PEC Meeting 11/24/2025

Updated 1 day ago

The Planning and Environmental Commission (PEC) generally meets on each month's second and fourth Mondays at 1 p.m.

This volunteer board of the Town of Vail is responsible for reviewing planning and environmental issues within the town. The Planning and Environmental Commission (PEC) generally meets on each month's second and fourth Mondays at 1 p.m.

Chapters

Welcome and Roll Call (00:00:00)
The meeting was called to order with a welcome to all attendees and roll call. Commissioners Hagadorn, Jensen, Hanlin, and RedR were noted as present.

The meeting of the Town of Ails Planning and Environmental Commission was called to order, with a welcome extended to everyone present. Roll call was conducted, confirming the presence of Commissioners Hagadorn, Jensen, Hanlin, and RedR.
Recusal of Commissioner Hagadorn (00:00:25)
Commissioner Hagadorn recused himself from the meeting due to a conflict of interest, stating he could not be impartial on the items discussed.

Commissioner Hagadorn announced his recusal from the meeting, citing an inability to remain impartial regarding the agenda items. This was discussed prior to the meeting, and his recusal was noted, leaving three commissioners to continue the meeting.
Review of Conditional Use Permit (00:00:49)
Discussion on a conditional use permit for the Sitzmark Lodge to allow an outdoor patio and address parking issues, including three proposed configurations for combining patio and parking space.

The main agenda item was the review of a conditional use permit for the Sitzmark Lodge, located at Vail Village Filing 1 Block 5-B Part of Lot A. The permit would allow for an outdoor patio at the lodge, with several configurations proposed to address parking and non-conforming use issues. Planner Heather presented details, including the need for revocable right-of-way permits for parking spaces that encroach on town property. The applicant, represented by Steve Sica, discussed the intention to enhance the area by providing outdoor seating for public use, improving the pedestrian experience and aligning with the town's master plan. The plan aims to balance parking needs with patio space, especially during special events when the area is closed to traffic. Questions from commissioners focused on the impact on parking, the use of the space during events, and the operational logistics for the hotel.
Temporary Parking and Loading Discussion (00:32:32)
Discussion on temporary parking arrangements, guest loading, and unloading needs during ski season and events, focusing on logistical challenges and seasonal adjustments.

The discussion revolved around the necessity for temporary parking arrangements for loading and unloading guests at a hotel during the ski season. The conversation highlighted how larger vehicles with ski racks cannot fit into the garage, thus requiring the use of specific loading zones. The logistics of guest arrivals during town events, such as weddings and charity events, were also discussed, emphasizing the need for efficient communication with guests to manage parking and loading effectively.
Public Comments (00:39:35)
The meeting opened for public comments, but no one in the room or online chose to speak, leading to the closure of the public comment period.

The meeting was opened for public comments both in person and online. Attendees were invited to provide their input, but no one in the room came forward, and no hands were raised online. As a result, the chair closed the public comment period.
Commissioner Comments and Vote (00:40:37)
Commissioners discussed their support for the application, emphasizing its alignment with master plan goals and improvements to Vail Village. A motion to approve was passed unanimously.

Commissioners expressed support for the proposed application, noting its alignment with the goals of the Vail Village master plan and its potential to enhance outdoor vibrancy. The discussion included considerations of specific review criteria and the consensus that the proposed changes would benefit both locals and visitors. A motion was made to approve the application with conditions, which was seconded and passed with unanimous consent.
Vail Golf Club Gore Creek Enhancement Plan (00:46:26)
The plan aims to restore the Gore Creek ecosystem adjacent to the golf club by improving riparian vegetation, reducing erosion, and enhancing water quality. A recommendation for approval was sought.

The Vail Golf Club Gore Creek Enhancement Plan focuses on restoring and enhancing the creek's ecosystem as it passes through the golf course. Key goals include reducing chemical use, increasing biodiversity, and stabilizing stream banks. The plan proposes various scenarios to improve riparian buffers and floodplain connectivity. Changes included reducing tree removals and adjusting tee box locations to balance ecological and recreational needs. The plan aligns with the Gore Creek Strategic Action Plan by aiming to restore the creek to support sensitive species and improve overall water quality.
Discussion on Flood Plain Expansion in Gore Creek Area (01:04:05)
Discussion on potential flood plain expansion and creek modifications like boulders to manage flow and sediment.

Members discussed expanding the flood plain in the Gore Creek area and potential modifications to the creek such as adding boulders to break up straight flows. The discussion included preliminary designs and the possibility of incorporating boulders and pools as the design becomes more detailed. There was also a mention of tree removals and replacements to minimize shading issues.
Concerns About Sand and Sediment in Gore Creek (01:05:49)
Concerns were raised about sand deposition and sediment movement in Gore Creek, especially near Ford Park Reach.

The meeting addressed concerns about sand being deposited in the Gore Creek stretch near Ford Park Reach. It was noted that the creek moves a lot of material, which can cause problems downstream. A project is being designed to capture sediment using woody materials and snags, with support from Trout Unlimited and Parks and Wildlife.
Pollution and Storm Water Runoff Concerns (01:08:58)
Discussion on stormwater runoff from roads contributing to pollution in Gore Creek, and potential solutions.

Concerns were discussed regarding stormwater runoff from the South Frontage Road and the interstate contributing to pollution in Gore Creek. The town has stormwater infrastructure mapped, but the lack of real estate for bioswales and wetlands means more engineered solutions are needed. The town is looking into stormwater treatment devices for high-pollution areas.
Public Comment on Agenda Item (01:12:09)
Opportunity for public comment on the discussed agenda item, but no attendees provided input.

The meeting opened for public comment on the discussed agenda items, but there were no attendees willing to provide comments either in person or online.
Commissioner Comments and Support for Environmental Initiatives (01:13:24)
Commissioners expressed support for the environmental initiatives aimed at enhancing the health of Gore Creek.

Commissioners discussed the importance of the environmental initiatives for improving Gore Creek's health. There was a consensus on the need for these initiatives and their potential positive impact on both the creek's health and the golf course. The collaboration between stakeholders was praised, and the commission agreed to support the plan.
Motion for Recommendation to Vail Town Council (01:17:34)
Motion made to recommend approval of the Gore Creek enhancement plan to the Vail Town Council.

A motion was made for the Planning and Environmental Commission to forward a recommendation for approval of the Gore Creek enhancement plan to the Vail Town Council. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes (01:18:19)
Minutes from the previous meeting were reviewed, with minor amendments proposed and approved.

The minutes from the previous meeting were reviewed. Two minor amendments were proposed by Commissioners Hanlin and Jensen. Discussion ensued on the process of creating minutes and potential improvements using AI transcription tools. The minutes were approved with the proposed amendments.
Adjournment (01:24:22)
The meeting was adjourned after all agenda items were addressed.

Following the completion of the agenda, a motion to adjourn the meeting was made and seconded. The motion passed, and the meeting was adjourned.

Town of Vail (80 Videos)

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This playlist includes town of Vail-related videos, including Town Council, DRB, PEC, LHA, annual community meetings, candidate forums and more.