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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 08/24/10 PUBLIC HEARING
August 24, 2010
Present: Sara Fisher Chairman
Peter Runyon Commissioner
Jon Stavney Commissioner
Keith Montag County Manager
Bryan Treu County Attorney
Teak Simonton Clerk to the Board
Kathy Scriver Deputy 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 Agenda
Chairman Fisher stated the first item before the Board was the Consent Agenda as follows:
A. Approval of bill paying for the week of August 23, 2010 (subject to review by the Finance Director)
Finance Department Representative
B. Contract Amendment to State of Colorado Department of Local Affairs American Recovery and
Reinvestment Act Community Services Block Grant Agreement with Eagle County
Kathleen Lyons, Health & Human Services
C. Addendum to Warranty, Support, and License Agreement for Hart Intercivic Voting Equipment and
Software Provider
Teak Simonton, Clerk & Recorder
D. Resolution 2010 -095 Appointment to the Minturn Cemetery District Board of Directors
County Attorney's Office Representative
E. Resolution 2010 -096 Final Release of Collateral and Termination of the Warranty Period for Fritz and
Cecilia Schmidt, Road Cut Permit No. 3668
County Attorney's Office Representative
F. Resolution 2010 -097 Final Release for Collateral and Termination of the Warranty Period for Mathew A.
Dietz, Road Cut Permit No. 3670
County Attorney's Office Representative
G. Release of Lien for 1050 West Beaver Creek Boulevard, Sunridge Unit #D204, Avon, Colorado for the
Sunridge at Avon II Condominium Association
Housing & Development Representative
H. Agreement between Eagle County and Community Health Services for Prenatal Care Services in El Jebel
Anne Robinson, Health & Human Services
I. Resolution 2010 -098 Support of the Grant Application for a Mini Grant from the State Board of the Great
Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund for the Dotsero Eagle River Open Space
Rick Ullom, Project Management
J. Resolution 2010 -099 Support of the Grant Application for a Mini Grant from the State Board of the Great
Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund for the Eagle River Preserve
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Ron Siebert, Project Management
Commissioner Stavney asked about item J. He asked for clarification about the request. He wondered
about the Dotsero takeout.
Chairman Fisher asked the Attorney's Office if there were any changes to the Consent Agenda.
Bryan Treu, County Attorney stated that there were no changes.
Commissioner Runyon moved to approve the Consent Agenda, Items A -J.
Commissioner Stavney seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
Citizen Input
Chairman Fisher opened and closed citizen Input, as there was none.
Resolution 2010 -100 Designating August 2010 as National Child Support Month
Kristie Williamson, Health & Human Services
Nola Nicholson presented the information. She introduced the professionals who help with child support.
They exceeded state performance measures in four out of five categories.
Chairman Fisher thanked the department for their efforts. Eagle County has a history of being one of the
best in the state for our collection process.
Commissioner Runyon stated that he admired their efforts as well. He wondered how many cases there
were.
Ms. Nicholson stated that there had been over 600 families.
Commissioner Runyon read the resolution for the record and moved to approve the resolution designating
August 2010 as National Child Support Month.
Commissioner Stavney seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
Commissioner Stavney moved to adjourn as the Board of County Commissioners and re- convene as the
Eagle County Liquor Licensing Authority.
Commissioner Runyon seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
Eagle County Liquor License Authority
Kathy Scriver, Clerk and Recorder's Office
Consent Agenda
Renewals
A. Extended Family Stone, LLC d/b /a The French Press
#40- 42040 -0000
This is a renewal of a Hotel and Restaurant License in Edwards. There have been no complaints or
disturbances in the past year. All the necessary fees have been paid. An Alcohol Management Plan is on
file in the Clerk's Office and proof of server training has been provided.
B. Terrance S. Marcum d/b /a Shop and Hop #3
#03- 81414 -0000
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This is a renewal of a 3.2% Beer License in Eagle Vail. There have been no complaints or disturbances in
the past year. All the necessary fees have been paid. An Alcohol Management Plan is on file in the Clerk's
Office and proof of server training has been provided.
C Rio Rancho, LLC d/b /a Rancho Del Rio
#26- 18840 -0000
This is a renewal of a Retail Liquor Store License in Bond. There have been no complaints or
disturbances in the past year. All the necessary fees have been paid. An Alcohol Management Plan is on
file in the Clerk's Office and proof of server training has been provided.
D. MRT Wines, Inc. d/b /a Beaver Creek Fine Wines
#07 -60032 -0000
This is a renewal of a Retail Liquor Store License in Beaver Creek. There have been no complaints or
disturbances in the past year. All the necessary fees have been paid. An Alcohol Management Plan is on
file in the Clerk's Office and proof of server training has been provided.
E. Vilar Center Arts Foundation - Vail Valley Foundation d/b /a Vilar Center for the Arts
#04- 38327 -0001
This is a renewal of a Arts License in Beaver Creek. There have been no complaints or disturbances in
the past year. All the necessary fees have been paid. An Alcohol Management Plan is on file in the Clerk's
Office and proof of server training has been provided.
Commissioner Stavney moved that the Board approve the Liquor Consent Agenda for August 24, 2010
consisting of Items A -E.
Commissioner Runyon seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
APPLICANT: Vilar Center for the Arts Foundation
DBA: Vilar Center for the Arts
REPRESENTATIVE: Theresa Jimenez - Anders
LOCATION: 68 Avondale Lane — Beaver Creek
REQUEST: Modify Premises
STAFF REPRESENTATIVE: Kathy Scriver
CONCERNS/ISSUES: None
DESCRIPTION:
The applicant has requested a permit to modify the premises. The modification would expand the license
premises to include the driveway and island area outside the front upper lobby (5010.5 square ft.). If approved the
area would be used for special and private events. When the area is in use, physical boundaries consisting of tables,
fencing, and barricades will be in place to insure security of the boundaries. The said area is owned by the
applicant and is contiguous with the licensed premises (diagram attached).
STAFF FINDINGS:
1. The application is in order, all requirements have been met, and all fees were paid.
2. A diagram of the current licensed premises and a diagram of the proposed changes was provided by the
applicant.
3. The applicant has amended the alcohol management plan to include the extended area.
4. As the license boundary will change, public notice was posted on the premises 10 days prior to the hearing.
5. The applicant has submitted proof of possession of premises.
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6. The proposed area is not within 500 feet of any public or parochial school or the campus of any college,
university, or seminary.
7. No complaints or concerns have been received.
DISCUSSION:
Theresa Jimenez - Anders was present on behalf of the applicant. She explained how they would control the
area. They would have stanchions to keep alcohol in the designated area. The island would be available for
registration but the area would be enclosed.
Commissioner Stavney wondered if this was a permanent addition of space.
Ms. Jimenez - Anders stated that this would be the case. She explained that anytime the area was used there
would be security.
Commissioner Stavney spoke about the challenge of adding a non - defined area with limited boundaries.
Chairman Fisher spoke about the map and knowledge of the facility.
Ms. Jimenez - Anders provided more detail about the boundaries. She expected about three events each summer.
Chairman Fisher wondered about the reasons for adding outdoor space.
Ms. Jimenez- Anders explained that they needed the extra room, and the facility inside was a bit stark. This
addition would add atmosphere.
Commissioner Stavney spoke about the event licenses throughout the year.
Mr. Treu stated that staff could keep communication with the applicant to make sure temporary boundaries and
security were provided for each situation.
Ms. Scriver didn't think a special events permit was possible.
Chairman Fisher spoke about the addition of an optional premises and using the same type of requirements of
notification to the clerk's office. She suggested limiting the use to a fixed number of events. She wondered if the
Beaver Creek Resort Association could provide a letter of support.
Commissioner Stavney wondered about ushers and bartenders.
Ms. Jimenez - Anders stated that the maximum would be 25, but there could be a need to be more. She stated
that if there was a special event at the location all service would be provided by Vilar staff.
Chairman Fisher expressed concern about possible irritation of the neighbors above the space. She asked how
many events should be approved.
Ms. Jimenez - Anders listed the events for which she anticipated this could be used. She showed the maps and
provided some detail. She would resubmit the drawing to accurately reflect the exact area being requested.
Commissioner Stavney wondered about fire protection with the driveway being blocked.
Ms. Jimenez - Anders spoke about their traditional setup and the fact that this type of setup would not prohibit
fire access.
Chairman Fisher asked for fire department approval, and suggested tabling the request until this approval along
with the support from the Beaver Creek Resort Association could be obtained.
Commissioner Stavney requested some idea of the physical separation for the boundary of the premises.
Chairman Fisher asked for a minimum number of events for which this expanded area would be used.
Ms. Jimenez - Anders understood the request.
Commissioner Stavney expressed support for the concept and all the Vilar Center does for the community.
Commissioner Stavney moved to table the file until September 7 2010.
Commissioner Runyon seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
Commissioner Runyon moved to adjourn as the Eagle County Liquor Licensing Authority and re- convene
as the Eagle County Board of Health.
Commissioner Stavney seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
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Eagle County Board of Health
Resolution 2010 -101 Adopting a New Fee Schedule Applicable to Environmental
Services of the Eagle County Environmental Health Department Effective January 1,
2011
Ray Merry, Environmental Health explained the request.
Mr. Merry stated that it had been a number of years since fees had been reviewed. These fees would likely
be reviewed in the future on an annual basis.
Chairman Fisher asked how many years it had been. She wanted to have the opportunity to see the existing
fee structure to compare the new fee increases.
Mr. Merry stated that it had been 7 years since the fees had been reviewed. He explained the fee structure
and the staff time involved in determining the fees. Often time multiple site visits are required to determine if
corrections are required. There was also a re- inspection fee. In the future, they hoped that the customer would be
able to get more information on line.
Chairman Fisher wondered about new applications. She agreed that having more technology would be
valuable. She wondered how our fees compared to Summit and Pitkin.
Mr. Merry believed that what the other Counties charged was irrelevant. Statute caps fees at $1000.00.
Commissioner Stavney complimented Mr. Merry on the time he spent on figuring out the actual cost of
providing this service.
Mr. Merry utilized formulas that were established statewide to determine fees for each particular service.
Commissioner Stavney stated that Eagle County provides this service and inspections for some county
municipalities as well as in the unincorporated areas.
Chairman Fisher opened and closed public comment, as there was none.
Commissioner Stavney moved to approve the resolution adopting a new fee schedule applicable to
environmental services of the Eagle County Environmental Health Department effective January 1, 2011.
Commissioner Runyon seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
Commissioner Runyon moved to adjourn as the Eagle County Board of Health and re- convene as the Eagle
County Commissioners.
Commissioner Stavney seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
Resolution 2010 -102 Regarding Adoption of the Financial Management
Policies
John Lewis and Cindy Preytis, Finance
Commissioner Stavney asked about the bid process for items over $20,000. He felt this was somewhat
confusing and that it was $25,000 in the past.
Mr. Lewis stated that $25,000 was what was capitalized on the books.
Commissioner Stavney wondered about the $10,000 cap on capitol items. He asked about the different
benchmarks.
Mr. Lewis clarified that one has to do with written contracts and operating expense where the cost exceeds
$20,000 that were not capitol items.
Commissioner Stavney wondered what would happen if a department did not follow this procedure.
He asked about the credit card policy.
Mr. Lewis stated that this would be reported and the county manager.
Ms. Preytis stated that the credit card policy was on the internet and every agreement that cardholders sign.
Commissioner Stavney asked about debt management. He wondered about the threshold.
Mr. Lewis stated that it had not changed. He thanked Cindy Preytis for her work in making these changes.
These policies needed to be formalized on a regular basis.
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Commissioner Stavney spoke about the alignment with policy governance. He suggested adding that
language.
Chairman Fisher expressed her appreciation. She is a firm believer that if was not in writing it did not
exist.
Chairman Fisher opened and closed public comment, as there was none.
Commissioner Stavney moved to approve the resolution adopting the Financial Management Policies.
Commissioner Runyon seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
Resolution 2010 -103 Providing for the Submission, to the Registered Qualified
Electors of Eagle County, Colorado, of a Question Which Would Extend Term
Limitations for the Office of County Commissioner Imposed in Accordance with
Article XVIII, Section 11 of the Constitution of the State of Colorado; Said Ballot
Question to be Submitted at the General Election to be Held November 2, 2010;
Prescribing the Form of Ballot Question for Submission at Said Election; Providing
for Certification of the Election Question to the County Clerk and Recorder; and
Otherwise Providing for the Conduct Thereof
County Attorney's Office Representative Diane Mauriello
Chairman Fisher stated that one of her constituents asked for the addition of a guarantee that none of the
current board members would run. She believed term limits came with elections and preferred giving the public the
option to keep people in office who are serving well.
Commissioner Runyon concurred that the board had said their peace. He did not intend to run for a third
term.
Commissioner Stavney stated that it was not about the current board. He had received feedback that term
limits were positive in all positions.
Chairman Fisher stated that this would not add cost to the election.
Commissioner Stavney read the ballot language.
Chairman Fisher opened and closed public comment, as there was none.
Commissioner Runyon moved to approve the resolution providing for the Submission, to the Registered
Qualified Electors of Eagle County, Colorado, of a Question Which Would Extend Term Limitations for the Office
of County Commissioner Imposed in Accordance with Article XVIII, Section 11 of the Constitution of the State of
Colorado; Said Ballot Question to be Submitted at the General Election to be Held November 2, 2010; Prescribing
the Form of Ballot Question for Submission at Said Election; Providing for Certification of the Election Question to
the County Clerk and Recorder; and Otherwise Providing for the Conduct Thereof.
Commissioner Stavney seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
Resolution Providing for the Submission, to the Registered Qualified Electors of
Eagle County, Colorado, of a Question to Determine Whether Eagle County Electors
are in Favor of Elected Officials Adopting Regulations Prohibiting Medical
Marijuana Businesses in Eagle County, Colorado; Said Ballot Question to be
Submitted at the General Election to be held November 2, 2010; Prescribing the
Form of Ballot Question for Submission at Said Election; Providing for Certification
of the Election Question to the County Clerk and Recorder; and Otherwise Providing
for the Conduct Thereof
County Attorney's Office Representative
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Commissioner Stavney stated that there had been some significant discussion about the language. He
believed that by now the voters understood what the marijuana dispensaries and medical marijuana business were
about in a way they did not understand when it was first passed.
Mr. Treu provided some clarification about why the language was worded the way it was. Several counties
had banned it. Many counties were going to a vote. He believed that Eagle County was taking a conservative
approach.
Chairman Fisher stated that when the vote passed in 2000, although it passed in Colorado it was in conflict
with federal laws. The legislature didn't act because of this. The question being put to the voters would attempt to
clean up the situation.
Commissioner Runyon stated that he felt it was appropriate to confer again with the voters. He did not
have a position as an elected official.
Chairman Fisher added that the ballot had space and there would not be any additional cost to adding the
question.
Teak Simonton, Clerk and Recorder, stated that whether or not costs would be added had not yet been
determined.
Chairman Fisher opened public comment.
Rohn Robbins and Beth Ayers were present as representatives for medical marijuana business owners.
Ms. Ayers wondered about the working of the question. She spoke about the word "prohibits" in the
language. She worried that people would get the wrong meaning. She cited the relative code. She asked the board
to consider stating - "are you in favor of the BoCC adopting regulations either continuing to permit and regulate or
licensing and regulating medical marijuana businesses." She also suggested splitting the question into three parts
so that the medical marijuana businesses were not lumped together.
Commissioner Stavney wondered how the different ballot language would be interpreted if the vote was no.
Ms. Ayers clarified that by asking the question in a more permissive manner it would provide better
direction.
Mr. Robbins stated that his client was in favor of a public vote. He asked that the board reconsider the
ballot language. His position was that the way a question was phrased might suggest the answer desired. He asked
for a more neutral question. He suggested asking the question "should the BoCC continue to permit the lawful
operation of medical marijuana businesses in unincorporated Eagle County subject to reasonable regulation ?" This
would represent a straw poll from the electorate.
Chairman Fisher wondered about reasonable regulations and whether this would open the door to debate.
There were eight and a half years of no action and one and a half years of activity. She felt this would help clean
up after the fact. Counties now had the right to prohibit these businesses. The question was should the board
change what they had done already.
Mr. Robbins stated that the code indicated that the county may adopt and enforce a resolution or ordinance
licensing, regulating, or prohibiting, giving it all three discretionary powers. He believed the more appropriate way
was to ask if it should continue to be lawful, since it was already lawful. If voters want it to continue, the board
was fully within its rights to solicit input as to what those regulations should be.
Mr. Treu stated that the reference to the statute was about timing. The county was focusing on the local
option, which stated the operation of the article should be statewide unless the majority of the registered electors or
majority of the members of the governing board votes to prohibit the operation medical marijuana centers, etc. He
suggested the board consider what would help them make their decision.
Commissioner Stavney stated that he intended to regulate the businesses regardless. The real question was
what language was clearest to the voters. He agreed that Mr. Robbins' suggested language was good.
Mr. Treu stated that it was put in the negative as it tracked what the statute said. He though there should be
some qualifiers as to what reasonable meant.
Mr. Robbins stated that really all that was desired was a yes or no vote.
Commissioner Runyon stated that if a voter chose no, they were in favor of medical marijuana. The clarity
of the question was important. He felt that Mr. Robbins' current language suggestion was better.
Mr. Treu repeated the question as proposed by Mr. Robbins.
Mr. Robbins stated that the interpretation was close. He repeated the ballot language with his suggestions.
Chairman Fisher believed that the board was handicapped from the start. They didn't have a right to not
allow these businesses.
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Commissioner Stavney spoke about the confusion. He asked Mr. Treu if the voters said no, what he would
take that to mean.
Mr. Treu stated that it would indicate a no to ban.
Commissioner Stavney spoke about a no vote.
Mr. Treu stated that the board already had the power to ban the businesses. It would help the board make
the ultimate decision as they already had by statute.
Chairman Fisher wondered if the question would confuse the voters. She was content with the attorney's
recommendation. She was not opposed to switching it either. She felt it would take on a life of its own regardless
of the language. It was not unlike the term limit question.
Ms. Mauriello stated that her remarks were similar to Mr. Treu's statements related to clarity of the
question for the voters.
Mr. Treu clarified his reasoning. He was somewhat flexible.
Mr. Robbins suggested that his wording gave greater clarity.
Chairman Fisher stated that they had already imposed regulations. The only remaining question was
whether the board had done the right thing.
Mr. Robbins stated that the regulations were temporary. This question would support continuance with
reasonable regulation.
Ms. Ayers believed that "reasonable regulations" was important to add.
Commissioner Runyon spoke about the difference between the two types of language. He wanted to know
the current mood of the electorate given today's knowledge of everything involved.
Commissioner Stavney asked about the timing.
Ms. Simonton indicated that the deadline for ballot language was September 3.
Chairman Fisher stated that her comfort level could go either way. She made some suggestions about
changes to the language. She supported tabling.
Commissioner Runyon moved to table the item until August 31, 2010.
Commissioner Stavney seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
Commissioner Runyon moved to adjourn as the Board of County Commissioners and re- convene as the
Eagle County Air Terminal Corporation.
Commissioner Stavney seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
Eagle County Air Terminal Corporation
Airport Representative
1. Approval of minutes
a. May 4, 2010 meeting
b. June 22, 2010 meeting
Mr. Stavney moved to approve the minutes of the May 4 and June 22, 2010 meetings.
Mr. Runyon seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
2. Consideration for execution:
a. Other Transaction Agreement between Department of Homeland Security, Transportation
Security Administration and Eagle County Air Terminal Corporation, relating to the Eagle
County Regional Airport, Checked Baggage Screening Project
Mr. Anderson explained the terms of the agreement. The first agreement was with the Department
of Homeland Security. The purpose was to outline the agreement for partial funding of the inline baggage
system design and installation which was a grant totaling $4.6 million dollars towards the $5.6 million total
cost. ECAT's contribution would be around 1 million of which would taken out of the ECAT capital
budget - $250,000 in 2010 and the remaining $750,000 in 2011. The detail design phase would begin in
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late January, the bid phase would take until mid February, and the construction phase would occur in mid
February wrapping up by mid September, for implementation for the 2012 ski season.
Ms. Fisher stated that partial construction would occur during the end of the 2011 ski season.
Mr. Stavney liked the idea of the large amount of grant funds available. He wondered how
spending a million dollars on this would be more beneficial than other expenditures.
Mr. Anderson stated that they went through a terminal planning process and the three -phase plan
was approved by the board at that time. The primary issues were congestion, adding new airlines, adding a
TSA checkpoint during high times. The first benefit of this project was passenger convenience and service
to alleviate congestion.
Mr. Stavney clarified the type of enhancement. He spoke about the exact area in question.
Mr. Anderson stated that there were four large baggage- screening stations near the ticket counters
and it took ticket counters out of commission. Doing this project would allow freeing up of congested
areas. The retail services would be relocated.
Mr. Stavney wondered how many linear feet of counter space were in question.
Mr. Anderson stated that it was about 175 feet.
Mr. Stavney stated that some portion of this space was the pass through and could become part of
expediting the TSA area.
Mr. Anderson stated that adding more than one additional airline would cause difficulty due to lack
of space.
Ms. Fisher added some history. Phase 3 would allow other expansions on the public side. She felt
it was well planned. She commended the airport staff for making this happen.
Mr. Runyon stated that this was not new technology, it was the same system used in most airports.
Mr. Anderson indicated that this was true.
Mr. Stavney wondered why there was $760,000 worth of testing and didn't understand why 20% of
the costs would be for testing. He also asked about $460,000 as contingency. He didn't see any clarity in
terms of cost sharing of savings.
Ms. Mauriello stated that TSA would support 95% of the project and ECAT would cover the rest.
On savings, the division was not stated.
Mr. Anderson stated that TSA looked at eligible and ineligible parts of the project. Repairing
carpet was an example of an ineligible part of the project.
Mr. Stavney requested that this be clarified in the agreement.
Mr. Anderson stated that they define the cost share agreement in exhibit B, which detailed all the
finances of the project. The total project cost was not demonstrated in the worksheet. He stated that the
testing process included TSA making sure that it would work. There were several testing phases, mostly
outsourced and took upwards of a month to complete.
Mr. Runyon asked about the bid process.
Mr. Anderson stated that it had not been bid, but through a competitive process, BNP Associates,
Inc. was selected to do the initial design on the project.
Mr. Runyon wondered about construction oversight.
Ms. Mauriello referred the board to paragraph 2 of the agreement. She spoke about the division of
costs. The TSA was granting 4.6 million. The project costs would remain within the scope of the grant
agreement.
Mr. Montag wondered who would be the owner of the system and take responsibility for operation
or maintenance cost.
Mr. Anderson stated that TSA would own the project and all improvements and maintenance
would be the responsibility of ECAT. He expected about $50,000 a year in additional maintenance.
Mr. Montag asked about a warranty.
Mr. Anderson stated that the warranty would probably cover about a year.
Ms. Fisher stated that the equipment would not necessarily be new equipment. There was still a lot
of work to put together the components for going out to bid.
Mr. Anderson indicated that the only thing that had been discussed thus far was the purchase of
new equipment.
Chairman Fisher opened and closed public comment. There was none.
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Mr. Stavney move to approve the agreement between Department of Homeland Security,
Transportation Security Administration and Eagle County Air Terminal Corporation, relating to the Eagle
County Regional Airport, Checked Baggage Screening Project.
Mr. Runyon seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
b. Agreement for Professional Services between Eagle County Air Terminal Corporation and
BNP Associates, Inc. for Design Services and Construction Management, related to Eagle
County Regional Airport Checked Baggage Inspection System
Mr. Anderson provided additional information.
Mr. Stavney referred to the spreadsheet and asked about the 8% for design.
Mr. Anderson clarified that construction, contingency, design, and administrations were all high -
end estimated cost. TSA was aware and acknowledged the fact that the number would move.
Mr. Runyon wondered how the applicant had been chosen.
Mr. Anderson stated that they were the low bidder and had strong references for in line projects.
They just completed a similar project in Wyoming. They were headquartered in New Jersey but had an
office in Denver.
Chairman Fisher opened public comment. There was none. She closed public comment.
Mr. Stavney moved to approve the agreement for Professional Services between Eagle County Air
Terminal Corporation and BNP Associates, Inc. for Design Services and Construction Management, related
to Eagle County Regional Airport Checked Baggage Inspection System.
Mr. Montag seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
3. New business
Mr. Treu stated that they needed to get authorization for Sara Fisher to approve the fire alarm
system being fixed. The alarm panel had lived its course. The proposal to fix it was $12,000.00.
Mr. Montag moved to approve this expenditure.
Mr. Runyon seconded the motion. It was declared unanimous.
Ms. Fisher shared that she had discussed with Mr. Anderson the desire to spread the word about the
HATS construction. She was interested in putting educational opportunities in the secured area of the
airport.
Mr. Treu added that the National Guard was instrumental in rescuing Glen Porzak when he fell
recently.
Mr. Stavney added his desire that this educational opportunity be pursued.
Commissioner Runyon moved to adjourn as the Eagle County Air Terminal Corporation and re-
convene as the Board of County Commissioners
Commissioner Stavney spoke about the master plan aligning with what the board wanted to
encourage in the future. He looked forward to this discussion.
Mr. Anderson stated that the scope of work was forwarded back with FAA's comments and had
been sent down to JB Aviation for a final clean up.
Mr. Montag added that it was an extensive process just to get the consultant on board.
Commissioner Stavney seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
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Future Meeting Agendas
Keith spoke about Riverview update by Alex Potente, and Karen Sheaffer would present the investment
policy and the DOW will come in to discuss deer and elk populations. CDOT will be discussing the I -70 impact
statement.
Budget Update
John Lewis, Finance
Recorded
Cost Allocation Plan Presentation
Eric Parish, MGT of America
Recorded
Avon Town Council Meeting
Avon Council Chambers
Recorded
Planning Files
PDS -2313 Eagle River Meadows
Scot Hunn, Planning
NOTE: Tabled from 01/26/10, 03/30/10, 05/25/10, 06/08/10 & 07/06/10
ACTION: The purpose for this Sketch Plan is for a mixed use Planned Unit Development, inclusive of
residential, commercial, medical, and office uses. Proposal also includes active and passive
recreational and open space uses.
LOCATION: Former `B &B Gravel Mine" site generally situated along Hwy 6 Edwards, Colorado, NW 1/4,
Section 5, Township 5, Range 82.
FILE NO./PROCESS: PDS -2313; PUD Sketch Plan
OWNER: The Atira Group
APPLICANT: Owners
REPRESENTATIVE: Lance Badger
STAFF ENGINEER: Ben Gerdes
1. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
A. SUMMARY OF REOUEST:
The applicant requests Sketch Plan review for a new Planned Unit Development (PUD) — "Eagle River Meadows."
The 105 -acre PUD is being planned as a mixed -use residential and commercial development the former `B &B
Gravel Pit" site in Edwards, Colorado. The property is owned by BWAB REEF Gravel Pit LLC, and currently
accommodates approved industrial uses including the B &B Excavating batch plant operations.
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The project consists of three primary land use components: mixed use commercial/medical, professional office
uses, as well as multi - family residential uses. In addition to these primary use categories, the applicant proposes
the inclusion of significant recreational and conservation oriented open space. The following is proposed:
• 380 Residential Dwelling Units, of which 301 are proposed as "multi- family" units, while 79 are proposed
as town home units. (The applicant has committed to providing 160 deed restricted units, with the
remainder of the housing being offered as either free market or "resident occupied ").
• 261,000 square feet of commercial uses, comprised of "medical office ", "support commercial ", and
"support retail ". (The commercial components of the project center on creating a medical, health and
wellness campus).
• 68 acres (or approximately 65% of the site) in open space — to be preserved for conservation and active
recreation purposes. (A majority of the proposed open space acreage is currently identified as being within
designated floodplain areas consisting of sensitive wetland, riparian and mesic meadow land areas).
The property is located adjacent to and immediately westward of the Eagle River Preserve property, along the State
Highway 6 corridor in Edwards, Colorado. The property is bordered to the north by the Interstate 70 right -of -way;
to the south by Highway 6; to the east by the Preserve (open space) and Eaton Ranch; and, to the west by the Brett
Ranch PUD, inclusive of the South Fork Meadows, Brett Ranch Villas and Lake Creek Apartments.
B. BACKGROUND
Gravel Mining History
Eagle River Meadows PUD is planned at the site of the B &B Gravel Mine. The gravel pit operations have existed
on or near the subject property since the early 1970's, prior to the enactment of zoning regulations in Eagle County,
in 1974. The earliest record of an approved special use (to allow for expansion of the operations) for excavation on
the site was in 1976, via a special use permit (Eagle County File No. ZS- 23 -76). Since that time, several special
use permits have been approved to allow further expansion of mining operations in the vicinity of the subject
property, with the last expansion approved in 1996. During the processes to review and approve expansion of
mining operations, environmental violations (chemical and fuel spills) on the site were documented, requiring clean
up actions. The Eagle County Environmental Health Department has characterized (portions of) the site as being
an area of "known of fuel contamination ". Evidence of contaminants in soil and groundwater samples are
addressed within a Corrective Action Plan Modification report dated April 8, 2009, by Terracon Consultants. The
site has been undergoing remediation work to meet State of Colorado Health Department requirements.
The Preserve
In 2005, Eagle County, working in collaboration with the Vail Valley Foundation, facilitated the purchase of 72
acres of the former B &B Gravel Mine, to create "The Eagle River Preserve ". The Preserve is currently held in a
conservation easement by the Eagle Valley Land Trust and serves the community as a regional, passive -use park.
Previous land uses contemplated on this parcel included mixed use commercial, residential and service
development.
Remaining B &B Parcel
The Applicant purchased the subject property, comprised of several, separate parcels of land collectively known as
the `B &B Gravel Pit" site, in 2008, and currently leases back certain portions of the property located on the south
side of the Eagle River to B &B Excavating for ongoing gravel extraction and batch plant operations. The
aforementioned lease is for a period of five (5) years.
The Edwards Plan — Site 2
In 2003, Eagle County completed the Edwards Area Community Plan Update. This plan update, made part of the
Eagle County Comprehensive Plan, provided general updates to the 1985 master plan for the Edwards area. The
update sets forth the future land use for the area as well as preferred development scenarios. More recently, Plan
was updated again in 2009 to include Urban Design Elements for the Edwards Core Area. The Eagle River
Meadows site is not subject to the Urban Design guidelines.
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The Plan includes a Future Land Use Map (FLUM) and associated narrative sections depicting and describing
where future development should occur. This section of the Plan describes individual parcels or "sites" which have
been identified as having a "high probability for development pressure over time." The subject site is currently
identified as "Site 2" on the Future Land Use Map and is described, along with several sites in the Edwards area, as
a site with "high probability for development pressure over time. " Such designation anticipates mixed use and
"medium density" development on the southern portion of the site, while prescribing open space uses as the
preferred land use opportunity for the northern portions of the property.
The PUD and the Eagle River
The proposed PUD includes 105 total acres, with development proposed on approximately 36 acres on both the
south and north portions of the property (see site plan below). The site is bisected by the Eagle River and contains
significant floodplain, riparian and wetland areas. In 2007, Colorado State University prepared the Eagle River
Inventory and Assessment on behalf of the Eagle River Watershed Council. The primary objectives of the study
were to "create an inclusive, baseline inventory and assessment of the 110 miles of the main stem and lower
tributaries of the Eagle River, as well as develop a set of recommendations to efficiently guide future river
conservation work" The study set forth a prioritized list of restoration and conservation projects for the river.
Working from that list, in conjunction with past and present owners of the subject site, the Watershed Council has
undertaken a multi - million dollar restoration project along the stretch of the river running through the subject site.
Water and Sewer
The Eagle River Water and Sanitation District has reviewed the proposal preliminarily and has indicated their
intention and capacity to provide water and sewer service to the development site. The applicant will be required to
provide adequate evidence of the District's ability to serve the development.
Context of Area
The map below depicts the proposed site plan for the PUD "ortho- rectified" on top of aerial photography. This
map also shows the Eagle River Preserve master plan next to the proposed development, to add context: to Eagle
River Meadows and the surrounding land uses.
C. CHRONOLOGY
1976: Application for Special Use Permit to expand pre - existing gravel mine operations (ZS- 23 -76).
1981: Application for Special Use Permit to amend and expand approved gravel mine operations (ZS -131. -81).
1984: Application for Special Use Permit to amend and expand approved gravel mine operations (ZS- 208 -84;
Amendment to ZS- 131 -81).
1996: Application for Special Use Permit to expand approved gravel mine operation (Amendment to ZS- 131 -81).
2009: Application submitted to Eagle County for Sketch Plan for PUD for "The Eagle River Meadows PUD ".
D. SITE DATA:
k7 ut f i U1rFJ i , .ris: s kk
PtA
North: I -70 ROW `R' Cordillera Valley Club PUD `PUD'
South: Hwy. 6 ROW `R' Homestead PUD. `PUD'
East:
The Eagle River Preserve " / `RTPUD' Eaton Ranch Parcel B R
Edwards Nursery PUD
Brett Ranch PUD (South Fork
West: Meadows; Villas at Brett `PUD'
Ranch
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�lt t < Y Resource (R)
)►� a d tY ; �' Planned Unit Development (PUD)
€gi7ct�i�ti>t^ B &B Excavating Batch Plant
Relatively flat irrigated pasture; Eagle River and associated wetland and riparian areas
(including native and restored river corridor), and previously disturbed areas associated with
y , previous y avel mine operations.
T04%0( 'Acres { : 105 acres 1 4,573,800 sq. ft.
68 acres 65%
The ECLUR's recommend that
t1t��`eet h'Actso `` 68 acres = 65% 7 25% of the total land area be set
l
ass d fi � i b; aside as useable open space
-W 000' P u bl ic UERWA Privy N/A
Sewer PtiBh� ; ERWSD vat4 N/A
ece s Via State Highway 6; Hillcrest Drive
E. REFERRAL RESPONSES:
Referral copies of this application were sent to thirty -seven (37) agencies for review on July 21, 2009. The
following section references the comments of all agencies that submitted an official referral response to
Eagle County prior to the date of this writing:
Eagle County Environmental Health Department — Please refer to attached referral response letter dated
August 12, 2009; and follow -up correspondence from the Applicant.
• See condition(s): 2
Eagle County Engineering Department — Please refer to attached referral response letter dated August
12, 2009 and follow -up correspondence from the Applicant.
• See condition(s): 3
Eagle County Housing and Development Department — Please refer to attached letter from the attached
referral response letter dated January 12, 2010 and corresponding letter from the Applicant, dated January
8, 2010, regarding the Applicant's intent to meet the requirements of the housing guidelines and their
commitment to continue working with Eagle County Staff to explore potential mitigation alternatives.
• See condition(s): 6
ECO Trails Committee — Please refer to attached referral response letter dated August 13, 2009 and
follow -up correspondence from the Applicant.
• See condition(s): 4
ECO Transit — Please refer to the attached referral response letter dated August 11, 2009 and follow -up
correspondence from the Applicant.
• See condition(s): 5
State of Colorado Geological Survey — Please refer to attached referral response letter dated August 14,
2009 and follow -up correspondence from the Applicant.
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• See condition(s): 7
State of Colorado Division of Wildlife - Please refer to the attached referral response letter dated August
10, 2009 and follow -up correspondence from the Applicant.
• See condition(s): 8
State of Colorado, Solid Waste and Materials Management Unit — Please refer to the attached referral
response letter dated August 11, 2009.
• See condition(s): 9
Colorado Division of Water Resources - Please refer to the attached referral response letter dated July 23,
2009 and follow -up correspondence from the Applicant.
Northwest Council of Governments (NWCOG) — Please refer to the attached referral response letter
dated August 12, 2009 and follow -up correspondence from the Applicant.
• See condition(s): 10
Eagle River Watershed Council (ERWC) — Please refer to the attached referral response letter(s) dated
August 17, 2009 and October 21, 2009 and follow -up correspondence from the Applicant.
• See condition(s): 11
Eagle Rive Water and Sanitation District (ERWSD) - Please refer to the attached "Conditional Service
Capacity Commitment" letter dated November 25, 2009.
• See condition(s): 12
Brett Ranch Villas Home Owner's Association — Please refer to the attached referral response letter
dated August 5, 2009 and follow -up correspondence from the Applicant.
Homestead Home Owner's Association - Please refer to the attached referral response letter dated August
12, 2009 and follow -up correspondence from the Applicant.
Additional Referral Agencies - This proposal was referred to the following agencies with no written
response received as of this writing:
• Eagle County: Assessor's Office; Attorney's Office; Animal Services; Road and Bridge; Sheriff's
Office; Weed and Pest Control; Eagle County Wildfire Mitigation Specialist
• Colorado State: CDOT; Division of Water Resources; State Historical Society; Health Department;
Water Conservation Board
• Federal: Bureau of Land Management; Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA)
• Service Districts: Eagle River Fire Protection District; Holy Cross Electric; Quest /PTI /Century Tel;
Ambulance District; Source Gas /Excel Energy
• Other: Town of Avon; School District; Edwards Authority; Edwards Metropolitan District; Colorado
Historical Society; Eagle County Historical Society
• Home Owners Associations: Cordillera Valley Club
F. PLANNING COMMISSION DELIBERATION
The Eagle County Planning Commission (ECPC) held a series of eight hearings to consider the Eagle River
Meadows Sketch Plan for PUD application — from December, 2009, until April, 2010.
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During the course of the Planning Commission's review, several major topics of consideration and/or
concern were identified by the Commission members. Such topics were addressed by Staff and the
Applicant in manner that grouped issues together logically over the course of the review. The following is
a list of the topic areas, the dates in which they were discussed, as well as a general description of the
discussions that occurred.
December 16, 2009
At the Applicant's request, the Planning Commission tabled the file until January 20, 2010 to allow Staff
and Applicant to continue working on certain aspects of the file, including discussions regarding the
housing guidelines and potential options for mitigation.
January 20, 2010
The Planning Commission discussed several topics of concern, or asked general questions about the
proposed PUD — to be addressed at future meetings.
February 3, 2010:
Exception to the Edwards Area Community Plan
The Commission clarified that any "exception" to the Edwards Area Community Plan and Future Land Use
Map (FLUM) would occur as part of any Preliminary Plan approval process; while the Planning
Commission could recommend approval of the exception on a conditional basis during their consideration
of Sketch Plan, no "action" to either approve or deny the exception would be taken until Preliminary Plan.
The Commission agreed to schedule and advertise a hearing to discuss the exception process in more detail.
Of note: at the suggestion of the planning commission (De Chant), Staff sent mailed notification to each
citizen volunteer who participated in the 2003 update process (the Update Committee), inviting them to
participate in an advertised hearing on the matter to be held on March 3, 2010.
Trails and Open Space
Ellie Caryl was present to discuss ECO Trails recommendations for paved trail sections running through
the property. The Commission and the Applicant discussed issues related to proposed trail segments on the
property, the trade -offs between paved and unpaved or "naturalized" trials and the specifications of the
Eagle County Regional trail system. Ultimately, the Applicant agreed with a recommendation by ECO
Trails to provide a 10' wide paved regional trail segment.
Environmental Health & Corrective Action Plan
Ray Merry was present to discuss the "Corrective Action Plan" for the B &B mine clean -up and he clarified
that, although the clean up was a state regulated (oversight) activity, the Eagle County Environmental
Health Department is recommending that the Applicant be required to contract a 3 party review of
hazardous materials remediation efforts 011 the southern portion of the property. The Applicant clarified
that portions of the site are currently being remediated and that prior to B &B Excavating relinquishing their
lease for batch plant operations (2014), they are required under an agreement with the Atira Group to
conduct additional clean -up operations as a result of their ongoing, limited operations. Wood burning
controls were also discussed, with the Applicant confirming that wood burning devices are addressed
within the PUD Guide.
Existing Conditions
The Commission discussed the existing conditions on the site, expressing some concern regarding the grade
differences between the Highway 6 platform and the proposed grade of new access roads and development
planning areas. Specifically, questions were asked regarding the amount of fill required to construct
internal circulation, as well as the proposed use of building foundations within Planning Parcels A, B and C
as retaining walls — to hold back steep slopes and large amounts of fill on the south side of the property.
The Applicant addressed this concern by stating that such design is possible and common place, but the
solution will be more costly (due to the amount of fill required to match and blend finished grades to
surrounding sites).
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Access Points
A question was raised regarding the original (existing) access to the property; why the Applicant had not
used this access point rather than creating the need for filling of the site to accommodate the proposed
access — opposite Lake Creek Road. Staff and Applicant addressed this by discussing the fact that CDOT,
in previous meetings held to discuss the intersection at Lake Creek, prefers to create any new access to the
site at the Lake Creek Road intersection; that the existing access point
Wetlands Mapping
The Applicant described the latest wetlands mapping that had been completed by their consultant, Walsh
Environmental Scientists and Engineers. The new mapping, completed since development and submittal of
the Sketch Plan application, showed additional areas of supposed wetlands associated with two named
tributaries — Beard Creek and Deadhorse Gulch - on the northern portion of the property. The Applicant
described how both stream channels appeared to have been damaged — causing flood irrigation on the
northern portion of the site. As well, the Applicant explained future steps that would be taken to work with
Walsh and the Army Corps of Engineers to further delineate the wetlands and to provide for a "Tributary
Restoration Plan" to essentially re- channelize the streams (to their historic alignments) and to rebuild and
restore natural drainage patterns. The Applicant explained how any wetlands mitigation needed (in
response to any wetlands disturbed by development) would be undertaken elsewhere on the property —
working in conjunction with the Eagle River Watershed Council. The Applicant and the Planning
Commission discussed how the land plan will most likely be revised to reflect any restoration plan
approved by the Corps.
Senior and Affordable Housing
Alex Potente was present to discuss the Eagle County Housing and Development Department's position
regarding senior housing in the valley, as well as the need and appropriateness for affordable housing stock
in the Edwards area. Mr. Potente described the property locale as "advantageous" for housing due to its
proximity to job and community centers and transportation/transit routes and characterized the north side of
the property as being appropriate for housing, similar to the Villas at Brett Ranch. Questions were raised
location f h m n the north side of the property necessitating a local feeder bus
regarding the of housing on p p y g
system. The Applicant did acknowledge conceptual plans to provide funding for such feeder system,
adding that such system could benefit adjacent developments (Villas at Brett Ranch and Lake Creek
Apartments), but that such system would NOT be run by ECO Transit. On the issue of senior housing, the
Applicant reiterated that the PUD was drafted to be broad in its potential use categories (if to be
inclusionary to a range of future uses), and that discussions have been held with senior housing /Assisted
Living (AL) and Continuum of Care Retirement Community (CCRC) operators. However, the Applicant
also acknowledged the County Housing and Development Department's preference to pursue development
of such facilities in Eagle.
February 17, 2010
Traffic, Transportation and Funding Solutions
The Applicant and the Eagle County Engineering Staff discussed the project in context to the 2004 , U.S.
6/I -70 G Corridor Feasibility Study, which based anticipated improvements, as well as estimated costs, on
assumptions are likely out of date. As well, Ken Marchetti of the Edwards Community Authority provided
an overview of pending State legislation regarding the formation of Regional Transit Authorities and Local
Improvement Districts. The Applicant's traffic study was reviewed, as was the impact of round -about
construction (vs. signalized intersection) at the Lake Creek Road intersection; the Applicant's traffic
consultant verified that a round -about will have a positive impact on capacity levels in the area, but not
necessarily Levels of Service (LOS). Staff suggested that traffic numbers (vehicle trips per day) have
"dropped" since the 2004 study was conducted and the Commission agreed that new studies and/or
information regarding 1) current /updated traffic counts; and 2) levels of service on existing road segments
would be necessary at future meetings to more fully understand the proposed development's impacts on
local roads. One Commissioner (Brock) confirmed with the Applicant's consultant and Staff that Hwy. 6
could be widened in the future. Another member (Heicher) suggested that phasing plans be developed for
discussion — to include "trigger" points tied to development impacts such as LOS and other factors.
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Transit
Kelly Collier from ECO Transit was present to discuss the proposed development's potential impacts on
ECO's routes and operations, stating that while Sketch Plan details indicate that there will be certain
impacts on service provision and will most likely require additional capital improvements, details revealed
at any Preliminary Plan submittal will allow ECO Transit to determine exact impacts. Ms. Collier
highlighted the fact that an internal feeder system to serve the north side of the property would need to be
paid for and operated by the developer, and that ECO Transit could potentially "bid" on provision of such
services. The issue of senior housing and (para) transit needs was raised, with Ms. Collier estimating that
the cost per person for a para - transit trip would be $5. She also stated that the PUD is a good location for
such uses due to proximity to existing medical facilities. A question was raised regarding future bus stops
on both the east and west bound lanes of Hwy. 6, with Ms. Collier affirming that in addition to the stops,
cross walks would be needed for pedestrian safety.
Phasing
The Applicant presented preliminary information regarding proposed phasing, summarizing the intent to tie
future capacity issues to build -out of the project. The Applicant estimated that approximately one -third
(33 %) of the project could be completed before major off -site improvements would be required.
Commission members discussed the need to better understand (at a future meeting) how the development
phasing would be tied to "triggers" such as traffic impacts and Levels of Service (LOS). Specifically, one
commission member (Heicher) highlighted the need to better understand the LOS for the road segments in
the area; the only information presented to date concerned intersection LOS.
March 3, 2010
Exception to the Edwards Area Community Plan — (See condition No.
Staff presented the exception criteria to be addressed — inclusive of twenty -two (22) separate Community
Plan objectives. The Commission took public comment regarding the proposed "exception "to the
Community Plan policies, objectives and future land use designations.
March 17, 2010
Water and Wastewater
Linn Brooks from the Eagle River Water and Sanitation District was present to discuss the District's review
of the proposed Sketch Plan. Specifically, Ms. Brooks described the District's "Developer Approval
Process" in relation to the "conditional capacity to serve" letter received by the Applicant.
Wetlands and Conceptual Site Plan
In response to discussions held at the February 17, 2010 hearing, the Applicant provided a conceptual site
plan showing how the project design may be altered as part of any Preliminary Plan application to reflect
the Tributary Restoration Plan and/or wetlands mitigation plan. The applicant estimated that 60 dwelling
units may need to move from the north to the south portions of the development to ensure development
impacts on wetland and riparian areas will be minimized; or that such units would simply have to be
eliminated.
Land Use - Planning Parcels, Uses and Density
The Applicant presented a matrix showing proposed uses, including residential density and commercial
square footage throughout the PUD. Questions were asked about "support residential" categories (ie. short-
term residential units provided for clients, doctors and employees of medical uses), as well as what
"medical" uses were anticipated. The Applicant indicated that the PUD was purposefully drafted to allow a
broad range of potential "medical and wellness" related uses; that such details would be further defined
with any Preliminary Plan submittal. Commissioners made clear that a higher level of detail — in the form
of a market and needs analysis — would be required at Preliminary Plan. In answer to a question regarding
whether rental housing would be provided, the Applicant committed once again to work with Staff and that
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rental housing will be looked at in greater detail as part of any market and needs analysis at Preliminary
Plan.
Draft Housing Mix and Consideration of Live - Work Units
Related to the matrix discussed, the Applicant and Commission discussed the possibility (due to wetlands
mitigation and the potential loss or relocation of units on the north side of the property) that units would
transfer to the south side. One member (Campos) asked if Planning Parcel C could be a "receiving area"
for density from the northern parcels; the Applicant confirmed the possibility, noting that in the event that
units are relocated, the goal would be to achieve "no net loss" of density; that a planning principle involved
in the creation of the land plan for the PUD has been to create vitality in and around the medical campus
portions of the site by incorporating the largest portion (114 dwelling units) of deed restricted housing units
within the commercial planning parcels.
Trails and Public Parking
In response to a request by the Planning Commission made at the previous hearing, the Applicant presented
the Trails and Open Space Plan again, describing how new trails would connect to existing trails at the
Eagle River Preserve, and verifying that (per Eagle County) an additional ten parking spaces were to be
provided on the eastern portion of the property, next to the Preserve in order to provide additional open
space access to the public.
Highway 6 Right - of - Way
The Applicant and the Planning Commission discussed the existing Highway 6 corridor Right -of -Way
(ROW), with the Applicant confirming that 1) there is enough ROW to accommodate proposed
improvements, inclusive of a round -about at the Lake Creek Road intersection; separated bike paths;
shoulders; ditches; full lane widths in either direction and bus stops. One member (Heicher) asked for
clarification regarding the provision of a bus stop on the east -bound lane; the Applicant clarified that,
including CDOT ROW and Eagle River Meadows Property, there would be enough area to construct the
stop.
School Impacts and Capacity Issues
In response to a concern expressed regarding school capacity issues (whether or not the District can absorb
the impact from school aged children resulting from the PUD in the future), the Applicant informed the
Commission that he had spoken with representatives of the School District to confirm the land dedication
amount (1.153 acres) and that the District's representatives indicated that there may be other options to
meet there required mitigation.
April 7, 2010
Applicant Response to Edwards Area Community Plan Objectives
The Planning Commission was given the opportunity to ask the Applicant questions regarding a written
statement or report (by the Applicant) responding to all twenty -two (22) Community Plan objectives; no
comments or questions were received and the Planning Commission reiterated that any formal "exception"
would only be granted as part of any Preliminary Plan approval.
Medical Uses — Need and Market
One Commission member (Hammond) expressed concern regarding the proposed medical and wellness
uses — specifically the amount of square feet associated with such uses. A question was posed to the
Applicant regarding anticipated need and absorption rates. A related question was posed by another
member (Moffett) regarding the flexibility of the PUD (in the future) in the event another community in the
region also developed new medical and/or wellness campus uses. The Applicant confirmed that the PUD,
as drafted, was broad enough to allow flexibility in the future without coming back for a major amendment
and that the PUD (medical) uses reflect a substantial amount of due diligence and market study to support
the medical campus concept.
Community Character
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The Applicant responded to a previous concern by Commission members regarding one aspect of the
Edwards Area Community Plan — "community character ". The Applicant reiterated the design of the PUD
reflects a conscientious effort to respect the character of the Edwards Area and, specifically, (although not
required) to incorporate certain elements and overarching themes of the recently completed "Urban Design
Elements" for the Edwards core area. There was no further discussion regarding this topic.
Natural Resource Protection
The Applicant briefly responded to another objective of the Edwards Area Community Plan regarding
natural resource protection. The Applicant reiterated the design of the project which includes the
preservation of 68 acres of riparian, river and upland open space. Likewise, the Applicant re- stated a
commitment to continue working with the Colorado Division of Wildlife and the Eagle River Watershed
Council to incorporate additional wildlife habitat enhancement and protection design elements, restoration
efforts and ongoing maintenance into any future planning.
Traffic and Level of Service (LOS)
The Applicants traffic consultant was present along with Eagle County Engineering Staff, to specifically re-
address issues related to existing and projected levels of service in the Edwards Area — specifically the
Hwy. 6 segment from Lake Creek Road to the Spur Road, and the Spur Road/Hwy. 6 intersection. Staff
summarized the need (of Staff and the Applicant's consultant) to approach the analysis of LOS using a
hybrid classification ( "Urban" and "Rural ") due to the unique nature of the Edwards area and the rigid
standards /criteria of the International Traffic Engineer (ITE) manual. Using such hybrid classification
changed the level of service calculations to be more realistic to the Edwards area, which isn't quite rural or
urban. Staff also highlighted the fact that the 2004 Corridor Feasibility Study was outdated and that a
condition of approval may need to be drafted to contemplate an "update" to the study prior to any
Preliminary Plan. One Commission member (Heicher) asserted the need for a condition of approval,
requiring the project to conform to a level of services `C' or better. Another member (Brock) did not
believe the Applicant should be held accountable for updating the entire study, suggesting rather that the
Applicant participate in creating a "localized improvement plan" for corridor improvements directly tied to
impacts from the PUD.
April 21, 2010
Conditions of Approval
Staff presented a list of twenty -seven (27) suggested conditions of approval — revised to reflect input from
Planning Commission members — Brock, Campos, De Chant, and Heicher - as well as a suggested motion
which included language specific to the "endorsement" of an exception to the Edwards Area Community
Plan and Future Land Use Map.
Commission members discussed several conditions. Of note, Commissioner Hammond suggested that,
with regard to condition number 6, the Applicant be required (rather than "encouraged ") to work with
Eagle County staff to integrate certain housing types within the development.
Commission member Campos suggested that condition number 18 be revised to specifically
mention/require "xeriscape" materials and design elements within any future landscape plans.
Commissioner Hammond asked why, in regard to condition number 19, the Applicant would not be
required to submit a market study with each phase of development. The Applicant assured the Commission
that, typically, a market study is conducted prior to commencing subsequent phases of development.
Commissioner Hammond reiterated a concern — to ensure that a detailed phasing plan be submitted that
includes all necessary and required public improvements (and public benefits). Commissioner Hammond
suggested that are constructed in the first, or early phases of the development and that the County have
certain assurances in place with any final approval.
The same Commission member expressed her ongoing concern regarding proposed development on the
north side of the property, citing issues related to wetlands impacts and mitigation; Commissioner
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Hammond also indicated a preference to not transfer units from the north side of the property to the south
side.
General comments — final deliberations
The following summarizes, in general and in order of testimony, the Eagle County Planning Commission's
final deliberation comments regarding the proposed PUD:
Commissioner Campos
Stated that the PUD was in general conformance and that, among other significant benefits, development
on the north side and additional connectivity to /from existing developments (Villas at Brett Ranch and
Lake Creek Apartments) is paramount. Commissioner Campos suggested conditions of approval were
appropriate and that the Applicant — with any future Preliminary Plan — must set their bar "high" due to the
unique opportunity presented within the development and business plan, and in specific recognition of the
potential for economic development with regional and far reaching impacts.
Commissioner Long
Agreed with Commissioner Campos, reiterated support for the suggested conditions and the process of
review undertaken by the Planning Commission.
Commissioner Hammond
Stated her general support for the development concept, but reiterated concerns regarding potential impacts
to wetlands (and the need to further delineate wetlands and assess the impacts from any re- channelization
of Beard Creek and Deadhorse Gulch); she suggested that details regarding the locations and types of
affordable housing units deserves further scrutiny and she reiterated her contention that the burden of proof
regarding market viability and absorption of the proposed medical, wellness and residential uses will be on
the Applicant in future planning and review stages.
Commissioner De Chant
Expressed support for the proposed tenant mix, specifically the concept of medical and wellness uses in the
Edwards area and stated agreement with suggested conditions of approval.
Chairman Heicher
Citing general support for the development concept and specifically the potential benefits of the project —
such as its proximity to transportation corridors and the Edwards Community center, Chairman Heicher
stated several issues of concern, including development potential on the north side of the property; traffic
impacts; a lack of concern shown by Edwards residents during the hearing process; and potential for the
development to be approved in the future, and — like the West End project — fail to be completed. As well,
the Chairman questioned what would happen if development on the north side does not occur and the
Applicant could not meet the requirement for dual access?
Commissioner Franks
Stated general support for the project.
Commissioner Moffett
Had nothing further to add and made a motion to approve the file, citing the specific "exception" language
suggested by Staff. The motion passed unanimously.
Commission Brock
Was absent.
2. STAFF REPORT
A. NECESSARY FINDINGS:
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PROCESS INTENT
ECLUR Section: 5 - 240/5 - 280 Sketch Plan;
Section Purpose: The purpose of sketch plan review is for the applicant, the County and the public to
evaluate and discuss the basic concepts for development of the proposed PUD, and
to consider whether development of the property as a PUD will result in a
significant improvement over its development as a conventional subdivision. It is
the time when determination should be made as to whether the proposed PUD
complies with the purpose and intent of these Regulations and with the Eagle
County Comprehensive Plan and is generally compatible with surrounding land
uses. It is also the opportunity to reach general agreement on such issues as the
appropriate range of units and commercial space for development; the types of use,
dimensional limitations and other variations that may be considered; the general
locations intended for development and the areas planned to remain undeveloped;
the general alignments for access; and whether water supply and sewage disposal
will be provided via on -site systems or through connection to public systems. The
outcome of sketch plan review should be an identification of issues and concerns
the applicant must address if the project is ultimately to receive approval for a
Preliminary Plan for PUD from the County.
Where the PUD proposes activities that constitute a subdivision, the applications
for Sketch Plan and Preliminary Plan for PUD shall also be required to meet the
requirements of Section 5 -280, Subdivision, regarding procedures for Sketch Plan
and Preliminary Plan for Subdivision, respectively.
Standards: Section 5- 240.F.3.e., Standards; Section 5- 280.B.3.e Standards and Section 5-
230.D Standards is used to evaluate a Sketch & Preliminary Plan for PUD (with
subdivision) application. All standards that would be met at a Preliminary Plan
level must addressed by the application materials. It must therefore be determined,
based on submitted evidence, whether applicable standards have been met at this
stage. If the information supplied is found to be sufficiently vague or if it is
doubtful that the proposal would be able to meet a specific Standard, a negative
finding must be made for that Standard.
STANDARD: Unified ownership or control. [Section 5 - 240.F.3.e (1)] — The title to all land that is part of
a PUD shall be owned or controlled by one (1) person. A person shall be considered to control all lands in
the PUD either through ownership or by written consent of all owners of the land that they will be subject
to the conditions and standards of the PUD.
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
The subject property included within the PUD boundaries is owned by BWAB REEF Gravel Pit LLC.
STANDARD: Uses. [Section 5 - 240.F.3.e (2)] — The uses that may be developed in the PUD shall be those
uses that are designated as uses that are allowed, allowed as a special use or allowed as a limited use in
Table 3 -300, "Residential, Agricultural and Resource Zone Districts Use Schedule", or Table 3 -320,
"Commercial and Industrial Zone Districts Use Schedule", for the zone district designation in effect for the
property at the time of the application for PUD. Variations of these use designations may only be
authorized pursuant to Section 5 -240 F.3.f., Variations Authorized.
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
22
08/24/2010 •
MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
X DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
Permitted m N Permitted n
Underlymg Nature of Variatio
Proposed Usk Zoning?
Yes Na L
Mixed -Use:
(Commercial,
Residential, Civic and X Variations for allowed uses.
Recreation)
This application proposes mixed uses including commercial and medical offices, community health center,
research facilities, senior care, out/in patient care, emergency care and medical/health/wellness facilities.
Such uses are not currently permitted as an allowed use by right or by special or limited review. Therefore,
such uses would be applied for pursuant to Section 5 -240 F.3.1, Variations Authorized during any
application for Preliminary Plan for PUD.
STANDARD: Dimensional Limitations. [Section 5- 240.F.3.e (3)] — The dimensional limitations that
shall apply to the PUD shall be those specified in Table 3 -340, "Schedule of Dimensional Limitations" for
the zone district designation in effect for the property at the time of the application for PUD. Variations of
these dimensional limitations may only be authorized pursuant to Section 5 -240 F.3.f, Variations
Authorized, provided variations shall leave adequate distance between buildings for necessary access and
fire protection, and ensure proper ventilation, light, air and snowmelt between buildings.
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
Yes Necessary for integration of mixed uses; _
Yes To allow for greater variety in the type, design, and layout of buildings;
To promote a more efficient land use pattern including an opportunity for public transportation
Yes and for safe, efficient, compact street and utility networks that lower development and
maintenance costs and conserve energy; _
Yes To increase open space; _
Yes The property is constrained - use of conventional standards limits quality design; _
Yes To increase compatibility with neighboring developments;
Yes Other- to minimize site disturbance
PUD Zoning
PUD zoning is being applied for in this instance to specifically allow for a greater mix of commercial,
service, residential and recreational uses associated with the development of the subject property. The
subject property, specifically the south side of the property, has been identified in the Edwards Area
Community Plan as being a preferred site for mixed use commercial and residential development, as well
as open space preservation.
PUD Intent
23
08/24/2010
The intent of this Sketch Plan for PUD proposal is to integrate uses, and to promote greater efficiencies in
land use patterns in relation to the provision of community oriented commercial and medical facility uses in
coordination with the provision of affordable housing.
Land Use Pattern
The plans locate substantial portions of high intensity uses such as service and retail commercial as well as
medical, health and wellness facilities within or around a central commercial `core' area along State
Highway 6. Such uses are located in close proximity to a proposed regional bus stop on Hwy. 6. Such uses
are located to facilitate pedestrian friendly land use and transportation patterns, promote the use of regional
mass transit and resource efficiency. As well, the commercial core portion of the plan on the south side of
the property supports appropriate development (density) within or in close proximity to existing community
centers. However, development proposed on the north side of the property, while presenting logical
extensions of existing circulation patterns, may ultimately fail to meet these same objectives.
Constrained Design
Without the use of PUD zoning the potential for development on the subject property would be constrained.
Specifically, the applicant's ability to develop the property in a manner that strives for more creative and
quality design features, and which furthers specific master plan goals related to mixed use commercial on
the subject property, economic diversification, housing, transit- oriented development patterns,
environmental preservation and open space projection - would be constrained.
See Condition(s): 14
STANDARD: Variations Authorized [Section 5- 240.F.3.f. - provides that in order for a variation to be
granted, it must be found that the granting of the variation is necessary for the purpose to be achieved, and
that the Sketch Plan for PUD achieves one or more of the following purposes:
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
r F W �a±7ICYs+►, - 1,
Yes Obtains (applicant's) desired design qualities *;
Yes Avoids environmental resources and natural resources * *;
Yes Provides incentives for water augmentation;
Yes Provides incentives for trails;
Yes Provides incentives for affordable housing;
Yes Provides incentives for public facilities.
Note:
* The uses proposed are not permitted under current Resource (R) zoning; therefore, the applicant will be
required to apply for "variations authorized" during any Preliminary Plan submittal. Such variations,
specifically to allow for certain mixed uses including commercial and medical offices, community
health center, research facilities, senior care, out/in patient care, emergency care and
medical/health/wellness facilities, would create desired design qualities by permitting "the integration
of mixed uses" and allowing for "greater variety in the type, design and layout of buildings. ", pursuant
to Section 5- 240.F.3.f.
** The Applicant has designed the project to avoid any development on, over or within existing wetlands
or floodplain areas on the subject property, with the exception of certain improvements associated with
bridge construction over the Eagle River as well as the construction of passive recreational trails.
Overall, the plans demonstrate the applicant's intent to avoid development within valued natural
resource lands and hazard areas on the site. The plans have been reviewed by the Colorado Division of
Wildlife (CDOW) and the Eagle River Watershed Council (ERWC) to review the plans and to
specifically discuss the plans. The applicant should be required to revise the plans prior to any
Preliminary Plan submittal to ensure that recommendations by both CDOW and ERWC are integrated
24
08/24/2010
into the design of the project as well as within governing documents such as the PUD Guide and
covenants. In addition, the potential negative impacts from increased access to the river corridor and
riparian areas by future residents and the public, and the reducing the overall potential for
environmental degradation resulting from the introduction of high intensity residential and commercial
uses should be the focus of future design development. The Applicant should be required to work with
County Staff towards integrating recommendations and design criteria found in both the Sustainable
Communities Index (SCI) and ECO Build.
Proposed Dimensionalfi ECLUR
v < }
Justification for Variation =
Requirement
Front Unknown 25'/50' None proposed at this time
Rear Unknown 12 or 'h ht of None proposed at this time
tallest buildin:
Side Unknown 12 or %z ht of None proposed at this time
tallest buildin: _
Stream 75' or 100 year 75' or 100 year None proposed at this time
floodplain floodplain
The Applicant has provided only limited details regarding the proposed dimensional limitations for the project at
this time. General information has been provided within the Draft PUD Guide relative to setbacks from the 100 -
year floodplain for all proposed development as well as proposed building heights within individual planning
parcels. However, the applicant has stated in the application that certain "variations" from development standards
will most likely be applied for with any Preliminary Plan submittal. Staff suggests that as this is a sketch plan
review, such details, while helpful to understanding the qualities of the proposed development, are not critical for
r types proper review of general locations intended for development as well as the appropriate range g and yp es of
residential units and commercial space. However, dimensional limitations are important to consider relative to the
amount of "variations" anticipated and whether such variations outweigh development as a conventional
subdivision. As well, variations such as reduced roadway widths, reduced parking dimensions, and reduced front,
side and rear yard setbacks are to be encouraged within the context of allowing innovation in design, reduced
development footprints /impact and reduced costs of infrastructure. Such details should be discussed during the
hearing process, specifically to allow the Planning Commission, Staff, emergency service providers and the general
public to better understand what the applicant's intentions are by way of design. Such details will be required as
part of any Preliminary Plan submittal.
See Condition(s): 13, 17, 18
STANDARD: Off - Street Parking and Loading. [Section 5- 240.F.3.e (4)] — Off - street parking and
loading provided in the PUD shall comply with the standards of Article 4, Division 1, Off - Street Parking
and Loading Standards. A reduction in these standards may be authorized where the applicant
demonstrates that:
(a) Shared Parking. Because of shared parking arrangements among uses within the PUD that do not
require peak parking for those uses to occur at the same time, the parking needs of residents,
guests and employees of the project will be met; or
(b) Actual Needs. The actual needs of the project's residents, guests and employees will be less than
those set by Article 4, Division 1, Off-Street Parking and Loading Standards. The applicant may
commit to provide specialized transportation services for these persons (such as vans, subsidized
bus passes, or similar services) as a means of complying with this standard.
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
25
08/24/2010
1 c �3i . 1 I 0 X1;2 X+ �a a a . bA a fy4 i
Proposed Uses O 4 :49 , > 0. _
W
O , , C 47 i
z z K z �
� z z �. Yes Y
Multi- Family: 2 /DU 2 /DU X' X X
1- Bedroom/ Studio
Multi- Family: 2.5 /DU 2.5 /DU X' X X
2 to 3 Bedroom
Multi- Family: 3 /DU 3 /DU X X X
4 or More Bedrooms
Retail, Service 1/250 s.f. 1/250 s.f. 1 2 3
Commercial and (NLFA)* (NLFA)* X X X
Office
Restaurant 1/ four seats 1/ four seats X X X
Recreation X X X
(1) Per the ECLURs, one (1) "van accessible parking space shall be provided for every five (5) accessible
parking spaces, or fraction thereof." The Applicant was not asked to provide the level of detail necessary
to determine the number of absolute number of handicap accessible spaces required for the development;
this level of detail will be provided at any subsequent Preliminary Plan submittal and the applicant will be
required to meet the minimum requirements for handicap /van accessible parking spaces per the ECLURs.
(2) Per the ECLURs, one (1) off - street loading berth shall be provided for commercial buildings with a gross
floor area "Up to 10,000 sq. ft. "; two (2) off - street loading berths shall be provided for commercial
buildings "Greater than 10,000 sq. ft." While the plans submitted do not depict dedicated off- street loading
areas, the applicant will be required to meet the minimum requirements for off - street loading for all
commercial uses designed to be served by tractor - trailer delivery vehicles, per the ECLURs.
(3) The proposed plans for commercial and residential units meet the required parking standards. The proposal
makes no specific provision for "shared parking ", although in order to meet the Sustainable Communities
goals of Eagle County, the plan could be revised to include shared parking for the higher intensity use areas
(commercial and live /work), thus reducing the overall footprint of the development. As plans are further I
developed, the applicant may want to include provisions for shared parking.
Note
* NLFA — Net Leasable Floor Areas include only those areas that are designed to be leased to a
' tenant and occupied for commercial or office purposes, exclusive of any area dedicated to foyers,
bathrooms, stairways, circulation corridors and mechanical areas and storage areas used solely by
tenants on the site.
STANDARD: Landscaping. [Section 5 - 240.F.3.e (5)] — Landscaping provided in the PUD shall comply
with the standards of Article 4, Division 2, Landscaping and Illumination Standards. Variations from these
standards may be authorized where the applicant demonstrates that the proposed landscaping provides
sufficient buffering of uses from each other (both within the PUD and between the PUD and surrounding
uses) to minimize noise, glare and other adverse impacts, creates attractive streetscapes and parking areas
and is consistent with the character of the area.
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
26
08/24/2010
W
Type of ; �� �
Develo•ment: g' 6�" ., fis
® Commercial :° 2 ti ,
® Rest, "ential F "w ,. �*• " � 00
Mixed Use z. 0 .0 a� ° Isss :
'a r r
x s.ECCLUR Require i ' � f { X X
i a
Satisfies ECLUit ECLUR Reguir en : < X X' X X X X8 X1°
Not °Satisfy' i ECLUR X9
w a ui ements
Is blot jplicable X X
(1) Generally, the proposed location of plantings is appropriate for the site and the uses proposed. As the plans
it
in
are further developed and prior to any submittal of Preliminary Plans, the applicant will be required to submit
detailed plans and specifications regarding the location, installation and irrigation details demonstrating
conformance with ECLUR standards.
(2) Plans generally depict the types and locations of proposed `living cover' — as re- vegetation materials and
methods as well as permanent landscape treatments. As the plans are further developed and prior to any
submittal of Preliminary Plans, the applicant will be required to submit detailed plans and specifications
regarding the location, installation and irrigation details demonstrating conformance with ECLUR standards.
(3) Plans submitted generally specify the use of native and/or compatible plant species. Specifically, trees or
shrubs proposed are either native, naturally occurring species in the region, or are ornamental species
proposed to blend with those species found in the immediate vicinity which have been planted or imported to
the area as successful plant species. As the plans are further developed and prior to any submittal of
Preliminary Plans, the applicant will be required to submit detailed plans and specifications regarding the
location, installation and irrigation details demonstrating conformance with ECLUR standards. Such plans
should strive to proposed, locations and maintenance requirements will reduce overall resource use and result
in an environmentally neutral landscape plan.
(4) The plans submitted conceptually depict proposed limits of disturbance for the site. Large portions of the site
on the south side of the Eagle River are currently disturbed from historic industrial uses. At certain, limited
areas trees are proposed to be removed to facilitate development of access roads. Removal of significant
existing vegetation is minimal based on conceptual level plans; therefore the plan meets this standard.
However, as plans are further developed, the applicant will be required to provide site specific tree removal
and preservation plans depicting which existing trees are proposed to be removed and which are to be
preserved. Plans showing proper tree protection specifications will be required.
(5) Plans submitted generally depict tree and shrub sizes to meet or exceed the minimum standards of the
ECLURs. As plans are further developed, site specific details and plan legends will be required specifically
calling out the location and size of individual trees and shrubs; in the case of large areas of similar plantings,
plans shall specify the range of sizes in a particular plant grouping. Also, the applicant will be encouraged to
add to the proposed list of plantings and to increase the variation of planting sizes to add variety in the mix of
native species (specifically evergreen species) and to produce variety in the tree canopy within the
development. As well, the applicant should consider the placement of evergreen and deciduous plantings
relative to screening, solar access and shading.
(6) See above comment No. 5
27
08/24/2010
(7) The plans submitted are conceptual in nature and are meant to provide general information as to the types,
sizes, amounts and locations of proposed plantings and other landscape treatments. As plans are further
developed, the applicant will be required to provide detailed landscaping plans and calculations
demonstrating conformance with Section 4- 230.B.11— Trees within a Paved Area, ECLURs
(8) The Conceptual Landscape Plan appears to meet the minimum standards for plantings within parking and
storage areas. As plans are further developed, the applicant will be required to provide detailed landscaping
plans and calculations demonstrating conformance with Section 4- 230.B. 12 — Parking and Storage
Prohibited.
(9) The Conceptual Landscape Plan appears to be in non - conformance in several areas of the plan. Specifically,
proposed deciduous tree plantings are shown within or close to "clear vision areas" at the corner of certain
intersections; in other instances, trees are shown close to curbs or edges of internal streets. As this is a
conceptual level of detail, staff encourages the applicant to maintain the overall number and general location
of proposed plantings, but to revise the plans as necessary to meet the requirements of Section 4- 230.B.13 —
Obstructions Prohibited, ECLURs
(10) The Conceptual Landscape Plan appears to be in non - conformance in several areas of the plan. Specifically,
the plans fail to include planting islands, with tree plantings, every fifteen parking spaces. As plans are
further developed, the applicant will be required to provide detailed landscaping plans and calculations
demonstrating conformance with Section 4 -230.0 — Landscaing Standards within Off-Street Parking Areas,
ECLURs.
STANDARD: Signs. [Section 5- 240.F.3.e (6)] — The sign standards applicable to the PUD shall be as
specified in Article 4, Division 3, Sign Regulations, unless, as provided in Section 4 -340 D., Signs Allowed
in a Planned Unit Development (PUD), the applicant submits a comprehensive sign plan for the PUD that
is determined to be suitable for the PUD and provides the minimum sign area necessary to direct users to
and within the PUD.
Comprehensive Sign Plan Provided? Yes X No
A detailed comprehensive sign plan, including signage for all internal building and way - finding signage
will be required as part of any Preliminary Plan submittal. The sign plan shall be included within the PUD
Control Document (PUD Guide) and shall include details of proposed locations, sizes (dimensioned),
materials, color schemes lighting and installation specifications to be permitted or prohibited within all
planning areas of the PUD.
STANDARD: Adequate Facilities. [Section 5- 240.F.3.e (7)] — The applicant shall demonstrate that the
development proposed in the (Sketch) Preliminary Plan for PUD will be provided adequate facilities for
potable water supply, sewage disposal, solid waste disposal, electrical supply, fire protection and roads
and will be conveniently located in relation to schools, police and fire protection, and emergency medical
services.
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
3 3
ll hii w� w
Exceeds ECLUR Requirements
28
08/24/2010
Satisfies ECLU t alt ' a eats `, k`. X� X X X X X
Not App1i4 )eIN4o ECOR
Requirements"
Does Not Satisfy. ECLUR
Requirements
Deviation/VIS Requw, No
In proximity to schools, police & fire protection, & emergency medical services X Yes No
(1) Potable water for the project is proposed to be provided by the Eagle River Water Authority (see
attached "Conditional Service Capacity Commitment" letter from the Authority dated November 25,
2009). Specifically, the Authority states that any future commitment to serve the project will be
conditional on the provision of a comprehensive water requirements analysis, and associated water
rights evaluation. In addition, the applicant will be required to provide infrastructure plans and
referenced water requirements to the Authority prior to any Preliminary Plan submittal. The
Authority's letter states "evaluation for a Project this size will include an assessment of its impact
upon the entire water system."
(2) Sewage disposal for the project is proposed to be provided by the Upper Eagle River Water and
Sanitation District (see attached "Conditional Service Capacity Commitment" letter from the District
dated November 25, 2009).
(3) The applicant has not provided evidence of solid waste disposal (service) for the project. Proof of
adequate facilities for solid waste disposal will be required prior to or concurrent with any
Preliminary Plan submittal.
(4) Road networks proposed within the PUD are generally acceptable and provide adequate c irculation
within and through the development (new through road, and intersection serving the area).
(5) See above comments regarding access and roadway standards.
See Condition(s):12, 13
STANDARD: Improvements. [Section 5- 240.F.3.e (8)] — The improvement standards applicable to the
P L O� P
development shall be as specified in Article 4, Division 6, Improvement Standards. Provided, however, the
development may deviate from the County's road standards, so the development achieves greater efficiency
of infrastructure design and installation through clustered or compact forms of development or achieves
greater sensitivity to environmental impacts, when the following minimum design principles are followed:
(a) Safe, Efficient Access. The circulation system is designed to provide safe, convenient access to all
areas of the proposed development using the minimum practical roadway length. Access shall be
by a public right -of -way, private vehicular or pedestrian way or a commonly owned easement. No
roadway alignment, either horizontal or vertical, shall be allowed that compromises one (1) or
more of the minimum design standards of the American Association of State Highway Officials
(AASHTO) for that functional classification of roadway.
(b) Internal Pathways. Internal pathways shall be provided to form a logical, safe and convenient
system for pedestrian access to dwelling units and common areas, with appropriate linkages off -
site.
(c) Emergency Vehicles. Roadways shall be designed to permit access by emergency vehicles to all
lots or units. An access easement shall be granted for emergency vehicles and utility vehicles, as
applicable, to use private roadways in the development for the purpose of providing emergency
services and for installation, maintenance and repair of utilities.
(d) Principal Access Points. Principal vehicular access points shall be designed to provide jor smooth
traffic flow, minimizing hazards to vehicular, pedestrian or bicycle traffic. Where a PUD abuts a
major collector, arterial road or highway, direct access to such road or highway from individual
lots, units or buildings shall not be permitted. Minor roads within the PUD shall not be directly
29
08/24/2010
connected with roads outside of the PUD, unless the County determines such connections are
necessary to maintain the County's road network
(e) Snow Storage Adequate areas shall be provided to store snow removed from the internal street
network and from off - street parking areas.
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
Safe, Efficient Internal Emergency Principal
Access Path* Vehicles Aceesa lots-
Exceeds ECLUR Requirements
Satisfies ECLUR Requirements X X X' X X
Does Not Satisfy ECLUR
Requirement
Not ApplicableiNo ECLUR
Requirement
Deviation/VIS Requested
(1) The applicant has indicated that any Preliminary Plans submitted may include requests
for "variations" to improvement standards. The applicant should be required to work with
emergency service providers such as the Eagle River Fire Protection District to ensure
plans comply with applicable codes related to access, setbacks and road widths.
See Condition(s):3, 5, 12, 17, 18, 24
STANDARD: Compatibility with Surrounding Land Uses. [Section 5- 240.F.3.e (9)] — The development
proposed for the PUD shall be compatible with the character of surrounding land uses.
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
Poteatial
Surrounding Land Uses / Zoning Conpatxbtlty Isti
Yes " N
North: I -70 RO.W. `R' PUDillera Valley Club `PUD' X'
South: Single - Family Residential `R' State Highway 6 R.O.W. `R' X
"The Eagle River
East: Preserve " / Edwards `R' /'PUD Eaton Ranch Parcel B 'RL' X
Nursery PUD
West: Residential and Open Space `PUD' X
(1) The proposed PUD development plan calls for the creation of residential dwelling units in the
northern portions of the subject property and in close proximity with Interstate -70. Staff does not
feel that the proximity of proposed residential units to I -70 (and the potential for noise impacts) will
be any more detrimental to the quality of life of the future residents than that of the current residents
of Lake Creek Apartments or Brett Ranch Villas, Staff does suggest that the applicant should be
required to design and construct such units with sound abating construction materials and techniques.
30
08/24/2010
As well, upon any future final platting of Planning Parcel `N', and/or upon construction and sale of
such units, Staff suggests plats, covenants and contracts for individual units include disclosures
regarding the proximity to the interstate and the potential for adverse impacts from noise.
(2) The wholesale nursery located to the east of the PUD may produce noise and/or other potential
nuisances to residential uses located within planning parcels `A', `B' and `G' of the PUD.
STANDARD: Consistency with Comprehensive Plan. [Section 5- 240.F.3.e (10)] — The PUD , be
consistent with the Master Plan, including, but not limited to, the Future Land Use Map (FLL). The
consideration of the relevant master plans during sketch plan review is on a broad conceptual level, i.e,
how a proposal compares to basic planning principles. As a development proposal moves from sketch plan
to preliminary plan review, its conformance or lack thereof to aspects of the master plans may not
necessarily remain static.
See Condition(s): 17, 18, 19, 23
EAGLE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
t ub .
- 14 4 - FIN
i6 44 � , F - v � �` . ' I�e31gti8tlCltl . .� p l Mkt � '1;"
tr y ,' �✓ A4 j
a - ,
A4To6iiamentiati6ns _
tcorporates Majority of X X x X Xs X6 X' X X"
eco
Does 4; not Satisfy
Mayor* of j
Recommendations
Not Applicable . -
Below are the Recommended Strategies to accomplish each of the stated Comprehensive Plan Policies:
(1) Development
• "Ensure that all plans for development recognize the need to preserve the natural beauty and
environmental integrity of Eagle County"
The proposed mixed -use development has been specifically designed to preclude development in
unsuitable areas of the site such as wetlands and floodplain areas. In this sense, the propert y is naturally
constrained, literally. However, within those areas of the site that are developable, the applicant has
presented a land plan that generally introduces compact development patterns and clustering to create
walkable pockets of development. The most intense building is concentrated on the south side of the
property on lands previously disturbed by industrial activity, while the highest amount of residential density
is clustered on the north side of the property. In addition, the proposed development plan calls for
preservation and/or creation open space totaling approximately 65% of the overall 105 acre site. Such open
space is proposed to include passive and active (recreational) uses including conservation oriented
preservation of existing wetlands and floodplain areas existing in the meadows, as well as small
"neighborhood" parks, a dog park, trail improvements and limited fishing access to the Eagle River.
31
08/24/2010
However, as the plans are further developed, opportunities to increase the project's conformance with the
County's Sustainable Communities Index (SCI) should be pursued by the applicant. Strategies to improve
or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy include:
• Further minimizing paved areas by seeking design variations from Eagle County Land Use Regulation
design standards for road widths, parking and loading standards and committing to use pervious
pavement materials where possible.
• Integrating Distributed Stormwater Management strategies into the layout and design of the PUD as
well as individual buildings to improve overall performance of drainage and stormwater discharge
systems while committing to a higher level of environmental projection of sensitive riparian and
wetland areas found on the site.
• Concentrating the more residential uses at or near the Highway 6 corridor and within walking distance
(1/4 mile) to regional transit and the existing community core.
• Incorporating additional lands for community or neighborhood scale (local) food and energy
production (solar arrays).
• Introducing revised building orientations where possible to take advantage of solar access, thereby
potentially increasing the energy efficiency of individual buildings and units while reducing the annual
energy consumption of residents and commercial tenants.
• "Work to identify and preserve quality of life characteristics like outstanding recreational facilities, open
space, clean air and water, uncrowded roads, quiet neighborhoods, unique cultural events and quality
services".
The proposed development concept is generally consistent with goals associated with preserving the
existing quality of life characteristics of the surrounding vicinity. Specifically, the plans strive to cluster
development and to preserve and make available to the public significant amounts of open space along the
Eagle River Corridor for use as an extension of the Eagle River Preserve, including regional and local trail
systems for passive use.
Although the proposed development is projected to impact local roads by introducing approximately 6,990
additional vehicle trips per day to the area, the applicant has worked proactively with the Edwards
Authority to facilitate discussions regarding creation of a local or regional transportation and transit
"authority" for the express purpose of creating sustainable funding mechanisms for future transportation
and transit improvements including the creation of a local transit "feeder" system. Such improvements
(local and regional mass transit) and associated funding mechanisms will be critically important to the
development of this site as well as the future build -out of the Edwards area in order to create a more transit
oriented community in the future.
Overall, the design of the project has the potential to create a compact, transit oriented development in the
Edwards area and to enhance the connectivity of the development and surrounding neighborhoods (Villas
at Brett Ranch and Lake Creek Apartments) with the core area of Edwards. As the plans are further
developed, opportunities to increase the project's conformance with the County's Sustainable Communities
Index (SCI) should be pursued by the applicant. Specifically, the plans should be revised to include energy
efficient design and construction techniques to reduce the development's environmental footprint and to
reduce overall energy and maintenance costs to future residents and commercial operators.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Revising the land plan to include more areas of active recreation. Specifically, residents within the
development, especially on within the North Residential (Planning Parcel N) development may
benefit from the integration of additional, larger areas of open -air, active parkland for
improvements such as ball courts, play structures and the like. As well, additional areas for "dog
parks ", placed closer to planned residential clusters may benefit the residents and the environment
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by providing more space for "active" recreation with pets away from the Eagle River corridor and
sensitive riparian areas.
• Revising the land plan to concentrate more, if not all, development on the south side of the
property, thereby focusing more intensity nearer to the core of Edwards and in within walking
distance (1/4 mile) of the planned regional bus stop.
• Designating the proposed fishing cabin structure for use as a regional trail information center
and/or cultural center to educate local residents and visitors about area history, wildlife and culture.
• Integrating uses and specific building /commercial space design to facilitate early childhood
education and daycare facilities for local residents and local workforce;
• Integrating uses and specific building /commercial space design to facilitate senior's services
industry and retail opportunities.
• Integrate an on -site solar "farm" or array to ensure a minimum percentage of energy needs are met
on -site.
• Integrate an on -site recycling program for the PUD.
• Work with the Eagle River Watershed Council and area educational institutions to create outdoor,
environmental research and monitoring programs and curriculum ( "living" classrooms).
• "Incorporate population and job growth data compiled by the State Demographer into development
decisions and long range planning objectives':
The applicant has included a report by Jill Hunsaker, Principal of Silver Street Consulting, LLC. outlining
qualitative and quantitative reasoning and data to support the development of medical campus, health and
wellness industries on the subject property. The report highlights the burgeoning "destination" medical
wellness industry and the assertion that Eagle County may well be "medically underserved." However, as
plans are further developed, detailed needs analyses and market studies will be required to justify the
overall amount of medical and commercial as well as residential uses proposed.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Revising the land plan prior to any Preliminary Plan submittal to reflect the most recently
completed demographic information available from the State, and/or Eagle County to enhance the
project's ability to positively influence local jobs to housing ratios and to ensure targets for
affordability and living wage job creation are matched with introduction of additional commercial,
office and residential land uses.
• Incorporating needs and market analyses with the latest ridership studies available from ECO
Transit with the formation of local transit feeder systems and associated funding sources to ensure
that the land plan responds to and, at the same time, facilitates the creation of a transit- oriented
community.
• "Promote compact, mixed - use development within or adjacent to existing community centers':
The proposed project is specifically designed as a mixed -use development and is adjacent to or included
within exiting community center designations containing higher residential densities, commercial (mixed
use), recreational opportunities and existing and or planned civic facilities. The southern portion of the
property is specifically identified within the Edwards Area Community Plan as being appropriate for mixed
use, commercial and residential uses. However, the northern portion of the property is currently identified
with the same plan as being appropriate for additional, "highly desired" open space recreational uses.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Revising the land plan to concentrate more, if not all development, specifically residential uses, on
the south side of the property, thereby focusing more intensity nearer to the core of Edwards and in
within walking distance (1/4 mile) of the planned regional bus stop.
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• Further minimizing paved areas by seeking design variations from Eagle County Land Use
Regulation design standards for road widths, parking and loading standards and committing to use
pervious pavement materials where possible.
• "Ensure that all plans for development recognize the need to improve social equity".
In that the applicant proposes to meet the minimum requirements of the Eagle County Housing Guidelines
by creating approximately one hundred and sixty (160) "affordable" dwelling units of varying sizes, types
and price points within the development, the majority (114) located within walking distance to regional
transit, social equity may be improved. As well, the project has the potential to provide additional public
access to significant amounts of "highly desired" open space recreational opportunities in close proximity
to existing park lands.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Revise the land plan where needed and continue to work with the Eagle County Housing and
Development Department in pursuit of a public /private partnership to increase the total number and
type of deed restricted and local resident occupied dwelling units within the project and specifically
within walking distance to regional transit;
• Include provisions for "affordable commercial" space. Similar to proposed affordable and resident
occupied housing, the applicant may gain credits for meeting the Eagle County Affordable and
Resident Housing requirements by introducing affordable, deed restricted and/or resident occupied
commercial and/or live /work space within the development to attract local buyers and
entrepreneurs.
• Revising the land plan to reflect the most recently completed demographic information available
from the State, and/or Eagle County, and prepare detailed needs analyses and marketing studies to
enhance the project's ability to positively influence local "Jobs to Housing" ratios; and to ensure
targets for affordability and living wage job creation are matched with introduction of additional
commercial, office and live /work land uses.
• Specifically integrate uses and specific building/commercial space design to facilitate early
childhood education and daycare facilities for local residents and local workforce;
• Consider integrating uses and specific building/commercial space design to facilitate senior's
services industry and retail opportunities.
• "Ensure that all plans for development recognize the need to maintain a healthy economy:
The applicant has provided riffs nil i
e app cant as p o ded a brief financial a overview (chart) of the ro'ected fiscal impacts of the
p J p
development. This chart generally describes how the proposed metropolitan district within the PUD will
provide for administrative and operational revenues through the application of additional property tax
assessments (mills). However, little (detailed) analysis has been provided showing the need for the
proposed amounts, types and sizes of residential and commercial (medical and medical support
commercial) uses, nor the potential economic or fiscal impact of the development on the local and regional
economy, the impacts on county services or the impact on jobs to housing ratios.
Such analyses will be critical to understanding the potential impacts of the project on the local economy as
well as understanding the overall need for the proposed uses. Logically, such need analyses and marketing
studies produced will inform the design development of the project and will specifically clarify how the
applicant proposes to phase the project to meet future market demands.
Overall, the information provided by Jill Hunsaker, Silver Street Consulting, LLC. provides a basis to begin
discussions of medical uses and commercial support uses on the subject property. Such information, when
combined with information provided from the Economic Council of Eagle County relative to destination
medical industries and how such industry might further diversify the local and regional economy, is
•
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helpful. Indeed, Eagle County and the Edwards area in particular, appear to be uniquely situated to
facilitate destination and regional medical uses as the next "growth" industry within the County.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Complete detailed commercial and residential needs analyses and market studies, tied to the most
current demographic and regional jobs to housing data, prior to or concurrent with any Preliminary
Plan submittal. Such details will be critical to any further review of the proposed medical campus,
health and wellness and support commercial concepts being proposed for the subject property;
• Revising the land plan to include provisions for "affordable commercial" space. Similar to
proposed affordable and resident occupied housing, the applicant may gain credits for meeting the
Eagle County Affordable Housing and Resident Housing requirements by introducing commercial
and/or live -work space within the development that is deed restricted to attract local buyers and
entrepreneurs.
• Work with County Staff to use the `Site Stats' economic and fiscal impact modeling tool to inform
the future design development of the project to ensure the types and amount of uses are appropriate
for the local economy and to accurately forecast potential (negative) impacts on County services.
In addition, the applicant will be required to provide detailed fiscal and economic analyses showing
projected impacts on County services, local taxing jurisdictions and the proposed metropolitan
district within the PUD.
• "Intersperse parks and properly scaled public spaces within and throughout areas of higher- density
development'
The project is generally designed to incorporate parks and properly scaled public spaces within and
throughout areas of higher- density development, such as residential cluster neighborhoods and commercial
areas. It appears the central "core" of the commercial/mixed use area of the project is designed to emulate
a village concept, with courtyards and appropriately scaled public spaces relating to building masses.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Revising the land plan to provide "neighborhood" or community -scale gardens and areas for local
food production;
• Revising the land plan to include more areas of `active' recreation. Specifically, residents within
the development, especially on within the North Residential (Planning Parcel N) development may
benefit from additional, larger areas of open -air, active parkland for improvements such as ball
courts, play structures and the like. As well, additional areas for "dog parks ", placed closer to
planned residential clusters may benefit the residents and the environment by providing more space
for "active" recreation with pets while maintaining such uses away from the Eagle River corridor
and sensitive riparian areas.
• "Consistently apply and enforce Eagle County Land Use Regulation development standards':
This is the purpose of this PUD Sketch Plan evaluation process.
• "Analyze development applications for conformance to the County's Future Land Use Map"
The Eagle County Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map defers to the Edwards Area Community Plan
regarding recommended "future land uses" in the Edwards area and, specifically, for the subject property.
The property is described in the Plan as "Site 2 ". The Plan states:
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08/24/2010
"This site may provide the best opportunity for additional and highly desired recreational
space. This section could become the centerpiece to a broader recreational linear park along the river.
• Potential Uses: Residential Medium Density or Mixed Use type developments may be
appropriate for the area south of the trail and out of the floodplain. The appropriate
commercial uses might include retail, service, office.
• Character: The character of the area should reflect that of the broader Edwards
community and reinforce the pedestrian environment, particularly along Highway 6. A
continuation of the "Main Street" feel to Highway 6 should be reinforced by the
development.
• Pedestrian Connections: The proposed trail through the site should follow the bench that
marks the end of the floodplain. This trail would split the activity of the medium
density /mixed use area with the more passive area surrounding the Eagle River and new
lake.
• Access: Access should be shared with site #1 to limit the number of access points off
Highway 6. As suggested in the Access Control Plan, this could best be accommodated at
the intersection of the Edwards Building Center, but may also be feasible at the
intersection of Lake Creek Road.
• Parking: Parking should be buffered from Highway 6 and/or underground.
• Other: New development will avoid the floodplain."
The above narrative highlights several salient considerations regarding this site, not the least of which is
the preference by the community while drafting the Edwards Area Community Plan to direct development
to the southern portion of the site and to preserve the existing river corridor and associated open lands to
the south and north of the river for regional recreational uses (as an extension to the Eagle River Preserve).
As well, the property is uniquely situated to provide a "bookend" to any commercial, "main street - like"
development along Hwy. 6. Mixed use as well as "Medium Density" residential uses are desired as are
tying the development to the rest of Edwards through design and context. Parking should be somehow
buffered from views along Hwy. 6.
However, the applicant has correctly stated within the application that, due to the creation of the Eagle
River Preserve in 2005, residential density and commercial uses that may have been envisioned further to
the east and within the existing "core" of Edwards are being pushed further west. As well, the previously
established goals of creating a "main street" along the Hwy. 6 corridor in this portion of Edwards may no
longer be feasible or appropriate, as originally envisioned, given the boundaries of the conservation
easement that now encumbers the Eagle River Preserve lands along Hwy. 6.
The Edwards Area Community Plan, under Plan Amendment & Exception Process, outlines situations
where the applicant may propose, and the Planning Commission may consider amendments to the Plan,
including the Future Land Use Map. The Plan states:
"Flexibility in plan policies should be provided for unique or extraordinary proposals or parcels,
and to accommodate changing conditions. Exceptions or modifications to the plan policies may
occur at two levels: case -by -case exceptions and broad plan changes."
Further, the Plan states under "Exceptions ":
"The Planning Commission may approve exceptions to the plan policies if they find that the
original objectives of the Plan are met and the proposal is a unique situation, one not anticipated
when the plan was adopted such as a new church or school. Important elements in considering the
appropriateness of a plan exception are:
a) Applicant can demonstrate an attempt at informing the homeowners and
community of the proposal, and resolution of any conflicts; and
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b) There should be no significant opposition from surrounding homeowners
associations or property owners raising germane issues (those that are addressed
in the Area Community Plan's objectives and policy statements)."
Obviously, the presentation of the Eagle River Meadows application to the Planning Commission at this
time, with residential uses planned for the northern half of the property (rather than open space as identified
" there are
represents requested "case exception to the Plan. Staff believes the e a
on the FLUM) a esents a y p
P q
grounds for the Planning Commission to consider the exception, as general conditions in the immediate
area did change upon creation of the Eagle River Preserve. Such situation was not anticipated upon
adoption of the plan in 2005. However, the applicant still has the burden of addressing both criteria (`A'
and `B') above, specifically proving that there has been a documented attempt at "informing" the
community of the proposal, and that there is no "significant ", germane opposition to the plan from
surrounding associations or property owners.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance with the Future Land Use Map and associated
comprehensive plan goals and policies include:
• Revising the land plan to concentrate more, if not all development, specifically residential uses, on
the south side of the property, thereby focusing more intensity nearer to the core of Edwards and in
within walking distance (1/4 mile) of the planned regional bus stop and allowing for the
preservation of the northern portions of the site for use as "additional and highly desired
recreational space."
• Working with Eagle County and the Eagle Valley Land Trust to explore opportunities to
permanently protect those portions of the site to the north of the Eagle River as open space.
Specifically, preservation of such areas could achieve the original Plan goal of creating the
"centerpiece to a broader recreational linear park along the river."
• Pursuing an exception to the Edwards Area Community Plan and Future Land Use Map.
• "Continue to allow variations from underlying zoning standards to be obtained through a Planned Unit
Development but require clustering within the PUD to the benefit of the surrounding community' .
The proposal concentrates (clusters) development within limited portions of the site. Approximately 65%
of the site is preserved as open space. The application states that no variations to improvement standards
(dimensional limitations and site development standards such as road widths, parking space dimensions,
etc) are currently being applied for, but that such variations will most likely be part of any Preliminary Plan
submittal.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Revising the land plan to concentrate more, if not all development, specifically residential uses, on
the south side of the property, thereby focusing more intensity nearer to the core of Edwards and in
within walking distance (1/4 mile) of the planned regional bus stop;
• Revising the land plan for the North Residential (Planning Parcel N) area to be more compact and
reduce the overall footprint of buildings and paved areas — "pull -in" limits of disturbance.
• "Require new commercial development to provide workforce housing or to provide land for rorkforce
housing ".
The project is integrates the majority of planned "affordable" housing opportunities within the southern,
mixed use portion of the site. Overall, the applicant has demonstrated a commitment, if at a conceptual
level, to comply with the requirements of the County's Housing Guidelines.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
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• Revising the land plan to increase opportunities to incorporate more deed restricted and/or resident
occupied housing on the south side of the property and continue to work with the Eagle County
Housing and Development Department to explore potential public - private partnerships to increase
the affordable housing stock.
• "Design and locate development to minimize and / or mitigate identified impacts':
The project has been designed as a compact, clustered development located in close proximity to planned
regional mass transit hubs; it has been designed as an energy efficient, pedestrian friendly project serving
local populations through the creation of significant amounts of deed restricted and/or resident occupied
housing options to specifically minimize and otherwise mitigate impacts from development.
(2) Economic Resources
• "Ensure that commercial / retail development occurs in locations that are compatible with surrounding
uses".
The project is designed, in part, as a transit oriented, mixed use development supplying "community
scaled" medical, commercial and office uses for the local community and to compliment existing retail and
service commercial uses in the surrounding area.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Perform detailed needs and market analyses to enhance the project's ability to positively influence
local "Jobs to Housing" ratios; and to ensure targets for affordability and living wage job creation
are matched with introduction of additional commercial, office and live /work land uses;
• "Consider the impact of each second home development on the jobs to housing balance.
The proposal is not intended to be a second home development.
• "Develop the services and businesses that will benefit a growing senior population':
The project has specifically designed to focus on the provision of medical facilities, health and wellness
facilities and related support and service commercial uses. As well, the application makes specific
provisions for senior housing and assisted living development as a primary (allowed) land use within the
PUD Guide.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Revising the land plan to ensure appropriate, adequate (ADA compliant) and efficient access at the
ground or pedestrian level of commercial buildings for such "services and businesses" benefiting a
growing senior population.
• Work with "senior" or elder -care service providers in the Eagle River Valley, as well as with Eagle
County Health and Human Services Department staff to identify those "services and business"
needed in the region. And, to the extent practical within the over all land plan and commercial real
estate pro - forma, designate or reserve certain commercial spaces and locations to accommodate
businesses aimed at serving senior populations.
• "Encourage retirement housing as part of mixed -use developments in existing towns and
unincorporated communities".
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The plans do not specifically anticipate creation of "retirement" housing; however, the nature of this
pedestrian friendly, transit oriented design may be complimentary to this particular master plan goal.
Proposed affordable and deed restricted housing will be available to those segments of the population
approaching or at retirement age.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Work with the Eagle County Housing and Development Department, as well as with the Eagle
County Health and Human Services Department to further identify rental and `for -sale' housing
price points (thresholds) that may be attractive and/or attainable for a growing segment of Eagle
County's population living on fixed incomes.
• Identify those housing and/or amenity features designed specifically for aging populations and
consider incorporating those features into overall project plans and individual building design.
• "Select sites for retirement housing that are suitable in regards to local support services, emergency
services and transportation".
See above comments. In addition, the proposed development is in close proximity to emergency services
providers.
• `Apply Workforce Housing Guidelines and require commercial developers to mitigate their project's
impact on the jobs to housing balance of the area".
The project's affordable housing plan has been reviewed by the Eagle County Housing and Development
Director for compliance with the Guidelines. The application appears to be able to meet the Count's
minimum requirements, however the applicant will be required to continue working with the Housing and
Development Department Director to ensure that minimum requirements are met and/or that other
mitigation techniques are employed that have substantial benefit to the larger community.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Work with the Eagle County Housing and Development Department towards the creation of a
housing mitigation plan that responds to the immediate and future (anticipated) needs of the area;
• Perform detailed needs and market analyses to enhance the project's ability to positively influence
local "Jobs to Housing" ratios; and to ensure targets for affordability and living wage job creation
are matched with introduction of additional commercial, office and live /work land uses.
• "Limit the expansion of commercial zoning in unincorporated Eagle County to that necessary to serve
the needs of the immediate local population".
The proposed mixed use PUD zoning will allow approximately 261,000 square feet of additional
commercial (medical and support commercial) uses in unincorporated Eagle County. The proposed
medical, health and wellness facilities and commercial uses are intended to serve the needs of the
immediate local population as well as those traveling to the site from outside the community and, perhaps,
from outside the State.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Perform detailed needs and market analyses to ensure the project serves the needs of the immediate
local population as a priority, while ensuring the project is viable in terms of a regional or national
destination wellness development;
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• Prepare a detailed Phasing Plan, based in part on detailed needs and market analyses, to allow
flexibility in the design, construction and marketing of commercial, office and residential real
estate offerings while providing a reasonable level of predictability of in commercial and
residential real estate offerings, timed to respond appropriately to the local population, as a priority.
• "Allow the development of new service commercial and industrial uses in suitable locations provided
such uses are properly buffered from surrounding properties':
Service and "Convenience" commercial uses, as well as office uses have been primarily concentrated
around a planned regional mass transit stop and directly adjacent to the Hwy. 6 right -of -way. The majority
of planned multi- family residential uses have been concentrated along the northern boundaries of the
property, in proximity to a planned connector road and in general proximity to existing multi - family
residential uses (Villas at Brett Ranch and Lake Creek Apartments) located along Hillcrest Drive.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Revising the land plan and site specific development plans to ensure particular wholesale and retail
nursery uses and business operations located on the adjacent Edwards Nursery PUD ( "Wildflower
Farm ") are buffered to the highest extent practical. Architecture and building materials
(construction techniques) that specifically provide sound attenuating properties should be
considered.
• "Encourage but limit commercial development in residential neighborhoods to local businesses that
serve the basic needs of nearby residents".
The project has been specifically designed to provide commercial buildings of certain, limited (gross)
square footage to be attractive to local businesses and entrepreneurs. Commercial, office and light
industrial uses are integrated within the residential fabric of the development to create a mixed use,
pedestrian friendly environment. Live /work and other `for -sale' commercial real estate is to be offered to
local businesses. No medium or large format "box" stores are proposed and the commercial core of the
project is geared towards providing convenience and service commercial uses to serve the needs of local
residents and commuters.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Work with "senior" or elder -care service providers in the Edwards area, as well as with Eagle
County Health and Human Services Department staff to identify those "services and business"
needed in the region. And, to the extent practical within the over all land plan and commercial real
estate pro - forma, designate or reserve certain commercial spaces and locations to accommodate
businesses aimed at serving senior populations.
• Perform a detailed market analysis prior to or concurrent with any Preliminary Plan submittal.
• "Encourage live -work arrangements within community centers by promoting compact mixed -use
development, pedestrian scaled retail areas and intercommunity public transportation"
The project does not include any provision for live -work arrangements or uses; however such uses may be
appropriate and viable on the site.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Revising the land plan to specifically include development parcels for live -work arrangements;
40
08/24/2010
• Revising the land plan to include provisions for "affordable commercial" space. Similar to
proposed affordable and resident occupied housing, the applicant may gain credits for meeting the
Eagle County Affordable Housing and Resident Housing requirements by introducing commercial
and/or live -work space within the development that is deed restricted to attract local buyers and
entrepreneurs.
(3) Housing
• "Affordable workforce housing should be located near job centers"
Although the subject property is generally not located within easy or convenient walking distance to the
main commercial areas of Edwards, the project is within close proximity to existing job centers located in
the core of Edwards (CMC, Riverwalk, Edwards Commercial Center, etc.). As well, the mixed use
component of the project (a new potential job center) will be developed in close proximity to regional mass
transit routes. The proposal will be required to provide deed restricted affordable and workforce (resident
occupied) housing thus achieving the goal of providing "affordable workforce housing" near job centers.
And, as a matter of course for satisfying the Eagle County Housing Guidelines, affordable workforce
housing will result and the applicant has submitted a revised housing plan as a result of feedback from the
Eagle County Housing and Development Department.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Revising the land plan to increase opportunities to incorporate more deed restricted and/or resident
occupied housing and continue to work with the Eagle County Housing and Development
Department to explore potential public - private partnerships to increase the affordable housing
stock;
• Revising the land plan to concentrate more, if not all development, specifically residential uses, on
the south side of the property, thereby focusing more intensity nearer to the core of Edwards and in
within walking distance (1/4 mile) of the planned regional bus stop.
• "Provide incentives to developers who develop workforce housing"
The property is currently zoned Resource (R), allowing for one dwelling unit per 35 acres (plus one
accessory dwelling unit per 35 acre parcel) as a use "by right ". Therefore, the proposal represents a
substantial up zoning of the subject property based on the proposal to construct a total of 380 residential
dwelling units (501,435 sq. ft.), 42% of which are proposed to be "affordable."
If this Planned Unit Development (as proposed) is ultimately approved, the incentive to the developer will
be the ability to develop 160 deed restricted units averaging 100% AMI (per the County Housing
Guidelines), and; 220 market rate and/or "resident occupied" units priced at or above 140% .AMI. In
addition, 261,000 (Net) sq. ft. of commercial development is proposed.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Revise the Housing Plan to specifically provide affordable, deed restricted housing at a target
(average) AMI of 100%
• Revising the land plan to increase opportunities to incorporate more deed restricted and/or resident
occupied housing and continue to work with the Eagle County Housing and Development
Department to explore potential public - private partnerships to increase the affordable housing
stock.
• Revising the proposed Phasing Plan to allow flexibility in the design, construction and :marketing
of commercial, office and residential real estate offerings — timed to respond appropriately to
potentially unpredictable market conditions in the future.
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• Revise the land plan and environmental design of the site and buildings to achieve a higher
percentage of on -site, alternative energy production and to increase the efficiency of individual
buildings and units to reduce the cost of operation over time. Work with the Eagle County
Housing and Development Department to quantify actual savings to residents of the development
through energy efficiency and on -site energy production measures. Per the Housing and
Development Department Director, the County is willing to work with the applicant to quantify
such real (actual) savings in order to allow the purchase price for some of the required deed
restricted units to be raised (higher return to the developer with long term savings passed back to
residents).
• "Continue to require a Local Resident Housing Plan for all new development applications as required by
the Local Resident Housing Guidelines"
The Local Resident Housing Guidelines have been applied. In addition, the Applicant has committed to
meeting the required housing mitigation, and to continue working with the Eagle County Housing and
Development Department.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• See above comments.
• "Mandate that attainable workforce housing be considered part of the required infrastructure for all
new development applications."
The project is designed, in part, to provide "attainable workforce housing ". The applicant will be required
to work with the Eagle County Housing and Development Department during any Preliminary Plan
application process and will be required to meet the minimum requirements of the Housing Guidelines.
• "Continue to utilize Inclusionary Housing and Employee Housing Linkage as defined in the Local
Resident Housing Guidelines in the review of development applications ".
• See above comments.
(4) Infrastructure and Services
• "Locate new development in areas served by adequate roads and paths, and within reasonable distance
to a mass transit hub':
The subject property is served by adequate public roads and has specifically been designed to provide
residential and commercial uses directly adjacent to a planned regional mass - transit stop. In addition, the
project incorporates a regional trail connection through the property.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Revising the land plan to concentrate more, if not all development, specifically residential uses, on
the south side of the property, thereby focusing more intensity nearer to the core of Edwards and in
within walking distance (1/4 mile) of the planned regional bus stop.
• "Assure that road and trail improvements are completed concurrent to the completion of new
development'
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If this PUD proposal is ultimately approved, at Final Plat a Subdivision Improvements Agreement and
collateral will be required to ensure that all necessary infrastructure improvements are installed correctly in
a timely manner.
• "Ensure appropriate transportation considerations are included in subdivision improvement
agreements".
This is the primary purpose of subdivision improvement agreements.
• "Work with mass transit providers to expand service".
The applicant has met several times with Eagle County Engineering Department and ECO Transit
representatives to specifically discuss potential impacts of the development on existing transportation and
transit systems. Both entities have identified several issues related to future improvements and capital
expenditures that will be required to support a development of this size and scope, and both entities have
expressed concern regarding the need to create a sustainable, reliable funding source that will be applied
toward future (ongoing) road and transit system improvements needed to support this and any other future
development in the Edwards area.
Specifically, ECO Transit has pointed out that in order to truly assess the potential impacts and needs
placed on the existing transit system, additional information will be required relative to proposed dwelling
unit price points as well the amount of senior and/or assisted living housing proposed. Such information
will be useful in determining total ridership anticipated on the regional bus system as well as the need for
additional "para- transit" services (for disabled persons). ECO Transit also states that there may be
potential demand for a park- and -ride facility on the site.
Of critical importance is the issue of creating a funding source or mechanism that will support the regional
transit needs generated by this development while providing additional funding for local feeder systems in
the Edwards area. Staff believes the applicant's ongoing discussions with the Edwards Authority towards
creation of such funding sources for future transportation improvements and transit provision will need to
result in the identification of actual, implementable solutions prior to any submittal of a Prelimi nary Plan
application.
• "Encourage transit oriented development"
The project is generally designed to meet this objective. Concentrating medical facilities, ancillary
(support) medical office and support retail uses in close proximity to a regional mass transit route will
create the core of the applicant's transit oriented vision. Likewise, concentrating additional residential
density on the south side of the property may aid in supporting the mechanics of a true transit oriented
development, adding critical mass within walking distance of the transit stop. As well, integration of a
park- and -ride facility (per discussions with ECO Transit) may warrant further discussion as a means to
provide additional public benefits to the larger community while adding to the vibranc y of the
development.
• "Promote pedestrian malls and provide adequate parking on the perimeter of shopping areas to
encourage walking"
The land plan incorporates commercial/mixed -use development patterns on the south side of the property.
Such uses form the `core' of the project and are oriented around a medical campus (Planning Parcel B) and
"village" area (Planning Parcel F). The village area will allow for "support retail" operations and
residential uses oriented around a pedestrian oriented "mall" area.
• "Encourage a network of walking trails within towns and community centers that connect typical
community destinations (bus stops, schools, businesses, parks, playgrounds, etc.) with seamless
pedestrian infrastructure"
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The development plan centers its open space and recreational amenities on the preservation of significant
open space lands and the provision of new pedestrian connections through the property. The plan
incorporates new regional trails through the subject property, connecting the site with existing, relatively
isolated neighborhoods (Brett Ranch Villas and Lake Creek Apartments) with the community center of
Edwards. The proposed trails add significantly to the provision of a "seamless pedestrian infrastructure" in
the Edwards area and are designed to compliment the existing trail system within the Eagle River Preserve.
• "Within towns and community centers, retrofit public roads with parallel pedestrian routes and marked
street crossings':
The development plans show the provision or new local and regional trail segments generally running east
to west in a parallel manner to Hwy. 6.
• "Design streetscapes to include pedestrian friendly amenities like window spaces, store fronts,
landscaping, plaza areas, marked cross walks and traffic speed controls':
Conceptual plans appear to meet this particular objective. As plans are further developed, the applicant
will be required to provide higher levels of details showing typical streetscape sections as well as details
demonstrating the relationship between building and store fronts and the pedestrian realm. Plans for
landscaping, plaza areas, cross walks and traffic calming designs will be required.
• "Promote the use of Planned Unit Developments to increase flexibility in planning and design"
This is a PUD Sketch Plan application. As such, the applicant has taken advantage of flexibility in the
layout, design and densities proposed.
• "Promote live - work arrangements where appropriate':
The project currently does not include any provision for the development of live -work residential and
commercial real estate offerings. This is one area of the plan that may warrant further consideration
upon completing detailed needs and market analyses.
• "Encourage an appropriate mix of retail and office locations in new neighborhoods to reduce reliance
on personal cars':
This mixed use project incorporates office, medical service and "support" retail commercial uses in
conjunction with planned medical and health wellness uses. However, no provision for "convenience" or
other service commercial has been made at this time.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Perform a detailed market analysis prior to or concurrent with any Preliminary Plan submittal to
determine the appropriate mix of uses.
• Integrate small scale neighborhood convenience and other service commercial uses within the
development to specifically serve the daily needs of residents and to reduce the use of personal
vehicle trips out of the development.
• "Evaluate all development proposals using Eagle County Land Use Regulation Road Standards ".
The proposal currently complies with the ECLUR roadway standards. Any future "variations to
improvement standards" will be required to be requested with any Preliminary Plan submittal and will
need to be integrated and reviewed in close coordination with all emergency service providers such as the
Eagle River Fire Protection District.
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• "Assure adequate access for emergency responders ".
No response was received from applicable emergency response agencies. See above comments.
• "Require demonstration that all new developments will be adequately served by emergency and
community services".
No response was received from applicable emergency response agencies.
• "Encourage new commercial development to provide childcare as an amenity ".
At this level of review, specific service commercial plans have not been developed. The applicant is aware
of this master plan goal and has included "day care" as an allowed use within the draft PUD Guide.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Integrating uses and specific building/commercial space design to facilitate early childhood
education and daycare facilities for local residents and local workforce;
• "Use House Bill 1041 powers to fully evaluate proposals for new water and sewer lines and proposals for
new or expanded water or sewer treatment plants':
Not applicable until Preliminary Plan submittal and review.
• "Require the installation of water and sewer service infrastructure concurrent to development':
This proposal entails installation of new public water and sewer infrastructure. Sewer main lines are
already installed on portions of the property. "Require detailed transportation analysis at the preliminary
approval".
The applicant has provided traffic analysis for the Sketch Plan review. Such analysis indicates that
approximately 6,990 additional vehicles per day will be added to local roads. A detailed analysis will be
required with any Preliminary Plan submittal.
• "Provide a diversity of housing choices and prices throughout the entire county ".
The proposal will provide a mix of free - market, deed restricted and resident occupied housing options of
varying sizes, types, locations and price points throughout the development.
(5) Water Resources
• "Require developers to demonstrate that a legal and physical water supply exists for their development".
Potable water for the project is proposed to be provided by the Eagle River Water Authority (see attached
"Conditional Service Capacity Commitment" letter from the Authority dated July 8, 2009). Specifically,
the Authority states that any future commitment to serve the project will be conditional on the provision of
a comprehensive water requirements analysis, and associated water rights evaluation. In addition, the
applicant will be required to provide infrastructure plans and referenced water requirements to the
Authority prior to any Preliminary Plan submittal. The Authority's letter states "evaluation for a Project
this size will include an assessment of its impact upon the entire water system."
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•
• "Use a standard of extended drought conditions to determine the viability of the physical water supply
proposed for a new development".
See above comments.
• "Utilize current water quantity information in all development applications and planning reviews':
See above comments.
• "Protect source water areas and reduce the potential for source water contamination"
During site construction, Best Management Practices (BMP's) will be required for storm water
management, erosion control and dust suppression. In addition, the applicant has committed to
investigating integration of "Distributed Stormwater Management Strategies into the design of the project,
as suggested by the Eagle River Watershed Council. Protection of wetland and riparian areas, during
construction and in perpetuity, should be a design priority for this site.
• "Use pervious surfaces instead of impermeable surfaces when possible"
The application does not preclude the use of pervious surfaces. Such materials and construction
techniques should be incorporated where practical within the project in addition to other efforts to reduce the
amount of storm water runoff from the site to highest extent possible.
• "Ensure that development does not adversely affect the recharge of groundwater resources'. ".
The development seeks to cluster as much density as possible; to limit overall (total) building footprints,
and; to preserve large portions of the site generally in their original state as floodplain meadows and
wetland areas. As well, as part of the "Corrective Action Plan" proposed by Terracon (for clean up of
previous industrial site soils contamination), monitoring wells will be installed on the property to ensure
groundwater resources are protected.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Revise the land plan to further cluster development and reduce the amount of paved areas
(roadways, individual driveways) to reduce the total amount of building footprint and/or
impervious surfaces — to increase or preserve groundwater recharge capabilities within the site.
Such revisions may require "variations" to improvement standards.
• Provide ground water monitoring stations within the PUD boundaries.
• Consider building designs that incorporate "green roofs" and water re- capture /treatment within roof
design and materials.
• "Encourage the use of water efficient landscape materials and landscape irrigation methods':
At the time of Preliminary Plan application, a detailed landscape and irrigation plan will be required.
• "Evaluate efficiencies of non potable water usage for golf courses and other landscaped areas".
At the time of Preliminary Plan application, a detailed landscape and irrigation plan will be required.
• "Implement water reuse and recycling systems':
The application does not address water reuse at this time.
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Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Integrate water reuse and recycling components into the building, landscape and irrigation plans.
i
• "Support the implementation of voluntary and mandatory water conservation measures".
At the time of Preliminary Plan application, a detailed landscape and irrigation plan will be required.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Incorporate specific limits and/or controls regarding the maximum areas per lot to be irrigated
within PUD Guide documents and/or within protective covenants.
• "Require the demonstration of the availability of real (wet) water supply at Sketch Plan stage of
development application"
The property brings no water rights. Potable water for the project is proposed to be provided by the Eagle
River Water Authority (see attached "Conditional Service Capacity Commitment" letter from the Authority
dated July 8, 2009). Specifically, the Authority states that any future commitment to serve the project will
be conditional on the provision of a comprehensive water requirements analysis, and associated water
rights evaluation. In addition, the applicant will be required to provide infrastructure plans and referenced
water requirements to the Authority prior to any Preliminary Plan submittal. The Authority's letter states
"evaluation for a Project this size will include an assessment of its impact upon the entire water system.
• "Participate in water quality monitoring efforts".
As part of the "Corrective Action Plan" proposed by Terracon (for clean up of previous industrial site soils
contamination), monitoring wells will be installed on the property to ensure groundwater resources are
protected. In addition, the applicant has discussed with Staff the possibility of working with local schools
(Gore Range Natural Science School) and entities such as the Eagle River Watershed Council to provide
strategic water quality and restoration monitoring partnerships, essentially creating a "living" classroom for
such entities using the restored riparian areas and existing wetland areas of the property.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Partner with local educational and not - for -profit organizations to provide ongoing water quality
and riparian restoration monitoring.
• "Follow the recommendations of the Northwest Colorado Council of Governments Regional 208 Water
Quality Management Plan"
The use of Best Management Practices for on -site storm water management will be required.
• "Follow the recommendations of the Eagle River Watershed Plan"
The Eagle River Watershed Council has reviewed the proposal and has made comments relative to the
overall goals of the Council, and the Watershed Plan. In addition, the application will be reviewed against
the recommendations of the Plan.
• "Promote the appropriate best mana management practices for the control o storm water runoff g P f f ff and work to
identify and treat other non point sources of pollution"
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Best Management Practices will be required with regard to storm water management and grading activities.
See above comments related to integration of Distributed Stormwater Management Strategies.
• "Require an effective water quality management plan be implemented with new development':
The application did provide concept level details regarding drainage and detention of water on -site. A
detailed water quality management plan will be required with any Preliminary Plan application.
• "Adhere to established Land Use Regulations and implement appropriate water quality best
management practices (BMP's) on all development proposals':
Best Management Practices will be required with all final construction documents and plans.
• "Require buffer areas of natural vegetation between new developments and created or natural drainage
ways".
The development has specifically been designed to incorporate and protect natural buffers and
drainageways. With the exception of certain, limited areas of disturbance of wetlands, the plan seeks to
avoid disturbance of wetlands and natural drainage ways.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Revise land plan to provide a bridge over existing, mapped wetland areas along the northern
portions of the site (Hillcrest Drive extension; Planning Parcel N).
• "Minimize the extent of impervious surfaces within new developments and encourage the use of
pervious paving systems".
The development seeks to cluster as much density as possible; to limit overall (total) building footprints,
and; to preserve large portions of the site generally in their original state as floodplain meadows and
wetland areas.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Revise the land plan to further cluster development to the extent possible and reduce the amount of
paved areas (roadways, individual driveways) to reduce the total amount of building footprint
and/or impervious surfaces — to increase or preserve groundwater recharge capabilities within the
site. Such revisions may require "variations" to improvement standards.
• Integrate pervious paving where practical within development.
• Consider building designs that incorporate "green roofs" and water re- capture /treatment within roof
design and materials.
(6) Wildlife Resources
• "Support projects intent on removing or minimizing human -made barriers to wildlife migration':
The Colorado State Division of Wildlife has reviewed the Sketch Plan and has provided a response
(attached). As well, the applicant has included a `Wildlife Habitat Assessment ", outlining the potential or
likely use of the project site by certain wildlife species as well as the potential for impacts to the continued
use of the site by such species. According to the report, big game migration or "movement" within the
project boundary will likely not be impeded because development is generally proposed outside of
floodplain and riparian areas, where certain big game species, if they currently use the property for
migration, would continue to move.
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Nevertheless, as the plans are further developed, the applicant should be required to work closely with the
Colorado Division of Wildlife and the consulting wildlife biologist to ensure proper measures are taken in
the design of the project that will specifically minimize potential impacts to big game, aquatic and raptor
species that may inhabit the site and to ensure their continued use of specific habitat types found on the
property.
• "Develop and implement projects that enhance existing wildlife habitat"
The project generally avoids development impacts to high value habitats contained within wetland
and riparian areas. In addition, the applicant continues to work with the Eagle River Watershed Council to
facilitate the ongoing efforts of the Council to rehabilitate degraded riparian habitat along the Eagle River.
While the Council has submitted comments and recommendations outlining related to the treatment of
stormwater, wetlands banking and mitigation.
As well, the referral response letter received from the Colorado Division of Wildlife (attached) appears to
provide a neutral or favorable referral response, stating that "If the project does limit any development to
outside of the riparian zone of influence and facilitates the recovery of the riparian zone the project could
have a positive impact on the aquatic and riparian communities." As well, the CDOW states that it will
look forward to working with the applicant towards design and implementation of a public fishing program
and access.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Revise the land plan to further cluster development to the extent possible.
• Incorporate specific controls or standards within the PUD Guide document restricting the total
amount and height of fencing allowed.
• Provide additional areas for "dog parks ", placed closer to planned residential clusters to benefit the
residents and the environment by providing more space for "active recreation" with pets away from
the Eagle River corridor and sensitive riparian areas.
• Partner with local educational and not - for - profit organizations to provide ongoing water quality
and riparian restoration monitoring.
• "Prevent contaminants from entering local streams and rivers"
The use of Best Management Practices for on-site storm water management will be required.
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance to the stated Comprehensive Plan policy
include:
• Integrate "Distributed Stormwater Management Strategies" into the design of the project.
• "Direct development away from areas of critical wildlife habitat".
No critical wildlife has been identified on the subject property by the applicant's wildlife biologist or the
Colorado Division of Wildlife.
• "Implement and enforce referral recommendations of local wildlife officials"
All comments /recommendations provided by the consulting wildlife biologist should be followed during
any PUD Preliminary Plan design development. The Colorado Division of Wildlife has made no specific
recommendations for the project design or PUD control documents at this time.
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• "Consider the impacts of each new development proposal in context with other existing or potential
developments"
The applicant's wildlife biologist has concluded in a report dated March, 2009:
"Habitat within the project area is not capable of supporting species listed under the [Endangered
Species Act] or identified by the CDOW as state threatened, endangered, or sensitive. Thus, there will
be no long -term or cumulative impacts to any of these species as a result of the project
implementation."
Although there are no mapped migration corridors or critical habitats identified for the site, the proposed
development will add a connector road on the northern boundary of the project that will bisect the site from
west to east. The addition of the proposed road and associated residential development on northern
portion of the site will create a new barrier for any wildlife (big game) using the property as a means to
migrate from north to south across the property to access the Eagle River corridor. Additional traffic from
Brett Ranch Villas and Lake Creek Apartments will use this new connector road, therefore increasing the
potential conflicts with any wildlife that may frequent this corridor for migration.
There is a "Wildlife Mitigation Agreement" for the Brett Ranch Property that was brought to Staff s
attention by one of the referral entities (Ellen Eaton, on behalf of Brett Ranch Villas) that relates wildlife
mitigation to development on certain portions of the Brett Ranch. Staff suggests any existing agreements
be taken into account by the applicant in context to the Eagle River Meadows planning process.
Specifically, the applicant should consider drafting a similar agreement that would compliment or act as an
amendment to the one executed for Brett Ranch PUD.
• "Encourage high - density development within existing community centers".
Portions of the project are designed to focus high- intensity commercial and mixed use development along
Hwy. 6 and in proximity to the existing community center. However, the highest density residential
development is proposed on the northern portion of the property, within Planning Parcel N. This portion of
the site is over '/ mile (walking distance) from the `core' of the project and the nearest regional mass transit
stop.
• "Minimize site disturbance during construction"
A construction management plan, dust suppression plan and other Best Management Practices (BMPs) will
be required as part of any development approvals.
• "If ornamental landscape plants are used, encourage species that are unpalatable to wildlife ".
species are proposed of conceptual Ornamental tree spec es a e p oposed as part o the co ceptua landscape plan for the development. This
issue should be addressed in sufficient detail with the submittal of any Preliminary Plan.
• "Require wildlife proof refuse containers for all new and existing subdivisions".
The application is required to adhere to the ECLUR standards for wildlife refuse containment.
(7) Sensitive Lands
• "Require the evaluation of all geologic hazards and constraints as related to new land use".
The attached Colorado Geological Survey response dated August 14, 2009, references geologic reports by
the applicant indicating that the subject property is encumbered by geologic hazards that will effect
proposed development. Such hazards or general conditions include sinkholes, rock fall (Planning Parcel
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N), subsidence potential debris flow hazard, and the potential for construction- related instability. The CGS
response further notes that all of the identified geologic hazards will require special consideration and
mitigation and that the specific recommendations of the applicant's consulting engineer "should be strictly
adhered to." Additional evaluation and investigation will be required with application for PUD
Preliminary Plan. All recommendations of the Colorado Geological Survey have been made conditions of
approval. (Please refer to attached CGS letter and follow -up letter from the applicant regarding further
geologic investigation and exploration that is proposed prior to or concurrent with Preliminary Plan
submittal).
• "Minimize alteration of the natural landform by new development improvements to the greatest extent
possible".
The southern portion of the site has been severely altered after several decades of intensive industrial use
(resource extraction). Further site disturbance on the southern portion of the site will be minimized and
proposed development on the northern portion of the site will generally be restricted to roadway
construction as well as grading of Planning Parcels M and N.
• "Avoid the aggravation or acceleration of existing potential hazards through land form or vegetation
modification'
All CGS recommendations encouraging further site - specific investigations and studies will be made
conditions of approval.
• "Continue to refer all development plans to the Colorado Geological Survey for comment"
Application referred to CGS on August 14, 2009.
• "Require the incorporation of all recommendations of CGS and other hazards experts into development
plans".
All CGS recommendations encouraging further site - specific investigations and studies will be made
conditions of approval.
• "Consider the cumulative impact of incremental development on landscapes that include visual, historic,
and archeological value during the decision making process ".
The project concentrates a majority of the development on the southern portion of the site along the Hwy. 6
corridor and along the northern boundary of the property, at the toe of the south facing slope. The southern
portion of the site has been severely altered after several decades of intensive industrial use (resource
extraction). Development on both the south and north sides of the property have been clustered outside of
floodplain meadows and wetland areas which are to be preserved as high value open space recreational
areas. Such areas also serve as visually important open space. However, Staff is not aware of any historic
and/or archeological sites on the subject property. No referral responses were received from either the
State Historical Society or the Eagle County Historical Society.
• "Determine the features that make a particular open space parcel valuable given its intended use as
open space and ensure that these features are preserved"
The proposed development plan calls for preservation and/or creation of open space totaling approximately
65% of the overall 105 acre site. Such open space is proposed to include passive and active (recreational)
uses including conservation oriented preservation of existing wetlands and floodplain areas existing in the
meadows, as well as small "neighborhood" parks, a dog park, trail improvements and limited fishing access
to the Eagle River.
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The property is identified within the Edwards Area Community Plan as "Site 2 ". The Plan narrative
describes Site 2:
"This site may provide the best opportunity for additional and highly desired recreational
space. This section could become the centerpiece to a broader recreational linear park along the river."
Staff believes the applicant has designed around sensitive and other high value areas of the site, including
floodplain mesic meadows and wetlands as a practical matter and as a means to respond to the goals and
policies of the Community Plan. Overall, the entirety of the proposed 68 acre open space tract will add
tremendous value to the community as a logical extension to the Eagle River Preserve. Of particular note,
the Eagle River and associated riparian areas may be considered the most valuable portions of the proposed
open space parcels. These natural features are the subject of a multi- million dollar habitat restoration
project undertaken by the Eagle River Watershed Council and, therefore are deserving of the most stringent
protection and preservation. Larger areas of floodplain mesic meadows and wetlands offer additional value
visually and as potential areas where passive recreational trails, adding to the amenity base for the intended
residents of the development as well as the general public.
(8) Environmental Quality
• "Assure access to multi -modal transportation options for all residents, second home owners and
visitors':
The project is specifically designed to "assure access to multi -modal transportation options ", with the
highest intensity uses located on the southern portion of the property, along Hwy. 6 and within walking
distance of existing and/or planned regional mass transit stops. Within the property, trails provide
intermodal connections to regional and local bike and pedestrian networks. The applicant has discussed the
creation of a local "feeder" transit system that would serve the northern portions of the site, and which
could also serve existing residential neighborhoods to the west. Concentrating additional residential
density on the south side of the property may aid in supporting the mechanics of a true transit oriented
development, adding critical mass within walking distance of the transit stop and eliminating the need to
create a separate internal feeder bus system.
• "Provide affordable housing opportunities in close proximity to job centers to reduce personal vehicle
trips':
See previous comments regarding affordable housing and the transit oriented development (TOD) nature of
this project.
• "Focus development within towns and communities to reduce the need for daily commuting".
The project is located within general proximity to an existing community center. Further, the development
is centered on the creation of significant amounts of medical, health and wellness (commercial) uses.
While detailed needs, market and jobs -to- housing analyses are necessary at future stages of plan
development and review, Staff believes such uses could generate significant numbers of local, "living
wage" jobs — in close proximity to the existing population center of Edwards and within walking distance
to proposed residential uses.
• "Set limits for construction site disturbance, require temporary revegetation of stockpiles and permanent
revegetation of all disturbed areas once final grades have been established':
Site - specific grading and erosion control plans will be required with the PUD Preliminary Plan and Final
Plat processes and with each building permit.
• "Require periodic watering and track - out control devices at all construction site access points':
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Site specific grading and erosion control plans will be required with the PUD Preliminary Plan and Final
Plat processes.
• "Utilize motion detectors to minimize the duration of security lighting ".
The draft PUD Guide establishes general standards for exterior lighting. However, detailed lighting
standards will be reviewed with any Preliminary Plan submittal for conformance with ECLUR's and
applicable master plan goals and policies.
• "Ensure that noise levels are safe for residents, visitors and employees".
No uses are proposed that would generate unsafe noise levels.
• "Include an analysis of potential noise when making the finding of compatibility with surrounding uses
for all new development proposals':
No uses are proposed that would generate unsafe noise levels.
• "Promote transit - oriented development, and encourage plans that minimize reliance on personal
motorized vehicles'.
See previous comments regarding the project design and TOD.
• "Design communities in a way that reduces fossil fuel consumption for heating or cooling".
See previous comments regarding TOD, energy efficiency and on -site alternative energy production. In
addition, all new construction is required to meet EcoBuild and Sustainable Communities Index (SCI)
regulations. Staff encourages the applicant to work with "sustainable design" experts, including Eagle
County ECO Build Coordinator, to integrate specific design and construction strategies within the land
plan, site design and building designs during design development of Preliminary Plans.
• Implement energy efficiency guidelines.
See previous comment regarding the design of the project.
• Implement energy saving techniques.
See previous comment regarding the design of the project.
Additional ideas:
1. Community -based agriculture and composting on -site for yard and kitchen waste;
2. Community -based recycling program and facilities on -site.
Future Land Use Map Designation
The Eagle County Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map defers to the Edwards Area Community Plan. The
southern portion of the property is specifically identified within the Edwards Area Community Plan as being
appropriate for mixed use, commercial and residential uses. However, the northern portion of the property is
currently identified with the same plan as being appropriate for additional, "highly desired" open space recreational
uses.
The Plan narrative highlights several salient considerations regarding this site, not the least of which is the
preference by the community while drafting the Edwards Area Community Plan to direct development to the
southern portion of the site and to preserve the existing river corridor and associated open lands to the south and
north of the river for regional recreational uses (as an extension to the Eagle River Preserve). As well, the property
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is uniquely situated to provide a "bookend" to any commercial, "main street - like" development along Hwy. 6.
Mixed use as well as "Medium Density" residential uses are desired as are tying the development to the rest of
Edwards through design and context. Parking should be somehow buffered from views along Hwy. 6.
However, the applicant has correctly stated within the application that, due to the creation of the Eagle River
Preserve in 2005, residential density and commercial uses that may have been envisioned further to the east and
within the existing "core" of Edwards, are now being pushed further west and that any notion of creating a "main
street" along the Hwy. 6 corridor in this portion of Edwards may no longer be feasible or appropriate given the
boundaries of the conservation easement that now encumbers the Eagle River Preserve lands along Hwy. 6.
The presentation of the Eagle River Meadows application to the Planning Commission at this time, with residential
uses planned for the northern half of the property (rather than open space as identified on the FLUM) represents a
requested "case -by- case" exception to the Plan. Staff believes there are grounds for the Planning Commission to
consider the exception, as general conditions in the immediate area did change upon creation of the Eagle River
Preserve. However, the applicant still has the burden of presenting evidence demonstrating an attempt at informing
the homeowners and community of the proposal. As a reminder, the Plan states "There should be no significant
opposition from surrounding homeowners associations or property owners raising germane issues (those that are
addressed in the Area Community Plan's objectives and policy statements)."
Strategies to improve or enhance the project's conformance with the Future Land Use Map and associated
comprehensive plan goals and policies include:
• Revising the land plan to concentrate more, if not all development, specifically residential uses, on the south
side of the property, thereby focusing more intensity nearer to the core of Edwards and in within walking
distance (1/4 mile) of the planned regional bus stop and allowing for the preservation of the northern portions
of the site for use as "additional and highly desired recreational space."
• Work with Eagle County and the Eagle Valley Land Trust and/or other not - for - profit entities to explore
opportunities to permanently protect those portions of the site to the north of the Eagle River as open space.
Specifically, preservation of such areas could achieve the original Plan goal of creating the "centerpiece to a
broader recreational linear park along the river."
• Pursue an exception to the Edwards Area Community Plan and Future Land Use Map (FLUM).
EAGLE COUNTY OPEN SPACE PLAN
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
g
,
, .n
g g >
Exceeds Recommendation X
dahon
Satisfies Recommendation X X X X X X
Incorporates Majority of
Recommendations
Does Not Incorporate
Recommendations
Not Applicable
(1) To the extent the applicant has collaborated with the State (CDOW) and other, state and/or regional
entities, including the Eagle River Watershed Council, the project meets the master plan policy of
cooperating with other agencies.
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(2) The project provides open space and recreation land within the PUD well in excess of the minimum
recommended and required open space pursuant to the ECLURs.
(3) The Plan defines Unique Land Forms as "Lands having unique or outstanding characteristics." As well,
definitions provided by the State Historical Commission provide that "unique geological or ecological systems that
have historic or prehistoric associations and that have not been disturbed...natural features having a historic or
aesthetic and visually pleasing characteristic."
Large portions of the subject property have been previously disturbed by industrial activities. However,
significant tracts of relatively undisturbed open lands exist, and serve as important natural wetland and
floodplain habitat. To the extent the project clusters development on the site, and specifically avoids highly
development of valuable open lands, the policy is met.
(4) See above comment No. 3.
(5) To the extent the project avoids development on slopes exceeding 40 percent and generally focuses
development within and around existing community (centers) in order to enhance open space values in
the outlying areas (of Eagle County), the policy is met.
(6) To the extent the project avoids development on steep slopes, the policy is met. There are no other
identified natural hazards on the subject property with the exception of those identified by the Colorado
Geological Survey; to the extent the recommendations of the CGS are adequately addressed with any
Preliminary Plan submittal, the policy is met.
EDWARDS AREA COMMUNITY PLAN
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
. MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
EDWARDS AREA COMMUNITY PLAN
a2, . 0 1 FLUM
g v) g � Desigr f o
Exceeds
Recommendation
Incorporates
Majority of X 1 X 2 X X X X X X9 X X X
Recommendations -.,..»
Does Not
. Incorporate X
Recommendations _ I
Not Applicable
(1) Land Use
• "The location and type of land uses balance the physical, social, cultural, environmental, and economic
needs of the current and future resident (& tourist) population. Land uses are located in a manne th
protects and improves the quality of the natural and man made environment, ensures the timely, cost -
55
08/24/2010
effective provision of public facilities and services, and retains the unique variety of lifestyles and quality
of life found in Edwards':
In that the applicant proposes to meet the minimum requirements of the Eagle County Housing Guidelines
by creating approximately one hundred and sixty (160) "affordable" dwelling units of varying sizes, types
and price points within the development, the majority (114) located within walking distance to regional
transit, social equity may be improved. As well, the project has the potential to provide additional public
access to significant amounts of "highly desired" open space recreational opportunities in close proximity
to existing park lands.
Whether or not the proposed development balances the physical, social, cultural, environmental and
economic needs of the current and future resident population is not clear at this time. The project will,
however, contribute in some manner to the existing physical, social, cultural, environmental and economic
condition of Edwards. Overall, development has been planned to avoid valued natural resource and open
space recreational lands and to enhance and respect the existing character and "context" of the community.
Portions of the development will protect the natural environment by utilizing infill development and
avoiding sprawl by reusing previously disturbed gravel mine areas. Public facilities and services are
present and service providers have indicated a "conditional" availability to serve the project. However,
Staff believes the applicant should consider the cost of extending services and infrastructure (roads, water
and sewer) to the northern portions of the property in comparison to concentrating all development on the
south side of the property. The proposal, if approved, could add to the unique variety of lifestyles,
employment and quality of life found in Edwards.
(2) Housing
• "There is an adequate supply of safe and affordable housing to meet the needs of the Edwards Planning
Area, including low and moderate income households and populations with special needs':
The applicant has committed to meeting the minimum requirements of the Eagle County Local Resident
Housing Guidelines and the plans conceptually propose to provide approximately one hundred and sixty
(160) "affordable" dwelling units of varying sizes, types and price points within the development. As plans
are further developed, following completion of detailed market and needs analyses by the applicant, there
may be opportunities to further diversify the variety of housing types, sizes and values to meet the specific
master plan objectives. As well, the Community Plan would support additional housing to be placed closer
to the Hwy. 6 corridor, in closer proximity to the community center and jobs.
(3) Transportation
• "The Edwards traffic circulation network has sufficient capacity to efficiently; conveniently and safely
move people, goods and services throughout the Edwards Community and Eagle County with minimal
adverse impact to the natural environment".
Pursuant to the attached Eagle County Engineering ed ag e Cou ty ngmeermg Department Memorandum dated August 12, 2009 the
County has stated concerns regarding the traffic to be generated by the proposed development and the
amount of roadway (transportation) capacity improvements that will be necessary to serve the project at full
build -out. Specifically, the applicant's traffic analysis estimates that the project will generate
approximately 6,990 new vehicle trips per day at full build -out. This analysis also recommends certain
major improvements to the Edwards traffic circulation network, and it presumes that such improvements
will be in place at the time of full buildout. In response, the County has essentially put the applicant "on-
notice": that the County will most likely not be in a position to complete such improvements at an
estimated (total) cost of $62 million dollars and that the applicant should explore "ideas for funding these
improvements ".
The applicant is participating in discussions with the Edwards Authority towards the formation of a
"regional transportation authority" or similar entity, for the purpose of funding ongoing transportation and
56
08/24/2010
transit improvements in the Edwards area. Staff is supportive of this process, yet cautions that until and
unless there is an actual, sustainable funding solution presented — one that is tied to capital improvements
strategic planning and budgeting in coordination with phasing plans for individual development proposals
in the Edwards area — the County will not be in a position to make a positive finding regarding capacity of
the transportation system.
• "The Eagle County Transit Authority and other entities cooperate to increase utilization of mass transit
opportunities, provide a more viable alternative to the automobile user, and improve services to the non -
driving public':
The subject property is located just outside what could be considered the "core" area of Edwards. The
property is located along Hwy. 6 and adjacent to existing and planned regional bus stops. As such, the
development parcel is particularly well suited for transit oriented development patterns. ECO Transit has
submitted comments regarding the proposed land use, stating general concerns about the ultimate impacts
from a ridership and "para- transit" needs analysis standpoint. Essentially, ECO Transit has asked for
additional information regarding the number, type and price point of residential units as well as details
regarding any future proposed senior or assisted living proposed on the site.
Like the concerns of the Eagle County Engineering Department, ECO Transit will ultimately benefit from
any sustainable funding solutions such as a regional transit authority to make up anticipated capital
improvements and operational expenditure shortfalls.
(4) Open Space
• "Open Space preservation is promoted within the Edwards Planning Area through coordination with
land owners, developers, and other agencies and organizations':
Open space preservation is a true cornerstone of this development proposal and the applicant has agreed to
coordinate with Eagle County and the Eagle River Watershed Council towards crafting a land plan with
specific physical improvements (trails, parking lots, public access points) that work with planned or
constructed improvements at the Eagle River Preserve as well as multi - million dollar restoration
improvements recently completed or underway on the Eagle River and associated riparian habitat.
(5) Potable Water and Wastewater
• "Adequate potable water and sanitary sewer service is available for most existing and proposed
development. When either are not available, private systems are required to operate in such a manner as
to protect the community and environment of Eagle County and the Edwards area':
It is anticipated that the subject property will be served by public water and sanitation facilities.
• "Natural groundwater aquifer recharge areas, surface water reservoirs and well -field zones are
protected from environmental degradation"
As part of the Corrective Action Plan proposed by Terracon, monitoring wells will be installed on the
property to ensure groundwater resources are protected. In addition, the applicant has discussed w ith Staff
the possibility of working with local schools (Gore Range Natural Science School) and entities such as the
Eagle River Watershed Council to provide strategic water quality and restoration monitoring partnerships,
essentially creating a "living" classroom for such entities using the restored riparian areas and existing
wetland areas of the property.
The development seeks to cluster as much density as possible: to limit overall (total) building footprints
and to preserve large portions of the site generally in their original state as floodplain meadows and wetland
areas. Incorporating more pervious paving materials, integrating "green roof' designs for individual
57
08/24/2010
buildings and generally seeking to increase the clustering of the development footprint to the highest extent
possible may allow for more protection of recharge areas and surface water quality.
(6) Services and Facilities
• "Solid and hazardous wastes are managed in an environmentally sound manner within the Edwards
Planning Area':
The proposed development is not anticipated to generate any hazardous wastes; however the site has been
the subject of a "Corrective Action Plan" (CAP) to clean up soils previously contaminated by historic
industrial use on the southern portion of the property. The Eagle County Environmental Health
Department has reviewed the application and, specifically, the CAP ". As part of the CAP, monitoring
wells will be installed on the property to ensure groundwater resources are protected.
Medical uses on site may produce "bio- hazards" and, therefore, the applicant may be required to provide
details regarding proper handling of such waste within the PUD Guide and/or protective covenants for the
development prior to or concurrent with Preliminary Plan submittal.
It is anticipated that solid wastes will be handled by one of the refuse management companies doing
business in the Eagle Valley.
• "The Eagle County School Board, private schools, and Colorado Mountain College are supported and
encouraged to provide a strong educational system':
This Plan Goal is not directly applicable. To the extent the project will impact the local school system; the
School District was sent a referral for the Sketch Plan and will be included in any future referrals for
Preliminary Plan review. The applicant will be required to mitigate impacts to the school system.
(7) Environmental Quality
• "Ecosystem management, multi jurisdictional, multiple use and travel management issues within and
adjacent to the Edwards Planning Area are a cooperative effort among all involved agencies and
organizations':
The subject property is not boarded by any federal or state lands, but does share a common boundary with
the Eagle River Preserve, a public open space parcel held in a conservation easement by the Eagle Valley
Land Trust. As well, the Colorado Division of Wildlife has reviewed the Sketch Plan and has provided
initial comments regarding the proposed plans. The applicant has met with representatives of the Eagle
River Watershed Committee to discuss ongoing riparian and river habitat restoration projects occurring on
the property.
• "A technically and economically feasible drainage system with adequate protection from flooding,
storm -water inundation, surface and groundwater pollution due to storm -water runoff is ensured in a
manner compatible with the policies contained herein"
Best Management Practices for stormwater management will be required for the project. At the
recommendation of the Eagle River Watershed Council, the applicant has indicated a willingness to explore
opportunities to integrate "Distributed Stormwater Management Strategies" as plans are further developed
in order to improve the overall stormwater management and environmental performance of the project.
• "Clean mountain air, scenic vistas and the visual qualities of the night sky are amenities of the Edwards
area and are protected from environmental and scenic degradation':
Overall, the development plan limits disturbance of the site to those areas already altered by previous
industrial activities, or concentrates new areas of building activity and site disturbance within relatively
58
08/24/2010
compact clusters. Scenic vistas from the I -70 and Hwy. 6 corridors, from the Eagle River Preserve and the
Edwards area in general to the river corridor and associated floodplain meadows will largely be preserved.
The applicant will be required to implement a construction and dust /erosion control management plan
during construction. As well, the applicant will be encouraged to meet the goals and policies of the
County's ECO Build Code and Sustainable Communities Index and to integrate energy efficient site and
building designs as well as construction techniques that reduce the overall amount of materials and waste.
Such efforts could cause the project to have a reduced or neutral impact on "clean mountain air ".
• "Development activities that would damage or destroy unique natural resources are discouraged as is
improvements on or near natural hazards".
Overall, the development plan limits disturbance of the site to those areas already altered by previous
industrial activities, or concentrates new areas of building activity and site disturbance within relatively
compact clusters. Importantly, the plan preserves significant portions of "highly valued" natural resources.
According to initial geotechnical and soils investigations performed on the site, the property does include
potential natural hazards such as sink holes, subsidence and rock fall hazards. However, such conditions
are not atypical for most areas within the Eagle River Valley or tributary valleys and the initial report sets
forth specific recommendations to be followed through any further design of the project.
• "Riparian areas, wetlands and aquatic habitat located within the Edwards Planning Area are preserved
and enhanced':
Overall, the development plan limits disturbance of the site to those areas already altered by previous
industrial activities, or concentrates new areas of building activity and site disturbance within relatively
compact clusters outside of mapped floodplains, wetlands and riparian areas.
• "Unique and rare upland vegetative communities as identified by Colorado Division of Wildlife,
Colorado National Heritage Program, e ram White River National Forest, and Bureau of Land Management
g
are protected from environmental degradation, and native habitat of each community type and for each
designated species are also protected to ensure that representative communities of each type remain
intact within the Edwards Planning Area and adjacent public lands".
Staff is not aware of any unique or rare upland vegetative communities have been identified on the site and
the Colorado Division of Wildlife has not identified any such habitat or vegetative communities on the site.
(8) Economic Development
• "Balanced, orderly and sustainable growth of the Edwards economy is supported and promoted':
The commercial component of the development plan centers on the provision of significant amounts of and
medical service, support retail, research and office uses. Such uses and industry, if created on this site,
could further enhance the economic diversification of the immediate area as well as on a regional basis.
The provision of additional professional and skilled service sector jobs could enhance economic
sustainability within Eagle County.
(9) Recreation and Tourism
• "Parks, river access, recreational facilities and open space are provided to meet current and future needs
of the residents of Edwards and Eagle County. These are designed in such a way as to ensure increased
accessibility and provide a more even distribution to the Edwards Planning Area's parks and open space
system"
The proposed preservation of 68 acres of "highly valuable" recreational and conservation oriented open
space within this project provides the following: park area, additional river access, passive and act ive
recreational uses, and a logical extension to the Eagle River Preserve.
59
08/24/2010
• "Access to all public open spaces is preserved All public open space is connected through an effective
network of bicycle, equestrian and pedestrian trails that maintain a safe distance from the river'.
The plans show several new trail segments within the property, connecting regional and local trails to
regional trails as well as those proposed on the Eagle River Preserve. Additional access therefore will be
provided through the site — to high value open space areas and to the river for fishing access. ECO Trails
has reviewed the plans and has recommended that certain trails become paved to connect with existing or
planned regional trails.
(10) Historic Preservation
• "Historical and cultural resources in the Edwards area are protected and interpreted for future residents
and tourists':
No historical or cultural resources have been identified upon the subject property. However, to the extent
the north meadow areas represent historic agricultural open lands as a cultural resource; the applicant has
worked to design a land plan that focuses most development in limited areas on the northern boundary of
the north meadow area.
(11) Implementation
• "All capital improvement planning by service and infrastructure providers to the Edwards Planning
Area supports the growth management goals and objectives of this Area Community Plan"
If this application is approved, the developer will be responsible for installing the public infrastructure
necessary to support the proposed development as well as mitigation of the impacts it would create. To the
this plan is being reviewed against the master plan goal of balancing growth and evaluating applications
based on need and impact (Community Plan Objective 1.2), Staff believes service provision will only occur
if and when capacity improvements have been made and/or impacts quantified during the review process
have been properly mitigated.
• "Agencies and interest groups such as the Bureau of Land Management, United States Forest Service,
Eagle River Water and Sanitation District, Upper Eagle Valley Regional Water Authority and the Eagle
River Watershed Council cooperate to ensure the smooth enactment and realization of this plan':
Staff has received referral responses from several of these groups and will incorporate their
recommendations and findings in this report for use by the applicant, the Planning Commission and the
Board of County Commissioners.
•
• "The community is supported in any grass -roots endeavor to incorporate':
This goal is not applicable.
(12) Future Land Use Map Designation
The Edwards Area Community Plan Future Land Use Map identifies the subject property as appropriate for
mixed -use development and open space. See previous comments regarding Future Land Use Map
designation, "case -by- case" exceptions to the Community Plan/FLUM and recommended strategies to
increase conformity with the goals and policies of applicable master plan documents.
EAGLE RIVER WATERSHED PLAN
Water Quantity Water Quality Wildlife Recreation Land Use
60
08/24/2010
Exceeds
Recommendation
Incorporates Majority X 3 X'
of Recommendations
Does Not Incorporate X X
Recommendations
Not Applicable X
(1) Water Quantity
Although the application does not necessarily propose or commit to any specific water conservation
methods, measures such as reuse or recycling of "gray water" on site and requiring the use of xeriscape
landscape design and planting methods will be encouraged throughout the design development of the
project to reduce the overall amount of domestic (central) water demand for the project. As well,
throughout the process, the applicant will be required to demonstrate the provision of "wet" water
(2) Water Quality
Proposed installation of groundwater monitoring wells on the property by the applicant, when combined
with future requirements to utilize Best Management Practices (BMPs) during and after construction of the
project, will serve to incorporate two objectives of this goal. Further, protection of wetlands on the
property, reduction of impervious surfaces and integration of "Distributed Stormwater Management
Strategies" will add to conformance with water quality goals. Forming strategic partnerships with entities
such as the Eagle River Watershed Council and the Gore Range Natural Science School for the purpose of
ongoing education and monitoring of river and riparian habitat restoration will also increase conformance.
(3) Wildlife
To the extent the development does not hinder, harm or preclude river and riparian habitat restoration
projects, the project meets the objectives of the Plan. Specifically, the development will preserve
significant amounts of aquatic and riparian habitats. Measures should be taken to minimize the impact of
proposed trail placement and direct access points in close proximity to the Eagle River. In addition, the
applicant may be required to implement seasonal closures in wetland and riparian areas of the property.
(4) Recreation
To the extent new access points along the Eagle River are created in consideration of the recommendations
of the Eagle River Watershed Plan, the objectives for improving and providing additional public access can
be met.
(5) Land Use
The development follows the recommendation of the Plan by limiting building activity to those areas
outside the floodplain while protecting riparian areas. As well, the provision of trails and park areas as well
as the preservation of open spaces in perpetuity meet the objectives of the Plan. The plan also lists open
space and recreational uses are listed as "appropriate" uses in proximity to rivers and streams.
STANDARD: Phasing [Section 5- 240.F.3.e (11)] — The Preliminary Plan for PUD shall include a
phasing plan for the development. If development of the PUD is proposed to occur in phases, then
guarantees shall be provided for public improvements and amenities that are necessary and desirable for
residents of the project, or that are of benefit to the entire County. Such public improvements shall be
constructed with the first phase of the project, or, if this is not possible, then as early in the project as is
reasonable.
Phasing Plan Provided? X Yes No
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
61
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DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
The developer has provided conceptual phasing information. Due to the complex nature of the proposed
mixed use development, the intensity of uses and the potential impacts generated from the development on
County services and local infrastructure, a detailed phasing plan will be required with the submittal of any
Preliminary Plan for the property.
See Condition(s): 23
STANDARD: Common Recreation and Open Space. [Section 5- 240.F.3.e (12)] —
The PUD shall comply with the following common recreation and open space standards.
(a) Minimum Area. It is recommended that a minimum of 25% of the total PUD area shall be devoted
to open air recreation or other usable open space, public or quasi public. In addition, the PUD
shall provide a minimum of ten (10) acres of common recreation and usable open space lands for
every one thousand (1,000) persons who are residents of the PUD. In order to calculate the
number of residents of the PUD, the number of proposed dwelling units shall be multiplied by two
and sixty -three hundredths (2.63), which is the average number of persons that occupy each
dwelling unit in Eagle County, as determined in the Eagle County Comprehensive Plan.
(b) Areas that Do Not Count as Open Space. Parking and loading areas, street right -of -ways, and
areas with slopes greater than thirty (30) percent shall not count toward usable open space.
(c) Areas that Count as Open Space. Water bodies, lands within critical wildlife habitat areas,
riparian areas, and one hundred (100) year floodplains, as defined in these Land Use Regulations,
that are preserved as open space shall count towards this minimum standard, even when they are
not usable by or accessible to the residents of the PUD. All other open space lands shall be
conveniently accessible from all occupied structures within the PUD.
(d) Improvements Required All common open space and recreational facilities shall be shown on the
Preliminary Plan for PUD and shall be constructed and fully improved according to the
development schedule established for each development phase of the PUD.
(e) Continuing Use and Maintenance. All privately owned common open space shall continue to
conform to its intended use, as specified on the Preliminary Plan for PUD. To ensure that all the
common open space identified in the PUD will be used as common open space, restrictions and /or
covenants shall be placed in each deed to ensure their maintenance and to prohibit the division of
any common open space.
(� Organization. If common open space is proposed to be maintained through an association or
nonprofit corporation, such organization shall manage all common open space and recreational
and cultural facilities that are not dedicated to the public, and shall provide for the maintenance,
administration and operation of such land and any other land within the PUD not publicly owned,
and secure adequate liability insurance on the land. The association or nonprofit corporation
shall be established prior to the sale of any lots or units within the PUD. Membership in the
association or nonprofit corporation shall be mandatory for all landowners within the PUD.
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
Total Subject Land Area: 105 acres 4,573,800 square feet
Recommended 25% of Total Land Area as 26.25 ac. = 65 % 1,143,450 square feet
Usable Open Space
Additional Amount of Open Space 380 DU x 2.63 persons/1000 population = 999 new
Required Per 1000 Persons = 10 acres residents x 10 acres/1000 population = 10 acres =
435,000 square feet
Total Space Required and Provided 10 acres 68 acres provided
Open (per ECLUR's)
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re Public and Quasi- Wetlands and Floodplain; parkland;
Y ublic, Quasi - Public or ' Priv t 2 Describe:
Public tra an Rive Access
Restrictions on Open Space: ` TBD Describe:
The overall amount of open space exceeds the requirements in the ECLURs. However, the applicant
should be required to revise the plans to include more provisions for active parkland and/or "dog parks" in
close proximity to planned residential areas. As such, the plan should respond appropriately to the amount
of usable open space provided to ensure the actual daily needs (active and passive recreation, community
gardens, etc.) are met while providing for conservation and environmental goals and objectives of
applicable master plans.
See Condition(s): 20, 22
STANDARD: Natural Resource Protection. [Section 5- 240.F.3.e (13)] - The PUD shall consider the
recommendations made by the applicable analysis documents, as well as the recommendations of referral
agencies as specified in Article 4, Division 4, Natural Resource Protection Standards.
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
l~ a .; 1 C4 .6
Exceeds ECLUR Requirernents
Satisfies ECLUR Requirement X X' X X X
t,.
Does Not Satisfy ECLURwRequiretnent '.
Not Applicable/No ECLUR Requirement X
(1) The comments set forth in the Colorado Geological Survey's response dated August 14, 2009 must
be adhered to prior to or concurrent with any Preliminary Plan submittal.
(2) Development of the site must comply with all applicable ECLUR wildfire regulations as well as
any future recommendations of the Eagle River Fire Protection District.
(3) The PUD Guide states that wood burning devices are to comply with the provisions of the
ECLURs. The Guide should be revised to specifically restrict wood burning fireplaces within the
proposed development.
See Condition(s): 15, 17, 18, 22
OTHER APPLICABLE STANDARD(S) FOR PUD SKETCH/PRELIMINARY PLAN:
The finding from the Eagle County Land Use Regulations is as follows:
Pursuant to Section 5- 240.F.2.a. (15):
15. (a) Supporting data to justify any proposed commercial and industrial elements in an
area not so zoned (e.g. needs and market analyses); although the applicant has provided
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08/24/2010
a report by Jill Hunsaker, Silver Street Consulting, LLC. entitled "Rationale for
Development of a Health Campus ", no specific analyses were provided for this PUD
Sketch Plan. Detailed needs and market analyses will be required prior to or concurrent
with any PUD Preliminary Plan submittal. Such analyses should inform the creation of
detailed phasing plans.
(b) Proposed schedule of development phasing; the proposal includes conceptual
information regarding phasing. A detailed phasing plan will be required for any PUD
Preliminary Plan submittal.
(c) Statement as to the impact of the proposed PUD upon the County school system; The
RE -1 School District has not responded as of this writing; nevertheless, pursuant to the
ECLUR's, the total amount of school land dedication required for this development is 1.18
acres. The fee -in -lieu amount will be determined based upon a summary appraisal report
at the time of Final Plat application.
(d) Statement of estimated demands for County services; While the applicant has provided
initial information related to the amount of infrastructure (capital) improvements that will
be necessary to adequately serve the development at full build -out, no actual statement of
estimated demands on County services has been declared at this time. As plans are further
developed, the applicant will be require to provide detailed analyses of such impacts or
demands on ALL applicable County services. Also, Eagle County will be completing
further analysis of the incremental benefits and costs to Eagle County using "Site Stats"
financial impact modeling tool.
(e) Statement of projected County tax revenue based upon the previous year's County
tax levy and a schedule of projected receipts of that revenue; the applicant has provided
a general statement of tax revenues based on current mill levies. Also, Eagle County will
be completing further analysis of the incremental benefits and costs to Eagle County using
"Site Stats" fmancial impact modeling tool.
(f) Conceptual site plans, and conceptual architectural plans; A conceptual site plan,
landscape plans, circulation plans, and architectural renderings have been provided. At the
time of Preliminary Plan application greater detail and typical renderings of site and
architectural design, mass and bulk will be required.
(g) Proposed method of fire protection. Including information demonstrating a legal,
adequate water supply for fire fighting purposes; The development will be served by
the Eagle River Fire Protection District. No comments were received from the District at
the time of writing.
(h) Employee housing plan. The applicant has submitted a housing plan; however the
applicant and County Staff have discussed alternate means to meet the minimum standard
of the Guidelines.
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
Pursuant to Eagle. County Land Use Regulations Section 5- 280.B.3.e. Standards for the review of a
Preliminary Plan for Subdivision:
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08/24/2010
STANDARD: Consistent with Comprehensive Plan. [Section 5 - 280. B.3.e (1)] B Th proposed
subdivision shall be consistent with the Eagle County Comprehensive Plan and the F L UM of the
Comprehensive Plan.
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDIS
MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MIN IMUM STANDARDS
DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
The consideration of the relevant master plans during sketch plan review is on a broad conceptual level,
i.e, how a proposal compares to basic planning principles. As a development proposal moves from sketch
plan to preliminary plan review its conformance or lack thereof to aspects of the master plans may not
necessarily remain static.
Please reference the Comprehensive Plan evaluation detailed above.
STANDARD: Consistent with Land Use Regulations. [Section 5 - 280.B.3.e (2)] B The proposed
subdivision shall comply with all of the standards of this Se ction and all other provisions of these hand Use
Regulations, including, but not limited to, the applicable standards of Article 3, Zone Districts, and Article
4, Site Development Standards.
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
::.::.,,,: .;, *,, 1-, i 'Si, ,,, ..,,,:.:'' - '''„ 'Mg t "' -,,, 2 T , Art Site Devet t a rd i o,
V
X Off - Street Parking and Loading Standards (Div 4 -1)
X Landscaping and Illumination Standards (Division 4 -2)
X Sign Regulations (Division 4 -3)
8, 15
X Wildlife Protection (Section 4 -410)
X Geologic Hazards (Section 4-420) 7
X Wildfire Protection (Section 4 -430)
X Wood Burning Controls (Section 4-440) 2, 14
X Ridgeline Protection (Section 4 -450)
X Environmental Impact Report (Section 4-460)
X Commercial and Industrial Performance Standards (Division 4 -5)
X Noise and Vibration (Section 4 -520) 16
X Smoke and Particulates (Section 4 -530)
X Heat, Glare, Radiation and Electrical Interference (Section 4 -540)
X Storage of Hazardous and Non - hazardous Materials (Section 4 -550)
X Water Quality Standards (Section 4 -560) 2, 9, 10, (1, 17
X Roadway Standards (Section 4 -620) J
65
08/24/2010
1 mn ?3 1 . a ..� 4`
N #
` o • Article 4, Site Development Standards
„ 4 �d#tions
z
X Sidewalk and Trail Standards (Section 4 - 630)
X Irrigation System Standards (Section 4 - 640)
X Drainage Standards (Section 4 - 650)
X Grading and Erosion Control Standards (Section 4 - 660)
X Utility and Lighting Standards (Section 4 - 670)
X Water Supply Standards (Section 4 - 680)
X Sanitary Sewage Disposal Standards (Section 4 - 690) 12
X Impact Fees and Land Dedication Standards (Division 4 -7) Applicable
(1) Refer to attached letter from the Colorado Geological Survey (and previous comments
Regarding further geologic analysis that will be required by the applicant).
STANDARD: Spatial Pattern Shall Be Efficient. [Section 5- 280.B.3.e (3)] B The proposed subdivision
shall be located and designed to avoid creating spatial patterns that cause inefficiencies in the delivery of
public services, or require duplication or premature extension of public facilities, or result in a "leapfrog"
pattern of development.
(1) Utility and Road Extensions. Proposed utility extensions shall be consistent with the utility's service
plan or shall require prior County approval of an amendment to the service plan. Proposed road
extensions shall be consistent with the Eagle County Road Capital Improvements Plan.
(2) Serve Ultimate Population. Utility lines shall be sized to serve the planned ultimate population of the
service area to avoid future land disruption to upgrade under -sized lines.
(3) Coordinate Utility Extensions. Generally, utility extensions shall only be allowed when the entire
range of necessary facilities can be provided, rather than incrementally extending a single service into
an otherwise un -served area.
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
The project is located such that it would not result in a `leapfrog' pattern of development and the site is
already served certain utility /service lines.
STANDARD: Suitability for Development. [Section 5- 280.B.3.e (4)] B The property proposed to be
subdivided shall be suitable for development, considering its topography, environmental resources and
natural or human -made hazards that may affect the potential development of the property, and existing and
probable future public improvements to the area.
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
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No natural or human -made hazards have been identified at this level of review that would absolutely
preclude successful development of the subject property as proposed if properly mitigated pursuant to the
recommendations of the Colorado Geological Survey.
STANDARD: Compatible with Surrounding Uses. [Section 5- 280.B.3.e (5)] B The proposed subdivision
shall be compatible with the character of existing land uses in the area and shall not adversely affect the
future development of the surrounding area.
EXCEEDS MINIMUM STANDARDS
X MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS
MEETS THE MAJORITY OF MINIMUM STANDARDS
DOES NOT MEET MINIMUM STANDARDS
Please refer to the Compatibility discussion above. Additional controls and potential revisions to the site
and landscape plans may be necessary to prevent any potential nuisances occurring from proposed
wholesale nursery and light industrial activities. Nothing is proposed that would preclude or adversely
affect the development of the surrounding area in the future.
C. SUMMARY ANALYSIS:
During the course of review of this file by the Eagle County Planning Commission, both Staff and the
Applicant have worked to identify and address issues of concern related to the proposed PUD. Issues such
as senior housing provision, development of the north side of the property relative to conformance with the
Edwards Area Community Plan and the Future Land Use Map (FLUM), traffic and possible, funding
sources for future (regional) transportation improvements have dominated months of discussions — within
the hearing room and in numerous meetings with Eagle County Staff members from ECO Transit, ECO
Trails, the Housing and Development Department and the Environmental Health Department. Likewise,
meetings held between Eagle County Staff and representatives from the Edwards Community Authority
(ECA) regarding the need to update transportation corridor feasibility studies and the potential formation of
local improvement districts (LIDs) or a regional transportation/transit authority (RTA) have been of
particular value to furthering our review of this Sketch Plan for PUD.
The Planning Commission, in eight hearings, provided a thorough review of major topics germane to the
concept's conformance with applicable comprehensive plans, as well as requirements of the Land Use
Regulations (LURs). Issues such as the proposal's conformance with the County's Sustainable
Communities Index (SCI), although not a major topic of discussion, were discussed - with a general
recognition that as the plans are further developed, the Applicant will be required to work with Staff to
further integrate suggested changes meant to increase the project's SCI score.
Overall, the suggested conditions of approval reflect the major issues of concern moving forward and
demonstrate both the Planning Commission's attentiveness to giving clear direction to the Applicant in the
event a Preliminary Plan is submitted in the future, as well as Staff's ability to work with other County
departments and the Applicant to proactively agree on those issues which will be "non- negotiable"
submittal requirements on the front end of any Preliminary Plan submittal.
Given the summary of Planning Commission deliberations provided on pages 8 -15 and the suggested
conditions of approval forwarded with a unanimous recommendation for approval of the Sketch Plan, the
following aspects, at a minimum, should be considered in the review of this Sketch Plan:
1. Traffic and transportation issues, including a discussion regarding updating the U.S. Hwy. 6 /I -70G
Corridor Feasibility Study vs. providing a "localized improvement plan ".
2. The formation of Regional Transportation/Transit Authorities, Local Improvement Districts and
other project specific funding mechanisms (mill levies) to fund on and off-site improvements.
3. Walkability of the project.
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4. The appropriateness, benefits and disadvantages of development on the north side of the property.
5. Timing of development phasing, "triggers" and the need for detailed phasing plans.
6. Riparian area and wetlands delineation/restoration planning (working with the Eagle River
Watershed Council) and future revisions to the proposed PUD layout.
7. Eagle County Local- Resident Housing Guidelines and the dispersion of affordable /deed restricted
housing throughout the PUD.
8. Open space, trails, public parking, river access and ongoing maintenance of open space tracts.
Similar to the organization of Planning Commission review of the file, Staff and the Applicant will
coordinate the presentation of topics for each Board of County Commissioner's hearing — based on Board
input — in a logical manner, grouping certain topics together to maximize efficiency of review.
D. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OPTIONS:
1. Approve the [PDS -2313] request without conditions if it is determined that the petition will not
adversely affect the public health, safety, and welfare and the proposed use is attuned with the
immediately adjacent and nearby neighborhood properties and uses and the proposal is in compliance
with both the Eagle County Land Use Regulations and with the guidelines of the Eagle County
Comprehensive Plan (and/or other applicable master plans).
2. Deny the [PDS - 2313] request if it is determined that the petition will adversely affect the public
health, safety, and welfare and/or the proposed use is not attuned with the immediately adjacent and
nearby neighborhood properties and uses and the proposal is not in compliance with both the Eagle
County Land Use Regulations and with the guidelines of the Eagle County Comprehensive Plan
(and/or other applicable master plans).
3. Table the [PDS - 2313] request if additional information is required to fully evaluate the petition.
Give specific direction to the petitioner and staff.
4. Approve the [PDS - 2313] request with conditions and/or performance standards if it is determined
that certain conditions and/or performance standards are necessary to ensure public, health, safety, and
welfare and/or enhances the attunement of the use with the immediately adjacent and nearby
neighborhood properties and uses and the proposal is in compliance with both the Eagle County Land
Use Regulations and with the guidelines of the Eagle County Comprehensive Plan (and/or other
applicable master plans).
E. SUGGESTED CONDITIONS:
1. Except as otherwise modified by this development permit, all material representations made by the
Applicant in this application and in public meeting shall be adhered to and considered conditions of
approval.
2. All comments set forth in the Eagle County Environmental Health Department dated August 12, 2009, shall
be adequately addressed prior to or concurrent with any PUD Preliminary Plan application.
3. All comments set forth in the Eagle County Engineering Department memorandum(s) dated August
12,2009, and March 31, 2010, shall be adequately addressed prior to or concurrent with any PUD
Preliminary Plan application.
4. Recommendations set forth in the ECO Trails correspondence dated August 13, 2009, shall be addressed
prior to or concurrent with any PUD Preliminary Plan.
5. Comments set forth by the ECO Transit in correspondence dated August 11, 2009 and in correspondence
received October 19, 2009, shall be addressed prior to or concurrent with any PUD Preliminary Plan
submittal.
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6. The Applicant shall work with the Eagle County Housing and Development Department Director as well as
other County Staff towards finalization of the housing plan and the applicant's housing mitigation
obligations under the Eagle County Local Resident Housing Guidelines. In addition, the applicant will be
required to work with Eagle County Staff to further explore opportunities and options to integrate deed
restricted and resident occupied housing of varying types, sizes and price points throughout the
development, to dedicate lands to the county for mitigation purposes, to provide affordable - commercial
space aimed at local businesses and entrepreneurs, to provide live -work units and to examine other funding
mechanisms, such as transfer and sales assessments, to mitigate fully the development's impacts.
7. All comments set forth in the Colorado Geological Survey response dated August 14, 2009, shall be
addressed prior to or concurrent with any PUD Preliminary Plan application.
8. Comments and recommendations set forth in a letter from the State of Colorado Division of Wildlife dated
August 10, 2009, shall be incorporated into any future design development of the PUD and shall be
otherwise be adequately be addressed prior to or concurrent with any PUD Preliminary Plan application.
9. Comments and conditions set forth in a letter from the State of Colorado, Solid Waste and Materials
Management Unit, dated August 11, 2009, regarding approval of a Corrective Action Plan Modification
dated August 10, 2009, shall be addressed prior to any Preliminary Plan application. Pursuant to the letter
from the State, the Eagle County Environmental Health Department shall be provided a copy of all reports
describing the "results of remediation at the site."
10. Comments and recommendations set forth in a letter from the NWCCOG dated August 12, 2009, shall be
incorporated into any future design development, specifically drainage, and construction storm water
discharge planning, and shall otherwise be adequately addressed prior to or concurrent with any PUD
Preliminary Plan application.
11. Comments and recommendations set forth in letters from the Eagle River Watershed Council dated August
17, 2009 and October 21, 2009 shall be incorporated into any future design development of the PUD and
shall otherwise be adequately addressed prior to or concurrent with any PUD Preliminary Plan application.
12. Comments and conditions set forth in the "Conditional Service Capacity Commitment" letter from the
Eagle River Water and Sanitation District, dated November 25, 2009, shall be adequately addressed prior to
or concurrent with any PUD Preliminary Plan application.
13. The Applicant shall coordinate any and all future design development for the PUD with the Eagle River
Fire Protection District and other applicable emergency service districts for the purpose of ensuring any and
all variations to dimensional limitations and/or Eagle County road and improvement standards are in
conformance with applicable codes prior to or concurrent with any PUD Preliminary Plan application.
14. The PUD Guide shall be revised to include, but not be limited to: a) more specific provisions, language and
limits pertaining to all proposed uses; b) detailed dimensional limitations and development standards such
as maximum building height, bulk and mass controls, and setbacks for each planning parcel; c) additional
controls such as lighting standards; d) a master (comprehensive) sign program for the development; e) a
definitions section; f) amendments provisions; g) landscape standards; h) renderings and illustrations
necessary to adequately communicate absolute and "recommended" development standards, and; i)
provisions and details addressing the administration, development and ongoing maintenance of all internal
trails, "dog parks" and amenities such as community gardens.
15. The Applicant shall revise the land plan as necessary to provide or specifically define additional locations
or areas within the PUD to provide active recreational uses, where appropriate, and to include provisions
for community gardens and additional "dog parks ". In addition, the Applicant shall work with County
Staff, as well as representatives from the Colorado Division of Wildlife and the Eagle River Watershed
Council towards the mitigation of any potential negative impacts from increased access to the river corridor
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and riparian areas by future residents and the public. Pathways, "dog park" areas, and drainage plans
within the site are to be designed specifically to ensure that wetlands, riparian areas and the Eagle River
resources within the PUD are not permanently damaged by any and all construction and to ensure that the
potential for increased damage occurring from future use of such amenities by area residents and the
general public is minimized and mitigated to the highest extent.
16. The Applicant shall incorporate certain design and construction techniques into any future design
development of the project, specifically incorporating site design, building and landscape standards within
any Preliminary Plan application and within the PUD Guide, to ensure that sound - abating construction
materials and techniques are used where necessary to mitigate potential noise impacts from Interstate 70
and/or Hwy. 6 on any units proposed in close proximity to such transportation corridors.
17. The Applicant shall work with Eagle County Staff and the Eagle River Watershed Council to identify and
incorporate, where applicable and practical, certain revisions to the overall design of the project for the
express purpose of improving the project's conformance with master plan goals and objectives to improve
ground water recharge and to reduce the amount of impervious surfaces, and specifically to incorporate
techniques and technologies such as those listed in the applicant's official response to the Edwards Area
Community Plan — Objectives — including but not limited to pervious paving materials, bio- swales, green
roof construction, rain gardens, "Distributed Stormwater Management Strategies" and rainwater harvesting.
18. The Applicant shall work with Eagle County Staff to identify and incorporate, where applicable and
practical, certain revisions to the overall design of the project for the express purpose of increasing the
project's Sustainable Communities Index score. Specifically, areas to focus on will include: site design,
solar orientation of buildings, on -site energy and agricultural (neighborhood gardens) production, energy
efficient building design and construction techniques, xeriscaping, reduced parking lot footprints, increased
diversity of convenience and neighborhood services uses, greater diversity in the types of housing, and
additional affordable housing (over that required as a minimum).
19. The Applicant is required to perform a detailed needs and market analysis demonstrating the financial
viability and compatibility of the project within the local conditions prior to or concurrent with any PUD
Preliminary Plan submittal. Such analysis will be undertaken to aid the Applicant, other local jurisdictions
and Eagle County accurately assess market viability and phasing plans necessary to ensure the continued
enhancement of the local economy.
20. Revise the plans to include provisions for an on -site recycling program for the PUD.
21. Revise the plans to include opportunities for senior services and children's day care as Eagle County Staff
requests and in response to market demand prior to any Preliminary Plan for PUD submittal. In so doing,
the Applicant shall work with child and senior care service providers, the Eagle County Housing and
Development Department, Health and Human Services Department and the Economic Council of Eagle
County to identify housing, business, service and amenity demand and use. Such uses, if any, are to be
incorporated into any PUD Preliminary Plan application.
22. The Applicant shall submit a Wetlands Delineation Plan and Mitigation Plan concurrent with any
Preliminary Plan for PUD application. Such plan shall indicate the extent of mapped jurisdictional
wetlands (pursuant to any Jurisdictional Delineation performed in accordance with Walsh Environmental
Scientists and Engineers, LLC.'s, Draft Eagle River Meadows Wetlands Action Plan, dated October 14,
2009), and shall include specific recommendations for wetlands avoidance and mitigation measures. Such
measures and the findings or recommendations of the Plan (as approved by the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers) shall be integrated into the design of any Preliminary Plan and may require the applicant to
revise the land plan to relocate and/or eliminate certain amounts of proposed residential density.
23. The Applicant shall prepare a detailed phasing plan prior to or concurrent with any Preliminary Plan for
PUD submittal. Such plan shall specifically address and identify the phased build -out of all proposed uses,
by planning area, within the PUD and shall be drafted to specifically correspond with anticipated traffic
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impacts thresholds associated with the PUD and related transportation and other off -site public
improvements required to mitigate identified impacts generated from the proposed PUD. The phasing plan
will address future Levels of Service (LOS) for any and all road segments and intersections that will be
directly impacted by the proposed PUD and will tie future impacts from the PUD to those on and off -site
infrastructure improvements directly linked to such impacts. Accordingly, the phasing plan shal address
the future responsibilities of the applicant /developer towards constructing certain improvements for the
express purpose of mitigating the PUD's direct impacts and insuring that Edwards Area intersection and
roadway segment LOS thresholds established by the Eagle County Land Use Regulations ( ECLURs), as
may be amended from time to time, are maintained in the future.
24. It is anticipated there will be a need to update and, specifically, to supplement the 2004 Edwards Area
Transportation/Highway 6 Corridor Feasibility Study (the "study ") with a transportation improvements
plan specific to the Edwards Area, prior to any vote by the Eagle County Board of County Commissioners
to approve any Preliminary Plan for the Eagle River Meadows PUD. Such plan will be completed for the
purpose of testing and revising transportation and land use assumptions used for the study and to aid the
Applicant, other local quasi - governmental entities, CDOT and Eagle County in accurately assessing the
need for and costs attributable to specific off -site transportation improvements in the Edwards planning
area associated, in part, with the phased build -out of the proposed Eagle River Meadows PUD. Prior to any
Preliminary Plan for PUD submittal, the Applicant shall work with the Eagle County Engineering
Department to quantify the scope, estimated costs and the level and extent of the Applicant's participation
(financial and otherwise) in such plan project to the extent such participation is directly related to the
Applicant's obligations pursuant to the ECLUR's to provide detailed traffic studies and analysis
quantifying the impacts from the proposed PUD, and proposing certain solutions, concurrent with
Preliminary Plan application.
25. The Applicant shall work with Staff, prior to or concurrent with any Preliminary Plan for PUD submittal, to
establish a schedule (subject to approval by Staff) and work plan regarding the Applicant's initiative, as
reported by the Applicant during the Planning Commission hearings on the matter of PDS -2313, to create a
special district(s) or similar legal bodies to levy a property assessment millage that may be needed to
mitigate impacts from the proposed PUD on transit, transportation, and affordable housing, prior to any
Preliminary Plan for PUD submittal. The creation of any special districts or mill levies for the project will
be the sole responsibility of the applicant.
26. The Applicant shall reimburse Eagle County for any and all reasonable expenses incurred by the Eagle
County Engineering Department for the purpose of contracting with a third party consultant to provide,
after a competitive bid process, at the County's sole discretion, expert review of the applicant's Preliminary
Plan for PUD traffic study. The selection of any such expert consultant hired by Eagle Count y for this
purpose will be at the sole discretion of Eagle County and paid for by the applicant.
27. The Applicant shall develop site specific architectural and landscape design guidelines (separate from the
PUD guide). Such standards, in accordance with the applicant's representations made during Sketch Plan
for PUD hearings held before the Eagle County Planning Commission, shall compliment and/or reflect the
intent — goals, policies and objectives - of the Urban Design Elements for the Edwards Core Area to the
highest extent practical, where appropriate, in context to the PUD and its natural and man -made
surroundings.
DISCUSSION:
Commissioner Stavney opened the meeting.
Mr. Hunn spoke about the meeting schedule and prior meetings. He believed that a lot of good public input
had been received. He presented a vicinity map, site plan, planning parcel map, explained the purpose of the sketch
plan, and the effect of sketch plan approval. He presented two options for development. Option A, would be "as
is" and Option B, would remove all development from the northern parcels.
Commissioner Stavney asked about option A and wondered what would be involved in the Planning
Commission granting an exception to the Edwards Community Plan.
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Mr. Hunn stated that the Planning Commission in their review would consider all 22 objectives of the
Edwards Community Plan and unless something substantial changed with the plan, he was not sure that the
outcome would be different. The developer would take that risk. He continued his presentation and elaborated on
the open space conservation vs. future development, wetlands delineation and a tributary restoration plan, the
affordable housing and flexible density, community connectivity, timing of option decision, concessions, and traffic
adjustments.
Commissioner Runyon asked if the parcels for the flex and resident occupied zoning had been identified.
Mr. Badger believed this could be worked out with staff so there was a quality mix. Depending on future
opportunities, there may be different scenarios.
Alex Potente stated that this subject had not been resolved at a staff level. He proposed free market stock.
The applicant would either build it or give it to someone else to build. Staff was willing to work creatively. He
believed it was important not to over burden this project, as they wanted it to succeed.
Commissioner Stavney wondered if anyone had figured out the construction value.
Lance Badger did not have those numbers. He believed that if the affordable housing were approved they
would find a participating group to work with them.
Mr. Potente believed the applicant needed some incentive to build the stock because the affordable housing
didn't make much money if any at all.
Mr. Hunn believed there were different ways to approach this issue. He spoke about community
connectivity. One of the benefits was the proposed pathways. He suggested that the path could be designed to
allow for emergency access. He stated that if the board made a decision on the file now it would give staff and the
applicant more clarity moving forward and would allow the applicant and staff to delve into a preliminary plan that
focused on the south. He spoke about the increased residential density on the south if development was pulled from
the north parcel. He spoke about the revised traffic estimates based on optional development plan.
Mr. Badger stated that what was driving a lot of the massing was the parking requirement. If he increased
density, he ended up pushing height. If he could reduce the parking requirement overall, then he could keep the
height right where it was.
Mr. Potente stated that Community Development, Housing, and Engineering were in the process of
reviewing the parking requirements.
Commissioner Stavney wanted to make sure there was sufficient parking for everyone.
Mr. Potente spoke about the Riverwalk surface parking and the problem with people living in the
residential units taking up retail parking spaces. He believed that this proposal had less retail and was a different
mix.
Mr. Badger stated that they did not increase the density because they wanted to avoid additional building
height.
Mr. Hunn stated that 240 units on 21 acres would be about 11.4 dwelling units per acre, 240 on 17 acres
was 14 dwelling units per acre. Overall, the project maintained a low density over the total acreage.
Commissioner Stavney asked about the massing from hwy 6.
Mr. Badger provided a site cross section that illustrated the elevation.
Commissioner Stavney believed the slide was helpful. Additionally, he had not heard testimony objecting
to massing on the south side.
Chairman Fisher stated that she was challenged with the way the conversation was going. She wondered if
dedicating the north parcel to the county would relieve the applicant of a certain amount or all of the housing
requirement.
Mr. Badger stated that they tried to address this issue as it related to the housing regulations. Their desire
was to build the entire t e e tyre development on both parcels.
Mr. Potente stated that from staffs perspective the applicant was proposing a fee simple transfer to the
county with the intent to make it open space or develop it as affordable housing in the future. The value of the
property was difficult to determine. He believed that these variables could be resolved at preliminary.
Commissioner Runyon asked Mr. Badger to clarify the formula for development and cost base.
Mr. Badger stated that the rule of thumb was 15% of the gross sales value of the finished product. If it
where not adjacent to infrastructure, roads and utilities it could be in the range of 8 -12 %. Timing also played a
factor. He provided an illustration of the mill levy structure and metro district structure for the property. He
believed there would also be a commercial and residential district. Based on 380 units and commercial units he
estimated an AV of 35 -36 million at build -out. Tax revenue would go to the property's district and after
maintenance costs, etc. he estimated a remaining $4.5 - 9.5 million dollars that could be applied infrastructure
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improvements. He believed there were many ways to provide some economic value back to the north parcel in
terms of a metro district structure.
Commissioner Stavney clarified that if the north parcel were deeded to the county and used for something
other than open space, the infrastructure could be phased, and the metro district could provide value through
bonding capacity.
Mr. Badger stated that the infrastructure costs would be approximately $6.2 million. The roundabout
would be around $2 million, and the infrastructure costs for the north parcel would be around $7.5 million. There
would never be enough to fund the entire infrastructure.
Commissioner Runyon wondered about the business plan based on the cost base.
Mr. Badger stated that the market was what it was and any business plan must be viable. He believed the
project would be a 10 -year build out and they would need to adapt to the changes in the economy.
Commissioner Stavney reviewed the conditions and believed the board was not ready to make a fmal
decision or make any changes to the suggested conditions.
Mr. Hunn explained the traffic related to option `B'. The bottom line meant a 10% reduction in trip
generation from site.
Chairman Fisher expressed concern for increased traffic on the south side and the direct connection to the
roundabout.
Mr. Potente believed it would be good to get some input from Lake Creek and Brett Ranch residents.
Commissioner Stavney believed that a vehicular connection through the development would have a
significant benefit but did not out way whether it should be developed or not.
Mr. Potente stated that the renter community was less vocal so as the county did own that properly the
county had some obligation to consider their input.
Chairman Fisher believed there were still a lot of components to cover.
Commissioner Runyon stated that he was in favor of option `B' and would prefer the northern parcel to be
put into open space or something along those lines.
Chairman Fisher stated that she would be challen . edto make any determination at this time. She was not
as convinced, as it was not her home community.. , ,' u ll iefer seeing both plans to the next level.
Mr. Badger wondered if there could be a Y "• c o.
'4 `with the board.
Commissioner Stavney stated that he was' on . a nd needed to absorb more information. He was
willing to hear more and believed moving forward w 1 It etch plan would provide more detail.
Mr. Potente believed it would be helpful touiitd what could be developed on the north side. He
proposed the possibility of county/housing authority taking title of the property, then selling it to the open space
fund, and using that money to acquire land elsewhere that would be more appropriate for the construction of
affordable housing.
Chairman Fisher asked Mr. Treu if a work session would be possible between the board and the applicant.
Mr. Treu stated that the board had to make its decision based on what was presented on the record so any
meetings would be a continuation of the sketch plan hearing.
Mr. Badger expressed his desire to get some direction from the board prior to submitting the preliminary
plan preferably in a work session type setting.
Mr. Treu stated that the regulation did not allow for that intermittent work session. He suggested calling
the meeting, the first preliminary plan hearing.
Chairman Fisher spoke about the concept of deeding the land over to the county. She was not prepared to
make the decision to move the file forward. She suggested that there be additional time scheduled for the next
meeting.
Mr. Badger presented a list of concessions for option `B'. He asked the board if there was anything in the
list that they were apposed to.
Commissioner Runyon stated that he supported the medical center but wanted some assurance that
development would happen and not just become an office park.
Mr. Badger believed the proposal was doable. He did not believe that there would be any changes to the
south side as proposed so tabling the file for a another week was acceptable.
Commissioner Runyon wanted a better feel for what the projects would look like.
Chairman Fisher asked about the option `B' would increase the density on the south parcel.
Mr. Hunn stated that the applicant would still seek additional density. He explained the land dedication
concept.
Commissioner Stavney stated that he was challenged with buying something the county could get: for free.
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Commissioner Runyon believed there was a lot of numbers that were lacking in the equation. It was
complicated and the board needed additional information.
Commissioner Stavney opened public comment.
Loni Chipman a 28 -year resident of Edwards expressed concern for the density of the project so close to a
county open space.
Kara Heide thanked the Planning Commission for their in -depth analysis and the County Commissioners
for soliciting public input. She stated that she had a number of calls from her neighborhood, which was Old
Edwards Estates, and they favored option `B'. She believed the anchor component was important and she was
eager to hear more.
Suzi Miller expressed support for small businesses but was concerned with the development being so close
to the preserve. She suggested that the board encourage the developer to provide a sort of transition zone to
preserve the sense of the open space.
Mr. Badger stated that this was a contextual project, one of the last big pieces in Edwards. There had been
a lot of time that went into this proposal. He believed it was a good project and responded well to the community
needs. He requested that the file be table to 2 pm on August 31, 2010.
Chairman Fisher moved to table the file until August 31, 2010 at 2 pm at the applicants' request.
Commissioner Runyon seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
There being no further business before the B • - . " .!° eeting was adjourned I • August 1 . 1 0.
Attest: �� �� : �a / ✓ 21
Clerk to the Board Qy , _ . *Chairman
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