HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 01/10/17 PUBLIC HEARING
January 10, 2017
Present: Jeanne McQueeney Chairman
Jillian Ryan Commissioner
Kathy Chandler-Henry Commissioner
Brent McFall County Manager
Bryan Treu County Attorney
Beth Oliver Deputy County Attorney
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:
Swearing in Ceremony for Newly Elected Officials
Frederick W. Gannett, Colorado Fifth Judicial District Judge
Judge Gannett swore in the newly elected officials:
Regina O'Brien,Clerk&Recorder
Teak Simonton,Treasurer
Kathy Chandler-Henry, Commissioner District 2
Jillian H.Ryan, Commissioner District 1
Commissioner Updates
Commissioner Chandler-Henry congratulated Andrew Owen on the arrival of his new baby. She thanked
all the snow plow drivers and safety workers. She encouraged everyone to drive safely during the winter and be
careful to look out for all the safety personal.
Chairman McQueeney stated that there would be a fundraiser to raise awareness for mental health to be
held at the Brush Creek Pavilion in Eagle on Saturday. Mental health was in a crisis as there were not enough
services across the country, including in Eagle County.
Commissioner Ryan congratulated the Solid Waste and Recycling Department for being awarded a grant
for nearly$50,000.
1. Regional Study to Optimize Waste Diversion
Jesse Masten, Solid Waste and Recycling
Mr.Masten stated that the Solid Waste and Recycling Department was awarded a grant for$49,384.20 to
conduct a five-county study. The state was trying to create regional studies and partnerships.
Consent Agenda
2. Second Amendment to Lease Agreement between Eagle County and Eagle Valley Child Care Association
Jan Miller,Facilities Management
3. Encroachment Easement Agreement between Eagle County and Robin Gersten
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Julie Pranger, Engineering
4. Agreement between Valley Settlement Project and Eagle County for Early Childhood Development
Opportunities and Community-Based Adult Education and Leadership Opportunities
Jone Bosworth,Human Services
5. Animal Shelter and Services Intergovernmental Agreement(IGA)with the Town of Avon
Nathan Lehnert,Animal Shelter and Services
6. Animal Shelter and Services Intergovernmental Agreement(IGA)with the Town of Gypsum
Nathan Lehnert,Animal Shelter and Services
7. Animal Shelter and Services Intergovernmental Agreement(IGA)with the Town of Minturn
Nathan Lehnert,Animal Shelter and Services
8. Animal Shelter and Services Intergovernmental Agreement(IGA)with the Town of Red Cliff
Nathan Lehnert,Animal Shelter and Services
9. Animal Shelter and Services Intergovernmental Agreement(IGA)with the Town of Vail
Nathan Lehnert,Animal Shelter and Services
10. Second Amendment to Agreement between Eagle County and DBT Transportation Services,LLC.For
Preventative Maintenance and On-Call Repair Services of Radio,Automated Weather Observing System
(AWOS),Back-Up Weather Systems and Navigational Aid Equipment Owned by the Eagle County
Regional Airport
Andy Solsvig, Airport
Commissioner Chandler-Henry moved to approve the Consent Agenda for January 10,2017, as presented.
Commissioner Ryan seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
Constituent Input
Chairman Jeanne McQueeney opened and closed citizen input, as there was none.
Business Items
11. Resolution 2017-001 Adopting the 2017 Annual Appointments
Aric Otzelberger,Administration
Mr. Otzelberger stated that the resolution was a statutory requirement. The document would be posted
online.
Commissioner Ryan moved to approve the resolution adopting the 2017 Annual Appointments.
Commissioner Chandler-Henry seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
Commissioner Ryan presented a gift to Chairman McQueeney for her leadership during the last year.
Commissioner Chandler-Henry thanked Chairman McQueeney for her service.
12. Resolution 2017-002 Adopting the Eagle County 2017 Legislative Policy Statement
Aric Otzelberger,Administration
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Mr. Otzelberger stated that the purpose of the document was to maintain an effective and responsive system
to taking and communicating official positions on legislation that would impact Eagle County. The Policy
Statement identified key areas and specific policies under the policy principals and under the issue areas. It also
outlined how the county reviews and communicates on house bills. The statement was similar to the 2016 policy
with some changes to Early Childhood Education,Public Health, Sustainability and Climate protection,Human
Services and Transportation.
Commissioner Chandler-Henry noted that the document included Housing as it was still a critical issue.
Chairman McQueeney encouraged everyone to view the document online
Commissioner Chandler-Henry moved to adopt the Eagle County 2017 Legislative Policy Statement
Chairman McQueeney seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
13. Resolution 2017-003 Concerning Appointments to the Board of Directors of the Golden Eagle Elderly
Housing Corporation
Jill Klosterman,Housing Director
Ms.Klosterman stated that resolution appointed Jeanne McQueeney,John Lewis,Carole Onderdonk,
Jennifer Wright, and Jill Klosterman as directors of the board of the Golden Eagle Elderly Housing Corporation.
Commissioner Chandler-Henry asked about the number of units at Golden Eagle and Seniors on Broadway.
Ms.Klosterman stated that there were 46 units at Golden Eagle and 14 at Seniors on Broadway.
Chairman McQueeney moved to approve the resolution concerning appointments to the Board of Directors
of the Golden Eagle Elderly Housing Corporation.
Commissioner Chandler-Henry seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
14. In the Matter of the Re-Certification of the Mill Levies for all Districts in the County of Eagle, State of
Colorado, for Fiscal Year 2017
John Lewis,Finance
Mr. Lewis stated that there was a tax coding error on one property that impacted nine districts. The re-
certification corrected the error.
Chairman McQueeney moved to approve the re-certification of the Mill Levies for all Districts in County
of Eagle, State of Colorado, for fiscal year 2017.
Commissioner Chandler-Henry seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
15. ZS-6354 -Gypsum Ranch Gravel Pit Special Use Permit
Bob Narracci,Planning
File Number: ZS-6354/Special Use Permit
Project Name: Gypsum Ranch Pit Special Use Permit
Location: 11151 Highway 6
Owner: Schmidt Ranch Partnership, LLP
Applicant: Oldcastle SW Group, Inc.
Representative: Jason Burkey/Peter Siegmund
Staff Planner: Bob Narracci,AICP
Staff Engineer: Taylor Ryan
Policy Issue: `Eagle County is Financially Sound', `Eagle County is a Great Place to Live for All', and `Eagle
County Promotes a Diverse and Resilient Economy'.
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Strategic Plan Objectives: `Leverage County resources through grants, outside funding sources and partnerships',
`Create communities with a sense of place',and `Promote business expansion,
retention and attraction'.
ECPC Recommendation: Unanimous approval with Conditions
Staff Recommendation: Approval with Conditions
I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
Request
The Applicant requests approval of a new Special Use Permit for the Gypsum Ranch Pit to accomplish four goals:
1) Expand mining and reclamation activities within the existing Gypsum Ranch Pit to facilitate removal of the
final berm along the north and west boundaries of the subject property, This berm is the resulting elevated
perimeter of the gravel extraction area that that was created over the course of operating the pit since 1997.
The elevated perimeter `berm' was left in-place, and has functioned to retain stormwater runoff within the
gravel mining area, and away from the Eagle River. This newly proposed mining area is referred to as
Phase 7. Mining of Phase 7 will in limited areas need to occur at 40 feet measured horizontally from the
high water mark of the Eagle River. As such, the applicant is requesting a variance from the Board of
County Commissioners to allow a 40 foot stream setback where 75 feet is presently required. In 1997
when the Gypsum Ranch Pit was first permitted,the minimum stream setback was 50 feet.
2) Additional mining and reclamation is proposed along the western property line to eliminate an earthen
berm that has resulted due to mining operations on both the subject property, and the adjacent property to
the west; which was a former gravel pit that is in process of reclamation (the Carol Ann Pit). Removal of
the berm will leave both properties in a more developable condition following reclamation of the Gypsum
Ranch Pit property.
3) Removal of the Special Use Permit expiration date; the currently active special use permit is set to expire
on December 31,2018.
4) Standardization of the facility operation hours.
Oldcastle SW Group, Inc. doing business as United Companies (United) acquired the Gypsum Ranch Pit from
Lafarge in 2013. In December 2015, United received county approval to progress mining activities into the final
approved Phases V and VI of the currently active special use permit and are presently in Phase V, moving into
Phase VI in 2017. The current Special Use Permit specifies an expiration date of December 31, 2018 for the
Gypsum Ranch Pit. United expects mining and reclamation to be complete in the Gypsum Ranch Pit sometime
between 2020 and 2025. This is an estimate based on the production and progress of mining in the pit over the past
several years. Due to the fact that gravel extraction can fluctuate widely depending on construction activity, it
would be best for United if the special use permit not be limited by a fixed expiration date, and rather allow United
to complete mining and reclamation activities in a manner responsive to market forces prior to sun setting the
Special Use Permit.
United is proposing to expand the mining and reclamation plan to facilitate the landowner's desires for the final
post-mining and reclamation condition of the property. It is proposed that the north side of the pit will be mined to
daylight out over the valley floor. During operations a short stormwater berm will be maintained to prevent runoff
from leaving the mined site. This berm is to be removed as part of the final reclamation. Expanding the mining
area to the north in this manner also necessitates an amendment to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining,
and Safety permit. United will apply for this amendment following county approval of this special use permit
application.
The Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife has reviewed the proposed expanded mining and reclamation plans,
and has expressed its support in a letter attached to this staff report.
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Bob and Carol Ann Newby, own the property adjacent to the west of the subject property, and are also partners in
the group which owns the Gypsum Ranch Pit properties. The Newbys request that United remove an existing berm
that presently separates the two sites. The Newby property is the site of a former, gravel pit(the Carol Ann Pit)that
is in process of being reclaimed. United proposes to mine the berm separating the Newby property from the
Gypsum Ranch Pit property under the approved terms and plans of the approved Gypsum Ranch Pit permit. During
mining, a stormwater berm will be left in place and will be between two and six feet tall, in order to ensure that no
stormwater discharges from the site. Once mining is completed in the remainder of the site, these stormwater
berms will be removed to provide the landowners with the final grade that they desire.
Lastly, United is requesting that the hours of operation for the Gypsum Ranch Pit be updated to be consistent with
approvals granted for other aggregate mining operations in the county, the most recent of which is the Fairgrounds
Gravel Pit Special Use Permit. The extended hours of operation would allow for the pit to operate extended hours
for large county, state or federal projects. United proposes the following language to be incorporated into this
special use permit:
"With prior administrative approval from the Planning Director through the Limited Review
process as set forth in the Eagle County Land Use Regulations, the Applicant may be permitted to
operate the concrete batch plant, and/or asphalt batch plant for extended hours, including
Sundays, for large county, state, or federal projects, not to exceed twenty (20) twenty-four (24)
hour periods in any calendar year of operation."
This will bring the Gypsum Ranch Pit hours of operation consistent with other aggregate operations approved by
Eagle County.
Process Overview
The purpose of a Special Use Review is as follows:
"Special Uses are those uses that are not necessarily compatible with the other uses allowed in a
zone district, but which may be determined compatible with the other uses allowed in the zone
district based upon individual review of their location, design, configuration, density and
intensity of use, and the imposition of appropriate conditions to ensure the compatibility of the
use at a particular location with surrounding land uses. All Special Uses shall meet the
standards set forth in this Section."-ECLURs p. 5-51
Pursuant to the ECLURs (p. 5-52), the Planning Commission's role during the review of the Special Use Permit is
as follows:
"After receipt of the Staff Report, the Planning Commission shall conduct a public hearing on an
application for a Special Use Permit. At the public hearing, the Planning Commission shall
consider the application, the relevant support materials, the Staff Report, and the public testimony
given at the public hearing. After the close of the public hearing, the Planning Commission, by a
majority vote of the quorum present, shall recommend to the Board of County Commissioners
either to approve, approve with conditions, or disapprove the application for a Special Use
Permit based on the standards in Section 5-250.B,Standards. (am.05/08/12)"
Conformance to Special Use Permit Standards
Staff believes the proposal meets, or can meet as conditioned, all applicable standards for a Consolidated Special
Use Permit. Therefore, staff is recommending approval, with conditions.
The following matrix summarizes staff's suggested special use permit findings. A more detailed discussion
regarding standards and suggested conditions of approval follow in Section III - Staff Findings and
Recommendation.
Standards for MI Special Uses Conformance Discussion
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Conformance with the Yes The PLUM Designation is `Community Buffer':
Comprehensive Plan: The proposed Per the Plan, "Mining for gravel has historically
Special Use shall be in substantial occurred on lands with a Community Buffer
conformance with the Eagle County designation, and several pits are in operation today.
Comprehensive Plan, Area Gravel extraction requires approval of a Special Use
Community Plans and any applicable Permit by the Board of County Commissioners.
ancillary County adopted documents Operations should be screened from public view, and
pertaining to natural resource should be closely monitored to assure compliance
protection, affordable housing, or with applicable State and County standards, as well
infrastructure management. as any conditions of approval. Upon termination of
mining, affected lands should be restored to natural
contours; top soiled and revegetated to natural
rangeland conditions."
Compatibility: The Special Use is Yes The mining operation is adjacent to the Eagle River;
generally compatible with the however, there is no indication that the Eagle River
existing and currently permissible has been compromised by mining activities on the
future uses of adjacent land and subject property since 1999.
other substantially impacted lands,
services, or infrastructure The Landscape Nursery provides a buffer at the east
improvements. terminus end of the mined area.
To the west and south of the pit are areas within the
Town of Gypsum ranging from residential (Stratton
Flats), undeveloped land (the reclaimed Carol Anne
Pit)and industrial uses.
Zone District Standards: The Yes, as Standards Specific to Aggregate
proposed Special Use shall comply conditioned Extraction/Processing Operations:
with the standards of the zone
district in which it is located and any 1. Environmental Impact Report: The
standards applicable to the environmental impact report included in the
particular use, as identified in original approval remains valid, and is
Section 3-310, Review Standards applicable to the proposed expanded mining
Applicable to Particular Residential, and reclamation activities.
Agricultural and Resource Uses; and
Section 3-330, Review Standards 2. Compliance with all applicable laws and
Applicable to Particular Commercial regulations of the county, state and federal
and Industrial Uses. governments, and shall not adversely affect
surface runoff, streamflow, or groundwater:
As part of the original approval, and each
subsequent special use permit approval for
the Gypsum Gravel Pit, the Department of
Environmental Health has required several
actions to ensure compliance with the 1997
approval as well as recommendations to
refine the original special use permit by
incorporating additional measures which
have mitigated impacts upon the surrounding
vicinity of the County given new growth in
the Gypsum vicinity that did not exist in
1997. Provisions required by the
Environmental Health Department for
operation of the Gypsum Gravel Pit shall be
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carried forward with this new Special Use
Permit. A condition of approval has been
suggested in this regard. In the attached
correspondence dated October 5, 2016 and
May 3, 2016, CPW offered the follawing
comments: "This is a letter of explanation
and support for the extraction of gravel from
Phase 7 of the Old Castle gravel mining plan
in the former LaFarge pit east of Gypsum on
the Eagle River."
3. Site Plan and Landscape Plan: The applicant
has submitted necessary documents. The
additional extraction and reclamation areas
are not to be landscaped and revegetated
until the reclamation plan is implemented.
4. Fabrication, Service and Repair: All
fabrication, service and repair activities
associated with the use shall be conducted
within a building (except for incidental
repair activities), unless the applicant
demonstrates that it is not practical to do so
and ensures that all impacts from outside
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activities are mitigated. United will comply
with this standard.
5. Storage All storage of materials associated
with the operation shall occur within a
building, or shall be obscured by an opaque
fence. United will comply with this
standard.
Through the review of this new Special Use Permit, it
has been determined that the aggregate mining
activities in Phase 7 will occur within 75 feet of the
Eagle River, and a stream setback variance has been
requested. Further,portions of Phase 2 and Phase 4,
are likewise within 75 feet of the high water mark of
the Eagle River. In order to memorialize the reduced
stream setbacks, as originally approved, and as
proposed for Phase 7, United is requesting that the
Board of County Commissioners grant a variance as
part of this special use permit to allow aggregate
extraction activities to occur 40 feet from the high
water mark of the Eagle River where 75 feet is
required.
Design Minimizes Adverse Impact: Yes As part of the original approval, and each subsequent
The design of the proposed Special special use permit approval for the Gypsum Gravel
Use shall reasonably avoid Pit, the Department of Environmental Health has
adverse impacts, including visual required several actions to ensure that the use
impacts of the proposed use on reasonably avoids adverse impacts, including visual
adjacent lands including trash, impacts of the proposed use on adjacent lands
traffic, service delivery, parking and including trash, traffic, service delivery,parking and
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loading, odors, noise, glare, and loading, odors, noise, glare and vibration, or
vibration, or otherwise create a otherwise create a nuisance. With each subsequent
nuisance. Special Use Permit approval for this gravel pit since
1997, Environmental Health has refined the original
special use permit by incorporating additional
measures which have mitigated impacts upon the
surrounding vicinity of the County given new growth
in the Gypsum vicinity that did not exist in 1997.
Provisions required by the Environmental Health
Department for operation of the Gypsum Gravel Pit
shall be carried forward with this new Special Use
Permit. A condition of approval has been suggested
in this regard.
Design Minimizes Environmental Yes As part of the original approval, and each subsequent
Impact: The proposed Special Use special use permit approval for the Gypsum Gravel
shall minimize environmental Pit, the Department of Environmental Health has
impacts and shall not cause required several actions to ensure that the use
significant deterioration of water and minimizes environmental impacts and shall not cause
air resources, wildlife habitat, scenic significant deterioration of water and air resources,
resources, and other natural wildlife habitat, scenic resources, and other natural
resources. resources. With each subsequent Special Use Permit
approval for this gravel pit since 1997,
Environmental Health has refined the original
special use permit by incorporating additional
measures which have mitigated impacts upon the
surrounding vicinity of the County given new growth
in the Gypsum vicinity that did not exist in 1997.
Provisions required by the Environmental Health
Department for operation of the Gypsum Gravel Pit
shall be carried forward with this new Special Use
Permit. A condition of approval has been suggested
in this regard.
Impact on Public Facilities: The Yes The subject property and existing Gypsum Gravel Pit
proposed Special Use shall be are served and will continue to be served by all
adequately served by public facilities necessary public facilities and services.
and services, including roads,
pedestrian paths, potable water and
wastewater facilities, parks, schools,
police and fire protection, and
emergency medical services.
Site Development Standards: The Yes All applicable Site Development Standards have been
proposed Special Use shall comply satisfied by the existing Gypsum Gravel Pit
with the appropriate standards in operations, and will continue to do so through
Article 4, Site Development completion of mining and reclamation of the site.
Standards.
Other Provisions: The proposed Not Applicable
Special Use shall comply with all
standards imposed on it by all other
applicable provisions of these Land
Use Regulations for use, layout, and
general development characteristics.
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II. BACKGROUND:
Proposal Overview
August 18, 1997: 10 year Special Use Permit approved by Board of County Commissioners (File No. ZS-
00003).
March 15, 1999: Phase I Permit to Proceed approved by Board of County Commissioners.
May 8,2001: Phase II Permit to Proceed approved by Board of County Commissioners.
March 14,2006: Phase III Permit to Proceed approved by Board of County Commissioners.
August 19,2008: Additional 10 year Special Use Permit approved by Board of County Commissioners (File
No. ZS-00173)
August 11,2009: Phase IV Permit to Proceed approved by Board of County Commissioners
August 30,2011: Phase V Permit to Proceed approved by Board of County Commissioners
January 5,2016: Phase VI Permit to Proceed approved by Board of County Commissioners (this is the final
approved phase of mining)
July 14,2016: Applicant initiates this Special Use Permit application.
As set forth above, the mining operations have been reviewed for conformance with the original 1997 approval six
times over the previous 19 years; each time the project passed inspection without remediation required.
This special use permit application represents the close-out plan for the Gypsum Gravel Pit. The applicant
estimates that mining activity and all reclamation will be completed sometime between 2020 and 2025. United is
requesting that this special use permit not be limited with an expiration date to allow the aggregate operation to
continue through reclamation, without the need for another special use permit to extend the life of the gravel pit.
United's goal is for the pit to be closed out no later than 2025; however, if demand wanes, it may not be practicable
to complete all mining and reclamation before end of year 2025.
On August 18, 1997 Eagle County approved a 10-year Special Use Permit for the Gypsum Ranch Sand & Gravel
Pit. The lifespan of the pit has always been anticipated and represented to support 20-years of mining operation.
The mining operation was designed to occur in six phases over the 20-year life of the pit.
Prior to proceeding from phase to phase, the applicant has had to demonstrate to Eagle County that the mining
operation has been adhering to the reclamation, erosion control and revegetation plans approved in 1997.
The mining phases commenced on the west end of the subject property and proceeded toward the east. Phase I,
located at the west end of the property, totaled approximately 25 acres and currently contains all operational
equipment and support facilities. Phase II of the project consisted of approximately 18 acres of land adjacent to the
east of Phase I. Phase III consisted of approximately 19 acres and is contiguous to Phase II. Phase IV consisted of
approximately 18 acres and is contiguous to Phase III. Phase V consists of 16 acres and is contiguous to Phase IV.
Phase VI is approximately 24 acres and is contiguous to Phase V. All six phases together cover 120-acres and
produce 3,900,000+cubic yards of material.
As the mining operations progressed towards the east, permanent (for the lifespan of the pit) operational facilities
will remain on the Phase I site including: Offices, scales, a Redi-mix concrete plant, an asphalt plant, parking,
maintenance areas, equipment storage and fuel storage. The crusher machinery and wash plant have moved
eastward with each phase so as to remain in close proximity to new resource as it is exposed. Overburden materials
have been stockpiled on future phase sites and were used to create screening berms surrounding active operations
areas. Stockpiled overburden is then relocated, as needed, to accommodate reclamation activities, which will be
concurrent with the progression from phase to phase. As detailed in the Phasing Reclamation and Operations Plan,
the operator is required to begin restoration and reclamation of the non-operating portions of previous phases within
one year of the approval of a new phase.
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Excavation of the pit occurred in such a manner as to leave a significant head wall, 20-30 feet tall on all sides of the
pit. This, in combination with the perimeter berming, has resulted in mining and processing activities that are, for
the most part, below grade and out of public view. Given the height of the head walls and the large volume of
excavation, storm water is completely contained within the pit which serves to protect the adjacent Eagle River.
United's goal is to remove the head wall/berm along the north and west sides of the gravel pit, as described above
in the Executive Summary. The total cubic yardage of additional aggregate anticipated from the expanded mining
areas is 200,000 cubic yards.
The demand for gravel product remains strong. This limited resource is located only in certain areas of the County
and the subject property generates quality material in a central location.
All required facilities are currently in place. Including: accel/decel lanes on U.S. Hwy 6; a concrete batch plant;
area for installation of an asphalt batch plant; truck washing area; equipment maintenance facility; a truck scale;
office space for administration of the mine;restrooms for the workers; and irrigation ditches.
All conditions of the regulations and the 1997 Special Use Permit have been met or will be further refined via this
application.
III. STAFF FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATION:
Staff is recommending approval of this application,with conditions.
Staff believes the proposal, as conditioned meets all applicable standards for a Special Use Permit, as well as those
standards specific to gravel extraction.
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Special Use Standards
Specifically, the following excerpts from Section 5-250 B — Standards, ECLURs provide direction regarding the
intent and necessary findings for the approval of any Special Use Review, as well as the specific standards for
Accessory Dwelling Units:
1. Consistent with Comprehensive Plan. The proposed Special Use shall be in substantial
conformance with the Eagle County Comprehensive Plan, Area Community Plans and any
applicable ancillary County adopted documents pertaining to natural resource protection,
affordable housing, or infrastructure management.
Staff Response: The FLUM Designation is `Community Buffer': Per the Plan,"These are lands,both
public and private,that are located between existing towns and community centers which provide
undeveloped visual breaks along the County's main development corridors. Residential densities within the
Community Buffer designation are limited to one primary residence and one accessory dwelling unit per 35
acres, although clusters of smaller previously approved residential lots exist. Agricultural lands and lands of
significant visual,cultural or environmental quality should be protected. Additional residential
development of densities greater than one(1)unit per 35 acres,if approved, should be clustered,with homes
positioned in a manner consistent with the intent and purpose of this land use designation and the written
policies of this Comprehensive Plan. Commercial or retail uses are not associated with the community
buffer designation, as ample community services should be available in nearby communities. Lands with
this designation encompass significant sections of the County's major rivers and associated riparian
environments. The preservation of wildlife habitat should be given a high priority on lands designated as
Community Buffer. Obtaining public access to streams and rivers is an appropriate endeavor, so long as
sensitive lands and ecosystems are protected. Recreational uses should otherwise be limited to those of a
dispersed, low impact nature.
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"Mining for gravel has historically occurred on lands with a Community Buffer designation,and several pits
are in operation today. Gravel extraction requires approval of a Special Use Permit by the Board of County
Commissioners. Operations should be screened from public view, and should be closely monitored to
assure compliance with applicable State and County standards, as well as any conditions of approval. Upon
termination of mining, affected lands should be restored to natural contours;top soiled and revegetated to
natural rangeland conditions."
2. Compatibility. The Special Use is generally compatible with the existing and currently permissible
future uses of adjacent land and other substantially impacted land, services, or infrastructure
improvements.
Staff Response: The mining operation is adjacent to the Eagle River; however,there is no
indication that the Eagle River has been compromised by mining activities on the site to date. The
Landscape Nursery provides a buffer at the east terminus end of the area to be mined. To the west
and south of the pit are areas within the Town of Gypsum ranging from yet to be constructed
residential as well as industrial uses.
3. Zone District Standards. The proposed Special Use shall comply with the standards of the zone
district in which it is located and any standards applicable to the particular use, as
identified in Section 3-310, Review Standards Applicable to Particular Residential, Agricultural
and Resource Uses and Section 3-330, Review Standards Applicable to Particular Commercial and
Industrial Uses.
Staff Response:
P. Exploration,Extraction and Processing Operations.
1. Environmental Impact Report. An applicant proposing an exploration, extraction, or
processing operation shall submit an Environmental Impact Report. The Report shall be
prepared in accordance with Section 4-460, Environmental Impact Report, of these
Regulations, by technically qualified professional experts. Included in the Report shall be
a depiction of the location, scope and design of the proposed use, and an explanation of its
operational characteristics and impacts. The requirement to submit said Report may be
waived by the Planning Commission. The environmental impact report included in the
original approval remains valid.
2. Compliance. Proof shall also be submitted that the proposed use shall be designed and
operated in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations of the county, state and
federal governments and shall not adversely affect:
a. Water. Existing lawful use of water, through depletion or pollution of surface
runoff, streamflow or groundwater;
b. Adjacent Land Uses. Adjacent land uses,through generation of vapor,dust, smoke,
noise, glare,vibration, or other emanations; or
c. Wildlife. Wildlife and domestic animals, through creation of hazardous attractions
to wildlife, impacts on wildlife habitat, or patterns, or other means.
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The Department of Environmental Health has applied conditions of approval to the Gypsum Ranch
Gravel Pit since its original Special Use Permit approval in 1997. Each time the Special Use
Permit has been renewed, Environmental Health provided additional recommended actions, based
on experience, to ensure compliance with the 1997 approval as well as recommendations to refine
the original special use permit. This was accomplished by incorporating additional measures
which mitigate impacts upon the surrounding vicinity of the County given new growth in the
Gypsum vicinity that did not exist in 1997. All provisions set forth by the Environmental Health
Department throughout the life of the Gypsum Ranch Gravel Pit shall be carried forward with this
new Special Use Permit as conditions of approval.
The attached letters from Colorado Parks and Wildlife indicate support for the proposal to expand
mining and reclamation activities as set forth in the application. CPW anticipates that day lighting
of the pit with the associated stormwater control measures that are planned would result in minimal
disturbance to habitat or wildlife". Further, "Assuming the applicant avoids wetland and riparian
habitats to the greatest extent possible and adheres to the Army Corps of Engineers requirements,
CPW does not anticipate any adverse impacts to local wildlife or their habitats".
3. Site Plan. On parcels of land greater than one (1) acre, a detailed site plan shall be
submitted, including landscaping sufficient to meet the standards found in Section 4-230,
Landscaping Design Standards and Materials. Security may be required to guarantee
landscaping, drainage, and erosion control, if deemed necessary by the Board of County
Commissioners, and as specified in Section 4-240, Installation and Maintenance
Requirements.
The applicant has submitted necessary documents.
4. Fabrication, Service and Repair. All fabrication, service and repair activities associated
with the use shall be conducted within a building (except for incidental repair activities),
unless the applicant demonstrates that it is not practical to do so and ensures that all
impacts from outside activities are mitigated.
5. Storage. All storage of materials associated with the operation shall occur within a
building, or shall be obscured by an opaque fence.
Through the review of this new Special Use Permit, it has been determined that the aggregate
mining activities in Phase 7 will occur within 75 feet of the Eagle River, and a stream setback
variance has been requested. Further, portions of Phase 2 and Phase 4, are likewise within 75 feet
of the high water mark of the Eagle River. In order to memorialize the reduced stream setbacks,
and as proposed for Phase 7, United is requesting that the Board of County Commissioners grant a
variance as part of this special use permit to allow aggregate extraction activities to occur 40 feet
from the high water mark of the Eagle River where 75 feet is required. It is important to note that
the vertical separation of the stream to the 40 foot limit of disturbance is between 20 feet to 30 feet
higher in elevation.
4. Design Minimizes Adverse Impact. The design of the proposed Special Use shall reasonably
avoid adverse impacts, including visual impacts of the proposed use on adjacent lands including
trash, traffic, service delivery,parking and loading, odors, noise, glare, and vibration, or otherwise
create a nuisance.
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Staff Response: The Department of Environmental Health has applied conditions of approval to
the Gypsum Ranch Gravel Pit since its original Special Use Permit approval in 1997. Each time
the Special Use Permit has been renewed, Environmental Health provided additional recommended
actions, based on experience, to ensure compliance with the 1997 approval as well as
recommendations to refine the original special use permit. This was accomplished by
incorporating additional measures which mitigate impacts upon the surrounding vicinity of the
County given new growth in the Gypsum vicinity that did not exist in 1997. All provisions set
forth by the Environmental Health Department throughout the life of the Gypsum Ranch Gravel Pit
shall be carried forward with this new Special Use Permit as conditions of approval.
5. Design Minimizes Environmental Impact. The proposed Special Use shall minimize
environmental impacts and shall not cause significant deterioration of water and air resources,
wildlife habitat, scenic resources, and other natural resources.
Staff Response: The Department of Environmental Health has applied conditions of approval to
the Gypsum Ranch Gravel Pit since its original Special Use Permit approval in 1997. Each time
the Special Use Permit has been renewed, Environmental Health provided additional recommended
actions, based on experience, to ensure compliance with the 1997 approval as well as
recommendations to refine the original special use permit. This was accomplished by
incorporating additional measures which mitigate impacts upon the surrounding vicinity of the
County given new growth in the Gypsum vicinity that did not exist in 1997. All provisions set
forth by the Environmental Health Department throughout the life of the Gypsum Ranch Gravel Pit
shall be carried forward with this new Special Use Permit as conditions of approval.
Staff believes the proposal substantially meets this standard.
6. Impact on Public Facilities. The proposed Special Use shall be adequately served by public
facilities and services, including roads, pedestrian paths,potable water and wastewater facilities,
parks, schools,police and fire protection, and emergency medical services.
Staff Response:
Staff believes the proposal meets this standard.
7. Site Development Standards. The proposed Special Use shall comply with the appropriate
standards in Article 4, Site Development Standards.
Staff Response: In response to the Engineering and Environmental Health Departments' referral
comments, it has been determined that the aggregate mining activities in Phase 7 will occur within
75 feet of the Eagle River, and a stream setback variance has been requested accordingly. Further,
portions of Phase 2 and Phase 4, are likewise within 75 feet of the high water mark of the Eagle
River. In order to memorialize the reduced stream setbacks, as have resulted since 1999, and as
proposed for Phase 7, United is requesting that the Board of County Commissioners grant a
variance as part of this special use permit to allow aggregate extraction activities to occur no closer
than 40 feet from the high water mark of the Eagle River where 75 feet is required. The vertical
separation between the river and the 40 foot extent of mining activity from the high water mark is
between 20 feet to 30 feet higher in elevation.
The Colorado Department of Transportation did not provide comment regarding this proposed
special use permit. With prior special use permit approvals, CDOT responded with"no comments"
because the current access permit is still valid.
8. Other Provisions. The proposed Special Use shall comply with all standards imposed on it by all
other applicable provisions of these Land Use Regulations for use, layout, and general
development characteristics.
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Staff Response:
Staff believes the proposal meets this standard; no"other"provisions have been identified.
V. SITE DATA:
Surrounding Land Uses/Zoning:
All lots within Pleasant Valley Ranch Subdivision as well as surrounding lands within Eagle County are zoned
Resource.
Land Use Zoning
North: Colorado Parks and Wildlife Resource Interstate-70 Right-of-Way Resource
Gypsum Ponds
Stratton Flats Vacant
South: Town of Gypsum Residential Town of Gypsum commercial
South Town of Gypsum Eagle County Airport Unincorporated Storage Industrial
Yard
East: Town of Gypsum Residential/Nursery
West: Reclaimed Gravel Pit Resource
Existing Zoning: Resource
Proposed Zoning: Resource
Current Development: Aggregate Mining and Processing Since 1999
Site Conditions: Active aggregate mine.
210.60-acres.
Total Land Area: Acres: PPX area Square feet: NA
_ acres
Total Open Space: N/A
Water: Public: N/A Private: NA
Sewer: Public: N/A Private: NA
Access: Via Highway 6
VI. REFERRAL RESPONSES:
This application was referred to the following internal and external agencies for review and comment:
• Eagle County Airport
• Eagle County Animal Services
• Eagle County Assessor's Office
• Eagle County Attorney's Office
• Eco Trails
• Eagle County Engineering Department
• Eagle County Department of Environmental Health
• Eagle County Housing Department
• Eagle County Road and Bridge Department
• Eagle County Sheriff's Office
• Noxious Weed Program Manager
• Eagle River Watershed Council
• CDOT Local Residency
• CDOT Grand Junction Offices
• Colorado Division of Minerals and Geology
• Colorado Parks and Wildlife
• Natural Resource Conservation Service
• US Army Corps of Engineers
• Gypsum FPD
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• Ambulance District
• Holy Cross Electric
• Union Pacific Railroad
• NWCCOG
• Stratten Flats HOA
• Town of Gypsum
• Town of Eagle
As of this writing,the following responses have been received:
Gypsum Fire Protection District: In the attached email dated September 39, 2016, Chief Kirkland
indicated that the District has no comments.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife: In the attached correspondence dated October 5, 2016 and May 3, 2016,
CPW offered the following comments: "This is a letter of explanation and support for the extraction of
gravel from Phase 7 of the Old Castle gravel mining plan in the former LaFarge pit east of Gypsum on the
Eagle River. Old Castle and the property owner have taken a progressive, at your behest, approach and has
asked the CPW to meet on site, preview the property and make recommendations on the removal of the
existing berm between the current excavated pit and the Eagle River valley floor. This involvement at an
early stage of the planning allows potential impacts to be avoided or mitigated. The removal of the existing
berm to an elevation varying between 20 to 30 feet off the current existing pasture area or floodplain,while
removing some older vegetation, will have minimal impacts on the wildlife resource utilizing the area.
Much of the removal will involve standing dead trees which were not observed to be in use for nesting,
roosting or perching on any of the site visits. Other standing dead and living trees will be untouched and
will offer wildlife these opportunities. The day lighting of the pit with the associated stormwater control
measures that are planned should result in minimal disturbance to habitat or wildlife". Further, "Assuming
the applicant avoids wetland and riparian habitats to the greatest extent possible and adheres to the Army
Corps of Engineers requirements, CPW does not anticipate any adverse impacts to local wildlife or their
habitats".
Northwest Colorado Council of Governments: In the attached email dated October 17, 2016,NWCCOG
indicated `no comment', other than recommending that the county include a condition of approval that the
Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety reclamation plan be implemented per the State's
specifications. This will provide the County with an independently enforceable condition for reclamation
in case DRMS does not perform.
Environmental Health Department: In the attached email dated October 20, 2016, two comments were
provided: 1) With the additional phases of mining and reclamation proposed, please provide operation
details to recognize compliance with performance standards moving forward from the original special use
approval for ZS-0003 as it pertains to updated environmental protection plans, addressing but not limited to
dust suppression, erosion control and stormwater management, spill prevention and countermeasures
control (which addresses hazardous materials issues), and lighting; 2) Also, according to the most recent
plans provided, it appears that operations encroach within the required 75-foot stream setback. Please
demonstrate if these limits of disturbance were in place prior to the county's adoption of the 75 foot stream
setback.
Engineering Department: In the attached email dated October 20, 2016, the Engineering Department
indicated that, "The comments provided by Adam (Environmental Health Department) also address
Engineering's concerns, namely the encroachment into the stream setback. We would like to understand if
the limit of disturbance is moving closer to the Eagle River with the new Phase 7. In a couple of locations
on the plans provided,the limit of disturbance is within 75 feet of the river and within 40 feet of the river at
the closest."
EcoTrails: In the attached email dated October 21, 2016 from Ellie Caryl, no comment has been offered,
as it is not timely to construct a regional trail through an active gravel pit.
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US Army Corps of Engineers: In the attached email dated November 3, 2016, the following comments
were provided, "The Corps of Engineers'jurisdiction within the study area is under the authority of Section
404 of the Clean Water Act for the discharge of dredged or fill material into the waters of the United States.
Waters of the United States include, but are not limited to, rivers, perennial or intermittent streams, lakes,
ponds, wetlands, vernal pools, marshes, wet meadows, and seeps. Project features that result in the
discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States will require Department of the Army
authorization prior to starting work.
If project features would result in the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States,
the applicant should prepare a wetland delineation, in accordance with the `Minimum Standards for
Acceptance of Preliminary Wetlands Delineations' and `Final Map and Drawing Standards for the South
Pacific Division Regulatory Program' under `Jurisdiction' on our website at the address below, and submit
it to this office for verification. A list of consultants that prepare wetland delineations and permit
application documents is also available on our website at the same location.
The range of alternatives considered for this project should include alternatives that avoid impacts to
wetlands or other waters of the United States. Every effort should be made to avoid project features which
require the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States. In the event it can be
clearly demonstrated there are no practicable alternative to filling waters of the United States, mitigation
plans should be developed to compensate for the unavoidable losses resulting from project
implementation".
Town of Gypsum: In the attached email dated November 4, 2016, the Town indicated that they do not
have any comments on this application. The Town did anticipate this application coming forward.
Eagle River Watershed Council: In the attached letter dated December 2, 2016, the ERWC offered the
following observations and recommendations:
"We have reviewed the SUP Modification Application and associated documents and offer the
following comments, which are limited to the categories of water quality protection and aquatic-
dependent wildlife concerns:
Impacts to riparian zones and aquatic habitat
We share the concerns of Adam Palmer and Taylor Ryan with Eagle County regarding activities
during Phases 2 and 7 in the vicinity of Cross Section B. Based on the cross section figures on Page
7 of the Maps packet, the Phase 2 and 7 boundary appears to be within 40 feet of the 100 year
floodplain and 50 feet of the ordinary stream elevation. Although sparsely vegetated and sometime
cliff-laden hillside in this area it is unlikely to be jurisdictionally considered in any wetland or
riparian zone, the linear distance and limited vegetation present nonetheless provide important
runoff buffering and bank stability functions to the river.
In addition, the river habitat immediately below this terrace slope is characterized by an
abandoned meander/oxbow and springs discharge, creating a zone of important and sensitive
riverine habitat for aquatic species. Groundwater inputs to streams provide mediation to water
temperature extremes - cooling stream temperatures during critical low flow summer periods, and
warming temperatures during harsh winter periods. Both of these functions create important
seasonal thermal refugia for aquatic species including wild and native trout. Shallow backwater
habitats such as the abandoned meander immediately below the terrace and cross section B also
serve as vital habitat during early life stages of fish for resting, feeding, and avoidance of
predation.
ERWC recognizes that although the SUP Modification likely attains the letter of the law in terms of
County-required stream protection and setbacks, that additional voluntary precautions could be
offered by United or made in the SUP approval by Eagle County to ensure the avoidance of fine
sediment-laden runoff in this zone, and to either maintain or improve site buffering capacity
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supplied by what little existing vegetation and natural slope form currently exist on the terrace
slope. This area constitutes approximately 500-600 linear feet of the berm referenced for Phase 7.
As an example of options for enhanced site runoff mitigation or improved buffering capacity in this
narrow zone, a small amount of subtly contoured berm could remain (i.e.: incomplete resource
recovery during berm removal), or subtle final site contouring away from the terrace rim in this
zone could prevent focused runoff to the river prior to full site revegetation.
Impacts to wildlife
According to CPW Species Activity Map spatial datasets, the 1.5 mile reach of the Eagle River
north of and adjacent to the site is utilized for the following wildlife activities:
• River Otter Overall Range
• River Otter Winter Range
• Bald Eagle Nesting(Active)
• Bald Eagle Roosting(Active)
• Bald Eagle Summer Forage
• Bald Eagle Winter Range
• Osprey Nest Sites (Active)
• Great Blue Heron Foraging Area
• Mule Deer Winter Range
• Mule Deer Severe Winter Range
United has submitted that modifications requested in the new SUP are within the scope and intent
of the original and ongoing plans for the mining operation. ERWC largely agrees with this, with
some minor caveats. Information contained in the original 1997 Environmental Impact Report
(EIR) prepared by Western Ecological Resource acknowledged ungulate impacts but identified
raptor impacts a more significant result of mining operations. The EIR stated at the time "there
are no known high use or preferred areas, and no known bald eagle nests or communal roosts in
the vicinity of Schmidt Ranch". In the intervening time period this description has become
factually incorrect and the area is no home to several active nesting Eagle pairs, which are
regularly observed from 1-70 across from the site during the year.
ERWC recognizes that clearly these species have come to reside in the area with a large degree of
habituation to existing operations. We also recognize that CPW has already provided positive
support for the SUP modification and expressed a finding of no significant wildlife impacts.
However, United has portrayed the requested changes essentially as a continuance of existing
operations, ERWC finds that the request for extended hours of operation actually represents a de
facto expansion of operational activities creating new impacts beyond the existing daily and
seasonal time footprint of operations. Seasonal and daily extensions to operational hours may or
may not negatively impact aquatic-dependent wildlife such as bald eagles to a greater level than
current operations, and this should be recognized during the County's consideration of the SUP
modifications. To that end, it may be helpful if CPW could provide additional information on
whether or not the extended seasonal and daily operating hours are likely to impact these wildlife
types."
Per the Eagle County Land Use Regulations,the Colorado Parks and Wildlife is the County's expert review
agency for all matters pertaining to wildlife and wildlife habitat. CPW does not lightly comment on land
use proposals that have the potential to compromise either wildlife or its habitats; in this instance, CPW
does indeed support this proposed Special Use Permit application based upon on-site inspection with the
applicant. As such, CPW's comments regarding wildlife are the comments upon which staff has to rely.
The referenced 50 foot separation of mining activities to the high water mark of the Eagle River is in
keeping with the minimum setback requirement in place at the time when the Gypsum Ranch Pit was
approved in 1997. The county does not require additional setback from the outer edge of the 100 year
floodplain boundary. Development activities may occur up to the outer edge of the 100 year floodplain, as
long as that outer edge is still at least 50 feet from the high water mark of the river. In this instance,
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however; United is requesting a variance to both memorialize a reduced stream setback for portions of the
already mined areas(formerly mined by LaFarge), as well as, for Phase 7, as proposed. The stream setback
reduction request is 40 feet from the high water mark of the Eagle River where 75 feet is required.
Regarding the requested extended hours of operation, the county has approved and implemented the same
language on other gravel pit operations throughout the county expressly for the purpose of allowing
aggregate processing to occur during evenings and weekends in support large county, state or federal
projects. In the last several years, CDOT strongly prefers performing road maintenance/paving operations
during evening and nighttime hours, when the aggregate processing facilities are closed. Thus far, this
provision has been implemented only once by Oldcastle during nighttime road improvements to Eby Creek
Road in the Town of Eagle,and did not cause a nuisance.
VII. PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION:
Section 5-250, E— Conditions and Restrictions on a Special Use Permit is pertinent to any consideration of
conditional approval,wherein:
"The Planning Commission may recommend and the Board of County Commissioners may, in
approving any Special Use Permit, impose such restrictions and conditions on such approval, the
proposed use, and the premises to be developed or used pursuant to such approval, as it
determines are required by the general purposes, goals, objectives, and policies of the
Comprehensive Plan, the FL UM of the Comprehensive Plan, and these Land Use Regulations, to
prevent or minimize adverse effects from the proposed development on surrounding land uses and
on the general health, safety, and welfare of the County. The County shall be authorized to set
limits on the length of any Final or Consolidated Special Use Permit that it issues and to obtain
assurances that the ongoing operation of the use will comply with all of the applicant's
representations and all conditions of approval, including, but not limited to, requiring an annual
compliance review. All conditions imposed in any Special Use Permit, with the exception of
conditions made applicable to such approval by the express terms of these Land Use Regulations,
shall be expressly set forth in the Special Use Permit."
On Wednesday December 21, 2016, the Eagle County Planning Commission heard this special use
permit application and unanimously recommended approval. The following comments and
additional suggested condition of approval were provided:
Commissioner Warner: Is there a future date United would be comfortable with to expire this
special use permit? Possibly 2030 would afford enough time for United to complete mining
operations? The applicant agreed that mining activity might be complete by end of year 2030, and
that the reclamation stage could take an additional two years; end of year 2032.
Commissioner Brock: Through the hearing, focused on the proximity of proposed Phase 7 mining
activities relative to the oxbow in the Eagle River, which is the pinch point between mining
activities and the river; thereby necessitating the requested 40 foot variance.
Commissioner Warner: Is more comfortable with a 2030 expiration of mining activities in the
Gypsum Ranch Pit, with an additional two year allowance, until end of year 2032, to complete site
reclamation.
Commissioners Brock and Warner: Regarding the requested reduced stream setback, they
understand the purpose and intent of the 75 foot stream setback specified by the ECLUR's;
however,understanding that the vertical separation between the high water mark of the Eagle River
and the northernmost extent of proposed mining activities is still a minimum of 20 to 30 feet above
the level of the Eagle River is the key. This is also well outside of the 100 year floodplain.
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They did discuss the possibility of a major flood event, greater than the 100 year flood event, and it
was determined that if the water ever breaches a 30 foot height above the level of the Eagle River,
then we will all have much greater issues to deal with than sediment from the mine entering the
Eagle River.
DISCUSSION:
Commissioner Ryan disclosed her relationship with Taylor Ryan,the staff engineer.
Bob Narracci presented the request.The applicant wished to expand mining and reclamation activities
within the existing Gypsum Ranch Pit. Additional mining and reclamation was proposed along the western
property line to eliminate an earthen berm that has resulted due to mining operations. The applicant requested that
the Special Use Permit expiration date be removed as well as standardization of the facility operation hours.He
presented some background on the mining operations. The operations had been reviewed for conformance six times
over the previous 19 years and passed inspection without remediation required.The applicant was proposing to
expand the mining and reclamation plan to facilitate the landowners' desires for final post-mining and reclamation
condition of the property. During operations a short stormwater berm would be maintained to prevent runoff and
be removed as part of the fmal reclamation. The Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife had reviewed the
proposed expanded mining and reclamation plans and had expressed support in a letter included in the staff report.
The adjacent property owners west of the property were also partners in the group which owned the pit properties.
The current permit expiration date was December 31,2018. Mr.Narracci showed photos of the property and
reviewed the referral responses and special use permit standards. The Eagle County Planning Commission heard
the application and unanimously recommended approval with conditions.
Ben Langenfeld,P.E.with Oldcastle Group explained the key points of the changes in the application. If
approved,Phase 7 would remove the berm material that currently existed, change the hours of operation, and
remove the expiration date. There would not be an increase in production or an increase in operations,just an
addition of more ground material that would be processed. In order to remove the berm in a reasonable manner,
along the north they would need to get within 40 feet of the high water mark of the Eagle River. The Eagle
Watershed Council commented about the set back and the risks. The hours of operation would facilitate public
works operations.
Chairman McQueeney wondered about the typical timeline for mining operations.
Mr.Narracci stated that he'd seen gravel pits range from 10—20 years or better. He believed that what was
proposed by the Planning Commissioner was reasonable which was 2030-32,thus allowing time for reclamation.
Commissioner Chandler-Henry wondered if the additional time was needed because there was more
material than expected.
Jason Burkey with Oldcastle Materials stated that the market had changed significantly. They were
anticipating a steady growth.
Chairman McQueeney asked if the concerns from the Watershed Council had been met.
Mr.Narracci stated that it came down to the vertical separation from the river. If there was a 100 year
flood,there may be issues.
Mr. Langenfeld stated that the stormwater berm addressed the issue,keeping any potential water impacts in
the pit.
Commissioner Chandler-Henry asked if the reclamation included weed control and reseeding and who
would be monitoring the reclamation of the pit.
Mr. Burkey stated that Eagle County and the Division of Mining and Safety would be involved in
oversight.
Commissioner Chandler-Henry asked about the administrative review for extended hours and whether it
was a per incident review.
Mr.Narracci stated that the applicant would request specific dates for extended hours.
Commissioner Ryan opened and closed public con ine t,
Mr.Narracci reviewed the standards of approval. Staff believed the proposal met all the applicable
standards for a Special Use Permit, as well as the standards specific io gravel extraction.
Chairman McQueeney believed the applicant had been,woiking proactively. Her only concern was for
putting a bookend on the time frame.
Mr. Burkey stated that they would not be opposed to an administrative review. He suggested 2028 with a
two-year extension for reclamation and administrative review.
Chairman McQueeney believed an administrative review was reasonable.
Mr.Narracci stated that if staff was not comfortable he would be obliged to come before the board.
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Commissioner McQueeney moved to approve File No. ZS-6354, incorporating staffs findings and staff's
suggested conditions, because the application, as conditioned, meets all of the standards for approval of a Special
Use Permit.
1. Except as otherwise modified by this development permit, all material representations made by the
Applicant in this application and in any public meeting shall be adhered to and considered conditions of
approval.
2. All environmental controls established through the original 1997 Special Use Permit approval (Special
Use Permit ZS-00003),as well as,the revised 2008 Special Use Permit(Special Use Permit ZS-00173),
shall be carried forward with this Special Use Permit, Eagle County File No. ZS-6354 and remain in
full force and effect throughout the balance of aggregate extraction and site reclamation activities.
Prior to progressing mining operations into the new Phase 7, United shall first receive the necessary
compliance review for completed mining Phases 1-6, utilizing the compliance checklist that was
created with the 1997 approval and which has been utilized throughout the life of the Gypsum Ranch
Pit.
3. Prior to disturbance of areas within 75' of the high water mark of the Eagle River and removal of berm
material, the applicant shall provide stormwater management plan details and a cross section
demonstrating water quality and riparian areas are protected through proposed phases and reclamation
to the satisfaction of the Environmental Health Director.
4. Portions of Phase 2 and Phase 4, are within 75 feet of the high water mark of the Eagle River. In order
to memorialize the reduced stream setbacks, as have resulted through the life of the gravel pit, and as
proposed moving forward for Phase 7; the Board of County Commissioners hereby grants a variance as
part of this special use permit to allow aggregate extraction activities to occur no closer than 40 feet
from the high water mark of the Eagle River where 75 feet is required as set forth in the application.
5. Road Impact Fees will be required for the Phase 7 mining area. The Road Impact Fee amount is to be
generated by the Impact Fee Administrator pursuant to Chapter 2, Article 4, Division 4-700, Impact
Fees and Land Dedication Standards, Section 4-710, Road Impact Fees, F.2.
6. The Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety reclamation plan, as amended, shall be implemented
per the State's specifications
7. All aggregate extraction activities in the Gypsum Ranch Pit shall be completed by December 31, 2030.
All post-mining reclamation activities shall be completed by December 31,2032.
Commissioner Chandler-Henry seconded the motion. The vote was declared unanimous.
toe,
4
There being no further business bd..,it :�' °�' d ilh meeting was .-'/e until J. 17,2017.
Attest:/ _ Alo
1 to the Board merman
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