HomeMy WebLinkAboutMemo - Mail Packet - 4/23/2013 - Memorandum From Molly Wendell Re: Boards And Commissions And Committee AssignmentsCity Clerk’s Office
City Hall
300 LaPorte Ave.
PO Box 580
Fort Collins, CO 80522
970.221.6515
970.472.3002 - fax
fcgov.com
MEMORANDUM
DATE: April 18, 2013
TO: Mayor and City Councilmembers
FROM: Molly Wendell, Boards and Commissions Coordinator
THROUGH: Wanda Nelson, City Clerk
SUBJECT: Boards and Commissions and Committee Assignments
Boards and commissions liaison appointments and committee assignments will soon be
considered at an upcoming Council meeting. To help you with your planning, I have attached
the following:
a packet outlining general information, The Role of Council Liaisons to Boards and
Commissions, and policies and procedures
a grid reflecting current assignments (2011-2013), as well as a blank grid (2013-2015)
a list and brief description of the boards, commissions, authorities and committees
Please contact me if you have any questions regarding this process.
Attachments
City Council
• Boards and Commissions
• Authorities
• Council Committees
• Other Assignments
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CITY COUNCIL BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
General Background 1
Types of Boards and Commissions 2
Council Liaison Role 3
General Policies and Procedures 4
Annual Reports 5
Work Plans 5
Periodic Reviews 6
Appreciation Event 9
Annual Recruitment 9
Training for Boardmembers 9
CITY COUNCIL LIAISON ASSIGNMENTS 10
Boards and Commissions 10
Authorities 11
Council Committees 11
Other Assignments 12
RESOURCES 13
ATTACHMENTS
1. 2013-2015 Council Boards and Commissions
Liaison Assignments Blank Planning Grid
2. 2011-2013 Council Boards and Commissions
Liaison Assignments Grid
3. Council Committee and Authority Functions
4. Boards and Commissions Functions
CITY COUNCIL BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
General Background
The City of Fort Collins currently has 25 standing boards and commissions consisting of
approximately 200 volunteer members. All boardmembers are appointed by the Fort
Collins City Council and serve without compensation. Boards and commissions are
established for the purpose of acquiring and studying information in specific areas and to
make recommendations to City Council on issues within the board's area of expertise.
Some boards are quasi-judicial and have decision-making powers within their areas of
expertise. Decisions made by quasi-judicial boards are appealable to the City Council or
the courts.
Each board and commission is supported by a staff liaison. In addition, each board and
commission has a Council liaison. The City Clerk's Office coordinates the recruitment and
appointment process for all boards and commissions.
1
Types of Boards and Commissions
There is no difference between a board or commission. Specific duties and functions are
established individually for each board or commission. The majority of boards and
commissions are advisory to the City Council and/or City administration and do not have
decision-making powers. The advisory boards are as follows:
Advisory to Council:
Affordable Housing Board
Air Quality Advisory Board
Art in Public Places Board
Commission on Disability
Community Development Block Grant Commission
Cultural Resources Board
Economic Advisory Commission
Energy Board
Golf Board
Land Conservation and Stewardship Board
Natural Resources Advisory Board
Parking Advisory Board
Parks and Recreation Board
Senior Advisory Board
Transportation Board
Women’s Commission
Youth Advisory Board
Advisory to Council and City Administration:
Citizen Review Board
Various boards and commissions are quasi-judicial and have decision-making powers
within their areas of expertise. Their decisions are subject to appeal to the City Council or
the courts. The following are quasi-judicial boards:
Quasi-Judicial:
Building Review Board
Human Relations Commission
Landmark Preservation Commission
Planning and Zoning Board
General Employee’s Retirement Committee
Water Board
Zoning Board of Appeals
2
Council Liaison Role
Every two years, following the election of Councilmembers, the Council selects its liaisons
to the boards and commissions. Council has defined the role of Council liaisons as
follows:
1. To communicate with the board or commission when Council
communication is needed and to serve as the primary two-way
communications channel between Council and the board or
commission.
2. To take the lead in filling vacancies, reviewing applications,
and interviewing candidates for the board or commission.
3. To serve as the primary informal Council contact for the board
or commission.
4. To help resolve questions the board or commission may have
about the role of Council, municipal government, and the board
or commission.
5. To establish formal or informal contact with the chairperson of
the board or commission and effectively communicate the role
of the liaison.
6. To provide procedural direction and relay Council's position to
the board or commission, and to communicate to the board or
commission that the liaison's role is not to direct the board in
its activities or work.
7. To serve as Council contact rather than an advocate for or ex-
officio member of the board or commission.
8. To review the annual work plan of the board or commission
and make recommendations to the City Council regarding the
work plan.
9. To identify and help resolve any problems that may exist with
respect to the functioning of the board or commission.
10. To facilitate the training of new board and commission
members by providing suggestions and relevant information to
the City staff members responsible for providing such training.
3
General Policies and Procedures
The City Clerk’s Office annually prepares a Boards and Commissions Manual which
includes functions of boards and commissions, conflict of interest guidelines, appeal
procedures, membership limitations, attendance policies and other policy and procedural
information adopted by Council. The Manual can be found at: www.fcgov.com/boards.
General information about each specific board including meeting times is also available on-
line at: www.fcgov.com/boards.
The Clerk’s Office coordinates various yearly processes including annual appointments,
filling mid-year vacancies, periodic reviews, annual reports and work plans review. The
following table summarizes yearly on-going Council responsibilities to boards and
commissions:
Council Actions
January Council Liaisons submit Work Plan comments to City Clerk
Propose amendments to Work Plans (if desired) at 2nd meeting in January
February Consider Resolution to amend Work Plans (if desired)
Review Annual Reports
March
April Following Council reorganization in April of odd-numbered years, decide
which of the various boards and commissions and committee assignments
are of interest
May
June
July Work Session Periodic Review of Boards and Commissions
August
September
October Conduct annual recruitment interviews
November Conduct annual recruitment interviews
Host Annual Appreciation Event
December Annual Appointment Resolution (2nd meeting in December)
Council Liaisons review Work Plans
Note: Mid-year vacancy interviews are conducted as needed
4
The following information is provided as a brief overview of several of the yearly processes
related to boards and commissions. The City Clerk’s Office is responsible to coordinate
these processes and activities.
Annual Reports
Each board and commission is required, by City Code, to prepare an annual report on or
before January 31 of each year for the previous year. Annual reports are filed with the City
Clerk for distribution to the City Council. Annual reports should directly correspond to the
work plan prepared by the board or commission for the year. The status of each item
identified on the work plan should be included, along with other items of business
conducted by the board or commission.
Work Plans
The City Code requires all boards and commissions to file work plans on or before
November 30 for the following year. Work plans are filed with the City Clerk and are
distributed to each Council Liaison for review and comments. Work plans should set out
major projects and issues for discussion for the following year. Timelines and scope of
review should be provided when possible. If appropriate, an estimate of action to be taken
should be included. Work plans should be concise and easily readable.
The following table includes the deadlines and action needed to complete the work plan
review process:
WORK PLAN DEADLINES ACTIONS
November 30 Work plans for boards and commissions must be filed
with City Clerk
Second Thursday in December City Clerk forwards specific work plans with comment
forms to Council liaisons
Approximately 2 weeks after Clerk distributes work
plans with comment forms
Council liaison comments due back to City Clerk
Early January City Clerk circulates all work plans with Council liaison
comments to City Council
2nd City Council meeting in January Councilmembers propose amendments to work plans
pursuant to previously established policy for initiating
and developing Council ordinances and resolutions.
(Support of 3 Councilmembers needed to initiate item.)
1st City Council meeting in February Council consideration of resolution to make
amendments (if any) to work plans.
5
Periodic Reviews
Each year several boards and commissions are reviewed at a work session. Prior to
Council’s review, each board or commission scheduled for review prepares a self-
assessment questionnaire which will be provided to the Council as a part of its work
session materials.
The chair and vice chair (or designees) of each board being reviewed attend the work
session to answer questions. The purpose of the review is to determine whether (a) the
board should continue without alteration, or (b) direction to staff to prepare legislation
making any changes (number of members, duties, etc.).
Periodic Review Schedule
2013 Human Relations Commission
Planning and Zoning Board
Women’s Commission
Zoning Board of Appeals
2014 Air Quality Advisory Board
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Commission
Landmark Preservation Commission
Retirement Committee
2015 Art in Public Places Board
Cultural Resources Board
Land Conservation and Stewardship Board
Senior Advisory Board
2016 Building Review Board
Citizen Review Board
Natural Resources Advisory Board
Transportation Board
2017 Commission on Disability
Economic Advisory Commission
Energy Board
Parks and Recreation Board
2018 Affordable Housing Board
Golf Board
Parking Advisory Board
Water Board
Youth Advisory Board
6
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
PERIODIC REVIEW QUESTIONNAIRE
DATE PREPARED:
BOARD/COMMISSION NAME:
LIST OF MEMBERS:
1. Are the current duties of the board, as defined by City Code, realistic? If
not, what duties would you suggest be added and/or deleted?
2. Is the board’s workload (annual work plan) too much; too little; about
right? Explain.
3. Does the board effectively accomplish its annual work plan?
7
4. Are board meetings conducted in an effective manner? What could be
done to improve board meetings?
5. Is the current size of the board appropriate?
6. Are communications between the board and Council effective? What could
be done to improve these communications?
7. Other comments:
Attachments:
/ City Code description of duties
/ Current Work Plan
/ Current Annual Report
/ Current Bylaws
8
Appreciation Event
An annual appreciation reception is hosted by City Council to thank boardmembers for their
contributions to the City. Typically this event is held in the fall of the year. Boardmembers
who have met term limits are individually recognized. Boardmembers volunteer a
considerable amount of time, energy and expertise to the City. This is an informal event
which gives Council an opportunity to show appreciation to volunteer boardmembers.
Annual Recruitment
The City Clerk’s Office facilitates the recruitment and appointment process for filling
vacancies on boards and commissions. Advertising and recruitment runs from late August
through September of each year to fill term limit and current vacancies. Appointments to
the boards and commissions are made annually in December, with terms of new members
beginning on January 1.
Recruitment for the Youth Advisory Board runs from April to May of each year to coincide
with the school year schedule. Appointments to the Youth Advisory Board are made in
May, with terms of new members beginning on June 1.
The Clerk’s Office determines Council interview teams to include the Council liaison and
one other Councilmember. Every effort is made to balance the number of interviews
between Councilmembers. The Clerk’s Office provides Council with a summary list
including interview partners, number of applicants, and time needed to complete
interviews. The Clerk’s Office schedules all interviews after Council interview teams
confirm availability.
Throughout the year vacancies often occur due to resignations. If the pool of applications
on file from the last annual appointment process is not sufficient to fill interim vacancies,
the City Clerk's Office advertises for additional applicants.
Appointments are confirmed by Council Resolution.
Training for Boardmembers
All boardmembers are required to complete a training course which includes general
information about the City organization and the role of boards and commissions, as well
as legal issues for boardmembers. The training DVD is available online or copies can be
requested from the Clerk’s Office. The Clerk’s Office tracks the completion of training.
9
CITY COUNCIL LIAISON ASSIGNMENTS
In addition to Council liaison assignments to boards and commissions, Councilmembers
are assigned to various committee and liaison assignments by Council resolution.
Resolution 1991-100 provides that the appointments of Council liaisons, committee
members, and representatives are to be made at the regular meeting following the Council
reorganization meeting in election years. Interim appointments are made as necessary.
Boards and Commissions
A Councilmember is assigned as a non-voting liaison to each City board or commission
and is teamed with another Councilmember to screen and interview applicants for board
and commission vacancies. The interview team makes recommendations to Council for
appointments. Councilmembers interview approximately 100 applicants for an estimated
60 vacancies each year.
Councilmembers are assigned as liaisons to each of the following boards and commissions
which are wholly or partially appointed by Council:
• Affordable Housing Board
• Air Quality Advisory Board
• Art in Public Places Board
• Building Review Board
• Community Development Block Grant Commission
• Citizen Review Board
• Commission on Disability
• Cultural Resources Board
• Economic Advisory Commission
• Energy Board
• Golf Board
• Human Relations Commission
• Land Conservation and Stewardship Board
• Landmark Preservation Commission
• Natural Resources Advisory Board
• Parking Advisory Board
• Parks and Recreation Board
• Planning and Zoning Board
• Retirement Committee
• Senior Advisory Board
• Transportation Board
• Water Board
• Women’s Commission
• Youth Advisory Board
• Zoning Board of Appeals
10
Authorities
These authorities, which differ from boards and commissions, have varying degrees of
autonomy. They are created by the Council under the authority of the State Statutes. A
Councilmember usually serves as a voting member of the Downtown Development and the
Housing Authority.
The number in parentheses after each indicates the number of Councilmembers serving
on the various committees, authorities and boards.
• Downtown Development Authority (1 + alternate)
• Housing Authority (1)
Note: the Municipal Judge serves as the Liquor Licensing Authority
Council Committees
City Council utilizes several committees to assist the Council in making policy decisions in
various areas of concern. Councilmembers currently serve on three Council committees.
• Ethics Review Board (3 + 1 alternate)
• Finance Committee (3)
• Future’s Committee (3)
• Legislative Review Committee (3)
11
Other Assignments
Councilmembers may also be appointed or nominated to serve on external committees or
boards, which currently include:
• Airport Steering Committee (Mayor)
• Colorado Municipal League Policy Committee (1)
• Colorado State University Liaison Committee (2)
• Disaster Council/ Policy Coordinating Committee (Mayor)
• Forfeited Property Disposition Committee (Mayor or designee)
• Larimer County Open Lands Advisory Board (1)
• Library Trustee Selection Committee (2)
• North College Urban Renewal Plan Citizen Advisory Group (1 +A)
• North Front Range Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) (1 + alternate)
• Platte River Power Authority Board of Directors (Mayor or Designee)
• Poudre Fire Authority Board of Directors (2)
• Poudre Heritage Alliance (1)
• Poudre School District Liaison Committee (2)
12
RESOURCES
Boards and Commissions Website: www.fcgov.com/boards
Boards and Commissions Manual: www.fcgov.com/boards
Molly Wendell, Boards and Commissions Coordinator
City Clerk’s Office
416-2525
mwendell@fcgov.com
13
Attachment 1
2013-2015
Council Boards and Commissions
Liaison Assignments Blank Planning Grid
Attachment 1
2013-2015
COUNCIL BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS LIAISON ASSIGNMENTS
AND COUNCIL COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS
ASSIGNMENT
OVERBECK
POPPAW
CAMPANA
TROXELL
CUNNIFF
HORAK
WEITTKUNAT
LEGISLATIVE
APPOINTMENT
REFERENCE
COUNCIL BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS LIAISON ASSIGNMENTS
Affordable Housing Board (1) Resolution 2013-
Air Quality Advisory Board (1) Resolution 2013-
Art in Public Places Board (1) Resolution 2013-
Building Review Board (1) Resolution 2013-
Citizen Review Board (1) Resolution 2013-
Commission on Disability (1) Resolution 2013-
Community Development Block
Grant (CDBG) Commission (1)
Resolution 2013-
Cultural Resources Board (1) Resolution 2013-
Economic Advisory Commission
(1)
Resolution 2013-
Energy Board (1) Resolution 2013-
Golf Board (1) Resolution 2013-
Human Relations Commission (1) Resolution 2013-
Land Conservation & Stewardship
Board (1)
Resolution 2013-
Landmark Preservation
Commission (1)
Resolution 2013-
ASSIGNMENT
OVERBECK
POPPAW
CAMPANA
TROXELL
CUNNIFF
HORAK
WEITTKUNAT
LEGISLATIVE
APPOINTMENT
REFERENCE
Natural Resources Advisory Board
(1)
Resolution 2013-
Parking Advisory Board (1) Resolution 2013-
Parks and Recreation Board (1) Resolution 2013-
Planning and Zoning Board (1) Resolution 2013-
Retirement Committee (1) Resolution 2013-
Senior Advisory Board (1) Resolution 2013-
Transportation Board (1) Resolution 2013-
Water Board (1) Resolution 2013-
Women’s Commission (1) Resolution 2013-
Youth Advisory Board (1) Resolution 2013-
Zoning Board of Appeals (1) Resolution 2013-
COUNCIL COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS
Ethics Review Board (3 + A) Resolution 2013-
Finance Committee (3) Resolution 2013-
Futures Committee (3) Resolution 2013-
Legislative Review Board (3) Resolution 2013-
OTHER ORGANIZATION ASSIGNMENTS
ASSIGNMENT
OVERBECK
POPPAW
CAMPANA
TROXELL
CUNNIFF
HORAK
WEITKUNAT
LEGISLATIVE
APPOINTMENT
REFERENCE
AUTHORITY ASSIGNMENTS
Downtown Development Authority
Board (1 + A)
Resolution 2013-
Housing Authority (1) X Resolution 2012-026
(Until May 1, 2017)
OTHER ORGANIZATION ASSIGNMENTS
Airport Steering Committee
(Mayor + CM)
X IGA Joint Operation of Ft.
Collins/Loveland Airport
Colorado Municipal League (CML)
Policy Committee (1 + CM)
X Resolution 2012-077
Colorado State University Liaison
Committee (2)
Resolution 2013-
Disaster Council/Policy
Coordinating Committee (Mayor)
X Emergency Operations Plan
(Article II, Sec. 4 of the City
Charter)
Forfeited Property Disposition
Committee*
Resolution 92-122
Larimer County Open Lands
Advisory Board (1)
Resolution 2013-
Library Trustee Selection
Committee (2)
Resolution 2013-
North College Urban Renewal Plan
Citizen Advisory Group (1)
Resolution 2013-
North Front Range Metropolitan
Planning Council (MPO) (1 + A)
Resolution 2013-
Platte River Power Authority* (plus
one additional member from the
City)
X Organic Contract
ASSIGNMENT
OVERBECK
POPPAW
CAMPANA
TROXELL
CUNNIFF
HORAK
WEITKUNAT
LEGISLATIVE
APPOINTMENT
REFERENCE
Poudre Fire Authority Board of
Directors (2 + CM )
Resolution 2013-
Poudre Heritage Alliance (1) Resolution 2013-
Poudre School District
Liaison Committee (2)
Resolution 2013-
* = Mayor or designee
A = Alternate
Attachment 2
2011-2013
Council Boards and Commissions
Liaison Assignments Grid
Attachment 2
2011-2013
COUNCIL BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS LIAISON ASSIGNMENTS
AND COUNCIL COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS
ASSIGNMENT
HORAK
KOTTWITZ
MANVEL
OHLSON
POPPAW
TROXELL
WEITKUNAT
LEGISLATIVE
APPOINTMENT
REFERENCE
COUNCIL BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS LIAISON
ASSIGNMENTS
Affordable Housing Board (1) X Resolution 2011-
044
Air Quality Advisory Board (1) X Resolution 2011-
044
Art in Public Places Board (1) X Resolution 2011-
044
Building Review Board (1) X Resolution 2011-
044
Citizen Review Board (1) X Resolution 2011-
044
Commission on Disability (1) X Resolution 2011-
044
Community Development Block
Grant (CDBG) Commission (1)
X Resolution 2011-
044
Cultural Resources Board (1) X Resolution 2011-
044
Economic Advisory Commission
(1)
X Resolution 2011-
044
Energy Board (1) X Resolution 2011-
076
Golf Board (1) X Resolution 2011-
044
Human Relations Commission (1) X Resolution 2011-
044
ASSIGNMENT
HORAK
KOTTWITZ
MANVEL
OHLSON
POPPAW
TROXELL
WEITKUNAT
LEGISLATIVE
APPOINTMENT
REFERENCE
Land Conservation & Stewardship
Board (1)
X Resolution 2011-
044
Landmark Preservation
Commission (1)
X Resolution 2011-
044
Natural Resources Advisory
Board (1)
X Resolution 2011-
044
Parks and Recreation Board (1) X Resolution 2011-
044
Planning and Zoning Board (1) X Resolution 2011-
044
Retirement Committee (1) X Resolution 2011-
044
Senior Advisory Board (1) X Resolution 2011-
044
Transportation Board (1) X Resolution 2011-
044
Water Board (1) X Resolution 2011-
044
Women’s Commission (1) X Resolution 2011-
044
Youth Advisory Board (1) X Resolution 2011-
044
Zoning Board of Appeals (1) X Resolution 2011-
044
COUNCIL COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS
Ethics Review Board (3 + A) X X X A Resolution 2011-
044
Finance Committee (3) X X X Resolution 2011-
044
Futures Committee (3) X X X Resolution 2011-
067
Legislative Review Committee (3) X X X Resolution 2011-
044
OTHER ORGANIZATION ASSIGNMENTS
ASSIGNMENT
HORAK
KOTTWITZ
MANVEL
OHLSON
POPPAW
TROXELL
WEITKUNAT
LEGISLATIVE
APPOINTMENT
REFERENCE
AUTHORITY ASSIGNMENTS
Downtown Development Authority
Board (1 + A)
A X Resolution 2011-044
Housing Authority (1) X Resolution 2007-042
(until May 1, 2012)
OTHER ORGANIZATION ASSIGNMENTS
Airport Steering Committee
(Mayor + CM)
X IGA Joint Operation
of Ft.
Collins/Loveland
Airport
Beet Street Board of Directors (1) X Resolution 2008-043
Colorado Municipal League (CML)
Policy Committee (1 + CM)
X Resolution 2011-116
Colorado State University Liaison
Committee (2)
X X Resolution 2011-044
Disaster Council/Policy
Coordinating Committee (Mayor)
X Emergency
Operations Plan
(Article II, Sec. 4 of
the City Charter)
ASSIGNMENT
HORAK
KOTTWITZ
MANVEL
OHLSON
POPPAW
TROXELL
WEITKUNAT
LEGISLATIVE
APPOINTMENT
REFERENCE
Forfeited Property Disposition
Committee*
X Resolution 92-122
Larimer County Open Lands
Advisory Board (1)
X Resolution 2011-044
Library Trustee Selection
Committee (2)
X X Resolution 2011-044
North College Urban Renewal
Plan Citizen Advisory Group (1)
X Resolution 2011-044
North Front Range Air Quality
Council (1)
X This is an
appointment by the
MPO
North Front Range
Transportation/Air Quality
Planning Council – Metropolitan
Planning Council (MPO) (1 + A)
X A
Resolution 2011-044
North I-25 Front Range
Environmental Impact Study (EIS)
Project Regional Coordination
Committee – CDOT (1)
X
Resolution 2011-044
Platte River Power Authority*
(plus one additional member from
the City)
X Organic Contract
Poudre Fire Authority Board of
Directors (2 + CM )
X X Resolution 2011-047
Poudre Heritage Alliance (1) X Resolution 2011-044
Poudre School
District/City/Larimer County
Liaison Committee (2)
X X
Resolution 2011-044
Regional Air Quality Commission X Appointed by
Governor’s Office
* = Mayor or designee
A = Alternate
Attachment 3
Council Committee and Authority Functions
Attachment 3
COUNCIL COMMITTEE FUNCTIONS AND MEMBERSHIP
AIRPORT STEERING COMMITTEE
The committee facilitates communication between the Cities of Fort Collins and Loveland and advises the
Councils of each City concerning Airport issues. Such issues shall include but not be limited to general
policy, budget, capital improvement projects, and service planning.
Membership: Mayor and City Manager
Meetings: Every other month (January, March, May, July, September,
November, 3:00 p.m.)
COLORADO MUNICIPAL LEAGUE (CML) EXECUTIVE BOARD
The Colorado Municipal League is an influential voice for municipal interests on state and federal policies
affecting municipalities and is also an important source of information for municipal officials in serving their
communities. The Executive Board is responsible for overall finances, management and policy affairs of
the League.
Membership: Membership is by election (currently the City of Fort Collins does not
have a representative on the Executive Board)
Meetings: Meetings set annually in December
COLORADO MUNICIPAL LEAGUE (CML) POLICY COMMITTEE
The Colorado Municipal League is an influential voice for municipal interests on state and federal policies
affecting municipalities and is also an important source of information for municipal officials in serving their
communities. The Policy Committee is responsible for reviewing legislative proposals and recommending
to the League Executive Board, positions of support, opposition, no position or amendment to a wide
variety of legislation affecting cities and towns.
Membership: 2 City of Fort Collins representatives (Currently 1 Councilmember and
City Manager)
Meetings: Quarterly (TBA)
COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY LIAISON COMMITTEE
Created to discuss and address matters of mutual interest (including land use, utility and transportation
services, the enforcement of municipal ordinances, human rights) to the City and CSU.
Membership: 2 Councilmembers, the City Manager and such administrative staff as the
City Manager may deem appropriate; the President of CSU; the
President of ASCSU; the Vice-President for Administrative Services; the
Vice-President for University Advancement; and the Directory of Campus
Housing and Food Services.
Meetings: Quarterly (2:00 p.m.)
DISASTER COUNCIL – Emergency Operations Plan
Monitors implementation of the City Emergency Operations Plan and assists cooperating agencies during
all phases of an emergency/disaster.
Membership: Mayor, City Manager, Deputy City Manager, Emergency Management
Coordinator, City Clerk, City Attorney, Chief of Police, Fire Chief,
Directors of Administrative Services, CLRS, Transportation Services,
CPES, Utility Services and Risk Management.
Meetings: On an as needed basis
DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The authority shall be a body corporate with all the purposes and powers authorized by Title 31, Article 25,
Part 8, C.R.S., and all additional and supplemental powers necessary or convenient to carry out and
effectuate the purposes and provisions of said statues.
Membership: 11 members, 9 of which are either residents, landowners or tenants
within the boundaries of the authority; 1 which is a member of the Board
of Larimer County Commissioners;1 which is a City Councilmember; and
1 Alternate Councilmember.
Meetings: Monthly (2nd Thursday, 7:30 a.m.)
ETHICS REVIEW BOARD
Created to assist Councilmembers and board and commission members in interpreting and applying the
definition, rules and procedures pertaining to ethics established by the Charter and Code and by the
applicable provisions of state statute.
Membership: 3 Councilmembers plus one alternate.
Meetings: Scheduled as needed
FORFEITED PROPERTY DISPOSITION COMMITTEE – Resolution 92-122
Mandated by Colorado General Assembly Senate Bill 92-204 forfeited property seized by Police Services
may not be used or expended without approval of a committee.
Membership: Mayor or designee
Meetings: On an as needed basis
FINANCE COMMITTEE
Established to consider financial policy issues facing the City and to make recommendations regarding
those issues to the City council.
Membership: 3 Councilmembers.
Meetings: Typically 1st and 3rd Mondays each month (10:30 a.m.)
FUTURES COMMITTEE
Formed to assist the City Council in their decision making process. The goal is to develop a vision for the
future of Fort Collins over the next 30 years and beyond, utilizing economic, environmental and social
modeling.
Membership: 3 Councilmembers
Meetings: 2nd Monday each month (4 p.m.)
HOUSING AUTHORITY
The Fort Collins Housing Authority secures public and private sector funds (federal, state, and local) to
develop, maintain, and implement assisted housing programs, operating within the corporate limits of Fort
Collins. Leadership, advocacy, and policies for governing and operations are vested in the Board of
Commissioners. Members of the Authority set the goals for assisted housing in Fort Collins. Through an
intergovernmental agreement the FCHA governs the housing programs for the Larimer County Housing
Authority.
Membership: Selected by City Council as provided by state statute; Council can serve
as ex-officio as the commissioners or
appoint 7 commissioners, one of whom may be a City official. The latter
is the current membership.
Meetings: Monthly (4th Thursday, 7:30 a.m.)
LARIMER COUNTY OPEN LANDS ADVISORY BOARD – Advisory board to the Larimer County
Commissioners
Created to make recommendations regarding the County’s share of the sales and use tax approved in the
November 1995 election earmarked for open space, natural areas, wildlife habitat, regional parks and
trails.
Membership: One elected official or appointee from the municipalities of Berthoud,
Estes Park, Fort Collins and Loveland; one member from the Larimer
County Planning Commission; and four citizens appointed at large.
Meetings: Monthly, 4th Thursday (5:00 p.m.)
LEGISLATIVE REVIEW COMMITTEE
Created to review and analyze proposed state and federal legislation which may affect the City’s interests,
express the previously established policy determinations of the Council as applied to such legislation and
refer back to the Council those issues and recommendations which are not governed by existing Council
policy.
Membership: 3 Councilmembers
Meetings: Monthly, 2nd Tuesday (4:00 p.m.)
LIBRARY TRUSTEE SELECTION COMMITTEE
The IGA between the City, the Library District and the County provides for a committee of two
Councilmembers and two County Commissioners to make recommendations for Library District Trustee
appointments. Selected Trustees must be approved by a two-thirds majority of the Council and of the
Commissioners.
Membership: 2 Councilmembers, 2 County Commissioners
Meetings: On an as needed basis
NORTH COLLEGE URBAN RENEWAL PLAN CITIZEN ADVISORY GROUP
Created to tailor implementation of the North College Urban Renewal Plan to the unique circumstances in
the area to render advise to the URA Board of Commissioners.
Membership: 1 or 2 members of City Council, 1 member from the Planning and Zoning
Board and strong representation from owners in the North College
Corridor area. (Currently 1 Councilmember and 1 alternate
Councilmember serve on this advisory group)
Meetings: Monthly, 1st Thursday (7:30 a.m.)
NORTH FRONT RANGE METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION (MPO)
Created to work together with other local governments in Larimer and Weld Counties to develop
transportation plans and policies that will assist in managing projected growth in a sound, cost-effective
manner.
Membership: Elected officials from the cities of Fort Collins and Greeley as well as
other governmental entities in the north front range area who voluntarily
decide to participate in this process. (Currently 1 Councilmember and 1
alternate Councilmember serve on this council).
Meetings: Monthly (1st Thursday, 5:30 p.m.)
PLATTE RIVER POWER AUTHORITY
Established a separate governmental entity to be used by the Municipalities (Fort Collins, Loveland,
Longmont and Estes Park) to effect the development of electric energy resources and the production and
transmission of electric energy in whole or in part for the benefit of inhabitants of the Municipalities.
Membership: Two members from each of the four member cities, with one being the
Mayor (or another member of the municipality’s governing board
designated by the Mayor) and the other to be another individual selected
by the municipality’s governing body for “judgment, experience, and
expertise which make him or her particularly qualified to serve as the
director of an electric utility.”
Meetings: Monthly, last Thursday (9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.)
POUDRE FIRE AUTHORITY BOARD OF DIRECTORS – Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA), dated
November 3, 1987
IGA provides for the formation of an independent governmental entity for the purpose of providing fire
protection services within the respective territorial limits of the parties hereto.
Membership: The City shall appoint 2 members and the District shall appoint 2
members. The fifth member shall be appointed by the four other
members. This fifth member has typically been the Fort Collins City
Manager.
Meetings: Monthly, 4th Tuesday (9:00 a.m.)
POUDRE HERITAGE ALLIANCE
Created to comply with the Cache La Poudre River Corridor Act (enacted by Congress) to develop an
interpretive plan for the river corridor from the eastern boundary of Roosevelt National Forest to one-
quarter mile west of the confluence of the Cache La Poudre and South Platte Rivers.
Membership: 1 Councilmember, the City Manager and representatives of Weld and
Larimer County and the cities of Loveland and Greeley.
Meetings: Monthly, 2nd Wednesday (2:00 p.m.)
POUDRE SCHOOL DISTRICT LIAISON COMMITTEE
Created to achieve products and services of a higher quality than would be achieved by the City and the
Poudre School District working separately, and by so doing provide quality education and municipal
services for citizens of all ages at the lowest possible cost.
Membership: Superintendent of Poudre School District, 1 school board member,
Larimer County Manager, Chairperson of County Commissioners, City
Manager and 2 Councilmembers.
Meetings: Quarterly (7:30 a.m.)
Attachment 4
Boards and Commissions
Functions
Attachment 4
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS FUNCTIONS
Affordable Housing Board
The Affordable Housing Board advises the City Council on matters pertaining to affordable housing issues
of concern to the City. The City has established several programs designed to stimulate the construction
of additional affordable housing units and retention of existing housing units in the community. These
programs include development review priority processing, impact fee collection delay and sales tax
rebates.
Air Quality Advisory Board
The Air Quality Advisory Board advises the City Council regarding policies, plans and programs to improve
and maintain the city's air quality. The Board may, without limitation, biennially review air quality
indicators; review and recommend revisions as needed to the Air Quality Plan, and to any other City
Plans that may have significant impacts on air quality; and advise the Governor-designated lead agency
for air quality planning on matters pertaining to the Fort Collins element of the State Implementation Plan.
The Board may also convene ad hoc citizen task groups to provide additional technical expertise to the
Board for the planning of specific strategies The Board coordinates its work with the Transportation
Board, Natural Resources Advisory Board and the Planning and Zoning Board.
Art in Public Places Board
The Art in Public Places Board advises and makes recommendations to the City Council regarding
incorporation of works of art into construction projects; advises and makes recommendations to the City
Council regarding the acceptance of offers to donate art to be placed in public areas; and advises and
makes recommendations to the Executive Director of Culture, Parks Recreation and Environment
Services Unit and the City Council as to rules, regulations, guidelines, policy, administrative and budgetary
matters pertaining to the Art in Public Places Program.
Building Review Board
The Building Review Board is charged with the responsibility to hear appeals and requests for variances
related to the Fort Collins building codes and contractor licensing regulations. The BRB hearing provides a
formal recourse to building permit and contractor license applicants who disagree with an interpretation or
ruling by the Fort Collins Building Official. The BRB is authorized to rule in favor of the applicant and to
approve alternative building methods and materials that are not specifically prescribed in the building
codes. This board may also revoke or suspend a contractor license when it determines that a licensee has
violated the building codes or licensing rules. In an advisory capacity, the BRB makes recommendations
to City Council concerning the revision of existing codes or the adoption of new building codes and
contractor regulations.
Citizen Review Board
At the request of the City Manager or the Chief of Police the Citizen Review Board makes
recommendations concerning interpretation of police policies and procedures. The Board reviews internal
investigations where a peace officer is alleged to have used force, discharged a firearm, committed a
crime, when a person sustained severe injury, death, or alleged their civil rights were violated by a peace
officer, or other investigations requested by the City Manager or Police Chief. Use of deadly force would
be a mandatory review by the Board even if no complaint is filed. The Citizen Review Board also offers
reviews for outside law enforcement agencies operated within the City and makes annual reports to the
City Council and City Manager concerning activities and recommendations of the Board.
Commission on Disability
The Commission on Disability serves as an advisor to the City of Fort Collins City Council on issues
relating to citizens with disabilities. In its role as an advocate for citizens with disabilities, the Commission
on Disability: develops educational programs to acquaint citizens with issues affecting individuals with
disabilities; forms special committees to review and address particular issues; works together with other
boards and commissions and the City Council to provide recommendations to assure compliance with
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the 1990 Americans with Disability Act (ADA), the Fair
Housing Act and other legislation relating to persons with disabilities; and serves as ombudsman between
City departments, the private business sector and the community of citizens who have disabilities.
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Commission
The CDBG Commission advises the City Council on matters pertaining to the City’s Competitive Process
which includes Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) Community Development Block
Grant Program (CDBG) and HOME Programs and the City’s Affordable Housing Fund. HUD provides
Federal grant funds to the City to meet affordable housing and community development needs of low and
moderate income people. The City receives about $1.5 million from HUD and $500,000 from the General
Fund annually and program funds are typically used for land acquisition, rehabilitation, public facilities and
public services.
Cultural Resources Board
The Cultural Resources Board’s primary function is to advise City Council on issues relating to the Lincoln
Center and the Fort Collins Museum. In addition, the Board reviews applications and makes
recommendations for funding from the City of Fort Collins’ Cultural Development and Programming
Account and Tourism Programming Account (Fort Fund).
Economic Advisory Commission
The duties and functions of the Commission shall be:
(1) To advise the City Council on matters pertaining to the economic health and sustainability
of the city, including, but not limited to, (a) events and trends occurring outside the Fort
Collins community that may affect the local economy; (b) immediate and long-term threats
to the local economy; (c) ways in which to enhance the City's competitive position in
relation to other communities; and (d) possible partnerships with other public and private
entities;
(2) To recommend programs and strategies that may enhance the economic health and
sustainability of the city;
(3) To be aware of and coordinate with other City boards and commissions whose actions
may affect the economic health and sustainability of the City;
(4) To advise Council on existing or proposed policies, practices or regulations of the City
that may affect the local economy; and
(5) To perform other such duties and functions as provided by the City Council.
Energy Board
The City of Fort Collins Electric Board advises the City Council on policy matters pertaining to the
municipal electric system. The Board acts as the final appeal and hearing body for customer complaints,
except as is otherwise provided in Chapter 26, Article XII of the City Code regarding termination of utility
service. It acts as a sounding board to staff for the purpose of identifying the ratepayers’ service delivery
expectations and performs such other duties and functions and has such other powers as may be
provided by ordinance of the City Council.
Golf Board
The Golf Board advises and makes recommendations to the Culture, Parks, Recreation and Environment
Services Unit Executive Director and the City Council as to rules, regulations, policies, administrative and
budgetary matters pertaining to the operation and maintenance of all City-owned golf courses. The Board
advises and makes recommendations to the Director concerning the terms and conditions of any
agreements to be entered into with golf professionals and other concessionaires in connection with
City-owned golf courses, as well as other agreements which may affect the management, operation,
maintenance, construction or acquisition of City-owned golf courses; assists in the procurement of goods
and services for City-owned golf courses, including the selection of golf professionals, concessionaires
and other contractors, as defined; and advises and makes recommendations to the City Manager
concerning approval of annual fees and charges at City-owned golf courses.
Human Relations Commission
The Human Relations Commission was established by City Council to promote the acceptance and
respect for diversity through educational programs and activities, and to discourage all forms of
discrimination based on race, religion, age, gender, disability, etc. The commission often coordinates
these efforts with such groups as the Multicultural Commission and the Women’s Commission. The
commission also oversees the activities of the Citizen Liaison Program, and presents the annual Human
Relations Awards to recognize those citizens who have advanced the cause of human rights through their
volunteer efforts.
Land Conservation and Stewardship Board
The duties and functions of the Board shall be as follows:
(1) To advise City Council regarding policy and budgetary matters pertaining to the Natural
Areas Program, including but not limited to the expenditure of Open Space, Yes! and
Larimer County Help Preserve Open Space dedicated sales tax revenues.
(2) To advise Natural Areas Program staff and the City Council in connection with the
proposed acquisition or disposition of land, interests in land, interests in water
and other interests in real property for the Natural Areas Program.
(3) To advise Natural Areas Program staff regarding the development of management plans
and public improvements for Natural Areas Program properties.
(4) Upon request of the City Manager or at the direction of the City Council, to advise City
Council regarding any positive or negative impacts that particular plans or projects of the
City or of other public or private entities may have on Natural Areas Program properties or
properties that may be of interest to the Natural Areas Program. This provision shall not
apply to development projects for which applications have been submitted to the City for
approval under the Land Use Code.
(5) Upon request of the City Manager or at the direction of the City Council, to advise City
Council in connection with the proposed acquisition or disposition of land, interests in
land, interests in water and other interests in real property for City programs other than
the Natural Areas Program.
Landmark Preservation Commission
The Commission shall perform all duties relating to preservation of historic landmarks as set out in
Chapter 14, including the designation of sites, structures, objects or districts as landmarks and the review
and approval or rejection of plans for the construction, alteration, demolition or relocation of any such site,
structure, object or district. Decisions of the Commission are final unless appealed to the City Council.
The Commission shall also perform the following additional functions:
(1) To promote awareness and understanding of, and appreciation for, the value of historic
resource preservation in contributing to the quality of life in the City, and actively
encourage property owners to voluntarily designate their properties as historic landmarks;
(2) To advise the City Council and City staff with regard to the identification and evaluation of
historic resources within the Growth Management Area and provide information regarding
the significance of the resources, the nature and degree of threat to their preservation,
and methods for their protection;
(3) To advise the City Council and City staff with regard to appropriate policies, incentives
and regulations for encouraging and/or requiring preservation and rehabilitation of historic
resources;
(4) To coordinate with the various other City boards, commissions and City staff members
whose actions may affect the preservation of historic resources in the community; and
(5) To establish a committee of its members to provide advice and, if required under Section
2.10.2(H) of the Land Use Code, written recommendations to the owners of eligible
historic properties, and of properties located near eligible historic properties, regarding
historically appropriate design and site planning for additions, alterations, and new
construction in the City; provided, however, that any members of such committee who
provide such advice or recommendations to property owners under this provision shall
refrain from participating in any subsequent decisions of the Commission related to such
properties; and
(6) To perform such other duties and functions as may be provided by the City Council by
ordinance or resolution.
Natural Resources Advisory Board
The Natural Resources Advisory Board shall have the following functions: (1) to advise the City Council
on all matters pertaining to natural resources and environmental protection issues of concern to the city;
(2) to analyze various natural resources issues and to aid and guide the development of city-wide natural
resources programs to address currently existing and potential natural resources and environmental
issues; (3) to promote citizen participation and public education on city-wide natural resources and
environmental protection issues; (4) to be aware of and coordinate with the various Department of Natural
Resources' technical advisory committees; (5) to perform such other duties and functions and have such
other powers as provided by the City Council.
Parking Advisory Board
The Parking Advisory Board makes recommendations to the City Council regarding the implementation of
the City's parking policies and plans; provides an avenue for ongoing stakeholder input and involvement in
parking decisions that affect the public; supports and advocates for parking initiatives and programs; helps
educate the public about parking issues; works with other boards and commissions of the City or other
community organizations that have an interest in parking issues; and performs such other duties and
functions and have such other powers as provided by the City Council.
Parks and Recreation Board
The Parks and Recreation Board acts as an advisory board and advises and makes recommendations to
Culture, Parks, Recreation and Environment Services Unit and the City Council for their approval as to the
rules, regulations, policies and administrative and budgetary matters pertaining to Parks and Recreation,
excluding matters relating to the operation and maintenance of City-owned golf courses and cemeteries.
The Board assists the City in cooperating with the Poudre R-1 School District and other organizations and
individuals interested in the City's parks and recreation programs.
Planning and Zoning Board
The Planning and Zoning Board's responsibilities include making recommendations to the City Council
regarding zoning, annexations, major public and private projects and any long range planning activities
(such as City Plan or subarea plans) that require Council approval. The Board is also the final decision
making authority regarding land use proposals including overall development plans, project development
plans and any planned unit developments that remain from the City's previous land use regulations. In
addition, the Board coordinates with the Poudre R1 and Thompson school districts and the Larimer
County Planning Commission.
Retirement Committee
The General Employees Retirement Committee’s charges are: manage/administer the Retirement Plan
for members and retirees and manage accumulated Retirement Fund money; determine the
eligibility/credited service of members under Plan rules; interpret the Plan’s provisions; and authorize
payment of retirement benefits and bills for expenses of Plan and Committee. The Committee sets the
policies and procedures for these responsibilities and directs staff personnel and actuarial consulting firm
to carry out the functions. The Committee also: seeks information and advice to benefit the Plan and
members; recommends Plan changes to City Council for approval; recommends to City Council
enhancements to the Plan’s provisions and benefits; educates Committee’s and Plan’s members; keeps
abreast of legislation that could affect the Plan; keeps the members informed of their current/projected
benefits; encourages Plan members to accumulate other sources of retirement income; and provides
minutes of each meeting and files documents as required.
Senior Advisory Board
The Senior Advisory Board is comprised of individuals of all ages who share a concern for the aging
members of our community. The primary objective is to help aging citizens in Fort Collins and the
surrounding area live full and interesting lives so that they might continue to contribute, participate and
share in the life of the community. The Board assumes responsibility for involvement in a network of
senior agencies and organizations so that they can remain aware of issues, needs and occurrences that
may be relevant to their work. Their primary concern is to provide education in this community about the
aging process, to inform and be informed, to advocate for a good quality of life, and to encourage
networking among the various groups who deal with senior issues.
Transportation Board
The Senior Advisory Board is comprised of individuals of all ages who share a concern for the aging
members of our community. The primary objective is to help aging citizens in Fort Collins and the
surrounding area live full and interesting lives so that they might continue to contribute, participate and
share in the life of the community. The Board assumes responsibility for involvement in a network of
senior agencies and organizations so that they can remain aware of issues, needs and occurrences that
may be relevant to their work. Their primary concern is to provide education in this community about the
aging process, to inform and be informed, to advocate for a good quality of life, and to encourage
networking among the various groups who deal with senior issues.
Water Board
The City of Fort Collins Water Board advises the City Council regarding water, wastewater and stormwater
policy issues such as water rights, planning, acquisition and management, conservation and public
education, floodplain regulations, storm drainage and development design criteria. The Board reviews
and makes recommendations on Water, Wastewater and Stormwater Utilities budgets, fees, water quality
and local, state and federal water legislation. At times, the Board acts as a quasi-judicial body on
floodplain regulation variances. It cooperates with regional entities to coordinate planning and maintain a
dialogue on regional water issues. The Board is also involved in master planning and provides advice and
citizen input regarding proposed policies and actions affecting Utilities customers.
Women’s Commission
The Commission is created for the purpose of enhancing the status of and opportunities for all women in
the City. The Commission shall have the ability to:
(1) Document issues of importance to the status of women in the City;
(2) Conduct educational programs in the Fort Collins community to increase public
awareness and sensitivity to the needs and capabilities of all women;
(3) Cooperate with other organizations and individuals interested in issues affecting women in
the Fort Collins area;
(4) Review proposed legislation, policy changes or other governmental action at the federal,
state or local level that would enhance or otherwise affect the status of women in the City
and make recommendations to the City Council regarding the same.
(5) Recommend to the City Council the adoption of local legislation or policies that would
enhance the status of women in the City.
Youth Advisory Board
The Youth Advisory Board gathers information from local youth, other groups, organizations and agencies
regarding youth-oriented issues and makes recommendations to City Council in reference to these issues.
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of appeals has the authority to approve variances from the requirements of the Land
Use Code and to hear and decide appeals from any decision made by an administrative official pertaining
to a specific property. The Board may grant variances when the members determine that there is some
unusual feature of a property or some other exceptional situation unique to a property which creates an
unfair burden to the applicant. Such features may include physical conditions like exceptional narrowness,
shallowness, or topography. Additionally, the Board may grant a variance upon finding that the proposal
will promote the general purpose of the standard for which the variance is requested equally well or better
than would a proposal which complies with the standard for which the variance is requested. No variance
can be granted which is determined to be a substantial detriment to the public good.