HomeMy WebLinkAbout1973-07-12 Town Council MinutesMINUTES
SPECIAL MEETING
TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF VAI L
J U LY 12, 1973
is A special meeting of the Town Council of the Town of Vail was convened at
7:40 p.m. , July 12, 1973, in the Council Room of the Vail Municipal Building.
Mayor John Dobson and the following Councilmen were present:
Richard Bailey John Donovan
Joseph Langmaid Josef Staufer
Tom Steinberg Gerry White
Also present were:
Terry Minger, Town Manager
Stan Bernstein, Finance Director
The meeting had been called and advertised in order to present the proposed
Town of Vail Master Plan. Prior to conducting any business, it was announced
that the Council would meet for a work session at 10:00 a.m. on July 13. A
statement was read by the Mayor setting forth the need for such a plan. He
noted that the firms involved are Livingston & Blaney and Royston, Hanamoto,
Beck & Abiey. Mr. Ream has been hired as the architect for the transportation
center. Mr. Minger commented on the parking inventory analysis. The
figures of needed parking were arrived at by three separate studies; by
Beardsley -Davis, Royston et at, and the Town Staff. The proposed parking
structure had been reduced from 1500 to 1000 cars as these studies indicated
that there was some danger of over -building the structure. However, expan-
sion to 1500 cars in the future is possible. Until that time, the eastern portion
of the land could be used for a park or recreational facilities.
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Mr. Beck noted some of the tasks they had been given: 1 . . develop a policy
for growth; 2. develop a long-range open space, green belt and park program;
3. develop a recreation system plan; 4. study transportation and parking
problems; 5. consider an environmental study of the valley. Mr. Beck
explained three maps: the landscaping development plan; the transportation
analysis and the development phasing process. Mr. Ream explained his plans
for the parking structure and transportation terminal. The cost of the proposals
was given by Mr. Bernstein. The transportation terminal and 1000 space parking
lot would cost approximately 4.3 million dollars; the landscaping and mall areas,
etc. associated with this would be $600,000. The annual debt service on the
project would be $440,000, with $203,000 a year coming from revenues and
$237,000 from sales tax. In regard to the rate structure, there would be a ski
season rate and summer rate, the main difference being that, in the latter case,
the first three hours would be free. There would also be two season passes;
one for the ski season and one for the entire year. It was emphasized that the
rates have not yet been finalized, but have been developed in order to make
approximate calculations. Mr. Minger noted that the workability of the rate
structure was dependent on a good, free, mass transit system.
Mr. Dan Herrington explained the mechanics of a bond issue. For Vail, he
recommended a general obligation bond supported by revenues from the project
and sales tax revenues. An 8 million dollars bond issue would require a 1 cent
increase in sales tax. Three questions will appear on the ballot; the one cent
sales tax increase, the issuance of a bond for the purchase of the Antholz property;
and the issuance of a bond for 4.9 million for the parking structure/transportation
terminal. Mr. Herrington noted that the people eligible to vote were those over
18 who are registered and residents of Vail.
A short break was taken at 9.30 p.m. and the meeting resumed with 'questions
from the audience at 9:50 p.m.
Mayor Dobson noted that Mr. Ream has been giving some attention to the pos-
sible use of some of the area under the berm for a meeting room. However, it
was his opinion that the idea needs further study.. Mr. Hyder noted that, if
construction was begun on October 1, 1973, the parking could be available
by November 15, 1974. Some of the work on the transportation terminal
portions would not be completed until 1973.
Mr. Nott noted that in the plan for the Antholz property, he saw no provision
• for a community school. In his opinion, this would be a better location than
the Vail Associates land in Sandstone. Mayor Dobson agreed that such a
facility should be considered. Mr. Whitelaw inquired what percentage of the
total sales tax is paid by the tourist. Mr. Bernstein responded that he thinks
the figure is probably 80%. He also noted that Aspen has a 7% sales tax. In
regard to the ownership of the land for the parking structure, Mayor Dobson
noted that Vail Associates is willing to deed the land to the Town in fee simple.
A member of the audience inquired if additional revenues could be gained by
annexing outlying areas; Mr. Minger indicated that for the first five years, a
deficit would be incurred by the Town in regard to residential areas annexed.
In response to a question regarding the cost of a transit system, Mr. Minger
noted that for next year, Vail Associates and the Town will sponsor a 6-bus
system; however, a regional transit authority would be the answer to funding
service outside of the municipal limits. Mr. Bernstein. noted that the funds
for the municipal bus service come from the general fund revenues. He also
noted that 40 riders per hour would be needed to support a regional system on
the schedule he had used in his calculations.
A member of the audience, inquired about alternative rYethods of financing. Mr.
Herrington responded that the impact of an 8 million dollar bond issue supported
by property tax would be 40 mills, In addition, at this point in time, bond
counsel would not approve a bond issue supported by a bed tax. Mr. Bernstein
added that if a person spends $3,000 a year in Vail, the amount of tax paid as,
a result of the additional cent tax would be $30.00.. Mr. Westby asked for a
cost comparison of putting parking on the Antholz as opposed to building the
proposed structure. Mayor Dobson suggested that it would be more expensive
onthe Antholz as the land cost would be great while the current site is free.
In addition, he did not view parking lots as the best use for the Antholz. Mr.
Westby suggested that 40-50 car lots, well landscaped, would be acceptable and
avoid a structure. Mr. Mingersuggested that to attempt to park one thousand
cars on the Antholz would cover half the property. A member of the audience
suggested that a structure be built in Lionshead. Mayor Dobson noted that that
might be necessary in the future; but, it would not solve the problem in the core
area. Mr. Minger added that the intent is to keep•the old core and the Uonshead
core balanced and viable. Returning to the question of use of the Antholz for
parking, Mr. Beck added that the location would add a burden.on the transit
system and eliminate walking to and from the cars. In addition, if a structure
• were built on the Antholz, the change, of grades on the present lot.would be lost
and a great deal of excavation required. In response to a question, Mr. Beck
noted that the proposed bus routes are two-way. Mayor Dobson noted that the
use of the berm area by the VRA would require the addition of another skylight.
However, this plan would not be finalized until more specific proposals were
received from the VRA .
A member of the audience inquired if there were any other major projects to be
accomplished within the next two or three years. Mr. Herrington noted that.
there were all of the master plan proposals .suggested for later phases; however,
8 million dollars would not saturate the capacity of the Town; the limit is probably.
10 million dollars. If sales tax revenues were to increase, more flexibility would
be gained. Mr. Westby inquired if there were any federal funds available for
Landscaping along the highway. Mr. Minger ,.indicated .that no funds will be avail-
able until 1975 but that the Tpwm is making application: .In addition, it Is hoped
to obtain five thousand trees from the Vail :'Pass right-of-way over, the next two
and a half years. Mr. Hofferinquired about a possible chair lift on the Antholz
property. Mayor Dobson indicated that no decision has :been reached In this
regard. In response to a question, he noted that the proposed bridge for the
Manor Vail Road .would be a pedestrian bridge.
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Mr. McLaughlin inquired about the operation of the snow melting equipment
on the proposed parking structure. Mr. Ream noted that a purification filter-
ing system will operate in such a fashion that the water can be returned to
the stream at 1 ° higher in temperature than the water in the stream. Mr.
Minger stated that, in regard to the effect of an efficient transportation system
on vehicular traffic, it is hoped that the number of local automobiles can be
reduced by 50%. Mr. McLaughlin inquired how many locals are using the main
• lot at the present time. Mr. Bernstein noted that, on a design day last year,
1/2 of the cars in the main lot were YM plates or local; 150 out of 180 in the
ski school lot were local. A member of the audience inquired what the proce-
dure would be if people wanted to park their car in the structure For a week;
Mayor Dobson indicated that they would be charged. Mr. Hofler inquired why
an "inclined wagon" had been incorporated in the structure. Mayor Dobson
suggested that it fits the configuration of the berm area. Mr. Ream added that
it is more expensive than an elevator and less expensive than an escalator,
especially when it is considered that 3 separate escalators would have to be
used. An elevator would deposit the passenger 70 'feet from the street. The
"inclined wagon" would connect levels 2, 3, and 4; level 1 is only three feet
below grade. In addition, stairs have been included.
The importance to the project of the land where the Cornice Building is located
was asked. Mr. Ream noted that it is important to the east end road and Mayor
Dobson added that a fair price for it will be determined. Mr. Klug inquired
about the effect on traffic patterns. Mr. Minger suggested that the intent is
not to generate more traffic in the core but to accommodate the cars which are
already there and are illegally or illogically parked. He did suggest that the
local might change his traffic pattern somewhat. Mr. Rodgers inquired if it
were possible to build additional tennis courts prior to Phase III. Mayor
Dobson suggested that the Recreation District might undertake such a project,
especially if the land were available to them. In addition, the land at the
eastern end of the parking lot might allow 3 or 4 courts. In response to a
question, Mr. Ream indicated that the landscaping would be carried around
the east end of the structure. A member of the audience asked how important
the Antholz property is to the parking structure. Mayor Dobson stated that
they basically accomplish two different goals; that one does not follow from
the other. Mr. Kruse inquired how supplies would be received if the core
was closed. This closure would not be affected at the present time. Over a
longer period of time, a system For the delivery of supplies might evolve.
Mr. Beck indicated that a better regulation of the time of delivery might
adequately solve the congestion problem. If not, an electric cart system
is a remote possibility,
A member of the audience inquired what would happen if there were any unforeseen
construction delays. Mr. Hyder indicated that if the construction were not complete
. they would still have 450 spaces. While under ,;e6nstruct1on, there will be some
problems, but Mayor Dobson indicated that the bus system would be relied upon
heavily to bring people from outlying parking areas. In addition, Mr. Minger
indicated that portions of the streets could be opened to parking for that sum-
mer only. Mr. Rodgers suggested that if the electric cart system were develop-
ed, it might require major changes in the parking structure. The Mayor indicated
that such a system would perhaps be centered in the undeveloped eastern end of
the lot. It was clarified that there would not be parking provided for overnight
campers; these would continue to park in the outlying lots at Lionshead.
Mayor Dobson asked the Council For their comments. Councilman Staufer
emphasized that the parking structure would not look like a big city parking
lot, although this would cost a little more. In regard to the Antholz property,
he emphasized that the acquisition of land upon which facilities can be built
in the Future is a top priority. He Felt that the master plan should include
children's play areas in Sandstone. Mayor Dobson noted that a playground has
been discussed. Councilmen Bailey and Steinberg emphasized that they were
pleased and asked for citizen input. Councilman Donovan clarified that one
reason an ice rink has been more discussed than other amenities is that it can
serve many functions. Also, an ice rink and performing arts center might. be
able to pay for themselves. He noted that there appears to be some confusion
over the condemnation process and that "condemnation" is not favorably viewed.
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However, if the owners settled on an acceptable price, it could be purchased
immediately. The Council could not spend extra money just to avoid the
process. Councilman White emphasized that the parking structure is not
intended to bring in extra cars but to centralize those already present in the
core. Councilman Langmaid stated that he felt the plan would improve the.
Town.
Mr. Klug inquired if any land in the Lionshead area could be used for tennis
courts. Mayor Dobson replied that they are continuing to study that and there
possibly should be some courts located there. As a final note, he emphasized
that further meetings will be held and publicized.
The meeting adjourned at 11 :30 p.m.
Town Clerk