HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOUNCIL - AGENDA ITEM - 04/01/2014 - CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE MAgenda Item 1
Item # 1 Page 1
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY April 1, 2014
City Council
STAFF
Wanda Nelson, City Clerk
SUBJECT
Consideration and Approval of the Minutes of the March 4, 2014 Regular Council Meeting.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this item is to approve the minutes from the March 4, 2014 Regular Council meeting.
ATTACHMENTS
1. March 4, 2014 minutes (PDF)
March 4, 2014
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS, COLORADO
Council-Manager Form of Government
Regular Meeting - 6:00 p.m.
A regular meeting of the Council of the City of Fort Collins was held on Tuesday, March 4,
2014, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the City of Fort Collins City Hall. Roll call was
answered by the following Councilmembers: Campana, Cunniff, Horak, Overbeck, Poppaw,
Troxell and Weitkunat.
Staff Members Present: Atteberry, Nelson, Roy.
Agenda Review
City Manager Atteberry stated the Urban Renewal Authority meeting will be held after Citizen
Participation Follow-Up. He noted a revised letter and Resolution for Item No. 13, Resolution
2014-021 Directing the Mayor to Submit a Letter to Colorado's United States Senators and to
Congressmen Jared Polis and Cory Gardner, Seeking Support for Funding for I-25 Phase I
Improvements, were included in Council’s read-before packet.
Councilmember Cunniff withdrew Item Nos. 1 and 13, Consideration and Approval of the
Minutes from the January 28, 2014 Adjourned Council Meeting and the February 4 and 18,
2014 Regular Council Meetings and Resolution 2014-021 Directing the Mayor to Submit a
Letter to Colorado's United States Senators and to Congressmen Jared Polis and Cory Gardner,
Seeking Support for Funding for I-25 Phase I Improvements from the Consent Calendar.
Citizen Participation
Monte Barry, Fort Collins resident, discussed bicycle and pedestrian accidents and suggested the
use of public service announcements to address the issue.
Jack Daniels, 172 North College, thanked Council for helping to make Fort Collins a wonderful
place to live and commended the honesty, integrity, and intelligence of the City organization.
David Hamm, Fort Collins resident, discussed future growth of the city and suggested additional
infrastructure will be needed to meet the needs of the increased population. He opposed the
construction of a stadium within city limits.
Citizen Participation Follow-up
Councilmember Overbeck stated he has had conversations with staff regarding pedestrian and
citizen safety.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak stated staff has reviewed the city’s accident statistics and are examining
proactive possibilities for change.
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Adjourn to Urban Renewal Authority Meeting
Mayor Pro Tem Horak made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Overbeck, to adjourn until
the conclusion of tonight’s Urban Renewal Authority meeting. Yeas: Campana, Horak,
Weitkunat, Cunniff, Overbeck, Poppaw and Troxell. Nays: none.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
(Meeting adjourned at 6:13 p.m. and reconvened at 7:15 p.m.)
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Consideration and Approval of the Minutes from the January 28, 2014 Adjourned Council
Meeting and the February 4 and 18, 2014 Regular Council Meetings.
The purpose of this item is to consider and approve minutes from the January 28, 2014
Adjourned Council Meeting and the February 4 and 18, 2014 Regular Council Meetings.
2. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 025, 2014, Appropriating Prior Year Reserves in the
Water Fund to Fund the Replacement of the College Avenue Waterline From Mulberry
Street to Buckeye Street.
This Ordinance, unanimously adopted on First Reading on February 18, 2014, appropriates
funds for the replacement of the College Avenue waterline from Mulberry to Buckeye
Streets, just south of Pitkin. Ordinance No. 134, 2013 appropriated funds for the design of
this project. Design and cost estimating have been completed. This Ordinance appropriates
$2.1 million from reserves for the construction of this project.
3. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 026, 2014, Amending Subsection 2-31(a)(2) of the City
Code, Pertaining to Executive Sessions Held for the Purpose of Meeting with Attorneys for
the City.
This Ordinance, unanimously adopted on First Reading on February 18, 2014, amends
subsection 2-31(a) of the City Code, which pertains to executive sessions held for the
purpose of meeting with attorneys for the City. The purpose of the amendment is to more
closely conform to the language in Article II, Section 11 of the City Charter.
4. First Reading of Ordinance No. 029, 2014, Appropriating Unanticipated Grant Revenue in
the Recreation Fund for the Vida Sana Program.
The purpose of this item is to appropriate sub-grant funds from the Poudre Valley Health
System Foundation and the Coalition for Activity and Nutrition to Defeat Obesity
(CANDO) for the Vida Sana program to eliminate racial and ethnic disparities among
Latino/Hispanic community members. Specific interventions include increasing access to
facilities providing physical activity; providing social support to increase physical activity;
and implementing a communitywide campaign for increasing physical activity that will be
carried out by partner agencies.
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5. Items relating to FC Bikes Program.
A. First Reading of Ordinance No. 030, 2014, Appropriating Unanticipated Grant Revenue
in the Transportation Services Fund for the 2014 Fort Collins Bikes Program.
B. First Reading of Ordinance No. 031, 2014, Appropriating Unanticipated Grant Revenue
From Kaiser Permanente in the Transportation Services Fund for the 2014 Fort Collins
Bikes Program.
The purpose of this item is to request appropriation of unbudgeted grant funds received for
the FC Bikes Program: (1) a Congestion Mitigation & Air Quality (CMAQ) grant (2014-
2016) and (2) a Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of Colorado (KP) grant (2014). The City of
Fort Collins’ FC Bikes Program received a $704,128 federal grant (CMAQ) through the
Colorado Department of Transportation and the North Front Range Metropolitan Planning
Organization. This is in addition to the City’s local match of $146,372, as appropriated in
2013 by City Council. In addition, the FC Bikes Program received a $94,100 private grant
from Kaiser Permanente (KP) through a Walk & Wheel - Local Government grant. A local
match is not required for the KP grant. Funding from both grants will support FC Bikes
Program initiatives, allowing for the refinement and expansion of existing services,
including enhancements to bicycle safety education programs, expansion of encouragement
campaigns, and new bicycle promotion initiatives, while also supporting the development
and implementation of the 2014 Fort Collins Bicycle Master Plan.
6. First Reading of Ordinance No. 032, 2014, Appropriating Unanticipated Grant Revenue in
the Wastewater Fund and Authorizing the Transfer of Existing Appropriations from the
Drake Water Reclamation Facility Improvements Capital Project for the Drake Water
Reclamation Facility's Nutrient Grant Project for South Process Train Improvements.
The purpose of this item is to appropriate grant funding in the amount of $1,080,000 in the
Wastewater Fund. The grant funds will be used for the planning, design, and construction of
a portion of the Nutrient Removal Improvements required for the Drake Water Reclamation
Facilities’ South Process Train.
7. First Reading of Ordinance No. 033, 2014, Establishing Rental Rates and Delivery Charges
for the City's Raw Water for the 2014 Irrigation Season.
The purpose of this item is to set rates for the rental and delivery of the City's raw water
supplies. The Water Utility uses these rates to assess charges for agricultural use, for various
contractual raw water obligations and for raw water deliveries to other City departments.
The proposed rate for each type of water is based on several factors including market
conditions and assessments charged by irrigation companies.
8. First Reading of Ordinance No. 034, 2014, Amending Sections 3.8.31 and 5.1.2 of the Land
Use Code Pertaining to Hoop Houses.
The purpose of this item is to amend the Land Use Code to exempt hoop houses from the
Building Code requirements and add hoop houses to the list of accessory structures allowed
in the Code, and require urban agriculture licensees to locate hoop houses on their site plans.
In July 2013, Council also directed staff to consider standards for the raising of farm
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animals. Based on public outreach and staff research, staff found that the concerns raised
regarding farm animals could be addressed with existing regulations and were limited to two
neighborhoods within the City. In addition, numerous citizens expressed strong concerns
about regulating their food production ability within the zone districts that currently allow
farm animals. Thus, staff is not proposing amendments to the City’s regulations regarding
farm animals. Instead of developing regulations that could affect all residents within these
districts (approximately 1,700 homes), staff is working with the concerned neighborhoods
directly to resolve specific concerns.
9. Hearing and First Reading of Ordinance No. 035, 2014 Amending Chapter 9 of the City
Code and Adopting by Reference the 2012 International Fire Code, with Amendments.
The purpose of this item is to update the International Fire Code (IFC). Poudre Fire
Authority is responsible for the enforcement and administration of the International Fire
Code within the City of Fort Collins. Every three years, the IFC is updated by the
International Code Council (ICC) with the most recent update published in 2012. Poudre
Fire Authority routinely reviews new codes, proposes local amendments and then seeks
adoption of the Code changes by City Council. The proposed amendments, developed in
conjunction with the local Fire Code Review Committee, include several changes to the
local Code. Changes include regulations related to the placement of solar panels on
residential roofs, additional clarification and requirements for emergency responder radio
coverage in large buildings, minimal maintenance provisions for roof top gardens and
provisions to protect firefighters from roof top hazards such as cables and wires.
10. First Reading Ordinance No. 036, 2014 Authorizing the Conveyance of Parcels of Real
Property on North College Avenue to the Colorado Department of Transportation.
The purpose of this Ordinance is to obtain authorization from City Council to convey
parcels acquired on North College Avenue for road improvements to the Colorado
Department of Transportation. The City constructed the North College Avenue
Improvements Project - Vine to Conifer in 2012. As required for all projects involving a
Colorado Department of Transportation (“CDOT”) facility, and per the intergovernmental
agreement between the City and CDOT, any acquired property for road right of way
purposes is required to be subsequently conveyed to CDOT. This Ordinance will authorize
City staff to convey these acquired parcels to CDOT.
11. Items Relating to the Implementation of Phase Four of the Southwest Enclave Annexation.
A. Resolution 2014-018 Amending the City’s Structure Plan.
B. Hearing and First Reading of Ordinance No. 037, 2014 Amending The Zoning Map Of
The City Of Fort Collins And Classifying For Zoning Purposes the Property Included In
Phase Four Of The Southwest Enclave Annexation To The City Of Fort Collins,
Colorado
The purpose of this item is to implement Phase Four of the Southwest Enclave Annexation,
the last phase within this enclave and consisting of approximately 400acres. This is
a request to amend the City Structure Plan map, apply appropriate zoning districts, and
place Phase Four within the Residential Sign District. The City Structure Plan map will
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be amended to finalize the Growth Management Area boundary for the Wildflower
expansion area. The requested zone districts for Phase F o u r are Urban Estate (U-E),
Rural Lands (R-U-L), and Public Open Lands (P-O-L).
12. Resolution 2014-019 Ratifying the Appointment of Amanda Manges Quijano to the Poudre
River Library District Board of Trustees.
The purpose of this item is to appoint Amanda Manges Quijano to the Poudre River Library
District Board of Directors to fill a vacancy that currently exists due to a term expiration for
Robin Gard.
13. Resolution 2014-021 Directing the Mayor to Submit a Letter to Colorado's United States
Senators and to Congressmen Jared Polis and Cory Gardner, Seeking Support for Funding
for I-25 Phase I Improvements.
The purpose of this item is for City Council to consider approval of a letter to be submitted
to the City's U.S. Congressional Delegation and to U.S. Representative Cory Gardner,
seeking their support to fund Interstate 25 improvements in the 2014 reauthorization of the
federal transportation bill.
***END CONSENT***
Mayor Pro Tem Horak made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Overbeck, to adopt and
approve all items not withdrawn from the Consent Calendar. Yeas: Horak, Weitkunat, Cunniff,
Overbeck, Poppaw, Troxell and Campana. Nays: none.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Consent Calendar Follow-up
Councilmember Troxell discussed Item No. 11, Items Relating to the Implementation of Phase
Four of the Southwest Enclave Annexation, noting this item represents the final phase of the
annexation.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak commended the detail and layout of Item No. 8, First Reading of
Ordinance No. 034, 2014, Amending Sections 3.8.31 and 5.1.2 of the Land Use Code Pertaining
to Hoop Houses.
Staff Reports
City Attorney Roy stated John Duval has been hired by the City Attorney’s Office. Roy
commended Mr. Duval’s work and stated the City Attorney’s Office is proud to have him
rejoining the City.
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Councilmember Reports
Mayor Weitkunat reported on the upcoming Colorado Municipal League Board of Directors
meeting and stated Council will be attending the National League of Cities meeting in
Washington D.C. next week.
Councilmember Campana reported the City has received medals in four of the five categories for
efforts already completed relating to the national “Let’s Move” campaign.
Councilmember Cunniff reported on the introductory campus stadium meeting.
Consideration and Approval of the Minutes from the January 28, 2014
Adjourned Council Meeting and the February 4 and 18, 2014
Regular Council Meetings, February 18 Minutes to be Resubmitted
Councilmember Cunniff stated the February 18 minutes did not adequately reflect the discussion
City Attorney Roy had with Mayor Pro Tem Horak regarding the clarification of his motion.
City Clerk Nelson suggested Council vote on the remaining two sets of minutes and staff will
amend the February 18 minutes and bring them back for Council’s consideration at the next
meeting.
Councilmember Cunniff made a motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Horak, to approve the
January 28 and February 4, 2014 minutes. Yeas: Weitkunat, Cunniff, Overbeck, Poppaw,
Troxell, Campana and Horak. Nays: none.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Resolution 2014-021
Directing the Mayor to Submit a Letter to Colorado's United States Senators
and to Congressmen Jared Polis and Cory Gardner, Seeking Support
for Funding for I-25 Phase I Improvements, Adopted
The following is the staff memorandum for this item.
“EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this item is for City Council to consider approval of a letter to be submitted to the
City's U.S. Congressional Delegation and to U.S. Representative Cory Gardner, seeking their
support to fund Interstate 25 improvements in the 2014 reauthorization of the federal
transportation bill.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION
Interstate 25 (I-25) is the primary transportation corridor for people and goods to and from
Northern Colorado. The traffic volume along the highway has steadily increased in the last decade
to the point that road conditions are becoming a problem. Ensuring that the highway is safe, in
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good repair, and is sized appropriately to handle traffic needs is important to Northern Colorado's
economic health.
Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has proposed converting a free lane into a toll
lane on I-25 between Colorado 7 (the Brighton exit) to Colorado 66 (Lyons, Longmont and
Platteville exit) in order to accumulate the revenue needed to make improvements to the highway by
2075.
As an alternative, to expand the highway more quickly and efficiency, the North I-25 Coalition - a
group of local officials representing 14 communities from Thornton to Fort Collins - is advocating
that funding for north I-25 be included in the reauthorization of the federal transportation bill. The
transportation bill will be discussed by Congress this fall.
Information provided by the North I-25 coalition derived from CDOT, Department of Local Affairs,
Colorado State Demographer, and the U.S. Census data indicates, based on current road
conditions and traffic volumes, that the north I-25 corridor has an anticipated 10-year lifespan.
If approved, the letter will go to the City's federal representatives - United States Senators Mark
Udall and Michael Bennet, and Congressman Jared Polis. The same letter would also go to
Congressman Cory Gardner who, until 2012, represented Fort Collins. Congressman Gardner is a
leader in the United States House, understands the regional importance of this issue and is familiar
with regional needs.
FINANCIAL IMPACTS
Funding north Interstate 25 improvements in the federal transportation reauthorization will
ensure the region's economic health by maintaining a safe road surface and address growing
congestion along the north I-25 corridor. Acting sooner could result in savings to taxpayers,
both in minimizing congestion-related delays and in minimizing anticipated construction costs
(project costs are anticipated to be $1.2 billion if completed in the CDOT proposed timeline of
2075).
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Delays along the north I-25 corridor can cause increased levels of air pollution.”
Councilmember Cunniff stated the item’s materials were not complete on-line as of Thursday
and requested information regarding the timeline and current status of the materials and
Resolution.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak read the complete Resolution into the record and discussed the need for
federal funding and support of the I-25 communities.
Mike Pruznick, Fort Collins resident, stated the thinking behind this issue does not support
sustainability.
Councilmember Campana commended Mayor Pro Tem Horak’s work on the item.
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Mayor Pro Tem Horak made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Troxell, to adopt
Resolution 2014-021.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak discussed the need for federal funding for I-25.
Councilmember Cunniff supported the need for bridge reconstruction and highway maintenance
but questioned the need for additional traffic lanes as history has shown they fill up shortly after
being completed.
Councilmember Cunniff made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Poppaw, to delay
consideration of the item until the next regular meeting due to the substantive changes in the
Resolution.
Mayor Weitkunat noted time is of the essence regarding the item and stated this letter would at
least put the Northern Colorado area in the discussion to receive federal funding.
Councilmember Troxell opposed postponing the item and commended Mayor Pro Tem Horak’s
work on the item and noted this is a regional effort.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak noted the discussed third lane would be a managed lane, which could
either be a toll or HOV lane. He also noted the environmental impact statement for the area has
already been approved by Council.
The vote on the motion to postpone the item was as follows: Yeas: Cunniff, Overbeck and
Poppaw. Nays: Troxell, Campana, Horak and Weitkunat.
THE MOTION FAILED.
The vote on the motion to approve Resolution 2014-021 was as follows: Yeas: Troxell,
Campana, Horak and Weitkunat. Nays: Cunniff, Overbeck and Poppaw.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Ordinance No. 024, 2014,
Appropriating Prior Year Reserves in the Keep Fort Collins
Great Fund to Fund Further Development of the West Central
Neighborhoods Plan, Adopted on Second Reading
The following is the staff memorandum for this item.
“EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This Ordinance, unanimously adopted on First Reading on February 18, 2014, appropriates
$170,000 of KFCG Other Transportation Reserve funds for consulting services associated with
the Transportation Element of the West Central Neighborhoods Plan. An update of the plan is
scheduled for 2014. The requested funding enhances the overall planning effort by including an
analysis of the neighborhood transportation network, consideration of growth on and around the
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Colorado State University campus, recommendations and strategies, and detailed corridor
vision and design for Prospect Road between College Avenue and Shields Street.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION
At the First Reading of Ordinance No. 024, 2014, City Council discussed the relationship of the
West Central Neighborhoods Plan to other efforts including mitigation strategies for a potential
on-campus stadium at CSU. Additional information has been included for the second reading in
order to clarify these relationships.
The West Central Neighborhoods Plan is representative of the 16 Area Plans within the City of
Fort Collins. These plans allow the application of City Plan at a scale appropriate to
neighborhood areas and districts of the City. Area plans typically include elements expanding
on land use, urban design, transportation, and other key topics. They take into consideration the
expected growth and development within the plan area, but they do not typically evaluate the
impact of specific development projects. It should be noted that the current plan is titled “West
Central Neighborhoods Plan,” while the new document under development will be renamed
“West Central Area Plan.” New attachments will reflect this change.
The Planning, Development, and Transportation (PDT) Service Area is also working with City
Management to develop a process for evaluating and mitigating the impacts of an on-campus
stadium. Additional information related to this project is being provided to City Council
separately from this AIS.
This appropriation ordinance is critical to the success of the larger West Central Area Plan
effort because it provides funding to support a robust analysis of the transportation network,
modeling and forecasting of the future condition of the system, and a more detailed preliminary
design for a highly constrained segment of Prospect Road. Without this supplementary funding,
the new plan will lack the depth of analysis to provide these detailed transportation
recommendations for the Plan Area as a whole, or design options for Prospect Road.
Per City Council’s request at First Reading, the following items have been included for
consideration:
Attachment 1: Agenda Item Summary from the first reading.
Attachment 2: West Central Area Plan Neighborhoods Map. This map shows the plan area
boundaries and identifies the names of the constituent neighborhoods.
Attachment 3: Fort Collins Area Plan Map. This attachment identifies all 16 of the currently
adopted Area Plans within the City.
Attachment 4: Original West Central Neighborhoods Plan Offer (without transportation
enhancements proposed by this appropriation). This document reflects the general scope of the
project as approved by City Council during the last Budgeting for Outcomes process.
Attachment 5: West Central Area Plan Final Project Scope (including transportation
enhancements proposed by this appropriation). This document reflects the final project scope if
this appropriation ordinance is adopted.
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Attachment 6: West Central Area Plan Project Schedule. This is the anticipated timeline for the
completion of tasks outlined in the final scope
Attachment 7: Development Review Flow Chart. This provides a brief overview of the steps
that a private developer follows to design and construct public infrastructure necessary to
address development impacts.
The Ordinance was amended on First Reading to reflect the correct focus area on Prospect
Road.”
Cameron Gloss, Planning Manager, discussed the boundary of the West Central area and stated
this item would allow for a more elaborate transportation analysis of the area.
Paul Sizemore, FC Moves Program Manager, stated this item would appropriate $170,000 of
KFCG transportation reserves to expand on the West Central Neighborhoods Plan transportation
element. This research will provide a new baseline of data which can then feed into other
planning efforts, including stadium impact planning and other area plans. Sizemore went on to
detail documents and information requested by Council at First Reading.
Gloss discussed the history and funding of area plans throughout the city and stated the Plan
name has been changed to the West Central Area Plan to accurately reflect the land uses in the
area.
Councilmember Cunniff commended staff for the follow-up work and asked about proposed
outreach efforts. Gloss replied there is an extensive public involvement plan that begins in three
weeks and will be ongoing for approximately nine months.
Councilmember Overbeck asked if notices would be included in utility bills. Gloss replied a
broad range of techniques will be used, including utility bill notices.
Councilmember Campana asked about funding for the City’s area plans. Gloss replied they have
been approved through past budget cycles and funded by the City.
Councilmember Troxell made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Campana, to adopt
Ordinance No. 024, 2014, on Second Reading.
Councilmember Troxell commended the additional work by staff.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak asked if a public engagement plan would be presented to Council. Gloss
replied staff has completed a draft public involvement plan which will be distributed to Council
shortly.
The vote on the motion was as follows: Yeas: Poppaw, Troxell, Campana, Horak, Weitkunat,
Cunniff and Overbeck. Nays: none.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
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Ordinance No. 027, 2014,
Approving Revisions to the Fort Collins Utilities' Electric
Construction Policies, Practices, and Procedures, Adopted on Second Reading
The following is the staff memorandum for this item.
“EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Ordinance No. 027, 2014, adopted on First Reading on February 18, 2014 by a vote of 6-0
(Campana recused) adopts the revised Electric Construction Policies, Practices, and Procedures
(ECPPP). The ECPPP provides definition to developers and contractors related to the
construction of electrical facilities.”
Councilmember Campana withdrew from the discussion of this item due to a conflict of interest.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Cunniff, to adopt
Ordinance No. 027, 2014, on Second Reading. Yeas: Troxell, Horak, Weitkunat, Cunniff,
Overbeck and Poppaw. Nays: none.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Ordinance No. 028, 2014,
Amending Chapter 26 of the City Code to Clarify the Application
of Wastewater Rates to Certain Residential Services, Adopted on Second Reading
The following is the staff memorandum for this item.
“EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This Ordinance, adopted on First Reading on February 18, 2014 by a vote of 6-0 (Campana
recused), revises the City Code concerning the classification of wastewater users and
revises rates for wastewater service charges during the period of construction.”
Councilmember Campana withdrew from the discussion of this item due to a conflict of interest.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Poppaw, to adopt
Ordinance No. 028, 2014, on Second Reading. Yeas: Troxell, Horak, Weitkunat, Cunniff,
Overbeck and Poppaw. Nays: none.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
(Secretary’s note: The Council took a brief recess at this point in the meeting.)
Items Relating to Recreational Marijuana, Adopted on First Reading
The following is the staff memorandum for this item.
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“EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
A. First Reading of Ordinance No. 038, 2014, Establishing Regulations for the Consumption
and Possession of Marijuana Within the City of Fort Collins and Prohibiting the Transfer or
Display of Marijuana on City-Owned Property.
B. First Reading of Ordinance No. 039, 2014, Establishing Regulations for the Cultivation of
Marijuana.
C. Possible Action Items Related to the Licensing of Retail Marijuana Establishments:
OPTION A:
First Reading of Ordinance No. 040, 2014, Extending the Temporary Ban on Marijuana
Establishments within the City of Fort Collins.
OR
OPTION B:
First Reading of Ordinance No. 041, 2014, Adding a New Article XVII to Chapter 15 of
the City Code to Govern the Licensing, Number, Location and Operation of Retail
Marijuana Establishments.
AND
First Reading of Ordinance No. 042, 2014, Making Amendments to the City of Fort
Collins Land Use Code in Order to Accommodate Retail Marijuana Establishments in the
City.
The purpose of this item is to regulate the personal use and growing of marijuana as allowed
under Amendment 64 and to either extend the ban on retail marijuana establishments or to adopt
regulations for such businesses. At the February 11, 2014 Work Session, Council requested the
following options be brought forward:
Proceed with the local ordinances addressing the personal use and growing of recreational
marijuana.
Extend the temporary ban for 2 years; or
Enact regulations governing retail marijuana establishments with options to either allow or
prohibit edibles with the exception of tinctures and oils.
A temporary ban on retail marijuana establishments went into effect in September 2013 and is
scheduled to expire on March 31, 2014. If the ordinance extending the temporary ban is adopted
on Second Reading, the ban will be extended until March 31, 2016. If the ordinance allowing
retail establishments is adopted on Second Reading, it would take effect prior to the expiration of
the existing temporary ban.
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STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the adoption of Ordinance Nos. 038, 2014 and 039, 2014 addressing the
personal use, consumption and growing of recreational marijuana.
Based on the potential impacts on youth health and well-being, the cash nature of such
businesses, and the impact that such businesses may have on the City’s reputation, staff is
recommending the extension of the temporary ban for 2 years.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION
Amendment 64
With voter approval of Amendment 64 in November 2012, communities throughout Colorado
have been adopting local regulations to either ban or allow retail marijuana establishments.
Fort Collins is in a unique position because Initiative 301 which reinstated medical marijuana
businesses, was approved at the same time. Since November 2012, staff has been working
diligently to re-license previous medical marijuana centers and to provide Council with local
options to address retail marijuana in our community.
Amendment 64 allows the following:
Adults 21 years-of-age or older may legally possess, use, display, purchase, or transport one
ounce or less of marijuana without a doctor’s recommendation.
Adults 21 years-of-age or older may possess, grow, process, or transport up to six marijuana
plants, provided, however, that the cultivation of marijuana occurs in a locked and enclosed
space.
Local governments may opt out of allowing retail marijuana establishments or they may opt
in and enact local regulations.
Currently the City has:
11 licensed medical marijuana centers with 2 applications pending approval
11 licensed cultivation centers with 3 applications pending approval
2 licensed Manufacturing Infused Product facilities.
Proposed Ordinances
Ordinance No. 038, 2014 addresses personal consumption and possession and prohibitions on
the display and transfer of marijuana.
Amendment 64 allows adults 21 and over to possess up to one ounce of marijuana. It prohibits
“open and public” use of marijuana. This ordinance provides local language to better define
open and public consumption, to help with enforcement, and to allow violations to be written
into our local municipal court.
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Amendment 64 (the constitutional provision governing recreational marijuana) prohibits the
open and public consumption of recreational marijuana, whereas Amendment 20 (the
constitutional provision governing medical marijuana) prohibits the consumption of medical
marijuana that is in plain view of, or in a place open to the general public. In order to make
these provisions consistent, the proposed ordinance governing recreational marijuana defines
“openly” as “perceptible from a place that is open to the general public” and “publicly” as
“occurring on any publicly owned property, or any non-residential property that is open to the
general public,” and the proposed ordinance governing medical marijuana reflects the
Amendment 20 language “in plain view of or in a place open to the public.”
Adults 21 years-of-age and older are allowed to possess up to one ounce of recreational
marijuana and medical marijuana patients are allowed to possess up to two ounces of medical
marijuana.
The ordinance also prohibits displaying or transferring marijuana on City owned property which
includes parks, trails, natural areas, streets and sidewalks.
Ordinance No. 039, 2014 addresses the residential growing of recreational marijuana for
personal use.
Amendment 64 allows adults to grow six plants “provided that the growing takes place in an
enclosed, locked space, is not conducted openly or publicly, and is not made available for sale.”
However, the state law does not define these terms. The proposed ordinance defines what
constitutes an “enclosed, locked space” and “open and publicly.”
Fort Collins currently allows medical marijuana patients and caregivers to grow up to 12 plants
in single-family detached residences. Growing is prohibited in multi-family residences for
health and safety reasons.
Highlights of this ordinance include:
No cultivation in two-family, multifamily, or single-family attached dwellings.
Cultivation may not occur in the open or be perceptible from the outside of a property.
The use of compressed, flammable gases would be prohibited, as would all high-intensity
lighting.
The 12 plant limit for medical marijuana would remain in place, and would apply to
recreational marijuana regardless of the number of inhabitants.
With regard to the licensing of retail marijuana establishments, the choices available to the
Council are to:
- Do nothing, in which case the effect of that “default” to the state would have to be
further analyzed;
- Refer to the voters the question of whether to allow such establishments in the City;
- Extend the temporary ban for the purpose of further study;
- Adopt regulations under which the establishments would be licensed and regulated.
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Staff is providing Council with ordinances that would either extend the ban for two more years
or amend the City Code to allow for licensing and regulation.
Option A: Ordinance No. 040, 2014, extends the existing temporary ban for two years.
Based on Council discussion, a two-year extension would provide a reasonable amount of time
to observe impacts in those communities licensing and regulating retail marijuana
establishments. Based on those impacts and any additional studies that may occur in the two-
year timeframe, Council could then make a more informed decision regarding retail marijuana
businesses.
Council could also opt to extend the ban long enough to put an item on the November ballot
related to the allowance of retail marijuana stores.
Option B: Ordinance No. 041, 2014, allows and regulates retail marijuana establishments.
Specifically, the proposed ordinance allows all existing licensed medical marijuana centers in
good standing to apply for and receive a retail marijuana store license at its same location on
the condition it maintains both the retail and medical license.
Should an existing medical marijuana center in good standing wish to relocate and seek a retail
marijuana store license, the ordinance requires the location to meet the following:
1000 feet from:
CSU
Schools
Public Playgrounds
Medical or Retail marijuana stores
500 feet from:
Child care centers
Places of worship
Public parks, pools, recreation facilities
Halfway houses or rehab centers
Residential Zoning
The proposed ordinance also contains an option for either allowing or banning the sale of edible
products in retail marijuana establishments and an option for requiring a licensed retail
marijuana store that is also operating a medical marijuana center to limit sales to those 21 and
over.
Edible marijuana products are allowed in medical marijuana centers. The City cannot change
the availability of these products to medical marijuana patients. Larimer County has banned the
sale of retail edible products. Both retail stores in the County will be maintaining their medical
marijuana business licenses.
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The state addresses the protection of persons under age 21 from retail edible products in the
rules and regulations as follows:
Packaging may not be designed to appeal to children. A retail marijuana establishment shall
place no stickers or labeling on a container holding retail marijuana, retail marijuana
concentrates, or retail marijuana product in a manner that specifically targets individuals
under the age of 21, including but not limited to, cartoon characters or similar images.
A retail marijuana establishment must ensure that each retail marijuana product is placed
within a container prior to sale to a consumer. If the container is not child-resistant, the
retail marijuana store must place the container within an “exit package” that is child-
resistant. An exit package is “a sealed container or package provided at the retail point of
sale, in which any retail marijuana or retail marijuana product already within a container
are placed.”
Required warning statements include “This product is intended for use by adults 21 years
and older. Keep out of the reach of children.”
Should Council opt to allow the sale of retail edibles, the above would apply, as would our local
labeling requirement which states that all retail marijuana stores shall affix labels to all
containers on the licensed premises that hold retail marijuana or retail marijuana products and
shall clearly display potency profiles and contaminant results from licensed retail marijuana
testing facilities. This is more restrictive then the state law in that we are requiring all retail
marijuana and retail marijuana products to be tested.
The state is also imposing the following advertising restrictions to protect persons under the age
of 21:
Television / Radio / Print / Internet / Event Sponsorship restrictions include not utilizing
these types of advertising unless there is reliable evidence that no more than 30 percent of
the audience is reasonably expected to be under the age of 21.
Retail marijuana establishments shall not include in any form of advertising or signage any
content that specifically targets individuals under the age of 21, including but not limited to
cartoon characters or similar images.
Retail marijuana establishments shall not engage in advertising via marketing directed
towards location-based devices, including, but not limited to cellular phones, unless the
marketing is a mobile device application installed on the device by the owner of the device
who is 21 years of age or older and includes a permanent and easy opt-out feature.
If Council chooses to allow retails marijuana establishments, then the following ordinance
making changes to the Land Use Code would also need to be adopted.
Ordinance No. 042, 2014 makes amendments to the Land Use Code to define and regulate retail
marijuana establishments.
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The amendments identify the appropriate zones for retail marijuana establishments (which are
proposed to be the same zones where the equivalent medical marijuana uses are currently
permitted), add definitions, and prohibit such businesses from the “addition of permitted use”
process.
FINANCIAL IMPACTS
The allowance of retail marijuana establishments would bring additional sales tax as well as a
percentage of state share back money to the City. These amounts are difficult to determine at
this point.
The City would also see an increase in cost for enforcement and implementation of a retail
marijuana system.
BOARD / COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
The Planning and Zoning Board approved a recommendation to make the following Land Use
Code amendments:
Adding definitions for Retail Marijuana Store, Retail Marijuana Cultivation Facility, and
Retail marijuana Product Manufacturing Facility.
Adding the above uses to the same zones in which like medical marijuana uses are allowed.
Prohibiting retail marijuana facilities from the “Addition of Permitted Use” process.
PUBLIC OUTREACH
Outreach was conducted at a Community Forum held in October 2013. Feedback was also
solicited and received on line through IdeaLab.”
City Attorney Roy provided an overview of the proposed Ordinances, noting the two basic
options for local governments, per the state regulations, are to ban or regulate retail marijuana
operations. He reviewed the provisions of Amendment 64.
Ginny Sawyer, Policy and Project Manager, detailed the Ordinances and options therein. She
also discussed the Planning and Zoning Board recommendations on the items and showed slides
illustrating the locations of existing medical marijuana facilities and available land in the city.
City Manager Atteberry noted the staff recommendation is to extend the existing ban on retail
facilities for another two years.
Steve Ackerman, Fort Collins resident, supported a regulated retail model.
Hauten Swaton, Fort Collins resident, supported a regulated retail model and opposed banning
edibles.
Tom Anders, Fort Collins resident, stated he needs edible medical marijuana for pain control due
to a brain stem stroke. Additionally, he supported a regulated retail model.
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Ryan Wiens, Fort Collins resident, stated Council should enforce the will of the voters and
supported the ability for residents to grow their own marijuana and a regulated retail model.
Ray Burgner, Fort Collins resident, opposed tax revenue as being a reason to allow recreational
marijuana and stated the community’s youth should be prioritized.
Desmond Coronado, Fort Collins resident, supported the ability of law-abiding citizens, who are
of age, to purchase regulated retail marijuana.
Mary Kay Sommers, Fort Collins resident, supported the safest implementation possible and
stated the community’s youth should be prioritized.
Will Reynolds, Fort Collins resident, supported a regulated retail model.
Ken Correa, Fort Collins resident, stated he owns an edibles company, which is completely
regulated by the health department. He opposed banning edibles and opposed continuing a retail
ban.
Barbara Hain, Fort Collins resident, supported the Ordinances, stating the criminal element will
then be eliminated.
Shawn Hauser, Sensible Colorado organization, supported a regulated retail model.
Joe Hodas, Denver resident, stated he is the chief marketing officer for a company which makes
edible marijuana products. He illustrated the child-resistant packaging and labeling for his
products and supported a regulated retail model and opposed a ban on edibles.
Ray Martinez, 4121 Stoneridge Court, stated there is no rush to make a decision on this issue, as
more research should be completed. He stated crime has been increased by black market
marijuana sales to other states.
Ashley Kasprzak, Team Fort Collins Executive Director, stated early substance use and abuse
are major issues for the community’s youth.
Larry Abrahamson, Fort Collins resident, stated Amendment 64 allows communities the
opportunity to make a decision as to whether retail marijuana outlets are appropriate and Council
should look at data and research from other communities prior to making a decision.
Bob Doyle, Colorado Tobacco Education and Prevention Alliance Executive Director, stated this
would commercialize another drug, which would increase its use. He discussed the growth of
the marijuana wax business and opposed allowing retail marijuana facilities.
Kirk Scramstead, Fort Collins resident, provided a presentation illustrating child-resistant
packaging and warning labels, and discussed edible regulation.
Mayor Weitkunat stated the first Ordinance deals with regulations for the consumption and
possession of marijuana within the City and prohibits the transfer or display of marijuana on
City-owned property.
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Mayor Pro Tem Horak made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Cunniff, to adopt
Ordinance No. 038, 2014, on First Reading.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak noted Amendment 64 provided municipalities the right to define public
use, which this Ordinance regulates.
Councilmember Cunniff stated there is not much controversy with this item and he will support
the motion.
Councilmember Troxell asked how the state legislative session may impact this provision.
Sawyer replied there currently is activity in the Legislature regarding this topic; however, it is
not particular to personal use and consumption.
Mayor Weitkunat noted this Ordinance prohibits the display and transfer of marijuana on all
City-owned property.
The vote on the motion was as follows: Yeas: Horak, Weitkunat, Cunniff, Overbeck, Poppaw,
Troxell and Campana. Nays: none.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Mayor Weitkunat stated the second Ordinance deals with establishing regulations for the
cultivation of marijuana.
Councilmember Cunniff stated one of the provisions of this Ordinance involves impacts in multi-
family dwellings in terms of mold, odor and other impacts. Sawyer replied the Building
Department’s Codes will deal with this type of issue on a complaint basis. She stated various
odor complaints are challenging.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Campana, to adopt
Ordinance No. 039, 2014, on First Reading.
Mayor Weitkunat noted this Ordinance regulates cultivation of marijuana, prohibits cultivation in
open areas and multi-family residences, and institutes a twelve plant limit.
Councilmember Cunniff expressed concern the City has not been given the power to prohibit
cultivation in multi-family residences. He stated impacts should be regulated and requested
alternate language referencing such be presented for Second Reading.
City Attorney Roy requested Council detail its requests for alternate provisions.
Councilmember Overbeck also requested alternative language referencing impacts for this
Ordinance.
Councilmember Troxell asserted the provision before Council is well within the guidelines of
what the City can do.
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The vote on the motion was as follows: Yeas: Horak, Weitkunat, Cunniff, Overbeck, Poppaw,
Troxell and Campana. Nays: none.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Poppaw, to adopt
Ordinance No. 041, 2014, on First Reading, including the option to include Section E under
Section 15-607.
Councilmember Troxell stated there is a great deal of concern in the community in terms of
putting regulations into effect prior to understanding community impacts. He expressed concern
regarding community values and the area’s youth. He stated this action is directly at odds with
the ability for youth to grow and thrive appropriately and supported a two year moratorium,
opposing the motion.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak stated this is a polarizing issue and discussed the history of medical
marijuana and the ability of municipalities to create their own regulations. He stated the
argument of increased tax revenue is detestable as a reason for allowing retail facilities, but
suggested a tax on the industry could be placed on the November ballot.
Mayor Weitkunat clarified the motion included Option E and did not include the Option related
to retail sales of edibles.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak stated Option E requires a change from medical marijuana sales should
those facilities opt to sell retail marijuana, and would require identification to prove age over 21.
Councilmember Cunniff stated he would support the motion as being a rational step in the right
direction. He noted Council does not have the ability to prohibit recreational marijuana in Fort
Collins. He suggested prohibiting retail sales would increase home cultivation and lead to
greater amounts of the substance in the community.
Councilmember Troxell argued Councilmember Cunniff’s opinion is naïve and stated marijuana
will still be grown in residences. He discussed the differences between alcohol and recreational
marijuana and suggested regulations should also include regulations on growing in homes.
Councilmember Campana stated staff should be afforded the opportunity to discuss its
recommendation that the moratorium continue for two additional years.
City Manager Atteberry stated there are three reasons staff is recommending the extension of the
moratorium on retail sales for two years: (1) the cash nature and quantity of marijuana which will
be occurring at retail sites, resulting in significant policing concerns; (2) concern about impacts
on the City brand as a family-friendly community and college town; and (3) concern regarding
youth usage and brain development.
Police Chief Hutto stated the cash nature of the business creates potential issues as a nexus for
crime. Additionally, he expressed concern regarding the continuation of black market marijuana
in terms of export to other states and cited statistics to support that concern. Chief Hutto also
expressed concern regarding the proliferation of marijuana in schools and stated retail sales of
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marijuana will be a resource impact for public safety. He suggested the continuation of the
moratorium would allow time to collect additional data from other communities.
Councilmember Campana asked if in-home cultivation decreases with the allowance of retail
sales. Chief Hutto replied there is no definite data regarding that issue but stated he does not
believe retail sales will eliminate in-home cultivation.
Councilmember Campana stated resources have already been spent to train officers to deal with
marijuana and asked Chief Hutto to elaborate on those expenditures. Chief Hutto replied one
full-time position has been dedicated to dealing with the reestablishment of medical marijuana
facilities. He stated ongoing inspections and other issues with retail marijuana will demand at
least one or two full-time positions.
Councilmember Campana asked if those costs have been compared to projected tax revenues.
City Manager Atteberry replied in the negative but stated he would research the issue prior to
Second Reading.
Councilmember Campana asked about the performance of the medical marijuana facilities in the
community. Chief Hutto replied he does not currently have data regarding license issues but
stated there have been burglaries and an armed robbery. Sawyer replied there have been license
violations and one establishment was recently forced to pay a fine and serve days in suspension.
Councilmember Campana discussed awareness and availability and questioned what effect
nearby availability will have on consumption. Sawyer replied those data points have not yet
been established in other communities. Chief Hutto replied there is anecdotal evidence of a
marked increase in marijuana usage in high schools when medical marijuana returned to the
community.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak argued this testimony and data were not included in the written agenda
materials and stated the staff recommendation should have been presented earlier. City Manager
Atteberry replied there should have been more information in the written agenda materials and
stated Council knew staff’s recommendation earlier.
Councilmember Campana noted City Manager Atteberry stated the staff recommendation at the
start of the item and stated he would elaborate as desired; the motion was made prior to City
Manager Atteberry being given a chance to do so. Additionally, he stated Council received
information at the work session regarding the staff recommendation.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak argued the data discussed by Chief Hutto is new information.
Councilmember Campana agreed the data should have been included at the work session and in
the agenda materials.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak stated staff had six months to prepare its data and recommendation.
Councilmember Cunniff asked if the cash nature of the marijuana business differs from that of
bars and liquor stores. Chief Hutto replied liquor stores have historically been a target of crime
due in part to the cash nature of transactions, similar to other cash oriented businesses such as
gas stations.
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Councilmember Cunniff asked how long marijuana has been in Fort Collins. Chief Hutto replied
it has likely been here as long as the city itself.
Councilmember Cunniff discussed drug-related incarceration rates and the fact there are many
children whose parents have been jailed for victimless crimes. He stated social expectations are
changing and evolving and argued banning retail sales would not eliminate the substance in the
community.
City Manager Atteberry discussed a memo sent to Council in advance of its work session in
February which outlined the issues mentioned by Chief Hutto.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak stated that memo should have been included in the agenda item summary.
City Manager Atteberry agreed with Mayor Pro Tem Horak.
Councilmember Overbeck stated Fort Collins will not lose its standing by allowing retail sales of
marijuana and stated it is a legitimate business.
Councilmember Campana argued a continuation of the ban for two years is not detrimental to
Fort Collins’ brand either and stated it would allow time for data to be collected, though he
acknowledged City staff is capable of effectively creating necessary regulations.
Councilmember Poppaw stated this issue has been discussed for years and it is time to begin
moving forward. She stated City staff is capable of creating regulations to protect the
community’s youth.
Mayor Weitkunat discussed the fact there are counter arguments for each point and stated
Council needs to act responsibly and use the next two years to collect data, citing the hydraulic
fracturing issue. She discussed Fort Collins’ tough regulations on smoking tobacco and
compared that to marijuana. Additionally, she argued Fort Collins’ brand is at risk by allowing
retail marijuana sales.
The vote on the motion was as follows: Yeas: Cunniff, Overbeck, Poppaw and Horak. Nays:
Weitkunat, Troxell and Campana.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Mayor Pro Tem Horak made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Cunniff, to adopt
Ordinance No. 042, 2014, on First Reading. Yeas: Weitkunat, Horak, Cunniff, Poppaw,
Overbeck and Campana. Nays: Troxell.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Resolution 2014-020
Making an Appointment to the Fort Collins
Housing Authority Board of Commissioners, Adopted
The following is the staff memorandum for this item.
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“EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this item is to appoint a Councilmember to the Fort Collins Housing Authority
to fill the remainder of Councilmember Lisa Poppaw's term expiring on May 1, 2017.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION
Section 2-247 of the City Code provides that the Housing Authority shall consist of
commissioners selected by the City Council in a manner provided by the State Statute. Section
29-4-205(3)(b) C.R.S. provides that the initial terms of the appointed commissioners shall be
staggered from the date of their appointments so that, to the extent possible, the terms of an
equal number of commissioners end each year and, thereafter, the term of the commissioners
shall be for five years.
Current Council Liaison Councilmember Lisa Poppaw the has found it necessary to step down
from the Fort Collins Housing Authority. Councilmember Poppaw is requesting a new
Councilmember be appointed to fulfill her term which expires on May 1, 2017.”
Councilmember Poppaw made a motion, seconded by Councilmember Overbeck, to adopt
Resolution 2014-020, inserting Councilmember Cunniff as the appointee.
Councilmember Poppaw stated she needs to relinquish her position on the Housing Authority
due to scheduling demands.
Councilmember Campana commended Councilmember Poppaw for her work on the Housing
Authority and thanked Councilmember Cunniff for his willingness to take over the position.
The vote on the motion was as follows: Yeas: Poppaw, Troxell, Campana, Horak, Weitkunat,
Cunniff and Overbeck. Nays: none.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Other Business
Mayor Pro Tem Horak requested and received Council support to direct the City Manager to
return with a proposal regarding Sunday MAX bus service. City Manager Atteberry replied he
will return in two weeks with information.
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Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 10:15 p.m.
_________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________
City Clerk