HomeMy WebLinkAbout1997-05-06 Town Council MinutesMINUTES
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
May 6, 1997
7:30 P.M.
A regular meeting of the Vail Town Council was held on Tuesday, May 6, 1997, in the Council Chambers of the Vail
icipal Building. The meeting was called to order at approximately 7:30 P.M.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Robert W. Armour, Mayor
Sybill Navas, Mayor Pro -tern
Kevin Foley
Michael Jewett
Paul Johnston (arrived at 8 p.m.)
Ludwig Kurz
MEMBERS ABSENT: Rob Ford
TOWN OFFICIALS PRESENT: Bob McLaurin, Town Manager
Pam Brandmeyer, Assistant Town Manager
Tom Moorhead, Town Attorney
The first item on the agenda was Citizen Participation. Dick Peterson, a resident of West Vail, appeared before the
Council to ask for the town's help in expanding insurance coverage for a town -owned lot adjoining Buffehr Creek Park.
The land, acquired by the town last year, has been used for years as an informal dirt track for mountain bike riders. After
some initial research, Peterson said he was having difficulty working out a way to obtain insurance coverage for the
bikers on his own and suggested the town expand its insurance coverage. The Council directed staff to research the
matter.
1301eischer of Vail Run presented a list of several recommended improvements including: working more cooperatively
with the Colorado Department of Transportation to improve graveling on the North Frontage Road in the wintertime;
pulling weeds from the 1-70 underpass retaining walls during the summer; adding benches in the winter for guests waiting
to be picked up by private van carriers in Lionshead; and adding another pay phone at the Vail Transportation Center.
Item number two on the agenda was the First Amendment to Development Agreement for Vail Commons. Town
Attorney, Tom Moorhead presented the item and stated the intent of the amendment was to extend the date for
completion of the Commercial Component, including the Supermarket and Day Care Component until no later than
September 1, 1997. Several items were stated for causing the delays, such as survey discrepancies, extreme weather
in October, 1996 and April, 1997 and difficulties in receiving material deliveries and engineer design failure. During
discussion, Councilman Michael Jewett continued to voice his opposition to the project. The current schedule is as
follows: supermarket opening by May 21; the exterior components of the adjoining retail rental areas completed by June
15; employee housing units completed by June 30; and completion of the day care component by June 30. After further
discussion, Sybill Navas made a motion to approve the amendment and Ludwig Kurz seconded the motion. The Council
voted 5-1 (Jewett against) to amend the development agreement between the Town of Vail and City Market by extending
the completion date of the commercial component from July 1, 1997, to September 1, 1997.
The third item on the agenda was the reading of Ordinance No. 9, Series of 1997, an Emergency Ordinance Amending
W6Wail
Signs to Allow for Temporary Signage and a Special Review Process for Temporary Signage Because of the
ail Interchange Roundabout Construction. Mayor Armour read the title in full. Town of Vail staff members Larry
Grafel, Greg Hall, Pam Brandmeyer and Dirk Mason presented the item, stating that they had been contacted by
merchants in the West Vail area advising of the impacts experienced in doing business due to the roundabout
construction. It was felt that allowing temporary signage during this period would help mitigate these effects being
experienced by the merchants. Paul Johnson made a motion to approve Ordinance No. 9, 1997, as an emergency
ordinance. Ludwig Kurz seconded the motion. The Council voted 6-0 to approve an emergency ordinance that allows
for the placement of temporary on -site signs, banners, etc., for businesses directly impacted by the West Vail roundabout
construction. The measure, which includes a waiver of the town's sign application fees, becomes effective immediately
and extends to Nov. 1, 1997.
Fourth on the agenda was an appeal of an administrative decision determining that the Vail Run tennis bubble, located
at 1000 Lionsridge Loop (Vail Run) was a seasonal structure. Town of Vail Planner, Dominic Mauriello presented the
item to the Council, stating that the staff had determined this bubble to be a seasonal structure, and should be removed
during the summer months. The issue had surfaced when the applicant applied for an amendment to a Special
Development District to allow the current tennis courts to be converted to other recreational uses. Larry Eskwith, attorney
for the applicant, addressed the Council. The applicant, Bill Fleischer -Vail Run Operations Manager was also present.
Mr. Fleischer stated his reasons for allowing the bubble to remain in place year-round. Sybill Navas made a motion to
overturn the staffs decision to remove the bubble, as it was a recreational structure and had been in place for 20 years.
Mike Jewett seconded the motion. Mr. Eskwith stated he would like to present his case to the Council, in the event the
reo�t was denied. After further discussion, a vote was taken and the motion passed unanimously, 6-0.
Fifth on the agenda was the first reading of Ordinance No, 10, Series of 1997, an ordinance amending Ordinance No.
7, Series of 1995, an ordinance amending Special Development District No. 5 to remove language requiring recreational
amenities to be tennis facilities. Mayor Armour read the title in full. Town Planner Dominic Mauriello presented the item
and provided the following background: The applicant is requesting to remove the language requiring that the recreational
amenities be tennis facilities so that other recreational uses can be substituted for the tennis courts. Specifically, the
applicant is requesting that the two covered tennis courts be converted to other recreational uses as permitted in the
Accessory Uses section of this ordinance. Section 6(D) 1 of the ordinance (page 5), provides for accessory uses:
Indoor and outdoor recreational facilities, including, but not limited to, swimming pools, tennis courts, handball,
and squash courts and similar recreational facilities.
T*
tEC, at its April 28, 1997 meeting, recommended approval (unanimously) of the proposed major amendment subject
following conditions:
That any proposed changes to non -enumerated "recreational uses" will be evaluated by the staff as a minor
amendment to the SDD and be subject to the 9 SDD review criteria.
2. That any future 'recreational use" shall be available to the general public.
The above conditions had been incorporated in the proposed ordinance, and the Staff recommendation was for approval
of Ordinance No. 10, Series of 1997, on first reading.
Discussion followed and it was agreed that all references to tennis courts only be removed and new language inserted
to be include other recreational uses. Paul Johnston made a motion to approve Ordinance No. 10, Series of 1997, of
first reading and Mike Jewett seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the motion passed unanimously, 6-0.
The sixth item on the agenda was an update on the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan. Director of the Town of
Vail Community Development Department, Susan Connelly presented the item along with Town Manager, Bob McLaurin
and Consultant, Ethan Moore, and provided an update on the Lionshead redevelopment master plan. Staff reported on
Stage Two "Wish List" Submittals and introduced Stage Three: Alternatives Analysis and Selection of Preferred
Alternative. Council members were asked to: 1) approve or modify the list of "Wish List" items to be analyzed in Stage
Three, and 2) approve or modify the proposed Stage Three process and schedule. The staff recommendation was for
a&val of both.
During public discussion, Lucian Layne, a part-time resident of Vantage Point condominiums, asked the Council to
remove "wish list" item 153 because, in his words, it would be like giving out a blank check. Response 153 suggests,
among other things, rezoning the Lionshead parking structure to allow for a wide variety of uses of both private and public
natures. David Corbin, representing Vail Associates, Rob LeVine of Antler's Lodge, and Phil Holbert, also a part-time
resident of Vantage Point, urged the Council to retain all wish list items for additional review. Corbin and the others
disputed Layne's reasoning that response 153 is inappropriate, reminding the Council that a master plan is not an
approval for any particular development concept. Following up on Corbin's comment, LeVine said he hoped the master
plan blueprint would include creative incentives for redevelopment so actions could be undertaken within the next five
years rather than 10 or 15 years down the road. Step three of the process will include studies on physical feasibility and
qualitative analysis of the 173 ideas, market/financial feasibility and designation of public view corridors, if any. Ludwig
Kurz made a motion to approve the list of "Wish List" items to be analyzed in Stage Three and to approve the proposed
Stage Three process and schedule. Kevin Foley seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the motion passed
unanimously, 6-0.
The seventh item on the agenda was a request for a change of non -conforming use of the Gasthof Gramshammer
Underground Parking Structure. Town of Vail Planner, George Ruther presented the item and provided the following
background: Pursuant to Section 18.64.080 (Change of Non -conforming Use) of the Municipal Code of the Town of Vail,
the applicant, Pepi Gramshammer, represented by Kurt Segerberg, is requesting a change of non -conforming use. The
ap nt proposes to remove an existing legal non -conforming surface parking area at the Gasthof Gramshammer in
themmercial Core I Zone District, and subsequently replace it with a non -conforming underground parking structure.
George further explained that on April 14, 1997, the PEC upheld an appeal of an administrative decision regarding the
applicant's proposal, finding that, "A private and public unstructured (surface) off-street vehicle parking is a different land
use than private and public structured (underground/enclosed) off-street vehicle parking," and, therefore, the property
must be brought into compliance with the development regulations prescribed in the Municipal Code, or a change of non-
conforming use must be approved by the Vail Town Council. The staff of the Community Development Department
recommended the Council approve, with conditions, the applicant's request for a change of non -conforming use at the
Gasthof Gramshammer to allow for the construction of an underground (structured) parking area.
During discussion, the applicants told of the many advantages the changes would make to the pedestrian area, including
elimination of snow removal operations (the driveway would be heated), improved ambience at the Children's Fountain,
noise reductions and increased control of the lodge's parking operations. Sherry Dorward, from Design Workshop,
presented computer -simulated drawings showing the aesthetic improvements. Tom Steinberg, a former council member,
stated his strong support for the request. Steinberg also asked Council to create a one -foot -wide public easement
between the parking structure and Gore Creek to complete the streamwalk from the Covered Bridge park to the Gore
Creek Promenade and International bridge. In response, Pepi Gramshammer, the applicant, said he would not agree
to such a condition and would not build at all if this were attached to his approval. Pepi further stated that he couldn't
run a hotel without parking and in order to compete with other properties, he had to supply additional amenities. He also
stated years ago the pay -in -lieu fee was $3,000. He said presently the fee was almost $17,000, which he felt was
rid us.
A motion was made by Sybiil Navas to approve the request with the conditions as recommended by staff (see attached
memorandum). Mike Jewett seconded the motion.
Paul Johnston questioned specifying the number of spaces at all and felt this should be hammered out in the next
phase(s) of the approval process for the entire project. Paul indicated this was a drastic departure from CCi
restrictions/requirements and should be left to the PEC. Ludwig Kurz indicated given the pedestrian nature of the village,
he would like to see the number of spaces removed at this point. The Council voted 5-1 (Johnston opposed) to approve
the removal of the existing legal non -conforming surface parking area at the Gasthof Gramshammer and subsequently
replace it with a non -conforming underground parking structure,
The eighth item on the agenda was the Town Manager's Report. Bob McLaurin updated the Council on the Public Works
Vcs onal housing proposal. He said that the costs were still being developed, but expressed frustration that costs
nue to increase. He indicated once the final numbers are developed, the staff would evaluate them and develop
a recommendation as to how to proceed. This could include proceeding with the project or looking at other alternatives
for addressing the town's seasonal housing needs. Mike Jewett asked how much had already been spent to this point,
and Bob responded around $30 - $40,000, for plans that could still be used at a later point in time. He also indicated that
regardless of whether the Town decides to move ahead with the proposed project, expenses to change the tunnel
geometries, install the sidewalk through the tunnel, complete storm sewer site work, re -pave, etc., would probably cost
the town $500 - $600,000 anyway and probably should be done. The question was raised about reducing the number
of units, and council members agreed that decision would only increase the cost of the units.
Bob encouraged council members to register for the annual CIVIL conference to be held in Snowmass June 24 - 27,
1997.
There being no further business, a motion was made to adjourn, The meeting was adjourned at approximately 10:50 p.m.
Respectfull submitted,
L
Robert W. Armour, Mayor
Lpl�
Holly McCutcheon, Town Clerk
Minutes prepared by Holly Mccutcheon
(•Names of certain individuals who gave public input may be inaccurate.)
•
u
1y
TOWN OF PAIL
70uth Frontage Road
Vq- , Colorado 81657
970-479-2100
FAX 970479-2157
MEDIA ADVISORY
May 8, 1997
Contact: Suzanne Silverthorn, 479-2115
Community information Office
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL HIGHLIGHTS FOR MAY 6
Work Session Briefs
Council members present: Armour, Foley, Jewett, Kurz, Navas
--Site Visit and Discussion Gasthof Gramshammer Underground Parking Structure
In preparation for the evening meeting, the Council visited the Gasthof Gramshammer
lodge in Vail Village to learn more about a change of non -conforming use request.
Please see evening meeting briefs for more information.
--Eagle County Housing Policies
The Council heard a presentation from Eagle County's David Carter regarding a list of
recommended housing policies and action steps drafted by the county's Housing Task
Force. In asking for input on the document, Carter's appearance yesterday was the last
of seven presentations to municipalities within the county. From there, the document
will be reviewed and/or modified by the County Planning Commission, the Eagle County
Board of Commissioners and back to the Planning Commission for adoption. After that,
Carter said he will ask for endorsement by the municipalities. During public discussion,
Rachel Lenz, representing the Vail Tomorrow Affordable Housing Team, read a
statement of endorsement for inclusionary zoning and other actions recommended in
the county's draft. Lenz said the Vail Tomorrow group is willing to help in any way it can
to support the actions. Also speaking yesterday was Sue Dugan of the Intermountain
neighborhood who wondered if redevelopment of a single family house would trigger
an inclusionary zoning approach as proposed, while Rob LeVine of the Antler's in Vail
said the $60,000 median household income figure contained in the draft may seem like
a misleading figure because of the definition of "household," which includes roommates.
Former Counciimember Tom Steinberg suggested requiring an employee housing unit
for all "trophy" homes above a certain square footage. Other speakers included Chris
Hancock of FirstBank who expressed her bank's interest in creative financing and Ann
Esson of Vail who encouraged the Council to consider applying the housing
suggestions within the Lionshead redevelopment plan. Counciimember
reaction to the plan included the following: Sybil[ Navas applauded the County for
taking the lead on a county -wide plan that would make the policies more equitable from
one municipality to the next. She said she liked a provision for a caretaker requirement
(more)
C�� RECYCLED PAPER
TOV Council Highlights/Add 1
for larger homes and recommended that pay -in -lieu fees associated with a housing
policy be less desirable than other options. Ludwig Kurz also suggested limiting the
option for pay -in -lieu fees, saying the intent is to receive a housing product. He said he
also liked the direction of the plan coming from the county to the municipalities. Kevin
Foley said he was eager to see endorsement and implementation of the plan. Michael
Jewett said he favored allowing square footage incentives for those willing to add
employee housing units to their properties. Jewett also advocated using the Berry
Creek Fifth property for housing, as well as utilizing a portion of the Real Estate .
Transfer Tax for housing. Bob Armour suggested downplaying the possibility of
working with the Bureau of Land Management or the U.S. Forest Service on a housing
partnership, saying the likelihood for such a project is very slim. Armour also wondered
where the funds for the proposed countywide housing trust fund would come from. For
example, If Vail were to return its 15% share of the 1 % county tax (one of the
suggested possibilities), Armour said that kind of money, about $448,000, could
probably be put to better use if spent within the town. Carter said he'll be sending a
letter to the town managers soon to ask them to begin discussing potential funding
ideas within their respective municipalities. The Vail Town Council will take up the
housing discussion again in June when it considers a housing action plan proposed by
Andy Knudtsen, the town's senior housing policy planner. For more information,
contact Knudtsen at 479-2440.
--Booth Falls Update
After hearing a report from Jonathan White of the State Geological Survey on the
rockfall hazard at the Booth Falls Condominiums, the Council directed staff to work with
the condominium association to prepare a cost estimate on several mitigation
approaches recommended by White. One approach would be the construction of an
impact barrier similar to one built near the Hanging Lake rest area in the Glenwood
Canyon. Town Manager Bob McLaurin said the condominium property owners should
be assisted by the town similarly to that which was given during construction of the
Booth Creek. berm in 1989-90. At that time, the town facilitated creation of a special
improvement district. In his report to Council, White recalled the March 26 rockfall
which caused extensive damage to one of the condo units and emphasized the need
for additional protection. During an aerial inspection, he said he saw several loose
rocks on the slopes and rock features with questionable long-term stability. He
reiterated that rockfalls of similar magnitude will continue at the site with the possibility
of serious life -threatening incidents continuing once every three years. Representing
the condominium association, Gerry Greven said the property owners would like to get
something constructed this fall to protect them during subsequent spring seasons. For
more information, contact Russell Forrest in the Community Development Department
at 479-2146.
--Austria Haus Redevelopment
After hearing the pros and cons of a Special Development District (SDD) approach
versus a rezoning approach for a second attempt at a redevelopment proposal for the
Austria Haus, Councilmembers unanimously favored the SDD and directed the
applicant to move forward with a new application. Town Attorney Tom Moorhead had
recommended the SDD approach, saying it was an appropriate redevelopment tool for
(more)
TOV Council Highlights/Add 2
the town, while Jim Lamont of the East Village Homeowners Association asked the
town to select a rezoning approach that he said would allow for a more fair and
equitable treatment of properties. Other audience comments came from Rob Levine, a
former councilmember, who favored the SDD process; attorney Jay Peterson, who also
favored SDD, saying the rezoning approach would only create a "bland" community;
former councilman Tom Steinberg who urged caution in using SDDs so as not to "kill
the golden goose'; Sue Dugan, a community activist, who said she agreed with the
common sense approach advocated by Tom Moorhead; Greg Moffet, chairman of the
Planning and Environmental Commission, who said adding a "human factor" to the SDD
decision -making process makes the development better; and John Schofield of the
Planning and Environmental Commission who said that although the SDD could use
some fine tuning, it is the right too[. Council members agreed the process should be
improved to allow input on parameters up -front before the project is designed. As for
the Austria Haus, next steps in the process include a work session with the Planning
and Environmental Commission on May 19 and a final review on June 9. The Austria
Haus development proposal will be reviewed by the Vail Town Council following the
PEC's review. For more information, contact George Ruther in the Community
Development Department at 479-2145.
--Information Update
• The Council agreed to add its parking pay -in -lieu discussion to its June 3 work session.
--Council Reports
Ludwig Kurz complimented the business and neighborhood representatives who
continue to attend the Monday West Vail Interchange meetings. He said the dialogue
has been well -received.
Kevin Foley toured the new Beaver Creek Performing Arts Center and shared concerns
expressed by several community groups, such as Friends of the Dance, about
affordability of the venue. He also said a rail feasibility study for the abandonment
is progressing. Foley also asked that the Council use the afternoon work session to
answer any questions about ordinances or issues that will be heard at the evening
meeting later in the day.
--Other
Ludwig Kurz said he would be inviting the Council to join him for a tour of the Beaver
Creek Arts Center.
Evening Session Briefs
Council members present: Armour, Foley, Jewett, Johnston, Kurz, Navas
--Citizen Participation
Dick Peterson, a resident of West Vail, appeared before the Council to ask for the
town's help in expanding insurance coverage for a town -owned lot adjoining Buffehr
Creek Park. The land, acquired by the town last year, has been used for years as an
informal dirt track for mountain bike riders. After some initial research, Peterson said
he was having difficulty working out a way to obtain insurance coverage for the bikers
(more)
TOV Council Highlights/Add 3
on his own and suggested the town expand its insurance coverage. The Council
directed staff to research the matter.
Bill Fleischer of Vail Run presented a list of several recommended improvements
including: working more cooperatively with the Colorado Department of Transportation
to improve graveling on the North Frontage Road in the wintertime; pulling weeds from
the 1-70 underpass retaining walls during the summer; adding benches in the winter for
guests waiting to be picked up by private van carriers in Lionshead; and adding another .
pay phone at the Vail Transportation Center.
--Vail Commons Development Agreement
The Council voted 5-1 (Jewett against) to amend the development agreement between
the Town of Vail and City Market by extending the completion date of the commercial
component from July 1, 1997, to September 1, 1997. The request was made following
several unanticipated delays over the course of construction. The current schedule is
as follows: supermarket opening by May 21; the exterior components of the adjoining
retail rental areas completed by June 15; employee housing units completed by June
30; and completion of the day care component by June 30. During discussion,
Councilman Michael Jewett continued to voice his opposition to the project, which
resulted in his vote against the extension. For more information, contact Town Attorney •
Tom Moorhead at 479-2107.
--Emergency Ordinance To Allow for Temporary Signage in West Vail
The Council voted 6-0 to approve an emergency ordinance that allows for the
placement of temporary on -site signs, banners, etc., for businesses directly impacted by
the West Vail roundabout construction. The measure, which includes a waiver of the
town's sign application fees, becomes effective immediately and extends to Nov. 1.
Several merchants had requested the action to help increase visibility of the West Vail
business district during the summer -long construction. For more information, contact
Pam Srandmeyer, assistant town manager, at 479-2113.
--Vail Run Tennis Bubble Appeal
The Council voted 6-0 to overturn a staff decision interpretation that found the Vail Run
tennis bubble to be a seasonal structure, thus, requiring removal of the bubble during
the summer months. Instead, the Council found the bubble to be a recreational
structure that could remain standing'year-round. The issue surfaced when the
applicant applied for an amendment to a Special Development District to allow the
current tennis courts to be converted to other recreational uses. For more information,
contact Dominic Mauriello in the Community Development Department at 479-2148. 0
--Amendment of Special Development District #5 (Vail Run and Simba Run)
The Council voted 6-0 on first reading to amend the SDD to allow the Vail Run tennis
bubble to be converted to other recreational uses. For more information, contact
Dominic Mauriello in the Community Development Department at 479-2148.
--Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan
After hearing an update on the Lionshead redevelopment master plan, the Council
(more)
TOV Council Highlights/Add 4
voted 6-0 to forward all 173 citizen -based "wish list" ideas to the consultant, Design
Workshop, for additional analysis. The Council also voted to approve a process and
citizen participation schedule for step three of the five -step process: "Alternatives
Analysis and Selection of Preferred Alternative." During public discussion last night,
Lucian Layne, a part-time resident of Vantage Point condominiums, asked the Council
to remove "wish list" item 153 because, in his words, it would be like giving out a blank
check. Response 153 suggests, among other things, rezoning the Lionshead parking
structure to allow for a wide variety of uses of both private and public natures. David
Corbin, representing Vail Associates, Rob LeVine of Antler's Lodge, and Phil Holbert,
also a part-time resident of Vantage Point, urged the Council to retain all wish list items
for additional review. Corbin and the others disputed Layne's reasoning that response
153 is inappropriate, reminding the Council that a master plan is not an approval for any
particular development concept. Following up on Corbin's comment, LeVine said he
hoped the master plan blueprint would include creative incentives for redevelopment so
actions could be undertaken within the next five years rather than 10 or 15 years down
the road. Step three of the process will include studies on physical feasibility and
qualitative analysis of the 173 ideas, market/financial feasibility and designation of
public view corridors, if any. For more information, contact Susan Connelly in the
Community Development Department at 479-2140.
--Gasthof Gramshammer Underground Parking Structure
The Council voted 5-1 (Johnston opposed) to approve the removal of an existing legal
non -conforming surface parking area at the Gasthof Gramshammer and subsequently
replace it with a non -conforming underground parking structure. During discussion, the
applicants told of the many advantages the changes would make to the pedestrian
area, including elimination of snow removal operations (the driveway would be heated),
improved ambience at the Children's Fountain, noise reductions and increased control
of the lodge's parking operations. Tom Steinberg, a former councilmember, stated his
strong support for the request. Steinberg also asked Council to create a one -foot -wide
public easement between the parking structure and Gore Creek to complete the
streamwalk from the Covered Bridge park to the Gore Creek promenade and
International bridge. In response, Pepi Gramshammer, the applicant, said he would not
agree to such a condition. For more information, contact George Ruther in the
Community Development Department at 479-2145.
--Town Manager's Report
Bob McLaurin updated the Council on the Public Works seasonal housing proposal. He
said that the costs were still being developed, but expressed frustration that costs
continue to increase. He indicated once the final numbers are developed, the staff
would evaluate them and develop a recommendation as to how to proceed. This could
include proceeding with the project or looking at other alternatives for addressing the
town's seasonal housing needs.
McLaurin also encouraged Council to register for the annual Colorado Municipal
League Conference to be held in Snowmass, June 24-27.
(more)
TOV Council Highlights/Add 5
UPCOMING DISCUSSION TOPICS
May 13 Work Session
PEC/DRB Review
Joe Russell 15 Year Anniversary
May 20 Work Session
PEC Review
Vail Valley Arts Council Presentation
Resorts CD Information Kiosks
Alpine Garden Education Center Discussion of Parking Funding Commitment
May 20 Evening Meeting
Second Reading, Ordinance #10, Vail Run SDD An, ,dment
May 27 Work Session
DRB Review
y
TOWN OF VAIL
South Frontage Road
1, Colorado 81657
970-479-2100
FAX 970-479-2157
MEDIA ADVISORY
May 14, 1997
Contact: Suzanne Silverthorn, 479-2115
Community Information Office
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL HIGHLIGHTS FOR MAY 13
Work Session Briefs.
Council members present: Armour, Foley, Johnston, Kurz, Navas
--Joe Russell, 15 Year Anniversary
Joe Russell, acting operations lieutenant for the Police Department, was recognized for
15 years of employment with the town.
--PEC/DRB Review
During a review of the most recent PEC and DRB meetings, Councilmember Paul
Johnston inquired about some long-standing code violations at Apollo Park and
suggested finding a way to bring closure to the issue. Town Attorney Tom Moorhead
agreed to follow up.
--Development Review Improvement Process (DRIP)
The Council -reviewed the first phase of an ongoing interdepartmental effort to clarify
and consolidate the town's development standards. Phase one addresses three areas:
residential access, driveway and parking; residential fire department access; and
parking fot design. The draft document also clarifies when a geologic hazard report
must be submitted. After a brief discussion, the Council directed staff to prepare code
amendments and a document for final review by the Planning and Environmental
Commission and Town Council. In the next phase, departments will analyze the
geologic hazard section of the code to determine if any of those regulations need
modification. The internal review process began more than a year ago to clarity
unwritten standards and conflicts between existing codes. When complete, the
departments hope to create a townwide development review process that is predictable,
efficient and fair, with standards that are clear, concise and codified. For more
information, contact Dominic Mauriello in the Community Development Department at
479-2148.
(more)
0 RECYCL£APAPER
TOV Highlights/Addt
--Vail Tomorrow
Tweed Kezziah and Susan Watkins, facilitators for Vail Tomorrow, appeared before the
Council to provide an update on the "All Teams" meeting scheduled for later in the day.
The meeting was to be used to create a strategy for working with implementing
agencies to bring the 40 actions endorsed by Vail Tomorrow on line. Watkins said the
project is at its "defining moment" in moving from discussion to action.
--Information Update
Andy Knudtsen, senior housing policy planner, provided the Council with an update on
the fourth housing lottery for Vail Commons. Lottery applications are due May 20, with
the lottery to follow on May 22. Knudtsen said that while six applicants remain on a
reserve list from previous lotteries, none of them qualify for the higher -priced three -
bedroom units, which range from $164,000 to $168,000. (Two are currently
available).That prompted a question from Councilmember Michael Jewett, who
wondered if the town should avoid constructing three -bedroom units in the future.
Knudtsen said it would most likely depend on the priority of the Council and its desired
target market. During configuration of the Vail Commons units, for example, the
Council had advocated a mix of two -and three -bedroom units to attract families.
Councilmember Paul Johnston said two -bedrooms plus a loft might be an option to
pursue with future developments. If the lottery isn't successful in generating quaijed
buyers for the three -bedroom units, Knudtsen said the Council could revisit its desire to
limit the project to first-time home buyers. Another option, advocated by Town Manager
Bob McLaurin, is the "fifth tier" from the first lottery which would allow employers --such
as the Town of Vail --to purchase the units. For more information, contact Knudtsen at
479-2440.
Next, the Council reviewed its contingency budget and a follow-up sheet format.
Town Manager Bob McLaurin said bids are being taking on a construction project to
heatthe exterior center steps at the Vail Transportation Center. Costs should be
available by the end of the month. Funding would come from dollars allocated for
capital improvements associated with the 99 World Alpine Ski Championships.
--Council Reports
Paul Johnston gave a report on last week's meeting of the Eagle County Recreation
Authority (Berry Creek Fifth Filing). He said the discussion focused on the possibility of
adding to the group's membership to attract more operating capital to help with
upgrades needed at the equestrian center. Possible new players include Bacheiors
Gulch, Edwards and the Western Eagle County Recreation District, he said. I,,
Ludwig Kurz attended a meeting of the World class resort Vail Tomorrow team. He
said discussion centered on two items: guest services and lodging upgrades. Kurz also
attended the regular meeting of the West Vail interchange project and said those who
attend continue to be pleased with the way the project is proceeding,
(more)
TOV Highlights/Add2
Bob Armour indicated the Eagle Valley Leadership Coalition was seeking feedback
from the Vail Town Council as well as other municipalities on the possibility of a funding
source for a countywide housing trust fund. The coalition currently proposes that each
municipality contribute all of their share of the 1 percent county sales tax that is
returned to the towns. Reaction from the Council was mixed. Reaction to a coalition
request to help fund a countywide public opinion survey on the housing trust fund issue
also was mixed.
--Other
Councilman Paul Johnston, noting that the parking pay -in -lieu discussion was coming
up on a future agenda, suggested repealing the measure as an alternative. A repeal
would create an immediate incentive for redevelopment, he said, that people would
easily compute. He also suggested the town take a firm stand in requiring development
review applicants to clean-up and maintain their properties as a condition of approval.
The parking pay -in -lieu discussion will take place at the June 3 work session.
UPCOMING DISCUSSION TOPICS
May 20 Work Session
PEC Review
Vail Valley Arts Council Presentation
Resorts CD Information Kiosks
Alpine Garden Education Center Discussion of Parking Funding Commitment
Lionshead Public View Corridor Methodology
May 20 Evening Meeting
Second Reading, Ordinance #10, Vail Run SDD Amendment
First Reading, Ordinance #11, Town of Vail Conveyance of Vail Commons Unit Fee
Title to Mountain Valley Developmental Services
May 27.Work'Session
DRB Review
June 3 Work Session
Liquor Board Interviews
Pay -in -Lieu Parking
June 3 Evening Meeting
•Appointment of Liquor Board Members
Second Reading, Ordinance # 10, Authorizing Sale of Vail Commons Unit
TOWN OF VAIL
7_5 °^uth Frontage .Road
�*:olorado 81657 MEDIA ADVISORY
970-479-2100
FAX 970-479-2157 May 21, 1997
Contact: Suzanne Silverthorn, 479-2115
Community Information Officer
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL HIGHLIGHTS FOR MAY 20
Work Session Briefs
Council members present: Armour, Foley, Johnston, Jewett, Navas
--Vail Valley Arts Council Presentation
Councilmembers heard a brief overview of Vail Valley Arts Council activities from
Marilyn McCray, director. The overview, which included a slide presentation on the
Council's various programs (photography workshops, lecture series, arts festivals and
the May Gallery in the Vilar Center for the Arts at Beaver Creek), is part of an ongoing
"community conversation" project funded by a grant from the State Council on the Arts.
.
As a result of the project, McCray said a committee had been formed to seek out
venues within the town of Vail for Arts Council -sponsored panels and workshops.
--Information Kiosk
The Council voted 5-0 to allow a proposal to move through the Design Review Board
process for the placement of two information kiosks on Town of Vail property as a
demonstration project through the 1997M ski season. During discussion, Doug
Worful of Resorts CD company said the kiosks would provide a way to respond to
visitor complaints about lack of information in Vail on a 24-hour basis, He said the
technology would provide locator maps, information from advertisers and would enable
telephone reservations from the site, among -other options. Worful proposes placement
of the demonstration units near the Covered Bridge in Vail Village and in the Lionshead
"bunker" near the bus stop. In response, Councilman Kevin Foley expressed concerns
about vandalism of the units and suggested the "bunker" be cleaned up, while
Councilman Michael Jewett expressed concern about possible placement of the unit
near the Covered Bridge, saying it might clutter the area. Next steps include a
presentation to the Design Review Board upon receipt of a formal application. For
more information, contact Dirk Mason in the Community Development. Department at
go 479-2128.
--PEC Review & Austria Haus Update
The Council heard an overview of a work session on the Austria Haus Special
Development District (SDD) application which was heard by the Planning and
Environmental Commission on May 19. George Ruther, town planner, outlined
modifications to the SDD as proposed by the applicant:
(more)
L,• RECYCLEDPRPER
TOV Council Highlights/Adds
Current Proposal Previous PronQWl Denied by Town Council
18 club units 22 club units
25 hotel rooms 28 hotel rooms
No lock -off units 21 lock -off units
35,240 sq. ft. GRFA 40,429 sq. ft. GRFA
48 ft. building height 56.5 ft. building height
5,582 sq. ft. commercial 4,469 sq. ft, commercial
61 spaces required 65 spaces required
Also, a meeting room, food service pantry and an outdoor pool have been added to the
revised proposal, Ruther said. The Council denied the original SDD proposal on'April
15 and asked that the project be scaled -down. Council reaction to the revised SDD
proposal outlined yesterday included concerns by Councilman Kevin Foley regarding
loading and delivery issues at the site. For more information, contact George Ruther
(479-2145) or Susan Connelly (479-2140) in the Cr iunity Development Department.
--Vail Alpine Garden Foundation Parking Structure Request
Councilmembers expressed little to no interest in a request by the Vail Alpine Garden
Foundation to finance an underground parking structure on the soccer field parking lot
as part of the Garden's proposed $4.15 million Education Center. Helen Fritch,
representing the foundation, had asked for the town's help in funding a 100-space
underground parking garage to replace the 65 surface spaces that would be lost'as a
result of the foundation's latest site plan. In response, Councilmembers complimented
Fritch on the foundation's willingness to address a larger community need, but said the
town wasn't interested in bearing the brunt of the cost of the underground structure.
Mayor Bob Armour suggested the group move forward with an earlier site plan which
shows a smaller building and retains the 65 parking spaces on the surface. Fritch
continued to ask for the town's support in convening possible funding partners, such as
the Vail Recreation District, Vail Associates and Vail Valley Foundation, to discuss a
possible public -private partnership. Council members expressed their support for Town
of Vail staff_ to work with the foundation,to identify other partners and funding
opportunities. This may occur during the foundation's fund-raising efforts. For more
information, contact George Ruther, 479-2145, or Susan Connelly, 479-2140, in the
Community Development Department, or Tom Moorhead, 479-2107.
--Public View Corridor Methodology and Criteria for the l-ionshead Redevelopment
Master Plan and Study Area
The Council approved a methodology and criteria for designation of public view
corridors (if any) as part of the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan process.
(more)
TOV Council HighlightslAdd2
The criteria will draw upon the "view corridors" section within the town code which was
used to designate five public view corridors in Vail Village. Currently, there are no
public view corridors in Lionshead. Prioritization of public view corridor candidates for
Lionshead will be handled through a "critical attributes" classification system that
includes rankings on: foreground, middleground, background, edges, color/texture and
landmarks or specific elements. Citizen input will be used, as well, during a series of
public forums and walking tours to review potential view corridors and record
preferences. 'During discussion yesterday, David Corbin, vice president of Vail Resorts
Development Co., expressed support for the methodology and criteria, suggesting the
public view corridors be defined in a narrow and conservative fashion so as not to
preclude opportunities for new decks, new exteriors and other redevelopment
possibilities that might be possible in the future. Please see the news release issued
May 12 for a complete schedule of the public view corridor process, or contact Dominic
Mauriello, 479-2148, or Susan Connelly, 479-2140, in the Community Development
Department for more information.
Evening Meeting Briefs
Council members present: Armour, Foley, Jewett, Navas
--Citizen Participation
. There was no citizen participation.
--Ordinance No. 11, Conveyance of Vail Commons Unit B-3 Fee Title to Mountain
Valley Developmental Services
The Council voted 4-0 to approve on first reading an ordinance authorizing the
conveyance of a Vail Commons unit fee title from the Town of Vail to Mountain Valley
Developmental Services. The town had been asked by the developer, Warner
Development, Inc., to serve as an intermediary for the purchase of unit B-3 by Mountain
Valley. Mountain Valley serves residents with developmental. disabilities and qualifies
by state and federal law as an eligible owner/occupant for purchase of a Vail Commons
unit. Mountain Valley had successfully participated in one of the recent lotteries for a
three -bedroom unit at the Vail Commons site. Mountain Valley has agreed to place no
more than three residents in the unit at any one time. For more information, contact
Andy Knudtsen in the Community Development Department at 479-2440.
--Ordinance No. 10, Amendment to Special Development District #5 (Vail Run and
Simba Run)
The Council voted 4-0 on second reading to amend a Special Development District
(SDD) to allow the tennis courts at Vail Run to be converted to other recreational uses.
Specifically, the applicant, Vail Run Condominium Association, had requested that the
two covered tennis courts be converted to other recreational uses as permitted in the
accessory uses section of the SDD. The Association intends to create a ski simulator
and training facility within the structure.
(more)
TOV Council Highlights/Add3
--Announcements
The May 27 work session is cancelled due to lack of agenda items.
Pete Seibert is in Houston, Texas, visiting the art studio of Jesus Morales in an effort to
refine a concept for the Seibert Circle art piece, sponsored by the Art In Public Places
project.
Construction for the Vail Village Club and Lodge at Vail will occur indoors only
throughout the holiday weekend.
--Council Reports
Bob Armour reported on the Vail Tomorrow All -Teams meeting on May 13 and a recent
meeting of the Eagle Valley Leadership Coalition. He also acknowledged appearances
at the butterfly launch, town clean-up, presentation of the youth recognition award and
City Market ribbon cutting.
--Other
Councilmember Sybill Navas asked about the status of the Wall Street building.
Councilmember Kevin Foley encouraged participation at the upcoming Jeep
Whitewater Festival.
--Town Manager's Report 0
Filling in for Bob McLaurin, Assistant Town Manager Pam Brandmeyer indicated the
weekly meetings with the West Vail business community continue to be productive.
The next meeting will take place on Tuesday, May 27, from 5:15 to 6 p.m. at the West
Vail Lodge.
UPCOMING DISCUSSION TOPICS
May 27 Work Session
No meeting
June 3 Work Session
Mark Allen 10 Year Anniversary
Charlie Turnbull 20 Year Anniversary
Liquor Board Interviews
Pay -in -Lieu Parking Discussion
June 3 Evening Meeting
Liquor Board Appointments
Second Reading, Ordinance No. 11, Authorizing Sale of Vail Commons Unit
Resolution on Mutual Aide Fire Agreement
June 10 Work Session
PEC/DRB Review
Amplified Sound Site Visits
Lionshead Update