HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - Mail Packet - 12/1/2020 - Urban Renewal Authority (Ura) Board Meeting Agenda - November 30, 2020City of Fort Collins Page 1
Wade Troxell, Chair Council Information Center
Susan Gutowsky City Hall West
Julie Pignataro 300 LaPorte Avenue
Ken Summers Fort Collins, Colorado
Kristin Stephens
Emily Gorgol
Ross Cunniff Cablecast on City Cable Channel 14
Steve Johnson and Channel 881 on the Comcast cable system
Christophe Febvre
Joe Wise
Andy Smith
Caitlin Quander Darin Atteberry Delynn Coldiron
Brownstein Hyatt Farber Shreck Executive Director Secretary
The City of Fort Collins will make reasonable accommodations for access to City services, programs, and activities
and will make special communication arrangements for persons with disabilities. Please call 221-6515 (V/TDD: Dial
711 for Relay Colorado) for assistance.
URBAN RENEWAL AUTHORITY BOARD
MEETING
November 30, 2020 5:00 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
• CALL MEETING TO ORDER
• ROLL CALL
• AGENDA REVIEW
• Executive Director’s Review of Agenda.
• Consent Calendar Review.
This Review provides an opportunity for the Board and citizens to pull items from the Consent
Calendar. Anyone may request an item on this Calendar be “pulled” off the Consent Calendar
and considered separately.
◦ Board-pulled Consent Calendar items will be considered before the Discussion items.
◦ Citizen-pulled Consent Calendar items will be considered after the Discussion items.
City of Fort Collins Page 2
• CITIZEN PARTICIPATION
Individuals who wish to make comments regarding items remaining on the Consent Calendar or wish
to address the Board on items not specifically scheduled on the agenda must first be recognized by the
Chair or Vice Chair. Before speaking, please sign in at the table in the back of the room. The
timer will buzz once when there are 30 seconds left and the light will turn yellow. The timer will buzz
again at the end of the speaker’s time. Each speaker is allowed 3 minutes. If there are more than 6
individuals who wish to speak, the Chairperson may reduce the time allowed for each individual.
• State your name and address for the record.
• Applause, outbursts or other demonstrations by the audience are not allowed
• Keep comments brief; if available, provide a written copy of statement to Secretary
• Address your comments to Council, not the audience
• CITIZEN PARTICIPATION FOLLOW-UP
• COMMISSIONER REPORTS
Discussion Items
The method of debate for discussion items is as follows:
● Chair introduces the item number and subject; asks if formal presentation will be made by
staff
● Staff and/or Applicant presentation (optional)
● Chair requests citizen comment on the item (three-minute limit for each citizen)
● Board questions of staff on the item
● Board motion on the item
● Board discussion
● Final Board comments
● Board vote on the item
Note: Time limits for individual agenda items may be revised, at the discretion of the Chair, to ensure
all citizens have an opportunity to speak. Please sign in at the table in the back of the room.
The timer will buzz when there are 30 seconds left and the light will turn yellow. It will buzz again
at the end of the speaker’s time.
1. Consideration and Approval of the Minutes of the October 22, 2020 Urban Renewal Authority Board
Meeting.
The purpose of this item is to approve the minutes of the October 22, 2020 Urban Renewal Authority
Board Meeting.
2. Resolution No. 111 of the Board of Commissioners of the Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority
Approving the North College Community Investment Plan.
The purpose of this item is to consider a resolution adopting the North College Community
Investment Plan. Staff collaborated with Institute for the Built Environment (IBE) and The Family
Center/La Familia (TFC/LF) on a series of public workshops asking the North College community
how they would like to see the Urban Renewal Authority (URA) invest its money in the North College
area over the next 10 years. IBE produced a report summarizing this outreach that the URA Board
considered in August 2020.
City of Fort Collins Page 3
To achieve the outcomes desired by the community, URA staff have been developing an investment
plan that will guide the Authority’s decision-making process related to allocation of its remaining
funds in the North College plan area. This plan utilizes the Government Alliance on Race & Equity
(GARE) Equitable Development Framework to anchor the plan. The framework will help ensure
North College continues its growth as an economically vibrant community while ensuring area
residents share in this growth. The investment plan will be organized by outcome area like those
identified in the IBE report. These outcomes are:
• Complete, vibrant neighborhood
• Community hub
• Infrastructure improvements
The investment plan contains short, medium, and long-term strategies by outcome area. Staff have
proposed a set of strategies for each outcome area by timeframe. These strategies will guide the
URA’s investment decisions. The plan area should accrue $13.8 million in cash by 2030 that the
URA Board can invest. The plan contains a recommended allocation of URA revenues by time frame
for each outcome. A series of metrics and indicators will help the URA track its progress and the
objectives of the plan to adjust course if necessary.
3. Resolution No. 110 of the Board of Commissioners of the Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority
Approving Its Amended Strategic Plan.
The purpose of this item is to consider adoption of a Resolution amending the Urban Renewal
Authority Strategic Plan.
• OTHER BUSINESS
• ADJOURNMENT
Agenda Item 1
Item # 1 Page 1
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY November 30, 2020
Urban Renewal Authority Board
STAFF
Delynn Coldiron, City Clerk
SUBJECT
Consideration and Approval of the Minutes of the October 22, 2020 Urban Renewal Authority Board Meeting.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this item is to approve the minutes of the October 22, 2020 Urban Renewal Authority Board
Meeting.
ATTACHMENTS
1. October 22, 2020 (PDF)
1
Packet Pg. 4
City of Fort Collins Page 397
URBAN RENEWAL AUTHORITY BOARD
October 22, 2020
5:00 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
• ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Smith, Troxell, Cunniff, Stephens, Summers, Wise, Febvre, Gutowsky, Pignataro, Gorgol
ABSENT: Johnson
STAFF: Atteberry, Gula-Yeast, Birks, Frickey
• AGENDA REVIEW
Executive Director Atteberry reviewed the meeting agenda and noted the URA's legal counsel is
not present at this meeting.
Chair Troxell outlined the remote citizen participation options.
1. Consideration and Approval of the Minutes of the September 24, 2020 Urban Renewal Authority
Board Meeting. (Adopted)
The purpose of this item is to approve the minutes of the September 24, 2020 Urban Renewal Authority
Board Meeting.
Vice Chair Cunniff made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Pignataro, to approve the minutes
of the September 24, 2020 Urban Renewal Authority Board meeting.
RESULT: MOTION ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Ross Cunniff, District 5
SECONDER: Julie Pignataro, District 2
AYES: Smith, Troxell, Cunniff, Stephens, Summers, Wise, Febvre, Gutowsky, Pignataro,
Gorgol
ABSENT: Johnson
2. Public Hearing and Resolution No. 109 Adopting the 2021 Budget for the Fort Collins Urban
Renewal Authority. (Adopted)
The purpose of this item is to consider a Resolution adopting the 2021 Budget for the Urban Renewal
Authority.
Clay Frickey, Redevelopment Program Manager, noted the URA budget aligns with the City's
Budgeting for Outcome process and the 2021 budget will be a single-year budget due to the
COVID-19 pandemic. The two budget offers from the URA were outlined: the core offer which
covers day-to-day operations and the debt service offer which includes debt service costs related
to ongoing projects. He discussed the revenue forecast for 2021.
Chair Troxell noted this is a public hearing.
Commissioner Wise made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Stephens, to adopt Resolution
No. 109.
1.1
Packet Pg. 5 Attachment: October 22, 2020 (9726 : Minutes 10-22)
October 22, 2020
City of Fort Collins Page 398
RESULT: RESOLUTION NO. 109, ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Joe Wise
SECONDER: Kristin Stephens, District 4
AYES: Smith, Troxell, Cunniff, Stephens, Summers, Wise, Febvre, Gutowsky, Pignataro,
Gorgol
ABSENT: Johnson
3. North College Community Investment Plan. (No Action Taken)
The purpose of this item is to discuss the strategies and framework of the proposed North College
Community Investment Plan. Staff collaborated with Institute for the Built Environment (IBE) and The
Family Center/La Familia (TFC/LF) on a series of public workshops asking the North College
community how they would like to see the Urban Renewal Authority (URA) invest its money in the
North College plan area over the next ten years. IBE produced a report summarizing this outreach that
the URA Board considered in August 2020. To achieve the outcomes desired by the community, URA
staff have been developing an investment plan that will guide the URA’s decision-making process for
how to allocate its remaining money in the North College plan area. The investment plan will be
organized by outcome area similar to those identified in the IBE report. These outcomes are:
• Complete, vibrant neighborhood
• Community hub
• Infrastructure improvements
The investment plan will contain short, medium, and long-term strategies by outcome area. Staff have
proposed a set of strategies for each outcome area by timeframe. These strategies will guide the URA’s
investment decisions. The plan area should accrue $13.8 million in cash by 2030 that the URA Board can
invest. The URA Board will consider a final investment plan in November that will contain recommended
financial allocations, alignment with other plans, and metrics/indicators.
Clay Frickey, Redevelopment Program Manager, stated this is an update regarding the North
College Community Investment Plan. He reviewed the community engagement process and its
outcomes and stated the resulting Community Investment Plan will provide guidance to the Board
on how it should invest its remaining tax increment revenue for the North College Plan Area. He
discussed the proposed structure of the Plan stating it will include an overview of the public
engagement report, define the community priorities from the engagement report, show the
alignment between this Plan, other adopted plans within the City and other taxing entities, identify
investments by timeframe, and recommend a fund allocation.
Frickey detailed the outcomes from the community engagement process: a complete and vibrant
neighborhood, a community hub, and infrastructure improvements. He noted the wording around
the community hub has changed to make it more inclusive while maintaining a focus on the Latinx
community. He also noted the priority around connectivity and recreation has b een folded into
infrastructure improvements and the complete and vibrant neighborhood categories.
Frickey outlined proposed short-, medium-, and long-term strategies for meeting each of the
outcomes and discussed the amount of revenue that will be available in each timeframe.
Commissioner Summers asked who was involved in the public outreach process. Frickey replied
there were about 30 participants from the La Familia/Family Center outreach, predominantly
residents of mobile home communities, and about 20 participants in the Institute for the Built
Environment workshop groups, including residents of Old Town North and Revive and members
of the North Fort Collins Business Association among others.
1.1
Packet Pg. 6 Attachment: October 22, 2020 (9726 : Minutes 10-22)
October 22, 2020
City of Fort Collins Page 399
Commissioner Gutowsky requested some clarification around the need for the Investment Plan.
Frickey replied the idea is to ensure the community is assured of the firm commitment of the URA
to carry out the priorities identified in the public outreach process. He also stated modifications
can continue over time as priorities are likely to change over the next ten years.
Commissioner Gorgol asked about stormwater improvements and the extension of Mason Street
going through the North College Mobile Home Park. Frickey replied the Master Street Plan does
propose Mason Street going through that community; however, the stormwater project is south of
Hickory to the river. He stated displacement of residents would not fit in with the goals or values
of the Board or staff; therefore, many discussions will need to occur, and answers will evolve over
time.
Commissioner Gorgol suggested the inclusion of an equitable development framework within the
Investment Plan to help prevent displacement. She commented on looking at the broader context
of creating access to opportunities for economic mobility for people who have historically not had
that access and supported looking at business support more holistically. She asked about the pilot
programs for the community hub. Frickey concurred with the holistic view of business support
which is highlighted in the report. He also noted some statements around an equitable development
framework could be included. Regarding the community hub pilot programs, partners would
mainly be running the programs with some financial support from the URA and those programs
would allow for testing of some ideas for the community hub prior to its actual construction.
Commissioner Stephens commended the overall Plan and inclusion of short-term strategies. She
also commended the citizen participation stating it will make the North College area more livable
and vibrant. She agreed with Commissioner Gorgol’s anti-displacement strategies and
commended the public outreach as being a model for future processes.
Commissioner Febvre commended the work to this point, agreeing with the inclusion of anti-
displacement strategies. He suggested there may be an opportunity to tweak language just a bit
from the perspective of Poudre School District related to internet connectivity and providing a
place for supervised, before- and after-school activities. Chair Troxell agreed. Frickey noted
several school-age children attended the workshops and had similar ideas.
Commissioner Smith commended the Plan and commented on affordable housing needs and
increased development fees. He suggested looking at fee reimbursement opportunities as a
possible strategy. He also suggested a build-out analysis based on current zoning and allowed
densities could be helpful to ensure uses make sense. He agreed stormwater infrastructure is an
important investment but also cited the importance of walkability in the area.
Commissioner Gorgol agreed with Commissioner Febvre's idea about including an educational
component at the community hub. She also agreed thinking creatively about connectivity will be
important. She asked if there is a tenant interested in the Albertson's space. Frickey replied in the
affirmative.
Commissioner Summers asked if the URA is involved in providing programs. Frickey replied that
is not the case traditionally and stated whatever investments are made by the URA should be to
remediate blight or prevent its further spread. He stated other communities have invested in
programs, but any investment would need to ensure compliance with statutory requirements.
1.1
Packet Pg. 7 Attachment: October 22, 2020 (9726 : Minutes 10-22)
October 22, 2020
City of Fort Collins Page 400
Commissioner Summers asked if there are existing programs throughout the city that aid in
tutoring and after-school programming. Commissioner Febvre replied there are several programs
available around the city and clarified his comments were meant to encourage URA financial
support of infrastructure that supports those programs.
Commissioner Wise expressed support for the community hub idea, particularly given the citizen
support. He questioned whether the URA is wise to earmark a portion of its limited funds for
stormwater infrastructure improvements when the cost of a community hub is unknown.
Chair Troxell stated the public involvement workshops focused on a subarea of this plan area and
stated the desired outcomes should enhance the entire plan area. He asked if residents of Old Town
North and The Cottages as well as newer businesses in the area were included as part of the
outreach. Frickey replied residents of Old Town North were part of the focus groups as were
businesses on both sides of College from older and newer businesses.
Chair Troxell suggested the community hub does not have to be a singular place and encouraged
additional discussions around partnerships with organizations such as Salud and the County. Josh
Birks, Economic Health and Redevelopment Director, stated this is a unique opportunity for the
URA to be a leader and convener in terms of identifying needs and bringing in partners that can
help deliver outcomes. He noted this is a strategy document and there will be a great deal of future
work on the community hub concept and partnering opportunities.
Chair Troxell commented on making enhanced stormwater elements that add to community
livability and Nature in the City.
Frickey noted staff will be bringing this item back before the Board for final adoption in November
and will be seeking appropriations for some short-term items in January. He stated a plan for
ongoing community outreach and an equitable development framework will be included.
Chair Troxell stated a triple bottom line analysis is important.
4. Resolution No. 110 of the Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority Approving Its Amended
Strategic Plan. (Postponed to Date Certain)
The purpose of this item is to consider a Resolution to amend the Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority
Strategic Plan.
Clay Frickey, Redevelopment Program Manager, stated the URA adopted its Strategic Plan in
September and this item makes a few adjustments per that discussion. A statement regarding 'who
we are' as an organization, some clarity around the definition of a taxing entity, and further
information around the alignment of the URA's investments with the capital investments of other
organizations have been included. Frickey detailed the proposed changes and stated staff is
recommending adoption of the proposed changes.
Vice Chair Cunniff expressed concern regarding the 'who we are' statement noting most of the
organizations' purposes are not directly related to the purpose of Fort Collins. He suggested a
wording change for that section but otherwise commended the changes.
Commissioner Pignataro suggested there may need to be some changes to the 'who we are' section
as well and agreed with Vice Chair Cunniff's wording.
1.1
Packet Pg. 8 Attachment: October 22, 2020 (9726 : Minutes 10-22)
October 22, 2020
City of Fort Collins Page 401
Commissioner Wise agreed with both Commissioners.
Commissioner Febvre suggested other wording changes that specify the duties of the URA Board,
which involve discussing tax increment financing to maximize benefits for the community.
Vice Chair Cunniff proposed specific new language for the purpose statement and Commissioners
and staff discussed the wording.
Frickey suggested the possibility of using the suggestions and postponing the item to next month.
Vice Chair Cunniff made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Stephens, to postpone
consideration of Resolution No. 110 to the November 30, 2020 Urban Renewal Authority Board
meeting.
RESULT: POSTPONED TO NOVEMBER 30, 2020 [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Ross Cunniff, District 5
SECONDER: Kristin Stephens, District 4
AYES: Smith, Troxell, Cunniff, Stephens, Summers, Wise, Febvre, Gutowsky, Pignataro,
Gorgol
ABSENT: Johnson
• ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 6:45 PM.
________________________________
Chair
ATTEST:
________________________________
Secretary
1.1
Packet Pg. 9 Attachment: October 22, 2020 (9726 : Minutes 10-22)
Agenda Item 2
Item # 2 Page 1
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY November 30, 2020
Urban Renewal Authority Board
STAFF
Clay Frickey, Redevelopment Program Manager
SUBJECT
Resolution No. 111 of the Board of Commissioners of the Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority Approving the
North College Community Investment Plan.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this item is to consider a resolution adopting the North College Community Investment Plan.
Staff collaborated with Institute for the Built Environment (IBE) and The Family Center/La Familia (TFC/LF) on
a series of public workshops asking the North College community how they would like to see the Urban
Renewal Authority (URA) invest its money in the North College area over the next 10 years. IBE produced a
report summarizing this outreach that the URA Board considered in August 2020.
To achieve the outcomes desired by the community, URA staff have been developing an investment plan that
will guide the Authority’s decision-making process related to allocation of its remaining funds in the North
College plan area. This plan utilizes the Government Alliance on Race & Equity (GARE) Equitable
Development Framework to anchor the plan. The framework will help ensure North College continues its
growth as an economically vibrant community while ensuring area residents share in this growth. The
investment plan will be organized by outcome area like those identified in the IBE report. These outcomes are:
• Complete, vibrant neighborhood
• Community hub
• Infrastructure improvements
The investment plan contains short, medium, and long-term strategies by outcome area. Staff have proposed a
set of strategies for each outcome area by timeframe. These strategies will guide the URA’s investment
decisions. The plan area should accrue $13.8 million in cash by 2030 that the URA Board can invest. The plan
contains a recommended allocation of URA revenues by time frame for each outcome. A series of metrics and
indicators will help the URA track its progress and the objectives of the plan to adjust course if necessary.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends approval of the Resolution.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION
The North College Urban Renewal Plan Area will generate tax increment revenue until 2029. Staff enlisted the
help of Economic Planning Systems to conduct an analysis of the plan area in 2018. This analysis looked at the
development potential of the plan area and made a series of recommendations on how to maximize the
investment of the URA. After, staff looked to build on this analysis with the perspectives, direction, and insight of
the North College community. In partnership with Institute for the Built Environment (IBE) and The Family
Center/La Familia (TFC/LF), staff held a series of public workshops on how the URA could best invest in the
community over the next 10 years. IBE produced a report summarizing the findings of these workshops which
was presented to the Board on August 27, 2020. The Board expressed its appreciation for the findings of the
workshop series and directed staff to create an investment plan. This investment plan would guide the actions of
2
Packet Pg. 10
Agenda Item 2
Item # 2 Page 2
the URA for the North College Plan Area over the next 10 years. The URA investment plan would align with the
desires of the community, the URA strategic plan, and goals and objectives of all taxing entities (the City, Larimer
County, Poudre School District, etc.).
INVESTMENT PLAN OVERVIEW
The investment plan is organized around the major themes identified by the community and articulated in the IBE
report. These themes are:
● Complete, Vibrant Neighborhood
● Community Hub
● Infrastructure Improvements
The IBE report also identifies a community priority around Recreation & Connectivity. Recreation projects would
support the creation of a complete, vibrant neighborhood and are incorporated into that theme. Connectivity
opportunities would require investment in infrastructure and folds neatly into the priority for infrastructure
improvements.
Complete, Vibrant Neighborhood
A complete, vibrant neighborhood is one where community members can complete most of their day-to-day
tasks without having to leave the neighborhood. Workshop participants identified several amenities that would
make North College a more complete neighborhood. Some of these amenities include:
● More small business opportunities
● Affordable housing
● Food and entertainment
● Professional development and education opportunities
● Affordable childcare
● A library branch
By investing in these amenities, the URA will promote context sensitive investment and economic opportunities
for businesses and residents of the plan area.
Community Hub
Various community members have noted that North College lacks a focal point. Latinx community members
feel an acute need for a community gathering place. Outside of the Northside Aztlan Community Center, there
are few locations on the northside of Fort Collins that provide a space for community members to get together.
There are also few cultural and educational amenities in the plan area. Workshop participants developed the
idea of a community hub that could bring these amenities together in one location with the potential of
additional development that would become the focal point of North College. The community hub would be
something available and open to all. While the community hub would serve anyone, the community hub should
also address unmet needs of the Latinx community.
For the community hub to be successful, the community must lead in designing the hub, with a particular focus
on elevating the voices of the Latinx community. The URA will act as a convener at first to bring together
stakeholders. Once the community has designed the community hub, the URA can act as a financial partner to
help bring the community hub to fruition.
2
Packet Pg. 11
Agenda Item 2
Item # 2 Page 3
Infrastructure Improvements
One of the focus areas of the North College Corridor Plan from 2007 and adoption of the North College Urban
Renewal Plan was addressing infrastructure deficiencies throughout the North College corridor. In 2010,
Council adopted the North College Infrastructure Funding Plan to guide implementation of infrastructure
improvements within the plan area, estimated costs, funding sources, and priority levels for each project. This
document has successfully guided tens of millions of dollars in public infrastructure investment in the corridor.
A handful of projects identified in the Infrastructure Funding Plan remain unbuilt and will form the foundation of
the Board’s investment in infrastructure.
Recommended Revenue Allocation and Strategies
The North College plan area is generating surplus tax increment revenue every year. After servicing debt and
contributing to overhead costs, the North College plan area will generate around $650,000 in net proceeds
annually from 2020 - 2022. In 2022 and 2023, the plan area will generate around $750,000 annually as the
URA makes its final payments for Aspen Heights. From 2024 until 2030, the plan area will generate over $1
million annually leaving an anticipated final cash balance of $13.7 million in 2030. Below is the recommended
allocation of revenues by time frame and outcome. The table also contains each of the proposed strategies by
timeframe. The plan elaborates on each strategy, providing direction on how to accomplish each strategy.
Complete, Vibrant
Neighborhood
Community Hub Infrastructure
Improvements
Short Term 2021 -
2022
Cultivate partnerships
Small business support
Community based
design process
Continue existing
projects
Medium Term 2023 -
2024
Pilot community hub
programs
Forge development
partnerships
Complete existing
projects
Long Term 2025 and
beyond
Acquire property
Repayments fund
community objectives
Develop community
hub
Fund legacy projects
Total Allocation 25% 50% 25%
The allocations presented above represent a balanced approach to investment. All three objectives will act in
concert to achieve the objectives from our community engagement and the GARE Equitable Development
Framework while meeting statutory requirements to remediate blight and prevent its further spread.
Infrastructure improvements will honor previous investments made by the URA, help generate economic
opportunity for area residents and businesses, and enhance mobility and connectivity for all community
members. Developing a complete, vibrant neighborhood and a community hub will support development that
addresses the unique needs of the North College area in a culturally attuned way.
Recommended Revenue Allocation by Timeframe
The allocations above indicate the rough proportion of the URA’s revenues that should go to each community
objective. Another important consideration is when to invest in each objective. Infrastructure investment could
lead to redevelopment that increases the tax base and provides additional revenue for the URA to spend on its
objectives. It is also important to retain enough tax increment revenue to support potential redevelopment and
the community hub. The table below provides guidance on how to spend tax increment within each timeframe.
Short Term 2021 -
2022
Medium Term
2023 - 2024
Long Term 2025
and beyond
Total
Complete, Vibrant
Neighborhood
10% or $238,849 25% or $424,480 30% or $2,914,064 $3,577,393
Community Hub 10% or $238,849 25% or $424,481 60% or $5,828,127 $6,491,457
Infrastructure
Improvements
80% or $1,910,791 50% or $848,961 10% or $971,355 $3,731,107
Total $2,388,489 $1,697,922 $9,713,546 $13,799,957
2
Packet Pg. 12
Agenda Item 2
Item # 2 Page 4
The investment plan does not make a recommendation on how to finance these improvements. Financing
decisions are at the discretion of the URA Board. At such time projects are ready for consideration by the
Board, the Board may consider a variety of financing options. The investment plan keeps these financing
options open so that the Board may have as many tools available to it as possible.
URA Finance Committee Feedback
The URA Finance Committee discussed the North College Community Investment Plan at its October 8, 2020
and November 12, 2020 meetings. Committee members discussed the following:
● Changing the wording for the Complete, Vibrant Neighborhood long term strategy. They were concerned
the term “mixed-use” is jargon and not easy to understand for the average person.
● Committee members generally prefer using a pay as you go approach to financing projects.
● Committee members would like all financing options available to the Board so that they can ma ke the best
decision possible at such time projects come before the Board for approval.
● The Committee expressed a preference for the Board having discretion over repayment waiver requests
similar to the way the Board decides on tax increment financing (TIF) assistance requests.
To address the feedback, staff removed “mixed-use” from the Complete, Vibrant Neighborhood strategy,
clarified the sections related to financing projects and included language to allow flexibility with financing
options as projects come before the Board for approval. The repayment section now explains waivers will go
before the Board for approval similar to TIF assistance requests.
NEXT STEPS
Staff will present a budget appropriation in January 2021 to begin work on the short-term strategies outlined in this
investment plan.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Powerpoint Presentation (PDF)
2
Packet Pg. 13
November 30, 2020
North College Community
Investment Plan
ATTACHMENT 1 2.1
Packet Pg. 14 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9675 : North College Investment Plan)
What is the Community Investment Plan?
•Guides URA’s investment in North College
•Not binding
•Can be altered
•Community driven
•Rooted in equity
•GARE Equitable Development Framework
2
2.1
Packet Pg. 15 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9675 : North College Investment Plan)
Investment Plan Process
2018
•Economic Planning Systems analysis
2019
•Economic Planning Systems report
•Community workshop series begins
2020
•Workshop series completed
•Engagement report completed
•Adoption of Community Investment Plan
3
2.1
Packet Pg. 16 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9675 : North College Investment Plan)
Outcomes in Community Investment Plan
4
COMPLETE & VIBRANT
NEIGHBORHOOD
COMMUNITY HUB INFRASTRUCTURE
IMPROVEMENTS
2.1
Packet Pg. 17 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9675 : North College Investment Plan)
Overall Allocation
Complete, Vibrant
Neighborhood Community Hub Infrastructure
Improvements
Short Term
2021 -2022
Cultivate partnerships
Small business support
Community based design
process
Continue existing
projects
Medium Term
2023 -2024
Pilot community hub
programs
Forge development
partnerships
Complete existing
projects
Long Term
2025 and beyond
Acquire property
Repayments fund
community objectives
Develop community hub Fund legacy projects
To tal Allocation 25%50%25%
5
2.1
Packet Pg. 18 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9675 : North College Investment Plan)
Allocation by Timeframe
Short Term
2021 -2022
Medium Term
2023 -2024
Long Term
2025 and beyond
To tal
Complete, Vibrant
Neighborhood
10%
$238,849
25%
$424,480
30%
$2,914,064 $3,577,393
Community Hub
10%
$238,849
25%
$424,481
60%
$5,828,127 $6,491,457
Infrastructure
Improvements
80%
$1,910,791
50%
$848,961
10%
$971,355 $3,731,107
To tal $2,388,489 $1,697,922 $9,713,546 $13,799,957
6
2.1
Packet Pg. 19 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9675 : North College Investment Plan)
Metrics and Indicators
Metric/Indicator Data Source Ta rget
Leverage rate URA Increase or maintain
historic leverage rate
Property values County Assessor Stable growth
Property ownership County Assessor Va ried ownership, few
properties owned by LLCs
that own 3+ properties
Residential rents Department of Local Affairs Stabilize rents
Business rents CoStar Stabilize rents
Household income HUD, American
Community Survey
Stable growth
Cost burdened
households
American Community
Survey
Decrease percentage of
households that are cost
burdened
Residential building
permits issued
City of Fort Collins Mix of unit types that
match community needs
Households by race American Community
Survey
Prevent displacement of
Latinx community 7
2.1
Packet Pg. 20 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9675 : North College Investment Plan)
Recommendation
Staff recommends approval of the resolution adopting the North
College Community Investment Plan
8
2.1
Packet Pg. 21 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9675 : North College Investment Plan)
-1-
RESOLUTION 2020-111
OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE
FORT COLLINS URBAN RENEWAL AUTHORITY
APPROVING THE NORTH COLLEGE COMMUNITY INVESTMENT PLAN
WHEREAS, the Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority (the “Authority”) was established
in 1982 under and in accordance with the Colorado Revised Statutes (“C.R.S.”) § 31-25-101, et
seq. (the “Urban Renewal Law”); and
WHEREAS, the Authority is authorized by C.R.S. § 31-25-105(1)(a) to make and adopt
bylaws, orders, rules, and regulations to effectuate the purposes of the Urban Renewal Law; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Fort Collins, Colorado, by Resolution No.
2004-152 approved and adopted on December 21, 2004, the “North College Urban Renewal
Plan” as an urban renewal plan under the Urban Renewal Law for the area described therein (the
“North College Plan Area”); and
WHEREAS, to further infrastructure improvements and foster the creation of a complete
and vibrant neighborhood and community hub in the North College Plan Area in alignment with
the purposes of the North College Urban Renewal Plan, the Commissioners of the Authority
have considered approval of an investment plan for the remaining tax increment revenue for the
North College Plan Area; and
WHEREAS, the North College Community Investment Plan, attached hereto and
incorporated herein as Exhibit A, is an advisory document which defines community priorities
that are of particular importance to the Authority to guide its mission and further its purposes
under the North College Urban Renewal Plan, identifies potential capital investments by
timeframe, and recommends methods for allocation of monies; and
WHEREAS, the Commissioners have determined that it is in the best interests of the
Authority that the North College Community Investment Plan be approved.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
OF THE FORT COLLINS URBAN RENEWAL AUTHORITY:
Section 1. The foregoing Recitals are incorporated herein by this reference.
Section 2. The attached North College Community Investment Plan is hereby
approved.
Section 3. This Resolution shall be effective upon approval by the Authority.
Packet Pg. 22
-2-
Passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the Board of Commissioners of the City of
Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority this 30th day of November, A.D. 2020.
_________________________________
Chair
ATTEST:
_____________________________
Secretary
Packet Pg. 23
Introduction
The Community Investment Plan for North College is the culmination of years’ worth of study
and engagement on the North College Urban Renewal Plan Area. This plan unites a data
driven, analytical approach to redevelopment and the lived experience of commun ity members
and what they would like to see the plan area become in the future. This document is a guide for
the Urban Renewal Authority Board’s investment decisions in the plan area.
Analysis and Engagement
In 2018, staff worked with Economic Planning Systems (EPS) on identifying the best
opportunities for investment within the plan area. EPS analyzed the real estate market for the
plan area to determine what kinds of development are most likely in the plan area. EPS then
also analyzed the development potential of six districts within the plan area. Three focus areas
for investment emerged based on EPS’s analysis of market demand and development potential.
EPS’s report provides guidance for each focus area. The EPS report concludes with three
overarching recommendations for the plan area:
1.The URA should take a more proactive role in land assembly of vacant and underutilized
parcels into larger and more efficient development sites.
2.The City should consider land banking property suitable for affordable housing within the
North College Plan Area.
3.The URA should consider establishing and funding a retail building improvement
program.
A series of community workshops followed EPS’s analysis to gain a better understanding of
what the North College community would like to see the URA invest in over the next ten years.
2018 •Economic Planning Systems analysis
2019
•Economic Planning Systems report
•Community workshop series begins
2020
•Workshop series completed
•Engagement report completed
•Adoption of Community Investment Plan
EXHIBIT A A
Packet Pg. 24 Attachment: Exhibit A (9724 : North College Investment Plan RES)
Over the course of a year, staff worked with the Institute for the Built Environment (IBE) and The
Family Center/La Familia (TFC/LF) on a series of workshops to better understand how the URA
can invest in ways to better the North College community. IBE’s engagement consisted of six
workshops with participants representing neighborhoods, businesses, service providers, City
staff, and others. TFC/LF engaged with mobile home park residents and consisted of three
workshops. Nearly 60 community members participated in this process between the two groups.
Overarching themes both groups identified included:
• Increase vibrancy through maintaining and adding services and amenities that the
community wants.
• Enhance and celebrate cultural needs and opportunities, including artistic expression.
• Increase access to a variety of recreation options.
From this, IBE produced a report synthesizing the findings of both series of workshops. The
report highlights four key areas of investment. These four categories of investment are:
1. Complete, vibrant neighborhood
2. Latinx community hub
3. Stormwater improvements
4. Recreation and connectivity
Appendix A contains a detailed overview of IBE’s findings and recommendations.
Equitable Development Framework
North College is the one of the most diverse areas of Fort Collins. Since the beginning,
immigrants have called the neighborhoods north of the Poudre River home. Immigrants flocked
to the area north of the river to work on sugar beet farms and at the Great Western Sugar Beet
Company factory. Today, North College is home to a large Latinx community. According to the
American Community Survey, 5,188 people live in the North College corridor. 2,288 of these
people identify as being Hispanic/Latino, making up 44% of the population in the North College
corridor. People who identify as being Latinx make up 13% of the City's population. This high
concentration of Latinx households is unique in Fort Collins and thus requires an approach to
community building and investment that is uniquely tailored to this community.
Communities north of the river were the last to receive services from the City. The industrial
heritage of the North College community has also led to inequitable health outcomes. Our
highest priority areas in Fort Collins for increased health equity are North College and the East
Mulberry corridor according to the City Plan Trends & Forces Report. Hispanic/Latino
households earn less money and are more likely to be in poverty than the av erage household in
Fort Collins according to American Community Survey data. This confluence of factors means
investment must also focus on equitably building community so that race ceases to be a
predictor of economic and health outcomes.
The URA has guiding principles of inclusion and co-creating plans with the community. The
Government Alliance on Race & Equity (GARE) developed a framework for equitable
development to address situations like the one on North College. The GARE Equitable
Development Framework consists of the following elements:
1. Advance economic opportunity
A
Packet Pg. 25 Attachment: Exhibit A (9724 : North College Investment Plan RES)
2. Prevent displacement
3. Preserve and expand affordable housing options
4. Understand and respond to local context
5. Promote broader mobility and connectivity
6. Practice meaningful community engagement
7. Develop healthy and safe communities
8. Promote environmental justice
9. Achieve full accessibility
This framework serves as a guide for this investment plan and ensures the work of the URA is
rooted in equity, leading with race.
A
Packet Pg. 26 Attachment: Exhibit A (9724 : North College Investment Plan RES)
Investment Plan
Complete, Vibrant Neighborhood
A complete, vibrant neighborhood is one where community members can complete most of their
day-to-day tasks without having to leave the neighborhood. Workshop participants identified
several amenities that would make North College a more complete neighborhood. Some of
these amenities include:
• More small business opportunities
• Affordable housing
• Food and entertainment
• Professional development and education opportunities
• Affordable childcare
• A library branch
By investing in these amenities, the URA will promote context sensitive investment and
economic opportunities for businesses and residents of the plan area.
Short Term Strategies
Cultivate partnerships
The URA will act as a convener of community members, developers, representatives from all
taxing entities (City, County, School District, Library District, etc.), and others. This will be an
opportunity for all stakeholders to develop a shared vision for specific kinds of development that
will help make North College a more complete, vibrant neighborhood. Staff will look to other
communities that have had success in community led development and apply lessons these
communities have learned to the work on North College.
Small business support
Many small businesses are struggling amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The URA could build
upon the grant programs offered by the City as part of the CARES Act. This would allow the
URA to help stabilize small businesses until the end of the pandemic.
A
Packet Pg. 27 Attachment: Exhibit A (9724 : North College Investment Plan RES)
Medium Term Strategy
Identify & Pilot community hub programs
In the medium term, community partners can work with the URA on identifying and piloting
programs that would be integrated into a future community hub. This would provide services
desired by the community and present an opportunity to test services in a cost-effective way.
Pilot programs would also provide an indication of the cost to provide these services on an
ongoing basis.
Long Term Strategies
Acquire property for re-development
Acquiring property would allow the URA to issue a RFP and find and work with qualified
development partners that could deliver a development program consistent with community
desires and opportunities.
Repayments fund community objectives
As development occurs and taps into stormwater infrastructure and takes access from Mason
Street, the URA and City will seek repayment from developers. Repayments to the URA can go
into a fund that helps fulfill other community objectives. If a development meets objectives
identified by the community, such as affordable housing, the URA could waive its repayment to
incentivize the type of development desired by the community. Any projects seeking a waiver for
a repayment would request a waiver from the URA Board. The URA Board would decide on any
waiver in a similar fashion to a TIF assistance request. This system would help achieve legacy
projects for the plan area and incentivize the kind of development desired by the community in
the North College plan area.
Community Hub
Various community members have noted that North College lacks a focal point. Latinx
community members feel an acute need for a community gathering place. Outside of the
Northside Aztlan Community Center, there are few locations on the northside of Fort Collins that
provide a space for community members to get together. There are also few cultural and
educational amenities in the plan area. Workshop participants developed the idea of a
community hub that could bring these amenities together in one location potentially along with
other forms of development that would then act as the focal point of North College. The
community hub would be something available and open to all. While the community hub would
serve anyone, the community hub should also address unmet needs of the Latinx community.
A
Packet Pg. 28 Attachment: Exhibit A (9724 : North College Investment Plan RES)
For the community hub to be successful, the community must lead in designing the hub, with a
particular focus on elevating the voices of the Latinx community. The URA will act as a
convener at first to bring together stakeholders. Once the community has designed the
community hub, the URA can act as a financial partner to help bring the community hub to
fruition.
Short Term Strategy
Begin community-based design process
For a community space such as this to be successful, the community must buy-in and feel a
sense of ownership over the space. The URA could act as a convener for facilitating a
community-based design process. The first year would focus on developing relationships and
building a shared vision for the community hub while identifying opportunities to improve
existing services in the interim. This will provide the foundation to find the appropriate partners
that can help develop the community hub in year two.
Medium Term Strategy
Forge development partnerships
The URA will not have all the funds necessary to develop a community hub on its own.
Community and development partners will help bring capital and expertise to the community
hub to help make the community hub a reality.
Long Term Strategy
Develop community hub
Continue work with community and development partners to develop community hub that aligns
with the needs and vision established by the community. Community members will continue to
drive the design and programming of the community hub.
Infrastructure Improvements
One of the focus areas of the North College Corridor Plan from 2007 and adoption of the North
College Urban Renewal Plan was addressing infrastructure deficiencies throughout the North
College corridor. In 2010, City Council adopted the North College Infrastructure Funding Plan to
guide implementation of the North College Corridor Plan. This plan identified infrastructure
improvements within the plan area, estimated costs, funding sources, and priority levels for
A
Packet Pg. 29 Attachment: Exhibit A (9724 : North College Investment Plan RES)
each project. This document has successfully guided tens of millions of dollars in public
infrastructure investment in the corridor. A handful of projects identified in the Infrastructure
Funding Plan remain unbuilt that help inform the investment plan and can form the foundation of
the Board’s investment in infrastructure.
Short Term Strategy
Continue support of existing projects
The City’s Stormwater and Engineering departments have begun work on stormwater
improvements and establishing the Mason Street corridor west of College Ave. Stormwater
completed 10% design of the stormwater improvements earlier in 2020. Engineering staff are in
the process of acquiring right-of-way for the Mason Street corridor. The URA contributed
$300,000 to the combined stormwater and Mason Street project in 2019 with the City
contributing $467,800. Stormwater submitted a budget offer as part of the City’s Budgeting for
Outcomes process to continue this project in 2021. The budget offer requests $1.5 million for
final design of the stormwater system south of Hickory Street as well as construction of the
outfall into the Poudre River. The budget offer also states that this project will only remain a
priority if the URA contributes to the project financially.
Medium Term Investment Strategies
Complete existing projects
Depending on funding levels, the west side stormwater and Mason Street project will likely
extend into 2023-2024. Completing this project would create an asset that could spur additional
private investment and tax increment generation.
Support outcomes of plan updates
Planning efforts underway today will likely finish in the next two years. Agencies conducting
planning efforts that impact North College include Transfort and Parks Planning. The URA can
collaborate on implementation items articulated in completed plans that align with the Urban
Renewal Authority’s strategic plan in the medium term.
Long Term Investment Strategy
Invest in legacy projects
At the end of the plan area’s tax increment generation, the Board can consider infrastructure
projects that will leave an enduring legacy on the North College community. These projects
could also provide repayment opportunities that will give the URA a revenue source that lasts
A
Packet Pg. 30 Attachment: Exhibit A (9724 : North College Investment Plan RES)
beyond the tax increment generation period of the plan area and enable investment in other
community priorities.
Recommended Revenue Allocation
Complete, Vibrant
Neighborhood Community Hub Infrastructure
Improvements
Short Term
2021 - 2022
Cultivate
partnerships
Small business
support
Community based
design process
Continue existing
projects
Medium Term
2023 - 2024
Pilot community hub
programs
Forge development
partnerships
Complete existing
projects
Long Term
2025 and beyond
Acquire property
Repayments fund
community objectives
Develop community
hub
Fund legacy projects
Total Allocation 25% 50% 25%
The allocations presented above represent a balanced approach to investment. All three
objectives will act in concert to achieve the objectives from our community engagement and the
GARE Equitable Development Framework while meeting statutory requirements to remediate
blight and prevent its further spread. Infrastructure improvements will honor previous
investments made by the URA, help generate economic opportunity for area residents and
businesses, and enhance mobility and connectivity for all community members. Developing a
complete, vibrant neighborhood and a community hub will support development that addresses
the unique needs of the North College area in a culturally attuned way.
Recommended Revenue Allocation by Timeframe
The allocations above indicate the rough proportion of the URA’s revenues that should go to
each community objective. Another important consideration is when to invest in each objective.
Infrastructure investment could lead to redevelopment that increases the tax base and provides
additional revenue for the URA to spend on its objectives. It is also important to retain enough
tax increment revenue to support potential redevelopment and the community hub. The table
below provides guidance on how to spend tax increment within each timeframe.
Short Term
2021 - 2022
Medium Term
2023 - 2024
Long Term
2025 and beyond
Total
Complete, Vibrant
Neighborhood
10%
$238,849
25%
$424,480
30%
$2,914,064 $3,577,393
Community Hub 10%
$238,849
25%
$424,481
60%
$5,828,127 $6,491,457
Infrastructure
Improvements
80%
$1,910,791
50%
$848,961
10%
$971,355 $3,731,107
Total $2,388,489 $1,697,922 $9,713,546 $13,799,957
A
Packet Pg. 31 Attachment: Exhibit A (9724 : North College Investment Plan RES)
Finance Options
The URA may fund improvements as it generates tax increment or issue debt to fund projects.
This investment plan does not provide guidance on how to finance the improvements in this
plan. Rather, financing decisions are at the discretion of the URA Board. The URA Board will
have the opportunity to discuss financing options when these projects and others go before the
URA Board for discussion. At that time, the Board may decide the best mechanism for financing
these projects.
A
Packet Pg. 32 Attachment: Exhibit A (9724 : North College Investment Plan RES)
Metrics and Indicators
As stated earlier, this investment plan aims to invest the URA’s remaining tax increment
revenue into projects that improve the North College corridor for all. Often times, investment by
government can inadvertently lead to displacement of people, businesses, and culture. For this
investment plan to be a success, investment must lead to all members of the North College
community sharing in the growth in prosperity from the URA’s investments. The following
metrics and indicators will provide signs of how well the URA’s investments are supporting the
goal of developing in an equitable way. Staff will monitor the following data:
Metric/Indicator Data Source Target
Leverage rate URA Increase or maintain historic
leverage rate
Property values County Assessor Stable growth
Property ownership County Assessor Varied ownership, few
properties owned by LLCs
that own 3+ properties
Residential rents Department of Local Affairs Stabilize rents
Business rents CoStar Stabilize rents
Household income HUD, American Community
Survey
Stable growth
Cost burdened households American Community Survey Decrease percentage of
households that are cost
burdened
Residential building permits
issued
City of Fort Collins Mix of unit types that match
community needs
Households by race American Community Survey Prevent displacement of
Latinx community
This suite of metrics and indicators will provide a strong overview of the economic vitality and
the composition of businesses and residents in the plan area. Early signs of significant change
in any of the metrics will send a signal to the URA to act befo re the issue becomes too difficult
to address. Many of these metrics are not within the URA’s control. While the URA cannot
control things like rent or who chooses to live in the plan area, the URA can influence factors
that would result in change or potential displacement of people, businesses, and culture.
A
Packet Pg. 33 Attachment: Exhibit A (9724 : North College Investment Plan RES)
Plan Alignment
Beyond fulfilling the objectives identified by the community during our engagement process, this
investment plan will support the objectives of all entities collecting property tax in the plan area.
This section identifies relevant policies and goals of each taxing entity with which this
investment plan aligns.
City of Fort Collins
The City of Fort Collins has a comprehensive plan called City Plan that provides an overall
vision for the development of the community. Sub-area plans then clarify that vision for different
parts of town. The North College Corridor Plan (NCCP) provides finer grain detail and specific
goals for how North College will develop over time.
City Plan
Principle LIV 2 – Promote infill and redevelopment
Policy LIV 3.6 – Context-sensitive development
Policy LIV 4.4 – Culturally relevant gathering places
Principle LIV 7 – Promote a more inclusive and equitable community that encourages and
celebrates diversity
North College Corridor Plan
Goal STN 2 - Adapt the pattern and details of new streets to fit circumstances and facilitate
development projects consistent with the vision and goals
Goal CAD 2 - Build up a distinct image and city character in evolving places along the corridor
Goal CAD 4 - Promote the positive attributes of the whole North College corridor area with a
unique image and identity program
Goal FAD 1 - Solve drainage system needs where required to allow street and development
projects
Goal FAD 2 - Leverage and stimulate further investment with infrastructure projects
Goal FAD 3 - Leverage City investments with additional financing derived from land value, as
needed to make necessary infrastructure feasible
Goal FAD 4 - Foster a positive investment climate for projects that contribute to the vision and
goals
Goal COM 1 - Continue the broad public support which prompted this plan and much of the
progress in the corridor since 1992 will continue
Goal COM 2 - Increase collaboration and mutual understanding among multiple owners and
City Departments
A
Packet Pg. 34 Attachment: Exhibit A (9724 : North College Investment Plan RES)
Goal COM 3 - Public support, civic discussions, and citizen initiative will continue to lead to
financing solutions and other property agreements to implement goals.
Larimer County
Larimer County utilizes a Strategic Plan to guide its operations in the short term. Larimer
County’s Comprehensive Plan provides policy direction over the long term. Below are policies
from the Strategic Plan and Comprehensive Plan with which this investment plan aligns.
Strategic Plan
Goal 2 - Everyone in Larimer County has access to economic opportunities and a vibrant quality
of life. We work together to remove barriers.
Comprehensive Plan
Policy E1.3 - Support investments in workforce development, training, technology, and
education for the evolving needs of a diverse workforce and changing economy.
Policy E1.4 - Encourage small-business development and entrepreneurship in non-residential
locations.
Policy I1.7 - Collaborate with state, regional, and local entities to develop a more efficient,
connected trail, transit, rail and multi-modal transportation system.
Poudre School District
Poudre School District uses the concept of District Ends to define success. District Ends are
aspirational goals that help the district achieve its vision and drives policy. The District Ends this
investment plan will help the school district achieve are:
Success in a Changing World: PSD students are prepared for college and workforce success.
PSD ensures access and encourages participation in a wide range of experiences that reflect
expectations of a changing world.
Connections: PSD students are academically and socially connected to their school and
community. PSD provides engaging opportunities to support students' individual pursuits and
interests.
Poudre River Library District
Meet & Collaborate - We are a catalyst for positive, social interactions. We provide inclusive,
welcoming spaces to bring together a growing and diverse community. Our libraries are trusted
destinations that anchor the community. We build collaborative partnerships with local
organizations, businesses, and nonprofits that allow us to provide service in alternative ways.
Reimagine the Future - We foster a culture of possibility and stewardship. We anticipate the
needs of our growing community and align our resources to those needs. We recognize that the
current demand for library services in our District exceeds our available public spaces. We look
for opportunities to expand and build efficiency, sustainability, and creativity in our operations.
A
Packet Pg. 35 Attachment: Exhibit A (9724 : North College Investment Plan RES)
Appendix A: Engagement Overview
Community members who participated in the workshops had the opportunity to better
understand the URA’s function, and to explore the context and desired future in and around the
North College Plan Area. The Family Center/La Familia (TFC/LF) conducted three community
workshops with an average of 30 participants—primarily from the Latinx community—who
included members of Mi Voz (a civic engagement leadership program organized by TFC/LF),
North College Latinx residents, business owners, advocates, and parents. IBE conducted six
workshops that included an average of approximately 25 participants who included residents,
City of Fort Collins and Larimer County staff, Fort Collins Police Department representatives,
members of the North College Plan Area Citizen Advisory Group, North Fort Collins business
owners, and non-profit and community organizations. Within each of the two workshop tracks
(IBE and TFC/LF), attendance was relatively consistent across all workshops.
Overarching themes between the two groups were as follows:
• Increase vibrancy through maintaining and adding services and amenities that the
community wants.
• Enhance and celebrate cultural needs and opportunities, including artistic expression.
• Increase access to a variety of recreation options.
Complete & Vibrant Neighborhood
• Support and encourage small businesses
• Affordable housing, including preservation of mobile home parks
• Assets reflective of, supporting, and attuned to Latinx culture, businesses, and families
o Food and entertainment
o Health services
o Additional affordable child chare
o Library/community college branch
o Highlight local art / artist throughout corridor
o Spanish language / Latinx movies
Approach A: Proactively encourage mixed-use (re)development through issuing an RFP.
Approach B: Distribute resources to support small businesses and target community-prioritized
amenities.
Latinx Community Hub
• Indoor community and recreation space
• Space for seniors to gather, and for quinceañeras and other cultural celebrations
• Economic stability and job training opportunities
• Space for youth activities
• Family and community health support services
• Possible incubator space
• Community skills and asset sharing
A
Packet Pg. 36 Attachment: Exhibit A (9724 : North College Investment Plan RES)
Approach: Facilitate and support a community-driven design process with potential funding
from non-profit, philanthropic, and possibly grants or an angel investor.
Stormwater Improvements
• Continue to invest in stormwater improvements on the west side of College Avenue to
enable real estate development
Approach: Continue to partner with City of Fort Collins Engineering Services to help deliver
improvements. Leverage stormwater improvements to help support bike/pedestrian connectivity.
Potentially explore stormwater improvements serving as a source for future revenues through
repayments as development occurs along Mason Street.
Recreation & Connectivity
• Increase access, connectivity, and community-desired activities
• Improve connection between parks and neighborhoods
• Outdoor recreation spaces (e.g. soccer, outdoor grilling)
• Additional outdoor grilling areas
• Indoor soccer fields
• Plaza and mercado
Approach: Relatively low-cost investment can provide impact improvements in residents’
quality of life and will help support multimodal transportation in the corridor. Work with City of
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation, as appropriate.
A
Packet Pg. 37 Attachment: Exhibit A (9724 : North College Investment Plan RES)
Agenda Item 3
Item # 3 Page 1
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY November 30, 2020
Urban Renewal Authority Board
STAFF
Clay Frickey, Redevelopment Program Manager
SUBJECT
Resolution No. 110 of the Board of Commissioners of the Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority Approving Its
Amended Strategic Plan.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this item is to consider adoption of a Resolution amending the Urban Renewal Authority
Strategic Plan.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends approval of the Resolution.
BACKGROUND
Staff and the Urban Renewal Authority Board have co-created a strategic plan since August 2019. The Board
considered an initial framework of the strategic plan in February 2020 and a draft plan in July 2020. The Board
adopted the strategic plan via resolution at their meeting on September 24, 2020. At this meeting, members of
the Board requested changes to the Strategic Plan. These changes included:
• Adding a section on Who We Are as an organization.
• Align Strategic Plan with Capital Improvement Plans (CIPs) of other taxing entities
• Emphasize partnerships including the City, all taxing entities/special districts, their staff, etc.
When presented at the Board meeting in October, the Board requested a series of changes captured by the
proposed resolution.
DISCUSSION
What’s Changed?
Staff made three changes to the Strategic Plan based on the feedback from the URA Board. These changes are:
• Addition of a “Who We Are” statement
• Changed word “other taxing entities” to “partners”
• Added eighth strategy related to supporting partners’ Capital Improvement Plans (CIPs)
Who We Are
Board members expressed an interest in creating another section of the Strategic Plan describing who the Urban
Renewal Authority is. By knowing who the Urban Renewal Authority is, stakeholders wo uld have a better
understanding of how and why the Urban Renewal Authority acts in the way it does. Staff proposed the following
statement describing who we are as an Urban Renewal Authority in October:
3
Packet Pg. 38
Agenda Item 3
Item # 3 Page 2
The Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority brings together organizations that collect property tax to
create a better Fort Collins for everyone.
Board members expressed concern that this statement did not capture the organization’s purpose of remediating
blight. This statement is now amended to capture this element of the URA, as shown below:
The Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority brings together local, tax collecting organizations to
collaborate and remediate blight to create a better community for everyone.
What We Do
Adding a “Who We Are” statement caused some Board members to desire slight changes to the “What We Do”
statement. The discussion at the October Board meeting made Board members realize that none of the statements
in the Strategic Plan addressed the organizations use of tax increment financing. Since tax increment financing is a
tool employed by the URA, the Board thought it would make sense to include a reference to tax increment
financing in the “What We Do” statement. The amended “What We Do” statement now reads:
Eliminate blight by catalyzing projects and accelerating investments that would not otherwise happen,
thereby creating improvements with lasting value through tax increment financing.
Partners
One of the concerns the Board raised upon adopting the Strategic Plan was how to best ensure stakeholders
understand the City is included as being one of the taxing entities referred to in the Strategic Plan. Other Board
members wanted the Strategic Plan to not overemphasize the City while still ensuring the Strategic Plan includes
all the other taxing entities. To address these points, staff proposes using the term “partners” to refer to all the
taxing entities represented in the URA. This term is more inclusive and does not create a dichotomy between the
City and all other taxing entities.
Eighth Strategy
Strategy 8 captures the desire for the URA to align its action with the capital investments of partner agencies. It is
a further refinement of Strategy 7 and makes it clear the URA will work to align its work with the capital
investments of its partners. This will allow the URA and its partners to invest in mutually beneficial ways.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Powerpoint Presentation (PDF)
3
Packet Pg. 39
November 30, 2020
URA Strategic Plan
Amendment
ATTACHMENT 1 3.1
Packet Pg. 40 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9676 : Strategic Plan Amendment)
Background
•Board adopted Strategic Plan in September
•Requested changes
•Who We Are
•What We Do
•More clarity around what “taxing entities” means
•Align with other organizations’capital investments
2
3.1
Packet Pg. 41 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9676 : Strategic Plan Amendment)
Who We Are
The Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority brings together local, tax
collecting organizations to collaborate and remediate blight to
create a better community for everyone.
3
3.1
Packet Pg. 42 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9676 : Strategic Plan Amendment)
What We Do
Eliminate blight by catalyzing projects and accelerating
investments that would not otherwise happen, thereby creating
improvements w ith lasting value through tax increment financing.
4
3.1
Packet Pg. 43 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9676 : Strategic Plan Amendment)
Ta xing Entities Language
•Changed to “partners”
•All taxing entities equal
•Inclusive term
5
3.1
Packet Pg. 44 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9676 : Strategic Plan Amendment)
Strategy 8
Strategy 8 -Align URA Strategic Plan and activities with partner
agencies’capital investments.
•Ensures investments aligned
•Can then invest in mutually beneficial ways
6
3.1
Packet Pg. 45 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9676 : Strategic Plan Amendment)
Recommendation
Staff recommends adopting the resolution amending the URA
Strategic Plan
7
3.1
Packet Pg. 46 Attachment: Powerpoint Presentation (9676 : Strategic Plan Amendment)
-1-
RESOLUTION NO. 110
OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE
FORT COLLINS URBAN RENEWAL AUTHORITY
APPROVING ITS AMENDED STRATEGIC PLAN
WHEREAS, the Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority (the “Authority”) was established
in 1982 under and in accordance with the Colorado Revised Statutes (“C.R.S.”) § 31-25-101, et
seq. (the “Urban Renewal Law”); and
WHEREAS, the Authority is authorized by C.R.S. § 31-25-105(1)(a) to make and adopt
bylaws, orders, rules, and regulations to effectuate the purposes of the Urban Renewal Law; and
WHEREAS, to facilitate communication with the general public, other taxing bodies, and
private development community about the strategies, mission, goals and priorities of the
Authority in furthering its purpose under the Urban Renewal Law, on September 24, 2020 the
Commissioners of the Authority adopted Resolution 2020-108 approving the Strategic Plan in
the form attached as Exhibit A thereto (the “Strategic Plan”); and
WHEREAS, the Strategic Plan is an advisory document which identifies and establishes
strategies that are of particular importance to the Authority to guide its mission and further its
purposes; and
WHEREAS, further discussion of the Commissioners about the Strategic Plan led to the
desire for further clarification of the Strategic Plan, and the Commissioners have proposed
amendments to the Strategic Plan to affect such clarification; and
WHEREAS, the Commissioners have determined that it is in the best interests of the
Authority to approve the Strategic Plan, as amended, in the form attached hereto and
incorporated herein as Exhibit A (the “Amended Strategic Plan”).
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
OF THE FORT COLLINS URBAN RENEWAL AUTHORITY:
Section 1. The foregoing Recitals are incorporated herein by this reference.
Section 2. The Amended Strategic Plan in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A is
hereby approved.
Section 3. This Resolution shall be effective upon approval by the Authority.
Packet Pg. 47
-2-
Passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the Board of Commissioners of the City of
Fort Collins Urban Renewal Authority this 30th day of November, A.D. 2020.
_________________________________
Chair
ATTEST:
_____________________________
Secretary
Packet Pg. 48
tŚĂƚtĞŽ͗ ůŝŵŝŶĂƚĞďůŝŐŚƚďLJĐĂƚĂůLJnjŝŶŐƉƌŽũĞĐƚƐĂŶĚĂĐĐĞůĞƌĂƚŝŶŐŝŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚƐƚŚĂƚǁŽƵůĚŶŽƚŽƚŚĞƌǁŝƐĞŚĂƉƉĞŶ͕ƚŚĞƌĞďLJĐƌĞĂƚŝŶŐŝŵƉƌŽǀĞŵĞŶƚƐǁŝƚŚůĂƐƚŝŶŐǀĂůƵĞƚŚƌŽƵŐŚƚĂdžŝŶĐƌĞŵĞŶƚĨŝŶĂŶĐŝŶŐ͘,ŽǁtĞĞŚĂǀĞ͗භ ^ƚĞǁĂƌĚƐŚŝƉ භ dƌĂŶƐƉĂƌĞŶĐLJ භ ĂƚĂƌŝǀĞŶ භŽͲĐƌĞĂƚŝŽŶභ/ŶĐůƵƐŝŽŶ^ƚƌĂƚĞŐLJϭ͗ŽͲĐƌĞĂƚĞƉƌŽĂĐƚŝǀĞĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚLJŝŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚƉůĂŶƐǁŝƚŚĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚLJŵĞŵďĞƌƐĂŶĚƉĂƌƚŶĞƌƐĨŽƌĞĂĐŚƉůĂŶĂƌĞĂ͘^ƚƌĂƚĞŐLJϮ͗ĞǀĞůŽƉĞǀĂůƵĂƚŝŽŶĐƌŝƚĞƌŝĂĨŽƌd/&ĂƐƐŝƐƚĂŶĐĞƌĞƋƵĞƐƚƐďĂƐĞĚŽŶhZŽĂƌĚƌĞƚƌĞĂƚ͘^ƚƌĂƚĞŐLJϯ͗ŵĞŶĚ/'ǁŝƚŚŝƚLJƚŽďĞĐŽŶƐŝƐƚĞŶƚǁŝƚŚhZ^ƚƌĂƚĞŐŝĐWůĂŶ͘^ƚƌĂƚĞŐLJϰ͗hƉĚĂƚĞhZǁĞďƐŝƚĞƚŽŝŵƉƌŽǀĞƵƐĂďŝůŝƚLJ͘^ƚƌĂƚĞŐLJϱ͗WƌŽĚƵĐĞĂŶŶƵĂůƌĞƉŽƌƚĨŽƌƚŚĞhZĂŶĚĞĂĐŚƉůĂŶĂƌĞĂ͘^ƚƌĂƚĞŐLJϲ͗hƉĚĂƚĞͬĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĂƚĞƌŝĂůƐŽƵƚůŝŶŝŶŐhZƉƌŽĐĞƐƐĞƐĨŽƌĂƉƉůŝĐĂŶƚƐĂŶĚƚŚĞĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚLJ͘tŚLJtĞ džŝƐƚ͗ KƵƌƌĞƐŝĚĞŶƚƐĨĞĞůŐƌĞĂƚĞƌĐŝǀŝĐƉƌŝĚĞĂŶĚƐĞŶƐĞŽĨďĞůŽŶŐŝŶŐǁŚĞŶƌĞŝŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚŚĞůƉƐƚƌĂŶƐĨŽƌŵďůŝŐŚƚĞĚĂƌĞĂƐŝŶƚŽǀŝďƌĂŶƚŶĞŝŐŚďŽƌŚŽŽĚƐĂŶĚĂŵĞŶŝƚŝĞƐǁŚŝĐŚĞŶŚĂŶĐĞƚŚĞůŽĐĂůĐŚĂƌĂĐƚĞƌ͕ĐƵůƚƵƌĞ͕ĞĐŽŶŽŵLJ͕ĂŶĚƋƵĂůŝƚLJŽĨůŝĨĞ͘^ƚƌĂƚĞŐLJϳ͗ůŝŐŶhZ^ƚƌĂƚĞŐŝĐWůĂŶĂŶĚĂĐƚŝǀŝƚŝĞƐǁŝƚŚƉĂƌƚŶĞƌĂŐĞŶĐŝĞƐ͛ŐŽĂůƐ͕ŽďũĞĐƚŝǀĞƐ͕ĂŶĚƉůĂŶƐ͘^ƚƌĂƚĞŐLJϴ͗ůŝŐŶhZ^ƚƌĂƚĞŐŝĐWůĂŶĂŶĚĂĐƚŝǀŝƚŝĞƐǁŝƚŚƉĂƌƚŶĞƌĂŐĞŶĐŝĞƐ͛ĐĂƉŝƚĂůŝŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚƐ͘EXHIBIT A