HomeMy WebLinkAboutcoa.lu.ca.Subdivision AHU PUD.A116-01A116-01
Subdivision Code Amendments- AH-PUD
Subdivision W/o GMQS
CI
CASE NUMBER
PARCEL ID #
CASE NAME
PROJECT ADDRESS
PLANNER
CASE TYPE
OWNER/APPLICANT
REPRESENTATIVE
DATE OF FINAL ACTION
CITY COUNCIL ACTION
PZ ACTION
ADMIN ACTION
BOA ACTION
DATE CLOSED
BY
A116-01
Subdivision Code Amendments- AH-PUD Subdivision w/o
Chris Bendon
Code Amendment
City of Aspen Community Development Department
12/17/01
Ordinance 44-2001
Approved
12/18/01
J. Lindt
PARCEL ID: DATE RCVD: 12/17/01 # COPIES:f— CASE NO A116-01
CASE NAME:lSubdivision Code Amendments- AH-PUD Subdivision w/o GMQS PLNR: Chris Bendon -11
PROJ ADDR: ICASE TYP: Code Amendment STEPS.
;;4
OWN/APP: City of Aspen Comm ADRI 17 S. Galena St. C/S/Z: Aspen/CO/81611 PHN:
REP: F ADR: C/Sal
W.. PHN'
FEES DUE:j FEES RCVD: STAT:
REFERRALS
REF: BYl� DUE:
MTG DATE REV BODY PH NOTICED ,
F— F—
SATE OF FINAL ACTION: 12/17/01
REMARKS
CITY COUNCIL: Ordinance 442001
�..
PZ:
CLOSED: 12/18101 BY: J Lindt BOA:
DRAC:
PLAT SUBMITD: 1 PLAT (BK,PG):�— ADMINIApproved
M ft
MEMORANDUM V1 I I io
TO: Mayor Klanderud and City Council
THRU: John Worcester, City Attorney
Julie Ann Woods, Community Development Director
FROM: Chris Bendon, Senior PlannerC�m
RE: Subdivision Code Amendment — 2°" Reading of Ordinance No. 44, 2001
Subdivision approval prior to Growth Management approval
DATE: December 17, 2001
SUMMARY:
Currently, the Subdivision regulations require an allotment or exemption from GMQS be
acquired prior to, or in conjunction with, the review for Subdivision approval.
Subdivision has been the primary trigger for the City's growth management system
although other methods have been incorporated into the code since the original adoption
of growth management.
The City Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission recently (September 26cn)
discussed this issue at a joint work session in relation to a request by the Villas of Aspen
Condominium Association. The two Boards directed staff to initiate a code amendment
to allow for the division of land prior to obtaining growth management approvals for land
zoned for affordable housing.
This change will allow larger properties to be subdivided and rezoned to the Affordable
Housing — Planned Unit Development Zone District. A new owner of that parcel would
be required to proceed through the Planned Unit Development process and the process of
obtaining growth management approvals. Public hearings would be required at both
Planning and Zoning Commission and with the City Council.
Staff believes this amendment is consistent with the Goals and Objectives of the Aspen
Area Community Plan and the direction given during the joint work session. Sufficient
public involvement would be maintained through the PUD process. And, any subsequent
rezoning action would require approvals from the Planning and Zoning Commission and
City Council.
The Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed this code amendment and recommended
approval by a 6-1 vote. Their Resolution is attached.
Staff recommends approval of Ordinance No. 44, Series of 2001.
MAIN ISSUES:
The lack of a development plan may place officials in an awkward role with neighbors
who are publicly noticed for a pending land use decision with no actual site specific plan
being proposed. This is similar to the majority of subdivision approval processes around
the country. Public hearings for conceptual and final PUD Plan approval would be
required prior to development and staff believes significant opportunity for neighbor
involvement is maintained through this process. The issue of an unknown future
affordable housing project must be handled during the actual subdivision process and
weighed with the benefits of zoning land for affordable housing.
The Subdivision approval criteria are sufficient to understand the capabilities of the
property and the ability to serve the property with necessary utilities. Having no specific
development proposal does not necessarily limit staff's ability to determine if the
property can be served, it only limits the analysis to that basic threshold — can it be
served. The applicant would be required to demonstrate the capability of serving the
parcel but not designing an actual utility plan. More detailed plans are required for PUD
approval.
Staff does not believe these issues suggest the amendment is flawed. In fact, the
amendment may facilitate private sector affordable housing projects — a stated goal of the
AACP.
APPLICANT:
City of Aspen.
PREVIOUS ACTION:
The Planning and Zoning Commission adopted Resolution 44, Series of 2001,
recommending approval (6-1) of this amendment in the exact language proposed in the
draft Ordinance. This concept was discussed at a joint work session between the City
Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission on September 26, 2001.
REVIEW PROCEDURE:
Text Amendment. At a duly noticed public hearing, City Council shall approve, approve
with conditions, or deny the application.
STAFF COMMENTS:
The Planning and Zoning Resolution shows the proposed changes to the Subdivision
section and highlights the amendments as follows: Cross -out text is proposed for
removal. Underlined text is proposed for addition. Regular text indicates no changes.
The proposed Ordinance shows the language in plain text, the manner in which it is
intended to appear in the Land Use Code.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends adoption of Ordinance No. 44, Series of 2001.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
"I move to adopt Ordinance No. 44, Series of 2001."
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit A -- Review Criteria and Staff Comments
Exhibit B -- Planning and Zoning Resolution and Minutes
C:\home\Chris\CASES\Sub_no_GMQS\CC_memo.doc
2
0
Exhibit A
Subdivision Amendments
STAFF COMMENTS: Text Amendment
Section 26.312.040, Standards Applicable to a Land Use Code Text Amendment
In reviewing an amendment to the text of this Title, the City Council and the Commission
shall consider:
A. Whether the proposed amendment is in conflict with any applicable
portions of this title.
Staff Finding:
The proposed code amendment intends to simplify the subdivision process and allow for
vacant parcels zoned affordable housing to be created prior to growth management
approval. Significant public input opportunity is maintained with this process and staff
does not believe any conflicts are created with adoption of this language.
B. Whether the proposed amendment is consistent with all elements
of the Aspen Area Comprehensive Plan.
Staff Finding:
Staff believes these changes to the Subdivision requirements are supported by the AACP.
Private sector development of affordable housing is a stated goal of the community and
this process is a way to implement this goal.
C. Whether the proposed amendment is compatible with surrounding
zone districts and land uses, considering existing land use and
neighborhood characteristics.
Staff Finding:
This amendment is not specific to a site and actual development will need to demonstrate
adjacent compatibility prior to plan approval in the PUD process.
D. The effect of the proposed amendment on traffic generation and
road safety.
E. Whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would
result in demands on public facilities, and whether and the extent to
which the proposed amendment would exceed the capacity of such
facilities, including, but not limited to, transportation facilities,
sewage facilities, water supply, parks, drainage, schools, and
emergency medical facilities.
F. Whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would
result in significant adverse impacts on the natural environment.
staff comments page 1
Staff Finding:
This amendment is not specific to a site and actual development will need to demonstrate
its effects on traffic generation, road safety, infrastructure impacts, and impacts on the
natural environment.
G. Whether the proposed amendment is consistent and compatible
with the community character in the City of Aspen.
Staff Finding:
Allowing greater opportunity for the private sector to realize public goals is consistent
with the community character.
H. Whether there have been changed conditions affecting the subject
parcel or the surrounding neighborhood which support the
proposed amendment.
Staff Finding:
This amendment is not specific to a parcel. The proposed amendment is the result of a
work session with policy makers in which policy changes specific to this issue were
discussed.
I. Whether the proposed amendment would be in conflict with the
public interest, and is in harmony with the purpose and intent of this
title.
Staff Finding:
This proposed amendment does not pose any conflicts with the public interest. The
AACP reflects a community desire for affordable housing opportunities within
established neighborhoods. The community has favored private sector solutions as a
component of reaching community goals. This amendment achieves this goal.
Staff believes this Ordinance will promote the purpose and intent of this Title. This
Ordinance promotes the permanent community by emphasizing employee housing
opportunities for working residents.
C:\home\Chris\CASES\Sub_no_GMQS\PZ_EX_A.DOC
staff comments page 2
RESOLUTION NO.44
(SERIES OF 2001)
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
ASPEN, COLORADO, RECOMMENDING AMENDMENTS TO THE SUBDIVISION
STANDARDS AND PROHIBITIONS, SECTIONS 26.480.020 AND 26.480.050 OF THE
LAND USE CODE.
WHEREAS, the City Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of
Aspen directed the Planning Director of the Community Development Department to propose
amendments to the Subdivision standards to allow for the subdivision of land prior to obtaining
growth management allotments or exemptions for the purpose of creating land for future
affordable housing projects consistent with the Affordable Housing -Planned Unit Development
Zone District; and,
WHEREAS, the amendments requested relate to Sections 26.480.020 and 26.480.050 of
the land use code of the Aspen Municipal Code; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 26.310, applications to amend the text of Title 26 of the
Municipal Code shall be reviewed and recommended for approval, approval with conditions, or
denial by the Planning Director and then by the Planning and Zoning Commission at a public
hearing. Final action shall be by City Council after reviewing and considering these
recommendations; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Director recommended approval of amendments to Sections
26.480.020 and 26.480.050 of the land use code of the Aspen Municipal Code as described
herein; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission opened the public hearing to
consider the proposed amendments to the Subdivision requirements on November 6, 2001, took
and considered public testimony and the recommendation of the Planning Director and
recommended, by a six to one (6-1) vote, City Council adopt the proposed amendments to the
land use code by amending the text of Sections 26.480.020 and 26.480.050 of the land use code
of the Aspen Municipal Code as described herein.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE PLANNING AND ZONING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ASPEN, COLORADO, THAT:
Section 1:
Pursuant to Section 26.310 of the Municipal Code, the Aspen Planning and Zoning Commission
hereby recommends City Council amend Section 26.480.020, Subdivision Applicability and
Prohibitions, which section defines, authorizes, and regulates the types of land use actions
requiring subdivision approval and those actions which may not be approved as a subdivision, by
striking and adding, denoted by strike and add, language to the Land Use Code as follows:
26.480.020 Applicability and prohibitions.
This Chapter shall apply to the subdivision of all land in the City of Aspen, unless it is
exempted pursuant to Section 26.480.030.
A. General prohibitions.
1. It shall be unlawful for any person to develop, lease, or sell any parcel of land,
including any separate interest in a parcel of land (including leasehold interest or
condominium interest) in the City of Aspen until it has been subdivided and a plat
recorded in the office of the Pitkin County Clerk and Recorder pursuant to the terms of
this Chapter.
2. A written agreement to sell or lease an interest in a parcel of land which is
expressly conditioned upon full compliance by the seller with this Chapter within a
specified period of time, and which expressly recites that seller's failure to satisfy such
condition within said period of time shall terminate the agreement and entitle the buyer to
the prompt return of all consideration paid by the buyer, shall not constitute a violation of
this Chapter.
B. Development allotment. No development order for a subdivision shall be approved
pursuant to the provisions of this Chapter unless the applicant has been awarded a development
allotment or has obtained a GMQS exemption pursuant to Chapter 26.470, Growth Management
Quota System. Subdivisions of land zoned Affordable Housing Planned Unit Development
(AH-PUD) are exempt from this prohibition.
C. Prohibited conveyances. No interest in a parcel of land shall be transferred, conveyed,
sold, subdivided or acquired to create or extend a nonconformity, or to avoid or circumvent any
provision of this Chapter.
D. Prohibited development. All structures shall be located on a subdivision lot. The lot lines
established in a subdivision shall not be altered by conveyance of a part of a lot, nor shall any
part of a lot be joined with a part of any other lot for conveyance or construction, unless the
application has been made pursuant to the terms of this Chapter.
E. Aspen Townsite lots. If two (2) or more lots within the original Aspen Townsite or
additions thereto have continuous frontage and are in single ownership (including husband and
wife) on October 27, 1975, the lots shall be considered an undivided lot for the purposes of this
Title, and conveyance of any portion shall constitute subdivision. An Aspen Townsite lot or
addition thereto includes all lands depicted on the Aspen incorporation plat of record, dated
1880, plus any lot or parcel annexed to the city since that time which constitutes a
nonconforming lot of record, plus any lot or parcel which has not received subdivision approval
by the City of Aspen or Pitkin County, but excludes any subdivided lot in the City of Aspen
which conforms to the requirements of this Title.
Planning and Zoning Commission
Resolution 44, Series of 2001
Page 2
r�
n
Section 2:
Pursuant to Section 26.310 of the Municipal Code, the Aspen Planning and Zoning Commission
hereby recommends City Council amend Section 26.480.050, Subdivision Review Standards,
which Section defines the standards and criteria which must be found met for approval of a
subdivision, by striking and adding, denoted by she and add, language to the Land Use Code
as follows:
26.480.050 Review Standards.
A development application for subdivision review shall comply with the following
standards and requirements:
A. General requirements.
a. The proposed subdivision shall be consistent with the Aspen Area Comprehensive
Plan.
b. The proposed subdivision shall be consistent with the character of existing land uses
in the area.
c. The proposed subdivision shall not adversely affect the future development of
surrounding areas.
d. The proposed subdivision shall be in compliance with all applicable requirements of
this Title.
B. Suitability of land for subdivision.
a. Land suitability. The proposed subdivision shall not be located on land unsuitable for
development because of flooding, drainage, rock or soil creep, mudflow, rockslide,
avalanche or snowslide, steep topography or any other natural hazard or other
condition that will be harmful to the health, safety, or welfare of the residents in the
proposed subdivision.
b. Spatial pattern efficient. The proposed subdivision shall not be designed to create
spatial patterns that cause inefficiencies, duplication or premature extension of public
facilities and unnecessary public costs.
C. Improvements. The improvements set forth at Chapter 26.580 shall be provided for the
proposed subdivision. These standards may be varied by special review (See, Chapter 26.430) if
the following conditions have been met:
1. A unique situation exists for the development where strict adherence to the
subdivision design standards would result in incompatibility with the Aspen Area
Comprehensive Plan, the existing, neighboring development areas, and/or the goals of the
community.
Planning and Zoning Commission
Resolution 44, Series of 2001
Page 3
2. The applicant shall specify each design standard variation requested and provide
justification for each variation request, providing design recommendations by
professional engineers as necessary.
D. Affordable housing_ A subdivision which is comprised of replacement dwelling units
shall be required to provide affordable housing in compliance with the requirements of Chapter
26.520, Replacement Housing Program. A subdivision which is comprised of new dwelling units
shall be required to provide affordable housing in compliance with the requirements of Chapter
26.470, Growth Management Quota System.
E. E�School Land Dedication. Compliance with the School Land Dedication
Standards set forth at Chapter 26.630.
F. Growth Management Approval. Subdivision approval may only be granted to
applications for which all growth management development allotments have been
granted or growth management exemptions have been obtained, pursuant to Section
26.470. Subdivision approval may be granted to create a parcel(s) zoned Affordable
Housing Planned Unit Development (AH-PUD) without first obtaining_ growth
management approvals if the newly created parcel(s) is required to obtain such
growth management approvals prior to development through a legal instrument
acceptable to the City Attorney.
Section 3•
Pursuant to Section 26.310.050 of the Municipal Code, the adoption of this resolution by the
Planning and Zoning Commission shall not be considered a pending ordinance.
APPROVED by the Commission during a public hearing on November 6, 2001.
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
City Attorney
ATTEST:
J ckie Lothian, Deputy City Clerk
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION:
�aS�� � I/L6/
Jasmine Tygre, Chair
C:\home\Chris\CASES\Sub-nO-GMQS\PZ-Reso.doc
Planning and Zoning Commission
Resolution 44, Series of 2001
Page 4
0 0 V� kt �A �- t>
ASPEN PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION - Minutes -November 6, 2001"W
PUBLIC HEARING:
LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS TO SECTION 26.480, SUBDIVISION —
WITHOUT GMOS
Jasmine Tygre opened the public hearing and David Hoefer stated the notice was
received. Chris Bendon explained this code amendment originally came in from
the Villas of Aspen, which the process would allow subdivision of land prior to
going through Growth Management.
Bendon stated that there were several options from the work session of a range of
the process. Typically there would be a subdivision packaged with the rezoning,
Growth Management and PUD. There were 3 options, the selected option, which
would allow a property zoned AH/PUD to go through a subdivision process prior
to any Growth Management Allotments; . would allow a conceptual PUD to go
through a subdivision process prior to any Growth Management Allotments . no
change the process at all.
Bendon stated that there were larger pieces of land with clear development
potential that would have significant value with this code amendment. Bendon
said that the changes were actually minimal with sections that described prohibited
subdivisions; language was included for exemption. Joyce Ohlson stated that there
was more of a distinct line between subdivision and PUD; looking for a more
conceptual development at first. Bendon explained that the first conceptual would
provide enough information to make a decision. David Hoefer stated that it did not
guarantee development rights because there would still have to have an application
made to the city.
No public comments.
MOTION: Bert Myrin moved to approve P&Z Resolution #01-44
recommending approval of the Subdivision amendments creating a
process to subdivide land for affordable housing prior to Growth
Management approval. Eric Cohen seconded. Roll Call vote:
Haneman, yes; Erickson, yes; Kruger, yes; Myrin, no; Cohen, yes;
Blaich, yes; Tygre, yes. APPROVED 6-1.
Meeting adjourned at 6:55 pm.
Jackie Lothian, Deputy City Clerk
• •
MEMORANDUM
TO: Mayor Klanderud and City Council
THRU: John Worcester, City Attorney
Julie Ann Woods, Community Developrirenf Director
FROM: Chris Bendon, Senior UAW,
RE: Subdivision Code Amendment —1" Reading of Ordinance No. 2001
Subdivision approval prior to Growth Management approval
DATE: November 26, 2001
SUMMARY:
Currently, the Subdivision regulations require an allotment or exemption from GMQS be
acquired prior to, or in conjunction with, the review for Subdivision approval.
Subdivision has been the primary trigger for the City's growth management system
although other methods have been incorporated into the code since the original adoption
of growth management.
The City Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission recently (September 26`n)
discussed this issue at a joint work session in relation to a request by the Villas of Aspen
Condominium Association. The two Boards directed staff to initiate a code amendment
to allow for the division of land prior to obtaining growth management approvals for land
zoned for affordable housing.
This change will allow larger properties to be subdivided and rezoned to the Affordable
Housing — Planned Unit Development Zone District. A new owner of that parcel would
be required to proceed through the Planned Unit Development process and the process of
obtaining growth management approvals. Public hearings would be required at both
Planning and Zoning Commission and with the City Council.
Staff believes this amendment is consistent with the Goals and Objectives of the Aspen
Area Community Plan and the direction given during the joint work session. Sufficient
public involvement would be maintained through the PUD process. And, any subsequent
rezoning action would require approvals from the Planning and Zoning Commission and
City Council.
The Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed this code amendment and recommended
approval by a 6-1 vote. Their Resolution is attached.
Staff recommends approval of Ordinance No.4, Series of 2001, upon first
reading.
MAIN ISSUES:
The lack of a development plan may place officials in an awkward role with neighbors
who are publicly noticed for a pending land use decision with no actual site specific plan
being proposed. This is similar to the majority of subdivision approval processes around
the country. Public hearings for conceptual and final PUD Plan approval would be
required prior to development and staff believes significant opportunity for neighbor
involvement is maintained through this process. The issue of an unknown future
affordable housing project must be handled during the actual subdivision process and
weighed with the benefits of zoning land for affordable housing.
The Subdivision approval criteria are sufficient to understand the capabilities of the
property and the ability to serve the property with necessary utilities. Having no specific
development proposal does not necessarily limit staff's ability to determine if the
property can be served, it only limits the analysis to that basic threshold — can it be
served. The applicant would be required to demonstrate the capability of serving the
parcel but not designing an actual utility plan. More detailed plans are required for PUD
approval.
Staff does not believe these issues suggest the amendment is flawed. In fact, the
amendment may facilitate private sector affordable housing projects — a stated goal of the
AACP.
APPLICANT:
City of Aspen.
PREVIOUS ACTION:
The Planning and Zoning Commission adopted Resolution 44, Series of 2001,
recommending approval (6-1) of this amendment in the exact language proposed in the
draft Ordinance. This concept was discussed at a joint work session between the City
Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission on September 26, 2001.
REVIEW PROCEDURE:
Test Amendment. At a duly noticed public hearing, City Council shall approve, approve
with conditions, or deny the application.
STAFF COMMENTS:
The Planning and Zoning Resolution shows the proposed changes to the Subdivision
section and highlights the amendments as follows: Cross -out text is proposed for
removal. Underlined text is proposed for addition. Regular text indicates no changes.
The proposed Ordinance shows the language in plain text, the manner in which it is
intended to appear in the Land Use Code.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends adoption of Ordinance No. _, Series of 2001, upon first reading.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
"I move to adopt Ordinance No. , Series of 2001, upon first reading."
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit A -- Review Criteria and Staff Comments
Exhibit B -- Planning and Zoning Resolution
C:\home\Chris\CASES\Sub_no_GMQS\CC_memo.doc
2
ORDINANCE NO. 4
(SERIES OF 2001)
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ASPEN APPROVING AN
AMENDMENT TO THE SUBDIVISION STANDARDS AND PROHIBITIONS,
SECTIONS 26.480.020 AND 26.480.050 OF THE LAND USE CODE.
WHEREAS, the City Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of
Aspen directed the Planning Director of the Community Development Department to propose
amendments to the Subdivision standards to allow for the subdivision of land prior to obtaining
growth management allotments or exemptions for the purpose of creating land for future
affordable housing projects consistent with the Affordable Housing -Planned Unit Development
Zone District; and,
WHEREAS, the amendments requested relate to Sections 26.480.020 and 26.480.050 of
the land use code of the Aspen Municipal Code; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 26.310, applications to amend the text of Title 26 of the
Municipal Code shall be reviewed and recommended for approval, approval with conditions, or
denial by the Planning Director and then by the Planning and Zoning Commission at a public
hearing. Final action shall be by City Council after reviewing and considering these
recommendations; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Director recommended approval of amendments to Sections
26.480.020 and 26.480.050 of the land use code of the Aspen Municipal Code as described
herein; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission opened the public hearing to
consider the proposed amendments to the Subdivision requirements on November 6, 2001, took
and considered public testimony and the recommendation of the Planning Director and
recommended, by a six to one (6-1) vote, City Council adopt the proposed amendments to the
land use code by amending the text of Sections 26.480.020 and 26.480.050 of the land use code
of the Aspen Municipal Code as described herein; and,
WHEREAS, the Aspen City Council has reviewed and considered the development
proposal under the applicable provisions of the Municipal Code as identified herein, has reviewed
and considered the recommendation of the Community Development Director, the Planning and
Zoning Commission, and has taken and considered public comment at a public hearing; and,
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the proposed text amendments to the Subdivision
prohibitions and standards meet or exceed all applicable standards and that the approval of the
proposal is consistent with the goals and elements of the Aspen Area Community Plan; and,
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that this Ordinance furthers and is necessary for the
promotion of public health, safety, and welfare.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF ASPEN, COLORADO as follows:
•
Section 1
Section 26.480.020, Subdivision Applicability and Prohibitions, which section defines,
authorizes, and regulates the types of land use actions requiring subdivision approval and those
actions which may not be approved as a subdivision, is hereby amendment to read as follows:
26.480.020 Applicability and prohibitions.
This Chapter shall apply to the subdivision of all land in the City of Aspen, unless it is
exempted pursuant to Section 26.480.030.
A. General prohibitions.
1. It shall be unlawful for any person to develop, lease, or sell any parcel of land,
including any separate interest in a parcel of land (including leasehold interest or
condominium interest) in the City of Aspen until it has been subdivided and a plat
recorded in the office of the Pitkin County Clerk and Recorder pursuant to the terms of
this Chapter.
2. A written agreement to sell or lease an interest in a parcel of land which is
expressly conditioned upon full compliance by the seller with this Chapter within a
specified period of time, and which expressly recites that seller's failure to satisfy such
condition within said period of time shall terminate the agreement and entitle the buyer to
the prompt return of all consideration paid by the buyer, shall not constitute a violation of
this Chapter.
B. Development allotment. No development order for a subdivision shall be approved
pursuant to the provisions of this Chapter unless the applicant has been awarded a development
allotment or has obtained a GMQS exemption pursuant to Chapter 26.470, Growth Management
Quota System. Subdivisions of land zoned Affordable Housing Planned Unit Development
(AH-PUD) are exempt from this prohibition.
C. Prohibited conveyances. No interest in a parcel of land shall be transferred, conveyed,
sold, subdivided or acquired to create or extend a nonconformity, or to avoid or circumvent any
provision of this Chapter.
D. Prohibited development. All structures shall be located on a subdivision lot. The lot lines
established in a subdivision shall not be altered by conveyance of a part of a lot, nor shall any
part of a lot be joined with a part of any other lot for conveyance or construction, unless the
application has been made pursuant to the terms of this Chapter.
E. Aspen Townsite lots. If two (2) or more lots within the original Aspen Townsite or
additions thereto have continuous frontage and are in single ownership (including husband and
wife) on October 27, 1975, the lots shall be considered an undivided lot for the purposes of this
Title, and conveyance of any portion shall constitute subdivision. An Aspen Townsite lot or
addition thereto includes all lands depicted on the Aspen incorporation plat of record, dated
1880, plus any lot or parcel annexed to the city since that time which constitutes a
Ordinance No. _, Series of 2001
Page 2
0
C]
nonconforming lot of record, plus any lot or parcel which has not received subdivision approval
by the City of Aspen or Pitkin County, but excludes any subdivided lot in the City of Aspen
which conforms to the requirements of this Title.
Section 2•
Section 26.480.050, Subdivision Review Standards, which Section defines the standards and
criteria which must be found met for approval of a subdivision, is hereby amended to read as
follows:
26.480.050 Review Standards.
A development application for subdivision review shall comply with the following
standards and requirements:
A. General requirements.
a. The proposed subdivision shall be consistent with the Aspen Area Comprehensive
Plan.
b. The proposed subdivision shall be consistent with the character of existing land uses
in the area.
c. The proposed subdivision shall not adversely affect the future development of
surrounding areas.
d. The proposed subdivision shall be in compliance with all applicable requirements of
this Title.
B. Suitability of land for subdivision.
a. Land suitability. The proposed subdivision shall not be located on land unsuitable for
development because of flooding, drainage, rock or soil creep, mudflow, rockslide,
avalanche or snowslide, steep topography or any other natural hazard or other
condition that will be harmful to the health, safety, or welfare of the residents in the
proposed subdivision.
b. Spatial pattern efficient. The proposed subdivision shall not be designed to create
spatial patterns that cause inefficiencies, duplication or premature extension of public
facilities and unnecessary public costs.
C. Improvements. The improvements set forth at Chapter 26.580 shall be provided for the
proposed subdivision. These standards may be varied by special review (See, Chapter 26.430) if
the following conditions have been met:
1. A unique situation exists for the development where strict adherence to the
subdivision design standards would result in incompatibility with the Aspen Area
Ordinance No. _, Series of 2001
Page 3
Comprehensive Plan, the existing, neighboring development areas, and/or the goals of the
community.
2. The applicant shall specify each design standard variation requested and provide
justification for each variation request, providing design recommendations by
professional engineers as necessary.
D. Affordable housing. A subdivision which is comprised of replacement dwelling units
shall be required to provide affordable housing in compliance with the requirements of Chapter
26.520, Replacement Housing Program. A subdivision which is comprised of new dwelling units
shall be required to provide affordable housing in compliance with the requirements of Chapter
26.470, Growth Management Quota System.
E. School Land Dedication. Compliance with the School Land Dedication Standards set
forth at Chapter 26.630.
F. Growth Management Approval. Subdivision approval may only be granted to
applications for which all growth management development allotments have been granted or
growth management exemptions have been obtained, pursuant to Section 26.470. Subdivision
approval may be granted to create a parcel(s) zoned Affordable Housing Planned Unit
Development (AH-PUD) without first obtaining growth management approvals if the newly
created parcel(s) is required to obtain such growth management approvals prior to development
through a legal instrument acceptable to the City Attorney.
Section 3•
This Ordinance shall not effect any existing litigation and shall not operate as an abatement
of any action or proceeding now pending under or by virtue of the ordinances repealed or
amended as herein provided, and the same shall be conducted and concluded under such
prior ordinances.
Section 4•
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance is for any
reason held invalid or unconstitutional in a court of competent jurisdiction, such portion shall
be deemed a separate, distinct and independent provision and shall not affect the validity of
the remaining portions thereof.
Section 5•
That the City Clerk is directed, upon the adoption of this Ordinance, to record a copy of this
Ordinance in the office of the Pitkin County Clerk and Recorder.
Section 6•
A public hearing on the Ordinance shall be held on the _th day of December2001, at 5:00 in
the City Council Chambers, Aspen City Hall, Aspen Colorado, fifteen (15) days prior to
which hearing a public notice of the same was published in a newspaper of general
circulation within the City of Aspen.
Ordinance No. _, Series of 2001
Page 4
,7
•
INTRODUCED, READ AND ORDERED PUBLISHED as provided by law,
by the City Council of the City of Aspen on the 26th day of November, 2001.
Attest:
Kathryn S. Koch, City Clerk Helen K. Klanderud, Mayor
FINALLY, adopted, passed and approved this day of , 2001.
Attest:
Kathryn S. Koch, City Clerk Helen K. Klanderud, Mayor
Approved as to form:
City Attorney
Ordinance No. _, Series of 2001
Page 5
Exhibit A
Subdivision Amendments
STAFF COMMENTS: Text Amendment
Section 26.312.040, Standards Applicable to a Land Use Code Text Amendment
In reviewing an amendment to the text of this Title, the City Council and the Commission
shall consider:
A. Whether the proposed amendment is in conflict with any applicable
portions of this title.
Staff Finding:
The proposed code amendment intends to simplify the subdivision process and allow for
vacant parcels zoned affordable housing to be created prior to growth management
approval. Significant public input opportunity is maintained with this process and staff
does not believe any conflicts are created with adoption of this language.
B. Whether the proposed amendment is consistent with all elements
of the Aspen Area Comprehensive Plan.
Staff Finding:
Staff believes these changes to the Subdivision requirements are supported by the AACP.
Private sector development of affordable housing is a stated goal of the community and
this process is a way to implement this goal.
C. Whether the proposed amendment is compatible with surrounding
zone districts and land uses, considering existing land use and
neighborhood characteristics.
Staff Finding:
This amendment is not specific to a site and actual development will need to demonstrate
adjacent compatibility prior to plan approval in the PUD process.
D. The effect of the proposed amendment on traffic generation and
road safety.
E. Whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would
result in demands on public facilities, and whether and the extent to
which the proposed amendment would exceed the capacity of such
facilities, including, but not limited to, transportation facilities,
sewage facilities, water supply, parks, drainage, schools, and
emergency medical facilities.
F. Whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would
result in significant adverse impacts on the natural environment.
staff comments page 1
Staff Finding:
This amendment is not specific to a site and actual development will need to demonstrate
its effects on traffic generation, road safety, infrastructure impacts, and impacts on the
natural environment.
G. Whether the proposed amendment is consistent and compatible
with the community character in the City of Aspen.
Staff Finding:
Allowing greater opportunity for the private sector to realize public goals is consistent
with the community character.
H. Whether there have been changed conditions affecting the subject
parcel or the surrounding neighborhood which support the
proposed amendment.
Staff Finding:
This amendment is not specific to a parcel. The proposed amendment is the result of a
work session with policy makers in which policy changes specific to this issue were
discussed.
I. Whether the proposed amendment would be in conflict with the
public interest, and is in harmony with the purpose and intent of this
title.
Staff Finding:
This proposed amendment does not pose any conflicts with the public interest. The
AACP reflects a community desire for affordable housing opportunities within
established neighborhoods. The community has favored private sector solutions as a
component of reaching community goals. This amendment achieves this goal.
Staff believes this Ordinance will promote the purpose and intent of this Title. This
Ordinance promotes the permanent community by emphasizing employee housing
opportunities for working residents.
C:\home\Chris\CASES\Sub—no—GMQS\PZ—EX—A.DOC
staff comments page 2
RESOLUTION NO.44
(SERIES OF 2001)
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
ASPEN, COLORADO, RECOMMENDING AMENDMENTS TO THE SUBDIVISION
STANDARDS AND PROHIBITIONS, SECTIONS 26.480.020 AND 26.480.050 OF THE
LAND USE CODE.
WHEREAS, the City Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of
Aspen directed the Planning Director of the Community Development Department to propose
amendments to the Subdivision standards to allow for the subdivision of land prior to obtaining
growth management allotments or exemptions for the purpose of creating land for future
affordable housing projects consistent with the Affordable Housing -Planned Unit Development
Zone District; and,
WHEREAS, the amendments requested relate to Sections 26.480.020 and 26.480.050 of
the land use code of the Aspen Municipal Code; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 26.310, applications to amend the text of Title 26 of the
Municipal Code shall be reviewed and recommended for approval, approval with conditions, or
denial by the Planning Director and then by the Planning and Zoning Commission at a public
hearing. Final action shall be by City Council after reviewing and considering these
recommendations; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Director recommended approval of amendments to Sections
26.480.020 and 26.480.050 of the land use code of the Aspen Municipal Code as described
herein; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission opened the public hearing to
consider the proposed amendments to the Subdivision requirements on November 6, 2001, took
and considered public testimony and the recommendation of the Planning Director and
recommended, by a six to one (6-1) vote, City Council adopt the proposed amendments to the
land use code by amending the text of Sections 26.480.020 and 26.480.050 of the land use code
of the Aspen Municipal Code as described herein.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE PLANNING AND ZONING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ASPEN, COLORADO, THAT:
Section 1
Pursuant to Section 26.310 of the Municipal Code, the Aspen Planning and Zoning Commission
hereby recommends City Council amend Section 26.480.020, Subdivision Applicability and
Prohibitions, which section defines, authorizes, and regulates the types of land use actions
requiring subdivision approval and those actions which may not be approved as a subdivision, by
striking and adding, denoted by stye and add, language to the Land Use Code as follows:
26.480.020 Applicability and prohibitions.
This Chapter shall apply to the subdivision of all land in the City of Aspen, unless it is
exempted pursuant to Section 26.480.030.
A. General prohibitions.
1. It shall be unlawful for any person to develop, lease, or sell any parcel of land,
including any separate interest in a parcel of land (including leasehold interest or
condominium interest) in the City of Aspen until it has been subdivided and a plat
recorded in the office of the Pitkin County Clerk and Recorder pursuant to the terms of
this Chapter.
2. A written agreement to sell or lease an interest in a parcel of land which is
expressly conditioned upon full compliance by the seller with this Chapter within a
specified period of time, and which expressly recites that seller's failure to satisfy such
condition within said period of time shall terminate the agreement and entitle the buyer to
the prompt return of all consideration paid by the buyer, shall not constitute a violation of
this Chapter.
B. Development allotment. No development order for a subdivision shall be approved
pursuant to the provisions of this Chapter unless the applicant has been awarded a development
allotment or has obtained a GMQS exemption pursuant to Chapter 26.470, Growth Management
Quota System. Subdivisions of land zoned Affordable Housing Planned Unit Development
(AH-PUD) are exempt from this prohibition.
C. Prohibited conveyances. No interest in a parcel of land shall be transferred, conveyed,
sold, subdivided or acquired to create or extend a nonconformity, or to avoid or circumvent any
provision of this Chapter.
D. Prohibited development. All structures shall be located on a subdivision lot. The lot lines
established in a subdivision shall not be altered by conveyance of a part of a lot, nor shall any
part of a lot be joined with a part of any other lot for conveyance or construction, unless the
application has been made pursuant to the terms of this Chapter.
E. Aspen Townsite lots. If two (2) or more lots within the original Aspen Townsite or
additions thereto have continuous frontage and are in single ownership (including husband and
wife) on October 27, 1975, the lots shall be considered an undivided lot for the purposes of this
Title, and conveyance of any portion shall constitute subdivision. An Aspen Townsite lot or
addition thereto includes all lands depicted on the Aspen incorporation plat of record, dated
1880, plus any lot or parcel annexed to the city since that time which constitutes a
nonconforming lot of record, plus any lot or parcel which has not received subdivision approval
by the City of Aspen or Pitkin County, but excludes any subdivided lot in the City of Aspen
which conforms to the requirements of this Title.
Planning and Zoning Commission
Resolution 44, Series of 2001
Page 2
•
Section 2•
Pursuant to Section 26.310 of the Municipal Code, the Aspen Planning and Zoning Commission
hereby recommends City Council amend Section 26.480.050, Subdivision Review Standards,
which Section defines the standards and criteria which must be found met for approval of a
subdivision, by striking and adding, denoted by strik and add, language to the Land Use Code
as follows:
26.480.050 Review Standards.
A development application for subdivision review shall comply with the following
standards and requirements:
A. General requirements.
a. The proposed subdivision shall be consistent with the Aspen Area Comprehensive
Plan.
b. The proposed subdivision shall be consistent with the character of existing land uses
in the area.
c. The proposed subdivision shall not adversely affect the future development of
surrounding areas.
d. The proposed subdivision shall be in compliance with all applicable requirements of
this Title.
B. Suitability of land for subdivision.
a. Land suitability. The proposed subdivision shall not be located on land unsuitable for
development because of flooding, drainage, rock or soil creep, mudflow, rockslide,
avalanche or snowslide, steep topography or any other natural hazard or other
condition that will be harmful to the health, safety, or welfare of the residents in the
proposed subdivision.
b. Spatial pattern efficient. The proposed subdivision shall not be designed to create
spatial patterns that cause inefficiencies, duplication or premature extension of public
facilities and unnecessary public costs.
C. Improvements. The improvements set forth at Chapter 26.580 shall be provided for the
proposed subdivision. These standards may be varied by special review (See, Chapter 26.430) if
the following conditions have been met:
1. A unique situation exists for the development where strict adherence to the
subdivision design standards would result in incompatibility with the Aspen Area
Comprehensive Plan, the existing, neighboring development areas, and/or the goals of the
community.
Planning and Zoning Commission
Resolution 44, Series of 2001
Page 3
•
•
2. The applicant shall specify each design standard variation requested and provide
justification for each variation request, providing design recommendations by
professional engineers as necessary.
D. Affordable housing. A subdivision which is comprised of replacement dwelling units
shall be required to provide affordable housing in compliance with the requirements of Chapter
26.520, Replacement Housing Program. A subdivision which is comprised of new dwelling units
shall be required to provide affordable housing in compliance with the requirements of Chapter
26.470, Growth Management Quota System.
E. E,-.—School Land Dedication. Compliance with the School Land Dedication
Standards set forth at Chapter 26.630.
F. Growth Management Approval. Subdivision approval may only be granted to
gpplications for which all growth management development allotments have been
granted or growth management exemptions have been obtained, pursuant to Section
26.470. Subdivision approval may be granted to create a parcel(s) zoned Affordable
Housing Planned Unit Development (AH-PUD) without first obtaining_ growth
management approvals if the newly created parcel(s) is required to obtain such
growth management approvals prior to development through a legal instrument
acceptable to the City Attorney_
Section 3•
Pursuant to Section 26.310.050 of the Municipal Code, the adoption of this resolution by the
Planning and Zoning Commission shall not be considered a pending ordinance.
APPROVED by the Commission during a public hearing on November 6, 2001.
APPROVED AS TO FORM: PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION:
City Attorney
ATTEST:
Jackie Lothian, Deputy City Clerk
Jasmine Tygre, Chair
C:\home\Chris\CASES\Sub—nO—GMQS\PZ—Reso.doc
Planning and Zoning Commission
Resolution 44, Series of 2001
Page 4
•
AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLIC NOTICE
REQUIRED BY SECTION 26.304.060 (E), ASPEN LAND USE CODE
ADDRESS OF PROPERTY: Su 64�I Vlsy(/( li(//& �%/� As de
pen, CO
SCHEDULED PUBLIC HEARING DATE: / ZZ17101 , 200_
STATE OF COLORADO )
SS.
County of Pitkin )
I, '-� ) Q LAA �__ 1 V [ CA J (name, please print)
being or representing an Applicant to the City of Aspen, Colorado, hereby personally
certify that I have complied with the public notice requirements of Section 26.304.060
(E) of the Aspen Land Use Code in the following manner:
Publication of notice: By the publication in the legal notice section of an official
paper or a paper of general circulation in the City of Aspen at least fifteen (15)
days prior to the public hearing. A copy of the publication is attached hereto.
Posting of notice: By posting of notice, which form was obtained from the
Community Development Department, which was made of suitable,
waterproof materials, which was not less than twenty-two (22) inches wide
and twenty-six (26) inches high, and which was composed of letters not
less than one inch in height. Said notice was posted at least ten (10) days
prior to the public hearing and was continuously visible from the _ day of
, 200_, to and including the date and time of the)public
hearing. A photograph of the posted notice (sign) is attached hereto.
Mailing of notice. By the mailing of a notice obtained from the Community
Development Department, which contains the information described in Section
26.304.060(E)(2) of the Aspen Land Use Code. At least ten (10) days prior to the
public hearing, notice was hand delivered or mailed by first class, postage prepaid
U.S. mail to all owners of property within three hundred (300) feet of the property
subject to the development application, and, at least fifteen (15) days prior to the
public hearing, notice was hand delivered or mailed by first class postage prepaid
U.S. mail to any federal agency, state, county, municipal government, school,
service district or other governmental or quasi -governmental agency that owns
property within three hundred (300) feet of the property subject to"'tie
development application. The names and addresses of property owners shall be
those on the current tax records of Pitkin County as they appeared no more than
sixty (60) days prior to the date of the public hearing. A copy of the owners and
governmental agencies so noticed is attached hereto.
(continued on next page)
Rezoning or text amendment. Whenever the official zoning district map is in
any way to be changed or amended incidental to or as part of a general revision
of this Title, or whenever the text of this Title is to be amended, whether such
revision be made by repeal of this Title and enactment of a new land use
regulation, or otherwise, the requirement of an accurate survey map or other
sufficient legal description of, and the notice to and listing of names and
addresses of owners of real property in the area of the proposed change shall
be waived. However, the proposed zoning map has been available for public
inspection in the planning agency during all business hours for fifteen (15) days
prior to the public hearing on such amendments.
nature
The foregoing "Affidavit of Notice" was acknowledged before me this30 day
of 200 1, by
PUBIJC NOTICE
RE: CITY OF ASPEN :.AND USE CODE AMEND-
MENTS: SECTION 26.480 SUBDIVISION.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GNEN that a public hearing
will be held on December 17, 2001, at a meeting
to begin at 5:00 P.M. befo-� the Aspen City Coun-
cil, Council Chambers, City Hall 130 South Gale-
na, Aspen, to consider an application Initiated by
the City of Aspen, requesting approval for pro-
posed code amendments to Section 26.480, Sub-
division. The proposed amendments would
amend the land use code to allow for land to be
subdivided for affordable housing projects with-
out first having to obtain a Growth Management
Quota System Exemption.
For further Information contact Chris Bendon at
the Aspen /Pitkin Community Development De-
partment, 130 South Galena St., Aspen, CO (970)
920-5072.
s/Helen Kalin Klanderud, Mayor
. Aspen City Council
Published In The Aspen Times on December 1,
2001.(8155)
WITNESS MY HAND AND OFFICIAL SEAL
My commission expires: 4/.;2,3 /�3
Notary Public
ATTACHMENTS:
COPY OF THE PUBLICATION
PHOTOGRAPH OF THE POSTED NOTICE (SIGN)
LIST OF THE O KWNERS AND GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES NOTICED
B Y MAIL
MEMORANDUM
TO: Aspen Planning and Zoning Commission
THRU: Joyce Ohlson, Deputy Directotv��
FROM: Chris Bendon, Senior Planner
RE: Subdivision Code Amendment — Public Hearing
Provision for Subdivision approval prior to Growth Management
approval for creating affordable housing parcels I
DATE: November 6, 2001 , , . , , ,
SUMMARY:
Currently, the Subdivision regulations require an allotment or exemption from GMQS
be acquired prior to, or in conjunction with, the review for Subdivision approval.
Subdivision has been the primary trigger for the City's growth management system
although other methods have been incorporated into the code since the original
adoption of growth management.
The City Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission recently (September 26`h)
discussed this issue at a joint work session in relation to a request by the Villas of
Aspen Condominium Association. The two Boards directed staff to initiate a code
amendment to allow for the division of land prior to obtaining growth management
approvals for land zoned for affordable housing.
This change will allow larger properties to be subdivided and rezoned to the Affordable
Housing — Planned Unit Development Zone District. A new owner of that parcel would
be required to proceed through the Planned Unit Development process and the process of
obtaining growth management approvals. Public hearings would be required at both
Planning and Zoning Commission and with the City Council.
Staff believes this amendment is consistent with the Goals and Objectives of the Aspen
Area Community Plan and the direction given during the joint work session. Sufficient
public involvement would be maintained through the PUD process. And, significant
assurance would be provided with the property being zoned affordable housing, as any
rezoning action would require approvals from the Planning and Zoning Commission and
City Council.
Staff recommends the Commission recommend adoption of this code amendment.
MAIN ISSUES:
Staffs primary concern with Subdividing and Rezoning land with no specific
development proposal has been the ability to serve potential development. With no
actual plan, it is very difficult for utility agencies and service providers to estimate their
ability to serve and difficult for planning staff to assess potential impacts on the
•
•
community in general. However, the Subdivision approval criteria are sufficient to
understand the capabilities of the property and the ability to serve the property.
The lack of a development plan may also place officials in an awkward role with
neighbors who are publicly noticed for a pending land use decision with no actual site
specific plan being proposed. This is similar to the majority of subdivision approval
processes around the country. Public hearings for conceptual and final PUD Plan
approval would be required prior to development and staff believes significant
opportunity for neighbor involvement is maintained through this process. The issue of an
unknown future affordable housing project must be handled during the actual subdivision
process and weighed with the benefits of zoning land for affordable housing.
Staff does not believe these issues suggest the amendment is flawed. In fact, the
amendment may facilitate private sector affordable housing projects — a stated goal of the
AACP.
APPLICANT:
City of Aspen.
PREVIOUS ACTION:
The Planning and Zoning Commission has not previously considered this Resolution.
This concept was discussed at a joint work session between the City Council and the
Planning and Zoning Commission on September 26, 2001.
REVIEW PROCEDURE:
Text Amendment. At a duly noticed public hearing, the Commission shall recommend
by Resolution City Council approve, approve with conditions, or deny the application.
STAFF COMMENTS:
The Resolution shows the proposed changes to the Subdivision section and highlights
the amendments as follows: Cress-ou text is proposed for removal. Underlined text
is proposed for addition. Regular text indicates no changes.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the Planning and Zoning Commission ric9mmend approval of the
Subdivision amendments as described in Resolution 01-
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
"I move to approve PZ-Resolution 01 ecommending approval of the Subdivision
amendments creating a process to subdivi e land for affordable housing prior to
growth management approval."
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit A -- Proposed Resolution
Exhibit B -- Review Criteria and Staff Comments
C:\home\Chris\CASES\Sub—no—GMQS\PZ—memo.doc
2
RESOLUTION NO
�
(SERIES OF 2001)
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANING AND ZONING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
ASPEN, COLORADO, RECOMMENDING AMENDMENTS TO THE SUBDIVISION
STANDARDS AND PROHIBITIONS, SECTIONS 26.480.020 AND 26.480.050 OF THE
LAND USE CODE.
WHEREAS, the City Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of
Aspen directed the Planning Director of the Community Development Department to propose
amendments to the Subdivision standards to allow for the subdivision of land prior to obtaining
growth management allotments or exemptions for the purpose of creating land for future
affordable housing projects consistent with the Affordable Housing -Planned Unit Development
Zone District; and,
WHEREAS, the amendments requested relate to Sections 26.480.020 and 26.480.050 of
the land use code of the Aspen Municipal Code; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 26.310, applications to amend the text of Title 26 of the
Municipal Code shall be reviewed and recommended for approval, approval with conditions, or
denial by the Planning Director and then by the Planning and Zoning Commission at a public
hearing. Final action shall be by City Council after reviewing and considering these
recommendations; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Director recommended approval of amendments to Sections
26.480.020 and 26.480.050 of the land use code of the Aspen Municipal Code as described
herein; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission opened the public hearing to
consider the proposed amendments to the Subdivision requirements on November 6, 2001, took
and considered public testimony and the recommendation of the Planning Director and
recommended, by a to (_-_) vote, City Council adopt the proposed amendments to the
land use code by amending the text of Sections 26.480.020 and 26.480.050 of the land use code
of the Aspen Municipal Code as described herein.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE PLANNING AND ZONING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ASPEN, COLORADO, THAT:
Section 1:
Pursuant to Section 26.310 of the Municipal Code, the Aspen Planning and Zoning Commission
hereby recommends City Council amend Section 26.480.020, Subdivision Applicability and
Prohibitions, which section defines, authorizes, and regulates the types of land use actions
requiring subdivision approval and those actions which may not be approved as a subdivision, by
striking and adding, denoted by str-+ke and add, language to the Land Use Code as follows:
26.480.020 Applicability and prohibitions.
This Chapter shall apply to the subdivision of all land in the City of Aspen, unless it is
exempted pursuant to Section 26.480.030.
A. General prohibitions.
1. It shall be unlawful for any person to develop, lease, or sell any parcel of land,
including any separate interest in a parcel of land (including leasehold interest or
condominium interest) in the City of Aspen until it has been subdivided and a plat
recorded in the office of the Pitkin County Clerk and Recorder pursuant to the terms of
this Chapter.
2. A written agreement to sell or lease an interest in a parcel of land which is
expressly conditioned upon full compliance by the seller with this Chapter within a
specified period of time, and which expressly recites that seller's failure to satisfy such
condition within said period of time shall terminate the agreement and entitle the buyer to
the prompt return of all consideration paid by the buyer, shall not constitute a violation of
this Chapter.
B. Development allotment. No development order for a subdivision shall be approved
pursuant to the provisions of this Chapter unless the applicant has been awarded a development
allotment or has obtained a GMQS exemption pursuant to Chapter 26.470, Growth Management
Quota System. Subdivisions of land zoned Affordable Housing Planned Unit Development
(AH-PUD) are exempt from this prohibition.
C. Prohibited conveyances. No interest in a parcel of land shall be transferred, conveyed,
sold, subdivided or acquired to create or extend a nonconformity, or to avoid or circumvent any
provision of this Chapter.
D. Prohibited development. All structures shall be located on a subdivision lot. The lot lines
established in a subdivision shall not be altered by conveyance of a part of a lot, nor shall any
part of a lot be joined with a part of any other lot for conveyance or construction, unless the
application has been made pursuant to the terms of this Chapter.
E. Aspen Townsite lots. If two (2) or more lots within the original Aspen Townsite or
additions thereto have continuous frontage and are in single ownership (including husband and
wife) on October 27, 1975, the lots shall be considered an undivided lot for the purposes of this
Title, and conveyance of any portion shall constitute subdivision. An Aspen Townsite lot or
addition thereto includes all lands depicted on the Aspen incorporation plat of record, dated
1880, plus any lot or parcel annexed to the city since that time which constitutes a
nonconforming lot of record, plus any lot or parcel which has not received subdivision approval
by the City of Aspen or Pitkin County, but excludes any subdivided lot in the City of Aspen
which conforms to the requirements of this Title.
Planning and Zoning Commission
Resolution 41 Series of 2001
Page 2
Section 2•
Pursuant to Section 26.310 of the Municipal Code, the Aspen Planning and Zoning Commission
hereby recommends City Council amend Section 26.480.050, Subdivision Review Standards,
which Section defines the standards and criteria which must be found met for approval of a
subdivision, by striking and adding, denoted by stye and add, language to the Land Use Code
as follows:
26.480.050 Review Standards.
A development application for subdivision review shall comply with the following
standards and requirements:
A. General requirements.
a. The proposed subdivision shall be consistent with the Aspen Area Comprehensive
Plan.
b. The proposed subdivision shall be consistent with the character of existing land uses
in the area.
c. The proposed subdivision shall not adversely affect the future development of
surrounding areas.
d. The proposed subdivision shall be in compliance with all applicable requirements of
this Title.
B. Suitability of land for subdivision.
a. Land suitability. The proposed subdivision shall not be located on land unsuitable for
development because of flooding, drainage, rock or soil creep, mudflow, rockslide,
avalanche or snowslide, steep topography or any other natural hazard or other
condition that will be harmful to the health, safety, or welfare of the residents in the
proposed subdivision.
b. Spatial pattern efficient. The proposed subdivision shall not be designed to create
spatial patterns that cause inefficiencies, duplication or premature extension of public
facilities and unnecessary public costs.
C. Improvements. The improvements set forth at Chapter 26.580 shall be provided for the
proposed subdivision. These standards may be varied by special review (See, Chapter 26.430) if
the following conditions have been met:
1. A unique situation exists for the development where strict adherence to the
subdivision design standards would result in incompatibility with the Aspen Area
Comprehensive Plan, the existing, neighboring development areas, and/or the goals of the
community.
Planning and Zoning Commission
Resolution Series of 2001
Page 3
2. The applicant shall specify each design standard variation requested and provide
justification for each variation request, providing design recommendations by
professional engineers as necessary.
D. Affordable housing. A subdivision which is comprised of replacement dwelling units
shall be required to provide affordable housing in compliance with the requirements of Chapter
26.520, Replacement Housing Program. A subdivision which is comprised of new dwelling units
shall be required to provide affordable housing in compliance with the requirements of Chapter
26.470, Growth Management Quota System.
E. &—School Land Dedication. Compliance with the School Land Dedication
Standards set forth at Chapter 26.630.
F. Growth Management Approval. Subdivision approval may only be granted to
applications for which all growth management development allotments have been
granted or growth management exemptions have been obtained,_ pursuant to Section
26.470. Subdivision approval may be granted to create a parcel(s) zoned Affordable
Housing Planned Unit Development (AH-PUD) without first obtaining_ growth
management approvals if the newly created parcel(s) is required to obtain such
growth management approvals prior to development through a legal instrument
acceptable to the City Attorney.
Section 3•
Pursuant to Section 26.310.050 of the Municipal Code, the adoption of this resolution by the
Planning and Zoning Commission shall not be considered a pending ordinance.
APPROVED by the Commission during a public hearing on November 6, 2001.
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
City Attorney
ATTEST:
Jackie Lothian, Deputy City Clerk
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION:
Jasmine Tygre, Chair
C:\home\Chris\CASES\Sub_no_GMQS\PZ—Reso.doc
Planning and Zoning Commission
Resolution Series of 2001
Page 4
Exhibit B
Subdivision Amendments
STAFF COMMENTS: Text Amendment
Section 26.312.040, Standards Applicable to a Land Use Code Text Amendment
In reviewing an amendment to the text of this Title, the City Council and the Commission
shall consider:
A. Whether the proposed amendment is in conflict with any applicable
portions of this title.
Staff Finding:
The proposed code amendment intends to simplify the subdivision process and allow for
vacant parcels zoned affordable housing to be created prior to growth management
approval. Significant public input opportunity is maintained with this process and staff
does not believe any conflicts are created with adoption of this language.
B. Whether the proposed amendment is consistent with all elements
of the Aspen Area Comprehensive Plan.
Staff Finding:
Staff believes these changes to the Subdivision requirements are supported by the AACP.
Private sector development of affordable housing is a stated goal of the community and
this process is a way to implement this goal.
C. Whether the proposed amendment is compatible with surrounding
zone districts and land uses, considering existing land use and
neighborhood characteristics.
Staff Finding:
This amendment is not specific to a site and actual development will need to demonstrate
adjacent compatibility prior to plan approval in the PUD process.
D. The effect of the proposed amendment on traffic generation and
road safety.
E. Whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would
result in demands on public facilities, and whether and the extent to
which the proposed amendment would exceed the capacity of such
facilities, including, but not limited to, transportation facilities,
sewage facilities, water supply, parks, drainage, schools, and
emergency medical facilities.
F. Whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would
result in significant adverse impacts on the natural environment.
staff comments page 1
•
Staff Finding:
This amendment is not specific to a site and actual development will need to demonstrate
its effects on traffic generation, road safety, infrastructure impacts, and impacts on the
natural environment.
G. Whether the proposed amendment is consistent and compatible
with the community character in the City of Aspen.
Staff Finding:
Allowing greater opportunity for the private sector to realize public goals is consistent
with the community character.
H. Whether there have been changed conditions affecting the subject
parcel or the surrounding neighborhood which support the
proposed amendment.
Staff Finding:
This amendment is not specific to a parcel. The proposed amendment is the result of a
work session with policy makers in which policy changes specific to this issue were
discussed.
I. Whether the proposed amendment would be in conflict with the
public interest, and is in harmony with the purpose and intent of this
title.
Staff Finding:
This proposed amendment does not pose any conflicts with the public interest. The
AACP reflects a community desire for affordable housing opportunities within
established neighborhoods. The community has favored private sector solutions as a
component of reaching community goals. This amendment achieves this goal.
Staff believes this Ordinance will promote the purpose and intent of this Title. This
Ordinance promotes the permanent community by emphasizing employee housing
opportunities for working residents.
C:\home\Chris\CASES\Sub_no—GMQS\PZ—EX—A.DOC
staff comments page 2
MEMORANDUM "�((,lvG p( .iZ,\,A befU
TO: Madam Mayor and City Council
Planning and Zoning Commission
THRU: Julie Ann Woods, Community Development Director
FROM: Chris Bendon, Senior Planner �w
RE: Joint Work Session Topic
Possible Code Amendment for Subdivision prior to GMQS Allotments
DATE: September 25, 2001
SUMMARY:
Presently, the Subdivision regulations require an allotment or exemption from GMQS
be acquired prior to, or in conjunction with, the review for Subdivision approval.
Subdivision has been the primary trigger for the City's growth management system
although other methods have been incorporated into the code since the original
adoption of growth management.
The Villas of Aspen requested an interpretation of the language in the Subdivision
section (the underlined text, above), appealed the interpretation to City Council in 2000.
This request was seeking a process for creating parcels with no associated growth
management allotments whereby the newly created parcel would be for affordable
housing. The City Council upheld the Director's interpretation and also requested staff
further investigate ways to allow the Subdivision of land and rezoning prior to an
applicant gaining development rights through the growth management system.
Following are some options for the two Boards to consider. It is apparent that the wishes
of this one property owner can be achieved with no changes to the Land Use Code
(option #3). Staff is requesting further direction before initiating a code amendment.
BACKGROUND:
Staff s primary concern with Subdividing and Rezoning land with no specific
development proposal is the ability to serve potential development. With no actual plan,
it is very difficult for utility agencies and service providers to estimate their ability to
serve and difficult for planning staff to assess potential impacts on the community in
general.
The lack of a development plan also places officials in an awkward role with neighbors
who are publicly noticed for a pending land use decision. Officials would be in a
position of approving a Subdivision while explaining to neighbors that the actual
development plan is an unknown. The obvious desire to define the range of acceptable
development then becomes apparent and a new development would be designed in an ad -
hoc manner.
OPTION #1. Allow for Subdivision without GMQS approval. This would simply allow a
property owner to subdivide land with wow44wat rezoning. The land could then be
transferred to anew owner for development purposes. "*PV '>_
The downside to this option is the lack of information, as described above. Staff can,
however, analyze various development scenarios for the purpose of understanding
potential impacts adequate for decision makers. Subdivision and rezoning applications
do not need to demonstrate actual development plans.
I Creating new parcels without any development rights may also lead to legal "takings"
challenges, although this could be dealt with in the subdivision ordinance.
OPTION #2:
Allow Subdivision and rezoning to occur when Conceptual PUD is approved. —
The submission of a Conceptual PUD Plan would include basic site analysis and allow
the City to determine if basic services could be provided to the newly created lot(s).
Topics such as access, land use, density, and massing could also be defined in a manner
acceptable to the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council. This would also
allow neighbors to respond to a proposal rather than a "blank slate."
Subdividing and rezoning the land at conceptual would then allow the newly created
parcel to be transferred, possibly to a developer who would further the project. Some of
the conceptual PUD application requirements might also be lessened to address only
basic threshold development issues, such as ability to serve, access, etc.
A potential downside to this approach is the possibility of the original applicant and the
final applicant having drastically different motivations and/or financial realities. The
original applicant may be very willing, for example, to address a certain community
concern while the next owner may not have the same motivation. The PUD designation
might mitigate some of these concerns by requiring certain items be included in the final
application.
OPTION #3. No change. The current process allows a developer to represent a property
owner and proceed through the PUD process. At the conclusion of the approvals
process, the land transfer is finalized and the developer proceeds with the development.
This typically occurs when a property owner wants to convey a portion of their land but
does not want to be a developer.
The Barbee Family PUD is a recent example of this practice. The family negotiated a
purchase option with a development group who then gained entitlements for the
property.
This option also allows for the conveyance of condominiumized land in which the
developer obtains a fee interest in the development parcel and then proceeds through the
review process.
2
MEMORANDUM 1N31Nd013A30 ulNnmoo
NINIld 1 N3dSd
TO: Chris Bendon, Aspen Senior Planner 100Z t 7 d3S
FROM: Mitch Haas, Haas Land Planning, LLC (13A1303N
RE: Possible Code Amendment for Subdivision & Rezoning Prior to GMQS
Allotments
DATE: September 24, 2001
Here are few thoughts worthy of consideration as to why it would make sense to enable
(through Code amendment) a process whereby a property owner could subdivide off a
vacant parcel and simultaneously rezone the vacant piece to AH/PUD without first
needing to acquire a GMQS exemption or allotment or prepare a development proposal.
• The result would involve only the ability to create a vacant lot with no inherent
development rights and only one possible way of developing it --- through the
AH/PUD review process.
• Many lots exist in Pitkin County with no development rights. Such lots are required
to apply for GMQS allotments or exemptions, as applicable, prior to development.
This system has worked without problem in the County under ANY zoning, and
should be encouraged in the City with affordable housing zoning.
• The resulting development of the vacant property would ensure a 70% to 30% ratio of
affordable housing bedrooms to free market bedrooms; otherwise, the property
would likely be developed with either single-family residential use (and an ADU or
cash -in -lieu) or at a 60%-40% split.
• The public, while maybe not getting all answers at the first level of review
(subdivision and rezoning), is afforded a higher level of participation through the
need for more public hearings. That is, the typical application includes a public
hearing before the P&Z and another before City Council (x2 for conceptual and
final). The suggested code amendment would result in public hearings before the
P&Z and again before the City Council just for the initial subdivision and rezoning
request, later followed by public hearings before both entities for the PUD review (x2
for conceptual and final).
Not every answer is needed during the rezoning review: the rezoning review can
provide a basic analysis of development potential and site suitability; specific
parameters and maximums (i.e., density, height, parking, etc.) can be established
during this initial rezoning and subdivision review. Furthermore, the rezoning
request can easily be denied if the site is thought to be unsuitable for AH?PUD
development. Later, a specific project proposal can be denied, pared down, or
•
approved subject to conditions during review of the PUD plan --- PUD reviews are
inherently open to negotiation.
• The need for GMQS allotments or exemptions is in no way avoided; it is simply
deferred to the stage where a specific development proposal is being reviewed.
The Code amendment would make possible the clear and official designation of sites
for the future development of affordable housing. This type of designation would not
be simply advisory in nature like suggesting sites in a housing plan or comprehensive
plan; rather, the type of affordable housing designation that would be made possible
would be official and mandatory. Governments routinely zone sites where they
would like to see commercial development accordingly --- so why not do the same for
affordable housing?
• The review criteria for a rezoning request will ensure consideration as to the
appropriateness of AH?PUD zoning for a given location.
The foregoing is just a few thoughts on the topic. Please consider these thoughts for
either inclusion of this in your memo or forwarding to the participants of Tuesday's work
session. Thank you.