HomeMy WebLinkAboutSTRAUSS CABIN CHURCH - BDR200003 - SUBMITTAL DOCUMENTS - ROUND 1 - CORRESPONDENCE-CONCEPTUAL REVIEW1
Community Development and
Neighborhood Services
281 North College Avenue
PO Box 580
Fort Collins, CO 80522
970.221.6750
970.224.6134 - fax
fcgov.com
July 25, 2019
See responses to comments below for each item.
Rob Bassett
Fort Collins, CO
Re: 5236 Strauss Cabin Rd Addition
Description of project: This is a request to build a 1,991 sq. ft. addition to the existing
place of worship located at 5236 Strauss Cabin Road (parcel #8603000913). The existing
structures are a 2,752 sq. ft., two-story building with a 1,079 sq. ft., one-story building on a
1.82 acre lot. The proposed addition to the south of the main building would connect to the
existing one-story building and would accommodate approximately four counselors and
their clients during the week and up to 40-50 congregants in classroom space during the
weekend. There are 75 existing parking spaces. Access is taken from two points on
Strauss Cabin Road. The property is within the Urban Estate (UE) zone district and is
subject to Basic Development Review (BDR) for the plat and a may require a Minor
Amendment (MA) for the addition upon further review by staff of approved uses.
Please see the following summary of comments regarding the project request referenced
above. The comments offered informally by staff during the Conceptual Review will assist you
in preparing the detailed components of the project application. Modifications and additions
to these comments may be made at the time of formal review of this project. If you have any
questions regarding these comments or the next steps in the review process, you may contact
the individual commenter or direct your questions through the Development Review Coordinator,
Tenae Beane, at 970-224-6119 or tbeane@fcgov.com.
Comment Summary
Department: Development Review Coordinator
Contact: Tenae Beane, 970-416-2554, tbeane@fcgov.com
1. The proposed development project is subject to a Basic Development Review to plat the
property
and a Minor Amendment to document the site changes. The decision maker for your project will
be the Development Review Manager and/or Director of Community Development and
Neighborhood Services. See Planning Services comments below for more details.
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All documents submitted to the City in association with your
project are available to the public through our website.
2. I will be your primary point of contact throughout the development review and permitting
process. If you have any questions, need additional meetings with the project reviewers,
or need assistance throughout the process, please let me know and I can assist your
team. Please include me in all email correspondence with other reviewers and keep me
informed of any phone conversations. Thank you!
3. This letter is provided to you in Microsoft Word format. Please use this document to
provide written responses to each comment for submittal, using a different font color.
When replying to the comment letter please be detailed in your responses, as all
comments should be thoroughly addressed. Provide reference to specific project plans
or explanations of why comments have not been addressed, when applicable.
4. For more detailed process information, see the Development Review Guide at
www.fcgov.com/drg . This online guide features a color coded flowchart with
comprehensive, easy to read information on each step in the process. This guide
includes links to just about every resource you need during development review.
5. I will provide a Project Submittal Checklist to assist in your submittal preparation. Please
use the checklist in conjunction with the Submittal Requirements located at:
http://www.fcgov.com/developmentreview/applications.php.
The checklist provided is specific to this Conceptual project; if there are any significant
changes to this project, please let me know so we can adjust the checklist accordingly. I
can always send an updated copy of the Submittal Checklist to ensure you are
submitting the correct materials.
6. The request will be subject to the Development Review Fee Schedule:
https://www.fcgov.com/developmentreview/fees.php.
I will provide estimated fees, which are due at time of project submittal for formal review.
This is an estimate of the initial fees to begin the Development Review process based
on your Conceptual Review Application. As noted in the comments, there are additional
fees required by other departments, and additional fees at the time of building permit.
The City of Fort Collins fee schedule is subject to change – please confirm these
estimates before submitting. If you have any questions about fees, please reach out to
me.
7. Submittals are accepted any day of the week, with Wednesday at noon being the cut-off
for routing the same week. Upon initial submittal, your project will be subject to a
completeness review. Staff has until noon that Friday to determine if the project contains
all required checklist items and is sufficient for a round of review. If complete, a formal
Letter of Acceptance will be emailed to you and the project would be officially routed
with a three-week round of review. Meetings to review comments with City staff are held
on Wednesday mornings after the three week review.
8. When you are ready to submit your formal plans, please make an appointment with me
at least 24 hours in advance. Applications and plans are submitted electronically in
person with initial fees.
Pre-submittal meetings can be beneficial to ensure you have everything for a complete
submittal. I am happy to help set up a pre-submittal meeting if you feel that it would help.
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Planning Services
Contact: Kai Kleer, 970-416-4284, kkleer@fcgov.com
1. Update 07/19/2019: It has been determined by Planning and Zoning staff that the
Commercial Certificate of Occupancy #17-COM0119 obtained through the County
Building Department on 06/15/2018 adequately establishes the counseling center as an
Existing Limited Permitted Use in the City. Scenario one, listed below, would require the
project to go though the Minor Amendment process to document changes (without
additional compliance to Article 3/4) to the site and the Basic Development Review
process to plat the property.
As mentioned during our meeting, the City may have interest in the northern tip of the
existing property to help achieve full build out of a regional trail. More conversation must
take place with our Parks and Recreation department but should happen before submittal
of the project.
Response: (BHA) We have confirmed with Parks Planning Dept that no easements or trail
connection improvements are requested at this time.
The established 'principal use' of 5236 Strauss Cabin Road is a 'Place of Worship or
Assembly'. Things such as providing counseling, a venue for weddings, shelter, childcare,
etc., can often be considered an 'accessory use', so long as they are
incidental/subordinate to the principle use. If any associated use is determined 'primary'
the project would have to go through additional level of review to establish the use on site.
There are several if, then scenarios. They are;
1. If counseling was established in the County, then, this project would be considered an
Existing Limited Permitted Use under the Fort Collins Land Use Code and may be
expanded with certain limitations described under 1.6.5 of our Code. This would allow an
enlargement under 25% of the gross square footage to happen without coming into
compliance with Article 3/4.
Response: (BHA) Based on our discussions with planning, engineering, and traffic
following the Conceptual Review meeting, we have prepared a submittal for the expansion
as an ‘Existing Limited Permitted Use’ to be processed as a Basic Development Review for
the planned building addition and its related site modifications. We have also included a
Subdivision Plat indicating the dedication of ROW along Strauss Cabin Road. We have
followed the checklist provided and have checked additional items as ‘not applicable’ where
appropriate.
2. If the counseling was not established in the County, then, this project would have to
establish the use through the Addition of Permitted Use Process and which would require
two neighborhood meetings, recommendation by the Planning and Zoning Board and
Approval by City Council.
3. If the counseling is determined to be accessory based on the applicants narrative then
the project would be required to go through the Basic Development Review and Minor
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Amendment process.
Basic Development Review is required for review and recording of the plat and the Minor
Amendment is required for the addition to the existing building and associated site
upgrades to come into compliance with Article 3&4 to the extent reasonably feasible.
2. As part of the 2013 Trails Master Plan it is anticipated that a future trail will run adjacent to
the site. Additional comments to the appropriateness and potential connections will be
provided and coordinated by the Parks and Recreation Department. Depending on the
level of review this may or may not need to be considered.
Response: (BHA) We have confirmed with Parks Planning Dept that no easements or trail
connection improvements are requested at this time.
Department: Engineering Development Review
Contact: Katie Andrews, 970-221-6501, kandrews@fcgov.com
1. In accordance with City Code 24-95 the project is responsible for the design and
construction of the Strauss Cabin frontage at the time of redevelopment. If the project
were to move forward as a new use with an APU, then Strauss Cabin Road will need to
be designed and constructed with this project. Strauss Cabin is a master street planned
2-lane arterial roadway. The project will be eligible for reimbursement for the portion of
the road which is above and beyond the local portion in accordance with Section
24-112. It looks as though there may be sufficient ROW existing to accommodate the
arterial cross section - this will need to be confirmed with project review.
Response: (BHA) Based on our subsequent discussions with planning, engineering and
traffic we intend to dedicate ROW along Strauss Cabin Road for future road improvements,
but roadway improvements will not be required with this small addition.
2. Currently, there are several parking stalls in the public right-of-way. Ultimately, the road
improvements may require these to be removed from the ROW, whether that is with this
project, or later. If no road improvements are done with this project, the parking spaces
in the right of way would require an approved encroachment permit in order to remain.
For more information about this permit:
https://www.fcgov.com/engineering/inspection.php
Response: (BHA) Based on our subsequent discussions with planning, engineering and
traffic we intend to dedicate ROW along Strauss Cabin Road for future road improvements,
but roadway improvements and parking lot reconfiguration will not be required with this
small addition.
3. With APU: This project is responsible for dedicating any right-of-way and easements
that are necessary or required by the City for this project. ROW may need to be
dedicated in order to accommodate the 2-lane arterial with center turn lane. Most
easements to be dedicated need to be public easements dedicated to the City. This
shall include the standard utility easements that are to be provided behind the
right-of-way (15 foot along an arterial). Information on the dedication process can be
found at: http://www.fcgov.com/engineering/devrev.php
Response: (BHA) See responses to 1 and 2 above.
4. With APU: Driveway access locations onto Strauss Cabin Road will be evaluated for
compliance with access spacing standards and may need to be relocated or limited.
Response: (BHA) See responses to 1 and 2 above.
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5. Larimer County Road Impact Fees and Transportation Expansion Fees are due at the
time of building permit. Please contact Kyle Lambrecht at 221-6566 if you have any
questions.
Response: (BHA) Noted and required fees will be paid at time of building permit.
6. With APU: The City's Transportation Development Review Fee (TDRF) is due at the
time of submittal. For additional information on these fees, please see:
http://www.fcgov.com/engineering/dev-review.php
Response: (BHA) Not anticipated since an APU is not applicable/required
7. Any public improvements must be designed and built in accordance with the Larimer
County Urban Area Street Standards (LCUASS). They are available online at:
http://www.larimer.org/engineering/GMARdStds/UrbanSt.htm
Response: (BHA) Noted.
8. Any damaged curb, gutter and sidewalk existing prior to construction, as well as streets,
sidewalks, curbs and gutters, destroyed, damaged or removed due to construction of
this project, shall be replaced or restored to City of Fort Collins standards at the
Developer's expense prior to the acceptance of completed improvements and/or prior
to the issuance of the first Certificate of Occupancy.
Response: (BHA) Understood and noted on the Site Plan.
9. All public sidewalk, driveways and ramps, existing or proposed, adjacent or within the
site, need to meet ADA standards. If they currently do not, they will need to be
reconstructed so that they do meet current ADA standards as a part of this project.
Response: (BHA) No change or improvements to public sidewalks, driveways or ramps
are anticipated.
10. With APU: Utility plans will be required and a Development Agreement will be recorded
once the project is finalized.
Response: (BHA) Not anticipated since an APU is not applicable/required
11. As of January 1, 2015, all development plans are required to be on the NAVD88 vertical
datum. Please make your consultants aware of this, prior to any surveying and/or design
work.
Response: (BHA) Understood and has been used by Civil/Surveyor.
12. A Development Construction Permit (DCP) may need to be obtained prior to starting
any work on the site.
Response: (BHA) A DCP will be obtained prior to beginning construction
13. LCUASS parking setbacks (Figure 19-6) apply and will need to be followed depending
on parking design.
Response: (BHA) Based on our subsequent discussions with planning, engineering and
traffic we intend to dedicate ROW along Strauss Cabin Road for future road improvements,
but roadway and improvements and parking lot reconfiguration will not be required with this
small addition.
14. All fences, barriers, posts or other encroachments within the public right-of-way are only
permitted upon approval of an encroachment permit. Applications for encroachment
permits shall be made to the Engineering Department for review and approval prior to
installation. Encroachment items shall not be shown on the site plan as they may not be
approved, need to be modified or moved, or if the permit is revoked then the site/
landscape plan is in non-compliance.
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Response: (BHA) We are not aware of any encroachments into existing ROW. However,
the existing parking lot and monument sign will fall within the new ROW dedication area.
Please advise if an encroachment permit is required at this time.
15. In regards to construction of this site, the public right-of-way shall not be used for staging
or storage of materials or equipment associated with the Development, nor shall it be
used for parking by any contractors, subcontractors, or other personnel working for or
hired by the Developer to construct the Development. The Developer will need to find a
location(s) on private property to accommodate any necessary staging and/or parking
needs associated with the completion of the Development. Information on the
location(s) of these areas will be required to be provided to the City as a part of the
Development Construction Permit application.
Response: (Coe Construction) We have attached our site construction logistics plan for
your review.
Department: Traffic Operations
Contact: Martina Wilkinson, 970-221-6887, mwilkinson@fcgov.com
1. We'll need to get some additional information related to the potential change in vehicular
traffic. Is this to support the existing church use on Sundays, or a daily use with
additional traffic during the peak hours? That information will determine whether
additional traffic review is required or not. (For instance, Strauss Cabin Road is
classified as an arterial and does not meet current standards. A significant change in
traffic would require auxiliary turn lanes.) The information should detail the current
approved use, and estimated number of vehicles compared to the proposed use and
estimated number of vehicles. Contact me with any questions.
Response: (BHA) Based on our subsequent discussions with planning, engineering and
traffic we intend to dedicate ROW along Strauss Cabin Road for future road improvements,
but roadway improvements will not be required with this small addition.
2. Work with Engineering on the potential for any required adjacent road improvements.
Response: (BHA) Based on our subsequent discussions with planning, engineering and
traffic we intend to dedicate ROW along Strauss Cabin Road for future road improvements,
but roadway improvements will not be required with this small addition.
Department: Fire Authority
Contact: Jim Lynxwiler, 970-416-2869, jlynxwiler@poudre-fire.org
1. FIRE LANES
Fire access is required to within 150' of all exterior portions of any building as measured
by an approved route around the perimeter. For the purposes of this section, fire access
cannot be measured from an arterial road (Strauss Cabin Rd) and a fire lane will be
required on the property if one does not currently exist.
Any private drive serving as a fire lane shall be dedicated as an Emergency Access
Easement (EAE) and be designed to standard fire lane specifications (provided below).
Response: (United Civil) An emergency access easement has been identified on the
Utility Plans and Plat.
2. FIRE LANE SPECIFICATIONS
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A fire lane plan shall be submitted for approval prior to installation. In addition to the
design criteria already contained in relevant standards and policies, any new fire lane
must meet the following general requirements:
> Shall be dedicated by plat or separate document as an Emergency Access
Easement.
> Maintain the required 20 foot minimum unobstructed width & 14 foot minimum
overhead clearance. Where road widths exceed 20 feet in width, the full width shall be
dedicated unless otherwise approved by the AHJ.
> Be designed as a flat, hard, all-weather driving surface capable of supporting 40 tons.
> Dead-end fire access roads in excess of 150 feet in length shall be provided with an
approved area for turning around fire apparatus.
> The required turning radii of a fire apparatus access road shall be a minimum of 25
feet inside and 50 feet outside. Turning radii shall be detailed on submitted plans.
> Be visible by red curb and/or signage, and maintained unobstructed at all times. Sign
locations or red curbing should be labeled and detailed on final plans. Refer to LCUASS
detail #1418 & #1419 for sign type, placement, and spacing. Appropriate directional
arrows required on all signs.
Response: (United Civil) An emergency access easement will be dedicated with the Plat.
The width is constrained by existing parking stalls and has been previously discussed
with PFA.
3. WATER SUPPLY
A fire hydrant capable of providing 1500 gpm at 20 psi residual pressure is required
within 300' of the building as measured along an approved path of vehicle travel.
Hydrants on the opposite side of arterial roadways do not typically comply with this
location requirement. Such approval would require review by the fire marshal.
> IFC 507.5.5: A 3-foot clear space shall be maintained around the circumference of
fire hydrants except as otherwise required or approved.
Response: (United Civil) A proposed fire hydrant has been shown on the Utility Plans.
4. FIRE CONTAINMENT VA FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEM
Should the proposed building's total area exceed 5,000 square feet, it is required to be
sprinklered or fire contained. If containment is used, the containment construction shall
be reviewed and approved by the Poudre Fire Authority prior to installation.
Response: (Hauser Architects) Noted.
5. PREMISE IDENTIFICATION
> IFC 505.1: New and existing buildings shall have approved address numbers,
building numbers or approved building identification placed in a position that is plainly
legible, visible from the street or road fronting the property, and posted with a minimum
of eight-inch numerals on a contrasting background.
Response: (Hauser Architects) Noted, the above referenced requirement will be provided.
Department: Building Inspection
Contact: Katy Hand, , khand@fcgov.com
1. Buildings exceeding 5000 sf need to be either:
A. Fire sprinkled (NFPA 13 system)
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or
B. Fire contained so that no area exceeds 5,000 sf. The wall separating the two areas
will need to be constructed as a 1hr fire barrier and rated openings. (doors between
spaces would be 45 min rated).
Response: (Hauser Architects) Noted
2. What is the current and proposed function of the existing "outbuilding?" (equipment
storage?)
Response: (Hauser Architects) The existing sheds are currently used for storage.
3. New restrooms in the addition will need to comply with ICC-A117.1 2017 (new larger
turning radius etc.)
Response: (Hauser Architects) Noted, all new restrooms will meet the above referenced
requirements.
4. Please visit our website for a list of current adopted building codes and local
amendments:
https://www.fcgov.com/building/codes.php
Response: (Hauser Architects) Noted, the proposed project will follow the current code
and amendments.
5. An air tightness test is required for the new addition. Please contact Brad Smith
brsmith@fcgov.com for additional information on the type of test and protocol method.
Response: (Hauser Architects) Noted, I will contact Brad for further information.
6. An accessible route is required to each level (above or below grade) with an aggregate
area of 3000 sf or more.
Response: (Hauser Architects) Noted, we will provide accessible routes to each level.
7. It appears the the assembly area shown will have over 50 occupants which would which
would be a partial change of occupancy to an A3. Impacts would be exit separation,
structural floor loading, occupancy separation between B and A3 spaces as well as
accessibility upgrades. Work with a licensed architect to address change of occupancy
upgrades.
Response: (Hauser Architects) Noted, Hauser architects will address the change in
occupancy, and area separation requirements.
Department: Stormwater Engineering
Contact: Matt Simpson, (970)416-2754, masimpson@fcgov.com
1. Master plan and criteria compliance (site specific comment):
The design of this site must conform to the drainage basin design of the McClellands
Creek Master Drainage Plan as well the Fort Collins Stormwater Criteria Manual.
Response: (United Civil) The design conforms to the master drainage plan and FCSCM.
2. Documentation requirements (site specific comment):
If there is an increase in imperviousness greater than 1,000 square feet a drainage
report, erosion control report and construction plans are required, and must be prepared
by a Professional Engineer registered in the State of Colorado. The drainage report
must address the four-step process for selecting structural BMPs.
If the increase in impervious area is greater than 350 square feet and less than 1,000
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square feet, a drainage letter along with a grading and erosion control plan should be
sufficient to document the existing and proposed drainage patterns. The letter will also
need to address where the runoff generated by the new impervious area is going and
may need to mitigate any additional runoff directed onto adjacent properties.
A grading plan is required if the increase in imperviousness is less than 350 square
feet.
Response: (United Civil) The net increase of impervious area is less than 1,000 sf and
is documented in the attached drainage letter.
3. Stormwater outfall (site specific comment):
The stormwater outfall options for this site appear to be surface flow to Strauss Cabin
Rd for the western portion of the site; the eastern portion of the site appears to surface
flow into the Fossil Creek Reservoir Inlet canal.
Response: (United Civil) Per the survey for the project, this is correct. Existing drainage
patterns have been maintained.
4. Stormwater Discharge to Existing Irrigation Ditch (site specific comment):
Any approved development plans for this site, where there is increase of runoff draining
to the irrigation ditch (increase of impervious area), will require an agreement and
approval from the irrigation ditch company. The more restrictive of irrigation company
and City requirements will apply.
The Fossil Creek Inlet Canal is owned by the North Poudre Irrigation Company, Contact
Tad Moen at: (970) 218-8467, https://npicwater.com/
Response: (United Civil) Noted. No impacts to the drainage directed to the canal have
been made.
5. Imperviousness documentation (standard comment):
It is important to document the existing impervious area since drainage requirements
and fees are based on new impervious area. An exhibit showing the existing and
proposed impervious areas with a table summarizing the areas is required prior to the
time fees are calculated for each building permit.
Response: (United Civil) Please refer to the drainage letter.
6. Detention requirements (site specific comment):
When improvements are proposed to an existing developed site and there is an
increase in impervious area greater than 1000 square feet, onsite detention is required
for the runoff from the new impervious areas.
In the McClellands drainage basin onsite detention is required with a 0.2 cfs/ac release
rate for the 10-year storm and a 0.5 cfs/ac release rate for the 100-year storm.
Response: (United Civil) The net increase of impervious area is less than 1,000 sf so no
detention is required.
7. Detention drain times (standard comment):
Per Colorado Revised Statute §37-92-602 (8) that became effective August 5, 2015,
criteria regarding detention drain time will apply to this project. As part of the drainage
design, the engineer will be required to show compliance with this statute using a
standard spreadsheet (available on request) that will need to be included in the
drainage report. Upon completion of the project, the engineer will also be required to
upload the approved spreadsheet onto the Statewide Compliance Portal. This will
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apply to any volume based stormwater storage, including extended detention basins.
Response: (United Civil) Noted, no detention is required for this project.
8. Water Quality and Low Impact Development requirements (standard comment):
If the improvements create or modify greater than 1000-square feet of impervious area,
stormwater quality treatment will need to be provided for the new or modified impervious
areas.
All new or modified impervious areas require stormwater quality treatment. In addition,
the City requires the use of Low Impact Development (LID) methods to treat stormwater
quality on all new or redeveloping property, including sites required to be brought into
compliance with the Land Use Code. There are two (2) categories of LID requirements;
the development will need to meet one of the two following options:
1. LID with Permeable Pavers: When using the permeable pavers option, 50% of the
new or modified impervious areas must be treated by LID methods. Of the new or
modified paved areas, 25% must be pervious.
2. LID - without Pavers: 75% of all new or modified impervious areas must be treated
by LID methods. This typically consists of a rain garden or bioretention system, but other
options are allowed.
The remainder of the water quality treatment can be accomplished ‘standard’ or LID
water quality methods. Accepted methods are described in the Fort Collins Stormwater
Criteria Manual (FCSCM), Chapter 7:
http://www.fcgov.com/utilities/business/builders-and-developers/development-forms-gui
delines-regulations/stormwater-criteria
Response: (United Civil) The net increase of impervious area is less than 1,000 sf so
no water quality treatment or LID are required.
9. Erosion control requirements (standard comment):
The erosion control report requirements are in Section 1.3.3, Volume 3, Chapter 7 of the
Fort Collins Stormwater Criteria Manual. If you need clarification concerning this section,
please contact the Erosion Control Inspector, Jesse Schlam at 224-6015 or
jschlam@fcgov.com.
Response: (United Civil) Erosion control has been indicated on the plans.
10. Inspection and maintenance (standard comment):
There will be a final site inspection of the stormwater facilities when the project is
complete and the maintenance is handed over to an HOA or another maintenance
organization. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) for on-going maintenance of all
onsite drainage facilities will be included as part of the Development Agreement. More
information and links can be found at:
http://www.fcgov.com/utilities/what-we-do/stormwater/stormwater-quality/low-impact-dev
elopement
Response: (United Civil) Noted, no proposed drainage facilities have been included in the
design
11. Fees (standard comment):
The 2019 city wide Stormwater development fee (PIF) is $9,142/acre of new impervious
area over 350 square feet and there is a $1,045/acre of site review fee. No fee is
charged for existing impervious area. These fees are to be paid at the time each
building permit is issued. Information on fees can be found at:
http://www.fcgov.com/utilities/business/builders-and-developers/plant-investment-develo
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pment-fees or contact our Utility Fee and Rate Specialists at (970) 416-4252 for
questions on fees. There is also an erosion control escrow required before the
Development Construction permit is issued. The amount of the escrow is determined by
the design engineer, and is based on the site disturbance area, cost of the measures, or
a minimum amount in accordance with the Fort Collins Stormwater Manual.
Response: (United Civil) Noted.
Department: Water-Wastewater Engineering
Contact: Matt Simpson, (970)416-2754, masimpson@fcgov.com
1. Other service district (site specific comment):
This project site is located within the Fort Collins Loveland Water District and the South
Fort Collins Sanitation District for water and sewer service. Please contact them at
(970) 226-3104 for development requirements.
Response: (United Civil) Noted, the District has been contacted
2. Water conservation (standard comment):
The water conservation standards for landscape and irrigation will apply. Information on
these requirements can be found at: http://www.fcgov.com/standards
Response: (BHA) The new landscaping is limited to the small patio area around the front
entry that will be disturbed by construction of the planned building addition. All new plants
indicated are M or L hydrozone species and will have minimal irrigation by expansion of the
existing drip irrigation system.
Department: Environmental Planning
Contact: Stephanie Blochowiak, 970-416-4290, sblochowiak@fcgov.com
1. Generally an Ecological Characterization Study (ECS) is required by City of Fort Collins
Land Use Code (LUC) Section 3.4.1 as the site is within 500 feet of LUC defined
natural habitats and features (ditch, wetlands, aquatic). However, as there are existing
conditions and no expansion into buffer area is proposed, the ECS is waived for this
site. However, please consider the use of native plants to complement the natural
features adjacent to this site.
Response: (BHA) Acknowledged. The new landscaping is limited to the small patio area
around the front entry, so we have used a mix of perennials and flowering shrubs to reflect
the current home-like front entry landscape treatments that the church has maintained in
the past. But we have included some native species in this ornamental landscape and have
used only low to moderate water needs xeric plants.
2. Contact the assigned Development Review Coordinator prior to submittal for the project
if trees may be impacted. A review of trees shall be conducted by City Forestry staff to
determine the status of existing trees and any mitigation requirements that could result
from the proposed development. LUC Section 3.2.1(C) requires developments to
submit a landscape and tree protection plan, and if receiving water service from the
City, an irrigation plan, that: "...(4) protects significant trees, natural systems, and habitat,
and (5) enhances the pedestrian environment. " Note that a significant tree is defined as
one having DBH (Diameter at Breast Height) of six inches or more. Please contact
assigned Development Review Coordinator directly at 970-221-6689 or email
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DRCoord@fcgov.com to schedule a tree inventory site visit.
Response: (BHA) We have met on-site with Forestry staff and have indicated the required
mitigation trees on the planting plan.
3. City of Fort Collins Land Use Code [Section 3.2.1 (E)(3)], requires that to the extent
reasonably feasible, all plans be designed to incorporate water conservation materials
and techniques. This includes use of low-water-use plants and grasses in landscaping
or re-landscaping and reducing bluegrass lawns as much as possible. Native plants and
wildlife-friendly (ex: pollinators, butterflies, songbirds) landscaping and maintenance are
also encouraged. Please refer to the Fort Collins Native Plants document available
online and published by the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department for guidance
on native plants is: http://www.fcgov.com/naturalareas/pdf/nativeplants2013.pdf. Also
see the City of Fort Collins Plant List : https://www.fcgov.com/forestry/plant_list.pdf.
Response: (BHA) The new landscaping is limited to the small patio area around the front
entry, so we have used a mix of perennials and flowering shrubs to reflect the current
home-like front entry landscape treatments that the church has maintained in the past. But
we have included some native species and pollinators in this ornamental landscape and
have used only low to moderate water needs xeric plants.
4. Note in regard to outdoor lighting, especially LED light fixtures, cooler color
temperatures are harsher at night and cause more disruption to circadian (biological)
rhythms for both humans and wildlife. Warmer color temperature (warm white, 3000K or
less) for any LED light fixtures is preferred. Please also consider fixtures with
motion-sensing or dimming capabilities so that light levels can be adjusted as needed.
Site light sources shall be fully shielded and down-directional to minimize up-light, light
spillage and glare [see LUC 3.2.4(D)(3)]. Thank you in advance for supporting City of
Fort Collins Night Sky Objectives. For further information regarding health effects please
see: http://darksky.org/ama-report-affirms-human-health-impacts-from-leds/
Response: (BHA) Based on our subsequent discussions with planning, engineering and
traffic we intend to dedicate ROW along Strauss Cabin Road for future road improvements,
but roadway improvements and parking lot reconfiguration will not be required with this
small addition. Similarly, no changes to existing lighting is planned.
5. Contact the assigned Development Review Coordinator prior to submittal for the project
to discuss trail connections, easements and parks. This project is within 0.25-0.5mi of a
future park and/or trail as shown on the City of Fort Collins Trails Master Plan and as
such the project must comply with LUC Section 3.4.8(C): development plans shall
provide for, accommodate or otherwise connect to, either on-site or off-site, the parks
and trails identified in the Trails Master Plan. Please contact assigned Development
Review Coordinator directly at 970-221-6689 or email DRCoord@fcgov.com to be
connected with appropriate Parks Planning staff prior to submittal.
Response: (BHA) We have confirmed with Parks Planning Dept that no easements or trail
connection improvements are requested at this time.
6. Our city has an established identity as a forward-thinking community that cares about the
quality of life it offers its residents now and generations from now. Thus, the City of Fort
Collins has many sustainability programs and goals that may benefit this project. Of
particular interest may be:
1) ClimateWise Program: http://fcgov.com/climatewise, contact
climatewise@fcgov.com or Kelsey Doan at KDoan@fcgov.com, 970-416-2410
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2) Zero Waste Plan and the Waste Reduction and Recycling Assistance Program
(WRAP): http://fcgov.com/recycling/wrap.php, contact Jonathon Nagel at 970-416-2701
or jnagel@fcgov.com
3) Utilities Building Energy Scoring:
https://www.fcgov.com/utilities/business/building-energy-scoring , contact Kirk Longstein
at 970-416-4325 or klongstein@fcgov.com
4) Solar Rebate Program: www.fcgov.com/solar, contact Rhonda Gatzke at
970-416-2312 or rgatzke@fcgov.com
5) Integrated Design Assistance Program: http://fcgov.com/idap, contact Gary
Schroeder at 970-224-6003 or gschroeder@fcgov.com
6) Nature in the City Program: http://fcgov.com/natureinthecity, contact Stephanie
Kopplin at 970-416-4295 or skopplin@fcgov.com
7) Bike Share Program: http://fcgov.com/bikeshare, contact Stacy Sebeczek at Bike
Fort Collins at stacy@bikefortcollins.org or 970-481-5577
Response: (BHA) Thank you for connecting us and the owner to these programs.ms
Department: Forestry
Contact: Nils Saha, nsaha@fcgov.com
1. 7/15/2019: For PDP
There are existing trees on the property. What are the anticipated impacts on these
trees due to the proposed expansion and renovation? Please schedule an on-site
meeting with City Forestry to obtain tree inventory and mitigation information. Existing
significant trees should be retained to the extent reasonably feasible. This meeting
should occur prior to first-round PDP.
Response: (BHA) We have met on-site with Forestry staff and have indicated the required
mitigation trees on the planting plan.
2. 7/15/2019: FOR PDP
Please provide a landscape plan that meets the Land Use Code 3.2.1 requirements.
This should include the existing tree inventory, any proposed tree removals with their
locations clearly noted and any proposed tree plantings (including species, size, quantity
and method of transplant). The plans should also include the following City of Fort Collins
notes:
General Landscape Notes
Tree Protection Notes
Street Tree Permit Note, when applicable.
These notes are available from the city planner or Nils Saha at City Forestry
(nsaha@fcgov.com).
Required tree sizes and method of transplant:
Canopy Shade Tree: 2.0” caliper balled and burlapped
Evergreen tree: 6.0’ height balled and burlapped
Ornamental tree: 1.5” caliper balled and burlapped
Response: (BHA) We have included this information on the planting plan.
3. 7/15/2019: FOR PDP
If applicable, please include locations of any water or sewer lines on the landscape plan.
Please adjust tree locations to provide for proper tree/utility separation.
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10’ between trees and public water, sanitary, and storm sewer main lines
4’ between trees and gas lines.
Response: (BHA) We have included this information and separations on the planting
plan.
4. 7/15/2019: FOR PDP
If applicable, please provide an “Existing Tree Removal Feasibility Letter” for City
Forestry staff to review. Proposals to remove significant existing trees must provide a
justification letter detailing the reason for tree removal. This is required for all
development projects proposing significant tree removal regardless of the scale of the
project. The purpose of this letter is to provide a document of record with the project’s
approval and for the City to maintain a record of all proposed significant tree removals
and justifications. Existing significant trees within the project’s Limits of Disturbance
(LOD) and within natural area buffer zones shall be preserved to the extent reasonably
feasible. Streets, buildings and lot layouts shall be designed to minimize the disturbance
to significant existing trees.
(Extent reasonably feasible shall mean that, under the circumstances, reasonable efforts
have been undertaken to comply with the regulation, that the costs of compliance clearly
outweigh the potential benefits to the public or would unreasonably burden the proposed
project, and reasonable steps have been undertaken to minimize any potential harm or
adverse impacts resulting from noncompliance with the regulation.) Where it is not
feasible to protect and retain significant existing tree(s) or to transplant them to another
on-site location, the applicant shall replace such tree(s) according to City mitigation
requirements.
Response: (BHA) We have met on-site with Forestry staff and have indicated the required
mitigation trees on the planting plan. An existing tree removal feasibility request is included
with the submittal documents.
Department: Electric Engineering
Contact: Cody Snowdon, 970-416-2306, csnowdon@fcgov.com
1. The project site is currently serviced by PVREA. Please contact them for any comments
regarding your current and proposed electric service.
Response: (Coe Construction) Acknowledged, we will coordinate the power requirements
for the planned addition with PVREA
Department: Technical Services
Contact: Jeff County, 970-221-6588, jcounty@fcgov.com
1. As of January 1, 2015, all development plans are required to be on the NAVD88 vertical
datum. Please make your consultants aware of this, prior to any surveying and/or design
work. Please contact our office for up to date Benchmark Statement format and City
Vertical Control Network information.
Response: (United Civil) The plans have been prepared on the NAVD88 vertical datum.
2. This property is not platted. If submitting a Subdivision Plat for this property/project,
addresses are not acceptable in the Plat title/name. Numbers in numeral form may not
begin the title/name. Please contact our office with any questions.
Response: (United Civil) A subdivision plat has been included in the submittal.