HomeMy WebLinkAboutPACKET Community Development Community Services 2014-09-25
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Community Development & 8:00 a.m.
Community Services Committee Board Room
1. PUBLIC COMMENT
2. COMMUNITY SERVICES
a) RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE TOWN BOARD
i. None.
b) REPORTS
i. Senior Services Quarterly Report. Manager Mitchell
ii. September & October Event Report. Coordinator Jacobson
iii. Shuttle Update. Coordinator Wells
iv. Verbal Updates and Committee Questions.
3. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
a) RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE TOWN BOARD
i. Falcon Ridge Fee Waiver. Director Chilcott
b) REPORTS
i. Flood Recovery Update. Director Chilcott
ii. Verbal Updates and Committee Questions.
4. ADJOURN
AGENDA
Town of Estes Park, Larimer County, Colorado, August 28, 2014
Minutes of a Regular meeting of the COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT /
COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE of the Town of Estes Park, Larimer
County, Colorado. Meeting held in Town Hall in said Town of Estes Park on the
28th day of August, 2014.
Committee: Chair Ericson, Trustees Holcomb and Phipps
Absent: None
Also Attending: Directors Winslow and McFarland, Coordinators Jacobson,
and Wells, Planner Shirk, and Recording Secretary
Limmiatis
Trustee Ericson called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m.
PUBLIC COMMENT.
None.
COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT.
SIDEWALK SALE.
Director Winslow requested the approval of the bi-annual Surprise Sidewalk Sale. The
event allows downtown merchants to place wares and signage on the sidewalk as long
as a four foot clearance is maintained. Any business not located within the downtown
district may reserve a space in Bond Park to participate in the event. The Committee
recommended the approval of the Sidewalk Sale to be included as an Action Item
at the September 9, 2014 Town Board meeting.
REPORTS.
Reports provided for informational purposes and made a part of the proceedings.
August & September Event Report – Coordinator Jacobson informed the Committee
of lessons learned from the Arapahoe Celebration and the Heritage Festival, issues
that would be taken to the Events Committee, and the upcoming events scheduled
for September.
Shuttle Update - Coordinator Wells described the continued increase in shuttle
ridership, positive feedback received, and the development of grant applications for
2015/2016. Wells would contact downtown businesses to assess the needs for
workforce access to the area and develop a plan for increased utilization of the
Fairgrounds Park-In-Ride.
Verbal Updates and Committee Questions – Director Winslow stated staff continues
to work on the naming of the Event Center and Pavilion. The Estes Valley
Community Recreation Center continues to move forward with several different
marketing committees to raise funds.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT.
REPORTS.
Reports provided for informational purposes and made a part of the proceedings.
Verbal Flood Recovery Update – Planner Shirk updated the Committee on the
progress of the Estes Valley Community Recreation Center, the Estes Park
Wellness Center at the Stanley Hotel, the Downtown Flood Hazard Mitigation grant,
and the Fish Creek and Fall River Advisory Committees.
Verbal Updates and Committee Questions – The Committee requested the
Community Development Department expand on revenue estimates at the
upcoming Budget Study Sessions.
Community Development / Community Services – August 28, 2014 – Page 2
There being no further business, Trustee Ericson adjourned the meeting at 9:17 a.m.
Barbara Jo Limmiatis, Recording Secretary
Community Services Memo
To: Community Development / Community Services Committee
From: Lori Mitchell, Senior Services Manager
Date: September 25, 2014
RE: Senior Services Quarterly Report
Quarterly report:
Families for Estes – F.A.S.T. collaboration
The inaugural social event for F.A.S.T. – Families and Seniors Together was held on
Grandparent’s Day, September 7 at the Senior Center. Approximately 108 people of all
ages attended; the youngest was 7 months and the oldest was 99 years old!
The F.A.S.T. mission is to support and promote inter-generational, meaningful and FUN
events that foster learning opportunities and an understanding across generations.
F.A.S.T. is a new collaboration formed in the spring of 2014 between Families for Estes,
Estes Park Senior Citizens Center, Inc. and the Town of Estes Park’s Senior Services
Division.
2
Town of Estes Park Senior Services and Larimer County Office on Aging (LCOA)
Senior Services staff is working with the Larimer County Office on Aging to identify and
promote services or programs that may be of help to Estes Park residents. Senior Services
receives LCOA grant funding for two projects. Following is a summary of areas we are
working on together:
LCOA Grantee focus group
Senior Services staff participated in the Larimer County Office on Aging’s grantee
focus group in September as the LCOA develops its four-year plan. In 2014, Senior
Services will receive $6,710 for two projects: 200 blizzard boxes and a new N’
Balance Class and related supplies. In 2015, the amount will be approximately
$8,330 for 200 blizzard boxes and three more N’ Balance classes. Because of the
grant funding, these services will be available to local citizens for free.
LCOA Caregiver support focus group
Senior Services staff and other Estes Park professionals will participate in a
caregiver support focus group on October 14 at the Senior Center. The focus group
hopes to understand the needs of caregivers in Estes Park. The LCOA will also
engage with the caregiver support group at the Good Samaritan. One of the primary
concerns from some in the current caregiver support group is a need to look options
for adult day care locally.
LCOA – Aging and Disability Resources for Colorado
Senior Services will host a free program on October 14 about the Medicare Savings
Program that may help people pay for Part B premiums and / or medications. This
program will be of greatest help to those who are struggling financially or on a fixed
income.
United Way 211-To-Go - office hours in Estes Park
Senior Services staff is working with Jenne Loffer, United Way 211 Call Center
Coordinator, to provide regular office hours in Estes Park at the Senior Center with the first
date in October 14 from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Call Center staff would be on-hand at the
Senior Center to help primarily older adults with the Special Needs Registry, Reverse 911
for cell phones and referrals to community resources.
New sponsorships for 2015
Senior Services staff is developing new sponsorship opportunities for the 2015 budget
year. We’ll be looking at outside funding sources for community coffee hours, special
luncheons, coffee supplies and adult education programs among other ideas. For 2015,
the Estes Park Medical Center will provide $3,560 in sponsorship dollars.
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How do 2014 attendance numbers look?
January through August – all visits to the Senior Center and Senior Services programs:
Overall number of visits was 22,473 as compared to 21,141 in the same period in 2013.
January through August – attendance at drop-in and planned programs:
Year-to-date, planned programs are operating at 95% capacity. Overall, there have been
11,965 program visits in the first eight months as compared to 10,763 in the same period in
2013, an 11% increase.
January through August meal programs:
Meals on Wheels: year-to-date, we’ve provided 3,425 Meals on Wheels as compared to
3,745 for the same period in 2013.
Dining room: year-to-date, we’ve provided 4,301 dining room meals as compared to 4,345
for the same period in 2013.
What’s new in planned programs?
In the March report, staff provided a list of planned programs for January through May.
In June, staff provided a list of planned programs for June through August.
This report features planned programs for September through December .
N’ Balance – the first of three grant funded classes starts in September; these eight -
week classes are offered free to citizens as part of a LCOA grant;
Grandparent’s Day Ice Cream Social – a free event sponsored by Families for
Estes, Estes Park Senior Citizens Center, Inc. and Senior Services;
Interesting title, real conversation – How to stay out of a nursing home – a one-
time program presented by the Northern Colorado Culture Change Coalition and the
Larimer County Office on Aging;
Understanding Aging Skin – a one-time program presented by Dr. Lise Morrison
and the Estes Park Medical Center;
Medicare Counseling – monthly - University of Colorado Health Aspen Club;
Prescription Drug Plan Counseling – during open enrollment this fall – University
of Colorado Health Aspen Club;
Medicare Overview 101 – an annual program providing highlights to Medicare
changes and benefits – University of Colorado Health Aspen Club;
Learn More About the Medicare Savings Program – a one-time program
presented by the Aging and Disability Resources for Colorado program of the
Larimer County Office on Aging;
Annual Flu Shot Clinic – an annual one-day clinic sponsored by the Estes Park
Medical Center;
Community Flood Recovery and Mountain Outreach – a once a month group by
the Mountain Outreach Team for those in need of a helping hand;
China Travelogue – a repeat of the popular program by Betty Hull, featuring recent
travels;
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Getting the most out of your iPad or Getting the most out of your iPhone –
regular classes in partnership with Estes Park Internet Computer Users Group;
additionally, there are two monthly tutor sessions for help with iPad and iPhone;
The Great Courses: Museum Masterpieces – The Metropolitan Museum of Art
– free DVD lectures held at the Senior Center;
AARP Safe Driving Class – several times annually – two sessions this fall.
Breakfast Buffet Fundraiser – the last of EPSCC, Inc.’s three breakfasts was held
in September;
Annual Holiday Decorating Party – an annual event to decorate the Senior Center
for the holidays;
Annual White Elephant Gift Exchange – this is a long-standing tradition and
involved a whole lot of laughter and fun.
Special luncheons – September through December
Luncheons are popular social events with special menus. It’s a great way to meet people
and get to know the Senior Center. Most events require advance ticketing or reservations,
please join anytime! Local service clubs, Town staff and middle school students act as
servers for events.
Scottish-Irish luncheon - September 4
Oktoberfest luncheon - complete with accordion music! - October 7
Halloween Costume Party and luncheon – this is great fun! - October 31
Veteran’s Day luncheon - a special salute with free meals for Vets, songs by Lifelong
Learning of the Estes Valley - November 11
Thanksgiving Feast and Pie/Baked Good Auction - November 25
Winter chili luncheon - December 6
Holiday Feast - December 16
Day trips – September through December
Rockies baseball, two trips to the Georgetown Loop Railroad and High Tea at the Brown
Palace are among the fall trips offered.
Making connections through drop-in opportunities
One of the most important functions of a Senior Center is to provide a place for older adults
to gather and make connections with others. For example, there have been approximately
1,800 visits year-to-date for those just coming in for (free!) coffee and visiting.
Other drop in opportunities include Religion & Philosophy study group, Supreme Court
discussion, Rocky Rollers Wii bowling, crafters group, mah-jongg, art studio, bridge
lessons, pool, games, puzzles, blood pressure clinics, coffee and Wi-Fi, six fitness classes
weekly including Tri Fit, Chair Yoga, Tai Chi and ZUMBA, and more.
5
Rental properties
Senior Services staff manages the Town’s three rental properties; the Senior Center, the
Museum meeting room and the Hydroplant Picnic Grounds.
- In 2013, there were seven rentals at the Senior Center; year-to-date 2014, there are
22 rentals;
- In 2013, there were 20 rentals at the Picnic Grounds; year-to-date 2014, there are
29 rentals;
- In 2013, the Museum meeting room had four rentals; year-to-date, there are 15
rentals.
In 2015, responsibility for the Town’s rental program will shift within the Community
Services Department. Senior Services staff will retain the management of Senior Center
rentals and room scheduling; Museum staff will manage Museum rentals and room
scheduling and Events staff will manage Picnic Grounds rentals and scheduling.
Health Department inspections
The Larimer County Department of Health and Environment conducts unannounced semi-
annual inspections of the Town’s commercial kitchen while rating the performance of the
Town’s independent food service contractor - Catering for All Occasions. The inspection on
September 15, 2014 resulted in a rating of Excellent as compared to a Good rating in
January 2014. Inspections look at overall organization and cleanliness of the kitchen, food
safety and handling, food storage and knowledge of the contractor among other things.
Budget:
N/A
Recommendation:
N/A
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
800
900
1000
J F M A M J J A S O N D
2010 2014 2011 2012 2013
-1% YTD compared to last year, same 8 month period
Senior Services 8.31.14 page 1
Meals on Wheels, dining room and take-out meals
Meals on Wheels Current month = August = 478
2010 Total = 4,493
2011 Total = 5,158
2012 Total = 5,551
2013 Total = 5,166
2014 YTD = 3,425
Dining room meals
Previous month, July = 663 = 63% capacity
Current month, August = 627 = 62% capacity
Includes take-out meals (22), member (555) & non-member meals (50)
2010 Total = 7,936
2011 Total = 7,674
2012 Total = 7,164
2013 Total = 6,412
2014 YTD = 4,301
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
J F M A M J J A S O N D
2010 2014 2011 2012 2013
Month to
month
comparison
August
2010
407
2011
444
2012
506
2013
538
2014
478
Month to
month
comparison
August
2010
859
2011
850
2012
715
2013
651
2014
627
-8% YTD compared to last year, same 8 month period
Annual meal totals
Meals on Wheels and Fourth Street Café (dining room) -combined
Senior Services 8.31.14 page 2
Meals on Wheels, dining room and take-out meals
Month to
month
comparison
August
2010
1,266
2011
1,294
2012
1,221
2013
1,189
2014
1,105
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
11,356 13,937 14,730 13,926 16,644 13,001 12,555 12,429 12,832 12,715 11,578
7,726
-4%
YTD
to last
year
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
J F M A M J J A S O N D
2010 2014 2011 2012 2013
Combined meal totals –monthly comparison
-4% YTD compared to last year, same 8 month period
0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Attendance at activities and programs
Current month = August = 1,932
(number of visits, drop-in and planned programs combined)
2010 Total =16,722
2011 Total = 17,653
2012 Total = 15,927
2013 Total = 14,553
2014 YTD = 11,965
+11% YTD compared to last year, same 8 month period
Senior Services / program attendance 8.31.14 page 3
Current month –August
“Planned programs” potential or ideal capacity 623
“Planned programs/% utilization” *699 or 112% capacity
*programs as a % of ideal capacity/actual
“Drop-in” programs utilization 1,233
Average programs capacity 2013 = 89%
Average programs capacity 2012 = 99%
Previous month -July
“Planned programs” potential or ideal capacity 388
“Planned programs/% utilization” *359 or 108% capacity
*programs as a % of ideal capacity/actual
“Drop-in” programs utilization 1,322
Month to
month
comparison
August
2010
2,103
2011
2,264
2012
1,971
2013
1,672
2014
1,932
Average programs capacity 2014 YTD = 95%
Average programs capacity 2011 = 108%
Average programs capacity 2010 = 104%
January
TOEP meetings (10)
County Commissioners (13 )
Sister Cities (6)
Eagle Rock Wisdom of
Elders class (26)
February
Mayor (25)
County Commissioner (17)
Eagle Rock Wisdom of
Elders class (36)
Rec District mtg. (27)
March
Mayor (36)
TOEP meetings (27)
County Commissioner (11)
April
Mayor (49)
TOEP meetings (28)
Creative Arts (4)
SCINC/EPIC (6)
County Commissioner (6)
ICMA (2)
May
Mayor (35)
County Commissioners (7)
June
Mayor (36)
County Commissioner (16)
Mountain Outreach (3)
Ham radio (50)
Museum mtgs. (10)
Disabled Resources (3)
July
Mayor (26)
TOEP meetings(56)
County Commissioner (10)
Mountain Outreach (2)
August
Mayor (45)
TOEP meetings (39)
County Commissioner (12)
Rec District (50)
September
Mayor
TOEP meetings
County Commissioner
October
Mayor
TOEP meetings
County Commissioner
November
Mayor
TOEP meetings
County Commissioner
December
Mayor
TOEP meetings
County Commissioner
2014 Senior Center
non-rentals
YTD = 39 events / 723 users
2008 non-rental users = 270
2009 non-rental users = 888
2010 non-rental users = 1,040
2011 non-rental users = 939
2012 non-rental users = 864
2013 non-rental users = 1,009
0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
4500
2014
2010
2011
2012
2013
+6% compared to last year, same 8 month period
Year total =
31,590
August = 3,543
Year total =
34,228
August –4,098
Year total =
29,776
August = 3,512
Senior Services / overall attendance 8.31.14 page 4
2014 Senior Center rental users
January Kaiser Perm. (3)
February Kaiser Perm. (8)
Wedding party (65)
Church group (31)
March Kaiser Perm. (3)
Church group (65)
April Church group (66)
CO. Educ. Initiative (15)
May Church group (57)
Parade of Years (15)
June Church group (69)
Quilters (100)
July Church group (65)
Reunion (57)
HOA (11)
August Church group (70)
2014 Senior Center rentals
YTD = 22 events / 710 users
2008 rental users = 599
2009 rental users = 191
2010 rental users = 374
2011 rental users = 308
2012 rental users = 254
2013 rental users = 290
2014 Hydroplant picnic grounds
rental /non-rental users
2014 YTD = 26 events / 1,759 users
2008 = 23 events / 1,642 users
2009 = 21 events / 1,451 users
2010 = 17 events / 1,036 users
2011 = 20 events / 1,514 users
2012 = 26 events / 1,661 users
2013 = 25 events / 1,357 users
Year total = 29,668
August = 3,102
YTD = 22,473
+6% YTD over
last year
August = 3,737
2014 Senior Center non-rental users
Overall attendance reflects all visits to the Senior Center, and to Senior Services
programs and services
Community Services Memo
To: Community Development/ Community Services Committee
Town Administrator Lancaster
From: Lexy Jacobson, Event Coordinator
Date: September 25, 2014
RE: Fairgrounds and Events Division- September and October Event Update
Report: The Fairgrounds and Events Division would like to thank the Town Board for
their approval of the Events Coordinator I position. We look forward to the new addition
to our team and the opportunity to expand and host more events in Estes Park.
Where we’ve been….
August
Fairgrounds August 30th-31st Colorado Senior Pro Charity Rodeo
Fairgrounds August 30th Chuck Wagon Cook Off
Events Center August 30th John Denver Tribute Concert
Performance Park August 30th Tom Oates Premiere
Events Center August 31st Nashville in the Rockies
Bond Park
August 30th-Sept
1st
Labor Day Arts and Craft Show
Fairgrounds August 31st Alpaca Market
September
Fairgrounds September 4th-7th Longs Peak Scottish Festival
Stanley Park September 6th Scottish Festival Parade
Performance Park September 7th Summit Church Service
Events Center September 13th Universal Consciousness Festival
Bond Park September 13-14th Fine Arts Guild Art Show
Event Center September 12 Mountain Rivers Jubilee
Bond Park Sept. 20th-21st Autumn Gold
Fairgrounds Sept. 20th Rocky Mountain Mud Volleyball Tournament
Performance Park Sept 20th The Performance Park Summer Series
Labor Day weekend hosted a full lineup of events; both new and existing and
throughout the village. The concerts were a HUGE success in the Event Center, with
over 1,200 people throughout the weekend. The 2 nd Annual Chuck Wagon Cook Off
was up against the elements, however their event still catered to the Senior Pro Charity
Rodeo, visiting guests and community members. They were able to host 220 authentic
meals!
The Longs Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival continued its success with large
crowds and new additions; the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. The Event Center was
fortunate to host the festival concerts on both Friday and Saturday evening; their
numbers reached up to 1,500 between the two!
September 12th welcomed the Mountain Rivers Jubilee; a fundraiser for the Glen Haven
community flood efforts. Through silent auction items, merchandise sales, sponsorship
and donations, the event was able to raise over $45,000. Job well done!
The 2nd Annual Rocky Mountain Mud Volleyball tournament kicked off on September
20th; an event to also raise funds for post flood recovery. The tournament saw 11 teams,
with the furthest team traveling from Littleton, CO. This is a type of event that our staff
would love to see more of; athletic, multigenerational, and FUN! (Verbal updates on $$
raised).
Where we are….
October
Bond Park Oct. 4th-5th Elk Fest
Downtown Oct. 11th-12th Surprise Sale
Bond Park Oct. 11th Pumpkins and Pilsners
Event Center Oct. 18th Lynch Wedding
Downtown Oct. 31st Downtown Trick Or Treat
“Elktober” means one thing here in Estes Park; the annual Estes Park Elk Fest is near!
Staff is excited to introduce the new additions of the event. Guests will be able to
experience a Calf Corral, Wallowing Hole, live entertainment, more food vendors and
the return of the Mountain Man Camps. We are happy to report that we have partnered
with the EVPRD and the Rotary Clubs of Estes Park to make this event happen!
Pumpkins and Pilsners is a new event, in Bond Park, hosted by Families for Estes. This
is a family friendly, Oktoberfest atmosphere complete with live entertainment, variou s
kids activities, pumpkins sales and carving, and a food and beer garden! Our staff is
working closely with their committee to set their 1 st year event up for success by offering
logistical support. All proceeds from the event will go back to Families for Estes.
Congratulations to our Sales and Marketing Manager, Karen Lynch, on her upcoming
wedding. This will be the first of hopefully many weddings that we will host in the Event
Center. We are eager to see this facility be transformed to atmosphere we have yet to
create. Events like this continue to justify our commonly used phrase of “multipurpose”!
Where we’re going….
November
Event Center November 1st Fall Back Beer Fest
Downtown November 22nd Lighting Ceremony
Downtown November 28th Catch the Glow Parade
The 2nd Annual Fall Back Beer Fest joins us on November 1st, in the Event Center; the
day that the clocks change! Enthusiasts can enjoy 15 unique vendors, 2 soda
breweries, and 35 breweries. The event will also feature a Dinner with the Brewers the
evening before, in our VIP room. Tickets and event details are available at
fallbackbeerfest.com.
Join us November 22nd, as we light up the season in Estes Park. The 3rd Annual
Lighting Ceremony has become an Estes Park tradition shared with community
members and guests. This year we have partnered with the RMNP Centennial and will
be recognizing those within the organization and featuring a surprise lighting feature
that will highlight the 100th Anniversary!
The Catch the Glow parade is right around the corner! And if you can hardly believe it
our parade coordinator, Michael Young, has already set up shop and is hard at work.
This event has also teamed up with RMNP and will be emphasizing the Wilderness,
Wildlife and W onder theme throughout the parade and producing commemorative floats
for the 100th Anniversary. More details to come.
1
To: Community Development/Community Services Committee
Town Administrator Lancaster
From: Brian Wells, Shuttle Coordinator
Date: September 25, 2014
RE: 2014 Peak Season Review for the Estes Park FREE Shuttles
Update:
Peak season shuttle service ended Sunday, September 7 coinciding with the end of
Scot Fest. The Elkhorn Express is running its fall weekend of service.
2014 Shuttle Season Ridership Numbers:
Total: 432,192
Community Services Memo
2
3
Remaining 2014 Service Schedule:
The Elkhorn Express special service days include:
Sat-Sun September 27-28
October 4-5 Elk Fest
Saturday November 1 Fall Back Beer Festival
Friday November 28 Catch-the-Glow Parade
Saturday December 13 Tinsel & Taverns
Trolley Maintenance:
In 2014 the Elkhorn Express received new front brakes, A/C repairs, and a new fuel
pump. Prior to the 2015 season it will have rear brakes replaced and maintenance on
the wheel chair lift hydraulics.
The Shuttle Committee is reviewing routes and stops based on passenger and driver
feedback.
Shuttle Committee:
Looking at activities related to promoting the 10th Year of the Estes Park Free Shuttles
in 2015. We anticipate carrying the 500,000th passenger since service began in 2006.
Planning and scheduling Rider Appreciation Days.
Reviewing routes and stops based on passenger and driver feedback.
Considering requests for new stops at two lodging facilities.
4
Additional Tasks in Progress:
Evaluation of real time passenger information and collecting bids for future service. Our
current contract expires in October 2014.
Evaluate need for workforce access to downtown area earlier in the morning and later in
the evening. Also look at feasibility/opportunity for downtown employees parking at the
Fairgrounds Park-in-Ride.
Completion of a Federal Transit Authority (FTA) “practice” grant application through
CDOT in preparation for a possible 2016 application.
Background:
N/A
Shuttle Committee Recommendation:
N/A
Recommended Motion:
N/A
Page 1
To: Community Development/Community Services Committee
Town Administrator Lancaster
From: Alison Chilcott, Director
Phil Kleisler, Planner II
Date: September 25, 2014
RE: Falcon Ridge Fee Waiver
Objective:
Determine if the application complies with adopted fee waiver policy, and approve or
deny the associated request.
Present Situation:
The Estes Park Housing Authority has submitted a development application package
that currently includes the following:
1. Falcon Ridge Development Plan: The applicant has held a series of community
meetings with nearby property owners and revised the Plan to address neighbor
concerns. The Estes Valley Planning Commission will review this Plan at their
October 21, 2014 meeting. The project proposes 48 multi-family attainable
housing units along Red Tail Hawk Drive.
2. Amended Plat: The applicant has submitted an amended plat application to
vacate existing easements and dedicate new utility easements associated with
the proposed development. The Planning Commission will review and provide a
recommendation on October 21, 2014. The Town Board will then review this
application on November 25, 2014.
The Town Board adopted the Fee Waiver policy in 2012 to support vital community
needs such as affordable housing, assisted living and health care services. The Policy
allows the Town Board to waive in-house fees assessed by the Community
Development Department, including building permit, development review and sign code
fees.
Community Development
Memo
Page 2
On July 22, 2014 the Town Board granted a fee waiver request for an amount estimated
at $56,422 to the Housing Authority for development review and building permit fees
associated with the Falcon Ridge project.
Proposal:
The Estes Park Housing Authority is requesting an additional fee waiver of $560 in
development application fees for their amended plat application. Staff have added $200
for the administrative cost of processing this request (per the Community Development
Department schedule of fees), bringing the total to $760.
The attached letter from the Estes Park Housing Authority further describes the request.
The fee waiver policy adopted by Town Board is also attached.
Advantages:
Advantage for the Housing Authority: Reduces cost.
Advantage for the Town: Intergovernmental cooperation.
Disadvantages:
Transfers cost from the Housing Authority to the Town.
Reduces department revenue. Fees cover a portion of the Town’s expense to
process these multiple development applications.
Action Recommended:
Approve or deny the fee waiver request. The Community Development/Community
Services Committee may approve this request or forward to the Town Board.
Budget:
General Fund Revenue: Charges for Services — Application Fees - Inside
Account #: 101-1600-341.30-00 ($760)
$760 in reduced revenue. Fees cover a portion of the Town’s expense to process the
applications.
Level of Public Interest:
Low for the fee waiver request. High for the project in general.
Recommended Motion:
I move to approve/deny the Estes Park Housing Authority fee waiver request; or
I move to recommend approval/denial of the Estes Park Housing Authority fee waiver
request to the Town Board.
Attachments:
1. Written request from the Estes Park Housing Authority.
2. Community Development Fee Waiver Policy.
Page 1 of 9
To: Community Development/Community Services Committee
Town Administrator Lancaster
From: Will Birchfield, Chief Building Official and Floodplain Manager
Alison Chilcott, Community Development Director
Date: September 25, 2014
RE: Flood Recovery Update
Objective:
Report to Community Development/Community Services Committee on flood recovery efforts.
Provide information to aid in decision-making about floodplain management, stream/river
corridor protection, short-term stabilization, and long-term restoration of rivers and streams.
Decisions will continue to have ecological and economic impacts and will require community
input.
Present Situation:
I. Community Development Role - Floodplain Management and Stream/River
Corridor Protection
A. Floodplain management is a core service provided by the Town. The Town has
adopted local regulations that are intended to:
1. Provide adequate zoning regulations to minimize death, injury, and losses to
public and private property due to flooding.
2. Identify and clarify where flood hazards may exist and to ensure that potential
buyers or builders are aware that certain properties are in areas with special
flood hazard. (Summarized from Estes Park Municipal Code Chapter 17.28
Floodplain Regulations, 17l.28.010 Purpose)
Regulations are administered by local floodplain manager, Will Birchfield.
Community Development
Memo
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The Town participates in the FEMA National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
which provides eligibility for flood insurance, flood disaster assistance, state and
federal grants, loans and buyout funds for flood-prone property. Compliance with
floodplain regulations is necessary in order to continue to qualify for the program
and related benefits. The Town’s regulations meet and in some cases exceed
minimum standards established by the NFIP.
B. Stream/River Corridor Protection
Regulations are in place within the Estes Valley to promote, preserve and
enhance the important hydrologic, biological, ecological, aesthetic, recreational
and educational functions that stream and river corridors, associated riparian
areas and wetlands provide (from Estes Valley Development Code Section 7.6
Wetlands and Stream Corridor Protection, A. Purpose and Intent).
Regulations are administered by the Town of Estes Park Planning Division for
the entire Estes Valley. Stream and river corridors and associated riparian areas
are wider than flood hazard areas.
II. Fall River and Fish Creek Master Plan – Purpose and Status
The Town of Estes Park is preparing Master Plans for Fall River and Fish Creek
Corridors, with Colorado Water Conservation Board support. The Master Plans are
collaborative in nature, drawing on the expertise of engineers, fluvial geomorphologists,
ecologists, fisheries biologists, and risk experts, and informed by input from impacted
home and business owners and the community at large.
This involves a fundamental shift in how we view and plan for our rivers. Many think of
the rivers as a problem to be fixed. Instead, this Master Plan is based on river
processes. The objective is to work with the river rather than forcing it into a mold of
what we think it ought to be. The Master Plan builds flood recovery work on a
foundation of strong science and engineering, vetted through the community. This is an
innovative risk-based approach to resiliency. The master plans (to be completed Winter,
2014) consider risks associated with geomorphic hazards in addition to flood hazards
and identifies potential mitigation projects for the corridors, including the corridor
running through downtown.
The ultimate result of master planning efforts and subsequent project implementation is
increased resiliency in our community, economy, and river systems.
The Master Plan has/will:
Start the coalition on a successful path to maximize future funding opportunities for
needed recovery and restoration projects.
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Create a long term implementable vision for the Fall River and Fish Creek corridors
for recovery and restoration.
Create prioritized lists of scientifically defensible recovery and restoration projects
that have been shaped by and have the support of the community.
Create a strategy to reduce the impact of future flooding on the community of Estes
Park and its economy.
Develop strategies to restore the river’s ecological health and resiliency.
Recommend aquatic and terrestrial (riparian) wildlife habitat improvement and
restoration—including fish passage improvements.
Recommend river channel stabilization, relocation, and/or reconfiguration.
Identify wetland and riparian areas to protect and restore.
Recommend recreation network expansions and improvements, including trail
and/or maintenance access development.
Employ qualitative and quantitative risk assessment tools that distill extensively
complicated factors into information the town can use to make informed long‐term
and short‐term recovery and planning decisions.
Incorporate public input into development of the Master Plan including volunteer
engagement.
Guide future Fall River and Fish Creek Corridor recovery and restoration projects.
Outline project prioritization and cost estimation.
Coordinate current exigent project efforts into long‐term planning.
Status:
More detailed information about the master plans can be found at
www.fallrivercoalition.org and www.fishcreekcoaliltion.org. Master planning processes
for Fall River and Fish Creek began in February/March 2014. The final plan is due to be
complete this fall/winter.
III. Transition to Watershed Coalition (independent from Town government)
To best accommodate the many different parties with interests in Fall River and Fish Creek,
the Town of Estes Park helped assemble the Fall River and Fish Creek coalitions to help
coordinate interested parties and most effectively advocate for health and resiliency of the
stream corridors and the Town.
At the heart of the master planning process are the River Advisory Committees (RAC),
volunteer planning advisory committees for the Fall River and Fish Creek Corridors. The
River Advisory Committees are a means to foster ownership of the planning process in the
community, create a constant stream of public engagement, promote understanding of the
issues and process, and expedite the acceptance and implementation of a final plan.
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The RACs hold bi-weekly meetings which inform and guide the planning process. This is a
forum in which invested individuals and organizations have the opportunity to help define
values and vision, define issues, propose projects and management strategies, and
provide input on the final plans. Representatives from every reach of the river, and from all
sectors of the community, encourage all members and the planning team to consider Fall
River and Fish Creek as systems. This is the key for the plans’ success.
Fall River and Fish Creek Coalitions are informal coalitions consisting of property owners
and other stakeholders. Prior to spring runoff off, coalition meetings included information on
both emergency repairs for runoff mitigation as well as long-term planning for watershed
restoration. Coalitions create a forum for residents to get to know their neighbors and work
cooperatively to restore the rivers.
The Town served as a catalyst for the coalitions after the September 2013 floods. Now it is
time to transition to a formal watershed coalition independent from Town government.
The next coalition meeting (Greater Estes Valley Watershed Coalition) is scheduled for
October 9th from 6:00-8:00 pm at the Elkhorn Lodge. This is an open public meeting.
Residents and business owners along all drainages within the Estes Valley are encouraged
to attend and participate. This includes Big Thompson, Fall River, Black Canyon, and Fish
Creek drainages. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the transition to a formal
watershed coalition structure, e.g. a non-profit organization with a formal board, staff,
mission and vision, with the goal of a formal structure in place by December 2014. Grants
are available to fund watershed coalition staff position(s).
John Giordanengo, who is working with informal coalitions in the Big Thompson drainage to
form a non-profit for the entire Big Thompson Watershed non-profit, will attend and
participate in the meeting. Jeff Crane, consultant for the Colorado Water Conservation
Board, will also participate in the meeting and provide information about the need to
transition to a formal coalition.
IV. Flood Recovery Temporary Staffing
A. Environmental Planner/Planner III Position Starting
In September, the Town received a grant from the Colorado Division of Local
Affairs to fully-fund a two-year staff position, an Environmental Planner/Planner
III. The primary purpose of this staff position is to assist with flood recovery work
– (1) to ensure flood recovery sustainability through regional resiliency strategic
planning processes, and (2) help guide the Estes Park community to rebuild
better and stronger to increase its resiliency to future disasters.
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This staff person will assist with implementing the risk-based watershed master
plans, including identifying and applying for grant funding, coordinating with
stakeholders such as the watershed coalition(s), downtown businesses and
property owners. This Planner will also assist the Town Floodplain Manager with
new flood insurance studies for Estes Park and joining the FEMA Flood
Insurance Program Community Rating System, which can reduce flood
insurance rates.
B. Flood Outreach Coordinator Position Ending
Donna Hasman was hired as Flood Outreach Coordinator in the spring of 2013.
Her position, which was fully funded by Larimer County Work Force Center grant,
ends on September 30th. Donna has been instrumental in coordinating with the
Long-Term Recovery Group, applying for HMGP and CDBG-DR funds for the
Downtown Estes Park Flood Mitigation Project, spring-runoff outreach, and
master planning.
V. Master Plan Implementation
Funds are needed to implement the Master Plan. Below is a summary of funding status.
A. Grant Funds Awarded
Colorado Water Conservation Board: $200,000 for Fish Creek restoration project
(Country Club to Brook Drive reach). This is a collaborative project with property
owners, the Estes Valley Recreation and Park District, and the Estes Valley Land
Trust.
B. Grant Funds Requested (Pending) – Downtown Estes Park Flood Mitigation
Project
FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program/HUD Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG) – Disaster Recovery Funds: $13.5 million for Downtown Estes Park Flood
Mitigation Project.
General objectives of this project are:
Reduce future flood risk in downtown Estes Park.
Create a strong and safer downtown to reduce loss of life and property.
Enable individuals and the community, including downtown as a whole to
recover more rapidly from future flood events.
Lessen the financial impact of flooding, i.e. reduce the risk of repetitive losses
from flooding in downtown Estes Park.
Use natural materials and avoid hardening where possible.
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Specific objectives are:
Contain floodwaters (from a 1% annual event) within river channels and under
bridges to the maximum extent practical.
Where floodwaters cannot be contained within the channel, water will be
managed and safely returned to the rivers, avoiding damage to buildings.
Remove assets from hazard areas and reduce inundation depths by increasing
flood conveyance.
Maintain as much natural and aesthetic appeal of the rivers as possible.
Prevent as many buildings in the downtown corridor from being placed in revised
Special Flood Hazard Areas.
Due to the complexity of this project and the need for revised hydrology for Fall River
and Big Thompson, the Town has applied for grant funding for a phased project.
Phase I includes data collection, public meetings, and preliminary design. Phase II is
construction.
Community Development and Public Works staff worked together with river
engineers to preliminarily identify six locations that provide the potential to reduce
future flood risk and that align with FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
objectives. Future work at these sites could significantly reduce the risk of flooding
throughout the commercial downtown corridor of Estes Park, thereby protecting the
economic engine of the town and thus the well-being of its citizens.
The six potential project locations are:
1. East Riverside Drive (Confluence Bridge Improvements)
2. West Elkhorn Avenue (Waterwheel Bridge) Improvements on Fall River
3. Piccadilly Square Improvements on Big Thompson River
4. Big Thompson from Piccadilly Square to Ivy Street
5. Rockwell Bridge on Big Thompson
6. Fall River Upstream of Spruce Drive
C. Future Funding Opportunities
The next round of grant applications will be for HUD CDBG–DR which includes
$25 million for a Watershed Resilience Pilot Program. HUD describes this as:
A holistic program designed to provide watershed restoration, risk
mitigation and community and economic development using a
collaborative, coalition-of-partners approach. The program will
support capacity building, additional watershed master planning
and conceptual design activities, including modeling and mapping,
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planning for multi-objective uses such as - green infrastructure,
greenways, recreation, transportation and recreation and funding
for the implementation of projects agreed to in cooperative planning
efforts.
Staff is also monitoring other grant opportunities including, but not limited to:
1. Colorado Water Conservation Board grants;
2. National Resource Conservation Service request for additional funding from
Congress for the 2013 floods; and
3. HUD National Disaster Resiliency Competition – CDBG. HUDs goal is to get
resources to communities to help them develop innovative, data-driven,
community led approaches to recover from disasters and increase resilience to
future threats. The competition for funding ($1 billion) is open to states with
qualifying disasters and units of general local government who received CDBG in
2011-2013. There are a total of 67 potential applicants. The focus is regional
cooperation and resiliency.
4. Partnership with the US Bureau of Reclamation and State Engineers Office to
improve conveyance capacity/reduce backwatering by the flume located near the
Visitor Center.
VI. Spring Runoff Wrap-Up
Five emergency watershed protection projects were completed in Town. One project,
Fish Creek 1 (Stonebridge) was originally identified for funding by NRCS; however it did
not qualify due to limited risk of additional structure damage from spring runoff.
Total project cost for the five projects is roughly $1 million, of which 12.5% is a local
match. Property owners in the project areas are responsible for this match. Town staff
hopes to meet the match requirement with the in-kind contributions, e.g. the value of the
rock and rock hauling, used in the project.
This is temporary work and has not been approved by FEMA as a permanent repair.
VII. Interim Floodplain Regulations
The Town continues to regulate floodplains with interim regulations in this post-flood
environment.
The staff goal over the past year has been, and remains, revising Flood Insurance
Studies and maps after as many as possible of the mitigation measures identified in the
master plans are implemented.
Based on new hydrology reports prepared for the Fish Creek Public Infrastructure
Project, flows on Fish Creek for a 100-year event are anticipated to increase at least
two times. Preliminary hydrology studies for Fall River show a similar increase.
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Proposed mitigation will reduce the number of homes and businesses placed in revised
Special Flood Hazard Areas (FEMA Regulatory floodplain), but not eliminate all. Some
property owners likely to be placed in revised SFHA have been approached about
voluntary property acquisition. Most property owners declined.
Staff has begun overlaying hydrologic model output on aerial photography and
topographic maps to determine which areas are most heavily impacted. Maps have
been reviewed in River Advisory Committee meetings, a Partners for Commerce
meeting, discussed in general at Town Board meetings, and reviewed with individual
property owners. They will be posted on coalition websites.
Ordinance #13-13 allows for permanent construction in areas affected by the 2013
flood, while taking appropriate measures to reasonably protect lives and properties from
flooding and minimize potential non-compliance with FEMA regulations (namely,
updated floodplain maps). The Ordinance further ensures that staff have all necessary
information when reviewing building and floodplain permit applications. Ordinance 13-13
provides criteria for reviewing building permit applications for structures on properties
located adjacent to drainages. The Town is regulating to the high-water mark of the
event using best available data for revised 100-year hydrology.
This ordinance is due to expire on November 11, 2014 unless amended, extended
and/or terminated by further action of the Board. Interim regulations are still needed and
staff will be in front of Town Board with proposed regulations before the November 11th
expiration date. Staff will ask to continue to use the high water mark as the vertical
boundaries of the floodplain and to use the best available data for peak flow discharges.
By using those two criteria we will be able to set property owners up for success, rather
than failure, when applying for permits for work within the floodplain.
Proposal:
None.
Advantages:
N/A
Disadvantages:
N/A
Action Recommended:
Report only. No action needed at this time.
Budget:
N/A
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Level of Public Interest:
Very High
Sample Motion:
N/A
Attachments:
None