HomeMy WebLinkAboutPACKET Town Board 2024-01-09The Mission of the Town of Estes Park is to provide high‐quality, reliable services
for the benefit of our citizens, guests, and employees, while being good stewards
of public resources and our natural setting.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES - TOWN OF ESTES PARK
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
7:00 p.m.
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ADVANCED PUBLIC COMMENT
By Public Comment Form: Members of the public may provide written public comment on a specific
agenda item by completing the form found at https://dms.estes.org/forms/TownBoardPublicComment.
The form must be submitted by 12:00 p.m. the day of the meeting in order to be provided to the Town
Board prior to the meeting. All comments will be provided to the Board for consideration during the
agenda item and added to the final packet.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
(Any person desiring to participate, please join the Board in the Pledge of Allegiance).
AGENDA APPROVAL.
PUBLIC COMMENT. (Please state your name and address).
TOWN BOARD COMMENTS / LIAISON REPORTS.
TOWN ADMINISTRATOR REPORT.
CONSENT AGENDA:
1.Bills.
2.Town Board Meeting Minutes and Study Session Minutes dated December 12, 2023.
3.Estes Park Planning Commission Minutes dated November 21, 2023
(acknowledgment only).
4.Resolution 01-24 Public Posting Area Designation.
Prepared 2023-12-29
*Revised
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NOTE: The Town Board reserves the right to consider other appropriate items not available at the time the agenda was
prepared.
5.Transportation Advisory Board Minutes dated November 15, 2023 (acknowledgment
only).
ACTION ITEMS:
1.RESOLUTION 99-23 LEVYING PROPERTY TAXES FOR 2024 BUDGET YEAR.
Director Creamean.
A Resolution Levying Property Taxes for the Year 2024 to Help Defray the Costs of
Government for the Town of Estes Park, Colorado.
REQUEST TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION:
For discussion of a personnel matter - Section 24-6-402(4}(f}, C.RS. and not involving: any
specific employees who have requested discussion of the matter in open session; any
member of the Town Board; the appointment of any person to fill an office of the Town Board;
or personnel policies that do not require discussion of matters personal to particular
employees – Town Attorney Contract.
ADJOURN.
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Town of Estes Park, Larimer County, Colorado, December 12, 2023
Minutes of a Regular meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Town of Estes
Park, Larimer County, Colorado. Meeting held in the Town Hall in said Town of
Estes Park on the 12th day of December, 2023.
Present: Wendy Koenig, Mayor
Marie Cenac, Mayor Pro Tem
Trustees Kirby Hazelton
Frank Lancaster
Barbara MacAlpine
Patrick Martchink
Cindy Younglund
Also Present: Travis Machalek, Town Administrator
Jason Damweber, Deputy Town Administrator
Dan Kramer, Town Attorney
Kimberly Disney, Recording Secretary
Absent: None
Mayor Koenig called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
REQUEST TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION:
It was moved and seconded (Younglund/MacAlpine) to enter into executive session
for a conference with an attorney for the Board for the purpose of receiving legal
advice on specific legal questions – Section 24-6-402(4}(b}, C.R.S. – Petitions for
Initiated Ordinances Regarding Development Applications and Noise, and it passed
unanimously.
The Board entered into executive session at 5:32 p.m. and concluded the executive
session at 6:57 p.m.
Mayor Koenig reconvened the regular meeting at 7:10 p.m. and all desiring to do so,
recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
AGENDA APPROVAL.
It was moved and seconded (Hazelton/Cenac) to approve the Agenda, and it passed
unanimously.
PUBLIC COMMENTS.
Bill Brown/Town citizen and Todd Jirsa/Town citizen spoke on the circulation of an
initiated ordinance petition regarding noise, history of the current noise ordinance, and
reasons for the petition including the number of complaints made, the number of citations
issued for noise violations, and the need for objective sound measurements.
John Meissner/Town citizen spoke regarding racial inequities of the Rocky Mountain
region including Estes Park, racial and religious restrictive covenants, and he requested
the Town Board hold the continued Study Session item regarding racial covenants at the
first meeting of 2024.
TRUSTEE COMMENTS.
Board comments were heard and have been summarized: Visit Estes Park met and
discussed upcoming Catch the Glow in the Park events and a grant they received in
conjunction with Northern Colorado Tourism Partners to promote winter activities in
Northern Colorado. The upcoming Trustee Talk would be hosted by Mayor Pro Tem
Cenac and Trustee Younglund with topics including serving on the Board of Trustees.
The Police Auxiliary met and delivered Blue Santa gifts to 104 individuals. The Estes Park
Economic Development Corporation met with investors and discussed options of
partnering with the Estes Chamber of Commerce for economic development. A Candidate
Forum would be held January 2, 2024 in the Board Room. Platte River Power Authority
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Board of Trustees – December 12, 2023 – Page 2
would meet to discuss takeaways from the 2023 United Nations Climate Change
Conference.
TOWN ADMINISTRATOR REPORT.
Town Administrator Machalek requested, and it was determined to schedule Study
Session discussions on the Noise Ordinance and Future Use of Town-Owned Property
at Elm Road and Moraine Avenue for January 9, 2024, the Focus on Museum Collections
Care for January 23, 2024, and CIRSA Liability and Risk as an Elected Official for May
14, 2024. It was also determined to add the discussions on Hosted Short-Term Rentals
and Economic Development Funding and Policy 671 to Items Approved Unscheduled.
CONSENT AGENDA:
1. Bills.
2. Town Board Minutes dated November 28, 2023 and Town Board Study Session
Minutes dated November 28, 2023.
3. Transportation Advisory Board Minutes dated October 18, 2023 (acknowledgment
only).
4. Resolution 105-23 Professional Services Contract Extension with Ayres
Associates for Planning Consulting Services.
5. Resolution 106-23 Renew Professional Services Contract Amendment Five with
SAFEbuilt Colorado, LLC for 2024 Builiding Services.
6. Resolution 107-23 Officially Scheduling the Regular Municipal Election – April 2,
2024.
7. Resolution 108-23 Service Contract for High-Voltage Power Line Tree Trimming
Services with Adam’s Tree Service, First Year (2024) $376,396.80, Budgeted.
8. Request to Continue Resolution 99-23 Setting the Mill Levy for the 2024 Budget
Year to January 9, 2024.
It was moved and seconded (Younglund/Cenac) to approve the Consent Agenda with
the removal of Consent Agenda Item 2 for further discussion, and it passed
unanimously.
It was moved and seconded (Martchink/MacAlpine) to approve Consent Agenda Item
2, and it passed with Mayor Pro Tem Cenac and Trustee Younglund abstaining.
REPORTS AND DISCUSSION ITEMS: (Outside Entities).
1. ESTES PARK HEALTH UPDATE ON HOME HEALTH, HOSPICE, AND NON-
MEDICAL HOME CARE. Estes Park Health Chairman Batey and CEO Carda
presented an update on home health, hospice, and non-medical home care. They
highlighted the number of providers in the community and the need for these
services, decreased funding, the difference between these types of care, and
urged patients to be proactive in connecting with care providers. The Board
discussed how citizens can access care for these services, the number of
providers located in Estes Park, reasons for outsourcing these services, and
discussions on decreasing the Hospital District’s mill levy.
ACTION ITEMS:
1. ORDINANCE 13-23 AMENDING ESTES PARK MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION
2.20.010 COMPENSATION OF MAYOR, MAYOR PRO TEM, AND TRUSTEES.
Mayor Koenig opened the public hearing and Town Clerk Williamson presented
Ordinance 13-23 to amend the compensation for newly elected officials in 2024
and codifying the process to determine future increases. She highlighted historical
review and adjustments to Town Board compensation over the years and previous
Study Session discussions on options. The ordinance would adjust compensation
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Board of Trustees – December 12, 2023 – Page 3
for Board positions as follows: Mayor $15,000, Mayor Pro Tem $12,800, and
Trustees $11,100, and compensation adjustments would use the Consumer Price
Index in future election cycles. The Board discussed whether this would be
considered a conflict of interest if a current Board member ran for reelection, the
importance of compensating members of the Board, and the increased appeal to
run for election.
John Meissner/Town citizen stated his appreciation of the discussion on conflicts
of interest.
Mayor Koenig closed the public hearing and it was moved and seconded
(Hazelton/Cenac) to approve Ordinance 13-23, and it passed with Trustee
MacAlpine abstaining.
2. RESOLUTION 109-23 SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET APPROPRIATIONS #6 TO
THE 2023 BUDGET. Director Creamean presented Resolution 109-23 to approve
budget appropriations including: increased costs for a budgeted street sweeper,
transfer to the Estes Valley Recreation and Parks District for the Community
Center offset by an increase in sales tax revenue, volumetric and pricing changes
for purchased power and bucket trucks, increased costs for a budgeted towable
air compressor, and increased medical claims for 2023. The Board discussed the
Power and Communication Fund increase and it was moved and seconded
(Hazelton/Younglund) to approve Resolution 109-23, and it passed with Trustee
MacAlpine abstaining.
3. ORDINANCE 14-23 AMENDING CHAPTER 10.06 OF THE ESTES PARK
MUNICIPAL CODE ON PAID PARKING. Mayor Koenig opened the public hearing
and Supervisor Klein presented Ordinance 14-23 to amend the date by which the
Parking Manager shall propose parking rates for the following season from
December 15th to March 15th of each subsequent year. He highlighted the paid
parking season extending into October, increased usage towards the end of the
season, and staff’s need for more time to review efficacy and data prior to
presenting a recommendation to the Town Board.
Christy Crosser/Pinewood Springs citizen spoke regarding her service as a
Parking Ambassador for the 2023 Season and stated her concerns with pedestrian
traffic especially in construction zones.
Town Attorney Kramer made a point of clarification regarding the stricken material
referenced in the ordinance, which was inadvertently removed, and stated this
would be corrected in the final version of the Ordinance. Mayor Koenig closed the
public hearing and it was moved and seconded (Younglund/MacAlpine) to
approve Ordinance 14-23, and it passed unanimously.
4. RESOLUTION 110-23 6E FUNDING FOR A CHILDCARE FUNDING
AGREEMENT WITH THE ESTES VALLEY RECREATION AND PARK
DISTRICT. Manager Bangs presented Resolution 110-23 for a 6E Funding
expenditure and agreement with the Estes Valley Recreation and Park District to
support out-of-school programming as outlined in the 2023 Childcare Funding
Plan. She highlighted the district’s current out-of-school programming, expansion
of a current program as a pilot program for the district, and financial impacts. The
Board discussed whether these types of funds could be used for a swim program
and how funds would be used should the pilot program not be successful during
the term of the agreement. It was moved and seconded (Younglund/Cenac) to
approve Resolution 110-23, and it passed unanimously.
5. ORDINANCE 15-23 AMENDING ESTES PARK MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION
2.04 REGARDING RESTRICTIONS ON CURRENT AND FORMER MEMBERS
OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES BEING EMPLOYED BY THE TOWN. Mayor
Koenig opened the public hearing and Town Administrator Machalek presented
Ordinance 15-23 to prohibit current and former Town Board members from being
employed by the Town for one year from the end of their term on the Board. He
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Board of Trustees – December 12, 2023 – Page 4
highlighted previous Study Session discussions, the Board’s direction, and review
of market communities’ policies. The Board discussed the limiting nature of the
ordinance to the potential applicant pool of a position, and the conflict of interest
which could occur from not having a cooling off period. Mayor Koenig closed the
public hearing and it was moved and seconded (Hazelton/Younglund) to
approve Ordinance 15-23, and it passed with Trustee Martchink voting “No”.
REQUEST TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION:
It was moved and seconded (Hazelton/MacAlpine) to enter into executive session to
discuss purchase, acquisition, lease, transfer or sale of any real, personal, or other
property of interest – Section 24-6-402(4}(a}, C.R.S., and for a conference with an
attorney for the Board for the purposes of receiving legal advice on specific legal
questions - Section 24-6-402(4}(b}, C.R.S, and for the purpose of determining
positions relative to matters that may be subject to negotiations, developing
strategy for negotiations, and/or instructing negotiators - Section 24-6-402(4}(e},
C.R.S. – Potential real property purchase of 1230 Big Thompson Avenue for
relocation of the Police Department, and it passed unanimously.
The Board would re-enter the regular session to adjourn the regular meeting at the
conclusion of the of the executive session.
The Mayor recessed the meeting at 8:45 p.m. The Board entered the executive session
at 8:55 p.m. and concluded at 9:57 p.m.
Mayor Koenig reconvened the regular meeting at 9:57 p.m. Whereupon Mayor Koenig
adjourned the meeting at 10:00 p.m.
Wendy Koenig, Mayor
Kimberly Disney, Recording Secretary
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Town of Estes Park, Larimer County, Colorado December 12, 2023
Minutes of a Study Session meeting of the TOWN BOARD of the Town of
Estes Park, Larimer County, Colorado. Meeting held at Town Hall in the
Board Room in said Town of Estes Park on the 12th day of December,
2023.
Board: Mayor Koenig, Mayor Pro Tem Cenac, Trustees Hazelton,
Lancaster, MacAlpine, Martchink, and Younglund
Attending: Mayor Koenig, Mayor Pro Tem Cenac, Trustees Hazelton,
Lancaster, MacAlpine, Martchink and Younglund
Also Attending: Town Administrator Machalek, Deputy Town Administrator
Damweber, Town Attorney Kramer, and Deputy Town Clerk
Beers
Absent: None
Mayor Koenig called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m.
ENCORE ARTS UPDATE.
The Fine Arts Guild stated interest in building the performing arts center identified as
“Encore!”. Tim Phillips, Fine Arts Guild representative reviewed the project area which
would take up a significant portion of the land in Stanley Park, would require the
relocation of many existing Town facilities, and a new entrance off the roundabout at
Community Drive and US Highway 36. Highlights of the presentation included: Support
for the project by the local arts community; how interactive, immersive art has gained
popularity throughout the world; new attractions the project would bring to the arts
community and public; a location for local artists to display their work, needed space for
rehearsals, and the numerous spaces would provide a sound buffer between theaters
without disruption across performance spaces. The Fine Arts Guild requested a $1
annual long-term land lease for the project space. He stated construction funds would
be raised through private donations, public contributions, crowd-sourcing, investment
backing, naming rights and traditional financing provider. “Inner Sanctum” would provide
on-going operations funding for the center, and the Estes Arts District would continue to
be a supporter. He reviewed the initial construction estimates at approximately $15
million and an additional $3-5 million for design of the inner sanctum, salaries for a
project manager and administrative assistant, and a year of operational costs. He
reviewed financial model projections based on ticket price points for approximately 310
days of operation per year. He requested the Board support through the donation of
land. Board comments and questions have been summarized: What the exit strategy
would be if the project does not meet projections; the Board encouraged a review of
patronage and projections to develop a realistic approach of the first years of operation;
more details were requested on the cost estimates for the “Inner Sanctum” and whether
design would be outsourced, and the difference between this application and previous
unsuccessful applications. Board consensus was to review relocation of existing
facilities and financial impacts and risks prior to public outreach for the Stanley Park
Master Plan update in early 2024.
DRAFT ARTS MASTER PLAN.
Estes Arts District President Kendall Akin and Executive Director Greg Miles presented
a review of the draft Estes Park Arts Master Plan (AIM). Miles stated the implementation
of AIM would seamlessly integrate art into the Town’s identity. The plan was drawn from
the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade. Creative
industries included non and for-profit organizations and independent self-employed
creatives. Identified industries included design, film and media, heritage, literary and
publishing, performing arts, visual arts and crafts, culinary arts and brewing. He stated
the allure of the Town was historically promoted through artists and reviewed the
current art supporting aspects throughout the community, impacts of art, community
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Town Board Study Session – December 12, 2023 – Page 2
collaboration and goals for AIM. President Akin stated the plan would fulfil key
strategies identified in the Estes Valley Comprehensive Plan, encourage community
collaboration and elevate the Art in Public Places program. Due to time constraints the
Board was in agreement to continue the discussion to a 2024 study session.
RACIAL COVENANTS RESEARCH AND ORDINANCE. The item was continued to a
future meeting.
TRUSTEE & ADMINISTRATOR COMMENTS & QUESTIONS.
None.
FUTURE STUDY SESSION AGENDA ITEMS.
Future study session agenda items would be discussed at the regular meeting.
There being no further business, Mayor Koenig adjourned the meeting at 5:11 p.m.
Bunny Victoria Beers, Deputy Town Clerk
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Town of Estes Park, Larimer County, Colorado, November 21, 2023
Minutes of a Regular meeting of the ESTES PARK PLANNING COMMISSION of the
Town of Estes Park, Larimer County, Colorado. Meeting held in said Town of Estes Park
on the 21 day of November 2023.
Commission: Chair Matt Comstock, Vice-Chair Matthew Heiser, Charles
Cooper, Chris Pawson, David Shirk
Attending: Vice-Chair Heiser, Commissioners Cooper, Pawson, Shirk,
Interim Community Development Director Jason Damweber,
Planner I Kara Washam, Recording Secretary Karin
Swanlund, Town Attorney Dan Kramer, Town Board Liaison
Barbara MacAlpine
Absent: Comstock
Vice Chair Heiser, acting as Chair, called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m.
AGENDA APPROVAL
It was moved and seconded (Pawson/Cooper) to approve the agenda. The motion
passed 4-0.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
None
INTRODUCTIONS
CONSENT AGENDA APPROVAL
It was requested by Vice-Chair Heiser to fix the attendance record and change a word on
page four from prior to conflict. The minutes were changed to reflect this request.
It was moved and seconded (Shirk/Cooper) to approve the consent agenda. The
motion passed 4-0.
ACTION ITEMS
1. Preliminary Plat TBD Raven Avenue Planner Washam
Habitat for Humanity of the St. Vrain Valley, Inc., Owner/Applicant
This item was continued from the October 17, 2023 Planning Commission Meeting.
Habitat for Humanity plans to develop the five proposed lots with single-family
residences in the R-1 zone, a use-by-right.
Habitat for Humanity will construct the dwellings and sell the homes to individual,
qualified buyers. §4.3.D.4 of the Estes Park Development Code (EPDC) states, "All
developments in the R-1 District shall be subject to the attainable housing limitations for
rental and owner occupancy outlined in §11.4.C." A Deed Restriction or Restrictive
Covenant and Agreement is required per §11.4.E.4. This will be finalized and recorded
with the subsequent Raven Subdivision final plat.
Open space is required per §4.3.D.1 of the EPDC at a minimum of 15% of the total
subdivision. The Applicant proposes a conservation easement for the open space on Lot
5, with the Estes Park Housing Authority serving as the Grantee of the easement. This
will be finalized and recorded with the subsequent Raven Subdivision final plat. The open
space is approximately 6,288 square feet and is 17.5% of the total subdivision. The open
space will be used for passive recreation and accessed from the proposed sidewalk along
Raven Avenue. Staff recommended approval with the following condition: a conservation
easement agreement for the open space area on Lot 5 is reached between the Applicant
and the Town before the Raven Subdivision Preliminary Plat goes before the Town Board.
DISCUSSION:
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Planning Commission – November 21, 2023 – Page 2
Dave Emerson, Applicant, was available for questions.
Lonnie Sheldon, Van Horn Engineering, requested the wording be changed from a
conservation easement to a maintenance agreement/easement.
Cooper asked for confirmation that an easement meant the property would never be
developed. Town Attorney Kramer responded that this is an exception to the provision
that open space cannot be provided within someone's lot. To avoid an HOA, the
conservation easement was requested. This issue has not been fully resolved. The
conservation easement and stormwater easement are not mutually exclusive. Shirk
expressed unease with the stormwater easement location being within the conservation
easement. Kramer stated that the easement can be used for stormwater management.
Shirk had concerns with the willows and limits of disturbance and asked for more
information on preserving the willows and what type of detention pond would be used.
Sheldon explained that this is a porous landscape detention basin (aka Rain Garden),
taking the peak flow of the outfall and letting the pond release slowly.
Jennifer Waters, Town Civil Engineer, explained that Larimer County stormwater
standards serve as an appendix to the Mile High Flood District stormwater standards and
were updated this year. A Rain Garden is typically used for detention basins in this area
because it is a good fit and economically feasible.
It was moved and seconded (Shirk/Cooper) to forward a recommendation of
approval to the Town Board of Trustees of the Raven Subdivision Preliminary
Plat, according to findings and conditions of fact recommended by Staff with the
additional requirement that the stormwater exhibit presented during this hearing
be included into the stormwater plan. The motion passed 3-1, with Pawson
abstaining.
2. Amended Development Plan Max Storage Planner Washam
DJMC LLC, Owner/Applicant
This item was continued from the October 17, 2023 Planning Commission Meeting.
The Applicant has submitted an Amended Development Plan application and requests
consideration of a minor modification to the landscape plan of the approved
development plan. The approved development plan proposed planting eight (8) trees
along Acacia Drive. With the proximity of an existing sewer easement and insurance
requirements for trees to be a minimum of ten (10) feet from the structure, the Applicant
is unable to install trees in this location. The Applicant proposes shrubs in place of trees
in this location, at a ratio of three (3) shrubs to one (1) tree for a total of twenty-four (24)
additional shrubs along Acacia Drive.
DISCUSSION:
Jes Reetz, Cornerstone Engineering, was available to answer questions.
Kramer clarified that this is a Minor Modification of a Development Plan. Development
code 7.5.c.2 does not list too many review criteria as long as the landscape plan is
satisfactory.
Pawson and Heiser expressed their appreciation and thanks to the Applicant for their
work in redesigning this plan.
It was moved and seconded (Pawson/Cooper) to approve the MAX Storage
Amended Development Plan, according to findings recommended by Staff. The
motion passed 4-0.
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Planning Commission – November 21, 2023 – Page 3
REPORTS:
Steve Careccia will arrive on January 8, 2024, as the new Community Development
Director.
There being no further business, Vice-Chair Heiser adjourned the meeting at 2:25 p.m.
_______________________________
Vice-Chair Heiser
Karin Swanlund, Recording Secretary
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RESOLUTION 01-24
PUBLIC POSTING AREA DESIGNATION
WHEREAS, section 24-6-402(2)(c) of the Colorado Revised Statutes requires a
municipality to designate a public place to post notices of its meetings, and encourages
the posting place to be on a public website of the Town; and
WHEREAS, the Town designates the www.estes.org/boardsandmeetings page of
the Town’s website as the public place for Posting Notices of Town Meetings through this
Resolution 01-24; and
WHEREAS, in the event of a power or internet outage, the Town designates the
main entrance to Town Hall as the Public Place for Posting Notices of Town Meetings.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF
THE TOWN OF ESTES PARK, COLORADO:
That the www.estes.org/boardsandmeetings page of the Town’s website is hereby
designated as the Public Place for Posting Notices of Town Meetings. In the event the
Town is unable to post a notice online in exigent or emergency circumstances such as a
power outage or an interruption in internet service that prevents the public from accessing
the notice online, notices may be posted at the main entrance of Town Hall, located at
170 MacGregor Avenue, Estes Park, Colorado.
DATED this day of , 2024.
TOWN OF ESTES PARK
Mayor
ATTEST:
Town Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Town Attorney
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Town of Estes Park, Larimer County, Colorado, November 15, 2023
Minutes of a Regular meeting of the TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY
BOARD of the Town of Estes Park, Larimer County, Colorado. Meeting held
in the Municipal Building in said Town of Estes Park on the 15th day of
November, 2023.
Board: Chair Belle Morris; Vice-Chair Kristen Ekeren; Members Javier Bernal,
Jessica Ferko, Ann Finley, Larry Gamble, Linda Hanick, Mark Igel, and
Gordon Slack; Trustee Patrick Martchink; Staff Liaison Greg Muhonen
Attending: Chair Morris; Members Bernal, Finley, Gamble, Hanick, and Slack; Director
Muhonen; Manager Solesbee; Engineer Bailey; Supervisor Klein;
Recording Secretary McDonald; Paul Hornbeck, Community Development
Planner; Public Attendees Deb Dufty, Michael Melanson, and Kristine L.
Poppitz
Absent: Member Ferko, Member Igel
Chair Morris called the meeting to order at 12:05 p.m.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
TRUSTEE LIAISON UPDATE
Trustee Martchink reported that the Town Board approved Ordinance 10-23 mitigating
impacts of downtown construction on downtown businesses and affirmed support for
continuing the 1% sales tax renewal with a modification to the originally proposed funds
allocation. The 2024 ballot language for the sales tax renewal will be formally set in
January but is eligible to be challenged by citizen action groups before the April vote.
Trustee Martchink briefed the TAB on the Town Board’s reasons for changing the
proposed funds allocation, and also indicated that neither he nor Mayor Koenig plans to
run in the April 2024 municipal election.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES DATED OCTOBER 18, 2023
It was moved and seconded (Gamble/Slack) to approve the October 18, 2023,
minutes, and it passed unanimously.
MOBILITY SERVICES UPATE
Manager Solesbee advised that the ADA Transition Plan public meeting took place on
November 9 but that the draft plan could be accessed and commented upon through the
Town website (www.estes.org/ada). The plan’s original scope was expanded to include
on-street parking and transit stops.
Two firms responded to the request for proposals (RFP) for the Visitor Center Parking Lot
Redesign / US 34 Corridor Study. The proposals are being reviewed by staff and the
Selection Committee; next steps are discussing the budget and negotiating fees.
Manager Solesbee met with the Transportation Management Organization (TMO) to
discuss relationship building with Estes Park and other communities that may wish to
participate in the TMO efforts without financially committing as official members of the US
34 Coalition. The North Front Range Metropolitan Planning Organization (NFRMPO) is
developing the intergovernmental agreements (IGAs) required for non-member
communities to participate in the TMO and is also seeking a consulting firm to develop
the TMO bylaws and handle start-up administrative and marketing tasks.
The Big Horn Parking Structure RFP is under director review, and the project itself will be
led by a new Public Works position, limited-term Project Manager.
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Transportation Advisory Board – November 15, 2023 – Page 2
Grant agreements for the Trolley Barn project and Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV)
Transition Plan are expected from the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) by
March.
The Town of Estes Park is one of nine Colorado agencies to be awarded $100k in 2024
Federal Transit Administration 5311 Rural Area Formula Funds for expansion efforts.
Discussion points included why Estes Park is not an official member of the US 34
Coalition; the Town’s reputation for responsiveness and good stewardship of grant
funding; and how model communities will be used to develop the ZEV Transition Plan.
TRANSPORTATION PLAN UPDATE
Manager Solesbee reported that the Town’s Transportation Plan (TP) survey postcard
was handed out at the Dia de los Muertos event, National Philanthropy Day, the ADA
Transition Plan meeting, and the recent trolley event for Estes Valley Investment in
Childhood Success (EVICS). Public engagement with the online survey and mapping tool
is good. Staff is now reviewing Kimley-Horn’s draft Existing Conditions and Economic
Conditions/Demographic summary.
Discussion points included functionality aspects of the TP’s mapping tool; how to
encourage further public engagement with the survey through early January, particularly
for those who don’t use the computer; and the possibility of promoting the TP and survey
with a utility billing mailer that invites different methods of response.
2023 PAID PARKING PROGRAM YEAR-END RESULTS
Supervisor Klein walked the TAB through the “Seasonal Paid Parking Program: 2023
Year-End Results” packet report. Presentation points included a review of the program’s
four goals; the impact of downtown construction on all Town parking lots; how staff carried
out the operational focus on communication strategies throughout the summer; insight
into the peak occupancy data for all paid and free lots on weekends compared to
weekdays; data measuring the parking activity of permit holders; the breakdown of
program revenue and expenses; opportunities through which the program engaged
customers and stakeholders; the strong partnership with the EVL; and the program’s key
takeaways. The same report will be shared at the November 28 Town Board meeting,
and an amendment to the program’s annual decision deadline (from December 31 to
March 15) will be presented at the December 12 Town Board meeting.
Discussion points included the “sweet spot” of 85 percent lot occupancy, which allows
prospective parkers to feel confident in finding a spot; parking structure usage trends;
Local Permit usage data, which did not reflect an increase of activity (weekends or
otherwise) with the added hour of exemption; the willingness of customers to stay-and-
pay in “good” spaces; the staff achievement of 98% positive feedback from customers;
the strain of Bond Park weekend events on the program in September and October; and
the transit program achievement of nearly 100k riders, which was credited in part to the
electric trolleys, vehicle wraps, YMCA route, and the Zero Fare for Better Air campaign.
Discussion points included the monitoring of kiosk skimmers for security issues; signage
methods used when the parking structure was full; ParkMobile app issues for Apple Pay
users in Estes Park; and parking structure clearance and how this is communicated to
approaching vehicles.
Director Muhonen advised that, after analyzing the 2023 program data and the ongoing
impact of major construction downtown, Town staff determined that there will be no
program changes made for the 2024 paid parking season. This decision also means that
the 2024 Town Strategic Plan will not include implementing phases 3 and 4 of the
Downtown Parking Management Plan (Objective 4.A.1). Instead, the 2024 paid parking
program will feature communication and signage improvements, expanded transit
services, and an increase in seasonal staff. It was agreed that making no changes for the
2024 season was a reasonable, balance-based decision for the community.
ENGINEERING UPDATE
Due to time considerations, Engineer Bailey’s report was brief.
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Transportation Advisory Board – November 15, 2023 – Page 3
For the Cleave Street Improvements project, Xcel Energy’s contractor is awaiting a final
design for the gas line relocation. The Town’s Power & Communications Department will
perform underground work in December. Estes Park Sanitation District’s (EPSD)
chemical treatment of their restored trench is going well. Street construction is expected
to begin in February or March.
Construction for the Graves Avenue Improvements/Safe Routes to School project is
planned for summer 2024.
ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATE
Director Muhonen reported that the new Public Works position of Project Manager has
been approved for recruitment. Additionally, he clarified the final allocation to be proposed
for the 1% sales tax renewal allocation: 46% street maintenance; 28% stormwater
infrastructure; 12.5% trail expansion and maintenance; 9% wildfire mitigation; and 4.5%
upgrading overhead electrical lines. The TAB agreed that it was not necessary to
schedule a special meeting to further discuss this topic.
TAB MEETING TIME DISCUSSION
Regarding the email “survey” of possible time changes for the TAB’s regular meeting,
Chair Morris reported that members mostly expressed flexibility and the overall desire to
encourage the best participation from members as well as the public. It was agreed that
the time change could be discussed again when the board term ends for some members
on March 31, 2024. Meanwhile, the public can be encouraged to use the TAB’s online
public comment form, and task forces can be formed as necessary for TAB-focused
topics.
OTHER BUSINESS
As introduced by Member Gamble, it was agreed that public input provided at any meeting
should, if necessary, be featured as a formal item on the following month’s agenda.
Recording Secretary McDonald advised that the December 20 meeting would feature the
TAB’s annual appreciation meal, and that the June 2024 regular meeting date conflicts
with the Town’s Juneteenth holiday closure.
There being no further business, Chair Morris adjourned the meeting at 2:02 p.m.
/s/Lani McDonald, Recording Secretary
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FINANCE Memo
To: Honorable Mayor Koenig
Board of Trustees
Through: Town Administrator Machalek
From: Jeremy Creamean, Finance Director
Date: January 9, 2024
RE: Resolution 99-23 Levying Property Taxes for the 2024 Budget Year
(Mark all that apply)
PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCE LAND USE
CONTRACT/AGREEMENT RESOLUTION OTHER______________
QUASI-JUDICIAL YES NO
Objective:
To seek approval for the mill levy for 2023 property taxes receivable in 2024.
Present Situation:
The town budget for 2024 has already been approved. This resolution is to certify the
mill levy for property taxes receivable in 2024, as well as to approve a temporary mill
levy reduction to bring the mill levy down to the level budgeted for in 2024, based on the
changes that have been made to the assessed valuation by the State legislature.
Proposal:
The town will levy property taxes at a rate of 1.822 mills upon each dollar of the total
valuation of all taxable property within the town for the year 2023, as assessed by the
County Assessor. These property taxes are payable in 2024.
Furthermore, in order to reduce the impact of the most recent reassessment of property
values, the town will voluntarily institute a temporary mill levy reduction of 0.444 mills.
The net impact of the mill levy, less the temporary mill levy reduction, is to bring the
town’s property tax revenue into line with the tax revenues received in 2023 for the 2022
mill levy, plus new construction.
Advantages:
The Town will be able to certify its mill levy with the county in a timely manner in
accordance with state law.
Disadvantages:
None identified.
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Action Recommended:
Staff recommends approval of Resolution 99-23.
Finance/Resource Impact:
This will bring the town’s property tax revenue into line with the amount previously
approved as part of the 2024 budget.
Level of Public Interest
Public interest is expected to be low.
Sample Motion:
I move for the approval/denial of Resolution 99-23.
Attachments:
1. Resolution 99-23
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RESOLUTION 99-23
A RESOLUTION LEVYING PROPERTY TAXES FOR THE
YEAR 2023 TO HELP DEFRAY THE COSTS OF GOVERNMENT
FOR THE TOWN OF ESTES PARK, COLORADO FOR THE 2024 BUDGET YEAR
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees of the Town of Estes Park adopted the annual
budget in accordance with the Local Government Budget Law on November 14, 2023;
and
WHEREAS, the amount of money necessary to balance the budget for general
operating purposes from property tax revenue is $445,314; and
WHEREAS, the 2023 valuation for assessment for the Town of Estes Park as
certified by the County Assessor is $332,864,543.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF
THE TOWN OF ESTES PARK, COLORADO:
Section 1: That for the purpose of meeting all general operating expenses of the
Town of Estes Park during the 2024 budget year, there is hereby levied a tax of 1.822
mills upon each dollar of the total valuation for assessment of all taxable property within
the Town for the year 2023.
Section 2: That for the purpose of voluntarily lowering the impact of property
reassessments during budget year 2023, the is hereby levied a temporary tax credit/mill
levy reduction of 0.444 mills.
Section 3: That the Finance Director is hereby authorized and directed to certify
to the County Commissioners of Larimer County, Colorado, the mill levies for the Town
of Estes Park as hereinabove determined and set, recognizing that the amounts in the
whereas clauses above may be recalculated as needed upon receipt of the final
(December) certification of valuation from the Larimer County Assessor.
DATED this ____ day of , 2024.
TOWN OF ESTES PARK
Mayor
ATTEST:
Town Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Town Attorney
ATTACHMENT 1
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