HomeMy WebLinkAboutcoa.lu.pu.Victoria Square. Agate court 025-84-85 ( ac),,),Dl1_:, l_i: h
CITY OF ASPEN
130 south galena street
aspen , colorado 81611
303-925 -2020
December 17, 1984
Douglas P. Allen, Attorney at Law
Courthouse Plaza Bldg.
530 East Main Street, 1st Floor
Aspen, CO 81611
Dear Doug,
In regards to your letter of November 20, please accept my apologies for
the delay. However, I did not receive this letter until December 10. The
property in question is the old Agate property now presently owned by C.M.
Clark and the existing facilities are presently serviced by the City of Aspen
Water Department.
We now have water mains located in Bleeker, Hallam, and 6th Street and you
may access the existing City water main at any of these locations. Water
will be available to you for any new development upon application and payment
of any necessary tap fees. We will of course credit you with any existing
facilities now connected to the mains in accordance with our established
policy.
Should you install any new water services or abondon any existing services,
you must agree to physically disconnect any old services from the main in
accordance with our policy for the abandonment of old service lines.
If these conditions are met, I see no problem with your and your clients
obtaining water for your development.
Vim Markalunas, Director
Aspen Water Department
JM:ab
December 12, 1984
Douglas P. Allen
Courthouse Plaza Bldg.
530 E . Main St.
Aspen Colorado 81611
Dear Sir,
In reply to your letter dated November 20th
concerning the provision of telephone service to
block 17 in the City of Aspen I submit the following
information.
Mountain Bell is the serving telephone company
in this area and will provide telephone facilities for
this location.
1 nk you, P
Ra mond L. Carpent
Assistant Manager
Mountain Bell
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATURAL GAS COMPANY, INC.
0132 ATLANTIC AVE, • ASPEN AIRPORT BUSINESS CENTER, ASPEN, COLORADO •'°11 PHONE (303) 325-2323
December 18, 1984
Douglas P. Allen
Courthouse Plaza Bldg.
530 East Main Street, First Floor
Aspen, CO 81611
To Whom It May Concern;
In reference to the availability of Natural Gas for your project at Block 17 in
Aspen.
We have a 4" gas line at the east end of your project on North 6th Street. We
also have a 2" gas line that runs through your project in a gate court. At this
time, the line serves the Agate and a portion of the Villas project accross 7th
Street.
I feel we can adequately serve your project and will look forward to supplying
gas to your project.
S. erely,
Willard C. Clapper
District Manager
Rocky Mountain Natural
Gas Co. , Inc.
1
1■1
canyon cable tv
December 19 , 1984
Mr. Douglas P. Allen
Attorney at Law
Courthouse Plaza Bldg.
530 East Main St. First Floor
Aspen, Colorado 81611
Re: Block 17 , City and
Townsite of Aspen , CO.
Subdivision Application
Dear Sir:
This letter will confirm the availability
and adequacy of CATV service facilities pur-
suant to the provision of such service to the
above referenced subdivision.
Any facility extensions , relocations, or
connections shall be provided for according to
Canyon Cable policies in effect at the time of work.
Sin erely,
. Ka/ ly Bloomer
JKB/mjs
cc : George Ryerson, Chief Engineer
Division Of United Artists Cablesystems Corp.
50 Ventnor Avenue Aspen Colorado 81611 n 303 9254098
CITY OF ASPEN
130 south galena street
aspen , colorado 81611
303-925 -2020
December 21 , 1984
Douglas P. Allen
Courthouse Plaza Bldg
530 E Main St, First Floor
Aspen, Co 81611
Dear Mr. Allen,
In reference to Block 17 of Aspen, availability of single phase or
three phase is there and is more than adequite to serve the site.
The present utility service is of the overhead type, but the new
utility service will have to be of the undergound type.
Sincerely,
i ,Gyj,t. litzr,l et
II/7
Jim C77a�/pperalla
Acting Head
City Electric Dept.
} tf : E-1
ASPEN*PITKI& -REGIONAL BUILD.. •G DEPARTMENT
Nov 4 t9,11r
Nobember 3 , 1983
Jon Seigle
Sachs , Klein & Seigle
Attorneys at Law
201 North Mill Street
Aspen, CO 81611
Re: Unit Verification
Agate Lodge
Dear Jon:
This letter contains an inventory of what I observed during
our site inspection on September 30 , 1983 , at the Agate Lodge
property. This will appear similar to the format of your
letter of October 4 , 1983 , with additional comments on my part.
I will not comment as to whether these units are "lodge units" or
"multi-family units" , but I feel my comments will allow the planning
department to make that determination. I also cannot comment as to
whether all the units were constructed legally. I feel the time
of construction of some of the units may proceed our records .
Basically, the following pages contain observations that I
made regarding present conditions . I hope this is the verification
you need.
Sincerely,
i
W
William L. Drueding /
Zoning Enforcement Officer
cc : Planning
Paul Taddune , City Attorney
Wayne Chapman, City Manager
Patsy Newbury, Zoning Official
WLD/ar
offices: mail address:
110 East Hallam Street 506 East Main Street
Aspen, Colorado 81611 303/925-5973 Aspen, Colorado 81611
-5-
Unit #1 Cabin Unit, containing kitchen facilities . (Sink,
range, refrigerator)
Unit #2 Cabin Unit, Studio containing bath, refrigerator,
hot plate (no kitchen plumbing or range) .
Unit #3 Cabin Unit, Studio containing bath , refrigerator,
hot plate (no kitchen plumbing or range) .
Unit #4 Cabin Unit, Studio containing bath, refrigerator,
hot plate (no kitchen plumbing or range) .
Unit #5 Cabin Unit, Studio containing bath, refrigerator,
hot plate (no kitchen plumbing or range) .
Unit #6 Cabin Unit, Studio containing bath , refrigerator,
hot plate (no kitchen plumbing or range) .
Main Lodge - First Floor
Unit #7 I considered a studio containing: kitchen, bath,
illegal loft, illegal sleeping room.
Unit #8 Studio containing kitchen and bath.
Unit #9 Studio containing bath , stove , refrigerator, but
no kitchen plumbing.
Unit #10 Studio containing bath, stove, refrigerator, but
no kitchen plumbing.
Unit #11 Contained bath and kitchen. Two rooms appeared to be
combined into one unit.
Unit #17 Studio containing range , refrigerator, but
no kitchen sink or plumbing.
Main Lodge - Second Floor
Unit #12 One bedroom containing kitchen and bath facilities .
Unit #13 One bedroom containing bath and kitchen facilities.
Cabin #14 Various chopped-up rooms containing kitchen and bath
facilities .
Cabin #15 Two small bedrooms containing kitchen and bath facilities .
Cabin #16 Two bedrooms containing kitchen and bath facilities .
-6-
Page 2
Unit #18 House containing three bedrooms , bath and kitchen.
Unit #19 Converted chicken coop - studio with kitchen and bath .
This unit also contains a loft and fireplace that should
be considered highly dangerous . I cannot see that this
unit was ever a legal dwelling unit.
Unit #A20 A three bedroom house containing one kitchen and two
baths .
Fourplex: House
Unit #A21 A two bedroom unit containing a kitchen and bath.
Unit #A22 A two bedroom unit containing a kitchen and bath.
Unit #A23 A two bedroom unit containing a kitchen and bath.
Unit #A24 A two bedroom unit containing a kitchen and bath.
I feel it should be noted that the lower units A22 and A24 do not
contain proper egress from the bedrooms and should be considered
dangerous as sleeping rooms . I would have to question whether
these units were constructed legally.
Garage - contains a woodworking shop and availability for undetermined
parking.
-7-
Fite No. A84-227
Clark
Aspen, Block 17, Lts. A-S
ASPEN TITLE COMPANY, LTD.
530 East Main Street
Courthouse Plaza Building
Aspen, Colorado 81611
File No. A84-227
OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATE
Aspen Title Company, Ltd. hereby certifies that title to:
Lots A through S, both inclusive
Block 17
CITY AND TOWNSITE OF ASPEN
COUNTY OF PITKIN
STATE OF COLORADO
is vested in:
C.M. CLARK
and that the above described property is subject to the following:
1. Deed of Trust from C.M. Clark to the Public Trustee of Pitkin County, Colorado,
for the use of The Empire Savings, Building, and Loan Association, to secure
$1 ,170,000.00, dated June 16, 1982, recorded June 16, 1982, in Book 427 at
Page 992.
Said Deed of Trust assigned to the Public Employees Retirement Association of
Colorado, PERA, as Nominee, by instrument recorded March 16, 1983, in Book 442
at Page 36.
Said Deed of Trust modified by Note and Deed of Trust Modification Agreement
dated June 1, 1983, recorded June 16, 1983, in Book 447 at Page 190 A.
2. Financing Statement from C.M. Clark, Debtor, to The Empire Savings, Building,
and Loan Association, Secured Party, recorded June 16, 1983, in Book 427 at
Page 997, File No. 06931.
3. Any and all unpaid taxes and assessments and any and all tax sales which have
not been properly redeemed or cancelled.
NOTE: Although we believe the facts stated are true, this Certificate is not
to be construed as an abstract of title, nor an opinion or title, nor a guarantee
of title, and it is understood and agreed that the liability of Aspen Title Company,
Ltd. is limited to the amount of the fee charged hereunder.
ASPEN TITLE COMPANY, LTD. 2
i
BY: /' j«!� Fee: $100.00
GRANT CRENSHAW
Manager
Dated: June 29, 1984 at 8:00 A.M.
_q_
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I •
•
RESOLUTION OF TIM ASPEN PL PG AND 7,,ONING COMMISSION
RECOMMENDING CONCEPTUAL SUBDIVISION/PUD APPROVAL •
FOR THE AGATE COURT PROJECT — PS A"^-e
C '\ c o .-,.:1 kV -° J \
Resolution No. 85-10 o r \ \gS-
WHEREAS, C . M . (Butch ) Clark (hereinafter "Applicant" ) is the
• owner of record of Block 17 , City and Townsite of Aspen, commonly
known as "The Agate" ; and
WHEREAS, the Applicant has requested conceptual subdivision/PUD
approval to reconstruct the existing dwelling units on the site as six
•
single--family residences and two duplexes ; and
WHEREAS, the Applicant ha requested a traditional form of
subdivision along original townsite lots, rather than using a clus-
ter.ed design typically associated with a PUD, and also is not request-
ing variations from the zoning requirements of the P.-6 zone district ;
and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission supports the efforts of the
Applicant to upgrade this site, ithich is at the entrance to Aspen ; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission is concerned that the Applicant
has not used the flexibility offered by the PUD. overlay and that
the ref ore the Applicant has been unwilling to provide an adequate
buffer between the new units and the highway, and also has not avoided
all of the large trees on the site with the proposed house locations .
NOT-I, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning and Zoning
Commission of the City of Aspen, Colorado that it does hereby recom-
mend that the Aspen City Council grant conceptual subdivision/PUD
approval to the Agate Court prof t, subject to the following con-
ditions :
1 . The Applicant shall provide a landscape plan meeting the
requirements of Sections 24 -8 . 9 and 20-12 of the Code .
Included within said plan shall be a design which shall
significantly increase the landscape buffer along 7th Street
so as to provide relief from the noise of traffic for the
residents anc so c to better screen the view of the units
from thQ highway aPp\.�.* s\�\\ a ,>:�+Ly �-o�� 41,A Mpl.�as .FF
Lak k 4 v. n ""'.Y 'M4k se* v4Q.ki•.tt$ -ko ►t-a.oY•.Q\�. '-t. ••.1••d .F r.o
v¢l. ..t o.,. t\.Q 1...„\...N s , •4 A }.a,\ .G 1p.., vw'4$ At•.� it.r- o..1 t,-�t .
2. Trio Applicant shall relocate any structure which wouwd have
required the removal of. a tree which cannot he replanted and
demonstrate that all trees considered significant by the
Parks Director are retained in place or shall be relocated
on the site. aC 4 owlet s\.w\\ z\
P4 Q\.._ �v-\��...�� A k sk" - .
3 . The Applicant shall provide for alley access for all ten
units within the project, and alley access for trash removal,
and the project shall have no curb cuts on either Hallam or
Bleeker Streets . lcaw ••lt t, s\..\l nt g.,a• -‘n no o.., of
D t".■ � \o,:,lr.o..) 41 [\t. (tea. .....M..t �Lt1 t�4y� .c .� c... ,•S�
a.iw.o.`"";ty-Sak..0 l�.a ` c..,-3.. 04,.%4,\,\Y s ••.1y ••,•‘-ke w.kt.. sV��t .-p., „s t^as� .E
4 . The Applicant shall contact the Fire Department to determine
the necessity of keening the alley open onto 7th St reet
If the department indicates in writing that the alley must
be kept open, then the Applicant shrill agree to place a no
left turn sign at the exit to 7th Street . In the absence of`.
•
a
•
Resolution No. 85-10
Page 2
such a written statement, the Applicant shall alter the
design to show no exit or entrance for cars along 7th
Street , a properly designed turn around at the end of the
cul-d-sac, and a contini us landscaped berm in this loca-
tion .
5 . The Applicant shall revise the design of the "auto courts"
such that the driveways are narrowed to approximately
26 ' , in accord with the recommendations of the Engineering
Department, but shall also insure that the alley continues
•
to provide adequate area for service vehicle access .
6. The Applicant shall provide details on the internal makeup
of the two duplexes so as to insure that one parking space
is provided for each bedroom within the project .
7 . The Applicants shall provide a bus stop at the corner of
Seventh and Sleeker meeting the specifications of RFTA, and
shall provide a sidewalk for the length of Seventh Street .
8 . The Applica shall provide adequa guarantees to the
satisfacti • of the City • ttorney th . the two duplex units
will not •e condominiu• zed for a eriod o - five ( 5) ears
from th- date of th r occupan • . The easons f this
requi -ment are th. the Plann '. g Commit ion is no requi.r-
. ing . ny miticatio ' of the l . ss of e • loyee hot. i.ng as a
rer at of this pr. oj ect , d that etention the units
u. er single • 'nership ma facilit. te highway planning by
educing th • number of landown- s td be co tatted in the
event addit ' anal, right-•f�-way is required.
�P\1/4"3 4tik\ M \ a'R "--e\""""t s• SCI O.. to-1j. C0.. , Jw.;S �� •.
9. The Applicant ^sh- all underground all utilities within the �°
pro ect. vw' t..a •( hpp\.s•.•!. ,\..h saw.Jc c..a,9.,.� C-o,• y...9. 0 ..l..•+� `�^
.r t—c�..�ls A\...4-I •F N. (-.hy.a4a .i.-9.t w,,. C..o o sue..\\ 'Se G.•O.o..a_sk-
w..\.�J.Sl •G A.�a ■ A.4. (,.�\ t•-•
p..•�. s A �..:% .Q•.wC•/^• as\.: 1
10 . The Applicant thall meet the setback and height limitations s.�r\y
of the City Code as indicated by Bill Drueding in his review w.k
of this project. A 'Awtri
F•R 4
11 . The Applicant shall meet the conditions for water service r.i
outlined by Jim tiarkalunas in his letter to Douglas Allen °wti"S
dated December 17 , 1984 . •a�aJ 'S
12. The Applicant shall submit a preliminary plan within six
months of the date of conceptual approval by Council , as
required by Section 24-8 . 9 of the Code or this conceptual
approval shall expire. r
APPROVED by the Aspen Planning and Zoning Commission at their
regular meeting on June 4, 1985 .
ASPEN PLANNING AND ZONING
a COMMISSION
. Perry .arvey, Chairman
ATTEST:
A (i)?c GU-eil /e
Kim Wilhoit, Deputy City Clerk
AR. 2
2
•
)
MEMORANDUM
To : Colette Penne
From: Elyse Elliott ]
Date: February 12, 1985
Re: Agate Court Project Conceptual Subdivision
In reviewing the above application and making a site inspection,
the Engineering Department has the following comments :
1 . R-6 zoning requires the setbacks in the front and rear yards
to be 10 feet and 15 feet respectively. The site plan indicates
a front yard setback of 15 feet and -a rear yard setback of 10
feet. This is the opposite of the requirements .
2 . Since the driveway is located in the alley, section 19-10 on
curb cuts does not apply. However , this department feels that
the cut for the driveway is excessive. The plans propose a curb
cut of 66 feet on a 90 feet wide lot. We recommend that the curb
cut be narrowed as shown to provide for more open space and
accessibility to the trash dumpster.
\�. AwTDPORT i
RODITI6NAL OPEN .5�
ACE \
kr' 6b
ALLE)
MEMORANDUM
TO: Aspen City Council 1 ,<,--
THRU : Hal Schilling, City Manager .
FROM: Alan Richman, Planning and Development Director
RE: Agate Court Project - Conceptual Subdivision/PUD
DATE: August 12, 1985
SUMMARY: The Planning Commission recommends approval of the Agate
Court Conceptual PUD subject to twelve conditions. The Planning
Office recommends additional conditions if this conceptual PUD is to
be approved.
LOCATION: All of Block 17, City and Townsite of Aspen (Lots A, B, C,
D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, 0, P, Q, R and S) .
ZONItG : This 54, 000 square foot parcel is zoned R-6 PUD.
APPLICANT'S REQUEST: The applicant is requesting approval of concep-
tual subdivision and PUD for the redevelopment of Block 17 . This
proposal is for the demolition of all existing structures and the
resubdivision of the property into six single-family lots and two
duplex lots.
Conceptual PUD requires that the applicant demonstrate the conformance
of the proposal with the purposes of the PUD article.
Section 24-8.1 of the Municipal Code states that the purpose of the
Planned Unit Development article "is to encourage flexibility ,
innovation and variety in the development of and to provide perfor-
mance criteria for PUD' s which will :
" (a) Promote greater variety in the type, design and layout of
buildings ;
(b) Improve the design, character and quality of new develop-
ment ;
(c) Promote more efficient use of land and public streets,
utilities and governmental services;
(d) Preserve open space as development occurs;
(e) Provide procedures so as to relate the type, design and
layout of residential development to a particular site and
thus encourage the preservation of the site ' s unique,
11
natural and scenic features; and
(f) Achieve a beneficial land use relationship with surrounding
area. "
The conceptual presentation requirements include a statement by the
applicant as to the planning objectives to be achieved by the planned
unit development through the particular approach chosen, including any
specific advantages that a PUD offers as opposed to a conventional
subdivision . In addition, future ownership of all portions of the
property is to be projected. Other conceptual requirements include a
description of approximate location of structures, density, use and
types of buildings, and location of common open space, park and
recreation areas. Finally, you are to be provided with general
landscaping renderings of the proposed improvements which, although
preliminary, are of sufficient detail to apprise the Council of the
exterior design, bulk and mass of the development and its relationship
to terrain features of the site.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION: Council held a work session to review this
application on July 15, 1985. No action was taken at that time, but
the applicant did present you the attached memo outlining various
concerns about the P&Z conditions.
BAC/G ROUND: The Planning Office and the Planning and Zoning Commis-
sion have been reviewing proposals to redevelop the Agate property
since early in 1984. The original proposal to construct six single-
family and two duplex structures was submitted by another applicant .
After several meetings with P&Z, during which the applicant ' s request
for variances in FAR and height were not well received, the applica-
tion was withdrawn and the property reverted to its owner, C. M.
(Butch) Clark.
The present proposal was brought forward last fall when the applicant
indicated his intent to develop the property simply as a land sub-
division along townsite lot lines, rather than to cluster the units as
a PUD, and without designing the units prior to lot sales. In fact,
P&Z was asked to either remove the PUD designation from the parcel or
to allow its subdivision without architectural review, as required by
PUD.
The Planning Commission gave great attention to the fact that the site
is zoned Mandatory PUD and we advised the Commission as to why the
site might have originally been given this designation. We know that
in the last major rezoning of Aspen in the 1970s, the PUD designation
was applied to hillsides, streambanks and similarly sensitive environ-
mental features. In this case, the site is flat and the only key
features on the site are its large trees . We have, therefore,
inferred that the probable reason for the site ' s PUD designation is
its prominence at the entrance to town and the desire of the community
to achieve a beneficial relationship between plans for State Highway
82 and this site ' s redevelopment . PUD flexibility could also be
2
useful in avoiding the removal of trees from the site.
Based on these considerations, P&Z required the applicant to submit
designs for the two duplexes along the Highway frontage and to portray
the landscaping which would soften the views along the Highway and
shield residents from traffic and noise. The applicant has responded
to these requirements, but as demonstrated in the attached P&Z
Resolution 85-10, recommending conceptual approval, P&Z is as yet not
totally satisfied with these designs.
PROBLEM DISCUSSION: Based on the reviews performed by the Planning
Office and the Planning Commission, there appear to be three key
issues with respect to this development, which can be characterized
as follows:
1 . Lot line subdivision versus clustered PUD;
2. Circulation issues/highway interface; and
3. Employee housing mitigation.
Each of these problems is discussed further below.
1. Lot Line Subdivision Versus Cluster PUD.
As noted above, the applicant ' s concept for this block is to
subdivide the lots along original townsite lines, to design only
the duplex structures and to leave construction up to each of the
lot purchasers. The Planning Office feels that this concept has
merit and that this design approach satisfies the criteria of
achieving a beneficial land use relationship with surrounding
areas and the criteria of promoting greater variety in the type
and design of buildings. The West End neighborhoods to the east,
north and south of this parcel are all subdivided along original
townsite lot lines and a variety of architectural styles exist
on each block. Allowing the Agate block to be developed without
a totally planned concept is an interesting approach that we
support, particularly since no variations from R-6 Area and Bulk
Requirements are being requested.
In our opinion, the lack of a unified architectural theme is not
the real problem with respect to this concept . Instead, as will
be argued below, the applicant ' s unwillingness to use PUD design
flexibility in the development of the block has led to a variety
of other technical site problems. For example, there are several
large trees on the site which fall within the lots which have not
clearly been demonstrated to be avoided by house locations .
These four trees range from 12" to 20 " in diameter and are
approximately 30 ' to 60 ' in height. The Planning Commission has
recommended that the structures avoid the location of any tree
which cannot be relocated. The applicant has indicated a
willingness to replant those trees which can be moved and to
3
avoid those trees which can't be moved, but has not submitted a
landscaping plan demonstrating any such commitments. This plan
should be required at the Preliminary PUD stage. We support the
applicant ' s request for flexibility in driveway design and
footprint location to attempt to avoid the largest trees which we
would prefer not be moved.
2. Circulation Issues/Highway Interface.
The more important design problems with respect to this proposal
fall into the circulation category. First, the applicant has
followed our advice and shown vehicle access for the duplex
structures through the alley into "auto courts" with parking
spaces off these entrances. The alley access is preferable, in
our opinion, to curb cuts. The Engineering Department feels that
the cut for the driveway into the auto court is excessive, and
they propose in a drawing we have attached that it be narrowed to
26 feet (from 66 feet ) so that additional open space is provided
and access to the dumpster is still maintained.
Access to the single-family residences is as yet undefined. The
applicant intends to "encourage the purchasers of the lots to
utilize the Agate Court roadway for automobile access, thus
further minimizing additional curb cuts. " The Planning Office
feels that since the alley is being proposed as the access to the
duplexes, the six single-family lots should be limited to alley
access and trash access for these homes should also be in the
alley. Six curb cuts are unnecessary, and do not represent
"efficient use of land and public streets " as noted in the
criteria above. Use of the alley will permit additional land
within the block to be kept in open space and should be an
improvement on both Hallam and Sleeker Streets.
The site plan appears to propose that the alley be accessible
from both Sixth and Seventh Streets . We feel that the alley
should be closed at Seventh Street. The landscaped strip along
Seventh Street should continue unbroken and the alleyway should
terminate at the duplex driveways. Interaction of vehicles
turning into the development or entering onto the highway from
the alley could be a hazardous situation and should be avoided.
The P&Z concurred with this conclusion, but also recognized that
the Fire Department might want the alley left open for access
purposes. Therefore, the applicant has been required to contact
the Fire Department and, if the alley is to be left open, to
place signs at the Seventh Street exit prohibiting left turns.
The most extensively debated issue by the P&Z was the project ' s
interface with State Highway 82 . As you know, one alternative
still under consideration for the entrance to Aspen is to four-
lane the highway in place . According to the best information
available to the Planning Office, four-laning of the existing
alignment will result in a decibel level produced by traffic that
4
makes homes on Lots A, B, K and L "uninhabitable" by federal
standards. Therefore, if the duplexes are built and the Highway
is expanded in place, the project may have to compensate the
owners of these units.
The Planning Office feels that the placement of two duplexes
within a proposed Highway alignment is contrary to good community
planning and could reduce our options to meet our public safety
and general welfare needs. Through the use of POD techniques,
the applicant could easily achieve the ten unit density requested
and yet avoid this sensitive location. The lack of such a plan
is, in our opinion, the most significant failing of this con-
ceptual submission. The Planning Commission agreed with this
conclusion in part, by requiring "a significant increase in the
landscape buffer along Seventh Street " , but fell short of
requiring the structures to be moved off of the four most
sensitive lots. Please note that it is our understanding of this
condition that P&Z was looking for an increase in the width and
density of the buffer, not just an increase in the density of the
plantings as the applicant has suggested.
3. Employee Housing Mitigation.
This reconstruction proposal is exempt from the growth management
system since it represents a net decrease in unit density and not
an increase. The Building Department has verified that 24 units
currently exist at the Agate, and the applicant only intends to
rebuild ten units.
All 24 units at the Agate have been used for long-term rentals
for some time, and five ( 5) of the units, containing eleven
bedrooms, fall within our employee housing guidelines. However,
the Housing Authority has confirmed that since no condominiumiza-
tion is being proposed, our regulations provide no basis to
require replacement of any employee housing units. Replacement
is only required if condominiumization takes place within 18
months of the date a unit is rented within the guidelines .
However, P&Z has recommended a condition that none of the duplex
units be condominiumized for five years from the date of their
occupancy since no employee housing mitigation is being requir-
ed. The applicant has objected to this condition in the attached
memo to Council , and, based on our conversations with the
City Attorney, we concur that condition 8 should not be a
requirements of this project .
ALTERNATIVES: To understand the alternatives available, it is first
necessary to summarize the principal pros and cons of this proposal.
Favorable aspects of this proposal include the fact that it will
upgrade what is one of the most run down, highly visible blocks in the
City ; reduce the number of units on the block to a much more accept-
able density; provide the opportunity for a variety of designs, in
keeping with the West End development pattern; and require the use of
5
no variances. Negative aspects of the proposal are its conflict with
planning for State Highway 82; lack of detail with respect to tree
removal, housing siting and landscaping; and displacement of long term
rental housing without mitigation.
Based on these considerations, Council has at least four possible
alternatives available at this time :
1 . Require the applicant to fully comply with the PUD provisions.
The applicant would have to come in with a clustered PUD plan,
avoiding the Seventh Street conflict , and showing building
footprints, elevations and landscaping. The PUD would also
probably require the applicant to condominiumize the units so
that employee housing mitigation would take place.
2. Require the applicant to further elaborate on the design before
you take any action or as a condition of conceptual approval. At
a minimum, an increased buffer on Seventh Street and footprints
for the single-family houses should be shown. Alternatives would
include moving the houses off Lots A and R (two front lots) , Lots
A, B, R and L (four front lots) or simply expanding the buffer
but allowing housing on all of the lots in the block.
3 . Approve the conceptual plan with P&Z ' s conditions, which defer
the detailed design issues to preliminary PUD review.
4. Deny the proposal as inconsistent with the intent of placing a
PUD on the property.
The Planning Office' s recommendation to PO was to deny the conceptual
plan and to direct the applicant to resubmit a PUD on the lines
suggested by alternative #1 or #2 above. Though we see a great deal
of merit to upgrading this block, we feel that this proposal does not
meet the intents and purposes of PUD. The landscaping and architec-
tural plans are sketchy and incomplete (cover only part of the site)
and the applicant has entirely ignored the statement in Section 24-8.2
that
"A PUD is a subdivision wherein there is a departure from the
usual design of regularly platted lots and blocks devoted to a
single classification of land use. A PUD may be characterized by
. . . a combination of the following design approaches : . . .
(a) Averaged lot area . . .
(b) Clustering of development . . .
(c) Architectural cluster . "
By proposing a design which uses none of the above methods, we believe
that the project does not serve the City' s long term planning in-
terests particularly due to the placement of two new duplexes which
6
conflict with highway planning.
Should the Council agree with the Planning Commission rather than the
Planning Office, we recommend that you add to their conditions a
requirement that footprints or building envelopes be shown for the six
single-family lots. The addition of this information at the prelimi-
nary stage will insure that future purchasers avoid the large trees
with their houses and provide a framework for a more integrated PUD
plan. The applicant has no objection of this condition.
Furthermore, we recommend that prior to conceptual approval, you
require that the applicant move the duplexes off Lots A and K, at a
minimum and preferably off of Lots A, B, K and L, and use a modified
clustering technique (i . e. , reduce the setbacks between houses but
retain the traditional lot line approach proposed by the applicant ) to
avoid the impacts of the Highway on these residences.
ADVISORY COMMITTEE VOTE: The Planning Commission adopted Resolution
85-10 on June 4 by a vote of 5-2.
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Presuming that the Council is generally in
agreement with the Planning Commission ' s approach to this project ,
following is the appropriate motion :
"Move to approve the Agate Court Conceptual PUD, subject to the
conditions of P&Z Resolution 85-10, with the following changes :
1 . Add the requirement that building envelopes be shown for the
six single-family lots.
2. Add the requirements that the duplexes be moved entirely off
of Lots A and K and that setbacks between buildings can be
varied to achieve this desired result. (Note: The Planning
Office continues to prefer no development on Lots A, B, K
and L and even greater reductions in setbacks than would
otherwise be needed, but offers this proposal as a compro-
mise solution to the issue)
3 . Add language to the effect that flexibility will be given in
the review of driveways and footprint locations at the
preliminary plat stage if it can be demonstrated that said
flexibility will permit the retention of the most signifi-
cant trees on the site.
4. Eliminate Condition # 8.
5 . Clarify Condition # 9 to insure that the applicant is not
"double-taxed" for the cost of undergrounding utilities on
the site . "
AR.13
7
RI ELUTION OF TILE ASPEN PLANNING A" 'ZONING COMMISSION
•
1 ..ECOTIMENDItZ CONCEPTUAh suanIV3. )N/PUD APPROVAL
FOR TIUE AGATE COURT PROJECT
1 Resolution No. 85-10
a
4..
WHEREAS, C. M. (Butch) Clark (hereinafter "Applicant") is the
•
{ owner of record of Block 17, City and Townsite of Aspen, commonly-
, known as "The Agate"; and
1 WHEREAS, the Applicant has requested conceptual subdivision/PUD
approval to reconstruct the existing dwelling units on the site as six
single-family residences and two duplexes; and
WHEREAS, the Applicant has requested a traditional form of
subdivision along original townsite lots, rather than using a clus-
tered design typically associated with a PUD, and also is not request-
Iing variations from the zoning requirements of the R-6 zone district;
and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission supports the efforts of the
Applicant to upgrade this site, which is at the entrance to Aspen; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission is concerned that the Applicant
has not used the flexibility offered by the PUD overlay and that
therefore the Applicant has been unwilling to provide an adequate
buffer between the new units and the highway, and also has not avoided
all of the large trees on the site with the proposed house locations.
NON, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning and Zoning
Commission of the City of Aspen, Colorado that it does hereby recom-
mend that the Aspen City Council grant conceptual subdivision/PUD
approval to the Agate Court project, subject to the following con-
ditions:
1. The Applicant shall provide a landscape plan meeting the
requirements of Sections 24-8 . 9 and 20-12 of the Code .
Included within said plan shall be a design which shall
significantly increase the landscape buffer along 7th Street
so as to provide relief from the noise of traffic for the
residents and so as to better screen the view of the units
from the highway.
2. The Applicant shall relocate any structure which would have
required the removal of a tree which cannot be replanted and
demonstrate that all trees considered significant by the
Parks Director are retained in place or shall be relocated
on the site.
3. The Applicant shall provide for alley access for all ten
units within the project and alley access for trash removal,
and the project shall have no curb cuts on either Hallam or
Blocker Streets.
4, The Applicant shall contact the Fire Department to determine
the necessity of keeping the alley open onto 7th Street .
If the department indicates in writing that the alley must
hr. knnt nnnn. then the Applicant shall agree to place a nc,
Resolution No. 85-10
Page 2
such a written statement, the Applicant shall alter the
design to show no exit or entrance for cars along 7th
Street, a properly designed turn around at the end of the
cul-d-sac, and a continuous landscaped berm in this loca-
tion.
5. The Applicant shall revise the design of the "auto courts"
such that the driveways are narrowed to approximately
26' , in accord with the recommendations of the Engineering
Department, but shall also insure that the alley continues
•
to provide adequate area for service vehicle access.
6. The Applicant shall provide details on the internal makeup
of the two duplexes so as to insure that one parking space
is provided for each bedroom within the project.
7. The Applicants shall provide a bus stop at the corner of
Seventh and Sleeker meeting the specifications of RFTA, and
shall provide a sidewalk for the length of Seventh Street.
8. The Applicant shall provide adequate guarantees to the
satisfaction of the City Attorney that the two duplex units
will not be condominiumized for a period of five (5) years
from the date of their occupancy. The reasons for this
requirement are that the Planning Commission is not requir-
ing any mitigation of the loss of employee housing as a
result of this project, and that retention of the units
under single ownership may facilitate highway planning by
reducing the number of landowners to be contacted in the
event additional right-of-way is required.
9. The Applicant shall underground all utilities within the
project.
10. The Applicant shall meet the setback and height limitations
of the City Code as indicated by Bill Drueding in his review
of this project.
11. The Applicant shall meet the conditions for water service
outlined by Jim t tarkalunas in his letter to Douglas Allen
dated December 17, 1984.
12. The Applicant shall submit a preliminary plan within six
months of the date of conceptual approval by Council, as
required by Section 24-8.9 of the Code or this conceptual
approval shall expire.
APPROVED by the Aspen Planning and Zoning Commission at their
regular meeting on June 4, 1985.
- - 1 ASPEN PLANNING AND ZONING
CONIIISSION
. Perry .arvey, Chairman
ATTEST: /
004//f
Kim Wilhoit, Deputy City Clerk
AR.2
. 'i
MEMORANDUM
•
TO: ASPEN MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
FROM: APPLICANT FOR AGATE COURT PROJECT
SUBJ: AGATE COURT PROJECT - CONCEPTUAL SUBDIVISION APPLICATION
DATE: JULY 15, 1985
This Memorandum is written in response to the Planning Office
Memorandum of June 24, 1985 and P & Z Resolution 85 - 10.
The purpose of this Memorandum is to hopefully simplify the
consideration of conceptual approval of this project by stipulating
and agreeing to most of the conditions for approval of both the
Planning Office and the Planning and Zoning Commission. The
recommendation of the Planning Office is for one of two alternates and
the one that the Applicant is pursuing is to deal with P & Z
{ Resolution 85 - 10. The Applicant is willing to comply with the
additional requirement of the Planning Office that building envelopes
be shown for the six single-family lots and would accept approval
subject to that requirement.
Regarding Resolution 85 - 10 which contains 12 conditions, the
Applicant has no objection to conditions 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 11 and 12.
Regarding condition 2, this needs to be considered in connection with
condition 3. In order to maintain the appearance of a traditional
West End block which concept the Planning Office states:
"has merit and that this design approach satisfies
the criteria of achieving a beneficial land use
with surrounding areas and the criteria of
promoting greater variety in the type and design
of buildings."
The Applicant does desire to retain the flexibility especially on the
northeast and southeast lots to be able to locate both the dwellings
and the driveways so as to be most compatible with the existing trees.
Relative to condition 9, the Applicant would point out that the
proposed bonding program to underground utilities in the west end of
town will be paid for by increased ad valorem taxes and to require the
Applicant to pay for undergrounding utilities within the project would
cause the owners of this block to pay twice for such services.lf this
{ is done the cost would be paid in cash up front by the Developer and
then again paid by virtue of taxes required to retire the bonds.
The requirement of condition 8 is a requirement that the Applicant
seeks to have modified. The Applicant is willing to covenant in
accordance with Section 20-22 of the Aspen Municipal Code that the
duplex units will not be condominiumized for a period of 18 months.
The existing rents are more than those maximum rents allowed by the
Employee Guidelines. Relative to the facilitation of the highway
planning, the Applicant agrees to work with the applicable authorities
to facilitate the planning so as not create an additional burden as
the result of the number of landowners to be contacted in the event
additional right-of-way is required.
THOMAS WELLS & ASSOCIATES ARCHITECTS
314 SOUTH MILL STREET ASPEN.COLORADO 81611 TELEPHONE 303 925-7817
November 19, 1984
Planning & Zoning Commission
City of Aspen
130 S. Galena Street
Aspen, CO 81611
Dear Members:
Enclosed herewith are ten copies of the
development plans for PUD application for the
Agate Court project, block 17, Aspen, owned by
Mr. C. M. Clark.
The plans are based on the agreement reached in
our preliminary meeting in October. As
requested, we are submitting detailed- proposals
for the two duplex lots adjoining Seventh
Street. The six remaining parcels will be
unrestricted R-6 single family parcels.
Please note that there are no curb cuts on any
of the duplex lot frontages. Although we are
not restricting the single family lots in any
way, we intend to encourage the purchasers of
the lots to utilize the Agate Court roadway for
automobile access, thus further minimizing
additional curb cuts.
Since there are no changes requested to the
underlying R-6 zoning by way of density, FAR,
height limits, etc. , all of the impacts defined
in the PUD ordinance will be in keeping with the
surrounding neighborhood. In particular, water,
sewer, gas, electric, and telephone utilities
for each proposed lot are existing with
sufficient capacity, and will require no
relocations or extensions of any kind.
An additional detail to notice is that the
additional setback and angled building lines
along Seventh Street will be bermed and heavily
landscaped by the developer of the duplex
projects. The low profile of the buildings, the
angled facades, together with the berms and
landscaping will soften the impact of developing
this sensitive entry corner to town.
V ry truly yours,
Thomas 0. Wells
Architect
Art At. syk■IA,IrC
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Regular -Meeting --- - - - Aspen City Council ikuquS t 12 , _ 985
CONCEPTUAL PUD - Agate Court
Alan Richman, planning director, reminded Council at a previous
work session they reviewed the issues of this project. Richman
said a PUD is to achieve certain purposes ; promoting more
efficient use of land and public streets , preserving open
space , preserving the site ' s unique features, and a beneficial
land use relationship with surrounding properties. Richman said
this plan could promote more efficient use of land and streets
if access is limited to the alley and the alley is closed at
7th street. There would be more efficient use of land and
streets if there was not the inter-relation with the highway,
which is a problem here.
Richman said he does not feel this PUD preserves open space .
This project is preserving the site' s unique features in attempt-
ing to preserv-e trees. Regarding the beneficial land use
relationship with surrounding properties, Richman said there is
concern about the location of the duplexes. Richman presented a
map with the proposed state highway alignment and the lot lines.
P & Z discussed increasing the buffer along 7th street. The
buffer is presently 8 feet wide. Richman suggested the duplexes
come off a lots A and K as a compromise. This would preserve
open space, move the duplexes away from the highway and create a
beneficial land use relationship. Richman told Council his
preferred approach is to not build on Lots A and B and K and L.
Richman said if the applicant moves the duplexes off lots A and
K, it should not affect the density of the project, which is
proposed 10 units. Richman said he does have a problem with the
proximity, but he feels it would be acceptable to vary setbacks
between buildings , which is appropriate in a PUD. P & Z has
recommended approval with 12 conditions. Richman has identified
5 areas where the conditions can be amended or improved. One is
the suggestion for building envelopes on the other six lots,
which the applicant does not have a problem with.
The applicant has requested flexibility in driveway and footprint
locations at the preliminary plat stage toward the benefit of
saving the trees. Richman said giving the flexibility resulting
in preservation of the trees is a worthwhile trade off. Richman
told Council P & Z condition Q8 was that the duplexes not be
condominiumized for 5 years. Richman told Council staff cannot
support that condition, and recommend it be eliminated. The
applicant has requested condition t9 be clarified so that
the applicant is not double taxed for the cost of undergrounding
utilities.
•
19
Regular--Meeting -- -- ---Aspen City Council August 12, 1985
Doug Allen, representing the applicant , told Council they are
in agreement with conditions 3 , 4 , 5 in the planning office
memorandum. Allen said they do not agree to sterilize 2 or 4
lots in the project. Allen submitted the study of Mach 1985
regarding the highway with the costs of the alternatives. The
cost of aligning the highway by the Agate is $5,000 ,000 versus
$1 ,600 ,000 for the "straight shot". Allen said everyone agrees
the "straight shot" is the preferred alternative; it costs less
and makes more engineering sense. Allen said it is not realistic
to believe the highway would come by the Agate.
Allen said it is not fair to deal with this property and steril-
ize 2 or 4 lots when there is a development the planning office
concedes has merits and retains the character of the west end.
Allen said if the developer has to pull back , they lose two
units. This property is allowed 12 units; the developer is only
asking for 10 units, and presently there are 24 units on the
property. This _would be reducing the density and there will be
about 40 , 000 square feet of open space . Allen told Council
there are 31 trees on the lot; they can preserve 27 trees and
are asking permission to move 2 trees and transplant 2 trees.
Allen told Council the applicant would prefer alternative 0 in
the planning office-memo, which is approve the conceptual plan
with P & Zs conditions, which defer the detailed design issues
to preliminary PUD review. Allen said the condition regarding
the building envelopes is appropriate at preliminary plat rather
than conceptual . Richman agreed to that. Allen said the
applicant is opposed to sterilizing the lots, which destroys the
project.
Councilman Collins said he thought the applicant had an alterna-
. ti_ve plan. Richman said the applicant originally was going to
market the lots with no design of the two duplexes, to create
complete individuality of the 10 units. The P & Z insisted on
seeing the design of the front two duplexes because of the
visual questions and the extent of the setbacks. Councilman
Collins said even if the highway comes straight in, there will
be a lot of traffic here from Cemetery Lane and the Institute.
Councilman Collins said he would prefer to see the duplexes
moved back and give some concessions with the footprints.
Butch Clark said this street would cease to be the entrance to
Aspen. The state is not going to spend $5 ,000 , 000 to build a
highway. Clark agreed 7th street will be a key street but will
•
not be any different than any other arteries. Councilman
Collins said he would like to keep the options open. Richman
said the point of PUP is to preserve open space for the benefit
of the public, not just for private open space. Richman said
PUD is a subdivision wherein there is a departure from the usual
20
Regular --Meetin-g---- --- ---- -;Aquen City Council ' August 12 , 1985
design of regularly platted lots. Richman said he feels the
city has the right to ask for these lots for the benefit of the
public and the surrounding neighborhood , not just for the
benefit of the purchasers of the lots. Councilwoman Walls said -
the purpose for the PUD on this property was to have control
over some proposed large project. The applicant just wants to
revert to single lots like the rest of the west end. Council-
woman Walls said she feels this is an excellent project for this
parcel. Councilwoman Walls said the city is not requiring other
property owners in the west end to provide a lot of open space
for the public.
Mayor Stirling said he feels the PUD is appropriate for this
block. In a PUD there needs to be a sense of a benefit to the �.
general public. This is a unique block. Clark said this block
would be the only block that had to move back . Councilman
Collins pointed out the city made the Villas move back. Mayor
Stirling agreed with pushing back the lots on 7th street. ME,yor
Stirling said there is still the potential to do duplexes on 7th
street. Allen said when you take 30 feet out of a lot, you have
substandard lots and the character of the west end is not
maintained. Mayor Stirling urged the Council to require all 5
conditions, which would give the best combination of a PUD with
-single family and duplex units and would provide benefits for the
community. Mayor Stirling said he feels 10 units works and will
continue to work with the buffer along Main street.
Allen said this buffer will not be used as a park even if it is
30 feet. Allen said when you make the lots smaller, it will
impinge on every property on the block. Allen said they are not
asking for any variance in FAR. Allen said to sterilize two lots
will crowd the houses together . Councilman Collins said he
would like the city to have the opportunity for the 30 foot
setback. Richman told Council it is clear if the units abut the
blue line, and the highway is constructed on this alignment, the
units will have to be taken. Clark said no one believes
the highway will be on this alignment ; it is not reasonable.
Councilman Isaac moved to approve the conceptual PUD for the
Agate Court subject to conditions 1 , 3 , 4 , 5 in the planning
office memorandum of August 12, 1985; seconded by Councilwoman
Walls.
Mayor Stirling said it is a bad precedent not to have a buffer
along 7th street for all the reasons that have been discussed.
Clark said a precedent is being set by picking out one property
and treating it entirely differently. Mayor Stirling said this
block is unique in its character and different from other blocks
in the west end.
21
Regul ar Meeti nT - - - -_--Aspen City Con:ci t. August 12 , 1985
Councilmembers Isaac and Walls in favor ; Councilmembers Fallin,
Collins and Mayor Stirling opposed. Motion NOT carried.
Mayor Stirling moved to approve the Agate Court conceptual PUD
subject to conditions in the P & Z resolution 85-10 and condit-
ions 1 through 5 in the planning office memorandum; seconded by
Councilwoman Fallin.
Allen said Council is using the PUD in an extractive manner.
The applicant is not tryixg to build something offensive on the
land, but to offer for sale traditional west end lots. If the
city wants the two end lots, th .:y should buy the lots and not
take them with no compensation . Barry Edwards , attorney ' s
office, disagreed and said the city is not taking anything.
Mayor Stirling reiterated a FUD is a subdivision where there is
a departure from the usual design characterized by a combination
of the following desian approaches, averaged lot area, clustering
of development, architectural clustering as well as open space
and benefits to the general public. Mayor Stirling said this
recommendation comes the closest to combining good potential for
the developer and a general benefit to the community. Richman
said the Council is approving the density, not taking away, but
suggesting locations of the buildings Councilwoman Walls asked
if it would be possible to put a duplex on the other two lots.
Richman said with an innovative design, it would be possible.
All in favor, with the exception of Councilmembers Isaac and
Walls. Motion carried.
CONS Ell AGENDA.
Councilwoman Walls moved to approve the consent agenda; seconded
by Councilman Collins. The consent agenda is Liquor License
renewals ; Roaring Fork & Spoon, Aspen Art Museum; MEAN Resolu-
tion. All in favor, motion carried.
Councilwoman Fallin moved to continue the meeting to 3: 45 p. m.
Monday, August 19 , 1985; seconded by Councilwoman Walls. All in
favor , motion carried. Council left Chambers at 10: 30 p. m.
Kathryn S 2Koch, City Clerk
•
•
22
-g a r& Cr a �4.e � .
Smir a Yaw. 5590 era dirar c_igcra, tficLe`„W
Jon, cwx,
(909) .925-d'00
�2 (sat) .92'5-999,
June 10, 1985
Pl. Alan Richman 0 NI—
Planning Director �. 1177s11I![1
City of Aspen
130 S. Galena Street
Aspen, CO 81611 JUN I O N
Re: Agate Court Conceptual Subdivision
Dear Alan:
As a result of the comment by one of the Planning and Zoning
Commission members at the meeting approving the conceptual
subdivision, I had a portion of the tree survey re—done. I enclose a
copy of that revision as well as a Surveyor's Certificate dated June
6, 1985 reflecting that the trees in question on Lot 4 are not over
40 feet high and that the diameters are slightly less than previously
shown.
au ly yours,
ou
b 1s P Allen
DPA/p
Enclosures
cc: C. M. Clark
ALREGISTERED IN COLO.,NEW MEXICO AND UTAH
GERARD H . PESMAN, P. E., L. S.
�. ` ASSOCIATED WITH
�, ��� SURVEY ENGINEERS, INC. ELKS BLDG-21 COLO.- / P.O.BOX 3816
ASPEN,COLD.81611
JOHN TILIEY,ASSOC. PHONE 303-925-3816
°aslirr 41'1
June 6, 1985
Job I 13276
Doug Allen
530 E. Main
Aspen, Co . 81611
Dear Doug,
On Tuesday, June 4, 1985 , a field survey was conducted to
determine the location and height of certain fir trees loca-
ted on Lots 3 & 4, also known as Lots F,G ,H, & I , Block 17,
Aspen original townsite, as per the accompanying plat of a
previous survey conducted by Survey Engineers , Inc .
The locations are as shown on the attached plat with the
trunk diameters measured at a height of 4. 5ft . off the ground,
and measured with a tree diameter tape borrowed from the
Forest Service.
The heights are as follows :
Lot 4 14"dia. spruce. . . 40 .0 '
Lot 4 12"dia. spruce. . . 31 . OT
Lot 3 20"dia. spruce. . . 58. 7'
Lot 3 14"dia. ponderosa. . . 32.9 '
If we may be of any additional service feel free to con-
tact us . Thank you.
42SiFerely,
Richard Dickman R.L. S.
MEMORANDUM
TO: Aspen Planning and Zoning Commission
FROM: Alan Richman, Planning Office
RE: Agate Court Project - Conceptual Subdivision/PUD
DATE: May 7 , 1985
LOCATION: All of Block 17 , City and Townsite of Aspen (Lots A, B, C, D,
E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, 0, P, Q, R, and S) .
ZONING: This 54 , 000 square foot parcel is zoned R-6 PUD.
APPLICANT'S REQUEST: The applicant is requesting approval of conceptual
subdivision and PUD for the redevelopment of Block 17 . This proposal
is for the demolition of all existing structures and the resu division
of the property into six single-family lots and two duplex lots.
PLANNING OFFICE REVIEW:
Background
In April of 1984 , you reviewed a proposal by the Stevenson Building
Co. to redevelop the Agate property. That proposal was also for six
single-family homes and two duplexes. The applicant also intended to
request variances in height and floor area ratios. After a few
meetings with you, they decided not to exercise their option and the
property remained in the ownership of C. M. (Butch) Clark.
In October of 1984 , you reviewed a request presented by Tom Wells to
either remove the PUD designation from the parcel or to allow its
subdivision (and review as a PUD) without architectural review as
required by Article VIII, Planned Unit Development. Your response to
that request was that the most visually sensitive area is along
Seventh St. (Hwy. 82) and that you wanted to review the design of the
first two units to be placed in proximity to the highway and the
landscaping which would be placed between these houses and the highway.
You also denied the applicant ' s request to remove the PUD designation
from the property.
At your meeting of March 19, 1985 , concern was expressed about the
placement of structures along Seventh Street. The ongoing planning
work for a new Highway 82 alignment proposes the four-laning of the
segment of the Highway along the west border of this block as a
secondary alternative. It was suggested that the Planning Office meet
with the applicant and his legal counsel to explore alternative
development patterns for the Agate block. Colette Penne and Tom Baker
held this meeting with the applicant and found that no alternative was
acceptable to both the Planning Office and the applicant. The purpo.;e
of this memo is, therefore, to provide you with an updated review of
the project from which you should take a recommending action to Council
on this conceptual proposal.
Purposes of PUD
Section 24-8.1 of the Municipal Code states that the purpose of the
Planned Unit Development article "is to encourage flexibility, innovation
and variety in the development of land to provide performance criteria
for PUD' s which will :
(a) "Promote greater variety in the type, design and layout of
buildings ;
(b) Improve the design, character and quality of new development;
(c) Promote more efficient use of land and public streets,
utilities and governmental services ;
(d) Preserve open space as development occurs;
(e) Provide procedures so as to relate the type, design and
layout of residential development to a particular site and
thus encourage the preservation of the site ' s unique,
natural and scenic features ; and
(f) Achieve a beneficial land use relationship with surrounding
area".
Conceptual Presentation
The conceptual presentation requirements include a statement by the
applicant as to the planning objectives to to be achieved by the
planned unit development through the particular approach chosen,
including any specific advantages that a PUD offers as opposed to a
conventional subdivision. In addition, future ownership of all
portions of the property is to be projected. Other conceptual require-
ments include a description of approximate location of structures,
density, use and types of buildings, and location of common open space,
park and recreation areas. Finally, you are to be provided with
general landscaping renderings of the proposed improvements which,
although preliminary, are of sufficient detail to apprise the commission
of the exterior design, bulk and mass of the development and its
relationship to terrain features of the site.
This proposal is for six single residences and two duplex structures.
The duplexes will be placed on 9,000 sq. ft. lots which border Seventh
Street. These lots will be made up of original townsite lots A, B, C,
and K, L, M. The six single family lots are proposed to be 6 , 000
sq.ft. lots formed along original townsite lot lines. The applicant
wants to subdivide these lots, but does not want to design or build the
structures. He intends to market the lots so that each purchaser can
design his or her own structure. The Planning Office feels that this
concept has merit and that such an approach satisfies the criteria of
achieving a beneficial land use relationship with surrounding areas
and the criteria of promoting greater variety in the type and design
of buildings. The West End neighborhoods to the east, north and south
of this parcel are all subdivided along original townsite lot lines
and a variety of architectural styles exists on each block. Allowing
the Agate block to be developed without a totally planned concept is
an interesting approach that we support.
The design of the two duplexes will be as shown on the submission.
The architectural concept for these structures appears to be suitable
for this site. No variances are being requested for these structures
and the single-family houses to be designed are intended to conform to
R-6 area and bulk requirements. Vehicle access will be from the alley
into "auto courts" with parking spaces off these entrances. The alley
access is preferable, in our opinion, to curb cuts. The Engineering
Department feels that the cut for the driveway into the auto court is
excessive, and they propose that it be narrowed to 26 ' (from 66 ' ) so
that additional open space is provided and access to the dumpster is
still maintained. In addition, Engineering recommends that under-
grounding of utilities be a condition of approval.
Access to the single-family residence is as yet undefined. The
applicant intends to "encourage the purchasers of the lots to utilize
the Agate Court roadway for automobile access, thus further minimizing
additional curb cuts". The Planning Office feels that since the alley
is being proposed as the access to the duplexes, the six single-family
lots should be limited to alley access and trash access for these
homes should also be in the alley. Six curb cuts are unnecessary, and
do not represent "efficient use of land and public streets" as noted
in the criteria above.
The site plan appears to propose that the alley be accessible from
both Sixth and Seventh Street. We definitely feel that the alley
- 2 -
should be closed at Seventh Street. The landscaped strip along
Seventh Street should continue unbroken and the alleyway should
terminate at the duplex driveways. Interaction of vehicles turning
into the development or entering onto the highway from the alley would
be a hazardous situation and should be avoided. The current situation
with the alley behind the Hickory House should not be repeated one
block away. This portion of Seventh Street is also a bus route and a
bus stop should be provided at the corner of Seventh and Bleeker.
The current proposal is for 10 units and a unit verification completed
by the Building Department and Planning Office indicated that 24 units
currently exist in the Agate. All the units have been used for long-
term rental. Five units (with a total of 11 bedrooms) fall within
employee housing price guidelines. Since no condominiumization is
being proposed, the Housing Authority has no jurisdiction to require
replacement of any employee housing units. There are several trade-
offs in this situation. One of the most unsightly and visually
important blocks in town is proposed to be upgraded in return for the
loss of some employee housing without replacement. Additionally, the
project represents a net decrease in units on the block to a density
more in keeping with the West End, which is also a desirable result.
The landscaping proposal is very sketchy at this point. It is our
opinion that you can require more information at this conceptual stage
or defer your review of the proposed landscaping to the Preliminary
stage. The applicant mentions in the text that six trees are slated
for removal . The comments of the Parks Department have been re-
submitted and Jim Holland pointed out in a recent discussion that
large trees like several of the ones growing on this property are the
reason that the ordinance to protect them was adopted. He recommends
that the applicant try to design around them. Many of the trees are
too large to be successfully transplanted. Attention to these questions
of tree removal and replacement of landscaping elements must be
addressed in greater detail by the applicant. We do not feel that
this site planning element should be left unaddressed simply because a
standard lot-line subdivision is being proposed.
In addition, the parking shown for the duplex units is two spaces per
unit. Since the requirement in the R-6 zone is for one space per
bedroom, we assume that each unit in the duplex structure will have
only two bedrooms. An indication of a parking configuration or
limitation on bedrooms in the single-family residences is important to
assure that a high-level of on-street parking is not being encouraged
by an approval of this concept.
The critical planning issue affecting this site is the analysis of
planning alternatives for the entrance to Aspen. As you are aware, the
message that the City Council sen to the Highway Department is that
both the "direct approach" and existing alignments should be reviewed
in the update of the SH 82 EIS. Given this action, the Planning
Office feels that our planning and land use review activities must
respect both potential alignments.
Four laning of the existing alignment will result in a decibel level
produced by traffic that makes homes on Lots A, B, K and L "uninhabitable"
by federal standards. As is explained more fully below, since this
site is designated as a PUD and not simply subject to subdivision
review, this impact must be considered in relation to the intent and
purposes of PUD.
CONCLUSION: In our opinion, the key to reviewing the conceptual PUD
for the Agate Court is to measure how well it achieves the intents and
purposes of PUD. This site was zoned PUD some time ago, and differs
from many other PUD sites in that it is flat and does not contain
natural hazards such as floodplains or steep slopes. We have, therefore,
had to infer the reason the site may have been designated for planned
unit review from its location and current use pattern.
When we initiated the review of this project, we felt that the rationale
for the PUD designation was likely its visibility from SH 82 and the
- 3 -
desire of the community to see an integrated plan for this prominent
block at the entrance to town. We felt that proper landscaping along
Seventh Street and a theme for the block, including setbacks, would
probably meet the Community' s needs for the site and upgrade what is
clearly an unsightly property.
During the review process we have become convinced that a single
design theme for all the units in the project is probably not necessary
and that the applicant ' s proposal to leave their design to the eventual
owners is acceptable. However, during the review process we have also
learned that the PUD could have been placed on the property in recog-
nition of the potential for highway expansion onto this site. The
time of the last Citywide rezoning (mid 1970 ' s) followed a period of
intense transportation planning, not unlike that which we are presently
undertaking. It is not hard to imagine that the planners at that time
were aware of the potential development conflicts on this site and
applied the PUD designation to permit flexibility in design to achieve
community goals, yet allow the property to be developed.
The applicant ' s proposal does not take advantage of the flexibility
offered by the PUD regulations. By ignoring the PUD flexibility, the
applicant is unable to meet the following PUD intents and purposes:
1. The project does not efficiently use land and public streets,
nor does it "achieve a beneficial land use relationship with
the surrounding area". The placement of two duplexes within
a proposed highway alignment is contrary to good community
planning by reducing our options to meet the public safety
and general welfare needs of residents and visitors .
Through use of PUD techniques, the applicant could easily
achieve the density requested and yet achieve beneficial
public purposes. Improvements could also be made to the
access plan to eliminate the curb cuts to the six single
family units and to reduce the width of the alley so as to
better utilize the land within the site.
2. The project does not demonstrate "preservation of the site' s
unique natural and scenic features ". House placement
results in the removal of six trees on the site. Jim
Holland feels that the design should avoid this significant
impact. Once again, use of PUD flexibility could greatly
enhance the development, without loss of requested density.
RECOMMENDATION: Based on the above conclusions, the Planning Office
recommends that you recommend that City Council deny the applicants
proposal and encourage the submission of a new conceptual application
which conforms to PUD procedures and purposes.
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' E E 9J h
1[�
MEMORANDUM I ,
TO: Colette Penne, Planning
FROM: Bill Drueding, Zoning Enforcement Officer
DATE: March 21, 1985
RE: Agate Construction Project
(a) Setbacks in R-6 Zone (Area & Bulk)
Frontyard 10'
Sideyard 6.66' (Section 24-3.7(f)3)
Rearyard 15'
Site plan indicates a wrong rear setback, front setback and side
if applicant wants to build to allowable setbacks.
(b) Applicant should remember that height is measured from existing
grade (Section 24-3.7(g))
(c) (Section 7-141(g) (1)) Applicant should be aware that on corner
lots, berms, fences, shrubs, etc. , can only be 42" high for a
distance of 30' from the corner of the property.
(d) A landscape plan should be provided for any tree removal per Section
13-76
WD/ar
MEMORANDUM D g15 Min
To: Colette Penne
2211116
1g
/
From: Elyse Elliott ti
Date: February 21, 1985
Re: Agate Court Project Conceptual Subdivision
Jinx Caparrella of the Electric Department recently sent us
a memo describing the steps necessary for undergrounding the
utilities in Block 17 .
We recommend that this be one of the conditions for approval
for this project.
M E M O R A N D U M 5
TO: Colette Penne, Planner PI
FROM: J. Lucas Adamski , Housing Director
DATE: February 13 , 1985
SUBJECT: Agate Court Project Conceptual Subdivision/PUD
OVERVIEW:
The applicant is requesting Conceptual Subdivision approval
pursuant to Section 20-10 and Conceputal PUD pursuant to Section
24-8.7 and 24-8.13 . for the redevelopment of the Agate property,
which is located at Block 17, City and Township of Aspen. The
Block currently consists of eighteen 30 ' x 100 ' Tots. The resub-
division proposed would consist of two 90 ' x 100 ' , each developed
with a duplex residence and six 60 ' x 100 ' residential lots, each
developed with a single family residence.
All of the units are exempt from the provisions of Section 24-11 ,
.2 . (a) of the growth management quota system by virtue of 24
units having been verified by letter dated November 3 , 1982 , from
the Zoning Enforcement Office (Appendix A) and thus may be recon-
structed without GMP review.
HOUSING AUTHORITY REVIEW:
The Housing Authority is in favor of the redevelopment of the
existing area which is a main entrance into town although the
potential benefits are not under the Housing Authority' s purview.
The applicant has represented that he will creat a landscaped
irregular and naturally appearing berm and buffer area along the
entire most westerly lot lines of the subdivision to enhance the
visual impression of the redevelopment.
The Housing Authority agrees with the applicant' s representation
that no employee housing is required by the City Code as the
duplex lots are not going to be condominiumized. Therefore, the
Housing Authority does not request conditions for the approval
of this application. However, the Housing Authority is concerned
the possible displacement of employees who may be housed at the
Agate Lodge. The attached rental rates for persons currently
living at the Agate fall within the employee rental guidelines
and may indicate some employees are living at the Agate Lodge.
The Housing Authority would strongly recommend working with the
Planning Office to consider a Code Amendment to address the issue
of employees that are being displaced when redevelopment of this
nature occur.
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Regular Meeting Planning and Zoning Commission October 2. 1984
Chairman Perry Harvey called the meeting to order at 5: 03 p.m. with
commissioners Jasmine Tygre, Pat Fallin, Welton Anderson, Lee
Pardee, David White, Roger Hunt, and Mary Peyton present.
COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS
Harvey commented on the letter sent to the commissioners whose
terms have expired. Harvey encouraged Hunt, Tygre, and Pardee to
definitely reapply. The city is now following proper procedures;
when a term expires the opened position is publicly noticed and new
applications are encouraged. Hunt requested a reaffirmation of
his position now. Is he allowed to sit as a commissioner until
he is reappointed or relieved? Harvey replied that Hunt can sit
on the Commission until relieveti.
(Jasmine Tygre arrives in the chambers. )
Harvey reminded the commissioners there is a joint meeting with
City Council on October 15th at 5: 00 p.m. in the council cham-
bers. This will be a work session on SPA. Alan Richman, planning
office , remarked that Council has many questions about the
resolution. He preferred the commissioners as opposed to the staff
answer the councilmembers' questions about the resolution. He
wanted the councilmembers to see that the commissioners support
the resolution.
Harvey asked Tygre if she has reapplied. Tygre replied yes.
White reminded the commissioners that tomorrow at 4 : 20 p. m. in
the council chambers Council will resume its discussion over
splitting the planning department.
MINUTES
September 18. 1984: Roger Hunt moved to approve the minutes of
September 18, 1984; seconded by Pat Fallin. All in favor; motion
carried.
pRE-APPLICATION MEETING
AGATE LODGE
Harvey said this is a pre-application meeting on the Agate Lodge.
The problem is that the PUD requires architectural review. The
applicant requests an approach to mandatory PUD that does not
require the review of the architectural design.
Colette Penne, planning office , reminded the Commission it
reviewed the application on the Agate which was submitted by
1
•
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Regular Meeting Planning and Zoning Commission October 2. 1984
Stevenson and his group a few months ago. They had the property
under option from Butch Clark . Stevenson' s group presented a
plan which had some problems. The Commission defined those
problems and suggested revisions in certain areas of the plan.
Stevenson' s group did that, but the Commission still had problems
with certain fundamental areas in the site planning. The Commission
again directed the group to address the issues. The Stevenson' s
group decided it did not want to work with the city; the group
decided not to purchase the property.
The property is still owned by Butch Clark. Clark wants the
Commission to discuss why the mandatory PUD was imposed on the
property. Is there an approach which would not require the
design of the houses and would not require the review of the
architectural design. Could the Commission just review a site
plan? Would the Commission support the removal of the PUD so
that the parcel is zoned R-6? The R-6 zone would be in conjunction
with the west end neighborhood. Clark does not want to design
and build the entire project. Clark wants to go through full
subdivision, divide the parcel into into single family and duplex
lots , and sell those subdivided lots to individuals who would
design their own houses.
Penne reviewed the requirements of the PUD and the feelings of
the planning office. Remember this is only a pre-application
conference and discussion. One Question the Commission needs to
answer is whether or not to amend the code in the PUD section.
Would the Commission support removing a PUD through a rezoning?
Architectural design and landscaping plans are required under the
preliminary PUD plan. The code reads that the plans should be in
sufficient detail to enable the planning commission to re-evaluate
the architectural and landscaping design features of the develop-
ment. The plans should show the location of floor area of both
existing and proposed buildings, the maximum heights, the types of
dwelling units, etc. The Commission is provided a commencement
and completion construction table. The Commission is provided
preliminary elevation and perspective drawings of all structures
and improvements.
The proposal by Tom Wells, representative for Mr. Clark , is for
full subdivision of the property. Those lots would be sold as
raw land for the development of single family units or duplex
units without architectural design. There possibly would be a
site plan. This proposal is difficult. The division is along
original townsite lots. Wells has indicated his client would be
flexible about lot arrangements offered under a PUD. But the
applicant does not want to design houses. The PUD can be utilized
2
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Regular Meeting Planning and Zoning Commission October 2. 1984
in terms of the land planning. But, the applicant does not want
to go through all the requirements of PUD.
Planning office believed that the PUD overlay was placed on that
particular property because of its visual sensitivity. The
property has a real impact on the entrance to Aspen. Therefore,
it is important to review more than a site plan for the
property. There are no slope or viewplane problems. Wells did
mention in his letter of application, which is included in the
commissioners ' packet, that originally the property was used for
a lodge. But, during the L-3 rezoning process the property was used
for long term residential accommodations. The argument by Wells
is that things have changed and therefore the PUD is not appropriate
anymore. Planning office disagrees. Nothing has changed. The
use on the property is not as important as its exterior , visual
impact.
Penne recommended a solution to accomplish what the applicant
wants. Perhaps the parcel should be zoned R-6 without a PUD
overlay. The disadvantage with that solution is it does not
provide the flexibility to be innovative with the property. R-6
has a certain amount of compatibility with the neighborhood.
Many R-6 neighborhoods exist along the original townsite lots .
The houses in those neighborhoods are heterogeneous ; there are
Victorians next to contemporary structures.
Harvey understood the Commission' s concerns during the original
application process was the visibility of the property (it is the
first piece of property that one sees as one comes into town) ;
the trees; and the elimination of the alleys. If a PUD land plan
were done then the city might end up with a proper design. Deal
with regular townsite lots then.
Hunt remarked given the greater amount of setback on Seventh
Street there would be more natural landscaping needed to buffer
the noise from the dwelling units. That corner is noisy. An
audio type barrier is needed. The PUD discussion anticipated
the development of the property into a semi-commercial use. He
did not have a problem with a straight subdivision. But there
will be problems subdividing along the straight existing lot
lines, especially for the lots along Seventh Street.
Tom Wells , representative for the applicant, investigated what
was meant by "more creativity allowed within a PUD. " He misunder-
stood the PUD process in Aspen. He assumed that PUD could be
used either for full blown developments or only for land subdivi-
sions. Most communities provide the options. Usually one could
take advantage of the mixing and matching of density and/or land
3
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Regular Meeting Planning and Zoning Commission October 2. 1984
uses allowed in the process. In Aspen one has to go through
steps A to Z , there are no interim steps . The system is built
into the PUD ordinance. An applicant has no choice to not fully
develop a project . The PUD ordinance will not accept Clark ' s
intentions of designing a buffer and using some lot lines. The
PUD requires review of a development through the entire process.
Wells did not suggest eliminating the PUD. The PUD is the one
chance for the city to look at a very sensitive lot. He agreed
with certain points in the planning office memo dated October 2,
1984. The block is one of the most visually sensitive in Aspen
and should be developed in a manner which enhances the image of
the community. The PUD overlay will allow for innovation in the
site plan, retention of some major trees , a provision for a
buffer along Seventh Street, and clustering of lots or structures.
He agreed with that statement 100% . The lot is very sN�. ial.
The Agate Lodge is certainly substandard and has been that way
for a long time. A PUD was imposed on the assumption that the
property would be developed as a lodge. The city wanted to make
sure a good project was developed there. Meanwhile , the owner
voluntarily engaged in long term rentals . The property was
under long term rental when the L-3 zone which preserved lodge
zoning was established. The property did not qualify for the L-3
status.
The PUD still exists. Clark can develop the property himself. He
can hire an architect to design a total development plan. He can
find another developer who would accept that design. Or he can
sell the property to another developer who would provide an
alternative design. The extreme solution is to break the property
along the lot lines into normal patterns of the R-6 zone and not
respect the fact that the lot is special. House sites could be
established and sold as residential lots, either as single family
units or duplex units, with no change in density, no change in
unit count. But the code does not address this. These individual
lots could be designated with a PUD overlay, similar to Castle
Creek Drive. He encouraged the varied natural textures of the
west end community over a homogeneous development like the
Villas. The west end is picturesque : new and remodeled Victorians
side by side with contemporary architecture. He preferred to go
through the PUD process as a land plan process. The R-6 underlying
zoning establishes the density, therefore, there is no change in
the density.
Creativity can be established under a PUD. Perhaps berms and
walls and landscaping can be established on Seventh Street to
protect the visually sensitive area before the development is
4
RECORD OP PROCEEDINGS
Reaular Meeting Planning and Zoning Commission October 2. 1984
built. He cannot detail the exact conditions. But, it is not
realistic to establish building envelopes or driveways or to
determine which trees to save under the individually owned
concept . He cannot dictate to everyone how to design their
houses. He envisioned many small duplexes , similar to the
project for Doremus on Smuggler between Seventh and Eighth. He
preferred a design of quiet small buildings. An entire block of
similarly designed structures would not be interesting . He
favored the varied textures of the west end along that visually
vulnerable block.
Harvey quoted from the planning office memo dated October 2, 1984,
page one, paragraph one:
"sufficient detail to enable the planning Commission to
evaluate the architectural, landscaping, and design features
of the planned unit development. . . the plan should show the
location and floor area of all existing and proposed buildings,
structures . . . including maximum heights, types of dwelling
units. . . "
Harvey asked why certain requirements cannot be waived within the
PUD process. Richman replied the code does not allow the Commission
to waive those requirements. Harvey argued the code allows for
variances within a PUD. Perhaps an architectural control committee
can be established for the project. Pardee reasoned there is a
PUD overlay because the site is visually critical. Many times
mandatory PUD is placed on a property for slope reduction without
requiring architectural plans. The critical reason mandatory PUD
is imposed on some properties is because of the slope. The area
reduced by the slope affects the density. The critical reason the
PUD is imposed on this lot is because of its visual vulnera-
bility. Therefore, he does see a problem with a site or land
PUD.
Penne explained there is a problem. The only thing that is exempt
under a mandatory PUD is a single family house. Even the owners
of duplexes , like Roush, had to come in with a request for
exemption from mandatory PUD. Pardee suggested an exemption from
PUD if the applicant were to agree to restrictions defined on the
property by the Commission. Penne argued a PUD may be desirable
for the buffer zone. Harvey interpreted Pardee ' s recommendation:
blackmail an applicant from an exemption from PUD with an approved
land plan. Pardee said the Commission is not so concerned with
the area to the east. He would insist there be a buffer on
Seventh Street. He would insist the design plans for the first
two homes on Seventh Street be reviewed. Exempt the other lots
from PUD . Under PUD he would be willing to grant the allowed
5
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Regular Meeting Planning and Zoning Commission October 2. 1984
maximum FAR for a 6 ,000 square foot lot even though each lot may
be less than 6,000 square feet. The lots may lose land, approxi-
mately 500 square feet, to the buffer zone.
Wells commented that Clark ' s original preliminary layout included
two duplex lots on Seventh Street, which provided 90 feet to play
with. That layout provided flexibility to create a meandering
buffer. Pardee requested the trees be saved and the alley be
maintained. Harvey interjected the issue is not what the Commission
wants to see in the PUD, but the issue is how can Clark ' s request
be done legally within a PUD. If there is not a legal solution,
then should the PUD be removed.
Richman explained this request can be accomplished through an
exemption from mandatory PUD. If the Commission were to find the
development meets the intents and purposes of PUD then the
applicant would not have to go through all the rigorous requirements
of PUD. However , the applicant would still have to go through full
subdivision. This project would have to go before the Commission
and Council twice . He did not know if Council would agree to
this concept. The Commission is entrusted with exemptions from
mandatory PUD. If the project were consistent with PUD intent
then the project might not have to meet the PUD requirements.
From the perspective of design and results Wells said he did not
have a problem with Pardee' s recommendation. However, that solution
still forces Clark into either designing or developing the two
duplexes on Seventh Street. Perhaps there could be an agreement
that the city maintains total control. With the understanding
that their is PUD, that their is a buffer, the Commission can review
those two duplexes as they come along as a neighborhood PUD
overlay.
Wells specified that Clark' s original plan included two duplex
lots 90 feet from Seventh Street, and three single family units
on each side of Sixth or a total of six single family units.
White remembered the Commission' s concern during the review of
the original application was the buffer , the trees , and the
alley. There was a concern about the homogeneity of the houses.
He favored the varied textures. If there were someway the city
could have its concerns on Seventh Street mitigated and the
applicant could accomplish his goals then he would be willing to
work out a system whereby free enterprise was not limited in the
less critical portion of the entire site. Perhaps an easement is
the answer.
Wells assured the Commission that the R-6 zone spells out height,
6
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Regular Meeting Planning and Zoning Commission October 2. 1984
setbacks, floor area, parking , everything. It is only the
aesthetics of the design concept that the Commission is required
to review. White encouraged the solution be as simple as possible.
He would be willing to remove the restrictions of a PUD on much
of the site if the city were to receive what it wants on Seventh
Street. Wells remarked the city does not have an architectural
review committee.
Hunt recommended that the Commission establish the preconditions
which the Commission has stated before. If lot iLi were to stay
within those prior stated conditions for the entire PUD then the
Commission would define the lot for FAR purposes as 6 ,000 square
feet even though the lot was only 5 ,500 square feet. If all the
prior conditions were met by the individual lots then what
would be the problem. If the lots were to maintain the precondi-
tions then the lots would be exempt from the PUD. Require that
the two lots on Seventh Street have a full PUD.
Richman suggested the Commission come to a consensus as to
whether the applicant ' s approach is acceptable. Do not design
the legal solution, let the planning office discuss a legal
solution to the problem with the city attorney. If the Commission
were not worried about consistent architecture across the entire
PUD then that would be all the planning office needs to know to
work with the applicant.
Tygre noted the PUD overlay will have to remain. If the buffer
zone were created the PUD would have to remain to address the
changes in the sizes and arrangements of the houses.
Harvey said the site plan indicates conforming lots ; the con-
figuration is six thousand square feet, six thousand square feet,
six thousand square feet, and nine thousand square feet. The
buffer area would be some kind of easement. The difficulty is
creating the mechanism which would provide for permanent maintenance
of the buffer zone, whether it be a stonewall with ivy or whatever .
If the owner of this particular lot were to grant an easement to
the city, then how would the buffer zone be maintained by future
property owners. There is no incentive to maintain the buffer.
The buffer zone generates nonconforming lots on Seventh Street.
The critical question is should the city require a PUD on those
two duplex lots fronting Seventh. Should the city require the
owner or developer to create the buffer the way the city wants?
If so, should the buffer become a common element in an homeowners
organization even though those two duplex lot owners would
maintain the buffer? On the other hand, if an easement were
given to the city, then the city could create and maintain the
buffer area as it wants.
7
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Regular Meeting Planning and Zoning Commission October 2. 1984
Pardee asked if a duplex or a single family structure is going on
the duplex lot . If a duplex were built there, then it would
occupy a greater portion of the extra lot. The city would not gain
that much. The concern is the size, description, and looks of the
two duplexes or single family homes. The other concern is the
appearance of the buffer. He would not release anything until
the city has reviewed those two lots.
Wells repeated he still does not want to design the buildings. The
city is forcing Clark to develop something he does not want to
develop. Design flexibility is important. Flexibility is much
greater with a duplex on 90 feet rather than with a single family
house on 60 feet.
Pardee opposed the development of the six family units without
addressing the two most critical lots. He did not want to see
the most critical lots developed or reviewed last. Pardee would
not release any PUD until the Commission has reviewed those two
parcels and reviewed the mitigations.
Wells commented that the original layout by Clark included a
buffer. But the original plan did not consider who would maintain
the buffer. It would be advantageous if the city maintained the
buffer . The city could coordinate the buffer with the island.
The city could define and maintain the kinds of trees and shrubs
in area. Then Commission can review the design when the duplexes
come up for development.
Pardee asked if the same setbacks would be maintained for a
duplex. How much would be given to the city? Harvey answered
that would be determined through the process of negotiation.
Harvey asked if the Commission favored an approach to enable the
Commission to do a PUD land plan for the critical Seventh Street
frontage and if the Commission favored retaining the PUD overlay
on those two lots . Richman interjected that PUD involves a
minimum of 27 ,000 square feet. This solution is not workable.
Harvey asked the Commission ' s position about exploring a thirty
foot easement. Harvey concluded the solution will probably be some
agreed upon land plan and easement granted to the city. The city
would then maintain that sensitive part of the property.
Penne remarked the Commission may not want to extract the maximum
density for the property. Even if the Commission were to want a
buffer without a PUD there might not be room for maximum allowed
density. The suggestion to allow the maximum FAR that the block
will absorb is not necessarily a good solution. If houses with
8
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Regular Meeting Planning and Zoning Commission October 2. 1984
maximum FAR were allowed and if the houses were grouped more
closely together, then there might result a tighter grouping of
larger houses. The visual impact would be massive. Wells maintained
that the lot sizes did not have to be limited. Keep the full PUD
process for the two sensitive lots on Seventh. Richman reiterated
that cannot be done, PUD requires 27 ,000 square feet. Hunt said
keep the PUD on the entire block but exempt the lots which comply
with the preconditions from the PUD requirements.
Richman supported the exemption approach. Keep the PUD on the
entire property. Go through PUD review procedures. The Commission
could determine that full architecture was not appropriate and
could exempt the individual owners from the full architectural
procedures if the applicant were to demonstrate the alleviation
of the Commission' s concerns with sufficient detailed information.
If the Commission were to agree with this concept then planning
office with the city attorney could try to design a program to
make that happen.
Pardee asked the Commission if it wants to review the architectural
design of the two houses on Seventh Street. Seven commissioners
favored this ; one opposed. Pardee commented that it was a
mistake to impose the PUD on the entire block. But he would not
support removing the PUD until the two most critical parcels are
reviewed. Fallin did not support carte blanche exemption nor did
she support the request by the applicant.
PUBLIC HEARING
ASPEN MOUNTAIN LODGE
CONCEPTUAL GMP SUBMISSION AND SCORING SESSION
Harvey opened the public hearing.
. Penne provided the commissioners a project profile and the score
sheets. There is only one application. It is for 4 ,500 square
feet of commercial space. The space is part of the Aspen Mountain
Lodge project. The applicant came through the original lodge
competition with a proposal for 8 ,500 square feet of commercial
space. The commercial space has been reduced to 4, 500 . The
commercial space is on the ground floor of the hotel. The space
is for retail space for permitted uses in the cl zone; the same
uses permitted in cc with the provision that the space is at
street level with lodging above. The quota available in the cl
and other zones is 3,000 square feet. The request is for a year
and one-half quota.
Harvey acknowledged that 3,000 square feet is available in the 1984
quota. But, how many square feet did Council eliminate in 1983?
9
MEMORANDUM
TO: Aspen Planning & Zoning Commission
FROM: Colette Penne, Planning Office
RE: Agate Court Project - Conceptual Subdivision/PUD
DATE: March 19, 1985
LOCATION: All of Block 17, City and Townsite of Aspen (Lots A, B, C, D,
E, F, G, H, I, K, L, M, N, O, P,Q, R, and S)
ZONING: This 54,000 square foot parcel is zoned R-6 PUD.
APPLICANT'S REQUEST: The applicant is requesting approval of conceptual
subdivision and PUD for the redevelopment of Block 17. This proposal
is for the demolition of all existing structures and the resubdivision
of the property into six single-family lots and two duplex lots.
PLANNING OFFICE REVIEW:
Background
In April of 1984, you reviewed a proposal by the Stevenson Building
Co. to redevelop the Agate property. That proposal was also for six
single-family homes and two duplexes. The applicant also intended to
request variances in height and floor area ratios. After a few
meetings with you, they decided not to exercise their option and the
property remained in the ownership of C. M. (Butch) Clark.
In October of 1984, you reviewed a request presented by Tom Wells to
either remove the PUD designation from the parcel or to allow its
subdivision (and review as a PUD) without architectural review as
required by Article VIII, Planned Unit Development. Your response to
that request was that the most visually sensitive area is along
Seventh St. (Hwy. 82) and that you wanted to review the design of the
first two units to be placed in proximity to the highway and the
landscaping which would be placed between these houses and the highway.
Purposes of PUD
Section 24-8.1 of the Municipal Code states that the purpose of the
Planned Unit Development article "is to encourage flexibility, innovation
and variety in the development of land to provide performance criteria
for PUD' s which will :
(a) "Promote greater variety in the type, design and layout of
buildings ;
(b) Improve the design, character and quality of new development;
(c) Promote more efficient use of land and public streets,
utilities and governmental services ;
(d) Preserve open space as development occurs;
(e) Provide procedures so as to relate the type, design and
layout of residential development to a particular site and
thus encourage the preservation of the site ' s unique,
natural and scenic features; and
(f) Achieve a beneficial land use relationship with surrounding
area".
Conceptual Presentation
The conceptual presentation requirements include a statement by the
applicant as to the planning objectives to be achieved by the planned
unit development through the particular approach chosen, including any
specific advantages that a PUD offers as opposed to a conventional
subdivision. In addition, future ownership of all portions of the
property is to be projected. Other conceptual requirements include a
description of approximate location of structures, density, use and
types of buildings and location of common open space, park and recreation
areas. Finally, you are to be provided with general landscaping
renderings of the proposed improvements which, although preliminary,
are of sufficient detail to apprise the commission of the exterior
design, bulk and mass of the development and its relationship to
terrain features of the site.
This proposal is for six single residences and two duplex structures.
The duplexes will be placed on 9, 000 sq.ft. lots which border Seventh
Street. These lots will be made up of original townsite lots A, B, C,
and R, L, M. The six single family lots are proposed to be 6,000 sq.ft.
lots formed along original townsite lot lines. The applicant wants to
subdivide these lots, but does not want to design or build the struc-
tures. He intends to market the lots so that each purchaser can
design his or her own structure. The Planning Office feels that this
concept has merit and that such an approach satisfies the criteria of
achieving a beneficial land use relationship with surrounding areas
and the criteria of promoting greater variety in the type and design
of buildings. The West End neighborhoods to the east, north and south
of this parcel are all subdivided along original townsite lot lines
and a variety of architectural styles exists on each block. Allowing
the Agate block to be developed without a totally planned concept is
an interesting approach that we support.
The design of the two duplexes will be as shown on the submission.
The structures appear to be suitable for this site. No variances are
being requested for these structures and the single-family houses to
be designed are intended to conform to R-6 area and bulk requirements.
Vehicle access will be from the alley into "auto courts" with parking
spaces off these entrances. The alley access is preferable, in our
opinion, to curb cuts. The Engineering Department feels that the cut
for the driveway into the auto court is excessive, and they propose
that it be narrowed to 26 ' ( from 66 ' ) so that additional open space is
provided and access to the dumpster is still maintained. In addition,
Engineering recommends that undergrounding of utilities be a condition
of approval.
Access to the singly-family residences is as yet undefined. The
applicant intends to "encourage the purchasers of the lots to utilize
the Agate Court roadway for automobile access, thus further minimizing
additional curb cuts". The Planning Office feels that since the alley
is being proposed as the access to the duplexes, the six single-
family lots should be limited to alley access and trash access for
these homes should also be in the alley. Six curb cuts are unnecessary,
and do not represent "efficient use of land and public streets" as
noted in the criteria above.
The site plan appears to propose that the alley be accessible from
both Sixth and Seventh Streets. We definitely feel that the alley
should be closed at Seventh Street. The landscaped strip along
Seventh Street should continue unbroken and the alleyway should
terminate at the duplex driveways. Interaction of vehicles turning
into the development or entering onto the highway from the alley would
be a hazardous situation and should be avoided. The current situation
with the alley behind the Hickory House should not be repeated one
block away. This portion of Seventh Street is also a bus route and a
bus stop should be provided at the corner of Seventh and Sleeker.
The work presently underway on a new highway alignment for the entrance
to Aspen could greatly affect this property. Depending on the alter-
native finally chosen, it is possible that development on Lots A, B, R,
& L, might be a problem. If the existing alignment is four-laned, the
decibel level produced by traffic would make these lots "uninhabitable"
by federal standards. Since the highway alternative work will not be
- 2 -
completed during the course of the review of this project, we can only
advise that our preferred solution is that options be kept open. To
move this development back from those lots would allow for a much
wider buffer between the traffic and the houses, which in any scenario,
would be a positive result.
Since the PUD designation exists on the property and is not being
taken advantage of in the current proposal, it could be implemented to
redesign the site plan if the same number of units is important. It
is also possible that the floor area ratio attributable to the affected
lots could be transferred to the remaining build-out and fewer units
would be built. If these four lots were left open in the plan, each
side of the block would still contain 21,000 sq. ft. Lots could be
varied in size under the PUD so that the 10 units desired could still
be accommodated on the block. Another alternative if standard lots
are to be formed, is to reduce the development to 8 units.
The current proposal is for 10 units and a unit verification completed
by the Building Department and Planning Office indicated that 24 units
currently exist in the Agate. All the units have been used for long-
term rental. Five units (with a total of 11 bedrooms) fall within
employee housing price guidelines. Since no condominiumization is
being proposed, the Housing Authority has no jurisdiction to require
replacement of any employee housing units. There are several trade-
offs in this situation. One of the most unsightly and visually
important blocks in town is proposed to be upgraded in return for the
loss of some employee housing without replacement. Since an abundance
of units exist, their replacement with 10 units is exempt from Resi-
dential Growth Management Competition. The Building Department has
not commented on this proposal . In an earlier review, they cited
Section 24-3 .7 ( f) ( 3) and Section 24-3 . 7 ( f) ( 6) which deal with
corner lots and yards adjacent to arterial roadways and made a deter-
mination that 6th and 7th Streets require 10 foot setbacks while
Hallam, Bleeker require a 6 2/3 foot setback. Also, if the alley is
not vacated, the rear yard must be 15 feet.
The landscaping proposal is very sketchy at this point. it is our
opinion that you can require more information at this conceptual stage
or defer your review of the proposed landscaping to the Preliminary
review. The applicant mentions in the text that six trees must be
removed, however it is unclear exactly which trees are slated for
removal. The comments of the Parks Department have been re-submitted
and Jim Holland pointed out in a recent discussion that large trees
like several of the ones growing on this property are the reason that
the ordinance to protect them was adopted. He recommends that the
applicant try to design around them. Many of the trees are too large
to be successfully transplanted. Attention to these questions of tree
removal and replacement of landscaping elements must be addressed in
greater detail by the applicant. We do not feel that this site
planning element should be left unaddressed simply because a standard
lot-line subdivision is being proposed.
In addition, the parking shown on the duplex units is two spaces per
unit. Since the requirement in the R-6 zone is for one space per
bedroom, we assume that each unit in the duplex structure will have
only two bedrooms. An indication of a parking configuration or
limitation on bedrooms in the single-family residences is important to
assure that a high-level of on-street parking is not being encouraged
by an approval of this concept.
PLANNING OFFICE RECOMMENDATION: In light of the highway planning work
currently underway and the lack of detail on landscaping and our
inability to discuss new options before the meeting with the owner or
architect because they are both out of town, we recommend that the
Planning and Zoning Commission discuss the concepts of the proposal
and give the applicant some direction on those points we raised that
you request for further revision of the site plan to more fully
address access, landscaping, parking and accommodation of a more
extensive buffer to Highway 82 .
- 3 -
Specifically, the changes we recommend be made are as follows:
1. Accommodate the proposed highway alignment within the design
for the site.
2. Revise the landscaping plan to provide the needed detail
regarding tree removal and replacement.
3. Revise alley access as regards size (66 ' to 26 ' ) and con-
figuration (close Seventh Street Entrance, provide access to
single-family units) .
- 4 -
CITY OF ASPE
130 south galena street D [E@MOVE
aspen, colorado 81611
303-925-2020 - 81985
v
MEMORANDUM
DATE: February 7 , 1985
TO: Colette Penne, Planning Office
FROM: City Attorney
RE : Agate Court Project Conceptual Subdivision/PUD
The City Attorney's office is of the opinion that the conceptual
submission for the Agate Subdivision meets the requirements of the
Municipal Code of the City of Aspen.
MU/mc
7C
ASPENQPITKIN d4EGIOIVAL. ttsu►e_uu
NOV 4 m3
Nobember 3 , 1983
Jon Seigle
Sachs, Klein & Seigle
Attorneys at Law
201 North Mill Street
Aspen, CO 81611
Re: Unit Verification
Agate Lodge
Dear Jon:
This letter contains an inventory of what I observed during
our site inspection on September 30 , 1983 , at the Agate Lodge
property. This will appear similar to the format of your
letter of October 4 , 1983 , with additional comments on my part.
I will not comment as to whether these units are "lodge units" or
"multi-family units" , but I -feel my comments will allow the planning
department to make that determination. I also cannot comment as to
whether all the units were constructed legally. I feel the time
of construction of some of the units may proceed our records.
Basically, the following pages contain observations that I
made regarding present conditions . I hope this is the verification
you need.
Sincerely,
VJ I " 1
William L. Drueding ,
Zoning Enforcement Officer
•
cc: Planning -
Paul Taddune, City Attorney
Wayne Chapman, City Manager
Patsy Newbury, Zoning Official
WLD/ar
mail address:
110 Ea st Hallam Street 506 East Main Street
110 East
Aspen, Colorado 81611 303/925-5973 Aspen, Colorado 81611
-5-
' I
Unit #1 Cabin Unit, containing kitchen facilities. (Sink,
• range, refrigerator) a
Unit #2 Cabin Unit, Studio containing bath, refrigerator,
hot plate (no kitchen plumbing or range) .
Unit #3 Cabin Unit, Studio containing bath, refrigerator,
hot plate (no kitchen plumbing or range) .
Unit #4 Cabin Unit, Studio containing bath, refrigerator,
hot plate (no kitchen plumbing or range) .
Unit #5 Cabin Unit, Studio containing bath, refrigerator,
hot plate (no kitchen plumbing or range) .
Unit #6 Cabin Unit, Studio containing bath, refrigerator,
hot plate (no kitchen plumbing or range) .
Main Lodge - First Floor -
Unit #7 I considered a studio containing: kitchen, bath,
illegal loft, illegal sleeping room.
Unit #8 Studio containing kitchen and bath.
Unit #9 Studio containing bath, stove, refrigerator, but
no kitchen plumbing.
Unit #10 Studio containing bath, stove, refrigerator, but
no kitchen plumbing.
Unit #11 Contained bath and kitchen. Two rooms appeared to be
combined into one unit.
Unit #17 Studio containing range, refrigerator, but
no kitchen sink or plumbing. _ ,_--
Main Lodge - Second Floor
Unit #12 One bedroom containing kitchen and bath facilities.
Unit #13 One bedroom containing bath and kitchen facilities.
Cabin #14 Various chopped-up rooms containing kitchen and bath
facilities.
Cabin #15 Two small bedrooms containing kitchen and bath facilities.
Cabin #16 Two bedrooms containing kitchen and bath facilities .
-6-
Page 2
Unit #18 House containing three bedrooms , bath and kitchen.
Unit #19 Converted chicken coop - studio with kitchen and bath.
This unit also contains a loft and fireplace that should
be considered highly dangerous. I cannot see that this
unit was ever a legal dwelling unit.
Unit #A20 A three bedroom house containing one kitchen and two
baths.
Fourplex: House
Unit #A21 A two bedroom unit containing a kitchen and bath.
Unit #A22 A two bedroom unit containing a kitchen and bath.
r
Unit #A23 A two bedroom unit containing a kitchen and bath.
Unit #A24 A two bedroom unit containing a kitchen and bath.
I feel it should be noted that the lower units A22 and A24 do not
contain proper egress from the bedrooms and should be considered
dangerous as sleeping rooms. I would have to question whether
these units were constructed legally.
Garage - contains a woodworking shop and availability for undetermined
parking.
-7-
SCHEDULE OF RENTS
• Effective February 12, 1985
APPROXIMATE
AGATE LODGE MONTHLY RENT SQUARE FEET
A-1 $340.00 320
A-2 $300.00 216
A-3 $300.00 216
A-4 $300.00 216
A-5 $300.00 216
A-6 $300.00 216
A-7 $565.00 f 672
A-8 $375.00 380 -
A-9 $355.00 300
A-10 $335.00 280
A-11 $400.00 364
A-12 $420.00 494
A-13 $400.00 312
A-14 $375.00 (Keaveny) 416
A-15 $390.00 320
A-16 $750.00 740
A-17 $315.00 304
A-18 $950.00 980
A-19 $420.00 400
A-20 $1120.00 2,217
A-21 $700.00 870
A-22 $640.00 870
A-23 $700.00 1,040
A-24 $640.00 962
13/MISC2/2.12.84
SCHEDULE OF RENTS
Effective February 12, 1985
APPROXIMATE
AGATE LODGE MONTHLY RENT SQUARE FEET
A-1 $340.00 320
A-2 $300.00 216
A-3 $300.00 216
A-4 $300.00 216
A-5 $300.00 216
A-6 $300.00 216
A-7 $565.00 0 672
A-8 $375.00 380
A-9 $355.00 300
A-10 $335.00 280
A-11 $400.00 364
A-12 $420.00 494
A-13 $400.00 312
A-14 $375.00 (Keaveny) 416
A-15 $390.00 320
A-16 $750.00 740
A-17 $315.00 304
A-18 $950.00 980
A-19 $420.00 400
A-20 $1120.00 2,217
A-21 - $700.00 870
A-22 $640.00 870
A-23 $700.00 1,040
A-24 $640.00 962
13/MISC2/2.12.84
p ���o �,�
ASPEN WATER DEPARTMENT taws
MEMORANDUM J
TO: COLETTE PENNE, PLANNING OFFICE
FROM: JIM MARKALUNAS
SUBJECT: AGATE COURT PROJECT CONCEPTUAL SUBDIVISION/PUD
DATE: FEBRUARY 8, 1985
We have reviewed the above referenced project and have no additional comments
at this time, other than those outlined in our correspondence to Doug Allen on
December 17 (see attached) .
JM:ab
MEMORANDUM
TO: ty Attorney
..0 Engineer
viclq.ursing Director
vKkpen Water Dept.
jilpen Consolidated San. District
Parks Dept.
Holy Cross Electric
Fire Chief
Building Dept.
FROM: Colette Penne, Planning Office
RE : Agate Court Project Conceptual Subdivision/PUD
DATE : February 5 , 1985
Attached for your review is an application submitted by Tom Wells ,
Architect, and Doug Allen, Attorney, for their client C. M. Clark, for
the redevelopment of the Agate property which is located at Block 17,
City and Township of Aspen. The Block currently consists of eighteen
30 ' x 100 ' lots. The resubdivision proposed would consist of two 90 '
x 100 ' duplex lots, each developed with a duplex residence and six 60 '
x 100 ' residential lots, each developed with a single family residence.
Please review this material and return your referral comments to the
Planning Office no later than March 1, 1985 , in order for this office
to have adequate time to prepare for its presentation before the P&Z
on March 19th.
Thank you.
AGATE SUBDIVISION
CONCEPTUAL SUBMISSION
Applicant: C. M. Clark
Post Office Box 566
Aspen, Colorado 81612
(303) 925-6969
Attorney for Applicant: Douglas P. Allen
530 East Main Street, First Floor
Aspen, Colorado 81611
(303) 925-8800
Land Planner: Thomas 0. Wells
Thomas Wells & Associates Architects
314 South Mill Street
Aspen, Colorado 81611
(303) 925-7817
TABLE OE CONTENTS
Page
1.0 Project Description 3
2.0 Project Site 3-4
3.0 Application Requirements 4
4.0 Conceptual Subdivision 4
4. 1 Vicinity Map 4
4.2 Sketch Plan 5
4.3 Tabulation of Data 5
4.4 Disclosure of Ownership 5
5.0 Other Considerations 6-7
Appendices
A. Verification of Units
B. Sketch Plan
B-1. Vicinity Map
C. Ownership Certificate
D. Utility Letters
-2-
1.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION.
The Agate Subdivision is a residential redevelopment of
Block 17, City and Townsite of Aspen, a site bounded by Sixth Street,
Seventh Street, Bleeker and Hallam. Block 17 is typical of the City
and Townsite of Aspen Subdivision and consists of eighteen 30' X 100'
lots. The resubdivision will consist of two 90' X 100' duplex lots
developed each with a duplex residence and six 60' X 100' residential
lots developed each with a single family residence.
Not only will the proposed Subdivision yield several sub-
stantial public benefits, but it is a significant improvement over the
existing 24 unit Agate Lodge.
The Applicant feels that some of the public benefits are:
(a) The redevelopment and cleaning up of one of the most
significant blocks of land in the West End of Aspen. It is truly
the entrance to town as all traffic is forced to slow signifi-
cantly when approaching the site.
(b) The creation of a landscaped irregular and naturally
appearing berm and buffer area along the entire most westerly lot
lines of the subdivision to enhance the visual impression of the
redevelopment of what is now a prominent eyesore at the entrance
of our town.
(c) Removal of existing visual vehicular and building
pollution, (The Agate) .
(d) The creation of a subdivision of homes entirely compat-
ible with the residential character of the West End rather than
continuing the encroachment by apartments and condominiums into
the traditionally detached single family and duplex dwelling
character of the surrounding neighborhood as originally platted.
The angle design of the duplexes as shown on Appendix A softens
the building facades resulting in improved visual impression at
this entrance.
(e) Creation of an orderly and adequate parking plan
replacing the existing vehicular mess.
2.0 PROJECT SITE.
The site is totally urban in character consisting of 18
townsite lots containing 54,000 square feet.
Because of the sensitive nature of the site and its unique-
ness, although the site is R-6 mandatory PUD, the Applicant is asking
for no special consideration or flexibility allowed by the PUD desig-
-3-
nation. The Applicant feels that the highest and best use, both from
a compatibility and esthetic point of view because of the sensitive
nature of the lots, is to maintain the residential character which
predominates east of Seventh Street.
However, the Applicant will intensively landscape the West
End of the site as shown on the enclosed site plan to enhance the
visual appeal of the Subdivision, both for the benefit of the
Applicant, proposed lot purchasers and the community in general. This
has been determined to produce a much better result than a wider, less
intensively landscaped buffer as well as complying with the PUD
concept. This will result in a visual impression to persons entering
this gateway to Aspen of a conventional West End neighborhood in
keeping with the desired character of the area to the east as well as
significant upgrading of the site.
3.0 APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS.
The Applicant seeks approval of Conceptual Subdivision
pursuant to Section 20-10 and Conceptual PUD pursuant to Section
24-8.7 and 24-8. 13.
All of the units are exempt from the provisions of Sec-
tion 24-11, the growth management quota system, by virtue of 24 units
having been verified by letter dated November 3, 1983, from the Zoning
Enforcement Officer (Appendix A) and thus may be reconstructed without
GMP review.
4.0 CONCEPTUAL SUBDIVISION.
In order to facilitate Planning Commission and Council
review, this portion of the submission is organized to coincide with
Code Section 20-10(b) (1) - (4) .
4. 1 VICINITY MAP.
A 1" = 400' scale vicinity map is included as Appendix B-1.
The map shows the project location, all adjacent lands owned by or
under option to the applicant, commonly known landmarks, and zoning on
and adjacent to the project. The project's close-in neighborhood
location will encourage more pedestrian and bicycle use and fewer auto
trips. Also a transit stop is located on the southwest corner of the
site providing the most convenient access possible to public
transportation. All public safety support systems have ready access
to the site by both arterial streets, collector streets and alley
abutting the property.
-4-
4.2 SKETCH PLAN.
A sketch plan of the proposed Subdivision is included as
Appendix B. This details the conceptual design of the two duplexes in
conformity with the decision of the Planning and Zoning Commission at
the Planning and Zoning meeting in October of 1984. Illustrated on
the sketch plan are the proposed Subdivision lots. The proposed
development is of six single family residences on the lots 3 through 8
and duplexes on lots 1 and 2 on Appendix B.
There will be no curb cuts on either of the duplex lot
frontages, the curb cuts which exist presently being eliminated in
this plan. Although the single family lots are not restricted as to
access, the subdivision plan encourages the purchasers of the single
family lots to utilize Agate Court for automobile access, thus further
minimizing additional curb cuts.
Applicant will request removal of six trees necessary for
development of the Subdivision, but will covenant to save the remain-
ing trees in the Subdivision and to transplant as many of the trees to
be removed if feasible. The number of trees which will have to be
removed under this development proposal does not exceed those which
would be removed under any other reasonable development pursuant to an
alternative P.U.D. proposal.
4.3 TABULATION OF DATA.
Subdivision name: Agate Subdivision
Land area: 54,000 square feet
Number of lots: eight
Number of structures: eight
Number of dwelling units: ten (six single family and two
duplexes)
Total floor area allowed: 28,440
Total projected population: 25
Open space: 39,780
4.4 DISCLOSURE OF OWNERSHIP.
The owner of the site is C. M. Clark. An ownership certifi-
cate is included as Attachment C. No adjacent lands are owned or
under option by Applicant.
-5-
5.0 OTHER CONSIDERATIONS.
5. 1 The applicant's plan not only eliminates the existing
eyesore on Block 17, but creates an orderly development in keeping
with the surrounding neighborhood. The proposal allows each
individual purchaser to design their individual single family
residences, (with the exception of the two duplexes) in keeping with
the character of the West End neighborhood. The two duplexes are as
shown on the attached plans (Appendix B) , thus creating a known plan
upon which you may base your approval. The applicant believes this is
the highest and best use of the site so that a row house or appearance
similar to the Villas of Aspen is not created on this property, but
rather a variety of architectural design.
5. 2 Although the site is mandatory PUD, the Applicant feels that
the purposes set forth in 24-8. 1 are better achieved for the site by
not taking advantage of all of the flexibility allowed by PUD. The
Applicant feels that the purposes of Section 24-8. 1 (a)-(f) are
entirely met by this proposal and that a highly beneficial land use
relationship is achieved with the surrounding area. This design plan
certainly promotes a greater variety in the type, design and layout of
the buildings when compared to that of the existing buildings and does
improve the design, character and quality of Block 17. This proposal
allows considerable open space as shown on Appendix B, which will be
preserved in a park-like manner. The parking will be controlled,
rather than parking allowed in the haphazard manner that presently
exists. All of the measures taken by the applicant in connection with
this development will relate the type, design and layout of the
residential development to the existing neighborhood and thus preserve
the site's unique character and achieve a beneficial land use
relationship with the surrounding West End areas.
5.3 The Applicant will make special reference in both the
Subdivision Agreement and the Covenants that will alert prospective
purchasers to the floor area ratio and height limitations of the zone
so as to meet the area and bulk requirements of the zone. The
building envelopes will be those of the R-6 zone in accordance with
the desires of the Planning and Zoning Commission.
5.4 The Applicant commits to an intensive landscaping plan,
especially on the west end of the subdivision, as generally shown on
Appendix B, subject to further specific approval upon preliminary and
final plat approval, for the west boundary of the site to address the
concerns of the Planning Office, Planning and Zoning Commission, City
Council and the Historic Preservation Committee.
5.5 Applicant proposes to require through the covenants that
access to the trash disposal be from the alley.
-6-
5.6 Documentation of adequacy of utility service to the site is
enclosed as Appendix D consisting of letters from:
1. Jim Markalunas, City of Aspen Water Department, dated
December 17, 1984.
2. Raymond L. Carpenter, Mountain Bell, dated December 12, 1984.
3. Willard C. Clapper, Rocky Mountain Natural Gas Company, Inc. ,
dated December 18, 1984.
4. J. Kelly Bloomer, Canyon Cable TV, dated December 19, 1984.
5. Jim Capperalla, City of Aspen Electric Department, dated
December 21, 1984.
07/MISC2/1.30.85
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