Regular Meeting 9/23/2025

Updated about 13 hours ago

The Avon Town Council is the policy-making legislative body for the town. It consists of seven elected members and a mayor elected by the council. The council meets twice monthly, on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:00)
The Avon Town Council meeting is called to order for Tuesday evening.

The meeting is officially called to order by the presiding officer, marking the beginning of the Avon Town Council session for Tuesday evening.
Roll Call (00:00:09)
Roll call is conducted, and it is noted that Councilor Kevin Hyatt is absent.

The roll call is performed to ensure quorum. Present members include Chico Thuon, Rich Carroll, Tamra Underwood, Gary Brooks, Ruth Stanley, and Lindsay Hardy. Town Attorney Nina Williams participates remotely. It is recorded that Kevin Hyatt is absent.
Approval of Agenda (00:01:32)
The agenda for the meeting is approved without any changes.

The council discusses the agenda for the evening. No changes are suggested. A motion is made and seconded to approve the agenda as presented. The motion passes unanimously.
Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest (00:02:08)
Council members are asked to disclose any conflicts of interest related to agenda items.

The presiding officer asks if any council members have conflicts of interest or potential conflicts concerning the items on tonight's agenda. No council members disclose any conflicts.
Public Comment (00:02:27)
Public comments are welcomed on any topic not on the agenda. Several community members express concerns and suggestions.

The council opens the floor for public comment. Citizens discuss various issues including the potential removal of the Lakeside Cinema from the budget, traffic concerns due to church parking on Highway 6, and a voter registration drive. The council listens and provides responses or guidance on how to address these concerns.
Introduction of Public Works Director (00:12:27)
Mike Jackson is introduced as the new Public Works Director.

The Town Manager introduces Mike Jackson as the recently hired Public Works Director. Mike Jackson greets the council and provides a brief introduction about his background and experience in the valley.
Consent Agenda (00:13:23)
The consent agenda is approved, including the revised minutes reflecting attendance corrections.

The council reviews the consent agenda, which includes meeting minutes from a prior session. Corrections were made to reflect accurate attendance. A motion is made and seconded to approve the consent agenda. The motion passes unanimously.
Resolution on Eagle River Water and Sanitation District Ballot Measure (00:14:23)
Resolution supporting the Eagle River Water and Sanitation District's ballot issue 6A is discussed and approved.

The council considers a resolution to support a ballot measure for funding regional wastewater facility upgrades through a general obligation bond. The resolution is discussed, with public comments supporting the measure. A motion is made and seconded to approve the resolution, which passes unanimously.
Discussion on Water Monitoring and Future Plans (00:31:51)
Council discussed monitoring water usage, future improvements, and the possibility of programming water cups to catch issues sooner.

The council members discussed the current monitoring of water usage and tracking where water is going. There was a conversation about whether there is a way to catch water issues earlier, within a month rather than three months. Suggestions included programming water cups to help with this.
Community Housing Fund and Program Revisions (00:32:34)
Revisions to the community housing fund were discussed, including moving funds from the ME Hop Pro program to the ME Casa Good Deeds program.

The council discussed final revisions to the community housing fund. Due to an increase in activity in the Good Deeds and ME CASA programs, funds are being reallocated from the ME Hop Pro program to the ME CASA Good Deeds program. Questions were invited from the council members.
Budget and Financial Reports (00:35:00)
The budget discussion covered various topics, including parking fees, elevator repairs, and the addition of new events.

The council had a detailed discussion on various budget items. This included the rec center parking fees imposed through a mobile pay system, repairs to the town hall elevator doors that were shutting too quickly, and budget adjustments related to an extra men's downhill ski event.
Public Hearing and Comment on Second Amendment (00:36:02)
A public hearing was held for the second amendment, but no comments were received from the public either in person or online.

The council opened the floor for public comments on the second amendment. Despite invitations for input both in person and online, no public comments were received. The hearing was closed after confirming no attendees wished to speak.
Council Discussion and Deliberation (00:36:33)
Council members discussed the need to improve monitoring of water usage issues to prevent delays in detection.

During the council's discussion, members expressed frustration over a water usage issue that could have been detected sooner. There was an emphasis on improving communication and monitoring systems to catch such issues before they become significant.
Resolution Approval (00:38:00)
The resolution was moved, seconded, and approved with a vote of six to zero, with all present voting in favor.

Council member moved to approve the resolution, which was seconded by another member. The resolution passed with unanimous approval from all present council members, with a vote tally of six to zero.
Personnel and Budget Report by Town Manager (00:38:54)
The town manager presented a detailed report on staffing, budget allocations, and financial projections for the upcoming fiscal year.

The town manager provided a comprehensive report on personnel changes, budget allocations, and financial projections. Key points included the addition of new uniform workstations, budgeting for new positions, and anticipated increases in health insurance costs. The manager emphasized the importance of maintaining competitive salaries and benefits to retain staff.
Departmental Goals and Budget Alignment (01:00:08)
Departmental goals were reviewed, focusing on new projects, policies, and budget alignment for the upcoming year.

The council reviewed and discussed departmental goals, which include new projects, policies, and their alignment with the proposed budget. The goals focus on enhancing service delivery and community engagement while maintaining fiscal responsibility. The town manager highlighted the need for strategic planning and resource allocation to achieve these objectives.
Library Expansion Discussion (01:05:53)
Discussion on the potential expansion of the Avon library, highlighting the need for modern libraries that offer more than books.

The meeting discussed the potential expansion of the Avon library, the busiest branch in the Eagle Valley Library District. The expansion aims to transform the library into a modern facility offering more than just books and computers, emphasizing goals, planning, and collaboration with governmental entities.
Historic Preservation Initiatives (01:06:44)
Plans to preserve historic structures and equipment related to ranching and railroad in the Avon area were presented.

Staff presented ideas for preserving historic ranching and railroad structures and equipment in the Avon area, ensuring that these cultural assets are maintained for future generations.
Composting and Recycling Efforts (01:07:11)
The town is moving forward with composting initiatives and reinforcing recycling compliance, including education and ordinance adoption.

The town is advancing composting initiatives and has adopted a recycling ordinance, focusing on education and promoting town-wide compliance. Efforts are underway to reinforce these initiatives and enhance community participation.
Geothermal Feasibility Study (01:08:29)
Discussion on the submission of a grant application for a geothermal feasibility study to explore potential energy solutions.

The meeting covered plans to submit a grant application for a geothermal feasibility study, aimed at exploring sustainable energy solutions for the community.
Single Use Plastic Ban (01:08:38)
Efforts are underway to coordinate a single-use plastic ban with neighboring towns, aligning with Vail's initiatives.

The town is considering a single-use plastic ban, aligning its efforts with Vail's regulations. Discussions with Vail continue to ensure synergy in regulations and implementation.
Reservoir Renaming and Software Implementation (01:09:20)
Renaming Benchmark Reservoir to Nottingham Lake was discussed, along with implementing software for tracking public record requests.

The council discussed renaming Benchmark Reservoir to Nottingham Lake in state records and implementing software to efficiently manage and track public record requests.
Financial Projections and Budget Planning (01:09:47)
Ongoing work on long-term financial projections and multi-year budget setups was highlighted, focusing on the Village at Avon's impact.

The finance committee is working on long-term financial projections, focusing on the significant impact of the Village at Avon. Staff is developing multi-year budgets and capital improvement plans based on recent studies.
Timeshare Amenity Fee Research (01:10:34)
Research on standardizing timeshare amenity fees across properties in Avon is underway to ensure uniformity and fairness.

The town is researching the potential for a standardized timeshare amenity fee, replacing individual agreements with a uniform tax across all timeshare properties to enhance fairness and consistency.
Cybersecurity Enhancements (01:11:16)
Efforts to strengthen the town's cybersecurity posture were discussed, addressing frequent cyber attacks.

The council discussed the importance of strengthening the town's cybersecurity measures, highlighting the frequent cyber attacks and the critical role of IT in protecting against external threats.
Housing Initiatives and Water Planning (01:11:29)
Community housing initiatives are being prioritized, alongside planning for a new water tank to support future developments.

The community development department is focusing on several housing initiatives, including inclusionary zoning and mobile home protection. Plans for a new water tank north of Maverick to support future developments were also discussed.
Community Housing Plan Update (01:12:55)
An update to the Avon Community Housing Plan is underway, incorporating achievements and new strategies.

The Avon Community Housing Plan is being updated to reflect completed actions and outline new strategies for addressing community housing needs. This update aims to provide a comprehensive snapshot of current and future housing efforts.
Recreation Center Goals (01:15:36)
The recreation center aims to develop standard operating procedures and achieve staff certification in park and recreation management.

The recreation center is focused on developing standard operating procedures and ensuring staff obtains certified park and recreation certificates. Collaboration on park planning is also a priority.
Police Department Initiatives (01:16:07)
The police department is working on implementing an automated vehicle identification system and security cameras in the town core.

The police department is focused on implementing an automated vehicle identification system and deploying security cameras in the town core to enhance public safety. These initiatives are contingent on approval and ongoing council discussions.
Public Works and Mobility Planning (01:18:02)
Public works is enhancing mobility and improving facility efficiency, including heat recovery systems and preventative maintenance.

Public works is focusing on mobility enhancements and facility efficiency improvements, such as optimizing the heat recovery system and implementing preventative maintenance planning based on reserve studies.
Renewable Diesel Research (01:19:49)
Research into renewable diesel for the town's fleet is ongoing, with potential benefits for bus operations.

The town is researching renewable diesel options for its fleet, assessing the potential benefits and challenges of integrating this fuel type, especially for cold climates and bus operations.
Capital Improvement Projects (01:23:00)
Updates on capital improvement projects, including the public works garage and recycling center, showcasing sustainable development.

The council received updates on capital improvement projects, highlighting the completion of the all-electric public works garage and successful styrofoam recycling initiatives, emphasizing sustainable development and community partnerships.
Aquatics Center Refurbishment (01:31:51)
Plans to refurbish the aquatics area at the recreation center include system replacements and a new water slide.

The refurbishment of the aquatics area at the recreation center will involve replacing HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems, and installing a new water slide. The project aims to modernize the facility and enhance visitor experience.
Discussion on Town Amenity and Reserve Funds (01:36:29)
Discussion on town's recreation and community center as a core amenity, considering using reserve funds for improvements.

The council discussed the significance of the town's recreation and community center as a key amenity that contributes to the town's identity. There was consideration of using a portion of reserve funds for its improvement.
West Beaver Creek Bridge and Drainage Deck (01:36:55)
Updates on West Beaver Creek bridge project, including safety improvements and project timeline.

Council members provided updates on the West Beaver Creek bridge and drainage deck project, emphasizing safety improvements such as railing modifications and the project's overdue status. Thanks were given to staff for securing grant funds.
Eagle Bend Park Development (01:38:26)
Progress on Eagle Bend Park development, expected completion this year with growth anticipated in the spring.

The development of Eagle Bend Park is progressing well, with completion expected later this year. The council hopes for good growth and integration into the community by spring.
Avon Road Pedestrian Safety Project (01:38:44)
Introduction of pedestrian safety improvements on Avon Road, with quick project turnaround expected.

The Avon Road pedestrian safety project is underway, with a contractor known for fast work. The engineering department has conducted pre-construction meetings, and activity is expected to begin soon.
Discussion on Various Town Projects (01:39:04)
Overview of various town projects including parks, open spaces, streets, and utilities work.

An overview of ongoing and upcoming town projects was provided, including work on parks, open spaces, streets, parking, and utility systems. Some projects are deferred to the next year, but there is a significant amount of work planned.
Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) Preview (01:40:01)
Preview of the Capital Improvement Plan, focusing on major projects like the aquatics center and pedestrian mall.

The council reviewed a preview of the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), highlighting large projects such as the aquatics center expansion and the pedestrian mall. Discussion included project prioritization and the impact of construction timing on the town.
Temporary Alcohol Display Ordinance (01:50:08)
First reading of an ordinance to restrict temporary alcohol displays in Avon, limiting to two end caps per store.

The town clerk presented an ordinance to limit temporary alcohol displays in Avon to two end caps adjacent to permanent displays. The ordinance aims to address concerns about unfair market advantages and public safety.
Slope Side Conceptual Design Presentation (01:59:08)
Presentation of the final conceptual design for the Slope Side housing project, including site layout and project timeline.

The community development director presented the final conceptual design for the Slope Side housing project. The design includes a linear layout of buildings, one parking space per bedroom, and considerations for snow storage and recycling locations.
Discussion on Grant Funding for Design Infrastructure (02:09:03)
Council discusses potential grant funding for design infrastructure, challenges with current funding cuts, and the need to be shovel ready.

Council members discuss the possibility of applying for grant funding to support design infrastructure and construction projects. It is noted that the State of Colorado is pulling back on funding, presenting challenges. The need to be 'shovel ready' to qualify for grants is emphasized, and they plan to collaborate with Ulysses to move forward. There are upcoming grant rounds that might be pursued if eligibility requirements are met. The council also considers potential upgrades to infrastructure like the underpass crossing.
Presentation from EB Studios (02:11:45)
Matt from EB Studios discusses the conceptual design process, challenges, and feedback received to improve project designs.

Matt from EB Studios presents on the process of developing and refining conceptual designs. He highlights the importance of feedback and collaborative efforts to achieve a design that balances density with aesthetic appeal. The presentation covers how early designs were met with criticism and how adjustments were made to create a village-like feel. He explains the distribution of units to avoid a wall-like appearance and the integration of feedback to enhance the project.
Council Discussion on Conceptual Design (02:20:51)
Council expresses approval of the design progression, discusses parking and waste management, and praises the collaborative efforts.

The council members discuss the progression of the conceptual design, expressing satisfaction with the improvements and the design's alignment with Avon's character. The discussion includes considerations for additional recycling and waste facilities, with suggestions for potentially more locations. The council members appreciate the collaboration and the design's evolution, noting its functional and aesthetic improvements over time.
Presentation on Village at Avon Planning Areas A and B (02:25:15)
Matt Peel presents an update on the planning and developments in Areas A and B, including infrastructure and potential future developments.

Matt Peel provides an update on the planning areas A and B of the Village at Avon, detailing ongoing earthwork and infrastructure developments. He outlines the phases of development, including plans for residential and retail spaces, the introduction of a grocer, and the construction of pedestrian and bike pathways. The presentation emphasizes the importance of infrastructure in facilitating future developments and financial outcomes for the town.
Motion to Accept Final Slope Side Conceptual Design (02:25:17)
Council moves to accept the final slope side conceptual design and direct staff on rezoning and lot replats.

A motion is presented to accept the final slope side conceptual design, which includes directing staff to prepare applications for rezoning the easterly parcel to community housing high density one and to replat two lots into one. The motion is seconded and approved unanimously by the council.
Introduction and Presentation by JX from Kensington (02:39:11)
JX introduces himself and gives an update on the development of the first phase, including the Whole Foods project and future plans.

JX, representing the development of the first phase, provides an update on the status and plans for the Whole Foods project and other developments. He mentions the timeline for approvals and site work, as well as plans for retail and residential spaces. The hope is to start development in June or July, and the project includes Whole Foods, retail pads, and condominiums. Future phases may include more retail, housing, and amenities.
Discussion on Development Phase Details and Elevations (02:47:02)
The council discusses details of the development phases, including parking, elevations, and the impact of the railroad tracks.

The council and JX discuss the details of the development's phases, focusing on the elevations, parking structures, and the impact of proximity to railroad tracks. They talk about the design challenges and plans for creating a community-friendly environment with retail and residential spaces.
Infrastructure and Engineering Review (03:03:03)
Council reviews the coordination and review process for engineering plans related to infrastructure and utilities.

The council discusses the review process for engineering plans, including water, sewer, and storm facilities. They ensure that the town reviews all plans in coordination with relevant authorities and utilities. They express concerns about the timing of submissions and approvals but confirm that the process is being handled diligently.
Public Comments: Geothermal and Refrigeration Considerations (03:08:52)
Lindsay suggests considering geothermal energy for refrigeration in grocery stores to align with goals and enhance marketing.

Lindsay proposes that the council consider using geothermal energy for the refrigeration needs of grocery stores. She argues that this could be a great marketing strategy and would align with the environmental goals of Avon. She emphasizes the potential benefits and requests the council to consider this option.
Scope of Avon's Review of Private Development (03:09:21)
Eric clarifies the limited scope of Avon's review on private development, emphasizing administrative review for public infrastructure.

Eric provides a reminder to the council and the public regarding the scope of Avon's review for private development projects. He explains that while public infrastructure and subdivision plating meet certain criteria and are reviewed administratively, Avon PNZ does not have approval authority over private development. He notes that any zoning changes or amendments that require a PUD must be reviewed by the council.
Public Comments and Concerns (03:11:03)
Public comments are made about the development's focus on summer amenities and the importance of water features.

A member of the public, Charlie, comments on the need to focus on summertime amenities, such as water features, to attract visitors year-round. He emphasizes the importance of planning for future climate and economic changes.
Public Hearing: Automated Vehicle Identification System (AVIS) for Speed Enforcement (03:11:10)
The council opens a public hearing on using AVIS for speed enforcement, considering ordinance and policy directions.

The public hearing is formally opened to discuss the authorization of using an Automated Vehicle Identification System (AVIS) for speed enforcement in Avon. The discussion includes the ordinance under Colorado statute to bring the AVIS system into town and the policy direction for its implementation. The mayor introduces the two prongs of discussion: the ordinance approval and the policy scope for implementation.
Presentation by Police Chief Greg Daly on AVIS (03:13:03)
Chief Daly presents two key questions: approval of AVIS for speed cameras and implementation locations, emphasizing pedestrian safety.

Police Chief Greg Daly presents the council with two questions: whether to approve the implementation of speed safety cameras (AVIS) in Avon, and where to implement them if approved. He details the use of AVIS for enhancing pedestrian safety due to past vehicle-pedestrian accidents and highlights potential areas for camera installation based on safety needs.
Council Comments and Questions (03:14:03)
Council members express excitement and concerns about the development, focusing on Whole Foods and design aspects.

Council members express excitement about the Whole Foods project but raise concerns about certain design aspects, such as the building orientation and walkability. They suggest improvements for sound mitigation and environmental sustainability, including potential geothermal energy use.
Discussion on Proposed AVIS Corridors and Locations (03:20:12)
The council discusses proposed AVIS corridors, including Avon Road, Highway 6, and Nottingham Road, with considerations for safety.

The council discusses the proposed corridors for AVIS implementation, which include sections of Avon Road, Highway 6, and Nottingham Road. Chief Daly explains the rationale for each location, citing pedestrian safety and accident statistics. The discussion includes whether to extend certain corridors, such as adding school zones, and the practicalities of enforcement. The council considers extending the corridor areas to ensure comprehensive coverage and safety.
Ordinance Discussion on School Zones and Traffic Cameras (03:40:03)
Discussion on extending school zone ordinances and placing traffic cameras to improve safety. Considerations included corridor boundaries and ordinance language.

The council discussed the current ordinance related to school zones and the proposed placement of traffic cameras to enhance safety in school areas. The conversation focused on the need to extend the boundaries of the designated corridors to include more areas where speeding is a concern, especially near schools. The ordinance's language was debated to ensure it adequately covered the areas intended for the new safety measures.
Ordinance and Implementation of Automated Vehicle Identification System (04:09:15)
Discussion on the ordinance to authorize automated vehicle identification systems for traffic control and public safety, focusing on implementation scope and locations.

The meeting discussed the implementation of an ordinance to authorize the use of automated vehicle identification systems on major roads in town to enhance traffic control and safety. The council debated the initial scope of implementation, which includes placing cameras in specific high-traffic areas. The conversation included concerns about public safety, the potential impact on local traffic behavior, and the administrative challenges regarding the issuance of citations. Council members expressed the importance of public safety over revenue generation and emphasized the necessity of evaluating the program's effectiveness over time.
Approval of Ordinance Amendments and Implementation (04:28:01)
The council voted to approve the amendments to the ordinance and the initial implementation scope for the automated vehicle identification system.

The amendments to the ordinance were approved, which included specifying the locations for the initial implementation of the automated vehicle identification system. The council agreed on the placement of cameras and the importance of monitoring the program's impact on public safety and traffic management. There was consensus that the ordinance should not have an expiration date, with updates to be provided by the town manager.
Public Safety and Traffic Management Discussion (04:28:08)
Discussion on public safety measures and traffic management strategies, including signage and community education.

The council discussed additional measures to improve public safety and traffic management, such as installing signs to emphasize pedestrian priority and enforcing speed limits. Concerns were raised about the potential clutter of signage and the need for effective communication to residents and visitors about traffic regulations. The council also considered creative approaches to signage and community education to promote pedestrian safety.
Council and Mayor Comments and Updates (04:29:16)
Council members provided updates on various topics, including upcoming meetings, events, and personal remarks.

Council members shared updates on recent and upcoming meetings with local organizations, such as the Vail Valley Art Guild and transportation planning efforts. Personal remarks were also made, including a council member's upcoming absence due to a personal trip, and a reminder about the Special Olympics Polar Plunge event. The importance of community events and initiatives was highlighted, along with expressions of gratitude for successful local events and improvements.