HomeMy WebLinkAbout1999-12-21 Town Council MinutesVAIL TOWN COUNCIL - MINUTES
TUESDAY, December 21, 1999
0:00 P.M.
The regular meeting of the Vail Town Council was held in the Town Council Chambers on Tuesday,
December 21, 1999. The meeting was called to order at approximately 7:00 P.M.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT:Ludwig Kurz, Mayor
Sybill Navas, Mayor Pro -Tern
Rod Slifer
Chuck Ogilby
Kevin Foley
Diana Donovan
COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT: Greg Moffet
STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT: Bob McLaurin, Town Manager
Tom Moorhead, Town Attorney
Pam Brandmeyer, Assistant Town Manager
The first item on the agenda was Citizen Participation. There was no citizen participation.
The second item on the agenda was the consent agenda: Ordinance No. 36, Series of 1999, an
ordinance repealing and reenacting Title 10, Chapter 1; adopting by reference the 1998 Edition of the
lternational Mechanical Code, the 1997 Editions of the Uniform Building Code, the Uniform Fire
ode, the Uniform Code for the abatement of dangerous buildings, the Uniform Mechanical Code,
and the International Plumbing Code; the 4-wo 1999 Edition of the National Electric Code; the 1995
edition of the Model Energy Code, and the 1994 Edition of the Uniform Plumbing Code, and, with
regard to the above -described codes, adopting certain appendices, setting forth certain amendments
thereto, and setting forth details in regard thereto. Sybill Navas moved to approve on second reading,
Ordinance No. 36, Series of 1999, and Kevin Foley seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the
motion was passed unanimously, 6-0.
The third item on the agenda was Resolution No. 21, Series of 1999, a resolution authorizing a
checking account for the Vail Local Marketing District. Steve Thompson, Finance Director, stated that
this is a resolution to open a bank account for the Vail Local Marketing District. He said that this
would keep the monies for the Vail Local Marketing District and Town of Vail separate. Mayor Kurz
said the four designated signers on this account are as follows; Steve Thompson, Christine Stouder,
Robert McLaurin, and Pamela Brandmeyer. Kevin Foley moved to approve Resolution No. 21, Series
of 1999, and Council member Sybill Navas seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the motion
was passed unanimously, 6-0.
The fourth item on the agenda was the first reading of Ordinance No. 37, Series of 1999,
first reading of an ordinance amending the official zoning map for the Town of Vail in accordance with
Title 12, Zoning Regulations, Chapter 5, Zoning Map; Rezoning Lot 34, Buffehr Creek Subdivision
from primary secondary (ps) district to outdoor recreation district. Allison Ochs, Town Planner, said in
.1996, the Town of Vail purchased Lot 34, Buffehr Creek Subdivision from an adjacent property
owner. This lot had been identified in the Comprehensive Open Lands Plan as a high priority for
acquisition to be used in the expansion of Buffehr Creek Park. Though a Conditional Use Permit is
Vail "down Council Minutes December 21, 1999 1
required for a park in both the Primary/Secondary and Outdoor Recreation Zone Districts, the Town
is requesting this rezoning so that in the future Lot 34 can be considered for Designated Open Space
atus, as is the existing Buffehr Creek Park. Kevin Foley moved to approve on first reading
Wrdinance
No. 37, Series of 1999, and Rod Slifer seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the
motion was passed unanimously, 6-0, subject to the following findings: 1. That the proposed zoning
is suitable with the existing land use on the site and adjacent uses. 2. That the rezoning does not
prevent a convenient workable relationship with land uses consistent with municipal objectives. 3.
That the rezoning provides for the growth of an orderly, viable community. 4. That the proposed
rezoning is consistent with the Land Use Plan.
The fifth item on the agenda was the second reading of Ordinance No. 34, Series of 1999, an
ordinance making supplemental appropriation and budget adjustments from the Town of Vail general
fund, capital projects fund, and health insurance fund of the 1999 budget and the financial plan for the
Town of Vail, Colorado; and authorizing the expenditures of said appropriations as set forth herein;
and setting forth details in regard thereto. Steve Thompson, Finance Director, said three items had
been added since the first reading of this ordinance:
1. Capital lease revenue and expenses for new leases entered into during 1999. Governmental
budgeting procedures require budgeting an equal revenue and expense for the principal portion of
new capital leases.
2. $20,000 additional expense for communication towers to provide emergency radio service in East
Vail.
3. An increase of $20,000 in both revenue and expense for revised health insurance estimates.
jWybil Navas made a motion to approve on second reading, Ordinance No. 34, Series of 1999, and
evin Foley seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the motion was passed unanimously, 6-0.
The sixth item on the agenda was the second reading of Ordinance No. 35, Series 1999, an
ordinance amending the official zoning map for the Town of Vail in accordance with Title 12, Zoning
Regulations, Chapter 5, Zoning Map; applying zone district designations to property previously owned
by the United States Forest Service and transferred to the Town of Vail pursuant to the Land
Ownership Adjustment Agreement to primary/secondary residential district for property located at
Rockledge Road/portions of United States Forest Service Lot 3, totaling 1.78 acres, based upon the
proposed final plat (not yet recorded) of a road/portions of United States Forest Service Lot 3, totaling
1.78 acres, based upon the proposed final plat (not yet recorded) of a replat of a portion of Block 7,
Vail Village first filing, and Lot 2 of Raether Minor Subdivision prepared by Dennis Shelhorn as job no.
0332-002; and applying zone district designations to property previously owned by the United States
Forest Service and transferred to the Town of Vail pursuant to the Land Ownership Adjustment
Agreement to primary I secondary residential district and two-family residential district for property
located at Ptarmigan Road /government lot 2 (1.66 acres) and lot 3 (4.252 acres) created by a survey
done in 1995 under the authority of the Bureau of Land Management Cadastral Survey.
Tom Moorhead, Town Attorney, said this is the final step for completion of the Land Ownership
Adjustment Agreement, which the Town entered into with the United States Forest Service 2 years
ago. The Town of Vail acquired property within the Forest Service in the area of Rockledge Road and
Ptarmigan Road that had encroachments of residential properties that had been previously Forest
0 Service property and subsequently it was transferred to the Town of Vail. The Town of Vail is now in
he process of transferring this property to individual adjacent property owners. Additionally this will
reserve a boundary on the Town of Vail's edges between Forest Service Property and the recreation.
Vail Town Council Minutes December 21, 1999
The Town Council passed ordinance #30 and 31, Series 1999, with one contingency: that the
property would be rezoned. There was one change since the first reading that referred to Section 8,
wnship 5 South, Range 80 West of the Sixth Principal Meridian: this area was rezoned as a
Woco-family
Residential District which takes the small slivers of land, which are infringements, and
makes those zone districts the same as that of the remaining lots. In regard to the property on
Ptarmigan Road: the Town of Vail realizes 1.2 million dollars in addition to resolving the
encroachments and placing a conservation easement on the 4 acres. The adjoining property owners
as a group are funding this. For the sale of Rockledge, the Town of Vail will be realizing 1.4 million
dollars for the encroachments. Rod Slifer moved to approve the second reading of Ordinance No. 36,
Series of 1999, and Council member Chuck Ogilby seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the
motion was passed 4-2, with Council members Kevin Foley and Diana Donovan opposing. Kevin
Foley opposed because he did not feel he had enough information given to him to vote in favor. Also,
Kevin stated he believed the Town could have received more revenue for the sales. Diana Donovan
opposed because she does not agree that land purchased through the land ownership adjustment
plan should be rezoned to afford greater GRFA for the new owners.
The seventh item on the agenda was Resolution No. 22, Series of 1999, Valley -wide Census 2000
Complete Count Committee. Pam Brandmeyer, Assistant Town Manager, stated we are performing a
united front with all municipalities in Eagle County, as well as Eagle County. The Town of Vail Census
will be done in person. From Dowd Junction west it will be done by way of mail. This year they will be
starting this process no later than March 1, 2000, possibly as early as the second week in February
and will be paying a starting wage of $15.00 per hour. Kevin Foley made a motion to approve
Resolution No. 22, Series of 1999, and Council member Sybill Navas seconded the motion. A vote
was taken and the motion was passed unanimously, 6-0.
Ohe eighth item on the agenda was the appointment of two additional members to the Vail Local
Marketing District Advisory Board. Sybill Navas moved to appoint Bill O'Connell and Sally Hanlon to
the Vail Local Marketing Advisory Board, and Kevin Foley seconded the motion. A vote was taken
and the motion was passed unanimously, 6-0.
The ninth item on the agenda was a discussion of the redevelopment proposal for the Vail Village
Inn. The purpose of the meeting is to analyze view impacts and to provide a follow-up to the
questions raised by Council members on Tuesday, December 7th. The follow-up report and
discussion included an explanation of the Traffic Impact Analysis prepared for the proposal by the
traffic -consulting firm of Felsburg, Holt & Ullevig. George Ruther, Senior Planner, handed out a
revised sun/shade analysis for the hotel and a memorandum from the staff. He then responded to
numerous questions and issues that arose from the December 7 and 14 work session meetings with
regard to the proposed Vail Plaza Hotel.
Jay Peterson stated that the two areas of concern are the need for a turning lane on Vail Road and
access to the loading area off of the frontage road. Larry Lang, Transportation Engineering Firm, said
when evaluating traffic operations along Vail Road they found that operationally the left turn lane
would operate at a level of service B. This means there will be delays ranging from 10 to 15 seconds
per vehicle. Taking their evaluation further; they found no indication that que-ing would be needed.
Mr. Silfer said a lot of traffic is generated at the four way. Building a hotel on this site would seem to
aenerate enough traffic to require a third land. He than asked if there was enough room to
ccommodate three lanes?
Vail Town Council Minutes December 21, 1999
Jay Peterson said there is not sufficient room to restripe and they would have to widen the road on
both sides. They would also lose a small amount of land scaping to accommodate a third lane.
Wr. Hall said he was comfortable with what is being proposed.
Mr. McLaurin suggested that the Council might want to require the developer to post a bond and
operate a year and see how the traffic works, then add the additional lane if needed.
Jim Lamont said that Greg Hall has some great ideas regarding the addition of a turning lane. Mr.
Lamont liked the idea of going down Vail Road and having a grand entrance to all the grand hotels.
He cautioned Council to look at the view remaining and about how we sculpt the mass and height to
give some feeling of openness.
Chuck Lipcon, a condominium owner at the Vail Gateway, said the residential owners are concerned
for many reasons. If this hotel is approved this will put the Gateway into permanent shade. He said
he would be concerned that the heating system in the Gateway would not be sufficient enough to
heat the building during the winter. The other concern is that the traffic at certain times would not get
backed up to 1-70. Additionally, he stated all access from the Gateway to the Village would be cut off
if this hotel was built.
Jay Peterson said the Gateway sees sunlight 10 months out of the year. This is the one building in
the Town of Vail that you have to drive to.
Herman Staufer stated that we have not had any new hotel rooms for a long time, in fact we have lost
40lot of hotel rooms. Here is a company willing to rejuvenate the hotel business. Let's all get together
and support this project. We need a 5 star hotel.
Mr. Kurz said the major issue is Vail Road and the loading and delivery access.
Mr. Peterson said the last approval was that all the loading would be in the area down Vail
Road and would back into the Sonnenalp. The truck could remain there for 35 to 50 seconds at the
worst case scenario.
Mr. Ogilby said he liked this project and said it would be good for the economy. He recommended:
1. Reconfigure the front of the building on Vail Road to make room for a turning lane.
2. Maximize the landscaping
3. Keep the Cupula on top of elevator shaft. Keep it as an architectural feature.
4. Would like to see employee housing on site.
Ms. Donovan said the view corridor was of concern. Agreed with Chuck on Vail Road. This type of
zoning cannot be allowed any closer to the village. This hotel is monstrous. She would like to see
more employee housing but is not willing to allow more height. She would require all the properties on
this SDD to use this loading and delivery place. If you have to go out of town to provide employee
housing you will need to provide transportation back to town. The green spaces are too small. She
also expressed concern about the setbacks.
4wr. Slifer said the 21 conditions that the planning department has listed are quite appropriate. He
els a third turning land is needed, although he does like the idea of moving the sidewalk in.
Retaining the green space is a great idea.
Vail Town Council Minutes December 21, 1999 4
Ms. Navas expressed concerns about the traffic. She felt a third lane was needed and would like to
e the employee housing in the Town of Vail. Considering the trade off, Ms. Navas felt the extra
eight is worth it. She asked for clarification on whether the conference rooms were undersized.
Navas wanted more understanding of the sun shade analysis and asked if the pool was in or out of
the sun?
Mr. Peterson said the pool was always in the sun. From the Town of Vail's view point, the bigger the
conference rooms the better as this will bring more people to the village but from the hotel's view
point, the conference area is already too large.
Mr. Peterson said he liked the idea of posting a bond and waiting a year to see if a third lane was
needed.
Mr. Kurz said we need to move in the direction of development. This is not going to be perfect. But in
terms of the changes made over the last year, this is something that the Town needs in relationship to
a hotel but he was still concerned that two lanes would not work. He said he is now satisfied that the
loading and delivery will work. He made mention that the Hyatt took out 18 hotel rooms to add more
spa space and said they are considering taking out even more rooms. He would consider adding
height to the building in the one section. He said the employee housing needs to be in the Town of
Vail. If not in the Town of Vail, the number of units required for the overall project should be
increased.
George Ruther asked if Council was ready to move forward with the 1st reading of the ordinance on
Wanuary 4, 2000. The Council indicated it was.
Tenth item on the agenda was the Town Manager's Report.
As there was no further business, a motion was made by Kevin Foley to adjourn the meeting and
Sybill Navas seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the motion passed unanimously, 6-0.
The meeting,#ar-„g�iIourned at 9:30 p.m.
"ec"P 11 �'. AIII . Respectfully submitted,
Ludwig Kurz Mayo TTEST:
Lorelej Donaldson
Town Clerk
Minutes taken by Beth Salter
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Vail Town Council Minutes December 21, 1999
Printed by Lorelei Donaldson 12/27/99 1:O8pm
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From: Suzanne Silverthorn
To: DIST LIST GROUP
Subject: Council_)3igh-l-i h
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T=== ___=====12/22/99==2 58pm__________ _______
TOWN COUNCIL HIGHLIGHTS FOR DECEMBER 21
cil members present: Donovan, Foley, Kurz, Moffet, Navas, Ogilby, Slifer
--Buffehr Creek Park Expansion and Conceptual Design
The Council heard an update from Gregg Barrie, one of the town's landscape
architects, on a conceptual design plan for the 1.2 acre Buffehr Creek Park
on the north side of I-70 in West Vail. The design incorporates
neighborhood suggestions to maintain a naturalized area with trees, shrubs
and flowers; retention of a turf area; creation of a mid -sized playground;
installation of picnic tables; creation of a walking path through the park
from Chamonix Road; and a small restroom. The park area was expanded in
1996 when the town acquired an adjacent parcel, known as lot 34. Since
then, Barrie has been working with the neighborhood to design modest
improvements to the park. The plan is currently moving through the Planning
and Environmental Commission and the Design Review Board approval process.
Yesterday, Barrie said the estimated cost for the improvements is $310,000,
well above the $150,000 budgeted for the project. The original cost
estimate was based on the town's last park project, which was 9 years ago,
he said. Councilmembers expressed support for the park's design, although
Diana Donovan advocated the need for more park uses townwide for kids 12 and
up, such as basketball hoops. Councilman Rod Slifer suggested placing
basketball hoops on the top deck of the parking structures during the
summer, while Sybill Navas reminded fellow Councilmembers of an opportunity
to convert the Booth Creek tennis court site to a basketball court. For
more information, contact Barrie at 479-2337.
--Vail Plaza Hotel Site Visit
In preparation for the evening meeting, the Council viewed the Vail Plaza
el property from the Main Vail roundabout area to become oriented with
sting mountain views. See evening meeting briefs for details.
0 B Report
ng a recap of the Dec. 15 Design Review Board meeting, Councilman Kevin
Foley inquired about an application for a road extension by the Potato Patch
Club Condominium Association as well as a staff approval for outdoor tables,
chairs and umbrellas at the Vail Mountain Adventure Center. Councilmembers
were advised of an additional staff approval to extend a temporary parking
approval in the Golf Course neighborhood to allow additional time for
resolution of a parking dispute between owners of a duplex.
--Ford Park Managed Parking Calendar Update for Summer 2000
After much discussion, the Council voted 7-0 to approve a Ford Park managed
parking calendar for summer 2000 in accordance with the 1997 Ford Park
Management Plan. The calendar identifies 37 days during the summer in which
$5 close -in parking will be offered at the Ford Park lot to provide parking
equity when multiple events are offered at the park on the same day. The
calendar was assembled by representatives from the park's user groups: Town
of Vail, Vail Recreation District, Vail Valley Foundation, Vail Alpine
Gardens and Bravo! Colorado Music Festival. During discussion,
Councilmembers Chuck Ogilby and Rod Slifer advocated solutions other than
paid parking to accommodate the need for increased capacity, such as
allowing users to park on the Frontage Road. But Councilman Kevin Foley,
who helped negotiate the proposed summer parking calendar, reiterated the
need for some form of managed parking at Ford Park. Otherwise, he said,
it's a free-for-all. And while $5 is an inexpensive price to pay for
close -in parking (which is used to offset costs associated with managed
parking), Foley said he'd prefer the town budget funds in the future to
subsidize the parking management program, thereby allowing patrons to use
the Ford Park lot for free. Mayor Ludwig Kurz successfully encouraged the
Council to continue with the proposal for another season, noting that Ford
ak patrons have a choice regarding the option of free parking in the
ucture versus paid parking close -in. Councilmember Sybill Navas raised
c istency concerns, noting it could be perceived as unfair to allow free
I g
in for one event and not another. In agreeing to move forward with the
c ndar, Councilmembers asked that bus service be improved during the peak
days as well as heightened efforts to promote the free parking options. For
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pore information, contact Pam Brandmeyer, assistant town manager, at
479-2113.
--Chalet Road Use For Valet parking for Winter 1999/2000
16Council voted 6-1 (Moffet against) to deny a request by Mountain Valet
use Chalet Road as a staging area for public valet parking services at
den Peak. Noting an excerpt from the town's streetscape master plan
r mmending elimination of winter -time parking on Chalet Road, as well as
borhood opposition, Councilmembers suggested the company work with Vail
R its and/or owners of other nearby private parking lots to discuss
potential partnership opportunities. For more information, contact Greg
Hall, Public Works/Transportation director, at 479-2160.
--Request for Use of Dobson Arena for Inc. 500 Follow -Up
The Council voted 7-0 to retain its two remaining days of time at Dobson
Arena in response to a request on behalf of the Inc. 500 conference,
scheduled for July 12-14, an estimated subsidy of $3,500. Instead,
Councilmembers suggested showing the town's support for the event in other
ways. The conference will draw more than 700 attendees from the top 500
small to medium-sized companies from across the country who will spend an
estimated $2 million in Vail over the three days. The Vail Recreation
District, which leases Dobson Arena from the Town of Vail, has a contractual
agreement allowing the town to designate up to 30 days each year for
Dobson's adjusted rental use by a non-profit or other deserving
organization.
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1.
From: Suzanne Silverthorn
To: DIST LIST GROUP
Subject: Vail Town Council Highlights, part 2
NOTE===============12/22/99==2 59pm=========================_==___=== ==
ouncil Critical Strategies Discussion
Council continued reviewing objectives and work plans associated with
critical strategies identified during its earlier retreat
( nsportation, infrastructure, economic viability, housing, environment
and community collaboration). This time, the Council reviewed a draft of
its newly created environmental strategy. Councilmember Diana Donovan
suggested Vail strive to be the Western Slope's environmental leader in all
that it does, including recycling, water quality, tree protection, stream
setbacks, etc. The proposed 2000 work program includes working with the
state and U.S. Forest Service to address the Black Gore water quality issue
on Vail Pass; explore the use of alternative fuel vehicles; minimize the use
of paper through increased use of electronic media; continue to work with
the Forest Service on the pine beetle issue; participate in the Colorado
Association of Ski Towns -Colorado Department of Transportation magnesium
chloride impact study; address noxious weeds within Vail; continue
implementation of the Green Star program; work with Northwest Colorado
Council of Governments to forward concerns about Alternative D to the U.S.
Forest Service; continue to work with the U.S. Forest Service on the Blue
Ski Basin logging removal plan; prepare a map of proposed stream setbacks;
pursue creation of a streamwalk between Lionshead and Vail Village;
implement a solid waste management plan; increase promotion and awareness of
recycling opportunities; and participate in the purchase of windmill power.
For more information, contact Russell Forrest in the Community Development
Department at 479-2146.
--Information Update
Mayor Ludwig Kurz announced the Council's decision to offer free parking in
the Vail Village and Lionshead parking structures Dec. 23-25 as a holiday
gift to the community and its guests. For details, see news release issued
12-21.
Ouncements/reminders included: no Planning and Environmental Commission
.Oting next week; Council follow-up sheet has been resurrected; and the
0 Street Beat Party is Dec. 22.
Community Development Director Russell Forrest provided an update on a
recent meeting with the Eagle River Water and Sanitation District. Forrest
said the district has agreed to waive water and sewer tap fees for the
town's 8 employee housing units to be constructed in West Vail in exchange
for the right to purchase a 2-bedroom unit. The district also has pledged
to pay for the unit's construction. In addition, Forrest said the water
district has expressed interest in waving tap fees by 50 percent for the
construction of additional deed -restricted units within Vail.
Also yesterday, Forrest said the Vail Recreation District Board would he
invited to attend the Town Council's Jan. 4 work session as a prelude to an
open house on Jan. 5 and 6 to discuss community facilities elements for the
lower bench of Donovan Park.
Sybill Navas led a brief discussion regarding Council's options in canceling
its July 4 meeting. Options include rescheduling the meeting to July 5 or
the following week.
--Council Reports
Kevin Foley, who represents the Council on the Eagle County Regional
Transportation Authority, noted the board's difficulty in hiring bus
drivers. Foley also acknowledged receipt of a letter from a constituent
regarding snow removal and snow storage. In addition, Foley suggested
scheduling a meeting on Jan. 4 to bring the ice skating groups, the Vail
Recreation District Board and the Vail Town Council together to discuss
options for a second sheet of ice.
Wor Ludwig Kurz said he enjoyed representing the Council during Sunday's
ee lightings as well as the Wednesday Street Beat Party.
Slifer, who represents the Council on the board of the Vail Valley
T ism and Convention Bureau, said the board has met with representatives
from the Vail Community Chamber to begin discussions of a possible merger.
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Chuck Ogilby, who helps represent the Town Council during meetings of the
Northwest Colorado Council of Governments, provided an update on a recent
meeting in Denver in which the Alternative D White River National Forest
iernative
vice plan was discussed. He said he also attended a forum at the Aspen
titute and was surprised to learn the Aspen Ski Corporation supports
D.
er
C k Ogilby expressed concerns about the loss of a central reservation
system for Vail if the system is handed off to Vail Resorts. That prompted
a suggestion to invite representatives from the Vail Valley Tourism &
Convention Bureau and Vail Resorts to make a presentation to Council to help
clarify the issues.
Kevin Foley inquired if staff has pinpointed responsibility for construction
of a sidewalk from the Golden Peak Ski Base to the soccer field. Foley also
expressed his excitement regarding the opening of the Tap Room, 8150 and
expansions of Pazzo's and Gotthelf's. In addition, Foley noted problems
with the parking structures, including cleanliness issues, lighting and long
lines at check out.
Chuck Ogilby suggested consideration of a "bus bucks" incentive program in
which bus riders would be rewarded with "bucks" that could be cashed at
local establishments.
Ludwig Kurz presented an update on last week's scoping meeting sponsored by
the U.S. Forest Service regarding a proposal to�haul timber from the Blue
Sky Basin expansion through the Town of Vail. As a result of the meeting,
the public comment period has been extended to Jan. 18.
Evening Session Briefs
Council members present: Donovan, Foley, Kurz, Navas, Ogilby, Slifer
--Citizen Participation
There was no citizen participation.
onsent Agenda
Council voted 6-0 to approve second reading of an ordinance containing
amendments and updates to the town's building codes, including
a lion of the 1999 National Electrical Code. For details, contact Gary
Goodell, chief building official, at 479-2321.
--Vail Local Marketing District Checking Account
in a housekeeping measure following voter approval of the 1.4 percent local
marketing district tax (with collections to begin Jan. 1), the Council voted
6-0 to approve a resolution establishing a checking account for the Vail
Local Marketing District. Vail Finance Director Steve Thompson said the
account would be used to keep the marketing district funds separate from the
town's other funds.
--Buffehr Creek Park Lot 34 Rezoning
The Council voted 6-0 on first reading to approve an ordinance rezoning lot
34 of Buffehr Creek Park from Primary/Secondary to Outdoor Recreation. The
rezoning is the first step in a multi -step process that will ultimately
place the lot into the town's highest designated open space protection
status. The lot was acquired by the town in 1996 to expand the current
park. See work session briefs for an update on a design proposal to
embellish the park. For more information, contact Allison Ochs in the
Community Development Department at 479-2369.
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From: Suzanne Silverthorn
To: DIST LIST GROUP
Subject: Vail Town Council Highlights, part 3
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supplemental Appropriation
T Council voted 6-0 on second reading to add $319,126 to the 1999 budget.
includes an additional $140,000 needed for the town's self -insured
h th insurance claims, plus other unanticipated expenditures. For more
information, contact Finance Director Steve Thompson at 479-2116.
--Rezoning Rockledge Road and Ptarmigan Road Property
The Council voted 4-2 (Donovan, Foley against) to approve second reading of
an ordinance to rezone property on Rockledge and Ptarmigan roads that was
previously zoned Natural Area Preservation and owned by the U.S. Forest
Service. The land was transferred to the Town of Vail as part of a Land
Ownership Adjustment Agreement (LOAA) between the town and the U.S. Forest
Service. The town has subsequently resold portions of the property to
adjacent property owners to address encroachment issues. In voting against
second reading, Diana Donovan reiterated her objection to an earlier
provision that allows participating property owners to add GRFA (Gross
Residential Floor Area) to their lots, while Kevin Foley continued to
express disapproval of the land sale, saying the town sold the land too
cheaply. For more information, contact Dominic Mauriello in the Community
Development Department at 479-2148.
--Valley-Wide Census 2000
The Council voted 6-0 to approve a resolution supporting efforts of the
"Valley -Wide Complete Count Committee" in its local coordination of the 2000
census count. The count will begin on or before March 1. In voting to
approve the resolution, councilmembers noted the importance of an accurate
count in Vail and elsewhere in the mountains, since results are used to
determine the allocation of state and federal funding, political
representation, local planning as well as other considerations. For more
information, contact Pam Brandmeyer, assistant town manager, at 479-2113.
ail Local Marketing District Advisory Board
e Council appointed Bill O'Connell and Sally Hanlon to the Vail Local
Mapting District Advisory Board, increasing the group's size to 11. The
tmrwere among a pool of seven candidates who applied for openings earlier
this month.
--Vail Plaza Hotel
In preparation for formal consideration (first reading) of the Vail Plaza
Hotel redevelopment plan scheduled for Jan. 4 , the Council received an
overview of view corridors, previous development approvals for the Vail
Plaza Hotel property as well as the adjacent Gateway Plaza Building in an
effort to reconstruct the town's thought -process as it considered
development approvals for the parcels during the past 23 years. The
information, prepared and presented by George Ruther, the town's senior
planner for the project, prompted a suggestion by Councilmember Diana
Donovan to document view corridor discussions and decisions more thoroughly
for future decision -makers. In response, Ruther suggested such
documentation be made through legislation. Currently, there are five
legislated view corridors in Vail Village (none of which apply to the Vail
Plaza Hotel proposal) and another five headed for protection status in
Lionshead. Also yesterday, the Council heard from a traffic consultant
regarding projected impacts to Vail Road. Given future traffic volumes, the
consultant, Larry Lang of Felsburg, Holt and Ullevig, indicated no need for
a left-hand turn lane on Vail Road. His findings are based on an estimate
of one vehicle turning into the Vail Plaza Hotel site each hour. However,
several Councilmembers, including Rod Slifer and Chuck Ogilby, said they had
an intuitive feeling that a left-hand turn lane would be needed to prevent
back-ups at the Main Vail roundabout. Jay Peterson, representing the
applicant, noted his willingness to add a turn lane to the project, if
needed, but encouraged the Council to consider delaying implementation for a
ear or more to evaluate the need. In addition to concerns about Vail Road,
ncilmembers offered additional suggestions for the overall redevelopment
oposal: Chuck Ogilby noted his support for a landmark tower feature and
im-mUcated his willingness to grant additional square footage if the
INloper would add employee housing on the site to accommodate 38 workers
applicant has agreed to pursue this option if additional height is
granted); Diana Donovan expressed concerns about retention of mountain
Page: 1
Printed by Lorelei Donaldson 12/27/99 1:07pm
,views, interval ownership units, size of the spa; setbacks, paver
replacements and the limited amount of plaza space on the property; Rod
Slifer noted the need to improve a pedestrian connection to the Gateway
Plaza Building; Sybill Navas said she'd like to see housing for 38 employees
16generated within the town, although she's not sure about the trade-offs
uiged to place the units on site via additional height; Kevin Foley said
had mixed feelings about the project, noting his concern for isolation of
0ct Gateway Plaza Building; while Ludwig Kurz expressed support for
tional tweaking that will move the project forward. Kurz said he'd
ider adding height to a section of the building to accommodate employee
housing units on site. Earlier, during the public comment period, the
Council heard from Charles Lipcon, representing residents of the Gateway
Plaza Building. Lipcon expressed concerns about the height of the proposed
development as well as traffic congestion on Vail Road. Jim Lamont of the
East Village Homeowners Association urged the Council to require a turning
lane on Vail Road. He also suggested better "sculpting" of the building's
mass to be more in keeping with the Gateway Plaza Building. Also, Joe
Staufer, the building's former owner, and his brother Hermann Staufer urged
the Council to move forward with the project. As proposed, the
redevelopment calls for 99 hotel rooms, 48 fractional fee club units, 1
condominium, 393 parking spaces, a full service spa and health club
facility, and a 10,500 sq. ft. conference and meeting room facility. Also,
the proposal includes creation of deed -restricted housing units for 38
employees. For more information, contact George Ruther in the Community
Development Department at 479-2145.
--Town Manager's Report
In his report, Bob McLaurin said the town is prepared for Y2K following the
testing of back-up generators. He also introduced Beth Salter as the town's
new executive assistant.
--Other
Kevin Foley expressed condolences to the families of Gloria McRory and
Walter Moritz, both of whom passed away recently after contributing greatly
to the Vail Valley's success.
DOMING DISCUSSION TOPICS
ber 28--No Meeting
January 4 Work Session
Trees for Vail Update
Donovan Park Update
Discussion of Master Deed Restrictions
Vail Valley Tourism & Convention Bureau Update
Vail Plaza Hotel Discussion
Appeal of DRB Decision on Vail Plaza Hotel
January 4 Evening Meeting
White River National Forest Plan
Vail Plaza Hotel
Lot 34, Buffehr Creek Park, Rezoning
•
•
Page: 2
VAIL TOWN COUNCIL - MINUTES
TUESDAY, December 21, 1999
.7:00 P.M.
The regular meeting of the Vail Town Council was held in the Town Council Chambers on Tuesday,
December 21, 1999. The meeting was called to order at approximately 7:00 P.M.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT:Ludwig Kurz, Mayor
Sybill Navas, Mayor Pro -Tern
Rod Slifer
Chuck Ogilby
Kevin Foley
Diana Donovan
COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT: Greg Moffet
STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT: Bob McLaurin, Town Manager
Tom Moorhead, Town Attorney
Pam Brandmeyer, Assistant Town Manager
The first item on the agenda was Citizen Participation. There was no citizen participation.
The second item on the agenda was the consent agenda: Ordinance No. 36, Series of 1999, an
ordinance repealing and reenacting Title 10, Chapter 1; adopting by reference the 1998 Edition of the
0,nternational Mechanical Code, the 1997 Editions of the Uniform Building Code, the Uniform Fire
Code, the Uniform Code for the abatement of dangerous buildings, the Uniform Mechanical Code,
and the International Plumbing Code; the 4-wo 1999 Edition of the National Electric Code; the 1995
edition of the Model Energy Code, and the 1994 Edition of the Uniform Plumbing Code, and, with
regard to the above -described codes, adopting certain appendices, setting forth certain amendments
thereto, and setting forth details in regard thereto. Sybill Navas moved to approve on second reading,
Ordinance No. 36, Series of 1999, and Kevin Foley seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the
motion was passed unanimously, 6-0.
The third item on the agenda was Resolution No. 21, Series of 1999, a resolution authorizing a
checking account for the Vail Local Marketing District. Steve Thompson, Finance Director, stated that
this is a resolution to open a bank account for the Vail Local Marketing District. He said that this
would keep the monies for the Vail Local Marketing District and Town of Vail separate. Mayor Kurz
said the four designated signers on this account are as follows; Steve Thompson, Christine Stouder,
Robert McLaurin, and Pamela Brandmeyer. Kevin Foley moved to approve Resolution No. 21, Series
of 1999, and Council member Sybill Navas seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the motion
was passed unanimously, 6-0.
The fourth item on the agenda was the first reading of Ordinance No. 37, Series of 1999,
first reading of an ordinance amending the official zoning map for the Town of Vail in accordance with
Title 12, Zoning Regulations, Chapter 5, Zoning Map; Rezoning Lot 34, Buffehr Creek Subdivision
from primary secondary (ps) district to outdoor recreation district. Allison Ochs, Town Planner, said in
•1996, the Town of Vail purchased Lot 34, Buffehr Creek Subdivision from an adjacent property
owner. This lot had been identified in the Comprehensive Open Lands Plan as a high priority for
acquisition to be used in the expansion of Buffehr Creek Park. Though a Conditional Use Permit is
Vail Town Council Minutes December 21, 1999 1
required for a park in both the Primary/Secondary and Outdoor Recreation Zone Districts, the Town
is requesting this rezoning so that in the future Lot 34 can be considered for Designated Open Space
•status, as is the existing Buffehr Creek Park. Kevin Foley moved to approve on first reading
Ordinance No, 37, Series of 1999, and Rod Slifer seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the
motion was passed unanimously, 6-0, subject to the following findings: 1. That the proposed zoning
is suitable with the existing land use'on the site and adjacent uses. 2. That the rezoning does not
prevent a convenient workable relationship with land uses consistent with municipal objectives. 3.
That the rezoning provides for the growth of an orderly, viable community. 4. That the proposed
rezoning is consistent with the Land Use Plan.
The fifth item on the agenda was the second reading of Ordinance No. 34, Series of 1999, an
ordinance making supplemental appropriation and budget adjustments from the Town of Vail general
fund, capital projects fund, and health insurance fund of the 1999 budget and the financial plan for the
Town of Vail, Colorado; and authorizing the expenditures of said appropriations as set forth herein;
and setting forth details in regard thereto. Steve Thompson, Finance Director, said three items had
been added since the first reading of this ordinance:
1. Capital lease revenue and expenses for new leases entered into during 1999. Governmental
budgeting procedures require budgeting an equal revenue and expense for the principal portion of
new capital leases.
2. $20,000 additional expense for communication towers to provide emergency radio service in East
Vail.
3. An increase of $20,000 in both revenue and expense for revised health insurance estimates.
*Sybil Navas made a motion to approve on second reading, Ordinance No. 34, Series of 1999, and
Kevin Foley seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the motion was passed unanimously, 6-0.
The sixth item on the agenda was the second reading of Ordinance No. 35, Series 1999, an
ordinance amending the official zoning map for the Town of Vail in accordance with Title 12, Zoning
Regulations, Chapter 5, Zoning Map; applying zone district designations to property previously owned
by the United States Forest Service and transferred to the Town of Vail pursuant to the Land
Ownership Adjustment Agreement to prima rylseconda ry residential district for property located at
Rockledge Road/portions of United States Forest Service Lot 3, totaling 1.78 acres, based upon the
proposed final plat (not yet recorded) of a road/portions of United States Forest Service Lot 3, totaling
1.78 acres, based upon the proposed final plat (not yet recorded) of a replat of a portion of Block 7,
Vail Village first filing, and Lot 2 of Raether Minor Subdivision prepared by Dennis Shelhorn as job no.
0332-002; and applying zone district designations to property previously owned by the United States
Forest Service and transferred to the Town of Vail pursuant to the Land Ownership Adjustment
Agreement to primary 1 secondary residential district and two-family residential district for property
located at Ptarmigan Road /government lot 2 (1.66 acres) and lot 3 (4.252 acres) created by a survey
done in 1995 under the authority of the Bureau of Land Management Cadastral Survey.
Tom Moorhead, Town Attorney, said this is the final step for completion of the Land Ownership
Adjustment Agreement, which the Town entered into with the United States Forest Service 2 years
ago. The Town of Vail acquired property within the Forest Service in the area of Rockledge Road and
Ptarmigan Road that had encroachments of residential properties that had been previously Forest
Service property and subsequently it was transferred to the Town of Vail. The Town of Vail is now in
the process of transferring this property to individual adjacent property owners. Additionally this will
reserve a boundary on the Town of Vail's edges between Forest Service Property and the recreation.
Vail Town Council Minutes December 21, 1999
The Town Council passed ordinance #30 and 31, Series 1999, with one contingency: that the
property would be rezoned. There was one change since the first reading that referred to Section 8,
*Township 5 South, Range 80 West of the Sixth Principal Meridian: this area was rezoned as a
two-family Residential District which takes the small slivers of land, which are infringements, and
makes those zone districts the same as that of the remaining lots. In regard to the property on
Ptarmigan Road: the Town of Vail realizes 1.2 million dollars in addition to resolving the
encroachments and placing a conservation easement on the 4 acres. The adjoining property owners
as a group are funding this. For the sale of Rockledge, the Town of Vail will be realizing 1.4 million
dollars for the encroachments. Rod Slifer moved to approve the second reading of Ordinance No. 36,
Series of 1999, and Council member Chuck Ogilby seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the
motion was passed 4-2, with Council members Kevin Foley and Diana Donovan opposing. Kevin
Foley opposed because he did not feel he had enough information given to him to vote in favor. Also,
Kevin stated he believed the Town could have received more revenue for the sales. Diana Donovan
opposed because she does not agree that land purchased through the land ownership adjustment
plan should be rezoned to afford greater GRFA for the new owners.
The seventh item on the agenda was Resolution No, 22, Series of 1999, Valley -wide Census 2000
Complete Count Committee. Pam Brandmeyer, Assistant Town Manager, stated we are performing a
united front with all municipalities in Eagle County, as well as Eagle County. The Town of Vail Census
will be done in person. From Dowd Junction west it will be done by way of mail. This year they will be
starting this process no later than March 1, 2000, possibly as early as the second week in February
and will be paying a starting wage of $15.00 per hour. Kevin Foley made a motion to approve
Resolution No. 22, Series of 1999, and Council member Sybill Navas seconded the motion. A vote
O
as taken and the motion was passed unanimously, 6-0.
The eighth item on the agenda was the appointment of two additional members to the Vail Local
Marketing District Advisory Board. Sybill Navas moved to appoint Bill O'Connell and Sally Hanlon to
the Vail Local Marketing Advisory Board, and Kevin Foley seconded the motion. A vote was taken
and the motion was passed unanimously, 6-0.
The ninth item on the agenda was a discussion of the redevelopment proposal for the Vail Village
Inn. The purpose of the meeting is to analyze view impacts and to provide a follow-up to the
questions raised by Council members on Tuesday, December 7th. The follow-up report and
discussion included an explanation of the Traffic Impact Analysis prepared for the proposal by the
traffic -consulting firm of Felsburg, Holt & Ullevig. George Ruther, Senior Planner, handed out a
revised sun/shade analysis for the hotel and a memorandum from the staff. He then responded to
numerous questions and issues that arose from the December 7 and 14 work session meetings with
regard to the proposed Vail Plaza Hotel.
Jay Peterson stated that the two areas of concern are the need for a turning lane on Vail Road and
access to the loading area off of the frontage road. Larry Lang, Transportation Engineering Firm, said
when evaluating traffic operations along Vail Road they found that operationally the left turn lane
would operate at a level of service B. This means there will be delays ranging from 10 to 15 seconds
per vehicle. Taking their evaluation further; they found no indication that que-ing would be needed.
Mr. Silfer said a lot of traffic is generated at the four way. Building a hotel on this site would seem to
•generate enough traffic to require a third land. He than asked if there was enough room to
accommodate three lanes?
Vail Town Council Minutes December 21, 1999
Jay Peterson said there is not sufficient room to restripe and they would have to widen the road on
both sides. They would also lose a small amount of land scaping to accommodate a third lane.
Mr. Hall said he was comfortable with what is being proposed.
Mr. McLaurin suggested that the Council might want to require the developer to post a bond and
operate a year and see how the traffic works, then add the additional lane if needed.
Jim Lamont said that Greg Hall has some great ideas regarding the addition of a turning lane. Mr.
Lamont liked the idea of going down Vail Road and having a grand entrance to all the grand hotels.
He cautioned Council to look at the view remaining and about how we sculpt the mass and height to
give some feeling of openness.
Chuck Lipcon, a condominium owner at the Vail Gateway, said the residential owners are concerned
for many reasons. If this hotel is approved this will put the Gateway into permanent shade. He said
he would be concerned that the heating system in the Gateway would not be sufficient enough to
heat the building during the winter, The other concern is that the traffic at certain times would not get
backed up to 1-70. Additionally, he stated all access from the Gateway to the Village would be cut off
if this hotel was built.
Jay Peterson said the Gateway sees sunlight 10 months out of the year. This is the one building in
the Town of Vail that you have to drive to.
Herman Staufer stated that we have not had any new hotel rooms for a long time, in fact we have lost
. a lot of hotel rooms. Here is a company willing to rejuvenate the hotel business. Let's all get together
and support this project. We need a 5 star hotel.
Mr. Kurz said the major issue is Vail Road and the loading and delivery access.
Mr. Peterson said the last approval was that all the loading would be in the area down Vail
Road and would back into the Sonnenalp. The truck could remain there for 35 to 50 seconds at the
worst case scenario.
Mr. Ogilby said he liked this project and said it would be good for the economy. He recommended:
1. Reconfigure the front of the building on Vail Road to make room for a turning lane.
2. Maximize the landscaping
3. Keep the Cupula on top of elevator shaft. Keep it as an architectural feature.
4. Would like to see employee housing on site.
Ms. Donovan said the view corridor was of concern. Agreed with Chuck on Vail Road. This type of
zoning cannot be allowed any closer to the village. This hotel is monstrous. She would like to see
more employee housing but is not willing to allow more height. She would require all the properties on
this SDD to use this loading and delivery place. If you have to go out of town to provide employee
housing you will need to provide transportation back to town. The green spaces are too small. She
also expressed concern about the setbacks.
�Mr. Slifer said the 21 conditions that the planning department has listed are quite appropriate. He
feels a third turning land is needed, although he does like the idea of moving the sidewalk in.
Retaining the green space is a great idea.
Vail Town Council Minutes December 21, 1999 4
Ms. Navas expressed concerns about the traffic. She felt a third lane was needed and would like to
Wee the employee housing in the Town of Vail. Considering the trade off, Ms. Navas felt the extra
height is worth it. She asked for clarification on whether the conference rooms were undersized.
Navas wanted more understanding of the sun shade analysis and asked if the pool was in or out of
the sun?
Mr. Peterson said the pool was always in the sun. From the Town of Vail's view point, the bigger the
conference rooms the better as this will bring more people to the village but from the hotel's view
point, the conference area is already too large.
Mr. Peterson said he liked the idea of posting a bond and waiting a year to see if a third lane was
needed.
Mr. Kurz said we need to move in the direction of development. This is not going to be perfect. But in
terms of the changes made over the last year, this is something that the Town needs in relationship to
a hotel but he was still concerned that two lanes would not work. He said he is now satisfied that the
loading and delivery will work. He made mention that the Hyatt took out 18 hotel rooms to add more
spa space and said they are considering taking out even more rooms. He would consider adding
height to the building in the one section. He said the employee housing needs to be in the Town of
Vail. If not in the Town of Vail, the number of units required for the overall project should be
increased.
Ruther asked if Council was ready to move forward with the 1st reading of the ordinance on
,George
January 4, 2000. The Council indicated it was.
Tenth item on the agenda was the Town Manager's Report.
As there was no further business, a motion was made by Kevin Foley to adjourn the meeting and
Sybill Navas seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the motion passed unanimously, 6-0.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
'2AL.
Ludwig Kurz ayor
Yrel
ST:i Donal Pson�4�
Town Clerk
OMinutes taken by Beth Salter
Vail Town Council Minutes December 21, 1999