HomeMy WebLinkAboutminutes.apz.19810407
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
100 Leaves
rORM'G C.F.HOECHlB.B.1I: LeQ.
Aspen Planning and zoning Commission
April 7, 1981
Regular Meeting
Olof Hedstrom called the meeting to order with members Hunt, Tygre, Blomquist,
Pardee, Harvey, and Klar present.
Commission's
Comments
Parker Quillen
Subdivision -
Preliminary
Plat
Roger Hunt noted that city property at the intersection of
Highway 82 and Cemetery Lane is turning into a used car lot.
Hunt asked the staff to look into that eyesore. Hunt stated
he was upset about the ability to expand out there without
any approvals.
Sunny Vann, planning director, told the Commission this is a
request to re-adjust a property line between lots 11 and 12,
block 1, Red Butte subdivision. This was turned down on request
of conceptual because of the request to create a third lot as
a result of this lot line adjustment. The application was sub-
mitted and turned down in the subdivision exception process.
The application was submitted again as a full subdivision. The
P & Z reviewed this at conceptual subdivision stage and also
denied the application at this time. The denial was based on a
policy decision and supported this through the general intent
of the subdivision regulations. Vann told P & Z the application
for the adjustment of the lot line complies with the basic
subdivision regulations but this would have resulted in a
circumvention of the growth management policy plan - creation of
a third lot by the subdivision of two lots.
The planning office drafted a resolution outlining the concerns
of the P & z, which was taken to Council at the conceptual
review. Council essentially agreed with the policy considera-
tions: however, they felt the application was consistent the
subdivision regulations as currently drafted. The city attorney
advised an appropriate resolution could be drafted in which in
exchange for approval of the project based on its compliance
with the subdivision regulations, pending litigation could be
dropped. There was some feeling on the part of Council that
there may have been some misrepresentation on behalf of prior
staff members. In light of this, Council approved the applica-
tion at conceptual level. Council instructed the city attorney
to draft a resolution, not removing the ability to pursue the
policy issue at a later date. Council was also issuing a
directive to P & Z of its desire to settle the litigation.
,vann pointed out this application is before P & Z for prelimin-
ary plat. The resolution from Council is enclosed in the packet
with review comments from the staff. The staff has found the
application essentially to be in compliance with the subdivision
regulations: ignoring the policy issue the P & Z was relying on
the general intent of the subdivision regulations to deny this.
The staff concurs with Council to resolve this issue and is
recommending approval: however, the staff suggests this approval
be predicated on the completion of some engineering requirements
and, second, conditioning this approval with respect to policy
but in the interest to resolve this situation and on the basis
there may have been some misrepresentation, approving it.
Hedstrom stated he wanted it clear that P & Z is not attempting
to establish policy but is referring to the policy inherently
stated in the subdivision regulations. The objection was that
P & Z could not recommend approval of an action that was clearly
thwarting the purpose of the regulations. City Attorney Taddune
outlined in his memorandum that Council was using the occasion
of approving this particular application so he could negotiate
April 7, 1981
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Page Two
a settlement of the lawsuit, which is currently pending. Hunt
asked what is new in this application that it is back before
P & z. Vann pointed out this is a full subdivision application
and must come before P & Z at preliminary plat. Blomquist
read from Section 20-5(d) "The lot lines established in such
approved subdivision (that is Red Butte) shall not be altered
by a conveyance of a part of such lots nor shall any part of
lot be joined with a part of any other lot for conveyance or
construction unless written application has been made to and
approved by the planning commission after finding that the
general purpose and purport of this chapter shall not be weakened
by such change". Blomquist stated that Section 20-2 is Purpose
and intent which includes such provisions as to safeguard the
interests of the public and the subdivider and provide consumer
protection for the purchaser. Blomquist said a subdivision is
filed for a long period of time; the people doing it, approving
it and buying parts of it are all relying on the representations
made. Blomquist said the purchasers reliance on the plat plus
the covenants plus design in this subdivision are items that
people should reasonably be allowed to rely on. Blomquist said
this reasoning should be added to a P & Z resolution.
Blomquist said he would vote to deny on the basis of the above
arguments because he cannot find that the general purpose is not
weakened when the general purpose is so specific to provide for
consumer protection. Hunt agreed completely. Pardee asked if
then-city attorney Stock confirmed what was represented. Vann
told P & Z Stock did not address the issue of policy but that
there was a physical mechanism in the Code that would allow this.
Pardee said he understood that a lot line adjustment required
some demonstration of hardship. Vann said this is not articu-
lated in the Code; that is criteria that has been used in the
past. Hunt said this has been to correct an error of survey,
or hardship, or trade-off of land for the convenience of more
space to a window; that has been basically the reasons the P & Z
has allowed lot line changes in the past.
Jon Seigle, representing the applicant, told P & Z when this
first came to them, the objections were not with the land use
considerations but the procedure that was followed. The minutes
reflect what P & z's concerns were was the mechanism and pro-
cedure followed did not require the applicant to go through
growth management process. The preference of P & Z and a
reason for denial was they wished to see the application go
through growth management and compete for an allocation. The
application then went to Council, who gave conceptual approval
they had no problems with what the application was doing, the
concept was fine. A minor reason was reliance on what the then-
city attorney said. Seigle said he had a sworn testimony of
Stock saying what he said he said. Seigle told P & Z his clients
asked Stock if there was a procedure available to do what they
wanted to do; Stock told them the procedure. Seigle told P & Z
Council had asked the acting city attorney is what is being
proposed illegal; is it permitted under the subdivision code.
The answer was yes. Based upon that, Council made the determina-
tion to approve the concept.
Seigle said the concept has been approved; they are now at the
preliminary plat stage. Seigle acknowledged the policy consid-
erations. The applicant has dealt with those. The focus now
is whether the applicant has complied with the set of criteria
set forth in the preliminary plat section of the Code. Seigle
pointed out the engineering department comments the plat is fine.
The planning office and attorney have recommended approval.
Seigle stated they have complied with this criteria. Seigle
told the Commission there is a basis for the applicant obtaining
the relief requested; what they were denied on was a policy
consideration not really stated in the Code. Seigle stated the
only thing at issue here is the moving of a lot line. It is
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RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
100 Leaves
~ORM 'I C. F. HOECKfL a. e. II: l. co.
April 7, 1981
P & Z
Page Three
trUe that the moving of that lot line will enable the applicant
at some period in time to apply for an exemption from growth
management to develop a third lot. Seigle said it is important
that Council has made a statement to P & Z that this subdivision
application ought to be approved in light of all the circum-
stances. Seigle introduced a photograph into the record showing
the vacant portion that will be developed. There is approxim~el:
330 feet along the road: across the road along approximately 250
feet there are six houses. Seigle pointed where there is one
house proposed. Seigle told the Commission when they are done
subdividing, the lots will be around 31,000 square feet, which
will be bigger than 1/3 of the lots in the subdivision at the
present time.
Seigle told P & Z this subdivision is twenty years old and there
have been additions to the subdivision since its original first
filing. There has not been any amendments to the covenants to
prevent resubdivision. Another reliance is zoning and the
zoning permitted 28,000 square feet lots. Seigle told P & z
he clients checked the covenants andc, the zoning. Seigle noted
one objection this this application is that the house would
block the view at the intersection. Seigle pointed out in a
exhibit that the house would be "way over here". Seigle said
was this application is attempting to do is not contrary to
anything that has been done in this subdivision.
Seigle said on objection to this is that it would change the
character of the neighborhood and everyone will be doing this.
Seigle stated this is a fallacy. The house was originally built
next to a lot line with a lot of vacant space. Seigle's client
owns the house next door and by putting the two lots together
has 90,000 square feet with excess of 30,000 square feet which
is vacant. Seigle pointed out how this could not be done in the
rest of the subdivision due to the placement of houses.
Seigle submitted to the record a letter sent to the neighbors to
explain what his client was attempting to do (letter dated
March 25, 1981). Seigle suggested Council has made a determina-
tion that this is not a mattter, in light of all circumstances,
that they want to litigate. Seigle stated the issue is there is
nothing in the code to prohibit something and there's no policy
addressing it. Seigle requested the Commission approve the
application. Seigle stated he understood the policy concerns
but this is not at the preliminary plat stage, which is a
technical stage. The policy issue had its day in the city
process.
Hedstrom said the only issue is not the moving of the lot line:
the Commission would be derelict if they failed to look beyond
the specific item before then and failed to consider the result
of this action. Blomquist read from the Council resolution
"approve the preliminary presentation upon sufficient demonstra-
tion that the application complies with the existing subdivision
regulations". Blomquist stated the Commission has to find,
before they approve this application, that the application
complies with the existing regulations. Blomquist said his
previous quotations indicates that it does not. The issue is
the reasons of the P & Z at conceputal. Blomquist told the
board based upon further information and the testimony of the
hearing, the P & Z must find a sufficient demonstration that
the application complies with the existing subdivision regula-
tions. The provision of law is very simple: that the P & Z
may only approve the adjustment of lot lines after finding
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April 7, 1981
Page Four
"that the general purpose and
be weakened by such change".
Section 20-2. Vann read from
is stated.
purport of this chapter shall not
Blomquist said the purpose is
P & z's resolution, in which this
Hedstrom opened the public hearing and entered into the record
communications from Nick McGrath and from Roland Fisher.
From Roland Fisher, "I have had a home in the Red Butte subdi-
vision for 14 years. When I bought the lot, I accepted the
approved plat and expected that the plan would be followed
through. I've just been told the City Council has given a
Mr. Quillen approval to turn his two lots into three for three
homes. This does not conform with the plan under which I made
my original purchase. You can understand that this is very
disturbing. The rules appear to be changing in the middle of
the game, and in general that is wrong. This opens the door
for another plat provision and others to disturb the nature of
the subdivision; a clever scheme to buy two lots and end up
with three, avoiding the original plat and caring not about
the increase of house density for the neighbors does not seem
reasonable for the good of the area. I fully expect you to deny
the change. My neighbors feel the same way. Please read this
letter from me and enter it into the record.
Bil Dunaway, property owner in Aspen and resident of pitkin
County, reminded P & Z that the Charter and state law provides
for P & z, and that it is an independent body that makes its
own decisions. Dunaway said he did not feel the Council has
business telling the P & Z what decision to make. Hedstrom
said he felt the P & Z members are aware of this and said he
felt the Commission was of an independent mind.
Roland Fisher, author of the letter, said he had studied the
plat and covenants carefully. Fisher said he counts on people
like P & Z to see that he is not the victim of others. Fisher
told the Commission that their covenants read only one detached
single family dwelling shall be placed on one of the platted
lots, and Fisher bought his lot with that understanding. The
owner of lot 12 put the house where he wanted, within the
covenants. Fisher stated a letter from Quillen's lawyer refers
to a vacant lot; there is no vacant lot, not in the category
Risher is talking about. Fisher stated that land had been
built upon, according to the covenants.
Nick McGrath, representing the Richardsons and Penny Evans,
told P & Z he disagreed with Seigle's characterization of the
nature of the application and with what the City Council did.
McGrath told P & Z his clients have come into this matter late.
Ms. Evans and Richardson had talked to the planning office and
someone told them not to worry, this will not be approved as
people cannot split lot lines and build other houses. McGrath
said he was not retained until after the Quillens filed a law
suit and the Council indicated they might wish to settle.
McGrath opined a party can, and this is bolstered by Blomquist's
quotation of the subdivision code, rely upon an existing plat.
McGrath noted Seigle pointed out a person can rely upon zoning;
McGrath stated this is the not the law and should not be the
policy. McGrath told the P & Z there are other lots that could
have the same idea, follow the Quillen example, divide into
three lots and build another house. McGrath told P & Z the
applicant had stated earlier they had no other reason for chang-
ing the lot line other than trying to get an exemption from the
GMP and further density. McGrath said the subdivision laws
exist for consumer protection regardless of the fact that there
may be lots larger and smaller than the applicant's. The plat
is of record and show lot 12 as being a large lot with one
house on this. McGrath stated the P & Z should not permit this
subdivision through the device of changing a lot line.
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RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
100 Leaves
FORM'G C.F.HOECKELB.B.II:L.CO.
April 7, 1981
P & Z
Page Five
Hunt said in his history on the P & Z was that when members saw
lot line changes that could be for no other purpose, even
though it was not announced but there would be a buildable lot,
to deny the request. McGrath agreed that history is clear and
the P & Z has the power to deny and that power is defensible.
Marvin Jordan, resident across the street, said the corner of
Red Butte and Cemetery Lane should be considered. This is a
very accute angle. people spin out on this corner. It is
necessary that drivers down the hill be able to see across the
open space to make sure no cars are coming. Jordan pointed out
that children wait for school buses and people wait for city
buses there. If a house is built on this area, it is going to
possibly obstruct the view. Jordan told P & Z when he bought
the property six years ago, he relied on the existing plats for
this subdivision. Jordan had discussions with the person who
owned the open house pasture, and has been leasing that horse
pasture for his horses. Jordan said he felt it was thoroughly
wrong to go changing the rules at this stage of the game.
Parker Quillen told the Commission there is no proposal to
change the rules of the covenants except those proposed by
Mr. Grath's clients. Quillen outlined the history of their
purchase of these two lots; originally interested in lot II,
block I, the deal fell through, offered the house next door,
took it up, offered the house they were originally interested
in. ~ that time, their broker told them they could combine
both lots, II and 12, and create a third lot. Quillen said he
did not have the money and did not think it could be done.
Their broker checked the covenants, checked with his attorney
and with the city attorney. Quillen said in every case there
were no prohibitions to combining these two lots in our effort
to apply for a third. Quillen said he believed one could
manage his own life and property as he sees fit unless one is
interfering with the lives or others or violating an area of
regulations.
Charles wirth told the P & Z he, at one time, owned all the
lots in the subdivision. Over a period people were looking for
the kind of place it is down there. Some of the lots are big
and some smaller; everybody seemed happy with the size in order
to live down there. wirth said the subdivision has had some
problmes keeping things they way they are, but they have had
a certain amount of cooperation from the city on regulations,
etc. wirth said he and the people in the subdivision have
more or less relied on the origianl plat and on the support
that they have had from the bodies that regulate this to keep
things the way they are. wirth said he felt everyone that
lives down there depends on these things staying the same.
Wirth said no one else has attempted to expand the number of
lots. wirth told the P & Z this subdivision was of the out-
skirts of town. People were allowed to have horses or whatever.
The intent was to have children and room to roam around in.
Blomquist asked Wirth when he was planning the subdivision
and drawing the lot ines, were there reasons inherent in the
land, flood danger or sun angles, that prompted him to lay it
out in a certain way. Wirth said he did spend a good deal of
time going over this, becoming familiar with the flat pieces
of ground. The lots were made larger on the inside so that
people could have horses. There was no intent at all of allow-
ing to be resubdivided or shortened in size.
Robert Pars told the Commission he felt that Quillen is improv-
April 7, 1981
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Page Six
ing the development by doing what he feels is right. Pars said
by looking at the work that has been done there has been a lot
of good improvements in the development. Pars said Quillen is
increasing the quality in that area and building and improving
his home.
Marty Kelleher, owner of lot 5, said they bought the first lot
in the Red Butte subdivision from Mr. Wirth. At that time, the
subdivision was staked out so there and there would only be so
many lots. Ms. Kelleher said she thinks the number of lots was
12 and it would remain just 12 building sites in the subdivision.
Ms. Kelleher told the Commission that the house across the
street had been for sale many times and people have looked into
putting another building on that big employ lot. Whenever
someone has checked into this, for some reason it could not be
done. Ms. Kelleher said she hoped the Commission would oppose
the change.
There were no further comments. Hedstrom closed the public
hearing.
Seigle brought up the word "intention" used in the memorandum
by the city attorney, it is not their intention. The word is
what is the intention of the subdivision ordinances. This is
where the legal problem has arisen, and it is because there has
been no further definition of that section which prohibits or
directs this question before you. Seigle stated there has been
a lot of talk about people relying on the pasture; what is their
reliance based on. It is not in the protective covenants nor
does it appear on the plat. And it does not appear in the zoning
Seigle proposed, because of the controvery of this issue, to
let Council decide. Council has indicated their initiat concern
and direction, and it seems appropriate to give it back to
Council.
Harvey asked if the law suit was still pending; Taddune answered
it is. Harvey said he did not feel he could vot on any applica-
tion while there was a hammer of a lawsuit over his head.
Harvey said he felt very strongly in this instance because this
suit was filed before the exhaustion of administrative remedies
was through the system. Seigle stated the suit was filed
after a denial through the exception procedure. P & Z is the
final authority on that. Vann stated there was a further
administrative process to seek.
Blomquist stated the ordinance is cleark, the findings that
have to be made here, the resolution that was passed previously
was probably incomplete or not quite clear. P & Z ought to
clear up that act. The Council resolution requested this
approval was very clear in stipulating that y & Z should find
that their denial was inconsistent with the subdivision regula-
tions, and the findings Blomquist has from the regulations
indicate that is not the case.
Taddune read from the Zoning and Land Use Control and told P&Z
there is a question of concern about the result that will
eventually be accomplished. Whether or not the city's subdivi-
sion regulations are comprehensive enough is a legla issue that
the court would have to decide in determining whether or not
the actions of the P & Z are capricious. Pardee said the
Commission' position has certain been as shown in the resolution
that the intent of the subdivision has not been met and the
portion of the Code that Blomquist read lays it out very clearl~
Pardee said the commission has not had any demonstration of hard-
ship. Both of those are the basis of denial. Pardee said this
is a recorded plat which other people have relied on and it is
not in the public interest to move it. Pardee said he could
not remember a time when P & Z has moved a lot line and not
asked if this would increase the development potential.
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RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
100 Leaves
FORM 'I C.F.HOECKELO.B.&L.CO.
Page Seven
April 7, 1981
P & z
pitkin Reserve
Conceptual PUD
Submission
Koval Residential
Bonus Overlay
Rezoning/70:30
subdivision
Exception
Hunt said there is nothing indicated by the applicant that gives
him any reason to recommend approval of this subdivision. This
subdivision is only the establishment of moving the lot line
and there is no foundation or reason for moving that lot line.
Anderson agreement. Ms. Klar said the issue gets into density,
the objectives are a lot broader in terms of the whole community
and not just this subdivision.
Lardee stated he is against this application; he does not
believe it complies with the intention of the subdivision,
referencing Section 20-5. No hardship has been determined. It
may be legal to apply; however, there is no guarantee that this
body, which has discretion, would approve it. Ms. Tygre agreed
with the Board members and felt that Blomquist's point is well
taken. Hedstrom said his feeling is with most of the others.
Blomquist noted the charm of this town is the variations between
subdivision, each has their little character and different
style. This has to be protected, it has been whittle away at
and getting more uniform.
Hunt moved to have the planning office draft a resolution along
the lines of 81-1 including the statements brought up by
Blonquist including quoting section 20-5(d) and the general
purpose as further identified in Section 20-2, including the
standards and including the consumer protection for the purchasel
and the fact P & z finds it does not meet the subdivision regu-
lations; seconded by Tygre. Pardee said he would like to
review the resolution.
Roll call vote; Harvey, aye; Hunt, aye; Klar, aye; Tygre, aye;
Anderson, aye; Pardee, aye; Hedstrom, aye. Motion carried.
Hedstrom requested the applicants to accept tabling this to a
later meeting. P & Z scheduled a special meeting April 14, 1981
because of timing and the work load of the P & Z. Ferrell
submitted for the record there was a complete conceptual plan
on file with the planning office January 29, 1981.
Anderson moved to table the pitkin Reserve Conceputal PUD
submission to a special P & Z meeting Tuesday, April 14, 1981,
at 5:00 p.m.; seconded by Pardee. All in favor, motion carried.
Ms. Klar suggested the planning office work on legislation to
cover lot line adjustments. Vann told the P & Z his staff is
working on this.
Jack Johnson, planning office, told P & Z this is an applica-
tion for rezoning to residential bonus; growth management plan
exemption; 70/30 application; and subdivision exception for
the purpose of condominiumization. Johnson said this project
is located at 135 East Cooper with current zoning of R/MF.
This matter was before P & Z February 17; P & Z requested the
applicant to modify the site plan to accommodate a l:l parking
ratio. On March 17, planning office requested a continuance
of this item due to a notice deficiency to this evening.
Johnson reminded the Commission there was public comment at
the February 17 meeting; comments were to the effect that
parking was inadequate. There was also concern about the
changing character of "Victorian Aspen".
April 7, 1981
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Page Eight
Johnson told the Board this application requests a three-story
eleven, one-bedroom project. Eight of these units will be
deed restricted to the moderate income category. Johnson
reiterated the four items being requested. Johnson said the
referral comments are basically not out of context with what
the applicants propose. These include some water line
improvements and deed restrictions to moderate income category,
compliance with the appropriate code provisions.
The engineering department reviewed the revised site plan and
the parking. They found the parking to be adequate; the curb
cuts will have to be to code. The planning office suggests
the the rezoning to residential bonus overlay for this project
is appropriate; it does trade off 50 per cent density in
exchange for employee housing. This application complies with
the 70/30 ordinances. The planning office feels this is an
appropriate location for REO because the surrounding property
is R/MF and there is a lot of lodge structure in the vicinity.
The planning office does have an objection to the area and
bulk requirements; the applicant will have to modify one,
one-bedroom unit to a studio in order get the the proper
relationship of lot are to unit size.
Johnson pointed out the park dedication fee is discretionary
on city Council's part. At the February 17 P & Z meeting,
there was discussion about recommending a waiver of part or
all of these fees because it is a valid employee housing
project. The planning office recommends approval of rezoning
to R/MF/RBO; approval of exemption from the growth management
plan for purposes of 70/30 deed restricted housing; and
approval of subdivsion exception to condominiumize; and
approval of waiving conceptual before Council and preliminary
before P & Z. Johnson suggested in lieu of full subdivision
procedure, the other three requests go before Council at first
and second hearing.
The conditions placed on these recommendations are (I) provide
improvements to the water system as requested, (2) restrict
eight units to the moderate income category, (3) either
eliminate one bedroom altogether or modify it to a studio to
comply with the area and bulk requirements, (4) and P & Z
consider the appropriateness of the park dedication fees.
Andy Hecht, representing the applicant, said his client is
excited about the 70/30 process. Hecht said he felt that the
client could come out as well financially with just a duplex.
Hedstrom stated just because there are large buildings sur~
rounding this lot is no justification for building another
large structure. The mixture of large and small and old and
new is one of the assets of this community; these assets are
being destroyed. Hedstrom said he felt a lot is being given
up in the name of employee housing. Legislation that is on
the books may have to be reconsidered.
Pardee asked about the existing Victorian on the lot. Hecht
answered his client has purchased a lot in the West End and
may move the house there. Hunt objected to the impacts on
parking and the streets and to the removal of the Victorian,
which eliminates a neighborhood mix.
Hedstrom opened the public hearing. Harvey asked if the
engineering department was satisfied with the parking plan.
Johnson said they had answered back they were. It is prefer-
able to keep cars out of view but this site cannot accommodate
this. Harvey said he felt the density it too great; also,
the P & Z should relook the RBO.
Gus Hallum, owner of Deep Powder lodge, said this would move
from a single family residence on 30,000 square feet to eleven
families on 6,000 square feet. Hallum said this neighborhood
is very sensitive to anything that would deteriorate the
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RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
100 Leaves
April 7, 1981
P & Z
Page Nine
FORM" C.F.HOECKELB.B.II: l. co.
tourist experience and quality of the neighborhood. Hallum
said the one to one parking ratio is not realistic. There is
no parking on the street at present. There will be problems
with snow removal: there will be congestion problems.
Norma Dolle, Snow Queen lodge
preserve crucial Victorians.
opposed to overbuilting. The
owner, said they are trying to
Ms. Dolle stated she is strongly
growth must be controlled.
Larry Lettingham, neighbor, is strongly opposed to the
increased density. There will be parking problems.
Jim Riley, neighbor, said he felt there were enough beds in
this section of town.
Marge Riley, owner of the Little Red Ski Haus, said the P & z
and Council have been helpful in the "Save the victorian"
movement. There are many supporters in town and a lot of
sympathy from residents. Ms. Riley said she felt strongly
not to lose this Victorian.
Debbie Aiken, resident of the premise, pointed out that
Ordinance 16 directs the P & z to look at the area and bulk
and prefers that these new developments be placed in under-
developed areas.
Bernard Utcheneck presented picture of this particular
Victorian and told the Board that Mr. Koval has let this
house deteriorate. The HPC has recommended that this house
not be moved. The "Save the Victorian" committee circulated
a petition to get on the ballot to add to Ordinance 16 to
have all victorians reviewed. The committee has over 500
signatures who agree this would damage the charm and quality
of Aspen.
Jeff Sachs, representing the Aspen Growth Management founda-
tion, said this is a combination of economics and dumb laws.
If Aspen does not annex any more land, there is not much
land left to build on. The 70/30 law allows a developer to
go outside the growth management plan and build, provided
there is employee housing. There is also a residential bonus
overlay, which doubles the density. The potential for what
can go on is abhorant. This will go far beyond this particu-
lar application. These laws should be changed.
Andy Hecht pointed out that Ordinance 16 was passed to help
the employee housing problem. The committee has lost
employee units.
James Barrash, attorney from Colorado Springs, pointed out
that this Victorian is not the issue - it is going, either to
the West End or to be demolished (Victorian Heaven). Mr.
Koval has gone to lengths to comply with the Aspen laws.
Hedstrom closed the public hearing.
Welton Anderson pointed out 24.10-9(a) establisffithe review
criteria, one of which is the appropriateness for the area.
Other criteria are architectural design, bulk and density.
Anderson said he did not find this bulk consistent with the
neighborhood, nor is the structure as designed architecturally
appropriate. Joan Klar said there is a mix of community
values here. people are in favor of saving the Victorians:
the community wants to take a crack at solving the employee
April 7, 1981
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Page Ten
Hotel Jerome
Conceptmal PUD
Submission
housing problem. This is the first project of this type on
line, the P & Z should take a critical look at this.
Lee Pardee said it is important to realize this Victorian is
gone. There can be, by right, a duplex with the same foot-
print. The Commission has to decide whether they want a
duplex or employee housing. People are for employee housing
but not in their neighborhood. Pardee said if this is
approved, it should be low income housing rather than moderate.
Pardee recommended giving a break on the park dedication fee
and waiving 8/11's.
Jasmine Tygre said the Victorian is really not a question in
this particular application. Ms. Tygre said she felt the
density of the proposed project is too great and would prefer
a replacement structure because it would have less impact.
Ms. Tygre pointed out as the 70/30 projects are coming through
there are few low income projects. Most of them are moderate
and middle, which are hard to afford and not perhaps what the
community needs.
Roger Hunt stated there is nothing in the code that says the
P & Z has to allow up to the maximum density. Hunt said this
project is unsatisfactory to him density and bulk-wise.
Perry Harvey agreed with Hunt. Al Blomquist agreed with Ms.
Tygre. Blomquist suggested a duplex with a caretaker unit.
Hedstrom said he sided strongly with Ms. Tygre's statements.
Pardee said it is important to reflect that the site and the
project may not be applicable to the neighborhood and may not
meet all the review criteria. This does not say that the REO
and 70/30 are not valid pieces of legislation and theydon't
serve a purpose in the right situation.
Anderson moved to deny the Koval residential bonus overlay
rezoning because it does not meet the review criteria of
24.10-9 in regards to the appropriateness of the application
for the neighborhood, architectural design, bulk and density
and parking; seconded by Ms. Tygre.
Harvey said the density of the site is related to the parking.
If the parking were underground to minimize the impact on the
neighborhood, he would feel differently about this project.
Hunt said another alternative would be scaling down the whole
project. Pardee stated many of the adjacent landowners have
no on-site parking.
Hunt, aye; Harvey, aye; Klar, aye; Tygre, aye; Pardee, nay;
Anderson, aye; Hedstrom, aye. Motion carried
Alan Richman, planning office, reminded the Commission this
was before them previously; they raised several concerns
which the applicant and staff have been trying to work out.
The proposal is for 34 rooms in the old hotel and 76 new
rooms, with 4 employee units. The floor area ratio is greater
than 2.25:1. The request involves rezoning to CC/pUD. The
applicant is going to request historic designation from HPC
which would allow exemption from the GMP.
Concerns from previous P & Z meeting include parking, employee
housing, circulation, square footage mixture, density, and
the degree of inconvenience from the construction. Richman
researched the parking and parking studies and suggests 25
guest spaces and 35 employee spaces. The planning office would
press for the parking to be at the Rio Grande if a facility is
built. In lieu of that structure, the P & Z should request
the applicant lease a site and provide valet parking service.
, ,
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
100 Leaves
FOllll11 C.F.HOECKELB.8.1l: L. CD.
April 7, 1981
P & Z
Page Eleven
Regarding employee housing, the hotel employee 65 people and
will increase this by IS. Richman suggested that the entire
new increment be housed; the applicant is willing to become
involved in arrangements for this. It is important that the
P & Z outline to the applicant the paramters for parking and
housing rather than an exact solution.
As far as the circulation, P & Z was concerned about a Main
street entrance and suggested a MainlMil1 street entrance.
The Main street entrance is much preferable to the applicant
from security and employee needs. There is a pull off on
Main to the entrance. Hunt pointed out Main is very narrow
there and is difficult to negotiate now.
The engineering department suggested no degree of inconven-
ience would be suitable in this area and recommended all
construction materials be stored on site. The applicant has
not voiced objection to this restriction.
Richman recommended P & Z approve the conceptual PUD for
purposes of expanding the Hotel Jerome with conditions.
Pardee said 60 parking spaces is far too low. Blomquist
suggested the applicant re-investigate underground parking
rather than the hassel of dealing with the city on a transpor-
tation center at the Rio Grande. Harvey said the number of
parking spaces is all right as long as it is in conjunction
with a limosine service. Ms. Klar said at this stage the
number of parking is okay. The 60 parking spaces was agreed
upon by P & Z, except for Pardee. (Anderson and Tygre left).
The applicant has proposed four deed restricted units and that
the entire increment of new employees be housed by the
applicant in some arrangement worked out with the housing
department. Harvey stated he would like to see as many as
possible housed on the site, in the area of 12 to 14 people.
Blomquist said if this off-site housing is tied to the
project, it is immaterial how many people are housed, as long
as it is close to town. The Commission decided to leave it
to acceptable to the housing office.
Item 3, the storage of construction materials on the site,
is acceptable to the applicant. Hunt said they ought to be
allowed to use Bleeker street like any other construction
in town. They applicant has agreed to install a trash
compactor. Blomquist asked it be defined as inside the loadinc
bay. The applicant has agreed to install a new sidewalk,
curb and gutter along Main. If any damage is created to the
new sidewalk on Mill, they will fix it.
Harvey said at preliminary, the P & Z should have a definitive
parking plan, empleyee housing plan, circulation plan and a
mass, bulk, height, and use of space. This is the last time
the P & Z will have to see this application. Pardee pointed
out this will be exempted from the GMP if it is designated
an historic structure. This loophole ought to be closed.
Klar and Harvey argued some historical structures are worth
saving in order to preserve and allow an expansion to justify
the maintenance and renovation of the structure.
Harvey moved to recommend approval of the Hotel Jerome
conceptual PUD conditioned upon the items delinated in the
planning office memorandum of April I, 1981, with the
additions made by the Board. These are with 60 parking
spaces, 3 limosines, an option to underground the parking,
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April 7, 1981
Page Twelve
allowing the hotel to use Bleeker street during construction,
that the trash compactor be in the loading zone, and language
for a definitive review at preliminary plat, seconded by
Hunt. All in favor, motion carried.
John Gilmore said the conditions appear to be satisfactory and
as they plan and draw more, he will be more specific.
Code Amendment
Employee Units
in nonconforming
Lodges Alan Richman explained this is back to P & Z as a resolution
of approval. The change was heard at the last meeting.
Presently, a lodge is allowed a 700 square foot expansion in
certain zones. It has been recommended to allow the expansion
in all zones and to make this a conditional use in all the
zones. P & Z requested additions; that the deed restricted
units must be retained as a portion of the common elements of
the lodge; that the units be solely available to the employees
of the lodge. These have been added.
Hunt moved to adopt Resolution 81-5 as written; seconded by
Klar.
Blomquist asked that the amendment to rent solely to lodge
employees be stricken. Lodge owners ought to have the option
to rent to other employees at restricted rent. Richman said
the concern was in the enforcability as well as impacts on
neighborhoods.
All in favor, with the exception of Blomquist. Motion carried.
Dietsch
Subdivision
Exception
Richman told P & Z this is for purposes of condominiumizing.
It is a lot located on Lake avenue in the R-6 zone, it is a
little less than 12,000 square feet. There was recently a
lot line adjustment for this and the lot next door. The lot
was created in 1977 and pre-dates the GMP. The proposed
duplex would be allowed and the historic structure will be
incorporated. Planning office is recommended this request
with three conditions; (I) necessary corrections are made on
the plat, (2) six month minimum leases, and (3) insure that
the WoganlJacobsen be recorded prior to this. Gideon Kaufman
pointed out that the structures are not designed yet so that
they cannot draw the total plans before the Council meeting.
Richman said that condition could be stricken from the
engineering department memorandum.
Harvey moved to recommend subdivision exception for the Dietsct
proposed duplex, lot 17, Shaw and WPW joint venture subdivi-
sion conditioned upon the applicant making the necessary
corrections to the plat to conform to the engineering depart-
ment's memorandum of March 23, 1981 deleting 4(a) of that
memo; conditioned upon the applicant agreeing to restrict
the units to six month minimum leases under Section 20-22;
the applicant insuring that the WoganlJacobsen plat is
recording to final recordation of this; seconded by Pardee.
All in favor, motion carried.
Harvey moved to adjourn at 8:45 p.m.; seconded by Klar. All
in favor, motion carried.
City Clerk