsheds and floodplains, and important
agricultural lands, and has identified and recommended areas of local and regional land
conservation opportunities which were presented to and reviewed by Fort Collins City Council
on August 27, 2002; and
• WHEREAS, staff has developed the proposed amended Natural Areas Policy attached
hereto as Exhibit "A" (the "Updated Natural Areas Policy') based on the public input and
outreach received so far, and is requesting that the Council approve it; and
WHEREAS, the Updated Natural Areas Policy provides for the evaluation of natural area
land acquisition and conservation decisions based on specified criteria, including willingness of
current property owner to sell, ecological value and importance, geographic relationship to
identified focus areas and to Fort Collins, opportunities for appropriate recreation, acquisition
and long-term stewardship costs, expected threat to the integrity of the natural resource values of
the property, and provides for acquisition of local and regional lands based on those criteria; and
WHEREAS, the three general focus areas that have been identified as the highest
priorities for the City's Natural Areas program by City staff, in consultation with the Land
Conservation Update Task Force, are indicated on the map attached hereto as Exhibit `B'; and
WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Board considered the Updated Natural Areas
Policy on February 28, 2003, and voted to recommend approval of the same; and
WHEREAS, the Natural Resources Advisory Board considered the Updated Natural
Areas Policy on March 26, 2003, and voted to recommend approval of the same; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that it is in the best interest of the City to
approve the Updated Natural Areas Policy, in order to amend the policy element of the
previously approved Natural Areas Policy Plan, and to adopt the Updated Natural Areas Policy
as an element of the City's Comprehensive Plan.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT
COLLINS as follows:
Section 1. The Updated Natural Areas Policy as shown on Exhibit "A" attached
hereto and incorporated herein by this reference, is hereby approved and shall supercede as a
policy element of the Natural Areas Policy Plan the previously approved Chapter 5 of said Plan.
Section 2. The Updated Natural Areas Policy as shown on Exhibit "A" attached
hereto and incorporated herein by this reference, is hereby adopted as an element of the City's
Comprehensive Plan to supercede the previously adopted "Policy Element" in Chapter 5 of the
Natural Areas Policy Plan.
Section 3. The Conservation Focus Areas Map, attached hereto as Exhibit `B" and
incorporated herein by this reference is hereby approved as a general guide for the
implementation of the Updated Natural Areas Policy so as to benefit and advance the interests of
the citizens of Fort Collins.
Passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council held this Ist day of April,
A.D. 2003.
Mayor
ATTEST:
City Clerk
EXHIBIT "A"
iUpdated Natural Areas Policy
April 1, 2003
5.0 POLICY PLAN
This chapter looks to the future of natural areas in Fort Collins. Its intent is to (1)
summarize pertinent facts about the conservation of local natural areas through a
statement of Findings, (2) establish a community vision for natural areas in a statement
of Goals and Objectives, and (3) direct future City programs to achieve that vision with
specific Policies.
The Goals, Objectives and Policies require adoption by the Planning and Zoning Board
and approval by City Council. Once adopted, these statements form the foundation of the
City's position and approach to natural areas. The Goals, Objectives, and Policies
provide the official direction to the City of Fort Collins regarding natural and will be
used to guide the development of master plans, work plans, City programs, budget
recommendations and other implementation strategies.
FINDINGS
The following findings regarding local natural areas are based on an inventory of natural
areas, a review of existing policies and programs, research into the value of natural areas,
• and the comments of citizens and organizations.
1. Fort Collins, the surrounding Growth Management Area, and the broader regional
area contain remarkably diverse natural areas that (1) provide habitat for the
conservation of plants, animals, and their associated ecosystems, (2) aid in the
management of stormwater, (3) help clean the water, and (4) provide sites for
scientific research,education, art, and recreation, among other values.
2. The citizens of Fort Collins care about local and regional natural areas and expect
their City government to take appropriate action to protect and preserve sensitive
natural sites and ecosystems.
3. There are many opportunities and challenges that demand a multi-faceted approach to
the protection and preservation of natural areas in Fort Collins and regionally.
4. Fort Collins has begun to protect, acquire, and manage land and water resource areas
to protect or enhance their natural values.
5. As a home rule city, Fort Collins has the ability to regulate activities in natural areas.
The City has used this authority in the past in the areas of land use, pollution
prevention, and nuisance control.
• 6. Land use planning is being incorporated as one of the tools used in Fort Collins to
protect natural habitat and features. City Plan, the City of Fort Collins
1
comprehensive plan, communicates the City's values of environmental protection and
stewardship. The regulatory arm of the City Plan is the Fort Collins Land Use Code,
which provides natural habitat and features protection standards along with criteria
for site planning and design. The implementation of these standards provides
opportunity for better integration of natural habitats and features with planned
developments.
7. Several local natural areas support populations of plants and animals that are
classified as endangered, threatened, or of special concern at the State or Federal
level.
8. Natural areas offer outstanding opportunities for environmental education, nature
interpretation, and outdoor recreation.
9. Management and maintenance programs have an important effect on both public and
private natural areas. Human use, construction of facilities, landscaping, weed
control, and ongoing maintenance activity may all impact the resource values of
natural areas.
10. Although few local and regional natural areas are pristine, many of these areas
support a high diversity of native plants and animals. Some natural areas have more
severe problems with accumulated trash or debris, soil erosion, and undesirable
vegetation, and could be enhanced to increase natural resource values.
11. Several species of exotic plants have invaded local and regional natural areas and
threaten to out-compete native plant communities and reduce wildlife habitat values.
12. Natural areas can be sources of conflict if there are negative interactions between
people and wildlife, or if areas are perceived as unattractive or neglected. Acceptable
solutions can be devised by involving citizens in the development of management
plans, addressing potential conflicts in site design, and combining public education,
habitat management, and wildlife population control.
13. In some areas, additional information is needed to assess the status and values of
local and regional natural areas, and to evaluate the results of programs to protect or
enhance their values.
14. Protection and preservation of natural areas is consistent with and complements other
City priorities.
15. While there is opportunity to integrate natural areas conservation into existing City
programs, meeting these new needs will require a broader definition of program
goals, more integrated planning, and additional resources.
16. Protection and preservation of local and regional natural areas complements the
activities of a variety of other governmental entities, including, Latimer County,
2
Poudre School District, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Colorado State University,
Colorado Department of Parks and Outdoor Recreation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service, U.S. Forest Service,Environmental Protection Agency, and others.
17. Citizens, landowners, and private organizations want to be actively involved in
decisions and programs that shape the future of Fort Collins natural areas. They
become involved in natural areas protection in a variety of ways: by protecting
natural areas on private lands; by donating land, water, time, or expertise; and by
participating in public decisionmaking. The interest and involvement of the
community is a necessary resource for the protection of natural areas.
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
Based on the findings above, the following Goals and Objectives are recommended to
capture a community vision for natural areas in Fort Collins.
Goal
Preserve and protect natural areas within Fort Collins, the Growth Management Area,
and regionally, to provide habitat essential to the conservation of plants, animals, and
their associated ecosystems and to benefit the citizens of Fort Collins by providing
. opportunities for education, scientific research, nature interpretation, art, fishing, wildlife
observation, hiking, and other appropriate recreational activities.
Objectives
1. Establish a system of publicly-owned natural areas to protect the integrity of critical
conservation sites, protect corridors between natural areas, preserve outstanding
examples of Fort Collins' diverse natural heritage, and provide a broad range of
opportunities for educational, interpretive, and recreational programs to meet
community needs.
2. Integrate natural areas into the developed landscape by directing development away
from sensitive areas and using innovative planning, design, and management
practices.
3. Provide diverse educational, interpretive, and recreational programs to promote
understanding and enjoyment of natural areas by the Fort Collins community.
4. Develop effective partnerships between the City, other governmental and non-
governmental organizations, and the private sector for the protection and preservation
of natural areas.
3
I
5. Develop and maintain a data inventory on local and regional natural areas to aid the
City and the public in decisions about these areas, and management of publicly-
owned lands.
POLICIES
The following policy statements will guide actions by the City of Fort Collins to achieve
the recommended goals and objectives for natural areas. Once adopted by the Planning
and Zoning Board and approved by City Council, the policy statements are official
statements of intent that set a future course of action for the City. As such, the policies
give direction for land use and conservation decisions, and for the development of master
plans, work plans, City programs, budget recommendations, and other implementation
strategies. Due to budget limitations, City Council priorities, and other factors, not all
policies will be implemented at the same time.
Definition
Natural areas are defined as areas of land or water that contain or support the continued
existence of geological, paleontological, ecological, or other natural features that are (1)
important to the conservation of natural resources that are classified as endangered or
threatened, sensitive to impact from human activity, or otherwise in need of protection;
(2) important to the conservation of natural resources that provide environmental
protection, recreational, educational, scientific, aesthetic, or economic benefits; and (3)
unique or rare examples of our natural heritage.
Public Land Management
PL-1 Acquire and manage land and water to preserve, protect, and enhance natural areas.
PL-2 Implement a system of land conservation acquisition considerations by examining
the following factors (listed in no priority order).
♦Willingness of current property owner to sell
♦Ecological value and importance
♦Appropriate recreation opportunities
♦Costs of acquisition
♦Long-term stewardship costs
♦ Expected threat to the integrity of the natural resource values of a property
(development, agricultural conversion, etc.)
♦Geographic proximity to Fort Collins
PL-3 Coordinate natural areas and other open land programs within the City and region
to maximize public benefit and explore ways of integrating natural areas protection into
ongoing City programs.
4
PL-4 Manage, maintain, and enhance public natural areas to ensure the ongoing
conservation of plants and animals that are in need of protection and their associated
ecosystems; control the invasion and spread of undesirable nonnative plants and animals;
improve aesthetics; and provide opportunities for public use.
PL-5 Manage conflicts between people and natural areas through site design, public
information and education, habitat manipulation, and plant and animal population
management techniques.
PL-6 Involve citizens in planning the management of public natural areas.
Private Land Management
PR-1 Use the City's regulatory powers to (1) direct growth away from sensitive natural
features, (2) encourage the integration of natural areas into the developed landscape, and
(3) preserve and protect the resources and values of natural areas.
PR-2 Encourage and assist efforts by private landowners and organizations to integrate
natural areas into new development and to protect, restore, or enhance privately-owned
natural areas.
Recreation,Interpretation,and Education
. RE-1 Provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, formal and informal education, and
interpretive programs on local natural features to the community.
Cooperation With Others
CO-1 Seek the cooperation and assistance of citizens, businesses, community groups,
conservation organizations, and governmental agencies in the development and
implementation of programs to protect and preserve local natural areas.
Public Information
PI-1 Collect, maintain, and distribute up-to-date information on the location, values,
status, and management needs of local and regional natural areas.
Program Funding
PF-1 Seek alternative funding sources to implement natural area policies and programs,
including private, State, and Federal grants, and donations of money, property, and in-
kind services.
Program Evaluation
PE-1 Report periodically on the status of natural areas in the community.
5
EXHIBIT"B"
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A Conservation Focus Areas
MEMORANDUM
DT: March 24, 2003
TO: Mayor and City Councilmembers
FR: Paul Van Valkenburg, President of the Parks and Recreation Board
RE: Board Recommendations Regarding Natural Areas Policy Plan Update
The Parks and Recreation Board, at its meeting on February 26, 2003, heard a presentation on
the Natural Areas Policy Plan update. City Council is discussing this update at the March 25"'
Study Session. Part of the update involves expanding the area where land acquisitions are
authorized pursuant to the draft Land Conservation Focus Areas Plan. The Parks and Recreation
Board is concerned about this possible expansion before the planned public outreach process is
completed. The Board voted unanimously (7-0) to recommend that City Council not take any
action on the Land Conservation Focus Areas Plan until the public outreach process has been
completed and the results of the outreach presented to Council. The minutes from the Board's
February 26, 2003 meeting is attached.
! The Parks and Recreation Board also discussed the provision in the Open Space Yes! ballot
language concerning Council's designation of an existing or new advisory board to advise and
make recommendations to Council regarding the expenditure of moneys for the purposes set
forth in the ballot. The Parks and Recreation Board voted unanimously (7-0) to recommend to
Council that a new Board be formed with Board members representing various interests,
including recreation representation.
The Parks and Recreation Board appreciates the opportunity to provide these recommendation to
the City Council.
i
Parks and Recreation Board Minutes
February 26,2003
Page 5
1
Councilman Bill Bertschy said that Council has asked staff to come back with more information.
Councilman Eric Hamrick said that before Council reviews it again, we need a recommendation
from this Board. Joel asked that both the Council members and the Board review their previous
motion after they saw his presentation this evening. He said in order to relocate the trail would
cost $140,000. To fight this legally, is it really worth it? Del is concerned that we run into
concerns from the other neighbors. Bill doesn't recommend the Board make a motion tonight.
He thinks we should get legal input. The big issue is the legal portion.
Ron Mills, City's Right of Way Agent, asked if the homeowners are willing to separate the trail
right-of-way needs near the underpass and north of the contested trail section. This would allow
some work to proceed that is tied directly to the Lemay Avenue widening road work. Joel
answered they do not want to do this. He said it is in the best interest to resolve this prior to the
road construction. Dean asked about the trail crossing on the west side of Lemay and cross at
Trilby past the neighborhood. Craig will check on land ownership on the west side of Lemay.
Mary said we need to invite one of the City attorneys next month to our meeting. Craig will also
talk to Matt Baker, Street Oversizing Manager, regarding the easements on the west side of
Lemay.
Natural Areas Policy Plan Update
Mark Sears, Manager of Natural Areas, spoke to the Board about the update of the Natural Areas
Policy Plan. The three issues for discussion this evening are as follows:
• Natural Areas Policy Amendment
• Update Land Conservation Plan
• Assignment of Land Conservation Responsibilities to a New or Existing Board
Backeround•
Mark explained that in August the Natural Areas staff met with Council and they asked staff to
evaluate further land conservation and form a task force. Council approved $16 million toward
acquisition of community separators and other land conservation opportunities, i.e. separators
between Windsor,Timnath and Wellington.
The goals and objectives in the Policy Plan provide official direction to the City regarding
natural areas. The reason Council wants to amend the plan is because revenue from the new
open space tax will start in 2006 and this will allow the City to broaden the land conservation in
the region.
The master plan and guidelines are as follows:
• Establish acquisition consideration
• Contact willing sellers/current landowners
• Appropriate recreation opportunities
• Preserve ecological values
Parks and Recreation Board Minutes
February 26,2003
Page 6
• Cost of acquisition
• Long term stewardship costs
• Geographic proximity to Fort Collins
• Expected threat to the integrity of the natural resource value of property (development,
agricultural conversion, etc)
Jessica asked about the recreational opportunities within this plan. She said in the past where we
thought we might have been able to construct a trail through a natural area, we were told we
couldn't. When acquiring properties, what type of consideration goes into it for recreational
opportunities? Mark said that some land purchases are categorized natural resources sensitive.
Other properties would be a connection from one natural area to another and a trail could be built
between.
Land Conservation Plan: Develop and maintain a data inventory on local natural areas to aid the
City and the public in decisions about these areas and management of public owned lands. The
Natural Areas staff put together a task force for this purpose. Their plan emulates the County's
Open Lands Master Plan.
Focus Areas: All of our current land conservation includes Timnath and Windsor, and
Wellington separators. Dean asked how much of the UGA are they limited to acquiring? Mark
said the Focus Area I as indicated on the map are all within our jurisdiction.
iDel asked about the citizens' initiative. "Regional" was only mentioned once in the ballot
language. He said that if the voters knew the regional plan incorporated purchasing land in
outlying areas like Meadow Springs, they never would have voted for it. He thinks that is the
responsibility of the County and not the citizens of Fort Collins. Mark said these are
opportunities and staff will host open houses for them to review this and the citizens will be
presented with the following questions. Do they want to protect view shed along 287? Do they
want to have another Gateway Park or Horsetooth Mountain Park? Del questions using City of
Fort Collins tax dollars for purchases this far north. Jessica said that the citizens are probably
thinking of land management within the city or the UGA and not 35 miles north of Fort Collins.
Dean asked isn't it more important to get the citizens input prior to going to Council? Marty
Heffernan asked what was the purpose of taking this to Council prior to citizen input? Mark said
they will take this to Council to get their feedback on priorities. Del asked if the Natural
Resources Board and their supporters will be supportive of any recreational amenities in this
plan? Mary Carlson said she likes the plan because there is a broad area of 35 miles that can be
used for open space. She doesn't have a problem with this going to Council first as long as they
recommend it should be viewed by the citizens.
Conservation Focus Areas: With recreation as part of this plan, Ann Hunt said that she would
like an outreach to be publicize in the newspaper. She wants to make sure as many people as
possible should be aware of this plan. Jessica suggested putting this map in the newspaper.
• Mark said the high priorities were brought before Council last summer.
Parks and Recreation Board Minutes
February 26,2003
Page 7
Del Price made a motion to recommend that City Council should not take any action on the Land
Conservation Focus Areas Plan until the public outreach has been conducted and the results of
the outreach had been presented to Council. The motion was seconded by Mary Carlson, and the
Board voted unanimously (7-0) in support of Del's motion.
Policy Plan: The Board felt the term "Open Space" should be defined and the definition should
be broader than Natural Areas. The document needs to be rewritten to bring it up to date with
the Open Space Yes! ballot language. Mark agrees and said that is their intention. This is just an
amendment of the current policy and then we will update or rewrite the new policy. Mark said
the urgency is that we have opportunities coming forth that are outside the geographic area
encompassed in the current policy. Del said until we define regional, we shouldn't act on any of
this. Jessica agrees with Del that the region needs to be defined. Del recommended that
Council not fund anything past focus area 1 until the Natural Resources staff has done a citizen
outreach.
Assienment of Land Conservation Responsibilities to A New or Existing Board: In the Open
Space Yes! ballot language it states that the Council create a new Board or assign the
responsibilities to an existing Board. Dean would like to see a broader representation including
recreational interests. On a motion by Del Price, seconded by Ann Hunt, the Board voted
unanimously (7-0) to recommend that a new Board be assigned with Board members
representing various interests, including recreation representation.
Proiect Update
Homestead Neighborhood Park. The restroom/shelter at the park was installed in February. The
restroom and shelter have a unique style blending the structure with a sweeping roofline. The
design of the park's landscape berms and structures "play-off' the wind swept environment of
the prairie that greeted early settlers in the Fort Collins area. The park will be open to the public
in early summer. Funding for the development of the park is from the Neighborhood Parkland
Fund.
Election of Officers
Annually in February the Board elects its officers. Paul Van Valkenburg was nominated to serve
a second term as President on a motion by Del Price, seconded by Jessica MacMillan, the Board
voted unanimously (7-0) to re-elect Paul Van Valkenburg as President. By secret ballot, Jessica
MacMillan was elected Vice President.
Twice The Ice,EPIC Advertisina,And Additional Fundine For The Second Sheet Of Ice
Jean Helburg, Recreation Manager, said that staff will present a three-part agenda item to City
Council on March 18, 2003. The first part is to revise the policy for indoor advertising at EPIC
to include the second sheet of ice, being constructed through the Building Community Choices
capital program. The second part is an Ordinance re-authorizing a lease agreement between the
City and Twice the Ice, allowing TTI to sell advertising in both ice arenas through December 31,
2003. The third part is an Ordinance appropriating revenue raised by Twice the Ice into the