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HomeMy WebLinkAboutReport - Mail Packet - 3/14/2013 - 6. City Managers Monthly Update March 14, 2013March 14, 2013 ISSUES BEFORE COUNCIL Fee on Disposable Grocery Shopping Bags...............................................................................2 Water Supply Shortage Response Plan and Drought Rate Ordinance ......................................2 Business Assistance Policy and Procedures for Primary Employers ........................................2 URA Update to Policies and Procedures .................................................................................3 Council End-of-Term Report ....................................................................................................3 ECONOMY Fort Collins Sales and Use Tax ..................................................................................................3 CAPITAL PROJECTS Harmony Road Maintenance – College to Timberline ..............................................................4 Citywide Pedestrian Access Project...........................................................................................4 South Shields Street Bridge over Larimer Canal No. 2 .............................................................5 West Mulberry Bridge Replacement Design .............................................................................5 West Prospect Bridge Replacement Design ..............................................................................6 Westbury and Shields Improvements ........................................................................................6 Troutman Underpass ..................................................................................................................7 Spring Creek (NRRC) Overpass ................................................................................................7 Mason Corridor MAX Bus Rapid Transit Project ................................................................. 7-8 Utilities Capital Projects ...................................................................................................... 8-12 COMMUNITY EVENTS ...........................................................................................................13 PUBLIC SAFETY UPDATE Police Services ................................................................................................................... 14-16 Poudre Fire Authority ........................................................................................................ 16-18 BUILDING ACTIVITY ........................................................................................................ 19-20 2 ISSUES BEFORE COUNCIL March 18 Adjourned Regular Meeting Fee on Disposable Grocery Shopping Bags  The City Council will review on first reading an ordinance that would apply a 10- cent/bag fee on plastic and paper grocery shopping bags, with second reading scheduled for March 26.  As proposed, the ordinance would allow grocers to retain 40% of the fee for administrative purposes and provide education/outreach to their customers. The City collects the remaining 60% of fees to pay for additional education outreach, as well as to enhance recycling opportunities for plastic bags and provide durable shopping bags to citizens.  The concept of limiting the use of disposable bags by applying fees or bans was introduced to Colorado in 2011 by the communities of Telluride, Aspen, Basalt, and Carbondale. In 2012, the City of Boulder passed a 10-cents/bag fee, which becomes effective in July 2013.  If adopted by the City Council, a fee on disposable bags in Fort Collins would become effective in October 2013. Water Supply Shortage Response Plan and Drought Rate Ordinance  The City Council will review on first reading an ordinance that would: o impose rate changes for Response Levels 2-4; o impose Excess Use Surcharge increases beginning at Response Level 1; o redefine and exempt water features at some Response Levels. Business Assistance Policy and Procedures for Primary Employers  Work began in fall 2012 to study peer community business assistance policy and procedures to enhance the City’s own policy.  Economic Health Office staff presented findings to City Council during the January 22, 2013 work session.  The intent of the business assistance policy is to “encourage quality primary job retention and creation through private sector investment in our community that supports a balanced, sustainable and resilient economy.”  The policy framework looks at 10 key areas: applicability, organization and management, available assistance tools, application requirement, evaluation criteria, business assistance inputs, economic and other analysis, minimum company commitment, compliance monitoring, and annual reporting.  A policy framework work plan was created that will begin in April 2013 and be reviewed for continuous improvements. 3 March 26 Adjourned Meeting URA Update to Policies and Procedures  All URA projects that include new construction or major renovations of existing buildings (more than 50% of square footage affected) shall be required to meet the Energy Star label.  URA funded projects will be required to demonstrate that at least 50% of the waste materials by weight (excluding wastes containing lead, asbestos or other hazardous material) generated by a construction or demolition project be diverted from the landfill through waste management options, such as reuse or recycling.  The URA Board will delegate the authority to approve Administrative Procedures with the Executive Director.  Minor language changes in the policies will be made to clarify intent. March 26 Work Session Council End-of-Term Report  Every two years, staff and City Council take an opportunity to highlight the accomplishments of the City Council during its two-year term.  This work session will review Council's achievements and celebrate the progress the community has made on achieving its key priorities and desired outcomes. ECONOMY FORT COLLINS SALES AND USE TAX January 2013 Sales tax collections increased 4.0% Use tax collections excluding rebates increased 10.2% Sales and use tax collections excluding rebates increased 4.7% 2013 YTD Sales tax collections increased 4.0% Use tax collections excluding rebates increased 10.2% Sales and use tax collections excluding rebates increased 4.7% 4 CAPITAL PROJECTS (new information noted in blue text) ENGINEERING HARMONY ROAD MAINTENANCE – COLLEGE TO TIMBERLINE Funding Source: Harmony Maintenance Fund and Building on Basics (BOB) Funds Estimated Project Budget: $2.5 million Status: On Budget, On Schedule  Phase Two of the project will consist of safety improvements and signal upgrades at the Harmony Road and Union Pacific Railroad crossing. The existing railroad equipment does not meet the current code requirements for a six-lane roadway crossing.  The City and Union Pacific have executed all necessary agreements. We are working on  After the construction Union Pacific dates installs and expect their new the work facilities, to be the completed City will in have the spring some minor of 2013. asphalt patching and striping work to do adjacent to the crossing. Harmony Road will then be a  six-The lane project roadway website from is located Boardwalk at the to following I-25. link: http://www.fcgov.com/engineering/hmp.php CITYWIDE PEDESTRIAN ACCESS PROJECT Funding Source: KFCG Funds Estimated Project Budget: $100,000 Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The City of Fort Collins Pedestrian Plan addresses citywide pedestrian needs. However, there was not an inventory of existing sidewalks or sidewalk deficiencies. The Citywide Pedestrian Access Project (a.k.a. Pedestrian Needs Assessment) will provide a complete sidewalk inventory, as well as identify sidewalk inadequacies, and also identify inadequate handicap accessibilities according to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. The project will: o Determine the condition, missing location, and City and ADA compliance of sidewalks and ramps within the City right of way. o Be cataloged in a database, which also manages the street pavement maintenance, bridge inventory, and utilities inventory. o Bring all the different data together; pedestrian needs project work will be coordinated with other projects for cost savings and minimization of impacts to the public. o Use data collection to provide maps, cost estimates, and a prioritized project list for a repair program to begin fall of 2013.  Data collection is ongoing with approximately 497 street miles of sidewalk assessed and inventoried at this time.  30,500 accessible ramps have been identified as acceptable, substandard, or missing in accordance with the ADA requirements.  Staff is implementing a program to determine the level of service for sidewalks. 5  Current projects identified through the assessment: o Intersection of Boardwalk/JFK (100’ along Boardwalk with HC ramp at intersection) - CenturyLink has removed base and has backfilled the site. Sidewalk and ramp construction will begin in the spring. o Avery Park Area (575’ along Clearview east of Castlerock) – On account of Vogel workload, project to take place in spring 2013. o Avery Park Area (337’ along Castlerock south of Clearview) – On account of Vogel workload, project to take place in spring 2013. o Intersection of Boardwalk/Oakridge Drive (150’ along Boardwalk with HC ramp at intersection) – Project to take place in spring 2013. o Staff is beginning to identify 2013 projects, and is currently reviewing missing sidewalk segments. SOUTH SHIELDS STREET BRIDGE OVER LARIMER CANAL NO. 2 Funding Source: Colorado Off System Bridge Program (BRO) funds and KFCG 2011 Estimated Project Budget: $1.5 million Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The main goal of this project is to replace the second worst rated, structurally deficient bridge in the City.  Construction will include the removal of the existing structure, the construction of a new structure, relocation and upgrading of existing utilities, and the construction of urban design features. The new bridge will be similar in size to the existing bridge.  The project will be constructed in phases, starting on the east half of the structure, followed by the west half. During construction, traffic lanes will be reduced to one lane in each direction. Bicycles will be asked to merge with traffic or find alternate routes. Pedestrian access will always be available during the duration of the project.  Traffic has been switched over to the east half of the new structure so work on the west half of the structure can begin. Urban design improvements continue on the east half of the new structure.  Upcoming months will see the demolition of the remaining half of the existing bridge, and foundation construction and girder placement for the new structure.  This project was bid together with the Laporte/Whitcomb Bridge to achieve overall project savings.  Additional project information and information on planned roadway closures can be found at http://www.fcgov.com/engineering/shields-bridge.php WEST MULBERRY BRIDGE REPLACEMENT DESIGN Funding Source: Colorado Off System Bridge Program (BRO) funds and KFCG 2011 Estimated Project Budget: $250,000 (Design only) Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The goal of the project is to replace the existing structurally deficient bridge with a new bridge that meets the current standards.  The posted weight limit on this bridge precludes the passage of emergency vehicles from the nearby fire station. 6  In December 2011, the City received a grant for $700,000 in Colorado Off System Bridge Program (BRO) funds for some of the construction cost.  Design efforts are underway and will be complete by this fall. Construction is planned for fall 2014. WEST PROSPECT BRIDGE REPLACEMENT DESIGN Funding Source: KFCG 2011 Estimated Project Budget: $250,000 (Design only) Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The goal of the project is to replace the existing structurally deficient bridge with a new bridge that meets the current standards.  The State of Colorado inspected this bridge in March 2011 and found significant structural issues resulting in a temporary plate being installed and load posting restricted to 15 tons.  Design efforts are underway and will be completed by summer 2013. WESTBURY AND SHIELDS IMPROVEMENTS Funding Source: Building on Basics (BOB) along with Xcel Energy contributions Estimated Project Budget: $650,000 Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The goal of this project is to relieve traffic congestion and vehicle wait time by constructing an additional northbound travel lane on Shields from Clarendon Hills to Westbury.  The need for this safety and operational improvement was identified in the Engineering Department’s recently completed Arterial Intersection Prioritization Study. The lane addition on Shields will improve traffic flow by relieving congestion for northbound traffic, whereby the outside lane will act as a right turn lane during the peak hours and a through lane during the off-peak hours.  The proposed improvements will reduce the morning peak hour delay by 18%.  Xcel Energy will be constructing its West Main Natural Gas Pipeline Replacement Project through this area. The roadway improvements will be coordinated with Xcel’s schedule.  Southbound Shields has existing curb and gutter along this stretch of roadway. The project will patch two locations southbound, and place a 2-inch asphalt overlay over the entire roadway with new striping.  We anticipate the work being completed in the summer of 2013.  The final product will reshape Shields Street to a four-lane arterial with a center left turn lane and on-street bike lanes from Harmony Road to Clarendon Hills Drive (approximately 0.5 miles).  A communication plan (public outreach) is being developed and will be implemented with the final design through construction.  The project website is available through the Engineering homepage at http://www.fcgov.com/engineering/shields-westbury.php 7 TROUTMAN UNDERPASS Funding Source: Federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) grant and Building on Basics (BOB) Funds Estimated Project Budget: $1.5 million Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The goal of the project is to construct a new pedestrian/bike underpass that will link the Mason Bike Trail to Troutman Road.  The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) process is complete.  The project was awarded to Structures, Inc. Construction will begin July 2012 and will be completed by February 2013.  The portion of structure in the BNSF railroad right-of-way was constructed during the end of July railroad closure.  Mason Trail reopened to the public in December 2012.  Steel railing, fencing, and electrical lighting are currently being installed.  The underpass concrete and railing will be painted in April 2013 when overnight temperatures allow for proper paint curing. SPRING CREEK (NRRC) OVERPASS Funding Source: Federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) grant and Building on Basics (BOB) Funds Estimated Project Budget: $2.75 million Status: On Budget, On Schedule  The goal of the project is to construct a new pedestrian/bike overpass that will link the Mason Bike Trail and the federal campus on the west side of the railroad tracks to the Mason Corridor Bus Rapid Transit MAX station on the east side of the tracks.  All approvals and clearances have been obtained.  Staff is reevaluating the project design, including the possibility of an alternate design with ramps instead of elevators.  The proposed schedule is to complete construction by May 2014 in conjunction with the opening of the MAX BRT. MASON CORRIDOR MAX BRT PROJECT Funding Source: FTA 80%, Local Match (CDOT SB-1, CDOT FASTER, City, and Downtown Development Authority) 20% Estimate Project Budget: $87 million Status: On Budget, On Schedule  Work continues on the CSU Campus on Mason Street from Laurel to University, including sidewalk, handicap ramps and handrail installation.  Station work continues to progress through the project corridor and related work is as follows: o Downtown Transit Center Station – station has been set and crews have transitioned to flat work. o Northbound Mountain Station – foundation and piers have been installed and it is anticipated that the station will be set early March. 8 o Southbound Olive Station - station has been set and crews have transitioned to flat work. o Northbound Swallow Station – foundation and piers have been installed. o Southbound Swallow Station – excavation for foundation in process. o Troutman Station - excavation for foundation in process. o Harmony Station - excavation for foundation in process.  Intersection improvements at Maple and Mason will be complete after the installation of truncated domes for the handicap ramps.  Intersection improvements at LaPorte have been completed and include the installation of decorative crosswalks.  CEI crews continue to make progress on the drainage installation throughout the project area. The focus area this month has been on the west side of KMART north to Whole Foods. Construction of the detention pond piping has also commenced south of Prospect Street.  Conduit installation for the MIS duct bank is also ongoing, and approximately 1200 feet has been installed this month.  Construction for the sub-structure of the bridge at Mail Creek continues to progress.  The retaining wall located to the north of the Troutman Underpass has been constructed and only minor earthwork remains in that area for full completion.  Caissons have been installed for the large retaining wall located south of Prospect.  The retaining wall located at the northbound Swallow station has been installed.  Caissons have been installed for the Spring Creek headwall.  Growling Bear continues construction of the South Transit Center, including installation of building and canopy columns. Plumbing and electrical components of the building have also commenced. Crews are wrapping up work on the detention pond, site grading and utilities.  Heath Construction continues work on the Maintenance Facility Expansion, including rough grading and caisson installation. UTILITIES WEST VINE OUTFALL CHANNEL Project Description: This is a joint project between the City and Larimer County to design and construct a stormwater outfall channel for the West Vine Basin to the Poudre River. The project is being coordinated with Larimer County’s widening of Shields Street from the Arthur Ditch to Willox. Project Budget: Alternatives Analysis Phase ($104,000); Final Design ($243,000); Construction Estimate $2.4 Million Project Status: Alternative Analysis Phase Completed; Negotiating with Land Owners Anticipated Completion; Preliminary Design underway; Construction in the fall of 2013 Highlights:  Cost estimates of alternatives have been developed.  The two property owners (Arnett and Scott) have been presented with a proposal to purchase land for the project.  Working on collaboration with Natural Areas. 9  Preliminary Design for the Water Quality area north of Vine Drive and the Outfall to the River has begun. WASTEWATER COLLECTION SYSTEM – SMOKE TESTING Project Description: This project will identify defects in the sanitary sewer system that lead to excess flow at the wastewater treatment plant. The project involves blowing smoke into manholes in the area of concern and identifying locations where smoke comes to the surface. Measures will be taken to minimize the risk of smoke entering homes and businesses. Flow monitoring data since 2009 was used to identify areas throughout town that should be tested for possible defects. Project Budget: The project is being conducted with City staff. Project Status: The testing is planned to start in mid-March. Highlights:  Flow monitoring has been conducted for the majority of the system since 2009.  Smoke Testing plan for the spring of 2013 has been developed.  A public relations plan is being developed. LAPORTE AVENUE TRANSMISSION MAIN IMPROVEMENTS Project Description: Removal and rehabilitation of Utilities’ 20 inch and 27 inch water transmission facilities in LaPorte Avenue as directed by the Water Master Plan in order to accommodate the reconstruction and paving of LaPorte by Streets Department in the summer of 2013. The project will involve valve installation and removal, new vault installation, old vault demolition, pipe lining, and new service connections. City water crews will perform new service connections this winter in preparation for the major construction next summer. Project Budget: Under development Project Status: Project design scope in preparation by City Staff and Stantec Engineering Consultants Highlights:  Project that serves to prepare for the abandonment of the old diagonal 20 inch and 27 inch transmission mains between LaPorte Avenue and Vine Drive.  Work completed in early summer of 2013 will allow for repaving of LaPorte Avenue from Shields Street to Overland Trail in late summer/fall of 2013. 42 INCH SANITARY SEWER MAIN AND 12 INCH WATER MAIN RELOCATION AT MULBERRY BRIDGE Project Description: In order to accommodate the construction of the new bridge over the Poudre River on Mulberry Street by CDOT, conflicting utility lines must be relocated. At CDOT expense, the 42 inch sanitary sewer main and the 12 inch water main will be relocated to the north to a location that will not conflict with the new wider bridge. The project will include the relocation design, permitting, and relocation construction necessary to remove the utility lines from conflict with the new bridge. Project Status: Intergovernmental Agreement for both design and construction phase in place. Project funded by CDOT. 10 Design Schedule: September 2012 through November 2012 Construction Schedule: February 18, 2013 through May 15, 2013 Project Status: On Schedule Highlights:  Project design and construction using Utilities Alternative Product Delivery System approved by CDOT.  Relocation of large utility mains under the Poudre River presents numerous engineering and construction management costs.  Project is now under construction. There are many existing utility conflicts and relocations required to allow for the new 42 inch sewer and the 12 water main.  The first of three large manholes set the last week of February.  Contractor will install an electrical duct bank along with our sewer at the request of Light and Power.  There is a growing concern of spring storm runoff flows having an impact on the project. CURED IN PLACE PIPE (CIPP) WATER MAIN REHABILITATION PROJECT Project Description: Water Engineering is investigating the use of cured in place pipe technology to rehabilitate short stretches of water distribution lines (approximately 8 inches in diameter). The lines under consideration for this rather new technology have been selected due to their concentrated number of leaks and repairs in one area. The method uses steam to cure resin infused pipe which has been inserted into a reamed and cleaned old pipe. Coupons for the service taps are cut inside the pipe by a camera cutter tool. The process offers the promise of economical pipe replacement with a minimum of disruption to our customers. Project Status: In discussions with involved contractors. Cost estimates in preparation. Specification for cast in place pipe, and temporary potable water supply in preparation. Construction Budget: $100,000.00 Construction Schedule: 1-3 small test projects this summer. Project on schedule. BOX ELDER CREEK OUTFALL IMPROVEMENTS Project Description: Large regional flood control project to be designed and constructed under Intergovernmental Agreements with Timnath Development Authority and Boxelder Basin Stormwater Authority. Project involves channel grading and road crossing improvements from I-25 to the Poudre River along the Boxelder Creek Corridor. Project Status: Engineering design Scope of Work in preparation. Conceptual level cost estimate in preparation. Project Schedule:  Preliminary Design: January 2013 – August 2013  CLOMR Submittal: September 2013  Right of Way Requirements: March 2013 – April 2014  Final Design and Permitting Requirements: October 2013 – April 2014  Construction: May 2014 – December 2014 11 CATHODIC PROTECTION OF WATER TREATMENT AND TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM WATER LINES Project Description: Investigation of existing systems in place used to protect water lines from corrosion, design of rehabilitation of existing and new systems to prevent corrosion, and construction of modified and new systems. Project Budget: $177,000 Budget Status: Within budget Project Status: On schedule, this is an ongoing project Highlights:  Working with consultant and contractor on testing current cathodic protection levels and locations, and installing modified and new systems where needed.  Modified the cathodic protection test sites on the raw water line going into the treatment plant in March 2012.  Took readings and conducted continuity testing of AB line, Mulberry, Lemay, and Lincoln lines.  Designing rectifiers and locations for rectifiers along the AB line and at the WTP.  Preparing legal exhibits and obtaining easements for the rectifier locations along the AB line.  Working with contractor on work order for cathodic protection work in preparation for anode and rectifier installation at the WTF.  Meeting with other water districts to discuss cathodically bonding to their systems which cross the City’s system. BUS RAPID TRANIST (BRT) WATER AND SEWER RELOCATES Project Description: Relocation and protection of major water and sewer utility lines due to the construction of the BRT. Project Budget: $1,250,000 Budget Status: Working on design and construction for water and sewer crossings Project Status: Potholing complete, design and construction underway; completed seven water and sewer modification projects. Anticipated Completion: Winter 2011 – Fall 2013 Highlights:  All Utilities impacted by the BRT have been identified and cost estimates were developed.  Coordination with the BRT continues.  Contract for design services completed; construction contracts for all identified projects in effect.  Council approved reallocation of water and wastewater budget.  Completed Troutman water line replacement.  Coordinating with BRT and Utilities team to schedule construction work in Prospect Road which includes water, sewer, and electric duct bank modifications.  Water Utility Work to begin in Prospect the first week in March; Utility work estimated to take approximately 3 to 4 weeks. 12 STREAM REHABILITATION AND ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM Project Description: Stream restoration and habitat enhancement across City including stabilizing stream channel morphology, restoring/creating new native in-stream and riparian habitat to attract and support native fish and wildlife populations, and promote BMPs to improve water quality. First watershed in program is Fossil and Mail Creek. Project Budget: $600,000 each year Budget Status: Working with consultant and contractor on vision Project Status: Initial Program Visioning charette completed. Anticipated Completion: First project design to be complete by fall 2013 with construction to begin fall of 2014. Highlights:  Conducted several vision meetings and site visits.  Met with Corps of Engineers representative to discuss Individual Permit requirements – must conduct Threatened and Endangered Species survey and other items which will not fit timeframe for construction this fall, so preliminarily scheduled for fall 2014.  Prepared for a Visioning charette with City Departments in February.  Conducted Vision charette. RIGDEN MUNICIPAL STORAGE POND Project Description: Final design of the Flatiron gravel pit east of Ziegler and north of Horsetooth as a municipal storage pond below the Drake Water Reclamation. Purpose of the storage is to retime flows to meet water rights return flow obligations and meet augmentation requirements. Project is a cooperative effort with Natural Areas and Parks. Project Design Budget: $336,112 Budget Status: Preliminary Design is complete; Final Design has begun Project Status: On Schedule Anticipated Completion: Design complete in 2013; Construction in 2014 Highlights:  Anderson Consulting is preparing the final design.  City Attorneys are preparing the draft purchase agreement.  Acquisition costs being are finalized.  Cost estimate and schedule are being updated. 13 COMMUNITY EVENTS Community Side-by-Side Play Along with the Fort Collins Symphony Location: Lincoln Center Performance Hall, 417 W. Magnolia Date/Time: Sunday, March 24, 2013 2:00-4:30 PM Details: The Symphony is proud to present our first-annual community Side-by-Side play along event. The play along gives amateur musicians in the community the unique opportunity to perform ‘side-by-side’ with their Fort Collins Symphony counterparts. Registration fee: $15 per person/$25 for two participants from the same household. With every paid registration, you will receive 2 complimentary audience tickets. Web address: http://www.fcsymphony.org. Contact Information: Phone: 970-482-4823; Email address: note@fcsymphony.org Tricks and Tips for Xeriscape Location: Midtown Arts Center, 3750 S. Mason Street Date/Time: Wednesday, March 27, 2013 7:00 PM Details: Mikl Brawner, co-owner of Harlequin Gardens, will share his 25 years of xeriscape experience with tricks for turning your yard into an attractive setting while reducing water use and maintenance. Web address: http://www.fcgov.com/reps Contact Information: Fort Collins Utilities Phone: (970)221-6700; E-mail address: utilities@fcgov.com Spring Break Detectives - Finding Nature's Clues Location: Bobcat Ridge Natural Area, south of Masonville (off CR 27) Date/Time: Friday April 5, 2013 9:30 AM Details: Bring your family to develop your observation and nature detective skills at several fun, interactive educational stations to explore the natural and cultural features of Bobcat Ridge. Arrive anytime between 9:30-11:30 a.m. to begin. Bring water to drink and snacks. Carpool if possible. Note: dogs are not allowed at Bobcat Ridge. Free, no registration. Web address: http://www.fcgov.com/naturalareas Contact Information: Deborah Price Phone: 970-217-3075; E-mail address: dprice@fcgov.com To view the full calendar of events, visit http://www.fcgov.com/events/ 14 PUBLIC SAFETY UPDATE FORT COLLINS POLICE SERVICES Call Load In February 2013, officers responded to 7,661 incidents resulting in 1,411 cases compared to 8,096 incidents and 1,447 cases for the same period last year. Year-to-date totals reflect a decrease in both categories when compared to the same period last year. 2012 - YTD 2013 - YTD Incidents 16331 15673 Cases 2927 2873 Indecent Exposure Fort Collins police are investigating the report of an indecent exposure that occurred in the 100 block of Sylvan Street on February 26 shortly after 8:00 a.m. An 11-year-old girl reported a man in a small, dark green SUV-style vehicle with tinted back windows pulled up next to her and exposed himself while she was walking a dog. The suspect is described as being a light-skinned black or medium-skinned Hispanic male, in his 30’s, short and slightly overweight. Polar Plunge Fort Collins Police Chief John Hutto and Poudre Fire Authority Fire Chief Tom DeMint were joined by several Fort Collins Police employees in the annual Polar Plunge fundraiser benefitting Special Olympics of Colorado on February 9. The group jumped in the cold waters of the Boulder Reservoir on a cold, snowy morning when the air temperature barely reached 32 degrees and raised over $2000 dollars for the athletes. Teams from the Larimer County Sheriff’s Department and the Larimer County District Attorney’s Office also participated in the Polar Plunge. Special Olympics of Colorado offers year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics provides athletes continued opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community. Fort Collins police also supports Special Olympics of Colorado in the Annual Law Enforcement Torch Run each spring. Youth Police Academy Accepting Applications Police Services is accepting applications for the 13th annual Youth Police Academy held in June (first session June 10; second session June 17). The five-day program for high school students goes “behind the scenes” for an inside look at law enforcement. Students are introduced to topics such as: crime scene investigation, evidence collection, search and seizure procedures and 15 laws, building searches, K-9s, court procedures, defensive driving and more, enabling students to gain community experience while exploring law enforcement as a possible career choice. The academy is open to Poudre School District students, current grade 9-12, with an interest in law enforcement; carry a minimum of 2.5 GPA, and no serious criminal background. Applications, due April 19, are available from and returnable to the student’s School Resource Officer. There is no cost to attend the academy. Armed Robbery Police are investigating the February 4 Armed Robbery of Marco’s Pizza, 1640 S. Lemay Avenue. An unknown suspect entered the business, displayed a firearm while demanding money, and fled with an undisclosed amount of cash. No employees were injured during the robbery. The suspect was described as a Caucasian male, with a medium build, approximately 5’7” to 5’9” tall, short brown hair, and is believed to be in his mid to late twenties. He was wearing a green jacket and jeans at the time of the robbery. Theft Investigation Police are investigating the February 1 theft report at Super Wal-Mart, 1250 E. Magnolia Street and a vehicle trespass that occurred in the parking lot by the same suspects. An unknown male and female entered the store and stole a vehicle battery valued at $118.00. While in the parking lot, the suspects were seen taking a backpack containing two laptops valued at $1,000 total from the unsecured bed of a pickup truck. The suspects, a medium built Caucasian male in his mid- twenties to early thirties and a heavyset Caucasian or Hispanic female, left in a green, full-size SUV, possibly a GMC Suburban or Chevy Tahoe. TRENDS Noise Violations Noise complaints tend to be higher in the evening and night-time hours than they are during the day. The number of evening and night-time noise complaints received in January were below the average for that month when compared to the past four years, and also showed a decrease from the previous month of December. Each month, the police department focuses attention on evening and night-time noise complaints in an effort to address any rising issues. Two geographical areas of focus in January included: 1) West Elizabeth Street south to Springfield Street and Constitution Avenue east to City Park Avenue; and 2) West Elizabeth Street and South Taft Hill Road northwest to Orchard Place and Ponderosa Drive. Continued monitoring and mitigation efforts will help decrease noise complaints overall. Crime Prevention During February, the Crime Prevention Specialist spoke to 59 people and handled 28 telephone calls on topics including providing a senior citizen with tips on selling her car, a private party, and setting up training for the Better Business Bureau staff on Dealing with Difficult People. There were presentations to 59 people including the merchants at Front Range Village on loss prevention and the RESTORE program, restorative justice with juvenile shoplifters. 16 A breakdown of the month’s Crime Prevention activities follows:  Dealing with Difficult People, Better Business Bureau - 18 attended  Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design, John XXIII - 2 attended  Front Range Village Merchants, Loss Prevention & RESTORE - 25 attended  Neighborhood Watch, Old Town North - 10 attended  Child Safety, Kidz Town - 4 attended Crime Prevention Tip Vehicle trespasses continue to be a hot topic in the west part of town. Thieves are always looking for the easy marks, and that usually means unlocked vehicles. The second thing they look for is something of worth, and that means that if you leave something of value in plain sight, they might be willing to take chances to go after it. Most crimes are crimes of OPPORTUNITY. Please take away the opportunity and do your part in Crime Prevention to make it harder for the criminals. It can be so easy to do. POUDRE FIRE AUTHORITY Residential Fire in Southwest Area Fort Collins Police let two dogs out of a burning home prior to the arrival of firefighters who made quick work of a small kitchen fire Sunday, February 10 on Wabash Street. The fire was initially reported by a neighbor as smoke coming from the front windows and smoke alarms sounding. Firefighters found the fire burning the counter and cupboards of the two-story residential structure and extinguished it, while also performing searches and removing smoke from the building. Nobody was found home except the dogs that were safe with the officers until Larimer Humane Society took control of them. The fire damaged a portion of the kitchen; however, there was a moderate amount of heat and smoke damage throughout the main floor, along with a light amount of smoke damage in the basement. Assisting agencies: City of Fort Collins Police Services, Larimer Humane Society and PVH Emergency Services. 17 Investigators have determined the origin to be the kitchen; more specifically, a coffee maker that was possibly left in the ‘on’ position. The cause is listed as ‘accidental,’ unattended heat source. PFA Annual Awards & Recognition Ceremony Poudre Fire Authority held the 2013 Annual Awards & Recognition Ceremony on Friday, February 8. The ceremony was at Club Tico, 1599 City Park Drive in Fort Collins. Recognitions were for the 2012 calendar year. Poudre Fire Authority holds this event to recognize both citizens and employees for exceptional actions or service. The categories are:  Citizen Partnership Award - given to individuals or businesses that make notable efforts to support the Poudre Fire Authority in our goal of community service. Examples include significant contributions toward training, public education, or other support of our department or its mission;  Citizen Lifesaving Award - for an action taken by a citizen of the community in a direct effort to save the life or lives of others;  Meritorious Service Award - recognizes acts of Poudre Fire Authority personnel, either on-duty or off-duty, that are above and beyond reasonable expectation and exemplify the highest principals of our organization;  PFA Mission, Vision and Values Award - for uniformed and staff personnel in recognition of outstanding effort within the scope of duty that reflect PFA’s core values. Staff Volunteers Time Community Safety & Services Staff volunteered time to the Loveland Fire Rescue Authority & Lauren Project Smoke Alarm & Carbon Monoxide Alarm Outreach Project in Loveland. Not only were our members able to volunteer for a very worthwhile project, they gained firsthand knowledge and experience for when PFA is able to move forward on a similar project. The goal was to contact 1300 homes. PFA Welcomes Recruit Firefighters Five new recruits were welcomed by the department as they start their journey to their position on line. The recruits will go through 19 weeks of training before they are qualified to become a probationary firefighter on a company. Training includes subjects such as structural and wildland firefighting, hazardous materials, rope rescue, self-contained breathing apparatus, emergency medical response, and much more. 18 Incident Statistics (by category) Report Period: February 2013 Total Loss Fires 21 $75,116 Overpressure/rupture, explosion-no fire 0 Rescue / EMS 906 Hazardous Condition - no fire 21 Service Call 47 Good Intent Call 79 False Alarms / False Calls 88 Severe Weather & Natural Disaster 0 Special Incident Type 1 Total = 1,163 YEAR-TO-DATE 2013 Total Loss Fires 65 $370,866 Overpressure/rupture, explosion-no fire 1 Rescue / EMS 1,864 Hazardous Condition - no fire 55 Service Call 116 Good Intent Call 169 False Alarms / False Calls 211 Severe Weather & Natural Disaster 0 Special Incident Type 2 Total = 2,483 Comparison: February 2012 Total Loss Fires 25 $178,720 Overpressure/rupture, explosion-no fire 1 Rescue / EMS 844 Hazardous Condition - no fire 24 Service Call 63 Good Intent Call 76 False Alarms / False Calls 112 Severe Weather & Natural Disaster 0 Special Incident Type 1 Total = 1,146 Comparison: YEAR-TO-DATE 2012 Total Loss Fires 49 $189,460 Overpressure/rupture, explosion-no fire 1 Rescue / EMS 1,781 Hazardous Condition - no fire 45 Service Call 130 Good Intent Call 159 False Alarms / False Calls 199 Severe Weather & Natural Disaster 0 Special Incident Type 2 Total = 2,366 *Information subject to change due to updated data. 19 BUILDING ACTIVITY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES 2012 YTD 2013 YTD % Change Development Project Submittals Received 30 47 + 57% Conceptual/Staff Reviews Performed 30 46 + 53% Building Permits Issued 921 865 -6% Building Inspections Performed 5,188 5,129 -1% Plan Reviews Performed 265 297 +12% General Fund Development Review revenues are approximately $38,000 above projections for 2013 as of February 28. Projects of note include:  Link-N-Greens/Woodward – A formal submittal was received and the initial review completed. The project was approved by the Planning & Zoning Board on February 21, 2013 and became effective March 7. The proposed easements required for the project and a Business Assistance package will be presented to City Council for approval in March.  Foothills Mall Redevelopment – Efforts on this project continue. The project was approved by the Planning & Zoning Board on February 7, 2013. An appeal regarding the approval of the modification of standards requests in connection with the sign package has been filed. The appeal will be heard by Council on March 19. Next steps include final plan submittal, vacation of Foothills Parkway (Council Action) and completion of a development agreement.  Eastside and Westside Neighborhoods – The proposed Land Use Code changes were adopted by City Council on March 5, 2013. The changes will go into effect on May 15, 2013.  West Central Neighborhoods Plan Update – Work has begun on a plan to provide an updated vision for this area. The Plan will serve as a basis for land use regulations, housing policies, transportation practices and historic preservation. Emerging issues that have been raised by citizens include student housing, transportation and compatibility. Neighborhood representatives have been contacted to determine if there is any interest from them in participating on this project. A staff team will be identified shortly.  Construction Projects of Note - Several multi-family permits issued for the Trails at Timberline and One Boardwalk Place developments, with an associated 154 dwelling units. 20 Other items of note:  The Planned Development Overlay District (PDOD) pilot program has been approved. The new review process is scheduled to go into effect on March 8, 2013.  A ban on oil and gas fracturing was adopted by City Council on March 5, 2013. Staff is now moving forward on drafting legislative solutions, an operator agreement and updating the Land Use Code.  Code changes related to animals, signs in the right-of-way and election signs all gained Council approval.