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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES - Workshop Urban Renewal Authority - 1988-10-13BRADFORD PUBLISHING CO. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Town of Estes Park Workshop: Estes Park Urban Renewal Authority and Urban Renewal Plan October 13, 1988 Attending: Facilitator: Mayor Dannels, Trustees Aldrich, Barker, Dickinson, Garrett, Habecker, and Hix, Town Administrator Klaphake Carl Neu/New and Company Mr. Neu reviewed the workshop held October 12, 1988 and outlined procedure to be followed during the workshop. Ann Moss, 5769 Long's Peak Route, Estes Park, CO 80517. Ms. Moss is very happy with the review process as initiated October 12th. Ms. Moss supports EPURA and the URA Plan, the independent EPURA Board, enhancement of the rivers, while maintaining the natural contours a cohesive downtown core, pedestrian enhancement and alternative modes of transportation in the downtown district (not horses). Ms. Moss addressed economic development with regard to federal revisions, and she suggested the shift to "market based" strategies be followed. Ronald Brown, P. O. Box 750, Estes Park, CO 80517. Mr. and Mrs. Brown are recent residents of Estes Park, and he complimented Estes Park on the changes they have witnessed over the years. Several of their friends are also considering retiring in Estes Park which, in his opinion, is an ideal place to live. Robert Aiken, P. O. Box 4676, Estes Park, CO 80517. Through Mr. Aiken's observations, it appears the community is very misinformed concerning the tax increment and financing of EPURA. Mr. Aiken stated beauty does not come cheaply, and that image is very important to Estes Park. Mr. Aiken scheduled the entertain- ment held in Riverside Plaza, and in this capacity, he could always find a parking space, perhaps parking should be addressed by the Town in lieu of EPURA. Sharon Seeley, P. O. Box 958, Estes Park, CO 80517. Ms. Seeley stated some tourists come to Estes Park to visit Rocky Mountain National Park; EPURA has improved the Town to make visits into the National Park more enjoyable. The cost we are now incurring and how the economic benefits come around must be addressed. Discussion on revenue producers which could include the indoor arena, convention center, etal, which may help Estes Park's economic growth should be held. Any parking that is removed should be replaced; close -in parking is a problem. Ms. Seeley suggested the close -in parking spaces be designated for parking meters during the summer season, and a parking structure be constructed along Fall River south of West Elkhorn Avenue. The merchants do hear from various residents who choose not to participate in workshops or public meetings; all comment on parking, traffic, economic development, more taxes, etc. Ms. Seeley also commented on lengthing the tourist season, and not allowing vendor carts in Riverside Plaza. Ross Brown, realtor, P. O. Box 1693, Estes Park, CO 80517. What has been accomplished by EPURA and the Town Board has been magnificent. EPURA should not be discontinued, the responsibil- ity of future projects should be left with both boards, and EPURA should not be consolidated into the Town staff. Mr. Brown does object to the possibility of EPURA adding retail space; economics should determine whether private enterprise should build addi- tional retail space. Parking is a problem. BRADFORD PUBLISHING CO RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Workshop/EPURA and URA Plan - October 13, 1988 - Page two Lou Canaiy, P. O. Box 3228, Estes Park, CO 80517. Mr. Canaiy questioned whether EPURA could construct a building, such as a convention center? Also, what is the net take in taxes? Con- struction of a convention center could help pay impending debts. Perhaps excess funds could be transferred to the Town and used by EPURA to build such a center even if the property is located outside the boundary. Charles Phares, Chairman/EPURA, P. O. Box 1661, Estes Park, CO 80517. Mr. Phares stated EPURA cannot build buildings outside the EPURA boundary. EPURA can develop property inside their boundary; however, at the present time EPURA has no such in- tentions. Mr. Phares confirmed EPURA receives funds from proper- ty taxes and the sales tax increment for an approximate total of $800,000/year. The bonded indebtedness is $3,980,000. Mayor Dannels, Board of Trustees. The Board reiterated their comments of October 12th, and requested public participation at all public meetings. Mayor Dannels advised additional comments could be mailed to the Town for further consideration. Mr. Neu advised the Town Board would conduct a study session October 26th, at 7:00 P.M. All material that was presented will be reviewed, and possible options will be prepared. November 9th, the Town Board will meet to refine said options. A public hearing will be held November 22nd during the Town Board meeting. There being no further testimony, the Workshop was adjourned. Vickie O'Connor, Town Clerk