HomeMy WebLinkAboutcoa.lu.ex.101 W Main St-Molly Gibson Lodge.1979\O�AIN - 1�O -� - C) \
Molly Gibson Lodge
Lots O,P&Q, Block
59 Aspen Townsite 7
JNO
.A� : � : • `Yl84>
/-`\LLLY
rour;p rzee�At2 W/ ALUM
//roes) '5 75'09' 1/" E `10.0Z L,-,r , —. ,
L..OT 'O" L-D7 'P LoT "R,'
I
m I
m N
- � NO, FL FL OYERtiHNC�
i
WO 5TORY WOOD 12AME DUILDINCy// , N
5l0.2 �
wroD DF-Clc.
Z D 3'
.. PLANTE2� PLa1.iTEIL
n
(R 4-Z'
—
c
SWIMMING POOL
R
5'
i
'RON FEf KE
�1
�-PAILR0-.D 7iE GRIIII,O �N6
Nor?K�I-, --
ALPINE SURVEYS
P.O. BOX 1730
ASPEN, COLORADO 81611
303 ° 925.2688
X
I
5URVEYED , �, 13 77 C5.
D(-HAFTED 7 - 2 M PQ
r�vl5lcl��
5AI615 OF 6EAR1NC-lam: FWND IONUMEHT5
AS 'SH WN-
MAP PizFPARF.P 6Y
ALPINE SURVEYS
PGA eox 1730
ASPEN COLORAPO
9�5 ZCv56
5Ul?WEYW'5 CMTIFICATS
I, JHMES F RE:EIZ, HERMY CERTIFY
TI" 7 T1t15 MAP ACC.L1RPtTELY DEVICT,i
A 5L)IZVI;Y MADE UNDR2 MY 5UPF-R-
VI510N GN )UNE 15, Ig7cl , OF LDT5
" Q.. DLOCK -c9l , CfTY OF
ASff-f4, COL(5IZA O. THE- TWO
�v Ch2( WCCV PRAMS 50ILDIW-�
WAS FOUND TO SE LOCATTED ENTIRE-
LY WITHIN'' THE E)OUNPARY LINES
Cr -RiF- A50VE rT-5CP-J5ED STY
1} LOCATION MCI DIMENSIONS
GP ALL PUILDINOS, NPROVEMFl-ATS
EA�IENT5 RiGHT5-OF-WAY IN EVI
DENCE OR KNOWN TO ME AND Ef4-
CKOA HMENT5 51( 01;;� 0H THBII�£
F REM1` ARE ArLL*ATELY 5l-IOWN.
�' Ef) F KE:)E32
L.S 'I104
ALPINE SURVEYS
ULY 197q
TITLE IMi'KUYC.Mt.IVI �UKV1=Y
LCfT'5 O, P, Q
MOCK 59
CITY OF ASPEN, COLORAPO
wu t-".: 1-r I i ::>
CLIENT : JONE5
FOUND gk=EA1Z W/ALvM.
rAP 1I ",
7-
rn m
k-47'
L
W,' F'L^
�Ctf' _• °�IR4�
ScA.,.vuc ? Esc 'f- o--o4
a
y -7F:--nor I10 F anni
Pe&NZ "/ ALUM
c"J' / r / Z5711 )
V Y.
0-1 "j\10
I �
I
I
I
NUJ. FL. OVE2rWNCTi/
ROOF UVEIC}1/JYCy __.-_
- -_� w000 DECK.
PLANTEK FL^t TEiL
�,.-AwTEF
KON E
��-K----"lam
F%'.ILRC1et� rrE c2r?-DrN� � � ��
n r/ v-r r r w ry yr
r�0rlK
ALPINE SURVEYS
P.O. BOX 1730
ASPEN, COLORADO 81611
303 ° 925.2688
J
3
11)
DRAFTED: ' 7 rJ�
O 5' 10' 20, 30'
SCALE 1 ° - b'
5AZI15 GF POUND HONUMENT5
MAP YREPAKPP 6Y'
ALPINE SURVEYS
Pa OOX 1730
ASPEN GOLORAPO
9Z5 2Co 8P+
5UWEYOWZ p CERTIFICATE
I, J/1ME5 F REt)F—rZ, HERE6Y t--Zr IFY
7f1A7 THH5 KAPACWF:f1TELY PWICTS
A 5LJIZVEY MAM UNDID MY SUPOR
VI510N GN JUNF- 13 , Ic17-1, OF Lf7T5
"O" "7" E G7. 6LOCK- 91 CFTY OP
ASPEN, COL012A1o, TttE TWO
J C.'IZY WOOF FRAME 6U1 L D I fl�
WAS FOUND TO SE LCX.A-TED P-471RE.-
LY WITHIN THE 60UNDARY LINES
Cr TI.1E A50VE PF-tCP-15EP a ROPCF-TY
l-e LOCATION ANIP C�IMENSICkIS
CF ALL. 13UILVIN65, !MPR0VE'ErAT51
E,Alj�-,VMENT5, P.SGHT5-0E-WAY IN EVI-
DE.NCE OR KHOMATO ME AND Era-
cRO�HMENTS 2W Or" CAI TH85£.
�'t2EMt�E 5 Arv- ACLL*ATELY 51-IOWP1.
rL) F C�
L.S. �I184
ALPINE SUtZvEYS
:ULY 197�1
-rr-r' c. Iin^CY,„"r r`.fG'LIT-)ItKw;�Y
LOJT'5 O, 'P, Q
MOCK 59
CITY OF ASPEN, COLORAPO
,J)C3 NO. : 7"? ?5
CLIENT : JONE5
� CITY OF ASPEN
MEMO FROM RICHARD GRICE
� LZU-�
S9v�
l
QSPEN/PITKIN PLANNING OFFICE •
130 South Galena Street
Aspen, Colorado 81611
LAND USE APPLICATION FEES
County
00100 —
63711
09009 — 00000
Subdivision/PUD
63712
Special Review
63713
P&Z Review Only
63714
Detailed Review
63715
Final Plat
63716
Special Approval
637117
Specially Assigned
City
00100 —
63721
09009 — 00000
Conceptual Application
63722
Preliminary Application
63723
Final Application
63724
Subdivision
Exemption
63725
Rezoning
63726
Conditional Use
PLANNING OFFICE
SALES
00100 —
63061
09009 — 00000
County Land Use Sales
63062
GMP Sales
63063
Almanac Sales
Copy Fees
Other
Name: The Moll" "Ji Son 10 Project:
120 West Hopkins
Address: "•7pen, CO 81611 Phone:�'r
Check No. 71r�r,"
Receipt No. P
Date:
,e
0
9
MEMORANDUM
TO: t-Ron Stock, City Attorney
Dave Ellis, City Engineer
FROM: Richard Grice, Planning Office
RE: Molly Gibson Lodge Subdivision Exemption
DATE: August 8, 1979
Attached please find application for subdivision exemption filed by the
Molly Gibson Lodge. This item is scheduled to come before the Aspen Planning and
Zoning Commission on Tuesday, September 18, 1979. Therefore, may I have your
written comments no later than Monday, September 10, 1979. Thank you.
APPLICATION FOR EXEMPTION
FROM SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS
Request is hereby made on behalf of David F. Jones
(hereinafter referred to as "APPLICANT"), under Section 20-19(b)
of the Subdivision Regulations, for the City of Aspen, State
of Colorado, for an exemption from the definition of the term
"Subdivision" with respect forthe following real property:
Lots O, P & Q, Block 59, City and
Townsite of Aspen, County of Pitkin,
State of Colorado.
It is submitted,that the request to the exemption is appropriate.
This application involves the condominiumization of an existing
lodge facility known as the Molly Gibson Lodge. If an
exemption is granted, the owners of the property will have
a common interest in the land, recreational facilities, swimming
pool, parking area, utility rooms, laundry rooms, office and
lounge area and there will be a condominium declaration and
maintenance agreement auplicable to the property which will
not in any way increase the land use impact of the property.
No loss of tourist short term lodging facilities will result
by reason of the exemption. A restriction will be provided
in the declaration and covenants creating the condominium which
will prohibit any residential or long term occupancy of any
unit by the owner of said unit and will prohibit any activities
which are inconsistent with the use of the lodae for tourist
accommodations. No new kitchen facilities will be installed
in any unit and a unified management organization for the
lodge will be required.
An exemption in this case will not conflict with
the intent and purpose of. the Subdivision Regulations which
are directed to assist the orderly, efficient, and integrated
development of the City of Aspen, to insure the proper
distribution of population, to coordinate the need for public
services, and to encourage well planned subdivision. A strict
ri
0
i
interpretation and compliance with the Subdivision Regulations
in this case would deprive the Applicant of the reasonable
use of his land.
The granting of this application will not under-
mine the intent of the Subdivision Regulations as it is
clearly within the area intended for exemption under Section
20-19. The building is already in existence, and there
will be no change in density. The building contains 22
individual lodge rooms including a manager's unit which
is utilized as full time housing for the on -site lodge
manager. This use exists as a legal nonconforming use in
the R-6 zone district. Many like uses exist in the R-6 zone
and the degree of incompatibility with the neighborhood is
minimal or nonexistent. The condominiumization of this
use will not create a new nonconforming use nor increase
the degree of nonconformity. No structural changes are
contemplated and no change in use is contemplated nor will
be permitted under the condominium declarations. The use
will not change from its present use classification "accommo-
dations".
There are no existing residential tenants or leases
applicable to the lodge unit and thereYore provision for low
or moderate income housing as described in the Municipal Code
for the City of Aspen is not applicable to this application.
The Applicant would appreciate your consideration
of this application at your next regular meeting.
Dated: July 26, 1979
SACHS, KLEIN & SEIGLE
By C
Herbert S. Klein
Attorneys for. David F. Jones
601 East Main Street
Aspen, Colorado 81611
(303)925-6813
- 2 -
MEMORANDUM
TO: Ron Stock, City Attorney
Dave Ellis, City Engineer
FROM: Richard Grice, Planning Office
RE: Molly Gibson Lodge Subdivision Exemption
DATE: August 8, 1979
Attached please find application for subdivision exemption filed by the
Molly Gibson Lodge. This item is scheduled to come before the Aspen Planning and
Zoning Commission on Tuesday, September 18, 1979. Therefore, may I have your
written comments no later than Monday, September 10, 1979. Thank you.
•
l
CITY OF ASPEN
130 south galena �treet
aspen, colorad-181611
October 23, 1979
Jeffrey H. Sachs, Esq.
Sachs, Klein & Seigle
601 East Main Street
Aspen, Colorado 81611
Re: Molly Gibson Lodge
Dear Jeff:
I am in receipt of your letter dated this date to the Mayor and
members of the City Council of the City of Aspen. You seem to
make the assumption that the City Council made its determination
to deny the condominiumization of the Molly Gibson Lodge upon the
mere fact that it was a non -conforming use. You are partially
correct. The Council's decision was based in minor part upon my
interpretation of Section 20-9 of the Municipal Code of the City
of Aspen. However, the motion as made included a specific finding
by the Council that in their judgment -this division of property
was within the intents and purposes of Chapter 20-referring
directly to Section 20-2 wherein it is stated that one of the
intents and purposes of the subdivision regulations is to "promote
the health, safety and general welfare of the residents of and the
visitors to the City of Aspen".
I have been aware of one or two cases wherein a non -conforming use
has been subdivided. So too has the Planning Office had such
knowledge. However, we did not indicate in any way, shape or form
to the Council that non-confomring uses had not been condomin-
iumized in the past. we stated only that it was my legal opinion
that Section 20-9 precluded such condominiumization. The legal
opinions of previous City Attorneys are not binding upon me or
this office. Those opinions are considered by me and are influen-
tial in determining the effect of a particular section of the
code, but if they have been incorrect, I am not bound to continue
to misinform or to misapply the law because of their previous
error, if such error has been made.
I take objection to the accusations that I or the Planning Office
have provided incomplete legal information to the City Council.
The fact that another non -conforming use has been condominiumized
}, Ate.�. iR.". I. -t �, -., ,,.T,_ ..ma's - �o -�{
. 1. .�s�.�".. 'i _ �. ��..1"' ..F r,.. _ �. .. �� • '. "''"< _�
0
0
•
Jeffrey H. Sachs, Esq.
October 24, 1979
Page 2
is not a legal fact nor can I agree with you that it is "critical
information" or that it "would have definitely affected the judg-
ment of some of the Council members". I do not consider such
information relevant much less critical. Your application is for
the condominiumization of a lodge. No previous lodge has been
condominiumized which has been either a non -conforming use or a
non -conforming structure. Further, I am unaware of any noncon-
forming structure which has been condominiumized since I have made
my interpretation of Section 20-9. In other words, when you argue
about fairness, it would be unfair to approve your condominium-
ization when we have steadfastly maintained that others could not
so condominiumize.
Since the question of whether or not a non -conforming use may be
subdivided was only one element of the Council's decision, and a
minor element at that, their action has sufficient justification
to be upheld even if we would assume for the sake of argument that
I am incorrect in my interpretation of Section 20-9. However,
because it is my duty and function, I will advise my client that
if one of the three members voting on the prevailing side believes
that this additional information would have affected him in any
way thus creating the possibility that he would have voted in a
different manner he has the right to move to reconsider the deci-
sion at the next regular Council meeting.
Yours very tru y,
" Pnal_dW. Stock
City Attorney
RWS:mc
cc: City Council
Karen Smith
I
r
3
•
CJ
PLANNING AND ZONING MEETING
September 18, 1979
Verbatim of Mollie Gibson Lodge
Request for Condominiumization
Olaf Hedstrom - Mollie Gibson Lodge Subdivision Exemption
Karen Smith - I am interested in having Ron partcipate because
the recommendation to you on this subdivision exemption of the
Mollie Gibson Lodge for the purpose of condominiumizing determines
on a legal interpretation and is different from your deliberation
on the Tipple Lodge in that this one involves a non -conforming
use, in other words it is in an R-6 zone district and is not a
permitted use in that district. The Code in Section 20-9(c)
reads that "no subdivision shall be approved which includes
elements not in conformance with the provisions of any applicable
zoning ordinance or other ordinances of the City of Aspen or
law or regulation with the State of Colorado." The interpre-
tation here is that the use is not in conformance with the Zoning
Code of the City of Aspen; and Ron recommends that that prohibits
the conversion from the circumstance. We would -- Richard's. -memo
also notes for your information that Ron is working on an amend-
ment that would exempt from the GMP the conversion property from
the non -conforming use that may have some impact here at which
time we might reconsider a.n application of a conversion of that
kind take up the elements of your review that consider for the
Tipple Lodge.
Herb Klein - My name is Herb Klein, I am an attorney for David
Jones who is here on behalf of the Mollie Gibson. We request
that the commission consider the merits of the application not-
withstanding the City Attorney's recommendation concerning non-
conforming use. I have, what I believe, would be very good legal
arguments which indicate that, his opinion is incorrect and since
he is not here to refute them, I do not know that it would be
fair to go into them except there is one point that I think that
even lay people, without legal expertise can deal with, and that
is that the prohibition that he cites is that "no subdivision can
take place with your elements not in conformance with the zoning
for the City Ordinances, best position statements on non -conforming
uses have legal rights to exist and to operate and change their
use based upon the non -conforming use section of the Code. There-
fore, they exist lawfully, and in the Court, with the zoning
ordinances in the City, to be quite frank with you last Wednesday
I got a call from Richard Grice who said that we were going to
be bumped from the agenda tonite until October 23 because Ron
Stock was too busy and didn't have an opportunity to give a review
for this proposal. I told him that I thought we had been in the
process for several months and that that would be grossly unfair
to delay us by another month and to please explain this to Ron and
ask him to come up with some memorandum, and even if it was a bad
one -- and I guess I got what I asked for. The point is that, as
you know, if there is some purely technical legal obstacle which
I don't believe there is; but let's say that there is. But you
feel that the merits of the application are good enough to proceed
with them, then we can work that out and we are prepared to make
what we think are persuasive arguments, provide you with some
new information that you didn't have before you considered the
Tipple Inn and we would like you to consider it on the merits so
Mr. Chairman, if you would consider that, I would like Mr. Jones
to proceed and help reveal some of the real problems that are
bascially community which we think our proposal for condominiumizing
lodges could alleve you.
commission
Olaf Hedstrom - I think the / would like to hear your client's
comments.
David Jones - First of all I would like to identify myself
because when I first came to Aspen I just wanted to retire
from the hassle and bustle of the big city which was Detroit.
I was an industrial contractor at that time for 15 years and
I was really getting weary of all that big city contracting
operations so I came to Aspen and bought a little humble lodge
with 20 units pretty plain I really didn't have any kind of
image and I said "boy I want to keep a low key" and I just
don't want too much "razzle-dazzle" and unfortunately I kept
on a very low profile and very few people know me. Charlie
knows me from one point of view, Roger knows me from calling
him with emergencies, you're coming up pretty soon, Roger.
Roger Hunt - Gee thanks
David Jones - and the rest of you really don't know me. I
own the Mollie Gibson Lodge 100%, we have 20 units, I like to
think that it is the very essence of a Lodge, of an Inn, I am
not a motel, I am not a hotel, I run a fine place, I have
fins guests, I'm proud to have them at my place, they usually
go away feeling very good, very comfortable, having had an
unusual experience. On my letterhead, I say something to the
effect - come join us for your Aspen experience, it's real
it's not kicks, it's not public relations stuff. I mean it,
that's why I came here was to enjoy. Well, we have some ( ? )
knowlege on the Mollie Gibson Lodge, but I own a place that you
may have seen in some ads in the newspaper that simply say
Aspen Ski Lodge and showing aspen grove trees with a nice border
and that's about all it says. It happens to be in the old Smuggler
I don't know if any of you have ever stayed there or had friends
stay there at the old Smuggler Lodge, it's just a delightful
place. I know what it's like, I think it's a (Flavella spanish
term?) in South America, we call them Ghettos, it was a tragic
place, one down at the hills uncared for through a process of
years of abuse and neglect, both on the guests part and on the
ownership; well my partners and I have elected to create a brand
new entity of the ( ? ) and call it the Aspen Ski Lodge. We put
the word Aspen on it because we think it is going to be repre-
sentative of the quality that should be and can be Aspen. I am
picking my words very carefully. I can assure you that it will
be the finest Lodge Aspen has seen, and probably will ever see
because economically, I don't think it can be done again. We
took a terrible place and are creating a fine place. However,
in order to do that, it costs money. I am going to discuss with
you economics and nobody likes to hear economics, but I have some
hard facts for you to consider. It costs money to live, you have
to buy groceries, you have to put gasoline in your car and it
doesn't cost $.39 a gallon anymore. You have to buy clothes,
levies don't cost $9.95 anymore and the same way with business.
Business costs are becoming fabulous. I just wrote a statement
that will ( ? ) cost 13% inflation. I don't know if you people
are upset about that, but I am concerned. I am starting to
read the Wall Street Journal again. I am trying to get a pulse
on what's happening. That's who I am with respect to my vested
interest. I am a lodge owner and I am a lodge manager, I am
building, I am a long time guest of Aspen, I have selected Aspen
for my home. I was talking with Charles Isreal whom most of you
know and we both were talking about where would we live if we didn't
live in Aspen and the answer is there is no other place for us to
live. So I am here for a long time. I am not a real estate developer
I'm just a businessman who happens to own two lodges and who has
selected Aspen because I am fond of the climate, I am fond of the
people, I am fond of the total environment. I have also participated
in this town. I have given up my time when I couldn't give of it,
I took it away from my family to give to the town, I am a former
past president of the Aspen Lodging Association, also a member of
the condominium manager's association executive board by their
invitation, also an executive member of the executive board of the
Chamber of Commerce; and several ad hoc committees with respect
to the community. I have participated, I have given. I tend to
be a little outspoken, I will tell you what to do. That's what
I am doing tonite. I think the problem we are dealing with right
-3-
now doesn't have anything to do with condominiumization of the
Mollie Gibson Lodge, the condominiumization of the Tipple Inn,
it has to do with the viability of Aspen as a communicty.
Aspen's community is slipping. You may have read about it in
the newspaper, let's not let Sun Valley happen here. Let's not
happen vailification and if you pardon the expression Californication,
you're working on it. We have problems. The viability, the economic
viability of a small lodge doesn't happen anymore. I can't make
it, I run the business, I think I run the best place in town. I
can't make enough money to do it. I have 8 rooms that I would
dearly love to do. I would like to take my lodge, which is lovely,
but needs upgrading, I would like to upgrade that. I can't do
it. The parking area, I would really like to do something of that.
I am not proud of the shortcomings of my lodge and I am speaking
for lodge owners in general and I have spoken with them and tell
them what I am doing and why I am doing it. I cannot economically
make enough progress to do what has to be done, that is to make
our lodges (i.e. my lodge or any other lodge you want to mention)
to bring it up to first class. We have declining lodges, they are
terrible in tragic shape and who is doing something about it. I
did something to mine for $200,000.00 of the Mollie Gibson and
you know what? I have 8 rooms yet to go. I spent one million two
hundred thousand dollars on the Aspen Ski Lodge, I haven't opened
it. $85.00 per night; $150.00 to $125.00 a night; $150.00 per night
because don't like the ( ? ) . The finest lodge in town, however,
if we didn't have certain situations that existed with respect to
zoning, I am not pushing the epicacy of the building pros, I agree
with them wholehartedly. But when I tell you it cost me $200,000
to $250,000.00 of more money just to build the Aspen Ski Lodge,
Aspen's finest, I'm telling you we are spending more money than
we have to. Who pays for it. I either pay for it by loosing money
or the guest pays more money $200,001 extra on the building; because
of the building, because it is so important.
David Jones - Are you familiar with the Zoning Code with respect
to the Aspen Ski Lodge?
David Jones - No, what building requirements
David Jones - I'm not really sure we should even get into that
because that is a whole argument into itself and I think Karen
would agree with me
Karen -- absolutely true
David Jones I mean we have just been through it, Karen and Ron
Stock
Roger Hunt - Well let's get back to the Aspen Ski Lodge and get
to the main point here then
David Jones - Well, do you know the point I'm discussing?
Roger Hunt - well, I'm trying to, but you allude to one thing -
it cost you $200,000.00 extra, yet you are not willing to discuss
it at this point.
David Jones - Roger, we are talking economic liability
Roger Hunt - O.K., but we asked you a question --what was the
$200,000.00 you are talking about
Olaf Hedstrom - Let's get back to the Mollie Gibson and the
justifications that you have for -- I said you could give us
your information that would convince us the merits of your request.
While we have all this background, let's get down to the substance.
0 - 4 - 0
David Jones - How many agree that the lodges in town are in
poor repair. O.K. we have at least one concurrence there.
That's what we are dealing with, they are either in poor repair
or in need of upgrading in some
Olaf Hedstrom - we have that, let's get to the Mollie Gibson
case.
David Jones - Would you agree that the economic viability of the
small lodges is no longer any kind of strong point they cannot
make it as a lodge? Do you agree?
Olaf Hedstrom - whether we agree with that, we will accept that.
David Jones - O.K., that's fine
Olaf Hedstrom - on the premises for what say
David Jones - If I am to be granted condominiumization of the
Mollie Gibson Lodge, I intend to have every room upgraded to the
best quality that I already have that's well regarded in town
as the best, my entire lodge will be upgraded and all I will
have done is change ownership, I will not have changed use one.
Consider what I am saying. The only change I am asking you is
to allow me to change my style of ownership. I am not changing
a thing. I am not changing coffee cake, I'm not changing my ice
machine, I'm not changing my landscaping, I'm changing nothing
but ownership. We are talking condominiumization as a form of
ownership. We are not talking about building kitchens, kitchens
my friends are a pain. Besides, our guests don't come into
Aspen to cook. Many of my guests are interested in buying a
condominium at the Mollie Gibson Lodge which consists of a ( ? )
with a queen bed, a refrigerator, and a fine view, and our
continental breakfast, and whatever nice things we do. That is
what condominiumization of the Mollie Gibson means a change of
ownership.
Herb Klein - I would like to make a point, that condominiumization
can be a very effective financing tool. Right now the only way
a lodge like the Mollie Gibson can raise capital to make these
kinds of improvements is to raise the raise ( ?) to the tourist.
The problem that the town has is that when tourists are paying
higher rates than they have to pay elsewhere and they are getting
poorer accommodations for their dollars, eventually, the community
itself is going to suffer. If condominiumization is allowed,
David can go to the bank and collateralize his mortgage to make
those improvements and only result in a very incremental increase
in rates to cover that amortized mortgage. The way it is right
now, they look to David at his personal resources and he is
pretty well over -extended at this point, so the improvements can't
be make. It's the same for every other small lodge in town. Any-
one who has bought a lodge in the last 5 to 7 years has a very
high basis in that property and there is no way -- they paid
probably 80% of the purchase price just for the land with a very
poor physical plan and there is absolutely no way that they can
raise additional money under conventional finance and these people
are already extended, so what do they do, they pass it on to
the tourist and eventually the town suffers. Our community has
a 10 million dollar budget coming up this year. We have got to
pay the piper, we have to make sure that the tourist dollars
are there to support the sales tax revenues, we have to make sure
that the property taxes ( ? ), there has been very strong con-
sideration given to real estate transfer tax, the condominiumization
of lodges to result in additional revenues to the town on that
score.
Olaf Hedstrom - O.K., any questions for either Mr. Jones or Mr.
Klein?
Roger Hunt - I certainly have some. O.K., there are a couple of
concerns I have, you alluded to one of them here. The rooms are
going to have a refrigerator, how are you going to prevent hot
plates in those rooms converting into dwelling units and how do
you prevent an owner who ownes a unit in that whole complex from
• •
5 -
doing what he wants to do with that unit?
Herb Klein - There were some documents submitted on the record
from the Tipple Application from local examples from the Stone -
bridge, Crestwood, I'm not sure if there was one or not from
the Pokolodie. But it added probably 160 units that were
represented by those documents there were 2 units that were held
off the market by the owners; and I know if Richard Grice was here,
he would say if it was 1, it was 1 too many. But the town is
loosing more by not allowing these lodges to upgrade than they
could ever possibly use from some "fat cat" owner who decides he
wants his little nest in Aspen and he doesn't want anyone else
to use it. If that happens 1% of the time, the statistics indicate
that it is less than 1% of the time, it seems that on balance it
is an acceptable loss compared to what the town is basing otherwise.
Our position is we really don't have a viable alternative. We
are stuck between the proverbial rock in a hard place. Roger,
there is no way that you could nail somebody down to promise
forever not to do or to do something. You throw them in jail
if he does it, but that's too late, he has already done it. That
is the only way the system can work. There is no such thing as
prohibitions that occur before the violation. All prohibitions
occur after a violation and the damage is usually done, so we
have to look at it from a position of what alternatives are there.
Roger Hunt - O.K., we come down though to -- you indicated that
unified management organization for lodge would be required. I
would like to see it on paper and how you are going to do it,
because the Tipple Lodge couldn't come up with a gosh darn piece
of paper that would with writing on the paper that would satisfy
me that that lodge would be operated as an entity, it would have
the amenities of the lodge and that all the units in the lodge
would be rented by one organization.
Herb Klein - There is a distinction between the Tipple and the
Mollie Gibson on that. The Tipple, I understand was converted
from the residential duplex. It didn't have the lodge amenities
to begin with. The Mollie Gibson is built as a lodge and can
only be operated as a lodge. We would have no problem with
restrictive covenants in the condominium declarations that require
unified room management. If that was breached, every other
owner and the rental management entity, as well as the city if
we made it part and parcel of an agreement on condominiumization.
All those individuals and entities could enforce it.
Roger Hunt - O.K., well, if that's the case, I don't have that
much of a problem with it. But I haven't seen the writing on
paper yet that can accomplish it and the lawyer for the Tipple
Lodge said, "to accomplish such a thing means that we have to
go through an additional $50,000.00 for S.E.C. approval" or some
crazy thing like that. That was their rationale. Is that the
case, or is that not the case?
Herb Klein - I think that if there are other governmental regulations
that we have to deal with, that is our problem and I don't propose
to make that your problem. I think you have to deal with
Roger Hunt - I don't have a problem with how many owners, I have
a problem with how it is operated.
Herb Klein - Right, well we can deal with that. Whatever it takes
we can.
David Jones - It can only be operated as a lodge
Roger Hunt - Those are nice words, I agree with that, that's great.
- 6 -
Olaf Hedstrom - That isn't so. I must take issue of that. I
mean if the owners decide not to operate it as a lodge, you don't
have to. I mean it's built for a lodge and functions and ideally
it is a lodge, but that doesn't mean that they can't decide to
accept the loss of operating as a lodge and just cease operating
as a lodge. They can do that if they want to.
Herb Klein - I have advised David that under the current zoning
he could go and tear it down and build a beautiful luxury duplex
and sell the thing for 1/2 a million to one million dollars more
than he could sell the Mollie Gibson Lodge right now.
Olaf Hedstrom - Lee, do you have some questions?
Lee Pardee - No, I think the Mollie Gibson is what David Jones
is and if he were not there, and if it were condominiumized, it
becomes very similar to a Tipple situation where there is not
the incentive to have the services that the lodges provide. They
have the incentive now because he ownes it out right and he wants
to make a profit out of it. Owner's, I think, have less of an
ability particularly absentee owners to control such services
and I don't think they end up with the kind of service that the
lodges have, witness the condominiums, you don't find it.
Olaf Hedstrom - No law or written agreements and statements and
restrictions can take the place of the interest of the individual
owner when it comes to what you accomplished. I think you are
right, Lee, and it is a good thing ( ? ? ) again the owner.
David Jones - I also want to mention that I must know 20 people
who don't rent units and it is happening more and more as units
become more attractive and better for people who can afford the
$200,000 to $300,000 units aren't concerned about the modest incomes
they get at the risk of ruining their furnishing. I think that
as Aspen becomes more affluent, we become much more -- the loss
of rental units, short term units become a much bigger problem
and by more condominiums not being rented there is short term
pressures loss of short term units. We are about to loose the
Mollie Gibson for short term units. I cannot afford to do it
any longer in its current configuration and not financially --
you know this is interesting because the arguments incurred have
mostly said that since the conditional use would not allow
to improve and that is the reason the lodges are not improved.
Roger Hunt - you mean non -conforming
David Jones - non -conforming, they are not able to improve and
maintain the properties. Now that we are making unavailable,
it is becoming much more of a question of well, even if we can
legally improve our properties, we can't financially make it.
That argument is all of a sudden new that we are allowing the
alternative
Herb Klein - economic run a way (?) if that's the problem
David Jones - Tell me why we have no lodges being built in the
other ski areas? They are building condominiums. It is not a
viable entity any longer. They ask for help, are you going to
give the help now? It's too late
Olaf Hedstrom - Excuse me, Welton, do you have some comments
or questions?
Welton Anderson - Very sympathetic to your financial position.
I really haven't changed any since the Tipple Lodge as far as
my attitude about condominiumization and what the effect of
subdividing a small subdivided parcel of whatever in this town
so everyone can own a piece in Aspen. What that effect will
ultimately have?
• •
7 -
David Jones - Can I answer that, you hit on a very sensative point
that has not been brought up. We are discussing here and what
you said about the Tipple Lodge is that condominiumization would
be detrimental to the tourist housing supply in that it opens
a possibility for reducing that supply. I would like to say that
positively speaking, condominiuization of the Mollie Gibson Lodge
brings in 20 owners who will now, when you are racked into Aspen
as guests, they then treat a momentum a snowball going down getting
momentum, spinning off referrals of friends, relatives, acquiantances.
? - We are full
David Jones - We aren't full, we aren't full, I was 88% marked,
I was 88% in February and check the statistics in town and if you
are pleased with that, then I am shocked. We aren't full, we
are not.
Olaf Hedstrom - That is beside the point, continue
Welton Anderson - I can see the benefits as far as upgrading and
the problem that we are facing is that here is one application
where it would really be very good probably you, for the town, and
everybody, if you were allowed to do it. But the people that
were at all the Tipple Lodge meetings that were there as representa-
tives of people that own other lodges to see what the feeling of
the board was. It's like a dam about ready to break. It can
happen to every lodge in town, everybody has their own ,set of
circumstances. I think though what we are concerned with what
we are concerned with over there and here too, is the breaking
down or the lack of any coherent to break something in 20 different
owners. This unit is only occupied 2 weeks a year because most
keep it off the market -- this unit is this way, this unit is that
way, there is no management, there is no coffee cake in the morning,
bus service or shuttle service from the lodge to the airport go
back and forth. Thought occurred to me that I would be a little
less adament against condominiumization if perhaps we could talk
about condominiumizing 1/4 of the units and you would be the owner
of the other 3/4. That would give you some real income from
selling any of those units to do the upgrading. But 3/4 of the
units still stay under 1 management and those amenities that have
always been there by virtue of doing it that way will probably stay.
Roger Hunt - That's reasonable
? - That's a good Idea (I think you said that Herb)
David Jones - That' s very reasonable or you might carry it a little
bit more logically that we could have a programmed release of
condominium units over a period of 4 or 5 years. That may be the
way it would have to be done anyway.
Olaf Hedstrom - Joan, I haven't heard from you
Joan Klar - And you will -- I had a question in if David, if you
were to redesign the percentage with the funds under the non-
conforming use section, I believe it is 10% I believe it can be
used to up -grade a non -conforming use facility-- if that were to
be changed somehow, if that part of the requirement of the Code,
would that help your particular situation out.
David Jones - It would have helped me four or three years ago,
but now the economic situation is substantially changed that is
no longer econically plausable to do that. In order to do the
improvements, if you allow me to do any improvements I want, more
than 10% I'm doing 130% improvements now, at the Smuggler, I
didn't intend to, but I sure got sucked into that baby and we
keep putting more money into it.
Olaf Hedstrom - Excuse me, Roger, just for a moment, should we
hear him now, I'm sorry to interrupt,we have another meeting
David Jones - Well no I can say ( ? ) meeting
? - Our codes are set up in such a way that we created a down-
ward spiral. We made it impossible for you to up -grade your
lodging as a result of those codes we also
? Someone whispering in the background (those were my arguments
two years ago.)
? continued - set up the system so you that you couldn't make
money. As you can't improve the lodging, you can't compete.
That's what we did to you. NOw we are and over this winter, we
will find a method to allow for those lodges which exist, which
is the Mollie Gibson to be reconstructed without limitation as
the 10%; just as the Smuggler was the first one certainly was
a varied of standard set of policy. But toward the end of that
approach, before the Board of Adjustment, you had me convinced
and I have thought with the numbers here by the Zoning Commission
that we have a majority of them convinced. There will be
proposals through this winter. I don't know, I can't tell
you if it will happen in two or four weeks, but I know that
before construction season comes next summer, we are likely to
have adopted so ( ? ? ?) into the lodges and hopefully
it will also cover Mollie Gibson which is not facing Main Street
so that you will be able to upgrade it. One of our main problems
that we had when we did a review of how Aspen was seen by Travel
Agents throughout the country when the Chamber of Commerce went
out and did their review under the central reservations systems
they have, they found that we wanted to consider to be first of
all high priced, second of all we were snobish and did not treat
the tourist well and thirdly that we had a reputation of being
high priced because the quality was so well in the housing industry.
They have brand new lodges in Vail. We weren't considered as (?)
we were considered as being second class because they have never
been upgraded and we have to change that and we have to change
the image of Aspen and we have to make it possible to lodges for
the Town.
Turned tape
Olaf Hedstrom - that introduces entirely new element that we have
never heard before, that even if they can do all the improvements
that these new regulations, revisions contemplate, they still
can't afford to do it because there is no way to make it pay off.
Herb Klein - There is another point, it says it is very difficult
to finance ----
David Jones - The upgrading, and what you say, I must admit I am
pleasantly surprised Ron that you have got such a handle on it,
you have nailed it right down to the problem we have and were are
I would love to work (?) spiral and in your absence try to describe
the falling decline of Aspen. Not too many people
Olaf Hedstrom - Let's gel to the meat of this thing here. I mean
it's all very interesting, the background and but I would like to
ask Ron now to refer to your opinion
Ron Stock - I think legally until I review my position, but my
position has always been that there is a provision of our Code
that says that we cannot condominiumize if they are a non -conforming
use basically it is more than that. That, at least, is one of the
elements I had advise here that I couldn't review before this
particular meeting and so I would retain the opinion that I always
had that ( ? ) in Aspen. The question that he has is can we logically
have such a provision in the subdivision and I said we don't any
opinions on whether it is legal for us to have that position in
that I have not done all the research necessary. But the theory of our
Code says that if new property subdivides a piece of property that
is net non -conforming use. I point out again to the Planning and
Zoning Commission that we have created 21, 22 whatever the old
book was in that the GMP tells him that he cannot convert to
residential construction to residential units, despite the fact
•
9 -
that that is what the zoning code requires you to do, or is
pressing (?) to do by putting restrictions on reconstruction.
We have the situation where if you must construct in order to
modify from a nonconforming use to a conforming use you must
go through the GMP and get approval. That position means that
the zoning code tells him to switch over from a lodge (?) to housing
and GMP says that you can't switch over from a lodge to long-term
housing. We must seriously consider adopting an amendment to the
GMP that exempts modification from a nonconforming use to a con-
forming use to allow us to have both codes say the same thing.
Roger Hunt - the only problem with that, Ron, is that you still
loose towards beds that way. There is no pressure to do resi-
dential. What that does is give you one out (cars going by) ?
simply not appropriate from conversion to long term housing so
what that means is you destroy what you have you rebuild the
number of units you have into a different form of structure to
be long term during the process of construction. (someone coughing)
units and they go for a high price because you have to cover not
only the cost of construction, the cost of value of the land, but
you also have got to cover the cost of demolition and what you
still invested in the property so that means that any units you
build will wind up being long term but nontheless sold to secondary
owners (talking to soft)
Herb Klein - I would like the opportunity to respond to City Attorney's opinion
Olaf Hedstrom - I'm sorry that this commission will have to rely
on the advice of the City Attorney and there is no use to responding
because that is his advice. If you have some need for discussion
and intend to if you wish to ask the attorney to revise his opinion
that he has given us, we consider it or change it that is fine,
not at this time at this meeting. That is a matter for you to
take up with Ron Stock. I will entertain a motion to recommend
denial of the subdivision exemption for condominiumization of
the Mollie Gibson Lodge based upon Section 3-9(c) of the Municipal
Code which states "no subdivision shall be approved which in
(?) and conformance to its revisions of any (it sounds like he
is speaking with a mouth full of mashed potatoes)zoning ordinace
or other ordinances to the City of Aspen."
Joan Klar - I have a question for Ron. Ron, what's at the basis
for this new plan. Have you started gathering data for this or
are you working with various elements of the community. I share
a lot of David's concern in the decline of our tourist facilities
throughout the City and I think it is a fairly immediate problem
and I know we have a lot of immediate large problems on our agendas
but I was just curious as to this planning effort that you were
referring to and when it was coming on line.
Ron Stock - You received the first memorandum dated September 18,
probably this evening from Richard Grice and Karen Smith on Report
on Lodge (someone is turning their page in front of the microphone)
(?) I think the approach �� may be a logical
approach. We are going to I to you something on this within
the next few weeks. I would like to recommend some modification
of the language that they have but I like the approach that they
are taking and one of two approaches you can take -- you can
modify the nonconforming use section in your code or you create
a zone district or modify your existing zone district so that
lodges exist out there and they continue to exist. One of the
problems, the reason you may want to go with rezoning in that
area is that the argument that I hear from a lot of these owners
is that the-ewners-will in order for me to be able to go out
and redevelop my property, I have got to have a few more units
than what I have now. Well that is different than saying we want
to build a brand new lodge of 40 units on Main Street. It is
someone who comes along and says I only have 12 and I can't
economically have the staff to run that office for 24 hours a
day that is necessary the service that is being demanded from
me with the number of units I have and (?) rental rates in Aspen
what I can expect to get off those units. I happen to have 24 or
30 or whatever the number is and we have,tq,lgok at first;of all
whether they are of economical siz6` �''` Swiss Chalet has only
9 units and we have to look at some of those other lodges that
•
- 10 -
and determine -- do you want to allow them to expand or remain
the same number of units. If you want them to remain the same
number of units, you restrict your existence so only those that
are economical after they are reconstructed and then this is the
best way to go. The problem with the other approach and the
problem neither planning or I have been able to solve is how do
I turn around and tell Mollie Gibson you can have another 10
units which is what this series brings you up to the point which
are economical. Even though you have to go through the Growth
Management Plan to get approval from the Growth Management Plan
so that we still stay consistent, I would like to tell him that
he can do that, but I tell Lee that he can't go build a new
Lodge on Main Street.
Olaf Hedstrom - yes, those problems are going to be very per-
tinent when we get around to that -- thank's very much, Ron.
Is there a second?
? - Second
Olaf Hedstrom - Any discussion? All in favor? I was to call
your attention and remind you that Ron Stock and the Planning Office
is working on an amendment exempting from the GMP conversion the
property from non -conforming to a conforming use and as that proceeds
to and whatever satisfies the council, that will completely by-
pass the basis on which we ddm$+Ad this request and it would be
appropriate for submittal/ of that time. And we appreciate very
much here the merits of which were very S@fbj�ncing and would be
pertinent to be on record, if it comes/ us again after this
amendment -- yes, Roger
Roger Hunt -- I'm worried that condominiumization seems to be at
this point the only way out for these places. I know that it is
not up to the City to try to figure out financial problems like
that, but it is a problem that we are going to have to address and
readdress and is there any other type of entity that can divide
ownership without having to give someone a let's say a fee simple
room out of the whole group. In other words, either incorporating
or making a cooperative out of a lodge as opposed to condominiumization
so you can keep it a one entity operation. This is one of the major
problems with condominiumizing a lodge is that it becomes becomes
disintegrated, how do you prevent one unit owner using heaven knows
who else to rent that unit out of a whole group. Do you see the
problem? This is the problem we have with the Tipple.
Herb Klein - I represent a couple condo associations and some of
them have gone to in-house short term rental management, this is
for residential condominiums and we have been able to designate
give exclusive authority from one rental management entity
Roger Hunt - In otherwords a condominium association will hire
one and only one
Joan Klar - yes
Roger Hunt - management and rental activity for their units
Herb Klein - that's right and they sell the standards, if they
want coffee to be taken in the morning, that's in their (?)
for contract
Joan Klar - yes
David Jones - rental pool would require an SCC registration. The
one's that I have worked on, if it's voluntary by the property --
Herb Klein - if they are voluntary, so that you don't have to
short term, this is different than the lodge situation, but
if you don't have to short term than you don't run across the
SCC. In other words, if people say -- O.K. number 1 I'm going
to make the decision to short term, now what do I do? and then
they are required to use a designated rental agent, that's o.k.,
that's no problem for the SCC because they have the ability to
make the election whether or not to short term. Now the lodge
you would want to require them to short term azd there are two
ways you can do it one or the other or a combination of both.
One is that you would require that there be exclusive in-house
management and you just say you must
Roger Hunt - yes.
Herb Klein - make them available through this management entity.
That runs into problems with the SCC, but again that is not your
problem. The other is to place an owner use restriction on it.
Now if you only place an owner use restriction on it, that means
that the market forces will make that owner, if he can only use
it himself for a short time during the year for a couple of weeks,
that doesn't run into problems with the SCC and the market forces
will require him to short term rent it the rest of the time. The
only thing that doesn't nail down is the owner who doesn't want
to rent it at all.
Roger Hunt - yes.
Herb Klein - and I submit that that there are very few in that
category.
? - maybe not -- condominium would definately
Herb Klein - in a condominium -- but in a large room
? - be possible to avoid SCC restrictions to require that the
furnishings be standard -- I would be interested in exploring
Weltons
Herb Klein - yes, I thought that was interesting
? - 25% or something like that, period so that David Jones can
be there serving hot rolls in the morning and he cares about it
because the if it were a condominium association wouldn't care.
David Jones - you're pressing both your points and Roger, specifically
what I failed to mention was that there are problems that are
(?) a David Jones Management Corporation which would, indeed, be
headed by a fellow by the name of David Jones who cares to stay
here and live here and probably still live at the Mollie Gibson
because my guests are my friends.
Roger Hunt - Well, if we can keep that on the Land Use basis,
fantastic
? - everyone laughs
David Jones - explain to you a very serious problem and the only
viable answer that we have been able to come up with today and
with respect to the 25%, that's a good idea, I'm not sure quantitativel,
that is enough and I'm not being greedy, I'm being academically
correct. I don't know what it would be, it would take some
determination, but at least it's a start in the right direction
and acknowleges our problem
Olaf Hedstrom - yes, I'm glad you realize that we do appreciate your
problem and was instructed to learn for the first time from you
and perhaps, with some help
SACHS KLEIN & SEIGLE
JEFFREY H. SACHS ATTORNEYS AT LAW
HERBERT S. KLEIN 601 EAST MAIN STREET
JON DAVID SEIGLE ASPEN. COLORADO 81611
(303) 925.6813
October 23, 1979
Mayor and Members of Aspen
City Council
130 South Galena Street
Aspen, Colorado 81611
Re: Molly Gibson Lodge
Dear Mayor Edel and Council Members:
DENVER OFFICE:
1880 LINCOLN STREET -SUITE 1518
DENVER,COLORADO 80264
303 ) 837.8800
At the City Council hearing_ on October 22, 1979, the Council.
voted 3 to 2 to deny the request for exemption from subdivision rules
to approve the proposed condominiumization of the Molly Gibson Lodge.
The Planning and Zoning Commission had previously recommended denial
of the condominiumization of the Lodge because it is a non -conforming
use located in the R-6 zoning district. At the City Council meeting,
this legal question was debated fully and the City Attorney gave his
opinion that the condominiumization of a non -conforming use is not
permitted under Section 20-9(c) of the Subdivision Ordinances.
Unfortunately, at the time of the City Council meeting, it
was unknown to the City Attorney, Planning Staff, Planning and Zoning
Commission, City Council and attorney for the applicant that in .fact
a prior condominiumization of a non -conforming use had been accom-
plished. This is a very unfortunate matter, and it is obvious that
knowledge to all agencies and persons concerned that a non -conforming
use had previously been condominiumized would have been critical infor-
mation affecting the judgment of the City Council and City Attorney.
I am enclosing a copy of the memorandum to the City Council
dated June 8, 1976, concerning recommendations as to the proposed
condominiumization of the Scott office building. The memorandum
clearly indicates that the building is a non -conforming use (offices)
within the R-6 zone. This subdivision application was processed in
due course and was approved by the City Council in June of 1977. The
condominium documents were recorded in the Pitkin County real property
records on July 7, 1977. Review of the applicable file at the Planning
Office will indicate that the non -conforming status of the building
was known to all persons throughout the subdivision process.
I sincerely regret that this fact was unknown to the Council
members and other persons involved in the discussion of the proposed
condominiumization of the Molly Gibson Lodge. However, the problem
Mayor and Members of Aspen
City Council
October 23, 1979
Page two
remains as to what action can now be taken to correct this matter
in light of the previous actions of the City in approving the
condominiumization of the Scott office building. It is respectfully
requested that the City Council schedule a re -hearing of the Molly
Gibson Lodge application based upon the discovery of new and
extremely pertinent information applicable to the legal question
involved. I sincerely believe that this information, if available
at the prior hearing, would have definitely affected the judgement of
some of the Council members who were inclined to vote against the
Molly Gibson application based upon the incomplete legal information
furnished by the Planning Staff and the City Attorney.
The purpose of this letter is not to access any blame to
the City Attorney or the Planning Staff for the unfortunate omission
of this pertinent information. We all know that the mass of informa-
tion processed through Planning Staff and the City Attorney's office
is overwhelming and it is understandable that information of this
nature cannot readily be retrieved from the files without specific
recollection of some of the individuals who were involved at the
time.
The main problem that needs to be addressed in fairness to
the applicant for the Molly Gibson Lodge condominiumization is what
to do about the absence of this important information in the consider-
ations of the City Council. I sincerely hope you agree to schedule a
re -hearing of such application to correct this inadvertent injustice
to the applicant.
Very truly yours,
SACHS, KLEIN & SEIGLE
B1
JHS/jeb
Enclosure
cc: Ronald Stock, Esq.
City Attorney
MEMORANDUM
TO: Aspen City Council
FROM: Planning Staff (HC)
RE: Scott Building Condominiums - Conceptual Subdivision Approval
DATE: June 8, 1976
This is a request for conceptual subdivision approval for the
condominiumization of the Scott Building on Lots K through S
(9 lots) in Block 38. The zoning for the property is R-6 and
as such the building is a non -conforming use. The building con-
tains the following uses:
1. A medical office - 1450 square feet.
2. Seven (7) apartment units consisting of two (2) studios;
one (1) one bedroom apartment; two (2) two bedroom apart-
ments; and t"ret (2) three bedroom apartments.
Two
The building is 11,866 square feet in size.
The Planning Commission originally considered this application on
October 6, 1975, and tabled the request pending additional information
concerning parking requirements and the lot area to be assigned to
the building. On June 2, 1976, the Planning and Zoning Commission
granted approval to the request.
building is a non -conforming use and as such the R-6 density
or parking requirements do not apply. The Planning Office has
administratively determined that it would be appropriate to evaluate
these criteria according to the requirements of the R/MF zone.
Accordingly, the following figures renardinq minimun land area and
parking spaces have been calculated:
R/MF ZONE DENSITY REOUIREMENTS
2 studios =
1000 x
2
= 2,000
1 one bedroom =
1250 x
1
= 1,250
2 two bedroom =
2100 x
2
= 4,200
2 three bedroom =
3630 x
2
- 7,260
Office = 1:1 F.A.R. 1450
- 1450
-= 1,450
TOTAL
AREA REQUIREMENT
16,160 square feet
R/MF PARKING REQUIREMENTS
R/MF requires one/bedroom for residential uses. Other uses are by review.
2 studios
= 1
x
2
= 2
spaces
1 one bedroom
= 1
x
1
= 1
space
2 two bedroom
= 2
x
2
= 4
spaces
2 three bedroom
= 3
x
2
= 6
spaces
Office
= 3/1000
x
1450
= 4
spaces
TOTAL PARKING SPACES REQUIRED = 17 spaces
The Planning Office recommends that conceptual subdivision approval
be granted subject to the requirement that six (6) lots be allocated
to the Scott Building leaving separate lots K, L & M for development
\under the R-6 zone. Also, that 17 parking spaces be provided to serve
the Scott Building Condominiums.
•
0
TO:
FROM:
RE:
DATE:
MEMORANDUM
Aspen City Council
Richard Grice, Planning Office
Molly Gibson Lodge - Subdivision Exemption
October 2, 1979
The attached application requests subdivision exemption for the condominiumiza-
tion of the Molly Gibson Lodge which is located in the R-6 zone district. The
building contains 22 individual lodge rooms including a manager's unit which is
utilized as full-time housing for the on -site lodge manager. The use is a legal
non -conforming use. The application indicates that no new kitchen facilities
will be installed in any unit and a unified management organization forthe lodge
will be required. This particular application is similar to the application you
reviewed for the Tipple Lodge in that no additional kitchens are proposed. The
application is dissimilar in that the Molly Gibson Lodge is located in the
residential zone where short-term accommodations are a non -conforming use.
The Planning Office's position is that condominiumization of lodges, be they
conforming or non -conforming, constitutes a change in use and therefore violation
of Growth Management. This application addresses this problem in that they offer
to place a restriction in the declarations and covenants creating the condominium
"which will prohibit any residential or long-term occupancy of any unit by the
owner of said unit and will prohibit any activities which are inconsistent with
the use of the lodge for tourist accommodations".
The City Engineering Department has recommended approval of the exemption
subject to a number of conditions which are enumerated in their memo to the
Planning Office of September 11, 1979.
The application was referred to Ron Stock who has recommended denial based
on Section 20-9(c) of the Aspen Municipal Code. That section reads as follows:
"No subdivision shall be approved which includes elements not in conformance
with the provisions of any applicable zoning ordinance or other ordinance
of the City of Aspen or law or regulation of the State of Colorado."
Based upon Ron's recommendation, the Planning and Zoning Commission
recommended denial of the subdivision exemption for the Molly Gibson Lodge at
their regular meeting on September 18, 1979.
The applicant's attorney, Herb Klein, feels that Section 20-9(c) has been
inappropriately applied to the exemption request of the Molly Gibson. There is
a letter in your packet to Ron Stock from Herb Klein in which Herb gives his legal
opinion.
The Condominium Managers Association is currently meeting to study a
number of issues facing the lodging community including the condominiumization
of lodges. Until the Association completes the study, the Planning Office will
not have any additional policy recommendations. ��
•
APPLICATION FOR EXEMPTION
FROM SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS
!71,
AUG 08 1979
cj�t
ASPEN / PITKIN CO.
PLANNING OFFICE
Request is hereby made on behalf of David F. Jones
(hereinafter referred to as "APPLICANT"), under Section 20-19(b)
of the Subdivision Regulations, for the City of Aspen, State
of Colorado, for an exemption from the definition of the term
"Subdivision" with respect for the following real property:
Lots O, P & Q, Block 59, City and
Townsite of Aspen, County of Pitkin,
State of Colorado.
It is submitted that the request to the exemption is appropriate.
This application involves the condominiumization of an existing
lodge facility known as the Molly Gibson Lodge. If an
exemption is granted, the owners of the property will have
a common interest in the land, recreational facilities, swimming
pool, parking area, utility rooms, laundry rooms, office and
lounge area and there will be a condominium declaration and
maintenance agreement applicable to the property which will
not in any way increase the land use impact of the property.
No loss of tourist short term lodging facilities will result
by reason of the exemption. A restriction will be provided
in the declaration and covenants creating the condominium which
will prohibit any residential or long term occupancy of any
unit by the owner of said unit and will prohibit any activities
which are inconsistent with the use of the lodae for tourist
accommodations. No new kitchen facilities will be installed
in any unit and a unified management organization for the
lodge will be required.
An exemption in this case will not conflict with
the intent and purpose of the Subdivision Regulations which
are directed to assist the orderly, efficient, and integrated
development of the City of Aspen, to insure the proper
distribution of population, to coordinate the need for public
services, and to encourage well planned subdivision. A strict
•
•
interpretation and compliance with the Subdivision Regulations
in this case would deprive the Applicant of the reasonable
use of his land.
The granting of this application will not under-
mine the intent of the Subdivision Regulations as it is
clearly within the area intended for exemption under Section
20-19. The building is already in existence, and there
will be no change in density. The building contains 22
individual lodge rooms including a manager's unit which
is utilized as full time housing for the on -site lodge
manager. This use exists as a legal nonconforming use in
the R-6 zone district. Many like uses exist in the R-6 zone
and the degree of incompatibility with the neighborhood is
minimal or nonexistent. The condominiumization of this
use will not create a new nonconforming use nor increase
the degree of nonconformity. No structural changes are
contemplated and no change in use is contemplated nor will
be permitted under the condominium declarations. The use
will not change from its present use classification "accommo-
dations".
There are no existing residential tenants or leases
applicable to the lodge unit and therefore provision for low
or moderate income housing as described in the Municipal Code
for the City of Aspen is not applicable to this application.
The Applicant would appreciate your consideration
of this application at your next regular meeting.
Dated: July 26, 1979
SACHS, KLEIN & SEIGLE
By
Herbert . Klein
Attorneys for David F. Jones
601 East Main Street
Aspen, Colorado 81611
(303)925-6813
- 2 -
• 0
SACHS KLEIN & SEIGLE
,EFFREY H. SACHS ATTORNEYS AT LAW
HERBERT S. KLEIN 801 EAST MAIN STREET
JON DAVID SEIGLE ASPEN. COLORADO 81611
(303) 928-6813
September 25, 1979
Ron Stock, Esq.
City Attorney
130 S. Galena
Aspen, Colorado 81611-
Dear Ron:
DENVER OFFICE:
1860 LINCOLN STREET -SUITE 1818
DENVER,COLORADO 80204
( 303 ) 837.8800
RE: Condominiumization of
Molly Gibson Lodge
At the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting held
on September 18, 1979, I received a copy of your
memorandum recommending deniai of the condominiumization
of the Molly Gibson Lodge based upon your opinion that as
non-confcrming use it was barred from condominiumization
by the requirements of Section 20-9 (c) of the Aspen
Municipal Code. I attempted to respond to your opinion
so that cur views could be clarified and hopefully
resolved so that the commission cculd act on the merits of
the application, however, I was ctt-off by Mr. Hedstrom,
the chairman of the commission whc refused me the
opportunity to so respond. As I did not have an
opportunity to meet with you before the meeting to
discuss the legal posturing of the: application and was
not afforded an opportunity to do so at the commission
hearing, please consider this letter my response to your
opinion. I request your reasoned and considered
advice so that I may advise my client how best to proceed.
The Section referred to in your meriorandum, 20-9 (c)
states:
"No subdivision shall be approved which
includes elements not in conformance
with the provisions of any applicable zoning
A s� odivisi°.c1 ordinance or other ordinance of the City
of Aspen or law or regulation of the State
of Colorado. "
The Molly Gibson Lodge is a non -conforming use existing
in the R-6 residential zone. As a non -conforming use it
is afforded certain legal rights and benefits under the
provisions of the zoning code of the City of Aspen found
at Article XII; Section 24-12 et seg . At Section 24-12.9
the code states that the ordinance is not an abatement
ordinance. and that:
Page 2
continued
"It is the intention of this article that non-
conforming structures and uses be permitted to
continue to exist unless abandoned or destroyed,
but not extended, enlarged, or expanded.."
Therefore, the non -conforming use status of the Molly Gibson
Lodge is afforded very specific rights and privileges for
lawful existence under the provisions of Section 24-12 et
seq. The conclusion therefore is drawn that the condomin-
iumization of the Molly Gibson Lodge is in conformance with
the provisions of the applicable zcning ordinance, i.e.
Section 24-12 et seq. No change of use is involved in the
change of ownership that results from condominiumization and
no extension, enlargement, or expansion is anticipated. The
mere fact that it is a non -conforming use does not mean
that it is violative of "applicable zoning ordinance" as used
in Section 20-9 (c).
Section 24-12.4 has prefatory language which sets forth
certain of the rights incident to lawful nonconforming uses.
Language such as:
"The lawful use may be continued so long as
it remains otherwise lawful, subject to the
following provisions..."
indicates very specific rights to enjoy the other "lawful"
incidents of property ownership granted under other sections
of the code. The wording "otherwise lawful" implies re-
ferencing rights granted under other sections of the zoning
code such as subdivision or exemption procedures which are
to be read in conjunction with and .in harmony with Section
24-12 et seq.
At sub -paragraph (e) of Section 24-12 the prohibition is
clearly stated against enlargement, extension, construction,
re -construction, movement or structural alteration of the
structure containing a non -conforming use. Section 24-12.4
(b) sets forth a specific affirmative right that provides for
the extension of the non -conforming use throughout a existing
structure such as the Molly Gibson Lodge.
Section 24-12.4•(c) states as folloxas:
"If no structural alterat-ions are made any non-
conforming use of the structure, or structure
and premises, may be changed to another use of
the same or higher classification, but such use
shall not be changed to use of a lower or lesser
restrictive classification."
Under this provision of the code it would appear that non-
conforming uses -are allowed to change to other uses of the
same or higher classifications without violating the zoning.
This specific right is granted by the zoning code. The
Page 3
continued
proposal for condominiumization of the Molly Gibson Lodge
involves a change of ownership only but under current Planning
Office theories, change of ownership seems to mean the same
thing as a change of use. Therefore the application may be
postured as a change of use from single ownership lodge to
multiple ownership lodge both being within the use class-
ification "accommodations". Nothing in these provisions
of the zoning ordinance prohibit change of ownership.
There is additional language in Section 24-12 et seq which
supports this position. At Section 24-12.7 there is lan-
guage which prohibits the subdivision of property which would
create a "new" non -conforming use. This specific provision
tends to imply that subdivision would be permitted if it
resulted in the change of ownership of an "old" non -conforming
use.
In summary, I would greatly appreciate your review of the
pertinent sections of the code in light of the discussion
contained above. I sincerely believe that non -conforming uses
have rights granted under the zoning code including the bene-fits
of subdivision and exemption procedures and are not prohibited
from changes in ownership interests such as condominiumization
by the general language of Section 20-9 (c). Nothing violative
of the goals and policies of the zoning would occur in the event
this subdivision exemption were approved.
I will be out of town until approximately October 15, and
Jeff Sachs dill contact you in my absence. Thank you for your
consideration in this matter of great importance to my client.
Very truly yours,
SACHS KLEIN & SEIGLE
By:
Herbert S. Klein
HSK:ea
PA
MEMORANDUM
TO: Richard Grice, Planning Office
FROM: Daniel A. McArthur, Assistant City Engineer
RE: Molly Gibson Lodge Subdivision Exemption
DATE: September 11, 1979
After having reviewed the improvement survey for the above subdivision
exemption and having made a site inspection, the Engineering Department feels
the following items should be corrected.
I. The owner shall revise and resubmit a new improvement survey with the
following items:
a. Under the surveyor's certificate and title, City of Aspen should
read Original Aspen Townsite, City of Aspen.
b. Show adjoining Lots N and P, in Block 59.
C. Show location of existing trash container.
d. Show locations of all parking spaces.
e. Show existing curb and gutter and sidewalk.
2. Owner shall provide a 10 foot x 10 foot electric transformer easement in
the NW corner of existing Lot "0"
The Engineering Department recommends approval for the above subdivision
exemption subject to the applicant correcting the above conditions.
0
•
• CITY OF ASPEN
130 south galena street • aspen, colorado 81611
coallcil==A, 19genda
Octo
12:00 EXECUTIVE SESSION: (1) Selection of Underwriter, (2) City
Manager Appointment," ( 3 ) Water
4:00 JOINT MEETING WITH COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
1. Clean Air Advisory Board, Resolution #19, Series of 1979
2. Water Agency Management Agreement - Karen Smith
3. Colorado Highway Request List
5:00
COUNCIL
MEETING
I.
MINUTES - September 24, 25, October 3, 4, 1979
II.!
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION
III.
COUNCI1,MEMBER COMMENTS
5:30
IV.
LIQUOR LICENSE RENEWALS
any
1. Great Western Spirit Co pany - Package Liquors
2. Tom's Market - 3.2 bee
3. Little Annie's - 3-way
4. Grog Shop - Package Liq
V.
APPLICATION FOR 3-WAY LIQUOR LICENSE - Buster and the
Fox
6:00
VI.
CENTENNIAL PROJECTS (Tabled froin October 9)
VIi.
COORDES EMPLOYEE HOUSING AND SUBDIVISION EXEMPTION
6:30
VIII.
ORDINANCE #74, SERIES OF 1979 - Prohibiting Subdivision
of -Hotels and Lodges
7:00
IX.
SUBDIVISION EXEMPTION - Molly Gibson
X.
FINAL PLAT .APPROVALS
1. Anderson
2. Hyman Street (Baker)
7:30
XI.
PUBLIC HEARINGS & SECOND READINGS
Ordinance #50, Series of 1979, Conflicts of Interest
Ordinance #58, Series of 1979, Zoning of Smuggler
Enclaves
8:00
XII.
CITY MANAGER
Water Plant Housing - Project Management Contract
Selection of Underwriter
housing Report
8:30
XIII.
CITY ATTORNEY
Ord- Hance #72, Series of 1979, L--1 Code Amendment
Water Attorney Representing Snowmass Village
Ordinance #75, Series of 1979, Mountain Bell Telephone
Tax
Free Market Extension
Next Regular Meeting November 12, 1979
f
0
Regular t•1t•eting Aspen City Council October 9, 1979
to contact the firm and recluc �;t a study. Mr. Martin :;aid they fool the tares will. be
iwell ::pent for an evaluation of the government. This i:, a study be professionals, and
�i ont.e:i.dr help is needed.
2. Olof. Hodstrom, Chairman of P & Z, told Council the Commision felt their reasons for
denyi.nq application of. the Tipple Lodge for subdivision cy.omption were clear and
compel -ling. The city has acirced upon zoning to concentrate touri:;t lodging Bear the commercial
core and ski area. Hedstrom stated it seemed undesirable to create any pressure towards
li shifting tourist accommodations out of these areas by pecan:; of a reduction in lodge units
availabe for short term tourist u:;e. Hedstrom said the 1? & Z felt condominiumi•Lat.ion of
lodges would do that. Hedstrom said it seemed the responsibility of the P & Z to try, in '
their best judgement, to protect the community against the possibility of adverse land use.
Hedstrom noted there is some evidence that existing condom i.ni.ums in separate ownership of
�i units does withdraw the units from short term market. At the Gant 16 per cent of the units
are never offered for short term rental; at the Alps 1G per cent; Top of the Village, 25
it per cent; Clarendon, 53 per cent-, Old One.11undred 20 per cent. II
h '
Hedstrom stated the P & Z judged separate ownership would tend to weaken and destroy the
special duality of a lodge created and maintained by onwer-operator. The quality of
i� lodges is a big concern at this time. Hedstrom said they felt it was not desirable to
j, alleviate one problem by an action that might create other, new and different problems.
The financial problems of modernizing lodges should be attacked by other means. i
3. Joe Porter told Council he was very concerned about the city buses being used by i
i school children. Porter stated he was in favor of consolidating the bus systems. However,
there is a serious problem with child safety. Also a lot of people are driving "their
ikids to school, which is counter to the transportation objectives. Porter said he would
like to see Council throw this back on the Board of Education temporarily until this
!I can be thought out better. This may be saving money but it is jeopardizing the safety pf
the children. Porter asked Council to make a commitment to do something. Mayor Edel
pointed out the system is not something the city wanted to pick up; the Board of Education
' dropped. the bus system. Mayor Edel said he is also concerned about it; however, he did
not want to see kids standing around freezing with no way to school. Mayor Edel suggested
the parents take this up with the Board of Education. Stalf said he had met with the i
school staff and there is a long range effort for total combination of the buse efforts.
The city or county should contract with the school to rurr school buses. Mayor Edel told
' Porter to meet with Stalf on t'iis issue. �I
COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS
Councilman Isaac pointed out Council had asked for an ordinance to affect condomin-l=i-
~ -----
zation and it is not on the agenda. City Attorney Stock tol��ouncil he was going to
recommend to r & Z to recommend a moratorium so that the city can address the issue.
Mayor Edel said that clause was in the motion and it should be done. i!
2. Councilman Isaac asked where Arthur's liquor application was. Staff told Council that
the liquor inspector could not be present, and the applicant is re -writing the contracts.
d
3. Councilman Parry announced the official opening of the Ice Garden Saturday, October II
13, and asked that Council be there. �I
4. Councilman Behrendt noted the -city is pushing for antique lights and asked if they
are part of the engineering desigrl for North Mill street. Councilman Behrendt said he
would like to see these lights on Mill street. Dan McArthur, city engineer, told Council
there are high level lights there now and antique lights do not. have enough candle power.
Mayor Edel asked the staff to investigate to see if the city could use the antique lights I
and still have enough power. i
5. Councilman Behrendt asked when the two reports on the Wheeler Opera House would be
ready. Jeff Sachs said the Rcaring Fork Valley Foundation on the Performing Arts study
would be ready Friday. Joe Wells said the Harry Weiss study i:: about two weeks away from
finalization. Mayor Edel asked that this be pushed for the nest Council meeting.
• I
6. Mayor Edel said the lunch meeting at the water plant was excellent, and he was impressed
by the needs coming up. Mayor Edel recommended anyone who did not attend make an appoint-
ment with Jim Markalunas. I!
7. Mayor Edel told Council tLat C.A.S.T. has been invited by the Colorado Ski County to
speak to them. The ski communities will have a voice in forest: service relationships,
ski area operator relationships, etc.' �)
8. Mayor Edel said the Counc:I will be interviewing for city rianager to week of October
15 and will have an executive meeting at noon October 22nd to riake a•decision. it
LIQUOR LICENSE RENEWALS - Paddy Bugatti's; Sub Sl;roppe
Tom Dunlop and Bob Jacobs had no problems with either. Councilman Isaac moved to approve 'I
the renewals for Paddy Bugatt:�'s and Sub Shoppe; seconded by Councilman Parry. All in
favor, motion carried. Mayor Edel left the meeting; Mayor Pro Tom Behrendt took over.
APPLICATION FOR 3-WAY LIQUOR LICENSE - Buster and the Fox :}
Mayor Pro Tom Behrendt opened the public hearing. Councilman Collins moved to cont-int
the public hearing until the next meeting upon applicant's request; seconded by Counci
man Isaac. All in favor, motion carried.
SPRCIAL EVENT PERMITS - Aspen Center for Visual Arts !,
Councilman Parry moved to approve the special. event permits for November 4; November 24;
and December 14; seconded by Councilman Isaac. All in favor, motion carried.
0
0
2 l e
It(,(.Iular Mooti rig Anpvn City Council October 9, 1979
CENTKNNTAI, PROOrCTS
Ramona Mar.kalunas told Council she would jest as soon wait to do the pr.escntation to the
entire Council.
Councilman Collins moved to table this item until October 22; seconded by Councilman
Isaac. All in favor, motion carried.
PROPOSAL TO ALLEVIATE MULTIPI,E_STOP _b3:I,IV1:I1Y TRUCK SERVICE
Buzz Howe, owner of Roaring Fork Delivery Company, told Council there are many restaurant,,
liquor stores and food shops dealing with approximately 40 distributors bringing supplies
on private vehicles. This produces approximately 8500 tons per year.. This produces a
large amount of congestion and inefficiency and pollution. Howe suggested finding a way
to consolidate the distributor's freight into single tracks for a single area. Howe
said that 4 or 5 different trucks are trying to get into the alleys; one truck could
deliver instead to a single area. The multiple trucks add to the visual impact. Howe
said for this to work they would have to have a warehouse facility where the supplies
could be brought in in bulk. *Bowe said he felt this would save the distributors money.
This plan is built on volume.
City Attorney Stock told Council they could limit trucks and the use of the streets, but
they cannot prohibit. Councilman Isaac said when Rio Grande was delivering a lot of
supplies, the costs went up because someone else was handling the merchandise. Mayor Pro
Tem Behrendt said before the Council could really address this, Howe should contact all
the distributors to get support. City Manager Stalf said if the merchants supported it
also, it could be considered. Without support, the city would be perceived as placing
regulations on how they do business. Stalf said if the merchants and distributors want
to do this, there will be no fight. Mayor Pro Tem Behrendt suggested Howe go out and
solicit support; if there is strong favor, the Council will listen to this.
City Attorney Stock told Mayor Pro Tem Behrendt even though he is abstaining, he is
counted in the quorum and the remaining three Councilmembers have the right to make the
decision. The applicant has the right to request tabling. Stock advised Council that.
a motion requires an affirmative vote of_all members present.
SUBDIVISION EXEMPTION - Klingman
Richard Grice, planning office, told Council this application was made in August of 1976
and went to P & Z and received approval for condominiumization of an existing duplex.
At that time', there was a change in the planning office•staf-f and there is no reference
of this ever getting to Council. Grice recommended Council approve the subdivision
exemption as it could have been the staff's fault.
Councilman Parry moved to approve the subdivision exemption; seconded by Councilman
Collins. All in favor, motion carried.
SUBDIVISION EXEMPTION - Molly Gibson
Jeff Sachs requested this item be placed on the October 22nd agenda.
REVIEW OF DESIGN HLTERNATIVES - North Mill Street
Dan McArthur-, city engineer, submitted a traffic study and letter from the di -sign consul-
tant. McArthur recommended the Council approve design alternate #1 which includes on
street parking on Mill street. The benefits of this plan are increase parking by 50
spaces, could be used as bus loading and unloading along Mill street. With this plan,
special bus turn out lanes would not be needed. Councilman Isaac stated he felt strongly
against #1 as in the winter with the snow plowing and the amount of traffic, it would
narrow the street. McArthur suggested on -street parking only in the summer, and in thle
winter the snow could be.piled there. The problem with #2 is that the Council has to
pick definite turn out lanes for buses.
McArthur told Council this plan has nothing to do with the Mill street.bridg.!_�; they will
only repave the portion from Puppy Smith street to the bridge. Stock told Council the
city has completed the acquisition for the' realignment of the bridge, and the city has
to convince the County to use road and bridge money to build the bridge. McArthur told
Council for reasons of safety there has to ke a small section of grass betwe;:r the. side-
walk and street. Joe Wells, planning office, said there is a concern about tYe parking
element of the proposal and the north side of the river continues to be an area that may
be logical fcr employee housing. The planning office also has reservations about the
lack of accommodation of pedestrial and bike movement. "Stalf pointed out with four lanes
the sidewalk can be placed right next to the street and the parked cars will be a buffer
from the street in the summer and the piled snow will be a buffer in the winter.
Councilman Collins asked for the cost comparisons. McArthur answered the consultant feel
#1 will be more expensive, but something less.than $100,000. Councilman Collins asked
if the consultants could develop both schemes and get bids on both. McArthur stated the
city has a contract for one design.
Councilman Isaac moved to approve #1 with A parking. Motion DIES for lack of second.
Councilman Parry moved to approve..#1; seconded by Councilman Collins. All in favor,
with the exception of Councilman Isaac. Mot.io;i carried.
McArthur told Council the additional cost tc bring road hase up from Glenwood Springs
would be $120 per 15 tons load. The city uses about 360 tons a year.
Regular Meeting Aspen City Council September 24, 1979
I� Councilman Iscaac moved that t.hc' Council is interested in the idea but doe:; not hove any
money to Blend on trolleys; if the private sector want:: to come forward with a proposal,
j the Council would be, wi l l.i ng to listen; seconded by Councilman Van Ness.. Mayor I'Ool. said
he would have to have more input: h-fore he could mhke any decision. All in favor, with
the exception of Mayor Edel. Motion carried.
SUBDIVISION EXEMPTION - Tipple Lodge
Richard Grice, planning department, told Council this is the first. application for condo-
miniumization of a lodge. 'Phis is in the lodge district and is the only zone where short
term accommodations are allowed. At the Tipple Lodge; there are 10 lodge units and 2
studios; all have been used for short term in the past. The engineering department has
no problems with the design. The planning office made referrals to various groups in the
community; both the Condominium Managers and the Ski Corp stated they were in favor of
maintaining short term accommodations -at the base of the hill. One realtor was of the
opinion condominiumization would allow upgrading of the lodges. Grice said the planning
office is convinced at that some price, these lodge units are bought by people that do
not have to rent the units.
The P & Z reviewed this extensively and recommended denial as condominiumization repre-
sented a potential change in use, which would be a violation of growth management and
would erode the short term market. The P & Z voted in favor of upgrading the lodges in
town and formed a committee to look into this.
Mary Faulkner, owner of the Tipple Lodge, requested subdivision exemption to condominium-
ize a hotel; 10 hr.tel rooms without kitchens. Ms. Faulkner told Council a small lodge
does not make much money, and there is not much money to make improvements. Ms. Faulkner
said this shot,ld not affect the community in the least. The L-2 district does not forbid
conversions; they are not asking for a change.in the zoning or use. Ms. Faulkner said
P & Z's reasons for denial are su_Fculation. (short term rentals to tourists are the way
to go in this location, there is more money to be made. J. D. Muller told Council that
a condominiumization was not within the intents and purposes of subdivision; nothing
would be gained by having this go through full subdivision review. The low income housing
is inapplicable because this has always been short term housing. The L-2 zone permits
this use; the parking has been satisfied; this; is not under growth management }plan.
Muller pointec out in the P & Z resolution stated possibilities of violation. When making
a decision, it is inpermissable to assume that the person will violate the law. Muller
outlined a Wheat Ridge case saying, once an aroplicant applies under the ordinance only
those factors which apply generally to all applicants may be considered. Mullo r said it
is unlawful. tc apply a law to this case which does not exist. Muller said this: application
does not violi.te anything in the present su:d__vision chapter.
City Attorney Stock told Council they are being.asked to make a decision that division of
the 12 units :.s not a subdivision. The ordinance defines subdivision as being condomini-
umization as yell as other divisions of prope:-ty. The argument being made tha= an
exemption shor:ld be granted is that the majority of the subdivision code is bated with
the division of land rather than structures. Stock told Council they had a le3al right
to deny the e:emption if they wish. There is a provision which addresses the :ondominium-
ization of st:uctures but does not speak to the condominiumization of lodges. Council
will have to determine if there is sufficient change by the condominiumization of this
property such that t:ouncil would want to put controls on it. Council could denand that
the property };e available for short term use, or that the owners could only oc:upy for
short period of times. Council could state t.A s is a subdivision and require that it go
through the e::ception process. Stock told Council he believed there are legally justifi-
able reasons they could deny condominiumization. 4
Grice said bo':h he and P & Z recommended denial from the start. Their interpretation of
the growth management ordinance is that it would not specify a control in specific differ-
ent types of i1rowth if conversion from one type to another was not also a violation.
Grice stated :pie and the P & Z felt that becua=e of this GMP ordinance, this wcald be a
change in use Councilwoman Michael asked for a response for Muller's argument that the
P & Z's seven statements that sort of predict the future as opposed to code viDlations as
to why this s;:ould not be exempted. Stock said Muller's argument for 2 or 3 of the points
in the resolution is very justified; the fact -that someone may or may not break the law
at some future point should not be part of the consideration for granting theexemption.
Stock told Co-rncil they are being asked to make a determination that the division of the
property from one piece into 12 is not a subdivision. Stock said a determination of
exemption is a statement that in fact it is not a division of property, i.e. a. subdivision
as defined in the Code.
Councilman Collins said he thought the exemption was exemption from the subdivision regu-
lations and not from the subdividing land. Councilman Parry said the Council is to deter-
mine whether _his change will be detrimental to the city. Mayor Edel asked wt.:it the
intent of the P & Z was in this resolution. Muller said the P & Z had to think about the
effects of th..s on everyone, and that is what their decision was based upon. 'councilman
Van Ness poin':ed out the Council has to find this application is not within the intents
and purposes cf the subdivision chapter. Mayor Edel said he had a problem with reversing
the decision f P & Z after they worked on this for months, and would like to bear from
the P & Z. Councilman Isaac said there is net way to control this. Councilman Isaac
ag-reed with P & Z and stated he did not want,elo see any condominiumization of lodges in
town. However.,'there is no law to do this. Councilman Isaac said he would like this
controlled through a contract. Stock told Council they had the power to say no to this,
put a moratorium on, and go ahead arid legislate. Councilman Van Ness said that most of
the reasons th.it P & Z-denied this for are pure speculation.
Regular Meeting
Aspen City_Council September 24, 1979
Councilman Collins said the aur. o:.n here is to _._�»� M1
! p preserve the integr.it•y of the tourist zone.
The tourist. Zone: has been watered clown in the last few years; it has been amended to permit
residences. Councilman Collins said if this lodge is conrlominiumized, the city will lose
the type of activity associated with the tourist. The end result will weaken the accommo-
dations the city wants to sce at the bottom of the hi11.. Muller T-%ointed out that putting
in kitchens would be a violation of GMP, and this will keep the Tipple short term. i
Councilman Isaac moved to approve the subivision exemption for the Tipple with the follow-
ing condition.; (1) enter into a contract stating the 10 units will be short term and be
registered with a central rc-servati.ons agency, (2) there will be on -site management, (3) no
building permits be issued for kitchen additions, and (4) next meeting look at writing up
an orc3illance t&�_rontr-ol lodgez.tseconded by Councilman Parry. Ms. Fau ;ner poi
that the lodge is too small to have on -site management. Councilman Isaac said one of the
units could be for on -site management. Councilman Isaac changed condition (2) to be local
management, not on -site. Councilman Isaac said not all units had to be under one manager.
Councilmembers Parry, Isaac, and Michael in favor; Councilmembers Van Ness, Collins and
Mayor Edel opposed. Motion NOT carried.
Councilman Van Ness moved to approve the exemption from the definition of subdivision with
no restrictions; seconded by Councilwoman Michael. Councilmembers Parry, Van Ness, and
Michael in favor; Councilmembers Isaac, Collins and Mayor Edel opposed. Motion NOT carried.
Councilman Van Ness moved to approve the exemption from the definition of subdivision with
the conditions that they register with Aspen Reservations or any other duly accredited
reservations bureau located in Pitkin County; Colorado; seconded by Councilman Parry.
Councilmembers Van Ness, Parry, and Michael in' favor; Mayor Edel, Councilmembers Isaac and
Collins opposed. Motion NOT carried.
Councilman Collins moved to table. Motion DIES for lack of a second.
1
Councilman Isaac moved to approve the subdivision exemption with the conditions in the
original motion; seconded bl Councilman Van Ness. Councilmembers Van Ness, Isaac, Michael,
Parry in favor; Councilman Collins, Mayor Edel opposed. Motion carried.
SUBDIVISION EXEMPTION - Beriro
Richard Grice told Council this request is to divide three lots on Hopkins street; these
are improved with a brick Victorian and some shacks. The HPC has given permission to
remove the shacks. Grice said this application does not affect the GMP'because single
family residences are not a: -lowed in the CC zone; commercial space is not allowed without
a development allotment. This approval will not result in development without additional
review. The engineering department has recommended approval subject to the condition
there be an agreement that the applicant either construct an 8 foot sidewalk or agree to
do so within 12 months. City Attorney recommends approval without condition. After much
discussion, P & Z decided there should only be a sidewalk over the middle lot as it is
already developed, and the other two right be developed sepa:atoly. The planning office
feels sidewalks are a standard part of subdivision regulations e;nd do feel it is appropriate.
Grice recommended a sidewal?: bc. developed on all three lots dither immediately or within
12 months in the event they anticipate development.
Peter Van Domelin, represenr_inc the applicant, told Council -.:he applicant• wishes to sell
the lots perhaps separately or together and wants to keep his options open. Van Domelin
told Council he did not feel the planning office should be given a carte blanche in setting
conditions on subdivision e:cemptions. Van Domelin pointed out I;eriro is only requesting
to be able to sell the lots; not to develop. The paving of a sidewalk has no relationship
with the request to sell the lets individually. There is no sidewalk on either side of
the developed lot. Stock :suggested they be asked to add a covenant to the property that
if the city creates a sidewalk improvement district, they would enter into that district.
Van Domelin said he felt that was fair. ,I
Councilman Van Ness moved to approve the subdivision exemption with the only condition
that in the event a sidewal': district is formed that this property would agree they would
join in a binding covenant; seconded by Councilwoman Michael. All in favor, motion carried -
SUBDIVISION EXEMPTION - Hibberd II
Grice told Council this is a request for a subdivision exemption for a duplex at North
Sevent and North streets. The property is zoned R-6 with 9,000 square feet. The engin-
eering department requests an easement for drainage and that both units have water meters
installed. City Attorney Stock reviewed this application, and F &'Z reviewed thi's and
recommended approval subject tc engineering's conditions and that the property be deed
restricted to six month minimum leases, and that the north unit be deed restricted by
covenant limiting price and occupancy for a period of five years. Councilman Behrendt
suggested that a street, sidewalk and curb improvetent agreement be added. (I
Councilman Behrendt moved to approve the subdivision exemption based upon the restrictions
outlined by Grice, and the applicant would agree to join any improvement districts for
street, sidewalk, gutter and curb; seconded by Councilman Parry. All .in favor, motion
carried. Councilman Collins -asked that the building departmctvt check out the duplex for
an extra third unit. Councilman Collins said this unit was advertised this summer, and
he would like a report from the building inspector.
SUBDIVISION EXEMPTION - Horizons III
I
Grice told Council this property is located at the intersection of Snowbunny and Cemetery
Lane. Engineering department recommends approval having only one curb cut;- there are
presently two. Also separate electric and water meters be required for each unit, and
that they enter. into a curb, gutter and sidewalk improvement agreement, This have never
Moll Z;Q;Ir� SC4 z� amf
-4
��
C."LL
Coda, t44U4;,� fJ6A;e4
r.
M,
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS 100 Leaves
ffmw 10 c. f. iiorr..Kn 6. S. ! L. CO.
ORDINANCI? 140. _
(Series of 1979)
AN ORDINANCE IMPOSING A TEMPORARY MORATORIUM ON THE
SUBDIVSION OF LODGE AI4D HOTEL UNITS AND THE APPROVAL OF
SUBDIVISION EXEMPTIONS FOR TIIE PURPOSE OF COND01',IINIUMIZATION,
TIME-SHARING OR SPLITTING THE FEE OF SUCH UNITS
WHEREAS, by definition hotels' and lodges are intended for the
temporary occupancy of guests as opposed to dwelling units which
are designed and intended as private residences; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of subdivision regulations is to assist
in the orderly, efficient and integrat--d development of the City;
to insure that a proper balance is achieved beween tourist and
residential housing; to support and assist zoning regulations;
and, to preserve the City's viability as a tourist area; and
WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission as well as the
City Council have investigated the experience of other ski resorts
in the subdivision of hotels and lodges; and
WHEREAS, the experience of other ski resorts has been that
the subdivision of hotels and lodges ty either condominiumization
or the appproval of time-sharing results in the removal of a sig-
nificant numbCr of units from the tourist accommodation pool; and
WHEREAS, it is the specific finding of the City Council that
the removal of' even a few units from the tourist accommodation
pool would result in an improper balance between tourist and resi-
dential housing and adversely affect the City's viability as a
tourist area; and
WHEREAS, it is the opinion of the City Council that under a
properly redrafted subdivision code it may be possible to approve
some form of subdivision without the detrimental effect exper-
ienced in other ski resorts; and
a,4}
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS 100 Leaves
r Ow4 w C. P. NOI-CRR 0. P. a L. CO.
WHEREAS, the subdivision regulations (ordinance), as cur-
rently proposed to be revised, would introduce significant change
in both the limitations and restrictions upon property; and
WHEREAS, the community is dependent upon it.,-; viability as a
tourist area;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF ASPEN, COLORADO:
The City of Aspen hereby exercises those powers and rights
granted to the City by the Constitution of the State of Colorado
as a home rule charter city to promote the safety, health and gen-
eral welfare of the City by imposing a temporary moratorium on the
subdivision or the approval of subdivision exemptions of hotel and
lodge units within the corporate limits of the City of Aspen for
the purpose of condominiumization, time-sharing or splitting t;ae
fee of such units. Said moratorium's�iall be for a period not to
exceed beyond provided, however, that on or
i
before that date, the City Council may extend the moratorium for a
I
period not to exceed eight (8) weeks if it is unable to complete
the required public hearings for the enactment of a specific ordi-
nance. Such eight (8) week extension shall be within the discre-
tion of the City Council as it may be deem appropriate.
Section 2
This temporary moratorium shall affect all hotel and lodge
units within the corporate limits of the City of Aspen with
respect to requests from property owners for the platting or sub-
division of such property for the purpose of condominiumization,
time-sharing or splitting the fee of such units or for an exeMp-
I
ition of such property from the provisions of the subdivision
regulations (ordinance); provided, however, the moratorium shall
not affect those requests which, at the time of the enactment of
-2-
V
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS 100 Leaves
FORM 50 C. F. 11OFCKFI R. R. 4 L. CO.
this ordinance on first reading, had been submitted to the City,
and with respect to which no final decision had been made by the
City. `
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or por-
tion of this ordinance is for any reason held invalid or unconsti-
tutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, such portion
shall be deemed a separate, distinct and independent provision and
such holding shall not affect the validity of the remaining por-
tions thereof.
A public hearing on the ordinance shall be held on the _ __
day of 1979, at 5:00 P.M. in the
City Council Chambers, Aspen City Hall, Aspen., Colorado.
INTRODUCED, READ A14D ORDERED published as provided by lav by
the City ColITICil of the City of Aspen, Colorado, at its regular
meeting held at the City of Aspen on I -lie
1979.
ATTEST:
I:athryn S. Koc
City Clerk
IIei-man Ede!
Mayor
ZTJ
3 --
REG011D OF P110GEEDINGS 100 Leaves
i r, n. n. n — ------
I'INALLY adopted, passed and approved on the day of
1979.
Herman Edel
Mayor
ATTEST:
Kathryn S. Koch
City Clerk
-4-
0
46
MEMORANDUM
TO: Aspen Planning and Zoning Commission
FROM: Richard Grice, Planning Office
RE: Mollie Gibson Lodge - Subdivision Exemption
DATE: September 14, 1979
The attached letter of application requests subdivision exemption for the
condominiumization of the Mollie Gibson Lodge which is located in the R-6 zone
district. The building contains 22 individual lodge rooms including a manager's
unit which is utilized as full time housing for the on -site lodge manager. The use
is a legal non -conforming use. The application indicates that no new kitchen
facilities will be installed in any unit and a unified management organization
for the lodge will be required. This particular application is similar to the
application you reviewed for the Tipple Lodge in that no additional kitchens
are proposed. This application is dissimilar in that the Mollie Gibson Lodge
is located in the residential zone where short term accommodations are a non-
conforming use.
The Planning Office's position is that condominiumization of lodges, be they
conforming or non -conforming, constitutes a change in use and therefore a violation
of Growth Management. This opinion is based on the belief that no restrictions or
covenants can be written which are self -enforcing and guarantee against a change in
use.
The application was referred to Ron Stock who has recommended denial based
upon Section 20-9(c) of the Aspen Municipal Code. That Section reads as follows:
"No subdivision shall be approved which includes elements not in
conformance the provisions of any applicable zoning ordinance or
other ordinance of the City of Aspen or law or regulation of the
State of Colorado."
We understand that Ron Stock is currently working on an amendment to Section
24-10.2 exempting from the GMP the conversion of property from a non -conforming
use to a conforming use. In the event Council adopts such an amendment, it would
then be appropriate for the applicant to resubmit his request.
The Engineering Department's comments are attached in their entirety.