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
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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.
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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%
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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/
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.