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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1992-06-16 PZC MINUTESCITY OF ENGLEWOOD PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION JUNE 16, 1992 ·' I. CALL TO ORDER. The regular meeting of the City Planning and Zoning Commission was called to order by Chairman Jan Schultz in the City Council Chambers at 6:30 P. M. Members present: Covens, Draper, Gerlick, Glynn, Leonard, Shoop, Tobin, Schultz L. Martin, Ex-officio Members absent: Dummer (with previous notice) Also present: Harold J. Stitt, Planning Administrator Chairman Schultz declared a quorum present. II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES June 2, 1992 Chairman Schultz stated that the Minutes of June 2, 1992 were to be considered for approval. Gerlick moved: Tobin seconded: The Minutes of June 2, 1992 be approved as written. AYES: NAYS: Draper, Covens, Gerlick, Glynn, Leonard, Shoop, Tobin, Schultz None ABSENT: Dummer ABSTAIN: None The motion carried. m. COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE Proposed B-3 Zone District CASE #4-92 Mr. Schultz stated that the issue before the Commission is a proposed amendment of the Com- prehensive Zoning Ordinance by adding a new B-3 Zone District. He asked for a motion to open the Public Hearing. Covens moved: Tobin seconded: The Public Hearing on Case #4-92 be opened. AYES: NAYS: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: Gerlick, Glynn, Leonard, Shoop, Tobin, Covens, Draper, Schultz None Dummer None The motion carried. Mr. Schultz set forth the procedure to be followed in the conduct of the Public Hearing: all persons giving testimony shall be sworn in, identify themselves, give their address, and ad- dress the Commission from the podium. The Commission will ask that the staff present the 1 case, proponents will speak, then opponents will speak. There will be opportunities for ques-e tions from the Commission of all persons speaking, and an opportunity for rebuttal. Mr. Schultz asked that staff present the issue to the Commission. Harold J. Stitt was sworn in, and testified that he is the Planning Administrator in the Department of Community Development. Mr. Stitt presented Chairman Schultz with a copy of the Public Notice which was published in the Englewood Herald on June 4, 1992. Mr. Stitt stated that there are two existing business zone classifications: B-1, the pedestrian-oriented Downtown Business District; and B-2, which is more highway/automotive oriented in the uses that are permitted. This B-2 District is presently applied on South Broadway from Yale to Floyd, and from Kenyon south to the City Limits; along East and West Hampden Avenues; along Federal Boulevard in the Centennial Shopping Center area, and along West Evans A venue from South Raritan Street to South Zuni Street. There have been a number of inquiries over the years regarding the West Evans Avenue area: what uses are permitted, why a variety of other uses are not permitted, etc. Mr. Stitt stated that a large number of properties in this area are undeveloped, or under-developed. The most recent inquiry has come from Bill Ferrington, recent purchaser of 2380 West Evans Avenue ... Mr. Ferrington purchased a former "eye-sore", has cleaned the property, and now finds he is unable to sell or lease the property because the zoning restrictions do not permit the type of uses which prospective tenants/purchasers have in mind. This issue has been discussed with the Commission at recent meetings, and the consensus was to develop a new zone district which would encompass the present B-2 District provisions, and include a limited number of the lighter industrial uses, such as some "trades" contractors. Mr. Stitt pointed out that West Evans A venue is bordered on three sides by Denver, and the B-4 Zone classification in Denver allows automobile repair, auto body shops, paint shops, and limited light manufacturing uses. Specifically excluded are heavy construction contractors. Mr. Stitt stated that staff analyzed the existing zoning in the area and the existing land use of the area in developing the proposed B-3 regulations. This area is a transition between the highway oriented uses of the B-2 District, and the light industrial development to the far south and east of the area. Mr. Stitt pointed out that there is R-2-C, Medium Density Residential zoning which abuts directly on the B-2 District between South Tejon and South Zuni Street. The block between South Vallejo and South Tejon Street is sparsely developed, and right-of- way for West Adriatic Avenue is not fully dedicated. Mr. Stitt emphasized the need to make sure that whatever is proposed, and adopted, will improve the value of the entire area, and is not done just to address the economic concerns of one property owner. The B-3 District, as proposed, leaves the provisions of the existing B-2 Zone District in tact; some Conditional Uses in the B-2 District are proposed as "Permitted Uses" in the B-3 Dis- trict. Also permitted are contractors and trades businesses. The B-3 District, as proposed, does specifically except excavation, structural, well drilling, and similar heavy construction or equipment. Mr. Stitt reviewed the provisions of the proposed B-3 District: Accessory Uses, Conditional Uses, and Development Requirements. Mr. Stitt pointed out that Adult Enter- tainment and service facility has been included as a Conditional Use; this provision is in the existing B-2, Business, and I-1, Light Industrial District. Staff has some concern that if this provision were not included in the B-3 District, the City might be challenged by someone wanting such an establishment. Mr. Stitt stated that he had spoken with a member of the City Attorney's Office, and they concurred: were the City to be challenged, we would have to prove a "uniqueness" in the B-3 District which caused the exclusion of that use. Mr. Stitt stressed that the distance restrictions of the adult entertainment provision would effectively prohibit any such use from locating along West Evans Avenue because it would be within 500 feet of a residential zone district. 2 Setbacks in the proposed B-3 District were discussed by Mr. Stitt. A 10 foot setback is re- quired on all properties fronting or abutting a public right-of-way. Where a B-3 property would abut a residentially zoned property, the r¢sidential front yard requirement shall also ap- ply to the B-3 zoned property. · · · Mr. Stitt stated that this concluded his presentation on the B-3 District. Mr. Schultz asked if there were questions from the Commission of Mr. Stitt. Mr. Draper asked what was meant by Adult Entertainment Service Facilities. Mr. Stitt stated that this would be the "x" rated uses. Mr. Stitt discussed the measurement methods used in determining distances of Adult uses from residential uses , public parks, libraries, community centers, etc.; this is the "straight line" irrespective of crossing other properties, etc. and differs from the methodology used in determining distances for liquor establishments. Mr. Stitt stated he understands the Safety Services Department wants the Adult Entertainment Service Facilities provision removed. Mr. Stitt reiterated that he had been told by the City Attorney's Office that it is advisable to retain this provision in the B-3 District, as proposed. Mr. Schultz asked that persons in favor of the proposed B-3 Zone District address the Com-· · mission. Pat Quinney, Bell Engineering , stated that he was representing Manuel and Emily Guardado, who own a landscaping business . They own property on West Adriatic Avenue, extended, and had been using the property for storage of materials in conjunction with the landscaping busi- ness, but received a notice of violation from the City because the zoning on their property is residential. Mr. Quinney stated that Mr. and Mrs. Guardado want to use the property to park vehicles overnight, dispatch crews from this location, and eventually erect an office for their operation. There would be no retail or wholesale operation. He asked whether a business such as he has outlined would be permitted in the B-3 District as proposed. Mr. Stitt replied in the negative. The intent of the B-3 District is primarily retail, with limited uses of light in- dustrial. The business as outlined by Mr. Quinney would more properly belong in the I-1 or I- 2 Industrial Zone Districts. Mr. Quinney asked if the B-3 District were to be approved, what would the time element be before the district and rezoning would be final. Mr. Stitt stated that typically this could be fi- nal within 90 to 120 days; this is dependent on whether the Commission makes a determination this evening. Mr. Covens inquired whether the materials, when stored on the site, were on a dust-free sur- face. Mr. Quinney stated that he did not believe the surface was paved. Mr. John Bowman was sworn in, and testified that he owns land on West Adriatic Avenue. He asked why the proposed District boundaries (for Case #8-92) were so delineated. Mr. Stitt responded that from Tejon to Zuni, the property south of the Evans/Adriatic alley, extended, is zoned R-2-C, Medium Residence District. The block between Tejon and Vallejo has the street dedicated and open to use; there is some residential development in this block on · both sides of Adriatic, and were this to be rezoned would render those uses non-conforming. How- ever, the block between South Vallejo and South Zuni has ownerships that extend from West Evans south to West Adriatic Avenue, extended; the right-of-way for the street is not fully dedicated, and the properties are basically undeveloped . Mr. Stitt stated that were it to be the determination of the majority of the property owners in the block between South Tejon Street and South Vallejo Street that this area should be rezoned, the Commission would consider their request. 3 Mr. Schultz stated that the Commission does try to break zone districts on the rear property e lines rather than mid-street. Mr. Schultz asked if there were proponents who -wished to address the Commission. William Forrington was sworn in; he testified that he now owns 2380 West Evans Avenue, and has been unable to sell or lease the site because of the restrictions in the B-2 Zone District. The majority of uses that have been proposed by prospective purchasers/leasees are automotive in character --auto body shops, etc., which is not permitted. Mr. Forrington stated that the character of the Evans A venue area is very different than South Broadway, and that uses ap- propriate on South Broadway do not meet the needs along West Evans Avenue. Mr. Forring- ton stated that it is pretty evident to him that West Adriatic "will not go through". His prop- erty is split between the existing B-2 Zone District, and the R-2-C Residence District, and is just not usable at the present time. Mr. Forrington stated that he requested assistance from the Commission and staff to resolve his problem, and he is supportive of the proposed B-3 Dis- trict. Mr. Forrington stated that in his opinion, the proposed Zone District will foster devel- opment of not only his property, but other undeveloped properties in the area, and will in- crease land values. Mr. Forrington pointed out that this strip of West Evans Avenue is su.r- rounded on three sides by the City of Denver. Mr. Forrington stated that the proposed B-3 District will not change the health and lifestyle of the neighborhood. Mr. Covens asked what the response had been to discussions Mr. Forrington has had with neighboring businessmen/residents. Mr. Forrington stated that adjoining commercial neigh- bors are in favor of the B-3 District; he has not discussed the issue with any of the residents of the area. Mr. Covens asked if Mr. Forrington was still considering an awning manufacturing operation on the site. Mr. Forrington stated that the majority of the inquiries he receives are for auto- mobile related operations, and paint shops. Mr. Gerlick asked if the B-3 District would be acceptable to Mr. Forrington. Mr. Forrington stated that he needs the B-3 District in order to sell or lease his property. Mr. Schultz inquired if there were other proponents who wished to address the Commission. No one else spoke in favor of the proposed Zone District. Mr. Schultz then asked that persons in opposition address the Commission. Dorothy A. Romans was sworn in, and testified that she is speaking as a representative of the Police Division of the Safety Services Department. Mrs. Romans urged that the Planning Commission consider the correlation between land use, zoning, and crime in neighborhoods. Mrs. Romans stated that the area along West Evans Avenue is of great concern to the Police Department because of the number of incidents that occur. Mrs. Romans stated that since Jan- uary 1, 1991 to June 16, 1992, there have been 600 calls to the Department from the Evans, Adriatic, Baltic, Warren and Iliff area. On West Evans Avenue alone, there have been 364 calls; 22 calls have come from West Adriatic; 115 calls from West Warren Avenue; 64 .calls on West Baltic Avenue, and 14 calls on West Iliff Avenue. Mrs. Romans stated that when one considers the cost of the calls to the people involved, as well as to the community as a whole, it is a matter of great concern. She urged the Commission keep these statistics in mind when considering the proposed inclusion of Adult Entertainment and Service Facilities in the B-3 Zone District. Mrs. Romans further testified that she is a member of AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners), and has long been interested in land use development and zoning. The lack of street 4 lights, the type of uses permitted in areas can all lead to a high incidence of criminal activity. Mrs. Romans urged the Commission to keep this in mind in their deliberations of both the Comprehensive Plan and the Comprehensive _ Zoriing Ordinance. Mrs. Romans stated that while the Safety Services Department agrees that the actual location of an adult entertainment/service facility in this immediate area is a moot point, it is the posi- tion of the Department that this provision should be eliminated from the proposed B-3 District. Mrs. Romans further testified that she had spoken to City Attorney DeWitt at 2:15 P.M. on June 15, 1992, and that City Attorney DeWitt was also concerned about the inclusion of the adult entertainment/service facilities provision in the proposed B-3 District, and that there would be no problem with excluding this provision from the ordinance. Mrs. Romans stated that it is the recommendation of the Safety Services Department that Sec- tion E 1 be deleted from the proposed B-3 Zone District. Mr. Schultz asked whether Mrs. Romans' discussion with City Attorney DeWitt addressed the issue of First Amendment rights, and whether this would be an issue that should be consid- ered. Mrs. Romans stated that "the test is whether the City completely excludes the use; there are areas where you can have those businesses." · Mr. Shoop asked for further clarification on the type of crime calls that have been received. Mrs. Romans stated that of the 364 calls received from West Evans Avenue businesses, 324 of those calls were to businesses that are auto-related, primarily service stations; the majority of the calls pertained to people who filled the vehicle, and drove away without paying for the gas. Ms. Tobin commented that some service stations require a $20 deposit from patrons prior to filling the vehicle. Ms. Tobin asked if any calls were regarding car theft or stripping of vehicles. Mrs. Romans stated that those calls come from the residential areas, not along West Evans Avenue. Mr. Glynn asked whether the City of Denver also receives a large number of police calls from this area. Mrs. Romans stated that she did not have that information. Mrs. Leonard asked if there was much vandalism on vacant property. Mrs. Romans stated that there are no calls in the 2200 block of West Adriatic, but there are on West Warren. Mr. Gerlick stated that as he understood Mrs. Romans' testimony, the B-3 as proposed would be satisfactory to the Safety Services Department were the Section E 1 to be eliminated. Mrs. Romans stated that this section is the only concern of the Department. Mr. Covens asked Mrs. Romans if she felt B-3 was a good compromise between the B-2 and I- 1 Districts; does she think it would be applied to other areas of the City. Mrs. Romans stated that she did not think there were other areas of the City where this District would be appropri- ate; this northwest Englewood area is unique. Dennis Kelley, 2393 West Warren Avenue, was sworn in. Mr. Kelley testified that he can not find any reason to justify changing the zoning. Mr. Kelley strongly objected to rezoning of any residentially zoned property to commercial classification. Mr. Kelley stated that he had hoped that Adriatic A venue would go through, but the economy took a down-tum, and the costs to dedicate the land, to improve the street, install utility lines, etc. was just too expen- sive. Mr. Kelley stated that he felt the proposal would constitute "spot zoning"; if "something concrete" were to be proposed, he would be willing to look at it; but it appears that a special zone district is being developed for a specific area. Mr. Kelley stated that all the neighbors he has spoken to are in opposition to the proposal. 5 Mr. Covens inquired if Mr. Kelley felt that the development on West Evans should "mirror" the development on West Evans in Denver ... Mr. Kelley stated that he didn't feel there was much difference now; there is a bar on the Denver side, which Englewood doesn't need. Jerrold Capeasius, 2350 West Warren Avenue, was sworn in, and testified that he has not been able to determine the difference between the proposed B-3 District and the existing B-2. He does not want any zone district imposed on the area that will add to the problems cited by Mrs. Romans. He lives in this area and has for a number of years; he wants to retain the residential zoning. Mr. Capeasius stated that the proposed rezoning would only be of assistance to the businessmen who don't live in the area anyway; there should be some consideration given to the residents of the area. He stated that he is opposed to any change. Regarding the develop- ment along West Evans Avenue, he stated that Englewood does not have a bar on this street, and Englewood doesn't need it. He cited noise problems which are disturbing during the summer time. Mr. Schultz asked that Mr. Stitt clarify the different business classifications. Mr. Stitt stated that the B-1 is the Central Business District; B-2 is more high-way/automobile oriented; t~e proposed B-3 would allow the B-2 uses, plus additional light industrial-type uses. Mr. Stitt suggested that noise problems cited by Mr. Capeasius could be addressed by the Noise Ordi- nance. Mr. Gerlick stated that two people have expressed concern about the bar in Denver; could a liquor outlet be developed in Englewood on West Evans Avenue. Mr. Stitt stated that it could be developed under the B-2 Zone District, which is existing now; the Liquor Authority would have to hold a Public Hearing, but there would be no zoning restrictions on the development of a bar on this street. Ms. Tobin asked if #6 on Page 2 could apply to Mr. Capeasius's concerns regarding noise. Mr. Stitt stated that this provision is regarding "any similar lawful use", which is not men- tioned in the regulations of this District, but may be permitted by the Commission on specific consideration. The noise created by existing permitted uses can be controlled by the Noise Ordinance. Mr. Shoop asked how many non-conforming uses exist in the area now. Mr. Stitt stated that the landscaping operation that was given a notice of violation, was not permitted. There are a number of auto related/auto repair uses that have been "grand-fathered" in. The creation and application of the B-3 District, as proposed, won't create non-conforming uses. Mark Apodaca, 2351 West Warren Avenue, was sworn in, and testified to the uniqueness of the general neighborhood. He stated that he did not realize the crime rate in the area was as high as cited by Mrs. Romans. Mr. Apodaca stated that he would support elimination of the Adult Entertainment/service facility as a Conditional Use in the B-3 District. Mr. Apodaca stated that it appears to him that the primary difference between the B-2 and B-3 is that Condi- tional Uses in B-2 would be allowed in the B-3 with no specific approval of the Commission or an opportunity for the neighborhood to voice their opinion. This would take control away from the residents of the neighborhood and give it to the businessmen who don't live in the neighborhood. Mr. Apodaca stated that in his opinion, it is up to the neighbors to watch what develops in their neighborhood, and he does not feel there has been a problem with having to make special appearance before the Commission to gain approval for any specific use. Mr. Apodaca stated that there is a Bingo parlor in Denver, which has caused a lot of problems; Englewood does not want any such establishment or a bar along West Evans. The residents want to watch what happens in their neighborhood, and to watch what type of people are doing business in the area. Mr. Apodaca stated that he has small children, and this is of concern to 6 him. He stated that the residents are trying to revitalize the area, and it needs close surveil- lance. Mr. Shoop asked Mr. Apodaca what he felt about the possibility of Adriatic being dedicated and improved. Mr. Apodaca stated that he doubted · it would go through because of the people who own the lots that have yet to be dedicated. He stated that he has a "field" in back of his house at the present time, and would rather have that than an industrial business. Mr. Covens asked if Mr. Apodaca felt the community was too fragile to add businesses on Evans. Mr. Apodaca stated that this area is pretty fragile; there are a lot of rentals because of the rezoning a few years ago to permit duplexes and triplexes, which has led to a transient population. With the existing B-2 District, and the restrictions contained therein, the residents feel they have some control over what goes in. Mr. Apodaca stated that he had no problem with the landscaping operation and would rather have this type of business for a neighbor than bars. Mr. Apodaca stated that he felt the step of approving Conditional Uses in the B-2 Dis- trict is a good extra step for this neighborhood, and did not want to see this eliminated. Mike Stone was sworn in, and stated that he was representing Mr. Forrington. He stated that the opponents to the B-3 District do have a point in that the B-2 does offer control on devel- opment of some uses, but that the B-3 District will not be opening the flood gates to mass de- velopment of uses that are unsuitable to the area. Mr. Stone stressed that the problem on Mr. Forrington's property is that of split zoning; half of the site is zoned for business, and the south half is zoned for residential use. It is not Mr. Forrington's intent to erode the residential area, or to cause problems for the residents of the neighborhood. Mr. Stone stated that Mr. Forrington had purchased an eyesore, and has cleaned the property up; he now wants to be able to sell or lease the property and realize some income from the site. The B-3 District would add uniformity to the business area , and provide greater opportunity to the businessmen on Evans to use their properties . The City will not be losing control by approving the B-3 District. Mr. Stone stated that if the City wanted Adriatic to be developed, they will have to buy the land, and the improvements will have to be borne by the property owners. Mr. Stone stated that in his opinion, the proposed B-3 is the best that can be done under the circum- stances. Mr. Schultz asked if staff wanted to rebut any of the testimony. Mr. Stitt stated that there seems to be a great deal of concern about the proposed B-3 uses. Mr. Stitt emphasized that this would be allowing the uses in the existing B-2 District, allow some of the uses that are Conditional Uses as Permitted Uses, and some light industrial uses. Mr. Stitt suggested that it could be beneficial for the Commission to continue the Hearing, and allow the staff to consider whether the concerns that have been expressed at this meeting can be addressed in the pro- posed District so that a majority of the businessmen/residential property owners are satisfied that it is in their best interest. Mr. Stitt stated that he would welcome additional comments from members of the audience so that staff will have as much information as possible. Mr. Dennis Kelley again addressed the Commission, commenting on what he interpreted as a "threat" from Mr. Stone regarding whether West Adriatic would ever be fully dedicated and improved. Mr. Kelley reiterated his strong objection to rezoning of any residential area to commercial purposes; he stated this would be breaking faith with the people residing in the area. Mr. Apodaca also addressed the Commission again, stating that he is not concerned about what Denver does or does not allow, and hopes the Commission will take this into consideration. Mr. Apodaca also stated that he doesn't "give a hoot about uniformity", and stressed the uniqueness of the neighborhood. He expressed dislike for the attitude that the change in zon- ing is needed to "make quick bucks"; this isn't good for the neighborhood. 7 Mr. Quinney also readdressed the Commission, asking that if the Hearing is continued, and staff and Commission do consider modifications of the proposed B-3 District, could the re- strictions be modified to allow the landscaping operation which Mr. and Mrs. Guardado have so that they may use their land for this purpose. He stated that the proposed use would be screened to protect the residential uses; the storage would be trucks, flatbeds, sprinkler pipe, small tractors, dump trucks, tree spades, gravel, rocks, logs, etc. The property is now fenced with a six foot solid wood fence all the way around. Mr. Quinney stated that if the B-3 provi- sions could be amended to permit this operation, Mr. and Mrs. Guardado would be in favor of the proposal. Mr. Gerlick asked whether the landscaping operation as outlined by Mr. Quinney would be permitted under Section C 5 of the proposed B-3 District. Mr. Stitt stated that Section C 5 pertains to contractor's offices, some parking of small trucks overnight, and possibly some re- tail sales. The operation that Mr. Quinney has described is a storage yard, which is not the intent of the Section C 5. In response to a query from Mr. Shoop, Mr. Stitt stated that junk yards will not be permitted in the B-3 District; auto body repair will be permitted. Mr. Stitt pointed out that a great percentage of the land in this area is undeveloped or under-developed, and that any type of development will impact the residential area, but the intent is to avoid, wherever possible, negative impacts such as junk yards. Mr. Stitt emphasized that the Hearing has brought to everyone's attention the need to give closer consideration to ways of protecting the residential area, while providing reasonable uses for the commercial area on West Evans. Ms. Leonard asked how many properties are affected. Mr. Stitt stated that 25 letters were sent giving notification of the proposal; this included properties that are in the immediate area, not just those which are under consideration for possible rezoning. Mr. Schultz asked if anyone else wanted to speak to the Commission. No one else addressed the Commission. Gerlick moved: Tobin seconded: The Public Hearing on Case #4-92 be continued to July 21, 1992 at 7:00 P .M., to allow staff additional opportunity to work with the business and residential property owners, gather more information and input, and make modifications to the proposed B-3, if warranted. AYES: NAYS: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: Further, the Commission directs that Section E 1, Adult entertainment and service facility, be eliminated from the B-3 Regulations. Gerlick, Glynn, Leonard, Shoop, Covens, Draper, Schultz None Dummer None The motion carried. Ms. Tobin made note of the fact that Mr. Dennis Kelley and Mrs. Frances Shaffer were both members of the Housing Task Force, and that she was glad to see them take of their time to attend this meeting. 8 IV. REZONING B-2 to B-3 R-2-C to B-3 CASE 8-92 Mr. Stitt stated that this case is dependent on the approval of a B-3 Zone District, and sug- gested that this case also be continued to July 21, 1992. Gerlick moved: Tobin seconded: The Public Hearing on Case #8-92 be opened. AYES: Leonard, Shoop, Tobin, Covens, Draper, Gerlick, Glynn, Schultz None · NAYS: ABSENT: Dummer ABSTAIN: None The motion carried. Mr. Stitt entered into the record the Certification of Posting for 14 signs posting the properties for rezoning, and the Notice of Public Hearing which was published in the Englewood Herald · · on June 4, 1992. Covens moved: Tobin seconded: Case #8-92 be continued to July 21, 1992, and will be considered after Case #4-92 on that same date. AYES: NAYS: Shoop, Tobin, Covens, Draper, Gerlick, Glynn, Leonard, Schultz None ABSENT: Dummer ABSTAIN: None The motion carried. ********** A recess of the Commission was declared. The Commission reconvened at 8:45 P. M. v. ********** CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM 1993 -1997 CASE #7-92 Ms. Martin led discussion of the Capital Improvement Program, and the valuation system as- signed to the projects suggested by the members. Ms. Martin stated that some members classi- fied a feasibility study and the construction project as one "project", while others considered this to be two separate steps, and so rated it. This created some difficulty in assigning the val- uation points, and if members feel that projects are mis-rated, this can be changed. Discussion ensued. Mr. Schultz asked if members found the process as outlined by Ms. Mar- tin acceptable. Mr. Shoop stated that the process is acceptable, but suggested that a third page be added for notations and explanation. Mr. Stitt suggested that the format could be changed, with the rating each individual Commissioner gave a project eliminated, only the total points 9 assigned to a project shown, with a column for comments. This proposed format was accept-e able to the Commission. · Mr. Covens suggested that all ADA projects ·be grouped together. Discussion ensued. Final determination of the recommended Capital Improvement Projects is as follows: 1. Communications Center: The need for necessary -staff space and to accommodate the upgraded Computer Aided Dispatch system. 2. Computer Aided Dispatch System: Bring this operation up to State-of-the-Art. 3. Municipal Court Move/Parking: Needed space for staff/accommodation of new pro- grams. Give strong consideration to relocating this operation to present Library space. 4. Library Feasibility Study/Construction: Consider leasing of existing vacant space (Trolley Square, Cinderella City) prior to purchase/construction of new site/facility. 5. City Hall ADA: Needed to provide disabled/elderly access to all portions of City Hall. 6. Malley Center Expansion Feasibility Study/Construction: Support construction, but stress need for more discussion on the need for an indoor pool, and more definitive plans. 7. Parks ADA: Need for access for disabled children and adults to all parks areas and programs. 8. Recreation Center ADA: Needed access for disabled to all areas of recreation center. 9. U.S. 285 TSM: Needed traffic flow improvement, widening of Broadway Bridge. 10. Tri-Cities/Santa Fe Improvements: Needed improvements along Santa Fe Drive. All other projects would remain as previously ranked, that ranking in descending order as fol- lows: Cherrelyn Horsecar Shelter Golf Course Expansion Belleview Park Improvements (Page #13) Servicenter Storage Golf Clubhouse Expansion Centennial Lake Shoreline Belleview Zoo Move Belleview RR Expansion Regional Park Over/Underpass Upgrade City Hall Plaza Restrooms Tejon Fire Station Centennial Lake Parking The above listing and justification will be submitted to City Manager Fraser for his use in the budget process. 10 VI. DIRECTOR'S CHOICE Ms. Martin summarized action at the Executiv~ Session, and at the City Council meeting on June 15. Negotiations with two of the three employee unions have been underway. Agree- ment has been reached with the general employee's-union, and Ms. Martin felt confident that negotiations will progress satisfactorily with the Police Union. There was an economic devel- opment session specifically on Cinderella City, and new approaches to the ownership of the Mall were suggested. The Tri-Cities Intergovernmental Agreement was passed on first read- ing. Council also approved the transfer of $11,000 to the Community Development budget to finance Englewood's share for the consultant in conjunction with the Planning Group. Council approved the ACTS contract. The 1991 assessments for concrete construction/paving were presented, and a Public Hearing was scheduled on July 13. Surfacing of the tennis courts will be done this summer. The week of June 22 through June 26 has been declared Employee Appreciation Week, and volunteer members of all Boards and Commissions are considered as employees, and are invited to attend an ice-cream social to be held on June 26 beginning at 3:00 P.M. on the south lawn of City Hall. Spouses are also invited. Tentative designs for the Broadway Park improvements are available for perusal by members following closure of the meeting. vn. COMMISSIONER'S CHOICE. Mr. Glynn asked what progress has been made on the formation of "focus groups" and revi- sion of the Comprehensive Plan. Mr. Stitt stated that this has not been dropped or forgotten, but we are engaged in the Budget preparation process now and the "vision process" hinges on the budget. Mr. Stitt stated that the process as has been considered thus far will be very intense for the first 12 months. Were the staff and Commission to undertake .this process with no outside assistance (consultants/facilitators), the time commitment from both staff and Commission members would be staggering. Discussion ensued. Ms. Tobin suggested the use of college students who want to get credits in the process. Mr. Stitt stated this would be explored, and if people who have the training and ability can be found, they would be considered. Mr. Stitt stated there is a need to go out into the community to find out what the issues are. He emphasized this is a different approach to get community involvement in the process. Ms. Martin stated that several communities in Colorado have done the "visioning process", among them Ft. Collins, Loveland, and Greeley, and that all of the communities have very distinct recommendations on the process. They all had someone assist in identifying the issues, and rarely used staff or Planning Commissioners in conducting the focus group meetings. Ms. Martin pointed out that the entire process will involve a considerable amount of money, and a lot of staff time. Ms. Martin assured the Commission they will be kept apprised of progress in the budgeting process to finance this visioning process. There being nothing further to come before the Commission, the meeting was declared adjourned at 9:45 P. M. 11