HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-02-07 Agenda and Supporting Documentation Town Council Evening Meeting Agenda1.Citizen Participation (10 min.)
1.1 Citizen Participation
2.Any action as a result of executive session
3.Proclamation
3.1 Proclamation No. 1, Series 2023, The 50th Anniversary of
the National Brotherhood of Skiers in Vail
5 min.
Approve Proclamation No. 01, Series 2023.
Presenter(s): Kim Langmaid, Mayor
Background: The National Brotherhood of Skiers (NBS)
Summit began as a historic gathering in 1973 when 13 black
ski clubs across the country gathered in Aspen for what was
then called "A Happening." The member clubs unite every year
to build connections and break boundaries in the world of
winter sports. The NBS is a Snow Sports Council that has
grown to over 50 member clubs and nearly 5,000 members
that strive to identify, develop, and support athletes of color
who will win Olympic and international winter sports
competitions and introduces snowsports to youth and adults
with grass roots programs to increase participation, diversity
and inclusion in snowsports.
3.2 Proclamation No. 2, Series of 2023 Trailblazer Award
Winner for 2023
5 min.
Read Proclamation No. 2, Series of 2023 into the record.
Presenter(s): Kim Langmaid, Mayor
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
Evening Session Agenda
Town Council Chambers and virtually via Zoom.
Zoom Meeting Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_pn1_2F8LTjqy427fs0R_2Q
6:00 PM, February 7, 2023
Notes:
Times of items are approximate, subject to change, and cannot be relied upon to determine what time
Council will consider an item.
Public comment will be taken on each agenda item.
Citizen participation offers an opportunity for citizens to express opinions or ask questions regarding
town services, policies or other matters of community concern, and any items that are not on the agenda.
Please attempt to keep comments to three minutes; time limits established are to provide efficiency in
the conduct of the meeting and to allow equal opportunity for everyone wishing to speak.
Citizen Participation.pdf
Proclamation No 1, Series of 2023.pdf
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Background: The Vail Trailblazer Award Program is a civic
recognition whereby the Vail Town Council acknowledges an
individual/s that exemplifies the spirit and fortitude in making
Vail a great community through selfless contributions of time
and talent which have made a lasting impact to the
community.
4.Consent Agenda (5 min.)
4.1 Resolution No. 5, Series of 2023 IGA with Eagle County
Concerning Wildland Fire Mitigation
Approve, approve with amendments or deny Resolution No. 5,
Series of 2023
Background: In 2022 Eagle County and the Town of Vail
entered into an IGA which provided funding to Vail Fire and
Emergency Service to implement fuels treatment projects in
the unincorporated potion of Intermountain and expand the
communities curbside chipping program. In recognition of the
tireless community wide work the Town of Vail has
implemented, Eagle County would like to partner with the
Town of Vail to continue this critical work within the
community. Eagle County will provide up to $55,000 to the
Town for the continued support of the curbside chipping
program and implementation of additional fuels treatment
projects on federal and non-federal land within the CWPP
planning area.
4.2 Contract Award to Colorado Natural Heritage Program
(CNHP) for the 2023-2024 Biodiversity Study.
Authorize the Town Manager to enter into a contract, approved
by the Town Attorney, with Colorado Natural Heritage Program
(CNHP), for a 2023-2024 biodiversity study, not to exceed
$150,000.00.
Background: The Town of Vail wishes to build upon the work
conducted in 1992 in which the Town of Vail enlisted the
Colorado Natural Heritage Program to conduct a Natural
Heritage Inventory of potential conservation sites within the
Town of Vail and immediate vicinity.
4.3 Contract Award to GMV for Bus Stop Signage Upgrade
Authorize the Town Manager to enter into an agreement in a
form approved by the Town Attorney with GMV for an amount
not to exceed $150,245 for the purchase and installation of 15
LED bus stop signs.
Background: In the fall of 2021, staff worked with GMV to
upgrade its transit technology system (RideVail). During this
process a new monitoring/control software platform was
Proclamation No. 2 Series of 2023 Vail Trailblazer Award Marka Moser.pdf
TC Memo ECO IGA.docx
Resolution No. 2023 - EAGLE COUNTY WILDLAND FIRE IGA.docx
2023 IGA Vail Fire and County- PC Draft.docx
Biodiversity Contract Memo 020723.pdf
Town of Vail Proposal Final.pdf
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implemented, new hardware was installed on all buses and
new LED signs were installed at three stops (Lionshead
Village – Eastbound, Covered Bridge – Eastbound, and
Covered Bridge – Westbound) to pilot new larger format LED
signage. The remaining existing LED signs were integrated
with the new software system but no hardware improvements
were made at the time.
4.4 Contract Award to Front Range Fire Apparatus/Boise
Mobile Equipment for Purchase of a Type 3 Wildland
Urban Interface Fire Engine
Direct the Town Manager to enter into an agreement in a form
approved by the Town Attorney with Front Range Fire
Apparatus/Boise Mobile Equipment to purchase a Type 3 fire
apparatus.
Background: The purchase of a Type 3 Wildland Urban
Interface fire engine was approved in the 2023 Capital Projects
budget. This agenda item is to award a contract for this
purchase.
5.Town Manager Report (10 min.)
5.1 Council Matters Status Report
5.2 Tuesday, July 4th, 2023 Town Council Meeting moved to
Wednesday, July 5, 2023 due to the holiday.
6.Public Hearings
6.1 Ordinance No. 1, Series of 2023, Second Reading, an
Ordinance Amending Chapter 14 of Title 4 of the Vail
Town Code to Expand Acceptable Insurance Types for the
Licensing of Short-Term Rental Properties
5 min.
Approve, deny, or approve with amendments, the second
reading of Ordinance No. 1, series of 2023.
Presenter(s): Alex Jakubiec, Budget Analyst/STR Manager
Background: Since the approval of the most recent short-term
rental ordinance, significant increases in coverage have been
made to insurance policies offered by online marketplaces
such as Airbnb and VRBO. Ordinance No. 1, Series 2023
expands the acceptable types of required short-term rental
insurance to include these polices when they meet the other
minimum standards.
7.Adjournment (6:40pm estimate)
2_7_2023_Bus_Stop_Signage_Upgrade_Memo.docx
TC Type 3 Contract Staff Memo.docx
230207 Matters.docx
Ordinance No. 1, Series 2023 Memo-2nd Reading
Ordinance No. 1, Series 2023
Meeting agendas and materials can be accessed prior to meeting day on the Town of Vail website
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www.vailgov.com. All town council meetings will be streamed live by High Five Access Media and
available for public viewing as the meeting is happening. The meeting videos are also posted to High
Five Access Media website the week following meeting day, www.highfivemedia.org.
Please call 970-479-2136 for additional information. Sign language interpretation is available upon
request with 48 hour notification dial 711.
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AGENDA ITEM NO. 1.1
Item Cover Page
DATE:February 7, 2023
SUBMITTED BY:Stephanie Bibbens, Town Manager
ITEM TYPE:Citizen Participation
AGENDA SECTION:Citizen Participation (10 min.)
SUBJECT:Citizen Participation
SUGGESTED ACTION:
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT
ATTACHMENTS:
Citizen Participation.pdf
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From:Jonathan Schwartz
To:Council Dist List
Cc:Rabbi Dovid Mintz
Subject:Increased Parking fees
Date:Tuesday, January 24, 2023 8:52:57 PM
I have been attenting religious services at Chabad Vail for many years. Vail parking has provided us with two free
hours to attend services with out penalty. The free time has been changed got one hour. Wold it be possible to
resume the two hour period lfr and some mechamism to allow free parking for those attending religious services.
Thank you Jon Schjswartz
Schwartz ,Avon Colorado
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From:Laurie Pupkin
To:Council Dist List
Cc:Pup
Subject:Saturday Parking in Lionshead for JCC Congregants
Date:Tuesday, January 24, 2023 3:41:52 PM
Dear Vail Town Council,
As full time residents in the Vail valley, we have lived in Avon since 2020 and the Jewish Community Center -
Chabad of Vail helped us become integrated into our new community and is an important part of our lives. At $35
for our typical 9:30-1pm stay, the parking fee changes implemented this year have significantly impacted our ability
to attend Saturday Services. We would sincerely appreciate it if you would offer congregants 2 hours of free parking
with a ticket to validate upon exiting the parking structure like guests at the Vail Library receive. Then we would
have a peaceful experience rather than having the expense of parking on our minds. Thank you so much for your
consideration and help in this matter.
Sincerely,
Laurie and Claude Pupkin
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From:Patricia Langmaid
To:Council Dist List
Subject:Bighorn 1/18/23. 3:50pm Snowing, 21 deg not counting wind chill
Date:Wednesday, January 18, 2023 4:16:00 PM
Dear Council members,
I just saw at least a half dozen Bighorn digging for food very close to the west border of the
“parcel “
They
are in survival mode. And they need this winter range.
No need to comment, just keep these incredible animals in mind.
Patti Langmaid.
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From:David Chapin
To:Council Dist List
Subject:3 minutes
Date:Tuesday, February 7, 2023 11:12:12 AM
A very robust agenda today covering many important items.
I wanted to commend the council on your 2 recent 7-0 votes on the Evergreen and Booth
heights entitlement discussions. It was encouraging to see the unanimity. The best outcomes
for both should now be easier (maybe) and your decisions will hopefully set the stage for good
results.
Thank you to those who responded to my email regarding Merv (it was meant as a question
not a criticism) being able to use others 3 minutes of public input discussion allotment time.
Viable opinion points should be able to be expressed in 3 minutes and this is a widely
accepted standard in the majority of government municipalities. Maybe this is something this
council has allowed in other public input opportunities but I don’t think so, although I
certainly haven’t watched all the meetings. Merv’s use of that time to show flaming helicopter
crashes was disappointing to say the least. Giving people others 3 minutes I believe is a bad
practice that can lead to scenario’s like that. Now many of the local gadflies may try the same
tactic, one even asked me if I would show up tonight and give them my 3 minutes. Hopefully
this was a one time occurrence. This doesn’t just fall on the Mayor’s shoulders as anyone on
council or management could have stepped in and said hold on, unless of course this is a
policy of this council and it is now allowed. I think it’s a slippery slope that can lead to chaotic
public input. I’m sure the proponents of such policy will have reasons why it’s necessary. I
encourage you to not allow this in the future.
Very encouraged to see a robust Timber Ridge discussion occurring, keep your foot on the
gas!
Thanks for your service and commitment to the TOV!
Dave Chapin
Vail Mayor
2015-2021
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From:Stephen Connolly
To:Council Dist List
Subject:FW: letter to the editor; please publish
Date:Tuesday, February 7, 2023 8:34:10 AM
Attachments:image001.png
From: Stephen Connolly <sfcvail@hotmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, February 7, 2023 8:33 AM
To: 'letters@vaildaily.com' <letters@vaildaily.com>
Cc: 'Nate Peterson' <npeterson@vaildaily.com>
Subject: letter to the editor; please publish
Last week, a young person from Avon Elementary implored this audience to “grow more bamboo.”
(Right on Emilio! Thanks for doing something. Don’t give up the fight!)
We should also be asking the Vail Town Council to grow reusable Christmas trees.
Cut Christmas trees are the most environmentally unsound holiday traditions ever.
Grow it for how many years, using how much water on something shipped by truck for how many
miles, only to “live” in someone’s home for about two weeks.
Residents and visitors of Vail throw away 600 trees every new year.
Before you call me Grinch, walk through the Vail Christmas Tree Forest for a moment. It will grow
just west of the much needed and wanted Booth Heights housing development.
Extensive scientific research conducted on this specific herd in this specific location proves that it
only takes eight Christmas trees per 4,000 square feet of human development to protect the herd.
There is photographic evidence to prove it. (Ask
e.e.ost@comcast.net for the proof.)
A reusable forest of 1,000 trees would easily protect the sacred herd from the evil housing so
needed and desired by both the working class and the small business community of Vail.
Forests of reusable Christmas trees grow around the world. Vail’s Town Council could put its money
where its mouth has flapped for years. It would cost significantly less than 12 million dollars. No
lawyer fees either.
If Council gave the word, trees could be growing in a matter of months and ready for delivery to
families in Vail next holiday season. Think of the publicity.
The NIMBYs of this Town have spoken. So much so Council cannot hear how stupid this whole
argument of sheeps over peeps really is. It is time for the YIMBYs to speak up. Email
TownCouncil@vailgov.com and let them know that this should be about peeps not sheeps.
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And there are ways to make this about peeps AND sheeps if they just look in the right places.
Stephen Connolly
Booth Heights neighbor
Stephen Connolly
sfcvail@hotmail.com
970-376-5798 (cell)
970-476-6826 (phone and voicemail)
Looking for a great little Bed and Breakfast in Vail?
https://airbnb.com/h/vailbnb
A Superhost since 2016.
Rethink * Reduce * Reuse * Recycle
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From:Clinton Baller
To:Council Dist List
Subject:Chasing Rabbits
Date:Saturday, February 4, 2023 9:00:19 PM
Is it OK that Chasing Rabbits employs a fully armed (gun, pepper spray, etc.) security guard?
--
Clinton Baller, President Avid Payment Solutions 2820 W. Maple Rd., Suite 101BTroy, MI 48084(888) 855-8644 ext. 101 (866) 671-9773 FAX
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From:Stephen Connolly
To:Council Dist List
Subject:Peeps AND sheeps!
Date:Thursday, January 26, 2023 5:14:57 PM
Attachments:image001.png
"You must always be willing to truly consider evidence that contradicts your beliefs and admit the
possibility that you may be wrong. Intelligence isn't knowing everything, it's the ability to challenge
everything you know."
-- Author Unknown
Stephen Connolly
sfcvail@hotmail.com
970-376-5798 (cell)
970-476-6826 (phone and voicemail)
Looking for a great little Bed and Breakfast in Vail?
https://airbnb.com/h/vailbnb
A Superhost since 2016.
Rethink * Reduce * Reuse * Recycle
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AGENDA ITEM NO. 3.1
Item Cover Page
DATE:February 7, 2023
TIME:5 min.
SUBMITTED BY:Steph Johnson, Town Manager
ITEM TYPE:Proclamation
AGENDA SECTION:Proclamation
SUBJECT:Proclamation No. 1, Series 2023, The 50th Anniversary of the
National Brotherhood of Skiers in Vail
SUGGESTED ACTION:Approve Proclamation No. 01, Series 2023.
PRESENTER(S):Kim Langmaid, Mayor
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT
ATTACHMENTS:
Proclamation No 1, Series of 2023.pdf
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Proclamation No. 1, Series of 2023
RECOGNIZING AND WELCOMING THE NATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF SKIERS
GOLDEN 50TH ANNIVERSARY SUMMIT FROM FEBRUARY 4-11, 2023 IN VAIL
WHEREAS, the NBS Summit began as a historic gathering in 1973 when 13 black ski clubs
across the country gathered in Aspen for what was then called "A Happening.";
WHEREAS, the NBS, headquartered in Chicago, is a Snow Sports Council that has grown to
over 50 member clubs and nearly 5,000 members that strive to identify, develop, and support
athletes of color who will win Olympic and international winter sports competitions;
WHEREAS, the NBS introduces snowsports to youth and adults with grass roots programs to
increase participation, diversity and inclusion in snowsports;
WHEREAS, the member clubs unite every year to build connections and break boundaries in
the world of winter sports;
WHEREAS, the Golden 50th Anniversary NBS Summit in Vail also serves as the
organization’s primary fundraiser, supporting aspiring winter sports athletes and local NBS
club programs;
WHEREAS, the Golden 50th Anniversary NBS Summit in Vail is a celebration alongside Vail
Mountain’s 60th anniversary, and is the largest gathering of skiers and snowboarders in the
nation with over 1,500 members in attendance;
WHEREAS, the Golden 50th Anniversary NBS Summit in Vail is an opportunity to embrace
and celebrate and the National Brotherhood of Skiers, its mission and vision, and enjoy winter
sports in the town of Vail; and
WHEREAS, the town of Vail celebrates diversity and inclusion and athletic competition in
snowsports and welcomes alongside the National Brotherhood of Skiers, everyone who loves
winter sports to Vail;
NOW, THEREFORE, the Mayor and Vail Town Council do hereby proclaim February 4 –
11, 2023 the National Brotherhood of Skiers Golden 5Oth Anniversary Summit.
Dated this 7th day of February
Vail Town Council Attest:
________________________ _______________________
Kim Langmaid, Mayor Stephanie Bibbens, Town Clerk
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AGENDA ITEM NO. 3.2
Item Cover Page
DATE:February 7, 2023
TIME:5 min.
SUBMITTED BY:Stephanie Bibbens, Town Manager
ITEM TYPE:Proclamation
AGENDA SECTION:Proclamation
SUBJECT:Proclamation No. 2, Series of 2023 Trailblazer Award Winner for
2023
SUGGESTED ACTION:Read Proclamation No. 2, Series of 2023 into the record.
PRESENTER(S):Kim Langmaid, Mayor
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT
ATTACHMENTS:
Proclamation No. 2 Series of 2023 Vail Trailblazer Award Marka Moser.pdf
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PROCLAMATION NO. 2, SERIES OF 2023
IN RECOGNITION OF VAIL’S TRAILBLAZER AWARD RECIPIENT
MARKA MOSER
WHEREAS, the Town of Vail celebrated its 50th birthday of incorporation as a municipality
on August 23, 2016, with numerous festivities taking place, including the debut of the Vail
Trailblazer Award Program, a civic recognition whereby the Vail Town Council acknowledges an
individual/s that exemplifies the spirit and fortitude in making Vail a great community through
selfless contributions of time and talent which have made a lasting impact;
WHEREAS, Moser’s love of the mountain as well as the people led her to move her young
family to Vail in 1970 with a desire to help shape the emerging community. Her first contribution
was joining in to help the Browns, Kruegers and Nottinghams with the community rummage sale
– an effort which grew to become the hugely impactful Eagle Valley Community Fund (EVCF)
Rummage Sale. She also worked to help the tiny public school by coordinating local volunteers
to provide much needed extracurricular activities like music and P.E. and served as a
permanent substitute for its three full-time teachers;
WHEREAS, Moser contributed to early childhood efforts through her instrumental role as
president of the board for the ABC School, helping to secure its relocation, co-signing the
mortgage for the new site and investing her time to ensure its continued success in Vail;
WHEREAS, Moser gave her time to the Buddy Werner League, an affordable ski and race
program for youth, running the entire program at two different times during the 70’s and 80’s;
WHEREAS, Moser was an avid supporter of protecting Vail’s waterways, serving on the
board of the West Vail Water District in addition to being a member of the Eagle Piney Water
Protection District which worked to protect area waterways from being diverted as water
sources for Denver;
WHEREAS, Moser saw the need to tell families’ stories through her work contributing
articles and photos to the Vail Daily. Moser channeled her love of the local community into
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articles that highlighted the achievements of children beyond the playing field – earning their
Eagle Scout rank, persevering through a parent’s illness, starring in the school play or the story
of young Kerry Donovan (later Colorado Senator Donovan) who had 13 years of perfect
attendance at Eagle County Schools;
WHEREAS, Moser ensured Vail’s children had access to the arts over many decades, from
serving on the board of the Vail Valley Children’s Choral to becoming a fixture at local children’s
performances and dance recitals. She also supported the Vail Dance Festival through her
writing and photography; and
WHEREAS, Moser continued her advocacy for locals through serving on the board of the
Vail Valley Charitable Fund (VVCF) for over 20 years, supporting community members suffering
from a medical crisis or long-term illness;
NOW, THEREFORE, the Mayor and Town Council of the Town of Vail honor Marka Moser
as the eighth recipient of the Vail Trailblazer Award, she embodies the Vail pioneer spirit of
seeing a need and jumping in to find a solution, no matter how big or small the issue. A quiet but
steadfast force behind the scenes of many local initiatives, her impacts have been felt through
generations of Vail community members. This is our tribute to you Marka Moser as we extend
our sincerest appreciation for your passion and contributions to the Town of Vail, thank you for
investing your time, efforts, and energy into preserving the pristine natural beauty of Vail and
caring for its greatest asset, its people.
Dated this 7
th day of February, 2023.
Vail Town Council Attest:
Kim Langmaid, Mayor Stephanie Bibbens, Town Clerk
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AGENDA ITEM NO. 4.1
Item Cover Page
DATE:February 7, 2023
SUBMITTED BY:Mark Novak, Fire Department
ITEM TYPE:Consent Agenda
AGENDA SECTION:Consent Agenda (5 min.)
SUBJECT:Resolution No. 5, Series of 2023 IGA with Eagle County
Concerning Wildland Fire Mitigation
SUGGESTED ACTION:Approve, approve with amendments or deny Resolution No. 5, Series
of 2023
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT
ATTACHMENTS:
TC Memo ECO IGA.docx
Resolution No. 2023 - EAGLE COUNTY WILDLAND FIRE IGA.docx
2023 IGA Vail Fire and County- PC Draft.docx
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To:Town Council
From: Paul Cada, Wildland Program Manager
Date: January 18
th, 2023
Subject: Town of Vail and Eagle County Government Intergovernmental Agreement
Concerning Wildland Fire Mitigation
I.Purpose:
The purpose of this memo is to provide Council with supporting information for an
Intergovernmental Agreement between the Town of Vail and Eagle County Government for the
continued implementation of Wildfire mitigation within our community.
II.Background
The Town of Vail and Eagle County have a long standing relationship with respect to wildfire
mitigation. Over the past 20 years the two organizations have partnered on several highly
impactful wildfire mitigation projects such as the 2007/2008 Vail WUI project and the 2017 Vail
Intermountain Forest Health project. In 2022 Eagle County and the Town of Vail entered into an
IGA which provided funding to Vail Fire and Emergency Service to implement fuels treatment
projects in the unincorporated potion of Intermountain and expand the community’s curbside
chipping program. Both organizations are long standing active participants in the Eagle County
Wildfire Collaborative which has worked towards community wildfire adaptation countywide
since 2008.
III.Current Situation
Twenty of Colorado’s largest wildfires have occurred within the last twenty years. Four out of
the five largest fires in State history have occurred within the last three years. In 2021, the
Sylvan Fire burned 3,792 acres above Sylvan Lake State Park; In 2020, the Grizzly Creek Fire
burned over 32,000 acres and directly threatened several communities within Eagle County. In
2018, the Lake Christine Fire burned nearly 13,000 acres in Eagle County, destroying three
homes, and threatening hundreds more. A worrisome trendline now points to Eagle County’s
increasing vulnerability to wildfire destruction.
In response to this growing threat from uncontrolled wildfire, in 2015 the Town of Vail adopted
the “Fire Adapted Vail” strategic framework to guide efforts to create a resilient community in the
face of the growing risk from wildfire. In 2020, Vail Fire and Emergency Services completed a
Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) that expands upon the strategic framework by
establishing five main community goals - reduce the risk of a Wildland Urban Disaster within the
Town of Vail; decrease the probability of landscape scale high severity wildfire events; build
business community resiliency to wildfire disasters; foster citizen engagement and
preparedness; and support the utilization of forest products
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Town of Vail Page 2
Since 2015, Vail Fire and Emergency Services has implemented over 175 acres of fuel
reduction and the Town of Vail has spent in excess of $3.3 million dollars on wildfire risk
reduction staffing and projects.
Vail Fire and Emergency Services has completed over 415 tons of community chipping at no-
cost to residents in unincorporated West Vail and has completed more than 65 acres of fuels
reduction work in the same area.
In recognition of the tireless community wide work the Town of Vail has implemented, Eagle
County would like to partner with the Town of Vail to continue this critical work within the
community. Eagle County will provide up to $55,000 to the Town for the continued support of
the curbside chipping program and implementation of additional fuels treatment projects on
federal and non-federal land within the CWPP planning area. These funds will aid the
department in the continued rapid implementation of the CWPP. Eagle County will also engage
with VFES to conduct RealFire property assessments within the Town of Vail which provide
property owners within depth evaluations of their wildfire risk. The RealFire assessments are
tailored to expand upon the information that is being provided in the curbside wildfire hazard
evaluation program currently be provided to all properties in the community.
IV.Staff Recommendation
Approve the attached Intergovernmental Agreement between the Town of Vail and Eagle
County for implementation during the 2023 field season.
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RESOLUTION NO. 5
Series of 2023
A RESOLUTION OF THE VAIL TOWN COUNCIL APPROVING AN
INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE TOWN OF VAIL AND EAGLE
COUNTY, COLORADO CONCERNING THE WILDLAND FIRE MITIGATION
PROGRAM
WHEREAS, the Town and Eagle County Colorado wish to enter into an
Intergovernmental Agreement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated
herein by this reference, (the “IGA”) concerning the continued implementation of the
Wildland Fire Mitigation Program.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE
TOWN OF VAIL, COLORADO THAT:
Section 1.The Town Council hereby approves the IGA in substantially the same
form as attached hereto as Exhibit A,and in a form approved by the Town Attorney, and
authorizes the Town Manager to execute the IGA on behalf of the Town.
Section 2.This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon its passage.
INTRODUCED, PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Town
Council of the Town of Vail held this 7th day of February 2023.
_________________________
Kim Langmaid, Town Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________
Stephanie Bibbens, Town Clerk
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INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT
BETWEEN
TOWN OF VAIL AND EAGLE COUNTY, COLORADO
CONCERNING WILDLAND FIRE MITIGATION PROGRAM
THIS INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT (“Agreement”) is entered into by and
between Town of Vail (hereinafter “Vail”), and Eagle County, a body corporate and politic of the
state of Colorado (hereinafter “County”). Collectively Vail and County shall be referred to as the
“Parties” and singularly as “Party”. This Agreement is entered into and is effective on
_______________.
RECITALS
WHEREAS, C.R.S. § 29-20-101 et.seq.encourages intergovernmental agreements through which
local governments cooperate and participate in joint projects; and
WHEREAS, The Town of Vail is taking proactive steps to become “Fire Adapted” and recognizes
that an uncontrolled wildland fire could impact the town in the future. To that end, Vail Fire and
Emergency Services has developed a successful Wildland Fire Program (hereinafter the “WFP”)
and is in the process of implementing a Community Wildfire Protection Plan (hereinafter the
“CWPP”) in order to provide for the safety of the Town of Vail before, during and after a wildland
fire incident; and
WHEREAS, the Vail Fire and Emergency Services WFP modules work in many capacities to
fulfill this mission including; fuels management projects, community assessments, wildland fire
suppression, community chipping, and prescribed fire operations; and
WHEREAS, the County desires to provide funds and the Parties desire to accept the roles and
responsibilities set forth in this Agreement in order to support these endeavors; and
WHEREAS, this Agreement is authorized by and entered into pursuant to the authority of local
governments of the state of Colorado to contract with one another. C.R.S. § 29-1-203 and Article
XIV, Section 18 of the Colorado Constitution.
AGREEMENT
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual rights and obligations as set forth below, the
Parties agree as follows:
1. PURPOSE
1.1.Twenty of Colorado’s largest wildfires have occurred within the last twenty years. Four
out of the five largest fires in State history have occurred within the last five years. In
2021, the Sylvan Fire burned 3,792 acres above Sylvan Lake State Park; In 2020, the
Grizzly Creek Fire burned over 32,000 acres and directly threatened several communities
within Eagle County. In 2018, the Lake Christine Fire burned nearly 13,000 acres in Eagle
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County, destroying three homes, and threatening hundreds more. A worrisome trendline
now points to Eagle County’s increasing vulnerability to wildfire destruction.
1.2.In response to this growing threat from uncontrolled wildfire, in 2015 the Town of Vail
adopted the “Fire Adapted Vail” strategic framework to guide efforts to create a resilient
community in the face of the growing risk from wildfire. In 2020, Vail Fire and Emergency
Services completed a Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) that expands upon
the strategic framework by establishing five main community goals - reduce the risk of a
Wildland Urban Disaster within the Town of Vail; decrease the probability of landscape
scale high severity wildfire events; build business community resiliency to wildfire
disasters; foster citizen engagement and preparedness; and support the utilization of forest
products
1.3.Since 2015, Vail Fire and Emergency Services has implemented over 175 acres of fuel
reduction and the Town of Vail has spent in excess of $3.3 million dollars on wildfire risk
reduction staffing and projects.
1.4.Since 2007, Vail Fire and Emergency Services has completed over 415 tons of community
chipping at no-cost to residents in unincorporated West Vail and completed more than 65
acres of fuels reduction work adjacent to homes in unincorporated West Vail.
1.5.The purpose of this Agreement is formalizing each Party’s obligations as partners in the
Vail Fire Wildfire Fire Program.
2. PROJECT FUNDING
2.1.Eagle County will provide reimbursement to the Town of Vail for the wildfire mitigation
project work identified as Activities A through C, as identified in Exhibit A, in an amount
not to exceed fifty five thousand dollars ($55,000) as reimbursement from Eagle County.
Invoices shall be paid annually as submitted to the County and shall include detail as
articulated in Exhibit A.
2.2.Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, County shall have
no obligations under this Agreement after, nor shall any payments be made to Vail Fire in
respect of any period after December 31 of any year, without an appropriation therefor by
County in accordance with a budget adopted by the Board of County Commissioners in
compliance with Article 25, title 30 of the Colorado Revised Statutes, the Local
Government Budget Law (C.R.S. 29-1-101 et. seq.) and the TABOR Amendment
(Colorado Constitution, Article X, Sec. 20).
3. ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
3.1. Eagle County
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3.1.1. Liaise with Wildland Program Manager, WFP Crew Lead(s), and Fire Chief on
wildfire risk reduction matters as appropriate.
3.1.2. Eagle County in the role of the REALFire® Local Program Administrator will
schedule and coordinate local assessments within Eagle County; maintenance of
completed assessment data in the REALFire® database; obtaining property owner
liability waivers; conducting quality assurance audits, and reviewing final reports
prior to issuance. Issue mitigation recognition certificates to properties that have
successfully completed all previous program mitigation requirements.
3.1.3. Share networking updates and/or contact information with the Wildland Program
Manager, WFP Crew Lead(s), and Fire Chief as appropriate for organizations and
entities inside of Eagle County that are interested in wildfire mitigation projects and
programs, including (but not limited to):
3.1.3.1.Fuel-break construction and fuel-reduction projects
3.1.3.2.Community chipping days
3.1.3.3.Prescribed fire projects
3.1.3.4.REALFire® home and property assessments
3.1.3.5.Eagle County Wildfire Assistance
3.1.3.6.Education and outreach
3.1.4. Identify and collaborate with Vail Fire and Emergency Services on grant funding
opportunities for wildfire mitigation and recovery programs/projects within Eagle
County.
3.1.5. Identify and collaborate with Vail Fire and Emergency Services on local training
and outreach opportunities to further increase awareness of wildfire mitigation and
intended risk reduction outcomes.
3.2.Vail Fire
3.2.1. Wildland Program Manager
3.2.1.1.Oversee the implementation of programs and projects within the Vail Fire
and Emergency Services service area as identified in Exhibit A.
3.2.1.2.Provide local support to Eagle County to assist in scheduling and/or
conducting REALFire® property assessments as time and funds allow.
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3.2.1.3.Identify and collaborate with Eagle County on grant funding opportunities
for wildfire mitigation within Eagle County.
4.INDEMNIFICATION, INSURANCE AND GOVERNMENTAL IMMUNITY
4.1 To the extent permitted by law, each Party shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the
other including its, agents, officers, servants and employees of and from any and all loss, costs,
damage, injury, liability, claims, liens demands, action and causes of action whatsoever, including
attorney fees, arising out of or related to its negligent acts or omissions.
4.2 Vail Fire and Emergency Services shall provide its own public liability, property damage,
and errors and omissions insurance coverage as County may deem adequate and necessary for any
potential liability arising from this Agreement.
4.3 Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to waive, limit, or otherwise modify any
governmental immunity that may be available by law to either Party, its officials, employees,
contractors,' or agents, or any other person acting on behalf of either Party and, in particular,
governmental immunity afforded or available pursuant to the Colorado Governmental Immunity
Act, Title 24, Article 10, Part 1 of the Colorado Revised Statutes.
5.TERM AND TERMINATION
5.1 The term of this Agreement shall commence on the effective date and shall terminate
twelve months from the effective date unless the Agreement is extended by all Parties prior to that
end date.
5.2 If any Party fails to substantially perform the duties and obligations in accordance herewith,
the other Party may terminate this Agreement upon seven (7) days written notice to that Party,
unless that Party cures the breach within the seven (7) day remedy period. Either Party may
terminate this Agreement without cause upon thirty (30) days written notice.
6. MISCELLANEOUS
6.1 Notices. All notices, bills and payments shall be made in writing and may be given by
personal delivery or by mail. Notices, bills, payments sent by mail should be addressed as follows:
Eagle County Government:
Eric Lovgren
500 Broadway PO Box 850
Eagle, CO 81631
eric.lovgren@eaglecounty.us
970-328-8742
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5
With copy to
Eagle County Attorney’s Office
500 Broadway PO Box 850
Eagle, CO 81631
atty@eaglecounty.us
970-328-8685
Town of Vail:
Vail Fire and Emergency Services
Paul Cada
2399 N. Frontage Rd W.
Vail, CO 81657
6.2 Modification. This Agreement contains the entire agreement between the Parties, and no
agreement shall be effective to change, modify, or terminate in whole or in part unless such
agreement is in writing and duly signed by the Party against whom enforcement of such change,
modification, or termination is sought.
6.3 No Third Party Beneficiaries. Nothing contained in this Agreement is intended to or shall
create a contractual relationship with, cause of action in favor of, or claim for relief for, any third
party, including any agent, subconsultant or sub-contractor of the Parties. Absolutely no third
party beneficiaries are intended by this Agreement.
6.4 No Assignment. Neither Party shall assign this Agreement without the prior written
consent of the other. Either Party may terminate this Agreement if the other assigns this
Agreement without the prior written consent of the other.
6.5 Jurisdiction and Venue. This Agreement shall be interpreted in accordance with the laws
of the state of Colorado and the Parties agree to submit to the jurisdiction of the courts thereof.
Venue shall be in the Eagle County District Court.
6.6 Invalidity. Invalidity or unenforceability of any provision of this Agreement shall not
affect the other provisions hereof, and this Agreement shall be construed as if such invalid or
unenforceable provision was omitted.
6.7 Compliance With Law. Each Party shall comply with all applicable federal, state and
local rules, regulations and laws.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each Party, by signature below of its authorized representative,
hereby acknowledges that it has read this Agreement, understands it and agrees to be bound by its
terms and conditions.
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COUNTY OF EAGLE, STATE OF COLORADO,
By and Through Its BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS
By:______________________________
Jeanne McQueeny, Chair
ATTEST:
By: ______________________________
Regina O’Brien
Clerk to the Board
TOWN OF VAIL, COLORADO
By: ________________________
Russell Forrest, Town Manager
ATTEST:
By:________________________
Stephanie Bibbens, Town Clerk
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Exhibit A: Scope of Work and Annual Work Plan for 2023
The Town of Vail agrees to implement the following items in the 2023 calendar year. Eagle
County agrees to fund Activities A through C as set forth below. Upon completion of the agreed
upon actions Town of Vail will submit a summary of activity and invoice to Eagle County.
Activity A:
Complete fuels reduction treatments identified and under agreement on USFS managed land in
the Vail CWPP area. Cutting and piling of 5 acres of hazardous fuels mitigation in the
Intermountain, Davos and/or Booth Creek project sites.
Eagle County Allocated Funding: Up to $15,000
Activity B:
Support for the Vail Community-wide Curbside Chipping program within the Vail Fire Service
area.
Eagle County Allocated Funding: 50% of total project costs up to a max of $10,000
Activity C:
Hazardous fuels reduction work on non-federal land. Vail Fire’s wildland crew will implement
hazardous fuels reduction work on private and Town of Vail owned land. Focus will be
completion of Elliott Ranch Private Lots, Main Gore Drive (TOV) and Bald Mountain Rd (TOV
and Private). Crew will assist private property owners participating in the private lots projects
with felling non-technical trees, limbing, piling slash, and burning slash piles. A minimum of 8
acres of treatment will be accomplished in activity C.
Eagle County Allocated Funding: Up to $30,000
Activity D::
The Town of Vail will engage Vail Fire to assist in the completion of Real Fire assessments
within the Vail Fire service area. Eagle County will provide administrative oversight, training and
access to systems and Vail Fire will provide staffing to conduct assessments.
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AGENDA ITEM NO. 4.2
Item Cover Page
DATE:February 7, 2023
SUBMITTED BY:Stephanie Bibbens, Town Manager
ITEM TYPE:Consent Agenda
AGENDA SECTION:Consent Agenda (5 min.)
SUBJECT:Contract Award to Colorado Natural Heritage Program (CNHP)
for the 2023-2024 Biodiversity Study.
SUGGESTED ACTION:Authorize the Town Manager to enter into a contract, approved by the
Town Attorney, with Colorado Natural Heritage Program (CNHP), for
a 2023-2024 biodiversity study, not to exceed $150,000.00.
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT
ATTACHMENTS:
Biodiversity Contract Memo 020723.pdf
Town of Vail Proposal Final.pdf
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To: Vail Town Council
From: Environmental Sustainability Department
Date: February 7,2023
Subject: Contract Award for the Biodiversity Study, Comprehensive Open Lands Plan
I. Purpose
The purpose of this memorandum is to request the Vail Town Council authorize the Town
Manager to enter into a contract with the Colorado Natural Heritage Program, Colorado State
University for a biodiversity study 2023-2024.
II. Background
In accordance with the Town of Vail’s Comprehensive Open Lands Plan Update, 2018, staff has
released a Request for Proposals toward completion of the following Action:
Management of Lands for Biodiversity:
At its most basic level, biodiversity refers to the variety of plant and animal species found in a
particular habitat. All plant and animal life is interconnected and ultimately dependent on one
another. A habitat with healthy, diverse and vibrant biodiversity is essential to how an
ecosystem functions with respect to cycling of nutrients and water, soil formation and retention,
resistance to invasive species and the pollination of plants. Healthy biodiversity will benefit plant
and animal life. The protection and preservation of the natural environment and wildlife
resources of Vail’s open space lands is a high priority of the community. The Town’s open
space lands could benefit from management programs designed to improve biodiversity.
During the preparation of the ’94 Plan the Town engaged the Colorado Natural Heritage
Program to complete a Natural Heritage Inventory of the Town of Vail. The goal of this study
was to identify “the localities of rare, threatened, or endangered species and the locations of
significant natural communities.” This effort evaluated thirteen parcels in and around Vail and
the findings of this inventory provided a basis for some the recommended Action Items in the
original 1994 Comprehensive Open Lands Plan. While the ’94 Plan provided valuable
information on the natural resources found on open lands in and around Vail, a current
evaluation or inventory of existing conditions and the relative health of these resources should
be completed as a first step to preparing a management plan for Town open spaces.
Understanding the natural landscape and vegetation, habitat sub-types, hydrologic systems,
wildlife resources and other characteristics found on these lands is critical to establishing a
“baseline” of existing conditions. This effort should be completed by an ecological-oriented
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Town of Vail Page 2
consulting firm or university program and the scope of this effort may include land beyond Town
Boundaries and include lands not owned by the Town.
The Town of Vail wishes to build upon the work conducted in 1992 in which the Town of Vail
enlisted the Colorado Natural Heritage Program to conduct a Natural Heritage Inventory of
potential conservation sites within the Town of Vail and immediate vicinity. The goal of the
inventory was to systematically identify the localities of rare, threatened, or endangered species
and the locations of significant natural communities (as represented by plant associations).
This project may build upon this original information from the Colorado Natural Heritage
Program inventory for Vail and the later inventory of Eagle County), as well as the Watershed
Biodiversity Study in the Roaring Fork Valley with a more granular focus on species and species
of concern in Vail. It is possible for funds to be spent on study sites outside of the immediate
jurisdiction of Vail if needed, in either Phase I or Phase II to be determined.
The primary need is for data to direct management of town-owned properties so that the value
of habitats and the species occurring therein may be enhanced and maintained.
Inventory and assessment needs:
• Species of concern including but not limited to (elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, black
bear, beaver, moose, etc.
• Vegetation: relative forage quality and availability, quantity and abundance of native
species
• Alpine habitats and species to be included if time and budget allow or as part of Phase II
The inventory will be conducted through a combination of field work, GIS aerial maps and data
layers, gathering existing information including Colorado Parks and Wildlife habitat zones as
appropriate.
Outcomes:
I. Final Inventory and Report – Identification of lands of critical concern and
recommendations for a management plan for the enhancement of biodiversity.
II. Biodiversity Policy – recommendation to the Vail Town Council for adoption: data
from this updated study will serve the development and adoption of such a policy by
providing an updated picture of biodiversity value, documenting and institutionalizing
that, and communicating those values to citizens and landowners.
III. Education - the final report, inventory, and management plan will serve to support
existing and future education and outreach programs for the community on the
importance of biodiversity and protection of essential habitats.
III. Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends the Vail Town Council authorize the Town Manager to enter into a contract in
with the Colorado Natural Heritage Program (CNHP) in an amount not to exceed $150,000 and
in a form approved by the Town Attorney to complete the biodiversity study in accordance with
the Scope of Work (Attachment A).
IV. Attachments
A. Proposal
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A. Cover Letter
Knowledge to Go Places
January 10, 2023Town of Vail
75 South Frontage Road
Vail, Colorado 81657
Dear Ms. Bertuglia
The Colorado Natural Heritage Program (CNHP) is a nonprofit organization and is a sponsored
program of the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University. We are also a
member of the NatureServe Network, an international network of partners that use the same
scientific methodology to enable scientists to monitor the status of species and natural plant
communities from state, national, and global perspectives. A list of CNHP personnel that will work
on this project and list of references for CNHP can be found in Appendix 2.
CNHP is Colorado’s key source of information on our natural heritage, which is the nature we have
inherited as residents of Colorado. We know that nature is worth a great deal to us, and that our
quality of life depends heavily on the condition and diversity of the environment around us. After all,
it is the current high quality of our natural world that has made Colorado such a desirable place to
live! At CNHP, we keep track of the places we know are tremendously important for conserving our
biological wealth, and we do this to ensure Colorado remains a great place to live. We map
Colorado’s rarest animals, plants, and ecosystems, and through this work identify the conservation
priorities that lead to the best opportunities for safeguarding our biological heritage. Our partners
throughout Colorado and beyond (see Appendix 1) count on us to help answer very difficult
questions about how conservation can be successful, and our staff of 24 scientists is available to help
answer these questions.
CNHP has completed past research within the Town of Vail, completing a natural heritage inventory
of the Town in 1992 that provided a basis for some of the actions recommended in the original 1994
Comprehensive Open Lands Plan. CNHPs past work in Vail and on the Roaring Fork biodiversity
study positions us to successfully perform the work proposed in this request. The information form
CNHPs past research and the methodologies used in the Roaring Fork study are available to the
CNHP personal working on this project and will be an invaluable resource in organizing the research
required to accomplish the objectives of the currently proposed study.
Sincerely,
John Sovell
Colorado Natural Heritage Program
College of Natural Resources
254 General Services Building
Fort Collins, Colorado 80523-6021
(970) 491-1309
FAX: (970) 491-3349
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B. Professional background information
CNHP tracks and ranks Colorado's rare and imperiled plant and wildlife species and habitats, and
provides information and expertise on these topics to promote the conservation of Colorado's
valuable biological resources. The Colorado Natural Heritage Program was created in 1979 (then
known as the Colorado Natural Features Inventory) to identify and describe areas of statewide and
global conservation significance, and to educate decision makers regarding the impacts of various
land use options. We currently have a staff of botanists, ecologists, zoologists, spatial analysts,
database developers, and conservation planners. CNHP offers a wide range of services including
biological monitoring and research, mapping, and conservation planning services.
CNHP is a scientific organization. We hold objectivity as our defining core principle. We believe that
the best way to make decisions about conservation is to start with science and data and use them to
support an objective rational process of setting conservation priorities, strategies, and plans. We
believe that communication is fundamental to bringing science to the entire stakeholder community.
We believe that communication must be followed by a genuine spirit of helping people and working
closely with them to help solve their problems. We believe that trust and respect are earned, and we
are committed to earning them from the relationships we have with our partners across the entire
conservation community.
The completion of this project will require the work of numerous CNHP fulltime employees
including biologists, conservation planners, and information managers. In addition, CNHP interns,
seasonal hires, and potentially volunteers may assist the lead scientist conducting the field collection
of data on the plants, wildlife, and plant communities of the project area. John Sovell will be the
principal investigator leading this effort at CNHP. Mr. Sovell has worked at CNHP for over 20 years
and has been the lead researcher on numerous projects similar to this undertaking. A more detailed
biography of Mr. Sovell can be found in Section E of this proposal.
C. Description of Experience
CNHP’s scientists, conservation planners, and information managers have led countless
environmental assessments, biological surveys, and conservation planning efforts across Colorado
for almost 30 years, working with hundreds of partners from government agencies (local, state,
federal), non-governmental organizations, private landowners, and other stakeholders (Appendix 1).
We have expertise in all aspects of biodiversity conservation relevant to this project, as specified
below (including recent, relevant examples):
• Inventory for rare and imperiled plants, vertebrate and invertebrate animals, and natural
communities such as wetlands and fens
o Survey of Critical Biological Resources Jefferson County Open Space 2020-2022
(current research and reporting is ongoing; a report of the 2010 – 2011 survey can be
found here),
o Biodiversity Survey and Conservation Science Planning for Fishers Peak
Conservation Area (now Fishers Peak State Park) 2019-2022,
o Biological Survey of Golden Open Space Property Jefferson County, Colorado 2021,
o Wetland Mapping, Vegetation Survey and Ecological Condition Assessment, Boulder
County Phase I and Phase II (2020-2021)
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o Assessment of Critical Urban Wetlands in the City of Aurora, Colorado 2019, and
o Survey of Critical Biological Resources in Lake County, CO 2019.
• Characterization and condition assessments for terrestrial and aquatic ecological systems,
including forests and shrublands, grasslands, wetlands and riparian systems
o Colorado Wetland Information Center – a website for Colorado wetlands with tools
and resources for wetland education, assessment, CO wetland descriptions, plant
guides, data, work in wetlands, and publications by CNHP
o Roaring Fork Watershed Biodiversity and Connectivity Study, analysis of habitat
quality and conservation/restoration priorities for mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep using
field research and spatial analysis, with in-depth stakeholder collaboration component
o State of Colorado’s Biodiversity – in depth analysis of conservation status, threats,
and urgency of action for 244 species and 18 ecological systems across the state
• Species life history research and multi-year monitoring, including habitat needs, ecology,
disease, and other threats
o Federally listed, Candidate, and other at-risk species (eg: Preble’s meadow jumping
mouse, Pawnee montane skipper, boreal toad, northern leopard frog, bats, Ute Ladies’
Tresses, and Colorado butterfly plant)
• Conservation plans for species and ecological systems, including, assessment of relative
imperilment and importance for biological resources; threats and threat abatement,
opportunities, and constraints in physical, ecological, and social contexts; stakeholder
priorities
o Colorado’s State Wildlife Action Plans (2006, 2015), as lead partner with CPW, with
in-depth stakeholder collaboration component, and
o Fisher’s Peak State Park Open Standards for Conservation, multi-partner planning for
biodiversity conservation and recreation development, co-led with The Nature
Conservancy, with CPW with in-depth stakeholder collaboration component.
o Conservation plan and agreement for Preble’s Meadow Jumping Mouse at the U.S.
Air Force Academy
o Indigenous species management strategies for Lost Creek and Mt. Evans Wilderness
Areas
• Database development / management, spatial analysis, and mapping
o Statewide database for biodiversity conservation data, including species locations,
ecological systems mapping, and field-based information on condition, threats, and
protection/management needs
o Landscape permeability and connectivity analyses
o Conservation optimization analyses
o Climate scenario assessments at state and regional scales
o Distribution and habitat quality modeling
o CODEX: a web-based interactive map viewer that includes a set of tools to support
conservation planning, environmental review, evaluation of conservation portfolios,
education, and
o COMaP: the Colorado Ownership, Management and Protection database, the state’s
premier map of protected lands featuring over 28,000 entries of protected land
polygons from over 300 different data sources.
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C. References
Tom Cardamone
Executive Director
Watershed Biodiversity Initiative
Basalt, Colorado
tomcardamone.co@gmail.com
(970) 379-0185
Drew Rayburn
Director of Conservation Science
The Nature Conservancy in Colorado
Boulder, Colorado
Drew.rayburn@tnc.org
(530) 723-3233
D. Description of the approach to the project
Survey Methods
CNHP will conduct field surveys for rare plant, wildlife, and plant community occurrences in the
Town of Vail. One previous survey of the Town has been conducted by CNHP. This survey resulted
in information on the quality and quantity of critical biological resources in the Town of Vail.
Additional studies on these areas and areas previously not surveyed will be completed, providing
current information on biological resources.
The basic survey will include:
1) A target list of known elements to update and potential new sites for survey prioritized with
input from the Town of Vail staff;
2) Updates to new and existing Element Occurrence Records (EORs);
3) Data on quality and the condition of element occurrences and their habitat; and
4) Updates for new and existing Potential Conservation Areas (PCAs) as appropriate with the
information gleaned from the information collected as part of this project.
Surveys will be augmented to address individual species of concern, potentially including small
riparian species, beaver, mink, ermine, macroinvertebrates, migratory birds, elk, mule deer, bighorn
sheep, black bear, beaver, moose, and more. Vegetation will be assessed to determine relative habitat
quality for a select number of big game species, to be identified in collaboration with the City of
Vail. Habitat quality assessments will be based on forage availability, quantity and abundance of
preferred native species following methods developed for the Roaring Fork Watershed.1
The final deliverable will consist of a written report comparable to the report prepared in 1994 and
similar to the City of Aurora report that also includes management recommendations for maintain
and/or improving quality of wildlife and plant populations and the habitat they depend on. Spatial
data from the field survey will consist of all CNHP Potential Conservation Areas, CNHP Element
Occurrence locations provided at Level 1 precision (most precise) for internal use only and at Level 3
precision (generalized) for public use/display, and habitat quality for select big game species at scale
to be determined
1https://cnhp.colostate.edu/download/documents/2022/RoaringForkBiodiversityConnectivityStudy_FinalReport_SE
PTEMBER2022.pdf
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Collect Available Information
CNHP databases will be reviewed for information regarding the known locations of species and
significant plant associations within the Town of Vail. Additionally, a variety of information sources
will be searched for plant and animal data. Collections will be searched at Colorado State University,
University of Colorado, University of Wyoming, Denver Botanical Garden, Colorado College and
local private collections. Both general and specific literature sources will be incorporated into CNHP
databases, either in the form of locational information or as biological data pertaining to a species in
general. Other information will be gathered to help locate additional occurrences of natural heritage
elements. Such information covers basic species and community biology including range, habitat,
phenology (reproductive timing), food sources, and substrates.
Identify Targeted Inventory Areas
Survey sites will be chosen based on their likelihood of harboring wildlife and priority ecosystems
and plants. Previously documented locations of species as well as relatively unfragmented land will
be targeted for survey efforts. Areas with potentially high natural values will be selected using
vegetation surveys; aerial photos (color‐infrared and natural color); personal recommendations from
knowledgeable Open Space employees, local residents, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife staff and
databases.
Conduct Field Surveys and Gather Data
Public natural areas will be visited at the appropriate time as dictated by the seasonal occurrence (or
phenology) of the individual species or as landowners allow. It is essential that surveys take place
during a time when the targeted species are detectable. For instance, plants are often not identifiable
without flowers or fruit that are only present during certain times of the year or breeding birds cannot
be surveyed outside of the breeding season, because they are most visible in breeding plumage and
are easier to spot when singing to attract mates. The methods used in the surveys will vary depending
on whether wildlife, plants, wetlands or terrestrial habitat are being surveyed. In most cases, the
appropriate habitats will be visually searched in a systematic fashion that will attempt to cover the
area as thoroughly as possible in the given time.
Animal data collection
• Amphibians: visual observation, vocal surveys and capture using aquatic dip nets
(Hammerson 1999),
• Birds: visual observation or identification by song or call (Andrews and Righter
1992, Kingery 1998, National Geographic Society 2006),
• Invertebrates: sweep netting (Scott 1986, Dunkle 2000, Opler et al. 2009), and
• Mammals: visual observation, pit fall trapping and Sherman livetrapping (Armstrong
et al. 2011).
Plant, and terrestrial and wetland habitat data collection
• Record lists of plants and dominant plant communities observed with a site walk-
through, including ocular estimates of percent cover of plant communities and of
species composition within representative portions of the plant communities. Plant
identification to species follows the Flora of Colorado (Ackerfield 2015).
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• In addition to site vegetation characterization, noxious weeds, plants of conservation
importance, invasive species, and native plant communities are documented.
• Assessment to determine relative forage quality, availability, and quantity and the
abundance of native species.
Additional data on other wetland integrity indicators will be collected at each site including
amphibian and bird diversity. The results of the assessments will be used to create wetland health and
risk summaries with recommendations to maintain or improve site condition and habitat.
Big Game Habitat Quality data collection
At randomly selected sites, data on plant cover of graminoids and forbs, height and age class of
shrubs and trees, ungulate use (browse intensity and availability) for elk and mule deer will be
collected using metrics and developed for the Roaring Fork Watershed. Each site can then be
classified for relative quality of forage using a scoring scale of Low / Moderate / High, using separate
rulesets for winter and growing season habitats. If a similar assessment is desired for other species,
metrics and scoring rules will need to be developed for those species. The inclusion of additional
species and the spatial analysis needed to extrapolate site findings to the larger area are funding
dependent, based on priorities agreed upon between the City of Vail and CNHP.
E. Project Personnel
John Sovell
Wildlife and Invertebrate Ecologist
Colorado State University, Fort Collins
970-491-6052 (o)
970-215-3988 (c)
John.sovell@colostate.edu
John will act as the Principal Investigator for the Project. John has 30+ years of experience in rare
animal field research, animal population biology, ecological modeling, and conservation planning.
He has worked for the last 20 years with the Colorado Natural Heritage Program as a wildlife
researcher and project manager. John has a diverse background and has worked with several rare
vertebrate and invertebrate animals in Colorado including the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse and
Pawnee montane skipper butterfly. John has spent numerous years working with wildlife throughout
Colorado and trapping for small mammals in numerous Colorado counties during completion of
countywide biological assessments. His diverse career has also included work on nesting Trumpeter
Swan’s in Alaska’s Copper River Delta, studying the population dynamics of snowshoe hare
populations in Canada’s, Yukon Territory, and monitoring the population dynamics of Pawnee
montane skipper butterflies on the Pike National Forest. John is an accomplished and very
experienced field researcher familiar with surveying and handling numerous animal taxa.
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Lee Grunau
Conservation Planning Team Leader and Conservation Planner
Colorado State University, Fort Collins
970-491-2844
Lee.grunau@colostate.edu
Lee has been leading conservation planning efforts with the Colorado Natural Heritage Program and
its partners for 28 years. Her expertise includes biodiversity science, conservation assessments and
priority setting, conservation strategy development, partner engagement, and communication of
technical information to lay audiences. Her work includes a wide variety of multi-partner planning
projects at scales ranging from statewide to local, with focus on wildlife, habitat quality, effects of
climate change, and the intersection of biodiversity conservation and recreation. Recent examples
include Fisher’s Peak State Park, the Roaring Fork Biodiversity and Connectivity Study, and
Colorado’s 2015 State Wildlife Action Plan. She is a Conservation Coach for the Conservation
Measures Partnership’s Conservation Standards planning practice.
Michelle Fink
Landscape Ecologist / Spatial Analyst
Colorado State University, Fort Collins
970-491-0765
michelle.fink@colostate.edu
Michelle does applied research in Landscape Ecology and Spatial Analysis (GIS) with an emphasis
on actionable science for natural resource conservation planning. Michelle's current interests are in
the effects of climate change on ecological systems, species distribution modeling, and conservation
and mitigation decision support. She designed and implemented the spatial analyses behind the
Roaring Fork Watershed Biodiversity and Connectivity Study.
Jessica Smith
Team Leader and Botony Ecologist
Colorado State University, Fort Collins
(303) 960-4196
jp.smith@colostate.edu
Jessica is a botanist focusing on Colorado's rare plants, conducting plant population monitoring and
assessments of natural areas across the state. With almost 20 years of experience, she has assessed
plant communities and populations in a variety of ecosystems around the country, with eight years of
experience specific to the Colorado flora. Jessica holds a M.S. degree in Marine, Estuarine, and
Environmental Sciences from the University of Maryland. She served on the board of directors for
the Colorado Native Plant Society for five years and enjoys teaching grass identification field
courses.
40
F. Proposal Detailed Budget
BUDGET ITEM COST
DOMESTIC TRAVEL: $8,475
MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES $2000
CNHP PERSONNEL SALLARY: Field Inventory, Data analysis and
Management, Final Report and Management Plan $117,298
FIELD RESEARCH TECHNITION: To assist Field Inventory $8,058
TOTAL DIRECT COSTS: $135,831
CSU Indirect (@ 10%): $13,583
TOTAL: $149,414
The Colorado Natural Heritage Program (CNHP) is a specialized service center as defined by OMB 2
CFR 200 Subpart E Section 200.468. The rate structure is carefully designed to recover the cost of
operating the CNHP and represents direct costs in accordance with 200.468b which states, “The costs
of such services, when material, must be charged directly to applicable awards based on actual usage
of the services on the basis of a schedule of rates or established methodology…”. The established
schedule/methodology is available. These costs are explicitly removed from F&A cost pools and are
included in the MTDC base for purposes of F&A rate calculation.
G Project Schedule
H Respondent Reservations, Considerations, and Constraints
The following are considerations that CNHP is requesting of the Town of Vail to assist in realizing
the best project outcome. The Town of Vail will assist CNHP with information identifying additional
priority sites to assure timely initiation of field work in the spring of 2023. Additionally, The Town
Start Date:
2024
Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb
Project Discussions
Wildlife, Plant, and
Habitat Inventories and
Wetland Assessment1
Field surveys Data compilation
Reporting Report Draft City
Review Redraft Final report
Collaboration with City
to determine open
space properties for
sampling
1 Wildlife, plant, and habitat suveys will be conducted at the appropriate time as dictated by the seasonal occurrence (or phenology) of the individual
species and habitats or as landowners allow. It is essential that surveys took place during a time when the wildlife and plants are detectable. For
instance, plants are often not identifiable without flowers or fruit that are only present during certain times of the year or breeding birds cannot be
surveyed outside of the breeding season, because they are most visible in breeding plumage and are easier to spot when singing to attract mates.
Project Schedule
March 2023
2023
41
of Vail will assist CNUP with identifying the person(s) of contact at Timberline Aquatics to insure
the timely transfer of data on macroinvertebrates for incorporation into CNHPs data analysis and
reporting. Finally, the Town of Vail will supply CNHP with any information on community
members, NGOs, or government agencies/personnel the town knows have, or may have, data or
information on biological resources pertinent to the project goals.
I. CNHP Professionalism and Workmanship
CNHP will conduct the research and reporting related to this project in a manner complying with all
applicable Town of Vail regulations and ordinances and State and Federal laws and requirements.
I. Execution of Agreement
If CNHP is selected to fulfill the work proposed by the Town of Vail, CSU as a research institution
will require negotiation of the stipulation that all work produced for the project becomes the property
of the Town of Vail.
42
Appendix 1
CNHP’s Partners
Educational Institutions / Research Units
Center for Environmental Management of Military
Lands
Center for Protected Area Management
Colorado College
Colorado Forest Restoration Institute
Colorado Geographic Alliance
Colorado Mountain College
Colorado Native Plant Masters
Colorado State Forest Service
Colorado State University Extension
Department of Biomedical Sciences, CSU
Department of Human Dimensions of Natural
Resources, CSU
Environmental Learning Center
Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology
Department, CSU
Front Range Community College
G.P. Gillette Museum of Arthropod Diversity,
CSU
Geospatial Centroid, CSU
La Trobe University
Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory, CSU
North Central Climate Science Center
Public Lands History Center
Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory
University of Colorado Museum of Natural
History
University of Montana
University of Wyoming
Warner College of Natural Resources, CSU
Western Water Assessment
Federal Partners
Agricultural Research Service
Buckley Air Force Base
F.E. Warren Air Force Base
National Park Service
National Seed Storage Laboratory
National Wetland Inventory
Natural Resource Conservation Service
Peterson Air Force Base
Pueblo Chemical Depot
Sage Grouse Initiative
Schriever Air Force Base
U.S. Air Force Academy
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
U.S. Bureau of Land Management
U.S. Bureau of Reclamation
U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural
Research Service
U.S. Department of Defense
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
U.S. Forest Service
U.S. Geological Survey
USFS Rocky Mountain Research Station
Western Area Power Administration
Local Partners
Arapahoe County
Boulder County
City and County of Denver
City of Aurora
City of Boulder
City of Fort Collins
City of Lakewood
City of Longmont
City of Loveland
Colorado Springs Utilities
Garfield County
Huerfano County
Jefferson County
Lake County
Larimer County
Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments
Pitkin County Open Space and Trails Program
43
Non-governmental Organizations
Aspen Center for Environmental Studies
Aspen Global Change Institute
Aspen Valley Land Trust
Association of State Wetland Managers
Audubon Society
Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
Center for Collaborative Conservation
Center for Snow and Avalanche Studies
Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed
Colorado Cattlemen's Agricultural Land Trust
Colorado Cattlemen's Association
Colorado Native Plant Society
Colorado Oil and Gas Association
Colorado Open Lands
Colorado Riparian Association
Colorado Watershed Assembly
Colorado Weed Management Association
Defenders of Wildlife
Denver Botanic Gardens
Denver Museum of Nature and Science
Ducks Unlimited
Environmental Defense Fund
Great Plains Landscape Conservation
Cooperative
Intermountain West Joint Venture
Keep It Colorado
Mosquito Range Heritage Initiative
Mountain Studies Institute
National Ecological Observatory Network
National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
National Wildlife Federation
Natural Heritage Programs and Conservation
Data Centers
NatureServe
Palmer Land Trust
Partners for Western Conservation
Playa Lakes Joint Venture
Prairie Dog Coalition
River Watch of Colorado
Roaring Fork Conservancy
Rocky Mountain Society of Botanical Artists
Rocky Mountain Wild
San Isabel Land Trust
Society of Wetland Scientists
Southern Plains Land Trust
Southern Rockies Landscape Conservation
Cooperative
The Nature Conservancy
The Wilderness Society
The Wildlife Society
Thunder Basin Grasslands Prairie Ecosystem
Association
Trust for Public Land
Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy
District
WAFWA Prairie Dog Conservation Team
Watershed Biodiversity Initiative
Western Association of Fish and Wildlife
Agencies (WAFWA)
Wild Earth Guardians
Wild Utah Project
Wilderness Workshop
Wildlands Restoration Volunteers
Wildlife Conservation Society
Yampa Valley Land Trust
Private Partners
AloTerra Restoration Services
BIO-Logic, Inc.
Bio-Resources, Inc.
Brendle Group
Chevron
ConocoPhillips
EcoMetrics
Elliott Environmental Consulting
ERO Resources Corporations
Johnson Environmental Consultant
Odell Brewing Company
WestWater Engineering
Xcel Energy
Zeedyk Ecological Consulting
44
State Partners
Colorado Department of Agriculture
Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
Colorado Department of Natural Resources
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
Colorado Department of Transportation
Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety
Colorado Division of Water Resources
Colorado Governors Office
Colorado Natural Areas Program
Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission
Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Colorado State Land Board
Colorado Water Conservation Board
Great Outdoors Colorado
Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism
Tribal Partners
Southern Ute Indian Tribe
Ute Mountain Ute
45
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4.3
Item Cover Page
DATE:February 7, 2023
SUBMITTED BY:Greg Hall, Public Works
ITEM TYPE:Consent Agenda
AGENDA SECTION:Consent Agenda (5 min.)
SUBJECT:Contract Award to GMV for Bus Stop Signage Upgrade
SUGGESTED ACTION:Authorize the Town Manager to enter into an agreement in a form
approved by the Town Attorney with GMV for an amount not to
exceed $150,245 for the purchase and installation of 15 LED bus stop
signs.
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT
ATTACHMENTS:
2_7_2023_Bus_Stop_Signage_Upgrade_Memo.docx
46
To: Vail Town Council
From: Public Works Department
Date: February 7, 2023
Subject: LED Bus Stop Signage Upgrade Agreement with GMV
I.PURPOSE
The purpose of this item is to request Town Council approval of an agreement with GMV for the
purchase and installation of 15 LED bus stop signs at stops along the Intown route as well as
Ford Park.
II.BACKGROUND
In the fall of 2021, staff worked with GMV to upgrade its transit technology system
(RideVail). During this process a new monitoring/control software platform was
implemented, new hardware was installed on all buses and new LED signs were
installed at three stops (Lionshead Village – Eastbound, Covered Bridge – Eastbound,
and Covered Bridge – Westbound) to pilot new larger format LED signage. The
remaining existing LED signs were integrated with the new software system but no
hardware improvements were made at the time.
This project proposes to replace the 14 remaining older LED signs along the Intown
route as well as the Ford Park bus stop sign with the same larger LED signs that were
installed in 2021. The larger signs allow for more effective communication of messages
to passengers. The older signs are also nearing the end of their useful life.
Single source procurement with GMV is recommended by staff to ensure maximum
integration with the software platform.
The price listed includes both equipment and installation. The Town will be responsible
for the removal of existing signage.
47
Town of Vail Page 2
III.ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL
Authorize the Town Manager to enter into an agreement in a form approved by the
Town Attorney with GMV for an amount not to exceed $150,245 for the purchase and
installation of 15 LED bus stop signs.
48
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4.4
Item Cover Page
DATE:February 7, 2023
SUBMITTED BY:Mark Novak, Fire Department
ITEM TYPE:Consent Agenda
AGENDA SECTION:Consent Agenda (5 min.)
SUBJECT:Contract Award to Front Range Fire Apparatus/Boise Mobile
Equipment for Purchase of a Type 3 Wildland Urban Interface
Fire Engine
SUGGESTED ACTION:Direct the Town Manager to enter into an agreement in a form
approved by the Town Attorney with Front Range Fire
Apparatus/Boise Mobile Equipment to purchase a Type 3 fire
apparatus.
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT
ATTACHMENTS:
TC Type 3 Contract Staff Memo.docx
49
To:Town Council
From: Mark Novak, Fire Chief and Paul Cada, Wildland Program Manager
Date: February 7, 2023
Subject: Contract for the Purchase of a Type 3 Wildland Urban Interface Fire Engine
I.Purpose:
The purpose of this memo is to request approval of a contract for the purchase of a Type 3 fire
apparatus. This purchase was approved in the 2023 Capital Projects budget.
II.Background
In 2017 Vail Fire and Emergency Services conducted an evaluation of current apparatus and
the ability to meet current and future needs of the community. That evaluation informed a
strategic planning process and subsequent updates to the capital replacement plan. This
analysis identified the need for a Type 3 wildland urban interface fire apparatus. Type 3
apparatus are better suited to provide structure protection during wildland urban interface fires
than Type 6 apparatus, carry more water and have enhanced pumping capabilities. In addition,
the enhanced capabilities of a Type 3 apparatus allow this type of apparatus to serve as a
reserve Type 1 (structure) fire apparatus on a limited basis.
The table below provides an overview of fire department apparatus inventory:
Heavy Fire Apparatus (Capital)
2021 2022 2023
Type 1 Engine 2011 Type 1 Engine 2011 - Reserve Type 1 Engine 2011 - Reserve
Type 1 Engine 2012 Type 1 Engine 2012 Type 1 Engine 2012
Type 1 Engine 2014 Type 1 Engine 2014 Type 1 Engine 2014
Type 1 Engine- 2007-Reserve Type 1 Engine 2022 Type 1 Engine 2022
Aerial Apparatus (Platform) 2001 Type 1 Engine 2007 - Reserve Type 3 Engine 2023 (Reserve*)
Aerial Apparatus (Ladder) 1990-
Reserve ^Aerial Apparatus (Platform) 2001 ^Aerial Apparatus (Platform) 2001
Light Apparatus (HEF)
Type 6 Engine 2012 Type 6 Engine 2012 Type 6 Engine 2016
Type 6 Engine 2016 Type 6 Engine 2016 Type 6 Engine 2023
* Type 3 Engine will also serve as backup reserve for Type 1 engines
^New Aerial Apparatus ordered 2021 with anticipated delivery 2024
50
Town of Vail Page 2
In 2022 staff from VFES evaluated several different styles and manufacturers of Type 3
apparatus to determine suitability for our community. Staff determined that a standard
specification that has been developed by Cal Fire would best meet the needs of the department
and the community. Currently there are only 3 manufacturers that produce this specification.
Currently supply chain issues and demand are resulted in delivery times for new apparatus to
24-36 months from order date for all manufacturers.
To address potentially long delivery times the purchase of a Type 3 was included in the 2023
adopted budget. $540,000 was included in the 2023 capital budget for the purchase and
equipping of a Type 3 engine. It is expected that this apparatus will be in service in Vail for 15 -
20 years.
III.Current Situation
To meet potential demand, manufacturers periodically produce stock apparatus which they
make available for immediate purchase. In January 2023 Front Range Fire Apparatus, the
regional dealer for Boise Mobile Equipment made available a stock vehicle that with minor
interior modifications met the desired specifications. The contract price for this vehicle with
these modifications is $444,756.12.
Staff recommend the purchase of this apparatus through a sole source contract with Front
Range Fire Apparatus due to the following considerations:
1. Only three manufacturers build the Cal Fire Type 3 engine specification identified as
best fit for department needs. Two of the manufacturers, BME and Pierce, are only sold
through a single regional dealership Front Range Fire Apparatus. Putting a specialized
vehicle out for open bid will likely not result in additional bidders.
2. Cost escalation and extended delivery times continue to plague vehicle purchases for
the Town of Vail and throughout the fire service. Many fire departments across Colorado
have reported issues with manufacturers increasing purchase prices of apparatus during
the build time despite having a signed purchase agreements in place. Purchasing a
stock apparatus will eliminate the price and delivery uncertainty.
3. If the department were to bid out a custom vehicle, we would end up with a nearly
identical truck delivered in 24-36 months.
4. The manufacture, Boise Mobile Equipment (BME), is the largest manufacture of Type 3
apparatus in the nation. Eagle River, Greater Eagle, and Gypsum Fire Departments
have apparatus built by BME. These agencies recommend BME for build quality,
durability, and fair value.
5. The dealer, Front Range Fire Apparatus has a long-standing relationship with the town
and provides post purchase service support for all the fire department’s heavy
equipment fleet.
IV.Staff Recommendation
Direct the Town Manager to enter into an agreement in a form approved by the Town Attorney
with Front Range Fire Apparatus/Boise Mobile Equipment to purchase a Type 3 fire apparatus.
51
AGENDA ITEM NO. 5.1
Item Cover Page
DATE:February 7, 2023
SUBMITTED BY:Stephanie Bibbens, Town Manager
ITEM TYPE:Town Manager Report
AGENDA SECTION:Town Manager Report (10 min.)
SUBJECT:Council Matters Status Report
SUGGESTED ACTION:
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT
ATTACHMENTS:
230207 Matters.docx
52
COUNCIL MATTERS
Status Report
Report for Feb. 7, 2023
o “Third Thursday”Vail Après Concert: At the Vail Après monthly concert at the
International Bridge on Thursday, Feb 16th, the PrimaVail team will be handing
out 1 drink ticket between 4 and 7 pm to each Vail employee attending the
concert as a mid-season appreciation.Please come out to join in the fun and
listen to the magical music of DJ TokiMonsta, Mikey Thunder & Lando! The
concert starts at 4:30pm with an announcement of the PrimaService winner!
o Red plastic bags used for Vail Daily newspaper delivery: Environmental staff
members have reached out to the citizen collecting the bags, and will connect
with the Vail Daily on alternative options.
o Parking voucher policy update: At the January 17th meeting Council member
Barry Davis got support from Town Council to look into providing 2-hour parking
vouchers to non-profits. Currently vouchers for a 2-hour window are provided to
Library customers (a town-owned facility) and Imagination Station (children’s
programming hosted by Vail Recreation District in the Lionshead Welcome
Center building. After a thourough review of potential options by Town Manager
and Public Works Director, it is recommended to stay within the current voucher
policy given concerns for opening the door to so many uses. The Parking Task
Force also weighed in on the matter, concered with undermining the intent of
reducing the two hours free, which has opened up availability of parking spaces
at peak times. Staff will continue researching options with the new parking
software for managing a potential future voucher program, where for example,
businesses or organizations could purchase vouchers for an additional hour of
parking to hand out to customers.
o E-Vail Courier / Loading and Delivery: The Communications Department is
finding ways to help promote good outcomes from the new Loading & Delivery
regulations. Special thanks to local business owners Dave Chapin and Matt
Morgan as well as Vail Police Commander Ryan Kenney for their advocacy and
participation.
https://vimeo.com/790965553
53
Town Council Action Plan Updates
Each month town staff will update the Town Council Action Plan document as projects
and initiatives move forward or are updated. Below is a link to the timeline and “live”
document:
https://www.vailgov.com/government/town-council-meeting-registration/town-council-
priorities
Social Media Tracking
https://share.sproutsocial.com/view/6d2b654b-6d8b-43cc-ab65-
4b6d8be3cc70
To make the most of Sprout Listening, here are two tips –
1.Under the “Performance” tab, scroll down to sentiment summary and click on the gear icon to
toggle the setting to show messages tagged as “Neutral” rather than just “Positive” or
“Negative”
2.Under the “Themes” tab scroll down to “Top Messages” and toggle between how the messages
are sorted to see top messages by various metrics. Scroll below the first three messages and
press “Show More” to see further examples.
54
In the News______________________________________________________
Jan.12
Teaming Up to Bring Vail’s Strategy Home
https://provincetownindependent.org/featured/2023/01/11/teaming-up-to-bring-vails-
strategy-home/
Jan. 13
What Vail’s Dwight Henninger gained in his year as president of International Association of
Chiefs of Police
https://www.vaildaily.com/news/what-vails-dwight-henninger-gained-in-his-year-as-president-
of-international-association-of-chiefs-of-police/
EHU Compliance
https://www.vaildaily.com/news/vail-asks-employee-housing-unit-owners-to-complete-annual-
compliance-by-feb-1/
Jan. 14
Booth Heights
https://www.vaildaily.com/news/vail-resorts-town-of-vail-working-to-settle-east-vail-case-
outside-of-court/
Jan. 16
Vail Town Council revisits priorities to kick off the year
https://www.vaildaily.com/news/vail-revisits-priorities-to-kick-off-the-year/
Jan. 17
Vail Mountain has now recorded more than 15 feet of snow during the 2022-23 season, with
more storms on the way
https://www.vaildaily.com/news/vail-mountain-has-now-recorded-more-than-15-feet-of-snow-
during-the-2022-23-season-with-more-storms-on-the-way/
Jan. 18
Booth Heights
https://www.vaildaily.com/news/vail-votes-to-extend-east-vail-entitlements/
https://scrippsnews.com/stories/well-known-ski-town-fights-over-sheep-and-affordable-
housing/
Jan. 19
Parking and transit
https://www.vaildaily.com/news/bus-ridership-up-frontage-road-days-down-with-vails-new-
parking-program/
55
Community at heart of Vail
https://www.skijournal.com/heart-of-the-empire-in-vail-a-tightly-knit-community-is-hidden-
beneath-extravagance/
Jan. 20
Gray Malin’s guide to Vail
https://www.forbes.com/sites/brittanyanas/2023/01/19/photographer-gray-malins-guide-to-
vail/?sh=16886b642c7e
Jan. 22
Chicken suit man
https://www.aspendailynews.com/opinion/ski-town-crackdown/article_dacdb0a2-9935-11ed-
80ad-aba8478c7126.html
Jan. 24
Comp study
https://www.vaildaily.com/news/inside-vails-2-8-million-plan-to-address-staff-compensation-
benefits/
Winter getaway
https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/postcard-from-vail-my-winter-getaway-in-photos
Jan. 25
Pile burning
https://www.vaildaily.com/news/burning-of-slash-piles-seen-from-vail-mountain-wraps-up-
years-of-logging-work-in-piney-area/
Jan. 26
Eagle Valley Trail may be complete by the end of 2024
https://www.vaildaily.com/news/eagle-valley-trail-may-be-complete-by-the-end-of-2024/
The Colorado River: Where the west quenches its thirst
https://www.latimes.com/environment/story/2023-01-26/the-colorado-river-where-the-west-
quenches-its-thirst
Photographer captures Vail aerial shots from open-air helicopter
https://original.newsbreak.com/@brittany-anas-1591481/2902857399926-photographer-
captures-vail-aerial-shots-from-open-air-helicopter
Our View: Following Vail
https://capecodchronicle.com/en/5804/opinion/9858/Our-View-Following-Vail.htm
Jan. 27
Mental Health Group
https://www.vaildaily.com/news/new-group-tackles-mental-health-in-vail-hospitality-industry/
56
Season to-date and NBS
https://www.vaildaily.com/opinion/howard-this-is-our-moment-to-shine/
First timers guide
https://snowbrains.com/a-first-timers-guide-to-vail-mountain-co/
Jan. 28
Ultimate guide to Vail
https://www.thetravel.com/ultimate-travel-guide-to-vail-things-to-do/
Lily Connelly
https://www.vaildaily.com/news/family-and-friends-celebrate-the-life-of-lily-connelly-in-vail/
Coach Prime visit
https://www.vaildaily.com/news/deion-coach-prime-sanders-calls-trip-to-vail-a-life-changing-
experience/
Jan. 31
Colorado River
https://www.vaildaily.com/news/new-colorado-river-agreement-will-have-headwaters-
impacts-in-eagle-county/
Chicken suit man
https://www.vaildaily.com/news/chicken-suited-demonstrator-in-vail-facing-charges-in-two-
different-cases-starts-crowdfunding-campaign-for-legal-expenses/
NBS
https://www.travelandleisure.com/vail-50-anniversary-national-brotherhood-of-skiers-
7094624
Sustainability – opinion
https://www.vaildaily.com/opinion/sustainable-vail-resolve-to-think-green-in-the-new-year/
Feb. 1
Post Office
https://www.vaildaily.com/news/joe-neguse-expresses-deep-concerns-over-mismanagement-
of-local-post-offices/
Upcoming Events
o PrimaVail Concert – Feb 16
o Community Meeting – Mar 28
o Mar 31 – Ski with Elected Officials in Vail
57
AGENDA ITEM NO. 5.2
Item Cover Page
DATE:February 7, 2023
SUBMITTED BY:Stephanie Bibbens, Town Manager
ITEM TYPE:Town Manager Report
AGENDA SECTION:Town Manager Report (10 min.)
SUBJECT:Tuesday, July 4th, 2023 Town Council Meeting moved to
Wednesday, July 5, 2023 due to the holiday.
SUGGESTED ACTION:
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT
ATTACHMENTS:
58
AGENDA ITEM NO. 6.1
Item Cover Page
DATE:February 7, 2023
TIME:5 min.
SUBMITTED BY:Alex Jakubiec, Finance
ITEM TYPE:Public Hearings
AGENDA SECTION:Public Hearings
SUBJECT:Ordinance No. 1, Series of 2023, Second Reading, an Ordinance
Amending Chapter 14 of Title 4 of the Vail Town Code to Expand
Acceptable Insurance Types for the Licensing of Short-Term
Rental Properties
SUGGESTED ACTION:Approve, deny, or approve with amendments, the second reading of
Ordinance No. 1, series of 2023.
PRESENTER(S):Alex Jakubiec, Budget Analyst/STR Manager
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM REPORT
ATTACHMENTS:
Ordinance No. 1, Series 2023 Memo-2nd Reading
Ordinance No. 1, Series 2023
59
__________________________________________________________________________
Memorandum
TO:Town Council
FROM: Finance Department
DATE:February 7, 2023
SUBJECT:Ordinance No. 1, Series of 2023, an ordinance expanding types of insurance accepted
for licensing requirements of short-term rental properties.
[NO CHANGES HAVE BEEN MADE TO THIS ORDINANCE FROM FIRST READING]
[MEMO REPEATED]
I.SUMMARY
Ordinance No. 1, Series of 2023 provides an administrative update to the STR code to allow
staff to accept insurance provided by online marketplace facilitators if it meets or exceeds the
town’s insurance requirements outlined in the code. The current STR ordinance, which took
effect on January 1st, 2023, specifically states that marketplace facilitator insurance policies will
not be accepted as meeting the insurance requirements for an STR registration. Due to recent
significant changes in the insurance policies now offered by some online marketplace
facilitators, staff recommends amending the STR ordinance to accept these insurance products.
II.BACKGROUND
Effective for all new STR licensees on or after January 1, 2023, and all existing STR licensees
upon the renewal of their license, due by February 28, 2023—proof of a $1 million insurance
coverage specifically for STR activity must be provided. The ordinance allows the following
types of insurance to meet this requirement, but specifically does not allow for “insurance
provided by online STR platforms” to qualify.
Property liability insurance
Commercial liability insurance
Endorsement to a homeowner’s policy for coverage of STR activities
III.DISCUSSION
Since the approval of Ordinance No. 11, Series 2022, significant changes have occurred in the
insurance policies offered by Airbnb and VRBO, the two largest STR platforms in Vail based on
listings, that now meet the insurance requirements outlined within the Ordinance. Staff
60
recommends amending the STR ordinance to allow for the acceptance of insurance from these
platforms and others that may meet Town standards in the future. These insurance coverages
are outlined below. These policies only apply to rentals booked through each respective
platform.
A summary of coverage for Airbnb and VRBO are included below.
Airbnb
Host Liability Insurance
o $1 million coverage
o May cover STR host’s liability for;
Bodily injury to a guest (or others)
Damage to or theft of property belonging to a guest (or others)
Damage caused by a guest (or others) to common areas, like building
lobbies and nearby properties
Host Damage Protection
o $3 million coverage for damage caused by guests (or their invitees)
o May covers host for;
Damage to host’s home and furnishings/belongings
Damage to host’s parked cars, boats, or other vehicles
Unexpected or extra cleaning costs needed due to the behavior of a
guest
Loss of income from canceled Airbnb bookings due to damage
VRBO
Liability Insurance
o $1 million coverage for bookings made through VRBO
o May covers STR host’s liability for;
Accidental injury to a traveler at the host’s rental property
Damage to a third party (such as a neighbor) caused by a traveler
Damage Protection Options
o VRBO does not provide hosts insurance coverage for damage to their property
o Hosts may require a damage deposit for minor property damage and/or require
travelers to purchase property damage insurance coverage with up to $5,000 in
coverage
As outlined above, Airbnb has made significant changes to their insurance coverages which
matches and exceeds the minimums outlined in Ordinance No. 11, Series 2022 for bookings
made through their website. VRBO has also made changes that significantly match the
minimums for liability insurance but would not provide coverage for the host’s property.
Properties that rent on multiple platforms would still be required to provide proof of
insurance beyond what is provided by the online STR platform.
IV.ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL
61
1. Approve, deny, or approve with amendments, the second reading of Ordinance No. 1,
series of 2023.
62
1
2/3/2023
C:\USERS\EASYPD~1\APPDATA\LOCAL\TEMP\BCL TECHNOLOGIES\EASYPDF
8\@BCL@9C0BF7F3\@BCL@9C0BF7F3.DOCX
ORDINANCE NO. 1
SERIES 2023
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 4-14-4 OF THE VAIL TOWN
CODE, REGARDING INSURANCE FOR SHORT-TERM RENTALS
NOW BE IT ORDAINED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF VAIL,
COLORADO, THAT:
Section 1.Section Chapter 4-14-4 of the Vail Town Code is hereby amended
as follows:
4-14-4: INSURANCE:
Every STR shall be continuously insured, with minimum limits of
$1,000,000. The insurance may be in any of the following forms: property
liability insurance; commercial liability insurance; or an endorsement to a
homeowner’s policy for coverage of STR activities. Insurance provided by
online STR platforms does not qualify as valid insurance under this
subsection.
Section 2.If any part, section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this
ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid, such decision shall not effect the validity of
the remaining portions of this ordinance; and the 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.
Section 3.The Town Council hereby finds, determines and declares that this
ordinance is necessary and proper for the health, safety and welfare of the Town and the
inhabitants thereof.
Section 4.The amendment of any provision of the Vail Town Code 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 proceeding as commenced under or by virtue of the provision
amended. The amendment of any provision hereby shall not revive any provision or any
ordinance previously repealed or superseded unless expressly stated herein.
Section 5.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.
Section 6.Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect as provided by the
Vail Town Charter.
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INTRODUCED, READ ON FIRST READING, APPROVED, AND ORDERED
PUBLISHED ONCE IN FULL ON FIRST READING this 17th day of January, 2023 and a
public hearing for second reading of this Ordinance set for the 7th day of February, 2023,
in the Council Chambers of the Vail Municipal Building, Vail, Colorado.
_____________________________
Kim Langmaid, Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________
Stephanie Bibbens, Town Clerk
READ AND APPROVED ON SECOND READING AND ORDERED PUBLISHED
this ____ day of _________________, 2023.
_____________________________
Kim Langmaid, Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________
Stephanie Bibbens, Town Clerk
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