HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-07-08 VLHA Meeting Minutes
Vail Local Housing Authority Minutes
Tuesday, July 8, 2025
3:00 PM
Vail Town Council Chambers and virtually by Zoom.
Zoom meeting link: https://vail.zoom.us/j/82534922212
Present: Steve Lindstrom
Steve Lindstrom
Dan Godec
Kristin Kenney Williams
Absent: Christine Santucci
Craig Denton
1. Call to Order (3:00pm)
Call to order at 3:03 p.m. with a quorum.
2. Citizen Participation (5 min.) No comments.
3. Approval of Minutes (5 min.)
3.1 Approval of June 24, 2025 Meeting Minutes
Presenter(s): Missy Johnson
Time: 5 min.
2025-06-24 VLHA Meeting Minutes.pdf
Kristin Kenney Williams made a motion to Approve ; Dan Godec seconded the motion Passed (3 - 0).
4. Main Agenda
4.1 Update on West Middle Creek
Presenter(s): Anna Bengtson, Housing Development Specialist
Time: 10 min.
Bengtson provided a quick update regarding the newly named Southface and onsite
work, previously West Middle Creek.
Timber Ridge modular installation of Building A has begun, going well and had a
successful media event. The team that has viewed the interiors say it is looking amazing.
Godec is interested in continuous tracked updates regarding Timber Ridge Village sales
including dollar volume under contract and the amount currently coming back into the
town. Williams suggested the desire to hear updates regarding opt-in for the EHU credit
sales.
Dietz confirmed there are no discounts for bulk sales of Timber Ridge Village units.
4.2 STR Excise Tax Polling Results
Presenter(s): Carlie Smith, Town of Vail Finance Director and Ryan Winger, Magellan
Strategies
Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey
Presentation 070125.pdf 250701 STR Tax
Survey Results.pdf
Town of Vail Ballot Measure Survey Topline
Results 061125.pdf Town of Vail Lodging
Community Survey Summary Slides.pdf
Smith introduced the background of the work conducted by Magellen Strategies and
Winger of Magellan Strategies presented an overview of findings from the STR Excise
Tax polling results as included in the agenda packet.
In reference to the presentation by Magellen, discussion ensued around a variety of key
topics relevant in the findings. In relation to the complexity of the debt issuance
language, concerns were raised about the confusing language in the ballot regarding the
town's debt increase and the impact of this complexity on voter perception.
There was agreement on including debt-related questions in surveys to gauge voter
understanding and acceptance and it was acknowledged that complex ballot language
might not significantly alter voter support, estimated at remaining strong around 64-69%
uninformed support.
The need for a robust campaign to clarify complex issues to voters was emphasized,
counteracting any assumptions that high initial support guarantees success.
Discussion highlighted the perceived fairness in taxing STRs more than general
lodging or sales taxes due to their contribution to local issues. Legal and logistic
considerations were discussed in that the VLHA cannot campaign using official
resources, but individuals may advocate personally.
Regarding tax collection mechanics, Smith mentioned plans were in motion to
streamline tax collection from platforms like Airbnb and VRBO directly to the town,
simplifying processes for short-term rental managers.
The survey revealed a favorable view of the town’s fiscal responsibility and support
for an excise tax, bolstering confidence in the current strategy.
Partnerships and community engagement was discussed and emphasized the
importance of maintaining positive relationships with the lodging community and utilizing
existing partnerships to address housing issues collaboratively.
The VLHA recognized the anticipation of some organized opposition which highlights
the necessity for continued stakeholder engagement and transparent communication
within the community, affirming the importance of conducting further discussions on
campaign messaging and legal strategies to ensure compliance and effectiveness.
Leverage insights from other towns that have successfully navigated similar tax
implementations. The meeting concluded with participants affirming their support and
readiness to advance the campaign, emphasizing the importance of transparency and
strategic communication around the initiatives.
5.Matters from the Chairman and Authority Members
Conversation around VLHA website approvals and new email addresses was discussed with
the next steps for the designer to connect directly with VLHA members.
Lindstrom provided his takeaways regarding the recent meeting that was presented by Habitat
for Humanity as community members came together to hear from recent Habitat for Humanity
participant and discussed challenges facing the community regarding housing solutions.
6.Adjournment
Meeting adjourned at 4:36 p.m.
7.Next Meeting Date - July 22, 2025