HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES Estes Park Planning Commission 2025-03-18 Town of Estes Park, Larimer County, Colorado, March 18, 2025
Minutes of a Regular meeting of the ESTES PARK PLANNING COMMISSION of the
Town of Estes Park, Larimer County, Colorado. Meeting was held in said Town of Estes
Park on March 18, 2025.
Commission: Chair Charles Cooper, Vice Chair David Arterburn, Dick
Mulhern, Chris Pawson
Attending: Commissioners Cooper, Arterburn, Mulhern, Community
Development Director Steve Careccia, Planner Kara
Washam, Town Attorney Dan Kramer, Recording Secretary
Karin Swanlund, Town Board Liaison Frank Lancaster.
Absent: Pawson
Chair Cooper called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m. There were eight people in the
audience.
INTRODUCTIONS
AGENDA APPROVAL
It was moved and seconded (Cooper/Mulhern) to approve the agenda. The motion
passed 3-0.
CONSENT AGENDA APPROVAL
It was moved and seconded (Arterburn/Mulhern) to approve the consent
agenda. The motion passed 3-0.
PUBLIC COMMENT: none
DISCUSSION: Scott Moulton, Executive Director Estes Park Housing Authority
Moulton began his presentation by explaining the complexities surrounding housing
discussions. He referenced a quote highlighting empathy within housing considerations,
stressing that the conversation should not only focus on 'sticks and bricks' but also on
how housing supports community members and families.
Explanations of key housing terminologies:
-Affordable Housing: Defined as housing costs that do not exceed 30% of a household's
gross income.
-Attainable Housing: Generally refers to housing available to those earning 150% of Area
Median Income (AMI) or lower.
-Workforce Housing: Defined specifically for working individuals over 18 working a
minimum of 30 hours per week within the Estes Park School District Boundary..
Economic Considerations in Housing
Moulton said that zoning laws make it risky and expensive for builders to create new
housing. He pointed out the possibility that Development Code rules often don't match
people's needs, making it hard to build enough homes.
The issue of past density bonuses being underutilized due to economic restrictions
imposed on developers was mentioned. Moulton feels offering developers extra
incentives or density bonuses could spur development and address the housing shortage.
Housing Needs Assessment
Findings from the 2023 Housing Needs Assessment highlighted that by 2030, there is a
projected need for 2,720 additional housing units in the Estes Park area. However, the
current development pipeline only reflects 350 units. He recommended a multifaceted
approach that included repurposing existing properties rather than relying solely on new
Planning Commission – March 18, 2025 – Page 2
construction. Also mentioned was that divorce adds additional needs to the housing
shortage.
Proposed Developments and Local Initiatives
Future projects spearheaded by EPHA, including development at Fish Hatchery, were
also discussed. The planning process for this project involves public meetings aimed at
collecting community feedback. He pointed out that while it is essential for new projects
to align with community expectations, current development rules may restrict the ability
to achieve the most desirable results.
We can't assume we will "build our way out of the housing shortage." He noted the
EPHA's recent efforts in converting short-term rental properties into long-term housing
units, which allowed added inventory to meet pressing needs more quickly. The
Comprehensive Plan should be used as a guiding document. Planned Unit Developments
give greater control over what can be required and allow developers to be more flexible.
Commissioner Comments/Questions
Incorrect/improper use of housing terms by the media and the public.
AMI numbers and how to interpret them to the correct housing term.
Clarify what percentage of homes are deed restricted with a density bonus.
What factors were considered in the Housing Study, i.e., commuters?
Where will the land come from for the shortfall of housing?
Give Staff input on where Development Code improvements can be made.
Moulton expressed his willingness to return for future discussions and emphasized the
importance of open communication with the Planning Commission regarding housing
policies.
There being no further business, Chair Cooper adjourned the meeting at 2:25 p.m.
_________________________________
Chuck Cooper, Chair
Karin Swanlund, Recording Secretary