Erie Town Council Meeting - September 10, 2024

The Town Council of Erie met on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at 7:27 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Justin Brooks with a quorum present (Councilors Bell, Brooks, Baer, and Salvis; Mayor Pro Tem Laughlin and Councilor Hoback absent). The agenda was approved after two items were pulled from the consent calendar for general business.

Consent Calendar

• Remaining Consent Items Approved Unanimously: Resolutions for approval of August 27, 2024 meeting minutes (24-428), cancellation of meetings (24-400), Colliers Hill development agreement amendment (24-415), and other routine actions were adopted by roll call (4-0).

Public Comments & Testimony

• Andrew Moore (3130 Steven Circle N) requested immediate release of the 2023 financial reports, citing the delayed audit as eroding public trust. He noted that only 2022 reports are currently available and that candidates need the data before the November election.
• John Mortalero (1732 Southard St) expressed concern about proposed comprehensive plan density increases (high-density maximum rising from 20 to 37.5 units per acre with 12% affordable housing) and asked that the comp plan not be brought to a vote before the November election, given that all council seats are up for election.
• Lori Sain (Weld County Commissioner) introduced the 60 Plus Rides senior transportation program, a volunteer-based, zero-cost service that provides rides to medical appointments, grocery stores, and social events. She highlighted the need for a comprehensive transportation solution for seniors aging in place.
• Matt McLaughlin (1366 German Court, Kenosha Farm) reported parking and noise problems from Erie Youth Football League games at Crescent Park. He measured noise levels of 80-90 dB at property lines, exceeding the town code's 55 dB limit, but the code exempts town-permitted events. He requested a safety study and clarification of the exemption.

Discussion Items

1. Resolution 24-129 – Police Department Expansion and Remodel Design Services (D2C Architects)

Councilor Salvis pulled this item from consent. He questioned the $1.9 million design fee (out of a $3.8 million budget for the project) and the total construction cost of $33.5 million. He expressed concern about funding via Certificates of Participation (COPs) rather than a voter bond, especially given the town's capital fund pressures. Chief Mathis testified that the police department is outgrown (48 sworn officers in a facility built for 50, evidence room 2/3 full) and needs expansion as soon as possible. Councilor Baer defended the process, saying council had approved the budget in April and that this was a contract to begin design. Staff stated the design will take 11-12 months, with construction starting in fall 2025. The resolution was approved 4-0.

2. Resolution 24-128 – Town Hall Interiors Agreement with BC Interiors

Councilor Salvis also pulled this item. He questioned whether the $340,000 would be used for the new addition only or also for future renovation of the existing building. Staff confirmed the full amount is for furniture in the addition, with some existing furniture being reused. A future amendment will cover the renovation phase. The motion passed 3-1 (Salvis voted no).

3. 90 Second Celebration Video – Cole Creek Park Award

The town received a 2024 Starverse Award from the Colorado Lottery for best use of lottery dollars. The video highlighted the park's splash pad, accessible playground, and year-round ice rink, partly funded by a $555,956 grant.

4. Hispanic Heritage Month Proclamation

Councilor Baer sponsored the proclamation designating September 15 – October 15, 2024 as Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month. Kat Hazel, DDEI Training Coordinator, shared personal reflections on her Hispanic heritage. An upcoming celebration will be held at Cole Creek Park on September 22.

5. Update on 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and Audit

Finance Director Sara Hancock and auditors from CliftonLarsonAllen presented. The state granted an extension to September 30, 2024 due to staff turnover and the need to compile year-end information with new processes. The audit will yield a clean opinion. Two preliminary findings were noted: one on internal controls (trial balance adjustments needed) and one on federal awards (lack of documented suspension/debarment checks—a repeat finding). Staff are implementing corrective actions. The final report will be presented in October.

6. Advisory Board Biannual Reports (Abbreviated Summaries)

• Tree Advisory Board: Reported on Arbor Day/Earth Day event (600 attendees, 150 trees given away), school outreach to 5 schools (150 students), tree walks, and ongoing incentive programs (residential rebate of $200, HOA cost-share up to $15,000). Councilor Bell noted the HOA cost-share program is underutilized.
• Historic Preservation Advisory Board (HPAB): Chair Mike Turner updated on efforts to landmark the Eagle Mine, pursue a Certified Local Government grant for 25 properties, and create a historic district in Old Town Erie. A railroad history grant was turned down; they will reapply in 2025.
• Open Space and Trails Advisory Board (OSTAB): Chair Ken Martin discussed Prairie Run open space (Boulder County) and the Boulder-Erie Regional Trail (BERT). Prairie Run includes trailheads, fishing piers, and connectivity to Erie trails. BERT's draft master plan was presented to Boulder County; alignment options are being finalized. Planning for trailhead parking and sidewalk connections is ongoing.
• Sustainability Advisory Board: Board member McKenzie McClaskey reported on Earth Day success, spring cleanup (mattress/tire recycling), and EcoCycle’s Green Star Schools program (1,210 participants, 67% diversion rate). Upcoming events include leaf composting and EcoToberfest. The board seeks to add a household hazardous waste pickup for mobility-limited residents and to support native pollinator habitats.
• Airport Economic Development Advisory Board: Liaison Julian (staff) presented. The board is negotiating a new FBO lease with Vector Air, evaluating redevelopment of the closed crosswind runway, updating the airport economic impact study, and planning a 2026 air show. A grand entrance concept at County Line and Arapahoe Roads (estimated $8 million in 2022) would improve safety and trail connections. The community survey showed strong support for airport investment.
• Planning Commission: Chair Tim Burns highlighted land use reviews, comp plan updates, and UDC amendments. The commission is working on internal training and may present at the APA conference. Councilor Salvis suggested streamlining minor applications so they do not require dual hearings. The commission’s terms extend to 2028.

7. Staff Report – Settlement of Water Court Case with City of Boulder

Town Manager Fleming reported that the town settled Water Court Case 20CW3053, securing 340 acre-feet of dedicated storage in Boulder Reservoir and protecting water quality in Panama Reservoir, which is upstream of Erie’s future infiltration wells. He called it a significant win for the town.

Key Outcomes

• Resolution 24-129 (Police Design Services) – Approved 4-0.
• Resolution 24-128 (Town Hall Interiors) – Approved 3-1.
• Hispanic Heritage Month Proclamation – Adopted.
• Audit Update – Noted; final report due by September 30.
• Water Court Settlement – Received as information; staff commended.
• Advisory Board Reports – Received and filed.
• Upcoming Events – Campus cleanup day (Sept 14), homecoming parade (Sept 20), Hispanic Heritage Festival (Sept 22), and others noted in council member announcements.