Regular Meeting 4/14/2026

Updated 11 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

Call to Order (00:00:01)
The Avon Liquor Licensing Authority meeting is officially called to order.

The chairperson officially calls the meeting to order, signaling the start of the Avon Liquor Licensing Authority meeting.
Roll Call (00:00:10)
Attendance is taken to ensure a quorum is present for the meeting.

A roll call is conducted where each member of the authority confirms their presence, ensuring that enough members are present to conduct the meeting's business.
Approval of Agenda (00:00:26)
The agenda for the meeting is reviewed and approved by the members present.

The members are asked if there are any changes to the posted agenda. Hearing none, a motion is made and seconded to approve the agenda as posted. The motion is passed unanimously.
Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest (00:00:46)
Members disclose any potential conflicts of interest related to agenda items.

Members of the authority are asked to disclose any conflicts of interest or ex parte contacts related to the quasi-judicial hearing or other agenda items. One member mentions potential social contacts but nothing substantial is disclosed.
Public Comment (00:01:36)
Opportunity for the public to comment on matters before the Avon Liquor Licensing Authority.

The chair opens the floor for public comments related to the Avon Liquor Licensing Authority. Instructions are given for both in-person and online participants, but no public comments are made.
Quasi-Judicial Public Hearing: Special Events Liquor Permit (00:02:06)
A public hearing is held for a special events liquor permit for the Avon sustainability fair.

The hearing is opened for a special events liquor permit application by the Town of Avon for its sustainability fair. Presentations and reports are given on the permit application, including public notice postings and background checks. The permit is for offering fermented malt beverages at the event. No public comments were received, and the staff report indicates compliance with requirements.
Council Discussion and Decision on Special Events Liquor Permit (00:04:06)
The council discusses and votes on the special events liquor permit application.

Council members discuss the special events liquor permit application. Questions are asked about the event details and beer serving arrangements. A motion is made to approve the permit application, which is seconded and passed unanimously.
Adjournment of Avon Liquor Licensing Authority Meeting (00:07:14)
The Avon Liquor Licensing Authority meeting is officially adjourned.

The chairperson officially adjourns the Avon Liquor Licensing Authority meeting after all agenda items have been addressed.
Call to Order: Town Council Meeting (00:07:34)
The regular meeting of the Town Council is called to order.

The chairperson calls to order the regular meeting of the Town Council, marking the start of the council's proceedings.
Roll Call: Town Council (00:07:52)
Roll call is conducted to verify attendance of Town Council members.

The Town Council members announce their presence as roll call is conducted to ensure a quorum for the meeting.
Approval of Town Council Meeting Agenda (00:08:04)
The agenda for the Town Council meeting is reviewed and approved.

The Town Council is asked if there are any proposed changes to the agenda. A motion is made to approve the agenda as posted, and it is passed unanimously.
Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest: Town Council (00:08:37)
Town Council members disclose any potential conflicts of interest for the meeting.

Council members are asked to disclose any potential conflicts of interest or ex parte contacts related to the agenda items. One member discloses a meeting with a sales team but confirms no conflict exists.
Public Comment: Town Council (00:09:49)
The public is invited to comment on Town Council matters not on the agenda.

The chair opens the floor for public comments on any topic not on the agenda. Instructions are given for in-person and online participants. Two members of the public come forward to speak on separate issues.
Response to Public Comments (00:16:14)
Town staff respond to public comments regarding the Avon Rec Center and construction dust.

Council and town staff respond to public comments, providing updates on the Avon Rec Center pool project and addressing concerns about dust from construction activities. Town Manager Eric Heil explains the project's delay and cost challenges, and discusses efforts to ensure contractors mitigate construction dust.
Consent Agenda Approval (00:20:11)
The Town Council reviews and approves the consent agenda items.

The consent agenda includes meeting minutes and planning and zoning commission appointments. A motion is made to approve the consent agenda, which is seconded and passed unanimously after brief discussion.
Wildland Fire Preparedness Presentation (00:21:54)
A presentation on wildland fire preparedness and mitigation efforts is given to the Town Council.

The Town Council receives a detailed presentation on wildland fire preparedness, including updates on evacuation protocols, mitigation efforts, and coordination with regional partners. Chief Greg Daly, Public Works Director Mike Jackson, and representatives from the Eagle River Fire Protection District provide information on planning, siren testing, and community programs aimed at enhancing fire safety.
Public Comments on Wildfire Mitigation Efforts (00:35:02)
Discussion on wildfire mitigation projects in the Town of Avon, including fuel break initiatives and evacuation route planning.

The council discussed various wildfire mitigation efforts undertaken in the Town of Avon, highlighting the creation of fuel breaks, partnerships with Eagle River Fire, and leveraging grant dollars to enhance fire safety. Key projects included the June Creek fuel break designed to protect evacuation routes, efforts at Wild Ridge, and a study in the West Avon Preserve focusing on ecological impacts and fire prevention. The collaboration with various fire departments and the introduction of new resources such as a mini hand crew were also discussed.
Discussion on Emergency Access and Evacuation Plans (00:59:24)
Review of emergency access routes and evacuation plans in case of wildfires, including infrastructure and public alerts.

The meeting covered detailed plans for emergency access and evacuation during wildfires. Discussion included maintaining the June Creek emergency access route, the use of Knox boxes for gate access, and the coordination between fire departments and law enforcement for effective evacuations. The importance of public alerts and the use of EC Alert system was emphasized, as well as the challenges of evacuating areas like Wild Ridge and the need for efficient traffic management during emergencies.
Short-Term Rental Policies and Amendments (01:05:57)
Presentation on proposed amendments to short-term rental policies in various planning areas.

The council considered amendments to short-term rental policies, focusing on planning areas A, C, D, and J. The discussion revolved around the limitations and allowances of short-term rentals in these areas, referencing municipal code definitions and potential changes. The aim was to ensure clarity in the policies governing short-term rentals and align them with the town's strategic goals.
Public Hearing on Tra Creek Development and Ordinance (01:09:02)
Public hearing and discussion on the Tra Creek development ordinance and related amendments.

The council conducted a public hearing regarding the Tra Creek development, focusing on the ordinance amendments and the implications for vested rights and community housing. The discussion included public comments, responses from Tra Creek representatives, and council deliberations on the development bonus, short-term rental regulations, and other key issues related to the development. The meeting aimed to gather public input and finalize the council's stance on the proposed ordinance.
Discussion on Short-term Rental Overlay and PUD Amendments (01:09:12)
The council discusses amendments to the short-term rental overlay, PUD language, and regulations affecting town core and PUD areas.

The meeting discusses the short-term rental overlay, amendments to PUDs, and regulations differentiating between town core and other areas. Avon created an overlay for short-term rentals, but it only applied to regularly zoned areas. For PUD areas, language had to be checked individually, and amendments were made to allow short-term rentals in some PUDs. Further refinement was considered with proposals for tiered regulations, focusing on town core areas. Language was adjusted to simplify and align with the municipal code while addressing terminology and regulation clarity.
Discussion on Vested Property Rights and Related Amendments (01:15:01)
The council discusses conditions and language related to vested property rights and rights extension tied to certain developments.

The council discusses vested property rights, focusing on the mountainside vested property rights extension language and related triggers. The language in the packet was adjusted to clarify conditions precedent for rights extension, which involves legal agreements and conveyances tied to the East Avon Preserve alignment. The council considers the complexity of the process, the need for funding before development, and the criteria for certifying completion of conditions precedent.
Community Housing and PUD Guide Discussions (01:21:06)
The council discusses community housing provisions in the PUD guide, vested rights, and legal implications regarding takings and property rights.

The meeting addresses community housing within the PUD guide, including the classification of hotels and workforce housing obligations. The discussion emphasizes the complexity of vested rights and takings law, particularly in relation to community housing requirements. The council considers the legal implications of imposing additional community housing requirements beyond what is stipulated in the PUD guide and how vested rights protect certain developments from increased obligations without compensation.
Public Comments and Council Deliberations (01:30:09)
The council invites public comments and deliberates on the presented applications and amendments, considering approval or denial.

The meeting opens the floor to public comments, where community members express concerns and support for various agenda items. The council deliberates on three main alternatives: approving the applications as presented, approving with modifications, or denying them based on conflicts with review criteria. Discussion includes references to the packet materials, criteria for decision-making, and the implications of different approval routes.
Questions and Clarifications on Meeting Topics (01:32:03)
Council members ask questions for clarification on topics discussed, focusing on community housing, development bonus, and water conservation.

Council members seek clarification on several issues including community housing compatibility, the development bonus process, and water conservation measures. Questions are raised about the implications of planning areas, criteria for development bonuses, and the integration of the town's water conservation regulations with local districts. The discussion aims to ensure council members have a clear understanding of the meeting topics and their implications.
Deliberations on Development Bonus and Short-term Rentals (01:34:43)
Council deliberates on the development bonus process and short-term rental regulations, seeking clarity on language and implications.

The meeting continues with deliberations on the development bonus process, including notification requirements and planning area considerations. Discussions also cover short-term rental regulations, focusing on the implications of language changes in the PUD guide and how they relate to the municipal code. Council members seek to ensure that changes align with council intentions and community needs, and consider the flexibility required for future updates.
Short-Term Rental Overlay Map Update (01:45:58)
Discussion on updating the short-term rental overlay map to reflect PUD guide amendments.

The Town of Avon's short-term rental overlay map will be administratively updated by the community development staff to reflect the PUD guide amendments approved tonight. It was emphasized that the map is not intended to be legally substantive but to be reflective of what has been approved.
Short-Term Rental Conditions and Licensing (01:47:58)
Discussion on conditions and licensing for short-term rentals, including limits and resident-occupied licenses.

The council discussed the limitations on the number of short-term rental licenses, especially outside the town core, and the conditions under which these licenses are granted. There was mention of properties purchased by people from the front range and the appropriate amount of short-term rental use, such as allowing rentals for eight weekends in winter and summer. Resident-occupied short-term rental licenses were also discussed, which have different requirements and lower fees.
Planning Area Questions and Updates (01:51:16)
Questions and updates on various planning areas, including building height and other amendments.

Updates were provided on several planning areas. For number six, engineered grade had no questions. Number seven, regarding commercial square footage, was withdrawn. Number eight involved moving building height in planning area A. Additional questions were raised about the PUD master plan and ordinance references.
Vested Property Rights and Infrastructure (01:55:05)
Discussion on vested property rights, infrastructure, and water tank milestones.

The council reviewed the vested property rights extension and the complex infrastructure requirements, particularly for water. Milestones include determining pressure zones and the location of water tanks. The discussion involved ensuring that the necessary infrastructure is in place, like roads and water lines, to support future development.
Public Comment on PUD Amendments (02:07:01)
Public comments on PUD amendments focusing on housing needs and short-term rentals.

Several members of the public commented on the PUD amendments, expressing concerns about the adequacy of community housing provisions relative to the scale of development and the impact of short-term rentals. Suggestions included ensuring meaningful housing contributions, considering inclusionary policies, and addressing the community's housing crisis.
Public Comments on Short-term Rental Permits (02:23:56)
Discussion on residential and commercial STR permits, responsibilities, and potential loopholes.

The speaker raises questions about who can obtain a residential versus a commercial STR permit, the mechanisms in place to verify eligibility, and the responsibilities of the town, applicant, or developer in monitoring compliance. Concerns about potential loopholes and consequences for illegal use are also mentioned. The role of the DRB and its impact on projects in Traer Creek, particularly related to community housing, is discussed.
Public Comments on Community Housing and Development (02:26:04)
Public concerns about delays, unit counts, AMI levels, and development bonuses.

Amy Phillips expresses concerns about potential delays in the DRB process for community housing and emphasizes the need for clarity on unit counts and AMI levels. She discusses the importance of development bonuses in achieving more community housing and suggests better notification and collaboration between the town and Traer Creek.
Public Comments on Development and Density Issues (02:30:03)
Concerns about density, compatibility with neighborhood, and impact on local resources.

A homeowner from Eagle Bend Drive raises concerns about the CH1 lot, its compatibility with the neighborhood, and density issues. The potential impact on resources such as water, fire, police, and transportation is highlighted. Suggestions for alternative locations for employee housing are made.
Public Comments on Community Impact and Development Strategy (02:33:40)
Discussion on development strategy, community impact, and focus on smaller projects.

Roger, a resident of Eagle Bend, appreciates the efforts put by the council but emphasizes the need to focus on smaller, more understandable projects rather than large-scale developments. Concerns about the town's image and the importance of maintaining its appeal to guests and residents are discussed.
Council Deliberations on Community Housing (02:37:47)
Council members discuss the appropriateness of CH1 and CH2 for community housing.

Council members express differing opinions on the suitability of the CH1 and CH2 lots for community housing. Concerns about density, height, and compatibility with the neighborhood are discussed. The potential benefits of partnering with organizations like Habitat for Humanity are considered.
Council Deliberations on Development Bonuses (02:48:28)
Discussion on the implementation of development bonuses and community benefits.

Council members discuss the merits of development bonuses as a tool to gain additional community housing or public benefits. Concerns about potential misuse and the need for proper notification and community involvement are emphasized. The importance of aligning development bonuses with community goals is highlighted.
Council Deliberations on Short-term Rental Overlay (02:53:30)
Debate on expanding the STR overlay district and its impact on community housing.

Council members debate the proposal to expand the short-term rental overlay district beyond planning area A. Concerns about prioritizing visitor lodging over community living and the potential negative impact on local housing availability are raised. The need to balance STR use with community housing goals is discussed.
Discussion on Community Housing Plan (03:00:05)
A detailed discussion on funding and building community housing including ADA compliance and affordability issues.

The meeting began with discussions on the need to fund and build community housing projects. There was a consensus that the discussion is complex, involving ADA compliance and affordability issues. The revised language for the project in question was agreed upon.
Short Term Rentals and Tax Revenue (03:03:24)
Debate on the impact of short-term rentals in the community and their contribution to tax revenues.

The council debated the role of short-term rentals (STRs) in the community, with opinions divided on their benefits. While some argued that STRs could increase tax revenue and promote community housing, others worried about the effects on local affordability and community identity.
Public Comments on Housing and Rentals (03:09:05)
Public comments highlighted concerns over housing costs and the proliferation of short-term rentals.

During the public comment period, residents expressed their concerns about the rising costs of housing and the impact of short-term rentals on the community. Some residents noted that the cost of new homes was beyond the reach of locals, and there was a call for more local developer incentives.
Updates to Community Housing Plan (03:19:25)
Plans to update the community housing strategy were discussed, with a focus on zoning and work sessions.

The council discussed plans to update the community housing plan over the summer, with a focus on zoning issues and a work session to address the interaction between housing and short-term rentals. The goal is to find a balance that benefits the community.
Review of Avon Development Codes (03:23:23)
Discussion on the objectives of Avon development codes and their role in community planning.

The meeting reviewed the purposes of the Avon development codes, focusing on the planned use of land, protection of the environment, and investment value preservation. There was a consensus on the importance of these codes in ensuring high quality of life and appropriate land use.
Vesting Rights and Property Development (03:27:04)
Complex discussion on vested property rights and performance investing in development projects.

The council engaged in a complex discussion about vested property rights and performance investing related to a specific development project. Concerns were raised about the complexity and potential benefits of the project, with some members expressing a desire for more clarity and public benefit.
Final Comments and Deliberation (03:31:02)
Council members gave final comments on the PUD amendment application, with some opposition noted.

In the final comments section, council members expressed their positions on the PUD amendment application. While some members supported the amendments, others voiced opposition due to perceived insufficient public benefit and complexity. The need for more public involvement and benefit was emphasized.
Motion and Vote on Ordinance (03:41:15)
Motion to approve the ordinance with noted changes was prepared for a vote.

The council prepared to vote on the ordinance that would approve the PUD amendments. The motion included several changes discussed during the meeting, and a summary of these modifications was presented before the vote.

Town of Avon (18 Videos)

Updated 11 days ago

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