Regular Meeting 2/24/2026

Updated 8 days ago

The council meets twice monthly, on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month.

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

Roll Call (00:00:07)
Council members present are Miguel, Chico Thuon, Tamara Underwood, Ruth Stanley, and Gary, with remote attendance from Councilor Brooks.

A roll call was conducted to establish the presence of council members. It was noted that Councilor Brooks was attending remotely, and all votes would be by roll call.
Approval of Agenda (00:01:09)
The agenda was approved without changes after a motion and roll call vote, despite technical difficulties with Gary's audio.

The council moved to approve the agenda. There were some technical difficulties with Gary's audio, but these were resolved, and the agenda was approved by roll call vote.
Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest (00:01:57)
Council members were asked to disclose any conflicts of interest or ex parte contacts related to the agenda items for a quasi-judicial hearing.

The council was asked to disclose any potential conflicts of interest or ex parte contacts, particularly given the quasi-judicial nature of the hearing. One member disclosed receiving public notices.
Public Comment (00:03:32)
Public comments were invited on any topic not on the agenda. Jason Boston, a candidate for Eagle County Sheriff, presented his candidacy and vision.

The council invited public comments on topics not on the agenda. Jason Boston, a candidate for Eagle County Sheriff, spoke about his candidacy, his experience, and his vision for the sheriff's office. Public participation was encouraged both in person and via Zoom.
Consent Agenda (00:09:18)
Discussion on the consent agenda, including building code updates and a question about Appendix D of the international fire code.

The council discussed the consent agenda items, focusing on authorization to prepare building code updates. A question was raised about including Appendix D of the international fire code in the scope of work, which limits cul-de-sacs and has fire marshal support.
Quasi-Judicial Public Hearing (00:12:00)
A continued public hearing on PUD amendments with presentations from staff and applicants, focusing on planning areas and vested rights.

The council reopened the quasi-judicial public hearing to discuss amendments to the PUD. Staff and applicants presented changes to planning areas, community housing plans, and vested rights extensions. Council deliberations and public comments were part of the proceedings.
Discussion on Indirect Benefits of Housing Developments (00:40:40)
Discussion on how local housing developments like Bosque and Piedmont indirectly benefit the community.

The discussion centered around the indirect benefits that housing developments such as Bosque and Piedmont provide to the community. Although these developments do not contribute significantly through property taxes, the residents spend money locally, benefiting the area's economy. The analysis of these benefits had been somewhat superficial, and it was suggested that there should be more in-depth consideration of these indirect contributions.
Emphasis on Real Estate Transfer Fees (00:41:50)
Focus on the importance of real estate transfer fees and their community impact.

The meeting discussed the role of real estate transfer fees in generating revenue for the community, especially in relation to condo projects. There was a debate about whether properties not generating such fees are less integrated into the community, but it was emphasized that all residents contribute to community stability regardless of their property's tax status.
Introduction to Amendment Package (00:42:56)
Overview of the amendment package and its history with Town of Avon.

An introduction was given to the amendment package, which had been reduced from previous versions. The package has a history with the Town of Avon, and efforts have been made to incorporate feedback from the Town Council and the Eagle Bend neighborhood. The simplified proposal aims to address concerns while maintaining beneficial items.
Community Housing Development Discussion (00:43:38)
Discussion on community housing development and zoning changes for housing.

The discussion focused on facilitating community housing development through joint applications and zoning changes. Specific planning areas are being rezoned to allow for community housing, and there was a commitment to providing build-ready sites with utility access. Collaboration with Habitat for Humanity was also mentioned as a way to develop affordable housing.
Short Term Rentals and Zoning Changes (00:46:43)
Consideration of short-term rental allowances in specific planning areas.

The meeting considered adding short-term rentals as a use by right in certain planning areas, with unlimited rentals proposed for area A. The discussion noted that these areas are zoned for mixed use and are consistent with other areas that allow short-term rentals. The town's parking requirements would still apply.
PUD Amendments and Planning Area Changes (00:48:54)
Review of Planned Unit Development amendments and specific planning area changes.

Amendments to the PUD were reviewed, including changes to planning areas and the impact on height and density regulations. The focus was on simplifying the presentation of engineered grade and clarifying the impact on specific planning areas such as A, C, D, and J. The changes aim to align with town-approved infrastructure improvements.
Community Housing Supplemental Regulations (01:01:03)
Detailed discussion on community housing regulations and income parameters.

A detailed discussion on community housing supplemental regulations took place, focusing on the income levels required for housing eligibility and the flexibility needed to accommodate different AMI levels. The conversation included the rationale behind setting specific income thresholds and the challenges of funding affordable housing projects.
Discussion on Community Housing Requirement (01:18:10)
Discussion on reducing community housing units in CH1 and facilitating with amendment, focusing on PUD amendment goals.

The council discussed the reduction of community housing units on CH1 as part of a facilitation with an amendment. There was a conversation about the rezoning of land that currently doesn't allow residential uses and the major changes this would bring as part of the PUD amendment. The aim is to meet community housing requirements and make the necessary numbers work.
Permit Development Bonus for Community Housing and Projects (01:19:38)
Item 4 discusses permitting development bonuses for community housing and other projects, requiring council approval to demonstrate benefits.

The council moved to item number four on the agenda, which involves permitting a development bonus scenario for community housing, economic stimulus, and civic public enhancement projects. This bonus is allowed under the current code and needs to mirror into the PUD process. It requires coming to the council and demonstrating one of the three benefits for such a bonus. The Avon municipal code details the development bonus process.
Short Term Rental Scheme Clarification (01:24:50)
Discussion on Avon's two-tier short term rental scheme allowing limited licenses, with clarifications sought on memo details.

The council addressed questions on the two-tier short term rental scheme in Avon, which allows limited licenses. There was a need to clarify details not explicitly stated in the memo regarding how the scheme is structured and operates.
Engineered Grade for Building Height Measurements (01:25:32)
Clarifying the engineered grade to establish baseline for building height, with focus on planning areas A and D.

The discussion focused on clarifying the existing engineered grade to establish a baseline for building height measurements in planning areas A and D. The objective is to ensure there is a clear benchmark from which building height is measured, avoiding any ambiguities caused by previous disturbances in the area.
Planning Area Boundary and Setback Clarifications (01:35:05)
Clarification on planning area boundaries and setbacks, particularly the configuration of East Beaver Creek Boulevard and railroad corridor.

The council discussed planning area boundaries, focusing on how East Beaver Creek Boulevard serves as a setback from the railroad corridor. Clarifications were sought on the current and permanent road configurations and the implications for planning area A.
Vested Rights Extension Request (01:43:11)
Request for extension of vested rights for mountain side development, focusing on infrastructure plans and financial necessity.

A detailed presentation was given on the request for extension of vested rights concerning the mountain side, specifically RMF1, PAK, and PAJ. The discussion included infrastructure plans, financial requirements, and how the extension aligns with both the project's and town's interests, particularly regarding community housing and public infrastructure.
Discussion on International Fire Code and Consent Agenda (02:00:13)
Discussion regarding the inclusion of Appendix D of the International Fire Code in the consent agenda and the implications for cul-de-sac dwelling unit limitations.

The meeting included a discussion on whether to adopt Appendix D of the International Fire Code into the scope of work, especially considering the consent agenda. There was a question about the dwelling unit limitation on a cul-de-sac and whether to adopt the existing language ambiguously as it is in the PUD amendment. It was clarified that the international fire code has not been adopted by the town and therefore does not currently apply.
Discussion on East Avon Preserve Development Plans (02:04:02)
A detailed discussion on the future development of East Avon Preserve, including infrastructure needs and prioritization of projects.

The council discussed the future of East Avon Preserve, considering potential development and infrastructure needs. With existing projects in progress, it was noted that even if water was available, development would depend heavily on the establishment of a regional housing authority and additional funding. There are ongoing projects at Avondale Apartments, CH one, Slope side, and other parcels being acquired. The discussion also covered preliminary plans from the engineering firm hired to look at the zones, and the council considered how these plans fit into the broader development timeline and resource allocation.
Public Comment on Vested Rights and Development (02:27:01)
Public comments were made regarding concerns about vested rights, density, and the impact of proposed developments on existing infrastructure and community.

During the public comment period, residents expressed concerns about the proposed development plans, particularly regarding vested rights, density, and the impact on existing infrastructure. Specific concerns were raised about the prioritization of development projects, the town's financial responsibilities, and the implications for community resources. Residents urged the council to deny certain amendments and extensions until more tangible progress on existing commitments is made.
Public Comment on PUD Amendment (02:36:48)
Residents express concerns regarding the PUD amendment, focusing on broken promises, density, and trust issues with the developer.

Several residents voiced their opposition to the PUD amendment, highlighting issues such as broken promises, shifting commitments, and increased density. They argued that the proposed changes do not represent a compromise but rather a recalculation to preserve profitability, affecting the community's trust in the developer. Concerns were raised about the impact on nearby properties, particularly regarding building heights and reduced open space.
Discussion on Water Tower and Housing Development (02:40:07)
The council discusses the water tower project and its impact on planned housing developments, considering options for community growth.

Council members discussed the sophistication of the water tower project for the hillside and how it relates to housing developments. There was a focus on the addition of new housing areas and the need for diversity in housing types. Concerns were raised about visual changes and the potential doubling of town size, with a call to avoid overly dense urban developments. The importance of community engagement and thoughtful planning was emphasized.
Developer and Staff Comments on PUD Amendment (02:43:14)
Developers and town staff discuss the PUD amendment, emphasizing changes and the collaborative process to benefit the town.

Developers and town staff presented their views on the PUD amendment, noting that many comments from previous meetings have been addressed. They highlighted the collaborative effort with the town to create a beneficial plan. The complexity of the master plan was acknowledged, and the developers expressed their belief in the give-and-take nature of the development process, emphasizing that the plan addresses community needs and would positively impact the town.
Online Public Comments (02:47:14)
Online participants express concerns about future amendments to the PUD, focusing on process transparency and public involvement.

An online participant raised questions about the process for future amendments to the PUD, particularly concerning height and density changes. They emphasized the need for a public process in any future amendments and expressed concerns about signing documents that circumvent fire codes. The importance of maintaining public involvement and transparency in the amendment process was highlighted.
Staff Response to Public Questions (02:49:48)
Town staff explain the process for future PUD amendments, ensuring public hearings and planning commission involvement.

Town staff responded to questions about the process for future PUD amendments, clarifying that any requests for changes would undergo a similar process to the current one, with public hearings by the planning commission and town council. Staff explained that any requests for development bonuses would be reviewed case-by-case, with consideration of public benefits and impacts.
Council Deliberation on PUD Amendment Items (02:53:20)
Council discusses the community housing regulations and the proposed CH1 and CH2 parcels, focusing on benefits and impacts.

The council deliberated on the community housing supplemental regulations and the CH1 and CH2 parcels. They considered the benefits of incorporating community housing into the town and discussed potential impacts on neighboring properties. There was a general consensus on the importance of community housing, but differing opinions on specific parcels and proposed changes.
Further Deliberation on Housing and Education Use (03:00:06)
Council debates the appropriate use for CH1, weighing community housing against potential educational uses.

The council continued deliberations on the appropriate use for the CH1 parcel, with some members advocating for maintaining educational uses due to proximity to existing educational facilities. Others argued for community housing to meet current needs. The discussion reflected a balancing of immediate housing needs with long-term educational planning.
Discussion on Development Bonus Language (03:11:00)
The council discusses the inclusion of development bonus language in the PUD, aiming for consistency with town policies.

Council members discussed the proposal to include development bonus language in the PUD, aiming to align it with existing town policies. They debated the potential for creative site design and the need for clear guidelines to ensure fair application of bonuses. Concerns were raised about the potential for bonuses to be used as a backdoor for previously rejected items, emphasizing the need for transparency and public benefit.
Short Term Rental Request (03:16:56)
Discussion on permitting short-term rentals in various planning areas with concerns about impact on community and local residents.

The meeting addressed the request to permit short-term rentals in planning areas A, C, D, and J. Some members expressed concerns about the potential for these areas to become dominated by short-term rentals, which could negatively impact the local community and housing availability for residents. There was a debate about the percentage of short-term rentals allowed and whether limitations should be imposed to maintain community character. The discussion highlighted the tension between economic benefits from tourism and the preservation of neighborhood values.
Clarifying Engineered Grade for Building Height (03:30:20)
Consideration of establishing engineered grades for determining building heights in planning areas A and D.

The council discussed clarifying the engineered grade to be used as a baseline for measuring building heights in planning areas A and D. This is due to changes in land grading and infrastructure, such as new roads and the need to connect with existing railroad grades. The goal is to ensure accurate height measurements that comply with zoning regulations.
Setback from Railroad South Property Line (03:32:48)
Deliberation on the setback requirements from the southern boundary of the Railroad South property line.

The discussion focused on zoning recommendations related to the setback from the Railroad South property line. Members considered neighborhood compatibility and the impact of building heights and setbacks on the local environment and community. Some members expressed concerns about maintaining a balance between development and preserving local character.
Administrative Subdivision Process for Northern Hillside (03:40:55)
Review of the administrative subdivision process for planning area K's northern hillside.

The meeting included a review of the proposal to treat the administrative subdivision process for the northern hillside of planning area K similarly to how it is handled on the valley floor. Concerns were raised about ensuring all changes in the PUD guide are highlighted and deliberated appropriately to avoid unintentional amendments.
Vested Rights Extension (03:47:07)
Discussion on extending vested rights tied to the funding of water tank infrastructure for phased development.

The council considered a proposal to extend vested rights based on the funding of water tank infrastructure, which is crucial for phased development in the area. Members debated the timing and triggers for such extensions, considering the impact on community development, infrastructure readiness, and long-term benefits. Some members highlighted the need for precise language in the agreement to ensure clarity and accountability.
Discussion on Water Authority Compliance (03:59:55)
Council discusses the need for more nuanced triggers in agreements with Upper Eagle Regional Water Authority.

The council members discuss the need for more nuanced triggers in the agreements with the Upper Eagle Regional Water Authority. They express concerns about the current triggers being too simplistic and discuss the possibility of including more detailed compliance measures. The discussion also touches on the easement through planning area J and the importance of the major facilities agreement with the water authority.
Formal Action on Application (04:05:25)
Council considers approval, denial, or continuance of an application, focusing on nuanced triggers and vested rights.

The council considers taking formal action on an application, discussing whether to approve, deny, or continue it. Council members express a preference for approving with conditions, particularly refining nuanced triggers and vested rights. They emphasize the importance of working with the water authority and ensuring the application reflects council's concerns. The discussion includes the possibility of setting a date for a second reading and public hearing.
Bluegrass Music Festival Proposal (04:15:22)
Council hears a proposal for a Bluegrass Music Festival, discussing logistics, dates, and community impact.

Danita, the chief cultural officer, presents a proposal for a Bluegrass Music Festival to be held in October. The festival aims to bring high ROI to the Town of Avon through community engagement and tourism. The discussion includes logistical details such as fencing, portable restrooms, and ticket pricing, as well as the festival's potential to become a signature event. Council members express enthusiasm and support for the event, highlighting its potential benefits to the local economy.
Council and Mayor Comments (04:29:10)
Council members share updates and comments on various topics including composting and public engagement.

During the council and mayor comments section, various council members share updates and thoughts on different topics. One member highlights the launch of a curbside residential compost program by Vail Valley Waste. Another member discusses the positive engagement with local youth during a recent field trip to the council chambers. The council expresses appreciation for community collaboration and engagement.
Executive Session Announcement (04:33:16)
Council announces an executive session to discuss property acquisition for community housing.

The council announces its intention to enter an executive session to discuss matters related to property acquisition for community housing. They clarify that no decisions will be made during the executive session and that they will adjourn from the meeting room upstairs after the session concludes.

Town of Avon (18 Videos)

Updated 8 days ago

This playlist includes Avon-related videos, including town council meetings, candidate forums, community meetings and more.