HomeMy WebLinkAboutminutes.council.19810126Regular Meeting Aspen City Council January 26, 1981
JOINT MEETING WITH COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Mayor Edel called the meeting to order at 4:10 with Commissioners Kinsley, Child, Blake,
Klanderud and Madsen and Councilmembers Collins Behrendt, Isaac and Michael present.
1. Busway Feasibility Memorandum of Understanding. Mayor Edel said he thought a lot of
engineering studies of the approach to town were going to be done; there is no mention of
the studies in the agreement. Councilman Collins pointed out the memorandum of understand~
ing refers to the scope of work which is attached. Curt Stewart, county manager, said
a consultant has to be selected, and a contract negotiated. Stewart pointed out the memo
is drafted for the tasks to be don incrementally; if the unfeasibility of a busway is
proven as a result of this work, the study would not be completed. The reasons for this
are to save money, and if the highway is to be engineered in that corridor, the city and
county should not be paying for it.
~gu~ ~v~e~ng AsPen city Council January 26, 1981
tewart told the Boards in the EIS still pending, the highway department was leaving the
determination of what will happen at this end of the valley up to the city and county.
This study is the mechanism by which the Boards can reach that decision. Councilman-Isaa~
I noted in 93 on page one the phase that Aspen and Pitkin County can meet the operatin~
costs of their transit operations. Councilman Isaac asked if the County could meet thelrql
now, as they are cutting back operations and staff. Kinsley said the County has stated
~.~ during budget time they will not be able to operate a bus system. Kinsley said they woul~
, fund a bus system through a district. Councilman Isaac said he was concerned if the cityi
i went ahead with this study and the joint maintenance facility and the county drops out.
i Kinsley said in terms of a bus barn, he wanted to be certain there was a district on linei!
before the county puts any money into the facility.
Stewart told the Boards the staff has researched the legal requirements for the formationil
of a district, and .a work session will be scheduled. For the maintenance facility, the
county has a grant from UMTA for $5,500,000. If the county does not want to have anythin~
to do with that facility, the city can pick up the ball and go with it. Stewart said
a system in this valley has to be created that works for everybody. Councilwoman Michaelil
asked that Snowmass be included in these meetings. Child said Eagle county is planning
a transportation district election; perhaps the two districts can be joined or work
together.
Councilwoman Michael moved to appove the memorandum of understanding between Pitkin
County and the City of Aspen and the State on the busway feasibility study; seconded by
Commissioner Kinsley. All in favor, motion carried.
RUEDI RESERVOIR RESOLUTION #3, SERIES OF 1981
John Musick presented a letter and resolution, which had been changed at the direction
the Boards to take out any threatening response and put in a more positive offer.
Snowmass and Carbondale have signed similar resolutions. City Manager Chapman requested
a change of language to "take into account" the CWCB's study, because the Boards do not
know what study will be, to substitute "is fully responsive to". Commissioner Child
questioned the liability of the dam to the owners in number 6, page three. Musick
suggested strengthening that with "in contract negotiations, we do not intend to assume
those liabilities". MUsick explained he wrote the letter the way it was because the
four items listed were important considerations to the Boards; the issues are to be
raised specifically and they will be addressed in the negotiations.
Councilman Behrendt moved to approved Joint resolution #3; seconded by Councilman Isaac.
All in favor, with the exception of Commissioner Child. Motion carried.
REPORT ON OIL SHALE 1981 CONFERENCE
Commissioner Kinsley told the Boards he had attended the first citizen-based conference
on oil shale in Grand Junction with members of staff and many people from Aspen. Kinsley
said it was very successful. The conference toured the Rio Blanco/CB tract and the
Parahoe facility and got the story from the industry. The next day, the conference got
the view from other people involved, citizen advocate, environmentalists, planners. The
last presentation was a show of the western states and all the energy developments; it
is very awesome, oil shale is only part of a potential impact. Kinsley said millions of
dollars are being invested by different industries. Facilities are underway. Kinsley
gave the Boards some reports; one from environmental health officer Lee Casein, about the
effect On air and water quality.
Kinsley said the 400,000 barrel a day level is a near certainty, and what ~s needed ~s to~i
figure out how best to deal with the impacts and to mitigate the impacts of this develop-il
ment. One report outlines constraints on development beyond a 400 barrel a day operation
which is crucial. ~T~is ~evelOpment could give a population increase in a two county
area per year about the size of Glenwood Springs. The constraints are air quality
standards; the leasing policy of the BLM. 'A favorable area is the area of subsidy and
various Federal supports; however, the philosophy of the federal government on oil shale
and government assistance is very consistent. Kinsley suggested that both bodies join
the Wester Colorado Congress, a western based operation created by this conference and is
an amalgamation of recreational and environmental interests. Kinsley said it costs $50
to join. Councilman Behrendt Said he would like to see if Snowmass wants to join also.
Mayor Edel said the CAST board will discuss oil shale to see what kind of action they can
take.
Councilman Behrendt moved the city and county and perhaps Snowmass join Western Colorado
Congress; seconded by Councilman Isaac. All in favor, motion carried.
COUNCIL MEETING
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE
Councilman Isaac questioned the unauthorized purchase orders and said that department head~
are not to spend money without permission at this point. City Manager Chapman told Council
he had asked all department to submit plans for a 5 per cent budget cut in 1 per cent
increments. Council asked to see a copy of the 5 per cent cut back report. Councilman
Isaac said he would like a policy of no more unauthorized purchases, especially in light
of decreased revenues. Ms. Butterbaugh told Council there are times when this is unavoid-
able and it is not a case of a department spending unauthorized monies.
Councilman Isaac moved to approve the accounts payable; seconded by Councilman Behrendt.
All in favor, motion carried.
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION
1. Mickey Shemin told Council he has been working on a project with the Aspen High School
students to raise money for their graduation. Shemin had suggested trying to put on a
circus at the Wheeler Opera House; however, he has run into opposition from the fire
Regular Meeting Aspen City Council January 25,
marshal. Shemin had given the proposition to City Manager Chapman, who was position about
it. There were a list of conditions, cinluding having people patrolling the building.
One of the conditions was that the acts be approved by the fire marshal. There is also
a structural report from the engineer saying nothing over 1000 pounds. The fire marshal
said he did not want animals on the third floor of the Wheeler because they could panic or
rush into the audience or block fire exits. Shemin tried an alternative location, the
elementary school, and got another list of conditions from the fire marshal, some are
reasonable but some are exaggerated. Assistant City Manager Butterbaugh told Council that
Swales still has the lease for the third floor. However, any act on that floor must have
the permission of the city manager. The staff has spent a lot of time tyring to figure
out what could be done there, and evaluated this proposal from being the owners of the
building. Ms. Butterbaugh pointed out the administration has the option of approving or
not for any reason at all and the staff has explained to Shemin their concerns. The
staff objections are not necessarily to the animals but with the large crowds.
City Manager Chapman explained the staff told Shemin he had best look for alternatives.
The fire chief and fire marshal have gone over this several times, and this building needs
a lot of code improvements.
2. Jeff Sachs asked to speak briefly about the Castlewood/Headgate Conceptual PUD. Mayor
Edel said this is not a public hearing; he should submit this item to the City Manager
and there is ample time to speak at the public hearings at P & Z.
COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS
1. Councilman Van Ness asked about the new traffic light on Main street. City Manager
Chapman told Council the state highway department has completed its study, which showed
that two additional lights are warranted. The highway department will get back to the
city with a full report of where and what the construction schedule is. Councilman Behren~ t
requested these lights be set up for timing.
2. Councilman Van Ness stated it is never too early to plan for air conditioning for the
Chambers for the summer. Councilwoman Michael said people in the back of the room still
cannot hear.
3. Councilman Isaac said he would like the water shortage possibility discussed and asked
the City Manager and water department to initiate a plan for conservation of water.
Councilman Behrendt said he would like the water department to finalize putting people on
meters.
4. Councilman Behrendt brought up the sixth penny land fund report and requested this be
scheduled for'the next Council study session for an update.
5. Councilwoman Michael stated the malls need sweeping and requested Chapman to inquire
about the schedule.
6. Councilwoman Michael reminded the Council of lunch with the Snowmass Town Council and
County Commissioners on Tuesday,
7. Mayor Edel requested ordinance #50, Series of 1980, be taken out of the consent agenda
and moved earlier up on the agenda.
CASTLEWOOD/HEADGATE CONCEPTUAL P.U.D./SUBDIVISION REVIEW
Sunny Vann, planning director, reminded Council the last place this is in the process is
a revised submission of preliminary plat before P & Z. There was concern on both the
planning office and the applicants in the ability to interpret directives from P & Z and
Council at re-entering the process at preliminary plat. The staff has looked for a proces
by which the applicant could reutnr to conceptual before Council to get an idea how well
they had interpreted the Council's directives. One concern on behalf of the applicant in
re-entering the process there was time that may be wasted in continuing the process and
being able to proceed in the spring, by coming back to conceptual at Council at this time,
it was worked out that no additional time was lost. Another concern of the applicant
revolved around their legal concerns about their position as a result of prior Council
approval. Acting City Attorney Bob Grueter presented Resolution ~4, saying the applicant,
by going back to conceptual has waived none of the legal rights they might have. Grueter
stated whether or not they have any legal rights or not, he is not sure. This keeps both
parties clean.
Councilman Van Ness moved to read Resolution ~4, Series of 198; seconded by Councilwoman
Michael. All in favor, motion carried.
RESOLUTION #4
(Series of 1981)
WHEREAS, there is concern on the part of Marolt that it may jeopardize
legal rights which may have accrued by virtue of actions by the City of Aspen
during the heretofore subdivision process, and
WHEREAS, the City of Aspen has requested Marolt to choose between two
alternative methods in continuing the subdivision process, that is Marolt may
submit an amended Preliminary Plat, or go back to City Council at conceptual
phase, and
WHEREAS, the City, through its staff has stated its preference that Marolt
go back to City Council at conceptual phase, and
WHEREAS, it is the position of the City of Aspen that Marolt, by going
back to City Council at conceptual phase, shall not waive any rights which may
have accrued during the heretofore subdivision process.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ASPEN,
COLORADO, that the City of Aspen hereby covenants and agrees that Marolt will
not waive any legal rights which may have accrued d~ring the heretofore subdivi
sion proceedings, and that by going back to City Council at conceptual phase,
Marolt shall not be deemed to have waived any rights, legal or otherwise, with
respect to any prior actions on the part of marolt or the City of Aspen in
Aspen City Council
~e~ ~ January z~, ±~±
connection with the subdivision process for the subject property and the
Annexation Agreement executed in contemplation thereof and that Ma~olt shall
retain the same rights, remedies and claims as may have accrued and which
may have been asserted if Marolt did not agree to go back to Council at the
conceptual phase
Councilman Van Ness moved to adopt resolution ~4, Series of 1981,; seconded by Councilman
Isaac. All in favor, motion carried.
Sunny Vann reminded the work session of December 8, 1980, between Council and P & Z was
in response to some concerns raised by P & Z. It was a consensus of P & Z and Council
this particular project was desirable and could be improved. These are that the employee
housing be relocated to the southernmost extremity of the site; the overall density be
reduced to around 100 units; Main street right-of-way be dedicated as the preferred align-
ment for entrance of Aspen; the project be subject to six month minimum lease restrictions
and efforts be made to minimize the rental rates for the emplOyee portion of the project.
The applicant has addressed all these concerns, and the city has had work sessions on
transportation.
Vann told Council the revised project has relocated employee housing portion on the south
the overall density is reduced to 104 units; 73 employee and 31 free market units. The
emPloyee portion is 36 two-bedroom units, 19 one-bedroom and 18 studioes; the sizes of
these units have been reduced but are within the guidelines. The average per square foot
rental cost is approximately $.70, slightly below the upper~end of the current price
guidelines for middle income; however, at the time of occupation, this cost will approxi-
mate the moderate income category. These units are consolidated into six buildings, thre~
stories.
Vann said from the point of view of the planning office, the underlying zone density
without using residential bonus is 100 units after slope reduction, rights-of-way, etc.
Density of 104 units would necessitate rezoning to residential bonus to get the extra
units. Vann stated a reductiOn3 of 4 units would not have any drastic effect on the visua~
impact. In order to accomplish that, the overall density reduction would be 80 or 90
units. Vann told Council there has been little site or design change in the free market
portion of the project except to remove a few units. The remainder of the site, the open
space would be dedicated to the city. The Main street right-of-way would be dedicated
along the original alignment. The free market portion of the project does intrude into
the old Midland right-of-Wa~. On the basis of the engineering report, it is conceivable
the city would have a portion of the property at another site and the crossing of the
river could occur there. There is a potential for some alignment; however, it will not
be dedicated. Vann said language could be inserted in the subdivision agreement that the
city, as owner of the propertY, to utilize it for a right-of-way in the event one were
required.
Vann told Council the applicant has requested an exemption for parking from the one space
per bedroom. A satisfactory agreement was worked out; they will provide two spaces per
unit as covered parking, with additional spaces indicated on the site plan in the event
it were required. Vann said the consensus of opinion regarding access is that the project
should be serviced off Cemetery Lane; there should be no access to Castle Creek from the
employee portion of the project. Councilman Behrendt asked if there is to be a trail
from the employee portion to the transportation stop. Vann said a condition of the P & Z
approval is a trails system integranted into the existing county trail system and for~
access to all different transportation alternative. Councilman Behrendt asked if there
were a provision to maintain these trails in the winter, by plow, to indicate some access
to the bUsway. The applicants said that was fine with them.
Vann said the remaining issue becomes the six month minimum lease restrictions, which
Council and P & Z both turned down a request for exemption. Vann stated there is no
mechanism to exempt as this is a requirement of condominiumization, and the Council would
ha~e to amend the Code for that. Vann said he needed from Council an affirmation of the
plan as submitted as to density, rents for employee units, their siting and size, a
position regarding the six month minimum lease, the Main street and Midland r~ghts-of-way,!
and any other attached conditions. CoUncilman Behrendt asked if it is stated the city
intends to revise the whole area plan of access and transportation. Vann told Council th~
subdivision agreement which they will execute will include language with flexibility to
hook intO the city's system - the concerns will be spelled out. Councilman Behrendt said
he would not like to impose the present six month ordinanCe; however, he would like some
kind of six month rental restrictions imposed.
Jim Mulligan, attorney for the application, told Council this six month restriction is
essential issue. The applicant can go with condominiums or fee simple townhouse lots
chose condominiums because they are easier from packaging, marketing and financing, It
also could b~ easier for the city to deal with one entity rather than 31 owners, etc.
Mulligan stated he understood the concern of setting a precedent for other projects, but
he felt Section 20-19 allowed an exemption and would not set a precedent. Mulligan said
they feel it is difficult if not impossible to finance with the six month minimum lease
restriction. Mulligan reiterated they could go with the fee simple lots; however, they
prefer the condominium process. Mulligan told Council the six month statute came about
because of tenant displacement with no other discussions and was passed to solve the
tenant displacement problem in conversions. This project does not displace but adds to
the employee units of the local housing stock. Mulligan said the planning office has
indicated this is not applicable in residential districts like R-6 and R-15, and they are
not doing anything in conflict with the underlying zone district in asking for an exempti~.
Mulligan suggested this exemption could be achieved by amending the 70/30 ordinance to
allow exemption or through Section 20 of the Code to show undue hardship.
Bub Grueter, acting City Attorney, told Council that Section 20-22 does not speak to
whether it is conversions or new buildings or both. P & Z has been working on an amend-
ment and has not come up with anything. The underlying zoning does not require six month
minimum leases, only when a project is condominiumized. The 70/30 ordinance does not
address the six month minimum lease question; this comes from Section 20-22. Grueter
told Council he feels there is a method to exempt the project from six month minimum
leases in 20-19, if it is the desire of Council. Councilman Isaac agreed one of the
reasons for the six month clause was for conversions; however, there is another desire
to keep tourists in the downtown area where services are and not have this spread all ove
town. Councilman Van Ness agreed and added it was the expressed concern of Council that
residential neighborhoods not become tourist-oriented, with big changeovers. It was also
the concern of Council to preserve residentail neighborhoods as well as protect tenant
displacement.
Vann stated the issue from planning's point of view is a land use issue, which is to
retain short-term areas. The 70/30 ordinance was not intended to have tourist related
areas in exchange for employee housing. The planning office has argued that as an R-15
zone, this is inappropriate location for tourist-related uses. The applicants have
planned for packaged amenities for short-term tourist related uses. There is a mechanism
around this restriction by going to fee simple interest, which the City does not regulate
In the condominiumization of this project, the integrity of the zone district remainds.
Grueter told Council they could make the six month minimum requirement in the PUD no
matter which method the applicant chooses. Vann said staff needed a directive of whether
or not to allow short term use of the project.
Mayor Edel stated the Council and staff have been trying to restrain tourist accommoda-
tions to certain areas. If this project is opened up, it would be defeating that
purpose. Mulligan pointed out if the surrounding neighborhoods do not have these
restrictions, then this project would be consisten with those neighborhoods.
Carly Wood presented a plan of the project with the employee portion moved to the south
as requested, reduced in size Co 4.3 acres with a density of 73 units. The access to the
parcel is from Cemetery Lane and follows an alignment of the connection ~roposed between
Cemetery Lane and Castle Creek. The developer will build a 30 foot roadway to access
that parcel; it could be extended in the future to 60 feet and on to Castle Creek road.
The Main street extension is accommodated and has been worked on with the City staff.
The plan as presented does not negate any decisions made with staff in work session.
Ms. Wood pointed out that of the 35 acre parcel, the portions developed will be 6.8 acres
and 4.3 acres, Which is 11 aqres. The remaining 17 acres will be open meadow, an extensi~
of the Thomas property, the river corridor is left untouched. The road rights-of-ways,
open space, river corridor, givers the City 22 acres of dedicated land. Ms. Wood stated
the applicants feel this 800 feet of open space is sufficient for any future right-of-way
that might go through. It is detrimental to this project having the Main street and
Cemetery Lane extensions go through, not to mention a possible roadway on the other side
of the parcel. Mayor Edel asked if Opal Marolt were going to retain her home. Ms. Wood
answered yes and it would be moved to be contiguous with the barn to make a last vestige
of the Marolt ranch. The family may wish to make it a museum. Councilman Behrendt asked
about the old Marolt driveway. Ms. Wood showed where it is and said it could be
abandoned or made into a trail.
Vann told Council there will be open space agreements for all parcels dedicated to the
city, which the parks department will review prior to approval. Councilman Isaac asked
if the Marolt house was included in the 31 free market units. The applicant answered it
was not'counted as it will not be a unit. Councilman Isaac asked how long and under what
guidelines the employee housing would be. Vann said they will be dedicated for 50 years
and they fall at the upper end of the middle price guidelines, which is approximately
$.70 per square foot; however, with the city increases , at the time of occupance, the
price guidelines would fall in the moderate category. Restricting the project to moderat9
at this point would be considerably less than $.70 per square foOt.
Vann said he would like Council to address the density of 104 units, the rent structure,
the building envelopes of the revised location of the employee housing, Main street right-
of way dedication and what they wish to do about Midland right-of-way, the six month
minimum restriction or prohibition against short term, and the access issue, trails and
busway issues to be figured out.
Councilwoman Michael moved to approve the Castlewood/Headgate conceptual PUD/subdivision
review with the following conditions: (1) that the development include 104 living units,
that being 73 employee housing units and 31 free market units, (2) that rentals on the
employee housing units conform to middle income guidelines of $.70 per square foot, (3)
that the development provide two parking spaces per dwelling unit with the provision of
one parking space per bedroom in the event it is determined it is required, (4) the
provision of right-of-way for possible Main street extension; dedication of two major oper
space areas, the land along the Castle creek corridor and the undeveloped area south of
the free market portion of the project; (5) prohibition against short term rentals in the
development, (6) access to the development to be off highway 82 in the Cemetery Lane areai
and (7) location of the employee housing units to the southernment portion of the propert
seconded by Councilman Van Ness.
Jeffrey Sachs, representing Aspen Growth Management Foundation, said the groups feels thi
project is the moment of truth for the ~growth management plan in Aspen. This is a specia
and critical open space area at the entrance to town, and the planning office has tried
to keep it that way. Under the county, 16 or 17 units would be permitted and most of
them would be employee housing. The land has been deliberately upzoned to R-15A/PUD to
allow 104 units. Sachs said he could not recall a precedent after the growth management
plan has been adopted to allow a private person to upzone his land, apart from going
through the growth management process under the applicable rules for development. Sachs
stated the 70/30 ordinance is a good ordinance applied to a modest size project, but to
a project of this size, it will totally defeat the growth management plan. The reason
is that there is no competition; because of no grading and scoring, they will not achieve
quality. Secondly, no projects will be dispersed through the city. One of Council's
is tO disperse employee housing throughout the city. The city is setting a precedent for
each large parcel of land to be developed into a ma~or housing project. This is contrary
to good planning; the density should be in the city core and not the outskirts. The city'~
annual quota under GMP of 39 units is used up by many exemptions before people are even
allowed to compete for the free market units. If the Council allows projects like this to
be approved and counted, the ability of developers in the city to obtain an allotment is
defeated. Sachs said a revenue bond for this applicant is highly discriminatory. This
is not available to all other earnest developers to come in and compete in the GMP.
Sachs told Council if they went ahead and the developers may rely upon the conceptual
approval, his group may make a special effort to seek a referendum or initiative to either
repeal the 70/30 ordinance or to limit it by amendment to projects about the size of a
dozen units. Sachs said the group agreed with the six month rental restrictions, that it
has always been the sens of Council they do not want to create tourist areas in residentia
zones. Sachs pointed out in the PUD process, the Council can impose any restriction they
want, even if-the applicant goes with fee-simple town lots.
All in favor, with the exception of Councilmembers Isaac and Collins. Motion carried.
PLUM TREE INN PURCHASE RECOMMENDATIONS
Acting City Attorney Bob Grueter disqualilied himself. City Manager Chapman reminded
Council staff has presented a marketing plan in September, Council had approved this, and
staff had indicated they would bring to Council recommendations regarding the offers
received. At that time, Council rejected the idea of selecting the preferred alternative
and reopening the bids. Staff recommends to stick with the marketing plan; however, it
was always intended that negotations on the proposals would take place. Staff would like
Council to narrow the field of applicants to between 1 and 3, Chapman told Council the
negotiating process could be either sequential or simultaneous. If there is one proposal
that Council feels very comfortable with, establish a deadline and negotiate a firm contra(
If there are two proposals Council is interested in, staff recommends entering into a
simultaneous negotiation.
Chapman said if Council can narrow the field to 1, 2, or 3, the staff recommends getting
the same firm which gave the City the original opinion of value, review the economics of
the proposals and give a definite opinion of value on these proposals. Council will have
to develope a list of negotiating goals. Josh Saslove of the Moore-Biard group said they
would like the opportunity to sit down with Council after they have found out what the
community wants and needs. They would be able to make a lot of concessions and changes.
Mayor Edel said he read the five proposals in depth, and from the five has come up with
two that are strong offers. These do have some elements lacking that would be of benefit
to the city. Jim Trueman, Red Roof Inns, told Council they made a firm offer addressed
to what Council asked for in September. Trueman said they put forth a number to buy the
Plum Tree, asked to add 20 similar units.
Chapman reminded Council from the beginning, it was intended the city would negotiate on
any offers that were received; the city is trying to arrange the best outcome. Jon Seigle
representing Aspen Park, told Council their concept is to have a destination resort at the
golf course to complement the city's efforts at the golf course. They have attempted to
get the aesthetics up to 1980 standards. Aspen Park submitted to tear down the lodge w~ng
keep the existing public facilities, and replace the lodge rooms with 50 condominium units
of 112 bedrooms. They propose to renovate the existing public portion of the project, the
tennis courts and pool and keep them public. They propose to donate the pro shop, office,
locker room and golf-cart storage to the City. There would be a restaurant and bar, a
conference room for 100 people, and employee housing. Seigle said this project would
generate the most money for sale, and revenue on a yearly operating basis. (Councilman
Collins left Chambers).
The HBR groups was not present. Hans Gramiger handed out a rating sheet with a self
rating and explained his proposal. They plan to house all employees on site. Gramiger
stated this community needs a destination resort. Gramiger said the city only received
proposals for condominiums, quick get in and quick get out. Gramiger said on behalf of
his principle, he made an offer for a destination resort, full-service hotel complex with
large convention facilities. Gramiger said as long as there are plans to redevelop a
non-conforming use, the justification for doing this must be a substantial benefit to the
long range economy of this resort, not a condominium project strictly for profit.
Mayor Edel read a letter from Councilman Parry, stating the Council should determine the
number of units they want at the site. Aspen Park would not double the density. Council-
man Parry stated he would like to see a good pro shop, storage for carts, conference
facilities. Councilman Parry's choice was Aspen Park. Mayor Edel said he felt there are
two proposals which warrant the city's pursuit, Red Roofs and Aspen Park. Mayor Edel said
he felt it was important to have an adequate pro shop and storage facilities and there be
some sort of contingency there be no cost to the city for some time period. Aspen Park
showed how they would remedy the employee housing and would house 10 to 20 employees
depending upon the needs of the project. Councilman Behrendt asked how many existing
square feet there is now and how much they propose. Seigle answered %here is about 24,000
for the lodge part now and propose close to 60,000 square feet. Mayor Edel said the
interested parties in negotiating with the city should depost a $50,000 interest bearing
check.
.
Sunny Vann, planning director, told Council that all proposals would involve review by thet
P & Z and Council, and new legislation depending upon which is chosen. Councilwoman
Michael said her choices would be Red Roofs, Aspen Park and ~BR; all three of them are in
the middle of the road in terms of number of bedrooms that is reasonable. Councilwoman
Michael sa~d she would vote for one only ~f all support facilities at the golf course
are provided by the developer; the parking is reasonable; the employee housing is commen-
surate with the number of employees. Councilwoman Michael said she thought the existing
lodge is not attractive to the entrance to town. Councilwoman Michael said not one of
the proposals offers enough money.
Councilman Behrendt said his first choice is Reed Roof Inns; their proposal is the simplest
Councilman Behrendt said he was concerned about the GMP. Aspen Park proposal has a lot
more construction. Councilman Isaac said his first two choices are Red Roofs and Aspen
Park; however, he is leaning toward Red Roof because they have more experience in lodge
management. Councilman Isaac said not everyone who comes to Aspen wants a condominium to
stay in. Councilman Isaac asked Red Roofs about employee housing. Jim Trueman said they
have suggested 12 to 15 units, which would house employees to run a lodge that size.
Councilman Van Ness said he did not think the building is that ugly. Councilman Van Ness
said he like the Red Roof proposal best. He would prefer to see the building stay the way
it is. Councilman Van Ness said the Council has a responsibility to make sure the communit
gets a good value on this.
Councilman Behrendt moved to have the city manager enter into further discussions with
Aspen Park and Red Roof groups on the Plum Tree property for February 23; seconded by
Councilman Van Ness. Councilman Van Ness said the Council has to sit down and decide what
the parameters are. All in favor, motion carried.
ORDINANCE #50, SERIES OF 1980 - Employee Units in Lodges
Councilman Isaac moved to read Ordinance #50, Series of 1980; seconded by Councilman Van
Ness. All in favor, motion carried.
ORDINANCE 950
(Series of 1980)
AN ORDINANACE AMENDING ARTICLE XIII OF CHAPTER 24 OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE
CITY OP ASPEN BY THE ADOPTION OF A NEW SECTION 13.11 WHICH ALLOWS THE ENLARGEMENT
EXTENSION, CONSTRUCTION, RECONSTRUCTION, OR sTRUCTURAL ALTERATION OF A NON-CONFORMIN(
LODGE FOR THE PURPOSE OF ADDING EMPLOYEE HOUSING AND ESTABLISHING~A REVIEW PROCESS,
CONDITIONS AND REVIEW CRITERIA FOR SUCH APPROVAL was read by the city clerk
Mayor Edel opened the public hearing.
Mark Danielsen requested the deletion of the 700 square feet limitation on the size of the
units in the residential areas to allow lodges in R-6 and R-15 to have more than 700 square
feet dedicated to employee housing. The larger lodges need to create more employee housine
Danielsen suggested the limitation be taken away and allow the employee units to be done
by special review. Sunny Vann, planning director, told Council there are no area and bulk
requirements in the residential zone; therefore, a limitation on size was put on these
units. This also allows the conversion of existing lodge rooms to employee housing and the
creation of new lodge units as long as it evens out. The 700 square feet was the size of
proposed caretaker units in-the R-6 through R-30 zones and reflects the comments received
from the public. In the other zones, there are FARs that would limit the size of the
overall bulk consistent with the zones.
Gideon Kaufman told Council there would be a safeguard to the size of the units because
this is a conditional use and would have to have review and approval. Kaufman said the
purpose of this ordinance is to get employee housing; if the units are in the basement,
there is no impact on the bulk. The Council should allow flexibility in case the right
projects come along. Vann pointed out there is unlimited square footage in a basement.
because there is no increase in the bulk. Perry Harvey told Council the P & Z wanted to
cut back on special review; however, he felt the 700 square feet is an arbitrary numbers,
and that flexibility is really important. The goal is produce employee housing and to
produce it in a equal share throughout the community. Putting in the 700 square foot will
limit and will put the employee housing underground. Councilman Isaac said he would agree
with a clause for special review. Council discussed this and decided to stay with the
700 square feet.
Councilman Van Ness moved to adopt Ordinance #50, Series of 1980, on second reading;
seconded by Councilman Isaac. Roll call vote; Councilmembers Michael, aye; Isaac, aye;
Van Ness, aye; Behrendt, abtain; Mayor Edel, aye. Motion carried.
Gideon Kaufman passed out some proposed changes to the lodge condominiumization ordinance
which should address some of Council's concerns with this ordinance. These proposed chang~
will go to P & Z.
ORDINANCE 95, SERIES OF 1981 - Aspen Sanitation District Rezoning and Emp!oyee housing
Mayor Edel asked if there had been any discussion about exchanging property with the
sanitation district so they could be somewhere else and give the city the property so the
city could maximize the use of the space for open space. Albie Kern, representing the
applicant, said this has never been discussed. The~operation of the sanitation district
has been suspended but not cancelled; they may have to come back and operate. Councilman
Behrendt said the thrust of the community has been to move the sanitation facility.
Sunny Vann reminded Council they had tabled this and asked him to look into various matter~
regarding this. The employee units will be solely for the use of the sanitation district
and there is no need for more than four urrits. The amount of land that is being rezoned
to residential bonus, there can be no further intrusion to the south along the greenway.
There are no plans to dismantle the sanitation plant because of the uncertainty of the
future. There is a physical limitation to the number of units they can build. Vann told
Council his recommendation for approval is contingent upon the limited nature of impact
there is n'ow.
Vann explained to Council this is an application to utilize the residential bonus overlay
to construct four deed-restricted employee housing units. This property is zoned under
two different categories; "public" and "park" with a drainage overlay. This RB ordinance
does not provide for construction of housing in the "park" zone; therefore, it is necessar,
to rezone a portion of the property from "park" to "public" to allow construction of
employee housing. Because this is a multi-family structure, it also requires subdivision
approval.
Vann told Council there will be no parceling of the land; this is defining a zoning
boundary. They have taken some land out of park, rezoned it public and RBO. Vann told
Council since all area and bulk requirements in the public zone are established by SPA,
the Council must adopt an SPA plan for the site, as well as special review approval for th~
employee housing units. P & Z reviewed this and addressed all reviews separately. This
area is part of the greenway plan; however, Council adopted a housing plan which said ther~
will be some trade-offs in the name of employee housing. The location of the units will
mitigate the concern of intrusion into the greenway. Vann pointed out this is a low densit
area, There was an original concern this development might preclude the use of this area
for snow dumping.~
Vann told Council the advantages of this proposal is that it does cluster the development
to minimize the impacts on the greenway. There is 100 feet of greenway preserved between
the units and the river. This development may force a new solution to the city's snow
dumping issue. Deed restricting all four units will be consistent with the city's adopted
housing action plan. The parking and utilities proPosed are sufficient. The site is clos~
to major services and to transportation. P & Z recommended approval of the rezoning from
park to public/RB subject to the following conditions; existing vegeHation be preserved on
the site; improvement of the landscaping of the remaining greenway when snow dumping is
removed; stream margin review, identification of 100 year f!oodiplan - avoidance of devel-
opment in that location; approval of on-site drainage; deed restriction of the unit; a
revised site plan.
Albie Kern told Council the sanitation district is trying to provide four employee units
for their employees. This is a public institution supported taxpayers. They are provid-
ing these units to upgrade and keep their employees. Kenn reiterated with the growth of
the area and the use of the joint plant, the old sanitiation plant may have to be opened
again. Councilman Van Ness as'ked about the snowdumping issue and what the arrangement is.
Kern said the city would like some assurance or find out what is going to happen; Kern
stated he did not know what will happen. Councilman Van Ness pointed out the Council has
passed legislation to permit and encourage this type of housing, and this plan does not
seem to interfere with the other issues.
Vann told Council this procedure also requires subdivision exception for the four unit
multi-family complex; there is no parceling of the property involved. The,P & Z attached
conditions to this exception. The third approval required is an SPA approval for the site
plan itself, the setbacks, the area and bulk, open space, etc. The fourth review required
is sPecial review approval for the employee housing units, which is conditioned upon six
month rental restrictions, a deed restriction to moderate income guidelines, and a prohibi-
tion against condominiumization.
Councilwoman Michael moved to read Ordinance #5, Series of 1981; seconded by Councilman
Behrendt. All in favor, motion carried.
ORDINANCE ~5
(Series of 1981)
AN ORDINANCE REZONING THAT PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF ASPEN, COLORADO, AS DESCRIBED
IN EXHIBIT "A" ATTACHED HERETO AND INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE FROM P (PARK)
TO Pub (PUBLIC) AND Pub/RB (PUBLIC/RESIDENTIAL BONUS OVERLAY) was read by the
city clerk
Councilwoman Michael moved to adopt Ordinance 95, Series of 1981, on first reading; seconded
by Councilman Behrendt. Roll call vote; Councllmembers Isaac, aye; Van Ness, ave; Michael~!
aye; Behrendt, aye; Mayor Edet, aye. Motion carried.
Councilwoman Michael moved to read Ordinance #7, Series of 1981; seconded by Councilman Va~
Ness. All in favor, motion carried.
ORDINANCE #7
(Series of 1981)
AN ORDINANCE REZONING THAT PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF ASPEN, COLORADO, AS DESCRIBED
IN EXHIBIT "A" ATTACHED HERETO AND INCORPORATED BY THIS REFERENCE, ACCORDING TO
AN APPROVED SPECIALLY PLANNED AREA MASTER PLAN FOR THE SITE, THE ELEMENTS OF
WHICH MASTER PLAN WILL CONSTITUTE THE DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS FOR THE AREA LL
AS PROVIDED BY ARTICLE VII OF CHAPTER 24 OF THE ASPEN MUNICIPAL CODE was read
by the city clerk
Councilwoman Michael moved to adopt Ordinance #7, Series of 1981, on first reading; seconded
by Councilman Behrendt. Roll call vote; Councilmembers Michael, aye; Behrendt, aye;
Van Ness, aye; Isaac, aye; Mayor Edel, aye. Motion carried.
Councilwoman Michael moved to approve the applicants request for subdivision exception with
the following conditions: (1) revisions of the final plat to include existing and proposed
fence around the existing treatment plant, (2) revision of the final plat to include
adjacent parcels including the Rio Grande alignment, (3) revision of the final plat to
include Mill street right-of-way and proposed access including necessary easements, (4)
prohibition against condominiumization; seconded by Councilman Behrendt. All in favor
motion carried.
Councilwoman Michael moved to grant special review approval for the employee housing units
subject to the following conditions; (1) six month minimum lease restrictions of Section
20-22; (2) deed restriction to moderate income guidelines, (3) prohibition against condo-
miniumization; seconded by Councilman Behrendt. All in favor, motion carried.
RIO GRANDE TASK FORCE REPORT - This item was tabled until February 23, 1981.
Regular Meetin9 ..... Aspg~ ~!~Y_ ~o?Dnil ............... J~npg~Y ~6~.__~8! ...............................
LIQUOR LICENSE;RENEWAL - Andre's Club
City Manager Chapman asked that this be tabled so that Council has an opportunity to
look at the supplemental questionnaire the staff has developed.
ORDINANCE #2, SERIES OF 1981 - Noise Abatement
Councilwoman Michael moved to read Ordinance #2, Series of 1981; seconded by Councilman
Behrendt. All i~ favor, motion carried.
ORDINANCE 92
(Series of 1981)
AN ORDINANCE REPEALING CHAPTER 16, SECTION 1 THROUGH 4, OF THE REVISED ORDINANCES
OF THE CITY OF ASPEN, AS AMENDED, ENTITLED "NOISE" AND ENACTING A NEW ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 16, SECTIONS 1 THROUGH 11, INCLUSIVE, ENTITLE "NOISE ABATEMENT", WHICH
RELATES TO DEFINITIONS AND STANDARDS, PROHIBITIONS, EXEMPTIONS, PERMITS AND
RELATED MATTERS was read by the city clerk
Mayor Edel opened the public hearing. Gideon Kaufman, representing Andre Ulrych, pointed
out to Council the purpose of the CC zone is to enhance the business character in the
central core of the city. Permitted uses are nightclubs; residential uses are limited to
accessory status. Kaufman told CounCil that Ulrych spent a lot of money to renovate and
operate this night club. This is an asset to the town and is within the character and
intent of the CC district. This ordinance will adopt new guidelines that will affect the
operation of this business. In the past, noise ms measured 25 feet from the property line
now it is measured from where the occurance takes place. The 25 feet can make a big
difference.
Tom Dunlop, environmental health officer, explained to Council he does not go out and look
for violations; this is handle~ on a complaint basis. Dunlop told Council he has had
complaints, infrequently, against Andre's for the last two years. There has been complaint
against other businesses in town also. Dunlop has worked with these businesses trying to
work out how to keep things quieter. Councilman Van Ness asked what this ordinance changes
Dunlop answered th'e decibel level is 55 at night and 60 during the day in the commercial
core. Dunlop told Council noone complains during the day about noise levels. Another
change in the ordinance is to measure the decibel level from the property line rather than
from 25 feet away. Mayor Edel closed the public hearing.
Councilman Beh~endt moved to adopt Ordinance #2, Series of 1981, on second reading;
seconded by Councilwoman Michael. Roll call vote; Councilmembers Behrendt, aye; Van Ness,
aye; Isaac, aye; Michael, aye; Mayor Edel, aye. Motion carried. Councilwoman Michael left
Chambers.
ORDINANCE ~3, SERIES OF 1981 -Model Traffic Code Amendment.
Councilman Isaac moved to read Ordinance #3, Series of 1981; seconded by Councilman Behrend
All in favor, motion carried.
ORDINANCE #3
(Series of 1981)
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 19-2(a) OF THE 1977 EDITION OF THE MODERL TRAFFIC
CODE FOR COLORADO MUNICIPALITIES BY THE DELETION OF THE WORD "MUFFLERS" was read
by the city clerk.
Mayor Edel opened,the, public hearing. Dunlop explained this ordinance is necessary to make
the former ordinanc~ work. Mayor Edel closed the public hearing.
Councilman Behrendt moved to adopt Ordinance #3, Series of 1981, on second reading; seconde<
by Councilman Isaac. Roll call vote; Councilmembers Isaac, aye; Van Ness, aye; Behrendt,
aye; Mayor Edel, aye. Motion carried.
SUBDIVISION EXCEPTION - Nostdahl-Marthinsson
Sunny Vann, planning director, told Council this is a request for condominiumization of a
building on Park Avenue, zoned R-6 and containing 10 two-bedroom units, one of which is
occupied by Mr. Marthinsson. The rest of the units are rented within the city's price
buidelines; the applicant has agreed to deed restrict 9 units within the city's guidelines.
The engineering comments are to have a resubmission of the improvement survey; agree to
enter into a sidewalk, curb and gutter improvement district, if one is formed; and install
a new water meter and remote meter reading register. The attorney has commented these units
should be restricted to six month rentals. Councilman Behrendt questioned why the rental
units were only restricted for 5 years; why not 50 years. Vann explained that under the
condominiumization section, it only asks for 5 years. The housing director has recommended
5 years restrictions at current rental rates with an annual adjustment.
Councilman Isaac moved to approve the applicant's request for subdivision exception for
Nostdahl-Marthinsson with the following conditions; (1) applicant comply with the engineer-
lng comments outlined above and detailed in their memeorandum dated December l, 1980; (2)
applicant complies with the notice and option provision and six-month minimum lease restric-
tion of Section 20-22; (3) imposition of a five-year rental restriction on the building's
nine rental apartments, said restriction to be based upon the current rental rates with
annual cost of living updates as established by the City's housing guidelines resolution;
seconded by Councilman Van Ness. All in favor, motion carried.
SUBDIVISION EXCEPTION - Oliver-Carr
~lan Richman, planning office, told Council this is a proposed lot split in the R-6 residen.
zone on Smuggler street. The proposal is to slit off three lots, which are undeveloped,
from 3 lots which have a condominiumized duplex on it. If Council approves this, the
applicant would have the right to construct a single family dwelling outside the GMP.
Richman told Council that exception to GMP review would be due to the original lot having a
3038
Regular Meeting Aspen City Council January 26, 1981
pre-existing dwelling and as a result of no more than two lots being created by this
subdivision. The engineering department requested a revised plat reflecting the change
in the common elements of the existing condominium project. The attorney and housing
director had no comments. The P & Z recommended approval on January 6, 1981.
Councilman Van Ness moved to except the Oliver,Carr subdivision from full compliance with
the subdivision regulations for purposes of condominiumization subject to the following
conditions; the applicant's submission of a revised plt to the engineering department
reflecting the deletion of lots K, L and M from the common elements of the existing
condominium project. The revised plat should be submitted to the engineering following
final approval of this application by city council; seconded by Councilman Behrendt.
Councilman Behrendt brought up the sidewalk, curb and gutter improvement district and aske(
why is was not a condition of this application. Richman said it could be added,
Councilman Van Ness amended~his m~tion to add the applicant must agree~to enter into a
sidewalk improvement district, when one is formed; seconded by Councilman Behrendt. All
in favor, motion carried.
SUBDIVISION~EXCEPTION - Coachlight Chalet (Lodge condominiumization and reconstruction)
Alan Richman, planning office told Council this lodge is located on 12,000 square feet
and the applicant is requesting subdivision exception and condominiumization of a new lodg~
to be rebuilt. They propose 11 studio units, one 3-bedroom and two employee housing units
The applicant is requesting only one unit at this time because P & Z did not approve the
second unit. This falls under Section 20-23; they will not increase the number of units.
The applicant is meeting the intent of Section 20,23. P & Z had some concern about the
lobby not being able to provide breakfast and informational services to what had been
provided. The engineering department reviewed the condominium map and found it to be
adequate; they suggested the encroachment issue should be clarified. The attorney stated
the application meets the intent of Section 20-23; however, the applicant should designate
that services are contracted on a twenty-four hour basis. The housing director requests
the employee units be under group ownership of the condominium association. Richman
told Council the planning office recommendation contained four conditions, which have been
met by the applicant since P & Z. The fifth condition of the P & Z, which was to enlarge
the lobby, the applicant has met this also.
Councilman Behrendt moved to except the Coachling Chalet from full compliance with the
subdivision regulations for purposes of lodge condominiumization the number of employee
units subject to P & Z approval, otherwise there will be two pillows; seconded by Council-
man Isaac. All in favor, motion carried.
CONSENT AGENDA
Ordinance 950, Series of 1980, was dealt with earlier; Ordinance 94, and liquor license
renewal for the Arya were requested to be tabled until February 9th. Confirmation of
Audit Firm was the only item left on the consent agenda.
Councilman Van Ness moved to. approve the consent agenda; seconded by Councilman Behrendt.
All in favor, motion carried.
Councilman Van Ness moved to table Ordinance 94, Series of 1981, and Arya liquor license
renewal to February 9; seconded by Councilman Behrendt. All in favor, motion carried.
Councilman Van Ness moved to adjourn at 10:10 p.m.; seconded by Councilman Isaac. All in
favor, motion carried.
Ka~hr~n S~/Koch, City Clerk