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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 10/10/95
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
EAGLE, COLORADO
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
FORM 50 HOECKEL'S 387869
PUBLIC HEARING
OCTOBER 10, 1995
Present: James Johnson, Jr.
George "Bud" Gates
Johnnette Phillips
Sara J. Fisher
Chairman
Corrmissioner
corrmissioner
Clerk to the Board
This being a scheduled Public Hearing the following items were presented
to the Board of County Commissioners for their consideration:
Consent calendar
Chairman Johnson opened the meeting with the first item on the agenda,
the consent calendar as follows:
01) BILL PAYING
02) PAY ROLL FOR OCTOBER 12, 1995
03) COUNTY VETERANS SERVICE OFFICER'S REPORT FOR SEPTEMBER 1995
04) CHANGE ORDER NO. 1 TO 1995 GUARDRAIL CONTRACT
05) AGREElVIENT BETWEEN EAGLE COUNTY, STATE OF COLDRADO AND THE
WATERFORD CORPORATION TO REALIGN DEER PERIMETER FENCING AT THE EAGLE COUNTY
REGIONAL AIRPORT
06) AGREElVIENT BETWEEN EAGLE COUNTY, STATE OF COLDRADO AND CONCRETE
CORING COMPANY FOR CONCRETE WORK AT THE EAGLE COUNTY REGIONAL AIRPORT
07) SECOND AGREElVIENT WITH THE LANDPLAN DESIGN GROUP
08) FIRST AMENDMENT TO AGREElVIENT BETWEEN GMCO CORPORATION AND
COUNTY EXTENDING COMPLETION DATE OF AGREElVIENT TO NOVEMBER 30, 1995
09) LEASE AGREElVIENT BETWEEN EAGLE COUNTY, STATE OF COLDRADO AND
FLOYD CRAWFORD
Commissioner Gates moved to approve the Consent Calendar consisting of
nine items.
Corrmissioner Phillips seconded the motion. The vote was declared
unanimous.
Lls'l-l".I!a<. TO THE FAA SUSPENDING PROCESSING OF PFC #1 AMENDMENT
James Fritze, County Attorney, presented a letter to the FAA suspending
processins of PFC #1 Amendment. He stated it is his understanding the FAA
wanted thlS application withdrawn while they were looking for Grant Money.
They now have asked to withdraw this application and submit a new one at a
later date.
Commissioner Gates asked if this would be a timely process.
Mr. Fritze responded the FAA thought they would be able to find the
grant money but have not been able to do so to date. He stated they have
assured the County they are a top priority and there will be monies available
in the comins year.
Commissloner Phillips moved to approve the signing of the letter to
suspend this application.
Corrmissioner Gates seconded the motion. The vote was declared
unanimous.
AMENDMENT, LEASE AGREEMENT, VAIL/BEAVER CREEK JET CENTER
Jim Fritze presented the fifth amendment to fixed base operator
concession and lease agreement between Eagle County and Fixed Base Operators,
Inc., dba/Vail Beaver Creek Jet Center. He stated this amendment adds the
hanger space the FBO desired as well as straightens out any other property
line concerns. The document has been executed by Mr. Colby on behalf of the
FBO.
Commissioner Gates referred to a letter he received regarding Mr.
Loeffler's involvement and they were complimentary.
Mr. Fritze stated Staff recommended approval.
1
Corrmissioner Gates moved to approve the fifth amendment to the fixed
base operation concession and lease agreement.
Corrmissioner Phillips seconded the motion. The vote was declared
unanimous.
FINAL SE'ITLEMENT, ELAM CONSTRUcrION, INC. FOR 1995 PAVING CONTRAcr
Jim Fritze presented final settlement with Elam Construction, Inc., for
the 1995 paving contract. He stated notice has been published and there have
been no claims filed to date. The Attorney's Office recorrmends approval of
final settlement.
Corrmissioner Phillips moved to approve the final settlement with Elam
Construction.
Corrmissioner Gates seconded the motion. The vote was declared
unanimous.
BUDGET PROPOSAL
Allen Sartin, Chief Budget Officer, presented the Board with their
copies of the proposed budget. He asked the Board if they would like
individual printouts of detail as well.
Corrmissioner Phillips asked if there was much changed since they
previously received it.
Mr. Sartin responded there have been some changes. He outlined the
concerns with the balanced budget and identified those concerns on page 15.
He stated there are some proposed changes about which he still needs to meet
with the department heads. He asked that Friday, October 20, 1995 be the
final deadline for any changes to be submitted.
Mr. Sartin stated the concerns with this budget assume the Tabor ballot
question will succeed. If it fails they will need to budget additional
monies to do refunds. If the ballot question fails the capital plan will
need reviewing and reduced by approximately $700,000.00. The anticipated
spending will reduce the fund balance. Mr. Sartin referred to the summary
statements on page 4 of the fourth section, the working capital available
column and the funds available for projects. This is a very aggressive
spending plan for the County, both capital and operating projects. Mr.
Sartin suggested the Board be realistic as to whether projects can and will
be completed.
Mr. Sartin stated prior to the end of October the budget needs reviewed
so he will have direction from the Board prior to the election decision.
Adoption will take place in December.
Mr. Sartin stated he has departed from the format used in previous years
focusing on just the issues of concern in this proposal. The fund balance
spending, he reminded the Board, is something they have been working toward
doing.
commissioner Gates questioned the fund balance monies.
Mr. Sartin responded fund balance is in every fund and they can not
necessarily be used for other purposes than those within that fund. Mr.
Sartin stated there are obvious restrictions but he can inform the Board of
what will work or what will not based on the restrictions. A very large
portion is from general fund which can be transferred to capital projects.
corrmissioner Phillips asked how the mill levy declines.
Mr. Sartin responded because the value went up. He referred to the
statute which allows for a 5.5~ increase. This limit was applied which
lowered the levy. The levy must be adjusted, excluding certain funds, which
results in the mill levy to be charged.
Commissioner Phillips further questioned the decline in the mill levy as
it relates to property tax. The mill levy has declined but the assessed
value has increased which off sets the savings.
Mr. Sartin stated the progression has continually dropped the mill levy.
Corrmissioner Phillips moved to accept the budget proposal presented by
the Budget Officer.fcorrmissioner Gates seconded the motion. The vote was declared
unanimous.
2
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
EAGLE, COLORADO
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
FORM 50 HOECKEL'S 387869
PD-138-95-S1, ADAM'S RIB GOLF COURSE
Keith Montag, Director of Community Development, stated the intent of
tonight's meeting is to focus on some specific issues. Staff would like to
discuss the master plan, density and employee housing. Following staff's
presentation, the applicant will have an opportunity to resI?ond.
Mr. Montag stated in staff's report, they have identifled those areas
not in conformance. The first is the development section. Within this
section there are a number of objectives that focus on location. Staff feels
this proposal is not in conformance because the master plan directs new
development of this density in or adjacent to existing community centers.
Staff feels this is of suburban or urban density and thus should be located
next to an urban area. This would create a new community. Development
density outside of community centers should create a character in SYnc with
the rural character. Another component, clustering, and while it occurs, a
concern is with the precedent that would be set if approved. Once approval
is given, the remaining land ownership will request and rightfully so, the
same tyPe of proposal. The applicant indicates the need for a critical mass
which lS made up of this golf course proposal.
The next area in the master plan not in conformance is the housing
component. Typically, when this number of units is approved, you would
logically find corrmercial space to support it. The application indicates
that 10,000 square feet would be sufficient though they are proposing 20,000
square of corrmercial. Staff questions if that is sufflcient to meet the
needs of the residents. If a community center is to be approved, a long hard
look must be taken at the community service space. The residents will need
to travel either to Eagle or to the base area village to obtain services.
The third item of concern, there is no formal employee housing plan.
Staff questions the feasibility of service type workers affording golf course
units. How will one assure the affordability is maintained? Where are the
employees for the resort area coming from or being housed. Mr. Montag
referred to Blue Lake and Eagle Vail which were built under the guise of
affordable housing.
The open space component of the master plan talks about the preservation
of open space and that building must be adjacent to existing development.
The visual quality section is not in conformance. More importantly is the
development pattern of the open space, where new development belongs adjacent
to urban development.
The open space I?lan concurs with the master plan. The application talks
about the rural corrldor between two centers. Staff agrees the corridor does
exist if the base area of the ski development and the Town of Eagle are
considered. Staff does not agree with the applicants use of the term rural.
In the 1982 sketch plan, the intention was to keep the density outside of the
two urban centers.
In contrast, the applicant does have the right to create 35 acre lots.
Finally, to conclude, the applicant has stated they do not feel the
application has changed. They are using a 2.6 people per household in 1995
verses a 3.2 people per unit ln 1982. Therefore the bed base in 1982 allows
for an increase of units in 1995. The I?roposal for 1995 is 1,055 units.
Fred Kummer, president of Adam's Rlb and HBE Corporation, stated it has
been difficult for them to deal with this. He stated the most important
reason for the revision is the acquisition of Grey Rock, a desirable piece of
land, consisting of 210 acres. Additionally they have added Salt Creek.
They have gone from 640 acres to 1687 acres. Almost three times as much
land. They are talking about a bigger piece of real estate. Mr. Kummer
suggested PUDs are formed so that bodies like the Commission, can make
logical decisions about the development of the land. In his judgement, they
shouldn't be frightened by the 1,000 units. Another argument is that
somebody wants 1,000 units, why not give them 400. The battle of affordable
housing should provide a variety of housing. Mr. Kummer stated Eagle Vail is
a wonderful mix of people. Yes there are people there who use their homes as
vacation spots. What is the relationship of Eagle Vail to Adam's Rib golf
course. Eagle Vail is about six times as dense. An enormous difference.
Nor can it be compared to the Terrace. What they are doing is defying the
3
concept of affordable housing.
Mr. Kummer stated they have learned to put more effort into the golf
course. The golf course provides gainful employment to those who will work
on it. Mr. Kummer stated they are very much owner/ operators. One of the
reasons they have moved is not only th~ extension of th~ PUD but also tl:e
extension of the ranch. Mr. Kummer sald they have cOrrmltted all of thelr
land and their model shows that.
In answer to Commissioner Gates' question as to why it should be
approved, Mr. Kummer resI?onded by referring to the ballot question regarding
land acquisition. That lssue was defeated. Mr. Kummer referred to Mr.
Fedder's remark about buying the land and sending Mr. Kummer home. Mr.
Kumner quoted his mother, "talks cheap, it takes money to buy booze" . Mr .
Kummer reflected on the relationship they had with the pl~ing departme~t
when Suzie Vaughn was here. She had suggested Mr. Kummer gl ve some of hlS
land away and the people would benefit. Mr. Kummer showed the valley c;.rea on
the map saying it rivals Corrmissioner Gates place. The area is over flve
miles long, 515 acres, unrivaled for public access. In response to the
question what are you going to do with it all? They have committed 100 acres
to public access sports. This is land that could have been bought had t;:he
sales tax passed. Additionally, they have corrmitted to an 18 hole publlC
golf course. What about the fees on that. Having talked to Willy Powell,
who would like to increase his realm, Mr. Kummer would be willing to work
with the Town of Eagle and or with the Recreation District. He referred to
another square mile of wetland. He would like to say, if the Board tries to
deal with this in the same sort of way as they do with a 20 acre parcel or a
100 acre parcel, they can not do it justice. Mr. Kummer reminded the Board
they only have one person to deal with. He would really like to do this, and
he would like to do this well. Mr. Kummer stated contrary to some beliefs,
his bankroll doesn't need to grow.
Mr. Kummer stated it takes intelligent legislation and intelligent
components to face realities, being more honest with themselves than Mr.
Fedder's statements. Mr. Kummer doesn't believe $30,000,000 is going to
happen.
Terrill Knight, Knight Planning, stated the economic consultant will be
available in two weeks and asked the Board for their direction.
Mr. Fritze stated they have changed the advertisement once, perhaps it
would be more appropriate to add it at the end.
Mr. Knight stated he really doesn't believe the issues are that far off.
He referred to where they have addressed them. Section four of the package,
further refines the master planning issues. Those are listed as
non-ridge-line development, sustaining view corridors, riparian, etc., etc.
In addition, in section five, they have gone into detail in the carryins
capacity of the plan. They identlfied those issues and the result is, ln
terms of carrying capacity, they can carry a great deal above what has been
proposed. They took a respect for environmental issues as well. A second
matter in the creation of the plan was the resolution of potential impacts.
Transportation proI?oses a self sustaining project. Water services and
sewase are self sustainlng. They have addressed the wildlife issues and
sensltive plant studies. Those were the basis of the creation of the plan.
One of the main things was the creation of neighborhoods with a mix of
housing. They do not see this as a segregated development. They see it as a
mix in addition to creating the neighborhoods. On the site visit, the Board
had the opportunity to see the areas in question, development not on the
hills but hidden wlthin the area. They have added open space, parks, bike
ways, which relate to those neighborhoods. A range of housing t~es is
proposed. Lower cost units were recommended by the Planning COrrmlssion.
They have proposed 15 rental units and 40 caretaker units on the site.
Mr. Knight referred to the map which is 1 to 100th scale. They have
learned a great deal over the years witnessing the development of Vail and
Beaver Creek. They have tried to apply those issues here along with the
Eagle County Master Plan. Maintaining an open corridor along the Brush Creek
Road, and with the landscape plan, they will complete this all the way. This
provides for a wide area along the road, putting the houses back where they
are shielded by trees. They have created a no build line which protects the
neiShbors. They have moved the golf course, rather than having houses, to
relleve the corridor. They have clustered in order to keep a greater portion
of open space. The north end of the property is completely undeveloped.
4
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
EAGLE, COLORADO
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
FORM 50 HOECKEL'S 387869
They have clustered in appropriate areas where there is already flat land.
The internal circulation pattern creates two spaces onto Brush Creek Road.
At the entrance, where there is manicured golf course they have created an
identifiable character. They have a round about. Uniform patterns are
something they have stayed away from. There are open space parcels in
certain areas to leave small hllls. One can travel by trail throughout the
development. In the areas to the south, they are providing a link into the
center of development. Those issues of amenlties built adjacent to are part
of the plan. They looked at the land form first and also made certain that
each amenity is available to the residents. Parks were chosen to take the
most useful, workable area. The creation of large enough lots of open space
is to make it efficient. Many of those areas tie in with public lands. The
over 300 acres above Salt Creek work with the BLM land. Large amounts were
preserved.
The golf course was also designed to fit the lay of the land. Mr.
Knight pointed out, during the site visit, some of the natural areas for golf
course holes. The golf course will provide an additional link with the
riparian corridor. The visual impacts were extremely important in three
ways. 1) to protect views, 2) Brush Creek Road, providins wide set backs, 3)
view corridors from within. They would like to assure thlS to be as visually
acceptable both within and without.
Creation of large open space tracks and mitigating views have been done
to work within this project. Randy Cloid, a builder, will address the
building within the area and the project.
Chairman Johnson asked how many acres are within the northeastern
parcel, Salt Creek?
Mr. Cloid, a homebuilder, has won many awards including for a single
family home under $150,000. He also won a Q&A, quality and affordable. Mr.
Cloid discussed the markets for homes, employees and second home owners. The
amenities, affordability, some willing to pay more, some willing to pay less.
They have tried to devise a mix of homes throughout the project. He
discussed the paths and the parks, providing access to the village. He
showed the various homesites and the differences in the building lots. Not
all of the lots are the same size, some are clustered, some are more than an
acre. This provides people a choice of neighborhoods. It takes a certain
mix and a certain type of project.
Mr. Cloid showed some slides beginning with an Igloo. He showed a
clustering of homes which provides some affordability. There are walkways to
the central park so people can enjoy their neighborhoods. The lots, which
are bigger than the Terrace, provide for open space. The next slide showed a
sense of community without the clustered feeling. Many of the homes and
density will not be seen because of the hills and trees. The townhome slide
showed paths that connect them to the open space. Because of the trees, you
don't see a lot of homes. They have used the landscape to help shelter the
density, giving a sense of community.
Mr. Cloid referred to an article on Walden, Colorado and the denial of
the ski area there a few years ago. They are trying to create a
neighborhood, a resort that will work for the people here.
Mr. Kummer thanked Randy and closed by saying these houses aren't going
to appear in the next twenty minutes, or in the next twenty years. Look at
Arrowhead, it is 23 ~ build out. Mr. Kumner is an owner there, but they can't
keep the restaurant open full time. There is more, he says, than retail. He
referred to a new development he owns in Datona. He referred to Beaver
Creek, 57~ build out, and others. He hopes, as this Board moves forward in
discussion, this unique opportunity exists by taking this significant piece
of land and working with planning. They could do a great service to create
affordability, an opportunity for people to live here, without being driven
out. They shouldn't compare Adam's Rib with the upper valley. It will take
a long time to build out.
Chairman Johnson asked if everyone who wished to speak had signed up.
He explained the public comment process.
Bob McKenzie, a resident of Bruce Creek,
he skied in vail in 1962 and now snowboards.
stewards of the land, taking trash out of the
up Brush Creek valley, stated
He and his wife have been good
watershed. They raise hay and
5
have worked hard to return the land to the way it was before. They are not
unusual in the Brush Creek valley in that regard. It irritates him to hear
Adam's Rib characterize 35 acres parcels to be substandard to their
development. If developed as such, there would 600 dwelling units. He would
like to talk tonight about this community. They moved here because it is a
community. They have made friendships that will last a lifetime. Eagle has
a traditlon of community in this area. The Eagle community has changed from
agricultural to something more vital. Its the government hub, a services hub
and a transportation hub. It is here because it provides much of the human
energy that keeps the rest of the valley going. What Adam's Rib is asking to
do is change the community to a resort. They are going take fifteen miles of
roads, putting in 5000 units, 15000 hotel rooms, and thousands of people.
The residents will become a minority, to be overrun by the resort visitors.
He questioned how many people in the audience could afford to buy their homes
today. He feels they will succumb to the pressures of the resort
communities. He said we should be looking to every flight into the airport
as to what types of talents they can bring in. His second point, was to ask
if they were sure we need a resort. Mr. McKenzie asked the Forest Service
what this resort could offer. Is it a better ski area, will it service a
community that does not have skiing available. They responded it is an
adequate use of the land. Mr. McKenzie stated he doesn't think they should
depend on the Federal Government. 231 ski areas have been lost since 1982.
He asked the Corrmissioners if they feel it is justified to keep it to that
area. Vail and Beaver Creek are not over capacity. There is an unused
14,000 skies that can be added by the Forest Service and local governments
allowing them to do that. His flnal point, is that a heartfelt belief has
been stated there must be an economic benefit for the community. He listed
off the development yet to happen at the various developments already in
existence. The master plan, which came out today, says at our current rate
of growth, there is eighteen years ahead. Why do we want to invite more
peoI?le into this community to compete with us. The golf course is clearly a
cholce of resort or community. To protect both our human and natural
resources, we ask the Board reject the proposal.
Jerry Butters, an Eagle resident, referred to the letter submitted to
the corrmissioners. He read the letter for the record.
Jim Butters, area resident, stated he is 100~ for Adam's Rib
development. He has been coming to Eagle for 20 years. He has three sons
and ten grandchildren living in Eagle. He would like to see them come back
to the area after college. He would like to make some conments about the
opposition to Adam's Rib. The housing units he has owned and rented he would
have sold for the last few years for what he paid for them. Low income
families can not afford low income housing if they don't have jobs. He
discussed the fact Colorado has 80~ open space. In the open space, a person
only has to raise their eye to not see any development at all, except for the
house in Wolcott and Battlement Mesa. Golf courses are well groomed open
space. One of the Planning Corrmission members corrmented he doesn't want us
to be a bedroom to the world. These people seem to be more interested in
animals than people. Let the people come to the 2 O~ and the animals go to
the 80~. The opposition are people who have either worked for the federal
government, state government or local government. He believes Adam's Rib
will create opportunity for the people who will come here.
Dick Turgeon, a Fulford resident and Gypsum homeowner, served on the
original Planning corrmission with Bud Gates. They recorrmended approval of
Eagle Vail, Beaver Creek, Adam's Rib, Missouri Heights, creating the first
zoning, and they created a master plan as a guide to what they hoped to
accomplish. When a developer came in, they picked it apart, and changes were
made. There is a new master plan going on for this valley. He asked how
that could be done in less than a year when it has been done over the course
of twenty some years. He knows that Beaver Creek, Arrowhead, Adam's Rib were
approved in 1974. Adam's Rib has not yet happened but the other two have.
He doesn't believe any more planning is necessary. He urged the Board to
approve this subdivision, this project.
Suzanne Shepard, property owner in the Eagle area, says they hear a lot
of I?romises and glowing reports about what this will be or what it will not
be lf this is not approved. Plans can be changed. She does not like the
densi ty as they are shown on the maps. The maps are shades of green and the
pictures show trees that are bigger than life. She believes they are not
6
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
EAGLE, COLORADO
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
FORM 50 HOECKEt.:S 387869
showing the whole development at once because it would be very frightening.
When you take out the Salt Creek property, you end up with 1000 units on 1000
acres. While some is open, much is very dense. People are looking for more
space around them. The growth that will be seen in the Town of Eagle is
horrendous. What you don't see in this biS document is the number of cars it
takes to build a house. She asked Corrmissloner Phillips to look down on
Brush Creek from Kaibab. She is very concerned about the aquifer. The water
table is very high. With two golf courses proposed, there is no recharge
area for all of the fertilizers to be used. Greenskeepers have twice the
development of cancer. She asks the County to look into the water issue very
seriously.
Vern Brock, lives on the north side of I-70 on the old Rural Ranch. He
was asked to address the 35 acre parcels and if Adam's Rib was subdivided
into those parcels, the developer will likely retain the water rights when he
subdivides. He stated there would be dust bowls and water wars. Regarding
building, there is no control on 35 acres. The only thing they govern are
the safety qualities. There are people digging thelr own trash, building of
hillsides, etc. On his taxes, when he first purchased his property, his
taxes were $106.00 per year. They have increased to $1,600.00. How many
people will be able to afford to buy property and build up Brush Creek.
Finally, on the water issue, he thinks the golf course and the plan of Adam's
Rib is fantastic. He has taken a course through CSU and knows there are less
herbicides and pesticides used on a ranch than ever used on a golf course.
Further, there is corrment in the Enterprise by Mr. Fitter, referring to smart
growth or dumb growth. Is he talking about the growth west of Eagle, the
growth on the north side of the highway going west. He believes the Board
should approve Adam's Rib.
Mark Becker, a Gypsum resident, has been here since 1980. His first job
was working with Adam's Rib Ranch. When he first heard about this
development, he supported it. He believes its easy to criticize someone's
ideas after they've been brought out. What he has seen of the plan and of the
proposal, he is in total support of, particularly the golf course and the ski
area as well. These things just don't come around everyday. He has sold out
and is moving to Garfield but would consider coming back.
Michelle Loy, Girsh and Danielson, representing the Concerned Citizens
of Eagle County, stated employee Housing was her issue. The affordable
units, as stated by the applicant, are 40 caretaker units and 15 rental
units. The development will bring about 136 college students. Minimum wages
job holders must be afforded affordable housing. It must be addressed. She
read from a letter from the Arch Bishop of Denver, Stafford. One of the
first signs of unjust development is the housing issue.
Leonard Sinclair, a Gypsum resident, and in the area since 1945, stated
his family lived in Minturn and graduated from Minturn High. He didn't want
to be a railroader, miner or in timber, he wanted to be a sailor. He came
back and went to college. Although there was a job available in Gypsum, they
offered him $4,750 per year, he went into the Navy and became a pilot. He
returned to Eagle County. We aren't going to stop people from coming here.
Affordable housing is in Leadville. There is other affordable housing in
Bond, McCoy, up Copper Spur, and its being rented. Not long ago, five miles
west of Gypsum, there was a hut with a for rent sign on it. He has some
affordable rentals in and outside of Gypsum. He spoke of those living in
tents and in camp grounds. This is not what Adam's Rib has in mind. He is a
little confused as about a month ago he came to this series of meetinss. Mr.
Montag introduced himself, but did not voice any opposition at that tlme.
The numbers, complaints, etc., are the same things he would have been hearing
ten years ago. Twenty years from now, build out may be in site, they must
look ahead. He spoke of some quality building and that which is going on in
Telluride. Remember there is a silent majority.
Susie Kincade, a resident on Eby Creek Road, asked to address tonight
just the issues on the agenda. She thanked the county staff and applauded
them for their efforts. She urged the Board to listen to the planning
corrmission tapes. She stated the Adam's Rib plan does not comply with the
master plan for numerous reasons. Most importantly, it is not adjacent to
the already existing development. It represents blatant spot zoning. On
7
this point alone, it should be denied. The rural corridor development is
nothing more than urban sprawl. The master plan and the Easle Area plan are
going to be completed shortly. These are plans the corrmiss1oners supported.
It would be a slap in the face if the corrmissioners moved forward before the
plans are put into place. The public input obtained during this process,
strongly indicated preservation of the rural life that drew them here in the
first place. There are more jobs than can be filled. What about the
priorities the people have identified. If Adam's Rib brings in 15,000 people
the priorities will be lost forever. Employee Housing, and the industry
standard is 3 employees per room. The proposed hotel on the golf course
would need 300 employees, the Inn about 50, the shops another 60 employees,
and 10 golf course employees. That's 420 employees and 420 units needed.
Certainly there would be more stores, restaurants, and even a K-mart. There
would be as many employees needed to serve the employees as to serve the
development alone. The developer is proposing 40 caretaker units and 15
rental units. They also propose units in town at a cost of $90,000 per unit.
How affordable is that? The housing proposed is not adequate, located near
enough to the resort, and not affordable. The economic viability of the golf
course alone should not be approved without the entire plan for the entire
resort is before the Board. It must be evaluated as a total project. She
wouldn't make a decision with only a third of the information. If they grow
out from the center, then annex, the town benefits. Building the resort
outside the town limits puts the services on the county while only generating
1~ sales tax. She urged the Board to deny the plan.
Tom Brooks, a Colorado River Road resident and business owner in Gypsum,
stated he has attended two meetings and believes everyone has made some good
points. When aPI?roved by the corrmissioners in the early 1980' s he was
convinced and st1ll is that it will be a positive development for the county.
As for affordable housing, he has experienced it. He has lived through the
winter in a tent. He has left his family in Michigan to work here and sent
money back. He has worked ranches and worked in Climax. Adam's Rib is
addressing affordable housing and will have affordable housing. vail
Associates never has. 35 acre parcels are a great idea, plenty of room, but
asked if anyone has looked at the mill levy. He believes people like himself
are being driven out. The opportunity is not here. As an American, a
working man, he gets outraged. He asked the Board to please approve this
finding so they can get to work.
Annie Eden, area resident, stated she was shocked and saddened at the
last community area plan when they had been deemed biased. Even though the
community is divided, friendships, personal respects, have always been
maintained. She pleaded with everyone to stay on track and show respect for
the community leaders and the volunteers or appointed people who are
attempting to do what is best for Eagle County. What they see as important
is for growth to stay near the towns and not skip up Brush Creek Valley. She
thinks after the new county and Eagle Master Plans are incorporated, the
Board should then look at the entire development. In regards to housing,
labor shortages exist. If Eagle is a spillover, where are all these new
people,going to live. How can it,be an advantage ,to create more jobs when
there 1S no place for people to 11 ve now. Regard1ng Mr. Kummer's figures on
buildout that has not yet happened and recorrmended build out of those
communities before embarking on another development.
Charlie Wick, representing Adam's Rib, introduced Bruce Erickson, with
Cedar Brown. Mr. Erickson is the designer and developer of the ski mountain.
He has designed most of the ski areas in Western Colorado as well as the
areas in Utah.
C,?rrmissioner Gates stated he is torn with both sides of the story.
There 1S alot of , work to be done yet. He responded to Suzie's question, and
no, he has not Ilstened to all of the planning corrmission tapes. Looking at
the maps and tl:e mode~s, he see lots,of area but seeing the houses on the
model makes qu1te an 1mpact. He bel1eves they must be very serious in
looking at all of the information.
, Chairman Johnson reiterated the applicant's request to look at this
str1ctly as the golf course proposal. In regards to the master plan in
rega~:d ,to development, he asked the applicant to show what the chang~d
cond1t1ons are or the demonstrated need.
Terrill Knight stated it is a broad question and a fair question. The
master plan, as presented, is to give general guidance and direction. It is
8
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
EAGLE, COLORADO
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
FORM 50 HOECKEt.:S 387869
impossible to answer every question. To look at development and not the
other nine issues is not feasible. The resort was approved previously, it is
nearing the end of a federal process. This is very closely related to the
Adam's Rib ski area. In terms of justification, they must present further
technical detail. Development is encouraged that does take care of its own
needs and should be related to the other provisions. The economics that
relate to the resort.
Chairman Johnson asked if they go to objective #5, he has a concern with
just 20,000 square feet of service space meeting the needs of the
development.
Mr. Knight responded they want to have a self sustaining community but
they do not want to make it its own community center. Even at full bU1ld out
this will not support a clothing store or a shoe store. The town of Eagle,
eight miles away, Adam's Rib resort with convention services will become the
center for commercial business. This is a residential adjunct to the resort
and to Eagle.
Chairman Johnson questioned we are only looking at the golf course, but
yet we are relying on the solf course sketch plan to stand alone.
Mr. Knight stated the Sk1 area is waiting their certification. The Ranch
PUD is being reviewed. The 1982 sketch plan shows the resort plan. Under
the mandate to move forward, and in addition to meets the needs they have,
this is the best they can do.
Chairman Johnson questioned the housing plan for employees that would be
generated by this PUD. He couldn't find an actual housing plan to house the
employees.
Mr. Knight responded within the booklet it indicates they based their
calculations according to County formula. There is a portion of employee
housing they are trying to meet on this site. A significant portion w1ll be
in the Bluff's project in Eagle. This part of the development will not
generate the employee base, but will the ski area.
Chairman Johnson stated it should be addressed in the PUD.
Mr. Knight responded the overall affordability of cluster housing,
townhouses, etc., will meet those needs. Getting employees into ownership
situation will be a key element. Most of the rental housing will be in the
resort village because that is where the demand will be.
Chairman Johnson asked if the for sale housing will be deed restricted
to make it available for employee housing forever.
Mr. Knight responded no. He believes that attaining appreciation, makes
them a part of the system. They believe they are meeting that need in other
venues. Between the 55 or so rental units on this property, that will meet
the substantial portion of the employment concern. The principal areas of
lower income housing is in other areas.
Chairman Johnson stated low income housing is not what is being looked
at but affordable housing.
Mr. Knight stated the affordability comes in the clustered, higher
density developments. They are not, at this point, imposing any special
restrictions. Homestead, in Edwards has provided, smaller, higher density
housing.
Chairman Johnson stated homestead is different. There is not a magnet,
a golf course, a ski area, that would make it desirable for second homes.
55~ is targeted toward second homes.
Mr. Knight stated using Eagle Vail, it has a healthy mix of primary and
second homes. Its about half and half and he does not believe it to be a
negative to the neighborhood. In his view, a lot of permanent residents will
want to live on the golf course. The intent is to make it a permanent mix.
Homestead is there because Vail and Beaver Creek did not provide the
clustered housing.
Chairman Johnson questioned the calculations for which housing should be
provided. He questioned there not being a number for golf course employees.
Mr. Knight responded they are not duplicating employment, but that
winter employees will also be summer employees.
Chairman Johnson questioned the primary resident housing along the golf
course. He asked what the profile is for that resident.
Charlie Wick stated owner/occupied residences, medium income, in the low
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$50,000.
Chairman Johnson asked about Mr. Freilick's comment that 50~ of the
employees will be able to live in the golf course PUD.
Mr. wick responded the average household income would allow for owner
occupied units with an income averaging $50,000. It will not be strictly for
golf course employees.
Chairman Johnson guestioned the formula given at the first meeting with
the average occupancy 1S 2.6 peoI?le, he asked if it includes Vail.
Mr. wick stated they are uS1ng those figures in the master plan and
indicated Vail Associates uses that figure as well. There are several data
sources for that.
Chairman Johnson stated if they look at the 380 residential units which
are for the local resident, they don't come up with the 1,400. On page 7.4,
the forth line down.
Mr. Wick stated he would have to review that.
Chairman Johnson asked what the price range would be of the golf course
units.
Randy Cloid stated they haven't really looked at a price but they are
looking for them to hit the medium income.
Chairman Johnson asked Mr. Fritze about page 7.4 under 7.5, the second
line down. It states that 130 homes will be transferred.
Mr. Fritze responded its all the same PUD. In tab B the framework is
set forth in this hearing. The revised plans must address the sketch plan.
The vassar site need not be included in the revision, however, impacts must
be analyzed as they relate to the vassar site and the areas between. He
stated we are hear1ng an amendment to a sketch plan. If it is approved, the
proponents will have to comply will all of the requirements of the original
plan. This will neither be a go forth and build or this project is dead.
There is a process and requirements which must be met along the way if it is
approved.
Mr. Knight stated a certain amount of land has been added and that is
why they have submitted it.
Charlie Wick referred to documents provided to the Board where some of
Mr. Johnson's questions had been answered.
corrmissioner Phillips stated she does have some questions. Is this the
appropriate location? How much density do we want to look at? Instead of
setting such a strict pro or con, is there a number we should look at? Rural
character is very serious in her mind. She related there needs to be more
information presented.
Jim Fritze pointed out this is a quasi judicial proceeding and the Board
a~e 1;:0 ac1;: as judges. It is only appropriate that information is shared
w1th1n th1S room.
Terrill Knight asked to make a brief closing statement. He also is a
believer in the democratic process and they will attempt to answer any
questions that come their way.
Keith Montag stated the next hearins is scheduled for October 24, 1995
from 2:00 to 5:00. Some of the issues w1ll be wildlife and transportation.
There being no further business to be brought before the Board the
meeting was adjourned until October 16, 1995.
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Attest: -
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