PROCEEDINGS OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 1994
SUBDIVISIONS
(#120, #123 & #124)
The Board of County Commissioners met at 9:00 a.m. in regular
session with John Barnett, Director of Planning. Chair Duvall
presided; Commissioners Disney and Hotchkiss were present. Also
present were: Richael Michels and Jay Meehl, Planners; Al Kadera,
Subdivision Administrator; John Pedas, Code Enforcement Officer;
Rex Burns, Engineering; Jerry Blehm, Environmental Health; and
Jeannine Haag, Assistant County Attorney. Recording Clerk, S.
Graves.
Mr. Barnett requested the Board to table the Lindacre Minor Residential
Development (#94-EX0488) until October 17, 1994, Royal Vista Subdivision
(#94-SU0504) until November 14, 1994, and the Seven Springs Preliminary
Plat (#94-SU0527) until December 5, 1994.
M O T I O N
Commissioner Disney moved that the Board table the Lindacre Minor
Residential Development (#94-EX0488) until October 17, 1994, the
Royal Vista Subdivision (#94-SU0504) until November 14, 1994,
and the Seven Springs Preliminary Plat (#94-SU0527) until December
5, 1994, as requested by Mr. Barnett.
Motion carried 3 - 0.
Mr. Barnett stated that the following are consent items and will
not be discussed in detail unless requested by the Commissioners
or members of the audience.
1. LETITIA LAKE SUBDIVISION AMENDED PLAT - LOTS 5 AND 6,
BLOCK 5, (#94-SA0574): N 1/2 OF 27-10-73, 1/2 MILE OFF OF COUNTY
ROAD 179 IN THE LETITIA LAKE SUBDIVISION, RED FEATHER
LAKES AREA; 1 ACRE; 1 LOT; O-OPEN ZONING (09-19-94)
This is a request for an Amended Plat of Lots 5 and 6, Block 5,
Letitia Lake Subdivision, to create a larger parcel by combining
lots 5 and 6. Staff Findings include: 1) The Letitia Lake Subdivision
was recorded January 7, 1928; 2) The proposed Amended Plat does
not create additional lots; 3) The parcel is zoned O-Open District
which requires a minimum 10-acre lot; by combining the lots, the
non-conformity of the lot size will be reduced; 4) No objection
from the Health Department or utility providers; 5) The Engineering
Department has commented on the Plat and a letter has been sent
to the applicant. Staff Recommendation is for approval of the
Amended Plat of Lots 5 and 6, Block 5, Letitia Lake Subdivision.
2. AIRPORT HEIGHTS AMENDED PLAT - LOTS 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, AND 9;
(#94-SA0571): 08-07-69; WEST OF OVERLAND TRAIL NORTH OF
LAPORTE AVENUE; 3.34 ACRES; 6 LOTS; FA-1 FARMING ZONING
(09-19-94)
This is a request to vacate existing right-of-way, dedicate new
right-of-way for a cul-de-sac and build a new road. Staff Findings
are: 1) Airport Heights Subdivision was approved in 1949; 2) A
street was stubbed to the south property line in Airport Heights,
but it does not appear that a street will be needed in this location.
This request is to vacate the south end of the street and create
a cul-de-sac. Construction of this street and cul-de-sac- is
the responsibility of the applicant and must be accomplished before
the Final Plat is recorded; 3) The Haumont Minor Residential Development
and Airport Heights gain access from Overland Trail via High Street.
High Street was built without a culvert at the intersection with
Overland Trail. This culvert should be installed by this applicant
along with any other drainage improvements needed to address the
concerns of the County Engineer.
Staff Recommendation is for approval of the Amended Plat of Lots
4-9, Airport Heights, with the following conditions: 1) Plans
for the construction of High Place and the new cul-de-sac shall
be subject to the review and approval of the County Engineer;
2) Plans for the installation of the culvert in High Street shall
be submitted by the applicant and shall be subject to the review
and approval of the County Engineer; 3) The construction of High
Place, including the cul-de-sac, and the installation of the culvert
in High Street shall be completed before the Amended Plat is recorded.
3. VENNER RANCH ESTATES 2ND, AMENDED PLAT OF LOTS 35, 37 & 39;
(#94-SA0572): 36-05-73, SOUTH OF ESTES PARK; 3.76 ACRES; 1 L0T;
E-ESTATE ZONING; (09-19-94)
This is a request to vacate a portion of West Prospect Mountain
Drive and add the vacated right-of-way to three lots resulting
in a single building site. Staff Findings include: 1) The Venner
Ranch Estates Subdivision was platted May 11, 1966; 2) The Amended
Plat would not create additional lots; 3) Lot size conformity
to current Zoning Regulations would be achieved by combining the
lots; 4) Vacation of a portion of West Prospect Mountain Drive
does not hinder access to adjacent lots or property in Section
35; 5) The Health Department and utility providers have no objection
to the proposal. Staff Recommendation is for approval of the
Amended Plat of Lots 35, 37 & 39, Venner Ranch Estates.
M O T I O N
Commissioner Hotchkiss moved that the Board adopt the Staff Findings
and Staff Recommendations and approve the Letitia Lake Subdivision
Amended Plat Lots 5 and 6, Block 5 (#94-SA0574); Airport Heights
Amended Plat, Lots 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 & 9 (#94-SA0571); and Venner
Ranch Estates Amended Plat (#94-SA0572); each, with the conditions
as outlined.
Motion carried 3 - 0.
4. BURK SPECIAL REVIEW (WISHES ARE HORSES) (#94-ZR0488):
06-05-69, ON THE EAST SIDE OF COUNTY ROAD 25 (GLADE ROAD)
1 1/2 MILES NORTH OF U.S. HIGHWAY 34; 3.15 ACRES; FA-1
FARMING ZONING (09-19-94)
This is a request for Special Review to allow a recreational and
therapeutic horseback riding center with up to 10 horses. Ms.
Michels gave a brief presentation regarding the project, noting
that the applicant is proposing to operate a non-profit riding
arena which caters to the disabled, including the physically handicapped
and high risk youth, and this is an existing operation which was
begun without benefit of County review or approval. Ms. Michels
reviewed the major concerns and issues, stating that the applicant
is currently working with the Health Department to mitigate the
concern of flies, dust and noise; the primary concern is the requirement
that no more than six horses be allowed on the property, as allowed
by the Zoning Resolution and another issue is access. Ms. Michels
noted that the applicant has not submitted a site plan for approval,
but has agreed to do so. Staff Findings include: 1) The proposed
riding arena provides a service for a special group of County
residents which might not have an opportunity for this type of
therapy if the arena did not exist; 2) With certain measures taken,
the impact from the riding arena will be minimized; 3) The County
Engineering and Health Departments and other reviewing agencies
have been given the opportunity to comment on this proposal and
stated no objections to it; 4) The approval of this Special Review,
with certain conditions, should not adversely affect the health,
safety, or welfare of existing residents.
Laura Burk, applicant, showed a video of a Channel 9 news report
featuring this particular project and a CBS program featuring
President Reagan supporting the benefits derived from this type
of activity. Ms. Burk submitted a map to the Board highlighting
the neighbors bordering her property in support for continuation
of this program; she noted that the previous owners of this property
had up to 16 horses and the neighbors are confused why there is
a problem now. Ms. Michels stated that Staff does not have a
history of this site, so cannot comment on a precedent use. Ms.
Burk stated that they need 10 horses because even though they
only have 6 riders at a time, there are many sizes and shapes
of riders and they need variety of horses; also, the horses are
old and if they are overworked, they will become lame. Ms. Burk
described the numerous improvements which have been made to the
property, such as planting grass, shrubs and trees, fencing, etc.
Ms. Burk stated that the adjacent properties to her property
have numerous horses, sheep, goats, dog boarding, dairy farm;,
etc.; therefore, this land use is compatible. She also noted that
the gate has been locked at the Moffit Drive access and will remain
so; thereby resolving the access problem. Dr. Richard Gaudby,
Veterinarian, informed the Board that if a horse has any lameness
whatsoever, you cannot use that horse for therapeutic riding.
David Lauer indicated his support for a probationary period
for this proposal. Al Chinear stated that this is a very worthwhile
program and provides a real service to the area; he stated that
the ducks and geese are being given away, which will resolve another
concern. Wayne Wise stated this is a great program. There was
no one in the audience to voice opposition to this land use or
project.
Chair Duvall noted that she has visited the property and was very
impressed. Commissioner Hotchkiss also visited the site and stated
he has no problem with the land use and feel it is compatible
with the area; Commissioner Disney concurred. After further discussion,
the conditions for approval were amended as follows:
The Staff/Planning Commission Recommendation is for approval of
the Burk Special Review to allow a riding arena in the O-Open
Zoning district, with the following conditions: 1) The applicant
must work out a dust mitigation and waste disposal plan with the
County Health Department; 2) Allow the applicant to have 10 horses
for the first year, after which Staff will review the issue with
all parties concerned, including the neighbors, to see if there
are any problems; 3) The applicants must work with the Loveland
Fire Prevention Bureau and submit a letter from them stating that
any concerns they may have, have been addressed; 4) No access
can be taken onto Moffit Drive; 5) A site plan depicting 10 -
12 parking places and County standard landscaping must be submitted
for Planning Department approval; 6) Parking and landscaping must
be inspected on site by the Planning Department; 7) The applicants
must develop a drainage plan to be approved by County Engineering;
8) Hours of operation are limited to 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday
through Saturday and 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sundays; 9) The
applicants must work with the County Zoning Officer to determine
a reasonable amount of poultry for this site and ducks and geese
must be under control at all times.
M O T I O N
Commissioner Disney moved that the Board adopt the Staff Findings
and Staff Recommendation, with the conditions as amended, and
approve the Burk Special Review - Wishes are Horses (#94-ZR0488).
Motion carried 3 - 0.
5. CASHMERE DOWNS SUBDIVISION (#94-SU0470): E 1/2, 33-04-69;
SOUTH SIDE OF COUNTY ROAD 4, 3/4 OF A MILE WEST OF U.S.
HIGHWAY 287; WEST OF THE HORSESHOE PARK SUBDIVISION,
EXTENDING FROM COUNTY ROAD 4 SOUTH TO THE LARIMER-
BOULDER COUNTY LINE; 279.3 ACRES; 23 LOTS; FA-1 FARMING
ZONING (09-19-94)
This is a request to divide 280 acres into 23 lots ranging in size from 2.3 acres to 6.1 acres for single family residential use and one lot of 197 acres to remain as a working ranch. Ms. Michels provided the area analysis and project description and reviewed the major concerns and issues, noting that the primary concern is the soil condition as there are severe limitations for septics at this site. Ms. Michels noted, however, that the applicant has tested each lot and their percolation data indicates that 73% of the lots meet the minimum standards required by the individual sewage disposal system regulations. Ms. Michels stated that other concerns relate to access and the six-foot walkways. Staff Findings are: 1) The soils present on this site have severe limitations for the construction of on-lot septic systems; however, the applicant has demonstrated that he can meet the minimum technical requirements of the Larimer County Water, Sewer and Fire Safety Standards and Procedures Manual with 73% of the lots percolating at not greater than 60 minutes per inch; 2) The use of multiple access points for the subdivision will lessen impacts of increased traffic on adjacent roads and subdivisions with off-site road improvements lessening the impact on off-site traffic flows; 3) The proposed subdivision furthers the interests of agriculture, open space, and wildlife habitats by preserving 180 acres of open space, wildlife habitat, and agricultural uses in perpetuity; 4) The proposed subdivision meets the criteria of the Larimer County Zoning Resolution and the Larimer County Comprehensive Land Use Plan; 5) The approval of this subdivision, with certain conditions, should not adversely affect the health, safety, or welfare of existing residents. Staff Recommendation is for approval of the Cashmere Downs Subdivision with numerous conditions, which have been agreed to by the applicant; the Planning Commission Recommendation was to deny the Cashmere Downs Subdivision.
Jim Martell, attorney representing the applicant, addressed the
issue of access noting that originally the access proposed was
through Horseshoe Park; however, at the last hearing there was
substantial opposition from the neighbors and so the Plat was
revised to show access going out to County Road 4. Mr. Martell
stated that Staff would like to have at least one access going
through the Horseshoe Park Subdivision and the applicant is agreeable
to whatever is decided. Mr. Schuetze, applicant, reviewed the
history of Cashmere Downs and addressed all the changes which
have been made to the proposal in an attempt to satisfy the Commissioners
and neighbors concerns from the last hearing on this item in February.
He described the concept for developing a part of the farm and
preserving the majority of the farm as agriculture land. Mr.
Schuetze stated that they are willing to grant a conservation
easement to the Larimer County Land Trust for agriculture purposes
in perpetuity. Mr. Schuetze noted that there is development
on the east, south and west of this property, and with reference
to the septic tanks, they have tested every lot and they can provide
adequate satisfactory septic and leach field systems on every
lot. Mr. Schuetze stated that they have two designated wildlife
areas and the 180 acres of open space will also contribute to
wildlife preservation. Mr. Schuetze stated that by taking all
these measures to address the concerns raised at the February
hearing, he is confident they now have a subdivision proposal
the Board can approve. Mr. Shupe, Landmark Engineering, addressed
several technical issues regarding the requirement for septic
system envelopes and stated they have developed a maintenance
program for the septic systems--the homeowner's association will
monitor the systems and pump them out at the appropriate times.
With regard to the traffic concern, Mr. Shupe stated that they
will not significantly impact the air quality by requiring people
to go out CR 4 rather than through Horseshoe Park. Mr. Blehm
offered his comments regarding the septic system and noted that
the subdivision meets the technical standards for on-site sewage
system, even though public sewer is the preferred first choice.
Mr. Burns addressed the traffic concerns.
Those speaking in opposition to this proposal were Bob McCardy, spokesman for the Horseshoe Park Homeowners Group, George Wallick, Jean Harden, and Leonard Leeper; they cited their concerns regarding traffic, the Horseshoe Park access, change in lifestyle if road is paved, detached walkways, enforcement of emergency access only through Horseshoe Park, wildlife, water pressure, impact on schools in Berthoud, the dangerous intersection from 287 into Horseshoe Park, and they questioned who will enforce the access through Horseshoe Park being used for emergency only. Barry Cunningham spoke in favor of the project noting that he is in favor of controlled growth, not zero growth, and this proposal provides much needed rural residential living.
In summary, the applicant informed the Board that they should
approve this proposal because it provides and preserves almost
200 acres of open space forever in the county and provides a 175
acre farm for agriculture in perpetuity. He noted that if this
proposal is denied, the land use plan allows that this entire
farm could be developed at 2.3 acre lots or larger and could have
80 homes on the site. He stated that Little Thompson Water District
has assured him they can provide adequate water to these homes
and because a loop will be created in the Horseshoe Park system,
they think it will actually improve the water pressure in Horseshoe
Park. Mr. Schuetze stated that the benefits of open space far
outway the concerns and he requested the Board to approve this
request.
Chair Duvall stated that her primary concern with this proposal
is the septic issue and she asked if the developer could put money
into escrow to cover any system failure in the future if one occurs;
the response was, who determines how much and for how long? Commissioner
Disney noted he has serious concerns about the traffic impact
on 287 and the cumulative impact on roads as each subdivision
coming before the Board is approved, and he also shares concerns
about the septic system. He commended the applicant for the
willingness to dedicate open space; however, he noted that unplanned
open space is as bad as unplanned development--it has to fit with
some kind of a plan. Therefore, he concurs with the recommendation
of the Planning Commission to deny this request. Commissioner
Hotchkiss questioned the need for rural residential subdivisions
split completely off from communities; he still thinks the proposal
is premature, the open space is a carrot, but he also plans to
support the recommendation of the Planning Commission. Chair
Duvall stated that she likes this project because she favors the
preservation of agriculture land in Larimer County, but the proposal
is gray--not black or white and she has concerns regarding the
septic system and the traffic.
M O T I O N
Commissioner Disney moved that the Board adopt the recommendation
of the Planning Commission and deny the Cashmere Downs Subdivision
(#94-SU0470).
Motion carried 3 - 0.
6. CASTILLON ZONING VIOLATION: LOT 14, BLOCK 4, NORTH LYNN
ACRES, 6525 LYNN DRIVE (09-19-94)
Mr. Pedas informed the Board that the alleged violation is for
operating an automobile detail shop in the FA-Farming Zoning District;
he reviewed the major issues and concerns. Mr. Pedas stated that
a permit for a garage was issued in April 1993, which was to be
used for storage and maintenance of a private collection of automobiles.
Mr. Pedas noted that in July 1994, his office was informed that
a tree service business had moved onto the property and in August
1994 they were informed of an auto detail shop on the property
with complaints regarding noise and odors being received from
adjacent neighbors. Mr. Pedas noted that the real issue is this
is a commercial use in a residential neighborhood; if it would
be approved as a use, it would require a zoning change to commercial
or a special exception. Staff Findings include: 1) The subject
property is zoned FA-Farming; 2) The FA-Farming Zone does not
permit auto detailing shops; 3) The subject property is in a residential
neighborhood; 4) Continued use of the property is inconsistent
with the zoning restrictions and will affect property values in
the residential neighborhood; 5) The permit for the garage building
is not authorized by either the Poudre Fire Authority or the Larimer
County Building Department for commercial use. The Staff recommendation
is to find that a violation exists, require compliance within
30 days, and authorize legal action if the deadline is not met.
Mr. Castillon, property owner, addressed the Board and explained
why he is detailing cars at this site--when the property where
he had his detailing shop for over six years was sold, he could
not find another relocation site and so he moved to this site
in order to keep his business going. He stated he had his chemicals
checked and nothing is toxic, he noted that he is not painting
cars. Several adjacent property owners spoke in opposition to
this operation: JoAnn Strader, Ruth Henry and Linda Perino and
a letter was submitted in opposition from a neighbor who could
not attend today's hearing. They requested the Board to enforce
the existing zoning regulations and deny this use; they are concerned
about the reduction of their property values if this operation
is allowed to continue.
M O T I O N
Commissioner Hotchkiss moved that the Board find that a violation
exists, require compliance within 90 days, and authorize legal
action if the deadline is not met.
Motion carried 3 - 0.
The meeting recessed at 12:35 p.m.
MEETING WITH JIM STOKES REGARDING
TECHNOLOGY IN 1995 AND BEYOND
(# 125)
The Board of County Commissioners reconvened at 1:30 p.m. in regular
session with Jim Stokes, Director of Information Management Division.
Chair Duvall presided; Commissioners Disney and Hotchkiss were
present. Also present were: Frank Lancaster; Interim County Administrator.
Neil Gluckman; Assistant County Administrator. Sue Cottingham;
Manager of Systems and Programming. Jim Stokes; Director of Information
Management. George Jones; Manager of Computer Operations. Gary
Janezich; Senior Analyst. G. Rex Smith; Director of Public Works.
Russell Ragsdale; Deputy Clerk. Bob Grewell; Director of Finance.
Bob Keister; Budget Manager. Stephen Carow; Senior Analyst for
Public Works. A. Jensen, Recording Clerk.
Mr. Stokes stated that the purpose of this meeting is to bring
the commissioners up to date with respect to computer technology
for the County and discuss where it is best to concentrate limited
funds. Mr. Stokes said that there are five or six major projects
that will require major funding expenditures and many of these
projects are interconnected.
Four areas of interest to the Commissioners were discussed by
Mr. Stokes, Mr. Ragsdale and Mr. Jones, such as: imaging, voice
mail, Geographic Information System (GIS), and networking. After
much discussion the main points were: 1) final decision on a vendor
for the imaging project will be made within two months, 2) the
GIS pilot project will be complete by the end of the year, 3)
Mr. Stokes will re-examine the funding request and the need for
expanding the voice mail system. Mr. Stokes noted that the study
for the networking project will be completed within a month and
how critical a network is for the future of technological advances
for the County.
The meeting continued with Ms. Cottingham discussing the Assessor's
and Treasurer's office computer needs and the current systems
shortcomings. Ms. Cottingham noted there are many demands placed
on the Assessor's office due to legislative requirements. Ms.
Cottingham also noted that the current mainframe will need to
be replaced by the end of the decade with consideration given
to having one computer system for the Assessor and Treasurer's
office.
Chair Duvall asked Mr. Stokes if the only available funding for
technological advances was $575,000, what would Mr. Stokes spend
it on? Mr. Stokes replied "Networking". Comissioner
Disney inquired about a new election system, if it would be a
part of this network system, and it's cost. Mr. Ragsdale responded
by saying a new election system would cost somewhere in the range
of $100,000 to $1.2 million and may or may not have a connection
with the network; he further stated that in mid-1996 Unisys will
no longer support our current election system.
Mr. Stokes informed the Board that a complete networking system
would cost approximately $2.5 million, but will advise the Board
of the potential phase in costs. Mr. Keister suggested waiting
to commit further funds for computer equipment until all the studies
currently under way are complete. Commissioner Disney suggested
reconvening the Data Processing Committee to facilitate long range
planning, needs assessments and act as a collection point for
studies currently under way. Conversation ensued regarding the
composition of the Data Processing Committee.
Meeting adjourned at 2:40 p.m.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 1994
PUBLIC WORKS STANDING MEETING
(#126)
The Board of County Commissioners met at 9:30 a.m. in regular
session with Rex Smith, Director of Public Works. Chair Duvall
presided; Commissioners Disney and Hotchkiss were present. Also
present were Elaine Spencer, Engineering, and Frank Lancaster,
Interim County Administrator. Recording Clerk, S. Graves.
1. Subdivision Maintenance Discussion: Mr. Smith informed the
Board that he and Mr. Heiden are preparing a comprehensive county
policy for maintenance of subdivision roads and noted that the
purpose of the discussion today was to receive input from the
Board regarding their thoughts and desires on this matter. Mr.
Smith noted that currently there are 364 miles of public roads
in the county that are not county maintained and they estimate
that about 250 miles of that total are subdivision roads which
have not been brought up to county standards; currently they are
maintaining 104 miles of subdivision roads. Much discussion
followed whether or not the county is going to accept subdivision
roads for maintenance in the future when brought up to county
standards, as they have in the past, if they going to continue
to plow school bus routes, if they going to continue with chip
sealing, sweeping, and snow plowing in subdivisions they are currently
maintaining, etc. Mr. Smith stated that the Board will need to
decide for the future whether funding will go either into construction
or into maintenance, as at the current level of funding they cannot
continue to do both; Mr. Smith stated that with the growth the
county is experiencing, there will be a tremendous demand on the
county road system. Commissioner Hotchkiss summarized the Board's
thoughts for Mr. Smith stating that the general guidelines to
follow when developing this comprehensive policy are fairness,
equity and consistency; the problems need to be identified and
an inventory taken with regard to which roads are currently maintained,
which ones the county has committed to maintain in the future,
etc. Mr. Smith will take the thoughts and information shared
by the Board and return in two weeks with a comprehensive policy
for further discussion.
2. Request from Cedar Park and Cedar Springs: Mr. Smith received
a request from the residents of Cedar Park for the Board to provide
additional monies to continue to make improvements to the access
road into Cedar Park and Cedar Springs and possibly construct
a secondary access into the area. Mr. Smith noted that the County
and the Forest Service each currently provide funding of $1,500
annually for road maintenance and construction and the request
is for an additional $5,000 from each entity. Mr. Smith informed
the Board that he advised the residents that the best option for
increased funding is for them to form a Local Improvement District
of General Improvement District; Ms. Martell, from the Engineering
Office, is sending them the necessary information to form a district.
3. TDP Process: Mr. Smith informed the Board that the City of
Fort Collins has received request for proposals back for the Transit
Development Plan (TDP) and has narrowed the list down to four
consultants; interviews will be conducted on September 22, 1994.
Mr. Smith expressed concern that the County's share on three
of the proposals would be between $50,000 and $80,000 and there
is only $18,000 grant approved and $5,000 from the County commited
to this. However, Mr. Daggett from the City of Fort Collins
advised Mr. Smith not to be concerned as there will be opportunities
to apply for additional Federal funds to cover this cost.
4. Discussion of Van Pools: Chair Duvall inquired about a van
pool for Hewlett Packard, Woodward Governor, Larimer County and
other major employers located both in Loveland and Fort Collins
to transport their employees back and forth. Mr. Smith stated
that the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) is working on
this. The Board said they will consider this idea when working
on the 95' budget.
The meeting recessed at 10:30 a.m.
MEETING TO DISCUSS POLLUTION PREVENTION GRANT
(#124 @ 2000)
The Board of County Commissioners reconvened at 1:30 p.m. in regular
session with Dr. Adrienne LeBailly, Director of the Health Department.
Chair Duvall presided; Commissioners Disney and Hotchkiss were
present. Also present was Frank Lancaster, Interim County Administrator.
Recording Clerk, S. Graves.
1. Pollution Prevention Grant: Dr. LeBailly stated that recently
the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment applied
to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment for
a Pollution Prevention Grant in the amount of $55,000; a grant
of $35,000 has been awarded, leaving a shortfall of $20,000.
Dr. LeBailly stated that the City of Fort Collins is interested
in helping fund the project at the $55,000 level and would be
wiling to contribute $10,000 if the County would do likewise.
Dr. LeBailly presented three options for the Board to consider:
1) Accept the $35,000 grant proposal and reduce the budget to
65% of the original proposal; 2) Request that a decision package
for $10,000 be funded by the Commissioners; or 3) Return the $35,000
grant and not conduct the Pollution Prevention Program. Discussion
of the advantages, disadvantages, goals, and objectives ensued.
CONSENSUS OF THE BOARD was to approve Option #1 and accept the
$35,000 and ask Dr. LeBailly to include a decision package in
her 95' budget request for the $10,000 to allow time for the Board
to give further consideration to the request.
2. Request to Donate Leave: Dr. LeBailly requested the Board
to allow the donation of leave for an employee in the Health Department
who ran out of leave on Monday of this week and passed away on
Thursday. CONSENSUS OF THE BOARD was to approve this request
for donation of leave time (16 hours) for a part-time program
worker in the Health Department.
The meeting adjourned at 1:50 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 1994
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
(#122)
The Board of County Commissioners met at 9:30 a.m. in regular
session with Frank Lancaster, Interim County Administrator.
Chair Duvall presided; Commissioners Disney and Hotchkiss were
present. Also present were: Ralph Jacobs, Director of Personnel;
Neil Gluckman, Assistant County Administrator; and Donna Hart,
Assistant to the County Administrator. Recording Clerk, S. Graves.
1. APPOINT INTERIM DIRECTOR FOR ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH:
M O T I O N
Commissioner Disney moved that the Board appoint Dr. Adrienne
LeBailly as Interim Director in Environmental Health, effective
October 14, 1994, at which time the position will be vacated by
Dr. Larry Johnston.
Motion carried 3 - 0.
2. WAIVER OF POLICY FOR INTERNAL RESTRUCTURING IN THE PLANNING
DEPARTMENT: Subsequent to a discussion during the Planning Worksession
on September 7, 1994 with regard to the hiring of a Chief Planner
for the Planning Department, Mr. Lancaster requested the Board
to authorize a waiver of the Larimer County Personnel Policy regarding
hiring procedures in order to allow Mr. Barnett to promote current
employees within his department. Mr. Lancaster noted that those
appointments will be Russ Legg as Chief Planner; Jerry White as
Senior Planner, and one position will be open to hire someone
from the outside. The purpose of this request is to allow Mr.
Barnett to move rapidly in reorganizing the Planning Department
in order to expedite the completion of the many projects which
the Board has given to the Planning Department
M O T I O N
Commissioner Hotchkiss moved that the Board waiver the Larimer
County Personnel Policy regarding the provision for posting of
positions, as requested by Mr. Lancaster.
Motion carried 3 - 0.
3. WORKSESSION:
-- With regard to the job description for posting the County
Administrator's position, Mr. Lancaster asked the Board if they
wished to discuss this further during Policy Worksession or have
Mr. Jacobs compile the written comments recently solicited from
the Board. After discussion, the Board directed Mr. Jacobs to
compile the comments and revise the job description before advertising
for the position.
-- Mr. Lancaster informed the Board that with regard to the numerous
invitations received for the Board, in the future Ms. Hart will
compile and discuss them with the Board during Worksession on
Wednesday mornings to determine who will be attending which functions.
However, if the invitation is to one Commissioner only, she will
discuss it individually with that Commissioner. Today, the only
invitation to discuss is a "visioning" planning session
to be hosted by the Human Development Department on Tuesday, October
4, 1994 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., with dinner included. After discussion,
Chair Duvall indicated she will attend this event.
-- Mr. Lancaster stated that the items on the agenda for tomorrow's Policy Worksession are: 1) The Data Processing Committee; 2) Wildfire; 3) Discussion of Policy
Worksessions - how the Board wants to advertise them and how often
should Cabinet Meetings be scheduled, etc.
4. COMMISSIONER'S REPORTS - ADMINISTRATIVE:
-- Commissioner Disney reported he has the final draft of the
letter to the Forest Service regarding the Meadowdale Ranch completed;
he will distribute copies to the Board and would appreciate their
comments.
5. DOCUMENT REVIEW: The following documents, of a routine nature, were considered by the Board:
M O T I O N
Commissioner Hotchkiss moved that the Board approve the Minutes
for the week of September 15, 1994 and the Agenda for the week
of September 26, 1994, as submitted.
Motion carried 3 - 0.
M O T I O N
Commissioner Hotchkiss moved that the Board approve the Application
Worksheet Form - 214 Recertification for the National Flood Insurance
Program for Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA); the
Amended Plat of Lot 6, Block 1, 2nd Filing and Lot 7, Block 2,
1st Filing, Cedar Springs Subdivision; and an Amended Plat of
Lots 232, 233 and 234 Horsetooth Lake Estates.
Motion carried 3 - 0.
LIQUOR LICENSES: County Approval was granted to La Chaumiere
- 6% - Lyons, CO. and Columbine Lodge - 3.2% - Bellvue, CO.
M O T I O N
Commissioner Hotchkiss moved that the Board approve the following
documents:
C94-54 CONTRACT BETWEEN THE BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS AND WESTERN MOBILE NORTHERN, INC.
(Paving of Bike Lanes - Project #202)
C94-55 CONTRACT BETWEEN THE BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS AND THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION (Federal Aid Bridge Replacement at
Cottonwood Creek)
R94-113rb RESOLUTION CONCERNING THE REPLACEMENT OF BRIDGE
NO. LR 18E-WO.2-31 OVER COTTONWOOD CREEK
(Federal Aid Project Bro CO60-003)
R94-114s FINDINGS AND RESOLUTION GRANTING THE WAIVER
REQUEST FOR STORAGE AT THE PINES
R94-115s FINDINGS AND RESOLUTION GRANTING THE JOHANNSEN
TROTTER MINOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT APPEAL
R94-116s FINDINGS AND RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PRELIMINARY
PLAT OF CHURCH SUBDIVISION
R94-117s FINDINGS AND RESOLUTION GRANTING THE VACATION OF
UTILITY EASEMENT IN BEARDSLEE EXEMPTION
R94-118s FINDINGS AND RESOLUTION GRANTING THE VACATION
OF UTILITY EASEMENT IN CARRIAGE HILLS 5TH
Motion carried 3 - 0.
At this time, County Attorney George Hass; Assistant County Attorney
Jeannine Haag, Sheriff Richard Shockley, Captain Sandy Schilling,
Detention Division; and Jerry White, Zoning Administrator, joined
the meeting.
1. Overcrowding in the Detention Center: Sheriff Shockley reported
to the Board that there are currently 66 State inmates at the
Detention Center, which represents 35% of the total inmates confined,
and a state of frustration exists as the State owes Larimer County
approximately $285,000 in arrears for housing these inmates in
May, June, July and August. Sheriff Shockley stated that part
of the problem for back payment is that a substantial amount of
money set aside for payment of housing of State inmates is being
used to transfer 400 inmates to Minnesota. Sheriff Shockley
noted there are currently 230 people in the Detention Center and
the facility could be run in an appropriate fashion without any
difficulty absent the State inmates; the problem is abhorent,
but he doesn't know what we can do about it, as the inmates cannot
be refused and it is not a turn-back situation. Mr. Hass stated
are three tiers of counties in this backlog problem, and we in
the bottom tier; it is a political funding budget problem and
what the judges can do to solve this problem has been exhausted.
The Sheriff stated that there is a backlog of over 800 inmates
in the State and the State Facility they are going to build will
only hold 1200 inmates and will not solve the problem. Much
discussion followed; the Sheriff was not requesting action from
the Board today, only to apprise them of the problem. Mr. Lancaster
suggested that the Board discuss the problem of delinquent payment
for housing State inmates with the State Legislature when they
meet with them after the election. In the meantime, Mr. Hass
will write a letter to the State requesting back payment. Commissioner
Disney suggested that this problem be discussed with CCI and the
Urban Districts to see if they can form a unified stance for solving
this problem in the future.
2. Request for Approval of Contract: Mr. White presented a Contract
for the sale of Lot 75, in Crystal Lakes Twelfth Filing, P.U.D.
and requested Board approval and the Chair's signature. The
Board approved the Contract, as presented, and authorized the
Chair to sign same.
C94-56 CONTRACT TO SELL LOT 75, CRYSTAL LAKES TWELFTH
FILING P.U.D. BETWEEN THE BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS AND SCOTT FITZGERALD AND DEBRA
J. FITZGERALD
3. Campaign Reform Act: Much discussion ensued regarding what
the Board of County Commissioners can and cannot do with regard
to discussing campaign issues in public. Mr. Hass stated the
Board may do whatever they want as long as they don't spend money,
and it should be done on their own time away from the Courthouse.
He noted that if they are at a meeting as a Commissioner on County
business, they should not turn that meeting into a forum for or
against an issue; if they they are invited to speak to a service
club, they may speak about the ballot issues and respond to unsolicited
questions. Mr. Hass stated also that the Board can pass a Resolution
opposing or supporting an issue, but they can't duplicate it or
publicize it in a manner that is different from what they normally
do; however, a private group can take that resolution and distribute
it--the bottom line is "The Board cannot spend taxpayer's
money on a tax issue". CONSENSUS OF THE BOARD was to request
Mr. Lancaster to draft a resolution stating the Board's position
in support of the Law Enforcement Authority and POST 2001.
4. Discussion of $50 Penalty on Fire Ban Resolution: In response to questions about how the $50 penalty on the Fire Ban Resolution was set, Mr. Hass noted that a violation of same is defined as a Class II petty offense in the criminal code and is a violation of Statute.
5. Discussion of 35-Acre Subdivisions: In response to questions
from the Board about control of 35-acre subdivisions, Mr. Hass
responded that one way to get control is through the road system.
Mr. Hass stated that Statute gives the County the authority to
regulate access to properties and also under the building code
you don't have to issue a building permit unless that site has
access to a county road system. Mr. Hass stated there are three
ways to control 35-acre subdivisions, thru the: 1) Road System;
2) Minimum lot size under the zoning regulations; 3) "Jackson
County approach", which restricts uses on 35-acre parcels
requiring everything to be approved by special review. The Board
requested Mr. Hass to explore the idea of the road system and
the withholding of building permits on 35-acre parcels. Mr.
Hass stated that the procedural way to do this is to amend the
zoning resolution by drafting language in the zoning resolution
that in certain zones these uses require special review. Control
through the road system is more complicated because it involves
a lot of standards and is more technical. Commissioner Hotchkiss
stated that the simple way to accomplish regulation is to change
the zoning resolution to require special review on these topics;
or Mr. Hass stated that, in certain zones in the County, the minimum
lot size could be changed to require 50 acre or 100 acre divisions.
He noted that the Board can do this locally under the zoning
resolution. The Board directed Mr. Hass to proceed with drafting
amendments to the zoning resolution to require special review.
Ms. Haag stated she can have this prepared in a month, so the
public hearing process can be started. Commissioner Disney
asked Ms. Haag to compare what they have done in Boulder and Jackson
Counties when she is working on these amendments.
6. POST 2001: Chair Duvall asked if the POST 2001 ballot language
could include exact language indicating the County's intention
to work with "willing sellers". Mr. Hass responded
that he intentionally did not include that language in the resolution
because the price of land could be affected; he used language
that would protect the general taxpayer as well as the individual
landowner.
M O T I O N
Commissioner Hotchkiss moved that the Board go into Executive
Session to discuss several personnel matters with legal counsel.
Motion carried 3 - 0.
The meeting adjourned at 11:30 a.m.; no action taken.
______________________________________
JANET S. DUVALL, CHAIR
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
( S E A L )
ATTEST:
____________________________________
Sherry E. Graves, Deputy County Clerk
_____________________________________
Aimee Jensen, Deputy County Clerk
September 21, 1994