HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-01-06 Agenda and Support Documentation Town Council Work Session VAIL TOWN COUNCIL
WORK SESSION AGENDA
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL CHAMBERS
75 S. Frontage Road W.
Vail, CO 81657
12:30 P.M., TUESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2009
NOTE: Times of items are approximate, subject to change, and
cannot be relied upon to determine at what time Council
will consider an item.
No public comment will be taken.
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1. Warren Campbell ITEM/TOPIC: PEC /DRB Update. (15 min.)
2. Stan Zemler ITEMITOPIC: Hanson Ranch Road proposed skier drop -off
transition update. (15 min.)
3. Rachel Friede ITEM/TOPIC: Work Session to Discuss 2009 Code Revision
Project. (15 min.)
ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Staff requests the Vail
Town Council listens to the Staff presentation, asks any pertinent
questions, and provides input on the scope of work, the project
process and next steps.
BACKGROUND RATIONALE: The Vail Town Code was
established in 1966 and has been repealed, reenacted and
amended many times since then. Specifically, amendments to
Titles 10 (Building Regulations), 11 (Sign Regulations), 12 (Zoning
Regulations), 13 (Subdivision Regulations) and 14 (Development
Standards), all of which address development, have been reactive
to current issues, and have lacked coordination and strategic
focus. After many years of amendments, the Town needs to
conduct a comprehensive review and revision of the Titles
mentioned above to provide a clear, concise development code
that is supported by the community at large. The 2009 Code
Revision Project will provide a proactive, coordinated effort and
strategic focus that is necessary to address a multitude of issues,
further discussed in the Staff memorandum.
4. Bill Gibson ITEMITOPIC: A work session to discuss the unintended effects of
construction work lighting, and how the Town may choose to
proceed with mitigation of the impacts. (30 min.)
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ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Provide Staff with policy
direction concerning the mitigation of construction work lighting's
unintended affects.
BACKGROUND RATIONALE: On October 21, 2008, during the
review of Ordinance No. 21, Series of 2008, an ordinance
amending the Towns outdoor lighting regulations, the Council
instructed Staff to propose options for addressing the unintended
affects construction work lighting. Staff has prepared options for
the Council to consider.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Provide Staff with policy direction
concerning the mitigation • of construction work lighting's
unintended affects.
5. Judy Camp ITEM/TOPIC: Discussion of Ordinance No. 1, Series of 2009, an
emergency ordinance making special amendments to Town of
Vail Debt Services Fund's 2008 budget. (5 min.)
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ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Approve a special
amendment to the Debt Services Fund budget for 2008, reflecting
the issuance of Sales Tax Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series
2008.
BACKGROUND RATIONALE: On. December 16, 2008 Town
Council approved Ordinance No. 32 amending a definition
contained in Ordinance No. 20, which authorized the refinancing
of the town's outstanding 1998 Sales Tax Revenue Refunding
Bonds. Since the closing on the new bonds took place on
December 30, 2008, it is necessary make a special amendment to
the 2008 budget of the Debt Services Fund so the transaction may
be recorded in the appropriate fiscal year. An emergency
ordinance is requested so that costs of the bond issuance may be
paid on a timely basis.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the Town
Council approves Ordinance No., Series of 2008, this evening.
6. Kristen Bertuglia ITEMITOPIC: Discussion of Resolution No. 1, Series of 2009 - a
Resolution adopting the Vail Environmental Sustainability
Strategic Plan. (15 min.)
ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Approve, approve with
changes, or deny Resolution 1, Series of 2009 — adopting the Vail
Environmental Sustainability Strategic Plan.
BACKGROUND RATIONALE: The Vail Town Council will review
the draft Vail Environmental Sustainability Strategic Plan, and the
associated goals, objectives, action steps and priorities identified
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to ensure that the Town of Vail is a leader in environmental
sustainability through community and regional partnerships.
ACTION REQUESTED BY TOWN COUNCIL: It is the intention of
the Town of Vail Environmental Team to work with the Town
Council to begin work immediately on projects identified as
priorities and adopted through the Vail Environmental
Sustainability Plan. The Plan will lead the actions of staff and the
Community Development Department.
7. Nina Timm ITEM/TOPIC: Discussion of Resolution No. 2, Series of 2009, A
George Ruther resolution adopting a new Chamonix Master Plan, to facilitate the
development of employee housing and a new fire station and
amending the Vail Land Use Plan, to designate the Chamonix
Master Plan Area; and setting forth details in regards thereto. (20
min.)
BACKGROUND: The Town of Vail purchased the "Chamonix
Parcel" and the "Wendy's Parcel" for the purpose of constructing
employee housing and a new fire station. Through an extensive
public process a preferred master plan option was developed and
endorsed by the Vail Town Council on August 5, 2008, and the
Planning and Environmental Commission on December 22, 2008.
Adoption of the Chamonix Master Plan by the Vail Town Council is
the next step in the development of the proposed employee
housing and fire station.
ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Approve, approve with
modifications, or deny Resolution 2, Series of 2009.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the Vail
Town Council approves Resolution 2, Series of 2009.
8. Greg Hall ITEM/TOPIC: Discussion of Resolution No. 4, Series 2009, a
Matt Mire Resolution Approving an Intergovernmental Agreement between
Judy Camp the Town of Vail and the Vail Park and Recreation District
Regarding the Golf Course Irrigation System Cost Sharing and
Funding; and Setting Forth Details in Regard Thereto. (10 min.)
ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Approve the IGA, and
authorize the Town Manager to sign and enter into the IGA with
VRD in a form approved by the Town Attorney.
BACKGROUND RATIONALE: Town and Vail Park and
Recreation District (the "VRD ") entered into an intergovernmental
lease agreement dated July 18, 2008 pursuant to which the VRD
will occupy and operate the Town's Vail Municipal Golf Course
(the "Golf Course ") and in which the Town and the VRD set forth
their intentions to make financial contributions toward the
maintenance and repair of the Golf Course improvements. The
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replacement of the Golf Course's 40 ear -old irrigation system
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with a new system (the "Project ") is expected to deliver improved
irrigation coverage, water efficiency, and reliability. The Town will
pay for half the cost of the Project and loan funds to the VRD for
payment of the other half of the Project costs. The Town's
financing of the VRD's contribution pursuant to the
Intergovernmental Agreement ( "IGA ") regarding the cost sharing
and funding for the golf course irrigation system will provide
substantial savings to the taxpayers, including the avoidance of
bond underwriting fees and other bond issuance and
administrative costs
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Approve the IGA, and direct the
Town Manager to sign and enter into the IGA with VRD in a form
approved by the Town Attorney.
9. Nicole Peterson ITEMITOPIC: A work session to review and discuss Resolution No.
26, Series of 2008, a resolution amending the LionsHead
Redevelopment Master Plan to incorporate the property known as
the Glen Lyon Office Building site into the LionsHead
Redevelopment Master Plan Area and to adopt site specific
recommendations for the future redevelopment of the Glen Lyon
Office Building site located at 1000 South Frontage Road West/
Lot 54, Glen Lyon Subdivision, and setting forth details in regard
thereto. (30 min.)
BACKGROUND: On December 8, 2008 the Town of Vail Planning
and Environmental Commission voted 5 -0 -1 (Viele recused) to
forward a recommendation of approval to the Vail Town Council
for Resolution, 5, Series of 2009 (this request) to amend the LRMP
to incorporate the property known as the Glen Lyon Office
Building site and to adopt site specific recommendations for the
redevelopment of the property.
ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Provide staff with any input
Council may have at this time.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: None.
10. ITEM/TOPIC: Information Update. (15 min.)
• Paperless Council Packets.
• Recreation Path Maintenance.
11. ITEMITOPIC: Matters from Mayor & Council. (15 min.)
12. Matt Mire ITEM/TOPIC: Executive Session, pursuant to 1) C.R.S. §24-6 -
402(4)(a)(b)(e) - to discuss the purchase, acquisition, lease,
transfer, or sale of property interests; to receive legal advice on
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specific legal questions; and to determine positions, develop a
strategy matters, Re: Town owned property. (15 min.)
13. ITEM/TOPIC: Adjournment. (3:50 p.m.)
NOTE UPCOMING MEETING START TIMES BELOW:
(ALL TIMES ARE APPROXIMATE AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE)
THE NEXT VAIL TOWN COUNCIL REGULAR WORK SESSION WILL BEGIN AT TBD,
TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2009 IN THE VAIL TOWN COUNCIL CHAMBERS.
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PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
December 22, 2008
12:30pm �
'ti?WiV�'tttltI. ' �
TOWN COUNCIL CHAMBERS / PUBLIC WELCOME
75 S. Frontage Road - Vail, Colorado, 81657
MEMBERS PRESENT MEMBERS ABSENT
Bill Pierce Rollie Kjesbo
Michael Kurz Susie Tjossem
Sarah Paladino
Scott Proper
David Viele
Site Visits: 1:00pm
None
45 Minutes
1. A request for a work session to discuss the establishment of a new special development district,
pursuant to Article 12 -9A, Special Development (SDD) District, Vail Town Code, located at 303
Gore Creek Drive, Units 7 through14 (Vail Rowhouses) /Lots 7 through 14, Block 5, Vail Village
Filing 1, and setting forth details in regard thereto. (PEC080074)
Applicant: Christopher Galvin, represented by K.H. Webb Architects
Planner: Bill Gibson
ACTION: Tabled to January 12, 2009
MOTION: Viele SECOND: Kurz VOTE: 5 -0 -0
Bill Gibson made a presentation per the Staff memorandum.
Commissioner Pierce asked about the potential for demo /rebuilds.
Bill Gibson responded that today, each lot is an individual development site. He said that
because the units are all non - conforming, remodels must keep at least 50% of the existing
structure intact in order to maintain their legal non - conforming status. This was a major issue
because the units had major structural problems, but were still trying to keep 50% of the existing
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Kyle Webb, KH Webb Architects, represented the applicant. Kyle said that in the past, there
have been major issues with construction of existing units on site. An overlay district such as an
SDD will be helpful to remove the need for variances on the property. The site has unique i
setbacks and alignment, and this SDD will help alleviate issues with nonconformity. The
residents just want to protect what they have, and do not want to be subject to reducing the
number of units to comply with regulations.
Commissioner Pierce asked about the elimination of GRFA for the project. He asked the
applicant to prepare an analysis of the size of the units with GRFA limits and the potential size
without GRFA limits. Bill Pierce also asked why the height was reduced.
Webb said that 48 feet in height is more suitable to multifamily stacked units, but 45 feet in
height is adequate for this project. The tallest unit is 45 feet today, and this would be the
maximum for all units.
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Commissioner Viele asked if all the residents are co- applicants. Webb responded that all
residents are aware and agree with the proposal, but have not all signed the application yet. He
indicated that their homeowner's association meeting will be held later this week, and they will
collectively discuss the proposal further. Upon receiving all signatures, the application will go for
final review. Viele commented that if you requesting an SDD rather than a variance, you are
subjected to a legislative process which can be uncertain.
Commissioner Paladino asked what prompted the application. Webb responded that an owner
of two units would like to renovate, but it would be difficult to do so without variances and leaving
more than 50% of the structure intact. He said the proposed SDD is a way to clean up some
non - conformities permanently.
Bill Gibson added that this is different than the typical SDD application. The goal is not to grant
applicants more development potential, but to allow existing conditions to remain.
Webb indicated that their intent is to set up the SDD standards to be very clear about the future
of the properties.
Commissioner Kurz asked how many units have gone through major renovations. Webb
responded that two units of the seven have been recently renovated.
Commissioner Pierce asked about the extent of the changes from existing zoning. Bill Gibson
highlighted the comparisons in the memorandum. The applicant agreed to conduct an analysis
of two units to show potential build -out scenarios.
45 Minutes
2. A request for final recommendations to the Vail Town Council, for the proposed adoption of the
Chamonix Master Plan, to facilitate the development of Employee Housing and a Fire Station on
the "Chamonix Parcel" and "Wendy's Parcel" and a final recommendation to the Vail Town
Council to amend the Vail Land Use Plan, pursuant to Section 8 -3, Amendment Process, Vail
Land Use Plan to designate the Chamonix Master Plan area, located at 2399 North Frontage
Road and 2310 Chamonix Road /Parcels A & B, re- subdivision of Tract D, Vail Das Schone Filing
1, and setting forth details in regard thereto. (PEC080058)
Applicant: Town of Vail
Planner: Nina Timm
ACTION: Recommendation of approval with modifications
MOTION: Kurz SECOND: Paladino VOTE: 4 -1 -0 (Proper against)
CONDITION(S):
1. The financial feasibility study shall be deleted from the master plan document.
Nina Timm made a presentation per the Staff memorandum.
Commissioner Kurz noted that the use of employee housing mitigation fees may be appropriate
for this project. The proposed design would create a community feel, but the close proximity to
emergency vehicles may not be appropriate for families. He stated a concern that there may be
a disconnection between the desired outcomes and the actual costs.
Commissioners Pierce and Viele asked for clarification about the process and what is specifically
being requested of the Commission. George Ruther clarified the purpose of the application.
Commissioner Paladino asked about the inclusion of a specific density in the plan. George
Ruther explained how the proposed unit number recommendation was derived from advisory
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board meetings. Commissioner Paladino then recommended a range of units, rather than a
specific recommendation.
Commissioner Kurz noted his concerns about the financial components included in the master
plan.
Commissioner Viele stated that discussing the economics of the project is not within the purview
of the Commission, adding his discomfort in voting on this project if questions of finances are
being asked. George Ruther stated that the financial information is only provided to conceptually
validate the feasibility of constructing the project.
Commissioner Viele recommended the Council determine whether or not the project is to be
subsidized and then come forward with a development plan.
Commissioner Pierce noted that while the financial information is good to have, it should not be
included in the master plan document.
Commissioner Proper asked for clarification about the targeted market.
Commissioner Paladino asked for clarification of a "family ". Nina Timm explained the
qualifications of a "family ".
Commissioner Proper asked how the fire station revisions were determined. Nina Timm
explained that the changes were based upon programmatic needs.
Commissioner Pierce asked for a clarification of the next steps. George Ruther explained the
next steps.
Commissioner Kurz recommended separating out the master plan component and the economic
analysis component. Commissioner Paladino agreed with Commissioner Kurz. Commissioner
Viele expressed his general concern about the financial analysis.
Commissioner Pierce stated he believes the plan answers many of the questions developers
would ask in creating a proposal for development.
30 Minutes
3. A request for a work session to discuss prescribed regulation amendments, pursuant to Section
12 -3 -7, Amendment, Vail Town Code, to Section 12 -61 -8, Parking and Loading, and Chapter 12-
10, Off Street Parking and Loading, Vail Town Code, to amend parking requirements for
employee housing units and to clarify the parking requirements in the Housing (H) zone district,
and setting forth details in regard thereto. (PEC080067)
Applicant: Town of Vail
Planner: George Ruther
ACTION: Tabled to January 12, 2009
MOTION: Viele SECOND: Kurz VOTE: 5 -0 -0
60 Minutes
4. A request for a work session for a review of a preliminary plan for a major subdivision, pursuant
to Chapter 13 -3, Major Subdivision, Vail Town Code, to allow for the creation of two lots for the
redevelopment of the properties known as "Ever Vail' (West Lionshead), located at 862, 923,
934, 953, and 1031 South Frontage Road West, and the South Frontage Road West right -of-
way /Unplatted (a complete legal description is available for inspection at the Town of Vail
Community Development Department), and setting forth details in regard thereto. (PEC080062)
Applicant: Vail Resorts, represented by Mauriello Planning Group, LLC
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Planner: Warren Campbell /George Ruther
ACTION: Tabled to January 12, 2009
MOTION: Kurz SECOND: Palandino VOTE: 5 -0 -0
George Ruther made a presentation per the Staff memorandum and noted that transportation
issues are the main focus of the work session.
Members of the design team, led by Michael Brecka, made presentations on behalf of the
applicant. Kent Kramer presented an overview of the proposed frontage road design. Gary
Workling presented an overview of the frontage road landscaping design. Tom Miller discussed
the proposed street retaining walls. Michael Brecka discussed the proposed project parking
locations.
Greg Hall, Director of Public Works, further elaborated on the frontage road design elements.
Commissioner Kurz clarified that the frontage road will be excavated to a lower elevation than I-
70 and that interstate guardrails will be in place.
Commissioner Viele confirmed that retaining walls are required with or without the Simba
underpass. He asked if the walls are to facilitate the underpass or the development.
Greg Hall stated that the majority of the retaining walls will facilitate the Ever Vail development.
He then described the proposed culvert over Red Sandstone Creek, rather than the construction
of a bridge. He also discussed bike lanes vs. bike paths, with the primary benefits of a path
being year -round maintenance opportunities and the duel use as a sidewalk.
Commissioner Pierce expressed concerns about the significant height and length of the
proposed retaining walls. He asked if the development site could be filled. He noted that
retaining walls generally show that something is being forced on the site.
Tom Miller responded that grades are being driven by the Simba Run underpass.
Commissioner Viele asked if the grades are set to Simba Run or Ever Vail. Michael Brecka
clarified that both items and several other factors are affecting the proposed grades.
Commissioner Pierce noted the disturbing view of a semi truck 20 feet above the frontage roads.
Commissioner Kurz noted the need for visual relief from the interstate to the frontage road, and
compared the proposal to Confluence Park in Denver.
Commissioner Viele request civil drawings be provided for review.
Gary Walking noted that the raising the frontage road closer to the interstate elevation causes
the lower road to have taller walls and further separates the project from the creek.
Commissioner Pierce stated that a better relationship is needed to celebrate the creek, and a
culvert does not achieve that goal.
Commissioner Viele would like to see the full plan including Simba Run, and a full plan without
the Simba Run underpass. If the underpass drives the height, he recommended looking at
alternatives such as an overpass.
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Commissioner Pierce asked about types of vegetation that could be planted in the road medians.
He re- iterated that the new frontage road will feel as if it is in a hole or canyon. He also
recommended discussing interstate noise mitigation at a future date.
Commissioner Viele stated that there appears to be a huge strip of asphalt through the center of
town that appears to be excessive. The goal should be to reduce the retaining wall as much as
possible, even at the loss of a bike lane.
Commissioner Proper asked about the interface with the ERWSD plant. He agreed with
reducing the retaining wall heights.
Commissioner Kurz agreed with Viele and Proper's comments. He said there needs to be a
better environmental transition and antecedent. He believes there should be an improved
connection to the Cascade Village to encourage economic vitality and rejuvenation in that area.
Tom Miller indicated that they will return with a variety of road and retaining wall design studies.
Commissioner Pierce requested a study showing what type of plant materials can be planted in
which locations in and along the new road.
Commissioner Paladino requested a more visible bike path plan.
5 Minutes
5. A request for a final review of a major exterior alteration, pursuant to Section 12 -7H -7, Exterior
Alterations or Modifications; and requests for conditional use permits, pursuant to Section 12 -7H-
2, Permitted and Conditional Uses, Basement or Garden Level; Section 12 -7H -3, Permitted and
Conditional Uses, First Floor or Street Level; 12 -7H-4, Permitted and Conditional Uses; Second
Floor and Above, Vail Town Code, to allow for the redevelopment of the Evergreen Lodge, with
dwelling units, accommodation units, and conference facilities and meeting rooms on the
basement or garden level, multi - family dwelling units, accommodation units and conference
facilities and meetings rooms on the first floor or street level, and a fractional fee club on the
second floor and above, located at 250 South Frontage Road West/Lot 2, Block 1, Vail
Lionshead Filing 2, and setting forth details in regard thereto. (PEC080033, PEC080072)
Applicant: HCT Development, represented by TJ Brink
Planner: Rachel Friede
ACTION: Table to January 12, 2009
MOTION: Kurz SECOND: Palandino VOTE: 5 -0 -0
5 Minutes
6. A request for a final recommendation to the Vail Town Council of proposed amendments to the
Vail Village Master Plan, pursuant to Section VIII -B, Adoption, Extensions, and Amendments,
Vail Village Master Plan, to amend Sub -area #4, Transportation Center, to allow for a mixed -use
development on the south side of the Vail Village parking structure, located at 241 East Meadow
Drive /Parts of Tracts B and C, Vail Village Filing 1 (a complete description is available at the
Community Development Department upon request), and setting forth details in regard thereto.
(PEC080015)
Applicant: Triumph Development, LLC, represented by Rick Pylman
Planner: George Ruther
ACTION: Table to January 26, 2009
MOTION: Kurz SECOND: Palandino VOTE: 5 -0-0
5 Minutes
7. A request for final review of conditional use permits, pursuant to Section 12 -71 -5, Conditional
Uses: Generally (On All Levels Of A Building Or Outside Of A Building), Vail Town Code, to allow
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for the development of a public or private parking lot (parking structure); a vehicle maintenance,
service, repair, storage, and fueling facility; a ski lift and tow (gondola), within "Ever Vail' (West
Lionshead), located at 862, 923, 934, 953, and 1031 South Frontage Road West, and the South
Frontage Road West right-of-way/U n platted (a complete legal description is available for
inspection at the Town of Vail Community Development Department), and setting forth details in
regard thereto. (PEC080063)
Applicant: Vail Resorts, represented by Mauriello Planning Group, LLC
Planner: Warren Campbell
ACTION: Table to March 9, 2009
MOTION: Kurz SECOND: Palandino VOTE: 5 -0-0
5 Minutes
8. A request for a final review of major exterior alterations, pursuant to Section 12 -71 -7, Exterior
Alterations or Modifications, Vail Town Code, to allow for the redevelopment of the area known
as "Ever Vail' (West Lionshead), with multiple mixed -use structures including but not limited to,
multiple - family dwelling units, fractional fee units, accommodation units, employee housing units,
office, and commercial /retail uses, located at 862, 923, 934, 953, and 1031 South Frontage
Road West, and the South Frontage Road West rig ht-of-way/U nplatted (a complete legal
description is available for inspection at the Town of Vail Community Development Department),
and setting forth details in regard thereto. (PEC080064)
Applicant: Vail Resorts, represented by Mauriello Planning Group, LLC
Planner: Warren Campbell
ACTION: Table to March 9, 2009
MOTION: Kurz SECOND: Palandino VOTE: 5 -0 -0
5 Minutes
9. A request for a final recommendation to the Vail Town Council for prescribed regulation
amendments, pursuant to Section 12 -3 -7, Amendment, Vail Town Code, to amend Section 12-
10-19, Core Areas Identified, Vail Town Code, to amend the core area parking maps to include
"Ever Vail" (West Lionshead) within the "Commercial Core" designation, and setting forth details
in regard thereto. (PEC080065)
Applicant: Vail Resorts, represented by Mauriello Planning Group, LLC
Planner: Warren Campbell
ACTION: Table to March 9, 2009
MOTION: Kurz SECOND: Palandino VOTE: 5 -0 -0
5 Minutes
10. A request for a final recommendation to the Vail Town Council for a zone district boundary
amendment, pursuant to 12 -3 -7, Amendments, Vail Town Code, to allow for a rezoning of
properties from Arterial Business District and unzoned South Frontage Road West right -of -way
which is not zoned to Lionshead Mixed Use -2, properties known as "Ever Vail' (West
Lionshead), located at 953 and 1031 South Frontage Road West and South Frontage Road
West right -of -way, (a complete legal description is available for inspection at the Town of Vail
Community Development Department), and setting forth details in regard thereto. (PEC080061)
Applicant: Vail Resorts, represented by Mauriello Planning Group, LLC
Planner: Warren Campbell
ACTION: Table to March 9, 2009
MOTION: Kurz SECOND: Palandino VOTE: 5 -0 -0
11. Approval of December 8, 2008 minutes
MOTION: Kurz SECOND: Palandino VOTE: 4 -0 -1 (Proper abstained)
12. Information Update
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13. Adjournment
MOTION: Kurz SECOND: Viele VOTE: 5 -0 -0
The applications and information about the proposals are available for public inspection during regular
office hours at the Town of Vail Community Development Department, 75 South Frontage Road. The
public is invited to attend the project orientation and the site visits that precede the public hearing in the
Town of Vail Community Development Department. Please call (970) 479 -2138 for additional
information.
Sign language interpretation is available upon request with 24 -hour notification. Please call (970)
479 -2356, Telephone for the Hearing Impaired, for information.
Community Development Department
Published December 19, 2008, in the Vail Daily.
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DESIGN REVIEW BOARD AGENDA
PUBLIC MEETING
December 17, 2008
o � Council Chambers
75 S. Frontage Road - Vail, Colorado, 81657
PROJECT ORIENTATION 12:30pm
MEMBERS PRESENT MEMBERS ABSENT
Tom DuBois
Mike Dantas
Pete Dunning
Brian Gillette
Libby Plante
SITE VISITS 1:30pm
1. Billy's Island Grill, 610 West Lionshead Circle
2. Stephens Park, 2450 South Frontage Road
PUBLIC HEARING — TOWN COUNCIL CHAMBERS 3:00pm
1. Stephens Park DRB080573 / 15 Minutes Nicole
Final review of a minor exterior alteration (water diversion structure) j
2450 South Frontage Road West/Unplatted
Applicant: Town of Vail, represented by Tom Kassmel
ACTION: Approved
MOTION: DuBois SECOND: Gillette VOTE: 5 -0 -0
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2. Qwest Tower DRB080585 / 10 Minutes Bill
Final review of an addition (antennas, equip shelter, generator)
165 North Frontage Road West/Lot 2, Middle Creek Subdivision
Applicant: Black & Veatech Corporation
ACTION: Approved
MOTION: Plante SECOND: DuBois VOTE: 5 -0 -0
3. Billy's Island Grill DRB080595 / 10 Minutes Bill
Final review of a sign
610 West Lionshead Circle, Suite C- 200 /Lot 1, Block 1, Vail Lionshead 3rd
Applicant: Billy Suarez
ACTION: Approved with condition(s)
MOTION: Dantas SECOND: DuBois VOTE: 5 -0 -0
CONDITION(S):
1. The text of the sign shall be changed from "Billy's Island Grill" to the new business name
"Billy's Upstairs ".
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4. Rucksack Building DRB080609 / 15 Minutes Rachel /Nicole
Final review of a sign program
288 Bridge Street/Lot D, Block 5A, Vail Village Filing 1
Applicant: Rucksack, represented by Fritzlen Pierce Architects
ACTION: Approved
MOTION: DuBois SECOND: Gillette VOTE: 5 -0 -0
STAFF APPROVALS
Reichman Residence DRB080347 Bill
Final review of a minor exterior alteration (berm)
4240 Spruce Way /Lot 1, Block 7, Bighorn T re- subdivision lots 1,2,3
Applicant: Carol Reichman
Mountain View DRB080515 Warren
Final review of changes to approved plans (landscaping relocation, change to railing configuration)
434 South Frontage Road West/Lot D, Vail Village Filing 5
Applicant: Lunar Vail, represented by Ron Constein
Leon Residence DRB080548 Rachel
Final review of a minor exterior alteration (deck addition)
1650 Sunburst Drive, Unit 60 /1-ot 1, Sunburst Filing 3
Applicant: Rene Leon, represented by Extreme Builders
Zug Residence DRBOB0578 Bill
Final review of an addition (entry, living room, bedrooms)
1548 Spring Hill Lane /Lot 1, Block 3, Vail Valley Filing 2
Applicant: D. Brooks Zug, represented by Fritzlen Pierce Architects
Manrico Cashmere DRB080587 Rachel
Final review of a sign
242 East Meadow Drive /Lot B, Block 5, Vail Village Filing 1
Applicant: Manrico USA Inc
Watts Residence DRB080588 Rachel
Final review of a minor alteration (re -roof)
1170 Casolar Drive Unit B /Lot 8B, Lions Ridge Filing 1
Applicant: Barry Watts, represented by The Roofing Company
Woodings Residence DRB080593 Bill
Final review of changes to approved plans (landscaping, driveway, stairs)
1694 Matterhorn Circle /Lot 12, Matterhorn Village
Applicant: Ted Woodings, represented by John Martin
Big Bear Bistro DRB080594 Rachel
Final review of a sign
304 Bridge Street/Lots E, F, Block 5A, Vail Village Filing 1
Applicant: Vidette Gehl, Big Bear Bistro
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Timberline Lodge Redevelopment DRB080606 Warren
Final review of changes to approved plans (extension of DR13070687)
1783 North Frontage Road West/Lots 9 -12, Buffehr Creek Resubdivision
Applicant: Timberline Lodge Redevelopment, represented by Greg Gastineau
The applications and information about the proposals are available for public inspection during regular office
hours in the project planner's office, located at the Town of Vail Community Development Department, 75
South Frontage Road. Please call 479 -2138 for information.
Sign language interpretation available upon request with 24 hour notification. Please call 479 -2356,
Telephone for the Hearing Impaired, for information.
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MEMORANDUM
TO: Vail Town Council
FROM: Community Development Department
DATE: January 6, 2009
SUBJECT: Work Session to Discuss 2009 Code Revision Project
L SUMMARY
The purpose of this work session is to introduce the 2009 Code Revision Project and to
provide an opportunity for the Vail Town Council to provide feedback on the project. The
2009 Code Revision Project is a coordination among stakeholders to provide a
comprehensive review of Titles 10 (Building Regulations), 11(Sign Regulations), 12
(Zoning Regulations), 13 (Subdivision Regulations) and 14 (Development Standards), all
of which pertain to development within the Town of Vail. The project will identify current
issues, establish goals and policy objectives, and will result in a coordinated rewrite of
the above Titles to meet established goals and objectives.
Staff requests the Vail Town Council listens to the Staff presentation, asks any pertinent
questions, and provides input on the scope of work, the project process and next steps.
II. BACKGROUND
The Vail Town Code was established in 1966 and has been repealed, reenacted and
amended many times since then. In most cases, amendments to these titles have been
reactive to current issues, and have lacked coordination and strategic focus. Title 10,
Building Regulations, Vail Town Code, has been amended each time a new building
code is adopted, with amendments to the adopted building code included in this Title.
The most recent adoption of a new building code was in 2003, with the adoption of the
2003 International Building Code. Title 11, Sign Regulations, was repealed and
reenacted in 2000, and has since seen numerous amendments ranging from
housekeeping amendments to changes in policy. Title 12, Zoning Regulations, was
adopted in 1966, and completely rewritten in 1973. Since then, there have been
upwards of 20 amendments to the Zoning Regulations per year. Title 13, Subdivision
Regulations, was adopted in 1966 and rewritten in 1983. Title 14, Development
Standards, was adopted in 1999 as a reference guide for development, and was codified
in 2005. Since 2005, this Title has been amended numerous times to update
development standards for planning, building, fire and public works.
These five titles, referred to herein as the "relevant Titles," have seen an excess of
amendments since their adoption. After many years of amendments, the Town needs to
conduct a comprehensive review and revision of the relevant Titles to provide a clear,
concise code that is supported by the community at large. The 2009 Code Revision
Project will provide a proactive, coordinated effort and strategic focus that is necessary
to address a multitude of issues, including the following:
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• i conditions since the adoption of the relevant titles including:
Changing co t p : 9
■ The pending adoption of the 2009 International Building Code; and
■ Environmental stewardship as a top priority for the community, leading to the
need for sustainability and green building to be incorporated into the relevant
Titles.
• Existing conditions of the relevant titles, including, but not limited to:
■ Disorganization among Titles, Chapter and Sections, with many regulations
hidden within irrelevant Section headings; and
■ Lack of cohesive language through the relevant titles, leaving many
inconsistencies between Titles due to numerous revisions; and
■ Lack of coordination among the Vail Comprehensive Plan and the relevant
Titles; and
■ Lack of clear explanation of the roles of boards and commissions as they
apply to the relevant Titles; and
■ Lack of tangible design guidelines to adequately back up policies that are
enacted by Staff, the DRB and the Vail Town Council; and
■ Adoption of forty (40) Special Development Districts that are not codified
within the Vail Town Code, thus creating administrative challenges; and
■ Policies that have not been affirmed by the public and the Vail Town Council
since their inception, in some cases, over 20 years ago.
III. PROCESS AND SCOPE OF WORK
The following is a summary of a proposed process and scope of work for completing the
2009 Code Revision Project. The purpose of this summary is to provide Staff and
Council with an understanding of the proposed product, workgroup and schedule
required to complete this scope of work.
Step 1: Project Initiation: This initial phase will allow Staff to solidify the process for this
project, inform the public and gain buy -in from stakeholders.
Timeframe: One Month: January 2009
Step 2: Information Collection and Analysis: Staff will compile information on the
existing Code and provide a report that outlines existing conditions of the Town, existing
conditions and issues of the pertinent Titles of the Vail Town Code, and outline State
and Federal regulations that pertain to this project. The report will identify the main
issues and problems associated with the existing Code through a variety of outreach
methods, including interviews and focus groups.
Timeframe: Two Months: February - March 2009
Step 3: Convene an executive committee of two Staff members, two Town Council
members, two PEC members, one DRB member and three member of the community
who are involved in the development process. This committee will meet biweekly to
establish project goals, policy objectives, and a consistent format for the pertinent Titles,
provide direction to Staff on necessary research, and to work with Staff to solidify the
language of the proposed relevant Titles.
Timeframe: Six Months: April - September 2009
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Step 4: Convene subcommittees as necessary, including the Building Board of Appeals,
groups of local architects, developers /builders, utility companies, etc, in order to provide
insight to existing and proposed requirements of the Vail Town Code.
Timeframe: Concurrent with Step 3.
Step 5: Coordinate efforts of subcommittees with executive committee to ensure that
project goals and policy objectives are in line with proposed code requirements.
Timeframe: Concurrent with Steps 3 & 4
Step 6: Finalize proposed Code language, amendments to the Zoning Map, and format
new regulations to prepare for adoption.
Timeframe: One Month: October 2009
Step 7: Review Process: The review process will involve presentations to inter - agency
staff, the PEC, DRB and finally, to the Town Council.
Timeframe: One Month: November 2009
Step 8: Implementation: Provide education to the public and implement the new
regulations.
Timeframe: Immediately upon approval and ongoing
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IV. BUDGET
The Town of Vail has very limited funds for planning projects in 2009, and thus, would
like to limit the amount of funds necessary for this project. Staff estimates that the
project will have the following costs:
Meeting Materials: $1,000
Advertising Costs: $1,000
Cost from Codifier: TBD
Estimated Staff Time: 1,410 hours
(1 Staff @ 30hrs /week for 11 months plus 3 Staff @ 30 hrs total)
V. ACTION REQUESTED
Staff requests the Vail Town Council listens to the presentation, asks any pertinent
questions, and provides direction on process, scope of work and next steps. Staff
recommends proceeding with the project and initiating Step 1. Staff will return to the Vail
Town Council with additional information and a detailed schedule for the project, should
the Council instruct Staff to proceed.
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MEMORANDUM
TO: Town Council
FROM: Community Development Department
DATE: January 6, 2009
SUBJECT: A work session to discuss the unintended affects of construction work lighting,
and how the Town may choose to proceed with mitigation of the impacts.
Applicant: Town of Vail
Planner: Bill Gibson
I. DESCRIPTION OF THE REQUEST
A work session to discuss the unintended affects of construction work lighting, and how
the Town may choose to proceed with mitigation of the impacts.
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fl. BACKGROUND
On October 21, 2008, during the review of Ordinance No. 21, Series of 2008, an
ordinance amending the Town's outdoor lighting regulations, the Council instructed Staff
to propose options for addressing the unintended affects construction work lighting.
Staff has prepared options for the Council to consider.
Construction site lighting for access, egress, etc. is already regulated by the Vail Town
Code; however, lights used specifically for construction work activities are currently not
regulated.
Ill. DISCUSSION ITEMS
Staff requests the Council provide policy direction on the following items related to the j
possible regulation of construction site work lighting:
1. What impactslaffects of construction work lighting is the Town attempting to
mitigate?
Should the Town attempt to mitigate the affects of work lighting to reduce light pollution
(dark sky), reduce light trespass and glare onto adjacent properties, or reduce the public
visibility of construction sites, etc.?
2. Are there any related issues beyond construction work lighting that need to be
addressed?
Currently the Town does not regulate construction work hours. The Town only regulates
the hours and time of year when the public street right -of -ways can be used for
construction activities. The Town also enforces the adopted general noise ordinance
(applies to any "excessively or unusually load noise" as defined by Section 5 -1 -7, Vail
Town Code) which is more restrictive from 11:00pm to 7:00am. Are the cumulative
affects of construction activities (lighting, noise, dust, traffic, etc.) grievous enough to
warrant consideration of more restrictively controlling construction activities in general,
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rather than only further controlling work lighting?
3. Which construction work activities, in what locations, at what times, should the
Town consider mitigating?
Construction site lighting for access, egress, etc. is already regulated by the Vail Town
Code; however, lights used specifically for construction -work activities are currently not
regulated.
Should the Town mitigate work lighting for every construction project or only certain
activities (large commercial projects, small residential renovations, street work, utility
work, etc.)?
Should the Town mitigate work lighting throughout the entire community, or only in
specific areas (Vail Village and Lionshead, properties adjacent to residential uses, within
the street right -of -ways, etc.)
Should the Town limit the hours of the day when work lighting is allowed? (what about
road work or emergency utility repairs ?)
4. Should the possible mitigation method be adopted as prescriptive regulations,
performance standards or as general guidelines?
Prescriptive regulations are "black- and - white" rules that establish a clear methodology
for achieving a desired outcome. Any adopted regulations should be quantifiable (ex. 'Y'
number of allowed foot candies of light as measured from a specific point). Regulations
are inflexible and any deviation to the regulation could only be permitted through a
separate review process such as the review and issuance of a variance.
Guidelines make recommendation for the methodology that should be used to achieve a
desired outcome. Guidelines may allow for flexibility and may be more responsive to
changing conditions; however, guidelines are subject to interpretation and may be vague
in some circumstances.
Performance standards are an alternative to prescriptive regulations and guidelines.
Performance standards establish clearly defined outcomes, but do not typically regulate
how that outcome is to be achieved.
Regardless of which method is selected, the ability of the Town to efficiently and
effectively enforce any new regulation, guideline, or performance standard is an
important consideration.
5. Should the Town incorporate the possible mitigation into the Town's zoning
regulations, building codes, nuisance regulations, etc.?
The Town's master plans, zoning regulations, and design guidelines generally regulate
the end result of construction activities (the final land use, the completed building, etc.).
The Town's adopted building codes generally regulate construction techniques and
methodology used to achieved the desired outcomes of building activities. The Town's
nuisance regulations apply generally to any activity negatively affecting the public health
and safety (ex. junk, weeds, noise, snow /ice removal, etc.).
6. How would the possible mitigation address the practical realities of the ever
changing construction sites and work activities?
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A work lighting plan could be drafted by an applicant, and then reviewed and approved
by the Town. However, that plan would likely become out -of -date, inaccurate, or even
irrelevant within a short time of it being drafted. Construction sites, especially large
commercial projects, involve the efforts of numerous construction trades (structural,
mechanical, electrical, plumbing, landscaping, etc.) all working simultaneously on a
variety of tasks in multiple locations of the site at different times. How should the
possible mitigation address this complex mix of people, activities, and locations?
Additionally, the visibility of work lighting can be dramatically altered by the progression
of the construction project itself. Structure elements, exterior walls, or simply temporary
weather proofing can suddenly obscure once visible work lights.
IV. STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the mitigation of construction work lighting:
• only focuses on reducing light trespass and glare onto adjacent properties; and,
• is applied to all construction projects, in all neighborhoods of Vail; and,
• is adopted as general guidelines; and,
• is incorporated into the Town's nuisance regulations; and,
• is drafted to be flexible and responsive to changing work site conditions, yet
easily enforceable.
Generally, construction work task lighting is both temporary and portable in nature;
unlike fixed construction site lighting which is already controlled b the Town's outdoor
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lighting regulations. Given the temporary and portable nature of work lighting, Staff
believes the Town's primary focus should be on mitigating the impacts of such lighting
on adjacent property. Staff believes work lighting at any construction site can have
negative impacts on the neighboring properties; and the Town should address these
concerns community wide.
Staff recommends the Town adopts general guidelines to reduce any negative impacts
of work lighting and to encourage "good neighbor" practices. Staff has concerns that j
prescriptive regulations would be inflexible, slow to respond to evolving construction site
conditions /circumstances, and difficult to enforce.
Staff believes any new regulations, performance standards, or guidelines should be
incorporated into the Town's nuisance regulations which can be enforced community
wide by not only the Community Development Department, but also by the Police
Department during non- business office hours.
Staff requests the Council provide policy direction concerning the mitigation of
construction work lighting's unintended affects.
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ORDINANCE NO.1
SERIES OF 2009
AN EMERGENCY ORDINANCE AMENDING THE TOWN OF VAIL'S DEBT SERVICE FUND BUDGET
FOR 2008; MAKING SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS THERETO; AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENCY.
WHEREAS, the Town of Vail, in the County of Eagle and State of Colorado (the "Town "), is a home
rule Town duly existing under the Constitution and laws of the State of Colorado and its home rule charter (the
"Charter"); and
WHEREAS, the members of the Town Council of the Town (the "Council ") have been duly elected and
qualified; and
WHEREAS, the Council has previously passed and adopted Ordinance No. 20, Series of 2008 on
September 16, 2008 and Ordinance No. 32, Series of 2008 on December 16, 2008, (the "Bond Ordinances "),
authorizing the issuance of the Town's Sales Tax Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series 2008 (the "Bonds "); and
WHEREAS, the financial details of the transaction became known when the Bonds were priced on !
December 18, 2008 and were finalized when the Bonds closed on December 30, 2008, which date is included i
in the Town's 2008 fiscal year; and
WHEREAS, this transaction could not have been reasonably foreseen or anticipated by the Town
Council at the time it enacted Ordinance No. 29, Series of 2007, adopting the 2008 Budget and Financial Plan
for the Town of Vail, Colorado; and,
WHEREAS, the Town Manager has certified to the Town Council that sufficient funds are available
from the Bond issuance to discharge the appropriations referred to herein, not otherwise reflected in the
Budget, in accordance with Section 9.10(a) of the Charter of the Town of Vail; and,
WHEREAS, Section 4.11 of the Charter provides that an ordinance may be passed as an emergency
measure for the preservation of the public property, health, welfare, peace or safety, upon unanimous vote of
all members of the Council present or a vote of five members of the Council, whichever is less, and
WHEREAS, in order to properly reflect the bond issuance as a 2008 transaction and promptly pay costs
of issuance, the Town Council finds that it should make certain supplemental appropriations and budget
adjustments as set forth herein.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF VAIL,
COLORADO that:
1. Pursuant to Section 9.10(a) of the Charter of the Town of Vail, Colorado, the Town
Council hereby makes the following supplemental appropriations and budget adjustments for the
2008 Budget and Financial Plan for the Town of Vail, Colorado, and authorizes the-expenditure or (reduction)
of said appropriations as follows:
Debt Service Fund $ 6,503,221.00
Ordinance No.1, Series of 2009
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2. Due to the immediate need by the Town to record the bond closing in the proper fiscal
year and to promptly pay costs of issuing the bonds, an emergency exists which requires the immediate
passage of this ordinance as an emergency measure, and it is hereby declared that the approval of this
ordinance as an emergency measure is necessary for the preservation of the public property, health, welfare,
peace or safety.
3. Pursuant to Section 4.11 of the Charter, this ordinance shall be finally passed on the
date hereof and shall be effective on the date hereof. This ordinance, as adopted by the Council, shall be
numbered and recorded by the Town clerk of the Town in the official records of the Town. The ordinance shall
be authenticated by signatures of the Mayor and Town Clerk of the Town, and shall be published within ten
days of the date hereof as required by the Charter.
4. If any part, section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance is for any reason
held to be invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this ordinance; and the
Town Council hereby declares it would have passed this ordinance, and each part, section, subsection,
sentence, clause or phrase thereof, regardless of the fact that any one or more parts, sections, subsections,
sentences, clauses or phrases be declared invalid.
5. The repeal or the repeal and reenactment of any provision of the Municipal Code of the Town
of Vail as provided in this ordinance shall not affect any right which has accrued, any duty imposed, any
violation that occurred prior to the effective date hereof, any prosecution commenced, nor any other action or
proceedings as commenced under or by virtue of the provision repealed or repealed and reenacted. The
repeal of any provision hereby shall not revive any provision or any ordinance previously repealed or
superseded unless expressly stated herein.
6. All bylaws, orders, resolutions, and ordinances, or parts thereof, inconsistent herewith are
repealed to the extent only of such inconsistency. This repealer shall not be construed to revise any bylaw,
order, resolution, or ordinance, or part thereof, theretofore repealed.
INTRODUCED AND FINALLY PASSED AS AN EMERGENCY MEASURE AND ORDERED
PUBLISHED ONCE IN FULL this 6TH day of January, 2009.
Dick Cleveland, Mayor
ATTEST:
Lorelei Donaldson Town Clerk
Ordinance No. 1, Series of 2009
• Special Amendment 2008
TOWN OF VAIL 2008 BUDGET
_ SUMMARY OF R EVENUE, EXPENDITURES, AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE
DEBT SERVICE FUND
Proposed
Budget Ammended Special Amended
2008 2008 Amendment 2008
Revenue
Transfer from Capital Projects Fund $ 2,321,825 $ 2,321,825 $ 2,321,825
Earnings on Investments
Total Revenue 2,321,825 2,321,825 - 2,321,825
Expenditures
Principal 1,890,000 1,890,000 1,890,000
Interest Expense 432,396 432,396 432,396
Fiscal Agent Fees 2,500 2,500 2,500
Refunding Bonds Issuance Costs 106,760 106,760
Total Expenditures 2,324,896 2,324,896 106,760 2,431,656
Revenue Over (Under) Expenditures (3,071) (3,071) (106,760) (109,831)
Other Financing Sources (Uses)
Proceeds of Refunding Bonds 6,503,221 6,503,221
Payments to Refunded Bonds Escrow 6,396,461 6,396,461
Total Other Financing sources (Uses) - - 106,760 106,760
Beginning Fund Balance 247,154 252,710 252,710
Ending Fund Balance $ 244,083 $ 249,639 $ - $ 249,639
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MEMORANDUM
TO: Vail Town Council
FROM: Community Development Department
DATE: January 6, 2009
SUBJECT: Resolution 1, Series of 2009: a resolution adopting the Vail Environmental
Sustainability Strategic Plan, and set forth action steps in regard thereto.
I. PURPOSE
The purpose of this agenda item is to review and vote on Resolution 1, Series of
2009. Resolution 1, Series of 2009, is a resolution adopting the Vail
Environmental Sustainability Strategic Plan, a five year master plan which
defines the broad policy statement, goals, objectives and actions identified to
fulfill the Town of Vail community vision of environmental health and
sustainability.
II. DESCRIPTION OF THE REQUEST
The Town of Vail Environmental Team, represented by Kristen Bertuglia,
Environmental Sustainability Coordinator and Bill Carlson, Environmental Health
Officer, on behalf of the Community Development Department, Vail Sustainability
Advisory Committee, and Planning and Environmental Commission request final
review of Resolution 1, Series of 2009. Should the Town Council choose to
approve Resolution 1, Series of 2009, Staff recommends that the motion
determine that the following goals and objectives are consistent and appropriate
to ensure that:
"The Town of Vail shall serve as a nationally recognized leader in
sustainability through a commitment to community partnerships and
balanced stewardship of human, financial and environmental
resources in policy and daily operations." — (Town of Vail
Environmental Sustainability Policy Statement)
Goal #1: Solid Waste Stream Reduction and Recycling: Reduce the amount of
TOV landfill contributions by 10% within 5 years, and 25% within 10 years.
Objectives:
1. Create a culture of waste reduction and resource efficiency by delivering a
clear and consistent message of resource efficiency through community
messages and guest experiences.
2. Develop education program(s) to increase waste reduction, reuse, and
recycling program participation rates of TOV employees and the Vail
community.
3. Implement a 'Pay as you Throw' (PAYT) curbside waste pickup and recycling
program in TOV.
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4. Hold annual waste diversion events within TOV.
5. Promote and eventually require recycling of construction waste and building
material.
6. Collaborate with Garfield, Pitkin and Eagle Counties toward a regional solid
waste diversion program that streamlines recycling and waste reduction.
Goal #2: Energy Efficiency: Reduce the TOV municipal and community energy
use by 20% below 2006 levels by 2020, in order to effectively reduce the Town's
contribution to greenhouse gas emissions and impact on global climate change.
Objectives:
1. Track and reduce TOV municipal and community energy use and GHG
emissions.
2. Implement Green Building Code Program that requires new construction and
major renovations to achieve designated resource and energy efficiency
targets.
3. Update zoning standards and design guidelines to accommodate and
encourage new energy reduction targets and sustainable design features.
4. Implement energy efficiency and conservation measures for municipal
facilities.
5. Increase fuel efficiency, reduce fuel and oil consumption, and create a viable
program for alternative fuels within TOV fleet.
6. Implement community energy efficiency and renewable energy program.
Goal #3 : Ecosystem health: Ensure that the natural environment, specifically air
and water quality, water quantity, land use and habitat are maintained to current
or improved levels of biological health.
Objectives:
1. Maintain Gore Creek watershed as a Gold Medal Fishery, while working to
maintain tributaries meet and /or exceed aquatic life standards set by the state
of Colorado.
2. Initiate Trees for Vail program as a forest restoration and Town of Vail
beautification project.
3. Promote water conservation practices in businesses, community and
municipality.
Goal #4 : Sustainable Economic and Social Development: Lead programmatic
efforts to promote sustainable and profitable business practices within TOV and
the Vail community. Support TOV employee wellness programs to help maintain .
a high quality of life.
Objectives:
1. Promote sustainable business practices within TOV through the Vail Valley
Partnership and Town of Vail Destination Preservation sustainable business
program.
2. Promote TOV overall employee wellness through strategic partnerships.
3. Work with the Special Events Committee (SEC) to require all events to reduce
waste, purchase sustainable and biodegradable products, and promote CO
Carbon Fund offsets.
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Goal #5 : Public Education and Communication: Increase public education and
awareness, communication and environmental stewardship in the TOV through
local and regional partnerships.
Objectives
1. Direct the TOV employee Environmental Focus Group in driving Town
sustainability practices through educational initiatives.
2. Develop TOV environmental sustainability public education campaign through
collaborative partnerships, including but not limited to the following
organizations: the Tri- County Partnership (Eagle, Garfield, Pitkin Counties)
and associated municipalities, Northwest Colorado Council of Governments
(NWCCOG), Colorado Association of Ski Towns, (CAST), and local non - profit
and educational organizations.
Goal #6 : Transportation: Reduce the environmental impact of transportation by
supporting efforts within the Eagle Valley to decrease total Vehicle Miles
Traveled (VMT) by commuters and guests by 20% by 2020.
Objectives
1. Increase Van and Carpool use within TOV employees and guests.
2. Establish collaborative partnerships for improved mass transit.
3. Increase bicycle use and alternative low impact modes of transportation.
III. ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL
The Town Council shall approve, approve with modifications, or deny Resolution
1, Series of 2009.
IV. NEXT STEPS
It is anticipated that the following steps would be taken immediately if Resolution
9, Series of 2008, were approved.
• The Town of Vail Environmental Team will finalize the 2009 Environmental
Department Work Plan to fulfill the action steps identified in the Vail
Environmental Strategic Plan
• The Town of Vail Environmental Team will work with Town of Vail
employees, the Environmental Sustainability Advisory Committee, Vail
Valley Partnership, Planning and Environmental Commission . and
community partners to continue work on key projects including:
o Green Building Codes
o Energy Efficiency upgrades to town facilities
o Curbside recycling and waste diversion programs
o Solar incentive program
o Destination Preservation (Vail /Eagle Valley sustainable business
program)
• The Town of Vail will join the Cities for Climate Protection Campaign
created by ICLEI -Local Governments for Sustainability.
• The Town of Vail Environmental Team will monitor and report annually on
progress.
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V. STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Vail Town Council approves Resolution 1, Series of
2009.
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RESOLUTION NO. 1
Series 2009
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE VAIL ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
STRATEGIC PLAN AND SETTING FORTH DETAILS IN REGARD THERETO
WHEREAS, the Town of Vail in the County of Eagle and State of Colorado is a
home rule municipal corporation duly organized and existing under the laws and of the
State of Colorado and the Town Charter; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Vail has determined through the community outreach
process of Vail 20/20, Focus on the Future, that environmental protection and
sustainability is a top priority and;
WHEREAS, the Town Council, Town of Vail Environmental Team, Vail
Sustainability Advisory Committee, and Planning and Environmental Commission has
provided input to and determined that the Vail Environmental Sustainability Strategic
Plan defines goals, objectives, and action steps to ensure the fulfillment of the Vail
Environmental Policy Statement: "The Town of Vail shall serve as a nationally
recognized leader in sustainability through a commitment to community partnerships and
balanced stewardship of human, financial and environmental resources in policy and
daily operations" and;
WHEREAS, the fulfillment of the Vail Environmental Policy Statement will require
resources, projects, and community partnerships to: reduce greenhouse gas emissions,
improve energy efficiency, reduce waste, reduce fuel and oil consumption, reduce
vehicle miles traveled by guests and employees, improve environmental education and
communication, and
WHEREAS, it is the intention of the Town of Vail Environmental Team and
collaborating entities to implement the Vail Environmental Sustainability Strategic Plan,
conduct baseline studies and monitor and track data where appropriate and;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF
VAIL, COLORADO:
SECTION 1. PURPOSE
The Town Council hereby adopts the "Vail Environmental Sustainability Strategic
Plan," dated January 6, 2009.
SECTION 2. FINDINGS
The Town Council hereby finds:
A. That the Vail Environmental Sustainability - Strategic Plan is
consistent with the community vision and the adopted policy
statement reflects the intentions of the Town of Vail to become a
leader in environmental sustainability.
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B. That the goals, objectives, and action steps identified in the Vail
Environmental Sustainability Strategic Plan promotes the long -term
health of the environment, businesses, residents and guests of the
Town of Vail, and are necessary in order to positively impact global
climate change, habitat, resource efficiency and human and
environmental health.
SECTION 3. EFFECTIVE DATE
This resolution shall be effective immediately upon adoption.
INTRODUCED, READ, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 6 day of January,
2009.
Richard D. Cleveland, Town Mayor
ATTEST:
Lorelei Donaldson, Town Clerk
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TOWN OF VAA L�7
Th V
Environmental Syst ainability Pla
Decembpr 2001 - DRAFT
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
As a tourism destination for outdoor activity, the The Three Spheres of Sustainability
Town of Vail relies heavily on the environment to
provide natural beauty and recreational Social- Environmental EnvironmenWEm omie
ErtArorarartW JUG Environmental
NA" R— StaaaNdW n.vr ne.ovu u.e � OPJ v
opportunities and thus, the state of the environment L.Wyac� may
geed NaOeal Reawrcea
greatly affects the Town's economy. It is essential """"°""° `°'"
to maintain and even improve the state of the
environment to ensure that the environment as a
resource is available to ,future generations. Vail's
reputation as a resort industry leader lends itself to
setting exceptional standards for environmental
stewardship. While environmental protection is
essential to the Town's vitality, an environmental
Economio-Social
program must also balance economic and social &j*— Eli.
A*pdflw M. 2W2 FarTroda
needs in order to achieve sustainability. b
. W ~ate
In 1998, the Town of Vail held the Vail Environmental Odyssey Search Conference, which served as
the basis for the 1998 Town of Vail Environmental Strategic Plan. The Town of Vail Department of
Community Development led a planning effort in 2006 and 2007 called Vail 20/20: Focus on the
Future. The resulting document was the Vail 20/20 Strategic Action Plan, which included goals,
strategies and actions for eight topical areas, including the environment. The Vail 20/20 Strategic
Action Plan, adopted in November 2007, and the Environmental Strategic Plan adopted by the Town
of Vail in 1998, serves as the foundation for the Town of Vail Environmental Sustainability Plan.
The purpose of the Town of Vail Environmental Sustainability Plan is to provide a framework for the
municipality, partners, business, full and part time residents, and guests to take action to fulfill the
environmental vision of the community, reducing the Town of Vail's impact on global climate change
and working toward a sustainable future. The Town of Vail's Environmental Team will effectively
manage the environmental sustainability program outlined in this plan with cooperation among
stakeholders and sustain the path to implementation, resulting in measurable success. The Plan sets
measurable goals, and provides actions to achieve those goals.
The plan is broken into the following six goal areas that will help achieve the environmental
sustainability vision of the Town of Vail and reduce our collective carbon footprint:
Goal #1: Solid Waste Stream Reduction and Recycling: Reduce the amount of TOV landfill
contributions by 10% within 5 years, and 25% within 10 years.
Goal #2: Energy Efficiency: Reduce the TOV municipal and community energy use by 20%
below 2006 levels by 2020, in order to effectively reduce the Town's contribution to
greenhouse gas emissions and impact on global climate change.
Goal #3: Ecosystem health: Ensure that the natural environment, specifically air and water
quality, water quantity, land use and habitat are maintained to current or improved levels of
biological health.
2
Goal #4 : Sustainable Economic and Social Development: Lead programmatic efforts to
promote sustainable and profitable business practices within TOV and the Vail community.
Implement TOV employee sustainability programs to maintain high quality of life.
Goal #5: Public Education and Communication: Increase public education and awareness,
communication and environmental stewardship in the TOV.
Goal #6 : Transportation: Reduce the environmental impact of transportation by supporting
efforts within the Eagle Valley to decrease total Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) by commuters
and guests by 20% by 2020.
Using the guiding principles of the plan, each goal is broken down into actions and steps to achieve
such goals. There are environmental indicators noted that, once analyzed, can help track success in
implementation of the plan. The implementation plan identifies necessary resources, how to obtain
those resources, and a timeline for completing actions. The plan provides detailed actions for the next
two years, with a more general concept of actions for the next five years, but is designed to be revisited
and revised as action steps are completed or new environmental issues arise in the community.
This Plan defines a comprehensive environmental sustainability strategy that consists of goals,
objectives, and actions that will help the Town coordinate efforts to achieve the environmental vision
of the community. It is essential to protect the environment in Vail not only because of the obligation
to help mitigate climate change and preserve our natural resources, but also because of the major role
the environment plays in the economy, serving as the source of recreation and tourism. As a local
government, Town of Vail intends to serve as a model community for environmental health and
sustainability by taking action to reduce carbon emissions and improve the state of the greater
environment.
3
CONTRIBUTORS
Vail Town Council
Richard D. Cleveland, Mayor
Andy Daly, Mayor Pro -tem
Mark Gordon
Kim Newberry
Farrow Hitt
Margaret Rogers
Kevin Foley
Planning and Environmental Commission
Rollie Kjesbo
David Viele
Sarah Paladino
Scott Proper
Susie Tjossem
Bill Pierce
Michael Kurz
Administration Department
Stan Zemler, Vail Town Manager
Pam Brandmeyer, Assistant Town Manager
Matt Mire, Town Attorney
Judy Camp, Director of Finance
Kathleen Halloran, Budget Analyst
Department of Community Development
George Ruther, Director
Bill Carlson, Environmental Health and Planning
Kristen Bertuglia, Environmental Sustainability Coordinator
Warren Campbell, Chief of Planning
Nina Timm, Housing Coordinator
Sean Koenig, GIS Specialist
Stan Hahn, Electrical Inspector -
Bill Gibson, Town Planner
Nicole Peterson, Town Planner
Rachel Friede, Town Planner
Department of Public Works
Greg Hall, Director
Tom Kassmel, Town Engineer
Vail Environmental Sustainability Advisory Committee
Caroline Byus, Water Quality and Regulations Division Manager, ERWSD
Sarah Fleury, Water Conservation Officer, ERWSD
Anne Esson, Eagle River Watershed Council
Luke Cartin, Environmental Manager, Vail Resorts
Markian Feduschak, Executive Director, Gore Range Natural Science School
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Jim Lamont, Vail Homeowner's Association Director
Rob Levine, Antlers Lodge
Kevin Hochtl, Sporting (cross country skiing/fly fishing/mountain biking/hiking)
Chris Romer, Marketing Director, Vail Valley Partnership
Matt Scherr, Executive Director, Eagle Valley Alliance for Sustainability
Consulting members:
Adam Palmer, Eagle County
Mark Gordon, Vail Town Council
Brian Nolan Blue Moose Chophouse
> P
I
Town of Vail Employee Environmental Focus Group
Bill Carlson
Kristen Bertuglia
Todd Scholl
Susie Hervert
Jim Hervert
Greg Hall
Ryan Sutter
Greta Blamire
Melvin Valdez
Diane Stanek
Jamie Gunion
Gregg Barrie
Stan Zemler
5
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. INTRODUCTION
II. PURPOSE
III. GUIDING PRINCIPLES
IV. PLANNING BACKGROUND
A. EXISTING ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING DOCUMENTS
B. TOWN OF VAIL VALUES
V. POLICY STATEMENT
VI. GOAL 1: SOLID WASTE STREAM REDUCTION AND RECYCLING
VII. GOAL 2: THE CLIMATE CHALLENGE: ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND GREEN BUILDING
VIII. GOAL 3: ECOSYSTEM PROTECTION
IX. GOAL 4: ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL SUSTAINABILITY
X. GOAL 5: PUBLIC EDUCATION AND COMMUNICATION
XI. GOAL 6: TRANSPORTATION
XII. IMPLEMENTATION MATRIX
XIII. FUNDING
XIV. REPORTING
XV. ESSENTIAL NEXT STEPS
6
I. INTRODUCTION
The Town of Vail contains 3,360 acres of land in a land mass approximately 10 miles long and at most
I mile wide surrounded by the White River National Forest. The Town itself is at 8,150 feet in
elevation, while the peak of Vail Mountain is 11,450 feet. Of the 3,360 acres of land, almost 500 acres
are occupied by I -70 and the Frontage Roads. Almost 1000 acres are designated open space, with the
remaining approximately 1860 acres for residential and commercial uses. Gore Creek is the only
major water body within the Town boundary, and it runs through the entire length of the Town and
runs into the Eagle River just west of Vail in Dowd Junction. There are almost 1200 acres of vacant
land within the Town, but about 1000 acres of that vacant land is owned by the Town of Vail and has
some preservation zoning designation. There are approximately 6,412 dwelling units in the entire
Town. 9 percent or 624 units are deed - restricted employee housing units. A total of 1,520 households
in Vail are occupied with residents working in Vail (Development Statistics, 2007).
Population directly affects the amount of resources used in order to sustain the Town's needs. One
important issue to recognize is the rapidly changing demographic profile of residents within the Town
of Vail. This trend was made clear in 2000 by the U.S. Census results, and has accelerated since then.
Vail's current year -round population is approximately 4,800 residents. The Town has about 6,400 total
housing units. The Town's permanent population occupies about 2,300 housing units (37 percent of all
units) with the remaining units vacant part of the year (about 63 percent); these are typically occupied
by part-time (seasonal) residents. Vail is a Town with relatively small households (2.09 persons
compared to the Eagle County average of 2.73), which are unlikely to contain children. Only 13
percent of Vail households have one or more persons under, 18, compared to 35 percent for the County
as a whole, and 46 percent in Eagle. The data suggest that many of Vail's former resident families as
well as large segments of the local work force are now living west of Vail and commuting to work in
Vail. About 21 percent of Vail's population was over the age of 50 in 2000 compared to 15 percent for
Eagle County. Recent estimates of population growth provided by the State of Colorado anticipate
growth in Eagle County from about 50,000 residents in 2005 to almost 90,000 residents in 2030.
Growth in the three - County region that includes Eagle, Pitkin and Garfield counties is projected to
grow from 115,000 in 2005 to 246,000 in 2030. Vail, is relatively well educated (61 percent have
Bachelor's or higher; degrees compared to the County average of 43 percent). Vail has lower median
household incomes than the, County ($56,680 in 2000 compared to $62,682 for the County) (Vail
20/20,2007).
The Town is currently undergoing major redevelopment with Vail's Billion Dollar Renewal that
includes both public and private projects throughout Vail Village and Lionshead. Land use within the
Town is largely guided by the Town of Vail Comprehensive Plan, which comprises a number of
adopted documents, some of which were adopted as long ago as 1979, and all of which designate
legislated and preferred land use within the Town. The Vail Land Use Plan, which is part of the
Comprehensive Plan, was adopted in 1986 and is intended to serve as a basis from which future land
use decisions may be made within the Town of Vail. Within the plan, general types of land uses are
defined which are then used to develop the Vail Land Use Map. The Land Use Plan was not intended
to be regulatory in nature, but was intended to provide a general framework to guide decision - making.
Land use is legally controlled by the Zoning Regulations, or Title 12 of the Vail Town Code.
It is essential to connect land use decisions with carrying capacity of utilities and municipal services.
Carrying capacity is the maximum number of people who can use a site without an unacceptable
alteration in the physical environment, an unacceptable decline in the quality of experience gained by
visitors, and an unacceptable adverse impact on the society, economy, and culture of the tourism area
7
(Mathieson, Alister, and Geoffrey and Wall, 1982). In 1998, the Town of Vail conducted a Carrying
Capacity Study that identifies ecological, physical, facility and social carrying capacity. While the
study may lend itself to addressing current carrying capacity, the 10- year -old document needs to be
revisited to fully understand the current situation as compared to the carrying capacity.
The changing demographics and increases in development have led to increased traffic in Vail. The
current level of service (LOS) that has been deemed acceptable is a LOS "C ". LOS is a measure of
effectiveness by which traffic engineers determine the quality of service related to transportation
infrastructure with A considered the best, F, the worst. A "C" rating has slightly more congestion than
an A or a B, yet most experienced drivers are comfortable, roads remain safely below but efficiently
close to capacity, and posted speed is maintained. However, projections in the Transportation Master
Plan, most recently updated in 2007, shows that future development will trigger lower levels of
service. In order to meet service standards, and control traffic issues within the Town, it is essential to
provide road improvements while also providing additional alternative transportation options. The
Town of Vail has provided alternative transit in the form of a free municipal bus system, an extensive
paved pathway system, and hiking and biking trails for recreational movement. These alternatives,
along with paid parking in the winter season, have curbed automobile usage and have extended the
ability of the current road system to provide adequate service.
As the number of vehicles traveling along I -70 through Vail increases, interstate noise pollution
continues to increase. To address the issue, the Town has built sand storage berms in East Vail that act
as noise barriers. The Town continues to monitor noise levels and the Colorado Department of
Transportation resurfaced I -70 from East Vail to West Vail with noise - reducing pavement in 2008.
According to the Eagle River Water and Sanitation District in 2006, water rights are also of concern
when it comes to increasing density and population. The District confirms they have enough water
rights to carry the demand of projected build -out scenarios. The primary source of domestic water in
Vail is municipal wells, supplemented by surface water sources on Gore Creek and the Eagle River.
Water diversion infrastructure and treatment facilities currently have excess capacity to serve demands
in Vail. Additional capacity to divert and treat water is planned and will be implemented as demand
for water increases. Vail's wastewater effluent is treated at the Vail and Avon Wastewater Treatment
Plants. Excess capacity for treatment is currently available at both of these facilities. Additional
capacity is planned and will be implemented as demand for treatment increases. Water and sewer
main capacity in Vail has been studied and in general is adequate for current use and project build -out
of current zoning within the Vail service area. A replacement and upgrade program is in place to
address capacity issues and improve system efficiency. Replacement and upgrade programs target
sources of groundwater that limit existing sewer collection system capacity. Water main replacement
targets areas where inferior construction inhibits the reliability of water delivery. Upgrades required to
meet increased demand from development is planned as specific development projects are approved.
Like many resort mountain communities, the Town of Vail faces several unique environmental
challenges due to the sensitivity and value of the natural environment, and the strain that the excess
energy, waste and population swings that the area endures during peak ski season. Key environmental
challenges include:
• The implications of global climate change and Vail's contribution via snowmelt systems,
excess heating loads from lodges, required snow removal equipment and excess fuel
consumption.
8
• Construction and redevelopment impacts
• I -70 Highway road sanding pollution
• Waste
• Pine Beetle infestation and wildlife protection.
• Limited capacity and growing population.
• Limited affordable housing.
• Perception that sustainable practices are expensive and non - essential; economic instability and
resistance to change.
II. PURPOSE OF THE PLAN
The purpose of this plan is to define a comprehensive environmental sustainability strategic plan that
consists of goals, objectives, and actions that will help the Town coordinate efforts to achieve the
environmental vision of the community. It is essential to protect the environment in Vail not only
because of the obligation to help mitigate climate change and preserve our natural resources, but also
because of the major role the environment plays in the economy, serving as the source of recreation
and tourism. As a local government, Town of Vail intends to serve as a model community for
environmental health and sustainability by taking action to reduce carbon emissions and improve the
state of the greater environment.
Vail and other ski resort communities are dependent on a healthy environment for recreational
amenities that influence development, tourism, and economic viability. The complexity of Vail's
ecosystem affects the sustainability of the natural environment and the community at large (Vail 20/20,
2007). Sustainability is generally defined as the ability of the present generation to meet its own needs
without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs (Report of the World
Commission, 1987).
This plan defines the proposed path for environmental sustainability for the next five years. The plan
is structured to present an overview of 1) background information/key issues related to each
environmental metric, 2) TOV current initiatives or projects to address each environmental issue, 3)
baseline data (presented when available) 4) environmental sustainability goal 5) objectives identified to
fulfill each goal, 6) action items 7) environmental indicators /performance measures. The
Environmental Sustainability Strategic Plan Matrix defines priorities actions and an estimated
timeframe for implementation.
III. GUIDING PRINCIPLES OF THE PLAN
The Guiding principles for the Environmental Strategic Plan are overarching statements that reflect the
fundamental values which are the foundation of the plan.
1. Creating Partnerships and Fostering Cooperation Involving all stakeholders will ensure
coordination of program actions and implementation.
2. Building Awareness and Encouraging Community Participation The community is
also an essential stakeholder and community participation and sharing information
fosters support from the public and a sense of place.
3. Planning Proactively It is imperative to look ahead and plan for the known and the
unknown factors in the future.
4. Achieving Balance Finding a common ground between economy, society and the
9
environment is critical to successful planning and actions.
5. Promoting Openness and Accessibility Sharing information and providing access to
Town resources is fundamental to an open society.
6. Behaving Responsibly and Accountably Being accountable for one's actions and
taking responsibility will ensure that all parties are acting in the best interest of the
environment.
7. Advocating Actions Beneficial to the Environment Convincing stakeholders to take
action that will benefit the environment will allow for successful implementation of the
plan.
8. Thinking Globally Locally ocally We can make an impact on global climate change
by doing our share in the local community.
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IV. PLANNING BACKGROUND
In 2006, the Town of Vail made a commitment to develop a Community Plan called Vail 20/20 Focus
on the Future as a way to build upon Vail's successes, keep the resort community competitive and to
seek opportunities to improve the community through a strategic plan. The adopted goals for the Vail
20/20 process were to create a plan that identified commonly shared values in the community, create a
clear vision for Vail, integrate a plan to coordinate Vail's strategies for the future, and create a plan
that transcends the administrations of Town staff, Vail Town Council and appointed boards and
commissions (Memo to Vail Town Council, 2006).
The public input process for Vail 20/20 included two public workshops, a meeting with Vail's
stakeholders, a workshop with Vail Mountain School students, and an open house to respond to a first
draft of the Strategic Action Plan. Environmental sustainability, workforce housing, I -70 mitigation,
wildfire preparedness and management of growth and redevelopment were identified during these
meetings as top priorities for the Town. More than 300 voices were heard to assist in setting a
direction for the future. At the same time, the 2007 community survey results were published, and
both initiatives showed tremendous support for environmental initiatives.
Through the 20/20 process, the community identified environmental issues as one of its top concerns
and expressed the need for a more sustainable community. Participants commented that an ongoing
dialogue about the surrounding forest health between the Forest Service and the Town is an
environmental strength. Participants expressed interest in developing more recycling opportunities,
reducing the reliance on chemicals to handle maintenance issues such as snowrn lt, ongoing work to
address the mountain pine beetle outbreak and related fire hazard and protection of Gore Creek. Other
recommendations included adopting a green building code (Vail 20/20, 2007).
In the 2007 community survey, environmental resources are identified by 82 percent of respondents as
very important with only 6 percent calling this issue unimportant. Respondents were asked to evaluate
a list of 10 topics important to Vail's future. In this case, "environmental protection" received the
highest score with a rating of 4.3 on a 5 scale (5 being "extremely important "), followed by
"addressing the pine beetle infestation" which received a 4.1 score. 71 percent of respondents
suggested the Town place a high priority on "enforcement of requirements for private property owners
to remove dead beetle- infested trees." Satisfaction of environmental quality, which links both the
natural and built environment within the Town, was ranked 3.8 of 5, which is just above average
satisfaction (Town of Vail Community Survey, 2007).
After approving the final Vail 20/20 Plan, the Town Council directed staff to develop an
Environmental Strategic Plan that includes environmental goals and actions which will be supported
by the municipality, and also by individuals, families, institutions, and businesses. The Council
encouraged Staff to promote sustaining a healthy environment in Vail and beyond. The majority of the
environmental recommendations and goals are directed to the Town because it is here where the broad
range of environmental actions at the local level can be focused, promoted and coordinated best.
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A. EXISTING ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING DOCUMENTS
The following documents were created to guide environmental policy and actions:
Comprehensive Open Lands Plan Adopted in 1994, the Comprehensive Open Lands Plan identifies
and develops strategies for acquiring or protecting remaining open lands in Vail that would be valuable
for recreation, protecting sensitive environmental resources, extending or connecting trails, providing
adequate neighborhood open space and creating a small amount of contingency land for unseen needs.
This plan expired in 2000.
Environmental Strategic Plan (1994) Adopted in 1994, the Environmental Strategic Plan
established a long -term environmental protection work plan. The plan expired in 1998.
Eagle River Water Ouality Management Plan Adopted in 1996, this document is still relevant and
is used by stewards of the watershed to understand the current situation, the initiatives taken and future
actions needed to protect the region's aquatic health.
Community Wildfire Protection Plan The purpose of the Community Wildfire Protection Plan
(CWPP) is to implement a seamless, coordinated effort in determining an appropriate fire management
work plan within the Town, complementing local agreements for wildfire protection. Adopted in 2007,
the CWPP is still being utilized to guide forest health projects.
Vail Energy Audit /Action Plan The Energy Audit identified the baseline energy usage by the
municipality, and categorized sources of energy use. The audit made recommendations to improve
energy efficiency and conservation, many of which are in this document.
Vail 20/20 Vail 20/20, Focus on the Future was designed to keep the resort community competitive,
and to create a plan that identified commonly shared values in the community, created a clear vision
for Vail and coordinated Vail's strategies for the future.
I
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B. TOWN OF VAIL VALUES
The Town of Vail Values were adopted by the Vail Town Council as part of the Vail 20/20 Strategic
Action Plan (2007) and represent what is important to the community and our partners.
I . Premier Resort Community: Vail values its role as a premier resort community, which
recognized the interdependent relationship between the resort, community and municipality. Vail's
success as a resort depends largely on it success as a community which fosters relationships
between locals and visitors. We make plans and take actions that are investments in the experience
and lives of many different generations, today and into the future. It takes work and reinvention to
stay No. 1, and Vail is committed to innovation and creativity to achieve our goals.
2. Diversity: Vail values maintaining a diverse population of residents, workers and visitors, with a
broad representation of age, family composition, ethnic background and economic means.
3. Activities Benefit Individuals and the Community: Vail values a vibrant community life
supportive of spiritual and physical well -being and encouraging of intellectual and cultural growth.
This value includes providing a wide variety of educational, recreational, entertainment, art and
cultural opportunities. These offerings are accessible to all and appeal to residents and guests of all
ages, incomes and interests. These activities promote the development of relationships that
strengthen the community.
4. Natural Environment: Vail values the environment as a source of health, beauty, recreation and
economic strength that makes Vail a special place to live, work and play. As stewards of the
environment, Vail is committed to promoting sustainable environmental practices in every aspect
of the community.
5. Participation and Cooperation: Vail values building partnerships by working towards solutions
to environmental challenges through open communication and cooperation between community
members, businesses, interest groups and local and regional governments. Cooperation is essential
to addressing issues that extend beyond Town boundaries.
6. Leadership: Vail will be open and transparent in our planning, decision - making and
implementation of the ESP.
7. Health Economy: Vail values world -class service and a vibrant, diverse, year -round economy that
caters to full and part -time residents, visitors and business owners and operators. A growing
employment and revenue base supports the economy, which thrives on environmental
sustainability, amenities and events, transportation and other infrastructure.
8. Sense
'of Place and Character: Vail values the strong history of the Town and its unique
character' and legacy while acknowledging the importance of reinvention. This is reflected in the
high quality of the built environment with design and features that endure over time.
9. Safety and Health: Vail values a sense of personal security for its citizens and their children, as
well as for property: Quality healthcare and physical activities support the health of the
community.
10. Transportation and Transit Network: Vail values a sustainable, multi - modal transportation
system that effectively provides ease of access to residents, visitors and the workforce in an
environmentally and technologically forward manner.
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V. POLICY STATEMENT
"The Town of Vail shall serve as a nationally recognized leader in sustainability through a
commitment to community partnerships and balanced stewardship of human, financial and
environmental resources in policy and daily operations. "
VI. SOLID WASTE STREAM REDUCTION AND RECYCLING
Background/Key Issues:
Not worded very well. Waste management is a major issue within the Town and throughout the region.
According to Eagle County (2008), the Eagle County Landfill is a Colorado State- approved Subtitle D
solid waste disposal facility. Of the 61 acres approved for development, 31 are in use. This site will
reach capacity in 14 to 17 years, depending on waste levels. However, future expansion could increase
the capacity of the landfill. Recycling is free in Vail and is managed by the Town through a contract
with a local trash hauler. Vail residents may drop off their recyclables behind the Community
Development Department building.
Current Initiatives:
• The Town continues to manage the free recycling drop -off program in Vail.
• A cardboard recycling system was installed and is operational as of September 2008.
• The Town's Environmental Health Office is working with Eagle County on a county -wide
comprehensive recycling program which will include a $5 million recycling transfer facility at the
Wolcott landfill, increasing the Valley's recycling capacity by 2 -4 times and greatly improving the
economics of local recycling.
• The Town sponsored its first -ever electronic recycling event in 2007 collecting over 8000 lbs of
electronic waste. TOV electronic recycling will continue until the Eagle County MRF is able to
accept electronic waste.
• The Town requires special events to incorporate recycling in their event planning.
Baseline:
According to Eagle County Landfill data, Eagle County generated 115,489 tons of solid waste in 2007.
Of this, compacted waste (trash) accounted for 49,679 tons, and construction and demolition waste
accounted for 50,701 tons. The last data point for solid waste generation for the Town of Vail was
1995,. where it accounted for 31,025 tons of trash, equating to 37% of Eagle County's waste. Current
baseline data are needed to quantify the effectiveness of waste diversion efforts.
Goal #1: Reduce the amount of TOV municipal and community landfill contributions by 10%
within 5 years, and 25% within 10 years..
Objectives:
1. Create a culture of waste reduction and resource efficiency by delivering a clear and consistent
message of resource efficiency through community messages and guest experiences.
2. Develop education program(s) to increase waste reduction, reuse, and recycling program
participation rates of TOV employees and the Vail community.
3. Implement a'Pay as you Throw' (PAYT) curbside waste pickup and recycling program in TOV.
4. Promote and eventually require recycling of construction waste and building material.
5. Hold annual waste diversion events within TOV.
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6. Collaborate with Garfield, Pitkin and Eagle Counties on the regional solid waste diversion program
that streamlines recycling and waste reduction.
Action Items:
1.1 Track solid waste and recycling levels in TOV through partnerships with waste haulers.
1.2 Identify participation rates of 1) Community Development Department 2) Other TOV department
employees 3) Public 4) Commercial in public drop -off recycling program.
1.3 Contract with PAYT consultant to: conduct feasibility study for PAYT, develop Steering
Committee, obtain public comment and obtain feedback and buy -in from valley waste haulers for
system configuration, planning and rate structure; hold community information session.
1.4 Investigate complementary programs such as composting (curb /drop off).
1.5 Develop Town ordinance requiring residential and commercial curbside, recycling.
1.7 Create recycling committee from Town departments, community and other stakeholders.
2.1 Develop a commercial cardboard recycling collection program for Vail businesses.
2.2 Promote and support Vail grocery tote bag program in partnership with the Colorado Association
of Ski Towns (CAST) to reduce plastic bag disposal.
3.1 Develop a waste hauling and recycling information brochure.
3.2 Determine implementation steps and enforcement mechanism.
3.3 Conduct pilot test and phase in with customer education
3.4 Monitor and refine program 6 months after implementation.
4.1 Develop Town policy to ensure that all building permits will require a waste management plan that
identifies sources of waste and methods to reduce, reuse and recycle.
4.2 Partner with RECON and Habitat for Humanity for TOV deconstruction materials delivery.
4.3 Promote construction and building contractor waste reduction and recycling education in the TOV.
5.1 Work with the Eagle Valley. Alliance for Sustainability and other local partners to host recycling
events for hazardous materials, electronic waste, and promotion of waste reduction.
6.1 Form a Tri- County Partnership with Eagle, Garfield, and Pitkin Counties.
6.2 Develop and complete a waste characterization study; pursue U.S. Department of Agriculture Solid
Waste Management grant to fund the project.
6.3 Lead a tri- county community'survey to identify attitudes and practices related to waste diversion
and recycling.
Performance Measures/Environmental Indicators
• Solid Waste Landfill Volumes
• Recycled Materials Volumes
• Cardboard and co- mingled recycling hauls and volumes
• Number of businesses, community members and employees who participate in recycling
programs
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VII. THE CLIMATE CHALLENGE: ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND GREEN BUILDING
Background/Key Issues:
According to the Southern Rockies Ecosystem Project (2007), the earth's surface has undergone
unprecedented warming over the last century, particularly over the last two decades. The future
climate of the Rockies will likely be dominated by human- induced warming under "business as usual"
carbon emissions, so accurately characterizing the regional response is vital to the Rockies' future
sustainability. According to Vail Resorts (2007), the snow season on Vail Mountain is approximately
15 days shorter than what it was 25 years ago. In 2008, the Town will complete a streetscape project
that includes heated pavers in Vail Village and Lionshead in the pedestrian core areas. These pavers
make it safer for pedestrians to walk in the winter and remove the need for snow removal trucks and
plows in the village cores. However, according to the Streetscape Master Plan(2005), an additional
1,357 tons of greenhouse gases are emitted into the atmosphere each winter season from melting snow.
To offset this energy use, the Town has offset 100% of its electrical use with wind energy credits.
Also, funds from the Town's Real Estate Transfer Tax (RETT) have been designated for use on
renewable energy projects. In 2008, the Town hired a consultant to conduct the Town of Vail
Municipal Energy Audit. The audit suggested how to reduce municipal energy use over the next few
years. However, there is little effort to coordinate the energy use of the general public. Energy use is
directly related to emissions of greenhouse gases, from the harvesting, production, and end use of the
energy source.
As stated in the previous goal section, Eagle River Water and Sanitation District projects that with
current build -out, there is adequate water in the water well system to support a growing population.
However, this does not preclude the community from conserving water in order to protect this precious
natural resource. This is essential considering that the City of Denver owns water rights that supersede
the rights of the local water district.
Current Initiatives:
• In 2007, the Town installed 4.53 KW photovoltaic solar panels on the Vail Village Information
Center as a pilot project for solar on municipal buildings.
• The Town purchased wind power credits for 100 percent of municipal power to offset carbon
emissions from electricity use. This contract is renewable in 2009.
• The Town hired a consultant in 2007 to create a municipal energy plan, which created a baseline of
2006 data to quantify energy use, provide recommendations for aggressively reducing energy use
from all sources and track potential financial savings through efficiencies that can be reinvested
into the local community. This consultant has also conducted a Green Building Code Feasibility
Study for creation of green building policy /standards in Vail.
• The Department of Community Development office building has been retrofitted with energy
efficient lighting, timers, and motion sensors.
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Baseline
The 2007 Town of Vail Energy Action Plan includes a municipal energy inventory use for 2006 which
will serve as the baseline against which TOV will measure the success of Goal 2, in reducing the
Town's energy consumption and contribution to global warming pollution. The intent of this inventory
line from which to measure progress in reducing global warming was to create a base o p g g g g ollution. Several p
municipal buildings present opportunities for inexpensive lighting and heating and cooling upgrades to
achieve significant energy savings, notably the Lionshead Parking Structure and Vail Transportation
Center, as well as the Municipal Building (Table 1).
i • Annual Energy Annual tons a
Expenditure E CO2 emissions
Buzzard Park Housing 73,440 11,500 - $ 15,175 118.53
Colorado West Mental Health 255 $ 599 0.04
Corn Dev Building 85,560 6,552 66 $ 12,653 103.61
Creekside 120,181 - $ 11,233 99.15
Donavan Park Pavillion 50,600 16,449 2,515 $ 30,670 125.02
East Vail Fire Station 4 85,252 5,303 407 $ 11,486 97.12
EMD Boiler Room - Snowmelt - 286,710 - $ 251,357 1,444.59
Ford Am itheater 68,281 3,489 $ 20,12 56.89
Libra 388,000 20,260 399 $ 43,842 422.24
Lionshead Parkin Structure 673,990 5,471 - $ 53,563 583.61
Municipal Building 782,040 16,270 271 $ 61,992 727.20
Public Works Administration 633,152 78,400 1 $ 106,968 2,390.16
Town Mana ees Residence 10,780 1,858 109 $ 2,056 9.38
Vail Fire Station 79,407 5,492 272 $ 12,098 93.23
Vail Transportation Center 2,596,800 - 1,547 $ 157,530 2,14161
Mist. Housing 21,571 $ 2,068 17.80
Total Buildings 6,669,054 464,265 10,398 $ 794,091 8,431.17
% of previous year n/a n/a n/a
Miscellaneous 485,753 169 4,034 $ 56,121 401.66
Misc. - lrri ation 6,804 - 150 $ 1,583 5.62
Misc. - Street / Path Lights 644,956 $ 60,114 532.09
Total Public Works 1,137,613 169 4,184 $ 117,818 939.4
%. of previous year n/a n/a j n/a n/a n/a
Sub Total 6 1 ,806,567 454,434 $ 911 10,309.9
of lii' s ear 0 n/a I n/a n/a n/a 0 n/a
Gasoline Diesel i
(gallons) ..
Transportation 51,272 1 177,848 1 $ 6M,701 1 2,492.3
°!o of previous year n/a n/a n/a I n/a n/a
1 ANNUAL TOTALS $ 1,442,610 11,862.9
Table 1. Total Global Warming Pollution and Cost of Energy. Adapted from: TOV Energy Action
Plan, 2007.
17
Town of Vail 2006
Global Warming Pollution
by Sector Figure 1.2006 Total Global Warming Pollution by
Transportation Sector. Adapted from: Town of Vail Energy
2,492 tons of cot Action Plan, 2007.
21% Buildings
8,481 tons of CO2
71%
Miscellaneous,
Irrigation & Street
Lights
939 tons of CO2
8%
Electricity Natural Gas Water
Annual Energy annual sq EPA
2006
Expenditure tons of Year Benchmark
GG2 Scon
Buzzard Park Housing 73,440 11,500 - i 15,175 118.53 103,746 39%
Colorado West Mental Health - - 255 6 599 0.04 WA
Com Bev Buildin 85,560 6,552 66 $ 12,653 103.61 135 16%
Creekside 120,181 - - $ 11 99.15 WA
Donavan Park Pavillion 50,600 16,449 2,515 $ 30,670 125.02 302 92%
East Vail Fire Station 1 85,252 5,303 407 6 11,486 97.12 114 52%
EMD Boller Room - Snowmeh - 286,710 - $ 251,357 1,444.59
m WA
Ford A itheater 68,281 9,489 S 20 802 56.89 WA
Libra 388,000 20= 999 $ 43,842 422.24 192 WA
Lionshead Parkin Structure
Municipal Building 5,471 - >i 782,040 16,270 271 $ 61 53 727.20 375 583.61 WA WA
Public Works Administration 633,152 78AN 1,08 $ 106,968 2,390.16 1 WA
Town Mana ees Residence 10,780 1 109 $ 2 9.38 71 40%
Vail Fire Station 79,407 5,492 M $ 12,098 93.23 109 352 60%
Vail Tra ortation Center 2,596,800 - 1,547 $ 157,530 2142.61 WA
Misr. Housing 21571 6 2.068 1 17.80 WA
Total Buildings 5,669,064 454 10,398 $ 794.0911 8A31.1T I Avers e
% of previous year n/a n/a n/a 337,696
Table 2.2006 Annual Energy /Global Warming Pollution and Cost of Energy per Building, with
Benchmark Score'. Note: In the Town of Vail, all buildings use more energy than the national average
and are therefore less energy efficient. It should be noted that most buildings because of configuration,
shared utility accounts or other reasons could not be formally benchmarked. These have N/A where the
score would be. The Town of Vail's buildings' benchmark scores are somewhat typical and more
reflect the buildings age than any other factor
18
Though TOV will focus efforts on reducing overall carbon emissions, it is also helpful to evaluate
energy and/or carbon intensity so that incremental progress is easier to identify. It is likely that as
services increase and /or buildings are added or expanded, so will energy use. In order to gauge energy
intensity, metrics, or useful comparisons must be identified. The following may be useful to track
carbon intensity (Schmueser- Gordon - Meyer, 2007).
A possible metric includes comparing total tons of CO2 to:
• Total Town operating expenditures* (useful for comparing to other municipalities)
11,863 tons of CO2 per $1,000 of expenditure = 0.27 tons in 2006
In other words, for every $1,000 the Town spends, it emits 0.27 tons of CO2.
Another possible metric includes comparing dollars spent on energy to:
• Total Town operating expenditures* on electricity, natural gas & water (useful for comparing
to other municipalities)
$1,442,610 per $1,000 of expenditure = $32.94 in 2006
In other words, for every $1,000 the Town spends, it spent $32.94 on energy and water.
*2006 total Town of Vail expenditures = $43,800, 000
19
Town of Vail:
2006 Combined Gasoline & Diesel Use by Department
CON DEV • 70 TOWN MANAGER • 80 FINANCE -85
LANDSCAPE -00 1% 0% 1%
1%
TRC - 50 TOWN ATTORNEY .90
1x a%
Figure 2.2006 Total Fuel Use by Department.
FIRE DEPT -40 ECAD VEHICLES -100
3% 2%
FACILITYMTN -35
4%
POLICE DEPT -30
B%
BUS DEPT -10
PUBLIC WORKS .20 59%
20%
Plan Review Process Baseline
According to the Four Seasons project development team, printing costs for current major development
projects in the Town of Vail are estimated at $14,000 per set of plans, containing several thousand
sheets of paper. Most large scale projects print multiple sets, and can total over $90,000, not including
time and energy spent driving to and from the Town of Vail Community Development Department
offices, and shipping costs. Converting to electronic plan review would reduce waste, and greatly
increase energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions by decreasing driving and shipping of plans.
Electronic plan review will also streamline the plan review process, increasing customer satisfaction.
Fire and police operations will have instant access to building plans for emergency incidences.
Goal #2: Reduce the TOV municipal and community energy use by 20% below 2006 levels by
2020, in order to effectively reduce the Town's contribution to greenhouse gas emissions and
impact on global climate change.
Objectives:
1. Track and reduce TOV municipal and community energy use and GHG emissions.
2. Implement Green Building Code Program that requires new construction and major renovations to
achieve designated resource and energy efficiency targets.
3. Implement energy efficiency and conservation measures for municipal facilities.
4. Increase fuel efficiency, reduce fuel and oil consumption and create a viable program for alternative
fuels within TOV fleet.
5. Implement community energy efficiency and renewable energy program.
Action Items:
1.1 Track TOV municipal energy use using Energy Tracker software
1.2 Conduct community -wide GHG emissions inventory to establish baseline.
1.3 Join ICLEI's Local Governments for Sustainability Cities for Climate Protection Campaign,
committing to reducing GHG emissions and achieving the "5 milestones' identified in the agreement.
2.1 Implement a high performance building code or program for all new development and TOV
facilities (e.g.
LEED for New Construction, Green Built Colorado, or similar program).
2.2 Develop and adopt energy and resource - efficient building standards for all existing TOV facilities.
20
2.2.1 Require all Town - funded remodel projects to exceed the International Energy Conservation
Code by at least 15% on retrofits.
2.2.2 Require Energy Star or better products when available for all new equipment.
2.2.3 Utilize strategic tree planting to reduce cooling loads of buildings.
2.2.4 Create a high performance operations and preventative maintenance manual for facility
managers.
2.2.5 Replace outdated HVAC systems and other outdated equipment (e.g. computer monitors,
outdating plumbing fixtures, lighting, boilers, fans, pumps, belts, controls).
2.3 Evaluate the energy and global warming pollution trade -off of new facilities.
2.4 Educate the public on the adopted green building program and provide services at the Department
of Community Development to provide information.
3.1 Work with TOV Facilities Team to instill a culture of conservation.
3.2 Contract for an `investment- grade' audit for all facilities that perform 20% or more below the
national average, as identified in Table 2.
3.3 Obtain a performance contract for appropriate municipal buildings through an energy service
contractor.
3.4 Educate Town staff and the community on global warming impacts.
3.5 Conduct feasibility study of a biomass heat and power plant in TOV using beetle killed trees, waste
wood and landfill waste.
3.6 Research additional alternative energy options, such as solar, micro- hydro, geothermal, and wind
power generated for municipal facilities.
3.7 Require life cycle cost analysis for all major equipment purchases and replacement.
4.1 Research alternative fuel options for Town transit/fleet operations. Obtain additional fuel tank for
alternative fuel.
4.2 Work with Public Works Department Staff to develop fuel efficient policies and standard operating
procedures (e.g. no idling policy, carpooling, consolidating trips)
5.1 Work with community businesses to increase overall TOV energy efficiency, and establish
partnership with`the Governor's Energy Office (GEO) and Holy Cross Energy to support
renewable energy projects on private property.
5.2 Require or promote the use of a local carbon offset program (e.g. the GEO Colorado
Carbon Fund, or other renewable energy fund) that links a fee to global warming pollution
contributions.
Performance Measures/Environmental Indicators:
• GHG Emissions
• TOV energy bills (fuel, electricity, natural gas)
21
VIII. ECOSYSTEM PROTECTION
Background/Key Issues:
Drought, warmer temperatures and the infestation of the mountain pine beetle have led to increased
wildfire danger in and surrounding Vail. According to the US Forest Service, as of 2007, the beetle has
infested over 70% of the trees from Lionshead to Dowd Junction and during the next five years, the
area surrounding Vail will lose hundreds of thousands of pine trees from this infestation. The dying
and dead trees are more susceptible to catch fire and thus, increase the danger of spreading wildfires.
According to the Town of Vail, through 2010 the Town will spend over $1.5 million on addressing the
beetle outbreak and wildfire preparedness.
Gore Creek is the only major tributary that runs through the Town, and supports both recreational and
sanitation needs. The extent of Gore Creek flowing through Vail has been subjected to numerous
disturbances over the past 30 years including increased sediment from sanding of I -70 during the
winter. Monitoring the effects of sand sedimentation and other pollutant sources on the Gore Creek is
underway and the Town works with the Eagle River Water and Sanitation District on watershed
management programs to improve and protect the future stream health conditions of Gore Creek,
which is a Gold Medal Trout fishery.
The Gore Creek Macroinvertebrate and Stream Health Monitoring Report: 2004 -2006 Monitoring
prepared for the Eagle River Watershed Council, stated that they compared "aquatic insect numbers in
Gore Creek to other healthy streams in the area and found that Gore Creek flowing through Vail is in
poor condition compared to healthy reference sites... Data summarized from various reports (Eagle
River Inventory and Assessment 2005, Hydrosphere 2005, Wynn et al. 2001) indicate that in the past
decade a downward trend in stream health is occurring in Gore Creek, typical of increasing
urbanization."
Current Initiatives
• Since 2000, the Town has been an active member of the Black Gore Creek Steering Committee a
project funding partner for source control and monitoring.
• The Town supports the planning and construction of 63 sedimentation basins on I -70 Vail Pass
over the past five years.
• In 2007, the Town assisted in funding the Colorado Department of Transportation's Sedimentation
Basin of Last Resort project located at mile marker 183 on Vail Pass.
• Supports Gore Creek water quality monitoring efforts by the Forest Service.
• Supports the implementation of Black Gore Creek Total Maximum Daily Loads (threshold for
pollution rates that still meet water quality standards) to identify sediment load reduction projects
and implementation plans.
• The Town is partnering with U.S. and Colorado State Forest Service and Eagle County on the Vail
Valley Forest Health Project, which seeks to reduce wildfire hazard by creating a fire break around
the Town by removing beetle infested trees and working on re- vegetation programs. In 2007, the
Town hired a six person wildfire mitigation hand crew and a crew boss for fire prevention
education and cutting/thinning projects on Town -land adjacent to U.S. Forest Service lands.
• The Town finalized its Community Wildfire Protection Plan in 2007, which outlines how Vail can
protect itself from the threat of wildfire.
• New regulations in 2007 require Class A roof assemblies or roof covering materials on all new
roofs and re -roofs in Vail, as well as banning wood shake and wood shingles for all structures
within the Town.
22
Goal 43: Ensure that the natural environment, specifically air and water quality, water
quantity, land use and habitat are maintained to current or improved levels of biological health
Objectives
1. Maintain Gore Creek watershed as a Gold Medal Fishery, while working to maintain tributaries
meet and/or exceed aquatic life standards set by the state of Colorado through the management of
urban stormwater.
2. Initiate Trees for Vail program as a forest restoration and Town of Vail beautification project to
improve the community and the environment through tree planting.
3. Promote water conservation practices in businesses, community and municipality.
Action Items
1.1 Implement pollution prevention, stream and stormwater monitoring and public education actions
and strategies through the Gore Creek Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPP)
1.1.1 Determine resources and support needed to implement SWPP.
1. 1.2 Partner with stakeholders such as the U.S. Forest Service, Recreational groups and Vail
Resorts to prevent the discharge of sediment into Gore Creek.
1.1.3 Monitor Gore Creek water quality through education and outreach through partnerships
with the Colorado Watershed Assembly and Vail Mountain School to implement the River
Watch Program.
2.1 Establish tree planting committee and develop project resources needed, pure '
purpose, mission, vision
and scope of work. Assign tasks and responsibilities to committee members.
2.2 Determine project budget and explore grant opportunities and other funding sources.
2.3 Determine time line and present project summary to Town Council.
2.4 Complete tree plantings and submit project report to Town Council.
3.1 Conduct public awareness campaign along with ERWSD to promote reduction in water use.
3.2 Promote Xeriscape and native plant use that can reduce water used for irrigation.
Performance Measures/Environmental Indicators
• The presence, condition, and numbers of species of fish, insects, algae, plants and other aquatic
life
• Ground level ozone levels, (smog conditions)
• Number of trees planted and participation in Trees for Vail project
• Community water use (through ERWSD)
23
IX. ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL SUSTAINABILITY
Background/Key Issues
Currently, environmental, social, and economic goals have been pursued largely separately from one
another in Vail. The recent green movement in the United States and around the world has prompted
businesses and municipalities to begin to identify how environmentally friendly business practices and
green building design can be profitable and sustainable, creating happier and healthier employees.
The following economic development vision for Vail was taken from the Vail 20/20 document, The
following vision describes how the community envisions Vail's perfect economy:
Pail's economy is supported through a year -round viable business environment that meets the market
demands of both residents and visitors. The major redevelopment of much`;of the Town has expanded
and enhanced Pail's pedestrian and commercial areas, which provides a strengthened tax base. A
diversity of retail, lodging, dining, special events and service businesses and both indoor and outdoor
recreation opportunities funds a growing employment and revenue base. The Town's strong
infrastructure, environmental stewardship and its cooperation with economic and community partners
benefits Vail's economy. Through prudent cost - management and balancing of diversified revenue
sources, the municipality has sustainable funding for its capital and operational needs.
Recognizing that Vail's economy, social health and environment are not mutually exclusive, the
Environmental Team has begun work with the Economic Development Team and the Economic
Advisory Council to support the Vail Economic Strategic plan goals, while ensuring sustainable
business practices.
Current Initiatives
The Vail Economic Strategic Plan provides a detailed outline of necessary steps and initiatives
launched under the recommendations of the Vail Economic Advisory Council, Planning and
Environmental Commission and local businesses to improve economic health in TOV. Several
economic indicators identified are also indicators of environmental health, such as stream levels, air
pollution, noise, and snow pack, because they can impact the willingness of guests to visit Vail. The
Economic Development and Environmental Departments work together to track and share data and
keep track of impacts and trends on the economy and the environment.
To improve social wellbeing and health, the Town contributes to an employee wellness benefit, which
provides a subsidy for recreational passes and athletic club memberships. The Town also provides free
bus passes and hold yearly employee recognition and appreciation events.
Goal #4 : Lead programmatic efforts to promote sustainable and profitable business practices
within TOV and the Vail community. Support TOV employee wellness programs to ensure a
high quality of life.
Objectives
1. Promote sustainable business practices within TOV through the Vail Valley Partnership and Town
of Vail Destination Preservation sustainable business program.
2. Promote TOV overall employee wellness through strategic partnerships.
3. Work with the Special Events Committee (SEC) to require all events to reduce waste, purchase
sustainable and biodegradable products, and promote CO Carbon Fund offsets.
24
Action Items
1.1 Work with VVP to finalize and implement Destination Preservation.
1.2 Support Destination Preservation by providing energy audits and guidance to Vail businesses on
energy efficiency, conservation, waste reduction, and green purchasing.
2.1 Form TOV employee wellness program task force through Human Resources and local health care
agencies to develop an initiative to promote the improvement of employee quality of life.
3.1 Develop sustainability requirements for special events and review and approve
permits for compliance.
Environmental Indicators/Performance Measures
• Green Hospitality Program participation rates and progress reports.
• Employee wellness program participation rates and progress reports.
• . Compliance with SEC recycling requirements and participation in eco- friendly purchasing.
X. PUBLIC EDUCATION AND COMMUNICATION
Background/Key Issues
The Town of Vail currently hosts or participates in several environmental stewardship events per year.
Currently, the events do not contain an educational element, nor are there any formal TOV
environmental education programs. Several issues related to public education and communication
exist: participation rates for Town events have been relatively low, and lack diversity of events; lack of
educational element at events difficulty reaching second homeowners and tourists given their short
time in Vail
Current Initiatives
• Town of Vail Clean up Day — The TOV annual Clean Up Day event has been occurring for 11
over thirty -one years, to clean the Town following the spring melt. For several years, the Town
has offered a $2S donation to local charities in the name of each volunteer.
• River Clean Up Day - Sponsored by the Eagle River Watershed Council (ERWC), Town Staff
act as stream team leaders, and take a section of Gore Creek and lead clean up efforts.
• I -70 Highway Clean Up Day - Sponsored by ERWC, the 1 -70 Highway Clean Up is the largest
highway cleanup in the US. with approximately 1200 volunteers each year, that clean up over
40 miles of highway each way. The TOV organizes clean up efforts on roughly 3 miles of
highway.
• Electronic Waste Recycling Event — "Get the Lead Out" is an annual electronic waste
collection event sponsored in partnership with the TOV, Eagle Valley Alliance for
Sustainability and Eagle County that allows the community to recycle their electronics and
divert toxic chemicals and equipment from the landfill.
• Town of Vail website, public service announcements, press releases.
Goal #5 :, Increase public education and awareness, communication and environmental
stewardship in the TOV.
Objectives
1. Direct the TOV employee Environmental Focus Group in driving Town sustainability practices
25
through educational initiatives.
2. Develop TOV environmental sustainability public education campaign through collaborative
partnerships.
Action Items
1.1 Establish regular meeting schedule, expand membership, establish motivated committee.
1.2 Set priorities for 1 st year, and develop internal action plan.
1.3 Recognize accomplishments, develop incentive program.
1.4 Develop employee education initiative (e.g. "green thinks" signage, quarterly environmental
education ro am — rotating environmental topics, monthly employee newsletter
P �' g P� Y )
1.5 Monitor and report success and provide regular updates.
2.1 Build awareness of the Vail ecosystem by coordinating the promotion of outdoor recreation
amenities with Vail Recreation District and other local stewards of the environment.
2. 1.1 Build awareness of Vail's ecosystem and sustainability efforts among elected officials, key
decision makers and the public through partnerships with: Gore Creek Natural Science
School, Eagle Valley Alliance for Sustainability, Vail Resorts and the Discover and Nature
Centers, Vail Recreation District.
2.1.2 Identify, promote, and encourage participation in educational opportunities for land use
decision - makers, (e.g., planning commission, local boards, developers, chamber of
commerce).
Environmental Performance Measures/Indicators
• Reductions in fuel, electricity and energy use
• Adherence to no idling policy by community and TOV
• Participation rates in educational campaign initiatives (River Watch Program, employee
information sessions, Public workshops and participation in programs such as recycling drop
off, commercial participation in GHP,
• Successful marketing (website hits, surveys, radio spots, presentations, participation rates,
response to mailers, increase in recycling program, attendance at events).
XI. TRANSPORTATION
Background/Key Issues
The Town of Vail operates the largest free mass transit system in North America, yet over 2 million
vehicles pass through TOV on 1 -70 each year. The highway running through the center of Town
presents challenges; highway noise, stormwater runoff, and vehicle emissions.
Current Initiatives
• There are 2 active TOV employee carpools.
• TOV participates in the I -70 Coalition ongoing dialogue on the highway transportation plan.
• TOV purchased seven hybrid buses in 2008, for a total of eight in the fleet, costing over $3.5
million.
• TOV has abundant bicycle routes running from East to Intermountain and throughout Vail Village
and Lionshead.
26
Goal #6 : Reduce the environmental impact of transportation by supporting efforts within the
Eagle Valley to decrease total Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) by commuters and guests by 20%
by 2020.
Objectives
1. Increase Van and Carpool use within TOV employees and guests.
2. Establish collaborative partnerships for improved mass transit.
3. Increase bicycle use and alternative low impact modes of transportation.
Action Items
1.1 Identify barriers to carpooling
1.2 Develop incentive programs for employees who participate in the reduce TOV VMT challenge.
1.3 Partner with local marketing efforts to encourage guest use of mass transit and carpooling.
1.4 Track participation through annual surveys and ridership statistics.
2.2 Work with ECO to identify barriers to bus use through TOV community and employee surveys.
2.3 Identify mechanism to increase ridership (e.g. incentives, additional routes, pickup and drop -off
times, etc.)
3.1 Identify barriers to bicycling to work through employee surveys.
3.2 Work with management to accommodate bicycling employees with needed infrastructure (Town
bicycles, helmets, shower facilities).
3.3 Develop incentive programs for bike to work days.
Performance Measures/Environmental Indicators
• Total VMT by employees annually
• Percent increase in carpool and bus ridership
• Total VMT by guests
27
XII. IMPLEMENTATION MATRIX
Town of Vail Environmental Sustai►nabi ty Plan
Goals, Objectives, Actions and hndcators
1-Dec-08
'��� s � aii�t
' z� ": b�
Goal #l : Solid Waste 1. Create a culture of waste 1.1 Track solid waste and recycling levels in TOV through partnerships • Solid Waste C-03 Env. Team
Stream Reduction and reduction and resource efficiency with waste haulers. Landrrll Volumes 2009 Staff time
Recycfing: Reduce the by delivering a consistent 1.2 Identify participation rates of 1) Community Development • Recycled
amount of TOV iarir#iif message of resource efficiency Department 2) Other TOV department employees 3) Public 4) Materials
eorrt>eb tons by 117% through recycling sites, Commercial in public drop-off recycling program. Volumes
vufth 5 years, and 25% community messages and guest 1.3 Contract with PAYT consultant to. conduct feasibility study for • Cardboard and
wathin f0 years. wtimdences. PAYT, develop Steering Committee, obtain public comment and obtain co-mingled
feedback and buy-on from valley waste haulers for system configuration, recycling hauls
planning and rate structure; hold community infomralion session. • Number of
1.4 Investigate complementary programs such as composting burskresses,
(crnbadrop off). community
LS Develop Town ordnance requiring residential and commercial members and
curbside recycling. employees who
1.7 Create recycling committee from Town departments, community participate In
and other stakeholders. recycling
programs
2. Develop education program(s) 2.1 Develop a commercial cardboard recycling collection program for B-02 Env. Team
b increase waste reduction, Vag businesses. 2OD9 Staff lime,
reuse, and recycling program 2.2 Promote and support Vag grocery tote bag program in partnership (ongoing) partnership
participation rates of TOV with the Colorado Association of Ski Towns (CAST) to reduce plastic volunteer
employees and the Vag bag disposal. time,
community. signage.
3. Implement a Fay as you 3.1 Develop a waste hauling and recycling information brochure. A-01 Env Team
ThroW (PAYT) curbside waste 3.2 Determine implementation steps and enforcement mechanism. 20D9-04 Staff time,
pickup and recycling program in 3.3 Conduct pilot test and phase in with customer education 2DD9 consulting
TOY. 3.4 Monitor and refine program 6 months after implementation. The (matching
NWCCOG
grant-
35,30W
4. Promote and eventually 4.1 Develop, Tam policy to ensure that all building pemtits will require a B-02 Env Team
require recycling of construction waste management plan that k larMes sources of waste and methods 2DD9 Staff time,
waste and bullring material. to reduce, rouse and recycle. (ongoing) stakeholder
4.2 Partner with RECON and Habitat for Humanity for TOV Imedvemdd
deconstruction materials delivery. and
4.3 Promote construction and building contractor waste reduction and promollori -
recydng education in the TOV. $s,ow (e$L)
S. Hold annual waste diversion 5.1 Work v ftr the Eagle Valley Alliance for Sustebabigfy and oDoer local B ongoing 32,000-
events within TOV. partners to Trost recycling S5,0mistaff
events for hazardous materials, electronic waste, and promotion of T ime
wade reduction.
6. Collaborate with Garfield, 6.1 Forth a Tri- County Partnership with Engle, CoMd, and Pitkin A-01 Env. Team
Pftidn and Eagle Counties on the Counties. 2DD9 -04 Staff time,
regional solid waste diversion 6.2 Develop and complete a waste characterization study; pursue U.S. 2DD9 USDA
program that sfreandines Department of Agriculture Solid Waste Management gram to fund the funding
recycling and waste reduction. project.
6.3 Lead a 6i oou ty community survey to iderdity attitudes and
practices related to waste diversion and recycing.
Goat #2: Energy 1. Track and reduce TOV 1.1 Track TOV municipal energly use using Energy Tracker software • GHG A-01 Env. Teem
Efficiency. Raduce fire municipal and community energy 1.2 Conduct c ornmunity- -wide GHG emissions inventory to establish emissions 2DD9 staff time,
71DV ff mhchpal and use and GHG emissions. baseline. inventory soh -re,
cornn -my energy use by 1.3 Jan ICLEI's Local Governments for Sustainablity Cities for Climate (community, consulting
20% below 2OW levels Protection Campaign, commits ft to reducing GHG emissions and TCM fees $6,000
by 20720, in oiler to achieving the "S milestones' identified in the agreement. • TOV energy (est)
ewecbvedy rednCe the bile (fuel,
Tam`s dwntr WOn to electricity,
gteertrcuse gas Inatunil gas)
28
- k
_ _. . ; .__
emissions and impact on 2. Implement Green Building 2.7 Implement a high performance building code or program for all new A - 01 Building and
gtaHat cxlmete criarrge. Code Program that requires new development and TOV 2009.03 Env. Team
construction and major facilities (e.g, 20119 staff time,
renovations to achieve LEED for New Construction, Green Built Colorado, or similar stakeholder
designated resource and energy program). involvement,
efficiency targets. 2.2 Develop and adopt energy and resource - efficient building standards promotion
for all existing TOV facilities. and
2.2.1 Require all Town - funded remodel projects to exceed the materials_
International Energy Conservation Training for
Code by at least 15% on rehofRs. employees.
2.2.2 Require Energy Star or better products when available far all new $30,000
equipment. (est)
22.3 Utilize strategic tree planting to reduce cooling loads of buildings.
2.2.4 Create a high performance operations and preventative
maintenance manual forfacfiity
managers.
2.2.5 Replace outdated HVAC systems and other outdated equipment
(e.g. computer monitors,
outdating plumbing fixtures, fighting, boilers, fans, pumps, belts,
controls).
2.3 Evaluate the energy and global warning pollution trade-off of new
facilities.
2.4 Educate the public on the adopted green building program and
provide services at the Department
3. Implement energy efficiency 3.1 Work with TOV Faclities Team to instill a culture of conservation. Env. Team
and conservation measures for 3.2 Contract for an `investment -grade` audit for all facilities that perform staff time,
municipal facilities. 20% or more below the national average, as identified in Table 2. sofware,
3.3 Obtain a performance contract for appropriate municipal buildings consulting
through an energy service contractor. fees 36,0D0
3.4 Educate Town staff and the community on global warning impacts. (eat)
3.5 Conduct feasibility study of a biomass heat and power plant in TOV
using beetle killed trees, waste wood and landfill waste.
3.6 Research additional alternative energy options, such as solar, mic
hydro, geothermal, and wind power generated for municipal facilities.
3.7 Require fife cycle cost analysis for all major equipment purchases
and replacement
4. Increase finef efficiency, 4.1 Research alternative fuel options for town transif/fJeet operations. A-01 Hybrid
reduce Teel use and al Obtain additional fuel tank for alternative fuels. 2009 -03 vehicle
consumption, and create a viable 4.2 Work with Public Works Department Staff to develop fuel efficient 2014 investment,
program for alternative fuels policies and standard operating procedures (e.g. no idling policy, additional
within TOV fleet carpooling, consolidating trips). fuel tank,
staff time
(ErnlFleet) -
$100 000
5. Implement community energy 5.1 Work with community businesses to increase overall TOV energy A-01 Renewable
efficiency and renewable energy efficiency, and establish partnership with the Govemoes Energy Office 2009 -03 energy
program. (GEO) and Holy Cross Energy to support renewable energy projects on 2013 project
private property_ investment -
52 Require the use of a mandatory or voluntary local carbon offset matching
program (e.g. the GEO Colorado Carbon Fund, or other renewable grant
energy fund) that finks a fee to global warming pollution contributions. program
solar -
$100,000.
Biomass $9-
12,000,000
(eat).
Carbon offset
program
creation and
promotion -
Env. Team
Staff time +
$45,0M
(eat) Energy
efficiency
upgrades:
(parking
structures,
library,
municipal
bidge -
$1,000,000
eat)
a- ...:
29
are g ;. r s
Goaf #i . Ecosystem 1. Maintain Gore Creek 1.1 Implement pollution prevention, stream and stomwater monitoring • The presence, B (2DO9- Env. Team
health: Ensure that the watershed as a Gold Medal and public education actions and strategies through the Gore Creek condition, and 2010 staff time,
natural environment, Fishery, while working to Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPP) nu mbem of the ongoing) investment
specifically air and water maintain tribuiarfes meet andlor 1.1.1 Determine resources and support needed to implement SWPP. types offish, and
quality, water quantity. exceed squatic life standards set 1.1.2 Partite with stakeholders such as the U.S. Forest Service, inserts. algae, pronwtion of
land use and habitat are by the state of Colorado through Recreational groups and Vail Resorts to prevent the discharge of plants and other SWPP
maintained to current or the management or urban sediment into Gore Creek. aquatic life program,
Improved levels of stomwvater. 1.1.3 Monitor Gore Creek water quality through education and • Ground level consulting
biological health. outreach through partnerships with the Colorado Watershed Assembly ozone levels, fees. 550,000
and Val Mountain School to implement the River Watch Program. (smog (est)
conditions)
• Number of
2. Initiate Trees for Val program 2.1 Establish tree planting committee and develop project resources tress planted A-02 Env. Team
as a forest restoration and Town needed, purpose, mission, vision and scope of work. Assign tasks and and participation 2DD9 staff time,
of Vat besutfieation project to responsibilities to committee members. n Trees for Val (ongoing) Irnch,
Improve the community and the 2.2 Determine project budget and explore grant opportunities and other project promotion
environment through tree funding sources. • Community (S5.OD0)
planting. 2.3 Determine time line and present project summary to Town Council. water ties
2.4 Complete tree plantings and submit project report to Town Council. (through
3. Promote water conservation 3.1 Conduct public awareness campaign along with ERWSD to promote ERWSD) C-03 Env. Team
practices in businesses, reduction in water use. 2DD9 - staff time,
community and municipordy. 3.2 Promote Xeriscape and native plant use that can reduce wafer used 2010 faucet
forimgetion. aerators,
showerheads
other
, �! � , sX� '4R� ,. ➢,�, +,a ,: ;a`.n ST ,.,f_..�rska, <.A ?:ir,.. �. _n•c G" !e+1u'a';.: ,ni
Goat #* Sustainable Promote sustainable business 1.1 Work with VVP to finalize and implement Desfinadw Preservation. • Green A-01 Frn. Team
Economic and Sodst practices within TOV through the 1.2 Support Des6nafior Preservatom by providing energy audits and Hospitality 2DD9 - staff time (30
Devefopmenh Lead Val Valley Partnership and TOV guidance to Vail businesses on energy efficiency, conservation, waste Program ongoing min.
programmatic efforts to Destination Preservation reduction, and green purchasing_ participation consultations
promote sustainable and sustainable business program- rates and }, equipment,
profitable business progress promotion,
practices within ToV and reports. $5,0001yr.
the Vail community. • Employee
Support ToV employee 2. Promote TOV overall 2.1 Form TOV employee wellness program task force through Human Iness C-03 Staff time,
wallows programs to employee wellness through Resources and local health rare agencies to develop an initiative to program 2010-03 partnership
esnure a high quality of strategic partnerships. promote the improvement of empbyee quality of tire. participation 2012 with MR,
rates and Hospital,pro
progress motion -
3. Work with the Special Events 3.1 Review and approve special event permits for compliance with • Compliance A-01 stafff firm,
Committee (SEC) to require all sustakrsbility requirements. with SEC 2009 - proration
events to reduce waste, recycling ongoing and producer
purchase sustainable and requirements assistance -
biodegradable products, and and participation Ss
promote CO Carbon Fund in eco4riendly (oath
ofteta. purchasing
,
+�.a;'.! t.X.a�Si`.'� „G�',,,' *,. +A�f: .��Pi., ,44dn "f, rFS.!'�. .]r� ° all.. "t; ,.. ,';.�. `�N.k � ,::,• ev. p. ;
Goal t1NL Pvtoic 1. Direct the TOV employee 1.1 Establish regular meeting schedule, expand membership, establish • Reductions in A-01-04 Staff time,
Edocatton and Environmental Focus Group in motivated committee. fuel; electricity 2009- incentive
CommrmiceSorr. diving Tanta ausleirablOty 12 Set priorities far 1 at year, and develop Internal action plan. and energy use ongoing bonus
Ina eese public education v 1 1 through educational 1.3 Recognize accomplishments, develop 6roeenUve program. • Adherence to $1,000V
and awareness, kti moves_ 1.4 Develop employee education Initiative (e.g. 'green thi a signage, no biting policy (ast)
communication and quarterly environmental education program - rotadrg environimental by community
environmental kples, monthy employee ne Wer) and TOY
etawwardship in TOV. 1.5 Monitor and report success and provide regular updates. • Participation
2. Develop TOV enviromantd 2.1 Build awareness of the Vail ecosystem by coordinating the rates in 6-04 time,
sustainabiity public education proration of o kkior recreation amenities with Val Recreation District educational 2009 -Q4 grant
campaign through collaborative and other local stewards of the environment campaign 2D14 fundkhg,
partrhershpe. 21.1 Build awareness of Vat's ecosystem and suaffiinab8'ily efforts initiatives (River $10,0OD yr_
among elected officials, key decision makers and the public through Watch Program, (oath
partnerships with: Gore Creek Natural Science School, Eagle Valley employee
Alliance for Susfainalifift Vail Resorts and the Discover and Nature Information
Centers, Vail Recreation District sessions, Public
2.12 Identify, promote, and encourage participation In educational workshops and
opportunities for land use decision- makers, (e.g., planning commission, participation in
local boards, devekipats, chamber of commerce). erce). programs such
as
drop off,
co irrierdal
participation In
GHP,
0 0
Goal #6 : 1. Increase van and Carpool use 1.1 Identify barriers M carpooling • Total VMT by B- 04 2009 Staff time,
Ttanaportatian Reduce wbtldn TOV employees and 1.2 Develop incentive program for employees who participate in the employees -042012 incentives
the environments! impact guests. reduce TOV VMT challenge. annuatiy ongoing S�yr-
of transportallm by 1.3 Partner with kcal marketing efforts to encourage guest use of now • increase in (eat)
supportkg efforts within transit and carpooling. Carpool and bus
the Eagle Valley to 1.4 Track participation through annual surveys_ ridership
decrease total Vehicle 2_ Establish collaborative 2.2 Wok with ECO to identify barriers to bus use through TO • Total VMT by C - Q1 Slat time,
M
Miles Traveled CAM by partnerships for improved mass comm surveys. uunity and employee sveys. guests 2009.04 STBD
commuters and guests by transit. 2 -3 Identify mechanism to increase ridership (e.g. incentives, addutionai 2011
20% by 2020. routes and times etc.
3. Increase bicycle use and 3.1 Identity barriers to bicycling to work through employee surveys- C-03 Staff time,
alternative law impact modes of 32 Work with management to accommodate bicycling employees with 2D09- 04 $TOD
transportation needed infrastructure (town bicycles, helmets, shower faclities)_ 2014
1 3.3 Develop incentive program for blue to work days.
30
XIII. FUNDING
In order to launch major sustainability initiatives in the Town of Vail including energy upgrades and
renewable energy projects, educational initiatives, waste reduction and other programs, capital
investment and initial resources will be required, though in many cases long term return on investment
is the goal. The TOV Environmental Team will continue to identify partnership opportunities to offset
the capital investment required from the TOV budget to drive priority projects. Collaborative efforts
will facilitate successful programs, community involvement, and environmental stewardship. TOV
will collaborate through partnerships, grant funding, volunteerism or information - sharing with local,
state, and federal organizations including but not limited to the following: TOV and Valley businesses,
Eagle County, Eagle River Water and Sanitation District, Holy Cross Energy, Xcel Energy, Valley
non - profit organizations; education community, State of Colorado (e.g. Governor's Energy Office,
Colorado Department of Health and Environment, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Department of
Agriculture), Governmental organizations (e.g. Northwest Colorado Council of Governments).
XIV. REPORTING
The TOV Environmental Team will create an annual Environmental Sustainability Report, as part of
the TOV Annual Report, which will use the environmental indicators identified in this plan to provide
information on TOV energy use, GHG emissions, waste diversion calculations and program progress.
XV. ESSENTIAL NEXT STEPS
• Continue to meet with the Environmental Sustainability Advisory Committee made up of key
community members and stakeholders, to seek feedback on planned action items.
• Continue to present environmental programs to the Planning and Environmental Commission to
incorporate environmental goals within the planning and approval process of Town projects.
• Develop a communications plan.
• Work with the Vail Valley Partnership to roll out the Destination Preservation Program.
• Identify partnerships and funding mechanisms to leverage Town funds for sustainability initiatives
(e.g. renewable energy, performance contracting and building upgrades, PAYT program)
31
REFERENCES
Carlson, Bill. (2006) Memo to Vail Town Council dated 01/17/06. Town of Vail.
Colorado Department of Transportation. (2008) www.cotrip.org Information on I -70 Resurfacing
Projects. Accessed 4/3/08
Eagle County. (2006) Eagle County Landfill Fact Sheet
Eagle River Water and Sanitation District. (2006) Memo to Town of Vail dated 11/1/2006.
Eagle River Watershed Council. (2007) The Gore Creek Macroinverteli'rate and Stream
Health Monitoring Report: 2004 -2006.
Felsburg Holt and Ulevig. (2007) Town of Vail Transportation Master Plan. Town of Vail.
Gore Creek Watershed Management Plan (2006)
Mathieson, Alister, and Geoffrey and Wall. (1982) Tourism: Economic, Physical and Social Impacts,
New York: Longman. p. 21
RRC Associates. (2007) Town of Vail Community Survey Results.
Schmueser, Gordon and Meyer (2007). Town of Vail Energy Action Plan. Town of Vail
Southern Rockies Ecosystem Project. (2007) State of the Southern Rockies Ecoregion.
http:// www. restoretherockies .org/report.html Accessed 4/5/08
State of Vail Report. (2007). Town of Vail.
Town of Vail Department of Community Development. (2007) Development Statistics 2007.
Town of Vail Public Works Department (2005). Streetscape Master Plan Background Information.
Town of Vail
United Nations. (1987) "Report of the World Commission on Environment and Development."
General Assembly Resolution 42/187. Accessed 4/01/08.
Vail 20/20: Focus on the Future: Strategic Action Plan (2007). Town of Vail.
32
RESOLUTION NO.2
Series 2009
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE CHAMONIX MASTER PLAN, TO FACILITATE THE
DEVELOPMENT OF EMPLOYEE HOUSING AND A FIRE STATION ON THE "CHAMONIX
PARCEL" AND "WENDY'S PARCEL" AND TO AMEND THE VAIL LAND USE PLAN,
PURSUANT TO SECTION 8 -3, AMENDMENT PROCESS, VAIL LAND USE PLAN TO
DESIGNATE THE CHAMONIX MASTER PLAN AREA LOCATED AT 2399 NORTH
FRONTAGE ROAD AND 2310 CHAMONIX ROAD /PARCELS A AND B, RE- SUBDIVISION
OF TRACT D, VAIL DAS SCHONE FILING 1,
WHEREAS, The Town of Vail (the "Town "), in the County of Eagle and State of Colorado
is a home rule municipal corporation duly organized and existing under the laws of the State of
Colorado and the Town Charter (the "Charter"); and
WHEREAS, The members of the Town Council of the Town (the "Council ") have been
duly elected and qualified; and
WHEREAS, In 2002, the Town of Vail purchased the "Chamonix Parcel" for the purpose
of constructing employee housing and a new fire station; and
WHEREAS, In 2007, the Town of Vail purchased the "Wendy's Parcel" for the purpose
of constructing a new fire station; and
WHEREAS, On January 8, 2008, the Town Council established the "Chamonix Advisory i
Committee" for the purpose of developing master plan options; and
WHEREAS, The "Chamonix Advisory Committee" held numerous public meetings over
eight months; and
WHEREAS, The "Chamonix Advisory Committee" developed three master plan options;
and
WHEREAS, On August 5, 2008, the Council instructed staff to fully develop the
"Neighborhood Block" option for the development of deed restricted, for -sale employee housing
and a West Vail Fire Station; and
WHEREAS, On December 22, 2008 the Town of Vail Planning and Environmental
Commission gave a recommendation of approval with a modification (4 -1 -0, Proper opposed);
and
WHEREAS, The Town Council finds that the adoption of the Chamonix Master Plan and
Land Use Plan Amendments are in keeping with the goals, objectives, and policies of the Town
of Vail; and
WHEREAS, The Town Council finds that the adoption of the Chamonix Master Plan is in
the best interest of the Town as it promotes the coordinated and harmonious development of
the Town.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE
TOWN OF VAIL, COLORADO, THAT:
Resolution No. 2, Series 2009,
Page 1 of 4
Section 1. Chamonix Master Plan Adoption
Adoption of the "Chamonix Master Plan dated January 6, 2009, prepared for the
Town of Vail by Stan Clawson Associates, inc" copies of which are attached
hereto as Exhibit B , and made a part hereof by this reference.
Section 2. Vail Land Use Plan Amendment
A. The Council hereby approves the Vail Land Use Plan amendments, as illustrated
by text additions stated in bold italics and deletions in s#Fikethmu@1:4 and the
following maps and figures attached to this resolution as exhibits:
1. Amended Map A — Vail Land Use Plan
2. Tract 43 — Chamonix Parcel
The 3.6 acre Chamonix Parcel has been identified for the location of a future
high density, for -sale, deed - restricted employee housing development
consisting of approximately 58 dwelling units (16 to 17 dwelling units per
acre).
TQWAFA 10 Va Uses. SersendaFy uses on the s O nG l ude a med deFlS
. A Land
Use Plan depicting the the future uses has been prepared as the
result of a comprehensive public planning process and is included as Appendix
F of this document.
Tract 44 — West Vail Fire Station
The 1.25 acre West Vail Fire Station Parcel has been identified for the
location of a new fire station in West Vail. A Land Use Plan depicting the
location of the new fire station on the parcel has been prepared and is
included as Appendix G of this document.
CMP - Chamonix Master Plan Area
Included in this category are those properties which are identified as being
included in the Chamonix Master Plan boundaries. Properties located
within this land use category shall be encouraged to develop, per the
Master Plan recommendations, as it has been found necessary in order for
Vail to remain a successful resort community. Uses and activities for these
areas are intended to encourage a safe, convenient and pleasant resident
experience. The range of uses and activities appropriate in the Chamonix
Master Plan (CMP) land use category may include deed restricted employee
housing, private recreation facilities, private parking facilities, and
institutional /public uses such as a fire station and other municipal facilities
to serve the needs of residents.
Section 3. Effective Date
This Resolution shall be effective immediately upon adoption.
Resolution No. 2, Series 2009,
Page 2 of 4
INTRODUCED, READ, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 6 day of January, 2009.
Richard D. Cleveland, Mayor, Town of Vail
ATTEST:.
Lorelei Donaldson, Town Clerk
Resolution No. 2, Series 2009,
Page 3 of 4
Map A
CHAMONIX DEVELOPMENT PROPERTY: LAND USE
Chamonix Parcel: Parcel B, re- subdivision of Tract D, Vail Das Schone Filing 1; 2310 Chamonix Road
Former Wendy's Parcel: Parcel A, re- subdivision of Tract D, Vail Das Schone Filing 1; 2399 North Frontage Road West
2447 1J45 243 + 2338 2338
2289 110
2249
X 24 � * 4 p 0 2379 '^V d
2329 /
S ► � i
'y D
N w
ry 0
G 1
v m ti ,
d �
L D` 0
A 2437
L .
N Foinner�,
Parcel
■
U
440 EXISTING LAND USE
S r !! Low Density Residential
2444 -,,, �, ! j Medium Density Residential
-Community Commercial —
Faat W ...
7 2338 2338
2447 2445 M t, 4 2289 26
1
P
R
4 t
14 /
P
O 7q'5 yba .o
S • °s4 y
E .'
ti
D
v � ry pti
L
A 2437
N -- 2399
D
U 440 9 _ _� •� PROPOSED LAND USE _
S' - t - r� '\� �• ` Chamonix Master Plan
\a
t
E 24447 Medium Density Residential
• - Community Commercial M
Fac
® 0 100 200 400 aw`r —
Laf MOd d - Dacamem 10, 2008 ThNmaD Vraaaaate4 •yfh•T dVYIGIS work9fouD. Uae of M•map fhou140efor genmal purpo•n oNy.
TheTOwn of Vail 4on not wrraMthe accurxy oltBe lnlamatlon contained heraln.lwhae sham. Darcel lme work is sFpra�vnatal ���'
Resolution No. 2, Series 2009,
Page 4 of 4
r
Chamonix Master Plan
r
j
1
6 January 2009
Adopted by Resolution No. 2,
Series of 2009
Prepared For the Town of Vail by
STAN MAUSUH ASSMATESk c
Drexel, Barrell & Co. t E L t S
Chamonix Master Plan
Acknowledgements
The Chamonix Area Master Plan Amendment is the result of over a year of work on the
part of many individuals. Without the effort of the Vail Town Council, the Chamonix
Advisory Committee, the Planning and Environmental Commission, the Vail Local Housing
Authority, and Town of Vail Staff the Chamonix Area Master Plan would not have been
completed.
Vail Town Council Planning and Environmental Commission
Dick Cleveland, Mayor Bill Pierce, Chair
Andy Daly, Mayor Pro -Tem Rollie Kjesbo, Co -Chair
Kevin Foley Michael Kurz
Mark Gordon Sarah Robinson- Paladino
Farrow Hitt Scott Proper
Kim Newbury Susie Tjossem
Margaret Rogers David Viele
Chamonix Advisory Committee Vail Local Housing Authority
Bob Armour Mark Ristow, Chair
Jack Bergey Sally Jackle
Andy Daly Steve Lindstrom
Rollie Kjesbo Ethan Moore
Ethan Moore Kim Newbury
Mark Ristow
Margaret Rogers
David Viele
Town of Vail Staff Consultants
Stan Zemler, Town Manager Stan Clauson Associates, Inc.
George Ruther, Community Dev. Director Studio B Architects
Mark Miller, Vail Fire Chief Drexel, Barrell & Co.
Craig Davis, Vail Fire Department Economic & Planning Systems
Nina Timm, Housing Coordinator
Scott Hunn, Former Project Planner
Chamonix Master Plan
Table of Contents
1. Project Scope 1
J
2. Process 3
A. Overview
B. Advisory Committee
C. Town Council Hearing
D. Refinement of Schemes
E. Sustainability
3. Final Recommendations 6
A. Advisory Committee
B. Final Town Council Approval
4. Preferred Option 7
5. Procedural Requirements 9
6. Non - Preferred Options 9
7. Recommended Actions 12
8. Appendix 12
Chamonix Master Plan
1. PROJECT SCOPE
The proposed design schemes for the Chamonix Master Plan Area were directed by the
stated goals and objectives developed early in the community participation process.
The consultant team of Stan Clauson Associates, Inc., Studio B Architects, and Drexel,
II
Barrell & Co. identified a variety of opportunities and constraints from the unique physical
characteristics of the
Chamonix site. The inclusion
�3
j of a fire station and student
dormitory further complicated
the layout and programmatic
elements of the site design.
The Master Plan Area is
generally south facing and
sloped and occupies a highly
visible location off of the west
Vail exit (Exit No. 173) from I-
70. Highway commercial and
strip mall commercial
development characterizes the uses off of the frontage road and Chamonix Road, with
residential neighborhoods characterizing the use patterns off of Chamonix Lane. The
Chamonix Master Plan Area is located near to bus stops on both the West Vail Red and
Green Loop transit lines. Commercial and employment opportunities are located in the
commercial areas within walking distance of the site.
The Town Council identified eleven development goals to direct the master planning
process. These goals were:
• The site is to be used for development of a fire station and employee housing.
Housing for student fire department employees should be considered in the
design of the fire station.
• An ambulance substation could be an ancillary use on the site.
• Energy - efficient and sustainable design and construction techniques are
important. Certification by a particular program (LEED, Green Globes) is to be
investigated, although not mandatory.
• 100 percent of housing developed should be deed - restricted, for -sale employee
Chamonix Master Plan
housing, with a mix of one -, two -, and three - bedroom units.
• The site should be optimized to provide the greatest amount of employee
housing.
• Re- zoning the site to Housing (H) District is preferred to allow flexibility in design
and development.
• Additional traffic onto Chamonix Lane should be limited.
• One -story of development along Chamonix Lane is acceptable.
• All financing and phasing options will be considered.
• New pedestrian circulation and access routes should be provided around the
site, along Chamonix Road and /or Lane, to ensure connectivity of the
surrounding neighborhood to other areas within West Vail. Existing pedestrian
paths through the site are to be limited.
The charge made by the Vail Town Council to "optimize the site" required that the
planning concepts developed by the design team be evaluated in the context of
adjacent uses. The ultimate goal was to provide a plan for the Chamonix Master Plan
Area that balanced the concepts of density, neighborhood impact, and traffic and
parking concerns with aesthetics, sustainability, and value in a way that would address
the community need for additional affordable housing in a contextually appropriate
way.
The target group for the Chamonix development was families. The target group income
was determined to fall within 60 -120% of the Area Median Income (AMI) range for Eagle
County, with a possible inclusion of incomes up to 140% of AMI. In current dollars, this
equated to a household income range of $47,000 to $94,000, with a possible excursion to
$110,000.
An important component to the site plan for the Chamonix Master Plan Area was the
inclusion of a new fire station. Members of the Town Council recommended the fire
station be segregated from the residential use of the Chamonix development for safety
and noise reasons. Dedicated access for emergency equipment was requested, as was
the incorporation of a community room for public gathering. A student dormitory, to
help alleviate the cramped conditions experienced by fire department recruits, was also
requested. Finally, provisions for possible Ambulance District participation were to be
considered.
2
Chamonix Master Plan
- i
2. PROCESS
A. History of Chamonix Master Plan Area
The Town of Vail acquired the 3.6 -acre "Chamonix Parcel" in October, 2002, for the
purpose of constructing a fire station, employee housing and land banking. To
achieve the Town's goals the Town of Vail adopted the Chamonix Master Plan in
2005. The Master Plan outlined development areas for a fire station, employee
housing and open space.
In 2007, the Town of Vail was able to acquire the adjacent former Wendy's Site. It
was determined the former Wendy's Site was a more optimal location, from an
emergency services perspective, for a future West Vail Fire Station. Based upon the
acquisition of the new property, the Town of Vail determined it could better utilize
the two parcels if a new, comprehensive master plan process was completed. A
Request for Proposals to hire a new consultant team was issued in September, 2007.
The Team of Stan Clauson Associates, Inc., Studio B Architects, and Drexel, Barrell &
Co. were retained by the Town of Vail to develop this new Chamonix Master Plan.
B. Overview
During a period of six months, the consulting team developed three schemes. The
three schemes, titled Neighborhood Block, Neighborhood Cluster, and Village
Neighborhood, explored varying densities and internal character. Development of
the three schemes benefited from informal and formal meetings with stakeholders
and Town staff and from responses to a survey distributed to potential residents.
Members of the consultant team also attended the Fire Chief Magazine "Station
Style Design Conference" in Phoenix to broaden their understanding of current fire
station design trends. Revisions to the three schemes were periodically presented to
the Advisory Committee for additional input and direction, and these refinements
were subsequently presented to the Town Council.
Information from the Town department heads was considered in the site planning
and design guidelines for the development of the employee housing and fire station
at the Chamonix Master Plan Area. Information from other sources was balanced
with the input gained from the Focus Groups.
3
Chamonix Master Plan
Y
I
C. Advisory Committee
On 16 January 2008 a "Kick -Off' meeting was held for the purpose of introducing the
Chamonix Site Master Plan project to the Advisory Committee. The Advisory
Committee, which was selected by Town of Vail staff as well as citizens, consisted of
representative from the Town Council, the Planning and Environmental Commission,
the Housing Authority, the Vail Fire Department, Community Development, and two
Citizens at Large. Duties of the Advisory Committee consisted of reviewing previous
master planning efforts produced for the Chamonix site, engaging in discussions on
new opportunities and changed conditions to be considered during the new master
planning effort, and issuing recommendations to the consultant team on the
parameters that would guide the process and the creation of alternative
development scenarios.
D. Town Council Hearing
The Town Council received an update on the work to date on 20 May 2008. The
consultant team presented three schemes which ranged in total unit counts from 50
to 70 units. Optimizing the density of the site, the Council's charge at the outset of
the master planning effort, was not construed to mean that the maximum number of
units possible for the site should be sought. Rather, the consultant team sought a
balance between number of units and resident population, with special
consideration given to the quality of the experience of living in and around the
4
Chamonix Master Plan
development. The Town Council instructed the design team to seek a middle path
on density, considering internal views and character of the surrounding
neighborhoods. There was also a discussion of unit sizes, with the Council inclining
toward larger units of two, there and possibly four bedrooms.
E. Refinement of Schemes
Based on the Council's comments and the request accommodate more family -
oriented units, the schemes were refined to concentrate on the creation of two and
three bedroom units. Units ranged in size from 768 sq. ft for 1- bedroom units, 1,292 sq.
ft. for 2- bedroom flats, 1,333 sq. ft. for 2 bedroom lofts, 1,460 sq. ft. for 3- bedroom
units to 1,632 sq. ft. for 3 bedroom duplex units. Because family housing was the
stated focus of the development, one bedroom units were incorporated sparingly
and generally used as "infill." There was attention to the possibility of providing 4-
bedroom units. While these were not included in the final unit mix, some units were
designed with expansion potential, where a fourth bedroom could be finished later.
F. Sustainability.
Various construction methods and site design techniques
were discussed for the site which conformed to "green"
practices. Both traditional on -site building methods as
well as the use of offsite, factory built construction were
considered for the ultimate construction of the housing
�• E E 4 structures. Based on discussions with the Advisory
Committee, offsite, factory built construction became the
preferred method due to the energy efficiencies as well
as lower construction costs inherent with this construction method. Site design
standards which focused on solar orientation, limits to site disturbance, brown -field
development, open space preservation, access to transit, and on -site storm water
retention were integrated into the three schemes as providing the basis for certifiably
sustainable construction practices.
Certification of the project using a third -party certification program, such as the
United States Green Building Council LEED certification process, was considered and
was included in the cost estimates. The Advisory Committee determined that third-
party certification would create potential advantages in the future marketing of the
development, would leverage the green techniques used in the development to
5
Chamonix Master Plan
or
encourage require other rivate developments to seek the same standards, and
q p p
foster community pride. As a part of the third party certification process, on -site
storm water detention, which would minimize impacts from impermeable surfaces at
the Chamonix site to the municipal storm water system, was incorporated in to the
design.
3. FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS
A. Advisory Committee
On 17 July 2008, the final Advisory Committee meeting was held. The consultants
presented the final versions of the three schemes and, after discussing the schemes,
the Advisory Committee members in attendance voted on their preferred scheme for
recommendation to the Town Council. The "Village Neighborhood" scheme, which
was the most dense scheme that featured an underground parking garage, received
six of the ten votes cast, the "Neighborhood Block" plan received four of the ten votes
cast, and the "Neighborhood Cluster" received none of the votes cast. While the
Village Neighborhood became the elected preference of the Advisory Committee, a
subsequent discussion after the vote tended to suggest that there was significant
concern regarding the additional cost and maintenance of the sub -grade parking
garage. This concern was noted and included in the report to Town Council.
B. Final Council Approval
On 5 August 2008, a final presentation of the three schemes was made to the Town
Council. Following an update on the Advisory Committee recommendations the
council voted six to one for the Neighborhood Block scheme as the preferred option.
Reasons given for the preference for the Neighborhood Block scheme ranged from
the middle density character of the scheme, the inclusion of open space, the mix of
units, and the flexibility of unit layout. Council members voiced support for the third
party certification of the project as well as for factory, off -site construction.
6
Chamonix Master Plan
4. PREFERRED OPTION
Neighborhood Block
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A. Overview
The Neighborhood Block scheme contains 58 units. The following unit mix was
proposed:
• No 1- bedroom units;
• twenty, 2- bedroom flats;
• sixteen, 2 bedroom lofts;
• eight, 3- bedroom units; and
• fourteen, 3 bedroom duplexes.
This unit mix provided for 81,696 sq. ft. of housing with a density of 16 dwelling units per
acre. A main access street, which gained access to the site from Chamonix Road,
bisected the site, with 3- bedroom duplexes on the north side and multi - family units on
the south side. An alley offers secondary access to the multi - family units. The main
Chamonix Master Plan
street passed through the development to the fire station site. While access to the fire
station was intended to be limited, this configuration allowed for dual points of access
to the site, thus alleviating internal traffic congestion.
The landscape plan located potential community gathering spots throughout the
scheme. Semi- private, stepped courtyards were located between the duplex units.
Turf areas were limited to large open spaces on the east and west ends of the
development. The open space on the east end could be utilized for such uses as a
dog park. Landscaping on the east end was kept away from the street to preserve
sightlines at the Chamonix Road /Chamonix Lane intersection. The open space on
the west end would provide a viewing area into the fire station operations. For safety
reasons, the viewing area was segregated from the fire station by a series of low,
landscaped walls.
The landscape palette utilized native trees and shrubs. Aspens were situated along
the northern edge of the site and gradually "spilled" through the spaces created by
the structures. In these stands of aspen, a native understory of grasses (Thurber's
fescue, wheatgrass and blue -wild rye) was punctuated by forbs such as columbine,
common lupine, golden banner, and strawberry. Along the southern portion of the
site, where retention ponds were intended to hold and treat storm water runoff, more
water- oriented plants took over. Blue spruce was planted densely to act as a screen
to the commercial uses to the south and 1 -70 beyond. Shrub thickets of willow and
birch filled in among the spruce.
B. Fire Station
The fire station design shown in the Neighborhood Block scheme was the consensus
-- -- - - -= alternative of Fire District staff and the
Advisory Committee. The building
foundation itself provided retention of
the steep slopes to the north of the site,
y and thereby offered the most cost-
effective site design.
8
Chamonix Master Plan
5. PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS
Following extensive analysis of both the Chamonix Parcel and the Wendy's Site, staff
determined the Official Land Use Map for the Town of Vail should be amended to reflect
the new designation of Chamonix Master Plan Area. The designation of Chamonix
Master Plan Area is harmonious with the residential and commercial uses in the
surrounding neighborhood and achieves the development goals listed above.
Both properties were rezoned to reflect the development goals of the Chamonix Master
Plan Area. The 3.6 -acre parcel commonly known as the Chamonix Parcel was rezoned
from Two - Family Primary/Secondary (P /S) zone district to Housing (H) zone district
(Ordinance No. 27, Series of 2008)and the 1.25 -acre former Wendy's Site was rezoned
from Commercial Core 3 (CC3) zone district to General Use (GU) zone district (Ordinance
No. 26, Series of 2008) on November 18, 2008.
Ultimately, the fire station itself will require the approval of a Conditional Use Permit by
the Planning and Environmental Commission (PEC) in the General Use (GU) zone district
as it is a conditional use rather than a permitted use in all zone districts.
The master plan is intended to be used as the development guide for the Chamonix
Master Plan Area. The plan identifies the location for the fire station and the employee
housing. The plan locates the highest density employee housing to the south of the lower
density employee housing. This layout ensures the greatest compatibility with the
adjacent neighbors. Locating the fire station on the southern edge of the property also
locates this more commercial type use farthest from residential development.
6. NON - PREFERRED OPTIONS
A. Neighborhood Cluster Overview
The Neighborhood Cluster scheme contained 50 units. Unit mix consisted of:
four, 1- bedroom units;
eight, 2- bedroom flats;
sixteen, 2- bedroom lofts;
fourteen, 3- bedroom units; and
eight, 3- bedroom duplexes.
9
Chamonix Master Plan
w_ ......
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s
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The unit mix provided for 68,232 sq. ft. of housing with a density of 14 dwelling units
per acre. A main access street, which gained access to the site from Chamonix
Road, passed through the site to the fire station, again offering dual points of access.
Access to the fire station was limited for safety reasons. Multi- family units were
situated off the north and south side of the access road. Drives extend to the north
off the main street to duplex units.
The landscape plan, similar to the Neighborhood Block scheme, located community
gathering spots throughout the design. These community spots utilized terraced
courtyards which were located off of internal pedestrian circulation routes. As with
the Neighborhood Block scheme, turf areas were provided on the east and west
ends of the development, connected by a pedestrian trail. The turf area on the
eastern portion could be utilized for an amenity such as a dog park, while the
western turf area offered a segregated vantage point of the fire station operations.
10
Chamonix Master Plan
B. Village Neighborhood Overview
RE I, 3 I ,•.,, �I Yule, : �
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The Village Neighborhood scheme contained 70 units. This scheme offered a
combination of lower density duplex and multifamily units and a multi -story, multi-
family structure. Unit mix consisted of:
• nine, 1 bedroom units;
• thirty -two, 2 bedroom flats;
• no 2 bedroom lofts;
• sixteen, 3 bedrooms; and
• ten, 3 bedroom duplexes.
The unit mix provided for 87,936 sq. ft. of housing with a density of 19 dwelling units per
acre, the highest density of the three schemes. The main access to the site is via
Chamonix Road. The entry road offered a traditional neighborhood lane, with duplex
units to the north and multi - family units to the south. The lane terminated in the plaza
located in the center courtyard of the multi -story, multi - family structure.
The laza was of a more urban character, with paving that allowed for pedestrian
p P 9
p
11
Chamonix Master Plan
and occasional vehicular access as needed. A raised landscaped platform in the
center offered a green gathering spot for residents. A parking structure was located
below the plaza and provided parking for the residents of the multi- storied structure.
The parking structure was accessed via a dedicated entrance off of the frontage
road. As in the previous schemes, open space was provided on the eastern and
western ends of the site, with similar possibilities for programming.
7. RECOMMENDED ACTIONS
A. Amend the Vail Land Use Plan.
• Planning and Environmental Commission recommendation on December 22,
2008
• Vail Town Council adoption, on first reading of Ordinance No. 1, Series of
2009, scheduled for January 6, 2009
B. Rezone the "Chamonix Parcel" to Housing (H) District.
• Occurred on November 18, 2008 (Ordinance No. 26, Series of 2008)
C. Rezone the "Wendy's Site" to General Use (GU) District.
• Occurred on November 18, 2008 (Ordinance No. 27, Series of 2007)
D. Complete the final Chamonix Affordable Housing Development Cost and
Revenue Analysis by Economic & Planning Systems.
i
• Draft complete on December 9, 2008
I
E. Complete a site and unit mix specific market study to determine demand for the
development, based on the pre- determined area median income target.
• Initiated Phase II of contract with Economic & Planning Systems on December
16, 2008. Anticipated completion by February 15, 2009.
8. APPENDIX
A. Neighborhood Block Site Plan
B. Chamonix Affordable Housing Development Cost and Revenue Analysis
C. Vicinity Map
12
Chamonix Master Plan
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13
Chamonix Master Plan
Appendix B
CHAMONIX AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
COST AND REVENUE ANALYSIS
Prepared for:
Town of Vail
Prepared by:
Economic & Planning Systems, Inc.
I
December 9, 2008
14
Chamonix Master Plan
TABLE O F CON TENTS
PAGE
I. Introduction ................................................................... ..............................2
ProjectBackground ............................................................. ..............................2
Scopeof EPS Analysis .......................................................... ..............................2
II. Comparative Analysis .................................................. ..............................3
Comparative Projects .......................................................... ..............................3
III. Feasibility Analysis ......................................................... ..............................9
ProjectCosts ......................................................................... ..............................9
ProjectRevenues ................................................................. .............................10
CostScenerios ..................................................................... .............................12
I
IV. Findings .......................................................................... .............................18
CostConsiderations ............................................................ .............................18
UnitSubsidy ........................................................................... .............................19
Buyer Lending Issues ........................................................... .............................20
Additional Considerations ................................................. .............................20
15
Chamonix Master Plan
LI O F TABLE
PAGE
Table 1 Total Project Costs .............................................. .............................10
Table 2 Affordability Calculation ................................... .............................11
Table 3 Subsidy at Optimal AMI Levels ......................... .............................13
Table 4 AMI Levels for Stick Build & Standard Subsidy .............................14
Table 5 AMI Levels for Modular & Standard Subsidy .. .............................15
Table 6 Incomes Required to Cover Costs of Stick Built Construction.. 16
Table 7 Incomes Required to Cover Costs of Modular Construction ...17
Table 8 Summary of Findings .......................................... .............................19
16
Chamonix Master Plan
I. INTRODUCTION
The proposed Chamonix affordable housing project site is located on Chamonix Lane in
close proximity to the West Vail interchange. The Town purchased the site several years
ago for the purpose of constructing housing. The former Wendy's site was purchased
more recently for the purpose of constructing a fire station. Collectively, the two sites
total 5.5 acres and are slated for housing and the fire station. Surrounding land uses in
the area consist of highway oriented commercial development. Further north from the
highway along Chamonix Lane, the land use pattern is composed of both single family
and multi family residential uses.
PROJECT BACKGROUND
The Town of Vail recently retained Stan Clauson Associates, Inc. to complete a site plan
and cost estimation for an affordable housing project on the Chamonix site. As part of .
the work, Clauson identified three possible development programs with varying levels of
density and building types. Clauson's work also estimated costs associated with
construction, engineering, and landscaping of the scenarios for both stick built and
modular construction. In addition, the report considered additional costs and fees
associated with achieving LEED certification. The analysis was completed in the fall
of 2008.
From this work, the Town Council identified scheme 1, Neighborhood Block, as the
favored development program. Included in this program are 58 total units with an
overall density of 16 dwelling units per acre. The project cost estimated by Stan Clauson
ranges from $16.7 to $23.3 million depending upon the building construction method. As
part of the evaluation of the project, the Town seeks to develop a full understanding of
any and all costs in addition to land costs that may occur throughout the course of the
project's implementation.
SCOPE OF EPS ANALYSIS
Economic & Planning Systems (EPS) was retained by the Town of Vail to conduct a
feasibility study of the project, building on the work done by Stan Clauson Associates.
First, EPS researched comparable projects within Summit County, the Roaring Fork Valley,
and Eagle County to identify prominent factors influencing the overall economics of a
number of projects. Second, EPS modeled potential Chamonix project revenue based
on targeted AMI levels. Project revenue was then compared to estimated costs,
including additional cost factors identified by EPS, to determine the AMI requirements
needed to provide sufficient revenue to make the project feasible.
2
Chamonix Master Plan
II. COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS
EPS compiled comparative cost information for seven projects in the Roaring Fork Valley,
Summit County, and Eagle County based on interviews with project representatives. This
section discusses the individual projects and then summarizes the relevant findings.
COMPARATIVE PROJECTS
SUMMIT COUNTY
Vic's Landing
The Vic's Landing project is located in the Town of Breckenridge across from the
Breckenridge Golf Course on Tiger Road. The project was spurred by an annexation
request by the developer, Tom Silengo, and the corresponding request for water taps.
As part of the annexation, the Town's inclusionary housing requirement was triggered.
The Town required the developer to construct 24 affordable units in exchange for
entitlements for 12 market rate units. Town contribution to the project viability was limited
to fee waivers and the entitlement of the 12 market units.
The project is evenly split between one- and two- bedroom units with target AMI levels of
80 and 100 percent. The 24 -unit project consists of six four - plexes. One - bedroom units are
priced at $185,000 and target income levels at 80 percent of AMI. Two - bedroom units
target both 80 and 100 percent of AMI and are priced at $229,500 and $285,000 per unit.
Among other standards, the deed restriction limits annual appreciation to three percent
or the increase in local AMI, dependant upon whichever measure is higher. In addition,
resales of the units are subject to income testing on the part of the buyer with a 10
percent income level tolerance.
Closings began in April of 2008. The one - bedroom units in the project are sold out.
Approximately half of the two bedroom units are sold. It should be noted that the two
bedroom units were completed later and thus have been impacted to a greater degree
by current credit restrictions. Federal Housing Administration (FHA) approval of the
project was not originally sought, although an effort on the part of the developer is
currently being made to receive approval. The approval is expected to broaden market
demand as buyer financing will become more available.
3
Chamonix Master Plan
Valley Brook
Valley Brook is a project in the final planning stages also located in the Town of
Breckenridge on northeast corner of Airport Road and Valley Brook Street. The proposed
project is being developed on a fee basis by Mercy Housing Colorado as a result of a
Town issued RFQ in November 2007. As currently proposed, the project includes 42 units
targeting income levels at 80 and 100 percent of AMI.
The project is composed of two- and three - bedroom units in two -story townhomes.
Approximately 52 percent of the units are targeted for AMI of 80 percent or less and 48
percent of the units are targeted for AMI of 100 percent or less. Units at 80 percent range
in price from $133,000 to $160,000 per unit. Prices at 100 percent range from $200,000 to
$250,000. Similar to Vic's Landing, the deed restriction limits annual appreciation to three
percent or the percent by which AMI increases.
Hard costs are currently estimated at $184 per square foot with total a total square foot
cost of $230 per square foot for hard and soft costs as well as site work. The cost
excludes land and off -site costs. Construction prices have increased approximately 10
percent from the time of that the project was initially bid. However, both the developer
and representatives from the Town expect to benefit from a downward renegotiation of
costs. The developer is charging a one -time fee equivalent to approximately four
percent of total costs, although a 10 percent fee is typically used by the developer.
The project is being developed with a high level of subsidy with contributions from town,
state, and federal sources. In total, it is estimated that grant funding will account for $4.7
million of the project's budget, or approximately 38 percent of total costs, which does
not include costs of land (which was contributed to the project by the Town). The
subsidy figure does include fee waivers by the Town. In addition, the Town may also
contribute an additional subsidy in grant funding. At this time, the subsidy per unit is
estimated at $117,000 per unit.
Roaring Fork Valley
Rodeo Place
The Town of Snowmass has recently completed the first homes in Rodeo Place, a 27 -unit
affordable housing development located near the Rodeo Grounds. The project is
located within the Town of Snowmass, approximately half the distance between the
base area and Highway 82, and is highly visible to traffic along Brush Creek Drive.
The project consists of 20 single family homes, two duplexes, and one triplex. Phase I
accounts for 15 of the 27 total units. The Town finished and closed six units in the fall of
4
Chamonix Master Plan
I
2008 and plans to have the balance of Phase I completed by the spring of 2009. The
homes are modular. Town staff noted that there have been problems coordinating the
site work and the manufacturer resulting in project delays and cost increases.
Nevertheless, the Town staff is pleased with the overall process and the quality of the
architectural design.
The Town did not established AMI targets for the prospective residents but relied on
surveys of interested households to derive home prices. Approximately 50 to 60
households with at least one full -time employee based in Snowmass expressed interest in
the project. Most of these households have maintained interest in the project since the
surveys were first distributed in mid 2007. The deed restriction, which limits appreciation
to three percent per year (among other terms), has caused some prospective
purchasers to drop out of the process. However, because housing options are limited
(particularly in Snowmass), most households have maintained their participation
throughout the development process and the pool of buyers has remained sufficiently
large to provide adequate demand.
Based on the response to surveys, homes were designed to fall into a price range
spanning from $300,000 to $550,000 per unit (which translates to an AMI of approximately
140 to more than 250 percent). The small single family homes and duplexes are priced at
$300,000, for 1,400 square feet of finished living area plus 700 square feet of basement
floor area ($214 per square foot, finished). Medium sized single family homes are priced
from $425,000 to $450,000 for 1,800 square feet, plus 900 square feet of basement area
($229 per finished square foot). The largest are priced at $550,000 for 2,150 square feet
plus 950 of basement floor area ($256 per square foot, finished). Basements were not an
optional feature, as the Town mandated that they be included in each home. The
requirement not only ensures adequate storage, but also creates additional bedroom
area to be used for sublets and /or roommates, increasing the number of employees that
can be housed locally.
The construction costs range from $210 to $225 per square foot and covers only vertical
costs. The Town absorbed costs for all on -site infrastructure improvements as well as soft
costs related to the site engineering and architectural design. While staff did not have
specific costs for these services, they estimate a 25 percent increase for these costs
resulting in a total cost of $262 to $281 per square foot. The Town had acquired the land
previously and contributed the cost of the land as a form of subsidy. Subsidies range
from $33,000 to $80,000 per unit based on an average construction cost of $271 per
square foot. The smaller units generate $300,000 of revenue while construction costs total
$380,000 (1,400 * 271), resulting in a net subsidy of $80,000. The medium sized units
required a subsidy of $50,000 and the largest units were subsidized by $33,000. The
average among all three unit types is $54,000.
5
Chamonix Master Plan
Burlingame Ranch
Burlingame Ranch is a 21.5 acre affordable housing development in the Town of Aspen
located off Highway 82 to the north of the Bar /X Ranch. The project is entirely dedicated
to affordable housing and planned to be developed over three phases and will include
a total of 236 units. To date, 91 units have been constructed on the site. Income targets
for the project range widely, although the majority of the units accommodate income
levels that range from approximately 80 to 140 percent of AMI. (Note that the Aspen
Housing Office sets its own median income and corresponding AMI levels. The targets
shown here are approximate.)
The first phase of development includes 15 one bedroom units, 30 two bedroom units, 39
three bedroom units, and 7 single - family lots. Most of the units are townhomes. In
addition to the identified income limits, residents are also required to earn a minimum of
75 percent of their yearly income within Pitkin County. The units are deed restricted to
three percent annual appreciation or the percent by which the Consumer Price Index
(CPI) increases. All 91 units included in the first phase have been sold.
An extensive audit of Phase I costs in Burlingame Ranch was completed as a result of a
brochure that was published in 2005 misstating the total cost of the project to the public.
The average sales price per unit (including lots) for the project was approximately
$230,000. Hard costs for the project averaged $170 per square foot with an average
total cost of $202 per square foot of hard and soft costs (which exclude land, off -site, and
mitigation costs). Including land and all other costs, such an off -site infrastructure,
mitigation, and community benefits, the total project cost $236 per square foot.
The project's audit indicates a per unit subsidy of $331,567, or approximately 59 percent
of the project's costs. This contrasts with an anticipated subsidy of $184,455 per unit. The
increase is largely attributable to programmatic changes made by Council as well as
shifting AMI targets to lower levels. The project costs increased by $11.7 million, resulting
in relatively high per unit subsidies.
Iron Bridge
Iron Bridge is an affordable housing development located in Garfield County between
Carbondale and Glenwood Springs. The affordable component of the project is part of
the larger 300 home development by Iron Bridge Homes, LLC. The inclusion of affordable
units in the development was a requirement of Garfield County's inclusionary housing
ordinance triggered by the developer's request for a Planned Unit Development (PUD)
density increase. A total of 30 deed restricted affordable single family units were
required. County representatives expect 24 to be completed on site and another six to
be addressed via fees -in -lieu.
6
Chamonix Master Plan
The affordable units are all comprised of 3- bedroom 2 -bath units with an average size of
1,430 square feet. The units are targeted to families earning 80 percent or less of AMI
and working in Garfield County. The units are priced at $230,000 as a result of
calculation of AMI based on a 6- person family. Garfield County has since amended
their ordinance to limit the amount of people able to be included in the AMI calculation
and maintain lower price points. The units are deed restricted to three percent annual
appreciation or the percent by which the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increases (among
other requirements).
Sales within the affordable component have been slow, as the developer has closed on
only four units However, the balance of the project is under contract and the remaining
20 units are awaiting their certificate of occupancy which has been delayed as a result
of the involvement of Lehman Brothers in the construction loan. As a result, the
completion of the units and release has been delayed several months. No County or
other public subsidy was used in the construction of the units. Developer representatives
report that their approach was to sell the units at the cost of vertical construction and
shift costs related to land, infrastructure, and soft costs to the market rate portion of the
development. Vertical construction costs are estimated range from $160 to $175 per
square foot. The project is not currently FHA approved, although the developer and
County are investigating the measures necessary to become approved.
EAGLE COUNTY
Stratton Flats
Stratton Flats is a 47 -acre housing development located in the Town of Gypsum south
of Hwy 6 on the northwest side of the Eagle County Regional Airport. The developer for
the project is Me6tage Development Group. At build -out the 339 unit project will include
152 single family homes, 118 townhomes, and 69 condominiums of which 226 will include
deed restrictions. At this time, a total of seven units have been permitted on the 47.3
acre site.
I
The affordable units target income levels at 140 percent of AMI and are evenly divided
between Town of Gypsum and Eagle County deed restrictions. The Gypsum restriction
limits income to 140 percent of AMI and requires that buyers earn 85 percent of their
income in Eagle County. The Eagle County deed restriction limits income to 140 percent
of AMI and includes a cap on annual appreciation based on the increase to the local
AMI.
Units with the less restrictive Town of Gypsum deed restriction are priced at
approximately $320,000 to $350,000 for townhomes and between $180,000 and $245,000
for condominiums. Units with the Eagle County restriction are priced at $350,000 for
single family units, $300,000 to $330,000 units for townhomes, and between $180,000 and
7
Chamonix Master Plan
$245,000 for condominiums. Market rate units range from $400,000 to $430,000 for single -
family homes and between $340,000 and $380,000 for townhomes. To date, the
developer has written 8 contracts for units in the project. The developer reported that
approximately 80 people had pursued loans without success. As a result, the developer
has pursued and recently received FHA approval, which allows for 97 percent Loan -to-
Value buyer financing.
The project was completed using modular construction at a total cost of $200 per square
foot. From the time of initially ordering the modular units through the current point in the
construction process, the developer reported a cost increase of eight percent. Within
the Gypsum deed restricted units, there is a per unit subsidy of approximately $23,000
which was provided in the form of fee waivers by the Town. Eagle County units required
higher subsidies of approximately $23,000 of waived Town of Gypsum fees plus $40,000
per unit which was provided through a $4.5 million equity investment in the project by
Eagle County in the form of a subordinated position.
Eagle Ranch Village
Eagle Ranch Village is a land development project by East -West Partners located in the
Town of Eagle off Grand Avenue on Sylvan Lake Road. The project includes
approximately 60 units which were constructed as part of the Town's inclusionary housing
ordinance and were constructed approximately five to six years ago. The affordable
units within the project are housed in four - plexes within the Sylvan Square development, j
which is part of a larger development that includes single - family houses, entitled lots, and
additional multifamily housing.
The affordable units sold for approximately $300,000 per unit as compared to market rate
units within the project that sold for approximately $350,000 per unit. Hard costs within
the project were approximately $180 per square foot for vertical construction only. Soft
costs accounted for approximately 20 percent of hard costs resulting in a total cost to
approximately $216 per foot. The developer of the affordable units reported that no
profit margin was received on the affordable units.
No income restrictions exist on the units. The deed restriction requires that residents must
live and work in Eagle County and limits annual appreciation to three percent or CPI,
although this provision is waived if the seller cannot find a buyer. The Eagle County
Housing Authority has the first right of purchase from the owner. The affordable units
were provided a development subsidy through a land donation by East -West Partners as
well as a 0.2 percent transfer fee on the market rate units. The fee is allocated by a
community housing committee to individual units. Including land and the transfer fee,
the total subsidy in Sylvan Square was approximately $50,000 per unit.
8
Chamonix Master Plan
III FEASIBILITY ANALYSIS
EPS conducted a financial analysis to provide a full indication of the costs the Town of
Vail will incur in the development of the Chamonix site. EPS analyzed potential revenues
from varying AMI levels and projected the per unit subsidies needed to finance the
project.
Project Cons
Town Council has indicated a preference for Scheme 1 of the Stan Clausen proposals
which includes 36 two - bedroom and 22 three - bedroom units for a total of 58 units. EPS
compiled the cost information provided by the consultant with line items for a developer's
fee and contingency consideration. With these factors added to the original estimate,
the total construction cost for the "stick built" Option A is $29,523,540. The cost for the
modular built Option B is $21,844,116, as shown on the following page in Table 1.
9
Chamonix Master Plan
Table 1
Total Project Costs
Chamonix Affordable Housing Costs and Revenue Analysis
Neighborhood Block
Sources $ Uses Option A Option B
Total Square Feet 81,696 81,696
Program
1 Bedroom 0 0
2 Bedroom 36 36
3 Bedroom 22 22
Subtotal 58 58
Costs Cost Factor
Engineering $848,328 $848,328
Engineering Services 7.0% 59,383 59,383
Construction 23,283,360 16,747,680
Landscaping 748,552 748,552
LEED Certification 135.420 135.420
Subtotal $25,075,043 $18,539,363
Cost per Square Foot $307 $227
Contingency
Engineering Contingency 15.0% $127,249 $127,249
Construction Contingency' 10.0% 2,328,336 1,674,768
Landscaping Contingency 15.00 112.283 112,283
Subtotal $2,567,868 $1,914,300
Fees
LEED Certification Fee 0.5% 125,375 92,697
Developer Fee 7.0% $1,755,253 $1,297.755
Subtotal $1,880,628 $1,390,452
Total Costs $29,523,540 $21,844,116
EPS additions to Stan Clauson estimate
Source: Economic & Planning Systems, Stan Clauson Associates
KAIM74W Cn.,mt Hq 4s F-ft A.*- ,m41MT -N Eq6 CaftAlraH
Project Revenues
EPS estimated appropriate sales prices based upon an Average Median Income (AMI) of
$75,000 for a household of three in Eagle County, as shown in Table 2. Target home
prices range from approximately $228,000 at 80 percent of AMI to $407,300 at 140
percent AMI.
10
Chamonix Master Plan
Table 2
Affordability Calculation
Chamonix Affordable Housing Costs and Revenue Analysis
Description Factor 80% 90 100% 110% 120% 130% 140%
Maximum Income
2 Bedroom $60,320 $67,860 $75,400 $82,940 $90,480 $98,020 $105,560
3 Bedroom $ 60,320 $ 67,860 $75,400 $82,940 $90,480 $98,020 $105,560
2 & 3 Bedroom
Housing Payment Capacity
Monthly Payment 30% $1,508 $1,697 $1,885 $2,074 $2,262 $2,451 $2,639
Less: insurance $600IYear -$50 -$50 -$50 -$50 -$50 -$50 -$50
Less: Property Taxes 0.50% -$90 100 - $110 -$120 130 140 150
Net Available for Debt Service $1,368 $1,547 $1,725 $1,904 $2,082 $2,261 $2,439
Affordability Target
Loan Amount 7% interest $205,600 $232,500 $259,300 $286,100 $312,900 $339,800 $366,600
Loan Term 30 Years 30 Years 30 Years 30 Years 30 Years 30 Years 30 Years
Down Payment 10% 10% 10% 10% 10% 10% 10%
Loan: Value Ratio 0�% 90 90% 90 90% 90% 90
Target Affordable House Price $228,400 $258,300 $288,100 $317,900 $347,700 $377,600 $407,300
Source: HUD; Economic & Planning Systems
H .11000] -Nell Gbemo„M Housing 6ita ieesibiliry AnelysisI]elej1000] -AMI Eagle CouMy.ds]PVnrAflartl
Chamonix Master Plan
COST SCENERIOS
The total amount of revenue available to the project was determined by the number of
units within the project dedicated to each income level. Total income was then
compared to the total project cost to determine the net difference. This amount
provides the basis of the estimate of subsidy per unit for the proposed Chamonix project
in three scenarios. For this analysis, the costs are based on the San Clauson report. Stick
built construction is assumed to cost $285 per square foot and modular is assumed to
cost $205 per square foot.
The field research indicates that these may be overly conservative at this time and that a
lower cost figure may be reasonable. In the analysis that follows, the original cost figures
have been maintained. It is recommended that the feasibility analysis be rerun with
lower figures after the Town has had the opportunity to review them.
The first scenario examined an optimal level of affordability with half of the units targeting
households at 80 percent of AMI and half at 100 percent AMI. The second scenario
determines the price points necessary to reach a per unit subsidy consistent with the
comparative projects in the region. The third scenario examines the per unit prices
needed for the project to break even.
In the tables that follow, Scenario A refers to stick built construction costs and Scenario B
is based on modular costs.
12
Chamonix Master Plan
OPTIMAL AMI TARGET
An optimal AMI level of 80 and 100 percent of AMI was used in this analysis. At these
levels a stick built project requires a per unit subsidy of approximately $251,000 per unit,
as shown in Table 3. Modular construction at these incomes requires a per unit subsidy
of $118,000.
Table 3
Subsidy at Optimal AN Levels
Chamonix Affordable Housing Costs and Revenue Analysis
Neighborhood Block
Revenue Sources Option A Option B
2 Bedroom Rio of Total
80% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 50% 4,111,200 4,111,200
90% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0 0
100% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 50% 5,185,800 5,185,800 I
110% AN - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0 0
120% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0 0
130% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0 0
140% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0 0
Subtotal 100% 9,297,000 9,297,000
3 Bedroom
80% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 50% 2,512,400 2,512,400
90% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0 0
100% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 50% 3,169,100 3,169,100
110% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0 0
120% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0 0
130% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0 0
140% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 00 /0 0 0
Subtotal 100% 5,681,500 5,681,500
Total Revenue $14,978,500 $14,978,500
Project ProfitlLoss
Square Feet ($178.04) ($84.04)
Unit ($250,777) ($118,373)
Total ($14,545,040) ($6,865,616)
Source: Economic & Planning Systems, Stan Clauson Associates
H1-7 -V41 C1WMIU H-9 SRI F.—Y A.�.kZ414t8S8] -P EWH Co., It-
13
Chamonix Master Plan
TYPICAL SUBSIDY
Based on the research of regional projects, a representative per unit subsidy for stick built
construction in a project with only affordable units is approximately $120,000 per unit. A
typical subsidy for modular construction is approximately $30,000 per unit.
To reach a typical stick built subsidy, the program required units to be evenly split
between 130 and 140 percent of AMI, as shown in Table 4. At these income levels, the
project could be feasible with a per unit subsidy of approximately $117,000.
Table 4
AMI Levels for Stick Build & Standard Subsidy
Chamonix Affordable Housing Costs and Revenue Analysis
Neighborhood Block
Revenue Sources Option A
2 Bedroom % of Total
80% AMI - 2 Bdrm. o% 0
90 AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0
100% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0
110% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0
120% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0
130% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 50% 6,796,800
140% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 50% 7.331,400
Subtotal 50% 14,128,200
3 Bedroom
80% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0
90% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0
100% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0
110% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0
120% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0
130% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 50% 4,153,600
140% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 500/6 4.480.300
Subtotal 50% 8,633,900
Total Revenue $22,762,100
Project Profit/Loss
Square Feet ($82.76)
Unit ($116,577)
Total ($6,761,440)
Source: Economic & Planning Systems, Stan Clauson Associates
HAIM1 -VY dnm Hp Wq SW ft AnW„4�WIM -RM E.&CouMynlRw'siuea
14
Chamonix Master Plan
Modular construction affords a greater flexibility in the program required to reach typical
subsidies. When 50 percent of units are priced for 120 percent AMI and the remaining
units are divided between 110 and 130 percent AMI, a per unit subsidy of approximately
$33,000 is needed, as shown in Table 5.
Table 5
AMI Levels for Modular & Standard Subsidy
Chamonix Affordable Housing Costs and Revenue Analysis
Neighborhood Block
Revenue Sources Option B
2 Bedroom % of Total
80% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0
90% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0
100% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0
110% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 30% 3,496,900
120% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 50% 6,258,600
130% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 20% 2,643,200
140 %o AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0
Subtotal 100% $12,398,700
3 Bedroom
80% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0
90% AN - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0
100% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0
110% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 30% 2,225,300
120% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 50% 3,824,700
130% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 20% 1,510,400
140% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0
Subtotal 100% $7,560,400
Total Revenue $19,959,100
Project Profit/Loss
Square Feet ($23.07)
Unit ($32,500)
Total ($1,885,016)
Source: Economic & Planning Systems, Stan Clauson Associates
H118B8I q .HOeiiq -AMI ft-"NRM
15
Chamonix Master Plan
MINIMAL SUBSIDY
The following hypothetical two tables test h othetical scenarios in which the Town pays the least
amount of subsidy. For stick built construction, the project requires a subsidy of $102,000
per units even if 100 percent of the units are sold at 140 percent of AMI, as shown in Table
b.
Table 6
Incomes Required to Cover Costs of Stick Built Construction
Chamonix Affordable Housing Costs and Revenue Analysis
Neighborhood Block
Revenue Sources Option A
2 Bedroom % of Total
80% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0
90% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0
100% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0
110% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0 i
120% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0
130% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0
140% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 100 0 /0 14,662,800
Subtotal 0% 14,662,800
3 Bedroom
80% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0
90% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 00 /0 0
100% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0
110% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0
120% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0
130% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0
140% AN - 3 Bdrm. 100% 8.960,600
Subtotal 0% 8,960,600
Total Revenue $23,623,400
Project Profit/Loss
Square Feet ($72.22)
Unit ($101,727)
Total ($5,900,140)
Source: Economic & Planning Systems, Stan Clauson Associates
N:%IM?.VM CM1wmhX N3%Fbft MiaM—DW.IMI- WEg%C —*M )Rwanur
16
Chamonix Master Plan
The Town could hypothetically achieve feasibility with minimal subsides using modular
construction costs, as shown in Table 7. The sales modular constructed units are cost
neutral when 40 percent and 50 percent of units are targeted for incomes of 130 and 140
percent of AMI, respectively. At these sales prices a small number of units can be
devoted to 120 percent of AML
Table 7
Incomes Required to Cover Costs of Modular Construction
Chamonix Affordable Housing Costs and Revenue Analysis
Neighborhood Block
Revenue Sources Option B
2 Bedroom Rio of Total
80% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0
90% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0
100% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 0% 0
110% AMI 2 Bdrm. 0% 0
120% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 10% 1,390,800
130% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 50% 6,796,800
140% AMI - 2 Bdrm. 40% 5,702,200
Subtotal 60% $13,889,800
3 Bedroom
80% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0
90 % AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0
100% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0
110% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 0% 0
120% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 10% 695,400
130% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 50% 4,153,600
140% AMI - 3 Bdrm. 40% 3.665,700
Subtotal 60% $8,514,700
Total Revenue $22,404,500
Project Profit/Loss
Square Feet $6.86
Unit $9,662
Total $560,384
Source: Economic & Planning Systems, Stan Clauson Associates
H: \1888] -Vei CMnwnb Hareiry, Sib FemLlYy AnalebV%�1888] -AMI Epb Caurdy.kbRmauea
17
Chamonix Master Plan
I
IV. FINDINGS
The following analysis summarizes the most prominent issues encountered in the development of
the selected affordable housing projects. Issues are organized by cost considerations, subsidy
levels, and buyer lending.
Cost Considerations
Construction costs for the projects under consideration in this report ranged from $200 to $281 per
square foot, as shown on the following page in Table 8, which summarizes the costs, revenues, and
subsidies for the projects evaluated. The construction cost data shown in the table is exclusive of
land, off site mitigation, and other considerations. The figures generally include hard costs, soft
costs, and on -site infrastructure. Results indicate frequent instances of construction costs around
$200 to $230 per square foot.
Developers experienced cost escalations ranging from 8 to 20 percent from the time an initial bid
was received to construction. However, project representatives repeatedly indicated that
downward pressure in materials costs has fallen 20 percent from 2007 to 2008. Contractors in the
planning stages are tending to renegotiate prices in light of weakening demand for construction
materials worldwide.
18
Chamonix Master Plan
Table 8
Summary of Findings
Chamonix Affordable Housing Costs and Revenue Analysis
Construction Cost
Project Planned Built Target AMI Cost Subsidy 5 Escalation Price Range
(sq. ft.) (per unit)
Summit County
Vic's Landing 24 24 80% to 100% - -- fee waivers -- $185,000 - $285,000
Mercy Housing 42 -- 80% & 100% $230 $117,000 10% $133,000 - $250,000
Roaring Fork Valley
Rodeo Ground 27 9 140%-250% $281 $300,000 - $550,000
Burlingame Ranch 91 91 80% to 140% 2 $202 $332,000 12% avg. $230,000
Iron Bridge 24 24 80 %' $202 $0 - -- $230,000
Eagle County
Stratton Flats' 226 7 140% $200 $23,000 - $40,000 8% $180,000 - $350,000
Eagle Ranch Village 60 60 livetwork in Cty. $216 $50,000 20% $300,000
' Modular units
s Majority of units in this range, AMI level based on survey
3 Based on six person household
Total cost derived by allocating 20 9 /6 of hard costs to soft costs
s Burlingame Ranch and Mercy Housing figure do not include waived fees .
Source: Economic & Planning Systems
Unit Subsidy
Subsidies take many forms in affordable housing development. The research shows a clustering of
per unit subsidies in the $20,000 to $50,000 range as well as a cluster on the upper end that spans
from $120,000 to $330,000. In all cases, these subsidy levels are on top of land costs. In each of the
case studies provided, land was provided at no cost to the affordable units, which is a minimum
threshold for pursuing an affordable housing project at this time.
Generally, the projects requiring lower subsidies benefit from market rate units that defray the land,
soft costs, developer fees, on -site infrastructure, and off -site mitigation. For example, Iron Bridge,
Stratton Flats, Vic's Landing, and Eagle Ranch Village all received indirect subsidy through the
ability of the developer to build market rate units on -site. In addition, the projects also received fee
waivers to help offset the costs of affordable units. The $23,000 to $40,000 subsidy at Stratton Fiats
includes both fee waivers as well as the benefit of a $4.5 million equity contribution from Eagle
County. The $50,000 per unit subsidy at Eagle Ranch Village includes both fee waivers proceeds
from a RETA and the value of a land contribution from the master developer.
Another way to reduce subsidies is to increase sales prices and target higher AMI levels. The
Snowmass project reflects relatively unique approach as virtually all of the units are priced at the
upper end of the affordable spectrum, reaching approximate AMI levels near (or above) 140
percent. The Town was able to reduce the subsidy to $54,000 per unit based on sales prices for
some units that exceeded $500,000. The project with the lowest required subsidy, Stratton Flats,
19
Chamonix Master Plan
reflects a combination of benefits, including on -site market rate units, modest deed restriction
terms, as well as higher AMI targets.
In projects without supporting market rate units and conventional AMI targets that reach
households earning as little as 80 percent of AMI, higher subsidies are required to cover project
costs. The proposed Valley Brook project anticipates a per unit subsidy of approximately $117,000.
Burlingame Ranch requires $332,000 per unit.
Moving forward, the Town of Vail should recognize that land subsidy alone will be insufficient for the
project unless construction costs drop and /or AMI targets are set high. The Town should carefully
consider higher AMI levels and should set them only after completing additional market analysis, as
identified below. Generally, the Town should anticipate committing additional levels of subsidy to
the project based on the research of comparative projects.
Buyer Lending Issues
Project developers repeatedly indicated that underwriting standards for residential borrowers
represent the greatest current risk to affordable housing development. Preliminary research shows
that mortgage terms require down payments of 10 to 15 percent. Many developers cited the need
to secure Federal Housing Administration approval, thus providing 97 percent loan-to -value
financing. Project representatives indicated that FHA approval was contingent upon review of the
deed covenants and in the case of the modular development (Stratton Flats) approval of building
plans, including the unit foundation.
Construction loans appear to be less of an issue than individual homebuyer loans. Representatives
from the Valley Brook project indicated a willing market for construction loans. In addition,
downward pressure on construction costs has also eased restrictions to borrowing.
Additional Considerations
Based on discussions with developers with active affordable housing projects in the region, there
are a number of critical issues that warrant consideration, in addition to the issues of costs,
revenues, and feasibility. These include:
■ Competitive Market Position - The Town should understand the market position of the site
relative to other projects within the county. Prospective home purchasers have options and
can be expected to evaluate several other opportunities before selecting a home at this
location. Documenting the market context and determining the competitive advantages
provided by this site will shed light on the profiles of buyers likely to purchase here. The analysis
will enable the Town to price its units based on the market and improve receptivity among the
segment(s) most likely to consider it.
20
Chamonix Master Plan
■ Product Alignment - Once the market position and price banding has been established, the
Town should revisit the products designed for the site. Aligning the products with the buyer
profiles is a critical step to creating a marketable project. It should be noted that most
developers attempt to provide as broad a range of products as possible, thus generating
interest from across the spectrum of prospective buyers. This approach is recommended for the
Chamonix site as well; however, the Town should identify the most profitable and saleable
product and ensure that the development program is concentrated around this unit type.
■ Market Depth by AMI Level - In addition to evaluating the market supply, as noted in the first
two bullets, the Town should consider an analysis of market demand. Using recent survey data,
the Town could understand the depth of potential demand for units by income level. The data
can be cross - tabulated by a range of factors to better understand depth of demand by type
of resident.
■ Financing Risk Mitigation - The current credit markets are substantially different from the recent
past. Accordingly, developers must take action to ensure that financing is as available under
the most flexible terms possible for future buyers. At this time, developers are seeking FHA
approval to achieve this. The Town should understand the requirements of FHA and ensure that
it is addressed from the start of the project.
i
27
Chamonix Master Plan
Appendix C
Chamonix and Wendy's Parcels
el
di `t
,:t Property , ,+
4 k
ADIML �,.s: r!9r
JU L:ul Naffed As+�st'19.2W8 raSP,eI
MEMORANDUM
TO: Planning and Environmental Commission
FROM: Community Development Department
DATE: December 22, 2008
SUBJECT: A request for final recommendations to the Vail Town Council, for the
proposed adoption of the Chamonix Master . Plan, to facilitate the
development of Employee Housing and a Fire Station on the "Chamonix
Parcel" and "Wendy's Parcel" and a final recommendation to the Vail
Town Council to amend the Vail Land Use Plan, pursuant to Section 8 -3,
Amendment Process, Vail Land Use Plan to designate the Chamonix
Master Plan area, located at 2399 North Frontage Road and 2310
Chamonix Road /Parcels A & B, re- subdivision of Tract D, Vail Das
Schone Filing 1, and setting forth details in regard thereto. (PEC080058)
Applicant: Town of Vail
Planner: Nina Timm /George Ruther
I. DESCRIPTION OF REQUEST
The applicant, Town of Vail, is requesting a final recommendation from the Town
of Vail Planning & Environmental Commission to the Vail Town Council regarding
an amendment to the Vail Land Use Plan map that would change the land use
designation for the property commonly known as "Chamonix Parcef' from
Medium Density Residential to the Chamonix Master Plan Area.
The applicant is also requesting a final recommendation from the Town of Vail
Planning & Environmental Commission to the Vail Town Council on the adoption
of the Chamonix Master Plan, a new master plan for the Town of Vail.
Additionally, the applicant is requesting to amend the text and land use
description for Tract 43 - Chamonix Parcel and create a new tract, Tract 44 -
Chamonix Fire Station in Chapter VII - Community Facilities, 1 Inventory and
Assessment of Town Owned Property, Coarse Screen of Sites, Vail Land Use
Plan
(Deletions are shown in strike th g / additions are shown in bold.)
Tract 43 - Chamonix Parcel
The 3.6 acre Chamonix Parcel has been identified for the location of a
future high density, for -sale, deed - restricted employee housing
development consisting of approximately 68 dwelling units. of a fire
station as the PFirAaFy use on the site -AMC-1 Whig& may inGlude 9theF Town Gf
Vail uses. SeGendary uses- on the site iAGl,.,_e me-di,um density
es�d�°} �a,- deuelepmer�z- FecreatioT� °gl , aromas, an ^° Wiese her A
F ' denfi
1
1
Land Use Plan depicting the aesatiea of the fUtWe uses has been prepared
as the result of a comprehensive public planning process and is included
as Appendix F of this document.
Tract 44 — West Vail Fire Station
The 1.25 acre West Vail Fire Station Parcel has been identified for the
location of a new fire station in West Vail. A Land Use Plan depicting
i on a parcel has been prepared
the location of the new fire station th c
p p
p
and is included as Appendix G of this document.
II. BACKGROUND
On January 8, 2008, the Vail Town Council established the meeting the
Chamonix Site Master Plan Advisory Committee. The Advisory Committee
consisted of two representatives from each the Town Council, Planning &
Environmental Commission and the Vail Local Housing Authority in addition to
Town Staff and neighborhood representatives. The Advisory Committee held j
numerous public meetings over a nine month period.
On March 4, 2008, the Vail Town Council affirmed the following goals pertinent to
the Chamonix Site Master Plan:
1. The site(s) should accommodate a fire station and employee housing.
2. Optimize the site for employee housing.
3. Traffic onto Chamonix Lane should be limited.
4. Rezone the property to the Housing (H) zone district.
On August 5, 2008, the Vail Town Council reviewed three potential options for
the development of for -sale deed restricted employee housing on the Chamonix
Parcel. The options included:
Option 1: Neighborhood Block
This option has an overall density of 16 dwelling units per acre or total
proposed density of 58 dwelling units. There is a mix of two and three
bedroom units in condominium and townhome type configurations. This
option received four out of ten votes from the Advisory Committee.
Option 2: Neighborhood Cluster
This option has an overall density of 14 dwelling units per acre or total
proposed density of 50 dwelling units. There is a mix of one, two, and
three bedroom units in condominium and townhome type configurations.
This option received no votes from the Advisory Committee.
Option 3: Village Neighborhood
This option has an overall density of 19 dwelling units per acre or total
proposed density of 70 dwelling units. This option also includes a parking
structure under the condominium building. There is a mix of one, two and
three bedroom units in condominium and townhome type configurations.
This option received six out of ten votes from the Advisory Committee.
2
The Advisory Committee recommended the Village Neighborhood option to the
Town Council based on the importance of providing more parking rather than
less, the importance of the additional dwelling units and the variety in unit types.
The Advisory Committee did express concern about. the potential cost increase
related to the parking structure, long -term costs of maintaining the parking
structure, and the urban feel the parking structure gave to the proposed
development.
Town Council approved the "Neighborhood Block" option with a 6 -1 vote. In
rejecting the higher density option, the Council expressed concerns about a
parking structure component included in the option and associated costs. A third
option, the Village Neighborhood, w also rejected because f the low densit
p g as � e c o y
site plan.
III. ROLES OF THE REVIEWING BOARDS
Vail Land Use Plan Amendments
Planning and Environmental Commission:
Action: The Planning and Environmental Commission is advisory to the Town
Council. The Planning and Environmental Commission shall review the proposal
and make a recommendation to the Town Council on the consistency of the
proposed amendment with applicable review criteria and the policies, goals and
objectives outlined in the Vail Land Use Plan and other applicable master plan
documents.
Design Review Board:
Action: The Design Review Board has no review authority on Land Use Plan
amendments.
Town Council:
Action: The Town Council is responsible for final approval /denial of a Vail Land
Use Plan amendment. The Town Council shall review and approve the proposal
based on the consistency of the proposed amendment with applicable review
criteria and the policies, goals and objectives outlined in the Vail Land Use Plan
and other applicable master plan documents.
IV. APPLICABLE PLANNING DOCUMENTS
Vail Land Use Plan (in part)
The Vail Land Use Plan was initiated in 1985 and adopted in 1986 by the Vail
Town Council. The main purpose of the Land Use Plan is two -fold:
1. To articulate the land use goals of the Town.
2. To serve as a guide for decision making by the Town.
3
The Vail Land Use Plan is intended to serve as a basis from which future land
use decisions may be made within the Town of Vail. The goals, as articulated
within the Land Use Plan, are meant to be used as adopted policy guidelines in
the review process for new development proposals. In conjunction with these
goals, land use categories are defined to indicate general types of land uses
which are then used to develop the Vail Land Use Map. The Land Use Plan is
not intended to be regulatory in nature, but is intended to provide a general
framework to guide decision making. Where the land use categories and zoning
conflict, existing zoning controls development on a site.
The Vail Land Use Plan contains the following goals:
1.0 General Growth/Development
1.1 Vail should continue to grow in a controlled environment,
maintaining a balance between residential, commercial and
recreational uses to serve both the visitor and the permanent
resident.
1.2 The quality of the environment including air, water and other
natural resources should be protected as the Town grows.
1.3 The quality of development should be maintained and upgraded
whenever possible.
1.4 The original theme of the old Village Core should be carried into
new development in the Village Core through continued
implementation of the Urban Design Guide Plan.
1.5 Commercial strip development of the Valley should be avoided.
1.6 Development proposals on the hillsides should be evaluated on a
case by case basis. Limited development may be permitted for
some low intensity uses in areas that are not highly visible from the
Valley floor. New projects should be carefully controlled and
developed with sensitivity to the environment.
1.7 New subdivisions should not be permitted in high geologic hazard
areas.
1.8 Recreational and public facility development on National Forest
lands may be permitted where no high hazards exist if.
a) Community objectives are met , as articulated in the
Comprehensive Plan.
b) The parcel is adjacent to the Town boundaries, with good
access.
c) The affected neighborhood can be involved in the decision-
making process.
4
1.9 National Forest land which is exchanged, sold or otherwise falls
into private ownership should remain as open space and not be
zoned for private development.
1.10 Development of Town owned lands by the Town of Vail other than
parks and open space) may be permitted where no high hazards
exist, if such development is for public use.
1.11 Town owned lands shall not be sold to a private entity, long term
leased to a private entity or converted to a private use without a
public hearing process.
1.12 Vail should accommodate most of the additional growth in existing
developed areas (infill areas).
1.13 Vail recognizes its stream tract as being a desirable land feature as
well as its potential for public use.
5.0 Residential
5.1 Additional residential rowth should continue to occur primarily in
9' P Y
existing, platted areas and as appropriate in new areas where high
hazards do not exist.
5.2 Quality time -share units should be accommodated to help keep
occupancy rates up.
5.3 Affordable employee housing should be made available through
private efforts, assisted by limited incentives, provided by the Town
of Vail with appropriate restrictions.
5.4 Residential growth should keep pace with the marketplace
demands for a full range of housing types.
5.5 The existing employee housing base should be preserved and
upgraded. Additional employee housing needs should be
accommodated at varied sites throughout the community.
Sub - section 8.3.0 of the Vail Land Use Plan outlines the amendments
procedures for proposed changes to the Plan. The amendment process is one
which is intended to assure the Plan's effectiveness with periodic updates to
reflect current thinking and changing market conditions. The process includes
amendments which may be initiated in any of the following three ways:
A. By the Community Development Department
B. By the Planning and Environmental Commission or Town Council
C. By the Private Sector
Pursuant to Sub - section 8.3.A, in part, (an application initiated by the Community
Development Department),
5
"The Community Development Department should update and revise
the Plan every three to five years, whenever possible. However, if the
plan is not updated within such time frame, this shall not jeopardize the
validity of the plan. This should include analysis of the goals and
policies, update of the forecasting model and review and revision of the
Land Use Plan map. The Community Development Department would
then make recommendation for proposed changes to the Planning and
Environmental Commission where these changes would then be
considered in a public hearing format. The Planning and Environmental
Commission would then make recommendations to the Town Council,
which would also hold a public hearing on the proposed changes. If
adopted, the changes would then become a part of the Plan."
An amendment to the Vail Land Use Plan shall be approved by the Vail Town
Council upon passage of a resolution.
V. REVIEW CRITERIA
The applicant is proposing the Land Use Plan amendment, pursuant to Section
8.3.A, Community Development Department Amendments, Vail Land Use Plan,
for the reasons listed below:
• Land Use Planning
The current land use designation of the Chamonix Parcel is Medium
Density Residential; it is defined in the Vail Land Use Plan as follows:
i
The medium density residential category includes housing which would
typically be designed as attached units with common walls. Densities in
this category would range from 3 to 14 dwelling units per buildable acre.
Additional types of uses in this category would include private function
facilities, private parking facilities and institutional /public uses such as
parks and open space, churches and fire stations.
The current designation does not provide adequate flexibility to optimize
the employee housing developed on the site. Therefore, Staff believes
that the proposed land use amendment of the Chamonix Parcel to
Chamonix Master Plan is consistent with the goals of the Town Council,
the Advisory Committee and the proposed Chamonix Master Plan.
CMP - Chamonix Master Plan Area
Included in this category are those properties which are
identified as being included in the Chamonix Master Plan
boundaries. Properties located within this land use category
shall be encouraged to develop, per the Master Plan
recommendations, as it has been found necessary in order
for Vail to remain a successful resort community. Uses and
activities for these areas are intended to encourage a safe,
convenient and pleasant resident experience. The range of
uses and activities appropriate in the Chamonix Master Plan
(CMP) land use category may include deed restricted
employee housing, private recreation facilities, private
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parking facilities, and institutional /public uses such as a fire
station and other municipal facilities to serve the needs of
residents.
The current land use designation of the Wendy's Parcel is Community
Commercial; it is defined in the Vail Land Use Plan as follows:
"This area includes activities aimed at accommodating the
overnight and short -term visitor to the area. Primary uses include
hotels, lodges, service stations, and parking structures (with
densities up to 25 dwelling units or 50 accommodation units per
buildable acre)."
The proposed land use designations do not provide the Town with the
ability to construct the new West Vail Fire Station on the site. Therefore,
Staff believes that the proposed land use plan amendment of the
Wendy's Site to Chamonix Master Plan is consistent with the goals of the
Town Council and the community.
Based on the extensive public process, the recommendation of the
Advisory Committee and the confirmation of the Town Council the
adoption of the amended Chamonix Master Plan will provide the
appropriate framework to develop the optimal employee housing and the
West Vail Fire Station.
VI. STAFF RECOMMENDATION
The Community Development Department recommends that the Planning &
Environmental Commission forwards a recommendation of approval to the Town
Council for the proposed land use map amendment and the adoption of the
Chamonix Master Plan, creating Tract 44 and amending the land use description
for Tract 43 Station in Chapter VII — Community Facilities, 1 Inventory and
Assessment of Town Owned Property, Coarse Screen of Sites, Vail Land Use
Plan, based on the reasons stated in Section V of the memorandum.
Should the Planning & Environmental choose to forward a recommendation of
approval of this request to the Vail Town Council, Staff recommends that the
Commission makes the following motion:
"The Town of Vail Planning & Environmental Commission recommends
approval to the Vail Town Council for the proposed adoption of the
Chamonix Master Plan, to facilitate the development of Employee Housing
and a Fire Station on the "Chamonix Parcel" and " Wendy's Parcel" and to
amend the Vail Land Use Plan map, pursuant to Section 8 -3, Vail Land
Use Plan to allow for a change in the land use designation for the property
commonly known as the "Chamonix Parcel' from Medium Density
Residential to the Chamonix Master Plan Area and to amend the text and
land use description for Tract 43 — Chamonix Parcel and create a new
tract, Tract 44 — Chamonix Fire Station, located at 2399 North Frontage
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Road and 2310 Chamonix Road /Parcels A & 8, re- subdivision of Tract D,
Vail Das Schone Filing 1, and setting forth details in regard thereto."
Should the Planning & Environmental choose to forward a recommendation of
approval of the request to the Vail Town Council, Staff recommends that the
Commission makes the following findings:
(1) That the amendment is consistent with the adopted goals, objectives
and policies outlined in the Vail comprehensive plan and compatible with
the development objectives of the town, and
(2) That the amendment is compatible with and suitable to adjacent uses
and appropriate for the surrounding areas, and
(3) That the amendment promotes the health, safety, morals, and general
welfare of the town and promotes the coordinated and harmonious
development of the town in a manner that conserves and enhances its
natural environment and its established character as a resort and
residential community of the highest quality (Section 12 -3 -7 Vail Town
Code -in part).
VII. ATTACHMENTS
1. Chamonix Master Plan Area Map
2. Proposed Chamonix Master Plan
8
RESOLUTION NO.3
SERIES OF 2009
A RESOLUTION DESIGNATING A PUBLIC PLACE WITHIN THE TOWN OF VAIL
FOR THE POSTING OF NOTICE FOR PUBLIC MEETINGS OF THE VAIL TOWN
COUNCIL, PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION, DESIGN REVIEW
BOARD, AND OTHER BOARDS, COMMISSIONS, AND AUTHORITIES OF THE
TOWN OF VAIL.
WHEREAS, Section 24-6-402(2)(c), C.R.S. as amended provides p o des that local public
bodies must give full and timely notice to the public of any meetings at which the adoption of
any proposed policy, position, resolution, rule, regulation, or formal action occurs at which a
majority or quorum of the body is in attendance, or is expected to be in attendance; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Vail now wishes to designate a public place within its
boundaries for the posting of such full and timely notice to the public for meetings of the Town
Council, the Planning and Environmental Commission, the Design Review Board, and other
boards, committees, and authorities of the Town.
NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved by the Town Council of the Town of Vail, Colorado:
I
I . The Town Council hereby designates the bulletin boards at the east and west
entrances of the Town of Vail Municipal Offices as the public places for the posting of full and
i
timely notice as required by Colorado law.
2. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its passage.
INTRODUCED, READ, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 6th day of January, 2009.
ATTEST: Richard D. Cleveland„ Mayor
Lorelei Donaldson, Town Clerk